Wednesday, December 31, 2008

electronic games vs. reading

Rebekah is off to swimming this morning. Elsah is getting into my kitchen cabinets and Isaac wants to play Wii. Get the word ....wants to play. I have really enjoyed wii b/c it lets everyone around interact with one another and compete in all different events. We just received "the outdoor adventure game" and it is awesome. Isaac's favorite is jump roping. Mine too! You definately get some exercise which is good on the cold days. However, I have found that you need to limit all types of "electronic games" to promote healthy growth of the mind and increase awareness of all the wonderful non electronic age activities, like reading. I have found with my kids that when given no other choice but to either read or listen to a book/story on tape while doing something with there hands they learn to enjoy other forms of entertainment. This is where enjoyment of learning starts. If you get them to enjoy reading then they can tackle anything they want to know about.

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Into a New Land

Into a New Land. John Smith, Jamestown, The Powhatan Indians, Pocahontas are just the beginning topics of what we'll cover in our new unit. We will be learning many composers as well. The first composer will be Vilvaldi. I was amazed as I started to listen to this music that I remember hearing it at the Fresh Market during the Holidays. Such beautiful music.

We are also starting to read: Call it Courage. Currently, Rebekah and Isaac are listening to Huckleberry Finn on tape. I have found that the library has so many books on tape which are awesome for Isaac. He loves to listen to the stories.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Yes it's been very very busy here at the Luther house. I decided to go international with some of the cookies this yr. from the Food network!
Florentines (Italy)
Kourabiedes (Greece)
These were amazing recipes! I must say that these cookies taste just like store bought but better! I did make a couple of regular christmas cookies like cut out sugar cookies. The kids loved it. They cut them out and then they would decorate them with red or green icing! My other favorites are two that come from the food network.
Paradise Macaroons
Chocolate covered snow peaks

Oh my! These were to die for!

Check out http://www.foodnetwork.com

Monday, October 20, 2008

Water Survey!!

SUBJECT: Help with Water Survey!The Microbots are a First Lego League team from NC, USA with 6 homeschooled team members ranging in age from 11 to 13 yo. This is their third year of competing and each year brings new challenges and learning opportunities. Along with Lego Mindstorm robotics and programming, the First Lego League competition involves a research project based on some topic of interest worldwide. This year the topic is Climate Connections and the project is to identify some way climate is affecting teams' local communities as well as another community in the world, research the problem and come up with a solution. (More about First Lego League can be found at: http://www.firstlegoleague.org/ .)Our team has decided to focus on water conservation in the Cary/surrounding area and in Brisbane, Australia. They have created an on-line survey to ask people about water conservation/water use. The survey is open for 2 weeks (until November 3) and they're hoping to get a large response. You can find the survey link at their website at: http://water4tomorrow.org/ Please take 5 to 10 minutes to help the team by filling out the survey. Thank you! And feel free to pass this email on. The kids are hoping to hear from as many people as possible from around the world. They have a map on their website to check what parts of the world visitors are coming from and it's fun to watch the dots spread!

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Meal Plan for week of 9-29 through 10-5

This week is a busy week for us so it's crockpot week!!
The kids really like the first two crockpot meals!! We'll see about tonights..

Sunday: Crockpot Mac and cheese
1 16 ounce box elbow macaroni
1 T vegetable oil
1 can evaporated milk
1 1/2 cup milk
4 1/2 cups cheddar cheese
1/2 cup melted butter

Cook macaroni and drain. Grease bottom and sides of slow cooker. Place hot macaroni and oil in slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients. Reserve 1/2 cup of cheese. Stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours. sprinkle rest of cheese before serving.

Monday: Crock Pot London Broil

2 lbs london broil
1 can of tomato soup
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 package of Lipton onion soup
Cook 8-10 hours on low.

Tuesday: Left overs

Wednesday: BBQ chicken drumsticks in crockpot
http://www.crockpot-recipes.com/main/bbq-chicken-drumsticks.html

Thursday:
Spaghetti with french bread

Friday: left overs

Saturday: Out to eat

Enjoy!!

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Great Deals this week!!

Ok....so I shopped at Lowe's Food this week. This was the last week for there monthly coupons and I was able to use them with the coupons I had too!Here's a run down:

Campbells Bowl of Tomato soup: 2
Lowe's Food Diced tomatoes 28 ounce : 2
Tomato Soup (campbells): 4
Vanilla Wafers: 1
Fruity Cheerios: 4
Spaghetti O's: 2
Sweet and Salty bars (Nature Valley) : 6
Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables: 3
Lowe's Food Hashbrowns: 2
Lowe's Food Potato Fries: 2
Ibuprofen: 1
Electrosal Tablets: 2
Melitta Cone Filter: 1
Sausage Patties: 2
Sausage Links: 2
Hot Sausage Roll: 1
Banana's: 1 at 2.38 lbs.
English Muffins: 4
Lowe's Food Cheese Slices: 2
Eggland's Eggs: 1
Potato: 1
Gala Apples: 3 pound bag
Lettuce: 1
split chicken Breast: 1 package
Pecan Sandies: 1
Taco Bell Kit: 1
Slicing Tomato: 1

Total: 69.38
Saved: 76.45

Delete It

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

You know how you search and search recipes trying to find the perfect one to make
...well I m back to using my one cookbook Better Homes and Gardens. I've had this cookbook since I've been married. I think my mother gave it to me for a gift and I have used it but I really haven't. So, this weekend I started to search through it. Wow! All the great recipes that I have been searching for are right there in front of me. They have been sitting on my shelf for years. I usually use this cookbook to find substitutions or if I needed to know info about a cut of meat etc...but now I'm looking at it in a new light. ....

Here is my weekly menu plan right from Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook...

Monday: Sloppy Joes (fast)
http://www.bhg.com/recipe/beef/sloppy-joes/

Tuesday: Meatloaf with Coleslaw, fruit on the side and a veggie

Wednesday: Super Burritos
http://www.bhg.com/recipe/beef/super-burritos/

Thursday: Sub night at Harris Teeter....1/2 club sandwich for 2.50 not bad!!

