tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30130330445345209702024-03-13T15:30:45.082-05:00The Creek FamilyDeuteronomy 6: 5-9 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and gates.Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.comBlogger109125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-28166939087516257332011-11-30T10:14:00.001-06:002011-11-30T10:14:56.301-06:00The flower girl and ring bearer<p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ldWN0G1j7jw/TtZWXHKnGvI/AAAAAAAABFg/xKWLQQBR_7M/s1600-h/Kims%252520Wedding%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="Kims Wedding" alt="Kims Wedding" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QJtv7JhSOvI/TtZWXVHV-SI/AAAAAAAABFo/mqDRj6fwEC0/Kims%252520Wedding_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="159"></a></p> <p align="center">Natalie and Adam</p> <p align="center">We headed to Indianapolis a couple of weekends ago to celebrate the union of marriage with Kim and Michael. They had a beautiful wedding and Natalie and Adam were in the wedding! They did a great job.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XGMkpzQ0EPg/TtZWXkyhWVI/AAAAAAAABFw/G5rTZd6GTXk/s1600-h/Kims%252520Wedding2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="Kims Wedding2" alt="Kims Wedding2" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SPpWxu5kX-8/TtZWX2oVTUI/AAAAAAAABF4/NKvpL4z_CwM/Kims%252520Wedding2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="159" height="240"></a></p> <p align="center">Yeah, I know she looks way older than 7! Its just that quirky personality of hers that shines through! Well she’s also absolutely beautiful, If I do say so myself!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5OiUyd851KY/TtZWYJlZ1SI/AAAAAAAABGA/Iq6LJW4rPRI/s1600-h/Kims%252520Wedding3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="Kims Wedding3" alt="Kims Wedding3" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vvGXKNQ2JyU/TtZWYSHgrpI/AAAAAAAABGI/aEQhx4PSLZQ/Kims%252520Wedding3_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="159" height="240"></a></p> <p align="center">Kim and Natalie</p> <p align="center">We had a great evening of dancing, food, and fellowship!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hGlyrwO4A_Q/TtZWYsvwfiI/AAAAAAAABGQ/N-b9378d3d0/s1600-h/520%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="520" alt="520" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lUZkfrmvI4s/TtZWY2iiYCI/AAAAAAAABGY/9oh239C8JkM/520_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center">Siblings all fancied up!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MMj05O57TCs/TtZWZYjm1wI/AAAAAAAABGg/EjHN5CWrvjU/s1600-h/523%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="523" alt="523" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JPFpagKJ790/TtZWZsNQTvI/AAAAAAAABGo/n78_D39DBeU/523_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a></p> <p align="center">The Cake</p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1Xmi_xGiuWE/TtZWZ1crXVI/AAAAAAAABGw/QUNEkksBqDw/s1600-h/DSCN2934%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2934" alt="DSCN2934" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JGH-NovxFMA/TtZWZ0KxwUI/AAAAAAAABG4/Cw_ROpU56s4/DSCN2934_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CTft5en0rSI/TtZWaPFwm8I/AAAAAAAABHA/ofi7vcJolRg/s1600-h/525%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline; float: left" title="525" alt="525" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-A5piaJdAQnU/TtZWajolEyI/AAAAAAAABHI/4z5BeGtBWoY/525_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wYAs_SC5qxU/TtZWazqikQI/AAAAAAAABHQ/z-N34FBXFTI/s1600-h/546%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="546" alt="546" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-u0yRrQ7UTX4/TtZWbIguVtI/AAAAAAAABHY/3yi4Lnfqqjo/546_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a></p> <p align="center">Natalie, Adam and Travis! </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bM7NX7DlnUg/TtZWbd7bHMI/AAAAAAAABHc/fm0YNglZNQM/s1600-h/548%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="548" alt="548" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OcsOgW9pZWE/TtZWbqnGOOI/AAAAAAAABHk/_C7gu7Dz2iM/548_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rSG5hvpcgdc/TtZWb-M80HI/AAAAAAAABHs/N6kAY2Eq4xc/s1600-h/549%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="549" alt="549" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-v85jimH2I-Y/TtZWcLDAfBI/AAAAAAAABH0/SyV_QzkXHfA/549_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BYznvJSNPNo/TtZWcNX--XI/AAAAAAAABH8/yQAdvct_iGE/s1600-h/551%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="551" alt="551" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4XXRp1xWkS4/TtZWctwEUsI/AAAAAAAABIA/doxGLj5pKdw/551_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bTPKuFFBenI/TtZWc8knveI/AAAAAAAABIE/mLDr8j281es/s1600-h/DSCN2875%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="DSCN2875" alt="DSCN2875" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-96aRuNH3EF0/TtZWdILH95I/AAAAAAAABIM/kBLz3T-hxHc/DSCN2875_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a> Giving Kim away!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XeBTDWYlEJc/TtZWdalopTI/AAAAAAAABIY/tyFjRbmAMMo/s1600-h/DSCN2917%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2917" alt="DSCN2917" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VrCXsEL7RVM/TtZWdqLT6jI/AAAAAAAABIg/NoHdTRy-k6k/DSCN2917_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--fs73FLhWtc/TtZWdxn4xmI/AAAAAAAABIo/1HRjGgCXFBM/s1600-h/DSCN2933%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2933" alt="DSCN2933" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KVOel8gVYcs/TtZWeM56bUI/AAAAAAAABIw/pBZQ0x-oCGw/DSCN2933_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a></p> <blockquote> <p>Father & Daughter Dance My Michael and Kim</p> <p align="center"> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-178Fw2FQUm8/TtZWef-KNgI/AAAAAAAABI4/N9cHPq1heVI/s1600-h/539%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="539" alt="539" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_1kKH2z_MSQ/TtZWetPaDtI/AAAAAAAABJA/cVwp5Z1WHyg/539_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a></p> <p>Travis found a lint roller to play baseball with!<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IGG5NZpy79A/TtZWe0K12xI/AAAAAAAABJI/Hm3J61eUGqA/s1600-h/541%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="541" alt="541" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6UQzJjel1vg/TtZWfMv6_YI/AAAAAAAABJQ/wZjLEWkaS_4/541_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="191" height="231"></a></p> <p align="center">Our beautiful family….