Simple Woman's Daybook - August edition

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Oh wow!!  I haven't done one of these Simple Women's Daybooks in a long time... 

Thanks for reading along!!

For Today... the tenth day of August, year two thousand fifteen!  This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24, KJV)


Outside my window... beautiful morning sunshine.  Cooler temperatures, this morning! I hear it is to turn into a rather rainy day - later on.  And its noisy!! With the heavy stream of cars & trucks heading up and down the road - as folks are heading off to work.


I am thinking... I love it that my kiddos are still sound asleep - as I type.  We've had an enjoyable evening, yesterday, as guests - using a pool and having dinner on the grill. They played hard...and had a blast.  Let em sleep!!


I am thankful... my hubby has a pretty good job and one that he thoroughly enjoys  - although very stressful at times. Especially, this week!!


I am wearing... a black t-shirt and a silky polka dot knee-length skirt.  Perfect for a summer day!!


I am creating... a dear friend (old co-worker) of mine asked me if I would hand-quilt a baby quilt for her.  Right now, I'm still in the marking process.. actually, I have started the quilting on some of the straight areas.  I love this!! I'm so glad she asked me if I knew of anyone who would want to do this sort of thing.  She couldn't get it past me.  I swiped it up. :)


I am going... to be helping out some dear friends of mine today - while watching their three kiddos'... so that they can continue and wrap packing - as they plan to move out of state - early on Tuesday AM!


I am wondering... how the day will unfold. Naturally.


I am reading... Well.  Currently... as it's the story of my life... I'm reading two to three books at a time. And - all of these, at best, are being read sporadically.  The one I've been most consistent in is: Love Walked Among Us by Paul E. Miller.


I am hoping... to really enjoy my day today!!  I just got word that another friend and her four little ones will be joining us for the day.


I am learning...  as you can see or have been reading... I started this post way earlier in the morning... and that sometimes it just needs to stop - take time to live life... and then catch back up later.   To go more readily with the flow.. I guess, is what you could say - I'm learning!!


In my garden... are mostly flowers.  But, a few green beans to pick and enjoy eating on the run- (the kids love them) and a few herbs, as well.  Lots of bouquets are made and shared...
Since we don't have a vegetable garden here... I do get some things handed my way.  The usual fare of zucchini, lettuce, kale, cucumbers and tomatoes...

In my kitchen...I'm getting very creative with zucchini.  Preparing it different ways. I'm sure everyone is... because of zucchini being such a bumper crop, this year. One of the ways I plan to use some this evening is to throw a handful of shredded zucc. into a tasty batch of sloppy joe mixture.. a.k.a. Beef BBQ.


A favorite quote for today...
Children in a family are like flowers in a bouquet... There's always one determined to face in an opposite direction from the way the arranger desires. ~Marcelene Cox 

How true is this?

A peek into one of my days...
all we see, everywhere we look are the Queen Anne's Lace... and we shall never, ever tire of it.  One of my most favorite of flowers.

"I'm hiding them from you, mom!"

One of my favorite things... is doing a flower photo shoot!!  You don't tire of those, do you? I sure don't.  I'll post them all tomorrow. :)  That said... another one of my favorite things is to go outdoors, first thing, early morning and capture the day in a photo...or to simply sit and listen - to the world waking up.  And, all of this is before my own little clan wakes up - of course. There is always something very special in that moment... one that I cherish deeply.

Fresh morning air!!

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**Linked today with the Simple Woman's Daybook and blog!

A Daybook in November

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FOR TODAY ~ the fourth Monday of November

Outside my window... its warm and rainy! The skies are full of clouds.  Yet!!  They're calling for snow later this week...

I am thinking...I haven't completed a "daybook" in a long while.  It's nice to get back into this little meme with Peggy from The Simple Woman's Blog

I am thankful... for family and friends.  That sense of community - so strong!  My husband and I were able to pull away yesterday afternoon to run some errands; do a little Christmas shopping while leaving our kids with my brother and his girlfriend.  It's nice knowing that they're safe and having FUN!

In the kitchen... coffee it is!  It's early morning, as I type... soon, the clanking of cereal bowls and clashing of spoons will be heard as each one rises.  I think the kids are still "worn out" from playing so hard yesterday...

As well.  The start of food prep for this here week of Thanksgiving and all it's gatherings, etc. 

I am wearing... (ahem!) still in my PJ's.  Remember it's still early AM.

I am creating... a card/mailing list.  No Christmas photos this year.  Just Christmas cards.  Something so nice that in recent years I've noticed how the traditional card is lost and gone by the wayside.  I've done it too.  Guilty!  But... there is something to be said for staying in touch - one way or another...

This year!  Let it be via the simple handwritten card. :)

I am going... to a couple of Parent Teacher Conferences, this week.  One for our son, Caleb, in second grade and our daughter, Aubrey, in Kindergarten.

I am wondering...just really, how this week is going to go.  The children are home from school... all week, due to those meetings and of course for the Thanksgiving Holiday!  A change for all - from routine and such.

I am reading... lots and lots of children's books here of late.  Each book we read counts for our Kindergartener's (Aubrey) reading list - to reach her 100 Books read - by a certain date.  We may have to take a run to the Library one day this week... and change out our stack of books. :)  The ones we have are due to return anyway, this week.  

I am hoping...to... finish up a few sewing projects yet this week.  Here's why...

I am looking forward to... attending a Ladies Tea, with our church, on December 6th!  And, once again, I plan to set up a table for Bags by Bevy...a sale table of various items from my etsy shop. Which, speaking of, my etsy has been getting stocked up more and more.  It's been lots of fun...getting items in place.  

I am learning...I have a lot of ambition but not always the umph to go with it.  Sometimes my priorities get a little askew.  ((gulp!!))

