Carrie's Country Cottage

Busy With Projects

 I have been busy . . . busy . . . busy with all the projects that  I have started (over the last 10 years) and not gotten finished.  As I started sorting through the boxes in preparation of moving in the next few months, I realized that I had many good intentions that I lacked follow through on.  One of my biggest boxes was a 2 feet by 2 feet by 3 feet storage bin packed to overflowing with old jeans.  I have started a braided rug with the more worn pairs, but there were a couple of pairs of jeans that just only had blown cratches in them.  So, I got to thinkin' . . . . . (hmmm) . . . . . I bet there is something we could do to salvage these not-so-very-used pairs of jeans.  Lady Bug's new jumpers (Another lighter colored one is on the sewing table just waiting for the sewing machine to get back from its matainance servicing.) was the result of the salvage mission.

I cut out the crotch seam of the jeans.  Then used the seam that was already running down the outside of the leg as the center seam on both the back and the front of the jumper.  Due to this making the front of the jean leg one half of the front of the jumper, and the back of the jean leg the other half of the front there was a slight difference in how the jeans wore (for the sort time that they lasted) and so I used the back pockets to cover up the most obvious knee wear.  And if I do say so myself, I think they are the cutest part of the jumper (aside from the beautiful model).  For the sake of continuity, I used heavy orange thread (to match that which was already on the pocket) to do all the seams.  I left the bottom hem and the edges of the pockets raw.  It has been washed a few times and is raveling very nicely.

Some of the other projects waiting to be done: 

--pajama pants for the boys:  their current pairs are getting rather thin for they are used for thermals as well as sleep-wear.  So, if I could get them each 2 pairs made to add to the ratation then the more used pairs could be retired I will be happy.  Christmas is my goal . . . . . we will have to see.

--work some more on the braided rug(s):  The main one I am working on is 2 feet by 4 feet at the moment.  I am using 2 strips of denim (from the box of jeans) to 1 strip of our old couch.  We were the 3rd owner of this particular couch and the frame was well on its way to total collaps when we got it.  So, 4 years with our guys and we NEEDED to put it out of its misery.  But before we could "put it out to pasture" -- well the dump -- we skinned it because I really like the color scheme.  And because I have a hard time letting anything go to waste.  Well, I am about half way through using up the couch material.  I have decided that when that is used up . . . the rug is done.  Wow!!!  What a project it has been.  I know the final result will be well worth the effort.

--Christmas gifts:  They will be 100% homemade this year, but due to some family members reading this post, I cannot share any more than that.

--Jumpers for me:  I have enough material to make 3 dresses/jumpers for me.  I just want to get a number of the other projects done first; sort of use my jumpers as motivation to complete the projects for others.  I tend to be very good at starting projects, but lack the follow through to finish with gusto (the MANY boxes of half finished projects can attest to that).

Mind Bender:

When I was in elementary school I had a great teacher that (among the other things) would chalenge us each Monday with a puzzle of sorts to get us thinking.  He made us think about it ALL week, rarely giving even a clue.  These were a great way to teach Creative Problem Solving.  I have long since exhausted the few I remember on my children.  So, I will try to share with you one each time I post.  AND, if you have any such puzzles, please share them with me so that I can give me poor children some new chanllenges.

The Farmer And His Goods:       One day a farmer was returning from market with a fox, chicken and sack of grain.  When he reached the river where he needed to cross in his boat to get home, he discovered that the boat was large enough to hold only he and one other item.  So, he would have to take the items he purchased at market over one at a time.  Problem is:  The fox would eat the chicken if left unsupervised and the chicken would eat the grain if left unsupervised.  How does he get everything across in useable condition?

Many Blessings!

Interim Housing

A quick update on the building project:

Things are moving forward quickly on Buddy's barn.  Since I was last out there (which sadly to admit was over the Memorial Day Weekend), concrete has been poured on the main level, framing of the downstairs walls is nearly completed, the stairs have been finished, and framing began on the walls upstairs.  The followoing picture is from the front door looking toward the back/south of the "barn".  The door to the left in this picture leads out into the garage, and to the right is the Great Room.  On the back side of the stairs will be the bathroom.

Now I am standing in that door leading out to the garage, looking back at the Great Room.  It is just that Great!!!  The photo does not do it justice.  This room is VERY large and yet, I feel with some furniture and loving family filling it, it will feel quite cozy.

 This next photo is from the top of the stairs looking east toward where the children's bedrooms will be.  The farthest room (already framed in) is where the boys will bunk.  It is 16'x16' and has 4 windows (2 on the end and one on each side).  The next room (where the framing matierial is laying) will be Lady Bug's room.  It is 12'x12' and has one window.  The divider you see here is the closets.  The one to the left opens into the boys' room and the one on the right will be for our little miss. The space between the bedroom and the head of the stairs will be the kitchen.  It may look like a small space in the photo, but it will actually be larger than what we currently have (and be a better use of space than our current kitchen). 

 This last photo is looking in the opposite direction at the Master Bedroom.  This is another 16'x'16' room with 4 windows.  As you enter the room there is a closet on each side of the door way.  In the space where Lady and Busy Bugs are, we will have a wood-burning stove and table.   The divider that Manly is leaning on will be shelves (and backing for the railing).

 This is what has kept Manly and the big boys busy for the last several months of Saturdays.  Everyone is really getting antsy to move out into the country.  The journey is proving to be half of the fun.  Time spent with their uncle has been great for the boys.  And Manly is enjoying his brother's friendship and advice. 

Have a blessed day;    Carrie

Wednesday, September 26th, 2007

It was just one short year ago that the surgeon walked out after a 3 hour surgery (that was supposed to last 90 minutes) to let me know that "People just do not survive that sort of thing".

Manly had been feeling poorly for the previous 5-6 months and each Dr visit was non-conclusive.  With each visit Manly was told that as one gets older you have to change your lifestyle.  Manly should be eating more whole foods, in particular raw fruits and vegitables; maybe even start a fiber regiment.  Finally after the 3rd or 4th visit, with his white blood count rather elevated, the Dr diagnosed Manly has having a prostate infection and put him on super high doses of anti-biotics.  But after finishing the round of antibiotics, the pain got more intense and more frequent.  To the point that Manly was sure that something about driving truck was killing him.  He called me at the end of his Sunday run, as he neared home, to let me know that he was going to turn in his time, once he got back to the terminal, because he cannot make one more run.  (He got a medical leave of absence instead.)

On Monday, the 24th, Manly went to see the Dr again and was refered to radiology for a CAT scan.  The CAT scan (on Tuesday) came back that there was a "substancial mass on his colon", and Manly was refered to a surgeon.   Manly's visit with the surgeon on Wednesday confirned that the mass was "most likely" a ruptured (7-10 day old) appendix.  Surgery was scheduled for 4 p.m. that day.  Due to a previous surgery taking a bit longer, it was 6 p.m. before Manly was wheeled into surgery, and I was sent to sit in the "Family Room" waiting for the "white phone" to ring with information about my beloved one. 

At 7 p.m. I got a call from the nurse informing me that "the Dr tried to scope the mass out, but it was such a mess in there that he had to end up opening your husband's abdomen up".  My heart just sank . . . . .  I cryed in disbeliefe for a bit . . . . . Another waiting wife came over and talked with me for a while . . . . . We compared stories as to what brought out loved ones to surgery . . . . . I cried some more as the time just  d  r  a  g  g  e  d  by. 

Finally the Dr came out to talk to me at 9 p.m.  He was amazed that Manly ws still alive let alone able to walk into the hospital on his own.  The Dr had removed a 10x8x4" mass (size of a semi-deflated football) from Manly's colon.  Apperently when Manly's appendix ruptured (7-10 days prior) it inpacted the mass against his large colon and began to encapsulate the infection to keep it walled off from his abdomen.  Along with the ruptured appendix the Dr removed 10 inches of the large colon, including the ilius valve.  The Dr stated that a surgery like this always ends with the patient being on a colostomy bag (for the rest of their life) but given his age (35) and great health, he had to go for it.  The tissue of Manly's colon was so deteriorated that the Dr said that it was like sewing a wet Kleenex together, and that we will not know how it took until things start passing through. 

