tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73058529136877932842024-02-19T17:15:50.798-09:00A Family is an AdventureOur life in Alaska and in Oregon has intertwined in such a way... Alaskantonians? Here's our story...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger224125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-2593681009026308342017-10-19T08:43:00.002-08:002017-10-19T08:43:51.250-08:00Highlights of Late...the Adventures Never End<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlRIlDw0Al16noETbqjsBjmUooKzlBEQiPsP3bu60q2P6LjCOvN2h1RNCHF3I44GggIfa9L1BAtisrbl3m8A_CWLrFl3dm7LfTOnqgOoresmpI4tMcxukmiclgXs5h0Q6kEugvIySuas/s1600/OCT2017+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlRIlDw0Al16noETbqjsBjmUooKzlBEQiPsP3bu60q2P6LjCOvN2h1RNCHF3I44GggIfa9L1BAtisrbl3m8A_CWLrFl3dm7LfTOnqgOoresmpI4tMcxukmiclgXs5h0Q6kEugvIySuas/s320/OCT2017+029.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Heron Rescue</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wear gloves and goggles...they have sharp beaks</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Success!</td></tr>
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We called the <a href="https://www.chintiminiwildlife.org/about.htm">Chintimini Wildlife Rehab Center</a> and dropped this elegant bird off the day we found it. It's a wonderful place just outside of Corvallis, Oregon. It's the second time this year that my son has rescued a floundering bird. The first one was a red tailed hawk earlier this year. <br />
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We have learned that it is illegal to keep these birds in captivity. As much as our hearts desire to help and nurture these fallen creatures, it is our authorities that have legal jurisdiction over them. Sometimes it is difficult to obey our laws when our hearts plead for something else, but the intellect can and will win out. Perhaps this is why Christianity is losing the battle on the intellectual playing field. <br />
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Have you ever slowed down enough to realize we are called to love the Lord our God with not only our heart and soul, but our intellect and strength as well? We've been reading, "Cold Case Christianity for Kids," by J. Warner Wallace and Susie Wallace with Rob Suggs. He points this challenge right out of Scripture and we've been encouraged by examining our faith in this way. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son on the left, his side kick buddy on the right....</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demonstrating a chemical reaction for our joint homeschool gathering...</td></tr>
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I have enjoyed watching this group of young people grow. What a blessing it is to have friends that love the Lord, desire to give their children a godly education, and will sacrifice to get the job done. It isn't an easy road...educating against the flow of modern thinking, but it is a peaceful road filled with solid relationships. <br />
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Are you actively engaged in teaching your children to love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength? (Mark 12:29-31)<br />
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Is it O.K. or right to simply engage the mind once a week, Sunday morning and perhaps a mid week service and a few times here and there amidst day long submersion in a godless educational system? <br />
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I'm just asking some hard questions....prying up some sort of century old thinking that somehow lost its moorings a while ago....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinderella or Mother Hubbard?</td></tr>
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We're confused....where's our prince? Where's this simple, peaceful, fun filled life we're all supposed to be living? I'm telling you it is here, it is attainable. BUT only in Christ Jesus.<br />
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I'm reading a book called, "Becoming a Woman of Simplicity," by Cynthia Heald. I recommend this to all women no matter your age, or standing in this life. It cuts away all the pigeon holes we create and gets us back to our first love.....Jesus Christ. This book should be on every Christian woman's shelf.<br />
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Happy Adventures everyone!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-30812479014050604342017-07-06T13:23:00.000-08:002017-07-06T13:23:03.832-08:00What's the school house looking like now?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTy-VRzj6uG6KvnnmEHauh2xnSbdYZTbduH4eiL3_ysC_33eRvHM7TT1oF9vdIlM3JeogIioccmcn5vZ7ztY_KiGi2N_1cIvPJo2nz3H0-cQ4ZRMEmPfcIrHQBIZVuj-XuRYANTFSuWuQ/s1600/schoolhouseupdate+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTy-VRzj6uG6KvnnmEHauh2xnSbdYZTbduH4eiL3_ysC_33eRvHM7TT1oF9vdIlM3JeogIioccmcn5vZ7ztY_KiGi2N_1cIvPJo2nz3H0-cQ4ZRMEmPfcIrHQBIZVuj-XuRYANTFSuWuQ/s320/schoolhouseupdate+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The floor is back..yes, original 1906 wood.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd6JlDfpdebpUSb7pKyUiSSQV7WvyZ0fbkoicGrqsK8l3XlLZOOWe29Ds2e5X7Kj8-FI0nXSnv2guNH9CThmEL1pzyT2M9aEVv7u46BNu81Jgi06BHax_-lvDIgwkkZxbD-hfK64FGJ6Q/s1600/schoolhouseupdate+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd6JlDfpdebpUSb7pKyUiSSQV7WvyZ0fbkoicGrqsK8l3XlLZOOWe29Ds2e5X7Kj8-FI0nXSnv2guNH9CThmEL1pzyT2M9aEVv7u46BNu81Jgi06BHax_-lvDIgwkkZxbD-hfK64FGJ6Q/s320/schoolhouseupdate+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We added a little picket fence coat rack...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP2lpyjMxidtI-uI6XYkF-SIWib3wHCyc1kev_yWcdX4GOrUVFjjuTEpyFgFQgw0XkqpSjr79gLpxYr8y8icOzAzVJHKv_3wuqKaY5uSXGZqdTII2gk3GvsoMOY983HUcp0RbnGe2AIro/s1600/schoolhouseupdate+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP2lpyjMxidtI-uI6XYkF-SIWib3wHCyc1kev_yWcdX4GOrUVFjjuTEpyFgFQgw0XkqpSjr79gLpxYr8y8icOzAzVJHKv_3wuqKaY5uSXGZqdTII2gk3GvsoMOY983HUcp0RbnGe2AIro/s320/schoolhouseupdate+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Come on in and check it out!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TpTix1oVg3Q6sRP2LcgsNOuUk_xd_T8KyNb3ZoDc5WpziYJ1roLFwBKmgGubpuJ4LNrOnkpYB_0OU-VJSs89y9Tto1njxWTtxIMgtMy5Z6YMOWVtg9TS7KGGZSF1LefpcQPfl6s_6L8/s1600/schoolhouseupdate+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TpTix1oVg3Q6sRP2LcgsNOuUk_xd_T8KyNb3ZoDc5WpziYJ1roLFwBKmgGubpuJ4LNrOnkpYB_0OU-VJSs89y9Tto1njxWTtxIMgtMy5Z6YMOWVtg9TS7KGGZSF1LefpcQPfl6s_6L8/s320/schoolhouseupdate+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cozy corner...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUBDkqg5NP8jSQUlgyLwlrkdQfQ9LyaQ_n9UJ1CczYtP29FsxlZqckWFW0h9krAofBqX1Gv19C8FiatZKo6ICf2jh5tzM26BXHeXhvOHQNqSzDeBJzGEGGHVwBf3B2fsOFX1NZUzpi9Jw/s1600/schoolhouseupdate+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUBDkqg5NP8jSQUlgyLwlrkdQfQ9LyaQ_n9UJ1CczYtP29FsxlZqckWFW0h9krAofBqX1Gv19C8FiatZKo6ICf2jh5tzM26BXHeXhvOHQNqSzDeBJzGEGGHVwBf3B2fsOFX1NZUzpi9Jw/s320/schoolhouseupdate+029.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The play structure is up and in need of a fresh coat of paint!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70IUcIO880Ce2wXQ6w0soBeZAZUphjQXz7CsyN1wApcmJJOIv_z2azNK9UN2cltK3loO3myaUE99Cw4zDaTD8UHT6m1hOuZ2uyA_sedqNRHpbraaBx8H3ybHSWqIWCy8fq5llyJR6dOA/s1600/schoolhouseupdate+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70IUcIO880Ce2wXQ6w0soBeZAZUphjQXz7CsyN1wApcmJJOIv_z2azNK9UN2cltK3loO3myaUE99Cw4zDaTD8UHT6m1hOuZ2uyA_sedqNRHpbraaBx8H3ybHSWqIWCy8fq5llyJR6dOA/s320/schoolhouseupdate+031.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So is "The Barn"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGDweRmg5AtvB4s9GIWsNmDqtk8jmVe5ztQYuV3kCPPg2nf7ZUDRPLk7ZH3oOTxglwzz-Spwgqc4tHbS4T0Kdv0Xj6JZFfJWmrBCSVgUV0z6BMIZZdTg5DEaf9YG0ATLaA_Y6pQsNC80/s1600/schoolhouseupdate+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGDweRmg5AtvB4s9GIWsNmDqtk8jmVe5ztQYuV3kCPPg2nf7ZUDRPLk7ZH3oOTxglwzz-Spwgqc4tHbS4T0Kdv0Xj6JZFfJWmrBCSVgUV0z6BMIZZdTg5DEaf9YG0ATLaA_Y6pQsNC80/s320/schoolhouseupdate+039.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always under construction...</td></tr>
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For those of you curious to see what we've been up to these days, you can check out our new website at <a href="http://www.teamschoolhouse.org/">httpp://www.teamschoolhouse.org</a> Drop us a line, we'd love to hear from you.<br />
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We hope it will be a wonderful gathering place for generations to come should the Lord tarry that long.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-43373120147346454092017-06-28T12:37:00.000-08:002017-06-28T12:37:09.159-08:00Enjoying the first raspberries of the season<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dlh-G2XPkGXhLj_nRbsrQ9FhBKs2z0p_Hp36bdhfeg9s8EifD3n2mnk5y_2z34Tk1RbseSWG0tXk_WRosK7itsMM7D19Ev06acqIvijAID-2sNBxr499478C0n_KWbiH9LckFtgv6sM/s1600/puzzlepiece+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dlh-G2XPkGXhLj_nRbsrQ9FhBKs2z0p_Hp36bdhfeg9s8EifD3n2mnk5y_2z34Tk1RbseSWG0tXk_WRosK7itsMM7D19Ev06acqIvijAID-2sNBxr499478C0n_KWbiH9LckFtgv6sM/s320/puzzlepiece+035.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can almost reach...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4JJx629IfZboRPSjLrrewiAmrUL1n03nOVdC83d2_YGbkc8BowXPO-LEkci-3Y-fmNAW-4dqflauhDVQ4mA_dkZhAAGPMUbQXuc9TyxYgFV7auhjogOxKpa27fNlkFMnK7PKMUy9NU90/s1600/puzzlepiece+038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4JJx629IfZboRPSjLrrewiAmrUL1n03nOVdC83d2_YGbkc8BowXPO-LEkci-3Y-fmNAW-4dqflauhDVQ4mA_dkZhAAGPMUbQXuc9TyxYgFV7auhjogOxKpa27fNlkFMnK7PKMUy9NU90/s320/puzzlepiece+038.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'll help you...what are big brothers for?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My children found a few raspberries already! I must admit, I think that they were still not quite ripe but they were so excited to spot a change in color, they couldn't resist.<br />
<br />
The days with our little ones are passing quickly and I want to enjoy them. I never realized that it would actually take work to learn to enjoy parenting. I'm glad for all those encouraging words like, "Enjoy it, it passes quickly." or "Just focus on raising your children," or "You're doing enough." <br />
<br />
For an over achiever and a people pleaser, as I was gently reminded yesterday, I need those reminders to slow down and enjoy what God has given me. <br />
<br />
Oh, if only I didn't need repeat reminders, but alas I am only a human, created in God's image, not in the image of SUPER MOM. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-67489738834003214162017-06-04T21:17:00.001-08:002017-06-04T21:17:43.675-08:00Am I just getting Old?Yes, we've coined a new term for our last trip to a popular theme park in California....<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpn0zuY6iz0ERY120uTsUfLEGmTvsqka8V5FS6riJczmmyaTJJav_FVBQ34KegcxJZ8OfT9hEND_Nrtf4uru5YIdXeHZ6JStw2yLU6oTd_Nin6vhaHJli1_sPHS_zegDBWvkFIsnkqobU/s1600/cell+phone+ca+trip+508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpn0zuY6iz0ERY120uTsUfLEGmTvsqka8V5FS6riJczmmyaTJJav_FVBQ34KegcxJZ8OfT9hEND_Nrtf4uru5YIdXeHZ6JStw2yLU6oTd_Nin6vhaHJli1_sPHS_zegDBWvkFIsnkqobU/s320/cell+phone+ca+trip+508.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insanity Land...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyffGJAK_6Y3o7ExiwrusS-KkGjagxES03TeWkIapKDkKKpII6NaHhMEJY1sGcQbuJIpxK4Ou30hoNRS1WgIMpIRjUnx-_EwUwhYxMBFbep1j9kYcgdWSHQFYfTY4L1qhyXZ7GjzVw7Bw/s1600/cell+phone+ca+trip+537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyffGJAK_6Y3o7ExiwrusS-KkGjagxES03TeWkIapKDkKKpII6NaHhMEJY1sGcQbuJIpxK4Ou30hoNRS1WgIMpIRjUnx-_EwUwhYxMBFbep1j9kYcgdWSHQFYfTY4L1qhyXZ7GjzVw7Bw/s320/cell+phone+ca+trip+537.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blankie's make everything better....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
However, after we got over the impatient feelings of waiting in lines, we did enjoy our times together....<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOF0iereqnsxDVBC1rszy4BmfmWXE7bNTgHwPl1DeUgTdTzIAIRV8fTSkaGiUQ3cmO7hBDwh1O1qq-1HEXK4cDm5plliVr4MTuX9vfJUBgN5DZep5tTnBtDbLXT58p7ZU7vhNSG-ZtErc/s1600/cell+phone+ca+trip+520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOF0iereqnsxDVBC1rszy4BmfmWXE7bNTgHwPl1DeUgTdTzIAIRV8fTSkaGiUQ3cmO7hBDwh1O1qq-1HEXK4cDm5plliVr4MTuX9vfJUBgN5DZep5tTnBtDbLXT58p7ZU7vhNSG-ZtErc/s320/cell+phone+ca+trip+520.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sisters enjoying a ride together....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYYUJrgDpF9fgw70xfQGJh6sc4ijPMoLm04YJctawiRt3ZSIbaCy9usDfixn47udAXP2VfVWxApkU86K_RJhwDO0lBEXb1vTym-uFbrIWrRcyUxVPHuw68Ky02g1XRMJZROQbnYTcQAo/s1600/cell+phone+ca+trip+531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYYUJrgDpF9fgw70xfQGJh6sc4ijPMoLm04YJctawiRt3ZSIbaCy9usDfixn47udAXP2VfVWxApkU86K_RJhwDO0lBEXb1vTym-uFbrIWrRcyUxVPHuw68Ky02g1XRMJZROQbnYTcQAo/s320/cell+phone+ca+trip+531.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brothers too..."as long as I get to operate the controls..."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Why insanity? Lines. Long ones. Dark and noisy and never ending. People. Long ones, short ones. Noisy and never ending. Expensive food. I was warned but not prepared for the $10.50 turkey leg and $4.00 piece of corn on the cob....it was cooked....with butter, does that help to ease the pain?<br />
<br />
