tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51304336101733110302024-03-05T19:52:25.854-08:00The Homeschooling Journeytriple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.comBlogger107125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-54198629522906882152015-05-25T20:23:00.000-07:002015-05-28T13:18:51.489-07:00IF: Local Leader Gathering<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS6jpUIWMDBWxatBEiXI3m3Pt1p4NCkd17WR-buAruWCmX09ukPybLuV0gMI4cR-lUHizsz0lUNGsq0dpBEqE4Vxp9IZDKuLUYyBPeuWnygM2_f4A0eO96xLEvquXZeSXEKM_43S8UCKAx/s1600/36e09f8f738db8472687710902885f67%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS6jpUIWMDBWxatBEiXI3m3Pt1p4NCkd17WR-buAruWCmX09ukPybLuV0gMI4cR-lUHizsz0lUNGsq0dpBEqE4Vxp9IZDKuLUYyBPeuWnygM2_f4A0eO96xLEvquXZeSXEKM_43S8UCKAx/s400/36e09f8f738db8472687710902885f67%255B1%255D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have an opportunity to attend a ministry leadership event this September in Orlando, Florida called <a href="https://ifgathering.com/gather/iflocal-leader-gathering/"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF:Local Leader Gathering</span></a>, through means of a scholarship (valued at $325). The way they are extending the scholarship to 5 woman is through a voting system. Between May 25th-31st people will have the opportunity to vote. The 5 winners will be announced June 1st. I wanted to share a little more of my story below of what the Lord has been doing in my life these past few months and why I would love to attend this event but wanted to share the link to vote first so you don't miss it! Please take a moment and vote for me, it would mean so much to have the chance to attend. Please click <a href="https://ifgathering.wishpond.com/scholarship/entries/32460284"><span style="color: #38761d;">HERE</span> </a>to vote!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://ifgathering.wishpond.com/scholarship/entries/32460284"><img alt="https://ifgathering.wishpond.com/scholarship/entries/32460284" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAsCRbASQdpmhpu0lcXYmwGyVtudSh3J6ESFJUfwj6obCxcWGnAjtoL25Z8NOU-35g5U_4NM13kdZk3zfUNcMLzh1NnrEYPP7EUw8Ky1fO5fcIY-CDZ0R_NVtPsghMdHCzWtV7a9qfP0e/s320/scholarhsipvote.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Over the past several months the Lord has really been stirring things within and I feel such a calling on my life for ministry. Well let me back up a little. I felt called into ministry the summer before my senior year of high school. I stood up at a summer youth camp when the speaker declared, "If you feel called into full-time ministry I want you to stand to your feet." I was on my feet in 2 seconds flat....I responded so fast, not a second of hesitation. That following summer I went on an incredible missions trip to Papua New Guinea and then off to Bible College in the fall. <br />
<br />
During my time in college I was involved as a youth leader in a local church and spent a year involved in a Saturday evening street ministry in Hollywood. I also interned two summers at KLEOS Children's Community, a ministry that provided homes for children in crisis. Children who had been abused, neglected or orphaned and were in need of loving homes where they could feel safe.<br />
<br />
As a young adult I was full of life, passion, purpose, and boldness. Any chance I had to share the gospel with others, I took. I wasn't afraid to go to the dark streets of Hollywood late at night, interact with troubled teens, or stand before a group of marines and talk about Jesus. Oh the stories I could share!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgArqgmnPx5hoaeAC-1cEmR4MS5nTMGCw_zlDeCgIFHO7n5jm48X5jK-TetLLqPtrtk2OnazNsQ9xfAWEGC_EWE10ztSYryGFApzQirPq1jF1y9UcEArSYv4m7GXK2prunV66n_Evp2fQqz/s1600/4a124d2ff0c90b5be39eaca0f7352745%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgArqgmnPx5hoaeAC-1cEmR4MS5nTMGCw_zlDeCgIFHO7n5jm48X5jK-TetLLqPtrtk2OnazNsQ9xfAWEGC_EWE10ztSYryGFApzQirPq1jF1y9UcEArSYv4m7GXK2prunV66n_Evp2fQqz/s400/4a124d2ff0c90b5be39eaca0f7352745%255B1%255D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Somewhere along the way though I got fearful and put up walls. I wasn't willing to step out in such big ways anymore and just wanted to live my safe & comfortable life. I think a huge factor was the terrorist attack on 9/11. I was on my honeymoon in New York when 9/11 occurred. I was struck by immense fear and just wanted to be back home and feel safe. It was a very scary moment for our country and being so close to it all was alarming. I think another factor was becoming a mom. Having children does something to you. I wasn't as willing to live "life on the edge" because what if something happened to me and then my children were without a mom?<br />
<br />
I continued being involved in ministry...sort of. My husband and I were youth pastors but when babies started coming I really took a back seat to everything. I do believe there are seasons to our lives and when you are a mom of little ones, sometimes we do have to set outside ministries aside to focus on the needs of our family. Those early years of diapers, naps, nursing, and having to do everything for our children is very draining and takes a lot out of you. But looking back on things, and knowing what I know now, I think my children were easy for me to hide behind.<br />
<br />
In the past 6 years of homeschooling I have certainly felt a call to minister to homeschool moms through my blog, monthly mom's nights that I organized, and REFUEL Time where homeschool parents could connect during our Friday School weekly sessions. I loved every one of these things but deep down inside I knew I wasn't living to the full potential of what the Lord had for my life. <br />
<br />
Then in July 2014 my life was turned upside down by my husbands unexpected decision to leave our 13 year marriage. As a result, I entered one of the darkest seasons of my life with immense grieving, brokenness, despair, pain and heartache! I longed with every ounce of my being to save my marriage and I did everything in my ability to bring reconciliation. It was a situation beyond my control and I finally had to lay it all down at the feet of Jesus. I reached a point where I was completely emptied of myself, my fears, my desire to control everything, my worries, anxieties, and negative thinking. It was that place of total emptiness and surrender that the Lord began to fill my life in a powerful way and the desires of my heart began to change. I have grown immensely as a result of painful circumstances. I have learned how desperately I need Jesus. I am absolutely dependent on Him for everything. I have reached a place where my life is completely His and whatever, however, whenever He wants to use my life...Here I am! I want anything and everything the Lord has for my life. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJHcPH0z4ppj8xnu8vseLlD4Hm-PgYWvk6qSDk2-LnIjxZHP4DnRPDXus7OTPspPy3ub3JQroo1wULiQVOyK3FBxtIbLHg1LlAPKMlRscuS6VCMPkxtjAJlUa6SuHsmJMMakl1HScyXaf/s1600/8dbeba1eeceb29b306a05cd325acd84f%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJHcPH0z4ppj8xnu8vseLlD4Hm-PgYWvk6qSDk2-LnIjxZHP4DnRPDXus7OTPspPy3ub3JQroo1wULiQVOyK3FBxtIbLHg1LlAPKMlRscuS6VCMPkxtjAJlUa6SuHsmJMMakl1HScyXaf/s400/8dbeba1eeceb29b306a05cd325acd84f%255B1%255D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #134f5c;">As I was seeking the Lord and asking the question, "What do you have for my life?", I came across the </span><a href="https://ifgathering.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF:Gathering</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c;"> ministry. The very first thing you read on their website is, "<em>We exist to gather, equip and unleash the next generation of women to live out their purpose</em>." The founder, Jennie Allen, shares how one evening while laying in bed with her husband they prayed a simple prayer, "Anything that you have for our lives we want". In the weeks, months, and years that followed the Lord began to take their lives and do something remarkable with it. They were strong Christians, pastors in fact, but realized they were not living to the full potential that God had for them. They were playing it safe and God was asking them to step out of their comfort zone.</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">The name for their ministry, "</span><a href="https://ifgathering.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF:Gathering</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c;">", came out of a question Jennie posed..."<em>IF God is real...then what?</em>" If we truly believe in God, If we have experienced His love, grace, and forgiveness then how should our lives be lived out? What should they look like? Safe, cozy, and comfortable? Or is God calling us to something that might require a little, or a lot, more of our lives? A life that may be very uncomfortable at times? A life of impact! A life of courage and boldness! A life full of meaningful relationships! A life of community! A life of purpose!</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">I feel called to a ministry outside the walls of one specific church. I feel the call of evangelism and reaching out to those who for whatever reason are not involved in a local church as well as those who are attending church regularly. Either way, church goers or not, if we are all real and honest about our lives, we face struggles, pain, heartache, grief, sorrow, or brokenness in one way or another. We all need Jesus!</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">So in seeking answers and praying for direction I feel like the Lord is leading me to get involved as a local leader for </span><a href="https://ifgathering.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF:Gathering</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c;"> and I would absolutely love to have the chance to attend the leaders gathering with 500 other amazing women. It will be a phenomenal time of prayer, worship, and training. I will get to hear some incredible women speak and share their hearts. I will receive tools and resources I can bring back and incorporate in my community.</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">One avenue I can be involved in this ministry is to offer </span><a href="https://ifgathering.com/gather/local/"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF:Local</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c;"> gatherings. Every February they put on an amazing conference, but it would just be impossible to get every single person to the actual event. So they offer live streaming so that local churches across the nation can put on a conference simultaneously in their community. Or a digital video download can be purchased and the conference can be offered anytime throughout the year. So this is something I would love to head up in the future!</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<a href="https://ifgathering.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF:Gathering</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c;"> offers a monthly ministry opportunity called </span><a href="https://ifgathering.com/table/"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF:Table</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c;"> that I have just implemented. Their website explains it this way, "<em>A place to gather women and share a simple meal and dive deep with people over real stories and Christ centered conversations. A time for a whole lot of laughter – and maybe a few tears – but time spent that leaves us with glad hearts. Full hearts. Grateful hearts.</em>" It's inviting 5 women from around the community, friends and acquaintances alike, to spend 2 hours around your table, enjoying a simple meal, and taking turns answering 4 conversation card questions. You can learn more on my Facebook community page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/iftablelongview?fref=ts"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF: Table Longview</span></a> </span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmzaF1OpFjx4IWpSqc1vP-HjiQJ36MTqbniqGTTsqmj1nq8zQZ2-A_PJcru98tDlyGwkhkIDLM0044rSxAIEiBfYxUTHky2rP8pk976EqXOCXL2k6Mi635yrS2VshtSMhPP3ug6MS-YMv/s1600/ccce0076b1e0490273e8ba873220fa29%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmzaF1OpFjx4IWpSqc1vP-HjiQJ36MTqbniqGTTsqmj1nq8zQZ2-A_PJcru98tDlyGwkhkIDLM0044rSxAIEiBfYxUTHky2rP8pk976EqXOCXL2k6Mi635yrS2VshtSMhPP3ug6MS-YMv/s400/ccce0076b1e0490273e8ba873220fa29%255B1%255D.jpg" width="266" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">Jennie Allen, founder of </span><a href="https://ifgathering.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">IF:Gathering</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c;"> also has written several amazing small group </span><a href="http://www.jennieallen.com/studies/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Bible Studies</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c;"> that I would love to incorporate as well. She is offering a free online Bible Study this summer if you would like to check it out: </span><a href="http://links.zondervancorporation.mkt4728.com/ctt?kn=12&ms=NDg2MzE5MjIS1&r=MTQwNjY1NDM4MjcyS0&b=0&j=NjgxNDkyOTcxS0&mt=2&rj=NjgxNDkyOTcwS0&rt=0"><span style="color: #38761d;">Anything Bible Study</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;">.</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">My heart is first and foremost for the lost to discover Jesus in a powerful, life transforming way. My heart is to see women break free from whatever chains are hindering them from living a life of purpose. My heart is to raise up other leaders, women living out their calling. My heart is to see believers break free from religion and Sunday Christianity to a life that is sold-out completely for Jesus. My heart is to live unashamed, to take risk, to step out of my comfort zone, to smile at a stranger, to pray on the spot with anyone who needs it, to go beyond the cordial/surface relationships and be real, raw, and transparent. My heart is to share my story of all God has done in my life. Because "IF God is real...then what?", well then lets make this life count for eternity! </span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">Are you with me? Lets do it!</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbQ79_Fbd8a_n8R3CujNb5t3Zf7gDV32l22ZMJzAuJVSc0jKys98L62RGbWmUBeQe8fo5AJZ3W6YUILFgb6Jq9pfsqqXK6UGuKxZ_Rj0RZ56V40H_762PvQs5Oi8DlfQff6ZfNf0PrQ4n/s1600/8c16d53d786c8ef002ae027a2b9fb4e5%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbQ79_Fbd8a_n8R3CujNb5t3Zf7gDV32l22ZMJzAuJVSc0jKys98L62RGbWmUBeQe8fo5AJZ3W6YUILFgb6Jq9pfsqqXK6UGuKxZ_Rj0RZ56V40H_762PvQs5Oi8DlfQff6ZfNf0PrQ4n/s400/8c16d53d786c8ef002ae027a2b9fb4e5%255B1%255D.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">"<em>Jesus I pray for those who have found themselves here reading this blog post who are in that place of longing for more, who feel that tug on their heart and a stirring deep within. Direct their steps and open whatever doors you have for their life. I pray they would choose to trust you like never before and begin to step out of the cozy, safe, comfortable life they have been living into the unknown, the unexpected, and the unfamiliar. Give them courage and boldness for the life they are about to embark on. They may be in for a wild ride but you will be with them every step of the way. In Jesus mighty name I pray. Amen</em>"</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">#anythingproject</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-34585492128090448262015-03-29T10:51:00.003-07:002015-04-03T10:42:17.384-07:002015/2016 Homeschool Curriculum<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OxwWVZWfmcd_ivfmrgsytS5oq6VmE8bKbObfokKu1e8-D1iboIxCzhI8JBqiCd5YpuZGw5h3QnG7LU7d3TvwUoymWzY12WROSgurHXDdlhJY7P4C44UMQwEaQRM53J3RYC_APL9yWVOv/s1600/IMG_1140%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OxwWVZWfmcd_ivfmrgsytS5oq6VmE8bKbObfokKu1e8-D1iboIxCzhI8JBqiCd5YpuZGw5h3QnG7LU7d3TvwUoymWzY12WROSgurHXDdlhJY7P4C44UMQwEaQRM53J3RYC_APL9yWVOv/s1600/IMG_1140%5B1%5D.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of my curriculum - white box holds all the Apologia Science experiments!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I wanted to share my plans for curriculum for the 2015/2016 school year. This is definitely earlier than normal for me to be deciding on curriculum for the following school year but there is reason for that. I had applied for a homeschool scholarship through <a href="http://www.homeschoolfoundation.org/"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Homeschool Foundation</span></a> (children of single parents fund) and had to provide costs per child. I found out on my birthday that my application was reviewed and accepted and received my check a few weeks later. A huge thank you to <a href="http://www.homeschoolfoundation.org/"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Homeschool Foundation</span></a>!!!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXg0fbPyd8loWt3AInRtl5xtskHR1xTNWz4tBfzPgNK20GNAYQKWd-1n61cZW32T6vLOYF-lY8_i6kSyxGKeVSzbecKH3QCKsHuvhrpvCjlW6YM0327dATljuSdc2qWp7ijlWjpefahj6U/s1600/IMG_1142%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXg0fbPyd8loWt3AInRtl5xtskHR1xTNWz4tBfzPgNK20GNAYQKWd-1n61cZW32T6vLOYF-lY8_i6kSyxGKeVSzbecKH3QCKsHuvhrpvCjlW6YM0327dATljuSdc2qWp7ijlWjpefahj6U/s1600/IMG_1142%5B1%5D.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.discipleland.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">DiscipleLand</span></a> Bible study materials</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I chose to purchase majority of my curriculum through <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Rainbow Resource</span> </a>as they had equal or better prices then other sites. I am using a few FREE resources and will be borrowing several items from other homeschool families. It is possible to homeschool on a budget by seeking out websites with the best pricing, finding free resources, borrowing from a friend, or buying used through <a href="http://homeschoolclassifieds.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Homeschool Classifieds</span></a>. I also want to expand and share on some of the curriculum I have chosen and will do so at the bottom of the page. <br />
