The Cottage on the Hill

Stimulating

2012-02-02T05:04:00.000-05:00

One thing I'm finding with homeschooling my children is that it is so refreshingly stimulating! I love putting my mind to work organizing their lessons and planning their curriculum. I love coming up with creative projects to do. I love taking time to research their questions.

Being so stimulated has also shown me just how mindless life can be for many. Mindless TV. Mindless Internet. Mindless Video Games. Mindless Movies. Mindless Magazines. Sure, we all need a little break from stimuli with a bit of mindlessness now and again, but mindlessness seems to have become the norm. Mindless day in and day out droning away.

Where's the pursuit of a new hobby? Where's the pursuit of learning something new?

That's what I love about homeschooling. It opens those doors, not only for my children, but myself!

Herbal Smoothie

2012-02-01T04:40:00.001-05:00

Thanks to THIS RECIPE from Bulk Herb Store, I started making my own herbal smoothies at breakfast time. I am following the herbal blend portion, but not necessarily the smoothie portion of the recipe. Instead this is what I'm doing:

banana

frozen fruit

homemade yogurt

raw milk

organic unrefined coconut oil

acerola powder

herbal blend

Whirr away and enjoy!

Yum yum yum!

And filling!

The herbs in this smoothie are all considered safe to consume during pregnancy, though if you're concerned, please contact your appropriate health care provider.

The herbs are considered a great alternative to consuming synthetic vitamins.

The neat thing, too, is that I didn't have my major afternoon crash like I usually do! That's a HUGE plus for me!

Budging the Organic Budget Part 2

2012-01-31T14:19:00.002-05:00

I have to be honest with you. If you want to eat better and you have a limited grocery budget, not only do you have to simplify, but you have to work harder. Yep. Make your own. Hate the idea? Well, if you want to eat better, then get over it. Life takes work and getting where you want takes work. Convenience costs one way or another. Hard work pays one way or another.

It's daunting at first, I know. But once you get into the swing of things, it isn't so bad. It's ok to pick and choose, too. It may behoove you to make your own yogurt, but making your own bread is just too much. Just figure out what works for you and go with it, so long as you are actually saving money.

Another thing to consider when making your own is the total cost of the end result. Remember, when comparing how much it costs to make your homemade bread that you don't compare it to Wonder Bread, but rather the finer, natural loaves. Sure, it may cost you more than a loaf of cheap Aldi's white bread to make your own bread, but you're paying for health benefits here!! White sliced sandwich bread is pretty much a non-food.

Here is my grocery list for this week (not counting my raw milk and eggs that I get at the farm):

Total spent: $81.00

3 boxes mussels (they were on sale and my family LOVES them)

1 bag collard greens

nearly 5 lbs bananas

3 lbs pears

1 Avocado

1/2 gallon milk (for yogurt making)

1/2 gallon local milk (to try)

Buttermilk

butter

vermont sharp cheddar cheese

feta cheese

organic yogurt (I have to revamp the culture in my yogurt)

skippy natural peanut butter (yes, I know there are better options out there, but you have to consider what your family will actually consume)

natural ground chicken (oh, for an organic source of chicken....I bought ground because I'm in the mood for chicken patties. This is healthier than buying the premade patties in the frozen dept.)

2 loaves of Bimbo bread (ugh, but again, as I said about the peanut butter)

Natural, recycled toilet paper 12 pk

5 lbs grapefruit

Egg noodles (ummm....yeah...)

Organic spaghetti (angel hair, c'mon, goes great with the mussels)

cake donuts (ok, my bad. My really bad. But they were marked down and the kids have been begging me for donuts for a month now. I'm considering ways to make a sprouted or soaked grain donut with rapadura or maple syrup or something healthier....maybe adding applesauce)

Hard cider 6 pk (hubby's special treat, especially since I took away his Lipton Iced Tea in the 12 oz bottles in favor of my homemade iced tea).

If you're wondering how in the world I'm getting meals out of this, I have meat in the freezer and staples in the pantry. This is really good considering I've been spending over $200 a week on groceries before starting this series.

Halfway Through!

2012-01-30T08:25:00.000-05:00

If anything, I am more than halfway through since I tend to birth early. (Every time I say that, I have this superstitious feeling that this one will be late!) In fact, I get so busy with everything else that I have to remember to stop and rub the belly! Thankfully, baby boy is pretty active and likes to kick little reminders into my lower abdomen as if to say, "hey, mom, I know I have siblings out there taking up most of your attention, but don't forget about me in here!"

Just Out of Curiosity....

2012-01-29T17:35:00.000-05:00

Is there a burner on your stove that rarely gets used? Why?

For me, it is the front right hand burner. The front left gets used the most because it is the only big burner on my little stove. The back two get used for safety reasons with curious little fingers. Thus, the front right hand burner is often on the "back burner."

Life Should Have a Soundtrack

2012-01-28T05:30:00.000-05:00

Life should have a soundtrack, I think. I can't tell you how many times I've walked somewhere, or driven somewhere and thought about the music that should be playing in the background. When I was in Scotland, I remember hearing distant bagpipes as I viewed the beautiful, natural surroundings. When I head up to the Adirondacks, I often hear the theme song to the movie "Last of the Mohicans" in my head.

Lately, we've been listening to instrumental hymns and celtic tunes.

What is your soundtrack today?

Herbal Teas for Picky Eaters?

2012-01-27T18:58:00.000-05:00

I've mentioned before that my daughter is a VERY picky eater. She refuses fruits and vegetables 99% of the time to the point of rather going hungry than being subjected to eat them. It boggles my mind because when she was an older infant, she ate it all! I have a chart made for her hanging in the kitchen where she gets a sticker every time she eats something listed on it. It's a slow process. I also sneak fruits and veg in where I can, though she can usually tell. On top of it, I limit her intake of junk foods since she isn't getting the good foods.

I'm trying to get her to ingest more vitamin-rich plant-based foods. She also needs to drink more water. She prefers milk and will refuse water. She'll drink juice, but commercial juices aren't exactly healthful. (I'm looking into a juicer.)

My next idea is herbal teas. Of course, I'll make sure she only drinks teas that are suitable for children. She has recently become fond of tea parties, and would probably enjoy cold tea as an alternative to plain old water.

Do any of you out there give your children herbal teas? I'd like to hear from you. Tell me anything about it!

Loving Cornmeal

2012-01-26T07:48:00.000-05:00

www.ansonmills.com

Lately, I've really been enjoying adding cornmeal to my sneak-attack quickbreads*. I love the texture and the reduction in the use of gluten since I seem to be gluten sensitive this pregnancy. It also adds a sweetness to the bread.

*My sneak-attack quickbreads are made from leftover fruits and veggies I have laying around my house. For example, my latest one was made from banana slices not eaten at breakfast and pears that were past their prime. I made a carrot orange quickbread before that from leftover carrots and greenbeans and an orange that was getting too juicy on the inside. I've also made spinach bread, zucchini bread, apple, mixed vegetables.....any combination thereof. I use as little sweetening as possible. Bananas are usually add to the mix to add sweetness. Raisins help. I like to use maple syrup and/or molasses (depending on the bread), but if it needs it, I'll add a little Florida Crystals sugar. I follow no recipe. The result is a moist, cake-like quickbread that my children LOVE served with plenty of butter and sometimes a dab of maple syrup.

Budging the Organic Budget Part 1

2012-01-25T15:11:00.000-05:00

I am desiring more and more for my family to eat as healthfully as possible, especially since 2 out of 3 of my children are very picky eaters. Unfortunately, our grocery bill is through the roof and I STILL pass up important organic foods because of the expense.

So, I am starting this series, Budging the Organic Budget, as a sort of brain storm of ways to keep the grocery budget down and healthful foods up.

Part 1

Eat more simply.

Variety is the spice of life, but now that I am a busy mom of 3 going on 4, variety can be an added burden. I used to love making all those ethnic, different and gourmet dishes. Planning all those different meals is time consuming and expensive, not to mention all the leftovers that go bad in the back of the fridge because heaven forbid you eat chicken twice a week.

With 2 picky children, making dinners such as casseroles, or gourmet flavorings means a lot of waste. They don't eat it. So, I am taking inventory of simple, healthful meals my children will actually eat and sticking to the healthiest versions of those ingredients that I can afford.

I grew up with the idea that you HAD to have variety in your meals. Then, I found out that back in the old days, meals were quite simple and healthful. Lots of soups, stews, bread and cheese, eggs, oatmeal, apples, etc etc etc. Quick, simple, healthful. Our foremothers had enough to do without spending HOURS and expense on meals. It's ok to eat simply! It really is! Not only that, but you'll savor and enjoy the flavors more! Want variety with less expense? Buy in season!

Here's my first week of buying more organic:

I spent a grand total of $124.00

Deli

.29 lbs olives

Hummus

Marble Jack cheese

Grocery

Hunt's Natural Ketchup

All Natural Heidl Raisin Sunflower Bread

Dried Zante Currants

Kate's Sea Salted Butter quarters

Store brand baking soda

Sorrento Mozz. Cheese

Bimbo Whole Grain White bread

Attitude Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Diapers

Half Gallon Whole Milk (from a local source)

Organic pickles

Meat

Naturally Raised Stew Beef

Angus Loin Tips

Natural Breast Cutlets

Nitrate-Free Bacon

Organic Department

Evolve Kefir

Organic Frozen Green Beans

Organic Frozen Mixed Veg.

Organic Frozen Blackberries

Organic Frozen Blueberries

Organic Brown Basmati Rice

Dried Pineapple slices

Produce

Mini Watermelon

Bananas

Organic Apples 3 lbs

Organic Potatoes 5lbs

Slice Mushrooms

Organic Spring Mix

Organic Celery hearts

Organic broccoli crowns

I get my eggs and raw milk from a local farm.

Review:

I should get organic ketchup, especially since my family treats it more like a food than a condiment

Bimbo Bread....yeah I know, but hubby is a Wonder Bread sort of guy. At least Bimbo doesn't have high fructose corn syrup in it!

I don't buy organic milk because it is ultra-pasteurized. The milk I get is from local dairies that do not use growth hormones. This pasteurized store-bought milk is used to make my yogurt.

The watermelon was probably not a wise buy. It is most likely imported and definitely NOT organic. But it was on sale and looked so good!

Where To Save $$:

I'm going to start cloth diapering and cloth wiping to save $$. The Attitude diapers are only $9.99 a pack, but there's fewer diapers in a pack than Earth's Best or Seventh Generation. I chose Attitude because it says they're biodegradable. The other two brands don't say that. I'll use Attitude for traveling and nighttime.

The raisin bread....yeah...that was nearly $4.50 a loaf! I can make that at home AND soak my grains beforehand, making a healthier loaf for less.

The hummus I definitely have to start making on my own. My youngest LOVES hummus, but store bought hummus is so expensive and has questionable vegetable oils in it.

Nesting

2012-01-25T07:44:00.000-05:00

Thank God for nesting instincts! I'm getting so much done!

