tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-371080762024-03-07T01:09:17.564-08:00mommy blogThe Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.comBlogger387125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-41631153192218336322012-07-29T20:54:00.003-07:002012-07-29T20:54:50.786-07:00There's Grace For That<div style="text-align: center;">
Please head over to my new blog!</div>
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<a href="http://graceforthat.blogspot.com/">GraceForThat.blogspot.com</a></div>
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See you There.</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-34024651033765946102012-07-28T21:18:00.001-07:002012-07-28T21:18:48.099-07:00Fresh BeginningsI am getting very excited to unveil my new blog:<div>
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<b>Monday July 30th</b></div>
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This blog will be unavailable in the next few weeks. You will find yourself redirected to my new website. Some of the recipes I have posted over the years will transfer over--the ones I find myself using over and over again.</div>
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See you there!</div>
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<br /></div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-46217131495876775952012-07-17T04:18:00.000-07:002012-07-17T04:18:45.532-07:00A Fresh Vision, A Gracefull MissionIt is with mixed emotion I close this blog and begin a new one. Sad because this blog has served as a journal of sorts for the last 5 years with many found resources logged for my own personal use, or to share with others. Happy and excited, however, to be starting Fresh!<div>
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I am so excited to begin a blog with a <span style="font-size: large;">fresh vision</span> and <span style="font-size: large;">purpose</span>! A couple of readers I know of, (you know who you are) may have been wondering where I've been the past month. </div>
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Hopefully, <span style="font-size: large;">August 1st</span> I will unveil a new blog. Perhaps sooner.... give a little <span style="font-size: large;">grace </span>:)</div>
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Please stay tuned!</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-63860929192546046012012-06-12T20:35:00.003-07:002012-06-12T20:35:34.042-07:00Finding Balance<br />
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<i>She sees that her trading is profitable and her lamp does not go out at night. Prov. 31:18</i></div>
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This Proverbs 31 Woman doesn't go and do things that are not worthwhile, or just for the sake to "stay busy". She pursues opportunities for business that will be "profitable." That takes smarts and good judgment. She is busy up into the evening, perhaps planning, being with her husband and family. Her daily tasks and ventures do not leave her completely worn thin. She has found for her, what she can do in her day to avoid being lazy, in fact she is making the most of every opportunity, yet she's not "burned out."<br />
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This kind of living takes wisdom and discernment that only comes from spending time with God. Arranging priorities and listening for God's voice first and foremost. Now, it's easy to be busy as a mom. The days can easily fill up with play dates, coffee dates, business preparations, home-making, ladies bible studies, church ministries, extra-curriculars, shopping. But if "burn-out" is impending and our energy is sapped when our family/husbands are with us in the evening, what good are all these things? And, do we really want our children's memories to be filled with a 'haggard mother' who was always tired and stretched to the maximum?<br />
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We must find a balance that the Lord is in control of. If we aren't submitting our schedule and commitments to Him, how can we expect Him to bless them?<br />
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Go to the Word<br />
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<br />The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-11885901896798883082012-06-05T04:10:00.000-07:002012-06-05T04:10:13.858-07:00Gifts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83N0klmiIESjLkEzqDxuGjyxeZTWnh5hH3lifZdeeeSmKsNa53hTQcYyapGTh4EeWsQNUOEdbp4CJk_GFWk5WPwAKscaYaZl2NPoNt4PwrHjKMRjYrTg3q-_mW5dMjVo9W8xyYQ/s1600/IMG_2553+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83N0klmiIESjLkEzqDxuGjyxeZTWnh5hH3lifZdeeeSmKsNa53hTQcYyapGTh4EeWsQNUOEdbp4CJk_GFWk5WPwAKscaYaZl2NPoNt4PwrHjKMRjYrTg3q-_mW5dMjVo9W8xyYQ/s640/IMG_2553+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ability to purchase and download<br />ebooks for my daughter to read!<br />This is wonderful since it's extremely expensive<br />to ship books from Amazon.com to Madagascar.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Last week I purposed to write down 7 gifts I received throughout my day each day, and I can't believe what a blessing it was when I reflected back on it at the end of the week. This idea was inspired by Ann Voskamp over at </span><a href="http://aholyexperience.com/" style="text-align: center;">aholyexperience.com</a><span style="text-align: center;">, and I printed out her free little booklet you can find </span><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/7-gifts-free-printable-10-helps-for-moms/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="text-align: center;"> to help me. Suddenly I was seeing </span><i style="text-align: center;">normal, everyday</i><span style="text-align: center;"> things with new eyes. God has blessed me richly! I am so thankful.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">More <i>gifts </i>this week</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> - being called a <i>cool lego builder</i> by my 3-year-old son</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> - being asked to cuddle in bed before lights-out</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> - coffee out with ladies</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> - leftovers to create a new meal with</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> - email from a friend in Canada</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> - opportunities to Skype with friends and loved-ones</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> - watching my children play together and love one another</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faith finished Kindergarten math today!</td></tr>
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<br />The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-53610550254836365062012-06-01T06:45:00.000-07:002012-06-01T09:40:12.667-07:00To Create Beauty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes, this is a picture of my main toilet room downstairs in our house. Behind the curtain is a little vented window into the garage.<br />
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Now it is covered, and I hope, this room is a little more welcoming.<br />
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Have you beautified anything this week?The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-40464876124016126572012-05-30T04:40:00.000-07:002012-05-30T04:44:21.141-07:00Soul Food<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">I</span>magine feeding your soul every time you fed your body?<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> S</span>haring true life-giving food together....
