Country Roads Lead Me Home

The Simple Womans DayBook

2012-02-08T17:58:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...A pretty day but COLD...

at least compared to the past few!

I am thinking...Garden....Seeds....Food.....SUN!

I am thankful...For Good Weather & Friends -

who volunteered to help us get that old deck off. It had gotten very dangerous this winter and I didn't want the girls to get hurt before we got to it.

In the kitchen...Bug is doing dishes,

dinner is done - except for Good Ole Boys waiting in the oven,

Hero is on the freezer so we can keep an eye on him.

I am wearing...Ancient gray BUM sweatshirt, Blue windpants & Slippers.

I am creating...Seed shopping list & School list.

I am going...To bed early!

I am wondering...Why people haven't returned my calls today?

I am reading...The Centurion's Wife

Little House on the Prairie - school

The New Way Things Work - school

Great Expectations - Lit

Detached

I am hoping...That God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

He did get hired on to our fire department yesterday so he is excited about that.

I am looking forward to...Getting my van running,

which he is SUPPOSED to do soon!

I am learning...More about critters and Civil War era things.

Around the house...We FINALLY have bunnies!

But only 2 - one liter.

I am pondering...Everything we need to do.

A favorite quote for today...Hunny was getting REALLY loud so I whispered "Shhhh....you need to quiet down some."

To which she whispered back...

"Why are you yelling at me?!"

lol.

One of my favorite things...The coos and gurgles of a baby.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Basket Class, Sis goes to the Dr., School, Work, Rabbit Show, Church.

A peek into my day...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get It!

2012-02-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

This weeks Menu!

Monday

Breakfast - Grits & Toast

Supper - Chili, Cheese & Crackers

Tuesday

Breakfast - Toast & Pearsauce

Supper - Bean Soup

Wednesday

Breakfast - Bacon & Eggs

Supper - Pork, Squash, Brocolli

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes

Supper - Tacos

Friday

Breakfast - Eggs & Toast

Supper - Salad

What's on your menu?

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Womans DayBook

2012-02-01T03:29:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It's been a beautiful day!

This morning the sky was streaked with pink - gorgeous.

We hit 50' from all reports I've heard.

That is crazy for our weather....BUT I'LL TAKE IT!!

I am thinking...About iron and protein...

I am thankful...That we have friends and family who care.

In the kitchen...Day dishes have been washed, beans are still simmering.

I am wearing...Black hoodie t-shirt, blue jeans, tennis shoes.

I am creating...Well, I *need* to be creating my seed shopping list. I need to map out where things are going and get things in order.

I just haven't started yet...

I am going...To a homeschool moms tea tonight.

Looking forward to getting with these ladies, it's been awhile.

I am wondering...Where are baby bunnies are?

I expected at least the two litters by now...

I am reading...The Centurions Wife

Little House on the Prairie - school

The New Way Things Work - school

Great Expectations - Lit with Sis

Detached by Jessie Hogsett

I am hoping... That we get to the bottom of Sis's medical issues.
That God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...Our tax return!

I am learning...Currently researching anemia and iron rich foods.

Around the house...Kids are watching Land Before Time.

I am pondering... What are the right choices in health care for our family?

A favorite quote for today... "I love you mom."

One of my favorite things... Melting snow dripping off the roof on a warm day.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Bunnies, School, Work, Dinner with friends, Church.

A peek into my day...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get it!

2012-01-31T03:32:00.000-08:00

This weeks menu:

Monday

Breakfast - Toast & cheese

Supper - Chicken, broccoli, tater tots

Tuesday

Breakfast - Toast & Applesauce

Supper - Black Bean Soup

Wednesday

Breakfast - Bacon & Potatoes

Supper - Sloppy Joes & Home Fries

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes

Supper - Salads

Friday

Breakfast - Eggs & Toast

Supper - Pork & TBD

This week is a weird one.

A lot of guessing here but this gives me a guideline.

Saturday we'll be having Good Ole Boys amazing meatballs so everything else pales in light of them, lol.

What's on your menu this week?

COUNTRY GIRL

Pumpkin Soup

2012-01-26T19:08:00.000-08:00

In this weeks menu, I told you I was going to make a modified version of the squash soup I found at

Todays Menu: Take it or Leave it.

I'd never visited there before,

I simply found them by a swagbuck search for soup with some ingredients I had on hand.

It was good.

Really good.

Here's what I did.

I melted some butter in a pan.

They called for 1/4 cup but I just guessed.

(ok, I do that alot

- probably do to laziness and not wanting to dirty another item....)

I added two tubs of pumpkin.

(These are the Hillshire Farm/Glad lunchmeat tubs.)

And then a tub of diced tomatoes.

Amazingly, I DID have a can of coconut milk in the pantry.

Why, I have NO idea! lol.

So that was added next.

Then I added some water and some Chicken Better than Bouillon.

I threw in some diced garlic,

and an onion.

I often don't add salt and pepper

(well sometimes the pepper I do...)

WHILE I'm cooking -

I have a few here that add tons of salt before they even taste it (drives me NUTS)

so I just leave that up to the individual.

I had Good Ole Boy stop on his way home for some kielbasa.

He brought home both a regular one and a cheesy one.

So we sliced that up.

It made the soup REALLY CHEESY!

We simmered it for about a half hour or so.

Then served it up with some homemade bread.

It was SO good!

And we aren't even big pumpkin lovers!

Let me know if you try it and what you think.

COUNTRY GIRL

Voyager News - January Edition

2012-01-25T14:27:00.000-08:00

~ ~ ~ SET SAIL FOR A LIFETIME OF LEARNING ~ ~ ~

After our 2 week Christmas Break,

we began back with a new chapter.

Weaver, Vol. 5, Chapter 10

Days 1 - 7.

The Suffering Savior.

This chapter focuses on the last week of Jesus.

Our Bible lessons have been mostly in Matthew and John.

Social Studies has been in learning about the Jewish Religion.

We have discussed various festivals, worship in the temple and sacrifices.

Weaver Science has been learning about building.

Thus far we have learned about the inclined plane, levers, and the axle and wheel.

This is important to learn, because they are taking this knowledge and then building a model of the temple.

~Read Alouds~

Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Chapters 1 - 8

Parts from The New Way Things Work by David Macaulay

In Photography, we've learned about Dorothea Lang, Matthew Brady (VERY important name as we are involved with Civil War reenactments! lol), Ansel Adams, and Edward S. Curtis.

We have learned more terms and techniques such as aperture, depth of field, and rule of thirds.

I love seeing them getting out and creative with the cameras!

Home Ec has been going good.

We started the year by talking salad, and making many of them.

We followed that up last week with beef stew.

Sis has also (outside of class) made brownies and a cake, including home made icing.

We've gotten in a few lessons in Wisdom Words and I assigned a story from Story Starters for them to work on.

In Latin we have done Chapters 11 and 12.

For Chemistry we have reviewed, played some Bingo and worked on grasping the Doo Wop Board.

We are discussing fiction in Literature.

Out of a list I provided, Sis chose to read Great Expectations, by Charles Dickens.

I've never read it so it's a good choice.

Besides our assigned reading, we are discussing things like plot, setting and character.

Math has been going well for Hunny and Sis but Bug has began to struggle a bit.

Those mixed numbers and division, I tell ya...

12 school days this month.

(total - 81)

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2012-01-24T06:26:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It's a windy morning.

I am thinking...About how to be a better Help Meet.

I am thankful...That Einstein had school today!

In the kitchen...Coffee is on.

Will be starting breakfast here in just a few minutes.

I've already done the few dishes that gathered since Sis did them last night.

I am wearing...Black plaid fleece, Blue Jeans & Slippers.

I am creating...Still working on cutting scraps for rag rugs,

I've made 3 goat coats & need to make more.

I am going...To enlarge my garden this year!

I am wondering...What God's plan is?

I am reading...The Centurions Wife

Little House on the Prairie - school

The New Way Things Work - school

Great Expectations - lit with Sis

I am hoping...God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...Spring.

I am learning... About real food.

Around the house...Only two kids are up,

watching a bit of Netflix before we get moving for the day.

I am pondering... My thoughts, behavior and attitude.

A favorite quote for today..."Master Yoda is from Finland."

WHAT?!

Ok, so I misunderstood Hunny yesterday, but I thought it was hilarious.

She said he was from the dining room, but I heard Finland.

It was surprising because, well, really, that is not a country we have discussed much and I didn't think she even knew about it!

But then to learn she hadn't even said that

- and it doesn't sound like dining room....

One of my favorite things... The happy squeals & coos of a baby.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Work, School, Basket Class, Birthday Party, Baby Bunnies?

A peek into my day...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get it!

2012-01-23T07:22:00.000-08:00

This weeks Menu....

Monday
Breakfast - Oatmeal, fruit, toast.
Supper - Squash Soup
Ok, yes, I wanted something different!
Going to use a slightly modified version of this recipe
- that I've never tried before so it will be interesting!

Tuesday
Breakfast - Eggs & Toast
Supper - Venison Roast, Potatoes, Carrots

Wednesday
Breakfast - Biscuits & Gravy
Supper - Beans & Cornbread

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes
Supper - Chicken Pot Pie

Friday
Breakfast - Eggs & Toast
Supper - Spaghetti & Garlic Bread

COUNTRY GIRL

Christmas 2011

2012-01-22T18:30:00.000-08:00

Before we get too far away,

I wanted to share a glimpse of our Christmas.

We felt very blessed this year!

Hunny asked for this alpaca from Santa.

Santa brought Sis this cd.

A movie from Grandma.

She loves these!

From my husband.

From Santa.

We had a nice holiday.
Well, there was the typical RAD problems but aside from that....
We were up super early - the kids wanted to do presents before church!
So up early for gifts, then hustle to get ready for church.
We had a wonderful service, I really love our church.
Then off to my parents house for Christmas dinner.
It was a long day, but very enjoyable.

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2012-01-18T05:43:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...Yucky stuff if falling.

It looks like freezing rain?

All the area school are closed due to the weather.

Very yucky.

I am thinking...I need to go make Breakfast but want to finish something on here first -

why oh why is the computer so slow?!

I am thankful...That I don't have to go anywhere today!