I was able to go up and see Manly within the hour.  It was good to just hold him and kiss him.  Manly was quite mad at his recovery nurse because she would not go and get me when he first awoke.  Manly just wanted me there and did not see why he had to wait an hour.  Once I was finally able to go to him he calmed down and was able to relax

***We are a very healthy family that comes from very healthy families.  Let me tell you the whole hospital thing was a trip through a foriegn land with no tour director or guide book.   The suffering and pain of those around us was a shock.***

Things were rocky, but Manly steadily improved over the next few days and we were preparing to go home on Sunday . . . . . When he suddenly took a HUGE step backward.  Manly's intestines stopped working.  Everything that he had been eating was just backing up in his system and causing GREAT discomfort.  Originally the Dr was concerned with a perferation and so Manly had to go through a number of tests and procedures to test the soundness of his intestines (from both ends).  Not so pleasent, but we found there were not leaks.  So, it was decided that the intestines were just "being lazy" after such a trama.  So, we had to convince them to work.  Manly was given an N.G. tube to empty his stomach and a PIC line to deliver nourishment; then we just walked and walked and walked.  We walked the halls (and every one elses' halls) so much I am sure that they would need to repace the carpet. 

Finally 10 days after surgery there were promising signs, and by the 12th day the Dr was agreeable to Manly going home as long as we watched for certain signs and called for any and every concern. 

At the 1 week check that Dr warned us that Manly would most likely have isuues with his colon for the rest of his life.  The valve that was removed aids in "flow control".  Most likely fatty or spicy foods would bother him, he would have bouts of "food poisoning" type symptoms from unusal foods, etc.

At the 6 week check (Manly was on a "regular" diet for the most part) the Dr was just amazed at the speed and extent of Manly's recovery.  The Dr commented:  "I just don't understand how you survived this."  And Manly responded: "I serve a big God and His plans had not yet been fulfilled with me."

***photo removed***

(This is Manly 21 days out of surgery.  Having fun taking pictures with one of the boys.  After so long of being in constant pain, and fighting a recuring infection, it was great to have our old Daddy back.)  

It has been one year since this ordeal.  Manly has completely recovered.  He is certainly back to his old (fun loving, spontnious) self.  Things are a bit different in his system, but to date Manly has had only one "episode" due to his missing valve.  May all the praise, glory and honor be the Lord's!

There is so much more to this story:  All that happened with the children while I was at the hospital 8 - 10 hours each day; My "hit-and-run" accident coming home one evening; The room-mates ( the good the bad and and smelly); Maybe  I will get a chance to write about those later this week (Don't hold your breath though.  It has been over a month since I last wrote.)

I am so thankful for all the time we have had over this past year.  Thank you Lord for sparing my Beloved, for guiding the skilled hands of the surgeon and his staff, for medical technology that caught this bad bugger, for my children having their Daddy still, for a loving God who still works miracles.

Give your loved ones a great big hug for me!

Many Blessings;     Carrie

One of those days (x5)

Have you ever had one of those days . . . . . that ended with a fire engine parked outside you house at 10 p.m.?  Well, we have had a string of "those days" (thankfully not all of them ended with emergency vehicles!)

***photo removed***

Our string of CrAZy days started on Wednesday.  We had a wild thunder, lightning and (finally) rain storm that overflowed our gutters and threatned to invade our basement.  Thanks to the quick shovel work of Hug Bug (11 yo) he and his brothers were able to keep a dry bedroom. 

Thursday:  Due to the crazy weather we decided to postpone our swim date that we had scheduled with Auntie P. until Friday.  We had shopping planned for Friday.  So, that meant that we had to quickly take inventory of our pantries and make out a list for our Once a Month Shopping (it has worked out to be every 3 weeks, but that is far better than every week!).  It was pure chaos as teams of two brothers went in different directions to check out the status of our pantries and report in as to what we needed.  We had a bit of a late start (When well prepared, I am able to get out of the house by 8 a.m.  That way I can avoid most of the crowd.  Today we were out of the house shortly after 9.), but, we were able to shop -- load -- return home -- unload -- and restock the pantries all before 3 p.m.. 

Friday:  The sky was still rather overcast as we gathered our swim essentials -- suits, towels, sunscreen, water toys and two huge goldfish floaties.  Auntie P. and I decided that we should probaly have a "Plan B" in case the skies stay cloudy and the temps refuse to rise.  So, we went to the school yard just across the street from her house and the children (young and old) had a great time playing tag, swinging, sliding, etc.  After our picnic lunch the sun was finnaly able to burn off most of the clouds and so we ventured over to the pool.  It was a bit cool, but we all had a GREAT time swimming, playing, and spending time with Auntie P. 

~Thanks for the wonderful day Auntie the children are still talking about it.~ 

Saturday:  Last night Stink Bug (13 yo) asked if his best friend R. Guy could go downtown to help us with the back-pack ministry that our good friends lead.  Well, the area of town that we would be serving is well know for its gang violence and use of weaponry.  I was a bit concerned about taking my own children down there (The Police Gang Unit was there.), but taking someone else's child was a bit worrisome.  After talking to his mom and telling her the situation, it was agreed that he would come help. 

So, at 8 a.m. we loaded up our lunches and our work-forse (children) and headed to my dear friends' home to help get the "Back--2--School" celebration set up.  There were 700 back-packs (that other volunteers had stuffed with school supplies last weekend) that we needed to get from their house to the park --along with-- dozens of tables and chairs, several "Easy Up" awnings, a snow cone machine, a popcorn machine, puppet stage, worship band instruments, boxes of Bibles and Bible study books, craft supplies, and OH Yeah, ~ lunch for some 700 children.  By 11 a.m. we were ready for the children --who had started lining up at 9:30-- to come through and receive the love of Jesus extended to them through the corporate body of His church.  Each child was given a free back-pack FILLED with school supplies, and was invited to participate in our celbration for THEM!  (It was hard for some of the parents and children to understand that we did this for them because we love and care for them.)  It was a great time to share with them the unconditional love that our Father has for ALL of us.

After the celebration wrapped up we headed out to Manly's parent's farm to pick up our wonderful milk and eggs (lovin' it!)  and then home to make dinner and relax for the rest of the evening.

Did I say "relax"?  Well, just as I was about to hop in the shower (and the hopefully into bed) the young lady (13 yo) next door franticly rang our door-bell to let us know that the street lamp that is between our houses, was on fire.  Her dad was able to extinguish their side of it, we drug out our hose and doused our side and by then the fire engine was rolling up our street.

This past spring the bulb in the lamp needed to be replaced and the city worker could not get the lense off.  So, he punched a hole in the glass and reached through to replace the bulb.  Well, birds saw this as a nice place to make a nest.  (I called the city to let them know what had happened and was assured that their technicians are well trained and that they were certain everything was fine.)  I guess that the nesting material got a little too warm and began to smolder and with the nice hole, plenty of air could get in and there soon was a nice fire . . . pouring out and melting the entire top of the street lamp.   

Finally at 11 I crawled into bed with my little Lady Bug 'cuz . . . . . OH YEAH, I ALMOST FORGOT TO MENTION . . . . . Manly left Saturday morning with Hug Bug (11 yo) for a Father / Son Retreat through Tuesday.  So, he is missing all this "fun" excitement.

Sunday:  Picked up my brother on our way to church and everything was going well.  I had time to talk with friends after service -- very lovely.  It was time to go home so, I  started walking around the church to gather in all my blessings and found Doodle Bug helping Love Bug (9 yo) whom had blood on his hands and clothes, a bit on his face -- crying.  I asked Love what happened and all he could get out was "running . . . the girls . . . door . . . tried to help . . . just so much blood!"  I asked him where the blood was coming from and he said "BEN".  Love Bug is a very tender-hearted fella'.  He was trying so hard to help, but did not know how --this has really shook him up.   **From the information I have since gathered:  Ben and some of the other boys (7-10 yo) were playing some sort of game with the girls and when the boys (with Ben in the lead) came around the corner a door got opened up and Ben ran square into the door knob gashing open his head.**  Ben was rushed off to the ER and received 9 stiches.  He is doing well.  When I called late in the afternoon he was up and about playing with their dog in the back yard.  