Around the house... the list is long of things that have to get done; should get done; want to get done.

One of my favorite things... spending a good bit of time with my hubby, yesterday - just he and I.

A few plans for the rest of the week: It's Thanksgiving Week.  Food Prep for a couple of Thanksgiving Dinners,  both Saturday and Sunday.  Company coming from TN - to spend the day with us on Friday!!  There will be some shopping, sewing and visiting... Can't wait!!

A favorite quote for today..."You get what you get and you don't get upset".  ~ Aubrey (probably learned from Kindergarten)

But - hearing her repeat that often to her siblings and yet, so quickly forgetting that bit of advice covered suggestion herself... (sigh!)  Don't we all?

I am pondering... something heard in our Sunday sermon yesterday!  In regards to living a life and speaking words of thankfulness or gratitude.  Spiritually speaking... I'm wondering if my breath stinks! Do I have bad breath?  Or, is my life exuding the sweet smell of gratitude to my Saviour? ((Colossians was the book of reference for the Sermon, yesterday!)

A peek into my day...

These were from last evening; lots of Legos.  You should have seen the floor. 

 

**Photos taken by my six year old, daughter.

One prayer request:

Would you so kindly pray for our youngest daughter, Jayne. She woke up feeling kinda yucky again this morning.  It appears to be another head cold.  We really don't want to go through another round of sickness - at least, this week!

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Following along today, with Peggy @ The Simple Woman's Blog.

Thank you!  Until next time...

A Daybook in September

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FOR TODAY ~ the third Monday of September, 2014!

Outside my window... the most beautiful of weather.  Sunshine and cool breezes..

I am thinking... this line of laundry will dry in no time, in weather like we're having today!

I am thankful... for answered prayer.  I've had several prayers answered- just already this morning!! One being..the children woke up HAPPY and on their own and I hadn't even tried to get that ball rolling.  They surprised me!!  I'm very thankful...

In the kitchen... around the breakfast table this morning ...we even got to singing a few happy and joy-filled songs and sharing a verse from Nehemiah 8:10  - The JOY of the Lord, is {my} strength....

I am wearing... a cute little, dark blue cotton floral skirt with a ruffle around the edge.  Makes me feel extra somewhat pretty this morning... and a tee-shirt that doesn't really go with it... but I'm clothed. :)

I am creating... another bag for the etsy shop.  Just because!  It's a fall-looking one, in it's coloring ...

I am going... to Parent's Night - with my son and husband's Cub Scout meeting tonight!

I am wondering... how roped in - as a Mom! - am I going to get... with Scouts.

I am reading... nothing new!!  Although, the Book of James... will soon be a big focus.

I am was hoping... that my husband would be "graduated" from his schooling by this past weekend... but, not quite yet.  ((sigh!))  He just honestly did not have time to devote to the last few remaining hours it would take to wrap that up!

I am looking forward to... when that day finally comes!!  This GRADUATION Day!!  Three years (plus) of school has been a really long time..

I am learning... that I may or may not be a patient person.  It probably depends on the situation...

Around the house... as the morning has progressed, I've been closing up some of the windows and turning off ceiling fans.  How our house sits, we get such a tremendous cross-breeze and well.... needless to say, it's quite chilly!!  Beautiful, though.

I am pondering... I'm just thoroughly enjoying this quick change into the Autumn Season... One of my favorite times of year.  Particularly, in  the way the sun rises and sets....and filters its way across the room.

A favorite quote for today... a verse comes to mind.  Psalm 113:3 ~  From the rising of the sun to its setting... the name of the Lord is to be praised.

Here.  In this home.  His NAME will be praised!!

One of my favorite things... when my kids mistakenly call their sneakers...their stinkers!!  Cracks me up ... and how right they are!!  (it just happened right now ... and so it reminded me!)

A few plans for the rest of the week: Ladies Bible Study has started up.  We'll be meeting on Wednesday, and studying the book of James.
A Memorial Service, on Thursday, for a gentleman - who had attended our church.  He had suffered with Parkinson's Disease for over 20 years...his kids don't "know" their father without this disease...

A peek into my day...
One of those early morning moments of capturing the beauty of the way the light falls across the room..

Made up another two loaves of this, this past week... it was what's for breakfast, this morning!  Along with some leftover baked oatmeal...

Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked Pumpkin Bread...

***

Linking up with Peggy at The Simple Woman Blog  and JES at The Art of Home-Making - Monday!

A Daybook in August

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FOR TODAY ~ The third Monday of August.

Outside my window... the longest line ever of kids clothes, drying in the sun!  I promise! With sheets and towels to follow.  As well, the meadow is full of sparkles as the dew drops have hit it pretty good this morning!  I also hear Mr. A. - our farmer-landlord - calling for his cows to come on in out of pasture.   It's all beautiful.

I am thinking... how blessed we are. We sure have had beautiful weather all summer long.  Speaking of Summer.  I'm thinking of...just how fast the Summer has gone by!  Amazed that school is right around the corner.  I'm thinking I'm a little bit excited about that - for the kids.  They're ready!!

I am thankful... for a place to plant some garden - after all - this year! and for the yield the garden is producing. More than we need, for sure!  It sure is loads of fun to share... and share I HAVE!

More of Aubrey's photo taking!!

In the kitchen... are, 7 more quart jars of canned green beans and about 5 more pints of relish!  Still on the counter waiting to get put away from last week.  They're put away!!  Nice and neat on the canning shelves. The week before - I had done about the same or more of each - plus Bread & Butter pickles.
BTW:  the beets are still in the ground.  My mom persuaded me to let them get just a tad bigger.  I'll most likely get to them this week... sorta planning on doing them tomorrow!

