tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44637781029945448172024-02-06T21:03:14.035-08:00Mission Minded Motheringhumbly mothering with our mission in mindMyahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.comBlogger957125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-61690498351013437152014-06-01T11:10:00.001-07:002014-06-01T14:06:12.184-07:00Hello, my dear readers!Hello! I've missed you all and writing in this space. As many of you know, I've gone back and forth with privacy settings on this blog. It's crazy, isn't it? With such easy access to information about people... I didn't ever imagine that it would mess with me so much. I want to share about our days and our journey, but then I worry I'm putting too much out there for the entire world to read about our family. What's the perfect balance for my family? I don't know. That's why I've gone back and forth so much! :) You may have recently received an email update from Mission Minded Mothering, and that's because I just took off the privacy setting again. I wanted to lead you to another space we've started. More specific details will come soon - but I'm switching gears and praying hard about starting a business! A Homeschool, Lifestyle blog. For now, let me introduce to you - www.chicksandtoads.blogspot.com. It's all about keeping things simple and trying to better today than we were yesterday.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">At <a href="http://www.chicksandtoads.blogspot.com/">Chicks and Toads</a>, you'll find me writing about our lives at home, education and beyond. We homeschool 2 (ages 8 and 5) of our children and 1(age 10) goes away to a public school, so it can be a space for all people fascinated about living a life of going against the grain, slowing down and trying to be better today than we were yesterday.</span></b></span><br />
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">So, before I lock down my former blogs, I have a favor to ask - if you're a reader here, would you please hop on over to follow <a href="http://www.chicksandtoads.blogspot.com/">Chicks and Toads</a>? Follow through blogger and/or sign up to receive the email updates. Also, please share with any of your friends who may also enjoy following along!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><b>1 more favor! What are some of your favorite posts here? I'll be sure to move them over to Chicks and Toads!</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><b>And... 1 more favor: Would you pray for me? That God would lead me where I'm supposed to go? Thank you! <3</b></span></div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-50588431222116364322013-09-20T13:32:00.001-07:002013-09-20T13:32:35.914-07:00 <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1jIYixPXNsb3XEo5HQ5UTvc0m645UjOLiZ3qoayV3TEDLdlk6dpBiNrPuU977DoMe6FJYNZDgDfoFcde7jq5-Q_hEM6eUQoROX0tmkdv6Vb_lGhqtDLtpC7v1NHqXFyIvar-vtaqLVUr/s640/blogger-image-878279021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1jIYixPXNsb3XEo5HQ5UTvc0m645UjOLiZ3qoayV3TEDLdlk6dpBiNrPuU977DoMe6FJYNZDgDfoFcde7jq5-Q_hEM6eUQoROX0tmkdv6Vb_lGhqtDLtpC7v1NHqXFyIvar-vtaqLVUr/s640/blogger-image-878279021.jpg" /></a></div>Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-1902612762752115362013-09-19T19:49:00.001-07:002013-09-19T19:49:42.421-07:00Fall book basket: <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxB8icTBK6Ytb8E0dHjFoeDjFXFLboSDIsQmvIkcS6DDpeFxZAZ_VqWx5RBw04b4MUye07oDH9R75CDuiHiVznwp_DkXKPijHbKd1F7AfrAKDY5TK0VMkIu_eZ9QuZRo-9lzwLnoagfhbm/s640/blogger-image-1497184516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxB8icTBK6Ytb8E0dHjFoeDjFXFLboSDIsQmvIkcS6DDpeFxZAZ_VqWx5RBw04b4MUye07oDH9R75CDuiHiVznwp_DkXKPijHbKd1F7AfrAKDY5TK0VMkIu_eZ9QuZRo-9lzwLnoagfhbm/s640/blogger-image-1497184516.jpg" /></a></div>Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-83186766478836660572013-09-19T18:54:00.001-07:002013-09-19T19:01:39.271-07:00How to make butter...<div style="text-align: center;">
The little chicks and toad and I had a super fun day today continuing our study of Pilgrims and making butter!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>How to make butter:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:: Buy a pint of organic heavy cream.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:: Fill a glass jar with a tight fitting lid 1/2 way full.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:: Shake for 15 minutes.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqaKHgpXtaouGcUUyry2tCtijrgp7N8904c2naIcbh-nzLSvcaT0eIe3fOsvslW2mUKwJPGihmYoIfpM9Rx8ChVrzDvRHmjXBW9EcaZCauQ0gzzFjqzdyu_NuZbeEAzt_CoHJ84hkL-Eu/s640/blogger-image-588930891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqaKHgpXtaouGcUUyry2tCtijrgp7N8904c2naIcbh-nzLSvcaT0eIe3fOsvslW2mUKwJPGihmYoIfpM9Rx8ChVrzDvRHmjXBW9EcaZCauQ0gzzFjqzdyu_NuZbeEAzt_CoHJ84hkL-Eu/s640/blogger-image-588930891.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: When the shaking gets boring and everyone's ready to give in, turn on The Cha Cha Slide.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: You'll start to notice that the cream is turning hard, and you're not hearing liquid shaking around.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4U4td5hhtaBiIncTMA4sD6o1OjZ23GwXTdcUg5U12UTTAQyBna-VpOVYzv1QOgcMNL8a83D122lcjw6epOgcixmcDhrXIGKK-b-NcIxucefNFLl5I6UD7lprExg4z2dQWNQfv5Mjx7BsD/s640/blogger-image--588511485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4U4td5hhtaBiIncTMA4sD6o1OjZ23GwXTdcUg5U12UTTAQyBna-VpOVYzv1QOgcMNL8a83D122lcjw6epOgcixmcDhrXIGKK-b-NcIxucefNFLl5I6UD7lprExg4z2dQWNQfv5Mjx7BsD/s640/blogger-image--588511485.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: Add a little salt to taste.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJc6uxjM2GdJ1HpV7sMBvAGNBHFZsXMLn-A_lq8fstZ4JPhtCmdpK85ArSwaxJTf6jYMKyXzxrQOEAnZzuRWzZweYluhWG2WuSmZxTxIjySeUyQVAlk9htIShPYV8MPHQcRb1NPs0kvfbV/s640/blogger-image-388644795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJc6uxjM2GdJ1HpV7sMBvAGNBHFZsXMLn-A_lq8fstZ4JPhtCmdpK85ArSwaxJTf6jYMKyXzxrQOEAnZzuRWzZweYluhWG2WuSmZxTxIjySeUyQVAlk9htIShPYV8MPHQcRb1NPs0kvfbV/s640/blogger-image-388644795.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: Taste it.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQv7o3qM0YZF05Moui5JnJgRXtzrtxsroZpBJlqSqdR4nliQUtzQq1gEG9BSUGHEOduDAeYUb_a-kN-JrlaRALQT0MpisCznqc4v0g2cT0sutUhCVh2Q7_kSs949SvRtfbofupB5mXAIv/s640/blogger-image-707092476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQv7o3qM0YZF05Moui5JnJgRXtzrtxsroZpBJlqSqdR4nliQUtzQq1gEG9BSUGHEOduDAeYUb_a-kN-JrlaRALQT0MpisCznqc4v0g2cT0sutUhCVh2Q7_kSs949SvRtfbofupB5mXAIv/s640/blogger-image-707092476.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: mmmmm!!!! It's sooo good!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: All gone.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5c2sar4T9_S0pcAISjL0h7mAoBjW1nbo55ipw3DknLhTyrO49xnXKQ7QL4iiAEwvnAOCnHdGqOWWWhoSSrtAQIESZKXdPvOxwZKsCeQ4mPFlcwQ95zjeeaneLmsVyzZx7JstpMYFqWyy/s640/blogger-image--1027016212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5c2sar4T9_S0pcAISjL0h7mAoBjW1nbo55ipw3DknLhTyrO49xnXKQ7QL4iiAEwvnAOCnHdGqOWWWhoSSrtAQIESZKXdPvOxwZKsCeQ4mPFlcwQ95zjeeaneLmsVyzZx7JstpMYFqWyy/s640/blogger-image--1027016212.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So simple and fun!</div>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-44028876041114947642013-08-30T19:10:00.001-07:002013-08-30T19:27:51.953-07:00Virtue of the month...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimodc-fBNa2O3hL_UTlDrsyY4K81-aJIW2dsgOiOitU9mvqECFPnJXnQyD2HAlWB4hbq8X2e8z1TsYNMRM6lBEjnHsF0hX1kz4dujAmHV_BRvDlPGUjO_6RMbj0Tm5XawzZHu-H1-Be1ug/s640/blogger-image--1596100349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimodc-fBNa2O3hL_UTlDrsyY4K81-aJIW2dsgOiOitU9mvqECFPnJXnQyD2HAlWB4hbq8X2e8z1TsYNMRM6lBEjnHsF0hX1kz4dujAmHV_BRvDlPGUjO_6RMbj0Tm5XawzZHu-H1-Be1ug/s640/blogger-image--1596100349.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After listening to a talk on the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_18?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=parenting%20with%20scripture&sprefix=parenting+with+scr%2Caps%2C509&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aparenting%20with%20scripture">Parenting with Scripture</a>, I rushed home, logged on to Amazon (yay, Amazon!!) and purchased the book. No regrets! I must share.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's logical, so simple, spiritual and wonderful!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been choosing a virtue of the month, using the book as my guide, posting the virtue on our darling chalkboard in a high traffic location and talking about it as the teachable moments arise.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The book defines the virtue and provides specific scripture, discussion questions, action steps and parenting tips. Everything is so simple and easy to use - appropriate for my 4 year old - 9 year old.