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We are trying something new at our mealtimes. Ending each meal with a verse or two.... feeding our souls at the same time we feed our bodies.<br />
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<i>man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.</i></div>
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<i>Deut. 8:3b</i></div>
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Have you fed your soul today?</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-51057216591146041152012-05-29T01:16:00.001-07:002012-05-29T01:16:33.409-07:00Thankful for Yummy Things<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oatmeal spice muffins, M&M Cookies, Yogurt, Bread</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beef Curry for Dinner</td></tr>
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Today was a <i>yummy </i>day. While delicious things emerged from the kitchen to enjoy throughout the afternoon, beef curry simmered in the crock pot for dinner.<br />
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There is something therapeutic about being busy in the kitchen. I was exhausted in the evening---a "good-exhausted".The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-28768267324609803132012-05-25T11:03:00.000-07:002012-05-25T11:03:42.400-07:00Staying-Indoors FridaysAdjusting to life on a tropical island and the constant beautiful weather and compound life with lots of busyness and constant playmates just steps away from our house has had me thinking about how I might wisely wrangle my family together. I love the fact that we can live in sandals year round; I love that the yard is safe and spacious for my 3 year old son to wander; I love that the children LOVE the outdoors. But I found, with the outdoors, basically a new extension to our house, that it is very easy for me to lose track of where everybody is, to lose track of time, and to sometimes allow opportunities for quality time together to slip away. Here, the outdoors could easily be used as a babysitter, like we could use the tv. Why stop them from playing and being out there? They love it, they're entertained, and now I can get something done.<br />
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There needs to be balance in everything, of course.<br />
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It began somewhat coincidentally, and then grew into something more intentional. Every other Friday, my helper works at another home, so after two weeks with a worker in my house, it felt a bit more automatic to desire an "indoor-day" on Fridays. Daddy goes to work, the kids and I have breakfast and then we continue our morning a little bit more relaxed--we usually don't have school work on this day, but we try and spend the morning reading more books together, perhaps playing some games, singing together, dancing even (without being watched by my helper! :) haha. Yes, the kids ask almost straight after breakfast if they may head outside to play, but my intent is that we try to stay indoors, or if we do venture out, we do it together---a picnic on our lawn together, or a game outside. It is not a punishment, it is not dreaded, but it is a day where we can focus more on each other in the confines of the house. The kids play quietly together in one of the bedrooms--hopefully sorting out their sibling differences on their own. They spend time playing Lego together, putting together Playmobil, taking turns picking a tv program, reading to one another.</div>
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It has become one of my favourite days of the week. </div>
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<br /></div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-64956840147406566742012-05-21T07:00:00.000-07:002012-05-21T07:00:05.630-07:00Soaked Apple Cinnamon Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We enjoyed these <b>Soaked Apple Cinnamon Muffins</b> for breakfast this morning. I prepared the soak last night, mixed the other dry ingredients in a separate container and had everything ready to mix in the morning. It was a nice change from our normal breakfast.<br />
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I found this recipe over at <a href="http://www.cravingfresh.com/2012/03/apple-and-cinnamon-oat-muffin-recipe.html" target="_blank">Craving Fresh</a>. Thank you!<br />
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<i>Muffin Base</i><br />
1 C rolled oats<br />
1/2 C whole-wheat flour<br />
1C whey or buttermilk, or milk with 1T vinegar or lemon juice added<br />
Combine the above 3 ingredients, cover and let soak overnight<br />
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The next day cream together:<br />
1 egg<br />
1/4 C unrefined sugar, or honey<br />
1/2 C butter, melted<br />
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In another bowl combine additional dry ingredients:<br />
1/2 C plain all-purpose flour<br />
1/4 t salt<br />
1 t baking powder<br />
1/2 t baking soda<br />
1 t ground cinnamon<br />
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Combine wet ingredients with the soaked wheat and oats. Stir in the dry ingredients.<br />
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Lastly, fold in 1 chopped apple.<br />
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<i>Cinnamon topping</i><br />
1 T brown sugar<br />
1/2 t ground cinnamon<br />
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Scoop batter into prepared muffin tins. One recipe yields 12. Sprinkle topping on each muffin and bake in a 375 degree oven for about 16 minutes. Leave in pans to cool for 10 minutes before removing, unless using muffin liners.<br />