I am done with drama for a while.  I think I will just curl up with my Bugs for a while and read a good book (or three or four).  

Blessings my friends;      Carrie

Month of July Update

Five -Gallon Gardening

Back in March, when I usually would have begun to prepare the ground for planting, we thought that we would be moving soon, and therefore would have to abandon our *little* garden here in town.  Well, "soon" is a relative term.  It is now better than half way through the growing season and we are still here.   When May came around and my poor garden plot sat sad and empty I brought an idea to the family:  What if we planted in containers that we could take with us when we move.  Hence the 5-galon buckets.  One of the wonderful by-products of this form of gardening is the ease of weeding.  The only weeds we need to pull are the ones that spout up within the bucket. . . .  "Easy Breezy"  . . .  The rest of the weeds are coverded in grass clippings gathered from the lawn and quickly gotten under control.  (The buckets are now 4 feet apart for ease of watering and picking.)

***photo removed***

Step-blessing update: 

We did our yearly standardized testing the week Doodle Bug returned from his visit with his mom.  The test results came back a week later.  Doodle dropped 7 percentage points.  (We had tested him also in August of '07, and his score last year was not all that high.)  So, I have taken this drop as an indication of how I have taught him.  After 5 months of being in our educational environment I had thought that his scores would be through the roof (a bit of pride there?)  Manly thinks that Doodle did not fully try to put his best effort at it (wanting to "just go home", or his head was still on vacation) because he has markedably improved on all his seat work, quizes and tests.

So, where do we go from here?  That is a GREAT question!  The original plan (back in Feb.) was that Doodle would stay here for 6 months, get his grades up so that he could pass into the 9th grade, and then go back to LV to complete his education.  Well, Doodle does not have passing grades.  He has not yet met the requirement of completing the 8th grade, and will not until Feb. of '09.  Manly shared that information with Doodle and his mom.  Both were unhappy about the news, but could not dispute the facts.  So, IF Doodle goes back to LV it would to attend the 8th grade over again.  Doodle is already at the older end of his class, it would be hard for him to stay back to repeat the grade.  No formal agreement has been made, but I am thinking that Doodle will stay here at least until Feb.  One of the blessings of home-educating:  you can slow down to meet the needs of a struggling student and then pick up the pace, catch-up to where he "should" be and move right along.  I think it will GREATLY benefit Doodle to have the time to fill in the gaps left by his public education.

Warning:  A bit of steam to vent off.  You may want to stand back.

I do not understand how a mother could sit back and watch her blessed child fail out of school for FOUR YEARS and not step in and make a change.  It is our (not the state's)responsibility and privilage as the parents to equip our children with knowledge of our Lord and the word that He created.  I am deeoply saddened that Doodle does not have the basic elementary school foundation of phonics and arithmatic down at the age of 15.  He knows all the "tricks" but not the consepts behind the gimiks to understand how to apply it in the real word.

Okay, I am done.  It is safe to return.    

The ripple (or maybe tsunami) effect of Doodle Bug's negative attitude about staying here has enveloped the entire family.  It is taking a lot of grace and mercy to smooth over the chain reaction of grumpy fellas. I pray that Doodle's heart will be softened that he may see that we are doing this for his best interest; it is a sacrifes on everyone's part.  But, he is worth every bit of the extra effort.

House Project

Back in the middle of June Manly and I attended the Christian Home Educators of Colorado (CHEC) conference for our first time.  It was absolutely wonderful, why did we wait this long?  During the lunch break on the first day the two of us met a morgage broker to turn in our application for financing on our project.  We were assured that with the info. he saw and the type of loan we wanted that it would not be difficult to get a good deal.  The first session Manly sat in on after that lunch break was Doug Phillips speaking about how so many of us cut off the blessing (children) and apply for the curse (DEBT).  Manly's first thought during the session was "What have we done?  We just handed over our information asking . . . begging for the CURSE!" 

Much discussion took place in the weeks to follow.  After 2 weeks of not hearing from the morgage broker, Manly called for an update and found out that 2 of the 3 companies no longer provide the type of morgage we were requesting.   When it came back that the 3rd company also stopped offering that type of morgage (rolling over your construction financing directly into permanent take out, locked in at the rate the loan was started) we were certain that we were not to finance the project.  So, what do we do now?!?!

Before Manly's brother, Buddy, knew about all of this going he had mentioned the idea of paying for the project as we go.   (***Quick little side note:  A while back, Buddy had offered to let us live in his "barn" during the year or so while we build our house.***)  Us paying for the house as we go would take closer to 5-7 years to build.   So, what do we do?  Can we afford to pay a morgage in town and still save enough to build out in the country?  Would Buddy want us *squatting* on his land for that long?  This opened up a whole new set of questions, ideas, fears, ideas, trust (in the Lord), answers, and peace. 

Buddy is okay with us living in his barn (with a few stipulations) for an extended period of time if we are doing so in order to become/remain debt free.  WOW -- what a wild journey this is starting out to be and we have not even broken ground yet!  It looks to be a fun ride ahead.

The house we had drawn up apparently will not stand.  When we bumped the downstairs walls out it changed the load/bearing points.  So, Manly is meeting with the engineer this week to discuss options.  Fun, fun, fun.  I will keep you updated.

Blessings;       Carrie

Lazy Summer Days

There is nothing like the squeal of delight from a toddler playing in water.  Our Busy Bug is forever playing in and pouring out our dogs' water.  That just will not due with all this heat.  So, I needed to find a way to keep him happy, yet out of the dogs' water so that I could get a bit of house work done.  My solution:  an old tractor tire (on an old blanket folded in fourths), lined with a shower curtain.  I feel this is a bit safer than a full size pool for Busy Bug (as he cannot lay entirely down in the water) and he enjoys having the sides to sit on.

 ***photo removed***

On a different note . . . . . I have talked to a number of you regarding the step-blessing situation, but I cannot remember what I told whom.  So, here is a *brief* re-cap:

This have been a bit stressful here lately with my step-blessings.  For a number of months, Doodle Bug (14 yo) has been telling us that he would like to stay here for the rest of his high school education.  The first week of May Doodle's mom called and asked him if he would come "home" for a couple of weeks so that he could celebrate his (half) sister's birthday with them.  All of this was arranged through Doodle without a word said to Manly.  Doodle's Nana called Manly in the mean-time and asked if she could spend the weekend with Doodle while she is in town for a cousin's birthday party.  We told her that we do not have a proplem with him spending time with her, but he is not completing his homework each day and that he would need to get that caught up before taking off any time.  (He would have missed 2 days of lessons.)   Well, Doodle did NOT have his lessons caught up, but Manly gave into Doodle's and Nana's whinning persistance, and allowed Doodle to go, but asked that he be home by 8 p.m. on Saturday so that we can prepare for church.   Nana called at 10 p.m. Saturday night to let us know that they were just now leaving the party and that "It could not be helped".  This did not go over well with Manly and he firmly, (but respectfully) stated that he was not okay with this turn of events.  After Nana returned home (to Las Vegas) Manly received a call from the X -- she was "disgusted by the disrespect that Nana was given".  (I heard this side of the conversation -- it was not that bad, just firm.)  Doodle Bug returned to our home crying that night.  He would not share with us what was going on.  He was in a funk for 2-3 days after the visit.  ***In the past Doodle's mom has been very manipulative with her words and actions.  She uses *gifts* and special events to sway him in things.  When Doodle was younger he had a total break down (to the point of being physically ill)  because he accidently called me "Mom".  We discovered that his mom had been very clear that that was not acceptable.  We do not know what he thought would happen because of such and *offence* but it must have been big for him to "loose it" so badly.*** 

By the beginning of June Doodle let it slip that he was planning to "go home" for a couple of weeks.  So, Manly called the mother and asked what was going on.  After a number of phone calls, it was decided that Doodle could have a SHORT break form lessons to spend time with his mom and her family.  ***The reason Doodle was here was to get his grades up and complete the 8th grade so that he could proceed onto high school.  By taking time off that would only put him further behind.***  All of this was based on the mom's intention of letting Doodle stay here for school for at least another year.  While Doodle was gone our calls to him were not answerd and e-mails were not responded to.  It was not until the day before he was to return that Manly was able to get his flight schedule.  (Red Flag:  this is not right!!!) 