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For August, we discussing being "self-centered". Imagine that! <3</div>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-81359696942665406782013-08-21T15:17:00.001-07:002013-08-21T15:51:42.145-07:00A glimpse of our days...<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We've had a really great start to the school year. Last week (Wed-Fri) was what I like to call the honeymoon phase. I love structure, so I was very happy to be getting back into the swing of things - after a beautiful summer. This week was a little more difficult. For me, there's a little funk that comes with back to school - even loving structure.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Monday was fine. On Tuesday, I felt very heavy. Almost like life was a mountain that I just couldn't climb. I didn't sleep well on Sunday and Monday nights, so by Tuesday morning - I just felt heavy. Very tired and overwhelmed. I sunk down into my chair in my little happy place, where my bible and other favorite books are located, and I just felt too tired to take on the day. So, I opened my bible and went straight to Psalms. Psalms is medicine for me. Psalms and my garden.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOKJVCyDwT71Sv0ah-n916fE2I-8RtgJ9pKmKQZmg7oUEJCjJkgjY1HIPo9a5hX8aRr6HD8GtH9O-OMX4_dNm2Sc-cR7fkMQEOnoXYD9H85o5ZgHPVhpj9tO84EiaKaPkBiVMq7xyOm1j/s640/blogger-image--1182694868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOKJVCyDwT71Sv0ah-n916fE2I-8RtgJ9pKmKQZmg7oUEJCjJkgjY1HIPo9a5hX8aRr6HD8GtH9O-OMX4_dNm2Sc-cR7fkMQEOnoXYD9H85o5ZgHPVhpj9tO84EiaKaPkBiVMq7xyOm1j/s640/blogger-image--1182694868.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On Tuesday, my bad day, I admitted to the kids by 10:30 a.m. that my behavior was unacceptable. I ordered everyone out to the garden. Take off your shoes, everyone must be barefoot, and we're harvesting. The sun shone down on our little souls, and I was healing. The earth will do that to me. Goodness, I love God and all He created and the medicine of it all.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWQW-RwNi3MRRMIRoQTSwAG8E_IJthznoklAlZeiGpVr5M69bhjqT_lKT7QNJH3LlivoRp9EH_mS-F92Wsp6WONb4PMCmS2KWj6gapCpMVVxwGqgAm_NRk92QvquI3K0NU_E_c4GTemFO/s640/blogger-image-1418136005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWQW-RwNi3MRRMIRoQTSwAG8E_IJthznoklAlZeiGpVr5M69bhjqT_lKT7QNJH3LlivoRp9EH_mS-F92Wsp6WONb4PMCmS2KWj6gapCpMVVxwGqgAm_NRk92QvquI3K0NU_E_c4GTemFO/s640/blogger-image-1418136005.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAq1VKYUnJ_ldogO_29gjIilOG_LtvGxa-v-XRrzbmOIK1-dXjIDLpvvZ4QtPx8Da6CiAxDEKoaFAZ4vlulPLcNackVMZJzClrzVWxM00m-RNY79H8x3TsMIjYI43EVsGTMuCvjHZG8wSI/s640/blogger-image-1442363598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAq1VKYUnJ_ldogO_29gjIilOG_LtvGxa-v-XRrzbmOIK1-dXjIDLpvvZ4QtPx8Da6CiAxDEKoaFAZ4vlulPLcNackVMZJzClrzVWxM00m-RNY79H8x3TsMIjYI43EVsGTMuCvjHZG8wSI/s640/blogger-image-1442363598.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjAYpTPQ3sMp0vN33EydXatJqHk3-L8uhy7pt5bXShvucxJxyKOE7bHbawZtdfW8ibxtd77egH8_3JfNOOjQvVT1_O2fOJGKRaHW5jJ18OnNBNBX3VaU-4YHKaaBMV187IqeKhpKlkkqn/s640/blogger-image-731318032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjAYpTPQ3sMp0vN33EydXatJqHk3-L8uhy7pt5bXShvucxJxyKOE7bHbawZtdfW8ibxtd77egH8_3JfNOOjQvVT1_O2fOJGKRaHW5jJ18OnNBNBX3VaU-4YHKaaBMV187IqeKhpKlkkqn/s640/blogger-image-731318032.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are a few phrases that continue to run through my mind as I face the days and walk through the moments that I just don't feel strong enough to climb.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: I <b>GET</b> to do this. I'm so grateful that I get to do this.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: What a <b>GIFT</b> - this life, for me and my children.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: <b>SHELTER</b>. This word can be twisted into such a negative, but what a beautiful gift this is to our children. Sheltering for as long as we can. They have a lot of nasty to look forward to in life. Let's shelter for as long as we can.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Oh Lord, I love You and the Holy Spirit and Your word that breathes life and phrases into my soul and mind when I'm feeling too heavy to walk another step. I pray that You would whisper into the hearts of all the mothers out there who are feeling too heavy to face the day. Remind them that it's a gift to mother. What a gift.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-52056445327063217902013-08-19T17:28:00.000-07:002013-08-19T17:28:09.666-07:00First Day of School...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a fabulous first day of school!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sophie is in 4th grade and is attending a fabulous public school in our neighborhood.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcy01mqdpL_g40AQyP_qb1N5bkWGlQ5a9UmRpcrKVmqwEdoawJXc6FYug-DSP4Swbi1uPSrdGkQoyTzv92Pq913Wokci7Vd1JazxZnVd51jwSCYhh_eZKX2wHPlzWb1uxRhHWsf8bzaWr/s1600/IMG_2842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcy01mqdpL_g40AQyP_qb1N5bkWGlQ5a9UmRpcrKVmqwEdoawJXc6FYug-DSP4Swbi1uPSrdGkQoyTzv92Pq913Wokci7Vd1JazxZnVd51jwSCYhh_eZKX2wHPlzWb1uxRhHWsf8bzaWr/s320/IMG_2842.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She was very excited and a little nervous for the first day of school.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She did great walking in and finding her seat.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHcao-ilGu8AqAeqZbTcfkTPajTvqdSycmt31dnPIl17_bM4vDLJcDZ58_b30DTp_XlKv2sLydEMrjPGYQYEzBl3rOoQM2Lgg3-EUIwpzZLa_mZ2WAJNYLf6_lHtlhfHAbuBWpDMbz1-5/s1600/IMG_2843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHcao-ilGu8AqAeqZbTcfkTPajTvqdSycmt31dnPIl17_bM4vDLJcDZ58_b30DTp_XlKv2sLydEMrjPGYQYEzBl3rOoQM2Lgg3-EUIwpzZLa_mZ2WAJNYLf6_lHtlhfHAbuBWpDMbz1-5/s320/IMG_2843.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Halle and Ian are enjoying school at home this year. Halle is in 2nd grade and Ian is in his last year of preschool. He will be a kindergartener next school year - crazy! :(</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have a lovely homeschool bestie, Katie Grace. Her mother and I love working together and help each other out the best we can. They are both such an answer to prayer!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj69Xx9aUsPocKD1GNbrnnd7lxjjUNDNGje20cp38XVd4Hco0D00nvnItLZ9ndToOibNn3OrdxnsACmBOIPlmbA3lMz_zQQ48SnsoZ-HSYZjrdcEuQ_Ov27cZo_hcrFVu7ApBOGCSScnsqv/s1600/IMG_2844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj69Xx9aUsPocKD1GNbrnnd7lxjjUNDNGje20cp38XVd4Hco0D00nvnItLZ9ndToOibNn3OrdxnsACmBOIPlmbA3lMz_zQQ48SnsoZ-HSYZjrdcEuQ_Ov27cZo_hcrFVu7ApBOGCSScnsqv/s320/IMG_2844.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After we got Sophie off to school, we packed up our math, spelling and a few books and headed to the park.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The girls enjoying doing their math outside at the park.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I just love this picture!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpeJijmaVVsw5J6DjtMx0mQ3ITUphIjWaiXrL2JnKL9Qk3Y_kjcQplmVAYj5k3lZgJ725tR8V9pIwldnxccGNSezCJtXq6_VOc9OeY8M-HiOCY03i9nClT0nnQmDX_xBTCs_nD8Az9Iam/s1600/IMG_2845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpeJijmaVVsw5J6DjtMx0mQ3ITUphIjWaiXrL2JnKL9Qk3Y_kjcQplmVAYj5k3lZgJ725tR8V9pIwldnxccGNSezCJtXq6_VOc9OeY8M-HiOCY03i9nClT0nnQmDX_xBTCs_nD8Az9Iam/s320/IMG_2845.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They also spent about 2 hours building the best fairy house EVER! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was incredible.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6aifbXhnsvWdSnS6V_nor_EbLYbdfT1mZtXQNQ9q4-Dm8K6iyeQ-YFDpiu5HZIznMflUSLZSX8YT9aFTS0Vum3YfJ50G8vwcCT0bcqjvVbj7ApLQY8L3JRzcpDQxkk_9woW7e1lLsfIj/s1600/IMG_2846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6aifbXhnsvWdSnS6V_nor_EbLYbdfT1mZtXQNQ9q4-Dm8K6iyeQ-YFDpiu5HZIznMflUSLZSX8YT9aFTS0Vum3YfJ50G8vwcCT0bcqjvVbj7ApLQY8L3JRzcpDQxkk_9woW7e1lLsfIj/s320/IMG_2846.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And then they walked 1 mile - preparing for their kids marathon in September.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a fabulous morning.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVZ3Nlhv6_7Q6vO_fgY5tHaL-FnJrOvLNM-Tle_sn8J4tmZ5l_s0b9z9IxmhpOz7ugUnESAYuVcbfDwv5mKS0KlueAEydWeKVzfwHpJDzo7kCjaSItKnCrnWjwaBcHSGShxzr3g-GXVZs/s1600/IMG_2849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVZ3Nlhv6_7Q6vO_fgY5tHaL-FnJrOvLNM-Tle_sn8J4tmZ5l_s0b9z9IxmhpOz7ugUnESAYuVcbfDwv5mKS0KlueAEydWeKVzfwHpJDzo7kCjaSItKnCrnWjwaBcHSGShxzr3g-GXVZs/s320/IMG_2849.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I forgot to get a picture of the cookies. :) Just left over milk and crumbs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We baked cookies for us all to enjoy, celebrated the first day of school and eagerly welcomed Sophie home. We were happy to have her home and back with us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a fabulous first day of school! <3</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am soooo excited about this school year! </div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-50058638086076336382013-08-08T05:56:00.000-07:002013-08-08T05:59:47.754-07:00The UnWired Mom Challenge...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sarahmae.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/unwiredchallengebutton1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://sarahmae.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/unwiredchallengebutton1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm participated in this for the next 14 days! I wanted to invite each of you to join in.<br />
