tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18580338768609763642024-03-05T01:38:34.612-08:00Catholic CreativityHeather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-66714426739481667552016-01-03T13:23:00.000-08:002016-01-03T13:23:40.985-08:00EpiphanyAs Epiphany rolls into our homes and we see the changing of them we have a chance to reflect on what may have been "in the way". With a new year comes new surprises, new delights, new friends, and a whole world of beauty that we need to offer. This blessed Twelfth Night has many traditions - the annual blessing of our homes and families and the expulsion of that which is not desirable to make room for the Christ Child and the salvation that comes only through Him.<br />
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Today the tree and lights came down. The train board is put away and stored for the next year. The stocking holders go into storage and the leftover candy becomes designated to become repurposed for Super Bowl treats. Now that I've shared the "perfect world" we all like to show, let's be real. <br /><br />The tree had been up for 3 years. Yup - 3 years. For reasons I am not willing to admit on the internet the tree and trainboard which take up 1/5 of our living room and 75% of the natural light have been there. The stocking holders? Yeah - I don't even remember the last time they weren't up there - so I'm guessing 5+ years. Possibly longer. I know they came down the first year or two we lived here but after that it's kind of a blur.<br />
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As the tree came down and I had the chance to bask in the natural sunlight a few things occurred to me: <br />
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<ol>
<li>Trees come down for a reason - the dust that came off that thing is nothing short of a biohazard. </li>
<li>Those windows let in a LOT of light....blaring bright light....light that requires new blackout curtains. </li>
</ol>
And then the wheels begin to turn in my brain and the light dawns and I must stop the cleaning frenzy to have a chat with all of you. I swear this isn't metaphorical - it's true...as the clutter came out, and the dust faded away, the light shone through.<br />
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Think about that for a minute. What is your "stuff" blocking from you? What "light" are you keeping out? Friendship? Family? Fellowship? Love? Joy? Peace? Tranquility?<br />
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How do we get rid of the pile of "stuff" that is physically blocking us from the light of Christ? How do we let the physical go and embrace all that He has to offer us? Are you willing to take the risk? Have you kept the light out for so long that you have difficulty adjusting to it? <br />
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See, the light was there all along - the tree sitting in the bay window was the only thing blocking it from entering into the room. The light is blinding because we are not used to it - we have grown accustomed to the darker, more secretive cave-like feeling instead of the joy that can come from letting it in.<br /><br />And so we come to a close - and my first challenge of 2016 to you: Let the light in. Shed the "stuff" between you and God and open your door wide open to all the blessings he has in store for you in 2016 and beyond. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-19211001881940494862015-12-31T03:30:00.000-08:002015-12-31T03:30:00.152-08:00New BeginningsTonight is a night for closing chapters that need to be closed and opening the door to all the beauty that God has in store for your future. It's a time when we naturally reflect on the past and attempt to become hopeful about what is to come. We set goals, establish new habits, shed the old, and search for the new.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILo5WiUBc686h-C43MVsFwu2d90uyQ-HqWL0N8UrFLO6uF_skR9CND_QjUAwvvibLkmIX2JwXm4CYmwTj4XhVnsREvXf0IvF6KjViakBmFRShf6z2dbGJ7_OEPicaN58ndXV_SgkKjM3K/s1600/butterfly-light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILo5WiUBc686h-C43MVsFwu2d90uyQ-HqWL0N8UrFLO6uF_skR9CND_QjUAwvvibLkmIX2JwXm4CYmwTj4XhVnsREvXf0IvF6KjViakBmFRShf6z2dbGJ7_OEPicaN58ndXV_SgkKjM3K/s320/butterfly-light.jpg" width="320" /></a> Today we embrace what is to come. We seek our future with open eyes, open minds, and open hearts.<br />
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But I challenge you today. <br />
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I challenge you to take this new beginning and invite God into it with you. To open your heart to what He is trying to say and to allow Him to guide the path you will be on. Don't just consider the options, prayerfully consider them. <br />
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Take time on your knees today and give thanks for all the blessings you have had this past year and if you think you have had none, the simple fact that you are able to read this says you have had far more than your mind can even begin to imagine. Praise Him, even if you are in a storm, for all that He has done, and is doing. <br />
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Reach out as you embrace your future and know that as you travel on it, I will be here, lifting you up in prayer and His light as we move forward. Never doubt that you are loved. Never doubt that you are valued. Never doubt that you are worth far more than you could ever imagine...and know in your heart that no matter how far your journey make take you, it will never take you further than just one step from being back in His arms again. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-86682716793881510022015-12-30T08:00:00.000-08:002015-12-30T21:30:04.344-08:00Moving Forward<a href="http://catholiccreativity.blogspot.com/2015/12/getting-back-on-track.html" target="_blank">Yesterday</a> I opened up to you about what the past few years have looked like in my life and a long but brief synopsis of how I got to where I am now - sane and mentally healthy for the first time in a very, very long time. I mentioned toward the end that a particular event the day before had led me to want to write again and promised you a follow up article today. Thus, welcome to a new page in my journey.<br />
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I will freely admit that there are two modes to my housework: psychotic overkill or non-existent. As the child of two people with serious overkill cleaning I kind of rebelled as I got older. So either it's perfect, or why bother. I also am the type of woman who believes that my primary job is to care for my children and husband. I need to focus on my children when he's not home and focus on all of them when he is. <br />
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The problem is that when I focused on all of them 100% of the time, I never took care of anything else. Anyone with a brain can see where this went. I don't have "before" photos - and if I did I'd be too ashamed to post them.<br />
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In order to overcome the clutter, I had to come to a new mindset that involved 5 key issues:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Throwing things out is a good thing. </li>
<li>My children are capable of far more in this matter than I give them credit for. </li>
<li>My children will also try ANYTHING to get out of proving me right on #2. </li>
<li>If I ever want it done and want it kept that way it's up to me. </li>
<li>I need to learn to get over spending 24/7 with people I love and just GET IT DONE.</li>
</ol>
#5 was the big wake up call. Time to ditch the antiquated notion of perfection and get over myself.<br />
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Yesterday was my first day trying this new concept. My husband and son sat down to play a video game together (just gifted for Christmas), and I went into the kitchen and proceeded to organize my pantry. No guilt because they were both happy and content, engaged and excited. That was revolutionary.<br />
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XBox may just save my house cleaning!<br />
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Yup - you heard me correctly. Thanks to them gaming, I could just GO. And I didn't feel guilty, or left out, or like I was being punished. I went and organized a piece and then would check in on them from time to time, have a laugh, and get back to the grindstone.<br />
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Tonight they watched a movie together while I organized the kitchen utensils and "specialty" cooking items. Then after they went to bed I organized my soaping supplies and then spent some time doing the end shuffling that was necessary from all the clean up. <br />
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Our new cleaning schedule is as follows: <br />
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<ul>
<li>Between 3 and 4 PM I hop up from hanging out with the kids and grab the vacuum. This is their cue to start cleaning up their daily crazy because I'm coming in there soon. I quickly run over the main traffic areas in the kitchen, dining room, hallway, and bathroom and then spend a few extra moments on one particular room in the pile. When I'm done with the details it's into their playspace and I handle the living room quickly and then head on out. Once that's finished I quickly wipe down the counters in the bathroom and do a quick clean of the toilet and the cat's litter box. Then into the kitchen for another fast wipe down of the counters and sink. I put away dishes as needed (or load them into the dishwasher), pull out dinner, and start getting that ready to run on time. It takes 30 minutes tops, including meal prep and the house is nice and fresh when hubby gets home from work. </li>
<li>After dinner I take care of the dishes and put everything away again. I'm trying to learn to clean as I cook and so far that's going fairly well but will definitely take some time before it becomes a true habit. I load the dishwasher, start it if needed, wipe down the counters again, and hen I'm back to hang out with the family. Worst case scenario this takes 15 minutes tops.</li>
<li>Last, but not least, I tackle a few areas that need help every day. The house is by NO means perfect yet - but by knocking out some of those every day the progress continues to move forward. I try to do 4, some days I manage more, some days less - but for now 4 is doable most of the time. Some days the projects are large (reorganizing the pantry), others are quick (clearing an area with a clear game plan in advance or relocating a handful of boxes that were presorted but didn't make it to their new home yet). </li>
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That's it - that's ALL I'm doing. I will freely admit I had a metric TON of help by my family who came to visit over Christmas and worked endlessly to get us to this point. I will also freely admit I still have a LOT of work to get done. But for now, I can cook in a clean kitchen, I can play with my kids on the floor. I can take photos of my kids being themselves without having to panic and prestage the shot so the background won't reflect something I don't want seen. HUGE steps. And now I get to take fun photos like this one of tonight's dinner! (BONUS!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6drFiS86dSwfALpNY5-eyWSfDONkjePnZqTrKciNT_MDMQMBKdfVn1jEHryKjZxNv2dZdrq7NnbDV6nKefPjFr4Dp_qfAJ75-8c_4TisCAAtOxb-uFDbH-DVJT4uBC4gpHxceWo-d09i/s1600/IMG_0189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6drFiS86dSwfALpNY5-eyWSfDONkjePnZqTrKciNT_MDMQMBKdfVn1jEHryKjZxNv2dZdrq7NnbDV6nKefPjFr4Dp_qfAJ75-8c_4TisCAAtOxb-uFDbH-DVJT4uBC4gpHxceWo-d09i/s200/IMG_0189.JPG" width="135" /></a><br />
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And every time I don't want to do it, those are the things I think about dealing with - and I remember those anxiety attacks. I remember worrying constantly and feeling overwhelmed. I remember what it felt like to constantly have the state of my house looming over my head.<br />
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And then I smile because as I clean, I sing. I haven't just randomly sung whatever popped into my head out loud for years. I'm a musician - and I had lost my song. Today I sang "Getting to Know You" from The King and I as I danced around with the vacuum. <br />
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It feels good to have it back. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-86719585898258098402015-12-29T10:05:00.001-08:002015-12-29T10:05:34.509-08:00Getting Back on TrackFirst things first, I owe you all a minor apology. I kind of fell off the earth for awhile there but please bear with me while I explain a bit about where I was, how I got to where I am now, and how I am continuing to move forward.<br />
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I know for a fact that many other moms out there suffer from depression and anxiety so I'm going to come clean. After having my second child I had severe post-partum depression. Thinking I could just "power through" I went off my meds and ended up in a deep, deep, deep hole. This past more than 2 years that hole got deeper and deeper as our family struggled through my husband's job loss due to his disabilities, my father's stroke, the passing of my beloved grandfather, and many other smaller trials. It has been a journey that was immensely personally painful to go through.<br />
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Last summer I choose to attend Wood Badge. I started trying to rebuild my life and though the daily struggle was still there, I started to feel support and some wind under my sails again. I wasn't doing great - but I was starting to try again. <br />
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In September, I was stung by a wasp and surprise - I'm allergic! For the first time since giving birth I HAD to go see a doctor so I could get an Epi-Pen prescription. This was the first visit I would have had in years. Self care had been at the VERY bottom of my list in a perpetual state for 10+ years. On top of it, this was also my personal low. Every time I saw a bee or wasp I had a panic attack. This is incredibly unproductive...especially for a mom with a family who loves to be outside.<br />
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I went into the local clinic and was promptly given several surveys completely unrelated to the bee sting. The alcohol screening and "at risk" behaviors were a piece of cake. I'd had a drink on 2 days in the past year. A mental health assessment was the last piece of paper I wanted to see and there it was staring me in the face. To lie or not to lie....that is the question. If I tell the truth, I'm back on meds and in a fog. If I lie, I'm not going to move forward from this horrid place either.<br />