You know it is the thick of summer when meals consist of fresh sweet corn, cucumber appetizers (post forthcoming!) and sliced tomatoes (for BLT's) with chunks of watermelon for dessert.  :)  What gets better than that?

I am wearing... a pink and yellow striped tee shirt with a long blue jean skirt...

I am creating... quite the schedule for this week.  Jamming it all in before school starts - on the 25th!

I am going... to have drive Aubrey to her Kindergarten, this year, and then she'll get to ride the bus home - with her older brother.  Here is where I might be going today!  I've been collecting quite the van-load of items to be hauled off to the local thrift store!!  Good feeling...as always.

I am wondering... I got some loose-leaf tea the other day - upon recommendation from a friend.  It's called Herban Lyme Away, purchased HERE! (It's what is in the mug!!) ... I'm wondering how it will help "overall" in feeling better.  The truth is... I already am, even without the tea.  I've talked about the relapse feeling (from this tick bite and Lymes that I had contracted last year!) that I've had early on this summer... and how awful it's been.  I think that that is passing.. and how I know is by judging in how long I've been lasting - being in my kitchen all day - canning, etc.

I am reading... a few *new-to-me* blogs have caught my attention, recently.  I like to check in on them every now and again.  My Freshly Brewed Life, is one.  And, Remnants, is another!
I've met these through the Five Minute Friday link-up, that I have recently been enjoying being a part of. There are a couple of others, too!  Such as; Where Your Treasure Is  and Artful Homemaking.  Enjoy!!

I am hoping... to host yet another MUGS & MUFFINS (which includes a guest post, a great giveaway and a muffin recipe) - come September!!  I just wanted to spit a bug in your ear about it.  Stay tuned..

I am looking forward to... a Wedding in a couple of weeks.  My cousin, Sarah, is getting married and it's exciting to see my "younger" cousin all grown up and getting married.  Makes me tear up!

Around the house... lots and lots of drawings & various artwork pieces by a certain - near six year old. The other day she pulled petals off a few of my verbena flowers or was it the zinnia... and found a glue bottle - she was "remaking" her own flower(s) and gluing them on to paper.  Yes! I took a few photos of that, too!

I find dolls with toilet paper dresses held on with rubber bands.  Bracelets made out of plastic cups and scotch tape...
the girl keeps me on my toes!!  All of us, really!

I am pondering... a couple of things.  ((Are you ready? here we go!))
- Does my shy side ever come across as that I am snobby?  I think about that sometimes and it worries me.
- Am I teachable?  And, there is a difference between being teachable and being gullible.  You do know that, right?  lol!

A favorite quote for today... actually it is more like a favorite scripture right now...

In everything ... present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

One of my favorite things... listening to my son with a few of his "great ideas".  You know.. he's seven.  And, he's a thinker!  He'll often come up to me with - "hey Mom, I have an idea..." and off he is with trying out his latest and greatest invention.  What I love best is that Dad will get in on the idea - helping to make it happen - for him (Caleb!) to really see and test out his theory.

Fun times! and yes, unfortunately, there are some tears...

A few plans for the rest of the week:  We're looking at a few play-dates this week.  Also - canning red beets (most likely!), like I mentioned. I think Grandma Susie is coming in for a few days, from outta state. For real, this time. I say that because I think I mentioned this last time I posted for this daybook, that she was coming, and her plans cancelled.  But, Jayne's 3rd birthday is this coming Sunday!!  and Grandma just has to be here for that!  Of course...

Can you believe my baby will be three??  I can't either.

Oh, and I've been roped into making a tri-fold poster board display for my son's Scout pack...thanks to my hubby with his Cubmaster role... I'm happy to help!  IF that doesn't get done this week... at least it will till the end of the month or soon thereafter.

PS: I forgot to mention - we'll be having a Corn Party (1,000+ ears) on Saturday... up at my sister's place.

A peek into my day...

I've posted this photo before, once... but it is truly what my line looks like this morning!!

LOVE, love, LOVE!!!

Joining along with Peggy from The Simple Woman's Daybook...

A Daybook in July

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FOR TODAY  - the third Monday in July

Outside my window... the wash that my hubby hung up, for me, late yesterday afternoon is still hanging on the line... we failed to take it down in time before the evening dew had fallen on it.  

I am thinking...I figured one night, overnight, on the line, can't be all that bad!  I appreciated his help!!

I am thankful... for the (double) Date Night! we had last evening - with two of our dearest friends.  Hence, a late night and not getting the wash down in time.  :)

For sure, this date was needed... and lots of fun!  Dinner, Mini-golf and Ice Cream!!

In the kitchen... coffee!  Always... and home baked cookies, later today!

I am wearing... a brown & ruffly, Sarah Clemens, skirt and red t-shirt

I am creating... another "custom" bag order.  A friend of mine had a rather colorful coat, gifted to her by her now, late husband.  She no longer wears the coat and thought perhaps a bag out of it would be nice.  ** I don't do this for everyone.  And perhaps this bag will have it's own post in due time... stay tuned!

I am going... headed out the door in just a few moments to take the kids off to camp.  They're at the start of their second to last week of camp:  Camp Good News.  Till it's all said and done, they'll have gone to camp six weeks out of the summer!

I am wondering... how the kids will fare this week?  I could tell that the attendance had nearly doubled since the beginning days of camp, several weeks ago.  I told them ... this means, you're going to have make great effort to welcome the "newbies" to the camp.   To still enjoy yourself;  in all the activities and games, but you might have to step back more often and let the others (again, newbies!) have a turn more often.

It may be just me... but I worry.  I worry that they'll forget their manners sometimes.  Being "old hat" and oh so comfortable with the rhythm and routine of "camp life" that they'll forget to be mindful, share and sensitive.  I pray that they'll make friends easy and not just kids that they already know so well...

