Throughout February, I shared quotes and verses with the theme of love. Here is a closing thought:
“We instinctively tend to limit for whom we exert ourselves. We do it for people like us, and for people whom we like. Jesus will have none of that. By depicting a Samaritan helping a Jew, Jesus could not have found a more forceful way to say that anyone at all in need - regardless of race, politics, class, and religion - is your neighbour. Not everyone is your brother or sister in faith, but everyone is your neighbour, and you must love your neighbour.” Generous Justice: How God's Grace Makes Us Just
Friday, February 28, 2020
let us exalt his name together
"I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are helpless take heart. Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness; let us exalt his name together." -Psalm 34:1-3
Dear Reader, will you join me in praising the Lord today?
Dear Reader, will you join me in praising the Lord today?
Thursday, February 27, 2020
Prayers for Our Family Please
Our family could use prayer that God will work out a situation in our favor. This would be very helpful and life changing. Thank you!
Saving Money on Pets
This is a repeat post:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Wednesday, February 26, 2020
Mrs. C's Obituary
https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/pilotonline/obituary.aspx?n=anne-delores-freeman-conner-carr&pid=195515205
Thank you to those who have been praying for our friends.
Thank you to those who have been praying for our friends.
Mon cœur, ma vie amoureuse, mon amour
The faces were accompanied by great animation and sound effects.
Ha ha! He was trying to make me laugh.
Tuesday, February 25, 2020
Friends Raising Funds for Medical Expenses
These are sweet, Christian friends of ours. Karen was an incredible encourager and source of information when Caleb's appendix burst. She encouraged me when I miscarried and gave birth to stillborn babies.
If you feel led, please help them out. Even $5 will help them. The journey with Myles has been very challenging, but the tremendous love this family has for him came easily. Things have been even more challenging lately.
Karen has been a champion in getting others to pray for and raise money for many children and families. She lends support and encourages many others. I truly hope the Body of Christ steps up and helps this family out. If you can't contribute, then please pray hard for their wisdom, guidance, and provision.
If you feel led, please help them out. Even $5 will help them. The journey with Myles has been very challenging, but the tremendous love this family has for him came easily. Things have been even more challenging lately.
Karen has been a champion in getting others to pray for and raise money for many children and families. She lends support and encourages many others. I truly hope the Body of Christ steps up and helps this family out. If you can't contribute, then please pray hard for their wisdom, guidance, and provision.
End of an Era
There were other containers that were not in the picture.
7 children + homeschooling + 28 years of collecting = a lot
7 children + homeschooling + 28 years of collecting = a lot
The Legos were kept in a small building with just toys and craft items.
Our family's Legos are all going into storage since our girls are not interested in them any more. If the girls want to play with them, they will be easy to reach. We hope to make a playroom for our grandchildren one day, so we'll hold onto them until a future date to see is that is doable.
When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
I Corinthians 13:11
Monday, February 24, 2020
OpSec in the Bible
Leave it to my wonderful husband to find an example of OPSEC in the Bible. I don't have time to share all of the notes from his lesson, but it is a Bible topic fitting for teens, young adults, and those in or interested in the military.
“If you don’t tell what we are doing, we will treat you kindly and faithfully when the Lord gives us the land.” Read more in Joshua 2
"Operations Security (OPSEC) is the process by which we protect critical information whether it is classified or unclassified that can be used against us. ... OPSEC challenges us to look at ourselves through the eyes of an adversary and deny the adversary the ability to act." source
“If you don’t tell what we are doing, we will treat you kindly and faithfully when the Lord gives us the land.” Read more in Joshua 2
"Operations Security (OPSEC) is the process by which we protect critical information whether it is classified or unclassified that can be used against us. ... OPSEC challenges us to look at ourselves through the eyes of an adversary and deny the adversary the ability to act." source
Busy "Herbaling" Today
You see produce. I see antivirals.
I was in the middle of filling the jars with honey.
I love all of the colors!
Flea Control Tip
This is a repeat post.
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 insect control on our farm. They did a FANTASTIC job. We did not see a single flea or tick or much of any insect 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!
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 insect control on our farm. They did a FANTASTIC job. We did not see a single flea or tick or much of any insect 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!
Sunday, February 23, 2020
the production of fruit in our lives was ever the Master's end goal
What if there is truly more to our sufferings than what we see? If you're anything like me, maybe you have discovered the disquieting and dreadful places of crushing in life moves us along from one stage to the next. We may not like to admit it, but what if our crushing is necessary in order for our potential to be fulfilled? ...
Once accepted, this line of thinking causes a massive shift in our perceptions. We finally realize we have been thinking on too small a level in contrast to a God, whose endgame for our destinies resembles eternity instead of something temporary. ...
