tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82295362350914120312024-01-24T19:42:43.644-05:00Joy in the JourneyFighting hard to "be joyful always" (1 Thessalonians 5:16). Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.comBlogger714125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-17659889523675068742014-12-15T08:24:00.000-05:002014-12-15T08:24:08.208-05:00Advent Book Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<u>Watch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas</u> arrived on December 1st, which was perfect, since the readings begin on December 1st.<br />
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Advent begins on a different date each year, but this book's readings start on December 1st so you can easily pick it up and enjoy reading it each December as you prepare to celebrate Christmas.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The book has many contributing authors such as:</span></b></div>
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C.S. Lewis<br />
Dietrich Bonhoeffer<br />
Henri Nouwen<br />
Madeleine L'Engle<br />
Martin Luther<br />
Philip Yancey<br />
T.S. Eliot</div>
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This book contains enjoyable readings, which encourage the reader to contemplate and help them ponder a little deeper, but they are light on scripture. They are not contradictory to scripture, but light on Scripture. This book is not for everyone since some do prefer Scripture to be the foundation and backbone of their advent readings.<br />
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<b><u>Disclosure Statement:</u></b><br />
I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. </div>
Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-79183491628886135572014-11-15T17:10:00.000-05:002014-11-15T17:10:01.835-05:00Passport2Purity Get-Away<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For my daughter's 12th birthday, I planned a little get-away for just the two of us. We didn't go too far away from home, but I planned things I knew she'd enjoy and make her feel special. While we were away, we went through five sessions of the <a href="http://www.familylife.com/find-help/key-resources/passport2purity#.VGfLJvnF9rs" target="_blank">Passport2Purity curriculum by Family Life. </a></div>
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I<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4EYrlB-MsJMfGwXAm92xzSU8k1LiOdFKrlvPTTpwnpuIKkakafzfj0b02bzHpmMpn1wACgkc6t4Uim1MlkiLydw3R0Pi01-00ckN_k3hFu_RNSeAKDa4TI5BQOr7iiimNY0MkGs14OjF/s640/blogger-image-1005787909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4EYrlB-MsJMfGwXAm92xzSU8k1LiOdFKrlvPTTpwnpuIKkakafzfj0b02bzHpmMpn1wACgkc6t4Uim1MlkiLydw3R0Pi01-00ckN_k3hFu_RNSeAKDa4TI5BQOr7iiimNY0MkGs14OjF/s400/blogger-image-1005787909.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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We left on a Thursday afternoon, but she was all packed and prepared to leave by Wednesday afternoon. She was very excited. </div>
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Before leaving town, we stopped by Starbucks for one of her favorite drinks, and enjoyed some laughs over a few mad libs. </div>
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I knew I had to reserve a hotel with a pool because this girl loves to swim. Plus, she needed to practice all the new things she learned at her recent swim lessons. </div>
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You know how Jesus said we can't live on bread alone? Well, I think this girl could and that's why I took her to Fazoli's for dinner because she loves pasta and bread. </div>
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In between listening to the sessions on CD, we did an art project and we also did our nails. </div>
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On our final morning we ate breakfast at the hotel, finished up our last session together, checked out of the hotel, did some shopping, enjoyed a lunch at a place of her choosing, and then headed back home. </div>
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We were only gone for about 26 hours, but we learned so much, had a lot of fun, and made a lot of wonderful memories. We had some wonderful, tough conversations and she made it through all the sessions like a champ.<br />
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I highly recommend this product to all parents of adolescent children. It was a great guide to help me have some intentional conversations with my child now before it's too late.<br />
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Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-88855883619622685792014-10-03T09:16:00.000-04:002014-10-03T09:21:27.241-04:00Collage Friday: A Week Filled with Writing<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
On Monday afternoon the children went to another swimming lesson, then we stopped by McDonalds to get a small treat, and visited the library. </div>
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Tuesday was co-op day and Kaitlyn got to attend a FREE charcoal pastel art class at our local library. She was a dirty mess when she got home. Ha! </div>
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On Sunday, the girls performed with their Signs Choir during our worship service and on Wednesday they had AWANA club, and Tyler and I had youth group. If you work with children or youth, I recommend visiting <a href="http://funninja.org/" target="_blank">Fun Ninja </a>to find a wide variety of fun games. I use this site almost weekly to come up with new games to use with our group. </div>
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This week, we worked on editing a lot. The children had written mini reports and notebook pages on Eisenhower, JFK, and they chose someone from the Civil Rights Movement to write about. Here is Lauren writing about Rosa Parks. </div>
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Lauren is growing a lot as a writer. She wrote a rough draft on her own and then I work with her as an editing buddy. She was so proud of her <a href="http://homeschoolhelperonline.com/notebooking/biography/rosa_parks.shtml" target="_blank">Rosa Parks notebook page</a> once she was done and I was too! </div>
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Next week in history we will learn about President Johnson and possibly start a unit on the Vietnam War if a book I requested from the library arrives in time.<br />
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The children are becoming stronger in their independent subjects and know what needs to be done each morning so our afternoons are filled with read alouds, activities, errands, chores, and free time.<br />
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I'm linking up again this week with <a href="http://www.homegrownlearners.com/home/2014/10/3/homeschool-moms-sometimes-we-need-to-ask-for-help.html" target="_blank">Homegrown Learner's Collage Friday. </a> Take some time to visit this weekend for some home educating inspiration and encouragement.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-39538153259327944562014-09-26T22:52:00.001-04:002014-09-26T22:52:25.473-04:00Collage Friday: A Week Filled with Extra Fun!This week was filled with extra activities. Due to all our fun, our time at home was shortened, but sometimes we need to change things up a bit in order to break up the monotony of the regular ol' routine.<br />
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On Monday, the children had swimming lessons, which means they are halfway through this session of lessons. We hope to get them in another session very soon, but the thought of doing that in the dead of winter is not very appealing.<br />
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Co-op was crazy this week. A dear friend of mine was in the hospital and so we had to cover her two classes. I taught my speech and P.E. classes, and then I had to also help assist in cooking and art. I really do enjoy our co-op and am so thankful for all the servants in there who do jump in when they're needed to make sure our kids continue to have a fun time of learning and hanging out with friends. We have a great community of friends in this group.<br />