<br />
<strong><u>"Mooky" - 6th Grade:</u></strong><br />
<br />
Math - <a href="http://teachingtextbooks.com/v/vspfiles/tt/Math6.htm"><span style="color: #38761d;">Teaching Textbooks 6</span></a> (borrowing)<br />
Writing - <a href="http://www.iew.com/shop/products/teaching-writingstudent-writing-value-package-level"><span style="color: #38761d;">Institute for Excellence in Writing Level A</span></a> (borrowing except purchased Student Writing Materials)<br />
Grammar- <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/018593"><span style="color: #38761d;">Fix It! Grammar: The Nose Tree (book 1)</span></a> w/<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/018481"><span style="color: #38761d;">teacher's manual</span></a><br />
Reading: Various chapter books (Cooper Kids, Red Rock Mysteries, The Lily series)<br />
History - <a href="http://www.ywampublishing.com/c-70-christian-heroes-then-now.aspx"><span style="color: #38761d;">YWAM Christian Heroes: Then & Now</span></a><br />
Science - <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/055719"><span style="color: #38761d;">Apologia Exploring Creation with Chemistry & Physics</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;"> - </span>with <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=055720"><span style="color: #38761d;">notebooking journal</span></a> and <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/016153"><span style="color: #38761d;">science kit</span></a> (borrowing text book)<br />
Art - <a href="http://www.artforkidshub.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Art for Kids Hub</span></a> (free online resource), <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/035384"><span style="color: #38761d;">How to draw</span></a> books<br />
Bible/Character Study - <a href="http://www.pro2ge.com/store/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Pro2ge Summit: God's Greatness </span></a><br />
Devotional: <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/048866"><span style="color: #38761d;">For Girls Only! Devotional</span></a><br />
Music - Piano lessons<br />
Friday School Co-op Classes<br />
<br />
<strong><u>"Lover Girl" - 4th Grade:</u></strong><br />
<br />
Math - <a href="http://www.mathlessonsforalivingeducation.com/book-5/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Math Lessons for A Living Education book 5</span></a> (free download!)<br />
Grammar - <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/018593"><span style="color: #38761d;">Fix It! Grammar: The Nose Tree (book 1)</span></a> w/<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/018481"><span style="color: #38761d;">teacher's manual</span></a><br />
Reading: Various chapter books (Magic tree house, Circle C Ranch, Janette Oke's Animal Friends)<br />
History - <a href="http://www.ywampublishing.com/c-70-christian-heroes-then-now.aspx"><span style="color: #38761d;">YWAM Christian Heroes: Then & Now</span></a><br />
Science - <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/055719"><span style="color: #38761d;">Apologia Exploring Creation with Chemistry & Physics</span></a> (with <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=055721"><span style="color: #38761d;">junior notebooking journal</span></a> & <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/016153"><span style="color: #38761d;">science kit</span></a>)<br />
Art- <a href="http://www.artforkidshub.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Art for Kids Hub</span></a> (free online resource), <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/035380"><span style="color: #38761d;">How to draw</span></a> books.<br />
Bible/Character Study- <a href="http://www.pro2ge.com/store/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Pro2ge Summit: God's Greatness</span></a> <br />
Music-Violin lessons<br />
Friday School Co-op Classes<br />
<br />
<strong><u>"Sweet Pea" - Kindergarten:</u></strong><br />
<br />
Math - <a href="http://www.mathlessonsforalivingeducation.com/book-1/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Math Lessons for A Living Education Book 1</span> </a>(free download)<br />
Reading - <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/012264"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Reading Lesson Book</span></a><br />
Language Arts - <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/043889"><span style="color: #38761d;">Language Lessons for Little Ones Volume 1</span></a><br />
Skills - <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/034385"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kumon Pasting</span></a> and <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/000219"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kumon Mazes</span></a><br />
Art - <a href="http://www.artforkidshub.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Art for Kids Hub</span></a> (free online resource), <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/028658"><span style="color: #38761d;">How to draw</span></a> books<br />
Bible - <a href="http://www.discipleland.com/Kindergarten/Kindergarten-Products"><span style="color: #38761d;">DiscipleLand Amazing Old & New Testament Heroes</span></a> (disciple guides only-2 Old Testament & 2 New Testament) and <a href="http://www.discipleland.com/Kindergarten/My-Awesome-God-Bible-Storybook_2"><span style="color: #38761d;">My Awesome God Storybook Bible</span></a><br />
Friday School Co-op Classes<br />
<br />
<strong><u>IEW</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.iew.com/shop/products/teaching-writingstudent-writing-value-package-level"><img alt="http://www.iew.com/shop/products/teaching-writingstudent-writing-value-package-level" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL64BciLZGUAwTRvdU5FIa6w-l-3QsO3c1O1zrwgOyezgHszr6uKJj_xbkWlsA230kffmYeWuN4crEHzkhgNfp_CO5th2Bxnw_IevIo9RR2xOkhrgzEKVTMX2k2E2-tnTLOZDBjC3oI4Uj/s1600/twsid-a_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I have been hearing about <a href="http://www.iew.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)</span></a> for several years now. But the steep price and what I felt was a confusing website always turned me away. I finally took the time to really do my research and get a better grasp on the curriculum and I am very excited to be giving it a try. Thankfully I am able to borrow the Teacher & Student DVD's from a friend but probably would have figured out a way to purchase if that was my only option. <br />
<br />
The idea behind it is compared to a student learning music for the first time. You wouldn't ask a beginner in music to compose/write their own music. Instead you put the best of music in front of them for them to learn from. So that idea is put into place with IEW. Instead of a child having to come up with writing out of thin air they are provided with good writing models. Every few weeks they watch the video presentation teaching any new concepts and then take 1-2 weeks to work through everything. <br />
<br />
They are given a small paragraph and have to go sentence by sentence and pick out 3 key words from that sentence and write down those words. They do this for the entire paragraph. Then the paragraph is taken away and they just have their key word outline. From that outline they have to rewrite each sentence (so it's important they pick the key words that will help them remember the sentence). It's not about trying to remember the original sentence but rather taking the words and writing the sentence in your own words. There are banned words like "said" where they have to use different words - "exclaimed", "cried", "shouted" etc... They also learn about "which" clauses where they can combine 2 sentences into 1 with the word "which". They are taught "dress up" words to enhance the sentences. So that is the basic overview. <br />
<br />
There are 9 levels of skill learned if you did IEW up through the higher grade levels. There are Level A, B, and C. But you don't go through Level A, then Level B, and then Level C. Each level is essentially the same as far as teaching basic writing it's just for different age/grade levels therefore Level C would be more advanced than level A. So for example, you would go through Level A (if your kids are 3rd-5th grade) in a year and then do the "Level A continuation" which could last 1-2 years depending on how fast or slow you work through it. Then you would follow this with themed writing/high school writing courses. There is a Teaching Writing: Structure and Style DVD and this is an instructional video for parents to help prepare the parent to teach writing to the child as well as the student DVD's.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Fix It! Grammar</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="http://www.rainbowresource.com/viewpict.php?pid=018593" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJjqVw-yJ4BBLu7nxz3zfuWxuQl6JSG29DvgecLNkcNz2X7eDKaISI9diKm7HviZrz0rPmbKFo6ryiK3jx06Q2a-lkAwSmCdTpMkPCtxHDQUnyan8F0KlRvn9a1Hrdn6IE3k984iCZxqE/s1600/018593%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" title="" width="247" /></div>
<br />
<br />
"<a href="http://www.iew.com/search/site/fix%20it%20grammar?f[0]=im_field_category%3A17"><span style="color: #38761d;">Fix It! Grammar</span></a>" is also by IEW. There are 6 books and they recommend you start with book 1 no matter your grade level if you don't already have a lot of grammar practice. Each book is a different story used, so book 1 is "The Nose Tree". It's the entire story spread out over a years worth of work. So each week you are given 4 sentences of the story that you have to edit and rewrite. By the end of the school year the child will have written out the entire story. Each week adds in new grammar & punctuation concepts. It only should take 10-15 minutes each day to edit and rewrite one sentence. There is a box at the top of the page that is like a check off list of things they need to address that week in the sentences (paragraph indent, capitalization, spelling, homophones, etc...). Once they make all the necessary corrections they rewrite it the right way in a notebook. <br />
<br />
<strong><u>Art for Kids Hub</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://artforkidshub.com/"><img alt="http://artforkidshub.com/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1K6zCjAz7XARVSYzLshCrFv87lG_DNAx6vQrggVYhtQmmfsTWpdgcteD6QcHgLK_lJSW1ckS7rhyphenhyphen5PTfPAQGoIe4tiWxa3nm02HkpXEYzsWtcXVkc27xRex9JljjR2CKMUmNlWD-SYgY/s1600/afk-logo-new%5B1%5D.png" height="106" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://artforkidshub.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Art for Kids Hub</span></a> is a FREE, really fun, easy to follow learning how-to-draw and art projects. Rob does an incredible job in the videos teaching art to his own children and teaching the viewers as well. The camera is set up so that it's looking down on a table and you can see his hand and paper and the hand and paper of whichever of his children he is working with. He is very fun, upbeat, encouraging and positive. If you subscribe you get updates every Monday for new art videos. <br />
<br />
<strong><u>Pro2ge Summit Bible </u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><u><a href="http://www.pro2ge.com/store/"><img alt="http://www.pro2ge.com/store/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb82T3vWh49HXklIeqMJwR9-Tv5BLlvClK320tqNedNnLaqKMUrpevizM7jA4FVB0k0-kyy58sbxWKLvm79t4War7AfF16fEeDVxSvzOmlyRpYolrFdPJmGu7ciBwbShd6jVFJLCqP9Exx/s1600/masthead%5B1%5D.png" height="176" width="320" /></a></u></strong></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm always on the hunt for a Bible study for kids that 1) Is budget friendly 2) fun and engaging 3) is open and go 4) lessons are not too lengthy 5) and of course learn foundational truths of God's Word. I am really excited about <a href="http://www.pro2ge.com/store/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Pro2ge Summit: God's Greatness</span></a> because it aligns with everything I listed. It's the first book available in a series of 6 books, with each book being 48 weeks. It's intended for 6-12 year olds. You simply need the <a href="http://www.discipleland.com/Elementary/Pro2ge/Summit-1-Guidebook-Gods-Greatness"><span style="color: #38761d;">Summit 1 Guidebook</span></a> for each child and a Bible. There are 12 "Trails" and each has 4 weeks to it. The "Trails" rotate between Bible Knowledge, Christian Character, and Faithful Conduct. <br />
<br />
In addition it incorporates Bible memory with free <a href="http://www.pro2ge.com/resources/biblememory/"><span style="color: #38761d;">printables</span></a> on the website. For a younger child you can choose the Trail Key Verse, which would have the child memorize one verse during the entire 4 week "Trail". Or for older children, the Trail Verses, which would have the child memorize one verse per week.<br />
<br />
Another fun, optional, component is the <a href="http://www.pro2ge.com/resources/projects/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Free Project Awards Program</span></a>. There are 3 categories: Outdoor, Home, and Community and then 6 sub-categories under each. So if you click on "Outdoor" there are 6 sub-categories: Wildlife, recreation, camping, nature, Hiking, and survival skills. "Home": personal care, food & nutrition, family care, hobbies, life skills, fixing and building. And for "Community": field trips, citizenship, church, fine arts, health & safety, and technology. So that is a total of 108 different skills, projects, and activities they can choose from and work to complete. They do have an awards system where you can purchase badges and special coins for bible memory and project completion but I will just do my own rewards system. <br />
<br />
