Managing My Minutes

Routine or Schedule.......Routine or Schedule......or both.....or NEITHER! 

As homemakers we make so many decisions each day.  Some of our tasks become routine, wash laundry, put it in the dryer, fold laundry, put away laundry.....but some of them need to be thought out and considered.....or do they?  Have you ever considered that maybe you could make a decision about when to do something, or how to do something, and just do it that exact same way every time?

Welcome to the heart of the home, a schedule.  I've been an on-off scheduler for many years.  I like a schedule.  I don't have to think about anything, I just do what is next and move on.  But then sometimes I am being rebellious and just don't want to do anything on the schedule.  The schedule usually enters the trash can shortly after.

This month's Gabby Moms review item is Managing My Minutes: Do I Really Need To? by Lorrie Flem.  Lorrie uses the book of Nehemiah to remind us why it is so important to plan our minutes, rather than just letting them go by and that God needs to be at the heart of our planning. 

Not really a "how to book", this is a why book.  Lorrie then explains the differences between a routine and a schedule and how each can be more important at different stages of your family.  This is a great foundation book.  I think that maybe I wouldn't have thrown my schedules away so many times if I had understood the flexible nature of the schedule. 

I can't wait to get ahold of Lorrie's bundle about routines; Managing My Minutes: Babies, Preschoolers and Kindergartners.  (or for older children (schedules); Managing My Minutes: The School Years)

This book will be available very soon from Eternal Encouragement; www.eternalencouragement.com


EDITED TO ADD: This booklet is now available at http://www.attentionmoms.com/

The Sugar Creek Gang

Audiobooks are a main-stay in our family.  We really spend a lot of time in the car and it can be wasted time.  We started listening to Jonathon Park and just kept on listening to just about anything that I could get my hands on . 

Beloved books has taken the 1939 stories of the Sugar Creek Gang (originally by Paul Hutchens) and brought them to modern-day readers.  Paul Ramseyer dramatized these books for today's listeners, reading straight from the originals.  The stories are wonderful!  Full of character building adventures, woven with scripture, poems and other interesting tidbits, you will never get bored listening to these stories. 

I've got a large range of ages here, boys ages almost 5-15 and one sweet little girl (age 2).  Abby didn't really get into the stories but ALL the boys did.  I thought they were fantastic as well.

Beloved books has numerous resources available to encourage and strengthen your family.  G.A. Henty books, The Little Britches stories and KJV memory resources are just some of the other products that this wonderful company provides.

Don't take my word for how wonderful these stories are!  You can listen to the complete Swamp Robber story HERE for free! 

When you decide to order (and you WILL) use coupon code Lorrie12 to get $12 off each CD. 

I'm so glad that we were able to enjoy these stories together as a family and I can't wait to get ahold of the next CD - hurry up mailman!!!!!!!

***I received this product for free in exchange for an honest review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.

Artists and Authors by Lorrie Flem - and a GIVEAWAY

Are you looking for a new way to work in character training during your day?  Something simple?  Hands on?  Something that works? 

This little treasure covers 24 character traits, the 10 Commandments, The Fruit of the Spirit, and has lessons on why we celebrate major religious holidays.

I have to say that I have looked at this product for several years.  Never bought it, just looked at it online.  I wondered if it would be one more thing that I would buy and then never use.  As part of the Gabby Moms review program I received a copy in exchange for honest review.  I choose Artists and Authors because I was going to be using it with my little almost-5-year old Bear.  For older children you can choose to use Authors and Artists.

Got other things going on and need to occupy a child for a minute?  Pull this out and read them the scripture or prompt and let them go.  I love that I will have a record of their thoughts and drawings when we are finished with the book.

At $9.97 I really, really wish that I had used this product with my older children (and I still may!).  Don't be silly and wait, like I did.......

Go to www.eternalencouragement.com and check this and other great character building products out. 

Please, enter for a chance to win this great product yourself at Randy's Rib!  You've got nothing to lose and much to gain!

Catching Up......

I think I've used that as a blog post title, but it fits so here goes.......
****Lee turned 15.  I don't think I'm old enough to have a 15 year old, but he is so I must be.
****Greg went to bike camp and Junior High camp at Oil Belt this year.  He was impressed with how more mature the older years of camp are.  I think he enjoyed being more grown up.
****Lee was faculty at Niners week of camp and then attended Deeper Life week.  He also loves camp and especially enjoyed being faculty.
****Abby is starting to talk.  A little.  Most can't understand her.  Heck, half the time I can't understand her.  It is frustrating for all of us.  But we are trying.  I am going to begin working more specifically with her this school year.  The speech therapists refuse to accept her so I'm going to have to do something.
****Lee will be a sophmore this year.
****Greg is going to be a 7th grader this year.  He is starting public school.  He has went to 2 orientations and feels relatively prepared.  All the fees have been paid, all the supplies have been bought. 
Sidenote- when I was homeschooling the older boys full time I would laugh at the public school parents that would complain about school costs, etc.  I mean, I was paying for books and everything.  Let me tell you, if you don't qualify for public aid school is expensive.  I spent $300 just to register the 2 kids.  I will be required to send lunch money and sports fees throughout the year.  Not to mention fundraisers, special events, etc.  I spent $250 buying clothing and shoes for the 2 of them (4 pairs of shoes because you have to have special gym shoes).  Another $238 for the rest of the school supplies (scientific calculators, thumb drives, backpacks......).  I am going broke sending them to school. 
****I will still be homeschooling the 2 littles (at this point I couldn't afford to send them to public school if I wanted to).  I am hoping to scrape together the $124 for MFW Kindergarten.  If not, we will make do with what we have. 
****My AVON business is going well.  I am an Unit Leader and have a wonderful team that I am helping to start their businesses as well.  I love what I do and am blessed to be able to stay at home with my littles while helping to supplement the family income.
****I'm knitting an adorable baby blanket for a friend's new grandbaby.  Gotta stay busy!

I think that's it.  If you are interested in AVON you can go here - www.youravon.com/carieshinn

Have a great day!!!!!

Yelling: The Cause, The Casuality and The Cure

Last November I did a review about this book that Lorrie Flem wrote called Yelling: The Cause, The Casuality and The Cure. 

