Life of a Homeschooling Mom

Friends..........

2011-10-04T20:19:00.005-04:00

So today I've been thinking about some of the friends I have and have had in my life. Over the years, as do many people, I have come to make so many friends. Not just aquantances, but true friends. Some of my friends I barely speak to anymore, either because of our lives being so busy, or because of moving. Some of my friends, I've just met within the last couple of years but I feel like I've known them forever. You know, those people that have such a compassion and love that you feel it in their smile!
I met a friend like that recently. My husband was pastoring a church in the mountains and I met her through a homeschooling co-op group. From the first time I met her I knew that she was a unique and wonderful person all around. This young lady, was a true follower of Jesus.
Now, growing up you always hear about people from other denominations and are told that you shouldn't be close friends with them, due to too many differences. The thing I have come to realize is that is not so. A denomination can actually hinder a friendship that God wants to bring to pass. This friend of mine worships differently than me, but her life and her spirit is one of a true child of God. If you were to meet this friend of mine, you wouldn't even know the difference. She was there for me, when I needed someone not in our church to talk to. She was someone that I could talk to about anything and I felt that she wasn't condeming me or judging me. I KNEW that she was praying for me. I could feel her prayers. I will never forget this friend. Hopefully, we will still talk and keep in touch now that we have moved and are pastoring another church in a different area.
So what makes a friend? It's different for different people. One thing I know for sure, everyone enjoys being around someone that will listen with compassion. Someone who will pray for them and not spread rumors. A friend that they can trust to keep everything between them and God. It's nice to have friends in so many places. I thank God for the friends that I have. I thank God for the friendships that I will make. It feels so good to have true friends

Changes can be good....

2011-09-16T20:44:00.005-04:00

Well again, there have been changes in our household. My husband had to relocate and is now pastoring a different church closer to our hometown. Things seem to be so peaceful right now, which is so nice. I pray that everything will work out here until God's plan changes for us.
Due to these changes and the move we have not gotten to start school until the first of September. My wish was to start the first week of August. Oh well, life goes on!
This year we are doing things a little different, but I've come to realize that something is different each year. No two years are the same, but you know, that's ok! Thats a good thing about homeschooling, you can change the way you do things from year to year.
I don't always like homeschooling. Some days it's all I can do to get myself out of my comfortable bed before 9am to get started teaching two very active boys! But, I love my children, and I will make that sacrifice to do what needs to be done in order for my children to have a good education and upbringing. You know learning is more than just about academics. It's about life. It's about learning how to be responsible adults who love God and are willing to obey him in faith.
I'm glad I have that opportunity to shape two boys into two young men who will love God, their wife, and kids. That is the most important thing I can give my kids. Above all education or resources (which are important) I can put them in a place where their marriage will be less likely to fail and their kids will know they are loved.
My youngest son told me the other day that when he grows up he wants his kids to be homeschooled! It made my heart happy to hear that. It tells me that homeschooling has not been a horrible experience for him!
God is making some changes in my own life and I will share more about that later.

A Quilt Giveaway!

2010-10-06T13:48:00.003-04:00

Click on the heading of this post to go to the page!
They are giving away a great looking quilt. Go and check it out and enter to win!

For Today.....

2010-05-26T09:52:00.002-04:00

Outside my window... the sun has just really starting shining and the dew is still moist on the ground. Beautiful morning!

I am thinking... about how that many times we look to what others say as the truth instead of God's Word. We can all give an opinion but what does the Word say? Just because you respect someone doesn't always make them right.

I am thankful for... for my family and that we have an opportunity to serve God.

I am wearing... Still in my house coat! LOL

I am remembering... that I need to switch the clothes

I am going... to get changed and help my children with school.

I am currently reading... a study on healing

I am hoping... that the boys will behave in boys club tonight.

On my mind... nothing at this moment my mind is blank

Noticing that... my boys may actually get the school work done at a decent time today!

Pondering these words...supercalifragalisticexpialidocious

From the kitchen... dishes

Around the house... nice and cool

One of my favorite things~ the rain after a really hot day

Tea Cozy Giveaway!

2010-05-20T13:53:00.001-04:00

I just entered to win a Tea Cozy here http://bit.ly/dlPVzM and you should too! Ends May 30th!

Go to the link for more information! She has some really cute tea cozies!

How does life get so busy?

2010-05-07T18:02:00.002-04:00

It never ceases to amaze me that life is so busy sometimes. We all get in that rut. We do and clean, and help others, and organize...etc, busy busy.

Right now I'm sitting in the recliner doing nothing. That's right I said nothing. I'm actually enjoying it. Today we went to the local park to a field day with the local homeschooling group.

Since the last time I posted we have moved to the mountains to pastor a church. It has been so busy. I wasn't sure if there was going to be a homeschool group here because of the size of the town. There is! This group is a small christian group but I think it's great. We had more fun today than we have at some of the bigger group events back home.

The boys are going to camp next week so I've been working on getting everything done and them packed. AS I said busy busy. But I'm taking some mommy time and just relaxing (especially since I fell out in the yard and skinned up my knees. OUCH!)

I want to leave you with this inspiring little note written by a lady names Lori Flem. Take it to heart and think about it while you have the chance because you'll be too busy in 5 minutes.

I wonder how many of us miss the hungry HEARTS that greet us each morning across the breakfast table or silently long for us to convince them that they really are special to us and in the eyes of God? How easy it is to lose focus and scramble priorities. We get busy doing good things and miss one of the highest things God created us to attend to -- family.

God Bless
Jennifer

2010-01-10T16:27:00.002-05:00

FOR TODAY...
Outside my window... the boys are playing with their remote control cars on the porch because the snow is everywhere...it's cold and the parking lot is full of snow

I am thinking... how nice it is that there is peace in the house right now

I am thankful for... for my family and my friends who support me

I am wearing... A jean dress with cotton pants underneath because it's cold. Can't see the pants but it keeps my legs warm.

I am remembering... that the dog needs to go out

I am going... to fix my husband supper in just a little bit

I am currently reading... God's Generals

I am hoping... that this evening will be peaceful too

On my mind... different families who have loved ones on their deathbeds right now.

Noticing that... our carpet needs to be vaccummed

Pondering these words...hmmm

From the kitchen... supper

Around the house... it's getting a little too warm in here

One of my favorite things~ the snow in the moonlight

Change is a comin!

