Recent News

Due date is 2/1/09...no news as to boy or girl yet

As of today 9/29/2008 - IT'S A BOY!! James Christopher Waters Edge. I'd like to call him "Jay" for short though.

**If anyone is just dying to get something for the baby, please check out my registry at Babies R'Us. You can look it up by using my name. I also am looking to get one of the following: http://www.mosesbasket.com/baskets.html

Thanks to Kelly and Cheryl, they gifted us with a beautiful Moses basket on Sunday. It has a taupe colored mattress cover and bumper bad. I am very excited. I have been looking for an affordable one, as the ones online, are out of my budget at the moment. Thanks again you two! It is much appreciated and will be much used.

Update: 12/22/08: I'm actually further along then originally expected, and closer to 35 weeks. Had a sonogram today, and the baby is about 6 lbs already, instead of the usual 4 lbs by this time frame. A very chunky baby. I have been told to rest, so spent most of the day in bed, and will be doing a lot of that the next few days to hopefully forestall the baby coming later rather than sooner.

1/5/09: Still here waiting for the baby to arrive. This is the first baby that hasn't been overly anxious to arrive too soon. Good on one hand, but frustrating in the fact, that I've never had to wait so long. The wait is starting to get on my nerves.

1/27/09: Scheduled to be induced on 2/3/09 (Taylor's 20th birthday, IF the baby doesn't show up on his own.)

Marinara Sauce

* I am going to use my tomatoes up before they go bad, instead of using canned tomatoes. (I need roughly 4 cups diced tomatoes)

- makes about 7 cups -

Ingredients
2 twenty-eight ounce cans Italian plum tomatoes with basil (preferable those labeled 'San Marzano')

1/4 cup fine-quality olive oil

2 ounces fatback or salt pork (optional)

3 tablespoons minced onion

2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced

Salt and pepper to taste

6 leaves fresh basil, torn (optional)

Pinch dried oregano

Procedure
1. Remove tomatoes from the can,, reserving the juice in which they are packed. Using your hands, crush the tomatoes, gently remove and discard the hard core from the stem end, and remove and discard any skin and tough membrane. Set aside.

2. Put oil in a large, nonreactive saucepan over medium-low heat. If using fatback, cut it into small pieces and add to the pan. Saute for about 5 minutes or until all fat has been rendered. Remove and discard fatback.

3. Then add onion. Saute for 3 minutes or until translucent and just beginning to brown. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds or until just softened (see Note). Stir in tomatoes, reserved juice, and salt. Raise heat, and bring to a boil. Immediately reduce heat to a very low simmer and cook for about 1 hour or until flavors have combined and sauce is slightly thickened. (If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook for an additional 15 minutes.

4. Stir in basil, oregano, and pepper, and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and serve.

Weekly Menu

Monday: Taco Samosas, salad, cantelope, tea
Tuesday: Roast Chicken, herbed potatoes, fresh bread
Wednesday: Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella, salad
Thursday: Mexican Tortilla Soup, fresh tortillas
Friday: Baked Shells with Pesto and Home made Marinara (too many tomatoes ;-) )
Saturday: TBD
Sunday: TBD

Missing in Action

I've been sick the past few days and have been primarily in bed, as getting up makes my head ache. I was startled out of sleep to realize that I hadn't been out to the land since Wednesday, so that meant that the chickens didn't get fed or watered since then. They have two watering bottles that I fill every two days, and a large metal feeder that I keep filled for them. I was more worried about the water situation than the feed, due to the heat the past few days.

I got up first thing this morning (Praise God I feel some better) and hesitantly drove out to the land. I was really scared to approach the coop, certain that I would chickens sprawled out from lack of water. As I started walking towards the coop, I saw a bunch of feathers on the bottom of the coop, and my heart dropped. It was the rooster. He started crowing as soon as he saw me, and I was relieved. The girls were fine too, they only had a little water left around the red lip of the water container, which was better than none. I filled up both containers from the well with clean, cold water. Their food bucket was half full. Whew! I was so worried. Thank you God for taking care of my chickees for me while I was sick.

