Daybook Style

For today...Monday, December 7, 2009

Outside my window...it's a beautiful day, I haven't seen the weather forecast but I'm hoping for cool temps. For us Floridians that means 70s.
I am thinking...that it's time to start doing Christmas stuff. We've decorated but that's about it. I'm looking forward to reading some Christmas books with the kids, working on our Christmas letter, starting a Christmas puzzle, etc.
From the kitchen...who knows? I am still in a cooking and menu planning slump. Our meals have been thrown together and pretty boring lately. Maybe I'll get my groove on this week now that all of our outside activities have ceased for the next month. Can I get a woohoo???
I am reading..."Riding the Bus With My Sister" by Rachel Somebody (can't remember her last name right now). It's kind of a memoir about Rachel and her sister who is mentally handicapped. Beth, the sister, is obsessed with riding the buses in her city and Rachel spends a year regularly spending days at a time riding the buses with her sister. She talks about her sister's life and the people she meets and about the bus drivers of course. It's been a great book so far, I'm really enjoying it.
With the kids...I am going to start "One Wintry Night" today. I love this book by Ruth Bell Graham. It starts with a little boy getting lost in a snowstorm and ending up at this old woman's house. During his stay she tells the Christmas story starting all the way back with Adam and Eve. I love how it gives the whole Bible overview. I also have Lisa Whelchel's "The ADVENTure of Christmas." It's not really a day by day advent thing but it does have readings that go along with lots of holiday traditions and then activities you can do with your children. We will probably do a lot of the readings and not a lot of the activities. That's better than last year when I bought it and did NOTHING with it.
I am hoping...for a calm, relaxing, but productive week.
In the schoolroom...we are doing science and nothing but science for the next two weeks. We have two books of Science experiments that I've never used and we've bought all the supplies and we are just doing it. I'm not terribly excited but the kids will like it and I can check it off my list of things we need to do!
I am creating...nothing but it's the Christmas season so I keep getting lots of ideas. I put my big ol' Christmas quilt that I made two years ago on my bed and was in awe that I had time to put that thing together. Where did all that time go? I can't imagine having time to do a project like that now.
One of my favorite things...Christmas music! I bought the new David Archuleta Christmas CD and I love it! Some of the songs are a little slow for me but there are plenty that I love!
A few plans for the rest of the week...school, park, I'm hoping to "Blitz it Baby" and get all the presents wrapped and shipped and Christmas cards in the mail on or before Saturday, I think that's enough for one week.
A picture thought...Joe as the baby Elephant Bird that hatched from Horton's egg. He was so cute and every night there was a loud "aaawwww" from the audience when he "hatched."

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook...for today, August 31
Outside my window...it's a sunny morning, sure to be a hot day
I am thinking...that I am so glad that this is the last day of August. I have to say that August is my least favorite month and October is my favorite. September is in the middle...taking me out of my least favorite month and leading me to my favorite so I am happy to turn the page on the calendar.
From the learning rooms...we are starting school today! I am not as ready as I would like but ready enough. I do better after I get started anyway, then I have a clearer idea of what I need to do. Hannah will be finishing Exploring Countries and Cultures--I am thinking we need about 3 weeks to finish before we start Creation to Greeks. Grace and Joe will be doing lots of science experiments and then a unit on birds and a unit on the body. They will also be studying American history. We will be going to Williamsburg in the spring and I want them prepped! More on our curriculum for this year in a blog post all its own...
I am thankful for...facebook and pictures--I didn't have to go to my reunion but could still see some of it in pictures.
From the kitchen...fried rice for dinner, simple meals the rest of the week. I am actually working on a simple two week meal plan that we can repeat every two weeks. The afternoons are going to be busy and so are our days so I want dinner to be planned and simple--little thought or prep.
I am wearing...plaid shorts and a blue shirt
I am reading...my next "Take a Chance Challenge" book--Walking With God by John Eldredge. That's the same guy who wrote "Wild at Heart," a great book for christian men. I'm enjoying it so far. With the kids I am starting our last YWAM biography--Gladys Aylward.
I am hoping...that Joe will cooperate with school today, he's been difficult so far today with chores. I need to start praying now and give him a little extra attention before we start.
I am creating...lesson plans
Around the house...kids are doing chores and the house is mostly clean--woohoo!
One of my favorite things...a new theatre CD--we are listening to "Once on This Island" while we do chores. Yes, I had some chores as well but I'm done. Just Gracie is still working.
A few plans for the rest of the week...school, school, school, theatre, swimming, the beach this weekend.
A picture thought...My good friend, Melissa in the kitchen with me at Hannah's party--she was my dish fairy during the party washing everything as soon as it hit the sink. This was especially helpful because I do not have a dishwasher--so nice to finish the party without a sinkfull! Thank you Melissa!

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...August 24, 2009
Outside my window...it's a sunny day and for once I'm thankful. It was cloudy this morning and I was worried that it was going to rain. I have laundry out on the line and we are planning an afternoon at the splash park. I am going to be brave and leave the house with the laundry still on the line. There is a very good chance that a storm will roll in but I am going to risk it.
I am thinking...that I may bring in the underwear, panties, and bras drying on the picnic table, what if it is a windy storm and my unmentionables end up all over someone's yard. That would be awkward.
From the learning rooms...I can't wait for the mail this week. I have packages coming from about 4 different orders--new schoolbooks and paint and a photobook. Woohoo! I love getting packages. As each item comes I'll be perusing it and adding it to my plans. I also need to get my plan books finished and bound. The kids are having a week of fun in the sun before hitting the books next week.
I am thankful for...a really fun, memorable summer! And now I am thankful for routine!
From the kitchen...tacos tonight, and eating our way through the contents of our fridge and freezer and pantry. We have a lot of food in this house!!
I am wearing...my favorite denim shorts and the same shirt as Melissa. We've had the same shirt since the spring and I think this is the first time we've worn it on the same day.
I am reading...Hannah's Archie comics and a book by Debbie MacComber. I'm thinking I'm not going to finish the book though. It's too predictable and a bit boring. I REALLY need to read, "Teach Your Child to Read With Children's Books." I've needed to read that since about April.
I am hoping...for the energy I had last week to repeat itself.
I am creating...organized paperwork and a plan for the school year
Around the house...it's nice and tidy. Loving the chore charts. I think I have finally found a system that is going to work for us (thanks Marissa!!). I know it hasn't even been a week but it is really going smoothly and the things I'm having the kids do seems to work well for them. It is also motivating me to work while they work so everything is getting done. I love it!
One of my favorite things...a made bed, really.
A few plans for the rest of the week...visiting with friends, swimming, a Pampered Chef party, a scrapbooking night, organizing and planning!
Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...A picture from the last theatre show of the summer. I love these girls!!