<br />
You can read all about it <a href="http://sarahmae.com/2013/08/join-the-unwired-mom-challenge/">here</a>.</div>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-4244157652283262572013-08-05T19:11:00.000-07:002013-08-05T19:22:18.610-07:00Catching Toads...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Is there anything simpler than the joy that comes from catching a toad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8l3Blvf9Oh7xcOTIWlol1h496cqOuEtqZprg5EiIw4Pf1Ny2ACEX9BA_tJUSLcBZtGdeL-PcMayab1if2_m1LVOEq1kHUvKGZc3aUSFqHC_eDo7ktu8u48TYwxfFRb-13Jjt8Fw0FU5Zn/s1600/DSC_7391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8l3Blvf9Oh7xcOTIWlol1h496cqOuEtqZprg5EiIw4Pf1Ny2ACEX9BA_tJUSLcBZtGdeL-PcMayab1if2_m1LVOEq1kHUvKGZc3aUSFqHC_eDo7ktu8u48TYwxfFRb-13Jjt8Fw0FU5Zn/s400/DSC_7391.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You may be out on a different journey - when all of a sudden, the movement in the grass catches your attention. Everything comes to a stop and all your focus and attention goes towards catching that toad.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCRVzdYIq5In9pRZUYVkfc9SiDNpWIsuDj0bmT7gU7-VhxzIn7uLI3N5LbVcQ1SYgbvoGmtg5etBW9FN3VkA95snBonoi9JUs_mYAtFo4S0Hh7l8L3wibyPewfb3jfUjskPMkuy9ZKhiT/s1600/DSC_7392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCRVzdYIq5In9pRZUYVkfc9SiDNpWIsuDj0bmT7gU7-VhxzIn7uLI3N5LbVcQ1SYgbvoGmtg5etBW9FN3VkA95snBonoi9JUs_mYAtFo4S0Hh7l8L3wibyPewfb3jfUjskPMkuy9ZKhiT/s400/DSC_7392.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And when you finally catch her, you're so happy.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyqxObbC8pgJFeMFR1P44Jlgqm9j53efgwadyjZ2pVh4DVMIzfDnTRGcliuPn7JDvjhm0F4QHtG_pxef4FX3s__yEbfr_oZrxPO-RpgYsEs4XeujJYjiHPDUFCMyZD4jE-OKTH4yKI8u4/s1600/DSC_7393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyqxObbC8pgJFeMFR1P44Jlgqm9j53efgwadyjZ2pVh4DVMIzfDnTRGcliuPn7JDvjhm0F4QHtG_pxef4FX3s__yEbfr_oZrxPO-RpgYsEs4XeujJYjiHPDUFCMyZD4jE-OKTH4yKI8u4/s400/DSC_7393.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Your hard work and determination pays off.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1yEDTPbMebJeC1A7uOHO6EzhUml-OKmpx8Ee9Ezd3A4MT-x4tXFKLESkihvKahyphenhyphen-HjL1rBbcC6a_VQR8-K9P8U-Zneq5CNFRTur-BU6VZA3AOh6-1AHWQw-2__cSw-PewTkMinS1thQ7/s1600/DSC_7394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1yEDTPbMebJeC1A7uOHO6EzhUml-OKmpx8Ee9Ezd3A4MT-x4tXFKLESkihvKahyphenhyphen-HjL1rBbcC6a_VQR8-K9P8U-Zneq5CNFRTur-BU6VZA3AOh6-1AHWQw-2__cSw-PewTkMinS1thQ7/s640/DSC_7394.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtf6mXv8t3Dcl0ERAxRkpiiFAD_li-Sy44VxmSpOzQ_7ZJ2IBpUS4GU9I0-Q-wpenLy4MSz8S1EPQutp1VpQ77FWBBGOa-kWlYm1SD_2I4VrpUohb7lzT3bMiEcryxiXLhw_-W_jNJkOM/s1600/DSC_7395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtf6mXv8t3Dcl0ERAxRkpiiFAD_li-Sy44VxmSpOzQ_7ZJ2IBpUS4GU9I0-Q-wpenLy4MSz8S1EPQutp1VpQ77FWBBGOa-kWlYm1SD_2I4VrpUohb7lzT3bMiEcryxiXLhw_-W_jNJkOM/s400/DSC_7395.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You may chit chat for a bit and maybe tell her about your day.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxXVIHjPUVql3pp1fs-PVuHLTFd_4P_WoPImYw0lPD2Y4eKTY4QPWigRsCfdTG2UOt5EO3dyKScPEaxsWDpKOqvyqPEuT-VwkCINCVX2vZDOXN3rDnK6SFNfst1N9bGhRu4gix3F_oOW_/s1600/DSC_7396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxXVIHjPUVql3pp1fs-PVuHLTFd_4P_WoPImYw0lPD2Y4eKTY4QPWigRsCfdTG2UOt5EO3dyKScPEaxsWDpKOqvyqPEuT-VwkCINCVX2vZDOXN3rDnK6SFNfst1N9bGhRu4gix3F_oOW_/s400/DSC_7396.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And then it gets better... you find the Momma's baby and catch her!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8C7xbOICjjOeJMLgHQEmVnSyISSYRplzC50xXtvvdu1Z_K_yodnwe7CJHXtCEZUJgjkN23bOY_a54BT1QJjm0dPMPhaVRLFCLIzBcU1dF31DIGId9oK-UgyI5zgKGauxSbjM0-0ZRwk3/s1600/DSC_7400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8C7xbOICjjOeJMLgHQEmVnSyISSYRplzC50xXtvvdu1Z_K_yodnwe7CJHXtCEZUJgjkN23bOY_a54BT1QJjm0dPMPhaVRLFCLIzBcU1dF31DIGId9oK-UgyI5zgKGauxSbjM0-0ZRwk3/s400/DSC_7400.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Momma and her baby.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfNBaFH0-KLSc6-vnjVRlmznVLYJ7u3DJuoXzQyXyvAYlp5dUjBe09Sg2dA1cY-5yDdlb-mZWHEcfac8a9bI32Bn9RmR9wK_5VgC-xQiVXhXXK-Jmj7ucK4oa9kvflQH8r04hBED6MTCi/s1600/DSC_7401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfNBaFH0-KLSc6-vnjVRlmznVLYJ7u3DJuoXzQyXyvAYlp5dUjBe09Sg2dA1cY-5yDdlb-mZWHEcfac8a9bI32Bn9RmR9wK_5VgC-xQiVXhXXK-Jmj7ucK4oa9kvflQH8r04hBED6MTCi/s400/DSC_7401.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Baby, you are so sweet...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoLI3GxNRXbWbjbq0niXn0EAIKewJNT1FEjlCb-x92C4E8D-avT746tpij8FFwxWYWuA4To9RaE5blsX3SfnUmydZ0qLq7GvEAnKomNpbSHyj_upFuQ8NBVSjucZe8upgZ8bOBIsmhAVU/s1600/DSC_7402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoLI3GxNRXbWbjbq0niXn0EAIKewJNT1FEjlCb-x92C4E8D-avT746tpij8FFwxWYWuA4To9RaE5blsX3SfnUmydZ0qLq7GvEAnKomNpbSHyj_upFuQ8NBVSjucZe8upgZ8bOBIsmhAVU/s400/DSC_7402.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and tiny.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6LchVk80XPzdJB9xD7tW7rhFOPIjaeAlKNcw38PcjKXQbaaK7-LeJRFfuErZ6Kb4gqgBYuHVRdT3hZcsCzK9c6DRVR1b8e1lSodb6BSyY9Utrp8Tb7Z-4inyA9b-NkkPiIjo65-csRUF/s1600/DSC_7403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6LchVk80XPzdJB9xD7tW7rhFOPIjaeAlKNcw38PcjKXQbaaK7-LeJRFfuErZ6Kb4gqgBYuHVRdT3hZcsCzK9c6DRVR1b8e1lSodb6BSyY9Utrp8Tb7Z-4inyA9b-NkkPiIjo65-csRUF/s400/DSC_7403.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I even thought the little baby was so precious.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV5Ho7h4rA3bwnhqjFJ-Pm76_ENcCi5hcbpwdqUwfBC7U547R8eM_2kteWIHD0U__nZ48YFXjjZH__TvFgVItAYfrinu6D9i0HJJyk2kcdifby8ylNTImSd6NM7FSxxxX9-Ogv2VEcDbCT/s1600/DSC_7404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV5Ho7h4rA3bwnhqjFJ-Pm76_ENcCi5hcbpwdqUwfBC7U547R8eM_2kteWIHD0U__nZ48YFXjjZH__TvFgVItAYfrinu6D9i0HJJyk2kcdifby8ylNTImSd6NM7FSxxxX9-Ogv2VEcDbCT/s400/DSC_7404.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
May we all take the time to slow down and focus on the simple joys and beauty around us. Maybe it's not a toad, but slow down. It's there. We just need to take the time to notice.</div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-33177393131068602582013-08-01T11:51:00.000-07:002013-08-01T11:51:08.789-07:00Please subscribe for email delivery...HI, friends! As most of you know, we have recently made the decision to make our life a little more private, fall off of FB and privatize this blog. Balance is what I like to call it, not isolation. I love social media. I love people. I love my friends. I really, really love sharing our life and knowing about others, but I'm trying to downsize a bit, reclaim some privacy and set a positive example for our children. It's gotten to the point where we feel it's just TMI - just too much information. I'm on information overload and feeling pulled and distracted in my mind and with my actions. I'm reeling it back in a bit.<br />
<br />
This blog is one of my favorite places out there in the internet world. I love sharing our journey with my friends and family. I hope you all will continue to love and encourage me as I share our life with you. :) A friend recently asked me about my blog, why I blog and what is my purpose. <br />
<br />
My response:<br />
<br />
<div class="_2w7 _8o _8t lfloat" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; float: left; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 1px;">
<a data-reactid=".r[2rziy]" href="https://www.facebook.com/myah.john" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><img class="img _50dv" data-reactid=".r[2rziy].[0]" height="32" src="https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-ash4/s32x32/371916_1061944579_52362216_q.jpg" style="border: 0px; display: block;" width="32" /></a></div>
<div class="clearfix _42ef" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 14px; overflow: hidden; zoom: 1;">
