Good morning world. Had such a quiet night last night. The boys helped my sister in law getting hay yesterday. She called to see if they could stay the night so they could get an early start. They did, stay the night. Not sure about the early start. If they stayed up watching movies, the boys are not so good about getting up early. We did have one kid here, not one of our three though.
Tyler was a foster son who lived with us 10 years ago. He was with us for about 2 years and we wanted to adopt him. It just did not work out. He is 26, been in the Army for 6 years, and is here to visit and help Patrick out with his business. He can not believe how much the boys have grown. I keep reminding him it has been 10 years. Boys do grow up.
In saying all that, yesterday was quiet for me. I did not get time in the garden. However, laundry got finished, except for a very few things that were not dry on the line. The house was blessed. Today is ironing and mending, and I have a little of both to get done. I am also going to work in the computer room/office. I really do not have a day designated for this room, yet. I guess I need to have an office day.
I am feeling very "nesty" today.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Monday, June 29, 2015
A/C is off again!!
Good morning world. The A/C is back off again. Actually, we put it in and turned it on Thursday evening and Friday it had cooled down outside so late morning it was turned off. And has been off ever since. The way the temperatures look for the week, it might stay off till way into July. Yippee! Love a lower electric bill for the summer!
We did order and receive a new liner for our above ground pool. We have not had it up in a couple of years. However, this year I believe we are putting it in up and going to enjoy it! Patrick has to get a load of sand for under the pool. I am hoping it will get put up before the weekend as we are having some friends over for the 4th of July.
Today is a no school day. Two of the boys are going to help their Aunt with hay. So this morning, I will be blessing the house and getting laundry on the line. Just love the new fangled solar dryer, the old fashioned clothes line.
Last night it rained and I still had yesterday's load hanging on it. I know, I know, usually I do not do laundry on Sundays. Rain seems to act as a fabric softener. I have not used fabric softener in more than 10 years. I use homemade laundry soap and white vinegar. Sometimes if I get busy and forget a load, I will re-rinse using Purification, an essential oil blend from Young Living. A couple of drops does the same as a cup of white vinegar in taking out any sour smell.
Have a great Monday!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
We did order and receive a new liner for our above ground pool. We have not had it up in a couple of years. However, this year I believe we are putting it in up and going to enjoy it! Patrick has to get a load of sand for under the pool. I am hoping it will get put up before the weekend as we are having some friends over for the 4th of July.
Today is a no school day. Two of the boys are going to help their Aunt with hay. So this morning, I will be blessing the house and getting laundry on the line. Just love the new fangled solar dryer, the old fashioned clothes line.
Last night it rained and I still had yesterday's load hanging on it. I know, I know, usually I do not do laundry on Sundays. Rain seems to act as a fabric softener. I have not used fabric softener in more than 10 years. I use homemade laundry soap and white vinegar. Sometimes if I get busy and forget a load, I will re-rinse using Purification, an essential oil blend from Young Living. A couple of drops does the same as a cup of white vinegar in taking out any sour smell.
Have a great Monday!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Sunday, June 28, 2015
Grieving!
Good morning world. I missed posting yesterday as I got up a tad late and went to a CCW class. Patrick and I thought it was about time for both of us. I am sitting here just grieving for my country. This might not be a popular post as it will not be about old fashioned cleaning schedules, or homemade shampoo working or not. I have not posted anything about what is going on in our county here yet. And I am not sure why I have not. Almost every morning on facebook, I post the Pledge of Allegiance to our Flag as well as a morning post.
My heart is heavy and grieving for our country. When our federal government continues to ignore the Constitution, when our state laws are being ignored by the federal government, when our very rights are being taken away without any say so of ours, I grieve. And what amazes me is the amount of apathy I see on facebook and other social media. Or people getting upset because others (me including) don't like what's going on. I'm not name calling. I don't think I'm better than. I just know what I believe and think.
I will be in prayer today, will you?
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
My heart is heavy and grieving for our country. When our federal government continues to ignore the Constitution, when our state laws are being ignored by the federal government, when our very rights are being taken away without any say so of ours, I grieve. And what amazes me is the amount of apathy I see on facebook and other social media. Or people getting upset because others (me including) don't like what's going on. I'm not name calling. I don't think I'm better than. I just know what I believe and think.
I will be in prayer today, will you?
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, June 26, 2015
I caved in!
Good morning world. I caved in. Yesterday evening, we put the A/C in and turned it on. *Sigh*. I tried to go longer and might have kept my resolve. However, yesterday morning, Patrick said,"I think I am about ready for air conditioning." He works out in the heat most days and yesterday he was in an attic for a good part of the day. We are not going to have it really cold though and are still using fans. Although, I am almost chilly sitting here at my desk, which is in the computer room/office where the big window unit is located.
