Living LifeBetween the Trees

The Nature Study Thing

2009-12-16T14:27:00.005-05:00

In all my many years of homeschooling--six now--nothing has frustrated me more than my desire to do nature study, and my ineptitude at getting it done. That would be me...standing off to the side, stomping my foot in agitation over what seems like this gigantic hurdle that I can't seem to get over!

I've read all the books--the really, good books, I might add: "Pocketful of Pinecones", "Handbook of Nature Study", "The Charlotte Mason Companion"...

I've faithfully followed the comings and goings of such stalwart nature study champions as Barb (of Harmony Art Mom fame, not to mention the Outdoor Hour Study!) and Melissa of In the Sparrows Nest. For Pete's sake! I remember the day Melissa wrote about completely changing her entire approach to homeschooling after her son had emergency surgery. I was totally enthralled! Now she helps write those great resources for nature study. And here I sit starring out the window! Hey! It's cold out there!

I confess. I grew up in front of the TV. Playing outside was not ever something one did by choice. It was akin to punishment. Well, we don't have TV. My kids do love to play outside. They don't even mind the cold. But I do! And I don't like the heat either (old age?).

But the biggest thing that bugs me is that we live on a new golf course. There is not a tree in sight that is more than 5yrs old. Puny. I've never seen a squirrel in this neighborhood, people! And it's a big neighborhood. Oh! We do have a lake right behind our house. But we are not allowed to go anywhere near it because it's part of the golf course. You can't take walks to it, or explore the vegetation, or critters. Nothing. Just stare at it out the window.

Ok. The flocks of geese do fly over. But flocks of honking geese do seem to lose their appeal after a couple of years.

I did mention the "C" word, right?: critters? Um. I don't like critters. At all. I won't touch ANY of em...ever. The "Ewww" factor is way off the charts for me. And yet. I keep wanting to do this nature study thing.

Heaven help me. I dream of a wooded yard with a babbling creek and the sounds of chirping birds. I have grass. Sigh. I know. I know. Drive to the park! The problems with that are time, discomfort, fear of the unknown and did I mention time? With back problems hiking is not so good. Park benches are not so good. What's that? You hear violins!! Yeah. Me too!

But seriously. I REALLY want to do nature study. I tried to plan it this year. I printed out a bunch of Barb's Outdoor Hour Challenges. So good. And easy. I just can't seem to wrap my head around it to "guide" my children. I have tried the ole "We're going to have nature study, kids! Run outside and observe something. Then come tell Mama all about it!!" Bleck. Oh. Don't get me wrong. They actually didn't mind that at all. But that's not really what I'm wanting for them.

Have you seen Edith Holden's journal?? Oh my! I would seriously love to teach my kids how to do that! Forget them...I'd love to do that!

I guess I correlate nature study with advanced bio-chemistry. NOT in a million years could I tell you anything on THAT topic. That's how I feel about nature. I know nothing. Or pretty close to it. My world is about books!! I read about stuff. I don't dig it up out of the swamp!

How do these nature study people find the stuff they find? It boggles my mind! I guarantee you there is nothing remotely interesting about the stuff in my yard. We dig and find gravel. Regular old new construction, cheap grading, gravel.

And then there's the identification thing. Identification freaks me out! I got a bird guide and we did Jeannie Fulbright's bird book. We loved it. I can't identify a thing apart from brown-headed cowbirds, robins, gold finches and geese. All PRETTY obvious. I have an aunt and uncle who can name every growing thing on the face of the planet! Every weed, flower, tree, plant...EVERYthing. I just do that drooling, starring thing. How do people get that stuff into their heads?!

I really do want to do this! I think this is my third year of trying to get my act together and failing miserably. Either I can't decide what to do, or who to follow, or what topic is interesting and appropriate seasonally... There is almost too much to choose from. Organization is my "thing". Randomness stumps me. For some reason though, I can't give it up. I should be able to do this! I teach my kids math, right?! Surely I can experience a little nature! I know it's more than about the rescue of a few bugs and the gluing of a few leaves in a book. I think it would be so great for the kids, and believe me, after the year we've had, we could use "great".

Christmas break is my next attempt to pull this thing together, get all my acorns in a row (lol) and DO it. So if anyone has conquered the "outdoor" demon, please share how! If anyone wants to hold my hand while we step out into the grassy unknown, let me know that too! Did I mention we have lots of windows to stare out?!!

Studying the Names of God

2009-11-18T11:12:00.007-05:00

Let me just reiterate this for anyone who has never done a study on the names of God: If you want to really know who God is, what He's all about, why He does what He does, then study His names!

My first look into the names of God was many years ago when a good friend, former youth pastor, and Campus Crusade for Christ associate, Dick Purnell, wrote a devotional called "Knowing God By His Names: A 31 Day Experiment". That was a fabulous introduction to someone who didn't even realize that God had "names"!

Recently, my good friend EEEEMommy, shared with me that she was doing the children's "Discover for Yourself: God, What's Your Name?" book by Kay Arthur, with her kids. Being in the midst of total crisis, while listening to my children ask some tough questions about God and why bad things are allowed to happen to those that trust Him, I latched onto the idea as from the Lord, and ordered the book.

Personally, I don't care for a lot of the fluff in this series of books, but the content is superb! So with that in mind, I skipped the fluff and got to the business. Let me assure you! All of my children's questions were answered. All my questions were answered. Before, we knew God was trustworthy; that His promises are true and His grace is sufficient, but now we had a much better understanding of why things are the way they are. Now we have a firmer knowledge of who God is.

I don't think you need to be in the midst of suffering to need to know who He is. Maybe if everyone knew this, there'd be less selfish, sinful choices being made in this world. Maybe it is easier to draw near to a God we know, than a God that we only imagine. I challenge you to consider this study! It's worth every minute.

There are 16 names in the book, plus I added a couple of others that were meaningful, such as Emmanuel: God is with us. It's tempting to list them all out for you, and I did list many of them in my previous post, but I want you to discover them for yourself!

