~Nikki here..I'm reposting this from an email I got. I thought it had a great point!!!
Why go to Church?
If you're spiritually alive, you're going to love this!
If you're spiritually dead, you won't want to read it.
If you're spiritually curious, there is still hope!
A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday.
"I've gone for 30 years now," he wrote, "and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of them. So, I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all."
This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column, much to the delight of the editor.
It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher: "I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals.
But I do know this.. They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work.
If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today.
Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!"
When you are DOWN to nothing.... God is UP to something!
Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible!
Thank God for our physical AND our spiritual nourishment!
All right, now that you're done reading, send it on! I think everyone should read this!
"When Satan is knocking at your door, simply say, "Jesus, could you get that for me?"
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Monday, March 17, 2008
What does YOUR child see?
This was sent to me in an email and I thought it was worth passing along. Give it alot of thought :)
WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I heard you praying to God, and I knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in Him too.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care "the least of these my brethren."
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are given to be good stewards.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt , but it's all right to cry.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared what I did and what happened to me and I wanted to be everything that I could be to please you and God.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say, "Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking."
---Nikki here....many good things to think about.
But many things to pray for too. I know a family that is very close to my heart that are going thru some TERRIBLE difficulties....Satan is attacking their family head on and they need prayers. I don't wish to name them hear but God knows who they are and what they need just please pray for these friends of mine. Thank you
WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I heard you praying to God, and I knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in Him too.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care "the least of these my brethren."
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are given to be good stewards.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt , but it's all right to cry.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared what I did and what happened to me and I wanted to be everything that I could be to please you and God.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say, "Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking."
---Nikki here....many good things to think about.
But many things to pray for too. I know a family that is very close to my heart that are going thru some TERRIBLE difficulties....Satan is attacking their family head on and they need prayers. I don't wish to name them hear but God knows who they are and what they need just please pray for these friends of mine. Thank you
Friday, March 14, 2008
Friday has arrived!!!
This was my first "real" week of working with daycare. I mean, I've had the 2 year old here and there but this week I had a real schedule to work with for my before and after school kids.
It was great. The two school age kids I have are great. The 10 year old plays great with both Angel and Tony!!! They get along sooo well together.
On Monday I will find out if I have two more kids enrolled. A baby who is 5 months, and his sister who is 3. That will be like 8-4. I would LOVE that!!! So, things are coming along.
Its been slow but slow is good for me in order to get used to doing this full time again.
I have many plans with this extra money.
1. Pay off bills
2. Fix up my house
3. Do things with kids we haven't been able to do for a while . For example, weekend trip to Pittsburgh or something. Cedar Point this summer....etc.
I can't wait.
If anyone in the Martins Ferry area or Wheeling area read this and know someone who have some baby items they are planning to sell at a yard sale, let me know. I am looking for things like a bouncy seat, exersaucer, play ring, anything to help with a baby and keeping him occupied and happy.
Today, I feel good. Better than I have in a couple of days. There was a stomach thing going around. Joey had it pretty bad but hopefully he is doing better.
May God Bless you all!!!
Nikki
It was great. The two school age kids I have are great. The 10 year old plays great with both Angel and Tony!!! They get along sooo well together.
On Monday I will find out if I have two more kids enrolled. A baby who is 5 months, and his sister who is 3. That will be like 8-4. I would LOVE that!!! So, things are coming along.
Its been slow but slow is good for me in order to get used to doing this full time again.
I have many plans with this extra money.
1. Pay off bills
2. Fix up my house
3. Do things with kids we haven't been able to do for a while . For example, weekend trip to Pittsburgh or something. Cedar Point this summer....etc.
I can't wait.
If anyone in the Martins Ferry area or Wheeling area read this and know someone who have some baby items they are planning to sell at a yard sale, let me know. I am looking for things like a bouncy seat, exersaucer, play ring, anything to help with a baby and keeping him occupied and happy.
Today, I feel good. Better than I have in a couple of days. There was a stomach thing going around. Joey had it pretty bad but hopefully he is doing better.
May God Bless you all!!!
Nikki
Monday, March 10, 2008
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Where is Spring?
The above picture speaks more words than I can write...
Many are ready for spring and I am definitely one of them!!!
I had my food program interview yesterday and all went well. YES!!! Also had an interview with a mom for after school care for her 10 year old son. It went great. He hit it off with Angel and Tony pretty well too!!!
Ok I'm off to check about this crazy weather I'm hearing alot about.
Some say we are getting alot but so far, I haven't seen that ....
Later gators :)
Nikki
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
More info on me..
Todays question:
Who gave you your name and why? Did you have a family nickname? How did you get it?
My name, Nikki is not short for Nicole as some may think. It's just plain old " Nikki".
My dad's name is Nick so being the first born in the family, I was named after my dad. Its funny because I have only one sibling and her name is Tami. She is 5 years younger than me and I am named after my dad but she is most like him lol.
Nicknames for me? Well, family all called me Nikki Sue growing up. WHen I visit family now, I feel like I'm 10 again being called Nikki Sue but hey, it IS my name but that is how my family knew me.
~~~~Ok Nikki here....I hope these little question and answer things are interesting enough for you all!! I am posting a new and updated photo of the family that was taken at Christmas time!
ENjoy
Nikki(aka Nikki Sue)
Sunday, March 02, 2008
A bit more personal...
I have this book called Reflections from a Mother's Heart.
Its a bit like a journal but there are things you write about that you would like to preserve for your children. What I am going to TRY to do is write from it on my blog a little ....to give my readers..(however many there are of you lol) a little insight to me.
What was your favorite pastime as a child? Did you prefer doing it alone or with someone else?
What comes to mind is a card game that my Grandma Baker taught me when I was a little girl.