Doodle came back with a totally different countance.  He says now that he doesn't want to be here.  Manly is at a loss.  He wants what is best for his son, but is met with great opposition.  When asked, the mother cannot state what her educational goals are for her son.  She just says that she want him to "be happy and successful".  Manly asked her how she is planning to prepare him for that and she states that she is trying to get him into a VoTech school that is out of her district (because the H.S. that he should, and wants to, go to is less than desireable place to send your child).  So, Manly asked:  "Do you think it is the school's responsiblity to prepare our son for adulthood?"  She sat silent and would not answer.  The next question he asked was:  "If the school is out of district, that mean that he would not have the bus available to him.  So, are you planning to take him to and from school each day?  Your work so consumes your time now that you cannot help him study his homework.  How are you planning to adjust to better meet his increasing needs?"  She felt that was none of his business.  Last night Manly and X talked more about this subject and how what is *good* and *right* is not always *fun* and *easy*. 

I pray that X's heart will be softened and she will see that Doodle NEEDS his father to lead him into manhood; that the education we have here is better than what he had been receiving there (he has been failing out for the past 4 years); but most of all I pray that she will choose to come back to the Lord and seek to please Him with her actions.  No matter what happens with Doodle I will (try VERY hard to) praise the Lord.  For I know that all of this is in His will for some reason . . . to grow us in one way.

Blessings;  Carrie

Happy Birthday, June Babies ! ! !

Happy Birthday Busy Bug and Lady Bug ! ! !

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 My babies are 2 and 4 years old this week.  It seems like just last week that I was 10 days overdue with our littlest man and was upset that Lady Bug would not be able to celebrate her 2nd birthday with a party.  So, this week, I asked Lady Bug if she minded that her brother had a birthday so close to her's.  She said that she liked having "next-door birthdays because they're more fun".  Out of the mouths of babes!

I am not good at doing traditional Baby Books for each of my children.  So, instead I keep a notebook of each child that I update each year (on or near their birthday) with a photo and an information page that has stats.: height, weight, clothes sizes, etc.  As well as what their favorites (food, game, etc.) are this year and what they see themself doing as adults.    

Here is our (not so) little bundle of fun and energy.  Busy Bug is a VERY busy little fella. He is on the go . . . go . . . go all day long.  Whatever his oler siblings are doing he wants to be a part of.  He is also a very happy guy.  Rarely does he cry or fuss (when he does it is usually becuase the oler children are out front and he wants to be also).  He is full of surprises and such a delight to be around.  His favorite foods are yougart and banana;  his favorite toy is the dogs' water; his favorite book is "How to Catch and Elephant".  Thank you little buddy for all your early morning snuggles, baby breath and all.  Thank you for helping me to smile at the little "Uht-ohs", to see that messes can be a lot of fun.  We love you so VERY much, little buddy and are truely blessed to have you as a part of our family.  

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 Here is our Lady Bug in her Easter Dress that I finished in time for her to wear on her birthday.  (Sewing all those button holes put me a bit behind.  ~smile~)  Lady is such a "Little Mama".  She loves to just be a part of preparing meals, directing the running of the household (She instructs the older boys in how to do their chores properly.), helping me with sewing and household projects.  I am greatful, that in our predominately male household, that my little lady came later in the crew.  I feel that I am able to appreciate and savor each little girly moment better than if she were one of the older children.  (Then I would have assusmed that more little girls would follow and I may have taken her femininity for granted.)  Lady Bug is very girly.  She like to wear dresses and bloomers.  She prefers not to get dirty and wet in outdoor play.  Her favorite toy is the "Loving Family" doll house (especially the daughter with her horse.); her favorite food is peanut butter, honey and banana rolled up in a tortilla; her favorite movie is "Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang" (she has only seen the first half -- before intermission); and when she grows up she wants to: "Marry my own Daddy (husband) and then Mommy can be my sister (daughter) and help cook meals and take care of all the boys."  Sweet Princess Sugar Blossom I am truely blessed to call you my daughter.  You have shown me how to think like a little girl again and appreciate the beauty in life and not just the function.  I pray that as you grow so will our friendship.  I would be honored to not only be able to call you daughter, but also friend.  All my love Sweet Princess ! ! !   

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For those of you in Blog-land and my dear friends that have not yet seen our house.  That is it in the background of Lady Bug's picture.  It is less than 1,000 square feet upstairs.  VERY small for a family of 9.  The big boys all sleep in the basement (2 of them are actally in the laundry / utilities room).  So, that is the reason I am sooo excited that we get to build our house this year.  Things are proceeding forward, but just very slowly.  When I have more information I will be sure to share.

Have a great weekend. 

Blessings; Carrie

I'm IT ~ I've been tagged

Michelle at "preciouspeas" tagged me.  So, here goes . . . . .

1.)  Where were you (and what were you doing) 10 years ago?  ~Manly, two little bugs and I were living in a little apartment and looking to buy our first house.  (There was another little one on the way.)  I was doing day care for two families, Manly was building log homes with his dad up in the mountains.  He was often away all week and we saw him only on the weekend.  (Funny how history sometimes repeats itself ~wry smile~.)

2.)  What are 5 things on my "To-Do" list?  ~Our older children are off school for the next two weeks.  So, Manly will take them to work as much as he can so that I can get my "Spring Cleaning" done (now that it is offically SUMMER).  1.) Get business cards ordered/made for Manly;  2.)  Plant the poor pepper plants that are still in the peat pots they came in;  3.) Help my dear friend to clean/organize her home;  4.)  Spring Clean:  the kitchen, the living room, the bedrooms, the playroom, EVERYTHING! ~ tackling one room/area each day;   5.)  Catch up on correspondences ~ I have let too many calls, letters, e-mails sit without a responce.  6.) Make 16 batches of granola ~ the ingredients have been sitting in my pantry for a month. 

3.)  What are some snacks that I enjoy?  Apples and carrots dipped in peanut butter, GORP (raisins, peanuts, dry cereal, and M&M's of equal proportions mixed together)

4.)  What would I do if I were a billionaire?  We truely have a heart for the "widows and fatherless".  We would dump a large amount into our friends' inner-city ministry.  Donate to the battered women's home.  Build our dream home debt free.  Then we would want to adopt as many children as we could and hire the help to LOVE on each precious blessings. 

5.)  Places I have lived:  I have lived in Colorado ALL my life.  I currently live just one mile from the childhood home my parents bought (and still live in) when I was 4 years old.  I went to college for 2 years on the other side of the divide, but that is the furthest I moved away.

Who would I like to tag . . . . . ?  I think everyone I know and whose blog I read has already been tagged.  So, if you have not been tagged yet please answer the questions and drop me a note to let me know that you did so that I may stop in and see what you wrote.

Blessings Friends;    Carrie

Guidance

I attended my first CHEC (Christaion Home Educators of Colorado) Homeschool confrence last weekend.  It was incredible (and completely overwhelming).  I have two fellas going into the ninth grade (officially HIGH SCHOOL!!) next year, and I needed some encouagement and "tools of the trade" from those who have gone before me.  I found both in abundance.  There was almost too much information.  I could not attend the third day.  My brain was full.  So, we purchased the audio recording of the entire confrence.  Now Manly and I can go through it in small chunks, pause and rewind to catch any information we may have missed, and enjoy deep conversations about this wisdom from goldy men and women.

In one of the clinics the speaker/vendor was giving out copies of her magazine.  At home later, reading through it I found an article that was interesting.  I enjoy word pictures, and this provided a good one.  The author is unknow, but this came out of TEACHmagazine.com:

"Guidance"

"When I meditated on the word Guidance, I kept seeing 'dance' at the end of the word.  I remember reading that doing God's will is a lot like dancing.  When two people try to lead, nothing feels right.  The movement doesn't flow with the music, and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky.

"When one person realizes that and lets the other kead, both bodies begin to flow with the music.  One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back or by pressing lightly in one direction or another.  It's as if two bodies become one body, moving beautifully.  The dance takes surrender, willingness, and attentiveness from one person and gentle guidance and skill from the other.