Friday: I work so Craig will make something....

Saturday: Chili Pasta Skillet or left overs
http://www.bhg.com/recipe/beef/chili-pasta-skillet/

Sunday: I work...Craig makes dinner.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Triples at HT!

Today was the first day of Triples. I did three total shops and Im done!

Here they are:

Betty Crocker cookie mix: 3
Success Rice : 3
Quaker Oats old fashion 18 oz: 2
Dole Peaches: 1
Ortega soft taco kit: 2
Kikkoman soy sauce: 3
Snyders Pretzel sandwiches: 1
Hormel Chicken strips:1
Ortega Fajita seasnoning packets: 2
French's Fried Onions: smaller size 3

Total before coupons: 63.46 Out of Pocket: 13.86


Tropicana OJ 89 0unce: 3
Quaker instant oatmeal: 2
Pam spray: 3
Betty crocker cookies: 3
Speed stick: 1

total: I can't find receipt but with the OJ alone total would've been 15.00
Out of pocket: around 14.00

Quaker breakfast squares: 1
Chinet plates 25 c0unt: 3
Jello singles: 1
skippy peanut butter: 1
domino sugar 2 lbs: 1
Carnation evaporated milk: 2
coffee mate small one: 1
Jif PB: 1
Chef boyardee microwaveable meals: 9
Ketchup: 1
soft and dri: 1
Colgate toothpaste: 1
Mach 3 shaving gel: 1
Qtips: 1
ANd one other item that is not counted for and is on the receipt but has a wierd name.

Total before coupons: 64.45 total after : 26.69

I am totally thrilled!

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

We're back!




Wow! It has been two months since my last post! So many things have happened since.

1-We went to Halifax Canada to see Craig's family. We spent two wonderful and pleasant weeks there. While we were there we went to an area called White Point. They had bunnies hopping all over (which is a big attraction for kids) and the ocean ( which was freezing cold to us southerners) You would be amazed. Kids were in the ocean for a longgggg time! Our older two went in for a little bit but we had to take them in the hot tub to warm up.

We all had a wonderful visit seeing everyone! It's so nice to have all the cousins get together to play. Total of 10 right now on Craigs side. On my side we have 6 cousins.


2-We started school back again. Rebekah is in sixth grade this yr and it's going to be demanding. She has been doing pretty well and enjoys her new curriculum. The most important thing is her Lego League which she is involved with. They have a competition to prepare for which is in December. I have a feeling most of her time will be working on the Climate research and the robot runs.

Isaac started Kindergarten as well. He is actually in the "First" grade with the work he is doing. He is doing really well at reading and writing and Math!


3-To top this all off we got a cute little puppy named Indie! Short for Indiana. We got her from an awesome breeder of Labradoodles in Charlotte. She was 8 weeks when we got her on the 31st of August.


So, as you can see it's been sooo busy on our end. I m trying to enjoy the moments I have with the wee little ones and the little puppy. They grow up so fast!


I've been working on meal plans which I hope to put on the blog soon! I tried to do monthly meal plans but that didn't work. Im finding the only one's that work are the weekly meal plans.


Tuesday, July 22, 2008

some new pics...



start of a new school yr






This has been a crazy and quick summer break! It seems very short to me but we have been off for a while. We started school back last week. My plan is to be on a yearly schedule. Here are some pictures of what we will tackle this year.
Plus A New World Adventure which is a Unit Based study. www.learning-adventures.org Rebekah has thrived on this approach and has begged me not to change. It feels good to start fresh. The kids are rested and ready to tackle big challenges.
My goals for myself:
1-menu planning
2-go to Precepts conference in the next year
3-lose 10 lbs and feel like I'm not depriving myself of any food
4- inductive bible study with Rebekah
5-not to put to much on our calendar
6-Fly Lady www.flylady.com
7-get up at a decent time (preferrably 7am)
8-take time to smell the roses with my children

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Elsah is now starting to do the army crawl, getting up on hers knees and taking a step. She can pull herself to a standing position too! I wonder if she'll crawl or walk first. Who knows. In this picture, Daddy was having a fun time with her!

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

another Great Blog....check it out!!!

I am amazed at all of the weekly meals already listed with links!! Also, homemade baby food!!

Just click on the title...it should highlight.

It's amazing what little one's say!!

Last night Isaac had me laughing. It's hard for anyone to make me laugh so this was pretty amazing!!! I was picking up the kitchen after dinner and Craig was getting Rebekah and Isaac ready to go swimming. You see, for the past couple of weeks I've been wanting to get a new bathing suit since I still some poundage to lose after Elsah. (Maybe I can fit into my old one....I'm just scared to try) So, I've told Isaac that I'll be getting a new bathing suit soon and then we can go to the pool. Well, last night Isaac was asking about the bathing suit from last yr.(my pregnancy one) and I told him that one doesn't fit anymore. I said, "Isaac, while you are gone I'll try on my bathing suit to see if it fits yet and when you get home I'll let you know." Isaac says, "I think God is going to work a miracle!" I was laughing so hard. See, yesterday they were at VBS and he learned about Jesus healing the blind man and that it was a miracle. It's just amazing to me how little one's see things differently.

It

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Tadpoles to Frogs

Two weeks ago, Rebekah and Isaac were at our little creek near our home and found some tadpoles. This finding started a new and exciting time in our home. I wanted Isaac to see how the tadpoles changed into frogs. I've never done this before, so I had to do some research. On the week Rebekah and Craig were gone, Isaac and I went to the Pet store. We got an aquarium, food, rocks, conditioner and some plants. That's what I read would be okay for the tadpoles. However, the water was very dirty and after a day and they just didn't look ok. I did more research. We ended up getting a whole set up for the aquarium with a filter and all the things to help neutralize the PH to 7.0, two neon fish (they can live with the tadpoles) fish food, a manual cleaner for the tank and a couple of other things. Well, yesterday we got our first Frog. We noticed one of the tadpoles had all four legs and was trying to get out of the water. So, here I am again. More Research. What do I now do with the frog. Well, we put it in a small fish bowl, got a rock so he can hide and climb on, a piece a bush that he can climb the tree and leaves and a little lid filled with water. We have to make sure that it's moist inside so we spray the inside with the water from the aquarium. Whew...! We have learned a lot about tadpoles. I'll have to get some pics of the tadpoles soon...

