As suggested, I put the Coal Road 4WD Jeep Trail Links for the college groups in the right sidebar.
There is a search bar, but apparently it doesn't show or is hard to find on some screens. This should solve the issues we've experienced and cut down on emails.
Remember, Coal Road is closed right now. I think I mention the dates it closes and opens in the links, or it might be on the signs in the pictures.
Thanks for the helpful idea and for helping me figure out the issue, Sarah!
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Keep Moving Forward
“If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
Sister Time
Hannah was happy to see Amanda home,
so she jumped in her lap for some snuggle time.
Amanda rocked her until she fell asleep.
Sweetness abounds!
Amanda rocked her until she fell asleep.
Sweetness abounds!
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
It Sounds Like Mama Mama Mama Mama
I earned the new geese's trust and now they love me.
As soon as they see or hear me, it sounds like "MAMA! MAMA! MAMA! MAMA!" as they call to me and run across the field to get to me as fast as they can.
It's a sweet and joyful moment
...except when I forget and walk outside to enjoy some sunshine
...while on the phone!
Monday, January 28, 2019
New Lathe Chuck
In the fall, Clint and I found a Shopsmith in a local thrift store with all of its original paperwork and many parts. It also had several years' worth of woodworking magazines neatly contained in three ring binders. I checked online and learned the Shopsmith's price was below the current market value.
We immediately texted Caleb, who had just clocked out of his second job, and let him know. He wanted us to hold it until he could get there and look it over. We asked the store manager if she would hold it until he arrived in an hour explaining he was a young man acquiring woodworking tools. She smiled, pulled the tag off of it, and told us we had an hour. During that time period, four different men came to look at it!
Caleb arrived, looked it over, and stated he wanted it. He had already gone to the bank and withdrew the money to pay for it. The store was having a 20% off clearance on furniture and had included the Shopsmith in it because it was taking up so much room. Then, we found a 10% off promotional flyer by the door. We ended up paying half of the final cost and calling it an early Christmas present. Caleb paid the other half.
As we were taking it apart to load into our trucks, a fifth man came to us and told Caleb he would have purchased it if Caleb didn't. He told Caleb he had a very nice tool and explained some of the things it could do. Then, he wished him the best in his future as a woodworker.
Caleb's been enjoying it ever since! He just purchased a refurbished lathe chuck for it. This holds the wood in the lathe while it turns. I am looking forward to seeing what he makes next.
Sunday, January 27, 2019
The Real Team I Am On
We love supporting our long time family friends' children, aka young family friends, in sports in the different high schools and colleges they represent! It gets kind of hard when two of our younger friends are on opposing teams. So please take team mentions whether here, or on FB, or in person with a grain of salt.
I never want to offend anyone over something as insignificant to eternity as a sporting team. It's people (souls) that matter. If showing support for your team and listening to you talk about them is the way you enjoy me showing love to you, then I am all for supporting your team. YOU matter to me. That means your interests matter too.
I apologize to any who were offended by the post I made. I took it down. I did not recall that I had friends on both teams.
Note: I have seven children. I can't keep up with them and all of their interests and all of you and your interests too. I do make an effort, but it is a very flawed effort.
-Miss Wendy/Aunt Wendy/Miyagi/TheDaringEmmDubya/whatever you call me
I never want to offend anyone over something as insignificant to eternity as a sporting team. It's people (souls) that matter. If showing support for your team and listening to you talk about them is the way you enjoy me showing love to you, then I am all for supporting your team. YOU matter to me. That means your interests matter too.
I apologize to any who were offended by the post I made. I took it down. I did not recall that I had friends on both teams.
Note: I have seven children. I can't keep up with them and all of their interests and all of you and your interests too. I do make an effort, but it is a very flawed effort.
-Miss Wendy/Aunt Wendy/Miyagi/TheDaringEmmDubya/whatever you call me
Stay Green
"But the godly will flourish like palm trees
and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon.
For they are transplanted to the Lord's own house.
They flourish in the courts of our God.
Even in old age they will still produce fruit;
they will remain vital and green.
They will declare,
'The Lord is just!
He is my rock!
There is no evil in him!'"
-Psalm 92:12-15
and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon.
For they are transplanted to the Lord's own house.
They flourish in the courts of our God.
Even in old age they will still produce fruit;
they will remain vital and green.
They will declare,
'The Lord is just!
He is my rock!
There is no evil in him!'"
-Psalm 92:12-15
Lord willing, I will stay vital and green and produce fruit even in old age. I will lay down my desires for His and try to glorify Him with all of my choices. I will shine for Him in the darkest places and show love to all people. I am praying you will too!
Friday, January 25, 2019
More Changes Happened Today...
Amanda has a good thing going on and asked us to pray with her about a decision in that area. I can't share more, but it's exciting!
Caleb began his second semester of college today. He maintained an 4.0 average in his first. Working three jobs*, helping out around the farm, making time for his family and friends, I feel he has done an excellent job! The engineering problems were challenging, but he aced them! We are very proud of him.
Bethany was enrolled in her Driver's Ed course. We timed it so she will finish it right around the time she is able to take her test for her learner's permit. Here is the letter Clint sent her with her log in information:
Bethany,
Caleb began his second semester of college today. He maintained an 4.0 average in his first. Working three jobs*, helping out around the farm, making time for his family and friends, I feel he has done an excellent job! The engineering problems were challenging, but he aced them! We are very proud of him.
Bethany was enrolled in her Driver's Ed course. We timed it so she will finish it right around the time she is able to take her test for her learner's permit. Here is the letter Clint sent her with her log in information:
Bethany,
Here is the login and password for your classroom driving course. Please be diligent, and really take the time to learn the material. Driving is no joke, and it is imperative that you know and follow the rules. Your family loves you and does not want to see you hurt. I know you will do well.