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I told the truth. So along with my Epi-Pen prescription I left with one for anti-depressants and a follow-up appointment in a month. For the first week everything was starting to get better and then we discovered that halfway through the day, I CRASHED - hard - like sitting on the floor of my friend's kitchen rocking back and forth and hyperventilating hard. I called the office and they started having me take a 1/2 dose in the AM and my regular dose at night. That worked - no more falling to pieces at 1 PM. <br />
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Then something new started to surface. Now that my body had figured out how to have a panic attack, when provoked I couldn't stop it. It would take me over an hour to recover from stressors. I was a mess! The rocking became more and more frequent and by the time I got back into the clinic (6 weeks after my initial appointment), I had another choice to face. Tell her, or not. Total no brainer this time.<br />
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So now I went home with a new prescription for what she called a "rescue med". A fast acting medication that I take when my anxiety is getting the best of me. Fortunately I only need a VERY tiny amount (1/8 of the pill) to make it stop most of the time. <br /><br />Which brings me to the next part of my journey. No longer in sheer panic or depression I was able to start cleaning up my house and my parents came for Christmas and were a HUGE help on this leg of the journey. Last night I made dinner in a completely clean kitchen for the first time in we won't say how long.<br />
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After making that dinner I was clearing out and organizing my pantry while my husband and son played a new video game and I couldn't help but think "I need to blog about this". I came here to write that article and this one came out instead. I promise that one will be here tomorrow and many, many more will be coming.<br />
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Watch for a new blog to be coming in the next few months. Watch for LOTS of new changes in my world. Enjoy laughing along with me as I continue to make mistakes and fail miserably. Cheer along when I finally get it right. Welcome Back. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-79405650257281347532015-06-09T15:15:00.000-07:002015-06-09T15:15:44.345-07:0035 Years of Life LessonsI've had 35 free trips around the sun and upon the completion of the most recent cycle I felt a need to share something with you this morning. Perhaps I'm a bit nostalgic, perhaps I'm a bit outside my comfort zone, but I felt a need to share with you some of what I have learned along the journey.<br />
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<ol>
<li>Life is too short to be a grown up all the time. </li>
<li>Use your powers for good instead of evil. </li>
<li>"Eew!! This is disgusting!! Here - try it!" is not a good pick up line.</li>
<li>When God opens a door, walk through it. </li>
<li>You're worth enough as you are - don't try to be 2, 3, 4 or 5 different people. </li>
<li>Pajamas are the most soul-healing clothing you'll ever own. </li>
<li>The past exists for learning experience, not a dwelling place. </li>
<li>Sometimes being "voluntold" can be the best thing that ever happens to you. </li>
<li>If you're ashamed of your faith, it's time to re-evaluate your commitment to it. </li>
<li>Some things are part of a universal language: hugs, bubbles, balloons, smiles - use them often. </li>
<li>There is always more to learn.</li>
<li>The most important thing you can do with your time is serve God.</li>
<li>People's perceptions of you are rarely what you believe them to be. </li>
<li>Sometimes being "the weird one" has it's advantages. </li>
<li>If you're doing it right, leadership rarely means you get your way. </li>
<li>Coercion will almost always come back to bite you in the rear. </li>
<li>Spend as much time outdoors as you possibly can.</li>
<li>Imaginary friends never really die...they make stellar comebacks in the oddest places. </li>
<li>Sometimes embracing the unknown is the best gift you can give yourself. </li>
<li>Finding people who embrace you for who you are is a rare gift - enjoy them. </li>
<li>Your greatest strengths are often unearthed by the most unlikely people. </li>
<li>No matter how hard you try to hide your light, someone will find it.</li>
<li>There is no better sound on earth than the joyous laughter of children. </li>
<li>It's okay to say no - especially when you don't want to do something.</li>
<li>Be honest about your weaknesses - only then will you learn who you can truly trust. </li>
<li>Your greatest adventures are only a "yes" away. </li>
<li>Be the person who brings out the best in others. </li>
<li>The only thing stopping you is yourself. </li>
<li>When the big things are in place, the rest will usually follow. </li>
<li>Deodorant is priceless when worn by others....especially if you are under 5'2". </li>
<li>Children are the best investment you will ever make.</li>
<li>Laugh at yourself...everyone else is already doing it. </li>
<li>Find the humor now....there's no point being miserable while you're waiting for later.</li>
<li>Don't marry someone who knows if you ate the paste in Kindergarten.</li>
<li>Be yourself - everyone else is already taken. </li>
</ol>
<br />Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-80135968307926773072015-05-23T09:42:00.000-07:002015-05-23T09:50:34.467-07:00Patriotic Holidays and their Place in our LivesMemorial Day weekend is now upon us and I'm at the end of my rope. Thankfully my parents and loved ones taught me the meaning behind holidays and due to a family over-researching habit it drives me batty to see them misused - but it drives my friends who are veterans and/or active duty even more over the edge.<br />
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This post may anger or upset some of you - don't shoot the messenger. This is about the TRUTH - even when it's painful and/or difficult to hear. We're going to cover the 5 major American Patriotic holidays today and when to celebrate and/or honor what. Fasten your seatbelts ladies and gentleman, some of you might end up a bit surprised by some of these.<br />
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<a href="http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp" target="_blank"><u><b>VETERAN'S DAY</b></u></a><br />
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On November 11, 1919 President Wilson declared the first Armistice Day, set aside at the time to honor the current surviving veterans of World War I and their efforts in preserving world peace. <br />
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In 1954 following World War II where nearly every family in the USA sent at least 1 loved one into harm's way the holiday was expanded to include all American veterans of all wars. The first "update" came on June 1 expanding the holiday to all veterans of all wars America had participated in and changing the wording from "Armistice Day" to "Veteran's Day". The second came on October 8th when President Eisenhower gave the first Veteran's Day Proclamation calling to "insure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all
veterans, all veterans' organizations, and the entire citizenry will
wish to join hands in the common purpose."<br />
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THIS is the holiday when we honor veterans who are living from all American Wars. We are also invited to honor veterans who have passed on who did not die in combat or as a result of combat related injuries.<br />
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<a href="http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d107:HJ00071:@@@L&summ2=m&#cosponsors" target="_blank"><u><b>PATRIOT DAY</b></u></a><br />
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In the wake of the attacks of September 11, 2001, President George W. Bush made an official proclamation on September 14, 2001 that September 11 would be a "<a href="http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2001/09/20010913-7.html" target="_blank">National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of the Terrorist Attacks on September 11, 2001</a>". Congress swiftly took action and on a law was in place by December 8th of that year. On September 2, 2002 the official proclamation by President Bush declared September 11 to be Patriot Day.<br />
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THIS is the holiday when we honor those who passed on September 11, 2001 in the terrorism attacks including the first responders who were killed. We are also invited to remember and pray for those who survived and for their health and well being.<br />
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<a href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/declaration_transcript.html" target="_blank"><u><b>INDEPENDENCE DAY</b></u></a><br />
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On July 4, 1776 the Declaration of Independence was born but it's history and timing is far more complex than this one date in history. Starting on April 5, 1764 with the Sugar Act (<i>The American Revenue Act of 1764</i>) taxation on the 13 colonies began to rise.<br />
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By July 4, 1776 the American Revolution was already running with the banner flying high. Following the Boston Tea Party, the Intolerable Acts had already wrecked massive economical devastation and the First and Second Continental Congresses had already met. General George Washington had already taken control of the Continental Army and Paul Revere's famous ride was a memory. The Battle of Bunker Hill was also already completed and Benedict Arnold was already proving one of the most useless men to lead in military history.<br />
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From July 1-4, 1776 Congress debated and revised the Declaration of Independence. On July 2 as a British fleet and army dock in New York, independence is officially declared by the Congress without the release of the final document. On the morning of July 4 the Congress officially adopts the document and permits the printing of 24 copies (the Dunlap Broadsides), only 2 are currently known to exist. On July 5 the President of the Congress, John Hancock, officially releases the document and begins dispatching it to New Jersey and Delaware. <br />
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The first public reading took place on July 8 and the stakes were upped on July 19 when Congress ordered the document engrossed (officially inscribed) and signed by it's members. Starting on August 2, 56 men committed high treason by signing their names to
the Declaration of Independence. The signers varied immensely in every
way possible including age (26-70) and background. Contrary to popular
current belief, these were not "simple men of a simple time" - they were
revolutionaries who had already undergone massive oppression by their
homeland.<br />
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THIS is the day we celebrate our independence from Great Britain. It is also when we honor those who died to bring us our freedom in the Revolutionary War. <br />
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<a href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution.html" target="_blank"><u><b>CONSTITUTION DAY</b></u></a><br />
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Up until September 17, 1787 America was a concept at best. She had no governing laws, no true and holding sense of who she was. States were consistently at war with each other passing laws that caused more problems than solutions.<br />
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The first attempt at a unifying document was back on November 15, 1777, the <a href="http://www.ushistory.org/documents/confederation.htm" target="_blank">Articles of Confederation</a>, was not ratified until March 1, 1781. America was officially declared but still well in strife as the American Revolution began to wind to a close. Following the Treaty of Paris on September 3, 1783 Great Britain withdrew her troops but what was left was a tattered and torn and very loosely formed union. We'd found freedom - we just really didn't know what to do with it yet.<br />
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Eventually something had to come or our union was going to end up dissolved. On May 14, 1787 the Federal Convention met in Philadelphia to revise the Articles of Confederation. Only 2 states were present at the time so all action was suspended until May 25 when delegates from 7 states (a quorum of over 50% of the states) had arrived. They toiled until September 17 when they reached a consensus and the Constitution of the United States was born. Later that day, the Bill of Rights would also be brought to the table.<br />
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The Constitution would not be ratified (adopted by all states) until June 21, 1788 and George Washington took office almost a year later on April 30, 1789.<br />
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THIS is the holiday when we celebrate the true founding of a cohesive country and the amazing and wonderful minds who brought us the American Constitution, a living document that has upheld the Republic for over 200 years. This is the day America came together and united and American Exceptionalism began to take root and thrive.<br />
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<a href="http://www.va.gov/opa/speceven/memday/history.asp" target="_blank"><b><u>MEMORIAL DAY</u></b></a><br />
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Of all the days, this is going to be the most controversial because it has become the most distorted of the bunch. By three years after the Civil War, local observances were being held to honor the dead on May 30 called "Decoration Day". The graves of those who fought and died during the war were decorated with flower. Many cities claim to have held the first ceremonies but Congress and President Johnson declared in 1966 that it was Waterloo, NY to have the official honor for their ceremony on May 5, 1866.<br />
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By the end of the century observances were held on May 30 across the country, honoring the sacrifice of those who paid the ultimate price for the unity of our country. It was not until after World War I that the remembrance was expanded to include those who perished in all American wars. <br />
<br />
Memorial Day wasn't declared an official national holiday until 1971, over 100 years after the tradition began. This declaration also shifted it to the last Monday in May instead of the traditional May 30 date. The first official celebration was held at Arlington National Cemetery and the tradition of placing small American flags on the gravesites of those who died in combat was born. <br />
<br />
Recent "adaptations" of remembering all loved ones who passed are actually against the founding and basis of this holiday. Remember them on their days of passing or for those of us who remember All Souls Day and All Saints Day this is the appropriate time for that honoring of life. Memorial Day is to honor American veterans who have paid the ultimate price for us to have our freedom during combat. It is not to remember "all veterans who have died" or "all people who have died".<br />
