tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19821741861914860852024-02-06T20:42:01.477-07:00These HandsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.comBlogger195125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-32070996145301164852015-06-09T20:40:00.002-06:002015-06-09T20:40:45.926-06:00Because it could be so different....Breaking my blogging 'fast', a rather unexpected break, but one that coincided with life moving at warp speed, and me not wanting to be absent from a second. Lately, I have been reflecting on life, the daily routine we have created, and find myself in awe of it all. And completely unworthy of this blessed life.<br />
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All it takes is a few minutes reading the headline news, or a quick glimpse into the world outside, to realize that our life here on the farm is nothing short of amazing. There, etched in my mind, is a relentless feeling of gratefulness, a voice reminding me that this piece of Heaven on earth that I call home shall not be taken for granted because it could be so much different.<br />
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I'm thankful for the bed of clean sheets.....because it means we have a place to sleep.<br />
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I'm thankful for the piles of laundry....because it means there are plenty of clothes to wear.<br />
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I'm thankful for the leftovers.....because it means nobody went hungry last night.<br />
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I'm thankful for the sticky floors......because it means we have a place to call home.<br />
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I'm thankful for the doctor visits......because it means we have access to healthcare.<br />
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I'm thankful for long nights at the computer.....because it means I have a job that provides.<br />
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I'm thankful for stepping on legos at 6 am......because it means a certain 3-year-old has toys to play with.<br />
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I'm thankful for chocolate chip smudges......because it means we can enjoy a treat every so often.<br />
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I'm thankful for a life I have done nothing to deserve. For a husband whom I love and adore. For a son who keeps us laughing. For a loyal farm dog at my feet. For the ache in my muscles, as it serves to remind me of a good day's work on the farm.<br />
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May we all remember the gift that is today, and the goodness and blessings each day gives, if only we see it. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-60408722421680987592014-10-28T23:33:00.003-06:002014-10-28T23:33:25.382-06:00Harvest SeasonAs the harvest season is nearing its close, I seem to finally have the time to sit and write about the last few months, if only for a moment. It seems like lately, I have been doing less and less of the "living" for technology, and more of the enjoy-life-now. I have been soaking up the sweet hugs and kisses of a growing two year old and taking the time to have one more cup of tea at the table with my husband. I see these other bloggers growing readership and followers, with giveaways and promotions, something I used to believe I too wanted. But, as of late, I have refocused and honed in my attitude and mentality--to grow where I am planted.<br />
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Gone are the days of comparison tactics, of holding up the proverbial measuring stick and seeing where I stack up against the rest. I used to think to myself that if others were capable of thwarting themselves into realms of success, than I too should be able to do so. If others could do it all, why couldn't I?<br />
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And the answer is simple, because I am Me.<br />
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Over the past few months, I've removed most distractions to really hone in on what I feel I should be doing. what is best for my family and I, what matters most to me, my perspective on life, and the how the hours are spent during the day. My conclusion has been undeniably simple--I want to serve Him, my family and friends. I want to go where He wants me to, and I want to be willing and able to do so. If I'm too busy focusing on how everyone else is doing or how I think I should be doing, than I inevitably miss my own calling.<br />
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You see, oftentimes, I will read about recipes, lifestyles, business ventures, blogging opportunities, homesteading operations, and I instantly feel as though I am drinking from a fire hose. Better yet, a geyser. The information can easily become overwhelming, simply pouring off the pages, leaving me treading water in a sea of unfulfilled expectation, implicated only by myself.<br />
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So, during this season of harvest and thanksgiving, I am reflecting on the deliberate life I live, and how much I enjoy living the life He gave me. The dream of feeding people continues to thrive here, as we have given away a few hundred pounds of food. Every time a basket or a bag of food leaves the farm, I feel a sense of pride and purpose, knowing that the food is going where it should. My hands are callused from the season and my muscles ache daily, but my heart is overflowing with love and pride for this land. This farm has become part of us, a simple dream to an answered prayer.<br />
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A prayer that He answers in His timing....<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-87194141659413170722014-08-05T16:20:00.000-06:002014-08-05T16:20:09.953-06:00One farm, one horse, three goatsIt's been awhile since I took the time to post on ye olde blog, so let's give a quick rundown, shall we?<br />
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So far, we harvested a couple hundred pounds of produce, much of that being squash. The food pantry in town received most of it, while we shared with neighbors, friends, and friends of friends. The lettuce and spinach were devoured, the corn frozen, and the cucumbers are pickling. We lost a good amount of corn to the worms this year, but the horse and goats have had a blast eating the whole stalk.<br />