I am hoping...all in all that they'll have loads of fun!!

I am looking forward to...  My two older kids are also signed up for swimming lessons - which start on Saturday!  I'm glad about this, as it's my husband who has got the ball rolling on this.  I have never taken lessons and what limited "swimming" I have ever done, be it in creeks or murky farm ponds, oh there was an occasional swimming pool (that's what I grew up doing!), but I should have learned somewhere, sometime, something.
 I personally have had too many scary close calls and therefore don't like the water (I'll go in, but don't make me go under!)... Scott, my husband, on the other hand, is a fish!  HE LOVES the water and our 7yr old, Caleb, is right behind him in this... I hope something great will come of swimming lessons.

I am reading...well, you might find this interesting?  Remember my Summer Reading dilemma?  Well, I chose the Jan Karon book (In the Company of Others) to start reading, as my "light" reading.  I literally laughed out loud while reading the first chapter and have been reading it, slowly, ever since.  I'm still plugging away at: A Praying Life.  It's just going to be this way for awhile... and, that's okay!

Oh, I forgot.  Over the weekend my sister, Gladys, gifted me with two "new" cookbooks - as a belated birthday gift!  Of course, I've been thumbing through them, now, too!  These two books are:  A Farmer's Daughter, by Dawn Stoltzfus  *(I follow Dawn's blog) and Homemade Goodness; which is a collection of recipes by various current and former cooks at Bald Eagle Wilderness Boys Camp.    A place where my sister, Gladys, is currently the head cook!

 I'm super excited about both of these cookbooks.  And, I thank her for these gifts!!

** As a side note:  Homemade Goodness is recently hot off the press, available, for sale with the proceeds going to benefit this Boys Camp.  Check it out!  Actually, you might have to contact that camp directly for a sale to be completed... I can't find anything online about it, as of yet!

UPDATE:  I found an email address for orders to be placed:  homemadegoodness4u@gmail.com

I am learning...in bits and pieces... what flexibility is all about.  Don't ask me much about it... I might snap! ;) Or, get too bent out of shape!  lol.

I'm also learning... enjoying... my kids enthusiasm towards things in nature whether in the sky or on earth. Have you ever seen an upside down rainbow?  We have... just the other evening.  Daddy got called away from his study hour with questions out the whazoo of how and why and what would cause "that!"?
I was all ears..

Around the house... catching up from the weekend... I'm sure.  I do have to get that wash down and bake those cookies.. there might be some dinner to cook for, a watermelon to cut up and a bed to sleep in tonight.  I'm tired!  and it's only mid-morning...

I am pondering...the health benefit of Colloidal Silver.  As it pertains to me having/had Lyme Disease, in the last year and what seems like forever... Plantar Warts, on my feet.  Someone sent me information on it... and I'm really, really intrigued.  I would like to be free of this stuff..

A favorite quote for today...  "I Passed!"  
Something my hubby said to me, over the phone this morning... as another part of his schooling is behind us. There is more to go.  But, each time I hear those words... I'm so giddy with excitement for his successes.  Thank you, Lord!!

A few (not just one) of my favorite things... listening to my baby (soon-to-be) three years of age, playing the game Candy Land with her siblings or (older!) friends.  Seeing her toes curl, in concentration - at watering flowers.  Picking off a few handfuls of green beans...

Again, hearing my kids exclaim over things they see or hear, etc.

A few plans for the rest of the week: in no particular order.  Swimming lessons, dentist appointments, Scout meetings (for my son and hubby), lunch dates with a few friends (on separate days), caregroup social, a memorial service (if I go!), and  my Mother-in-law, Susie Mom,  is planning to come for a few days...overlapping some of these other things.  

A peek into my day...

Something's missing.  Must have been that needed article of clothing..snatched off the line last evening!!  I think it was me..
How do you like our creativity when we've run out of line for the load?

Enjoy, your day!  Thanks for reading along.. 

***
 Joining up, today, with Peggy from The Simple Woman's Daybook... and you can too!

A Daybook in June

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FOR TODAY - The second Monday in June

Outside my window... it's a little grey out there, this morning!  Calm and reflective.  I like these sorts of days, best!

I am thinking... it's a little quiet indoors, this morning, as well.  The girls are quietly playing...(no more school, for Aubrey!) and Caleb is in his last few days of school.  This is his last week...

I am thankful... really - for how well this school year went.  God has been faithful to bring good, Christian teachers into our kids lives - so far!  It's really encouraging...
I'm thankful for their influence and resolve to teach and teach well.

In the kitchen...we had some friends here for Sunday dinner yesterday.  My friend - left some pie/dessert for our family to enjoy.  So - oh yeah!  Coffee and shoo-fly pie for breakfast.  How can it get better than that?

I am wearing... a silky, rayon polka-dot skirt in navy blue, with a coordinating blue tee...

I am creating...working on a few Clothespin Bags; filling an order and hopefully have one to put in the etsy shop!

I am going...out to Lancaster Co.  (one of my favorite places to shop) with a girlfriend of mine tomorrow. Celebrating my 41st, requires a day of fun!  Don't you think?  Too bad, its going to have to include some grocery shopping - but I am required to feed my family.. :)
Oh, and I also have to head to the post office today - to mail out a few other gifts and the order of three baby shoes...

I am wondering...I guess it will pretty much rain all day.  I'll be using my dryer this morning... for sure!  No hanging laundry on the line today.

I am reading...still reading, A Praying Life - by Paul E. Miller  (This link specifically shares quotes from the book...)

I am hoping... the ants, in my kitchen; in my house, will soon disappear.  They are... slowly!  I know I do talk about this a lot.  Don't I?

I am looking forward to...spending some time with my friend, tomorrow.  I am also looking forward to what summer will bring.  Babysitting.  Sewing.  Kids off to Camp!!