<br />
In an effort to stem this tide of shifting focus on Memorial Day on December 28, 2000 President Clinton signed into law the National Moment of Remembrance, calling all Americans to pause at 3 PM local time on Memorial Day as a moment to remember those who gave all for our country. Many radio stations and television stations honor the moment by airing a recording of Taps and bowing heads in silence.<br />
<br />
This Memorial Day, let us remember their sacrifice with honor and dignity, particularly at the time of 3 PM locally.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_iC3V1fA5yLUjsn2J0aXBuxVJ-UP0RMG_TELC3uSu_OFNTIEHw_xxXYSBMTdbyYlroBVYTTqIKO0A55HRX2e04BQi40YJewJBb9RJSm9GsOF01yNZsF3mP8d9Eeivmc5DVXU_kKwEazsE/s1600/American+Flag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_iC3V1fA5yLUjsn2J0aXBuxVJ-UP0RMG_TELC3uSu_OFNTIEHw_xxXYSBMTdbyYlroBVYTTqIKO0A55HRX2e04BQi40YJewJBb9RJSm9GsOF01yNZsF3mP8d9Eeivmc5DVXU_kKwEazsE/s400/American+Flag.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
May God continue to bless America and all who have served her in every capacity. May we be blessed to know we have been honored with the opportunity to live in the greatest freedom ever given to mankind and may He gift us with the wisdom to keep our beautiful flag waving brightly over our country.Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-91817620262102923392015-02-03T09:15:00.000-08:002015-02-03T15:15:27.745-08:00Essential Oils, Choices, and Fighting for the Little GuyI recently made an informed decision based on research, thought, and theory. I'm rather excited about it, but more importantly, I want to share the why behind my choice with you. Many of you will know that previously I have *not* supported this company so it may seem a bit like I've "gone out of my gourd" but bear with me for a few moments.<br />
<br />
This is a conversation I've been having in my head for over 2 years. Many of you know I use essential oils in my home. In fact, last May I <a href="http://catholiccreativity.blogspot.com/2014/05/a-minor-nightmare-and-gallant-rescue.html" target="_blank">rescued our family tent</a> using them and those who know me personally have often seen me pull a small blue or green bottle out of my purse for various reasons. <br />
<br />
I'm generally not a huge fan of MLM companies. I'm *really* not fond of being associated with what can be (at best) high pressure sales tactics and (at worst) outright lies and fabrications. Unfortunately MLM essential oil companies have sadly fallen into a category of people who make me cringe. I've literally been badgered, verbally beaten up, and physically CHASED by representatives from both doTERRA and Young Living. Who wants to be associated with that kind of behavior???<br />
<br />
With that background I offer you my tale.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://essentialoil.university/" target="_blank">Essential Oils University</a> is an organization I have chosen to follow very closely. In January they began doing <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EssentialOilUniversity" target="_blank">FREE ($150 value) testing on Blue Tansy</a> due to the adulteration and outright lies in the market. They are single-handedly ferreting out the charlatans and rubes among the industry one test at a time. For that, I applaud Dr. Pappas and his team. I'm always a fan of consumer protections and those who fight for the little guy. <br />
<br />
I watched over the past month as friends cheered on Dr. Pappas as one test after another was released (in another group) for those who were submitting samples and exposing fraudulent companies. Go Get 'Em! A rally the size of the Super Bowl was going on across the internet among oil enthusiasts. Companies are threatening to sue Dr. Pappas...it's been a zoo.<br />
<br />
As I sat and watched all this unfold I came to two very important conclusions: <br />
<ol>
<li>I wanted to find a way to support Dr. Pappas and *know* that the oils he's tested are the ones in my collection because I *trust* his ethics and I want to support him being able to provide testing like this to expose charlatans. After all, if we're all cheering him on from the sidelines, shouldn't we be backing that up with our choices for purchasing? </li>
<li>There is only 1 company I knew of that has 100% of their oils tested by Dr. Pappas.</li>
</ol>
This put me in a dilemma. Do I switch my oils to a company that frankly I've previously outright bashed??? Am I really going to *gasp* make the conversion to this company? It was a thought that made me cringe.<br />
<br />
One of their "Wellness Advocates" had been in constant contact with me recently. It doesn't hurt that she's also a dear friend who's son is my son's best friend. Our circles constantly cross each other and at times are barely distinguishable. She'd made the choice recently to make her oil business her full time job and has been doing a wonderful job. She's well educated on oils and chooses to know what she's doing instead of putting her head in the sand and blindly recommending the latest photo on Pintrest without discerning the accuracy of the information.<br />
<br />
So, I had a stable upline to join - now....what about the ridiculous statements sadly made by those "Wellness Advocates" without ethics and education? Moms actually burning and harming their children with oils due to inappropriate usage (primarily lack of proper dilution rates). The list could go on. I took some time to watch some footage from what is being put out by the organization to the "top off the food chain". <br />
<br />
Guess what?<br />
<br />
They're pushing proper (ALERT - there are *many* different standards) dilution rates. They're advocating the "Wellness Advocates" to understand their responsibility to their clients and recruits. I'm seeing seminars and webinars about how to properly promote the products to avoid FDA lawsuits AND I'm seeing websites, promotional materials, and literature connected with the company and "Wellness Advocates" changing to comply with current federal law! <br />
<br />
WOW! Looks like someone is at least attempting to clean up their act! Now it comes down to the individual "Wellness Advocate". Is he/she going to take the reins, learn the new material, and put him or herself in a protected place where the business can still thrive? Some are, some aren't.<br />
<br />
There are horrid reps in every company. We've all met them. They're the same people from this company who literally chased me through a parking lot. They're the cosmetics rep who doesn't understand "I have an allergy to red/blue mica, please stop trying to sell me purple eyeshadow!". They're the kitchen gadget pusher who brings her entire kit to *every* pot luck and proceeds to lecture you on how you made your own offering vs. how you *should* have done it. They're the home decor rep who you no longer allow in your home due to her sighs and shaking of her head. These idiots cannot be avoided no matter what company you choose to work with. They're everywhere - and they definitely overpopulate the MLM industry.<br />
<br />
Do I let the bad eggs separate me from the potential? Do I go with what I *know* is a safe oil (based on everyone loving this scientist...) and simply adjust the usage to my own personal dilution standards I have adopted for my family? Do I put myself out there as a "Wellness Advocate" who is willing to give you the TRUTH and help you learn to educate yourself?<br />
<br />
Yes. I did. Introducing <a href="http://www.mydoterra.com/sempergumby/" target="_blank">my new dōTERRA site</a> after ALL this crazy (aptly named for my miliary family "Semper Gumby"). Stay tuned as we talk more in the next few weeks about a wide variety of things but the ONE thing that matters to me most - my family. I hereby promise this site will *never* be "all <a href="http://www.mydoterra.com/sempergumby" target="_blank">d</a><a class="mrm groupsJumpTitle" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="groupsJumpTitle" style="max-width: 230px;">ō</a>TERRA, all the time" but you will hear when something works....and when it doesn't. And you will also hear the amusing anecdotes you have come to rely on, gardening information, and a wide variety of other happiness from the middle of nowhere which I am blessed to call home. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-75828046875060512622015-02-02T09:30:00.001-08:002015-02-02T09:32:18.730-08:00TRUTH: The New Super PowerThis morning a good friend of mine asked me to read and give her my take on an article on The Daily Beast entitled "<a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/02/01/jesus-christ-wasn-t-down-with-marriage.html?source=TDB&via=FB_Page" target="_blank">Jesus Christ Wasn't Down with Marriage</a>". She felt I was the best she personally knew to pick apart this particular atrocity of "journalism".<br />
<br />
First off, propaganda isn't journalism. These are two very different things. If you're going to call yourself a news source, then please learn the difference and behave accordingly. This article is atrociously slanted toward the LGBT movement. There's nothing wrong with that - but it does tend to taint the reader in one direction or the other straight off the cuff.<br />
<br />
If you're going to refute Christianity using the Bible, stick to the actual facts. The Biblical implications in this article are simply <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.0"><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.0.$end:0:$4:0">partially correct. The author chooses to pick and choose her battles...and does not pick them very wisely. </span></span><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3"><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0"><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$1:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$3:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$4:0">Let's tear into this with the meat of her "defense" that Jesus was not in favor of marriage. I'm going to skip the political posturing on both sides of facts and break this down into the 5 major claims made by the author, starting
with the portion on the New Testament since according to this author
only the Old Testament supported the institution of marriage: </span><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$5:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$7:0" /><b><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$8:0">1. Wedding of Cana</span></b><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$9:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$11:0" /><i><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$12:0">Claim:
"facilitating drunkenness at the Wedding at Cana is less evidence of
Jesus’s support of marriage than of his desire to keep the party going"</span></i><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$13:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$15:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$16:0">Ummm.....no.
First off this miracle was performed at the request of Mary, not on
Christ's whim. Secondly if the family could not provide an adequate
feast, it was a shame upon the entire family within their community.
Imagine going to a wedding, being told there's a full reception, and you
get there and it's fish sticks, mac and cheese, and watered down
lemonade with only enough to feed 1/2 those in attendance. It doesn't
look kindly on the bride, groom, or their families. Some things don't
change. </span><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$17:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$19:0" /><b><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$20:0">2. The disciples abandoned their wives to follow Christ. </span></b><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$21:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$23:0" /><i><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$24:0">Claim:
"Jesus promises the disciples that anyone who leaves “brother or sister
or father or mother or children” for his sake would be rewarded in the
age to come. And he’s not just a home wrecker in theory; tradition
maintains that some of Jesus’s disciples were married, but their wives
are not mentioned in the Gospels."</span></i><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$25:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$27:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$28:0">Mute
point. All of the disciples were SINGLE MEN. They were not married
and none had children. So.....not so much. How does one establish a
celibate priesthood by bringing married men and their children on the
road? </span><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$29:0" /><b><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$31:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$32:0">3. Be celibate if you can. If not, get married. </span></b><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$33:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$35:0" /><i><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$36:0">Claim:
"Paul is clear that he would prefer that followers remain unmarried and
celibate like him. If you really can’t handle celibacy and find
yourself on fire with lust, then you should marry."</span></i><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$37:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$39:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$40:0">TRUTH.
Finally - a piece of this that actually WORKS. Yes, Paul called all
people to celibacy but if they could not, then they should marry. Easy
enough. In fact, the Church STILL does this today, calling noble men and
women across the globe into holy servitude as priests, nuns, friars,
brothers, sisters, and a myriad of other things. </span><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$41:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$43:0" /><b><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$44:0">4. Romans were pro "Traditional Marriage".</span></b><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$45:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$47:0" /><i><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$48:0">Claim:
"In the first two centuries of the Common Era the real advocates for
“traditional marriage” were the pagan Romans. The Christian tendency to
reject marriage was one point of contention between the imperial
authorities and the fledgling religion. In the legends that describe the
activities of the Apostles, Jesus’s followers preached celibacy and
sexual abstinence to the Roman aristocracy. And according to Christian
apocrypha, sabotaging the sex lives of Roman officials was a surefire
way to lose your head."</span></i><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$49:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$51:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$52:0">Ummm.....no.
I'm 100% certain St. Valentine of Rome who was martyred in
approximately 380 AD would help me refute this as well. He was martyred
for performing Christian marriages, primarily for the soldiers of Rome.
