4/10 Weekly Journal

• In my life this week... this has not been a particularly good week. Just a mixture of little things that went wrong that really added up to a yucky week. Our bank account was hacked, some of the kids were sick, crazy week at work and I've just been struggling with an on-going dilemma that I just don't know what to do about. I'm hurt, confused and don't know what to do. I know I should pray and seek wisdom and comfort from God, but I'm just struggling. Why do people have to be so hurtful?

• In our homeschool this week... Yay!! We finished up another huge part of math and language arts. We are inching closer to being done with 8th grade. Such a huge accomplishment, if I do say so myself! The warm weather was nice to get out and enjoy the park for the afternoon and do some studying outside.

• Places we're going and people we're seeing... We've been shopping for our Easter outfits this weekend and was bummed to find our favorite bakery, Paradise Bakery in Greenwood, was closed! Boo!! I guess now I will have to make a trip to Castleton for some of those yummy red velvet cookies. As far as the Easter outfits go, we have 2 of the 3 kids bought for.

• My favorite thing this week... Well, big surprise, but my favorite thing was going to my first yard sale of the season! I'm so ready for all those awesome deals I can hardly stand it!

• What's Rachel and Ryan doing in school... Ryan completed his solar system project. I was pretty impressed with how he learned the order, color and description of the planets. Young minds never cease to amaze me!

• Homeschool questions/thoughts/ideas... I'm really looking into a private high school for Morgan next year. Some of the homeschool websites have been very helpful in recommending some schools to look into. I had never thought about this before! I'm actually pretty excited and I am hopeful that this will be perfect for us. I'm still checking, investigating and praying at this point.

Opening day... let the bargains begin!

So... you can't even imagine how long I've waited to experience this day. Bask in this day. Write about this day. And, today was the day.

Opening day of my yard saling season!

I found my first yard sale, and it was a good one! I'm kind of superstitious that my first yard sale will be a glimpse of the yard sale season to come. I was pleased. I bought Ryan some Hollister, Aeropostale and American Eagle shorts and shirts (on average $1.00/each) among other things. Yay!

I know some don't understand my obsession with yard sales. (that's okay, because it leaves more good finds for me) Honestly, obsession may be putting it mildly. I have been a serious yard saler for as long as I can remember. It's something my mom passed down to me!! Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from April to September I will do some kind of yard saling. I have found so much for my family, friends and myself. And, I've made a few "investments" along the way and made some money reselling those items. Yard saling is a great way to find good deals on necessities... along with those really cool, unique finds!

The game plan.

Before I head out, I plan and strategize. I check websites, newspapers and keep my eyes open through the week for yard signs. I sometimes plug the addresses into my GPS to get the best route planned. Once there, I have my game plan. A fast walk-thru for the "hot" items and to see what all they have. Then I go back to look closer.

I classify my yard saling into two categories. Thursday/Friday sales and Saturday sales.

T/F sales are scattered (hence the GPS) and it takes a bit more time, but really the efforts are worth it. Not as much of a crowd out shopping and it's usually a better sale overall. The people who have the sales are serious about moving their junk. The downfall is that sometimes you just spent 15 minutes driving to a dud of a sale. But, this brings me to a good point. Never judge a yard sale by a drive-by. Some of the best yard sales I have ever been to didn't look like they deserved a second glance. You just never know. A lot of neighborhoods will have some sales open early on Friday as well.

Saturday sales are all about the neighborhood sales. I only do neighborhood sales on Saturday, no scattered ones. These sales are good for seeing and buying a lot in a small area. I'm talking walking distance. Neighborhood sales have a couple negatives though. They are extremely crowded - so you have to get there EARLY. And, you have your families that are having a yard sale just for the fun of it or because everyone else in the neighborhood is doing so. They literally went through their house the night before and gathered up a few things to sell. Trust me, I can tell.

There are a few things that work the same for both kinds of yard sales.

You can automatically tell if the person having the yard sale is a yard saler themselves. $5 for your faded and stained jeans? Uhm, I don't think so. And so they sit there with all their stuff and don't sell much at all. I would rather take a $1 for those jeans than have to cart them to Goodwill after the sale. But hey, that's me. (I have many theories about how to have a successful yard sale as well. For another time, perhaps.)

Never leave any stone unturned. Or, box unsearched is maybe what I should say. You can find some great things hidden in the bottom of that box of hats and purses. People just don't have time to get everything out and some stuff is missed. And, if you even think you might want it, grab it. Don't take the chance of someone else grabbing it!

Believe it or not, I'm not a huge "wheeler and dealer". If the price is fair, I pay it. But if it's not, I do ask. All they can do is say no. A lot of times I will have numerous items and will try to make deal that way. But I don't really like it when people offer 1/2 of what is marked... just because they think it's marked up for that reason.

I always make a mental note of homes that have sizes my children need. Their children are just a few years older than mine, obviously. I pay particular attention for those homes to have a yard sale again. In neighborhood sales, I would hit those homes first. I have even exchanged phone numbers with people who have what I am looking for so they can call me the next time they have items to sell. This has worked especially with scrapbook and stamping items.

I think the most important thing is just to go with an open mind. You may find nothing... or you may find the buy of a lifetime. Some days are good, some days are bad. And when you don't want to go on rainy days, well, just remember that sometimes the rain can yield a very motivated seller.

And if I bring the kids, I make sure I pack enough snacks and water to hold them over. Kids can always find things at yard sales, too. Video games, music and movies are some of my kid's favorites.

Through the years I have learned quite a bit from yard saling. I would say I have seen America at its best... and worst. I've made friendships with people through yard sales... and enjoy meeting and talking with new people.

God calls us to be frugal and not wasteful with our money. He has provided us with so much through yard sales, and I've enjoyed every minute of the hunt!

lessons learned... anywhere.... anytime.

So, I won't get into any of the details, but my 14 year old daughter taught me a pretty good "life" lesson tonight. I will admit, she was totally right and I was totally wrong. And I can put my big girl panties on and deal with it and accept it.