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The tomatoes are coming in nicely, and the okra loved last weeks rain. Green beans will hit the freezer this week, and I look forward to enjoying them this winter.<br />
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The farm looks like this:<br />
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It's our own secret garden out there, so peaceful and GREEN!! Such a change from our usual brown!<br />
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And in other news, our neighbor gave us a horse. Yes, a horse. He is the most kind and caring man, a rancher by trade, and his aging horse cannot be used to corralling cattle any longer, so she is with us now :) Her name is Laura, and we plan to breed her next spring, and give AJ, his very own horse.<br />
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We also now have 3 goats (2 of whom are pregnant) courtesy of our same neighbor. This farm is a-growin' folks and we couldn't be happier.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-62198929749430895492014-05-28T17:13:00.002-06:002014-05-28T17:13:49.395-06:00The Days Are LongThe days are long, but oh so wonderful.<br />
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We have been busy on the farm.<br />
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Planting, planning, praying.<br />
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We fall to into bed, completely exhausted and utterly happy.<br />
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This, our dream, is happening.<br />
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And with His perfect timing, we had five days of rain.<br />
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It was the blessings pouring out from Heaven.<br />
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With every rain drop that fell, we sent prayers of thanksgiving, envisioning those who are hungry, coming the farm to fill their bellies and their baskets.<br />
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We pray for a great harvest, but already feel undeniably blessed to be the worker's for His purpose. It is for His glory, and we are but humble farmers.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-28563209719379006552014-03-30T17:18:00.000-06:002014-03-30T17:18:46.782-06:00No, We're Not Busy...So often I hear (and have said), following a passive "How are you?" immediately responded with "Busy".<br />
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When did busy become a rite of passage.<br />
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When did busy replace, healthy, happy, or wonderful.<br />
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When did busy become a state of mind and being, rather than a choice.<br />
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Something clicked in me a few weeks ago, and since then, this household has a change in schedule. This type-A Mama has thrown out the normal routine and traded it for something completely different, these times here are a-changin'.<br />
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So other than scheduled work for me and classes for my husband, we are not scheduling anything. We are working on living in the moment and allowing the day to take us where it may. Thus far, we have had more time for each other, spent more play time with AJ, accomplished many house projects, taken many more naps, tried new recipes, given baths at noon, and worked the land on the farm.<br />
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You could say that by unscheduling our lives, we have actually made more time for those things that matter. The laundry still gets washed. The house is cleaned. The meals are made. The land is tilled. And yet there is more time now than ever.<br />
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We have made time to visit with neighbors and take drives down country roads. We have finished projects we have been meaning to accomplish.<br />
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So yes, to some this is <i>busy. </i>But I don't want to classify this life and busy. We've been living, loving, and laughing. Nothing more, nothing less.<br />
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We have been working on becoming more intentional with our time, treasuring moments together. I have laughed more and smiled more in these past few weeks than I have in my entire life. We are carving out our own little oasis this side of Heaven.<br />
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And here I thought life couldn't get any better.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-79724610469194676922014-02-25T17:27:00.000-07:002014-02-25T17:27:52.525-07:00I'll Never Be a "Jones"....It's safe to say that the adage of "keeping up with the Jones'" doesn't exist around here.<br />
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In fact, they bypassed us eons ago. But, if I'm being totally honest, that's how we like it.<br />
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We traded corporate paychecks for time together.<br />
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We traded coffee shop lattes for freshly brewed coffee at the kitchen table.<br />
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We traded business attire for overalls and cowboy boots.<br />
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We traded hefty 401K's for a modest paycheck that pays the bills.<br />
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We traded dinners out to eat for homemade meals 3 times a day, 7 days a week.<br />
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And while I commend those who go after and attain the things they desire, we are focused on one thing: how we spend our time. The number one regret people have is not having enough time to spend with loved ones, or pursue a passion, or achieve a dream. So while the outside world may look on and wonder why we chose this life, the answer is simple: we enjoy our time. </div>
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I spend every day alongside my husband (and no, we don't drive each other nuts :) ). I work from home, and he goes to school from home. We farm here at home. We go to town when necessary, and usually together. Our dream is being lived out on this piece of Heaven on earth, and we willingly give the time necessary to cultivate and grow those dreams. </div>
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We only have so many trips around the sun, and we plan on spending each one of those side by side, walking the road less traveled, hand in hand. </div>