Monday, June 2, 2008

Trip to Atlanta

Posted by PicasaLast week Craig and Rebekah went off for there Father/daughter trip. They went to Atlanta. The pics above are from CNN, Coca Cola and the Aquarium. They were able to try all different kinds of Coca Cola drinks and see them bottle coke etc. The aquarium was so huge and actually has the 2nd thickest piece of glass in the world. It's made from China so they have the thickest in the world. At CNN Rebekah was able to pretend she was in the news, see how they gave the news by reading prompts and learned how much actually goes into making news so they could be the first to present it to the people...You never know one day she might but hopefully at Fox News and not CNN. (Just my bias opinion) :) On the way home, they stopped to see the owner of the Labradoodles. We will be getting in one of the puppies in September. We've waited for such a long time to get a puppy and it 's now the perfect time. Upon entering the owners drive they spotted this snake. It's either a black racer or a rat snake. Either or, it's in the process of devouring a squirrel. Gross!!!
While Craig and Rebekah went on there Father/daughter time Isaac and I went out on a "date". We went out to eat at the new Fish and Chips and then to Goodberries. While we were eating Isaac said, " Mom, this is like we are married!" How funny! He just loved the time we had and that this night was just a special time that was just for him and I to share and enjoy talking with one another.
It's now summer time in our house. We are going to chill out with school for a while and work on living skills. Make some goals and try to meet them. I'm going to get Rebekah a savings account and then start helping her manage her money. She's got a couple of cool things going on (regarding goals/ideas) but it's just the beginning and I don't want to blurt it out. So, when she has finished a goal I'll post about it.

Friday, May 23, 2008

Rebekah is 11!!



Wow! Eleven years have flown by! I can't believe my little girl is growing into a young lady! She's almost as tall as me! I'm sure she'll surpass me by 13! Here are a couple of pics from her bday!



Wednesday, May 21, 2008

I was so shocked!!

I couldn't believe it. I took Isaac to hockey yesterday and Rebekah watched Elsah. When I got home, to my surprise, I was greeted by Chef Rebekah. She had the lights dimmed and candles were on the table. She had the table all set with special cups. She made dinner for our family! Spaghetti with sauce. ( I had picked up a few things on the way home to help with dinner but had no idea how much effort she had put into it) She had all of us sit down and served us our dinner of Spaghetti, salad, bread, peaches and a lemon meringue pie. That was the best gift I could ever get from my girl! While I was at hockey with Isaac, I was wondering what I was going to put on the table for dinner! What a great way to come home!!

Elsah will probably say da da before ma ma....just because it's easier:) she's saying ba ba da ba ba da....so cute!

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Don't fix it if it ain't broke!

Currently reading....


This is what I've learned in the past two-three weeks. I had changed Rebekah's curriculum just about three weeks ago. We were both really excited about it but have since learned that she really misses the World of Adventure program. It's easier for her to use and is in a chronological order regarding the time periods. Which makes history make sense and fun. I can still use the Charlotte Mason method with Learning Adventures so it's not that big of a deal. We got some wonderful resources that we will still end up using too!





Why is it that homeschoolers start to get ansy in the Spring Time with their curriculum? I know I do. I start to get a feeling for a spring cleaning and time to start fresh. You know the way you clean your home in the spring time, well it's the same way with homeschooling. We've been going and going all year long and we are just ready to take a break, get reorganized and feel more energized to start a new yr. I always think to myself....Is there something better out there for my kids to help grasp certain subjects. Am I doing the best I can as a teacher? Am I teaching them the right way to help them become self learners and giving them the best of every opportunity? What am I leaving out? Are they being challenged enough? Am I doing this right? So, these questions arise for me every single year.


So, during this questioning time period I decided to change curriculum thinking that this would be best. We now know it wasn't. Rebekah has a love for learning about history and living books. I already provided her with the best curriculum that fits her style of learning. Which is why I said "Don't fix it if it ain't broken." Maybe another homeschooler deals with the same. I'd love to hear from you so feel free to post your difficulties as well.





Elsah is 7mths now! Isaac, Elsah and I were on our way home from the store yesterday and Isaac goes "Mom, Elsah is trying to talk" So, I listen a little bit closer. She's starting to say Ba, ba ba....Awwww! My heart just melted! What an amazing thing to hear! I love it!





Well, that's it for now!

Tuesday, May 6, 2008






Yesterday we started our new curriculum. Isaac started as well. Rebekah said she really like school yesterday. One of my desires is for my children to enjoy learning.


Sunday, Rebekah was in a musical at church. Several different women sacrifice much of their time to get this together. It's a lot of hard work but well worth it. The main reason is to Glorify God and to share his message of love, that we all are sinners and need a saviour and that none of us are perfect except by God's saving grace. She had two different parts in it. Here are some pics from the musical. The dress Elsah has on is one of my favorites.


Monday, April 28, 2008




These are pics from Isaac's Cubbie class (he'll be moving on to sparks next yr.) and Elsah's first real smile for the camera!!!



This week was a busy week. Trying to get organized for the "next school". We had a friend Kevin, who was in our wedding come down from VA to visit. He is riding his motorcycle all the way to California. His blog is on my "favorite blogs" below. What an exciting trip.


I went to the curriculum sale on Saturday and Im sooo glad I made a list. It is so easy to pick up stuff that looks sooo good for your kids. I'm planning on having a "composer/artist" table where they look at pictures while listening to Narrative on Bach's life/Mozart's life. Or any of the other composers I have at the table. My science table is going to include hands on experiments, bird calling and how to recognize the calls, and science books with lots of pics. So, this is my plan. Whether or not it flows like I want is up in the air.


