Sing of His Mercies

Luke is 13!

2012-01-28T19:18:00.003-06:00

Our first born is now a wonderful young man of 13.

We had a great day. As with all birthday kids, he chose the menu for the day.

Breakfast was sausage, egg and cheese biscuits and homemade doughnuts.

After breakfast, he opened his gifts. he got 22's, money, and Butterfingers

We went to the Y for our water class. then ran some errands. We stopped in at Dillons and got some crab legs for the birthday boy.

Lunch was pita sandwiches and chips
Dinner was meatloaf, shredded potato casserole, green beans,and cheddar biscuits.

For a cake he chose a two layer giant cookie cake with cream cheese icing.

Last Day to be 12

2012-01-27T10:49:00.003-06:00

Our first born turns 13 tomorrow. When he was born he had such long fingers. Everyone who came to visit that first day said, "He is going to be tall."

I think I am still taller by a hair! I know he will soon be towering both his Dad and me before it is all said and done.

Growing up

2012-01-10T07:19:00.003-06:00

Nathan lost his first tooth yesterday! It had been wiggly for a few days. The night before he ate an apple and that really loosened it up.

I came in from the clothes line and he held up his prize. Look Mom! I pulled it out myself!

Birthday Fun

2011-12-05T20:07:00.004-06:00

Today is Nathan and my birthday!

Yes, we share the same birthday. He was God's gift to me on my 31st birthday.

Brian is out of town and sadly missed our special day. But, he gave me a wonderful wake up call this morning, texted throughout the day and called again this evening.

The boys made us each a cake, decorated themselves.

This evening, Nathan and I went to Red Robin for our free Birthday burgers. On Monday nights they have a balloon man who makes all kinds of balloon shapes for the kids. Can you tell what he made for Nathan?

It is a monkey on a tree!

What can beat a birthday cheese burger and fries?

An ice cream Sundae, that's what!

On Our Own

2011-11-29T14:01:00.002-06:00

We dropped Brian off at the airport this morning for his flight back to NC. It will be three loong weeks until we see him again.

I am hoping to use this time wisely and keep up the momentum with school and finish the semester well. I also have at least a dozen different lists in my head I need to transfer to paper so I don't forget anything.

The boys and I are so excited about getting ready for our big journey the week before Christmas to pick up Brian in NC and then all of us head down to FL to spend time with my parents! (Hence all the lists!)

Here are just a few of the things I need to organize and not forget.

1. Christmas cards and gifts to put in the mail.
2. Travel food to buy and make.
3. Packing for 5 people for 2-3 different seasons. The temperature will warm up as we go and cool down as we return.
4. Arranging a hold on the mail.
5. Shutting down the house.
6. Don't know what else, but I'm sure it will come to me.

So now you know what I will be doing in the next few weeks.

Leat

They Listened!

2011-11-02T07:16:00.002-05:00

The other night we were driving home from candy gathering and spotted the Sonic sign. Corndogs $.50 that night only. Cheap food, always hungry boys? We pulled in. Ordered up 6. They brought out the bag. There were 7 inside. Caleb noticed first. He said we need to tell them. Brian and I said to go ahead. He suddenly got shy. So Jacob took it and went inside to tell them of the mistake and return it. They said go ahead and keep it. So we each got an extra bite, passing it around the table.

I harp and harp on being honest. No such thing as a little white lie, etc. Even if for convenience. Rules are rules. But not only that, we want to do what is RIGHT and honors God.

Caleb knew not telling would be the same as stealing.

We didn't have to say anything. But he wanted them to know.

Proud that the boys listen and want to do what is right, even when it would be easier to keep quiet.

Colorado Adventure Day 6

2011-09-02T10:03:00.007-05:00

Woke to our first morning in Woodland Park. We made pancakes for breakfast, cleaned up and then headed to Diamond Campground to spend the day with Grandpa. Once there, we packed a picnic lunch and drove out to a couple land sites Grandpa was looking at. Then we headed to Manitou Springs to make our train up Pikes Peak.

It was an hour + ride up.

40 minutes at the peak and visiting the gift shop. They have a special doughnut recipe they make for such a high altitude. they sell for .99 each or 6 for $5. Bri bought a bag. they were tastey! Everything else in the shop was waay overpriced! Even the other food was outrageous. But they do have to haul everything 14 miles up the mountain. As we were leaving to load up to come back down, it started hailing tiny pieces of ice. Back down the mountain it became sunny and warm! We started with all the windows down but the closer to we got to the top the colder it became. Very glad we all brought sweat shirts and jackets!

Then another hour + ride down.
Nathan was so excited about this train ride! It just plumb wore him out. his head started bobbing. I tried to hold him so he could sleep more comfortably. He kept saying, "I'm not tired!" Ha! I have proof otherwise.

Back at Diamond, we grilled chicken and zucchini and had baked potatoes and salad for dinner. Back to our campground for a good night's sleep!

Colorado Adventure Day 7

2011-09-02T09:23:00.007-05:00

Friday morning we fixed breakfast at Diamond, packed a picnic lunch and headed to Buena Vista for our Rafting Adventure on the Arkansas River. We were so excited!

Nathan was too small to go, so he and Grandpa had their own adventure together. They found an ice cream store and then went to a fish hatchery. Nathan was happy to get to feed the fish!

Our time on the river was so much fun! We had a great guide who amazingly enough is from Andover! We told him about our little canoe/kayak business and he knew right where we lived from last years sign! Crazy!

When we started hitting the rapids, the guide, Zach, asked Caleb is he wanted to ride the bull. That meant, Caleb would sit up front with his legs hanging over, holding onto a rope. He did and had a great time! Then Jacob wanted to try. He didn't have a good hold on the rope,and soon went overboard! Bri pulled him back in, everyone laughing! Towards the end, all of the boats beached at a certain spot and those who wanted to, climbed up Jump Rock, 10-12 feet above the water, and you guessed it, jumped off into the frigid cold water below. We all jumped. Even cautious me! I knew if I didn't I would always regret it. Luke and Caleb even jumped twice. At the very end was called swimmers rapid. those who wanted could body surf over the rapids then get pulled back into the boat. Luke, Jacob and Bri did it. It was a little too bumpy for them, but they survived. All in all it was an amazing time!

During our rafting, the guide told us about a small ghost town nearby,and thought the boys would get a kick out of it, so we headed that way once we returned from rafting.

It is a little town called St. Elmo. It was originally a mining town right on the river up in the mountains. It is basically a one street town of old buildings and boardwalks. There is an open gift shop and they are renovating a building into a bed and breakfast. Four wheelers love to drive in and go through the town. What makes it especially fun is the chipmunks! You can buy a bag of seeds and literally feed them from your hand. Unfortunately, my camera battery died so I don't have pictures. :( But we ate our picnic on the board walk
and roamed up and down.

That day was also Grandpa's birthday, so back in town we took him out for Chinese and an ice cream cone for dessert.

Colorado Adventure Day 8

2011-09-02T08:37:00.006-05:00

Our last full day in Colorado! Waahh! We spent the morning hanging around Diamond Campground. Kids played at the play ground, took showers, sat and visited with Grandpa. Lunch was a hogde podge of leftovers so we wouldn't be dragging so much food back home.

Then we loaded up in Grandpa's Pilot and went in search of a Rock Shop. Caleb is mildly obsessed with rocks and Bri had told him we would find a neat shop for suveniers. Found a great shop with most everything 1/2 off and pretty cheap to begin with. Caleb chose a carved shark and arrowhead. Nathan chose a whale after much deliberation. Jacob got a split geode and Luke chose a large polished geode half. Everyone was very happy.

Back in town, Bri had seen a wine tasting sign at a local store. We tried to go but it had been canceled. So we went to another place and shared a pint and giant pretzel. The beer was pretty nasty compared to New Belgium in Ft. Collins. But a fun mini-date nonetheless.

Back at Diamond, Grandpa grilled burgers for dinner. Bri and his dad talked awhile and then we had to say our goodbyes.

Early the next morning we made pancakes once more then broke camp and loaded up for the long drive back to KS. Coming down from Woodland Park to Colorado Springs the temperature increased 20*! Everyone was pretty bummed to be leaving beautiful Colorado!

A Pert Near Perfect Weekend

2011-08-15T08:09:00.005-05:00

We went camping at Toronto Lake this past weekend. I was our third and best time.

The first time we camped there, our kayaks got stolen! They were recovered, undamaged about a month later. The second time was good except for the LOUD drunks pulling into camp with their music blaring in the middle of the night.

But this time, was as close to perfect as you can get.

We rolled in late afternoon on Friday. There was absolutely no one else in the entire tent camping area, so we got a great spot in a shady area right next to the good shower house. I say the good one because there are two. The other one down by the beach is one of those open air affairs.

We set up camp, paid our fee, and went for a hike. Back at camp we had sandwiches for dinner.

The only down side is that there was a burn ban due to the drought this summer, so no cheery camp fire. That night we had a wonderful thunder storm! We were prepared so it was nice to just lay in our tent listening to the water patter and thunder rumble.

Saturday morning dawned cool and beautiful! The sun shade had partially blown over, but was soon straightend back up. After a breakfast of english muffin egg sandwiches, Brian took the older three boys canoeing and Nathan and I went for a hike. Back for a lunch of chili dogs and just hanging out. We got ready for the real reason we were there that weekend.

A WTM computer friend who just lives about an hour away from us, had messaged me a couple months ago about a float trip for their youth group. The group was set to arrive around 2pm. So we took the canoes down to the docks and tied them up. When they arrived it was so nice to meet in person someone you have never met but feel you know because of common interests and friends on the net. A funny side note, Brian had met her already! They went to school together way back when. And She was good friends with one of my Sister-in-laws as young girls. such a small world!

So we got the men and youth on their way in the canoes, and went to the beach with the moms and kids. Later, they graciously shared their snacks with us before heading back to town.

For dinner, we made hamburgers and salad. Everyone took a much needed shower and went to bed.

Sunday morning was another beautiful cool start to the day. We had breakfast burritos and coffee cake. The kids and Bri went for a walk and I enjoyed a little quiet down time. When they got back we went on a family canoe trip on the Blue Water Trail. After that we broke camp, had lunch and headed back home.

Defenders

2011-08-05T21:20:00.002-05:00

Today at the Y a little kid was trying to steal Nathan's toy skate board that he likes to throw and then dive for in the water. I took the toy so the kid couldn't get it.

Later on the boys were in the family room and the kid attacks Nathan for the same toy! Nathan did not do anything to this kid. Nathan gave the toy to Jacob so the kid would leave and then the kid slaps him two times on the cheek! Jacob broke it up. Then the kids mom came up and took care of him and apologized to Nathan.

I am proud of Nathan for not fighting back and proud of Jacob for stepping in to defend his brother.

We have kept the boys in a pretty small fish bowl and now some of the world is seeping in. We really need to continue praying for wisdom in training them up in the way they should go.