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We stop to enjoy the roses, after all, there's plenty of time.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-75865157563250869882014-02-14T22:21:00.000-07:002014-02-14T22:21:17.127-07:00To My BuddyWith just an hour left on his birthday, I sit down to strike away at the keys and etch in time, a year's worth of memories, moments of laughter, and heartfelt embraces, all from a little 2 year old.<br />
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Only now my son, you aren't so little.<br />
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I choke back tears, looking in awe at the little man you are today. I fight the tears, because there are Mama's and Dada's who don't know what it feels like to have to arms swing open with wild abandon and clench around your neck so tight, that the air escapes your lungs, and for a moment you are left breathless not by the impact, but by the fact that this small person, this once tiny infant, loves you that much.<br />
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My son, I love you that much.<br />
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I love the fact that come morning I know you will search the house and find your new toy airplanes and trucks opened today, but you will be wild with excitement tomorrow when you realize that they are, in fact, yours to keep. I love that you were happy to play in the field, and that we played cowboys and indians, with Grandma and Grandpa right there. I love that tomorrow we are extending the celebrating, and embracing another opportunity to encompass a full day about <i>you. </i><br />
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You have a tenacity for life, an inability to believe you can't do everything. You look towards the Heavens, and I know you know God. He has given you a stubborn streak a mile wide, but one that I find refreshing. You believe in yourself and you believe in those around you. I can feel you pressing me forward when I want to give up, a head-strong reminder that there is someone out there believing in me and always cheering me on. You test boundaries and push limits, but you do so, because you believe you can do more. That somehow everything will work out. Never lose that, it is a trait most adults forget about, but faith in your abilities and in yourself is priceless.<br />
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You are now two years old. I could say it flew by, but the truth is, I can't remember life before you. And I don't want to.<br />
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You are such a part of this family, a piece to the puzzle, that I find myself, praying for morning just to have more time with you. Your dad and I, will fail time and time again to convey how much we love you, and how proud we are of you. You are the gift we thank the Heavens for everyday. And tomorrow when we celebrate another day of you, I will take a moment and fight back the tears, wondering how on earth I deserve you.<br />
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Being your Mama is an honor.....<br />
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And I will love you forever, promise promise.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-16151548844199819202014-01-14T17:14:00.001-07:002014-01-14T17:14:57.003-07:00Like Mama says, "When you name a puppy, you'll keep it"And just like when you give a stray a name, when you give a farm a name, it becomes <i>yours.</i><br />
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In all our great brainstorming, in all our efforts to sound catchy and unique, we came upon the name, or rather my husband did: Humble Farms.<br />
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Humble because we are two mere people with nothing but a few seeds and a dream.<br />
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Humble because this endeavor is etched out on a forgotten back lot.<br />
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Humble because our great state is experiencing severe drought and yet, we pray for rain for the harvest.<br />
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Humble because we are not experienced farmers, but one content editor/wife/mother and one cowboy/college student/husband/father who refuse to believe that dreams aren't worth chasing.<br />
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Humble because we don't plan to sell much, but rather give these goods for nourishment and sustenance.<br />
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Humble because we had plans to improve the house and instead, believe God wants the funds spent in the garden.<br />
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Humble because we may appear to have so little and yet feel undeniably blessed.<br />
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Humble because life has amazed us at every turn.<br />
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<i>1 Peter 5:6 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time."</i><br />
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Our hands will plant the seeds, but it is by His hands that this is all happening.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0q97yUFdEelVXSaSlb7j1DdteQrie3dXXC_htsf2hK2skUAKTfEF_4UVi2Z-iWZvJgl7OBhyphenhyphenOSM-sM43U4jxPNWadHnelRp602fuqcWXwQGWTGRmUywmT5i6sPCemoUjWr8K_Jn7Hp_Lw/s1600/Nov+2013+140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0q97yUFdEelVXSaSlb7j1DdteQrie3dXXC_htsf2hK2skUAKTfEF_4UVi2Z-iWZvJgl7OBhyphenhyphenOSM-sM43U4jxPNWadHnelRp602fuqcWXwQGWTGRmUywmT5i6sPCemoUjWr8K_Jn7Hp_Lw/s400/Nov+2013+140.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the littlest farmer</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-60385957697657270722013-12-28T07:48:00.001-07:002013-12-28T07:48:25.573-07:00The Best Gift Ever....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
We hope you had a Merry Christmas....<br />
<br />
And many blessings in the New Year.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-67484260215258254602013-12-12T16:48:00.000-07:002013-12-12T16:48:27.768-07:00Just a momentA quick picture, one of our chilly days here on the farm....<br />
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<br />
<br />
I do so enjoy this time of year. I have also vowed to slow down and not do anything that makes me anything less than a happy mama and wife.<br />
<br />
We don't eat a lot of cookies (and we don't consume white sugar or white flour) so I have a recipe I'm going to try out and that's it.<br />
<br />