That Good Ole Boy made it safely to town.

That we have food in the fridge/freezer/pantry in case we are stuck.

In the kitchen...Coffee is ready.

Cleaned the pot yesterday so it was a bit stronger than it has been!

Meat is thawing for tonight.

I am wearing...Blue Jeans, Black Fleece Sweatshirt, Slippers.

I am creating...Rag Rugs, Goat Coats, Chicken List, Seed List....

I am going...To try and make crackers.

I am wondering...What God has in store for our family?

I am reading...The Centurions Wife

Little House on the Prairie - school

The New Way Things Work - School

Great Expectations - Lit with Sis

I am hoping...That God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

Things haven't been great there lately as hours have been drastically cut.

I am looking forward to...Good Ole Boy returning safely home tonight.

I am learning...About real food and self sufficiency.

Around the house...It's decorated with Snowmen and snowflakes.

I am pondering...What chickens should I get? And how many?

A favorite quote for today...

"Don't interfere with anything in the Constitution. That must be maintained, for it is the only safeguard of our liberties."

Abraham Lincoln

One of my favorite things...Dreaming of summer.

A few plans for the rest of the week: School, Work, 4H Small Animal Association meeting (maybe), and Sis goes to a 4H training this weekend.

A peek into my day...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get it

2012-01-17T04:09:00.000-08:00

~This weeks Menu~

Monday

Breakfast - Grits

Supper - Chicken, Rice, Green Beans, Bread (homemade)

4H night so quick, don't dawdle meal.

Tuesday

Breakfast - French Toast

Supper - Pork Steak, Potato (haven't decided on mashed vs baked), Mixed Veggies, Bread (homemade).

Wednesday

Breakfast - Bacon, Eggs & Toast

Supper - Girls are cooking for Home Ec

Beef Stew, *hopefully* homemade crackers, Bread (homemade - probably).

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes

Supper - Burritos, Homemade refried Beans, Tortilla Chips.

Easy as Good Ole Boy & I have a meeting.

Friday

Breakfast - Eggs

Supper - Stir Fry Veggies, Rice, Egg Rolls.

What are you cooking this week?

COUNTRY GIRL

Things I've learned from Laura

2012-01-11T16:28:00.000-08:00

Er....Almanzo?

Farmer boy

Farmer Boy was finished just before Christmas Break.

What a great book.

While not quite the same as the Ingalls tales, enjoyable nontheless.

What I've learned from Laura, er Almanzo?

*Ch. 1 School Days - "Butternut hulls had dyed the thread for his coat and his long trousers. Then mother had woven it, and she had soaked and shrunk the cloth into heavy, thick fullcloth. Not wind nor cold not even a drenching rain could go through the good fullcloth that mother made."

So is this like felted wool?

*Ch. 2 Winter Evening - "They did not have to make beds for the hogs, because hogs make their own beds and keep them clean."

Huh. Really? Why do we associate them as dirty then?

So much for the 'your room is a pig sty' complaint...

*Ch. 3 - Winter Night - "You can fill a glass to the brim with milk, and another glass of the same size brim full of popcorn, and then you can put all the popcorn kernel by kernel into the milk, and the milk will not run over. You can not do this with bread. Popcorn and milk are the only two things that will go into the same place."

I can so totally see a little boy Almanzos age trying this! lol.

I thought this was neat.

Someday, maybe I'll get adventurous and try it with the kids.

Maybe a good science experiment?

*Ch. 5 Birthday - "The cold stood steadily at forty below zero, but the sun was shining, and all afternoon Almanzo played with his sled."

Were their thermometers the same as ours?!

We wouldn't go outside and play - especially all afternoon! - in that kind of cold!

Are we just total whimps now?

"Cattle did not have to be led to water. They came eagerly to the trough and drank while Almanzo pumped, then they hurried back to the warm barns, and each went to its own place. Each cow turned into her own stall and put her head between her own stanchions. They never made a mistake."

Is that normal?

Are cows really that cooperative? Easy? Smart?

*Ch. 15 Cold Snap - "He watched the moon anxiously, for in the dark of the moon in May he could stay out of school and plant pumpkins."

Is this planting by the moon?

And he seriously did that at night?

"All the corn was frozen. The little leaves were stiff, and broke if you touched them. Only cold water would save the life of the corn. Every hill must be watered before the sunshine touched it, or the little plants would die."

Interesting.

*Ch. 16 Independence Day - "This country goes three thousand miles west, now. It goes 'way out beyond Kansas, and beyond the Great American Desert, over mountains bigger than these mountains, and down to the Pacific Ocean. It's the biggest country in the world, and it was farmers who took all that country and made it America, son. Don't you ever forget that."

Wow. I think our government and all society should read that.

How are our farmers being treated today?

The farmers have made our country, and we NEED to remember that, and get back to those roots.

*Ch. 17 Summer-Time - "Father had shown him how to raise a milk-fed pumpkin. They had picked out the best vine in the field, and snipped off all the branches but one, and all the yellow pumpkin blossoms but one. Then between the root and the wee green pumpkin they carefully made a little slit on the underside of the vine. Under the slit Almanzo made a hollow in the ground and set a bowl of milk in it. Then he put a candle wick in the milk, and the end of the candle wick he put carefully into the slit...."

Bug wants to try this.

Has anyone grown a milk-fed pumpkin?

I wonder if it really works?

*Ch. 22 Fall of the Year - "Father was pleased. The soft snow was six inches deep, but the ground was not yet frozen. "Poor man's fertilizer," Father called such a snow, and he set Royal into plowing it into all the fields. It carried something from the air into the ground, that would make the crops grow."

Really?

There was alot in this book to think about.

Food, traditions, farming.

Here's a final quote to ponder:

*Ch. 29 Farmer Boy - "A farmer depends upon himself, and the land and the weather. If you're a farmer, you raise what you eat, you raise what you wear, and you keep warm with wood out of your own timber. You work hard, but you work as you please, and no man can tell you to go or come. You'll be free and independent, son, on a farm."

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Womans Dybook

2012-01-10T17:38:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It's been a beautiful day,

it's now evening and very dark.

I am thinking... How much I dislike RAD.

I am thankful... For my kids.

In the kitchen...Dinner put away, dishes done,

all that's left is to feed the inside critters and set the coffee pot!

I am wearing...Blue jeans, white mock turtle neck, purple zip up hoodie, slippers.

I am creating...Goat coat and rag rug....in my free time! hahaha

I am going...To be on top of things someday....

I am wondering...Why a RADish can't move on?

It's been 10 years....

why does he still think she will return for him?

Why can't he just accept us as his family?

I am reading...The Centurion's Wife

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens - Lit with Sis

Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder - School

The New Way Things Work by David Macaulay - School

I am hoping...That god provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...SPRING! :D

I am learning... More about Whole, Real Food.

Around the house...Einstein is hiding in his room,

Hunny is in the shower,

the others are watching LA Ink on Netflix.

I am pondering... Chickens, Gardening, Housekeeping, Rabbits, Goats....

A favorite quote for today...Hunny - How do you make bananas?

One of my favorite things... Hamburger...with salt and pepper...

A few plans for the rest of the week: School, Work, Sis has basket class, Church, 4H.

A peek into my day...

A lifelong dream to see Kenny Rogers in concert was a Christmas gift from my Mother-in-Law!

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Voyager News - December Edition

2012-01-03T15:33:00.000-08:00

~ ~ ~ SET SAIL FOR A LIFETIME OF LEARNING ~ ~ ~

December.

Christmas.

Vacation.

Weaver, Vol. 5, Chapter 9

days 21 - 30.

Life Application of Jesus.

We finished this chapter so much of our work was wrap up.

Bible lessons have been taken from Matthew, Luke & John.

In Weaver Science we have learned about different kinds of weather, including earthquakes.

Social Studies has been preparing for certain types of weather and A LOT of map study. We played a fun game called Your America which while not covering as much geography as I originally thought it would, had a lot of information in it!

They have had some creative writing assignments, painting/crafting time and for home ec they learned how to make french toast.

(and then ate alot of it because Hunny then wanted to make it daily!)

~Read Alouds~

Farmer Boy Ch.18-finish

My Side of the Mountain Ch. 15 - finish

Various Christmas stories

Photography was mostly reviewing but there were a few assignments.

We had four field trip days.

One to the woods where we wandered around and discussed evergreen trees, looked for animal tracks and wildlife and cut our Christmas Tree.

One to the Alpaca Farm for their Christmas Open House.

One outdoor homestead work day,

and one day of running scrap and visiting the Amish stores and discussing their lifestyle.

In literature, we FINALLY finished our book!

The Wedding Dress Ch 22 - finish.

Math, reading and Latin have all gone well.

Sis is enjoying Life of Fred and Hunny is making great progress reading.

We also did LOTS of baking/goodie making and had the cool experience of butchering and processing some roosters.

We had 17 school days this month.

(total - 69)

We are taking a two week Christmas break.

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2011-12-20T06:21:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...It's early morning.

Cold and dry.

I am thinking...I'm cold.

It's going to be a busy day.

What do I need to take with me?

I am thankful...For friends who care.

From the learning rooms...Wrapping up for Christmas break!

Weaver Vol. 5, Chapter 9.

Will hopefully have the chapter finished and reading books done by Friday!

In the kitchen...Coffee is done.

I think my coffee pot is leaking?!

It's only a few months old,

so I'm very upset about this,

but the last week or so the counter behind it has been wet every morning -

not damp wet,

but actually water standing there wet.

I am wearing... Black fleece with Santa, Rudolph and Snowman on it, Blue jeans, tennis shoes.

I am creating...?

I am going...To town.

I see the pulmonologist for a check up and then we are finishing up our shopping.

I am wondering...What to get everyone that is left on the Christmas list.

I am reading...The Centurion's Wife - seems pretty good, just haven't had much time for reading the past few weeks so I'm not very far in.
Farmer Boy - School - will finish by Friday

The Wedding Dress - lit - plan to finish Thursday! Yay!

Various Christmas tales

I am hoping...That we can find everything we need today and it's on sale! LOL.

I am looking forward to...Christmas.

