Knock knock...

I realized I didn't share the news on here...

Some of you may already know...

...but we are excited to share that we will be having (as far as the ultrasound showed!)

...another little boy to join our family the end of July!!!

So, let's add it up:

Dad,  Mom,

Girl, girl, girl, boy...and now...BOY!!!

Continued prayers for a healthy baby and pregnancy are soooo appreciated!!

Bearing burdens

Take heart, my friend, we'll go together
This uncertain road that lies ahead
Our faithful God has always gone before
And He will lead the way once again

Take heart, my friend, we can walk together
And if our burdens become too great
We can hold up and help one another
In God's love, in God's grace

Take heart my friend, the Lord is with us
As He has been all the days of our lives
Our assurance every morning
Our defender in the night

If we should falter when trouble surrounds us
When the wind and the waves are wild and high
We will look away to Him who rules the waters;
Who speaks His peace into the angry tide

He is our comfort, our sustainer
He is our help in time of need
When we wander, He is our Shepherd
He who watches over us never sleeps

Take heart my friend, the Lord is with us
As He has been all the days of our lives
Our assurance every morning
Our defender every night

Take heart my friend, the Lord is with us
As He has been all the days of our lives
Our assurance every morning
Our defender in the night.

~Fernando Ortega Take Heart, My Friend

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. ~Galations 6:2-3

Repost: Blinders and Bandwagons

I'm re posting this because I came across some wonderful and provocative articles that I will link to at the end of this post. My life lately has been a lot about simplifying...making room for margin and balance in my life. The first step is to clear the "clutter" from my mind to make room for what the Lord and what my husband are telling me to do. I found this post written awhile ago (November 2007) to be a good reminder for myself, as well as the articles linked afterwards.

There's this bookshelf that I've been wanting to get for a few months now. Since I have one tiny bookshelf to hold countless homeschooling supplies, there's an overload on the floor, and it makes for a messy guest room/office/homeschooling supply room. I think it will be perfect.

The problem is, my husband strongly dislikes (I would say "hate", but we are not allowed to use that word in our house!) furniture from IKEA. He wants something of quality, preferably antique, (not costly antique, but with a reasonable price tag.) The older stuff is better quality, and made better, and won't fall apart in a few years or need replacing. I so agree.

But I'm going crazy having a workspace that is junkily organized, where I throw mail and homeschool books on the bed and have to fish through it all in a big clean up day. I need to streamline and simplify, and that bookcase just looks like it will solve all my problems. It's a quick fix.

Honestly, I just need to listen to my husband. For me to spend a good chunk of my time looking at Ikea furniture online, planning my workspace, is just fruitless. Unless he changes his mind, or decides it's the best thing to buy, we won't be getting an Ikea workspace.

Of course this notion applies to so many other things. With so much information out there, wives can be easily swayed into taking ideas as convictions, such as the best way to feed her family, biblical child education, children in church, family devotions, and living simply, among a myriad of things. This is normal, women are relational and care deeply for their families.

What I have to be aware of is that my husband's convictions may not be my convictions. I have to be aware that I am not disagreeing with my husband, and in turn, jumping on bandwagons:

Sometimes women are prone to bandwagons, which seem good in themselves. Some of them even come with proof texts. The problem is that sometimes the good thing violates a larger principle. And sometimes our contrarians are just saving us from ourselves. We need wisdom if our suffering is to be for Jesus’ sake and not for our own stupidity...

~via Amy's

Often, we need to go through life "with blinders on". Limiting information can give us peace of mind, and allow our husbands to lead appropriately. Should I be researching homesteading, if my husband does not want that lifestyle? Of course not. This can be applied to so many ideals, including bookshelves.