We love you!!
Dad & Mom
*Caleb only works two of those jobs now, but he worked three for most of his first semester.
The Opossum
“If you don't love animals, you'll never love the wild.”
―
We let it go.
It is obviously healthy and isn't causing any problems.
I'm not going to cuddle up with an opossum, but I am not afraid of them either.
In fact, I prefer having an opossum in my yard and garden!
3. They Are Immune to Rabies.
Unlike most other mammals, opossums don’t contract or spread rabies. Their body temperature is slightly lower than that of other mammals, and the virus can’t take hold.
2. Opossums Eat Venomous Snakes.
Snakes don’t stand a chance if there are opossums around. Opossums eat snakes, including venomous ones. In fact, they are generally immune to the effects of snake venom.
Snakes don’t stand a chance if there are opossums around. Opossums eat snakes, including venomous ones. In fact, they are generally immune to the effects of snake venom.
1. Opossums Destroy Ticks.
Opossums are masters at destroying ticks. This is because they are very fastidious animals, constantly grooming themselves and removing (and eating) parasites like ticks. One opossum can take out around 5,000 ticks each year. That alone makes them worth having around!" Read more at: 10 Reasons to Love Opossums
Opossums are masters at destroying ticks. This is because they are very fastidious animals, constantly grooming themselves and removing (and eating) parasites like ticks. One opossum can take out around 5,000 ticks each year. That alone makes them worth having around!" Read more at: 10 Reasons to Love Opossums
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
You can be sure
You can be sure, the Holy Spirit never enters a man and lets him live like the world. -A.W. Tozer
Monday, January 21, 2019
Weekends Away
This is what many of our weekends away look like now.
It's stuff we enjoy doing, and it is blessing many.
Sunday, January 20, 2019
Your hereafter...
is based on what you are after here.
Whatever a man depends upon, whatever rules his mind, whatever is the chief object of his delight, is his god - Spurgeon
Whatever a man depends upon, whatever rules his mind, whatever is the chief object of his delight, is his god - Spurgeon
Saturday, January 19, 2019
Friday, January 18, 2019
Family Calendar
Since our two youngest boys started working, we implemented a family calendar. It helps us know where everyone is in case of emergency and so we can watch out for each other.
Caleb came to me earlier this month. His manner was very serious. "Mom, Joshua's schedule says he was to leave work at 11. It's been two hours, and he is not home." I read the underlying message loud and clear: "I'm concerned. Find my brother."
Joshua had entered his schedule into the calendar incorrectly. He corrected it when he arrived at work, but he turned his phone off before the change was implemented. So, our phones did not update until after he got off work and turned his phone on again. We called his boss and learned what happened, so we didn't have to worry for long.
It made my heart warm to know Caleb was looking out for his brother though.
Caleb came to me earlier this month. His manner was very serious. "Mom, Joshua's schedule says he was to leave work at 11. It's been two hours, and he is not home." I read the underlying message loud and clear: "I'm concerned. Find my brother."
Joshua had entered his schedule into the calendar incorrectly. He corrected it when he arrived at work, but he turned his phone off before the change was implemented. So, our phones did not update until after he got off work and turned his phone on again. We called his boss and learned what happened, so we didn't have to worry for long.
It made my heart warm to know Caleb was looking out for his brother though.
Thursday, January 17, 2019
Large Family Table Solution
I know of one family that purchased an outdoor picnic table that came with benches. They stained the tops a dark color and put on several coats of poly. They painted the bottoms white. It looked a lot nicer than I had imagined. They put chairs they bought second hand at the ends. It was cheaper than a new dining room table, and it was built to last. They thought out of the box to accomplish their goal. I like it for that reason!
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
A Few of Our Laundry Solutions
Emily told me a couple of years ago that the only thing she did not like about having a large family was putting her initials on her clothes. We do that to make sorting easier while folding them. It tells us quickly which pile to put the clothes so they get to the correct bedroom.
To tame the laundry monster, we do two super sized loads of laundry every week day. This keeps our laundry in check. I hang my clothes inside near the wood stove or outside on the clothesline which really saves on the electric bill. I have two washing machines instead of a dryer. That cuts down on the amount of time I spend dealing with laundry.
We use terry bathrobes to cut down on towel use. Every member of the family has their own bathrobe. Since they are only worn only very briefly immediately after a shower, they are washed once a week. Using the robes not only cuts down on laundry loads, but it has saved us money since we are not having to wash and replace towels as frequently.
Since starting their jobs, Joshua and Caleb have been doing their own laundry. This protects their work uniforms from becoming lost in the laundry shuffle. It also helps prepare them for living on their own.
Socks were a challenge until I stopped buying them one package at a time. I learned it was more cost effective and easier to manage if I purchased a few packages of the same kinds of socks for a family member. I tried to keep everyone's socks a little different. When I couldn't tell the difference easily, I marked the base of the foot with their initial. My two middle boys could wear the same sized socks most of the time. Emily and Hannah have been like that too. That helped with the sorting a little. Now, everyone in the family can wear the same size socks. Granted, Hannah's feet are a bit small for adult sized socks, but she insists on not being left out. She has appropriate sized socks, but she will grab from the "family sock" bin so she can be included with the rest of us.
Over the last couple of years, I have purchased about 25 packages of 5 Dickies socks in black. Walmart often has a bundle deal which allows me to get them for $7.50ish a pack. These have been very durable compared to the other brands we have used in the past. I have only thrown away one of those socks so far. I only see a few with tiny holes in them.