I thought it might be nice for you to hear how the follow-up has been.  I can honestly say that by employing the techniques, routines and habits that Lorrie suggested, I have really gotten a handle on  yelling.  I still yell, but not every day.  I am able to catch myself and my pity party before it gets too bad.  I have found that regular Bible reading gives me the proper frame of mind to go about my day (sometimes it take a little here and there to make it through) and that regular child training helps all of us to know what is expected and when. 

Now, if you haven't already gotten a copy of this book I have the most fantastic news for you.  On July 24th this book will be FREE for Kindle on Amazon!!!!!  WooHoo!  I told you it was fantastic news. 

AND to help celebrate this wonderful achievement for Lorrie and Eternal Encouragment magazine (www.eternalencouragement.com) Lorrie is hosting a facebook party!  Have you ever been to one of Lorrie's facebook parties?  I have and they are always a blessing.  Worth every second that you spend.  I can promise you will feel like you sat down at a coffee shop with friends. 

Soooo,  I expect to see all of you there!  Make sure to come back and let me know how this book has blessed you and your family.  I know it will!!!!!

What's For Dinner, Mom?

Those are the words that strike fear into this mother's heart.  They really do.  Especially if they are asked anytime after 3 p.m. and I don't have an answer. 

We aren't wealthy...we aren't even close.  So we can't just go to Hardees (3 doors down) or call for pizza.  And 9 times out of 10, all the supper options are in the freezer.  The worst place in the world for the supper options to be at 3 p.m. (for the record, we eat supper early, usually in between 4 and 5). 

I've done menu plans.  They work.  If you remember to make a plan, shop for the plan.  They work if your wonderful husband doesn't get into the food and make something else while you are at work.  They work if you remember to look at the plan in the morning and get things out to thaw.  I can't remember anything so meals can be a big problem here.

Once-a-month cooking intimidates me.  I figure if it takes me most of the afternoon to deal with one meal, then I don't have a hope to get more than 1 done in a day. 

This month's review item for Gabby Moms is What's For Dinner, Mom? by Lorrie Flem. 

Lorrie takes the first few chapters of this book (available for $12.97 from Eternal Encouragement) and explains the various methods of bulk cooking.  She gives you a little background on her family and that of her friend Karen.  (They are normal, busy people.  They are not Wonder Woman - I don't think anyway) 

Then Lorrie explains how SHE does bulk cooking.  She shares some of her favorite recipes and gives tips so you can modify your family's favorites to this method.  She makes bulk cooking do-able.  Now, I think I can do it.  And boy do I need to do it.  What a blessing I could be to my family! 

So, thank you to Lorrie!  You have taken the dread out of supper preparation.  I don't have to be home in order for our family to have a decent meal.  My family thanks you!

PLEASE COMMENT AND LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN YOUR OWN COPY OF THIS WONDERFUL RESOURCE.  THEN YOUR FAMILY CAN THANK LORRIE TOO!

****I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.****

What's New with Us

Welcome Summer! 
I think it is finally here and I am glad to see it.  Although the winter was very mild here, I am thankful for sunshine, warm breezes and a few trees to sit under in our yard.  We are outside all the time.  Our garden is growing well and we are enjoying green onions, salad greens, spinach and even picked our first zucchini!  WooHoo! 

Finally school got out.  Greg tested into the 7th grade for the fall, so come August I will have a 10th grader and a 7th grader.  Not real sure how I feel about that.....so I'm not going to think about it.  LOL

Bear and Abby are great.  They are enjoying the swimming pool.  You have to practically drag Abby home from the pool.  She loves it!  So glad that they are able to enjoy it and have fun on the hot days.  Although I prefer not to be there, it could definately be worse. 

Camp season is upon us.  Greg is going to Bike Camp next week.  They will ride 20 miles a day at the Land Between the Lakes area in KY/TN.  It will be his first year but he is going with a lot of friends so should have a blast!  Lee is faculty at 1 camp in July and attending as a camper another week in July, then Greg will go another week in August.  So busy!!!!  Then school will start, but we aren't talking about that.

The stomach flu has hit here.  Lee was "sick" last Saturday.  Abby was sick on Sunday (she threw up for 12 hours).  Bear was sick on Thursday (another 12 hours) and Greg has been sick today (Friday - and another 12 hours).  Assuming that Lee actually had it (although a mild case by far) on Saturday that means that all the kids have passed it around.  It is possible that Norman also had a very mild case on the weekend but he has stomach issues sometimes so it is hard to tell.  So that leaves me.  Its like waiting in line for the guillotine......you know its coming and you wait with dread.  I don't see how it could miss me, but if you can OD on lysol and hand sanitizer, I am your girl.  Praying for a miracle.

I'm working outside the home 2 days a week now.  I average about 20 hrs a week.  I get to do some reading/sewing while there so it isn't like it is hard labor.  LOL  But I really have to play catch-up the rest of the days here at home.  Norman is home on the days I work so he cares for the kids, but not so much the house.  Also, I restarted my AVON business.  I gave it up when I got pregnant with Bear.  I missed it.  Really working hard to build  my customer base and make Unit Leader.  I've got a great team of 8 business partners so I am hoping next week will be my week :)  It is wonderful to meet new people and help them reach their dreams.  If you would like to be my customer you can go HERE.  Just make sure to choose direct delivery if you aren't local :)

I'm super tired so going to go lay down for a bit.  Hope that all are good and I will post again soon!

Chores: Many Hands Make Light Work AND a Giveaway

Housework

Nobody likes it.  I mean really?  Maybe you enjoy it, but I don't.  Over the years I have learned that it is a necessary evil and I have come to enjoy the routine of it and the order that is the result......I will never love scrubbing the toliets or bathtubs or cleaning up little people's rooms.  I don't do it perfectly.  I probably don't even do it well but I do the best I can with what I have.  I have come to accept that my best is enough.

Part of housework, or maybe home management, is chores.  Chores are the housework done by little people.  Oh, how I struggled the first few years to get my older 2 children to do chores.  I finally resorted to paying them.  Now that they are older they do better.  Now I am training the little ones. 

This month I was asked to review Chores: Many Hands Make Light of the Work for the May review as part of the Gabby Moms blogging program.  This isn't a book or an audio.  It is a bundle.....4 audios and 6 e-books, all pertaining to the topic of chores.  Chores for you and chores for your children.  How to get chores done.  How to encourage others to do their chores.  Efficient ways to get things done.  Lorrie also discusses the Biblical basis behind chores and our attitudes regarding work.