<div class="rfloat" style="float: right; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<a class="_b9" data-hovercard-instant="1" href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4463778102994544817" role="button" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: default;"><abbr class="_35 timestamp" data-utime="1360520866.062" style="border-bottom-style: none; color: #bfbfbf; display: inline-block; vertical-align: middle;" title="February 10">1:27pm</abbr></a><br />
<div class="_39" style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div class="_3a" style="text-align: right;">
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<strong class="_36" style="display: block; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1; margin: 1px 0px 4px;"><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/hovercard.php?id=1061944579&extragetparams=%7B%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/myah.john" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;">Myah St John</a></strong></div>
<div class="_37">
<div style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong></strong></span></div>
<div class="_53" id="mid.1360520866025:f9818a722b9014c560">
<div class="_3hi clearfix" style="zoom: 1;">
<div class="_38 direction_ltr" style="direction: ltr; line-height: 1.38; margin-right: 50px;">
<div style="font-size: 13px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Hello! Yes, I do have a blog and have been writing since 2005. </span></i></div>
<div style="font-size: 13px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The #1 reason I write a blog is for my family. It's a fun and easy way to capture our family's journey, my journey as a Mother and all the ups and downs that come our way. I have each year printed into book form, so I'm totally pumped for my kids to have the blog in book form later in life. I hope that it blesses them in many ways for the rest of their lives. </span></i></div>
<div style="font-size: 13px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">You can have a private blog or a public blog. I choose to have it public with the hope that I'm encouraging others out there! It's such a joy to write and know that I'm blessing other women around the world. I receive emails from women - at times - letting me know how much they enjoy it and what they get out of it. That is super fun to hear!! If others find my blog inspiring in some way - then bonus! If not, that's ok too. There are lots of other blogs out there to choose from.</span></i></div>
<div style="margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div style="font-size: 13px;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My goal has never been to make $ - although that would be nice!! I've thought about working a little harder, scheduling in writing time and trying to make it more of a career. I'm just not there yet."</span></i></div>
<div style="font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So... although I've chosen to leave the FB world, I know that I must keep writing and sharing. It's therapeutic for me, and I want this for my children. If others find it inspiring along the way - then that just touches my heart!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I've chosen to make this blog private to protect my family. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If you are reading this now, you are one of my precious friends who has spoken up and asked to be included in the Mission Minded Mothering world. I'm so blessed. I have the best friends and family ever. I want you to know that I love you and you are some of my biggest cheerleaders. Being a Mother is THE HARDEST thing I've ever done. I need love and encouragement from you. <b>You cannot isolate yourself as a Mother.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Thank you </b>for speaking up and joining in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Back to the title... look to the right of the screen and subscribe to this blog via email. That way, you don't have to keep checking in. Each post will be delivered directly to your inbox. I'm trying to make this as simple as FB! :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Again, I love you and I'm excited about our changes!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">May the Lord fill my mind with words that will bless my friends and family.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<ul class="uiList _2ne _4kg" role="log" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
</ul>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-36184771462435212192013-06-21T10:51:00.001-07:002013-06-21T10:51:35.248-07:00Summer...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNXLoifO9jjorgQIwsyBfhyphenhyphenv3mH5mfzYYHnaKK2X6qq7hwaxDbegS4rSwSWwE9Vvdt3q8d3M3gEIuK-UTCIO9uhME76biEf6_gP1FsM-foyMea66MWut8VIcns57aErV-vvq0WDCv9vbX/s1600/z00.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNXLoifO9jjorgQIwsyBfhyphenhyphenv3mH5mfzYYHnaKK2X6qq7hwaxDbegS4rSwSWwE9Vvdt3q8d3M3gEIuK-UTCIO9uhME76biEf6_gP1FsM-foyMea66MWut8VIcns57aErV-vvq0WDCv9vbX/s320/z00.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-89900289445147355242013-06-05T19:53:00.003-07:002013-06-05T19:53:43.365-07:00Running...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sophie spent 6 weeks this Spring training to run a 1 mile race. She trained 2 days a week.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She did so well on Race Day. She finished in the top 5 of girls from her school! :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_htA6bmGtaoxTUBcRUu2qXyWdiFZ_Z2ouyy3IRL8n3X2kwEwILkf-93TXayV4bCkGr9IE3vHKeIPpkqp_yfUa8XQBLvoapLWSqRhlN4ZnyEqnhWTayph4vgkqyNx0GJdCReIy2S2AZXV/s1600/DSC_6852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_htA6bmGtaoxTUBcRUu2qXyWdiFZ_Z2ouyy3IRL8n3X2kwEwILkf-93TXayV4bCkGr9IE3vHKeIPpkqp_yfUa8XQBLvoapLWSqRhlN4ZnyEqnhWTayph4vgkqyNx0GJdCReIy2S2AZXV/s400/DSC_6852.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pretty girl...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZVts5idkfBWV8tUrlJhacK64jJfXH6BwZWNJaJXOfjK6cBk0oHLsNJW9yO3CZtAPI1Q6QQhtm0PnQSxp5xqEkyM3rFM0zBzGsjhegcKD7LCn-qonmAikg61k37Dq0lLqDqDo_ft3sMVk/s1600/DSC_6829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZVts5idkfBWV8tUrlJhacK64jJfXH6BwZWNJaJXOfjK6cBk0oHLsNJW9yO3CZtAPI1Q6QQhtm0PnQSxp5xqEkyM3rFM0zBzGsjhegcKD7LCn-qonmAikg61k37Dq0lLqDqDo_ft3sMVk/s640/DSC_6829.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She was really hurting at the finish line, but she finished strong! I was soooo proud of her!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcjsamuo-QfZphj5mGG1-5d6aYQMbVEp_9YYEkvKoDF6c69_g70A_N5fzjuXpvXsYIC7BhUwNoPhojHCwAc2Y8GEhzXs-a2ORO9WIVhOddivjaPTKnccQwf9ooO1CPnidzgavc5KoBuQoK/s1600/DSC_6855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcjsamuo-QfZphj5mGG1-5d6aYQMbVEp_9YYEkvKoDF6c69_g70A_N5fzjuXpvXsYIC7BhUwNoPhojHCwAc2Y8GEhzXs-a2ORO9WIVhOddivjaPTKnccQwf9ooO1CPnidzgavc5KoBuQoK/s400/DSC_6855.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Way to go, Sophie!!</div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-66209017014192710412013-05-25T15:54:00.001-07:002013-05-25T19:24:47.583-07:00on preserving water...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1NfeK4DK9gyCGHO06p72d3RpJaT76cBSKfmuF_4F0ELOWvZQTgSXxum9jnz_Pgz8pTDWamjdzTiewPwlWSkJqHiCP9-XQAWM_lXrikrZWbDg2ZBT6-QdyQ_fWugpa244pQVTctpxPdOG/s1600/DSC_6867.NEF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1NfeK4DK9gyCGHO06p72d3RpJaT76cBSKfmuF_4F0ELOWvZQTgSXxum9jnz_Pgz8pTDWamjdzTiewPwlWSkJqHiCP9-XQAWM_lXrikrZWbDg2ZBT6-QdyQ_fWugpa244pQVTctpxPdOG/s640/DSC_6867.NEF" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It really gets to me - each unused glass of water I dump down the drain.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So... I keep this darling little pitcher right beside the kitchen sink. I dump each unused glass of water in the pitcher instead of down the drain. When the pitcher is full, I use it to water our gorgeous flowers on our front porch. It's so easy. I don't have to turn on a hose or a faucet. It's my little rain catcher in the kitchen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just another way to be simple, resourceful and conserve!</div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-86428648578423022082013-05-14T14:26:00.000-07:002013-05-14T14:26:05.080-07:00Why, Hello!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAOkKK43shpQvkBIuasjsT2JngKPzQXsMJ8W-uX4xgSmaAG2TJzGAYlDbrGlGk-ZCf5R2v_S8EsEnbo3DTmEy3L6d_K0HU9yJ0wVzEmxugC8PCEIPBUTyq7-L6VhWQniFsoSxwqTe1WCQ/s1600/DSC_6796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAOkKK43shpQvkBIuasjsT2JngKPzQXsMJ8W-uX4xgSmaAG2TJzGAYlDbrGlGk-ZCf5R2v_S8EsEnbo3DTmEy3L6d_K0HU9yJ0wVzEmxugC8PCEIPBUTyq7-L6VhWQniFsoSxwqTe1WCQ/s400/DSC_6796.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think it's been a month since I've written in this space. Instagram and FB make it way too easy to keep everyone in the loop. And as a result, I neglect this space! :(</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To me, May feels a little bit like September. Just too busy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Only a few more days until the rat race slows down a bit.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But man, I sure do love spring. What a glorious time of renewal, refreshment and new life!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On one particular morning, I enjoyed the water droplets on our tulips.</div>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-29839769090650131102013-04-13T13:19:00.002-07:002013-04-14T13:37:38.161-07:00Tips and Tricks for traveling with children...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrzxZFCnYYqXYwZQVyCRd45GtK5KbrX129waGQMLi41JtGoV7Aq6uQ0YtCUEMZGFt1LekDHvOsN3a4-nwZr_3PMrbBUEjuSA-hY4twT_aaq7KFCYibMs5zo-SQFj4eWphhhU0go3zoiW1/s1600/DSC09490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrzxZFCnYYqXYwZQVyCRd45GtK5KbrX129waGQMLi41JtGoV7Aq6uQ0YtCUEMZGFt1LekDHvOsN3a4-nwZr_3PMrbBUEjuSA-hY4twT_aaq7KFCYibMs5zo-SQFj4eWphhhU0go3zoiW1/s640/DSC09490.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We recently returned from a vacation on the beach. We drove 15 hours there and 15 hours back. We have done this trip multiple times with our 3 children (9, 7 and 4), and they've always done so great. Typical challenges along the way, but so great overall. I wanted to take a moment to share what's worked for us and to also encourage you to share in the comment section what has worked for you!<br />
