Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Procrastinators: The Leaders of Tomorrow
 All I have to see is a group of freshly scrubbed Abeka kids enter the homeschool co-op and I can be seized with the guilt of my less than organized ways. I find myself hoping that the kids will not mention that we haven't touched a spelling book since Septmember, or that I gave up on the Saxon Math and switched to an on-line program. Or, that we have been studying early American history for two years now and just covered George Washington last week. I kept telling myself that this year I would make a neat little Charlotte-Mason type schedule (I even downloaded free examples from simplycharlottemason.com ) but to no avail. We followed our own schedule of sorts ~ reading a lot together and independently , doing tons of copy-work (which my kids love. and listening to audio books as we drive around town. (shhh....don't tell anyone, but we loved Jim Dale's brilliant voices in Harry Potter). We read some great historical books and did a few memorable pioneer crafts. We worked on getting a morning chore schedule and have finally mastered feeding the cats and cleaning the litter box, AND more importantly having what we call "Jesus time." The girls make their beds, clean bathrooms, can cook several easy meals independently, keep their rooms relatively clean, are learning to do laundry. They get along famously, can ride horses as easily as play Bach and Mozart on the piano. They love church, love God , love to read, roller-blade, play outside,and are just plain "good kids. All in all they are healthy, happy and are learning despite my own less than stellar planning abilities, and the fact that I let them watch American idol, sometimes eat cookies for breakfast and chicken-nuggets for dinner. I guess I need to rest on the promise that "He who began a good work in me" is Himself not a procrastinator. He is working on me and my children TODAY. I can only cooperate and let Him re-train me one baby step at a time. I am trying to simplify my life and to actually have a list of things to do...TODAY. So, I haven't planned yet for next year, but TODAY we are still in pjs and plan to go to see "Narnia" at one. I plan to enjoy TODAY....and I'll worry about more plans....tomorrow. |
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
It's about time!!!
 The First Day of School ~ on the train to ChicagoOne of the definite benefits of homeschooling is the freedom we have to do school where and when we want. We packed up the newly purchased school supplies and found a cozy spot in the Amtrak dining cart. Our family enjoyed a vacation, a museum trip and a very enjoyable start to our new year.
I apologize to my neglected friends in blogland. The past year has been so busy that I haven't been able to even think about formulating a post. Once time went on it seemed harder to start again. But alas, Michigan winter has set in sending snow and some cozy days and the time seemed right. So, a few catch up photos from the months of our blog silence:  Visiting Grammy and Papa in New York this summer Read-alouds with Dad Daddy-daughter dance Peter-Pan play at homeschool Co-op Sharing the love of horses with good friends 4-wheeling at Nanny & Grampie's Experimenting with Quill pensSo, as you can see....the life of homeschoolers is never boring!!! Hopefully we will once again connect to all of those never boring families out there in blogland. We have missed you.
Much love, Kindred-Spirit Mom and the kids |
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Holiday Highlights
 Here are some pictures of the best moments of our holiday season. Rachel and Ally each recieved a college football hat ~ yes...we are a mixed family.