I did enjoy seeing the smiles on my children's faces and my niece's and nephew's faces, however. I enjoyed the laughter of my in-laws and their smiles too. But I was already enjoying those for the past week as I got to witness my husbands' parent's celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary. It was grand, glorious, and beautiful to see family coming together and enjoying one another. We ate lots of food, enjoyed visiting everyone's friends, playing with new friends, cousins too, and just basking in a bit of heaven on earth. We were all "living in the moment."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFFKJGyWRxKC0OasgeUULNEjPEjEYkNp2Lh0fs-2wbmsLWjEZAmlK16Z5Ay0Py3fL-2M0NOSoTQutS1nIvlGyzWOE5p6VdiyEzZ3vdlF04N6DBlHdrdp9jheVB8oRlQQeSM-Up-n996Y/s1600/cell+phone+ca+trip+417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFFKJGyWRxKC0OasgeUULNEjPEjEYkNp2Lh0fs-2wbmsLWjEZAmlK16Z5Ay0Py3fL-2M0NOSoTQutS1nIvlGyzWOE5p6VdiyEzZ3vdlF04N6DBlHdrdp9jheVB8oRlQQeSM-Up-n996Y/s320/cell+phone+ca+trip+417.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFVTsMlteb-L7aPp_dO_8QsWguU1EuMLATnYlCD-5Jv6luRrm93yYInLayFyIKA-_P5djDWxvCCTSJJ_3bhRJuSvlpbo-K6w0I-gOkdLb0yGBKcp84QROb0QTE95jOtcpnIaUXY4vRZc/s1600/cell+phone+ca+trip+413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFVTsMlteb-L7aPp_dO_8QsWguU1EuMLATnYlCD-5Jv6luRrm93yYInLayFyIKA-_P5djDWxvCCTSJJ_3bhRJuSvlpbo-K6w0I-gOkdLb0yGBKcp84QROb0QTE95jOtcpnIaUXY4vRZc/s320/cell+phone+ca+trip+413.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying seeing the WHOLE Gerhardt Family together again!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So there weren't any wild rides, except for the few spent in the traffic lanes where motorcycles zoomed by on the white lines between vehicles.... but there were wild moments like water fights, climbing trees, lots of food, great desserts made by my sister-in-law, hugs, kisses, and people hanging out without any......LINES. It was wonderful. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRtOC9xkYnR2TfdWA9SnubzLcDiqiJfHY0haVYA4zEkqJJiWuXv8SHUzb7jhjEh0EgnrLuvvvCHmNuGyQUk0-JicItk9E8gu8y5zF47Izu3yyKPjMBCZGmH23ym7ovDA1f6o63XAtCxUQ/s1600/cell+phone+ca+trip+452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRtOC9xkYnR2TfdWA9SnubzLcDiqiJfHY0haVYA4zEkqJJiWuXv8SHUzb7jhjEh0EgnrLuvvvCHmNuGyQUk0-JicItk9E8gu8y5zF47Izu3yyKPjMBCZGmH23ym7ovDA1f6o63XAtCxUQ/s320/cell+phone+ca+trip+452.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brothers and Sisters in the front and in-laws in the back....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTOZ7duuDvW0S6LyO1hKEDJAXnQAdnad5_RTzfi8y9gVD1NiQ6XFp1hUL2emoFySnlplEn3MCncIgGON8jIlj-PCsenCUVEMYze7aR87aeUkP-3csxtbNxUiu9MJSIkKn80G5iVO5eUM/s1600/cell+phone+ca+trip+538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTOZ7duuDvW0S6LyO1hKEDJAXnQAdnad5_RTzfi8y9gVD1NiQ6XFp1hUL2emoFySnlplEn3MCncIgGON8jIlj-PCsenCUVEMYze7aR87aeUkP-3csxtbNxUiu9MJSIkKn80G5iVO5eUM/s320/cell+phone+ca+trip+538.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saying goodbye and a few last hugs...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We enjoyed a new found family friend's swimming pool and home and just kicked back and relaxed. Perhaps "Insanity Land," just couldn't compare with real people, sharing real stories, enjoying real laughter and real times together..<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-34590062642016105172017-05-08T12:48:00.001-08:002017-05-08T12:48:55.607-08:00Creating a Device Free Zone<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46HQzwI1Zz1hLTOSfLCZKP5YBYDXRHC8jsj7gXYBVe_UsXthorhdfk0cF1ngKAFVrFD2wxdO2FQn0fsKKxSEq-BvQWyeEc7gpZ_C1o4CBtCvpgcIWxU_RyTc-cl1mzYd9AMLtQVOe43A/s1600/flowerpotcrateidea+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46HQzwI1Zz1hLTOSfLCZKP5YBYDXRHC8jsj7gXYBVe_UsXthorhdfk0cF1ngKAFVrFD2wxdO2FQn0fsKKxSEq-BvQWyeEc7gpZ_C1o4CBtCvpgcIWxU_RyTc-cl1mzYd9AMLtQVOe43A/s320/flowerpotcrateidea+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Got a Crate? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Have you ever gone wireless? I mean like, no phone, no internet, no distractions or interruptions? If you've lost your focus somehow or maybe you don't even realize you've lost your focus, you will gain some good perspective simply from putting your phones and internet away....just try it for a day. Maybe you could try it for two, or three? Let me know how it goes and what you learn.....<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjARlogbGWT_lTW2-yUiVwMw02HMXH8W-T1bDSDVf9KTEQz8iEW8p7THlA3KIxS9h8CRuFWgn1iSFZjZhFt9tIv8GiUN4vgwNj3Ek881UHTR5jD8YO2y0j1OoBz1C9XZDEPtU9zEAt9_yQ/s1600/flowerpotcrateidea+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjARlogbGWT_lTW2-yUiVwMw02HMXH8W-T1bDSDVf9KTEQz8iEW8p7THlA3KIxS9h8CRuFWgn1iSFZjZhFt9tIv8GiUN4vgwNj3Ek881UHTR5jD8YO2y0j1OoBz1C9XZDEPtU9zEAt9_yQ/s320/flowerpotcrateidea+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trade in for Something better...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here's what I learned and jotted down the other day....<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Six of my seven children have come down with the chicken
pox, my husband left for a 4 day men’s retreat, my eldest son tilled up the
phone line yesterday, and a bird had the nerve to poop on my shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The good news is that I don’t live in Alaska
anymore and I am so glad the ground isn’t frozen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Because…. I had to dig a 16 inch deep ditch for the new
phone line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rain clouds were hovering
threateningly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could see them coming
and I never know when it’ll start or stop pouring here in Oregon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The phone man won’t connect the wire back up
until he sees a ditch and since I can’t dig one fast enough for him to wait;
he’ll come back on Monday to inspect the job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At first the digging was fun….until I hit the cement like
clay at 10 inches…I know because I measured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You know, 16 inches doesn’t sound like much until you actually start
digging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had a remarkably clear mind
as I’ve been without phone and internet now for almost 24 hours….I had a lot of
time to ponder a multitude of things in my life because I wasn’t on facebook
looking and reading about everyone else life happenings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To make a long story short, I want to set clear and well
defined boundaries around the activities, projects, and friends who enter in my
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are all good except they crowd
out the best…my family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
thoroughly enjoyed these past few days caring for my sick children, and as a
side note…one of them had received the chicken pox vaccination but still got a
full blown case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sorry to have to burst
all the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>bubbles surrounding
vaccinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">BUT don’t get me on that soap box….you know I was thinking
that I’d like to make a real soap box so I could use it for a homemade soap
mold, one of those activities that pop up in my mind that I’ve been wanting to
do now….oh only for 7 years now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See,
it’s a case of “highly distracted mom syndrome.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m pretty sure I could reverse this by
focusing on the few important tasks that God has put in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">#1 Love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul, and mind.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">#2 Love my neighbor as myself…that would be my husband and
children.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I don’t see much room for else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I might have to leave the internet in the
dust, everything good that God has brought into my life has never arrived via
the Internet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He doesn’t really have a
use for it, although the Bible says to redeem the time so I suppose its
redeeming value is that you can connect with people quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Except somehow in my mind it all gets jumbled
up unlike when I see people face to face, I remember what they say and I
connect with them as a real person.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, what was I talking about anyway?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Another case in point of “highly distracted
mom syndrome.”)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">OK, it was about the sheer joy I’ve experienced these past
two days just being Mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Easing the
discomfort of my children, talking to them, looking into their eyes and caring
about what they have to say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Putting wet
wash clothes on their foreheads, preparing healthy food for them, cleaning my
home, working in the yard, reading books and snuggling on the couch, helping to
bathe, brush teeth, and put soothing oil on their skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I worked alongside my one healthy child, who is really an
adult now, at 18 years old, digging dirt and shoveling pea gravel together,
watching him maneuver a tractor with a scooper blade I was so proud of
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He interviewed for his first job
yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t hired on the spot,
like I thought he’d be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(So I’m a little
biased… I am his Mother after all.) But when he came home and I asked him how’d
it went, he responded with his characteristic charming smile and proceeded to
tell me that it would be better for him to just start his own business since he
learned he’d have to buy all his own tools anyway but that he would know next
month when they began hiring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s my
boy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wasn’t it just yesterday he was pushing his TONKA
truck?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I watched him drive off for a
few days with his friends, I had nothing but pride and confidence that I am
right where I need to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am available
and I am walking with the Lord Jesus Christ.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Listening to my daughter’s share the lessons they are
learning from their walk with God and asking me my opinon is so rich and
rewarding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The relationships God has
given me are such a blessing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I watched
them in the past few days serve others even though they were not feeling well
themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They don’t complain, they
don’t make excuses; they pitch in where needed and work with vigor and good
attitudes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They even had time to make
healthy brownies.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My kids are truly amazing and I don’t have to take the
credit for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, yes, I surely would like
to amass to myself some praise but all my failures would surely outweigh it all
as every good parent will eventually and hopefully someday confess.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Speaking of confess, I don’t have to push, pull, or pry my
children into following Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
follow Him because He’s set them free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They follow Him because He’s a gentle leader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They follow Him because He’s real to
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They follow Him because He’s good
and cares about them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are engaged
in relationship with the King of the Universe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What more success could I possibly want or long for, but that “my
children walk with Thee.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get it!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The world will mock and scoff my chosen career pathway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I fight against it at times in my life but I
always come up empty handed. When I let go of my self-centered hopes and dreams
and embrace God’s best I am filled with such peace, joy and contentment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suddenly my eyes are open to the work He’s
doing, the work others are doing or want to do around me, and then all the
half-baked work I get done, suddenly takes on meaning and value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s my job….I manage, my work is always
partially done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps that is why
yesterday I willfully finished the “Gingey Travels the Alcan” story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, it wasn’t perfect but it was good enough
for my family and children and probably a handful of friends and relatives.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I want to re evaluate and track every activity I choose to
be a part of…what is most healthy for me as a wife, Mother, Daughter, and
Friend?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What relationships, activities,
books, service, or meetings encourage personal growth in areas of my
spirituality, my physical well being including nutrition and fitness, my marriage,
my finances, my work and project ideas, my writing, etc? </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m looking forward to two whole more days, almost 3 of no
phone and internet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been praying
for guidance and wisdom to know what to do with the “Ole’ Schoolhouse and Gym”