I am hearing...The radio in the kitchen

- All I Want For Christmas Is You....

Around the house...Not much.

I am pondering... Presents.

One of my favorite things...Chocolate.

A few plans for the rest of the week: School, Work, Finishing our cookies, wrapping gifts, mailing items....

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get it!

2011-12-19T14:16:00.000-08:00

Here we are again,

struggling to figure out this weeks menu.

Monday

Breakfast - Grits, fruit available

Supper - Bean soup - spiced up with cumin, tomatoes and leftover steak.

Tuesday

Breakfast - French toast, fruit available

Supper - TBA -

Good Ole Boy and I are going out to finish shopping, haven't decided what we are providing yet....?

Wednesday

Breakfast - Bacon, eggs & toast

Supper - Duck, potatoes, green beans.

(have you ever had duck? I haven't - need to find a good recipe!)

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes, fruit available

Supper - Stir Fry.

Friday

Breakfast - Eggs and toast

Supper - Pizza.

We made cookies Saturday so we've been eating lots of junk.

Sigh.

Still have a few kinds to make - most importantly is our Christmas cookie cut outs!

I might make some sort of apple desert as our apples are starting to get wrinkly....not sure yet!

COUNTRY GIRL

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-19T14:02:00.000-08:00

Gosh, I've meant to post this for weeks now, and here we are a week from Christmas! Better share our Holiday with y'all now!

We had a nice Thanksgiving.

We anticipated a quiet day alone at home,

but experienced a not so quiet day away with friends.

The kids and guys played flag football while the moms got everything ready.

We had a wonderful time eating and visiting.

I tried sugar cream pie - which was wonderful! - I can't believe I've never heard of it before.

Yumm....

We left there and went to Wal-Mart for a Black Friday deal on a camera.

Phew!

I made our Thanksgiving meal on Friday.

Still good.

I can't believe how quickly time flies and that Christmas is SO close!

I hope that you have all had and will have a Blessed Holiday Season!

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2011-12-14T18:11:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...It's raining.

Dreary.

At least it's not freezing!

I am thinking...My kids are moving like molasses!

I am thankful... For my AMAZING husband!

From the learning rooms...Weaver Vol. 5, Ch. 9

Apparently we need to spend some time reviewing US geography...

lots of map and weather work lately.

In the kitchen...Coffee is still on.

Beans are going for dinner.

Breakfast dishes are done.

I am wearing...White fleece with snowflakes embroidered on it, Black skinny jeans, my slippers.

I am creating...Emmets coat.

I'm half done but need to measure him again so I can finish.

I am going...To clean out some of these tabs....

currently I have 11 open tabs....

And then I wonder why my computer is extra slow or crashes....

I drive my dad and Good Ole Boy crazy!

I am wondering...What kind of chickens to get?

I am reading...The Centurion's Wife

Farmer Boy

The Wedding Dress

Various Christmas tales..

I am hoping...God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...Christmas.

I am hearing...The radio in the kitchen.

Around the house...Laundry is going.

School stuff is scattered all around the living room.

I am pondering...How to get everything done that I need/want to each day?

One of my favorite things...Snuggling with a baby.

A few plans for the rest of the week: School, Scouts, Work, Shopping, Church.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get it!

2011-12-13T17:20:00.000-08:00

After majorly slacking....

I'm back to attempting my meal planning.

Here we go again -

Monday

Breakfast - Eggs & toast

Supper - Fend for self - Good Ole Boy and I are going out!

Tuesday

Breakfast - French toast

Supper - Roast Chicken, sweet potato, green beans, pear crisp

Wednesday

Breakfast - Oatmeal & Fruit

Supper - Chili

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes

Supper - Venison roast, mashed potato, carrots, pear crisp

Friday

Breakfast -Eggs and toast

Supper - Stuffed peppers

Saturday

Breakfast - Toast, cereal, fruit

Supper - Soup

So a rough look at the week.

What's on your menu?

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Womans DayBook

2011-12-07T18:55:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...It's cold and dark.

I will admit to a pretty day - the sun was shinning (for once)

but it was COLD.

I am thinking...Why do cats stick their butt in your face?!

lol. Aiden is on my lap, which I love, but geesh!

Don't love THAT end! lol

I am thankful... For the good times we have together as a family.

From the learning rooms...Weaver Vol. 5, Chapter 9.

Right now we are learning about weather.

Today we discussed snow and thunderstorms.

Learned how to make French Toast,

and had an (unplanned) art session.

In the kitchen... Dinner is almost ready.

Ham, squash, and fried potatoes.

I am wearing...P.j's, robe and slippers.

I'm tired...

I am creating...Working on grocery shopping list,

it's like old mother Hubbard around here, lol.

I am going...Tomorrow I get started on Emmet's coat! :)

I am wondering...Why kids constantly buck rules and "forget" our routine? It's not like it's new, it's been over a year!

I am reading...Up next - The Centurion's Wife by Davis Bunn and Janette Oke

Farmer Boy - School

The Wedding Dress - Lit

I am hoping...God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...Spring? lol.

I really dislike winter!

I am hearing...Kids are on the wii.

Around the house... Very Christmasy!

Just need to hang some lights and it'll be done.

I am pondering...Where in the world did the goat hoof trimmers go?!

One of my favorite things...The glow of Christmas lights.

A few plans for the rest of the week:School, work, Church....wow, slow week!

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Voyager News - November Edition

2011-12-01T18:39:00.000-08:00

~ ~ ~ SET SAIL FOR A LIFETIME OF LEARNING ~ ~ ~

November.

Hunting season.

Two Birthdays.

Thanksgiving.

Weaver, Volume 5, Chapter 9

days 9 - 20.

Life application of Jesus.

Bible lessons mostly from Matthew.

Our prayer time has been wonderful.

I love hearing my kids pray about others -

even those they have never met.

In Weaver Science we have talked about snow/avalanches, river/flooding, and various forms of weathering (erosion).

Some of our science carried over into social studies.

In Social Studies it's been alot of geography and maps.

Map searches, longitude & latitude, topographical maps and Israel.

We've used various maps on the walls, the globe, atlases, and internet for our learning.

I also have a very handy little book about maps that seems to always have a two page spread on ANYTHING I've ever wanted to cover with the girls! It's been a very helpful resource for us.

Of course, with topics like these, we've had some health and safety lessons. We've talked about staying safe in heavy snows and floods.

I had the girls make paper snowflakes to go along with the snow lessons - only to learn that the older to didn't know how?!

Snowflakes are now decorating the dinning room...

We've done a little bit with Story Starters this month in getting the girls thinking and in Wisdom Words they've done a bit of reviewing.

Home ec with Hunny has been on cracking and making eggs - review for her.

~Read Alouds~

Farmer Boy chapters 7-17

My Side of the Mountain chapters 6-14

Photography came to a short standstill when my camera died on me,

(That was my Black Friday purchase for myself! Can't live without the camera!) So we've only discussed light and Eadward Muybridge.

Chemistry has just been working with the Doo Wop Board and reviewing the Periodic Table.

Sis has had two volunteer days this month.

We've also taken more time to do homestead type jobs -

extra cleaning, fruit preservation and lately Christmas decorating.

We've been watching lots of historical shows on Netflix and having great conversations regarding Indian treaties/treatment, diseases of the day, inventions and what we take for granted and customs of the time period

(dress, food, manners, etc).

We've borrowed a few books from the Life of Fred math series for Sis to try out.

So far she seems to like it...

We've had 16 school days.

(total - 52)

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2011-11-30T07:03:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...It is sunny and cold.

I am thinking...That Bug needs to get up so we can get going on school....

I am thankful...For an amazing husband.

From the learning rooms...Weaver Vol. 5, Chapter 9.

Yesterday we learned about topographical maps and causes of weathering.

In the kitchen...Coffee.

Trying to decide what's for dinner now that I have used up all the turkey?

I am wearing...Black plaid fleece, blue jeans, tennis shoes.

I am creating...List of Christmas goodies to make.

I am going...To be herding the kids upstairs to school soon!

I am wondering...Why SO many movies have to be cluttered with nasty language?

I am reading...The Shack - hope to finish yet this week.

Farmer Boy

My side of the Mountain

The Wedding Dress

I am hoping...God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...Getting our Christmas Tree!

I am hearing...The Young Riders on Netflix.

Around the house...It's looking like Christmas!

I am pondering...Gift giving this year.

One of my favorite things...Snuggling with my girls.

A few plans for the rest of the week:Girl Scouts, Work, Getting our Tree, Seeing Santa, Christmas Parade, Visiting the Alpaca Farm, & Church.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2011-11-23T20:29:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...It is a beautiful sunny day

- just wish it was warm enough for me to enjoy it!

Bug is outside, but I think it's cold.

I am thinking...Of all left to do!

I am thankful...For so very much!

I am very Blessed indeed!

From the learning rooms...We didn't get much accomplished this week....

my new endeavor has us scrambling a bit as we learn our new routines.

Good news - we borrowed some math books for Sis to try a totally different curriculum - we'll see.

In the kitchen...Thanksgiving prep.

I have boiled three dozen eggs,

cooked and froze a pumpkin,

made three batches of pumpkin muffins....

much left to do out there today!

Taking a break looking for a pumpkin scone and pear pie recipe....

ummm, yeah, really I am!

I am wearing...MY slippers!

Red CCCB t-shirt over my ancient gray BUM sweatshirt, blue windpants and socks.

My hair is currently up in a headband wrapped like a scrunchie to try and keep hair out of the food.

Did I mention I was wearing my amazing slippers?

I have NEVER loved slippers like these!

I am creating...Lots of yummy food for tomorrow.

I am going...To start decorating for Christmas this weekend.

I am wondering...Why my camera died and how I can afford another right now?

I am reading...The Shack

My side of the Mountain

Farmer Boy

The Wedding Dress

I am hoping...God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...Bedtime!

I am hearing...Bug is doing dishes,

Sis is making cookies,

Hunny and Einstein are watching Wizards of Waverly Place on Netflix.

Around the house...It looks good.

Decorated for Thanksgiving.

I am pondering...Black Friday....

One of my favorite things...Mashed potatoes!

My favorite Thanksgiving food.

