This may be the only time you will see me quote "Huffington Post" but the Huffington Post reports that Black Friday Deals begin at 6:00 PM today. Thanksgiving Day. Hold on while I put on my tin foil hat . . .
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/26/walmart-black-friday-2013-deals_n_4276573.html
Have you noticed the continuous erosion of family values? The one day of the year that many families focus on a meal and sit down together, is now one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Doesn't this seem a little coincidental to anyone? What does this say about what we hold dear? What does this show our children? Is saving a few dollars really worth it? Is it really worth rushing through a day with family and friends to go out and stand in line.
I have to admit, I am all about a good deal and I love to shop BUT . . . can't we draw a line somewhere? Can't we hold one day dear and focus on family? Or are we just going to push past that line a little more every year until Thanksgiving day is Black Thursday? Because that is what is going to happen.
Today and tomorrow mean BIG BUCKS to credit card companies and corporations. You better believe that is the bottom line. It's not about you and saving you money. It is a big competition on who has the highest proceeds. Spend, SPEND, SPEND! Your children will love you because you got them the latest and greatest toy. Awesome.
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Present and Future
When I was a little girl, I wanted nothing more than to be a veterinarian. I wanted to be a vet, not because of the prestige of being a doctor, but because I loved animals. When people asked what I wanted to be when I grew up and I told them my passion, they would automatically mention this career choice. It's a common reaction when the subject of career come up . . . be a doctor, a teacher, a lawyer or maybe even the next president of the United States.
But where would we be without those who like working on cars, have a passion for building or raising children. What kind of values are we instilling in our children that they need to fit into these career choices. Sure there is nothing wrong with going for the big goal, the ultimate achievement but sometimes I wonder if we miss our calling in trying to follow these golden paths.
We praise those who go to college, achieve that degree and go on to work for someone else but somehow discount the person who took a risk and walked a different road. We strive for safety and not for what we are ultimately called to do.
When I began college, I wanted to be a vet. I took Chemistry 101 and failed miserably. I changed my major . . . eventually I ended up striving toward a career that was safe . . . teaching. I could do teaching right? Have a few kids . . . be off in the summer and all holidays . . . and after all, I love children. So that was the plan. I graduated college and went on to get my teaching credential in special education.
But there was a problem here. Our plans are not exactly the same as God's Plan. I had my life planned out for what worked best for me, my family and my career. MY IDEA of what worked out best. My concern is that I believe this is what we do to our children when preparing them for life. This is the norm right? I mean how many would tell their daughters they can always stay home and homeschool their children and run a youth ranch/horse rescue.
But what is ultimately amazing about this . . . when I was a little girl I loved horses. I grew up figuring that there was one path to do what you were meant to do and that was to be a vet. Well, I may not be a vet or even a teacher in the classroom but I am exactly where I want to be. I spend everyday teaching my children and and then I walk outside and care for the horses, some who need special vetting.
I believe it is important to encourage those special dreams our children have with options. They can be whatever they want to be. Money is not the overall goal but the fact that they are passionate about what they do. It is important that they are not too focused that they miss an opportunity, disguised as not as prestigious or important. Those are the divine appointments.
But where would we be without those who like working on cars, have a passion for building or raising children. What kind of values are we instilling in our children that they need to fit into these career choices. Sure there is nothing wrong with going for the big goal, the ultimate achievement but sometimes I wonder if we miss our calling in trying to follow these golden paths.
We praise those who go to college, achieve that degree and go on to work for someone else but somehow discount the person who took a risk and walked a different road. We strive for safety and not for what we are ultimately called to do.
When I began college, I wanted to be a vet. I took Chemistry 101 and failed miserably. I changed my major . . . eventually I ended up striving toward a career that was safe . . . teaching. I could do teaching right? Have a few kids . . . be off in the summer and all holidays . . . and after all, I love children. So that was the plan. I graduated college and went on to get my teaching credential in special education.
But there was a problem here. Our plans are not exactly the same as God's Plan. I had my life planned out for what worked best for me, my family and my career. MY IDEA of what worked out best. My concern is that I believe this is what we do to our children when preparing them for life. This is the norm right? I mean how many would tell their daughters they can always stay home and homeschool their children and run a youth ranch/horse rescue.
