A Movie, The Moon, and Shining like Stars

I am a list maker.  A lot of times my lists do not get checked off entirely...but making them helps me organize my thoughts.  So if you viewed my "Yearly Goals" tab at the top of the blog you saw some movies that I wanted to watch this year.  And last night I watched one (and it is still January)!  Feels good to check it off the list; especially because it was a feel good movie.

My friend Laurie suggested I watch the movie, A Smile As Big As The Moon, and last night I did.  For those of you who don't know I was a special education teacher for four years, before Darling Daughter was born.  I really liked my job, challenges and all; yet it feels like it was so long ago.  This movie reminded me of some of the good times I had teaching.

One of my favorite memories is teaching an Introduction to Theatre class.  We took an abridged version of Romeo & Juliet and turned it into a play.  We worked really hard on it.  It was not perfect by any means, but the students really stretched themselves.  They were costumes and long curly wigs, sword fights and dancing; and drama, both on and off stage.  It was a rewarding experience.  If you haven't seen The Ringer you should watch it.  At the end they too do a performance of Romeo & Juliet too.

The photos in this post are from our homeschool co-op Christmas play.  I am so thankful for Miss Jessica and the quality teachers that our kids are blessed to have; and how bright they shine under their care and encouragement!

My take-away from A Smile As Big As The Moon, is to follow through on crazy and creative ideas that you believe in; especially when it benefits those who wouldn't normally get to experience such a thing.  I remember when I was applying for special education jobs.  I asked an faculty adviser what he thought about the rural school I was considering.  He said something like, "I think you could do better/get a job in a more prestigious area."  I know he was being honest, which is what I had asked for.  But, I remember thinking, "Don't these kids deserve a quality teacher too?"

When I have gone to the doctor or a hospital in a rural area (where I live), I have often thought this same thing.  I surely hope there is a talented and quality doctor here that is willing to set aside prestige and ego to serve those here who really need their help.

I remember one field trip when we drove down to city a few hours away and saw Les Miserables on stage. Some of the students said that they had never been that far out of their hometown!  It was such a privilege to witness them experiencing new and exciting things; making their world a bit bigger and grander than it had been.

This theme runs throughout the movie and I encourage you to watch it.

I was reminded that no matter how many or few students I am teaching (right now it is our mainly our 3 kiddos), it is my job to help them reach beyond what they think is possible and stretch themselves creatively; dreaming big dreams.

There was a quote I had my students paint on the wall of our classroom, "Reach for the moon; if you miss, you will stand land among the stars!"

Hubby's Homemade Mint Hot Chocolate

I love new beginnings, don't you?  This blog has a new name, a new background, and new tabs to more accurately reflect the blog's overall theme.  Check out the "Yearly Goals" tab to see how I am kicking off 2013. 

It was so nice today when the kids were able to get all their winter stuff on (helping each other and doing it without my assistance).  They had a blast playing in the snow and making a snow science museum.  I have no idea what a snow science museum is, only that my kids are having fun building one.:)

In light of my goals for 2013, I was the good Mommy and called them in for hot chocolate before their faces were too red.  Hubby gave me this idea the other night to make homemade mint hot chocolate; so easy and delicious.
  
   Hubby's Homemade Mint Hot Chocolate

   Step #1:  Gather the supplies (Andes mints- I got these crushed mints on sale at Aldi after
   Christmas for $1.30; they are usually quite a bit more- you could use whole Andes mints too.  You
   can crush up candy canes too although that is harder, literally).  Also you will need hot water,
   mugs, spoons, candy canes and hot cocoa mix.

  

   Step #2:  Boil water for the hot cocoa (I like the whimsy of using a teapot).

   
    Step #3:  Add mints to the bottom of the mug

   
  
   Step #4:  Pour hot water over mints and stir.

   Step #5:  Add your favorite hot cocoa mix and stir

  Step #6:  Add a candy cane if desired (careful because it cracks and breaks when the water is hot. 
  Make sure the drinkers know there may be large candy chunks in their drink before it melts).  You   
  can also use a candy cane for dipping too.  Let the drink cool some before you serve it, you can
  always add an ice cube.  Whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles would be a fun add-on.

 

     Step #7:  Enjoy a cup for yourself and the smiling faces that think you are the best!
 

Fresh Resolve

Dictionary.com defines the word resolve like this:

1.  "to come to a definite or earnest decision about; determine (to do something):  

      I have resolved that I shall live to the full."