Needless to say, I only got bread baked yesterday too. I did not seem to have a lot of energy. Probably needed to drink more water. Also, had some things going on with the oven. When I checked the bread to see if it was done, The oven was not warm. Patrick looked at it and said we needed a new part. Ever hear of the cobbler's children with no shoes? I will be asking him this morning.
A bit of news here, we have a visitor here at the Moorhead farm. One of our foster sons is here visiting and might stay to help Patrick out for a bit. He was with us for a couple of years and we wanted to adopt him, it just did not work out back then. I can not believe how much I have missed him and am happy he is here. The boys and Patrick are happy to see him too.
If the oven is working today (Patrick messed with it last night some), then I will get some more baking done. Also will get the house blessed again along with some detailed dusting, and general picking up. Might not get much done in the garden today, depends on the weather.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Needless to say, I only got bread baked yesterday too. I did not seem to have a lot of energy. Probably needed to drink more water. Also, had some things going on with the oven. When I checked the bread to see if it was done, The oven was not warm. Patrick looked at it and said we needed a new part. Ever hear of the cobbler's children with no shoes? I will be asking him this morning.
A bit of news here, we have a visitor here at the Moorhead farm. One of our foster sons is here visiting and might stay to help Patrick out for a bit. He was with us for a couple of years and we wanted to adopt him, it just did not work out back then. I can not believe how much I have missed him and am happy he is here. The boys and Patrick are happy to see him too.
If the oven is working today (Patrick messed with it last night some), then I will get some more baking done. Also will get the house blessed again along with some detailed dusting, and general picking up. Might not get much done in the garden today, depends on the weather.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Not being consistent yet!
Good morning world! Okay, so for Tuesday doing so well with my schedule, yesterday I did not do so good. I did find some pretty menu planners online that I printed up. Normally I use plain notebook paper. I need to see what I have in the freezer to see how the menu planning is going to go. I am using the crock pot a lot and the grill so the kitchen will not get too warm. I went to the garden yesterday for several hours instead of deep cleaning the bathroom and kitchen. Maybe next week.
As soon as the boys are finished with breakfast and P.J. is done with breakfast dishes, I am going to be in the kitchen baking this morning before it gets too warm. The boys are wanting snacks and I do not want to buy them.
Still with no A/C. Patrick thought it would be on when he got home from work last night. However, instead, we went swimming at Topaz mill again. This prompted Patrick to want to get our pool up and running for this year. I agree! My thinking is if our pool is up then we might get more done in the garden. Not sure if that is a completely true statement, but it sounds good. Now to look for a new liner.
Stay cool today as it is going to be a hot one again. Stay hydrated too!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
As soon as the boys are finished with breakfast and P.J. is done with breakfast dishes, I am going to be in the kitchen baking this morning before it gets too warm. The boys are wanting snacks and I do not want to buy them.
Still with no A/C. Patrick thought it would be on when he got home from work last night. However, instead, we went swimming at Topaz mill again. This prompted Patrick to want to get our pool up and running for this year. I agree! My thinking is if our pool is up then we might get more done in the garden. Not sure if that is a completely true statement, but it sounds good. Now to look for a new liner.
Stay cool today as it is going to be a hot one again. Stay hydrated too!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Right on my Old Fashioned Schedule
Good morning world! I have been awake since 4:30. Woke up to the dogs barking. Sill not sure what that was all about. Just could not go back to sleep. So I checked facebook, the weather, and the news. Then prayed for a while. Not sure why else I was wide awake.
I am so excited to report that I completely finished my weekly work for yesterday. Unless something was not put into the mending pile, or set aside to be ironed, it was done. Okay, I just found something of mine that was on my dresser that needs mended, I am working on it now. The piles of mending and ironing are gone. And the funny thing is most of it was mine, in both piles.
I was thinking yesterday as I was mending not one but 2 aprons and ironing 4 of them, that I will take care of everyone else and their stuff, and I am last. However, I was not feeling bitter or neglected or angry. I was feeling grateful and blessed. This is a great change from the martyr syndrome I have had in the past. You know the "I have to do EVERYTHING or it doesn't get done" or "If I don't pick it up, it will stay there FOREVER because you know MOM will do it."
This is my ministry. My way of blessing my family. Now I did not have supper ready when Patrick got home because he brought it home. After spending a good deal of the day mending and ironing, I went out to work in the garden for a few hours. I completely forgot to put anything in the crock pot. Patrick was so sweet and understanding.