But what is ultimately amazing about this . . . when I was a little girl I loved horses. I grew up figuring that there was one path to do what you were meant to do and that was to be a vet. Well, I may not be a vet or even a teacher in the classroom but I am exactly where I want to be. I spend everyday teaching my children and and then I walk outside and care for the horses, some who need special vetting.
I believe it is important to encourage those special dreams our children have with options. They can be whatever they want to be. Money is not the overall goal but the fact that they are passionate about what they do. It is important that they are not too focused that they miss an opportunity, disguised as not as prestigious or important. Those are the divine appointments.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Treasure
"Don't collect for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But collect for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don't break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
-Matthew 6:19-21
I have been known to make myself physically ill while reading current events. Spend an evening in our house and you will hear political vomit, appalling news about child abuse/murder and other disturbing news reports. Just as "we are what we eat," we can also be what we surround ourselves with. I have come to realize that marinating ourselves in garbage, produces garbage.
In trying to set my priorities, the above scripture came to mind. We often put aside so much to obtain more. Our culture glorifies glamour and worships fame and fortune. But all that we aquire on this earth stays on this earth. All these "things" are simply that . . . "things." No amount of money or prestige can change that the shiny black car, is really only a shiny black car. It doesn't feel. It doesn't love.
Part of what I am learning about with this homeschooling experience is how little "things" matter. What matters is really so simple.
When Mike and I started the Youth Ranch, we did so because we wanted our life's work to be for God's Kingdom. Children are our treasure and we are commanded to protect and teach our children. What I didn't realize is that they really have so much to teach us about being Godly. What are they learning from me if I am completely engrossed in the evils of the world? How are they to be little lights in a dark world when they grow up without words of hope . . . of TRUTH? What can I expect from them if they see us focus on what money can buy?
This lifestyle we are now living is me trying to be the mother I am not. I'm just not but I want to be. I want to be that Mom who sprawls out on the floor and plays games, not thinking about all that needs to be done. I want my center to be God and family and in order to do that, I have to put that first. And because I am so stubborn about MY WAYS, I have to home school because I know this will FORCE me to sit down. I knew my fear of failing my children would slow me down. And it's working. Today we played. I even thought of an idea for us to engage in pretend play. I felt silly doing it but you know what . . . I didn't think about the state of this world once.
P.S. As I am writing this and deep in thought, I just noticed my son sticking the brain sucker thingy they give you at the hospital when your baby is born, in his nose and making sucking sounds. Gotta love three year olds ( ;
-Matthew 6:19-21
In trying to set my priorities, the above scripture came to mind. We often put aside so much to obtain more. Our culture glorifies glamour and worships fame and fortune. But all that we aquire on this earth stays on this earth. All these "things" are simply that . . . "things." No amount of money or prestige can change that the shiny black car, is really only a shiny black car. It doesn't feel. It doesn't love.
Part of what I am learning about with this homeschooling experience is how little "things" matter. What matters is really so simple.
When Mike and I started the Youth Ranch, we did so because we wanted our life's work to be for God's Kingdom. Children are our treasure and we are commanded to protect and teach our children. What I didn't realize is that they really have so much to teach us about being Godly. What are they learning from me if I am completely engrossed in the evils of the world? How are they to be little lights in a dark world when they grow up without words of hope . . . of TRUTH? What can I expect from them if they see us focus on what money can buy?
This lifestyle we are now living is me trying to be the mother I am not. I'm just not but I want to be. I want to be that Mom who sprawls out on the floor and plays games, not thinking about all that needs to be done. I want my center to be God and family and in order to do that, I have to put that first. And because I am so stubborn about MY WAYS, I have to home school because I know this will FORCE me to sit down. I knew my fear of failing my children would slow me down. And it's working. Today we played. I even thought of an idea for us to engage in pretend play. I felt silly doing it but you know what . . . I didn't think about the state of this world once.
Monday, November 18, 2013
The Virus
This nation suffers from a permeable virus. This virus spreads from generation to generation and through neighbors and friends alike. It's name is passivism but it goes under the name of "tolerance." Passivism hides under tolerance as a more politically correct and thus more acceptable term and lifestyle. We accept more and more when we are affected with this virus. It has been known to erode moral character and integrity. This is the new "normal."