 Allison purchased reindeer gear from the dollar store and played Rudolph periodically through the past few weeks.  We celebrated Jesus' birthday with a bunch of great homeschoolers. We made crafts and each child lit a candle from Jesus' candle to represent how we take His light into our hearts.  Ella decided that the kitties were hers....it looks quite natural I must say!  Here is a great shot of all the homeschool piano students. We have an amazing teacher, who passes along a passion for music and for God. She had the kids do a Christmas recital at a nursing home.  Allison practicing her songs...The house was filled with music this year and it was just precious.  Rachel plays with a smile!  Willow.....my 40th birthday present (got her a bit early) and my favorite Christmas gift from my parents and Nathan ~ an English saddle. My how my priorites have changed. Last year it was a gift certificate to J.Jill!!  One more Equestrian shot....Ally riding Tango bareback.  Nathan and I at his holiday party. I sang "Santa Baby" to him becasue he is such a great, frugal financial advisor! Complete with text changes "Think of all the floors I've waxed , think of all the credit cards I HAVEN'T maxed."  And finally, a very dramatic reindeer pose.  Hope everyone had a blessed Christmas and we wish you a happy New Year!!! |
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Your scars are beautiful to God
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Thanks to the Homeschool Minute I just found the author of the beautiful Christmas passage I posted last week. Her name is Sharon Jaynes and you can click HERE to go to her website. While perusing her site I stumbled on a book that I think I will order called "Your scars are beautiful to God." I read the excerpt and it was great....but just like in "Jerry Macguire" she had me at "hello." Just reading the title almost had me in tears!! I have some whopper scars on this old bod!! (which will, incidentally, turn 40 in a matter of days). The scar that troubles me most is a rather large keloid that sits in the middle of my neck line (about 2 inches from my collar bone) and causes me to dress like the flying nun. I have trouble wearing anything with even the slightest scoop neck. Imagine how hard it is to find a bathing suit that covers you up to the neck? A dermatologist removed a mole that he thought might be cancerous. It turned out to be fine. And yet instead of focusing on the postive side of it ~ and God's mercy, I still struggle with feeling like people will stare at it and that I will look like a freak. For some reason it seems to be human nature for people to just zero in and focus on scars, deformities and imperfections ~ especially our own. I have used tons of make-up to cover up Mr. Scar lest he peak out and rear his ugly head. I have worn extremely large jewelry over the spot....gosh, I have even placed double stick tape on pendants to be sure that it stayed hidden. But maybe I have it all wrong. Maybe, now that I am approaching 40 it is time to bear my scars, if not proudly, then with grace. Afterall, I am learning to accept the inner scars that no one sees as part of God's plan. Everything that has been allowed in my life can become a "Redeemed Treaure" if I allow God to redeem it. I believe this with all my heart. He brings beauty from the ashes. So why do I still want to hide this bit of ugliness? I guess I do need to order this book!! Maybe I need to stop caring about man who "looks on the outward appearance" and trust God who looks at the heart? There is definitely no piece of jewelry that can cover that which is at times truly hideous in my heart ~ and yet, even this God sees and continues to love me and say "You are altogether lovely, My Beloved!!" These are my thoughts. I will let you know what happens when I read the book!! In the meantime....just let that title minister to your heart: Your Scars are Beautiful to God...
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Saturday, December 23, 2006
Simply Love
I keep seeing and hearing this adaptation of the love chapter (I Corinthians 13) so I think God is trying to tell me something!! It really blessed me and I hope it blesses you too. If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights,
And shiny glass balls, but do not show love,
I am just another decorator.
If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies,
preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a beautifully adorned table,
but do not show love, I’m just another cook.
If I work at the soup kitchen, carol at the nursing home,
and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my own family,
it profits me nothing.
If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes,
attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir’s cantata,
but do not focus on Christ,
I have missed the point.
Love stops cooking to hug a child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the spouse.
Love doesn’t envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china
and table linens.
Love doesn’t yell at the kids.
Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return,
but rejoices in giving to those who can’t.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things,
endures all things.
Love never fails.
Toys will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf cubs will rust.
But giving the gift of love will endure.
~Anonymous
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Thursday, December 14, 2006
Celebrating the Season....and Cindy!
 We have been so blessed to have our niece Cindy stay with us for the past few months. Sadly, she returned to her Chilly Canadian home, where she was very missed, and has left us missing her (and the clean laundry she provided!!). Some people can make a profound impact for Christ just by their presence and Cindy is one of them. She radiates peace and love. Her quiet and gentle ways made us feel very loved. On her last night we all gathered at our favorite Chinese restaurant (where they know us by name and we even have "frequent eater" cards...after 10 buffet dinners you get one free :). We insited everyone wear Santa hats. I am sure that this helped Cindy to feel a little better about leaving the next day!!!!
   No...unfortunately this little cutie is not ours!! The owner's son was so enthralled by these crazy people wearing hats that he jumped right into the fun.
