The Country Blossom

Wednesday Thoughts

2012-02-01T14:50:00.001-05:00

I awoke this morning, early as usual, with a headache. I took some ibuprofen and tried to rest a bit. It's a bit better now...but I have still been taking the day slower than usual. It was raining earlier...but now, the sun is shining and we are enjoying a few milder days...temperatures in the 50's.

The children, after a bit of schooling, have been outside playing this afternoon..bike riding, running, laughing, make-believe and more. I have done some different chores around the house, read a bit and done some crocheting...yearning for an afternoon cat-nap.

One of the books I have been soaking in is my copy of The Private World of Tasha Tudor. Look at her kitchen...I **love** it. It's simple and lovely....

Yesterday's baking brought about fresh, warm loaves of bread from the oven. Chris returned home from work in the evening and commented on how wonderful the house smelled when he walked through the door...

At this very moment, I am sitting, indian-style in a soft comfy chair in the living room...typing and listening to a sermon...resting and praying the headache stays away...for tonight, I will be watching friends' 1 yr. old twins overnight and all tomorrow. The last time I watched them...they had trouble sleeping through the night. Chris was such a great help to me...rocking the girls. I am praying that tonight is better!

I have floors to sweep, dishes to finish washing and clean clothes to fold...I need to meander myself that-a-way to get those things done. I'm planning on homemade pizzas for supper tonight...for fun. :) I hope your day is joy-filled. Thanks for stopping by!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Child-like Faith

2012-01-30T08:35:00.000-05:00

Where to begin this post? To exclaim God's goodness (great-ness is a better word) could be one way! How perfectly wonderful and sovereign He is. For He, alone, deserves all the glory. As I walk with Him, reading His Word and staying in prayer...I am continually reminded that Jesus is the author of my faith....He is the perfecter of my faith (Hebrews 12:2). How truly grateful I am for His love and mercy...neither of which I deserve.

The Lord is high above all nations, and His glory above the heavens.

Who is like unto the Lord our God, Who dwelleth on high,

Who humbleth Himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth!

~Psalm 113:4-6

Last week, Xavier and I were working on his language arts. We came to a part where He was to name a singular noun from some sentences on the page. He saw "God" in one of the sentences and used that as his choice. I agreed that it was a singular noun and a correct answer. He stopped me though, and exclaimed, "But mom, He's really three, you know...Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit!". For my 8 year old son to grasp, with his child-like faith, the truth of the trinity blessed my heart. To know that God is **one** but also **three** is something that many people have a hard time understanding. The key is that we don't have to understand everything...we need to have faith enough to trust what God's Word tells us.

It's easy for my mind to be swirling with questions and wanting answers. Although we are to be growing in wisdom and discernment....as Christians we also need to accept that there will be (many) things we don't understand in their entirety. We need to have the faith to know that God is in absolute control and trust that...through everything, the good and especially the bad. My knowledge is so limited...and as my mind has been swirling lately...this verse was laid on my heart:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.

~Proverbs 3:5-6

Glory to God! I may not know it all...but I do know this...Christ and him crucified. And that, He did for those He loved...whom the Father gave Him. Oh, amazing grace....how truly sweet the sound!

The past couple weeks, Chris and I have had a difficult time with the outdoor wood stove. The stove, itself was fine, but the wood was wet (since we hadn't gotten it all split and stacked early enough in the year) and soft pine (trees that someone had cut down and given us to cut up and split). Soft pine does *not* burn well and it being wet didn't help matters. It became exhausting...me going out numerous times during the day to tend the stove (with the fire going out often) and Chris sleeping downstairs and going out to tend to it during the night....all trying to keep the water temp. up which heats our home. We each would get so terribly frustrated and discouraged...thankfully, at alternating times. When one of us was discouraged and grouchy...the other was encouraging and optimistic. Oh, how God knew we needed each other...Chris and me!

Saturday...we were quite determined to get a bunch of wood split and stacked and get it drying out as best as we could. A friend had loaned us his wood splitter...but the motor on it died after the first try with it, previously. Chris's Grandpa gave us his extra one but it needed some work too. Chris found the parts it needed but we had to order them and wait. So Saturday, Chris was using his ax and muscles to split wood...a slow and tiring process, truly. As he is splitting...I kid you not, his ax broke. Oh my....I saw his heart sink low...the sadness and defeat that covered his face made my heart clench. He threw the ax handle down and walked to the side of the wood shed...anger quietly surging through him. I walked up behind him, placing my hand on his shoulder in love...each of us in silent prayer.

He turned and told me he was off to the hardware store to purchase another ax.
Xavier....waiting and watching for daddy to come home...

Wouldn't you know...what we took as frustrating and defeating, God used for our good and benefit. Oh how He works in marvelous ways. Some may call it coincidence...I call it the love of God:

After Chris left our house...he stopped at his parents meat market to have a cup of coffee and relax his frustration (and admittedly, anger) before going in to the hardware store. He was only there a couple of minutes when his Grandpa walked in with a magazine in hand...one from a store about 10 miles away that had just the parts needed for the wood splitter (the one we thought we would have to *wait* on parts for). So, instead of the ax....Chris and his Grandpa drove off, together (Chris, renewed in spirit) for the parts to fix the wood splitter.

The ax broke. If it hadn't...Chris would have been splitting wood by hand (back-breaking, exhausting, slow-going type of work). Chris stopped at the meat market and his Grandpa came in...just in time...with that magazine in hand. They were able to go get the parts needed for the wood splitter...which ended up getting more wood split, in less time, with less back-aching. Coincidence? Not at all....it was providence. God's divine help and goodness.

We split and stacked with a renewed spirit...working, talking, laughing...all with total thankfulness to God for showing us how much we need Him....and how He *does* provide. :) Half the wood shed is full now...the wood stove has been working much better for us and we have been warm in our house.

Madelyn has a snuffly-cold which I seem to have caught. So I am grateful I won't need to make quite as many trips out to the wood stove as I did the past few weeks (I was a lovely sight, most days, I tell you! Chris's up-to-my-knees muck boots, skirt, super-duper large hoody and gloves were my height of fashion the past couple weeks! ;).

Well, I have been working on this post for quite a while this morning...off and on. X is out shoveling snow, Madelyn is making eggs and Jaxson's washing eggs from the chickens (we have 5 dozen in our fridge at the moment!). I need to get moving...laundry and dishes await me...and the children and I need to get working on our schoolwork for the day as well. So to end this post...I'm just going to share some photos from the weekend! :o)

Chris's jeep (that has been such a blessing!)...

I have been crocheting pot holders...

After coming in from checking the wood stove, the other morning, I found my children reading their bibles (filling this mama's heart with **joy**!)...

And one of my snuggle-bunnies...bundled up, cuddled up and snug with his monkey, George...

Our hens have been laying just wonderfully for us now...like I mentioned earlier, we have 5 dozen eggs in the fridge!

Later....reading...

And playing...

Rolls for lunch....

Cloth napkins...folded up and ready for use...

I-Spying...Jaxson and daddy...

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Love is the thing...

2012-01-26T17:47:00.000-05:00

...that enables a woman to sing while she mops up the floor after her husband has walked across it in his barn boots.

~Hoosier Farmer

There is nothing like the feeling of a well-tidied *home*. Notice, I say *home* and not *house*. I do so for a reason, for a home is not one where you can't feel comfortable...where tension fills the air when things always have to be too perfect. A well-tidied house is cold and lonely feeling. A well-tidied home is full of warmth, hospitality, is eye-pleasing and comforting.

What’s more important to a sense of "home" is not perfectly arranged designer pillows, but the comforting arms of a mother or wife who is available and content when her family needs it.

~Life From the Roof

It is my goal, daily, to have a *home* where Chris likes to come back to after a long day at work. He deserves for it to be tidy and nice-smelling...a place where if he *does* bring some mud in with his shoes, he doesn't feel that he will be fussed at. It's simple to clean up and something I can tend to as he rests. Most nights, though, my Christopher doesn't get much rest time...between tending the wood-stove and other things that need his attention (here and helping others)...I want him to *know* that home is his sanctuary...a peaceful, restful place away from it all.

A peek in the bathroom...

And the kitchen...

The blue little caddy was a thrift store find! I love it with that chicken wire. I need to sand it and repaint it (I'm thinking black...with roughed edges for a rustic look)...

This morning we had some freezing rain outside. Chris was out at the wood stove and I went out to see if he needed a hand. I noticed the outside steps were quite slippy (especially for me, as my legs are still terribly sore from my workout yesterday morning). The boys were in charge of the goats and chickens today so I told them to be very careful on their way down the outside steps and on the driveway...as it was icy. Those smart guys of mine thought it best to secure their go-kart helmets to their heads...just in case they fell. It may seem silly...but I must admit, it gave me a sense of comfort! I just love these fellas...

Working on a bit of school on a cold, wet, glad-to-be-inside type of day...

Chris will be home from work soon. Although *you* didn't know it, I stopped mid-post to go mix up rolls to rise and also to tend the wood stove. I will get supper started and look forward to my sweet-heart coming home. Warm wishes for an enjoyable evening and also, for the weekend ahead. :)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

~ A Bit of This & That~

2012-01-25T08:13:00.000-05:00

Good morning! I am quite chipper today...since I am an early bird (usually up around 4:30am, naturally...which to some may seem like a curse, but to me is a few hours of enjoyable quiet) I decided to start working out with a cardio video. I began today (already knowing I am out of shape...but realizing how *much* so as I got tired during the warm-up!) and whew! I feel great...except the fact that my legs feel like spaghetti noodles! ;) After the cool down (which I have truly decided is my favorite part of the whole routine) I jumped in the shower. Now, here I sit in my denim skirt and organish-pink colored top and my cozy slippers...feeling rejuvenated and ready to start the day! The children are waking up slowly but surely...getting ready to start their chores and have some tummy-filling breakfast.

This will be a quick-sort-of post...as I am ready to tackle schooling and housework. Later, my nephew is coming over to play for a bit...which the children look forward to. I have crocheting to do, as Jaxson has his request in for a pair of slippers now. (I finished Chris's slippers the other night and they fit him to a *T*!) As well as spending time in my Bible daily, I am also in the midst of reading THIS book from Kim Riddlebarger. So there are many things to fill my day...thus the reason for a quicker-sort-of post (although, as chatty as I seem to be, it's not as *quick* as I intended!).

Did you know that Huckleberry Fin lives at my house? Yup, he does. He's a grand fella, I tell you! I know, you wish he lived at *your* house...

Around the house the past few days...

Candles lit in the kitchen...

And the dining room...

I was cleaning this past Saturday (like I posted photos of HERE) and moved a through things around and did a little organizing in the schoolroom. A comfy spot to read...

One of the *many* bookshelves...

The chore chart (which I made and posted about HERE)...

I've been baking and cooking each day (I know what you may be thinking...doesn't match with my exercise plan, does it?). Although these soft pretzels don't look exactly pretty...they did taste good! You can find the recipe for them HERE...

Hashbrown casserole (to go along with eggs for supper one evening)...

And finally, before I go...a picture of my Christopher (He makes my heart go pitter-pat...those soft, green eyes of his hold so much warmth and love. He wraps me in them daily. I think if it were possible for a person to melt, I would be a puddle everytime he looked at me.) and me...

Okay...I really must go...a day to be lived awaits me!
You have a *great* Wednesday!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Hooray! Eloise turns ONE today!

2012-01-23T06:14:00.000-05:00

Exactly one year ago today, God blessed our family with our first niece! Oh, how joy-filled this past year has been! If you have visited me here these past 365 days, you have seen how much we all just love this little girl! I can hardly believe how quickly the time has flown by...bittersweet, truly.