Crushing places reveal that there is more to our lives than we had planned. The truly invaluable, marvelous, and eternal aspects of our identity and ultimate destiny are displayed to us there. It is in the midst of painful crushing that we realize that the blessing found in the production of fruit in our lives was ever the Master's end goal. Our latest crop of fruit was merely part of an ongoing, greater process.
-T. D. Jakes Crushing
That suffering can move us from one stage to the next became truth in my life. I received crushing news of a betrayal on this date two years ago. As I looked for answers, God put something on my heart and then dropped opportunity into my family's life. The blessing was effortless, but my heart had to be opened to it in order for me to see and grab ahold of it. I had to have a shift my perceptions, and the betrayal did that in my heart. Without the betrayal of a friend, I would not have been looking for answers or seen the opportunity when it came. It has been a tremendous blessing to us. Suffering in a relationship took my family in a direction we had wanted to go, but we thought we had to wait at least a decade before starting. We were moved from one place to another through the hurt of betrayal. Betrayal really hurts, but God works all things for the good of those who love Him!
Once accepted, this line of thinking causes a massive shift in our perceptions. We finally realize we have been thinking on too small a level in contrast to a God, whose endgame for our destinies resembles eternity instead of something temporary. ...
Crushing places reveal that there is more to our lives than we had planned. The truly invaluable, marvelous, and eternal aspects of our identity and ultimate destiny are displayed to us there. It is in the midst of painful crushing that we realize that the blessing found in the production of fruit in our lives was ever the Master's end goal. Our latest crop of fruit was merely part of an ongoing, greater process.
-T. D. Jakes Crushing
That suffering can move us from one stage to the next became truth in my life. I received crushing news of a betrayal on this date two years ago. As I looked for answers, God put something on my heart and then dropped opportunity into my family's life. The blessing was effortless, but my heart had to be opened to it in order for me to see and grab ahold of it. I had to have a shift my perceptions, and the betrayal did that in my heart. Without the betrayal of a friend, I would not have been looking for answers or seen the opportunity when it came. It has been a tremendous blessing to us. Suffering in a relationship took my family in a direction we had wanted to go, but we thought we had to wait at least a decade before starting. We were moved from one place to another through the hurt of betrayal. Betrayal really hurts, but God works all things for the good of those who love Him!
Saturday, February 22, 2020
Friday, February 21, 2020
Sheer Faith
I found this shower curtain, modified it, and use it as a window curtain. (I was in a hurry to finish it and did not iron it.) It gives privacy (second story) but lets in plenty of light. Best of all, it puts God's Word right in front of my family and friends.
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Homemade Yogurt is EASY
Much to her delight, my 10 year old made a gallon and a half of yogurt on her own. If she can, you can too!
I am not a fan of having lots of small kitchen appliances. I do a lot of work in my kitchen preserving and preparing our food. Even though my beloved old farm house has a nicely sized kitchen with nearly 27 feet of counter space, space can still become an issue when canning or freezer meal prepping.
I like to invest in items that can do double duty instead of something that has only one function. I also prefer tried and true and simple over the latest high tech gadget. I've been using a tried and true "instapot" that has been going strong for 32 years now. It's a small "old school" pressure cooker that was well worth the investment and has outlasted many friends' Instapots. My method for making yogurt is even more simple and low tech. I use my cooler which also keeps our food cold and...cooks our corn on the cob!!
I've been using the cooler method for a couple of decades now. I usually make at least a gallon and a half of yogurt at a time to keep up with my family's needs. I prefer making it with fresh goat's milk, but we make it with store bought cow's milk too.
I wash and dry jars, lids, and rings, and prepare our cooler. I fill our cooler halfway with 115F water and close the lid. (If I heat it to 115-120F, it is perfect when I go to put the jars inside.) I heat the milk to 185F and then cool it down to 110F. I put it in the jars and "seed" the jars with 1-2 Tbsp of plain nonfat yogurt. I will stir or shake the jars to mix it. Then, I seal the jars and place them in the warm water for 8-12 hours.
I've never had this fail. In a time crunch, I've also skipped the heating the store bought cow's milk to 185 part (I always heat the raw milk.), and the yogurt still came out great. If I want thicker yogurt, I add a little over 1/2 cup of dry milk to the regular milk in each quart.
This is quick, simple, inexpensive, and uses up a lot of milk at one time. Yogurt is so versatile it does not last long in our home. If you use the yogurt you have made to start the next batch, the cost diminishes further. My family gets to flavor it to their individual preferences which makes them happy. For homeschooling, you can teach the fermentation process and expand upon it by making yogurt cheese.
He shall eat curds and honey
when he knows how to refuse the evil
and choose the good.
Isaiah 7:15
Wednesday, February 19, 2020
They are a lot of fun!
Joshua saw the shirt at Walmart, bought it for Bethany, and took her out to pose for the picture.