<br />
So, here's my story...<br />
<br />
I guess it all started one day when I realized I really wanted to travel a lot with our children, but I also realized that we couldn't buy 5 plane tickets on a regular basis. <br />
<br />
I have never been a fan of long road trips - even before kids. After 3 hours, I'm done! I knew my mindset must change if we were going to travel with children. I believe there are great lessons to be learned with traveling and being uncomfortable.<br />
<br />
<b>Here are a few of my thoughts and reflections on traveling with children.</b><br />
<br />
:: I believe traveling success starts with Josh and me. We must have a positive, optimistic attitude about the adventure ahead. If we lose it, they all lose it. Even if we feel like we're falling apart, we must appear patient and joyful. Expect challenges and expect to be uncomfortable. Respond to the challenging and uncomfortable moments in a light hearted way. As Josh put it (while stuck in a traffic jam, and I was losing it), "Myah, this is a wonderful opportunity to show our children patience." Oh geez! Ok, I'll try.<br />
<br />
:: You can not be afraid to travel. Once you start doing it, you'll see how much fun you can really have!<br />
<br />
:: Expect challenging and uncomfortable moments.<br />
<br />
:: We don't do a great deal of entertaining of the children in the car. If they get uncomfortable, we offer our love and support, but we also tell them that they need to work through it. I encourage them to fall asleep so the time goes by faster! <br />
<br />
:: We talk a lot about how we're going to be in the car for a really long time. So basically, settle right in. It's going to be a while, so make the best of it! It will be worth it when we get there.<br />
<br />
:: We have certain boundaries in the home, but in the car - they're gone. If our children are happiest watching movies or on electronics for a good chunk of time, then fine! It's all about keeping the peace. They're not going to be messed up as a result.<br />
<br />
:: We let them plow through an entire pack of gum, if they want.<br />
<br />
:: I even let Ian unbuckle and jump up and down a few times, if he's going stir crazy. It totally takes the edge off.<br />
<br />
:: We've had a few times when a child has puked. That's not any fun at all! I called our pediatrician about this, and they recommended a tsp of Benadryl. If a child starts to complain of feeling yucky, I will totally offer some Benadryl. It really has seemed to take the edge off!<br />
<br />
:: Have a roll of paper towels, a trash can, a few trash bags and a change of clothes for each child in a handy location.<br />
<br />
:: We're super flexible when we're traveling. That is the key! <br />
<br />
:: The more we travel, the better we get.<br />
<br />
:: There are always a couple moments when someone completely loses it. If the wheels start to fall off, it's ok. Try to fix it, make the best of it and take lots of deep breaths. You'll be there soon!!<br />
<br />
:: We've gone on a handful of trips that are 12-16 hours long. We've tried it a few different ways. We tried the through the night thing, the daytime thing and something in the middle. We have found that something in the middle is perfect for us! We get the car packed up the night before. We all go to bed around 9pm and get a good chunk of sleep. We wake up the kids at 3am and put them in the car. They all fall back to sleep and usually sleep until around 8 or 9 a.m. We stop for a good stretch, breakfast and go at it again. They usually doze off again later in the afternoon. We arrive at our destination in the late afternoon/early evening. We unload the car, eat supper and go to bed! We wake up the next day rested and ready to enjoy our vacation. This has definitely been the way that's worked best for us.<br />
<br />
:: Enjoy the journey there. Talk about the cities and states you're entering. Follow a map.<br />
<br />
:: Make your stops meaningful. We love having our big breakfast at a Cracker Barrel. We love stopping at a Wendy's for a frosty and fries. That's not something we do often, so it's such a special treat. We love stopping at a pretty rest area or park where the kids can run around, burn some energy and possibly learn about something. One time along the way, we'll let the kids pick out a special snack or drink in a gas station. Again, that's not something they ever get to do, so it's such a special treat for them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLRw3lQH7bsWDyxsuLKh0SAzyY9YLvi6XvOyWE8WZjV3wT2FwdX-YwBJdI29eRUkuqsrUimt2MDg_fGnwoJaS1cqHg_D5JmyuWXH9pas_XKeZIkdwVn5c2sR_NSeof2avi5BbU7GVJc2ia/s1600/DSC09496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLRw3lQH7bsWDyxsuLKh0SAzyY9YLvi6XvOyWE8WZjV3wT2FwdX-YwBJdI29eRUkuqsrUimt2MDg_fGnwoJaS1cqHg_D5JmyuWXH9pas_XKeZIkdwVn5c2sR_NSeof2avi5BbU7GVJc2ia/s640/DSC09496.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Traveling Activities and Snacks...</b><br />
<br />
Here are some of our favorite activities:<br />
<br />
:: audio books on CD<br />
:: movie DVDs<br />
:: music concert DVDs<br />
:: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-License-Plate-Game/dp/B001QVI9CI/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1365883069&sr=1-1&keywords=license+plate+game">License Plate Game</a><br />
:: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-2095-Travel-Hangman/dp/B00140VX1K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1365882817&sr=8-1&keywords=hangman+game">Hangman</a><br />
:: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-Travel-Memory-Game/dp/B000VO1CIE/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1365882843&sr=1-1&keywords=memory+game+melissa+and+doug">Memory</a><br />
:: I Spy something...<br />
:: stickers on paper<br />
:: doodle/drawing book<br />
:: notebook and pencil<br />
:: Travel Journal<br />
:: listening to the radio<br />
:: naps - quiet time<br />
:: mad libs<br />
:: follow a map and track where you're going<br />
:: talk to each other<br />
:: make up stories<br />
:: read books (none of us can really read in the car, so this is minimal for us)<br />
:: crochet (this is hard for me to do in the car too)<br />
:: iPad<br />
:: iPhone<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Favorite Snacks:</b><br />
<i>I don't let the kids eat a ton of junk in the car. They're not used to eating junk, and I don't want to deal with stomach aches. Gum, mints and suckers have been special treats and just fine on them.</i><br />
<br />
:: carrott sticks<br />
:: sugar snap peas<br />
:: apples<br />
:: bananas<br />
:: crackers<br />
:: <a href="http://missionmindedmothering.blogspot.com/2011/01/homemade-granola-bars.html">granola bars</a><br />
:: nuts<br />
:: pretzels<br />
:: veggie chips<br />
:: gum<br />
:: suckers<br />
:: mints<br />
:: fruit snacks<br />
:: bread, pb and jelly<br />
:: water<br />
<br />
I hope this has been helpful to you in some way. I would love to hear your traveling tips and tricks. <br />
<br />
<b>Please share! :)</b><br />
<br />
Happy Traveling!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bWNfqeUjIi2BBItuauX33bL2pflA_X8BdpGpF1u9N613b-UD6Ou67LUBGy13dwCKqQq0HJwPP5EhVeW2XsrDWDB2aWwnBKcEwLOLFz7-VOcpX9HcLFrrap_KHfezp2v5qPWe1IP0qdK6/s1600/DSC09525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bWNfqeUjIi2BBItuauX33bL2pflA_X8BdpGpF1u9N613b-UD6Ou67LUBGy13dwCKqQq0HJwPP5EhVeW2XsrDWDB2aWwnBKcEwLOLFz7-VOcpX9HcLFrrap_KHfezp2v5qPWe1IP0qdK6/s400/DSC09525.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-32264577018274641162013-04-10T12:10:00.001-07:002013-04-10T13:23:21.871-07:00The Importance of the Supporting RoleMy husband is just several months away from defending his dissertation. This is just so, so exciting!<br />