and whatever it is, it will be a device free zone that I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-49776718839937105072017-04-27T14:06:00.000-08:002017-04-27T14:06:35.055-08:00My Childhood TreeHouse Remains!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fX9LJiOvED0FaK1UMrQ5-mEw-ooXfmtjcCWzSWzQXMJCCN-O5K7YESr5I_3FqRt3Kfw6tXrKEN-0OuP95gSmIoPT1Z4mpfRKUTVrGCKGNjqcxqigMigC7fjYZgHpAnswUKCcaHjOb4k/s1600/IMG_2101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fX9LJiOvED0FaK1UMrQ5-mEw-ooXfmtjcCWzSWzQXMJCCN-O5K7YESr5I_3FqRt3Kfw6tXrKEN-0OuP95gSmIoPT1Z4mpfRKUTVrGCKGNjqcxqigMigC7fjYZgHpAnswUKCcaHjOb4k/s320/IMG_2101.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ole fort!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few weeks ago I was given the honor of viewing the property and home of my childhood. I was excited to see our old fort still perched up in the old oak tree. Even that rope ladder that was so difficult to climb still hung as testament to the challenges of life and growing up! <br />
<br />
I suppose as I think and muse over my life, this photo of our fort that we built and created approx. 30 years ago, captures the beauty of life, even as it's ending. Everything is given to rot, decay, disease, and old age. But not everything will die. <br />
<br />
God has created within us, a living breathing soul that will live throughout an eternity. Earth is just a passing phase and so brief at that. As I stood looking at the old fort standing as witness to many a good fight so many years ago, I couldn't help but feel proud of my parents for raising us the way they did. They certainly gave us a lot of freedom to roam but introduced to Jesus Christ. They had recently come themselves and they taught us what they were learning. It was discipleship at it's earliest stage.<br />
<br />
As we all walk the road of life together, we've experienced brokenness on some level in some way. We may be tired, we may be healing, we may be experiencing great victories or suffering defeat. Life is made of ups and downs and we shouldn't expect anything other. <br />
<br />
Yet though it all, we are in reality victors. Victors over sin, death, bitterness, and strife. We may not look successful to the world but we are called His own beloved and precious, bought with His blood. <br />
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We are filled with memories, laughter, love, mercy, kindness, and forgiveness. We are filled to the brim with joy and peace that surpasses understanding. We are at rest deep within our souls, knowing God hold's our future and that for an eternity with Him.<br />
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Though the outward man is wasting away, the inner man is being renewed day by day. Press on Mama's and Daddy's everywhere. You are building eternity in the hearts of your young as you introduce them to Jesus. Every other pursuit in life will pale in comparison to the pursuit of your Savior. I'm so glad my parents left their dreams in the dust and pursued their Master, Savior, Lord and King. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-24934813316416130942017-04-14T22:18:00.001-08:002017-04-14T22:18:15.185-08:00Celebrate LifeHave you ever lost momentum....didn't blog for....oh I don't know, like 4 months? That would be me. So it's catch up time....what have we been doing? Um....probably a lot of face book instead, which I have to admit can be good and bad. It's a little distracting....OK a lot distracting. I'm trying to get some momentum here, it's Good Friday, after all, which really is good in the long run, but not so good a few thousand years ago......<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsU0sdTE3SS23afP1iAtnpweYYfvG84PymHK98n70TlkEegT1Pz-tkjS4Nk5lzKWXhrWtla4E2zaJbbXrm582LXJQXhXdEjaXUXYmf-bgRH-tZaRcegk1qFJMf6IRg5EgQ2SX3LoynEyQ/s1600/crazyaboutcrates+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsU0sdTE3SS23afP1iAtnpweYYfvG84PymHK98n70TlkEegT1Pz-tkjS4Nk5lzKWXhrWtla4E2zaJbbXrm582LXJQXhXdEjaXUXYmf-bgRH-tZaRcegk1qFJMf6IRg5EgQ2SX3LoynEyQ/s320/crazyaboutcrates+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our flowers out front, boldly defying gravity...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
It was the smell of spikenard, wafting up to the nostrils of a dying man. He hung gasping for his last few breaths. His body ached. He was numb, bruised and bleeding. Perhaps he passed in and out of consciousness, somewhat aware of his surroundings in those last few moments. All his friends and family had deserted Him. Those who just days before rejoiced at his coming, now cowered in the shadows. No one would claim Him. <br />
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But the smell....the expensive oil must have still been clinging to the skin of his feet and the hair of his head. Perhaps He found comfort in this. It was the last recorded act of a woman giving her all to worship her Savior. He spoke up on her behalf and said the work she did was good, not to be despised. The disciples were indignant....what a waste in their opinion. <br />
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What work, woman, this Easter do you give your all too? Have you dared break your most precious vile of oil over the Master's feet? <br />
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How many times, Lord, must I break, how much do you want of my heart and life? All? Every last drop? Yes, it is finished, take it all, the work is done. <br />
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I am alive! Yes, so truly alive in a way I never knew existed. Oh, but the joys of releasing all and gaining back what is really life. Free to love, forgive and be everything you ever created me to be....walking in your precious grace day to day. What victory, what gain, having lost it all, yielding my heart to your will, watching your plan unfold.<br />
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Having lost some momentum I've gained insight to your mighty power at work in the lives of those around me, I worship you this Easter just as I am, as you made me to be....whole, complete and forgiven.<br />
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Had you asked me years ago when I chose the name, team Gerhardt, for this blog, I never would've guessed that God had an actual gym in store for us years down the road. What I thought was a random idea, seems prophetic in a way now, looking back...I suppose you could argue random chance or coincidence but I'd rather believe that there really is a God who loves, cares, and created you with a specific life purpose to live out for His glory.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-25128677558951127262017-01-20T14:00:00.001-09:002017-01-20T14:00:38.150-09:00Inauguration Day Celebration in our Pajamas<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHAgf6jTP4uZZaA41i6BkiKdb0TRDAdnzguLS03aJnBqZHFp2TPbCu5pO5rR-_b30D5aO6sxwUFpksQR6V67yirf7ndkyQXffQgz0eQsitt46r3RmTI7Hj-zuJ0WHXqAv3aORGfgrt0_Y/s1600/Jan20+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHAgf6jTP4uZZaA41i6BkiKdb0TRDAdnzguLS03aJnBqZHFp2TPbCu5pO5rR-_b30D5aO6sxwUFpksQR6V67yirf7ndkyQXffQgz0eQsitt46r3RmTI7Hj-zuJ0WHXqAv3aORGfgrt0_Y/s320/Jan20+047.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are we done yet?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
All 8 of us, aged 18 months, to 41 years gathered around our tiny computer screen to watch the swearing in of our new President Trump today, live! It was so exciting to see and hear the speeches and listen to the historical excerpts being read, including the Bible. The prayers and singing were beautiful. <br />
<br />
We entered into discussion about the honor and privilege we've been born into here in America. We are so thankful once again to our armed forces and police for their protection and the freedoms they have fought and won for us. We are excited to support our new leader. May we constantly be in prayer over the direction of our country and the steps it will take. May it be done in such a way as to bring glory to God.<br />
<br />
We are so thankful to have watched this momentous occasion in the comfort of our own home, in our pajamas of all things! As I put my arms around my children this morning I had a lump in my throat, realizing that they, someday, will be the next leaders of my beautiful and dear country, AMERICA. They may not hold political positions of leadership but most likely will be parents and in authority and leadership from that perspective. <br />
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From my perspective as their Mother, I am again reminded of my importance in their lives and therefore, the future of my country. We need to raise our children up to love one another, love the Lord their God, and set the standard for nations to follow in the footsteps of our forefathers. What a serious and honorable position of Motherhood. May God grant all Mothers and Fathers the strength to rise up and lead their families in truth as we progress forward in the world.<br />
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I suppose the highest standard we will ever wave in the sky will be the banner of love. It will never fail. America press on!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-84134104132191486232017-01-15T20:13:00.000-09:002017-01-15T20:13:21.799-09:00New Year Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDE5U6xfPZ9tU8PyyJBgfAI12RYs0cnpDRfV8J8SpxqnYOj5oZQ99j7sGWyIMPLHd2W1GgUkJ-2jWZhdIbnziUjH3oRWTx9cLvXMfcbVPKR1Lvmsf1fQ3INgkvr_tbbECI5BmBzUWksqo/s1600/Youngbergs+065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDE5U6xfPZ9tU8PyyJBgfAI12RYs0cnpDRfV8J8SpxqnYOj5oZQ99j7sGWyIMPLHd2W1GgUkJ-2jWZhdIbnziUjH3oRWTx9cLvXMfcbVPKR1Lvmsf1fQ3INgkvr_tbbECI5BmBzUWksqo/s320/Youngbergs+065.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bringing in the New Year with a BANG</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy New Year everyone....I suggest not making any new resolutions, you'll just forget about it anyway and then be discouraged that you were never able to live up to your own expectations.<br />
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Instead, I challenge you to get rid of anything that continually trips you up and entangles you in sin. Press on towards the high calling and finish line, looking to the author and finisher of your faith....sound familiar? <br />
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It will not only encourage you, inspire you, build you up and make you a success, you'll live forever while doing it, make new friends, learn to love your enemies, doing good to all those that surround you. What more could you want for the New Year?<br />
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Oh, but it's not about you.....I know, I know, we hear it all the time but it's a passing smokescreen covering up your emptiness and real need for a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. <br />
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How is that possible? How do you have a real relationship with the God of the Universe? It's been started for you already in His heart...He is the person of Jesus Christ: His work already finished...death on the cross, His proof of identity...being raised from the dead, His is the power and kingdom and dominion forever, AMEN.<br />
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Trust Him at His word. He loves you. He's reached out to you in the form of His very own Son, will you call on Him today?<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-44220087994273229142016-12-29T16:03:00.003-09:002016-12-29T16:03:51.304-09:00Oregon Colleges were Once Christian<a href="http://ncbible.org/nwh/orcola.html">Oregon Colleges started out by Christians and for Christians</a><br />
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Follow the link above and be amazed. We've come so far away from what our Christian forefathers had in mind....we can put our heads in the sand and try to forget about it, or begin to read for ourselves our past history as a nation and country. I hope that our new President and the new Year in which he rises to leadership will bring us back to the bedrock of truth....a foundation that our ancestors once believed in. Happy New Year Everyone!<br />
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I've heard it before; most colleges and universities were started and run by Christians. Now I've read about it in the above link and it hits close to home....<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWMgl1naJokBMNqjwulgcI0UrQkjCsrZICrFZFBYFHAxxyOsUxTJif1izng2uh4Vt6ME-xAVK0ztktGmZTiSbiSwm79zYamFg_JucOLcVAi-sA7OXvYgCTHQU7gKGwyOPnIU85q67zp0/s1600/Christmas2016+127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWMgl1naJokBMNqjwulgcI0UrQkjCsrZICrFZFBYFHAxxyOsUxTJif1izng2uh4Vt6ME-xAVK0ztktGmZTiSbiSwm79zYamFg_JucOLcVAi-sA7OXvYgCTHQU7gKGwyOPnIU85q67zp0/s320/Christmas2016+127.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas 2016 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We are eagerly anticipating using this old schoolhouse built in 1906, and it's connecting gymnasium built in 1931, for private parties and events in the coming new year. We see a real need to reconnect the generations and learn from one another...some of the best ways to learn are through storytelling, hands-on activities, talking to real live people who attended school here, reading old books written 100 + years ago....attending museums, chatting with those who have lived through many wars and hard times.<br />
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No, we're not official yet. This has been a new vision in the making....one we didn't dream up....one that has been growing since we've lived in this place over a year. Yes, a year is along time for some of us.:)<br />
