Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve 2009 - presents under the tree, stockings ready, youngest child with 101 fever, and snow in the forecast.

Praying for sickness to go away very quickly and the snow to hold off until after the family get-together on Saturday!

Praying that everyone realizes the real reasons to celebrate Christmas: Jesus came to earth so everyone could have a relationship with God; presents to remember the gifts given by the wisemen (and by God), lights to remember the Light of the World, and the tree to remember the cross. We are blessed.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved." John 3:16-17

Merry Christmas

My last post was quite a while ago. We've been trying to get the harvest done but the weather hasn't cooperated. My husband is on the combine again today trying to get as much done before more possible snow tomorrow.

I've gotten the Christmas shopping done and the house is ready for the large family get-together. Other than wrapping presents, I can relax until Christmas and enjoy the Season!

My 17 y.o. is doing pretty good in school. He is starting a new seizure medicine today. If he does okay on it, we will lower one of his other meds.

4 y.o. is very excited about Christmas to say the least. She keeps asking me if I want to open my presents yet and she wants to know where her presents are.

I worked very hard on the biography this Fall and I received a lot of great research information and photographs.. I won't be able to work on it any more until after New Year's Day.

I pray God's blessings on you this Christmas season as you follow Him.
Matthew 1:20-21 “But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

Rain

While rain is good to be able to get work done on my WIP, it's not good when we're trying to harvest. We've only gotten three days of harvesting done.

I had a birthday last week. My kids sang happy birthday. 4 y.o. wanted to "help" me open my presents - don't think I'm that feeble that I can't open my own presents!

I attended the SCBWI-IA Fall conference this past weekend. Had a great time. I didn't have anything critiqued this time so there's wasn't that type of pressure.

I finished the second version of the first draft of the children's biography. A friend did some research for me in Washington DC at the Library of Congress. Got a couple of good pieces of information. Now, I'm waiting for my mentor to get back to me on the first draft. Today I will work on the next lesson for ICL (Institute of Children's Literature).

More wildlife outside my window this morning. Four tom turkeys. One of them had a pretty long beard.

Four year old practiced writing her letters this morning and now wants to work on a computer-based learning program.

Bookshelf: (What I've been reading) Lighthouses for Kids by Katherine House great book on Lighthouses with activities for kids to do; Stanza by Jill Esbaum 4 y.o. loves this book - great rhyming story; The Adventurous Life of Myles Standish by Cheryl Harness fun way to tell an old story with perhaps some new information; and other National Geographic Books for Kids

1 Peter 4:10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.

Wildlife, Biography for Children, & Harvest

I don't understand Blogger. I have the blog entry formatted the way I want it but when I publish it, Blogger removes my paragraphs and it's all squished together. Then, the next time, there will be too many spaces between paragraphs. Anyone have any advice?

(Second photo) Days before the buzzards (vultures) migrated, they would warm up each morning by spreading their wings while perching on the hay barn or the fence posts. In this picture taken October 4th, there are 8 buzzards in the foreground and 5 turkeys in the background. I think there were a total of 13 buzzards that day, but I couldn't fit them all in one photo.

(First photo) For the past week, there have been 5 does eating (acorns probably) under a tree across the road. One day, three of them crossed over to our side of the road. One brave doe came right up to the basement walk-out. This photo is from this morning. As I write this blog entry, two does just came to eat more acorns.

A couple of weeks ago, I saw a raccoon cross the road. The next thing I know, it was swimming in the pond by our house! I didn't know raccoons liked to swim. The digital camera wasn't in the house so I used my 35mm camera. The film is so old, I'm hoping the pictures come out well when I get it developed.

I've been working diligently on the biography for children. The first draft is close to completion. I keep finding more interesting facts to include and I'm not sure if I can use them all. A friend of mine went to the Library of Congress and researched newspaper articles for me. He found one article from 1919 that I can use and he will be going back to research some more. Yea!

It's been so wet this year - and when it isn't raining, there hasn't been much sun. Hopefully, we can start today.

Proverbs 17:1 Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife.