A few plans for the rest of the week:
Thanksgiving, starting my Christmas decorating, Church, School, Work.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Happy Thanksgiving!

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Halloween

2011-11-11T05:18:00.000-08:00

Halloween.

Such a touchy subject.

Although I personally have mixed feelings regarding it,

we do participate.

Here's a glimpse.

So my baby was supposed to be a cute fairy....

until we go to change and can't find the costume ANYWHERE!

Sigh.

A quick and panicked search through the costume tote produced this...

She called it (and informed each house) a "good" witch.

huh, she hasn't even watched Wizard of Oz....?

So Bug took Wiz with her....

he was SO good!

She said she was famous for all the comments, questions and pictures! lol

Sis hasn't trick or treated in a few years,
so this year asked to stay home and hand out candy.
We've NEVER passed out candy.
She had a fun time and ran out fairly quickly.
We estimated 100 visitors.
(I can't say kids, as she said some adults stopped to.
Gotta say I just don't think that's right....)
Guess next year we need more candy?

Einstein did a great job on his transformer pumpkin.
He was however,
very mad at me for not allowing him to trick or treat,
and has expressed his dislike of my decision for the past week.
Sigh.

Did you trick or treat this year?

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Womans DayBook

2011-11-03T20:02:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It is dark, lol.

Rainy and dreary earlier.

I am thinking...That I am SO HUNGRY!

Waiting for Good Ole Boy to get home for dinner.

I am thankful...For my slippers that are just so wonderfully comfortable on my tired, aching feet.

From the learning rooms...Weaver vol. 5, Chapter 9, Day 10.

Mountains.

Yesterday we made paper cutout snowflakes.

Apparently I've never taught the older girls how to make these?

Sis spray painted them after wards.

In the kitchen...Einstein is doing dishes and fighting with Hunny.

Pasties are in the oven.

Cinnamon vanilla candle burning.

I am wearing... Blue fleece hoodie with Eyeore, pj bottoms and slippers

I am creating...A "hunny do list" for Good Ole Boy.

I am going...To go to bed early tonight.

I've been so tired lately.

I am wondering...Why we suddenly have moths eating wool?

I am reading...The Shack by Wm. P. Young

Farmer Boy - school

My side of the Mountain - school

The Wedding dress - lit with Sis

I am hoping...That Einstein hurries out of this mood he's in.

Currently he is mad that I didn't let him go trick or treating so is lashing out.

I am looking forward to...The Civil War Ball on Saturday!

I am hearing...Girls have a movie on Netflix - think its Barnyard.

Around the house...Halloween decorations are coming down and Thanksgiving ones are going up.

I have almost gotten the living room deep cleaned and organized! Just a bit left to do there.

Sis has started in the dinning room and done quite a bit in the shelving wall for organizing.

I worked there out today and got some done as well.

I am pondering... How to fit in more craft time?

One of my favorite things...My new slippers!

A few plans for the rest of the week: School, Civil War Ball, Church, and work.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get It

2011-11-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

Yeah so I'm really late.

Even worse - I haven't really made a menu for the week!

Gasp.

It was a busy weekend.

So whatever.

Here's what I got...

Sunday

Lunch - picnic of pb sandwiches and doritos

Supper - ended up being $1 menu at McDonalds since we were stuck in town

Monday

Breakfast - toast

Supper - baked potatoe soup

Prep - pull chicken

Tuesday

Breakfast - Bacon and toast

Supper - chicken and veggie stir fry

Prep - soak beans

Wednesday

Breakfast - toast

Supper - Beans

Prep - soak flour, pull pastie filling

Thursday

Breakfast - pancakes

Supper - Chicken pasties

Prep - Soak oats, pull pork

Friday

Breakfast - Oatmeal

Supper - pork steak, squash...?

(So not much, but this is what I'm working with this week - at least I have some sort of plan!) and hope to do a better planning job for next!

Plan it! Don't Panic!

COUNTRY GIRL

Living for Joy Week 4

2011-10-28T05:38:00.000-07:00

Hows your week going?

I have had a very busy, but very good week!

I'm feeling very blessed.

This is the last week of the challenge,

but I hope that I will 'see' the daily reasons I have to be joyful!

Reasons I have to be happy this week:

*Got some needed things accomplished on our homestead workday.

*I HAVE a husband and kids that will help out.

*Got to go see some beautiful alpacas

AND it was a gorgeous, sunny day when we did!

*We have a great church.

*Good Ole Boy PRAYED at the 4H Banquet.

(that is NOT something he does, but he was asked and agreed!)

*We've gotten alot of school work done.

*I have a corset to wear to the Civil War ball!

AND a borrowed dress is supposed to be on its way!

*We were able to get hay that will last for awhile.

*Bug has done great in the jeopardy challenge the library had (and ended up earning $14 in points for a book of her choice),

and I did well in the parents round, lol.

*Found some awesome things at Salvation Army.

(my feet are nice and toasty in the new Eddie Baur slippers that I got there for $2!)

*Answered prayer!

*I have amazing kids and an awesome husband.

God is so good!

What I've done to love and serve others:

*Let Sis go to a friends house.

*Prayed for my friends.

*Gave some clothes Hunny had outgrown to a friend

and ran an errand for her.

*Rubbed Good Ole Boys back.

*Made tea many nights for a warm up and sleep aid

- especially for Einstein.

*Let Einstein hug me on his terms

and not complain because I was in the middle of doing something.

*Overlooked minor infractions.

Modern Alternative Mama has great post about thoughts, and how sometimes bad thoughts can be spiritual and/or physical,

definitely something to read and think about.

JOY.

When I think of joy I actually hear it sung in my head.

When I was a kid, we sang this song -

"Jesus, others and you,

what a wonderful way to spell JOY.

J is for Jesus for He has first place,

O is for others we meet face to face,

Y is for you and whatever you do -

Put yourself third and spell JOY."

What has made you joyful this week?

COUNTRY GIRL

Making Your Home a Haven

2011-10-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

Candles.

Music.

Peace.

Clutter?

Hmmmm, once again,

I used up my candle.

I've been burning,

ALOT!

So I dug out this one -

(yes, my glass is broke. My mom used to work in a candle shop and got damaged goods at very good prices. They still burn...lol)

So clutter.

Yep.

I got it.

I've been working on the living room spot as often as I've had extra time.

It hasn't been as much as I'd like.

I have made some progress though!

I took some before pictures...

but I couldn't bear to post them!

So this spot is a tv tray, filled top, under and around with various things that need sorted, repaired, filed, and pitched.

While I haven't completed the project,

I have made a large dent in the mess!

I've also done a little bit in the dining room.

Not enough,

but a bit.

This weeks challenge is to (of course)

keep going with everything we've been doing

and then

create some tender moments.

Courtney suggests things like pillow fights, classic movies, board games and back rubs.

Everyone - except Einstein - ~~likes~~ loves back rubs.

We love to watch movies,

but I know I need to work more on silliness and touch.

I know I don't give enough back rubs/ scratches.

Einstein of course doesn't like to be touched but maybe if I'm giving them out to everyone he'll allow it?

I'd like to share this quote before I go,

that Courtney had.

J.R. Miller says “The richest heritage that parents can give is a happy childhood, with tender memories of father and mother. This will brighten the coming days when the children have gone out from the sheltering home, and will be a safeguard in times of temptation and a conscious help amid the stern realities of life.”

Isn't that great?

Come check out Courtney at Women Living Well.

COUNTRY GIRL

Voyager News - October Edition

2011-10-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

~ ~ ~ SET SAIL FOR A LIFETIME OF LEARNING ~ ~ ~

Here we are already at the end of another month!

Wow, does time fly so fast!

October has been pretty busy.

This month we wrapped up Weaver Ch. 8,

days 19 - 22.

We then started Ch. 9,

Life applications of Jesus,

and we have done days 1 - 8.

Bible lessons have been taken from Matthew and Luke.

Lots of good discussions!

In Weaver science Ch. 8 we finished up by learning about non seed plants - algae and moss.

In Ch. 9 science we have been learning about Mountains - what makes a mountain, elevation/altitude, plant and animal life (especially eagles) on mountains, tree/snow lines and precipitation/the water cycle.

Sis has had a few supplement assignments so far.

For Social Studies it's been maps.

Hunny has had some lessons in map making around home,

and has learned the names/locations of 7 states where family members live and how they relate geographically to our state.

Hunny had so much fun designing a map of her room,

that she went on to map a map of the house! lol.

The older girls have worked on some geography and map skills at their level as well,

but that's been mostly review.

Weaver has had two health lessons thus far,

protecting our bodies and the use of sunscreen.

For Language Arts, they've had a story assignment,

where they had to write a story involving a river.

I left things wide open as to how to write it and got wonderful results.

Sis wrote a beautiful story in poem format and Bug wrote and illustrated a very nice short story.

They've also had a Bible word search.

We've done a bit of review work in Weaver's Wisdom Words,

and since Hunny is ALWAYS wanting to help me in the kitchen, I've pulled out a home ec book and we are going to try and do that once a week.

So far, both lessons have been review of things she knows -

nutrition and how to use a veggie peeler.

~ Read Alouds ~

Little House in the Big Woods -

from Chapter 8 on - finished.

Farmer Boy - Chapters 1 - 6

My Side of the Mountain - Chapters 1 - 5

(those chapters aren't numbered,

but I went through and numbered them myself

for ease of record keeping)

In Photography,

we have studied George Eastman, Dr. Emerson,

Margaret Bourke White, and Joe Rosenthal.

We have learned about how digital cameras work, the computers inside cameras, color, and focus.

They have had numerous assignments and have been playing with different settings on their cameras and trying out a variety of tips and suggestions.

Chemistry has slowed a bit as we've spent extra time studying quantum mechanics.

But we've played tons of games of Bingo, and a variety of other games to help comprehend quantum mechanics,

and have done lots of quizzing each other on it.

We are all done with our Latin review and will now be spending a good week on each chapter.

It's been great hearing Latin chants again through the house.

Sis and I are still plodding along in The Wedding Dress.

The lifestyle differences are such a big discussion.

I have made up a alphabet song for Hebrew,

and I can sing it!

By memory!

lol.