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<br />The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-92007372954135582212012-05-18T07:00:00.000-07:002012-05-18T07:00:14.272-07:00Being Intentional in Motherhood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since becoming a mother, time seems to be on the fast-track. Days are slipping away into the months, and the months are turning into years. Last night I remarked to my husband that I couldn't believe our eighth wedding anniversary was coming up next month.<br />
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<b>Time is literally flying by.</b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> (Ephesians 5:15-16)</span></div>
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I have received some strong admonitions from the Word lately, feeling a little like a kick in the pants, to become more intentional in my parenting. Even though I have always wanted to steer away from going into <i>survival-mode</i> there are times when we get to the end of the day and I am thankful we have done just that---<i>survived!</i> However, when I look at the mother instructing king Lemuel in Proverbs 31, I see an intentional woman. Not only that, but she instructs him to search for an intentional wife!</div>
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<b>What does <i>being intentional </i>look like practically?</b> </div>
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Being intentional to me means praying about our day together. When praying with my children at bedtime, we pray for the next day. That our actions and attitudes toward one another would be loving, and that we would be obedient to God. It means having forethought, making a plan, prayerfully considering what activities should and shouldn't be included in our daily routine. For me it also means sacrificing my time to get down and dirty with some activities - - finger painting! Being intentional is carving out time to read, play games, allow the kids to help me. It means on purpose training them in the ways of the Lord, training them in obedience, training them in gentleness and thankfulness. For our family, it's also a large reason why we chose to homeschool. Homeschooling forces me to have interaction with my kids that I might miss if they were in school six hours a day.</div>
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What does it look like for you? </div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-16685773726072190852012-05-16T07:00:00.000-07:002012-05-16T07:00:02.087-07:00Happy Birthday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You have been such a blessing in our lives. We are thankful to God for you. In the womb, you traveled with me to London. At just 2 months old, you flew all the way to Quebec with us, and then at 6 months, made a huge move to Madagascar. At 1 year old, you are practically a world traveler.<br />
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Mommy loves you so much!!!The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-1889622885166727522012-05-14T07:00:00.000-07:002012-05-14T07:00:04.137-07:00New Fall/Winter Menu Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puff Pancake</td></tr>
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You might be thinking, "Fall? Winter? Isn't it the middle of May? We are eagerly waiting for Summer to arrive!"<br />
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Here in Madagascar the weather is turning cooler, relatively speaking of course. Considering our lows are about the same as the west coast of BC's highs---12 degrees.<br />
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Anyways, I have been "flying by the seat of my pants" for long enough now. Anybody who has read my blog long enough knows that I am an avid meal planner, and as of late, like the past 3 months I haven't really planned any meals. Nap time rolls around and I'm frantically trying to figure out what we will be having for dinner that evening! No More.<br />
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The following is my meal plan for the next four weeks, and I will likely repeat it until I decide to come up with something different. I only ever plan for dinners (or the main meal of the day). Our breakfasts are pretty simple around here: either toast or oatmeal with chocolate milk, (I start my mornings with coffee). Lunches are also fairly simple, peanut butter sandwiches with either jam or banana, or leftovers, or rice.<br />
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<h2>
Dinner Menu for Fall / Winter</h2>
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Week 1</h3>
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Sunday: Pancakes</div>
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Monday: <a href="http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/2008/06/chicken-curry-over-rice.html" target="_blank">Chicken Curry</a></div>
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Tuesday: Hamburgers and Chips</div>
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Wednesday: Corn Chowder with Dinner Rolls</div>
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Thursday: <a href="http://madarecipes.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/mongolian-beef-2/" target="_blank">Mongolian Beef</a>, Rice, cold veggies and dip</div>
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Friday: Pizza</div>
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Saturday: <a href="http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/2008/05/f-n-sloppy-lentils.html" target="_blank">Sloppy Lentils</a> on fresh buns with Corn</div>
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<h3>
Week 2</h3>
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Sunday: Puff Pancakes and fruit</div>
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Monday: Taco Salad with pico de gallo salsa (fresh chopped salsa)</div>
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Tuesday: Pakistani Kima with Rice</div>