Leat

Green Tea and Answered Prayer

2011-07-29T07:28:00.004-05:00

I have been feeling overwhelmed with pretty much everything lately. Getting the new school year up and running, watering my burned up garden, hoping at least the cukes will keep looking good and start producing, I could go on and on.

This morning I chose green tea instead of my usual cup of coffee. It is supposed to increase metabolism and just be healthier. After Brian walked out the door for work, I just had such a heaviness in my chest. I got the sprinklers going and came in and opened my Bible. After reading a few chapters, I got out my notebook and started writing. For some reason writing my prayers instead of just saying them in my head seems to help. I hadn't done that for a while, and it felt so good just to pour my heart out to God!

Releasing everything back to Him and maybe the energy from the green tea, I feel so energized! I sure need it today! It is grocery shopping day and then we come home and unload, then pack a cold dinner and head to the Y!

I wasn't reading in Jeremiah this morning, but after a text from Brian, I was trying to remember the reference to the For I know the plans I have for you verse. 29:12 popped into my head and so I looked it up. It seemed just as fitting if not more.

Jeremiah 29:12 Then ye shall call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will harken unto you.

Patience and a Plan

2011-07-27T10:22:00.003-05:00

That is what I need.

We are on day two of school and Caleb alone is a full time job.

He is having melt downs about copy work. Melt downs about all of his work.

That is why I need patience! Now to figure out a plan.

I need to get his schedule set and not move away from it.

I need to make sure he has a decent protein filled filling breakfast.

I need to let him take short breaks.

I need to pray for him. For all of my guys.

I need to give him time for his creative outlets; drawing and painting.
* note to self: buy him more tape and art paper.

That's all I can think of for now.

Leat

Day One

2011-07-26T13:44:00.002-05:00

Everyone has completed their first day of the new school year. I am tired. It went pretty well. I do need to make some adjustments. Mostly more prep work on my part.

Instead of writing in the workbooks, I copy most of the assignment into notebooks for Jacob and Caleb. This way we can pass down the books and not have to buy so much each year.

Nathan did super on his Kindergarten work! I need to up his load a bit. He blew through his work way to fast, and then was distracting the others.

Caleb needs more 1 on 1 time with me. He is a slower learner. BUT that is fine. I am thankful to be the one to teach him!

Jacob is doing well. Stepping up a bit and doing more work independently.

Luke is back in the books this year after SOS last year. It is a bigger work load but he is up for the challenge.

I am glad we started early. I'll need the extra time to get all of the kinks worked out. Mainly time management to help everyone as needed but not run myself ragged!

Leat

Early Start

2011-07-25T15:42:00.002-05:00

We are hoping to get school started...tomorrow!

We have had an extremely hot summer and it is not letting up any time soon. I'm talking 100+ degrees EVERY DAY with no break. We joined the YMCA in early June and have certainly taken advantage of the wonderful water park. But when we are not there we end up watching too much tv and having too much computer time, which leads to fussy kids and a cranky mom.

So I figured we should go ahead and start school. It will keep us focused and busy. I am praying we can get a good schedule worked out and stay consistent with it. All 4 boys will be hitting the books!

I am excited and the boys are too. We'll see how long that lasts!

Leat

When the Cats Away...

2011-07-19T18:53:00.003-05:00

The mice will PLAY!

Brian is away this week for work conferences. The boys and I have had a busy first two days!

After dropping Bri off at the airport early Monday morning we went to visit my grandparents. My Mom is in town and we haven't gotten to see her very much. We spent the entire day then Mom took us all out for dinner.

Today, we spent the morning and early afternoon with Bri's sister and her two boys. We met at their house then went to the sprinkler park in Riverside. All six boys had a blast playing in the water! Back at the house we had lunch and the kids went out to play. A couple minutes later they came running back in with a screaming Nathan. He had gotten stung 2x! by wasps. Once above his right eyebrow and once on the back of his head! After that we went downstairs to watch the boys play wii. They've decided the golf is pretty fun! So funny to watch them!

On the way home we stopped off at the library. Thursday evening they will be showing a free movie. So the kids are all asking to go see it. Probably will if they behave the next couple days. :-)

Wednesday our plans are to just hang at home for the morning, have lunch then go swimming at the Y. After that I want to stop by the Farmer's Market and see if I can find any amazing deals!

We will also be dog sitting for some good friends. Abby is getting on in doggie years so she will be pretty easy to watch! We are also continuing our cat feeding and plant watering job for some other friends.

Busy bees is what we are when Daddy is traveling!

Leat

VBS 2011 Panda Mania Hope CC

2011-06-10T15:44:00.004-05:00

We just finished a week of Vacation Bible School at church. Luke and I worked as crew leaders and the other three boys participated as crew members. I just wanted to write down some of the amazing stories the kids learned about and what the leaders did to reinforce them. There was such creativity and love for the kids to hear the truth and remember.

On day one the Bible point was "God made you." The Bible story was the creation. Each crew was given a sack. In the sack were items that represented a certain day of creation. The kids got to use the props and act out what day they were.

On day two the Bible point was "God listens to you." The story was of Elijah VS the prophets of Baal. To demonstrate the story they had a kiddie pool filled with gravel and big rocks. The kids spread out the gravel then built an alter with the rocks. Sticks were laid. We couldn't exactly kill a bull, so something very important to the kids was to be sacrificed instead. It was a Hershey chocolate bar. The kids went nuts! . Then water was poured over all three times. And of course we couldn't really set a fire. A great helper stormed in dressed as a firefighter saying how when Elijah prayed God went a pillar of fire so hot it burned up everything and MELTED the stones. This was all after the Baal prophets had no luck getting their "god" to bring fire. The One True God listens.

On day three the point was "God watches over you." The story was Jonah and the big fish. The drama team made a belly of a fish with giant trash bags inflated with fans that about 25 kids and leaders could all go in. The fans were also blowing the scent of an open can of sardines! Even in the belly of a whale, God watched over Jonah.

On day four the point was "God loves you, no matter what!" The story was of Peter denying Jesus, his best friend. One of the church staff dressed up as Peter and talked about how terrible he felt. At the ending, another staffer dressed up as Jesus and hugged him, forgiving him. Jesus still loved him no matter, and He still loves us no matter what.

Day five the point was "God gives good gifts". The story was of Hannah. The drama team divided the crew leaders from the kids. The leaders were Pininnah, and the kids were Hannah. These two women were both the wives of Elkanah. P had lots of kids, H had none. So the leaders got lots of candy, the kids none. Then the kids each got 1 piece of candy. But then gave it back because H gave Samuel back to God. Then God blessed her with more children.

It was a great week. The leadership team did an amazing job with lots of hard work and prayer. The competition of boys vs girls with raising $ for missions was very intense. One day boys were ahead, the next the girls were ahead. All together the kids raised $1400!! The money will be divided between an India Missions League providing Indian children their own Bible club and discipleship and a missionary in Haiti who just opened an orphanage.

Banana Pops!

2011-06-03T06:46:00.004-05:00

My friend Gwen recently shared these amazingly easy delicious treats on her blog. We made them a couple weeks ago and the only reason we haven't again is because I need to grocery shop.

Take a bunch of bananas, peel them and cut in half. Into the bottom of each half, insert a Popsicle stick. Then lay on a wax paper lined baking sheet. Freeze for a few hours.

When then bananas are frozen, make the dip. This is 1/2 cup melted coconut oil, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/4 cup coco powder. Feel free to double if you have a lot of bananas. I had 12 halves and the amount came out just right.

You can also have different roll-ins. All I had at the time was shredded coconut and chopped almonds. You could also use sprinkles, other nuts, mini chocolate chips...

So working quickly, dip the frozen banana in the chocolate sauce then roll in the toppings. The sauce hardens very fast once on the bananas. It also makes a great ice cream sauce!

I hope you will try these with your kids this summer! They'll love the entire process and it is a healthy cool treat to boot!

Leat

Tepache Pineapple Drink

2011-05-04T12:55:00.006-05:00

I recently learned about a Mexican drink called Tepache.

With only three ingredients, I thought I'd give it a try.

All you need is a pineapple, brown sugar, water and a gallon glass jar.

Cut up the pineapple. Put the rind pieces (without the leaves) into the gallon jar. Enjoy the fruit or if you must, share with your family.

To the rind, add 1- 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar.

Top the jar with water leaving 1 inch or so head room.

Gently stir with a wooden spoon to dissolve the brown sugar. Put the lid on and let sit on the counter 3-5 days. Remove the lid once each day to release any pressure. Strain off the liquid,discard used rind and refrigerate the tepache.

This will keep for several days. Enjoy!

Most of the garden is in!

2011-04-19T06:16:00.003-05:00

I have been dragging my feet on finishing the garden. I am great at procrastinating. But when my wonderful husband, who was not feeling good, tilled up the small garden for me, I went ahead and put more seeds in the ground. Guess what? It wasn't bad at all! Even with the wind.

I am switching things around from the big garden to the small. Just because I felt like it. HAHA. So the small garden has tomatoes, peppers, sweet corn, pumpkins and spaghetti squash. Bordered on two sides with calendulas. (marigolds)

The big garden has cabbage,beets, kale, spinach, carrots, lettuce, potatoes, herbs, garlic,onions, beans cantaloupe and popcorn. I might add more to the big garden as there is still a lot of empty spaces. Not sure what though.

So that is the latest around here.

Have a great day!

Leat

Almost Ready

2011-03-30T19:17:00.003-05:00

I am almost ready to tackle the garden again. Almost.

I have my seeds inventoried, I just need to figure out my layout. I want to put things closely together in groups to help keep weeds down. I also have an area of the big garden that gets less sun than the rest, so I need to put more shade loving things there.

I guess I'm waiting for the weather to be just a tad warmer and out of night frost danger. I also am waiting because once I put the seeds in the ground, I'll be committed to watering or having the kids water regularly. Lazy sounding, I know.

I am usually so excited every spring to get the garden going. Then come the rains, followed closely by the weeds.

My plan of attack this year will be mulch. If it doesn't get blown away.

I am kind of excited to try some new things this year. My attempt at herbs last year failed miserably. This year I'll try putting them in the big garden where the soil is not clay. I'm also excited about growing cabbage and making our own sauerkraut. Kale, different lettuces, beets, and the usual tomatoes, peppers, squash, corn and beans.

Leat

Walking

2011-03-03T07:22:00.003-06:00

I have decided to walk the month of March. I do it everyday anyway, just need to set a reasonable goal and do it! So far I am 2 for 2. My official goal is three miles per day. If I go over, bonus!

I broke the clip on my pedometer, so am using my sons for now. I just clip it on first thing in the morning and move until I reach my goal.