I'm not sure what I should be thankful for though... the fact that I learned a life lesson or that my daughter taught me a lesson? I'm guessing both. :)

Thank you, Lord, for my wonderful children!

Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from Him. - Psalm 127:3

Weekly Journal

In my life this week...

It's so hard to believe how fast these weeks go by sometime! Last week was especially a fast one. The kids were on spring break and we tried to do some "fun" things with them since we didn't travel anywhere. I still worked a little in the morning and would get home about the time everyone was waking up, so it worked out. The weather didn't work out for much this break though. We were going to go to a park somewhere and have a picnic... but had to cancel because it SNOWED!!! Ugh... all you can do is laugh! We did go to the zoo and had a great time. We ended up buying a family membership and I'm looking forward to a great summer going whenever we want! My personal favorite thing we did was go shopping. The kids enjoy shopping as well - as long as they have money! And well, me too!

In our homeschool this week...

I know some don't follow the traditional "school" calendar, but since I still have 2 in public school, I follow it. It was nice to take a break and not have to worry about our schedule and lessons. I did count the zoo day as a school activity though! Got to sneak them in whenever you can!

Places we're going and people we're seeing...

Friday night we had our first "3 family fellowship" dinner with 2 other families from church. The idea is to fellowship together with other families that you maybe don't know too well, etc. Each family takes a turn hosting the other families at their home. We loved the evening and everything about it! The company, conversation and food was great. And the kids had a great time too! We are already looking forward to next month's fellowship!

My favorite thing this week...

My favorite thing this week was that we didn't have to be anywhere... at any specific time! We just did whatever... whenever!! But I have to admit I was glad to be back on a routine.

Homeschool questions/thoughts/ideas...

I had planned to go to the homeschool convention, but decided not to due to the controversy surrounding their speakers, etc. I do plan to go to the convention that is here in June. I have already started looking at things for high school. It's overwhelming! It will probably take from now until late summer to really look through and decide what we want to do anyway. I am talking with quite a few moms through the different support communities on the web. I appreciate this so much since I have not really found any support groups in our area.

A photo, link, video or quote to share...

I am starting a new book club this week with some moms from "The Homeschool Village". The book we are reading is "The Power of a Positive Mom". From what I have read so far, it's great! Totally recommend it!

Neon Moustaches... and other birthday tales.

Morgan's birthday was this past weekend and we celebrated with a party on Saturday night. (It went well, even with what I talked about in the previous post.) The music and laughter was rather loud... but I wouldn't have had it another way. Those kids can put away some food, candy and cake as well!! The last kid finally went home Sunday afternoon. And I have a year to recover until the next birthday! Morgan's theme was "neon". The kids enjoyed all the glowsticks, glow necklaces and bracelets. They also dressed in neon. Along with anything neon everyone had to wear moustaches. Morgan's signature is a "mustashh". The only way I can explain the moustaches is that the kids love anything out of the ordinary. Halfway through the party the kids spilled out into the street to have a "Hot Dance Party". Thank goodness it was cold or I probably would have never got them back in!

This is a great group of kids. I love them all like my own! They are all so fun-loving, energetic and happy. The way they can take just about anything and make a good time or joke out of it is a breath of fresh air. (notice the hair-do's for example!)

My best friends growing up was my youth group and it's the same for Morgan. Yes, we found mischief but I think you can make a connection to your youth group not like your other friends. Plus, I started dating Chris through my youth group! (Not to rush things with Morgan!!)

Morgan and her friends celebrating as she prepares to make wish!

She had a special cake made by her best friend, Delaney. It was yummy! We also had moustache cupcakes. What party isn't complete without that?

l to r: Delaney, Grant, Jon, Ronnie, Bethany, Morgan, Hannah, Olivia, Jasmine, Tito and Allie

Happy Birthday, Morgan!!

Weekly Journal

I was reading a fellow homeschool mom's blog (http://www.thehomeschoolchick.com/) who once a week answers some writing prompts in her "journal". What a neat way to keep up with what is going on and keep record of things we've been doing. I've adapted just a bit to fit our family, but the idea is still to answer these questions once a week.

• In my life this week...

This week has been about planning for Morgan's birthday! She had some things she wanted to do and we had her party as well. Seems like birthdays turn into a week-long affair here!

Rachel and Ryan were out of school on Friday and so we officially started Spring Break! YAY!! We're not really doing anything. But that sounds okay to me!

I turned in all of the final girl scout cookie sales info for our troop. This has been over a month long process. I'm proud of the girls, but I'm glad cookie sales are OVER!

• In our homeschool this week...

With the nice weather this week we had one school day at the park. It was nice! It does us good to have a change of scenery every once in a while. We are working on LifePac 8... 2 more to go and we are done!

• Rachel and Ryan are learning/doing this week...

Ryan brought home a science project - the solar system! I plan on having Morgan help him and I can have 2 kids learn with one project. Sounds good to me! Rachel is still doing her drawing and origami. We are considering putting her in professional art classes. We believe her talent needs to be developed. She drew plans for a clubhouse she wants to build this summer for her and her friend. She drew it 3D, had the area, perimeter and all measurements needed. Sometimes that child's brain boggles my mind.

• Places we're going and people we're seeing...

I would like to visit the zoo or a museum or two over spring break. We will see. I still have to work some, but I can go in really early and be done by when the kids get up.

• My favorite thing this week...

Was getting to wear my flip-flops for a few days!! And I guess that could lead to my least favorite part... the cold weather that came back. Warm teasers are so cruel!

• What's working/not working for us this week...

We still are struggling with finding the time to get everything done with school. The last few weeks either someone has been sick, we've had doctor/dentist appts. or a whole laundry list of things. There has to be an easier way! I'm not sure what I need to do to help this.

• Homeschool questions/thoughts/ideas...

The homeschool convention in Cincinnati is next week, but I'm not sure if I am going or not. They have had a huge blow-up about speakers, differences of opinion, etc. and I'm just not sure I want to bother traveling that far to participate. I may just wait until the June conference here in Indy. I'm so up in there air as to what to do for next year anyway.

