tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44804778056504244672023-11-16T12:19:28.486-06:00Chaos 2 Calm (Truly Tabitha)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.comBlogger126125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-64793066906279848822014-01-18T08:07:00.002-06:002014-01-18T08:07:29.452-06:00Making the Transfer to Wordpress: Please Follow Me There!I LOVE this blog and it's been amazing writing it in the past year, but I am finally ready to make the switch to a self-hosted site!! <br />
<br />
BUT...<br />
<br />
I don't want anyone that follows me to not be able to FIND me!! So, I'm giving you a heads up. Please take the time to go to <a href="http://www.tabithafletcher.com/">www.tabithafletcher.com</a> and subscribe to get e-mails. It's a little messy over there right now as I'm trying to figure out all of this coding stuff...but I really don't want to loose any of you to the transfer. <br />
<br />
This is what the heading will look like when you get there:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9ZEkCnYVaIHgRHKt2WcISy41evYR6435l3i14smf14YnXdBdQLEjVMJccF2k_cqhuyLEk8TRGYcdSb5dYCg3Rrcv2upPjcLItA882pxyoxstflANRQCIxkycemenVo-I6XGNcuMX4iw/s1600/New+Blog+Header+take+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9ZEkCnYVaIHgRHKt2WcISy41evYR6435l3i14smf14YnXdBdQLEjVMJccF2k_cqhuyLEk8TRGYcdSb5dYCg3Rrcv2upPjcLItA882pxyoxstflANRQCIxkycemenVo-I6XGNcuMX4iw/s1600/New+Blog+Header+take+2.jpg" height="494" width="640" /></a></div>
I hope that helps relieve any confusion! <br />
<br />
I'll be decluttering much of my blog along the way and only keeping my favorite or most read posts. So, if there's a special post that you would dearly miss, just let me know so I can transfer it. And, don't worry...I'm not deleting this blog right away. It'll take me time to get through it all! <br />
<br />
Love, Tabitha Fletcher (<a href="http://www.tabithafletcher.com/">www.tabithafletcher.com</a>)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-32555274973903137092014-01-04T22:00:00.000-06:002014-01-04T22:00:00.178-06:00Preparing School for After Baby's BornToday was quite full of planning and organizing school stuff. It's not just back to school after Christmas break for me, but also planning for how to keep school going with a newborn coming soon!! <br />
<br />
There have been several HUGE, life changing events we've been through, that used to knock me flat on my face while home-schooling. The first one was when Abram was born...but at least Abby was only 2, so it's not like schooling her was any more than reading fun books. Still knocked me for a loop with all the changes in routine. Then we went through a hurricane where our entire downstairs had to be re-floored, half re-walled, and re-painted. It was a nightmare that lasted a year. It also knocked me on my...tuff. <br />
<br />
Then, when I broke my leg...it was like my last straw! Not again!! I finally started thinking about what-if these huge knock-me-down changes in life kept happening. Could I handle it? What could I do about it? What if the kids got behind in school? Should I keep home-schooling?<br />
<br />
I didn't get the answers right away. <br />
<br />
Then Joshua was born shortly after a drunk driver hit me and we both had to have chiropractic care for a year. A double whammy--brand new baby and unplanned doc appointments--and pain. Lots of pain. <br />
<br />
And then the answers started coming in. From wiser, older women. From God. From experience. <br />
<br />
Now, here's what I do when life's tsunami's hit:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>If I know it's coming, I throw all the hard core teaching up front in the year. We buckle down for months of really intense language/spelling lessons, math, and whatever else they're likely going to need lots of one-on-one focused attention.</li>
<li>ALWAYS have a treasure chest full of self-teaching books, activities, and supplies. Workbooks a little under grade level, Usborn books on various subjects, documentaries, books that aren't too challenging but still at their level, puzzles, math games, and classics and other heavy reading on cds are all on my school shelves now. Even when plans are thrown completely out the window, I know they have lots on hand to keep learning! (I just found a new FREE resource for those of you who need it. It's www.booksshouldbefree.com . They have over 3000 books on audio that you can listen to on-line for free!!! No joke folks. Best. Find. Ever. Especially just weeks before I'll have a newborn in the house. Most of them are the classics that frequently get ignored or skipped now-a-days.)</li>
<li>Relax and Trust. I realized over time that there are MANY forms of learning. If you'll relax and ride each wave, trusting that it was planned by our creator, it's much easier to enjoy the ride. When we went through the hurricane, there were forms of learning that we could have never replicated. Our children saw us rip away sheetrock and peeked in between walls, walked on cold concrete where carpet had been warm under their toes, sat at the table with a small group of people around a real kerosene lamp (the only source of light for the evening), ate army meals for days, and ran around as a line of neighbors barbequed together and exchanged food. They saw store shelves empty of everything but bags of chips, registrars only accepting cash without the ability to give change, electric lines bent so far down you had to switch lanes to avoid hitting them, and realizing that everything important in life fit into one small car. They saw people laugh and smile through loss, help their neighbors, and sleep whole families to a room. It was learning at it's BEST! When babies come, they learn everything first hand all day long!! They learn to change diapers, that clothes have to be washed differently, how much babies really sleep and cry and poop, that babies don't like to be held <em>that way</em>. My children were there as I progressed through labor. They were there to see baby's first smile, laugh, roll-over, and hear his first word. And they will be there to help potty train. No book can teach you these things! My children were there all day, every day, for the months of healing after I broke my leg, to watch as I learned to walk again on a broken ankle. They learned to do chores I never thought they were old enough for, like running the washer and dryer and fixing my coffee. I ate sandwiches that I dared not complain about as they learned. They memorized the names of the bones in our body. They saw how pain meds can make a person act very "weird" and tired all the time. They saw their daddy take over all the dinner cooking that was done. They grew in responsibility as they had to bring me all of their school for weeks, couldn't depend on me to hop up and find things for them, and made their own cereal and sandwiches. Learning is not stale and stagnant. It is moving, growing, and changing with us! There are no substitute Mommies to take over. Life Happens and it's really a good thing.</li>
<li>I whittle it down and then whittle it down again, to the very basics of school and chores, so that life can be as unstressful as possible. We no longer quit when life throws us waves. We just hold on tight and do whatever it is we can day to day. We have a moment, do some math. I only have one hand and the baby's nursing, but I can listen to you read now. I have to cook dinner, but you can work on those workbooks or trouble spelling words. </li>
<li>Then, after all of this, I also realize that PLAY is really important, too. And in these times, when I can't, I just can't. I let them play for long periods of time. If it's nice outside, I make them get out in it to play. And I try and make sure that they're truly playing, not just watching t.v. or playing on a screen. </li>
</ol>
I know this got really long. I'm just in the middle of preparing for another big life change--a really joyous one!! And sometimes I have to stop and remind myself of these things. I know they're true, but it's still a bit hard for a control freak like me to just let God take ahold of my life and let it be.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/V0Byp7aK2DA" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-15315247028208803872013-12-31T20:49:00.000-06:002013-12-31T20:49:35.890-06:00I'm DUE in about three weeks!I know there's a few of you wondering where in the world I've been the last several months. <br />
<br />
Well...life sorta took over...BIG TIME.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj31CwbgL503Jcb_rTEAhHCcDGg9eUx14wIkJPcRR3hqPrDsnEuJj36HeW21irTzfTep_coaqx9oOu4ba_lqoNh8X8XeIix9xkoFnuUiK4jbTS9loNLnufZFGFSado3VfC3Y1c0blHEAEM/s1600/IMG_4649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj31CwbgL503Jcb_rTEAhHCcDGg9eUx14wIkJPcRR3hqPrDsnEuJj36HeW21irTzfTep_coaqx9oOu4ba_lqoNh8X8XeIix9xkoFnuUiK4jbTS9loNLnufZFGFSado3VfC3Y1c0blHEAEM/s320/IMG_4649.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Can you tell???</div>
<br />
You know that post about moving to the little house that we lived in for a little over a month? Yeah, the one I decorated just to help show. Well, I found out I was pregnant while we were there!! Not good timing. Exciting news--don't get me wrong. But really bad timing. Showing a house that's not even yours while throwing up at a moments notice isn't exactly fun. I had a few cry-it-outs. NOT because of the baby, you understand. I love every baby, no matter how unplanned. I cried it out trying to survive keeping up a show-ready house while dealing with morning sickness. <br />
<br />
Then, of course, the next move was only weeks away. A move from that house and the storage unit we rented. Not so fun for Josh, either. Excited to get and set up my house. Sick enough to want to stay on the couch and do absolutely nothing! <br />
<br />
Then, new neighboring kids start showing up DAILY!! Like, two extra children to watch, entertain, and get to know...all while preparing for the coming home-schooling year...while morning sickness continued. <br />
<br />
Then school started! Ugh. The house was just getting settled, I didn't feel a bit good, I hadn't set my first doc appt yet, and now school was upon us. So doctor appointments and school start at the same time! That was the latest I had ever seen the doctor after becoming pregnant. I was two months along when I found out and almost three and a half by the time they fit me in!! Good thing it's my fourth and I knew all about prenatal vitamins, how to take care of myself, and all of that. <br />
<br />
Let's just say the news didn't get around that quickly. I was kinda in a daze, honestly. I've never had such a foggy pregnancy. <br />
<br />
Then both of my grandmothers die in the same month and two months later Josh's grandmother dies!!! Oh my word. Talk about hormonal. <br />
<br />
Blogging was the very last thing on my mind. I kept thinking, "I outta at least let everyone know". But no. It just didn't happen. <br />
<br />
Then I was put on blood pressure meds...which is normal for me, but miserable because you feel like you're drowning in tiredness. Just doing school and cooking dinner was a huge accomplishment every day. <br />
<br />
SOOOoooooooo..........<br />
<br />
Just letting you all know....<br />
<br />
I'm due in like 20 DAYS. Yeah, I know. CRAZY, right?! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9MidstwAD7A3TRugRaqDnyJCTNrJM6a7XW7o5nZCNh3_RJBUKHbB6K5PWU1HZ14DCy7BGGiIa8XnbhP7f6njCH6VZXnEK2fGoX_VG1NhxJ-0MuGbqlWViVDJnYg4kKvm1-zRoTB0QkKk/s1600/IMG_4646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9MidstwAD7A3TRugRaqDnyJCTNrJM6a7XW7o5nZCNh3_RJBUKHbB6K5PWU1HZ14DCy7BGGiIa8XnbhP7f6njCH6VZXnEK2fGoX_VG1NhxJ-0MuGbqlWViVDJnYg4kKvm1-zRoTB0QkKk/s320/IMG_4646.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
But, Eeeek...I can't WAIT!!!! This baby is kicking like crazy and I've been talking and bonding with him and it's like the best thing ever. But I'm SO exhausted. <br />
<br />
Just thought everyone should know before random baby pics start showing up on here!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-36383743945754291562013-12-24T14:34:00.004-06:002013-12-24T14:34:43.057-06:00Don't Just Walk Like Jesus...Sit Like Him, Too<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFH4um8KuVDVD-WUXmCNhdIdE8defeEJqNw1AdW_Klbjg7U0xhghaAojSMAVCimRqG86TslzmTJL75mXtA4ZsiMR7hRWjbdIqn2fxR30HGONQJHEXnsyXE3HM9efxejH_bjK-mJ0ffIzk/s1600/IMG_4698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFH4um8KuVDVD-WUXmCNhdIdE8defeEJqNw1AdW_Klbjg7U0xhghaAojSMAVCimRqG86TslzmTJL75mXtA4ZsiMR7hRWjbdIqn2fxR30HGONQJHEXnsyXE3HM9efxejH_bjK-mJ0ffIzk/s640/IMG_4698.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's Christmas Eve this morning and I can't get the gay/lesbian debate raging on facebook out of my mind. What a bad time for this to happen...or maybe that was all in God's plan, as well. I just can't help thinking back to my earlier adult years as a newly wed, making for the first time decisions about who was and was not invited in my home, what parties we would be invited to, and so on. We made many mistakes. But, this Christmas Eve, these things are far more settled in my mind...but I know they are not settled in the mind of every young Christian out there. <br />
<br />
There is a danger at a time like Christmas for those who are on the fence about how to "take a stance" to stumble blindfolded into the Pharisee's camp. <br />
<br />
Yes, I'm a Christian. Yes, I believe the Bible...hook, line, and sinker. And yes, I believe homosexuality is a sin. I know that those Christians reading this really are searching for the answers to what I believe before really sinking into a chair and reading further. Jesus has been invited in my life, the Holy Spirit lives within my heart, and I don't practice such behaviors as may give someone reason to think I am making excuses for myself. I'm not saying that to boast--at all. I'm saying that because this same information coming from someone who has been caught up in such sins as adultery, homosexuality, and fornication, might very well be taken as excuse-making. <br />
<br />
That out of the way, here are some things to keep in mind:<br />
<br />
<strong>Jesus sat to dinner with sinners...</strong><br />
<br />
Mark 2: 15-17<br />
And it happened that He {Jesus} was reclining at the table in his house, and many tax collectors and sinners were dining with Jesus and His disciples; for there were many of them, and they were following Him. When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that He was eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they said to His disciples, "Why is He eating and drinking with tax collectors and sinners?" And hearing this, Jesus said to them, "It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick; I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners."<br />
<br />
The story's the same in Matthew 9:9-13, with this one primary addition:<br />
<br />
Matthew 9: 12-13<br />
But when Jesus heard this He said, "It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. <strong>But go and learn what this means: 'I desire compassion, and not sacrifice,'</strong> for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners."<br />
<br />
<strong>Of which we once were...</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
James 2: 9-13<br />
But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. <strong>For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of <u>all</u>.</strong> For He who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not commit murder." Now if you do not commit adultery, but do commit murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment.<br />
<br />
The verse I put in bold above has had a profound impact on my life. Through junior high, high school, and even into young adult life, I had one sin that dominated me...pride. You see, I've never smoked, been drunk, got in a physical fight with anyone, slept with anyone outside of marriage, cheated on a test or paper, and I was honest to a fault. Even as a teen, I tithed everything I made, rarely missed church...and on it went. I was the "good girl". But, I hated. Yep, that's right. I hated.<br />
<br />
I hated those who were happy even in the midst of sinful lives and those in my own life who sinned against me. I hated those who were asked Bible questions in Sunday school and didn't know the answer because they had missed lots of church when I hadn't. I hated those who didn't like me...since I was SO lovable. I hated those who used the Lord's name in vain or dressed immodestly compared to me. The list could go on and on! <br />
<br />
The scariest passage in the bible to me was 1 Corinthians 13: 1-3, "If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing."<br />
<br />
I've never had a problem answering bible questions or keeping away from the "bad and evil" things of this world...but I couldn't love. One day, a few years after Josh and I were married, I sat depressed and lonely and asked God what was wrong with me. I really wanted the answer this time. How could I be so "right" and yet so unhappy? (And don't get me wrong folks, even though I've grown leaps and bounds in this area...I STILL struggle with these areas that are so easy for many people...areas like kindness and mercy, etc.) And He gave me the answer in a verse I'm sure I had read before...after all I had read through the entire bible from cover to cover, and yes even all of Numbers and the genealogies.<br />
<br />
The answer came in the form of a verse I had somehow been blinded to--completely. I wouldn't have believed it were there had I not read it in my own bible. <br />
<br />
<strong>"For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of <u>all</u>." James 2: 10</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
I SAW it! I mean, it hit me like an eighteen-wheeler. I thought of myself as a good person. But in about 30 seconds of God's reality check hitting my brain, I knew I was guilty. Not just a little guilty...I mean filthy, dirty, not worthy of a glance from above...guilty. And it HURT! I mean, all of a sudden this good little girl from the South, raised by a preacher, who knew all the right answers, who dressed properly and got good grades without ever cheating and never dared to go faster than 5 miles over the speed limit, was guilty of the filthiest sins there were. I dare say, with a gulp in my throat, that at that very moment, pictures came to my mind of ME doing those filthy things!! And enjoying them. I was guilty. <br />
<br />
All in a comfy chair in front of a sunshiny window, I went from good little girl to guilty of the grossest sins you can imagine, without ever leaving that chair. I was full of shame. And I cried deeply. I could hardly stop. And for about the thousandth time in my life, I asked God to save me. Only this time was different. I didn't ask as a favor, to make sure I had said the right thing and done what a good little girl was supposed to. I NEEDED it. I was desperate for it. <br />
<br />
In a dream, I had been thrown in a grave while still barely alive. I was paralyzed and not even my mouth could move. I had always asked God verbally, but I was unable. I merely pleaded with my eyes that He would know and would rescue me. And He noticed. And He pulled me out of the grave and then opened my mouth to say what I had been so desperate to, "Please! Please forgive me! Please have mercy and save me!" And He did not turn away. And I felt the deepest peace encircle me. It was a feeling I could hardly bare to endure. I knew that I was saved. No more asking over and over again. I had been forgiven of the worst already. <br />
<br />
At that moment, the way I thought about others changed as well. <br />
<br />
Oh, I still struggled with being kind and liking people, but I no longer saw them as less than me. <br />
<br />
And, I was able to sit at table with sinners! I was able to serve them food and smile and throw all judgment to Jesus, who it had always belonged to anyway. And I was able to forgive those I viewed as filthy up until then. Because for the first time ever, I KNEW that I had also been guilty <em>of the very same sins.</em> <br />
<br />
<strong>And calls us to do the same!</strong><br />
<br />
God doesn't call us to GO to church or DO church. He calls us to BE His church! I don't recall where that came from, but wow. Exactly. We don't just go and do church, we ARE his church. <br />
<br />
We, as believers and followers of Christ, are called to be His hands and feet. <br />
<br />
This Christmas, somewhere out there, there is someone debating whether to invite the newly "out" gay relative to Christmas gatherings. Somewhere out there today, is a pregnant teenager that is terrified to tell her family for fear that she will be alone on Christmas morning while flu-like symptoms rage in her body to testify to the sin she fell into. Somewhere there is a drunk women who has just screamed in rage at her children. She tries to hide it in an orange juice drink...worried that she'll fall asleep instead of putting Santa's presents out. <br />
<br />
Will they be at your table this Christmas? Will you attend the party that they invite you to? <br />
<br />
There is someone out there today that could be dead tomorrow night. And God is calling you to be in His seat, for Him, reclining at the table with sinners. <br />
<br />
That drunk that could be at the bar, sitting at your cozy couch having hot cocoa in front of the fire.<br />
<br />
That teenager contemplating suicide, but instead decides to accept the invite to dinner.<br />
<br />
Homemade candy at New Years is passed to the young man who just "came out" instead of harsh words.<br />
<br />
What if? <br />
<br />
What if this person lived on another day to accept Christ in part because of the opportunity of another day your kindness made room for? Could angels be singing tomorrow instead of demons cheering at the death of a precious lost sheep? <br />
<br />
<strong>So, will they?</strong><br />
<strong>Will sinners be around your table this Christmas season?</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>I sure hope so.</strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong></strong><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-35751361721022902013-09-22T20:53:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:30:32.005-05:00The Tiny SeedWhy did Jesus choose to use the tiny mustard seed in His parable? Why not an acorn or other seed that produces a grand shade tree?<br />
<br />
Sometimes when I'm reading the bible, I get "stuck" on certain parts, and just sit on them for awhile. The parable of the mustard seed was one such parable. I had been studying the sower and the seed and found myself wondering why the kingdom of God was compared to a mustard seed instead of say, an acorn. Luke 8: 11, when explaining the sower and the seed, says "Now the parable is this: the seed is the word of God." Why didn't it make a distinction when comparing the seed with the word of God, but it did specify the type of seed in the parable of the mustard seed?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEu-hlnyQEn9qZ1j7JMVAkPCbe2Iq8eTmcixfKLoOnLCZJh-cyncUXeYvo9Dw_ZSO1OcMbHaVl0Fz_w6W8vXlPMzemXepk0SJnfBVOA95k9mYq6L-bcEhcredydEKWrZCfAFg4VQG8HEg/s1600/IMG_6409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEu-hlnyQEn9qZ1j7JMVAkPCbe2Iq8eTmcixfKLoOnLCZJh-cyncUXeYvo9Dw_ZSO1OcMbHaVl0Fz_w6W8vXlPMzemXepk0SJnfBVOA95k9mYq6L-bcEhcredydEKWrZCfAFg4VQG8HEg/s400/IMG_6409.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are the three versions so that you can easily read them:<br />
<br />
Matthew 13: 31-32<br />
He presented another parable to them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field; and this is smaller than all other seeds, but when it is full grown, it is larger than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches."<br />
<br />
Mark 4: 30-32 <br />
And He said, "How shall we picture the kingdom of God, or by what parable shall we present it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the soil, though it is smaller than all the seeds that are upon the soil, yet when it is sown, it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and forms large branches; so that the birds of the air can nest under its shade."<br />
<br />
Luke 13: 18-19<br />
So He was saying, "What is the kingdom of God like, and to what shall I compare it? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and threw into his own garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air nested in its branches."<br />
<br />
Here are some things I see right away:<br />
<ul>
<li>The seed that Jesus chose to use to compare it to the kingdom of God is tiny! Why?</li>
<li>It is a garden plant, or in other words isn't wild--it's purposefully planted.</li>
<li>and in Luke, the man planted it in his own garden</li>
<li>The mustard seed starts off tiny but ends up large</li>
</ul>
I know all this is obvious, but sometimes it helps to just jot down the obvious to make sure your brain really takes hold of it, ya know?<br />
<br />
Anyway, I prayed for a while about why it was a mustard seed. Why didn't God compare it to an acorn that becomes a great oak or a fruit tree's seed that produces apples or something? <br />
<br />
I know...I'm a little weird in how I think...but stay with me for a minute.<br />
<br />
So, one day, a few weeks after I had prayed about this little curiosity, I got an answer! <br />
<br />
My husband's aunt was sweeping her enormous porch while we were staying with them, and she just casually mentioned that if she didn't sweep often enough, those little bitty seeds would ruin her porch. I perked up and asked her to explain. She had an enormous porch...one that was well made, strong and beautiful. It went from her back door, the length of the back of her house and all the way around the pool. This was no easy chore. So she explained.<br />