"You wear men's socks?!!" Yes, I do. I got tired of dealing with the higher priced but inferior quality of socks we women have to deal with in the box stores. I personally prefer men's socks over ladies socks because they are thicker, more durable, and keep my feet warmer on these beautiful hardwood floors. They hold up better to the activities I enjoy like hiking, camping, etc. I also wear men's sweatpants in the winter because they are less expensive, more durable, thicker and warmer..and, busy moms, the clencher for me was....they have pockets!!
I had my children help me sort, wash, hang, fold, and put away clothes as a younger mother. This way, I could teach them the correct way through repetition. As they grew, they were able to take over the chore as needed. We have had some surprisingly deep conversations while folding laundry. Of course, we've also had some rowdy games of "sock ball."
Laundry in a large family is a frustrating issue sometimes, but it can be made more manageable if you look at the problem areas and try to find solutions. If something isn't working for you, try something else. If your children are loved, healthy, well cared for, but the laundry is out of control, it's OK. You have your priorities right. Keep looking for ways to improve and know it will get easier as the children grow.
To tame the laundry monster, we do two super sized loads of laundry every week day. This keeps our laundry in check. I hang my clothes inside near the wood stove or outside on the clothesline which really saves on the electric bill. I have two washing machines instead of a dryer. That cuts down on the amount of time I spend dealing with laundry.
We use terry bathrobes to cut down on towel use. Every member of the family has their own bathrobe. Since they are only worn only very briefly immediately after a shower, they are washed once a week. Using the robes not only cuts down on laundry loads, but it has saved us money since we are not having to wash and replace towels as frequently.
Since starting their jobs, Joshua and Caleb have been doing their own laundry. This protects their work uniforms from becoming lost in the laundry shuffle. It also helps prepare them for living on their own.
Socks were a challenge until I stopped buying them one package at a time. I learned it was more cost effective and easier to manage if I purchased a few packages of the same kinds of socks for a family member. I tried to keep everyone's socks a little different. When I couldn't tell the difference easily, I marked the base of the foot with their initial. My two middle boys could wear the same sized socks most of the time. Emily and Hannah have been like that too. That helped with the sorting a little. Now, everyone in the family can wear the same size socks. Granted, Hannah's feet are a bit small for adult sized socks, but she insists on not being left out. She has appropriate sized socks, but she will grab from the "family sock" bin so she can be included with the rest of us.
Over the last couple of years, I have purchased about 25 packages of 5 Dickies socks in black. Walmart often has a bundle deal which allows me to get them for $7.50ish a pack. These have been very durable compared to the other brands we have used in the past. I have only thrown away one of those socks so far. I only see a few with tiny holes in them.
"You wear men's socks?!!" Yes, I do. I got tired of dealing with the higher priced but inferior quality of socks we women have to deal with in the box stores. I personally prefer men's socks over ladies socks because they are thicker, more durable, and keep my feet warmer on these beautiful hardwood floors. They hold up better to the activities I enjoy like hiking, camping, etc. I also wear men's sweatpants in the winter because they are less expensive, more durable, thicker and warmer..and, busy moms, the clencher for me was....they have pockets!!
I had my children help me sort, wash, hang, fold, and put away clothes as a younger mother. This way, I could teach them the correct way through repetition. As they grew, they were able to take over the chore as needed. We have had some surprisingly deep conversations while folding laundry. Of course, we've also had some rowdy games of "sock ball."
Laundry in a large family is a frustrating issue sometimes, but it can be made more manageable if you look at the problem areas and try to find solutions. If something isn't working for you, try something else. If your children are loved, healthy, well cared for, but the laundry is out of control, it's OK. You have your priorities right. Keep looking for ways to improve and know it will get easier as the children grow.
Tuesday, January 15, 2019
Seek Knowledge
Seek not to grow in knowledge chiefly for the sake of applause and to enable you to dispute with others; but seek it for the benefit of your souls. -Jonathan Edwards
Monday, January 14, 2019
Gift from Clint's Men
This was a Christmas gift from the men Clint oversees. I did think of a use for this uniquely shaped bottle. It kind of ties in with a Christmas present we gave. I may give it to Amanda or Bethany if they want to tackle the craft and give the gift. We will see how it goes.
Sunday, January 13, 2019
Choose: Admiration or Persecution
Christians are not so much in danger when they are persecuted as when they are admired. -Charles Spurgeon
When Christians are admired, they may assume they are living well and stop working to grow closer to Christ. They may not realize their pride issues. When Christians are admired, they stop praying and seeking God's help.
When they are persecuted, they are calling upon God continuously. To die is gain for the Christian because it places us in the presence of the Lord. It's not about what happens to our body, but our soul that matters.
Luke 6:26 Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets
Psalms 10:4 In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.
When Christians are admired, they may assume they are living well and stop working to grow closer to Christ. They may not realize their pride issues. When Christians are admired, they stop praying and seeking God's help.
When they are persecuted, they are calling upon God continuously. To die is gain for the Christian because it places us in the presence of the Lord. It's not about what happens to our body, but our soul that matters.
Luke 6:26 Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets
Psalms 10:4 In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.
Saturday, January 12, 2019
Around Here 2019
Clint and I have been taking more frequent long weekends away. We head out again and will not return until Tuesday. I love being able to minister to others! While we are away, Brandon is going to come home to spend the night with his siblings. We do not have internet or reliable cell service where we go, so we always coordinate with him and Amanda to make sure things go smoothly.
There have been major equipment issues where Clint works that have affected contracts. A critical machine was down and the "big boss" came in to help. Clint was able to share with him some ideas he'd like to implement that had been ignored by others. This boss listened to Clint, likes the ideas, and wants to proceed.