There are some pretty neat resources available for this study. Here's a link that provides artwork associated with the names of God. Here's another great site if you don't wish to purchase a book.

Get Christmas Resource Deals Today Only

2009-11-16T09:59:00.002-05:00

Go here to get Ann Voskamp's "The Glorious Coming" Advent/Jesse Tree Celebration book for just $5 today (Monday) only! Also pick up today's freebie of the day which is a great family baking plan that gifts plates of cookies to neighbors and friends.

And They All Lived Happily Ever After

2009-11-11T10:46:00.004-05:00

Eight months ago this week, my husband left.

After nearly twelve years of marriage, I never imagined I'd be where I am today...comforting my hurting children, and aching with the pain of an extremely broken heart. In that brokenness of sin and betrayal, I can tell you that nothing is what you expect it will be in such a situation. I have spent many months in prayer; seeking direction from the Lord, while picking up the pieces of our shattered lives. I prayed for, and believed there would be reconciliation, but there hasn't been. And in that I've come to understand scripture like never before!

If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up."
(Dan 3:17-18)

I am confident that God is in every detail of our lives and knows what I don't. There I find my rest and my peace. I grieve that anyone could go through this with out finding their hope and comfort in the one true God. Only there have I understood real love and forgiveness.

Let me make it very clear that Christ is my King and my husband is not (though I may have been guilty of letting him take on that role). It has been difficult for me to relinquish my ideas of happiness and my hopes and dreams that were placed in and with the mere man that I married. I am so thankful that my Heavenly Father makes Himself known, surrounds me with His wings,

Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings, (Psa 17:8)

lifts me from the pit of despair

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's. (Psa 103:2-5)

and calls me His heir!

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!" The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
(Rom 8:15-17)

Without Him, I would be condemned to being alone, lonely, and desperate.

Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you." (Deu 31:6)

With Him I have life and hope.

"And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. (Psa 39:7)

Today my children and I will finish up our first study on the names of God. If you really, truly want to know who He is, you need look no further than His very names. Here is where you'll find me today: Clinging to El Elyon (God Most High--Gen 14:16-20). Crying out to Jehovah-rapha (The LORD heals--Exod 15:22-26). Singing out to Jehovah-saboath (The LORD delivers--I Sam 1:1-11). Knowing that He is my Jehovah-jireh (The LORD provides--Gen 22) and my Jehovah-shalom (The LORD is peace--Judges 6). And if you know me at all, you'll know that today and always He is my Jehovah-nissi (The LORD is my banner--Exod 17:8-16) and my Jehovah-raah (The LORD is my shepherd--Ps 23).

I'm ashamed, or maybe more amazed, to say that before this happened, I knew very few people who had gone through what my family is going through. I have been very sheltered by a family who has loved God and loved each other. Therefore, they have found unity in Christ and practiced faithfulness in ways that give new meaning to long-suffering. But as I've journeyed this quite different road, I've met with many of the "widows and orphans" of the 21st century: Families destroyed by unfaithfulness and selfishness. I've seen the destructiveness of sin up close and way too personally. I've experienced a pain like no other--the pain of my own sin and the pain thrust upon me by my husband--and met some of the most amazing over-comers in the form of Godly women abandoned by men, but embraced by the Father.

In case you are wondering, Satan is alive and evil and attacking the hearts of those who fill their lives with themselves. In this age of attack on marriage, Satan is having a hey-day. Some recognize him more easily than others. Some are gently swayed by the Father of Lies who appears as an angel of light. He is called the Father of Lies because lies hold a power that is unmatched in warping, twisting, and purging the human heart of any need for, or love of the things of God. Self becomes exalted to the throne of glory and our Father in Heaven is ignored. No longer is His Sovereignty recognized. No longer is it "His will be done", but "My will be done".

And there in lies the rub. As my Heavenly Father, I cry out to Him. I cling to Him. I crawl up in His lap and He absorbs my every tear. He is who I want to be like. He is whom I rely on. He is always there. He never fails me.

As you can imagine, I could go on and on as my heart pours forth from this morning of worship. My hearts weeps over the sin that so easily entangles. Thankfully, my story doesn't end there. It is a story of hope and endurance. And glory. God's glory.

but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. (Isa 40:31)

It's been a very hard year, and it's not through yet. Each day brings new grief and new strength also. Each hour I am faced with life without the person that I am supposed to be "one" with. Each minute I'm confronted with a divorce that I don't want. Some tell me it gets better; some say it'll get worse. Is it no wonder that our sin grieves the Lord?! I look into the eyes of my beautiful children and wipe away their tears. I hold them after the bad dreams. Soothe their tummy aches, their head aches, and their aching hearts--things no child should have to endure--and I tell them about Jehovah-rapha who promises to turn the bitter into sweet (Exodus 15:23-26). I assure them that what Satan, and sinful man, means for evil, God means for good. What can mere man do to us? I remind them constantly that they are not alone: God is with us.

I get it now. The firm foundation; the verses about shifting sand and not being shaken. The truth about standing on the rock.

I waited patiently for the LORD; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. (Psa 40:1-2)

Where else would I rather be? Is there any better place than firmly in the grip of my Savior? I know there is not. God continues the work He began in me and I know that He will not allow His glory to be set aside.

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (Php 1:6)

I praise Him for who He is! I praise Him because He is El Roi--the God who sees (Gen 16)--and that He knows all that I don't; every bit of my life that He asks me to trust Him with.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Pro 3:5-6)

I'm so thankful for the fellowship of believers who have surrounded us in love, prayer, comfort and understanding.

Please. If you know someone who is going through this, or has gone through this, I entreat you to go love them. Love them with your presence, your time, your kindness. Assure them of the Father's love and faithfulness. Please let them know that God never leaves us or forsakes us when we put our hope and trust in Him.

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Eph 4:1-3)

And pray. Pray for your husbands, your friends' marriages, your relationships with God. Pray that He alone will have the glory in your life. Fear what He thinks of you, more than what others might think of you, including your husband. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.