Here is a list of everything that is included in this bundle:
Audios:
God Blesses This House, but He Doesn't Clean It
God Blesses This House, but He Doesn't Organize It
12 Super Simple Time Saving Tips
Cheerful Children and Challenging Chores

E-books:
Neat and Tidy, Tried and True Organization Tips
Turn Housework Into Fun and Games
Teach Your Kids How to Clean a Kitchen
Teach Your Kids How to Clean a Bathroom
Keep it Clean and Toxin Free
DIY Cleaning Supplies

All this is available from www.eternalencouragment.com for $24.97

Tidbits that I took away from this bundle:
**We are blessed that we need help - God has blessed us abundantly with our home, possessions and family!
**Give children guidelines BEFORE they start
**Make every minute of the day count
**I LOVE the marble chore reward method.....I guess you will have to get the bundle to see what I am talking about :)

NOW.......I have a giveaway for you :)  YOU can get a copy of this bundle for yourself.  To enter go HERE and leave a comment before May 31st and one winner will be selected and notified via email.

I received this product as part of the Gabby Moms review program in exchange for an honest and fair review.

It's a Facebook Party!!!!!

As a mom, we hold a lot of job titles and lets be honest, we aren't exactly pulling in the big bucks :)  We are paid in hugs, kisses and the knowledge that we are fullfilling our God given roles as wives and mothers.  With that said, sometimes I am empty.  KWIM?  I think that we all feel that way sometimes.  I love reading blogs, magazines and email and many times I get the encouragement that I need from that.  Another wonderful resource of encouragement for me is facebook.  The best thing on facebook (in my opinion) is a facebook party.  Lots of people gathered in one spot (computer techy speaking anyway - you don't want to hear my theory on the internet) talking about a common theme.  An honest to goodness party!  With gifts :)  Want to join the party on Monday May 14th? 

See you there!!!!!

Eternal Encouragement Magazine and More

This month's Gabby Moms review selection was Eternal Encouragment Magazine.  Sometimes these review items are such a hardship! ((NOT!!!!!))

I've been an EE subscriber for years......since it was TEACH magazine.  You've probably heard me ramble on and on about it before.  But I'm going to do it again.  Why?  Because in the truck load of magazines that are available out there, Eternal Encouragement is a rarity, a real gem.  I can only think of 2 other magazines that even compare and they aren't "mainstream" either. 

When I was a new wife, I set out to find a magazine that would help me be the best wife and mother I could possibly be.  So off I went to gather up the popular woman's magazines.....Good Housekeeping, Ladies Home Journal, Better Homes and Gardens, Woman's Day.......surely I could find one that would help me out.  Alas, I couldn't and I became discouraged.  Apparently a woman's place wasn't at home, serving her family anymore.  I struggled along until I found TEACH magazine (now Eternal Encouragement).  THIS is what I had been looking for.  HELP with homemaking routines, practical parenting advice, godly encouragement.  That's what Eternal Encouragment is all about.

The Spring 2012 issue continues to help, encourage and uplift woman in their godly calling as wives and mothers.  Some of this issue's topics include......
***Two-Legged Eeyores and the Nehemiah 8:10 Cure
***CHAOS (Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome)
***Marriage Interrupted
***10 Reasons We Need to Think About Hospitality
***First Fruits

Subscriptions to this amazing publication are available in  printed and digital formats. Any subscription receives the NEW EE Etc. Web Magazine that is published 8 times a year. This has full magazine articles that are only available to Eternal Encouragement Subscribers via a new online magazine website.  A one year printed subscription is $19.97 and a one year digital subscription is $12.97.  Each are published 4 times a year.  Subscribe to either HERE.

Still don't know what Lorrie Flem and Eternal Encouragement are all about?  Check out Lorrie's website at www.eternalencouragement.com

I received this product for free as part of the Gabby Moms program in exchange for a fair review :)

Tot School This Week

I remembered to take pictures!

The weather outside has been wonderful!  Nice and warm :) 

Mommy playing football.  I am not a football player.  I am a football watcher.  Dh was taking pictures.  He should have been playing.  LOL

We played with bigger brothers......here are Abby, Jeffrey (brother at heart), Bear and Gregory

Please take note of Abby's clothes.  I dressed her and then she fixed herself up with a couple more shirts and Bear's cowboy boots.  She wore it all proudly......

Bear has gotten really good at staying in the lines.  I think we are almost ready to start some writing exercises.

Abby loves pegs.  See her tongue sticking out?  It works better that way.  I got these from Oriental Trading Company.  We use them to build, count, sort colors.

She finally figured out how to stack them herself :)

We also played the Two by Two Matching Game from Alphabet Alley. 

Bear's awana verse this week was Through Him all things were made John 1:3

It's been a great week :)

Recently Completed Projects

I complete projects all the time....the problem is that I rarely take pictures of them.  LOL Here are 2 such projects.

This is the window seat in the sitting room (aka, Ping Pong table room).  Abby and I love to sit here but it was kinda hard.  I had a whole bundle of coordinating fat eighths.  I cut each one into forths, mixed them up and put them all back together with a double layer of quilt batting.  I used leftovers for binding and then tied them with crochet thread.  I made 3 and they fit perfectly.  The pillow in the corner was made by my grandmother, for me, a few years ago.  Isn't it cute???  This is what you could see out the window seat window until the snow came on Sunday.  Aren't they beautiful?  I'm so ready for spring.

I made this wreath last night to replace the silver/blue winter one.  I bought the ribbon at walmart but couldn't find a wreath form anywhere local.  So I ordered one.  I didn't want one this big and I don't really like the straw but it is what it is and it is done.  I did it last night with dh's help with the hanging.

I cut the ribbon into lengths and then just tied them all the way around. 

I also finished a shawl and some dishcloths but they didn't make it to the camera this week.  I'll try again next week :)

Tot School

I was doing good on this but then flaked out with the move and such.  Please forgive me!   Finally, I've gotten back in the swing of things with the kids.  Greg is doing 6th grade Switched on Schoolhouse for his lessons so I have very minimal work with him.  Bear is 52 months (4 1/2) and Abby is almost 22 months. 

Awana lesson and memory work.  Both listen to the lesson, Bear does the memory work.