Dishwashing Daydreams

2012-01-24T05:15:00.000-05:00

I prefer washing dishes when I have something on my mind because it makes the chore go by quickly and I don't realize how gross it is! :)

Tuna

2012-01-23T05:09:00.000-05:00

You know, it's bad enough they jacked the price of cans of tuna and lowered the contents from 6 oz to 5 oz, but then they went cheap on the cans! So now when you press down on the lid to drain the water, the lid bends and tuna goes squirting everywhere!

Giving Up Multi-Vitamins

2012-01-22T06:46:00.000-05:00

During my second pregnancy, I gave up on prenatal vitamins. Forget those giant horsepills that are impossible to swallow, especially during the first trimester! Instead, I found Nature's Plus Children's Chewables, a whole foods multi-vitamin. I compared labels, found that I should take two of the chewables and supplement with folic acid. This is what I've been doing, but now I am considering giving them up, too.

The Healthy Home Economist posted THIS ARTICLE that discusses secondarily that synthetic vitamins are not good for you and not assimilated properly. I became very concerned about the Vitamin A, as too much synthetic vitamin A can harm an unborn baby. I am taking fermented cod liver oil and x-factor butter oil this pregnancy, so vitamin A really isn't needed in pill form. Not to mention that carrots are a staple in this family.

So, as an alternative, I'm looking into making my own herbal smoothies based on THIS RECIPE.

I think, overall, I may find it cheaper that buying those sucrose-laden chewables. Now, the only problem is getting it in a form that my children will ingest. Maybe I'd better buy a juicer, too.

Interesting Furnishing Finds

2012-01-21T08:58:00.000-05:00

The Seventh Avenue catalog arrived in the mail today. Why I get this catalog, I do not know because I never order from them. But, I decided to thumb through it today and I found these:

What is it?! It's a "Greek Temple Fountain Console." I call it a waterfall fireplace. It's neat. It's a unique alternative to a fireplace, I think. I wouldn't buy it. The LED lights look cheesy and it certainly doesn't fit my decor.

Now, for some reason, this is like! I could see myself lounging in it wearing satin pjs and reading my latest Victoria magazine issue. Although, I think for comfort, I'd prefer one with arms. Of course, again, I'm not going to buy one.

In Fashion or Out?

2012-01-20T06:05:00.001-05:00

Apparently, Princess Kate Middleton has boosted the sales of sheer hosiery with her proper royal attire. Hosiery sales were lagging? From what I've read, pantyhose are technically out of fashion. That never occurred to me before, but it certainly explains why I'm finding it harder and harder to find pantyhose in my size and color.

Yes, I am out of fashion. I wear pantyhose. And *gasp* I even wear tights at times, too! I always thought it proper to wear pantyhose rather than going bare-legged. Oh, in the warmer months I will go bare-legged under my skirts and dresses around the house and to the store, but not to church (unless it's pathetically hot outside). A proper, well-dressed lady wears appropriate hosiery. Thank you, Princess Kate for eschewing fashion for appropriateness.

Slips are supposed to be out of fashion, too. That is, unless you wear them as a dress or skirt with some other funky duds. I heard one fashion guru yell, "What are you, a granny?" to a middle aged woman who wore one under her skirt. "What are you afraid of showing through your skirt, leg," he asked her in his shocked tone.
Of course, I was brought up with the belief that a proper lady wears a slip under her dresses and skirts to avoid the sun-through peep show. If my mom could see the silhouette of my legs through my skirt or dress, I was promptly ushered back to my room to put on a slip. Yes, I still wear slips.

I guess I'll just remain out of fashion!

Farm Animal Dreams

2012-01-19T12:53:00.000-05:00

I'd like chickens. This family can go through up to 7 eggs at one breakfast. You know that number is only going to go up as our family size grows and our children (especially the boys) grow. Hubby isn't all too fond of chickens, though.

So, we've discussed quail. Of course, quail eggs are ridiculously small, sooooo....

Hubby likes pheasants. I do too, for that matter.

I'd also like a goat in milk. If we ever get a farm, hubby wants a cow, perhaps two (for rotation) to keep us in milk. For our current little slice of God's creation, we can really only have a goat, preferably a miniature or dwarf one.

However, this year, we are considering pigs. My garden has diminished in quality over the years despite crop rotation and compost/manure additions. My father used to let his garden rest every 7 years. I am considering this year to be a year of rest for the garden. In its place, we're thinking of some spring pigs to till it up and fertilize it. The pigs will then be butchered in Autumn and distributed to my family.

One thing for sure is we're getting ducks again. After last year's sadness at losing the ducks to a coyote (or other such predator), we've worked out better fencing and housing to protect our quackers. My oldest is eager to take care of "his ducks" come Spring.

Baby Announcement!

2012-01-18T19:49:00.000-05:00

Another boy!! Very clearly a boy! Baby is doing well, but my placenta is low lying. I'll receive another ultrasound in a couple of months to see if it'll interfere with the cervix opening. Not sure what all this means for the delivery of my baby.

Boden Spring Catalog Sigh List

2012-01-17T06:32:00.000-05:00

Oh, I folded over many more pages in the catalog that I'm showing here, but these are my stand outs, for sure! For some reason, some of them only came out as thumbnails, so for those, I linked them to the catalog page online.

Hubby likes this dress, too! They have so many dresses I love this year, and so many are just perfect for that post partum nursing time with their empire waists (to better deal with the leftover preggy poochy tummy) and their surplice tops (the easier to access for nursing.)

I always like to try to get away from plain ol' scoops and v's when it comes to the basic T for the warmer months. I like the ruffles on this one. Still basic, casual, but with that something extra.

LOVE this dress! Love the style!

Vintage cute blouse with the scalloped edging down the front!

Love the large, jeweled buttons on this cardigan. It is so vintage-y!

Not in taupe...not my color...but the style I like!

Plimsolls! I want plimsolls this year!

This "jumper" (sweater), is styled so nicely.

I love this fun, spring jacket!

Hubby likes this skirt, too.

Whatever Happened To Paper Dolls?

2012-01-16T06:00:00.002-05:00

Vintage Finnish Paper Dolls

Paper dolls were one of my favorite toys as a child. I had a grocery bag filled with them! It was such a treat to go to the bookstore or department store and browse through the books of paper dolls. It was an even greater treat to go home with one and spend hours carefully cutting out every little garments and accessory. I love when the books included a nifty little pocket to keep everything in.

Now that I have a daughter, the store shelves are devoid of paper doll books. Melissa and Doug toys have replaced them with their magnetic dress-up dolls, of which my daughter has one and likes it well enough. But, it is just not the same nostalgia. I search on Amazon.com comes up with paper dolls, though. If money is tight, or you just want to get your daughter started on paper dolls, you can print many out online. A google image search comes up with many paper doll sets you can print out. Some you can even color!

Just as an aside, I know Mary Engelbreit magazine features a paper doll. Does anyone know if Betsy is still in the McCalls magazine?

Building His Curriculum

2012-01-15T07:53:00.000-05:00

After much discussion, research and thought, I am slowly deciding upon my oldest's 1st grade curriculum for this coming September. I've chosen so far:

Phonics Pathways OR A Beka Phonics: I'm leaning towards the former, but it is hard to ignore everybody and their mother telling me how perfectly wonderful A Beka Phonics is. I was given the K5 A Beka Phonics teacher's manual, charts and cards, so later this year I'm going to start it with my son. If it goes well, perhaps I'll continue. If not, I'm going back to square one with Phonics Pathways.

Saxon Math: I love the manipulatives this program offers. After reading the description in a couple of homeschooling catalogs, I think it'll be a good segue from the curriculum he's on now. Plus, it gets rave reviews in the classical education front.

Backyard Science: I thought I'd NEVER be able to settle on a science course for him. I know it isn't necessary for first grade, but his Answers in Genesis curriculum we're using now is very science-heavy and he loves it. As soon as I saw Backyard Science in a homeschool catalog, I KNEW this would be perfect for him. He loves relevant to him science.

Music: We plan on starting him on piano lessons....that is if I can get my foggy pregnant brain to remember to call the piano teacher to set up lessons!!!

Handwriting: Handwriting without tears appeals greatly to me. His handwriting is currently legible, but he doesn't write his letters correctly. Oh, they're shaped as the letter ought to be, but the flow isn't there. I guess the best way to describe it is that he draws his letters rather than write them.

I still need to settle on these subjects:

Reading:possible already connected to the phonics program

Language Arts: Spelling, Grammar

Art: I'd like to do one of the beginner/early drawing books

Copywork/Writing: He loves his copywork now. I plan on continuing, but I haven't settled on what.

Social Studies: A lot of programs for 1st graders are based on just community stuff, but he's doing that now in K5. I'd like to find something that broadens his horizons a little. Maybe I'll create my own based on our local community and branch out to the history of our area. I don't know yet.

Home Spa

2012-01-14T07:32:00.000-05:00

Let's face it. Spa treatments and a jacuzzi aren't in the budget. To top it off, it is getting harder and harder to find a trustworthy babysitter these days. Mine ate a multi-vitamin and grew up all of a sudden and is off to college. Don'tcha hate how fast kids grow up?

Anyhow, a couple years ago, hubby treated me to a day spa. 1 hour massage, full mani and pedi treatment. Oh, I loved it. LOVED IT! I decided after that that the only way I'd support Obamacare would be if such treatment was included. ;b

I've been wanting to treat myself again, but let's face it (again), it ain't gonna happen. I compromised by having my son drive his toy tractors on my back and taking showers while laying in a tub with the plug in.

I guess I got spoiled because it wasn't enough.

2011 Christmas season gave me an upgrade for my "home spa."

My parents got me the Conair Hydrotherapy Footbath Massager with Heat. Oooohhh....that was the springboard into my other purchases. It felt good! Not as good as a pedicure with massage, but hey, no machine can take the place of a human. By the way, don't you just love the sexy pointed foot in the picture. I thought that went out with cigarette ads in magazines! LOL!

Of course, in my search for the picture with the pointed foot, I found THIS foot bath massager, and now I want this one!

A trip to our brand new, local Kohl's yielded me this beauty. It's the Homedics Shiatsu Massage Cushion with Heat. Inexpensive (at least at Christmas time), and it works pretty well! Again, nothing like human hands, but it really does a good job. I use it on my back and even my feet. It's been a blessing with the aches and pains of this pregnancy.

My Kohl's shopping trip also got me this! It's not a fancy jacuzzi, but it does work pretty well! The jets are soothing in either jet or bubbly. They're adjustable and you can move the unit up and down your tub side to pinpoint where you want it. It won't break up muscle knots a jacuzzi, but the movement of water is very soothing. It's also got a nice white noise to it. Not too loud. It gives those rare soaking baths I take that extra little something.

So, while I feel a little twinge of guilt having bought some non necessities, I try to remember that I do a LOT and could use these treats. Plus, hubby is free to use them, too. The kiddos get a kick out of them. My sister tried the shiatsu massager and said, "I have to get one of these the next time I'm pregnant!" Life's little luxuries in a home with one simple bathroom. My own little home spa.....and far cheaper than the real deal!

See, God Knows!

2012-01-13T06:45:00.000-05:00

My God shall supply all your needs!