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We hope to share with you as the vision grows and takes on a more structured form in the coming months ahead.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-30449547981365212142016-12-14T20:58:00.001-09:002016-12-14T20:58:30.236-09:00Missing Alaska but enjoying the Oregon snow<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgEjt9S6vexEIDkAzehfyyhWf91HEWyr21mvHrOkCQsX9oPQ_mvJkrp5qIsgE2BEycmB6ZtqdunsMX3Aj_lOkIEc5Uhdx-FTrbQmH6bk9XO0stfQRHXv-6_EdTZavU5tcT8sF80BSqYI/s1600/SNOW+2016+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgEjt9S6vexEIDkAzehfyyhWf91HEWyr21mvHrOkCQsX9oPQ_mvJkrp5qIsgE2BEycmB6ZtqdunsMX3Aj_lOkIEc5Uhdx-FTrbQmH6bk9XO0stfQRHXv-6_EdTZavU5tcT8sF80BSqYI/s320/SNOW+2016+078.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowflake anyone?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy91f6u-bhnaVTVjWw0vik6dwAWYaIm_G72h1mk34z6lvlXAS2XcYqHT9HX_QURd8-6YOy9tHfwvgknnB2zrFW-vwRhRyJwmy7AUVLMmBFaPjHS1JKjd0HpAU0PQYmz_7TIT4P-fczQ9c/s1600/SNOW+2016+069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy91f6u-bhnaVTVjWw0vik6dwAWYaIm_G72h1mk34z6lvlXAS2XcYqHT9HX_QURd8-6YOy9tHfwvgknnB2zrFW-vwRhRyJwmy7AUVLMmBFaPjHS1JKjd0HpAU0PQYmz_7TIT4P-fczQ9c/s320/SNOW+2016+069.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What could be better than this?</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRBQ1n7OBcqpdLCNWvYe5KM-UmZnJ4pElYOA-GKKu2NzaBq_8Yl8fTSj_fDuuq2mNTcdcmk-dxbQ7G23iBqfmpCtl20GC6uJphaYKAfUsBMZgxB-3B_kYZHgWr7EWAEPHli8SoEVH3nA/s1600/SNOW+2016+065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRBQ1n7OBcqpdLCNWvYe5KM-UmZnJ4pElYOA-GKKu2NzaBq_8Yl8fTSj_fDuuq2mNTcdcmk-dxbQ7G23iBqfmpCtl20GC6uJphaYKAfUsBMZgxB-3B_kYZHgWr7EWAEPHli8SoEVH3nA/s320/SNOW+2016+065.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby's first snow...in Oregon.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTcZ-EwsGLmHLqCSGpli2ntvg_bkRtQSl1gYG7Kemj9CJc44gPyQ4EDDfyPcpDN8TdVLS_hnQSw4otQEc-VeFcGRaMKHvR_Qo9sPf1QvcSqlpiCKpJVpeqV-CzrJTNOTUt3X1aV52pYg/s1600/SNOW+2016+127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTcZ-EwsGLmHLqCSGpli2ntvg_bkRtQSl1gYG7Kemj9CJc44gPyQ4EDDfyPcpDN8TdVLS_hnQSw4otQEc-VeFcGRaMKHvR_Qo9sPf1QvcSqlpiCKpJVpeqV-CzrJTNOTUt3X1aV52pYg/s320/SNOW+2016+127.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, it's a real carrot and real charcoal...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGMwaubl1Ou2lzq7cWAMnzt6LYUzRgfdJU1UePlmlQnb-ez9n9YT_XxuhVAcYbPcVIspH6S5acXF75rz8-sAlZpGq1z0D9n6KC_f0FeDNzagfoIqt4_we6x1WcfszXKN_k81S6Pc5bh1M/s1600/SNOW+2016+113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGMwaubl1Ou2lzq7cWAMnzt6LYUzRgfdJU1UePlmlQnb-ez9n9YT_XxuhVAcYbPcVIspH6S5acXF75rz8-sAlZpGq1z0D9n6KC_f0FeDNzagfoIqt4_we6x1WcfszXKN_k81S6Pc5bh1M/s320/SNOW+2016+113.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too cold for piano? Wear some mittens:)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow: the calorie free snack.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brother and Sis enjoying one another's friendship...</td></tr>
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It snowed last week and melted off and then snowed again today. This is a lot of snow for Oregon and we have thoroughly enjoyed rolling in it, eating it, slipping around in it, sledding in it, walking and running in it...pouring molasses on it, throwing it at each other, etc.<br />
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We miss Alaska and all the friendships we made there. God must of known that a little snow here and there is somehow comforting to the soul. It is peaceful and quiet....perhaps because all seven children leave the house:)<br />
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It is such a delight to play in the snow and wonder at the beauty of it. I almost feel like a kid again whenever it snows...I have to resist the urge to call my brothers with the excited shout, "It snowed!" Somehow it is so magical to wake up to a blanket of white, even as an adult.<br />
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Merry Snow Days Everyone!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-24890702843671033452016-11-29T12:54:00.003-09:002016-11-29T12:54:27.941-09:00The First Recorded Thanksgiving....This year we celebrated our first Thanksgiving in our new home in Oregon....except we celebrated in the old schoolhouse first.... We had a wonderful time talking, laughing, playing, singing, sharing our memories of thankfulness for the past years late into the night..and sharing our faith with our loved ones. Many blessings to our friends and family this coming year....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfm7bVBx5Rsp9SeCsNqn05sLHRKT1yyJRYWtgTE4jwJy3cUF2XwInZCO_om8UX1Ldl9IS1GgbhncvddFfqGrXcYSP7ZQ2fd8wa4VeT-9YQQIr1n8g33LOwJmW3UWFKTmZRTyHDSGVWJJ8/s1600/Thanksgiving+067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfm7bVBx5Rsp9SeCsNqn05sLHRKT1yyJRYWtgTE4jwJy3cUF2XwInZCO_om8UX1Ldl9IS1GgbhncvddFfqGrXcYSP7ZQ2fd8wa4VeT-9YQQIr1n8g33LOwJmW3UWFKTmZRTyHDSGVWJJ8/s320/Thanksgiving+067.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying laughter</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of smiles from cousins</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7o6Q10do1-xopRuLXOKYaoVQwVN-FXCZXl4JpbQDUUORsNYR9mhprX0zCkQK3F0dd8-bG_mHp3kyNCZwi13YWds-RkEQmobKO_iWLXBmD1SKLOYJ8jP7Ro4HtlXWGa5w7mxSG_yVF9HE/s1600/Thanksgiving+079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7o6Q10do1-xopRuLXOKYaoVQwVN-FXCZXl4JpbQDUUORsNYR9mhprX0zCkQK3F0dd8-bG_mHp3kyNCZwi13YWds-RkEQmobKO_iWLXBmD1SKLOYJ8jP7Ro4HtlXWGa5w7mxSG_yVF9HE/s320/Thanksgiving+079.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The warm glow of candles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4iQ5bfeRbkBuMZ-09FZUibzADogeecVTTonKeIdjSiVrlzjogMNBHmPIb9plaJmrH6nM29N7TLprB6u_AH7KDikeTp2ClhcU2EpwXLjsnoT-LDvXZdpcBQJJy8m60VNkNl40TNKxhgc/s1600/Thanksgiving+080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4iQ5bfeRbkBuMZ-09FZUibzADogeecVTTonKeIdjSiVrlzjogMNBHmPIb9plaJmrH6nM29N7TLprB6u_AH7KDikeTp2ClhcU2EpwXLjsnoT-LDvXZdpcBQJJy8m60VNkNl40TNKxhgc/s320/Thanksgiving+080.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The warm hugs of Grandpa and Grandma</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1L3fj3GjNLHHfVKt7EjDIZ0vg6PP4APccUR5xdlOYY-G0VIFF628KjmX_6KBxXeMaRxoUWuM5Q4n_J6LWFdj93XJlQa9kytlzqG88OGr1nkh0r9XYOHTd2sZwojBqi4onXWIXfT7Zlc/s1600/Thanksgiving+086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1L3fj3GjNLHHfVKt7EjDIZ0vg6PP4APccUR5xdlOYY-G0VIFF628KjmX_6KBxXeMaRxoUWuM5Q4n_J6LWFdj93XJlQa9kytlzqG88OGr1nkh0r9XYOHTd2sZwojBqi4onXWIXfT7Zlc/s320/Thanksgiving+086.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warm food on the banqueting tables....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji7t_Mng82_Coffd33yUawePb-udWLm5QlkmybYnPWLPybJipFTAWEx-xgafYyU5jlQvxp2rNXoAK5LexljFP5b3p7xCzjc7DnlM4tsxUvpThA-ELWupMpSgMOSrxwUqbeIOhyR_liV60/s1600/Thanksgiving+092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji7t_Mng82_Coffd33yUawePb-udWLm5QlkmybYnPWLPybJipFTAWEx-xgafYyU5jlQvxp2rNXoAK5LexljFP5b3p7xCzjc7DnlM4tsxUvpThA-ELWupMpSgMOSrxwUqbeIOhyR_liV60/s320/Thanksgiving+092.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More warm glow from the candles....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTIEJ4NFEKvQiZ180E-TCiHXaUWWekbnA2V8ZI4LJYJICG0NdbS3FYv8k7OdXt60hrqmC-QWXUFBIMw6pCbqMs84i_7_0oG4Mc74XtWCkLCcl9g7-M86Hwqvq_RzYm0yUe576HTIa8638/s1600/Thanksgiving+094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTIEJ4NFEKvQiZ180E-TCiHXaUWWekbnA2V8ZI4LJYJICG0NdbS3FYv8k7OdXt60hrqmC-QWXUFBIMw6pCbqMs84i_7_0oG4Mc74XtWCkLCcl9g7-M86Hwqvq_RzYm0yUe576HTIa8638/s320/Thanksgiving+094.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reading time with Grandpa Bill </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRxcwdiGvESPwFDHIAgqV_kbJ7dOE6Py1lSON514phq95SQkAKBeqhNScgxbtdqxC8lehq4BG0cYT7nE9o_AocVzUxme5gb3h0i3IJw3jpB4Rtc4uwYiSM7J_TWc12XUcJrPIETEXWsE/s1600/Thanksgiving+100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRxcwdiGvESPwFDHIAgqV_kbJ7dOE6Py1lSON514phq95SQkAKBeqhNScgxbtdqxC8lehq4BG0cYT7nE9o_AocVzUxme5gb3h0i3IJw3jpB4Rtc4uwYiSM7J_TWc12XUcJrPIETEXWsE/s320/Thanksgiving+100.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chatting and enjoying Finsen's friendship</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcvCKFlyylO_VyaPOK3UYWFnFCnm1AlB_PEw8HATl_vT0bn8Ow6oNdqdPQiJkGTjmbilFB4-Cb9BUaEz7mSbl4at62vsAmh0OoD1vD472cpEKvFhsQmhrt8hiJXr9kyTCo2xUU40_VLc/s1600/Thanksgiving+101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcvCKFlyylO_VyaPOK3UYWFnFCnm1AlB_PEw8HATl_vT0bn8Ow6oNdqdPQiJkGTjmbilFB4-Cb9BUaEz7mSbl4at62vsAmh0OoD1vD472cpEKvFhsQmhrt8hiJXr9kyTCo2xUU40_VLc/s320/Thanksgiving+101.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stepheny sharing some artist's tips....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVwMOKisXnP_QuyKj4c7Z4KY8vfUWMKDF4sgQtu0c-ZA74je0dyK9BMXPjFUq-rTX2fGLx4cbGPayUwP4FdNl4jB1cMpe8MSC_2P4X6q8uke6NIyPekMFNX0hSvQpe4bW9zO7JgKS8-A/s1600/Thanksgiving+103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVwMOKisXnP_QuyKj4c7Z4KY8vfUWMKDF4sgQtu0c-ZA74je0dyK9BMXPjFUq-rTX2fGLx4cbGPayUwP4FdNl4jB1cMpe8MSC_2P4X6q8uke6NIyPekMFNX0hSvQpe4bW9zO7JgKS8-A/s320/Thanksgiving+103.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serenaded by the youngest....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylzYwRm51F8SlMu0FMw4wuWFujKpxHP8YVeYpVlz_zr53KCqRsLctT8piG-hzvJzngOpTLAKRMzyBi7_EZ9rTXr8vS4nYMHeHR_wVVBflWta8krMlTzI4Y9ini7VNK9mmnrmwr5ufeW8/s1600/Thanksgiving+107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylzYwRm51F8SlMu0FMw4wuWFujKpxHP8YVeYpVlz_zr53KCqRsLctT8piG-hzvJzngOpTLAKRMzyBi7_EZ9rTXr8vS4nYMHeHR_wVVBflWta8krMlTzI4Y9ini7VNK9mmnrmwr5ufeW8/s320/Thanksgiving+107.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Learning how to stand on your head with Grandma Debi</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-56926298444655772042016-11-19T13:43:00.003-09:002016-11-19T13:43:48.658-09:00Attack of the Lamp<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6r_D3Ej05fisrzDEy_9tJUaQO2qucOn7BDLxIYlTAxOra6FxoHgDjdfR9uklbAlSfXIOh3Ph5jjKZO8NLAsV-iBiVzHm1HdxBLyHa6L_BWDVqlH-hOUINlo39UFAmuNb5_2qq-HFTniQ/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6r_D3Ej05fisrzDEy_9tJUaQO2qucOn7BDLxIYlTAxOra6FxoHgDjdfR9uklbAlSfXIOh3Ph5jjKZO8NLAsV-iBiVzHm1HdxBLyHa6L_BWDVqlH-hOUINlo39UFAmuNb5_2qq-HFTniQ/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at my bazooka, Mom!</td></tr>
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I recently asked my 6-year old son to help me move a lamp and this is what happened. I had to take pictures. Of course, it turned into a weapon and then somehow warped into a wild animal attack lamp and electrocuted him to death. I used to be concerned about this type of behavior and then relaxed as I have heard multiple godly women, including a dear friend of mine who also happens to be a Pastor's wife, reassure me that this type of behavior in boys is normal..... <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've been electrocuted by a lamp!</td></tr>
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Enjoy a good laugh and if you have little boys growing up in your house, just relax and enjoy their antics as all too soon they grow up and mature into godly young men, living their childish ways behind them...and all their cute little antics.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-17001133665580002042016-11-09T20:48:00.000-09:002016-11-09T20:48:16.881-09:00Leaves of Joy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwiWRCX6T3I8zQY4G7S7oqldXcc333aUmYhyRa71vw4d5iGqOk8srpjtM3KWTOhUWb_YRyO-tr6qODRc_UgnDUzaJ_7i-4O3nrVcvvh5yk_DcCx14PUOSBlJhRs7yw267ZcJuMlksdXow/s1600/sep%2527+oct.+2016+076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwiWRCX6T3I8zQY4G7S7oqldXcc333aUmYhyRa71vw4d5iGqOk8srpjtM3KWTOhUWb_YRyO-tr6qODRc_UgnDUzaJ_7i-4O3nrVcvvh5yk_DcCx14PUOSBlJhRs7yw267ZcJuMlksdXow/s320/sep%2527+oct.+2016+076.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh the joy of falling leaves....and throwing them at one another...</td></tr>
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Wow, another month gone by....so much has been happening around the Gerhardt household but I thought this picture captured something special and simple....joy. <br />
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It's school days spent in the sun, or together in the schoolhouse with other families....<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYeQHNEKFkEp9rR0ZBhjUjVREB0581wFPvTw439HbhjjL8GZpBoBacWZJYikZ7b5JaHJ6AXr_VNq6jNSd4n_JMFSHGDQ24kpO8Q3sbikRelaeuoy7JicqyyxFp4zTbaItp1S-1pYGI9BU/s1600/IMG_6188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYeQHNEKFkEp9rR0ZBhjUjVREB0581wFPvTw439HbhjjL8GZpBoBacWZJYikZ7b5JaHJ6AXr_VNq6jNSd4n_JMFSHGDQ24kpO8Q3sbikRelaeuoy7JicqyyxFp4zTbaItp1S-1pYGI9BU/s320/IMG_6188.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1888 old school desks with little metal ink well holes</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47oNxpue6mTYt-uQRgcGZUgTpGBBb0gLeOPgW1_IETpUWrz4osPW6cdumliOFbUgmpxvAWVnqFf_0hKqcI9hBxwRPbCPrb2B-58vVDgQ3mYr2LlMMQ3ruOFFaoLn1DGEyrnwJ3gKnd4M/s1600/IMG_6265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47oNxpue6mTYt-uQRgcGZUgTpGBBb0gLeOPgW1_IETpUWrz4osPW6cdumliOFbUgmpxvAWVnqFf_0hKqcI9hBxwRPbCPrb2B-58vVDgQ3mYr2LlMMQ3ruOFFaoLn1DGEyrnwJ3gKnd4M/s320/IMG_6265.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> little children of 2016, to fill them up...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1ikQXWWQCWDGhoyNa05vwHr6T2C_dqdpLkmptkWQYaMkS8QCMgy3zTLv7OV7W6a779Z7e83mBIyTVmZtNDDv_4doo6MkqedI6IsPd83ChjvqDCsPBU-UBZajGWh0LDgZclSr8hjCvq8/s1600/IMG_6285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1ikQXWWQCWDGhoyNa05vwHr6T2C_dqdpLkmptkWQYaMkS8QCMgy3zTLv7OV7W6a779Z7e83mBIyTVmZtNDDv_4doo6MkqedI6IsPd83ChjvqDCsPBU-UBZajGWh0LDgZclSr8hjCvq8/s320/IMG_6285.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying our children and students....</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3vsyoZJ4znPged_D3GfKSUL-qjwl-AOqvmVnh5NPny3UQQmKFUGsq99gOtJ169yuEk5KEV1zUweJMpsarL952VhVbtY35bi79qxoeYQcA1XHgUhF57kF9t2ViDH6ZaMNKPf63Fg-W2k/s1600/IMG_6280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3vsyoZJ4znPged_D3GfKSUL-qjwl-AOqvmVnh5NPny3UQQmKFUGsq99gOtJ169yuEk5KEV1zUweJMpsarL952VhVbtY35bi79qxoeYQcA1XHgUhF57kF9t2ViDH6ZaMNKPf63Fg-W2k/s320/IMG_6280.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, there's even room for toddlers in this school house</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeMtz16T_2j1nk7rrnxIJVTlzBv1KLxpSJeMpdfVhM3i9agvwMyxqNJwguuhE0-TTyoZuTxSsUkKV661qn7BeoeMoAngX9gi2M1WdjtuxBUDYO-MjRyhyphenhyphen_Vo3qv3gDfUExkwo_s9Z5eEk/s1600/IMG_6181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeMtz16T_2j1nk7rrnxIJVTlzBv1KLxpSJeMpdfVhM3i9agvwMyxqNJwguuhE0-TTyoZuTxSsUkKV661qn7BeoeMoAngX9gi2M1WdjtuxBUDYO-MjRyhyphenhyphen_Vo3qv3gDfUExkwo_s9Z5eEk/s320/IMG_6181.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Antique wooden easels held together by a piece of rope...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZP_41OJ27jRIqKuVy8NDZCA2oyZFlYmGZ1Ov9p86t32b4hi66LP7g9QN_s8BHwxM4IIcB13Onog5tNNMx0wnwa1UCo27xMdUF4UCFyJOA3WBtIoKDMTX18zHPSRED0C6Xwn80565oB2Y/s1600/IMG_6211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZP_41OJ27jRIqKuVy8NDZCA2oyZFlYmGZ1Ov9p86t32b4hi66LP7g9QN_s8BHwxM4IIcB13Onog5tNNMx0wnwa1UCo27xMdUF4UCFyJOA3WBtIoKDMTX18zHPSRED0C6Xwn80565oB2Y/s320/IMG_6211.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the front of the 1906 school house</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yxfZKKdO8cReVhx_VfXuqqE144YfL9kSoW7NFKOW9dM3kaHJmHS4SioXGgReEC1HZrro-AyIDGn62TWtVgs4kB_O2-f8DFgKUuZH0hC0G4-DgWscU5r7vXJ2DjKGJ9p9Cih1PHnqCvA/s1600/IMG_6244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yxfZKKdO8cReVhx_VfXuqqE144YfL9kSoW7NFKOW9dM3kaHJmHS4SioXGgReEC1HZrro-AyIDGn62TWtVgs4kB_O2-f8DFgKUuZH0hC0G4-DgWscU5r7vXJ2DjKGJ9p9Cih1PHnqCvA/s320/IMG_6244.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the inside of the gym built in 1931</td></tr>