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...August 17, 2009
Outside my window...the wind is whipping around through the trees and it's getting dark, I'm hoping for a big ol' thunder boomer
I am thinking...about the to do list that needs to be written--I have homeschooling business, church business, house business, and financial business to attend to....lots on my mind!
From the learning rooms...we have two weeks off while I order some curriculum and do some planning and then we start a new school year!
I am thankful for...home sweet home.
From the kitchen...Hannah and I are making Norwegian Meatballs tonight. She chose "choose dinner" and "help with dinner" from the reading bingo rewards jar so we'll be doing that tonight. Grace will be making peanut butter cookies this week and Joe will be making whoopie pies. That will satisfy their "bake cookies" rewards. We will also be having hamburgers, taco salad with chicken, and I don't remember what else I planned for.
I am wearing...my "hippie" skirt that I got for my birthday and a purple t-shirt.
I am reading...just started "A False Sense of Well Being" today. I don't remember the author but I do know it's her first book. I finished "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" this morning so I'm ready for book club tonight.
I am hoping...to get a lot done these next two weeks and not get overwhelmed!
I am creating...lesson plans
I am praying...for wisdom
Around the house...it seems every room is cluttered and in need of some attention, I'm working on chores for the kids so I hope that soon things will stay a little neater and cleaner.
One of my favorite things...starting off a new school year
A few plans for the rest of the week...decide which sport Grace and Joe will be doing and where, put together my household and homeschool planners, wash all the sheets, order curriculum, enjoy my family, limit the time I waste on the computer and be productive around the house, clean the bathrooms, make those chore charts and put together a cleaning supply basket, ....
Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
The kids and Madison after their free haircuts yesterday. Joe was pretty excited about his. Oh and they also got some free school supplies. Remember how exciting it was to get a fresh, new spiral notebook?

Julie's Personal Daybook

**I am copying Julie's prompts for today's daybook because I like them and because I always use Julie's blog to get the daybook prompts. I may add a few of my own prompts we'll see...
Outside my window...I am in Chicago this week and it's dark outside and nice and cool. I have not idea what the temp is but I know that I am a little bit chilled. They have had a really mild, cool summer. I'm glad we get to share a week of it.
I am thinking...how many hours can I get away with on the computer tonight?? I haven't been near a computer in two almost three days. I have lots of catching up to do!!!
I am thankful...for safe travel and good gas mileage. We left FL with a full tank of gas and have only stopped twice for gas. Our best mpg was 43.5! We made it 582 miles on our second gallon!
From the kitchen...I won't be doing much cooking this week but I do get the pleasure of eating the family's cooking and this family is slap full of good cooks. Tonight we had a wonderful Indian meal over at Tim and Lisa's (Ollie's brother and wife).
From the learning rooms...I think we may go to the Field Museum in Chicago sometime while we're here. Lots of learning will be happening there. We are also learning to get along in a small space for hour upon hour on the road. I learned how to (mostly) control my emotions as we set a tent up in the rain the other night after about 11 hours on the road.
I am reading..."A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith. I almost never read a book more than once and this is the third time I'm reading this one. It's that good. My book club is reading this and I decided to read it again and I'm just loving it all over again. It really is a must read. It's about a little girl, Francie Nolan, growing up in New York during the depression.
I am praying for...continued safety on the road and that I can be nice and pleasant to my family. :0)
I found this quote to ponder..."Just because it comes in your size don't mean you have to wear it!" This is a quote from a teacher I used to work with in reference to some of the awful outfits some of the girls would wear--skin hanging out everywhere!
I am listening to...silence and it's beautiful.
Around the house...it's clean, uncluttered, and nicely decorated (you can tell I am not at home!)
One of my favorite things..."hippie" clothes and tie dye--my SIL took me to a hippie store today and I had a ball! I got three long "hippie" skirts and a great shirt. There was a ton of tie dye in there and some amazingly wonderful purple overalls with butterflies. If only I had had more money to spend! Thankfully the three skirts I bought were marked down to $8 from $36 because of a slight tear in the waistband but I'll be cutting that off anyway to make them the right length for me. They had lots of tie dye hoodies but they were out of my price range. Sad but true.
A few plans for the rest of the week...we are going to a lakehouse in Wisconsin tomorrow and will be there for a couple of days, Field Museum, maybe to a movie, spending lots and lots of time with family, maybe a trip to the Sears Tower.
Trip highlights so far (this is the category I made up)...dinner with my family in GA--southern cookin' so good it'll make you want to slap your momma!, making the best of a very wet situation when we were camping in NW Tennessee--just as we were trying to get the rain fly on the tent the bottom fell out and we got totally soaked and never really did get dry until we left the next morning, camping at its best!, lunch at Lambert's "home of the throwed roll,"--this was the coolest restaurant! They throw rolls, have huge portions, and then come around giving you more food--fried okra, black eyed peas, fried potatoes, sorghum syrup, etc. I have pictures but they'll have to wait, visiting with a friend of Ollie's at the St. Louis zoo for the afternoon, spending the day with the family today catching up and having fun.

A picture... Here's an oldie but goodie. This is from spring break about 4 years ago probably.
Peace out friends!