Christians rejected <a href="http://www.pbs.org/empires/romans/empire/weddings.html" target="_blank">Roman marriage</a> - which allowed for easy and simple divorce, was often prearranged between families, and contained very little, if any, moral obligation. They
favored (as the Church does today) Sacramental Marriage. </span><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$53:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$55:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$56:0">The
easiest way to break this down is to look at the Church today in
Europe. Marriages *must* be performed by an agent of the State in
Germany (and other European countries). They cannot be legally
performed by clergy. They must take place in the courthouse and are
more legal proceedings than "weddings". So those who are getting
married in the Church go first to the courthouse and then go to the
Church and get married in the eyes of God. You get married twice in
order for a marriage to be Sacramental. This is even common among those
who are not of the Catholic faith. <span class="emoticon emoticon_smile" title=":)"></span> </span><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$57:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$59:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$60:0">So......same
thing. You can be married as a Roman, but to be Christian (Catholic)
you must be married in the Church and follow HER rules for marriage, not
just Rome's (which were severely lacking). </span><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$61:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$63:0" /><b><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$64:0">5. Young Christian women were encouraged to abandon their families and husbands for missionary work. </span></b><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$65:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$67:0" /><i><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$68:0">Claim:
"There’s no shortage of stories of young Christian women who abandoned
their families and husbands in order to join Christianity and branch
out on their own as missionaries. When she overheard the Apostle Paul
preaching through a window, a young woman named Thecla was inspired to
abandon her fiancé, cut her hair short, and dress as a young man
spreading the good news. A cross-dressing single woman with a successful
career?"</span></i><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$69:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$71:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$72:0">The
closest to proof this author can provide is Thecia leaving a FIANCE to
follow the Apostle Paul. Ummm....if all these wives were abandoning their children and husbands, why not use one of THEM who is well documented as
an example....? </span><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$73:0" /><br data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$75:0" /><span data-reactid=".3t.1:3:1:$comment881204551932507_881380985248197:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$76:0">Oh....wait.....that's
because there aren't any. This is a favorite passage of the Bible for
me. Thecia chooses to be one of the first female religious! She sets a
pattern we still follow 2000 years later! She followed her heart,
found the strength to tell her fiance "Sorry, but this isn't a good
idea" and off she went. Talk about the strength of women through
Christ! <span class="emoticon emoticon_smile" title=":)"></span></span></span></span></span></span>Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-64024014107092476112014-09-06T18:28:00.000-07:002014-09-06T18:48:23.790-07:00The Sisterhood of the Traveling VeilsTonight after Mass I was accosted but in order for you to understand the tale of happenstance I must back up approximately 2 hours to the time allotted for Reconciliation at our parish. <br />
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****DISCLAIMER**** - I am not "anti-city people". I was one once. For the sake of understanding this post please note that I attend a "small by your standards" Norvus Ordo parish that's 45 miles from the next priest available. On a "good Sunday" we have approximately 150 people in attendance. There's only 1 Mass per day, 2 to fulfill Sunday obligation. This story occurs on a Saturday Vigil Mass when I usually attend since I'm too lazy to wake up early enough to attend the "early in the morning to me" Mass with the nearly 1 hour commute to get there. I veil - I began the practice before I was even Catholic. I often tie my veil under my hair so it isn't as noticeable as well as to prevent toddler hands from taking off with it. ****END DISCLAIMER****<br />
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My son's Mass clothes were in the car so after he changed I ran the ones he wore to town outside while he was spending some time recanting to Father one half of the tale he would inevitably hear about our family that evening. When I came back in an elderly gentleman who appeared to be of "city origins" was standing in the back of the parish floundering around a bit. He saw me and came over and quietly asked where the confessions were being held. I pointed to the door behind me (unmarked, no lights, could be a broom closet for all he knew) and told him they were there. Full of anxiety he asked me of there was a screen and I told him our parish's "set up" (a chair and a place to kneel with a small curtain and a short wall and then you can walk around and sit/kneel with Father and a 6 ft. crucifix if you prefer). He went and sat down and I thought we were done.<br />
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I knelt down behind the last pew and started my own examination of conscience and a few minutes later he came and tapped me on the shoulder and asked if he could bother me. Of course I stopped for a minute and agreed. He asked how he would know it was time to go in. I told him when the door is open, you can enter. The next person out would be my son and he was more than welcome to go next, I needed more time anyway. He thanked me and went back to his seat. <br />
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I didn't see him again afterwards due to "the usual mommy things" and trying to get in some spare prayer time so when I noticed him at the end of Mass still in his pew after I finished my prayers I thought I might have a chance to make sure all was well and wish him safe travels on the way home. I ended up walking out silently near this gentleman and a lady in a veil who appeared to be his wife. <br />
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As we walked out she reached up and removed her veil and I took off the long scarf I was wearing in lieu of a veil that week. She immediately turned as she saw the flash of blue to the side of her and realized what I'd done. Halting in her tracks she spins on one heel and says "OH! You wear one too!" I gently started to explain I tie it under my hair due to the toddler but quickly ran out of breath as I was squished half to death by this tiny woman in glee. She turns to me and says, "You know, there are more of us" as if she is imparting some kind of massive secret. <br />
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I smiled and told her I knew and we began to part ways, her recounting the encounter of the strange woman who actually veils at the N.O. parish in the middle of nowhere to her husband and I began to gather wool in my head about what a delight it was to meet her and the "Sisterhood of Veils" that exists across the world. <br />
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Whatever your veil is made of, be it the finest French or Spanish lace as hers was or the far more humble $5 Walmart clearance polyester scarf I had on my head know that it's about so much more than you. Your veil is your connection to Mary and to God but it's also your connection to hundreds of thousands, possibly even millions of women who veil around the world in humble grace and awe of His Divine Presence. <br />
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And if anyone knows who this delightful little woman was, please tell her she brought a huge smile and one of the best hugs I've had in months to this "strange woman who actually veils at the N.O. parish in the middle of nowhere". I've never gotten a hug at church before other than my toddler. It was a refreshing experience. May the Lord bless her and her husband and their travels and may they reach wherever home is safely. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-40071604138141593142014-09-05T08:50:00.000-07:002014-09-05T08:50:49.484-07:00ReflectionsToday the Lord gifted me with some spare time for reflecting on things. I am always grateful when those moments come - to see how far we have gone and what we have accomplished; to see the ways, both miniscule and ginormous, that God has been working in my life.<br />
<br />
It's been 13 months since my husband was taken out of work due to the worsening of his disability. Some things haven't changed one bit. We still live in the same home, go to the same church, drive the same car, homeschool, etc. In fact on the exterior I don't think many people have noticed much of a change, if any.<br />
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At times, much to my fury, other things that have not changed: his disability is *still* not improving enough for him to return to work and the therapists say it could take 3-5 years. Despite this information the VA refuses to up his disability rating because "there's a chance at recovery". *sigh* Great. What about NOW?<br />
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It's the interior of our lives that has changed so much. I pray more. I've learned to trust God more. I've spent more time with my family than I've ever been blessed with in 12 years of marriage. I've been given the distinct opportunity from God to fall in love with my husband all over again. I've had the chance to see more of the state of Montana than ever before thanks to a wide variety of doctor's appointments all over the state.<br />
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My oldest son has gone from being a Cub Scout to a Boy Scout. He is now dual enrolled in 2 troops and so busy I can barely keep him where he needs to be. Our youngest has passed his second birthday and discovered the word "spaz", much to his delight and our chagrin.<br />
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My husband has gone through many phases: exhausted from trying to keep up a charade of health to scrambling to try and fix his health to where he sits now, the proud owner of his own business who is working on his dreams. He has grown so much, especially as a father. He has time for the boys now and they can't imagine a world where that goes away again. <br />
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Friends have come and gone and come again. These are the moments in your life when you find out where people truly stand. Do they *really* have your back or are they just more fair-weather friends who bail out of the ship the very moment things don't go their way? I am grateful for the new ones in my life but I am even more grateful God gave me yet another opportunity to sort the wheat from the chaff. <br />
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To those who have prayed: Know that God has heard you and that we could not possibly be more thankful for His new plans for our life. <br />
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To those who have left: Thank you for getting out of the way so God prepare us for even greater things.<br />
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To those who have stayed: Thank you for sojourning on with us.<br />
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So often in my life I find myself reflecting back to works of literature I have read and seeing how the meanings morph and shift as I grow older. This particular poem is one we have all heard but many do not know the actual story behind it.<br />
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From 1912 to 1915 Robert Frost traveled to England where he developed a friendship with another writer named Edward Thomas. The two frequently took long walks together and Edward's frequent issues with indecision on which way to travel further led to Mr. Frost penning this now famous poem with tongue in cheek about his friend's difficulty when they came to a crossroads. <br />
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Mr. Thomas took the poem far more seriously than it was intended as did the rest of America, much to Mr. Frost's chagrin. It became his final push of inspiration to join the British Army in World War I. Two short years later, shortly after arriving in France, he was killed on April 9, 1917 in the Battle of Arras.<br />
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Much like Mr. Thomas, this poem has meant so much more to me than a jest between friends. I apologize to Mr. Frost for not taking his words at face value but sometimes the Lord gives us the ability to write something that is truly meant to mean something very different for others. Every songwriter in the world can attest to this happening to them, yours truly included. <br />
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<h1>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Road Not Taken<span class="author"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="author"><br />By Robert Frost <br />(first published in 1916 in the collection Mountain Interval) </span></span></span>
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Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, </div>
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And sorry I could not travel both </div>
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And be one traveler, long I stood </div>
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And looked down one as far as I could </div>
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To where it bent in the undergrowth; </div>
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Then took the other, as just as fair, </div>
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And having perhaps the better claim, </div>
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Because it was grassy and wanted wear; </div>
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Though as for that the passing there </div>
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Had worn them really about the same, </div>
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And both that morning equally lay </div>
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In leaves no step had trodden black. </div>
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Oh, I kept the first for another day! </div>
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Yet knowing how way leads on to way, </div>
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I doubted if I should ever come back. </div>
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I shall be telling this with a sigh </div>
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Somewhere ages and ages hence: </div>