You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. (Deu 6:5)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (Heb 12:1)

One of the first passages that God brought to my attention when this journey began, was this one about Peter keeping his eyes on Jesus:

But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid." And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me." Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God." (Mat 14:27-33)

I want to keep my eyes firmly fixed on Him in the midst of this turmoil. It's not always easy, but that is my plea. The children and I have chosen this Mark Schultz song, "He Is" for our prayer:

Father, let the world just fade away
Let me feel your presence in this place
Lord, I’ve never been so weary
How I need to know you’re near me

Father, let the world just fade away

Till I’m on my knees
Till my heart can sing

He is
He was
He always will be

Even when it feels like there is no one holding me
Be still, my soul
He is

Father, let your Holy Spirit sing
Let it calm the storm inside of me
As I stand amazed
Lift my hands and say

He is
He was
He always will be

He lives
He loves
He’s always with me

Even when it feels like there is no one holding me
Be still, my soul
Through every fear
And every doubt
And every tear I shed
Down every road
I’m not alone
No matter where I am

He is
He was
And He always will be

He lives
He loves
He’s always with me
Even when it feels like there is no one holding me
Be still, my soul
Be still, and know
Be still, my soul
He is

by Mark Schultz

What's Different About 5th Grade

2009-09-11T11:12:00.004-04:00

I've been noticing some very new, very different, and very welcome trends from my now 5th grade son.

Writing. The first big thing to change happened first in our Heart of Wisdom: Adam to Abraham study for History. He was given a chance to write a "journal entry" as if he was part of the story. "Write a paragraph" turned into pages! And he's still adding to it. We've added written narration in a couple of other topics and he's taken off with those as well. And his neatness is improving.

Then there was our recent trip to the King Tut exhibit. I looked around for him, only to see him glued to an exhibit. I watched him as he carefully read the placard, then studied the artifact. This continued throughout the exhibit. Then just this week at the zoo, I found him again reading placards that he has passed no less than 50 times! Instead of "playing", he was studying! This is way cool, if you ask me!

Then there's the reading. He seemed to have developed a renewed passion for reading. He's always liked reading, but seemed to get into a lull toward the end of last year. There may or may not be a reason for it, but regardless, I no longer have to bug the tar out of him to take a book in the car.

Alert! Alert!--Son is working on geometry as we speak and not only is he grinning from ear to ear, he just asked me if he could "TAKE LONGER" so that he could add to the geometric design. May wonders never cease!

Back to the reading. Son has multiple books going--school and for fun. Rather than only read what's required, he's read ahead in all of his assigned books.
And let's just talk about the math. If you've been reading this blog for any length of time, you know a few things about us. We have used RightStart from the beginning and we love it, however, we have had our share of weeping fits due to certain math concepts, and math in general. We've often ended a math lesson on the floor under the table, or hours after we've started, or even swearing that math is a tool of Satan. But NOW we're in FIFTH grade!

When we went to the convention to get this years math, we got a surprise. Not only were we to do RightStart's final level "Geometry", they were recommending we alternate the Geometry lessons with Algebra (VideoText Interactive). So, not knowing any better, I bought them both and planned the year. It didn't take long to notice that the Algebra was recommended for 7th grade. That was two years away, but at this point son was anxiously awaiting Algebra because of a wacky Algebra-loving friend! So we agreed to try both. So far, he's doing both and doing them well.

The Geometry he is doing 100% independently. Whoo-hoo! He really likes doing it all by himself too! Never thought that would happen, especially with MATH! We may not get very far in the Algebra, but even urges to quit haven't lasted more than a couple of minutes. Without much persuasion, he's continued to give his best.

We're only six weeks into school, so I'm wondering what other surprises this sweet ten year old boy will have in store. He's had a very rough year emotionally what with family crisis to the nth degree, but he continues to remind me that trusting God is the best way.

Band Days

2009-09-10T10:48:00.004-04:00

Once upon a time many, many years ago, there was band. Thee band. Thee marching band. Band was my life. It's where all my friends congregated and spent just about every waking hour apart from school. It was all that really mattered. It was full of drama and excitement; heartache and misery--and everyone who was in it, loved it. You just weren't in band if you didn't love it. There was band camp, band trips, band competitions. There were football games, state fair...but mostly practice. Practice, practice, practice! Practice marching, practice playing. Then there was practice twirling and practice throwing. That came after the instruments lost their glitter and shine and flags and rifles took their place. I have so many memories from band I could write a book. And what a book, THAT would be.

Though we all moved on from high school band, the joy that it brought remains (even over the misery!) and I find myself signing my son up for beginning band! Now, in many ways I've been waiting for this for years. My parents did own a music store, after all. My children could and would have their choice of ANY instrument in the joint.

Little did I know that the very week he was to choose an instrument, my father would begin the process of closing the music store after nearly 50 years in business. The sinking feeling set in. Now I would have to go through what every other band parent has ever endured: picking one instrument and sticking to it! So, he chose the trombone. It's a good fit. He is tall and has very long arms. His grandpa played the trombone. And if you went to high school with me, you know who ELSE played trombone! (And it wasn't me.)

Now, this is not his mother's band! This is a homeschool band. Much, much smaller. Way less drama! The band director is such a sweet gal. They'll be meeting once a week throughout the year. My son was very excited that the first handout spoke of playing music to the glory of God! He keeps asking me if he'll be good at playing the trombone. My days in the music store have taught me that no instrument is easy to learn, but the benefits are endless! With practice, he'll be a fine trombone player. I hope that he remembers that 1st handout and always plays for the glory of God. If he does, he can't possibly fail!

Stephen Meader Books Republished

2009-09-09T14:15:00.000-04:00

We've been using Truthquest History for the past three years. We love it, because we love living books and don't care for textbooks. It's always interesting to try to find the older books which are no longer available in public libraries. When we do come across one, we find them to really be worth the effort! I don't believe we've ever been disappointed by a Truthquest recommended book. It is quite frustrating for me to hear that something is "fabulous, but too rare to find". That is like pouring salt on a wound!