You see, alot of my childhood I lived only a few seconds away from my Grandmothers house.
When I grew up and went back to the old house, it had been torn down but my view of her place and my old house was not what I thought it was. Its great to keep memories because they are a huge part of who we are as individuals.
She and I would play a card game called Nutsie.(not sure if this is the correct spelling)
It was kind like solitaire but it was a game that could be played with more than one person. I couldn't explain to you how it is played but it was something that came to mind when I read the above question.
I preferred playing it with other people. I don't usually like playing games alone anyway.
I challenge you to think about this question a while and find your own favorite pastime as a child also. Why did you enjoy it?
Be Blessed on this beautiful Lord's Day.
Nikki
Its a bit like a journal but there are things you write about that you would like to preserve for your children. What I am going to TRY to do is write from it on my blog a little ....to give my readers..(however many there are of you lol) a little insight to me.
What was your favorite pastime as a child? Did you prefer doing it alone or with someone else?
What comes to mind is a card game that my Grandma Baker taught me when I was a little girl.
You see, alot of my childhood I lived only a few seconds away from my Grandmothers house.
When I grew up and went back to the old house, it had been torn down but my view of her place and my old house was not what I thought it was. Its great to keep memories because they are a huge part of who we are as individuals.
She and I would play a card game called Nutsie.(not sure if this is the correct spelling)
It was kind like solitaire but it was a game that could be played with more than one person. I couldn't explain to you how it is played but it was something that came to mind when I read the above question.
I preferred playing it with other people. I don't usually like playing games alone anyway.
I challenge you to think about this question a while and find your own favorite pastime as a child also. Why did you enjoy it?
Be Blessed on this beautiful Lord's Day.
Nikki
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Navy Transition....
Something hit me the other day that never occured to me before.
It was the fact that I won't be moving again in 3 years lol. It may seem very simple to most but for a person who moved 17 times in 20 years, its a big deal.
I was thinking about the friends I've made since moving to Ferry and it occured to me these are the friends I will have for a long time. Its awesome!
I was thinking about Angel's best friend Sydney and it occurred to me that this is someone she will grow up with and won't have to leave again!!!
What a great relief!!!! There are still many transitions that I go thru. Some DAILY.....with Mike retiring from the Navy. But all in all, things are smoothing out alot. God has straightened a path that I thought for a while to be Mt. Everest. God is good.
I am very thankful to be back home after being gone for so long.
I love my church family! Its great knowing I don't have to find another one in 3 years. Of course, I struggle with trying to fit it all in. I want to serve in so many ways in my congregation but I have to serve my family too. Not only take care of my own family but also run my own daycare business. I know with having my own daycare, I serve families who would not have encountered God in any other way. Whether they are here for a few days or a few months, I plan to be the light that some have never even seen!
Be Blessed
Nikki
It was the fact that I won't be moving again in 3 years lol. It may seem very simple to most but for a person who moved 17 times in 20 years, its a big deal.
I was thinking about the friends I've made since moving to Ferry and it occured to me these are the friends I will have for a long time. Its awesome!
I was thinking about Angel's best friend Sydney and it occurred to me that this is someone she will grow up with and won't have to leave again!!!
What a great relief!!!! There are still many transitions that I go thru. Some DAILY.....with Mike retiring from the Navy. But all in all, things are smoothing out alot. God has straightened a path that I thought for a while to be Mt. Everest. God is good.
I am very thankful to be back home after being gone for so long.
I love my church family! Its great knowing I don't have to find another one in 3 years. Of course, I struggle with trying to fit it all in. I want to serve in so many ways in my congregation but I have to serve my family too. Not only take care of my own family but also run my own daycare business. I know with having my own daycare, I serve families who would not have encountered God in any other way. Whether they are here for a few days or a few months, I plan to be the light that some have never even seen!
Be Blessed
Nikki
Friday, February 29, 2008
Whats New?
Hi everyone!
I am in the process of gathering my resources to start my preschool program each morning from 8:30 - 11:30. I have developmental skills checklist for 2 years old thru Pre K and try to work with each child to attain those skills before Kindergarden.
I seem to have a problem though.
It seems people are looking down on me. Not sure why....
Yes, I have mostly been a stay at home mom for the past 20 years but during that time, I've had my own daycare business for most of that 20 years. I've been state licensed, state certified and Navy certified. I've also been a big part of my own soap and body care business before where I made and sold items I made.
I know about my own business, I know about teaching as I've been homeschooling for many, MANY years.
I make it my business to know children and when I tell people I have my own daycare, they ask me if I TEACH anything to children????
Teaching is my business and raising these children to be GODLY adults is included. Not only do I teach the basic skills, I run my business like I live my life, to give the glory to God. I let people know that I am a Christian and will run my business likewise which means teaching the Bible and stories in the Bible and character lessons that bring about Godly character.
Just because I don't have a college degree doesn't mean I'm less than someone who does.
Anyway, guess I needed a vent!!
Thanks for listening!
I am in the process of gathering my resources to start my preschool program each morning from 8:30 - 11:30. I have developmental skills checklist for 2 years old thru Pre K and try to work with each child to attain those skills before Kindergarden.
I seem to have a problem though.
It seems people are looking down on me. Not sure why....
Yes, I have mostly been a stay at home mom for the past 20 years but during that time, I've had my own daycare business for most of that 20 years. I've been state licensed, state certified and Navy certified. I've also been a big part of my own soap and body care business before where I made and sold items I made.
I know about my own business, I know about teaching as I've been homeschooling for many, MANY years.
I make it my business to know children and when I tell people I have my own daycare, they ask me if I TEACH anything to children????
Teaching is my business and raising these children to be GODLY adults is included. Not only do I teach the basic skills, I run my business like I live my life, to give the glory to God. I let people know that I am a Christian and will run my business likewise which means teaching the Bible and stories in the Bible and character lessons that bring about Godly character.