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Thursday, December 7, 2006
Extremely Cheap Holiday Makeover :Homeschool Edition
 A friend of mine told her kids "This year Christmas is going to be about Christ" meaning, funds are low and you're not getting a lot of toys. How sad that Christmas isn't always about Him to begin with. The holidays should be "holy-days" of sharing the beautiful story of Jesus' birth and spreading cheer to those around us. It is also a time for family bonding. So with this in mind....I thought I would share some of my "cheap" and cheerful alternatives for enjoying December as a family. 1. Collect Christmas and winter theme books at garage sales, Salvation army stores, used books sales, ebay, or even the library (if you are careful). Wrap a book for every day in December until Christmas. You can even wrap up books already in the house ~ they don't have to be new books to be fun to open!! Let the kids choose a book to open, then read it together as a family before bedtime. On Christmas Eve make it the nativity story from the Bible. 2. Put a fire in the fireplace or if you don't have one, light some candles and cuddle. 3. Start a cookie exchange in your neighborhood where everyone makes just two dozen cookies. Then you will share, and everyone gets a variety. 4. Find holiday outfits at the consignment shop ~ they are usually barely used :) 5. Get some hot cocoa in bulk and the three pack of whipped cream from Costco or Sam's club and you'll have enough for the whole month...and beyond...maybe!! 6. Grab your hot cocoa and go for a drive to look at the Christmas lights in your neighborhood. 7. Brainstorm with the kids on how you can be a blessing to others. Maybe give your neighbor's a surprise and shovel their snow.... 8. Make ornaments from a mixture of cinnamon and applesauce (equal parts). Start with the applesauce then add the cinnamon until it forms a dough. Shape them as you like, but be sure to add a hole at the top for a string. Takes a few days to dry, but the whole kitchen will smell wonderful. We used a cookie cutter to make gingerbread men, then painted them with glitter paint when they dried. They smell great on the tree, and make good gifts too, or toppings for a wrapped gift. 9. Take turns picking music for dinnertime from your favorite Christmas cds. Take out some new ones from the library. Vote on the worst and the best renditions of the classics. 10. Find a local Christmas show at a church or community center. Last year we went to a local production of The Nutcracker. Inexpensive, but so well done. Lots of churches go all out at Christmas time too. For older kids try to find a church that has a "Messiah" sing a long. 11. Make gifts. Lots of homeschool art lessons in this one!! Last year we knit scarves. This year we did some crafts. One inexpensive and fun craft is wreath making. Pick some greens from outside, a few pine cones, etc. and wire them together on a wreath ring. Add creative touches to "make it your own." 12. Rent holiday movies instead of going to the movie theatre. 13. Go Christmas caroling. 14. Send hand-made Christmas cards to missionaries. 15. Above all, remember Jesus!! What a great time for little kids to dress up and act out the nativity story. Older kids can work on memorizing the story from the Bible and reciting it on Christmas Eve. 16. Decorate your horse's stall and bring her apples on Christmas morning. Remember that Jesus was born in a stable. Also remember that your parents bought a horse and won't be buying you the new nintendo!!! :) (This one is personal!!!!) I am sure that there are many, many more ideas out there of how to have a warm, happy, Christ-centered Christmas. I would love it if you would share your favorites with us. Leave a comment and pass along the joy!!! |
Saturday, December 2, 2006
The Unexamined Life....
Well, it's been awhile once again since I have posted. I have noticed that when I am not posting on my blog there is usually a reason why....and not really just busy times or tiredness, but rather an aversion to reflection. You see, when I sit at my blog I am forced to actually pause and think!! I must, at least briefly, examine my life. Have I accomplished anything this week in homeschooling? Have I had any profound insights into the life of God, or come across anything mildly encouraging I could pass along? Are there any life lessons, funny incidents, etc. And frankly, sometimes there just aren't any!!! But I guess I am realizing that sometimes these things are very intangible. If you don't pause to consider or reflect life can roll on....and begin to become blah. Especially if we are failing to pause long enough for God to get ahold of our hearts and perspectives. So when I "feel" like nothing special is happening in my life, perhaps it is just that I am failing to notice the treasures because I haven't stopped once in my day to rest and think. So maybe I am missing the forest because I am too busy climbing the trees!! Selah...pause, and write about it!! I just did, and it felt good.... |
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Where have we been the past month?