Imagine my surprise when I found this website which is reprinting Stephen Meader's books! Yippee! If you have boys, or even if you don't, you will want to check out these books. Now, I know they aren't cheap, but given that they would be lost forever to most of the reading world, they're a bargain!

God Provides

2009-09-09T14:09:00.006-04:00

God provides. We know it. We've read it. Some of us believe it. Many of us have experienced it. Many of us will have to experience it. Understanding it, though, is often a different matter. Though we've read His story in the Bible, our perspective, or our knowledge is often limited to our own experiences. We know that there are profound purposes for the telling and retelling, but the familiarity of the oft retold stories becomes a barrier to believing and we just forget. We forget why He gave us His Word.

I was so excited to see this offering today! First of all I love, love, love Dean Jones! What an amazing man of God, as well as an amazing actor who is putting before us some incredible resources. Crown Financial Ministries, the group that Larry Burkett began to provide us with Biblical counseling in regard to stewardship of money, has now made these series of films on God's provision. I really can't wait to see them!

Go here to see the trailers for each film.

Weeks in Review 8/28/09 & 9/4/09

2009-08-25T11:29:00.009-04:00

Son...
...continues to amaze me with his diligence in tackling geometry.
...read "Weekend with Leonardo DaVinci".
...read 1/2 of "The Young Brahms" and loved it!
...really enjoyed seeing the King Tut exhibit and making a new friend.
...finished part 2 of the study of Turkey (the place; not the food!) in A Child's Geography: The Holy Land.
...read chapter about pronouns in "Grammarland".
...was sick Friday.

Daughter...
...is fluently adding numbers up to 10.
...began her new ballet class and loves it (of course)!
...is writing very neatly.
...and is very quick with her spelling.
...did great at King Tut and loves her hieroglyphics stencil.
...was sick Thursday.

The Mama...
...began new Lamplighter read-aloud: "The Probable Sons".
...wants to finish "Trusting God", by Jerry Bridges, this week.
...is also reading the Lamplighter "House of Love".
...was sick Thursday.

Week in Review 8/21/09

2009-08-24T08:32:00.011-04:00

And our 2nd week...

Son...
...is flying through "Carry On, Mr. Bowditch". Loves it.
...handled his first algebraic stumbling block very well.
...began writing full-page narration! Whoopppeee!
...began regular tennis lessons after enjoying a tennis camp.
...started reading "Adam and His Kin" and really loves it, too!
...got his trombone put together for the 1st time.
...getting excited to go see the King Tut exhibit next week.

Daughter...
...continued to fly through her math.
...continued to also fly through her phonograms!
...started her new learning log for spelling.
...began regular copywork.
...watched video of "God's Story" on Christian Answers, with brother.
...is enjoying being read to much more as of late.
...also enjoyed her tennis lessons.

The Mama...
...is setting up some good routines.
...is thankful both children are enjoying their lessons!
...loves the new resources for this year.
...read together about William Cowper in "Mr. Pipes" book.
Learned the hymn, "Sometimes a Light Surprises."
...needs more time in the day.
...is determined to stick with nature study even though it's most out of character!
...may have to set "Swimming Creatures.." aside--tough decision.
...finished reading "The Hidden Hand", by E.D.E.N. Southward.

Week in Review 8/14/09

2009-08-22T07:44:00.008-04:00

A little late, but here's what happened our first week:

Son...
...started 5th grade.
...began geometry completely on his own.
...also decided to tackle algebra.
...learned his first latin words.
...committed to reading his Bible on his own.
...stood with the Lincoln family.
...toured the Lincoln home, tomb, & museum/library.
...did first written narration, on the creation story, with minimal hysterics.
...began reading about Leonardo DaVinci.
...read "First Book of Ancient Egypt".
...began reading "Carry On, Mr. Bowditch."

Daughter...
...began Kindergarten.
...got to skip several math lessons.
...quizzed all phonograms: oral & written.
...heard the creation story.
...excitedly continued her reading from her reader.
...was always ready for the next thing.

The Mama...
...met Monday with joy and relief!
...invited the Holy Spirit to be present in all we do.
...cheered daughter as she got into the swing of participating more in lessons.
...drove to Springfield, Illinois to see Lincoln.
...was rejoicing to have friends along!
...was ready for the weekend.

**My apologies to Daisy for stealing her idea for this post! Forgive me!

It IS August After All

2009-08-18T12:43:00.008-04:00

It is August! And with it come so many reminders. Reminders that summer has come and gone; that school is starting. Reminders that it's time to begin thinking about jeans and sweaters; fall decorating and stocking up on tea and cocoa.

For me, this August must be a fresh start. One of pressing forwarding and holding on. One of enduring with courage; a patience made manifest in and inspired by hope. There is much to do and no time for dragging and lagging and ruminating of sorrows so horribly thrust upon us. It's time to instruct and heed instruction.

Emotionally we are coping. Waiting. Praying.

Me? I'm desperately seeking the new normal. Each day is filled with blessings and trials. We battle the trials and embrace the blessings: New church, new friends, new school year. New shape for our family. New day, new hour, new minute. But always aware of the presence of the Lord.

We are into our 2nd week of school and already tweaking our schedule, thinking about routines (Daisy!) and reflecting on our 1st days. We have some GREAT resources to use this year. Many new and wonderful helps that God has poured upon us. Want to know what we're doing? I'll tell you shortly.

Him Who Is Greater

2009-06-27T06:53:00.006-04:00

Suddenly my world was not as I had ordered it. Things got tough; then got tougher. The pain of brokenness had set in and the battle was on. Where was God? I knew He was there. I wanted to believe all that I'd ever been taught. "Oh yea of little faith!" The revelation; the unveiling of "Him Who Is Greater", was about to begin.

My children and I climbed in the van to run some errands. It was morning, which was a somewhat unusual time for us to be in the car. We had taken to listening to Moody Radio because we enjoyed the older praise music and hymns they played, over the louder, more current Christian music. So I turned on the radio and settled in for a 35 minute drive. For the first 5 minutes I stared at the road and listened to the transition from one program to another. The kids were quiet; each attentive to some gee-gaw they had brought in the car.