"My eyes drew back to the word 'Guidance'.  When I saw 'G,' I thought of God, followed by 'u' and 'i'.  'God', 'u', and 'i' dance.  God, You and I dance.  As I lowered my head, I became willing to trust that I would get guidance about my life.  Once again, I became willing to let God lead. 

So, I need to trust God and his "Guidance" for lessons next year.  It will most likely be quite the adventure.  Two high-schoolers along with 3 other student in the home AND building our house (things are moving along . . . just slowly).  I am excited to see where and how He will guide us.

Blessings friends;       Carrie 

Two Saturdays This Week

I have been trying to post the rest of our Memorial Day Weekend, but have had a dickens of a time using my Photobucket account.  I did have a few other things that I could share with you while Manly, our older fellas, and I try to figure out how to use Photobucket, and then, hopefully, I will stop loosing previous photos each time I post new ones.  (Any suggestions are welcomed!!!)

June has started out wonderfully.  We are still doing lessons 3-4 days a week, and will most likely continue to do so throughout the summer.  (A number of little set-backs have added up.) 

Monday:  We started week #30 in CORE (there are 36 weeks in the planner ~ almost done with that!)  Then, I did review and lessons with the oldest two fellas.  We are now revisiting those areas that proved the most difficult throughout the school year.  So, it was a long process trying to clearify these problem areas.  After lunch I made a batch of yogart and 4 loaves of banana bread.  The other children were not ready for review and I had a call from a friend who NEEDED a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on.  So, I talked and baked.  So, no one else had one-on-one time with me today.   Manly was able to be home by 3 in the afternoon ~ He had gone up to the high country to oversee / wrap up the final installation of kitchen appliances and fixtures.  Since there was a LOT of daylight left after getting home, he took the biggest fellas over to a local skate park (a reward for having their responsibilities completed although they "did not know the time or hour" that their dad would return.)  Before leaving for the park he asked me NOT to make dinner.  He wanted to treat us to dinner out.  (A local Italian Buffet has a "Children Eat Free" special on Mondays and Tueaday.)   Then at 9 the guys did the bread run for me.  I was feeling rather spoiled ~ I liked it!   

Tuesday:  WARNING:  Graphic Pet Details!!!  One of the puppies had an accident in her crate overnight and then when she went out to go potty for the morning, she was pooping blood.  My first thought was that she was in heat. (She is after all 10 mo. old)  But it was coming from her bottom and only when she squated to go potty.  This was VERY concerning.  I called the vet and was told that she had no openings today due to surgeries, but could be seen tomorrow at 1:30 in the afternoon.  We kept an eye on the puppy and she seemed to be a little off kilter, but still wanted to play and was eating, drinking and pottying.  So, we waited for the Wed. appt.  Manly headed out to his folks place today to work on the shop some more and then out to his brother's farm to clean up some construction trash in preparation to finish the spreading of gravel on the lower level of the garage.  Again he was home mid/late afternoon.  It is rather nice to see so much of him lately.  Started another batch of yogart before going to bed.  We are swimming in milk and I do not want to thow it away.  Since yogart lasts longer . . . I am making yogart.   

Wednesday:   We are done with Dog Class.  Just knowing that helped today to go better.  Dog class is still going on, but we (Manly and I) have decided that the children have fulfilled the requirement we put on them for Obedience Training their puppies.  We feel that due to the puppies being just that, puppies, that it would be best to wait another year before trying to compete in 4-H shows with them.  That will give the puppies another year to settle down and for both the boys and their dogs to practice Showmanship and Obedience techniques.  So, dog class is over for this year (~deep sigh of relief~)  That said . . . We did CORE (from 8 until 10) and then I sat down with the oldest fellas to review.  Neither of them had completed their math assignments.  They are not understanding it.  So, we started with English and Science.  That took the rest of the morning.  Hug Bug took the first piano lesson time slot (our neighbor 2 houses down teaches them) so that he would be home to take his dog to the vet.  After having lunch, he and I headed out with puppy to the vet.  Puppy has "colitus" (sp?), basicly all the compost that she has been eating (we do not know how she is getting into it) has irritated her colon and given her a nausty infection.  Easy to care for ~ 10 days of antibiotic should get her back on track.  (Now to keep her out of the compost.)  It was now 3 in the afternoon and I needed to review with the rest of the guys (Only the top two have had any attention this week) and start thinking about dinner.  Manly called to let me know he was on the road and what time to expect him home.  He is the best!  When I told him that I was overwhelmed withwhat was NOT getting done this week he asked me to tell him 3 things he could do for me when he got home . . . and he did them!

Thursday:  Today my mom stopped by after CORE to spend some time with us.  She only lives 1 mile away, but still we do not see her enough.  She stayed until shortly before lunch.  After lunch I was able to review with the younger guys.  It was a better "school" day.

Saturday #1 (aka: Friday):  Manly took the 5 oldest boys up the hill to help clean the house.  There is an Open House this coming Wednesday and the house is covered in construction dust and debris.  So, he took up our labor force and cleaned the place up.  I took Lady and Busy Bugs and did our once a month shopping**.  Typically when all the guys go off to work it is on a Saturday.  So, all day I was thinking it was Saturday and was gearing up for church tomorrow.  I was delighted each time I remembered that is was in fact Friday and I still had a "real" Saturday tomorrow.  Shopping took from 8 am. until noon.  We went to Sam's Club and FILLED 2 carts (with no big helpers to assist).  After all the cold things were packed into coolers we headed off to Wild Oats to get the fixins for granola and then to the Wal-Mart next door to W.O. (they have the type of sippy cup Busy uses and that the puppies keep chewing up.) Then off to Sears to buy my new vacuum ~jumping up and down with excitement.  Our old one has been struggling for a while and then the other week one of the fellas knocked it into the wall and broke an essential piece off.  So, I looked on Consumer Reports and found a GREAT vacuum at a reasoble price.  It is so fun to have new toys.  And this on the fellas cannot touch.  (Manly fixed the other one "well enough" and the boys can use it to touch up their rooms mid week.)

** Once a Month Shopping is going . . . okay.  The more organized I am the better it goes.  I made a master list of what we tend to go through in a month and then took inventory as to what we had and how many.  Each month I learn something more about how to be more effeiciant and tweek the system to better meet our needs.  Hopefully by the time we move out to the "Farm" I will have the system down and can limit my trips into town.  (I tend to be a home body.  So, this is a double benifit to me.)

Saturday #2:  Manly headed off with 4 of the 5 oldest once again.  (Stink Bug stayed to help me around the house)  This time out to his folks place to unload everything that they brought down the hill and then off to Buddy's to finish the dirt work in the garage.  I had a rather laid back day and was able to have a nice walk even.  Another batch of yogart is going,  Last one for a while I hope.  We now have 21 pints of it.

Sunday:  We headed out to church on time, but needed to get fuel.  So, we knew we would be a bit late.  Half way there we realized that we forgot the milk (2 families at church buy milk from Manly's mom and we are the go-between).  We turned around, went home, got the milk, headed to the fuel station and then to church.  We got there only 3 minutes late.  WOW!  After church we talked with a family we had not ween in a number of weeks for 35 minutes; needed to pick up milk jars at the home one of the families we suppy milk to (they live just 2 blks. from church), stayed there and talked for 20 minutes and then had to stop by our friends' church (they had stayed late for a luncheon) to give them some outgrown clothes and some books; we needed to pick up from them some maternity clothes (not for me) and her carpet cleaner.  By the time we got home it was . . . 2 o'clock?!?!?!  Manly took the oler 4 boys to see the movie "Prince Caspian" and I set to work getting out a terrible stain on our stairs while Busy Bug slept and Lady and Flutter Bugs watched a movie here at home.    

I pray you week was full to the brim and overflowing with blessings;     Carrie  

P.S.:  Most recent batch of yogart did not turn out right.  Maybe the milk is too old.  I am straining it to see if I can make it into cream cheese.  I have never made cream cheese.  I hope it turns out.  That would be fun.

Memorial Day Weekend

The Memorial Day Weekend we spent out on the land.  We camped on my bil and sil place ajacent to our place (they have water and electricity and we do not yet).  Thank you guys for extending these ammenities!