Proverbs 17:22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

View from a tractor

Here's the view I had this week while working. My sister pointed out that it is a convertible. It was a gorgeous day and it was great that we were able to finish the first cutting of hay. (Normally, at this time of year, we would be working on the 3rd cutting of hay.) We haven't had many periods of three days without a forecast of rain.

Not the prettiest tractor, but it works great for raking hay. It is also forgiving for a novice tractor driver like me!

2 Thessalonians 3:6-10 "In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow. For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." '

Massachusetts August 2009

Make way for ducklings bronze statues in Boston. We bought the book, posed with the ducks and bought the t-shirt!














4 y.o. with the Auntie A














On the tractor with Uncle B















Me and my oldest brother



















My husband on the T-boat from the Boston aquarium to the U.S.S. Constitution.














Us at the Boston aquarium. (I'm posing kind of funny because I was trying to keep the 4 y.o. from falling off the ledge!)


















Eating at Quincy market in Boston.














Oldest brother, niece, Memere, nephews, kids.

We had a great trip to Boston August 12-18th. We went to the graduation party of one of my nephews, visited Boston with one of my sisters, and my husband was able to meet most of my family for the first time. There were several things I wanted to do, but we didn't have time - like visit several friends I haven't seen in years and visit the Calvin Coolidge historical museum in Vermont. Perhaps next year when I go back for one of my nieces weddings!
The day after getting home, 17 y.o. started public school. I've home schooled him for the last three years, but felt it was best at this point for him to go back to public school. New teacher, new curriculum, etc. He is a junior.

We hoped to come home to finish the first cutting of hay. However, between the day before we got home and the day after we got home we had 5.5 inches of rain! We did finally finish the first cutting this week.

I did get some more story ideas while I was in Boston. I also worked on an article since I've been home. I hope to submit it to my instructor (Institute of Children's Literature) today.

This is the verse I am trying to instill in my 17 y.o. so he has a strong work ethic: Colossians 3:23-24 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

Writer's cabin

IMG_4768, originally uploaded by 2009 Writer's Retreat.

Here's the temporary "writer's cabin" that we set up for the retreat! Perhaps if I sell a book or two, I can erect a more permanent structure?!

Writer's Retreat

Last weekend, we had the 1st Annual Oakdale Farm Writer's Retreat! Attendees were from Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri.

Just as half the women arrived, a calf was being born. The women enjoyed watching and seeing the newborn calf. One author, Dori Butler, helped with chores and bottle feeding a calf. Her last two blogs were about the weekend as well (with lots of photos). Go here: http://dorihbutler.livejournal.com/

Several of us wrote in the "portable writer's cabin" (which was a tent!) next to the pond. Two ladies writing under the pear tree (not in the tent) had pears dropped near them by a squirrel. The fish and frogs were jumping a lot. The weather was very cooperative and beautiful.

We wrote a lot, ate some terrific food and award-winning pies, played several loud games, and just had fun getting to know each other better. The women, perhaps, got an appreciation for farming - or at least some some fodder for future writing projects! I got some work done on the biography I'm writing (rewriting).

Farm news: haven't had many periods of three dry days in a row. We should be on the third cutting of hay and we are still on the first! The garden has suffered a little from not being able to get in there and weed, the tomatoes have some blight from all the rain, but overall it's doing pretty well. Will be canning beets, pickles, green beans, corn, salsa, tomato juice, in the next couple of weeks.

Colossians 3:23-24 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

Rain

Rain...a day passes... more rain... another day or two.. more rain. This describes Spring this year. Not good when you can't get a tractor into a field.

We planted about 14 rows of corn in the garden the other day -- in the rain. Last night we had heavy rain and winds.. it blew over the corn in the garden we planted a month or so ago. I planted flowers today... it sprinkled (but it poured 10 miles from our house). I would really like some nice weather so we can finish the crops and get the first cutting of hay done!

Looking forward to having my husband's family reunion this weekend. barbecue, watermelon, homemade ice cream and to top it all off.... a fireworks display.

I haven't been able to work on a scrapbook I wanted to finish by this weekend and I haven't worked on my "WIP" (work-in-progress) lately. Hmm, perhaps next week?!

Psalm 24:1-2 The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters.

