tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45678309077078140112024-03-20T22:24:35.085-04:00Dominique SpeaksA blog about a Christian wife and mother, homeschooling and living a beautiful rustic life.Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.comBlogger1288125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-82176383466526784402024-03-18T12:28:00.001-04:002024-03-18T12:28:08.279-04:00Informing for the Sake of Unity<p>Perhaps this is a new series - Parenting Teens. It wasn't really planned, but I was making some observations the other day and thought I'd share them with you while they were on my mind.</p><p>As the Blossoms grow and get busier, I've found how necessary it is to keep everyone in the loop as far as the family schedule. </p><p>Every morning after their personal quiet time and then, our devotions together, we pow-wow about the day and days ahead. On Monday, we also especially pow-wow about the week ahead. </p><p>When changes inevitably must be made, it is SO important that I make sure all of the Blossoms are aware of these changes. When they understand expectations and plans, the whole day runs smoother. Attitudes are better. No one likes to be surprised... in that way. I mean, if you're talking surprise ice cream, that's a totally different story.</p><p><i>"Wait, I didn't know so-and-so was stopping over!"</i></p><p><i>"I didn't realize I had to have this done by then!"</i></p><p><i>"I didn't know we were leaving at this time!"</i></p><p><i>"I don't have this exam done; I can't go to that!"</i></p><p>With having four Blossoms, everyone is not always in the room when I make a comment or adjustment to our schedule for the day. And when 3/4 know of different expectations, that 1/4 can really throw a monkey wrench in the mix when they don't know they were supposed to be ready an hour earlier because we now have to run two more errands before Bible Quiz practice. </p><p>Blossom1 and Blossom2 have Google Calendars and we share important events with that program. It's very helpful! I'm still getting used to checking their calendars before I answer when someone asks if we're available. You'd think I'd remember if Blossom1 made a chiropractor appointment or that Blossom2 has a live lecture. BUT I DON'T. Use the tools that are out there to boost your brain power!</p><p>There's a degree of common courtesy underlying this whole approach. Understanding that I'm dealing with people. It's courteous to keep everyone in the loop. Herego, I do my best to inform everyone. </p><p>It's kinda funny but I've taken to making Public Service Announcements in our house. Sometimes I even use a silly announcer voice. Sometimes my PSA is me singing out "T-30 minutes til lift-off!" When you've got this many people leaving the house, it's just a good idea for everyone to know when time is tickin'. </p><p>It may sound ridiculous to make PSAs as there are only six of us, but let's be real, there are SIX of us! We need to be on the same page! I got tired of realizing I'd missed a Blossom or two in passing because someone was in the bathroom or something. I've realized that one way for me to parent well in this season is to be careful to inform EVERYONE.</p><p>Sometimes that means I ask the older Blossoms, </p><p><i>can you be available for this event? </i></p><p><i>Do you have room for this event in your week? </i></p><p><i>How will this affect your workload and productivity for school, if we say yes to this?</i></p><p><i>How can we make this work?</i></p><p>There's something respectful about that. Correspondingly, when I communicate that I want them to prioritize something, they usually extend that same courtesy and respect to the Rugged Mountain Man and me so we don't have to play hardball. </p><p>It's just a different approach from when I'd wake up in the morning and say, "We're going to the library today!"</p><p>Planning helps us develop and maintain unity in our family. Unity is my God-glorifying goal.</p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-81761568050114322532024-03-15T09:40:00.000-04:002024-03-15T09:40:02.068-04:00See-It-Say-ItIf there's any lesson I've learned about parenting teens, especially teen girls, it's to just say it... OUT LOUD.<div><br /></div><div>There are times I notice something good one of the Blossoms has done.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are times I see a glimmer of something good.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are times I realize they've been working really hard.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are times I recognize growth.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are times I glimpse a character trait that we've invested toward for years, awaiting the harvest of day upon day of faithful parenting.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm busy though. My brain moves on to the next thing. The thought flits away. </div><div><br /></div><div>Later on, I realize in a tearful conversation how badly one of the Blossoms needed to hear that one good thing. </div><div><br /></div><div>The impact is good when I finally say it. </div><div>The impact is better when I vocalize that good thing <i>before</i> we hit the crying through a hard conversation point. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's a simple lesson. When I see the good, SAY IT. Say it OUT LOUD.</div><div><br /></div><div>Arguably, this is a wise approach to parenting all ages. It just seems particularly pertinent to parenting teens. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><span style="font-size: medium;">See it and say it OUT LOUD.</span></i></div><div><br /></div>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-46126504912535076792024-03-07T16:03:00.000-05:002024-03-07T16:03:22.562-05:00The Dot System<p>I'm always on the lookout for good organizational tips and tricks for keeping this place running like a well-oiled machine. </p><p>As the Blossoms grow, it's getting harder and harder to tell their clothes apart when doing the wash. I find this confusing, especially when we're folding! I don't have time to hold up each article and say, "Who does this belong to?" Maybe you're laughing, but they all own at least a few pairs of black Adidas track pants... and everyone gets irritated if their pants disappear into the great abyss of someone else's dresser. </p><div style="text-align: left;">Behold, the dot system! <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(which I read about in some random mom organizational book ages ago)</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjqYh1gKzMEDGnsYvXKUPrsg8rMe32T8mk-w0NfIbHvt-y7Zxezk943Ak_xFUpfDkVg90Pkw7w3EItTE6zBfBlJVUhoS69LacT00B3vOrhuQxQC0Q8-DI1iRD2wP0FDiFHWhbdwV1uYvpt4spdtWXD_LXpwXPp8t7gHzl-0OEGeok1u9KpYw1DSP3DKQ/s4032/IMG_2915.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjqYh1gKzMEDGnsYvXKUPrsg8rMe32T8mk-w0NfIbHvt-y7Zxezk943Ak_xFUpfDkVg90Pkw7w3EItTE6zBfBlJVUhoS69LacT00B3vOrhuQxQC0Q8-DI1iRD2wP0FDiFHWhbdwV1uYvpt4spdtWXD_LXpwXPp8t7gHzl-0OEGeok1u9KpYw1DSP3DKQ/w480-h640/IMG_2915.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div></i></div><p>Blossom1 is the oldest. She gets 1 dot.</p><p>Blossom2 is 2 dots.</p><p>Blossom3 is 3 dots.</p><p>Blossom4 is the youngest and she gets 4 dots. So simple!</p><p>All you need is a Sharpie when you're folding. Find out who the item belongs to and mark the tag with the right amount of dots. The beauty is that as the girls grow and favorite items of clothing get handed down to smaller sisters, you just need to add the right amount of dots to keep the label current! </p><p>This works SO much better than initials! I don't label everything, but when we have lots of Adidas pants that are similar in a whole range of sizes, I bust out my Sharpie and get right down to dotting the tags! </p><p>Jeans that look similar... </p><p>Bible Quiz and Fine Arts team shirts that are all the same but different sizes belong to different Blossoms... </p><p>Junior sizing that is so inconsistent, no one can predict what item actually fits what Blossom...</p><p>whatever else I am confused about. </p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><i>Just dot it!</i></b></span></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-84984062802645343932024-02-27T20:49:00.003-05:002024-02-27T20:49:32.795-05:00Tea & Reading<p>I like to sit at the kitchen island and sip tea with my sister... or in this case, today I tried to make her a Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso. It wasn't as good as the ones Blossom1 makes for me, but it was drinkable. I'll try again when she's over again next week. </p><p>We talk about all sorts of things at the kitchen island while the little boys are doing activities with the Younger Blossoms in the dining room. I kept glancing over and noticing Blossom3 helping one of her cousins memorize and choreograph a Shel Silverstein poem... something about April Fools. Their big motions and enunciation made me smile. </p><p>Sometimes we talk about giving our husbands haircuts. Sometimes we talk about our latest thrifting finds. Sometimes we talk about what the girls or the boys are up to. </p><p>We haven't talked about books lately, but books are always a good idea! That's the kind of post this is... a sitting at the kitchen island, talking about books kind of post. </p><p>Have you read anything good lately? </p><p>A friend sent me this very thought-provoking post about <a href="https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2024/02/92777/#:~:text=Busyness%20gives%20the%20impression%20of,are%20released%20from%20busywork%20and" target="_blank">the valorization of busyness.</a> Read it. It's totally worth it! This article re-iterated an unpopular truth that what I do in a day might not be "productive," but it is good. Am I following the leading of the Spirit as to how I fill my days? Am I measuring my days with His standard or the world's standard? Busyness, in and of itself, is not a measure of success. Have I chosen according to the Lord's wisdom?</p><p>I just finished <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Love-Ways-Build-Lasting-ebook/dp/B081MPRPS1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=14OXCMT4VT3KN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.qP4YUSNsx3gOwPI-e1GAjQ.IPIIuk-NBJe759nDm9jzFyXdh_Uts1t36DNDZlDBkng&dib_tag=se&keywords=creative+love+by+jeremy+and+audrey+roloff&qid=1709082681&s=digital-text&sprefix=creative+love+by+j%2Cdigital-text%2C541&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Creative Love</a> by Jeremy and Audrey Roloff. It was a quick little read that I picked up when the Rugged Mountain Man and I were wandering the aisles of the Ollie's book section on his birthday. The Ollie's book section is our small town equivalent of a bookstore date. <u>Creative Love</u> was a quick little read that was inspiring. Their stories kept it light-hearted and their style kept it personal. It was full of ideas for investing in your marriage and relationship for the long haul. I really liked hearing what they were doing to build a marriage that lasts a lifetime. Overall, I would recommend it as a mini-manual of ideas and principles for anyone building a healthy, long-lasting relationship. </p><p>Somebody mentioned something in conversation the other day about starting a bakery, and it took me back to the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Baxter-Family-Bakery-Complete-Collection-ebook/dp/B087N3CPYB/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1S2QZVUQKY17M&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EXoIWH2gnNQGCz5xRheVrzaUz9L1uQc1DG6wXT5dH_3zr876goWOzzBu8IEQjNHBh3IKlmvkQszyW7uRCcdzM6XXWwcBZ0CsTqz4TkpsTQQfsMCvjRaTIrsCXkp95c84FPIDowGsGEIJesJBWywsM5kXIOjVmZ2NUXBWdxb1srE_EVqFtnwfrieQ2Jxpqt4rY5ZqEZ1jTV0uVdz8VtoLMFT8JLiMyJWl_aXhbtMGwzE.eVvpt-CjdenJIQ9t63ezMbblhx5JxVpQ9psLDENlM5s&dib_tag=se&keywords=baxter%2C+elizabeth+maddrey&qid=1709083123&s=digital-text&sprefix=baxter%2C+elizabeth+maddrey%2Cdigital-text%2C216&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Baxter Family Bakery</a> series by Elizabeth Maddrey. I first read this series a couple of years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. Perhaps it's the fact that it's centered around four siblings in a small town. Whatever the reason, I love the small town vibe, the new business startup, the real characters, and the easy reading. Clean Christian romance for the win! Her <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Billionaires-Nanny-Contemporary-Christian-Billionaire-ebook/dp/B09TM158VN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2HRSUYOI7SYD5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sfZ7nydVIW7e8g7ApRoImfrQ3XI-ebSsqBCi9PBlkMVusvEX9-P719H6dyBDSPTh8yV68DeYKz-PtwB09XeTC6NlPnQjlf7IJRdyELmHBgcrctRbi5qknSF1xMadbUvZ.AiQ8_GM3wiN4hMpMYxHb1hGi2IlVTsIkLUFjbj0LVow&dib_tag=se&keywords=billionaire+next+door%2C+elizabeth+maddrey&qid=1709083849&s=digital-text&sprefix=billionaire+%2C+elizabeth+maddrey%2Cdigital-text%2C1094&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Billionaire Next Door series</a> is awfully fun too!