This is our home away from home.  (It belongs to Manly's parents.)  Mama and the two littlest bugs sleep in here . . . . .  

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The fella's sleep in the loft of "Buddy's" barn.  It is a great adventure.  Here is the tent that the teen bugs share with their "Fancy" dog . . . . .

**another vanishing photo**

And this is the tent (at the other end of the 16'x84' loft) that Daddy and the three middle bugs share with their "Emily" dog.  Notice how the top of the support poles are up into the rafters.  The tent just barely fit.  I think there was only 1 inche to spare on either side of the poles.  

**Yep, you guessed it . . . this one also disappeared**

I will share more of the weekend in a later post. 

I want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU  to those who selflessly served our nation by standing up for what our nation stands for; for putting your life on the line so that my children, loved ones, and I may live in freedom.  Thank you for endless sacrifice.

Blessings to you and your loved ones;

Carrie

Children Say The Funniest Things

I had a rough week month and had sat down to write a blog Pitty Party about it.  But after reading what I wrote,  I decided that I would rather celebrate my blessings than dwell on their imperfections.  So, I thought I would share with you how they make me smile (and sometimes laugh out loud).

"Why does Baby Bug have a nose?" asked my Flutter Bug when he was 5 years old.  "Well, sweetie why do you have a nose?" I returned.  After a bit of deep thought he replied, "If I did not have a nose then when I sneezed I would probably explode.  I am glad that the baby will not explode!"

Our Love Bug has always had quite the imagination.  When he was 5 years old (that is sure a fun age!) he would wear his wooden sword, that his daddy made for him, in his belt everywhere he went.  I asked him one time if he always had his sword with him.  "Yes, I even sleep with it," was his reply.  "Why do you sleep with it Love?"  I asked.  He shared with me, "There are pirates that live under my bed and I need to be ready."  I was a bit concerned for my little man's safety and asked if the pirates scare him.  He casually replied, "No, not really.  Most days they sleep in and I am ready before they are."

Grandma had come in from the cold one evening and Hug Bug (almost 4 years old), fresh from a bath, was sitting in only a towel on the couch.  Grandma said, "I have very cold hands, where should I put them? (on a naked tummy?)"  Hug Bug became very concerned and blurted out, "In . . . uh . . . (deep breath) some mittens!"

Flutter Bug (5 years old) sat down with Daddy to watch some football.  He sat directly between Daddy and the television.  Daddy said, "Little buddy, I cannot see now.  You are blocking my view."  Flutter Bug thought about this and responded, "Then I will tell you what is happening.  One of the big red guys is trying to throw the ball and the other big guy is trying to take it from him . . . . "

We borrowed my in-laws Suburban to drive to California for my sister-in-laws collage graduation (this was a number of children ago).  The one rule was that we could not have any food or drink in the car because they did not want any spills.  We set up a bed in the back so that we could take turns sleeping on the trip.   Stink Bug (then 2 1/2 years old) was not feeling well.  When we stopped for breakfast Nonnie (Grandma) insisted that Stinky eat something (or at least drink some orange juice).  When we started driving again I curled up with the little guy in the back to try to get him to sleep some more.  All of a sudden he started crying, "I spill my tummy, I sorry, I spill my tummy!"  He had thrown up and did not want to be in trouble with Nonnie.

There are many more, but I will end with this one.  Hug Bug (5 years old) had been caught lying, and was sent to Mom's room for a spanking.  When I arrived to administer the discipline, Huggie was in tears.  Through the tears he sobbed, "I said the sinner's prayer, but I am still a sinner, what am I gonna do?"  That broke my heart.  As I was hugging my little man he asked, "So, are you going to have grace?"  (Of course I had to!)

Children are a blessing from the Lord.  I am thankful that my cup runnith over with such cute and snuggle-able blessings.  

Missing my Man . . . and . . . Teething Troubles

Hubby~  Manly has been working crazy long hours while his parents went on their "Trip of a Lifetime" to Greece and Turkey.  (Manly is the supervintendant on one of his dad's jobs ~ a VERY large job.) To boot, while his dad was gone Manly caught the terrrible chest cold we all had here.  He could NOT take time off to rest so that he would get better, so it has drug on and on . . . . .  Now that Dad is back in the country things are still pretty crazy as they try to wrap up this project, but now his dad is there to help with the responsibility.  ~big smile~  We are hoping that Manly's duties will be done "up in the high country" here in the next couple of weeks.  Then he will be able to work out on his parent's land / house / shop / office projects (only 20 miles away) AND he will be able to come home every night instead of only twice a week.

Children~  We have had a lot of teeth issues lately.  Our oldest, my step-bug, (14 yo) got braces this past Monday.  When he was 5 years old he had his two front teeth knocked out while playing tether-ball at school.  It took a year and a half before the adult teeth grew in.  We were told that without those baby / "milk" teeth to support the adult teeth during developement, that is what caused the teeth grew in crooked -- at a 45* angle.  He is VERY excited to get this process underway.  (Although he was not to sure for much of this week with all the discomfort.)  We found out from the Dentist (during a routine cleaning) that our Stink Bug (he chose the name and assures us that the smell is simply "muscle exhaust") (13 yo) does NOT need braces as originally thought.  Everything has adjusted on their own as he has grown, lost more baby teeth, and grown more adult teeth.  The next bug down, our Hug Bug (11 yo) and our Flutter Bug (6 yo) do not seem to have any teeth at this time.  They are missing 4-6 teeth each.  Love Bug (8 yo) and Busy Bug (almost 2) are both cutting teeth ~ a full set of 4.   Love bug is getting molars and Busy is getting his eye teeth ~ ouch!!! This makes for an interesting meal-time.  There are a lot of soft foods on the menu.   Lady Bug (almost 4) has escaped all the teething issues. 

Building Project~  Seems to be on hold at the moment as Manly gets things wrapped up "in the high country".  He has made a number of contacts though that are willing to pass along their trade discounts.  The plumber alone will be able to save us 40% on the cost of materials and supplies.   Our next step is to submit for permits.  We think that this will take 6-8 weeks to get taken care of.  That is just about how much work there is out at Manly's folk's place.  God does have perfect timing!

School~  We will wrap up or 3rd quarter this week.  Manly's health ordeal back at the beginning of the school year put us behind 6 weeks, and I have not been able to re-gain those weeks.  So, we are thinking that we will need to just push on through the summer with school.  We will do a modified schedule that will accomidate building and studing.  What an adventure!!! 

Garden~  We have had a number of dinner-time conversations as to whether or not we should plant a garden this year.  Most of the children and I are in favor of it.  Manly and one of the older children think we should pass and wait until we are settled out on the Homestead next year.  They do not want us to go to all the work of a garden and then have to leave it behind if we move before harvest.  I do not want to play the "what if" game and think that we should just "go for it".  I enjoy the time of harvesting the "fruits of our labor" and the beauty of the canned goods staring out at me from the pantry; the time spent weeding to pray, think and ponder; about lessons learned ~ sin is like weeds: difficult to get rid of and ready to return uninvited.  So, we decided to plant some of the (75'x15') garden, but we have not decided exactly what we will plant and what we will do without this next year.  Decisions . . . Decisions!

Five Family Rules

I have been asked to share a bit of how our home runs; our family philosophy on different things.  I have hesitated to share for concern of sounding like we have "it" all figured out.  We don't!!!  We live in a house full of sinners (including ME).  But, I would be happy to share some things that we are learning along our journey.

I would like to share our Five Family Rules.  These are our family standards.  (These are rules that must be obeyed while "under my roof".)  And are to adhered to in ADDITION to the mandates of the Bible.  (Which we pray the children will carry with them throughout all their life.)  We have been using these rules for a number of years.  Recently I have changed a few of the verses that we have associated with each.  The older children have become complaisant with the previous verses and are facing new challenges as they grow into young men.  New/different verses are helpful in providing a new perspective and additional wisdom.  (So, if you have suggestions they would be appreciated.)