Since the mono incident I have spent the past month attempting to slow down....hasn't really happened much, but I have been too tired to do my normal blog scanning or to write. The Lord has been so good to me in bringing my niece Cindy to us. She has given us so much help in a million different ways. Picture this: you've eaten your only meal of the day from the McDonald's drive through as you are driving your kids to various lessons and play dates. (We limit our outside commitments, but they all seem to fall on the same days  ) The child on the play date has to be at ballet at 5:30 pm and presumedly be fed....it's now 5:05 and you get a cell phone call that someone has already noticed that you're running late and has made and packed a meal for the said child. Can words really describe this sort of blessing!!! For the past nine years Nathan and I have been parenting without the aid of family nearby. It feels like God has given us a huge break by adding another loving heart to the equation, and another set of hands :) It's like God is making up for all the times we couldn't drop the kids off for a visit to Grandma's!! We have even gone out for a few dinners, breakfast twice, and a trip to the book store. Just amazing to not have to line up a sitter and be able to go out!!! This is such a tangible expression to me of God's love, and how He loves us through each other. I feel more rested than if I had been lying on a beach somewhere!! Here are some of the fun things we have managed to do the past month only because Cindy was around to help with laundry:   An afternoon at the Cider Mill eating those Fall favorites ~ the photo doesn't adequately show the amount of yummy caramel that covered the girl's faces...  A homeschool trip to a local farm for hayrides and a corn maze....  Rachel points the way as the kids have a conference as to which way to go next. We got pretty lost and some of the kids got scared ~ thankfully we didn't go at night. It would have been too freaky!! I told the kids that when we are lost and can't find our way we should always turn to God. We praued, and two minutes later we were through the maze. It was such a great lesson by the One who is ultimately home schooling us all!! Thank you for the prayers for me and for our family. May God bless you tenfold for every prayer. Hopefully I will start dropping in the visit you all and hear what's been happening in your neck of the woods. Much love, Kindredspirit Mom (a.k.a. Michele in Michigan) |
Wednesday, October 4, 2006
Mono a Mama
Well....it has been an interesting few weeks. I haven't mentioned it before, but I found out a week ago that I have mononucleosis. The dreaded "kissing disease" we used to laugh about in highschool. Only my Doctor and I can't imagine how I got it since it's usually not passed along from kissing horses ...It does explain why I was moving in slow motion for the past month. Homeschooling has been draining and I am relieved that I have been sick and not just sick of teaching!!! I've spent almost a week in bed but we've managed to continue some schooling. My niece is staying with us and couldn't have come at a better time. She is a blessing. It is amazing to me how God takes care of us. The kids have become obsessed with "The Phantom of the Opera." Pretty funny to me that a 6 and 8 year old would enjoy this story, but they are fascinated. Rachel read the children's version twice this week, and then aloud to her sister. Right now they're listening to the soundtrack and copying all the lyrics. The cutest thing is to hear them singing along in their Opera voices. I love when they homeschool themselves!!! Please pray for us to all be healthy soon. Thank you so much my friends. |
Sunday, October 1, 2006
Driving Lessons
 If you look closely you can see that Allison, my "baby" is driving the tractor. Of course, our grand-fatherly horse farmer is watching on, but doesn't intervene except for some directional suggestions.  Something I am learning is that it is a lot easier being the passenger than the driver!! Rachel enjoyed her cozy spot in the bucket! Ever since God opened up this amazing door for us to have a horse and become a part of this wonderful horse farm I have been seeing spiritual "illustrations" in everything!! Being the only woman in my homilectics class (preaching) in college filled me with a certain shameless pride, the overwhelming desire to see life as sermon illustrations, and to think of my experiences in 3 point outlines. Another unfortunate outcome of this early training is an insatiable desire to pass along all of these insights, whether or not they are asked for :) And hence, my sermonette to myself and anyone listening in blogland. A Driver's Dilemma I have learned something significant over the past few months. It is easier to drive a tractor than it is to drive a horse. Sure, the tractor may break down but basically if you ask it to go left, it doesn't shake it's head and go right. Also, you can be fairly certain that it won't see a deer, get scared and run in the opposite direction. Oh yeah...and it probably won't stop for a snack of grass while you are attempting to move forward. Riding a horse takes work. Time must be spent in building the relationship, earning trust and respect. Bad habits must be replaced with good manners. A soft and obedient spirit must replace predator fear and a rebellious attitude. Only then can a horse be safely driven. That's the thing about "living" vehicles. Sometimes I think that it would be easier for God to use robots who just automatically obeyed Him, like my Toyota obeys me, rather than human beings who tend to be a bit of a challenge. But then there is a joy and satisfaction in the living connection a machine can never give. A Driver's Duty The funny thing about the horse is that what we may call "bad behavior" is just how a horse is wired. God made them to be prey animals. As such, they are naturally suspicious, spooky and swift. A trained horse is taught to overcome these