Today is menu planning and deep cleaning the kitchen and bathroom. AND more time in the garden.
27 "She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness." Proverbs 31:27 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I am so excited to report that I completely finished my weekly work for yesterday. Unless something was not put into the mending pile, or set aside to be ironed, it was done. Okay, I just found something of mine that was on my dresser that needs mended, I am working on it now. The piles of mending and ironing are gone. And the funny thing is most of it was mine, in both piles.
I was thinking yesterday as I was mending not one but 2 aprons and ironing 4 of them, that I will take care of everyone else and their stuff, and I am last. However, I was not feeling bitter or neglected or angry. I was feeling grateful and blessed. This is a great change from the martyr syndrome I have had in the past. You know the "I have to do EVERYTHING or it doesn't get done" or "If I don't pick it up, it will stay there FOREVER because you know MOM will do it."
This is my ministry. My way of blessing my family. Now I did not have supper ready when Patrick got home because he brought it home. After spending a good deal of the day mending and ironing, I went out to work in the garden for a few hours. I completely forgot to put anything in the crock pot. Patrick was so sweet and understanding.
Today is menu planning and deep cleaning the kitchen and bathroom. AND more time in the garden.
27 "She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness." Proverbs 31:27 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
No A/C update!
Good morning world! I just heard it is going to be another hot day today. Here is one thing that is different in my house than most around here. Okay, there is a lot different. We have not turned on our air conditioner. We live in an old farm house that had belonged to Patrick's grandparents. When his grandfather got sick, his grandmother bought a large window unit. This is what we still use. It is big enough to cool the entire downstairs.
Each year I make a game of it with myself. Just how long can I go without the A/C? Last year we had a couple living with us for a bit and she was big pregnant. So it was turned on fairly early as she could not take the heat. This year we had a fairly cool month of May. It really did not start getting warm till almost the 2nd week in June.
I have fans in a couple of windows to draw in the cool night air. We keep a couple of doors shut during the day. So far as long as we keep the air circulating, I am good. During the day I move a fan around depending on what part of the house I am in and what I am doing.
I am sure I have already talked about going without air conditioning. Consider this an update. I am not judging anyone who is using their A/C. This is just what we are doing for now. Stay cool everyone! We are going swimming today if we get our work finished in time.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Each year I make a game of it with myself. Just how long can I go without the A/C? Last year we had a couple living with us for a bit and she was big pregnant. So it was turned on fairly early as she could not take the heat. This year we had a fairly cool month of May. It really did not start getting warm till almost the 2nd week in June.
I have fans in a couple of windows to draw in the cool night air. We keep a couple of doors shut during the day. So far as long as we keep the air circulating, I am good. During the day I move a fan around depending on what part of the house I am in and what I am doing.
I am sure I have already talked about going without air conditioning. Consider this an update. I am not judging anyone who is using their A/C. This is just what we are doing for now. Stay cool everyone! We are going swimming today if we get our work finished in time.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, June 22, 2015
Being kind in my home.
Good morning world. Do you ever do something you have done before and expected different results? Is it the definition of insanity doing something over and over again expecting different results? I was promised by my boys if I let them stay up watching a new movie they bought for their Dad for Father's Day, they would get up this morning without any problems.
Did not happen.
Surprised? I should not be. However, I am some. I let them convince me they would not give me a hard time about getting up and get up on time at that. Did not happen. This may not seem like a big deal to anyone but me.
So here goes. First, they did not keep their word. I was promised several things that have not happened as promised. Second, we are still in school for the summer and took last week off to get some things done. It is after 9 am and we are still not in school. Third, when they oversleep, one of the dogs usually do not get taken out in time. And you know what that means. Yuck!
"32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32 NIV
In my quest for a more kind, loving home, I will not yell. I will be kind. I have told them for a while we will not be staying up to watch movies on Sunday night. And someone is cleaning up the "present" left by the dog. And we are having school in about 15 minutes. I need another cup of coffee.
Blessing the house on my agenda today, along with laundry and working in the garden.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Did not happen.
Surprised? I should not be. However, I am some. I let them convince me they would not give me a hard time about getting up and get up on time at that. Did not happen. This may not seem like a big deal to anyone but me.
So here goes. First, they did not keep their word. I was promised several things that have not happened as promised. Second, we are still in school for the summer and took last week off to get some things done. It is after 9 am and we are still not in school. Third, when they oversleep, one of the dogs usually do not get taken out in time. And you know what that means. Yuck!
"32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32 NIV
In my quest for a more kind, loving home, I will not yell. I will be kind. I have told them for a while we will not be staying up to watch movies on Sunday night. And someone is cleaning up the "present" left by the dog. And we are having school in about 15 minutes. I need another cup of coffee.