I don't decorate with too many things as we are minimalists here, and prefer space over knick-knacks and decor (I do love looking at homes that put out beautiful decorations and design so well, I'm just a more functional type person. That, and when I dust, I can't stand to have to move a bunch of things....and dust on a farm is a losing battle :) ).<br />
<br />
We also don't have a lot of plans. We like to cozy up at night and watch movies and read books, make homemade hot chocolate with freshly whipped cream. Everyone has their favorite blanket and favorite spot.<br />
<br />
We are reveling in this time together, and both my husband and I are excited to watch AJ as he soaks up this season. There is something so special about Christmas at his age.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-13062301649917427782013-11-23T17:41:00.001-07:002013-11-27T15:41:18.850-07:00Build the Ark And They Will ComeI wrote not too long ago, about how my husband and I were praying for a piece of land to farm, a little swatch of earth to till and work, to water and grow a great harvest.<br />
<br />
Last week, I received a call from my husband. He took it upon himself to humbly ask the gentleman who owns a pasture behind our house, if he would be interested in leasing us a parcel. Something small and manageable. Something just big enough to begin our dreams.<br />
<br />
Within minutes, they had struck up a deal and we are now leasing a piece of the pasture!!<br />
<br />
It is absolutely amazing to watch as these dreams quickly come into fruition. My husband has already begun the task of taking down the overgrown weeds and trapping the pests living back there. He's writing up plans to build a drip system, run water lines, turn in manure, expand the compost, lay rows, till the land, and build a fence. He's collected materials (mostly donated by our kind rancher/neighbor) and laid plans to build the gate from our backyard to what will be our garden! It is so exciting!<br />
<br />
In this season of harvest, we feel such a gratefulness for all that has been given to us. We hope that by the Spring, we are contributing food to those whose cabinets lay bare and to those who find themselves wondering how their little ones will eat. We want to grow the food that will nourish the bodies of the people who need it.<br />
<br />
We want to make a difference.<br />
<br />
God has given us the means and the land, the motivation and the provisions. Now we go to work.<br />
<br />
(One day, I hope to have a cow that I can milk and make butter, cheese, cream, and yogurt from. Then, the wealth can be shared even more so. All in due time.)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-15200404007159585392013-11-12T16:42:00.001-07:002013-11-12T19:53:24.246-07:00With Thankfulness I adore this time of year, reading blog posts about what people are thankful for everyday. It warms my heart to see so much goodwill and appreciation, something I know I could do a lot more of every single day.<br />
<br />
I had aspirations of coming here, to this place, and writing down each day something that I am thankful for. But then I realized, I don't want to. I don't want to take away the time to delegate to the computer, when I could be talking about dairy cows with the neighbor. I don't want to miss reaching out to the postman to ask about his new granddaughter. I don't want to take AJ out of my lap, in the middle of reading stories to sit at my desk. I don't want to halt a conversation with my husband to work in this space.<br />
<br />
I wish I had more time for these things, and I suppose the fault lies within me. I choose to spend my time elsewhere, and thus this little place I etched out goes neglected awhile longer. Be that as it may, I do enjoy a moment here or there. And that leads me to what I am most grateful for.<br />
<br />
I have three men in my life who consume my days.<br />
<br />
God.<br />
<br />
Husband.<br />
<br />
And my son.<br />
<br />
Those three take all my time and attention, as they should. Most of the time, the three are intermixed. Just yesterday while I was washing the dishes, AJ was excitedly helping me with his own bowls and spoons. Looking out over the window, I see my husband helping with our neighbors horses. There he is a real live cowboy, riding horses and looking so handsome in his Stetson. My heart swoons and melts just like it did seven years ago.<br />
<br />
That hardworking cowboy....he's not one for romance or fancy gifts. He doesn't show public displays of affection, nor is he overly supportive of Valentine's Day. He knows I don't wear diamonds, and he seldom sends flowers. But he is everything and more.<br />
<br />
He is selfless and kind, hardworking and patient. He drops everything to help someone out. He places his family above all else. He gave up a career for me. He is loyal beyond measure and stands by his word. His heart is steady and true.<br />
<br />
I'm thankful to have such a man who is simple, genuine, and faithful.<br />
<br />
He always says, "Life isn't complicated, people complicate it". Much like marriage and family.<br />
<br />
I will always sing songs of thanksgiving to God for this wonderful life.<br />
<br />
That little boy who continually challenges me and teaches me. I can't help but sit in awe at this amazing little man who refuses to have the world hold him back. He is a firecracker and I adore his inability to do anything in moderation. He has a passion for life that is unsurpassed by anyone I know, and he can have you forgetting his tantrums with the quick wisp of a smile and those cheeky dimples of his.<br />
<br />
Most of all, I am thankful to God for whom without none of the above would even exist. His unconditional love and forgiveness has rendered me speechless time and time again.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swoon, every time</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-21819087805470924192013-10-03T16:33:00.002-06:002013-10-03T16:33:43.760-06:00On Strong ShouldersMy husband and I have been venturing out on an extreme workout routine.<br />
<br />
One that involves flipping a tractor tire....<br />
<br />
Over and over and over....<br />
<br />
Then pulling said tire across a field...<br />
<br />
And back again....<br />
<br />
Taking a sledge hammer overhead and repeatedly pounding on the tire...<br />
<br />
Why, you ask?<br />
<br />
Because the calling God has for our lives demands us to be strong.<br />
<br />
If we are to work in the fields, if we are to grow an abundance of food for the people who need it, then we must be of sturdy stock. We do this everyday, continually growing stronger and stronger, with muscles stretching and growing, our hearts beating faster and faster, the sweat pouring from our brows. We run with purpose. We trudge on with purpose.<br />