</p><p>Christy Barritt is another favorite author of mine. She released <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Operative-Agency-Book-ebook/dp/B0CVR4Q85B/ref=sr_1_1?crid=EKNERY8XJGUJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.-_ZdvnHs-pNtY_g2WGmxmoKol3eoHFclHBQ31Ih-jPA7wxnnPn1S6M3eP3FD0eqV1AY2oJ-u84IlDW7KEhO-uk5Zw25n781wDOxj52QctzJCimWtrEHYOBJtZXr5yHVndYEnh1fKOZSXob3sPP3Qg4-AbJDhGAwMBX0TQzXMRoI2rwMILC3AI1z_rA7Gb5ztBUXZNkogz6HPpGS3q-03vRn6Hfi1b2gxQJGcGVfKOmw.ojImSfAUiZUd4hpXTK-i-D9vTQv6JpIQvHVnhzKm6iw&dib_tag=se&keywords=shadow+operative&qid=1709083413&s=digital-text&sprefix=shadow+operative%2Cdigital-text%2C154&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Shadow Operative,</a> a new book in her latest new series. I love every one of her series that are based in and around Lantern Beach. Her bent is suspense and there's still the Nancy Drew fan in me that craves suspense. This is clean and fun. I'm looking forward to more in the Shadow Agency series!</p><p>I'd love to know what you're reading. </p><p>Hold on... I'll get out my Goodreads app and add that to my "Want to Read" list. </p><p>The best recommendations come from friends!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-72244189401445916302024-02-17T17:29:00.002-05:002024-02-17T17:29:14.753-05:00Life Skills ~ Keep it Matter of Fact<p>Now that the older Blossoms are 18 and 16, I reflect from time to time on what we have and haven't yet taught them to do. I got to thinking the other day about all the things I consider a life skill. It's not necessarily the same list that others might have and I'm good with that. </p><p>It's my job as a parent to make sure that life skills are being developed and utilized in order to move toward healthy independence.</p><p>Cooking is a life skill. Reading a recipe. Boiling water. Scrambling eggs. </p><p>I once taught a cooking class for our homeschool co-op with a dear friend. We called it, "How Not To Starve." Our premise was that if you can cook eggs, you won't starve. If you can make spaghetti, you won't starve. We hit a lot of great basics - even homemade chicken nuggets - in that 8 week class and the class still stands as a fun memory for our children.</p><div style="text-align: left;">Life Skills:<br />Making change. Ordering food. Making a phone call. Scheduling doctor's appointments. Carrying on a conversation. Driving. Advocating for yourself. Giving a speech. Making a grocery list. Knowing how to stand up for your convictions. Performing household cleaning chores. Growing something edible. Thrifting affordable clothing and housewares. Harvesting your own meat. Buying good ice cream. Sustaining a quiet time with God. Doing hard things.</div><p>I don't ask their opinion. I don't make learning life skills optional to the girls, nor do I make it a huge blown up announcement kind of thing. <b><i>We keep it matter of fact. </i></b></p><div style="text-align: left;">You live here on earth, therefore, you will learn how to _______________. <br />(Fill in the blank with the whatever the latest thing we've decided they need to know.) </div><p>They don't have to love that particular thing, but they need to be able to do it independently. As a parent, it falls to me to faithfully teach them. </p><p>You can teach your kids life skills. </p><p>Steady plodding makes good progress! Keep at it, my friends!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-57133580789102716322024-02-12T12:54:00.000-05:002024-02-12T12:54:00.843-05:00Just Some News Lately<p>What's up with us lately?</p><p>~ Blossom1 made the President's Honor List. Man, she was proud of that certificate. Being that this is more like her third year of college, she was thrilled to finally receive recognition for her hard work. (Dual Enrollment students do not get recognized on the Honor lists.) <a href="https://dominiquespeaks.blogspot.com/2023/09/and-here-we-go.html" target="_blank">She's a freshman and yet, she's not.</a></p><p>~ Punxy Phil declared that spring is on its way. Blossom3 and Blossom4 aren't sure what to think. They've been enjoying good outside time whenever possible. Blossom4 especially loves to play on my 30 year old wooden balance beam. (Thanks for spending a few hours on a Saturday morning building that thing, Dad. It's given me and the girls hours of fun throughout the years.) They enjoy sledding and winter fun, but being able to get out in the sunshine in just sweatshirts and leggings with crocs and socks being optional is where it's at. Even hiking with Daddy is a perk of Punxy's prediction as well. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunHryuUBchG4gKAzNBPoorliR6SluORSeOACktdHkWK0wa0R5yA7PG8Sb29ofzX7WXFdfBD0XuJOWfHsIC_yFtsajL-wCjztzFYtt7pLtP8cqqb3IbdWAlDvCw8sOhE8M9QCQIm784A3LfOlZNEIK0psjyzV5Y9WeulS_G7BSc8afdX0XIjVLdeDNBHk/s4032/IMG_2421.HEIC" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunHryuUBchG4gKAzNBPoorliR6SluORSeOACktdHkWK0wa0R5yA7PG8Sb29ofzX7WXFdfBD0XuJOWfHsIC_yFtsajL-wCjztzFYtt7pLtP8cqqb3IbdWAlDvCw8sOhE8M9QCQIm784A3LfOlZNEIK0psjyzV5Y9WeulS_G7BSc8afdX0XIjVLdeDNBHk/w640-h480/IMG_2421.HEIC" width="640" /></a></p><p>~ Blossom2 has been busy cranking out restaurant quality desserts. Death by Chocolate Cheesecake, Red Velvet Cupcakes, Dark Chocolate Truffles, White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, and other delicious goodness. I'm impressed at the level of quality she is putting out and I'm excited to see where she is headed with this skill. The future is bright!</p><p>~ Blossom2 and Blossom3 have been working on Fine Arts entries. This year, their team is doing an American Sign Language number. I got to watch a video of practice today and I was astonished at how much drama, expression, and choreography can be put into a routine that only involves sign language! I know it will minister to people!</p><p>Looking at life lately, it seems there's a bit of a theme. </p><p><i>Identify an interest, work hard, and see where it goes. </i></p><p>There aren't many fireworks-light bulb-rainbow-genie kind of moments in life, but there's a whole lot of chiseling away at honing skills. <i>There's a slew of perseverance. </i></p><p>Sometimes I help the Blossoms persevere and sometimes, they are inwardly driven. Either way, I'm here, intricately involved and invested in the process... supporting, encouraging, nurturing, still correcting, and...</p><p><b><i>parenting. </i></b></p><p> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-2915588070490530082024-02-06T13:58:00.002-05:002024-02-06T13:58:14.648-05:00Winter Reading<p>Winter time is for reading... among other things!</p><p>The thrill that went through my heart when I saw Blossom4 kneeling at this veritable buffet of Nancy Drew was worth all the time I've spent investing in her reading journey.</p><p>She's been knocking out Nancy Drew books in less than a day each. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVN8CLL78JKMiXlW5bFhzexqiT9PU24UHYXSwhkqp41vB0YjwLiBpmD8qcRwqhRgTaixDZDOByJfLew48CMRyWqvCNS0Vg4xNAmCBgrp7nfWoO-j7YKIPe9M-tgUi-HUEd7GP_gm6adgQCo9h9NqEOGcP2K98M-Ts58hMwzZ4Fi2XYp38CoBpVnfX0o8I/s4032/IMG_1893.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVN8CLL78JKMiXlW5bFhzexqiT9PU24UHYXSwhkqp41vB0YjwLiBpmD8qcRwqhRgTaixDZDOByJfLew48CMRyWqvCNS0Vg4xNAmCBgrp7nfWoO-j7YKIPe9M-tgUi-HUEd7GP_gm6adgQCo9h9NqEOGcP2K98M-Ts58hMwzZ4Fi2XYp38CoBpVnfX0o8I/w480-h640/IMG_1893.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the read-aloud front, we're putt-putt-putting through <u>Christmas with Anne.</u> It's a collection of Lucy Maude Montgomery's short stories and excerpts that involve Christmas and New Year's themes. Even though Christmas has marched back into our great-grandmother's storage steamer trunk for another year, the cozy winter lights remain and we snuggle down during lunch and I read. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNsTT5WtB700HySnN_gCfF5kn2-_wkx4X9lGLgVcHjOMuJvLuppgBPp-7iL3kNZn0M8_7ZxY3gkH6mx9NGjM_-8_CbuTtM6hH84Lz2ZINMOlHtx07nhcUAfjTtNVfF7I7sQIDZtZeMmQMhZ4VU7lY2Tf394jH4T0mgMCjEMGQfFqy04ELbIr6x4nWaPg/s4032/IMG_2306.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNsTT5WtB700HySnN_gCfF5kn2-_wkx4X9lGLgVcHjOMuJvLuppgBPp-7iL3kNZn0M8_7ZxY3gkH6mx9NGjM_-8_CbuTtM6hH84Lz2ZINMOlHtx07nhcUAfjTtNVfF7I7sQIDZtZeMmQMhZ4VU7lY2Tf394jH4T0mgMCjEMGQfFqy04ELbIr6x4nWaPg/w480-h640/IMG_2306.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We get busy. Our days move faster and faster it seems. And yet, why do I keep coming back to reading aloud, even when I'm only hitting my goal 2-3 times a week? <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That lunch time pause brings us together. It restores a peace to our time at home. It helps us linger over quality words and thoughts that take us deeper than mundane life. It brings opportunities for deeper discussion. It's just so good. And yes, the older Blossoms meander back to their laptops to dig back in to their college work... but sometimes they still soak up a little Anne while they're eating. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, as the days are busy... as my goals for our routine change, ebb, and flow, we keep coming back to reading this winter.</div><br /><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-10347183964379974702024-01-22T14:14:00.001-05:002024-01-22T14:14:37.808-05:00Figuring Out Supper<p>For many of us, what we're having for supper is the decision that haunts us all day. </p><p>It seems we've developed a bit of a routine over the years. My brain needs its energy to countless other innumerable challenges - </p><p>from helping Blossom2 access her online learning platform when for some reason, it just won't link despite all the access codes in the world... </p><p>to tackling slope and y-intercept challenges with Blossom3 when my brain is still absorbing my morning cuppa tea...</p><p>to helping Blossom4 remember to oil-pull for the health of her tonsils...</p><p>Oh wait, and supper? Did you say supper????</p><p><br /></p><p>My tried and true method is this:</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Decide on supper when you're dealing with breakfast,</span></b> </p><p>the very first meal of the day. </p><p>When the Blossoms filter in after devotions and chores and I'm puttering about in the kitchen with them... I decide on supper.