I haven't been able to wash clothes or pick up the house while I have been sick, and heaven knows no one here will do it unless asked. Since I didn't ask it didn't get done.

Off to do laundry....

Are you?

Excerpt from Nick who is sick of "patriots" - makes you think......at least it did me.

"I know that I’m singing to the choir here, but I posted this rant my blog and thought I would share it here. Also i would like to thank Douglas in CT for his help in editing this and making it a much better read.

Lately I have talked to quite a few people who claim to be patriots. Matter of fact, it seems to be all the rage today to wave the flag and claim to be some form of patriot. However, in my opinion, most of these people are lying to themselves and everyone around them. Quite simply. in my opinion, a patriot is someone who supports and defends the constitution of the United States of America. That means every right granted by God and enumerated in the bill of rights. It doesn't mean you support the constitution except for the Amendments you don't like. That would just make you another permutation of Demo-Marxist or Neo-Fascist. Quite simply, a patriot is someone who takes their duty as a citizen of the United States seriously. They uphold the law of the land - even when it comes to Illegal Immigration; and seek to lessen the interference of Government upon our lives, because they know that our government has extended beyond the reach of its constitutional authority.

Good patriots stand up and take responsibility for their actions and for themselves. They keep a good rifle with enough ammunition to supply it in their homes, because they know that some day they may be called upon to defend the rights they hold so dear. Real patriots store enough food and water in their home to be prepared for whatever misfortune they find themselves in. They do not plan on letting the government take care of them should the worst happen. Real patriots know that respect is earned, not legislated or given away. They seek to be an example to others through clean living and by holding true to their values. They know that by doing this they will command the respect of those around them. Patriots never demand that an opinion or belief offensive to their own be silenced or corralled into "free speech zones". Nor do patriots seek to dictate the lives of others, interfere with their enjoyment of their rights, or try to tell others what they need and don't need. Patriots understand that a man doesn't need a hand out, but that he needs to be given an opportunity to work for an honest wage eventually. When a man is hungry enough, and cold enough from sitting outside in the rain, he will work. Lastly real patriots always question the motives and actions of their government. This is because they know that if they do not, then they may become that government’s servant - instead of the government rightfully being their servant.

If you can't say honestly in your heart that you meet the above description, then you are not a patriot.

If you only have a week’s food in your pantry, thinking that the government will take care of you in the worst of times, then you are not a patriot.

If you spend your money going to clubs and buying fancy electronics, you are a consumer slave not a patriot.

If you think that respect is not earned but must be legislated, then you are not a patriot.

If you think that opposing views, no matter how offensive, deserve to be silenced in order to bring harmony to our world, then you are not a patriot.

If you think government hand-outs and uncontrolled welfare are perfectly acceptable, and do not see it as an unjustifiable punitive tax on our most productive members of society, then you are not a patriot.

If you think our government is infallible and must be obeyed without question, you are not a patriot.

If you think that our country’s borders and national sovereignty are not worth defending, then you are not a patriot.

If you think that America has a responsibility to put the welfare of other nations before its own, then you are not a patriot.

If you live in debt to support a lifestyle you cannot afford, then you are not a patriot.

If you hire illegal aliens so that you can save a few dollars, then you are not a patriot.

If you feel that nothing is worth fighting and dying for, then you are not a patriot.

Lastly, if you feel that there is no way that “we the people” could bring our public servants back under our rightful control, then you are not a patriot.

In conclusion, I am tired of hearing from Demo-Marxists and Neo-Fascists about how patriotic they are. The fact is that they are not patriots. They are the cancer that is devouring this great nation. They are the same people who will never question authority or hold it accountable. These are the same people who spend all their money on flashy jewelry, expensive consumer electronics and mortgages they cannot afford. They are not true to their word, and often do not repay their debts. Every hurricane season you will see the loudest of these so-called "patriots" standing in the government hand-out lines, because they refuse to prepare - even though they know full well that they live in a disaster prone area.