Sis still thinks I'm nuts, but it is helping.

We had one homestead work day,

where we worked all day around here

instead of doing 'regular' school.

Basement wall/holes into it, goat shed, cleaning, and yard stuff.

We went on one weekend field trip -

to the local Alpaca Farm.

Had a great time!

We have also been able to check out multiple wooly worms

and a few praying mantis.

We've had 20 school days this month.

(total - 36)

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2011-10-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It is dark and rainy.

I am thinking...About goats and chickens.

I am thankful...That Good Ole Boy and Bug have gotten alot of the goat shed roof done!

From the learning rooms...Weaver Chapter 9,

Day 7.

Mountains.

Hunny was reading tonight - until she realized

what she was doing, lol. Then she stopped.

In the kitchen...Dinner is put away.

Prepared a peach/apple crisp but am to tired to actually bake it

(no one would be awake to eat it and it's got to be better warm!).

I am wearing...P.J bottoms, blue fleece shirt, socks and a fleece pirate blanket.

I am creating... I am going to make fingerless gloves,

since my hands are always FREEZING!

Should I do a dark purple, medium purple with some brown zig zag accents, white or green?

Decisions!

I'm also planning on making some goat coats.

I am going...To go to bed earlier tonight!

I am wondering...Why this guy hasn't sent me a picture yet?

I found a dairy goat that I want more info on and he said he'd send me a picture...haven't gotten it.

I am reading...Farmer Boy - school

My side of the Mountain - school

The Wedding Dress - Lit with Sis

And I'll will be starting

The Confession by Beverly Lewis

I am hoping... That God continues to bless Good Ole Boys job.

I am looking forward to...A Fall Party at a friends house Friday.

I am hearing...The whirr of the computers,

Sis is playing the wii and is quite chattery.

Around the house...Added straw to the goat pen - and discovered the roof was leaking (why they are working on the roof!)

Einstein and I cleaned half the basement and piled rocks back up where the hole was.

(that half is original basement so is just rock and earth - well, and tree roots)

Been working on some indoor clutter.

Have another load ready to go to GoodWill.

I am pondering...Organization.

Healthy/traditional eating.

Self-sufficiency.

Chicken Coop Designs.

Winter.

One of my favorite things...Sleeping with the rain drumming on the window.

A few plans for the rest of the week:School, Work, Bug has Jeopardy, Run to the feed store and the Amish store, Fall party, Sis hopes to go to a friends, Bug is supposed to be going to a b-day party (better call and verify that), Church, soccer game, Sis has youth group.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get It!

2011-10-24T05:30:00.000-07:00

So I've been meal planning for over a month now.

YAY me!

I've learned that I can do this,

and it doesn't seem like such a big hassle anymore.

I've learned that by planning well,

the kids aren't always hounding for food.

(Go figure!)

They don't ask for nearly as many snacks as before.

Yay!

I'm going to be leaving lunches off the menu as we ALWAYS have leftovers, soup, salad, or sandwiches.

It just doesn't work to plan lunches for us.

Here's this weeks line up.

Sunday

Breakfast - toast

Lunch - Picnic for soccer - pb and honey sandwiches and apples

Supper - Good Ole Boy made french bread style pizza with tortilla chips and salsa con queso.

(he decided, bought and prepared, I wasn't going to complain)

Prep - pull bagels out of freezer

Monday

Breakfast - bagels & cream cheese

Supper - tonight is the 4H small animal banquet so I just need to make brownies today for that.

Prep - pull two loaves of bread and burger out of freezer.

Tuesday

Breakfast - french toast

Supper - Goulash, garlic bread

Prep - pull sausage and muffins out of freezer.

Wednesday

Breakfast - sausage "Mc"muffins/toast

(not all kids like english muffins)

Supper - Baked potato bar

Prep - soak flour, pull meat out of freezer, rolls?

Thursday

Breakfast - soaked pancakes

Supper - meat, squash, rice, broccoli, rolls?

(I still need to stop by our local grocery where we get our meat. We'll have preferably steak,

but might be pork depending on what is on sale)

Friday

Breakfast - eggs & toast

Supper - we are attending a Fall Party, we need to bring a bag of candy and a dish to pass.

We have the candy,

but I haven't decided what to make to pass yet.

Saturday

Breakfast - cold cereal, toast, fruit

Fresh fruit on hand - apples

Fresh veggies - peppers, carrots

Snack ideas - oatmeal cookies, rice krispy treats, peach crisp, veggies and dip, fruit

What's on your menu?

Plan It! Don't Panic!

COUNTRY GIRL

Living For Joy Week 3

2011-10-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a good week!

I can't complain much,

well except for Einsteins behavior last night,

which while not bad was sure treading towards not acceptable!

(and might I say EXTREMELY annoying. Sigh. Oh well, he's been doing SO well lately,

I guess he's entitled to a day full of arguing, annoyance and picking fights....?)

Anyways.

Joy.

I've had it.

Reasons I have to be happy this week:

*Good Ole Boy and I were able to go out - to our FAVORITE Chinese place for our anniversary!

*We HAD an anniversary.

*My parents were able to come watch the girls soccer game,

and they had another anniversary too!

*School has gone well.

*Overall, Einsteins behavior is good.

(he's only had 1 raging episode in 7 weeks! WOOHOO!)

*I have so much fun with the girls.

What I've done to Love and Serve others:

*Back rubs/scratches.

*Helped girls with their laundry.

*Prayed for friends.

Are you living for Joy?

Modern Alternative Mama

COUNTRY GIRL

Making Your Home a Haven

2011-10-19T20:59:00.000-07:00

Candles.

Music.

Peace.

Things have gone well this past week.

It's been a cooler week in general,

today has been cold and rainy.

Candle weather.

In fact,

I used up the French Vanilla so had to dig out another -

Pumpkin Pie.

There's just something so cozy about a candle burning.

Music.

It's been on this week, ALOT!

From Cheri Keaggy to Bob Seger,

Latin for children to Kenny Rogers.

We've been tuning in or turning it on every day.

And we've been dancing.

From whatever the kids were attempting -

to slow dancing with Good Ole Boy,

we've been having fun.

And it's been more peaceful.

SO thankful for that!

So onto this weeks challenge!

Find a spot that makes you visually stressed.

Buy something (like a basket) to help in that area.

Clean up the clutter.

Throw things away.

Check the clutter in your spiritual life as well.

Hmmm, visually stressed?

That is the WHOLE house!

Sigh.

Cleaning, purging, donating, pitching,

been doing that all year!

It's still not where I want it to be.

So no problem working there,

but this will continue to take me way longer than this challenge.

Currently, I am working:

*Upstairs - getting the kids' play area organized, pitching junk, donating things not needed, and cleaning.

I will probably need to pick up more totes or some sort for that.

*Living Room - mostly organizing here.

Now that the office is functional (still not finished though),

I need to get all my paperwork and stuff out of the living room and sorted into filing cabinets, pitched, etc.

*Master Bedroom - needs major organization here.

Other areas that constantly stress me:

*Dining Room Table

* Mud Room

*Kitchen Counter

So I've got lots to do!

lol.

Are you participating in the challenge?

I'd love to hear how it's going for you.

Want to read more?

Check out Courtney's blog.

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Womans DayBook

2011-10-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It's a cool morning and it is beginning to lighten outside.

I am thinking...The a/c unit needs to be removed and we need to get plastic to cover windows soon.

I am thankful...To have reached another anniversary.

Marriage is alot of hard work, but it's SO worth it!

I'm so thankful that I've fought for us and didn't give up.

From the learning rooms...Weaver Ch. 9.

Learning about map making and mountains.

I'm investigating some other math curriculums,

Sis is just really struggling with math,

wondering if there is a better fit for her out there?

In the kitchen...Coffee is warm, candle is flickering.

I am wearing...P.j's, mismatched and holey slippers (haven't found any new ones I like yet - such a decision!), robe and a fleece blanket.

I am creating... A peaceful home.

I am going...To continue trying to purge and organize this house.

I am wondering...How I will survive another cold winter?

I am reading...The final adversary - due today and I still have quite a bit to read!

Farmer Boy - School

The Wedding Dress - Lit

Today we'll also start My Side of the Mountain

(since we are learning about Mountains,

I thought that would be fun, I've never read it before.)

I am hoping...That God continues to bless Good Ole Boy at work.

I am looking forward to...The Civil War Ball.

I am hearing...Nothing but the computer hum, the girls are all still sleeping.

Around the house...Need to get some outside stuff done.

Will the tomatoes ever ripen?

Want to add some straw to the goat shed.

Discovered yesterday that we have a hole in the basement!

Good Ole Boy will need to address that asap, for now we put a rock over it.

(Most of our bunnies are in the basement so it's extra concerning for their safety - AND the fact that the cats like to sneak down there and the three girls aren't fixed yet. Yes, the hole is that large that they could get out. Now how did that get there?!)

I am pondering...Health.

Relationships.

Accomplishments.

Organization.

One of my favorite things...Crab Rangoons from our special Chinese place.

A few plans for the rest of the week: School, work, Girl Scouts, Bug has her Jeopardy Challenge at the library, Alpaca Farm (didn't go last time), Church, Soccer games, Youth Group for Sis, 4-H Small Animal Banquet.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing..

This was our wedding day.

We were married on my Grandparents and my parents anniversary.

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Things I've learned from Laura

2011-10-17T19:48:00.000-07:00

Little House in the Big Woods

We just finished this book last week.

It's not the first I've read it, and won't be the last!

What I've learned from Laura this time through:

*Chapter 2 Winter Days - "Ma sat in her rocking chair, sewing by the light of the lamp on the table. The lamp was bright and shiny. There was salt in the bottom of its glass bowl with the kerosene, to keep the kerosene from exploding, and there were bits of red flannel among the salt to make it pretty. It was pretty."

I've never heard of this and don't remember 'catching' it before. Thought that was really interesting. Did they really use salt?

*Chapter 4 Christmas - "One morning she boiled molasses and sugar together until they made a thick syrup, and Pa brought in two pans of clean, white snow from outdoors. Laura and Mary each had a pan, and Pa and Ma showed them how to pour the dark syrup in little streams on to the snow. They made circles, and curlicues, and squiggledy things, and these hardened at once and were candy."