Coloring Worksheets (Bear)
- letter B sheet
- #3 and 3 animals sheets
- letter C sheet

(Abby)
Hello Kitty coloring pages

Hands-On activities (both)
- finger/Qtip painting
- cutting activity (Bear)
- glue/yarn activity


Books we read:
The Greedy Python by Eric Carle
Bedtime Bear
What Really Happened to the Dinosaurs?
Lemony Sknicket: The Lump of Coal
Beaver Gets Lost
Mouse's First Fall by Lauren Thompson
Red Sled by Lita Judge
Bedtime Words - Usborne
Triceratops
Allosaurus
Stegosaurus
Graphic Design Pterandon, Oviraptor and Pachycephalosaurus (3 books)

We also read extensively from our home library.  Extensively.  I imagine that we spend 2-3 hours a day reading aloud.  Whatever suits their fancy.  I am going to try to implement book baskets with "focus" books each week for each of them.  We will see how that goes.  I am also implementing "theme" weeks.  Didn't happen last week, or this week, but it will come in the future.  I am getting a lot of my ideas from Totally Tots.  I've borrowed her ideas for Bear since he was very small.  Bear will be transitioning to preschool starting next fall.

Last week we also had a trip to the library here in town.  Another day we took a bike ride to the local skate park.  Bear got to ride his own bike with brother Greg while Abby (in the stroller) and I (pushing) followed along.  It is an easy 4-5 blocks to that small park and we enjoyed a wonderful hour playing before coming back home.  That day was beautiful!  It snowed again last night.  Grrrr.  I'm ready for spring.

I promise to do better with pictures.  Dh bought a new camera that I am trying to learn the ropes on. 

Project Planning and Organization

First let me tell you what I see as I sit here at the dining room table:  2 rooms over we have a ping pong table (in the sitting room of all places LOL)....currently under the ping pong table are 4 children, ages 14-22 months.  They are playing war or campout or something (I really haven't been paying attention).  It makes my heart so happy to see all these kids playing together so nicely.  I just had to share!

Now back to the topic at hand.  Project organization.  This could be ANY project but for the sake of time/space considerations lets tackle crafty type projects. 

In this new house I have a sewing room.  That should solve the problem, right.  WRONG!  I am a little ADHD, or maybe  alot ADHD.....or maybe I lost significant brain cells with the birth of each child (and extra with Abby because she was a girl).....I don't know what is wrong with me.  I have a project planning problem. 

I like to knit, sew, quilt and do other "crafty" type things (this problem also carries over into the kitchen and homeschool but lets stay on topic for now).  Here is a list of my current "wish I could do" projects:
**ribbon to make a spring wreath for the front door - but no wreath form.  So the Christmas/winter wreath is still out there
**knitted Jane Austin dress for Abby - I actually have the pattern, needles and yarn for this but not the material for the skirt
**knitted Jane Austin shrug for the above dress - I have the pattern and yarn (the yarn actually coordinates with the yarn for the dress) - NO needles
**sweater for Abby - I have yarn.  NO pattern.  No idea if I have enough yarn.  I might have needles that will work.  I will know when I decide on a pattern.  The yarn is currently living on the above mentioned ping pong table.
**sweater for Abby - I ordered a kit from Mary Maxim for an adorable cardigan sweater.  Should be here any day.  Who knows if I have the right sized needles but it should come with the yarn and pattern
**quilt for me? Abby?  - I bought 9 yards of coordinating material (in sage green/pink).  I found a pattern that I LOVE but don't have enough material for it.  Can't find another pattern that I like.  If I do, I DON'T have batting or backing material.  The material is currently living on the ping pong table.
**dresses for Abby - I have the material sitting upstairs for AT LEAST 5 dresses for Abby.  I also have 1 new dress pattern for Abby.  I can't decide what I want to make.
**I have been busy buying pattern books....lace knitting, theme knitting, quilting.  I have found a ton of things I want to make.  How am I going to keep all this straight?
**I want to make a pillow for the window seat (might have the material and pillow form)
**I want to knit a coffee cup huggie - I have some patterns, I have some yarn, I don't know if they will work together though.....
**I have the pattern for a beautiful lace shawl for me.  Don't have needles and can't decide on yarn.


Right now my sewing room, that started off fairly neat, looks like someone threw up a bunch of material/yarn and trash all over it.  The ironing board is covered with stuff I laid there earlier today.  Stuffed animals that need repair are on the floor.  Yarn is EVERYWHERE (but not really good yarn...it is itchy acrylic yarn in small bits of each color.  I am thinking of donating it just so I don't have to look at it any more.  It was given to me by my mil who used to do plastic canvas).  Material is everywhere. 

I thought about small bins or boxes to put project parts in until I was ready to do them.  Like put the yarn, pattern, needles in a small box so that it was there and I could just pick it up when I am looking for something to work on and it will be ready.  Does anyone think that's a good idea?  Any other ideas?  At this point I need HELP.  Maybe an intervention.  And a professional organizer.  And a maid (so I have time to do all these wonderful projects).....and 28 hours in my day.

I am open to any and all suggestions as this is also the problem with cooking projects (I have a recipe but not ingredients or an idea but no recipe) and homeschooling stuff (I want to do a project with the kids only to find out that I don't have the stuff).  Please help!!!!!!

The Three Weavers

The Three Weavers plus Companion Guide
by Robert and Shelley Noonan

Several months ago, I applied to review a product for Pumpkin Seed Press.  I do that all the time :)  Anyway, the reviewer contract and form came in the mail just before we moved, so I didn't submit it until after Christmas.  I had to choose a book and knowing almost nothing about their products (they come recommended from a friend, but that is it) I chose The Three Weavers.

I had NO idea what the book was about.  When it came I skimmed the cover and then set it down......why?  Because it is a Father's Guide to Guarding His Daughter's Purity.  In case you hadn't noticed, I am a mother, not a father.  And our daughter is not quite two.  Hmmmm. 

But I had AGREED to review this book so I took it to work with me last week.  I honestly expected to muddle through it and write the review and hope to never hear from Pumkin Seed Press again.