Eloise had a *Minnie Mouse* themed birthday party. My sister did such a wonderful job with everything! Everyone in attendance had a great time...Eloise (aka: Minnie Mouse) was super-cute in everything she did. She seemed *very* happy that many of the people she loved most were all in the same room! I will admit, I took a lot of photos...I am posting some of them (but there were many more!)...

Xavier and Eloise...

The slippers I made for El fit her (to my absolute delight) perfectly!

My sister got my children these funny glasses...

Eloise was trying to figure out *who* it was behind those glasses...

Peek! Well, hello there, Madelyn!

Who is behind these glasses? Why, it's Jaxson!

Eloise takes a turn!

Oh how El loves Madelyn...and the feeling is completely mutual! Maddy can really get her giggling!

Time for a break from all the fun...it's time to eat some supper!

Daddy reading to Jaxson...

Cory and Devon served up a delicious supper of hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, macaroni salad, baked beans and carrots! Everyone got their fill and then it was time for presents!

She sure loved that wrapping paper (as most babies do!)...

She really enjoyed pulling the paper off and then putting it *in* something...specifically a gift bag that you will see she fell in love with, a few photos down. Look at my sister in this photo, below. Isn't she just beautiful?

This gift bag caught Eloise's eye and she loved putting things in it and carrying it around!

The last gift of the night was from Grammie and Pop-Pop (Devon and my parents). It was a **baby**. Eloise fell immediately in love and Mama couldn't get the baby out of the box fast enough!

She ran around the room showing everyone her baby!

It's almost time for cake...but first, Eloise wants to feed her baby!

Time to blow out the candle (with just a wee bit of help from Mama)!

Devon made El a super-healthy carrot cake to enjoy...and she truly did enjoy it! She was very neat about it though, much to our disappointment (well, not complete disappointment...she was super-cute...messy or not!)

Clomping around in her snow boots, baby-in-hand...

Winding down for the night...sitting with Madelyn...

What an absolutely wonderful evening it was! Everyone laughed and enjoyed watching Eloise be her sweet self all night. I know my sister is going to post photos of her own this morning (I just rise from slumber earlier than she does). I hope you will pop over and see her pictures HERE!

We thank God for the wonderful gift of Eloise. None of us could imagine our lives without the *sparkle* that is her.

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Warmth

2012-01-21T10:15:00.000-05:00

On a very cold, snowy, wintry morning...a post title, like the one above, seems necessary! Just the word "warmth" gives a cozy, snuggled sort of feeling, doesn't it? How is the weather in your neck of the woods?

Yesterday, I did some rearranging. I am pleased with how it turned out. It's just simple, really...but I still wanted to share it. :) The first few photos show the corner of my dining room in the day...

And in the evening...

While I was busy cleaning...Xavier did some of his reading for school (not his favorite thing to do...but he did it yesterday *without* complaint!)...

After schooling, housework and lunch...we headed into my parent's garage because this sweetie-pie (my beautiful niece) came to town...

Have I told you that she turns **one** on Monday!? Oh my, how quickly the past year has gone by! I truly can't imagine what we all did before Eloise was part of our lives! I just can't imagine our family any other way!

In my mom's office, there were little pieces of paper from the paper-shredder on the floor. Eloise decided they needed to be picked up. She found an empty box and started cleaning up...a girl on a mission!

She enjoyed carrying her little box around too!

Auntie Katy kept taking pictures *of* and giggling *at* the-super-cleaner-upper...and this was Eloise's reaction to it...

Eloise and *my* baby, Jaxson...

Madelyn holding El...

Eloise loves the dancing chicken...

She also loves this new puzzle Grammie brought...

Xavier, Eloise and Madelyn...

We had such a nice visit with my sister and Eloise. To our excitement, we get to see them tomorrow too! Since Monday is El's first birthday, they are celebrating with a small party at their home, tomorrow evening. It's such a treat to see Eloise twice in one week! Truly, watch THIS short little video of her and you will understand what a joy she is to be around!

This morning, I crocheted Eloise a pair of slippers! I can't wait to take them tomorrow! I hope they fit her well!

With all this snow outside and no plans to go anywhere...my day will be enjoyed here at home. I'll light candles, do housework, continue cleaning out/organizing the schoolroom, work on some knitting and maybe some reading too! With such cold temps....I am encouraged to do a bit of baking as well. We will see what the day holds! I hope you are staying warm (or for my friends who are in the midst of their summer, I hope you are staying cool!) today! Have a great weekend! Thanks for visiting me here!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Yarn Projects

2012-01-20T08:22:00.001-05:00

Although I am an avid knitter...I have been trying my hand at some crocheting (like I mentioned HERE). Crocheting items is much quicker than knitting them (although I really like the look of most knitted items better). Xavier, yesterday morning, had expressed how much he would like a pair of slippers...so I found a pattern and made him a pair. He really likes them (and now the rest of the family has put in their requests as well!).

His feet fit in them perfectly...keeping those footsies snug and warm...

I also tried my hand at a potholder that I mentioned I had wanted to make in THIS post. I found a pattern for it HERE and it turned out wonderfully! I would like to make a few *bigger* ones though!

Here are some other patterns (knitting and crochet) that I would like to try soon...

Hobo Bag

Tawashi Flower

Zip-Up the Back Hoodie

A look at *one* of my knitting/crochet project baskets...

It's cold in Western PA, very cold. It's definitely normal for this time of year...but keeps Chris and I busy out at the wood stove. Inside, drastic temperatures calls for drastic measures...

Our front room (that I hope to turn into a regular front porch, one day) has older windows. They are very drafty. This sends cold breezes of air through the house sometimes. So, despite the unattractive-ness of it, Chris hung a fleece sheet between the front room and the dining room...it helps a lot! If you walk *into* the schoolroom, the temperature difference is extremely noticeable! I suppose you just have to do what works! :)

Today, the children and I will tackle our usual tasks and may also do some re-arranging/re-organizing of some bookshelves....we'll see! I know I am going to be working on my yarn projects today too! I hope your day is *great*!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Warm Thoughts on a Blustery Cold Day

2012-01-18T20:08:00.000-05:00

Today was grocery day...a busier day for the children and I. Menu-making, grocery list making, meat market list making, doing the actual shopping (plus stopping along the way to pick up chicken feed), schooling, housework and wood-stove tending has kept me busy! During times of rest, I spent time on knitting and crochet projects, as I like to switch back and forth between them. One of my crochet projects has been to make some new dish cloths for our home. One reason I prefer to crochet dish cloths than knit them is because it is so (so, so) much quicker! I like making them with simple double crochets (sometimes I use a double half crochet stitch instead). The *new* cloths are washed and ready for use... ready and waiting along some of my knitted dish cloths!

Currently, (although I don't have a photo of it) I am crocheting a pot holder. My sister-in-love has a few of them that her grandmother made her. They are thick and beautiful. I looked for a pattern and found one HERE. I'm hoping it turns out well! It seems easy enough!

Supper (a stomach-filling, family favorite: hamburger stroganoff over homemade noodles and green beans...and as a treat ~ rootbeer floats!) is over and the evening is winding down now. The hum of the warm air being pushed in by the wood stove is my background noise. I've done most of the supper dishes, but there are still some waiting to be scrubbed in the warm soapy water...they'll just have to keep waiting, as I am in no big rush to finish them! ;)

The whole life of a Christian should be nothing but praises and thanks to God; we should neither eat nor sleep, but eat to God and sleep to God and work to God and talk to God, do all to His glory and praise.

~Richard Sibbes

As I continue in my daily reading of the Bible and growing, growing, growing in wisdom and knowledge (oh, I still have soo far to go though) my mind is a whirl of activity...constantly praying...words of praise and thanksgiving to the Most High, inter-mixed with realizations of when I have sinned...expressing my sorrow and repentence to Him. He is so worthy....so *very* worthy of all our praise. I desire to know Him more (and more and more). I desire to share Him with others...do you? If so...HERE is the right way to do it! Sinners need to be aware of why they need a Savior.

Christ will be master of the heart, and sin must be mortified. If your life is unholy, then your heart is unchanged, and you are an unsaved person. The Savior will sanctify His people, renew them, give them a hatred of sin, and a love of holiness. The grace that does not make a man better than others is a worthless counterfeit. Christ saves His people, not IN their sins, but FROM their sins. Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord.

~Charles Spurgeon

Sometimes it seems that the American church’s highest value is what Francis Schaeffer called “personal peace and affluence.” We want to be accepted. We don’t want to be controversial. Above all, we don’t want to suffer. It is time for Christ-followers to stand up and say, “We must do what is right, regardless of the consequences.” “But Peter and the apostles answered, ‘We must obey God rather than men’” (Acts. 5:29).

~Randy Alcorn

As I sit here and type, I am wrapped, snug and cozy-warm in an afghan...listening to a sermon. The children are watching a movie...winding down before bed-time. Chris is at bible study with good friends of ours. After wrapping up this post...I'll spend the rest of my evening in my Bible and working on my yarn-projects. My eyes are terribly tired though...so I see me heading to bed in the near future! To be honest...I am truly fighting my eyes to stay open and stay focused! I am one exhausted mama!

Here are a few photos from around my home lately...nothing overly exciting...but a window into my life, none-the-less! :)

Madelyn helping Jaxson with his schoolwork...

Supper, cooking away one evening...

A couple corners in my simple kitchen...

May your days be joy-filled...even in the difficult trials that come upon you. Joy is not dependent upon circumstances...but rather on a heart in love with the Creator. :)
Thank-you for coming by!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

January...

2012-01-16T16:43:00.000-05:00

After many *unusually* mild days (weeks, actually) we have now been hit with *cold* weather...so much so that the outdoor wood stove (as well as Chris and myself) has been working extra hard. It can be exhausting, keeping up with it (as staying inside, warm and snug is *much* more appealing on days of freezing temperatures)...but it's worth it. It saves us so much money each month...as our gas bill is not nearly as high as it once was!

When time allows (although schooling and housework keep me quite busy) along with reading my Bible (truly, the best Bible I have ever owned...fantastic, really!)...I have also been working on a knitting project and crocheting dish cloths...

The boys received Lego kits as gifts, this year, from family. Chris and I spent time, last evening, helping them put them together (although they didn't need much help at all!)...

Xavier put together *many* fun little vehicles...a plane, a helicopter and a car (one of the cars below was one Jaxson built)...

I also worked on school plans for this week. If you, perhaps, are new to my blog...let me share with you something that will become apparent in most of my writings...I am a *huge* homeschooling advocate! It is a passion of mine, truly (actually...*family* is my passion...and how to care for, love and nurture them properly. Homeschooling is woven right into that!). :) If it may be something you are interested in...I am happy to help in any way I can! Blogger has added a feature that I am now using on my blog...when you leave a comment, I can reply directly *to* your comment, right in the thread....rather than at the bottom of all the comments! You may also feel free to email me (link in the left sidebar), as I love hearing from you!

The children got a new game to play!

'Round about here at home...

Today, the children and I watched the daughter and toddler twins of friends of ours. It was a busy, busy day! It's now nearing evening and the children are working on schoolwork and I am getting ready to put supper in the oven (stuffed chicken breasts). After a busy day of chasing babies and lots of housework...I am plum tuckered out. :) I am hoping, after supper is finished and cleaned up, to enjoy some time in God's Word and then head to bed early!

Thank you, everyone, for your kind thoughts, prayers and encouraging words for Xavier. His eye has healed nicely and he's pretty much back to "normal". God has truly created the eye to be a magnificent thing...not only the marvelous functions that it does...but also the way it heals so quickly! Such a blessing considering how important our eyes are! :)

I gotta get supper in the oven! Have a great evening!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

A Bit of a Boo-Boo

2012-01-12T18:23:00.001-05:00

Any paper items we have that need to be disposed of, we burn....including boxes. The children love to raid the pile of *items-to-burn* and use scissors, yarn, tape and markers to make things for themselves....helmets, swords, shields etc. This afternoon, Xavier was doing just that. During his bit of crafting, somehow his scissors met up with his eye.