Brandon purchased a Mustang and may try to sell his Jeep. He is on the fence about fixing or selling the Jeep. He has two beehives doing very well this winter in his gazebo. I may give him my hive to care for next spring since I will not be home as often as I thought. We often help each other out with gardening, etc.
Amanda is working and enjoying home ownership. She works nights and that life isn't easy, but she is managing it well. Her power bill was through the roof, higher than ours or Brandon's, but we learned her heat pump was running too often due to uneven distribution of heat in her house. She has a implemented the use of a fan to see if that helps.
Joshua is enjoying his job and has saved almost all of his earnings to date. He is a huge help to me and makes sure I take care of myself. He is doing very well in his college courses. He is either working, working on his college, or playing computer games usually while Brandon is also online.
Caleb is getting the hang of his second job as maintenance man at the restaurant where he also works in the kitchen. His employer has praised him over and over. He has to replace a light bulb on a sign recently and asked Clint to go with him to help watch over his safety. He also borrowed Clint's ladder to save his boss from having to buy one.
Bethany received a lot of art materials for Christmas and has been enjoying them. We have not started her driving instruction yet because we do not want her to complete it too far ahead of when she takes the written test. She has been getting in some driving practice on our farm. We also have not started her college courses yet. She is enjoying the break and using the time to pray about her future.
Emily and Hannah have started back to school. They are pretty much self taught at this point following the Switched on Schoolhouse program. I grade their work once every week or two and go over anything that has them confused. They love the new gaming computers they received for Christmas. Sometimes their brothers take a bit of time to play with them to help them out in Mine Craft which makes it more fun for the girls.
Me? There were a lot of changes in our family last year. Changes beget more changes, but that keeps life from becoming boring. I am looking for ways to adapt our resources for better stewardship. I have a business I had stopped that I am starting back up again. There is the project we have underway. I am also going to pack up our "guest RV" and sell it. It needs some work and I'd rather put the time into other ventures. After I sell that, I plan to take a building and make a tiny guest suite/craft area/office in it. So, I am cleaning out our other buildings so I can empty out the one, if that make sense. I am also toying around with the idea of having a space made for an RV so we can have a live in spring/summer farm hand. Life is very full! As soon as I get home from a long weekend, I am playing "catch up." It's all good things!! I am often eager for bedtime, but I also look forward to the new day.
There have been major equipment issues where Clint works that have affected contracts. A critical machine was down and the "big boss" came in to help. Clint was able to share with him some ideas he'd like to implement that had been ignored by others. This boss listened to Clint, likes the ideas, and wants to proceed.
Brandon purchased a Mustang and may try to sell his Jeep. He is on the fence about fixing or selling the Jeep. He has two beehives doing very well this winter in his gazebo. I may give him my hive to care for next spring since I will not be home as often as I thought. We often help each other out with gardening, etc.
Amanda is working and enjoying home ownership. She works nights and that life isn't easy, but she is managing it well. Her power bill was through the roof, higher than ours or Brandon's, but we learned her heat pump was running too often due to uneven distribution of heat in her house. She has a implemented the use of a fan to see if that helps.
Joshua is enjoying his job and has saved almost all of his earnings to date. He is a huge help to me and makes sure I take care of myself. He is doing very well in his college courses. He is either working, working on his college, or playing computer games usually while Brandon is also online.
Caleb is getting the hang of his second job as maintenance man at the restaurant where he also works in the kitchen. His employer has praised him over and over. He has to replace a light bulb on a sign recently and asked Clint to go with him to help watch over his safety. He also borrowed Clint's ladder to save his boss from having to buy one.
Bethany received a lot of art materials for Christmas and has been enjoying them. We have not started her driving instruction yet because we do not want her to complete it too far ahead of when she takes the written test. She has been getting in some driving practice on our farm. We also have not started her college courses yet. She is enjoying the break and using the time to pray about her future.
Emily and Hannah have started back to school. They are pretty much self taught at this point following the Switched on Schoolhouse program. I grade their work once every week or two and go over anything that has them confused. They love the new gaming computers they received for Christmas. Sometimes their brothers take a bit of time to play with them to help them out in Mine Craft which makes it more fun for the girls.
Me? There were a lot of changes in our family last year. Changes beget more changes, but that keeps life from becoming boring. I am looking for ways to adapt our resources for better stewardship. I have a business I had stopped that I am starting back up again. There is the project we have underway. I am also going to pack up our "guest RV" and sell it. It needs some work and I'd rather put the time into other ventures. After I sell that, I plan to take a building and make a tiny guest suite/craft area/office in it. So, I am cleaning out our other buildings so I can empty out the one, if that make sense. I am also toying around with the idea of having a space made for an RV so we can have a live in spring/summer farm hand. Life is very full! As soon as I get home from a long weekend, I am playing "catch up." It's all good things!! I am often eager for bedtime, but I also look forward to the new day.
Psalm 119:45
I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts.
Friday, January 11, 2019
Saving Money on Pets
Recently, a friend was discussing how she was going to have to give up her three large dogs because she could not afford to care for them. I nearly fell over when I heard the charges of the office visits, shots, flea control, nail trimmings, grooming, etc! I encouraged her to keep her pets and find ways to cut back on expenses for their care. I shared with her some of the things I do. Some of those she felt she could handle, and it will help cut her costs by quite a bit. Her pets get to stay!
I live on a farm with many animals and have been taught by caring vets, other farmers, internet websites, and online videos how to take care of my animals on a budget.
Rabies shots: In order to obey the rabies law, we take our dogs to a seasonal rabies clinic and pay $20 a dog for the shot. There is no office visit which drastically cuts down costs. Tractor Supply holds ours.