So those are my plans for this next year! I feel very good about what I have chosen. I'd love to hear from any of my readers what you have planned!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-54284445371312798252015-03-04T20:50:00.001-08:002015-03-06T15:26:54.603-08:00Meet Chime!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYn9HbfWmASFenVue4GWBLy9f_Tw7hwuLtdl6QwlIbKltBRiqrpggcig93FTBXkiFl2Q4hsU6EIh10i3VYndVbN2zaAWnb5MRynLscs95IG2F-jiRDshcAY959gs_xCmlgK2Xm1re1EE7u/s1600/IMG_0945%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYn9HbfWmASFenVue4GWBLy9f_Tw7hwuLtdl6QwlIbKltBRiqrpggcig93FTBXkiFl2Q4hsU6EIh10i3VYndVbN2zaAWnb5MRynLscs95IG2F-jiRDshcAY959gs_xCmlgK2Xm1re1EE7u/s1600/IMG_0945%5B1%5D.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Is that not the sweetest puppy you have ever seen?! Her nickname is Chime, but her full name is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carillon"><span style="color: #38761d;">Carillon Belle</span></a> Chime! She is an Australian Labradoodle from <a href="http://www.mtparklabradoodles.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Mountain Park Labradoodles</span></a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This past week has been one full of blessing upon blessing. It literally has felt like God reached down and wrapped His arms around me in the warmest most loving hug. And compared to all the heartache over the past 8 months I have to say it was a very needed hug! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have never been a dog lover...EVER! The idea of me being a dog owner was not anything I ever aspired to be. But when you have kids, most likely you are going to have them begging for a dog at one point or another. Of course my girls begged, and begged, and begged but my answer was always a big, fat, "NO!!!!" Towards the end of 2013 I began to take a small interest in the idea. Of course it was, "Someday when we move and get more property, then we'll <em><strong>THINK</strong></em> about getting a dog." </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That all changed the first time I met my sweet friends Australian Labradoodle, Jack. I had never been excited about a dog until that point. I loved the feel of his fleece coat and could literally sit there and pet him forever. That wasn't normal for me. He had such a sweet temperament which really got my attention. My idea of dogs were those who bark incessantly, shed abundantly, smell incredibly, and are non-stop energy. If I was going to give into this whole, owning a dog thing, it would have to be an Australian Labradoodle. They are dogs bred specifically to be a companion dog, low to non-shedding, don't have the typically "wet" dog smell, and are great dogs to run with!!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNjdPAc_1JeU6kS6rpZJ68pYcND8b-9ptLbxDk-Sd4Af_gqpMg1zAftP4s4BZmRQJvUGYYSXTpbB9aimYk3XIDq09rlRgRHJdKIueveJC8g0O7srPh-MxMl5BJLTxLIrDta6MbvtS-nGy/s1600/IMG_0948%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNjdPAc_1JeU6kS6rpZJ68pYcND8b-9ptLbxDk-Sd4Af_gqpMg1zAftP4s4BZmRQJvUGYYSXTpbB9aimYk3XIDq09rlRgRHJdKIueveJC8g0O7srPh-MxMl5BJLTxLIrDta6MbvtS-nGy/s1600/IMG_0948%5B1%5D.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jack</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then summer of 2014 came, and our family went through a major crisis and it seemed that getting a dog would now be an impossible task, considering the average cost of this breed is $2500. But I have seen the Lord do the impossible before in my life and knew I had to pursue this. I was a mama on a mission to make our "doodle" dream a reality!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A few things I did in my efforts included, starting an online <a href="http://www.gofundme.com/dn4zps"><span style="color: #38761d;">fundraiser</span></a> and applying online for several guardian family programs. The guardian program allows families to bring a puppy into their home at no cost (or a small refundable deposit), however, the breeders have all breeding rights to the dog until she is retired from breeding. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the meantime, the girls and I spent lots of time reading about dogs, talking about dogs, praying about getting a dog, and watching online videos about training a puppy! But neither of these two efforts, online fundraising or the guardian program applications, seemed to be getting us any closer to actually getting a dog. It seemed that every door for the guardian program just kept shutting in my face. It was discouraging but I just surrendered it before the Lord.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Several months later, on Saturday, February 28th, I received a very unexpected email from Debi at <a href="http://www.mtparklabradoodles.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Mt Park Labradoodles</span></a>. She was inquiring to see if I was still interested in the guardian program because they had a puppy, whom they had named Carillon Belle Chime, needing to be placed in a guardian home. She had gone to live with a VERY sweet family, who unfortunately, after one week of having her had to return her due to unforeseen circumstances in their lives. She needed someone as soon as the following afternoon!!!! There was a refundable $500 deposit, which would be reimbursed after Chime is retired from breeding (about 3 1/2 years).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was beside myself! In fact I kept saying, "<strong><em>God are you serious? What in the world is going on here? Is this really happening?</em></strong>" The reason I was so amazed and bewildered is because that whole previous week had been already full of some amazing blessings and now this was the cherry on top!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
And so it was on Sunday, March 1st, I drove to Debi's home and picked Chime up. The best part was my girls had no idea and later that evening I was able to give them the biggest surprise of their lives!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFY8ghmb2taYm0FJcK5sZwZZflGe2g_AemMGW-oPMAwh4yE9VJ0up49NULCUVkAv8JL2spjRMG98FCgUQGc0sqW3L1_KJqaqwXI57yL4FTd6mcuQ5XBndwlM2nXA42UI_dJS5-Wxg57rS6/s1600/IMG_0889%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFY8ghmb2taYm0FJcK5sZwZZflGe2g_AemMGW-oPMAwh4yE9VJ0up49NULCUVkAv8JL2spjRMG98FCgUQGc0sqW3L1_KJqaqwXI57yL4FTd6mcuQ5XBndwlM2nXA42UI_dJS5-Wxg57rS6/s1600/IMG_0889%5B1%5D.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moments after meeting Chime!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The blessings have continued pouring in even after receiving Chime. </div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The notice to get the dog was so short I literally had nothing for a puppy. However, the previous guardian family chose to bless us generously with everything they had purchased for Chime: a crate, bed, shampoo, ear cleaner, carpet stain & odor eliminator, a comb, treats, dog food, toys, Nyla bones, a leash, and puppy spray. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In addition to this, remember the online fundraiser I mentioned? Well I raised $170 through it, plus another $150 given to me, for a total of $320 which I used toward my $500 deposit. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A dear friend wants to take the girls and I shopping for any remaining smaller puppy items we need as a belated birthday present. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another friend messaged me and wants to send a small monetary gift to help out as well!</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am so incredibly grateful and soaking every bit of it in. God sees, He knows, and He cares about every detail of our lives....even our silly "doodle" dreams! What a testimony to my children that miracles do happen when we put our hope and trust in the Lord. He is a God of the impossible and His timing is always perfect! I won't go into specifics but there is major significance to the date of March 1st, which is also the day I picked Chime up from the breeders. Just another way God was giving me a huge hug and reminding me of His love for me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Chime has brought so much laughter & joy, giggles and slobbering kisses. I've always heard dogs can be therapeutic but now I am living proof that they are. She is a sweet companion for all of us!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As a guardian family we are required to do dog obedience classes, purchase a specific high quality dog food, and transport Chime multiple times a year to vet appointments (pertaining to breeding) and to the breeders home, which will be about 1 1/2 hour drive each way. I also have the remaining $180 deposit to pay the breeder and need to fence in one side of my back yard. I know God will provide for these extra expenses one way or another, but if you feel led to donate please go to: <a href="http://www.gofundme.com/dn4zps"><span style="color: #38761d;">Go Fund Me</span></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Q149f0Rv8tBfPIWoWsRz0XY4ncZR-iJ0XtE-AO3_DfNqbi0m2Khp5mR1HVroG3oCj7H5IYRB9fHwWqOlm3ciQl9Qb2B2fE4RJ0h5ilLSLDRFOgUgRfzAJgzJ1yAoG4KM5I31yKWgZ9MK/s1600/IMG_0931%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Q149f0Rv8tBfPIWoWsRz0XY4ncZR-iJ0XtE-AO3_DfNqbi0m2Khp5mR1HVroG3oCj7H5IYRB9fHwWqOlm3ciQl9Qb2B2fE4RJ0h5ilLSLDRFOgUgRfzAJgzJ1yAoG4KM5I31yKWgZ9MK/s1600/IMG_0931%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trip to the pet store</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-Cwt3nh0UnaeFpOXo6QqXWM6dkOGtbos9Y1YJhLMZTh8gogvkE6ytZ-f2yZJIL-SzBHTEoTmr5uyfbnc8lRVCWD1l52aSVuPwrYQb2eLcW5fdbZ99b_jwppWsSacOhAQzkkS_tdxGamW/s1600/IMG_0939%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-Cwt3nh0UnaeFpOXo6QqXWM6dkOGtbos9Y1YJhLMZTh8gogvkE6ytZ-f2yZJIL-SzBHTEoTmr5uyfbnc8lRVCWD1l52aSVuPwrYQb2eLcW5fdbZ99b_jwppWsSacOhAQzkkS_tdxGamW/s1600/IMG_0939%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chime's favorite spot in the car!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOdSxsiCusTOdjxfl7VKZG2BXX6dYmCLd-uaYqf22hSnVZebur2Y1Z_kTtXCnWXPVVkPj7hfY3uw7MddvGGttsUP9ppzlR7FZreZ1NjDU3_WZnAvUnJVxr8qeDR5mw6EXqiTyhj377vj9/s1600/IMG_0947%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOdSxsiCusTOdjxfl7VKZG2BXX6dYmCLd-uaYqf22hSnVZebur2Y1Z_kTtXCnWXPVVkPj7hfY3uw7MddvGGttsUP9ppzlR7FZreZ1NjDU3_WZnAvUnJVxr8qeDR5mw6EXqiTyhj377vj9/s1600/IMG_0947%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the sunshine!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-31216929642294207502015-02-12T19:37:00.001-08:002015-02-12T22:32:09.049-08:00One Pebble At A Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiliKuyeGN-PDyH9mxpqTjOyXv-4qjxDd7sdSTXtNdlYXYINUc68MEDXpzpBC5NWqORjcadsj710qhES6LFLhfvUjJL3TRlbqPmBtDfqOOgexwRoEa1g_aCCrJ1xCE2Wr46M1ROX4YXkvUa/s1600/IMG_0771%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiliKuyeGN-PDyH9mxpqTjOyXv-4qjxDd7sdSTXtNdlYXYINUc68MEDXpzpBC5NWqORjcadsj710qhES6LFLhfvUjJL3TRlbqPmBtDfqOOgexwRoEa1g_aCCrJ1xCE2Wr46M1ROX4YXkvUa/s1600/IMG_0771%5B1%5D.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One small little pebble, even a few, don't really amount to much. You can't really create anything of significance when you only have a dozen in the palm of your hand. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>I want you to think of each word you utter as one small pebble</strong>....that adds up to ALOT of pebbles in a lifetime. Every pebble from every word spoken is added to build one of two pathways. One pathway that leads to life and another path that leads to death. Think about every person God has put in your life...which pathway are you adding pebbles to in each of those relationships?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vtL4LQhwqnCQ95QUvKvFHlm7LphBqcGsyAurnwt2_xHkjm9xMumV_e0gJ1mAMqAN09e7Uq27jAgzJI4rHQHIynUCPTQym3lfO30jLCT2THrhyjumdA9hyzCD-_1_ZEE3mMqmlyMomASL/s1600/5863f30cbbffa19e5f2f66d491f2272d%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vtL4LQhwqnCQ95QUvKvFHlm7LphBqcGsyAurnwt2_xHkjm9xMumV_e0gJ1mAMqAN09e7Uq27jAgzJI4rHQHIynUCPTQym3lfO30jLCT2THrhyjumdA9hyzCD-_1_ZEE3mMqmlyMomASL/s1600/5863f30cbbffa19e5f2f66d491f2272d%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="258" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's easy to look at one small pebble and see it as insignificant and harmless. One word spoken in anger, frustration, or hurt...not a big deal. We all have our "off" days, right? The person on the receiving end of my harsh words...they know I love them. So you've just tossed a pebble onto the path leading to death. Then you turn around and speak a word of praise, adoration, encouragement, or kindness...now you've laid one on the path leading to life. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Which pathway do you want to put the most time, energy, and effort into building?</strong> It happens one pebble at a time but over a series of weeks, months, and years it adds up to something of absolute significance. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWZLnpgXa2S6gfhreeUNLxGCX-iB2R-LvVXnIUOX28XGqL05eMO5fBe37EWkx164E0Gq6zzgiOaxcsFLkavt90MriSCGWsEeA7ohuserl_TjqgQbb5sLgVLR8fbjnid5cUofd7IFOqNxX/s1600/68b0ca86305abed1b53637bd48c617fb%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWZLnpgXa2S6gfhreeUNLxGCX-iB2R-LvVXnIUOX28XGqL05eMO5fBe37EWkx164E0Gq6zzgiOaxcsFLkavt90MriSCGWsEeA7ohuserl_TjqgQbb5sLgVLR8fbjnid5cUofd7IFOqNxX/s1600/68b0ca86305abed1b53637bd48c617fb%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWZLnpgXa2S6gfhreeUNLxGCX-iB2R-LvVXnIUOX28XGqL05eMO5fBe37EWkx164E0Gq6zzgiOaxcsFLkavt90MriSCGWsEeA7ohuserl_TjqgQbb5sLgVLR8fbjnid5cUofd7IFOqNxX/s1600/68b0ca86305abed1b53637bd48c617fb%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Edify. Encourage. Uplift. Praise. Comfort. Inspire. Strengthen. Compliment. Esteem. Respect. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Choose <strong>Life Giving Words</strong> and you will construct the most beautiful, thriving, flourishing, healthy, lush pathway.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NT04_ZnBLAP6EKoIqNVOgUMOQf7f_OhG6Dlrc631qb-RKfV2lFq3U5k2zFd-6dG0X1COG91XZFwS-QcVmQM0ntFR4I-SOnl5bCFjmLe3dV1uLuhtuQ6pBQvMF4L_vbwf1vZzM5sdo05L/s1600/67951c5e0d8101a6e47a5708bd533d42%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NT04_ZnBLAP6EKoIqNVOgUMOQf7f_OhG6Dlrc631qb-RKfV2lFq3U5k2zFd-6dG0X1COG91XZFwS-QcVmQM0ntFR4I-SOnl5bCFjmLe3dV1uLuhtuQ6pBQvMF4L_vbwf1vZzM5sdo05L/s1600/67951c5e0d8101a6e47a5708bd533d42%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Look beyond the pebble to the completed pathway. Your words matter. Every. Single. Word. Uttered.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhteygPYs_0Q_kKgMHS1heyozKve8U1eybhiKUf5v8GueV5vGoSp2U6kDJbY6gOuhjZdaWtxlo9FwPPVoQEDE2ikI_65qeIyET56-dACZ2voqb-QhEsotmXf7glIiYuw1KTP3_r1pwfjIf/s1600/a7f2e78e48e84547155487dd46e76e7c%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhteygPYs_0Q_kKgMHS1heyozKve8U1eybhiKUf5v8GueV5vGoSp2U6kDJbY6gOuhjZdaWtxlo9FwPPVoQEDE2ikI_65qeIyET56-dACZ2voqb-QhEsotmXf7glIiYuw1KTP3_r1pwfjIf/s1600/a7f2e78e48e84547155487dd46e76e7c%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="257" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you struggle with your words, with anger, with coming unglued, I encourage you to: </div>