Just because I don't have a college degree doesn't mean I'm less than someone who does.
Anyway, guess I needed a vent!!
Thanks for listening!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
I am now STATE CERTIFIED!!!
I had my initial inspection to get my certification for childcare today. It lasted a whole 45 minutes and it was easy. Let me say this...God surely blessed my inspection today. THere are soooooooooooo many things she could have really given me a hard time with but she didn't. I've been working on this since summer and it went great.
Let me say this....God is good. For the longest time, I have NOT been looking forward to doing this. I've been dreading it actually but the past month or so...I've noticed an attitude change. This is MY business. My OWN buisness and yes if God blesses it, it will be full and run smoothly.
I am gaining some self esteem that I've been missing for a while. I know being a mother and teacher to my own kids is very rewarding. But no one really gives you much praise for doing it.
With daycare, I hear people tell me how organized I am, how well I work with kids , etc. I don't say this to brag so I hope its not coming off like that. I love being a wife, mother and teacher.
Now, I have a chance to really make difference in lives of children that are not mine.
I also have the chance to teach my children the aspect of this buisness as well. I incorporate my kids into this as much as I can cause there are so many life lessons to be learned with what I am doing.
Thank you God for changing my attitude.
Thank you God for blessing me with this certification.
Now, just to wait for all those wonderful phone calls....
God Bless you all,
Nikki
PS Keep us in prayer please as we just got over the bad flu and now Angel and I are sick with COLDS ....will we ever recover completely???????
Let me say this....God is good. For the longest time, I have NOT been looking forward to doing this. I've been dreading it actually but the past month or so...I've noticed an attitude change. This is MY business. My OWN buisness and yes if God blesses it, it will be full and run smoothly.
I am gaining some self esteem that I've been missing for a while. I know being a mother and teacher to my own kids is very rewarding. But no one really gives you much praise for doing it.
With daycare, I hear people tell me how organized I am, how well I work with kids , etc. I don't say this to brag so I hope its not coming off like that. I love being a wife, mother and teacher.
Now, I have a chance to really make difference in lives of children that are not mine.
I also have the chance to teach my children the aspect of this buisness as well. I incorporate my kids into this as much as I can cause there are so many life lessons to be learned with what I am doing.
Thank you God for changing my attitude.
Thank you God for blessing me with this certification.
Now, just to wait for all those wonderful phone calls....
God Bless you all,
Nikki
PS Keep us in prayer please as we just got over the bad flu and now Angel and I are sick with COLDS ....will we ever recover completely???????
Monday, February 18, 2008
A New way to look at a deck of cards...
A New Way to Look at a Deck of Cards
It was quiet that day, the guns and the mortars,and land mines for some reason hadn't been heard. The young soldier knew it was Sunday, the holiest day of the week. As he was sitting there, he got out an old deck of cards and laid them out across his bunk. Just then an army sergeant came in and said,'Why aren't you with the rest of the platoon?'
The soldier replied, 'I thought I would stay behind and spend some time with the Lord.
'The sergeant said, 'Looks to me like you're going to play cards.
'The soldier said, 'No, sir. You see, since we are not allowed to have Bibles or other spiritual books in this country, I've decided to talk to the Lord by studying this deck of cards.
'The sergeant asked in disbelief, 'How will you do that?''
You see the Ace, Sergeant? It reminds me thatthere is only one God.
The Two represents the two parts of the Bible, Old and New Testaments.
The Three represents the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost.
The Four stands for the Four Gospels: Matthew,Mark, Luke and John.
The Five is for the five virgins there were ten but only five of them were glorified.
The Six is for the six days it took God to create the Heavens and Earth.
The Seven is for the day God rested after making His Creation.
The Eight is for the family of Noah and his wife, their three sons and their wives -- the eight people God spared from the flood that destroyed the Earth.
The Nine is for the lepers that Jesus cleansed of leprosy. He cleansed ten, but nine never thanked Him.
The Ten represents the Ten Commandments that God handed down to Moses on tablets made of stone.
The Jack is a reminder of Satan, one of God's first angels, but he got kicked out of heaven for his sly and wicked ways and is now the joker of eternal hell.
The Queen stands for the Virgin Mary.
The King stands for Jesus, for he is the King of all kings.
When I count the dots on all the cards, I come up with 365 total,one for every day of the year.
There are a total of 52 cards in a deck; each is a week - 52 weeks in a year.
The four suits represent the four seasons:Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.
Each suit has thirteen cards -- there are exactly thirteen weeks in a quarter.
So when I want to talk to God and thank Him, I just pull out this old deck of cards and they remind me of all that I have to be thankful for.'
The sergeant just stood there. After a minute,with tears in his eyes and pain in his heart, he said,
'Soldier,can I borrow that deck of cards?'
( this was sent to me by someone unknown thru email)
It was quiet that day, the guns and the mortars,and land mines for some reason hadn't been heard. The young soldier knew it was Sunday, the holiest day of the week. As he was sitting there, he got out an old deck of cards and laid them out across his bunk. Just then an army sergeant came in and said,'Why aren't you with the rest of the platoon?'
The soldier replied, 'I thought I would stay behind and spend some time with the Lord.
'The sergeant said, 'Looks to me like you're going to play cards.
'The soldier said, 'No, sir. You see, since we are not allowed to have Bibles or other spiritual books in this country, I've decided to talk to the Lord by studying this deck of cards.
'The sergeant asked in disbelief, 'How will you do that?''
You see the Ace, Sergeant? It reminds me thatthere is only one God.
The Two represents the two parts of the Bible, Old and New Testaments.
The Three represents the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost.