I am learning...understanding more and more, the 'love languages of my children.  One is Words of Affirmation for sure - the other two?  Well, we're still working on it... the learning of it.  See?

Around the house... are piles!  A pile of school papers that needed sorting and organizing.  A pile of clean laundry to be put away.  A pile of toys that need sorting and stored properly.  A pile or two of bags/boxes heading off to the thrift store... I keep adding to this one.  It feels GREAT!!

I am pondering... the deep and the wide of friends; of relationships...

A favorite quote for today... Cherish the Plain and Ordinary of Today!  it's written in chalk on my kitchen's little blackboard and I pass by it everyday... it continues to remind me of it's importance.

One of my favorite things... my near three year old whispering in my ear.  Talk about "sweet nothings!" - because that is what is.  Too cute!

A few plans for the rest of the week:  in no specific order
Caleb's last day of School for the year.  A Chiropractor appointment.  A Caregroup "event" at the park for the kids, one evening...
Birthday/Lancaster Shopping trip!
My husband and son go camping, with Scouts...

A peek into my day...
a teacher gift - headed out the door, with my son, this morning!!

:: Little Ray of Sunshine ::

pocket pouch

donated gift

And here are the other two pair of Homespun Baby! shoes heading out to the P.O. later today.  (I think I showed you the third pair here.)

Homespun Baby! Shoes - boys
Reserved Order

Homespun Baby! Shoes - girls
Reserved Order

***

Joining along with Peggy from The Simple Woman's Daybook...

Come back tomorrow as I share a Prayer Request, of sorts, with you!!
Thanks for reading  - here today.

A Daybook in May

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FOR TODAY ~ Keep in mind.   I am working on this post, here, on  Sunday evening, in anticipation for tomorrow morning. As you're first reading this, it'll be the third Monday of the month, of May.

Outside my window... it's late evening.  The night sky has fallen, and the air is quite cool on this spring evening.

I am thinking... I know my children we're tired.  But, we pretty much shared our stories - of when we were a kid! - and one of them for sure, fell asleep - lights out!- even before we turned them out.

I am thankful... for shelter; warm beds to lay our heads at night and clean clothes and plenty enough to eat.  Amen?

In the kitchen... cup of coffee and a bowl of ice cream, with pretzels!  well, in reality, those are now by my side. :)

I am wearing... pj's.  of course!!

I am creating... a package or two to get mailed out in the morning.  One to Grandma Susie and the other to the winner of the last giveaway I held here... congratulations Connie S.

I am going... tomorrow, Monday morning!   I am going with my daughter. for her school, field trip, to a fun filled place called... Merrymead Farm!

I am wondering... how my youngest will do with her own little friend, on their play date, while I'm off on this school trip.

I am reading... A Praying Life - by Paul E. Miller.  Wow.. what an enjoyable, convicting read - if you can imagine the two together.

I am hoping... to head out to the local greenhouse either this afternoon or soon to pick up a few more starter plants... and herbs.

I am looking forward to... watching my flower bed come to life.  We planted pansies and green bean seeds, so far, the other evening, the girls and I.

I am learning... that as much pride I may see in someone else, there is more, much more, in myself.  Ouch!!

Around the house... ANTS!! (there is a story, here! in this link.. that I wanted to remind you, my reader and myself of..) The ants are back... though, not quite as bad this year.  So far!   I think I got em sooner -using a certain ant trap, for which I am entirely grateful for.

I am pondering... this book I'm reading. (A Praying Life...)

A favorite quote for today...
Learning to pray doesn't offer you a less busy life; it offers you a less busy heart. ~ Paul E. Miller

One of my favorite things... hearing the cycling through of the washing machine, doing it's thing.  After that... hearing the songs birds and smelling the fresh air; taking in all of nature as I hang the load of laundry on the line..

A few plans for the rest of the week:  Babysitting and baking!  Lots of baking.  I signed up, today at church, to contribute towards a bake sale for this coming Saturday!

A peek into my day...



***
Following along with Peggy from The Simple Woman's Daybook

A Daybook in April

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FOR TODAY ~  before the month of April slips away - I thought I would try to capture this day getting a post on the books, so to speak.

Outside my window... the skies are a blanket of grey, scattered clouds.  The sun is peeping through here and there but it is "chilly"..

I am thinking... I am glad I finished the laundry on Monday...there was lots of sunshine that day.

I am thankful... the opportunity came, yesterday, to watch three little ones for my friend Abby & her husband - who are here, State-side, for a few weeks.

In the kitchen... homemade bread, turned toast.  With a drizzle of wildflower honey and cinnamon.  Coffee, too! of course.  That was breakfast.  Next it'll be lunch with the same bread:  grilled cheese sandwiches.

I am wearing... a long blue-jean skirt and an orange-ish colored T-shirt with three-quartered length sleeves..

I am creating... a classic, medium size tote bag (which will soon be posted in my shop) with a matching Pocket Pouch...to be listed/sold as a set.

I am going... in a few minutes to pick Aubrey up from her preschool.. (that was at 11am)

I am wondering...Who else is tired of picking up strands of Easter (basket) grass from all over the house? Yes, I'm complaining..

I am also wondering, How many of you enjoyed your Easter Weekend?  I did.  We did.  Wonderfully so.  We got to go visit Grandma Susie (my MIL) and an Aunt & Uncle who live in NY.  We got to take my Mom along for the ride. :)

I am reading...nothing new! Bookwise.  Sad, to say...

I am hoping... for a chance to put in a garden.  A small, small garden.  I just received permission, yesterday, from our landlords, to put in a removable, raised bed...and so we'll see if and where we can get our hands on my cheap lumber/boards to do so.  I can hardly breathe, I'm so excited..