Now the reason I am identifying with this virus of modern day society is because our "alternative lifestyle" does not exactly fit into the "normal." Homeschooling is becoming more and more well-known and accepted, but the stereotype remains. Those who homeschool are often seen as religions extremists, conspiracy theorists, and/or separatists. And although we might fit in to a few of these "labels," this stereotype is simply false. I cannot speak for others but for us, it means that we are taking a stand against the "norm." We do not HAVE to put our children in school all day in order for them to receive a GOOD education. In fact, we can assure a GREAT education right here in our living room. No, it's not easy but when did we all decide EASY was the way? Can our children still get a great education in public schools, absolutely. I am in no way stating that our way is the only or best way.
I walk into a store with my children and am asked if the kids are out of school today. Nope. This is a field trip. I don't mind these questions. I know the path we chose is not the straight road. Growing up in southern California definitely did not prepare me for this choice. But I'm coming to realize that MY plans were not necessarily God's plan. And God's plan, is the only cure for this virus.
Now the reason I am identifying with this virus of modern day society is because our "alternative lifestyle" does not exactly fit into the "normal." Homeschooling is becoming more and more well-known and accepted, but the stereotype remains. Those who homeschool are often seen as religions extremists, conspiracy theorists, and/or separatists. And although we might fit in to a few of these "labels," this stereotype is simply false. I cannot speak for others but for us, it means that we are taking a stand against the "norm." We do not HAVE to put our children in school all day in order for them to receive a GOOD education. In fact, we can assure a GREAT education right here in our living room. No, it's not easy but when did we all decide EASY was the way? Can our children still get a great education in public schools, absolutely. I am in no way stating that our way is the only or best way.
I walk into a store with my children and am asked if the kids are out of school today. Nope. This is a field trip. I don't mind these questions. I know the path we chose is not the straight road. Growing up in southern California definitely did not prepare me for this choice. But I'm coming to realize that MY plans were not necessarily God's plan. And God's plan, is the only cure for this virus.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Simplify
Well, it's happening again . . . the colder weather blows in and the overtime hours diminish. Such is the life in the construction industry. The past few years, I have had my job at Axiom as an income supplement. I could work as many days as needed in the winter and take my kids with me. But this year we gave up that option.
In going over our financial situation yesterday, I found a deficit if Mike is forced to go down to 40 hours a week. My nature is to brainstorm and try to come up with some idea or rearrange some sort of payment arrangement. Here is what I came up with:
Cable-Around $50 a month and useless to us. The news is not reliable, TV shows we like can be found online or on Netflix and we can always rent movies and use the DVD player. CUT!
Gas-One time a week to the store. Lately I have not been very good at this. We have to plan better. CUT!
Food-This is a tough one because quality food costs more than junk food. However with a few changes, we should still be able to save. Our milk and meats are all organic, hormone and GMO free. We try to stick to foods with as few ingredients as possible. If we want cookies, I bake them. We make pizza from scratch. No preservatives and cheap. So, flour, sugar, real butter . . . all single ingredients and inexpensive, esp in bulk.
Let me explain a little why we feel so passionate about this. Have you ever noticed the Amish are healthier than much of America? They do not immunize, they grow and eat their own foods. They have less instances of cancer. Their lifestyle is friendly to the body. It's natural. Here is a link:
http://www.naturalnews.com/027930_Amish_health.html#
Even though they eat REAL butter, raw milk, lard, sugar, etc, they are in better shape. They are ONE ingredient. Have you ever looked at the nutrition info on a tub of margarine? I used to believe that it would be healthier to cut the fat. Everything I bought was nonfat . . . nonfat ranch, ice cream and snacks. These items are not only loaded with cancer causing chemicals and ingredients, but they are often more expensive than just basic ingredients. So cutting out the convenience foods, allows us the extra money to buy local clean meats and milk.
The crazy thing is Mike and I have actually lost weight since we have started this more traditional diet, we feel better and know that our children are eating the best quality possible. Buying locally also supports our local farmers. WIN-WIN!