With this new baby on the way, hubby and I discussed what we will need. After all, 3 active children can do a hurtin' on baby gear. Our infant car seats both needed to be discarded. Our double stroller was torn, stained, and otherwise looking grim. The pack and play mat is damaged and flattened and unable to be used in the bassinet portion (where our babies spend their first several months sleeping, if not with mommy.)

This being our last child, I really did not want to spend a lot of money on new baby gear. I also didn't want to bother searching endlessly for used items (and having to travel hill and dale to retrieve them only to see they aren't what I'm looking for and feeling obligated to buy it anyway). I didn't want to borrow, either, since all of my children have been pretty destructive to things. One good puke in the carseat, and I'm not going to feel right returning it, no matter how much I clean it.

So, off I went on my regular shopping trip to Target to pick up my usual supplies. I almost didn't turn the corner to look at the pack and plays and strollers, but I did. Lo and behold, they had the perfect pack and play and the perfect stroller (with car seat!!) on clearance! One box left of each!

The pack and play is the same as the one shown above, except with a different pattern on the fabric. It's a really soothing, soft gray and yellow dot. What I really like is that the bassinet can adjust to raise the head in case your baby has reflux or a snotty nose!!

The stroller is a sit and stand stroller. It comes with the carseat that hooks in the front while a toddler can sit or stand in the back. With my peanut children, I could probably even fit 3 in here (check weight requirements)!

Retail: $280.00

I paid: $170.00!!!

Now, I just need a booster for my daughter. Not too worried. I'll keep my eye out at Big Lots, but Target has one that'll suit her just fine, AND has an added head support feature that I like for only $50.00!

We should be all set for the baby now! 5 more days and I'll find out the gender!

Food Rules and Compromises

2012-01-12T05:00:00.003-05:00

In my ideal world, I'd be eating 99% local, organically grown foods, many that I grew or raised myself. As it stands today, that is not the case, so I shop by some food rules and compromises.

1. Buying local doesn't work to well in the great northeast when you're dying for citrus or bananas. In this aspect, I try to at least buy USA only products.

2. Because we eat apples frequently, I have begun buying organic apples when I can. As for local, I don't know of any apple orchards in my local area that doesn't spray.

3. I have decided to buy tomato products in glass jars the best I can to avoid the BPA leeching from the acid.

4. I won't buy tomato soup, sauce or ketchup made with high fructose corn syrup or canola/soybean oil. (I did have major sticker shock when I bought a small glass jar of pasta sauce made with sugar and olive oil. Around $5.00!! Thankfully, my local Big Lots had larger jars of other brands, many organic for only $2.50. That still seems steep for someone used to buying the conventional can of sauce at under $1.00, but I'd rather spend the money on quality than waste it on non-foods.)

5. With 3 children, I cannot seem to break the cold cereal, pasta and mac and cheese habit. I do limit what kinds of cold cereal I buy. No colored sugary stuff, preferably organic (though I did just buy 5 boxes of Cheerios.) I try to limit pasta as much as possible, but sometime, you're just in the mood for a pile of angel hair! Mac and cheese, I buy organic/natural, either sales or store brand. Target had Annie's Mac and Cheese for 5 for $5.00 this week! My kiddos get mac and cheese once a week when Grandma babysits them. I send a box along to make it easy on my mom.

6. Meats. Once you go farm, you can't go back. I buy most of my meats from either a local farm, or a farm about 3 hours north (it gets shipped.) The one 3 hours north offers grass fed, pastured meats. They're actually not that much more expensive than what you'd find at the grocery store, unless, like me, you're used to buying whatever is on sale and has a soon-to-expire coupon on it. But after tasting these locally farmed meats (and having some bad experiences with grocery store meats), I'm hooked on the farmed meats. I do have to compromise occasionally with chicken

7. Eggs. I get local eggs. They're partially grain fed, but at least they're local and get sunshine, air, and scratching rights to the ground. When you live in the great northeast, it's hard to avoid grain feeding animals when half your year is winter. ;b I cringe at the expensive eggs in the grocery story where it proudly proclaims on the box (chickens fed a vegetarian diet of soy and corn.) And that's supposed to be good? I want to get my own chickens, but hubby's not at all fond of the birds.

8. Milk. No compromise here. I HAVE to get raw milk. My daughter cannot drink pasteurized milk. It messes up her digestive tract BAD! I'm intolerant to pasteurized milk. I can drink a little, but more than a few ounces and I'm digestively off, too. Amazingly, we drink 4 gallons a week!!!! That's expensive, but SO worth it!

9. Bread. I would love to make my own, but there's only so much a woman can do in one day! Besides, it would take a while to break certain members of my family...ahem... from eating crappy white bread in a bag. I compromise and for the kiddos and hubby, I get Arnold's sandwich bread (no high fructose corn syrup.) For me, I do better with the sprouted grain breads you buy frozen in the organic section of the grocery store.

10. Otherwise, I try to buy local when I can, or at least USA food products. I try to avoid big name brands like Kraft. I try to make my own when I can. I try to eat as many natural products as possible (as opposed to processed). Instead of a bag of frozen french fries, I buy a bag of potatoes and make my own. Stuff like that.

What are your food rules and compromises?

For another family's food rules and compromises, check out: http://plainandjoyfulliving.blogspot.com/2012/01/food-compromises.html

Preparing for Next School Year

2012-01-10T14:55:00.002-05:00

It is never to early in the year to prepare for the next in regards to homeschooling, at least for this beginner. I also live in a State that has stricter rules and requires more from parents. I'd like to have all my i's dotted and t's crossed.

I love the Answers in Genesis curriculum I'm using for my 5 year old. I LOVE it. It makes me wish they'd continue with more full on curricula for every grade. It seems as if they lean towards Alpha Omega, though I could be wrong, for continuing home education.

I looked up Alpha Omega and it didn't feel right.

A Beka is probably the most popular curriculum in the local homeschooling community. Having the local support (and access to cheap, used curricula) is a plus, but it doesn't settle with me, either. I have been able to look through the K5 phonics, reading and writing teacher's manual, and it makes my head spin. Not the academics, mind you, just the way it is set up and presented.

Vertias Press is appealing to me ego. Yeah. Supreme Classical Education!! Yet, I have a child who is not a classically minded learner. I think I'd have to redo kindergarten for him. I think their 1st grade would be too much. I may be wrong, though, so it is on the list.

Sonlight has always felt good to me. For some reason, when I look at the Sonlight curriculum, I feel like it is best suited for my son and I. It is also terribly expensive, but I think I can whittle down the expense.

I'll be honest. I'd really hate to bounce from curriculum to curriculum. I'd like to stick with one and go, so for me it is intimidating to just choose. The other option is to custom build a curriculum. I'd rather have it all laid out for me, mostly because I want to make sure I cover all the bases.

I'd be eager to read your opinions, suggestions, and stories about what your homeschool curriculum is.

Citrus Season!

2012-01-09T15:07:00.003-05:00

I could never be a true locavore. I don't even think our summers could sustain a citrus tree! I just love citrus too much to give it up, however, I do check to make sure it comes from the USA.

Last week, I was finally able to purchase my favorite orange available here in the frozen north; cara cara oranges!

Cara Cara Oranges

Pink Grapefruit

Lemons

Limes

That is how my citrus love list goes.

I'd love to hear from you what your favorite orange or citrus fruit is!

There's Something About Dreft

2012-01-05T19:19:00.000-05:00

I splurged and bought a bottle of Dreft laundry detergent.

There's just something about the smell that I love. It relaxes me and makes laundry doing more enjoyable.

There's just something about baby clothes washed in Dreft.

There's just something about using Dreft that makes me want to redo my laundry area!

There's just something so vintage and homey about Dreft.

Do you have a favorite detergent?

Something About Library Books

2012-01-04T19:06:00.002-05:00

We have books.

We have a lot of books.

So, I go to the library and get more books

because

There is something about library books.

I feel compelled to read them whereas books I own don't seem to beckon me so.

Apron Therapy

2012-01-03T19:30:00.002-05:00

You can download patterns for these aprons HERE.

It felt good to get back into routine after the holidays. Thankful for the burst of 2nd trimester energy, I was able to get plenty done today.

As I worked, I thought about my 3 year old daughter:

She loves to help me in the kitchen.

I wish she helped more around the house. Even with asking/telling/leading/instructing she is very reluctant to do her tasks.

She is upset that Daddy spends so much time with big brother. Big brother is at that perfect little boy age where he just HAS to pal around with Daddy.

She is emotional and prone to break downs.

She craves one on one attention.

While thinking these things over, a thought popped into my head: APRON THERAPY!

When she's reluctant to help,

When she's upset that she can't go with big brother and Daddy,

When she's over emotional and breaking down,

When she obviously needs some one on one attention,

I will do my best to set aside time for apron therapy.

We'll don our aprons and set to work together on something. Just her and I. Perhaps baking some cupcakes, or preparing dinner together....I'll start with kitchen tasks since she loves to help in the kitchen. Then I'll slowly move on to other chores we can work together on, in our aprons, chatting away and taking plenty of breaks for hugs and snuggles.

After all, that's what Daddy and Big brother do, in their own manly way. :)

And yes, we do make sure she gets one on one Daddy time, too.

New for the New Year

2011-12-29T13:27:00.003-05:00

As always, I am looking forward to the turn of the New Year. I love the fresh start and hope to dedicate January to clean slating! I've already begun the clean and purge. There is just something about increased sunshine, cooped up winter days, the putting away of Christmas decorations, and this year the nesting instincts that has me geared up to really get a good grip on the house this year.

We will be in this little cottage for at least another year. Having that clear answer from hubby, and his ideas for home improvements (more new windows!) has me excited!

January 18th, I find out the gender of the baby! After hearing the heartbeat at my last appointment, I think I may be having another boy. The rate was 148 beats per minute. My boys tend to range lower, usually in the 150's. My daughter was in the 160's. Regardless which gender is floating around in me, once I know, I can purge the basement of at least half the baby stuff we've accumulated over the years. A whole gender of baby clothes will be sent out!

I am also renewing my household mission of cleaner and greener living. I will be purging the house of candies and cookies and other junk food. I've already begun carefully label reading at the grocery store (did you know jars of pickles contain artificial colors?!) and trying to buy more organic. Regardless, I try to buy produce that is from the USA (bananas are the exception.)

Besides food, I hope to reduce chemical nasties in the house. I also want to make sure I recycle everything that I can. No more hapless tossing into the garbage.

For myself, my goal is to allow myself relaxation time. I've martyred myself to the motherhood cause long enough. Ever since I finally got my long hair cut, I've realized that it's totally ok for mom to take a breather and in fact helps me be a happier, healthier wife and mother. I got a foot bath massager for my birthday and I went out and bought a shiatsu massager and a jet bath attachment. Hubby remarked how much he likes that I take time to paint my toenails. On top of that I finally bought my first own curling iron and blow dryer! It is true I've gotten a bit frumpy over the years and that is ending.

So, that's that! What are you planning on for the New Year?