First of all let me assure you that this post is not to try to convince you to homeschool.  Hubby and I believe that each family must pray about and decide how God is leading them in regards to schooling and then obey His direction.  We have a diverse group of friends who have chosen public school, private school, and homeschooling.  We see our friends thriving as families when:  they are being faithful to the path laid before them (Proverbs 3:5-7), they are involved in their children's education (no matter where that education is taking place), and they are intentional in parenting their children and knowing the condition of their flocks (Proverbs 27:23).

We are no experts, but we do have some experience.

Here are a few things I have learned over the past 5 years of homeschooling.

1.  Make sure you and your spouse are united in your decision, with each other and with the Lord. Whatever schooling decision you make will present challenges.  It is so much easier if you both are on the same page.  I was the one resistant to homeschooling at first...but God and Hubby were both clearly leading that way, so when I decided to follow (and stop worrying what others would think) there was a lot of grace and peace that followed as a result.

2.  It is hard (no matter what schooling option your family chooses, it is going to hard- it requires time, commitment, resolve and being intentional and involved...My dear friend Tami is a wonderful example of this.  Her children go to public school and she has always been involved- from praying for the school, to room volunteer, to subbing, to reaching out to needy students, she is a presence in her kids school and knows the teachers and students that are influencing her kids.  This obviously takes time, energy, and saying "no" to a lot of other things, but Tami counts it worth it).

3.  There will be tears, but there will be silver linings too (when reading finally clicks or their face lights up when they figure out a story problem on their own).

4.  What looks good on paper may not work out in reality.  Be prepared, but be flexible too...don't force something that is not working for anybody.

5.  "It doesn't have to be fun, but it does need to get done" (I read this in a homeschooling book, and at first it bothered me, but, I have used it many times.  I used to feel pressure to make everything amazing, and then I realized if we always do that... the house will never be clean, I won't have energy for other important things, and not everything is fun at any school anyway.  I want my kids to love learning, but there are somethings that are just plain mundane, albeit important).  Darling daughter likes to try and make math fun by drawing creatures out of the answers...3's become clouds, 5's become butterflies, and 11's get put in jail.  

6.  On the other hand, give yourself grace.  Realize that sometimes, instead of plowing through, it is okay to take a nature walk break or read together longer and slow down a bit. 

7.  They are learning.  You may feel like they'll never get something or aren't really listening...then they bring it up later and show excitement for it.  Yes!

8.  Network with other people...they can be a wealth of knowledge and support, but in the end you and your husband need to decide what is best for your family.  Resist the urge to compare, oh we women are bad at this!  Don't be afraid to do something "out-of-the box".  My sister-in-law is great at this- she requested her child to go half days instead of full days at an "all day" kindergarten (because that was best for her child and family).  She also is homeschooling their 4th grader this year (for the first time) but is not homeschooling her other two children (because this is what is best for him and their family at this time).  Our kids are enrolled part-time in a nearby school in order to be in a homeschooling co-op that provides some things we can't on our own.  Again, I am not saying this is best for others, but what works for us at this time.

9.  One of our rules at Roots & Wings Academy is "do your best".  Unfortunately I was not doing my best last year.  I was too distracted with phone calls, the computer, housework, and my desires that I was not doing my best with school.  So, insert the fresh resolve, and this year (only 3 days in) is going a lot better.  I was convicted that I needed to say "no" to more things so I could do the things that God had already asked me personally to do (being a respectful and considerate wife, an available and kind mom, and a prepared and intentional teacher).  It seems you get more criticism than pats on the back for attempting the above mentioned, which can cause you to be tempted to throw in the towel and long for things that will be more public, more praised, and just plain "easier".  I am far from making the grade, but in the resolve and follow through there is freedom and peace indeed.

A few years ago a friend gave me the book "Youniquely Woman" by Kay Arthur, Emilie Barnes and Donna Otto.  I am really enjoying reading it.  In the front my friend wrote, "May you walk as God has called you to walk".  I love that.  I don't need to try and be someone else, but I also need to be faithful to what He has asked me to do, with the strength and grace He supplies.

So, all this to say, let the school year begin!  May we all have a great one, by being faithful to what He has called us each to, and walk with our heads held high as we carry it out by His grace, encouraging one another and cheering each other on to do our best.

Here's to fresh resolve!

 

Quality, Simpilcity, and Savings

As you know I like to save money!  I get a thrill out of great deals.  I am pretty loyal to products that are a blend of quality and value.  I even am willing to pay more on products that really impress me.  For example,  I drive an hour round trip a few times a year for DELICIOUS Amish doughnuts (and I am not a huge doughnut fan, but there are that good and worth the drive).