Having a goal does make me move more than I normally would, which is a good thing! I find myself pacing the floor as I read to the boys instead of sitting on the couch. I don't do it all in one big chunk. I count pittering around the house, back and forth to the clothesline etc. But I have been making a point to do a few laps around our land and in the evenings after dinner, Bri and I will walk up and down the road.

So far I have managed to get my three miles in during the day then the 1.5-2 miles in the evening are just icing on the cake.

So that's what I'm up to. Wish me luck!

Leat

Taste of Spring

2011-02-21T10:56:00.003-06:00

Over the weekend we had a wonderful taste of spring. I'm talking, in the 70's short sleeves, MUST be outside.

Saturday we decided to drive by a house in Riverside. It was a junker! But we went to the park and the kids played. The bathrooms were not opened so we walked a few blocks into down town and found a Quick Trip. We headed back a different way and found the Keeper of The Plains. It is a local landmark in Wichita. We always knew it was there but have never been up close and personal. Back at the park the kids played a while longer then we loaded up to go out for dinner.

We ate at Playa Azul in their downtown location. After all that walking the food never tasted so good! Then we walked some more around the Old Town district.

Not wanting to go home just yet, we hung out at Barnes and Noble for an hour or so.Then stopped and picked up some ice cream as a night cap.

Sunday morning we went to church and came home and had lunch. It was another nice day so we loaded up and headed to El Dorado. They have a great walking/biking path that we had been on before but never the whole way. It turned out to be maybe a mile or more. At the end, it wrapped down under a bridge and to another park. The kids had a blast playing. What better way to end the evening then Gambino's Pizza! Again, after all that walking dinner never tasted so good!

Such a great weekend. We cannot wait for real spring and be outside everyday!

Tired

2011-02-16T15:11:00.002-06:00

I am tired. Not just need more sleep tired. I am tired of everything. Tired of cleaning rooms,clothes,dishes... then 5 minutes later start all over again. I am tired of, gasp! facebook. I am tired of myself. I wake up each morning thinking of all the things I will get done that day. How this will be the day I will get it all done. School, meals, exercise, and have time left over to just ENJOY the boys.

Then I get up, get Brian fed and off to work and read my Bible. The kids start to get up and I do good for a while. Then fussing starts, asking for a snack for the first of a hundred times starts.

School starts and who knows if it will be a good day or not. We average about 1 REALLY good day out of 4. We take Mondays off since Brian is off that day.

I just want a change. I don't know what kind, just a change.

I did change my looks. Brian cut off 6-8 inches of my hair last weekend, at my request. I now have a chin bob and really love it. But I am still restless.

I have been on an emotional roller coaster lately. We thought a big change was coming and then that got shot down. Now we can see God was saving us from serious heartache. I guess I am still not over the disappointment even though God saved us from it. Just the thought of somewhere new and different was so exciting.

No real point to all this blabbering. Just hoping typing it out would help.

Homemade Cleaning Charts

2011-01-22T16:53:00.000-06:00

http://www.fingerlakesbuygreen.org/data/Do%20It%20Yourself%20Recipes.pdf
www.fingerlakesbuygreen.org

For Research

2011-01-22T09:32:00.000-06:00

http://www.tasteforlife.com/whole-health/conditions-treatments/beyond-st-john

Proverbs 21:5

2011-01-21T06:12:00.001-06:00

The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.

School Project

2011-01-19T12:52:00.003-06:00

I am planning to try something new for school. Besides the regular book work.

This morning as I was grabbing down the phone book, I saw last years calendar. Since it had some pretty pictures, quotes and verses,I didn't want to just chuck the whole thing. So I started cutting it all apart.

My not so original plan is to use the small pictures and verses to make homemade cards. As for the quotes, Luke,Jacob, Caleb and I will cut out each word, sort into nouns,verb,adjectives,etc. And make up new sayings to paste onto the cards.

Hopefully, it will be a fun learning time together. Good reinforcement of all those grammar rules. Now to quit thinking how neat, and actually do it! If it turns out, I'll be sure to post pics!

Leat

Winterland 2011

2011-01-12T15:00:00.003-06:00

Some pictures of our land in the snow.

Still Here

2010-12-10T15:22:00.003-06:00

I am so terrible about updating here regularly.

I guess I feel not much happens that anyone would really care to read about.

So why do I keep this blog? Good question. Because every once in a while something does happen that I feel like sharing. Not that I do today though. lol

Facebook has also cut into my time here. I can condense into a couple sentences and be done.

If anyone cares, I'll talk about today's activities. We got school done this morning. We put together a box mix of homemade marshmallows. I made homemade crackers that turned out really good! I am also making a spinach artichoke dip to have with our hamburgers for dinner.

No major plans for the weekend. But with Brian's 3 day week ends now I'm sure we'll come up with some fun activities.

Hope you have a great weekend!

Leat

How I Spent my Vacation from Facebook

2010-11-23T07:16:00.007-06:00

So for the past 6 days I have been off of Facebook. I was getting too attached. I was starting to be more involved with my friends lives and less involved in my own family's! Not a good thing. So I decided to take a break.

I found out that the world keeps right on turning. Surprise Surprise.

I also found out I am more creative and enjoy my kids more the less time I spend on the computer. Again, surprise surprise! (please note, I am posting this while everyone is still in bed this am!)

Here are a few of the things I managed to accomplish.

My Father-in-law had given us a bucket full of tomatoes and peppers from his greenhouse. They were just sitting in the back of our frige. I didn't really want to make salsa, so I looked up and adapted a recipe for homemade v8 juice! I got a little over 1/2 gallon. Here is one of the bottles.

Amazingly enough, Caleb and Nathan have a floor is their room! We deep cleaned, AGAIN. Hopefully it will last longer this time!

I got more material and lots of thread from my Father-in-law. I was so excited! Yes, Brian rolled his eyes and asked if I really needed it. But now I'm set for life! Nathan helped me sort the spools by color and put them away.

Our Colorado family is in town for Thanksgiving. The cousins have had a blast playing together. Laura and the kids came over yesterday to visit, make pumpkin pies and choose material for aprons. (gotta start using it up!) ;)

Anna rolled out the dough. Nathan played with the scraps.

Laura brought over some suduku worksheets for the older kids to work on.

The younger boys played downstairs with the blocks and track

Anna finished up a project she had brought to work on.

The pies turned out great!

While I still enjoy FB, I've realized there is more to life than that. I am glad I took a break, and will try to not let it take over again!

May anyone reading this have a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving!

Leat

1 Peter 1:3-8

2010-11-19T06:23:00.003-06:00

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by His great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance- an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by His power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see.
So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold-though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.
You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy.

Brian has been and is continuing to go through trials at work. These verses are such an encouragement! Earlier in the week he was across the country on a business trip. It seemed a lot harder this time having him away,even though is was a short trip. On Monday I called my SIL and we got the Thanksgiving menu worked out and just talking to her was such an encouragement. That night a great friend called and again just talking was just what I needed at that time. Tuesday evening I decided to take the boys to the library to save time the next morning. As we were getting ready to leave, Nathan ran up to me telling me the Vallejo's had just walked in! I got to sit and hold the sweetest 1 month old little girl and visit face to face with my dearest friend!

I am so amazed when God brings the perfect scripture at the perfect time. Also the perfect friend or phone call at just the time I need it most! He has been doing that a lot lately and I couldn't be more grateful!

Exodus 14:14

2010-11-05T06:54:00.002-05:00

The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

This is what Moses told the people when they were near the Red Sea and saw the Egyptian army pursuing them.

So many times when things start to get a little rough and stressful I become like the Israelites. "God, WHY are you letting this happen? Where are you? I wish things were like before."

But God ALWAYS has a better plan, He is ALWAYS in control. I just need to hold my peace and wait on Him.

El Dorado Lake 2010

2010-10-04T08:08:00.014-05:00

We spent this past weekend camping at El Dorado Lake. We went specifically for the OK Kids Day on Saturday.

We left Friday afternoon around 3. Bri's dad came with us in his motor home. The weather was absolutely beautiful! We found a great spot near the water and close to the shower house.

Bri got in a short kayak time on the water after getting us all set up. Turns out that was his only time on the water so I'm glad he got to go then.

That evening some friends arrived and camped next to us. Our boys and theirs had a great time chopping wood for our fire with their hatchets.
The wind picked up during the night and we awoke to a chilly morning. Rachelle graciously shared hot chocolate with the kids.

Israel, Jacob and Sam

Nathan

Luke

Caleb

After breakfast we headed over to OK Kids. It stands for Outdoor Kansas Kids. It is a free event held at various lakes throughout the year. The point being to introduce kids to outdoor activities and various demonstrations. This was our fourth year. The boys absolutely love it! It was more special this year to get to introduce their friends and take them around to the different activities.

Bri helping Nathan at archery

Rescue demonstration

Caleb in the petting zoo

Nathan won a tackle box in the drawing after lunch!

Our great friends, The Vallejo's came for the afternoon!
3 of their girls painting bird feeders.

After OK Kids, we went back to camp.
Dinner that night was Chili and corn bread.

After dinner Grandpa cooked S'mores with the boys.

That night the boys slept in the motor home with Grandpa.

Bri and I waiting to watch a video before bed.

We had a wonderful time camping and visiting with friends!

Leat

Our Boys

2010-09-22T07:16:00.004-05:00

Since I am terrible about posting regularly, I thought I would just post some pics of the boys to see when I come to read my friends blogs. hehe

Gone Home

2010-09-07T14:12:00.002-05:00

My Mother-in-law, Dianne Brooks, went home to Jesus early this morning. she had been in hospice for several weeks.

She was a great mom and grandmother. How she loved her 10 grandchildren with a passion!

She was also one of the greatest prayer warriors. Whenever anyone in the family was sick or going through a difficult time, Brian would say, "call mom so she can pray".

We all miss her terribly but are thankful that she is finally home.

30 Days Day11

2010-08-23T07:33:00.002-05:00

This program is going a lot slower for me because I average only 2-4 times a week with it. I've had it for well over a month. Oh well, I'll get there sooner or later.

My curiosity got the better of me today and I did level 3! It went pretty good. I admit I did the modified on a lot of it. The sumo squats just about did me in! Believe it or not I think the walking push ups are easier than regular.

It feels good to get back into it. I usually skip the weekends and that is also when I eat worse than during the week, sweets wise. All things in moderation right?

I think I will start rotating the levels just to keep it interesting. I like level 2 but for some reason it messes up my right knee. No use getting in shape if I end up screwing my knee up.

Hope you have a great start to the week!

Leat

30 Days Day 10

2010-08-16T08:30:00.003-05:00

I did the video 3 days last week. I had started level 2. Today I got back with it and continued with level 2. It seemed to go a bit smoother. Hopefully my right knee will not swell this week. I started doing the knee circles from level 1 before starting.

So that's where I'm at. No difference in my clothes yet, but I do have more energy the days I exercise and fell stronger all around.

Have a great day!