<ol>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Get on your knees, right now, and pray these words - "<em>Jesus, I desperately need you to bring change and to set me free. I am hurting. I am struggling. I don't know how to get my emotions under control and I need your help. I repent before you for all the words I've spoken in anger or frustration. I want my words to build a pathway of life in my marriage, with my children, and in all my relationships. </em><em>I want my words to honor my husband, encourage my children, and edify others. </em><em>Please provide the tools, resources, and help in my life to begin to make some very needed changes in how I speak. Change me from the inside out. I have laid so many pebbles down on the wrong pathway and although I can't undo my past, with your help I can begin to build a beautiful pathway from this day forward. In Jesus name I pray, Amen</em>."</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Go to anyone whom you have harmed by your words and humbly seek forgiveness. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spend time every day in God's Word and in prayer...even if it's only 5 minutes or doing devotionals alongside your children (that counts too!)</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have a "grateful" journal you can write in daily and list out things you are thankful for in your life. It's easy to focus in on the negatives in those we spend the most time with and lose sight of all the wonderful aspects of our life. Don't take any person in your life for granted.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Find a wonderful Christian Counselor and commit to a season of individual counseling. Perhaps there are some things from your past where healing needs to happen in order for you to begin a new pathway in your life.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Read - "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Unglued-Making-Choices-Midst-Emotions-ebook/dp/B006BESZFG"><span style="color: #38761d;">Unglued</span></a>: Making wise choices in the midst of raw emotions" by Lysa Terkeurst </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Recognize that you can only take steps to change YOU...and changing the way you speak is a great start!!!</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDvOM0KPfkD-aogp_ELnbvdiCiAYMGaASrVibipH68n6iGrOo6XQjI43H7RLKjv8qPkecSehLpM0gbSKsjvbEdZJ2U2bccZx0ozDKg-UurlK3LWPPmFh5MpkdDksZMT5-wEwWf94seDMsi/s1600/3be352bffd4d1ee0711b7948681d2de1%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDvOM0KPfkD-aogp_ELnbvdiCiAYMGaASrVibipH68n6iGrOo6XQjI43H7RLKjv8qPkecSehLpM0gbSKsjvbEdZJ2U2bccZx0ozDKg-UurlK3LWPPmFh5MpkdDksZMT5-wEwWf94seDMsi/s1600/3be352bffd4d1ee0711b7948681d2de1%5B1%5D.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I share all of this out of my own personal struggles and experiences. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can't undo the past but I can create a very different future. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Every Pebble Matters!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<ol>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-74340254935139090992015-02-08T18:26:00.000-08:002015-02-08T18:43:40.756-08:00Finding the Blessings in DetoursThe other night my girls and I were driving home very late from a friends house. We were on a country road with no other vehicles around and I was driving about 45mph. Not long into our drive, I noticed a vehicle up ahead with its lights flashing. The vehicle was on the opposite side of the road with it's headlights facing my direction. As I neared the vehicle I slowed way down, uncertain of what was going on. Thank goodness I made that decision to slow down and be cautious because just up ahead a huge tree had fallen and was completely blocking the highway. <br />
<br />
There was absolutely no way of getting around the tree and the ONLY choice I had was to make a U-turn and take a much longer route home. It wasn't until I was much further down the road that it suddenly hit me...if that truck would not have been there with it's flashing lights warning me of the danger ahead, I would have certainly crashed into that tree. I don't even want to think of what that could have resulted in. <br />
<br />
The detour definitely delayed things but eventually my 3 very sleepy girls and I made it home....in one piece. I was thankful I had the option of a detour to get to my destination. Waiting hours for that roadblock to be removed would have been awful (though I'm sure my friend would have let us stay overnight in that case!)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ0g-XNy5QazxON0aayF8X7p1MYiZv0EOe0oJSSUIcqKPfd4_Vml4sicFSQtBqgs_MQTVlhpp39rIrtnHJQIwOrrynKWKCYpnBW_CxP748xco1TSI-pmprpUhklI1XGPE71safSK6wr5oO/s1600/b8176f4851490f18c3cc72e4a33464c0%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ0g-XNy5QazxON0aayF8X7p1MYiZv0EOe0oJSSUIcqKPfd4_Vml4sicFSQtBqgs_MQTVlhpp39rIrtnHJQIwOrrynKWKCYpnBW_CxP748xco1TSI-pmprpUhklI1XGPE71safSK6wr5oO/s1600/b8176f4851490f18c3cc72e4a33464c0%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="308" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
The book of Genesis tells the most incredible life story of Joseph. In Genesis 37, Joseph went looking for his brothers, who were out pasturing their sheep, to see how they were doing. If only there would have been flashing lights or big signs along the way, warning him of the danger ahead. In the blink of an eye, the course of his life changed. He was about to take a major detour...or what appeared to be a detour. He was betrayed by his own brothers and sold into slavery. He was falsely accused and thrown into prison. He was a slave when he should have been a free man. If anyone understood roadblocks, detours, sorrows, and discouraging circumstances, it was Joseph. <br />
<br />
It wasn't until over a decade later that God's amazing plan was revealed. In Genesis 50:20, when he stood face to face with his brothers, who had betrayed him so many years before, he spoke these words..."<em>You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people</em>." This detour actually turned out to be one of the most amazing blessings, not only for Joseph, but also for his entire family. Throughout it all, Joseph remained faithful to the Lord, strong in his convictions, continued to walk in the gifting's God had given him, and had the courage to rise above his circumstances.<br />
<br />
What roadblock are you facing in your life? What unforeseen circumstances have you found yourself in? What is before you that is causing overwhelming discouragement? It might feel bigger than life. You may not be able to see anything else ahead because that darn "tree" is blocking your view. Do you feel like your life has taken a major detour? <br />
<br />
When we face difficult roadblocks, its natural for our flesh to want to sulk, kick, scream, cry, get bitter, grow angry, blame God, and to remain stuck. Joseph certainly had every right to respond this way. But there IS another option...crank the steering wheel and make a U-turn. And then trust the Lord to navigate you home. Detours are a major inconvenience but there can be blessings along the way and a plan that unfolds greater than you could imagine. God has a plan...and it's always for good.<br />
<br />
<strong>What I love about Joseph is that he did not allow the detour to bring defeat. His circumstances did NOT define him. He made the most of a situation that was completely out of his control. He rose above his hardships.</strong> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_Q6YP205OalVTqyuA31QxcMK-NCbypbKWDMR0TdFLNZJGViHuEfrOQSpt6w4SE0xT-R0n9ITpwEqBnqOPE5KTer2rIhegji89qwluJLnLl6VPwpiP2AnoUGIwJKaQnzcQaarrUZ2ya9o/s1600/fe5fb82a3d53dcff963c5b8093f444f0%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_Q6YP205OalVTqyuA31QxcMK-NCbypbKWDMR0TdFLNZJGViHuEfrOQSpt6w4SE0xT-R0n9ITpwEqBnqOPE5KTer2rIhegji89qwluJLnLl6VPwpiP2AnoUGIwJKaQnzcQaarrUZ2ya9o/s1600/fe5fb82a3d53dcff963c5b8093f444f0%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Lord, whatever is before this precious soul, it may be something that came so suddenly and so unexpectedly into their life, it may feel so overwhelming, more than they can handle, and beyond their ability to overcome. I ask that you would lead them along the path, giving them the strength and endurance for the difficulties they are facing. Sometimes we just can not escape the pain, we have to walk through it, but you are there every step of the way. May they put all their trust in you Jesus. May they cling to you. And although they may not see or understand your plan in the detour, may one day that plan be made known. May they also see your blessings along the way. In Jesus mighty name I pray. Amen"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-27721824661105059502015-01-31T15:35:00.002-08:002015-01-31T15:35:42.375-08:00When my heart is overwhelmed....Yesterday I threw a really big fit! Don't worry I didn't throw myself on the ground and start kicking and screaming, but I certainly could have been mistaken for a 2 year old by my actions. <br />
<br />
I was having a hard day emotionally and probably should have put myself in a time-out in my bedroom to work through my stuff...but instead I was attempting to help my 11 year old with her math. Can I just say....bad idea.<br />
<br />
Back when I first started homeschooling, the greatest area of struggle was, can you guess?....yes math. I can remember getting so frustrated trying to teach a Kindergartner math concepts. I would cry and think, "I can't do this" or "I'm such a failure, I can't even teach math to a 5 year old." We went through multiple math programs until we came across Queen Homeschool: <a href="https://www.queenshomeschooling.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=67_68&zenid=5eb21ff88527ae46d1676f98d5c94b4b"><span style="color: #38761d;">Math Lessons for a Living Education</span></a>. It was a keeper for us and we have used it for the past 5 years. <br />
<br />
No matter how great a curriculum you find, if your child doesn't like a certain subject or struggles in it, you are going to have difficult days....and this was just one of those sort of days. I was already in a place of feeling overwhelmed and the combination of my daughters attitude was too much for me in that moment. The end result of my "fit" was a math book in the garbage (Sorry Angela O'Dell, wonderful author of this curriculum, but keep reading). I know, such a mature thing to do right?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XU8ZCWVHbNiuPK40MZYGI613EaSFN-BMHD51aS1h936_bs8rDxYGJUFsBbrhIgAU7mo-Gsbkpww3zwuoz5QpVxq_Ou506XSLlsQhvukIhpndjjy3tSgL0VhpMBPdoosRrRvrOKSAJOLs/s1600/0b801b775cebc382a417fed6d57af818%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XU8ZCWVHbNiuPK40MZYGI613EaSFN-BMHD51aS1h936_bs8rDxYGJUFsBbrhIgAU7mo-Gsbkpww3zwuoz5QpVxq_Ou506XSLlsQhvukIhpndjjy3tSgL0VhpMBPdoosRrRvrOKSAJOLs/s1600/0b801b775cebc382a417fed6d57af818%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="282" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We all have hard days. We all have days where any combination of circumstances, fatigue, sickness, kids with attitude, pressures, stresses, and demands on our time can be so <strong>OVERWHELMING</strong>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We can't do anything in our own strength. We need Jesus every moment of every day. We can't parent in our own strength, we can't homeschool in our own strength, and we can't face all that life throws at us in our own strength.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My daughter actually approached me first to apologize for her attitude. I held her in my arms and cried and apologized for my fit...but I still wasn't ready to remove the math book from the garbage. I jumped in the shower (aka my prayer closet) and just poured my heart out to the Lord. I was wrestling with so many things. I started to realize that the combination of my already emotional state, added to teaching math to a child having attitude, were not a good combination. Also the math was just moving along at a quicker pace, teaching too many new concepts with not enough review in between, for my struggling child. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The math book was salvaged from the garbage can (Yay!)...but it's going up on a shelf for a little while. I printed some free math worksheets for some much needed review. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If I could pass on any encouragement to you it would be:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1) If you are facing some heavy circumstances in your life or having a rare emotionally rough day, <strong>give yourself GRACE</strong> - We are not and will never be perfect. Rough days are inevitable, and thank goodness, because they remind us we are frail humans who need to rely on the Lord.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzqLhLifggsIWzAB22DIWjZ8P8N0IRX5NKPHvHluJHaSIdvlKX6Sp1aP9Vy91rPImzfRc04tz0cP3lBqo-FYU3ygTgj6LFV1nHJMVMvOGGux442Lmb4_1ferLeamw-zqeSEKBamrVeotKt/s1600/98e900d9a432c5f244aaa22282b1d66a%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzqLhLifggsIWzAB22DIWjZ8P8N0IRX5NKPHvHluJHaSIdvlKX6Sp1aP9Vy91rPImzfRc04tz0cP3lBqo-FYU3ygTgj6LFV1nHJMVMvOGGux442Lmb4_1ferLeamw-zqeSEKBamrVeotKt/s1600/98e900d9a432c5f244aaa22282b1d66a%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2) <strong>Know your LIMITS and readjust your EXPECTATIONS</strong>- As much as we all wish we were super human, we are not. We are limited, weak, and easily overwhelmed. Give yourself permission to retreat to your room, if possible, to take a moment to pray, cry, read from your devotional, or simply to take a deep breath and calm down. The Lord will carry your burdens if you let Him. If you homeschool and need to let go of, change up, or put a curriculum on the shelf for a while....it's OK!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NuuLtbHLkFXqOH1CZlZUQpYCrIbZBEgc1-Fmkipw9uod9btpoZ2DB1vQPVaxqTKCFvLB4XKt87Y9Wa6enOPl0R8Z-njLTxgIvawKjHFT39-ca2koB-aY0uepvJVRmDWPLEu6iqUmrHed/s1600/3bd36906f45006510d734b689a11b65d%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NuuLtbHLkFXqOH1CZlZUQpYCrIbZBEgc1-Fmkipw9uod9btpoZ2DB1vQPVaxqTKCFvLB4XKt87Y9Wa6enOPl0R8Z-njLTxgIvawKjHFT39-ca2koB-aY0uepvJVRmDWPLEu6iqUmrHed/s1600/3bd36906f45006510d734b689a11b65d%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3) <strong>Where are your priorities</strong>? <strong>Is it in projects or in people?</strong> I have said it before and I will say it again...Homeschooling and life in general are about so much more than academics, agenda's, programs, busyness, and projects....<strong>It's ALL about relationship! </strong>When there is more emphasis put on checking things off a to-do list or not falling "behind" in homeschool curriculum, you will always be left feeling undone, overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, and may possibly throw your own tantrum (but please refrain from throwing anything in the garbage...unless it's truly trash!).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Lord, I lift up to you this precious woman, whom you see and know and love. You understand all the desires of her heart and all the decisions, demands, and duties before her. You know her strengths and her weaknesses, her struggles and gifting's. Pour out your grace in those overwhelming moments, days, or circumstances. Help her to let go of trying to perfectly balance everything in her own strength. Show her what needs to be at the top of her priorities and to let go of anything that is unnecessary baggage. And most of all engulf her in your unending, unfailing, unconditional, unrelenting, and unchanging love. In Jesus name I pray, Amen." </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-63109550058683649992015-01-08T16:08:00.000-08:002015-01-08T16:29:53.794-08:00RestorationFor the past few years a friend and I each choose a word we proclaim for ourselves at the start of the new year. My word this year is Restoration!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIFqTqhvB9wA2vRcAxrIrIv9CJ74X8imrp9s1ZLOYzG_-J3lpZc_Z1wjnJyqjpnRmk0IXIPrsLOgHqkVuh_gu3V_W4oBY2cvc8d0jEkS1Y1A0_yXsUYWTfnCoDVRJooRjYoyd4t1FrztR/s1600/a75b792e3e2a8df5d72da28d5559a8a6%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIFqTqhvB9wA2vRcAxrIrIv9CJ74X8imrp9s1ZLOYzG_-J3lpZc_Z1wjnJyqjpnRmk0IXIPrsLOgHqkVuh_gu3V_W4oBY2cvc8d0jEkS1Y1A0_yXsUYWTfnCoDVRJooRjYoyd4t1FrztR/s1600/a75b792e3e2a8df5d72da28d5559a8a6%5B1%5D.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
I love to watch shows on TV that show the restoration of a home. Shows like "Property Brothers", "Rehab Addict", and "Love It or List It". The transformation is always so unbelievable to me. You start out with this old, worn out, cluttered, chaotic, out-of-date, disorganized house and in a 30 minute segment it is given a brand new look. Same House - New Look!! Although to the viewer it feels like the restoration takes place at the snap of the fingers, it's actually weeks and weeks of a process-a lot of sweat, hard labor, time, and money. <br />
<br />
I have some friends who have restored old furniture and it's so remarkable and amazing to see the end result. It's hard to believe that something so beautiful, clean, and in "mint" condition could really come out of something old and falling apart. From junk to a treasure. From an "eye sore" to a stunning sight. From a waste of space to having purpose!! From old and decayed to brand new!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQEuB_qmRHJE48DyniDmhaWtqOORjikhc2vZqF5LlfJnLpAYNeG65fcD7DzZrx2kXUbA8KPv0zSWFhYUBvxXNNiBbUzQbnzFNowpCSzhgldW3u5292mRnxAlPbAB2FG0WaIkvszxgrcx6t/s1600/15e4e0a8bb03bcfcc5a5d08609d17b05%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQEuB_qmRHJE48DyniDmhaWtqOORjikhc2vZqF5LlfJnLpAYNeG65fcD7DzZrx2kXUbA8KPv0zSWFhYUBvxXNNiBbUzQbnzFNowpCSzhgldW3u5292mRnxAlPbAB2FG0WaIkvszxgrcx6t/s1600/15e4e0a8bb03bcfcc5a5d08609d17b05%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<br />