<br />
When we started this journey a few years ago, people warned us of how hard it would be. We listened to the warnings, but as a couple determined that we'd go for it!<br />
<br />
It's unbelievable that we're so close to the finish line.<br />
<br />
<b>Ok... here's the point:</b><br />
<br />
I bumped into a woman today who knows how close we are to the finish line. She asked (referring to Josh's PhD) , "How are YOU? The supporting role is so important."<br />
<br />
I stood there and looked at her. Amazed. How sweet of her to acknowledge The Supporting Role and how hard some days can be on me - because he's gone, studying or just simply consumed in so much away from the home.<br />
<br />
I replied, "I am good!" Because really, I am. So, so good! I feel as if I've been completely covered and protected and blessed.<br />
<br />
I went on to tell her that I've already given Josh a lovely little nudge that his dedication page better be all about me! Ok, well... a good chunk of it better be all about me. Well that's not very humble, is it?!<br />
<br />
I walked away from our 2 minute conversation feeling proud. Proud of the way I've supported my husband in this journey. Even though Josh has told me countless times that he would not be where he is without my support - it's just not something I think about often, and I certainly don't take very much credit along the way.<br />
<br />
And then I started thinking about each and every one of us. Don't we all have a very important supporting role that we possess? I'm not sure we realize the importance of these roles.<br />
<br />
Josh's supporting role is to support me - in my profession of homemaking, mothering and educating our children. Without Josh's incredible support of my role, <b>I would not be able to reach my full potential.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
With Josh being gone so much over the past few years, the grandparents have wrapped themselves all around us and blessed us in great ways! They have been a huge support to me which has made it possible for me to support Josh in the way I have. I also have a few fabulous friends who help and support me whenever I ask. I would not be where I am without this support.<br />
<br />
<b>I believe we each possess a great supporting role. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>What is yours? </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>Are you doing a good job of supporting your loved ones, and are you receiving the support you need to reach your full potential?</i>Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-27351137482297309662013-04-09T09:55:00.003-07:002013-04-09T09:59:43.604-07:00Walnut Tacos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGU_fZa2mi8-MMiARDJi7eernxXkXAeO7Bng139yFs2YRzJPZ-EILiKvX8n7mBb6yP-FI0M0JhlUylF2xw43slsRoyWWOWknO03DtOOgYC02IFPrGEJbbYrscd4PjIAxYr9hN3pqDUDV6i/s1600/DSC09385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGU_fZa2mi8-MMiARDJi7eernxXkXAeO7Bng139yFs2YRzJPZ-EILiKvX8n7mBb6yP-FI0M0JhlUylF2xw43slsRoyWWOWknO03DtOOgYC02IFPrGEJbbYrscd4PjIAxYr9hN3pqDUDV6i/s400/DSC09385.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="p1">
Here's a fun, vegetarian alternative for traditional taco meat. We've recently enjoyed these Walnut Tacos, and they're fabulous. So... I thought I'd share!</div>
<div class="p1">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>Walnut Taco Meat</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">1 cup raw walnuts</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">1 TBLS low sodium soy sauce</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">1/8 teaspoon chipotle pepper</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">1 teaspoon cumin</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">1 teaspoon olive oil</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><i>Mix in food processor until it looks like large crumbs.</i></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>To assemble your tacos, you can use some or all of the following:</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Corn or flour tortillas</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Large lettuce leaves used as lettuce wraps - Bibb or Romaine</span><br />
Your Walnut Taco Meat</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Queso Fresco Mexican white cheese</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Shredded mozzarella cheese</span></div>
<div class="p1">
Avocado, diced</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Green onion, diced</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Tomato, diced</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Cilantro, chopped</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Your favorite salsa</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><i>Put together as you would regular tacos. </i></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b>Enjoy!!</b></span></div>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-86716225982923629932013-04-06T19:41:00.002-07:002013-04-07T18:44:32.145-07:00I'm back!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well... I'm back! After giving up social media during Lent, it's time that I return. Honestly, I really enjoyed my time away from Facebook - but I really missed blogging! I love blogging. I don't know what it is, but I just love it. I've asked myself, "Why do you enjoy blogging so much?" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: I love encouraging others.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: I love recording our journey.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: I love being a positive influence out in the internet world.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: I love offering a positive perspective on life.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: I just love blogging, and I missed it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We recently returned from a week away at the beach in Destin, FL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was fabulous. We drove 14-15 hours there and back. The kids each earned an A+++++ for their traveling behavior. I seriously want to put together a post titled, "How to travel 15 hours - peacefully - with 3 kids." They were unreal - there and back! I believe this is our 4th or 5th trip traveling 12-15 hours straight with 3 kids. So both ways - that's 10 times, right?! I remember having the girls give Ian his bottle - in the past - as we're driving down the road. They've always traveled so well. It's such a blessing! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xCBPPJVaALEhwsKXBT5oNNyPpoa9tIOsOfcFP4Zx0aGDCEBWdmlAOewFtpvVqB-xswpfdrl-qvDelYcW4tUKsXjHAIjvQkYsd3iNE45bhGeQ1fTip2XWeRs2Tmzvd0HpkqDldoWcyVtz/s1600/DSC09546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xCBPPJVaALEhwsKXBT5oNNyPpoa9tIOsOfcFP4Zx0aGDCEBWdmlAOewFtpvVqB-xswpfdrl-qvDelYcW4tUKsXjHAIjvQkYsd3iNE45bhGeQ1fTip2XWeRs2Tmzvd0HpkqDldoWcyVtz/s640/DSC09546.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were fabulous in FL too. They enjoyed a lot of time on the beach, in the pool and meeting new friends.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0CyZOvjxVx4qHUG8aT9aeCLZXrnQ-BAF4959wgXoC8-jL_8H2UyJGFlZK6QE9LE6hh-ybeEDm3EEnhgLODTJbL_LjPF5YEfG1qJSWdzML6fYgNV-340liTOCbZ6kWn6IvP-YPRRq1jsCL/s1600/DSC09537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0CyZOvjxVx4qHUG8aT9aeCLZXrnQ-BAF4959wgXoC8-jL_8H2UyJGFlZK6QE9LE6hh-ybeEDm3EEnhgLODTJbL_LjPF5YEfG1qJSWdzML6fYgNV-340liTOCbZ6kWn6IvP-YPRRq1jsCL/s640/DSC09537.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Josh and I just enjoyed being away. I go into crazy relaxation mode while Josh shops, cooks, does the laundry and takes over the place. It's perfect. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was just wonderful being away and being with each other. </div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-75085625474936154632013-02-27T07:09:00.002-08:002013-03-07T08:47:39.457-08:00good words...I'm gathering a list of good words that have touched my soul during this season of Lent. Maybe they'll bless you too!<br />
<br />
<blockquote style="background-color: white; background-image: url(http://simplehomeschool.net/wp-content/themes/simple-homeschool/images/blockquote.png); background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border: none; color: #333333; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 32px; margin: 5px 5px 20px; padding: 25px 30px 5px 70px;">
<h4 style="color: #cf6e37; font-family: Trocchi, serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.25; margin: 0px 0px 10px;">
Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person” (ESV)."</h4>
</blockquote>