In going over our financial situation yesterday, I found a deficit if Mike is forced to go down to 40 hours a week. My nature is to brainstorm and try to come up with some idea or rearrange some sort of payment arrangement. Here is what I came up with:
Cable-Around $50 a month and useless to us. The news is not reliable, TV shows we like can be found online or on Netflix and we can always rent movies and use the DVD player. CUT!
Gas-One time a week to the store. Lately I have not been very good at this. We have to plan better. CUT!
Food-This is a tough one because quality food costs more than junk food. However with a few changes, we should still be able to save. Our milk and meats are all organic, hormone and GMO free. We try to stick to foods with as few ingredients as possible. If we want cookies, I bake them. We make pizza from scratch. No preservatives and cheap. So, flour, sugar, real butter . . . all single ingredients and inexpensive, esp in bulk.
Let me explain a little why we feel so passionate about this. Have you ever noticed the Amish are healthier than much of America? They do not immunize, they grow and eat their own foods. They have less instances of cancer. Their lifestyle is friendly to the body. It's natural. Here is a link:
http://www.naturalnews.com/027930_Amish_health.html#
Even though they eat REAL butter, raw milk, lard, sugar, etc, they are in better shape. They are ONE ingredient. Have you ever looked at the nutrition info on a tub of margarine? I used to believe that it would be healthier to cut the fat. Everything I bought was nonfat . . . nonfat ranch, ice cream and snacks. These items are not only loaded with cancer causing chemicals and ingredients, but they are often more expensive than just basic ingredients. So cutting out the convenience foods, allows us the extra money to buy local clean meats and milk.
The crazy thing is Mike and I have actually lost weight since we have started this more traditional diet, we feel better and know that our children are eating the best quality possible. Buying locally also supports our local farmers. WIN-WIN!
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Teachers
I have a new respect for classroom teachers. They are the miracle workers of today's society. They work wonders with nothing. Their funds are being striped away, and they still show up. They teach a new generation of children, many who live in broken homes. The technology veil makes us unavailable to our children and teachers get the brunt of this during the day in the classroom. They have students with a range of disabilities, mentor those who are bullied, work during the day and grade papers at night. Modern day educators don't know how long they will have a job and they spend their own money for curriculum.
I went to school to be a teacher. My career choice was not only because I felt drawn to special education, but also that I believed in education . . . public education. I could have the best of both worlds . . . work in the same district where my children go to school and have the same vacations, days off, etc.
Now here I am homeschooling my children. It's so hard. I feel for every teacher in this country. I have 3 children and I'm struggling. We sit in our living room and do our work and my children interrupt, repeat themselves, stare off into space, etc. I don't have deadlines or test standards. How do they do it?? Teachers are my heroes.
I went to school to be a teacher. My career choice was not only because I felt drawn to special education, but also that I believed in education . . . public education. I could have the best of both worlds . . . work in the same district where my children go to school and have the same vacations, days off, etc.
Now here I am homeschooling my children. It's so hard. I feel for every teacher in this country. I have 3 children and I'm struggling. We sit in our living room and do our work and my children interrupt, repeat themselves, stare off into space, etc. I don't have deadlines or test standards. How do they do it?? Teachers are my heroes.
Monday, November 11, 2013
Curriculum and Common Core
How do I know what curriculum to use / : This year we were blessed by our friends to borrow their "My Father's World" Christian Curriculum. Do we try another next year and then compare? Or will that confuse the kids. Maybe I'm the one confused.
Because I confuse easily, we start with what is most important: prayer and Bible study. Then it's basically a crap shoot on what we get done on a daily basis. But one thing I know for certain, if I am merely capable of teaching my children about our Lord, and basic academic skills and methods of learning, they have more of a chance in the this fallen world.
I have attached a link to some interesting information about what is happening in public schools all over the nation. Even when I am researching curriculum, it is difficult to weed out Common Core.
http://saynotocommoncore.com/
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Field Trips
Since Tuesday is the day we pick up our meat and raw milk from the dairy, it makes a perfect day to run other errands. One of our "errands" is going to the Kuna Public Library. I have recently become reacquainted with our local library and found it to be a fun place to let the kids play and have a break while I research information. The library has so many activities, all free to the local community.
Another great "field trip" errand is the bank. Here we can teach how to count and save money. Plus, the kids get a lollipop!