instincts and to trust in the leadership of its rider. So, is it just me, or do you see some interesting parallels in our spiritual life as well as our parenting life? Just for fun, imagine the Lord as the owner of a large horse farm. He is of course a wise and gentle rider. Better than the horse whisperer, He can talk to any horse but also see directly into their heart and mind. He has a special task in mind and walks out to the pasture to chose a mount. Some of the horses are new to His pasture and run away when He gets there. One mare canters over with joy when she sees Him, bows her head before Him, ready and eager to be ridden. He caresses her affectionately but says, "Sorry girl, but today I have a job to do. I'll need Betsy." The mare thinks to herself, "now why would He want to ride that awful creature?" Betsy is dirty ~ she won't let Him groom her. Betsy runs in the other direction when He calls, but He just smiles and waits. He holds out a juicy apple. Eventually Betsy comes close enough to see it, grabs it and runs away. He understands that Betsy didn't always have gentle leadership. He will wait as long as it takes for her to trust Him. So...which Mare do you resemble? I think I am still a Betsy in alot of ways. I realize that God has been employing many of the techniques of a gentle trainer on me. Over the years He has shown me that He cares. He is patient. He disciplines for my good. And if I want to be like Him I will train those He has given me leadership over with the same gentle firmness. It is the leader's duty to train, and those under that leadership are being formed by it. A Driver's Delight My husband taught me to drive. I was 25 and had spent my life in New York City, with a brief hiatus to Pennsylvania for college. I was afraid of driver's and afraid of driving. To make matters worse, my husband had a manual stick shift Honda. I couldn't understand why anyone would want a manual when an automatic was so much easier. His answer was that it was more responsive and more of a challenge. I guess the better you are as a driver the more you enjoy a vehicle that's capable of more power and responsiveness. I just wanted an easy ride. Same with horses. I really don't want to ride a finely cut, muscled thoroughbred with alot of heat. What I have is a young, but very sweet Quarter horse. She wil never win a race (thank God!) and she is on the diminuitive side ~ okay~ borderline pony. Even so, she is a challenge to me. But when we are moving as one nothing is more joyful. Sometimes I find myself laughing out loud as we canter. I think that Willow senses my pleasure and seems to share it. Again, I picture the Lord in His horse farm. Today He doesn't want to do any training. He just wants to enjoy a ride. He choses the Mare who loves Him so. The moment He sits on her back they run off in a perfect canter. They move as one. She responds to His smallest movement, the slightest shift. She knows Him so well that she anticipates His commands. She doesn't get ahead of Him but waits for His signals. Sometimes they slow to smell some flowers. Sometimes He lets her rest by a stream and take a drink. She doesn't wander away, but remains actively listening for His call. When they reach a long, flat stretch of land He lets her gallop, and they are caught up in the thrill of the ride. When they return, He sends the obedient Mare to graze, sighs, and turns to begin His work with Betsy. Maybe today she won't run away when He calls. I hope that anyone who actually reads this enjoys the picture! I so want to be a "joyful ride" for my Master. I have not been the most responsive, but I want to be. I know that His cross has overcome my sin dilemma. He is faithful in His duty to train me...and I must learn and do my part in yielding. Then together we will have a delight driven relationship.  |
Saturday, September 16, 2006
True Confessions of a Homeschool Mom
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I have been avoiding my poor blog....and the reasons are not very noble. After typing my last entry, which I believed completely as I wrote it, I yet again plunged into what Anne of Green Gables would call "the depths of despair" concerning my homeschooling. Call it PMS, call it the onset of the flu (which hit us hard with fever, aches, etc) or call it spiritual warfare, or let's just say all of the above...but whatever was happening to me was not pretty. Everything I know to be true was questioned, and despite all the direction, encouragement from God and friends, I was FEELING completely burnt out. Okay ladies....I actually called the local Public School to find out if they had room. Yes...it was that bad. God used a discorganized Principal, who never called back for my appointment, to stop that ball rolling. I had a "come to Jesus" talk with my husband along the lines of "I don't think I can do this!!!"  I was pretty amazed to discover that my husband, the one who needed to be convinced about homeschooling initially, was completely passionate about us continuing. The only little glitch was the fact that I would be the one doing it!!! :) Probably the lowest moment was when he said "what about all of that encouraging stuff you wrote about on your blog?" And so....we prayed. Friends prayed. I let go of still more expectations and decided to start very slowly. Our first day we packed a picnic lunch, laid out a blanket at the barn, and read.  It went well, but for some reason I was still feeling so weighed down. That's when I realized that I had a pretty bad flu bug. This past week we did hardly anything but stay home, cuddle, read and sleep, and do our math work. We quarantined ourselves from the neighborhood. Somehow during this time God worked on my heart yet again. He turned it back towards my family and helped us to re-bond with one another after the active summer. As much as I my kids enjoy playing with their friends for hours, and as much as I enjoy the "free time" we had to almost re-learn the contentment that can come from just being together and learning. One positive thing that has come out of my two week freak out is that Nathan realized that I probably need some help. He invited our niece from Canada to come stay with us for awhile as a mother's helper. I am so relieved.  (Both sides of our family live more than 500 miles away ). She is a sweetheart, and will be a huge blessing to our family. Just to have another adult around so that the kids don't have to go to the gynecologist with me will be a relief :)And so ladies....if you are FEELING badly this week I can almost guaranteee that you are not alone!!! Homeschooling can be completely overwhelming. My heartfelt wish for anyone struggling is that they will find breathing space. If I can come out of this pit I know that you can!!! If it is really what God wants He will change your heart and give you grace. Even if you're like me and He has to do it over...and over...and over :) and bring your own blog words back to convict you. Yup...I'm eating my last post with a bit of strawberry jam.  Keepin' it real, Michele |
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Moving in slow motion
Have you ever had one of those dreams where you are being chased and you seem to be moving in slow motion?  Well....that would describe my preparations for teaching this year. For about a month now, just the THOUGHT of starting school has been accosting me. Burdened down with the weight of my past failures, the large pile of unused curriculum from last year, and the "craft" and paper refuse that currently litters the floor of our classroom, I have been quite unfit to run or even limp along. That is, until God asserted Himself into the picture. I read an article in TOS that personified our expectations as a hard-nosed man in a suit who shows up to critique our homeschooling. "Are your children really learning?" he sneers. I think it's been the man in the suit who has been chasing me this past month!!! Jesus' yoke is easy and His burden is light....except for homeschoolers...yes, they are the ONLY exception.....NOT!!!! We of all people should be happy and free. We get to be home with our children, forming relationships with them and teaching them about life and godliness. And the life Jesus came to give is "life more abundant." So...if this is true, then it is true that homeschooling, done under His direction and with His assistance, should be a joyful experience of abundance. An abundance of rich and enjoyable learning. After realizing these truths I once again committed my task to the Lord. I prayed for motivation and direction. He immediately provided some friends with timely encouragement, and some resources on the web that lightened my load. (check out www.homeschoolestore.com). I have the first 20 days of teaching planned and I no longer feel overwhelmed. All things will be well, and all matter of things will be well!!! Our theme verse for this year is Proverbs 24:3-4: "By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures."  By His grace I am asking God to help me impart wisdom and understanding to my girls. I'm praying for wisdom in just what "knowledge" to teach this year. I want to keep it simple and consistent and not let myself be chased or accused by Mr. Expectations. What a relief!!! I wonder just what type of treasures will fill our rooms this year. Now that is joyful expectation :) |
Friday, August 25, 2006
Momma: somebody's hero
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Okay....I heard this on the country station last week and cried all the way home!! What precious truth there is in this song by Jamie O'Neal: She's Somebody's Hero She's never pulled anyone from a burning building She's never rocked Central Park to a half a million fans, screaming out her name She's never hit a shot to win the game She's never left her footprints on the moon She's never made a solo hot air balloon ride, around the world, No, she's just your everyday average girl (but) She's somebody's hero A hero to her baby with a skinned up knee A little kiss is all she needs The keeper of the cheerios The voice that brings Snow White to life Bedtime stories every night And that smile lets her know She's somebody's hero She didn't get a check every week like a nine-to fiver But she's been a waiter, and a cook and a taxi driver For twenty years, there at home, until the day her girl was grown Giving all her love to her was her life's ambition But now her baby's movin' on, and she'll soon be missin' her But not today, those are tears of joy runnin' down her face She's somebody's hero A hero to her daughter in her wedding dress She gave her wings to leave the nest It hurts to let her baby go down the aisle she walks right by Looks back into her mother's eyes And that smile lets her know She's somebody's hero Thirty years have flown right past Her daughters' starin' at all the photographs Of her mother, and she wishes she could be like that Oh, but she already is She's somebody's hero A hero to her mother in a rockin' chair She runs a brush through her silver hair The envy of the nursing home She drops by every afternoon Feeds her mama with a spoon And that smile lets her know Her mother's smile lets her know She's somebody's hero |
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Quiet Resting Place
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I get a wonderful devotional from Nancy Campbell. Here is an excerpt I thought you might enjoy, being that we are entering the season where our kids will be inside a bit more!!! Quiet resting Places Isaiah 32:18, "And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places." A quiet resting place! Doesn't that sound idyllic? It sounds like a wonderful vacation, to me. But let's get back to the real life. It's not always quiet when you have lots of children around you. There is often so much to do that life doesn't seem like a rest! I know that I would have to go away for a vacation to have a rest from my busy life around here.