<em style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Palatino, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;">"There is no one perfect way to be a good mother.</em><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Palatino, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;" /><em style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Palatino, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;">Each situation is unique. Each mother has different challenges, different skills and abilities, and certainly different children. What matters is that a mother loves her children deeply."</em><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Palatino, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;" /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&field-author=M.%20Russell%20Ballard&linkCode=ur2&search-alias=books&sort=relevancerank&tag=steadymomcom-20" style="background-color: white; color: #b667b6; font-family: Palatino, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><em>~ M. Russell Ballard</em></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-4538332125721669142013-02-13T11:13:00.001-08:002013-02-13T12:06:34.375-08:00Ash Wednesday... forgiven!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4-nNjwRIAR2SkIwlBqKGAr-aa8jbv2LRfyJtEWtJeo0wkJ-XBpLkls_Uwm16SaI0IaohxBr3tbXfxplXJIFHkwF8-aHeRyNG9XOvvEJs5DNt_9rmL-LXjhHecsaMNvRf6IRz65SasalFX/s1600/forgiven.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4-nNjwRIAR2SkIwlBqKGAr-aa8jbv2LRfyJtEWtJeo0wkJ-XBpLkls_Uwm16SaI0IaohxBr3tbXfxplXJIFHkwF8-aHeRyNG9XOvvEJs5DNt_9rmL-LXjhHecsaMNvRf6IRz65SasalFX/s320/forgiven.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hello! My name is Myah, and I'm forgiven!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After a brief moment of prayer, reflection and repentance with my children - my daughter, Sophie - drew a sign of the cross on my forehead with ashes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was - so far - one of the greatest moments of my life.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And now...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxuQjBlU98OImYhD5FLoCo_WYIAyBRyhiqECp0dP-HYJAc-vyysTjzGF9Zml5UczanwgNG-7DkT5ETxWlR6t6Ms0BfJEpZKnGlnAFH0cAcBKHYlmNeIAJZz11LuMFcq5sQYtXSkJKuq9G/s1600/lent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxuQjBlU98OImYhD5FLoCo_WYIAyBRyhiqECp0dP-HYJAc-vyysTjzGF9Zml5UczanwgNG-7DkT5ETxWlR6t6Ms0BfJEpZKnGlnAFH0cAcBKHYlmNeIAJZz11LuMFcq5sQYtXSkJKuq9G/s320/lent.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am shutting off any social media that allows to me engage in feedback from readers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>The plan:</b> I will be engaging heavily with my Creator - the One who matters most.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I plan to continue writing, but nothing will be officially published until after Easter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm working through <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Seven-Sacred-Pauses-Mindfully-Through/dp/1933495243/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1360782522&sr=8-1&keywords=seven+sacred+pauses" style="text-decoration: underline;">Seven Sacred Pauses</a> - and I have given up sarcasm and complaining. I am a serious optimist, but there are a few things that I continue to analyze and complain about. I'm working on that. Letting it go and trusting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Do you know that if you practice something for 30 days, it becomes a habit!?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Day 1 has been fabulous! :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I really, really hope you experience a rich time of reflection and growth during this Lent season.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I will see you all again around Easter time!</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love and care about each of you.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-60567186488733267552013-02-07T16:14:00.002-08:002013-02-07T16:16:26.317-08:00The case of the missing dish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After nearly 12 years of being married, I finally purchased a nice set of Pyrex storage containers. Oh... the little things that get us so excited.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And... I've been working soooo hard on trying to keep our storage container cupboard nice and organized.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Since I've been working so hard and trying my best to keep that cupboard organized {even though it's still not}, I did actually notice that I was missing a dish. I had a lid, but no bottom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As I was walking around the house one day, I noticed a precious little scene set up in a corner beside the Christmas tree. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh yes... Baby Jesus needed a nice, glass bed and a birthday banner!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Silly me... :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighpUMW-HuSDCQC2RwcyN7RK5Qz1WtcVop2bf8W0J3GkLWv7epUefMche8jZ9N_BeiuNWhtnX4Pit2um6Lf0cGQirBkMnjLSKZiTSdXrhL7UMyCV67RQs4cWAh-ZmdFyneqzBXUHWINMii/s1600/IMG_1604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighpUMW-HuSDCQC2RwcyN7RK5Qz1WtcVop2bf8W0J3GkLWv7epUefMche8jZ9N_BeiuNWhtnX4Pit2um6Lf0cGQirBkMnjLSKZiTSdXrhL7UMyCV67RQs4cWAh-ZmdFyneqzBXUHWINMii/s320/IMG_1604.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now children, may I have my dish back please?!</div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-59307293956211135662013-02-01T06:51:00.000-08:002013-02-01T07:03:41.526-08:00Trusting the Lord with our mothering<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This morning was tough trying to get the kids out the door for school. I really, really dislike rushing the kids around in the morning. No matter how much extra time I allow for us, it often feels like a "hurried child" morning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
On this particular morning - Sophie had to be to school 45 minutes early for Jump Club, Ian was cold and fussy and Halle's socks and shoes were itchy and uncomfortable {she has PE today}. After trying on several different pairs of socks and her ride was waiting outside for her, I could feel myself getting frustrated - but quickly realized that my frustration would not fix the moment or my children. So, I took a deep breath, asked the Lord to take over, waved to my friend and told her to go on. Sometimes, I just can't fix it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In moments like these, when it feels as if the wheels are falling off - I have found great peace and confidence in trusting God with my child training. No matter how many books I've read or wisdom I've heard from friends, the only thing that I absolutely trust with my mothering and my children is God. He made them, and He knows what they need in every moment. I don't always know what they need. Sometimes, I'm completely out of ideas.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In frustrating moments, my children will frequently hear me saying:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Lord, help me."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Speak, Lord."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Lord, take over."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Lord, we give you our lives."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Lord, what does this child need?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #222222; font-style: italic; line-height: 25px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“</span><span style="background-color: white; font-style: italic;">If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God,</span><i><sup class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-30272A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup></i><span style="background-color: white; font-style: italic;"> who gives <b>generously</b> to all without finding fault, and it <b>will</b> be given to you.</span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #222222; font-style: italic; line-height: 25px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">” </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;"><i> James 1:5</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;">God did not say wisdom </span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #222222; line-height: 25px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">might</span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #222222; line-height: 25px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;">be given. God said wisdom </span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #222222; line-height: 25px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>will</b></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;"> be given <b>generously </b>-<b> </b>just by asking. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;"><b>I believe our parenting and the lives of our children will be transformed if we trust God with our child training and do not compare ourselves to other parents, books, other children or relying on our strength and wisdom.