• What else is on my mind this week...

Morgan is 14! What?!?! How did that happen? I don't know if I will ever survive this teenage thing. I keep telling myself that I'm not the first and I won't be the last... but that still doesn't help much! Is it strange that mothering a teenager is the one thing that has drawn me closer to God than anything in my life before?

• A photo/link/video/quote to share...

In our marriage class at church this past week we talked about money. This verse came up and it is one of my favorites!!

What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? -- Mark 8:36.

And I love to hear Toby Mac sing about it as well... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coHKdhAZ9hU

Let's get this party started!

Okay, so I'll admit. I love to plan parties. Maybe a little too much. Now is this such a bad thing? I don't think so. Morgan would say otherwise.

A couple months ago she asked if she could have a party for her birthday. I said yes, partly because I wanted to plan it. Pitiful, I know. So here we are less than 24 hours away and I'm in the full "adrenaline" of it all. Morgan keeps pulling me back down and keeping things in check.

I envisioned huge platters of food, elaborate decorations, an unforgettable "theme" and the cutest party favors ever. I saw a whole evening of activities coming together for our theme, whatever that was to be.

Morgan envisioned all her friends coming over, hanging out, playing a few games and eating a ton of pizza and Mountain Dew.

This is where it gets tricky. Compromise.

Yes, we had to compromise. Mostly I had to back down and not insist on things feeding from my party-planning obsession. Morgan and I are alike in a lot of ways, but not when it comes to things like this. Morgan is a "minimalist" and I am a "go overboard and then some" type of person. Now that she is a teenager and tells me just what she wants and how she wants it, I can't live out my wildest dreams through her. Bummer.

It is about her, not me.

Its her party, not mine.

What I like may not be the same as a teens taste.

I know, I know.

I guess this birthday party stuff is just an example of things to come. How dare she grow up and have her own opinion! Just kidding. She has grown into a fine young lady who stands up for her thoughts and values. I guess that is the ultimate goal. Even if it is hard to accept sometimes. :)

Finding the humor...

Ryan has had his fair share of sickness over the last few months. Poor guy, it just doesn't seem fair!! He was first diagnosed with mono followed by a few other things. Today it was topped off with another "weird" diagnosis.

Salivary gland infection. Sigh.

So basically he had a cold, fever, etc. which turned into an infection since his body is still compromised from the mono. And where did the infection settle? Yes, his salivary gland. I guess because it is close to his tonsils and other glands that were affected by the mono. He looks like he has a mouthful of food stored in his cheek and gum.

Okay, so where was the humor today? Well, Ryan is a funny guy. And what makes him funny is that he doesn't even know he is funny. As we were sitting in the exam room waiting for the doctor I pulled out my phone to take a picture of him. I was thinking I could compare the swelling and see if it was getting better or worse. He looked a me with a very strange look and bluntly told me that I better not put it on Facebook. HAHA!!! My son knows me too well. :) He didn't tell me to not put it on my blog though...

So later we were listening to our answering machine messages when a strange voice came on and said it was Nancy, calling for Barbara and John. She wondered if everyone was alright and wondered if he (I'm assuming John) was feeling better. She was worried about him and wanted to call and tell him to get better soon. We all started laughing... it was obviously a wrong number. Ryan didn't laugh and wanted to know who it was, very matter of fact. I told him it was a wrong number. He said, "No it isn't! She called to see how I was and to tell me to get better!" He was sure she had called just for him. hahahahaaha.... silly kid! Thanks, Nancy, for calling to check on Ryan!

Oh well... after such a long, crazy, tiring day it's good to find the humor!!

Patience... such an exhausting word!

"Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." -- James 1:3-4

My children know I am not a very patient person, so they probably find it funny when I tell them that some things just can't be fixed that fast. I don't think they believe me when I tell them that patience is a virtue! And why would they? I struggle to find the patience to sit in a drive-thru line. I definitely could use some help here when it comes to "do as I say, not as I do".

Endurance is not taught by any other lesson than the process itself. I must keep going even when the days are long and hard. So, I'm trying to teach myself as well and lead by example.

I am placing my hand in His!

Bracing for the worst... praying for the best.

In our studies today, Morgan and I researched and talked about the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear threat that is going on in Japan.

Just exactly how an earthquake happens and then a tsunami forms is an amazing thing, to say the least. I really didn't know too much about how a nuclear power plant worked, so it was a great science lesson for us both. Sometimes things such as these are hard to wrap my little brain around.

However, you can talk all about the "science" of it you want, but those poor people are living a nightmare. To me, that is the real lesson. Living minute to minute not knowing what is going to happen next. Sure does make me thankful... and hopefully teaches me to think outside "my little world".

Random thoughts on a Saturday morning...

Praying for those involved in the Japan earthquake/tsunami.

It's hard to look at all of the pictures coming out of Japan. I can't even begin to wrap my mind around the devastation that those poor people have just witnessed and lived through. Their world literally shaking to its core for minutes! The tsunami that soon followed just wiping through land and all that was on it just like it was nothing.

I can't help but think about how man can get so confident in their own abilities. And then God's power of Mother Nature comes through and shows everyone who is really boss. We forget who really is in control and can make or break anything at any time.

Are you kidding me?

And I've also been thinking about the NFL contract talks. How ridiculous is it that they can't decide what to do with 9 billion dollars?! If that was my only worry!! Meanwhile, in our state we are arguing about organized labor and it destroying the middle class man. I don't necessarily agree or disagree with organized labor, but I do believe in what is going to help the middle class.

How wrong is our society when 2 arguments such as these... the same but so different... are going on?

Okay, so that was my random thoughts for this morning. :) Now onto enjoying my Saturday with the family!! Enjoy your Saturday!

Okay, I'll admit...

I slacked on my goal of keeping this blog.

but... but.. well, in my defense, this has been a crazy past month or so!! Here... I'll list you just a few things that have had me busy. Trust me!! I've been so busy sometimes I didn't know if I was coming or going.