<br />
Seeds would blow around her back yard from her garden, and the tiniest ones would settle between the cracks. If they were permitted to remain where they were, soil would settle in, roots would grow, and it would actually crack the foundation of that well built porch. The bigger seeds were no worry since they wouldn't fit in the cracks, but the tiny seeds were a bother. <br />
<br />
Wow! Amazing. There was a reason the seeds were tiny!<br />
<br />
In the next few weeks, I heard a sermon on the hardened heart. That was the ah ha moment for me! The Lord quietly whispered to my heart..."That's why the seed of the kingdom is so tiny".<br />
<br />
There's not much that can grow in a rock! But, God made sure that even the hardest of hearts would be able to accept the kingdom of God. <br />
<br />
Do you see it?<br />
Not every seed of the word of God is tiny. There are some real "walnut" seeds in there, if you catch my drift. But...what a miracle it is for an unbeliever to accept and believe the words of God! You see, the bigger seeds roll right off the hardened heart, but not so with the tiny ones. The tiny ones slip between the tiniest crack of the hardest hearted person. That tiny seed, if left alone, will collect soil and moisture...and will start to break apart the rock hard heart. Once the seeds of the kingdom of God break the hardened heart and begin the process of softening...only then can that heart accept bigger seeds. <br />
<br />
Jesus spread these seeds to whoever would listen. Then Jesus taught his disciples how to spread seeds. After Jesus's death and resurrection, the Holy Spirit came and then the church began to grow. It started with one man, Jesus (a very small beginning), but became enormous. Today, these seeds that Jesus first planted are still being spread. They are the Gospel--the good news! <br />
<br />
A broken heart isn't always a bad thing. Sometimes, God is breaking our hearts for a reason. <br />
<br />
Is your heart broken today or seems to be breaking a lot lately? <br />
<br />
Could God be breaking your heart (or mine) to make room for bigger seeds? Maybe you've already accepted the seeds of the kingdom, but God's preparing your heart for a bigger, meatier seed. What if a broken heart is the only way for our hearts to be prepared for those bigger seeds?<br />
<br />
Or, maybe you've never accepted Christ into your heart. Is your heart breaking lately and you just don't understand why? <br />
<br />
In these parables there was something interesting in Luke. The man threw the seed into his own garden! Maybe you've been given a seed. Maybe there's been a verse or passage of scripture you've heard lately that's breaking your heart. If so, you have two things that you could do with the seed. <br />
<br />
You can reject it.<br />
I've realized over my years as a Christian, that the times in my life that I experienced the most growth and change were in seasons of pain. Is God calling you through a broken heart? It's entirely possible. Sometimes I grow through it and sometimes I just get mad at what I'm going through and stay in pain. If you chose to reject it, that doesn't mean the pain will just go away. God wants you--He's jealous for you! And He loves you enough to prepare your heart for the seed that will change the rest of your eternity. There are many many people that reject Jesus. I hope that rejecting God's calling isn't the choice you make.<br />
<br />
You can plant the seed. <br />
The mustard seed is a garden seed. It's not going to accidentally fall in and grow. You have to decide to throw it in your garden. What exactly do I mean? <br />
Let's say, for example, that you've heard a verse that caught your attention. That small little passage of scripture is a mustard seed. Maybe it makes you mad. Or maybe it makes you cry. Maybe you just can't stop thinking about it. You now possess the seed. You hold it in your hand. It's been given to you to do with what you want to. You can throw it away or you can take it into your heart. <br />
<br />
So...if I decide to plant it how does that work?<br />
It's almost impossible to see a seed grow when it's underground, and there's certainly nothing you can do to force it to grow. The man in the parable just simply tossed it in. See, you don't have to do anything accept drop it on in. Your heart is the soil, so that's where you drop it. I believe you plant it the moment you ask God to help you understand it and then continue to read (or in some cases, listen to) it and keep searching for understanding. I think that the plants that you see as a result of God's seeds are unbelief growing into belief. When you look at a tiny seed, you can't even imagine what it will become (unbelief), but as it grows you begin to see it more and more until you see clearly (belief).<br />
<br />
Jeremiah 29: 13<br />
You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.<br />
<br />
Salvation is a free gift from God. It isn't offered to a select, special group of people. It is offered to everyone. It is offered to you.<br />
You can't, no matter how hard you try, make a seed out of nothing--just as you can't, no matter how hard you try, get to heaven on your own understanding or good works. But, if someone hands you a seed, you aren't forced to plant it either, are you? You could plant it and reap the benefits or you could toss it aside. You can accept God's salvation, Jesus Christ, or you could ignore it. It's up to you. <br />
<br />
What will you do with your seed?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Linking up at these fabulous blogs:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" title="It's Overflowing"><img alt="It's Overflowing" src="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Share-Your-Creativity-125.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
<br /><script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-54210723265778339582013-09-21T22:55:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:30:08.135-05:00Cooking Totally Intimidated Me UntilI've always been a wee (so, really...a LOT) intimidated by cooking. <br />
<br />
At first, when Josh and I got married, it was the same thing all.the.time. And, it sure wasn't grandiose, either. My menu looked something like this:<br />
<br />
Monday-Hot Dogs with Canned Chili<br />
Tuesday-Chicken Breasts (dry but edible) with boxed Mashed Potatoes and canned Green Beans<br />
Wednesday-Tacos and Burritos (using the taco season packets of course)<br />
Thursday-Whataburger<br />
Friday-Spaghetti (canned sauce) with packaged salad and bread if we were being fancy<br />
Saturday-Eggs and eat out the rest of the day<br />
Sunday-Eat out all day<br />
<br />
This didn't change much. We had other easily thrown together meals like baked in the microwave potatoes with chili, taco salad, and turkey ham with potatoes. I thought I was big stuff when I learned to stir-fry chicken and veggies!<br />
<br />
Then one day Josh complained. Oh, I'm not talking a big complaint...just a mention that we eat the same thing all the time. I was as tired of it as he was, but it still hurt my feelings. And...I got a little intimidated. I stared at the list, the same one. What was I supposed to do? I knew he didn't want that, but what else did I know how to cook? Nothing. <br />
<br />
We ate fast food a lot after that. We tried making it as healthy as we could...ya know, Panera Bread, Jason's Deli, and the like. But, we still ate Whataburger more than I'd like to admit and it was getting expensive. We were looking to buy a house in the near future and cooking would have to become a priority. I truly didn't know what to do. My next door neighbor and best friend taught me one meal and Josh's mom gave me another recipe that became a quick favorite...but it wasn't enough. <br />
<br />
What was I going to do?<br />
<br />
Then, I stumbled on this cookbook while browsing Barnes and Nobles shelves:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMapGAowDYjW6xfwnxqYbW5vBcPbJ_KBRbCP6Kt9qXmerkR4g9GKa4O_-eEARpXb1bafiYZekPxsXURC8G1kKAdrvv5BCLuYZh0XwrtzzoWRmeKcn4yMR-UwNWV0fXJSVRez5kDggP1w/s1600/IMG_6403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMapGAowDYjW6xfwnxqYbW5vBcPbJ_KBRbCP6Kt9qXmerkR4g9GKa4O_-eEARpXb1bafiYZekPxsXURC8G1kKAdrvv5BCLuYZh0XwrtzzoWRmeKcn4yMR-UwNWV0fXJSVRez5kDggP1w/s320/IMG_6403.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
How to Boil Water, life beyond takeout</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I laughed out loud right in the middle of the bookstore and then quickly hid the title against my chest to go find a seat and browse. As you can see, I bought it! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And, as you can see, I USED it! I used it so much that it began falling apart. It was fabulous. I had to put my favorite ones in sheet protectors!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDDp_tG7tDdv5r-LLVuIvyzxRvE8kokMdmoogpU711VGbsfW6Wr1G5JyE9S-EdeSwbPdfQAKxSc1UqNKah1g7GYeuUjEi9BQkYdXr532CJAFYjdRxnU8f646cP_ZMiVtf-rgI05cMlQuI/s1600/IMG_6406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDDp_tG7tDdv5r-LLVuIvyzxRvE8kokMdmoogpU711VGbsfW6Wr1G5JyE9S-EdeSwbPdfQAKxSc1UqNKah1g7GYeuUjEi9BQkYdXr532CJAFYjdRxnU8f646cP_ZMiVtf-rgI05cMlQuI/s320/IMG_6406.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It seriously had stuff *I* already knew:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsEs8AsAfBEQm1kN2F6cJWEoerpqlDarPEyWBCx-yzCvUVS_-PguRTzrn0GhtK1rXiB1dKcA-wp1iqzXD5XdLSp9orljneZxhhTiFjasj1jjm3wwhJPomVavqUgG3J4PFPveSl0WWLrpk/s1600/IMG_6407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsEs8AsAfBEQm1kN2F6cJWEoerpqlDarPEyWBCx-yzCvUVS_-PguRTzrn0GhtK1rXiB1dKcA-wp1iqzXD5XdLSp9orljneZxhhTiFjasj1jjm3wwhJPomVavqUgG3J4PFPveSl0WWLrpk/s320/IMG_6407.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and a lot I didn't. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I read the entire book--actually read it, and learned. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, don't get me wrong. Our menus didn't change over night. Here's what they looked like shortly after reading this book.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First week or two:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Monday-Hot Dogs with Canned Chili<br />
Tuesday-Chicken Breasts (dry but edible) with boxed Mashed Potatoes and canned Green Beans<br />
Wednesday-Tacos and Burritos (using the taco season packets of course)<br />
Thursday-Whataburger<br />
Friday-Spaghetti from the book<br />
Saturday-Eggs and eat out the rest of the day<br />
Sunday-Eat out all day<br />
<br />
A month later:<br />
<br />
Monday-Hot Dogs with Canned Chili<br />
Tuesday-Chicken Breasts (yum! I figured it out) with boxed Mashed Potatoes and canned Green Beans<br />
Wednesday-Tacos and Burritos (using the taco season packets of course)<br />
Thursday-Whataburger<br />
Friday-Spaghetti from the book with "real" salad and bread if we were being fancy<br />
Saturday-Eggs and eat out the rest of the day<br />
Sunday-Eat out all day<br />
<br />
A few months later:<br />
<br />
Monday-Eat Out<br />
Tuesday-Chicken Breasts with boxed Real Mashed Potatoes and canned Green Beans<br />
Wednesday-Tacos and Burritos (using a recipe from the book)<br />
Thursday-Whataburger<br />
Friday-Spaghetti from the book with "real" salad and bread if we were being fancy<br />
Saturday-Pancakes (big hit for the kids!) and eat out the rest of the day<br />
Sunday-Eat out all day<br />
<br />
A Year later:<br />
<br />
Monday-King Ranch Chicken that Josh's mom taught me<br />
Tuesday-Chicken Stir Fry<br />
Wednesday-Tacos Picadillo from the book<br />
Thurday-Salmon from the book with rice and peas<br />
Friday-Date with Josh<br />
Saturday-Egg Burritos and eat out the rest of the day<br />
Sunday-Eat out all day<br />
<br />
I wasn't a quick study, but there was progress! Josh noticed, and the next Christmas I got The Pioneer Woman Cooks. It was chock full of pictures and simple, doable recipes...and my cooking took another leap. Now, we're eating at home every breakfast but Sunday, lunch every weekday and most Saturdays, and I'm cooking dinner 4-5 nights a week!! I never thought I'd get there--seriously.<br />
<br />
<br />
Linking Up at these fabulous blogs:<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" title="It's Overflowing"><img alt="It's Overflowing" src="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Share-Your-Creativity-125.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-5647995186681728902013-09-21T21:50:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:29:38.475-05:00And $360 later...Nope, no new bookshelf or decorative piece to show off...although I do have some of that for later. Just groceries. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YNCpdlIb2qcVYkp9cgE-k1FnwuknfS3rj-Se2177cPgwuK1yiMHXT_nZXHGid0vwysf0pdtgsN0wequfZW6XeXja8LdpfvqEPdBQuLe7ilU05M6GiiKM14ioM2jmfuZ_yD3ZNwWxvgc/s1600/IMG_6402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YNCpdlIb2qcVYkp9cgE-k1FnwuknfS3rj-Se2177cPgwuK1yiMHXT_nZXHGid0vwysf0pdtgsN0wequfZW6XeXja8LdpfvqEPdBQuLe7ilU05M6GiiKM14ioM2jmfuZ_yD3ZNwWxvgc/s320/IMG_6402.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Yep, that's it folks.<br />
Every few months, all the "stars" align and we need diapers, garbage bags, and other big cost items all at once. You know the ones, right; Olive oil, toilet paper, or maybe more than one recipe calls for nuts and you didn't notice until you were on that aisle?<br />
<br />
Our normal weekly grocery shopping is more like $120 or something. It varies. We go to Aldi's a lot now that we have one close and it saves us a bundle, but when we need certain things we can't find there, we opt for HEB. This time it was Walmart--I HATE walmart--but we needed a whole lot and the kids wanted to bring their shopping money. That meant the opportunity to shop with only Bubzy in the cart since the older two would be on the toy aisles. We always spend more time and money than we plan when we go there. <br />
<br />
It's actually been surprisingly long since we've had one of these BIG shopping trips and I think it's because of something I've been trying. <br />
<br />
1. Whatever happens to be on the list, I go ahead and get extras of the pantry items that I use a lot. It's really great to look at my normal cookbooks and find a recipe that I seriously only need the meat and fresh produce. Score!! This has been happening a lot lately, since I've been grabbing extra cans, dry goods, pastas, favorite snacks, etc. <br />
<br />
2. When I see a recipe I've never tried before, but I really want to, I put ONE pantry item on the list that I know I don't have or have never used. I keep with that one recipe until one day, whala, I have everything but the fresh stuff. Time to try it out! <br />
<br />
3. I've been buying the fresh stuff for about 4 days worth of recipes, rather than all of them. I go ahead and plan two weeks of "menus", but I only get the pantry and freezable stuff for those recipes that I'm going to cook a little later. I wait on the fresh stuff for those meals and just list those items on a "get later" mini list. The mini list has stuff like fresh herbs that I'll need for next weeks roast or the bell peppers that I'm using for a recipe at the end of the week. Then, when I get to that time when I start needing the fresh stuff, Josh just picks up a few quick things from the store on his way home--usually the day before I'll need them. He usually gets the rest of the list at that time. It has saved many a veggy and herb from being wasted when it goes bad the day before I need it or the fresh rolls go moldy. This has saved us a bundle since we used to waste so much fresh produce!
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-60496228335059865982013-09-21T08:41:00.002-05:002014-01-03T20:57:10.573-06:003 Daily ChoresOne of the biggest Ah-ha moments in my home-making career was when I first realized that everything I had to do daily to keep my home looking nice was dishes, laundry, and tidying up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZaLIQJdjU0JlDBjt9ex7oFz8mrvHzerOnVFiYti_M0FN27sao5rv-h9c1LBANiNoRw7EJ_o_SECB7TTVA5lc4EjbnAgvvlFYT1Qx4wRtuqDQlNfE9264D0f5jerZSEcgEKNoxGS86_0/s1600/Abram+laundry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZaLIQJdjU0JlDBjt9ex7oFz8mrvHzerOnVFiYti_M0FN27sao5rv-h9c1LBANiNoRw7EJ_o_SECB7TTVA5lc4EjbnAgvvlFYT1Qx4wRtuqDQlNfE9264D0f5jerZSEcgEKNoxGS86_0/s400/Abram+laundry.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Oh, I was a master at breaking those down into like a bazillion little chores: make bed, fluff pillows, pick up clothes, tidy bathroom counter, wash sink, straighten bedroom, empty dishwasher, re-load dishwasher, throw trash away, put away kitchen clutter, wash countertops, hand wash pots and pans, shine sink....etc., etc., etc.<br />
<br />
At one time I had a chore list three PAGES long!! Hello?!<br />
<br />
I felt overwhelmed and defeated All The Time!
"I can't do all this," I would complain to God. "Please help me find a better way."
I knew I was a mess, I knew I wasn't good at being a home-maker, and I knew I couldn't figure this all out on my own. <br />
<br />
I would read blog after blog searching for the perfect chore list. It can't possibly be that simple, I would think. There are hundreds of jobs! How can they only write down a short little list and have a home that looks that nice? I didn't believe it.
<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Then one day, after praying for years, the thought just sorta settled in my brain; if I would just do dishes, laundry, and pick up stuff laying around...I could live with my house.</em></strong> <br />
<br />
See, I was looking for the PERFECT solution, the magic pill, or the list that would get up and do it for me. It was all or nothing for me...a very dangerous way to think...and I would either have every little perfect chore, down to cleaning the baseboards on the list, or a cleaning list wouldn't work for me. I was wrong.<br />
<br />
What I really needed, was a list I could easily memorize.
<br />
Dishes
<br />
Laundry
<br />
Tidy Up
<br />
<br />
Oh, I know there's more to it than that. I know there's more than one step in doing laundry or dishes and more than one room that needs tidying, but I could remember that. I knew there were weekly chores as well, but that wasn't my main problem. I would get sick of something stinking, like the trash or toilet, and just do it, but the mess was "harmless" and could wait.
<br />
<br />
I began, with my children, just working on those three every day. Some days I would just unload and re-load the dishes and forget about the rest of the kitchen. Sometimes I would clean every counter top and sweep, too. But, I would get in there and just work on the kitchen mess...and I started with dishes. That's all I had to remember: dishes. Then, it was up to me how far I went with it that day. For laundry, I would just make sure there was a load washed and dried every day, even if I piled the clothes somewhere to be folded later...at least they were all clean. Then, I set a timer in all of my main rooms for about 10 minutes and just picked up stuff: 10 minutes in the living room, 10 minutes in the kitchen, 10 minutes in the den, 10 minutes in the dining room, and 10 minutes in the kitchen if it wasn't finished already. If I just couldn't do that long on a given day, I picked up 10 items in each room instead, and the kids helped. Pretty soon it wasn't taking an entire 10 minutes for each room. When it became easier, I added other rooms.<br />
<br />
I know this sounds over simplistic...and it IS, but that's what I needed to begin.<br />
<br />
Linking Up at these fabulous blogs:<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" title="It's Overflowing"><img alt="It's Overflowing" src="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Share-Your-Creativity-125.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.aslobcomesclean.com/" target="_blank">A Slob Comes Clean</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-4801674133621928322013-09-20T11:42:00.000-05:002014-01-03T21:20:14.736-06:00Looking Back: How Far We've ComeI'm absolutely astounded with how far God has brought our family in the last few years (like 6). I want to be an encouragement to those still struggling through what I've waded through, just as those bloggers have been to me that are such an inspiration.
<br />
<br />
Sometimes, when I read blogs with all the great home pictures of decorated rooms and clean kitchens, I imagine that they've always lived like that. Ya know, as if that mom was just born to be a miracle worker of clean bathrooms, painted walls, and tidy children. (I'm still sure some of them were, lol). But...some of us struggle to make our houses into homes and that's WHY we blog about these things...to have a place of accountability, to journal about our progress, and to encourage other women who are where we were a few years back.<br />
<br />
The other day I was looking through my pictures, as I take SO MANY, and found a few that made me cry. I don't mean tear up a little, either. I mean I was bawling. Let me just show you a few.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4-wN7FreRKzzNJgnFCig8AXg9raSgUgUpx9GySsczguiF8s7ZD68xU4aL8TG5P2Eb95SWBTbvxFSqm4H6E3E2nCWZ1Uz8NAhmK32Nl0_LmpHBGYHp17cInNgH4u3Wv2icHfv5ub4dtQ/s1600/Looking+back+2007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4-wN7FreRKzzNJgnFCig8AXg9raSgUgUpx9GySsczguiF8s7ZD68xU4aL8TG5P2Eb95SWBTbvxFSqm4H6E3E2nCWZ1Uz8NAhmK32Nl0_LmpHBGYHp17cInNgH4u3Wv2icHfv5ub4dtQ/s640/Looking+back+2007.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I was babysitting at that time in my life, and some of these pictures had the child I was watching running around. The first thing that popped in my mind...before I really thought about it being my house...was, what kind of mom would let their child go there (to be watched daily). <br />
<br />
I was shocked by the realization!<em> It was MY house and I allowed it to stay that way a lot. </em>And when I thought about my children living in that house day in and day out, I cried. I had a flop-down-on-my-bed-buried-in-my-pillow cry.<br />
<br />
The thing is, I'm still a mess. I still struggle to get my laundry done and I still hate doing dishes...but the improvement is night and day. <br />
<br />
I've been praying about my home and my role as mother and wife for as long as I can remember. And ya know what? I didn't read one particular book that gave me an ah-ha moment, and I didn't have anyone come to my house and teach me, and I never found extra energy miraculously making daily cleaning easier. It was God. That's the only answer I have. In tiny, almost unnoticeable stages, HE has brought me from there to here.<br />
<br />
<br />
Here is my new home:
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGMpwcbX8mgVmJl7GIeFclfel7gHyfpQnbL-B11Vv9FqUWA3ACXSWh_jm6kAmXb45II7zXzAqyyMrQHzsCgjpTgiqaqbJaZjIO8-XdqurUdKfqaEUWspzSd6zKs4blqTCd_aexaOCu7I/s1600/New+House+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGMpwcbX8mgVmJl7GIeFclfel7gHyfpQnbL-B11Vv9FqUWA3ACXSWh_jm6kAmXb45II7zXzAqyyMrQHzsCgjpTgiqaqbJaZjIO8-XdqurUdKfqaEUWspzSd6zKs4blqTCd_aexaOCu7I/s320/New+House+2013.jpg" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
All I can say through tears and gladness and amazement, is that God HAS changed me. He's not finished with me yet...believe me, there's a long way for this Mama to go, but I have changed.
<br />
<br />
What about those still in the thick of it?<br />
<br />
Honey, I still consider myself in the thick of it...my home just looks way better now. But, I know what you mean. What about when you still live in that little apartment or rental that you don't even like, maybe hate, and you want so badly to have a nice home?<br />
<br />
First, pray a whole lot! <br />
God is the only one who can take you from where you are to where you want to be without tearing a hole in your finances and ruining your life. Trust that God is working on YOU rather than just your home. Ask him to reveal to you what he's trying to teach you and that you will be open to learning. <br />
<br />
I had a contentment issue with my home. It made me mad that "everyone else" could wave their credit cards in front of a cash register and magically decorate faster than me. It was also disheartening that when we made the decision that I would stay home to raise and teach our children, that other families with two incomes were moving up far faster than we were. <br />
<br />