The announcement for the next program came on. I wasn't paying that much attention. The preacher's name was given--hadn't heard of him. But then they said the name of the sermon: "Trusting God in the Midst of Crisis". I mumbled under my breath...something to the effect of "yea...sure." But God had my attention and for the next 30 minutes, I listen to James MacDonald of Walk in the Word, remind me who God really is. The tears began to fall and at one point I remember asking my 9yo son, "Are you listening to this?" He answered that he was.

We pulled into our destination. It just so happened that we had driven this far to find a Lifeway store so as to purchase a Beth Moore Bible Study book. (I'll tell you more about that later!) We sat in the parking lot, listening to the last couple of minutes of the program. Still crying, my son says to me, "Mama? How does that man know us?" I told him, "He doesn't know us, but God does and He wants us to trust Him. Do you think we can trust Him?" And my son, with tears in his little eyes said, "Yes!"

Yes! We can trust Him. "Him" who is able to do exceeding and abundantly beyond anything we can imagine. "Him" who sent His son to die for us. "Him" who put us here in the first place. "Him" who promises to never leave us...that "Him". Then we really knew we'd be okay.

Not one to let a good resource slip past me, when we got home, I got out my handy-dandy laptop and looked up this James MacDonald fella. That was when I found out that the message I had heard was the culmination of a series of messages entitled, "Always True: 5 Great and Precious Promises of God". I listened to the whole series, over and over. I cannot tell you how much it helped me to focus on who God is, rather than my own hurt! This was the beginning of really understanding that the key to my mess was glorifying God.

I'm not sure of all the answers to all the questions, but I know that I always believed that was precisely what I was doing--glorifying God. I was a believer from childhood and had all the Bible knowledge and experience to believe all the right things. I truly thought God was the most important thing in my life! But, when God begins to show you who He really is, coupled with who YOU really are!...a glory thief...the results can be somewhat distasteful. Add to that, suffering the consequences of seeking your own way and you get a muddy pile of clay at the bottom of a mud hole pit.

Enter the potter.

I Bless Your Name

2009-06-20T07:59:00.001-04:00

When you find yourself imprisoned in your mind, bless His name; defy the chains.

What I've Been Up To While Away From Blogging

2009-06-13T10:27:00.005-04:00

Surprise! I'm still alive. You know...what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger?! It's a fact, for God is faithful beyond anything that we can even imagine.

Without going into a lot of detail, the past months have been painful, trying, painful, slow, fast, full. That about covers it!
I've read some REALLY good books that have impacted me tremendously; and I'll share those with you soon.

I've discovered SO much about myself as a child of the King of Glory. You'll probably get to hear about that too!

I've learned some truths about said King that have rocked my world! Oh! He's much bigger than you may be thinking. Creator, Savior? That's nothing compared to who He is in all His majesty!

I've also cried a hundred, million tears...each of which are safely in the hands of the Lord.

I know you're curious. I would be. It's very hard to share personal traumas that are so private, so that is why I've been "away". I've received your many notes though! I know many of you have been praying for my family. I am so grateful! We are the body of Christ and even out here in La-La-Land, we can take care of one another.

If I have any readers left out there, I appreciate your sticking "close" and checking back even after all this time. I feel like I've turned a corner in my journey and I'm eager to share the wonderful good news that has been revealed to me of God's faithfulness. He is so AMAZING! Amazing, amazing God!

My journey, and that of my family, is far from over. I wish I could report that it was, but I can unequivocally say that no journey worth taking--no road ever followed (regardless of whether or not you would have preferred to just "stay home")--ever truly comes to an end this side of eternity. So on we march!

His mercies TRULY are NEW EVERY single morning! Great is His faithfulness.

At this moment, I'm listening to birds and mowers, while a cool breeze drifts in my bedroom windows. My children are singing and dancing to praise music downstairs--LOUD praise music! We're expecting a bit of pool time later. School stuff is overflowing my brain. School stuff is ALWAYS overflowing my brain! There's just so much to do! :)

Come Lift Up Your Sorrows

2009-04-10T12:48:00.003-04:00

Come Lift Up Your Sorrows
If you are wounded
And if you're alone
If you are angry
If you're heart is cold as stone

If you have fallen
And if you are weak
Then come find the worth of God
That only the suffering seek.

Come lift up your sorrows
And offer your pain
Come make a sacrifice
of all your shame
There in your wilderness
He's waiting for you
To worship Him with your wounds
for He's wounded too.

He has not stuttered
and He has not lied.
When He says come unto me
you're not disqualified

When you're heavy laden
You may want to depart
But those who know sorrow
They're closest to his heart

Come lift up your sorrows
And offer your pain
Come make a sacrifice
of all your shame
There in your wilderness
He's waiting for you
To worship Him with your wounds
for He's wounded too.

In this most holy place
He's made a sacred space
For those who will enter in
and trust to cry out to him
And you'll find no curtain there
No reason left for fear
There's perfect freedom here
To weep every unwept tear.

Come lift up your sorrows
And offer your pain
Come make a sacrifice
of all your shame
There in your wilderness
He's waiting for you
To worship Him with your wounds
for He's wounded too.

Michael Card,
from "The Hidden Face of God" album

Fear Not, Much-Afraid

2009-04-09T09:24:00.006-04:00

The shepherd answered Much-Afraid: "Fear not, Much-Afraid, only believe. I promise that you shall not be put to shame. Go with [these companions] Sorrow and Suffering, and if you cannot welcome them now, when you come to the difficult places where you cannot manage alone, put your hands in theirs confidently and they will take you exactly where I want you to go."

Much-Afraid stood quite still, looking up into his face, which now had such a happy exultant look, the look of one who above all things else delights in saving and delivering. In her heart the words of a hymn, written by another of the Shepherd's followers, began to run through her mind and she started to sing softly and sweetly:

Let Sorrow do its work, send grief or pain;
Sweet are thy messengers sweet their refrain.
If they but work in me, more love, O Christ, to thee,
More love to thee, more love to thee.