1. Work! Valentine's Day is one of the hardest holidays that we have in our business. It's over and thank goodness!

2. Girl Scouts! A fellow mom and I have taken on the huge job of being "cookie mom". The troop has worked at least 2 cookie booths every weekend over the last month. Followed by us filling orders, keeping the money straight, making bank deposits, picking up more cookies, etc. etc. I am SO looking forward to March 22!!! However, I just keep thinking about our goal... a trip to Washington, DC in June. Our troop has sold over 1800 boxes of cookies!!!

3. Kids! School for the twins, homeschool for Morgan and everything in between. Homework, lesson planning and all that good stuff. Doctor and Dentist appointments seem to rule my life sometimes.

4. Church! Now, that is a good thing. We have made a conscious effort to become more involved in church. We are attending a great marriage bible study on Wednesday nights. Morgan is very involved in teens. She wants to go early, stay late and not ever miss anything! She and her friend sang in a "talent" competition through our denomination and made it to the next level! Go Morgan and Delaney! And in the midst of it all, her youth pastor left to work at another church. It took an emotional toll on all of us. Sometimes those things affect us more than we realize.

5. Weather! This has been one harsh winter. Now, being from Indiana I am used to the crazy weather. I don't know... this has been one doozey of a winter though. Maybe I'm getting older and things like that bother me more now. Ugh!! The constant stress/anxiety of worrying about snow, ice and everything in between is more than enough!

6. Well... I can't really think of anything else... but I'm sure there are lots more things... I'm sure of it!! I've probably been so busy that I just forgot about it!! ;)

Okay, so in making this list I realized I've done the exact thing I've been trying not to do! Get so caught up in the everyday things that I lose sight of the really important things. I need to keep doing this blog to keep myself in check. Keep my eyes on the goal... me and my family's relationship with God and our relationship with each other.

In the middle of all this craziness, I have read some good books and devotionals. I've listened to some great music that has inspired me. Our pastor has challenged us in our prayer life. The marriage class has given me some things to work on with Chris. And God has spoke to me through His word.

So, in all seriousness things do seem to be calming down a bit. I'm determined to stay ahead of the game and not fall victim to the hustle and bustle of life. I don't want to miss the important stuff!!

Happy Birthday, Rachel and Ryan!!

My goodness... that's a lot of candles on their cake!

So somewhere in the midst of this crazy winter, we get to celebrate the birthday of some pretty special kids. Rachel and Ryan turned 11 on Sunday, February 13. They will forever be my Valentines! (eventhough it's a day early!)


11!!! I can't believe it. For their birthday this year they couldn't decide if they wanted money, a party or what. Ryan decided on money, while Rachel decided that she wanted a gift.

Ryan bought some new video games with his birthday money. Rachel, on the other hand, is a child after my own heart. She wanted a Nook. So, we made the deal that I would chip in on it and we could both share it. We have really enjoyed it!! Money well spent, we both agree.



Rachel wanted to go out to eat and see a movie with some friends. We saw "Gnomeo and Juliet" and ate at Culver's. Both were her choice. I had a good time watching her and her friends. The movie? Well, not so much.

Ryan had a sleepover with his best friend and played video games all night long. He wanted fried green beans to eat. Hahaha... that silly boy.

Rachel and Ryan have been blessings to our lives, to say the least. They have tought us so many things and didn't even realize it. They are so sweet and loving!! Ryan told me on his birthday that he was glad I got pregnant and had him. A little strange choice of words maybe... but so sweet!!

Happy Birthday to my little miracles!!

I think I can... I think I can!!

Okay, so my goal for this weekend is to update my blog. I really want to keep doing this and not just let it fall by the wayside. Until then... enjoy my current favorite song!

http://www.vevo.com/watch/david-crowder-band/sms-shine/US82Y1000066

Snowpocalypse 2011

Pretty to look at it, isn't it??

Yeah, but not so much to be in.

Here we go...

So it's pretty much a waiting game now. Not if but when will the power go out. I've gathered up all my flashlights and candles. We bought our lunchmeat, bread and enough Coke to last us awhile. Carbonated beverages trump milk in my book.

And so we wait.

The sound of it hitting the windows is getting old already - 2 hours into it.

Chris is at work. He wouldn't listen to me and stay home. He won't be home until 6 am. Hopefully sooner. I would be a lot more calm if he was here with us. Not gonna lie.

And this week, of all weeks, I'm dog-sitting for our neighbor. They're on a cruise. I hope they get sea-sick. Not really, just kiddng. Okay, maybe a little. And all I have is their garage door opener. So, what happens if the garage door is frozen... or the elecricity goes out... sigh.

The kids, I think, are a bit excited about the "idea" of it at this point. Let's see how they feel after a day of no power. I remember going through an ice-storm when I was about 12 and being without power for about a week. It was not fun. I think I re-read the whole Little House series.

So, I'm hoping that I'm just being overly cautious about all this. And tomorrow, or whenever, I can post again and laugh about how nervous I was. I'm crossing my fingers....

Where were you??

When I logged onto my internet home page today, the main headline was about the Challenger crash that happened on January 28, 1986. It always takes me back to where I was that day.

I was sick, and was at home for the day from school. I was watching some silly game show(back when there were only 6 channels to chose from) when Dan Rather cut in to tell us the awful news. Even at that young age I knew it was something horrible and beyond my young mind's comprehension. We had been studying about this flight in school. This was the first time NASA had trained a teacher, Christa McAuliffe, to be an astronaut. I went to tell my mom and together we sat on the couch and watched the tragedy. You just don't forget days like that.

I'm sure everyone has days that stick out in your mind. The JFK assassination, 9/11 or countless others. Where you were when you received that phone call, found out some important news, saw someone for the first or last time. Maybe you can even remember what the weather was like or what you were wearing. I can even remember smells. Yes, a little strange I would admit. The mind is a funny thing. And associations of the mind are a strong thing.