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...Sunday, July 26

Outside my window...it is dark and a cool night thanks to the rain.

I am thinking...that if I do this daybook tonight maybe I'll be less tempted to waste my morning on the computer. I need to be productive tomorrow since I was so lazy today. I wouldn't trade that 2 hour nap for anything though.

I am thankful...for a restful day and for a husband who seems to have found a new hobby--making dinner!

From the kitchen...tonight we had steak, Alabama white peas (my favorite!!), and a butternut squash dish that Ollie made that was unbelievably good. The rest of the week we will be eating leftovers and simple meals made from whatever we have on hand. No grocery trips this week!

From the learning rooms...Hannah needs to read the books on Japan that I've had out of the library for almost 6 weeks thinking that we were going to do a couple of weeks of My Father's World. We did get the other reading done but that was it. Our last VBS of the summer is this week--Crocodile Dock. I am hoping to organize our school area and do some planning during my mornings this week.

I am creating...an organized school area.

I am wearing...a sundress

I am reading...this is always my favorite prompt--I am in the middle of "Julie and Julia," I have to say that I'm not that into it. It's okay but there is a whole lot of swearing and some other "poop in the brownies." I'm going to finish it because I almost always finish every book that I start even if I'm not crazy about it. On my bedside table I have, "Pretty in Plaid," and "The Time Traveler's Wife," both of which are due in the next couple of days and I can't renew either one so they will have to go back unread but I will definitely check them out again as soon as I get back in town. The "Pretty in Plaid" one is supposed to be funny. I also have, "Survivors, True Stories of Children in the Holocaust." That one caught my eye as I was checking out the other day. Sounds sad but interesting, I am fascinated by that time in history and the atrocities that people allowed to happen. The next three were ones I picked up randomly so that I could put my name in the box but all look like good reads. They are "A False Sense of Well Being" by Jeanne Braselton, "The Godmother" by Carrie Adams, and "One Perfect Day" by Lauraine Snelling. After I finish these I need to start on another book for Take a Chance Challenge.

I am hoping...to feel somewhat organized and ready to go out of town by Friday when we leave.

I am hearing...Grace and Joe's tape--"The Enormous Crocodile"

Around the house...it's pretty picked up, all except for the big mess I've made in the school area.

One of my favorite things...time alone in my house

I am going...on a road trip to Chicago and VA at the end of the week.

A few plans for the rest of the week...kids are going to VBS every day, I'm tutoring, the kids have their end of the year evaluations on Tuesday, hoping to see "Oklahoma", and packing once again.

A picture thought...

We had a great time at Scott's show last week--the highlight of the Thursday afternoon library shows!

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...July 20, 2009

Outside my window...still in GA and it's a cool morning, probably 60 degrees. I love a break from the FL heat! Next Monday we'll be in FL and then the next Monday we'll be in Wisconsin, is this a busy summer or what??

I am thinking...about what great memories we are making with all of this traveling this summer. We have been blessed to spend time with family and friends and there is more to come!

I am thankful...for hot coffee on a cool morning and for McD's Mocha Mondays.

From the kitchen...I won't be back to my kitchen for a few more days so I'm not even thinking about that yet.

I am creating...plans for the upcoming school year, it's right around the corner and will be a welcome return to NORMAL! My dad gave me this big rack thingy with 4 shelves. I can't wait to get it set up, there will be more than enough room for all of our school stuff. Woohoo!!

I am wearing...comfy pjs

I am reading...Julie and Julia, so far it has been an interesting read. It's about a girl who takes on a challenge to make all 524 recipes in "Mastering the Art of French Cooking," by Julia Child. They have made a movie from this book and a memoir of Julia Child. This weekend I read, "The Friendship Test." I liked it well enough but it wasn't spectacular.

I am hoping...for safe travel to SC and then home to FL.

I am hearing...Pop's squeaky chair as he rocks Brayden.

Around the house...we are getting packed up again, my car is jammed full. In addition to everything I brought I am going home with some stuff from the Dekalb Farmer's Market, a comforter set for Hannah, and this big rack thingy.

One of my favorite things...seeing my kids playing happily together like they did this weekend. There was one time when it was just the three of them on the paddleboat and I just loved seeing them working together. Of course I didn't have my camera then.

A few plans for the rest of the week...going to Susan's this afternoon and visiting there all day tomorrow, driving home on Wednesday, unpacking, going to see Scott Humston's show on Thursday, the library every day between Thursday and Tuesday, going to see "Oklahoma," and who knows what else.

A picture thought...

Hannah, Joe, and Sam on the paddleboat.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...July 13, 2009

Outside my window...I'm in GA so the view has changed--I can see my parent's garden and clothesline, lots of trees, and it's a cloudy day.

I am thinking...that I miss my own computer, I was so excited to have a laptop for a lot of reasons but one of them was so that I could use it even when I traveled but I have yet to successfully connect to the internet anywhere except in my own house. I can now add McD's to the list of places I've failed to achieve internet connection. I did figure out that I needed to pay $3 for 2 hours but I didn't have two hours and I'm not wasting $3 when I could use my parent's computer. I could use that $3 to buy all sorts of things like a cup of coffee from Starbucks, a chicken sandwich, a shirt at Wal-mart, three things from the dollar spot at Target,...

I am thankful...for my family here in GA, I love coming "home."

From the kitchen...lima beans in the crock pot, fresh vegetables from the garden, and cornbread!

From the learning rooms...living life, the world is our classroom

I am creating...I've got a big ol' puzzle to do this week, does that count?

I am wearing...plaid shorts and a t-shirt

I am reading..."Every Day Deserves a Chance" by Max Lucado. It's a little disappointing. I usually enjoy his books more. It's still worth reading though and it's fairly short. I think I read half of it yesterday. The night before I left I stayed up until 12:15 am (had to get up at 5:30) finishing a book that I had started at about 9 pm. It was another one of the e-mail ones like "SAHM I Am." This one was "@ Home for the Holidays," by Meredith Efken.