Blessing the house on my agenda today, along with laundry and working in the garden.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Saturday, June 20, 2015
What to do? What to do??
Good morning world. Yes, I know it is just past noon. And I have the whole house to myself! So what do I want to do? At first I was thinking about rearranging a couple of rooms. Now, I am not so sure. Maybe paint in my studio. Maybe vegg in front of the TV. Maybe ???? Patrick and the boys are off to the 4 Wheel Jamboree in Springfield. Except for Tommy, my oldest, he has to work today. I will be picking him up at 5 this evening. Then he and I will get something to eat and not sure what else.
I was telling Patrick this morning that I love my life here on the small farm with him and the boys. I am not sure I have really told him using those words. I wanted him to know that not only do I love him (which I tell him more than daily), but also that I love my life with him. We have gone through some rocky times in the past as most couples. Patrick is a great husband and father. I am definitely blessed! Thank you Lord!!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I was telling Patrick this morning that I love my life here on the small farm with him and the boys. I am not sure I have really told him using those words. I wanted him to know that not only do I love him (which I tell him more than daily), but also that I love my life with him. We have gone through some rocky times in the past as most couples. Patrick is a great husband and father. I am definitely blessed! Thank you Lord!!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, June 19, 2015
Days switched!
Good morning world. Even though I knew yesterday to be Thursday, when it came to my weekly chores, I kept thinking it was Friday. That means I did the home blessing yesterday and did not bake. I guess I will be baking today. I am thinking I might add homemade tortillas to the list of things to make for the week. I have made them before and it is easy to do, just need a little time. And if I am not prepared with time to make them for supper, I have to have them bought. I'd rather make them ahead of time.
So what am I going to make today? Two loaves of bread, cookies, biscuits, tortillas, and either a cake or a couple of pies. I think that is it. I might take a gander through the cook book and see if there is something new I could try out on my human guinea pigs, my family. They are such good sports.
Have a great day all! And remember,
"17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
So what am I going to make today? Two loaves of bread, cookies, biscuits, tortillas, and either a cake or a couple of pies. I think that is it. I might take a gander through the cook book and see if there is something new I could try out on my human guinea pigs, my family. They are such good sports.
Have a great day all! And remember,
"17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Late night last night
Good morning world. A little late going this morning as we got home late last night from Walmart, about 11:30. Those who know me, know I am not a big fan of Walmart. We go with just a couple of things in mind to get and come out spending 4 times that amount. Also, we are there forever it seems. There is one thing I do like about Walmart, running into friends.
Especially since I have been adopted a more old fashioned homemaking style, I do not get to see friends as often as before. Last night I ran into a dear friend. We must have talked for at least an hour. Just standing in the lawn & garden department visiting. I had seen her sister earlier and walked around part of the store visiting with her. I miss those girls! Hope to see the whole family sometime soon.
I have gone through times when I have felt like I really do not have close friends. About that time, God puts them in my path and the feeling is gone. I am truly blessed with a few really great friends!
"A friend loves at all times," Proverbs 17:17 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Especially since I have been adopted a more old fashioned homemaking style, I do not get to see friends as often as before. Last night I ran into a dear friend. We must have talked for at least an hour. Just standing in the lawn & garden department visiting. I had seen her sister earlier and walked around part of the store visiting with her. I miss those girls! Hope to see the whole family sometime soon.
I have gone through times when I have felt like I really do not have close friends. About that time, God puts them in my path and the feeling is gone. I am truly blessed with a few really great friends!
"A friend loves at all times," Proverbs 17:17 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Jealous of a dog?
Good morning world. I realized something this morning. And it is not really a good thing. I am jealous of a dog. How silly is that? Have I steered so far off from my home ministry in the past couple of weeks that I have not shown Patrick just how special he is to me?
This morning I tried to snuggle up to him before getting up and no response. I thought he must be in a deep sleep as he was up late looking up parts for different customers. So I carefully moved away so to not wake him up and his dog, Sophie, moved to his side of the bed and put her head on him. Out went his hand and started petting her. Then he quit.
So do I make something of this or just let it go. Or somewhere in the middle. The other day one of the boys said something about his Dad paying more attention to Sophie than he did him. I told him at the time he was being silly. But is he?
I am going to pray about this today and see how I feel about this situation. I know there are times that I do things that affect others in my family I am not aware of until someone says something.
"4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
This morning I tried to snuggle up to him before getting up and no response. I thought he must be in a deep sleep as he was up late looking up parts for different customers. So I carefully moved away so to not wake him up and his dog, Sophie, moved to his side of the bed and put her head on him. Out went his hand and started petting her. Then he quit.