Rebekah had a swim meet this Sat/Sun too! She swam a 200 IM in 3:27. That's two laps of each stroke. I think her best stroke is Butterfly. It's beautiful when I watch her. It's amazing that since she has been on the swim team (since January) she has totally progressed in her times.


So, what's on the agenda for this week???? Hmmm....Planning, organinizing. I have a class tomorrow for work, have SEEK on Thursday and then I work Friday so I think that'll be it.

I need to order a couple of more books for our curriculum and then we'll be set to start.


Thursday, April 24, 2008

The closing of Learning Adventures...moving on

Ok....So we had a great time trying out all differents foods during this time period. I'm sorta sad but excited for finishing this unit up. It was lots of fun and educational and I have to say not at all the dullest. Rebekah enjoyed learning about different artists (her favorite Leonardo Da Vinci) during this time and her favorite scientist, Isaac Newton.

Now, it's time for myself to get ready for the next unit of study. I've chosen something different after researching all different styles of teaching. We were already doing something like this before in Learning Adventures but the narration, copywork, and dictation was missing. We use living books with learning already but I am now convinced this is an awesome way to learn with all different styles of learning. I m planning on using the "Charlotte Mason" approach. Charlotte Mason lived in England in the 1800's and had devoted her life to children and their education. She never married. "The Charlotte Mason method uses living books with an emphasis on quality rather than quantity, narration instead of comprehension exercises or composition, copywork for handwriting, spelling and grammar modeling, nature observation as the primary means of early science, and literature, poetry, art and music to give children's minds beautiful ideas to feed on."

Narration is a skill that is learned. I've tried it with Rebekah to see where she was at and we do need some work. Rebekah has great comprehension skills but narration is difficult for her.

Isaac starts school with us too in a couple of weeks (once I have all the books to start)! We are going to use Ambleside Online Curriculum which some awesome mothers have put together and have used the Charlotte Mason approach. I've changed my school room around to have some centers for Isaac. One is a reading center with all different styles of books (for Rebekah too) and a art/science center. We are going to do a nature study on birds in our area and learn how to identify them and their habitat. (Currently Isaac is intrigued with caterpillars so we'll learn the caterpillar cycle and watch the caterpillars change.

We have a busy busy month of May! Rebekah has her musical, recital, swim meet (once every month now), her birthday and Craig is taking her on a special three day trip to Atlanta GA. In early May Rebekah and I have a special mother/daughter day. What a busy month it will be!

Elsah is now 14 lbs at her 6mth appt. All of my babies are tiny. She is sitting up for short periods of time, turning over from her back to front now, moving toys from hand to hand and sleeping (yes!) for 7-8 hours a night! We started her on some oatmeal at night for dinner and then she has her normal feeding at 9-930pm. She is such a good baby. God has blessed me with easy babies. We'll see how she is at walking stage and crawling. I bet she'll be different from Isaac though. He was all into computers and gadgets. Toys were a bore to him. So, he kept me on my toes.

Finally, here is Isaac's favorite recipe from the renaissance!

Toad in the Hole:

1 Cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
pinch pepper
2 eggs
1 cup milk
8 oz sausage links (already cooked)

combine dry ingredients then add 2 eggs and milk. Chill 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 425 and then pour into 9X9 greased pan. Place sausages on top of batter. Bake 25minutes or until golden brown.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Renaissance and Reformation recipes YUMMO!

Well, yesterday we started our week long of cooking Renaissance food! We enjoyed the recipes soooo much that we thought we'd share them with you.

Cholermus Pancakes:

1/2 cup cream
1/2 cup, plus 2 T butter
3 eggs, well beaten
2 cups flour
1 tsp salt
sugar

Beat the cream with 2 T of melted butter and eggs. Sift flour and salt. Add the liquid to the dry ingredients. Blend until smooth. Add 2 T of butter into large skillet. Pour large portions about 1/3 cup into skillet. Brown on both sides. With two forks, tear pancakes apart into bite size pieces. Melt remaining butter in skillet. Add pieces of pancake. Brown until crusty. Sprinkle with sugar and serve hot with fresh berries (we used strawberries)

Spaghetti Bolognese

1 1/2 lb. Ground Beef
1 large onion
2 sticks celery, chopped
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp basil
2 cans Italian plum tomatoes (I used 280z of diced tomatoes)
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 Tablespoon olive oil
12 Oz spaghetti
1/4 cup grated parmigiano

Heat oil. fry onion, celery and garlic for 3 minutes. Add Ground Beef. Cook until meat is cooked. Add everything else except spaghetti and parmigiano. Simmer for 20 minutes. In the meantime cook spaghetti. Place spaghetti on plates. Top with sauce and parmigiano. Enjoy!
Serve with greens.

Chocolate Fondue:

6 oz of semisweet chocolate morsels
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
Banana's, strawberries and apple

MMMMMM Good!!

Today Rebekah is making Toad in a Hole for breakfast, Antipasto with homemade Italian dressing (if time permits) and hot cross buns for desert! Yummm! If we enjoy it then I'll post it.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Isaac's hockey, Elsah's feet and Rebekah classes








Tuesday was Isaac's first day playing Hockey! That was all he kept talking about. The kids are ages 5-7yr olds. Isaac is one of the youngest. Craig has taught him the correct stance on the skates and he is learning how to keep the stick on the ground as he skates.


Elsah is all about her feet. I wish I could get a picture of her but have yet to do it. We started her on a little bit of oatmeal at night right before her night time feeding. She is actually sleeping from 10-530 sometimes 7am.!! Wow! Elsah reminds me a lot of Rebekah. Instead of trying to crawl she scoots on the back of her head to get somewhere! Amazing!


Rebekah is almost done with the Renaissance and reformation unit! For the next two weeks we'll be cooking all different types of renaissance food! That's one of our favorite things to do. Eat different types of food especially deserts! Her climateology class is over and we have learned a lot. There is sooo much to digest in such a little amount of time. However, in Rebekah's lego group this fall they will be truly refocusing and learning much more about it since that is the main topic. We will be starting the Age of Exploration soon!