It took a whole lot of God working on my heart to accept wherever I was as my place to minister to my family. I worked through a lot of bitterness and jealousy to make it to the other side. And, ya know what, my circumstances didn't change much at all until God was satisfied with how far I had come in my thinking. By the time we moved out of that town home, I had accepted that it could be my permanent home and that if I wanted to have a happy family in it, I would have to start working on it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5gB6YRPbVpskPEiXUNNrsBgwfZG4kYpbM5gH2lAhhJ_mCvHNbo49imzNK1x0mcMd2RHtVf_i0phxxymf4lqvQuvddZ0wd3kTWg25GS381aSBAJJQK7mhS04GIdWIltC1wGWsPAGRGDTM/s1600/change+2007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5gB6YRPbVpskPEiXUNNrsBgwfZG4kYpbM5gH2lAhhJ_mCvHNbo49imzNK1x0mcMd2RHtVf_i0phxxymf4lqvQuvddZ0wd3kTWg25GS381aSBAJJQK7mhS04GIdWIltC1wGWsPAGRGDTM/s320/change+2007.jpg" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdlkjia5sBo9HcCYHDXofCooqMt_hzKDi8Pe0D9_weURSNYQ9T3r1JMphm6UiD65kgo4-_B7RGu-L1dQbjFm3SnXGAxuS8o6u2rU8zJn8Q_Bdd82U7pFdqgyjU5dxv_xo7yXCskuFnq0/s1600/laundry+room+townhome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdlkjia5sBo9HcCYHDXofCooqMt_hzKDi8Pe0D9_weURSNYQ9T3r1JMphm6UiD65kgo4-_B7RGu-L1dQbjFm3SnXGAxuS8o6u2rU8zJn8Q_Bdd82U7pFdqgyjU5dxv_xo7yXCskuFnq0/s320/laundry+room+townhome.jpg" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Second, get your hands busy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I realize through the years that most of the improvement that happened was absolutely free! It was de-junking my home, organizing what was left, and cleaning up that truly made the biggest difference. I still hadn't learned this in the pictures above. Those were great pictures to show the progress we made, but it got back to a big mess quickly and stayed that way for long periods of time. I always prioritized other stuff ahead of cleaning up and it showed. I knew how to clean, but I actually had to do it regularly to make a difference to my family. I'm still learning this one, but I've come a long way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Third, do projects that give you big bang for your buck. Paint is incredibly cheap if you keep the supplies from one project to another. Painting is hard work but has really fabulous results and last a really long time. Almost everything I've decorated with over the years came from thrift stores or antique shops. It's amazing what you can find if you're determined to look. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And let people in on what you need. Somewhere someone is <em>looking</em> for that one person that will haul off their dining room table. These kind of HUGE blessings are how I've obtained about half of my furniture...and in return, when I'm ready to get rid of something, I give it away, too. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhVkh1a6I1BaS2nEgoKEYxxgCnYFiVUdFKHAgkYHHj1Z-cQQFeT1WoVl9VZBizwGpHzxTemwdysF306CF_7zXf97V8Qpo2EwT_nWkBwiPYIL9yiXto9fPVtB5ATiaqH0-ohH9Rw9wUUHw/s1600/IMG_3945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhVkh1a6I1BaS2nEgoKEYxxgCnYFiVUdFKHAgkYHHj1Z-cQQFeT1WoVl9VZBizwGpHzxTemwdysF306CF_7zXf97V8Qpo2EwT_nWkBwiPYIL9yiXto9fPVtB5ATiaqH0-ohH9Rw9wUUHw/s320/IMG_3945.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4HGyI4SZdusr6FvLYe7XV3yq3cobaUepS3vsk9amVpd1L5UIDsoTSf5L5r77gGKcerG_EKoZfos4w8WDSvJ66XxpmbTEVjZeaSS_YemP5nlkUNFAe1LMBHecuUZ5s2yiS45VXFsTWoM/s1600/IMG_5917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4HGyI4SZdusr6FvLYe7XV3yq3cobaUepS3vsk9amVpd1L5UIDsoTSf5L5r77gGKcerG_EKoZfos4w8WDSvJ66XxpmbTEVjZeaSS_YemP5nlkUNFAe1LMBHecuUZ5s2yiS45VXFsTWoM/s320/IMG_5917.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fourth, realize that your home and YOU are works in progress! There's never a time I've reached where I've said, "Wow...I'm done," and really been finished. You will always have another wall to paint, another drawer to clean out, another load of dishes or laundry to do, and a new way to organize your bookshelves. When I started blogging, I figured I would come to the end of my house and the blog would be over. Good news! I've realized that I could blog about my house and home until I'm old and grey. No problem. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And God's not done with ME yet either! I still have so much to learn and so many disciplines to train myself into. But, isn't that a GOOD thing? I think so. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
-Tabitha<br />
<br />
Linking Up at these amazing blogs:<br />
<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="http://tatertotsandjello.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/978446890_7b2ZN-O2.png" /></a><br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" title="It's Overflowing"><img alt="It's Overflowing" src="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Share-Your-Creativity-125.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script><a href="http://www.aslobcomesclean.com/" target="_blank">A Slob Comes Clean</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-10787256629742602812013-09-16T21:01:00.000-05:002013-09-21T08:28:52.624-05:00Master Closet Turned Toddler PlayroomYou should see the closets in this house...Ahhhhhh!<br />
<br />
I mean they are so dreamy! They're huge with built in shelves and ventilation and bright fluorescent lights. Amazing!! When I saw the closets in this house, I thought two things; why in the world did they not post these pics of closet space on Realtor? and I am SO GLAD they didn't put these amazing closet space pics on-line! I think this house would have sold like lightning if it would've been obvious. I know we snatched it right up! We're bargain hunters and we didn't even try that hard. (We at least got 'em down a little, but not like Dave Ramsey-would-be-proud kind of bargain.)<br />
<br />
So, when I walked into the master bedroom after deciding this was for us, an idea started developing. <br />
<br />
Look at the size of this closet: It's about 9x7<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwJ-q6UEX7ZlYcTkClIncGcbruRYqs89q_w5FiODghQw7Qs7-vj_DmwIkn1BGJ8WeG-T4t6YH_TPrgEVettcpE0MF-GCb7UdJmCn5Ahvter2PRGfBA0o210d0bhYDyjmC3Pmltka6o_e0/s1600/IMG_5667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwJ-q6UEX7ZlYcTkClIncGcbruRYqs89q_w5FiODghQw7Qs7-vj_DmwIkn1BGJ8WeG-T4t6YH_TPrgEVettcpE0MF-GCb7UdJmCn5Ahvter2PRGfBA0o210d0bhYDyjmC3Pmltka6o_e0/s320/IMG_5667.JPG" width="620" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Okay...I know, I know...I've seen bigger, too. But when you're used to a closet this size:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2K3bXaYEsEmLIc8UHAqZyq0J5EF8rRD6UONEIryggeAKx2hcPWDZNTJ0u2Fy0LPMN7D0gYe_MATlieMig1-KzbvdQ2XEbTvXuIgQ5RHGa_plqJ8JuSgxNWtLw7pDOAg5JWLhz8bekZo/s1600/255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2K3bXaYEsEmLIc8UHAqZyq0J5EF8rRD6UONEIryggeAKx2hcPWDZNTJ0u2Fy0LPMN7D0gYe_MATlieMig1-KzbvdQ2XEbTvXuIgQ5RHGa_plqJ8JuSgxNWtLw7pDOAg5JWLhz8bekZo/s320/255.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
(The left side was Josh's and the right side with the little hanging shelves was mine. I mean, every piece of clothing I had that didn't fit in a dresser was right there: all seasons, maternity, scarves...everything.) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Why in the world would I need a closet as big as what I got? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, Josh and I decided to share the men's closet and use the big one for Bubzy's own little play space/room. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At first we tried putting Bubzy's new little toddler bed in there and making it a tiny bedroom. I started putting the bed together...and Abby turned into Ms. Fix-it and took right over. She LOVED building her own little project and I think she did the whole thing almost by herself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliYlGJcsXYR7bz4CXbb-mM0hsWMWvtYJhcR7Fh7qI3XjZp3e-rAPSmSpt5Ny7iPfH63pLN45FRjp8_IoKTuRsvPGfXdsdMgN8-uqojPp2w6hFVR4ARkKB7dwcoDGUdpTyX-_yAGVsE4w/s1600/IMG_5673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliYlGJcsXYR7bz4CXbb-mM0hsWMWvtYJhcR7Fh7qI3XjZp3e-rAPSmSpt5Ny7iPfH63pLN45FRjp8_IoKTuRsvPGfXdsdMgN8-uqojPp2w6hFVR4ARkKB7dwcoDGUdpTyX-_yAGVsE4w/s320/IMG_5673.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3FTxMRgfVkUOQIdk9ZC8GDwrWsMV8yDcWd2ROEb9jREQzwiIgJbT-Wb5LFrEsIZOv69BVkmRQRhdv5Pm5yyweFef98-vHILmWIXuNmkk7373hG1z3jqxHj4gw6g31CYw0rW66_Q2QiiA/s1600/IMG_5680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3FTxMRgfVkUOQIdk9ZC8GDwrWsMV8yDcWd2ROEb9jREQzwiIgJbT-Wb5LFrEsIZOv69BVkmRQRhdv5Pm5yyweFef98-vHILmWIXuNmkk7373hG1z3jqxHj4gw6g31CYw0rW66_Q2QiiA/s320/IMG_5680.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjouXZAMV5L8ADfG-0qAcIG7rWIqvviesnLE06Fgk7Ezep6OYrVUhoHyjrxj_QxA5E0k9R1UIWPq4GRO-UtuoutIHovcnGFtymbOok4TUPA9ytjVhrGmYUCIq3Sx_0oELxqHQiyqH_BjAs/s1600/IMG_5682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjouXZAMV5L8ADfG-0qAcIG7rWIqvviesnLE06Fgk7Ezep6OYrVUhoHyjrxj_QxA5E0k9R1UIWPq4GRO-UtuoutIHovcnGFtymbOok4TUPA9ytjVhrGmYUCIq3Sx_0oELxqHQiyqH_BjAs/s320/IMG_5682.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8JAf5iv8mpB-kdz8ZUqIoJF6CLfYsf_IV9YTEiAL_gRFCAe8d_xZ2N33NTTv_aYB8rbM6SGKTK2ph2WJ0_FWrGjWVvxq4zuItr5cuPuI3anGVUMwBDDmvQj98V-5yMozmub7i_rdf8M0/s1600/IMG_5687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8JAf5iv8mpB-kdz8ZUqIoJF6CLfYsf_IV9YTEiAL_gRFCAe8d_xZ2N33NTTv_aYB8rbM6SGKTK2ph2WJ0_FWrGjWVvxq4zuItr5cuPuI3anGVUMwBDDmvQj98V-5yMozmub7i_rdf8M0/s320/IMG_5687.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We put a little rug and bean bag chair in the corner and it turned out so cute! Problem was...Bubzy didn't want to give up sleeping in Mom and Dad's bed, and even 7 steps away was too far. He loved it during the day, though and started calling it "Mine". He would go and sit on the bed, swing on the bar he could reach, and pull out toys to play with. We moved the bed right beside ours and we're still in the transition faze of getting him out of our bed, but it's at least possible now. We hope to move it back to this when he's a year older and sleeping on his own regularly. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, it pretty much stayed this way, minus the bed, until a week into school. We couldn't keep up with folding the laundry...so we washed, dried, and threw most of it in a basket. We kept stashing them behind the couch and folding little bits as we could. Well...I hosted a Ladies Night Out, and decided to throw all the clean clothes in Bubzy's space. Then we got a huge bag of hand-me-downs for Bubzy that also got dropped in there. That was last Thursday. Then, on Sunday we decided to tear through it to find clean socks and an outfit that would fit Bubzy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It looked like this in no time flat! Ahhhhhhh!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdp62kmPrhVNHtdrjYrBiutetAbJjbpIgFAE5ZqydUvcmEq1rEwRzJvCuf8BKRAI46QR3GRoQmuxEMZmTOfI7ujzDSwvJyT5gbOrCGbrvYHhiW5U60iigSQAx7ks4jbnxbc6_ubIqM77I/s1600/IMG_6312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdp62kmPrhVNHtdrjYrBiutetAbJjbpIgFAE5ZqydUvcmEq1rEwRzJvCuf8BKRAI46QR3GRoQmuxEMZmTOfI7ujzDSwvJyT5gbOrCGbrvYHhiW5U60iigSQAx7ks4jbnxbc6_ubIqM77I/s320/IMG_6312.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We weren't going to leave it that way long...Bubzy kept going in there looking for his Legos and saying "Mine". I hated to shoo him out of his own little space, but I mean...look at it! (At least they were all CLEAN clothes, right?)</div>
This weekend, we decided to make a project out of it, organizing his new hand-me-downs, looking through the clothes he had out to see what needed to be put away, folding all those neglected clean clothes...wrinkled and all, and make it into Bubzy's own little playroom. We had no idea it would turn into a half day project! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9br-TMxY5iAtdJdBlill1_YA4FiPNV8ivWd3UBqF1_ixDqORhYdGjYoX-MKHcqFT63mABMwy4CfRhWk9NY28O43A-bwM3wEiVZEmmO9Gzvc2Ha_enotFqpZld18nh746xnl1uUpO7EXo/s1600/the+big+sort.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9br-TMxY5iAtdJdBlill1_YA4FiPNV8ivWd3UBqF1_ixDqORhYdGjYoX-MKHcqFT63mABMwy4CfRhWk9NY28O43A-bwM3wEiVZEmmO9Gzvc2Ha_enotFqpZld18nh746xnl1uUpO7EXo/s320/the+big+sort.jpg" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Josh was a huge help as he took load after load of clean clothes to the bed to fold...plus other stuff like, "Hey Babe, can you put this way up there for me?"!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgljGrsyzqb6ofbJ-mMciW2sUD43iOrNUhtYfYo8kKJOc8WwELBMXglltZpVciAviJq_Bd9CKw4cUmcNXxbQDnglT2mqABWXpCYKUPLSMcMCL0m3mqmccwDbinzzl0-9SPl-lzHE9pO6Q4/s1600/IMG_6331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgljGrsyzqb6ofbJ-mMciW2sUD43iOrNUhtYfYo8kKJOc8WwELBMXglltZpVciAviJq_Bd9CKw4cUmcNXxbQDnglT2mqABWXpCYKUPLSMcMCL0m3mqmccwDbinzzl0-9SPl-lzHE9pO6Q4/s320/IMG_6331.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That much! Oh, no, that was a whittled down pile. Thanks Hun! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As the clean clothes disappeared from the floor and the fabulous new pile of Bubzy sized clothes were sorted, the floor started to look normal again. It just needed some toy sorting with help from Bubzy and a good vacuuming. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVgbo5ZslMqBZ96HJWJVXCU1HrY9TzxzEQBsD9Ysc5sTePkOZ0_78uQog773_xRKvqpujzvtBd3-g37Gi8x0gSOSkBbiE3GDgx6UGmDpLBDXQ3RPZ4UevLZnZq6FRNnaEVjuRwHFiyCA/s1600/Finishing+Up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVgbo5ZslMqBZ96HJWJVXCU1HrY9TzxzEQBsD9Ysc5sTePkOZ0_78uQog773_xRKvqpujzvtBd3-g37Gi8x0gSOSkBbiE3GDgx6UGmDpLBDXQ3RPZ4UevLZnZq6FRNnaEVjuRwHFiyCA/s320/Finishing+Up.jpg" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now for the RESULTS:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh55chL2hG7wkS1m6dUV4_bOf8JAeLKpSIdJR_xeFQK9POIjpyUqZT9AzwG9M9fInHhjMalnoooLnT0ph-wqYeVHPS1FxkKWAhOzHh4XccPFZmD7LOIKtl_m6NN50AHujBuAsqWeaHALY8/s1600/IMG_6343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh55chL2hG7wkS1m6dUV4_bOf8JAeLKpSIdJR_xeFQK9POIjpyUqZT9AzwG9M9fInHhjMalnoooLnT0ph-wqYeVHPS1FxkKWAhOzHh4XccPFZmD7LOIKtl_m6NN50AHujBuAsqWeaHALY8/s320/IMG_6343.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmrV2rk30XNY2UfkNGIYZAXrErTdwVQZ_56KCmRFG93cOmmuOS8YA91sP6JabZev65mXINoLL1hA25uNRL6o7xyuZiyfVEdfN4Tjjv4IYRtA6k00gYBSmfjY19CwLsxlIyEgdhuSfLHZw/s1600/IMG_6344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmrV2rk30XNY2UfkNGIYZAXrErTdwVQZ_56KCmRFG93cOmmuOS8YA91sP6JabZev65mXINoLL1hA25uNRL6o7xyuZiyfVEdfN4Tjjv4IYRtA6k00gYBSmfjY19CwLsxlIyEgdhuSfLHZw/s320/IMG_6344.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEFoieNigGHeoKkeeZk4L1YQdC5JGEmXibz3kuwVpUmlgZve6VJtrU4BAZ5aCBGLg1bKTmPoAO32C3BBa8h7SH8sgTEvqqlLWTCQy4te7kU4fa15Jk6SvEl5Uqcwgmp605R1-iDzjy18U/s1600/IMG_4203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEFoieNigGHeoKkeeZk4L1YQdC5JGEmXibz3kuwVpUmlgZve6VJtrU4BAZ5aCBGLg1bKTmPoAO32C3BBa8h7SH8sgTEvqqlLWTCQy4te7kU4fa15Jk6SvEl5Uqcwgmp605R1-iDzjy18U/s320/IMG_4203.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXGwkxYxK2GFGhY6uRl5wQ0GJn6NwjvlErUnza1_i8bwRo7trc1gXdYWLHXiwde86Fm0jVhULhyphenhyphenRf_6mQPX3t17yNnvK52U2ed-mZWkp0sOBWQfGzRtq3OBn1oJXG3pemhaZ-Q5_tMDSw/s1600/IMG_4205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXGwkxYxK2GFGhY6uRl5wQ0GJn6NwjvlErUnza1_i8bwRo7trc1gXdYWLHXiwde86Fm0jVhULhyphenhyphenRf_6mQPX3t17yNnvK52U2ed-mZWkp0sOBWQfGzRtq3OBn1oJXG3pemhaZ-Q5_tMDSw/s320/IMG_4205.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZFTDMtcaN1FxbSNT6J3l0AO6NoTeqah0kC6pR-f1M3ddcD9TLc4mkAKzo1_9j7KGqhyphenhyphen0IG3TN7JIHOywaxwm2ePjDAKAwxbWH7yDPuYAX3UcJhNqtTxTYDeqLbBQF7RCR4CD0ghERA4/s1600/IMG_6359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZFTDMtcaN1FxbSNT6J3l0AO6NoTeqah0kC6pR-f1M3ddcD9TLc4mkAKzo1_9j7KGqhyphenhyphen0IG3TN7JIHOywaxwm2ePjDAKAwxbWH7yDPuYAX3UcJhNqtTxTYDeqLbBQF7RCR4CD0ghERA4/s320/IMG_6359.JPG" width="439" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqIfIcfHQZNH6J83STR9kzjUgSKvyWl8o0i5gDMaB08j5bh-82CXIQ8gCwR17vUjojsgIQwR4co7iP23gmGMXb_THPa1fAQaM3b37B7w5SGDnyLOAMpX9eZYcQGx3Zo6eDmLhjmXzE-Y/s1600/IMG_4212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqIfIcfHQZNH6J83STR9kzjUgSKvyWl8o0i5gDMaB08j5bh-82CXIQ8gCwR17vUjojsgIQwR4co7iP23gmGMXb_THPa1fAQaM3b37B7w5SGDnyLOAMpX9eZYcQGx3Zo6eDmLhjmXzE-Y/s320/IMG_4212.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjCHe0uBaXYfyMfC6t3P9QzgGI7rZuLPC_DR_zjzVtCZc9AUuXaxemp5C9s8wYE17m4k28b4OT9PR1bGWWFsuTuMG4weMUArL2lRgB7ptNCZLqAr1Vn5j1MBUpWyzdjSCioqUhwegHCA/s1600/IMG_6370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjCHe0uBaXYfyMfC6t3P9QzgGI7rZuLPC_DR_zjzVtCZc9AUuXaxemp5C9s8wYE17m4k28b4OT9PR1bGWWFsuTuMG4weMUArL2lRgB7ptNCZLqAr1Vn5j1MBUpWyzdjSCioqUhwegHCA/s320/IMG_6370.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrznEgtBs9Z8aexe5P1iZfYZCHqXNMgu7lu57RzAYw6yZM4Yn6AkyOFXVGb8IZhPg34w6_zMwStefs6eeFNEtmYh7Gv4KB10FILTs3DkUMoT2ER9fdX_fJJ_E97OEM5C-MJRssvm1dgII/s1600/IMG_6337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrznEgtBs9Z8aexe5P1iZfYZCHqXNMgu7lu57RzAYw6yZM4Yn6AkyOFXVGb8IZhPg34w6_zMwStefs6eeFNEtmYh7Gv4KB10FILTs3DkUMoT2ER9fdX_fJJ_E97OEM5C-MJRssvm1dgII/s320/IMG_6337.JPG" width="239" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KSmvGIN92eIvoF98iWFfi0y9BfT_OCF9VhA1Fr3Qs9UZqvRMXEFGgT6JyLkTPKn4eiuyqmYinRP0QCL9BuGJbMRhWbL5ckCQgBlBw6PIGyBd-FmDvny0EbHj6RCjDHwvImvfodbf7AU/s1600/IMG_6366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KSmvGIN92eIvoF98iWFfi0y9BfT_OCF9VhA1Fr3Qs9UZqvRMXEFGgT6JyLkTPKn4eiuyqmYinRP0QCL9BuGJbMRhWbL5ckCQgBlBw6PIGyBd-FmDvny0EbHj6RCjDHwvImvfodbf7AU/s320/IMG_6366.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUveYBQDlk2mL71Wn9kV_RE8JZ0pbtUHnthe-ruadF0rQViH8am_KKKppwLOPsPkzeZwSn6NEe7TIarnnFN6Unu_MoGc0zpui7VlGPrLcDFK7I1G4MgsfSXXYBKJq0DCJxen9tmmHrJ8/s1600/IMG_6346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUveYBQDlk2mL71Wn9kV_RE8JZ0pbtUHnthe-ruadF0rQViH8am_KKKppwLOPsPkzeZwSn6NEe7TIarnnFN6Unu_MoGc0zpui7VlGPrLcDFK7I1G4MgsfSXXYBKJq0DCJxen9tmmHrJ8/s320/IMG_6346.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhiVnnOWNDTNy6e73Rrc8ZLCXNlHhBpE2iFLBK5s9Env2YTUr9sxXzI5CTUM0B4Q4_BVl4tKCj2rRxF3QjN_HxPIaA9rs5Ed9YY6VH8dPTezlFDkXmDw_WkHMhNNV-jne4nzQPLNfCf8/s1600/IMG_6363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhiVnnOWNDTNy6e73Rrc8ZLCXNlHhBpE2iFLBK5s9Env2YTUr9sxXzI5CTUM0B4Q4_BVl4tKCj2rRxF3QjN_HxPIaA9rs5Ed9YY6VH8dPTezlFDkXmDw_WkHMhNNV-jne4nzQPLNfCf8/s320/IMG_6363.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZMcCwSgjdizQFdZrimSjc0fchqWqtXdsAMQiZ2O0yVSdcbPl_8FNrrwc3QvoTK3JZ6vzgCUH_UQaqueFX2QakeJe9Paf1S7RtDdX1hLEqwjm3-56WDptyTbV1J6smcwvmNsWqeihDUxk/s1600/IMG_4206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZMcCwSgjdizQFdZrimSjc0fchqWqtXdsAMQiZ2O0yVSdcbPl_8FNrrwc3QvoTK3JZ6vzgCUH_UQaqueFX2QakeJe9Paf1S7RtDdX1hLEqwjm3-56WDptyTbV1J6smcwvmNsWqeihDUxk/s320/IMG_4206.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrv5GzVc5hASFhjTaQhsJ8ZcvPSvW-awSD1RiPvNenvl2qZXvQBcOB8od26AsOvQE_EIeJbEPJWxVhN_keLMiuYAG6fO3H0RnHE-ezzf8OZQBrPbY_EeoHfQsGJQQ7F8F5B5eWhHsVO2o/s1600/IMG_6374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrv5GzVc5hASFhjTaQhsJ8ZcvPSvW-awSD1RiPvNenvl2qZXvQBcOB8od26AsOvQE_EIeJbEPJWxVhN_keLMiuYAG6fO3H0RnHE-ezzf8OZQBrPbY_EeoHfQsGJQQ7F8F5B5eWhHsVO2o/s320/IMG_6374.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkIABw5tSjEp-1RTPyNdVyapT5OrBgNx7p_JrPNlaQA3nh8Tuc_BCYF8cXIVkcJEGVVirP-yH8qk5IkDltEgNU_D7k8zBKx6finVT0n8AUS5_yXzwAx-UD0hD4v3NbyeZsUcgVEaDkZA/s1600/IMG_4201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkIABw5tSjEp-1RTPyNdVyapT5OrBgNx7p_JrPNlaQA3nh8Tuc_BCYF8cXIVkcJEGVVirP-yH8qk5IkDltEgNU_D7k8zBKx6finVT0n8AUS5_yXzwAx-UD0hD4v3NbyeZsUcgVEaDkZA/s320/IMG_4201.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So...what do y'all think, gals?? We LOVE it!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Linking Up at these AMAZING Blogs:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://www.abowlfulloflemons.net/2013/09/one-project-at-a-time-91713.html" target="_blank">A Bowl Full of Lemons</a><br />
<a href="http://cornerstoneconfessions.com/2013/09/t2t-linky-party-69.html" target="_blank">Titus2Tuesdays</a>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="http://tatertotsandjello.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/978446890_7b2ZN-O2.png" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" title="It's Overflowing"><img alt="It's Overflowing" src="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Share-Your-Creativity-125.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-16778598638713156022013-09-13T10:36:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:26:44.818-05:00Our Playroom is ReadyOkay, so the desk is still full of junk to be gone through, but it's ready to show you!<br />
<br />
I've always wanted the kids to have a separate play room just for all their toys, games, and fun stuff. I'm a sap when it comes to de-cluttering toys. I mean seriously...they will eventually grow out of them anyway, right? Of course, I wanted it organized, too. A playroom was my dream extra room second only to a library.<br />
<br />
Are you ready? Come on up the stairs. There's a little half bath right there beside them. There's even a baby gate that keeps kids from running up to the stairs too fast. (I'm taking the picture from the media room that faces the bathroom. No need to show that--boring little square room with an old couch and huge cluncky t.v.) <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ADMGhC1vgXAXvdzRV_7ZWVgtDKdARFYZllOZxg4JPdB2IJWZ5TGghjW5px51seu27rTymMimn-nqBi-qKNpCYkNyGaNYRHFbHnB5YGVqQah6fVJV2NXXZCKM_t1IfjNI1pP5FVHfZPY/s1600/IMG_6134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ADMGhC1vgXAXvdzRV_7ZWVgtDKdARFYZllOZxg4JPdB2IJWZ5TGghjW5px51seu27rTymMimn-nqBi-qKNpCYkNyGaNYRHFbHnB5YGVqQah6fVJV2NXXZCKM_t1IfjNI1pP5FVHfZPY/s200/IMG_6134.JPG" width="149" /></a>We spent some of our house money that we made on bookshelves and organizing bins for the playroom. The kids are so excited...and we can't wait to show you.<br />
<br />
Remember when we put the shelves together?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/new-shelves-in-kids-playroom.html" target="_blank">New Shelves In The Kid's Playroom</a><br />
<br />
So, here's the pictures you've been waiting for!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8H1EQMOFVumYFT5wrNJojFU8Dm7qVAxpJnidqTYTZxdTakP3j_sQMXFg1_foVGtg9ZP6HtdmoPOWUGvGLX7jBSv2SHo4UBlP9tbQRtLzC9Ra_sePj2RyMTw72IfzmYAjGLq9ME-sGSI/s1600/IMG_6131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8H1EQMOFVumYFT5wrNJojFU8Dm7qVAxpJnidqTYTZxdTakP3j_sQMXFg1_foVGtg9ZP6HtdmoPOWUGvGLX7jBSv2SHo4UBlP9tbQRtLzC9Ra_sePj2RyMTw72IfzmYAjGLq9ME-sGSI/s320/IMG_6131.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Just a little peek at the black bookshelves. I know, I know, show us already. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYh5Oz1kC_Sg9D8DJwttLPhyphenhyphenuhAWPny16zIk7QqUlEhG6r6J4hyAtxJbBLMIbFht4rtk2j_tZ4CNzxRjffoG5d8jpC9pwg26RJXawCmOUQG12MI0s_9G1W8kwzOtYfJiOl0ab6eLKWIGw/s1600/IMG_5943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYh5Oz1kC_Sg9D8DJwttLPhyphenhyphenuhAWPny16zIk7QqUlEhG6r6J4hyAtxJbBLMIbFht4rtk2j_tZ4CNzxRjffoG5d8jpC9pwg26RJXawCmOUQG12MI0s_9G1W8kwzOtYfJiOl0ab6eLKWIGw/s320/IMG_5943.JPG" width="239" /></a><br />
<br />
Okay, but first let me show you what happened when we set up the shelves, but didn't go up there to help them organize it...and then let them go crazy and wild up there.<br />
<br />
So, daily we'd do our downstairs chores and ignore this...but they would bring all the toys found down there upstairs like I told them to.<br />
<br />
Guess where they put it all? Yep. Right at the top of the stairs.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, after two straight days of organizing and cleaning up....</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIZw2uC9dRDzQQYJNaipfkhI4wQJzuOwcNJPR5zyFI9d8xHYA-DAWXmDAIygBmQQxhNsc5Cq6PNfrjiAQlbD808USfElUsc7s1mbtIZ-QSyNeNDdWE6suXbwzhAq8IErhgiw2-bLCNBs/s1600/IMG_6137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIZw2uC9dRDzQQYJNaipfkhI4wQJzuOwcNJPR5zyFI9d8xHYA-DAWXmDAIygBmQQxhNsc5Cq6PNfrjiAQlbD808USfElUsc7s1mbtIZ-QSyNeNDdWE6suXbwzhAq8IErhgiw2-bLCNBs/s320/IMG_6137.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Same basic view from the top of the stairs. There's tons of natural light up there, which we love! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCphIj0uwHcmYnhEz21Ufs20Z84GadIjoQ7yCjrg-Vj-wjewJRbjB4Zr1wDkl3ATeOZC-QsgaITaEL8Q5EI2kSb1XcFNA4V6NhV4lEmbYbOKZScXMJVObj0dd2X_gXE9dEwGKfc_IwotY/s1600/IMG_6130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCphIj0uwHcmYnhEz21Ufs20Z84GadIjoQ7yCjrg-Vj-wjewJRbjB4Zr1wDkl3ATeOZC-QsgaITaEL8Q5EI2kSb1XcFNA4V6NhV4lEmbYbOKZScXMJVObj0dd2X_gXE9dEwGKfc_IwotY/s320/IMG_6130.JPG" width="320" /></a>I just love the archways in our new house. The stairs are right below the light, the bathroom to the left and media room to the right. The archway gives a simple, elegant entryway to the playroom without separating it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmKQyiPTsm3M96nSyO25R9NEAN2Iu7ZsEFZyami4S5lLHYCfa9XcPViRUQjEkG0EWYI2WVMMJUG9eirdUYPEE6NJAGWaWx-X_9zehZjsLQQ7XRgGFUqoZColr9zt1bGqGIEL17LtAXBQ/s1600/IMG_6112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmKQyiPTsm3M96nSyO25R9NEAN2Iu7ZsEFZyami4S5lLHYCfa9XcPViRUQjEkG0EWYI2WVMMJUG9eirdUYPEE6NJAGWaWx-X_9zehZjsLQQ7XRgGFUqoZColr9zt1bGqGIEL17LtAXBQ/s320/IMG_6112.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
Oh my goodness...I am SO excited about all the toy shelves!!! We already had the big ones on the right and bought the other three at Ikea. They barely fit on that far wall. Josh even had to cut off the end of the baseboard where they sit, which almost make them look built-in. I bought two of the medium size that have 8 box-shelf spaces and a tall one with 5 box-shelves to lay on it's side in between. We put all the pillows and big stuffed toys here and it can be used as a bench if they want. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbIw8WbF36beK5E9Ut-alFnS7KmgaeAoE9pqy7e8Qxy9IIf9-Sy8SPnq4kLIO3I4giZaOPyh5EJ-5T0E60wjM4QLIHV9YLDcL1IdrF8_hPQ_5E2uNQyh1FE5YE0ygttY94L5OsN9sgw8c/s1600/IMG_6121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbIw8WbF36beK5E9Ut-alFnS7KmgaeAoE9pqy7e8Qxy9IIf9-Sy8SPnq4kLIO3I4giZaOPyh5EJ-5T0E60wjM4QLIHV9YLDcL1IdrF8_hPQ_5E2uNQyh1FE5YE0ygttY94L5OsN9sgw8c/s320/IMG_6121.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
We put Abby's Barbie house over in the corner and her Barbies in the nearby pink canvas bins on the shelves. All the Fisher Price big toys are on top and the little people and pieces in the blue canvas bins. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQk-ITAL4GbGqzgZNKv7zuyRcK0b1pm1vR25KsCaRjJVQQgOVl7bsJCykfGfhtFAMGU8HXQZu__g1-SoMPeZuhKrdq-Seq2eQGzluKZ3lUsHIRHYIPfJzLzbdtGiHGETRN6-0LLvWb_U/s1600/IMG_6123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQk-ITAL4GbGqzgZNKv7zuyRcK0b1pm1vR25KsCaRjJVQQgOVl7bsJCykfGfhtFAMGU8HXQZu__g1-SoMPeZuhKrdq-Seq2eQGzluKZ3lUsHIRHYIPfJzLzbdtGiHGETRN6-0LLvWb_U/s320/IMG_6123.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