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Wednesday: Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, salad & cold veggies</div>
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Thursday: Roasted Chicken</div>
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Friday: Pizza</div>
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Saturday: Meatball Soup & Buns</div>
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<h3>
Week 3</h3>
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Sunday: French Toast or Pancakes</div>
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Monday: Chicken Dumplings</div>
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Tuesday: Meatloaf</div>
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Wednesday: Thai Peanut Chicken with Rice or noodles</div>
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Thursday: Sweet & Sour Meatballs with Rice</div>
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Friday: Pizza</div>
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Saturday: Bean Chili with Cornbread</div>
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<h3>
Week 4</h3>
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Sunday: Puff Pancake with Fruit</div>
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Monday: Beef Curry with Rice</div>
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Tuesday: Spaghetti & French Bread</div>
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Wednesday: Roasted chicken & potatoes (make extra for next meal)</div>
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Thursday: Shepherd's Pie</div>
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Friday: Pizza</div>
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Saturday: <a href="http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2008/07/sticky-coconut-chicken.html" target="_blank">Coconut Chicken</a> with Rice</div>
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You may have noticed we eat a lot of rice around here. The children prefer it over potatoes, and quite frankly, it's <i>super</i> easy to prepare and goes with anything. Each Friday we either order pizza or make it. (Since moving to Madagascar we've opted to order pizza because it's almost cheaper than making our own, however every now and then we still like making it, because there's nothing like a homemade crust!) Sundays are very simple. I try and have a soup ready in the crock pot for our lunch after church, and then we enjoy snack foods and something lighter for dinner.</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-44357004674670892522012-05-11T21:11:00.004-07:002012-05-11T21:12:59.749-07:00No Greater Joy<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth</i></div>
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I came upstairs the other morning to straighten up the bedrooms, and when I peaked into the girls' room I saw my 2-year old's bed like this. My heart swelled with gratitude and joy. I often find my oldest daughter's Bible nearby her own bed, a bookmark carefully marking her place.</div>
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I don't ever want to take a child's openness to Scripture for granted. As their hearts grow and develop and as their minds are exposed to ideas, I pray that God continues to soften their hearts and give them an authentic desire to live their lives for Him.</div>
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<i>Thank you Lord</i></div>
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<i>I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe.</i></div>
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<i>---- Ephesians 1:16-19</i></div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-90810945634157928162012-05-09T07:00:00.000-07:002012-05-09T07:00:12.038-07:00Christmas in May/June<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have undergone many adjustments in our family over the past 12 months:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Arrival of our 4th child</li>
<li>The first year homeschooling in our family</li>
<li>Move across the country</li>
<li>Leave all family and friends we've ever known</li>
<li>Experience language barriers</li>
<li>Moved to a new church family</li>
<li>Moved to Madagascar</li>
<li>Joined another church family</li>
<li>Adjusting to living abroad (list of details, I won't include here :)</li>
<li>Adjusting to living in a compound (or gated community of 5 homes)</li>
<li>Adjusting to having staff in my home most days</li>
<li>Adjusting to seeing the sun nearly every day! (A huge change compared to the lower mainland of BC where we originate from)</li>
<li>Cooler season in May/June/July</li>
<li>Hotter season in November/December/January</li>
</ul>
<div>
Now the poinsettia flowers are in bloom all over our yard, so I couldn't resist, I had to cut some and bring them inside to enjoy as well. We are also enjoying the ambiance of a fire in the evening time, so it is feeling a little bit like Christmas. Kind of strange, as we are aware of the improvement of weather at home (in BC) knowing they have just come through a very long gray winter. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It is also another reminder that there will be an absence of normal seasonal cues that help get us in the "mood" for the Christmas season. It will be different come December, that's for sure! Rather than bundling up and enjoying soups and hot cocoa, we will be turning on fans, stripping down, and craving iced coffees or smoothies.</div>
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<div>