I always find it somewhat refreshing to feel like we have accomplished a unit of study and that feeling of going into a new one with "new" excitement!


Monday, March 31, 2008

Isaac's 5th Birthday!!!











What an amazing and hectic day! I got up real early to start Saturday morning right! I had two cakes to make, frosting to layer and bugs to place. Isaac had his 5th birthday party this weekend. He had many of his close buddies come over and celebrate with Linny the Clown. We had hotdogs and chips too. We usually don't have big birthday parties. We celebrate each yr with family and cake and maybe one friend will come over too. So, as you can see, this day was extra special! Today is really Isaac's birthday. The 31st at 1036 am. For everyone's birthday we do presents in the morning (this came from Craig's side of the family). Isaac got a sling shot from Rebekah and he got one playstation game (sonic) and a Fisher Price basketball hoop. It goes up to 6 ft. He was really happy with those wonderful gifts! Last night, we all sat around watching my labor with Isaac and I kept thinking Wow! Even after birth, Isaac's facial expressions are still there today. What amazed me is that how perfectly formed Isaac was and his imprint of his personality was right at the very very beginning! God knit into place every single detail of Isaac. From his personality to his outer appearance to his inside appearance. I love that verse


Psalm 139: 13 For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb.

God knew all of my children before they were even thought of. He knew what I could handle which is probably why all of them are spaced out 10,5 and almost 6 months. I love those moments of holding the baby and meeting their demanding needs to the very hectic times of always getting into things (toddler stage) and then the awesome stage Isaac is at with preschool/kindergarten. Finally, I truly enjoy Rebekah's age b/c she learns so much and her brain is like a sponge. I'm sorta and sorta not looking forward to Rebekah growing into teenage years.

So, today I reflect on Isaac's birthday. What he was like in the very beginning. Since he has been able to walk, Isaac has always been on the go. I would try to get him to play with toys but nope, he would always go for things that are able to turn on/off, the computer or anything that he can make something happen. He loves pretending with swords and guns. He enjoys playstation (which at a young three he started to play) I truly thought I would never let any of my children do this but because Rebekah is older he wants to do what his big sister does. Craig had gotten the playstation for Christmas and ever since Isaac has mastered all the controls without really any help. I do limit playstation b/c I believe it's a waste of a childs mind!

I was told a couple of days ago that Isaac is a natural at sports. He was playing volleyball with his friends and a mother and he was able to volley and hit the volleyball just right. I've never shown him that. It's amazing what little ones pick up.
Well, off to do some school. Rebekah is working on her water cycle presentation and I think I'll let Isaac enjoy a day of just fun!
Remember, God knit all of us together for a purpose! We are his creation and He doesn't make junk!!

God Bless!

Alicia

Isaac

Monday, March 24, 2008

Amazing!

Elsah reached out for me for the first time on Easter! I had a rough day at work and boy! did that make my day! I was all smiles from that point on.
Today Rebekah swam 200 laps! It took her 1 and a half hours. Her swim team was raising money and they had to swim either 200 laps or 2 hours, whichever came first! I wish I could swim like that!

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Oatmeal all over and braids!

Isaac usually tries to make his own breakfast (hot oatmeal the instant kind). Well, today he was getting it out of the microwave and it spilled. I was in the middle of giving Rebekah her spelling test and was wondering if Isaac was able to accomplish his task at hand. I turned around and saw him quietly trying to clean it up. I went over to him and looked at him and saw oatmeal on his hair, face and clothes. I was a little bit frustrated but realized that this was an opportunity to make some laughter. It was pretty funny when thinking about it. He eyes looked so angelic. So, we just got another instant oatmeal and this time I helped him get it out of the microwave. Task accomplished!

I couldn't believe it but Rebekah wanted me to put her hair in braids. Wow! I haven't practiced this in such a long time. I tried a french braid three times but decided two braids in the back would look much better. I have to say her hair looks nice.

Monday, March 17, 2008

Longer sleep but yet Im still exhausted....

Wow! Saturday Elsah slept 10hours! From 10pm-8am and last night she slept from 10pm-530am. Finally, some sleep. For some reason though I still feel exhausted. I worked only 8 hours yesterday but it really felt like a 12 hour shift. My mind was just mentally drained. I don't have anything planned for today! Yeah! Another day that I can just stay home....well, I do need to get some groceries.

Saturday, March 15, 2008

The value of full time moms

For my wonderful friend Heather and all mothers! Go down the archive, you'll see the topics. This one broadcast has two parts! Enjoy! Click on the title above this writing( The value of full time moms)

"Every evening I'll turn my cares over to God, he's going to be up all night anyway" Mary C. Crowley

What a day! Isaac woke up yesterday and looked pitiful. His face was pale and I knew he wasnt' feeling well. After eating some oatmeal he told me his stomach hurt. I was thinking...Oh great! I hope he's not going to get sick again..however, no fever. He laid down in bed (which is totally not Isaac) and threw up at 12noon. Only once. Im thinking that it was something that he ate within the past 24 hrs. We did a lot of juggling yesterday with time schedules and not eating lunch but going to fast food on the way to Rebekahs' climate/lego class and myself to work (at 3pm) Mom came over and watched Isaac and Elsah while I left running with Rebekah. Whew! But we made it. Now with Isaac better Craig came home a little bit early around 3pm and later took Isaac and Elsah to play indoor roller hockey. Isaac is just new to skating on his roller blades but people kept going up to Craig asking him how long Isaac had been skating. Craig would say He just started roller blading. People were amazed. I do think though that having a couple of ice skating lessons helped. So, today, they are off to get all of Isaac's gear so he can play roller hockey. Im really hoping that he won't end up getting hurt. Isn't that the fear of all parents though? Mainly moms, I think. But that would be considered worry and from what I learned in my Power of a Positive Mom class that worry does nothing. It just gives us something to do and a time waster. I think I'll put that in my God box and that way I'll just cast my cares to Him.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Today has been somewhat productive. Isaac did his Happy Phonics today. I love this program. It is fun for Isaac. Today we had cards that made a full sentence. Like this: The man is in the van. He would then draw a card that has a picture on it: a "cat" on top of a "hat". He would find the correct word which would be "hat, cat and on " and exchange the words with the sentence on the ground. He makes a new sentence by doing this. It was so awesome to see him do this. 4 months ago I tried this with him and he really didn't "understand" it. .