</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vtkRehbicIE/TtZWfQKWNvI/AAAAAAAABJU/Hl1EHnK75Us/s1600-h/DSCN2882%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2882" alt="DSCN2882" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lzeDaOhIx4E/TtZWftzUndI/AAAAAAAABJc/ER3le9JhTVM/DSCN2882_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p></blockquote> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-28513443557585621122011-11-30T07:56:00.001-06:002011-11-30T07:56:59.762-06:00Our Advent Celebration<p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zSPAHidPA5o/TtY2KfZzqSI/AAAAAAAABFQ/NIth1kHMID8/s1600-h/DSCN2950%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2950" alt="DSCN2950" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wdHII8fd8i4/TtY2KnzH_QI/AAAAAAAABFY/ISsZwQGtFqw/DSCN2950_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center">We are starting a new tradition this Christmas Season! I have searched for an Advent Activity that is simple, low maintenance, and fun. I am glad to say I have found one that I can use to fit our family. I found the <a title="http://www.spelloutloud.com/2011/11/names-of-jesus-advent-chain.html" href="http://www.spelloutloud.com/2011/11/names-of-jesus-advent-chain.html">Names Of Jesus Advent Chain</a>, on the blog, <a href="http://www.SpellOutLoud.com">www.SpellOutLoud.com</a>. </p> <p align="center">This is a free download and you are able to print it off from you own computer. On the blog she says to use Purple and Silver cardstock, well I didn’t have those colors so I used Blue and White and hung it in our dining room on a shelf. </p> <p align="center">We are excited to learn about all the different names of Jesus throughout the bible!</p> <p align="center">What are you and your family using for Advent?</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-50645376726674910072011-10-28T11:34:00.000-05:002011-10-28T11:35:00.037-05:00HMJ-October 28, 2011<p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" alt="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BSAXRkDsotc/TmGjruNCatI/AAAAAAAAA9k/ugpPmQu7uY8/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="240"> <p><u>In my life this week:</u> <p>Fast paced days and a trip to the ER with the 2 year old. <p><u>In our homeschool this week:</u> <p>We have done well to get our core subjects completed. Natalie and Adam are chugging right along in their math and phonics. Natalie is also doing well with her reading and spelling. Adam is finally writing all of his letters and knows their sounds, so we are going to start adding in a few high frequency words next week. <p><strong><u>What’s working/not working for us:</u></strong> <p>Having a toddler with 2 staples in the back of his head is not really working for us. He has no idea how to stay calm and not wrestle with everyone. I just have to keep reminding him of this! But then again , I can’t expect to much…he’s a boy and he is 2! <p><strong><u>Questions/thoughts I have;</u></strong> <p>I prayed over my son as the doctor was putting the staples in his head. I prayed and prayed aloud, which is something I wouldn’t normally do (I pray, but not out loud and in front of other people, normally). This is just to show how powerful the God I serve is. He brought me to a place of complete awkwardness and made me shine. I felt powerful! <p><u>My favorite thing this week:</u> <p>Praying with a child that is not my own and feeling peace for the both of us. I also moved him to tears and myself after a hard situation and praying. This child is heavy on my heart and I hurt for him. I know he knows Jesus, but I want more for him. I want him to have a relationship with Him. <p><u>Something to share:</u> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cPR3jEJKoUw/TqrZsXtEZBI/AAAAAAAABDY/IBB4iOONrLo/s1600-h/007%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="007" alt="007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uipqHB_vuyk/TqrZs8DjskI/AAAAAAAABDg/WqIEDHFnXQU/007_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center">Here is my baby with 2 staples in the back of his head. He was playing outside in the wagon and the person pulling the wagon didn’t realize he was trying to get out while it was moving and Travis fell backwards onto the gravel in the driveway and landed on a rock. He had a 5 mm laceration, needed 2 staples and is doing well.</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-70585229776798489132011-10-27T11:00:00.001-05:002011-10-27T11:00:39.068-05:00Funny Little Boy!<p> </p> <p>Our family was at church Wednesday evening and we were just talking and visiting with a few people. I was standing up and the kids had been playing and eating their candy from their fall festival. </p> <p>I was talking and then heard….I see your underwear!!…I proceeded to look down and saw Adam laying on the floor looking up. He had crawled in between my feet and was looking up my skirt. I hadn’t even noticed, he was very sly and quick.</p> <p>I was embarrassed and then laughed and then had to correct my child. </p> <p>I asked Adam if he thought it was appropriate to look up a persons skirt and yell that he could see their underwear? He replied, No, Mommy I was inappropriate. </p> <p>Wow I can’t believe he did that. Definitely one of the most embarrassing things he has done!</p> <p>Has this every happened to you? Do you have any funny little boy stories?</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-32986668546460584992011-10-24T20:54:00.001-05:002011-10-24T20:54:03.457-05:00Staples<p>Today we had beautiful weather outside and the kids were running in and out all afternoon. They were thrilled to be able to play outside with out jackets! I even had the dining room windows open so the children could be heard from outside if they needed anything! All was well and I went into the kitchen, where I could still hear all of the children and then it happened…I heard a cry….we as parents know this cry. It’s the one where you become sick to your stomach, you get a lump in your throat and run to the crying child….I hear Adam yell…he’s bleeding, he’s bleeding as Travis is standing in the driveway by the gravel and wagon. </p> <p>He was standing up with blood dripping from the back of his head. I swooped him up, got him inside by the kitchen sink as I was yelling Miiiicccchhhhaaaaaaaaaaaallllllllllll!!! Michael came upstairs and asked what happened? I explained what happened to him as he grabbed a washcloth. I got the washcloth wet and started to wash away the blood on Travis’ head. It looked okay to me, but was still bleeding. Mike on the other hand was laying on the couch in the dining room with his feet up. (Oh yeah, he doesn’t do blood. He gets queasy and light headed). He informed me that Travis needed to go to the EMERGENCY ROOM….I didn’t argue, I just gathered my things and put the baby in the car and drove to the ER. </p> <p>As we were driving to the ER, I explained to Travis that we were going to the doctor and we needed to have his boo boo checked out and make sure it was all okay. We walk in and explain to the lady at the front desk what happened, we are then taken into have Travis weighed, check his temperature and blood pressure and give a quick history of his health. All the while I am having to talk over a screaming child and ask the nurse to repeat her questions at least three times before I am able to answer. Sorry. My baby is screaming that he wants to go bye bye and no night night. The nurse takes us to ER Room #5. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jO0z9EoM2Ks/TqYWtzMqBNI/AAAAAAAABC4/hUaG29Sjupo/s1600-h/007%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="007" alt="007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hhZtnPU5GvI/TqYWuBHG7-I/AAAAAAAABDA/HYHAyuk-UEU/007_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p> Its not long before admitting comes in and gives Travis his anklet! Travis is still screaming and crying. He was scared and thinking that he was going to have to go night night on the bed in the ER. I told him he wouldn’t have to and that we would go bye bye after the Dr. looked at his boo boo. He was not taking that for a final answer. He wanted to leave and leave now. He cried and cried and I just held him and tried to console him. He did calm down, and then the Dr. had to come in. We then had to get on that night night bed, which made him more mad and upset. The Dr. looked at his boo boo and said there was about a 5mm cut. Dr. didn’t think he needed stitches, but would need staples….I’m sorry, what did you say. You are going to put STAPLES into my babies head? Dr. says, Yes I am and they can come out in 10 days. Then I am told that Travis is not going to have any numbing medication before the staples go in. (No numbing meds because they don’t work on the head). Okay. </p> <p>The Dr. left the room to go and get his supplies and Travis was all worked up. I got him calmed down again and relaxed and then the Dr. began to clean the area really well and prep it for the staples. Dr. says, here we go Mom. I became scared for my child. Scared of the pain he was going to endure. I wanted it to be me, because I could “handle” it better. I began praying over Travis. Praying out loud and for him to have comfort. I sang Jesus Loves Me and it was all over. He had done it. Two staples in the back of my babies head. We waited for paperwork to be finished and we were free to go. Free to go home, and see Daddy. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WD82dgsvzmY/TqYWue_XCQI/AAAAAAAABDI/Zk8_tNG20Rw/s1600-h/006%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="006" alt="006" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-h8ecJSF0ajM/TqYWujTbYqI/AAAAAAAABDQ/ZFE2y2qbgkg/006_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p>Travis walked half way out of the ER. It was like a surreal moment. I felt like I was in a movie. Travis had a bloodstained shirt, matted hair, with a red, puffy face. He had a smile though. He was happy to be leaving and going home to show Daddy his boo boo and his ankle bracelet. </p> <p>We drove home and Travis was awake and very alert. He walked in very proud and showed his Daddy what he got. He pointed to his head and said boo boo then lifted his pant leg to show Daddy his ankle bracelet. Travis is so brave, so strong, so full of life.</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-52883332085354087312011-10-14T10:26:00.001-05:002011-10-14T10:26:47.949-05:00HMJ-October 14, 2011<p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" alt="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BSAXRkDsotc/TmGjruNCatI/AAAAAAAAA9k/ugpPmQu7uY8/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="240"> <p><u>In my life this week:</u> <p>I have to say, I have had a great week. Nothing to great or to bad happened. Fairly quiet, content, routine week. I love weeks like these! <p><u>In our homeschool this week:</u> <p>We added Science in our studies this week. Natalie loved it. Adam on the other hand wasn’t feeling well the day we did our science so he missed out. Natalie keeps asking everyday if we are going to do more science. I say, we are only going to do it once a week at this point. If they want more, maybe we can add it in as we have time? <p><strong><u>What’s working/not working for us:</u></strong> <p>I hate to say this and feel like an awful mother at times, but then on the other hand I don’t feel bad because I don’t see a problem with it at times….our kids watch television and play on the computer a lot of times during “school hours”. I don’t know if this is a bad thing or not, its not as if they sit in front of one or the other from the time they rise till bed time. I have tried to limit time with television, I have tried no television during the school week and then I just give in and let them watch it because they then drive me crazy in a sense! So I am wondering on how I find a happy medium for our family? <p><strong><u>Questions/thoughts I have;</u></strong> <p>Do you allow your children to have free range of computer time and/or television during the school day? <p><u>My favorite thing this week:</u> <p>I have to say it was Moms Night Out with our homeschool group of moms. We always have a great time and have great food! <p><u>Something to share:</u> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8jtDXput7uA/TphUtewqTSI/AAAAAAAABCo/nLuxL4n5t7Y/s1600-h/055%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="055" alt="055" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YZa_Y0DFrII/TphUt2tvRPI/AAAAAAAABCw/NZPfTwb0cPI/055_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center">These are the treats we got at the Apple Orchard last weekend. Apple cider slushy, apple cider in an apple, and an apple doughnut were a few things we sampled while we were there.</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-44595969406212826842011-10-14T00:52:00.000-05:002011-10-14T00:52:00.087-05:00Funny Friday<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3xtAjjQGwEI/TpczeF5qmqI/AAAAAAAABCY/0MU7LtXM6BE/s1600-h/111%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="111" border="0" alt="111" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-N0f25hYNTBs/Tpczer4hN5I/AAAAAAAABCc/HlY8yzPz8tU/111_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="437" height="408"></a></p> <p align="center">Big brother, Adam decided that it would be a great idea to take all of the books off of the book shelves upstairs and add them to the pack-n-play that little brother Travis was climbing in and out of. The kids enjoyed this for a while and said that they were going to read every single book. Adam even brought out his pillows and blankets. Travis looks so pathetic because I wouldn’t let him hold onto the camera. </p> <p align="center">Just got to love those guys!</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-18167916687092223612011-10-13T13:41:00.000-05:002011-10-13T13:42:32.141-05:00Apple Orchard<p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rkVK0LrbpL0/Tpcw9g86YMI/AAAAAAAAA_g/ry0zR7w5Bk8/s1600-h/048%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="048" alt="048" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-x-V4mgN4iVQ/Tpcw-Dq94tI/AAAAAAAAA_k/CLQ3fkw0Vsk/048_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a></p> <p>This was the first time we had been to the apple orchard! It was a great time, although we should have gone in September. I say that because the apples are all ready to be picked in September, so we didn’t get to pick any apples. The kids didn’t seem to mind, since they had other fun things to do.</p> <p align="center">Here are the snacks we got from the Country Store at the Orchard.</p> <p align="center">That is an apple cider slushy in the white cup, apple cider in the apple, and an apple doughnut. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-u8SIKJmrcEA/Tpcw-ct9bNI/AAAAAAAAA_w/3PJqH2paEQw/s1600-h/055%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="055" alt="055" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZtGjEaQylLU/Tpcw-xTDKJI/AAAAAAAAA_4/3OAliCLLvjE/055_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center">The kids playing on the playground.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8qEa5KNVX4Y/Tpcw_OHTpVI/AAAAAAAABAA/OjKSauQscmU/s1600-h/046%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="046" alt="046" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4QALVYpxu0c/Tpcw_XcWUZI/AAAAAAAABAI/JoOrZlZNXmQ/046_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rGd4cX-R9WQ/TpcxAKFRjdI/AAAAAAAABAQ/N2D3sr4XcHk/s1600-h/054%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="054" alt="054" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6EmvMtsY7-M/TpcxAQO-t8I/AAAAAAAABAY/WRpJTq8wn24/054_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ApivIEw1XsU/TpcxA7jCFHI/AAAAAAAABAg/16m8DtArhic/s1600-h/047%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="047" alt="047" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MRGL00y5u8E/TpcxBGbDUZI/AAAAAAAABAo/XOklRXuWnpc/047_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jJWLTPLVlNU/TpcxBbXGIqI/AAAAAAAABAw/F0bgp5Z8kqI/s1600-h/051%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="051" alt="051" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zhA_0UmooW8/TpcxB_mewQI/AAAAAAAABA4/WqdIM5t0V84/051_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xvTQLqL9Uq0/TpcxCIKGRnI/AAAAAAAABBA/s5Vl08OkkQw/s1600-h/052%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="052" alt="052" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hZbR0ITdrPw/TpcxCXdv81I/AAAAAAAABBI/irC2w13rSII/052_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UeOKkBaW7rQ/TpcxCxaJ3sI/AAAAAAAABBQ/-DVBlA7kdM4/s1600-h/056%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="056" alt="056" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Y-vUMgCz78c/TpcxDLnkl8I/AAAAAAAABBY/BGp37NpCgG4/056_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a></p> <p align="center">The apple sling shot and arm paintings.</p> <p align="right"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-d7tkQ_duteQ/TpcxDuhdhTI/AAAAAAAABBg/DhJShR_1bSU/s1600-h/057%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline; float: left" title="057" alt="057" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IQt667tqcvs/TpcxECke7qI/AAAAAAAABBk/yJ91swYlG80/057_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a> </p> <p align="right"> </p> <p align="right"> </p> <p align="right"> </p> <p align="right"> </p> <p align="right"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YI-kwGaP6IM/TpcxES0DzII/AAAAAAAABBw/7lnPjxeS_9I/s1600-h/060%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="060" alt="060" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4ftKPJEj6iQ/TpcxE-Pq_gI/AAAAAAAABB4/hMFFitId3Xw/060_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1HjCn6OqR1o/TpcxFZlSaCI/AAAAAAAABCA/8k9ryf20fk4/s1600-h/059%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="059" alt="059" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u0uh4eaghmw/TpcxF02o0HI/AAAAAAAABCI/ioNavT4vsdE/059_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p>We had beautiful weather for going to the apple orchard, and we had a great family time!</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-89559493018008330232011-09-30T11:48:00.001-05:002011-09-30T11:48:25.677-05:00TheHomeSchoolMothersJournal..20<p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" alt="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BSAXRkDsotc/TmGjruNCatI/AAAAAAAAA9k/ugpPmQu7uY8/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="240"></p> <p><u><font color="#008000">In my life this week:</font></u> <p><font color="#9c85c0">Do you ever feel like life has got ahead of you? Well that is how I have felt this week. I had the feeling that I had my home had spiraled out of control into a disaster, I had no control over anything, and couldn’t get motivated to do much of anything. Although, come Thursday and Friday, God had given me grace and I am, again on the top of the mountain. I have taken control of the laundry, dishes, and our normal day to day cleaning. There is a lot to do daily and sometimes I get overwhelmed on where to begin. My husband works outside of the home, and I work inside of the home with my daycare. My God is the only one who can help me overcome, rise me up, and lead me in the direction He wants me to go. So I lean and ask Him to take me! He is so faithful!</font> <p><u><font color="#008040">In our homeschool this week:</font></u> <p><font color="#9c85c0">This week has been lead by an un-schooling approach. My kids have not done much “book” work, but have taken interest in learning what they want to learn and when they want to do it. Its actually been a lot of fun. They have learned a lot. We have had sporadic talks about Heaven, Hell, and Satan. We have drawn dinosaurs. Built with Legos. Played outside, made cakes with rocks and grass in the yard! Pulled weeds and picked our pumpkins that grew in our yard. Its has been a great week for us! I am so in love with how they love to learn and pick up on things so easily when just given the gift of time and the presence of someone who cares!</font> <p><strong><u><font color="#008040">What’s working/not working for us…</font></u></strong> <p><font color="#9c85c0">I have enjoyed getting up a lot earlier than normal. My husband goes to work about 6:20 am. I have been getting up about the time he leaves and getting myself ready for the day before the kids get up. It works so much better, that way I don’t have to worry about breaking up anything between the children while in the shower! HAHA!</font> <p><strong><font color="#008040"><u>Questions/thoughts I have…</u></font></strong> <p><font color="#9c85c0">Nothing this week.</font> <p><u><font color="#008040">My favorite thing this week:</font></u> <p><font color="#9c85c0">Learning right along side my kids!</font> <p><u><font color="#008040">Something to share:</font></u></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=283637328315553&set=a.150557528290201.27236.150555121623775&type=1&ref=nf"><img alt="" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s320x320/303898_283637328315553_150555121623775_1188203_1614752740_n.jpg" width="225" height="189"></a></p> <p align="center"><font color="#9c85c0">Isn’t this so true!</font></p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-37556697330218137722011-09-27T15:25:00.001-05:002011-09-27T17:42:43.529-05:00Product Review<p><img src="http://www.familytimefitness.com/pictures/familytimefitnesscom.png" width="466" height="92"></p> <p>For the past few weeks we have been working with a PE program. Family Time Fitness is a very exciting program in our homeschool. We are able to work inside and out with the exercises given to us. Family Time Fitness has programs for Kindergarten through Fifth grade. It is reasonably priced for a lifetime of fitness at $99 for the entire program from kindergarten through fifth grade, and its all online. If you have multiple students in a certain age range, you are able to print off as many copies as you would need. So no paperwork or workbooks to keep track of.