Other Shots: I purchase and give the other shots myself. If I am purchasing a large quantity, I buy them in bulk and have them overnight-ed on ice which is the same way vets get them. I read nursing textbooks and a vet textbook and pretty much taught myself how to give injections after some instruction from a nurse while I was an OB patient. All of the shots I need to give on my farm are are IM (in the muscle) or SQ (under the skin).
Worming: I use pasture rotation, good sanitation, herbs, and a rotation of vermicides. I do not need a lot of chemical wormers because of the first few things. I purchase an off brand I need on sale from livestock supply companies. I carefully calculate weight based dosages. I can do my own fecal tests with a microscope. I also make my own float solution.
Flea Control: For flea control, we get active at the FIRST flea we see. We do not wait until it is a big problem. We bathe them more often, focus on good housekeeping, use an insect growth hormone (IGR) spray, and permethrin spray. Both of those come in a concentrate that we mix and spray. We also use beneficial nematodes sprayed on our lawn to kill fleas. I have used salt on our hardwood floors (with no ill affects to the sealed wood) to kill fleas. I just don't like doing it because it takes a few days, but it's cheap and worked great for us. Again, we start controlling them before they become a problem, so we don't get a problem. I do not put chemicals on my dogs skin because of the link to health issues.
We have also used guineas for flea control. They did a FANTASTIC job. We did not see a single flea while we had them. We kept them until they started walking half a mile down the road to visit our neighbors. There were 40 birds, so it was something to see them marching down the road! LOL!
Illnesses: This has to be done with caution, knowledge, and wisdom. I've learned a lot about treating illnesses in animals, but I always, always, always research and check my notes again before I give them anything. Some things we humans use, they can use. Something we use are poisons to them because of how they metabolize them. I've used allopathic, homeopathic, and herbal remedies in our pets and livestock. There is a difference between therapeutic and acute dosages. You don't treat an illness with a therapeutic dosage because it will most likely be too low to do any good.
I am currently treating our older cat with a homeopathic pain reliever called Traumeel that is giving her more mobility and a better quality of life.
This is not advice. It is me sharing what I have done that worked very well in my life. I was motivated to learn and understood the risks. I pursued the education I wanted and received it through the alternative doors that were opened to me. I have maintained an attitude of learning, meaning I realize I do not know it all, and seek help when necessary. I spent a great deal of time and built on what I learned over the years. When something stops working as well, I go hunt down another solution. God blessed my efforts and allowed me to develop a skill set that has been very useful and has saved us a small fortune.
There is more that I do to keep our animals healthy and more ways I save money than what you read here, but this should get those interested started in educating themselves. Your best resources are vets and farmers who trust in your ability and are willing to share information.
We pay less on vet care for our entire farm than many people do for two or three dogs. We currently have about 75 critters. The number changes with births and sales.
I live on a farm with many animals and have been taught by caring vets, other farmers, internet websites, and online videos how to take care of my animals on a budget.
Rabies shots: In order to obey the rabies law, we take our dogs to a seasonal rabies clinic and pay $20 a dog for the shot. There is no office visit which drastically cuts down costs. Tractor Supply holds ours.
Other Shots: I purchase and give the other shots myself. If I am purchasing a large quantity, I buy them in bulk and have them overnight-ed on ice which is the same way vets get them. I read nursing textbooks and a vet textbook and pretty much taught myself how to give injections after some instruction from a nurse while I was an OB patient. All of the shots I need to give on my farm are are IM (in the muscle) or SQ (under the skin).
Worming: I use pasture rotation, good sanitation, herbs, and a rotation of vermicides. I do not need a lot of chemical wormers because of the first few things. I purchase an off brand I need on sale from livestock supply companies. I carefully calculate weight based dosages. I can do my own fecal tests with a microscope. I also make my own float solution.
Flea Control: For flea control, we get active at the FIRST flea we see. We do not wait until it is a big problem. We bathe them more often, focus on good housekeeping, use an insect growth hormone (IGR) spray, and permethrin spray. Both of those come in a concentrate that we mix and spray. We also use beneficial nematodes sprayed on our lawn to kill fleas. I have used salt on our hardwood floors (with no ill affects to the sealed wood) to kill fleas. I just don't like doing it because it takes a few days, but it's cheap and worked great for us. Again, we start controlling them before they become a problem, so we don't get a problem. I do not put chemicals on my dogs skin because of the link to health issues.
We have also used guineas for flea control. They did a FANTASTIC job. We did not see a single flea while we had them. We kept them until they started walking half a mile down the road to visit our neighbors. There were 40 birds, so it was something to see them marching down the road! LOL!
Illnesses: This has to be done with caution, knowledge, and wisdom. I've learned a lot about treating illnesses in animals, but I always, always, always research and check my notes again before I give them anything. Some things we humans use, they can use. Something we use are poisons to them because of how they metabolize them. I've used allopathic, homeopathic, and herbal remedies in our pets and livestock. There is a difference between therapeutic and acute dosages. You don't treat an illness with a therapeutic dosage because it will most likely be too low to do any good.
I am currently treating our older cat with a homeopathic pain reliever called Traumeel that is giving her more mobility and a better quality of life.
This is not advice. It is me sharing what I have done that worked very well in my life. I was motivated to learn and understood the risks. I pursued the education I wanted and received it through the alternative doors that were opened to me. I have maintained an attitude of learning, meaning I realize I do not know it all, and seek help when necessary. I spent a great deal of time and built on what I learned over the years. When something stops working as well, I go hunt down another solution. God blessed my efforts and allowed me to develop a skill set that has been very useful and has saved us a small fortune.
There is more that I do to keep our animals healthy and more ways I save money than what you read here, but this should get those interested started in educating themselves. Your best resources are vets and farmers who trust in your ability and are willing to share information.