Recently I tried to skimp and save money on our garage bags.  NOT a good idea.  I think I have tried this before and it has never worked in my favor.  The bags (pictured above) were advertised as earth-friendly and were not expensive- too things that drew me to purchase them.  But, they are NOT sturdy and rip easily (probably why they are earth friendly because they decompose quickly).  Hubby and I agreed not to buy these again.  I am going to bite the bullet and buy the sturdy ones, with the built-in drawstrings, and maybe even the vanilla scent- no more (stinky) trash spilling on us!

I am sure many of you already do this, but I love Target's dollar bins.  The kids and I found fun party invites, thank you cards, favors, and goody bags there a few weeks ago.  The kids were excited to pick them out and I was excited about the price.  We also look in the bins this time of year because they usually have classic paperback books (for $1 each) that we get for school.  This year we found Wizard of Oz, and Alice In Wonderland.  A great way to add to your home library without having to worry about losing library books or having to read and return them within a few weeks.  Don't get me wrong, I like going to the library (and especially enjoy summer reading programs) but sometimes spending a few dollars on books is worth avoiding the hassle and gas of going to the library.  I also like shopping for books at garage sales and Goodwill too.

Michael's also has $1 and low-priced bins that we often find treasures in too.

I have done extravagant birthday parties before, and while everyone should do at least one (and then you most likely will realize you don't want to do it again), I have learned (I think) that simple is better.  This year for youngest's 4th birthday we had some friends over (a reasonable amount) and ate a homemade cake (you can save a bundle by decorating with things you have on hand already- toy cars, stickers on toothpicks, Oreo's (okay we almost never have these on hand, but I have bought them a few times to use for cake decorating), coconut (easy to dye and turn into things like grass, fur, etc.)  I bought the cake mix (had coupons and it saves on hassle) and frosting (we dyed it the color we wanted).  We opened presents and the kids played on the slip 'n slide and sprinkler.  Less than two hours and the party was done.  It was so nice, simple and fun.  Usually I am stressed out ahead of time (oh yeah Sister L was there to help- enlist a helper- this lowers stress for sure)!

I am sure you are all familiar with Goodwill and Salvation Army stores and the great deals that are waiting to be discovered there.  We went to our local store yesterday and were thrilled when Hubby found these brand new looking Teva sandals for $6!  A few tips when thrift shopping...take your time and donate.  If you have a few hours then you can dig through and find the treasures.  Also, if you donate at our Goodwill (prior to your shopping trip) you get a 20% off coupon for most merchandise.  We also found a new crockpot there and a grill set that we needed; so fun to treasure hunt.  We aren't always so successful, but when you are it sure pays off.

Lastly, I have mentioned Paper Coterie before (thank you Mom Creative on the introduction) and I am pleased as punch with this Father's Day book from them.  They often offer great deals on their products (which can be pricey), but the quality is great!  Hubby said this is his favorite gift ever from the kiddos.  The book was already done, we just had to drop pictures in and then they kids answered questions about Dad.  The book has many more pages, here are just a few of the highlights.

Go check out www.papercoterie.com, I would love to hear what you think.  Go make something and post it, we'd love to see it.

The Difference a Year Makes

The earth rotates around the sun once.  A year passes.  We grow.  We change.  What a difference a year makes.

The peonies that once grew in my Poppy's yard; moved to my Mom's yard, then transplanted to our yard...grow thicker, more beautiful, more hearty this year than last.  One year of waiting brought more beauty.

We have gotten 10 "no's"....10 "not yets"...on Baby #4, waiting to adopt the one we love already.  Waiting longer than we anticipated.  Yet we grow closer, we love deeper, we communicate more openly....10 years, now almost 11; gift of grace, this marriage.  One year of waiting of made love truer.

He, youngest, grew up.  Almost four, and potty-trained just in time for birthday.  A faster runner, more independent, feet large like bricks wearing size 11 now.  He with the light in eyes and smile that melts, he grew.  One year of growing led to exit from toddlerhood to big boy emerging.

Last year I canned jam; delicious but taxing.  This year I did freezer jam, easier.  One year of "wising up" helped me learn that superwoman isn't a real person and I don't have to do all the things I think I should.  Celebrate small successes and shake off the guilt that accuses when you say "no" for the sake of margin and what is best for the family.  One year of learning (from many failures and some successes) births sweeter fruit.

He and she helped me pick strawberries this year.  They worked hard, they eased the load, they got along.  A great reminder to not give up, but keep going; keep working at being better parents and better nurturers of their precious lives; and keep entrusting their ultimate well-being to their Father God. Galatians 6:9  "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."  One year of growing produced more maturity.