The Four stands for the Four Gospels: Matthew,Mark, Luke and John.
The Five is for the five virgins there were ten but only five of them were glorified.
The Six is for the six days it took God to create the Heavens and Earth.
The Seven is for the day God rested after making His Creation.
The Eight is for the family of Noah and his wife, their three sons and their wives -- the eight people God spared from the flood that destroyed the Earth.
The Nine is for the lepers that Jesus cleansed of leprosy. He cleansed ten, but nine never thanked Him.
The Ten represents the Ten Commandments that God handed down to Moses on tablets made of stone.
The Jack is a reminder of Satan, one of God's first angels, but he got kicked out of heaven for his sly and wicked ways and is now the joker of eternal hell.
The Queen stands for the Virgin Mary.
The King stands for Jesus, for he is the King of all kings.
When I count the dots on all the cards, I come up with 365 total,one for every day of the year.
There are a total of 52 cards in a deck; each is a week - 52 weeks in a year.
The four suits represent the four seasons:Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.
Each suit has thirteen cards -- there are exactly thirteen weeks in a quarter.
So when I want to talk to God and thank Him, I just pull out this old deck of cards and they remind me of all that I have to be thankful for.'
The sergeant just stood there. After a minute,with tears in his eyes and pain in his heart, he said,
'Soldier,can I borrow that deck of cards?'
( this was sent to me by someone unknown thru email)
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Where oh where is springtime???!!!
Anyone else out there ready for SPRING?
I can't wait to see everything in bloom and slightly warmer weather. Understand I don't like the really hot weather, but spring time temperatures would be a nice break from winter cold.
Whats new here?
Tony has been fever free now for 2 days so YES!!! the flu is over!!!!
Still no "new" news on the certification thing. I thought I would have heard something but when the bad weather hit, I guess they quit setting up appointments. Who knows....I guess it just gives me more time to get my stuff done.
HOpefully I will have more to report the next time I blog.
Cya cyber friends and family!!
Nikki
I can't wait to see everything in bloom and slightly warmer weather. Understand I don't like the really hot weather, but spring time temperatures would be a nice break from winter cold.
Whats new here?
Tony has been fever free now for 2 days so YES!!! the flu is over!!!!
Still no "new" news on the certification thing. I thought I would have heard something but when the bad weather hit, I guess they quit setting up appointments. Who knows....I guess it just gives me more time to get my stuff done.
HOpefully I will have more to report the next time I blog.
Cya cyber friends and family!!
Nikki
Friday, February 08, 2008
I'll rethink NOT getting a flu shot next year!!!!!
Before moving to Ohio, I've never had the need to get a flu shot. Why?
Cause I never get the full blown flu!!! Well, I can't say -NEVER- anymore. The flu had ME down for 5 days straight. Angel had it at the same time as me, and within a day it was Joey's turn and last night Tony started. HOpefully it will run its course and leave forever :)
I saw a neat little saying on a local church's outdoor sign.
It read:
Do you want to destroy your enemy?
Make him your Friend!!!!!
Oh I loved that!!!!!
I am close to being done for my childcare certification. I should be hearing soon on when they want to schedule my home inspection. So I am checking things off a little at a time trying to make sure I'm covered with everything!!!! Don't want them to have to find something and put off giving me my certification even a month longer!!!!
I miss my church family! I hate being ill but hopefully soon, I will be back :)
God Bless
Nikki
Cause I never get the full blown flu!!! Well, I can't say -NEVER- anymore. The flu had ME down for 5 days straight. Angel had it at the same time as me, and within a day it was Joey's turn and last night Tony started. HOpefully it will run its course and leave forever :)
I saw a neat little saying on a local church's outdoor sign.
It read:
Do you want to destroy your enemy?
Make him your Friend!!!!!
Oh I loved that!!!!!
I am close to being done for my childcare certification. I should be hearing soon on when they want to schedule my home inspection. So I am checking things off a little at a time trying to make sure I'm covered with everything!!!! Don't want them to have to find something and put off giving me my certification even a month longer!!!!
I miss my church family! I hate being ill but hopefully soon, I will be back :)
God Bless
Nikki
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Oh this is sooo true!!!
IF YOU GIVE A HOMESCHOOLING MOM A COOKIE
by Sher Birmingham
If you give a Homeschooling Mom a cookie, she'll want the recipe.
She will plan a complete unit study on the History of Cookies.
The family will take field to a farm and see where we get eggs, milk and grain.
At home they will make butter out of milk. The children will want to start grinding their own grain.
Mom will purchase a Bosch Universal Kitchen System.
She will remember she will need a new list of cookbooks.
So she will order An Introduction To Whole Grain Baking w/ CD, Desserts, The Cooking With Children CD, and Lunches & Snacks Cookbook by Sue Gregg, also Whole Foods for Kids to Cook.
Mom orders a 100 lb. bag of wheat berries.
Now she will grind her own wheat grain into flour.
The children remember the farm field trip and knowing they can't possibly get a cow they beg for a few chickens.
So to a trip to the library to research how to build a chicken coop and to how to care for chickens.
On the way out the door Mom see the book, "Chicken Tractor" by Andy Lee & Pat Foreman.
They stop by the Feed and Seed to pick up materials and ask where to purchase the chicks.
There the clerk tells them about egg that can be incubated.
He sells them a book on hatching eggs, eggs, and incubator.
At home Mom and the younger children set up the incubator while Dad and the older children build the chicken tractor.
Back to the library to pick up gardening books and more books on chickens.
The oldest daughter now starts a business grinding flour for the her friend's families.
While her younger sisters are selling homemade cookies to their neighbors.
The boys have started building a new chicken tractor because they want more eggs for breakfast.