After calling the eye doctor (who, thankfully could get us right in), we found that he scratched his cornea. After putting drops in his eyes, the eye doctor made him this patch (we went to see Chris and my parents at my dad's garage afterwards and my mom drew the picture on it!). He has to wear it all tonight and tomorrow until we go in to the eye doctor's office again to check it. It *should* (thankfully) heal completely!

I tell him he's my little pirate for a day! ;) He's a bit embarrassed that he cut his own eye with scissors...but I told him accidents happen. This helps all of my children to understand why I tell them to *be careful* whenever they are using scissors or knives.

He is now resting comfortably in a chair in the living room...watching a movie (Heidi) with his brother and sister...

When I was young, one of my nicknames (before it became *cool*) was Boo-Boo...given by my aunt...I believe because I was a surprise pregnancy for my parents and then decided to enter the world 2 weeks later than expected! ;) I am thinking this nickname just may need to pass on to my eldest son...! I am grateful to God that X's injury is not more serious than it could have been. His vision is off a smidge...but like I said earlier, it should heal just fine. He has a bit of pain...but thankfully, not too bad. The eye doctor was surprised that X wasn't crying out in pain while at the dr's office!
All praise be to God...Almighty Healer, Comforter, & Protector!

Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Tho the night deepens and tempests are wild;
Still I can trust Him-- I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me and I am His child.

Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort and there I am blest.

Under His wings, O what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide till life's trials are o'er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me,
Resting in Jesus I'm safe evermore.

Under His wings, under His wings,
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings, my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
—William O. Cushing

Please, keep my niece in your prayers as well....you can read why HERE.
Thank you!
Warm wishes for your weekend ahead!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Baking, Chores, Schooling & Skyping...

2012-01-11T19:50:00.000-05:00

Our days have been continuing on...still mild outside (cold enough to keep the wood stove going...but not cold enough for snow) for this time in January (compared to other years). The children and I spend our days schooling, baking, doing chores around the house (the chore chart I posted about HERE is working really well!) and also enjoying free time. Most often you will find me with either my Bible or knitting in hand during that *free* time. The children enjoy reading, playing games, coloring and on nicer days ~ playing outside!

Our hens have been laying for us...each and every one of them isn't laying every day...but we are consistently getting some eggs (which is better than nothing! ;) We're not sure exactly *why* these girls took longer than our last set of chickens to start laying eggs...but hopefully when spring/summer arrives again....they will be laying in *full* swing! :)

Xavier finishing up some schoolwork the other day...

Madelyn ~ coloring...

Jaxson ~ diving into a *Highlights* magazine (my children love the Timbertoes comics in them)...

Mad and Jax, playing a game together...

Laundry keeps me busy...*daily*...

The basketball court, basically in our backyard, that belongs to our neighbors (who most generously permit and kindly even encourage us to use it) even has lights! The children enjoyed riding their bikes around for a bit one night...

Today, my sister called us and suggested we tried to Skype. I have heard of this before...but never tried it. We both signed up and in no time at all, we had video up...but we both had some trouble trying to make our microphones and speakers on the right settings...finally, though, we were able to get everything set up correctly. We had a lot of fun chatting back and forth, for a bit, with my sister and Eloise!

After Chris got home from work, we Skyped (is that the right word?) again so that he could see the Squeezle! He enjoyed it too! Such a neat invention that is! We chit-chatted for a bit and then said our good-byes so we could have some supper.

Chris hasn't been feeling well the past few days...so he missed his first men's bible study with some good friends of ours tonight. He was bummed but thought it was best if he just stayed home and rested for the evening. I'm disappointed *for* him as I know he was looking forward to going...but at the same time, I love having him home with me, so I am glad he is here with us too.

I need to get the supper dishes washed and cleaned up and get ready for bed. I am battling a bit of a cold (which seems to be worse in the morning and at night) and haven't been sleeping too well...so I am definitely looking forward to heading to sleep soon!
Thank you for visiting. I truly appreciate it! Enjoy the rest of your week! :)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Moments at Home

2012-01-09T06:24:00.000-05:00

The snow that we had HERE is now gone. Temperatures, although still cold, are considerably mild for this area, this time of year! I have even had clothes drying out on the line!

The children have enjoyed time outside this weekend, riding the go-karts.

Out of gas, X sits in the go-kart waiting for a fill-up!

The yard is a bit torn up (only a smidge ;)...

The way we heat our home...

Jaxson...

Madelyn, going to get the mail...

The chickens are laying well for us (finally) and are enjoying the sunshine (and lack of snow)...

My sweet loves, Penny, Pearl and Polly are doing well. They love attention!

Penny...

Pearl (on the left) and Polly...

Inside, the glove basket...

Warmth in the dining room...

Delmonico steaks for supper one night (cooking on a cast-iron grill...a wonderful gift from my sister and her family!)...

The rest of the meat I bought from the meat market, I vacuum sealed with my food saver (truly a wonderful invention)! :)

My Madelyn, beautifully blossoming into a young lady...

Jax and Mad playing library...

I love moments at home with the ones I love most. I can't imagine missing *any* of these precious, never-able-to-get-back moments with my children...and my husband when he is home from work. :o)

Today, we are officially starting to use the chore chart I posted about HERE. The children are excited to start it and I am anxious to see how well it works! I hope you have a great day and thank-you for visiting me, here! Until next time...

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Making a Chore Chart

2012-01-05T18:33:00.000-05:00

My children do their chores when asked. They all go out to feed the animals together, for instance...however one person would end up doing more than another would...making things seemingly *unfair* to each of them. We have tried chore cards, and dry-erase chore charts in the past. The problem with the chore cards (other than the fact that they get beat-up quickly) is that there isn't that feeling...you know, the one you get when you are checking things off on a list? It's a wonderful feeling when you can mark something *finished*. The dry-erase boards would end up with half of them wiped off and things not being marked correctly and just a lot of confusion.

So...I came up with a new system (that I truly hope will work well for us). The children have different chores on different days. When they complete each chore, they can hang their token on that specific hook. That way, they will have a feeling of accomplishment and I will know *what* it is they have accomplished (and what over-seeing/checking may need done).

It's truly, through the week, going to be a team effort. For example, I wash the dishes and the children will take turns through the week, putting them away. I will sweep/dust mop/scrub all the wood floors and kitchen floor while they take turns vacuuming carpets. I will do the laundry...and daily, they will need to make sure any folded clothes of theirs is put away neatly. Sunday is a day of rest where they have no chores (other than to make their bed). Between Chris and I, we'll get the animals fed and I will do everything else that needs done.

If you decide to try something like this...you could get *much* more creative than I did. This took me a while to get together and I admit, I didn't get too picky with it. Maybe (if this method works well) over time, I will come up with some different/better ideas to improve it.

Do you have a chore system that you use and really like?

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

"Winter is...

2012-01-04T06:58:00.000-05:00

...the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home."

~Edith Sitwell

Although overdue, we finally got snow! Now we have an abundance of it...and although I am not a huge fan, it really was beautiful to watch it...great, big, beautiful, fluffy snowflakes gently falling to the ground. I believe that the snow you see in these photos may be short-lived, though, as the temperature is suppose to rise to the 40's here in a few days.

After schooling yesterday, the children suited up in snowsuits, coats, gloves, hats and boots. They have been waiting for a good snow to play in, and this one was perfect! Out they went...making tracks all over! Jaxson didn't last long out there though...he came in, just too cold to bear. So after snuggling him in some afghans, he took a nice afternoon nap. Madelyn and X played and played...I wish I had a photo, for when they came in, their cheeks and noses were red from the bitter wintry air!

The outdoor wood stove works steadily, day and night, keeping us warm. I was up at 5 this morning and noticed it was a bit chilly in the house (when the temps outside are extremely cold, the wood stove has to work even harder to keep our house warm). I put on my coat and gloves (plus Chris's hat and boots) and galumphed my way through the snow to the stove. It was almost out....after stoking it, blowing on it and adding more wood, I think I got it going well again. I may have to go out and check it, again, soon.

Some kindling and gloves, drying out over the heater vent...

Xavier, reading...

Although I am a candle-lover all year through...I am especially a fan of them when the days become night sooner and when the temps outside are cold! Most winter days, you will find candles and/or oil lamps lit throughout my home!

Around the house...

I am working at crocheting myself all new dish cloths for the kitchen. The others I had knitted in years past, are ready to transition to the *rag* pile...

Although my family isn't as *large* as I would like, I still absolutely love this book...

It is chock full of great ideas...for any sized family! I haven't had the chance to go through the whole book yet, but I fully intend to! From different parts I have read, though, it will be a valuable tool in this home! :) Another book that I highly recommend (that I just finished reading) is Chosen by God by RC Sproul. Fantastic, truly...I hope you will consider reading it!

I have a busy day ahead...a few errands to run, schooling to do and housework that needs done! Plus, I need to get back outside to check the wood stove! Thanks, so much, for coming by to visit! I hope you have an absolutely **beautiful** day ahead!!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

My Favorite Little Gnome!

2012-01-02T08:15:00.000-05:00

I finished the gnome hat I was knitting for my niece, Eloise, that I mentioned HERE. I am happy with how it turned out. It's super soft and chunky! I was worried it wouldn't fit her head height-wise...but to my delight...it was a perfect fit! :) I am so glad it will keep that sweet head and ears of hers warm and snug against the cold winter wind! (My sister really liked it, as well, which gives me joy!)

A side view...

And from the back...

And a last picture...because she is so cute! <3

Today is the last day I scheduled off from our homeschool studies. It will be a good time to get the house back in order and just enjoy a bit of rest before diving back into our work tomorrow! :)

Thank you for each of your wonderfully kind comments and emails. I truly appreciate each of them!
I hope you have an enjoyable week ahead! Thank you for visiting!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

"Glory to God in highest heaven...."

2012-01-01T07:35:00.001-05:00

...Who unto man His Son hath given;
While angels sing with tender mirth,
A glad new year to all the earth."
~Martin Luther

My treasured family and I stayed home...to enjoy a fun, joy-filled New Year's Eve together! This was the first year Chris and I were letting the children stay up until midnight. We had snacks and played games...

We all had so much fun!

Team Daddy-X had to discuss their strategy...

Team Mama-Jax...

We had icecream...

...and watched a movie...

The children were full of energy...mama was not. I fell asleep in the chair around 10 pm...my eyelids were so heavy, I just couldn't keep them up! I awoke an hour later....Chris and the children talking, giggling, laughing and playing the Wii (a *winter-time only* thing in our house)...and I knew I couldn't make it until midnight...I still had an hour to go! Apologizing profusely, I retreated, got ready for bed and then tucked myself under my warm fleece-y blankets and quilts. I think I was asleep before my head rested on my pillow!

When I awoke, early this morning, I figured Chris would be beside me and the children would all be in their beds. However, Chris *wasn't* beside me in bed...and upon coming downstairs...I found all my sweeties got tuckered out too...

I need to, soon, rouse all my loves. We need to get ready for church (which will be followed by a family get-together). They are all sleeping so peacefully though...so I am going to let them do so for as long as I can. :) I hope you and your loved ones had a wonderful New Year's Eve and a joy-filled day, today!