Tuesday, February 18, 2020
Caleb's Pens
These are examples of pens Caleb has turned on his lathe.
If you are interested in prices and availability, email me at the link in the header. I will put you in touch with him.
Monday, February 17, 2020
Happily waiting my turn for his attention...
He had just arrived home.
The children were so happy to see him and had so much to tell him.
I sat there enjoying their banter and happily awaiting my turn.
I sat there enjoying their banter and happily awaiting my turn.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of being and ideal grace.
-Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Sunday, February 16, 2020
Anyone who lives the way God wants
So always tell each other the wrong things you have done.
Then pray for each other.
Do this so that God can heal you.
Anyone who lives the way God wants
can pray,
and great things will happen.
James 5:16 ESR
Saturday, February 15, 2020
On My Canvas
I had some rare time to myself in November.
not bad for a first attempt
In the last year, I have done some painting on the spiral ringed art pad the girls gave me. It has very thick heavy weight paper that can handle paint. I finally decided to try painting on canvas again (first time in over 20 years, again, thanks to my girls), and I really enjoyed it.
canvas panels
Friday, February 14, 2020
Greater Love
Greater love hath no man than this,
that a man lay down his life for his friends.
John 15:13
But he was wounded for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his stripes we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5
He is the propitiation for our sins,
and not for ours only but also for
the sins of the whole world.
I John 2:2
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.
Whoever believes in me, though he die,
yet shall he live,
John 11:25
Dear Reader, I could not think of anything more fitting for today's date than a reminder of the greatest love ever. He promises to never leave us nor forsake us, and his love endures forever. Whomever you are, wherever you are, know that there is a God and He really, truly loves you. I love you too, but my love for you is just a faint shadow when compared to His incomprehensible love. -"mama" to many, "aunt" to a few, "sister" to certain friends, and Wendy to everyone
Thursday, February 13, 2020
How to Know When They Love You
Love recognizes no barriers.
It jumps hurdles,
leaps fences,
penetrates walls
to arrive at its destination
full of hope.
-Maya Angelou
Love never gives up,
never loses faith,
is always hopeful,
and endures through every circumstance.
I Corinthians 13:7
Fermenting Garlic and Honey
I was asked about my jars of honey and garlic that were sitting on my fridge. I promised I'd share here. It took me a little longer than I anticipated, but here you go:
The hardest part of this is peeling the garlic. I break the cloves up putting them tip down and pressing on them with the heel of my palm. Then, I pick out the skins and place the cloves in a jar and shake them hard. Sometimes it takes two to three "shakings" to get them all. I remove the skins and put the unpeeled ones back in the jar. I still have a few that need peeling, but they are easier to peel after shaking. This helps to remove the skins better than any other method I have experimented with to date.
The recipe is as simple as it looks. I fill a jar 3/4 of the way with peeled garlic cloves, and then cover them with honey. I leave the lid loose so gas can escape as it ferments. The bubbles tell me it's working. I tighten the lid and shake every day or two. I turn it upside down now and then while it is still fermenting just to help it mix better. I make sure I turn them rightside up and loosen the lid so it can "burp." As the chemical changes take place inside the jar, the honey gets thinner and darkens.
One can eat a clove or take the honey by spoon. If our throat is sore we will try to let the honey coat our throat and stay there for as long as we can. The honey and garlic can be used in cooking to add flavor too.
It's estimated 70% of our immune system cells are in our gut Stanford researchers learned it takes up to SIX MONTHS for certain gut flora to recover from antibiotic usage. That's a long time for a key component of our immune systems to be out of balance. Gut flora being out of balance can lead to a whole hosts of ailments, so my family tries to avoid antibiotics.
Dear Reader, If you are not familiar with the wonderful medicinal properties of honey and garlic, I encourage you to do research for yourself so you will have another tool in your health arsenal. I shared two links below to get you started, but there is much, much more on the internet about both foods.
It is not good to eat much honey,
nor is it glory to search out one's own glory.
Proverbs 25:27
Wednesday, February 12, 2020
A Healed Relationship
A friend* of mine gave her brother about a 1000 chances to straighten up. He was a mess! He was often found on the side of the road passed out in the mud and covered in vomit and urine. Sometimes he'd disappear for months at a time. He did horrible things and lived a very rough life. When he was brought low, he was grateful for her help and treated her well. When he returned to the drugs, he turned into someone very cruel.
Many people in her church told her to move on and forget about him. The drugs had "too strong a grip," and he would "never get free." She wouldn't do that, but she did stop asking publicly within the church for prayer. She quietly enlisted a handful of people as prayer warriors. I prayed with her for him for over a decade.