</p><p>(I do realize that moms of littles probably aren't <i>puttering</i> about the kitchen; they're <i>scrambling</i> about the kitchen.) </p><p>But you're in the kitchen, so decide on supper. Don't worry about what you're in the mood for. Don't worry about what sounds good. Look at the time that you have for preparing supper. Look at the menu you made before you went shopping. </p><p><b>Decide. Just decide. </b></p><p>Then, pull the meat out of the freezer and put it on a plate to thaw all day. </p><p>Good job! You conquered that decision! </p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-16318985281111941142024-01-09T19:05:00.008-05:002024-01-09T19:05:46.741-05:00Crystal Fresh Air<p style="text-align: center;">Busy, busy, busy.</p><p style="text-align: center;">That's how it always is. </p><p style="text-align: center;">The snow days are refreshing, mainly because of the "margin." </p><p style="text-align: center;">The breathing room.</p><p style="text-align: center;">The schedule white space.</p><p style="text-align: center;">The time to stop.</p><p style="text-align: center;">The time to go.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKH1F71yGrunySsoWstr757AK7yhEASX4Pc0IRFcnYPlH1cmFi0eyuBX_kCLNF-iyFn1WPt7Cx0_k4fZ5c7qaEVSKY-b4QxFEp8MezpTkf0CqSDnAuhWXzah1id5PGC6Vp09TIT563EaMWoFZmu2ZGZimnj9-Jl-EV1VB1_85tiF-bci-o_VNdwgSHQ8E/s4032/IMG_1847.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKH1F71yGrunySsoWstr757AK7yhEASX4Pc0IRFcnYPlH1cmFi0eyuBX_kCLNF-iyFn1WPt7Cx0_k4fZ5c7qaEVSKY-b4QxFEp8MezpTkf0CqSDnAuhWXzah1id5PGC6Vp09TIT563EaMWoFZmu2ZGZimnj9-Jl-EV1VB1_85tiF-bci-o_VNdwgSHQ8E/w640-h480/IMG_1847.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The time to sally forth altogether instead of scattered about hither and yon.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWzwo6jtQ7qPKJQfQ86qnNiYTIp6a7NNejy4Mb09e87j6xwr2uWq_6lF6WXKELxjVvQycT1dGbSFXoOUrQg-zXl5DchWEh1iJhdV3XwDbIFdc3b6mSFmUHkqUjCCWSz_15963t9ZfrC0Tgn-XyYcNDr6yS4mVfgIlyyJqYL3qCcyPJbsFBsI0oXEXbgA0/s4032/IMG_1838.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWzwo6jtQ7qPKJQfQ86qnNiYTIp6a7NNejy4Mb09e87j6xwr2uWq_6lF6WXKELxjVvQycT1dGbSFXoOUrQg-zXl5DchWEh1iJhdV3XwDbIFdc3b6mSFmUHkqUjCCWSz_15963t9ZfrC0Tgn-XyYcNDr6yS4mVfgIlyyJqYL3qCcyPJbsFBsI0oXEXbgA0/w480-h640/IMG_1838.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Round up the thrift store finds, cobble together enough gear for the Blossoms, and venture out into the winter wonderland.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNse-zQSbnHV9w3gRjlFQpP6Y4uSUK4O24gm37qgJZt81SVO4Kz22oGxxYuhcDrK45QdIoe5CWQkJQwETdC3kp1hySzWFwRJcteHFvEbUlCP7Oelp8H07DObPZGscTBm1COoQM4kFHkcRPgtcqXCC_u_cuFlV8gUJEFZe2SvbHPVZvURaWVKuvKcXTIA/s4032/IMG_1839.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNse-zQSbnHV9w3gRjlFQpP6Y4uSUK4O24gm37qgJZt81SVO4Kz22oGxxYuhcDrK45QdIoe5CWQkJQwETdC3kp1hySzWFwRJcteHFvEbUlCP7Oelp8H07DObPZGscTBm1COoQM4kFHkcRPgtcqXCC_u_cuFlV8gUJEFZe2SvbHPVZvURaWVKuvKcXTIA/w640-h480/IMG_1839.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Breathe the crystal fresh air. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laugh at your fall in the snow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Smile at Binney's antics.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Trek a little further in. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tumble into the truck, rosey-faced, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">brushing off the snow, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">complaining that Mom took too many pics, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">breathing sighs of contentment. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-14179135291186166182023-11-17T06:30:00.006-05:002023-11-17T06:30:00.147-05:00Tom's Job<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXWHI3ilg6y3UG75lxFVc5Sw0uaWGh723O3Ba0rpEHWwlx6SLWbh61HXFGiA5kH5sr8UnFn3DFixDSAb2WhGCGFzs_EaOt77T54JO8PVV-xpU6LFyrNBJW3cU-gpX7XrG-jCF8_yM4pGqlwFPemIh7S9u3x1CDKGwDSbGQ5uXt9CXQxc1Y0__2FmQQZI/s4032/IMG_0562.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXWHI3ilg6y3UG75lxFVc5Sw0uaWGh723O3Ba0rpEHWwlx6SLWbh61HXFGiA5kH5sr8UnFn3DFixDSAb2WhGCGFzs_EaOt77T54JO8PVV-xpU6LFyrNBJW3cU-gpX7XrG-jCF8_yM4pGqlwFPemIh7S9u3x1CDKGwDSbGQ5uXt9CXQxc1Y0__2FmQQZI/w640-h480/IMG_0562.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tom made sure that no schoolwork happened this week.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3BVK3nfONDlz_kcQbZwRDxnUJdqU0NewNx3Mv_6hPdG_HhZqWRee_5Um-UjDRPb7r_VJ4chEm1F6u5Gc3YS6oKaKkImqO0tzoEnUvmc3N421xqosHTnKojpUuKr3mXMUhzsSZOT9ZDNbxlkHjRQYUyMoeRwBeXjl-KXcvzR7Dp40aun-zzZriylZEFu0/s4032/IMG_0436.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3BVK3nfONDlz_kcQbZwRDxnUJdqU0NewNx3Mv_6hPdG_HhZqWRee_5Um-UjDRPb7r_VJ4chEm1F6u5Gc3YS6oKaKkImqO0tzoEnUvmc3N421xqosHTnKojpUuKr3mXMUhzsSZOT9ZDNbxlkHjRQYUyMoeRwBeXjl-KXcvzR7Dp40aun-zzZriylZEFu0/w640-h480/IMG_0436.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And definitely no wash either. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As an aside, I'm certain that the term "barn cat" is laughable.</div><br /><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-10640728871067002942023-11-13T16:20:00.006-05:002023-11-13T16:20:55.441-05:00This is a Sign!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif3e16i4MB4nsn6aGwIkQ4NVN0smw9h4IniDUZ8-A4btgUPReXPRtuip9CYerVxrfBgslKPRsQaGu67MBQX-QFylh1hxqUmo7tkFcN_Y3CCzPRn_2nHq6rqfmb1HsyjEeEnxokhzNTo2CSGYxR6wJ3FaMyqHw1AA5Smdq_ysQrQqSA6rmlJ8y2T2B9q34/s4032/IMG_0662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif3e16i4MB4nsn6aGwIkQ4NVN0smw9h4IniDUZ8-A4btgUPReXPRtuip9CYerVxrfBgslKPRsQaGu67MBQX-QFylh1hxqUmo7tkFcN_Y3CCzPRn_2nHq6rqfmb1HsyjEeEnxokhzNTo2CSGYxR6wJ3FaMyqHw1AA5Smdq_ysQrQqSA6rmlJ8y2T2B9q34/w480-h640/IMG_0662.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p></p><p>Doesn't this sum up my parenting philosophy perfectly?</p><p>I was so thrilled to snag it on my annual thrifting/shopping trip with my sister this past weekend!</p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-73151736032911951652023-11-07T14:12:00.000-05:002023-11-07T14:12:00.674-05:00It's Not Over If...<p>At Ladies Bible Study last night, we were talking about stepping out in faith. We turned to Matthew 14:25-32, where Jesus walked on the water. Peter called to Jesus and then, stepped out on the water and started walking toward Him. Until he saw the wind and waves...</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_sEMLAowggc35QpW3whRWioA7NpUIcCiM-fatD4A4sr4DwxDYRE_-lbZ9NxtIOvy27UuZY8RrGd7uLSaWnWTKzMRo_fz44MSWNivIJkGUoUMtK8bG-zEfe9spaagfxFTiyOK693EksdUpATYpg4xiELCXZ3wdwhRdwlLbDgkzZr__irzADpQJaE7OVE/s4032/IMG_0017.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_sEMLAowggc35QpW3whRWioA7NpUIcCiM-fatD4A4sr4DwxDYRE_-lbZ9NxtIOvy27UuZY8RrGd7uLSaWnWTKzMRo_fz44MSWNivIJkGUoUMtK8bG-zEfe9spaagfxFTiyOK693EksdUpATYpg4xiELCXZ3wdwhRdwlLbDgkzZr__irzADpQJaE7OVE/w480-h640/IMG_0017.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p>I always feel like Peter gets a bad rap. </p><p>When he walked on the water, he sunk. And everybody stops right there. </p><p>Never mind that he's the only one audacious enough to call out and clamber over the side of the boat in the midst of a wild storm...</p><p>and then, to walk on dangerous water. He did walk on the water; don't forget that!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbZtQs8PgTEj1QDOurDmGdSD-gKwXw4F8aD1e2grp-T8Rp8urqTUvcbKQzZEcvz7Yo6MydrZFbuclP0-bsmFgI3MhKJmMpeGBGfdxF7YF5vgEW0aiQsDxRU19dhU18xJ8FSCI2VVgwdU5GC5n9ynTrc-MfY2VaK9xv1hLCdB8_hvEJXJT2BZ1gj2Htd0/s4032/IMG_0041.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbZtQs8PgTEj1QDOurDmGdSD-gKwXw4F8aD1e2grp-T8Rp8urqTUvcbKQzZEcvz7Yo6MydrZFbuclP0-bsmFgI3MhKJmMpeGBGfdxF7YF5vgEW0aiQsDxRU19dhU18xJ8FSCI2VVgwdU5GC5n9ynTrc-MfY2VaK9xv1hLCdB8_hvEJXJT2BZ1gj2Htd0/w480-h640/IMG_0041.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p>Sure, he started looking at the raging wind. </p><p>I can relate to that. Starting out with wildly audacious faith and then, faltering along the way. When that happens, I feel like I've failed and there's no more chance for victory.</p><p>However, something happens between verse 31 and verse 32. </p><i>v. 31 ~ Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” </i><div><i><br /></i><div><i>v. 32 ~ When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped.</i><p>How did Jesus and Peter get back to the boat? Did Jesus carry him? Did they walk back together? I don't really think it matters. </p><p>Peter sank. Jesus reached out immediately.</p><p>And then, they made it back to the boat.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>It's not over if you sink. </i></span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvRvVR_eP2hC9Y-HEi8utCaSYCfV1SmXFxSlRp2KJMpc0RdnpZdmhMsSkbzSCYWpM0vINtmHneD9wSXDa16aFwjaQDiNTTEwU18BLcIwj1iHSGIBSvKrfSPl-DOVXsAO4xaj3KH4_RXUNCIVYzcXDDl2dEJYs1CyQjyEoLLmtou1lAfq2CV2J4XZqDHw/s4032/IMG_0038.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvRvVR_eP2hC9Y-HEi8utCaSYCfV1SmXFxSlRp2KJMpc0RdnpZdmhMsSkbzSCYWpM0vINtmHneD9wSXDa16aFwjaQDiNTTEwU18BLcIwj1iHSGIBSvKrfSPl-DOVXsAO4xaj3KH4_RXUNCIVYzcXDDl2dEJYs1CyQjyEoLLmtou1lAfq2CV2J4XZqDHw/w480-h640/IMG_0038.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p>It isn't. </p><p>God loves it when we step out, practically exercising out faith, boldly listening to His voice, but He never leaves our side through the whole storm. </p><p>Even when we sink. </p><p>Even when we falter.</p><p>Even when we doubt.</p><p><br /></p><p>To you today:</p><p><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;">It's not over if you sink. Jesus will get you back to the boat. </span></i></b></p><p>"It's not over if you sink." I wrote it in my journal and vehemently underlined it. The ladies around me laughed and I did too.</p><p>Getting overwhelmed by the wind, the storm, the chaos, doesn't have to be the end. </p><p>When Jesus calls to you as you're drowning, remember that He never left. He'll get you back to the boat. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CQGwptZgI7fJmxrVRRSMnnGKOvPxmn6xj0IBwqUC20Cf2m1xOcebvng33ZAl34WVO1zCJ0n0ur6Xuhl6tkAjn1B6c_ZYlppoZh5LO9jfT9LVtvc3SB8ioUAXuAEUFYmbpT0VGPQAjCWnHGDqrukGXhQ30kMKxUfYU1Wmsr103GPA6HV4JECBQjX-6zU/s4032/IMG_0018.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CQGwptZgI7fJmxrVRRSMnnGKOvPxmn6xj0IBwqUC20Cf2m1xOcebvng33ZAl34WVO1zCJ0n0ur6Xuhl6tkAjn1B6c_ZYlppoZh5LO9jfT9LVtvc3SB8ioUAXuAEUFYmbpT0VGPQAjCWnHGDqrukGXhQ30kMKxUfYU1Wmsr103GPA6HV4JECBQjX-6zU/w640-h480/IMG_0018.HEIC" width="640" /></a></p><p><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;">It's not over if you sink.</span></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-17431653036791701302023-11-03T06:30:00.001-04:002023-11-03T06:30:00.143-04:00I Always Need Another Zipper Pouch<p>Mamas, </p><p>Sometimes our disorganization just needs a simple solution, a little thought toward fixing the problem.</p><p>Currently I'm spearheading two separate t-shirt and sweatshirt orders, a ticketed four course formal etiquette dinner for my co-op students, and a 4-H fundraiser. </p><p><b><i>There are lots of people handing me money. </i></b></p><p>You think you'll remember who handed you what... until you don't. </p><p>I picked up a cute zipper pouch at the thrift store, threw in sticky notes, and a pen. I even included a sign-up sheet so I can check off people's names as they pay.</p><p><i>Voila!</i></p><p>When someone hands me money or a check, it goes in there and gets labeled immediately. </p><p>I can be a good and faithful steward of what is entrusted to me, without fear of losing someone's payment (or my mind.) </p><p>That's big, y'all.