And if you keep scanning around the room past the Barbie house, Abram's dress up is in the tall white laundry basket, all the big toys that really take up space are in the big blue tub, and the clear tub next to it is our Lego collection. We put that little wood shelf back there as a display shelf. If they've made crafts or Lego buildings or stuff like that, they can display it there. If it gets too full, they have to choose what goes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSf_OySTdltveGetDd7ZuKYyqBebUffDRqgYutHh-RwBAf6zKmjSpjwiUf_1ffgyRMqYK-SRKptYxqxbIGZvwUKKfgFtwv6sausApg0ZE01LxA8qUay_7jnGXN1AITXLUS_bBSVEqyLU4/s1600/IMG_6127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSf_OySTdltveGetDd7ZuKYyqBebUffDRqgYutHh-RwBAf6zKmjSpjwiUf_1ffgyRMqYK-SRKptYxqxbIGZvwUKKfgFtwv6sausApg0ZE01LxA8qUay_7jnGXN1AITXLUS_bBSVEqyLU4/s320/IMG_6127.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Then there's the (still unorganized) desk that we're going to use for a craft area. Abby's going to probably be glued to that area once we have it finished. <br />
<br />
The big black shelves have a lot of sets: small stuffed toys, games, cars and tracks, baby doll clothes, etc.<br />
<br />
The corner of the room is Abby's "house", with a toy kitchen and pantry, a nice soft chair and rug and a baby doll crib. She stores her dress up in the tall white basket beside the chair.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The kids have so much fun in here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtoTgT3rWgd-mIoI7n10qxCnLNRt5wRTk1AElADOjKtbr6pOzJw5SxKqcRoIU_AjDQbsgf7PPPfJmVjnKDkRfK2wABbllEM_0W_0EyCZikh92stiDWnbeojl4NrN0-ES_UqgdyuyIO14/s1600/IMG_6115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtoTgT3rWgd-mIoI7n10qxCnLNRt5wRTk1AElADOjKtbr6pOzJw5SxKqcRoIU_AjDQbsgf7PPPfJmVjnKDkRfK2wABbllEM_0W_0EyCZikh92stiDWnbeojl4NrN0-ES_UqgdyuyIO14/s400/IMG_6115.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiir-VRRMr82ceCEiCLnJflug5XrGnGNkF3M31JvzUa1d9XnTCpauByA44Ay1TTrSldEdpcYTPFknF4XuGrw74Etz60a9hzXKxVpgHluH0Eh9cdW-iKBhFpLqkApHrluQRXNOnmwWs9wKE/s1600/IMG_6124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiir-VRRMr82ceCEiCLnJflug5XrGnGNkF3M31JvzUa1d9XnTCpauByA44Ay1TTrSldEdpcYTPFknF4XuGrw74Etz60a9hzXKxVpgHluH0Eh9cdW-iKBhFpLqkApHrluQRXNOnmwWs9wKE/s400/IMG_6124.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Linking Up to these Amazing Blog Parties:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.abowlfulloflemons.net/2013/09/one-project-at-a-time-91713.html" target="_blank">A Bowl Full of Lemons</a><br />
<a href="http://cornerstoneconfessions.com/2013/09/t2t-linky-party-69.html" target="_blank">Titus2Tuesdays</a><br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" title="It's Overflowing"><img alt="It's Overflowing" src="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Share-Your-Creativity-125.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="http://tatertotsandjello.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/978446890_7b2ZN-O2.png" /></a>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-43684924194373542982013-09-12T22:30:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:25:39.243-05:00The Down Side of Home-schoolingIf you've missed any of my posts taking a peek into our home-schooling lives, you can go back and read them. I've linked them here for your convenience. These are my articles on the positive side of home-schooling. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/back-to-home-school-my-class.html" target="_blank">Back to (Home) School: My Class</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/why-i-homeschool-big-question.html" target="_blank">Why I Home-school: The Big Question</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/home-schooling-how-i-teach-my-children.html" target="_blank">Home-schooling: How I Teach My Children To Read</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/when-and-where-do-we-home-school.html" target="_blank">When and Where Do We Home-School</a><br />
<br />
(And of course, you can also go to the Homeschool page at the top of my blog.)<br />
<br />
However, when parents are seriously considering whether or not to homeschool their children, they want to see reality in both directions. Sure...show me all the great things, but what are we going to give up if we decide to homeschool? So, I want to take a moment and give you the down side of home-schooling...because even though I've read some hilarious articles that joke and poke about the down-side of home-schooling...that's not what you're looking to read about. Before taking on something this monumental, it's wise to count the cost first.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KuYNXXXd3V5ERg_tDZgujGIuF98mP57LnRAJnqzDukGluQIXpIZLxLBaSJodYofJEwUTD8yFirNE8s0GmfbFcfnGdDoB6MXMKbK4J7iK8AvvPFa1LgCyQ5_kQMAPoAjZ7R3KWTnqqCQ/s1600/IMG_6278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KuYNXXXd3V5ERg_tDZgujGIuF98mP57LnRAJnqzDukGluQIXpIZLxLBaSJodYofJEwUTD8yFirNE8s0GmfbFcfnGdDoB6MXMKbK4J7iK8AvvPFa1LgCyQ5_kQMAPoAjZ7R3KWTnqqCQ/s400/IMG_6278.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The Mess!!!<br />
Okay, this one is my biggest struggle, as some of you have read about in other posts. You know those hours a day when the kids are all in school (except the baby, possibly), and you catch up on the laundry and cleaning the bathrooms and put things back in order? <br />
Not when you homeschool. Those same hours are spent teaching children to read, sitting beside them while they figure out a new math concept, and reminding them not to stare out the window. Seriously.<br />
I get to sneak off occasionally, but only to go pee by myself or to make the bed really quick. I may have time to put a package of frozen chicken in the sink to thaw while they're at the table working, but I've never successfully cleaned an entire toilet without coming back to all three kids in separate rooms and 30 minutes of rounding up to get them all back on track.<br />
So...the mess is something you have to learn to tackle creatively. (We handle it by taking time every morning to just put the worst offenders behind us--1 1/2 hours or so. Then we just do a couple of cleaning jobs as needed on the weekends.)<br />
This may sound a lot like what women deal with when they go off to work daily. It might be similar if you were able to leave your children at home while you were gone to play, eat, read, and generally continue to pull out things you will have to pick up after you get home. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicEKlC59fz8kY2A_TUG8J5xp3-Ed6f5vp0k4kALtH8y1tjzjtkgU5zkAn59sVbBXoMEJdD0NKs2Hwlq_GixNgAltqUE1UWP8wC8UkVJG8Rcl8A6nfyLf8Uh6W0rDhAtxMhj89s8KHmE70/s1600/IMG_6219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicEKlC59fz8kY2A_TUG8J5xp3-Ed6f5vp0k4kALtH8y1tjzjtkgU5zkAn59sVbBXoMEJdD0NKs2Hwlq_GixNgAltqUE1UWP8wC8UkVJG8Rcl8A6nfyLf8Uh6W0rDhAtxMhj89s8KHmE70/s320/IMG_6219.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Interruptions!<br />
Imagine you're in the middle of a reading lesson and the doorbell rings. It not only stopped a lesson that was going well, but woke up the baby and distracted the older student sitting at the table. That one doorbell ringing is so innocent. The person on the other side just wanted to stop by and say hi, see if you would like to buy a magazine, or was making sure your package wouldn't get rained on. But...it still stopped school in it's tracks. Now, if the person at the door is only there for two little minutes, it doesn't seem like it would be a big deal, right? But...now you've got to find your place in the book your child was reading, tell your older student that you don't mind if she gets a drink but then she needs to get right back to work, and while you're pointing to the reading page, the other arm is full with a grumpy nursing baby that was woken up.<br />
BUT...it's not just the doorbell. It's the phone that you ignore but that beeps a reminder until you check it, it's friends texting you while you're in the middle of something and even telling them you're busy right now takes 4 messages. It's the child who isn't thirsty (or hungry) when everyone else is, but is starving or in tears thirty minutes later. It's the neighbor that's parents allow their child to come by and visit every...single...day, and think that it's a great break for them and doesn't take a thought to the fact you may still be doing school, finally finished with school and the first bit of quiet has just set in, or that you've now gone from working with children to working with more children. It's the toddler who is potty training and needs to go every other page in the science book you're reading or who spills red juice on the table and it's climbing steadily to the off-white cushion on the chair pushed under the table. It's the computer that decides to crash in the middle of looking up what the state flag of New Mexico looks like. It's the child who has an emotional breakdown because they aren't getting how division works or a friend hurt their feelings and it's just coming up during a story. <br />
<br />
Big Life Interruptions: It's not just the little interruptions in life that happen. We've been through two hurricanes, two moves, two children born (pregnancy and newborn baby aren't without major interruptions), and I've broken my leg and been in a major wreck that put me on bed-rest with my last pregnancy. All of this has happened since we began our home-schooling journey less than 10 years ago! That's almost one major life event a year. That's one time a year that either stalls, halts or changes the way you do school. Yep! And don't think it won't happen to you. It may be different, but they will come.<br />
<br />
Multiple Grades:<br />
Wouldn't it be nice to only teach three or four students? Actually, I'm not just teaching three or four students, but three or four grades minimum. Think pioneer days schoolhouse, where one is learning to read, one is boasting about how great they are at math and the other one barely knows how to count to ten.<br />
AND, most of the time each individual student isn't in one particular grade, either. We might call Abigail a 5th grader, but she may be working on junior high science, memorizing multiplication (3rd?), looking up 7th grade math problems, is in her second year of grammar, behind in spelling, and reading on an 8th-9th grade level. <br />
AND, it constantly changes. It's not like you can sit on second grade reading and specialize in teaching that. Sometimes you will have to search for how to teach certain subjects, and sometimes you will even be learning right beside them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiCM_xLPi65z5OYGy4H-Lv5SC0JDpBkdilJOejVF0vFtocFVaAgBO5LXybyGG6kSJA_bdjyOMXAJaZqIeFXJ-Ozj80aJTR2yU-iCiEleGBID9WTaALDfB2rLh7SjUTtwPSaUcVWtLAYQc/s1600/IMG_6244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiCM_xLPi65z5OYGy4H-Lv5SC0JDpBkdilJOejVF0vFtocFVaAgBO5LXybyGG6kSJA_bdjyOMXAJaZqIeFXJ-Ozj80aJTR2yU-iCiEleGBID9WTaALDfB2rLh7SjUTtwPSaUcVWtLAYQc/s320/IMG_6244.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2BafamhQPfdaA3meBp0-GTkwRSeqJiUoe91aic2gpJf8BjB5mO8I0mPnMFFcCMkLVYs9Rx_-V28Amcj9YE2h4_WbPv6BEEL1ezHZQIJGbdZvxbBfP3qmkACwSVMkntGw9mm7I7-jVOFY/s1600/IMG_6015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2BafamhQPfdaA3meBp0-GTkwRSeqJiUoe91aic2gpJf8BjB5mO8I0mPnMFFcCMkLVYs9Rx_-V28Amcj9YE2h4_WbPv6BEEL1ezHZQIJGbdZvxbBfP3qmkACwSVMkntGw9mm7I7-jVOFY/s320/IMG_6015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
It's Expensive!<br />
I know there are books out there about home-schooling your children for free or close to free, but that hasn't been reality in our experience. If you get all of your books from the library, you'll quickly find that it's hard to get them when you need them, since all the other home-school families are looking for them at the same time of year. Then, when you do get them, your child takes longer reading them than you estimated, but the library book is on hold and you can't renew it.<br />
Or, printing off free worksheets from the internet seems like such a frugal way to go, until you actually try it and figure out it would take half your school day in preparation.<br />
We buy (or in some cases borrow) everything we need.<br />
Curriculum and small supplies (like pencils and notebooks) cost us about $500-900 per year. That's all of our start up stuff for the year. Then there's more workbooks through the year as they finish the first ones. That runs about $50-150 every quarter, depending on how much they get through. This amount is based on new workbooks, because I can't stand using old workbooks where the child can see someone else's old answers, used books and guides, and only the supplies they really need to do well that year (with a few new bright notebooks to enjoy the year with, since I keep their old full ones for records). <br />
There are some big, one time purchases that we've made that have made home-schooling life a whole lot better/easier, as well. Among them are a huge white board, a printer/copier combo, an additional computer for the kids, and bookshelves to hold our library. Also, consider that when you look into moving, home-schooling does require extra space. You'll need room to store books, workbooks, records, educational toys and games, and so forth. And, unless you're willing to walk them to a park or other play area nearly every day, you'll need a larger yard than the average family. <br />
In all of this, it seems like it's just not that bad, until you realize that you'll be doing it all on one income. Choosing to be a home-school mom is also choosing to stay at home for the long haul. The likelihood, is that if you choose this life-style, you won't get the nice house with the back yard for ten years after your peers are, you'll be driving used cars longer, living with a smaller wardrobe, fixing stuff yourself, and your presents, parties, and gatherings will be far more humble.<br />
(And just a little bite on the bootie is that you'll be making less, spending more, and you'll be doing it while sending a big chunk of your taxes to paying for public education...of which you get no benefit. This happens to private schooled families, too.)<br />
We don't personally outsource any of their education right now, but that's also something to consider. If you're clueless when it comes to Chemistry, for example, you may have to spend some good chunks of cash on private classes or tutoring.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2zYEXFpMvWnDjSmzp0JY-evL3FrlTRM2u4N2VYA0AHUG6Fk4BYQsYJmMfXsxjeQKoFCIZPxY7FPeS5KdKrGQGmQiHxBmMkYM8SS4undMIIr0E_EyL7pXdwy68L0kb9pI-JaVjfc7baM/s1600/IMG_6088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2zYEXFpMvWnDjSmzp0JY-evL3FrlTRM2u4N2VYA0AHUG6Fk4BYQsYJmMfXsxjeQKoFCIZPxY7FPeS5KdKrGQGmQiHxBmMkYM8SS4undMIIr0E_EyL7pXdwy68L0kb9pI-JaVjfc7baM/s320/IMG_6088.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shh...nearly all of them came from the thrift store!</div>
<br />
<br />
I Rarely Clock Out:<br />
By the time school is done for the day, it's time to start dinner. By the time dinner's finished, it's time to clean up. Even while I'm sitting down for a break, the kids still break out into squabbles, want to sit right up against me after being attached to my hip all day long, can't reach something, or are asking me the ten millionth question of the day. Most moms of toddlers know what this is like for a few years, but then most parents send their children off to school or go back to work.<br />
When you home-school, it is rare that you are ever without your kids. I have about 2 hours at church a week, where the kids are all in Sunday school class and only about 45 minutes of that is interacting with other adults. Once a month, I attend a Ladies Night Out for about 3 hours. That's it folks. That's all of the kid-free time I get.<br />
I love being with my kids, but everyone needs time away. I still haven't figured this one out.<br />
<br />
Bad Day...No Sweet Mama:<br />
I've learned a lot of self-control over the years, but when there's never a time to de-compress while my children are out of sight, they see who I am at my worst. Sometimes it's Mom who needs a 'time out', and I have to find it in the bathroom or turn on the t.v. when we're supposed to be doing school, or sending them off to play and zoning out a bit. It happens. I hate it when it happens, but it does.<br />
<br />
<br />
Did I Mention Distractions?<br />
Oh, no. That was interruptions. There's a difference. <br />
Interruptions are usually external (phone or doorbell is someone outside calling in) or an event in your life that's outside the normal, such as potty training (only short-term, but still interrupts) or a spill (not daily).<br />
Distractions are everyday, common things that draw a child's eyes in that direction. It could be rain on the roof that they start chatting about when they're supposed to be finishing a handwriting assignment. It's the toddler that dances in the middle of the living room while we're reading our bible or loudly bangs legos together while a math drill is going on. It's the tree that is blown by the wind right outside the nearest window or the airplane that flies overhead. It's usually small stuff, but it happens all the time. It's constantly a battle of "Back to work", "Pay attention", "Back to your page", "You just have to shut those noises out of your mind, sweety".<br />
<br />
I hope in my effort to be open and honest, that this didn't come across as complain-y or whiny. I love teaching my kids and watching them grow and all the fluffy goodness of my home-schooling life! I just want to put forth that, just like everything else in life that's worth doing, there are costs. Even the biggest blessings in life, like having children in the first place, come with costs. But, they're barely noticeable in the scheme of things. When you look back over the years, it's never these bad bits that come to mind. It's the sunshine you experienced while doing multiplication and the light of understanding dawning in a child's eyes that you'll remember. <br />
<br />
Linking Up to these Amazing Blogs:<br />
<a href="http://cornerstoneconfessions.com/2013/09/t2t-linky-party-69.html" target="_blank">Titus2Tuesday</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-34295186998692035312013-09-11T20:07:00.001-05:002013-09-28T10:24:42.360-05:00Moving: Collection of Posts<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhninuvCpcdJG6g_ONzNtohzleXlfTgwOLuYGCIDGMYXvtKaKQ7wh4-VyuDWaYw06BRzNWBJxz2fvWG1bp7a_7QvSHOsPkriDbG1l-rjGthGyTUzg_GtdKv8pjb5-mXIAn56VjF0_7zyc0/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhninuvCpcdJG6g_ONzNtohzleXlfTgwOLuYGCIDGMYXvtKaKQ7wh4-VyuDWaYw06BRzNWBJxz2fvWG1bp7a_7QvSHOsPkriDbG1l-rjGthGyTUzg_GtdKv8pjb5-mXIAn56VjF0_7zyc0/s200/013.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9sey2OnuNvXBuO6fcN9X4dlp8phgTIcbAYjhw9u2yd4GR3kDehu-1WFIm57Kn05NC0EYETbLk2IJUMniXVZh6_8jpVvDSvWQVNvRMlFvDStaH5iS2kkiYGXVfuab7tA6v77WcQ2XSnlE/s1600/IMG_5909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9sey2OnuNvXBuO6fcN9X4dlp8phgTIcbAYjhw9u2yd4GR3kDehu-1WFIm57Kn05NC0EYETbLk2IJUMniXVZh6_8jpVvDSvWQVNvRMlFvDStaH5iS2kkiYGXVfuab7tA6v77WcQ2XSnlE/s320/IMG_5909.JPG" width="320" /></a>Left: Our Old House<br />
<br />
Right: Our New House that we moved into Summer 2013<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I've got to admit...I don't like moving one bit. Well, maybe I like getting into a new house, but the whole process just isn't fun to me. Nevertheless, I've moved several times and have developed ways to make each move a little easier on ourselves. These tips are the ones I go back to because they worked for me. Everyone moves a little differently, so take what works for you and forget the rest. <br />
<br />
<br />
Looking for more pictures/details? I've linked all of my moving posts below!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjucQ95H1msMWw5wvRvQCVMOVmtbItyrnVEUIedWGabfEV3exhpnKvoBKELAnGk87ebe48YorVF7ETjRljdUPh_-iqkC1-IAiq2fPn4ql-l0HsVbscTvY-TEyiDZQQxBLx3JK5ZalYG3gQ/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjucQ95H1msMWw5wvRvQCVMOVmtbItyrnVEUIedWGabfEV3exhpnKvoBKELAnGk87ebe48YorVF7ETjRljdUPh_-iqkC1-IAiq2fPn4ql-l0HsVbscTvY-TEyiDZQQxBLx3JK5ZalYG3gQ/s400/019.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Start packing in little spurts as soon as you know you'll be moving. I've found it's better to pack 1-3 boxes every day than to crash and burn a month before my departure date. The thing is, I always have more to do right before the move than I think, even if I have been preparing all along. And when that time comes where things just seem to come out of the walls, I sigh a sigh of relief that I'm not also packing the many, many boxes I'm finished with. </li>
<li>Set up a packing tub full of the things you'll need as you pack around the house. My tub gets messier as we move closer to moving time, but it's always in one place. Where's the scissors? In the packing tub. Where's that permanent marker? Check the packing tub. I just hate looking all over the house for things right when I'm ready to really start working, and the packing tub cuts down on this quite a bit. You only have to find where you set the packing tub last time you were packing, not the scissors, tape gun, trash bags, markers, etc.</li>
<li>Get nice sturdy, easily carried boxes and label them all the same way. We love Barnes and Noble boxes! They were the perfect size to carry heavier items and they weren't too cluttered with ads and words. Plus, they were free. And, I don't spend a lot of time <a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/quick-and-easy-box-labeling.html" target="_blank">labeling</a>. I use a simple black permanent marker, a notepad, and pen. No fancy notebook set-up for this gal. </li>
<li>Don't think you're stuck with only boxes. For example, "packing" blankets and stuffed animals away in big recycle bags places them out of daily use so they won't mess up the house while you're showing it, but still gives you access to padding for big breakables when they get packed later down the road. </li>
<li>De-clutter like you've never de-cluttered before. Always keep a donate bag and trash bag handy. Anything you get rid of doesn't have to be packed at all--and believe me, that's worth it. Moving is expensive and tiring no matter how much or little you have, but the less stuff the better! Every truck load to the trash means a truck load less on moving day. Every van load to the thrift store or donation center means that much less in the moving van. Little stuff takes up lots of space when it's all packed for a move. However, there are a few things I would hold off de-cluttering until after you move. </li>
<li>Lighten your workload and schedule as much as you can before starting to show your house.</li>
<li>While you're packing, ask yourself often, "If I can live without this in a box for 6 months, do I really need it?" Sure, there will be plenty of things you will want to keep that can be packed; keepsakes, the majority of your books, etc. But, be discerning. Don't pack stuff just because you can. Get rid of more than you think you can.</li>
<li>Be willing to let go of plans if they don't work or you feel God tugging you in a new direction.</li>
<li>Even when everything seems to be about moving, don't forget to leave it all behind you and go spend some time with your family doing something fun!</li>
<li>When un-packing, don't think you have to find the perfect spot the first time. Assign homes to things in a logical manner. As long as you can find them comfortably, you will be able to find and use everything you need and it will stay neater. You can take your time to find a permanent home for things as you settle in and get in a routine. There will be things you learn about your house (like that there's a really convenient trash can right above a great spot for the cutting board) that you won't think of right away. Allow yourself that discovery time before finding permanent homes for your things, but don't leave stuff in boxes. Boxes are the least convenient spot for anything to be usable. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
</ul>
Are you moving or thinking seriously about it? Here, you'll find links to my moving related posts. Plus, at the bottom of this page I've posted a link-up party where you can find all sorts of moving stories or advise. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/06/big-news-like-2500sq-ft-kind-of-news.html" target="_blank">BIG NEWS!!! Like 2500sqft. type of news!</a> (The house we ended up buying was 3000spft!!)<br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/07/choosing-builder-and-initial-goals.html" target="_blank">Choosing a Builder and Initial Goals</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/07/series-on-moving.html" target="_blank">Series On Moving</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/07/weekly-moving-schedule.html" target="_blank">A Weekly Moving Schedule</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/07/prepare-for-little-imbalance-while.html" target="_blank">Prepare For Imbalance</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/07/guilt-free-decluttering.html" target="_blank">Guilt Free Decluttering</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/gentle-decluttering-with-children.html" target="_blank">Gentle Decluttering with Children</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/07/gathering-moving-supplies.html" target="_blank">Moving Supplies</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/not-just-boxes.html" target="_blank">Not Just Boxes</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/packing-like-madwoman.html" target="_blank">Big Changes to Market Our House</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/12/chaos-to-calm-in-2-hours-whole-house.html" target="_blank">Chaos to Calm in 2 Hours: Whole House</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/03/life-showing-house.html" target="_blank">Life Showing Your House</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/03/poor-womans-way-to-pack-stem-ware.html" target="_blank">Poor woMan's Way to Pack Stem Ware</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/03/when-move-isnt-smooth.html" target="_blank">When the Move Isn't Smooth</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/quick-and-easy-box-labeling.html" target="_blank">Quick and Easy Box Labeling</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Moving Challenges:<br />