<br />
We don't know when or where God will open the doors for us to receive the land necessary to grow food to feed the hungry, but we do know that we will be as strong and as fit as we can possibly muster. When I'm not working in the garden, working around the house, or working my job to pay the bills, I'm flipping a tire. AJ thinks it is the most hilarious thing he has ever seen and enjoys his view from his Nana's lap on the John Deere tractor. That little mighty spectator even has his own little bike tire and rubber mallet as he seeks to grow strong like Mama and Daddy.<br />
<br />
We hope he will join us in the fields one day, happy to meet the need of others and do the work set out before us.<br />
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<br />
(Yes, he is quite a cutie, dimples and all)<br />
<br />
I've never been this strong before. In fact, I was always the twiggy, frail girl who couldn't do much on her own. I never thought much of myself, nor did I expect much of myself. But now I have big dreams and lofty goals. I know I'm preparing to build the fields that will feed the hungry bellies of those who need it, by the strength of our backs, by the sweat of our brows, by His provision and dream, we will reap a great harvest.<br />
<br />
In due time.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-67959467011542417312013-09-19T14:25:00.001-06:002013-09-19T14:25:10.199-06:00Sitting in AweI have little in the way of words these days, but I do know, my heart is overflowing....<br />
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<br />
And some days, when the world seems like too much, I look at the men in my life, and thank God for this life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-70461943282802262052013-09-07T17:44:00.001-06:002013-09-07T17:46:58.711-06:00These Dreams are a-Changin'I wondered how long it would take me to gather the courage to write this post.<br />
<br />
Something about putting my thoughts down to words seems to make them concrete, to give them life.<br />
<br />
For some time now, my husband and I have known that God was working through us and would be demanding much of us. We felt something deep in our bones that told us to hold on, to trust in the future, and to be willing to do what was asked. So we waited, and waited, and waited.<br />
<br />
We prayed harder than we ever had before.<br />
<br />
And then the other day, my husband came home and told me what he was to do. He wants to start a non-profit here in our little town to help the youth with their futures as well as meet the needs of the day to day. He wants to provide activities and education, kind of like a Boys and Girls club with counseling and physical activities. My husband is not the type to speak lightly of such situations, rather he is the type who chews on an idea for awhile before speaking up. I know his heart, and I know when he says that this is something he feels called to do, than by gosh it will get done. God spoke to his heart, and he listened.<br />
<br />
I kid you not, within a week or so of him telling me this, I was washing up the supper dishes when I heard the answer to my prayers. Not only will we establish a safe haven for adolescents, but we will also grow a garden that will exist for the sole purpose of feeding others. There will be no cost, just an opportunity for others to receive nourishing food, free of charge.<br />
<br />
I have no idea how these endeavors will be funded, but I know who will fund them. He will give us a way, guide us in a direction, allow us to be the feet and hands to His work. And we will labor tirelessly and joyously, without regard for the amount of pay. We have seen mountains move, and lives change because of the awesome God we serve.<br />
<br />
Forgive my silence on this here blog. We have had lots to think about these past few weeks. For now, we continue to pray that God would give us the tools we need to do His work, and that He would provide us with the patience and persistence necessary to carry out an endeavor like this.<br />
<br />
We don't know when or how this all will come to fruition, but we are excited to see what the days hold. For now, we continue to work our own little piece of land, in order to learn from our mistakes and bless those we can with our food. There was a time when we had little in the way of food, but we have been blessed beyond all comprehension. Nary a meal passes over our table without my husband and I both feeling a deep-seeded gratefulness for such a gift. I still cry at the sight of a full pantry.....there is a need and we plan to do what we can to meet it.<br />
<br />
My request is this, if you would (and by no means should you feel obligated to), will you pray for us?<br />
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May you have a blessed weekend.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-39699603718391772112013-08-22T16:34:00.002-06:002013-08-22T16:34:26.810-06:00Praying More than TalkingWe had a nasty virus hit our house the past two weeks, and with it came the abrupt silence on yee old blog.<br />
<br />
I was down for the count, doing my best to just work and make meals for the table. My day to day, got up and left with my get up and go.<br />
<br />
I've been known to nurse a cough for weeks on end, and I am hoping that my cough will soon leave me be, and that I can get back to figuring out how to do most of it all. Luckily, the hubby managed to steer clear of the bug and the kiddo, while he did get sick, seemed to bounce back pretty quickly after the doctor prescribed a few meds for an upper respiratory infection.<br />
<br />
Beyond all the illness, I have found that with the current state of the house, I have found myself praying more than ever.<br />
<br />
I pray for families with sick kiddos and the strength to endure those days. I pray for rain and for the farmers, for a bountiful and fruitful harvest in the fields. I pray for the garden out back, a blessing for the table. I pray for continued health for my husband and son. I pray that my own body would recover, quickly. I pray that I would do my best every day at work, and that my job, would continue to be a blessing in our home.<br />
<br />
And then, I pray for the really heavy things.<br />
<br />
I pray that God would remove fear from my life, that I would live to be a blessing to others. I pray for God to mold me and shape me, to help me become a better wife and mother. I pray for the seed of contentment and the ability to recognize when I am coveting someone else's home, achievements, abilities, etc. I pray that the pangs of the past would release me from my apprehensions and aversions.<br />