2009-02-05T12:34:00.003-05:00

Sometimes I dread change. But other times I am happy to see change come. There seems to be a lot of change in our lives lately. I've seen the Lord draw me closer to him and seen him open doors for our family. Recently we made the decision to visit another church in our area. This was something, honestly, that was a long time coming. My husband just hasn't been happy where we are and even though we have been heavily involved in the ministries at our current church we felt almost held back from moving forward anymore than where we are. So I submitted to my husband and we started to visit one of the same denominational churches in our area. We felt a connection right away, but were still unsure if we neededto make a move. However, the pastor of that church had been praying for God to send a minister/couple to be the children's pastor there. It seems that the current one is going through a lot right now and is working on moving forward himself, so they were going to need one soon enough. The pastor asked my husband to pray about taking this position. We had accepted and are really looking forward to working with the children in that church. Meanwhile, we are having some troublesome conversations with our current church and it seems that they have been through a lot and some believe this is just a bad time. We couldn't think of a better time for God to move. So we are going to be leaving our current church and ministering as Children's Pastor at this new church. Pray for us!!!
Also, on a different note. I've lot 10 out of the 52 lbsthat I am trying to lose! I am very excited. This new church has an arobics class three days a week and I've been going. I've seen a difference and am so excited about the results! So there's what is going on with us. Please pray for us that we will be the best that we can be. Pray for our church family that they will understand and that they will see us off on a good note. Pray that no one will be bitter or angry with us and that we will feel welcome to bring our children to their VBS or attend a meeting there as well. This is very important to us as Christians that we work together with other churches in our community to grow the kingdom of Christ.
I pray that you all are blessed and haev a wonderful weekend!

God Bless,
Jenn

Inauguration Day

2009-01-20T15:46:00.003-05:00

Today is the day that our 44th President took the oath to "faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and to the best of his ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

These are very powerful words. Words which I wonder if the people who listen to them really understand just how powerful they are. No doubt this was a very historical event. President Obama is the first black man to take the oath of President in the history of the United States. I am thrilled that our country can overcome such obstacles to the level that they would be willing to vote a black man into the White House.

Now, I do not support all of President Obama's positions. As a matter of fact, this conservative republican did not vote for him based on the fact that his stance in many different areas went against what I believe as an evangelical Christian in the United States. There are many things that I am opposed to that Obama has on his agenda to put in place while in the White House. With that said, I do feel that America has come a long way in respect to race and hatred. No doubt there are still others out there who would rather see anyone but a black man in that position, but I have faith to believe that they are a minority rather than a majority.

Now that we have President Obama in this position, we need to pray for him. I felt a sense of urgency to pray for the President just now. He is coming into a lot of chaos and financial instability and the decisions that he makes these first few months are crucial to our stability in the US. Everyone get on your knees and pray for this man. The Bible says in 1 Timothy 2:1-4, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."
With that said I will leave you now and let you get down to business praying for the man that will lead our country for the next four years.

Jenn

There comes a time.....

2009-01-09T20:45:00.003-05:00

in every woman's life when she must rearrange her priorities in life. For me, that includes the internet. I've come to the realization that I'm spending way too much time on the internet with my wonderful friends. I love every lady that I have met and cherish the time that we have spent together but there comes a time when you have to say I'm not doing what I should be. I have found myself now even as I check my email during the day by habit clicking on the fellowship places that I have been in. It truly that become and addiction for me. I realized that God is not coming first place and neither is my family. I must set my priorities straight.

I think with stay at home moms there is a tendency to make internet relationships a priority without realizing it. You want some adult conversation. You need someone else that you can relate to, and even sometimes someone to talk to about all your problems. The problem is when you sharing it with everyone else EXCEPT the Lord you've got a problem. Face it ladies, if your spending more time on the internet than you are with your heavenly husband then you need to take a spiritual face lift. You need to look at yourself and ask yourself if you are putting your online relationships above God. I have been.

So, I will be here on occasion to check emails and do my online book study that I'm doing (which I would HIGHLY recommend and I'll tell you about that in a minute). I want to be the woman that GOD wants me to be. That journey has begun. I wondered why I haven't had the victory over all the depression that I have been through. It's because I'm leaning on the wondering love of all these precious ladies instead of the neverending, patient love of my Heavenly Father.

About this study that I am doing. Please go to www.donnapartow.com and click on the link to 90 days jumpstart online classes. It's only the first week so you have time to get into it! Already I have seen some things that must change in my life. The book is called Becoming the Woman GOD Wants Me To Be:A 90-Day Guide to Living the Proverbs 31 Life by Donna Partow. Please if you are thirsting for a better relationship with God, your husband, and or your children this is the study that will change your life. I guarantee it! Anyway, I probably won't be posting unless God leads me to while I'm on this journey but know that God has a perfect will for your life.

Oh and by the way, we didn't win the free rent but when the newsletter came out we found out that we won 2nd place and $100.00 off a months rent. SO GOD IS GOOD! AMEN?!?

God bless you always,
Jenn

The contest

2008-12-12T16:37:00.004-05:00

Our apartment manager announced a contest at our apartments. Whoever decorates the best will win free rent in January! I'm excited about this. I emailed the homeschool group I'm in and several people gave me things to put up. One person gave me EIGHT boxes of lights that change. HE used 3500 on his house and these were extras. He GAVE them to me! How nice! Others gave me garland, wreaths and Icycle lights. I havent' put up the icycle lights yet but I'll post another pic when it is all done. I just thought I would post a pic of what I have so far. I'm so excited! No one else has done their apartment quite as big as we have so I'm hoping that we win! Please pray for favor. It would really help us to be able to have that extra 475 to spend on other things coming up. We have the rent to January but it's just going to be tight. This woul really help. So without further ado....here arethe pics. The first one is the daytime view. The second is the nightime view.

Sometimes the road get a little tough.....

2008-12-03T23:02:00.003-05:00

But God is still faithful. I've had a lot on my mind recently. My husband and the ministry, our son that we miscarried at 18 weeks, and the fact that after my second child I did one of the biggest things that I will regret, I had a tubal ligation. Today, I wish I had never had it. I wish that I had just spoken up and said "NO I don't want it". But I was too scared of what everyone would think, I had been in so much pain and I had already told everyone that I was going to have it. That was the worse mistake of my life. Now I wish that I could have one more child. Actually I really would love to have six or seven but one would be a miracle. I have been so sad lately thinking about why I did that and the fact that I can't have them anymore. Unless the Lord intervenes, two is all I'll ever have. I ask everyone who reads this to pray for me. This is a hard thing to go through. I feel worthless as a woman. I feel that I have missed out on what all these other mothers have the privilege of having in their lives. I know that there is a reversal option out there but we can't afford it right now. So everyone pray for me that the Lord will help me to get through this rough time and that if the Lord will, that he would somehow choose to let me bear a child one more time, even amidst my ignorance and mistake. Thank you...I must go. I'm getting too emotional to be any good right now.

Jenn

Christmas time is coming

2008-11-28T12:08:00.003-05:00

I absolutely LOVE Christmas! I love the music and the lights and the fact that it celebrates the birth of our Saviour! So I'm very quick to go ahead and get all the Christmas decor up in my home after Thanksgiving, so I can enjoy the decorations longer. Thus I have redecorated my blog. I hope you like it! The songs are Celtic songs and I love the Celtic sound!