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Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— </div>
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I took the one less traveled by, </div>
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And that has made all the difference. </div>
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Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-59730772672698131282014-05-19T16:45:00.000-07:002014-06-11T14:08:20.177-07:00The Big Week! The big week has come. The <a href="http://catholiccreativity.blogspot.com/2014/01/gardening-101-2-choosing-plants.html" target="_blank">plants have been selected</a> and are all paired nicely with their <a href="http://catholiccreativity.blogspot.com/2014/02/gardening-101-3-companion-planting.html" target="_blank">companions</a>. We tilled this weekend and are all set to start turning in some extra nutrients (I like manure, peat moss, and compost personally) during the week and then Thursday through the weekend we'll be putting the seeds and seedlings into the ground. I promise to share pictures. :D<br />
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How are your gardens going? I know many of you have a jump start on me but I'm ecstatic to be sharing with all of you. :) Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-50508512613694792072014-05-18T15:27:00.001-07:002014-05-18T15:27:12.591-07:00ENOUGHApparently I have yet again missed the "gravy train" parents ranting on both sides of the fence about food allergies, food sensitivities, and anything else that might cause them to have to think twice (or would rather NOT have to think twice) about what they are serving someone else. <br /><br />I'm the mom of 2 boys - neither has severe food allergies (thank God) although one does have some very minor apple sensitivity issues. I have NEVER in all the years I have worked with children (now 20+) had a problem with a child and their dietary needs. EVER. If you're one of my Scout Moms, CCD Moms, Homeschool Party Moms, then you already know that I care DEEPLY about these things and your child's safety because I would pray that if the tables were turned you would care as much about MY child. <br /><br />I am HONORED to have the chance to work with your children. I am BLESSED to have the opportunity to spend time with them and have them help change MY life - yeah, that's right - MY life. Your kids make ME a better person and I am grateful. Food allergies, medical issues, and all. Your children give me the gift of seeing the world through their beautiful, intelligent eyes and I am the better for it each and every day.<br /><br />I've been the person who has gone to a party and not been able to eat ANYTHING I was served. I've been the girl who had to quietly push food into a napkin so she didn't offend anyone. I've flushed chili down a toilet to keep a host from being embarrassed. Attending food events is often a nightmare for me because of my food allergies and my desperate attempts to keep anyone else from having to deal with them. I have even ended up in Confession LYING to get out of attending these events to save myself and hostesses from embarrassment that I inevitably know would ensue. <br />
<br />My own experiences are why I never mind helping my kids. I even *gasp* don't allow them to have "substitute treats". What's good enough for one is good enough for all. Scout Campout? Make sure everyone can eat what is on the menu and pick food using the democratic process. CCD Snacks, yup - I'm the Mom sending carrots and dip or fruit kabobs.<br />
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You know what the funny thing is? I've NEVER had a child complain. Not in 20+ years of doing this. Maybe it's because I try very hard to make certain all is still "yummy" but more than likely it's because I don't allow them to play favorites. I've had gluten free, dairy free, food coloring free, vegetarian, vegan, soy free, diabetic, etc etc etc. Never a problem - not once! Sure, sometimes we had to get rather creative, but we made it work! And the kids are BETTER for it because they're learning to work together and actually CARE about other human beings! *I* am better for it because I get to use my creativity to create new and exciting things in the world of food!<br />
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Stop the whining - ALL OF YOU. I get that it stinks on both sides of the fence. Telling a kid "no" is NOT the end of the world - on BOTH SIDES. If ALL of us could be just a little more compassionate maybe our children can focus on solving world peace rather than arguing over whether or not cupcakes are an acceptable snack. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-15714919059474757032014-05-15T12:32:00.001-07:002014-05-15T12:32:58.086-07:00My New 4 Letter WordThere is no secret that my world focuses extensively on my 2 beautiful boys and my amazing husband. Yesterday while running errands I had a few minutes to think on words and what I would like to eliminate from my vocabulary. One word in particular came to the surface. I've used it quite often and when I really thought about it, it's been used 99% of the time as a pretty white lie: <br />
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One 4 Letter Word that crushes imaginations, disappoints, and creates chaos in my life. When am I TRULY too "busy" for the people I love? I went through and counted up the things I'd been "too busy" to do in the past week.<br />
<ul>
<li>I was "too busy" to check on Netflix for a neighbor who was looking for a recommendation of survival shows to watch. </li>
<li>I was "too busy" to let my son help me make dinner at least half the nights in the past week. </li>
<li>I was "too busy" too many times to count because I was on my computer researching or doing something *I* wanted to be doing instead of playing with my children. </li>
<li>I was "too busy" to properly clean the house and work on the things my husband asked me to do.</li>
<li>I was "too busy" to cuddle with the toddler. </li>
<li>I was "too busy" to help my son put up his tent in the yard. </li>
<li>I was "too busy" to take the kids to the park. </li>
<li>I was "too busy" to leave for Mass on time so we were late. </li>
</ul>
I'm "too busy" too often for all the things that should matter the most. 100% of the "too busy" above can be described in one sinful, loathing word:<br />
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Or as the Church calls it in the 7 Deadly Sins, Sloth.<br />
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So for all of you out there who are "too busy", I invite you to join me. For the next month - until June 15, I will be banishing "too busy" from my vocabulary. I will either explain why I was not able to do something with what I was doing that prevented the activity OR I will....get this...DO what someone is asking of me.<br />
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Join me - we could change the "too busy" world we live in, one mind at a time. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-65205147926115882482014-05-13T16:14:00.000-07:002014-05-13T16:14:02.529-07:00A Minor Nightmare and a Gallant RescueI love camping. I absolutely 110% LOVE camping. There is nothing like getting away from being plugged in and taking the kids out to the middle of nowhere and getting lost in God and everything He has made.<br />
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I'd like to introduce you to my tent. Actually, this isn't a pic of MY tent, but the current model available for sale at Kmart.<br />
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It's HUGE. I nicknamed it the "Chalet". It's actually 3 "rooms" in there. GINORMOUS tent. There's even built in closets! I'm not joking!!! STOP LAUGHING AT ME!!!!!!<br />
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Last summer my gorgeous tent went to camp with my husband. Unfortunately in their haste to take it down the last morning, they forgot to make certain it was dry. They were CONVINCED it was 100% dry. I never checked (bad Mommy).<br />
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Yup - mildew and mold. In places that are well over the top of my head (it's about 7 feet tall at the peak!). This is NOT good.<br />
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I sat there inside the tent with the box that had just arrived and wanted to cry. My beautiful tent was being eaten by mildew and cleaning it was going to make me sick and possibly blind (bleach overhead is NEVER a good idea). I looked at the box and I wondered....what if I used the essential oils inside to clean it? COULD they do the job? Were they CAPABLE of this feat?!?!?!<br />
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I went inside and got to work doing what I do best on Google. I checked my favorite sites, a few recipe places I'd bookmarked, a book I'd purchased, and came to the conclusion. I think I can do this.<br />
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My favorite site, <a href="http://www.learningabouteos.com/" target="_blank">Learning About Essential Oils</a> provided the <a href="http://www.learningabouteos.com/index.php/2014/03/08/basic-bathroom-spray-cleaning-recipe/" target="_blank">Basic Bathroom Spray</a> I was going to base this on. I <3 Lea's site. She's a fellow homeschooler and a REALLY neat lady.<br />
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That said, I also knew that tent was going to have a toddler inside so adjustments needed to be made. I substituted the Peppermint in the recipe for Fir Needle, a similar oil in terms of performance but safe for little guys to inhale while Mom is scrubbing over the top of her head. I also needed to use Cinnamon Leaf instead of Cinnamon Bark due to little lungs. <br />
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I also didn't have a ton of vinegar on hand and the only spray bottle I had to use was 2 oz. More adjustments necessary. So I decided to mix up the oil magic and then dilute just enough for my little bottle. I made the full recipe of oils in a 5 ml empty bottle (always have these on hand!!!) and then divided the total number of drops (120 for inquiring minds) by 3 (because 6/2=3) which equaled 40. <br />
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I put 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 drop of dish detergent, and 30 drops of the oil in the bottle (I figured I could add more if needed). Swish swish. Topped it off with H20, sealed, and swished again. Armed with a damp sponge, I went to work.<br />
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100% of the spots have faded at least 50%. About 50% of the spots are completely gone. On 9 month old mildew!!!!<br />
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Even better news, the combined properties of these essential oils area antifungal (Cinnamon Bark, Tea Tree, and Lemon), anti-microbial (Cinnamon Bark), antibacterial (Cinnamon Bark and Lemon), and act as a natural deodorizer (Fir Needle). <br />
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Oh, and I still have my sight. That's a biggie. :DHeather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-38865442975587823022014-04-25T09:53:00.003-07:002014-04-25T09:53:30.979-07:00Packing for TravelThe sun is shining, the warm breezes are beginning to blow, and rainy season is almost through! It's time to start looking at travel plans for your spring/summer adventures!<br />
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The very thought of going "on the road" brings on sheer panic for Moms across the country. Our family is used to living out of suitcases and recently some of you asked me to share the packing lists I use for my children.<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7960fu1zYV7MmNkZmJWeU43YnM/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Overnight</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7960fu1zYV7SkYwSVduTXJBTkE/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">2 Night</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7960fu1zYV7SjFpRjAwdGlxUTg/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Weekend</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7960fu1zYV7bFZ6eDNURGw2MzA/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Week Long</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7960fu1zYV7d1RBSnNBNUs5Yk0/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Camping Weekend</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7960fu1zYV7NVhudTdBazgxQWM/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Camping Week Long</a><br />
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I print these lists out and then laminate them with glossy laminating pages. Each child has their own color card stock the original list was written on so they know it's "theirs" and a dry erase marker. When we're getting ready for a trip a use a WET erase marker and draw a line through anything they do not need to bring. Then use the same marker to write in anything in the blank spots they need that is not on the list.<br />
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For younger children, have them lay their items out on the bed for you to check before they put them in the suitcase. This is also helpful for older children who may try to "sneak in" questionable clothing leaving you with no option other than wrapping them in a blanket for the entire vacation. For these children I mark off their list as they put the items into the suitcase (or vice versa). For children that are capable of packing themselves have them mark off their items from the list and pack their suitcase. Once it's all checked off we leave the suitcase open with the list sitting on top for Mom or Dad to check along with their marker. <br />
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Once the suitcases are checked, they are IMMEDIATELY locked with a luggage lock. Why? Because little kids will undo your packing and older children with modesty issues might try to swap out clothes. For security reasons, all luggage is locked in our family. Problem solved. :) That luggage is then moved to the central packing area which is usually our dining room or mudroom depending on how many suitcases and how long until we leave.<br />
<br />Voila! No more left behind socks and no bringing 50 shirts to choose from for teenage girls. No more emergency runs to the Walmart for the child who brought 10 toy cars but no pants. All the arguing is abrogated because everyone has the same list and the same amount of space.<br />