That cookie that started this all. the homeschooling mom's three year old ate it.(---based on If you Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff. Sher Birmingham is wife to Bill and author to Successfully at Home Business, School, and Cooking; her website is _http://www.SherBirmhttp://www_ (http://www.sherbirmingham.com/) .)
by Sher Birmingham
If you give a Homeschooling Mom a cookie, she'll want the recipe.
She will plan a complete unit study on the History of Cookies.
The family will take field to a farm and see where we get eggs, milk and grain.
At home they will make butter out of milk. The children will want to start grinding their own grain.
Mom will purchase a Bosch Universal Kitchen System.
She will remember she will need a new list of cookbooks.
So she will order An Introduction To Whole Grain Baking w/ CD, Desserts, The Cooking With Children CD, and Lunches & Snacks Cookbook by Sue Gregg, also Whole Foods for Kids to Cook.
Mom orders a 100 lb. bag of wheat berries.
Now she will grind her own wheat grain into flour.
The children remember the farm field trip and knowing they can't possibly get a cow they beg for a few chickens.
So to a trip to the library to research how to build a chicken coop and to how to care for chickens.
On the way out the door Mom see the book, "Chicken Tractor" by Andy Lee & Pat Foreman.
They stop by the Feed and Seed to pick up materials and ask where to purchase the chicks.
There the clerk tells them about egg that can be incubated.
He sells them a book on hatching eggs, eggs, and incubator.
At home Mom and the younger children set up the incubator while Dad and the older children build the chicken tractor.
Back to the library to pick up gardening books and more books on chickens.
The oldest daughter now starts a business grinding flour for the her friend's families.
While her younger sisters are selling homemade cookies to their neighbors.
The boys have started building a new chicken tractor because they want more eggs for breakfast.
That cookie that started this all. the homeschooling mom's three year old ate it.(---based on If you Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff. Sher Birmingham is wife to Bill and author to Successfully at Home Business, School, and Cooking; her website is _http://www.SherBirmhttp://www_ (http://www.sherbirmingham.com/) .)
Monday, January 28, 2008
If your a MOM you must read....
WHY GOD MADE MOMS
Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:
Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.
How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my Mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.
What ingredients are mothers made of ?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.
Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's moms like me.
What kind of little girl was your mom?
1. My Mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.
What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?
Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my Mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.3. My grandma says that Mom didn't have her thinking cap on.
Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.
What's the difference between moms & dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller & stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friend's.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.
What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.
What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.
If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.
Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:
Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.
How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my Mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.
What ingredients are mothers made of ?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.
Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's moms like me.
What kind of little girl was your mom?
1. My Mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.
What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?
Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my Mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.3. My grandma says that Mom didn't have her thinking cap on.
Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.
What's the difference between moms & dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller & stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friend's.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.
What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.
What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.
If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Homeschooling..which IS the right way?
The Right Way to Homeschool by Leslie Murgatroyd
Before I pulled my eight and ten year old children out of the school system, I had become friends with a neighbor who was already homeschooling. I asked her if I could come over one day, to “watch” so I could “see” how they homeschooled. When I arrived, my friend was folding clothes on the kitchen table and one of her sons was lying on the floor (in his pajamas, mind you!) doing some sort of “school work”– math, I think it was. The other boy was sitting on the couch reading. They would occasionally ask her questions and she would occasionally remind them of something else they needed to “do”. And that was about it! Not at all what I had pictured in my mind!
I came away thinking, “I can do that!” I also still had this mental picture of us sitting around the kitchen table (not on the floor!) “doing school.” So, that's where we started...at the kitchen table...eventually.
Initially, we just had fun! We went on hikes, picked wild flowers and pressed them, had picnics in our front yard, read lots of books aloud, frequented the library, baked, experimented with baking soda and vinegar...
One day we walked to the local cemetery. There, we studied “math” as the kids tried to figure out how old the people were when they died (1916 − 1995 = 79). We also discussed the differences in our lives now and in the life of someone who was born in 1916 (the beginning of “unschooling”? Nah...there is no way I could do THAT!).
Then I decided it was time to DO something. So, I started looking at curricula. One of my “complaints” about the public school system was that it had not been academic enough. Too much time was wasted teaching the kids how to recycle, how to wash their hands and tie their shoes, and so forth. I wanted those academics! I wanted my kids to memorize the multiplication tables and diagram sentences! After all, that's what I did when I went to school, right?
I ordered books from a popular curriculum publisher after attending one of their “motel meetings.” My kids now had language books, books to improve their reading speed and comprehension, history books, health books and reading books. We were all set! I also got a popular set of math textbooks, with the company's box of manipulatives and all!
I even made up a schedule, allowing the kids to sleep in a little, of course. We started our “school day” at 9 and ended by 1 or 2. This was the life, as far as I could tell! The best of both worlds my children were getting the proper instruction, and the one-on-one attention they needed, yet there was still plenty of “free time” for them. I smugly sat back in my chair to watch.
Lo and behold...the kids came to me one day and said, “This is just like 'school.' We might as well still be in public schools!” (insert a whiny tone of voice). Imagine my complete surprise! I had thought I was doing everything “just right.”
“Okay,” I thought, “so we'll toss out some of the 'books' but not the math book!” My son started watching a lot of TV. Things like the History Channel, the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet...and I mean, hour after hour...and he started to read...book after book. I was amazed at what he was learning. I was frequently heard saying “WHERE did you learn THAT?” It might be an absolutely gorgeous day outside, but instead of wanting to go out and play, he'd often be inside...watching tv...usually, the History Channel.
My daughter started taking a quilting class. She had never learned that lost art of “sewing” before...didn't have the time. I was amazed at the fabrics she selected for her quilt–absolutely gorgeous and very creative. I could never have put those fabrics together in my own mind to come up with a quilt like that. She's made two more since then, and always dazzles me with her ability. She has also made herself clothes, and adorable pillow shams for her bed.