I am thankful in the midst of all this change. I am learning how having an attitude of gratitude really makes all of the difference in the world. (Maybe more on that later.)</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-39709163433089392962012-05-07T07:00:00.000-07:002012-05-07T07:00:02.414-07:00Thankful For Another DayI am so thankful because my husband is alive. He was in a motorcycle accident on Friday afternoon, and we spent the afternoon in a nearby hospital in Antananarivo (the capital city of Madagascar). By God's grace, he suffered no broken bones or fractures, just a few scrapes and a sore chest. The doctors were concerned for a concussion because he was unconscious for a few minutes. However, he is resting and recuperating at home now. No concussion suffered.<br />
<br />
When I received the phone call on Friday afternoon about his accident, I was terrified. Having hardly any details of the accident, my mind began racing--and of course jumped to some of the worst possible scenarios. What will it be like married to a quadriplegic? Or, Is this it? Me and the kids will return to Canada, alone now. Of course, I am relieved and just so thankful that my silly conclusion-jumping never became my reality.<br />
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God is good, all the time.The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-39813712924734501762012-04-27T22:55:00.000-07:002012-04-27T22:55:38.985-07:00SeasonsThe season is changing around here. And my BC-bred body is somewhat ready for it. It has been strange to be in "summer"-land for so many months at one time. Where we're from, we might experience up to 2 months of warm sunny weather, interrupted by rains and cooler weather, and then back to rain, then cold, and more rain. A change in the seasons often means change in activities. At least it did in BC. The cold rainy season meant being house-bound, eating more soup, often sipping tea, reading more books, and (dare I say it) watching more TV! Or following the onset of nicer weather, drinking more smoothies, riding bikes, wearing flip-flops every chance you get, and often visiting parks to let the children run off energy! Here, the changes in activity may not be so drastic, as the weather outside might remain warmer than inside our house where there's no central heating system.<br />
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Our needs changed with the seasonal changes in the weather. </div>
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I would suggest the same is true during the seasons in our lives. Our needs will change as the season of our lives change. And right now, in the tedious days of mothering young children, who literally require constant supervision (except when they're sleeping, of course) it is a full season, and at times, a physically exhausting one. Right now, our needs as mothers of young children might include things like: Time in the Word, a good night's sleep, nutritious food, music.</div>
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This season may also include needs like this: (in no particular order)</div>
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<ul>
<li>At least one good relationship outside of the home</li>
<li>Having your hair done at the salon every couple of months</li>
<li>Going for walks with an MP3 player</li>
<li>Going shopping, <i>alone</i> every couple of weeks</li>
<li>Buying fancy coffee for yourself on the way to a park with your children</li>
<li>Taking a fitness class </li>
</ul>
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Despite the joys of motherhood, and the fullness of its days, I will be the first to admit that I struggle to remember that it <i>IS</i><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>just a season; to remember to enjoy the simpleness of these days. Right now my biggest problems might include another leaky diaper, a squabble over a toy, or ungratefulness over a meal. I am thankful that right now, I don't have to worry about the boy or girl pursuing my son or daughter, or vice-versa; the questionable friends my children persist in hanging out with, or becoming like; their lack of interest in church, or me wondering where my son is at 2am. Now, I don't want to suggest that these problems are inevitable, but they do exist for some mothers in the upcoming season of motherhood.</div>
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And so, I am thankful for these <i>simple days</i>. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvcWNnsKgVxeELo4zYeJ4vJfRwF0T6_zO9wTUXkPupDsx4uM6Mtp6xxm5s9QigMgoLxdc639Fu_caVIZCQhG4lOjyFV2ax-XiGCDIwpr06ymhT6ORdX0aCF5ski7oSba7CT1EvQ/s1600/DSC00808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvcWNnsKgVxeELo4zYeJ4vJfRwF0T6_zO9wTUXkPupDsx4uM6Mtp6xxm5s9QigMgoLxdc639Fu_caVIZCQhG4lOjyFV2ax-XiGCDIwpr06ymhT6ORdX0aCF5ski7oSba7CT1EvQ/s640/DSC00808.JPG" width="395" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faith turning 6 this month</td></tr>
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</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-58819465866928913462012-04-23T07:00:00.000-07:002012-04-23T07:00:04.692-07:00Field Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week I took the kids to the MAF Hangar to check out the changes happening there. They were thrilled to each have turns on the excavator daddy was driving. Brought back some memories from our own backyard too! :)<br />
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Here they are clearing a spot for another shipping container to rest and be used as additional storage. Soon another aircraft will be delivered and added to the MAF program in Madagascar.The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-18701072849711538762012-04-20T07:00:00.000-07:002012-04-20T07:00:22.031-07:00What We Have Read Aloud This YearOne of the main reasons I chose <a href="http://www.sonlight.com/" target="_blank">Sonlight</a> to use as my homeschool curriculum is because it gives large emphasis on reading aloud to your children. They have pulled together a wonderful selection of read-alouds that are rich literary classics.<br />