Really, we need to cut out the chatter and clutter in our lives in order to truly hear His voice. I know I do. This is the essence of simple living, along with asking "Does this glorify God?" One family's convictions will not look like another family's convictions. Are we following Christian culture, or are we following the Word of God? Before we jump on any bandwagons, we need to be sure we are giving our husband the lead, and we ourselves should be focused on seeking God for our own lives, not living out what others are doing.It's a constant balance, isn't it? And to that end, I'll let you know how the bookshelf thing works out. *smile*

Articles:

The Marketing of the Titus Two Woman: Part One
Part Two

If you are interested in reading more of these articles, there are up to seven parts in this series on her blog.

Mama Monday

Today's Mama Monday is the multi-talented, multi-faceted mother of 6 (ages 16,14,12,9,6,3) Marybeth Whalen. Marybeth is a writer, blogger, and homeschooler(among other things) who blogs at: Cheaper by the Half Dozen. (Don't you love the name of her blog?) She has written a book with her husband titled: Learning to Live Financially Free: Hard Earned Wisdom for Saving Your Marriage and Your Money. Doesn't it sound terrific? If you have not read her blog, I urge you to head over and read her refreshing, humble take on motherhood, writing, cooking, and much more. It is truly a breath of fresh air.

Ladies, I introduce Marybeth:

Greatest thing about being a mom—just looking at my children’s faces and knowing I had a part in their existence. Wow. What an honor.

Hardest thing about being a mom—the long days with whiny children and petulant teens

Favorite blogs/websites—I get a lot of encouragement as a homeschooler from Heart of the Matter Online and other homeschool mom blogs. I keep a list of favorites on the sidebar of my blog and read them all regularly.

How do you find balance in your life—My husband is a great accountability partner. He calls me on the carpet when I get too distracted from my priorities—in a loving way of course! That doesn’t mean I never get off balance, it just means I know he won’t let me get too out of hand.

One word that describes you—I had to ask my husband for this one. He said “Giving.” I would say that is accurate. I love to give. That is just the way God wired me.

Hobbies/interests--- Blogging, writing, Bible study, reading… I wish I could say “scrapbooking,” but alas I am far behind and can’t seem to get back into the swing of things.

I couldn't live without— my computer (and my Bible, of course!)

What helps me through tough days--- the hope of something fun on the horizon, whether that’s a night out with my husband, a fun day as a family, or some girl time with a good friend.

What I wish I would have known as a mom of "only two"—that grace is more important than rules, that relationship is more important than being right

What keeps you "sane"— the way I was raised. My mom prepared me well for life. I can only hope to do the same for my kids!

What the Lord has been speaking to you about lately—the answer to “what I wish I would have known as a mom of “just two”!

Advice for moms of teens— I need advice! I am still learning!! I guess that goes back to what I answered for my “what I wish I would have known” answer!

What do you like best about yourself— my passion for writing.

What's on your ipod— Bands most people don’t listen to. The Blue Nile, Chris Rea, Chris Botti, David Gray, Icehouse. Also, lots of 80’s music and a good dose of David Crowder and other praise and worship songs.

Theme song as a mom—My theme song in general is “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John—so I guess that works for motherhood too!

One book you would recommend to read--(besides the Bible) The most important book I read in 08 had to be Passionate Housewives Desperate For God. What a thought provoking, challenging book! Also up there on the list is Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller.

Thank you Marybeth!!

Octomom/Weekend reads

Everything on the news lately is negative. This is obvious. It seems the media can't help but put a negative spin on everything that is going on. I've been somewhat watching the Octomom's story with interest and intrigue. I've been trying to form thoughts on it all. Hard to do when you have pregnancy on the brain. There is this insightful article by Peggy Noonan that scrapes the surface of my thoughts. The thing that bothers me the most about it all is the lack of support for the mother, yet the endless blathering about "it's all about the children". To me, they are one and the same. Elizabeth's post graciously explores her thoughts on it all, and also how it relates to herself. I think it's the best opinion I've read and agree with. Couldn't have said it better.