The definition of Restoration is: <br />
: the act or process of returning something to its original condition by repairing it, cleaning it, etc.<br />
: the act of bringing back something that existed before<br />
<div class="bottom_entry">
: the act of returning something that was stolen or taken</div>
<br />
God is the original "Restoration Genius"...that is what He is in the business of! He takes the old and makes it new. He gives meaning, purpose, and value to our lives. And even though He is capable of restoring us overnight, it's usually a process, a long and sometimes painful process that involves our cooperation, hard work, commitment, surrender, tears, and often money (counseling).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPlxBR-3Aq6LU9_XOs03Gz5rmcviadDDUzFqlPPX7fpyy6blNNzBBdvDz29XlNnGzhClm8sET8muCZvojtiJTkzotM3XmbWJTLDHVpuTsRYsCP9XqE5iMx4riL81dZQG4W_tqIS5amjuw/s1600/750283da740fb213e2bd10b8d7e65f22%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPlxBR-3Aq6LU9_XOs03Gz5rmcviadDDUzFqlPPX7fpyy6blNNzBBdvDz29XlNnGzhClm8sET8muCZvojtiJTkzotM3XmbWJTLDHVpuTsRYsCP9XqE5iMx4riL81dZQG4W_tqIS5amjuw/s1600/750283da740fb213e2bd10b8d7e65f22%5B1%5D.jpg" height="281" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In order for me to get to that glorious place of restoration I have to first walk through the valley. In the valley there are thorns, rocks, raging rivers, mud, the scorching sun, and dense forests that I have to endure. It's hard, it's painful, it's difficult, and there are certainly days when I don't think I can press on. The tears come so easily. The pain is so raw. The anguish is so real.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But I have a promise in God's word that He is with me, He is beside me, He is close to me, He is comforting me, He leads me, and He protects me. I don't need to be in fear, I don't need to be in want, and I don't need to be in doubt. I will walk THROUGH the valley and come out on the other side whole, complete, healed, and restored. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So here is to a year of RESTORATION! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Do you need restoration in your life? Do you need God to bring healing? Transformation? Growth? Freedom? It might get a little messy in the process...but I am going to bet the outcome is well worth it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Lord I lift up those reading my blog who need you to move in a mighty way in their lives. They may be sitting here today feeling so lost, broken, wounded, ashamed, rejected, abandoned, unloved, or hopeless. May they encounter you in a brand new way. Your love, forgiveness, joy, hope, peace, freedom, healing, and restoration. You are so good. You love us immensely. Begin a new work in their life right now. May they hold tightly to you and trust you through the process. Help them to be brave to face whatever it is they need to face and find restoration on the other side. In Jesus mighty name I pray, Amen"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of my favorite songs that has been a blessing to me during this season of my life!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFfw6OSbUwE">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFfw6OSbUwE</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-27204922449436308562014-11-02T15:23:00.000-08:002014-11-02T15:31:01.998-08:00It Is Well...A friend recently introduced me to a worship CD called "<a href="http://bethelmusic.com/you-make-me-brave"><span style="color: #38761d;">You Make Me Brave</span></a>". I have been listening to it over and over, especially at night to help me fall asleep. There is one particular song that I have listened to more times than I can count called, "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNqo4Un2uZI"><span style="color: #38761d;">It is Well</span></a>", which has brought such peace to my anxious mind and heart and ministered to my soul.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FfoCF6vwe3l-1MBIU8MxGRx54LAf9pD-B26Wsryvd6b97hyfNkDdmsTMQy2MSrFR40OYFskgGWdGA1W3bopBqYZ_MhujShORwngptIVsae_4ZadCIavAHlN29-GRUjx_AMuJ2v4ww6KE/s1600/30dc20b809b19804657971eede5f03f8%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FfoCF6vwe3l-1MBIU8MxGRx54LAf9pD-B26Wsryvd6b97hyfNkDdmsTMQy2MSrFR40OYFskgGWdGA1W3bopBqYZ_MhujShORwngptIVsae_4ZadCIavAHlN29-GRUjx_AMuJ2v4ww6KE/s1600/30dc20b809b19804657971eede5f03f8%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a></div>
<br />
Over the past 3 1/2 months I have walked through one of the hardest seasons of my life. My husband of 13 years, made an unforeseen decision to walk out on our marriage.
There was no willingness to pursue counseling, no desire whatsoever to salvage our marriage, and yes in time I discovered there was someone else in his life. <br />
<br />
I have never experienced such anguish, grief, heartache, sorrow, and brokenness in my life. I have spent countless hours on my face weeping, crying and pouring out my heart to the Lord. But in the process I have been reminded of Gods promises....<br />
<br />
He has loved me with an everlasting Love! (Jeremiah 31)<br />
I can find rest in the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91)<br />
God alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken! (Psalm 62)<br />
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, He rescues those whose spirits are crushed! (Psalm 34)<br />
The Lord Himself will fight for me, I need only to be still! (Exodus 14)<br />
Those who trust in the Lord will find new strength! (Isaiah 40)<br />
The Lord my God is with me wherever I go! (Joshua 1)<br />
God arms me with strength and He makes my way perfect! (Psalm 18)<br />
The Lord will not fail or forsake me! (Deuteronomy 31)<br />
The Lord is my light and my salvation, The Lord is my defense! (Psalm 27)<br />
God will uphold me with His righteous right hand! (Isaiah 41)<br />
When I am weak, then I am strong! (2 Corinthians 12)<br />
The name of the Lord is a strong tower! (Proverbs 18)<br />
Peace He leaves with me; His peace He gives to me! (John 14)<br />
He will never let the righteous fall! (Psalm 55)<br />
My flesh and my heart may fail but God is the strength of my heart & my portion forever! (Psalm 73)<br />
By His wounds we are healed! (Isaiah 53)<br />
The faithful love of the Lord never ends! (Lamentations 3)<br />
I can come boldly before the thrown room of my gracious God. There I will receive His mercy, and I will find grace to help me when I need it most! (Hebrews 4)<br />
The Lord stands beside me like a mighty warrior! (Jeremiah 20)<br />
My life is safe in the care of my Lord, secure in His treasure pouch! (1 Samuel 25)<br />
He will make my innocence radiate like the dawn and He delights in every detail of my life! (Psalm 37)<br />
God has good plans for my life! (Jeremiah 29)<br />
Even when I walk through the darkest valley I do not need to be afraid, for He is close beside me! (Psalm 23)<br />
God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind! (2 Timothy 1)<br />
The Lord will rescue those who love Him, He will protect those who trust in His name! (Psalm 91)<br />
His peace will guard my heart and mind as I live in Christ Jesus! (Philippians 4)<br />
His power is absolute and His understanding beyond comprehension! (Psalm 147)<br />
He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless! (Isaiah 40)<br />
The Lord lights up my darkness! (Psalm 18)<br />
The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul! (Psalm 19)<br />
<br />
Oh I could literally go on and on! God is good!! Are you broken? Do you have immense pain in your life? Are you going through a grieving season? I want to tell you there is hope, there is always hope in Christ. Write out all the verses above and any others that bring you encouragement and feed on these verses all throughout your day (and in the middle of the night if need be). God can take your sorrow, hopelessness, and brokenness and fill your life with joy, hope, and wholeness! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp5XpzeetsnZ-_A0IhtLws3QTS7kfwhfktN6o17w0YzjZs8e2FeaJnMxiz-FbOtEUWPvczMZ8URXfxf5-gHkRGttf82Gse-UeID2BoOIr2-QsncgDQFd7b9rgQxvKgBubj11eV82czC0P_/s1600/cb4928bef2b63953d14c6ff190d12c02%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp5XpzeetsnZ-_A0IhtLws3QTS7kfwhfktN6o17w0YzjZs8e2FeaJnMxiz-FbOtEUWPvczMZ8URXfxf5-gHkRGttf82Gse-UeID2BoOIr2-QsncgDQFd7b9rgQxvKgBubj11eV82czC0P_/s1600/cb4928bef2b63953d14c6ff190d12c02%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Lord thank you for your love; a love that is unconditional, unwavering, unending, and unrelenting. You are more than enough. It is well with my soul!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-72178964873590221172014-08-18T17:59:00.001-07:002014-08-19T23:53:31.859-07:00Candida Cleanse - ConclusionHave you learned a few health tips through this blog series? I hope so...and I hope you will take and apply them to your day to day life: Add more water (and less sugary drinks), drink a green smoothie in the mornings, reduce refined sugar, and if you have any silver fillings consider getting them replaced!<br />
<br />
Today I want to share one final health tip, something that's been a big part of my life for the past 2 years....Running!!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9uKcOW8MPfUkXc6aHhL-ajQu13F-_oXr7Fv1dOI4zxIpHX4KLvtmzriqVEdDGgx6LtFDtvZxSQGogeNFZB6-tZyVH8Bp651Nm-kQRLUC5V9Yqypv3RWgVV7mbD-kg3QdmJ4mw6t6uoXQ/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+(37).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9uKcOW8MPfUkXc6aHhL-ajQu13F-_oXr7Fv1dOI4zxIpHX4KLvtmzriqVEdDGgx6LtFDtvZxSQGogeNFZB6-tZyVH8Bp651Nm-kQRLUC5V9Yqypv3RWgVV7mbD-kg3QdmJ4mw6t6uoXQ/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+(37).JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Columbia Gorge Marathon!<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Ok, I'm sure just hearing that word makes some of you want to "run" all the way to your bedroom and hide under your covers right?!! You can probably list a million other things you'd rather do than run (or walk). Running isn't all that fun when you are gasping for breath, your heart is beating a thousand times faster, and you feel like you are going to die...and that's only 2 blocks into your run!!<br />
<br />
But here is the thing...you got to get off the couch and get moving if you want to be healthy! Exercise and nutrition go hand in hand. Running (or whatever you choose to get moving) is going to change your life! It's not going to be fun...initially. In fact, it's going to be ALOT of work. But keep at it, don't give up, set small goals, do it with a friend so you have accountability, and you are going to be amazed with the results!! <br />
<br />
There are so many benefits to running: lose weight, tone muscles, healthy heart, reduce stress, improve mood, burn calories, get outside and enjoy nature, helps fight anxiety/depression, gives you more energy, helps prevent high blood pressure, overall mental health, joint strength & stability, better sleep, develop new friendships, and be able to set personal goals and have satisfaction in accomplishing them. And remember it doesn't matter how fast or slow you go, you are not in competition with anyone but yourself!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUpZm0L0iDLL6fJBv-FupircwnTd60Q2vA2EB-7XE3hyQBSkM65dAW2FT1opw9wD_0YTKAahNOI1N_slcNrp6Jp-lMmxjUkhLrk1UmJ_y5ItjnBsL5PLiev0y-h3GhtW6F-oNsIQ4acqE/s1600/c5a600ebd3ff179b159ffc96db844262%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUpZm0L0iDLL6fJBv-FupircwnTd60Q2vA2EB-7XE3hyQBSkM65dAW2FT1opw9wD_0YTKAahNOI1N_slcNrp6Jp-lMmxjUkhLrk1UmJ_y5ItjnBsL5PLiev0y-h3GhtW6F-oNsIQ4acqE/s1600/c5a600ebd3ff179b159ffc96db844262%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
So moving onto week 6 of the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a>....<br />
<br />
Honestly, 6 weeks or longer is a long time to do any kind of a strict cleanse. In the midst of this cleanse I have found myself facing a very stressful situation in my life that is entirely out of my control. I have contemplated multiple times giving up on this cleanse but have kept pressing on...determined to see this through. However, I made a decision today that it's in my best interest that I do not continue to the full extent at this time. I will continue with the anti-fungal supplements & probiotics but am going to give myself a little grace in the area of diet. I have tremendous peace about this decision. Does this mean I go back to old habits? Nope! I am committed to incorporating all that I have learned into my daily diet...with a little allowance for some things I haven't been consuming on the cleanse!<br />
<br />
I feel incredibly proud of all the discipline and determination I have exemplified for the past 42 days. Even beyond this past 6 weeks, this entire past year, has brought about an immense amount of life changing knowledge. I made a decision to not just settle for having adult acne, digestive issues, headaches, fatigue, and anxiety but to be proactive with my health, get to the root issues going on inside my body, and find healing. In fact, I have been so inspired by my own journey to health over the past year, that I hope to someday (sooner than later) become a certified holistic nutritional consultant! I am currently looking into several distance learning programs and praying to see if this is what the Lord has for my life.<br />
<br />
I hope my decision to end the cleanse prematurely does not deter anyone from doing this <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">cleanse</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;"> </span>if you feel that this is something you need to do. It's a huge commitment and takes a lot of will power and focus...but is worth the sacrifice as you gain back your health and learn so much beneficial information.<br />
<br />
Blessings to each of you who have taken the time to read through this blog series!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are the links if you missed my previous posts for the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a> series: <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-intro.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Intro</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 1</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-2.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 2</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-3.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 3</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/08/candida-cleanse-week-4.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 4</span></a>, and <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/08/candida-cleanse-week-5.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 5</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*I am an affiliate for some of the links included in this blog series, which means, if you click on them and make a purchase, I will receive a commission.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-13997176162121350892014-08-11T10:53:00.002-07:002014-08-11T10:53:30.378-07:00Candida Cleanse - Week 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkVatfIXBjk9T3sVPz313h51VkCiWw2vkWBgBklBUjPmFRpSugt_8ARJpwsVq-z3tpTTFVbDDOFNMhT7isGKWOiZNS_L6ogaqMHU_MDHrf-9510aAmjjc85fSm11z6r57SYRtuN0wpfDa/s1600/21ec24def7754b264ad80baf2e22a9d8%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkVatfIXBjk9T3sVPz313h51VkCiWw2vkWBgBklBUjPmFRpSugt_8ARJpwsVq-z3tpTTFVbDDOFNMhT7isGKWOiZNS_L6ogaqMHU_MDHrf-9510aAmjjc85fSm11z6r57SYRtuN0wpfDa/s1600/21ec24def7754b264ad80baf2e22a9d8%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I have met a few families or individuals over the years who didn't/don't consume refined sugar (or if they do it's very little). I use to wonder two things: why and how?? Why would anyone not want some sweetness in their life and what is wrong with sugar anyways? I thought they were very "strange" people! (I use to think runners were crazy too but hey I've joined in on the craziness). It may have taken me far to long to catch on, but I can honestly now say, "I get it!!"<br />