I Have Fallen In Love

2011-12-19T13:54:00.002-05:00

with a house. My father's cousin is selling a post WWII house not too far away that has stolen my heart. It has many features I have on my list of what my dream house consists of, including a foyer with coat closet, a pantry in the kitchen, a dishwasher, a fireplace (2, actually), and a corner China cabinet in the dining room. Added bonuses are a dry, semi-finished basement, 4 bedrooms, all appliances included, and a good sized piece of land in the country. There is also a two story playhouse, a play cabin, and a large garage with attic storage! I am in love! It would take a miracle and so far hubby is silent on whether or not we want to.pursue it. So, I am doing the best and only thing I can do right now. I am praying about it.

Happy Birthday To Me!

2011-12-15T07:12:00.002-05:00

Today, I turn 31! I planned on my 30's being my best decade ever, but 30-31 wasn't exactly a great year. Not horrible, mind you. Just not GREAT. The Lord worked through many hardships and stresses and that alone is a blessing. So, I'm hoping for a better 31! Nothing can top having a baby, though!

It is only the morning, but I've already spent my birthday soaking in the tub, making blueberry muffins, and chatting with a friend on facebook. She promises to save me some cookies from her Christmas baking! Yum!

Otherwise, I'm just spending my day with my kiddos and trying to decide between spending my birthday money at Bulk Herb Store or buy a shiatsu lumbar massager. Hmmmm....decisions decisions.

Oils for Teeth

2011-12-12T11:20:00.003-05:00

This weekend I woke up to a toothache. In between two of my bottom right molars it hurts. I'm not sure if it is a cavity in one of the molars, or the gums are infected. Until a see a dentist, I'm trying some at home remedies.

The first thing I did was begin oil pulling. Using extra virgin olive oil, I swish and pull it through my teeth. After just one session, the pain went from sharp to a dull ache. I am continuing to oil pull 2-3 times a day.

I'm also making sure I don't eat on that side of my mouth. I'm brushing, flossing, mouthwashing, and hydrogen peroxiding at least twice a day.

So far, the pain is gone unless I touch that area. Pressing on the teeth is just a tiny bit uncomfortable, but when I floss between, it hurts. So I'm stumped. Is it my gums, or an in between the molars, gum line cavity? I guess only the dentist would know.

I am also planning on starting a course of x-factor butter oil and fermented cod liver oil. The Healthy Home Economist was able to heal her son's cavity this way. Hopefully that'll do the trick.

Any other suggestions?

A bit of a make-over...and a preggy belly pic!

2011-12-08T10:12:00.003-05:00

BEFORE!

DURING

AFTER!

New hair and 13 weeks pregnant!

I welcome the change. I LOVE my hair! So many people thought I would be upset. That I'd cry, if not that day, then the next. I didn't cry. I smiled and I'm still smiling! I don't even really miss my long hair and am excited to do so much with my short hair. Also, the nice surprise, those curls and waves are natural! Who knew!?

Weirdos!

2011-12-05T19:18:00.002-05:00

I love being friends with weirdos! I grew up a weirdo from a family of weirdos. It instilled vast amounts of creativity and exploration. When I started re-enacting, I met more weirdos! Weirdos who knew how to brain tan, finger weave, play multiple obscure instruments from time periods past, play the Star Wars theme on bagpipes! I met historical fencing experts, herbalists, historical seamstresses and tailors, wig makers. I met people who still make hominy using their own homemade potash. I met people who collect fantasy-fiction memorabilia like its precious gems. I met zealots, Christians, pagans, liberals, conservatives, libertarians, brain surgeons, war horse experts, authors, the list goes on and on!

Add to that the internet world, and the weirdos just keep increasing! I meet people from all walks, many of whom I'd disagree with on many stances, but there's just something about them that makes me like them! I like REAL people. People who are honest, even if I don't agree with their stances on things. I like people who are genuinely interesting and present themselves, even in their weird way, with confidence and sincerity....and share some basic interest with me, be it simple living, vintage living, farming, gardening, sewing/needlework, certain arts, books, religious beliefs, etc etc etc.

Weirdos are great!

And as a side note, no Gonzo is not my all time favorite Muppet. Rizzo the rat is!

BIG Vision Forum Giveaway!

2011-11-22T06:01:00.002-05:00

A Wise Woman Builds Her Home is hostessing a big giveaway of Vision Forum gift certificates! Here's a chance to build up your CHRISTIAN BOOK library! Vision Forum has so many other great things, too. DVD's, music, toys, kits! The winners are going to have an easy time using up their gift cards!

Crochet Inspiration

2011-11-21T19:35:00.002-05:00

I saw this book in my latest catalog from Victorian Trading Company and just HAD to research it more. I popped on over to amazon.com to get a better look and read reviews. It is now on my Amazon.com wishlist.

The most I've ever been able to crochet is a chain. I tried it as a child and could never figure out how to do anything more beyond a chain. I preferred sewing and cross stitch embroidery. Both came more easily to me. However, this book has inspired me to perhaps try crochet again.

An Unlikely Vintage TV Housewife to Glean From

2011-11-12T11:32:00.000-05:00

Oh, we all hear about Donna Reed or June Cleaver in the vintage housewife blogosphere, but no one talks about Morticia Addams!

Ok ok ok, hear me out!

Feeling very poorly the other day, I lay in bed and started watching reruns of the old Addams Family series. I started to think, "I wish I was more like Morticia." It made me chuckle, and ponder as to why! Certainly, it is not for her darkness and love of all things gloomy and dreary, but a few characteristics did stand out:

1. Morticia and Gomez have an equal and loving.....and sexy relationship. I noticed in other vintage TV shows, the spouses seem to talk down to each other, though very subtly. The husband puts his all knowing foot down, the wife uses her feminine whiles and trickeries. Morticia and Gomez actually discuss on equal plains whatever the issue is. While other TV housewives seem to have a more platonic relationship with their husbands, Gomez and Morticia are obviously madly in love with each other, and unafraid to show it. After all, they don't subscribe to the proprieties of the time. (Although, I was pleased to discover that Morticia strongly believes in purity before marriage as indicated in an early episode.)

2. Morticia is a generous and naturally hospitable woman. It isn't about social airs or schmoozing. She loves hostessing and being generous to people. Granted, you may find yourself drinking henbane tea or taking a lie down in the guest room nail bed, but she's not arrogant, needy or having ulterior motives. If she invites you over to discuss something, she intends to discuss it, not warm you over.

3. Morticia loves her children and they respect her. The back talk in The Donna Reed Show bothered me. She also fights for what she believes is right for her children and she expects them to be well behaved around other people. She admonishes her children to not brag about their better upbringing.

4. Morticia is always busy. Sure, she doesn't mop floors in heels and pearls, but she keeps herself busy. Her hands are never idle, whether it is feeding Cleopatra (her carnivorous plant), supporting her husband's hobby, or knitting in the evenings, Morticia is very industrious.

5. Morticia is generous. She is always making something for someone in the family, usually odd and ugly sweaters.

6. Morticia is never hurried. Of course, she can't move very fast in that slim skirted dress she wears, but she doesn't get flustered and panicked.

Granted, I'm being a bit tongue in cheek, but, still! LOL!

10 Random Things About Me

2011-11-10T11:19:00.003-05:00

As they pop into my head, here goes:

1. I don't own Crocs and don't really plan on it, either.

2. I am very weak during pregnancy with bouts of strength (like moving and lifting 4 studded snow tires for my truck into the back of my truck!)

3. I want to live for a season in a travel trailer with my family.

4. I like to chicken scratch embroider, though I haven't done it in years.

5. I LOVE Indian food.

6. I am desperate for back and foot massages every day....and I never get them.

7. I want a whirlpool tub.

8. I've been watching reruns of the Addams Family.

9. I hope I'm having a girl.

10. I love vintage stationary.

Bettina's Applesauce Cake

2011-11-08T10:45:00.002-05:00

I made Bettina's Apple Sauce Cake from A Thousand Ways to Please a Husband with Bettina's Best Recipes for breakfast this morning. It was so yummy and so comforting. I love how the butter-based batter cooked up. Usually, the cakes and quick breads I make are fruit puree or milk and egg based.

Always one to tamper with a recipe, though, I did use a bit less sugar, omitted the dates and nuts to make it more palatable for my children, used shredded apple rather than apple sauce, and accidentally poured in more vanilla than was called for. I also used white whole wheat and spelt flour. It still came out so yummy!

The Warm, Comforting, Familiar Glow

2011-11-06T06:41:00.003-05:00

My childhood memories are dappled with reminiscing about that old kerosene heater we had. Granted, we had two of the rectangle ones, not the round ones like mine above, but I lit mine last night for a warm, comforting, familiar glance into my past.

I remember curling up with my cat in front of the heater. Our old house was often so cold! I remember getting dressed in front of the heater. I devised a way to modestly change clothes so I didn't have to leave that warm glow. I remember evenings where the only light came from the kerosene heaters and the dials on the radio because my parents were trying to save electricity.

I bought a kerosene heater recently when the threat of an early winter storm sent out warnings of loss of electricity. We didn't lose power, thankfully, but I decided to light the heater last night anyway. Oh, what fond memories it brought back. What comfort. What WARMTH!

You Can't Beat.....

2011-11-02T19:38:00.000-04:00

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

with

Raw Manuka Honey

When you are pregnant.

Baby # 4!!!

2011-11-01T19:32:00.003-04:00

Isn't this a great 8 week ultrasound picture!? Usually, I just see a jellybean in there, but this one came up so clear! Head, cute round tummy, arms and legs all tucked. And when I saw that heart beating away so strong, I just lifted up praises to the King!

I have to say, it felt SO good walking into that familiar office and then seeing my little one so healthy and well. He or she was probably asleep because they didn't move about. I remember seeing my first bouncing around like a mexican jumping bean! I'm looking forward to another ultrasound at 12 weeks.

Praise be to God for this amazing miracle, this LIFE growing within me!

Secret Hopes

2011-10-25T10:42:00.003-04:00

Shhhhhh.......don't spread it around, but I have to admit that I am secretly hoping for twins! I doubt I am pregnant with twins because I figure I'd feel very VERY sick if it were twins, but twins sound good to me. I'll find out November 1st. I decided to stick with my usual OB and birthing hospital and he always performs an ultrasound on the first visit. I know there are those who believe in as few ultrasounds as possible, but I like seeing my little jelly bean as soon as possible.

I also found a house in Amish country for sale for an unbelievably affordable price. (I know, first thought is what's wrong with it.) It's a cute Cape Cod style cottage with nearly 10 acres of land, a barn and two car garage. 4 bedrooms! I don't think it is going to happen, but we'll see.

Strange Pregnancy Symptoms

2011-10-24T12:36:00.002-04:00

Have you ever had any unusual or out of the ordinary pregnancy symptoms? I have the usual fatigue and nausea, food and smell aversions. But, this pregnancy, I'm also experiencing claustrophobia! I can't stand when people crowd around me. I don't like being in small spaces. Even taking a shower drives me bonkers because I'm in that enclosed space! It bothers me, but it is also kind of funny because I know how ridiculous it is. Thankfully, it is only temporary and this baby is so worth all the oddities that occur with each pregnancy. As a side thought, it is also kind of ironic that I have claustrophobia this pregnancy because our little cottage is too small for us now and will be uncomfortably tiny once the new baby arrives. We're praying and trusting in the Lord to provide us with a larger home one way or another.