So do I make something of this or just let it go. Or somewhere in the middle. The other day one of the boys said something about his Dad paying more attention to Sophie than he did him. I told him at the time he was being silly. But is he?
I am going to pray about this today and see how I feel about this situation. I know there are times that I do things that affect others in my family I am not aware of until someone says something.
"4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Getting back to routines
Good morning world. Felt so good to get up early, started laundry, swept and mopped, made my bed, picked up a little, all before coffee. Today is the mending and ironing day. Last night the family wanted french bread. I was so busy blessing my house, I did not have time to bake. Dinner was in a crock pot as it was. So, I am back on the weekly schedule I borrowed from so many years ago. Not my time, would have been in my grandparents time.
Oh a different topic from the other day, I already got upset with a kid, and reacted instead of responding. Before 8:30 in the morning. Starting a new habit is not easy. Yesterday I walked out of the room more than once just to keep my mouth quiet so I could calm down before I spoke. That alone was a great feat. Just did not do that this morning.
Looks like no school for today. My youngest is not feeling so good. Already put essential oils on him. Middle son will be going to work with Patrick since Patrick still is not suppose to pick up anything heavy yet. And my oldest has to work today.
One day this week will be butchering day. We have a few extra roosters and a couple of rabbits who are not good breeders. I plan on canning the meat instead of freezing it. I will not be butchering, the boys will. Maybe Thursday, since I will already be spending the day in the kitchen baking.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Oh a different topic from the other day, I already got upset with a kid, and reacted instead of responding. Before 8:30 in the morning. Starting a new habit is not easy. Yesterday I walked out of the room more than once just to keep my mouth quiet so I could calm down before I spoke. That alone was a great feat. Just did not do that this morning.
Looks like no school for today. My youngest is not feeling so good. Already put essential oils on him. Middle son will be going to work with Patrick since Patrick still is not suppose to pick up anything heavy yet. And my oldest has to work today.
One day this week will be butchering day. We have a few extra roosters and a couple of rabbits who are not good breeders. I plan on canning the meat instead of freezing it. I will not be butchering, the boys will. Maybe Thursday, since I will already be spending the day in the kitchen baking.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, June 15, 2015
If Mamma Ain't Happy
Good morning world! Monday, a day of new beginnings. I wonder how many of you, like me, will sometimes wait till Monday to start something new, a new diet, a new exercise program? I have been talking about starting to do house work in an old fashioned manner. Well, here is another sort of old fashioned idea I want to consider. I have heard for a long time the saying, "If Mamma ain't happy, no one is happy."
I want to sort of expand on that idea. Not in the sense that it is other family members responsibility to make me happy. But in the sense that the mood of my home is a direct reflection of me. Think about it. When I am crabby or upset or just plain in a bad mood, I usually do not respond to the boys or Patrick in a kind loving way to anything they say. Then if they stay away from me because of my mood, I get more upset. Why had not they come to find out why I am upset?
There is the rare occasion I will go into a cleaning frenzy when I am upset. More likely than not, I do not get anything done and my house will suffer from it. I use to tell Patrick that if the microwave is dirty, something is wrong. I usually keep the microwave really clean.
When I am happy, grateful, more Christ centered, it shows in my face and my home.
This week, I challenge myself to pay more attention to my attitude, my moods. As part of my ministry here at home, I want Christ to show more. I pray as I go through my daily tasks, Jesus will bring to my mind and heart how grateful I am to have my family. And home is the first place my boys will see God's love.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I want to sort of expand on that idea. Not in the sense that it is other family members responsibility to make me happy. But in the sense that the mood of my home is a direct reflection of me. Think about it. When I am crabby or upset or just plain in a bad mood, I usually do not respond to the boys or Patrick in a kind loving way to anything they say. Then if they stay away from me because of my mood, I get more upset. Why had not they come to find out why I am upset?
There is the rare occasion I will go into a cleaning frenzy when I am upset. More likely than not, I do not get anything done and my house will suffer from it. I use to tell Patrick that if the microwave is dirty, something is wrong. I usually keep the microwave really clean.
When I am happy, grateful, more Christ centered, it shows in my face and my home.
This week, I challenge myself to pay more attention to my attitude, my moods. As part of my ministry here at home, I want Christ to show more. I pray as I go through my daily tasks, Jesus will bring to my mind and heart how grateful I am to have my family. And home is the first place my boys will see God's love.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Sunday, June 14, 2015
Blessings abound!