Jenn

Giving Thanks

2008-11-28T11:25:00.002-05:00

Well, it's the day after Thanksgiving and since I didn't get to be here yesterday I'll post today. I have many many things to be thankful for. Sometimes I don't always think about those things. But yesterday I didn't have the best thanksgiving that I ever had. Michael had to work. It was really hard being thankful yesterday when my other half isn't even able to spend time with his family on Thanksgiving. You see he doesn't usually have much time off so it would've been nice to spend that time with him. He had to go to work to feed 20 college kids dinner. I can understand, but I guess I just felt a little cheated. Oh well, because I'm just thankful that he had a job to go to. You see it was just about two months ago that his former job called him one morning and told him not to come in anymore. He didn't have a job anymore. So we went for about a month and a half without income. I looked for a job too in case something were to come open sooner for me. However, it didn't and God blessed him with another job. So I'm thankful that my husband had a job to go to. Also, I'm thankful that he will be getting holiday pay on top of what he made regularly yesterday. Which means for about 5hrs yesterday he'll be getting paid double of what he usually gets paid. That will help us out during this Holiday season. IT's amazing how these things work out. I'm also thankful that I had family to spend the time with. I could've been somewhere where no one was around and had to spen Thanksgiving with me and just the kids. Although that wouldn't have been terrible either. Anyway, what do you have to be thankful for? CAn you find something to be thankful for even if the circumstances aren't what you hoped for? I'm thankful that he will be getting a week off for Christmas and this extra pay will take care of the bills that would be effected by that week. Think of what you have not what you don't have and things always get a little bit brighter. They did for me!

Jenn

And the winner is...........

2008-11-14T21:32:00.004-05:00

Da da da DAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

mom_4_god! Yes you have WON this little boys sleep bag. Please email me with your information and I will get his out to you as soon as possible! Congratulations! I look forward to the next giveaway...so please subscribe to my blog and you'll find out about it when I start it!

Jenn

Another giveaway!

2008-11-14T13:24:00.003-05:00

I know that I've been posting a lot of giveaways lately but I just love them! I would like to share about another one. This one is on Daily Dose of Motherhood blog.http://http//dailydoseofmotherhood.blogspot.com/2008/11/giveaway.html
She is having a wickless candle giveaway! If you like candles but don't usually use them because of the hazard you might want to check these out!

PS: Don't forget about my own blog giveaway!

Jenn

Every once in a while.........

2008-11-12T13:15:00.002-05:00

I like to have a little giveaway of my own. I found this really cute little Carter's sleepbag. IT's for a boy and it's for sizes 0-9months. Carter's is one of the best in clothing for babies and children and I want to offer it in a giveaway for a special Mommy or Mommy to be.

If you want to be part of this giveaway here is what you must do.

1. Post a comment below telling me how you would use this. (whether you have a baby that size or expecting or as a baby shower gift)

2. Post about it on your blog or website (please include a link) and let me know in your post for an extra entry.

The winner will be picked on Friday Nov. 14th at 8pm. You don't have long so PLEASE comment fast! You can take the picture if you want to post it on your blog. God bless!

Jenn

Win this amazing quilt!

2008-11-11T10:01:00.002-05:00

This wonderful quilt was made in honor of her friend that donated her bone marrow to a stranger! She is offering one made just like it in this contest! Go and check out her blog and enter to win it! The Winner will be chosen on Nov. 14th! click on the picture of the quilt on the sidebar to go to her blog!

Another 100th post giveaway

2008-10-28T18:02:00.001-04:00

A lady named Kim is having a 100thpost giveaway on her blog! Go check it out and get your name in! Her giveaway looks likea good one! You don't wantto miss this!

http://simple-needs.blogspot.com/2008/10/100th-post-giveaway.html

Jenn

Finding my true place

2008-10-25T09:10:00.002-04:00

Sometimes in life you get to a point where you just aren't sure where your place is. What I mean is, you are doing everything that you normally do and it becomes an everyday ho hum type of thing. You get to the point where you wonder if there is anything else for you in your life ahead. Well, common sense tells me that there is but my life has felt almost complacent recently. So I started reading some books to help me think about the roles that I have now as a wife and mother. These roles are so important to society but yet they often get pushed aside for the spot light roles of the world. I don't care about being popular, on tv, or even being told I'm the greatest person that ever lived on the planet (which I assure you I'm not ). I am interested in being the best wife and mother that I can possibly be. Sure I've looked into different paths for my life over the course of the last 10 years but God has led me on this path that I take and I'm a better person for it.
I've just become complacent in my life and the way I look at things. So I'm reading the controversial book about how to be a good helpmeet to your husband. Some people do not like this book, but I find that it has helped me to see that my attitude towards God, my husband, and even my children needs to change. I had gotten to the point that when my husband would talk to me about anything, his voice would just become annoying to me. That's not a good place to be I tell you. You don't want to be at a place where your husband or wife is getting on your nerves just by telling you something on their heart. This is what happened to me and I needed an attitude check.
Over the last 10 years I haven't become a great musician or some famous actor or a grand teacher in our wonderful public school system, but I have become someone who will have a great influence on the children of our society. My children are taught at home because of our convictions on the matter and I have the opportunity to shape their lives. This is a BIG task and one of grave importance. I can make or break my children during these years. I also have the great opportunity of being a preachers wife. God calls certain special ladies to be a preachers wife. God knows who can handle it. There is a lot of pressure being in the spotlight so much. Everyone looks to you to see if you are laughing at one of your husband's jokes before they do. When your husband does preach, you are the one he goes to to find out how he did, if you thought that his message was clear. You have to find the right words lest to make him feel really bad, which is not what you want to do. You have the be the ultimate example before other ladies in the church when it come to submission and respect towards your husband. One slip and you will hear it through the grapevine.
My life sometimes feels like a spinning wheel out of control. During the holiday months, it is especially difficult. I know however that God means for my attitude to be right towards him, my husband, my children, and others. I must have that meek and quiet spirit that the Bible talks about. Sometimes I talk too much and it gets me into trouble, but sometimes you can say what really needs to be said with as much humility as possible and you'll still get into trouble. People just don't understand, but I know that God will help me to change in such a way that is beneficial to my family. It's all about God and them. My life as a homeschool, stay at home mom, preacher's wife is one that I will cherish for the rest of my life if my attitude stay where it needs to.
So I know where God wants me to be right now. I just need to stay on that path.

Jenn

100 post giveaway!

2008-10-08T13:13:00.001-04:00

Not on my blog...hehe ...gotcha! But on another person's blog. She is giving away some really cute fall decorative items! Go check it out!

http://countrygirlathome.blogspot.com/2008/10/my-100th-post-giveaway-custom-order.html

Sore.....but doing good

2008-10-08T13:01:00.002-04:00

I had heard about a free program that a local fitness center was heading up. So I went to apply for it. When I got there I found out that I could get a big discount for most of the same services. I called my husband when I got out in the parking lot and then decided to go back in and just join the club. I know I will have to pay but I really don't mind. The personal trainer that I have is GREAT! I meet with her once a month, but I can talk to her anytime I need her help. She reminds me of Jillian off of the Biggest Loser. She is tough! She will work your little tail off! BUT I need that kind of kick it to me person to keep me motivated. She showed me some things that I never thought I could do. I did 25 wall push ups, 25 crunches, and 25 squats plus did some walking on the treadmill in between. I was so tired and sore but I felt like I had actually accomplished something that I had never tried to do before! Now that I KNOW that I can do it, I'm going to do them even if it makes me sore! My sister goes to the same fitness center so I have someone to meet me there and keep me on my toes too. I'm wanting to lose enough weight to ride the rides at Disney World next year....and I mean ANY ride I want to. I want to be able to ride the rides that my kids ride with them. I'm looking forward to this journey. When I start losing some weight I will post a before and after picture. PRay for me. I'm really sore right now though. That work out did a doosey on me. It was well worth it mind you but I makes you sore when you haven't worked out like that before. Well, I'm off to study my Bible correspondence course. Have a wonderful day!