So, I'm curious! Please share your unusual symptoms!

Another One On The Way!!

2011-10-21T11:29:00.002-04:00

I am unexpectedly, but happily pregnant again. Ok, well, I'm not happily pregnant. Well, I am, but I'm not. LOL! What I mean is I am happy to be having another baby, but I have to admit, I don't like being pregnant. I'll take labor and delivery over 1st trimester symptoms any day! Ugh!

Adding to the difficulty is trying to decided where to birth and who will attend? Should I stick with my usual OB (who's pushed inductions the last two times? Thankfully, I avoided them!) Should I go with a team of midwives who deliver at my usual hospital (the same hospital that has a really crappy recovery, is overcrowded now and ripped off my insurance company)? Should I go for a midwife and deliver at a hospital that has a poor reputation, is far for my husband to get to should he be working out of town when I deliver, but my sister had a good birthing experience there? There are no independent birthing centers here and home birth is not an option.

I don't know. It's driving me nuts. I'm too pregnant to make decisions for myself! LOL! Someone tell me what to do! LOL!

100 Books to Read to a Child Before Kindergarten

2011-10-10T20:06:00.004-04:00

Do you remember those book lists that were put out listing the 100 books you should read? I wondered today, if there were such a list called 100 Books to Read to a Child Before Kindergarten, what books would be on that list? I asked on my Facebook page and got several suggestions:

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
Millions of Cats

The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Good Night Moon
Pat the Bunny

Guess How Much I Love You

Brown Bear Brown Bear

What Do You See

Are You My Mother
The Little Engine That Could

The Poky Little Puppy

Llama Llama Red Pajama

Leading Little Ones To God

My Aunt, a dedicated educator offered this list:

The Dr. Seuss books, The Winnie the Pooh books, Corduroy the Bear books, Paddington Bear books. The real Grimms fairy tales (edit as you read to be developmentally appropriate) - not the Disney versions. Same with Anderson's Fairy Tales. Mother Goose. Where the Wild Things Are. Harold and the Purple Crayon. Owl Moon. Click Clack Moo. So many books, so little time... books by Patrica Polacco, The Little Prince, Make Way for Ducklings, Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, Berenstain Bear books, Curious George, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Frog and Toad, Mr. Poppers Penguins, Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. Ferdinand the Bull, Little Toot the Tugboat, A Children's Garden of Verses, Runaway Bunny, Velveteen Rabbit

In addition, I decide to do a search for a classical education book list for preschoolers and Kindergarteners. I came across this:

1000 Good Books List

and this:

Reading List for Preschool and Kindergarten

I printed out the latter and am already tackling it with the ones we already own!

I've been looking forward to compiling a reading list since we started homeschooling this year. Not that I haven't read to them. Before, though, it was just whatever I happened to grab off the shelf, or whatever they chose. I've been plagued with a sore throat and bogged down vocal chords for nearly 6 weeks now, so that's hindered homeschool reading. Now that I have a list, I'm fighting through it.

Touching, Interesting Video

2011-10-06T19:42:00.000-04:00

This video's emphasis on the "green" method of lighting in a poor area. But, what strikes me about this video is how happy they are with something so simple. Something many of us would shrink at the thought of, they are excited about! I see their houses and think, "what a way to live! Who am I to complain about my little cottage?" And yet, they seem content, organized. So little means so much to them.

A Use For Recalled Cribs

2011-10-05T19:38:00.002-04:00

I saw this image on facebook as an idea for a use for all those recalled cribs out there. I LOVE it! As a matter of fact, I have a recalled crib with one broken side sitting out in my storage shed. I'd love to do this with it, but I simply do not have room in my house for it.

May I Take Your Order?

2011-10-03T11:48:00.003-04:00

When I was a little girl, my cousin and I were spending the day at Grandma's house. Grandma didn't keep toys at her house for the grandchildren, but that didn't stop us from having enormous amounts of creative fun. One game we liked in particular involved simply a broken phone, a calculator, a pen and mail order fliers from the weekly coupon inserts. For hours we'd pretend to take calls from customers, filling out the order forms and filing them carefully. Oddly enough, I was praised for my phone skills when I entered the working world.

Today, I introduced the game to my oldest after we finished homeschooling for the day. He loved it!

And then there's the accidental bad mothering turned good that happened last week. My 3 year old needed occupation, so I gave her the only sheet of paper I had on hand to draw on. I was busy with one thing or another when my 5 year asked for paper. Not wanting to be interrupted again searching for a piece of paper, I handed him hubby's Want Ad Digest and a pen and told him to circle anything he'd like to have for his future farm. Well, that was last week and he is still circling. Daddy picked up a new Want Ad on Sunday and 5 year old has already attacked that with circling and "notes" scribbled in the margins.

All this begs to question: Do children really need toys?! LOL!

A Fireplace of My Own

2011-10-02T07:30:00.000-04:00

Oh, for a fireplace. Our little cottage is sorely lacking in one. It just seems fitting that our little "hobbit hole" ought to have one! Of course, affording the installation for a real fireplace is well beyond our means. My attention turns to the electric and gel fireplace units you can get. I keep hoping their prices drop, but no such luck. Even our local Big Lots store sells them at a price I cringe at.

So, I started brain storming again. It isn't so much the heat I want or need our of a fireplace as the ambiance. And ever since I visited a friend's house when I was first married and saw she had placed a grouping of pillar candles within her real (but unusable) fireplace, I was hooked. I loved it! Simple, inexpensive, easy, and lovely!

So, how can I achieve that? I'm wondering how much it would cost to build a simple box fireplace out of wood (with some sort of flame proof interior) and surround it with a lovely mantle and surround? I'm thinking a mirror behind the candles would be lovely, too. Or if not a mirror, then tin. A patina'd tin. Could I pull it off? I wonder......

Alternative to Netflix

2011-10-01T11:20:00.000-04:00

We have Netflix and aren't really looking into getting rid of it, personally, but I have heard from some of my Christian friends that they got rid of Netflix. Many of them had the same reason: You couldn't browse through Netflix at all without getting an eye full! It's a pain weeding through all the garbage to find the few good movies. Even their Faith and Spirituality section was loaded with assaults on Christianity.

I agree with them! I remember a couple of times browsing through Netflix on the Wii and coming across DVD covers that were scary for my children or embarrassingly indecent or even outright disgusting! Netflix doesn't seem to have a filter for such things.

There are other options, my friends. Here are two resources to get more wholesome and more Christian programming.

http://www.christiancinema.com/dvdrental/default.php

http://bluebehemoth.com/

Another Flag Received

2011-09-29T16:23:00.000-04:00

Open Door Policy

2011-09-28T12:20:00.000-04:00

Caroline's Kitchen/Dorthea Lange
http://vi.sualize.us/view/randxm/7d76aaa575922aa2d5b561389076eba1/

I have to admit that I love that my mother and I have an open door policy. No knocking or doorbells needed. We just open the door and let ourselves in to each other's houses. Of course, we have the common courtesy of notification first, for the most part. Though, "dropping in" is welcomed, too.

I think it is a beautiful and comforting thing between my mother and I.

Pattern Envy

2011-09-27T04:59:00.000-04:00

I want this pattern.

I've Awakened My Son

2011-09-26T13:34:00.000-04:00

I didn't realize when I started this year that homeschooling would awaken my oldest son! Throughout the last 2 years, I've noticed a decline in his enthusiasm, imagination and activity. I stopped wanting to help. He just wanted to sit and watch TV. Oh, he'd still play, but his play and his art lacked development and imagination. I worried and I knew why it happened. A very difficult pregnancy followed by a very difficult year of illnesses, challenging events, changes, etc forced me to rely on the "electronic babysitter" too much. It got to a point where if the TV was off, he didn't know what to do with himself!

We had little improvements once things settled more, but it wasn't until I started homeschooling him that he blossomed and grew! He's a big helper now. He's more cheerful, joyful, reasonable, imaginative, responsible, playful....and he's soaking things up like a sponge! More than I could have asked for!

And while homeschooling has its own challenges, it warms my heart when I say, "school time" and he responds with, "Yay" as he runs to our school room.

Germ Warfare

2011-09-25T04:16:00.003-04:00

As public school begins, even though we homeschool, I begin my germ warfare against the common cold. It is inevitable that as soon as large groups of children join together, illness breaks out. So, I started this September with adding an immune booster to our diet.

Unfortunately, the common cold still got a hold of us. It took advantage of our weakened states from suffering the ill effects of contaminated well water after the massive rainfalls of Tropical Storms Irene and Lee. It took advantage of my 3 year old's weakened immune system from her extremely picking eating habits and gut problems. Thankfully, even in her weakened state, the immune boosters (and simply being a child) helped and she recovered within 3 days with nothing more than plenty of nose rubbing and fussing.

The baby got it next with tell-tale fussiness, congestion that kept him up all night, and a runny nose. Although he's too young for me to comfortably give him supplements, he recovered quickly, too, thanks to his overall health, well-being and vitality.

But then, I got it. As soon as I felt that prickle in the back of my throat, I upped my supplementation to battlefield levels. Plenty of vitamin C, extra immune boosters, echinacea, garlic and extra multi vitamins. Herbal teas were increased.

Colds run the same course for me. I start out with the scratch in my throat. Then, it's 2-3 days of a burning sore throat, often with earaches. After that is a day of congestion followed by a day of my nose turning into a faucet. Then, some more congestion and earaches as the mucus gels into that green, thick stuff that you blow out all at once and feel better afterwards. That usually lasts from 2-5 days.

Now that I supplement and engage in germ warfare, the colds follow the same path but with less severity and a shorter duration. This time around, the sore throat was very mild. It felt more like I spent the night sleeping with my mouth open rather than the inflammed, on fire burning. The congestion part was very mild, too. I could breathe through both nostrils at all times.

I am currently in the middle part of the cold as I type this. I've been up since 3 am because this cold does have a uniqueness to it in that the overall congestion (not just nasal) settles at night and makes it hard to breathe. I spend a good hour just clearing myself of it. I also have a dry cough probably associated with an irritated throat from acid reflux I've recently started suffering with along with the irritation of the sore throat I had with this cold. The congestion and associated pain along with the coughing has greatly reduced now that I've had a cup of chamomile tea with Manuka Honey.

Tea tree oil is also an important part of my warfare against the cold. I dab some on a cotton ball and put it on top of the humidifier in my children's room as a safer and more effective alternative to Vicks.

I also believe in the helpfulness of medicinal doses of a good single malt scotch. Yes, I've had some people raise eyebrows in obvious protest to the use of alcohol, but these same people have no problem drowning their viral sorrows in Nyquil, a chemical (and, yes, alcohol) laden medication. I'll take the scotch and my herbal remedies, thank you. I'm trying to kill this cold, not suppress the symptoms and possibly causing the cold to drag on.