This mama is going out of town this weekend for a women's retreat. Tomorrow we go for the ultrasound, and we will find out what we are having...hopefully!! So it will be a busy weekend.

See you on Monday!

Mama Monday

Today's lovely Mama Monday is the ever-so-cute Laurel from the blog "Happy at Home".

She describes herself as "DAUGHTER OF THE MOST HIGH - WORK AT HOME MOTHER TO THREE BOYS - WIFE AND FRIEND TO MATT - CRUNCHY CONSERVATIVE - LOVER OF ALL THINGS DOMESTIC, EXCEPT CLEANING THE TOILET"

Now, that's my kind of girl!!

Laurel often will show glimpses into her cozy, comfortable home. It is obvious she has a gift for designing a haven for her family:

Laundry room

Nook in the kitchen. (I adore her yellow chair.) She put it there for her boys to sit and hang out with her while she cooks.

Adorable lettering on her stairs...

A welcoming home.

Laurel has three boys and is expecting her fourth boy this summer.She has always wanted to be a mom of all boys, and now her dream has come true!!

Ladies, I bring you--

Laurel

What is the greatest thing about being a mom?

The greatest thing about being a mom is the deep, strong range of emotions that surfaced after I became a parent. Everything became so much more intense. My love for my children actually physically hurts sometimes, it is so overwhelming. My fears are more real. My compassion for others is much greater. I am less judgmental, the more children I have. As cheesy as it sounds, it really was like I saw life in black and white, and only after I had children did I see in color. It was that big a shift. Also, whoever said that having children was the fast track to sanctification was right!! I am constantly battling my negative emotions too...frustration, anger, etc. Having children shows me my sin with a magnifying glass!

What is the hardest thing about being a mom?

The Hardest thing about being a mom is being consistent and intentional. Though I am physically present with my children almost 24/7, I often mentally check out. Sometimes one of my children can say my name ten times before I even hear him...I am off in la la land with my own thoughts, dreams, and ideas. I have to work very hard to stay present and to actively engage with my children. Also, being consistent in discipline is very tough (OK, impossible).

What are some of your style inspirations?

Some of my Style icons/inspirations are Lauren Hutton, Audrey Hepburn, Anthropologie and J.Crew catalogs, Ralph Lauren, movies: Something's Gotta Give, Chocolat, Babette's Feast, and websites (listed below).

Favorite blogs/websites:

A few of my favorite blogs and websites are:
Labour and Wait
Toast
Etsy
Runner's World
Pleasant View Schoolhouse
Soule Mama
House of Bliss
Nie Nie Dialogues

How do you find balance in your life?

I find balance in my life by staying home a lot. Keeping my schedule really simple and staying home a good deal of the time helps me to focus on my top priorities: my family and my home. When I fill my calendar with too many obligations, I tend to get really frazzled and short with the kids. I try to have friends over to my house, rather than meet them out. It is more relaxed and I enjoy practicing hospitality. Also, my husband and I have a date night every single Monday night. Having that time with him is the highlight of my week. Beyond that, finding balance is always a work in progress, isn't it? My mother is in her mid-fifties and still searching for it. I just try to reconcile that balance is something worth striving for, but probably won't be achieved on any lasting basis because our lives aren't static...they are always changing, the people we love are always changing, and that requires constant adjustment. My favorite book on the subject is Gifts from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh.

One word that describes me: Growing

Hobbies and interests?

Some of my hobbies and interests are:
-Cooking/baking/canning
-Running (and other sports)
-Decorating my home
-Reading
-Natural living (composting, baby wearing, natural cleaning products, simple living, square foot gardening, etc.)

One thing that has been on my mind lately-- is the summer!! I am so looking forward to the long, lazy days of summer...spending time at the beach and the pool. Eating fresh blueberries, watermelon, corn on the cob, and big salads. Listening to Prairie Home Companion with my mom while we cook. The smell of fresh cut grass. Watching the boys on the slip and slide. A tan. My brother's wedding. Our new baby!