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This collage is kind of random. My husband started a science experiment with the kids to learn more about stalactites and stalagmites, Lauren enjoyed doing her grammar under the dining table with the dog, and she was also super excited when the mail man delivered her LEGO set she ordered with her own money.<br />
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The girls and I had a fun day on Thursday when we got to enjoy <i>Suessical the Musical</i>, lunch at Chick-fil-a, and then a trip to the library. Tyler was going to go with us, but was asked to work so he did that instead. An older couple in our church has needed more help with their yard work this year and hired Tyler to help. He has enjoyed this opportunity to learn more about lawn care and this couple has absolutely spoiled him with lunches out, a local county fair, and a trip to a beautiful garden where he could see some really cool coy ponds.<br />
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Friday School usually includes math, grammar, science review, and then it's family time. My husband is a pastor and our church graciously lets him take off a day during the week since Sunday is a work day for him and for years he has taken Friday off. Once we started homeschooling, we shortened our school day to allow for family time. This week we decided to visit a local apple orchard for a fun family outing. </div>
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I'm linking up again this week with <a href="http://www.homegrownlearners.com/home/2014/9/26/improve-your-homeschool-know-your-childs-love-language.html" target="_blank">Homegrown Learner's Collage Friday.</a> Click over and check it out. It makes for some fun weekend reading.<br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-34432174525654301892014-09-22T11:42:00.000-04:002014-09-22T11:42:51.819-04:00Healthy Living Accountability<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been wanting to add some healthy living posts here for a while now because I need some accountability in this area of my life once again. This is the perfect time because Clare at Peak 313 is hosting her "Living and Active" challenge, which starts next Monday, September 29th. Peak 313 is my favorite site for both spiritual and physical encouragement and accountability. Almost three years ago, I was featured on this site as one of their <a href="http://peak313.com/featured/shed-share-wednesdays-nikki-t/" target="_blank">"Shed & Share" stories.</a> I had a major transition in my life 14 months ago and I now find myself with some of those pounds back on my body. This is real life and many people are like me and struggle when life throws in a big transition. I have truly struggled with consistency in the area of food and exercise since moving from PA to IL. Clare wrote a great post called, <a href="http://peak313.com/featured/permission-to-transition/" target="_blank">"Permission to Transition" </a>and it was another great wake up call to me.<br />
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So, I've had 14 months to transition (I don't recommend taking this long). I am over feeling sorry and angry and I'm ready to step out in obedience to the Lord and take care of my body. Who's with me?<br />
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Would you like to jump into this online community to receive some encouragement and accountability? If so, <a href="http://peak313.com/featured/the-3rd-annual-living-and-active-challenge/" target="_blank">click over and read about the "Living and Active" Challenge. </a>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-39353447906409824092014-09-20T11:47:00.001-04:002014-09-20T11:47:31.538-04:00Learning About the Civil Rights MovementWe study history chronologically and currently we are learning about the civil rights movement. We are listening to the audio version of "Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry" and we watched a movie Disney made a few years back called "Ruby Bridges." I cried off and on throughout this entire movie because I just cannot fathom all that cruelty and hate.<br />
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<b>Here are some other resources we used this week for our civil rights studies.</b><br />
<a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/african-americans-many-rivers-to-cross/video/ruby-bridges-goes-to-school/" target="_blank">Ruby Bridges Video </a><br />
<a href="http://homeschoolhelperonline.com/notebooking/biography/dr_martin_luther_king_jr.shtml" target="_blank">Martin Luther King, Jr. Bio Page</a><br />
<a href="http://homeschoolhelperonline.com/notebooking/biography/rosa_parks.shtml" target="_blank">Rosa Parks Bio Page</a><br />
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We are reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Search-Source-Hyatt-Anderson-Moore/dp/0938978233/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411074186&sr=8-1&keywords=search+for+the+source" target="_blank">"In Search of the Source"</a> now. It is a captivating book about Wycliffe Bible Translators in Papua New Guinea. This is how you'll often find my children during read aloud time. Kaitlyn will be knitting, Tyler will be lying down on the couch, and Lauren will be coloring. </div>
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We had drum, piano, violin, and swimming lessons again this week and our co-op started this week as well. The children enjoy their time out of the house and hanging out with friends.<br />
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I am linking up with <a href="http://www.homegrownlearners.com/home/2014/9/19/a-well-rounded-homeschool-more-than-book-work.html" target="_blank">Collage Friday with Homegrown Learners</a> again this week. If you need some encouragement and inspiration, this is a great place to visit. </div>
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Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-64986042127235845042014-09-16T11:38:00.003-04:002014-09-16T11:41:47.753-04:00Pray For Our Persecuted Brothers and Sisters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Et5cXLbXG8Oyp92W0L6-lEya57S97V9bR8-ObVWiYDw4pQPJCebZAGbErwkoI4w9WCPfgseObAKTiWA8oZgZ2nTJSlLRxM99sB1vbMiv7LRutkfAsACVqisE4_GfEn_7zHqrV04-Wzm1/s1600/banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Et5cXLbXG8Oyp92W0L6-lEya57S97V9bR8-ObVWiYDw4pQPJCebZAGbErwkoI4w9WCPfgseObAKTiWA8oZgZ2nTJSlLRxM99sB1vbMiv7LRutkfAsACVqisE4_GfEn_7zHqrV04-Wzm1/s1600/banner.jpg" /></a></div>
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Living and enjoying the comforts and freedoms in America, it is easy to forget there are many believers around the world harshly persecuted for their Christian faith. <a href="http://beheardproject.com/prayer-vigil/saeed" target="_blank">Pastor Saeed </a>has been imprisoned for almost two years in Iran and as you can see in the graphic below, Iran is one of the top 10 countries for persecution of Christians.<br />
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Our brothers and sisters around the world need our prayers. Hebrews 13:3 tells us to, <span style="font-size: large;">"Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering." </span></div>
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<b>Here are some ways you can pray:</b></div>
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<li>Pray believers will stand firm in their faith</li>
<li>Pray for persecuted believers to draw even closer to the Lord, be strengthened, and continue to courageously share Christ. </li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gospel for Asia has many more requests for <a href="http://www.gfa.org/pray/2013/october-november-persecuted-church/" target="_blank">persecuted believers here.</a> </span></div>
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May we all <b>REMEMBER</b> our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world and faithfully pray for them and for the gospel to spread to all nations. </div>