Honor:  1.) to respect greatly;  2.) to show high regard for -- Webster New Word Dictionary 

"Honor your father and your mother (as the Lord your God has commanded you), so that you may live long (and that it may go well with you) in the land the Lord your God is giving you." -- Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy 5:16 (that which is in parenthesis)

Obedience:  True obedience is:  1. immediate;  2. exact;  3. cheerful.  (Anything else is disobedience and should be addressed as such.)  Our children are to obey first and may discuss later. 

"Children obey your parents in the Lord for this is right." -- Ephesians 6:1  ;  "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." -- Colossians 3:20

Respect:  Our children are expected to treat others as they would have others treat them.  The Duggar Family has an acronym that we have borrowed.  Our children are encouraged to serve one another with JOY.  Jesus first, Others second and Yourself last.   

"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.  Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope you have.  But do this with gentleness and respect." -- 1 Peter 3:15  ;  "A kindhearted woman gains respect, but a ruthless man gains only wealth." -- Proverbs 11:16  ;  "Even a child is know by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right.." -- Proverbs 19:11  ; 

Excellence:  We do not expect our children to be THE best; we do however expect them to be THEIR best.  We try not to dwell on "things of this world", but instead think on those things that bring glory to God.  Anything worth doing is worth doing well.

"His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.  Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."  --  2 Peter 1:3-4  ;   "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things."  --  Philipians 4:8

Gratitude:  We agree with Bob and Larry:  "A happy heart is a thankful heart."

"Do everything without complaining or arguing (grumbling)." -- Phil 2:14 ;  "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with such things as you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave your; never will I forsake you (Deut. 31:6).'" --Hebrews 13:5  ;  "You get what you get; your happy about it (and you don't throw a fit)." -- unknown ;

***Please do NOT think that Manly and I are perfect and are sucessful in raising perfect children.  My husband and I fall short of these standard, ourselves, far more than I care to admit.  We are dirty sinners in great need of forgiveness from our glorious Savior.  These rules are our attempt to instill in our children our morals and ideals; to prepare them to be productive citizens prepared to change the world to honor and glorify our Lord and Savior.

Family Farm Day

 We packed up the family and the dogs and headed out to our land to lay out where we want to build our house. 

This first picture is as you head west down the drive.  Our van is facing north to south and when we pull into our garage we will face west.  The van is parked just north of were the garage will be. 

~photo here~

This second photo is looking south-east.  This is what we will see as we look out our bedroom window.

 ~photo here~

 The final photo is looking west.  This will be our view from the Dining / Great room windows.  Long's peak is just beyond those trees.  Our home will be slightly elevated on the back (north-west corner).  We should be able to see most of the mountains from the main level and certainly from the upper bedrooms.

  ~photo here~

 We are so very excited.  My Manly is ready to dig.  He is just chomping at the bit. 

Blessing;

Carrie

Updates

I have mentioned a number of things in previous blogs that I have left you hanging on.  So, I would like to uppdate you on our House Project; whether we have been successful with Once A Month Shopping; show you we organized the storage room to address All That Clutter; about the Health of our household.

House Project:  The achitecht has finished drawing the plans and we LOVE them.  So, now they are off to the engineer to make sure that everything is structurally sound and do-able.  There should not be any issues.  We are not doing anything fancy.  It is a simple, yet beautiful Cape Cod style home.  The boys will have their "Barracks" in the 27.5' x 17' space above the garage.  Our Lady Bug's and the Guest room will be upstairs of the main house.  Everything seems so BIG as we are looking at the plans.  The new house is less than 4,000 square feet, yet will be more than doubling our living space from what we have now.  We liked this plan because of the main floor Master Suite.  When all the children have grown and moved out my Manly and I can comfortably live on the one level. It is a very straight forward and comfortable house.  The next step is to get the "Site Plan" stating where on the land our house will sit, the we will get the permits for the well, electrical, and septic.  So, that is what we are working on now. 

Clutter:  It is amazing how much stuff a family can aquire over 9 years.  We have been slowly going through all the stuff that is everywhere . . . in the storage room . . . in our bedroom . . . in the children's bedrooms . . . in the garage and sheds.  I have been getting rid of everything that I have not used in the past year and will not use in the next 4 months.  My Manly is not as willing to part with his "collections".  Some of the children are better at purging than others.  So, we gave each of the older 5 boys a clear bin that will fit under their bed.  They can keep whatever fits in that box, with the lid on.  That way they can decide what is important to keep and what they can do without.  I have organized the storage room so that I can put pantry over-flow items down there.  I have three 2'x2'x5' shelves to hold all the dry and canned goods. 

Shopping:  Speaking of storing all those groceries . . . The once a month shopping is going better than I had expected.  It still needs some tweeking, but I like the freedom of NOT having to go out every week to get goods.  (I have been making it every 3 weeks.)  I am not one to make a menu for the month and shop accordingly.  I am not that creative/organized/structured in regards to meals.  And now that the older three fella's are each cooking dinner once a week, we need a more flexable "menu".  What I have found to work is a "Master Shopping List" that states how much of each item we typically go through in a month.  The evening before we go shopping my helper takes inventory of what we have and then I know what we need more of.  The only challenge I am having with shopping once a month is fine tuning the list.   I am getting there though.

Health:  I think I am finally winning the battle against Bronchitis.  I have gained a new sympathy for those who suffer with chronic health issues.  It has been nearly a month that I have not been able to sustain a "normal work load" (not to mention not being able to go on a walk ).   I have decide to pray for my friends and family with chronic health issuses while I am trying to catch my breath after bringing up a load of laundry; when I am sad about not being able to accompany my neighbor on our afternoon walk; when I am lying awake at night just trying not to cough because a coughing fit will cause me not to be able to breath.  I am truely bless with an abundance of health and I have gained a new appreciation for that wonderful mercy from the LORD! 

Van:  We were able to purchase a 15 passenger van with our tax refund.  Everyone is very excited, but for Mama, this is huge.  Since the first of the year my two babies have been riding in the trunk of our Suburban (they fit the best because they are the smallest and with their car seats Manly assured me that they are safe.).  We have an extra seat that is bolted into the frame of the vehicle into the rear space (facing backwards).    It was legal and (supposedly) safe, but I did not like it every time I buckled them into the TRUNK!  Now everyone can ride in the passenger space of the vehicle and has elbow room to boot.

Well, I should probably get back to cleaning, organizing, purging in the children's rooms.  So . . . . . my blogging break needs to be over.

Blessings Friends;

              Carrie

Spending time with each child

We have 7 children.   That means 7 VERY different personalities are 7 different ways of dealing with life issues, 7 different ways of processing joy, sorrow, anticipation, and disappointment.  There was a while in there that one of our very quite, introverted fellas was looked over much of the time.  It seemed that the squeaky wheels were getting the attention and this fella didn't want to make a fuss about getting pushed aside.  (It makes me cry just remembering back to that time.  The guilt is terrible, but God and my precious Love Bug have forgiven me.)  Well, when I realized what I had done I immediately invited my Love Bug to have movie night in bed with me and have a slumber party in my room, asked for his forgiveness and  prayed myself off to sleep asking the Lord to show me how to keep this from happening again.

The solution that He showed me was simple yet profound.  It not only helps avoid children from being over looked, it also helps certain children from being over worked.  I have each of the 5 older children be my special assistant one day of the week.  For ease of remembering on my part, I start with my oldest child on Monday and work my way down.  (My little Lady Bug is my "helper" on the weekend.)  The Special Helper's duties include, but are not limited to:

1.)  Busy Bug Patrol:  They help out with our toddler during CORE time.  Help him to be quiet and not to hit anyone with the toys that he is playing with.  Help during meal preparation, time keeping him entertained (and safe if playing out-doors).

2.)  Hoppers:  For meals they set the table, place out condements (if needed) and get drinks.  During the meal if there is anything we need at the table that was forgotten they "hop" up and grab it for us.  They also get the coveted seat at the table.

3.)  Meal Prep.:  For the older children that want to cook the meal for our family, I watch Busy Bug and offer the chef advice and guidance.  This has become a popular option lately.  It is fun for both the children and I to explore this new arena.

4.)  General Assistance:  Throughout the day when something comes up that I need assistance with I call upon our special assistant.  This could include taking the stroller (left out form our walk) into the back yard for the younger children, to riding their bike the 3 miles to Office Max to pick up the printer cartridge that flat out died as I was printing out this weeks lessons (the oldest boys with a buddy).