Usually, if I get attacked by a cold when I'm in a particularly healthful state, I can successfully kill the cold in a couple of days with very mild symptoms. But since I went into this cold already compromised (and naughtily enjoying junk food which does nothing but make the immune food work harder and weaken more), I'm paying the price. Thankfully, the supplements make it a lot less miserable than it could be.

Update: I chickened out on Sunday and bought OTC meds for cough and cold and possible allergies....yep, one of those all-in-one cocktails. I was sick of being sick and wanted to go to church. Well, it didn't do much but make me feel worse. I should have stayed home, slept and let the mucus work its own way out. After all, that's what it was trying to do when I forced the symptoms to slow with chemicals. I was so miserable by the evening, that I caved and went to Urgent Care for antibiotics.

I know full well that antibiotics don't do anything for viral infections and it was most likely I had a viral infection. I also know how antibiotics can do harm, possibly irreversible harm, to my already damaged gut from the contaminated well (and junk food...ahem...2 donuts in 1 week? What as I thinking?!) So, I got the script, but thankfully the pharmacies were closed, giving me time to "sleep on it."

I woke up feeling miserable, took my supplements and considered the script again. I normally wouldn't feel so pressed, but I have my grandfather's wake and funeral this week. But, as I had my tea and hopped in the shower, things started to work as nature intended them and I was able to expel a fair amount of the irritants and realize that I am indeed not falling into bronchitis, but just suffering from a settled cold.

So, after tomorrow (because after the funeral, we're having a luncheon at a fantastic Italian restaurant) I am going on a GAPS-inspired diet. I'm sick of being sick. I've been sick this entire month. I also have some thoughts and ideas on improving the overall health of my home.

Welcome Home, Grandpa

2011-09-24T09:48:00.003-04:00

February 28, 1927 - September 24, 2011

He left a legacy of 3 Godly daughters, 10 Grandchildren, and 16 (and counting) Great-Grandchildren
He left a legacy of a Godly husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He leaves behind my Grandmother, one of the most graceful and faithful women I know.

He leaves behind 9 years of Alzheimers, Parkinsons, and lung cancer.

He goes on before us to be with our Savior.

Praise be to God!

It Happened One Night

2011-09-23T05:40:00.002-04:00

I was preparing to go to bed when I hear some fussing on the other side of the children's bedroom door. Upon investigation, I see two books poking out from underneath the door. When I opened the door, my daughter was on the floor in tears. I asked what was wrong and she said, "They're stuck!" I bent down and picked up the books and asked if she'd like me to read them to her. She smiled and said that she did. So, we sat down on the floor together just outside the bedroom door and I smiled as I discovered what books she had chosen:

As I read to her, she chimed in with comments and discoveries. She loved seeing what the little mommy did and ogled the little girl's illustrated bedroom. Hopefully next week my daughter will have a space to call her own, too. She loved that the baby in Baby Looks has a big sister.

When I finished Baby Looks and closed the book, my daughter carefully took the books from me, tucked them under her arm and went straight to bed without a peep.

Slow Clothing

2011-09-15T19:32:00.002-04:00

Lately, I've been interested in the budding movement called "Slow Clothing" or "Slow Fashion." Wikipedia describes it as:

"The term "Slow Fashion" was coined by Kate Fletcher in 2007 (Centre for Sustainable Fashion, UK).^[10] "Slow fashion is not a seasonal trend that comes and goes like animal print, but a sustainable fashion movement that is gaining momentum."^[11]

The Slow Fashion Movement is based on the same principals of the Slow Food Movement, as the alternative to mass produced clothing (AKA “Fast-Fashion”). Initially, The Slow Clothing Movement was intended to reject all mass produced clothing referring only to clothing made by hand,^[12] but has broadened to include many interpretations and is practiced in various ways.^[13]

Some examples of slow fashion practices include:

Opposing and boycotting mass produced fashion (AKA "Fast-Fashion" or "McFashion").
Choosing artisan products to support smaller businesses, fair trade and locally-made clothes.
Buying secondhand, vintage, and second-hand clothing and donating unwanted garments.
Choosing clothing made with sustainable, ethically-made or recycled fabrics.
Choosing quality garments that will last longer, transcend trends (a "classic" style), and be repairable.
Doing it yourself - making, mending, customizing, altering, and up-cycling your own clothing.
Slowing the rate of fashion consumption: buying fewer clothes less often.

The Slow Fashion movement is a unified representation of all the "sustainable", "eco", "green", and "ethical" fashion movements. It encourages education about the garment industry's connection and impact on the environment and depleting resources, slowing of the supply chain to reduce the number of trends and seasons, to encourage quality production, and return greater value to garments removing the image of disposability of fashion.^[14]^[15] A key phrase repeatedly heard in reference to Slow Fashion is "quality over quantity". This phrase is used to summarize the basic principles of slowing down the rate of clothing consumption by choosing garments that last longer.

The beauty of the Slow Fashion Movement is that anyone, no matter what price point they shop at or style aesthetic they choose, can practice it. It is a fashion philosophy that anyone can embrace and follow."

For me, it includes upcycling, mending, and making my own. It also includes the vast amounts of hand me downs I receive not only for my children, but for myself.

I'm also getting sick of the man made fabrics out there. It is virtually impossible to find natural fiber clothing in my price range unless it's a basic knit! Sometimes, I just want to wear something a little more tailored than basic knits! I have visions of swirly wool skirts in the wintertime. Tailored wool slacks, a la 1940's are also on my list. Who doesn't love a crisp cotton blouse or cotton velvet vest paired with a silk taffeta plaid skirt for Christmas?

I'm also looking into cutting up old jeans and making them into jeans for my 1 year old. Do you know how hard it is to find affordable, decent jeans that actually fit my peanut? I have a simple pants pattern (somewhere....where in the world did I put it!?) that takes less than an hour to make a pair of pants for a wee lad.

Are you interested in slow clothing? What ideas do you have?

Autumn Upon Us

2011-09-12T20:03:00.002-04:00

Photo Credits

With terrible weather and illness, we have missed the unofficial end of summer. Even the weather has changed. Throughout the neighborhood, I am beginning to smell wafts of wood smoke. Leaves are beginning to change and the garden browns. Today, I removed the air conditioner and put socks on my cold feet.

Still feeling the affects of quite an illness, which has been pretty much narrowed down to a contaminated well from the overflow of rains recently, I've been dreaming of a hearth to curl up in front of. I love that they make those electric or gel fireplaces now so anyone can enjoy a hearth. Some day I'll buy one.

In the meantime, knitting is starting to sound good again. Just sitting and knitting. I can't knit worth beans, but I can at least make squares and scarves and it is relaxing.

What's your favorite curl up in an Autumn evening activity?

Oh...and cinnamon rolls! Autumn beckons cinnamon rolls and apple cider donuts from a local orchard! Oh, I am so going to gain back to 7 lbs I lost during this illness!

A Very Trying 2 Weeks

2011-09-08T11:15:00.002-04:00

It started off with earthquakes, which I thankfully didn't feel here. Nevertheless, there were 2 local earthquakes and the large one in VA that many felt here in Upstate New York. Then, Hurricane Irene made landfall, downgraded to a tropical storm and slammed us with rain that caused record flooding and widespread destruction. Again, thankfully, I didn't get any more damage than a wet basement, 12 hours without power, and a few leaks, but it was a busy week trying to help out those who lost so much.

My efforts were cut short by the ravages of a nasty stomach flu, which happened to strike me the same time as a rare tornado cut through my neighborhood less than 1/2 a mile from my house, knocking out electricity for 30 hours, and closing the county down. The tornado was registered as an F1 1/2 a mile wide. It traveled down into the valley, across the river, and up over the other side of the valley in a north east path 7 miles long. How's that for unique!?

The day after the tornado hit, I was still without power, out of water, and quite dehydrated from running to the bathroom literally every 10 to 20 minutes! My mom took me to the ER where I received 2 bags of fluids and was sent home. I seemed on the mend, the power returned, and I was hoping for life to return to normalcy.

Well, the stomach flu lingers in a vicious way. Heavy rains have caused terrible flooding again and once again closed my county.

My 5 year old was able to raise $250! It will be delivered to the local farmer who is once again losing so much to the 2nd flooding in a week as soon as I recover from this wretched illness! As for the Hurricane Irene soaps, all is on hold until I am well again and I can leave my house!! For the 3rd time in less than 2 weeks, I am forced to stay home due to the county literally being closed. All travel is prohibited except for emergency.

May next week bring better health, better weather, and better news.

5 Year Old Helps Farmers

2011-09-01T15:44:00.004-04:00

Yes, that 5 year old is my son! He's got farming in his blood. He wants to be a farmer when he grows up and loves all things farming. Many of our local farmers lost crops, livestock and equipment right at the start of harvest season due to the massive flooding from Hurricane Irene here in Upstate New York. My son wants to help so we started a weekend long $1.00 Drive.

The collected monies will be personally handed to the local farmers (we're compiling a list) by Donald who will visit them on their farms.

Please consider donating. Donald is only asking for $1.00, but if you feel led to give more, you can.

Hurricane Irene Wipes Out Small Town Library's Children's Section

2011-08-31T20:33:00.002-04:00

Up in the Adirondack Mountains lay small communities, often of lower income mountain families, who rely on their public library for books for their children. In Upper Jay, NY, the Wells Library lost almost all of its children's section to the extensive flooding caused by Hurricane Irene. They are looking for donations of New Hardcover children's books.

Do you have a children's book favorite? Perhaps consider buying a copy and donating it. You could also donate money, or Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble gift cards. You could look through your children's book shelves and see if there are any books in like new condition you could mail up. Media mail is inexpensive, too.

Please consider donating. For more information, visit here:

http://www.katemessner.com/after-irene-a-small-town-adirondack-library-needs-your-help/

Switcheroo Mutually Approved!

2011-08-31T13:44:00.002-04:00

I am excited! I talked to hubby and we both agreed that we should switch bedrooms with the children. Our oldest hit a growth spurt and jumped up another 1 1/2 inches. His toddler-sized bed is no longer comfortable for him, but we can't fit the other two children in the room with a twin size bed in it.

I am so looking forward to carving out a nook for my little girl. Her own girly space. Hubby also gave me the go ahead to redo the smaller bedroom to a mutual decorating taste we share! I am so excited!

At the same time, I am humbled, thankful and grateful. While this little cottage is getting small for our growing family, at least I have a sweet cottage to call my own. So many lost their homes and possessions, pets and even more great a loss, loves ones in the recent flooding caused by Hurricane Irene.

I would greatly appreciate it if you would take the time to check out the Hurricane Irene soaps I am selling on etsy. Every soap labeled Hurricane Irene is being sold with 100% of the profits going to 3 families I've "adopted" who lost so much in the flooding. I will be making more soaps every evening, so if I sell out, please keep looking for more.

And People Wonder Why I Want to Homeschool?

2011-08-30T12:08:00.004-04:00

I read an article today, a commentary written in an area paper that really didn't help me to sympathize with our public school teachers. Why? If this statement really does echo how our teachers unions and teachers feel, then I find it disturbing:

I suppose the pendulum has swung to the other extreme from the days within our lifetime when teachers were venerated and idolized, the never-wrong authority figures to whom parents and students always deferred.