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-77051679632890500142014-09-12T08:47:00.000-04:002014-09-12T08:47:47.299-04:00The Week We Went to the Swimming Pool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This week I overheard a conversation my youngest daughter had with my husband. She was sharing with him how busy she is. She has school, swimming, AWANA, violin lessons, and Girls in Action (a missions club). Heath and I have had a couple good laughs over a child's version of busy and we are so grateful for all these wonderful and fun activities she has been blessed to participate in. </div>
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On Monday, the children started a 6-week session of swimming lessons at the YMCA. There are only two other children in their class, so they are getting a lot of attention, instruction, and practice. </div>
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In between music lessons, school work, and chores, I found the girls doing a lot of fun things this week. They are still enjoying working with chalk pastels, Kaitlyn is knitting, and they had fun challenging each other in a cup stacking game. </div>
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We have also been busy in the kitchen. Lauren made a pumpkin pie for her dad, but we forgot to put sugar in and we don't recommend doing that. Kaitlyn cooked Shepherd's Pie for dinner one night and it was delicious. The temperatures are dropping, which means enjoying mugs of hot chocolate while doing math lessons. Tyler said this week he feels sorry for all the children at school sitting at their desks and taking pop quizzes while he's at home drinking delicious hot chocolate. </div>
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Menu planning and crock pot cooking are incredibly beneficial during the school year. I like to set my crock pot out the night before so when I wake up I SEE the crock pot and it reminds me to dump the ingredients in and get dinner started. Also, I pull out the recipes I need for the week so I'm not searching for them at 5 o'clock when I want to start dinner. </div>
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We are studying about the Civil Rights Movement in history and after reading about Brown v. Board of Education, we found this <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/african-americans-many-rivers-to-cross/video/ruby-bridges-goes-to-school/" target="_blank">PBS website about Ruby Bridges</a> (one of the first little African American girls to integrate into an all white school) and also Homeschool Helper has some wonderful <a href="http://homeschoolhelperonline.com/notebooking/biography/dr_martin_luther_king_jr.shtml" target="_blank">FREE notebook pages </a>like this one for Dr. Martin Luther King.<br />
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Our co-op starts next week and we are looking forward to it. Tuesdays will be busy days, but filled with friends, fun, and learning.<br />
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How is your school year going? Are you enjoying any fun, enrichment activities? Do you have any tips to share to make getting dinner on the table easier on those busy days?<br />
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I am linking up again with <a href="http://www.homegrownlearners.com/home/2014/9/12/classical-education-making-the-transition-in-our-homeschool.html" target="_blank">Homegrown Learner's Collage Friday.</a> Please click over and check out this fun community who gathers each Friday to share some cute collages and homeschool ideas and encouragement.<br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-80163471766273577532014-09-05T16:03:00.000-04:002014-09-05T16:03:21.515-04:00Sick Kids, School Work, and Youth Group<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This was a week full of sickness, school work, and youth group. My church was gracious enough to give me the opportunity to serve as the director of youth ministry at our church. This means I get to plan games, activities, and weekly Bible studies for teenagers. I had so much fun on our kick-off night, which was Wednesday and judging by the amount of laughter in the room, I think others did as well. My oldest child is in the youth group and his sister will join him next year. Heath (my husband) and I have been involved in youth ministry for most of our 15 years of marriage and it is weird - very weird to be the parent of a youth now. It's a good weird though. </div>
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Heath had the day off on Monday and Kaitlyn was sick, so we were pretty slow and lazy. We played games, looked at old scrapbooks, and just lounged around. </div>
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Wearing vampire teeth makes reading more fun even when you're not reading about vampires, but <i>Ella Enchanted</i>. Lauren listened to the audio version of this book, but decided she also wanted to read it. I guess she likes it. The children are still breezing through their Teaching Textbooks lessons and next week I have got to get them started on some more challenging activities through Khan Academy. We really like Teaching Textbooks, but my kids often complain about the first few weeks being so easy and boring. </div>
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In history this week, the children studied President Eisenhower and each wrote a paper for me. I found<a href="http://www.history.com/topics/us-presidents/dwight-d-eisenhower" target="_blank"> this online resource</a> helpful and the older children enjoyed reading information on their own and the short video was an added bonus too. If notebooking is your thing, you might enjoy this <a href="http://homeschoolhelperonline.com/notebooking/biography/dwight_eisenhower.shtml" target="_blank">FREE Eisenhower notebook page. </a><br />
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My daughter, Kaitlyn, was sick most of the week, but still managed to get all her assignments completed. Today, she was not running a fever and feeling so much better we ran up to the library and got her registered for a babysitting workshop, book club, and an art workshop. Our family LOVES our local library and are so very thankful for all the wonderful programs and resources.<br />
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Next week we start 6 weeks of swimming lessons at our local YMCA, and we are looking forward to adding that to our schedule.<br />
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I am linking up with <a href="http://www.homegrownlearners.com/home/2014/9/5/honest-homeschool-encouragement-when-you-have-a-bad-week.html" target="_blank">Homegrown Learner's Collage Friday</a><span id="goog_1245307342"></span><span id="goog_1245307343"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a> again this week. Be sure and check out this fun link-up for homeschool inspiration and support. This week Mary shares how to find encouragement when you have a bad week. Be sure and check out other bloggers who link up as well.<br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-37981859558770699972014-09-02T09:00:00.002-04:002014-09-02T09:00:56.293-04:00National Missionaries <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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2 out of 5 people have never heard of Jesus' love, which means 2.5 billion people do not have the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ. This is why <a href="http://www.gfa.org/" target="_blank">Gospel for Asia</a> is passionate about training and equipping <a href="http://www.gfa.org/sponsor/" target="_blank">national missionaries</a> to go out, share the good news, and disciple new believers. National missionaries already know the language and customs of their own people. Also, more than three-fourths of Asian countries do not allow western missionaries to enter their country and openly share the gospel.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">With so many people (2.5 billion) lost and headed to Hell, what can we do to make a difference? </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">PRAY</span></b> - As a family, <a href="http://joshuaproject.net/listings" target="_blank">choose a people group</a> to learn about and pray for them.<br />