I am looking forward to... actually, Aubrey is!  Looking forward to another playdate, today, with another little friend from church.

As well.  Looking forward to hosting my family (12 of them, plus Scott, the kids and I) here for Sunday lunch.

I am learning...how to work my *new* (cell) phone... It's smarter than me! We're finally getting modern around here. :)

Around the house... ( I can hear!) My near three year old singing... it's fun to watch and listen to her grow into her own person.  Every day there is more & more...

I am pondering (still)... in light of Easter last weekend... I have been pondering the significance of Saturday.  The time between the actual crucifixion of Christ and his Resurrection!  What a day of rolling emotion and intensity.  For both those that believed in Jesus; being his followers and of those who didn't.

A favorite quote for today... something to think about...as principles for life.
If you want to be rich -- give.
If you want to be poor -- grasp.
If you want abundance -- scatter.
If you want to be needy -- hoard.

One of my favorite things...

for today, this week??  TISSUES!!  oh, they're so handy.  Not liken' the reason I need them though...

A few plans for the rest of the week:  As mentioned.  Sunday Lunch - here!
Caleb has a birthday party to go to on Saturday...and possibly something with Dad in regards to Scouts!

Playdates and food prep will obviously be part of this week..
Maybe working in the flowerbeds a bit, as well.  Prepping them for seeds and starter plants..

A peek into my day...

Like I said... tissues!

Praying to have allergies (??) soon be a passing thing!

And, here's to...

Lunch and Tea Party with little friend...after school.
***

Following along with Peggy from The Simple Woman's Daybook

A Daybook in March

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FOR TODAY ~ the 4th Monday of the month!

Outside my window... the sun is shining beautiful, this morning. But the temps are dropping...  Three guesses what is in the forecast for tomorrow??  Yup!  Sn-NO!-ow, but only 1-2" and it'll be outta here.. ;)

I am thankful...for the healing that has since come to our home, from over the past week.  What a week, last week was.  I think it hit everybody, except for me. I was the least affected.  I may have had a twinge of it.. however, this bug had hit our son. BAD!

Every hour, consistent in time, this kid threw up... and this went on all Friday night long.  We had been up with him at least twice, by this point, when while as my husband and I crawled back into bed for the third time! I whispered in the dark...as we held one another.  I said to my husband, "Thank you, Scott! Thank you, for helping me! You know, this.  This is what makes the "lovemaking" go on and on in our marriage.. This is what solidifies our making of that love, between us, to the now of helping one another now - in sickness and in health , etc.... this is what really is the making and keeping of our union and what its all about.."  He agreed..and we fell off asleep for another hour until Caleb called out again, and this continued on, and again, and again..
The next morning - Jayne headed for round two..

This photo was taken sometime on Saturday.  Thankfully Caleb and everyone else is feeling way better..by this morning.

We have a *NEW* week ahead of us..praise the Lord!!

In the kitchen...a Buttermilk Coffee Cake (with chopped apples and pecans). It goes along perfectly with a cup of hot coffee, this morning.  And, why wouldn't it?
A Ham Dinner is on the menu for dinner, tonight!

I am wearing... I am wearing a brown linen Sarah skirt, this morning...and a black Tee!  (of course..)

I am creating...I'm almost done with this one "custom" bag order - and I can't wait to tell you the story that goes a long with this bag... hang in there!  It'll come.
Oh, and I got another "custom" bag request as of yesterday..

I am going... to go by Dunkin Donuts and get me a FREE Iced Coffee, today (for a limited time!).  Although, let me tell you.  I did that last week, too, and I think by Thursday that  20oz. was still in the fridge - unfinished.  I guess, I should say "I THINK, I am going.." - maybe I don't really need to go there after all, if I can't finish them..  That's probably quite okay..

I am wondering...and I wonder no more!  There is green pushing through the ground..  We'll be having daffodils before too long...

I am reading...not much of anything *new* this month.  Finishing up the Unglued book, probably this week, and I still have a few other books still lingering around on the nightstand...ones I've share with you previously.. I realize I'm a slow reader.  But, that's okay.  I only read at bedtime anyway.  :)

I am hoping... to receive a few things via snail mail, this week!  I was a recent winner to two different giveaways!  How exciting!!

I am looking forward to...  Okay!  so while my husband and I know who is moving next door, our kids do not. At least, not yet.  It's my brother; one of their favorite uncles.  So - yesterday we got talking about "who just might the new neighbors be"..?   Here is Aubrey's concern: "I hope they're not mean!"  to which I replied, even if they are "we still need to be nice to them".  Caleb pipes up.  "I wonder if they'll know God?" - to which I replied... We'll have to see but of course, if they don't we'll be sure to tell them who Jesus is.."
So, when I told my bro about this (in hushed whispers, at church) he was beside himself in awe of how much these kids have "spiritual concerns and context on their hearts and minds"...

I am learning..as hard as parenting can be at times... what really matters, the things of the LORD!, are really sticking.  Faithful, consistent teaching; living & leading by example is HUGE!!!!!!!!!  And it's hard..
I really appreciate the captive audience I have, we have as parents, at bedtime when we read Scripture, share stories and pray together..
There is something about that happening right at bedtime that one can fall asleep in peace - knowing the LORD is by our side...

Around the house... some Spring Cleaning! is taking place..
As well.  We have been ridding a lot of mice/rodents out of our home.  And Oh!  I have quite a few stories I could share.  And, so could our little Jayne.  She loves it that "Daddy comes to the rescue and will slay the dragon" for her, every. single. time.  "Daddy hit it hard, hard, hard..."she'll say.   He used a wooden mallet type thingy... oh, yes he did!  Hey - if they're not going to take to the traps and they instead choose to just meander around the dining room, s.l.o.w.l.y.  Enough that they can be "taken out" thatta way... then why not?
When they're out of their territory and in mine!  I don't like it..