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What we've enjoyed the most over the last year is watching God bring people, supplies, equipment, and encouragement to grow whatever He is growing here. I wish I could tell you exactly what's happening but I can't. AND for once, I'm OK with not knowing the direction God is moving us in. It's His work, done His way, with His people. I'm so blessed to be a part of whatever He is doing.<br />
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All I know is there has been lots of laughter, a few tears, prayers, singing, piano playing, volleyball and basketball games, tag, encouragement, fellowshipping in Christ Jesus, sharing memories, making things, a grammar class, an art and PE class, birthday parties, a recital coming up and hopefully more classes and events on the way.....<br />
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We are so excited to watch people coming together here from all walks of life enjoying one another, enjoying life, learning together and growing. It's a real community forming and it ebbs and flows with such a gentle pace. <br />
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May you all be blessed with peace, joy, and contentment this day no matter what the political climate may bring....after all, our country is made up of real people like you and me and it will be what it will be. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-1037652002449623842016-09-30T13:42:00.000-08:002016-09-30T13:42:52.975-08:00A field trip to the Historic Brunk House<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gO8kJEj4VpJRNQNR2_aFj1ak3yqZnkih1hopj9Ua6OA9GLOhLrzXCAoh4zrnO7672S5gR0B9mGx73GMGmA3zUxUpYM1KBwmyDJbGrQR7ZZHWBtC25F_Nwy5Xn6FwrKgxHLlt63sc87k/s1600/9-29-2016+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gO8kJEj4VpJRNQNR2_aFj1ak3yqZnkih1hopj9Ua6OA9GLOhLrzXCAoh4zrnO7672S5gR0B9mGx73GMGmA3zUxUpYM1KBwmyDJbGrQR7ZZHWBtC25F_Nwy5Xn6FwrKgxHLlt63sc87k/s320/9-29-2016+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How long do we have to stand here and pose?</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUguWA2w5UFoLFXRJl6ar3V7xoWDHG1tzftBrGLwbVlqIZLyuJ1L_MZJIi_arVgwo7zxvO0LrvIXCbO32tItPT_wRJq0ISKq5BMHcQsMshsnGD3Xiwn9-8IvLmDI1zLma1zJZwYaP9iM/s1600/9-29-2016+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUguWA2w5UFoLFXRJl6ar3V7xoWDHG1tzftBrGLwbVlqIZLyuJ1L_MZJIi_arVgwo7zxvO0LrvIXCbO32tItPT_wRJq0ISKq5BMHcQsMshsnGD3Xiwn9-8IvLmDI1zLma1zJZwYaP9iM/s320/9-29-2016+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having fun with an old hat...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3-9Znm5JpZA8FrLhfUUnfpPUaMKKKt0s4SL3jXTvfesq8e7KnB1Nj2vRvf9duzEvhNCQbqcF2z5ijJGke3MRcLBm4MJrAIlAoXY72XnmVGN-fKkTRsHAFD4tPAG7VJzNjtum9yyOwCE/s1600/9-29-2016+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3-9Znm5JpZA8FrLhfUUnfpPUaMKKKt0s4SL3jXTvfesq8e7KnB1Nj2vRvf9duzEvhNCQbqcF2z5ijJGke3MRcLBm4MJrAIlAoXY72XnmVGN-fKkTRsHAFD4tPAG7VJzNjtum9yyOwCE/s320/9-29-2016+055.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This wreath was made of human hair! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuE8aB9QFGQJVjvvGu4X2-lgj28V4gP3UjStvnULa3H6WMe3ysfY195_1qvlBYTIHaQ6wPcBpEoJqdZDAmdRbkMlhegWcS5wHx3bU7QSUxLDZFzHCyeWt65Sdrpp4FPzg3BBDNK4uBTE/s1600/9-29-2016+111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuE8aB9QFGQJVjvvGu4X2-lgj28V4gP3UjStvnULa3H6WMe3ysfY195_1qvlBYTIHaQ6wPcBpEoJqdZDAmdRbkMlhegWcS5wHx3bU7QSUxLDZFzHCyeWt65Sdrpp4FPzg3BBDNK4uBTE/s320/9-29-2016+111.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying my babies and munching on apples too....</td></tr>
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We went to the Apple Cider day at the Historic Brunk House last Saturday. It was so much fun looking in all the old rooms at all the things from yester year....1860 to be exact. There was an old pair of spectacles from Scotland that had been handed down for what they thought may have been 200 years. We can be handed down all sorts of "world views" from our forefathers without really stopping long enough to pause and reflect on whether or not that world view was correct. <br />
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As I strolled along I mused that they were perhaps not that different from us....they had all the trappings and vanity of man as we do today. They had an eye for beauty, they were well educated, they lived in a comfortable home and worked with vigor. Nothing stands out as extraordinary to me except that their house is still standing along with a myriad of other items from long ago.<br />
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Time...people.... come and go...homes....come and go......marriages....friends......health.......money in the bank.....come and go....ideas.....work.....projects....jobs.......hobbies. You get the picture...<br />
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But, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." Hebrews 13:8<br />
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I'm realizing more and more that we really only have moments and in those moments are made seconds, minutes, hours and days. They turn into weeks, months, years, and the passing of time. Moments are more important than memories. You cannot pick your true memories, they somehow choose themselves. Sure, you can preserve snap shots or mementoes to help you, but ultimately, memories are made in moments and then they are gone....<br />
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SO enjoy all the precious moments you have today with all the precious people around you that God puts in your life day to day to day. They were meant for you...gifts from God to you. Don't waste time in vain pursuits even if those around you assure you that you might be missing out. CHERISH your moments today.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-51602924938329968702016-09-06T08:29:00.002-08:002016-09-06T08:34:34.533-08:00Obsidian Flow in Sun River, Oregon<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIDekFzwqchCccOw4YAcalrAALka2mtvNEgL4oPdVTS8THBim-3tziPhVT3-bWmSS1mx70AXNGT6zTIQhBswkt4Yj7aQa__sNoJQaX-YWSp-aGwKR7hJB2YocLgohp-ZlHkfRGDzcqCs/s1600/sunriver+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIDekFzwqchCccOw4YAcalrAALka2mtvNEgL4oPdVTS8THBim-3tziPhVT3-bWmSS1mx70AXNGT6zTIQhBswkt4Yj7aQa__sNoJQaX-YWSp-aGwKR7hJB2YocLgohp-ZlHkfRGDzcqCs/s320/sunriver+018.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lot of kids = a lot of bikes</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjanrrc9uz0orNMzstv8jPBpnIF7x2PrOvOn5bT7yF2_sBVN6go99jP6mjPXK-tmUBKKNTTD-wPmsk2VLbbVUggBh692lpumrwUxPMU_X_cNU6HdEE8m2MfsqPlZXAtW5vdCIWxCIy-cmU/s1600/sunriver+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjanrrc9uz0orNMzstv8jPBpnIF7x2PrOvOn5bT7yF2_sBVN6go99jP6mjPXK-tmUBKKNTTD-wPmsk2VLbbVUggBh692lpumrwUxPMU_X_cNU6HdEE8m2MfsqPlZXAtW5vdCIWxCIy-cmU/s320/sunriver+020.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying friends, a lollipop and a road trip to Sun River....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9g0BP3Z29W3zAZIVoxAZSoLJztzDuWxHrhOypG3iSBXjKz1FXMXPyz3aMnZLAk7kyf8bB07pqhrbMzMN00P6YKssguTT3MLQkYw_RCLK6ZvQDvUeFWXyIF2AKHc5t70HMD_HXC6ZN2Jc/s1600/sunriver+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9g0BP3Z29W3zAZIVoxAZSoLJztzDuWxHrhOypG3iSBXjKz1FXMXPyz3aMnZLAk7kyf8bB07pqhrbMzMN00P6YKssguTT3MLQkYw_RCLK6ZvQDvUeFWXyIF2AKHc5t70HMD_HXC6ZN2Jc/s320/sunriver+029.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking up the mountain of Obsidian Flow near Sun River, OR</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmswfKW0opWy-CAOX6_5ERhjAI13UMWnEK61hHR6Pui13cd1n0ocxWrnNUFA4xdb-NAzMnmNANXHJlULx1S5OKRMmq_ei8mP9d5ulquvWOWLyyUAAszBY6RaQdGBlOZj01FtNMFqriRK4/s1600/sunriver+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmswfKW0opWy-CAOX6_5ERhjAI13UMWnEK61hHR6Pui13cd1n0ocxWrnNUFA4xdb-NAzMnmNANXHJlULx1S5OKRMmq_ei8mP9d5ulquvWOWLyyUAAszBY6RaQdGBlOZj01FtNMFqriRK4/s320/sunriver+037.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are nearing the top....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdnY-kTnHhS76YK64huqKJrOVKzGMHDnW8ESfkEw0eoEufmBM7BikFMIr-leHFirPYIvEWKHQI37pRaE4kvzU-xby1AH8BB0DlbXfT20IQFHSnUKEYkERORIcf9PMGXOmAJe07wzaS9M/s1600/sunriver+038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdnY-kTnHhS76YK64huqKJrOVKzGMHDnW8ESfkEw0eoEufmBM7BikFMIr-leHFirPYIvEWKHQI37pRaE4kvzU-xby1AH8BB0DlbXfT20IQFHSnUKEYkERORIcf9PMGXOmAJe07wzaS9M/s320/sunriver+038.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a little further....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_IYbvU7NZlQXpNxt9CvXvr-8xICBsCMZK3KZUsGXnJ2G3j3UMyiQoMX2irASyF7g-O9ITqTZpEVOxQ85qoY3xWj__AJb_jSL0hk1CutN-_kaDa0GnXMFl3U_NDv3PI9NSjyugNIlR3Q/s1600/sunriver+040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_IYbvU7NZlQXpNxt9CvXvr-8xICBsCMZK3KZUsGXnJ2G3j3UMyiQoMX2irASyF7g-O9ITqTZpEVOxQ85qoY3xWj__AJb_jSL0hk1CutN-_kaDa0GnXMFl3U_NDv3PI9NSjyugNIlR3Q/s320/sunriver+040.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look how strong I am? It's pumice:)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTkLetilI04mm5HMjTMxX87WEKcPwmekcjwb7UuT2WhkQ6Si1T4Ps0NKT3Zpjs849DLg34I9Cs4tGASlWvdNbMjc6qZJE-wgY04f-9NCs3oOSyAuBkpmVboDAALYxC6U1fkz1vnZAOt0/s1600/sunriver+058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTkLetilI04mm5HMjTMxX87WEKcPwmekcjwb7UuT2WhkQ6Si1T4Ps0NKT3Zpjs849DLg34I9Cs4tGASlWvdNbMjc6qZJE-wgY04f-9NCs3oOSyAuBkpmVboDAALYxC6U1fkz1vnZAOt0/s320/sunriver+058.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the top...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihID7BUfA3t_nSroQVvJ6o7D1UaQZbn2hqthgirZWwf9qMWtDZbx3YO8v7jP1BrQI5DQD6cRZBiGK5B7w4oknoI2XslQtF2-ISzk3SLlUfwS_uDdMev0RA0EAl6iCtrYpKXlw8aprDk4g/s1600/sunriver+076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihID7BUfA3t_nSroQVvJ6o7D1UaQZbn2hqthgirZWwf9qMWtDZbx3YO8v7jP1BrQI5DQD6cRZBiGK5B7w4oknoI2XslQtF2-ISzk3SLlUfwS_uDdMev0RA0EAl6iCtrYpKXlw8aprDk4g/s320/sunriver+076.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resting on Obsidian might not be the best idea....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikoMSSpct_F1b8jy9c7XTY2JmH0TISNwUuMwGY5e49DI49JUYD9hC65MEvHDnQq0lBKmJPr9onsmZL5xLUZrY5fldQilB-CEkreLvP-d4tV4vq78fIBUKEvafSnam33zMnpRx6PnPQXrc/s1600/sunriver+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikoMSSpct_F1b8jy9c7XTY2JmH0TISNwUuMwGY5e49DI49JUYD9hC65MEvHDnQq0lBKmJPr9onsmZL5xLUZrY5fldQilB-CEkreLvP-d4tV4vq78fIBUKEvafSnam33zMnpRx6PnPQXrc/s320/sunriver+078.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's actually something alive!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTnUIXtDEwK2DX-kBc4OariZBYw2Uv4HzL6GF2BSsIFDXDSO83UNWxH6_Zpriy0cG0TOA6iLVvmjhp2C6TNifUPNC79foytPfDLCnyTDiPvH-ffD54dS91lAPsY1eZRCifqqUJAjpmjo/s1600/sunriver+081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTnUIXtDEwK2DX-kBc4OariZBYw2Uv4HzL6GF2BSsIFDXDSO83UNWxH6_Zpriy0cG0TOA6iLVvmjhp2C6TNifUPNC79foytPfDLCnyTDiPvH-ffD54dS91lAPsY1eZRCifqqUJAjpmjo/s320/sunriver+081.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Life and death, huge difference, absolute line between the two....<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What do we do when the lines of morality (who's alive spiritually and who's asleep and why is it dangerous?) become blurred in this life, perhaps even in our churches...we go to the Lord in prayer as usual. We go to one another in a loving, mature discussion, using our spiritual gifts to build up one another in the body of Christ, bringing glory to God. Business as usual despite what is going on in the world around us....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-23702668360843760852016-08-31T05:43:00.001-08:002016-08-31T05:43:53.742-08:00The Genius of Vicki Bentley<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdoY9k8jzQrgX51eD9Qbp_dDQZKlJswhkFUYuXiAJKcRK0ECf9eSQgM176ZmzG3PYKkur3J0CeyBQgcLTh-fTAQo4vJnxNKukBWnRnPUBopphxTCBXBPgfgMqQxtevPDO4Wf5rFsGY64/s1600/organizational+AUGUST+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdoY9k8jzQrgX51eD9Qbp_dDQZKlJswhkFUYuXiAJKcRK0ECf9eSQgM176ZmzG3PYKkur3J0CeyBQgcLTh-fTAQo4vJnxNKukBWnRnPUBopphxTCBXBPgfgMqQxtevPDO4Wf5rFsGY64/s320/organizational+AUGUST+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Paper Management System that Works!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIsTfOYD-7Fvsb6ooWCd5vJIKkDOuyU21v6vp84ntH7wbg2stylvaCd3N5YD63P1fdQYmhSNAlnHcUgplIBYBUHykjvxg6WOEHMeLvYy4Nvi5GSJDIpZd1ippTDwADUntDOIdPojxCMYs/s1600/organizational+AUGUST+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIsTfOYD-7Fvsb6ooWCd5vJIKkDOuyU21v6vp84ntH7wbg2stylvaCd3N5YD63P1fdQYmhSNAlnHcUgplIBYBUHykjvxg6WOEHMeLvYy4Nvi5GSJDIpZd1ippTDwADUntDOIdPojxCMYs/s320/organizational+AUGUST+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What's inside...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQh6KtMUw7pjXSg69XjGknPsnfX47UKT4h2KkwxsXlCxbs5VzABh1vA9ncw7szYVAq-NCqlBd1xE4_GzbCkNOCXRH95Qh_W2BhbQkKoPSBLBoC9IJU0OlTQYYUvH4MDezkpBLhCVWSwz8/s1600/organizational+AUGUST+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQh6KtMUw7pjXSg69XjGknPsnfX47UKT4h2KkwxsXlCxbs5VzABh1vA9ncw7szYVAq-NCqlBd1xE4_GzbCkNOCXRH95Qh_W2BhbQkKoPSBLBoC9IJU0OlTQYYUvH4MDezkpBLhCVWSwz8/s320/organizational+AUGUST+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What's outside....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Is anyone buried under paperwork from home, ministry, business, school, church, etc? How do you keep it all straight? Wonder no more.....Vicki Bentley to the rescue. This woman is a genius. Whether you home school or not, you'll benefit from her written works.<br />