We meet today
To thank Thee for the era done,
And Thee for the opening one.
~John Greenleaf Whittier

**And...I just have to add...this is my 1000th post! Wow!**

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

A Fond Farewell To December 2011

2011-12-30T16:45:00.001-05:00

Madelyn holding Eloise

I can hardly fathom where the year has gone. It feels like just last week we were welcoming the addition of Eloise to our extended family...and now she is 11 months old! She is growing and changing, much-too-quickly for this auntie's tastes! She gets increasingly sweeter and her personality blooms each time we see her. We all just love her to pieces. It's a joy watching her grow.

It's also wonderful to watch each of my own children growing, changing, maturing. I am so thankful for each of them...I wish I could fully express just how much. A mother's love is something truly hard to express in words. Love is shown...through teaching, nurturing, caring for, serving and spending time with them. They are each unique...carefully and lovingly knit together in my womb by the Creator, Himself. He gave them each their own personality, talents, gifts and abilities. I am forever grateful to Him for *them*.

Xavier, reading to his cousin...

The boys...taking a *break* in Pop-Pop's break room...

Eloise shares her book with her Uncle Chris! Such a sweet girl she is!

Outside it snowed...and then warmed up enough to make it melt. Although I am not a huge fan of snow...it would be *much* prettier than the wet, mucky, muddy-ness that is out there right now. Here's the most snow we have gotten this year (so far...as this is quite unusual for our area and I expect that eventually we will get loads of the fluffy white stuff sometime soon!)...

The children took turns having sleepovers at Grammie and Pop-Pop's house (we took this week off from schooling..we all needed the break!). While X was taking *his* turn...Madelyn and Jaxson played games...

...and read books...

Homemade noodles for supper one evening...

Homemade noodles are so easy...I have used many recipes for them...but the one I found to be the easiest and still tasty was this:

Mix 3 large eggs with 2 cups of flour, a dash of salt and a couple tablespoons of water. Form dough into a ball...roll out to desired thickness, cut then cook in boiling water till noodles float (only takes a couple minutes).

Chris has been chopping wood in the evenings for the wood stove. The children (and mama too) help stack the wood...

It's difficult to see, but the boys are carrying split wood to the back to stack. Chris is back there, as well.

Inside the wood stove, a beautiful fire is crackling...

And with the flash on...you can see Chris, blowing on the fire to getting it going stronger...

X with his super-giganto-gloves...

A new (from the thrift store) curtain for the front door...

King Jaxson...

Eloise has grown out of the other hats I have knit her...and since it's winter here in PA, she needs a new one! :) So, I am working on a new one for her (hopefully to have finished by Sunday when we will see them again!). :)

I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful New Year's Eve and Day! I am not sure of our plans this year...except that we plan on letting the children stay awake until midnight (if they can make it! I'm not even sure this mama can keep her eyes open that long!). :o)

Thank you for spending this year with me here...I am thankful for your encouragement and friendships. May you be blessed in the coming year and continue to grow closer to the One Who *made* it all! :o)
Happy New Year!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

~ The Wife at Home ~

2011-12-29T09:36:00.000-05:00

“A true home is one of the most sacred of places. It is a sanctuary into which men flee from the world’s perils and alarms. It is a resting-place to which at close of day the weary retire to gather new strength for the battle and toils of tomorrow. It is the place where love learns its lessons, where life is schooled into discipline and strength, where character is molded.

Few things we can do in this world are so well worth doing as the making of a beautiful and happy home. He who does this builds a sanctuary for God and opens a fountain of blessing for men.

Far more than we know, do the strength and beauty of our lives depend upon the home in which we dwell. He who goes forth in the morning from a happy, loving, prayerful home, into the world’s strife, temptation, struggle, and duty, is strong--inspired for noble and victorious living. The children who are brought up in a true home go out trained and equipped for life’s battles and tasks, carrying in their hearts a secret of strength which will make them brave and loyal to God, and will keep them pure in the world’s severest temptations.”

― J.R. Miller (emphasis mine)

Bread basket...

Madelyn and my nephew...

X, washing windows...

Jaxson...showing me his *invention*...

“Home is the true wife’s kingdom. There, first of all places, she must be strong and beautiful. She may touch life outside in many ways, if she can do it without slighting the duties that are hers within her own doors. But if any calls for her service must be declined, they should not be the duties of her home. These are hers, and no other one’s. Very largely does the wife hold in her hands, as a sacred trust, the happiness and the highest good of the hearts that nestle there. The best husband—the truest, the noblest, the gentlest, the richest-hearted—cannot make his home happy if his wife be not, in every reasonable sense, a helpmate to him.

In the last analysis, home happiness depends on the wife. Her spirit gives the home its atmosphere. Her hands fashion its beauty. Her heart makes its love. And the end is so worthy, so noble, so divine, that no woman who has been called to be a wife, and has listened to the call, should consider any price too great to pay, to be the light, the joy, the blessing, the inspiration of a home.

Men with fine gifts think it worth while to live to paint a few great pictures which shall be looked at and admired for generations; or to write a few songs which shall sing themselves into the ears and hearts of men. But the woman who makes a sweet, beautiful home, filling it with love and prayer and purity, is doing something better than anything else her hands could find to do beneath the skies.”

― J.R. Miller (emphasis mine)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Sweetness of Life

2011-12-27T10:11:00.000-05:00

“The woman who makes a sweet, beautiful home, filling it with love and prayer and purity, is doing something better than anything else her hands could find to do beneath the skies.”
― J.R. Miller, Home-Making

Yesterday, the house seemed a bit dis-combob-ulated and I worked at getting it straightened up. Jaxson stayed with me but Madelyn and X went with Chris and some other family to go to Amish country to look at a mule that Chris's dad is getting. Her name is Dolly and the children said I am going to fall in love with her (and I am quite sure I definitely *will*).

I took a break from cleaning to make up some caramels for my brother-in-law and Chris's uncle. They had cut venison while I was down wrapping the meat and had tried my caramels. They loved them and thought a gift of caramels from me to each of them would be quite nice. We were getting together with Pa's family (all the brothers and their families etc.) so I got the caramels made in time to cool and be wrapped so I could take them last night.

After setting the caramels to cool and finishing some laundry and tidying in the house...I worked on some crocheting...

Sunday afternoon, as I mentioned HERE, the children got to ride their new go-kart. Smiles and laughter were abounding...

Jaxson's legs were a bit too short to reach the pedals...so Chris rode with him to push the pedals while Jaxson got to steer...

Both of them were laughing and giggling the whole time! Such fun times and great memories!

Chris had work off yesterday...so after getting back from seeing the mule (that I mentioned in the beginning of this post) he spent the daylight hours working on the wood shed. He finished putting the back on and also the one side!

Madelyn was helping him!

It is coming along quite nicely...and I am so thankful that the snow has held back...it's nice that Chris is able to have the time to get the shed finished! Loading the wood stove with dry wood will be much nicer than trying to keep it going with wet logs! :)

As I type, the children are watching Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader. I may join them soon. I really enjoy the Narnia movies! We just finished some buttermilk biscuits for breakfast and doing some housework. To help out a friend later, I will be going to watch her children for a bit. Other than that...time will be spent crocheting, reading and playing games with the children. A friend may stop to visit at some point, today, as well. :) An enjoyable day, truly! I hope yours is, as well!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Memories in Pictures

2011-12-25T15:59:00.000-05:00

I am sitting here on this lovely, sunny December day (quite unusual for our area this time of year...I'm definitely not complaining though!). After a simple gift exchange at home and then church this morning, we went to have lunch at my parents' house and exchange gifts. We had a really nice time. I am relaxed at the moment...my toes are warm and snug in my new slippers from Chris. (He got me a pair last year and I wore them all year until he gave me this new pair, today!)

Yesterday, we enjoyed brunch at my sister and Cory's house. I made cinnamon rolls...we also had breakfast casserole, bacon, french toast casserole and juice. It was delicious! Unfortunately for Eloise, she had to eat some "garden greens" (thankfully, she didn't realize what she was missing with all the breakfast-goodness we had!).

When we arrived at their house, Eloise was napping. She awoke a little later and was (pleasantly) quite surprised at all the company she had!

Someday, Lord willing, I know this little man's feet will touch the floor when sitting on the sofa...so I wanted to capture a picture of X *before* that happens! :)

My three's little tootsies (they are all leaning on me at this time!)...

Madelyn and the Squeezle...

Eloise just loves her cousins. Although it pains me to admit this...she prefers them over me. Oh sadness...(although my children *love* that she loves them!)...

The boys (using Jaxson's shirt) were trying to teach El some colors!

Four little sweeties sitting on the floor...

My dad, opening a gift...

Grammie and Pop-Pop got my children whistles (what were they *thinking*!?!) I suggested that they would be great things to be kept to play with at *their* house! ;) ...

Eloise got a shopping cart from Grammie and Pop-Pop! She enjoyed pushing it some...but what she really liked to do was put things in it...take them out...then put them back in!

Truly, the best gift a person could get....

Grammie (aka: my mama) opening a gift...

Eloise wasn't always *this* into unwrapping her gifts...so I snapped a photo while I could!

Look at this face! Doesn't it make you want to just scoop her up and give her a big **squeeze**? It's why the nickname "Squeezle" really applies to her!

My Chris (if you hear a lovely sound around you...it's just my heart singing!)...

Xavier and Eloise playing with the same nativity set my sister and I used to play with when we were young...

My sweet girl...

Eloise, donning her new shoes from us (although she's been walking for months now...she usually does so in socks or slippers...so she isn't used to shoes)...

Uncle Chris and the "Squeeze"....

Today..after eating at my mom's...we took the children up to see a specific present Pop-Pop got for them (although the children didn't *know* why we were headed up there)...

Jaxson, collecting the eggs from Grammie's chickens...

And their gift? Another go-kart! Oh my, the children were excited! Each of them took a turn to sit in the driver's seat!

They brought the go-kart to our house...and the children are getting helmets on and ready to drive, as I type! I gotta get out there! :) I hope you all are enjoying a lovely weekend with friends and family. Thanks, so much, for dropping by! :)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Days of December

2011-12-23T11:23:00.001-05:00

Our days have been less hurried as of late. It's been wonderfully enjoyable. There are still the comings and goings of Chris to work, grocery trips and last minute shopping. But overall, there is a sense of rest in the air, a much needed one at that! You will find the children and I busy through the day still... schooling, tidying, washing, playing, baking and checking (and filling) the wood stove. We are taking a break from our school studies for today and the week ahead. It will be a nice time of re-charging for the new year. We were blessed on Wednesday to have my mom, sister and Squeezle over for a visit for lunch time (we usually meet at our dad's garage but I was babysitting my nephew from Chris's side and didn't have a proper car seat to take him anywhere...so *they* came to *us*!). Alas, I didn't take any pictures...but my sister took THIS one of Xavier and The-Big-Squeeze.

As I type, the children are out (and have been out there for a bit) in the garage (with their father's permission) making me a gift. Quite a fun little surprise! Such imaginations they have...oh! And now they have come back in, bellies growling for a snack! They are getting something now and going to snuggle into blankets and watch a movie. Our weather, although not overly cold, has been wet and soggy. Not very ideal for out-of-doors play. It's strange not having lots of snow here, now. We definitely seem to have the precipitation for it...just not the right temperatures. Although I am not a huge fan of the snow...the children are sure anxious to get out into some to play! But until then...they are finding in-door things to do...

Jaxson love to draw...

Madelyn, reading...

I keep busy too! Rolls for supper...

Watching a movie...

Schoolwork...

It's always more fun to read when you do so under a tent!

We had homemade mac and cheese and hamburgers for supper last night...

Followed by a rousing game of Wits and Wagers...

Madelyn won the first game!

Jaxson...the silly little guy!

"I heard a bird sing
In the dark of December
A magical thing
And sweet to remember.

'We are nearer to Spring
Than we were in September,'
I heard a bird sing
In the dark of December."