Do you belong to a Sunday school class, small group, or homeschool co-op? If so, choose a people group together and begin praying for them. Better yet, pull your resources together and <a href="http://www.gfa.org/sponsor/" target="_blank">support a national missionary. </a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">GIVE</span></b> - You can <a href="http://www.gfa.org/sponsor/" target="_blank">support a Gospel for Asia national missionary</a> and help support their work in their home country. These missionaries have gone through three years of intensive training, and they know the language and customs of the people they are ministering to.<br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-64256599615789610912014-08-29T14:48:00.001-04:002014-08-29T14:48:39.289-04:00Our First Week Back to School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On Monday, we started back into our school groove. This year was the easiest transition we have ever experienced and I believe it is largely due to the fact these three kiddos are older, more mature, and have a few years of practicing good habits under their belts (thank you Charlotte Mason). </div>
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I liked the way our 1st day of school pictures turned out<a href="http://nikkit3.blogspot.com/2013/09/another-year-begins.html" target="_blank"> last year</a>, so I did the same thing this year. It is so fun (and a little sad) to look back and see how much they have <a href="http://nikkit3.blogspot.com/2013/09/another-year-begins.html" target="_blank">grown and changed in a year's time. </a></div>
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We are adding more geography to our daily work after reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Core-Teaching-Foundations-Classical-Education-ebook/dp/B003SHDP54/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=undefined&sr=8-1&keywords=the+core" target="_blank">"The Core" by Leigh Bortins</a> and some wonderful <a href="http://www.homegrownlearners.com/home/2014/3/3/map-tracing-tips-and-tricks.html" target="_blank">blog posts over at Homegrown Learners.</a> My children know their U.S. geography very well, so I thought starting out tracing the United States would be a great way to ease them into this new activity. </div>
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Lauren had her<a href="http://www.pianotunesacademy.com/violinlessons.php" target="_blank"> first violin lesson</a> this week and was very excited. She actually described herself as "nervous-cited." Tyler is continuing his drum lessons and even plays in our worship service a couple times each month. Kailtyn is progressing well in her piano lessons as well. </div>
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I am truly a blessed woman. My husband is so much fun to parent with. This week we had a lot of great family time and he is once again teaching science this year. He is using <a href="https://www.brightideaspress.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6_54&products_id=103&zenid=922ce6082324b9125a7539b2acac2a1a" target="_blank">Christian Kids Explore Earth and Space</a> and he has been pleased and impressed with this curriculum as he has been preparing lessons the past few weeks. It is so wonderful having this subject taken off my plate. He is also going to teach a public speaking class at our co-op this fall.<br />
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I am linking this post up with <a href="http://www.homegrownlearners.com/home/2014/8/29/who-let-the-homeschoolers-out.html" target="_blank">Homegrown Learner's Collage Friday</a>. You should check it out. It is always a fun place to visit on the web for encouragement and ideas.<br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-91079804959354111492014-08-29T14:12:00.002-04:002014-08-29T14:12:38.056-04:00Summer ReadingI stumbled upon a summer reading challenge (thanks Facebook) through <a href="http://www.exodusbooks.com/details.aspx?id=56344" target="_blank">Exodus Books</a> and printed off some book lists for my children to choose from. My husband and I challenged the children to read two books from this list and if they did, they would be rewarded.<br />
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Here are the books from the challenge, my children chose to read this summer:<br />
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<b>Tyler</b><br />
<i>Ender's Game</i> by Orson Card<br />
<i>Hitler</i> by Alabert Marrin<br />
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<b>Kaitlyn</b><br />
<i>Little Women</i> and <i>Little Men </i>by Louisa May Alcott<br />
<i>Little Pilgrim's Progress</i> by Helen L. Taylor<br />
<i>A Wrinkle in Time</i> by Madeleine L'Engle<br />
<i>Ella Enchanted</i> by Gail Levine (audio)<br />
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<b>Lauren</b><br />
<i>Elmer the Dragon</i> by Ruth Stiles Gannett<br />
<i>Homer Price</i> by Robert McCloskey<br />
<i>Ella Enchanted</i> by Gail Levine (audio)<br />
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The children also read a few other books of their own choosing (not from the challenge list). Lauren enjoyed reading some of Judy Blume's books for the first time and it was fun watching her discover a new author she likes. She also felt a little ignored by her sister this summer and said, "It's hard to deal with her (Kaitlyn) when she's reading a book she really likes."<br />
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Kaitlyn had two experiences this summer when she said she was sad when the book ended and those books were "Little Women" and "A Wrinkle in Time."<br />
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When Tyler read "Hitler" he was fascinated by what he learned and was constantly narrating to his dad and I what he had read. He thought deeply about the sadness of this man's life and his cruelty and evil.<br />
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My girls also chose to participate in our local library's summer reading program and enjoyed reading and earning some small prizes.<br />
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How about you and your family? Did you enjoy any great books this summer? </div>
Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-68376805732614951942014-08-28T08:23:00.001-04:002014-08-28T08:23:58.323-04:00We Have Now Entered the Teenage Zone<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Tyler got TWO celebrations for his birthday this year, and I guess your 13th is a good one for that. On his actual birthday, our family traveled to meet my husband's family for a few days of lake fun. Tyler's grandpa rented a boat and they spent the morning fishing (which is his favorite outdoor activity). </div>
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When we returned home, Tyler and a couple of his friends went and played laser tag and then came back to the house for pizza and a 2nd birthday cake. I think he would say his 13th birthday was very special and memorable. </div>
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I'm still not recognizing this birthday. He can't possibly be a teenager. Perhaps that's why I'm posting about his 13th birthday 21 days after it happened.<br />
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I love this boy - I mean young man.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-92207713241294746102014-07-24T17:18:00.000-04:002014-07-24T17:18:32.505-04:00Women's Literacy Programs in Asia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our entire family loves to read and I know for certain we have taken for granted the access we have to an education here in our country. This is often not the case for women in Asia, since more than 30% of them do not know how to read. This means they cannot read warning labels or basic contracts and this puts their families at risk. <br />
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Gospel for Asia is trying to help women in Asia through their <a href="http://www.gfa.org/women/literacy/?cm_mmc=GFAReports-_--_--_-" target="_blank">women's literacy programs</a>. They teach women how to read and write using Bible materials. When the women finish the program, they not only know how to read and write, but they have also learned about Christ.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/O07KJ7jdfMw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Please consider giving today to <a href="http://www.gfa.org/women/literacy/?cm_mmc=GFAReports-_--_--_-" target="_blank">help a woman in Asia learn how to read. </a><br />