It was a June afternoon, I was fixing a salad for dinner and Chris was outside with the kids. I received a call from my brother that something was really wrong with my dad and I should come down to the hospital right away. He didn't know anything and couldn't give me any details. I rushed out and was sitting at the intersection of Holt Road and Washington Street when a feeling came over me that there was no reason to rush anymore... he was already gone. And I would soon find out it was true. I think about that every time I go through that intersection.

Ryan was always my baby who woke up early. So it was just us on the couch early on the morning of September 11, 2001. We were watching the news and saw it all happen. I've never been so confused and scared. I didn't know what to do but hold my baby boy and wonder what this world had come to. I will never forget sharing that moment with him.

And still to this day I have a strong aversion to Elizabeth Taylor's White Diamonds perfume. I was already experiencing morning sickness and a weak stomach with my second pregnancy. So it didn't help that the ultra-sound tech was wearing an enormous amount of that particular perfume when she did my ultra-sound to confirm my due-date. I was only about 6 weeks along. But an added bonus was when she told me I was having twins! I was by myself (Chris was working) and I started crying. What?!?! There was no way!!! What I see now was good news... was a little hard to handle that first few minutes. They even offered to call someone for me. (funny to look back on it...) And so I never smell White Diamonds perfume without thinking of that ultra-sound tech and her life-changing news.

Strangely, I can even remember how I was sitting in church when an earthquake hit here back in the 80's. We all ran out of the church because we thought it was an airplane crash. (The church was just a mile or so from the airport.) Now that was some rockin' pews.

Or when the clock reads 6:37, 1:58 or 2:53 and I always think of how those are the times my kids were born!

Does anyone else remember or take note of details like this?? I hope so. Those are part of our life stories.

But, I don't know... maybe I'm just the odd-ball who remembers what song was on the radio during the first car accident I was ever in. I never did like Reba McEntire anyway.... :)

What would you do?

Morgan and I went to the Titanic exhibit at the Indiana State Museum yesterday. We enjoyed it very much. It was the second time I have been, the first for Morgan. We met a homeschooling family for lunch and the field trip. The company was great and the exhibit was very interesting.

When you start the tour they give you a boarding pass of a real passenger of the Titanic. It tells some details about why they were traveling, who they were traveling with and what class they were. When I went before I had quite a juicy story. I was a teenage girl running away with her boss from the candy store she worked in. Scandalous!!! He was a married father, so they were traveling under fake names. Shocking! She was also pregnant at the time and didn't know it. Outrageous! You also find at the end whether you survived or not. My passenger had survived, but her male companion did not.

So, this time around I received a lady that I could much more relate to. She was 35 year-old mother traveling with her 13 and 16-year old sons. Her back story was maybe controversial, but I can totally see the place that she was in. Her husband was a champion boxer and apparently she had left him and returned to her native England. However, her boys were home sick for their home in Rhode Island. So they were returning as 3rd class passengers.

At the end of the exhibit I found out that she had survived... but her boys had not. That is what I can't quite get out of my mind. I just don't understand it. Now, I'm not saying I know anything of the circumstances, but how could she do that? How could she get on a life boat and leave her boys? They were not men by any means! We would have all went... or we would have all stayed. That is just beyond my comprehension!!

Now, one can imagine that maybe she really thought they would be okay. Or maybe they were all together, but somehow she survived and they didn't. Maybe they were considered men at that age back then, I don't know. But I would seriously guess that she went on a life boat and the boys didn't. I know you shouldn't say what you would do until you are put in that situation, but I think I know myself enough that it would never even be a question to me. I'm sure they didn't force her on the lifeboat.

So what would you do? I know what I would do. No question in my mind. I would never leave my kids.

And the funny thing is, almost a hundred years later nothing really has changed. Mothers still choose themselves over their kids. And for my previous passenger, the teenage girl, that still happens today as well. I guess human nature is human nature whether it is 1914 or 2011.

I can see clearly now.

Warning: This post is not meant to be sad, depressing, etc. In fact it's quite the opposite...

Sometimes I feel like I'm going through life with my eyes closed. I have no idea what is going on around me... I'm just coasting through on cruise control. I just try to survive the day... forget finding the deeper meaning or reasoning to it. And now, I've woken up to find I'm 33 years old, married and have 3 kids growing up way too fast. The last few months I have really tried to stop and look at the things in my life. Physical, emotional and everything in between. Here are my observations:

1. My kids are growing up way too fast. I feel like my teaching time with them is becoming limited as they are now out in the real world more and more... and putting the lessons I've taught them to use. It's a very surreal experience to see your teaching being put to use.

2. I had lost my thirst for knowledge. I was so busy with life, I didn't even have the attention span to read a magazine article, much less a book. I am deliberately taking the time to learn new things. Maybe I can gain back some of those brain cells I've lost over the years.

3. My relationship with Jesus should be more of a relationship... not just me needing/wanting/expecting things. I was pretty selfish. And I'm working on it. Lord, help me.

4. Family relationships. I need them and they need me more than I knew. My niece and I are so much alike its scary. I think we have both found solace in the fact that we are not alone in our quirks. And maybe we can help each other with those quirks. Or laugh together about them, if nothing else.

5. You just never know how something you do will come back to you. Maybe I should just word that as, "God's timing is better than our own." Back in the fall Morgan and I tried to join up with some homeschooling groups to no avail. They were closed, cliquish or for younger kids. I contacted a few people with not really much response. We basically gave up. Then, out of the blue, we received a call from one of the families we had contacted before. They wanted to meet up for a field trip. We met, they are a beautiful family and I am thankful.

6. Relationships. Oh, relationships. I'm talking everyone from my neighbor to my husband. I'm trying very hard to be more deliberate. Not just be lazy and take the easy way out. I want to go out of my way to do something for them. You don't realize how much they mean to you until they're gone.

7. My time. I began to notice how much time I was spending reacting instead of being proactive. No more putting off what you can do tomorrow. I'm trying to anticipate, plan and execute. I'm trying not to worry as much either. Doesn't do any good anyway.