Challenge 1: <a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/moving-challenge-1.html" target="_blank">Reducing Your Laundry Load</a><br />
Challenge 2: <a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/moving-challenge-2.html" target="_blank">Small Kitchen Clutter</a><br />
Challenge 3: <a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/moving-challenge-3.html" target="_blank">One Tub O' Stuff</a><br />
Challenge 4: <a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/moving-challenge-4.html" target="_blank">Stuffed Toys, Pillows, and Bulky Blankets</a><br />
Challenge 5: <a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/moving-challenge-5.html" target="_blank">Attack Something Scary</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Our New Home Updates (First Plan):<br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/07/guess-what-this-is.html" target="_blank">Our Land!</a> --this plan didn't work out<br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/making-space-mondays-14-and-exciting.html" target="_blank">Pouring the Foundation</a> <br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/making-space-mondays-linky-party-14.html" target="_blank">Sidewalks, Driveway, and Bunking in the Living Room</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/12/a-touch-of-sad-news.html" target="_blank">Letting Go: A Touch of Sad News</a><br />
<br />
Where We Moved:<br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-countdown-is-here.html" target="_blank">The Countdown is HERE!</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-interim-house.html" target="_blank">Renting an Interim House</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/weve-moved-in.html" target="_blank">We're Moved In!</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/welcome-to-our-new-home.html" target="_blank">Welcome to our New Home!</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/new-shelves-in-kids-playroom.html" target="_blank">New Shelves in the Kid's Playroom</a><br />
<br />
Other:<br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/before-buying-and-old-house.html" target="_blank">Before Buying An Older House</a><br />
<a href="http://debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com/2013/05/staging-low-revenue-house.html" target="_blank">Staging a Low Revenue House</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<script type="text/javascript">
document.write('<script type="text/javascript" src=http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=170495&' + new Date().getTime() + '"><\/script>');
</script><br />
<!-- Quantcast Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
var _qevents = _qevents || [];
(function() {
var elem = document.createElement('script');
elem.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https://secure" : "http://edge") + ".quantserve.com/quant.js";
elem.async = true;
elem.type = "text/javascript";
var scpt = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
scpt.parentNode.insertBefore(elem, scpt);
})();
_qevents.push({
qacct:"p-qZe_dsTZ4xtjX"
});
</script>
<noscript>
<div style="display:none;">
<img src="//pixel.quantserve.com/pixel/p-qZe_dsTZ4xtjX.gif" border="0" height="1" width="1" alt="Quantcast"/>
</div>
</noscript>
<!-- End Quantcast tag -->
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-46104345079921916362013-09-06T15:54:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:23:19.660-05:00When and Where Do We Home-School?When I think of others home-schooling, I imagine them setting around the table at a set time (say 8 in the morning), doing an hour for each subject, taking a set lunch break, and being done at a set time. But...that's not how I do it...and I would suspect it's not how a lot of others do school either. It really depends on the family. <br />
<br />
This is what a "typical" day looks like for us, even though "typical" is used loosely.<br />
<br />
We start our mornings very casual. <br />
I get up and fix myself and Bubzy something quick to eat--maybe a Bagel with cream cheese, and get him changed. I don't need to wake up the other children. Abram's usually up before me watching cartoons or playing with transformers. I have to ask if he's eaten yet, because he always puts eating last and sometimes chimes in that he's hungry right when we're about to start school. He hasn't. He fixes himself some cereal and turns Barney on for Bubzy. A few minutes later Abby wakes up and drags herself to the kitchen. She's just like her Mama and likes peace and quiet in the mornings. She also fixes herself some cereal. <br />
<br />
I sit down with a cup of coffee and get on the computer. Abby gets dressed and ready for the day and makes her bed. Then she may make herself some hot Chai Tea. Abram has totally forgotten that he has to get dressed and ready for the day, so I ask him if he's started on his chore list. "Not yet," is his daily answer as he hops up to also get dressed and ready (teeth brushed/hair combed/etc). Barney's still playing and Bubzy's drinking his juice and watching with interest. The kids all get comfy on the couch and wait for me to close the computer. Barney's almost over and my cup of coffee's almost empty, so I finish my paragraph (reading or writing--depending on my mood that day) and close the computer. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZwzjRZUv6mRGk0x3GmFkaq3PZf3M_UQ76lxDktIx34tl2gid7S6QqOS8IPV-C-FHrHk6cTs5RvN0L7eLwmRNMiO09CON5TBKsUUA-bA90BRadWH0ZepEBDnFBOmz4FvbIe3PMyqTcFW4/s1600/IMG_6209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZwzjRZUv6mRGk0x3GmFkaq3PZf3M_UQ76lxDktIx34tl2gid7S6QqOS8IPV-C-FHrHk6cTs5RvN0L7eLwmRNMiO09CON5TBKsUUA-bA90BRadWH0ZepEBDnFBOmz4FvbIe3PMyqTcFW4/s320/IMG_6209.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
My bible's sitting right next to my morning spot and I open it to the Proverb for the day. We usually have to skip a few as we aren't consistent on weekends. That's okay, we'll eventually circle back around to it, anyway. Morning bible time includes a prayer, a proverb, a parable and a person. The proverb and parable are read out of my bible, the person out of a storybook bible, and then we pray together. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2XeOkb__Nh_vGXI1ARiwJT9x0kpnky5-N9ayHJXq-e7sCTnhy4lz1THspQjYnhWmNKCqm8FTfBUpccR61OKDvuJPE-Hil6rgqassDVnkzB98VmylO033UteV22C_poHe1mQRVccba7hE/s1600/IMG_6213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2XeOkb__Nh_vGXI1ARiwJT9x0kpnky5-N9ayHJXq-e7sCTnhy4lz1THspQjYnhWmNKCqm8FTfBUpccR61OKDvuJPE-Hil6rgqassDVnkzB98VmylO033UteV22C_poHe1mQRVccba7hE/s320/IMG_6213.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Often times, studies take on a life of their own, taking up extra time. I don't mind if I see that it's productive. Bubzy begins looking through the pictures and pointing to things of interest. The older two tell him who they are and what's happening, giving unscheduled review. If I was strict on a time schedule, these times would be thrown out for the sake of the clock. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now it's time to get busy on our chore lists. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYW2QZ53-xTsG4lWK3IMdoPVamQ2Zj68slhMRO25VUDmhf2Gfi-mwgmD7_3T-wVFwTGPqFBDxp-Uu1PStIjyYGK-i_hIcU2f7-qsXg98SvsSZP7VddT5yava-sswtTnylPP0vm5xMoRQY/s1600/IMG_6217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYW2QZ53-xTsG4lWK3IMdoPVamQ2Zj68slhMRO25VUDmhf2Gfi-mwgmD7_3T-wVFwTGPqFBDxp-Uu1PStIjyYGK-i_hIcU2f7-qsXg98SvsSZP7VddT5yava-sswtTnylPP0vm5xMoRQY/s320/IMG_6217.JPG" width="320" /></a>Abby knows her chores by heart, so she starts right in on unloading the dishwasher. I read Abram the first couple he needs to work on while I'm getting dressed and ready for the day. He needs to clear the table(s) and wipe it (<em>them</em> if we ate dinner in the dining room) down. He needs to pick up the stuff that ends up under the tables through the day and then he deals with all the kitchen trash. Wrappers from Romen noodles, paper plates that were left on the counter the day before, and little straws that fell on the floor are all up to Abram to pick up. Then he empties any kitchen trash bins that are full and puts them in the big trash bin in the garage. Abby fills the dishwasher with all the dishes that aren't hand-wash only. Those are up to me. While she's working on that, I'm cleaning off all the kitchen counters, putting away pantry items that were left out and looking forward to dinner to see if anything needs to be thawed. Abby sweeps to finish off the kitchen and breakfast areas.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyLiRPlmykMmkafOehcPpGaInJe8to_wEN_BUmI0zQ4X6uP_7v9D574OwPHdvJ1CPz8peRrQzRc35mfVsdDkGKuvqYiLKxW0BR4kv4xHqiCfmnOsdb8R8cBvnCriLU0f4ii-q74P-Kyo/s1600/IMG_6234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyLiRPlmykMmkafOehcPpGaInJe8to_wEN_BUmI0zQ4X6uP_7v9D574OwPHdvJ1CPz8peRrQzRc35mfVsdDkGKuvqYiLKxW0BR4kv4xHqiCfmnOsdb8R8cBvnCriLU0f4ii-q74P-Kyo/s320/IMG_6234.JPG" width="320" /></a>Once we're finished with kitchen duties, we move on to tidying the house. We just worry about the main areas like the living and dining rooms, entryway and main bathroom, and school library. This usually only takes about 15-20 minutes, but tends to take longer on Mondays or after a holiday. On those days I'm not as particular about stuff like the edges of the couch or looking behind side tables. We just do the main messes and finish up the following day. We all know what we're in charge of as we move around the house. I fold and put away blankets (they get taken down to make tents or wrap up in nearly every day), clean off the side tables, and put away stray school stuff. Abby picks up Bubzy's toys with his help, takes a trash bag around to every room to pick up stray paper plates and stuff, and picks up her own belongings. She also takes all the toys that end up at the bottom of the stairs up to the play room. Abram straightens the pillows on each couch with pride. He's very particular with the way they look. He also gathers any stray dirty clothes or towels and starts the washing machine. He takes care of his own belongings and helps Bubzy gather shoes from around the house and put them back in the shoe basket. We then spend 15 minutes timed on our bedrooms just to keep them from overflowing with mess. <br />
<br />
Now we're ready for school, but it's almost time for lunch. We may get an hour of school done and then fix lunch before we really start the main part of our school day or we might fix lunch and eat it while we work and then take an outside break.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Czb9onWz2YlLznnfjQvRKm871erLfXqUKQR6lJr-ajMW1lzmMpQnLKlMor_kpSk_ercOvYUeOhrai6IVm9_EoziKa0hQ9kafIvlnqKWSdPqyNgiwqeeygafTKIpxH6Bct47V1XL4blI/s1600/IMG_6256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Czb9onWz2YlLznnfjQvRKm871erLfXqUKQR6lJr-ajMW1lzmMpQnLKlMor_kpSk_ercOvYUeOhrai6IVm9_EoziKa0hQ9kafIvlnqKWSdPqyNgiwqeeygafTKIpxH6Bct47V1XL4blI/s320/IMG_6256.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
First, I spend a little time with Abby and Abram individually. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdGpCUTPXBQqRPjnsOW9OG7fkU7cC6FJeYh10M7z8tIJkfm2GPMAsQZTWzsDrbDJ3PW-TyqWAhGCq4_qlJvl59Q7dVLVLHL4hWOUfBTsWVVDkzKrmzlpwn4Vtn67tKIe_Mwjags4TLxuc/s1600/IMG_6242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdGpCUTPXBQqRPjnsOW9OG7fkU7cC6FJeYh10M7z8tIJkfm2GPMAsQZTWzsDrbDJ3PW-TyqWAhGCq4_qlJvl59Q7dVLVLHL4hWOUfBTsWVVDkzKrmzlpwn4Vtn67tKIe_Mwjags4TLxuc/s320/IMG_6242.JPG" width="320" /></a>Abby gets her time first since she usually doesn't need a lot of time. We focus on memorizing multiplication and division facts and spend some much needed time on spelling. She brings me one of her workbooks to check and asks any needed questions. When she's working by herself she marks or skips anything she'll need help on and brings me it when it's her time the next day. She records her school progress in a home-school record keeping book that I check up on a couple of times per week. Usually she needs about an hour of one-on-one time per day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFjIkVDrsdG9ut-oehJ3bDqsrSP6UH6jysZlmII7Pdxu1PO02buZSfXCTQfAQytPCLtDwszkixsr2EjuGtG5kUN-cuExWIXANP3ZxB7rmsXbcKUGsdoe4slvWiGhBaT3y6WhDy_5P4n8/s1600/IMG_6255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFjIkVDrsdG9ut-oehJ3bDqsrSP6UH6jysZlmII7Pdxu1PO02buZSfXCTQfAQytPCLtDwszkixsr2EjuGtG5kUN-cuExWIXANP3ZxB7rmsXbcKUGsdoe4slvWiGhBaT3y6WhDy_5P4n8/s320/IMG_6255.JPG" width="320" /></a>Bubzy's favorite time of day is in front of the white board with Abby. Abby takes a little time out to teach Bubzy a letter. He thinks he's big stuff when he scribbles on the board with her. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MOUUFvRVVNPJDkGxliTPMkCzv3QlPSibjjVUoTD31WFzIOre2f_6nUtzew9cF0tpRH8woU2acY0bMqdNVQoyhxkjAUcuhPLt0gHyb80Tv5LUTtd5Rb0koHu6LHipnSglkW5C-QiiCnI/s1600/IMG_6240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MOUUFvRVVNPJDkGxliTPMkCzv3QlPSibjjVUoTD31WFzIOre2f_6nUtzew9cF0tpRH8woU2acY0bMqdNVQoyhxkjAUcuhPLt0gHyb80Tv5LUTtd5Rb0koHu6LHipnSglkW5C-QiiCnI/s320/IMG_6240.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Abram has his alone learning time. He has a group of choices to do during this time and today he chooses to color his Roman history coloring book and listen to Story of the World on cd while eating a little lunch. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhqwqOLpilubpLU2nwKbv_KHZrjMyp7xT4Kw5SWKA2VhKRX-yRgEQjbliFDiDvLTTceDI-2D2Ta_AeTMpIgkndyAGk_nr2QmOq_ZGzjF1y4ASschjW6RrKITXmaw__rXRQJ2lVXn69qM/s1600/IMG_6263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhqwqOLpilubpLU2nwKbv_KHZrjMyp7xT4Kw5SWKA2VhKRX-yRgEQjbliFDiDvLTTceDI-2D2Ta_AeTMpIgkndyAGk_nr2QmOq_ZGzjF1y4ASschjW6RrKITXmaw__rXRQJ2lVXn69qM/s320/IMG_6263.JPG" width="320" /></a>Most days he also practices a book he's confident reading while he's off to himself learning. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
All of our children end up outside a lot in nice weather. Even if it's hot, they attempt it for a while before coming back inside. It's their favorite place to learn.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWXA5rk-_me9Cl4e7q72MgGw7hxqHRxJtPyE5rNdHB1fC685Gvcmp5VBW4BfhxqCnY-4kJKDAQQf6brPfEsSFjWEhX9mDDOWktInkXrzUC6YeoYpEFoeVuZ4AnBWknYa9IjIegO5VFis/s1600/IMG_6262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWXA5rk-_me9Cl4e7q72MgGw7hxqHRxJtPyE5rNdHB1fC685Gvcmp5VBW4BfhxqCnY-4kJKDAQQf6brPfEsSFjWEhX9mDDOWktInkXrzUC6YeoYpEFoeVuZ4AnBWknYa9IjIegO5VFis/s320/IMG_6262.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After Abby is finished with her individual time with me, the rest of the school day for her is primarily off on her own. She can be found in the tree house reading, on the couch reading when it gets hot, on the computer doing one of her math programs, or just about anywhere. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhgPZ2dwBmmQ-bSoQyuC6LfXagSuIml1WCk8Qh2zGruapAlc_IMBBU1xl5rUuuvoi8ZC8947dC94o_p6hPaL3tY-eJe7yyI1XDjVIyiQjnN5kpkqLYRAFA4sAXS_nFVXy57Ozd_6Nv2zE/s1600/IMG_6272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhgPZ2dwBmmQ-bSoQyuC6LfXagSuIml1WCk8Qh2zGruapAlc_IMBBU1xl5rUuuvoi8ZC8947dC94o_p6hPaL3tY-eJe7yyI1XDjVIyiQjnN5kpkqLYRAFA4sAXS_nFVXy57Ozd_6Nv2zE/s320/IMG_6272.JPG" width="320" /></a>I check in on her occasionally, but she's pretty self-sufficient. She usually gets 3-4 hours of reading time in reading literature, history, science encyclopedias, and poetry. Then she works primarily in Fred Math and occasionally in Teaching Textbooks math on the computer. She also has language arts on the computer plus some workbooks she works on. She's officially finished with school at 4:00, but normally assigns herself "homework" just for fun (such as a map and color sheet for history) and reads a little before bed as well. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_TM3IfA3czo_qNpApES-cpYw1bgph3Yv-Hr_pTh19Mu2idKN5kUthHmr54LIAiu580plOJuOdlEk1SjtFtlvnuAjYVkvWkZOWeh2GGgjDl3PTnIxXcYHiuvjMCbOVFeRQGaoadKSByo/s1600/IMG_6274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_TM3IfA3czo_qNpApES-cpYw1bgph3Yv-Hr_pTh19Mu2idKN5kUthHmr54LIAiu580plOJuOdlEk1SjtFtlvnuAjYVkvWkZOWeh2GGgjDl3PTnIxXcYHiuvjMCbOVFeRQGaoadKSByo/s320/IMG_6274.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsut1I30XylEsFXJWXZd48ZLYsXALY2j7662a9GM9Llt4VfxK8WQSTr4zxhZdG5XCyrnCLh6yLvU5gPrr79_Hgg-cmAqqrdZ78qVMKuazgbCmGCIBsBWInFBswDqUJrzsd-CGeJ3iepAw/s1600/IMG_6298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsut1I30XylEsFXJWXZd48ZLYsXALY2j7662a9GM9Llt4VfxK8WQSTr4zxhZdG5XCyrnCLh6yLvU5gPrr79_Hgg-cmAqqrdZ78qVMKuazgbCmGCIBsBWInFBswDqUJrzsd-CGeJ3iepAw/s320/IMG_6298.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
While Abby begins working on her own, I work with Abram. We have one-on-one time working on flashcards in math, reading lessons, and workbook pages. Then we work on his computer curriculum for a while, some of which he needs my help on and some that I can just remain nearby just in case. I try and steal away a little time to read Bubzy a story or two and spend some one-on-one time with him as well. Some days it happens and some it doesn't. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyeRQ9G0CqAdy2DHUkkA1m8Im2Nu2ucM03EihnHceRgLyQFLmDMF10p1tsXntg0ZMSV5hyNBbaydurPehd2LJY5pHdN_M6LlgDuZ0x4cWaSjSx-VkRwWDoMRg-IGFifgIa5URYBKO3P7g/s1600/IMG_6289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyeRQ9G0CqAdy2DHUkkA1m8Im2Nu2ucM03EihnHceRgLyQFLmDMF10p1tsXntg0ZMSV5hyNBbaydurPehd2LJY5pHdN_M6LlgDuZ0x4cWaSjSx-VkRwWDoMRg-IGFifgIa5URYBKO3P7g/s320/IMG_6289.JPG" width="320" /></a>I remember Abby needing a whole lot of side by side time with me in third grade, too. I try and leave the school work that Abram can primarily do by himself for 4:00. I start cooking dinner around that time, but he's at the kitchen desk where I can stop and glance over his shoulder when he needs me. Usually Abram gets a little playtime in the playroom while I put Bubzy down for a nap, so his schoolwork lasts a little past Abby's. About 4:30 or 5:00 we're finished and all exhausted. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<br />
<br />
Linking Up to these Amazing Blog Parties:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://cornerstoneconfessions.com/2013/09/t2t-linky-party-69.html" target="_blank">Titus2Tuesday</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" title="It's Overflowing"><img alt="It's Overflowing" src="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Share-Your-Creativity-125.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
<br /><script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-36455484578298013872013-09-05T14:46:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:22:33.493-05:00Home-schooling: How I Teach My Children to ReadWarning: Very Long Post <br />
<br />
Gosh, how do I even begin to tell you how I do this? <br />
<br />
Teaching a child to read isn't just about teaching them their ABCs and getting to a point where they can read words without your help. It's so much more than that. It's guiding a child from <br />
<br />
<div align="center">
here (interest in books and letters)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZGTleGWKUlaCbUO8FodZBaJHbtjQSZO4454N8ZFdtqSu3JLTpn0l89iFs8zvkT9mrXbkvuZUXo7lJAQUIoUR3icE3DfssKb5JNVdOj2KNTW22LEgrqYZKaVmxnzmb6wQaCuBvXHHG3o/s1600/IMG_6156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZGTleGWKUlaCbUO8FodZBaJHbtjQSZO4454N8ZFdtqSu3JLTpn0l89iFs8zvkT9mrXbkvuZUXo7lJAQUIoUR3icE3DfssKb5JNVdOj2KNTW22LEgrqYZKaVmxnzmb6wQaCuBvXHHG3o/s320/IMG_6156.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to here (catching them reading beyond what's assigned),</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__9824GnaOE5KparHkPJx9X7xmOdgpIP8fvtAM2H8lanCgCH6UXYg_3LsWTQ9kEipeLcC2vsqAJstHPvni-H-igTqRBXIIiSu__pZIXuGhqcWR_IBl49fxjmeYMgkHukPDUYRX7wSowk/s1600/IMG_6018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__9824GnaOE5KparHkPJx9X7xmOdgpIP8fvtAM2H8lanCgCH6UXYg_3LsWTQ9kEipeLcC2vsqAJstHPvni-H-igTqRBXIIiSu__pZIXuGhqcWR_IBl49fxjmeYMgkHukPDUYRX7wSowk/s320/IMG_6018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
and beyond. It's being able to sound out a word, but it's also understanding books read to them that are above their personal reading level. There's two distinct but intermingled parts to reading: reading and comprehension. The goal (at least in our home) is for each child to be able to read aloud and then to themselves well, to be able to understand more and more difficult and deeper literature, and to learn to enjoy reading for the purpose of learning and personal entertainment. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In my experience, reading comprehension has been a natural part of learning. I just read aloud to them again and again and again and again..........and again. Then, as they got old enough, I began asking them to tell me about what they just read or heard. We chose a large variety of books in different subjects and taught them to listen to longer and longer stories and chapters. If they tuned out and couldn't tell me anything about the reading, they endured a repeat reading at times. Their ears learned to perk up after a few times of re-reading a story, chapter, or poem. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Teaching children to decipher words and put them together to read sentences is much more complex, but only takes a short (in the span of their entire education) time. Where comprehension grows and continues to grow into adulthood, learning to decipher words (learning to read) is a temporary subject. Once they know and know well how to read, they know for good. For this reason, reading is one of only two subjects (reading and math) that I actually <em>teach </em>until about third grade. Where they <em>learn</em> bible, science, history, art, etc, I only have to teach reading and math until then. Once they know how to read well, then I turn my teaching attention to other subjects previously skimmed over. </div>
<br />
<h3>
Personal Experience:</h3>
I guess the key two concepts for me in teaching our children to read were <em>patience</em> and <em>foundations</em>. <br />
<br />
Reading is a lot like learning to speak. It takes for.e.ver....and then WHAM...they get it and fly. Some children just seem to catch on and others need to know why c and k say the same thing, and want to know all the "rules". Those children hate the exceptions unless they can be explained. I'm glad I was a logical child or I would have lost my patience. <br />
<br />
It seems logical to plan ahead in reading (learn A in week 1, B in week 2...week 27 start learning 'at' words), but it just doesn't always work that way. Abby took an entire year to learn her alphabet and some of the sounds they make, then another year to learn just the cvc (consonant, vowel, consonant) words. I thought I would die! I had to clamp my lips shut, pray, and then calmly remind her what 'e' sounded like for the millionth time. When she was 8 (four years after I began the long journey of teaching her to read), all of a sudden she grew in leaps and bounds. In third grade, she went from cvc and cvcv words to small chapter books! Every few months, there was a leap in understanding, until mid-4th grade I was giving her full blown books, encyclopedias dedicated to history and science, and she began reading longer and longer teeny-bopper novels for fun. It wasn't just spouting off words, either. She was telling me all about the stories and what she had learned. Now, just beginning 5th grade, I'm confident giving her The Hobbit, Little Women, Arabian Knights, Island of The Blue Dolphins, and many others like them. She was my logical learner. She had to know why each letter "behaved" the way it did. Abby needed time, lots and lots of time, but once she learned, she was a confident reader.<br />
<br />
Abram, on the other hand was totally opposite. I tried to teach him like Abby and he wasn't interested. I let it go. He was only 4 and I could wait. Then, at 5 years old, without ever giving him a formal lesson, I decided it was time to start. I pulled out the ABC books, settling in for the long haul. He knew over half of them the first day!! What?!! Then, Abby casually mentioned that she had taught him. Wow! I just skipped her first half a year of lessons. Within a couple of months, he had learned the entire alphabet and knew a lot of the sounds they made. Where was I in the 'book'? I skipped ahead to the cvc words. He picked them up at profound speeds. (Abby had been "playing" school with him!) The books that took Abby a year to get through, took him a couple of months. About mid year in 2nd grade, though, he just stopped moving ahead. He never quit reading what he had learned, but he just didn't move beyond that point. He's now just beginning 3rd grade, and we're in the same place. But, now, eight years into home-schooling, I'm getting used to these variations in learning speeds within the same child. I've learned to have patience when things seem to be at a stand-still. I've learned to stay consistent in requiring reading practice even when it's the same thing again and again. And, I've learned to skip ahead when they're ready. Even though he was my "easy" one in reading, I had to be careful. Somewhere along the way I clued in that he was just really good at memorizing, but when something new would come up he didn't know how to decipher it. I began adding in the 'whys' in small doses as we read. When you see 'ou' together, it usually says "ow" as in ouch. How many vowels are in that syllable? What happens when there's two vowels? Right. The first one says it's name and the second is silent. Good. But where Abby needed word after word lessons in this, Abram just needed to be taught and reminded while in the middle of books. He was my "natural" reader. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Teaching Tools:</h3>