<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-38079102185877794222014-07-22T14:46:00.001-04:002014-07-22T14:46:36.463-04:00Summer Basketball CampLast week my girls participated in a 5-day basketball camp and had a great time.<br />
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My phone doesn't take the best action shots, but this was such a fun-filled week for my girls, I had to share a little bit about it on the blog. The camp was reasonably priced and they received a t-shirt, water bottle, and basketball. I think our fee more than paid for all the free things plus all the instruction and fun they received. This camp was an <a href="http://www.upward.org/" target="_blank">Upwards </a>basketball camp. Upwards is a wonderful, safe, and recreational way for children to learn or continue to learn basketball skills. </div>
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Have your children enjoyed any sports camps this year? </div>
Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-60512038744098152702014-07-10T12:16:00.000-04:002014-07-10T12:16:06.188-04:00Summer Bucket List<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGqkAQr25ZS_99EmIguyqFHhH39qjyHfwm-ZZ4FQzub078yH-PL-QNKOOYz2liHHzanxaSgZ4i4Y_ECsCMPZ_fmEKQIBjtxdYsmblrk-KOnMakO_uTNs0IzO-Cjo4ZJbqgZ8vgmygpTtU/s640/blogger-image--1463899997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGqkAQr25ZS_99EmIguyqFHhH39qjyHfwm-ZZ4FQzub078yH-PL-QNKOOYz2liHHzanxaSgZ4i4Y_ECsCMPZ_fmEKQIBjtxdYsmblrk-KOnMakO_uTNs0IzO-Cjo4ZJbqgZ8vgmygpTtU/s640/blogger-image--1463899997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxgu6pdXwlMzYpP3uz6f8bTvG9IBQgtjb19C-25ikl4UOAPP3WeonNu0omFDOukVCqUk0m6Rbej0serT6Ld58e5-WxA8-GhXPcezSCSilv7IVtCvLcI_P8aC7NMGBTfBPlHheum5e-HWW/s640/blogger-image-1276556451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxgu6pdXwlMzYpP3uz6f8bTvG9IBQgtjb19C-25ikl4UOAPP3WeonNu0omFDOukVCqUk0m6Rbej0serT6Ld58e5-WxA8-GhXPcezSCSilv7IVtCvLcI_P8aC7NMGBTfBPlHheum5e-HWW/s640/blogger-image-1276556451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4bU2egFMY5v7W4trTIodrXmPtcefuo6Thwk1YE2AEJ9O30Nl5Kipnwm3XybniahN4VsB-U9kUsDog6RfNY8gqSEmT1knfy8EgA81HmjvYuGG6esMxaCDwAtRAm8Sx4GgGXFrkL2U2bpXy/s640/blogger-image--1181386248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDM98T3aeJKL9degfhuDWSSTSPJGAeZYaz5CszEAakjyPB2nj-EEMjs0-9iVlVCchj3ItH2xvFAi5mVRu9vBhM8n6MZDHnqDLnM7-ZBFeF7DiqBgUpTCUT3b62hC7eYHfcN_QkM_UheH8H/s640/blogger-image--1621280539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="371" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDM98T3aeJKL9degfhuDWSSTSPJGAeZYaz5CszEAakjyPB2nj-EEMjs0-9iVlVCchj3ItH2xvFAi5mVRu9vBhM8n6MZDHnqDLnM7-ZBFeF7DiqBgUpTCUT3b62hC7eYHfcN_QkM_UheH8H/s400/blogger-image--1621280539.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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At the beginning of summer, I found this <a href="http://livingrichonless.com/twofreeprintables/" target="_blank">FREE printable</a> and had the children take turns writing things down. Here's some proof that we didn't just make a list of things to do, but we are actually taking action and getting some fun accomplished this summer! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0DuzWPBGbaeYEvp7wRwGqBvHTgCuCpDDcfePj5QLnWCuzNhZ5yuXzYE-9Pl6Nhk-IMVCxpX_Z6aGFVN-8v_BTkKFomW-0AjWTNwqWEgdPmGIZNKqynCpr8tqLu73UH2L6qtCEdfwzLCo8/s640/blogger-image--1710411228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0DuzWPBGbaeYEvp7wRwGqBvHTgCuCpDDcfePj5QLnWCuzNhZ5yuXzYE-9Pl6Nhk-IMVCxpX_Z6aGFVN-8v_BTkKFomW-0AjWTNwqWEgdPmGIZNKqynCpr8tqLu73UH2L6qtCEdfwzLCo8/s640/blogger-image--1710411228.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxgu6pdXwlMzYpP3uz6f8bTvG9IBQgtjb19C-25ikl4UOAPP3WeonNu0omFDOukVCqUk0m6Rbej0serT6Ld58e5-WxA8-GhXPcezSCSilv7IVtCvLcI_P8aC7NMGBTfBPlHheum5e-HWW/s1600/blogger-image-1276556451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxgu6pdXwlMzYpP3uz6f8bTvG9IBQgtjb19C-25ikl4UOAPP3WeonNu0omFDOukVCqUk0m6Rbej0serT6Ld58e5-WxA8-GhXPcezSCSilv7IVtCvLcI_P8aC7NMGBTfBPlHheum5e-HWW/s640/blogger-image-1276556451.jpg" /></a></div>
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We enjoyed going on a picnic and fishing and visiting a local ice cream shop. We are now trying to decide on a nearby zoo to visit before our summer ends. Last summer back in PA, we were busy trying to sell our home, packing boxes, and saying "good-bye" to all our friends. There was not much room for fun activities like this because there was so much work to be done. This summer has been full of fun trips and activities and it's not even over yet!Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-415343480426973112014-07-07T01:00:00.000-04:002014-07-07T01:00:02.654-04:00Millions Need Clean Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gfa.org/" onclick="javascript:_gaq.push(['_trackEvent','outbound-article','http://www.gfa.org']);"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.gfamedia.org/blogforasia/GFA-logo-200x200.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Clean water is something I take for granted. I take a few steps to one of three sinks in my home, turn the faucet on and clean water comes out. Unfortunately, this is not true for millions in Asia. Women walk several miles from their homes to find the nearest water source, which is often stagnant ponds or dirty rivers. As a result, millions of people in Asia are plagued by waterborne illnesses.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicjdtgmVV2sgBg2NQuc-k2mZrw7Qkbtoz267xAyPIfdtjnYYRHHzg491axvQ-sos5f-WY_KQQUQ2_zKlg3L0vb0iqY0mpJ3yG1dMeJsA886_y_xKN1FLdX6TK5DuYY1aKkxG9kneqSaxn_/s1600/3-miles-for-water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicjdtgmVV2sgBg2NQuc-k2mZrw7Qkbtoz267xAyPIfdtjnYYRHHzg491axvQ-sos5f-WY_KQQUQ2_zKlg3L0vb0iqY0mpJ3yG1dMeJsA886_y_xKN1FLdX6TK5DuYY1aKkxG9kneqSaxn_/s1600/3-miles-for-water.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">I would like to tell you about my friend Annette. She was burdened by the plight of the millions in Asia living without clean water and she wanted to do something about it. For her<a href="https://www.mygfa.org/426/?cm_mmc=Facebook-_-WM-_-FacebookLink-_-StoriesMediaEtc" target="_blank"> 42nd birthday, she set a goal</a> to raise $1,000 to help ONE village in Asia receive a Jesus Well. The Lord took Annette home before she could see her goal reached, but since her passing, people have given enough for 20 Jesus Wells in her memory. I miss my encouraging friend and tears sting my eyes as I type this, but I KNOW she is with Jesus and she radiantly glorified Him in the way she loved and served. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">The Lord gives us ONE life to live for Him and His glory. When I think about the MILLIONS in Asia without clean water, it is so easy to think I cannot make a difference, but the example of my friend, Annette reminds me just how mighty my God is and how He can use ONE life if we are willing to surrender. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4B3ZE_T0_SxATi6EcU_J6YE45aCiAgR9XNQurhMnXLKlZrq1p9JReLO1nlVdO_KOtRIN2uJhfXwqQpY2-a5UkH97Li0eqvL49c9JIJDGRgoFpI26Ym34q3cCoVBazV7maTnuIkCRUgDg/s640/blogger-image-6866092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4B3ZE_T0_SxATi6EcU_J6YE45aCiAgR9XNQurhMnXLKlZrq1p9JReLO1nlVdO_KOtRIN2uJhfXwqQpY2-a5UkH97Li0eqvL49c9JIJDGRgoFpI26Ym34q3cCoVBazV7maTnuIkCRUgDg/s640/blogger-image-6866092.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="text-align: left;">Gospel for Asia is praying and believing in the Lord to provide the resources to build </span><a href="http://www.gfa.org/water/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">5,000 Jesus Wells</a><span style="text-align: left;"> in 2014. Would you please consider giving? </span></span></div>