<br />
But above all, I pray with thanksgiving. My eyes have been a little teary lately, as I look around at all that I have. There is a moment almost every night, when dinner is done, the house is settling down, and we all join together in the living room. There is so much laughter that the walls seem to bellow with us. We play with toys and puzzles, we cuddle and share hugs, we give piggy-back rides, and play fetch with Molly. There is a hilarity the ensues when we are altogether, an on-set of laughter as the sunsets and giggles begin. Without fail, each night, I catch myself smiling with tears in my eyes. This life is all mine. These boys love me, one man and one wee little one. This quiet country road, with our beautiful home, was all given to us by Him.<br />
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With prayerful thanksgiving, and a grateful heart, we begin anew each day.<br />
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And come sunset, we will laugh and sing and play, together.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-23152035398004387382013-08-05T16:53:00.003-06:002013-08-05T16:53:47.608-06:00Beginning the Catch UpWelp, this little piece of me went neglected for longer than I anticipated.<br />
<br />
For weeks now, I keep telling myself the second I have a moment, I will sit down and get to work on a post, and then....<br />
<br />
The garden needs to be watered.<br />
<br />
There are veggies to harvest.<br />
<br />
The kiddo wants to color.<br />
<br />
My husband is free, so we sit to catch up.<br />
<br />
I have a job that puts food on the table, and thus, demands my time :)<br />
<br />
There are meals to prepare.<br />
<br />
There is laundry to fold.<br />
<br />
There is a house to clean.<br />
<br />
There is company to entertain from out of town.<br />
<br />
And, thus you get my point.<br />
<br />
So let's start with the garden. This year, I wanted to collect my hard-earned lessons from the two previous years, and make an attempt to have a bountiful harvest. While it's not always comfortable working beneath the heat of the Texas sun, there is something so satisfying about growing a plant from seed, and having that plant give off a nutritious addition to the day's meals. Thus far, I have harvested the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>45 lbs of yellow summer squash</li>
<li>10 lbs of yellow onions</li>
<li>multiple cuts of spinach, with another crop to come this fall</li>
<li>a handful of green beans with more this week (yay!)</li>
<li>5 lbs of basil</li>
<li>lettuce</li>
<li>ornamental pumpkins</li>
<li>lavender</li>
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The basil was turned into pesto and frozen for dishes to come in the winter. We love to use it on homemade pasta or homemade pizza. Half of the onions were also frozen for beef and chicken stock later this fall. I have never had beans grow to the point of giving off fruit, so those little ones have been treasured! And the ornamental pumpkins were a complete accident, a product of a mix up at the seed company! But we have enjoyed having them around the house. Also, the squash has been eaten, frozen, given away for a cookout, and used to barter. </div>
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This fall, I am planning on a garlic bed, spinach, lettuce, and hopefully some cabbage.</div>
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As for the kiddo, he is growing like a weed, and turning into quite the independent little boy. He is stubborn and wild, happy and joyful, friendly and kind, and a pistol when he is upset :) </div>
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And I absolutely adore him.</div>
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He is also my right-hand guy when it comes to watering. He already such a hardworkin' kid, he loves to help out with chores!</div>
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My husband's mom had to unexpected leave town for five weeks to take care of her mother (she is fine now :) ) but that meant that my husband was running her farm while tending to home and school. I picked up the slack here, while working for the editing company that I have been with since January. Luckily, I am able to work from home, so the little guy doesn't feel the pinch when mom and dad are exhausted from working, he just happily goes about his day at home, and never has to be shuffled to and fro. In fact, he goes to help daddy some days at the farm....</div>
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So while this may not be the most exciting post ever, it is a journal of sorts for our family, a way to remember this time in our lives. I wouldn't change a moment of it, and find the routine to be soothing. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-56953490953536378852013-07-28T22:55:00.001-06:002013-07-28T22:55:48.040-06:00I'm Here!I'm working on a catch up post, but it is oodles long, so here is just a little pick me up....<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-H5z5Pl-kURU7PNkObNm16AyflhgXRWrfhXNk951mj1oJ3shcmRQmYnGRIPrzNz21BGAK1FwCQ4aYkTgC1Ez2J99_E4AlnFq4DUPmACoQT-1HlRsAkloljgfO0G1VPWzF0n8wb-0lufWB/s1600/3618_682672301748494_2051367149_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-H5z5Pl-kURU7PNkObNm16AyflhgXRWrfhXNk951mj1oJ3shcmRQmYnGRIPrzNz21BGAK1FwCQ4aYkTgC1Ez2J99_E4AlnFq4DUPmACoQT-1HlRsAkloljgfO0G1VPWzF0n8wb-0lufWB/s400/3618_682672301748494_2051367149_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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For the record, next to marrying my husband, this kiddo is the best thing to happen to me.</div>
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By a landslide.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-41872810264596157572013-07-16T16:47:00.001-06:002013-07-16T16:47:14.825-06:00When Life Gets Busy....I could apologize for my lack of blogging, but in reality, summer is a bustling time between family visiting, working every day, and tending the garden, I have done my best to live in the moment.<br />
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I mean really be present.<br />
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I've been retraining my brain to think in a different way, where I no longer wonder or worry about the future or what could be, rather I just <i>be</i>.<br />