I am a patriot. I am tired of carrying the dead weight of consumer slaves on my back. I am tired of paying taxes so the lazy can sit at home and watch TV. I am tired of these same lazy consumer slaves demanding that I surrender my Rights because they think that if I do, then the trains will run on time. I am tired of being told that I will respect this group of people, whether they have earned it or not, because the government says I have to. I am sick of hearing these same people say that we have no right to defend our borders or our precious national sovereignty. I am sick of hearing about companies who value the dollar more than liberty, and displace Americans from honest work by hiring illegal aliens. Lastly, I fear for my children who will have to live with the consequences resulting from the actions and decisions of these consumer slaves."

Would you allow this to happen to you?

Please click on the link and the read the article, and watch the video links.

http://www.infowars.com/?p=2722

While I have been raised to respect LEO, in this case they deserve none. Just like during Hurricane Katrina. When will it end? When will citizens stand up and defend their rights, en masse? The citizen on the porch is totally in the right, and the LEO is out of line. The LEO really needs to stay off private citizen's property, it is only a matter of time before an LEO is shot for their disrespect, and sanctioned illegal activities. We can only pray for some sense on the part of these "government" officials.

Farm Report

No matter how much I water, prune and fertilize the tomatoes they just aren't doing well in these over 100 degree temps...the tomatoes have stopped growing, and are turning red, just a little bigger than a cherry tomato....

The watermelons and basil appear to be doing the best.

Lost one of the Rhode Island Reds the other day, don't remember if I posted about it. I found it with it's head caught between the cage wires, so it may have choked itself, or died from lack of water. I have been putting a little pedialyte in the chicken's water to help with the heat, and it appears to have perked them up a little. They are growing so fast! Peter and LuLu need a little bit more exercise than they are getting now. I have been cleaning LuLu's damaged foot with peroxide and neosporin every night. It has some black places on it, but am not sure if it is just dirt or if it is getting infected. I inspected her foot, pressed it a little, with no reaction from her. There isn't any pus or swelling, and it isn't bleeding any...she is eating, drinking and hopping around so I think she will be fine. The vet said that as long as it doesn't get really black and stays mostly pink, she should be okay. I may take her in Friday, just for him to get a quick look at it.....get his opinion if she is good to go, or if she should be put down.

The weather is so hot and dry, and I noticed that grass fires have started up again in the area. Passing by big swatches of blackened grass is very discouraging, and I pray that nothing burns at the land....

The hens aren't laying, I guess it's too hot. There isn't any reason, other than that or they are just defective hens...they haven't really dependable in their laying the entire time I have had them...so it's possible, they just aren't a good layer type of chicken.

There's also a rat in the garage, probably lured by the chicken and rabbit feed, if not the chicks themselves. I am a little worried about the rat getting into the chick's cage and killing them, so will buy some Decon tomorrow or stick traps. I'll see what we can find.

Whew! it's been a hot couple of days, and I am drained of energy. On Father's Day, my sister and her family came out to the land for a BBQ. The guys hit golf balls, and April and I sat on the swing under the trees and talked. It was really nice, and a breeze was blowing.

My niece spent the night on Sunday, so I took her back home on Monday morning, and all the kids went swimming. We then picked up Lauren's friend Cheyenne, who spent the night last night, and has been spending time with Lauren all day.

The weather is 103, so I have all the curtains closed, the AC on about 74, and the fans going to help keep the house cooled down. I had to lay down earlier for about an hour, as I was zapped of energy. Got up at 2:00 p.m. and cleaned the playroom, my bedroom, foyer, living room, and bathroom. I then put a load of laundry in, and now I have no energy again. Exercise and vitamins just aren't helping anymore, and I am at a loss of what to do....hmmm??

On a side note, I received a very threatening post from someone today. It didn't really make any sense, so it was either a joke, or left for the wrong person.

Everyone please pray for our bunny LuLu. Baeta (the dog) bit her foot yesterday ripping off the side of her food. The piece was dangling (sorry so graphic) so Rodney and I clipped it off, and I poured peroxide over it, and smeared it with the Petro Carbo Salve. I will alternate with the Neosporin, and hopefully she will survive. She appears okay, as she is hopping all over everywhere and still eating and drinking. So, that's a positive sign. My daughter's friend Cheyenne was a little traumatized, as she and Lauren were playing with the bunny at the time of the attack.