I am hoping...for a blessed week with the family and for me to relax and not get all stressed.

I am hearing...Scooby Dooby Doo on the tv, cable is a special privilege when we come to Grammy and Pop's house.

Around the house...we are getting ready to go to North GA for the day. We are taking a picnic, stopping for fried peach pies, and playing in one of the many creeks.

One of my favorite things...my own computer with my e-mail addresses, bookmarks, etc. Do I sound spoiled or what???

I am going...to North GA here in a little bit and here, there, and everywhere this week.

A few plans for the rest of the week...swimming tomorrow and Thursday, Mexican Fiesta party tomorrow night with the extended family--can't wait to meet my new cousin!, visiting with high school friends on Wednesday (yeah Facebook!), to the lake for the weekend, out to lunch with my aunt and a boy I used to babysit for who is now an adult man. Busy but fun week!! Brace yourself, I see lots of picture posts coming up.

A picture thought...let's see what I can find in my parent's computer...

Here's Gracie three years ago holding a lubber grasshopper. She looks so little!!

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook...for today, July 6, 2009--my birthday!!!
Outside my window...it's cloudy and has been all day but no rain so far, disappointing but cloudy is good too.
I am thinking...about the week ahead, I need to get my ducks in a row--it's a busy week and then I go out of town again on Sunday
I am thankful...for a short wait at the DMV today
From the kitchen...Ollie's making Pad Thai for my birthday dinner tonight and I have some chocolate coconut milk ice cream for dessert, tomorrow we're having Hoppin' John (black-eyed peas with onions and sweet pickles over rice), after that I don't know.
From the learning rooms...at the library on Wednesday there is an art lesson, we are reading, and living life!
I am creating...I'm hemming a couple of skirts and sundresses, it's a pain being short!
I am wearing...plaid shorts and a ratty old t-shirt
I am reading...I'm almost done with "Vision in White," a Nora Roberts book. I still have all the books I mentioned last week on my bedside table plus "Time Traveller's Wife," "Handle With Care," "Meet Julie," (I think that's the title) and another one about the SAHM group.
I am hoping...for lots of time to read even though it's a busy week.
I am hearing...Martha Speaks on the tv and the fan, my ever present friend
Around the house...I haven't done a thing as far as unpacking goes. We packed light so we really only have dirty laundry and a few other things but the bags are all over the living room where we left them last night.
One of my favorite things...coming home after being away, it's so comfortable in my own home
I am going...to pick up our bunnies from Melissa's house where they spent the weekend
A few plans for the rest of the week...library shows, theatre shows, reading, sweating, going to GA on Sunday
A picture thought...
I took this picture the morning after we had gone to Medieval Times. He looked so cute snoozing in his sport coat.
If you want to participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...June 29, 2009
Outside my window...it's sunny and hot but also thundering so there's a storm close by. Welcome to a Central Florida afternoon!
I am thinking...about how unmotivated and disorganized I am and that it's okay because it's summer!
I am thankful...for the relaxed pace of summer, it has taken me weeks to embrace it and not continually feel like I have to be productive.
From the kitchen...I don't have much of a menu plan this week. Just eat what we have since we are going out of town this weekend. I'm trying to eat at least one if not two raw meals a day--salad or green smoothie or fruit and almond butter. Stuff like that.
From the learning rooms...Ollie did 7 science experiments on Saturday and I had Hannah do two weeks worth of reading for My Father's World but other than that not a whole lot. We are going to Medieval Times for dinner tomorrow night so we may do a crash course on knights and other medieval stuff before we go. I'll have to check the bookshelf and see what we've got.
I'm creating...a long list of "books I've read." I totally have the reading bug, in this heat what else is there to do?
I am wearing...a blue sundress that I haven't been able to fit into in two years!
I am reading...I finished my challenge book and it was a challenge to get through. It was "Catskill Eagle," by Robert Parker. It was a good book just not my thing. At the library today I picked up an odd, yet interesting assortment of books. I got "Every Day Deserves a Chance," by Max Lucado. He's a great christian author so hopefully this one won't disappoint. For fiction I got "The Friendship Test," by Elizabeth Noble. I'm not sure what it's really about, all I know is that I liked the cover and I know it's about 4 women who are very different but good friends. The next one is "In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms," by Laura Schelssinger. I'm not sure I'll actually read this one but I liked her book about marriage and I was curious about what she had to say about SAHMs. And finally, just for fun, "The Darwin Awards," by Wendy Northcutt. This is just a bunch of short stories about people who've done really dumb things that usually results in their death. The stories are from the website www.DarwinAwards.com. I hate to think of these poor people's families though who've lost a loved one and now that loved one is being made fun of. I probably shouldn't read it but I'm going to anyway. I'm a rebel like that.
I am hoping...for a big thunderstorm!
I am hearing...only the wind in the trees. Ollie is at work and the kids are at my aunt and uncle's.
Around the house...I was gone all day Saturday and barely got off the couch yesterday and haven't been home today so let's just say it looks lived in and slept in and eaten in.
One of my favorite things...a book, a couch, and a storm
I am going...to Nebraska for a family reunion on Thursday!
A few plans for the rest of the week...getting ready to go to Nebraska, Medieval Times for dinner tomorrow night to celebrate my birthday, spending the afternoon at a friend's house, finding the energy and motivation to clean my house (I'm thinking a tall glass of Thai tea might provide the energy), reading, time with the kids being a "focused mother."
A picture thought...If you want to participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...June 15

Outside my window...it's bright and sunny and warm and it's only 7:45. It's sure to be another blazing hot day here in the Sunshine state.

I am thinking...that I have been doing this daybook for over a year and I think it is my favorite post of the week. I look forward to it every week.

I am thankful for...VBS!! My kids go this week and next--9 blessed mornings!! I love that while they are there they are learning about God and in an atmosphere where people are excited about worship and sharing their faith. We didn't get to go to any last year because of theatre camp so I'm especially excited about this year. I have a to do list a mile long!