8. I ain't no spring chicken anymore. My bones hurt. My joints hurt. I'm seeing wrinkles and too much gray hair. I don't WANT to lose weight for vanity reasons, I NEED to lose weight for health reasons. In my mind, I still feel like I'm 20 years old. But my body don't. I need to not abuse this body and take it for granted.

9. My purpose. Yes, I do have a purpose. Be deliberate. Be thankful. Explore. Examine. Make the most of your life. All those feel good things. Maybe there is something to all of it....

I'm not saying that these are huge revelations, just observations of areas that I need to improve. And they are specific to me, not observations of others.

God, thank you for opening my eyes!

A closer relationship with Him has showed me that there is more to life than just the day-to-day. I don't want to be just a by-stander in my life. I sometimes feel like I'm reading a great book and I have to read between the lines - and that is where the real story is told.

My random thought of the day.

My random thought of the day is this:

I really don't know what I would do without K-LOVE. I never thought I would say that... but a year into listening to mostly christian music, I find myself not living without it. It really makes my day go smoother and reminds me of God's goodness. It reminds me that I'm not alone.

Ode to an old, faithful friend...

Last week I spent a lot of time cleaning out my scrapbooking stuff in my craft room. Sad time. I realized that I had not even touched the stuff in probably a year... so it was time to make a decision and just get rid of it all. It was hard. I cried.

Yes, I cried. The money invested? Maybe. The time spent? Perhaps. But it was something more than that...

It was a huge part of my life for about 10 years. And sadly, I feel like I'm turning my back on an old, faithful friend. But I've had to realize that friend was weighing me down. I would see the stuff collecting dust and I felt guilty. I just don't have the time or energy to devote to it. My creative juices are being spent elsewhere. My time is spent elsewhere. So, what choice did I have?

At one time I knew every manufacturer, paper pattern and could name the correct color of any cardstock. I searched high and low for that unique paper and embellishment. We even planned trips around scrapbooking events or stores that I could visit. I enjoyed stamping, altered art projects and just about any paper craft. Scrapbooking introduced me to a lot of new friends. The crops were the best!! But I also liked to work on a project at home after the kids went to bed. It even opened the door for me to visit California and perhaps the greatest place ever, The Craft and Hobbyist Association's annual convention. Ahh... heaven on earth.

I began scrapbooking shortly after Morgan was born. Back then patterned paper and decorative-edged scissors were your only supplies. As I was scrapbooking each picture, I could relive each memory. I used to scrapbook every picture I ever took, then scaled it back to just my favorites and finally just scrapping ones that really "spoke" to me. I didn't even scrapbook birthdays or holidays in the end, just pictures that showed everyday life or how the kids were growing up. I loved to quote a favorite poem or scripture. And the supplies and embellishments made such a progression. Some of my favorite things to use was pages from old books, vintage lace and buttons.

The kids growing up was the biggest problem. (Yeah, maybe they're the real problem...) The older they became, the more I had to fight them to even take their picture. And if I got the picture, it was some cheesy, fake smile or a grimace. That scaled back my picture options. Besides, I just don't get as many photo opportunities with the kids now. They're not losing teeth anymore, no more first haircuts, and the pumpkin patch just doesn't quite excite them like it did at one time.

I think that the end of my scrapbooking represents so much more. Its the end of an era. My kids are growing up!! We are entering a new phase of our life. I think that is what bothered me the most. Not just getting rid of some paper and embellishments (okay a lot of paper and embellishments), but knowing that some of those special moments will never happen again.

So now we enjoy getting the scrapbooks out and looking through them. They are not the same as a just an ol' photo album. I'm glad I took the time to record thoughts, quotes and the special moments that we maybe would have forgot. I enjoy looking at them myself. For that I am thankful.

And, to be honest, I didn't get rid of ALL of it... I kept a little bit. (probably about as much as the average scrapper has!) Who knows when the mood to create might strike again!! I will always do some kind of craft. Plus, I have a little crafter in the house... Miss Rachel loves to be crafty just like me!

So enjoy some of my favorites...

A few of my favorites...

My girls... and I loved this patterned paper.

A favorite pic of Rachel. Loved these rub-ons from Daisy-D's.


Different things you can use...ledger paper. Loved the flowers and velvet ribbon.


One of my favorites... loved the paper, the title and the pic of the kids.

Morgan and George, the cat. Used beaded wire and gem flowers.

All dressed up from a musical at church. I loved to use simple, one-word titles that really got the message across.

My style of scrapbooking... a letter to the kids from me.

Ryan.. the sky is the limit!

Probably my favorite scrapbooking page I ever did. Loved Heidi Swapp designs.

Not too many pages like this, I usually didn't use this kind of bright colors.

This page has so many layers... it must weigh a pound!

Yeah, it's different. We know.

It's Saturday!!! And all is quiet here at our house... no one is up yet and I'm enjoying it.

I've talked a little about Morgan and our homeschooling choice for her. But, I do have 2 more youngins' that I haven't really talked about. The twins...

Yes, the twins. What can I say? They turned our life upside down from day one... and still do today. They are good kids. But double everything? It can get a little expensive, tough and stressful. Parenting twins is an experience all its own. Do I buy 2 birthday cakes or one? How do I make them feel like an individual? Besides all the double diaper duty, double feedings, etc. of years past.

When they were babies it was hard. And, I would say it is easier now, but still presents its own complications. Rachel is a tomboy and loves to play with Ryan and the guys. Rachel and Ryan both used to spend the night with Ryan's best friend that lives down the street. I soon realized they had reached the age that is was no longer appropriate for Rachel to spend the night with them anymore... so imagine trying to explain to her why her brother could but she couldn't. Or why when Rachel has a girl friend come over... that girl friend may not want Ryan in the middle of what they are doing. Thank goodness Rachel's best friend has a very close brother and she understands when Ryan wants to play with them too. Little things like this I never anticipated!!

Rachel and Ryan have grown into their own separate persons. They are the best of friends (most days) and really do complement each other. Rachel and Ryan are very shy by themselves but not when they are together. Rachel is the bossy one. Ryan is the sensitive one. Rachel has an incredible sense of humor that she likes to use on gullible Ryan. I actually see a lot of myself and Chris between Rachel and Ryan. The bond between twins is amazing!