Yesterday, Rebekah had her last day of Creative Writing. The teacher has "An Author's Tea" and all parents and grandparents come to listen to their children's literature. Here are two poems that Rebekah wrote:
The Boy In Blue: A picture painting by Gainsborough
The boy in blue
lost a button or two
As a cavalier
Of the last century
His outfit of satin
And lace
Boy!
He has a confident face
Hands on hips say, "I'm the boss."
He is standing on some moss
But kindness and grace
Show on his face
A welcoming invitation
To travelers
The Sea
The sea is a gigantic bathtub
Full of rubber sea animals
But alive and way different
Things we still don't know
Because it's so deep
Like a deep, deep well
Someday we might find out
With knowledge coming every day
Who knows?
It could be you who finds out
The unknown things
Under there
Way under the deep, deep sea
Where we can't go....
Yet
Well, off to do some never ending laundry and make dinner....

God was in the Rye Grass

This has truly touched my heart and with permission I asked if I could post it on my blog.
It was sent by Linda, (a co-worker who was diagnosed last year with breast cancer) whose husband Glenn has been going through some very difficult times over the last seven months. Glenn wrote this!

Recently Glenn sent out and I thought you would enjoy reading Glenn’s perspective. This may be a repeat as some of you have already received this:

“God is working not only in my physical life, but also in my life with Him. I want to share with you here one of the things God has reminded me of during these almost 7 months of continuing uncertainty. GOD WAS IN THE RYE GRASS As a child, one of the tasks that I had on the farm was making sure that during the early springtime, as the rye grass was coming up, that my cow had a regular visit to the rye field. There were just 4 cows in my family, which just happened to be the same number of people in our family. I was responsible for one, my brother for one, my mom for one, and my dad for one….(although Dad was "really" the responsible one.) I milked my own cow; I would make sure my cow had feed and hay; I would "haul her manure away"; and I was her total care taker. But the reason I had to take her out to the rye field in the spring, was so she could fill up one of her several stomachs with that fresh, dark green rye grass, which would then make her milk as rich as kings milk. That would make good cream for our butter that we sold every Friday to the store we "traded at". Friday's were known as "TOWNING DAY!" I suspect that really sounds weird to some of you, but living in the country, (and it WAS THE COUNTRY then,) when we went TO TOWN, that was a treat! Not that we ever GOT anything, but we left the farm and went into the city full of people….all 15,000 of those Lexington Barbecue people along with paved streets and sidewalks.
Now, I never did trust cows. I was a rather LITTLE boy even when I was little. I thought I was going to be a midget, but I ALMOST grew out of it!!!! I wasn't fearful of cows mind you….just the cows HEAD. I could take the back end of the cow…...that's the general area where the milk came from. The cow's tail was back there too, but it was just a nuisance….swatting around all over me while I was milking in the summer without a shirt on. (If you never felt a cow's tail swat your bare back….you don't know how that feels, but I tell you, it can sting.) But the head, now that was different. The head of a cow was as big as I was, and on top of that…no pun intended….there were sharp, mean-looking HORNS up there. Those cow heads were hung on mighty powerful necks too. I've seen a milk cow bust a stall plank by just swinging that big head and breaking it with her horns. Those cow HEADS can do some real damage. But it was my responsibility to get the cow out in the rye field, and I had to do that by putting a chain around either her neck or her horns. Usually I preferred the neck! Then I'd lead that cow out through the woods to our rye field, back into what we called the "new ground" about a half mile from the barn. As a little boy, every step I took with that cow….(mind you that head and horns were RIGHT BEHIND ME)…..every step I took I was afraid she was going to run over me. So, to keep her from doing that…I would just sort of speed up. Then I'd look back, and wouldn't you know it, as I speeded up, she speeded up. So I'd speed up a little more to get a little more out in front. But every time I did that, and then looked back…guess what……the cow was right there. Poor ole cow was almost running sometimes by the time we reached the rye field.
When we got there, I'd walk her out into the field where she hadn't grazed before, to a brand new patch of that rich rye grass, and I'd drop that chain. As soon as I did, she would drop that big head to the ground and begin tearing up that rye grass. I can still hear that sound today, the sound of a cow's teeth cutting that tough rye grass. Rip, rip, rip…..then the chain would go ching, clang, ching, as she would swing that big head around moving the chain out of her way every few feet.
So there the cow was, loving every bite of that rye, and little 'ole me standing there in the field. What do you do on a cold windy March day in the middle of the rye field? Well here is what I did. I just zipped up my coat real tight, pulled up my corduroy hood and tied the string tight, and laid down right in the middle of the rye. When I was lying down, the rye grass was totally covering me……keeping off the bitter wind, and I was a snug as a bug in a rug. Warm, cozy, and quiet. As I lay there on the bed of rye grass looking up at the sky. I'd do the "what is that cloud" thing, you know, that cloud looks like a rabbit, that one looks like a cat! And I'd also hear a couple of planes going over, (remember this was just about 7 years after WW II and they still used the B-29.) Every once in a while I'd see a formation of B 29's, sometime 6 or so in one formation…..with some flights made up 5 or 6 formations long. What a sight for a kid who wanted to fly when he grew up! Just laying there in the rye, watching the clouds and the planes, and hearing the wind howling through the trees at the edge of the field, but protected from it's fury, and the cow's rip, rip, rip, as she tore off the rye grass, and the clang, clang clang of the chain around her neck. This was an absolute heavenly experience…..one of the very few things about the farm that I really loved.
Now as I look back on things like that today as I am presently going through treatment for esophageal cancer……I realize a lot about what was going on back then. You see now, during this time, I have the peace of God, the comfort of God, the assurance of God's total authority in my life, and realize that whatever comes, I only want God's will, because there is nothing better than God's personal will for me, even when I have cancer. I know that God is faithful. I know that I can TRUST Him, not just with my soul, but with my body as well. If God is faithful enough that I can entrust him with my very eternal soul….how could I not entrust him with this mortal body of mine? I do, and I explicitly, totally trust God through this process of treatment, that whatever the outcome of this, whether he gives me a miracle or a crown at the end of this…..I want HIS will to be done. Oh I would love a miracle, but what if that is not God's best for me? And so I pray just as His own Son prayed, "Lord if it be possible let this cup pass from me….but nevertheless not MY WILL, but THY WILL be done." And in full assurance of God's proven faithfulness, and with total peace and trust, that's where I stand.
What in the world does this have to do with GOD in the Rye field?? Well folks, I've come to understand that it has EVERYTHING to do with God in the Rye field. You see, as a young lad, out in the middle of the field with the cold wind blowing, I was literally on cloud nine, ten and eleven….snug and warm, cut off from the howling wind above me, looking at my 2 favorite things in life, airplanes and sky, and hearing the unbelievably comforting sounds of a cow eating rye grass and a chain being tossed about. I didn't have a worry in the world. I knew the cow was right there with me….I didn't have to STICK MY HEAD above the rye grass to see where she was. I could hear her. I wasn't being blown away by the March wind…because I was underneath the tall rye. I wasn't cold, because my corduroy coat and hood had me warm and cozy. I just lay there on a bed of soft crushed rye grass soaking in the sky, the clouds and the airplanes flying overhead.. You see, God comes to us in the content of what we can understand at the time. As a young boy, I wasn't familiar with the deep truths of the scriptures; I wasn't familiar with the knowledge of how God comforts his people during periods of their lives that could be cold, or boring, or scaring. But you know what, GOD WAS IN THAT RYE FIELD with me as a child, just the same as he is with me here today through the uncertainties of esophageal cancer. As a lad, God came down and just POURED out his peace on me. I didn't even realize it at the time. I wasn't even sure what it was. I just experienced it. I didn't even have to ask for it….God just did it.
Today, I understand just a little bit more about God and his sovereignty than I did 55 years ago. I understand now a little bit more of how God loves, and comforts, and offers peace, contentment and assurance. Today, I just say, "Lord I TRUST YOU…may your will be done…and the jacket get's zipped up, the hood string tied snugly, and rye grass gets packed down on the hard ground, the clouds fly by accompanied here and there by a flight of my favorite planes, and I just lie here soaking it all in, and saying, isn't God wonderful! ISN'T MY GOD WONDERFUL!!
I don't think I can explain God's peace any better than that. GOD'S HERE IN THE RYE , SO LET THE TRIALS JUST FLY ON BY!! I have his peace, his warmth, His comfort, His presence, and His assurance that I AM WORTH more to him than all the fields of rye; than all the herds of cattle; than all the planes in the sky……and HE LOVES ME!! Let me say that again…HE REALLY LOVES ME!! And if you are HIS through Christ….He loves YOU too!
What peace and assurance! God can give you that same peace and assurance that He gave me before I even needed it. I want to praise Him and thank him that for me….He did that. He gave me those things in my fellowship with Him, some years before the cancer came; years before I knew the REALITY of the possibility of death being right around the corner. You see, He and I spent a lot of time in the Rye field together before the real tests came. And in that, he lovingly prepared me for whatever His will may be. I KNOW I CAN TRUST MY FAITHFUL, LOVING GOD!
Are you spending time with God in the Rye fields? Are you now spending time with him in sweet fellowship that he longs to have with you. He wants to, so that when the winds and cold come your way, you'll just simply praise him for YOUR ASSURANCE OF His sovereignty, and roll over into his soft rye covered hands and rest in total comfort, secure and ASSURED in HIM.”
Have a great day!Glenn