I couldn't live without--this is a question that I won't allow myself to take literally because when I think about the things that I think I can't live without, I am embarrassed. Obviously, I could live without my feather comforter, my iphone, my washer and dryer, Kitchen Aid stand mixer, and a dozen other things that I enjoy. I could live without all of them. But they sure are nice to have!

What helps you get through tough days?

What helps me through tough days is talking to my mother on the phone. We only live ten minutes apart but it is a rare morning that I haven't talked to her before 10 am. She raised and home schooled five children and is quite a force of nature. I don't feel guilty whining to her, and while she will lend an ear, she also sets me straight and encourages me to get a grip :) During these last few months, as I have struggled through first trimester nausea, there have been many days that she has brought me food, taken a couple of the kids for a few hours, or just reminded me that this is a very short season of life. I am so, so thankful for her!
Also, "taking 10" really helps me on trying days. I have a cozy chair in a corner of my room, and when I really feel at the end of my rope, I tell the boys that I am taking 10 minutes to myself. I take a cup of hot tea to my chair, close the door, and use that time to take deep breaths, pray for patience/understanding/love/whatever I am lacking, and quote scripture of promise to myself...usually verses that remind me that God has not given me more than I can handle.

Thank you Laurel!!!

My space (not myspace) =)

This is one of my favorite spots in my home. Do you see my laptop? I love to lay in my bed on my laptop. My bedroom is truly my sanctuary. A few years ago we decided to splurge on a very comfortable king size bed. It has been one of the best pieces of furniture that we have spent money on. I say, if you spend more than half your life in the bed, might as well have a very comfortable one. Every night, my husband and I look at each other and sigh, "we love our bed." Truly, it is that great!

Please link to your space if you put it on your blog, or leave a message in the comments about where your special space in your house is. I wasn't able to figure out Mr. Linky in time. I look forward to seeing your space and/or hearing about it.

Good things

It's been a long time since I had a TV show that I liked to watch in the evenings. I don't know why that is. Maybe because there was never anything "good" on, maybe I chose to spend my time differently in the evenings, or maybe I was too snobby to embrace the evening "boob tube." Probably all.
Right now I'm watching "American Idol" on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It's kind of comforting to have something to look forward to in the evenings. And for now, it's good for me.

John Piper in his book A Hunger for God says:

“The greatest enemy of hunger for God is not poison but apple pie. It is not the banquet of the wicked that dulls our appetite for heaven, but endless nibbling at the table of the world. It is not the X-rated video, but the prime-time dribble of triviality we drink in every night. For all the ill that Satan can do, when God describes what keeps us from the banquet table of his love, it is a piece of land, a yoke of oxen, and a wife (Luke 14:18-20). ….the most deadly appetites are not for the poison of evil, but for the simple pleasures of earth.”

ht:Amy

Often I have to assess my life, my choices. Is this choice ultimately good for me? On the first look, it might look that way. But I need to go deeper: Where am I feasting? Where is my hope? 

It's easy to assume that as a Christian, our hope is in Jesus alone. But all kinds of things can creep in, not like poison, to kill us, but like apple pie, putting on the weight. What is my hope in? Often they are good things: taking care of my family, different ideals or choices I have for them, and for me. But when they become our hope, which they can in a millisecond, then they keep us, as Piper said, from the "banquet table of His love."

Where does the "magic" happen?

No, silly, not that magic.

Blogging  magic. Or crafting magic. Or a place in your home that you love to be. A cozy chair, your bed (my personal favorite), your desk, the kitchen. Where you go to again and again for refreshment. I'd love to see where you all love to be. On Friday, I will put up my special place where I can relax and find enjoyment in my day. Will you join? I'll put up a Mr. Linky, and you can link to your space on your own blog. Or write in the comments on Friday where your special space is.

Image from

Martha Stewart's Blogging Studio.