Even a trip to the grocery store can be a learning experience. We rarely go to big stores anymore since most of our purchases are family owned markets. When we do go to the market, we practice our list making skills. I also occasionally have coupons to cut out and attach to the store list.
This October, we were invited to go to the Farmstead with a friend who is a part of a Kuna Homeschooling Co-op. This is a great opportunity for the kids to have some fun and socialize.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Faith and Fasting--Save Saeed Abedini
"This is Life or Death for Saeed Abedini." --Jay Sekulow
Many have been following the story of Saeed, the Idaho Pastor imprisoned in Iran because of his faith in Jesus Christ. Pastor Saeed is an AMERICAN CITIZEN who visited Tehran, Iran on July 28th 2012 to visit family and to help build orphanages.
Saeed was arrested and sent to Evin Prison, considered one of the most brutal prison's in that region. He was beaten and left bleeding in solitary confinement. They denied him any visitation rights and denied him the medical attention he needed. Naghmeh Abedini, Saeed's wife has traveled the world on her husband's behalf. Because of her courage, many know the great pastors story and are writing letters and praying for his release. The American government has been strangely silent about this case. In fact, it took our President over a year to mention the Abedini case publicly. Finally, in late September 2013, Obama called for Pastor Saeed's release from Evin Prison.
Part of our honor and pleasure as Christians is to stand together as brothers and sisters in Christ. The church family is undeniably one of the greatest supporters of both its members and also important community programs that keep our children safe and our hungry fed. Therefore, when one of our family members is wrongfully imprisoned and persecuted for their personal belief, we stand up.
This week Pastor Saeed has been moved to another prison, even more dangerous than Evin. His life is in immediate danger. The next 24-48 hours will be critical. Our family dedicated this week: Mon-Wed in prayer and fasting for the Abedini Family. We MUST all stand together and use our voices to speak up against this horror of injustice.
Please join us and call 1-877-989-2255 or go to ACLJ.org and sign the petition to put more pressure on our government to step in on Saeed Abedini's behalf. Even if you are not a Christian. This could be your father, husband or brother.
Many have been following the story of Saeed, the Idaho Pastor imprisoned in Iran because of his faith in Jesus Christ. Pastor Saeed is an AMERICAN CITIZEN who visited Tehran, Iran on July 28th 2012 to visit family and to help build orphanages.
Saeed was arrested and sent to Evin Prison, considered one of the most brutal prison's in that region. He was beaten and left bleeding in solitary confinement. They denied him any visitation rights and denied him the medical attention he needed. Naghmeh Abedini, Saeed's wife has traveled the world on her husband's behalf. Because of her courage, many know the great pastors story and are writing letters and praying for his release. The American government has been strangely silent about this case. In fact, it took our President over a year to mention the Abedini case publicly. Finally, in late September 2013, Obama called for Pastor Saeed's release from Evin Prison.
Part of our honor and pleasure as Christians is to stand together as brothers and sisters in Christ. The church family is undeniably one of the greatest supporters of both its members and also important community programs that keep our children safe and our hungry fed. Therefore, when one of our family members is wrongfully imprisoned and persecuted for their personal belief, we stand up.
This week Pastor Saeed has been moved to another prison, even more dangerous than Evin. His life is in immediate danger. The next 24-48 hours will be critical. Our family dedicated this week: Mon-Wed in prayer and fasting for the Abedini Family. We MUST all stand together and use our voices to speak up against this horror of injustice.
Please join us and call 1-877-989-2255 or go to ACLJ.org and sign the petition to put more pressure on our government to step in on Saeed Abedini's behalf. Even if you are not a Christian. This could be your father, husband or brother.
Monday, November 4, 2013
On Attitude
AHHHHHHHHH!!!
Had to get that out of the way.
As we were getting ready this morning to start our day, Sierra came into the bathroom to inform me that she has her cowgirl clothes on for when she gets to ride this afternoon. I told her that we have a lot of work today with schooling and outdoor chores and MELTDOWN. She burst into tears, ran to her room and slammed the door.