Busy as usual

Many days have gone by since I've posted. We have been extremely busy on the farm. Unfortunately, we are not done planting the crops. There's been just enough rain to keep us out of the fields to finish. Even our garden is only half planted.

Most of the cows have calved - but the heifers haven't. Heifers are cows that are having their first calf. Only 5 our of 18 or so have calved and we've lost several of those babies. (They've been too big for the heifers.)

There are so many projects to work on - we are slowly getting some done. It's hard to plan on a farm. Most things are dependant on the weather - and in our case - the cows. We've been busy from 6:30am until after midnight and just falling into bed.

My husband and daughter both had birthdays last week. 3 y.o. is now 4 y.o.

I still have more of a scrapbook to finish for my husband's niece. It was supposed to have been done a month ago, but that didn't happen. Now, I want to have it finished by the end of the month.

I've done a few little writing things for my work-in-progress. Mostly information I can get via email. Haven't actually worked on the manuscript since May. I also have an article that's supposed to be finished this week for the class I'm taking. I'm going to have to ask for an extension on it.

Matthew 11:28-30 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

First writing contract!

Last week, I was at the Colorado Christian Writer's Conference. It was located in Estes Park - right in the Rocky Mountains. This was the view from our room.

I called my husband one night and he told me that I received a contract from Highlights for Children!! This will be my first published piece. Whoooohooooo. I am very excited, to say the least. I don't know the actual publishing date yet.

Other good news that happened there: an agent told me to submit my young adult novel to him when it was finished; an author/speaker is going to get me in contact with a magazine editor for a young adult fiction article I wrote; and another author thinks the biography I wrote will go over well with kids. I had seven appointments with either authors, editors, or agents.

Each evening, 5 elk walked right past us as they grazed. I took their picture and then sat in my car to check my email. I looked up and one of the bull elks had walked right between my car and the next! By the time I got my camera, it was in front of my car.

I didn't get home until 12:30am this morning. I spent the day catching up on the 80+ emails I had, trying to figure out how to interface a new twitter account and my Facebook account, unsuccessfully trying to change my website - in between all that, I drove 2 hours round trip to get a new tractor seat for my husband. It's been a long day.

part of Psalm 23: "He [the Lord] restores my soul..."

Mentorship

Although we weren't able to do any planting this week because of rain, it seems like it was a really busy week. Which is why I haven't posted my great news yet.

Last weekend, I attended a SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators) conference in Iowa. I had applied for a mentorship for a non-fiction book I wrote.

(Drum roll, please.....)

And the winner was ME! Yea. I'm really excited about having the opportunity. For the next year, I will work with a published author. She will help me with the few pieces of research I haven't been able to find, help me with getting the manuscript in the best shape and then help me with my query letter or package to send to an editor or agent. (At least, I think that's what she'll help me with!)

I also found out a couple of weeks ago that a non-fiction magazine article I wrote for Highlights for Children goes to it's final submission approval meeting next week. (I may have previously blogged that, if so, SORRY!)

2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Deer and fish

I was working in the office and looked out the window. This is what I saw next to one of our ponds:















On the pond closer to the house, there are lots of ripples from fish jumping. We had two ducks this morning and then two Canadian geese. The grass is green, the leaves are emerging on the trees and our beets, onions, and spinach are coming up in the garden. Love it, love it, love it.

I am going to the Iowa SCBWI conference on Saturday and Sunday. That is after I help my husband with some planting. He says I might be using a new piece of equipment, a Salford, to cultivate a field. Yikes! Guess I will just embrace change and enjoy a new experience.

I'm working on a scrapbook project that I want to get done soon and I have to print a copy of the nonfiction book I wrote. I'm taking the copy to the conference to work on.

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God." Psalm 42:1

Bunk bed

My 3 y.o. loves dressing up just to play.

My husband made a queen over queen bunk bed out of pine for one of our guestrooms. I helped varnish it. He put it on wheels so we can move it around if needed. It looks great!

It takes up a lot of the room --- but a lot less than when we had three mattresses spread out for my sister-in-law and her family!