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Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-2549692941909673792014-07-05T11:25:00.000-04:002014-07-05T11:25:06.847-04:00Visiting Missouri FamilyMy family is only about 8 hours away from our new home in IL and I have seen them twice since moving from PA to IL. Our drive time was cut in half after moving and we've enjoyed the more frequent visits. Tyler is holding my great nephew in this picture. We love him so much and miss him terribly. We are thankful his mama posts a lot of pics on Facebook for us to see between our visits.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTAB2s_05c-CwEgwu-V9dAVLIEW2HUJA9-lNZ83GZuv_AJHYyr_dg89iMrjZqO2EHCfz42wzP9FnF3vPRTWAHJqr0HuUFvFFoPqI9ayB1sVOQTzOvQr_PS_wesE_yRFw1fR2ArgTYZI-KV/s640/blogger-image--1999498866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTAB2s_05c-CwEgwu-V9dAVLIEW2HUJA9-lNZ83GZuv_AJHYyr_dg89iMrjZqO2EHCfz42wzP9FnF3vPRTWAHJqr0HuUFvFFoPqI9ayB1sVOQTzOvQr_PS_wesE_yRFw1fR2ArgTYZI-KV/s640/blogger-image--1999498866.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSESjK-h6dss8QGfyPPO23ZD-PakMpbtTCepWdumbMdT0jW-7niPrFKvw4v9q3wRh81w7qs6swuxgmd9MFKYX_Fcg0TJuwqACTtJT618ZDrcdeO0Ngjd-Q3S_bJusYbatTfIQ_hpko4Yf5/s640/blogger-image--1680770274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSESjK-h6dss8QGfyPPO23ZD-PakMpbtTCepWdumbMdT0jW-7niPrFKvw4v9q3wRh81w7qs6swuxgmd9MFKYX_Fcg0TJuwqACTtJT618ZDrcdeO0Ngjd-Q3S_bJusYbatTfIQ_hpko4Yf5/s400/blogger-image--1680770274.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Here's a picture I took of all the cousins. I love them all so much and am thankful my kids have great cousins they truly enjoy hanging out with.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">After leaving southwest Missouri, the kids and I traveled to Columbia to visit more cousins. On Monday night, I enjoyed a night out with my sister-in-law while her husband watched all five of our kids. I completed my degree two years ago, but chose not to drive from PA to MO for the graduation ceremony, so we thought it would be fun to go take a picture by the columns. </span></div>
<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-73809702958983157512014-06-25T20:18:00.001-04:002014-06-25T20:18:51.683-04:00Lowden State Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
We enjoyed visiting a<a href="http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks/r1/lowdensp.htm" target="_blank"> local state park</a> this week and it was beautiful. We hiked to take a look at this local landmark dedicated to all Native Americans, but over time has become known as Blackhawk. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvBXQyHT1GVhuSlJX4_7m06qx13NrR5RBub4sLr7qOiwWwIaLyWhryiKMo01zBtcmauZNoSwwa92WrZesBYF0l-rBtv9oUFZpEkH8OsZhCp_B-CxKX92G4TrKlZnevAP6ZqVTgCf02D3G/s1600/blogger-image-1091174416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvBXQyHT1GVhuSlJX4_7m06qx13NrR5RBub4sLr7qOiwWwIaLyWhryiKMo01zBtcmauZNoSwwa92WrZesBYF0l-rBtv9oUFZpEkH8OsZhCp_B-CxKX92G4TrKlZnevAP6ZqVTgCf02D3G/s640/blogger-image-1091174416.jpg" /></a></div>
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After looking at the gigantic statue, we found these stairs (188 total) that led down to the <a href="http://www.discoveroregonillinois.com/discoveroregon/rock-river/" target="_blank">Rock River,</a> so we decided to go down the stairs to explore. We all survived the journey back up and my leg muscles today still recall these lovely steps. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS27j_0qjRnhO1PM8hS8o7qxgBcfe5yw72gVlNHTBIY5if4_EilLu0L4k7RMKBanX7khLa8CcxAsZ-PW50iuNdJU8pUM8MwMRlk-CDTadb_M-7n612rNrkR1WvCieBURt8_6RN05OJBWJC/s1600/blogger-image-83900705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS27j_0qjRnhO1PM8hS8o7qxgBcfe5yw72gVlNHTBIY5if4_EilLu0L4k7RMKBanX7khLa8CcxAsZ-PW50iuNdJU8pUM8MwMRlk-CDTadb_M-7n612rNrkR1WvCieBURt8_6RN05OJBWJC/s640/blogger-image-83900705.jpg" /></a></div>
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Some PA friends of ours were nearby for a family reunion and we met up and enjoyed the day together. They taught us a game called <a href="http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=41329586&cp=4406646.4413993.12922070" target="_blank">Bocce ball </a>and we all decided this is a game we want to own. Our new home state has a lot of <a href="http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/recreation/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">state parks</a> and now we are excited and looking forward to visiting many more. </div>
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Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-62323507035563500652014-06-20T12:35:00.003-04:002014-06-20T12:36:46.548-04:00Bringing Hope to a Child in India<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.blogforasia.org/"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.gfamedia.org/blogforasia/blogger-gospel-for-asia.jpg" /></a></div>
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A couple years ago, a <a href="http://www.gfa.org/church/" target="_blank">Gospel for Asia speaker </a>visited our church and our family learned more about their <a href="http://www.gfa.org/sponsorachild/the-dalits/" target="_blank">Bridge of Hope</a> program. Through this program, children learn about Jesus, are given a quality education, medical care, and a daily meal. Without the Bridge of Hope Center, these children would not receive these basic things our family takes for granted. </div>
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<a href="http://www.gfa.org/sponsorachild/?motiv=WB29-BF00&cm_mmc=GFA-_-BlogforAsia.org-_-Various-_-Various" onclick="javascript:_gaq.push(['_trackEvent','outbound-article','http://www.gfa.org']);"><img border="0" src="http://www.gfamedia.org/blogforasia/sponsor-185x185.jpg" /></a></div>
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At the end of our worship service that day, our family went forward to choose a child to sponsor. We sponsor a 13-year-old young man named Brajmohan. We enjoy writing back and forth with him, and it is always exciting to find a letter in the mailbox from him. We pray for Brajmohan to live his life for Christ, to be a light in his community, for his health and safety, and for him to stay in the program so he can receive a good education. We are always impressed with his writing and are confident Gospel for Asia is providing a great spiritual and academic education. </div>
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After reading "No Longer a Slumdog" and hearing the Gospel for Asia speaker, we believed without a doubt this was something our family needed and wanted to do. </div>
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<a href="http://www.gfa.org/book/?motiv=WB29-BF00&cm_mmc=GFA-_-BlogforAsia.org-_-Various-_-Various" onclick="javascript:_gaq.push(['_trackEvent','outbound-article','http://www.gfa.org']);"><img border="0" src="http://www.gfamedia.org/blogforasia/no-longer-a-slumdog.jpg" /></a></div>
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My husband is a pastor. I am a homemaker and homeschooling mother. We live on one income. I might complain from time to time about how little we have compared to others, but I realized after traveling overseas on international mission trips, after learning more about the plight of the <a href="http://www.gfa.org/dalit/about-the-dalits/" target="_blank">Dalit </a>people in India, that I am indeed very, very rich. </div>
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To <a href="http://www.gfa.org/sponsorachild/" target="_blank">sponsor a Bridge of Hope Child</a> costs $35/month and our family is confident that $35/month is going to make an <b>ETERNAL</b> difference in the life of a child in India. I'd rather spend $35 to make an eternal impact on someone's life than take my family out to eat. </div>
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Would you please consider praying for the Kingdom Work Gospel for Asia is doing? Take a few minutes to visit the links provided in this post to learn more, and prayerfully consider <a href="http://www.gfa.org/sponsorachild/" target="_blank">sponsoring a child today. </a></div>
Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-33587869273902246092014-05-30T12:28:00.003-04:002014-05-30T12:28:48.950-04:00Our Year in ReviewI struggled this school year and I think it was largely due to the fact that we moved from PA to IL on July 29th, 2013. In the midst of educating my children, I was also dealing with setting up and making our new house a home, learning a new area, building relationships, diving into a new place of ministry, and handling the fact that my kids are not little anymore. When I went to college, I chose early childhood education as my major because I like teaching younger children and I found myself teaching 3rd, 5th, and 6th grades this year. Putting this year in review post together has helped me step back and see the large picture. We did have a full and wonderful year of learning and enjoyed some wonderful enrichment experiences as well. <br />