And yet this is what God calls our homes-resting places. I don't think it is necessarily a rest from noise and activity (although we need these respites from time to time). I believe it is a rest from fear. A rest from tension and strife. A rest from anger, bickering and fighting. A rest from complaining and grouching. These are the things that put strain upon your home. It's not the noise of children; it's not the hard work-it is the wrong attitudes! They cause frustration and vexation of soul more than outward circumstances.
Jesus gave us a wonderful invitation to rest, "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)
Do you notice there are two rests He calls us into? Firstly, the rest of sins forgiven when the burden of the guilt of sin is rolled away. Secondly, you can experience a deeper rest in your soul as you take His yoke upon you and learn of Him. As the ocean is calm underneath even though the violent storm tosses the waves above, so you can experience a deep rest in your soul even when the waves of turmoil billow over you. You can have a rest of spirit in your home, even in the midst of noise and the bustle of activity. |
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Fed by God :)
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This past week I became aware of just how important it is to be fed by God's Word. Just like I can get crabby when I haven't eaten for awhile, that whole low blood sugar crash, I can get even crabbier when I have been trying to live "by bread alone." So here was the wonderful Word God brought to me this morning during devotions with hubby. We have been completely overwhelmed by the poignant translation of Leslie Brandt in "Psalms/Now." Here is Psalm 100: Psalm 110 God spoke to me today. He broke through my childish doubts with words of
comfort and assurance. Hand in there; sit tight; stick to my course for your
life, He said, I will not let you down. He reminded me of how He cared for past saints, how He
watched over them and kept them through their hours of suffering and
uncertainty. He reviewed for me my own life, His loving concern
through the days of my youth. He restated for me my commission and appointment, His
trust in me as His servant in this sorry world. He reiterated His gracious promises to stand by me, to
empower and support me in the conflicts that await me. I know that God is with me today just as surely as
He was with His saints of old. I have neither to fear nor to doubt the eternal love
and presence of my Lord. I hope that this encourages someone else out there to "stay the course" God has for you in homeschooling. It can be tough...but it is worth it when it is God's course for you. Blessings, Michele |
Wednesday, August 9, 2006
Playing Hookie
 Well....it is now August 9th and the "aliens" and I are still romping around. As you can see from the photo the grass really is greener on the other side of the classroom :) How do I go back to normal life? Or should I say, how can we continue to have all the fun we're having and do phonics, math and history....oh yeah....and laundry, vacuuming and reasonably clean the 4 bathrooms? (the one in the basement shouldn't count). For the past two years we have always started "school" eagerly (at least I was eager!!!) on August 1st, but for the first time I am really struggling with changing gears. At some point I need to sit down and plan some goals. In the mean time we're reading "Misty of the Chincoteague" and riding the country side. If I keep posting only pictures of us riding in, lets say, October, somebody please hold me accountable!!!!! I do seriously know that the summer we have experienced has been a true gift of God. His beauty has been all around in the simple pleasures of nature, in the relationships we have formed (with both people and horses!) and in the sheer joy and abandon of a days spent with no constraints for time. We haven't been playing hookie from God!!! Oh how I need Him!! Both the joy of His world and the quiet inner world of time alone with Him. Even the best blessings of this world dry up if our hearts are not under the influence of His Spirit and His Word. This isn't all there is....but for maybe the first time in years I am enjoying life and not only living for the afterlife!!! We mystic types can get pretty kookie!!! Anybody remember my longing for the Abbey just a few short months ago? "How great and glorious is our God! From hour to hour, from day to day our lives ought to overflow with praise and gratitude. It is amazing, even fantastic, how our God permeates every facet of our lives and can work out His purposes through them despite our human faults and failures..." (From Psalm 113 in "Psalms/Now" by Brandt)  |
Tuesday, August 1, 2006
Abducted by Aliens
 I thought it was time to let my friends know why I haven't been blogging lately....as you can see, this friendly alien insisted on communicating with me, and taking me to her leader:  Her ruler was small but powerful, with eyes that resemble the lunch meat from pre-packaged Lunchables. And so my friends, I have been very busy entertaining the aliens and showing them how human beings enjoy the summer. School will be starting soon, so the aliens will have to return to their homeworld. |
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Jesus take the reigns!