5.)  Special Time:  During the 9 o'clock hour I try to have one-on-one time with the day's  Special Helper just to talk about what is on their heart.  Most times it is superficial daily things, but a couple of times I have had a great life lesson heart-to-heart talk.  Having been ill these past couple of weeks, and needing to get myself to bed early, this time has been sacrificed.  Both the children and I have greatly missed it.

Speaking of my illness . . . . I have tried for one week to kick this gunk on  my own.  It is not wanting to go anywhere.  So, I went to the DR today.  He confirmed my self-diagnosis of Bronchitis and put me on 3 different meds. (he wanted to a fourth -- a cough med, but the coughing I can easily manage with some tea with lemon and honey in it.)  I am not a big fan of antibiotics (I think there is a link between over use of antibiotics and the increase of auto-immune diseases/disorders), but if I cannot kick something on my own in a week, it is time to seek the assistance of medical profesionals and utilize the intelligence that God has granted us. 

Well, my Manly and the older fellas are back from Dog Class.  I am going to spend time with them before bed.  I pray health and happiness over you and your loved ones.

Blessings;     Carrie 

The Speechless Teacher

We, like most of you, have had the yucky gunk going around our house.  Our's was a nausty chest cold and the cough that hangs on for weeks.  We all got sick early last week.  So, by this week we were well on the mend.  For me though things turned ugly.  Monday I was not feeling great, but was able to do most everything.  I just needed to take a nap still when the little ones did.  Then Tuesday I was feeling rather tight in my chest and alomst a bit sick to my stomach.  My cure-all is to go for a walk.  So, that is what I did.  It was a very slow walk; I was having a hard time breathing.  Then at the playground I had a hard time keeping up with our 20 month  old to make sure he did not head for the "big kid" areas.  Tuesday night was a rough one.  I had to really focus on my breathing and sleep sitting up.  Wednesday was much the same as Tuesday; again we went for a walk.  I just knew that fresh air and exercise would help me kick the last of this.  Well, at the half way point (1.5 miles from home) I could not breath!  I had to really focus on the walk home just to breath in for one step and out on the nest step.  By the time we got home I was breathing in for three steps and out for three.  I called Mom (who has a rescue inhailer that I could use) hoping that she would be getting off from work soon.  (We live half way between her work and her home.)  GOD IS GOOD!!!  Mom was just down the street from me when I called.  She was soon here with meds in hand.  Long story short . . . . . I have Bronchitis (Asthmatic Bronchitis to be exact).  It is something I have had twice before, but not in the last 9 years.  So, I missed all the warning signs.  I am now feeling MUCH better. 

All of this made doing lessons interesting.  Since talking makes me cough and coughing makes me unable to breath, I have been a "Speechless Teacher".  The most I have been able to talk is a whisper and only for 10-20 minutes at a time.  The children have been GREAT.  They have really stepped up to fill the need of caring for the little ones and being my voice.  I often times have to catch whoever is nearby and ask him/her to holler down the stairs/into the back yard for who I am in need of.  They think this is sort of funny since most times I tell them: "Go down/out and tell them.  I could have hollered if that was what I wanted."

I think God gives us Independent Spirits trials like this so that we are forced to depend on others.  It is good to let, even need, others to serve us.

Praying Health and Happiness for you and your loved ones;

Carrie

Unexpected Day Off

Now normally we would not see St. Patrick's day as a reason to take off from school.  This year we had reason though.  I had the wonderful opportunity to be a Labor Coach / Dula for a dear friend.  It was amazing witnessing the miracle of birth from a  different perspective.  Aimee had to have a C-section with her previous child and was determined to have a 100% natural birth this time.  (You are awsome girl- friend)  I sat with Aimee all day yesterday as her once very steady labor fizzled out.  Then at 3:30 this morning I got the call that she was unmistakeably in real (hard) labor.  I grabbed by backpack and off I was (after dear Manly cleaned off the snow and ice from car for me).  Aimee had wanted to stay at home and labor as long as possible.  Her goal was to make 5 cm before going to the hospital.  When we arrived, she was at a good solid 9.  WOW!  One problem:  When she was not pushing, she stayed at a 9, but while pushing her "naughty cervix" would swell shut to a 6.  Very frusterating for her.  After some coaxing and persuading Little man was born at 5:54 a.m.  He is so beautiful.  I know you have to say that about your frineds' children, but he REALLY is that beautiful.  It was a wonderful experience.  I am blessed that my dear friend wanted to share it with me.  Finally at noon I headed home for a nap.  I know I did not do nearly as much work as the new mama but, I am achy and tired.  Go figure. 

Well, I am off to love on my dear little ones.  Maybe we will curl up with my littlests and a warm blanket and a stack of books.  Blessings to you and your loved ones this week.

In Him;

Carrie  

A Day In My Life: 14 March

Miss Shan at "Honey Hill Farm" invited us to join her and Miss Jenny at "Little Jenny Wren" in sharing with one another on the 14th of each month what a "Day In My Life" looks like.  Well, here is what my blessings and I did today:

6.27 a.m.:  I got out of bed (27 minutes) late; read Ecclesiastes 4 and John 11; prayed for my husband's "Health" and "Protection" and the children "Developing a Hunger for Things of God" and "Being the Person God Created" (I am using Stormie Omartains' books to help me with praying for my loved ones each day of 2008)

7.10  :  Breakfast:  banana bread (that Little Princess helped me bake last night) and kefir smoothies

7.40  :  Quick Clean the kitchen

7.50  to  10.20  :  CORE (Sonlight Curriculum) with all 7 children.  Love Bug was on "Busy Bug Patrol" he helped our Busy Bob not to get into everything

10.20  to  10.40  :  Talked with a dear friend that is struggling with a major decision and wanted to get an unbiased opinion; gathered books for review with the oldest two boys while talking

10.40  to  11.50  :  Reviewed with the oldests; tring to get on the new schedule that Manly and I worked out while on our get-away is taking a bit of getting used to (I am being more consistant and the boys liked the relaxed, grace that was relyed heavily upon previously);  there was a lot that was incomplete and needed to be done before lunch.

Noon  :  Make lunch:  left overs

12.20  :  Biggest fella's eat lunch while little ones have recess and I snuggle little "Busy Bug" and have some special time with him.  He is such a great little cuddler.  I nearly fell asleep also and had a hard time getting back to doing reviews.  

1  to 3  :  Review with my fifth grader.   He was struggling with some concepts a couple weeks back and so we spent extra time working through those things.  Now he is a bit behind and we are needing to do two-a-days to try to catch up.  So, review was a bit lengthy today.   

2.20  :  Manly came home from work early.  It was a surprise.  We were not expecting him until dinner time.  We all miss him very much.  It is hard when he has to spend nights away from home.  Well, I was able to finish review with my 5th grader with the promise that the sooner we finish the sooner he can go have "Daddy Time" and the other boys would then need to review with me.

3 to 4 :  Worked with both my 1st and 3rd graders (hard to do both at the same time, but we were behind schedule) 

4 :  Had a nice family walk.  Our sweet neighbors were able to join us.  It is fun for the boys to have their friends to ride their bikes/skate/etc. with

5 : Home from the walk/playing at the park.  Turned on the potatoes that I had peeled and chopped while the boys were re-working math problems during review.  (I had put pot roast in the Crock-Pot earlier in the day.)  Tidyed up the house real quick (I usually like to have this done befroe Manly comes home, but he surprised us to day.), finished the last preps for supper and set the table for:  Pot Roasts with carrots, mashed potatoes and gravy.

6 :  Supper, yumm!

6.45  :  The boys started evening chores and I finaly got some one-on-one time with my man.

7.30  : Start getting the youngest two ready for bed while the oldest wraped up evening chores

8  :  Everyone in bed (even Daddy) and I have time to sit down to pay bill, type up and/or copy lessons for next week, catch up on Care Group e-mails, etc.

10 :  I am finally off to bed.

I have enjoyed spending a day in your life as I read each of your entries.

Blessing to you all for a great 15th of March;

Carrie