We pay less on vet care for our entire farm than many people do for two or three dogs. We currently have about 75 critters. The number changes with births and sales.
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Gift by Caleb
This is another woodworking gift Caleb made. He gave this to Joshua.
Clint and I thought it came from a store because it looks so nice.
He did a great job!
He did a great job!
Fallout is a game the brothers play together.
Wednesday, January 09, 2019
Star
Normally, a cross leaves a shadow on the face of this church.
Around Christmas, they change it to a star.
Tuesday, January 08, 2019
Friday, January 04, 2019
Bored Being Off Your Feet? On Bed Rest? Here's Some Encouragement
I shared this with a friend who was struggling with being off her feet for several weeks while her leg healed:
I spent most (8 months at a time) of my pregnancies on bed rest. I have been pregnant 14 times with 16 children but only 7 are living. That's a lot of down time when added up. I found comfort when I stopped thinking about what I couldn't do and started finding things I could. I learned html, built a family web page, opened an online store through eBay, and completed a medicinal herbalist course during one pregnancy. I didn't do the best at everything because I was very ill, but at least I was busy and learning as able. I read college textbooks on things that interested me like psychology, history, art, literature, science, and nursing. I made Christmas presents through sewing, painting, and etc. I also used my bed rest times to grow closer to the Lord through Bible studies. I couldn't do a lot of activity on my feet, but I could do gentle exercises in bed with my arms and legs. I set out to learn to crochet during my last pregnancy, but when I lost my baby, I lost my heart for it. It's still boxed up waiting for a grandchild. I've studies foreign languages including sign language. I also started a card ministry during one of my pregnancies. I reached out to hurting people and tried to make their day brighter. When you put your mind to it, I am sure you can find plenty of things to keep yourself occupied. I also found that every "down time" the Lord gave me had a purpose and was a time of spiritual and intellectual growth. There are no wasted moments with the Lord.
I spent most (8 months at a time) of my pregnancies on bed rest. I have been pregnant 14 times with 16 children but only 7 are living. That's a lot of down time when added up. I found comfort when I stopped thinking about what I couldn't do and started finding things I could. I learned html, built a family web page, opened an online store through eBay, and completed a medicinal herbalist course during one pregnancy. I didn't do the best at everything because I was very ill, but at least I was busy and learning as able. I read college textbooks on things that interested me like psychology, history, art, literature, science, and nursing. I made Christmas presents through sewing, painting, and etc. I also used my bed rest times to grow closer to the Lord through Bible studies. I couldn't do a lot of activity on my feet, but I could do gentle exercises in bed with my arms and legs. I set out to learn to crochet during my last pregnancy, but when I lost my baby, I lost my heart for it. It's still boxed up waiting for a grandchild. I've studies foreign languages including sign language. I also started a card ministry during one of my pregnancies. I reached out to hurting people and tried to make their day brighter. When you put your mind to it, I am sure you can find plenty of things to keep yourself occupied. I also found that every "down time" the Lord gave me had a purpose and was a time of spiritual and intellectual growth. There are no wasted moments with the Lord.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
Thursday, January 03, 2019
Dreaming of Spring and a New Bike
We like hiking, camping, and backpacking and have plenty of quality, lightweight gear for those activities. And, I mean like enough gear to outfit a dozen people. We've been gathering equipment for 30 years!
We have friends who bikepack and have met other bikepackers while camping. We shared our food, firewood, etc and helped dispose of trash for the weary mountain bikepackers we have come across.
Bikepacking is basically camping through an area on a bike. We like bikes; we like camping! It's close to what we already do, so we think it would be a good extension and a new way to explore as a couple.
In looking for equipment, I found a gem! I really like this unique bike tent that allows you to store your bike inside the tent with plenty of room to sleep. It weighs less than five pounds so it's an easy carry on a bike.
I'd really like to take a bikepacking tour of New England, but I know it won't be any time soon since my spring, summer, and fall are already planned. That's OK, because I also need to find a new bike since I gifted mine to a friend who had an immediate need for one. It's still fun to dream and plan ahead while killing a little time.
We have friends who bikepack and have met other bikepackers while camping. We shared our food, firewood, etc and helped dispose of trash for the weary mountain bikepackers we have come across.
Bikepacking is basically camping through an area on a bike. We like bikes; we like camping! It's close to what we already do, so we think it would be a good extension and a new way to explore as a couple.
In looking for equipment, I found a gem! I really like this unique bike tent that allows you to store your bike inside the tent with plenty of room to sleep. It weighs less than five pounds so it's an easy carry on a bike.
I'd really like to take a bikepacking tour of New England, but I know it won't be any time soon since my spring, summer, and fall are already planned. That's OK, because I also need to find a new bike since I gifted mine to a friend who had an immediate need for one. It's still fun to dream and plan ahead while killing a little time.
Year Around Christmas Shopping
Because I like to keep my Christmas a peaceful time of reflection, I shop year around for Christmas presents. I look for sales and clearance items on things I know my family will enjoy. I tend to buy mainly practical items. I like shopping online because it lets me research products and compare prices, but sometimes you can beat those deals in the store.
As I talk with or visit people on my gift giving list, I send myself a note about things they need or would like. For example, I knew four people on my list need a way to keep documents safe, so safes are what I shopped for last summer. I make notes about what interests they have, like I have a family member who loves whales, so if I find something like a sturdy wall hook in that area on clearance, I will know it will be used and appreciated.
This practice saves me quite a bit of money and time. The cost is spread out over the entire year which is easier to manage. It also keeps me out of the crowds and away from illnesses during peak cold and flu season. I also get to slow down and enjoy my Christmas and do the things that matter to me.