</p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-15653533821688882412023-10-31T22:14:00.000-04:002023-10-31T22:14:28.225-04:00Mama is the Glue<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We're just busy. I plan and I plan. And we're still busy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I remember it being a lot like this when my brothers, sister, and I were this age. We were just very involved in a lot of ministries and activities. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9QISnEMt2noO_I40qxYqU55TGA-aIjJkMojYNwYNgCHYSj37ilgodw7xqYR8umFCKNBJdMzC4EzV8Y9jHNv4E82sm-HhXDCjLIuMYBuCk4BUOihK3EW_3FN_H3isKmC-5bRfxrHzqj1XeeS4fCiQ4_Ww7iqnNYCO0L7_xJoNB2K8y1ShkmF2YcdupaA/s4032/IMG_9986.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9QISnEMt2noO_I40qxYqU55TGA-aIjJkMojYNwYNgCHYSj37ilgodw7xqYR8umFCKNBJdMzC4EzV8Y9jHNv4E82sm-HhXDCjLIuMYBuCk4BUOihK3EW_3FN_H3isKmC-5bRfxrHzqj1XeeS4fCiQ4_Ww7iqnNYCO0L7_xJoNB2K8y1ShkmF2YcdupaA/w640-h480/IMG_9986.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That's a lot like where we're at here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, lunch and supper together are like glue for us. Joking about who knows what, telling rabbit trail stories, and doing impersonations of random people. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just glue.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1i8A3an9Peuh5_U7Hgrfr_BVGt_rfcjRDFpoQckRBkgETVxqK9YCvNMSfVIBbv6BxbcXULoBVidTDv33-A2MiPrp9LujzyIifWCAB22bIc60LxaAOBO8rZ1zHcLs4kpLLpcD8k0dEiNfatRrkjMrgcAPK7dmHpv1g5bB4cl00qqCPoZxUPuyJlDVcaQ/s1024/IMG_0504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1i8A3an9Peuh5_U7Hgrfr_BVGt_rfcjRDFpoQckRBkgETVxqK9YCvNMSfVIBbv6BxbcXULoBVidTDv33-A2MiPrp9LujzyIifWCAB22bIc60LxaAOBO8rZ1zHcLs4kpLLpcD8k0dEiNfatRrkjMrgcAPK7dmHpv1g5bB4cl00qqCPoZxUPuyJlDVcaQ/w640-h480/IMG_0504.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And Sunday afternoons with a football game and some Buffalo chicken dip. We lounge about in crewnecks and leggings, with cookie dough in hand. With feet up and books around and pillows near.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And morning devotions, with Kindles and journals, tea and favorite blankets. We pray, then we linger and plan and figure out how we're doing life together today.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I do my best to guard these times. I try my best to keep them pleasant. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-K9a5u3yXV8gjVxRULjtDkTPZ1E5cxEaVFzYWqRSfJfoGyn64WbPLINwEa4CEOCdXRee6sB6De0GnXC3FdpT6z9QwQ2GKyb3UZ2ZrdLl4nVHp9h1PiLIRHLqOyYhKp6VUjPZ1vis21ALU8Yg8w0G2lpan7dkySCd435CPLqtXV60aLRj5qpinjpk02s/s4032/IMG_9987.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-K9a5u3yXV8gjVxRULjtDkTPZ1E5cxEaVFzYWqRSfJfoGyn64WbPLINwEa4CEOCdXRee6sB6De0GnXC3FdpT6z9QwQ2GKyb3UZ2ZrdLl4nVHp9h1PiLIRHLqOyYhKp6VUjPZ1vis21ALU8Yg8w0G2lpan7dkySCd435CPLqtXV60aLRj5qpinjpk02s/w640-h480/IMG_9987.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes mama is the glue. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes mama is the one that gathers everybody around... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">calling that one Blossom from another room to be present too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfawgX2ZKca2agJ4vFKAe8-0xioaGIWlwxWnHrH5RExEm7n-fAjAc7CQ-imaWK4G672RWF6zL633JhgANB3Hf4aZBCYROVYv8HRRHgwRzaLsKnK5AsFaAcKUuFOuTTIHL-OXAzeLFs2I6LdQR95lamcKi6fnHNY_z5YeaKnLD1ZXLaBHjaejoNaU_pPNw/s4032/IMG_9985.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfawgX2ZKca2agJ4vFKAe8-0xioaGIWlwxWnHrH5RExEm7n-fAjAc7CQ-imaWK4G672RWF6zL633JhgANB3Hf4aZBCYROVYv8HRRHgwRzaLsKnK5AsFaAcKUuFOuTTIHL-OXAzeLFs2I6LdQR95lamcKi6fnHNY_z5YeaKnLD1ZXLaBHjaejoNaU_pPNw/w640-h480/IMG_9985.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes mama's job is to plan supper for the time that is most convenient for the working Blossom. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes mama makes the Blossoms set the table and wait til everything's ready, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">even when it's "just leftovers" and the microwave is getting its workout.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes mama has to make herself stop juggling just one more thing </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and be alert and attentive here and now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdz6XYxdfmvnRxlfVB1E1RS0WsdWtRq7rgTIQmItjPwt0dNgAB0dQ06Z-Ovp7D9DNquijVCg1IVZuiy9JM6b4C7PP35bKlmw8LDPJjvO7XEdGVgM8jYna8kl6sI7WutVb0dUcJ9ohUeI_GG54CMbA5kL1V4ftVx6NFUQMSTX31CtKVHI-DAYH54kGPtZA/s4032/IMG_9984.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdz6XYxdfmvnRxlfVB1E1RS0WsdWtRq7rgTIQmItjPwt0dNgAB0dQ06Z-Ovp7D9DNquijVCg1IVZuiy9JM6b4C7PP35bKlmw8LDPJjvO7XEdGVgM8jYna8kl6sI7WutVb0dUcJ9ohUeI_GG54CMbA5kL1V4ftVx6NFUQMSTX31CtKVHI-DAYH54kGPtZA/w640-h480/IMG_9984.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mama is the glue.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-5203333913669520832023-10-24T10:18:00.005-04:002023-10-24T10:18:41.136-04:00Choosing in the Moment<p style="text-align: center;">We had a lovely weekend of girlies in several different directions.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQ0b6HMKCGkzJ-NR9TkyQrOg0TZyBcBww0MQ0WkkxdXS6zh_AvIJoGggMc3dy796S2zQZedS3zU-PxxyxuS5a_cGixaMOAZUskifIUzfqf_jIPlg421ZWVqleGiPMTyPdrY7qVbN4I3HfEPhFf-mdrYefJ6wOOvAzyk32TaRc_3xBPk0VIoHbCpjjTxg/s4032/IMG_9379.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQ0b6HMKCGkzJ-NR9TkyQrOg0TZyBcBww0MQ0WkkxdXS6zh_AvIJoGggMc3dy796S2zQZedS3zU-PxxyxuS5a_cGixaMOAZUskifIUzfqf_jIPlg421ZWVqleGiPMTyPdrY7qVbN4I3HfEPhFf-mdrYefJ6wOOvAzyk32TaRc_3xBPk0VIoHbCpjjTxg/w480-h640/IMG_9379.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">The Rugged Mountain Man had two of the Blossoms away at the cabin for pheasant hunting. Blossom1 was away at a college group retreat. That left Blossom2 and me holding down the fort at home. We were on chore duty, plus there were college assignments and other obligations to deal with. What a fabulous weekend for all though! We mixed fun with the work! </p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzmnrVuUHZLWLfyckICVJ1s4QWxOE_h6OXPGAj3wiUQzBzv6Fw8g9jeWy8rv9wZ7yWh38FGOF1KA2uI2tPAA5G5N_BILq7244Swg_GSmXEhD5NgiRLA_YttBja732FaZvosgx8rAa9l8Nic3Da08OJYako3uGuzJHyzIrj7vA9yC9OwKWWkzyYuiTpi4/s4032/IMG_9381.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzmnrVuUHZLWLfyckICVJ1s4QWxOE_h6OXPGAj3wiUQzBzv6Fw8g9jeWy8rv9wZ7yWh38FGOF1KA2uI2tPAA5G5N_BILq7244Swg_GSmXEhD5NgiRLA_YttBja732FaZvosgx8rAa9l8Nic3Da08OJYako3uGuzJHyzIrj7vA9yC9OwKWWkzyYuiTpi4/w480-h640/IMG_9381.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">However a plan shakes out, we're striving to sip the joy from it. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Blossom2 and I thoroughly enjoyed our time together, even if it meant I was responsible for feeding a boatload of rabbits. We also tackled a few home organization projects that needed to be done. </p><p style="text-align: center;">It's a constant conscious decision to keep caring for our home and homestead amidst all the other things that we have to do. I'll say this, for how busy we are in this season, it makes me constantly stop and think, </p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>"What is the next most important thing that needs to be done?"</i><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXX2IrSdyPkN3CErHR7BTN4KlURBGAVKmB0hvn9QcazuPck6O30FaVkwC7yMKm2Kv4qVShGOUaNypDKZeLPk38Sxq4gJB6B5KPsq1R9zxEm0l-PXMrxazB-O1IjTeLYdi_CsxG1R_3PtUXqyfTORgQKszx6w3Vnw4rnCcFCKfcI_c80XYB0UaUtwYhII/s4032/IMG_9380.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXX2IrSdyPkN3CErHR7BTN4KlURBGAVKmB0hvn9QcazuPck6O30FaVkwC7yMKm2Kv4qVShGOUaNypDKZeLPk38Sxq4gJB6B5KPsq1R9zxEm0l-PXMrxazB-O1IjTeLYdi_CsxG1R_3PtUXqyfTORgQKszx6w3Vnw4rnCcFCKfcI_c80XYB0UaUtwYhII/w480-h640/IMG_9380.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">That's what I need to keep doing. Choosing the most important rather than the most urgent. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Spiritually.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Relationally.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Educationally.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Organizationally.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Zqt4HhOag_n40KEo3sDViSzKOsEhBRo0G1H6D_8goWPIzh1O8WyvoqWIBJs2Pu8x1UqoHVhHQnO59tE2igsb9VU4fJG8Cv0ZhTsdM8JTDuVjXNW20x3KZlid3CJ9qAEHifGAODI72-Q9_y6hZepzkLSZomcWZ_CnF4ePlgNHvQDxPkjfbpLt8AFXmAw/s4032/IMG_9378.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Zqt4HhOag_n40KEo3sDViSzKOsEhBRo0G1H6D_8goWPIzh1O8WyvoqWIBJs2Pu8x1UqoHVhHQnO59tE2igsb9VU4fJG8Cv0ZhTsdM8JTDuVjXNW20x3KZlid3CJ9qAEHifGAODI72-Q9_y6hZepzkLSZomcWZ_CnF4ePlgNHvQDxPkjfbpLt8AFXmAw/w480-h640/IMG_9378.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">And I'm believing that He is giving me grace and peace to do this moment by moment.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Snapshots from a recent walk through our childhood park with my sister.</i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-91413799820522491182023-10-17T06:30:00.003-04:002023-10-17T06:30:00.146-04:00Handiwork<p style="text-align: center;">I needed a craft for Blossom4 for a Wednesday afternoon.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXHBl2GR0s2l4ol9j6us3rb2nshl56fastSjPNr7Ma__XvVG0JJQHkf39KYwLHDVw73jBJ7b2ZknAYCYNLr5Hthl7pKLc-xFM-c6vnJMofDwKy0YrkrRJ-5-mtPETiGSb7anj-K21EDHvzTgJ_eEnBuUa5aLLjA7MGcL9eNmzIFGykWV7ISONm2eUPCI/s4032/IMG_9349.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXHBl2GR0s2l4ol9j6us3rb2nshl56fastSjPNr7Ma__XvVG0JJQHkf39KYwLHDVw73jBJ7b2ZknAYCYNLr5Hthl7pKLc-xFM-c6vnJMofDwKy0YrkrRJ-5-mtPETiGSb7anj-K21EDHvzTgJ_eEnBuUa5aLLjA7MGcL9eNmzIFGykWV7ISONm2eUPCI/w480-h640/IMG_9349.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A friend pointed me in the direction of a woven wall hanging,</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDIFiRAQMT4lq3eCbCyNl72BlBrVEVZchLCB8oqnt9TwJja3-L6fSZAmCI3k9qHh0iXPGLsi6fJ5P2VvAHy0BCIfziNmzdwlMODUdfOZGZzLU_EHEnrLnVJbjosvnzErgjYpfgCibHd3lGZjblKHHBFY3-PG78_zmb58YIRuH0ZvIPQV-QVlcinhjGrc/s4032/IMG_9350.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDIFiRAQMT4lq3eCbCyNl72BlBrVEVZchLCB8oqnt9TwJja3-L6fSZAmCI3k9qHh0iXPGLsi6fJ5P2VvAHy0BCIfziNmzdwlMODUdfOZGZzLU_EHEnrLnVJbjosvnzErgjYpfgCibHd3lGZjblKHHBFY3-PG78_zmb58YIRuH0ZvIPQV-QVlcinhjGrc/w480-h640/IMG_9350.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">woven on a homemade cardboard loom!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcu55QDKWVa8HVV70B-9XbTRHl5Lu25tmyaepywQVOPy5_PyS01_OGkZCfK9imi0QU1s_j5ZEzMXUWENcg3xaXz8jA6EbeOEYjBiy2jW8gh22TKTwjpoCzvMZqWqARfy2H-bccOCqtKRaRdeB_Sgf7YMXZO99duzm4DtpCVP_nGxStlzKai2rxjIFSM4/s4032/IMG_9347.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcu55QDKWVa8HVV70B-9XbTRHl5Lu25tmyaepywQVOPy5_PyS01_OGkZCfK9imi0QU1s_j5ZEzMXUWENcg3xaXz8jA6EbeOEYjBiy2jW8gh22TKTwjpoCzvMZqWqARfy2H-bccOCqtKRaRdeB_Sgf7YMXZO99duzm4DtpCVP_nGxStlzKai2rxjIFSM4/w480-h640/IMG_9347.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We gathered up some pretty scrap yarn</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFAJ_sBkM3tqfgCSP1lUKfpMc2LtoTdgsEOKDPKBlIu9c6uWLs68-_jLKR0JVYAU7YCrdIMBIk6pARvQwJolkdY0JkrfhNvoIvGbQ6RsklFdnsFBGjoZac35K6HugkzSpUciEiknxnM02_1uGZiHL7AGpjLLgyAAKyTa-kjZwMT5H91Ap_e6H1kaLLUE/s4032/IMG_9356.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFAJ_sBkM3tqfgCSP1lUKfpMc2LtoTdgsEOKDPKBlIu9c6uWLs68-_jLKR0JVYAU7YCrdIMBIk6pARvQwJolkdY0JkrfhNvoIvGbQ6RsklFdnsFBGjoZac35K6HugkzSpUciEiknxnM02_1uGZiHL7AGpjLLgyAAKyTa-kjZwMT5H91Ap_e6H1kaLLUE/w480-h640/IMG_9356.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and Blossom4 was thrilled to pieces with her project.