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<b>Field Trips:</b><br />
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<li><a href="http://nikkit3.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-day-in-chicago.html" target="_blank">Shedd Aquarium</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.cantigny.org/museums" target="_blank">Cantigny War Museum</a></li>
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<b>Fine Arts:</b><br />
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<li>Piano and drum lessons</li>
<li>Signs Choir</li>
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<b><a href="http://nikkit3.blogspot.com/2014/01/weve-joined-co-op.html" target="_blank">Co-op Classes:</a></b><br />
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<li>Spanish</li>
<li>Sewing</li>
<li>LEGO Club</li>
<li>Handy Skills</li>
<li>P.E. </li>
<li>Art</li>
</ul>
<b>History Timeline Covered:</b><br />
1883-1953<br />
Topics such as the railroad adopting standard time, the World's Fair in Chicago, Theodore Roosevelt, the Rough Riders, the Panama Canal, The Wright Brothers, WWI, The Great Depression, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt, WWII, The Cold War, and the Korean War were covered this year.<br />
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<b>Books We Read (silently or aloud to coincide with our history lessons): </b><br />
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<li><i>The Great Wheel</i> by Robert Lawson</li>
<li><i>The Wright Brothers</i> by Quentin Reynolds</li>
<li><i>Hero Over Here</i> by Kathleen V. Kudlinski</li>
<li><i>Little Britches</i> by Ralph Moody</li>
<li><i>All of a Kind Family</i> by Sydney Taylor</li>
<li><i>In the Year of the Bear and Jackie Robinson</i> by Bette Bao Lord</li>
<li><i>A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt </i>by C. Coco De Young</li>
<li><i>Cheaper by the Dozen </i>by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth</li>
<li><i>Snow Treasure</i> by Andre LaBlanc</li>
<li><i>Number the Stars</i> by Lois Lowry</li>
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All three children also keep a reading log of all the books they choose to read on their own time and they are expanding their reading in various areas. Library day is still a highlight of our homeschool days.<br />
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<b>Science Lessons Covered:</b><br />
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<li>Plant Science</li>
<li>DNA and Punnet squares</li>
<li>Anatomy</li>
<li>Tyler set up an entire fish tank on his own and wrote an extensive paper on how to properly set up and care for a fresh water aquarium. </li>
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<b>Language Arts:</b><br />
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<li>Writing across most subject areas, weekly spelling tests, and Easy Grammar Lessons</li>
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<b><a href="http://christianlifemissions.com/ministries-listed-alphabetically/82-bruceolssonamazon" target="_blank">Missions:</a></b><br />
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<li><i>Bruchko</i> by Bruce Olson</li>
<li>The children loved this book and it made an impact on their lives. My girls are also participating in a missions program held at our church. They are not just learning about missions, but also praying for missionaries, and helping to support missionaries. </li>
<li>Our family has helped with services at a nearby retirement village twice this year.</li>
<li>My girls made rainbow loom bracelets for a friend to take with her to Cambodia. </li>
<li>This weekend our family will be joining our church to serve dinner at a local rescue mission. </li>
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<b>Math:</b></div>
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I used Teaching Textbooks for the older two children and my youngest used materials from Christian Light Publications.<br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-73741692216353998602014-04-05T14:52:00.001-04:002014-04-05T14:52:17.347-04:00Finishing the School Year Strong!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This weekend, my 3rd grade daughter overheard a conversation I was having with my husband about some concerns I am having with some of her school work. I was frustrated and feeling like a failure as a mother and a teacher. Later that evening she came to me and told me I had hurt her feelings because I do not think she's doing a good job with her school work. I apologized and asked her to forgive me for hurting her feelings, but I also talked to her openly about some of my concerns.<br />
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This little girl of mine is doing well in some areas, but I am convinced if she would slow down, focus, and pay attention she could be doing much better.<br />
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Instead of focusing on what my child cannot do, I'm choosing to focus on what she can do. I'm going to praise and encourage her, build her up, not tear her down. We're going to work together and keep practicing on the things that are challenging her. We are going to work on habits like focus and attentiveness to help her do her very best.<br />
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I want her to hear positive and encouraging words from my mouth. I want her to know I love her unconditionally and I believe she is capable of tackling her school work and making progress in all subject areas.<br />
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I believe if I do these things, with God's help, I will see my daughter improve. There's some hard work ahead of us as we wrap up this school year, and I am making plans for some summertime learning as well. I want my daughter to understand it is good to be challenged and then to get motivated to buckle down, focus, work hard, and finish strong.<br />
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Are you struggling at the end of this school year? What are some things you need to do to help your child(ren) finish strong?<br />
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Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-77511702699689318702014-04-02T13:38:00.000-04:002014-04-02T13:40:02.925-04:00Lauren's Fashion Birthday Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My baby turned 9 on Sunday, March 30th. We had a fashion-themed birthday party for her on Saturday, the 29th. We sent out simple invitations I created over at P<a href="http://www.picmonkey.com/" target="_blank">icMonkey</a> using their "design" feature. We found adorable plates, cups and napkins at the Dollar Tree, and I was completely surprised at the wide selection my local store had.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qTiyFAkLh3QH5gK51ukENCiJvcP1qbqVkCg8SfoGsSAnSCar_f2pr2zWqlIp4mQ3aqjnftYPM2PaP8t2cFp3wLWHglipNSE0LXqd9-B0fyVCP8muMY5fo60fkMS_zQCCnufGHlwgBUSl/s1600/DSCN1185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qTiyFAkLh3QH5gK51ukENCiJvcP1qbqVkCg8SfoGsSAnSCar_f2pr2zWqlIp4mQ3aqjnftYPM2PaP8t2cFp3wLWHglipNSE0LXqd9-B0fyVCP8muMY5fo60fkMS_zQCCnufGHlwgBUSl/s1600/DSCN1185.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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We set up a photo booth and used all the same props we used at our <a href="http://nikkit3.blogspot.com/2014/02/valentine-and-birthday-parties.html" target="_blank">homeschool co-op's valentine party.</a> Here's a sweet pic of the birthday girl and her dad.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzb9mluyzRuoTIooPM6Asw8X7qZecFgy_TD5pQgPQCkdW37CbfAIQOB08Ox1suoiL1R5VvDX2l0QuWE7G9PvNMtesJzHC3LjLY4gw9mDsuvb6c8bA2kFqh6LNKRH3QkjubF6P_GFDs3kQ/s1600/DSCN1218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzb9mluyzRuoTIooPM6Asw8X7qZecFgy_TD5pQgPQCkdW37CbfAIQOB08Ox1suoiL1R5VvDX2l0QuWE7G9PvNMtesJzHC3LjLY4gw9mDsuvb6c8bA2kFqh6LNKRH3QkjubF6P_GFDs3kQ/s1600/DSCN1218.