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When you're packing up to come back home, out come the lists again. Have the kids check off the items as they repack their suitcases. No more left behind favorite shirts that have to be shipped later!Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-24206185894820070502014-04-19T08:26:00.002-07:002014-04-19T08:34:36.013-07:00For the RIGHT ReasonsAfter nearly 600,000 Jews had been deported/murdered from the Warsaw Ghetto in Poland to either death camps, forced labor camps, or the Treblinka Killing Center from July 22, 1942 to September 12, 1942, the Ghetto's population was to be "held" at 35,000. An additional 20,000 men and women were in hiding in the ghetto. In response, the Jewish Combat Organiztion (<i>Zydowska Organizacja Bojowa</i>; ZOB) and the Jewish Military Union (<i>Zydowski Zwiazek Wojskowy</i>; ZZW) joined forces to protect the lives of those they loved and lived with. In preparation they began to make homemade STEN guns and grenades out of any metals they could find in the basements of the ghetto.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlTOWhOtcgdBV_PoRj4vKv8s2J6osFOs8iAs51ZKSaAO-R8vQXb1SyW_GCcHeZanm2O4zh0GkWg8__xNSR2tP6AHjEf8KWO8wv7uALZhYA5QYKUvilIEykinEdMGebkasDEnGqH4ya7i-/s1600/STEN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlTOWhOtcgdBV_PoRj4vKv8s2J6osFOs8iAs51ZKSaAO-R8vQXb1SyW_GCcHeZanm2O4zh0GkWg8__xNSR2tP6AHjEf8KWO8wv7uALZhYA5QYKUvilIEykinEdMGebkasDEnGqH4ya7i-/s1600/STEN.jpg" height="141" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Polish STEN. Often the ones used in the Ghetto Uprising were not automatic, but rather single shot which were then reloaded and fired again, similar to the way a black powder musket would have worked but requiring less material to build, less powder to charge, and a lighter, more deadly round to deliver. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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The initial quest of the uprising began when Heinrich Himler decided to liquidate the ghetto in October 1942. The first attempt at mass deportation to forced labor camps on January 18, 1943 was met with enough chaos from the dissidents in the ZOB and ZZW that only 5,000-6,000 were able to be deported before the SS had to stop their mission.<br />
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When they returned on April 19, 1943 they were met with a resistance they could never have surmised coming from the ghetto's residence. On the eve of Passover, 1943 Nazi troops arrived to find the streets deserted and were picked off and isolated by ZOB and ZZW units around the ghetto. For 20 days the Uprising fought for their lives until their command bunker was captured on May 8.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezHGKff8_F4l-Ip4pwWrXxyL_S2vlynpgtrxObGhfsnilGKwY0i9m8Q3AC2uj_l6Icf02etuiWKCWKz41kbw3cx0obimlPSeqSBPPzJ9lXuXr2fAfGOje4igr_HNRQjIqx3US57Fv2Sa7/s1600/ghetto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezHGKff8_F4l-Ip4pwWrXxyL_S2vlynpgtrxObGhfsnilGKwY0i9m8Q3AC2uj_l6Icf02etuiWKCWKz41kbw3cx0obimlPSeqSBPPzJ9lXuXr2fAfGOje4igr_HNRQjIqx3US57Fv2Sa7/s1600/ghetto.jpg" height="226" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Warsaw Ghetto after the Uprising had ended.<br />Photo courtesy of the <a href="http://www.ushmm.org/wlc/en/media_ph.php?ModuleId=10005188&MediaId=705" target="_blank">United States Holocaust Memorial Museum</a></td></tr>
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<br />
While nearly 100% of those in the Warsaw ghetto were murdered for their efforts and the ghetto itself was reduced to ruin, the spirit of what they had accomplished lived on and rumors of their successes spread across Europe. In the ultimate cry of "We're not going to take it anymore!" they rose up and fought for their freedom when they had no choice left.<br />
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Ultimately the Warsaw Ghetto Rebellion was the largest rebellion by the Jewish population and the first urban uprising against the Nazis. They are the ones that inspired thousands to fight for their own freedom and turn the tide against the Germans in formal resistance movements.<br />
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May the Lord bless those who have risen up against tyranny and those who came to their aid.<br />
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"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." ~ Matthew 5:9 Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-17213683606946491702014-04-01T09:59:00.002-07:002014-04-01T10:04:21.042-07:00Children's "Television"Okay, I know there is a LOT of debate out there about how much screen time and if children should have any screen time, should they only have tv vs. computers vs. tablets etc. but allow me to deviate and not discuss ANY of that today. Today I want to focus on something that had somehow escaped me until this morning.<br />
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We're visiting family right now and we're having a lovely time. When we're at home, our television is usually on our favorite news in the AM and the kids often watch with us. If we aren't watching that it's usually off. I don't have "children's television" on 99% of the time when the tv is on. This morning I was busy and my oldest turned on the tv to occupy himself and his little brother. They were enjoying it as I ran in and out of the room attending to laundry, breakfast, and a host of other things until the inevitable BAD thing happened.<br />
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I noticed Sesame Street was on. I honestly didn't think a thing of it. The Count was receiving the Noble Peace Prize for Counting. Okay. Then via the segment they explained what an imposter was. Alright. Later on as I sat at the dining room table I giggled as a segment began with the music of Les Miserables in which Cookie Monster plays Jean Valjean and the other players covet his cookies.<br />
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And now they have my attention. I was a music major in college and this is one of my FAVORITE shows. I'm ready to giggle as we watch a Sesame Street adaptation of a modern classic.<br />
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Except it wasn't. Jean Valjean encounters Fantine and basically tells her to take a long walk off a short bridge. He refuses Cosette's pleas for help as well with a "well, I know how you feel but get your own cookies and then you'll feel better". WHAT?!?!?!?!?<br />
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Then as the French Resistance forms they are planning to attack....get this...Valjean because he won't share his cookies with anyone.<br />
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Wait....WHAT!?!?!?!? Valjean is not the villian of the play. Not even close!!!!!<br />
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So out of fear Valjean capitulates and decides he should share his cookies and then they're all happy.<br />
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Ummmm.....NO.<br />
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Fortunately shortly after that tirade the "new" version of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood". 100% animated and hosted by Daniel Tiger, an animated tiger child who during this particular episode was throwing tantrums and having difficulty using his words.<br />
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Ummm.......NO.<br />
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Mr. Rogers is NOT able to be replace by a child Tiger who can't get his act together. NO. That's where I hit my limit. What I LOVED about Mr Rogers as a child was not just that he was "on tv". He was real. It was a REAL world that also went into "make believe" with a pointed difference when it was done. He did REAL things. He showed the world kindness, love, compassion, and heart. He gave real life examples of manners, not as the "point" of one show but consistently through EVERY show.<br />
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I blew up. I hopped on Amazon Prime and pulled out the vintage Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood episodes from when I was a child. They watched him come in and take off his suit coat, zip on his cardigan, and put on his sneakers to hang out with them for 30 minutes. Today Mr. Rogers went to buy shoes back in 1982. They didn't have the original kind he wanted but had another pair that fit far better. Then he went home and hung out with all the other characters for awhile. I'm currently curled up with my boys watching Mr. Rogers sing the ending song.<br />
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"It's such a good feeling, a very good feeling the feeling you know that I'll be back when the day is new and I'll have more ideas for you and you'll have things you'll want to talk about. I will too."Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-87700919816648688622014-03-06T14:55:00.000-08:002014-03-06T14:55:04.474-08:00Dancing in the RainBack in my Protestant days I had a wonderful pastor who taught me many things, but 2 have really stuck with me and brought me closer to God.<br />
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1. You have two choices. You can do it God's way now or you can do it God's way later.<br />
2. When you are not going the right way, God will smack you upside the head with it and tell you to get back on track.<br />
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Today was a #2 day. I used to be a "fun mom". I was the mom that would just drop everything to go and have fun. Impromtu field trips, uninhibited giggle fests...life with me was always fun. The work got done, but the fun was always part of it.<br />
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For the past year life has not been very fun. Life has been an endless run of doctor's appointments, tension, and crazy juggling of entirely too much stress. Money's been tight and burden has been overwhelming. Somewhere in there I forgot the fun. I've been so worried about everything that I haven't just gone and done something full of joy in months. That's not me. That's not the Mom I want my kids to remember. <br />
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Soon we will be leaving on a work trip that will take us 3 days to reach. I will find a way to put in fun. I will stop begin a grumpy mom who is consumed with all the "have to do"s and none of the "want to do"s. I will stop breaking promises I never intended to break. I will be the mom I had instead of the mom I am becoming.<br />
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God is calling me on my current condition. It's no wonder that I don't know who I am anymore - any remnants of who I was have been eroded over the past year. My children deserve to have the best life with me I can give them - and that includes spontaneity and sparks of life as well as love. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-56154333224026386112014-02-09T20:14:00.001-08:002014-02-09T20:14:31.478-08:00Gardening 101-3: Companion PlantingOkay, so we didn't make this all in 1 week but I wanted to get to this before any of you actually started putting plants in the ground!<br />
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Now that we've selected our plants, we can move on to how we are going to plant them. Sure, you can just toss them in however floats your boat but plants, like people, get along better with some plants than others. Other plants act like Great Aunt Martha and tend to discourage the growth and fruitfulness of certain other plants. Still others, when they are placed together will actually improve production and health of the plants.<br />
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(Sorry - I usually write much better than this but there just aren't many synonyms for a generic word for "plant".)<br />
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There are many ways to find out which plants are "best friends" and which are "mortal enemies". My personal favorite is where people have already done most of the work for me. These Companion Planting Charts are just some examples of the W-I-D-E variety available on the internet. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_cLK4ZmFiYlOEbixkptBAYpv05O0fazfzoOq35sNWUu3A0xfYwvlIchiIYDfjF4M26iKgMTIxAvlVffaI7_CGIdUhr8abbMHZTTdVJf_OXC-pGZU7Ur4SXi1i6Vh3fselrQPndeLlnux/s1600/Planting+Chart+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_cLK4ZmFiYlOEbixkptBAYpv05O0fazfzoOq35sNWUu3A0xfYwvlIchiIYDfjF4M26iKgMTIxAvlVffaI7_CGIdUhr8abbMHZTTdVJf_OXC-pGZU7Ur4SXi1i6Vh3fselrQPndeLlnux/s1600/Planting+Chart+1.jpg" height="226" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of <a href="http://hines.blogspot.com/2013/06/companion-planting-chart-companion.html" target="_blank">Hines Farm Blog</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi42BZsTTIfxyegXSk9dsQ43zW4eauhTiXR8y73Y1vm2bcW83s6sMhz7fIJMVh7aDhio4-8gX44piDRQoINDj0iRg17FEglfSonIvYLBaflIwfPIoKlZqcj_gH94ZoHBgTDn3bvr_DuaKO_/s1600/Planting+Chart+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi42BZsTTIfxyegXSk9dsQ43zW4eauhTiXR8y73Y1vm2bcW83s6sMhz7fIJMVh7aDhio4-8gX44piDRQoINDj0iRg17FEglfSonIvYLBaflIwfPIoKlZqcj_gH94ZoHBgTDn3bvr_DuaKO_/s1600/Planting+Chart+2.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of <a href="http://hines.blogspot.com/2013/06/companion-planting-chart-companion.html" target="_blank">Hines Farm Blog</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvwzQCTwVWvCK8x3r2onQ-O7zl8mK1HH9DniWdyYnGmo6rhXcyQuSx53uuk-WSNEDdfbuBvLGsSVitasiWz-61PRrs36f3s7JO0aJJbF_2SNlaUEkcL-b09F8HER8xLtz4kGcBdYp24ez/s1600/Planting+Chart+3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvwzQCTwVWvCK8x3r2onQ-O7zl8mK1HH9DniWdyYnGmo6rhXcyQuSx53uuk-WSNEDdfbuBvLGsSVitasiWz-61PRrs36f3s7JO0aJJbF_2SNlaUEkcL-b09F8HER8xLtz4kGcBdYp24ez/s1600/Planting+Chart+3.gif" height="302" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of <a href="http://edc-prepping.blogspot.com/2012/05/more-on-companion-planting.html" target="_blank">EDC and Prepping Blog</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYKKY1Ami3V3yg8SrUGpUWHjGu0WV7T7LwbO1-D6WLzHtgOedgzy2oSr5bWKh0_d3l9GRk0zcExQaWx8xQzZFWjM02-GbYty3y0BxEbydpjFnbfbPUMXTmqHEhaqwsG7st1s-xg1JrLd8/s1600/Planting+Chart+5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYKKY1Ami3V3yg8SrUGpUWHjGu0WV7T7LwbO1-D6WLzHtgOedgzy2oSr5bWKh0_d3l9GRk0zcExQaWx8xQzZFWjM02-GbYty3y0BxEbydpjFnbfbPUMXTmqHEhaqwsG7st1s-xg1JrLd8/s1600/Planting+Chart+5.gif" height="254" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of <a href="http://www.small-farm-permaculture-and-sustainable-living.com/planting_companion_vegetables_and_herbs.html" target="_blank">Fantastic Farms</a></td></tr>
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Depending on how you learn and process one may speak to you more than the others. Companion planting does more than just encourage growth, it can reduce the amount of pesticides needed and create better soil conditions.<br />
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For example, let's say you want to grow corn, beans, and squash. You have limited space in your garden. You can plant the corn with the pole beans right next to it and the squash intermingled among it. The pole beans will actually train and trellis up the stalks of corn and the squash as it grows and vines will help prevent weeds at the base of the corn and bean plants. <br />
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But wait, it gets even better! The beans actually put nitrogen into the soil as part of their "waste product" as a plant. The corn and squash need that nitrogen to grow! These plants actually form a symbiotic relationship with each other and thrive because of their relationship. These 3 plants together are known as the Three Sisters Garden. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUw1uxSRQcP9kXkAQ9g_RQ9Hx5HKAEwKyd4rAr_OIyfPKpqfu_E_HdD_KvzoFDXQA228i58qpLRVfggWharqMBpzHIf3dznUmZgZaxAbKtE-dpGWK8wIp3b0BpkPfH0zvhUj8BkP48DzC/s1600/Three+Sisters.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUw1uxSRQcP9kXkAQ9g_RQ9Hx5HKAEwKyd4rAr_OIyfPKpqfu_E_HdD_KvzoFDXQA228i58qpLRVfggWharqMBpzHIf3dznUmZgZaxAbKtE-dpGWK8wIp3b0BpkPfH0zvhUj8BkP48DzC/s1600/Three+Sisters.gif" height="320" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of <a href="http://faq.gardenweb.com/faq/lists/teach/2003045238014436.html" target="_blank">GardenWeb</a></td></tr>