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What a difference it has made!! All those years of worry just melted away, and I found myself laughing with my family more, sleeping better, and accomplishing more throughout the day!<br />
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That's a win-win-win in my book!<br />
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And last week was the icing on the cake, as my parents came out for a visit. We haven't seen them in a whole year, and as you can imagine, one week just flew by.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, he really is this cute :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Helping Mama water the garden</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa's feet must have been dirty!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Talkin' with Grandma</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making Grandma's chocolate flourless mousse cake</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silly Grandpa!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3SkLcvSaRx_ObKqBFlQecf1B0328CmLgjSaeRCaDbdf6Y4E480G8TjnskXvNPbn1E8cFSTI8JJxo57C0n3Qy51is90sOGg8kh8Qzk5cx-9ydXJ-2M8hkJeOAo15ClUTEPrK3pgrtXX_J/s1600/Visit2013+425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3SkLcvSaRx_ObKqBFlQecf1B0328CmLgjSaeRCaDbdf6Y4E480G8TjnskXvNPbn1E8cFSTI8JJxo57C0n3Qy51is90sOGg8kh8Qzk5cx-9ydXJ-2M8hkJeOAo15ClUTEPrK3pgrtXX_J/s400/Visit2013+425.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loves</td></tr>
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And now, with the house all quiet and the company back in California, God has blessed Texas with 70 degree weather and plenty of rain. For us Texans, especially in northern Texas, the drought has been horrid the past four years, and we never see rain this late in summer. Everyone is breathing a sigh of relief and thanking God for giving this quenched earth some very unexpected rain. It has been glorious, revitalizing our spirits and enriching the land.<br />
<br />
What a blessed life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-7721390808742648212013-07-01T10:37:00.001-06:002013-07-01T10:37:26.160-06:00Pick Me, Pick MeSince the days of dodge ball and otter pops, when chocolate milk and root beer lip balm was all a girl needed, and everyone was a best friend, there resonates within us the need and the want to be included.<br />
<br />
No one wants to be picked last at dodge ball.<br />
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No one wants to be left out of the birthday party.<br />
<br />
No one wants to be told over and over that everyone else is "too busy" to stop and give a minute.<br />
<br />
I remembered the feeling of being left out, especially left out of the fun when I was growing up. I had friends (thank the good Lord above), but there were times, when others didn't know me, that I wasn't included. I've always been too tall, too awkward, with unruly red hair and freckles galore. I get embarrassed easily, and when singled out or asked a question directly, I secretly wish I could be absorbed by the walls surrounding me.<br />
<br />
All this to say, this evening when I was putting dinner together, AJ was at my feet and he was begging me to play with him. Of course, I have yet to figure out how to make myself appear in two places at once so I settled for giving him a bowl and unopened spices. He sat there, as content as could be, happy to be included in the "cooking". I was able to toss together dinner, while we cooked alongside one another, neither feeling left out or excluded.<br />
<br />
But isn't that how life is?<br />
<br />
We want to be asked.<br />
<br />
We don't want to be picked last.<br />
<br />
We want someone, somebody to include us.<br />
<br />
AJ doesn't ask for much. All he wants is someone to build legos with, a helping hand to take him outside, and the occasional cooking adventure in the kitchen. It's not much, but it means everything to him.<br />
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(He picked me flowers :) )<br />
<br />
And so it means everything to me.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-88873576510087828042013-06-16T13:31:00.000-06:002013-06-16T13:31:22.241-06:00Father's DayWhile my Daddy lives thousands of miles away, today I celebrate with my husband and his role in this family, as a husband and a father.<br />
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He's one hardworkin' cowboy.<br />
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Happy Father's Day to all those Dads out there....the soon to be, the yet to be, and the tenured ones....here's to you.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-85851878978532207502013-06-09T20:57:00.000-06:002013-06-09T20:57:33.781-06:00Giving UpNo, this is not going to be a recollection of all my downfalls and my pitfalls.<br />
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That is what I would have done not too long ago. In fact, that is what I have been trying desperately to turn away from.<br />
<br />
That pesky seven letter word. The one we all try to achieve and fool ourselves daily into believing.<br />
<br />
<i>Perfect.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
It's official folks, I'm not perfect. And it is so exhilarating to say that!! I have many, many flaws, so many that I have fought tooth and nail to hide them away. I always thought that if I was thin enough no one would notice the fact that I am tall, too tall to wear heels and just tall enough to be awkward. Then I thought if I was the top of the class no one would notice how my face beamed red with embarrassment whenever I was called on, fearful of making a mistake. I thought if I was the wife who did it all and was soft-spoken then I could be remembered as the sweet, kind little wife. Once I became I a mom, I thought surely I could juggle it all and do it flawlessly.<br />
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Oh how wrong I was.<br />
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I am a woman who can move dressers around a bedroom without any help because God made me strong. I am smart and intelligent through the determination that God has laid upon my heart and my mind. I am not meek and I speak my mind, but I try to do so in a way that He sees fit. I drop the balls that I juggle often, but I refuse to let them lay there listlessly on the floor, so I pick them up, and start over again.<br />
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The past few months, I have done what I have always wanted to do.<br />
<br />