Really? The girls want to try this this winter. Has anyone done this successfully?

*Chapter 10 Summertime - "Somebody must kill the calf, for cheese could not be made without rennet, and rennet is the lining of a young calf's stomach."

Hmmm. Never knew that.

Bug wants a feeder pig now. She was fascinated by the story in Chapter 1 about the pig bladder ball and the roasted pig tail! lol.

I loved the story in Chapter 6 where Ma and Laura went out to milk the cow and found "Sukey" outdoors...

I love Laura.

I loved her as a child and even more now.

I'm so glad that my kids also love her stories.

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get It

2011-10-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

A little late, but here is this weeks menu!

(that we've been following,

even though I haven't posted it)

Sunday

Breakfast - toast

Lunch - Picnic for soccer - sandwiches, plums, peppers and dip, doughnuts

Supper - out

Monday

Breakfast - Oatmeal, raspberries, toast

Lunch - leftovers, sandwich, potatoes

Supper - Salad

Tuesday

Breakfast - eggs and toast

Snack - rice krispy treats (still haven't made them yet!)

Lunch - leftovers, etc.

Supper - Chili and cornbread

Prep - pull sausage out

Wednesday

Breakfast - Sausage biscuits and gravy

Lunch - leftovers, etc.

Snack - Oatmeal cookies (didn't get made)

Supper - Veggie stir fry

Peach crisp

Prep - soak flour, pull out rolls

Thursday

Breakfast - soaked pancakes

Lunch - leftovers, etc

Supper - Chicken, potatoes, rolls

(not sure yet if I want to do pot pie, or what exactly)

Scones

Prep - Pull burger out

Friday

Breakfast - Eggs and toast

Lunch - leftovers, etc.

Supper - Tacos, refried beans, dirty rice, tortilla chips

Saturday

Breakfast - Cereal, toast, fruit

So I'm cutting back on the snacks.

They just don't seem to be asking for them.

If they do and I haven't planned I'm pushing fruit, veggies, etc.

Maybe I should try just making desserts throughout the week?

What works for your family?

Fresh fruit on hand - Banana, apples, plums, peaches.

Veggies - sweet peppers, celery, carrots.

What's on your menu?

Plan it! Don't Panic!

COUNTRY GIRL

Living for Joy Week 2

2011-10-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

I have thought about this ALL week.

I really should have started a list so that when I came here to type it up, I could REMEMBER! lol.

This challenge is great in that it has me thinking - DAILY - of good things.

Especially when I do feel like we are being attacked spiritually and there is lots of arguing, naughty behavior or loud voices.

I have SO MUCH to be thankful for!

It's also gotten me thinking of how I can reach out more to others.

This has lead me to a personal challenge of reaching out, communicating, encouraging and praying for my friends.

Reasons I have to be happy this week:

*My husband and I celebrate 14 years of marriage tomorrow.

*He brought me a little gift yesterday to say he loves me.

*We got to go to a friends house last night and had a great time visiting.

*School has gone well

*Einstein is doing well in school and at his parent teacher conference, his math teacher spoke glowingly about him.

*Einsteins 504 meeting was productive and positive.

*We have a roof over our heads to shelter us from the rains.

*Bug found a praying mantis outside.

*Good Ole Boy is still rocking the sales at work.

*We've been blessed with potatoes.

*Bug did a great job at the library's pre-teen jeopardy challenge.

*We have a credit on our cell phone bill.

*Had some one-on-one time with Bug.

What I've done to love and serve others:

*Rubbed Good Ole Boys back.

*Made acv/honey toddy's for Bug.

*Let Bug pick something for the two us to do - and did it.

*Tried to stay patient with the constant disciplining this week.

*Spent more time in prayer for my friends.

*Made some goodies that the kids enjoyed.

Modern Alternative Mama

COUNTRY GIRL

Making Your Home a Haven

2011-10-15T06:25:00.000-07:00

Candle?

Peace?

We had some days that were nice and warm and I simply wanted to be outside, so my candle wasn't lit daily.

Praying for peace - now that WAS a daily occurrence!

It's since gotten cooler.

Right now its cold and rainy outside, perfect for a candle burning inside to dispel the gloom.

I've updated my candle to French Vanilla so it even smells more like fall (versus the Peony one I had out last week).

This weeks challenge -

Play soft music your family enjoys, and

focus on maintaining peaceful relationships.

Focus on gentleness with your words and have fun with your family.

I really feel that we are under attack.

That the more we work towards a peaceful home,

the more Satan tries to disrupt us.

I've been working with lots of attitudes and behaviors this last week,

amazingly they started with this challenge.

Coincidence?

I think not.

Satan doesn't want us to have a happy, cozy, loving home.

He wants chaos and anger.

So I will be continuing with lots of prayer, and working on gentleness while having fun with my family.

Today, I'm going to look through my stack of cd's, put something on and love my family!

How about you?

Women Living Well

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2011-10-11T11:52:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It's BEAUTIFUL!

A gorgeous day, sun is shinning, warm and there's a gentle breeze.

I am thinking...I need to hurry and get outside!

I am thankful...That things seemed to go ok at Einsteins 504 meeting at school today.

From the learning rooms...In Weaver Vol. 5, Chapter 9.

Footsteps of the Master.

This will be a long chapter taking us til Christmas!

In the kitchen...Dishes are done, dinner is simple...

I am wearing...Blue jean capris and a blue seersucker button up shirt, and my aria earrings.

I am creating...Christmas ideas

I am going...To continue working upstairs.

We got started but it's taking MUCH longer than I anticipated!

I am wondering...Why I've been having so many headaches?

I am reading...The Final Adversary

Little House in the Big Woods - school

The Wedding Dress - Lit class

I am hoping...That God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...Going 'out' and spending time alone with Good Ole Boy this weekend!

I am hearing...Nothing!

It's just Bug and I home...

she is reading -

occasionally the chair will squeak

or I'll hear her smack her gum....

the washer is running,

all else is Q.U.I.E.T.

Around the house...It's looking pretty good.

Hunny and I did a great job on the front porch last week and alot of stuff has been taken care of from the back porch (aka - all the rabbit carriers were taken back downstairs!). Sis has cleaned the living room and its stayed fairly neat, I did the kitchen when we got back from the school....Dinning room could use some straightening, and of course some outside work could be done.

I am pondering...Being thankful.

Accomplishing things.

Health.

One of my favorite things...The sun.

A few plans for the rest of the week:School, Work, Soccer Practice, Shooting sports meeting, Parent teacher conferences, Library, our Anniversary, Church, Soccer Games, youth group for Sis, maybe getting together with friends.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get It!

2011-10-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

This weeks menu is made and mostly shopped for.

(still need to hit the Mennonite store since they are closed Sundays)

Sunday

Breakfast - toast

Lunch - picnic before soccer - sandwiches, apples, chips, peppers and dip, donuts

Supper - Subs

Monday

Breakfast - grits, toast

Snack - fruit

Lunch - Sandwiches

Snack - Scones

Supper - Pasties, peach crisp

(I've never made these before - only had store bought ones but LOVE them! Hope this recipe works!)

Tuesday

Breakfast - french toast, fruit

Snack - rice krispy treats (not made last week)

Lunch - leftovers, sandwich

Snack - peppers and dip

Supper - Salad, bread

Prep - pull bacon, rolls & pork out of freezer

Wednesday

Breakfast - bacon, eggs, toast

(save some bacon for dinner)

Snack - muffins (not made last week)

Lunch - leftovers, sandwich

Snack - cheese and crackers

Supper - pork steak, mac and cheese, squash, rolls and peach crisp

Prep - pull bread out for garlic bread

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes, fruit

Snack - crackers

Lunch - leftovers, sandwich

Snack - oatmeal cookies (not made last week)

Supper - Spaghetti (using spaghetti squash), sauce, extra veggies, garlic bread

Friday

Breakfast - eggs and toast

Snack - fruit

Lunch - Leftovers, sandwich

Snack - popcorn

Supper - homemade pizza

Saturday

Breakfast - cereal, toast, fruit

Lunch - leftovers, sandwich

Supper - ?

Fresh fruit on hand - Apples, bananas, plums, peaches

What's on your menu?

Plan it, Don't Panic

COUNTRY GIRL

Living For Joy

2011-10-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking how depressing my last post was,

My house doesn't feel like a haven....

Then I read a post this morning that got me -

you know, it stepped on my toes!

Honest, I try to be thankful.

And I try to serve my family without grumbling.

So let me dwell on that today.

Reasons I have to be happy this week:

* I have my husband and kids

* We got almost all of the planned school work done!

* Hunny prays with such heart, I love it.

* Sis has been doing her supplement work and doing a great job.

* The sun has been shinning and it's been warm. I have totally loved spending the afternoons outside soaking in the suns warmth.

* Hunny is a big helper. Tonight she even helped debone rabbit!

* I get hugs and kisses from my girls.

* Sis gave me a foot rub.

* Bug makes me cute drawings.

* Unexpected blessings that help us through.

* Sis and Bug won 4H county awards - I'm so proud of them!

* Good Ole Boy has been top in sales at work - he rocks!

* I've been able to get some extra work done around the house.

* We have a roof over our heads. I might not like it, but it IS better than being homeless.

* We have food in our bellies. It might not be what WE want, and yes, that means *I* have to cook it but it IS better than going hungry.

* Gas is down!

* I have my parents, and wonderful memories of my grandparents.

* I have the privilege of being able to homeschool my girls.

What I've done to love and serve others

* Read to Hunny when I was "busy".

* Cooked and did laundry when I didn't feel like it.

* Played extra games of Element Bingo when the kids asked.

* Let Hunny stay in p.j's when shes asked.

* Stayed up really late making Einstein do his French, not to be a big meanie, but because I want him to succeed and do well in school.

* Let the girls crash on the couch when they were sad over Bugs turtle dying.

Funny, we've been talking about similar things in school.

In Weaver, we have been talking about being a good steward.

How everything we have is a gift from God.

How we should be thanking God DAILY for what he has bestowed upon us.

How we are to be BLESSING others, however we can.