One year older, and she is as tall as a bean pole...legs that don't end.  Highlighted hair and asking when she can wear deodorant.  She unloads the dishwasher now, not just the silverware (sometimes without complaining).  She is growing up; on inside and out.  One year down the road leads to new chapters being read and others waiting to be written.

What a difference one year makes.  Things you thought would happen don't and things you didn't plan on happen; and you are surprised.  Unpredictable weather brings a beautiful plant of tangled roots, seed-bearing fruit, and freezer jam (not canned).  You look back, thankful for the hard even though it's hard.  Thankful for the blessings, growing even more precious with the passing of one year.

Psalm 90:12  "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Joy Comes In Unexpected Places

Rewind.  Over 10 years ago I walked through the gun aisle of a sporting goods store and started crying as Hubby looked at guns.  I did not grow up with guns around.  Since I was a teacher, my connection with guns was hearing about school shootings and gun accidents.  Fear dictated my view of guns.

Fast forwarded to today.  I still don't feel real comfortable with guns, but I support my hubby's hobby and collection.  I have even attended a gun safety class and shot handguns several times.  Well, the other day I shot Hubby's new AR build and you know what?  I actually enjoyed myself by the second shot.  And I checked another thing off my Bucket List; I hit the target!

Joy comes in unexpected places.

We have had a lot of loss with the adoption process.  10 babies, not ours.  Still waiting, much longer than we expected.  Grief knocks throughout the days; but joy does too.  Joy came while I was doing something I feared.

Joy found in the three, right here, collected the bullet shells, once fired, a treasure hunt.  Find casings, memorials of the power displayed.  Keep counting...

#2081  Done with school for the year- quite the milestone.  We learned, we cried, we grew, we finished; joy.

#2082  Darling daughter started a Horse Blog and stopped crying about writing, when she got to use the keyboard to write.  She loves to use exclamation points!!!!!!!!!  Quite fitting for a girl who approaches life with such enthusiasm!

#2084  After big break from phonics and tears of frustration (from student and teacher) we found a reading program that works for sunshine-head.  He is one who can honestly say, "Hooked on Phonics worked for me!":)  So proud of you son.

#2085  For the flexibility of youngest while the others do school.  So ready to learn...chiming in with answers.  Your turn will come this fall buddy.

Today, let's bring joy to unexpected places...like a dentist office, a stressful work environment,  a lonely neighbor, a spouse who could use a helping hand, a prayer offered for a difficult situation.


Jeremiah 31:13-14  
"Then (she) will rejoice in the dance, and the young men and the old, together, for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and give them joy for their sorrow.  And I will fill the soul of the priests with abundance, and My people shall be satisfied with My goodness', declares the LORD."

He and I

He and I, we battle hard...
Sometimes with each other
Sometimes together against the dark

This boy, so fervently prayed for
This sunshine-headed son
The Light battles for him

He feels it; right and wrong
He senses justice; what is fair
He is strong; he wrestles fear
He is kind; he reaches out

He is called...and the dark is not happy

Anger rages...
so we call out
We fight the dark with Him
We know who wins
We look forward to the Day

We wait
We walk this road
Together
He and I.

I love you; always!
Love, Mom

Thankful for flavors

Breakfast Muffins

Ingredients:
Wheat bread
Butter
Sea Salt
Pepper
Eggs
Cheese
Green Onions (optional)
Crumbled bacon or sausage

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Grease muffin pan with butter
Roll out a piece of wheat bread with a rolling pin
Butter bread and put it in muffin hole (shape to fit)
Cook eggs until the yoke is almost firm (sea salt and pepper to taste)
Place egg on top of bread (in muffin hole)
Put onions and meat either on top of bread or on top of egg (your choice)
Place a square slice of cheese on top of egg
Bake about 15 minutes

Disclaimer: These are somewhat labor intensive, but fun and delicious too. Include your family in on the process to have more helping hands (one child could roll the bread and butter, another could assemble the meat and cheese while you cook the eggs).


French Bread with Fresh Herb Dipping Oil
This summer my friend Beth and I had fun preparing a snack, for the Family Camp ladies, with an Italian Theme. We bought sparkling juice and Meijer Gold juices (in various flavors) and then made dipping oils for french bread. We cut fresh rosemary, pineapple sage, regular sage, basil, and garlic chives from camp's garden and then added olive oil to them. We also added bread dipping seasonings to some. It was very easy, tasted good, and looked good too.


Try these additions to your next spaghetti night (juices and bread and dip); and watch them gobble it up!:)