Leat

New School Year

2010-08-14T14:05:00.006-05:00

This past week we started our new school year. We got in 3 out of 5 days of actual bookwork. It went better than I thought actually. We still have some tweeking to do with the schedule, but that's to be expected right?

I love reading about what other home schoolers use for curriculum, so thought I would share what we are using this year.

A lot of our books we just keep and pass down to the next boy as needed. Mostly readers and Science and History for the early grades. This past May I went to a local home school used book sale and picked up quite a bit for a huge savings over ordering on line. We got two books used from Amazon and Luke's from Craigslist.

So here is our curriculum for this year.

Luke is in 7th grade this year. He is using Alpha Omega Switched On Schoolhouse for all of his subjects. He really loves working at the computer and is thriving on this format.

Jacob is in 5th grade this year. His readers are Of America Vol.1,Christian Liberty Nature Reader Book 5,Jed Smith Trailblazer of the West and Pinocchio's Quest. Math is Saxon again. The format really works with him. Bible is the same as Caleb; listening to daily reading and copy work from Psalm 119. Spelling is Building Spelling Skills Book 5, as well as extra games and practice from a great website I recently learned about called Spelling City .com. You just plug in the words and then the student can do different activities to help learn them. Science is from Abeka Investigating God's World.English is from Bob Jones. History is Exploring American History from Christian Liberty Press. Geography is called Maps Globes Graphs

Caleb is in 2nd grade this year. His readers are Beautiful Stories for Children,and the Christian Liberty Nature Reader Book 2. For Bible each morning I read the chapter of the day in Proverbs and Acts. Then he and Jacob each have a notebook and copy 1 verse each day from Psalms 119. There are 172 verses in that chapter so by the end of the school year they will have written the whole chapter. Science is from Christian Liberty, as is History. Spelling came from the used book sale and looks to be a great book. English, also from the sale is from Bob Jones. He will be learning about a fictional missionary family in Grenada as he learns writing and grammar. Math is from Modern Curriculm Press.

Nathan is doing the Rod and Staff Preschool work books just like his brothers did. I also picked up an extra workbook at the Dollar Tree. He also does Starfall on the computer, various activities and puzzles, and we will be going through the classic Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons.

For read alouds, we get different biographies from the library and have started reading the Bobbsey Twins series.

Happy Schooling!

Leat

30 Days Day 7

2010-08-09T17:25:00.002-05:00

I went ahead and went to level 2 today. I really liked it! It was good to have new moves to do. Also it was great to not have push ups! There is more moves in the push up position, but it is doing leg work and not push ups. Clear as mud?

I also noticed my energy was up all day. It stood out more because I didn't exercise last week and felt sluggish and cranky most of the time. So that is just more motivation to stick to it and get it done in the early morning and reap the benefits all day long!

Leat

16 Years

2010-08-06T07:33:00.002-05:00

30 Days Day 6

2010-07-30T08:25:00.002-05:00

The push ups are getting to be just a teesy bit easier! Also can tell a big difference in my arm strength! Amazing the difference the weights make!

Last night I had to quickly grind 2 cups to soak for breakfast this am. I went a lot faster and did not get as tired as I used to!

So excited to see such a difference after just 6 days. Four more days of level one then on to level 2.

Have a great day!
Leat

30 Days Day 5

2010-07-28T07:27:00.002-05:00

Today was day 5 and my first day using real weights. What a difference! I moved from my salmon cans to actual 2# weights. Glad I decided to start small and work my way up.

Slowly but surly I'll get there.

Have a great day!

Leat

30 Days Day 4

2010-07-26T08:52:00.002-05:00

Today was day 4 of 30 day shred. I am starting to have more endurance. Well except for the push ups, don't know if those will ever become easier!

I was amazed at my stamina yesterday when we were kayaking. I did not get tired and worn out half way through like I used to! Yay for arm work! I've been using 2 14.5 oz cans of salmon for my weights during the workouts. I think I will be ready to move into 2 or 3 lb weights soon.

I can feel the difference in my arms and legs. I hope my tummy flab starts to disappear soon!

Have a great day!

Leat

30 Days Day 3

2010-07-23T08:48:00.002-05:00

So I took a week off and boy do I feel it today. It seemed harder than day 1!

Taught me a lesson to not put off!

Sorry no picture today. Thought it was too boring looking at my fat belly. Might just do one at the end of the 30 days.

Have a great day!
Leat

God Revealed through each book of the Bible

2010-07-21T18:43:00.001-05:00

God revealed through each book of the Bible...
Share
Today at 5:07pm
"He Is" by the Christian father-son duet Aaron Jeoffrey.

In Genesis, He's the Breath of Life
In Exodus, the Passover Lamb
In Leviticus, He's our High Priest
Numbers, the Fire by Night
Deuteronomy, He's Moses' Voice
In Joshua, He is Salvation's choice
Judges, Law Giver
In Ruth, the kinsmen-redeemer
First and Second Samuel, our Trusted Prophet
In Kings and Chronicles, He's Sovereign
Nehemiah, He's the Rebuilder of broken walls and lives
In Esther, He's Mordecai's courage
In Job, the timeless redeemer
In Psalms, He is our morning song
In Proverbs, wisdom's cry
Ecclesiastes, the time and season
In the Song of Solomon, He is the lover's dream

HE IS, HE IS, HE IS....

In Isaiah, He's Prince of Peace
Jeremiah, the weeping prophet
In Lamentations, the cry for Israel
Ezekiel, He's the call from sin
In Daniel, the stranger in the Fire
In Hosea, He is forever faithful
In Joel, He's the spirit's power
In Amos, the arms that carry us
In Obadiah, He's the Lord our Savior
In Jonah, He's the great missionary
In Micah, the promise of peace
In Nahum, He is our strength and our shield
In Habakkuk and Zephaniah He's pleading for revival
In Haggai, He restores a lost heritage
In Zechariah, our fountain
In Malachi, He is the sun of righteousness
Rising with healing in His wings

HE IS, HE IS, HE IS....

In Matthew, Mark, Luke and John He is God, Man Messiah
In the book of Acts, He is Fire from Heaven
In Romans, He's the Grace of God
In Corinthians, the power of Love
In Galatians, He is freedom from the curse of sin

Ephesians, our glorious treasure
Philippians, the servant's heart
In Colossians, He's the Godhead Trinity
Thessalonians, Our coming King
In Timothy, Titus, Philemon He's our mediator and our faithful pastor
In Hebrews, the everlasting covenant
In James, the One who heals the sick
In First and Second Peter, He is our Shepherd
In John and Jude, He's the Lover Coming for His bride
In Revelation, He is King of kings and Lord of lords
HE IS, HE IS, HE IS...
The Prince of Peace, The Son of Man, The Lamb of God,
The Great I Am, He's the Alpha and Omega,
Our God and our Savior, He is Jesus Christ the Lord,
And when time is no more..
HE IS... HE IS...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3YhvAffME4

30 Days Day 2

2010-07-16T09:16:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I had soo much energy after the workout. I spent several hours weeding the garden. I also noticed a huge decrease in my appitite. That was a good thing!

Today was good again. I think the push ups are the hardest by far!

I am wearing regular shorts and not sucking in so my muffin shows up really well! Trying to keep it as honest as possible. Looking forward to looser fitting shorts for sure!

Again, here is your laugh for the day!

Leat

30 Days Day 1

2010-07-15T08:04:00.002-05:00

Today was day 1 of Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred DVD.

I am going to post a picture of each day I do this work out and see if I can't get a flat,strong stomach after all these years.

So have a laugh with me and we'll look at the first picture.

Leat

Bible Study

2010-07-13T07:37:00.003-05:00

Galations 5:22-23

Love
Joy
Peace
Long Suffering
Gentleness
Goodness
Faith
Meekness

2 Peter 1:5-7

Virture
Knowledge
Temperance
Patience
Godliness
Brotherly Kindness
Charity

2 Peter 1:8-9

For if these things be in you,and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind and cannot see afar off and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.

He Listens After All!

2010-07-12T15:38:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Bri took the three older boys to the lake for the day. I wasn't feeling all that great so Nathan and I stayed home together.

We listened to music, watched some dvd's and took good naps. I was starting dinner when Bri called and asked if I wanted to pick up Chinese and bring it out to the lake. So I put dinner on hold until today and Nathan and I headed off to Dillons.

As we were driving along he told me,"The best thing about God is obeying you and Dad". Wow! where did that come from!? I replied, "yes it is. Mommy and Daddy obey God too and when we all obey everyone is so much happier aren't we?"

Then the conversation turned to our new homes in Heaven. "will we need to have sweepers to keep our heaven house clean?" "No I don't think there will dust in heaven." "Will God ever run out of food?" "No, heaven is perfect, there will always be more than enough food."

I love when the boys want to talk about God and heaven. It usually happens when we are having one on one time like yesterday with Nathan. or when I'm working out in the garden. One or another will come out and just start talking.

Happy Independance Day

2010-07-04T09:55:00.001-05:00

Give Away

2010-06-23T13:40:00.001-05:00

I just entered for a $140 gift basket from Graham's Gardens and you can too!

http://www.keeperofthehome.org/2010/06/1000th-post-party-giveaway-wholesome-family-skin-care-gift-basket-giveaway-140-value.html

Father's Day

2010-06-21T20:53:00.004-05:00

I am so blessed to have Brian! He is the absolute best Dad for our sons! Yesterday he took them to a friends house to go horseback riding. The boys were beside themselves with excitement!

The baby horse is only 1 month old!

Big Gig

2010-06-14T13:26:00.004-05:00

On Saturday we had a day long rental with all but 2 of our boats. We were part of a company picnic at Augusta Lake.

We set up around 9:30 and left at 5:30.

Brian acted as life guard/chaperon for most of the time. Patrolling the water in his Hobie.

It was a long day but everyone had a good time and the company was so nice to let the boys join the other kids playing on the inflatables,riding the barrel train and eating snow cones.

They also shared their wonderful bbq lunch with our family. All said we probably had around 50+ people in and out of the boats. They kept us hopping at times, but we had a great time and are thankful for the opportunity.

Leat

2010-06-07T07:39:00.001-05:00

2010-06-07T07:33:00.001-05:00

First Loaf

2010-06-01T07:33:00.003-05:00

Here is my first loaf of sour dough bread!

I was thrilled with how it turned out. Wonderfully tangy,but not overpowering. It does take some planning because of the two really long risings, but totally worth it!

I made sour dough pancakes this morning, and the family thinks they are the best yet. Looking forward to baking more with sour dough!

No Video When You Want It

2010-05-30T10:00:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we spent most of the day at the lake getting customers in and out of kayaks. In between times we swam and just enjoyed being there. At the end of the day as we were getting ready to load the last boats to come home, a man had his truck on the boat ramp getting ready to pull his boat out of the water.