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Currently we are enjoying <i>The Wonderful Wizard of Oz</i>. Which I am actually thoroughly enjoying too. In fact, daddy read chapter 7 to the children after dinner the other night, and I couldn't help myself, cleaning up could wait, I had to stop and sit on the floor and listen too. If that doesn't surprise you, perhaps the fact that I haven't even seen the movie may?</div>
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In no particular order, I would like to share what we have read since beginning Kindergarten in September. It has been a rich 7 months so far, indeed.</div>
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<br /></div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-70814605134262350202012-04-18T07:00:00.001-07:002012-04-18T07:00:03.997-07:00A DayJust for the fun of it, I thought I would record the activity of a day in my life, a mommy of 4 in Madagascar. Perhaps you will be surprised at how boring this is. I'm not really sure. It was interesting for me though, to reflect back on a full day and see how much time was spent doing what... perhaps I need to look at time-management? :)<br />
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This was my day on Monday:<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">5:50 am Woke up 10 minutes before my alarm. Did hair, make-up, put coffee on, and started my quiet time and Bible study. Checked a blog or two; checked Facebook.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA">7:00 am Kids are up. Made and ate breakfast. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA">7:20 am Said Goodbye to Daddy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA">7:30 am My helper arrived. Gave her some instructions for the
morning and our day ahead. Prepared myself to leave for the Monday morning MAF
prayer meeting at the Hangar. Set up a tv show for the kids.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">8:00 am Drove to MAF Prayer Meeting at the Hangar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">8:45 am Returned home. Organized our day’s school work for
Faith to start. While the kids finished their show, I stripped my bed, quickly straightened girls’ room and Wesley’s
room, with Calvin in-tow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">9:00 am Received a call from Josh (our neighbor) asking me to
check on his house next door because his wife had to leave suddenly with their helper, and they have plumbers over
fixing their kitchen. He wanted me to help make sure the workers stayed in the kitchen. These same workers will also fix leak damage in my house
later. Found out their helper is having complications with her pregnancy. Praying.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA">9:15 am Scribbled a grocery list and quick dinner plan for
the week. Took meat out of the freezer to thaw for dinner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">9:20 am Started school with Faith and occupied the other
kids. Math, Social Studies, Science. Joyanne peed on the floor... <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">9:45 am I had some pineapple to eat </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span lang="EN-CA"> Contemplated eating the kids’ Easter bunnies – stopped myself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA">10:30 am Spelling with Faith<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">11:00 am Sent Faith upstairs to build Lego with Wesley. Worker
arrived at our house to fix the damage from the severe leak in Wesley’s
bedroom. Gave Calvin his bottle. Quickly
emailed our mailing address to friends and family. Quickly checked Facebook
again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">11:10 am Put Joyanne and Calvin in the stroller and did a few
laps around the compound while listening to “An Attitude of Gratitude” by Nancy
Leigh DeMoss.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">11:30 am Sorted out payment to the worker on behalf of Josh.
Made Calvin’s lunch and fed him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">11:45 am Put Calvin in his nap, and made lunch for me and the
other 3 kids.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">12:10 pm Lunch! P.B. & Jelly on buns, with puffed cheezies
(for them). Leftover pulled BBQ chicken on my bun (from last night’s supper).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">12:20 pm While eating lunch I tried researching mercury levels in
albacore tuna. Faith is apparently missing canned tuna. And I remember seeing
albacore canned tuna in Shoprite the other day. We also enjoyed leftover cakes
our guests brought us last night. Yum.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">12:40 pm Put kids in their quiet times; we also admired the
repair job in Wesley’s room. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">1:00 pm Emailing, started writing the weekly newsshare for
MAF. Drinking Coke, and playing piano!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">1:30 pm Worked on Ladies Bible Study homework. Enjoying the
quiet moments of the afternoon while each child is in their rooms resting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">2:30 pm Asked Wesley and Faith to clean up from their quiet
times. Calvin woke up and wanted his bottle. Rob popped in to pick up a tool
for work. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">3:00 pm Joyanne and Calvin went in the stroller for more laps
around the compound with me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">3:15 pm I asked Faith to read to me for a few minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">3:30 pm I chopped some potatoes for dinner. Wesley still hasn’t
cleaned up his room, therefore, he’s still in there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">4:00 pm Talked with Jocelyn for a bit by the litchi tree
about her helper who was taken to hospital today for pregnancy complications.