Very few people ever thought he would get free of the drugs, but our prayers were answered! He did finally quit the drugs and got to a much better place. He gave his life to Christ and radically changed! He even went to church and shared his testimony. My friend included me in her joy, and we rejoiced over what God had done. I can't think of this story without smiling! When God is in it, no situation is hopeless!
Not long after his conversion, he started having pain in different places. Cancer was discovered. The theory is that the drugs were masking his body's cues to what was going on within. What was treatable went unrecognized until it was too late. My friend had nine beautiful months with her brother before he died.
If she had not kept reaching out to her brother with love, if she had not been working in her own heart through the anger and disappointment to stay humble and moldable, if she had not kept acting out her love towards her brother, if she had not overlooked his sin and seen the need... she would have missed out on something life changing and inspiring!
She now has a powerful story she shares of reconciliation and the power of God in seemingly hopeless circumstances. If she had abandoned the relationship as others told her to do, she never would have had the privilege of leading her brother to Christ. She would have also missed out on the precious time, the sweet memories, and having the testimony of what God did! She'd have never had her faith built up so strongly either.
Because she was faithful in the small way, God has expanded her reach for Him. She is now helping others cope with drug addicted loved ones. She has a rewarding ministry where she gets to share her brother's story which gives other addicts and families hope. God takes messes and makes them beautiful and useful!
The Bible tells us to "defeat evil by doing good." To be effective for the Lord, we have to act differently from the world. He calls us to stand out so we don't blend in with the world. He wants us to live differently so we can get the world's attention. We are His advertisement to the world that He offers them something good!
God calls us to a higher standard of loving and relating to one another, but wow, look at the changes we see in our lives and those around us when we do this! My friend defeated the evil her brother was doing by loving him when he was very unlovable. God did a marvelous work in so many lives because of it. To Him be the glory! He is worthy of all our praise!
Many people in her church told her to move on and forget about him. The drugs had "too strong a grip," and he would "never get free." She wouldn't do that, but she did stop asking publicly within the church for prayer. She quietly enlisted a handful of people as prayer warriors. I prayed with her for him for over a decade.
Very few people ever thought he would get free of the drugs, but our prayers were answered! He did finally quit the drugs and got to a much better place. He gave his life to Christ and radically changed! He even went to church and shared his testimony. My friend included me in her joy, and we rejoiced over what God had done. I can't think of this story without smiling! When God is in it, no situation is hopeless!
Not long after his conversion, he started having pain in different places. Cancer was discovered. The theory is that the drugs were masking his body's cues to what was going on within. What was treatable went unrecognized until it was too late. My friend had nine beautiful months with her brother before he died.
If she had not kept reaching out to her brother with love, if she had not been working in her own heart through the anger and disappointment to stay humble and moldable, if she had not kept acting out her love towards her brother, if she had not overlooked his sin and seen the need... she would have missed out on something life changing and inspiring!
She now has a powerful story she shares of reconciliation and the power of God in seemingly hopeless circumstances. If she had abandoned the relationship as others told her to do, she never would have had the privilege of leading her brother to Christ. She would have also missed out on the precious time, the sweet memories, and having the testimony of what God did! She'd have never had her faith built up so strongly either.
Because she was faithful in the small way, God has expanded her reach for Him. She is now helping others cope with drug addicted loved ones. She has a rewarding ministry where she gets to share her brother's story which gives other addicts and families hope. God takes messes and makes them beautiful and useful!
The Bible tells us to "defeat evil by doing good." To be effective for the Lord, we have to act differently from the world. He calls us to stand out so we don't blend in with the world. He wants us to live differently so we can get the world's attention. We are His advertisement to the world that He offers them something good!
God calls us to a higher standard of loving and relating to one another, but wow, look at the changes we see in our lives and those around us when we do this! My friend defeated the evil her brother was doing by loving him when he was very unlovable. God did a marvelous work in so many lives because of it. To Him be the glory! He is worthy of all our praise!
Live together in peace with each other. Don’t be proud, but be willing to be friends with people who are not important to others. Don’t think of yourself as smarter than everyone else. If someone does you wrong, don’t try to pay them back by hurting them. Try to do what everyone thinks is right. Do the best you can to live in peace with everyone. My friends, don’t try to punish anyone who does wrong to you. Wait for God to punish them with his anger. In the Scriptures the Lord says,
“I am the one who punishes;
I will pay people back.” But you should do this:
“If you have enemies who are hungry,
give them something to eat.
If you have enemies who are thirsty,
give them something to drink.
In doing this you will make them feel ashamed.”
Don’t let evil defeat you,
but defeat evil
by doing good.
but defeat evil
by doing good.
Romans 12:16-21
*My friend prefers I not share her name so she can continue work with families who desire privacy. In some job situations, having an addict as a family member is a liability.
Tuesday, February 11, 2020
“Christian junk food.”