We may be able to start planting corn this week. We have almost 30 calves already. However, none of the heifers (first year for calving) have had any calves yet. There are 20 heifers, I think. It will be hard on my husband if the heifers start calving while he is out in the field planting. He normally "helps" a heifer have it's calf - and also ensures it's not having problems with the delivery.

"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1

"He Is"

I can't think of a better post during the Easter season than to describe who God is. There's a song by Aaron Jeoffrey (father/son duo) called "He Is" It's the best description I've found.

Here's a YouTube link to a dramatic version of it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efi4c2UqMDg&feature=related

You can also find a link of Aaron Jeoffrey themselves singing it on YouTube.

Here are the lyrics:

He Is
In Genesis, He's the breath of life
In Exodus, the Passover Lamb
In Leviticus, He's our High Priest
Numbers, The fire by night
Deuteronomy, He's Moses' voice
In Joshua, He is salvation's choice
Judges, law giver
In Ruth, the kinsmen-redeemer
First and second Samuel, our trusted prophet
In Kings and Chronicles, He's sovereign

Ezra, true and faithful scribe
Nehemiah, He's the rebuilder of broken walls and lives
In Esther, He's Mordecai's courage
In Job, the timeless redeemer
In Psalms, He is our morning song

In Proverbs, wisdom's cry
Ecclesiastes, the time and season
In the Song of Solomon, He is the lover's dream

He is, He is, HE IS!

In Isaiah, He's Prince of Peace
Jeremiah, the weeping prophet
In Lamentations, the cry for Israel
Ezekiel, He's the call from sin
In Daniel, the stranger in the fire

In Hosea, He is forever faithful
In Joel, He's the Spirits power
In Amos, the arms that carry us
In Obadiah, He's the Lord our Savior
In Jonah, He's the great missionary

In Micah, the promise of peace
In Nahum, He is our strength and our shield
In Habakkuk and Zephaniah, He's pleading for revival
In Haggai, He restores a lost heritage
In Zechariah, our fountain

In Malachi, He is the son of righteousness rising with healing in His wings

He is, He is, HE IS!

In Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, He is God, Man, Messiah
In the book of Acts, He is fire from heaven
In Romans, He's the grace of God
In Corinthians, the power of love
In Galatians, He is freedom from the curse of sin

Ephesians, our glorious treasure
Philippians, the servants heart
In Colossians, He's the Godhead Trinity
Thessalonians, our coming King
In Timothy, Titus, Philemon He's our mediator and our faithful Pastor

In Hebrews, the everlasting covenant
In James, the one who heals the sick.
In First and Second Peter, he is our Shepherd
In John and in Jude, He is the lover coming for His bride
In the Revelation, He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords

He is, He is, HE IS!

The prince of peace
The Son of man
The Lamb of God
The great I AM

He's the alpha and omega
Our God and our Savior
He is Jesus Christ the Lord
and when time is no more
He is, HE IS!

Calves

Calving season has been going hot and heavy. We had twin calves one day. There were two calves this morning. One day, we had four calves. (Well, the cows had the calves!)

None of the heifers (we consider a heifer a cow that either hasn't had a calf before or who's had only one.) They are in a separate field so husband can put them in a shed and help them get the calf out.

We've had nice green grass for a week or so. Then, this past weekend, we had crazy weather: snow, sleet, rain, ice pellets, etc. Sometimes all at once. It's all but gone now.

I saw four pheasants along the road when I drove 17 y.o. to Kansas City on Friday. Also saw, turkeys, deer, several cranes (the bird type), a muskrat, a yellow bird (oriole?), buzzards, etc. I love spring!

Easter is less than two weeks away! Jesus was the sacrificial lamb who takes away sins once and for ALL (who ask Him to be the Lord and Savior of their lives). Through Him, we have an advocate with the Father.

I listened to several good sermons and talk shows on the way to and from Kansas City. One woman talked of the Bible verse, "if you have the faith of a mustard seed...", and that she had prayed but her 4 y.o. daughter still died of cancer. The host of the show pointed out that the "faith preachers" say that the Bible mandates God do what we pray for. However, (as the host pointed out) - they don't take into consideration Jesus' own experience/words. In the garden of Gethsemane, when Jesus knew in just a short time he would be crucified, he cried out to God, "if it be Your will let this cup pass from me." But, and this is an important exception, Jesus said, "But not my will, by thine be done." In other words, yes, we are to ask and pray for what is in our hearts. However, God's will may be for that person to be in heaven with Him or in other circumstances, for your prayer to be answered differently than you've asked.