Good morning world. Today we are going to be visiting a church Patrick grew up attending. We got married there. In fact, 20 years ago, they built a new church building and ours was the first wedding in the new building. We have been married just over 18 years. Patrick helped build it some. The mortgage is paid off as of now. Today is a mortgage burning party. So today we will not be visiting our friends the Griswolds. I miss them when we miss a Sunday there.
When we get home, I believe it will be a time of rest and recouping for the coming week. Patrick has a busy schedule, as do I. I want to sit down today and do some planning for the week, from menus to chores. That way when I get up in the mornings I have an idea of what is going on for the day instead of being clueless or overwhelmed. Do you do that? Have your days pretty well planned? That is one of the goals of my "old-fashioned" weekly chore schedule I have talked about before.
I am feeling very blessed today. I have Patrick and my boys and family. A home, small farm, garden, pets, the ability to take care of all of these. And, as a lot of single income homeschooling families, at times finances are hard to manage. This is the beginning of one of Patrick's busy season with work. Pat's Services is a heating & air service/repair and appliance repair company. Spring and autumn are the slow seasons for obvious reasons.
Thank you Jesus for your blessings! Have a great Sunday!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
When we get home, I believe it will be a time of rest and recouping for the coming week. Patrick has a busy schedule, as do I. I want to sit down today and do some planning for the week, from menus to chores. That way when I get up in the mornings I have an idea of what is going on for the day instead of being clueless or overwhelmed. Do you do that? Have your days pretty well planned? That is one of the goals of my "old-fashioned" weekly chore schedule I have talked about before.
I am feeling very blessed today. I have Patrick and my boys and family. A home, small farm, garden, pets, the ability to take care of all of these. And, as a lot of single income homeschooling families, at times finances are hard to manage. This is the beginning of one of Patrick's busy season with work. Pat's Services is a heating & air service/repair and appliance repair company. Spring and autumn are the slow seasons for obvious reasons.
Thank you Jesus for your blessings! Have a great Sunday!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Saturday, June 13, 2015
Learn something new everyday!
Good morning world. Never too old to learn new things. I do not consider myself to be computer challenged. However, there are a few things I have not bothered to learn. One of them is how to use Power Point and to make my own graphics. After a bit of playing with the program, I was able to make a graphic for Pat's Services, Patrick's business for an ad. So cool! Now when I have some more time, I will play with it and make some changes to my blog.
Today is suppose to be a family play day. However, since we did not get some things accomplished this week, we are having to get things done today instead of playing. The boys are not happy campers. They will get over it. I am going to concentrate on the house this morning, finishing up what I did not get done this week either.
Do you get to spend Saturday with your family? Ages ago, my Saturdays were strickly for house cleaning, laundry, and grocery shopping. That was when I worked 50 to 60 hours a week out of the house. You know, a job that was suppose to be a 40 week job. Even then I managed to cook dinner each night, check the boy's homework (I had stepsons back then), and keep the house picked up and such.
It just seems that when I do not have a job out, I am busier than before. How is that? I have all the household errands to run as well as some of Pat's Services. Take the boys on homeschool field trips at times. Homeschool the boys, and all that entails. Make sure the animals are taken care of, the boy's chores. When it is summer time, the garden is tended to. Harvest time means canning season. Although that season does not really stop. And so on and so on...
I have been asked if I get bored. My answer is "How?" Have a great Saturday no matter what you are doing.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Today is suppose to be a family play day. However, since we did not get some things accomplished this week, we are having to get things done today instead of playing. The boys are not happy campers. They will get over it. I am going to concentrate on the house this morning, finishing up what I did not get done this week either.
Do you get to spend Saturday with your family? Ages ago, my Saturdays were strickly for house cleaning, laundry, and grocery shopping. That was when I worked 50 to 60 hours a week out of the house. You know, a job that was suppose to be a 40 week job. Even then I managed to cook dinner each night, check the boy's homework (I had stepsons back then), and keep the house picked up and such.
It just seems that when I do not have a job out, I am busier than before. How is that? I have all the household errands to run as well as some of Pat's Services. Take the boys on homeschool field trips at times. Homeschool the boys, and all that entails. Make sure the animals are taken care of, the boy's chores. When it is summer time, the garden is tended to. Harvest time means canning season. Although that season does not really stop. And so on and so on...
I have been asked if I get bored. My answer is "How?" Have a great Saturday no matter what you are doing.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, June 12, 2015
Are we spoiled?
Good morning world. What I meant to say yesterday when I stated "summer is here" is that routines change with seasons. Summer around here means more time spent outside, garden work, grilling, camping, swimming, And with more time outside, less seems to get done inside. So some of my routines of cleaning have gone by the wayside. Does it mean my house is a total mess? No, just not what I consider "company ready".