</p> <p>Since we have began this program the kids have learned new exercises, vocabulary and definitions of fitness terms, health and nutrition. They also had a lot of fun. We used the K-1st grade workbooks. I thought that would be best, so that we could focus a little more on my kindergartener and my not so athletic 2nd grader. </p> <p>We didn’t do a lot of the writing or extra worksheets. We mainly worked on the exercises and formation. We did talk a lot about vocabulary and spelling the fitness words. I believe the kids favorites were the crab walk and the superman pose.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JzrFk5D5Qxg/ToJRWl6ewmI/AAAAAAAAA_I/xR4t41FnhNM/s1600-h/DSCN2620%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2620" alt="DSCN2620" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_wjuDALbL80/ToIxTfBbb9I/AAAAAAAAA_M/0w2CVwSuMjk/DSCN2620_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FKk_qf2iurk/ToIxT5Gh6xI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/jb6gkA9acG4/s1600-h/DSCN2622%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2622" alt="DSCN2622" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ii8c7FuRQck/ToIxUAb0ReI/AAAAAAAAA_U/39_PSD56Bo0/DSCN2622_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <blockquote> <p>Natalie doing Jumping Jacks. Natalie in the superman pose.</p></blockquote> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wn6dJ6mE7lY/ToIxUme_qPI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/f_hQX1eleww/s1600-h/DSCN2621%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2621" alt="DSCN2621" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YAPiqXNcnY4/ToIxU7DsP2I/AAAAAAAAA_c/zbCI7h8kcos/DSCN2621_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center">If you are interested in Family Time Fitness you can get more information at <a href="http://www.familytimefitness.com">www.familytimefitness.com</a>. </p> <p> </p> <p>Jaclynn Creek is a homeschooling mom to three wonderful blessings at Soaring Creek Academy. Her days are spent learning side by side with a 2nd grader, kindergartener, and 2 year old, reading lots of books, cooking and spending time with her wonderful family. Her favorite thing about homeschooling is learning new things through her children. You can find her on her blog at <a href="http://www.thecreekfam.blogspot.com">www.thecreekfam.blogspot.com</a>. </p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-66460819722497338672011-09-27T13:31:00.001-05:002011-09-27T13:31:50.798-05:00Happy 2nd Birthday Travis<p>Travis was born September 23, 2009 at 10:37 AM. He weighed 7lbs 9oz and was 19 inches long! He was a little guy with big, puffy cheeks! I loved him the minute I knew he was coming! He is a blessing in our lives and is a very active little boy!</p> <p>We celebrated Travis’ 2nd Birthday with a baseball theme! If you know him, you know a baseball party was an excellent selection! He lives, breaths, and eats baseball, football and any other sport with a ball!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-j9KrCw-c1cg/ToIWf1IxbhI/AAAAAAAAA94/pe-K2dW1Zvg/s1600-h/DSCN2581%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2581" alt="DSCN2581" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-H2f4DF3XYXU/ToIWgWphV5I/AAAAAAAAA98/KySG8fSaw5Y/DSCN2581_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center">My friend made our cake!</p> <p align="center">We then had presents….</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BHp7b0qHDwI/ToIWg5r26rI/AAAAAAAAA-A/WgQtLPdu8dQ/s1600-h/DSCN2602%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2602" alt="DSCN2602" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7ERY5gj0RLI/ToIWhEl0I-I/AAAAAAAAA-E/8YcK62FTmrs/DSCN2602_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yoSCo0DYzL0/ToIWhhHM90I/AAAAAAAAA-I/B-ci1J_Thx4/s1600-h/DSCN2593%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2593" alt="DSCN2593" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6CKWdF714co/ToIWh8q13YI/AAAAAAAAA-M/R2iLI9hk2ZU/DSCN2593_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rc9SoaYiuCw/ToIWiWambHI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/iY1L_7J902k/s1600-h/DSCN2597%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2597" alt="DSCN2597" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YEy5DjkmPQo/ToIWih8UaCI/AAAAAAAAA-U/c52OzU5FA6Q/DSCN2597_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-z3FFD34lP38/ToIWjBd3_GI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/QCci4Xa5x5Y/s1600-h/DSCN2595%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2595" alt="DSCN2595" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LYOxjxC29Wk/ToIWjSJsWQI/AAAAAAAAA-c/ajjm59GOS6A/DSCN2595_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-n0IigS29Ii4/ToIWj03sXNI/AAAAAAAAA-g/HDj1hwlMeX4/s1600-h/DSCN2596%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2596" alt="DSCN2596" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WWEF7M5zX0I/ToIWkiZ-UmI/AAAAAAAAA-k/VkvQlRe-caI/DSCN2596_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center">We also had great fellowship with friends and family.</p> <p align="center">Here are a few of the people, others were in the kitchen and basement.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UhV4hS8c5a4/ToIWlGpPQTI/AAAAAAAAA-o/hFBh6N4V1d0/s1600-h/DSCN2586%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSCN2586" alt="DSCN2586" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-o7R8vuGi_EA/ToIWlZV0b4I/AAAAAAAAA-s/znA0bzdr-eg/DSCN2586_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center">I am so thankful for all the people that came to Travis’ birthday party! It means a lot to us to know we have so many people that love us! We are blessed.</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-78075559337536312162011-09-26T13:42:00.000-05:002011-09-27T13:42:23.919-05:00No More Poo…<p>I have finished my 2 week trial with the no poo. I am happy to say that I believe I have perfected the system for myself and my hair. I will continue to keep using 2 tbsp of baking soda and 1.5 cups of water as my hair wash along with 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar to 1 cup of water as my conditioner. I am using so much baking soda because I have very thick hair and its past my shoulders. I am also washing my hair every other day.</p> <p>My scalp feels so much better, my hair looks healthier, and its easy. </p> <p>Be poo free!!</p> <p>Jackie</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-7683129634595401772011-09-15T22:57:00.001-05:002011-09-15T22:57:02.398-05:00TheHomeSchoolMothersJournal..19<p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" alt="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BSAXRkDsotc/TmGjruNCatI/AAAAAAAAA9k/ugpPmQu7uY8/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="240"></p> <p><u><font color="#008000">In my life this week:</font></u> <p><font color="#9c85c0">Its been a pretty good week around here! </font> <p><u><font color="#008040">In our homeschool this week:</font></u> <p><font color="#9c85c0">We have taken a few breaks with our schooling. We had 3 official school days this week. I needed to get something's done around the house and we skipped school!! We were due for a break anyways right!