Jenn

God's most amazing plan

2008-10-04T15:06:00.003-04:00

Sometimes in life you think you are goin to do one thing and God shows you that it's His will for you to do another. That has been coming up in my life a lot lately. Our ministry, my children, a lot of different aspect of my life are changing right before my eyes and I didn't see it coming. Nothing is wrong mind you. Everything is great and as long as we are doing God's will for our lives we will continue to be ok. The Lord has given Michael a job. He enjoys it and actually thinks he likes it better than the job he did have. He works on Wednesday night which I'm NOT crazy about and praying about that the Lord will see fit for him to work it out where he can leave early on Wednesday night. We'll see. The boys are doing great in school. Joseph's cursive and writing is really improving. One day it just clicked with him and he's off!! Joshua isdoing better with his manuscript. He has a tendency to write starting at the bottom instead of at the top. It's ok we're working on it. There are some things that the Lord is working on us about our ministry. Not things we expected mind you, but things that He had planned all along. What a mighty God we serve! One day we will be where we feel we want to be but God's plan matters the most in our lives. Please pray for us as we look for that open door that God wants us to take. It will be a test of our faith for sure but God's grace is sufficient! Love you all in the Lord.
Peace be with you!

Jenn

Home from the Beach

2008-08-31T22:24:00.003-04:00

Week before last, we took a trip with my parents to the beach. We had a lot of fun. The boys got to play in the water and on the beach quite a bit. It was really nice and was a good vacation for us. Anyone likes to go somewhere for basically free right? My Aunt has a "Vacation Plan" at the beach and allowed all of us to use it. Here are some pics that I took at the beach.

This one is my youngest son on his "boogie board". They loved those things. My husband even got one and went out there to catch a few waves!

This is my oldest son who just had a WIPE OUT!!! LOL He was out there more than the youngest one and he used to be so afraid of water. Praise the Lord he finally got passed that!

This one is one of my favorites. This is of my husband and my oldest son. As we walked back to the car we walked passed this seating area on the pier. We stopped to take a few pics.

These two are two that I took on the sand dunes. I just thought they were purty!

Will post more later!

Jenn

A blog contest!

2008-08-25T08:43:00.003-04:00

Don't you just love them? I beautiful lady is having a blog contest on her blog. Just click on this
link to find out how to get in on it! It is for a beautiful created art words that you can decorate your home with. You can check out the website of the creator Fruitful Vine Creations by clicking on the link.

Will be back later with updates

Jenn

More updates

2008-07-31T15:57:00.002-04:00

My nephew Andrew, has gone home from the hospital. He is doing well. Praise the Lord!

I'm sure you want to know about our Sunday at the church as candidates. Well, we had some good services. There was one couple whom I thought had a little control over the congregation and I felt funny about that. I actually would've thought they were the pastor and wife if I didn't know better. Anyway, we had a good time at the church and the clerk and his wife took us out to dinner. In the end however, we didn't feel this was the church for us. We didn't feel that connection that would or should feel when you go to another church. Anyone needs to feel connected before leaving their current church and going to another. So we are still here and waiting on the Lord. It's going to be alright!

The kids are still doing well in their schooling. Joseph has finally gotten to the point where he will write stories or paragraphs on his own! It has taken a lot of patience but we have succeded! This brings something to my mind. While we were at this church, the clerks wife asks me when the kids are going back to school. I told her that they already were, that they were homeschooled. She looked utterly shocked to say the least. The look on her face told it all. I don't know that she was quite keen with the homeschooling idea. She asked me if I had to turn in the papers and tests that they do to be graded ??????? I was like, no I grade them. Then she asked if I had to have credentials. I was like no, not in this good ol state. She asked more questions and then made a statement that made me realize that she did not really support the homeschooling idea (either out of ignorance or skepticism). She said " There is a lot of people doing that homeschooling around here. It's really getting to be a big thing. You know our former pastor's wife was a school teacher." Maybe I took her wrong but I guess to get the real thought you had to see her face. I just smiled and said "yup" LOL Then I changed the subject because I really was starting to feel awkward. There were many other things that were said and happened that I knew before the second service started that it was NOT the place we needed to be. But I did pray and ask the Lord to show my husband this if this was right what I was feeling and if I was wrong that I would accept it and go there. In the long run, He did and my husband expressed the same feelings to me. So praise the Lord! I really pray that we go to a church that supports homeschooling. PLEASE LORD!!! PLEASE!!! :)

Jenn

Updates on everything

2008-07-25T11:38:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't been on here in a while so I thought I would update on everything.

My nephew Andrew's surgery went very well. They removed the tumor without damaging the optic nerves or blood vessels. However the pituitary stem was damamged. They can control that with meds so everything seems to be fine. He went home from the hospital last night. Praise the Lord!

My husband and I are going to a church this Sunday to minister as candidates for pastor. We feel good about the service and are waiting on God to show us which direction to go.

As far as homeschooling, everything is going well. I'm reviewing and getting everything caught up and prepared for the new subjects coming up in the next month or two. The kids are really learning the way I would hope that they would. I think I am figuring out the homeschooling thing. FINALLY! I'm becoming a little more organized and it really helps me. In case you haven't heard about Homeschool Tracker, it is such an easy program to use, and it's FREE! There is a free version you can download to your computer and it is such a help! You put the assignments in for the year and you can track the attendance. You can print out reports for report cards, attendance, book lists, fields trips, teacher's assignement report for each week. It's an amazing organizational tool! I'm using it this year even more than last year because I see the benefits. For those of you who must keep up with all of these things for the government this is a great tool! Go check it out!

www.homeschooltracker.com

Happy Schooling and God bless!

Jenn

Prayer Request

2008-07-17T20:34:00.002-04:00

Those of you who read my blog know I have two boys. I do not know how I would react if something were to happen to them that was out of my control. My nephew Andrew was found to have a brain tumor and cist pressing against his Pituitary Stem and his Optic nerves. This is very serious. Tomorrow they are taking little Andrew, I forgot to mention that he is 5 years old, to the hospital for brain surgery. This is a very delicate surgery that will take at least 6 hours to perform. I asking everyone that can to please pray for Andrew tomorrow morning from 7am everytime the Lord lays him on your heart. The Dr. is concerned about his eyesight, even though the cist is laying against it, they do not know whether it is attached (which could cause problems removing it) or if it is just pressing against it. If it's pressing against it they will drain the cist and remove is and the tumor. Pray that the Dr's have wisdom and that God will guide their hands to be able to remove this without damaging the optic nerve (which could make him go blind)

Also, I know this is not as urgent as the former request, but my husband and I will be going to a church to minister as canidates for pastor. Please pray that the Lord will give us wisdom and discernment to know if this is the church that HE wishes for us to Pastor. We want to be totally in God's will for this. We will be going to this church on July 27th so please pray for us on that day.