<br />
"The Everyday Family Chore System," "Home Education 101," mentor manual, and "My Homeshool Planner," are the spiral bound notebooks I recently purchased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
I am so thankful to the Lord for creating this woman and so thankful that this woman shared her experience in notebook form for others to glean from. Her notebooks are simple, black and white, easy to follow and easy to reference. <br />
<br />
I've spent the last few days reading in "Home Education 101," the sections entitled, "I Know It's Here ....Somewhere," and "I've Tried Filing, But it Just Keeps Piling..." <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6m2xLhYW1NiTNcF3po4CF261YKul5DhfQ_xzBpPxib8DLPRXhXskRmQJjd_4Mh_tiKYk2JMAZumSTiRUUXQUiHTd5D4k1NFMJS_K5U4Q-eFWvZvVtg2HzMq5BCfNEu4DzRtqEAwXacrw/s1600/organizational+AUGUST+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6m2xLhYW1NiTNcF3po4CF261YKul5DhfQ_xzBpPxib8DLPRXhXskRmQJjd_4Mh_tiKYk2JMAZumSTiRUUXQUiHTd5D4k1NFMJS_K5U4Q-eFWvZvVtg2HzMq5BCfNEu4DzRtqEAwXacrw/s320/organizational+AUGUST+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So I can now see my desk area....yet have a little more to do...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC0JN6jUsSDEGUISI842hoEeHlA6SYy39XD88ZqnCwSlbM-HIcMQ0UEFufIaHfBszAq7Ond74aobxp71NZYgi4MsOd1NlOFTaGG4pxiBY5A3w8rfCnVSXSX9hed9iTViTw9Dy8hZHw6wM/s1600/organizational+AUGUST+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC0JN6jUsSDEGUISI842hoEeHlA6SYy39XD88ZqnCwSlbM-HIcMQ0UEFufIaHfBszAq7Ond74aobxp71NZYgi4MsOd1NlOFTaGG4pxiBY5A3w8rfCnVSXSX9hed9iTViTw9Dy8hZHw6wM/s320/organizational+AUGUST+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this tip...have children deposit a quarter when borrowing office supplies:<br />
Upon returning, they get their money back,<br />
if you have to retrieve supplies from them, you keep the money.<br />
At this rate, I'll be saving up quite a lot....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistW6UbeGmAToXLY81bs_LwKeXJjcJvAVleSCWIPsK-_-3BdDDSdtOosP9stPY19IDGwoUmkwqMO9TojTl7tdOBNeVAXHuT0EbCe-FXAkpV2ZTuyC7M-b3FCI0L-GGrWOF5o3V634RlkQ/s1600/organizational+AUGUST+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistW6UbeGmAToXLY81bs_LwKeXJjcJvAVleSCWIPsK-_-3BdDDSdtOosP9stPY19IDGwoUmkwqMO9TojTl7tdOBNeVAXHuT0EbCe-FXAkpV2ZTuyC7M-b3FCI0L-GGrWOF5o3V634RlkQ/s320/organizational+AUGUST+018.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LOVE this chore chart, it actually works. Paper cue cards<br />
are glued on clothespins...easily distracted people can clip<br />
them onto clothes as they go about chores.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGm7tGKAcEzVxlvi8jJbmXKvzENq3M1XdeG7KZj_Ikp0U-NiNu9XpDvlI-YjXTuFuj4n9C1J3XNZ-asY6_oM-KtFDApkqmPS0y4_SmmWMsdrykVe4Uw3RsS41S4yc55JsfnuGXJLCnNk/s1600/organizational+AUGUST+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGm7tGKAcEzVxlvi8jJbmXKvzENq3M1XdeG7KZj_Ikp0U-NiNu9XpDvlI-YjXTuFuj4n9C1J3XNZ-asY6_oM-KtFDApkqmPS0y4_SmmWMsdrykVe4Uw3RsS41S4yc55JsfnuGXJLCnNk/s320/organizational+AUGUST+022.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vicki Bentley has taken the chore out of thinking and writing up<br />
the details of completing each chore by typing them all up neatly on<br />
3X5 cards that we keep in the yellow box.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
What comfort and joy I have found in finally understanding why a typical
filing system has never worked for me....I'm so easily distracted and full of
creative ideas and love to implement new projects and strategies and encourage
others to do the same (sorry to all my poor family and friends). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
I have sticky notes all over the house, and scraps of paper here and there
and……Vicki understands and says, it’s OK!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hallelujah, I’m not insane, I’m just highly distracted at times and God
loves “highly distracted at times people”….we’re part of his gift to the body
of Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We just need to be
disciplined to keep ourselves and ideas and projects organized and under
self-control….<br />
<br />
I've been using Vicki Bentley's strategy for a couple weeks now and both my
husband and I are amazed. We are feeling on top of things, planning
better, freeing up more time because we're not thinking about all the things we
need to do, talk about, or constantly trying to remember when to do everything.
<br />
<br />
We now have an allotted time and place for all paperwork and project ideas
and a time in which to discuss each. Now we have time to look at each
other and enjoy one another and our seven children without thinking of all the
other things that are pressing. <br />
<br />
This woman has lifted a HUGE burden off our shoulders! What a gift to
the body of the Lord Jesus Christ! We got to listen to this woman at the
OCEAN Homeschool Conference and were so blessed by her humble, yet full of
wisdom and encouragement talk. She probably wouldn't like that I'm
calling her a genius and amazing, but it's true and I want all Mom's and Dad's
everywhere benefitting from her style and advice...she's flexible, yet has a
realistic framework in which to put things. This is something rare and
lacking in a lot of organizational books and help out there. <br />
<br />
I would like to host a "Home Education 101" workshop for new and
seasoned moms here at the "Old Orchard School House and
Gymnasium." We need to learn from one another and now I have a new
tool to bring it all together under one roof, thanks to Vicki Bentley.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-77014597181041898892016-08-19T09:53:00.000-08:002016-08-19T09:53:15.784-08:00Back to School with a Flock of Wild Turkeys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIWNAE0RydAs7vlREiawHzz0f6kSvPCXAP4bgJYG6cMGb7m_QlTNuSeP1LKfkNIBKeflxxd1UqCbtfoJic05hwzvnUX2yDs_8_CmS0p-y6vL8O5LqaKnaH-x-71mHAs93bBhyBV67Y4c/s1600/wild+turkeys+041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIWNAE0RydAs7vlREiawHzz0f6kSvPCXAP4bgJYG6cMGb7m_QlTNuSeP1LKfkNIBKeflxxd1UqCbtfoJic05hwzvnUX2yDs_8_CmS0p-y6vL8O5LqaKnaH-x-71mHAs93bBhyBV67Y4c/s400/wild+turkeys+041.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow the leader....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
These wild turkey's were God's analogy to me during my quiet time this morning....OK, not so quiet because my 3-year old was awake witnessing God's handiwork as well....<br />
<br />
Six little baby turkey's...goslings I suppose... scampered across the lawn following mama and daddy turkey. They happily puttered along. Sometimes they formed a straight line, other times they all spread out. They arrived on my front lawn in a wild frenzy, having been separated by a car zooming by. They regrouped, calmed down and continued on their journey. <br />
<br />
The night before they were roosting in our neighbor's gigantic fir tree. As I've observed these wild turkey's in the past few months I've noticed that they travel everywhere... together...teaching and learning together. Their day to day life experiences are the training ground for success for the next day and so on and so forth. They are learning about safe places to roost at night, how to cross the road, where to find food, etc.<br />
<br />
It reminded me again of God's command in the OT to teach and train up our children as we rise up, sit, and walk together, going about our daily work and duties. Daily life provides ample training grounds for a well rounded and solid background for...ahem....daily life which all added up together create history and future. <br />
<br />
Do you ever wonder how the masses of people from 1000's of generations back taught and trained their children for the disciplines and duties of adult life?<br />
<br />
(I have three teenagers this upcoming school year, as well as two elementary aged children who happened to learn to read over the summer, a 3-year old not far behind and a toddling one year old) I ponder a lot these days....<br />
<br />
Did the generations before us have the tools and resources that we have today? We share something in common...we all have a brain...we are learning from birth....growing and maturing with the aid of curiosity. We were all born into a family or lack thereof, and someone made a decision for us, regarding our care.<br />
<br />
So we don't share modern day teaching resources, what of it? Is it all the resources, books, and learning opportunities that make us smart? Or could it be...simply that the fear of the Lord is truly the beginning of wisdom? <br />
<br />
Strangely enough, 22 years ago, I spent some time helping out on a huge turkey farm in Canada. To make a long story short, these farm turkey's had absolutely NO sense. Instinct was bred out of them. They reacted to life....from being herded with a long handled push broom to laying eggs in neat little nests provided for them in rows and rows of boxes. <br />
<br />
The turkey's couldn't respond, they could only react. They never questioned why their eggs disappeared every day. They just knew the easiest and cleanest place to lay them. (They are turkey's, of course they wouldn't, you say...yet for the sake of analogy, stay with me.) <br />
<br />
They never understood freedom. They never experienced life like those wild turkey's in the above photo, who were guiding and teaching their children to be wary of all the dangers of living life day to day. Those turkey's were so obviously a real family having a grand adventure out in the real world and lived.....really lived.....yes in real danger and real victory....they lived.<br />
<br />
Let it be said that we really live. Whether you choose, as a parent for your children to be educated at home or educated abroad, or educated in the local public or private school, you are free to choose.<br />
<br />
Let it be said that we Christians really know how to live. Yes, in real danger...in real victory...in hard times and in good...we know what it means to be content. We know what it means to forgive and love. We know what it means to endure fiery trials and come out unscathed by the grace of God. We know what it means to serve our neighbor, our country, or the globe and do it joyfully!<br />
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The same grace that saves us is the same grace God wants us to operate in as we work for him. We are his workmanship created to do good works which he prepared in advance for us to do. Are you walking today in that same grace that you first experienced at the cross? That grace doesn't change and it's bottomless, never ending. I just learned that literally, the word works means, "the results of grace." Have you found God's grace today? Did you find it years ago and get distracted? It's never too late.<br />
<br />
I'm finally reading a Bible study guide that my husband's sister gave me years ago, "Using Your Spiritual Gifts," by Eddie Rasnake and published by AMG Publishers. One of the verses I read today was a charge from I Peter 5:2-4 to, "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away."<br />
<br />
Let's teach our children daily what it means to follow God and sense His voice amidst the noise and clamor of the world. He's a gentle teacher, a "chief Shepherd" as I Peter 5:4 proclaims. We are to be examples to our children, modeling what it means to be a follower of Christ. As God leads us, so we lead our children. What a blessing and privilege to be a parent...we should do it willingly, wake up early, ready to serve, not ready to lord it over them. Ready to be a living sacrifice and example to them of day to day Christian living in the 21st Century. <br />
<br />
Are you In? <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-14099542094917623512016-08-06T19:59:00.003-08:002016-08-06T19:59:46.435-08:00The First Zucchini of the Season<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbFrDDndpEyndva6p8N9MzMlSyuGv4bL4ZtKkZM7eT7yIla9vsOo4pccZLOk9wNdO9iSraf5vM6jj3Y-bvsrhvNo1txsel2jWsDxV_1FdYSeuQUE2H96uHUaYDD-ujZugCRvy7EdNBgU/s1600/Agst.+5+2016+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbFrDDndpEyndva6p8N9MzMlSyuGv4bL4ZtKkZM7eT7yIla9vsOo4pccZLOk9wNdO9iSraf5vM6jj3Y-bvsrhvNo1txsel2jWsDxV_1FdYSeuQUE2H96uHUaYDD-ujZugCRvy7EdNBgU/s320/Agst.+5+2016+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It has arrived.....</td></tr>
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Please tell me you're as happy as these children when you pick your first zucchini of the summer...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvIpA3uoDZ_GOZgu_S2Lt2QTBZljN9naWew1iM1M0K8gLqqsskAf5fbFQI-0v0YhDy7nsybQCOlkk1tz87ycuTuUrwqpgIYsTSd2bdUW6oIND8DbCl4VSYxDXeo7c_QFrl_TCp8KmstY0/s1600/Agst.+5+2016+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvIpA3uoDZ_GOZgu_S2Lt2QTBZljN9naWew1iM1M0K8gLqqsskAf5fbFQI-0v0YhDy7nsybQCOlkk1tz87ycuTuUrwqpgIYsTSd2bdUW6oIND8DbCl4VSYxDXeo7c_QFrl_TCp8KmstY0/s320/Agst.+5+2016+050.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The overgrown office</td></tr>
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Please tell me your desk at home sometimes looks like the above...don't you love it when your kids grab the camera and take everyday still life shots. Why do they call them still life when it is anything but still...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtb0ZcM3sMeMb5rryDKgaZ9mBiDwfBxMLBr2321fsbv3PjswpV-gRZfQK6uV4f2Hyp9aH7gQWh822zPzZLm6csVCl8WA8pf_dm_jzB7FfnbRAMhYu46ZV6fenIICSgJtqSVDJDI-3_aQ/s1600/Agst.+5+2016+056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtb0ZcM3sMeMb5rryDKgaZ9mBiDwfBxMLBr2321fsbv3PjswpV-gRZfQK6uV4f2Hyp9aH7gQWh822zPzZLm6csVCl8WA8pf_dm_jzB7FfnbRAMhYu46ZV6fenIICSgJtqSVDJDI-3_aQ/s320/Agst.+5+2016+056.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Budding young Princess</td></tr>