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The Three Sisters Garden is an example of an advanced kind of companion planting called "interplanting". There are many more examples available if y<a href="http://www.garden.org/ediblelandscaping/?page=201005-interplanting" target="_blank">ou're interested from The National Gardening Association</a>. Sometimes the Three Sisters are even used to create architectural design in a garden designed for viewing pleasure as well as edible yumminess adding vertical height and a neat, full presentation of greenery.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzBCBU7JruU9Lmj6FA_i4eb4gHsmgBUyMYf6dxqRkHvTWn38Ya-z6GV9MffwkU7knsaVhNYpcFro6KjrKXSRGOzaXbpzgc_-uFHL72F3TeCFIVEOD02Ype1aavngZ1WCv-GtS-bF7OgA5/s1600/Three+Sisters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzBCBU7JruU9Lmj6FA_i4eb4gHsmgBUyMYf6dxqRkHvTWn38Ya-z6GV9MffwkU7knsaVhNYpcFro6KjrKXSRGOzaXbpzgc_-uFHL72F3TeCFIVEOD02Ype1aavngZ1WCv-GtS-bF7OgA5/s1600/Three+Sisters.jpg" height="201" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of <a href="http://www.aihd.ku.edu/gardens/ThreeSistersGarden.html" target="_blank">American Indian Health and Diet Project</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-5040279479467107642014-02-09T01:13:00.004-08:002014-02-09T10:49:18.814-08:00HowardI often write about my new found Catholic faith but tonight I was waxing poetic in my mind and felt the need to share it with you.<br />
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Back in my youth **** years ago I used to attend a dual denomination Protestant Church - United Methodist and United Church of Christ to be exact. I was confirmed there and then became very involved in the youth group and choir. I led an active faith life because of the choir and fought to be allowed in much younger than was "normally acceptable". I was a "regular Sunday attendee" because I had to be, not necessarily because I wanted to be. We were an important part of the service and therefore the expectation was that you would be there providing you weren't pushing up daisies. <br />
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Howard was an elderly gentleman and our token Baptist after the Baptists kicked him out for being too zealous or whatever reason. There were many stories about Howard. He was a kind soul and a bit lost but nonetheless he was ours. After something he really liked, a rolling hymn, a rousing choir song, a sermon with gusto, Howard would occasionally stand up and yell in true Baptist fashion "AMEN!" and there would be a smattering of giggles, suppressed murmurs, and quiet smiles.<br />
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For those attending, particularly those of us who sang in the choir or served otherwise in what Catholics would call "liturgical ministries", it was a sign of a job well done and of sending a message home in a particularly good effort. "AMEN!" meant we'd done our job well that week - a little pat on the head straight from God spoken through this odd little 5'4" 80 year old Baptist in the third pew. <br />
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There are days when I miss Howard and his "AMEN!". When I am feeling low and sad, that "AMEN!" meant the world to me. When I really nailed my first solo in the parish which was a very bluesy gutsy kind of number with all kinds of slides and swoops, Howard said, "AMEN!" When I told the story about what it was like to be the wife of a disabled veteran and to go through getting "the call", Howard said "AMEN!". I worked hard for that "AMEN!", that sign of instant approval that what I was doing was right.<br />
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Catholics have a harder road in this way. Of course if my church hadn't had Howard there wouldn't have been any acknowledgement either other than people congratulating you after the service which I have always hated. My voice and talents are for the glory of God, not man. I am never comfortable when someone compliments me but to rouse Howard out of pew meant more to me than all the other praises. I was never embarrassed by the "AMEN!". That was the point. ;)<br />
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We do not always get a sign of instant approval in this life. Indeed, the "AMEN!" moments we may have are often rare indeed - especially when we are looking for gratification from the exterior world instead of the interior. No one jumps up and applauds you for doing the dishes. I've yet to see someone leap for joy at a freshly vacuumed carpet. I have occasionally danced because someone helped take out the trash and am also somewhat known for praising the Lord for clean laundry, especially WARM clean laundry.<br />
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Doing the things we need to do in this world can be dull indeed - instant gratification is our society's primary vice. We are told to "offer it up" and to "pray the day" - I believe in that with all of my heart but sometimes the performer in me runs off with my brain and I miss the old days of Howard.<br />
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Catholicism is not a religion of instant gratification. We are here to sacrifice, to serve. We are here for much more than "Alleluia" and "AMEN!". In many ways we are here to pay the penance not only for our own sin, but for the rampant sinning of others. We get the short end of the stick and the crummy dry bits on the edge of the casserole dish on this side of the world.<br />
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Oh the Glory you will know...that beautiful wonderful day that shall come when you feel in your heart that what you are doing is pleasing to the Lord. When you're doing dishes and look out the window to see your children playing Mass in the yard, when you sit down quietly to pray and your children gather around you and join, when you least expect it and most need it there will be that "good Mama" pat on the head from Him.<br />
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Sojourn on and just know that somewhere out there, even in the darkest of moments when you are fighting through the day that you are doing what you can in this world to make it a better place. "Greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his friends." I propose "Greater love hath no mother than to lay down her life for her family." <br />
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And Howard said, "AMEN!". Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-74441555316027992392014-01-06T07:00:00.000-08:002014-01-06T19:32:32.042-08:00Gardening 101-2 - Choosing Plants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today's step is not for the faint-hearted. If you're going to be growing plants that are already seedlings or even tiny actual plants (or sometimes large ones - our local nursery is well known for tomato plants that are 1 foot or taller!) this is a step that may need to be held in place until you are about to buy your plants because you will be basing your choices on the options available. If you're a "seed family" or purchase "offers" of plants from online wholesalers, this is where you need to start your process.<br />
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All sellers of seeds/offers/starters/bulbs are not equal. Many will do their best to entice you in with offers of sales. Others will have fancy schmancy websites designed to make you drool over the lovely produce that can be yours for the bargain price of only $19.95! Another favorite is the "This plant is an exclusive of Company XYZ!"<br />
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To choose your plants you need to develop your own "plant requirements". No different than choosing a curriculum, a recipe book, or anything else you would purchase for your family you need to know the following at a bare minimum.<br />
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1. Will your family eat what this plant bears?<br />
2. Can you grow it where you live?<br />
3. Does it have special growing requirements and can you meet those needs?<br />
4. Is it a GMO seed/starter/bulb? <br />
5. Can I preserve what this plant will yield?<br />
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Let's dissect these one by one.<br />
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<b>1. Will your family eat what this plant bears?</b><br />
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Chances are if you're already feeding your family on a regular basis, you already know what they will and will not eat. There is no point in growing broccoli if no one in your family will eat it<b> unless </b>you are planning to grow it for barter/sale. If you have a local farmer's market that doesn't require certification to sell or you have friends/family willing to purchase from you and/or trade work for veggies, planting a few things you don't want can be lucrative!. Plan in advance what you're going to do with that plant. Start thinking in terms of "I buy X bags of potatoes per month that weigh Y." You're going to need this information for Day 4!<br />
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<b>2. Can you grow it where you live?</b><br />
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Some plants just do not grow well near where you live. A perfect example of this is that I absolutely love pears but there is not a pear tree on the planet that will survive where I live outdoors. -40 winters make for interesting growing seasons. Other plants, such as blueberries, don't like extreme heat. Learn about the plant you wish to grow and do some homework, especially if you are planting to grow perennials or things that will bear fruit year after year.<br />
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The way you can tell if a plant is able to be grown in your neck of the woods is to find out what Hardiness Zone you live in. The USDA provides you with an excellent <a href="http://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZMWeb/" target="_blank">Zone Finder</a> on their website. Just punch in your zip code and find out what zone you live in. Alternately you can look at the map below and take your best "guess". If you live near an edge, please go use the zone finder and don't gamble with your planting. Your Hardiness Zone is based on how cold it gets where you live in the winter. You can "bump" the zone of some plants but we'll get into that far later down the road. I recommend first time gardeners plant 1 zone colder (lower number) than where they live if you're in a cold region whenever possible. I grew up in zone 5b and without fail plants that could go into zone 4 always performed exceptionally well. Now I live in zone 3b and honestly, it's a push quite often without running a special needs camp for plants!<br />
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One of the best ways to do that homework is to start talking to locals who have gardens. We are blessed that the pastor of the church that hosts our Boy Scout Troop also has a small orchard and is willing to share all his tips and tricks with us. Start networking with the locals and become friendly with Google. You'll be amazed what you can learn. Gardeners love to find other gardeners. We're rather passionate about our hobby. <br />
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<b>3. Does it have special growing requirements and can you meet those needs?</b><br />
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Plants are like people. Some will just go with the flow and be happy where they land such as strawberries and peppermint. In your area these are likely to be the kind of plants you can find when you go for a walk through nature. Others are rather picky. They may need a certain kind of soil. They may want some shade or need full light. Look at where you're planning to plant and then think about what will work in there. Most fruit bearing plants like full sun places. They want lots of sun to get lots of energy to bear lots of fruit. Take a look into what your plant likes before you commit to attempting to grow it. As you develop more time gardening you will be able to make more adaptations to your accommodate more "difficult" plants but until you know but if this is year one, this is not the time. For more advanced gardeners or those wanting to attempt to make some minor adaptations, we will be addressing those in the upcoming weeks. <br />
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<b>4. Is it a GMO seed/starter/bulb?</b><br />
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I cannot emphasize enough how much this is a very personal choice for each family. Some families live in areas where GMOs are especially helpful because they have a short growing season and/or other difficult conditions to overcome. Other families vehemently do not want GMO plants in their gardens. Whatever your choice is, be ready to move forward with your family's goals in mind. If you're a non-GMO family get ready to make more adaptations to accommodate those plants. <br />
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Plants aren't going to be running around with a "I'm a GMO!!" tag on them. You really have 2 options. You can weed through more traditional seed markets and look for taglines such as "heirloom", "organic" (be careful - not always *really* organic!), and "wild harvested". Some taglines to avoid: "exclusive", "hybrid", "modified", "adapted", and "improved yield".<br />
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If you're willing to purchase your seeds/starters/bulbs online and/or are planning to purchase in person and want non-GMO products, please refer to the <a href="http://www.councilforresponsiblegenetics.org/ViewPage.aspx?pageId=261" target="_blank">Council for Responsible Genetics Safe Seed Pledge List</a>. This is the most comprehensive list of companies that promise to only supply non-GMO products and purchase from non-GMO sources.<br />
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<b>5. Can I preserve what this plant will yield?</b><br />
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Ah, the ultimate question. Do I have the skills necessary to finish the job? Sure, I can start it, grow it, and harvest it but can I actually manage to eat it? Think about how you eat the plant that you wish to grow.<br />
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Let's talk carrots. Carrots are fairly friendly in terms of a plant to grow and they're really a marvelous "starter" root vegetable. Our family eats carrots fresh, steamed, and in stew.<br />
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How can you purchase carrots in the market? Usually they're in bags. You have the "baby carrot" option (not really that great for you - do your homework!). The other "major" choice for carrots would be the frozen and canned sections. So, carrots can be kept fresh for a period of time in bags, canned or frozen. <br />