Monday, March 10, 2008

this was sent to me from my sister in law Susan....

Why buy expensive toys??? Looks like he is very content and enjoying himself!

An uneventful Monday

Well, today was uneventful, which is nice to have every once in a while. No going here to there or there to here. I was almost starting to really think that Elsah was going to sleep through the night, then I woke up from my dream. :(

Our new word is Climate. Climate is the long term weather pattern that characterizes a region.
This week we are learning about charts and their importance in Climate measurement. We've looked at different youtube videos in re: to weather instruments and are learning to ask important questions when looking at charts. For example: What is the chart measuring, what is the source of the data and how accurate/reliable is the source.

Whew! It's a lot to look at but interesting.

Saturday, March 8, 2008

Isaac's feeling better!

This must've been a short sickness (which Im very thankful for). He was better by the time I went to work last night. I worked 7p-3a and it wasn't as bad as the other shifts had been. I have not done a night shift like that in a long long time. I was surprised how much energy I actually had at 4am when I got home. Craig took the kids to a sportsplex near our house last night and they got to play basketball and soccer. One of the workers there lowered the basketball hoop for Isaac. He loved shooting hoops. Rebekah played soccer but mostly enjoyed playing basketball. Elsah slept 5 hours two nights ago and last night she did really well too. Maybe we are on our way to sleeping through the night! Well, off to do our routine chores.

Friday, March 7, 2008

Our walk to the lake

After taking all those pictures on Wednesday we walked Rebekah up to her swimming at the Y. Our city has just finished paving a wonderful pathway so we don't have to cross the busy busy street in the evening time. Then, after dropping her off, Isaac, Elsah and I continue to stroll down the pathway. This is the first time I've really walked this long since being pregnant with Elsah. It was so beautiful. There was just enough breeze in the air that you could sniff the pear trees starting it's bloom. These trees bloom with white flowers. (the picture on the blog) but they give off the most pungent smell. I think these trees are so amazing. They send off an awful smell but the flowers appear so delicate and then in the fall the trees turn into such vibrant amazing colors. So, we walk all the way to the park near us that has a lake. The geese and ducks were at the waters edge. Isaac got right into the big muddy piles and threw sticks and rocks into the water. He found this amazing rock that was at least 5-8 lbs. He walked it all the way home which is at least a good mile. He would stop and rest then continue on. He persevered in bringing it home.
Well, today in our house might be the beginning of sickness. Isaac isn't feeling well. If he's not up and running I know somethings wrong. He didn't want Daddy to leave this morning. That was another clue that he wasn't feeling well either. So, off to take care of my little wee ones and my big helper Rebekah.