Um....really?!! I thought PARENTS are supposed to the authority in a child's life. I thought only GOD can be our "never-wrong authority." And deffer to a teacher? Perhaps working with the teacher for my child's education, yes, but deferring to them to make the ultimate decisions on behalf of my child? IDOLIZED?!?!

Granted, the author speaks of the pendulum swing which means from one extreme to the other. The ideal would be somewhere in the middle....parents and teachers working together for their child's education. Sure, I plan on homeschooling, but I also plan on utilizing some teachers to farther my children's education beyond what I am capable of. But, I will be working with the teachers, employing them, and not letting them overstep their boundaries into my parental authority. As far as I know, from the teachers I know, they are elated when parents utilize their parental authority! It makes their job easier and more successful for our children!

Still, I certainly hope teachers in general do NOT feel they ought to be as the statement above says.

Hurricane Irene Damage Near Me

2011-08-29T15:40:00.004-04:00

South west of me is a stunningly beautiful valley. This is a before shot of the valley, I believe from just last autumn.
And here is the valley after Hurricane Irene.

This is just a mile from my house. Thankfully, I'm up in the hills, so I had no damage, but in some of this footage, a friend of mine lost her house. Buried under water.

HERE is a youtube video of an historic site not too far from me. The water is supposed to be well behind the house. It hit flood stages and just kept going, higher and higher.

Hurricane Haikus

2011-08-28T19:39:00.007-04:00

While whittling away time on facebook today during Tropical Storm Irene, a facebook friend got me started on Hurricane Haikus. I thought I'd share them:

The wind is blowing.
Rain seeps into my basement.
Power, please stay on.

I've had one brown out.
Rain seeps in through kids' AC.
Damage has begun.

The wind is so strong.
My heart is pounding stronger.
Grammar: more strongly?

Facebook distracts me
From the wind and rain outside
As I write Haikus.

Leaking heater vent
In bathroom vent; and Cora
Has a stomach bug.

Prayers are lifted
For the locals flooded out
And other damage.

Stay off the roadways
All you crazy idiots!
Walmart stores can wait.

The frogs are croaking
Just outside my window.
Life returns for me.
But for many more

My heart breaks for flooded loss
And displaced people.
Such destruction here
But Upstate New York will be
Beautiful once more.

For picture of what Irene did in and around the local area, click HERE!

Marguerite Patten

2011-08-26T20:40:00.002-04:00

Marguerite Patten, then.

Marguerite Patten, OBE, now.

I have recently learned about Marguerite Patten, the home economics and wartime rationing and cooking queen of England. The little I've seen of her on BBC's "1940's House" reveals a woman of grace and positive thinking. I look forward to learning more about her and her home economics. I have found some of her books on etsy, but I am looking for her wartime rationing cookbook now.

She considers a field.....

2011-08-26T07:46:00.000-04:00

She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. Proverbs 31:16

Just down the road from my house a 2.3 acre field went up for sale. It has a stream down one side of it and woods about it, but nothing else. I want it. I would LOVE to have a patch of earth like that to plant my orchard, berry bushes, rhubarb row, and big ol' vegetable garden. Since it isn't too far away, I might even consider putting on some animals! I, personally think it's a little pricey for the area and local real estate market at $21,000, but oh how I'd like to have it!

The Great Switcheroo?

2011-08-25T09:51:00.002-04:00

I've been debating for a few weeks now whether or not to switch bedrooms with my children. Should life continue on the same path, it will be inevitable that they'll have to move to the master bedroom for the simple fact that they are growing. So, should I just delay matters, or get right to the point?

We live in a small 1950's cottage that only has 2 bedrooms. The master bedroom is 11x13 feet and the children's bedroom is a tiny 7x9 feet. Can you imagine that I'm squeezing 3 young children into that space? Before I start getting all sorts of nasty comments, let me assure you that they are comfortable and actually love being together like that. But, they are getting older. They are growing up.

My daughter doesn't really have a corner to call her own, other than her bed. I feel badly, especially since she does like to go off on her own and play and imagine. Having two brothers on either side of her in a small house, she's often overrun with trucks, tractors, noise, and construction zones.

That's another thing. If I gave them the larger room, I could possibly eliminate the toy zone in the living room. Granted, they do have a play area in the basement, but it is small and there's not really a lot of room for 3 children to spread out and play all at once.

Here's the clincher, though. In a 7x9 foot room, there's really only room for my husband and I's bed. Thankfully, it does have a walk-in closet. But, it would be a real challenge to fit all that two adults have into a room smaller than many people's closets!

Ideally, we need to move. We've outgrown this house. I try to be creative, thinking about decades past when families were larger and lived in smaller houses, but this is the 21st century. There are new standards, such as pubescent children not sharing rooms with their siblings of the opposite gender. Granted, my oldest is only 5, but the time will come.

The next ideal idea on the list is to add a loft bedroom in the attic.

In confusion and indecision, the best thing to do is pray and let the Lord lead.

More Wishes for My Little Cottage

2011-08-24T19:49:00.002-04:00

I thought of a couple more things I would like to have should we stay in our little cottage. I would like a root cellar. There is a small embankment behind our garage. That would be the perfect spot for a little root cellar.

A grain mill! I want a hand cranked one. The electric ones are only good should you have electricity. I like the security of not relying on electricity.

Looks Like I'll Be Sewing Again

2011-08-23T14:55:00.002-04:00

I was just asked to create a suit of clothes for the new chaplain of the 21st Regiment of Food (living history). I'll be a race to the finish as he'll need it for a wedding in October, but I am excited to sew again!

BOOK REVIEW

2011-08-19T22:17:00.002-04:00

The Frontiersman's Daughter by Laura Frantz

In typical Christian romantic fiction fashion, the book creates an angst that seems to draw in romantically starved teenage girls. It left me wanting to slap Lael upside the head and rolling my eyes at the cliches. Also, as an 18th century living historian, I was annoyed by once again, an author's lack of expertise in the area of clothing of the period.

Also, for a book marketed as a CHRISTIAN fiction, I found it a bit too risque. While some may laugh at me calling it risque, hear me out. A tangled web of romance between 3 men, mostly spurred by infatuations, the lead character sharing passionate kisses with all of them, and a near-naked evening swim with 1 of them. I guess it wouldn't bother me so much, but I know these books are devoured by impressionable teenage girls and I found it a bit much, remember my own impressionable teenage self. Granted, the lead character, Lael, wasn't saved, I still think it was a bit much.

The book drew me in and I had a hard time putting it down. I did like the frontier aspect and the simplicity of living. However, the book felt long....loooonnnngggg and ended rather abruptly, leaving some significant questions unanswered and characters suddenly dropped with little explanation.

All in all, I give the book 3 out of 5 stars. It is a fiction book and fiction books really are nothing more than a bit of fun, a pleasure, so I don't really expect outstanding historical accuracy or for them to conform to my moral comfort zone.

Making Do With Leftovers

2011-08-16T16:20:00.003-04:00

The making of culinary creations using leftovers used to be a housewife's skill. I'm not big on leftovers, myself, but in the name of thrift and less waste, (and the fact that I cleaned out my fridge today) I'm tackling some leftovers.

I have turned some old carrots, green beans from my garden, frozen corn, some leftover mashed potatoes and one lonely drumstick into a pot of nourishing soup with the simple addition of chicken broth I had on hand and some herbs and seasonings.

Then, there was the loaf of bread I made that was quickly going stale. I whirred some more of those old carrots in the food processor along with some eggs, spices, the good bits of an apple starting to go bad, raisins, maple syrup, a little bit of organic cane sugar (hopefully to make it more palatable to my picky eater) and some milk. I added that to half the loaf crumbled up in a bowl and I'm letting it sit overnight. In the morning I will bake it into a bread pudding (disguised as cake) and make a low-sugar glaze cutting the sugar with arrowroot powder.

Low Waste Challenge

2011-08-15T10:12:00.002-04:00

A while ago, I posted THIS video of a zero-waste family. The other day, I came across her blog HERE! While I am quite certain I could never get my family, or even myself to go that extreme, I do look Bea's idea that we should consciously live. So many times we just push the auto-pilot button and don't even realize all the mindless things we were doing. It's just easier to unwrap the processed food, pop it in the 'nuke and toss the packaging into the trash. We are also a society of visual people. Years of television have drawn us away from the reality that even if we don't see it, it still exists. Just because the landfill isn't within eyesight doesn't mean that all our waste just disappears into oblivion.

Bea put me to shame! I always thought I did pretty well with my garbage. I'd feel a little self-righteous pride as I drove down the road on garbage day and saw other people's cans bulging while mine wasn't even half-filled. But, after reading Bea's blog, I started realizing all the stuff I still mindlessly toss, and the the needless waste I consume.

I mean, even something as small as switching to bulk teas and using a steeper rather than buying individually double to triple packaged tea bags could reduce my waste.

I also started realizing my mindless spending. I got into couponing for a while. At my worst, I remember returning around $100.00 worth of stuff I'd never really use. I was embarrassed that I got caught up in savings that really weren't. Even now, I'm hoping I can find the receipt for some Christmas presents I bought for my children than I really don't want to give them. I'd rather buy my oldest a couple of handmade wooden trucks on etsy than give him the two plastic nerf pistols with target I got on clearance at Target. My children have proved to me that if it is plastic, they destroy it. Heavily packaged, Chinese made, cheaply made and really no imaginative value. It really makes me rethink a lot of things.

It really is embarrassing. And as I go through my house, I see so much waste. Toys broken after only a few months of use. Clothes bought on the cheap that don't really fit or aren't really worn. Food that just gets tossed out. Silly items bought on impulse, like movies, magazines, and nick nacks. Hobby items for projects never finished.

Big box stores are becoming more and more discouraging, too and quality plummets and everything is so disposable. My parents still have appliances from when they got married in the 70's. I haven't been married for 10 years yet, and I'm on 2nds and 3rds of appliances already!! It really is taking a conscious effort to live quality lives! It isn't just about the environment, but about our lives and the lives we provide our children with!

I Can Dream, Can't I?

2011-08-13T15:08:00.004-04:00

While my ultimate dream would be to have our own farm with our own farm house and a few cottages for my aging relatives to be nearby, sometimes I like to dream about what I'd like to do for our current little cottage.

1. Vermont Bun Baker

I'd put this in my basement and in the dining room I'd put in one of those large, Victorian grates in the floor for the heat to rise up through. I could use this for off the grid living, for fun, and for heating and cooking should the power go out in the wintertime.

2. Gutters and rain barrels

We need gutters on this house. It would greatly help in keeping water out of the basement. Plus, rain collection would be a great way to green up our water usage. Not only could I use the water for gardening (gravity fed irrigation system to my garden, perchance?) and animals, but I could run it through a:

3. Berkey Water Filter

This would allow me to use the water collected in the rain barrels for human consumption!

4. Farm Animals (and coops and a barn):

We don't have much land, so I can't have much. I could do some ducks up by the decorative pond, chickens by the dry well, and a couple of miniature goats down in the back point.