My daughter wanted me to get mad at Baeta, but we told her that's not how it works. It's our job to keep the bunny's safe, Baeta is just acting on instinct. So, next time she needs to play with the bunny inside or close the garage door tighter.

Saturday

I just wanted to apologize for my site being down the past few days. I have been doing much needed maintenance, and house cleaning of the site, not to mention inappropriate pictures were hacked onto my site. That was shocking.

This morning I was up early to head to the land and water the garden. My tomatoes are coming along great. I get so excited when I see more watermelons and cantelopes each times I go out. My corn is about done. I want to harvest the corn silk to make tea with, it's supposed to be good medicinally for its diuretic properties for the treatment of urinary problems. It is recommended as "an effective and harmless dieting food" according to John Lust's "The Herb Book" (available from Richters). The tea is also used as an enema. Here's a link to help out http://www.richters.com/newdisplay.cgi?page=./QandA/Medicinal/Medicinal.html&cart_id=9523631.4618

I will need to make sure it is completely dried before using, as it will be more purgative than helpful.

Rodney and Taylor brought out another load of firewood from the house to the land. They also managed to bring the grill I use for wood fires, Lauren's play house, and the swing set, complete with porch swing.

My niece's birthday party was this evening, and it was fun. The kids swam for about 4 hours from 6 pm to 10 pm. They didn't even want to come out of the pool for pizza, cake and ice cream. We finally had to leave, as we had quite a distance to drive home, and we have church in the morning. Hannah fell asleep on the way home, and is now sacked out on the couch. I will need to put her in the bed in a few minutes. Lauren is also asleep. They had stuff noses, not sure if it was from swimming so I rubbed a Mentholatum on their chests and under their noses to help them breathe easier, and get some rest.

Tomorrow is the first Father's Day without my dad. It's going to be weird, as he was always here for the day, and I would cook for him and Rodney.

Proverbs 11:13

"A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue."

Okay, here's another one for me "A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth." v.16

"A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult." Proverbs 12:16

"Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." v. 18

"A prudent man keeps his knowledge to himself, but the heart of fools blurts out folly." v. 23

This is in my readings for tonight.

Today was Lauren's tennis lessons. We only stayed for an hour as she started feeling sick. I think she was over heated and dehydrated. The coach was feeling ill also. It was over100 degrees. I think we need to move the lessons to 9 a.m. instead of 10:30 a.m. It might make all the difference.

On the way home we stopped at Sun Harvest and bought the makings for Rodney's birthday dinner (a late one). I bought two organic t-bone steaks, russet potatoes, fresh french bread, and we bought a birthday cake. I also purchased a pound of elderberries, a large bag of bay leaves, and a large bag of red raspberry leaf. I also purchased some Arnica Montana for my medicine chest.

The steak was wonderful if I do say so myself. Afterwards, we headed to the land where the kids flew kites with Rodney. I checked on the chickens, watered the garden, fruit trees, and walnut trees. We then went on a small hay ride. The girls picked several cat o'nine tails for me to decorate with, and I harvest a handful of Fever few leaves to dehydrate and set aside as part of my herbal medicine chest.

We came home and ate some of Rodney's birthday cake. The girls decorated it themselves with LOTS of blue icing.

Well, I am off to clean the kitchen, make some laundry soap, and start the laundry.

Have a good night!

*********************

Cutting Back

Oh no, not another rambling, philosophical discussion on cutting back and being prepared! No, not really. I am just sharing some thoughts on what I want to do on saving additional money. I will be canceling my home phone, Internet, quite possibly the DirectTV, and decreasing my auto coverage.

While I have a couple of Internet related businesses, that in no way is an excuse to keep the Internet. Not when I have access to two libraries with Internet, and the local DQ has WiFi. I'll save about $70.00 a month, and use the free access around me.