All of a sudden, the truck starts backing into the water! Everything in his truck bed started floating around. I ran tot he office and had the gal call the caretaker. Meanwhile the truck went completely under. The guy and his dog were in the cab. Everyone was yelling for him to get out. Thankfully his windows were down and he just slid out. Then his dog went out the other window. Cheers could be heard all over the lake.

So scary watching it all just a few feet away and not being able to do anything! Another guy came up and had him hook a heavy chain and towed his truck out of the water. Several police showed up. Not much they could do. We don't know if the truck is repairable or not. Just grateful he is alive and fine. It cold have been a very tragic situation.

Friday

2010-05-28T18:01:00.002-05:00

It is Friday evening and I am beat

No exact reason,just maybe the heat

Busy weekend starts this evening

Renting boats coming and leaving

As you see, I'm not too good with rhyme

So I'll sign off until next time

Leat

God is SO Amazing!

2010-05-27T07:31:00.003-05:00

I think I'll temporarily change the next few blog titles to Leat's Natural Adventures.

Yesterday I finally got up the courage to start some sour dough starter! I have been intimidated just by the thought of it.

Why? Because it is a commitment. I need to feed it twice a day. Well, my kids eat 3+ times so I guess I can handle two.

What if it doesn't take, all that flour wasted!
I wasn't sure after the initial start. But can already tell it will work! Big difference from last night to this morning!

And really the amount of flour at each feeding isn't as much as I thought it would be. It really pays to research and get the facts before passing judgement. It only takes 6 Tablespoons of ground whole wheat flour and 4 Tablespoons of water.

I am using the instructions from here: http://networkedblogs.com/3T1TC

After 4 days of diligently feeding and it doubling each time I will be ready to bake my first loaf!

The amazing part to me is that it is just flour and water. The yeast is just floating around in the air and doing it's thang in my jar! I won't have to buy $4 jars of store yeast as often! More $ to put towards fruit and other healthy snacks my hollow legged boys can't get enough of.

God is truly SO Amazing!

2010-05-26T20:08:00.002-05:00

My day condensed:

Breakfast for the family eggs and toast.

Math with Jacob

Weed in the garden

Read Bible with the boys

Mexican for dinner

Luke mowing

searching craigslist for Bri.

Good night.

Switching Gears

2010-05-25T16:35:00.002-05:00

I have become one of those bloggers who doesn't blog often enough. So I decided to switch gears for a bit and turn this blog into a daily diary of sorts. I'll just be posting at the end of each day what I ate, did, and maybe thought that day. Basically, I'll be rambling. Just to warn ya!

This morning I got up and made pancakes for breakfast. I didn't have to pack Brian lunch because he is in training for the next three days and they provide it for him. Nice to have a short break. Although I am grateful to be able to pack a lunch for him. Anyways, I am trying to switch our family over to real maple syrup instead of the cheap HFCS stuff. I get the least expensive I can find at the store, which right now is $6.24 for 12+ oz. Anyway, less is more with the real thing!

I got my whole Bible reading in this morning. Then rode 5 laps on my bike.

The boys spent a lot of time picking mulberries today. So I tried my hand at jam making. I got 5 1/2 pints put up. Not sure how thick it will be. If not jam, we have some tasty syrup!

Dinner is chicken broccoli rice casserole.

Leat

Alabama Judge

2010-05-15T15:25:00.003-05:00

This an e-mail sent to me. My husband was in Alabama during this time. Almost three weeks during the month of August 2003.

This is truly sad for a Christian based country.

Alabama Judge

Some of you may be wondering what Judge Roy Moore has been doing since he was removed from the bench for refusing to
remove the Ten Commandments from his courtroom wall. Please read the poem he wrote.

The following is a poem written by Judge Roy Moore from Alabama. Judge Moore was sued by the ACLU for displaying the
Ten Commandments in his courtroom foyer. He has been stripped of his judgeship and now they are trying to strip his right to practice law in Alabama! The judge's poem sums it up quite well.

America the beautiful,
or so you used to be.
Land of the Pilgrims' pride;
I'm glad they'll never see.

Babies piled in dumpsters,
Abortion on demand,
Oh, sweet land of liberty;
your house is on the sand.

Our children wander aimlessly
poisoned by cocaine
choosing to indulge their lusts,
when God has said abstain

From sea to shining sea,
our Nation turns away
From the teaching of God's love
and a need to always pray

We've kept God in our temples,
how callous we have grown.
When earth is but His footstool,
and Heaven is His throne.

We've voted in a government
that's rotting at the core,
Appointing Godless Judges
who throw reason out the door,

Too soft to place a killer
in a well deserved tomb,
But brave enough to kill a baby
before he leaves the womb.

You think that God's not angry,
that our land's a moral slum ?
How much longer will He wait
before His judgment comes ?

How are we to face our God,
from Whom we cannot hide ?
What then is left for us to do,
but stem this evil tide ?

If we who are His children,
will humbly turn and pray;
Seek His holy face
and mend our evil way:

Then God will hear from Heaven;
and forgive us of our sins,
He'll heal our sickly land
and those who live within....

But, America the Beautiful,
If you don't - then you will see,
A sad but Holy God
withdraw His hand from Thee.

~~Judge Roy Moore~~

This says it all. May we all offer our prayers for Judge Moore to be blessed and for America to wake up and realize what we need to do to keep OUR America the Beautiful.

IN GOD WE TRUST!

Isaiah 28:10

2010-05-12T11:34:00.003-05:00

For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept;line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.

I had always thought of this verse as just being for raising kids. But really it can be applied to so many things.

Scripture memory

Math & other school work

Running

Pretty much anything you can think of.

Everything has to start at the beginning and slowly build.

I'm finding most things cannot be rushed. I can't skip a day, or week, or month and expect to just pick up where I was before.

Consistency seems to be the key to everything. I'm the first to admit to being the queen of slacking and procrastination. This verse has knocked me up side the head (in a good way).

I need to just keep chipping away in all I do and want to do.

The kids won't just magically become obedient. They won't magically learn to read or memorize scripture and math facts.

This body won't just magically become fit and trim.

Line upon line, precept upon precept.

Leat

Brooks Bridge

2010-05-01T14:28:00.001-05:00

Brian and the boys built a railroad tie bridge down at the pond field over the ditch.

Growing Up

2010-04-21T08:11:00.002-05:00

Bri has taught Luke(11) to mow with the riding mower. He does a great job!

Scratch and Sniff

2010-04-18T14:18:00.000-05:00

A Pastor With Guts

2010-04-12T10:53:00.002-05:00

Received this in an e-mail. Prayer from Former Pastor of Central Christian Church, Joe Wright, in Wichita, KS giving the opening prayer of the KS Senate several years ago.

A Pastor with GUTS!

Thought you might enjoy this interesting
prayer given in Kansas at
the opening session of their Senate. It seems
prayer still upsets some
people.. When Minister Joe Wright was asked to open
the new session of the Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usualgeneralities, but this is what they heard:

Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask
your forgiveness and to seek your direction and
guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those
who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we
have done.

We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed
our values.

We have exploited the poor and called it
the lottery.

We have rewarded laziness and called it
welfare..

We have killed our unborn and called it
choice.

We have shot abortionists and called it
justifiable.

We have neglected to discipline our
children and called it building self esteem....

We have abused power and called it
politics.

We have coveted our neighbor's possessions
and called it ambition.

We have polluted the air with profanity and
pornography and called it freedom of expression.

We have ridiculed the time-honored values
of our forefathers and called it enlightenment.

Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts
today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free.
Amen!

The response was immediate. A number of
legislators walked out during the prayer in
protest. In 6 short weeks, Central Christian
Church, where Rev. Wright is pastor, logged more than
5,000 phone calls with only 47 of those calls
responding negatively. The church is now receiving
international requests for copies of this prayer
from India , Africa and Korea .

Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on
his radio program, 'The Rest of the Story,'and
received a larger response to this program than any
other he has ever aired.

With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep
over our nation and wholeheartedly become our
desire so that we again can be called 'one nation
under God.'

If possible, please pass this prayer on to
your friends.... 'If you don't stand for something,
you will fall for everything.'

Spring Time at Our House

2010-04-07T09:17:00.002-05:00

Cousin Buddy's

2010-04-05T08:22:00.002-05:00

Jonathan and Nathan snuggle with Grandma B. Easter afternoon.

Happy 9th Birthday Jacob!!!

2010-04-02T07:30:00.004-05:00

Jacob is 9! Where has the time gone?
Jacob is such a joy in our lives! He is smart, funny, loving and caring.

He is also a hard worker. Earlier this week he and his brothers made us a new landscaping bed for me to plant herbs in.

Yesterday he helped me make his birthday doughnuts. Enjoy these pictures from breakfast this morning.

As per birthday tradition here is todays menu chosen by the birthday boy.

Breakfast: doughnuts, sausage,egg and cheese biscuits
Lunch: bologna boats
Dinner: pita sandwiches

Garden Fever

2010-03-29T07:16:00.003-05:00

I've come down with a serious case this year. Hoping and praying the garden in my reality will somewhat resemble the garden in my head!

The garlic we planted last fall is doing well. It is nice to see the little bit of green in the sea of brown.

We have several tomatoes and peppers starting to sprout indoors. All of my herbs in the kitchen widow have also sprouted! This is my first time to start things from seed inside. They have a long way to go till they look like the plants we saw for sale at Dillons last night. But I know it will be worth the wait.

I am also trying several new things this year. I want to plant a few rows of wheat just for fun. Pretend I live in Bible times or be the Little Red Hen and "do it my self" With the boys help of course! Also I want to plant some pinto beans and see what happens.

We also have the usual wonderful things. Corn, green beans, squash, cantaloupe, potatoes, popcorn,carrots and others I can't think of right now.

Today I'll have the boys help me plant potatoes. We'll also see if we can get an avocado to root by sticking toothpicks in the middle and letting the bottom half sit in a cup of water.

Happy Gardening!

Leat

Hitting Home

2010-03-24T07:30:00.003-05:00

It is so amazing to me how I'll be thinking of something or just what is going on in life at the moment, then I'll go to read my Bible and BAM! A verse or passage jumps out talking about exactly what I was thinking of earlier.

I got a facebook account several months ago. The original reason was to keep in touch with our close friends who were about to move into a fifth wheel and travel as a family with the husbands job. Then I started finding old school friends, family we don't see much of, old coworkers and friends from other forums on the web.

I started spending more and more time with them and less with those who matter most, my sons. Everything I said or did brought thoughts of, "How many comments would that get if I posted it?"

So yesterday I was reading in Matthew 15. Jesus has just told Peter how he will be the rock on which the church is built. He then goes on to say how he (Jesus) must suffer, die and be raised again on the third day. To this Peter rebuked him and Jesus responds by saying, "Get thee behind me Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men".