Here are the reading curriculums and supports that have been consistently loved and valued with me and my children and how I use(d) them:<br />
<br />
<h2>
Before Readers:</h2>
<br />
<div align="center">
A good, durable set of ABC flashcard.</div>
<div align="center">
These were individual mini books and we love them. While the older children are doing lessons, they're great to scoot around the floor, pick up and look at the pictures, stack and knock down...and then bring one of us a card and ask, "What's that?" That one's "I". It says "ih". And then he's back to playing. Abby had a really nice set of flashcards from Baby Einstein, and then we switched to these when Abram was little.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBuyk1RoGncKeii-nbLWGlep-dFn62uMatznlD0s33tZG_XowiiSrvgKD0fYbAWbztngc85WYUL5NZYk-dn3WMwoCfu01Hpu8rvmiSAy2Gcs9_6c13NxJkh-AXuUu1vkkP4w1VcNRu54/s1600/IMG_6157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBuyk1RoGncKeii-nbLWGlep-dFn62uMatznlD0s33tZG_XowiiSrvgKD0fYbAWbztngc85WYUL5NZYk-dn3WMwoCfu01Hpu8rvmiSAy2Gcs9_6c13NxJkh-AXuUu1vkkP4w1VcNRu54/s320/IMG_6157.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
This little stack (plus a really good set of children's literature) is all I use for reading until they're ready for readers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2VProRd23_74GQ8L8-2DjBWFON_uS1PfQQnsiI8V5oBoz3Ux3Wwwv6KYtPHruv5If5Y8RZtWUrnUszjf3AJCn_R2E8Tpjj7a2JdRWACHF7C6GE6CmMGZY1PgyPpMEu95ZGa0zHxp2kc/s1600/IMG_6159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2VProRd23_74GQ8L8-2DjBWFON_uS1PfQQnsiI8V5oBoz3Ux3Wwwv6KYtPHruv5If5Y8RZtWUrnUszjf3AJCn_R2E8Tpjj7a2JdRWACHF7C6GE6CmMGZY1PgyPpMEu95ZGa0zHxp2kc/s320/IMG_6159.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
This book was full of common sense reminders and suggestions. It has a lot of ideas about adding language learning to a child's everyday life. It includes poems, short stories, language games, activities, and teaching ideas. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlEz0tm3YyZXcgOSzBQZYFx5agCQIZpZ5HkvLUvEWrd2Sf7TbOCQ_yNIuYNEmZ1ZXIeEnoKSYRhZSrITOAWpe7PvDg3CvwrQVFcmQXLTgl7v-KTPAEO4yA3mE2bid-7vL7yj1lzn7VOw/s1600/IMG_6150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlEz0tm3YyZXcgOSzBQZYFx5agCQIZpZ5HkvLUvEWrd2Sf7TbOCQ_yNIuYNEmZ1ZXIeEnoKSYRhZSrITOAWpe7PvDg3CvwrQVFcmQXLTgl7v-KTPAEO4yA3mE2bid-7vL7yj1lzn7VOw/s320/IMG_6150.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
An Acorn In My Hand is a gem by Ethel Bouldin that really taught me how to teach reading. I didn't use it with my children until they were 4 or 5, but I've read it over again every time a child's on the brink of beginning to learn to read. It shows you the basics of how words are put together, what letters make what sounds, what combinations of letters make what sounds, and how to teach them. This and a good white board were all I used for formal lessons with Abby until she was ready for readers. Search for it and if you can find this old book, snatch it up!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoGJcI6plvhyeB9zoQdcKDPnX2qy-XxGLZ0Cq0tNasRNO04hKQBBTxrapn-2HPs5qI0ysXWJ3a_ZRQyQ_ux_Df7bkorN_2n4NBA4Z3YFloB9DCFDLvGwMM175Lvh5GaImhX6wEJ_Ydn4/s1600/IMG_6151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoGJcI6plvhyeB9zoQdcKDPnX2qy-XxGLZ0Cq0tNasRNO04hKQBBTxrapn-2HPs5qI0ysXWJ3a_ZRQyQ_ux_Df7bkorN_2n4NBA4Z3YFloB9DCFDLvGwMM175Lvh5GaImhX6wEJ_Ydn4/s320/IMG_6151.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A peek inside:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7slD1VYJTuRicLlqB0SA2saIDBTAN2GzEN_0md0wUVVhM7nazZme3J_F653l6k7WNzLEqPFbN2R2tVUunKnmEl4fRw9mM49b-NetyXGvhxl9Vl4yq89d9nDNI0bY4cFPU5bbocuAaSxE/s1600/IMG_6153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7slD1VYJTuRicLlqB0SA2saIDBTAN2GzEN_0md0wUVVhM7nazZme3J_F653l6k7WNzLEqPFbN2R2tVUunKnmEl4fRw9mM49b-NetyXGvhxl9Vl4yq89d9nDNI0bY4cFPU5bbocuAaSxE/s320/IMG_6153.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
This was a fun read that I've done with every one of my children on a daily basis when they first showed interest in letters. They loved hearing the sounds the letters made in cute little poetic verses. Soon, they were reciting the letters and sounds with me and pretending to read the book. I've gone through two of these books because it wears plum out. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMg6FTU4Dl_YmWvwW0Hs2d02MYl4g5pniEd9EEJ0DSzj6QFleNirerJgww6qSSJROMNC7cJFHEaE0MwU0kfN79Z4KLq9WAeoUHlIAHbbwJsqpUPtK-_Ls3ganmM8LiiXC-tSUmTui-GQ/s1600/IMG_6147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMg6FTU4Dl_YmWvwW0Hs2d02MYl4g5pniEd9EEJ0DSzj6QFleNirerJgww6qSSJROMNC7cJFHEaE0MwU0kfN79Z4KLq9WAeoUHlIAHbbwJsqpUPtK-_Ls3ganmM8LiiXC-tSUmTui-GQ/s320/IMG_6147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are another gem that I'm about to have to replace because we're missing quite a few. The children loved having letters they could handle off the page!!! They could literally put together and take apart words, rearrange sounds, and so forth. Our children start playing with these before they learn to read, but continue with them long after that. Later, the olders use these for spelling, too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz47Q83QCb1dIGaT1ZWhqFnXJ3CqvzOFcn3-hNSDqwWtI2VRQ90YjA83zh2aU-y2-ilCtBpdbJrZrelIdFzqJMafIgwJECBpqGBxLeDz2HqBOg48znobXqnK0r4xaKQb6OY1A1dFAuVI0/s1600/IMG_6149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz47Q83QCb1dIGaT1ZWhqFnXJ3CqvzOFcn3-hNSDqwWtI2VRQ90YjA83zh2aU-y2-ilCtBpdbJrZrelIdFzqJMafIgwJECBpqGBxLeDz2HqBOg48znobXqnK0r4xaKQb6OY1A1dFAuVI0/s320/IMG_6149.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2>
Beginning Formal Lessons and Early Readers:</h2>
<br />
(sorry, my pictures aren't rotating)<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
This is the all-inclusive teaching guide I use. It goes all the way from teaching the alphabet to the last formal lessons they'll need. It's very similar to An Acorn In My Hands in theory, but spreads it all out in individual lessons. When my children start the first lesson in this book, they aren't even confident in their ABCs and sounds. By the time we've made it through the book, they're reading full-length novels. It's really packed and thorough. </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I don't actually use this book every school day. I use it to find holes in their reading. We'll sit and do lesson after lesson until I hit a page they didn't know very well. Then I know what to point out when they're reading, what to work on with the white board, what to remind them of over and over again, etc. Then, when they've learned that concept, I move on in the book again. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3y69rAzLfoksnelauBNbqFQ-P-2B4hg6Ut6pyqsEi_JyYcwzobmxi7jfYZ4c2PQKJPlaC-rNe2vBUZAdYhFSOKuyCINkmQPXxK7A35fXN_l-emXx3Bi0IlkDsSHXr9_jFOpsKl3BboCw/s1600/IMG_6166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3y69rAzLfoksnelauBNbqFQ-P-2B4hg6Ut6pyqsEi_JyYcwzobmxi7jfYZ4c2PQKJPlaC-rNe2vBUZAdYhFSOKuyCINkmQPXxK7A35fXN_l-emXx3Bi0IlkDsSHXr9_jFOpsKl3BboCw/s320/IMG_6166.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
A peek inside:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYIEUFmuUyqPrV9gCwobG5u5ug3J_8UdzCnxKTOTxd5-y2sOx4CH9ezQdu9stsvGFG6uhsMFSmPwGf14Gxz-7MdgfwAHtadvLkOx3dj4d8lG6P1SCiOxBjhkqpKW5I-ADXEXghTjgVL8M/s1600/IMG_6168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYIEUFmuUyqPrV9gCwobG5u5ug3J_8UdzCnxKTOTxd5-y2sOx4CH9ezQdu9stsvGFG6uhsMFSmPwGf14Gxz-7MdgfwAHtadvLkOx3dj4d8lG6P1SCiOxBjhkqpKW5I-ADXEXghTjgVL8M/s320/IMG_6168.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-NXP3pFgvgB3nwKHXYo14ZI2mHHf08ykaRKzPWaU65VOowRE-pqjg1rMZzFZQ8mmWCXkDdSM0QfMM7ojRqWjVbKvywlaQHIdIxGfVJxE7EjUQHAD1uq5VP4sWncc_s8z13g6ejGTvWo/s1600/IMG_6170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-NXP3pFgvgB3nwKHXYo14ZI2mHHf08ykaRKzPWaU65VOowRE-pqjg1rMZzFZQ8mmWCXkDdSM0QfMM7ojRqWjVbKvywlaQHIdIxGfVJxE7EjUQHAD1uq5VP4sWncc_s8z13g6ejGTvWo/s320/IMG_6170.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
There's actually four books in this set, but one of them is probably in my son's bedroom or underneath the couch. These follow the same general phonetic steps as how I teach reading, so I use them on a consistent basis. These are daily practice, where the books below are read it through until you know it and move on. We work on these at the same time as the one's below.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHAFe_6TMB-qEmZ2_QaLKJTicFb2RAxGx24bKFTJtC3ZLa59P5W1WL1CJEKhErm5hr_6Z8MMAgGswgooqpLZ1TnU2QAfM6qvKgEFmFeTe2K0pMrT6v2KDVq0BvtNMRduHAtjFI-Pprws/s1600/IMG_6173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHAFe_6TMB-qEmZ2_QaLKJTicFb2RAxGx24bKFTJtC3ZLa59P5W1WL1CJEKhErm5hr_6Z8MMAgGswgooqpLZ1TnU2QAfM6qvKgEFmFeTe2K0pMrT6v2KDVq0BvtNMRduHAtjFI-Pprws/s320/IMG_6173.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
We love these! Dr. Suess and P.D. Eastman aren't the greatest in Children's lit, but they're enjoyable and memorable. They also use common words over and over again, adding to the child's fluency in reading. These are the first to disappear for plain ol' enjoyment reading.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UJIARQLFveWi0b6yYcXl-GWehGRUH5Aew90Ctqaduu-l7JwSPKpDqufbjaDZmVmXQchUSnvA2uGZbDbvAVpzZoPMTAGsddb3hdHgXT2rP0f9xB0Ogl8rlAo_MJVw3RXZG-eRsES_75w/s1600/IMG_6174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UJIARQLFveWi0b6yYcXl-GWehGRUH5Aew90Ctqaduu-l7JwSPKpDqufbjaDZmVmXQchUSnvA2uGZbDbvAVpzZoPMTAGsddb3hdHgXT2rP0f9xB0Ogl8rlAo_MJVw3RXZG-eRsES_75w/s320/IMG_6174.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These are the ONLY workbooks I use for Reading. They're easy to understand, you probably won't need the teacher's guides, and the kids' love them. Get Ready, Get Set, and Go For The Code work all the way through the alphabet and practice a little early handwriting, too. Explode the Code 1-8 work their way from early cvc words through as far as you'll want to go before skipping on to higher level workbooks. They're just fun and good practice. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9TJUqp51o9b4Wtp5g71SFr7KiY8sHK8RYmwPPT8fbrahgY_hbfAgMttz31SeDTgud6ggiifjUka5SyRtsnuEe4CQULctM_36q8zop9BPEYj69dgh3At6zfRX3v_0C_ygi05i64AhS83Q/s1600/IMG_6160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9TJUqp51o9b4Wtp5g71SFr7KiY8sHK8RYmwPPT8fbrahgY_hbfAgMttz31SeDTgud6ggiifjUka5SyRtsnuEe4CQULctM_36q8zop9BPEYj69dgh3At6zfRX3v_0C_ygi05i64AhS83Q/s320/IMG_6160.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Our Early Readers are selected with care. I let them pick a few readers just for fun, like Disney Princess or Transformers, but I want most of their readers to be an early introduction to the variations they'll get into later. Their books include stories, poetry, "chapter" books, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2pz2zBclvxoFlKgCEm0VaG_ou7fg98FipgdZ1s-0nwCiq9CI87tdE7pSqsWIlXRky2uznGJW3wqtQAfSMfLT9xTM9sWRgxLr8GCv9lOanqfGnM9dog0LEzkp67nQslKgLIVQ-g1pgGog/s1600/IMG_6177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2pz2zBclvxoFlKgCEm0VaG_ou7fg98FipgdZ1s-0nwCiq9CI87tdE7pSqsWIlXRky2uznGJW3wqtQAfSMfLT9xTM9sWRgxLr8GCv9lOanqfGnM9dog0LEzkp67nQslKgLIVQ-g1pgGog/s320/IMG_6177.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
history,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxOizBEq5lut3-TvNOH-K9Vxr2_3_iZPLYTplhlw9X0aO5-vgF17VHAvdpJRgDUp_BoyycEb-NUbnPOFbFFX-d4canz1bX7Ghvr9iOwY892VBe8eQUzpxzajKMmi73bSCKOlZHkOHjfaI/s1600/IMG_6175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxOizBEq5lut3-TvNOH-K9Vxr2_3_iZPLYTplhlw9X0aO5-vgF17VHAvdpJRgDUp_BoyycEb-NUbnPOFbFFX-d4canz1bX7Ghvr9iOwY892VBe8eQUzpxzajKMmi73bSCKOlZHkOHjfaI/s320/IMG_6175.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Science, early biographies,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5Es_ZFDA4P1ED3IB69JYrOw-SPOnGp4wF0kPyq-nnrsy2s0WdcjZePjcRyn0OIRVnOpNmJYn9lc2L_KtiClf3HSdRbipScfY5yl-wMVjzhRa_3JVAzMa1QbeRz1B8yN-MBIWgTN9JpA/s1600/IMG_6179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5Es_ZFDA4P1ED3IB69JYrOw-SPOnGp4wF0kPyq-nnrsy2s0WdcjZePjcRyn0OIRVnOpNmJYn9lc2L_KtiClf3HSdRbipScfY5yl-wMVjzhRa_3JVAzMa1QbeRz1B8yN-MBIWgTN9JpA/s320/IMG_6179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
and various cultures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRpAll9jeEb_tGeTx1NoxRuoISdYLRiL2C7q4-2U-UXu_t9mFm7Uj31zUUJQMzVFaJmxobrogKm9m3JwHKyPxd39lgR3KNDGPRNGqrPlSas4yrg2wqmMIzL4S8bM3m1eGx2Lz0CBA8vY/s1600/IMG_6176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRpAll9jeEb_tGeTx1NoxRuoISdYLRiL2C7q4-2U-UXu_t9mFm7Uj31zUUJQMzVFaJmxobrogKm9m3JwHKyPxd39lgR3KNDGPRNGqrPlSas4yrg2wqmMIzL4S8bM3m1eGx2Lz0CBA8vY/s320/IMG_6176.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
About half of their Science, History, and other subjects are learned from real books we read aloud to them, and the other half is learned from reading books like these.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<h2 align="left">
Early Chapter Books and Beginner Novels:</h2>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="center">
When I say "early chapter books", some may not know what exactly I mean.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I mean books about this size,</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmdut8NCgbcHSRcStYnhF0WYXIsyCF78Okuf6e_ka7NWs6k9xTznG0RwHco8relXeYznjSd3h6gyGC_76lBHwMs1ii8PWfQ8yZmgAZDyAtG8tHBA32uTwzPfyKm5MlBuHLfVDWu-lUG0/s1600/IMG_6182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmdut8NCgbcHSRcStYnhF0WYXIsyCF78Okuf6e_ka7NWs6k9xTznG0RwHco8relXeYznjSd3h6gyGC_76lBHwMs1ii8PWfQ8yZmgAZDyAtG8tHBA32uTwzPfyKm5MlBuHLfVDWu-lUG0/s320/IMG_6182.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
with more words on a page then they're used to, but they still have lots of pictures. They are divided into mini-chapters lasting about 4-10 pages. The idea is to build endurance in reading more than to give them harder words. At this point, the formal lessons continue for word-building, and these start being their primary source of fluency practice.</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSCeLx9L3Bw8Wyo_NrufD4rc0RUxIj36fG94pylZv5ZDLlnKuaXqq8m1lDdxsbIoamxdtwR261OKGWfCq9ygLCg-cHk4PQW4q0H7SO2BWjExhfNwJnbrpQ22kPgc0QLQPNCl6wbfHyOY/s1600/IMG_6185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSCeLx9L3Bw8Wyo_NrufD4rc0RUxIj36fG94pylZv5ZDLlnKuaXqq8m1lDdxsbIoamxdtwR261OKGWfCq9ygLCg-cHk4PQW4q0H7SO2BWjExhfNwJnbrpQ22kPgc0QLQPNCl6wbfHyOY/s320/IMG_6185.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I highly recommend the Magic Tree House books! If you'll notice in the picture below, #34 is quite a bit thicker than book #1. This series is great about gradually increasing reading endurance, with great adventures through history grabbing boys and girls attention. They're fabulous!</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIMjMUv4pO3eSSsBa9gbEfZhSBtx1RGpjr1mf2np4nRShZAHZegp6wYMRrJZa7QOaOkkjG9DOsT7m7R9-EVLXZC6h-jt3KQTj3pJqm1eFGfWsTW2cbI9lh7IppAVSWpHUJqsJphtw8CU/s1600/IMG_6187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIMjMUv4pO3eSSsBa9gbEfZhSBtx1RGpjr1mf2np4nRShZAHZegp6wYMRrJZa7QOaOkkjG9DOsT7m7R9-EVLXZC6h-jt3KQTj3pJqm1eFGfWsTW2cbI9lh7IppAVSWpHUJqsJphtw8CU/s320/IMG_6187.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gradually, their endurance increases.</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPOiCqTSF5SFtka-Idd_Q6D5YOIZ5quI_Y2S7KoJcHTWRcGYjcU24Sn_3wMFXibinCTYsOQPtmYrdeIaEPSidWFEkGNU9Hl0y4b_q7eo_CWty1c4TkAEfqwqlfnXfc63oC0dKVswDspk/s1600/IMG_6190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPOiCqTSF5SFtka-Idd_Q6D5YOIZ5quI_Y2S7KoJcHTWRcGYjcU24Sn_3wMFXibinCTYsOQPtmYrdeIaEPSidWFEkGNU9Hl0y4b_q7eo_CWty1c4TkAEfqwqlfnXfc63oC0dKVswDspk/s320/IMG_6190.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz27ApXkKe8EZzYbCtwDRPuYXBJBdZ8PseLIyu2xirCX9WCuY7gDoDe_y9VwDOgsJGVNTdwlsm36y089mCPTkDQVcJ9OQTzyAT_RLx604d1arhvd-GW056cyUEiecnAcl0C9VQGiTAkiM/s1600/IMG_6189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz27ApXkKe8EZzYbCtwDRPuYXBJBdZ8PseLIyu2xirCX9WCuY7gDoDe_y9VwDOgsJGVNTdwlsm36y089mCPTkDQVcJ9OQTzyAT_RLx604d1arhvd-GW056cyUEiecnAcl0C9VQGiTAkiM/s320/IMG_6189.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At this point, I start handing over more and more bits of their everyday learning to them. All those gorgeous Usborn Encyclopedia's in history and science subjects are now part of their responsibility. The history book they're used to listening to, they're now reading to themselves. I gradually start challenging them to a couple of real novels (no longer dumbed down for children). I no longer have them reading out loud to me, but they still have to tell me about the book. I still believe reading aloud is important, but now it's to a littler sibling. I casually listen in to see how they're doing and to catch any words/sounds that may need reviewing. </div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0-W9u7TP9yVj_lWjaPoaUB9uo_FRyGt81clNhFokzA8R49MoP3tRw2GEhteOHWwNGya6AZ09cGPE757NLe-xWj87_nYw7NtkKjnuQcbsg59vo2sutUZClVEh717fvmQ7NtEzO_nnu3o/s1600/IMG_6192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0-W9u7TP9yVj_lWjaPoaUB9uo_FRyGt81clNhFokzA8R49MoP3tRw2GEhteOHWwNGya6AZ09cGPE757NLe-xWj87_nYw7NtkKjnuQcbsg59vo2sutUZClVEh717fvmQ7NtEzO_nnu3o/s320/IMG_6192.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFVkmTIz62E1h6LqpmctgFIgH_up4muTMqSTRqgmiSwPpwRfCyJ12uzb07hP1zeCjjWT1ibWUe3ZL1E-leQNDFxK6tjgI6iuDgFg4gd3pX5L04Q2krIKyMeioetdaYIdj095HCZaQmBg/s1600/IMG_6193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFVkmTIz62E1h6LqpmctgFIgH_up4muTMqSTRqgmiSwPpwRfCyJ12uzb07hP1zeCjjWT1ibWUe3ZL1E-leQNDFxK6tjgI6iuDgFg4gd3pX5L04Q2krIKyMeioetdaYIdj095HCZaQmBg/s320/IMG_6193.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3 align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then, the day comes when you see huge changes. </h3>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're ready for the books you read!!</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're reading the bible instead of turning their lights out!!</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're up in the tree house with a backpack full of all sorts of books!!</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're sneaking off with your favorite cookbook to see if they have everything for Chocolate Chip Cookies!!</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're learning history stories you were never taught or remember!!</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're eating anatomy books for breakfast!!</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're half way through a guitar how to book they found in an old box!!</div>
<div align="center" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're bedroom floor is littered with novels!!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNyw-MXaimgfY2K_QJnGCl0FebzxGOxPGJgha7L4pqXJueXgXKkmQj9yOQQjDHpoM35fZBmLiUKXFdJRoFwCPTwKe6Ql33kd7YY9_8u1gULhNQL3yG4lL-GBAih8SGoHJWNgy74f7Xyg/s1600/IMG_6195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNyw-MXaimgfY2K_QJnGCl0FebzxGOxPGJgha7L4pqXJueXgXKkmQj9yOQQjDHpoM35fZBmLiUKXFdJRoFwCPTwKe6Ql33kd7YY9_8u1gULhNQL3yG4lL-GBAih8SGoHJWNgy74f7Xyg/s320/IMG_6195.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpjSCYkKlp-CxRzuSuwb1S09WE9BIKbMCaO9-fH5Hvr7xCuo_XRM1LQybVHMqD6m7lwlget3cxWlqVdNHGc5AQCv3p9dJRHnargswXA2eixgEmCeUFKLbrQ833f89qLaHMsn_dbW8brLk/s1600/IMG_6191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpjSCYkKlp-CxRzuSuwb1S09WE9BIKbMCaO9-fH5Hvr7xCuo_XRM1LQybVHMqD6m7lwlget3cxWlqVdNHGc5AQCv3p9dJRHnargswXA2eixgEmCeUFKLbrQ833f89qLaHMsn_dbW8brLk/s320/IMG_6191.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsidYXElYfTsIr4MpBsaULIzTalP2YWlTHt39dO6uSJyzduNsMvW7schLQeY2G3x6uCW3zHUdifrXRnqnHT4hCUC4PSef8Xl6TA2iAqkOu7vl-w0zSJB2-mOnOpUYeNRdWOI5j35OfvE/s1600/IMG_6194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsidYXElYfTsIr4MpBsaULIzTalP2YWlTHt39dO6uSJyzduNsMvW7schLQeY2G3x6uCW3zHUdifrXRnqnHT4hCUC4PSef8Xl6TA2iAqkOu7vl-w0zSJB2-mOnOpUYeNRdWOI5j35OfvE/s320/IMG_6194.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Linking Up to these Amazing Blogs:</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cornerstoneconfessions.com/2013/09/t2t-linky-party-69.html" target="_blank">Titus2Tuesday</a></div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-66938507572863560412013-08-30T16:12:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:21:07.927-05:00Why I Homeschool: The Big QuestionHome-schooling has it's way of becoming the broken leg you can't seem to get rid of when it comes to questions. Have you ever broken anything and the cast seems to ring the perpetual bell, calling all nearby who notice to ask you, "What happened?"? At first you reply with long explanations, trying to help them "see" the whole picture. After a while, though, you're bound to start answering with quick little, "Fell down the stairs". <br />
<br />
Answering people about home-schooling becomes a little like that. At first I wanted to really help them understand with full-blown explanations, a list of books I had read, and statistics. Later, it became, "Eh, I just love to teach my kids" with a shrug and a change of subject. <br />
<br />
You learn after a while there are three questions in the same one:<br />
<br />
So, why do you home-school anyway?<br />
Interpretation: Are you nuts/crazy?<br />
<br />
Why is it you home-school, again?<br />
Interpretation: Do you really think you're way is better than ours?<br />
<br />
I'm curious why you home-school.<br />
Interpretation: I'm curious why you home-school.<br />
<br />
Even though it's not necessary to run through a list of whys every time someone asks you, it is important to sit down every now and then and find out the answers for yourself. A shift or change in why you home-school can determine what curriculum you use, whether or not you keep home-schooling, or what extra curricular activities become a part of your life or get cut off the list. <br />
<br />
The truth is, I don't even know all of my own whys. I know some of them really well and others I sort of run into...like, yep, there's another reason. Other reasons grow, change, shift or even disappear over time. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpSVsr0oVUWMcrSPDeamScQ26iBlfNOZ-YmZFjwvhJaU1EYZ9meOXWkESuiN55_-yBSTjYygjzuEcZAbWXcfn5HGz3vN7qD07FZnnsqs1JTOzwiTO2pezjWMqQRNFSQYCBLpRqYInuro/s1600/IMG_5845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpSVsr0oVUWMcrSPDeamScQ26iBlfNOZ-YmZFjwvhJaU1EYZ9meOXWkESuiN55_-yBSTjYygjzuEcZAbWXcfn5HGz3vN7qD07FZnnsqs1JTOzwiTO2pezjWMqQRNFSQYCBLpRqYInuro/s320/IMG_5845.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNue3nqt3Cn1cHQ0Bvr4M_vYDgnnPbjuk7skE4IubI0Eg68vs2_zlCKOfByBUSntqQjQOvB0SRh8qm6EGnaqPeZOebd5_uRuYfLLUCLOeKmV7LYPcyWeBQDQkIBG0oTDNkdOfo7gi16Gk/s1600/IMG_5512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNue3nqt3Cn1cHQ0Bvr4M_vYDgnnPbjuk7skE4IubI0Eg68vs2_zlCKOfByBUSntqQjQOvB0SRh8qm6EGnaqPeZOebd5_uRuYfLLUCLOeKmV7LYPcyWeBQDQkIBG0oTDNkdOfo7gi16Gk/s320/IMG_5512.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzHVVVua8P59IJmW3NRDH8CZW61atGPGzkU0zc1M7vleJDdi60Pbi5_oTrmkZBESLaXQWyUikuzVXqrKmC7FC4awBUOsOyKoKncktF-3Qija4eCbbIM6OR-6pB245Kv_berHMzqeonuxM/s1600/IMG_5027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzHVVVua8P59IJmW3NRDH8CZW61atGPGzkU0zc1M7vleJDdi60Pbi5_oTrmkZBESLaXQWyUikuzVXqrKmC7FC4awBUOsOyKoKncktF-3Qija4eCbbIM6OR-6pB245Kv_berHMzqeonuxM/s320/IMG_5027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8WpuJjySVQZigsjpvV9XJi_3d0ayPgQonOYZhRXWeonPSbrKrZrv9XTi9FcODSO4eH3rUoLMmv7T5HhLtFYW0df6f6AEwA9YoELD4Bb55vbPBO79HZBoY6UpaXXja2MxUGL1gJE3LeQ/s1600/IMGP1054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8WpuJjySVQZigsjpvV9XJi_3d0ayPgQonOYZhRXWeonPSbrKrZrv9XTi9FcODSO4eH3rUoLMmv7T5HhLtFYW0df6f6AEwA9YoELD4Bb55vbPBO79HZBoY6UpaXXja2MxUGL1gJE3LeQ/s320/IMGP1054.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here are some of mine:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I feel called to home-schooling. For some, that may seem like a cop out answer, but I don't think so at all. God knows all things, including where our family and our children are headed. God can see the future and I can't...so in trusting His direction for my life and the lives of our children, we also trust Him in our destinations. Josh and I prayed from the time we were married until our oldest was two years old, seeking God's direction in this area. I was mainly public schooled and Josh was primarily home-schooled, so we saw this decision coming even before we had children. If I had no other reason than this, it would be good enough for me to obey God in what He called me to.</li>
<li>Individualized Study--other than the previous reason, this is probably my strongest pull in home-schooling. If every single teacher and leader in the school were a Christian, prayer were still allowed in the classroom, bible taught as a subject in equality with math, and every child was a good influence on our children...I would still home-school. I absolutely love the freedom to allow studies to take off in wonderfully deep directions. Knowledge is limitless and I don't believe that every child needs to know the same exact bits of it. Sure, every child needs to know how to read and do basic math, but who's to say that one child doesn't need a spoonful of Columbus and a feast of Roman Civilization? Who's to say one child needs merely a basic understanding of mathematics and another child needs to spend hours a day leaping ahead to understanding numbers at a level rarely taught in elementary studies. </li>