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtMtsRw-S4kEIKB1tRtZxyfqRp5xIPbtFujQAxLy9UzQMkud0o7vn7k338Q1G9FYAb4dlSdyO0eKHDLnj8QQEfoDbwv3Tnnww90SzxBGQcR5mKii_KCy3_KcHbnpPBysC0OL00RtnQkCtahRr81182_xrK-Vh-3DHLbN5x0Ti-6AgixaTwruO3YFcENY/s4032/IMG_9357.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtMtsRw-S4kEIKB1tRtZxyfqRp5xIPbtFujQAxLy9UzQMkud0o7vn7k338Q1G9FYAb4dlSdyO0eKHDLnj8QQEfoDbwv3Tnnww90SzxBGQcR5mKii_KCy3_KcHbnpPBysC0OL00RtnQkCtahRr81182_xrK-Vh-3DHLbN5x0Ti-6AgixaTwruO3YFcENY/w480-h640/IMG_9357.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's already hanging in her bedroom! What an amazing little reminder for Blossom4 on the beauty of sticking with something!</div><br /><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-44505809262108637282023-10-12T20:54:00.003-04:002023-10-12T20:54:25.726-04:00That Weekend & The Best Parts<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We had our busiest weekend since the Fair. It was the kind that everything falls on the same weekend and there's not much you can do about it except for hang on for the ride. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSu31KENXyScbkQy9UxU-S6_Lml-OsbEhuvn6t3ZWAz8hhrdCB2YT3-Vm13BD51ilYIHJKQwqayUEAWPfeX3XcW-vb111vRjRKhK5xc1toj0ML-02PcrY27xg4TUkFTRpIriJqkhjO4lRoJ5u10By3eJu29-KvbsAS07w_pHoR9_rrJ0jcGHN1xpDB0lI/s4032/IMG_9404.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSu31KENXyScbkQy9UxU-S6_Lml-OsbEhuvn6t3ZWAz8hhrdCB2YT3-Vm13BD51ilYIHJKQwqayUEAWPfeX3XcW-vb111vRjRKhK5xc1toj0ML-02PcrY27xg4TUkFTRpIriJqkhjO4lRoJ5u10By3eJu29-KvbsAS07w_pHoR9_rrJ0jcGHN1xpDB0lI/w480-h640/IMG_9404.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blossom4 had her first Junior Bible Quiz match of the season. She finished with Second Place Overall High Scorer, which is quite an honor. She was grinning from one pixie ear to another!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19W2AmkGFdUHow6dXKr1NX9kahZGC8O0fL-rsdAhGl5yWNDuD9vxX-rPa4DL1UvY7xm6X_8lDedYmEo7pCRvTdEErJl-uNdO4t_OjsusfVahsVWetH8gBI_oLKFVTEz4jLVAHQjG6ydxtTSGCbxFBNYt33_GlfnCNxmgbfODalcEZxZqVW9qj6IsxjLc/s3737/IMG_0429.heic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2803" data-original-width="3737" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19W2AmkGFdUHow6dXKr1NX9kahZGC8O0fL-rsdAhGl5yWNDuD9vxX-rPa4DL1UvY7xm6X_8lDedYmEo7pCRvTdEErJl-uNdO4t_OjsusfVahsVWetH8gBI_oLKFVTEz4jLVAHQjG6ydxtTSGCbxFBNYt33_GlfnCNxmgbfODalcEZxZqVW9qj6IsxjLc/w640-h480/IMG_0429.heic" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blossom2 and Blossom3 headed to the cabin with the Rugged Mountain Man for some pheasant hunting. They got a turtle. No pheasants though. The weather really didn't cooperate, but the girls were in full on cabin mode. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Relax. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tramp about the woods. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Breathe deeply. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Snack thoroughly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nap frequently.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Breathe deeply again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Apparently we were at risk of them not coming home for a few days, or so they informed us. Nonetheless, Blossom2 made it home in time for Poultry Judging practice. That's pretty important when you're studying for Nationals.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-F3FbX1dklWsuGSqTI6uNibwRKgMrmkGJuLMDU5ZTKCcI3EqS3gja7ZcdZvVHs3NL1kXShmw9dyqtN7pFTqe6PAbGA7mwihhosVPaG06ua7N_74bPE-5buLJTtqXt_d3ki4z3aJ_Vg8vsdbigkc1t8n-FXbqK7h4xObVXdP2g9fFtQhqmAqikkzVAfw/s4032/IMG_9485.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-F3FbX1dklWsuGSqTI6uNibwRKgMrmkGJuLMDU5ZTKCcI3EqS3gja7ZcdZvVHs3NL1kXShmw9dyqtN7pFTqe6PAbGA7mwihhosVPaG06ua7N_74bPE-5buLJTtqXt_d3ki4z3aJ_Vg8vsdbigkc1t8n-FXbqK7h4xObVXdP2g9fFtQhqmAqikkzVAfw/w640-h480/IMG_9485.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I taught Kids' Church Sunday morning. Although I looked over to see one kiddo licking a chair while we were quietly giving God time to speak to us, we truly had a good time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kids are just so cool!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blossom1 and Blossom2 were at a neighboring church helping a close family friend to lead worship there. You could call it networking. I'd rather call it "pitching in where needed in the Body of Christ."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They drove home, scarfed down some lunch with us and then, we headed out for the long-awaited gem of the evening ~ an Anne Wilson concert!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The girls and I really enjoy her heartfelt music with a rustic flair.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoWHw2rw2mTp-m0zmL7lK8vdJOIl1zJ7qtjdPdOZOa00ZzFAjMFmYfpmtejtE2rYD_6hGoZb0ur7s13-gnTEY2SSPMCHUz4DRyVz0ISD2HsPMm2t2dZWCpwJuSDvhyphenhyphen07iVMuSEtOa7EVCbOowVZz2Cxdn7CIo3cKk8_MbNNgUCGca_fqj1kJRZvF5GQuk/s4032/IMG_9501.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoWHw2rw2mTp-m0zmL7lK8vdJOIl1zJ7qtjdPdOZOa00ZzFAjMFmYfpmtejtE2rYD_6hGoZb0ur7s13-gnTEY2SSPMCHUz4DRyVz0ISD2HsPMm2t2dZWCpwJuSDvhyphenhyphen07iVMuSEtOa7EVCbOowVZz2Cxdn7CIo3cKk8_MbNNgUCGca_fqj1kJRZvF5GQuk/w640-h480/IMG_9501.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We don't need to be told twice to get those boots out! Dressed in our rustic concert best</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkWTcb8f6-9OMAQI6lY6zD3i3JhG9-YsE_DSfRAyfnLGkSzuP-ic6xydUUb4viNysm2SGUXJkWdVcgN1L1fT3-QlWbiW6azOCayrhDmvJ52yWYesY3A2Qrp_5eDJf528RYM-Av7ORuKME07fKkyDaSKLUsJVizpc-Wjt4oXVnvKjiMFlmPXP3ZWKpdCM/s4032/IMG_9454.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkWTcb8f6-9OMAQI6lY6zD3i3JhG9-YsE_DSfRAyfnLGkSzuP-ic6xydUUb4viNysm2SGUXJkWdVcgN1L1fT3-QlWbiW6azOCayrhDmvJ52yWYesY3A2Qrp_5eDJf528RYM-Av7ORuKME07fKkyDaSKLUsJVizpc-Wjt4oXVnvKjiMFlmPXP3ZWKpdCM/w480-h640/IMG_9454.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and well-armed with 500 Cal Chocolate Chip Cookies made especially by Blossom2, we embarked on the 3 hour drive there.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2lErjqr7-LE13uJsDRFgrtrAs3dDuQzzCG3pT8zbbd_H4daL8vfd_DDkJ5tl6WapTQ6MeWOWzJhoKn_a7lVZZsEfqZoBY6clfoyr38egGY8jdzih4EsoIXJgrTYWKwyI2mZwUGyhsMs0IC7E8-pt8TYcej2Tty7OXbLmHge0X-BlHx7x3VOe5cABU8I/s3977/IMG_9434.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2966" data-original-width="3977" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2lErjqr7-LE13uJsDRFgrtrAs3dDuQzzCG3pT8zbbd_H4daL8vfd_DDkJ5tl6WapTQ6MeWOWzJhoKn_a7lVZZsEfqZoBY6clfoyr38egGY8jdzih4EsoIXJgrTYWKwyI2mZwUGyhsMs0IC7E8-pt8TYcej2Tty7OXbLmHge0X-BlHx7x3VOe5cABU8I/w640-h478/IMG_9434.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There may have been some PSLs too! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Road trips are THE best!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQicxgLv2kLkC-hfHbFnqUnYLnxIm4i2vcj0d5xkWXwD06dENq7PRYz10181pbsR-KnXrIIxsZSGAuM1gEjJoQryztJ4SJSOCVdLR-UW0g4JS-oQOt5K0xNeveBEA8Io60TMzzTEp5NMb0AL5vZnzjRhAvpCVNu1UZ_5gIT6Y2skHL22Mkbcun0fcEQDk/s4032/IMG_9345.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQicxgLv2kLkC-hfHbFnqUnYLnxIm4i2vcj0d5xkWXwD06dENq7PRYz10181pbsR-KnXrIIxsZSGAuM1gEjJoQryztJ4SJSOCVdLR-UW0g4JS-oQOt5K0xNeveBEA8Io60TMzzTEp5NMb0AL5vZnzjRhAvpCVNu1UZ_5gIT6Y2skHL22Mkbcun0fcEQDk/w480-h640/IMG_9345.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Especially when there are friends and family involved!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hP2CuFA3rGc6ITzTSO7F8Aqv2oh6Jb4LAJL-DT6wCj2bkkvI0ky9x4YdPvmEg8cSdKBdJX5Jq80TffCYPmARMOs5Lw3Bompgwv7rLmVHaaAtYhXG0vLUzt_vttFSYQzjYKbT7vVzu7jvezuPnOR5c03l7DAdlVwy9qNlOm1tVoLRgv3Ov9hv9E-PnB4/s4032/IMG_9511.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hP2CuFA3rGc6ITzTSO7F8Aqv2oh6Jb4LAJL-DT6wCj2bkkvI0ky9x4YdPvmEg8cSdKBdJX5Jq80TffCYPmARMOs5Lw3Bompgwv7rLmVHaaAtYhXG0vLUzt_vttFSYQzjYKbT7vVzu7jvezuPnOR5c03l7DAdlVwy9qNlOm1tVoLRgv3Ov9hv9E-PnB4/w640-h480/IMG_9511.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We may have arrived home at 1:30 am, but we concluded the weekend with these thoughts,</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM8tu9O-b8TRamJ2hrbqqCG_d2sTyfw8YQvK2NjPgwVEuSOZp8XCFgzr-FeagYMTFWGxiyT9cdDEZIJqbwu1svSCP7Bm_-tnXxmqh-R8NxV_QUxUbSe8zGSkJDietgwq6xFH4ClYqKkNz8mkhenkP-4Brq0M6J4Poxwq-tJyB2pOTnX7uaEE8DYH4tvE/s4032/IMG_9496.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM8tu9O-b8TRamJ2hrbqqCG_d2sTyfw8YQvK2NjPgwVEuSOZp8XCFgzr-FeagYMTFWGxiyT9cdDEZIJqbwu1svSCP7Bm_-tnXxmqh-R8NxV_QUxUbSe8zGSkJDietgwq6xFH4ClYqKkNz8mkhenkP-4Brq0M6J4Poxwq-tJyB2pOTnX7uaEE8DYH4tvE/w480-h640/IMG_9496.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>"It was worth it."</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>"We should do more road trips together."</i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-71529725002476360912023-10-02T15:46:00.000-04:002023-10-02T15:46:03.281-04:00To the Lumber Museum<p style="text-align: center;">It's been a bit different with Blossom1 and Blossom2's college work loads. They just aren't available for some of the extra curricular activities that we used to do altogether. </p><p style="text-align: center;">They are having to carefully choose where their time goes. I'm thankful that they are managing their time well, but I don't want the younger Blossoms to miss out on the things I did with the older Blossoms at this age.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq9gpk6FAWjLOWqaRWLERkez2eXKpTKz9xIlH0fURbujoMEKP6LCdewmXmLb7w-KvvTLEsjeH52xB-Fua5myi2fXN45fPFaHLRSEhKoXYuGg-YMXY2nfw_cWuaYYzCGtOat4yXfXW49Ipu7VMppwzCyHPXQA6yQ8h9Fxv92ju1YR9f1gMufR0VXk-0YM8/s4032/IMG_9074.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq9gpk6FAWjLOWqaRWLERkez2eXKpTKz9xIlH0fURbujoMEKP6LCdewmXmLb7w-KvvTLEsjeH52xB-Fua5myi2fXN45fPFaHLRSEhKoXYuGg-YMXY2nfw_cWuaYYzCGtOat4yXfXW49Ipu7VMppwzCyHPXQA6yQ8h9Fxv92ju1YR9f1gMufR0VXk-0YM8/w480-h640/IMG_9074.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My philosophy is something like my mom's was. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you don't have enough kids to take along, rent some.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(that's a joke)</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnTDBspeGobbqJSPzj1LOnZcvrMEkv4znN22-KZhMKKnOlPWoi5WsavAMkmOFboBtcrzpypo1y9Cobn64eh6ISNhP98zjhvusmYfmI-tmRfbp0zTWwOYq3qPGZ4kTdlUTibWb398niGdL7mck9U5jhmOS25wxlgAVndrg97Ui5MM8iWMK-bC59XwS5j8/s4032/IMG_9083.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnTDBspeGobbqJSPzj1LOnZcvrMEkv4znN22-KZhMKKnOlPWoi5WsavAMkmOFboBtcrzpypo1y9Cobn64eh6ISNhP98zjhvusmYfmI-tmRfbp0zTWwOYq3qPGZ4kTdlUTibWb398niGdL7mck9U5jhmOS25wxlgAVndrg97Ui5MM8iWMK-bC59XwS5j8/w480-h640/IMG_9083.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If there's still space in your minivan, fill it.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyw6cWTzL5W1mwE3jyb5XFoOpMfUmXkchFmPZNVGhvFG4nNLf7gi6iNLCYEB_s3ojLUBnWr0Vxh2FCW7ZB0ewCoXIQM7oOl9isDjra4MtUXHAxPC8Euxa7o6fSm4kRDW4UCxY4LcLveAiapXgXDmAaQR0vwTO3kldrW6Kg1PYrnRk_a_Npjm9KbxrT_Xw/s4032/IMG_9095.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyw6cWTzL5W1mwE3jyb5XFoOpMfUmXkchFmPZNVGhvFG4nNLf7gi6iNLCYEB_s3ojLUBnWr0Vxh2FCW7ZB0ewCoXIQM7oOl9isDjra4MtUXHAxPC8Euxa7o6fSm4kRDW4UCxY4LcLveAiapXgXDmAaQR0vwTO3kldrW6Kg1PYrnRk_a_Npjm9KbxrT_Xw/w640-h480/IMG_9095.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The more, the merrier!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In any case, it's a super fun philosophy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another mom friend of mine and I loaded our minivans and took the younger halves of five different families to a museum detailing the Lumber boom. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJGvgyzCAhRAQnoN9_8s1l-vRmlXZ0oYE7B0q9lCd5CeR0bGnCfGfeIMuuU56LtX69eTwwM9R0_mwLc6mOPBr3hMa7yI_7kRRmLbQxkPUZ0tzOT0_kdCcWkBz1EfQIcLF2ntUvgxZtp894Yiq4NqQg6q4bCwuiN7UGAxl-e8aiw-akYnxX5gFQQj0lp0A/s3121/IMG_9094.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2993" data-original-width="3121" height="614" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJGvgyzCAhRAQnoN9_8s1l-vRmlXZ0oYE7B0q9lCd5CeR0bGnCfGfeIMuuU56LtX69eTwwM9R0_mwLc6mOPBr3hMa7yI_7kRRmLbQxkPUZ0tzOT0_kdCcWkBz1EfQIcLF2ntUvgxZtp894Yiq4NqQg6q4bCwuiN7UGAxl-e8aiw-akYnxX5gFQQj0lp0A/w640-h614/IMG_9094.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a quintessentially autumnal activity!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peak foliage!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pumpkin bread on a random bench!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Intriguing facts and artifacts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcv4gD4rDvZinwiaS4DIkW5TIbpFX-YVhxz6ubk1SOCGCszPE1L6n5P0VVou4HvWU3xG3xaU6V-3pDTgTuX5IVcDj68ikA7dBuybnkStRv2qNF1r8Y22hLs_5jDKOYm_4gKjwr6iY8B6wEuYFJ3t2TthbZpAB-_nakKefXiR7GICVWNshu1AW8SV1ncyc/s4032/IMG_9155.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcv4gD4rDvZinwiaS4DIkW5TIbpFX-YVhxz6ubk1SOCGCszPE1L6n5P0VVou4HvWU3xG3xaU6V-3pDTgTuX5IVcDj68ikA7dBuybnkStRv2qNF1r8Y22hLs_5jDKOYm_4gKjwr6iY8B6wEuYFJ3t2TthbZpAB-_nakKefXiR7GICVWNshu1AW8SV1ncyc/w480-h640/IMG_9155.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hoodies and jeans!</div></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCvQu6fWNiT8eM5AJhcxqym7KQIDswKMIDRjH2lgUAtBlCrnuR3ABo6rBPBxbyb_oXmObyw17Lk8_Rz53IDM6xtE7K2vdqXUVIGNw9-C7fhbbpnqp5gUVrq-kU_9PB9-BS1jNWSvTv3dAok9Ung1rOhTzApF6hGnN8JK12qdaMoBu1pII85SgMtcwNKU/s4032/IMG_9115.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCvQu6fWNiT8eM5AJhcxqym7KQIDswKMIDRjH2lgUAtBlCrnuR3ABo6rBPBxbyb_oXmObyw17Lk8_Rz53IDM6xtE7K2vdqXUVIGNw9-C7fhbbpnqp5gUVrq-kU_9PB9-BS1jNWSvTv3dAok9Ung1rOhTzApF6hGnN8JK12qdaMoBu1pII85SgMtcwNKU/w640-h480/IMG_9115.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Low-lying fog.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VHo0hSgeXvLoZZOI1tWERyEoRZ-0DycQgbVdh5wm7QMuQlQGRTuN02Zo0ZYoda6pscCHZx_eqZ7zyUYVsJmgeKcouRwhGhmkNdjKjLjuV6IaOCWSL94kgcRi9mNYYUpYLlDkQagVWfreNynQmvyKn-9xHIlOhvSHpsI65-TH15bl0XzNdbMHnkCbqW8/s4032/IMG_9140.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VHo0hSgeXvLoZZOI1tWERyEoRZ-0DycQgbVdh5wm7QMuQlQGRTuN02Zo0ZYoda6pscCHZx_eqZ7zyUYVsJmgeKcouRwhGhmkNdjKjLjuV6IaOCWSL94kgcRi9mNYYUpYLlDkQagVWfreNynQmvyKn-9xHIlOhvSHpsI65-TH15bl0XzNdbMHnkCbqW8/w640-h480/IMG_9140.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And gratitude to be outside on a pleasant day.</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vg3gjcapwaqDQQcwJDpH6iK6h710Vhogn5NTiCZxLDQYf8Dh5EbfbLyX0Zmw2uESbE603WiB7uyvUSFSUIvFBVXPyZ6qS4y8CtNLv9LWufu1k_1rh8Vcge0Fi5ZK4r6VYdaj08Sw02X2M693nwXRjs7aIII5LRUJJlwi61EMNG4I8LQYewZzI_oRheM/s4032/IMG_9121.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vg3gjcapwaqDQQcwJDpH6iK6h710Vhogn5NTiCZxLDQYf8Dh5EbfbLyX0Zmw2uESbE603WiB7uyvUSFSUIvFBVXPyZ6qS4y8CtNLv9LWufu1k_1rh8Vcge0Fi5ZK4r6VYdaj08Sw02X2M693nwXRjs7aIII5LRUJJlwi61EMNG4I8LQYewZzI_oRheM/w480-h640/IMG_9121.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wait, I don't think I mentioned delightfully weathered old buildings against a palette of reds, golds, rusts, and aging verdure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The kiddos asked lots of questions and experienced the grounds to the full.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When asked, I believe the camp blacksmith was their favorite of the day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sure, we missed having the older halves of these families around, because they're all such fabulous people! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">However, I truly enjoyed the relaxed time with my mom friend and all these younger ones. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6xY2OhgUqTra5L7jQn61q-eInkjtB7zsENWchX-3AOVj8zX392tA-zvj9XhYSfn93RveUW0mRJAs675xvxEf935rpX9gFJPD9eVor3gES-PwE0VLO_mCCbQG4SHlQoKMyAcryBRqjaXrgMPvEOwTj7RzhtQSCR3TI-gi7c1dREP2AhveRSKizwQOyZk/s4032/IMG_9131.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6xY2OhgUqTra5L7jQn61q-eInkjtB7zsENWchX-3AOVj8zX392tA-zvj9XhYSfn93RveUW0mRJAs675xvxEf935rpX9gFJPD9eVor3gES-PwE0VLO_mCCbQG4SHlQoKMyAcryBRqjaXrgMPvEOwTj7RzhtQSCR3TI-gi7c1dREP2AhveRSKizwQOyZk/w640-h480/IMG_9131.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They are intelligent, vibrant, creative, and truly fun to be around. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We wrapped up the day with a campfire picnic at my friend's camp. The Blossoms and their friends ran around, hung out on the playground, played cornhole, and enjoyed a delicious lunch, complete with a generous helping of fresh air. <i>It was glorious! </i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPeHNAlrkO3MkxkfUJDnUmhHi6D2fTgvWtRAmD8wRScRpGv6W5hgJLQ7qJqKdRNuFhF-zpsBw-b1mHDm9w8Az7crQ6Zsh-C36QfWroVpLgit8RKcfX2a34hpBh6E6sumeLDdtvVYoYdhdClsnzfuSJ772DF4qbA67At2CSp0GIYdHZ7ve8nq2gp7D5v1w/s4032/IMG_9173.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPeHNAlrkO3MkxkfUJDnUmhHi6D2fTgvWtRAmD8wRScRpGv6W5hgJLQ7qJqKdRNuFhF-zpsBw-b1mHDm9w8Az7crQ6Zsh-C36QfWroVpLgit8RKcfX2a34hpBh6E6sumeLDdtvVYoYdhdClsnzfuSJ772DF4qbA67At2CSp0GIYdHZ7ve8nq2gp7D5v1w/w640-h480/IMG_9173.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And the fun word games they played to entertain themselves in the van on the way home entertained even me!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Truly, children (and fellowship) are a blessing.</div>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-52111848726042979492023-09-26T21:29:00.003-04:002023-09-26T21:29:27.225-04:00A Choice for Me<p style="text-align: center;">Mama's busy.</p><p style="text-align: center;">All the time.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CRdZheWsVYYE9GnkadqemvBicf_iHVPQ0dIqFVJohI_Z95GiB5USZ7ic71-RlUE8LVqrNdzfMss8UAJpFzje7djAnfPL4Qng2knt_UKIrvWEjIFSNqswRtd-XQfN4MTUzO1l8DvxZfGiOcpn2WLMNvSaqZls2RyhTEp2eeYQl5u7aCLZrlcTkpE6Efs/s4032/IMG_8280.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CRdZheWsVYYE9GnkadqemvBicf_iHVPQ0dIqFVJohI_Z95GiB5USZ7ic71-RlUE8LVqrNdzfMss8UAJpFzje7djAnfPL4Qng2knt_UKIrvWEjIFSNqswRtd-XQfN4MTUzO1l8DvxZfGiOcpn2WLMNvSaqZls2RyhTEp2eeYQl5u7aCLZrlcTkpE6Efs/w480-h640/IMG_8280.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">There are ways to be attentive, even when I'm busy.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxs-P-BblD3WFvUu6FASDCMjTQ78aknygKZH4dq0GOv1ZAISwJPk8mLgK9sgbgvKynYhLT8uXYMLJxeb6Gl5LKvZF_IZrqhcl7WjWT2E-sueNUYqkK_SjzTShdctC1eiB4TeNBBKyNExNN6oBl4pYcY4bcE0NVDgbYGjJ3T1wWx-e-BCMsELzNzsoYxY/s4032/IMG_8285.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxs-P-BblD3WFvUu6FASDCMjTQ78aknygKZH4dq0GOv1ZAISwJPk8mLgK9sgbgvKynYhLT8uXYMLJxeb6Gl5LKvZF_IZrqhcl7WjWT2E-sueNUYqkK_SjzTShdctC1eiB4TeNBBKyNExNN6oBl4pYcY4bcE0NVDgbYGjJ3T1wWx-e-BCMsELzNzsoYxY/w640-h480/IMG_8285.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Squeeze a hand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Put your phone in your back pocket.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3UF4VBVy7q0vf8aS1Wrr6_X9mXVDxVC-aqz0uS5Z_nbqWtXQq78Vb6pxAiplNTcObtXV9IU3gjIb6FR5WkTSebPyth4ycgqDuRE3pmyhRgM9x0orBeb19ew0x9B51WcXVv1qyCT3mCZwYLratlocOeW5Ik8JtV918lmYOoeS72487y9Th9Z1EIYHKM8U/s4032/IMG_8281.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3UF4VBVy7q0vf8aS1Wrr6_X9mXVDxVC-aqz0uS5Z_nbqWtXQq78Vb6pxAiplNTcObtXV9IU3gjIb6FR5WkTSebPyth4ycgqDuRE3pmyhRgM9x0orBeb19ew0x9B51WcXVv1qyCT3mCZwYLratlocOeW5Ik8JtV918lmYOoeS72487y9Th9Z1EIYHKM8U/w640-h480/IMG_8281.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stop and play a game.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Read a silly poem (or two or three or four.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crack a joke and laugh together.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbMIMAAvQRgfdEsb36gT2dZPaGUkpjgZMbjQyYWuIN0rkUHWN1kfQBuSCBDnCMTI4gKcnGx_kFHP8dPpb_JaI4a6-jTOau-CiGeOze-Z68BE7OhHN196SJJpwemQQfhZLgn6gyXZtLHovSd2PjPREdJg6uqVN6YA5N_tkwHZgb5pLZb2oEFPvAVj9esg/s4032/IMG_8283.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbMIMAAvQRgfdEsb36gT2dZPaGUkpjgZMbjQyYWuIN0rkUHWN1kfQBuSCBDnCMTI4gKcnGx_kFHP8dPpb_JaI4a6-jTOau-CiGeOze-Z68BE7OhHN196SJJpwemQQfhZLgn6gyXZtLHovSd2PjPREdJg6uqVN6YA5N_tkwHZgb5pLZb2oEFPvAVj9esg/w480-h640/IMG_8283.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Share a cup of tea.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ask an interested question.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Listen to a request.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnl6MDnku1er9e-wmhqMlTOy0gRCEPUMWMUnsb1WsiWhWH38zVFBqL4PcaYhvi0t8Z8JVuUWllz9j8KFcHWcnyNwYtCN5rN7rwGOJXSsqZyfhyCAmsTWiwiK9RQMwD9m9WVS3jCo50xMirzVP6y1tnEgvbxtYUsb4x9BskD1Z9srWwAYeZki_Mr05f0M/s4032/IMG_8277.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnl6MDnku1er9e-wmhqMlTOy0gRCEPUMWMUnsb1WsiWhWH38zVFBqL4PcaYhvi0t8Z8JVuUWllz9j8KFcHWcnyNwYtCN5rN7rwGOJXSsqZyfhyCAmsTWiwiK9RQMwD9m9WVS3jCo50xMirzVP6y1tnEgvbxtYUsb4x9BskD1Z9srWwAYeZki_Mr05f0M/w480-h640/IMG_8277.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Every day is made up of so many little choices to be busy with the truly important things</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">instead of the most urgent things.</div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-62541005343929551502023-09-19T10:25:00.000-04:002023-09-19T10:25:44.221-04:00Autumn School<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is how we walk to school.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0E7JjYTQyi5i0KeBWd8TsN5pvjR6YPmDWSTfYtBlmG-DC4MTDMILUORyA5Z3HUSDIw5cxzhvW8ID_g_I7TzMn543oregJz3JmxUdc1dOVCAqRQDjftRnoT0UKV4OsqNeYEn6M0vBzDUUhFx14uNFqLGZOPHxSjkavQr243g9Rrd-tjSKKL2EV3JG4fMg/s4032/IMG_8824.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0E7JjYTQyi5i0KeBWd8TsN5pvjR6YPmDWSTfYtBlmG-DC4MTDMILUORyA5Z3HUSDIw5cxzhvW8ID_g_I7TzMn543oregJz3JmxUdc1dOVCAqRQDjftRnoT0UKV4OsqNeYEn6M0vBzDUUhFx14uNFqLGZOPHxSjkavQr243g9Rrd-tjSKKL2EV3JG4fMg/w480-h640/IMG_8824.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was a beautiful day and by 11:30 am, some Blossoms were struggling with focus, despite their most valiant efforts. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>"Hey girls, why don't we do school down by the creek?</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kxxcf1lZBzwvdrgPlgoD6XQe3GsPR6v5FsRa6jZRYuQmy8kPNVIb6KLcAMhieWsfJv6BAnXvwuf7o3M_EfoPgfZkPeespYmfwfYcQWvpqwm376WcDZHpQSfzh2vMl0JS2fYLU0IIkpH-rif1JmjnYBdzF25tRJP29mbByUaGGrm4SrTKDIHTmGAunFY/s4032/IMG_8825.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kxxcf1lZBzwvdrgPlgoD6XQe3GsPR6v5FsRa6jZRYuQmy8kPNVIb6KLcAMhieWsfJv6BAnXvwuf7o3M_EfoPgfZkPeespYmfwfYcQWvpqwm376WcDZHpQSfzh2vMl0JS2fYLU0IIkpH-rif1JmjnYBdzF25tRJP29mbByUaGGrm4SrTKDIHTmGAunFY/w480-h640/IMG_8825.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hearty cheers ensued!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We loaded up the books and some snacks, and marched down the driveway, breathing the fall-ish air and basking in the sunshine.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fresh air and sunshine are game-changers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There was a little toe-dipping and some serious favorite-creek-spot-inspecting, but the Blossoms settled down contentedly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgShRdTb-Xxi3f-wOb_d_cEA84EdsbvY0md80JfX6n1GpuDXZAcy_FtRAJJVq_OU5WvBcxggweWGCGk7qmdRHAZEDajz-d2kEdjRHVz6W1wAA3zAAMJceCYU7m03WWJUeQU8uQeUyNxxzZsq8H00bqlaIJkLMX_LoL-ZUWIFC9VozQdnIE3PW5UUbIsSU/s4032/IMG_8828.