From the kitchen...ravioli, squash and zucchini, and salad for dinner tonight, lots of fresh vegetables the rest of the week along with whatever else I can find, I'm not going to the store this week! We need to clean out the freezer and cabinets and fridge. Time for some creativity. I have tons of produce to get through and more coming today. I love having fresh produce but feel such an urgency to use it before it all goes bad which seems to happen all at once.

From the learning rooms...reading and I'd like to do some science experiments with Grace or get Ollie too. We have about 6 kits that need to be dug into and used. Summer is a good time.

I am creating...a photo book for March, April, and May. Free shipping ends on Sunday. I also plan to make a couple more on Artscow, where they are really cheap.

I am wearing...comfy pjs.

I am reading...I finished Healing Stones by Nancy Rue and some other guy this weekend--loved it! Now I'm reading Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker, it's good so far but I may have to take a break and read Riven by Jerry Jenkins. I think it's due at the library soon and I probably cannot renew it. Those are what I want to read but there are quite a few things I need to read and I hope to get started on those--Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends, the books about girls growing up that I bought at convention, How to Teach Your Child to Read With Children's books, and some pamphlets that I downloaded from Renee Ellison.

I am hoping...for a great last three days with Kayla--we've had a great visit so far, to get my priorities straight and make a dent in my HUGE to do list.

I am hearing...fans, fans, fans!

Around the house...to be honest it is not too bad but could use a good scrubbing, time to declutter again!

One of my favorite things...the trash omelet at a local cafe. I think I might have one this morning although I don't think Jordan Rubin (The Maker's Diet) would approve.

I am going...to take my kids to VBS, out to breakfast, and then I hope to keep the going to a minimum this week. There is certainly plenty to do at home!

A few plans for the rest of the week...get my wheat berries grind before Julie goes out of town, start some sprouts, eat healthy (after the trash burrito) with NO cheats--life is slowing down again so there are no excuses, make some skirts for theatre, watch some Tim Hawkins, read a lot, fulfill some Bingo prizes--they've been accumulating while we've had company, learn the Hannah Montana Hoedown Throwdown, have a quiet time every day, declutter, trip to the thrift store, is that a good start?

A picture thought...

Grace at the beach in Key Biscayne.