Boy, was I in for a wonderful surprise!  I couldn't. put. the. book. down.  (It is a blessing that I don't have a very demanding part time job.  LOL)  Yes, the book is for fathers.  Yes it is for the father to work through with his 9-12 year old daughter.  No, I am not a father or a 9-12 year old daughter.  I WISH that my dad had done something like this with me.  I wonder what heartache I would have been saved.  I wonder how close our relationship would be now, if he had taken the time to invest his heart into my life like this.

But I digress.  The "story" part of this book is an allegory about 3 weavers and their daughters.  I'm not going to ruin it for you.  It is wonderful!  Anyway, each little section of the story is followed by discussion questions for the father/daughter and a Bible study for the father to do alone (before going through that section with his daughter).  There are small projects for each to complete along the way, all designed to tie their hearts together forever and teach wonderful truths of purity to young daughters. 

 Designed to last through 7 weeks, this study is totally complete and ready to use.  I KNOW how busy dads are.  My dear husband would never have the time to do this if it wasn't all set up for him.  As I read through this book, though, I believe that he could and would do this with our daughter when she is old enough.  Ending with a family purity ceremony, I can't think of any little girl that wouldn't love to spend this one on one time with her daddy. 

Available from Pumpkin Seed Press, The Three Weavers, is a wonderful book on the study of purity and encourages fathers and daughters to a deeper relationship, mirrored by the relationship we all have with our Heavenly Father.  I can't be more pleased that I was able to read through this resource and look forward to using it in the future.  If you would also like a copy it is available for $10.50 HERE.  I can't wait to see what other products Pumpkin Seed Press has available for our family.

***I received this product for free from Pumpkin Seed Press in exchange for my honsest review.***

12 Super Simple Time Saving Tips for Moms

Have you been reading along with me lately?  If you have, I'm sure you have noticed that I've been a bit frazzled.  I guess I forgot how crazy life was with 2 littles.....and then add in the activities and needs of 2 teenagers!  I am catching myself as I run in circles.  lol  I needed a little encouragement this week (did you read Hacked?????)

Anyway, this is what I've been listening to:

Let me start off by saying that I am eternally grateful to the inventor of mp3.  I WISH had I time to sit down and read a book (I keep adding things to my poor kindle).  Right NOW, I don't.  So I loved that this was something that I could listen to while doing other things.....like cleaning up lipstick (but I digress).

I have read ALL the organizing, home management books out there (before the babies were born, when I still had time to read).  I have gleaned a few good tidbits here and there that managed to stick.  Listening to Lorrie, however, made me believe that I COULD figure this whole thing out.  She doesn't demand that I do things her way.  She doesn't give me a one-size-fits-all schedule.  She encourages me to make my priorities my priorities and keep my eyes on the prize. 

I especially appreciated her encouragement to do the little things first.  I hate how I have a million things that need done and most of them take less than 5 minutes.  But there they sit on my to-do list, waiting for me.  I do find that my days go much more nicely when I spend the first 15 minutes doing those little jobs.  THEN I can tackle a bigger job.  AND I feel like I have done something, even if those 15 minutes are the only things that get marked off. 

I also appreciate Lorrie's reminder to take things as they come.  My priorities for my day need to revolve around my God, my husband and my children.  That might mean that I get the laundry done, bless hubby with his favorite supper and cookies and do lots of reading/game playing with the babies.  If that's all that gets done, I have had a banner day!  My priorities were my priorities, and in the end that is what matters each day.  This is a season.  In a few years there won't be any more lipstick episodes or stories to read. 

Thank you Lorrie for reminding me of that!

Let Lorrie share her heart with you!  You can get 12 Super Simple Time Saving Tips for Moms at Eternal Encouragment.com for $6.97 and can start listening right away!  Trust me, you will be glad that you did.

***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Gabby Moms program.***

Hacked

A few days ago, my email was hacked.  (I have hotmail if anyone cares about things like that)  I sent out apology emails and changed my password.  I made the mistake of thinking that life would continue on normally.  I thought wrong. 

Today hotmail locked me out of my email account.  I can't balance my bank statement, check on online receipts or work with my Gabby Moms blogging group.  I had to answer a bunch of mundane questions and maybe, in 24 hours, hotmail will grant me permission to access my own email account again.  To say that I am frustrated is an understatement.

I made the mistake, a few hours ago, of dozing off in my recliner while the babies were playing in the living room (yes, it was about noon.  yes, I was exhausted.  still am)  Anyway, while I was dozing Abby got into my purse, found a tube of lipstick and commenced to rubbing it all over her face (all the way to her eyebrows), neck, ears, hair and hands.  Somewhere along the way she also got it on the carpet.  THEN Bear decides to wake me up.  (((sigh)))  Things just aren't going my way today.

I have to say that I have a great appreciation for working mothers.  I have been working part time since July - one day a week and only on my husband's day off.  Beginning in February I began working both of my husband's days off.  So I am working 2 days a week, right now just afternoons (about 4 hours a day).  It could increase to 10 hour days again like it was most of the summer/fall.  I am exhausted.  I am chasing my tail trying to keep up with everything and making a miserable job of it.  I am grouchy when I shouldn't be and I know that the stress is showing in the care of my home.  I don't know when the last time was that I made bread or spent considerable time crafting and I don't dare ask for a little time alone for me because my poor dh is spending his whole days off taking care of the kids while I am gone (NOT that he wouldn't gladly give me time if I asked, I just feel bad asking).  Today I fell asleep at noon.  Noon.  It wasn't like I had a hard morning.  I had done considerable cleaning, but I had also colored with Abby and read books.  Nothing I did was heavy labor.  But all heck broke loose when I fell alseep and now the email thing really has me upset.  Not that it really matters, kwim? 

Well, I guess, this is my "day in a life of me" post.  Not very cheerful eh?  At least now you know I am human and struggle (like you could have missed that).  Keeping it real.  Pray for me if you feel led.  I need some rest; spiritual, emotional and physical. 

Have a great weekend!
Carie

Oh Pinterest

Our plans for the day were fairly simple....quick trip to walmart for paintballs (and the rest of the stuff on my list, but that's why we were going) and then dropping the older 2 boys and later dh at a friend's paintball game.  Then the babies and I would muddle through the rest of the day as best we could until they got home again.

I say muddle because the babies are in that stage where things are difficult.  Yesterday Abby wouldn't stop playing with the light.  I would spank her, put her in a corner for a minute or so and when I would allow her out she would go back and do it again......repeat punishment....and again....5 times total.  I was about ready to pull my hair out.  That was after she had been very whiny and Bear is being clingy.  I just wanted to run away! 