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;">I'm not perfect. I'm not a super mom. I do not have all the answers.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;">I'm clueless at times. I do lack wisdom!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 25px;">But there is great peace in knowing and trusting that if I just ASK - wisdom will be given to me GENEROUSLY. It WILL be given to me. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 25px;">Isn't that awesome?! :)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 25px;">And guess what? Halle arrived to school on time. She eventually became OK with her socks and shoes. I was able to give Halle lots of hugs and kisses before she started her school day. I was able to eventually calm down Ian. I remained patient and peaceful - ONLY because I was filled with the Spirit and trusted Him to guide me.</span></span></span>Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-24170482466828730812013-01-31T11:38:00.001-08:002013-01-31T14:42:13.320-08:00What to do with your Christmas cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's no surprise to anyone that creating, preparing and sending out Christmas cards is a lot of work!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love receiving them. I love displaying them in our home. And... I really do love sending them. I make it a priority each year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However, the time comes at the end of the holiday season to take them down. Deep down in my heart, I KNOW that each family spent a lot of their resources {time and money!} getting a card to our family. We are blessed to have so many people out there who love us and include us in their lives. So... I spent a lot of time staring at the wall - as the time approached to take them down - thinking of something creative to do with all these beautiful cards.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7MlNdG2HsbZueRfcw3ztqOomyKqUFkARLPmhISnOuPdRCOEUzipx2tMrOyNR3QwcCxt58vY4FPzqlkFxlVWqgK0XdHXgb7i3fIj8wHId7dqMq5n5WwUob1OSVyJeQZ5g5JD8OAFBa6hR/s1600/DSC09384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7MlNdG2HsbZueRfcw3ztqOomyKqUFkARLPmhISnOuPdRCOEUzipx2tMrOyNR3QwcCxt58vY4FPzqlkFxlVWqgK0XdHXgb7i3fIj8wHId7dqMq5n5WwUob1OSVyJeQZ5g5JD8OAFBa6hR/s320/DSC09384.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPv_oPNXAfhpd6L4AYKsFUrD28ibc0paJB9xhWiGL46CcFQLyYWxVDJV50Rv4BsXX6yG-39yDaRRIs7CdmrKgEwg0hKIZfIUmAFiFUhyphenhyphenY_UKNh_nEn5xdOhfM9CWsMHsljE0lvgu2mvX7i/s1600/DSC09383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPv_oPNXAfhpd6L4AYKsFUrD28ibc0paJB9xhWiGL46CcFQLyYWxVDJV50Rv4BsXX6yG-39yDaRRIs7CdmrKgEwg0hKIZfIUmAFiFUhyphenhyphenY_UKNh_nEn5xdOhfM9CWsMHsljE0lvgu2mvX7i/s320/DSC09383.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Here's what I came up with:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: I cut off words that I liked {with my fancy scissors} and plan to use parts of each card for gift tags in the future.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: I hole punched each picture and placed them on a metal ring. The ring of pictures sits on our dining room table.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
:: We are praying for a family or 2 each night at supper and sharing stories about our sweet friends and family.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBuzB8kGrwtARwSC_wVGXNdx6WDRzVJ5Z23xtpd2XVz5O4YhQdpuiw-IZ13FdAQhdHk_ShiPWU3nF-LEzUR3sz2SC1UF46oMk9sOSAumM8HXIwjaairF7Ak1dfoJMrWhN6MNSWouA6Qlw/s1600/DSC09420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBuzB8kGrwtARwSC_wVGXNdx6WDRzVJ5Z23xtpd2XVz5O4YhQdpuiw-IZ13FdAQhdHk_ShiPWU3nF-LEzUR3sz2SC1UF46oMk9sOSAumM8HXIwjaairF7Ak1dfoJMrWhN6MNSWouA6Qlw/s320/DSC09420.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We mail out about 100 cards. I thought to myself, "If each of those families prayed for us - how cool would that be?" What a blessing that would be to our family?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you didn't send us a Christmas card, but you'd like us to pray for your family or if you have a specific prayer request for you family - send me a message! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'd love to add your family to our ring.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am so excited to bless our our friends and family in this way! :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-91083391821541017852013-01-30T15:47:00.000-08:002013-01-30T15:47:03.762-08:00A cardboard box really is all you need<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3gI8hN9wCQLsdFF6QNFpkGrFFloH-dvN7kVi-G4CYyB7qxLczCu0ySZbQG0GskSwJlYWsM5SeCopAbbjnPeMcVpnDe3qSGH-lwE-TkYrfDR7lOQa-U1-Eh5id5PCucxmi7JzUNwk7rQCp/s1600/IMG_1384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3gI8hN9wCQLsdFF6QNFpkGrFFloH-dvN7kVi-G4CYyB7qxLczCu0ySZbQG0GskSwJlYWsM5SeCopAbbjnPeMcVpnDe3qSGH-lwE-TkYrfDR7lOQa-U1-Eh5id5PCucxmi7JzUNwk7rQCp/s320/IMG_1384.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We gave each of the kids an umbrella for Christmas. The umbrellas arrived in a long thin box - the perfect size for a cozy little bed, boat, train, etc.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ian immediately envisioned what he wanted and made his vision come true. He spent most of the morning in this cozy little bed. He enjoyed watching me work in the kitchen from the comfort of a cardboard box. Picture perfect moment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I just love cardboard boxes!! :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4463778102994544817.post-14983456098374281142013-01-24T06:26:00.003-08:002013-01-24T06:26:55.927-08:00Sledding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
God blessed us with lots of snow over Winter Break!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lots of snow led to lots of sledding.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll let the pictures tell the story... :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5N7djqSt5SwGlHIYi6n4BWlLhzoBUvYUxFDBObwsDSDkKJ12DPXxwzprRlErZ32DLqi5W8_4ANbjqLD5QjdOrMUCs2wCQJ3npNKbDodmCWETxkimHEQcgNF2PTTppWe1IuUd_6zGiGGXd/s1600/IMG_1587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5N7djqSt5SwGlHIYi6n4BWlLhzoBUvYUxFDBObwsDSDkKJ12DPXxwzprRlErZ32DLqi5W8_4ANbjqLD5QjdOrMUCs2wCQJ3npNKbDodmCWETxkimHEQcgNF2PTTppWe1IuUd_6zGiGGXd/s320/IMG_1587.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEOgJK1QzMngPW_vwT3n9q-SYPkCj8Mv3EYSJrZk7zlmHXgIHGjxNDlyWjju6LbM5pt8UrgYcivucAm0V0Xcpb8eRfP3-l3OYhfsnNEaCi_R2KBF-HM6JL9yeGrqFfMTLVC40Xrbta1QJ/s1600/IMG_1590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEOgJK1QzMngPW_vwT3n9q-SYPkCj8Mv3EYSJrZk7zlmHXgIHGjxNDlyWjju6LbM5pt8UrgYcivucAm0V0Xcpb8eRfP3-l3OYhfsnNEaCi_R2KBF-HM6JL9yeGrqFfMTLVC40Xrbta1QJ/s320/IMG_1590.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiXkm8surMQhUlFGe8koqJHD3NI6DWYq96gUQvf98bumaGFUiIi8YKlaGIcFB-RIPIJcT2jfuCY5Jb3hkgbARbjT4MBnUYOV0zom7_GQ8AND5gkFI5KKe1gV-V4VAJGtrOiDGFU_GLuz7C/s1600/IMG_1594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiXkm8surMQhUlFGe8koqJHD3NI6DWYq96gUQvf98bumaGFUiIi8YKlaGIcFB-RIPIJcT2jfuCY5Jb3hkgbARbjT4MBnUYOV0zom7_GQ8AND5gkFI5KKe1gV-V4VAJGtrOiDGFU_GLuz7C/s320/IMG_1594.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjmuSdp_uIv8AwDjakDCsFfL8UEoKamo8_mmpQ0bIflNZGkSDvOC3u9V4ukxczot6q9-Fl8YQSur__jLk9W68Jd4m7LUsaCkuHQUEdLIBU0CttI2siNSwTTY9mLpU1MB8IacKLtxN5ruG/s1600/IMG_1596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjmuSdp_uIv8AwDjakDCsFfL8UEoKamo8_mmpQ0bIflNZGkSDvOC3u9V4ukxczot6q9-Fl8YQSur__jLk9W68Jd4m7LUsaCkuHQUEdLIBU0CttI2siNSwTTY9mLpU1MB8IacKLtxN5ruG/s320/IMG_1596.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9vT5xITbiaLiz2lhXvDhRj2ttERxmQfp1c5ROjuXuTBcCkAEH3XRw-u4HavtdnHyM2UcvzCEw9xVbtJAQ6VnFmGUbwMuGnMkCYYYsvOql4-Dv6kCGehhyN9Zk7E80EaexsW617GixyUo/s1600/IMG_1595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9vT5xITbiaLiz2lhXvDhRj2ttERxmQfp1c5ROjuXuTBcCkAEH3XRw-u4HavtdnHyM2UcvzCEw9xVbtJAQ6VnFmGUbwMuGnMkCYYYsvOql4-Dv6kCGehhyN9Zk7E80EaexsW617GixyUo/s320/IMG_1595.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRKFdF-z8yGAcoUHGbOCikW7xD648oVjS1XY89v8MnOOA4RyXpoTv-qPpTK_n_PmEfVkB23Pfr6QsBZicSZcnEeDo3Hs4W95QzlnfqtSj4j74BwWfmn6NqgW3VbNT3Io_BaEiNQP6xOs0s/s1600/IMG_1601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRKFdF-z8yGAcoUHGbOCikW7xD648oVjS1XY89v8MnOOA4RyXpoTv-qPpTK_n_PmEfVkB23Pfr6QsBZicSZcnEeDo3Hs4W95QzlnfqtSj4j74BwWfmn6NqgW3VbNT3Io_BaEiNQP6xOs0s/s320/IMG_1601.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Honestly, sledding scares me. It's beautiful and fun - but it scares me. I seriously prayed out loud every single time someone took off. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Lord, protect them."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now... all we need is more snow and continued protection! :)</div>
<br />Myahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12393888329941524187noreply@blogger.com1