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Today Isaac started to read his Starfall books. They came from www.starfall.com He's already reading four letter words like "ball, into, give" He's doing so well. He likes to read to Elsah. He said today " Elsah see, you have to read like this" and he starts to sound out the words to her like he use to do when he started to read. At lunch he was describing his pictures to us. One was adam and eve at the gate and the other was "the world full of colors"

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

New word for today

I have found that Memory is a great game to play when trying to learn new definitions. I don't have a great memory anymore but I use to. Rebekah has made notecards to learn the climate definitions. Our word for today is Anthropogenic. This means having to deal with man or caused by humans. We have all other different types of words dealing with climate and if you were to ask me what they were before we started to study climate I would've been like ....uh...I don't know. Now, we get to find out what the Meteorologist is talking about when he talks about a Front coming through or why the humidity is so high in Raleigh in the summertime.
Rebekah is much better at memory than I. It's only been a week since she started learning the definitions and already knows most of them or can look at the definition and know the word that goes with it.
Isaac is outside finding worms or any type of bug he can find to put in his bugcatcher. I have to say that today is cloudy but warm. What a perfect day that God has made for us so we can enjoy the many things we like to do..
Come on back tomorrow and find out what the new word for the day is!

Monday, March 3, 2008

Whew! What a weekend...Im thankful to be home!

Well, this weekend was full events in the ED. My Saturday was great! I took care of really sick patients but I felt like I was able to help someone. On Sunday, well that's another story. I was at the front desk ( the person who takes your name and puts you in the system if you have to be seen, controls inflow/outflow of the ED) Put it this way, no one was nice at all to me and yelled and screamed at me due to events I can't control. I try to be nice and use good customer service but it's hard when they are throwing things at me. I left work disgruntled, but yet I still believe it takes a lot to get me upset at work. I just look at them and smile, nod my head and apologize over and over again.

Mondays are days for me to get the house back in order. It's cleaning time. If you haven't heard this from me before I use to do "Fly Lady" www.flylady.com and I was good at it. I kept up with it. Well, since child number three I've learned.. and am still learing,.....
it's okay to have a messy house, the laundry not done, even not knowing what's for dinner. I know that I'm instilling things in my children that are more important than the house. They are only young once and they grow up so fast.
I have to remind myself this on a daily basis because I am a perfectionist when it comes to my house. I have a hard time doing anything until the house is in the order the way I like it.

Isaac finished his first Bob Books and Im looking for a great bargain for Bob Two books. These are great books to help with learning to read. Rebekah continues to do her studies today and she'll be off to swimming tonight.

What's for dinner tonight? Vegetable Lasagna from Trader Joes....I've also learned that it's okay if you don't have a home cooked meal on the table every night.

Saturday, March 1, 2008

On my way to work!

Today Isaac is going to a birthday party at Hoppers house. He's really excited to celebrate his friend Kyles' birthday. Im sure it'll be a blast. Craig will take him and I'll stay home with the other two. Rebekah is having her friends over around 1pm so the kids will have a good time today. Then Im off to work from 3p-11p. For those of you who do not know I work at the hospital in the Emergency room. The flu is going around and a lot of sick people come in to see us. I keep pretty busy there so time flys by which is what I like. I always hope and pray that God will be able to use me while Im there as well. Being a patient in the ER can be very long and lonely. Sometimes people come in b/c they have no other hope. I hope that I can point them to the awesome God who gives hope in such a down time in there lives. Well, Im off to get the house squared away before going into work!

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Thursday at SEEK

Well today we had SEEK. This is our extra activity during the week for both Rebekah and Isaac. We don't have "school" on Thursday b/c of our activities are on this day. Rebekah takes two classes and Isaac is currently in the preschool class during SEEK. Isaac was so excited today. He got to check out more Bible Man videos. This is his favorite videos right now. He goes through the selection with such excitement! Bekah gets her favorite audio stories, Adventures in Odyssey. We usually stay after so Isaac gets to play with his buddies Paul and Luke. After SEEK we visited Nanna and Elsah was just talking, babbling and laughing. She was soooo cute! Then we cruised on over to Rebekah's voice lessons and "whew" now we are home! What a day!
Tonight we are having the kids favorite dish. It's a vegetable beef soup made with V8 juice! I can't believe that they really like it! Tonight, we'll hopefully go to bed earlier than normal. This is 9 for us. We are all late nighters. I don't know what I'd if Elsah got up early. You never know what s going to happen when she's older. Right now I only sleep at the most and if Im lucky 4 hours at night.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Welcome to our Blog!

Hey Everyone! I thought I would start a blog for the family members and friends we don't get to see often. This blog is about my wonderful family. Craig, my wonderful husband, Rebekah, my amazing daughter, Isaac my adventurer, and Elsah our new and precious bundle of joy! We are in our 3rd year of homeschooling and it's truly amazing how much they learn year after year! I 've had the thrill of watching Rebekah weaknesses grow into strengths. Right now Im enjoying watching Isaac learn to read right in front of my eyes. He's already writing letters and forming some words. Elsah, well she's a little bit young for that. At 4 mths, she is now holding her head up while on her belly, talking and babbling a lot, and gives lots of rasberries. This blog will be our daily/weekly adventure of learning. Right now, Rebekah is learning about climatetology. We're putting Learning Adventures on hold,which is a full unit study, to take 6 weeks and learn about climatetology. We are both learning as we go. So, hopefully you can learn along with us.