I know that God has a mighty plan for all of our lives and we want to live it to the fullest everyday. Have peace in your soul and may God bless you today!

Jenn

Our first day....

2008-07-07T12:21:00.002-04:00

Today was our first day back to school. I took abotu a month off and feel that it is needed to get back into the swing of things. This day went a little more stressful because I've found that Joseph has trouble focusing on his work. I'm constantly reminding him to focus. Today I got a little frustrated with him but we made it through the first day. We only did Math, English, and History. I'm going to be adding Science to this to do some review of last year before we head into the new books. It's going to be interesting to say the least. I'm also going to get a start on decluttering my life. It seems that things have gotten so cluttered that I can't stand it anymore. My bedroom is the worst because we have all the school books in there along with the washer and dryer (which went out the other day btw), computer desk and all the other things. We really don't have room anywhere else for these things so that is where they go. I'm hoping that when can have a house one day so that I can be a little more organized with where I put everything! AHHH the thought! One day at a time, I know, but you can't help but hope right?

Well off to fix lunch for my little ones and go check out a handheld mixer that someone is giving me. Have a wonderful day!

Jenn

Getting ready for School!

2008-07-05T17:46:00.002-04:00

Well I decided to start next week with their school. I feel that it would be time to get started and I can see where structure is going to be good for them and myself! LOL I came up with a schedule of my day. There still may be some things that I didn't list specifically about what I may do during the school time but this is mainly as a skeleton to go by. Boy do I need that. I think that toughest part is going to be getting up at 6am every morning but I'm going to try! I thought I would share my schedule with you so that those of you who haven't seen a schedule before or are thinking of making one up for yourself can see what another person has done. So here is the link to the pdf file.

http://www.angelfire.com/journal2/kjvmom/2008-09_School_schedule.pdf

Have Fun!

I was allowed to borrow the book Managers of Their Homes by the Maxwells (which I am getting to send back to her so don't give up on me! ) and I enjoyed it! I learned quite a bit from it about scheduling. I don't do everything like they do specifically but it was good to see what others did. I won't be able to go out and buy one just yet but I know that if I ever get the chance I probably will. It was a good resource for me.

I pray everyone is doing well at your homes. It seems things have slowed down a bit right now. I will have more decisions to make in the coming couple of months. I really don't know what to do about them but I'm trusting the Lord that I will have the answer when that time comes.

Have a wonderful day in the Lord! Remember, the Word says,

"Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. " Psalm 27:14

Looking and waiting on our Lords return,

Jenn

A new month!

2008-07-01T09:22:00.002-04:00

Well I've got several updates on different things in our lives right now. First, the VBS went really well. I was pleased with the cooperation that I recieved after a few changes were made. I wasn't thrilled about making the changes but sometimes in life we can compromise to an extent.

My husband recieved his ordination certificate. So he is now officially ordained! Hallelujah! We've waited so long! What this means now is that we will be seeking a church to pastor. I'm not sure how long the process will be but I believe that by this time next year we will not be living in this area. I'm so thrilled about the possibility of having a ministry elsewhere.

Tonight I'm playing for a wedding. I'm not really crazy about playing for weddings but I told this couple I would so I'm honoring that promise. I get really nervous. I feel like I'm at a piano recital. Anyone know how that feels? Anyone remembers those piano recitals? At least I can have the music in front of me. I went to the rehearsal last night and it seemed to take forever. A lot of things that should've been done before that point were not taken care of. It took longer than I would like to but it seems all the kinks are out so everything should run smoothly tonight.

I'm going to be starting school next week. It won't be a full load but definatly be schooling. I would like to review somethings from last year before moving on to the next year. I feel that it will help them in the long run. I haven't recieved their testing scores back yet but am looking for them to arrive any day now.

Well I have to run. I've got a lot to do today along with their karate classes so I've got to get these things done. Have a wonderful day!

Jenn

Morning ramblings

2008-06-18T08:10:00.003-04:00

I'm calling this morning ramblings because I have a tendency to ramble. This morning I went online to fine a template for paper funnels. Can you believe I could not find anything? Then I remembered that I had a template for a party hat on my computer. So I shrunk the graphic for the template and placed four on a sheet and tada, I had my funnel template. What do I need with funnels? Well, you can use them for many things, but we are using them for Vacation Bible School crafts. You see I'm coordinating the VBS this year at my church and instead of paying $8 for 200 funnel cups that I only need 50 of I decided to print out a template, make copies at the church, and then when we decorate the church on Friday, the older kids that usually come can cut them out for us and tape them together. We will be using them to fill empty water bottles with sand to make sand art. Pretty neat huh? I wanted to make it availible to anyone that might need this template so here is the link where you can get it. It is in Adobe/pdf format so if you do not have Adobe on your computer you can go to their website and download it. These are small funnels but I am not using them for big items, just sand, so they will work well.

www.geocities.com/littlepw99/funneltemplate.pdf

Today I must go and look for the sand to fill these water bottles. I had one lady that kept all of the waterbottles that she and her husband used. She cleaned them off and dried them. So they are ready to be filled with sand! Isn't it great?

VBS is this Saturday and I'm ready for it! Pray for me, my husband, and everyone involved that we have a GREAT, FUN, and SAFE VBS this year!

It's been a long journey but I know that the Lord is preparing me to be a pastor's wife. I'v had a lot of opportunities to do things this year that I normally would not do. These things have had their stressful moments and I know that the Lord prepares his children for the future ahead. I have to trust that this is what the Lord is doing. My husband awaits his certificate of ordination. Once he gets that he can talk with our state overseer about pastoring a church. Then, it's up to the Lord to send us to the right place. Pray with us about this!

Well I'm off to take care of my family, house, and duties for VBS. Have a wonderful day!

God Bless,
Jenn

30 years ago...

2008-05-30T21:22:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is my 30th birthday. While others are usually sulking over that 30mark, I'm actually kinda glad I'm finally there. I do feel older no less, but it doesn't bother me. I think when you get out of your twenties people start to listen to you a little more *wink wink*. Really though, I'm just sad that my kids are growing up so fast!

As time passes in my life, I think about where I want to be in my walk with the Lord. The Lord has been so good to us! I could tell stories upon stories of how the Lord has supplied needs, healed fevers, touched lives and more. He is such a mighty great God, isn't He?

I remember one time when my son Joseph was just a baby. We used disposible diapers for our babies, and we were on our last two. We went to church that night trusting the Lord that he would give us money for diapers or we would just have to break out the cloth. (probably wouldn't have been the worst thing in the world) We didn't want to ask our parents because we were trying to be responsible and we had no money to our name. Well as we were coming out of the church that night, I noticed something on our windshield. There was an envelope and my husband's name written on it. We opened it and there was a $100.00 bill inside! No one had heard our prayers but the Lord and he answered them!