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgShRdTb-Xxi3f-wOb_d_cEA84EdsbvY0md80JfX6n1GpuDXZAcy_FtRAJJVq_OU5WvBcxggweWGCGk7qmdRHAZEDajz-d2kEdjRHVz6W1wAA3zAAMJceCYU7m03WWJUeQU8uQeUyNxxzZsq8H00bqlaIJkLMX_LoL-ZUWIFC9VozQdnIE3PW5UUbIsSU/w480-h640/IMG_8828.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Especially since there were tiny snails to keep us company.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jpRaZsg02SLXHorXVm4FxmN1mfRequ7QiHTncazwQchRY3bOglbWAugREtwelUIbIKDOYYmJZkONKRfCtEzl9FgeB905MKE9iAuOt6OQwFEhGl1N1-4JoP220E1L6w1pdM4dclvZkhqx1Bgx4jWfDjr7Zn07hL6xrVLyGC43s6tHCdInppr2OeryXPw/s4032/IMG_8827.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jpRaZsg02SLXHorXVm4FxmN1mfRequ7QiHTncazwQchRY3bOglbWAugREtwelUIbIKDOYYmJZkONKRfCtEzl9FgeB905MKE9iAuOt6OQwFEhGl1N1-4JoP220E1L6w1pdM4dclvZkhqx1Bgx4jWfDjr7Zn07hL6xrVLyGC43s6tHCdInppr2OeryXPw/w640-h480/IMG_8827.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> Listening to the melody of the gurgling creek while working away at our tasks was a soothing change of pace for all of us, including me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-34425334555934695952023-09-15T06:30:00.001-04:002023-09-15T06:30:00.142-04:00New Mug<p style="text-align: center;">I've been eyeing up this mug at Dollar General for a while now and I finally grabbed it the other day, probably on a random run to pick up a jug of milk. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_gI6kk4Rirs4FrwsBUNy2Ytvk2x6GkDTpE-v9-n8bWIWUTLqwGPKxNyzU1q_rixAVMliJTDzXgtnAPYmdy6elwEnIyE73tZbexpJHhOwZSoxVcA2VGUq5cQUOc_4_FoTHydfuTMoWZmp3enDIEg-GCAT1YKovkNAFsRRderJeum0H4fPW9oxpYNHC_1A/s4032/IMG_8706.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_gI6kk4Rirs4FrwsBUNy2Ytvk2x6GkDTpE-v9-n8bWIWUTLqwGPKxNyzU1q_rixAVMliJTDzXgtnAPYmdy6elwEnIyE73tZbexpJHhOwZSoxVcA2VGUq5cQUOc_4_FoTHydfuTMoWZmp3enDIEg-GCAT1YKovkNAFsRRderJeum0H4fPW9oxpYNHC_1A/w480-h640/IMG_8706.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;">What is done in love is done well.</span></i></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span>Everything I do for Jesus and, correspondingly, for my family, </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span>if it is done in love, is done well.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgze8z-mtIn6OvaUKXiTXZtteNH2yqG0CRM-abczRj0V4MalSu31h4nPE9hG9Xm2rUKSmAX25byENLRKZ1QC4u4A9SUPetM56blL9tGVxgvZeK5L0Qv8p3v-SisiH5kbI7_l_GaICty_FUKhGlIz5BqcGt8ROC05Gk-c4RZq89gci2c0WYevIlla0Fxb8U/s4032/IMG_8627.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgze8z-mtIn6OvaUKXiTXZtteNH2yqG0CRM-abczRj0V4MalSu31h4nPE9hG9Xm2rUKSmAX25byENLRKZ1QC4u4A9SUPetM56blL9tGVxgvZeK5L0Qv8p3v-SisiH5kbI7_l_GaICty_FUKhGlIz5BqcGt8ROC05Gk-c4RZq89gci2c0WYevIlla0Fxb8U/w480-h640/IMG_8627.HEIC" width="480" /></a></span></p><p style="text-align: center;">My day is full of mundane tasks, important emails, tiny details, various conversations, and logistics, logistics, logistics. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Have I done these things in love?</i></p><p style="text-align: center;">My heart is convicted. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Did I do everything today in love? </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRv7xMx98Ti3wSkp4LKjsEh3iBELFnMt0KjzkXDyWVB2gmZtSWNc4IeOjMXIao4zb3iIR2ohjimtyxpsu8Rxv2HhC9nPix6AcSL-iLevl1fzAzvVTuiIWUiBwCksugDaiDXihYN7NFLPkjS3YinOwZMAgPPYwWkR7_D4EYnbm-rhyXBb-L-3QExx2meE/s4032/IMG_8669.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRv7xMx98Ti3wSkp4LKjsEh3iBELFnMt0KjzkXDyWVB2gmZtSWNc4IeOjMXIao4zb3iIR2ohjimtyxpsu8Rxv2HhC9nPix6AcSL-iLevl1fzAzvVTuiIWUiBwCksugDaiDXihYN7NFLPkjS3YinOwZMAgPPYwWkR7_D4EYnbm-rhyXBb-L-3QExx2meE/w480-h640/IMG_8669.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"What is done in love is done well."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Lord, let love drive me today! Let Your love influence every part of what I do.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Amen.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>PS - The Blossoms are terrific barristas! That Caramel Chai Latte was magnificent!</i></span></div><br /><p></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-11589794771075897312023-09-12T06:30:00.001-04:002023-09-12T06:30:00.137-04:00Keep an Eye on the Sun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One thing my parents modeled well for me was the principle of resolving conflict daily. They were and are committed to not allowing conflict to fester into something bigger each day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><i><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">"...Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">for anger gives a foothold to the devil."</span></i></div></i><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">This comes from Ephesians 4:26-27.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We've always paraphrased it to, "Don't let the sun go down on your anger."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Simply put, Mom and Dad raised us and later counselled us </div><div style="text-align: center;">not to close our eyes to sleep <i>until the conflict is resolved. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgveLQEXAROAmZVpIJDIZJC40Al_1GDLtRvlwnF3H37wXE3SQm9VANY5MOaZyg0PFKwp9msOPyKAxrh1JkoXwX2zPWe1Zo7wFdgELanCvEGprICDBWMQWxgxsoKUHm498mM7-rtRooBkKE-jB1_Aas_8QbclfzFwAqZrM-qI_pnX9ijcUHkGg58wLyf2mQ/s4032/IMG_4205.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgveLQEXAROAmZVpIJDIZJC40Al_1GDLtRvlwnF3H37wXE3SQm9VANY5MOaZyg0PFKwp9msOPyKAxrh1JkoXwX2zPWe1Zo7wFdgELanCvEGprICDBWMQWxgxsoKUHm498mM7-rtRooBkKE-jB1_Aas_8QbclfzFwAqZrM-qI_pnX9ijcUHkGg58wLyf2mQ/w640-h480/IMG_4205.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's a principle that the Rugged Mountain Man and I have stayed solidly committed to over the years, not because we're amazing, but because each night, we've chosen to finish the hard or long conversations before we close our eyes to sleep.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It isn't easy. There are so many times, I'd rather just go to bed silent and seething. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hard conversations are HARD.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We're both tired. We feel like we're beating a dead horse.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yet, out of the silence, one of us says, "I need to talk to you because this hurt my feelings," or some other opening phrase. One of us speaks up. It can be really tempting to make some inflammatory comment, but instead, with a deep breath, we try to calmly open the door to conversation. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4TrY8a_bF2THk-xv2h5pfzQVWwrlwD2IJrpUYLHtkI27gG7hZlkl48zQFWbKgsw6XPE8EgYN8SNHUNeOwiFzMQpEKSTqjVHybergXVHboTswE7nhp9Z4Jcl2v-pJHGyOsPwysonWlg37wwx7NipBWZy8RmiaxMM0s4E4Tvg2MsmzK7RvTiFUlNLxHThw/s4032/IMG_2730.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4TrY8a_bF2THk-xv2h5pfzQVWwrlwD2IJrpUYLHtkI27gG7hZlkl48zQFWbKgsw6XPE8EgYN8SNHUNeOwiFzMQpEKSTqjVHybergXVHboTswE7nhp9Z4Jcl2v-pJHGyOsPwysonWlg37wwx7NipBWZy8RmiaxMM0s4E4Tvg2MsmzK7RvTiFUlNLxHThw/w480-h640/IMG_2730.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">When I feel angry and upset, I want to push away. In those moments, I know I need to humble myself and reach out to hold his hand. It's turning over, instead of turning away. It's uncrossing my harshly folded arms and leaning in. I can see the choice I need to make. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's so tempting to push away, but I have found, time and time again, that humility in my body posture goes a long, long way. Reaching out, rather than ignoring demonstrates that <b>we're in this together. </b>It shows a willingness to reconcile. It doesn't matter who reaches out first. I can tell you that I feel the nudging of the Holy Spirit and I KNOW when I'm guilty of being proud or mean. It's funny because often, that small step of reaching out, reaching back, or responding is usually the first baby step toward resolution. As I reach back or reach out, I feel my heart soften. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Because we are two imperfect human beings, the conversation wraps up with apologies. I don't apologize though just because he "finally" gave me the apology I was "owed." </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>I am not the Holy Spirit. </b> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQE3eK1LQDFwlfIrkpnlXrhf5kUxDDbx_MlWE7YgtloUkiXFnd_NtpqEYdVsErVe7zsdGilhThtQqwkCupI8Zr0gUGd-EqaUtW-1nSWZ0EkEaE4GnTanIrItcaLVr_E7YafABdSj_AynIahjhiAOWaC9xAjeNnvYGUIyzS73bOwCY9fuPIH-kx9-gdoM/s4032/IMG_2711.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQE3eK1LQDFwlfIrkpnlXrhf5kUxDDbx_MlWE7YgtloUkiXFnd_NtpqEYdVsErVe7zsdGilhThtQqwkCupI8Zr0gUGd-EqaUtW-1nSWZ0EkEaE4GnTanIrItcaLVr_E7YafABdSj_AynIahjhiAOWaC9xAjeNnvYGUIyzS73bOwCY9fuPIH-kx9-gdoM/w640-h480/IMG_2711.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">As a wife, I know the temptation to hold it over him. <i> </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"You OWE me an apology."</i> <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Maybe he does. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Maybe he doesn't. </div><div style="text-align: center;">That's truly not my job to convince him. I can let him know what's bothering me, </div><div style="text-align: center;">but <b>my responsibility is to have a clear conscience before God.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What does a genuine apology look like?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">"I am sorry for ________________. Will you please forgive me?"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What goes in that blank is what <u>I did,</u> not a passive aggressive accusation.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I don't say sorry because I always FEEL sorry. I say sorry because I now know in my heart that what I did was wrong. I'm humbling myself so we can start fresh. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Over our 21 years of marriage, we've gone to sleep angry once. The heavy burden of the conflict the next day was even harder to deal with. I can't explain the horrible heaviness on our hearts to awake to unresolved conflict between us. We don't want to give the devil a foothold in our marriage and that's exactly what it felt like. It felt like a wedge between us, when there is normally nothing between us. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We agreed to never do that again. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2IobUX0gxashlxSGcjj5hIXPQwEnrNX4oe2ccYZWp4vNKGbWxL-ypr-GWWiM0GQTsS3b8qhtBYKgK_9HqnQG_R132e58NZieWfLNnsGTfG5jwtq_ZiRGXWI-9pqGiq95ngxQEjlpI4iUgH_EPclK7ntb-ZIkwVWmW27uIOfDISjw8Gq4p03SBG_wrKh4/s4032/IMG_7964.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2IobUX0gxashlxSGcjj5hIXPQwEnrNX4oe2ccYZWp4vNKGbWxL-ypr-GWWiM0GQTsS3b8qhtBYKgK_9HqnQG_R132e58NZieWfLNnsGTfG5jwtq_ZiRGXWI-9pqGiq95ngxQEjlpI4iUgH_EPclK7ntb-ZIkwVWmW27uIOfDISjw8Gq4p03SBG_wrKh4/w480-h640/IMG_7964.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In the silence of a finally quiet home, with the Blossoms dropping off to sleep after a busy day, we choose to talk it out... even when we're exhausted.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Please note: I am not advocating to wait til nightfall to discuss things. It simply happens often that this is the time of day and the location where the Rugged Mountain Man and I are most able to discuss things more privately and fully. We choose bedtime as our arbritrary deadline, so to speak.)