I want to accept and nurture each one of my children as the individuals they are. And with that, I decided that I would not homeschool Rachel and Ryan. At least not this year. I was unsure of myself mostly. I didn't even know if I could do it for one child, much less 3. They enjoy school, seem to be thriving and they just didn't want to. But the situation that we find ourselves in, homeschooling one child and not the other two, has been kind of a sticky one. I don't feel like the homeschooling community has accepted us because we still have kids in public school. And public school people don't understand why we have decided to homeschool Morgan. I don't know... my only option is not to worry about what everyone thinks. They are my kids and I'm the one who has to raise them. Yeah, it's different. We know!!

I'm still up in the air about next year. Ryan wants to homeschool, Rachel doesn't. I'm not sure how I would do it and still work the few hours a day that I do. But, where there is a will there is a way. I'm buying curriculum for them as I come across it in anticipation that I will. I'm thinking that being twins might actually come in handy this once. I would only have to one curriculum!

I will continue to pray about it and see where God leads us. I truly believe in homeschool and how it has benefited Morgan. Without the stress and rigidness of public school, I have seen her blossom into the young lady she was meant to be. Those around her would testify to that.

Oh, such is life, I guess. But I do know one thing... my kids are pretty awesome, if I do say so myself.

Our journey to homeschooling Part 2...

So yesterday I talked about what led us to homeschooling. The journey didn't stop there.

I sat down to plan this all out. Once again, the planning thing is what always gets me into trouble. I had ordered the LifePac curriculum from Alpha Omega Publications. What I liked about it is everything you need is right there in the workbooks. There are 10 workbooks for each subject that you work through at your own pace and then test over at the end of each workbook. It is a student-led, Christian curriculum. It gave a few extra activities you could do for each subject and workbook... so I planned those, extra spelling and vocab activities, extra worksheets on various things, current events and book reports. I wanted her to not miss one thing! I decided my grading scale, class syllabus and goals for the year. I had the whole year planned out... in pencil... but still planned out. I was ready.

Well, the first day came. I had a "Welcome to Meyer Academy" session with Morgan. I went over all the plans I had made.

She looked at me with a blank stare.

And asked how on earth we would ever do all this work. If she had school 24 hours a day she didn't think she could do all this. Okay, so I'll chill a bit and not have you do the extra activities. And maybe not 5 book reports but 3. Ummm... yeah, that should work, I thought.

And then we really dug into the work. And after a few weeks we found that the LifePacs, as they were intended, were not the best thing for us. I never considered the way that Morgan learns best. And a lot of the material she already knew... so there was no reason to do 50 math problems for something like that. But I told her we had to do them... because that was our curriculum!!

She looked at me with a blank stare.

And finally I realized that I was her teacher, I was the principal and I was the superintendent of our school. What does that mean?? It means that I have the freedom to decide what is best for her to learn, how she learns it and how she is tested over it. So being the over-achiever, organized person that I am... I had to fly by the seat of my pants and figure out what was best for her. Even if it made me uncomfortable. And what happened?? It clicked. We found the freedom to explore different books, websites, tv shows and the world around us. What a concept!! Individualizing a child's learning experience to fit them!

So here we are half way into the school year and we are making it. We are still using the Lifepacs for every subject but History. For those subjects we use the LifePac as a guide, but we don't follow it to a "T" by any means. And we are making History a bit more interactive rather than just reading out of a book. She has sailed through some of the subjects and is already working on some Freshman work. Morgan is a auditory learner and a lot of what we do now is not on paper... until she takes a test over it. And a grading scale??? That was the most ridiculous. Morgan has straight A's... but because we go over it until she gets an A!!! Again... what a concept!

2010 was a great, big 'ol learning experience for all of us. Especially me. Patience, prayer and the faith that you can do it. I found the courage to do what my kid desperately needed. I still totally support public school. There are great teachers out there who gave me a smart pupil to start with. But it is not the only option. I want to share that with other parents. You have options!! You can do it!! There are tons of resources out there!! And other parents who were once in your shoes.

Is it hard? Yes. But is it worth it?? Oh, yes, it most certainly is.

Happy learning...

Why homeschooling has worked for us.

Well, the time has come to get back into the routine of things again. School is back in session in the Meyer house after a few weeks off for the holidays. I actually never thought I would say that. I never thought I would be homeschooling any of my kids. Never say never!

You just don't know what life will throw at you. I'm a list-maker and a planner. And I had it all planned. (I should have learned my lesson when I only "planned" 2 children.) But thankfully, God really does know what is best for us... and the journey that led us to homeschooling is one of the main reasons I wanted to do this blog. I wanted to share our fears and reservations and how they eventually turned into triumphs, empowerment and happiness. But they only changed when we saw God's plan and let Him do His work.

Earlier this year Morgan was going through a very tough time. She had some medical issues going on... and on top of that school was just basically stressing her out. It had been a progression of things getting worse over the last couple years leading up to the point that she was not able to go at all. People underestimate the power of stress! She was in advanced classes, Avon has a very rigorous band program even in the 7th grade, and she is a perfectionist. With the combination of all that stress and missing almost 3 weeks of school due to H1N1... she had reached her limit. Her school was very accomodating and let her do her work at home the last semester of last year, but basically told us that it could not be a permanent thing. Understandable. Our plan was to take the summer off and just deal with it later. I knew what we had to do in the back of my mind, but I didn't want to think about it.

We quickly found ourselves at the end of the summer and the decision of what to do about school was upon us. Selfishly, I wanted her to go to school. I knew it was going to be a big undertaking to home school her. Would she miss out on friends. She loved playing in the band. How would I work part-time and do this. Would she receive a quality education from... me. Not that I didn't want to do it... but I just was scared. Plain and simple. I was scared of the unknown. When it comes to your kids though, wouldn't you do anything? Chris totally supported me in whatever decision we made about this.