Other than getting a clothesline, and turning the AC up to 80, not much else I can cut out. The house is the biggest expense, which will God's help we will sell soon, and get out from under that payment.

I am also committing to staying home more, because of the gas situation. This will be difficult, but I am going to try, there is just too many errands and things to do to keep the kids busy this summer.

I had someone tell me recently that I needed to pray more. Pray more? They obviously don't know me very well, in addition, I don't believe in harassing God. He doesn't forget. I'll pray a couple of times, leave it in his hands, and wait for the answer. Listening for God's answers to prayers, is just as important, but often times a neglected aspect of a person's prayer life.

******************
Off to make laundry soap and get the laundry started.

Just wanted to send a KUDOS out to Cheryl (friend and pastor's wife) who was recently introduced to the "Fly Lady" concept, and is working on getting everything in order. Good job Cheryl! Don't get discouraged! I will be praying for motivation and strength for you!

My mom is off on a cruise with her husband and MIL on Monday, so please keep them in prayer. In addition, my mom fell and hurt herself the other day. She is very badly bruised and sore, which should make the cruise EXTRA special.

Election Coverage

Well, I am well and truly disgusted with the two choices we as Americans are given for our presidential candidates. Historically I have voted Republican, but over the past few years, there has been little difference in either party's candidates. I am sure die-hard Republicans won't agree, but they are fooling themselves. I am absolutely appalled that many Christians are actually considering voting for John McCain. Voting the lessor of the evils, is still voting for evil, and how will you explain that to God?

I choose to vote for candidates who claim a personal relationship with God, openly and publicly. John McCain won't do this, and can't do this. He is not a born again Christian. That alone should prevent ANY Christian from voting for him. But sadly that is not the case. Many friends and family members are voting for him, ONLY because he is a Republican. My friends, God IS NOT a Republican. Look past John McCain's public stance on issues of abortion and immigration. He talks a good game, but he is actually a liberal in Republican clothing. His views on traditional marriage are not good, don't take at face value his statements on his campaign website regarding the issues, look at his voting record, this tells you where his heart and mind REALLY are.

I probably mentioned this before, but I have officially renounced my membership in the Republican Party and will classify myself as an Independent, though I have strong ties with both the Constitution Party and the Libertarian Party, though I lean more strongly towards the Constitution Party http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_Party_%28United_States%29

Unfortunately, as of today, I can find no information that the Constitution Party will be allowed to have their candidate on the ballot in November. I was hoping that Ron Paul would decide to run as an Independent, but he held good to his promise not to do so, much to my dismay. Since, Dr. Paul is out of the picture, if necessary, I will write in Charles Baldwin as my candidate of choice. I believe he totally fits my belief and values system, and is the ONLY candidate that does for ANY Christian.

I implore each and every Christian to use the Bible as the ONLY filter in which to view the presidential candidates. If you fail to do this, then the fate of fellow American Christians rest in the hands of the blind and stubborn.

Republican DOES NOT equal Godly and Righteous.

Proverbs 10:9 - "The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out."

Proverbs 11:14 - "For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure."

Proverbs 13:15-16 - "Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard. Every prudent man acts out of knowledge, but a fool exposes his folly."

***********************
What I am looking for in a candidate?

Does he/she uphold biblical values? (support traditional marriage, pro-life)

Does the candidate hold the Constitution as the supreme law of the land? Are they a strict constitutionalist?

Do they have a personal relationship with Christ?

Do their personal beliefs and values agree with mine?

Do they support my 2nd Amendment rights?

Do they support the right of parents to choose the appropriate education for their child (private and/or home school)?

Are they against raising taxes?

Are they against a guest worker policy, amnesty for illegal aliens, and for a tighter border?

Are they against the US involvement in the UN, World Bank, NAFTA, NATo, and more global organizations?

Garden

Garden is steadily producing, but not enough to really can. Will need to plant even more next year. I did manage to dry entire container of tomatoes. I will keep doing that, until I have enough that I think will last me through the winter to add to soups and stews.

Picked cucumbers tonight. Melons going great, as well as, the cantelopes. The corn is almost ready on the few scraggly rows that were planted first, and that just didn't take. I will be doing it different next year.