</font> <p><u><font color="#008040">Places we’re going and people we’re seeing:</font></u> <p><font color="#9c85c0">We had our normal Monday Co-Op. Church on Wednesday night. We are going to a bon fire tonight to have s’mores, hotdogs, and great fellowship with friends!</font> <p><u><font color="#008040">My favorite thing this week:</font></u> <p><font color="#9c85c0">MOMS NIGHT OUT! I had such a great time with a group of homeschool moms.</font> <p><u><font color="#008040">Something to share:</font></u></p> <p><font color="#9c85c0">I am amazed at the depth of my daughters (7) mind and understanding. We talked about the events of September 11, 2001. She amazes me! Here is a picture of what she drew after she took in all of the information. Natalie truly expresses herself in her drawings. It’s a way I can fully grasp what is going on in her mind. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Buo9dhUDtjQ/TnLJC9HxuXI/AAAAAAAAA9w/Pfph7b59PQg/s1600-h/scan0001%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="scan0001" alt="scan0001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ORsUaKz7Fjs/TnLJDTA3xnI/AAAAAAAAA90/hoG-rxlEhOU/scan0001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="174"></a></p> <p align="center">Natalie 7 Years Old</p> <p align="center">9/11/11</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-15732196437135440822011-09-15T22:20:00.001-05:002011-09-15T22:20:08.370-05:00No More Poo..<p><font size="3">I have been absolutely terrible about posting this week. Sorry! I know you are all dying to know if my hair is greasy or not!!</font></p> <p><font size="3">Day 5</font></p> <p><font size="3">I rinsed my hair with water again this morning. It was extremely greasy, and I wasn’t sure if I should wash it or not.</font></p> <p><font size="3">I ended up washing my hair this evening. It feels so much better. I did change the formula a little, I went with 1.5 tbsp of baking soda to 1.5 cups of hot water and 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar.</font></p> <p><font size="3">Day 6</font></p> <p><font size="3">I have decided that I will now rinse my hair with water in the shower any more. I think it is making my hair get greasier quicker. So I did not wash or wet my hair today. It looked very good.</font></p> <p><font size="3">Day 7</font></p> <p><font size="3">I went all day with out doing anything with my hair other than putting it into a pony tail. By early evening it was really gross, or atleast I felt it was. So I decided to wash it in the sink with the same formula from Day 5. I blow dried my hair this time and it looked great.</font></p> <p><font size="3">Day 8</font></p> <p><font size="3">I put my hair in a twisty thing a bob and then used a claw clip to hold it. My hair was not greasy or dry feeling and held up all day.</font></p> <p><font size="3">Day 9</font></p> <p><font size="3">I washed my hair again this morning. I blow dried it and left it down for the first time in a week. I got a few compliments on it also! (It looks so clean. Did you get a hair cut? Your hair looks GREAT!)</font></p> <p><font size="3">I again changed the formula. We have hard water and I just want to make sure I am getting my hair clean and helping my scalp out the best I can.</font></p> <p><font size="3">I used 2 tbsp of baking soda to 1.5 cups water. 2tbsp apple cider vinegar to 1.5 cups water.</font></p> <p><font size="3">My scalp is still itchy, I still have the red patches (eczema), and I am still working on the perfect formula. </font></p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-69314972087782729882011-09-10T16:44:00.001-05:002011-09-10T16:44:46.507-05:00TheHomeSchoolMothersJournal..18<p><em><u></a></u></em><font color="#dd8484"></font> <p align="center"><img title="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" alt="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BSAXRkDsotc/TmGjruNCatI/AAAAAAAAA9k/ugpPmQu7uY8/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="240"></p> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">In my life this week:</font></u></em> <p><font color="#8064a2">Life is still pretty crazy around here. It was nice to only have a four day week, although weeks like this might seem longer than most. We had a pretty good week all together, and took a few days off so that I could get things together and focus on a few other things in life.</font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">In our homeschool this week:</font></u></em> <p><font color="#8064a2">We finished with two days of “school” this week. We have been reading every night and doing outside of the box things for learning too.</font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">Places we’re going and people we’re seeing:</font></u></em> <p><font color="#8064a2">The only place we went this week was church on Wednesday evening.</font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">My favorite thing this week:</font></u></em> <p><font color="#8064a2">Actually sitting down, and having a bit of time to myself in the evenings. So what do I do with this time…I read of course. I love Beverly Lewis, so I am reading The Shunning.</font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">Something to share:</font></u></em></p> <p><font color="#8064a2">I would have taken some pictures this week, but the batteries in my camera are dead.</font></p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-25518557490583035892011-09-10T16:28:00.001-05:002011-09-10T16:28:03.914-05:00Freezer Cooking Saturday<p>This week in freezer cooking was a lot more like Freezer Baking!</p> <p>13x9 Pan of Pumpkin Bread. Broke down into 4 loaves and frozen.</p> <p>81 Chocolate Chip Cookies….sitting on top of the fridge..out of reach and out of sight! They may last a while???</p> <p>13x9 pan of Cornbread. Broke down into 4 loaves and frozen.</p> <p>6 dozen Buttermilk Pancakes. We had some for breakfast and then I separated them into piles of 6 pancakes. Wrapped them in wax paper, put into a Ziploc bag and then put into the freezer for easy breakfast.</p> <p>All of the recipes I used came from the Better Homes and Garden Cookbook.</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-68631311401356860972011-09-10T16:19:00.001-05:002011-09-10T16:19:36.885-05:00No more poo….<p>Day 3</p> <p>I only rinsed my hair with water this morning in the shower. I also used the blowdryer this morning. My hair was pretty oily today. My scalp was also very itchy. So I ended up pulling my hair into a pony tail.</p> <p>Day 4</p> <p>I rinsed my hair with water only in the shower, and pulled it into a messy bun and air dried. I took it down in the middle of the day (when it had completely air dried) and it is much less oily. I am pleased to say my scalp is not itchy today.