If you want to participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...June 8, 2009
Outside my window...it's a sunshiny day. I imagine the clouds will roll in later for our daily thunderstorm.
I am thinking...about what a great teen Kayla is. I've really enjoyed having her around. My girls are already asking her to come back next summer.
I am thankful...for a great show weekend! It was crazy busy but went very smoothly and I didn't get all stressed out--amazing!
From the kitchen...I know I have lots of food in the house but I need to come up with a plan. I think we may try a black bean and orange chicken salad tonight. The only thing is that I would have to go to the store. Not sure I feel like going out today at all. I'm making some banana bread this morning. Maybe we can eat that for dinner? Oh, I almost forgot...I'm making a huge amount of fluffernutters (pb and fluff) for our day at Disney tomorrow. So, I guess I have to go to the store. So much for staying in my pjs all day.
From the learning rooms...nothing formal but we all know that just living life is a "learning room" in and of itself.
I am creating...kids who love to read? I hope!
I am wearing...pjs and considering not getting dressed at all today. This is the first day in months that I have nothing that I HAVE to do. We are officially on summer vacation!
I am reading..."Stop Dressing Your Six-Year Old Like a Skank" by Celia Rivenbark. I've read it before but it's worth a reread. That woman is HILARIOUS!!! I have a whole stack of books on my bedside table that I can't wait to get to. Kayla brought a book I'm interested in reading too, "Three Cups of Tea." I might try to read it while she is here.
I am hoping...to get back on track with my diet. I cheated A LOT this weekend. It's hard to eat so strictly when you have a house full of people and are continually on the run.
I am hearing...Bibleman on the tv. This is a great show! Tons of scripture applied to life.
Around the house...it looks like there's been a house full of people continually on the run for a few days. We'll get it in shape eventually.
One of my favorite things...show weekends and hanging out with my family and friends, and running over random food items that we don't know what else to do with. It's too boring to just throw it away.
I am going...to Disney tomorrow!
A few plans for the rest of the week...chillin' today--resting up to go to Disney tomorrow. We plan to do the full day from morning to night--I think the fireworks don't start until almost ten. Can we make it that long? If my feet don't fall off I can do it. We are also going back to the beach, bowling, and playing lots of Phase 10. Kayla likes the game as much as we do. We are also going to a birthday party and I have a book club meeting. Ollie finishes school this week and has a two week vacation before summer school starts. He mentioned a short vacation...nothing like spontaneity. We'll see if that pans out.
A picture thought I'm sharing...
Aunt Clara got to meet Rosie. When we put the bunny on her lap she just laughed and laughed. It was pretty funny. Then she said, "I'd like a fur coat made out of this rabbit." I said, "We're going to pretend that you didn't just say that, Aunt Clara." I think what she meant was, "Wow, this rabbit is soft!"
If you want to participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...May 25, 2009
Outside my window...it's starting to get cloudy, I think we might get some rain this evening. I'm doing this daybook a lot later than I usually do.
I am thinking...about the history of fashion. Grace and Joe and I were working on their "Life in a Tidepool" project that they are presenting at our annual Homeschool Exhibition and Hannah decided that she wanted to have a special project of her own to present. Her original plan was to give a short talk about Norway using her display board--easy since it's already done! But now she has changed her mind and I am trying to be supportive and help her out since she rarely shows initiative in stuff like this. I've put some books on hold at the library and that's as far as we've gotten but my brain is in fashion world and trying to help her think of something doable that she can finish this week.
I am thankful for...the men and women who have willingly gone to war and risked and lost their lives for the sake of our country.
From the kitchen...I made a great salad for lunch--chicken cooked with taco seasoning on a bed of romaine lettuce with black beans and corn and oil and vinegar dressing. It was really good. The girls are making pancakes for dinner. As far as the rest of the week goes...um, my focus is completely on homeschooling this week. Do you think we can skip dinners for the week?
From the learning rooms...we are wrapping up various things this week before we take a 6 week break. I had fully intended to school all summer until I looked at our calendar. So, the decision was made a week ago to put the pedal to the medal and fly through some things. My goals...Grace and Joe to finish their math workbooks, Hannah to plow through another two weeks of My Father's World (China) and two lessons of Wordly Wise, finish our study of invertebrates with Grace and Joe, finish reading the biography of Amy Carmichael, and that's about it I think. Oh yeah and help Hannah with her fashion project.
I'm creating...patch shorts and a patch skirt (see previous blog post)
I am wearing...my new favorite denim shorts and my favorite t-shirt--it's brown with the Trix rabbit on it.
I am reading...In the Beginning by Chaim Potok (it's slow but I'm enjoying it), Teach Your Child to Read Using Children's Books, and Nourishing Traditions. I'm not super into any of the three which is why it is taking me forever. I need a good Jodi Picoult book! Too bad I've read them all.
I am hoping...for continued healing for my arthritis and for wisdom as to what foods I may be allergic to. I'm strongly suspecting but in denial that I may have become allergic to dairy. My hands had been feeling better until I got some raw milk last week and have been drinking it a lot. I'm cutting dairy out again and seeing if my hands start feeling better.
I am hearing...a computer game that Joe is playing.
Around the house...it's so-so. Not as bad as it could be but not as good as it could be either. It looks lived in by a creative, busy family. That's not all bad is it?
One of my favorite things...chocolate--haven't had any for almost a month. I was seriously craving it yesterday!
I am going...to be making Hannah a pair of patch shorts here shortly. She probably will decide she doesn't like them and will never wear them but thankfully she and Grace are the same size and I can always count on Grace to wear whatever.
A few plans for the rest of the week...stay close to home and school like crazy except for tomorrow when we go to the park and to theatre. I'm also hoping to get the house cleaned up pretty well since we have a guest arriving a week from tomorrow.
A picture thought I'm sharing...I love this picture of Grace at a splash park at Citywalk in Orlando! She was soaked and then got to ride all the way home wet.
If you want to participate in the daybook...see Peggy, here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...May 18, 2009
Outside my window...looks like it's going to be my kind of day--overcast and rainy! I love it! We had a big storm last night, the rain gauge showed 2.8 inches of rain.
I am thinking...about getting off the computer and making breakfast, tidying up the house and starting a productive day of school!
I am thankful...for the rain, we need it bad! Also, for a blessed week with friends.
From the kitchen...I'm finally going to make those kale chips today, the kale is washed and dry. I really can't wait! Dinner will be fish and veggies, maybe pasta for the kids. The rest of the week--nothing special--just fish or chicken and assorted vegetables probably. That seems to be the order of the day. I did make an awesome fish curry the other night for Ollie and I and will probably make that again this week. It was ridiculously good. I made it with my new favorite fish--Hoki.
From the learning rooms...I have a lot of school planned for the next two weeks because although we are schooling through the summer, the month of June will be very busy and I'm pretty sure we won't be getting much done. Depending on how the next two weeks go, we may take a summer break after all--at least for 6 weeks. It's either that or fit school in with a two week visit from a teenage friend, and two back to back weeks of VBS, a weekend trip to Nebraska, and a week in GA. All that starts in two weeks.
I am creating...I've left my sewing machine out because I have this great idea for some fun patch shorts for Grace. I'm hoping to get to them later on this evening.
I am wearing...pjs
I am reading...Nourishing Traditions--my new cookbook that I'm thrilled about. It has good, old-fashioned non-processed food recipes as well as recipes for yogurt, kefir, sprouting, etc. Goes along well with my new way of eating. Believe it or not I have been completely unable to get into a fiction book for about two weeks. I read part of The Host by Stephenie Meyer and completely lost interest. This is soooo unlike me but I think I am just too busy right now. Sad.
I am hoping...to see some signs that I am getting better, less pain in my hands for one...
I am hearing...Joe's computer game and rain, glorious, thrilling rain!
Around the house...it's a little messy but not bad. With some help from the mess makers we can have it picked up within 15 minutes.
One of my favorite things...have I mentioned rain? Especially rainy mornings.
I am going...to make my bed, eat breakfast, and get the kiddies moving!
A few plans for the rest of the week...park tomorrow, homeschool convention on Thursday night, Tampa for a wedding on Saturday, dress rehearsal for High School Musical 2, American Idol finale!!! I will be thrilled with whoever wins, I love both of the finalists.
A picture thought...

We had a chicken at the park on Tuesday...yes, a chicken. Two of my fellow homeschoolies are chicken ladies and they were trading a chicken, the kids had great fun playing with the chicken!