Make sure your faith is in God and not in your own faith.

Spring

This past week, husband and I were out separating the cows and heifers to different pastures. We saw lots of robins - they must have been migrating. We also saw the first calf of the year - it was a few days early. Spring has sprung.

My work in progress goes quickly one day (research wise) and at a stand-still other days. It's frustrating when I can't find the information I'm looking for - especially when I have the exact newspaper article title, author and date!

Family and farm are doing fine - just busy with spring and homeschooling. Hence, the less than normal blogging.

The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness faithfulness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:22 from memory - so it might not be word for word.)

Research, research, research

I have been doing a lot of research for the non-fiction children's biography I'm writing. It's a lot of fun, but sometimes I can get pulled on a wild goose chase and end up wasting my time. I've found several really good sources in the last couple of days and they are sending me information that will help.

I've written an outline, introduction and the first three chapters - about 7 chapters to go. This is just the yucky first draft - it will most likely change quite a bit when it's finished.

Husband is making a new computer desk. He's almost done with the construction part of it. He is awesome!

James 3:17-18 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

Writing scholarship

I applied for two different writing scholarships. I found out last week that I was chosen for one of them so far. It is in Estes Park, CO in May. I am really excited to have gotten it.

I submitted a non-fiction article to a children's magazine. Now, I am working on the research to make the same subject into a picture book/biography. I was blessed to be sent a self-published book by the great-nephew of the man I'm writing about. Once I read the book, I researched a different way and found out even more information. I pretty much have an rough outline of what I want to write and I hope to get it done in the next week or so. I am submitting it for a possible year-long mentorship program for a non-fiction children's book. I admire the woman who will be the "mentor". She has done a lot of non-fiction work and is great with research.

Proverbs 16:3-9 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. The LORD works out everything for his own ends— even the wicked for a day of disaster. The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished. Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the LORD a man avoids evil. When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him. Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice. In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.

Snow cherub

Saturday, Feb. 21, we had 3-4 inches of snow. 3 y.o. wanted to make "snow angels". Here are a couple pictures:
















Below is a picture I took through the window and the screen made lines on the pic... but it was really neat the way the wind made a "snow dune".












No verse this time, just an observation: do you know that the Bible never mentions angels having wings? A cherub is spoken of as having wings (plural = cherubim).

Grandma's Birthday

Yes, I'm way behind on posting to my blog! The problem is that for some reason I can't log on to the blog from my laptop - and 17 y.o. uses the computer most of the day for his homeschooling.

My mom's birthday was last week. She insisted she was 87 not 88. I reminded her what year she was born and what year it is now. She wasn't very happy with me, but since I brought lobster casserole and chocolate cake, she forgave me! Here is a photo and a video:

Ephesians 6:1-4 "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise— "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth."Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord."

Better picture

16 y.o. turned 17 y.o. in January and I didn't post any pics. This is a better hair day -- right after a shower. Among other things, he got some game boards from one of his aunts. He loves playing chess or checkers.
His little sister had to get in on the act. They were eating "Grandma Alice's Black Bottom cupcakes" -- hence the black face and teeth.

After her brother having a birthday, 3 y.o. now says, "I'm three but I'm going to be 17 on my birthday."

Colossians 4:2-6 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Farm and Writing

Here's husband, 17 y.o. and 3 y.o. hauling corn from the bin to the barn. It was COOOOOLD. Although the snow is gone here, I think the high was 16 degrees. I like having the four seasons, I just wish winter were shorter :o)

I found out the the magazine I wanted to send a manuscript is closing. The one I originally wanted to send it to, Brio and Beyond, was discontinued by Focus on the Family but has been taken over by someone else (as have Breakaway and Brio). The new magazine will only be online - not in print. I may still send it to them.