Later when Joseph was about 16 months old, he came down with a cold. This cold caused him to have a fever. One night it spiked while Michael was preaching at a local church in our area. We got in the car afterward and I looked back at Joseph and he was seizing! Of course the Lord gave me peace of mind to think to take him to the fire department down the road. There was no one left in the church. About a week later Joseph still had a fever and we couldn't get it to break. I went to church (I was the pianist) and Michael stayed at home with Joseph. When the service started we all prayed for Joseph's fever to break. We then proceeded with the service. When I got home, Michael told me that Joseph's fever had broken! He told me that it was about 7:05 when it broke. When I got up from praying at the beginning of the service, I looked at the clock, and it said 7:05! I knew that the Lord had touched and healed Joseph of his fever.

There are so many more times when God has shown up. I'll have to tell you about these things a little at a time or these posts will be SUPER long! LOL I hope you all have a blessed day or should I say evening! Tomorrow I enter my 30's and I'm happy. The Lord sure has been good!

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
Praise Him all creatures here below
Praise Him above ye heavenlyhost
Praise Father Son and Holy Ghost!

Jenn

More giveaways!

2008-05-28T09:19:00.002-04:00

These are not my giveaways. I fell upon a blog that has giveaways through July 31st. Go check it out! http://mywoodenspoon.com/2008/05/05/new-giveaway-kitchenaid-stand-mixer/

You can also get to it from the link on the left sidebar or the graphic banner on the right. There are already a LOT of comments so you better get in there!

Jenn

Spring Cleaning and other ramblings

2008-05-23T07:26:00.003-04:00

You know I'm not crazy about Spring Cleaning time. I never had really done it because I just usually do it when I get around to it. But I've noticed lately it's become harder to "get around to it". So this past week when I was told that I would have to totally clean out my apartment closet to let the maintenence work on the dryer vent, I knew that this was going to have to happen soon. So I'm going to be working on getting the junk that was in my closet sorted. I'll be throwing things away and giving things away to the Goodwill/Local Freecycle. I really need my life to be less chaotic.

Anyway, today is the last day of testing for my kids! Hallelujah! I'm excited! I might just take them out for a treat! One thing that is hard for me during testing is that when they make a mistake you can't help them. It is so hard not to make a face or react. I have to literally go in the other room. I don't look at their work afterwards because I see the mistakes they made. It's ok though. I know that the scores don't have to be perfect for them to make a good score. I will have to look eventually so that I can write down the answers they chose in case something were to happen in the transit to the scoring place. Yes I give my kids their test. I can do that and I don't see why I would put them under more stress by placing them in the home of someone they don't know. It makes them pretty nervous just to be around strangers, especially Joseph. So testing is over today and I'm glad.

We have also been working on some tomato plants in pots. Living in an apartment it's hard to have homegrown items. However, we decided we were going to try to grow some tomato plants in some pots! They look pretty good! I'll post a pic when I take one. Michael also wanted to grow some kind of pepper, but it hasn't even budded yet. I'm wondering if he put the seed too far down in the soil. Oh well, we'll see what happens next!

I didn't forget this, but I was waiting till the last to mention that I have won my first ever blog giveaway! How exciting! A very sweet young lady named Nataly is having weekly giveaways this month. She also has Friday Features that features a WAHM's business. I won a Friday feature giveaway! I'm a little in shock! LOL Thank you so much Nataly! Click on this link to see what I won! http://www.mommyloveshome.com/search/label/friday%20features . You can also click on that link, go to her giveaways page and comment to get in on the giveaways for this week! I'm so excited!

That giveaway also reminds me that I need to get another one together. ;)

Here she is!

2008-04-23T17:55:00.004-04:00

Well my friend got her apron this week and she seemed to like it very much. For those of you who haven't seen a pic of it here it is!

I really enjoyed making this one. It's a little different from the last one I made, although I enjoyed making that one too. My next project is going to be a skirt. Someone had given me some fabric not too long ago. I gave about half of it away because I didn't think I could use it. Well now I wished I had kept it. Oh well.....live and learn! Anyway, that material is a black and white checked pattern. I think it's going to be very pretty!

Give and it shall be given unto you, is something that I have read in the Bible many times. I've seen it real in my life many times. Well, last night I saw it real again! Monday, I got together some shirts that I don't wear anymore. I posted them on a website to give to anyone that wanted them in my local area. Well, Tuesday I gave them to this lady. Tuesday evening I saw a post on the same website for some modest length skirts. Now you know when it says modest length that someone cares about modesty. I drove about 35 minutes from my house to pick them up. I was so happy when I saw real MODEST skirts! I mean they were real. Anyone who has been in a dress shop recently has probably noticed the lack of modest clothing. I went to a store the other day because my husband had given me a gift card (just because wasn't that sweet?) When I walked into that store I couldn't find one modest skirt that didn't "flow" with my hips or backside. I had to get an outfit one size larger for it not to hug my hips and "show off" my figure. (sorry style tv people...I don't care nothing about style if it ain't modest!) I thought that was mighty sad. So I'm standing here today to say I want the modest clothes back! Anyone ever though of opening a store with just modest clothing? I have! If we weren't looking for the Lord to move us soon, I would open one up here. I probably would get a GREAT amount of business.

Well it's 6pm here and I've got to get myself and two little champs ready for wednesday night prayer meeting. I hope that if you don't have a church that you can go to that you try to find one. It's so important in my opinion to find a church where you can be encouraged through the rest of the week. Pray for us.

To God be the Glory!

Jenn

Organizing my time and home!

2008-04-17T21:41:00.003-04:00

You know life is soooooo much easier when your life in organized, at least for the most part. Of course there are always surprises in your day from time to time. I am learning the importance of organization though.

Today I got half of the boys books for the next school year. I was more excited than they were! LOL You can always tell a homeschooling mom when you see a lady get excited over finding a good price on school books. I paid about half or less for each book that I bought. I am definatly going to meet the budget by half! That really makes me happy, but it makes my hubby happy as well. And you know a happy hubby makes a happy wife!

Going back to school books, I have found that it's really not worth it for me to copy workbooks. There was a suggestion made to me one time that if you copied the workbook the next year you wouldn't have to buy one. But the trouble with that is, by the time you make all those copies either with your own copier or with the Office Depot/Staples one you've spent 20.00 and you might as well spend 16.00 the next year for a new worktext. So I've stopped doing that. I use Bob Jones which works very well with my children and I just buy new worktexts and keep the other books for the next year.

I never thought I would homeschool. I thought this was for the birds. When my husband asked me to marry him shortly after he told me that he wanted me to homeschool. Can you believe I honestly almost called it off because of that? I DID NOT under any circumstances think that I could teach my kids. But you know I'm glad I stayed with him...not only is he a wonderful, caring, thoughtful man, but he was very wise to want them homeschooled.