What am I going to do about it? I was so proud of what I had accomplished before. It is almost 8am. I have to go to town today to get a vehicle inspected and tagged as my van is having some problems. My oldest has to go to work today at noon. I will combine those trips and hopefully have more time here at home.
Another thing we are trying to do is to see how long we can go without the A/C. I try to go longer each year without turning it on. Years ago, air conditioning was not heard of. Have we gotten so use to and dependent on electricity? Of course we have. What happens if an EMP (Electrical Magnetic Pulse) happens? Laundry by hand. One reason for having less clothes. No microwave. Leftovers can be heated up on the stove. What about those who have an electric stove? AND the coveted air conditioning? I am not saying I do not like the cold air in the summer. I DO!!! I just am saying that we have grown soft and spoiled. Me included.
I might try something for a week. Can I live without the conveniences I have grown up with? One of my big jobs for this week is to clean out our freezers and shut a couple of them down as I am wanting to can some of the meat in them. I could use a freezer that is not on our house electrical system, cut down on the refrigerated items, and shut off the breaker in my house for the whole house. No TV, no internet, no house phone, no lights at night. Our hot water and stove is gas not electric so I would have those. Our water well is on a different electric system, so we would still have water for this experiment. Hmm. I will have to talk to Patrick about this. I will keep you posted.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
What am I going to do about it? I was so proud of what I had accomplished before. It is almost 8am. I have to go to town today to get a vehicle inspected and tagged as my van is having some problems. My oldest has to go to work today at noon. I will combine those trips and hopefully have more time here at home.
Another thing we are trying to do is to see how long we can go without the A/C. I try to go longer each year without turning it on. Years ago, air conditioning was not heard of. Have we gotten so use to and dependent on electricity? Of course we have. What happens if an EMP (Electrical Magnetic Pulse) happens? Laundry by hand. One reason for having less clothes. No microwave. Leftovers can be heated up on the stove. What about those who have an electric stove? AND the coveted air conditioning? I am not saying I do not like the cold air in the summer. I DO!!! I just am saying that we have grown soft and spoiled. Me included.
I might try something for a week. Can I live without the conveniences I have grown up with? One of my big jobs for this week is to clean out our freezers and shut a couple of them down as I am wanting to can some of the meat in them. I could use a freezer that is not on our house electrical system, cut down on the refrigerated items, and shut off the breaker in my house for the whole house. No TV, no internet, no house phone, no lights at night. Our hot water and stove is gas not electric so I would have those. Our water well is on a different electric system, so we would still have water for this experiment. Hmm. I will have to talk to Patrick about this. I will keep you posted.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, June 11, 2015
Bad language
Good morning world. It is definitely summertime. The heat is here. Remember a few months ago, us saying we could not wait for it to warm up? Well, that time is here. I took the boys to Topaz Mill yesterday, a local watering hole. There is a rope to swing out and my boys do all kinds of weird flips and such. I just float on a blow up thing and watch them. We were not there for long. There was a few others there. The language was horrible.
Do girls really think it is cool or something to cuss worse than a sailor, as they use to say? I do not like being around bad language. Every other word out of a girls mouth was the "f" word. Even though my boys are older, I still do not want them around bad language either! I am not perfect. But there are a few words I do not or try not to ever say.
In my quest to be pleasing to the Lord, I think about the power of the tongue. I have been told there is life and death in the power of the tongue. I choose life! What about you?
Scriptures say:
Do girls really think it is cool or something to cuss worse than a sailor, as they use to say? I do not like being around bad language. Every other word out of a girls mouth was the "f" word. Even though my boys are older, I still do not want them around bad language either! I am not perfect. But there are a few words I do not or try not to ever say.
In my quest to be pleasing to the Lord, I think about the power of the tongue. I have been told there is life and death in the power of the tongue. I choose life! What about you?
Scriptures say:
"May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." Psalm 19:14 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Changes happen!
Good morning world! The best made plans, right? How do you handle yourself when you have your day all planned out, whether it is a day trip somewhere fun or a day at home blessing the family? Today my day's plans have definitely been changed. We were going to have school this morning, more paperwork to take care of, finishing blessing the house, laundry (using the solar dryer), and paint if I had time.
Instead, I am taking care of Patrick's phone. I am either getting him a new phone, or send this one out. This entails a quick trip to West Plains, a neighboring town about 30 minutes away. Since he needs his phone for business, I will be going this morning. Completely changing some of my plans. I use to get really upset at changes like this. Now, oh well, I will make it an adventure. Does not sound like an adventure? It is all how you look at a situation. With God's help, I can do all things.