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I'm going to get a bit ahead of myself and give you some figures. In #1 I told you to start collecting these and you're about to see why. Our family eats approximately 1.5 5 pound bags of carrots a month. That means we eat about 7.5 pounds of carrots a month. Times 12 is 90 pounds of carrots a year. I don't know about you, but I can't fit 90 lbs. of carrots in my freezer. There simply isn't enough space to accommodate them all! I could can 90 lbs. of carrots, but I'm not a fan of canned carrots and we like to eat about half of our yield raw so that really won't work for me anyway.<br />
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So how does one keep 90 lbs. of carrots?<br />
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First off, I don't need to keep 90 lbs. of carrots. I know that carrots take about 2 months to grow so for the months that I can have a garden growing starting at 2 months in I can start pulling carrots. Carrots are first sewn 2-3 weeks before the last frost of the year so I can have fresh carrots to eat straight out of my garden beginning in June. The end of my natural growing season usually sometime in late August. I might, if I'm lucky, eek out a week of September before the temperatures begin to plummet. That gives me about 3 months (or 22 lbs.) of carrots I don't need to preserve.<br />
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But carrots are magical little plants. They don't mind a bit of cold, especially if you loan them a blanket. By putting a frost cover (blanket) on my carrots, I will be able to pull them well after the first frost. In fact, the variety of carrots I harvest can actually stay in the ground...ready for this?...ALL WINTER LONG.<br />
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That's right. I don't have to preserve a single of my 90 lbs. of carrots as long as my soil is loose enough to continue pulling them after it freezes (it is here). In fact, if you leave carrots in the ground through the winter, they get sweeter over time! I just have to dig through the snow to get to them occasionally so I keep them in a part of my garden that is easy to access throughout the winter.<br />
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Now, not everyone wants to grow carrots and certainly not all plants can do this, but it gives you an idea of what can be done to preserve your produce now with a bit of creativity and some planning. Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-65524210263056232742014-01-05T10:29:00.002-08:002014-01-05T11:41:04.481-08:00Planning a Garden 101 - Episode 1It has come to my attention that many of my friends are planning to start and/or expand gardens during 2014. Laudable goals my friends! Excited to have you joining us on the journey! That said, it appears from speaking to many of you that you are lacking in experience and/or knowledge that might be helpful to you. Based on these observations I come bearing good news.<br />
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This year, our family will be growing a large garden entirely from seeds, bulbs and a handful of starters (potatoes and strawberries primarily). Purchasing the plants at stores has yielded little to no positive results in the past with the exception of tomatoes so we're going rogue this year and thought we would invite you on the journey. Over and above that most plants offered in stores are GMO based and will not yield seed that can be harvested for the following year. I have been "playing" with seeds for quite some time and am looking forward to helping you turn your shopping experience in a store into one that takes place 100% under your control. <br />
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This also becomes a GIANT homeschool project for any family. Not a homeschooler? We could care less. As far as we're concerned if you're an active parent in the lives of your children we're very happy to have you on board as a "part time homeschooler". You'll realize you're one of us soon enough. You are, as I call them, a "homeschooler who just happens to send their children to school". <br />
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Before we start this journey of purchasing and planting, we must begin with plotting. One must plot a garden or the garden will never succeed. For the next week, I am going to show you how I plot my gardens and the steps I take to do so as I am doing them. The good news is while you can follow me now, this series really isn't meant to be acted on immediately unless you also live in the great frozen tundra like me (Montana, but close enough! LOL). This week's gardening posts will be:<br />
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1. Choosing Plants: Some plants are superior to others, learn how to figure out what is best for your family.<br />
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2. Companion Planting: Some plants are itching to go on dates with each other. Others would rather fling rotten tomatoes. Avoid mistakes in your garden's placement now!<br />
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3. How Much to Plant: Calculating how much product you need based on the average yield of a plant.<br />
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4. Planting Plans: How to develop them and the most effective ways to implement them.<br />
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5. Plotting a Garden: How to make the first 4 posts work together to create the perfect garden!<br />
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See you tomorrow!Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-84041258188573556282014-01-04T16:13:00.000-08:002014-01-04T16:13:11.420-08:00My Favorite 4-Letter WordI will admit that unfortunately I occasionally use 4-Letter Words. You know - the ones we're not supposed to use. I try very hard not to use them, but occasionally one just flies out and I have to do my very best to reign in back in and apologize to those in my presence.<br />
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I have noticed, however, that money seems to be the cause of many 4-Letter Words - particularly the lack of money. Forgetting one's wallet, unexpected expenses, and other "oops" moments tend to lead to the use of 4-Letter Words, often many of them and strung together.<br />
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Today I was talking with a friend who is beginning to write a Science Curriculum about money, curriculum, and the homeschool market and she stumbled upon my very favorite 4-Letter Word. You know, the one that begins with an "F".<br />
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FREE<br />
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Okay, maybe it's not my very favorite, but it's definitely in the top 10. Love would probably outrank it along with Hope, but it's definitely up there.<br />
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FREE - Every homeschooler's favorite word. We love "free" but as we all know there is an innate problem with this particular 4-Letter Word than can lead to the use of other, less desirable 4-Letter Words. As my father always likes to remind me, "Honey, you get what you pay for."<br />
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Often I've found the inverse to be true, especially with some extra effort on my part. Using old textbooks on Gutenberg Press would be one example - what a treasure trove!!! Hand me down curricula from friends has enriched not only my library but also my own mind. Random books found at libraries that were ready to toss them in dumpsters round out some more of my 4-Letter Word collection. <br />
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This year, as you're beginning to sort through the good, the bad, and the ugly, take a look at some good 4-Letter Word options - for your homeschooling, your faith, and even your home! Some of my favorite projects are compiled completely from 4-Letter Word supplies! <br />
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In 2014, let us embrace the 4-Letter Word!!!!Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-57076372910004370882013-12-09T20:00:00.003-08:002013-12-09T20:00:43.637-08:00The Hope ChestYesterday we were going though my bedroom and reorganizing things. I said to my son "Please hand me that sweater on my hope chest" and he looked at me confused so I pointed to it and he handed it to me saying "What's a hope chest?"<br /><br />I explained the concept of a trousseau to him and that this particular chest had been passed down through generations to me. I told him about all the things my mother first collected for my future home. The very first item that went in, hand embroidered linens done by my great-grandmother before she passed when I was 5. My first edition to the chest I chose was after his father and I were engaged when I purchased our first set of china and placed it into the chest. The final pieces were given at my bridal shower, a handmade quilt made by my grandmother, her last as she was already suffering with dementia. The other was a recipe book made by all those in attendance and those who could not come, all sharing precious family recipes - my very favorite of what they made.<br />
<br />He asked me if boys got to have one and I giggled and said, "No, they're for girls honey." I talked with him a bit about the things he had brought to our marriage, securing a home for us to live in as well as some furniture. Then he asked if his future wife would have one and I explained that very few families filled hope chests by the time I got married and it was very likely her family would not have one for her either. <br /><br />He thought for a moment and then said, "So that's why you give me useful things for gifts." I told him yes. I also told him that as he settled on a bride someday that I would find out if her family had prepared for her being married and if not that our family would help provide some of the things they would need together. In the meantime, we would do our best to help him be ready with the things a man traditionally brings to a marriage so they are not scrambling for everything they need. We would encourage him to live on his own before he seeks a bride so he can support her and know how to manage the finances of a household and know if he can support a family or not. We would help him learn how to take care of his family and cherish them as God wanted him to.<br />
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He accepted that and went on with his day. Then today I noticed he'd taken a bag and set it to the side in his room. When I asked him what he was doing he said, "I'm starting a bag for when I get married." In there he had some of the tools we have given him, his Rosary from his Confirmation, and a few other little odds and ends that would be useful in running a home.<br />
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So I came to sit here tonight and ponder - do you talk about these things with your children? Do you plan to prepare them for married/consecrated life? Were you prepared like this by your family or was I truly the last of my generation? Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1858033876860976364.post-75722872790668009052013-12-06T18:41:00.002-08:002013-12-06T18:41:12.679-08:00Food Budgeting Tips for the HolidaysThe more I talk to friends the more I am hearing the same thing. Money is tight from one end to the other and it seems everyone is pinching pennies trying to make this a great Christmas. While we anxiously await the birth of Christ we also often have anxiety over the credit card bills to come or the age old "will there be enough". A few days ago I blogged about what <a href="http://catholiccreativity.blogspot.com/2013/12/10-things-my-prior-christmases-taught-me.html" target="_blank">past Christmases had taught me</a>. Today I want to help everyone start developing a strategy to help survive the season with their budget still intact.<br />
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1. Cut the cookie baking. Baking supplies are CRAZY expensive. Overflowing cookie trays are lovely but they are nowhere near as cheap to make as they have been in years gone by. Cut down to making the "must have" cookies. Let each family member pick 1 recipe they REALLY want and then if it makes more than 2 dozen cookies, cut it in half. If you're a "cookie gifter", stay tuned. Tip 2 is for you.<br />
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2. Learn to bake bread instead. Bread is cheap to make, stretches meals, and looks VERY impressive. On Monday I'll be sharing my favorite basic bread recipe I use to make everything from apple stuffed rolls to garlic bread to cinnamon rolls. You can do almost anything with it and it requires hands, a large bowl, and measuring utensils. :) SUPER easy and far more frugal than the extravagant baking sprees of the past. Kids love helping to knead the dough and put baked goods together and you'll love the savings!<br />
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3. Start plotting your meals now so you can plan ahead. For example, our family Christmas Eve tradition is to have lasagna with garlic bread and a salad. By cooking extra homemade spaghetti sauce in advance and browning extra meat I can have all that ready and prepped ahead of time. The more you make yourself from scratch, the more you'll save! Make pancakes the week before and double your recipe so you'll have them already done on Christmas morning! Little things like this instead of purchasing pre-made goods save you dollars and give you more time with your family. It's a real win/win!<br />
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4. Start remaking meals into other meals. This is a favorite budget stretching tactic here. Make a larger roast on Monday. Then on Wednesday recycle half the leftover meat into a casserole. Then on Friday take the bones and the remaining meat and make a soup. 3 meals, 1 roast. To really stretch it out, either serve all the meat in soups/casseroles or serve homemade rolls with the roast to significantly cut the amount of meat that's eaten because tummies are full with all that homemade yumminess. If you can "stretch" other meals into your breakfast (ham chopped into quiche, those pancakes from #3, etc) and into your lunch (homemade soup!) your budget gets significantly cut. To make that soup even more special, serve it in homemade bread bowls with your new bread making skills from #2!<br />
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5. Pick 1-2 items to "splurge" on for your holiday meal. Even better, if others are coming turn it into a potluck for the rest of the items. Make the rest of the items more inexpensive things you can make at home. For example, we "splurge" on the ham and the chocolate peanut butter pie for Christmas Day and I use good old fashioned frozen veggies I got on sale ahead of time and cheapie baked potatoes along with homemade bread to go with it. By not overloading on dishes we save money and time as well as sanity. :) Heather Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10238085469250546906noreply@blogger.com2