~Oliver Herford, I Heard a Bird Sing

We're looking forward to spending time, tomorrow, with my parents and sister's family for Christmas Eve. Eloise is growing so fast, it's terribly bittersweet. I'll be sure to snap some Squeezle-y photos tomorrow, to share! She is 11 months old today. Doesn't it feel like such a short time ago that I was posting about her birth?? My own children seem to grow so quickly, as well, but I guess, because I get to see them every day, it doesn't feel quite as fast as Eloise is growing and changing because I see her about once a week...and each week she seems *so* much older and changed! HERE she is back in July and again HERE in November!

I hope you have a lovely weekend. I know most of you will be celebrating Christmas...and we will be praising Jesus...and loving him as we always do...just not in the Christ-Mass sort of way. He is Wonderful and Praise-Worthy for His birth, life, death and resurrection *every* day. ;) Anyhoooo...off I go to continue my day. Warm wishes for each of you!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,

Katy

The Makings of a Wood Shed

2011-12-19T07:16:00.000-05:00

Before I say anything else, I simply *must* tell you how thrilled I am...deer season is over!! The deer are cut and wrapped! Whew! It's been a long few weeks! I am so very ready for evenings at home as a family! :o)

In other exciting news in our neck of the woods...Saturday afternoon, Chris began building a wood shed! We have needed one desperately since getting the wood stove (wet, snowy wood does not burn well!)...but never had the time to get one built. Chris was determined, while the snow seemed to be holding off this month, to build one! So off he journeyed to Lowe's, in the next town over. He got the supplies and came back and began setting the poles. (I helped with this part!) To our joy, Chris's uncle came over (who builds for a living) and helped Chris. His cousin came to help too! He was able to get so much accomplished with their help! Since I took these photos (below), the roof is finished. Chris will also be putting on a back and sides to the shed too. I just love it and am so thankful for my husband and those who helped him. This will benefit us greatly (when the fire goes out in the wood stove, it's difficult to be out in the freezing temps and trying to get the fire going with wet wood! Even when we covered the wood with tarps, when it snowed it froze the tarps and piled on top of them, making it difficult to get the wood beneath them!).

It all looks like a very disorganized mess right now...but thanks to another kind friend who lent us a log-splitter, we'll get it all cleared out, logs split and well-stacked soon! :)

Inside, I've been crocheting dish cloths, enjoying candles and lamp-light, schooling with the children, baking, reading and housework (the laundry is never-ending...wash, dry, fold, put away...REPEAT! ;).

I made Chex Mix last night...a family favorite!

Chris has just risen from his slumber. Time to help him get ready for work!
I hope your Monday is joy-filled!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

This Little Life of Mine

2011-12-15T22:35:00.000-05:00

I don't have Christmas decoration photos or anything of that sort to share. This year, although we are still giving gifts and such (in moderation)...we aren't decorating our home with a Christmas tree or anything else similar. I love Christmas decorations and the warm-fuzzy feelings of that time of year...however, I have been looking back at the history of things and found that Christ-Mass truly had nothing to do with Christ...and was changed by Constantine to appease the pagans. I have read articles, listened to sermons and watched this video....and I just can't convince myself that doing all the pagan things and saying they are "for Christ" actually honors my sovereign Father. Chris and I need to talk about it, more, together...but just haven't had the time with how busy we have been lately. After we are done processing venison and can finally come home and *relax*, we will have an in-depth conversation about it. It's not something that is easy to do (not celebrating Christmas).

It began when I felt convicted about lying to my children about *Santa* (a few years ago). I didn't feel right about it for numerous reasons...but it's late and I won't go into it at the moment (If you have felt convicted about any of the things I am posting about...please feel free to let me know. I'm not sure if I will do an entire post on the Christmas issue or not yet). Then I also became frustrated with the commercialism of Christmas....and now, I am truly diving in to what the season is **really** about.

This isn't about legalism. I am not a Jehovah's Witness. I am not fanatical. The truth is, I desire to serve God in a way that pleases Him. I am not sure that doing something He never called for (and was never celebrated in the early church) is truly honoring Him. It's a tradition of men...it started with pagans...then moved to Roman Catholics...then became embraced by everyone, it seems.

I have actually gone on about this topic more than I had planned...but I just wanted to explain why there will not be photos of Christmas to share. This is something I am feeling and I am not judging your decisions. If anyone is interested in knowing more about this subject, I may do a longer post on it...but for now, I will leave it with that! :) I welcome questions or comments...I just don't want anything to be argumentative! :o)

I have some photos to share...times of warmth, love, and family. They are just simple things...but moments I treasure as these little moments are what life is made of!

I've been baking...rolls, bread and more caramels too!

Jaxson...

The view from where I was sitting one evening...

Madelyn, playing and reading...

Working on schoolwork with Xavier...

X reading to daddy...

The quiet of night, soft candle-light and rest for a tired body...all perfect for the end of a busy day. Each day carries busy-ness of it's own...there is lots going on. I am so thankful for the days the children and I can squeeze a nap in...I get so tired some days!

It's late...I need to get to bed soon. Those flannel sheets, quilts and afghans are calling my name...and oh how I hate to keep them waiting! ;) I hope you have a good Friday and weekend ahead. Thanks for the visit! :o)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Simple Living: Vacuum-Sealed Freezing

2011-12-13T13:37:00.000-05:00

Would you like to save money, preserve taste and say *good-bye* to freezer burn? If so...you definitely want to look into one of THESE. **This is not an official review...just me...sharing this great method! :)

Do you have a vacuum sealer system? I was blessed to have won one from HERE. I had never used one before and was excited to give it a try! The thought of not ruining (and thus, wasting) food from freezer burn was wonderful! During this busy time of year for us, Chris and I hadn't had a chance to try out, but were anxious to. We had some time, recently, to give it a try...so with fresh meat I purchased from Chris's parents' meat market, we got ready to vacuum seal! I was given some already-made bags to seal in....but there is also a roll that you can make your own-sized bags, as well (which we did some of, as well!).

In the top photo, you can see we placed the beef roast inside a bag. Chris clicked a few buttons (to show if the item your sealing is dry or moist and such)...put the open end of the bag into the sealer...and it did it's thing!

You could hear all the air being sucked out of it! (It was so exciting! Yes, I know I am so simply amused like that!) After a few seconds, it releases the bag and you can pull it out...

Finished! Wasn't that easy?
I am so, so happy that I am able to save and keep food (especially meat) from getting freezer-burnt! Of course, I think canning is one of the *best* ways to preserve food (as the jars don't depend on being kept in a freezer) but this vacuum-sealed freezing rates a close second!

The beef roast was placed into the freezer, then we tried vacuuming sealing some chicken! **A word of caution: vacuum sealing can become extremely addictive! ;)

You can use the sealer system for other (dry) foods, as well! I have yet to try that, though. We have sealed some other things but I didn't photograph it all! ;) If you do this at home, I would love to hear some of the things you seal and keep fresh. :) I bet you could seal cookies and cakes, if you wanted to! Oh, the possibilities seem endless!

Before I go, I just want to say how glad I am so many like and plan on trying the caramel recipe I posted! They are truly delicious and I have had people ask me to make more (although I need to run to the store and get some more sweetened condensed milk first!).

It's cold here (and the wood stove is being a bit of a pickle today) but I am thankful the sun is shining brightly! Our day has been (and will continue to be) filled with schooling, housework and tending to the outdoor wood stove. We had spaghetti and meatballs for lunch (yum)...I have some meatballs left over...I think it's time to vacuum seal!! :) Tonight will be spent wrapping deer meat at the meat market again.

Thank you for stopping by to visit me here. The world-wide-web is such a strange thing, if you really think about it...isn't it? There are ga-zillions of sites and I appreciate that you took the time to visit my bitty-bit of a site! :o) Happy Tuesday!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Making Caramels

2011-12-12T08:07:00.001-05:00

I made caramels this weekend! Oh my, they are quite delicious! They would make *great* gifts as well! I thought you may enjoy making these, so I kept track of what I was doing and am going to share the recipe with you here!

To make around 2 1/2 pounds of caramel...you will need:

1c. butter
1 lb. brown sugar
dash of salt
1 c. light corn syrup
1 14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract

*Melt butter in saucepan.

*Add brown sugar and salt. Stir. Pour in corn syrup and mix well.

*Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, stirring constantly.

*Cook and stir over medium heat until candy reaches firm ball stage (245 on candy thermometer ~ about 12-15 minutes).

*Remove from heat, stir in vanilla. Pour into a buttered 9" square pan.

*Cool and cut. I wrapped each piece in wax paper. They can be made made *much* neater than this (below)...but I was just trying to get them done...and these were just for us at home. It they were to be a gift, I would have sized and wrapped them much neater. :)

I hope you will give them a try! They are a wonderful treat! :) If you do, I would love to know what you thought of them! Enjoy!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

December Happenings...

2011-12-09T09:37:00.000-05:00

December has been flying by quickly...each day we move the black circle on the calendar (and notice, it's already been three days since I took the photo above!). It's true that we all have the same 24 hours in a day...but some of those hours fly by quicker than others! I still have a hard time realizing that I am the mother of a 10 year old, 8 year old, and a 6 year old! The days of holding and snuggling my babies are still fresh in my mind. It seems hardly possible that those are just distant memories now! I also feel as though I have finally just gotten used to writing the year 2011...and soon, I will have to start writing 2012!

Earlier this week, the children made themselves crowns and were enjoying being *royalty* for the day. May I present to you...Queen Madelyn, Prince Xavier (the jester of the bunch) and Prince Jaxson...

**Isn't Madelyn's jumper beautiful (although in need of a good ironing)? I got it for a wonderful price from THIS etsy shop! These girls are so sweet...they also have a blog you can check out HERE! :)

Missing the other recliner we had taken out of the living room (that I posted about HERE), I called Chris and asked his permission (which he does not demand...but I do out of love and respect) to move some furniture around and with his consent, I brought the recliner back in (it also rocks...it's so nice to *rock*)...and moved the couch out and put the new chair in it's place. It leaves so much more room in the living room!

Madelyn enjoyed the change and sat in the chair reading Black Beauty...

The Queen on her *throne*... ;)

After some moving-things-around, we moved the couch into the schoolroom. It creates a wonderful place to sit and read. X even wanted to do some of his schoolwork out there. :)

Below is the matching bookshelf to the one in the living room (hand-me-downs from my aunt!). It gives another great place to hold our over-flow of books!

Yesterday, I didn't schedule any schooling. We drove an hour to my sister's where we jumped in with her and my mom, who was driving separately. Then we traveled another hour up-over-and-away to a restaurant to meet and have lunch with my grammie, aunts and cousins from my mom's side of the family! My sweet Madelyn...

We got home around 5 and after relaxing for a bit at home, the children and I then headed to the meat market to help with the deer processing. Poor X was suffering from a headache so after we finished up there, we hurried home so he could get to bed. He seems to be doing better this morning. :)

Today, although cloudy outside, I can still see the sun, brightly shining. We will tackle schooling, chores around the house and grocery shopping (which I usually do on Wed. but I wasn't feeling well this past shopping day). This afternoon I am going to be baking bread/rolls and a lasagna to take down to the meat market for supper for everyone. :o) A full day, to be sure.

I hope your day is full...each and every moment filled with bringing glory to God through the tasks you are accomplishing. Giving thanks, thanking Him for each moment and provision He supplies. He is so good...perfect in all He does.

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

It's Deer Season...

2011-12-06T09:15:00.001-05:00

...And we are all busy each evening of this season, at the meat market, processing the deer meat that hunters bring in. The men-folk (and the children when they are allowed) work at skinning and cutting the meat into steaks. My mother-in-love and I (and this year, my mom is helping us too!) work at wrapping the steaks and roasts, making and packaging the hamburger and get it all bagged up and in the freezer.