</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-54117111157260574822011-09-08T08:43:00.001-05:002011-09-08T08:43:39.636-05:00No More Poo<p>Day One</p> <p>Just this morning I tried the baking soda and water solution. I loved it and my hair is squeaky clean. I did however forget to do the apple cider vinegar and water mixture. My hair is a little dry, but not oily. So, I am impressed so far. I also had a hard time brushing through my hair with my brush. I have very thick hair. I will try to use a comb tomorrow. I also put my hair into a pony tail. </p> <p>Day Two</p> <p>Today I only wet my hair with water only, used a comb to brush through and pulled it up into a pony tail. My hair feels less dry and not oily.</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-89701365826890141582011-09-08T08:35:00.001-05:002011-09-08T08:35:20.201-05:00No More Poo…<p>I am trying something new, and excited to see the results of no longer using store bought shampoo with lots of chemicals that leave my scalp itchy and dry. I have tried numerous shampoos and conditioners all with the same end result. I also have dandruff and red sores on the back of my head that remain the same way with any type of “helping” or “specialized” shampoo. </p> <p>I have read a lot of information online, watched you tube videos and taken in great advice on going poo free! The remedy that I have come up with is using baking soda and water, apple cider vinegar and water.</p> <p>My Formula….</p> <p>2x a week I am going to wash my hair with 1tbsp of baking soda mixed with 1 cup of warm water. This may need to be tweaked a little? The amount of baking soda and/or water may need to be more or less depending if my hair becomes very dry. </p> <p>On the days that I do not wash my hair I will just wet it while in the shower and style as normal.</p> <p>To wash hair your simply mix the baking soda and water in a cup of squeeze bottle until the baking soda is dissolved. Then you wet hair with water and pour the baking soda and water mixture all over head while massaging it into your head with your finger tips, concentrating on the crown of your head and around the temples and ears and neck areas. Allow for mixture to sit for about a minute and then rinse out. </p> <p>Following the baking soda and water mix is the “conditioner” which consists of apple cider vinegar. </p> <p>To condition your simply mix 1tbsp of apple cider vinegar to 1 cup of warm water in another squeeze bottle, shake and pour over ends of hair. You may only use a little if your hair is naturally oily. </p> <p>Pretty simple if I do say so myself!</p> <p>I’ve collected that hair may be more oily with in the first 2-8 weeks of going poo free. This is due to your hair becoming so clean and rebuilding the natural oils and removing all of the chemicals from traditional shampoo that strip away natural oils. So, I have figured I will wear my hair in a ponytail or clip of some sort. </p> <p>I am going to write about my no poo experience over the next few weeks! Enjoy!</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-24388646303631651232011-09-02T22:49:00.001-05:002011-09-02T22:49:07.846-05:00TheHomeSchoolMothersJournal..17<p><em><u><a href="file:///C:/Users/Creeks/AppData/Local/Temp/WindowsLiveWriter-429641856/supfiles48953E/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t%5B1%5D.jpg"><font color="#dd8484"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-03taPocpSy4/TmGjrFYBNFI/AAAAAAAAA9g/JOzTMU9Dffc/s1600-h/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" alt="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BSAXRkDsotc/TmGjruNCatI/AAAAAAAAA9k/ugpPmQu7uY8/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="240"></a></font></a></u></em><font color="#dd8484"> </font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">In my life this week:</font></u></em> <p><font color="#8064a2">Have you ever had a week where you would like to crawl in a closet until it was over? Have you ever prayed so hard for Jesus to come back? I have had one of those weeks. I have been up and down emotionally and am feeling weak and inadequate of all God is calling me to do on a daily basis. I feel so overwhelmed at times, but know I am doing what He wants me to do. Does that make sense? </font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">In our homeschool this week:</font></u></em> <p> <font color="#8064a2">We started our first co-op classes on Monday. Natalie and Adam are taking a Phys. Ed. class and art class. I am of course in the nursery with all the littles!</font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">Places we’re going and people we’re seeing:</font></u></em> <p><font color="#8064a2">The kids and I went to the Childrens’ Museum this week and then to Taco Bell for lunch. It was a free day because we used their free pass for the museum and free taco card that they earned from the Summer Reading program at the library!</font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">My favorite thing this week:</font></u></em> <p> <font color="#8064a2">I cleaned and straightened up my laundry room. Washed. Dried. Put away. ALL of the laundry. I love being ahead of the laundry pile! </font> <p><em><u><font color="#f3a447">Something to share:</font></u></em></p> <p><em><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UFc7ENDuUkU/TmGjsf8PoXI/AAAAAAAAA9o/0ylGToKOka8/s1600-h/046%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="046" alt="046" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K51Hq_L2-aQ/TmGjskUHrrI/AAAAAAAAA9s/9NtGkpsxMe4/046_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></em></p> <p align="center"><font color="#8064a2">A picture I snapped on our trip at the museum. Don’t you just love the Mr./Mrs. Potato Heads!!</font></p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-59804813063543626572011-09-02T22:09:00.001-05:002011-09-02T22:09:05.077-05:00Broken Pieces<p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rQe2f7QEyIA/TmGaTsFRbII/AAAAAAAAA9Y/V33QDpxE-14/s1600-h/003%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="003" alt="003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W_lzixA63Qs/TmGaUB40acI/AAAAAAAAA9c/6ZxWZ2ZFbyI/003_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180"></a></p> <p align="center">My heart sunk when I heard the crash against the tile in the kitchen. I knew there was something broken, but didn’t know what had broken? I walked to the kitchen to find Travis standing there with the broken pieces. The cabinet was open and there was our Christmas cookie plate. This plate has been used for many years. I remember using this as a little girl on Christmas Eve to put cookies on for Santa. We have also used it for our children for all of their Christmas celebrations. </p> <p align="center">This incidence has led me to think of people of the world. We are all broken with pieces spread about. Can we just pick them up the pieces and everything be fixed? Nope. We need something larger to pick up the pieces because we can’t do it on our own. Although a lot of times our first reaction as humans is to fix our own problems.