Would I rather be at home, you bet. I love being at home. This was not always the case. For now it is. Are you doing what you love? Can you make changes in your life to a simpler lifestyle? I had the suburbia, 2 income lifestyle years ago, complete with all that entails. I would rather find ways to save money and stay home with my family. Have a great day what ever you are doing.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Instead, I am taking care of Patrick's phone. I am either getting him a new phone, or send this one out. This entails a quick trip to West Plains, a neighboring town about 30 minutes away. Since he needs his phone for business, I will be going this morning. Completely changing some of my plans. I use to get really upset at changes like this. Now, oh well, I will make it an adventure. Does not sound like an adventure? It is all how you look at a situation. With God's help, I can do all things.
Would I rather be at home, you bet. I love being at home. This was not always the case. For now it is. Are you doing what you love? Can you make changes in your life to a simpler lifestyle? I had the suburbia, 2 income lifestyle years ago, complete with all that entails. I would rather find ways to save money and stay home with my family. Have a great day what ever you are doing.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, June 8, 2015
Back from camping!
Good morning world! Yes, even with the rain, it is a good morning. We got home from camping yesterday evening. I was not able to take pictures as I rely on my phone and it was not holding a charge very well. It stayed on the charger in the van most of the time. However, I will get pictures from my boys and post them possibly in the morning.
I spent a lot of time by myself on Saturday as Patrick had a job to get done, Tommy had to work, the other 2 boys had rode their bikes back home to do chores. Yes, we were that close. Anyway, I read a Mom's devotion book, a book on focusing on faith in the family, and some scriptures. I also did quite a bit of journal writing. During that time I started to feel abandoned by the family. But then I realized that God had probably orchestrated my time alone with him. That was the time I spent in prayer. It was a refreshing time! Just what the Lord ordered.
Do you get to spend alone time with the Lord? I am finding more and more it is a must. It is a reminder of just how much the Lord loves me.
We are not going to have school this morning as the boys are finishing unpacking the van and getting the camping gear put away. I have a mountain of laundry to do and with the rain I cannot take advantage of the solar dryer aka the clothes line.
I am feeling blessed today. My family is not perfect. Our home is messy right now. But it is MY family, warts and all. It is MY home, complete with dogs and cats. Oh and I have been losing weight which is helping with the blood pressure issue. Hopefully another 10, 20 pounds and I can stop taking medication. Blessings abound.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I spent a lot of time by myself on Saturday as Patrick had a job to get done, Tommy had to work, the other 2 boys had rode their bikes back home to do chores. Yes, we were that close. Anyway, I read a Mom's devotion book, a book on focusing on faith in the family, and some scriptures. I also did quite a bit of journal writing. During that time I started to feel abandoned by the family. But then I realized that God had probably orchestrated my time alone with him. That was the time I spent in prayer. It was a refreshing time! Just what the Lord ordered.
Do you get to spend alone time with the Lord? I am finding more and more it is a must. It is a reminder of just how much the Lord loves me.
We are not going to have school this morning as the boys are finishing unpacking the van and getting the camping gear put away. I have a mountain of laundry to do and with the rain I cannot take advantage of the solar dryer aka the clothes line.
I am feeling blessed today. My family is not perfect. Our home is messy right now. But it is MY family, warts and all. It is MY home, complete with dogs and cats. Oh and I have been losing weight which is helping with the blood pressure issue. Hopefully another 10, 20 pounds and I can stop taking medication. Blessings abound.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, June 5, 2015
Busy, Busy, Busy!!!
Good morning world. I have been a tad busy the past few days. My studio is workable now. Just a little more to get cleaned up. I have been painting.
An eagle flag rock I love to paint!
This one was mailed to Pennsylvania. I am working on a couple of more projects I will post pictures of when I am finished with them.
The classroom is in use again. The roof is fixed, the room cleaned up. We have to get electricity to it next, but that will wait till next week. I will post pictures then too. So school is back in session for us. It has been a great week for us in school!
I have also been working for the past few afternoons in the garden. Now that the rain has subsided for a few days, I can get some of the rest of it planted and some weeding done.
We might be going camping this weekend. I feel our family needs this for a time of recharging. We have gone through so much in this past year. The extra families from the middle of August to the end of January. The extra financial burden that caused is finally starting to get better. I think after a weekend of camping, it will be easier to get back on a regular schedule of everything. The past couple of weeks, I have gotten away from my weekly schedule of old-fashioned house keeping. And I miss it. For a time, not only was I doing that but I always looked nice too; dressed, make-up, hair. I really miss that too.
Have a really great weekend! Probably will be a wireless weekend. I will have pictures on Monday!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
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