Each time she shrinkingly took hold of the hand of either Sorrow or Suffering a pang went through her, but once their hands were grasped she found they had amazing strength, and seemed to pull and even lift her upwards and over places which she would have considered utterly impossible to reach.

"Hinds' Feet On High Places," by Hannah Hurnard

Purposeful & Deliberate

2009-03-26T09:32:00.006-04:00

I was talking with the husband one day and he used the term "purposeful & deliberate". Though he was speaking about a specific use of time, suddenly those words were seared in my brain and I began to think about them. I began to think about my time, my days, my life, my family, and to wonder if the Lord could say to me that I was "purposeful and deliberate" in all that I do. Knowing, indeed, what the answer would be, it has haunted me ever since and is something that, no doubt, requires my attention.

I thought I'd look up the words in the Webster's 1828 (full of it's rich, Biblical definitions) to get a more clear understanding of them, and then determine in what manner I should be purposeful and deliberate. Let me add that these terms remind me of faithfulness and righteousness, yet those things seem so much about holiness that they seem to be something to achieve rather than the means of getting there. (Added emphasis is mine.)

Purpose PUR'POSE, n.
1. That which a person sets before himself as an object to be reached or accomplished; the end or aim to which the view is directed in any plan, measure or exertion. We believe the Supreme Being created intelligent beings for some benevolent and glorious purpose, and if so, how glorious and benevolent must be his purpose in the plan of redemption! The ambition of men is generally directed to one of two purposes, or to both; the acquisition of wealth or of power. We build houses for the purpose of shelter; we labor for the purpose of subsistence.

2. Intention; design. This sense, however, is hardly to be distinguished from the former; as purpose always includes the end in view.

Every purpose is established by counsel. Prov 20.

Being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. Eph 1.

Of purpose, on purpose, with previous design; with the mind directed to that object. On purpose is more generally used, but the true phrase is of purpose.

PUR'POSE,v.t. To intend; to design; to resolve; to determine on some end or object to be accomplished.

I have purposed it, I will also do it. Isa 46. Eph 3.

End in view...intention, design, resolve, determine, accomplish...weighty stuff for this little 'ole brain!

Deliberate DELIBERATE, v.i. [L. To weigh.]
To weigh in the mind; to consider and examine the reasons for and against a measure; to estimate the weight or force of arguments, or the probable consequences of a measure, in order to a choice or decision; to pause and consider. A wise prince will deliberate before he wages war.

DELIBERATE, v.t. To balance in the mind; to weigh; to consider.

DELIBERATE, a.
1. Weighing facts and arguments with a view to a choice or decision; carefully considering the probable consequences of a step; circumspect; slow in determining; applies to persons; as a deliberate judge or counselor.

2. Formed with deliberation; well advised or considered; not sudden or rash; as a deliberate opinion; a deliberate measure, or result.

3. Slow; as a deliberate death or echo.

Decision, consideration, choice, slow...but I decide everyday! Yet often without consideration. Without being slow. Without being deliberate.

From the time my children were born I've taught them about consequences, yet it may very well be a lesson that I am only now learning myself. I believe that I should and can be more purposeful and deliberate in all that I do. No more just getting through it; but careful deliberation and decision, looking to the end objective for the purpose.

My family. Our spiritual life. Our home. Our schooling. How we spend each moment of our time together. What really matters?? When it's all said and done, what will matter? How should we live?

Sheep Art?

2009-03-23T21:40:00.000-04:00

Planning for Holy Week

2009-03-21T15:16:00.005-04:00

According to recent homeschool buzz, it's that time of year. That end of year panic and frenzy to accomplish something. I've stared aghast at my calendar for a couple of weeks as I've begun to consider where we are and what we need to do.

Honestly...Charlotte has made such a huge difference in our lifestyle, that I'm left a little perplexed by the usual questions of "completion" and "summer". Since I had to start somewhere, I began with the calendar and the first thing I realized is just how close we are to Holy Week.

After verifying a couple of dates, I pulled out my copy of Robin Sampson's Biblical Holidays and began plotting Holy Week. I love the chart that she shares about the events of Jesus' life in regard to Passover and the Crucifixion and the Resurrection. It's so helpful to see the Biblical events put on a Jewish calendar and then seeing how it fits into our calendar. This is a good year to compare as Easter Sunday actually falls on Nissan 17 (daytime), which, at sunset, is the actual time of the Resurrection.

It's a relief to get this on the calendar and planned! It's a relatively simple thing that can be overwhelming when I'm not prepared. Now I'm ready to look to the rest of our learning for spring-time.

Read more about spring Biblical holidays here.

God is in the Details

2009-03-07T08:41:00.003-05:00

God is in the details. All the little seemingly unimportant details. Those believed to be meaningless, steps along the way. And I have found, that as I remember daily where my hope and confidence truly lies, those details become teachable moments. What was once just a stop along the way, becomes the catalyst which guides me to better understanding. It is the song that was written just for me.

Life is a long journey where every day builds upon the ones before. I do not treat today, as I did any day before. I count it, like He counts it. And I surrender. It is in the surrender, that there is peace. It is in the laying down that we are at home, for anything else is just an illusion; a trap of the enemy to give false confidence and false triumph.

If I do not trust in Him who is most able to sustain me--if I believe I know what tomorrow will bring--I can count it as lost. I must remember who designs my days and for what purpose. Temporal, or eternal. I must remember!

When I rest in who I am, instead of whom I belong to, I cheat myself. Though memories and experiences often chart my path, they don't lay my path. He lays my path and it is much narrower than I've ever supposed. It must fill me up. There must not be room for anything else. Everything else is dust in the wind; chaff that is found wanting.

If my heart lingers for a moment on myself, my self will shine in place of Him who draws me up and sets me on my way. The guessing, the contemplating, the striving for understanding...they mean so little to me now. What matters is the next moment He has for me.