5. Greenhouse

Ok, so ultimately, off the side of the sun porch, I'd like to put in a solarium. Nothing too big, just big enough for some dwarf fruit trees like citrus and figs. But, I'd be happy with a greenhouse down by my garden so I can get my plants started early. Also, a couple of winterized hot boxes would be nice, too. Fresh lettuce in December is my goal!

6. A Loft Bedroom
This would be the first thing I'd have done. It is a necessary! I'd have our attic turned into a loft bedroom. It is such wasted space up there, space that we need for our growing family.

A new, bigger garage for hubby would be nice, too! Plus, there are lots of trees that need to come down and new ones planted. Poison ivy needs to be gone and in its place rugosa rose bushes for their fragrant flowers and healthful rose hips. Oh, and then the big luxury item: I'd like one of the windows in the master bedroom replaced with a door that leads to a secluded patio containing a jacuzzi! Pardon me as I close my eyes, sit back and smile. LOL!

He's Walking!

2011-08-10T14:30:00.002-04:00

As of today, my baby boy has officially given up crawling for walking! It's so strange seeing him upright, walking around the house. I am so used to seeing him crawl! Just yesterday, he was still crawling most of the time, only taking a few staggering steps. Today, he's walking all over the house!

Big Changes

2011-08-06T05:08:00.002-04:00

It looks as if in 25 days, we'll be temporarily moving 4 hours away to be closer to hubby and his job. It is so scary for this homebody girl! Not only that, I only have 25 days to go through and pack everything and make all the arrangements! Not an easy task with 3 little ones. I keep praying and praying that the Lord will allow my husband a transfer back home. I'm not looking forward to moving out of my comfort zone, close to family and friends and all I know to city in a part of the state known for its terrible winters where I don't know a soul. But, we simply cannot bear to be apart from Daddy.

I'm spoiled here in that it only takes 20 minutes one way to drive to a farm that sells raw milk. They're open all day every day, too, so it is very convenient. Where we are moving to, the nearest seller is 45 minutes away and is only open for a couple hours in the morning and a couple hours in the evening. That'll make it horribly inconvenient during the wintertime. It would be one thing if raw milk was just a preference, but it is a NEED for this family. My daughter and I cannot digest pasteurized milk. I do better with it if I have it in severe moderation, but if my daughter drinks it, she's messed up for months! The other alternative is to buy and make kefir. My daughter won't drink my homemade kefir, so I have to buy it for her. I could always cut her "pink milk" kefir with some homemade to make it stretch.

I so wish raw milk wasn't treated like some sort of "hippie juice." I am thankful my state allows for the selling of it on certified farms, but I wish they could at least let them sell it in markets, too. My other option is to start up or look for a co-op where we take turns traveling out every week to get everyone's "stash."

Neatness Helps

2011-08-04T07:03:00.002-04:00

Does this happen to you?

I have noticed that I do not sleep as well in a bed that has not been made.

My family does not seem to enjoy dinner as much or eat as well at a dining room table that this cluttered from the day.

I do not cook as well or as healthfully in a messy kitchen.

It is hard to relax in a living room that is cluttered.

Shopping is more stressful when my purse (rather diaper bag) has exploded on the inside.

Car rides are more uncomfortable when the car is unkempt.

Life can get overwhelming. Days can get busy. Time does run away from us, but it is helpful to set aside a time, (and train up my children) to clean up the best we can. I've gotta be honest with you. I find it more relaxing to be able to sit down for 5 minutes after an hour of cleaning than sit down for an hour after 5 minutes of making up excuses not to clean.

Here's to a clutter-free dining room table today!

Signs of Autumn

2011-08-03T05:54:00.002-04:00

Even though we're in the dog days of summer, August always lets us catch glimpses of the Autumn to come. This morning, I woke up to a chill in air and wild turkey near the brush line of the farm field. These are two sure signs that Autumn approaches. More signs? My son's pumpkin is turning orange on the vine. My thoughts turn to deep hues of purple, chocolate, royal blue, brick red. Woolens that were happy put away just a few months ago now seem inviting. They are missed, but only just slightly. Summer has its rewards and ease that I don't want to let go of. But, Autumn has its coziness and healthful cool crispness that I enjoy. I am thankful to live in a state that has all 4 seasons in a traditional Currier and Ives sense.

Not So Fast....

2011-07-29T13:56:00.002-04:00

Yeah, so I tried a modified fast. Smoothies for breakfast, brothy soup for lunch, a light afternoon snack and then a sensible dinner with no processed stuff. Ummm...yeah....I've been SO HUNGRY! I had to cave. The first day the smoothie wasn't enough, even with the addition of coconut oil. I had to have an egg. I didn't even make it to 10 o'clock. I started noshing on melon. Lunch time I made my brothy soup and heartied it up with squash from my garden. I ate it and was still having gnawing hunger, so I had a slice of whole grain bread (no artificials) with natural peanut butter and a glass of milk. Dinner was sufficient with salmon, potatoes from my garden and peas. I had a light dessert of yogurt and granola.....oh, and a small handful of m&ms. Doesn't sound much like a fast to me.

This morning, the smoothie was heartier and I allowed myself some peanut butter, so it lasted until lunch time. The soup was not enough, so I had a slice of whole grain bread with some cream cheese and honeycomb. Mid-afternoon snack was not so light with a bowl of Kashi cereal and milk.

If anything, I've discovered why I crash in the afternoon. I have been eating too heavy of a lunch. The lighter lunches are better. I also discovered that I don't feel full (whether physically or psychologically I don't know) unless I have a carb or a lot of fat.

Any thoughts? Advice?

A Blog Shout Out!

2011-07-19T22:08:00.002-04:00

Now, I'm not one to read or even visit the blogs of men. However, I came across this blog through a Christian women's site (a blog post of his was shared by his proud mother) and I had to read more. What a wise, young man of Christ! It is really uplifting to read what he has to write.

Mommy Make-Over Challenge

2011-07-15T06:31:00.002-04:00

I read THIS ARTICLE in Yahoo News the other day and found it amusing as well as interesting. I have many of my own opinions on the article, but the general idea of initiating self-improvement for the benefit of another struck me.

At first I thought that I would do a wife challenge, but hubby doesn't find me in need of much improvement....at least nothing drastic enough for a 30 day challenge. (Isn't that sweet?!) So, I figured I'd do an area of my life that needs improvement for the benefit of others. Motherhood. Yep, I admit it. I could really use some improvement there.

Like the author of the article, I'm going to pick 3 areas within motherhood where I could improve:

Pray

Play

Don't fray

The kiddos and I pray. We pray at each meal. We pray before bedtime. We have impromptu prayers when needed or requested. But I don't really pray FOR my children. I pray about them, but not FOR them.

Mommy doesn't do playtime too well. I still have it in my head that playtime is wasting time for me. I should be cleaning something, instead. I also get frustrated with my kiddos, say if we're playing a certain game, because they don't like following the rules. Someone ends up a sore loser. The other a sore winner, even if there aren't necessarily winners or losers! I give up too easily because it does fray me.

Don't fray. Here's the definitions of fray:

Archaic verb: To Frighten Away

Noun: a usually disorderly or protracted fight, struggle or dispute

Transitive verb: to wear (as an edge of a cloth) by or as if by rubbing; to separate the threads at the edge of; to strain or irritate

Intransitive verb: to wear out or into shreds; to show signs of wear (fraying nerves)

Noun: A raveled place or worn spot

Yep, this works. Sometimes my duty as a parent can seem so challenging, it shy away from it. That must stop. The disorderly fights, struggles and disputes with my children must stop, too. I'm easily irritated. My nerves fray easily, especially when my daughter's screaming AGAIN or my 5 year old won't stop talking and talking and talking and making comments about every little thing. And when he runs out of things to say, he makes loud, obnoxious, sudden truck or tractor noises that startle me and raise my blood pressure through the roof. Not to mention, they ALL have a knack for getting right under my feet, especially when I'm doing something dangerous like opening the oven door or carrying hot food to the dining room. They're children. They're young children. They're supposed to have an incredible lack of common sense! Unfortunately, instead of cultivating common sense with patience, I tend to lose all my senses! LOL!

So, this is my challenge. God got me up bright and early before 5am to start preparing. My kiddos should be climbing out of their little beds in 5 minutes, so I better get my Mommy Challenge Combat Boots on!

Tomorrow is the Deadline!

2011-07-14T19:23:00.003-04:00

July 15th is my set-aside starting date to sit down and organize a curriculum for my September Kindergartener. My 3 year old daughter is also interested in home schooling this year, so I'm going to put together a curriculum for her, too. I think she'll catch on quickly. She's pretty "school smart." Even though she's 2 years behind him, I think once we officially start schooling, she's only going to be 1 grade behind him.

I'm excited and intimidated all at once!

I WON!!!!!!!

2011-07-13T19:17:00.002-04:00

4Moms has had a 31 day giveaway of their Mamaroo Plush infant seats. With only 3 days left, I won a Mamaroo! There's still 2 days left to the giveaway, so head on over to www.4moms.com to try to win one for you!

Though my youngest is almost 13 months old, the Mamaroo will not lay in wait until I get preggers again. There are two new little ones in my family who will enjoy the Mamaroo. I'm so excited to have won this!

ANNOUNCING!!!!

2011-07-12T11:18:00.003-04:00

MY NEW ETSY SHOP!!

YOU CAN VISIT THE SHOP HERE!

YOU CAN FOLLOW THE BLOG HERE!

YOU CAN JOIN ME ON FACEBOOK HERE!

Perhaps....Not This Time.

2011-07-10T22:02:00.000-04:00

Nope, not pregnant.

Perhaps?

2011-07-08T08:00:00.003-04:00

I've had an upset stomach all week. Despite that, I wanted take-out pizza for breakfast.....could it be? Am I really?!

Cloistered at Home?!

2011-07-06T07:02:00.000-04:00

Have you ever gotten opposition to home schooling under the guise of, "it isn't healthy to cloister your children at home. It's too over-protecting."

As if putting your children in a strictly regimented institution under lock and key away from loving family members for 8 hours a day is any better.

Ummmm....I'd rather let my children roam, explore, go on impromptu field trips, meet a variety of people (instead of the same inmates....I mean students day after day), learn what interests them, learn at their own pace, see the weather at 10 am, go pee when they need to (rather than asking permission and having the teacher tell them no)......

Busy Business

2011-07-05T06:48:00.002-04:00

Oh, I've been busy! We had a really nice 4th of July weekend and hubby and I got a lot of talking done about different things. He has encouraged me to start selling the soaps I've begun to make! So, now I'm trying to come up with a name and a few other business tidbits. My mind has been racing as to how I could present the soaps at a farmer's market AND what types of soaps I could make!!

This morning, I came up with a name for the pillows I make: "Pillhouettes"

I want to make more now!

In added news, hubby and I are looking at a piece of property in our local Amish country!

Well, I WAS going to cut my hair

2011-06-26T19:21:00.002-04:00

My Hair

That is, until a friend of mine sent me THIS link!

Can you believe she has tailbone-length hair?!