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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We took pictures of the girls as a group and then gave them an opportunity to pair up any way they chose or individually. While I got the girls started on their craft, my sister-in-law used my laptop to send the pictures to be developed at a nearby CVS so they could be picked up before the end of the party. So when each girl went home they took their decoupaged frame and 2-3 photos home with them as a party favor. We purchased wooden frames at Michaels for $1 each and a pack of animal print scrap booking paper and let the girls use mod podge to decoupage their frames with foam paint brushes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTK0fq2fxcg0uskJ4l9zapc1YL_lWTmUDmH9adnd6Y1wzwwysLC1aJS3_K7PLKYY-SerLqmrcU6-eCTaR4IYjTpv0eurf0TPntrIXiQ-PYgF4D_D83SpLmFw2297AwOkrkhJyW7DWebWHa/s1600/DSCN1225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTK0fq2fxcg0uskJ4l9zapc1YL_lWTmUDmH9adnd6Y1wzwwysLC1aJS3_K7PLKYY-SerLqmrcU6-eCTaR4IYjTpv0eurf0TPntrIXiQ-PYgF4D_D83SpLmFw2297AwOkrkhJyW7DWebWHa/s1600/DSCN1225.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Once the frames were done, I divided the girls up into two teams and chose a model for each team. Each team was given tape, tissue and toilet paper and asked to design and create a dress and put it on their model. Once the girls were done, their model walked the "runway" and was judged for best design. Both teams were incredibly creative and all the girls seemed to really enjoy this activity.<br />
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The two models wearing their beautiful fashions. </div>
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Lauren asked for plain glazed donuts instead of birthday cake again this year. So, we stacked them up on a pretty cake plate, stuck in some candles and she was pretty stinkin' happy. The refreshments were very simple. We had a bowl of M&M candies, donuts, pretzels and punch.<br />
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Since our parsonage is quite small, we were very blessed to be able to reserve and use an area of our church called "Children's World" for the party. It worked perfectly for all we wanted to do.<br />
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2014 is the year of friend birthday parties (we do them every other year) and I would say we got off to a fun start with Lauren's party. Tyler's birthday is in August and Kaitlyn's birthday is in November. So I have some time to recoup and plan the parties they want to have.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-59181920667510208452014-02-21T09:31:00.002-05:002014-02-21T09:34:49.012-05:00My Tuesday Morning with JesusWe spent the weekend out of town for a niece's birthday party, came home Saturday night to no water because the water pipes leading to our home froze. I spent Sunday at home instead of going to church so I could wait on a call from the water district to come fix the situation. Monday was a holiday, so my husband got to stay home and we decided to not do any school so we could have a family day and catch up on laundry and things around the house. So, when Tuesday morning came I felt behind. Very, very behind.<br />
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Tuesday is our co-op day and I have certain goals I want to reach before we head over to church around 10:45 a.m. This Tuesday morning was quite simply chaotic and stressful. I had to discipline a child, I couldn't find a school book, I needed to finish packing lunches for the day, and my sink was full of dirty dishes. The missing school book was what caused me to fall apart. I began speaking out loud for both of my girls to hear things like...<br />
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"If I could get the house organized better. I wouldn't lose school books. I am a terrible homemaker."<br />
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"If I would have gotten up earlier this morning I'd have these dishes done and the lunches packed. I am a terrible homemaker."<br />
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"If I had more self-control and patience, I wouldn't get angry so quickly at my children. I am a terrible mother."<br />
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I probably spewed off 2-3 more negative labels about myself in the course of this meltdown, but I stopped when I saw Lauren and the tears streaming down her face. I sat down in a chair, reached out my arms, and she came and sat on my lap. My negative self- talk, my self-focused pity party had hurt my daughter's heart. She said, "Mommy, you are a good mommy and you take good care of us. I don't like it when you talk like that." My heart broke for so many reasons at that moment. Instead of crying out to God to calm me and strengthen me, I chose to explode in a self-focused tirade and it did not help me and it hurt my daughter's heart in the process.<br />
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We went to co-op and the 2nd period I have free. I sat in a classroom all alone and ate my lunch, pulled out my Kindle to read the 3rd chapter of<a href="http://www.ungluedbook.com/" target="_blank"> Lysa TerKeursts' book, "Unglued."</a> Some ladies at my church are reading this book right now and meeting to discuss a few chapters at a time. The 3rd chapter of the book literally brought me to tears because it basically described my morning and how us women tend to speak to ourselves in a way we would never dare to speak to someone else. We beat ourselves up and let our messes define us and how that enslaves us and makes us "prisoners" as the chapter is appropriately titled.<br />
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My mind is constantly in a battle. Focused on the Lord one moment and focused on myself the next. Letting God reign one moment and the in the next moment self rears its ugly head again.<br />
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Do I need to work on some organization projects in my home? Absolutely! But does that make me a failure in life? Nope.<br />
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Do I need to sometimes get up earlier in the morning? Yes. But that does not make me a failure on those days.<br />
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Do I need more self-control and patience? Oh yes. But thank the Lord His mercies are new everyday and He is faithful to prune me so I can grow the fruit of patience and self-control in my life. Not in my own power, but in His power (Lamentations 3:22-23 and Galatians 5:22-23).<br />
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So, I am going to break free from these labels I put on myself and exchange them for the labels Christ has given me. I am His child, He has a plan for me, He is the author and finisher of my faith, and He has given me everything I need to live a godly life for His glory. Grace, grace, grace, how thankful I am for grace.<br />
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I am thankful for my Tuesday morning with Jesus -- mess and all. I am thankful He met me in my mess, cleaned me up, put me back on my feet so I can walk away from my sin and forward with him. I'm thankful for TerKeursts' reminder in the first chapter of her book that "There is a beautiful reality called imperfect progress ... progress wrapped in grace ... imperfect progress."<br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229536235091412031.post-86881334435744965762014-02-19T05:00:00.000-05:002014-02-19T05:00:01.577-05:00AWANA Silver and Golds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Kaitlyn has finished her <a href="http://awana.org/" target="_blank">AWANA</a> book and has begun working on her silver and golds (reviews and fun interactive activities). One of the things she chose to do for a gold section, was to make a recipe from Bible times. She chose to make unleavened bread and then she took it to her class to share with them. We also <a href="http://www.gotquestions.org/unleavened-bread.html" target="_blank">looked at information about unleavened bread in the Bible. </a><br />
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Do your children participate in AWANA or any sort of Bible memory verse program or challenge?Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12973935666122146258noreply@blogger.com2