I gave myself a break. I realize that days cannot be molded and shaped into what you want them to be. Rather, I have learned (and continue to learn!) to be flexible and to take it all in stride. I have plenty of road to travel, but I look forward to the journey. There is a freedom nestled between the giving up and the giving in. I think it's called living.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-59431695256115754672013-05-31T22:16:00.001-06:002013-05-31T22:16:29.099-06:00A Lifetime of Stories(I had no intention of taking such a long break from blogging, but we have been blessed with company in town, two weeks in a row, and I decided to live in the moment, and be present for all the laughs and all the stories. There will be quite a few posts coming up, as I have scribbled them down, lest I forget :) )<br />
<br />
My grandfather has been here for a week long visit, which means there is an extra cup of coffee to make in the morning, another place setting at the table, another person to laugh with, and a whole lifetime of stories.<br />
<br />
There is something about grandparents, they have the best stories. I count myself undeniably blessed to have this time with him, to hold tight to his childhood memories and to hear about the people that I never met, but without them, I wouldn't be here. There are the war stories. The love stories. The we-lived-through-hard-time stories. And there are the family secret stories. Each one important and lending itself to the next.<br />
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This past week, I have gained insight and knowledge about generations past, and somehow, I feel more connected to my family ties, it's almost as though their legacy continues to live on through those stories, and by sharing the memories, they are never forgotten.<br />
<br />
I plan on telling AJ all of them one day, reminding him of where he came from, the generational lineage laid out before him. I will tell him of the strong men who worked laboriously and tirelessly to provide for their families, and I will tell him of the kind women who supported and loved those men.<br />
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I will tell him the stories so that he may know just how much he is loved and how he means the world to so many. I will he remind him of the stories so he may remember that while his legacy may not seem grand in the world's eyes, he is the world in ours.<br />
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A legacy is only forgotten if you fail to tell the story.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-8032339276596557962013-05-20T17:02:00.000-06:002013-05-20T17:02:25.154-06:00Living on the PrairieWe live in the panhandle, and tornadoes are part of living here.<br />
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We have had our fair share of close calls, but today I am brought to my knees, asking God to guide the first responders to all those who are hurting and scared. Praying for those who are displaced and without a home this evening.<br />
<br />
May we all bombarde the gates of Heaven with prayers for refuge, rescue, and safe harbor.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05275909775932657243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1982174186191486085.post-33534737745996604282013-05-14T20:15:00.000-06:002013-05-14T20:33:16.213-06:00Humble BeginningsMy wish is to stay broke...<br />
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Yep you read that right, but lest you think I have plum lost my mind let me explain.<br />
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When I have the least, I give the most.<br />
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When I have little, I remember to rely on God for not only His provisions, but also His comfort and His love. My husband and I have talked for days on end about this, and we both agree, we tend to pull away from God when life is <i>easy</i>, but with cling to Him with fervor and earnest when we find ourselves in tight spots. There has been feast and there has been famine in our household, and while we are grateful for every moment and all the in between times, we feel the greatest love rooted in our trust that all will be provided for. In the lean times, we witness the raw love and compassion of God and others.<br />
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I welcome anything that may come, as I welcome the sunrise in the morning. I see others accomplishing great things, attaining their dreams, buying their dream home, and I am genuinely happy for them because I am genuinely happy. There is a joy that has taken hold in my heart, an overflowing sense of bliss.<br />
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Few things are certain in life, and of those, I can count on these:<br />
<br />
1. I never want to become too big for my humble lifestyle.<br />
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2. I don't want to forget the feeling of the sun shining down on me as I work beneath the Texas sky, planting and praying for a bountiful harvest.<br />
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3. I want to remain in a state of utter gratefulness for all that I have, and while I look, remember that if someone said they needed this or that more than me, that I be willing to give of these things.<br />
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4. I never want to forget the overwhelming appreciation of full cabinets. There are children who go hungry everyday, and AJ, never feels the pangs of hunger. As a parent, all you want for your children is a safe and happy life, to be unable to give them nourishment for their growing bodies must be unfathomably difficult. I pray for those sweet children.<br />
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5. I want to look at life as a glass-completely full girl. Forget half-full. God granted me with another day, and the ability to go out to the world and change it.<br />
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6. Lastly, I want to hold moments close to my heart. Moments of laughter and joy, family dinners, a silly kiddo at bathtime, coffee at the kitchen table with the hubby, mornings spent in the garden, playing chase with Molly and AJ, watching the wind rustle in the trees, thunderstorms rolling across the prairie, the smell of homemade bread, holding my beloved's hand just because.<br />
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If life is supposed to be any different than nobody tell me.<br />
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And if this is broke, than I'm the richest girl in the world.<br />
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