Meanwhile, it wasn't long before the math texts produced tears in the eyes of my kids. They learned to hate math. So, out went those books along with the others. I was starting to get a very nice collection of slightly used curricula!
We decided as a family to start going places and doing things. We spent time in Yosemite, walked across the Golden Gate Bridge, canoed, ferried, went to museums, zoos, to Canada, interesting factories, and every water park we could find. We also attended our state homeschooling organization's family camping trip and The California Home=Education Conferences. We were having fun...and the kids were learning.
They might not have been learning the same things as their peers in the public schools, but they were truly learning–not just memorizing for the next test. They were learning about things they wanted to learn about–not just what some government employees decided they should learn. Hmmm...maybe this “unschooling” thing was something we should consider?
My kids became even more involved in the 4-H Program. They took projects in: model rocketry, dog obedience, market sheep, horse, breeding sheep, quilting, small engines, rabbits, leadership, dog agility, horsemanship, arts & crafts, market beef, babysitting/CPR, and electricity. Their 4-H Record Books became our language program! Weighing animals, increasing and decreasing feeds, became part of our math program.
At some point in there, I had my first major PPA (Parental Panic Attack). I decided that the kids really needed to “learn” math. So out came the math textbooks again. And out came the tears again! I was forced to find something different, and I discovered some workbooks (Key Curriculum) that went over much better than the other textbooks had.
My son is an unschooler by nature. He has proven this to me over and over again. Despite my interference! He does not learn from reading a textbook–he is still allergic to textbooks...any size, any shape, any form. He can learn, however, by reading the maintenance manual for his Yamaha dirt bike! He can learn from watching TV shows. He learns from all the books he loves to read! He learns from life itself. He knows a lot about auto maintenance, just from watching his dad! And I guess that's what unschooling is all about! I don't tell many people that he “unschools” because most people don't understand what that means. I still don't understand exactly what that means. I just see that it works...for my son.
My daughter is a little more eclectic. She doesn't have allergies to textbooks, although there aren't many that appeal to her. She has occasionally asked me to purchase some for her, and I do. She's more likely to want to be like her peers. They have books, they do assignments...and she'll give that a try. I'm wondering how far she'll get with the Basic College Math book I recently bought her... But, she's happy to know that if she doesn't like a particular book that I've bought, she won't be made to use it. (Someday, I'm going to get rich from the Recycled Resource Room at the state homeschool conference!) But she also learns from life. She volunteers at our local vet clinic...says that she might want to be a vet some day. She is taking on more and more leadership roles in 4-H...last year treasurer of the club...this year president!
I used to be very supportive of the public school system... I volunteered in classrooms, was treasurer of the PTA, headed school fundraisers, was on Site Council, etc. I even worked as a teacher's aid for several years! All this was part of trying to make it better for my children. Then I realized that it wasn't going to work. It was time to bring them home, where they belonged in the first place. I had always been one of “those” parents...you know, the one who looked forward to spring, summer, and Christmas vacations...the one who was sad in the fall when the kids went back to school. You know the type...we are far and few between! I quit my job as a Medical Assistant so that I could be home with them. My husband works overtime, so that I don't have to. It's not always easy being a one-income family but it is worth it!
So that's how we have homeschooled in the five years since we began. We've gone from “School at Home” to being eclectic unschoolers. What I have learned from all of this is that there is no right or wrong way to homeschool. It gets back to my basic philosophy in life: “whatever works!” It's been hard, for me, because I'm the kind of person that wants to be sure I am doing things “right.“ It was hard for me to realize that there is no “right” way when it comes to homeschooling. But, my kids are teaching me that. Loud and clear!
-----}Nikki here....
This is something I struggle with all the time. I've been homeschooling for many years.
I hate to hear the kids say " I don't like school"....isn't that what most kids in public school say??
Sometimes, its good to sit back and relax and know that this isn't about public school...its about the love of learning we are trying to teach our kids.......
Before I pulled my eight and ten year old children out of the school system, I had become friends with a neighbor who was already homeschooling. I asked her if I could come over one day, to “watch” so I could “see” how they homeschooled. When I arrived, my friend was folding clothes on the kitchen table and one of her sons was lying on the floor (in his pajamas, mind you!) doing some sort of “school work”– math, I think it was. The other boy was sitting on the couch reading. They would occasionally ask her questions and she would occasionally remind them of something else they needed to “do”. And that was about it! Not at all what I had pictured in my mind!
I came away thinking, “I can do that!” I also still had this mental picture of us sitting around the kitchen table (not on the floor!) “doing school.” So, that's where we started...at the kitchen table...eventually.
Initially, we just had fun! We went on hikes, picked wild flowers and pressed them, had picnics in our front yard, read lots of books aloud, frequented the library, baked, experimented with baking soda and vinegar...
One day we walked to the local cemetery. There, we studied “math” as the kids tried to figure out how old the people were when they died (1916 − 1995 = 79). We also discussed the differences in our lives now and in the life of someone who was born in 1916 (the beginning of “unschooling”? Nah...there is no way I could do THAT!).
Then I decided it was time to DO something. So, I started looking at curricula. One of my “complaints” about the public school system was that it had not been academic enough. Too much time was wasted teaching the kids how to recycle, how to wash their hands and tie their shoes, and so forth. I wanted those academics! I wanted my kids to memorize the multiplication tables and diagram sentences! After all, that's what I did when I went to school, right?
I ordered books from a popular curriculum publisher after attending one of their “motel meetings.” My kids now had language books, books to improve their reading speed and comprehension, history books, health books and reading books. We were all set! I also got a popular set of math textbooks, with the company's box of manipulatives and all!