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Life...please be still..they are growning up too fast, I'm so glad the kids grabbed the camera and took pictures or I never would have had this one....yes, I shed a tear when I flipped through these and saw my daughters, from teenage, elementary, and preschool all playing dress up and dance together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBBAcRhVv3HrZfyv6hNAjvKln3OE3YnpUhiTM3NMp7GXeuk3BIuWwXyRL-3vG7nVpsgtmBCiqu1sJzyAvzOQweUb5TVVkkScu6Za3KstnPWDWpNbqKx3guOYtI5rs9lLY_7V84QTVmZA/s1600/Agst.+5+2016+068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBBAcRhVv3HrZfyv6hNAjvKln3OE3YnpUhiTM3NMp7GXeuk3BIuWwXyRL-3vG7nVpsgtmBCiqu1sJzyAvzOQweUb5TVVkkScu6Za3KstnPWDWpNbqKx3guOYtI5rs9lLY_7V84QTVmZA/s320/Agst.+5+2016+068.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another young princess....wait, there's two!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYV72jGnYX4hvks-7pGYBEztVL7Ya8Z6Z8mSE2ngZm_InZ3_kzbodwknALFBY1pyrY4UrGDzxNXSktsHls_kcoCZF_w152sRavcghz6u779Km9yuTKzZtBEv63D4bxZcc1KI8L2S0xvg/s1600/Agst.+5+2016+074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYV72jGnYX4hvks-7pGYBEztVL7Ya8Z6Z8mSE2ngZm_InZ3_kzbodwknALFBY1pyrY4UrGDzxNXSktsHls_kcoCZF_w152sRavcghz6u779Km9yuTKzZtBEv63D4bxZcc1KI8L2S0xvg/s320/Agst.+5+2016+074.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You're interrupting my horse ride....ahem!</td></tr>
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Please tell me your children ride your couch cushions and you sometimes leave your vacuum in the living room....for a few days....OK....maybe even a week...argh!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBr6e4mLNDDtwo49imP9B2c0HV916gccKGXFNF0xZXMXmWFvSAbtP63LR2GW5iZC4NqNhkZNPHCSo0q87V8snuG3To_zER7R73CQQ28Yx3GQ0C8qCXN6j3lGUMVo4IlSs_AFBpKP343w/s1600/Agst.+5+2016+085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBr6e4mLNDDtwo49imP9B2c0HV916gccKGXFNF0xZXMXmWFvSAbtP63LR2GW5iZC4NqNhkZNPHCSo0q87V8snuG3To_zER7R73CQQ28Yx3GQ0C8qCXN6j3lGUMVo4IlSs_AFBpKP343w/s320/Agst.+5+2016+085.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ship ahoy! Or mow me down!</td></tr>
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Big brother got creative with his mowing chores the other day and towed his siblings in a plastic boat behind him. And, yes, safety conscious as he is, he had them wear earmuffs and eventually eye protection as well as a hanker chief for their mouth.<br />
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I probably should read my old posts before posting a new one....ha ha I didn't realize I wrote about the same pictures twice. I was thinking they seemed rather familiar...but you know....it had been a while.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-65123660524800050872016-07-29T07:02:00.003-08:002016-07-29T07:27:58.204-08:00Swim in a Sea of Confusion NO MORE<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5-dTJVPo2r7didQCJUmITEV4MxSGcbnMZJ0UlWYOdY_ByvZ66iahj9kLi8RV6Zmur-mtQRFAZYAJEWjnAHJS9YpmN_TX-aaQg-IlTUo2Wu7pVkAqozIquu4zSTzkfJQjNELhQ7LMci0/s1600/photo2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5-dTJVPo2r7didQCJUmITEV4MxSGcbnMZJ0UlWYOdY_ByvZ66iahj9kLi8RV6Zmur-mtQRFAZYAJEWjnAHJS9YpmN_TX-aaQg-IlTUo2Wu7pVkAqozIquu4zSTzkfJQjNELhQ7LMci0/s320/photo2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taft Beach, just south of Lincoln City, Oregon</td></tr>
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The above photo is deceptive. Anyone who's been to this beach knows that this is an enjoyable and walkable distance out to the rocks and back. It's easier done when the tide is out, but still doable, just a little wet. <br />
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I think the idea of home schooling looks like the above photo for a lot of Christians. It invokes thoughts of fear, failure and an impossibility. However, when you actually step away from the picture in your mind and enter in to the day to day reality, it can be done and is enjoyable. <br />
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My husband and I attended the 2016 OCEAN Homeschool State Convention this year in Portland. It was the breath of fresh air we needed. We were reminded of why we set out on this adventure. Yes, it's hard, but it is good. Home schooling is good, but hard, as Todd Wilson reminded us.<br />
<br />
I attended this conference when I first started home schooling about 12 years ago. I was completely overwhelmed and had no idea where to start and was amazed at all the curriculum and teaching styles out there....not to mention....People....lots of people. <br />
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However, my conference experience this year was awesome. My husband and I were encouraged to be a team and work together at this endeavor. We were given all sorts of tools for our box of home schooling. It was worth the time, money and effort to get up to Portland for two days of encouragement. I only wish I could spread it around throughout the year...so we purchased the entire session here: <a href="http://alliancerecordings.com/">http://alliancerecordings.com/</a><br />
Dads, if you've never been, go! Support your wife and be an encouragement to her and play on the same team. <br />
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Playing on the same team, you say? Here's some idea's:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-mnulPETAy4fFFPd0CTmbdO0VW8x0w0CwcjjvPT3xvqheBl1i_4qr5k8hTC8_3gGhAIv9F3iTicagfFDKSnfh-_n5-h7_ZeDufK9g4VCt1OeuA2zM-JX6kMq7OiKslJEQ65AxGQB2EA/s1600/dryice+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-mnulPETAy4fFFPd0CTmbdO0VW8x0w0CwcjjvPT3xvqheBl1i_4qr5k8hTC8_3gGhAIv9F3iTicagfFDKSnfh-_n5-h7_ZeDufK9g4VCt1OeuA2zM-JX6kMq7OiKslJEQ65AxGQB2EA/s320/dryice+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chemistry Class 101 with Daddy in the Kitchen</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hUJEEN99gQphvnhhggle4dqOPvoyYYlq-2VcNqoVWY12Vk4C9iBhPpI7bXrWsqxGGFbU2hlsky8z2sTpY1WCttOi5ZeBG9LDOuFjChdDOFuARF7gyUTrPbdtw_ORnqXLlIGVK_wBTiw/s1600/dryice+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hUJEEN99gQphvnhhggle4dqOPvoyYYlq-2VcNqoVWY12Vk4C9iBhPpI7bXrWsqxGGFbU2hlsky8z2sTpY1WCttOi5ZeBG9LDOuFjChdDOFuARF7gyUTrPbdtw_ORnqXLlIGVK_wBTiw/s320/dryice+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep, He's still got the same sparkle in his eye...19 years and counting!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JaCngTUJ1ANJpiCi9XCIUwGPZPf9nYFBYodn6mheXx3F0nU7oXjmtBaLu4wXbZTK5905PjbDtRWS8-712vX_REd3gQbcBfnNGnUU3FTLFF8cJwBEgZGD_DRRL-9HZVeNBto8vfnVrs4/s1600/dryice+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JaCngTUJ1ANJpiCi9XCIUwGPZPf9nYFBYodn6mheXx3F0nU7oXjmtBaLu4wXbZTK5905PjbDtRWS8-712vX_REd3gQbcBfnNGnUU3FTLFF8cJwBEgZGD_DRRL-9HZVeNBto8vfnVrs4/s320/dryice+046.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a great place to stow away...</td></tr>
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My oldest son had a volunteer to be the weight in his "practice backpacking" venture. Everyone in the family needs to have a team mentality to win at this adventure in homeschooling. It's fun, enjoyable, and hard, yes, but worth it! <br />
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GO TEAM HOME SCHOOL!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-37185314224386352262016-07-21T14:07:00.000-08:002016-07-21T14:07:21.239-08:00God's Mercies in Daily Happenings<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYII-bJs51PDpKROU7A16Qh0LTPxH_K4Bzd6P8GpDzKzQ8kpCJuSJBBdC2fl1T2a44T1U-4oknyOo87nZ1wr9IgA6MT7B-i5UhFGpHfVz1sE7Uei9vutS9fzlYr6HYsGlNHdsnFQiBRJw/s1600/dryice+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYII-bJs51PDpKROU7A16Qh0LTPxH_K4Bzd6P8GpDzKzQ8kpCJuSJBBdC2fl1T2a44T1U-4oknyOo87nZ1wr9IgA6MT7B-i5UhFGpHfVz1sE7Uei9vutS9fzlYr6HYsGlNHdsnFQiBRJw/s320/dryice+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Underground Wasp Nest </td></tr>
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One of our children was recently stung by a wasp...actually, he was stung 3 separate times within a week's time. This poor child has had more bee stings in his short six years of life than most people have been stung in their entire life. That's another Alaskan adventure story for another day...<br />
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So back to the present...or at least a few days ago to be more precise.... my oldest son dug up this underground nest after the bees had been poisoned with gas. WOW! We had no idea how large this wasp nest was. We had hung a hammock not 2 feet away from the nest and the three small children had enjoyed many a lively swing; laughing and tipping upside down there. To think of the danger that lay so close by... my little boy who was mad about getting stung, soon realized how much to be thankful for. <br />
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I was thinking how we adults react in much the same way...get mad or upset and then get thankful. I'm not saying we should like getting stung by a bee. I'm just saying when things don't go our way or we experience suffering, pain, or trials we often don't realize just how bad it could've been...like my sister-in-law always says, "It could be worse." <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTtmzTAqHb7w7Ki3pNWJ0aDWAC9_mPnGXOzDwgxh9C9lPCZxBUqw30MjrKJONZNu89sWZ2uKW7bndPUHfFwf4eMAzFBuOO_sf1BU035aojw0OEYVIMCnk8Qo7ckEPmEiOKUBvB1fLaKn8/s1600/dryice+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTtmzTAqHb7w7Ki3pNWJ0aDWAC9_mPnGXOzDwgxh9C9lPCZxBUqw30MjrKJONZNu89sWZ2uKW7bndPUHfFwf4eMAzFBuOO_sf1BU035aojw0OEYVIMCnk8Qo7ckEPmEiOKUBvB1fLaKn8/s320/dryice+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Experimenting with dry ice in the chemistry lab aka Kitchen</td></tr>
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Here's a fun photo I took of my guys calculating the time it took for various pieces of dry ice to melt in various sizes of containers...Yes, we're always taking advantage of any moment of any given day to learn something new but don't necessarily call it "school."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJkjfo1m_WuPV6et2koApkq3YlXCYE8PbPQngc_KntolZa356vSDfYnCwpDOAAro5fqjAJN4tcu8Mg4acEwoXBq8NUnH5p91n-_7IlfeT8Er3HQ_YeomUE1HImc5OItq7mlA0KIc306c/s1600/dryice+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJkjfo1m_WuPV6et2koApkq3YlXCYE8PbPQngc_KntolZa356vSDfYnCwpDOAAro5fqjAJN4tcu8Mg4acEwoXBq8NUnH5p91n-_7IlfeT8Er3HQ_YeomUE1HImc5OItq7mlA0KIc306c/s320/dryice+046.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going for a hike with big brother...</td></tr>
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My older kids are preparing to go on a lengthy backpacking trip...their little sister volunteered for the job of extra weight...for practice. So cute and precious to me, as a Mother, to see my 17-year old son enjoy his siblings in this way. He always has time for them...even in the previous wasp nest picture, he took the time to show them the queen and point out the individual cells, eggs, and larvae stages.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNln5M3x4GtVoQJECH9NyvobRQnQAXBtxBb68AH088IzdR7y2poK4fhCk76eelTTZTENTnjEyQYEv8Y1R4bHzMgQ7a-7U94I1cVxzm0YNn7r6e67XdtMNKJKB3cXMXY0QRbpph7se1Z4/s1600/dryice+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNln5M3x4GtVoQJECH9NyvobRQnQAXBtxBb68AH088IzdR7y2poK4fhCk76eelTTZTENTnjEyQYEv8Y1R4bHzMgQ7a-7U94I1cVxzm0YNn7r6e67XdtMNKJKB3cXMXY0QRbpph7se1Z4/s320/dryice+055.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teaching Baby the art of cleaning up after oneself...</td></tr>
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Somehow he managed to open a small Ziploc bag of cheerios in one fell swoop...I had no idea so many cheerios could fit in that little bag!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-5584373239882593192016-07-09T15:27:00.003-08:002016-07-09T15:27:49.063-08:00God's Grace has Always been in Place<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkVarecbHDDJ47W2ku7UkXthdUf8RACOn_HSG5IobkV9oj8Onfg__zZ7snACZG8TZMvV1KGjdfkUo5CdOwxJKTu4GyAbGS4ucstbthyphenhyphenUPnKamtYEst_v-6R7Uw_hyphenhyphenlqlt4X39HQK2qpA/s1600/Timothy+teaching+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkVarecbHDDJ47W2ku7UkXthdUf8RACOn_HSG5IobkV9oj8Onfg__zZ7snACZG8TZMvV1KGjdfkUo5CdOwxJKTu4GyAbGS4ucstbthyphenhyphenUPnKamtYEst_v-6R7Uw_hyphenhyphenlqlt4X39HQK2qpA/s320/Timothy+teaching+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A peppermint rose</td></tr>
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Just teasing...perhaps there is a peppermint rose somewhere but this is just a rose that my daughter swiped with a brush dipped in white paint. For a minute, though, I stood open mouthed; thinking that my rose bush had actually produced a rebel rose...or an incredible rose defying blossom. I suppose that would be like saying the same thing twice.. <br />
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Well I had quite a laugh over that, but it did get me thinking about another analogy. Real versus fake. Because we're people we struggle with this whole just be yourself or be someone I think you'll like thing. We want acceptance, we need validation, encouragement, and to belong. <br />
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So we have grandiose ways of acknowledging our accomplishment's, our struggles, our triumphs, our victories, our desires, hopes, and dreams. It's all part of being a human. People have been doing it thousands of years in every culture. Facebook and blogging aren't really new, just a different twist. <br />
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So in our efforts to communicate one to another do you ever wonder why we choose to communicate the things we do? What's important to me may not be important to you or vice versa. We politely listen one to another...but there's only so much time and we each only live a certain number of days. <br />
We can only read so many books and learn so many things. I hope that I put my time and effort into what really matters. I don't want to be a painted rose. I want to be real and smell nice while I do. I'd like to be polite, but truthful. I'd like to share my thoughts with those who care and not with those who don't. When I started this blog, it was for the purpose of sharing with you about life in Alaska. Then, it morphed into a wild ride down to Oregon and back up to Alaska and down to Oregon again sort of blog. Now, more than a month has gone by since I last wrote...hmmmm <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bicycle built for two...</td></tr>