We managed along till the end of the day when Daddy got home from working overtime, took Abby and she instantly went to sleep.  Fine then, be that way!  LOL 

Paintball got canceled this morning.  The older boys are having friends over this afternoon.  I don't know when I will go shopping.  Abby is still whiny, but so far Bear is playing xbox kinect.  I know it is just a faze.  I know that it was my unluckiness that had both of them hitting difficult days together (isn't that how it goes????).

So, I've been amusing myself with Pinterest. Love that site!  I am normally on my kindle which doesn't allow me to pin from there.  Today I am on a computer and happily pinning away.  So many great ideas!  So many fussy babies :(  LOL  At least a girl can dream.....and print off yummy recipes. 

If you want to check out my boards I am Carie Shinn on pinterest.  Happy pinning!!!!!

A Little Bit of Sunshine on a Busy Day

Hi guys! (or girls....probably girls lol)  I could apologize, again, for the length of time between blog posts, but honestly....here's the deal......I'm a wife and mommy first.  I stay pretty busy (gasp!  but you are a stay-at-home-mom, we all know they don't do much!) homeschooling Greg and occassionally Bear, trying to maintain order in a house full of children, love and read to Abby......I have meals to prepare and laundry to wash and homework to grade or help with.  All the normal wife and mother stuff.  I also work outside of our home 2 days a week.  If I have any free time I love to knit, sew, read and write.  Honestly though, the writing tends to be at the bottom of the list.  I LOVE to write, but for me writing requires quiet.....and that just doesn't happen here. Today happens to be a semi-quiet day :)

I read all the time.  For me reading doesn't require quiet.  I have the ability to tune the kids out sometimes :)  I love little encouraging articles that I can read in a minute or 5 and take something from to apply to my current situation.  You may wonder what magazine I prefer.....it isn't a magazine (well, I do love the magazine, but this is quicker).....it is the Eternal Encouragment e-newsletter written and produced by Lorrie Flem. 

I jotted down some of January's topics (the newsletter comes to your email box every Thursday):
**I can do all things.......let God do what I can't (I needed this, I tend to think that I can do EVERYTHING - but that's probably another blog post)
**Stick-to-it-Ness.....interruptions happen, how to embrace them and keep things moving in your life
**Are you missing God's treasures......an encouragement to read and study the Old Testament stories and characters
**Happiness......happiness is a journey not a destination
**recipes....hamburger bun pizza, chicken divan
**coupons for Lorrie's products......you don't want to miss the great stuff Lorrie has in her shop.  Take a gander around here for a while for more reviews of Lorrie's stuff.  I LOVE Lorrie's stuff :)

I know you are waiting for the most important part........its FREE!  Yes, free.  Not a free trial.  Not a free 6 month subscription.  FREE.  As in, get your fingers clicking, what are you waiting for, FREE.  Got it?  So what are you waiting for?  When you subscribe you will get a free ebook Organizing Happiness and on Thursday you will get a newsletter directly to your email box.  Go HERE and scroll about halfway down the page to sign up. 

Love ya all and hope that you have a wonderful weekend!

******I received this newsletter for free and you can too :)  This review is an honest opinion of my thoughts as part of the Gabby Moms review program.

Kindle Cover

One of the gifts that I was blessed with this Christmas was a Kindle Fire.  I can't begin to tell you how much I LOVE that thing.  It is very difficult to put down :)  But put it down I must.  And I don't want it to get wet, or scratched or damaged.......so......I made it a cozy.

I didn't use a pattern. Just cut some cotton for the front and back and some felt pieces for the padding......all a little bigger than the Kindle.  I attatched a little bit of green braid for the loop and a button for the closure.  I did a repeat this afternoon for a friend of Lee's and it took less than 30 mins.

Let's see.....oh yes, I was going to share about my Christmas projects.  I've made a ton of hats.  Tons.  And I made an adorable shawl for my mother-in-law.  I'll try to get a picture of that.  And then I made coasters.  I actually cut up the blocks from a quilt top that I made but never got laid out right.  I traced around a CD and made a sandwich with random pieces and a same-sized piece of felt.  They are very, very cute. 

This week I started/finished a knitted baby bib.  I'm not sure of the practicality of them but it is adorable!  Now I'm working on a cowl for me.  Picture to come when I get it finished.  (I'm not the best at remembering pictures!)

But isn't that kindle cover adorable?????  Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!!!!!

I hope all of my dear readers can feel the love and presence of our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ during this season of Christmas.  Also, I want to thank all of you for hanging in there with me for another year, I treasure each and every one of you!

Last night we had a big Christmas dinner with Norman's mother, her boyfriend, his sister, her daughter and friend and our son's girlfriend.  I prepped most of the meal on Wednesday and then Norman did all of the cooking while I was at work on Thursday.  We had a beautiful, delicious smoked ham, hashbrown casserole, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, deviled eggs and bavarian dinner rolls.  My mother-in-law fixed some pies.  Everything was delicious!  The only shadow on the evening is the severe illness of my mother-in-law's oldest sister, Joyce.  She has had some severe complications following a surgery she had last week.  The doctor's don't think that she will make it.  Unfortunately, she is in a hospital in Texas, and of course, we are all in Illinois.  Her husband and children are with her and our prayers are with them all.

Norman has to work on Christmas day so the children and I will attend church services and then come home and await his arrival.  We have so much to be thankful for and many blessings this year.  I feel like I don't deserve anything more. 

I'm beginning to work through my goals for the year and next month.  I kinda let that go with the moving/Thanksgiving/Christmas but they are going to be back.  Its good to keep me accountable.  Looking forward to some down time with the kids next week. 

I thought I had a lot to say but turns out maybe that is it.  I hope that all of you have a blessed holiday weekend with your families. 

Playing Catch-up.....With Pictures

We had our family portraits taken recently and I just got the disk back today.  So I ordered Christmas cards (they will be late going out if you are expecting one!) and some prints.  Will go back later and order more for grandparents and such.  The pictures are great!  My children are very photogenic :) 

Gregory Robert - age 11

Leland David - age 14

Norman Matthew - age 4

Abigail Caroline - age 19 months

That's a yawn.....taking pictures is HARD work!

Mommy's little girl.