</span></i></p></div>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-63110133945552112652023-09-08T06:30:00.002-04:002023-09-08T06:30:00.135-04:00Labor Day Moments<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Labor Day often means work here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes that's alright, except we needed a little rest that didn't include more school, more housework, more homestead work, or more garden work. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA_StGfSRJ67g_zaEkxevZGQSqN6K4kHn2fQclSL9vZaewpnmytHARW_EdKwAJSLyjFtjCUasMUDaKNvSa_lN99oaSnYD5XruL8tTciVgWrUqDNTDQnLqnXO-DNWg1eWz5kiC85MicVq3Kh8R5X6b2M7asuQOrYFvr8OWkI9pKt-RhsIUgwxK9qWxSMa4/s4032/IMG_8296.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA_StGfSRJ67g_zaEkxevZGQSqN6K4kHn2fQclSL9vZaewpnmytHARW_EdKwAJSLyjFtjCUasMUDaKNvSa_lN99oaSnYD5XruL8tTciVgWrUqDNTDQnLqnXO-DNWg1eWz5kiC85MicVq3Kh8R5X6b2M7asuQOrYFvr8OWkI9pKt-RhsIUgwxK9qWxSMa4/w480-h640/IMG_8296.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's such a blessing that we live only an hour from our cabin.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's also such a blessing to be able to say,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>"Gals, throw your swimsuit and a sweatshirt in something and grab your sleeping bags;</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>we're going to the cabin!"</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(AND THE CROWD GOES WILD.)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAbgn9kDIu1E6JKiR3XLw3cTNIR-cF9UNkTrvPGRKnu5A6Rt9Mivux2s-QWiH_cF3RL1XZ7WjAj9MZysag7Jk1LodnxBuPa6hfb7xuphJJRJfuptpgOI2QKnIEZU5iOkk9vzGW9GH0sWr4Bz0VfVsR3pQefSQB_JbUWkvGNPv1I0w7Xqcwu6Pa8YHIsY/s4032/IMG_8288.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAbgn9kDIu1E6JKiR3XLw3cTNIR-cF9UNkTrvPGRKnu5A6Rt9Mivux2s-QWiH_cF3RL1XZ7WjAj9MZysag7Jk1LodnxBuPa6hfb7xuphJJRJfuptpgOI2QKnIEZU5iOkk9vzGW9GH0sWr4Bz0VfVsR3pQefSQB_JbUWkvGNPv1I0w7Xqcwu6Pa8YHIsY/w480-h640/IMG_8288.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the cabin, I find myself perching on a log in the middle of the creek and just listening. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Why is it so much easier to hear God's voice here? </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbdTaKT7ACW-w90ghbdo4eO9OIjn9SA-lcXccUmcHBWu2Kjj3axEg1coCeiU_BrjJlYHaiuPtiHRSPGk2uH1nVWa4sgRjHAXiOGymWi0jISeb6tZuCAsnvG8QhFSK22XX2rSLpRi8pOnholsDPCGHDofP-VDIzBcj5VXZKSeC1tJ6S_Iak_Efv4ZMbjWE/s4032/IMG_8282.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbdTaKT7ACW-w90ghbdo4eO9OIjn9SA-lcXccUmcHBWu2Kjj3axEg1coCeiU_BrjJlYHaiuPtiHRSPGk2uH1nVWa4sgRjHAXiOGymWi0jISeb6tZuCAsnvG8QhFSK22XX2rSLpRi8pOnholsDPCGHDofP-VDIzBcj5VXZKSeC1tJ6S_Iak_Efv4ZMbjWE/w480-h640/IMG_8282.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I jaunt about the woods and frolic in the creek with my family.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Together we admire the Pennsylvania splendor ~ a wildness away from the things of man.</div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEija7vc4viuh6iQw3XEhRwdGBACC3EKYwToVpFUnjiscKHZOI6od1Ufx9NeAwXRaWfg0_Bh_0sou-6hmAFaRc8r3F0IG7q0gHhEozDW1HUJctAFjUA5jDTYcQkbdSa_MsZ578S9NdQY-saGAI9KRLPSaZodWfgtgqBGd8I49Pc2FzSqUtkim1BmWyIh90U/s4032/IMG_8270.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEija7vc4viuh6iQw3XEhRwdGBACC3EKYwToVpFUnjiscKHZOI6od1Ufx9NeAwXRaWfg0_Bh_0sou-6hmAFaRc8r3F0IG7q0gHhEozDW1HUJctAFjUA5jDTYcQkbdSa_MsZ578S9NdQY-saGAI9KRLPSaZodWfgtgqBGd8I49Pc2FzSqUtkim1BmWyIh90U/w640-h480/IMG_8270.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I marvel at how He made the goldenrod exquisitely golden.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Its tall shafts across a meadow's foundation gleam delicately now </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and promise more delightful autumn to come. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We spend these</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Moments listening,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Moments watching,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Moments laughing,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Moments refreshing.</div> <p></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-6438935065886912382023-09-05T06:30:00.006-04:002023-09-05T06:30:00.138-04:00And, Here We Go!<p>I've seen a lot of "First Days" in my career as the "Fabulous Facilitator" here. </p><p>For a First Day of school, it went well. I was pleased, but well do I remember how the first week always feels like you'll never do anything more than do school and make supper. I mean, those are my top priorities... but the garden and canning to be done are hulking over me with condemning leers!</p><p>It levels out after about a week. I sure am glad about that, but for a few days, I have to remind myself of that every minute! Focus on the priorities and fill in the minutes with bite size progress!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EtJP_EEv6a2RyFyv6u1xPct9DrRw8zwgPMGeK9lVIowOyPX7FOvVMK9ZLk2fD5Ad3anbyf1-TldLCjmccFQ2e1tvgsVV5lp7EyHY_M7oXGCB2n4R5O0KrlqTGRVuGGuM-BpP9B8QWs8lVI4qML8eZIMZZsBMbeWctVN-uAk_bdB-dN1DQRua1-UJ6is/s4032/IMG_8019.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EtJP_EEv6a2RyFyv6u1xPct9DrRw8zwgPMGeK9lVIowOyPX7FOvVMK9ZLk2fD5Ad3anbyf1-TldLCjmccFQ2e1tvgsVV5lp7EyHY_M7oXGCB2n4R5O0KrlqTGRVuGGuM-BpP9B8QWs8lVI4qML8eZIMZZsBMbeWctVN-uAk_bdB-dN1DQRua1-UJ6is/w640-h480/IMG_8019.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><p>I am already looking forward to some cool things we have in the works this year. Blossom1 will be speaking at a local Lions Club meeting about her reign as Fair Queen. Blossom2 is spear-heading an Instagram account to document all her pastry arts. Blossom3 is heading up harvesting the neighbor's produce. Blossom4 is looking forward to a trip to the Lumber Museum. These things add sparkle to the everyday grind. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTaUFHo101-SJ9R5kkryJLBWme8nqcDNtVGd16Wbb8UWXMnGQ6UpdFRGnt_6QVpm5v4FnFjko4Qgc0kr_WS5dEIpq1eokaz1zwDxE7qLwZGaHI1HDyAUtm-NF37koZg7zLuRFPqn-Z9fde8XEOeES2BOkjCz8kP3AjQTN6_xUa5B6MQVe_1KfoKK8WCE/s4032/IMG_8031.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTaUFHo101-SJ9R5kkryJLBWme8nqcDNtVGd16Wbb8UWXMnGQ6UpdFRGnt_6QVpm5v4FnFjko4Qgc0kr_WS5dEIpq1eokaz1zwDxE7qLwZGaHI1HDyAUtm-NF37koZg7zLuRFPqn-Z9fde8XEOeES2BOkjCz8kP3AjQTN6_xUa5B6MQVe_1KfoKK8WCE/w480-h640/IMG_8031.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><p>I picked up my crocheting again. (I finished this leg-warmer from last year that was alllllllmost done.) </p><p>The Rugged Mountain Man says that crocheting is a winter sport. I'll alter that to say that it is a chill-in-the-wind type of sport, perfect for when this mama needs to be present for bumps along the math road, but not so involved in EVERY minute of the math problem. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnC2ReMEWFOxakKt9TdwdJ2k8vQlgXzKpguqW_L8E84MFuvR1MAA-s--ZmnyrhFL5QczqAL0ALcYeH2oX9C3_QAlpqzp8Lh3OzYWW8V-45O4I1PBC8TCMbHH5CJbvT0J4kYvOJVcHChGu-HqtbfSaoEgCNtONLAEy6ZGwzd__b9iiHcVCPYNHypThSS0Q/s4032/IMG_8030.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnC2ReMEWFOxakKt9TdwdJ2k8vQlgXzKpguqW_L8E84MFuvR1MAA-s--ZmnyrhFL5QczqAL0ALcYeH2oX9C3_QAlpqzp8Lh3OzYWW8V-45O4I1PBC8TCMbHH5CJbvT0J4kYvOJVcHChGu-HqtbfSaoEgCNtONLAEy6ZGwzd__b9iiHcVCPYNHypThSS0Q/w480-h640/IMG_8030.HEIC" width="480" /></a></p><p>Crocheting is calming too. Plus, I feel a little accomplished when we are swimming the upstream of math that feels just a tad rusty for a Little Blossom. She's gaining some promising momentum though!</p><p>As I said, HERE WE GO! May the daily bookwork adventure begin!</p><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4567830907707814011.post-44557660928953856062023-09-01T06:30:00.001-04:002023-09-01T06:30:00.138-04:00Goodies Lately<p style="text-align: center;">Blossom2 made Blossom1's 18th birthday cake. </p><p style="text-align: center;">It was a little bit of an inside joke. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Blossom2 wants to try to new recipes and processes and skills... and</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmeYn69_iBkKldGBOp1znqFBYFAES1mWS4dX39zxhxx5MdmKQRf2bhKdpFwH_NsD-6db0WcQ-lHDrlnpLdljpTlWwD4EncrQT3ld-gAS-5XneqAfP-7SQ02wKr7_y7f1w8W7cX2GAG9fRQNEW4viPpvhIkRm4meQi148a3HxUUgnmzsqygz_zJBpzuz4/s4032/IMG_7190.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmeYn69_iBkKldGBOp1znqFBYFAES1mWS4dX39zxhxx5MdmKQRf2bhKdpFwH_NsD-6db0WcQ-lHDrlnpLdljpTlWwD4EncrQT3ld-gAS-5XneqAfP-7SQ02wKr7_y7f1w8W7cX2GAG9fRQNEW4viPpvhIkRm4meQi148a3HxUUgnmzsqygz_zJBpzuz4/w480-h640/IMG_7190.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Blossom1 only ever wants chocolate chip cookies. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Boring old lady.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmeYn69_iBkKldGBOp1znqFBYFAES1mWS4dX39zxhxx5MdmKQRf2bhKdpFwH_NsD-6db0WcQ-lHDrlnpLdljpTlWwD4EncrQT3ld-gAS-5XneqAfP-7SQ02wKr7_y7f1w8W7cX2GAG9fRQNEW4viPpvhIkRm4meQi148a3HxUUgnmzsqygz_zJBpzuz4/s4032/IMG_7190.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmeYn69_iBkKldGBOp1znqFBYFAES1mWS4dX39zxhxx5MdmKQRf2bhKdpFwH_NsD-6db0WcQ-lHDrlnpLdljpTlWwD4EncrQT3ld-gAS-5XneqAfP-7SQ02wKr7_y7f1w8W7cX2GAG9fRQNEW4viPpvhIkRm4meQi148a3HxUUgnmzsqygz_zJBpzuz4/w480-h640/IMG_7190.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Behold the Ten Layer Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake of a Lifetime!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYcL3EryvFa0dzuY21f556M5iLnKi56KLMWU14b9MS4YfK7gAdmPTXuJZIXrcSryVa1EuF77DeeNxj9tbURYSSiif0zTc-HLgcYs7C2sGYZt_w_FDcJ1SuWlhYEnTSbYWhwYODtDnat85bQiD1y4OT7dcrwXivPnTkI7zcM6bq8gS-G92vKUup5CnGd00/s4032/IMG_7189.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYcL3EryvFa0dzuY21f556M5iLnKi56KLMWU14b9MS4YfK7gAdmPTXuJZIXrcSryVa1EuF77DeeNxj9tbURYSSiif0zTc-HLgcYs7C2sGYZt_w_FDcJ1SuWlhYEnTSbYWhwYODtDnat85bQiD1y4OT7dcrwXivPnTkI7zcM6bq8gS-G92vKUup5CnGd00/w640-h480/IMG_7189.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And epic croissant cinnamon rolls for her birthday breakfast. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Flaky and scrumptious.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7A1ihOVyG5FmkSCPmA00ktB3KHuWebbQsV7YXHOdw_RnF0d9D0AvIVZtH9L_Vgy4jTnt9_q0WfLC2Rq8BEw8waKh1jwWotX6mQvrsO0wwlDakyov24cTjk46Jp3ZGo7YxR64F4Fgx_uEfrzdBJ_1hqa54LDDlOt6jXYJ3ADJOHSGRQ6cI38CdFgIr62s/s4032/IMG_7126.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7A1ihOVyG5FmkSCPmA00ktB3KHuWebbQsV7YXHOdw_RnF0d9D0AvIVZtH9L_Vgy4jTnt9_q0WfLC2Rq8BEw8waKh1jwWotX6mQvrsO0wwlDakyov24cTjk46Jp3ZGo7YxR64F4Fgx_uEfrzdBJ_1hqa54LDDlOt6jXYJ3ADJOHSGRQ6cI38CdFgIr62s/w480-h640/IMG_7126.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Other goodies lately include a chocolate sugar cookie that is my favorite.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKi9uWulvfLha8Dhq1XJsyiw-3QhS7RabWIO6TcaUOQUYRIIs9qchM6Pw33mAOFC-Ol7SnXO5T-1JIk44GrJgjewy9cLorZRF3xHuKsTiK2mmPwwrVCJpFVNY5U-oAjIW7tAu_Vhh1bBiKQF0jtO60PD7Z-r1vW5D97d1OxzMVrAsGy9zB5XLlMmlH8s/s4032/IMG_7847.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKi9uWulvfLha8Dhq1XJsyiw-3QhS7RabWIO6TcaUOQUYRIIs9qchM6Pw33mAOFC-Ol7SnXO5T-1JIk44GrJgjewy9cLorZRF3xHuKsTiK2mmPwwrVCJpFVNY5U-oAjIW7tAu_Vhh1bBiKQF0jtO60PD7Z-r1vW5D97d1OxzMVrAsGy9zB5XLlMmlH8s/w640-h480/IMG_7847.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oh, Blossom2, must you bake every day?!</div><br /><p><br /></p>Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16995031663714157528noreply@blogger.com0