Are we?

AM I?

I like the concept of this challenge.

To be deliberate in our thanksgivings,

AND

in our servings.

Modern Alternative Mama

COUNTRY GIRL

Making Your Home a Haven - 2011 Challenge

2011-10-05T18:49:00.000-07:00

Week 1's Challenge:

Light a candle everyday in your home.

Every time the candle catches your eye,

say a prayer for Peace in your home.

I also did this challenge last year.

Looking back, I see many of the same challenges I face today.

I want my home to be a peaceful haven.

A shelter.

A cozy (CLEAN) den full of love.

I will say it's better,

but it's not where I want it to be.

In fact, tonight has been full of screaming kids,

raised voices and arguing.

My head is pounding and I feel anything but relaxed and peaceful.

Looks like I've got lots of work to do.

I currently have a Peony Candle on my stove,

but I need to get out something more fallish.

Are you taking part in Courtney's Challenge?

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2011-10-04T20:39:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It is a very dark night.

It's been getting much colder - fall is here...

Days have been nice lately so I've been hitting the yard and soaking the suns warmth up while I can!

I am thinking...How wonderful my feet feel after Sis rubbed them!

I am thankful...That Hunny's breathing test went so well today.

(it was 49% in January - today 81%)

From the learning rooms...We are wrapping up Weaver Vol.5, Chapter 8 this week!

We have enjoyed learning about the parables of Jesus, and it's been really cool that Sis has heard the same ones during youth group.

We've had a good time studying.

In the kitchen...I need to get the beans rinsed and soaking for tomorrow.

In the process of cleaning/reorganizing my pot and pan shelf.

I NEED to schedule a day to work on my cast iron....

I am wearing...Halloween sweatshirt and black skinny jeans.

I am creating...Christmas ideas....

I am going...To work upstairs this week.

We will be down to just Bible lesson, prayer time and read aloud for morning school so we will be working on purging, cleaning and organizing some of the upstairs.

Sis hopes to paint the lounge and hall,

we'll see how much we get done.

I am wondering...About Einsteins school and his 504...

I am reading...Angel of the Outback

Who Wore What

The Final Adversary

(Ack! Special request in from the library and I only have 2 weeks and can't renew...I wasn't ready for it)

Little House in the Big Woods - school

The Wedding Dress - Lit with Sis

I am hoping...God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...Starting our new Weaver Chapter.

I am hearing...Sis and Good Ole Boy laughing.

Good Ole Boy has something on Netflix - sounds car related.

Around the house...I've started my fall decorating.

Saturday we picked up 6 pumpkins and 5 cornstalks that we placed around the house.

Yesterday Hunny and I cleaned the front porch and got alot of cobwebs down - except for the ones containing two GINORMOUS spiders! ICK!

I still need to spend time outside taking down summer things.

I am pondering... How to get everything done that I want and need to accomplish each day?

One of my favorite things...The smell of 'fall'.

Sunday we were at the park and walking under the trees -

I don't know if its the trees themselves, the leaves, the acorns....

but it's a wonderful, earthy smell.

A few plans for the rest of the week: School, Work, 4H Banquet, Grocery Shopping, Church, Soccer Games, Youth group for Sis.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Sis went to Homecoming with her friend last weekend.

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get it!

2011-10-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well we are officially over budget.

Sigh.

So I ran in and only bought butter and eggs today,

the rest of the week will be using what we have on hand.

Hmmm....

After looking through the pantry and freezer,

it really only looks to impact breakfast and snacks the most.

Bummer, but we won't starve and a week of boredom or repetition won't kill us. (Although the kids may act like it! lol.)

This weeks line up

Sunday

Breakfast - Fruit

Lunch - Picnic for soccer - Sandwiches, fruit and veggies with dip

Supper - Leftover Lentil Soup

Monday

Breakfast - Oatmeal and fruit

Snack - Crackers

Lunch - Leftover soup and/or sandwich

Snack - Veggies and dip

Supper - Stir Fry - Rice, cabbage, peppers, tomatoes, broccoli and cauliflower

Tuesday

Breakfast - Grits (fruit available)

Snack - Fruit

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Graham Crackers

Supper - Pork Steak and broccoli

Wednesday

Breakfast - Eggs and toast

Snack - Muffins

Lunch - Leftovers, sandwich or soup

Snack - Fruit

Supper - Bean soup (meatless)

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes

Snack - Fruit

Lunch - Leftovers, sandwich or soup

Snack - Rice Krispy treats (didn't get made last week)

Supper - 4H Banquet

Friday

Breakfast - Toast and fruit

Snack - Oatmeal Cookies

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Popcorn

Supper - Rabbit Stew

Saturday

Breakfast - Cereal, oatmeal, toast or fruit

Snack - Fruit

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Veggies and dip

Supper - Haven't decided yet

Fresh Fruit on hand - Apples and Peaches.

I'll probably make some sort of peach dessert this week.

Cobbler was a huge hit but I'm looking for something else that sounds yummy to try.

What's on your menu?

Have you checked out the menu challenge yet?

Plan it, Don't panic!

COUNTRY GIRL

Photo Challenge - Something wet

2011-10-01T07:14:00.000-07:00

As I sit here thinking about this final summer photo challenge, I'm thinking -

It definitely doesn't feel like summer anymore!

So sad that it's over, but here's some wet water memories.

Cooling off after our 4H clubs petting zoo for Special Olympics.

~June~

Fathers Day Cook out at the park

Bug's Birthday at the Lake

~July~

~August~

Do you have lots of water memories from this summer?

Check out Creative 2X Mom.

COUNTRY GIRL

The Civil War 2011

2011-09-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

Just a few weeks ago was our local Civil War Muster.

While we haven't joined a group yet, we all participated as walk ons.

We had SO much fun!

Here are a few pictures of the weekend.

Good Ole Boy was offered a chance to set off the Confederates cannon! Can you tell he was super excited?!

Looking forward to doing more of this!

COUNTRY GIRL

Peach Cobbler

2011-09-29T20:55:00.000-07:00

We have gobs of peaches!

The softest ones I wanted to use up straight away.

So Sunday I made my first peach cobbler.

Ever.

Crust:

4 Cups flour

1/2 pound butter; chilled and cut into small pieces

1 cup shortening (chilled, although I don't know why?)

1/2 teaspoon salt

7 Tablespoons ice water (ok, I admit it - I guessed and it was tap)

To prepare the crust: Place the flour, butter, shortening and salt into a bowl. Using a pastry blender cut the butter into the flour. Add the water a bit at a time. Refrigerate an hour.

Preheat oven to 375'.

Using half the dough, press it into the bottom and sides of a 9x13 pan.

Filling:

10 cups (which was about 10 peaches) peeled, pitted and sliced peaches

3 Tablespoons lemon juice

1 Cup sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 Cup flour

Prepare the filling: Gently toss the peaches and lemon juice together in a bowl. Add remaining ingredients and toss again.

Spoon filling onto bottom crust.

Taking small chinks of dough I squished them and fit them around the top of the filling, leaving spaces for steam vents.

(ok, I was supposed to roll it out on a floured board.....blah blah to much work, squish it and make a puzzle was easier! lol)

Flute the edges together if you can.

Bake for 1 1/4 - 1 1/2 hours or until golden and bubbly.

Then we sprinkled brown sugar on the top as it cooled.

Oh this was yummy!

Wish I would've had some vanilla ice cream.

COUNTRY GIRL

Voyager News - September Edition

2011-09-28T16:47:00.000-07:00

~ ~ ~ SET SAIL FOR A LIFETIME OF LEARNING ~ ~ ~

We started out our school year with our local homeschool groups Kick Off event.

A fun event that takes place at an area park,

Kick Off is a laid back picnic event.

Families eat, play and catch up with each other,

while meeting new friends.

We began back to school needing to finish the chapter we quit in the middle of. (not my intent to end there, but it happened)

So we are in Weaver Chapter 8 -

The Parables of Jesus.

We do Weaver about 3 days a week.

This month we've done days 12 through 18.

Most of our Bible lessons have been taken from Matthew and Luke.

We've had some pretty good discussions about the meanings of these parables.

I love discussing with my kids!

In Weaver science we've reviewed photosynthesis, and gone in depth into flowers and seeds,

even dissecting a seed pod.

Sis of course has extra supplement work to do digging even deeper into some topics.

She has done an amazing job!

Going above and beyond what was even assigned to her.

This chapter also includes Money Management.

Really stressing how EVERYTHING is God's, on loan to us...

How we should be helping others,

giving to them...

and being faithful in the little things given to us before we will be entrusted with more.

Wow.

There is really alot to learn here!

~ Read Alouds ~

From the Mixed up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler - finished the final 2 chapters.

Little House in the Big Woods - have read Chapters 1 - 7.

In photography we have been learning about its early history.

We've been memorizing quotes that go along with the lessons -

todays was "A picture is worth a thousand words",

and they've been learning words that relate to the art.

The people we've studied thus far -

Niepce, Daguerre and Fox Talbot and how they have influenced photography with their inventions.

They have done a few sketching and photography assignments,

as we learn about their equipment, and some lighting basics.

Now chemistry has been a HUGE hit!

After learning about the history of chemistry and exactly who can be a scientist, we've had fun assignments, games and labs.

They absolutely LOVE element bingo and beg to play it daily.

It's REALLY helping them to learn their periodic table.

The labs are FUN and very hands on!

We begun the year reviewing Latin.

Sis and I picked up where we ended in Lit - which is with reading The Wedding Dress by Marian Wells.

The story is set in a Mormon community so we've had lots of very good discussions.

While we haven't made it real far in Hebrew we (meaning ***I***) have been trying to learn the alphabet.

We have gone on one field trip thus far,

to our local Civil War Muster.

We've had 16 school days this month.

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-09-28T04:13:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... It is a beautiful fall day.

Cool, crisp and semi sunny,

leaves are changing into a splendid display of colors.

I am thinking... What could we make to help offset the cost of reenacting?

I am thankful... For life.

From the learning rooms... Dissecting bean seeds this week.

In the kitchen... Water is on for dinner.

I am wearing... Black t-shirt hoodie, Blue windpants and tennis shoes.