I sent another article to Highlights for Children yesterday. The research spread out over the last year. My two critique partners encouraged me to rewrite it for a picture book or easy reader. Highlights for Children buys "all rights" so (if they buy the article) I would have to change it completely for a picture book. I hope to start it tomorrow. Today was taken up with homeschooling and other things.

Writing

I was able to get several writing goals accomplished Monday and Tuesday. I sent off for some magazine samples. I've written an article and am trying to make sure I'm targeting the correct magazine for it. I also finished rewriting a picture book manuscript and sent it to an agent I met this past Fall at a conference in Iowa. Then, I rewrote the ending for a non-fiction magazine article (for kids) and sent it to my ICL (Institute for Children's Literature) instructor.

Other than that, I got most of the craft room organized. I still need to finish cleaning 3 y.o.'s room, so she can actually use her own room!

Yesterday and today, we went to a visitation and a funeral. It was for my husband's great-aunt. She was a sweet woman.

Tonight, I had Bible study. Before hand, I went shopping and got a present for 16 y.o. He will be 17 on Saturday.

Hebrews 13:20-21 May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Hat Hair

The other day when I posted how cold it was, I didn't post this picture. It is 16 y.o. after he came in from the below-freezing cold. (It ended up -14 that day!) He had one of those face covering hats on. Can you say, "Bad hair day?" haha He's probably 6' tall with this hairdo.

We went to St. Louis for him to have an appointment at Children's Hospital. It went well. I haven't gotten the final report yet. It showed that the homeschooling I am doing with him has really benefited in some areas - especially math. Now, I have to decide whether to send him to the public school for his last two years of high school. There are some programs that are not available for kids who are home schooled. Arghh.

Matthew 11:25-26 At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. 26Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure."

Brrrrr rrrr rrrr

Wow, it's -10 degrees (MINUS 10!) today (not including the wind chill). Husband and 16 y.o. are out hauling hay to the cows. Hope they come in soon. They were bundled up to the hilt.

I'm taking 16 y.o. to St. Louis today. Tomorrow, he will have some testing done at the St. Louis Children's Hospital. Hopefully, this will give me some direction on whether to continue homeschooling or have him return to public school - and where he is academically. His seizures seem better lately, but then anything is better than 4000-6000 per day!

Ephesians 3:20-21 "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."

Facebook

Found some family, friends and high school friends on Facebook. Not sure how often I will go on there. Like a lot of things on the Internet, it's fun -- but it can consume too much time.

Husband and 3 y.o. went sledding today. It looked like it was going to snow a lot, but we only ended up getting about 1/2 inch. Oh well, 3 y.o. had a blast - she doesn't mind the cold which is totally unlike me. I can hold a soda and my hands hurt from the cold!

16 y.o. helped to feed the cows/bulls/calves/steer with husband and then they hauled hay. I think the high tomorrow is supposed to be 3 degrees. Brrrrr

I am going to work on a picture book manuscript. I'm trying to get it finished to send off to a publisher that I met at a conference this fall. Her deadline is February - so I want to finish it this week.

Psalm 51:10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Cleaned up

I spent the day cleaning the house.

Stepson helped me move the mattresses in the downstairs spare room. Then, I moved furniture around because that will become my craft room. Last week, husband put up a long shelf for my rubber stamps. (All this is so 3 y.o. can get her room back!)

Tables we had put out for the Christmas party were put away.

I dumped the toy box downstairs and separated out 16 y.o.'s toys he wanted to keep, baby toys to give away, toys that were supposed to be in a different place, and the rest went back into the toy box.

Next, we took the decorations off the tree and the tree was brought outside. Then I vacuumed the house.

Right now, it is snowing out. It's a very fine snow and there's a dusting on the ground. Husband and stepson are going to a men's night out tonight. Not sure if 16 y.o. will go too.

Tomorrow, I will be helping at the local food pantry (unloading boxes for distribution on Monday). There's other things I did today, but that's the gist of it. Tomorrow night, I have the Bible study that was postponed during the holidays.

I've GOT to get some writing done.... but right now, I'm tuckered.

"Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness..." Matthew 6:33

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” - Ephesians 5:1-2