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Well my friends...even though I have been in a happy cloud since we got our horse Willow, reality is that even the best dream come true has its challenges. Yesterday I had it out with our horse in the large arena. She is young and can take try to do her own thing...go her own way...ignore your leadership (doesn't that sound a lot like children? And for that matter like us with the Lord?). I hate being "tough." I am definitely a marshmellow and I dislike conflict and confrontation. But, I am learning that as a Mom and as a horsewoman I need to be a decisive leader. I need to recognize the smallest hint of disobedience and correct it before it becomes major. Case in point: it is much easier to steer Willow in the direction I want her to go if I am consistent to correct the slightest deviation. If I wait till she is flying in her own direction it is alot harder to reign her in and steer. I had a major breakthrough yesterday after I was almost ready to give up. It was really HARD!! I was so tired of fighting her will, but eventually there was submission and then there was joy. The funny thing was she was super affectionate after our "work-out." I had been so afraid that she wouldn't like me if I was "tough" on her. Gee...that sounds like something I struggle with with my kids.... This morning Nathan and I were reading from our favorite paraphrase "Psalms/Now" a unique version of Psalm 46. Here are a few of the verses: Our great God is still our Refuge and Strength. He is ever aware of our problems and fears. Thus we have no business doubting Him... "Relax, stop fretting and remember that I am still your God; I still hold the reigns on this world of yours." I am glad that He doesn't give up on me, and that He is in control of this world and of even our crazy circumstances. We can rest and let Him hold the reigns of our life. When we submit to His leadership things are so much better!! |
Sunday, July 16, 2006
what are they learning?
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Recently I found a blog entry that sooooo touched my heart. In it Eleanor Joyce wrote about how she created a list of all the things her girls had learned in their relaxed summertime schedule (minus structured academics). Here it is: "As I looked at the page I asked myself, "Are my girls better prepared for a balanced adult life than they were a month ago? Have they learned anything about responsibility, or compassion, or planning, or sharing simple pleasures during the past month? Most definitely! That's why I prefer the term "home learning" to "homeschooling." While the academics ARE important, I am so prone to letting the bookwork overshadow what is of real significance. Writing my little list just brought things into focus and realigned my vision. Could I encourage you to do the same? Don't focus on what hasn't been accomplished. Instead, make a conscious decision to think about what your children HAVE experienced and learned. Your list will be different from mine, but I can almost guarantee that it will surprise and encourage you! Commit your days and your ways to God. He is your children's ultimate teacher (and yours too!). "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5 and 6 (ESV). " Not only were those words and encouragement to me, but she even quoted the verse that God had given me last August (Prov. 3:5). He is so good! Last year I discovered Cindy Rushton and she suggests that we ask the Lord each year for a special "theme verse." I cannot tell you how many times I came back to this verse when I was confused, tired, discouraged, guilty, etc.! Even in great times it reminded me that apart from His touch, His wisdom and blessing all my labor would be in vain. So....what are your kids learning? Leave me a comment and let me know!!! One thing my girls and I are learning is how to ride ~ it has been such a joy.  Rachel on Willow....   Allison and Rachel learned to spin wool the good old fashioned way at "King's Landing" in Canada.  The girls and I are enjoying our summer at West Hill Ranch where we board Willow. This is a picture of Rain and her surprise foal, Liberty Bell, born on the 4th of July. The girls have learned to feed her heated milk. I think that God's plan for my summer has exceeded anything I could have come up with!! I can't wait to hear what your kids are up to. |