Took a basket of vegetables to church yesterday, and received two compliments today on how good the tomatoes were. I didn't do to much, they basically grow on their own. I planted, fertilized and watered them, but the taste, is all their own. Really good beefsteak tomatoes.

Happy Birthday!

It's Rodney's 41st birthday today. Wow! he's old! I remember when he was 13. Very scary, let me tell you.

Today he left with Blake to fish at the river. The kids and I went to church, and then came home to rest before heading out to the ladies Bible study at Candi's. We are studying the Proverbs 31 woman by Elizabeth George. Today's lessons were on the aspects of her character that dealt with Farsightedness (being prepared) and Being Kind.

I really enjoyed the one on being prepared, as that is what I advocate to everyone. I may prepare on a larger scale than most, smaller than others, but I feel it may have at least raised awareness a little with the other ladies, even though they probably don't agree with how I go about it.

One lady mentioned that they would just come to my house if anything happened. My sister then commented that they couldn't because I had already told her not to come. That is not exactly what I told her. I told her that if she didn't take it seriously, and start providing SOMETHING for her family now, why would she expect me to take her in....if she comes with all her supplies, great. I'd take everyone at church in, if they brought any food and weapons that they have with them...the amount of food I have wouldn't feed anyone very long, without some effort on their parts.

My main concerns are: Rodney losing his job, a tornado, economic depression and civil unrest - in this order.

Proverbs 6:6-8 - "Go to the ant you sluggard; consider it's ways and be wise! It has no commander or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers is food at harvest." To me this verse is telling us all to prepare. Yes, the Lord provides, but he also provides common sense. If you don't even have enough food in the house to get through the week, you are in a little trouble.

Proverbs 10:4-5 "Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth. He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son."
I don't think these verses are just talking about gathering in crops, but referring to preparing while you still have time and resources. Don't be lazy, be diligent, work hard, and your wealth will not be counted in monetary gain, but in peace of mind.

Proverbs 27:23-27 - "Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations. When the hay is removed and new growth appears and the grass from the hills is gathered in, the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field. You will have plenty of goats' milk to feed you and your family and to nourish your servant girls."

To me, these verses urge me to be aware of what I have. Money, jobs, a secure economy will not last forever, so by preparing beforehand, I won't have to worry about my family going hungry or cold.

Proverbs 27:12 - "The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it." This verse does not need any explanation.

Proverbs 1:20-33 - this is a long passage. Please use your Bible to look it up, it has a warning from God for those who reject wisdom.

*****
I have been sick the past few days, I hope I start feeling better soon. Tomorrow the girls and I have been invited to Mrs. Workman's for lunch and to swim. Candi and her family has been invited too.

Well, it's gone. Rodney's motorcycle is finally out of here. The guy showed up tonight with the last payment, and Rodney signed the title over to him. There was a little seller's remorse, but he said it was time to move on to other things.

We went out to dinner tonight at a local Mexican restaurant, then stopped at the in laws to pay my FIL for purchasing a part for the tractor. Rodney had left it at his dad's house, because he dad wanted to fix some kind of O-ring leak. While at my in laws, my FIL took me out to his garden so that I could see how my garden is supposed to look (rolling eyes here). His garden was neatly laid out, and had almost no weeds, but his vegetables looked about as wilted as mine. It has been very hot lately, and my routine of watering every two days, is having to be stepped up to every day.

After dropping Rodney off at the house to change the ceiling fan in the living room, Taylor and I headed out to the land to water the garden. I was able to harvest a pan full of basil, a few more tomatoes, and onions. The watermelons and cantelopes look bigger just from the other day! They sure are growing fast! The corn still looks pretty scraggly and pathetic.

Well, it's 10:30 p.m. and I am off to put the basil in the dehydrator. Have a good night!

*****
What I've learned tonight (11:28 p.m.) - Basil smells DISGUSTING while it is being dried in a dehydrator.

I also learned that five trays full of basil leaves, yields only about 1 TBSP of dried, crushed herb. Wow! I thought I'd have way too much basil with 16 plants, but at this rate, I'll need every bit! (12:17 p.m.) Off to bed!