I am pondering... every night, our little ones will ask us for a story of when we were a kid!  Almost every time I think of this..
As a youngster, I would get reprimanded for calling other children - kids!  My mom would say.  They are children.  NOT baby goats..
Am I the only one that ever happened to?  I still call my kids, kids... but I do think about it.  Why??

A favorite quote for today... I recently received  a little perpetual calendar, as a gift (from Connie S. thank you!); by Ann Voskamp... ohh, there are some great quotes in there.  I have it tucked up on my kitchen windowsill at the moment where I have plenty of time to read and reread the selected piece for the day.  Here is one that continues to grab my attention: ( I have to flip back to read and reread..)
"I have lived pain and my life can tell:  I only deepen the wound of the world when I neglect to give thanks for early light dappled through leaves and the heavy perfume of peonies in June and the song of crickets on summer humid nights and the rivers that run and the stars that rise and the rain that falls and all the good gifts that a good God gives." ~ Ann Voskamp

One of my favorite things...having now broken the ice, one of my favorite things to do right now is to talk to Kaitlin - on the phone.  And, I'm so not a phone person... at all!  She says, she has plans to change that fact about me..  She just may be right!

A few plans for the rest of the week:  Scott is having surgery this week... a periodontal surgery.  He'll be home for a couple of days; recovering - possibly working from home, those days!  There is also a Scouts meeting; a Bible Club meeting (for Caleb) and the making of  Scrapple - planned for Saturday!

A peek into my day...



***
Following with Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook

A Daybook in February

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FOR TODAY ~ Friday!  the last day of the month!  Really?  Somehow this month got away from me (Yes! likely excuse.  Take it and run..!) and so, here we are.  Our Daybook for February.

Outside my window... VERY cold overnight and blistery this morning.  BUT - beautiful, beautiful sunshine.  Can't complain..
This is Winter... the way it should be.

I am thinking... it does smell like snow in the air - and I know they're calling for some..over the weekend and into Monday.

I am thankful... I say this all of the time (to my children!) - we have so much to be thankful for.  Warm home, comfortable beds, good food, clothes...our Salvation!

In the kitchen... are dishes yet to clean up from yesterday.  (sigh!) Yesterday, I cooked up two roaster chickens. Picked the meat and put away several bags of delicious cooked chicken for future meals.  One thing I did do yesterday, which was a HUGE HIT!!!, was to make a *new for us* dish. I made Chicken Gravy over Waffles for dinner.  No recipe.  Sorry!  That's not always how I fly..
Except:  I guess I could share the waffle recipe.  (very good!) - but I'm sure everyone has their hands on a good waffle recipe.  Perhaps?

I am wearing...**BTW: I greatly dislike this prompt**  I get caught wearing the usual; a black t-shirt and my favorite jean skirt all of the time.  (like me for my honesty!?)... but one thing I am wearing is a dab or two of Citrus Bliss Essential Oil (doTerra) behind my ears..

I am creating... still working on several bag orders.  I have at least two in the line-up... and more on my mind. ;)

I am going... to be taking some things to our local thrift store.. hopefully this afternoon!  It's a feel-good feeling to "pass a few things on".

I am wondering...what it's going to be like without my next-door-neighbor-friend...Amanda!  She and her family are moving this weekend.  I'm going to really, really miss my our times of chatting "over the wash line" or out on the front porch(s).  Sometimes it would be hers or sometimes mine..

I am hoping... for the best! for their family.  As they adjust to a "new home!", etc.

I am looking forward to... what the Lord has for our next *new* neighbors.  We already know who this will be..

I am (currently) reading... Unglued, by Lysa TerKeurst.  I have talked about this recently... in recent blog posts.

I am learning..  The more I'm aware the uglier it is.  Maybe I should say the more real it is.  Awareness is good.  But, the grace of God in the reality is even better.

Around the house... my "to-do" list is lengthy... and so...

I am pondering...some of the "biblical" and deep questions my son has been asking here of late.  Some of things he comes up with... ?!?!?  I don't want to laugh but you know what I mean... they are too much, sometimes.

A favorite quote for today... "God, of your goodness, give me Yourself, for you are enough for me.  And only in You do I have everything."  ~ Julian of Norwich

One of my favorite things...waking up, from a good night's sleep, to the quiet strains of music coming from my alarm clock.

A few plans for the rest of the week:  Ha!  this is plan.  Get through the remainder of this day!

A peek into my day...

Let's talk about these geraniums, for a minute. Besides, the fact that I just wanted to add some pretty color to your day - as well as mine!!  I was just thinking about them this morning, as I was getting dressed for the day.

Both of these hanging plants are being "wintered-over" (over-wintered!)  in our upstairs bathroom and bedroom windows. And, they're thriving well...

They're hanging in there (pun, fully intended) - waiting.  They don't need a lot of fuss or attention.  They're just waiting.  I do this every winter!!

Why is it that we, as humans, get impatient and want to buck the season that God has us in?  - you could call this some more of my pondering(s)...

Well, friend!  Enjoy your day!  and your weekend...

I love hearing from you! via your comments or emails..
Oh - And - I do want to say a special "hello and welcome" to some of our newer friends who have recently decided to follow along here at Treasured Up and Pondered.  Thank you - all - for reading... you are a delight!

***

Following with Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook

A Daybook in January

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FOR TODAY ~ the fourth Monday of the month...

Outside my window... there is still snow on the ground (as we've had another 2" +, over the weekend) and the skies are a whitish grey... the sun was trying to shine this morning.. maybe it will still make it later today.

I am thinking...the temps!  This morning (at around 8:10 AM)  it was so weird.  IT FELT SO WARM outdoors this morning.  While waiting, with my son, for the school bus - we were commenting on how still - how warm - the weather felt. The thermometer reads 25*.  With a high of 33* expected for today.