The last 3 weeks or so have been VERY hectic.  I did some sewing for a friend (WITH my friend Shanna) - a 81x81inch comforter and curtains.  I still need to do matching pillowcases but that will wait until after Christmas.  I've been knitting like a crazy woman.  Hats for all the kids (Abby is wearing hers in some of the pictures above) and for myself.  A few gifts :)  And sewing some gifts (can't divulge what yet but I will after Christmas - easy peasy and soooo cute!).  I have my sewing room set up the way I think I want it.  We will see.  It was insane how much fabric and yarn I have.  I solemnly swear that I will try not to buy anymore yarn or fabric until I use some of what I have......unless I go to MBT....then I can't promise anything.  I had better get back to knitting and sewing :)

I've been baking like a crazy kid.  The 3 youngest kids helped me make sugar cookies on Monday.  There were so many sprinkles on the kitchen floor that it was like walking on marbles.  We took or will be taking cookie plates to our neighbors....some of them are difficult to catch at home. 

The Christmas spirit is alive and well here :)  I love that I am able to enjoy it with my little family while we remember the real reason for the season.  All 4 children took part in our little church's Christmas poduction.  I am hoping that someone took pictures that I can get my hands on.  Lee was Joseph, Greg was a wise man, Bear was a sheep and Abby was a little angle.  After the play Lee and Greg joined some friends in whistling We Wish You a Merry Christmas and playing a few songs with the bells.  We are Christmas carolling on Wednesday night.  I love to go Christmas carolling.  I can't wait!!!!!!!

I hope that all of you are enjoying the wonderful time of year that is Christmas.  Remember our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and cherish the time that you can spend with your family.  Hugs to all my friends!!!!!!! 

2011 Gabby Moms Program - A Year in Review

As most of you know by now, I have been a member of the Eternal Encouragement Gabby Moms program during the pilot year, 2011.  I thought I would share a little about my experience and share what I have learned throughout the past year...........

I came to The Gabby Moms program as a "seasoned reviewer".  I've been reviewing homeschool products for TEACH magazine (now Eternal Encouragment) for years.  I was also a member of the 1st year TOS Homeschool Crew and still occassionally do reviews for The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.  I also review books through the Blogging for Books program (as you can tell I LOVE to read and learn).  With all that "experience" under my belt, I have to say that The Gabby Moms program has been the most encouraging group of ladies that I have ever worked with.  The products were GREAT, however, I was most blessed by the group of encouraging ladies that I could be in instant contact with (through email and facebook).  I spoke with Cindy and Lorrie Flem via telephone over the last year and came away encouraged, refreshed and ready to give another day a good shot.

The products that Lorrie offers through Eternal Encouragement are encouraging, down in the trenches products.  Lorrie doesn't speak of lofty objectives or philosophical theories.  She writes or talks about mothering, being a wife, managing a home and speaks as one that has done these things and has experience about how to be the best wife and mother that you can be.  I can honestly say that I have been blessed by every single product that I have received and that God, in His timing, always managed to send the product that I most needed at that time.  This program has never been a burden because I was reading/listening/reviewing something that was directly applicable to MY life.  What a blessing!!!!!

So, that's my experience as part of the 2011 Gabby Moms program.  I am so thankful to be able to say that I will be a part of the 2012 Gabby Moms program as well.  Please come back and look forward with me for what Lorrie has to share with us in the upcoming year :) 

Pictures...........

So here are some pictures I've been promising you.  We had our "professional" photos done (how professional can the photos be when you can't get everyone to sit still for 5 seconds????  Our photographer works miracles.) so the blog pictures should be updated soon and I will share my favorites then.  Something is wrong with our camera so all of these are from my phone which doesn't do the best, but we work with what we have.

The first 2 pictures were taken at the Shinn Family reunion over Thanksgiving.

This is Stan (Norman's dad) and all of his grandchildren.  Back row: Leland holding Abby next to Greg.  Middle row: Noah, Bear, Alice, Grandpa Stan, Nolan.  Front row: Christopher. Off to the side holding mommy's hand, Chloe

This picture is 4 of the 6 Shinn brothers.  The 2 missing are older than Norman.  Back row: Josh, Timothy, Christopher and Norman.  Front row: Stan.....Missing are Stanley Jr. and Stanley Wayne (don't ask)

Today, the babies were helping with the laundry (as evidenced by the laundry - clean - all over the laundry room floor).  Apparently that involved getting in the dryer.  You can just barely see Bear's white hair already in there.

This is the window seat in the sitting room.  Abby loves to sit here and look at books.  It makes a perfect spot to sit and knit also. 

Well, that's it for now :)

Yelling

As most of you know, we moved almost 3 weeks ago.  Although the move was an answer to pray and a very real gift from God, moving is stressful.  I am still looking for things and working through routines in a new-to-us, bigger home.  Let me give you an taste of what yesterday was like at our house......

I got up late.  My husband is on vacation so I didn't wake up until I had to get my oldest son up for school.  Abby (18 months) woke up at the same time.  We wake Lee and then drag downstairs and start the coffee pot.....and the laundry.  Lee comes downstairs to tell me that he can't find his coat and has no idea when the last time he had it was.  (we just came back from a thanksgiving trip :( )  He needs a hoodie clean because it is very cold and he walks about 3 blocks to school now.  Both of his hoodies are in the laundry.....one in the washing machine.  He is frustrated that I didn't have his hoodie clean and I am irritated that he has lost his coat.  I sit back down with my cup of coffee, irritiated about the coat, the fact that I haven't had my quiet time yet, irritated that my hard-working husband is still asleep, irritated that I have a huge list of to-do's to do today........then Abby tries to pick up my coffee cup and spills it all over the end table and my phone (thankfully it wasn't hot and didn't burn her).  I yell at her.  Frustrated that I can't even drink my coffee in peace, I get Lee's hoodie into the dryer (and dry before he needs to leave for school - go me!) and then take inventory of the kitchen.  The older boys "cleaned" it last night after supper.  But they didn't wipe down the counters or table, put away the clean dishes, or even wash all the dirty ones.  In their defense, they've never cleaned a kitchen before so I should have been thankful that they were trying to help.  Instead I was irritated that I was having to do it when my morning was already going so badly.  Then Abby starts taking stuff out of cabinets (we haven't installed child locks yet) so I yell at her again and shove stuff back in there.  I am unhappily washing dishes a few minutes later when Abby toddles up behind me and bites me on the butt!  (((Abby has been biting a lot lately and we are dealing with it.  Yesterday was the 3rd time in 3 days that she has bitten me.  Bear is usually the recipient of her teeth marks.  She also got a hold of her dad yesterday afternoon.)))  My screaming woke my husband and both the other boys.  Poor Abby got a terrible butt-spanking.  I felt terrible and my day was only getting worse.