BAM! BAM! I have not been savoring the things of God. Training my children to the BEST and FULLEST of my ability in HIS ways. But those of men. (Ladies on FB)

Last weekend my mother-in-law gave me a great book called Lessons At Blackberry Inn By Karen Andreola

It is a fiction book of a mother homeschooling her children in the 1930's. She puts into practice the Charlotte Mason approach to homeschooling.

I have just heard bits of this approach here and there, not researching it too much thinking it would be overwhelming. But after reading this book and "seeing" it put into practice, I feel more confident to try and start implementing some of the things. We will be starting to read more poetry, dig out the famous art paintings book to study, more read alouds with the boys narrating back what they hear about the stories and more nature observing.

God is so amazing and wonderful! Supplying a better way to use my time. Teaching for HIS glory.

Leat

Tater People

2010-03-23T14:11:00.003-05:00

This is from an e-mail sent to me from my Mom

Tater People

Some people never seem motivated to participate, but are just content to watch while others do the work.
They are called "Spec Taters"

Some people never do anything to help, but are gifted at finding fault with the way others do the work.
They are called "Comment Taters"

Some people are very bossy and like to tell others what to do, but don't want to spoil their own hands.
They are called "Dick Taters"

Some people are always looking to cause problems by asking others to agree with them. It is too hot or too cold, too sour or too sweet.
They are called "Agie Taters"

There are those who say they will help, but somehow just never get around to actually doing the promised help.
They are called "Hezzie Taters"

Some people put up a front and pretend to be someone they are not.
They are called "Emma Taters"

Then there are those who love others and do what they say they will. They are always prepared to stop whatever they are doing and lend a helping hand. They bring real sunshine into the lives if others.
They are called "Sweet Taters"

First Day of Spring

2010-03-20T15:55:00.003-05:00

Today is the first day of spring. What is it doing outside? Snowing and blowing.

To celebrate, the kids woke up begging to make snow ice cream. So Luke went out with the big metal bowl and came in with it filled with snow. Brian stirred in a can of sweetened condensed milk and a teaspoon of vanilla. Barely 10 am and they were enjoying their sweet treat!

Another version of this recipe that we made back in December is to stir in 1 cup of half and half cream and 1 cup of sugar into the snow.

Hands down everyone likes the sweetened condensed milk version better.

Happy Spring!
Leat

Homemade Pasta Noodles

2010-03-13T16:49:00.006-06:00

Thursday afternoon I was thinking about what to make for dinner. I was going to the grocery store that night, so pickens were pretty slim. I had a bag of raw shrimp in the freezer, a box of cream cheese, 1 cup of milk, and two eggs. Everything for shrimp alfredo except the noodles. Wait! I had 1/2 box of lasagna noodles. I could have broken them into little pieces, but didn't think they would be enough for 6 hungry people. So I decided to make my own noodles.

A quick google search brought up plenty of recipes. Remembering Lydia Bastianich from PBS all I needed was some eggs and flour right?

So I mounded up my flour and then made a little well for the eggs.

I gently start working the flour into the eggs. So far so good. Soon I run into a problem though. The eggs have soaked up as much as they are going to and I still have a ton of flour. I decided to start rolling it out anyway. I end up with a nice flat mound of flour that is barely damp. Some of the other recipes called for oil, so I drizzle on some olive oil. Still too dry. I add water. STILL dry, more oil and water. I decide to add some flavor so I sprinkle on some basil and garlic powder. Finally it is coming together and the color is beautiful. I rolled it out as thin as possible, not having a pasta machine or anything. Kind of fun actually!

Then Luke and I take turns with the pizza cutter making thin strips of pasta.

Five minutes in boiling water and it's done and delicious!

(sorry no picture of the final dinner, I was running out the door to visit an old friend and grocery shop)

So if you are wanting an exact recipe of what I did, weelll, I kind of turned into one of those pinch of this people on this, but when I make them again I'll write down the exact measurements of everything. But here is a guesstamate.

2-3 cups flour
2 eggs
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp garlic powder

Mound two cups flour on lightly floured surface.
Beat eggs and pour into well made in flour.
Gently stir flour into eggs.
Add basil and garlic powder.
Gradually add oil and water until dough is smooth, add more flour as needed.
Roll floured dough as thin as possible. Might be helpful to do in two sections.
Using a pizza roller, cut strip to desired width. Cover with damp dish towel until ready to cook.
To cook: Add noodles to boiling salted water. Stir occasionally. Done in about 5 minutes. Drain, top with favorite sauce.

Enjoy!
Leat

My Redeemer Lives By Nicole C. Mullen

2010-03-11T07:47:00.001-06:00

From Dr. Christopher's Herbal Legacy Newsletter

2010-03-10T07:42:00.000-06:00

ARTICLE: Homemade Chemical Free & "Green" Cleaning Products

By Sarah M Winn

www.massageyogahealth.com

Today's modern home is loaded with toxic and polluting substances designed to make domestic life easier. The cost of these commercial, chemical-based products can be high -- long term health concerns for the family and environmental pollution caused by their manufacture and disposal. In the US, for example, 1 in 3 people suffer from allergies, asthma, sinusitis or bronchitis (US National Center for Health Statistics). Treatment for these conditions should include reducing synthetic chemicals in the home environment.

For many home-cleaning chores, you can make your own cleaning products using the formulas listed below.

A growing number of commercial non-toxic home cleaning products are also available, as healthier and environmentally responsible alternatives. Your use of these products helps promote the growth of green businesses which are contributing to a sustainable economy.

All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/4 cup baking soda (or 2 teaspoons borax) into 1/2 gallon (2 liters) water. Store and keep. Use for removal of water deposit stains on shower stall panels, bathroom chrome fixtures, windows, bathroom mirrors, etc.

Another alternative is microfiber cloths which lift off dirt, grease and dust without the need for cleaning chemicals, because they are formulated to penetrate and trap dirt. There are a number of different brands. A good quality cloth can last for several years.

Air Freshener: Commercial air fresheners mask smells and coat nasal passages to diminish the sense of smell.

· Baking soda or vinegar with lemon juice in small dishes absorbs odors around the house.

· Having houseplants helps reduce odors in the home.

· Prevent cooking odors by simmering vinegar (1 tbsp in 1 cup water) on the stove while cooking. To get such smells as fish and onion off utensils and cutting boards, wipe them with vinegar and wash in soapy water.

· Keep fresh coffee grounds on the counter.

· Grind up a slice of lemon in the garbage disposal.

· Simmer water and cinnamon or other spices on stove.

· Place bowls of fragrant dried herbs and flowers in the room.

Bathroom mold: Mold in bathroom tile grout is a common problem and can be a health concern. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide (3%) with two parts water in a spray bottle and spray on areas with mold. Wait at least one hour before rinsing or using shower

Dishwashing Soap: Commercial low-phosphate detergents are not themselves harmful, but phosphates nourish algae which use up oxygen in waterways. A detergent substitution is to use liquid soap. Add 2 or 3 tablespoons of vinegar to the warm, soapy water for tough jobs.

Furniture Polish: For varnished wood, add a few drops of lemon oil into a 1/2 cup warm water. Mix well and spray onto a soft cotton cloth. Cloth should only be slightly damp. Wipe furniture with the cloth, and finish by wiping once more using a dry soft cotton cloth.

For unvarnished wood, mix two tsps each of olive oil and lemon juice and apply a small amount to a soft cotton cloth. Wring the cloth to spread the mixture further into the material and apply to the furniture using wide strokes. This helps distribute the oil evenly.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Mix 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 cup vinegar, pour into basin and let it set for a few minutes. Scrub with brush and rinse. A mixture of borax (2 parts) and lemon juice (one part) will also work.

Window Cleaner: Mix 2 teaspoons of white vinegar with 1 liter (qt) warm water. Use crumpled newspaper or cotton cloth to clean. Don't clean windows if the sun is on them, or if they are warm, or streaks will show on drying. The All-Purpose Cleaner (above) also works well on windows. Be sure to follow the recipe, because using too strong a solution of vinegar will etch the glass and eventually cloud it
Tub and Tile Cleaner: For simple cleaning, rub in baking soda with a damp sponge and rinse with fresh water. For tougher jobs, wipe surfaces with vinegar first and follow with baking soda as a scouring powder. (Vinegar can break down tile grout, so use sparingly.)

Back To The Future

2010-03-08T10:06:00.005-06:00

We got our new washing machine about a week and a half ago. It is basically awesome!

It is a Maytag 3000 series. Front load, energy efficient, less water, less soap, yet WAY CLEANER clothes! And the best part, according to Bri, it spins the clothes so fast, especially if using the max extract button, that they come out barely damp!

Which brings me to the title. We decided since it spins so well we didn't need a dryer anymore. We use the cloths line out side most of the time anyway. On rainy and winter days, Bri put up three long rows of rope for a clothes line down stairs.

Onto other news: Here is our new green metal roof!

And lastly, yesterday Brian, Luke Jacob and Caleb built a rack on the trailer to hold more canoes and kayaks! It is a simple design, yet super strong. Best yet, it is low enough for me to easily help Bri load both canoes with out almost dropping them! We are really looking forward to showing more people to joy of canoeing and kayaking at SFL this season.

Leat

Happenings

2010-02-19T08:59:00.003-06:00

What has been happening with us lately?

We are in the process of getting a new ivy green metal roof. The roofers came on Wednesday and put in a full day installing trim. Yesterday was a beautiful day but they just put in a few rivets. They didn't want to start the actual work because we have several vents that they have to remove and replace with pipe or something. The weather report showed rain/snow the next three days and he didn't want to risk having holes in the roof and possible leaks. So hopefully next week they can get busy.

We are gearing up for season 2 of our canoe/kayak rental business. This weekend is the KS Sport, Boat, and Travel Show at the KS Coliseum. It is actually the last event there, since Wichita built the new arena down town. Anyway, Bri is friends with the owners of Action Marine and that is also where he bought his Hobie Kayaks. Ed called a couple weeks ago and asked if Bri wanted to help in their booth and pass out business cards for our business. We went as a family last night. Bri stayed in the booth and the boys and I walked around. We toured every single rv, took in the shark show, the bass fishing show and the last part of the snake show. They did the quail shooting game and took a water safety quiz in order to get the free little flash lights. Bri was able to talk to several people. He is going back again tonight after work and will be there all day Saturday and Sunday.

We finally got our phone issues resolved. We now use two cell phones and no longer have a land line.

We are starting the count down for the end of school. Should wrap up in another couple months.

I am getting gardening fever. Luke made me a list of all the seeds we saved from last year. I am starting to think about where I want to plant everything, plus order my herb seed and give those a go.

That's about all the happenings going on around here.