I am thankful...a good night of rest last night.  I didn't know it until this morning that my hubby did not sleep so well.  (I'm sorry!)  I had no idea that he was up for about 2 hours with one of the girls...who either fell out of bed and couldn't settle back down or what?  I must have "crashed"... cause I didn't hear nothin'. and was dreamin' the sweetest of dreams.. yes! indeedy.

In the kitchen...reheated coffee (I'm afraid!) and a few bites of coffee cake - for me!  The kids all had cereal this morning, and yesterday (Sunday lunch!) was a nice pan of Chicken and White Bean Enchiladas.  I'll share the recipe another time this week.
Let me clarify on the coffee... soon! there'll be a fresh new pot in the making.

I am wearing... my usual fare.  A long jean skirt and a simple black Tee..

I am creating... well.  I have been a busy bee this past week. And, last night, I finished up another bag order. I can't wait to take photos of it and post it.  This one might be my next new favorite.  Unfortunately... it is a SOLD order.  As well.  I made two girls skirts... again, both are/were gifts.
I'll show all of these as soon as I have pics...

I am going... outdoors soon - to take those photos..  As soon as my camera battery charges!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (this camera of mine..)

I am wondering... if your weekend was as wonderful as mine?
**We've had a lot of fun...Saturday.  Caleb raced his first Pine Wood Derby race.  He placed third in his heat.  That was fun helping paint and decorate his car... a couple of nights ago.  As well... I was up early Saturday morning flipping pancakes for him to take along.  His daddy signed me up!  Caleb LOVES his blueberries - so I whipped up a batch of Whole Wheat Buttermilk pancakes sprinkled with blueberries.  His kiss on my cheek upon his return home that day and the whisper in  my ear that those were the bestest pancakes ever!  won my heart a GOLD medal!

And Aubrey... well, she went to first ever BIRTHDAY PARTY... for a little gal from her school.  She came home all decked out in pink fairy wings and sprinkles of treats from her "take-home" party favor bag.  Oh goodness!  For the little girl's gift, Aubrey wanted me to make her a skirt.  She was so proud to pick out the fabric - from my stash!

All while this was happening - the snow was starting to fall. What a wonderful evening to just stay home and cozy up to some yummy Potato Soup and Yorkshire Pudding. (Curious: who knows what Yorkshire Pudding is and if you've ever made it yourself?)
Saturday afternoon/evening is when we got about another 2" on top of what we have had already on the ground  and so after church on Sunday - the kids got to go outdoors to play in the snow.  Even Jayne wanted to go out.

I am reading...I'm still thumbing through the book: Grace for the Good Girl (Letting go of the try-hard life) by Emily Freeman and I've also picked up: A Sweetness to the Soul by Jane Kirkpatrick.  This last book here has been tucked away on my bookshelf for like FOREVER!!  I can't believe I've never opened it up to read before.. Jane is such an amazing, seasoned author.

Oh - and I picked up another *new for me* cookbook over the weekend!  Favorite Recipes from Quilters..  by Louise Stoltzfus.  I've been having fun sitting around and reading through it, as well.

I am hoping...for a mellow week this week (schedule wise) and a chance taken to do some things around the house that NEED to be done!!!  Maybe try out a few new recipes, eh?

I am looking forward to (and a little nervous about) ...something that starts in a couple of weeks.  Feb. 9th! to be exact.  My husband Scott and I are coordinating a 9-week course - through our church - using the materials from Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University.  So far we are having an amazing turnout of interest...
This is our first time of doing anything like this (as coordinator's) but personally we've gone through these materials for a total of 3 times... and cannot tell you how much this has radically changed our lives.  We are so sure of it that we "just have to" tell others about it and assist them through it..
Praying that we can of influence to someone else (even if it's just one person!) to make a lasting difference in their lives and for their future as well.  However....

I am learning...You can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink.    It's been the hardest thing for me to learn. Try... but then to let go and let others learn from their mistakes, etc.
(sigh!)

Around the house... are the obvious tell-tale signs that this house is lived in!  That kids have (some really big!) imaginations; the daddy works hard to provide and the mamma does her best to "keep up" and keep after.

I am pondering... my recent epiphany!

A favorite quote for today... While thumbing through this new cookbook I found a quote (as there are stories, and memories of both quilting and cooking sprinkled all through out this cookbook) that just made me swoon... and thought, if only this would be true for me. However..., I will not hold my breath.  As some of you might know - my hubby doesn't cook and while I love quilting, I'd be worried for him... and wouldn't get anything done.

 Here is the quote..
My husband does most of the cooking while I quilt. ~ Joan Coale Klosek, Ellicott City, MD

I had to chuckle a little bit over this one... Bless them both! I said to myself.

One of my favorite things...hearing my two year old sing her little heart out as she toddles around the house.

A few plans for the rest of the week:  I do have a meeting scheduled with Aubrey's pre-school teacher, Friday and one of our vehicles will be off for inspection.  So, other then continuing to keep the home fires burning... it's a hope for a quiet week.

A peek into my day...
I'm pulling out an "old" photo here - one from a couple of weeks ago. You've seen this photo before, I'm sure.  It's the only one I have of some pretty long icicles..

Icicles always warm my heart.

I share this photo with you today, because as I was out and around this morning (in between the writings of this post) I noticed that random icicles I would see here and there were getting longer and longer- as the morning wore on.   As I type I can hear snow sliding off of our tin porch roof.

Obviously - the sun did make it out today...we're warming up, folks!  We warming up!!  But only for a short while, so I hear.  Another serious cold snap is on it's way..

**Following along with Peggy from The Simple Woman's Daybook.