Socialization vs. Social Life

The "s" word reared it's ugly head again today at Lauren's tennis lessons...here is what I (and Mrs. D) have to say about that......

"Socialization is knowing how to act appropriately in various situations and is best taught by adults who care about the child.

Socialization is not the same as having a social life. Remember this when you hear the dreaded "S" word from others. Your home schooled kids will have as many friends and activities as they want and you allow (and likely more time than their PS peers to enjoy them).

They will be socialized by their parents and other caring people who will help them learn appropriate behavior in different situations- at home, in public, in informal and formal activities. They will have many opportunities to learn and practice social skills as they will be interacting with the real world on a regular basis."

Really, if you stop and think about it WHY would I want my kids to hang out with a bunch of hoodlums in the making. I've been to public school, I know how it all works, and a parent who REALLY loves their child, KNOWS that public school is not that place for their kids. Now, if you can only get them to admit it, you'd win half the battle. In my family, I am still considered somewhat of an "oddball" because I home school, and full a variety of other reasons. My mom has told me that I try very hard to be different, and I disagree. I think the rest of my family tries TOO hard to fit in, and be part of the "crowd". Whatever happened to being independent and an individual. Kind of hard to do, when you are just like everyone else.

Catching up on my reading this morning, after doing a quick pick up around the house. The appraiser should be here in about an hour or so. Please pray that the house appraises for what we need, God knows what we need, so I am trying to leave it up to him. This is very hard I confess.

Laundry is going, so I will be folding most of the afternoon.

My St. John's Wort and Fever few are my own two medicinal herbs that have germinated and flourished. I am kind of disappointed that the yarrow, echinacea and lemon balm didn't germinate. I will try again. Due to the appraiser coming we didn't get started on the pumpkin field this weekend (doing last minute repairs and touch ups), that absolutely needs to get started here soon if they are to be ready by October. This year I am only going to plant Jack O'Lantern pumpkins, and look for a good pie pumpkin to plant for next year.

Trying to get my bills down even lower, but it is very difficult. I wish I could get rid of the DirectTV, but Rodney really likes it...it's kind of an expensive luxury in my opinion. Have a lot of food stored up, so I am trying to use what I have stored, and not spending too much on groceries every week, except for milk and cheese. It is very difficult, when you have such picky eaters.

My dinner menu for this week looks like this:

Monday: pan fried pork chops with Watkins grill seasoning, garlic and parsley baby red potatoes (using the Watkins grapeseed oil flavored with garlic and parsley), sliced cucumbers and tomatoes

Tuesday: crock pot cooked turkey pot roast with onions, rice, okra, sliced tomatoes and fresh bread

Wednesday: soup and bread

Thursday: Szcheun Pork with fried rice

Friday: Pizza

Family Pictures

This is me, several years ago, sorry, don't have any recent pictures. I still look basically the same, different hairstyle.

Lauren, Taylor and Hannah
at Taylor's Graduation in 2007

Baetalyn (dog) and DH - Rodney

I was able to pick about two dozen tomatoes between yesterday and today, along with okra, basil, onions and corn. This weekend, I will harvest more basil, and dehydrate it in my new dehydrator. I much prefer dried basil over frozen (like my friend Candi does).

There are lots more tomatoes in varying states of growth and readiness, so I will be dehydrating those too.

One of my apple trees appears to be dying, slowly. I wonder if gophers have eaten some of it's roots.

Tomorrow the appraiser comes to complete the appraisal for the house, so I will clean up a little in the morning. Wednesday is tennis lesson time for the girls, and Thursday we may go to Sea World with Candi and her kids.

We had a great bible study last night, and continued with our study on the Proverbs 31 woman, reading and learning about being industrious. It really motivates me to do more, and keeps it on my mind when I don't do more.

A Bitter Homeschooler

I found this online, and thought it was hilarious! Check it out!

http://www.secular-homeschooling.com/001/bitter_homeschooler.html