Below is my Christopher and his uncle working one evening. There can be anywhere from 2 to 6 men, or so, busily back there cutting. It's great when a group of them are there, as we process the meat quicker, but more importantly because the men talk and laugh together...and to hear them joyfully laughing in unison is an absolutely beautiful sound.

The children love going down each evening. Some nights, their cousins are down there too...they all have fun playing together. Other nights, my children are the only ones there, so they help wherever they are needed and then play as they can. The walls of the freezers and coolers in the meat market are magnetic. The children were playing word games using letter magnets the other night. I took a quick break from wrapping meat to run and grab my camera...who says homeschooling has to be confined to the *home*? :)

It's a *busy* time of year for our family! I know, though, that especially for the children, it creates many wonderful memories that they will think back on fondly. I am recording this here, so when I print out this year's blog book...it will be saved and remembered. :)

I need to get going...I have much to accomplish today. Laundry, dishes and school work with the children are all awaiting me! Before I go, though, I wanted to share a link about womanhood that I have listened to recently that I truly feel each of you will glean much wisdom and encouragement from. It can be found HERE. :) You can listen to it while you are online checking your email or have it on in the background while you are doing your housework. If you listen to it, I would love to hear your thoughts on it! And if you find it biblically sound and right, as I do, I hope you will pass it on to other women in your life!
Thank you for visiting me today! :o)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Giving Thanks for Jaxson

2011-12-05T09:08:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Jaxson's 6th birthday this weekend! First, on Friday with my sister, Devon, and the Squeezle, at my dad's garage. Then again on Saturday evening at Chris's parents' meat market (since we are all so busy with the venison coming in to process (skin, cut, wrap)...it's easier to have his party where everyone already *is*).

Since Devon lives further away and couldn't be at the birthday celebration on Saturday evening, she came the day before, bringing cupcakes and gifts for my little guy! Uncle Cory had to be at work, so he couldn't be there but he was missed! The Squeezle was there ~ full of her sweet-melt-your-heart smiles!

My Madelyn with Eloise....

To spend as much time with my sister and Eloise as possible, while they were in town, we met with them early...one of the beautiful things of homeschooling is that you can take your work with you!!!

I know some of my photos end up blurry...but I still had to share this one of Eloise! I love that look of sheer happiness and joy she has!

Aunt Nen came with gifts! Jaxson was so excited! He loves VWs (and keys...my boy just loves keys too!). All the gifts from Uncle Cory, Aunt Nen and Eloise were VW-themed!

Jax and his new VW bus necklace...

Aunt Nen even made him custom t-shirts!

Look at this hoodie of Eloise's. Isn't it great? It wasn't knit by me...but by a lady from their church. It has a zipper down the back of it! I just love it and hope to find a pattern like it to try!

Eloise hadn't napped the whole day, really, and was extremely tired. After some mama-milk, she was out like a light! How sweet is this? She stayed asleep as Devon buckled her into her car seat and everything!

We were so glad they could meet with us and celebrate Jaxson's six beautiful years of life!

Saturday, Jaxson's birthday, Chris and X went hunting in the morning...

...so Jaxson, Madelyn and I made some big-fluffy waffles for breakfast and spent the day together!

Madelyn and Jax spent time drawing fish...

Reading books...

Making cupcakes...

The chocolate icing we made was really delicious! You can find the recipe HERE if you are interested in trying it!

Saturday night, we took the cupcakes down to the meat market where members of Chris' family were...

This turtle, below, (a gift from my parents) is a favorite of all three of the children! It shines stars and a moon all over the ceiling and walls in a dark room! That night, Madelyn and Xavier slept on the floor of Jax's room so they could all enjoy *sleeping under the stars*!

We are so thankful for the gift of Jaxson. I can't imagine these past 6 years without him in them! Children are such a beautiful blessing from God. I find myself, often, just watching my children...thinking of who they will grow to be, reminiscing the past and enjoying them in the present. It is my prayer that they each live for Christ...for His glory...every day of their lives. Chris and I are prayerfully trying to train them up in the way they should go (a daunting but blessed responsibility!).

The children and I are moving slowly this morning. It's cloudy and gray outside. The woodstove is keeping our house toasty-warm and comfy. We just finished a breakfast of warm, homemade buttermilk biscuits. We need to get started on our schooling and chores. :) Thank-you for stopping by and sharing in Jaxson's birthday memories with me. I hope you enjoy your Monday!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Wisdom from Ann and Anne

2011-12-03T09:48:00.000-05:00

A bit of delicious-ness for you to drink in and enjoy for your weekend...

"Simplicity is ultimately a matter of focus."

~ Ann Voskamp

"I know I chatter on far too much...but if you only knew how many things I want to say and don't. Give me some credit."

~Anne Shirley

"Thanksgiving - giving thanks in everything - prepares the way that God might show us His fullest salvation in Christ."

~ Ann Voskamp

"I know. I can't help flying up on the wings of anticipation. It's as glorious as soaring through a sunset...almost pays for the thud."

~Anne Shirley

"A life contemplating the blessings of Christ becomes a life acting the love of Christ."

~Ann Voskamp

"Babies are never common. Each one is a miracle."

~Anne Shirley

"Grace is alive, living waters. If I dam up the grace, hold the blessings tight, joy within dies...waters that have no life."

~Ann Voskamp

"Oh Marilla, such a Jonah day."

~Anne Shirley

“I don't really want more time; I just want enough time. Time to breathe deep and time to see real and time to laugh long, time to give You glory and rest deep and sing joy and just enough time in a day not to feel hounded, pressed, driven, or wild to get it all done-yesterday.”

~Ann Voskamp

Two lovely Ann(e)'s with thought-provoking words of truth, love, humor, and inspiration! I hope you enjoyed them as much as I did!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

The Hair Cut

2011-12-01T16:34:00.000-05:00

Madelyn got her hair cut. It looks cute, is healthy and much easier to manage...but I miss those long locks! She has naturally thick, curly hair...which when long gets knotted and tangled easily. She asked me if she could get it cut and I agreed. I had wanted it to stay a little longer...but my aunt cut off enough so we could send it to Locks of Love. Madelyn assures me her hair will grow back ;).

She loves that it is now easier to manage and less knotty! I think it will curl up a lot when she wets it! It'll be cute to see how it looks then!

Friends of ours had to take their son to a doctor appointment a few hours away and needed to leave early this morning. I picked up their 4 girls (2 of whom are 1 yr old twins) and brought them to spend the night here, last night, so they could get up and going early. All the children are sweet-as-can-be and I loved them to pieces...however, sleep was something I didn't get much of last night! The one twin slept just fine for a while in her playpen. The other kept getting up a lot and crying. I was afraid she would wake her sister...so I continued to soothe her, rub her back and try to hold her when necessary. Finally, she fell asleep too...but no sooner had she fallen asleep and the first twin wakes up crying (around 3am). This wakes up the second twin and I had them *both* crying! I, not used to having twins to care for, and suffering from lack of sleep, woke Chris around 4 and asked him to help me. We each held one of the girls...rocking, soothing, and patting their backs. Me, baby that I am, was near tears from exhaustion and weariness. Chris took both girls and sat with them in the rocker and rocked them (the glare on his eyes is from his glasses)...

That didn't work either, unfortunately. Morning came too soon and the day began...Chris and I dragging all the way! I must give tremendous credit to my friend, the mama of these sweet girls (and the other two older girls who stayed with us too) and all other mamas of multiples. Having twins is difficult! These are wonderful treasures, these girls, but it's certainly not easy tending to them at the same time! I am plum tuckered out! Their father came and picked them up just a bit ago. I know I will sleep long and well tonight! ;) We weren't able to get any schooling done today...so we'll need to get caught up on our work...but I definitely think we'll be able to tackle it all after a good nights rest!

Tonight, though, before getting to snuggle down into my quilts...I'll be going down to help wrap venison at my in-love's meat market. They get lots of guys cutting the meat...but only my Mother-in-Love and I usually wrap. This year, my mom has started helping wrap meat when she can...which is a huge help! :) X just woke up from a rest time and Jaxson is still napping. I think having the babies here tired us all out!

I hope you are enjoying your week! We had sunshine, lots of beautiful rays of golden sunshine, today! I am so thankful! It does a spirit good to that in! Thank you for visiting me here today!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

"The smell of good bread baking...

2011-11-29T17:29:00.000-05:00

...like the sound of lightly flowing water, is indescribable in its evocation of innocence and delight."

~M.F.K. Fisher

Have you ever made clover-leaf rolls? They are a favorite in our house....and so easy to make! You can use your favorite bread recipe (I used a regular white bread for these rolls). After letting the dough rise for the first time, punch it down and split it into halves. I used one half to make a loaf of bread...formed it and put it into a greased loaf pan to rise. With the other half...to get equally sized rolls, I split the dough into 4 equal pieces. Then I split those into three equal pieces...totaling 12 pieces of dough. Then I took each of *those* pieces and separated them into three equal balls of dough and put them into greased muffin tins to rise.

After letting the rolls and bread rise for 30 minutes or so, I baked them for another 30 minutes. Out came beautiful, delicious clover-leaf rolls...

...as well as a plump, golden loaf of bread...

Our lives full of stress
fighting a race day to day
rats on the treadmill, the maze
trying to find our own way

Turning to human goals
to acquire and to hold
Forgetting the lessons of the Christ
a more humble way to go

Living that simple life
loving God and our fellow man
spending time in the word
lending our helping hand

Trusting in the Lord
His hand will provide
going where we are led
our brother by our side

~Raymond A. Foss,

Living That Simple Life

Glimpses into my sweet, simple life...

It's been raining here lately, although the sunshine popped it's lovely face out for a bit this afternoon. Xavier had to don his rain poncho and galoshes to do his chores this morning...

The children built a tent in the living room this morning before tackling our schoolwork...

A B C...Come & learn with me...

Madelyn reading to Jaxson...

Xavier helping Jaxson to read some simple words from the McGuffey Reader...

Sleepy Jaxson...

Soft and cozy corners of the dining room in the darkness of winter evenings...

"November comes
And November goes,
With the last red berries
And the first white snows.

With night coming early,
And dawn coming late,
And ice in the bucket
And frost by the gate.

The fires burn
And the kettles sing,
And earth sinks to rest
Until next spring."

~Elizabeth Coatsworth

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Rainy Days

2011-11-28T15:49:00.001-05:00

I have found, to improve moods on a rainy day, simply lighting a few candles helps immensely! It's been raining off and on a lot lately. I need some *sunshine*! Since, however, I don't have control over the weather, we have been filling the days with things to do in-doors. :)

Cape-making...

Game playing (and creating *new* rules for an old game)...

Story writing...

Bible reading...

Schooling and making doll clothes...

Making meals...

Housework and chores...

I also must admit, I am a sermon-junkie. It's true...I just can't help it. If I am on the computer, I am listening to a sermon. I also enjoy listening to them while doing housework (although sometimes it's hard to truly listen when I am busy....so slow instrumental music or worship music is enjoyed more when doing house-chores). Lately, I have been enjoying sermons (usually more than once) by Paul Washer, Voddie Baucham and Phil Johnson. These men are biblical and true to the Word of God. If you need filled with true biblical teaching...these men will feed you. **From my heart to yours...stay clear of Joel Osteen, Benny Hinn, Joyce Meyer, Rick Warren, Mark Driscoll and the like (Matthew 7:15).**

Of course, learning from teachers is good...but nothing is better than being in the Bible for yourself. Are you in the Word? Do you realize what a beautiful gift it is? Yahweh, our Almighty Sovereign Creator, speaks to us through it. So many don't have the chance to actually read the Bible. I encourage you to read it, think on it, pray on it and read it some more....and then share it!