I am creating... Mental lists of projects to do.

Mittens, purses, lip balm, scarves....

would love to learn how to do socks.....

I am going... To be more caring?

In Weaver we've been talking about being good stewards with what God has given us.

Which also means that what we have - isn't ours.

And we need to give to others.

So while I'm not sure 'caring' is exactly the right word,

it's what I need to be.

Do I care enough about others to notice their needs?

How can I help?

I am wondering... How we will survive winter's bills?

I am reading... Angel of the Outback - its a really good book and I AM reading daily, but it seems to be taking me FOREVER!

Little House in the Big Woods - school

The Wedding Dress - Lit with Sis

I am hoping... God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to... Going back to the Amish store!

I am hearing...Bug bawling because she found her outside cat - Copper - that has been AWOL for about 3 months (or more).

Around the house... I've gone through the sock pile on the dryer and matched many pairs. I've swapped Hunny's summer clothes for winter ones and put anything that won't fit her next year into a box to get rid of. I've been working on packing civil war items into a tote so they are handy and in one place.

I am pondering... Garfields new desire to constantly escape?

I'd leave him outside, but he attacks our outside cats.

Sis worries that he will hurt her Lucky,

who is old and declawed.

Suggestions?

One of my favorite things... A snuggly kitty.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Soccer practice, School, Work, Alpaca Farm day (* I hope*), Church, and Soccer games.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get it!

2011-09-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

Another great week of meals that went well.

While I still don't LIKE planning, shopping, and putting away (sigh)

I do like knowing in advance what to make and delegating as I can.

(can you say Home Ec for Sis? haha)

Here is this weeks line up -

Sunday

Breakfast - toast

Lunch - Sandwiches, chips, apples - picnic because of soccer games

Supper - Cabbage soup - if I think of it, I'll post the recipe this week.

Desert - Peach cobbler (WOW!)

Monday

Breakfast - Bagel with cream cheese and fruit

Snack - pretzels

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Fruit

Supper - Sis asked to make Meatloaf, mashed potatoes

Tuesday

Breakfast - French toast (sticks?) and fruit

Snack - Crackers (Einstein has Dr apt so portable snack)

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Veggies and dip

Supper - Tuna "helper" (my concoction) easy for soccer night

Wednesday

Breakfast - Sausage and toast

Snack - Strawberry muffins

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Pudding? Jello?

Supper - Lentil soup with roasted tomatoes and french bread with oil for dipping

(soup recipe found here)

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes and fruit

Snack - Applesauce

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Cookies

Supper - Pork Roast, mashed potatoes OR pasta

Friday

Breakfast - Eggs and toast

Snack - Rice Krispy treat

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Fruit

Supper - Chicken Enchiladas

(recipe here)

Saturday

Breakfast - Cold cereal, toast, fruit, etc.

Supper - Steak, potatoes OR pasta, broccoli

*not planning for day time as we have an event I hope to attend*

Fresh fruit on hand this week - Apples, peaches, and plums.

I've learned that the kids usually don't ask for snacks during school hours so we often aren't using both I plan for, but I think I'll still plan on them so I know I have things on hand, most I can plug into next weeks menu.

What's on your menu?

Plan It, Don't Panic!

COUNTRY GIRL

Photo Challenge - Summer Color

2011-09-23T20:09:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the colors of summer.

The brilliant blue sky with big, fat, puffy, bright white clouds...

The glorious blaze of the sunset...

The dazzling turquoise of the water glinting with the sun...

The gorgeous John Deere Fields...

John Deere Fields?

Yes, the deep, inviting green grass covered with the sunny yellow dandelions.

I didn't use to feel this way.

But then I had kids.

My kids LOVE dandelions.

I remember when they were little,

we were driving, and they pointed out a yard.

"Mom, isn't that just beautiful?!

Look at ALL those dandelions!"

lol.

It touched me in that special way that only a childs words can.

Since then, I think of the John Deere Fields.

Green and yellow.

The colors of Summer.

They ARE beautiful.

And they remind me of how fleeting childhood is,

and the need to enjoy the little things.

I didn't have a decent picture of a John Deere Field,

you'll have to pretend this is full of yellow dandelions!

Come over to Creative 2X Mom and see what she's been photographing this summer.

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-09-23T19:31:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It's dark, and cold.

I am thinking... I'm tired and need to go to bed.

But I feel badly that I haven't been on here all week!

I am thankful...That I have great parents.

From the learning rooms...We are having fun.

Learning about stewardship in Weaver which includes botany and money management.

We are reviewing Latin, and having a great time with chemistry.

In the kitchen... Not much right now except for those nasty flies.

I made a great dinner (IMHO!) of pork steak, butternut squash, mashed neeps and potatoes, and turnip greens. MMMM wonderful.

I also started a baggie of pork bones that I stuck in the freezer until I get enough to try and make broth.

I am wearing... Red CCCB t, blk sweatpants and socks.

I am creating... I am ATTEMPTING to print off student ID cards from the Homeschool Buyers Coop.

Sis is planning on going to Homecoming with a girlfriend and I think she needs a student ID.

It doesn't want to load her picture onto the ID card!

I was successful in making one for myself and Bug, but no luck so far in Hunny or Sis.

I am going... To learn how to sew!

I am wondering...What to do about these nasty flies?!

Anyone else dealing with them?

I'm not having success getting rid of them but I do NOT want to resort to chemicals.

I am reading... Angel of the Outback.

Little House in the Big Woods in school.

The Wedding Dress in literature with Sis.

I am hoping... That God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to... The Civil War Ball!

I am hearing... Good Ole Boy snoring on the couch, and Family Ties is playing on Netflix.

Around the house...Cleaned the goat pen yesterday, got it scraped down to the cement for the last time before snow.

I am pondering... Next weeks menu as I will be going shopping tomorrow.

One of my favorite things...The smell of a campfire.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Bug goes hunting this weekend for the first time!, groceries, church, soccer games, work, and school.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL

Come and Get it!

2011-09-19T11:37:00.000-07:00

Last weeks meals went very well.

No huge complaints or issues, yay!

I was able to hit the stores Friday to prepare for this week,

even though we had a REALLY busy weekend!

Sunday

Was a different kind of day

because of our activities with the C.W. Muster.

We made eggs for breakfast,

grabbed some cold chicken and biscuits to eat while in character for lunch,

and had YUMMY potatoes and pork given to us by the Confederate artillery for supper.

I had apples, crackers and tortilla chips available for snacks.

(the crackers were eaten out of a burlap bag -

sometimes ya gotta bend for little ones....

and the chips were for AFTER the event

while we were chatting during tear down)

Monday

Breakfast - Oatmeal with blueberries (frozen)

Snack - Toast with cinnamon and sugar

Lunch - Leftovers - tuna noodle, potatoes and pork or Sandwiches

Snack - Veggies and dip

Supper - Tonight we have a 4H meeting that is potluck.

The club is providing chicken, potatoes and beverages and so I am bringing corn

Tuesday

Breakfast - Eggs and toast

Snack - Applesauce

Lunch - Sandwich

Snack - Banana bread

Supper - Chili and cornbread

(didn't end up making this last week as planned)

Wednesday

Breakfast - Sausage biscuits and gravy

Snack - Fruit

Lunch - Leftovers or Sandwich

Snack - Cookies (didn't end up making last week)

Supper - Stir fry - Chicken, Cabbage, veggies, rice

Thursday

Breakfast - Pancakes with berries (frozen)

Snack - Frozen yogurt sandwiches (didn't make last week)

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Crackers

Supper - Veggie spaghetti *meatless*

Friday

Breakfast - Eggs - burritos if desired

Snack - Fruit

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Veggies and dip

Supper - Pork Chops, potatoes

Saturday

Breakfast - Cold Cereal or toast

Snack - yogurt

Lunch - Leftovers

Snack - Fruit

Supper - Something with burger....haven't decided yet!

Fresh fruit available this week - Apples, bananas, watermelon, grapes & plums.

You might have noticed I didn't do everything planned last week - I'm ok with that. When that happens I plan on just putting it in the next weeks line up.

How's your menu look this week?

Plan it, don't Panic!

COUNTRY GIRL

The Simple Woman's DayBook

2011-09-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It is very dark. lol.

It was a fairly nice fall feeling day,

however as evening approached the temps REALLY dropped!

It was probably mid 60's?

I am thinking... Of schedules and craziness.

I am thankful... For good times.

From the learning rooms... Things are starting to shape up well.

There are still a few things I need to work back into our schedules but we are getting off to a good start.

We are wrapping up the chapter that never got finished in June.

In the kitchen...Only partially cleaned.

Earlier we had the no water issue - stupid pump.

Then when Einstein was trying to do dishes, the rinse side of the sink clogged up and Good Ole Boy hasn't gotten that fixed yet (motorcycle issues and since he needs to take that to work tomorrow.....he's in the garage and dishes are sitting til tomorrow)

I am wearing...A grey t with Pac Man on it that says Love your enemies, pj pants and socks.

I am creating...Starting to think about next weeks menu plan.

I am going...To be gathering Plantain tomorrow.

I plan to make some infused oil like this

and some salve like this.

I've never tried anything like that before so it'll be a new experience for me!

I am wondering...

I am reading...Angel of the Outback by Patricia Hickman

31 Days to Clean

The Wedding Dress in Lit

Little House in the Big Woods - school read aloud

I am hoping...That God provides Good Ole Boy with a better job.

I am looking forward to...The Civil War Muster this weekend!

I am hearing...Only the computer whir.

Around the house...Kinda scattered.

Dining Room table has Good Ole Boys uniforms dumped on them.

You heard about the kitchen...

Living Room is unorganized since we got back and hustled to get dinner and then kids to bed and I haven't gotten to it yet.

I am pondering...Things. Just things.

Soccer practice twice a week, how are we going to go down and get those rabbits and cages for Sis, when can we make it to the beach, wanting to do more stuff outside and in the garage.

My thoughts are rambling and tumble from one to the other.

One of my favorite things...Spending time with my girls.

A few plans for the rest of the week: School, shooting sports leader banquet/meeting, work, and Civil War Muster.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

COUNTRY GIRL