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We recently purchased this tandem bike from our neighbors garage sale. What a bargain! I've always wanted a bike like this. Think of the romantic places we could adventure on this one...oh, wait, my husband is still recovering from his broken ankle and we have a leaky tire...Nothing that can't be fixed with time and money.<br />
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BUT, I bet you couldn't tell that from the picture and the smiles on our faces? It's a lot like what we Christians present to the world and one another every Sunday. Behind every face is a real human soul. Alive, with real hurts and real wounds. We gather together to worship and pray and read God's word. Sometimes we share our trials and struggles, and sometimes we're quiet. But, let's be real and unpainted. We don't have to pretend to have it all together because no one does. It's time to let the facades down and serve one another in love, broken as we are, bleeding as we are, and healing as we are. God only needs one yielded and obedient heart and the rest will follow.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-2963245050607445682016-06-01T21:12:00.000-08:002016-06-01T21:12:01.193-08:00Schoolhouse Happenings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Things other than paint have been stirring in "The Ole Orchard Schoolhouse...."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wrapping up a grammar/writing class in time for summer break...</td></tr>
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We've had several families join in a weekly class here. Taught by a wonderful and dear friend, my children have learned a lot and I've been so encouraged to see their growth. With my kids permission, I'd like to post some of their work.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjyLZEiXscT1LPJw-JAGSVnLc4Eodlre88wYZ0zA1o_sryF8WOc4Vvh6GE0vgGcUrckw3VUz-3k771k9BhFFxOYldUGl6MMYpzoX8KCMFKqEDc9n3XIAnYqdrajq6IMSh3svXtWCMBOs/s1600/6%257E1%257E2016+060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjyLZEiXscT1LPJw-JAGSVnLc4Eodlre88wYZ0zA1o_sryF8WOc4Vvh6GE0vgGcUrckw3VUz-3k771k9BhFFxOYldUGl6MMYpzoX8KCMFKqEDc9n3XIAnYqdrajq6IMSh3svXtWCMBOs/s320/6%257E1%257E2016+060.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying a new found Malaysian friend the same age as you are...</td></tr>
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We had a wonderful celebration last Sunday with our friends from Malaysia. Their families flew over to witness them graduate from Linfield College. Our children thoroughly enjoyed the cross cultural experience and look forward to life long friendships with these families.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5xtJTjKGlnP26gtTfObaPLyzTSfjSfRrisy_wngTnlKyJINDj79yv6habxGlSqXxeS21E1-jQCRL_a1ydYvsaJN13AkGItZNREMdgcUpKGrs4xuduOdojCbJYhrwtdxh9L4mkpVTquA/s1600/6%257E1%257E2016+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5xtJTjKGlnP26gtTfObaPLyzTSfjSfRrisy_wngTnlKyJINDj79yv6habxGlSqXxeS21E1-jQCRL_a1ydYvsaJN13AkGItZNREMdgcUpKGrs4xuduOdojCbJYhrwtdxh9L4mkpVTquA/s320/6%257E1%257E2016+064.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and Linfield Graduate Daughter enjoying an after grad celebration...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBG6huksN-cE_r1tO4qv4BjzNa9tmbFQkCnMDrMatxRGtKgf0e5iytKn7MCnjX1zt6AqAOBoVkK2rnEc_z1HVqF303i35TBPeP0MFgeSqmYugpfUjrbE4uOFxpi8UXNJ7hidP2VMBj-YA/s1600/6%257E1%257E2016+065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBG6huksN-cE_r1tO4qv4BjzNa9tmbFQkCnMDrMatxRGtKgf0e5iytKn7MCnjX1zt6AqAOBoVkK2rnEc_z1HVqF303i35TBPeP0MFgeSqmYugpfUjrbE4uOFxpi8UXNJ7hidP2VMBj-YA/s320/6%257E1%257E2016+065.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying our friends and family</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcj6P9oflmXO1hZu3FU_XhV3NQaM3yz3r-BmSNLaiKBK3truPY-nx3X9oaE_E-3Hhkzk475tPHi-8yZ5nG46Z206GaHsGtRv85BbsmBu6Vjz9BcfAjXnNAxJXUrLmYzdUcgwiJhETyqxo/s1600/6%257E1%257E2016+066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcj6P9oflmXO1hZu3FU_XhV3NQaM3yz3r-BmSNLaiKBK3truPY-nx3X9oaE_E-3Hhkzk475tPHi-8yZ5nG46Z206GaHsGtRv85BbsmBu6Vjz9BcfAjXnNAxJXUrLmYzdUcgwiJhETyqxo/s320/6%257E1%257E2016+066.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating our little one's 1st Birthday!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_gsDnxl3enB-gh3T8Yhcna2ZavRIUJISFQIVQQTuBnQ13145hbTNE4dvRwEC7O_fBZVEgv7awZaZZv1Wudk2E53Z2EGG_jB-l662MMU5z2tu2eyd1ySvHHmn_n2Wf2EGh6AXbdfzUsM/s1600/6%257E1%257E2016+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_gsDnxl3enB-gh3T8Yhcna2ZavRIUJISFQIVQQTuBnQ13145hbTNE4dvRwEC7O_fBZVEgv7awZaZZv1Wudk2E53Z2EGG_jB-l662MMU5z2tu2eyd1ySvHHmn_n2Wf2EGh6AXbdfzUsM/s320/6%257E1%257E2016+073.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating with our Linfield College Graduate "Friendship Student"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioT1JBG_KzB5otsFJI3PjlkbojoCwMimeniPu4ZeAMxBHg_wdAe50k8ZqzBAg3ghopKsuAaHSzsGlH2S_m7MClgIxxy5N7MR-H2guJQ7teKYfEiQNMGtBILAKHLhww_CNMLhf40QTVmGs/s1600/6%257E1%257E2016+098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioT1JBG_KzB5otsFJI3PjlkbojoCwMimeniPu4ZeAMxBHg_wdAe50k8ZqzBAg3ghopKsuAaHSzsGlH2S_m7MClgIxxy5N7MR-H2guJQ7teKYfEiQNMGtBILAKHLhww_CNMLhf40QTVmGs/s320/6%257E1%257E2016+098.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom's celebrating together a momentous occasion for both of us..</td></tr>
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It was a very memorable day for me on so many levels....to get to meet the Mother and brother of our Malaysian friend was such an honor, as well as his girlfriends parents. We spent the afternoon and evening visiting, eating, playing games, shooting a B-bee gun, roasting a marshmallow over an open fire and just sharing our lives with one another. Celebrating life and enjoying these "firsts" together was so much fun for everyone and a real honor for us. <br />
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As I celebrated the 1st birthday of my baby son, our honored Mother guest celebrated her eldest son's graduation. We watched, together, our American and Malaysian 17 year old sons enjoy one another's company; laughing and talking and playing games. It was all such a beautiful mix of love and laughter and new found friendships. <br />
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The world really isn't such a big place. Smiles and respect. Words of encouragement and peace can span any ocean, any language and any soul. <br />
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We are so thankful for the people that God brings into our lives. We are so thankful to have an old schoolhouse and gym in which to celebrate birthdays and graduations and classes and sports nights and social gatherings. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-58243167574669704992016-05-23T05:13:00.000-08:002016-05-23T05:13:45.155-08:00Tilling the Garden Plot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ooops...probably should get this entry posted before May is over...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Uncle brought his tractor to do the dirty work...</td></tr>
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This area being used for the garden used to be where the old Orchard School's swing set and playground stood.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perched upon an old concrete hunk</td></tr>
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You'd think we could just pick a nice little piece of ground to till up and put a simple garden in... but, no, we found all eight pieces of old sawed off swing set metal encased in concrete buried throughout this little patch....<br />
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It was all fun and games until our little boy ran and jumped on the end of one...yes, another trip to the ER for a super glue fix on the bottom of his foot. All is well, it healed wonderfully and he's as spry as he's always been. (After a week of bandages and hopping around...same exact foot as Daddy's...there was some male bonding going on around here)<br />
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Daddy, on the other hand didn't heal quite so well....he has a boot in place for a few more weeks on his left ankle and speeds around with a pair of crutches. We have had a mix of emotions surrounding this unexpected turn of events in our lives, but altogether it has been a hard good. I just don't know any other way to say it. <br />
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We take for granted that our bodies will always work and do what we want them to do...until now. Healing takes time and it cannot be willed to heal, it just happens slowly.<br />
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So, back to tilling the garden plot....there's a lot of analogy to preparing the hearts of others to receive the gospel. Some seed falls on the rocks, some beside the pathway, some on rocks, some with thorns and yet others fall in the good soil and bring forth "fruit with patience." Check out Luke 8 <br />
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We Christians have a responsibility to respond to the work God is doing in our lives. The whole tilling the soil bit....it doesn't happen easily. Sometimes there are gigantic concrete pilings to dig up, sometimes blackberry roots that keep coming back, morning glory, or whatever the challenges may be but we cannot give up. If we decide to simply throw seeds out on our garden and hope that with the right amount of sun and rain they'll produce, people would think we're crazy.....yes, a few might actually grow and produce but the majority of the seeds would die or be choked out with weeds.<br />
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RESPONSIBILITY....such a big word that holds weight. God holds each of us personally responsible for the choices we make. He also holds parents, churches, and governments responsible for their choices. The law of reaping and sowing does not only apply to gardens......<br />
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How are you tilling and preparing the soil of your own heart? How about the hearts of your children? Are they stone? Collectively, how are churches supporting the work that the Lord Jesus Christ wants to do as He leads them through these last and final hours of history as known to man?<br />
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The last verse of Psalm 31, "Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD." <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7305852913687793284.post-78308478830095979572016-04-25T11:19:00.001-08:002016-04-25T11:19:03.386-08:00Sunny Days and Stormy Days<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-r_bCxeL4CmDY8NUSERus784wdLkwcD9C_cI_wl3EENEVOo5AenBBsS0r3iZ-t_qu-DLMoX1dQeHylDd-6vvpgp4RLzo0V8pThX8allvfJ3A1b-JRsSfE5jEkMTMyF3LANcWNQpWHS5o/s1600/4%257E17%257E2016+136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-r_bCxeL4CmDY8NUSERus784wdLkwcD9C_cI_wl3EENEVOo5AenBBsS0r3iZ-t_qu-DLMoX1dQeHylDd-6vvpgp4RLzo0V8pThX8allvfJ3A1b-JRsSfE5jEkMTMyF3LANcWNQpWHS5o/s320/4%257E17%257E2016+136.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our neighbors place viewed from down in the field of mustard..</td></tr>
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We enjoyed a sunny Sunday afternoon last week strolling with family across the neighbors mustard field, with their permission of course, and down the irrigation ditch to dip our toes and do a little exploring. Going for nature walks are on the top of every member of the family's list of most enjoyable things to do all together....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sporting a freshly picked weed crown....</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A freshly picked bouquet of horsetail....</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carving a rock...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running down the irrigation ditch...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the breeze on her skin....</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dangling our legs and laughing with Daddy....</td></tr>
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Little did we know that less than a week later we would be still laughing with Daddy, but this time with his foot up on ice after a flying leap and block in volleyball... avulsion fracture is the word.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The night it happened...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 days later...</td></tr>
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Feet and ankles are precious..."How beautiful are the feet of those who bring Good News... or bring home the paycheck...." I know we shouldn't be happy that our Daddy can't go to work but we are. What can I say? We love him and are thoroughly enjoying spending time with him at home: bringing him food, ice, books, videos, and hopefully a lot of laughs. <br />
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We could choose to stress at the "Storm" and waste our precious time or simply enjoy our little ones and one another on this "surprise vacation." It's really all in how one looks at life. And, no, it's not just positive thinking... or escaping reality. <br />
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Reality can be grim, but God's truth and glory are powerful. Mercy and grace intermingle. Faith, hope, and love outshines, outlives, and is irrepressible. Try to dampen it and it's glory spreads around the dark edges. <br />
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God has never not taken care of us before and He will not stop now. We can laugh at the future knowing He is fully in control....how refreshing and how exciting all at the same time. You know, it was kind of getting slow around here.....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0