So, while the rest of the world is done with Christmas, mine is starting all over again!
So, while the rest of the world is done with Christmas, mine is starting all over again!
Wednesday, January 02, 2019
Caleb's Cane
He turned the oak pole on his lathe.
The block of cedar came from a tree Clint cut down for someone's home's safety and to use as firewood. You can see Caleb's sketch for a handle on that.
He had just returned from meeting a contractor for his boss. He is really enjoying his second job which pays over $20 an hour. I think this job might open the door to his future.
Watching my children's stories unfold is one of my greatest joys. All of those years of pressing through the weariness to keep sowing in their hearts and lives is reaping a joyful and bountiful harvest. And, it is just beginning!
A Very Flawed Blog and Blog Author
Originally posted in 2007. I have no hard feelings for Elliot. He is my brother in Christ. My response still holds true, and that is why I reposted this. This blog is posted in five minute bits of time that I have leftover in my days, and I am almost always multi-tasking when I do it. I am never going to get it perfect. I am a flawed mess, ya'll! I am so thankful that God doesn't grade my writing, but He looks at the heart of my writing. He knows what motivates me. What a gracious God we serve! Let's example that and be more gracious with each other.
Please correct your site for spelling, grammar and useage. As a Christian, I am embarrassed when someone who is so obviously Christian is running what is supposed to be a professional operation and they write something like this:
"People who suffer from skin allergies, winter itchies, eczema, and dry skin are frequent users of goat's milk soap. While we can't tell you it will heal these conditions, we can tell you it will not further excerbate them."
The word is "exascerbate," not "excerbate." If you start to get shaky when you reach for a more than 3 syllable word, either use words with less syllables,(as in "it will not make them worse), or reach for a dictionary.
Also, the phrase, "further exascerbate" is redundant. It's like saying "repeat again" or "stupid idiot."
The correct way to write the sentence is: "While we can't tell you it will heal these conditions, we can tell you it will not exascerbate them."
I understand a home schooler won a National geography contest, but it has been my experience that Christians as a group are very poor spellers and very lazy about using words. They use the words "impact" and "incredible" both incorrectly and to the point where anyone who is listening for them could about vomit.
Please have someone who knows spelling, grammar and useage go through your site and correct what is wrong.
Here's another, actually humorous error:
"Brandon was born in 1992. Clint and I realized then that we wanted the best for our children and recommitted our lives to Christ when he was still in womb." It sounds as if you recommitted your lives to Christ when Clint was still in the womb.
I apologize for writing to criticize, but I think it is in our best interests as Christians to look just as good and intelligent as we can to the rest of the world. Dan Quayle did us some real damage. Let's not make that worse.
Blessings and best wishes,
Elliot
Thank you Elliot for taking your time to go over our website and find errors that make you "want to vomit." I have been very clear in our blog that I will make mistakes in spelling and grammar. In fact, I know of many more than what you pointed out. Overall, we find our readers to be very understanding, forgiving and humble people who encourage us to keep sharing our lives.
I've learned to face the facts that I will make mistakes not only in writing, but in every area of my life. In fact, I make them often. If you are looking for perfection in any area, please don't look this way! Instead, I point you to the example of Christ. He is the only Perfection I have ever met.
I am a full time mother of six children. I am homeschooling five of them this year. The other is a newborn. I breed dogs, run our farm, make soap, sell used books, garden, use coupons to plan out each grocery trip and cook our meals from scratch. I also spend time each week writing women around the globe who are desperate for Christian fellowship. I have been asked to do three book reviews in the next few weeks. I am also working with my husband to repair and renovate our home and so on and on the list goes. When I get a chance, I am also working on a book, which will be edited by someone who is paid to find my many errors. :-D I am asking you to cut me some slack, Elliot.
I promise to everyone reading that I WILL make more mistakes. I am not going back to correct the errors you mentioned. I am just not that proud and do not have the time. Many people relate to me because my flaws are so apparent.
In fact, I receive many, many compliments and have been told more times than I can count that I should write a book. Parts of our website are printed in electronic and print media every month. Something here works OK in spite of the many mistakes!
While I like doing things correctly, how I spell and the grammar I use is not quite as important to me as it is that I convey God's great love for each person who comes to this site. God is not going to ask me about my spelling and usage. He's going to ask me if I reached out to others in His Name. Did I change lives for Him? Did I show love, encourage, build up, strengthen, help, die to self and so much more?
Maybe that is why you find Christians to be "lazy" with words. Sincere Christians try to reflect Christ's humble, loving and forgiving spirit. Doing that means we work harder on the inner man than the external appearances. It's much easier to worry about how my hair, clothes, writing, home, etc appear to others than it is to work on the character traits it takes to be a dedicated follower of Christ.
What you get here is leftovers of a tired, hardworking mother with a love for the Lord and good sense of humor. If it bothers you so much, please find another place to read. If you can accept my humble and imperfect ways without being driven to the barf bucket, keep reading. We'd love to count you among our friends.
By the way Elliot, since you brought it up:
You misspelled usage. You do not need the "e." Spell checker would have found that for you, or were you like me, going so fast in a very busy day that you forgot it was there? or just didn't have thirty seconds more before your family needed you again?
The word I was looking for was exacerbate which means to increase the severity. According to dictionary.com (yes, I know how to use one) and Blogger's spell checker, you misspelled that also.
If it were part of a title, national would need capitalization.
In spite of your imperfections, I understood your meaning. I saw other errors in your writing, but I believe my point is made.
No matter how imperfect we are, Christ still shows us His awesome love. I don't have to have perfect words or a beautiful voice because He sees right to my heart. He never demeans. How wonderful it is to belong to Him! If only we could follow His example in how we relate to others.