<li>Learning in the home atmosphere--this is one that developed over time for me and is now one of my favorite benefits of home-schooling. When we first started, I set the kids down at the table and we had a specific place and time to study. Now, our entire home and yard are places of learning. The day I gave into this was the day I found the joy of home-schooling. On a cool spring day, I may find one child balled up in a quilt on the front porch reading "Heidi" and drinking Chai Tea and the other child up a tree with a spiral notebook writing a story. On a hot day right before or after summer break, it wouldn't be unusual to find both children in a wade-pool in the middle of lunch break and then swinging in their swimsuits with a good book. I've found that the more comfortable my child is the better the information sinks in (with a few exceptions like handwriting and math drills).</li>
<li>"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge..." Prov. 1:7. I believe this. I believe that all knowledge, not just biblical knowledge, begins with the utmost respect and reverence of God. Step by little step, I think public schools are being pushed further and further away from the respect and reverence of God. I think that separating God from knowledge is about like separating H2 from O and expecting to be hydrated anyway. There are some parents who can and do work at mixing God back into their child's public school education successfully. My parents did. I personally feel like that would be an uphill battle too complex for this mama.</li>
<li>I wanted for my children what God told the Israelites to do to teach their children. "These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up..." Deuteronomy 6: 6-7 (but really 6: 1-9). I envisioned for my children that everything they learned, along with the knowledge of God's ways, would be integrated into every aspect of their lives--while cooking breakfast as well as while playing outside, while studying the bible and while studying science, in good days and in bad, all throughout the day. I wanted to be in the middle of a math lesson and be able to grab an apple out of the fridge to show them what 1/8th looked like. I wanted to be out in the back yard picking Basil, and be able to compare it to the pruning that God does in our own lives to allow us to grow. And, I wanted these kind of lessons to happen on the spur of the moment. Home-schooling provided the greatest opportunity for this in our family.</li>
<li>Learning to live, not just to learn--this wasn't one I really thought about ahead of time, but more realized as time went on. Learning was our primary goal as we home-schooled, but I had lots of one on one time with each child to teach things beyond book learning. Abby's now 10 and has been able to cook simple meals, wash dishes and clean up the kitchen, run the washer and dryer, and change a diaper for the past two years. Recently, Abram has taken on learning to run the washer and dryer. He's also been helping unload and reload the dishwasher the past couple of years. Both of my older children know how to understand what Bubzy (almost 2) wants as well as I do. They've learned his toddler speech along with me. It's not unusual when I get sick, for Abby and Abram to pretty much take over for the day. </li>
<li>I love teaching! There is something so special about seeing the light in your child's eyes brighten when s/he finally understands something that's been a challenge for them. When my oldest was learning to read, it brought me to tears every time she hit a new milestone. We had learned it together. I had learned how to teach a child to read and she had learned to read. It was an amazing feeling! </li>
<li>As a bonus, I don't have to worry near as much about drugs, violence, promiscuity, and bullying when they school at home. All children, whether schooled in public school, private school, or home school still face temptations when they're around others. It just happens. When I hear from teacher friends and people working in the schools, however, I know that kids have changed a lot since I was there. It's not uncommon to hear of gang activity, sexual activity as early as 5th grade (shocking!), drugs, and bullying. Children who school at home still play with kids in the neighborhood, go to club or sports activities, and Sunday school. However, the numbers of children and the somewhat controlled environment do tend to decrease the chances of the most serious worries. One cul-de-sac in our own neighborhood has less variety of influence than an entire cafeteria of children. It's just numbers. There are non-Christian people and kids that go to church, but far more that are believers than not. You may still find a bully on the basketball court, but sports and club activities are full of children who's parents care. You rarely have gangs and violence coming from these families--wherever their children go to school. It's not full-proof protection, but it does reduce exposure to the worst of the worst. </li>
<li>I have the time. Flexibility is so important to have when teaching children. They may fly through several lessons and then get stuck on one thing. At home, I have the time to sit day after day on that same foundational information my child needs to learn before continuing on. It may seem quite a bit slower, but there aren't many holes in their education. That doesn't mean my time isn't packed to the gills during school--I just have the freedom to spend that time where the child needs it.</li>
<li>And last, but definitely not least, I want my children to see themselves for who they are as people and not by what grades they make or who they hang out with or what bag they carry.</li>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>
</ul>
Linking Up to these Amazing Blogs:<br />
<a href="http://cornerstoneconfessions.com/2013/09/t2t-linky-party-69.html" target="_blank">Titus2Tuesday</a><br />
<ul>
</ul>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-15521233858758322492013-08-27T14:08:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:20:14.133-05:00Back to (Home) School: My "Class"Like so many others, yesterday was our first day back to school, but for us...we don't need to leave the comfort of our own home! We are among the growing number of home-schoolers, and have been for years. We've been home-schooling since our oldest was two years old, almost 9 years ago now. Wow! I can't believe it's been that long. <br />
<br />
Home-schooling is just the everyday normal to me, but I know for those out there who are curiously watching from the side-lines, the more information the better. Some are even trying to determine if this life-style leap is for their family. So...I'm going to spend some time in the next several posts giving a little more detail than normal about our home-schooling life. <br />
<br />
If you're one of the curious, stay tuned (or sign up for the e-mail option). I'll be sharing my personal why's, when's, how's, likes and dislikes, etc. <br />
<br />
For now, let me just introduce you to my students...my three beautiful children:<br />
<br />
My oldest, Abby, is 10 and is definitely our studious one at this point. She learns really well through reading and so we load on the books!! She loves art and science and enjoys learning about civilizations such as the Egyptians and Romans. Abby prefers studying outdoors when the weather permits and can be found most days on the swing or up a tree reading. She reads about 3-4 hours a day, including everything from specific encyclopedias (she studied anatomy last year) to teeny-bopper novels. We limit her workbooks to only what's absolutely needed, since we don't want to take up valuable reading time with busy work. See the stack by her right knee? Out of all the books surrounding her, those are the only workbooks. Happy 5th grade, Abby!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-V0H5k6-YOaWy7J9R3i1WIe-x5kbLdNsRcLJfqTQGGad0_0ocZaEPz4a_w2b1RT1_Wg9HcfaFKFnE_9_qXpmmVpKPmqfAGW3ZlNFF_9S9ERLzQI5NNm2fAYmDc85ABDrPVhvCHSirPUI/s1600/IMG_5966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-V0H5k6-YOaWy7J9R3i1WIe-x5kbLdNsRcLJfqTQGGad0_0ocZaEPz4a_w2b1RT1_Wg9HcfaFKFnE_9_qXpmmVpKPmqfAGW3ZlNFF_9S9ERLzQI5NNm2fAYmDc85ABDrPVhvCHSirPUI/s320/IMG_5966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjru680Fqi9h5WGDbOPOS2vJKUeEqXdBfxsJXzxBYCmOTuvNrP7DXnwUTIYXsLmYXSAaBPTig6EJOtptriq_Secwjr_OqITWHiS-b794JQoNa6l0WD3xU2-N_pH-XZeQwMeyvOkH4GqIAM/s1600/IMG_6018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjru680Fqi9h5WGDbOPOS2vJKUeEqXdBfxsJXzxBYCmOTuvNrP7DXnwUTIYXsLmYXSAaBPTig6EJOtptriq_Secwjr_OqITWHiS-b794JQoNa6l0WD3xU2-N_pH-XZeQwMeyvOkH4GqIAM/s320/IMG_6018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Abram, my second child, ALL boy, can't sit still to save his life. We're working on it, but he's only 8 so no worries. I can hardly believe my little fire-cracker is starting 3rd grade! He's as smart as a whip, but you would never guess it if he were confined to a table and chair. I learned a long time ago to not worry about <em>where</em> this child was or <em>what</em> he was working on...as long as he was in ear-shot of what was going on. He is EVERYWHERE! During the history reading, for example, he might be spinning on the floor, flipping his legs over the back of the couch, spinning on the breakfast stool, laying on his back swinging his legs in the air, or snuggled next to me with his head in my hip and his feet over the arm of the couch. But...when I'm asking the comprehension questions...he gets them right. I could sit him down and make him do a workbook page in math, but 2 hours later he'd be on the SAME page and in tears. However, when I verbally ask him the questions (such as, "72+33 is?" or "What's 6 x 2?") and only have him sit down to do the problems requiring visual attention, he can get through three lessons in one sitting. Go figure. I DO make him sit down for periods of time to practice sitting still...but I pretty much accept that these stretches of time are our least productive times of his day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRt3jM4pQ7yIUI-pGNqqNbtAGV0B5rfcjGuqXp_bHB6r9mGR7WX42KM4PtRG6Wd4ZodTJUyyKN6QRakDtuCpy3vSyEFqY3qmLc83zr8RFxYFwkuPVzGdYmLpgUCmNDGhxUwA_8Duf1_o/s1600/IMG_5988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRt3jM4pQ7yIUI-pGNqqNbtAGV0B5rfcjGuqXp_bHB6r9mGR7WX42KM4PtRG6Wd4ZodTJUyyKN6QRakDtuCpy3vSyEFqY3qmLc83zr8RFxYFwkuPVzGdYmLpgUCmNDGhxUwA_8Duf1_o/s320/IMG_5988.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7Il4LTo1FyV9qh9m6niuubWr5uPdgQ36LGgIBqaIitOJh-ItsvHQiSDxqMUf9EgDt-ANiid8gp3tRF49_HtLlaJjSlFDOW9x8Xz-kFybsX-D54GnJxhlZnfvUUsrxO5muJQK8rHsBaQ/s1600/IMG_6023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7Il4LTo1FyV9qh9m6niuubWr5uPdgQ36LGgIBqaIitOJh-ItsvHQiSDxqMUf9EgDt-ANiid8gp3tRF49_HtLlaJjSlFDOW9x8Xz-kFybsX-D54GnJxhlZnfvUUsrxO5muJQK8rHsBaQ/s320/IMG_6023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5elM3z5n85boIt2KJip9w7NcRuIypI-VP9iB3bnaCzAYbCQtaOFSXNz1MYyRUAUslG3nkxBfc2WVvpbBvXpBAA4FP7RqIAQVk4nC9zjVHHbVmQKXcvcEXXIcDWAi42mDZICj7PTmuPQ/s1600/IMG_6020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5elM3z5n85boIt2KJip9w7NcRuIypI-VP9iB3bnaCzAYbCQtaOFSXNz1MYyRUAUslG3nkxBfc2WVvpbBvXpBAA4FP7RqIAQVk4nC9zjVHHbVmQKXcvcEXXIcDWAi42mDZICj7PTmuPQ/s320/IMG_6020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Joshua, or Bubzy, is my spoiled baby. He gets held a lot, talked to even more, and if one person's too busy, no doubt he'll find someone to give attention. He's a big handful but everybody just adores him. "What's that?" is his constant question and he's learned to say quite a bit already. Whether it's something we understand or not, he never stops talking unless he's asleep. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWjqhoxCKMlIhLUlGRayKew08BYfp5etLiU4-0oDAOEyvw3MSDCuyRq1i_WLjrjgEOcYvYBB-wfhfdHOxzQfRZ9J9PewoMBIFub9isCs80XArU9aAJoeE3o4HfsAbKXdRPpaojMzLjCA/s1600/IMG_5963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWjqhoxCKMlIhLUlGRayKew08BYfp5etLiU4-0oDAOEyvw3MSDCuyRq1i_WLjrjgEOcYvYBB-wfhfdHOxzQfRZ9J9PewoMBIFub9isCs80XArU9aAJoeE3o4HfsAbKXdRPpaojMzLjCA/s320/IMG_5963.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswFlAg5Mx-mRWEZLdtySZR1HiDumZD8OKzJ94Wbjo6BKWL79tMThGbtQZYpfg6nMinG87h4jJTb7OUXPeQuhym0gCTP20blxb-q6ao2jowC024g8gfp7HFUKkjxLRbPgRV_J1moRGELQ/s1600/IMG_4114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswFlAg5Mx-mRWEZLdtySZR1HiDumZD8OKzJ94Wbjo6BKWL79tMThGbtQZYpfg6nMinG87h4jJTb7OUXPeQuhym0gCTP20blxb-q6ao2jowC024g8gfp7HFUKkjxLRbPgRV_J1moRGELQ/s320/IMG_4114.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
My 3 Loves</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5v5DydCSzzhzgxuVGuZg5jO5gc4BHbDyJg2MYOyUrgc7aV-ShdeerBfYzg7PeP4hInq3a32V8gIbhCRA06P8ponH6k0BfYFJP22bXWeESEUSArykhPAFFEBerrRD-0aFH21zp3Qr9XB4/s1600/IMG_5996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5v5DydCSzzhzgxuVGuZg5jO5gc4BHbDyJg2MYOyUrgc7aV-ShdeerBfYzg7PeP4hInq3a32V8gIbhCRA06P8ponH6k0BfYFJP22bXWeESEUSArykhPAFFEBerrRD-0aFH21zp3Qr9XB4/s320/IMG_5996.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNna24SlttOqnFqG6UYQVige6CWVErom_5D6uEoaawuAH-3FdiC8BbnMrGLc9HaTKJVEuLlaA1zCrYompQHO_wPvF59INK57GWuboMXHiH9hLGW1X4NPVFn8pgBPotT7Li_Pk9gg1DjA/s1600/IMG_6026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNna24SlttOqnFqG6UYQVige6CWVErom_5D6uEoaawuAH-3FdiC8BbnMrGLc9HaTKJVEuLlaA1zCrYompQHO_wPvF59INK57GWuboMXHiH9hLGW1X4NPVFn8pgBPotT7Li_Pk9gg1DjA/s320/IMG_6026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's to a new year in growing and learning together. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Linking Up to these AMAZING Blogs:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cornerstoneconfessions.com/2013/09/t2t-linky-party-69.html" target="_blank">Titus2Tuesday</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-7269118150473774362013-08-09T11:26:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:19:12.934-05:00New Shelves in the Kid's PlayroomWhen we sold our old house and bought our new one, we ended up with a little more money than we had planned for. Hurray! So, even though we hadn't planned on buying any new furniture, we had the opportunity. Decisions, decisions.<br />
<br />
Well, Abram had to have a new bed and so did Bubzy. We started with that. Then we decided that we'd love to have better toy storage. After all, that's a biggy when it comes to clutter and I really didn't want all their toys scattered about all over the playroom. (One of the reasons this had to change was a shift in storage needs. We used to have built in dressers in their closets where they put all their folded clothing. Their room dressers were used primarily for toy chests. Now, they needed these for clothing and didn't have storage for toys.)<br />
<br />
So, off to Ikea we went. A few too many dollars later, and we had beds for both boys and toy storage for the playroom. I can't wait to show you! <br />
<br />
It was such fun. Everyone helped put them together...even Bubzy. And, they fit perfectly!! Well, we had to cut off a bit of molding around the floor, but it's totally not noticeable.<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Okay guys, just pile all the stuff on one side of the room so we have space to put shelves together.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zAOdqAx5lFQjlRIwOYuhrbUe6XGyGWjQ1xiBtEwDnUMIuqR2ld0vZ2CusEn2uybT8A8ZpXO2q6AMcFNzKQKxeLNizpn8qKM_RUnDXggVAnFIRFT-GWs0Hz3UcQXG_2ll1sj4az_Z2xI/s1600/IMG_5763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zAOdqAx5lFQjlRIwOYuhrbUe6XGyGWjQ1xiBtEwDnUMIuqR2ld0vZ2CusEn2uybT8A8ZpXO2q6AMcFNzKQKxeLNizpn8qKM_RUnDXggVAnFIRFT-GWs0Hz3UcQXG_2ll1sj4az_Z2xI/s320/IMG_5763.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This one?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQHOH_hSTDUUfsXZ_csufw66w38jSOJiIN_ydKyn6LcefwN0kJmKk6UYWGNhfrABhxw2u11CyMaSD122rIBr37mJHUt-AtbVYa1o4ZY29Z5GDFyQSCeC-maPFgzJyx70YIayAziJY6-U/s1600/IMG_5713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQHOH_hSTDUUfsXZ_csufw66w38jSOJiIN_ydKyn6LcefwN0kJmKk6UYWGNhfrABhxw2u11CyMaSD122rIBr37mJHUt-AtbVYa1o4ZY29Z5GDFyQSCeC-maPFgzJyx70YIayAziJY6-U/s320/IMG_5713.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I got this, Mama.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwb0MxqqMWWxcSxZIYsKlkkniM-c7TRASr9lOOIvTX9Ta5aL7KWOm9nUvoRTxb8eXIzeYvgrIWk0V7922J_Pf_eK0hV1Lr3XMZws-TTjpw-GA3iQ4xJn24Xlew_wtRIR9lI8vB8886mU/s1600/IMG_5767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwb0MxqqMWWxcSxZIYsKlkkniM-c7TRASr9lOOIvTX9Ta5aL7KWOm9nUvoRTxb8eXIzeYvgrIWk0V7922J_Pf_eK0hV1Lr3XMZws-TTjpw-GA3iQ4xJn24Xlew_wtRIR9lI8vB8886mU/s320/IMG_5767.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Checkin' out Daddy's work.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRnWRv9yfhQOnPqnkB8USr3kNR33LGly3Fnv5EeKnujiO-cBZhSqPvWumFyvo8PeRTT1lgH8mMPsMh0w5nJlSQDNV-UeACB9jEmkTNuKYZGjI_tSR2qGqp8h9ua9iuJbDdWHMzMHClZI/s1600/IMG_5741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRnWRv9yfhQOnPqnkB8USr3kNR33LGly3Fnv5EeKnujiO-cBZhSqPvWumFyvo8PeRTT1lgH8mMPsMh0w5nJlSQDNV-UeACB9jEmkTNuKYZGjI_tSR2qGqp8h9ua9iuJbDdWHMzMHClZI/s320/IMG_5741.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Daddy's there to do most of the heavy work.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jnK2rkFxqcMI58j_WKxAQ46Wd5ZEkl3pnCSymI8H7IVRGTTx3bkCMhetj5w25Nx31k_4OlE2mSRi-7zMa_8UYgKONVlBcG5aF-YXBWYANP5T92bC9a_Mj6rkyee27vhqWiy0-EDxLGQ/s1600/IMG_5780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jnK2rkFxqcMI58j_WKxAQ46Wd5ZEkl3pnCSymI8H7IVRGTTx3bkCMhetj5w25Nx31k_4OlE2mSRi-7zMa_8UYgKONVlBcG5aF-YXBWYANP5T92bC9a_Mj6rkyee27vhqWiy0-EDxLGQ/s320/IMG_5780.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Can I try the drill, Dad?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJeushTkXvlR2C9YP8vU84xPDGgdzONywj2OwbNWNxoVGSjajVvVRO1j25vG4pd8HTt5ungzekb0S-bjeyQSIE4C3XrNYr6giDaT91nObMV0QSSTa7yLEOaPK8Gc-biJZ8rHyKD1JXkr8/s1600/IMG_5736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJeushTkXvlR2C9YP8vU84xPDGgdzONywj2OwbNWNxoVGSjajVvVRO1j25vG4pd8HTt5ungzekb0S-bjeyQSIE4C3XrNYr6giDaT91nObMV0QSSTa7yLEOaPK8Gc-biJZ8rHyKD1JXkr8/s320/IMG_5736.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I need that one, Sissy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Bigrfh74iwZ9GeU5ktWNtXhH-1XPCp-7Vtc6OoURtV9G2OeMqVIY0y1UTAJ9qKXGh81cy2RRpzKNByF3aSlUrq7Zt1hon1BGC-BBc9XuS5YnMJ2T1bBLYr1-5ieIZ8Hb6eA50zYCUMg/s1600/IMG_5774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Bigrfh74iwZ9GeU5ktWNtXhH-1XPCp-7Vtc6OoURtV9G2OeMqVIY0y1UTAJ9qKXGh81cy2RRpzKNByF3aSlUrq7Zt1hon1BGC-BBc9XuS5YnMJ2T1bBLYr1-5ieIZ8Hb6eA50zYCUMg/s320/IMG_5774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bubzy really got the hang of putting the pegs in each shelf. That was his job and he was really proud of himself for helping so much.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2fKD-CjDy7QzNWJeD8udRXTX6o0EN64zBtiAMVBrUQgjYb_wf6lWknldSAdDufTKFS0d-6XHIgrdOryYr7BvlZbHnAAj5tsgGjpMNgONc7D0aG3dT6uosBRUNikNDQr73_ZxaaeYaQDY/s1600/IMG_5758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2fKD-CjDy7QzNWJeD8udRXTX6o0EN64zBtiAMVBrUQgjYb_wf6lWknldSAdDufTKFS0d-6XHIgrdOryYr7BvlZbHnAAj5tsgGjpMNgONc7D0aG3dT6uosBRUNikNDQr73_ZxaaeYaQDY/s320/IMG_5758.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Abby is so proud of the new shelf bins that she can use to store all their little toys in. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DMXQNTCzEQS1IS7B-iXhvI1uxH3r6HiWfmIHNol4zj_3ER0WvkJXlrj1N1mtc8U07zZONvaQoge7JItJbi-f6k7ZDJUcYoEKZp4tCSkp_1Zpr1FyKHw2w9RGKyXrjop2p_HVGUJuiQ0/s1600/IMG_5744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DMXQNTCzEQS1IS7B-iXhvI1uxH3r6HiWfmIHNol4zj_3ER0WvkJXlrj1N1mtc8U07zZONvaQoge7JItJbi-f6k7ZDJUcYoEKZp4tCSkp_1Zpr1FyKHw2w9RGKyXrjop2p_HVGUJuiQ0/s320/IMG_5744.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We even got daddy to hang some things on the wall, and Abby went right to organizing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZvurWUrtt4Q-EgvY0-C-1yCS5Ed4X-IQMae4qEIcXWFHskc-09Gsuq_JUGQvxKXnT2eGu9GoCzJZANANZbSrtqMkH0PwIDibOqqvcQfphUilfINmndiIr11_3hJaFg2tgyZ_aI1_kBzc/s1600/IMG_5794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZvurWUrtt4Q-EgvY0-C-1yCS5Ed4X-IQMae4qEIcXWFHskc-09Gsuq_JUGQvxKXnT2eGu9GoCzJZANANZbSrtqMkH0PwIDibOqqvcQfphUilfINmndiIr11_3hJaFg2tgyZ_aI1_kBzc/s320/IMG_5794.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
YEAH!! Time to unpack!! Only one box at a time, please.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2mcada7bn-BXrMKYQ-5l0KbGYu_ZjdWvgm5Q7Vf_euPrCEfjxq9U7mSsRJhOX_1D96uNxjQH_cGIkqoRdlQd8dMdkL7il6drgl_bnFdzdBcIE7s_TCoHwRphshJzyMi5o3YFyOw4ycMg/s1600/IMG_5788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2mcada7bn-BXrMKYQ-5l0KbGYu_ZjdWvgm5Q7Vf_euPrCEfjxq9U7mSsRJhOX_1D96uNxjQH_cGIkqoRdlQd8dMdkL7il6drgl_bnFdzdBcIE7s_TCoHwRphshJzyMi5o3YFyOw4ycMg/s320/IMG_5788.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We can't wait to show you the whole room when it gets set up and organized. We feel so blessed to have an upstairs place just for playing and having fun. </div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-81572914315217812062013-08-06T10:40:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:18:23.240-05:00Quick and Easy Box LabelingOkay, so I love all those posts about color-coding moving box labels. It's just so pretty. But...I'm just a little too lazy for that. I mean, if I'm going to color-code...it's going to last more than a move. And, personally, I'm not much of a color-coder anyway. I like stream-line, one glance, don't have to think about it or explain it to anyone. <br />
<br />
So, here's how I label my moving boxes:<br />
<br />
I label on the top and two sides of the box with a permanent marker. Each box has a number that's assigned to that box, the room it will go in, and who's stuff it is. See the second box down, #77?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP66cjRrnMd8JdNZDu0a6AZqDJ2Rqoi9ksX56ZFE003veZWJ5jP_ThMCIj4Y4xtatTHr9_5xEZkFLr-4GZcGhjw5OGaAktP1V0TYTh8-Crvw6G2oH5Ue2PP1PzeY2qmzeIrNCCfTy-CWw/s1600/IMG_5942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP66cjRrnMd8JdNZDu0a6AZqDJ2Rqoi9ksX56ZFE003veZWJ5jP_ThMCIj4Y4xtatTHr9_5xEZkFLr-4GZcGhjw5OGaAktP1V0TYTh8-Crvw6G2oH5Ue2PP1PzeY2qmzeIrNCCfTy-CWw/s320/IMG_5942.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have a notebook, nothing fancy, where I list the boxes assigned numbers. By the assigned number is where in the house the box belongs, and then I list generally what's inside the box. I don't inventory the box or anything, but if my camera is in there, I make sure that's written down. If I know I'll be looking for it, it's written down. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOeREKzBgPuQS6M_jyXjjLT-dVOPxnMInRyxXd_AQWDQFoeUv_K-2xAVZx0ngWkAgso-KmXLE6Wa8nlSddyekxJOwgcf0RFmwQh-kwvP_8nhMO5w-HVpuPsrcVLRSiKtHFd0mXA5MHWoQ/s1600/IMG_5941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOeREKzBgPuQS6M_jyXjjLT-dVOPxnMInRyxXd_AQWDQFoeUv_K-2xAVZx0ngWkAgso-KmXLE6Wa8nlSddyekxJOwgcf0RFmwQh-kwvP_8nhMO5w-HVpuPsrcVLRSiKtHFd0mXA5MHWoQ/s640/IMG_5941.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
When we move in our new home and I'm looking for my camera case, all I have to do is scan down the list. Oh, it's in box #77. And then, when I or someone unpacks the box, we mark a line through it. Easy. P.S. See the line right under 77? Those items were packed in my green bin instead of a box. I could've stuck a number on it, but since I only have one green bin, I didn't. <br />
<br />
Notice...it's easy enough that there are boxes packed by various persons in our family, and they still got labeled correctly. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VhwDeOin7eiWVgYlDIJwAbP2I9GSF0k__WS6-Lzi_fHcJ1Pb_cPGO6ndoZjUs-CHdnCLY5rfCJ8E7qpYDmgc94owcdXdc2IqAPy3BLKXbUiNNrOle7eWB8DPq1x9rJolA1zCSeWf0u4/s1600/IMG_5940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VhwDeOin7eiWVgYlDIJwAbP2I9GSF0k__WS6-Lzi_fHcJ1Pb_cPGO6ndoZjUs-CHdnCLY5rfCJ8E7qpYDmgc94owcdXdc2IqAPy3BLKXbUiNNrOle7eWB8DPq1x9rJolA1zCSeWf0u4/s320/IMG_5940.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-68229129418821566412013-08-06T10:19:00.003-05:002013-09-28T10:17:26.585-05:00Chuck Roast on Paper PlatesDo you ever have a sudden revelation, or an ah-ha moment, that surprises you? One of those moments when you think to yourself, why didn't I think of that before?<br />
<br />
Did you know that it is entirely possible to eat chuck roast that slow cooked in the oven 5 hours that day with cooked carrots and perfect mashed potatoes...on paper plates??? Amazing!<br />
<br />
I guess I always assumed that when you put together a perfect dinner that it better be on a set table with all the trimmings. And, you know what? I know there've been many a time when I haven't cooked anything "fancy" because all that work was followed by a sink load of dished to go with it. <br />
<br />
Ah ha moment! Roast, carrots, and potatoes...or a steak dinner...or home-made lasagna...taste just as good on paper plates! Who knew?<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
Stuffed!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTJNQ3xPkpI3XtDJnhezksf7VekYaoe6_qfjja2N4dl0nCm7zwM2Tiu-ph9F5f095uM_AkF9FFSL1q2SFa1LtymINCkB1KTykFXvVgMDig2LxslLU-8n9gnGC5CibvIXd3Hgjjlmb3Lg/s1600/IMG_5878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTJNQ3xPkpI3XtDJnhezksf7VekYaoe6_qfjja2N4dl0nCm7zwM2Tiu-ph9F5f095uM_AkF9FFSL1q2SFa1LtymINCkB1KTykFXvVgMDig2LxslLU-8n9gnGC5CibvIXd3Hgjjlmb3Lg/s640/IMG_5878.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mmmm!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiskkh9holuxAKyCEfXuxVLCa_Yl0qe3Ev1l_-EyqJUDvn-ddmy2q5bvo19vyIVt6XP33bLFll3yOsAqBVux3TxFMIk8POQneqKN6I3hfLLtrEGkUN0Tlo_X3EYXlBb4HZdOYpEEHibgLE/s1600/IMG_5879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiskkh9holuxAKyCEfXuxVLCa_Yl0qe3Ev1l_-EyqJUDvn-ddmy2q5bvo19vyIVt6XP33bLFll3yOsAqBVux3TxFMIk8POQneqKN6I3hfLLtrEGkUN0Tlo_X3EYXlBb4HZdOYpEEHibgLE/s320/IMG_5879.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-45061355394301125992013-08-06T09:56:00.001-05:002013-09-28T10:16:35.799-05:00Last Minute Mini GardenI know, I know...it's not the right season for planting. It was sort of on a whim that we decided to buy a few herbs and some peppers and just see if they'd survive the heat. <br />