Praying.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">4:15 pm Wesley is still in his room refusing to clean up. I
am now praying hard to remain firm and consistent and not feel bad for him. The
other children and I are spending time outside. Playing on the swings and
riding in the stroller.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">4:30 pm Waiting for Rob to get home from work. Maybe he will
be able to motivate Wesley a bit better. Wesley came downstairs to show me a
car he built out of lego, rather than cleaning up. Oh well... back to his room. My helper left for the day now, making sure to say goodbye and hug each of the kids (that has become their routine, and they are really upset if they don't get to).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-CA">4:45 pm Fanja (our neighbor's helper) came to ask if I would like to buy <i>une poulet</i> this week. I said yes, of course! So I paid her for that.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">5:00 pm Found out Rob will be working late. Wesley is still
in his room refusing to clean up. I decide to finish making dinner. Our gardener knocked on the kitchen door asking for money to buy <i>des medicament</i> for my lawn which the crickets have almost destroyed. Gave it to him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">5:30 pm Wesley has come down a couple of times and I have
sent him back to his room to discover he still hasn’t put a single piece of
lego in the box. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">5:45 pm Rob arrives home. He speaks with Wesley. Dinner is
almost ready. One of the neighbor kids is in the house playing with Joyanne
nicely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">6:00 pm We are eating dinner, Wesley has joined us for
dinner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">6:30 pm I am clearing the table. Wesley is finally cleaning
his room (with daddy’s verbal motivation :) )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">7:00 pm We are starting the bedtime routine. Calvin is
drinking his bottle. I read Joyanne a book. Faith is in her bed reading her
Bible. Wesley is playing cars downstairs. I am quickly checking Facebook.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">7:20 pm I put Calvin to bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">7:30 pm Daddy is putting the other kiddos to bed, and I am
having a quick chat with my mother-in-law on Skype.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">8:00 pm Showered<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">8:30 pm In bed drinking hot chocolate watching tv, oh yeah...
and eating chips. Yikes! Surfing the web for cool printables for Faith to work on tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">9:20 pm Curled my hair for bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 70.9pt; text-indent: -70.9pt;">
<span lang="EN-CA">10:00 pm Lights Out. </span></div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-63524355177018630462012-04-16T07:00:00.000-07:002012-04-16T07:00:14.412-07:00JournalingI have always appreciated journaling; I began at a very young age. Journaling has continued throughout most of my life. The only downside of journaling for so many years is, "Where do I keep all of these precious notebooks?" or "Should I keep this any longer at all?"<br />
<br />
I have been able to spend some time once in a while flipping through pages of my journals, and they have become a tool of encouragement for me, and sometimes rebuke. I can see what God was teaching me and how He promised from His Word the grace or hope I needed in a particular situation. I can see how He convicted me of past sins, and I also realize if that same sin continues to be an issue in my life today! I can see how His Word provided the appropriate <i>food</i> I needed to give me strength for any given challenge, or even words of praise and worship to offer back to Him.<br />
<br />
I found this particular <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2009/06/journaling-as-spiritual-discipline-how/" target="_blank">blog post</a> really helpful in setting up my own spiritual journal, and thought I'd share the link if you haven't already found it on your own.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2009/06/journaling-as-spiritual-discipline-how/" target="_blank">Journaling As A Spiritual Discipline</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy Journaling.</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-50475791612688455002012-04-13T21:22:00.000-07:002012-04-14T09:37:56.717-07:00Grace<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Dark is the stain that we cannot hide: What can avail to wash it away?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Look! There is flowing a crimson tide--Whiter than snow you may be today.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Freely bestowed on all who believe!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You that are longing to see His face, you this moment His grace receive?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
---Julia H. Johnston</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I can do nothing to change my spiritual position in Christ. It is Christ's blood, on my behalf, that washes me whiter than snow. Changing my eternal destiny (what I deserve) from eternal punishment, to exactly where I don't----eternal glory with the Father in the Heaven.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
---Ephesians 2:8-9</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In my fallen, sinful condition, God would have been just to allow me to suffer the consequences of my sinful nature---That consequence being His wrath for all eternity. It would have made sense. But He did just the opposite!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And you (mankind)</i> <i><b>dead in the trespasses and sins</b> which you once walked .... and were by nature children of wrath. .... But God being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ, ... so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