I was asked recently why I homeschool. Well, I could say a lot of different reasons. Like, schools are not what they used to be; I want to be able to teach my kids with a certain standard that I don't see in the school system here; or even that they are focusing more on social "tolerance" in the schools than academics. But really, even though those things might be true, they are not the reason. I want to be able to share with my kids the things that I find are most important to them growing up to be responsible, caring, God-fearing, adults. Adults that I know will make wise decision because they are trusting God to teach them what to do and plan their lives. I want them to be able to make a difference out there and feel the confidence that they can do all things through Christ which strengthens them. These things the world can't give them. God has called parents to teach their children the statutes of God. It is my responsibility and yours! Not only is it our responsibility but our right as parents! God has called me to homeschool. Just as he has called my husband to preach the Word of God. Nothing is going to stop me unless God wills it. Sometimes I feel inadequate, sometimes I'm downright nervous that I'm not doing a good job. But then, one of my children come to me and say something so smart. Or someone comes to me and tells me that my children are sooooooo smart. That makes me swell inside. Not a bad pride, like my kid is better than yours type of mentality. But it gives me confidence to know that I am doing a good job. Just like parenting, not all decision we make are going to be the best thing. But if we take that lesson learned and use it to our advantage....it will help us in the long run. So teach your children with confidence. Know that God has called you to do this. He will equip those he calls!

Jenn

Whew!!

2008-04-15T21:05:00.002-04:00

I finally finished the project for my exchange person. I hope they will like it. It took me a whole 3 hrs to make. It looks nice though. I'll be mailing it out tomorrow and when she gets it I'll post a pic of it so you can see it. Next on my list??? Get to bed!

Jenn

The Lord knows every step we take.....

2008-04-14T22:57:00.002-04:00

You know that verse I shared with you the other day? Well, the Lord knew that it was an appropriate verse for this week of my life. My husband works so that I can stay home with the boys and homeschool. For a while he was cleaning as extra work on the side for a supplemental income at the establishment where he works. Today he was told that they wouldn't need his cleaning services any longer. He would still have his regular job, just not the extra income. Thing is, he had been taking 32-35 hrs instead of 45-50hrs a week because of this extra job. He was a little discouraged when he called me to tell me. But you know the Lord gave me peace about it. When I hung up the phone with him I added up the difference between what he makes now at 32-35hrs + cleaning and what he would make with 45-50hrs - cleaning. It came to a whopping difference of 167.00. Yes, that is 167.00 we probably could use....but it's not the end of the world either! So I'm praising the Lord that it seems that even though the extra won't be there we will still be just fine. We may have to cut back on some things but the Lord ALWAYS provides! He said he would supply all of our need.

I can't help but think that it's possible that God is fixing to open up that door we have been waiting on. The door to pastor/help pastor a church somewhere. The desire has been even stronger the last couple of weeks. The Lord has opened doors for us at the church where we presently attend, but I know that when the time is right everything will be worked out the way the Lord wants it worked out.

I will leave you with another verse that should speak comfort to you if you are going through a similar situation.

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

AMEN!
Jenn

We're not alone....

2008-04-11T21:59:00.002-04:00

Today I was looking on a site and found and old friend from high school. Well actually I had talked to him before. He is a minister of some sort and just recently got married. Well he didn't tell me that he and his new bride were waiting until their wedding day for their first kiss!!!! I think that is totally awesome! What makes it even more awesome to me is the fact my husband and I also waited for our first kiss on a wedding day at the altar! Most people just look at us in fright when we tell them that. Like we are some kind of aliens! Well now I know that we are not alone! I can tell these people that give me strange looks that we aren't the only ones in the world that have done this. Even my family still picks on us about that. I'm glad we did....because our first REAL kiss was so powerful I felt sparks literaly. A lot of people can't say that. I'm glad we waited and I'm glad to see that there are others who have too.

Jenn

Just doodling

2008-04-11T11:54:00.002-04:00

I know you probably noticed that last couple of days that the scenery has changed around here. Well, I've just been trying out some skins. I like this one don't you? I really would like to find a more homeschool themed one that had these colors in it. Maybe someone will have a recommendation.
Tonight I should have plenty of time to work on the exchange gift that I'm making for my exchange person. This person does not know that I have her name and so she doesn't even know that she is going to get a homemade item! How awesome is that!
I hope she likes it. After I send it and she gets it I will post a picture here so you can see. I'm looking forward to it. I've got to go and get some bias tape to use on it.
Well that's about all today. I'll leave you with a verse. I love this verse. It reminds me that God knows the plans he has for your life. He knows where you are and He knows where you are going to be. Our part is to trust Him to know that His plan is perfect for us and wait patiently on His timing!

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Jeremiah 29:11

Hallelujah!

Jenn

and the winner is............

2008-04-10T20:01:00.003-04:00

Renee! CWAbbottFamily!

Congratulations!

PM me your info and I'll send it out to you ASAP! Thanks to all that commented. Stay tuned for my next giveaway!

Jenn

One of my recently finished projects

2008-04-10T16:56:00.004-04:00

The music minister and his wife got a little doggie. They were looking for a little dress for it. Well I made them one. I thought it was a cute little vest type dress. It didn't have frillies on it though, which I think they were wanting. I thought it was cute...so here it is!

Isn't she just precious!

Jenn

Today is the last day.....

2008-04-10T09:59:00.003-04:00

to get in on the giveaway! I pick the name today at 8pm EST soooooo....if you would like that book please comment away!

Today is Karate day again. Those days I try to keep school short. We start at 9am and sometimes we get done at 10am? Today they had a Math test, English, and Spelling. MWF we have History review (since we already finished the book) Science and other subjects such as Music and Spanish. When we get near the end of the school year things just are a little more hectic for me. Don't ask me why...I couldn't tell ya.

I have a question for you. Do you homeschool year round? If so, how do you handle summer months when all the other kids are out and playing and your kids are still in "school"? Do you shorten your days? Do more hands on or fun activities? I have found that I actually NEED the summer months off. Now, don't get me wrong, I do somethings with them that help them to review what they learned that year. But overall I don't do subject books and workbooks during the summer. I will probably take them to the Library once a week during the summer months because it gives them books to read that are different. The types of books they read are shorter books. My oldest reads chapter books now, so he may not get a book every time he goes.

Do you know that there is so much to do at the library? There is a new library just down the road a bit and it has a little area just for the kids. It's off the to side but in order to leave that area you have to walk passed the librarian. I like that. They also have two computers with kid friendly games on them so the kids can play on the computer while you look in the computer catalog. (which by the way is right next to the computers for the kids) They also have a "kiddie" bathroom in that area. That way you don't have to walk back outside to take them to the bathroom. Can you tell I'm excited about this new library? Only a homeschooling mom right?! LOL

While we are on the subject of libraries. Did you know that the library is your homeschooling friend? We have several in our area and they all have different resources for homeschooling. They also have all those books you wish you could buy but don't have the money for. Remember those?? I just look them up in the online catalog at home and then pick a library for them to be delivered to...and wallah....they call me when they arrive. All I have to do is pick them up! How convenient right?! There is a WORLD of information at the library. Now, you do need to actually look at the books before you take them home. Especially if you are dealing with science and nature. Many books "sneak" in evolution and I can't stand it. It's true though, so always look at the books before you check them out.
The other week, when we went to the library. My oldest was picking out books about planets and biomes. Well, needless to say, I looked in all the books he picked out and there was evolution hinted in there. I was aggravated. My oldest was upset because I wouldn't let him have them. Glad to say that I have trained them to know that if Momma says that you can't read that book it's for a reason. You may think I'm being overprotective. But at that age, they have no need to be introduced to evolution on that scale. I have taught them what it is and that it is just a theory....but I don't go into details. I don't think there is a need for it at age 7.