I even made up a schedule, allowing the kids to sleep in a little, of course. We started our “school day” at 9 and ended by 1 or 2. This was the life, as far as I could tell! The best of both worlds my children were getting the proper instruction, and the one-on-one attention they needed, yet there was still plenty of “free time” for them. I smugly sat back in my chair to watch.
Lo and behold...the kids came to me one day and said, “This is just like 'school.' We might as well still be in public schools!” (insert a whiny tone of voice). Imagine my complete surprise! I had thought I was doing everything “just right.”
“Okay,” I thought, “so we'll toss out some of the 'books' but not the math book!” My son started watching a lot of TV. Things like the History Channel, the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet...and I mean, hour after hour...and he started to read...book after book. I was amazed at what he was learning. I was frequently heard saying “WHERE did you learn THAT?” It might be an absolutely gorgeous day outside, but instead of wanting to go out and play, he'd often be inside...watching tv...usually, the History Channel.
My daughter started taking a quilting class. She had never learned that lost art of “sewing” before...didn't have the time. I was amazed at the fabrics she selected for her quilt–absolutely gorgeous and very creative. I could never have put those fabrics together in my own mind to come up with a quilt like that. She's made two more since then, and always dazzles me with her ability. She has also made herself clothes, and adorable pillow shams for her bed.
Meanwhile, it wasn't long before the math texts produced tears in the eyes of my kids. They learned to hate math. So, out went those books along with the others. I was starting to get a very nice collection of slightly used curricula!
We decided as a family to start going places and doing things. We spent time in Yosemite, walked across the Golden Gate Bridge, canoed, ferried, went to museums, zoos, to Canada, interesting factories, and every water park we could find. We also attended our state homeschooling organization's family camping trip and The California Home=Education Conferences. We were having fun...and the kids were learning.
They might not have been learning the same things as their peers in the public schools, but they were truly learning–not just memorizing for the next test. They were learning about things they wanted to learn about–not just what some government employees decided they should learn. Hmmm...maybe this “unschooling” thing was something we should consider?
My kids became even more involved in the 4-H Program. They took projects in: model rocketry, dog obedience, market sheep, horse, breeding sheep, quilting, small engines, rabbits, leadership, dog agility, horsemanship, arts & crafts, market beef, babysitting/CPR, and electricity. Their 4-H Record Books became our language program! Weighing animals, increasing and decreasing feeds, became part of our math program.
At some point in there, I had my first major PPA (Parental Panic Attack). I decided that the kids really needed to “learn” math. So out came the math textbooks again. And out came the tears again! I was forced to find something different, and I discovered some workbooks (Key Curriculum) that went over much better than the other textbooks had.
My son is an unschooler by nature. He has proven this to me over and over again. Despite my interference! He does not learn from reading a textbook–he is still allergic to textbooks...any size, any shape, any form. He can learn, however, by reading the maintenance manual for his Yamaha dirt bike! He can learn from watching TV shows. He learns from all the books he loves to read! He learns from life itself. He knows a lot about auto maintenance, just from watching his dad! And I guess that's what unschooling is all about! I don't tell many people that he “unschools” because most people don't understand what that means. I still don't understand exactly what that means. I just see that it works...for my son.
My daughter is a little more eclectic. She doesn't have allergies to textbooks, although there aren't many that appeal to her. She has occasionally asked me to purchase some for her, and I do. She's more likely to want to be like her peers. They have books, they do assignments...and she'll give that a try. I'm wondering how far she'll get with the Basic College Math book I recently bought her... But, she's happy to know that if she doesn't like a particular book that I've bought, she won't be made to use it. (Someday, I'm going to get rich from the Recycled Resource Room at the state homeschool conference!) But she also learns from life. She volunteers at our local vet clinic...says that she might want to be a vet some day. She is taking on more and more leadership roles in 4-H...last year treasurer of the club...this year president!
I used to be very supportive of the public school system... I volunteered in classrooms, was treasurer of the PTA, headed school fundraisers, was on Site Council, etc. I even worked as a teacher's aid for several years! All this was part of trying to make it better for my children. Then I realized that it wasn't going to work. It was time to bring them home, where they belonged in the first place. I had always been one of “those” parents...you know, the one who looked forward to spring, summer, and Christmas vacations...the one who was sad in the fall when the kids went back to school. You know the type...we are far and few between! I quit my job as a Medical Assistant so that I could be home with them. My husband works overtime, so that I don't have to. It's not always easy being a one-income family but it is worth it!
So that's how we have homeschooled in the five years since we began. We've gone from “School at Home” to being eclectic unschoolers. What I have learned from all of this is that there is no right or wrong way to homeschool. It gets back to my basic philosophy in life: “whatever works!” It's been hard, for me, because I'm the kind of person that wants to be sure I am doing things “right.“ It was hard for me to realize that there is no “right” way when it comes to homeschooling. But, my kids are teaching me that. Loud and clear!
-----}Nikki here....
This is something I struggle with all the time. I've been homeschooling for many years.
I hate to hear the kids say " I don't like school"....isn't that what most kids in public school say??
Sometimes, its good to sit back and relax and know that this isn't about public school...its about the love of learning we are trying to teach our kids.......
Thursday, January 17, 2008
What about Resolutions...just try these.
Just For Today!
1. Just for today I will be happy. This assumes that what Abraham Lincoln said is true, that "most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." Happiness is from within; it is not a matter of externals.
2. Just for today I will try to adjust myself to what is, and not try to adjust everything to my own desires. I will take my family, my business, and my luck as they come and fit myself to them.
3. Just for today I will take care of my body. I will exercise it, care for it, nourish it, not abuse nor neglect it, so that it will be a perfect machine for my bidding.
4. Just for today I will try to strengthen my mind. I will learn something useful. I will not be a mental loafer. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration.