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

~2 Timothy 3:16-17

Although it is still cloudy and wet out, there is a break in the rain...the children have taken that chance to go out doors to play for a bit. I have bread-making started and some more dishes to wash. Soon, it will be time to prepare supper and nestle in for the night as the darkness sets in. My-brave-hunter-Chris is out sitting in the woods, I mean: hunting, today. Some friends and family have gotten bucks already...but my sweet Chris hasn't snagged one yet. He was happy to see some but hasn't got a shot off yet.
Once it starts getting dark, Chris will head to his parents' meat market (where they do deer meat processing) to skin deer. The children like to help with that as well. Then *deer season* officially sets in for us. The men-folk do the cutting while Ma (Chris's mama) and I diligently get to meat-wrapping. It's a long and tiresome process! Hours of standing on cement floors is hard on this mama's body! I am, what most would consider, a young age of 30...but when I come home from helping there, I feel achy and *much* older! Oh, listen to me complain! It's nice being able to work together for a common purpose...it's just busy. I am thankful it is only for a season though...by the time deer season is over...we are all plum-tuckered-out!

I keep doing some chores and then coming back to the computer to type a bit. I now have bread rising, the floors are swept and most of the dishes are done...I also just cleaned out the compost bucket... *ewww* 'twas not a pretty smell! The children are back in now, from playing, and are watching a movie for a bit. I need to get moving...I have other things to accomplish today. **If you have time, and haven't yet, HERE is a great post from sweet, lovely Ann. :)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

A Bit of Change in the Living Room!

2011-11-26T11:04:00.000-05:00

I found a beautiful old but new-to-me chair (quite on accident, actually, as I wasn't *looking* for one). I wasn't out shopping, really...the children and I just needed to go to the local feed store to get goat wormer. We all love a store in town that is chock full of great antiques and vintage items. Since we were out and about...we decided to stop there, quickly, before coming home. While browsing around...I found the chair! After talking to Chris (over the phone) about the price and if it was okay to purchase it (as we always discuss these things first)...I was able to bring it home! It is taking the place of one of the recliners (which had truly been too big for the space anyway).

Xavier, giving the old chair a try-out...

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

"For each new morning with its light,

2011-11-25T07:28:00.001-05:00

...For rest and shelter of the night,

For health and food, for love and friends,

For everything Thy goodness sends.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

The children and I spent much of Thanksgiving eve cleaning the house. Although we keep the house pretty tidy throughout each day, the thought of having guests encouraged us to do a little extra cleaning. We had previously planned to have our Thanksgiving meal at my parents' house...but due to a few circumstances, mom called and asked if we could have the meal here! I gladly accepted! I love to host get-togethers!

Madelyn, a great helper, busy dusting shelves...

The boys were good helpers too, I must admit. :) I am thankful for my children and their willingness to help. Jaxson, after cleaning, took time to do some coloring...

Thanksgiving drawings and crafts...

Always grateful, having a heart full and joyful...because of Him...

Thou hast given so much to me,

Give one more thing, -a grateful heart;

Not thankful when it pleaseth me,

As if Thy blessings had spare days,

But such a heart whose pulse may be Thy praise.

~George Herbert

The house smelled wonderful being freshly-cleaned; with warm fragrances from candles filling the air...

Thanksgiving day held busyness, as well! I was doing last-minute cleaning...hustling and bustling around the house. I stopped to see Christopher enjoying some coffee and a magazine...I jokingly told him I would take his picture and post it as *his* contribution to the Thanksgiving prep! ;) It's hard to see, but he is smiling in this picture!

My Madelyn...cheerfully helping me in the kitchen...

Setting up tables and chairs...

Finally, family started to arrive! Although I was still busy preparing food to be served...I did get the chance to snap a few photos of Miss Eloise. She was her ever-glowing, squeezle-y self...smiles and giggles abounding! What joy she brings to the family! *She turned 10 months old on the 23rd! The time is flying by much-too-quickly!*

My dad (known as Pop-Pop to the children) with Eloise...

High-Five!

And another!

She smiled the whole afternoon (which of course made us all smile and laugh as she makes the cutest faces)!

After a lovely prayer of Thanksgiving from our little Jaxson, it was time to eat! Since we didn't have room on the tables to put the food...we left it in the kitchen and filled our plates buffet style!

See? She really *did* smile all afternoon...

After our lovely meal, Chris retired to his chair and quickly fell asleep...

Devon, Cory and Eloise had to leave so they could spend time with Cory's family. We were sad to see them go but thankful they were able to be here as long as they were! Some other family came by for pie and coffee a bit later. The children put on a puppet show for them! (The theater Chris made had accidentally been bumped a while back and the top broke...thus why the curtain is so low at the present time. Chris said he will fix it for the children. They were happy to make-do with what they had though!:)

A cousin's little girl didn't want to just watch! She wanted to play *too*!! :)

The children let the goats out for a bit in the evening. Pearl and Polly were quite thankful, I'm sure, for a chance to get outside a bit and run around!

My mom asked if Madelyn could have a sleepover at her house that evening...so after helping me clean up a bit (and find places for all the leftovers in the fridge)...my parents and Madelyn left. I happily found rest in my chair in the living room...thankful to put my feet up for a bit. Chris and the boys had a lot of fun playing a Spot It game...

Although we can all make lists, miles long, of things to be truly thankful for...let us never forget the real reason for any of us to be grateful...the gift of God...His Son...taking our sins upon Himself and suffering our punishment. Do you know Him?

"Greater love hath no man than this,

that a man lay down His life for His friends."

~Jesus (John 15:13)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Simple Busyness

2011-11-23T07:38:00.002-05:00

“100 years ago, buying something you could make was considered wasteful; now making something you could buy is considered wasteful. I am not convinced this is a step in the right direction.”

~Stephanie Pearl-McPhee

It has been a while (a *long* while) since I have worked on this knitting project. It is a patchwork afghan for my sister and her husband. It was to be a wedding present...They have been married for over 2 1/2 years. Yes...it's taking me years! I set it aside to do other projects, sometimes, and then just don't pick it up again for a good, long while. I would really like to make some progress on it...actually, I would like to finish it! So, I have begun knitting another square!

Other projects I have been working on (these are crocheted)...

My first-ever crocheted flower...

We have had some rainy, chilly days here lately. The children have spent their time doing schoolwork, reading, playing and even squeezing in an occasional nap!

Sleepy boys (below)....it was actually quite dark in the room but the flash brightened it all up! These two were absolutely asleep though...the flash didn't even rouse them! Look at those bright pink cheeks of Jaxson's! ;)

I have been keeping busy with other things, as well. There is always laundry, house-keeping, children-raising, meal-making and so much more that keeps me on my toes. Often, though, I feel as though I get repetitive in my posts...since, truly, life is a constant journey of routine. I fear my tales of chores and homeschooling must get monotonous! Each day has it's special moments though...trials, frustrations, joys and memories...treasures that make every day unique!

I will be hosting a Thanksgiving meal, here at home, tomorrow! I am looking forward to it! Oh, how my heart overflows with gratefulness daily. There is just so much to be thankful for, isn't there? May we each never take anything for granted! *On a special note: My niece, Eloise, turns 10 months today! What a glorious 10 months it has been too! My only regret is that we do not live closer!*

Warm wishes to you and your families today (and every day)...I hope your Thanksgiving is a time of true gratefulness and worship of the One Who gives all.

O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good;

for His mercy endureth for ever.

~1 Chronicles 16:34

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

"Books to the ceiling...

2011-11-21T12:14:00.000-05:00

...Books to the sky,

My pile of books is a mile high.

How I love them! How I need them!

I'll have a long beard by the time I read them!"

~Arnold Lobel

Books are the quietest and most constant friends;

they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors,

and the most patient of teachers.

~Charles W. Eliot

The love of learning, the sequestered nooks,

And all the sweet serenity of books.

~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Be as careful of the books you read, as the company you keep; for your habits and character will be as much influenced by the former as by the latter.

~Paxton Hood

Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested: that is, some books are to be read only in parts, others to be read but not curiously, and some few to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention.

~Sir Francis Bacon

Just a few treasured places, around our home, filled with books...with many still waiting to be read! There are even more book shelves that I have not taken photos of this time (although I have photo-ed and put in previous blog posts over the years). As much as I love books and also to *read* them...I must end this post with a quote that I couldn't have said better myself (so true, isn't it?):

"The Bible is worth all other books which have ever been printed."

~Patrick Henry

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

A Glorious Day in November

2011-11-19T13:48:00.001-05:00

"Fallen leaves lying on the grass in the November sun bring more happiness than the daffodils."

~Cyril Connolly

Today is a beautiful day...cold and windy (as expected in the middle of November) but the sun is shining it's glorious rays upon the land. I am so thankful! Sunshine brightens any day, doesn't it? Chris and the boys spent the morning at the church for a fellowship time with other men at the *Men's Breakfast*. Madelyn and I spent that time diligently cleaning...it's always easier to tidy things when the men-folk are out! We swept (and washed) floors, washed dishes, hung out freshly-washed laundry, and other needful things. When we were finished, we sat down together in the living room to crochet.

As you can see, in the photo above, the girls are laying! It's funny, as many others' lay-ers are slowing down their egg production due to the lack of sunlight and increasingly cold temperatures....and ours are finally getting their offical *start* to laying! They're a bit backwards...but I have absolutely no intentions of letting them know it....if they want to lay in the fall/winter...I'll take it happily! :)

As I type, I am so grateful to know that a couple good friends of ours are out helping Chris repair our garage roof. The days he has worked on it previously, he has done so alone. It is such a blessing that a couple friends could give him a hand today. The process goes so much quicker...and kind-hearted humor and fellowship does a heart good while working! The men are outside the window now, talking and working and laughing together...I can't even describe how thankful I am to see and hear it.

The children have been in and out of the house, it's difficult to keep it warm in here! The wood stove is working away...but the doors are being, and oft times left, opened so often, the heat just keeps escaping! I know that the snow will arrive in the near future (hopefully later rather than sooner) so, I am just glad the children can *be* outside, enjoying the sunshine!

As a favor to my aunt...last evening, I spent time making a sign for our local YMCA's family fun night...

The chicken coop and run, adorned with Xavier's beloved crosses...

The trees are quite bare...evidence of the cold truly setting in...

Chris works hard, keeping wood ready for the wood stove...to keep us warm! (I have tried to split wood with the ax. I have always considered myself a strong woman...but well, not so much in the axing department...I was just horrible! I couldn't get it to split no matter how much I tried!)

We let all the goats out to play, while spending time outside this morning...

Pearl and Polly stick close to Penny. She isn't their *real* mama...but I think she has *adopted* them (and they her)...

Cash wanted to play with the goats in the *worst* way...but Penny would not have any of it!

Pearl (with my Ruthie-girl in the background)...

Tonight we will be going to our friends' house to fellowship and have a meal together. We always have a nice time when getting together with friends. :o)

If (and as) time allows this weekend...here are some links I have gleaned wisdom and encouragement from (some are audio links that you can listen to while home-keeping!):

God's Goodness = Man's Worst Problem

The Glorious in the Mundane

Great Q & A with Paul Washer and Voddie Baucham

What is Christmas About?

Training Hearts, Teaching Minds
The book we use alongside the Bible to teach our children about the *Almighty Him*.

Radical Compassion

Hell's Best Kept Secret

How to Make an Apple Dumpling

Until next time, Lord willing...

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

Let Them Be Little

2011-11-18T07:21:00.003-05:00

But Yeshua said to them, “Let the children come to me and do not forbid them, for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these.”