Those that will look honestly and deeply, will know. Those that cannot see, will not see. May those I love, see. May they know what I know, and better. May they hold fast.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
(Php 4:8)

Children will follow. They will listen. Whether what I speak is lovely, or wretched. The path is narrow, but God is in the details. May I be worthy enough for them to hear. My feelings and emotions deceive, cause pain, and regret. They also give the greatest joy because He made them to. The desires. The heart. He made them to glorify Him. Yes. My heart is wicked. Yes. My heart belongs to You, Lord. Do with it what You will. Create in me a clean heart.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
(Psa 51:10)

Once I was lost, but now I'm found. Was blind, but now I see. His grace is sufficient for me; for even me. The Lord is my strength and my song.

"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the LORD GOD is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation."
(Isa 12:2)

I'm ready to go. I want to go home.

Neon lights flickering
Outside the cafe
Ice on the windshield
Stars in a black sea
On a winter road
Flurries of snow
I'm ready to go

Past farmhouse and pasture
Our voices together
Rise to the drumming
Of big-rigs and trailers
Long hours to daylight
A rumbling bus
Our bed and our board

Heavenly Father
Remember the traveler
Bring us safely home
Heavenly Father
Remember the traveler
Bring us safely home
Safely home

I long for my family
And friends to remind me
Of where I have been
And where I am going
And where I come from

Heavenly Father
Remember the traveler
Bring us safely home
Heavenly Father
Remember the traveler
Bring us safely home
Safely home

(Fernando Ortega)

Hanging Out in Colorado

2009-03-01T12:53:00.004-05:00

One of the many joys of homeschooling is the ability to drop everything and head cross-country. Spontaneity is a great thing, for some, and for us it has often been a blessing. So the reason I was so quiet last week was because much of it was spent driving 1136 miles from Indiana to Colorado. My cousin lives here and has welcomed me and the kids into her castle for a couple of weeks. I say "castle" because it's a tudor style home that my sweet girl is convinced is really a castle! Son is quite thrilled to stay in the "dungeon" and we're all pretty happy that they happen to live on a buffalo preserve. Those suckers seem to be a bit camera shy, though, and all we've been able to see up close is poop. Of course, there are also the antics of the prairie dogs, which are prolific and active all times of the day. Getting their picture, though, has also been difficult without a big ole zoom lense.

We've been attempting to maintain somewhat of a regular school time, but the spring-like weather and the general splendor of Colorado has pulled us to other activities. Sadly, however, husband is not with us this trip. Other demands, you know. That makes choosing our adventures a bit less fun.

Traveling for more than a few days does bring it's own set of issues. Overdue library books that I've renewed 47 times are suddenly non-renewable--grrrr! And then there is the dry climate here that has my children believing something's wrong with their noses! :) Then there is the Wii! Oh my stars! I can barely peel my children from it. If they only knew the joys of playing Pong on the old Atari I had when little! Our cousins have a theater room in their "castle" and so if you add the Wii to the large screen with the amazing sound system...and the reclining leather chairs...it's just all pretty crazy. Very hard to compete. Son did ask me this morning if he "could play Wii after he read Bible for awhile??!!" Hilarious.

I'm trying to plan some of our week and trying to make the most of our time. I'll try to post more often while we're here, but I might be Wii racing instead!

What We Do, Part 4: Bible

2009-02-19T12:07:00.000-05:00

I hope you are enjoying my telling of what we do each day. So far I've shared our singing of hymns and prayer time; how and what we memorize. It might interest you to know that this just completes our first half hour of the morning, and now it's time to open our Bibles!

Bible is the foundation for everything we do. With the advent of Charlotte coming to stay, we've gone through a learning process that has taken us from complicated, to simple. I've written about our Principle Approach to studying much over the years, and I'm really seeing how it has prepared us for this (Charlotte Mason) progression in our learning. While we learned so much with our Judah Bible Curriculum, our emphasis was changing and we are now finding it a true pleasure to just read the Word of God!

Concentrating our efforts on reading scripture has given us a fresh passion for God's story. We chose to read through the gospels first and are using Penny Gardner's lists that you can find here and here. Son and I take turns reading and it really is a great chance for me to hear him read aloud. We are enjoying the fact that the short lessons that Charlotte prescribed, suit us well at this time. They allow us time to discuss what we've read, and lend themselves nicely to have five year old daughter join us. She is learning to narrate and son is loving sharing his own bits of learning with her.

I have to mention that a side benefit of reading the Bible has been our children's increased vocabulary. Well, any reading of real books will do this, but it's amazing to me how a spelling quiz will show no trouble with words like "righteousness", "blessed", or "trial", while "exception" or even "dilemma" bug the tar out of my boy!

One conundrum that I've faced with the decision to go this direction, is what to do with other Bible resources we have and love. For instance our "Child's Story Bible", by Catherine Vos. I love this book! We used it and our Bible for awhile, but there was so much repetition that it got monotonous. Charlotte does not hold to repeating readings, and preferred the actual text, to watered down versions. So while Vos's book is the best of the story Bibles, the Bible is the Bible!

This brings me to another bit that I haven't mentioned for awhile: Translations and simplified texts. We have chosen to use the English Standard Version for our own personal reasons, but with that decision came the effort that we would all use it together. We also chose to put son in a "full", and not "children's" version as soon as he was solidly reading. This was around age 7. It helped that they came out with a Children's ESV that was full text but included pictures! With memorizing, studying meanings of the words God used, etc., we just didn't see it making much sense to use a kiddie version.

Recently we began attending a new church and 5yo daughter's first handout in Sunday School was the Lord's Prayer--in baby talk. No kidding! She has been in the process of learning the true Lord's Prayer and I found it frustrating that they would use baby talk in place of the beautiful words of Jesus! Is it any easier, or hold any value, to teach a child a watered down prayer that's not in the Bible, than to teach what Jesus truly taught? I think not! Enough said.

Lastly, I'll add that "just" reading the Bible is what we feel the Lord wants for us at this time. We've set aside the notebooking and the excessive planning and are concentrating on listening to God and seeing what He has to reveal to us. This was not an easy step for me (the Planner!), but we have been really blessed by it! AND. Bible is solidly the Word of God and not a "subject" that requires a programmed response.