"While there was a scattering of quality books, the large majority were “Christian junk food.” Shelf after shelf of books that focuses on the believer’s happiness and success, and very few addressing the nature of God and biblical discipleship (the real solution for happiness and success). ...
But Christian bookstores supply what people want to buy. So perhaps the question we need to ask ourselves is this: What kind of work are we equipping ourselves for with trinkets and t-shirts instead of books on discipleship training?" source: A Missionary on Furlough Walks into a Christian Bookstore…
A good way to choose Christian books to read is to read the books your pastor keeps in his library. I was blessed with an entire library from a retired pastor many years ago. The difference in the quality of content of those books and the books sold today is quite alarming. Many of the books I received from the pastor are found for free on Amazon Kindle. Hint: Read the "old dead guys of faith." You will find many of their quotes in previous blog entries. -Aunt W
But Christian bookstores supply what people want to buy. So perhaps the question we need to ask ourselves is this: What kind of work are we equipping ourselves for with trinkets and t-shirts instead of books on discipleship training?" source: A Missionary on Furlough Walks into a Christian Bookstore…
A good way to choose Christian books to read is to read the books your pastor keeps in his library. I was blessed with an entire library from a retired pastor many years ago. The difference in the quality of content of those books and the books sold today is quite alarming. Many of the books I received from the pastor are found for free on Amazon Kindle. Hint: Read the "old dead guys of faith." You will find many of their quotes in previous blog entries. -Aunt W
selfishness excusing itself from from a distasteful duty
"Our dear Redeemer, whose lips are as lilies dropping sweet smelling myrrh, in great tenderness of heart warned men of the sure result of their sins; and none used stronger or more alarming language than he did concerning the future of ungodly men. He knew nothing of that pretended sympathy which will rather let men perish than warn them against perishing. Such tenderness is merely selfishness excusing itself from from a distasteful duty." Charles Spurgeon
The Complete Works of C. H. Spurgeon, Volume 32: Sermons 1877-1937
Monday, February 10, 2020
It's been like this since
...1985. God had a plan.
I never knew love could grow so deeply or
that our love would grow by "14+18 feet."
I am so thankful I am a part of this.
And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
2 Corinthians 9:8
Sunday, February 09, 2020
the world's true Lord
“God is the one who satisfies
the passion for justice,
the longing for spirituality,
the hunger for relationship,
the yearning for beauty.
And God,
the true God,
is the God we see in Jesus of Nazareth,
Israel's Messiah,
the world's true Lord.”
-N.T. Wright
Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense
Saturday, February 08, 2020
Herb Day
Plans changed, so I get to stay home and work on food preservation (increasing our supply of dehydrated cauliflower, mixed veggies, and etc) and work with another 12 pound shipment of herbs. I am happy about that!
Friday, February 07, 2020
Different Kind of Pup
A waterman caught this shot of a seal on the East River.
We see at least one every year, but we don't see them in large numbers.
Hobbit's Dream 3 of 3
picts by Joshua and Bethany
Brandon, Joshua, and Bethany enjoyed their visit to Hobbit's Dream so much, they want to go back and see it when everything is in bloom. They also want to take another class and get Caleb to go with them. They LOVED their time at Hobbit's Dream.
The host, Randy, was very kind towards our three children. He took extra time with them. He took Bethany aside, let her choose the colors and style of a broom he made, and taught her as he went. Then, he gave her the broom which has her initials on it! Brandon, Joshua, and Bethany mentioned Caleb's woodworking. The host gave them a tour of his shop and sent things home for Caleb to make his own pipe. Mr. Holland's wife, was recovering from laryngitis, so they did not see much of her.
I was floored when the children arrived home and immediately handed me a gift from their host. "Why is he giving me a gift?" I asked bewilderedly. As the trio of Asbells were leaving to head home, Randy met with them and gave them a gift for me. He told them to tell me that they were a delight work with and very proficient in the shop. They stood out as different from most of his guests. He told them I had done such a great job raising them that he wanted to give me a gift. He sent me home a beautiful broom called a dragon's wing broom. Thank you very much, Randy! Every time I look at it, I think of your kindness to my children and thoughtfulness to me.
Thank you, Father, for leading our family to a different path called homeschooling. It has shaped our lives, marriage, family, work ethic, and so much more. My heart often wondered how it would turn out in those early years because we were embarking on something foreign to us. When you begin something, you can't always see the outcome, but the proof doesn't come until the work is done. Thank you, Lord, for being worthy of my hesitant trust and for making my family stand out as different from the "normal crowd" ...for You! I am so glad we followed where you led. To God be the glory forever and ever.
Thank you, Father, for leading our family to a different path called homeschooling. It has shaped our lives, marriage, family, work ethic, and so much more. My heart often wondered how it would turn out in those early years because we were embarking on something foreign to us. When you begin something, you can't always see the outcome, but the proof doesn't come until the work is done. Thank you, Lord, for being worthy of my hesitant trust and for making my family stand out as different from the "normal crowd" ...for You! I am so glad we followed where you led. To God be the glory forever and ever.