~Matthew 19:14

Just some old photos...in no particular order...of just when each of my beautiful littles *were* little! They are *still* little, now, but looking back brings me joy and swells my heart to two-sizes-too-big! It also helps me to revel in the present and look forward to the future with these beautiful God-given gifts! Let them be little...

Xavier

Xavier...a wee bit littler!

Madelyn

Jaxson

King Jax

Baby Jaxson

Even our dog, Cash, used to be little!

Let them be little

'cause they're only that way for a while

Give them hope, give them praise,

give them love every day,

Let them cry, let them giggle,

let them sleep in the middle

Oh just let them be little.

~Billy Dean

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

A Bit of Joy on a Rainy Day!

2011-11-17T10:32:00.000-05:00

Madelyn and I had the chance to go to my sister's house for a visit with her and the squeezle, yesterday! When we got there, Eloise was sleeping...so we spent time visiting with Devon! Soon, Eloise was up and ready to play! She was full of giggles and smiles!

And oh, how Madelyn and I laughed....Eloise, at the sweet old age of 9 months is a walker (and runner)! Oh how she goes! It is so, so funny to watch her little legs toddle everywhere! She's just so fast too!

Madelyn helped Eloise ride her horse, Bill!

Off she goes again!

There she goes, right into the arms of Madelyn! (Oh look, my lovely piggies are captured in the bottom of this photo!)...

Madelyn reading to Eloise...

Two of my most *favorite* girls....

Eloise has spotted something...

It's Auntie Katy's knitting basket!

I think my niece may be a future yarn-lover too!

While at Nen's, she fed us a wonderful lunch! She made us grilled chicken salads which were delicious! **Thanks, Devon!** (I had a smidge of trouble enjoying the meal fully, though, because I am having a lot of pain with my left wisdom teeth. If you have been reading here for a bit, you will remember my right wisdom teeth trouble and how I had to get them out...my insurance doesn't cover anesthesia...so I opted for the local anesthetic while I was awake....oh my! Never again! It was awful! I am praying these left wisdom teeth stop giving me pain!)

Madelyn got the chance to try some block print stamping, while there, too!

While in the living room, Madelyn grabbed a neck pillow from a chair and put it on her head...it looked just like a huge bow! It was just too funny! I grabbed the camera so I could snap a picture!

It was a really nice visit and I am glad we had the opportunity to go over! It was a rainy and dismal day and Eloise brightened it right up! Such a bundle of sunshine she is!

I am quite thrilled to be able to say that yesterday, I taught her to wave and say *hi* at the same time! She did it so much better before her mama started filming it...(and after her mama stopped filming...that's always the way, isn't it?) ;) But you can see it HERE. Be prepared, though, Madelyn and I say "hi" numerous times and in the most annoying voices...but Eloise responded well to it! :)

In *other* news...I tried to straighten my hair, the other day. It was the first time I had done so in years. It turned out *okay*...but I was crunched for time, as I was going to help a friend by babysitting her children (5 of them...plus my 3 = 8 children under 10 years of age...and one of me!). So, needless to say, after this photo (below) was taken...it got quickly put up into a pony tail! (It's kind of embarrassing posting pictures of myself right on here...but I know someone will ask to see it!) :)

As I was straightening it, all I could imagine was that all my natural curls were being burned away...I was worried I had damaged it. Luckily, after taking a shower the next day...my curls popped back in all their glory (albeit a messy-bit-of-glory!)!

Loretta, a sweet blog-friend of mine, had a bit of a giveaway on her blog and I was the winner! She asked that I would post some picture of the package she sent! She sent some fun items for the children (which they were excited to receive)...

And Christmas items for me! :)

Thank you, Loretta, for everything! It was so kind of you to send it all...and the items for the children too!

The winner of The Grace Effect giveaway, I hosted, here on my blog, was Wendi from My Heart is Always Home! Congratulations Wendi! Thank you, all who participated!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

"It is not how much we have...

2011-11-15T09:53:00.000-05:00

...but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness."

~Charles Spurgeon

Simple corners of the kitchen...

Morning has arrived...candles lit and Chris's coffee made...

Below, the dish towel basket and a new-to-us cupboard in the background there. It's from my mom's house...she is redoing her kitchen so it came to me. It provided a perfect place to store pantry-items!

Cookbooks and onions...

Wooden bowls and baskets...

I have found the perfect equation for an enjoyable morning! I awake early (around 4)...check emails and have some breakfast. I listen to a sermon online by either Voddie Baucham, Paul Washer or David Platt (or others), listen to the daily briefing by Albert Mohler, then take time to read my Bible, pray and read in my newest book of choice: The World-Tilting Gospel by Dan Phillips (from Pyromaniacs).

I have found that if I go back upstairs to lay down with Chris, although I love it, I end up losing energy and feeling extremely tired. If I stay downstairs, continue reading, do some knitting or crocheting, and start my housework, I feel *much* better! I get any dishes left over from the previous night washed, start a load of laundry and get Chris's lunch and coffee made for the day! I am also going to start spending some of my morning time exercising! :) It's a wonderful feeling to be awake and *going* when the rest of the house rises from slumber!

Madelyn and Xavier...busy with schoolwork...

A *letter* just for me...from Jaxson...

He used pencil, so it is a bit hard to make out (below)...but to the left is a drawing of Chris and I am to the right. Above our heads are lots of hearts! :) Of course, this art is now displayed in a place of honor: the refridgerator! :o)

I have been working on crocheting some dish cloths to fill an order...

Here are the first two I finished...

And although, in this photo the third cloth is still being worked on, it is now finished as well and I am working on the fourth! :)

I am really enjoying crocheting. Overall, I like the look of most knitted items more than crocheted... however, I really enjoy crocheting dish cloths. It's nice to be able to do both: knit & crochet. It gives some variety in the items I make! It's also easier on my fingers, which can ache when doing one or the other for too long.

It's wet and windy outside, but surprisingly warm...the temperature indoors is 67* without the heat from the woodstove! It looks like we may have a few rainy days ahead of us (if the weather forecast is accurate)...which affords much time indoors; candles lit, schoolwork, housework, reading, crocheting/knitting, games, movies and the like. We have schoolwork to tackle today...at the moment, though, the children are playing happily and I am letting it happen. It's good to get a bit of energy out before buckling down on our studies!

I will randomly pick a winner for my giveaway, soon (Noon, EST). If you haven't yet, but would like to...please go and enter! I will email the winner! :o)

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

~A Grateful Heart~

2011-11-11T08:52:00.000-05:00

Lately, I have been especially thankful for God's love shown in giving me my husband. I delight in him and am grateful for who he is, through Christ. We have grown and matured so much in the years...starting out as silly, foolish children. Our love has blossomed and our wisdom grown through the years. He is truly my best friend...and just the man I needed to share this life with. God's wisdom and goodness are perfect!

There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage.

~ Martin Luther

Let the wife make the husband glad to come home, and let him make her sorry to see him leave.

~ Martin Luther

In looking for something, yesterday, I came across some items that sparked memories of the past (pre-Chris). Memories that made me laugh and also some that made me cringe at my behavior...and who I *was*. Oh, how thankful I am to not be that girl anymore (although not through any goodness of my own)!

For the truth is...none of us are good enough as we are; no, not one. I was wicked, selfish, and absolutely wretched (although, at the time, I thought I behaved how "normal" teenagers did). How thankful I am that God drew me to Him...called me to be His. He changed my heart which caused me to repent and have faith in Him. Jesus loved me enough to cleanse my sins and make me pure in front of a Holy and Just God. May I never forget the wretchedness He saved me out of!

I think John Newton expressed my thoughts well when he said:

Yet, though I am not what I ought to be,

nor what I wish to be,

nor what I hope to be,

I can truly say,

I am not what I once was;a slave to sin and Satan;

and I can heartily join with the apostle, and acknowledge,

‘By the grace of God I am what I am.’

~John Newton

I have photos to share, from around-about here at home. Just simple things...each something I am truly thankful for...

Madelyn, diligently working away on her knitting...

Lots (and lots) of yarn...

A recent custom order I finished...

Another custom order was for two hats...here is one...

And the other is for a young baby...I made a lining for in it, as well. I want the little one's head to be nice, snug and warm in it's hat!

I am also working on some crocheted dish cloths that have been ordered! :)

Schoolwork keeps the children and I busy each morning...

My mom stopped by, the other day, and Jaxson and Madelyn hurried out to greet her in their blanket-cloaks...

After enjoying some warmer fall days...today I see, as I look out the window, gentle flurries of snow flying through the air going this way and that. It is a definite sign that the temperature has dropped! I am thankful for the woodstove though. It's warm and cozy inside (sometimes too warm).

The children are playing right now...but soon we will begin a little math, handwriting, reading and language arts. I am unsure of what the afternoon holds. I would like to get to the bank and also do a little grocery shopping...but the weather, right now, sure encourages a body to stay indoors, bundled in an afghan! I am thankful that it is another day that the Lord has made!

I hope you will, if you haven't already, enter the giveaway I have going on HERE. You don't have to be a follower of my blog, nor do you have to be a blogger! You have the chance to win a wonderful Christian book! I hope you will check it out!

I started my day at 3:45 this morning (goodness, I am an early bird, eh?) but now I need to *continue* my day...so I best be off this computer and onto more important things! I hope you have a wonderful weekend...and thank-you for visiting!

Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied,
Katy

The Grace Effect: Review & Giveaway! (closed)

2011-11-09T04:00:00.006-05:00

"Through the inward transformation of the individual, there is a corresponding outward transformation of society. This is what I call the "grace effect". Simply defined, it is an observable phenomenon--that life is demonstrably better where authentic Christianity flourishes."

~Larry Alex Taunton, The Grace Effect p.22

I have spent my free time, the past couple of weeks, reading The Grace Effect by Larry Alex Taunton. What a powerful book! It's one I found hard to put down. Imagine with me, if you will, a world without Christianity...filled with atheists and complete socialism, people only looking out for themselves and how to line their pockets. This mental picture would give you a pretty accurate description of Ukraine.

This is just what Larry Alex Taunton, his wife and two sons found when they arrived in Ukraine to adopt an orphan named Sasha, a young girl whose entire life had been void of true love. This book outlines the many frustrations they had to endure while going through the process of adopting this child. Through the story, Taunton weaves more than just a tale of adoption...he describes the beautiful way grace can change a person.

If you would like to purchase a copy of The Grace Effect, you can find it HERE.

The Country Blossom

Wednesday Thoughts

*Child-like Faith*

Love is the thing...

~ A Bit of This & That~

Hooray! Eloise turns *ONE* today!

*Warmth*

Yarn Projects

Warm Thoughts on a Blustery Cold Day

Jan*u*ary...

A Bit of a Boo-Boo

Baking, Chores, Schooling & Skyping...

Moments at Home

Making a Chore Chart

"Winter is...

My Favorite Little Gnome!

"Glory to God in highest heaven...."

A Fond Farewell To December 2011

~ The Wife at Home ~

Sweetness of Life

Memories in Pictures

Days of December

The Makings of a Wood Shed

This Little Life of Mine

Simple Living: Vacuum-Sealed Freezing

Making Caramels

December Happenings...

It's Deer Season...

Giving Thanks for Jaxson

Wisdom from Ann and Anne

The Hair Cut

"The smell of good bread baking...

Rainy Days

A Bit of Change in the Living Room!

"For each new morning with its light,

Simple Busyness

"Books to the ceiling...

A Glorious Day in November

Let Them Be Little

A Bit of Joy on a Rainy Day!

"It is not how much we have...

~A Grateful Heart~

The Grace Effect: Review & Giveaway! (closed)

Child-like Faith

Hooray! Eloise turns ONE today!

Warmth

January...