Read about the other things we do:
Part 1: Hymn Study
Part 2: Prayer
Part 3: Memorization

What We Do, Part 3: Memorization

2009-02-17T21:44:00.003-05:00

Oh, I wish I was an Oscar Mayer weinerrrrr.
For that is what I'd truly like to beeeeeeee.
For if I was an Oscar Mayer weinerrrrrrr.
Then everyone would be so proud of meeeeee.

Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onion, on a sesame seed bun.

Listen my children and you shall hear of the midnight ride of Paul Revere...

To be, or not to be. That is the question. Whether tis nobler in the mind....

I pledge allegiance to the flag, of the United States of America...

The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not want.

You get the picture.

Memorization.

Every stored up bit of life becomes a part of who we are. We draw from what we know whenever the fancy strikes us. With hymns and scripture, we draw comfort and inspiration. With literature and history we gain purpose and understanding; and we wax philosophical. With music and stories, we find passion and joy. The benefits of memorization have been studied and documented and a child who memorizes will always excel in communication (as well as everything else!).

I've talked about memorization now and then, so there's not much new to add. I'll just tell you this: I'm more amazed every day at the number of beautiful things there are to memorize! I can't help but think about that saying, "Garbage in, garbage out!" It applies to so many things, but memorization takes the cake. My own brain is a plethora of pop songs and old jingles. Being a "no tv" family, causes me some amusement as I remember the glory days of "I'm a pepper, he's a pepper; Wouldn't you like to be a pepper too!" Not really what I want to be remembered for knowing, yet it's in there...forEVER! :)

Now my mother was a different story, she died nine years ago and I inherited her many photo albums. Upon taking them apart to reorganize them and make sure they were protected, I made a little discovery. My mother wrote lines from poems and occasional folk song lyrics on the back of my baby pictures! At the time I thought that was so odd, but truly "who she was". Now I'm amazed at the treasury of thoughts that she passed on to me! Because she memorized.

You'll remember from previous posts that we've used Simply Charlotte Mason's Memory System for awhile, tweaking it and making it our own. I continue to mold it to fit our needs and throughout the week we drill and practice presenting. We work on them together, as a family. I've come to realize that when done alone, this hasn't been as effective. Together, it's personal!

We memorize all kinds of things. Scripture, poetry, speeches, bits of history (like the poem on the Statue of Liberty). We even memorize hymns, through our hymn study. Don't forget the value of ALL the things you choose to memorize! Then there was the War of 1812. This contribution by their dad, taught them all about the Battle of New Orleans. They sing it together and it is a hoot!

Don't underestimate the value of music in helping with memorization--even if you have to make it up. Though we haven't used any of the memory song CD's, we did find Schoolhouse Rock's Multiplication Rock particularly useful! There's also putting things to rhyme. We tried to memorize the Ten Commandments out of the Bible. We struggled for awhile until I found this:

You shall have no gods but me;
Before no idol bend your knee.
Take not the name of God in vain;
Dare not the Sabbath day profane.
Give both your parents honor due;
Take heed that you no murder do.
Abstain from words and deeds unclean;
Steal not, though you be poor and mean.
Tell not a willful lie, nor love it,
What is your neighbor's do not covet.

Now we all have them memorized! Every day we come across something that we want to memorize. Whether it's hiding God's Words in our heart, or treasuring a favorite poem, we memorize. That's not likely to change. I relish the day my children turn to their own children and tell them "I know how to memorize the Ten Commandments!"

Read about the other things we do:
Part 1: Hymn Study
Part 2: Prayer

Wake Up Call

2009-02-17T08:38:00.007-05:00

I am not a morning person, and neither are my children. We have gotten into a bad habit of taking our time to get up. As happens with most parent-induced habits, this Mama began to see the error of her ways, and changed her habit. I began getting up and was eager to start the mornings, however... My children didn't seem to get the same memo and were not cooperating with my new-found "glory in the morning". As a result, my husband heard this every morning:

"Time to get up!"
"Children! Get up!"
"Are you up?"
"Get up!!"
"I TOLD YOU TO GET UP!"
"WHY AREN'T YOU UP?!"

Etc., Etc. It wasn't pretty and ~~Charlotte~~ my husband was certain it was my fault. Imagine that! After reaching his limit, he laid down the law: I may awaken them ONE time, and ONE time only. I set a timer for one hour and I wait. They have that one hour to get up, dress, do morning chores, and eat. If that timer goes off and they aren't done eating, I'm to take their food and they get nothing else to eat or drink (except water) until lunch.

Well, you can imagine their little brains, can't you? They didn't believe it. Oh, they played along for a few days, but yesterday--on a Monday, no less--it was time for the Mama to be tested. We knew it was coming and husband grinned at me as he walked out the door with no hope that the children would make it in time.

First daughter came scurrying down to eat, only to be sent back up to complete her chores. Then son raced down the stairs with less than a minute to go. One bite of oatmeal and the timer went off. I picked up both bowls and began rinsing them in the sink. The mayhem insued. "You don't care if we starve!" "You don't love us!" "IT"S NOT FAIR!!" I called their dad and they each got on the phone with him. All I could imagine was that my day was just ruined and that I may just get pushed beyond my limits with the attitudes. Daddy saved the day and held both children in check and you'll never guess?

What has been proven over and over? That children need and even crave boundaries. They need rules and order and they respond to them.

So we had a very profitable day! Everyone buckled down and we had a wonderful lesson time. We only had a couple of murmers of hunger, then lunch brought relief. I decided to show my children the benefits of good attitudes and took them to the budget movie to see "The Tale of Desperaux." Great movie (You were right, Angel!).

This morning, there was leaping from all beds and a quickening of the feet! Breakfast was appreciatively eaten and our day of lessons has commenced. Think they got the message? It was a hard one even for this Mama to learn, but I'm relieved that my husband saw clearly the need for me to be uhhhh....put out of my misery! :)