Thursday, February 06, 2020
all the same
dreary rainy day thoughts:
“No less God within the shadows
No less faithful when the night leads me astray
You're the heaven where my heart is
In the highlands and the heartache all the same”
Highlands-Song of Ascent by Hillsong
Hobbit's Dream 2 of 3
picts by Bethany
In my children's studies of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, they learned he was friend's with another Christian author C. S. Lewis. This fact really engaged them in their studies of these two men's writings. Brandon, Joshua, and Bethany enjoyed stepping into a real life example of Tolkien's imagination at Hobbit's Dream in Fairfield, VA.
While talking to the owner, Randy H., they learned the bathroom sink (pictured above) was made by him from an old propane tank. Many of the items in the hobbit home were made by the owner and his wife. He features classes where you can learn to make some of the items.
Wednesday, February 05, 2020
Hobbit's Dream 1 of 3
picts by Bethany
Our family enjoyed the Lord of the Rings trilogy by Tolkien who said himself Christian symbolism could be found in his writings. We've studied the symbolism and have frequently discussed it. Our family is often making references to the movie, and we call our dining room/den cut out "Middle Earth." So, it is natural that a place built like a hobbit's house would intrigue our family members and inspire the imagination!
When we asked Joshua and Bethany what they wanted for their birthday gifts, they both said they wanted to go to Hobbit's Dream. Brandon wanted to go too, so the trip was planned. The soonest they could go was in January, so they had a long wait from September, but they all agreed it was well worth it. All three of them want to return and take more classes from the owner. Caleb wants to go next time so he can see the workshop.
Tuesday, February 04, 2020
'Come and talk with me.'
"My heart has heard you say,
'Come and talk with me.'
And my heart responds,
'Lord, I am coming.'"
Psalm 27:8
Monday, February 03, 2020
Around Here Feb 2020
Please forgive me for typos. I've been burning the candle at both ends lately.
Clint and I had some time away together right before Christmas which was unexpected and very last minute but appreciated. We also got a couple of weekends away during January.
We might be visiting a factory in Exmore and another in Richmond in February or March if we can work things out with the management to accomplish our goals. Even if we can't work things out to make the deal, we may travel to the place in Richmond for a tour.
Clint received an unexpected and very nice bonus from work due to the company's successful negotiating and sales. He's been staying busy with new projects at work. One of the men under Clint said Clint was the best at the job and has made some smart moves to improve processes. Clint's received more job offers from companies willing to pay for us to move, but none of them were something we'd consider at this time. It is something we are keeping in the back of our heads for later on though. He has a standing job offer with one company that will allow us to travel the entire US and several other countries. You just never know where God will lead! I am grateful Clint's hard work, vast knowledge of his field, and his amazing skill set is being recognized. Clint has been self sacrificing and deserves every bit of this and much more.
Brandon received a very nice raise which was twice the normal amount! They are working towards his next promotion. He's pretty happy about that since the many changes in his bosses had slowed things down for him. He's also been doing upgrades on his house. He may have an upcoming business trip in the future. He's still waiting to hear the details. He's been working to repair his Jeep, but says he may sell it or part it out due to lack of time.
Amanda received a bonus and has been keeping very busy with overtime. Things have slowed down on her getting to her next promotion. She's working to get attention so it can get back on track again. Amanda loves supervising others, employing science and using the scientific equipment in her job, and being entrusted with so much responsibility. Sometimes she gets to solve mechanical issues although that is not in her job description. She's had to prove herself over and over again because of her age and gender.
Update: Posts are normally written in advance, and the news on this came the day before this was to be posted! Amanda received her promotion and a very large raise!! We are very proud of her! She has worked so hard and has sacrificed so much to accomplish all that she has at such a young age! She's had to put up with harassment from those who did not think she belonged in the job due to her gender and young age. She has now held two leadership positions with this company! Her "big boss" says she is set to shoot up like a rocket. I hope so!
Joshua received a raise at work, has been working full time with some overtime, and is still working on his college. He, Brandon, and Bethany took a week to visit Monticello, Hobbit's Dream, and a few other places. They had a grand time! He has a very busy social life, but his favorite friend to hang out with is his big brother. Joshua is reliable and helps our family out tremendously.
Caleb is still working the two jobs and woodworking. He also has many side things going. Caleb also received a raise. His boss told us he has raised us another $800 towards Caleb's surgery which is amazing considering the other two generous donations already. Caleb was recently given a great bargain from a kind friend. Caleb scored a very nice scroll saw, a tree burl bigger than your head, and two truck loads of hardwood boards. He's making cutting boards, cabinets, and tables in addition to the other things we've featured on the blog. He wants to eventually sell from a website, but right now he has a steady stream of customers.