Mama Monday

Today's Mama Monday is a local friend of mine. She is the mama of 2 beautiful young ladies, aged 9 and 5. 

I love what she says on her Etsy site "Children of Eve":

"A designer by trade. I quit the NYC rat race to birth, feed and educate my children. We spend our time making things, growing things and getting caught up in books. I have been making and selling hand made items under the name Children of Eve since 1987."

Ladies, I present to you--->Eve

Why do you create things?

I believe we are made in the image of God, the Creator. I create because it is part of my nature to do so. For me that plays out in many practical ways: for necessity, for enjoyment, even for profit. Though the best comes from just being inspired. Getting that thing out of your head & into reality because you want to.

Why did you start crafting?

I didn’t “start”. As far back as I can remember I was always working on something.

When did you begin to craft/make things?
(same answer as last question)

Is making things an integral part of your life?

Very much so. I always have a project going, usually more than one. My parents & grandparents were continually making things, so I suppose that’a why it’s that way for me. Growing up there were clothes being made, knitting, jewelry, homemade toys, dollhouses, painting, poetry, the garden, robot building & good cameras to take pictures of it all. There was a working darkroom in the basement. I was allowed to use anything I wanted, from melting metal for jewelry to building a giant chicken wire cage for my latest captive “pet”. It’s unfortunate most children don’t have the freedom to create anymore, they are given disposable craft kits that a monkey could put together.

What is the most favorite thing you have made?

Valerie, I call her my therapy doll. I painted her face after a very distressing phone call from my Dad. He wanted me to go with him to identify the body of his wife. I really didn’t want to but said I would. I got off the phone & painted a horrible dead face on the doll I was working on. After it dried & I was more settled I painted over it. Everyone loves that doll, she’s really special. People always comment on her calm, beautiful face. Ha! If they only knew what lies underneath.

(two of Eve's amazing dolls she makes. "Valerie" is on the right.)

What is your greatest accomplishment?

Becoming a decent & trustworthy person, I’ve come a long way.

What are some of your favorite blogs/websites?

Well of course The Flourishing Mother! If I’m in the mood to ponder I head over to Seedlings In Stone with LL Barkat. For encouragement it’s ElizabethFoss.com. I may go to SteveCrespo.com to see if my husband has put up any new stuff. Other than that I just bounce around aimlessly through Etsy, Christian unschooling blogs, and the myriad of really cool healthy food blogs.

Something that has been on your mind lately?

Argh, I’m trying to get this OFF my mind lately, which means it must be on it. What the future of the world will be for my children. Technology is rapidly growing, I don’t want to say “progressing” because much of it is not progress. The new ways to create food, the new ways to fight wars, the effects are so lasting. Where we are headed now, I’m afraid we can’t ever go back. I KNOW that God holds this tangled mess in the palm of His hand & He will straighten it all out. But, it’s still sad. Gotta renew the mind daily.
Sorry if this is bumming you out, this is supposed to be about crafting, right?

How do you balance your life?

By “balance” I take it you mean, how do I make time to do the things I want to do while doing all the things I have to do. I’m pretty disciplined. I try to do everything that has to be done first so there’s always time for the fun stuff. I don’t allow myself treats until I’m done with my work. The same thing goes for my kids, “If we finish this then we get to do that.”

What’s your favorite part of being a mother?

Wow, there’s so much. Well, I’m never lonely, I get to be with these cool little people everyday. It’s never dull. I now have a reason to do the things I enjoy like catching toads, tea parties, making toys, reading children’s books. Children are an excuse to step out of adult mode & enjoy the wonder of the world again.

If you could describe yourself in one word, it would be.....

I have two & they can’t be separated.....happy & thankful.

Thank you, Eve!!!

Mama Monday

We interrupt this blog to say Mama Monday will be back next Monday!! Sorry for the delay--lots of busy mamas are answering interview questions, and I can't wait to introduce you!!