</p> <p align="center">How often I forget to call upon my Lord. I am broken, oh so broken. I can only be fixed with the help of my Lord. Which leads me back to a verse that I refer to often…</p> <h5 align="center">Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. Proverbs 3:5-7 NIV</h5> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-386310747968810752011-08-27T02:00:00.000-05:002011-08-27T02:00:03.475-05:00Freezer Cooking Saturday<p align="center">This week was not to exciting, but I did freezer cook!</p> <p align="center">2-1Q bags mixed peppers</p> <p align="center">1-1Q bag green peppers</p> <p align="center">2-1Q bags cooked, ground Pork Sausage</p> <p align="center">3-1Q bags seasoned, cooked Hamburger</p> <p align="center">2lb meatloaf cooked for dinner</p> <p align="center">I am working on my list for next week, hopefully something to bake!</p> <p align="center">Happy Cooking!</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-23275801329412796492011-08-26T22:04:00.001-05:002011-08-26T22:04:15.906-05:00TheHomeSchoolMothersJournal..16<p><em><u><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7_2GAlaeeQ0/TlhercLAxtI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/9lKDLfOp6lM/s1600-h/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font color="#dd8484"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" alt="TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eMbVpbdE5e8/Tlher5xb-hI/AAAAAAAAA9U/anzRHR9Gt7g/TheHomeschoolMothersJournal_thumb1_t_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="240"></font></a></u></em><font color="#dd8484"> </font> <p><em><u><font color="#dfce04"><font color="#dd8484">In my life this </font></font><font color="#dd8484">week:</font></u></em> <p><em>I’ve had a good week, I think this week has been sort of long? Well the days went quickly, but the week itself has drug on.</em> <p><em><u><font color="#dd8484">In our homeschool this week:</font></u></em> <p><em><font color="#333333">I am so proud of Natalie! She has worked so hard with her reading, math, phonics, and grammar lessons. She has gone above and beyond what I would have asked of her!</font></em> <p><em><u><font color="#dd8484">Places we’re going and people we’re seeing:</font></u></em> <p><em>Our favorite outing this week was to Wednesday night Church. It has began and we are glad. I am not taking a class at this time, so I enjoyed reading and journaling while classes were in session. Michael is taking a Wild at Heart Men's study, Natalie and Adam are doing their lessons with peers and Travis is hanging out in the nursery.</em> <p><em><u><font color="#dd8484">My favorite thing this week:</font></u></em> <p><em><font color="#333333">Watching Natalie and Adam just flourish in their school work! They worked so hard!</font></em> <p><em><u><font color="#dd8484">Something to share:</font></u></em></p> <p><em>I know we live in a fallen world. I ask that we all be praying for our world, nations leaders, and the people that are so dear and special to us along with our enemies.</em></p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-16852360991974912172011-08-26T21:40:00.001-05:002011-08-26T21:40:18.623-05:00Blessings<p>Psalm 127: 3-5 “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to the gate.”</p> <p>After much prayer and three beautiful pregnancies, my husband and I decided we would not expand our family any further. Before the birth of our third child my husband had a vasectomy. We were at peace with this decision. </p> <p>Flash forward two years and we are still at peace with this decision that we were clearly given from the Lord. But still there is a mother in my soul and I always wonder if we made the wrong decision to not expand our family with more children.</p> <p>After reading Psalm 127:3-5, I wonder why wouldn’t we want to add more children to our family? The Lord calls us to be fruitful and expand his kingdom. I enjoy whole heartedly being a stay at home mommy, homeschooling mom, Sunday school teacher of preschoolers and having my own in home daycare. I am around children all of the time…it is one of my joys and I have been called to care for children. My husband also cares for our children as well as being a youth group sponsor in our church. We are both passionate about children and being sure they know the Lord. </p> <p>So, while I sometimes ponder the thought of another pregnancy, foster care, and adoption I come to the same conclusion, none of these are right for our family.</p> <p>I am happy for all friends around us having babies, saving and loving kids with foster care and hearing Gods call to adopt a special person. I personally do not have the call to do any of these.</p> <p>I do have a different call. A calling from the Lord that many may think is crazy. Its something I have been doing since I was 16 years of age. I love it. So while we will not be adding any permanent members to our family, I do get to add little people in my life on a daily basis. In my home I am able to care for kids and love them while their parents are working, attending college and preparing a better way for their family.</p> <p>I am blessed to be called MOMMY! I am blessed to walk with my children daily in their school work, play, and daily life. I am blessed to care for other peoples children that are dear to my heart and teach them the love of Jesus. I get to be the hands and feet of my Lord, in my own home, with my own children, and with the blessings that come daily to spend the day with us. I am overjoyed at my calling and excited to see the fruits of my labor. </p> <p>I used to think what are my spiritual gifts? How will I have time to serve with three small children? God was showing me one thing…you are using your spiritual gifts, you do have time to serve and you are already doing it. I figured out that my ministry is my family, my home, the food I prepare, the dishes I wash, the floors I scrub, the garbage I take out, the book I read, the baby I rock, the tears I wipe, the giggles and tickle fights, the laundry I do, the baths I give, the shoes I tie, the barbies I dress, toys I clean up, the grocery shopping with three kids running all different directions and wanting different things, taking a naps!</p> <p>I have carried three in my womb. I carry many in my arms. I rock many in my rocking chair. I sing Jesus loves me to each that enter my home. I tell them they are beautiful and praise all they do. I pray over them and know that I am doing Gods work here in my own home. </p> <p>Are you using your spiritual gifts? Are you being fruitful as the Lord has commanded us to be? </p> <p>Blessings</p> <p>Jackie</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3013033044534520970.post-13357574775265114222011-08-23T15:47:00.001-05:002011-08-23T15:47:53.246-05:00Wordless Wednesday<p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-irAvg9AGHm0/TlQR9Z25uII/AAAAAAAAA9I/ioZJ0Y1kiXE/s1600-h/016%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="016" border="0" alt="016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-S-xo1tJg9lM/TlQR9lbEpMI/AAAAAAAAA9M/pkEe0j_KZt0/016_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="402" height="386"></a></p> <p align="center">My Beautiful Babies</p> Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229660204535145106noreply@blogger.com1