In fact, my day did get better.  I was able to complete all my to-do's, have a quick fast food lunch down the street with my family.  The house was clean when the nice man came to install the internet and was still clean when our photographer came to do our family holiday photos.  I even had time to finish knitting a hat for Abby.  What was I so worked up about?????

Yelling: The Cause, The Casuality, The Cure  has been sitting on my computer since before our move.  I knew that I needed to read it for The Gabby Moms review group.  Even as I was screaming yesterday, I said to myself, "you need to find time to read that book!".  So this morning I got up a tad bit early and gave myself some time to read (after quiet time, laundry starting and coffee drinking LOL).

That is exactly what I felt like yesterday!  I also find it interesting to note that over the weekend I have put myself in time-out several times.  I needed help!

Lorrie gave it to me.  From starting my day with God, finding my triggers, adequate care of myself and my children, Lorrie encourages me not to give up.  This is a battle that I can - and will - win!  God is with me!!!!!!

I am looking forward to a good day today.  With God's help and Lorrie's encouragement, at the end of the day I will be able to look back with a smile rather than guilt.  If you would also like to end your day guilt-free, be sure to check out www.eternalencouragement.com for this book (available for $12.97) and others to help you along your way to a peaceful home.  You can also see what other moms are saying about this topic and more at www.thegabbymoms.com

***I received this product free (boy did I need it!) in exchange for a fair and honest review as part of the  Gabby Moms review program.***

So Much to Say

Happy Thanksgiving!

As usual, we are celebrating in my husband's hometown of Metropolis, IL (also home to Superman!).  We got here yesterday and are currently being lazy in our hotel room.  Norman's mom is fixing Thanksgiving dinner this evening and I can't wait to hang out with family.  Tomorrow will be the Shinn Family annual reunion and Christmas celebration.  Norman's younger brother from Wisconsin will be there with his family this year and we can't wait to see them.  We have so much to be thankful for this year..............

God always provides!  Beyond our wildest dreams.  I am so thankful for a faithful God, that is always there even when I am trying to give up.....He wouldn't let me.  My God is an awesome God!

Almost 2 weeks ago we moved.  Our new home is beautiful!  The only drawback is that it is in town, along the highway, so we are having to adjust to noisy nights.  I'm sleeping well but poor Norman isn't.  As I said, our new home is beautiful.  It is an older Victorian.  Downstairs there are 2 covered porches, kitchen, laundry room, dining room, living room (with a fireplace!), sitting room (with a window seat!), library (with a window seat!), bathroom and attatched garage (which we are using for storage at this point).  The staircase is ornately carved.....just beautiful!  Upstairs there is another covered porch (or balcony), sunroom (can we say sewing room?????), storage room, 4 bedrooms and another bathroom. 

Our church family was such a blessing.  We moved some boxes on Wed/Thurs/Fri and then they all showed up early Saturday morning and just moved us......I think there was a small bus, 2 mini vans, Norman's small car, 6 trucks, 2 trailers and 15 people.  By 3 Saturday afternoon we were 75% unpacked and settled in for the night.  I started the day so overwhelmed and ended the day so thankful for great friends. 

So, things are going well.  I have some pictures but they aren't on the computer right now.  I promise to post them as soon as I can.  We don't have internet at the new house until the 29th, so after we get back home there will still be a few days on "internet silence".  LOL  I look forward to catching up with everyone soon. 

I hope that everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Smurfs

What do you think?  As you can tell, we dressed as Smurfs for Halloween this year.  Lee was dressed as Gargamel.  I wanted to dress Sadie up as Azreal but nobody wanted to drag her along so we did without. 

The Gargamel outfit is a wizard robe and belt and then Lee is wearing a "bald cap".  His curly hair sticking out around the ears worked out perfectly.  Papa Smurf is wearing red sweatpants and a blue long-sleeved t-shirt.  For all the hats we took felt and cut out 2 triangles, curved the top "point" and then stuffed it appropriately, running a seam in the middle of the hat to keep the stuffing where it was supposed to be and help the hat to flop forward properly.  For Papa Smurf's beard we cut 3 layers of quilt batting in the proper shape and then sewed it to a piece of elastic which we safety pinned to the hat at the ears and then around in the back.  Greg and Bear (lazy and handy Smurf respectively) are wearing white pants (Greg's are sweats, Bear's are long-johns over sweats) and long sleeved blue t-shirts. 

Abby's dress is beautiful.  I think she will wear it to church on Sunday.  I actually put a zipper in something for once.  I used a bottom-weight twill for both dresses.  It works splendidly for Abby's dress but my dress kept sticking to my legs.  So it was bothersome, but in actuality the dress is shorter than I would have chosen because I needed to show off my blue legs.  I got the tights at I Love Colors, a webstore that sells tights in 56 colors (from infant to plus size).  These are great tights.  Nice quality and the colors are true to the pictures.  I was very pleased.  We are also wearing long-sleeved t-shirts.  Norman insisted that I make shoe covers in the appropriate colors for those who weren't wearing appropriately colored shoes.  If Norman is going to do something, he goes all the way.  That is why we are wearing body paint.

I would have been perfectly happy being smurfs with flesh colored skin, but oh no!  Norman bought face paint, so we painted our faces and hands.  It wasn't bad putting it on and I didn't really mind it while it was on, but it took forever to get off (it DID wash out of the white dresses though - amazing!)  Abby thought we were all funny with blue faces until it was her turn to get painted and then she didn't like it so much.  She HATED me scrubbing it off the next morning (yes, she and Bear and Greg all slept in their face paint.  They were tired.  LOL).  I noticed today, almost a week later, that she still has a little spot of blue inside one of her ears. 

A lot of people didn't get that Lee was Gargamel but a few did and we got a lot of positive comments.  Lee is already plotting what we can all be for next year.  I call that a success!