<br />
So, reducing refined sugar, is the little tidbit I want to share this week for improving health. Refined sugar, an ingredient that you will find in so many foods beyond cookies, candy, and ice cream, is more detrimental than most realize. There is a very long list of health issues linked to refined sugar....including cancer. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAS6bSlYg1lJDdvtFmEh8kaP4yoAxgK3mXA5_8n_5haJ9LrXpQRSTui4EPgK9_XaLeK9xrfjMsHs8Qu9O1eFibArMPtSltPFDrnlHQfQWWkf268sDiV9PBbThEpesEjUuXM666FRQkJb7e/s1600/132813cb8d745cf471efcd93b61de21c%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAS6bSlYg1lJDdvtFmEh8kaP4yoAxgK3mXA5_8n_5haJ9LrXpQRSTui4EPgK9_XaLeK9xrfjMsHs8Qu9O1eFibArMPtSltPFDrnlHQfQWWkf268sDiV9PBbThEpesEjUuXM666FRQkJb7e/s1600/132813cb8d745cf471efcd93b61de21c%5B1%5D.jpg" height="381" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The average adult in the United States takes in 22 teaspoons of added sugar a day, or a whopping 150 pounds a year, while teens pile in 34 teaspoons a day. The American Heart Association recommends 6 teaspoons of sugar for women and 9 for men (1 teaspoon of sugar has about 4g of sugar). <br />
<br />
I could write an entire blog post on all the ways sugar can and is ruining the health of so many peoples lives, but instead I will provide you with a few good resources: "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU3GvRsFHqY"><span style="color: #38761d;">Toxic Sugar</span></a>", "<a href="http://nancyappleton.com/141-reasons-sugar-ruins-your-health/" rel="bookmark" sl-processed="1"><span style="color: #38761d;">141 Reasons</span><span style="color: #38761d;"> Sugar Ruins Your Health</span></a>", "<a href="http://healingvibes.com/healingarticles/the-most-toxic-food-you-can-eat/"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Most Toxic Food You Can Eat</span></a>", "<a href="http://www.organicauthority.com/health/health/the-health-hazards-of-refined-carbohydrates.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Organic Authority</span></a>", "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B56Gpf1f5_A"><span style="color: #38761d;">Is Sugar Toxic?</span></a> ".<br />
<br />
So my encouragement for anyone who wants to take steps to reduce sugar intake would be to start reading labels. As much as possible, choose the option which doesn't have added sugar. Also remember 4 grams = 1 teaspoon of sugar. If you want to limit your intake to 24 grams or 6 teaspoons of sugar per day (for females) then you might want to think twice about that can of soda that contains 43 grams of sugar!! (There is always the option of water!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNl696G1fFZNrbzMXW8VU6FCs_ahFsoELwXVF0kwyVyEIMPhohqocYswB6eKSuoN2Jhl1VyiXjVUPgKZQbZKT0TjNrjkqmNRwlvjGsFVHyH4ShbqBwvCMhAw71-d8PVPdHFRm0mAzrkGUX/s1600/7a385c2fdd5fedf2f4b06655a5c4583b%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNl696G1fFZNrbzMXW8VU6FCs_ahFsoELwXVF0kwyVyEIMPhohqocYswB6eKSuoN2Jhl1VyiXjVUPgKZQbZKT0TjNrjkqmNRwlvjGsFVHyH4ShbqBwvCMhAw71-d8PVPdHFRm0mAzrkGUX/s1600/7a385c2fdd5fedf2f4b06655a5c4583b%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I know...but it tastes SOOOOOOOOOOOO good! Well there are many natural sweeteners that you can use in place of refined sugar such as: stevia, organic raw honey, yacon syrup, maple syrup, organic black strap molasses, coconut palm sugar, dates and organic brown rice syrup.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rqhoUAz6SDmWoWssipvgND4PSubg2CGbsMo5_Ept8iw5E5c_yvAiHN6teBMlptcC5B4Mlp9CXgftoQAWW-5F_CU47eCjAw-bt2vBm8wrYi6er4KEE23hB8ZtDCeoA9nGTuLlOu_tq7bS/s1600/66151da13ac4aef4b610d410065e5511%5B2%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rqhoUAz6SDmWoWssipvgND4PSubg2CGbsMo5_Ept8iw5E5c_yvAiHN6teBMlptcC5B4Mlp9CXgftoQAWW-5F_CU47eCjAw-bt2vBm8wrYi6er4KEE23hB8ZtDCeoA9nGTuLlOu_tq7bS/s1600/66151da13ac4aef4b610d410065e5511%5B2%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
To watch a great video on overcoming sugar addiction, click <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/overcoming-sugar-addiction-video?searched=sugar&advsearch=allwords&highlight=ajaxSearch_highlight+ajaxSearch_highlight1"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>.<br />
<br />
Now onto week 5 of the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a>...<br />
<br />
After doing the spit test 3 days in a row, it was apparent that my spit is still sinking to the bottom. This is a huge indicator of candida overgrowth and one reason I started doing the candida cleanse in the first place. It felt a little disappointing but I know it's a process and I am committed to seeing this through to the end. I have to trust the journey. <br />
<br />
I am starting my 3rd time around on a 16 day anti-fungal rotation. Once I am finished, I will move onto phase 2 of the cleanse. So instead of a 6 week cleanse, this might be an 8 week or even 10 week cleanse. I'm ok with that! I have moments here and there where I really want to eat something sweet...I will usually make me some Coconut Almond Balls or <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/gluten-free-coconut-flour-lemon-cake"><span style="color: #38761d;">Coconut flour lemon cake</span></a> (both candida friendly recipes)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFA4wmo0KlYDmNj_xy3HAwipzTFwmSQiDUJ_P-wyMZDe_CYwTEAYS84Bl-06m-D3wnewExnTH4U28yg80qRkZTHNIiO9Sjt6c1C6Fl5GgJrsCTbRtA322_R5yk9zsSTazIXlb7vW4ghI6p/s1600/coconutflourlemoncake%5B1%5D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFA4wmo0KlYDmNj_xy3HAwipzTFwmSQiDUJ_P-wyMZDe_CYwTEAYS84Bl-06m-D3wnewExnTH4U28yg80qRkZTHNIiO9Sjt6c1C6Fl5GgJrsCTbRtA322_R5yk9zsSTazIXlb7vW4ghI6p/s1600/coconutflourlemoncake%5B1%5D.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cheers to health! Remember it's a process but it starts with one simple change, then another, and another over the course of days, weeks, months, and years. What change are you going to make today for your health?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are the links if you missed my previous posts for the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a> series: <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-intro.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Intro</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 1</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-2.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 2</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-3.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 3</span></a> and <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/08/candida-cleanse-week-4.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 4</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*I am an affiliate for some of the links included in this blog series, which means, if you click on them and make a purchase, I will receive a commission.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-47267130643686896832014-08-04T09:21:00.001-07:002014-08-04T09:36:25.154-07:00Candida Cleanse - Week 4I am writing this blog post from the beautiful Oregon coast. Enjoying some much needed time away with my girls and parents. I took a lovely run on the beach this morning, followed by a 1 1/2 hour massage. It was AMAZING!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sbg_-eq6ARV5_-AfxBKs1PcolB4BokvyhVHIhyphenhyphenRXd_n-w-xnP8DefUKw7luC8k3zawkZiZAFyMUpwmo6w5z7J45GI5x9UUQjDtRU_fGLJ7GDSScCxiGEWYiECCzO-G4RU61T2DarUt3W/s1600/IMG_4082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sbg_-eq6ARV5_-AfxBKs1PcolB4BokvyhVHIhyphenhyphenRXd_n-w-xnP8DefUKw7luC8k3zawkZiZAFyMUpwmo6w5z7J45GI5x9UUQjDtRU_fGLJ7GDSScCxiGEWYiECCzO-G4RU61T2DarUt3W/s1600/IMG_4082.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken from high up on a cliff-Pacific City, OR</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This past week I finally had something done that I have been waiting to do for several months now....I had my one and only silver (amalgam) filling removed and replaced with a composite filling. Amalgam fillings are comprised of 50% mercury. These fillings are so hazardous to your health because there is a constant supply of mercury vapor making its way from your mouth into your body. Here is a quote from <a href="http://www.mercuryfreenow.com/layperson/symptoms.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Mercury Free Now</span></a>: <br />
<br />
"<em>Mercury is the most poisonous, non-radioactive, naturally occurring substance on our planet. There is no safe level of mercury because even one atom of it in your body is doing some harm to it. There is no debate about the toxicity of mercury and every knowledgeable scientist and health professional understands how poisonous mercury is. Yet even today the American Dental Association (ADA) and pro-amalgam dentists who support its insane, logic defying position, continue to say that these fillings are perfectly safe and are not a health hazard</em>."<br />
<br />
I received my filling back in the spring of 2011. I felt like I was talked into something I knew I didn't want in my mouth. It was in the spring of 2012 that I started battling fatigue, followed by anxiety, adult acne, and some other health issues. Were these all the result of mercury poisoning from one tiny filling in my mouth? Maybe not, but I wanted it out once I learned the truth about silver fillings. You can check out the <a href="http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/09/04/mercury-poisoning-from-silver-fillings.aspx"><span style="color: #38761d;">Mercola</span></a>,<a href="http://iaomt.org/information-gallery/fun-facts/"> <span style="color: #38761d;">IAOMT</span></a>, or <a href="http://dentalwellness4u.com/mercurydetox/poison.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Dental Wellness</span></a> website for more info regarding mercury poisoning from silver fillings!<br />
<br />
I learned something very important in the midst of researching about having my filling removed...you MUST go to a dentist who will follow a very safe protocol for removing the filling WITHOUT exposing themselves or you to breathing or ingesting mercury vapor or particles. I chose Dr. Williamson of <a href="http://centerpointedental.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Centerpointe Dental</span></a>, who follows the IAOMT safety protocol (International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology). If you have silver fillings that you would like to have removed you can find a dentist in your area who follows the IAOMT safety protocol by clicking <a href="http://iaomt.org/find-a-doctor/search-for-dentist-physician/"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is what my dentist and assistant wore to protect themselves from inhaling any toxic vapors! You don't see that everyday!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQeXI5Q7LhSbjc_J7REpFC9QKAwwBLGzGatVTH8_03uMiPpISDeQPn11ptjBjxkHlGlCOm-UgvWaGmnvcT7AH5kEaSBV92OEja2nSB4OOcbqVLc6MdbhntniWxLSNUU0XmrJLhYXARfjN/s1600/IMG_4049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQeXI5Q7LhSbjc_J7REpFC9QKAwwBLGzGatVTH8_03uMiPpISDeQPn11ptjBjxkHlGlCOm-UgvWaGmnvcT7AH5kEaSBV92OEja2nSB4OOcbqVLc6MdbhntniWxLSNUU0XmrJLhYXARfjN/s1600/IMG_4049.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Below is a photo of my mouth. Up at the top of the photo is the oxygen mask I wore to insure I was breathing in clean air. The blue sheet is called a "rubber dam" and is a protective measure so that you don't ingest any particles during the removal process.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2khYCoMLWEbDAOSFmBSryPbw0fe7-mse25NsCnE4rKi3inyWHtdO8NXYD4W7RQH6be4g2rGXU4_bXgj64LhIwJe7Gn70uyNnXjlozQw8GbDnZm2kYGL_XngfgGpQY_ZGI3UQwJY4oEQl/s1600/IMG_4050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2khYCoMLWEbDAOSFmBSryPbw0fe7-mse25NsCnE4rKi3inyWHtdO8NXYD4W7RQH6be4g2rGXU4_bXgj64LhIwJe7Gn70uyNnXjlozQw8GbDnZm2kYGL_XngfgGpQY_ZGI3UQwJY4oEQl/s1600/IMG_4050.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Everything about my experience with <a href="http://centerpointedental.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Dr. Williamson</span></a> was great. I am so glad to have the filling out!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now onto week 4 of my <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a>....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today marks 4 weeks since I began this 6-8 week cleanse! I have to <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/could-it-be-candida"><span style="color: #38761d;">retest my spit</span></a> over the next 3 days. This morning there was some slight sinking but definite improvement. In the case of my saliva still sinking, I continue with my anti-fungal rotation for another 16 days before moving onto phase 2. In phase 2 I will stop the 4 anti-fungals and switch to a product called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000UBCKIY/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000UBCKIY&linkCode=as2&tag=thehomeschojo-20&linkId=WHCKCLMD2WJGDOEJ"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candicid Forte</span></a>. I will also switch my probiotic to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JLK7M6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000JLK7M6&linkCode=as2&tag=thehomeschojo-20&linkId=ENOKHYCIF7LOKCPL"><span style="color: #38761d;">OrthoBiotic</span></a>. There are some other suggestions in the cleanse as well for adding in products to help heal the lining of the gut and additional support for adrenals. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am looking forward to being done with this cleanse, but honestly, I will probably stick to eating very similar to this 80% of the time...and the other 20% is room for some special treats and of course my all time favorite...Thai Food (which is known to be high in sugar if eating out). Also I absolutely can not wait to begin putting a frozen banana back in my smoothie....I am convinced that is what makes a smoothie taste so good!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is what a typical day on this cleanse might look like for me:</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First thing in the morning - drink my sludgy "cocktail" of <a href="https://healthforce.com/index.php?aff_id=1489"><span style="color: #38761d;">bentonite clay</span></a>/<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003QJ8CSE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003QJ8CSE&linkCode=as2&tag=thehomeschojo-20&linkId=PRC5O3WYHTYMGCTJ"><span style="color: #38761d;">food grade diatomaceous earth</span></a> mixed in water each morning. Followed by another glass of pure water.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
8am - Drink a green smoothie (almond milk, spinach, blueberries, chia seeds, flax seeds, coconut oil, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004L3VLFK?ie=UTF8&creativeASIN=B004L3VLFK&linkCode=xm2&tag=thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">pumpkin seed protein powder</span></a>, <a href="https://healthforce.com/index.php?aff_id=1489"><span style="color: #38761d;">Vitamineral Greens</span></a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005KG7EDU/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005KG7EDU&linkCode=as2&tag=thehomeschojo-20&linkId=BVG4VMUGCW7SZ2OB"><span style="color: #38761d;">Gelatin</span></a>, and some water). Take my anti-fungal supplement.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10am - This could vary from leftovers, to a few slices of lunch meat (sugar free), to some organic Applewood turkey bacon with some eggs.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
12pm - An organic Applewood turkey burger, sweet potato, and some sautéed veggies. Take my anti-fungal supplement.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2 pm - a handful of Beanitos chips and almonds/cashews</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5:30 pm - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0046IGR0E/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0046IGR0E&linkCode=as2&tag=thehomeschojo-20&linkId=6654WCRPEYX5PME5"><span style="color: #38761d;">Brown rice pizza crust</span></a> (sugar free/yeast free) with organic pizza sauce (sugar free), organic pepperoni (sugar free), spinach, & bell peppers. Take my anti-fungal supplement.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Bedtime - take my probiotics (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002HSK5PS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002HSK5PS&linkCode=as2&tag=thehomeschojo-20&linkId=NUELDFGG6N7JSI2Y"><span style="color: #38761d;">Saccharomyces Boulardii</span></a>)</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