If you really want nightmares Elliot, you should drop by the house and hear my southern accent whip out some slang. That'll put a knot in your britches. :-)
If Dan Quayle's only flaw anyone can remember is that he misspelled a word, I feel he's done very well.
You should also be aware that homeschooled children are doing a lot more than winning at national spelling and geography contests. Read up a little and be impressed.
In Christ,
Wendy
Please correct your site for spelling, grammar and useage. As a Christian, I am embarrassed when someone who is so obviously Christian is running what is supposed to be a professional operation and they write something like this:
"People who suffer from skin allergies, winter itchies, eczema, and dry skin are frequent users of goat's milk soap. While we can't tell you it will heal these conditions, we can tell you it will not further excerbate them."
The word is "exascerbate," not "excerbate." If you start to get shaky when you reach for a more than 3 syllable word, either use words with less syllables,(as in "it will not make them worse), or reach for a dictionary.
Also, the phrase, "further exascerbate" is redundant. It's like saying "repeat again" or "stupid idiot."
The correct way to write the sentence is: "While we can't tell you it will heal these conditions, we can tell you it will not exascerbate them."
I understand a home schooler won a National geography contest, but it has been my experience that Christians as a group are very poor spellers and very lazy about using words. They use the words "impact" and "incredible" both incorrectly and to the point where anyone who is listening for them could about vomit.
Please have someone who knows spelling, grammar and useage go through your site and correct what is wrong.
Here's another, actually humorous error:
"Brandon was born in 1992. Clint and I realized then that we wanted the best for our children and recommitted our lives to Christ when he was still in womb." It sounds as if you recommitted your lives to Christ when Clint was still in the womb.
I apologize for writing to criticize, but I think it is in our best interests as Christians to look just as good and intelligent as we can to the rest of the world. Dan Quayle did us some real damage. Let's not make that worse.
Blessings and best wishes,
Elliot
Thank you Elliot for taking your time to go over our website and find errors that make you "want to vomit." I have been very clear in our blog that I will make mistakes in spelling and grammar. In fact, I know of many more than what you pointed out. Overall, we find our readers to be very understanding, forgiving and humble people who encourage us to keep sharing our lives.
I've learned to face the facts that I will make mistakes not only in writing, but in every area of my life. In fact, I make them often. If you are looking for perfection in any area, please don't look this way! Instead, I point you to the example of Christ. He is the only Perfection I have ever met.
I am a full time mother of six children. I am homeschooling five of them this year. The other is a newborn. I breed dogs, run our farm, make soap, sell used books, garden, use coupons to plan out each grocery trip and cook our meals from scratch. I also spend time each week writing women around the globe who are desperate for Christian fellowship. I have been asked to do three book reviews in the next few weeks. I am also working with my husband to repair and renovate our home and so on and on the list goes. When I get a chance, I am also working on a book, which will be edited by someone who is paid to find my many errors. :-D I am asking you to cut me some slack, Elliot.
I promise to everyone reading that I WILL make more mistakes. I am not going back to correct the errors you mentioned. I am just not that proud and do not have the time. Many people relate to me because my flaws are so apparent.
In fact, I receive many, many compliments and have been told more times than I can count that I should write a book. Parts of our website are printed in electronic and print media every month. Something here works OK in spite of the many mistakes!
While I like doing things correctly, how I spell and the grammar I use is not quite as important to me as it is that I convey God's great love for each person who comes to this site. God is not going to ask me about my spelling and usage. He's going to ask me if I reached out to others in His Name. Did I change lives for Him? Did I show love, encourage, build up, strengthen, help, die to self and so much more?
Maybe that is why you find Christians to be "lazy" with words. Sincere Christians try to reflect Christ's humble, loving and forgiving spirit. Doing that means we work harder on the inner man than the external appearances. It's much easier to worry about how my hair, clothes, writing, home, etc appear to others than it is to work on the character traits it takes to be a dedicated follower of Christ.
What you get here is leftovers of a tired, hardworking mother with a love for the Lord and good sense of humor. If it bothers you so much, please find another place to read. If you can accept my humble and imperfect ways without being driven to the barf bucket, keep reading. We'd love to count you among our friends.
By the way Elliot, since you brought it up:
You misspelled usage. You do not need the "e." Spell checker would have found that for you, or were you like me, going so fast in a very busy day that you forgot it was there? or just didn't have thirty seconds more before your family needed you again?
The word I was looking for was exacerbate which means to increase the severity. According to dictionary.com (yes, I know how to use one) and Blogger's spell checker, you misspelled that also.
If it were part of a title, national would need capitalization.
In spite of your imperfections, I understood your meaning. I saw other errors in your writing, but I believe my point is made.
No matter how imperfect we are, Christ still shows us His awesome love. I don't have to have perfect words or a beautiful voice because He sees right to my heart. He never demeans. How wonderful it is to belong to Him! If only we could follow His example in how we relate to others.
If you really want nightmares Elliot, you should drop by the house and hear my southern accent whip out some slang. That'll put a knot in your britches. :-)
If Dan Quayle's only flaw anyone can remember is that he misspelled a word, I feel he's done very well.
You should also be aware that homeschooled children are doing a lot more than winning at national spelling and geography contests. Read up a little and be impressed.
In Christ,
Wendy
Tuesday, January 01, 2019
Happy New Year 2019
Our gang wishes everyone reading this a Happy New Year!
May your 2019 be filled with an abundance of blessings!
Resolution One: I will live for God.
Resolution Two: If no one else does, I still will.
-Jonathan Edwards
Resolution One: I will live for God.
Resolution Two: If no one else does, I still will.
-Jonathan Edwards
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