Hope you have a great weekend!
Leat

Happy President's Day

2010-02-15T11:12:00.001-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T09:56:00.002-06:00

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become [as] sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
1Cr 13:2 And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
1Cr 13:3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed [the poor], and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
1Cr 13:4 Charity suffereth long, [and] is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
1Cr 13:5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
1Cr 13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
1Cr 13:7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
1Cr 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether [there be] prophecies, they shall fail; whether [there be] tongues, they shall cease; whether [there be] knowledge, it shall vanish away.
1Cr 13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
1Cr 13:10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
1Cr 13:11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
1Cr 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
1Cr 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these [is] charity.

Snow

2010-02-04T08:41:00.003-06:00

Outside my front door this morning

You can't see the snow falling in the pictures, but it is coming straight down, no wind. Makes me think God is sifting powdered sugar from heaven down onto our land.

Have a great day!

Leat

Happy 11th Birthday Luke!

2010-01-28T14:52:00.005-06:00

Our oldest boy turns 11 today!

Luke has been such a blessing to us. God sure knew what He was doing by giving us Luke first! He is a wonderful son and great big brother to the other three boys. He is smart as a whip, and a great cook/baker. He can build a campfire in any condition, and is just an all around great kid!

We had Birthday part 1 this morning at breakfast. Here are some pictures.

His gifts from the family were a canteen, pellets for his gun, and a camping knife,spoon,fork utensil.

As per birthday tradition, Luke picked all of the meals for today.

Breakfast: Blueberry half wheat pancaked, mini long john doughnuts, and hard boiled eggs.

Lunch: Meatloaf and corn

Dinner: Bierrocks

Dessert: Strawberry Pie and vanilla ice cream

Leat

Pita Bread

2010-01-26T11:52:00.011-06:00

A few weeks ago Bri went went out to dinner with his parents. They went to a favorite Greek restaurant. He came home excited about the different foods they had eaten.

As you know, I like to take favorite foods from restaurants and try to make homemade versions. I started out looking up a hummus recipe and then decided to make the pita bread to go with the dip.

This recipe comes from the Food Network. I chose it mainly because it made the most pitas from one batch of dough. (16)

Ingredients

* 1 teaspoon dry yeast
* 2 1/2 cups warm water (approximately 105 degrees F)
* 2 cups whole wheat flour
* About 4 cups unbleached all-purpose or bread flour
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

You will need a large bread bowl, a rolling pin, and unglazed quarry tiles or several baking sheets, or alternatively a castiron or other heavy skillet or griddle at least 9 inches in diameter.

Sprinkle the yeast over the warm water in a large bread bowl. Stir to dissolve. Add whole wheat flour, one cup at a time, then 1 cup white flour. Stir 100 times (one minute) in the same direction to activate the gluten in the flour. Let this sponge rest for at least 10 minutes or as long as 2 hours.

Sprinkle salt over the sponge and stir in the olive oil.

Mix well. Add white flour, one cup at a time. When the dough is too stiff to stir, turn it out onto a lightly floured bread board

and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until dough is smooth and elastic. Return the dough to a lightly oiled bread bowl and cover with plastic wrap.

Let rise until at least double in size, approximately 1 1/2 hours.

Gently punch down. Dough can be made ahead to this point and then stored, covered, in the refrigerator for 5 days or less.

If at this time you want to save the dough in the refrigerator for baking later, simply wrap it in a plastic bag that is at least three times the size of the dough, pull the bag together, and secure it just at the opening of the bag. This will give the dough a chance to expand when it is in the refrigerator (which it will do). From day to day, simply cut off the amount of dough you need and keep the rest in the refrigerator, for up to one week. The dough will smell slightly fermented after a few days, but this simply improves the taste of the bread. Dough should be brought to room temperature before baking.

This amount of dough will make approximately 16 pitas if rolled out into circles approximately 8 to 9 inches in diameter and less than 1/4-inch thick. You can also of course make smaller breads. Size and shape all depend on you, but for breads of this dimension the following baking tips apply:

Place unglazed quarry tiles, or a large baking stone or two baking sheets, on a rack in the bottom third of your oven, leaving a one inch gap all around to allow air to circulate. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Divide dough in half, then set half aside, covered, while you work with the rest. Divide dough into eight equal pieces and flatten each piece with lightly floured hands. Roll out each piece to a circle 8 to 9 inches in diameter.

You may wish to roll out all eight before starting to bake. Cover rolled out breads, but do not stack.

Bake 2 at a time (or more if your oven is larger) directly on quarry tiles or baking sheets. Bake each bread for 3 or 4 minutes, until the bread has gone into a full "balloon" or until it is starting to turn lightly golden, whichever happens first.

If there are seams or dry bits of dough - or for a variety of other reasons - your bread may not go into a full "balloon". Don't worry, it will still taste great. The more you bake pitas the more you will become familiar with all the little tricks and pitfalls, and your breads will more consistently "balloon." But even then, if you're like us, it won't always "balloon" fully and you won't mind because the taste will still be wonderful. When baked, remove, place on a rack for about five minutes to let cool slightly, then wrap breads in a large kitchen towel (this will keep the breads soft). When first half of the dough has been rolled out and baked, repeat for rest of dough, or store in refrigerator for later use, as described above. You can also divide the dough into more, smaller pieces if you wish, to give you smaller breads.

What's New?

2010-01-19T08:42:00.004-06:00

I haven't been a very good blogger have I? I tell myself I'll post more often , but as you can see that's not happening. I check it a lot to read other friends' blogs. Looking for inspiration, but come away feeling worse. I don't take a lot pictures, or spend much time sewing. I cook the same foods that I've already posted about.

Basically we lead a pretty boring life. But we like it. It is what God has blessed us with and we are content. Changes could be coming up, but for now we are just waiting on God to lead and praying for wisdom to follow wherever He leads.

The only thing out of the ordinary that's happened is that sickness has hit our house lately, but the boys are just about over it. If they don't regerm each other!!

As most of you know I love learning and trying new home/natural remedies. So their colds/flu gave me some great opportunities to try out things I've been reading about.

I've been wanting to get into essential oils for quite awhile. Last store day I used some birthday $ and bought 6 bottles. Some of the uses I have done are to warm a little olive oil then add 1-2 drops of eucalyptus EO and rub it on the boys backs and chests. I also put drops in hot bath water and in boiling water to breathe in the steam.

We have gone through two batches of GOOT. Rubbing this on the bottoms of feet helps control coughing and gets the garlic into the bloodstream to help fight the bad germs.

Mustard poultices seemed to work well on Nathan and Luke. I warmed up a bit of plain yellow mustard. Rubbed it on their chests,and then laid a wash cloth ran under as hot of water as possible and rung out on top of the mustard.

We have drank large amounts of garlic tea. This is actually a very tasty drink. You boil water in a pan with 2-3 cloves garlic cut in half. Off heat stir in lemon juice and honey.

I made a homemade honey cough syrup that was given to me by a Well Tell Me friend.

It is basically pouring a good amount of honey in a canning jar, add juice of 1/2 a lemon, pieces of fresh ginger root,smashed garlic, and dried grapefruit peel. Let sit a day or so and strain out chunk stuff. Take a tsp of the flavored honey as needed.

What else. Oh yeah, the grapefruit peel tea. God put something wonderful in the peel of grapefruit that helps reduce fevers. At Christmas, I saved a few GF peels, cut them into small pieces and left them to dry on newspaper for a few days. To make the tea bring some water to a boil. Off heat, stir in a few pieces. Let steep about 15 minutes and drink. You can look up all the science of it by googling grapefruit peel tea.

Of course there is the old fashioned Homemade chicken broth for soups.

Basically that's what's new around here. I'll try not to let another month go by without reposting. :)

Leat

My New Year's Wishalutions

2010-01-04T07:15:00.003-06:00

Ah, it's that time again. Make a big list of things I wish to accomplish in this a new year. Like most people, I know most will get laid aside, some sooner than later. But, maybe just maybe THIS time will be different. Maybe This time I'll stick with them long enough to make it a habit.

Here is one of the boys favorite riddles:

Why should you never tell a secret to a clock?

Because time will always tell!

Ok, please pick yourself up off the floor where you fell out of the chair laughing so hard. Better yet, just manage to get to your knees and pray for me and I'll pray for you. We'll stick to most of our wishalutions together. :)

On to the list.

1. Spend more than 5 minutes a day in the Word. Not just read and walk away, but read and meditate, listen for that still small voice.

2. Be a better wife and Mom. Not just go through the motions. Be there in the moment, enjoy my husband and children, spend more time playing with them,reading with them.

3. Only drink coffee on the weekends. I've gotten into a coffee habit. The trouble is I have to doctor it up too much. I have to have sugar and 1/2 & 1/2. A tsp of sugar here, a tsp there; it's adding up (& out!). By the way here & there are my tummy and bum. So, I'm switching to green tea. Which brings me to wishalution #4.

4. Do an exercise dvd or exercise in SOME way at least 30 minutes every day. Along with this comes the drink more water. I need to drink a lot more water.

5. I think I am most excited about #5. Soon I'll be ordering some heirloom seeds and starting a herb garden on my kitchen counter top! I've been thinking about it for a couple years. I get intimidated easily if I think on something too much,but this year I think I'm finally ready to take the plunge.

So there they are. My 2010 Wishalutions. Remember don't just wish me luck! Let's pray for each other!

Leat

Merry Christmas 2009

2009-12-25T08:21:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas!

May you have a blessed Christmas and wonderful New Year.

Here are a couple pictures of our Christmas morning.

The boys all loved their gifts. But we are most thankful for the greatest gift of Jesus birth!

Leat

Cooking

2009-12-10T13:53:00.003-06:00

When all else fails I can always talk about food.

I have been on a soup kick lately. I've made two new recipes that will definitely be repeated throughout the winter. What's even more exciting is that Bri, the not a big soup fan, likes them both!

The first is called Sweet Russian Cabbage soup. I researched this out as a way to use the head of cabbage sitting in the refrigerator plus a plethora of vegetables. It is sooo good! For the beef,I used leftover Swedish meatballs from the night before, ground up in my mini food processor. I also upped the vinegar to 1/4 cup and lowered the sugar to 1/4 cup and used brown instead of white.

Ingredients

* 1 1/2 pounds ground lean beef
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
* 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 4 cubes beef bouillon
* 2 medium carrots, shredded
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 tablespoons white vinegar
* 1/2 cup white sugar
* 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
* 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 2 quarts water, divided
* 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
* 1 head cabbage, cored and cut into wedges

Directions

1. Crumble the ground beef into a large pot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef bouillon cubes, carrots, onion, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Pour in 1 quart of water, and bring to a boil. Stir to break up the beef while heating. Once the soup comes to a boil, cover and simmer for 30 minutes over low heat.
2. Pour in another quart of water, and return to a slow boil. Add garlic and cabbage. Simmer for 25 minutes, until cabbage is tender. Ladle into soup bowls to serve.