If you want to participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...May 11, 2009
Outside my window...it promises to be another HOT day with too much sun and not enough rain and I smell smoke in the air. Wildfire season in FL.
I am thinking...that I want to remember day in and day out what a blessing it is to be a mom. On Facebook every mom is gushing about how happy they are with their children and how great their kids are. Mother's day is a great day of the year for moms. Aside from our birthday, us moms really make every other holiday special for everyone. Mother's Day is when our families make it special for us. It's like a parched ground getting rain, we just soak it up! But, even today when I am no longer being treated like a queen I still want to have the gushing feelings that my kids are wonderful and I am sooo blessed to be a mom!
From the learning rooms...well, last week was a bust so today we start fresh. We are on our summer schedule which is fairly bare bones--Hannah will be doing My Father's World (finishing Saudi Arabia this week) and Math and Wordly Wise. Grace and Joe will do reading, math, and science experiments. I got three great kits half price at a local toy store and I'm really excited about them. They will make doing science experiments really easy, they contain everything we need, even an owl pellet! We have 9 subjects--bones and muscles, the 5 senses, minerals, and I can't think of what else right now. Life is going to be very busy for the next two months but I am going to keep plugging along with school. We won't have full days for a while but we will try to get something done everyday, at least an hour and more when we can. That's the plan...
I am thankful for...a clean house and a fresh week! Friday I will have finished two weeks of The Maker's Diet and on Saturday I get to add more fruits to my diet. I can't wait, thrilled I tell ya, to be able to eat bananas and apples again!
From the kitchen...wow, haven't even thought about that yet. We have a freezer full of fish, chicken, and vegetables, and a fridge full of produce so I'm thinking we will be having lots of healthy meals this week. No casseroles in sight. For myself--more lentils, more salads, more green smoothies, it's fun getting healthy~
I am wearing...pjs
I am reading...The Host by Stephenie Meyer. I am really enjoying a break from reading books about health and diet and arthritis. This book isn't as good as Twilight but I'm still enjoying it.
I am hoping...for three good productive school days this week and for healing from arthritis in my hands.
Around the house...clean, clean, clean (read my Mother's Day post!). And--Ollie is getting a clothesline for me today. Question to those of you who dry your clothes outside--any hint for making the towels soft and not crunchy?
One of my favorite things...reading a good book to my kids.
A few plans for the rest of the week...school and tutoring today, school and park tomorrow, visiting with our friends who moved to VA and are back visiting, maybe going to the beach, girl's night out, baby shower, lots of fun!!!
Here is a picture thought...this is from Friday, we babysat two sweet toddlers and of course they had to meet Chloe and Rosie
If you want to participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for this evening...May 3, 2009
Outside my window...it's dark and muggy. I'm getting a head start on the daybook because I'm hoping to wake up and get an early start in the morning.
I am thinking...that I feel good after three days on The Maker's Diet, I am also gaining confidence that I am not going to starve over the next 40 days.
I am thankful...that I have the freedom to do school how and when I want to and for renewal and refreshment spiritually
From the kitchen...lots of vegetables, dal (Indian lentil dishes) every day since lentils is the only legume I can eat right now. Fish tomorrow night with veggies and maybe pasta for the kids, dinner with friends on Tuesday and I haven't gotten past that.
From the learning rooms...I covered that pretty completely in my last post and I'm now tired of talking about it. :0)
I am creating...(copying Julie on this one) educated kids.
I am wearing...my new favorite denim shorts that I got at Goodwill and a purple tank top
I am reading...How to Eat Away Arthritis, almost done with that and then I start The Host by Stephenie Meyer. I got the large print book at the library and so this book is about 8 inches thick--not exaggerating! I'm reading "Holes" to the kids before we go see the play on Thursday.
I am hoping...for a productive week
I am hearing...the roar of a fan blowing on me, it's hot!
Around the house...the bathrooms are clean and that's about it
One of my favorite things...Monday morning, really.
I am going...to bed in a few minutes
A few plans for the rest of the week...Cinco de Mayo taco party, making a meal for a friend (I guess I will be making something normal for a change) on Wednesday, play on Thursday, maybe the beach on Saturday, school every day!
A picture thought...a green smoothie--spinach, flaxseed, bananas, milk

To participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...April 27, 2009
Outside my window...we're back in sunny Florida! It's a bright, sunny afternoon.
I am thinking...how happy I am to be home, that I'd really like a nap but if I take a nap I won't have time to straighten my hair and we're going to Orlando tonight to see a high school friend of Ollie's and I'd like to look my best...(if I'd get off the computer I think I'd have time to do both but I haven't been on the computer in days and finding it hard to resist reading everybody's blogs and updating my own)
I am thankful...for another safe trip down I-75, for a great weekend with family, for getting to worship with most of my mom's side of the family yesterday as we celebrated a baptism
From the kitchen...??? thankfully we are going out to dinner tonight so I don't even have to think about it.
From the learning rooms...I could just copy what I said last week because aside from Hannah doing her test we got no school done last week. So, this will be the week to wrap up Africa and Night Creatures.
I am creating...not a whole lot!
I am wearing...some new jean shorts from Goodwill and a blue t-shirt
I am reading...My Enemy's Cradle by Sara Hunt--excellent book set in Holland and Germany during WW2. I found out I that Sara Hunt is also Sara Pennypacker who wrote the "Clementine" books for kids. My kids have absolutely loved listening to those. I took a break from health food books for the weekend and it has been nice to read a good story. During my drive I listened to "Daddy's Little Girl" by Mary Higgins Clark and the first third of "Emma's Secret" by Barbara Taylor Bradford. The kids are listening to "Holes" by Louis Sachar in preparation to see the play next week.
I am hoping...to get a nap :0)
I am hearing...Grace and Joe playing Littlest Pet Shop. No fights yet!
Around the house...unpacking and some basic cleaning need to be done, my sunflowers are growing tall--I can't wait until they bloom.
One of my favorite things...a visit to GA
I am going...out to dinner tonight! This is a very rare occurrence around here and I have to say that I'm excited, we are going to Citywalk in Orlando.
A few plans for the rest of the week...hunker down and unpack and get back into the swing of school after a few irregular weeks. We actually have two or three normal weeks ahead of us before our next fun interruption--a visit from the Smith's!
A picture thought...
The Hannahs testing last week. They were troopers and did a great job!
If you want to participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...April 20, 2009