Regardless of negative social influences, Sierra still has the 9 year old "Drama." How am I to deal with this kind of attitude and get anything accomplished? Since we chose the option of keeping them home and doing their schooling here, this leaves everything up to us. I only say this because it puts a great sense of responsibility over so many aspects of their lives. I can no longer pin blame on their peers or school personnel. It means I have to watch my reactions and overreactions. It means when they don't do well on a test, it is because I didn't present it well for them.
It is so difficult even as I type right now as Maddie is procrastinating on her math by braiding and rebraiding her her, sharpening her pencil, writing and erasing . . . etc. We have been on #1 for 5 minutes. How in the world am I going to be able to do this.
And through all of this, Ty is singing "Father Abraham" at the top of his lungs. Sigh.
Had to get that out of the way.
As we were getting ready this morning to start our day, Sierra came into the bathroom to inform me that she has her cowgirl clothes on for when she gets to ride this afternoon. I told her that we have a lot of work today with schooling and outdoor chores and MELTDOWN. She burst into tears, ran to her room and slammed the door.
Regardless of negative social influences, Sierra still has the 9 year old "Drama." How am I to deal with this kind of attitude and get anything accomplished? Since we chose the option of keeping them home and doing their schooling here, this leaves everything up to us. I only say this because it puts a great sense of responsibility over so many aspects of their lives. I can no longer pin blame on their peers or school personnel. It means I have to watch my reactions and overreactions. It means when they don't do well on a test, it is because I didn't present it well for them.
It is so difficult even as I type right now as Maddie is procrastinating on her math by braiding and rebraiding her her, sharpening her pencil, writing and erasing . . . etc. We have been on #1 for 5 minutes. How in the world am I going to be able to do this.
And through all of this, Ty is singing "Father Abraham" at the top of his lungs. Sigh.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Hi. It's Mike
Hey everyone, Mike here. Tanya asked me to do this blog with her, and, although I've been very excited to do it, I've had a hard time getting started. I'm going to give it a shot.
To be honest, this back to basics lifestyle hasn't changed my days all that much. Tanya has researched the food sources and does most of the shopping. Tanya has taken on the responsibility of homeschooling the kids. I just keep plugging away at work. I have, however, seen a transformation in my family that I love seeing. The kids are growing more respectful, learning about our Lord and Savior, and becoming more responsible with helping out around the house. Tanya, in spite of the tough days, has much better good days. I can say, as well, that I am feeling better physically due to the foods that we've been eating.
Our society says that "he who dies with the most toys wins". I'd like to see that changed to "he who dies and leaves behind a family who will follow him to heaven wins". The boats, the campers, the four wheelers, motorcycles, pools, bigger trucks, faster cars, bigger houses...Really? Are they as important as the children that we raise? I think if you asked anyone with a yard full of toys which was more important, the toys or the kids, undoubtedly they would answer the kids. In spite of that, we have converted our society to require two incomes in the home so that we can afford the lifestyles that we live. Relinquishing our children's upbringing to day care and eventually a school system that cannot allow a teacher to hug a sad child for fear of being sued by an easily offended parent.
I am grateful that I was blessed with a wife who is willing to ignore societal expectations and do what is right for our family.
To be honest, this back to basics lifestyle hasn't changed my days all that much. Tanya has researched the food sources and does most of the shopping. Tanya has taken on the responsibility of homeschooling the kids. I just keep plugging away at work. I have, however, seen a transformation in my family that I love seeing. The kids are growing more respectful, learning about our Lord and Savior, and becoming more responsible with helping out around the house. Tanya, in spite of the tough days, has much better good days. I can say, as well, that I am feeling better physically due to the foods that we've been eating.
Our society says that "he who dies with the most toys wins". I'd like to see that changed to "he who dies and leaves behind a family who will follow him to heaven wins". The boats, the campers, the four wheelers, motorcycles, pools, bigger trucks, faster cars, bigger houses...Really? Are they as important as the children that we raise? I think if you asked anyone with a yard full of toys which was more important, the toys or the kids, undoubtedly they would answer the kids. In spite of that, we have converted our society to require two incomes in the home so that we can afford the lifestyles that we live. Relinquishing our children's upbringing to day care and eventually a school system that cannot allow a teacher to hug a sad child for fear of being sued by an easily offended parent.
I am grateful that I was blessed with a wife who is willing to ignore societal expectations and do what is right for our family.
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