Bethany was directly offered an immediate job from a local, prominent business owner. She did not take it. Clint and I have been so busy, we have not been able to do much on her Driver's Ed. Bethany also has to make a simple repair on her truck. She's more than fine with waiting, because she is working hard to finish her college. She just turned 16 in September and is halfway to her college degree! She's making a lot of our herbal medicines now because she has mastered a lot of the skills. I still quiz her on a lot of the information because it gives the younger girls good repetition.
Emily and Hannah are doing well in their school and are also learning some electrical work beside Clint. Emily seems to have Clint's natural aptitude for it. The girls are enjoying helping and working with their Daddy. They are both maturing and changing in their interests. Gone are the My Little Pony, Legos, and many other favorites. Art supplies remain the big thing now! They've been learning several food storage methods while helping Bethany and I. Emily told me she loves doing those sorts of things because she will use them many times over in the course of her life. Hannah was delighted when I let her be the first person to use one of my new machines! The girls find me as soon as their school is done and ask to help. As they help, I ask them questions to quiz their knowledge and build upon what they know. It's a double treat for me when they readily impart the knowledge with Clint as soon as he gets home.
I've been cleaning, reorganizing, and inventorying our pantries (for our foreign friends: a place for food storage) which is not a small job. It has been overwhelming at times, but good record keeping leads to better purchase decisions. This is the time of year I normally make the majority of our herbal medicines simply because it is a little slower than other months. I am teaching our youngest girls, who work beside me, what chemicals are strongest in each herb and how they affect the different systems in the body. I'm about to make a batch of salve a friend needs as it seems to be the only thing helping her husband's foot heal. His doctor is all for it which is nice to see. It's received so many accolades from physicians of family and friends, that I am considering selling it in the future. We will see where God leads on many possibilities we are exploring in this very exciting phase of life.
Dear Reader, hopefully you will update us on you and yours. If we don't hear from you too, it is you receiving from us and not giving back. We love hearing from you and rejoice in your good news and pray for you when things are hard. I get a lot of, "I know you are really busy and I don't want to bother you" messages. YOU are not a bother, and I welcome a friendly interruption from the workload. If you read here, you are loved and prayed for! May God bless you abundantly in all areas of your life in 2020!
Closing thoughts: I love and prefer the KJV because it is what I learned when I was a young child, but I really like the way The Message Bible highlights how our attitude towards God should be one of solemnity. We should revere God in our minds, hearts, actions, conversations, relationships, worship, work, etc. Christianity is not a game. It's serious business with serious consequences, and we should reflect that with all we are and all we do. Also, if you've lived any time on this earth, people have undoubtedly disappointed you and maybe even withheld love from you. The Bible also tells us: "God's love never quits." He will never stop loving us. What a comforting Truth!
Clint and I had some time away together right before Christmas which was unexpected and very last minute but appreciated. We also got a couple of weekends away during January.
We might be visiting a factory in Exmore and another in Richmond in February or March if we can work things out with the management to accomplish our goals. Even if we can't work things out to make the deal, we may travel to the place in Richmond for a tour.
Clint received an unexpected and very nice bonus from work due to the company's successful negotiating and sales. He's been staying busy with new projects at work. One of the men under Clint said Clint was the best at the job and has made some smart moves to improve processes. Clint's received more job offers from companies willing to pay for us to move, but none of them were something we'd consider at this time. It is something we are keeping in the back of our heads for later on though. He has a standing job offer with one company that will allow us to travel the entire US and several other countries. You just never know where God will lead! I am grateful Clint's hard work, vast knowledge of his field, and his amazing skill set is being recognized. Clint has been self sacrificing and deserves every bit of this and much more.
Brandon received a very nice raise which was twice the normal amount! They are working towards his next promotion. He's pretty happy about that since the many changes in his bosses had slowed things down for him. He's also been doing upgrades on his house. He may have an upcoming business trip in the future. He's still waiting to hear the details. He's been working to repair his Jeep, but says he may sell it or part it out due to lack of time.
Amanda received a bonus and has been keeping very busy with overtime. Things have slowed down on her getting to her next promotion. She's working to get attention so it can get back on track again. Amanda loves supervising others, employing science and using the scientific equipment in her job, and being entrusted with so much responsibility. Sometimes she gets to solve mechanical issues although that is not in her job description. She's had to prove herself over and over again because of her age and gender.
Update: Posts are normally written in advance, and the news on this came the day before this was to be posted! Amanda received her promotion and a very large raise!! We are very proud of her! She has worked so hard and has sacrificed so much to accomplish all that she has at such a young age! She's had to put up with harassment from those who did not think she belonged in the job due to her gender and young age. She has now held two leadership positions with this company! Her "big boss" says she is set to shoot up like a rocket. I hope so!