5. Just for today I will exercise my soul in three ways; I will do somebody a good turn and not get found out. I will do at least two things I don't want to do as William James suggests, just for exercise.
6. Just for today I will be agreeable. I will look as well as I can, dress as becomingly as possible, talk low, act courteously, be liberal with praise, criticize not at all, nor fault with anything and not try to regulate nor improve anyone.
7. Just for today I will try to live through this day only, not to tackle my whole life problem at once. I can do things for twelve hours that would appall me if I had to keep them up for a lifetime.
8. Just for today I will have a program. I will write down what I expect to do every hour. I may not follow it exactly, but I will have it. It will eliminate two pests, hurry and indecision.
9. Just for today I will have a quiet half hour all by myself and relax. In this half hour sometimes I will think of God, so as to get a little more perspective into my life.
10. Just for today I will be unafraid, especially I will not be afraid to be happy, to enjoy what is beautiful, to love, and to believe that those I love, love me.
If we want to develop a mental attitude that will bring us peace and happiness, here is Rule #1:
Think and act cheerfully, and you will feel cheerful.
(mine here)---One day at a time so you don't feel discouraged when you had a bad day!!!!
Written by Sybyl F Partridge in 1916 and printed in "How To Stop Worrying, And Start Living" by Dale Carnegie, 1951
1. Just for today I will be happy. This assumes that what Abraham Lincoln said is true, that "most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." Happiness is from within; it is not a matter of externals.
2. Just for today I will try to adjust myself to what is, and not try to adjust everything to my own desires. I will take my family, my business, and my luck as they come and fit myself to them.
3. Just for today I will take care of my body. I will exercise it, care for it, nourish it, not abuse nor neglect it, so that it will be a perfect machine for my bidding.
4. Just for today I will try to strengthen my mind. I will learn something useful. I will not be a mental loafer. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration.
5. Just for today I will exercise my soul in three ways; I will do somebody a good turn and not get found out. I will do at least two things I don't want to do as William James suggests, just for exercise.
6. Just for today I will be agreeable. I will look as well as I can, dress as becomingly as possible, talk low, act courteously, be liberal with praise, criticize not at all, nor fault with anything and not try to regulate nor improve anyone.
7. Just for today I will try to live through this day only, not to tackle my whole life problem at once. I can do things for twelve hours that would appall me if I had to keep them up for a lifetime.
8. Just for today I will have a program. I will write down what I expect to do every hour. I may not follow it exactly, but I will have it. It will eliminate two pests, hurry and indecision.
9. Just for today I will have a quiet half hour all by myself and relax. In this half hour sometimes I will think of God, so as to get a little more perspective into my life.
10. Just for today I will be unafraid, especially I will not be afraid to be happy, to enjoy what is beautiful, to love, and to believe that those I love, love me.
If we want to develop a mental attitude that will bring us peace and happiness, here is Rule #1:
Think and act cheerfully, and you will feel cheerful.
(mine here)---One day at a time so you don't feel discouraged when you had a bad day!!!!
Written by Sybyl F Partridge in 1916 and printed in "How To Stop Worrying, And Start Living" by Dale Carnegie, 1951
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Happy 10th Birthday Angelina!!!!
She turns 10 years old on the 10th of January!!
Happy Birthday to my dear daughter!!!!
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Rubel Shelly thoughts....
Taken from www.heartlight.org
A New Year's Prayer by Rubel Shelly
Holy God of Heaven and Earth,
I know that a thousand years are as a day to you, but we humans are bound up in time. As a new year is beginning, please teach me to ...
care more about people and less about money,
enjoy my work but not let it enslave me,
and laugh more easily than I did last year.
As I get ready for 2008, help me to remember things that are easy to forget ...
that it might well be my last year,
that some people are counting on me,
and that you have things for me to do.
Lord, with the things I have accumulated over the years, please let me ...
shake off the monotony of life,
try some new things in this new year,
and mend some broken fences.
And, Father of Mercies, please teach me in this new and unspoiled year to ...
lighten up and enjoy children, sunsets, reading, and long walks,
avoid quarrels and work at being a peacemaker in this world,
and start next year with fewer regrets than I bring to 2008.
May we live it for your glory!I cannot know what this year will bring, and I am grateful for that! But help me ...
eat less junk food,
exercise and take better care of my body,
and learn to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Above all other things, Father, I want to be your instrument for ...
easing somebody's too-heavy load,
relieving some sad person's misery,
and introducing some lost soul to Jesus.
Come what may in the year about to begin, may we live it for your glory, within your will, and to your delight.
We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
A New Year's Prayer by Rubel Shelly
Holy God of Heaven and Earth,
I know that a thousand years are as a day to you, but we humans are bound up in time. As a new year is beginning, please teach me to ...
care more about people and less about money,
enjoy my work but not let it enslave me,
and laugh more easily than I did last year.
As I get ready for 2008, help me to remember things that are easy to forget ...
that it might well be my last year,
that some people are counting on me,
and that you have things for me to do.
Lord, with the things I have accumulated over the years, please let me ...
shake off the monotony of life,
try some new things in this new year,
and mend some broken fences.
And, Father of Mercies, please teach me in this new and unspoiled year to ...
lighten up and enjoy children, sunsets, reading, and long walks,
avoid quarrels and work at being a peacemaker in this world,
and start next year with fewer regrets than I bring to 2008.
May we live it for your glory!I cannot know what this year will bring, and I am grateful for that! But help me ...
eat less junk food,
exercise and take better care of my body,
and learn to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Above all other things, Father, I want to be your instrument for ...
easing somebody's too-heavy load,
relieving some sad person's misery,
and introducing some lost soul to Jesus.
Come what may in the year about to begin, may we live it for your glory, within your will, and to your delight.
We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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