Outside my window...it's a little cloudy, I heard through the grapevine (aka Facebook) that we might be in for some rain today. I really hope so because then I won't have to water my sunflowers.
I am thinking...about all the little things I need to do right after this post--laundry, kitchen, put away 200 rolls of toilet paper from Costco, stuff that never got done yesterday.
I am thankful...for a relaxing, fun, and productive spring break with Ollie.
From the kitchen...I am going to make a yellow lentil dal tonight for dinner and fish to go with it and maybe some flatbread. Not sure about the rest of the week, I've not been very good at planning ahead lately.
From the learning rooms...it's an unusual week around here. We are kind of having our spring break this week (we did school during Ollie's last week). Hannah is doing CAT5 testing at home with another homeschool friend today and tomorrow. We are going to the beach on Wednesday and doing some other fun things on Thursday and Friday. I am hoping to get a little bit done though maybe in the evening. I really want to wrap up the study of Night Creatures with Grace and Joe. The books are due and we are almost done anyway. With Hannah I want to wrap up our study of Africa. I still haven't made African food but that will probably have to wait until next week. She has a lapbook she's been doing so I'd like to finish that. In reality, there's a good chance that none of this will get done and may have to be done next week. A girl can dream though right?
I am creating...healthy living for my family.
I am wearing...comfy jeans and a t-shirt (my favorite outfit!)
I am reading...believe it or not I am not reading any fiction books and haven't for over a week. I'm not letting myself start anything until I've read the book I have about teaching reading with children's books and the other Maker's Diet book. Makes for boring, but necessary reading. I am hoping to start a book set during WW2 later this week.
I am hoping...for rain today, for good health
I am hearing...nothing but my own typing and a few outside noises. It's quiet in here as the girls are working away on their test.
Around the house...we've done a lot of rearranging while Ollie was on break and now there is just some basic cleaning that needs to be done. I need to organize my junk shelf at the table in the living room. It's a big mess.
One of my favorite things...a clean house to start off the week
I am going...to the park, running errands, going to the beach, hither, thither, and yon
A few plans for the rest of the week...I think I already covered that.
A picture thought...

I love when I take the time to make a fruit tray like this to keep in the fridge. It encourages us all to eat more fruit as a snack.
If you want to participate in the Daybook, see Peggy here.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...the eve of April 13, 2009
Outside my window...it's dark but there is a bit of a cool breeze blowing in. It's already pretty warm in FL so a cool breeze is much appreciated.
I am thinking...about the week ahead, my husband is a teacher and on Spring Break but our little homeschool isn't getting a spring break. So, we have to try to somehow at least loosely stick to our routine which will not be easy. I'm very easily distracted.
I am thankful for...a blessed day with friends and family, celebrating Easter. And for my new-to-me-hand-me-down-laptop that I should be getting this week!
From the kitchen...wow, hadn't thought about that yet this week. We still have enough leftovers to get us through tomorrow. Leftover homemade lasagna that Ollie's mom made that was amazingly good.
From the learning rooms...hoping to wrap up Africa in ECC with Hannah. Grace and Joe will be learning about owls for their unit on Night Creatures. Reading lessons, math, language arts, etc. The norm.
I am creating...absolutely nothing!
I am wearing...jeans and my children's ministry t-shirt--my Sunday morning uniform
I am reading...The Maker's Diet and a book about teaching reading using children's book. I have a new fiction book on my nightstand waiting for me. I can't remember the title though.
I am hoping...for healing.
I am hearing...the crickets outside.
Around the house...we did a quick pick up of the FL room tonight, I tried a new method--take everything that doesn't belong in the room and dump it all in the living room floor and have the kids take it where it goes from there. I got the room picked up to my satisfaction a lot faster. Now we can start school in a clean space tomorrow. Hubby is home this week and has a few projects he's taking on. Maybe I should let him teach school for a day.
One of my favorite things...ice cream in a mug with milk poured over it.
I am going...to Target to try to return the flip flops that we just bought earlier this week. All the stars on one side fell off tonight.
A few plans for the rest of the week...out to coffee with a new friend, swimming at one of the Disney hotels, rest, relax, read.
A picture thought I'm sharing...

My aunt and uncle just got back from a cruise and brought the kids back some island fashion.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

A Simple Woman's Daybook for today...April 6, 2009
Outside my window...it is cloudy and the air feels heavy, could it be rain? I haven't watched the weather in days so I truly have no idea but it feels like a good chance for rain.
I am thinking...about how I can do a better job of relaxing and not letting simple things stress me out so much. I am feeling stressed out too often and over dumb things and I think it is affecting my health.
I am thankful...for a good weekend with Ollie's parents who are here from Chicago.
From the kitchen...macaroni and cheese for dinner. It's Grace's birthday and that is her choice. I'll probably add some sort of meat and veggie or I may just make it mac and cheese night. We'll see later. Who knows for the rest of the week. I see a creative meal week coming up.
From the learning rooms...Hannah starts her Africa lapbook, Grace and Joe finally start their unit on Night Creatures and all together we work on a Resurrection Egg lapbook. We'll also be doing other Easter devotionals and activities. We had a really bad, unproductive school week last week so I am hoping to make up for it this week.
I am creating...Resurrection Day cards.
I am wearing...my beloved "Pumpkin Pi" t-shirt that is so worn and stained that it has become sleepwear.
I am reading...just started "Breaking Dawn," the final Twilight book. I read two books this past week though--"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," and "Behind the Bedroom Wall." Both books that took place during or after WW2. I enjoyed them both and would recommend both of them. "Behind the Bedroom Wall," is actually a young adult book.
I am hoping...to have the willpower to stay off of sugar completely, I've been indulging daily and have the pain to show for it. I can do it, I know I can!
I am hearing...the phone ringing, just answered it--it was my mom calling to wish Grace a Happy Birthday.
Around the house...normal messes, this week we are more focused on school than cleaning though so we'll keep things tidy but that's about it. Grace is getting her own garden for her birthday and we are taking her shopping tonight after dinner for some plants so that will be something we'll be working on. We are keeping it small and simple and probably some sort of container. We are thinking flowers, cherry tomatoes, and something for the bunnies.
One of my favorite things...my computer before it crashed...still having some small issues.
I am going...to make chocolate chip pancakes for the birthday girl's breakfast.
A few plans for the rest of the week...birthday party at the park tomorrow, Ollie's parents back Thursday for the weekend, church services, and I don't know what else.
No picture thought today.
If you want to participate in the daybook, see Peggy here.