(About that time we finally found a doctor who would take Morgan's symptoms seriously. She was eventually diagnosed with PCOS, pre-diabetic insulin resistance and a thyroid that was not working. She also has bouts of anxiety and OCD because of dealing with the untreated medical problems for so long. Her journey to a diagnosis really is a story of its own that deserves a post (and more!) dedicated to it. I will talk more about it another day. But, God is truly working miracles in her life!!)

And so we made the decision. We would be homeschooling this year!! And when that decision was finally made I immediately felt a sense of peace. Through all of this the only way I can describe it is just turmoil. But with that decision things changed. I felt empowered. I talked to some friends who home schooled. I ordered a curriculum that I had no clue about - but thought looked good. I started searching on the internet. I bought a teacher's plan book. I read all the state rules regarding homeschooling. And I prayed and asked God to give me the strength. I also prayed that He would give Morgan the strength as well. She was excited, but apprehensive the same. Her biggest fear was missing her friends. I promised we would find some support groups or something. And a support group for me as well.

The day before school was to start I went into her school to withdraw her. I don't think I've ever been so nervous in my life. It felt so final. Yes, I had a peace about it but I still couldn't stop thinking about all the "what-ifs". I've heard how schools give parents a hard time when they withdraw their child. But the school counselor knew my heart. And she knew Morgan. Even she was very encouraging and wished us well. I appreciate everything she did for us.

Tomorrow I will continue talking about our first few weeks of homeschooling... the disasters, the successes and the few tears that were shed as well. Along the way it also changed my whole concept and perspective of education for my children... and a few life lessons for me as well.

Until then... have a blessed day!!

I love this.

http://owlcityblog.com/2010/10/25/my-hope-is-found/

Twenty - Eleven

Rockin' it old-fogey style...

Chris and I rang in the New Year watching American Pickers and Pawn Stars. And, of course, Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve. Yes, we are old-fogies. I don't mind, we actually don't get quiet time like that together very often. Morgan and Ryan were at friend's houses and Rachel was being her typical quiet self here at home. We ate at La Hacienda earlier in the evening and those people, even at 7 pm, were a little too drunk and loud for me. The thunder was quite a nice surprise for New Year's Eve though. I don't think I ever remember that before.

The New Year...

I was out this morning and saw quite a few people jogging. Target and Wal-mart are selling tons of organizational products. Gyms are selling memberships like crazy. All the diet companies are flooding television with their diet commercials. Yes, the resolutions have been made by all. I would venture to say that today is probably the most well-intentioned day of the year. Tomorrow, well, not so much. My only resolution is to keep up with this blog. I've made and broke resolutions in the past. So, I basically don't bother anymore. Why wait until January 1 to create a new life for yourself? Like the Toby Mac's song says... "If you gotta start sometime why not now?"

Looking back...

So how much time does everyone spend in reflection from the year past? I guess it just depends on what happened during the year. I love to watch news shows where they talk about all the major news events, the people who've passed, etc. Some of it I totally forgot the next week while some of it stays with me. One thing I did do last night was work on my "2010 family photo album". I used to scrapbook every picture I ever took of the kids - but those days are long gone. Now a lot more of the pictures go into the album than into my scrapbook. Its alright though. It was fun to look back over the year and see what our family has done. I couldn't believe how much the kid's had grown!

2010 started kind of rocky for our family, but I have to say we left they year a whole lot stronger. It has been a year of patience, learning and prayer. I may not understand why things are - but I do know God will never leave us alone. I sometimes feel like 2010 was such a huge lesson-learning time for me that I still can't wrap my head around it. I could go on and on about it... so I'll save it for next time. :)

If I had to pick one event that affected me the most out of 2010, I would pick The Rock and Worship Road Show. Mercy Me, Remedy Drive, Family Force 5, Fee, David Crowder Band and Francesca Batestelli just to name a few of the artists. It was just an amazing experience all around. Morgan, myself and her youth-group attended the Fort Wayne show back in the spring. I have never been to a more moving concert. To be in that big of an arena with people who love God, love the kind of music I do, watch people lose their inhibitions in worshipping - it was just phenomenal. It will be something I will never forget. I am a little disappointed that the concert is not coming here this year - and a lot of the bands are different. Bummer.

So for now... Happy New Year, everyone!! May 2011 be your best year yet...

First.

Wow. I feel like I should start this in some special, meaningful way since this is my "debut" post on my new blog.

Hello, Bon Jour, Hola, 'Sup, Yo... uhm, nevermind. Let's just get to it...

So, I've never had a blog before - I'm not even good at writing in a journal. But I feel like I have so much to say sometimes - ask my kids or husband. I have been contemplating doing this for sometime now. I went back and forth - I don't have time, no one wants to hear what I have to say, etc. etc. I ultimately decided I would do it and just try to have fun with it. If for nothing else - for me.

I've thought a lot about my expectations and hopes for this blog. I think my number one goal is just to share my life with others. Its not something I very openly do. Yes, my inner circle knows me and what I do - but I generally do not open up very much. God has shown me that I need to share His blessings in our life more than what I do. I want to tell how He has brought us through some very difficult experiences happening just this year. He is truly the reason we have made it through this year and I am grateful!! That will be for another post... haha

The little "about me" paragraph at the top of the blog is some of the topics I want to talk about. They are my life. They are my values. I think there are enough that it will keep me busy. I want to share inspiration that I see around me, the everyday moments that crack me up, and hopefully just another voice to let others know they are not alone in this crazy thing we call life. There have been times I wondered if I was the only one going through a certain thing. Mothers need to unite and lift each other up!! As a mother of 2 tweens and a teen... I feel like there needs to be a support group now more than ever. Up all night with a screaming kid?? That was nothing. Can I get an Amen, fellow moms??

What you won't find here is someone always using correct grammar, being politically-correct, a gripe session or someone dishing out advice. I merely want to share experiences in my life. What you do with it is up to you. And I don't want anyone judging me. Variety is the spice of life, ya know?

So with that being said.... here goes nothing....