---Ephesians 2:1-7</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, why didn't God do what would have made sense? He had a bigger idea. God saved us for His purposes. In this lifetime, on earth, God wants to demonstrate His grace poured out in our lives. As we are going about our day to day, experiencing the ups and downs of parenthood perhaps, in our marriage relationship, in ministry---wherever God has us. The only way we can live, is by His grace. His grace is power on earth to face our circumstances with courage and to respond in obedience to His Word.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation <b>he will also provide the way of escape</b>, that you may be able to endure it.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
---1 Corinthians 10:13</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But what about when we fail? When the temptation does overtake us? It is God's grace that convicts our hearts when we sin, and causes us to return to Him---His grace gives us the desire to confess our sins. There is no lack of grace; God does not run out.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
---2 Corinthians 9:8</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-4171182451923233052012-04-12T09:59:00.000-07:002012-04-12T09:59:44.401-07:00Marbled Loaf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_mIJGFIwokMuI8Esuhm5nNxWOCW-goExO8D1tPBFSJIxQfs-Ju076SoXlAPGKseM9iJWlIo9Z07USTtJv767B86_IdbdqufewoBe6DiWNk8Eziui9mfKrYzbXWpAPSAVOD1tUA/s1600/IMG_2367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_mIJGFIwokMuI8Esuhm5nNxWOCW-goExO8D1tPBFSJIxQfs-Ju076SoXlAPGKseM9iJWlIo9Z07USTtJv767B86_IdbdqufewoBe6DiWNk8Eziui9mfKrYzbXWpAPSAVOD1tUA/s640/IMG_2367.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Marbled Loaf</b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
3 to 3 1/2 Cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 pkg active dry yeast<br />
1 1/2 Cups milk<br />
2 TB Sugar<br />
2 TB Cooking Oil<br />
11/2 tsp Salt<br />
2 TB dark-flavored molasses<br />
1 1/4 Cups rye flour or whole wheat flour<br />
<br />
1. In a large mixing bowl combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and yeast. Heat milk, sugar, oil and salt just until warm in a microwave or on the stovetop. Add milk mixture to flour mixture. Beat well. Scraping the bowl often. Beat on high speed (in an electric mixer) for 3 minutes.<br />
<br />
2. Divide batter in half (take out approximately 1 Cup of batter). To the 1st portion of batter add remaining all-purpose flour (1 to 1 1/2 Cups). Turn dough onto floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes. The dough should be moderately stiff and elastic. Shape into a ball and place in a greased bowl, turning the dough once to grease the top of the ball. Cover and place in a warm spot to rise.<br />
<br />
3. To the other portion of batter add molasses and rye flour (or whole wheat flour). Knead dough again for about 6-8 minutes. Let rise in a greased bowl in a warm spot.<br />
<br />
4. After 1st rise (approximately 1 hour, or until doubled), turn each ball out onto a floured surface and roll into two rectangles about 12x8 inches. Place dark rectangle on top of white one and roll into a log. Place in a greased or parchment lined loaf pan (8x4x2inch). Cover and let rise for about 40 minutes to an hour.<br />
<br />
5. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 30 to 35 minutes. If the loaf is browning too much on top part way through the cooking time, cover with tin foil to keep the loaf from over-browning.<br />
<br />
6. Immediately remove from pan and allow to cool completely before slicing.<br />
<br />
We love this loaf! The sweetness of the molasses is a nice treat, and the swirl in the middle of the bread surprised my kids!<br />
<br />
Happy Baking.The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-60913107576221818352012-04-04T21:16:00.000-07:002012-04-12T10:01:03.280-07:00Without Words<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>The heavens
declare the glory of God;<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>The skies
proclaim the work of his hands,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>Day after day they pour forth speech;<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>Night after
night they display knowledge.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>There is no
speech or language<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>Where their
voice is not heard.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>Their voice
goes out into all the earth,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>Their words
to the ends of the world.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><i>Psalm
19:1-4</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37108076.post-73182758192958153612012-04-02T07:00:00.000-07:002012-04-02T07:00:12.599-07:00Smiles & Picnics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yesterday we went for a picnic</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAQmOP3f6wk-bQ-lU2yy3m_s2KkgJwmJ3_5yMTNDLl3NVYL9tRNkn21BuCBufEShfq9Hc63T5LFS6OoSHsq9f0D7Kx0AtkRU7dhJ4ju1j2pXmR4rsOfIvzJqNKuVJ4t-iOSlCT7g/s1600/DSC00690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAQmOP3f6wk-bQ-lU2yy3m_s2KkgJwmJ3_5yMTNDLl3NVYL9tRNkn21BuCBufEShfq9Hc63T5LFS6OoSHsq9f0D7Kx0AtkRU7dhJ4ju1j2pXmR4rsOfIvzJqNKuVJ4t-iOSlCT7g/s1600/DSC00690.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Need I say more?</div>The Barbershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17128229197197847901noreply@blogger.com0