<br />
There was hardly anything available to buy, which shows just how out of season we really are. We found a few good looking bell pepper plants, a very tiny Basil plant, some Rosemary that looked perky, and some Oregano. We'll see. <br />
<br />
We just bought the plants and one bag of soil. That's it. We just planted them among the landscaped areas of our backyard. Easy peasy. Let's just say we weren't willing to take a big risk the first time and off-season at that. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dR8BMlusy2vaFlgFdWsGUWCouAHvS0548i18cxbbZot6wGiK5Ezt3MaanKYJZDskSOdmoOD7G9CaK38oF_kOBTvMjvuPIc1mkxvJOfLXDE1kOJSZ6voIkiGj3led-0VYV2vvJjprPqc/s1600/IMG_5885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dR8BMlusy2vaFlgFdWsGUWCouAHvS0548i18cxbbZot6wGiK5Ezt3MaanKYJZDskSOdmoOD7G9CaK38oF_kOBTvMjvuPIc1mkxvJOfLXDE1kOJSZ6voIkiGj3led-0VYV2vvJjprPqc/s640/IMG_5885.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN41JB9e5kknfllttEg2PJbjr_LdDDKyCyasrCSWa6Z3azJ0FZtXTcysxGywi0sZePKyZw34wXOdw5-WIhEQrhsLuJ-JGZn_gG1Oe1gcVcazbhLoB3FQ-ugzQeKGBsZdNBridsz3oMv9A/s1600/IMG_5896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN41JB9e5kknfllttEg2PJbjr_LdDDKyCyasrCSWa6Z3azJ0FZtXTcysxGywi0sZePKyZw34wXOdw5-WIhEQrhsLuJ-JGZn_gG1Oe1gcVcazbhLoB3FQ-ugzQeKGBsZdNBridsz3oMv9A/s320/IMG_5896.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUouo33x4KFWjgDor1OGLl3C7ZKWTi7fvVfV029nWjRberAFP5o-Oc_bVBwYjq-H5N1bB6mhPkLkWU4emMy2jQB2Svklq3gdy3-EshjR0Yd9xRWIu-epvbfkX2xXzYXxQap-nonxDzy4/s1600/IMG_5887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUouo33x4KFWjgDor1OGLl3C7ZKWTi7fvVfV029nWjRberAFP5o-Oc_bVBwYjq-H5N1bB6mhPkLkWU4emMy2jQB2Svklq3gdy3-EshjR0Yd9xRWIu-epvbfkX2xXzYXxQap-nonxDzy4/s320/IMG_5887.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1WePAL4yxDVnluWTR0Ry0q4LcxVtlxvemrhh5okJcqR9rybem2K3zl8yPrydpHV2__5u38D-K13q1HQYrG9xzOPKaXLUnf2vDEgkzhcO5TdvSbG5VSrtVejm9ffiVAFXg828-m5B7ReI/s1600/IMG_5901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1WePAL4yxDVnluWTR0Ry0q4LcxVtlxvemrhh5okJcqR9rybem2K3zl8yPrydpHV2__5u38D-K13q1HQYrG9xzOPKaXLUnf2vDEgkzhcO5TdvSbG5VSrtVejm9ffiVAFXg828-m5B7ReI/s320/IMG_5901.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI8igsy73rrTTS4E3NF1fPFM5k0rO0lxoY1PehqNd7HS3byG7Cj3w3_d_d76HnBHeEFdoOsPhgUGy3ilsYIHjQcHYTiSfX5WptKGNQwVEPb8Mi8REw6eGTtmxh9cOy91vua1snBNq-s4c/s1600/IMG_5888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI8igsy73rrTTS4E3NF1fPFM5k0rO0lxoY1PehqNd7HS3byG7Cj3w3_d_d76HnBHeEFdoOsPhgUGy3ilsYIHjQcHYTiSfX5WptKGNQwVEPb8Mi8REw6eGTtmxh9cOy91vua1snBNq-s4c/s320/IMG_5888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvAlgKzCU1t-pazLwwxlc64wiHYOQ-fWfxg8qUi7pr5L96z3_sX3gi3H7sk9eo6I9KPpF4SqC4Gz2vjpEQttkZNmdFDx0y50C0amFrT_WH6QSMKqti95msjwLmf5ntnoekksYK5mk1o0/s1600/IMG_5891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvAlgKzCU1t-pazLwwxlc64wiHYOQ-fWfxg8qUi7pr5L96z3_sX3gi3H7sk9eo6I9KPpF4SqC4Gz2vjpEQttkZNmdFDx0y50C0amFrT_WH6QSMKqti95msjwLmf5ntnoekksYK5mk1o0/s320/IMG_5891.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxO6GwmvvkJAtVHVyF1HTQbFizb2g-rhTFLoAlEppTSntvr-a0ERFx-Ezr1cFHdCglvuYBgsXC85h7VtWppnQghBenKAXjhmrrTdd8wEEtNn1SWZC160uITjF6raO5mwz_jdJP0lNPRI/s1600/IMG_5884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxO6GwmvvkJAtVHVyF1HTQbFizb2g-rhTFLoAlEppTSntvr-a0ERFx-Ezr1cFHdCglvuYBgsXC85h7VtWppnQghBenKAXjhmrrTdd8wEEtNn1SWZC160uITjF6raO5mwz_jdJP0lNPRI/s320/IMG_5884.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bubzy just couldn't get enough of carrying around the bell pepper plants. We were so unprepared that we couldn't find a shovel, hand or big, so we ended up using a tile scraper. Haaaaa! Kinda funny. Oh well. We'll see how it all turns out. If nothing else, the kids had fun digging and planting. </div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-52068845697141716872013-08-05T19:29:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:15:03.538-05:00Welcome to Our New HomeI really love our new neighborhood. I've always dreamed of living in a place like this. Not that I wouldn't mind a huge piece of land in the mountains or a deserted island--but this is the kind of dreamy that meets with our reality. Here it is! <br />
<br />
<div align="center">
I just LOVE all the trees in this neighborhood. I was a little worried about that when we decided to buy a whole lot newer house. This house was built in 2006. We're on a corner lot, which was one of my biggest wish list items, along with it being on a culdesac, which it also is. Seriously gals, I really thought this would only remain a dream until the day we moved in. I'm in love!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDFK2KCzTW-bQ9mAKd58ZyDbREdBHi50yZOUtIPEKEV4DVtLucIIfkA7lrJA2TkbUzpyC70QNL98oANWr6J_MqcGdjFyGvgfG4-c3cJ3gHFhT5r-3aPkjVfOoaQOWBvbS9o0CyhAOV5O0/s1600/IMG_5905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDFK2KCzTW-bQ9mAKd58ZyDbREdBHi50yZOUtIPEKEV4DVtLucIIfkA7lrJA2TkbUzpyC70QNL98oANWr6J_MqcGdjFyGvgfG4-c3cJ3gHFhT5r-3aPkjVfOoaQOWBvbS9o0CyhAOV5O0/s320/IMG_5905.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
Welcome!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJ2i731iub-zMKlaj6dMWSqLdugR-Txw8aXQw9k_-e5VvRFffLi21jEONyjLITUsBOt_MxCe_ooIPhxy-Td1l0H-xrpoWRlV_NBO5cYLF5mD2gPph_HzbpiZUEYVXUQCszbjTxh8F758/s1600/IMG_5909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJ2i731iub-zMKlaj6dMWSqLdugR-Txw8aXQw9k_-e5VvRFffLi21jEONyjLITUsBOt_MxCe_ooIPhxy-Td1l0H-xrpoWRlV_NBO5cYLF5mD2gPph_HzbpiZUEYVXUQCszbjTxh8F758/s640/IMG_5909.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Come on in and plop your shoes by the front door. This view was what drew us in in the first place. As soon as I saw the art niches all lined up neatly across from the stairs in a big 'ol wide hall, I knew I had to look. Let me tell ya, though. I had no idea how incredibly roomy in felt! We walked in the first time and just gasped. It was like, ROOM. Lots and lots of airy space. I can breath in here. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1c37rFBegjIZY49QF3muFG97jT-IcIMqB7UFKsA1bI8ehq8MWNFc69Cp-o0naiKHeBIB6yNo1fhrqlMmghAx6Ywuh9MsBqJvyBY1rkvlbpuZOHVQqitaWggYf31sq7JJqVhzyQ06vWxI/s1600/IMG_5916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1c37rFBegjIZY49QF3muFG97jT-IcIMqB7UFKsA1bI8ehq8MWNFc69Cp-o0naiKHeBIB6yNo1fhrqlMmghAx6Ywuh9MsBqJvyBY1rkvlbpuZOHVQqitaWggYf31sq7JJqVhzyQ06vWxI/s320/IMG_5916.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To the left of the front door is our office, which I'm going to turn into a library. Don't know when exactly, but I've got about a bazillion books waiting to be unpacked in there. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISi7jkTfyUgwQUQ_4Cq5t7-EembHeBnsdCMpLGmkBsANrerCc1jCN1u0UwymdqryZ7p3YrKRNc1jdWNZAHPAD8Mhk9TNE8k1lPnnNvpkB_XHvT65gIsZE2XqrVQFItpAAA2oF9fvQXsw/s1600/IMG_5922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISi7jkTfyUgwQUQ_4Cq5t7-EembHeBnsdCMpLGmkBsANrerCc1jCN1u0UwymdqryZ7p3YrKRNc1jdWNZAHPAD8Mhk9TNE8k1lPnnNvpkB_XHvT65gIsZE2XqrVQFItpAAA2oF9fvQXsw/s320/IMG_5922.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4lvw0Y6cYE7XK-sOkZLcSHLwr6tJRn5AhmBUVGuuM9773c1F0ZqB802bU8ESIn21hzT7IZW5vORLJ4pqORZYODE2HBSWRt5xQ9AJxZSEtnkrDy4Cxx3l9xCcgByCPBtiQMpeUvNbfjqA/s1600/IMG_5923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4lvw0Y6cYE7XK-sOkZLcSHLwr6tJRn5AhmBUVGuuM9773c1F0ZqB802bU8ESIn21hzT7IZW5vORLJ4pqORZYODE2HBSWRt5xQ9AJxZSEtnkrDy4Cxx3l9xCcgByCPBtiQMpeUvNbfjqA/s320/IMG_5923.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't you just love the neat curve at the bottom of the stairs? This house is a 1 1/2 story. All the bedrooms are down. The only rooms up are a big game room, which we're turning into the kid's playroom, a media room, and a small half bath. Perfect! All the mess stays upstairs. Told you it was dreamy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxqkHA99bTOW3uCF7hZbwI0nWYl7Gm4Bra0Xp3ZW3QdvBPlHUKEE7nm-x5k458zFB9XIz8sEvVgBxsTq85KEe9_NYdDCdHDey3jDXetjk7FHE8W3QHkAvfQa1mSUfXFbDrOODHm4cpY0/s1600/IMG_5921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxqkHA99bTOW3uCF7hZbwI0nWYl7Gm4Bra0Xp3ZW3QdvBPlHUKEE7nm-x5k458zFB9XIz8sEvVgBxsTq85KEe9_NYdDCdHDey3jDXetjk7FHE8W3QHkAvfQa1mSUfXFbDrOODHm4cpY0/s320/IMG_5921.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Opposite the office, to the right of the front door, is our dining room. It's got a nice view out to our front yard at the end of the culdesac.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W0uep9MrhFcDr8UimCjuyrLfYvBRKrjy98j_CPGCCrQRnIimOA2bJyGK8X_T4ZBm1OT1-GTP23vXugEk2Q7uUAhApYwUrHE18TyVW9i5L-Utuy6lhpO0EcffeTgi69f87OJeF0nworo/s1600/IMG_5917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W0uep9MrhFcDr8UimCjuyrLfYvBRKrjy98j_CPGCCrQRnIimOA2bJyGK8X_T4ZBm1OT1-GTP23vXugEk2Q7uUAhApYwUrHE18TyVW9i5L-Utuy6lhpO0EcffeTgi69f87OJeF0nworo/s320/IMG_5917.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
Laaaaaaaaaaaaaa!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Okay, so I'm a wee bit excited about my kitchen. Gas stove top--check. 42" cherry cabinets--check. Island kitchen--check. Laundry room right off the kitchen--check. Built in kitchen desk--squeal!! Pantry--check. Can it get any better than this?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJaT3G2ttcvU5494ag20K4OKGV02HCvD1Up3drmnsDPIUV916ZXAP2l4Txpl4AMVWtFORsj0rltsuIdWCPHHDNmpAGKw-W3QodA_BymaRgFGb_MwRybSOO_vtsuICwjDq0fsfJjXuWtI/s1600/IMG_5912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJaT3G2ttcvU5494ag20K4OKGV02HCvD1Up3drmnsDPIUV916ZXAP2l4Txpl4AMVWtFORsj0rltsuIdWCPHHDNmpAGKw-W3QodA_BymaRgFGb_MwRybSOO_vtsuICwjDq0fsfJjXuWtI/s320/IMG_5912.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpQ3QLkldS35Pq4DYcbMs43hBZbl8PjbP0A9QLa0xj6oguM1jM4mRYPyrynCIXobg_FYJ5eRreV8xK_PcHl57b8yAE2oBNOk86AWYI3sVq2VE_0YNLDqv8UC0eyeT8ZKHMQYW4ikwEH1I/s1600/IMG_5913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpQ3QLkldS35Pq4DYcbMs43hBZbl8PjbP0A9QLa0xj6oguM1jM4mRYPyrynCIXobg_FYJ5eRreV8xK_PcHl57b8yAE2oBNOk86AWYI3sVq2VE_0YNLDqv8UC0eyeT8ZKHMQYW4ikwEH1I/s320/IMG_5913.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Breakfast room right off the kitchen. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFCk9mR5nejrEnTnLinLIPWDQ9wah5QozVGq7jbUiw8WpmKYNu6YP27uGTXUkUOXsO7ERi6TfK_hyOpPERjcrZXL4dnP94b9fGPSLLm0VydT2DiR6-vuVPXYwEohdpQX3Dd0TT-WiROY/s1600/IMG_5925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFCk9mR5nejrEnTnLinLIPWDQ9wah5QozVGq7jbUiw8WpmKYNu6YP27uGTXUkUOXsO7ERi6TfK_hyOpPERjcrZXL4dnP94b9fGPSLLm0VydT2DiR6-vuVPXYwEohdpQX3Dd0TT-WiROY/s320/IMG_5925.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ah! A perfect living room to relax in. Gotta love all that light coming in the windows.</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwORJv-8Mo8rTvNOVAdGMItZS1jl90YOTgt3Z7OomnF8-qG9HvWsyHcNJNJz43yUq9YqyCP8xWLQB0jsHLshMedjrV7TMjRSAUjG8uyKZGlz9jC7JYvKH48addNzRHL2sHJAfImpPj4bw/s1600/IMG_5931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwORJv-8Mo8rTvNOVAdGMItZS1jl90YOTgt3Z7OomnF8-qG9HvWsyHcNJNJz43yUq9YqyCP8xWLQB0jsHLshMedjrV7TMjRSAUjG8uyKZGlz9jC7JYvKH48addNzRHL2sHJAfImpPj4bw/s320/IMG_5931.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And a fireplace--another squeal! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFuhr2VEMewrFgSPh8BcoD1YTaYSi4r6FDAhPmaozDfl7zi9-4geqEmqCelUxx1phtl-EJHAwqd_6jlUTfb3-bhWO0gAMRFFwiRO4eaW05ldifG1PjZXBWMmE1dlUmuO4oHJvT7miY2bc/s1600/IMG_5929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFuhr2VEMewrFgSPh8BcoD1YTaYSi4r6FDAhPmaozDfl7zi9-4geqEmqCelUxx1phtl-EJHAwqd_6jlUTfb3-bhWO0gAMRFFwiRO4eaW05ldifG1PjZXBWMmE1dlUmuO4oHJvT7miY2bc/s320/IMG_5929.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There's a little alcove that sits behind the living room and leads to the kid's rooms and bathroom. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2cNRFu_buCHUdTEV4YRk8RAZL_rP08AAIgp0I6kJw8UQ3cY80GYmvNXH1kedbDrh3QfmX_RT_16Jpx9o47UXTYCIb52tbFgDsQhC0225MNOh0TPK06xf0eDeB2dTZC5maytay2r0ARQ/s1600/IMG_5924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2cNRFu_buCHUdTEV4YRk8RAZL_rP08AAIgp0I6kJw8UQ3cY80GYmvNXH1kedbDrh3QfmX_RT_16Jpx9o47UXTYCIb52tbFgDsQhC0225MNOh0TPK06xf0eDeB2dTZC5maytay2r0ARQ/s320/IMG_5924.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I really like the kid's alcove. Gotta think of a cute way to decorate it. The bathroom's in the middle, Abram's room to the left, and Abby's to the right, a little out of this picture.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN9y-aoSA9Ikn0DIL1XMl9T6Ovw7nmRZQ3-OuOawWZo4At_ZkXcVZm9WPHWQjvFJxcQAnGUD8nI0WRpE6WKEnDeRY8f5o_uHaEGnBnYYnZp60ps3fsP_L-ajzUbZdZ0V59j420EQEoCZI/s1600/IMG_5933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN9y-aoSA9Ikn0DIL1XMl9T6Ovw7nmRZQ3-OuOawWZo4At_ZkXcVZm9WPHWQjvFJxcQAnGUD8nI0WRpE6WKEnDeRY8f5o_uHaEGnBnYYnZp60ps3fsP_L-ajzUbZdZ0V59j420EQEoCZI/s320/IMG_5933.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
And, this one's just to show you how the main living area is laid out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUTfvRvzZMhGBCK4vnVl0D5rwV3hmBYbnyvJSMFyyxzfbFArN9JAd_b8sU4Wwt0f-d3VldaVbkVyXAk8CvSUPAvXMqWhNtKqM5gujZiFovl2QLqfjyT8pTny_oli3xkhyVEQFGe1eKoM/s1600/IMG_5934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUTfvRvzZMhGBCK4vnVl0D5rwV3hmBYbnyvJSMFyyxzfbFArN9JAd_b8sU4Wwt0f-d3VldaVbkVyXAk8CvSUPAvXMqWhNtKqM5gujZiFovl2QLqfjyT8pTny_oli3xkhyVEQFGe1eKoM/s320/IMG_5934.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
So, what do y'all think?? Isn't it just perfect?</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I can't wait to blog my way through this house! It's just so nice. I can't wait to show you the kid's rooms and playroom and the backyard. Oh, there's so much to show...but it'll just have to come in little spurts. We're also gearing up for school right now, so time's a little tight. </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
It's great to be back!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Linking Up to these Amazing Blog Parties:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.abowlfulloflemons.net/2013/09/one-project-at-a-time-91713.html" target="_blank">A Bowl Full of Lemons</a><br />
<a href="http://cornerstoneconfessions.com/2013/09/t2t-linky-party-69.html" target="_blank">Titus2Tuesdays</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" title="It's Overflowing"><img alt="It's Overflowing" src="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Share-Your-Creativity-125.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-82824378988528689932013-08-05T11:53:00.000-05:002013-09-28T10:13:48.493-05:00We've Moved IN!!! Oh my, folks. This was the longest, hardest, weirdest move we have ever made! <br />
<br />
But...we're finally moved in. FINALLY. <br />
<br />
We found the house of our dreams, but the sellers weren't ready to move until the kids were out of school for the year. Since our house had already sold, we had to MOVE TWICE. Talk about the ultimate in difficult moves, moving twice in 6 weeks. <br />
<br />
For the duration of the 6 weeks, we moved the bare essentials to my parents old house that they were trying to sell and staged it while we were there. We haven't got the final word yet, but they had two interested parties and might have a sell--we hope. <br />
<br />
After all of that, we decided to hire movers the second time around. Still not convinced that was the best thing we could've done. They moved all the furniture and packed boxes, but left a ton of bins and odds and ends behind. It still took us a day of moving after the movers were finished. Oh well. At least Josh didn't have to break his back moving twice. The heavy stuff was done. <br />
<br />
So, I know you're really just waiting for the pictures, right? <br />
<br />
<div align="center">
Welcome to our new home!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivEFyXqZtT3k7SXSfIXIO3QmE7ZdreI_2_CpUADzlA6Aaxx-PcY372NpyxZwB3EBTN_oec78PqhL2mDiOXzikH_1ZGFpnkxr9ED2LOr8HBIGEBYtdtt9JkPowkdW2Q2CtXh3LtaFDO3Y/s1600/IMG_5908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivEFyXqZtT3k7SXSfIXIO3QmE7ZdreI_2_CpUADzlA6Aaxx-PcY372NpyxZwB3EBTN_oec78PqhL2mDiOXzikH_1ZGFpnkxr9ED2LOr8HBIGEBYtdtt9JkPowkdW2Q2CtXh3LtaFDO3Y/s320/IMG_5908.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zes_8-lrCwCIBLYNC37exOK0y71IMV4RYq4upI_6lpfrVU0hAi2Mj4hdo9Rc8W-11T_9lK8vrFL3EReLSrBB5H92d6HzbMwLC0P70ASdekSTre2KLIJMUrEWcpa88qQuQgYkO0FhGEA/s1600/IMG_5909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zes_8-lrCwCIBLYNC37exOK0y71IMV4RYq4upI_6lpfrVU0hAi2Mj4hdo9Rc8W-11T_9lK8vrFL3EReLSrBB5H92d6HzbMwLC0P70ASdekSTre2KLIJMUrEWcpa88qQuQgYkO0FhGEA/s320/IMG_5909.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dreamy corner lot on a culdesac, with trees galore.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3T0yU_9KK516jeZtQtW6W4-qUC5oP9xAa9A-eUdUit2IzKAFLQvM9tHsXMPS_1E7Lu5S0X0-W-5Ev5IBHmebQbn3D2MQsV3AGwbWTfXxgOMtsX8T99OXft5tMmeo2ki1KH3MnLTVaqOI/s1600/IMG_5907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3T0yU_9KK516jeZtQtW6W4-qUC5oP9xAa9A-eUdUit2IzKAFLQvM9tHsXMPS_1E7Lu5S0X0-W-5Ev5IBHmebQbn3D2MQsV3AGwbWTfXxgOMtsX8T99OXft5tMmeo2ki1KH3MnLTVaqOI/s320/IMG_5907.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And a swing-set that stayed!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXqPOX8dtAcyFrGlk9cy7BjRIXSy7phSmaMQpUbgIJlGImW-AFX9crgDEsbzigyz34ilL586MiWvtuxAnAjULBTJyzes89sokN4EOw6TeRZ5-iky0oMWpKfkEBL7LtJZmedixl1NpnBe4/s1600/IMG_5802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXqPOX8dtAcyFrGlk9cy7BjRIXSy7phSmaMQpUbgIJlGImW-AFX9crgDEsbzigyz34ilL586MiWvtuxAnAjULBTJyzes89sokN4EOw6TeRZ5-iky0oMWpKfkEBL7LtJZmedixl1NpnBe4/s320/IMG_5802.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's so exciting when you see the moving truck pull in front of your new house!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYVhyphenhyphen761KwyCyGKkazFQ52TkWRnb75RuF4jWZOfoqEm-zSa9kcU9kcmzquz276872q_qtk3rRO6yW1rueMI0cZURPZvTN10Z9THNd3LGRQx8Y6G5XDUoLzYRznBqITte7CIAJiPps8C6Q/s1600/IMG_5623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYVhyphenhyphen761KwyCyGKkazFQ52TkWRnb75RuF4jWZOfoqEm-zSa9kcU9kcmzquz276872q_qtk3rRO6yW1rueMI0cZURPZvTN10Z9THNd3LGRQx8Y6G5XDUoLzYRznBqITte7CIAJiPps8C6Q/s320/IMG_5623.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just put those there...and there, and there, and there, I guess.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSji_r0vyLhCBEfmfeFpe9m7Tqfp_crY4iETJdB5iLQzfIkaqPfyYnO8Wf2dstDlyQJRHj8PYiA678T5G9E1DDwXxTUrk7dPVdDHwS6Xzz-LyA0vV5wjNf2ahO5DQ1KP48HweUfpf298/s1600/IMG_5638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSji_r0vyLhCBEfmfeFpe9m7Tqfp_crY4iETJdB5iLQzfIkaqPfyYnO8Wf2dstDlyQJRHj8PYiA678T5G9E1DDwXxTUrk7dPVdDHwS6Xzz-LyA0vV5wjNf2ahO5DQ1KP48HweUfpf298/s320/IMG_5638.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Toys go upstairs, Daddy. Can I help?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyHh7srYo00e0j0vEWj0gFVKymFT4JAgcgKsQqyVCyalQZTpjwVlj0VxrW9NIpEl14s5RHPX9xpeEllgMLGxwrABWbiVnrBALdWfaGcZ_WFZwkYPxgN1Kd1DDa2nZVbZma5Vm3fSDwXi0/s1600/IMG_5808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyHh7srYo00e0j0vEWj0gFVKymFT4JAgcgKsQqyVCyalQZTpjwVlj0VxrW9NIpEl14s5RHPX9xpeEllgMLGxwrABWbiVnrBALdWfaGcZ_WFZwkYPxgN1Kd1DDa2nZVbZma5Vm3fSDwXi0/s320/IMG_5808.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hmm...what goes in here?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbwvj62mCryIpLPOViaEEYB_gEHYJpQD9c_r4NvVB3-n6j16-dhOlnQ_l3fD_HyLgc6y2oo0fSrpWpXPH2GsBvGBlU1Atb6IUhgqObnAkFfNA7LaE3D3mm1mbH_15kE7g5qLDpZY_go8/s1600/IMG_5792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbwvj62mCryIpLPOViaEEYB_gEHYJpQD9c_r4NvVB3-n6j16-dhOlnQ_l3fD_HyLgc6y2oo0fSrpWpXPH2GsBvGBlU1Atb6IUhgqObnAkFfNA7LaE3D3mm1mbH_15kE7g5qLDpZY_go8/s320/IMG_5792.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<script>
(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
})(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');
ga('create', 'UA-44411231-1', 'debtfreemommyblog.blogspot.com');
ga('send', 'pageview');
</script><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-66627339749761600912013-05-15T21:30:00.000-05:002013-05-15T21:35:01.586-05:00After the After PictureThis morning I was thinking about how fast messes are made. <br />
<br />
So, day before yesterday, I perfected the kitchen breakfast area for pictures. There were maybe five dishes hidden in the sink, all the counters were wiped down, the floors swept, every inch of counter space cleared...you get the idea. <br />
<br />
Actually, let me show you:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbzidzMf9f1Qd8WjpXhoxlnLfFajMFpMUfNHZr7oAI9QpNNU3ULJdcLHwq8EIkMJmNae0Ha829N_C8540rWxRWVbU393qZOf-e_UEbJLSop5NxcyYJiLBxdxvMz-phyphenhyphenpHfil4eAShaRg/s1600/IMG_5343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbzidzMf9f1Qd8WjpXhoxlnLfFajMFpMUfNHZr7oAI9QpNNU3ULJdcLHwq8EIkMJmNae0Ha829N_C8540rWxRWVbU393qZOf-e_UEbJLSop5NxcyYJiLBxdxvMz-phyphenhyphenpHfil4eAShaRg/s320/IMG_5343.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2i2l6_u69u3e_fFXm5Y6gtsBgSGQFUmlU7z6-d7yGgqC2xXfJ1MKbIowAAZUgK5aaITSBb5EQUQaUzTdY-8epqfrhlyQTJZ8NQfFvb9so9zyVCU47yyk2G5Nrue_SqPV1N-ka47BzDo/s1600/IMG_5345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2i2l6_u69u3e_fFXm5Y6gtsBgSGQFUmlU7z6-d7yGgqC2xXfJ1MKbIowAAZUgK5aaITSBb5EQUQaUzTdY-8epqfrhlyQTJZ8NQfFvb9so9zyVCU47yyk2G5Nrue_SqPV1N-ka47BzDo/s320/IMG_5345.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It felt great to FINISH. I clean, tidy, shuffle around, every day--but many times it just doesn't get all the way to done. But, I have the pics to prove it. It was done. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That VERY NIGHT after dinner. This is the picture I took upon waking this morning...before anyone even grabbed a bowl for breakfast. I mean this is literally less than 12 hours from after to After the "after":</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7s3sn5fN0KBnApc6QuFvkRGUqKcsLQaQE-vqU6qiEYdcSrUF04pqWLayx5I92ucRasroO1PiRtcBF_8FhCVyz0kHzdQ2XZZhzPmp3m-lUIZhqNGnAesSvBlX25SQbtzDEKRS5kr4Ols/s1600/IMG_5348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7s3sn5fN0KBnApc6QuFvkRGUqKcsLQaQE-vqU6qiEYdcSrUF04pqWLayx5I92ucRasroO1PiRtcBF_8FhCVyz0kHzdQ2XZZhzPmp3m-lUIZhqNGnAesSvBlX25SQbtzDEKRS5kr4Ols/s320/IMG_5348.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh My Word! Only 12 hours!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And...it's not like I didn't do any dishes. I cleaned up after breakfast. And you see the trashcan? FULL to overflowing. It's not like we didn't throw away anything. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, here's the After the After breakdown.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The water bottles, chips and bags are just a few on the way home groceries Josh brought home. We ran out of juice, milk and cereal, and the milk was all that got put up while I cooked dinner. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The papers in the middle of the table were the kids writing "I will not fight." 5x each. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The broom on the floor is Bubzy's and he pulled it out to sweep.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The juice-cup was a dig-out of Bubzy's exploration through cabinets.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The dishes on the butcher block were all used for cooking dinner. We ate on paper plates.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The paper plates wouldn't fit in the trashcan that was totally empty this morning! So there they sit on the edge of the counter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Whataburger cup was leftovers from the night before. Someone pulled it out to find out it was watered down and it also wouldn't fit in trash...along with the coke can.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The bananas were plopped on top of my canisters and the Pringles were un-bagged but not put away as well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, as you can see.........we're quite the messy family!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4480477805650424467.post-78136332116407147092013-05-11T11:35:00.001-05:002013-05-11T11:35:31.917-05:00Abby's Room, Before/AftersI was so incredibly proud of Abby on this project. I may have already posted about this, but these are just the before and afters. She and Abram even painted 90% of the room themselves. She picked the paint, bedding, rug, and all. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqvC9hz8mtVstnOZup7Aaoqynyrk83JmwzcLQbiLbYP8TupyzbKQrEdSUaOYRE4RaH9NoCw6Dns_t3G4CJy0yCd-1RnH9iq__hIeCZk84EzQIH2QKE8hiQ6Cv3dwAYq_zE1Z52WBrw9TU/s1600/Abby's+Room,+before+2205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqvC9hz8mtVstnOZup7Aaoqynyrk83JmwzcLQbiLbYP8TupyzbKQrEdSUaOYRE4RaH9NoCw6Dns_t3G4CJy0yCd-1RnH9iq__hIeCZk84EzQIH2QKE8hiQ6Cv3dwAYq_zE1Z52WBrw9TU/s320/Abby's+Room,+before+2205.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXGTmJIowMetSXSCVvoZouQBYKPTR7ZE5-VoDz6o0ry9ZD_DtG-z1mhzSkAsy7mpvtMG8bMqJgtgqSd7EbxDJXCuSdg1DF-vsumPrGtfzf4wUy_6WPtUqxSuE7cGlO7LiuCN9CWUhf_w/s1600/Abby's+room,+after+2205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXGTmJIowMetSXSCVvoZouQBYKPTR7ZE5-VoDz6o0ry9ZD_DtG-z1mhzSkAsy7mpvtMG8bMqJgtgqSd7EbxDJXCuSdg1DF-vsumPrGtfzf4wUy_6WPtUqxSuE7cGlO7LiuCN9CWUhf_w/s640/Abby's+room,+after+2205.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsF1wHFsShXQ1I1SZAEg7R4Z_BahdDYWyV8aH8toRx58PN2KUD_ZuCqSa0MlRZTHKPBBLJeTAhq4wnQeyQjEWI1Lyxbr4knsdL-Pkx8B9UVHDdUn4xJXP8xhYyo-MWrp-GHDlbzW98I2w/s1600/Abby's+room,+after2,+2205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsF1wHFsShXQ1I1SZAEg7R4Z_BahdDYWyV8aH8toRx58PN2KUD_ZuCqSa0MlRZTHKPBBLJeTAhq4wnQeyQjEWI1Lyxbr4knsdL-Pkx8B9UVHDdUn4xJXP8xhYyo-MWrp-GHDlbzW98I2w/s320/Abby's+room,+after2,+2205.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03672914690091136760noreply@blogger.com0