I hid anything that might violate her safety (location) or get her in trouble with the company which can be fairly picky about what is shared publicly.
Joshua received a raise at work, has been working full time with some overtime, and is still working on his college. He, Brandon, and Bethany took a week to visit Monticello, Hobbit's Dream, and a few other places. They had a grand time! He has a very busy social life, but his favorite friend to hang out with is his big brother. Joshua is reliable and helps our family out tremendously.
Caleb is still working the two jobs and woodworking. He also has many side things going. Caleb also received a raise. His boss told us he has raised us another $800 towards Caleb's surgery which is amazing considering the other two generous donations already. Caleb was recently given a great bargain from a kind friend. Caleb scored a very nice scroll saw, a tree burl bigger than your head, and two truck loads of hardwood boards. He's making cutting boards, cabinets, and tables in addition to the other things we've featured on the blog. He wants to eventually sell from a website, but right now he has a steady stream of customers.
Bethany was directly offered an immediate job from a local, prominent business owner. She did not take it. Clint and I have been so busy, we have not been able to do much on her Driver's Ed. Bethany also has to make a simple repair on her truck. She's more than fine with waiting, because she is working hard to finish her college. She just turned 16 in September and is halfway to her college degree! She's making a lot of our herbal medicines now because she has mastered a lot of the skills. I still quiz her on a lot of the information because it gives the younger girls good repetition.
Emily and Hannah are doing well in their school and are also learning some electrical work beside Clint. Emily seems to have Clint's natural aptitude for it. The girls are enjoying helping and working with their Daddy. They are both maturing and changing in their interests. Gone are the My Little Pony, Legos, and many other favorites. Art supplies remain the big thing now! They've been learning several food storage methods while helping Bethany and I. Emily told me she loves doing those sorts of things because she will use them many times over in the course of her life. Hannah was delighted when I let her be the first person to use one of my new machines! The girls find me as soon as their school is done and ask to help. As they help, I ask them questions to quiz their knowledge and build upon what they know. It's a double treat for me when they readily impart the knowledge with Clint as soon as he gets home.
I've been cleaning, reorganizing, and inventorying our pantries (for our foreign friends: a place for food storage) which is not a small job. It has been overwhelming at times, but good record keeping leads to better purchase decisions. This is the time of year I normally make the majority of our herbal medicines simply because it is a little slower than other months. I am teaching our youngest girls, who work beside me, what chemicals are strongest in each herb and how they affect the different systems in the body. I'm about to make a batch of salve a friend needs as it seems to be the only thing helping her husband's foot heal. His doctor is all for it which is nice to see. It's received so many accolades from physicians of family and friends, that I am considering selling it in the future. We will see where God leads on many possibilities we are exploring in this very exciting phase of life.
Dear Reader, hopefully you will update us on you and yours. If we don't hear from you too, it is you receiving from us and not giving back. We love hearing from you and rejoice in your good news and pray for you when things are hard. I get a lot of, "I know you are really busy and I don't want to bother you" messages. YOU are not a bother, and I welcome a friendly interruption from the workload. If you read here, you are loved and prayed for! May God bless you abundantly in all areas of your life in 2020!
Closing thoughts: I love and prefer the KJV because it is what I learned when I was a young child, but I really like the way The Message Bible highlights how our attitude towards God should be one of solemnity. We should revere God in our minds, hearts, actions, conversations, relationships, worship, work, etc. Christianity is not a game. It's serious business with serious consequences, and we should reflect that with all we are and all we do. Also, if you've lived any time on this earth, people have undoubtedly disappointed you and maybe even withheld love from you. The Bible also tells us: "God's love never quits." He will never stop loving us. What a comforting Truth!
1 Chronicles 16:30-34 KJV Fear before him, all the earth: the world also shall be stable, that it be not moved. Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The Lord reigneth. Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: let the fields rejoice, and all that is therein. Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the Lord, because he cometh to judge the earth. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.
I Chronicles 16:30-34 MSG
God is serious business, take him seriously;
he’s put the earth in place and it’s not moving.
So let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant,
and pass the word among the nations, “God reigns!”
Let Ocean, all teeming with life, bellow,
let Field and all its creatures shake the rafters;
Then the trees in the forest will add their applause
to all who are pleased and present before God
—he’s on his way to set things right! Give thanks to God—he is good and his love never quits.
he’s put the earth in place and it’s not moving.
So let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant,
and pass the word among the nations, “God reigns!”
Let Ocean, all teeming with life, bellow,
let Field and all its creatures shake the rafters;
Then the trees in the forest will add their applause
to all who are pleased and present before God
—he’s on his way to set things right! Give thanks to God—he is good and his love never quits.
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