Well I've gabbed enough...I've got to finish washing their uniforms for karate. Have a wonderful blessed day! Please, if you want that book don't forget to comment below! by 8pm EST !

In Christ ALONE!

Jenn

DH is off today!

2008-04-09T10:20:00.002-04:00

YEAH!!! I love it when dh is off during the week. Notonly does it give me time to see him but it gives the boys something different to do on those days. They hang out with Daddy. Of course, the added bonus is that if there is anything that I need to go somewhere and get I can go by myself. I usually have them with me and that's fine, but it's nice to get out by yourself once in a while. ;)

Well, I got some of my list done yesterday...I did as much laundry as possible, I schooled the kids, took them to karate, but I didn't get my kitchen the way I like it yesterday. I ended up going with a friend to look at a house that she wanted to rent. Hopefully she will find the right one for her family. I'm not going to post a to-do list today because dh is home and I usually don't get my goals done on those days. hmmm I wonder why? LOL

I hope that if you have never read the book "Homeschooling With a Meek and Quiet Spirit " by Teri Maxwell that you go down to the next post and comment to get in on the giveaway! I would love for someone who has never read it to get it. I know it would be a blessing! Just scroll down!

I got thinking about the subject of submission last night as I was going to bed. I've been around so many ladies the last few years that think that the word submit is a bad word. I think what many ladies do not realize is that submit is more than just a word....it's an attitude of the heart. Just like humility, or pride, these are more than just acts or thoughts or words....they are attitudes of our hearts. We can choose to be humble or proud just as we can choose to be submissive or rebellious! Last night, as I was thinking about this subject this recipe came to my mind.

Recipe for Submission

You will need:

1/2 lb of obedience
1 cup of humility
1 cup of respect
1 T of grace
1 T of mercy
1 T of patience
Lots of LOVE

Combine obedience, humility, and respect. Mix well. Then mix in grace, mercy, and patience. Cover with LOTS of LOVE and bake for the rest of your marriage!

I'll leave you with that thought!

Jenn

Who likes a give away????

2008-04-08T23:14:00.004-04:00

I decided to get in on the give aways! I wanted to do one of my own. I found this nugget of a book that I have read and studied. The book is called "Homeschooling with a Meek and Quiet Spirit" by Teri Maxwell.

Here is a description of the book from the back cover.

A desire of a homeschooling mother's heart is to have a meek and quiet spirit instead of discouragement, fear, and anger. She can cope with the myriad of daily difficulties and decisions that a homeschooling lifestyle brings with it, as long as she is having the right responses to them. Let her be fearful, worried, anxious, frustrated, irritated, or angry and a mom soon realizes she is undermining all she wants to accomplish by homeschooling.
Because Teri Maxwell, a mother of eight, has walked the homeschooling path since 1985, she knows first-hand the struggle for a meek and quiet spirit. The memories from her early homeschooling years of often being worried and angry rather than having a meek and quiet spirit are not what she would like them to be.
Homeschooling with a Meek and Quiet Spirit includes Teri sharing the work the Lord has done in her heart through homeschooling. Other homeschooling moms will be encouraged that He can do the same for them. Teri also desires that homeschooling mothers could learn from the lessons the Lord has taught her so that they would begin to have a meek and quiet spirit long before she did.
Will the reader's journey toward a meek and quiet spirit be completed upon finding the perfect spelling curriculum or deciding which chores a child should be doing? Or does the answer lie on a different path? In these pages, Teri offers practical insights into gaining a meek and quiet spirit, along with chapter-by-chapter projects, that any mom can apply to her individual circumstances. She transparently shares the struggles God has brought her through and what He has shown her during these many homeschooling years

So here is how it works. Please leave a comment stating your desire to be included in this give away. I only have one, so on Thursday April 10th at 8pm EST, I will put all the names of those who have commented in a box and pull out a name. The only thing I ask is that you do not include your name if you already have the book. This is to be a blessing to someone not to give away for resale. ;)

Ok so if you want the book...leave me a comment. Please make sure that you have a blog and link to it in the comment section....unless I know you personally....I would hate to not include you because I couldn't find out who you are.

Jenn

To do list

2008-04-08T08:52:00.000-04:00

Today's to do list is quite simple. I have found when I make my to do list really big I can't do it all in one day. I get overwhelmed. So I will be making this to do list very simple.

1. School the boys
2. Laundry
3. Clean kitchen
4. Take boys to Karate (this takes up a good 2 hrs of my time so I put it here so that I don't forget that I have that to do and to manage my time around it)

5. Do DH's Grandmother's taxes (I like the fact that we are getting the stimulus payment but it also means I have to do more people's taxes)
6. Fix dinner
7. Work on gift for exchange (if I have extra time)

I don't know what my plans are for dinner yet. You know I tried to make a menu for the month once, but sometimes we don't want anything but fruit for dinner and it throws all my plans off. My dh works every evening and so he's never here to eat with us. Sometimes we just eat real light. My kids love fruit salad. I'm talking about fresh fruit salad. It always depends on what we have at hand as to what they eat in them. I have no problem with them just eating fruit a night or two a week if that's all they want.

Today I'm working on something for an exchange we are doing at a board I'm on. I think the lady that recieves this will be happy (at least I hope she will like it) After she gets it I will post a pic. I don't want her to see what it is before she gets it. The limit is $5.00 but I already have everything I need to make what I was going to make so I may be able to add a little extra in there for her. I don't know yet. We'll see.

Dh goes to work at 2 today. Sometimes I'm a little sad to see him leave for so long everyday, but I don't say anything because I know it's harder for him than it is for me. Pray for him if you get a change today.

Well it's off to do the kids schooling! Have a blessed day! Make someone's day today! Do something special for your kids today!

Jenn

My first post...

2008-04-07T18:56:00.000-04:00

This is my first post on my new blog. I wanted to start over with a new blog because I wanted to talk about just life. My life, my kids, my husband, homeschooling,.....whatever was on my mind that day. I want to be able to show me. Who I am and where God is taking me in my life journey.

First, I am the wife of a preacher, mother of two boys under 10 and a homeschooling teacher. Sometimes, I just don't feel quite adequate to do the job that God has put before me. I know though, that God wouldn't have given me this life if it weren't his plan for me.

So on this blog I'm going to talk about my life. My struggles, my joys, my sewing projects, my homeschool ideas, anything that would be of interest to me or you. :)

I'll begin by showing you a picture of a towel cake I made for my sister's bridal shower. It was this past Saturday and we had a blast! Several people told me that I aught to sell these towel cakes. I'm thinking about it. It would mean more income for my family if I got this going. Here's the pic!