The other soup is Panera Broccoli Cheese soup. I have just been craving it. The only changes I made to this was to up the broth to 3 cups and add a 1/2 head of cauliflower. I also just used milk instead of the cream, still turned out great!

Ingredients

* 1 tablespoon melted butter
* 1/2 medium chopped onion
* 1/4 cup melted butter
* 1/4 cup flour
* 2 cups half-and-half cream
* 2 cups chicken stock
* 1/2 lb fresh broccoli
* 1 cup carrot, julienned
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
* salt and pepper

Directions

1.

Sauté onion in butter. Set aside.
2.

Cook melted butter and flour using a whisk over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Stir constantly and add the half & half.
3.

Add the chicken stock. Simmer for 20 minutes.
4.

Add the broccoli, carrots and onions. Cook over low heat 20-25 minutes.
5.

Add salt and pepper. Can be puréed in a blender. Return to heat and add cheese. Stir in nutmeg.

I hope you can try both of these soups soon! You won't be sorry!

Have a great day!

Leat

Happy Birthday Nathan

2009-12-05T15:35:00.004-06:00

Nathan is 4 years old today! He is such a blessing to us,and yet manages to be one of the most challenging of our kids.

Have a great weekend!

Leat

I'm Still Here

2009-12-03T14:14:00.003-06:00

Really I am. I even come to my blog almost every day to read others blogs.

I just haven't felt like I had anything blog worthy to talk about.

I tried a new soup recipe yesterday. It turned out great. I just need to take a picture and then I can post the recipe and blog about how great it is.

I am making a new casserole tonight. Again I'll need to remember a pic and review.

School is trucking right along. Needing to spend more time with Nathan on his preschool stuff though. I notice a huge difference in his attitude when I spend some one on one with him.

I'll do better at keeping up here. Hopefully anyway!

Have a great day!

Leat

Rose Hips

2009-11-17T09:16:00.003-06:00

Sunday afternoon the family got cabin fever so we ran a couple errands and ended up at Dillons for Chinese for dinner. After ward we wandered around and I thumbed through a magazine called Back Home. Browsed an article on making Rose Hip nectar.

So yesterday I was comparing prices on another herb between two companies,one being the Bulk Herb Store. I click on different herbs that catch my eye to read about. I read about Rose Hips. Here is what they say
Herbs: Rose hips - cut
Quantity:

Common Name: Rose hips
Latin Name: Rosa canina

Rose hips are the dried fruit of roses. They contain a good deal of vitamin C and vitamin C complex. Rose hips are especially good for stress and fighting infections. Rose Hips also have bioflavonoid which affects the heart and circulatory system, particularly strengthening the capillaries.

Walking back from the mailbox yesterday,I notice the red berries on the wild rose bush out back behind the big barn.

Light bulb over my head moment! We have rose hips here! So I go grab an ice cream bucket and start picking. This of course captures the attention of the boys,so they bundle up and come help.

Between the 4 of us,(Nathan was napping) we get a little over a cup. Of course there was some taste testing going on too. ;)

During this time I am wishing for a photographic memory of the directions in the article. I think I have the jist,so this morning I took a stab at it.

This is 1/2 the recipe. It was COLD,out there picking!!
1 cup boiling water
1/4 cup honey
1 cup rose hips

Combine all in small saucepan,boil 10-15 minutes until hips "pop" releasing their juice and seeds;stirring and gently mashing.

Strain,pour into jar. Store in a cool,dark place.

The boys can't wait to pick and make more!
I plan on using it as an addition in herbal teas.(1-2 tsp stirred in each cup) Sweet flavor,Vit.C,and healthy to boot!

Some Like it Hot

2009-11-11T07:56:00.010-06:00

We have discovered Popyeye's Chicken! Especially their Red Beans & Rice. So as with all things we love out, I set out to look for a copycat to make at home. I hit the jackpot on my first try! You can adjust the heat level by decreasing or omitting the cayene,but the liquid smoke is essential!!! All of the family except Nathan loved it. He had granola for dinner. ;) Next time, which will be soon, I'll double the recipe so we will have leftovers for the next day.

This is also very budget friendly! Tasty and cheap,can't beat that!!!

Copycat Popeye’s Chicken Red Beans and Rice Recipe
Recipe from http://teasphere.wordpress.com/2009/06/19/copycat-popeyes-chicken-red-beans-and-rice-recipe/

2 cans of light red kidney beans.(undrained)
1 capfull (~1tsp) Liquid smoke.
1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper.
~1/2tsp garlic salt. (probably a bit more)
3-4tbsp real unsalted butter.
(I also throw in a 1/4-1/2tsp of powdered red hot pepper and a dash of garlic powder for good measure.)

Put all ingredients in a pot on medium heat until it begins to boil. Smash most of the beans with spoon as they soften to help thicken everything up and continue to cook and stir often, especially once it really begins to come together or it will scorch. I’d say about 8-10 minutes before smashing some beans, and another 20-30 cooking and stirring until they reach the right consistency which is a touch soupy but thick.

For the rice:

2 cups white rice
1 tblsp butter
1tsp garlic salt

Cook the rice as normal with the addition of butter and garlic salt.

Enjoy!

Leat

Busy,Busy

2009-11-10T07:35:00.002-06:00

Ever have so much to do you just don't know where to start?

That's me today. But once I get get going I know things will be fine and get done. It's just getting started. I'm the same way with ironing. I don't mind when I'm doing it,it's just getting started. Same with exercising. Same with spending time in the Word. Why am I procrastinating?

Here is my want/need to do list for today. I'll get started just as soon as this posts.;)

1. make kombucha
2. make yogurt
3. laundry
4. school
5. exercise
6. quilt
7. read to the boys
8. read to myself ;)
9. sweep,dust
10.make dinner

Have a great day!
Leat

Sweet Home Sounds

2009-11-02T07:46:00.002-06:00

Living with four sons and a fun loving husband,this house can get pretty noisy pretty fast. But right now,I'm hearing some of the sweetest sounds. The older boys are gently strumming their guitars and teaching the younger ones to sing Amazing Grace. Luke generously is letting Nathan strum on his lap harp.

I know it won't last long, so I'd better enjoy it while I can.

Have a great start to the week!
Leat

Caleb's 6th Birthday Party

2009-10-26T07:28:00.004-05:00

Yesterday we celebrated Caleb's birthday with Grandma and Grandpa B,and Aunt R, Uncle A,and their two little boys.

We really enjoy being able to get together,wishing at the same time that our far away family could be there too.

Caleb wanted a Santa Fe Lake Cake this year. I couldn't do the whole lake,so we just did the south cove with the docks and beaches.

Have a great week!
Leat

Birthday Breakfast

2009-10-23T07:34:00.004-05:00

Caleb turns 6 today!!!

As I've said before, on each boys birthday I let them choose the menu for the day. Caleb chose donuts and sausage biscuit sandwiches for breakfast. Lunch is still undecided,but Bri will be bringing Chinese home for dinner! Yay! I made donuts(actually mini long johns) for the first time yesterday and was amazed at how easy the dough went together. We are not big fans of frying,but I went ahead and followed the recipe. SOO GOOD! Then Luke and I filled them with vanilla pudding,and he and Jacob frosted them with a simple frosting that took all of five minutes to make. I'll post all the recipes on my recipe blog. :)

Caleb opened his gifts while I finished getting breakfast to the table.

He got more camping supplies that he had asked for. A camp ax,folding shovel,and another pocket knife for his collection.

The family party is on Sunday. Look for more party pictures on Monday!

Leat

Dreamland VS Reality

2009-10-19T09:19:00.003-05:00

A couple months ago my best friend and her family sold their home,bought a 5th wheel and started traveling with the husband with his job.

Just for fun Bri started checking craigslist for motor homes. We talk a lot about how fun it would be to just load up and head south. Tired?,just pull over and go to sleep. Hungry? I would just take the few steps and whip up dinner while we toodle down the road.

On Saturday morning after running a few family errands,we stopped and looked at some class C's. They are the one's with the van front and rv back. Amazed at all the room they have. The boys loved the bunk over the cab. Back home we had lunch and then went to look at one we found on Craigslist. Spent over two hours looking and even took a test drive. Still just having fun.

Home again,we recheck craigslist and find a class A for sale at an unbelievable price. So we call and get directions. Go down have a look, go for a test drive. Bri tells the guy he is pretty serious. So they start going through EVERYTHING. Starting to think we will actually be writing a check. We leave after 4+ hours with the intentions to come back on Sunday after the batteries have been charged up and with Bri's Dad to check things out.

Sleeping on it, we realized how much money it would actually take just to keep the thing gassed up,it really only slept 5,we really like our tent camping set up,the extra headache of ANOTHER thing to maintain,and on and on. Bri called the guy back and said we would not be coming back after all. It is a great coach at a great price,they will have no trouble selling it.

Although the family was disappointed,we knew it was the best decision. The line between fun dreaming and reality can get thin at times. Praising God for giving us wisdom and common sense in this particular situation.

Have a great week!
Leat

Big Talker or I can do it by my own self!

2009-10-08T07:48:00.007-05:00

Last weekend we camped at El Dorado Lake. Mainly to attend the OK Kids Day activities on Saturday for the boys. They had all kinds of out door activities for the kids to do. Fishing,archery,BB gun and paint ball gun shooting,skeet shooting,tomahawk throwing(or as Michael Pearl calls it,tommyhawk ) jet ski simulator,bird feeder building,and horse back riding.

We started off with fishing. Quickly got bored with not catching anything,and moved onto the horses. The whole time Nathan, big man of 3 3/4 years old that he is, kept saying,"I'm going to ride all by myself!" over and over and over. Meanwhile Mom and the brothers knew better. I'll just let the pictures tell the story.

Leat

Preparing

2009-10-01T13:42:00.003-05:00

Proverbs 6:6-8

Go to the ant,thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: 7 Which having no guide,overseer, or ruler, 8 Provideth her meat in the summer and gathereth her food in the harvest.

I am preparing most of the food today for our families favorite past time. CAMPING!!!

We leave tomorrow after Bri gets home from work. We'll be at El Dorado Lake. It's free admissions weekend and OK Kids Day on Saturday. The kids have been pumped since last years camp out.

Back to the preparedness. The more we camp, the easier the menus come together. I am starting to have standbys that we always have, plus planning meals that can be prepared both on the fire or stove depending on the wind/weather. So, here is what the Brooks family will be dining on this weekend.

Fri. dinner: hamburgers,peach cobbler

Sat. breakfast: breakfast burritos

Sat. lunch: OK Kids provides a free hot dog,chip,drink lunch. All FREE!!!

Sat. dinner:dutch oven chicken and basil dumplings,s'mores

Sun. breakfast: apple oatmeal coffee cake,boiled eggs,fruit

Sun. lunch: sandwiches,chips,raw veggies,ranch dip

Sun. dinner: Hopefully Dillons Chinese! ;)

Watch for lots of pictures next week!

Leat