**Notice I specified "sugar free" by many of the foods I listed above. Sugar is in everything so if you are trying to limit/avoid it you really have to READ LABELS!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am pressing on and entering my 5th week of this cleanse. Looking forward to sharing with you again next week!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some great videos to check out: <a href="http://fitlife.tv/diy-48-second-test-for-candida/"><span style="color: #38761d;">48 second test for candida</span></a>, <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/elevateyourenergy/2013/04/30/kick-candida-for-good-with-christa-orecchio"><span style="color: #38761d;">Blog talk Radio</span></a> or <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/could-it-be-candida?searched=candida&advsearch=allwords&highlight=ajaxSearch_highlight+ajaxSearch_highlight1"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Whole Journey</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are the links if you missed my previous posts for the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a> series: <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-intro.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Intro</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 1</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-2.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 2</span></a>, & <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-3.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 3</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*I am an affiliate for some of the links included in this blog series, which means, if you click on them and make a purchase, I will receive a commission.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="left">
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-29340021336384062382014-07-28T19:06:00.000-07:002014-08-02T16:23:29.229-07:00Candida Cleanse - Week 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTRVGA9FH-j343tlfR7UR2S5NfLl8Yvd_GrpPRfY9gCkacmANLD5BEMf_YKmhjdgIzt4tOuYR26VyOxuOWAX9E0KUbEg1EkAjhWStlRcStk4e6teKobaHALMyRuxK8ArkLUM9AZ63Kt25/s1600/345d101813f83bf40c3536fbc474ba2f%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTRVGA9FH-j343tlfR7UR2S5NfLl8Yvd_GrpPRfY9gCkacmANLD5BEMf_YKmhjdgIzt4tOuYR26VyOxuOWAX9E0KUbEg1EkAjhWStlRcStk4e6teKobaHALMyRuxK8ArkLUM9AZ63Kt25/s1600/345d101813f83bf40c3536fbc474ba2f%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last week I gave one simple tip for changing and improving your health...drinking more water throughout the day!! Aim to drink at least 1/2 your body weight in ounces. So if you weigh 150 pounds, than you would want to aim for 75 ounces of water per day! I use a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004C3LVXQ?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B004C3LVXQ&linkCode=xm2&tag=thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Lifefactory</span></a> glass water bottle to make sure I am getting water even while on the go!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today I want to give you another very simple way to make small changes in the right direction. The focus doesn't need to be on what you CAN'T have...it's about simply adding in more of the GOOD stuff and this will eventually push out more of the BAD stuff. One way to do this is to add in a delicious green smoothie every morning! And Yes the green color would be from veggies not green skittles!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.delightedmomma.com/2013/03/the-best-low-carb-green-smoothie.html"><img alt="http://www.delightedmomma.com/2013/03/the-best-low-carb-green-smoothie.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOWfstwL0c21sZZ-CtnJm1llRkiGB9pxKGha-kYpfQ3_ZUnN4vpYQpOgHN0jgU7yUStTuVPBNUod1HTo6kQrz9s78YKV9Mos1pkgJu2FIY-U9AbN7B_hi0OmbR4o2EXJIhcc_t-jYw27_/s1600/699659e3084d59f3f2ec7b7b54a4dfce%5B1%5D.jpg" height="640" title="" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.delightedmomma.com/2013/03/the-best-low-carb-green-smoothie.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Green Smoothie</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are unlimited recipes and ideas when it comes to making a green smoothie. But here are a few tips:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>START WITH THE BASE</strong>: Almond Milk, Rice Milk, Coconut Water, Filtered Water, Green Tea (1-2 cups liquid)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>CHOOSE YOUR GREENS</strong>: Kale, Spinach, Collard Greens, Bok Choy, Beet Greens (1 cup)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>CHOOSE YOUR FRUIT</strong>: Bananas, Berries, Mango, Pineapple, Apple, Pear, Peach, Melon (1-2 cups, Some frozen fruit is great to help the smoothie to be chilled)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>SUPERCHARGE IT</strong>: Chia Seeds, Flax Seeds, Coconut Oil, Nut Butter, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0037ZUTK6?ie=UTF8&creativeASIN=B0037ZUTK6&linkCode=xm2&tag=thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Powdered Greens</span></a>, <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/whats-in-your-protein-powder-video?searched=protein+powder&advsearch=allwords&highlight=ajaxSearch_highlight+ajaxSearch_highlight1+ajaxSearch_highlight2"><span style="color: #38761d;">Protein Powder</span></a>, Cinnamon, Spirulina, or Maca Powder (3-4 Tablespoons of combination of them)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>MAKE IT SWEETER</strong>: Honey, Stevia (1-2 drops), Maple Syrup, Chopped Dates, Coconut Palm Sugar (Amount: whatever your preference, if you have fruit though you won't really need any other sweetener)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If none of the fruit is frozen you can add in some ice cubes! Blend and enjoy!! And if you live a very busy life and want to save yourself time in the mornings, add your greens, fruit & vegetables to freezer bags and make enough for your week (or month) in advance!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQo6EyJN8cAbG7LfKZnt9dYj2GH3bjz2FjEKl-Lo6UFhOvuJSh3Uf-KU3nFBLepZPgwqiO4zl9Lj6dUP4LudBLgNsyKOg_kgVc46weFUrPUdu8AmhTjge4vdBSJNNL09KnNTsa7oJhEui/s1600/1ea15f145af0c38393e8464e39b4e813%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQo6EyJN8cAbG7LfKZnt9dYj2GH3bjz2FjEKl-Lo6UFhOvuJSh3Uf-KU3nFBLepZPgwqiO4zl9Lj6dUP4LudBLgNsyKOg_kgVc46weFUrPUdu8AmhTjge4vdBSJNNL09KnNTsa7oJhEui/s1600/1ea15f145af0c38393e8464e39b4e813%5B1%5D.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.slpreppystyle.com/2012/03/pre-made-fresh-veggie-fruit-smoothies.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Pre-Made Smoothies</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So now onto my 3rd week of the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a>....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm definitely getting into a groove. I make my green smoothie every morning, which is more greens than fruit/sweet right now...so not incredibly delicious but full of really good things for me! I am usually eating a small meal/snack every 2-3 hours. I was having a sweet craving pretty bad one of the days so made some <a href="http://www.thecandidadiet.com/coconut-almond-no-bake-balls/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Coconut and Almond No Bake Balls</span></a>. The batch made about 8 balls so I stuck them in the fridge so I can have one each day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And I'm sure you will all be happy to know I am having more regularity, which is so important when doing something like this! I started adding flax seed to my smoothies in the morning which may be a contributing factor. I also have been adding in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001G7QELU?ie=UTF8&creativeASIN=B001G7QELU&linkCode=xm2&tag=thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Triphala,</span></a> which is an Ayurvedic herb for gentle, natural, and effective relief of constipation. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have just a little over a week more for PHASE 1 of my cleanse. I will be doing another spit test to see if there is any improvement. If so, then I will move onto PHASE 2 and if not I will continue with PHASE 1 for another few weeks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am pressing on and entering my 4th week of this cleanse. Looking forward to sharing with you again next week!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some great videos to check out: <a href="http://fitlife.tv/diy-48-second-test-for-candida/"><span style="color: #38761d;">48 second test for candida</span></a>, <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/elevateyourenergy/2013/04/30/kick-candida-for-good-with-christa-orecchio"><span style="color: #38761d;">Blog talk Radio</span></a> or <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/could-it-be-candida?searched=candida&advsearch=allwords&highlight=ajaxSearch_highlight+ajaxSearch_highlight1"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Whole Journey</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are the links if you missed my previous posts for the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a> series: <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-intro.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Intro</span></a>, <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 1</span></a>, & <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-2.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 2</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have added a new feature to my blog: <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Healthy Shopping</span></a>! You will find it as a tab along the top of my page. There you can find products I use and/or recommend for healthy eating, healthy kitchen, healthy reading, healthy supplements, healthy skin, healthy bathroom, and homeschooling!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*I am an affiliate for some of the links included in this blog series, which means, if you click on them and make a purchase, I will receive a commission.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-5476466027166479662014-07-22T10:22:00.000-07:002014-08-02T16:26:50.471-07:00Candida Cleanse - Week 2I recently watched a documentary called "<a href="http://www.fatsickandnearlydead.com/about.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead</span></a>". The movie follows a 310 pound man, Joe Cross, as he commits to only drink fresh fruit and vegetable juice for 60 days. His goal was to lose 100 pounds, heal his body of a debilitating autoimmune disease, and to wean off a long list of steroids & medication prescriptions. Joe had been to countless doctors yet found no true help or healing and so he took matters into his own hands. What he did to take back his health and his life was definitely extreme, but very inspiring!<br />
<br />
I have said it before and I will say it again...if you are facing any health issues you need to #1-Pray that God would lead and guide you along and give you wisdom. #2 - Find a doctor/holistic practitioner that is a right fit and who is doing more than just throwing a prescription your way. #3-You must be proactive and take responsibility/ownership for your lifestyle, diet, and choices that impact your health.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3XyADhxOqkB9rkci3IPccihEXTVOcH5nQ-fMUIJtwrVcqmccBDPOFBYXM6ImqChKzMa_fqUH9VNpyZ2M9bkBR_LhifsexMTsMgNPaQNB9yvgDOsCDn6Q9DVRrG0eRWKfLd7eaIEcw5ZN/s1600/7d6ee95f50c61c24f0232d237a8bbac2%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3XyADhxOqkB9rkci3IPccihEXTVOcH5nQ-fMUIJtwrVcqmccBDPOFBYXM6ImqChKzMa_fqUH9VNpyZ2M9bkBR_LhifsexMTsMgNPaQNB9yvgDOsCDn6Q9DVRrG0eRWKfLd7eaIEcw5ZN/s1600/7d6ee95f50c61c24f0232d237a8bbac2%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
Making changes, especially to your diet, can drastically improve your health and well-being. However, it can certainly feel overwhelming. So I want to challenge you by making one very simple change.... start drinking more water and less sugary sodas, lattes, energy drinks, sweet tea, alcohol, or whatever else you might be drinking. When you wake up in the morning, drink a glass of water with 1/2 squeezed lemon juice. Then have a goal to drink at least half your body weight in water each day. My goal is 75-80 ounces of water each day, which is more like 65% of my body weight. You want the purest water possible. We purchased a <a href="http://www.berkeyfilters.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Berkey</span></a> water filter and I absolutely love it and can taste a huge difference. Actually it's not what I taste...it's the absence of any taste. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/100768110385963749/"><img alt="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/100768110385963749/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-iRaP-JQ7du3kXXwJteVBnq8hjxASUZ0IX6SrFjOBc1El0XK6EXGL3WMoBJ-rt7y3nN4bQsQhUH0zQLibB8mwWDpomEWk9DfkW-_obC1nQ8EPG9pY-z7x4jWghSkmrHx3_CoIAhIWJ3x/s1600/f3a6ad29860a6961a3523e209a931377%5B1%5D.jpg" height="640" width="492" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have just finished up the 2nd week of the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a>. Last week I shared how my blood sugar felt low and I felt "off". I was questioning whether or not I should move forward with this cleanse.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I evaluated things and knew I was eating plenty, well, and regularly so I made the decision to persevere through the challenges (as there will be struggles, adjusting, and detoxing in any cleanse or diet change). One addition I made was to add in sweet potatoes, something I hadn't eaten the week prior. They are one of nature's "perfect foods" and have double the amount of fiber as white potatoes. They cut sugar cravings and help with that afternoon "crash". To learn more about sweet potatoes health benefits, check out <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/fascinating-foods-sweet-potatoes-video?searched=sweet+potatoes&advsearch=allwords&highlight=ajaxSearch_highlight+ajaxSearch_highlight1+ajaxSearch_highlight2"><span style="color: #38761d;">this page</span></a>! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/135459901261907648/"><img alt="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/135459901261907648/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbL_1rY3NK1qvh8MFoAh4gIqsFqUMO1I_zfuWBYlBoeL0MCRkaC4QC_eOPUnPpRP5gqoEW41hLQ4tRi4y9EdHhZ2zuOv3-j51gSo-MFaevJQlPuMgkKj0F9y82F83kywkLE5Ercy3au-s9/s1600/579b9e77f838df7b8ba66ef13c511761%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I would say this second week has been much better than the first in some ways. I'm not having that feeling like my blood sugar is low. So glad for that! I am feeling tired/fatigue and taking a short afternoon nap most days. That is one area I am really hoping to see change in....more all around energy. Also prior to the cleanse I was having 2-3 normal bowel movements every day (which is exactly what we should be having) and lately I am only having 1 each day. Part of the cleanse regimen is drinking a class of water first thing in the morning with 1tsp <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003QJ8CSE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003QJ8CSE&linkCode=as2&tag=thehomeschojo-20&linkId=PRC5O3WYHTYMGCTJ"><span style="color: #38761d;">food grade diotmacous earth</span></a> and 1 tsp <a href="https://healthforce.com/index.php?aff_id=1489"><span style="color: #38761d;">bentonite clay</span></a> (I use Zeolite from Health Force), followed by lots and lots of water. This can definitely cause a person to experience constipation. You need to make sure you are staying regular so you can flush out the candida & toxins. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am pressing on and entering my 3rd week of this cleanse. Looking forward to sharing with you again next week!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some great videos to check out: <a href="http://fitlife.tv/diy-48-second-test-for-candida/"><span style="color: #38761d;">48 second test for candida</span></a>, <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/elevateyourenergy/2013/04/30/kick-candida-for-good-with-christa-orecchio"><span style="color: #38761d;">Blog talk Radio</span></a> or <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/could-it-be-candida?searched=candida&advsearch=allwords&highlight=ajaxSearch_highlight+ajaxSearch_highlight1"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Whole Journey</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are the links if you missed my previous posts for the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a> series: <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-intro.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Intro</span></a> and <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">Week 1</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have added a new feature to my blog: <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Healthy Shopping</span></a>! You will find it as a tab along the top of my page. There you can find products I use and/or recommend for healthy eating, healthy kitchen, healthy reading, healthy supplements, healthy skin, healthy bathroom, and homeschooling!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*I am an affiliate for some of the links included in this blog series, which means, if you click on them and make a purchase, I will receive a commission.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-26976878873799655632014-07-11T20:26:00.000-07:002014-07-18T21:36:21.117-07:00Candida Cleanse - Week 1<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Last week I ended my post by stating how important it is that we seek the Lord, for His wisdom & guidance, as we strive to figure out the root cause of health issues we are experiencing.</strong> The reality is for any one ailment there are going to be countless different suggestions and protocols on what you should do, take, eat, etc... Many times those messages can be contradictive. That is where wisdom is so important, because it can be a confusing and overwhelming task trying to know which steps to take, and navigate your way to better health. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jrqBtiAt3e6-AMtGobNLK8hCmfgFW0x7KAi2dAC2YvtdIGE5wPTNE6gG0c6WP0A5T6lcGnzyy2FWHiEWlFGhuv-Ajc4QWiXMeE21aNp1JpRixe25vVZ-tve9J_RYiXdpbneQFvZ6FsVL/s1600/d00ac0620f7e2f5bc428506d0837bdc8%5B2%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jrqBtiAt3e6-AMtGobNLK8hCmfgFW0x7KAi2dAC2YvtdIGE5wPTNE6gG0c6WP0A5T6lcGnzyy2FWHiEWlFGhuv-Ajc4QWiXMeE21aNp1JpRixe25vVZ-tve9J_RYiXdpbneQFvZ6FsVL/s1600/d00ac0620f7e2f5bc428506d0837bdc8%5B2%5D.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<strong>I think one of the areas we need the most wisdom is in choosing the right practitioner.</strong> This can make all the difference in the world. I can't tell you how many times I have left a doctors visit feeling so discouraged, upset, or in tears. I didn't feel heard, I didn't sense compassion, and I didn't receive any beneficial help or guidance. But I did receive a lovely bill in the mail afterwards! I am now so blessed to have such a kind and caring doctor, who has not only made a difference in my health, but in my oldest daughters as well. <br />
<br />
<strong>If you are trying to get to the root problems going on and your doctor just wants to write you a prescription, run for the hills and never return to them! LOL.</strong> There is a time and place for prescription drugs, however, there are so many other things that need to be addressed to treat the root problems going on in your body. Medications typically just treat the symptoms, come with a long list of side effects, and often the problem is reoccurring. Look for a holistic/naturopathic doctor, which means they "<em>integrate conventional and alternative therapies to treat a patient on all levels. By treating body, mind and spirit, the physician heals all aspects of the disease, not just the symptoms</em>." (source <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/72536-holistic-doctor/"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>) I know too from experience, that even among holistic doctors, there are some whacks out there. You have to "interview" them in a sense and make sure they are going to be a right fit for you and your family and that you feel very comfortable with them!! <br />
<br />
Now onto the cleanse....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/opv2/TripleGirlMama" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://er148.infusionsoft.com/Download?Id=31117&returnTo=http://er148.infusionsoft.com/Admin/myFiles.jsp?tabs_sel=images" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I have just completed (or should I say survived) my first week on the <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a> that I chose to do. <strong>This cleanse is not for the wimpy.</strong> It's not a quick fix, packaged in a nice little box, with a small price tag. It's a huge commitment, time consuming, and costs several hundred dollars. If you are not use to spending time in the kitchen prepping and preparing meals, you better get use to this new way of life, as you and the kitchen are going to become quite close!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>There are many candida cleanses available, so here is why I chose this particular cleanse</strong>: Christa Orecchio, founder of <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Whole Journey Candida cleanse</span></a>, suffered herself from candida for many years. She was raised on antibiotics and was a sugar/caffeine addict as an adult. It took her 3 tries to rid her body of candida. The protocol she followed on her 3rd attempt finally worked and rid her body of the yeast overgrowth. She has used this same protocol over the past 8 years to help hundreds of her clients. Candida, is a nasty booger, and you have to attack it on 3 different levels: diet, anti-fungals, and probiotics. You have to starve the candida (through diet, since it feeds on sugar) and then you have to kill it and get it out of your body (anti-fungals and probiotics). This particular cleanse addresses all 3 of these areas. She provides you with a wealth of information including: 5 hours of webinars/powerpoint presentations, menu plans, lots of recipes, remedies for candida cleanse symptoms/issues, frequently asked questions & answers, information on testing your PH levels, resources for adrenal fatigue, thyroid health, and much more! Christa literally takes your hand and walks you through the process step by step. Although you do not get live, face to face support, it's the next best thing! In my opinion, thus far, it has been worth every penny. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP8fQJ4gD5G4olKmhzgCdF_JhL4NML7_KRUi9LX2b8MLYHtlJF3LasDS6bSpxplI3Thu0410TPsbGhVoaxrN217H1bQITJhhC25A1Wp0AHTQ8bbolBEUGDcH3tvFnMrjcV7A_FgTVu1-G3/s1600/IMG_3455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP8fQJ4gD5G4olKmhzgCdF_JhL4NML7_KRUi9LX2b8MLYHtlJF3LasDS6bSpxplI3Thu0410TPsbGhVoaxrN217H1bQITJhhC25A1Wp0AHTQ8bbolBEUGDcH3tvFnMrjcV7A_FgTVu1-G3/s1600/IMG_3455.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4 Anti-Fungals I am using. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ACNNJS?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B005ACNNJS&linkCode=xm2&tag=thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Olive Leaf</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;">, </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0036THN0M?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B0036THN0M&linkCode=xm2&tag=thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Oil of Oregano</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;">, </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000I4C0H4?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B000I4C0H4&linkCode=xm2&tag=thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Grapefruit Seed Extract</span></a>, and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EJNL76?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B000EJNL76&linkCode=xm2&tag=thehomeschojo-20"><span style="color: #38761d;">Pau d'Arco tea</span></a>.<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>It's a 100% commitment for the entire 6-8 weeks of the cleanse. </strong> There is absolutely no room for cheating or caving in to temptation. If you do, that is 1 step forward and 5 steps backwards...and you DO NOT want that! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My diet consist of eating 40% organic greens and vegetables and 40% organic meats, fish, and eggs. Another 10% is for a few low sugar fruits and nuts, which equals 1 green apple or 1 cup berries for example and 1/4 cup nuts or 1 Tbl nut butter. The last 10% is reserved for complex carbs such as brown rice, quinoa, beans, sweet potatoes. I'm allowed 3 servings per day, and 1 serving would be 1/2 cup cooked brown rice or 1 medium sweet potato for example. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>The 5 most challenging things so far are</strong>: 1) Feeling so limited on what to eat for snacks. I don't think I realized how much snacking I did throughout the day...until many of those options are taken away. 2) Sometimes I'm having to make one meal for myself and a completely separate meal for my family. Although I try to combine the two or use a lot of the same ingredients but tweak mine as needed. 3) There are so many details to remember with this cleanse-what you can and can't eat, supplements at different times of the day, drinking enough water, etc... Thankfully I am a very detailed person and this isn't too big of an issue for me, however, this might feel way too difficult/overwhelming for someone who works full-time outside of the home or doesn't have the personality to do the daily checklist of requirements. 4) Going out to eat...options are pretty limited. I've turned into that very annoying customer who asks all the questions and has to have foods tailored for my needs (No gluten, no dairy, no sugar, no yeast, no fermented foods, no caffeine, nothing fried, no vinegar, no alcohol, no refined carbs, no high glycemic fruits, shall I go on??? LOL) 5) The biggest challenge I am facing is that my blood sugar feels "off" and I am losing weight. I am eating every few hours but I am feeling weak and that my body is lacking something it needs to function properly. I'm also losing weight, which is a great bonus in doing a cleanse like this IF you need to lose weight. I was at a very ideal and healthy weight and people are beginning to take notice and make comments and I don't like that. I want to look healthy not sickly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I keep telling myself this is only a brief moment in time compared to my whole life and it is worth the sacrifice right now! But I need to make sure that I am staying healthy through all of this and not overdoing it. Praying about what I need to do. I need wisdom right now. Stay tuned next week as I give a recap of how week 2 went! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKc80qQVI0cvNE51VbEpYs3xBk_9PTQr6x39HSaTHVgo3XTjaWYuKGbo_ZWu5KecQzWPNTkpHg38bCEvGm2-CxGPA_sictIrRxxD2upKujveP_juCGSKEWY1SZQ4gpbCS_b8xkWd6LzBXQ/s1600/2aef6c10c57e4e974e7772167dc31b92%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKc80qQVI0cvNE51VbEpYs3xBk_9PTQr6x39HSaTHVgo3XTjaWYuKGbo_ZWu5KecQzWPNTkpHg38bCEvGm2-CxGPA_sictIrRxxD2upKujveP_juCGSKEWY1SZQ4gpbCS_b8xkWd6LzBXQ/s1600/2aef6c10c57e4e974e7772167dc31b92%5B1%5D.jpg" height="396" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you missed my Intro blog post to the Candida Cleanse you can go <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-intro.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*I am an affiliate for some of the links included in this blog series, which means, if you click on them and make a purchase, I will receive a commission.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-92046601988782992262014-07-09T17:18:00.001-07:002014-07-22T11:34:23.816-07:00Candida Cleanse - Intro<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEffS4-JkZeh1b0D4B0ZE-JPRqEBUcGnm9zaH2DjErWvy57m-or91R63zPjVvN34hNnVcGjXdI5W3XZXv68vSY-IFjkN8Ukp8PgQlmwVus9iUhuvIqT7kwqnPzGwa6w6224OE6h1BH6aJj/s1600/e0408cc83b6d67d9d0eac8ac515f8fd9%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEffS4-JkZeh1b0D4B0ZE-JPRqEBUcGnm9zaH2DjErWvy57m-or91R63zPjVvN34hNnVcGjXdI5W3XZXv68vSY-IFjkN8Ukp8PgQlmwVus9iUhuvIqT7kwqnPzGwa6w6224OE6h1BH6aJj/s1600/e0408cc83b6d67d9d0eac8ac515f8fd9%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<strong>On Monday of this week (July 7th), I began my first day of a 6-8 week </strong><a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/CandidaCleanse/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Candida Cleanse</span></a>. I will be writing a weekly update on how things are going. Hopefully I can provide encouragement for anyone else who is considering doing something like this or simply wanting to make some changes to better your health!<br />
<br />
"<em>Candida albicans is a specific strain of yeast that lives in the intestinal tract, which can become problematic when it gets out of balance and overgrows. Candida is opportunistic, meaning that it will grow out of balance if your health or constitution has been weakened, typically by using antibiotics. Because non-organic meat contains antibiotics, many of us are consuming them, unwittingly, on a daily or at least weekly basis. Antibiotics kill bacteria – both the good and the bad. So whenever antibiotics are used, we need to repopulate the intestinal flora with good bacteria (probiotics). The good bacteria should outweigh the bad so it doesn’t take over and cause problems. </em><em>Antibiotics can also thin our mucosal lining, leaving us ill-equipped to wrap up pathogens like parasites and transport them out of the body. This can make us vulnerable to all kinds of foreign invaders, and yeast overgrowth. Other contributing factors include excessive sugar, coffee, or alcohol consumption, parasitic infections, and chronic stress.</em>" (<a href="http://thewholejourney.com/could-it-be-candida"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Whole Journey</span></a>)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/309763280590557069/"><img alt="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/309763280590557069/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0W4W8F99pXII820WznvKhQwSD_8FdKP0-pszDTfIYBtFokqOkRnhlq_rI0VPJfyRouP8vupi_Fljig-YpgKg7IrdS4tFccOp2WEMzvplXBcxFa8Uwg4_rEheZCeUVKNU8gQCRTtrJXIPV/s1600/ed354eceaf7f9fd0e72a5c66c924a650%5B2%5D.jpg" height="400" width="372" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
But let me start with a little of my story.....<br />
<strong>While in college, in my early twenties, I contracted a horrible parasite known as giardia. I was absolutely miserable for months and months.</strong> When it was finally diagnosed through a stool sample that I had a parasite, I was put on an antibiotic. By the end of the week I was a mess, laying on my bathroom floor unable to crawl into bed after massive diarrhea and throwing up. I did not finish taking the antibiotics after this. Then in my late twenties/early thirties I got strep throat and again was given antibiotics. In addition, most of my life I have followed the SAD diet (Standard American Diet). <strong>My diet consisted of top ramen, Doritos, soda pop, Rice-a-Roni, Oreo cookies, pizza, macaroni and cheese, doughnuts, ice cream, sour patch kids, bagels, nachos....I think you get the point!</strong> (P.S. I'm referring to a lot of my own food choices I made as a teen/young adult...my mom read this and thought everyone was going to think she fed me horribly as a child! LOL)<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G22shk-ZJ_DCcWr0XDYBjZiE74HQKqNa9iyvMdB-_lllak4zuXL9EHUGUFngwMsYXZpYVMNaK8RhVwYDN_cDzPLvQOp6Oqr7136uRYUZjnRZy9O16QzkSe1QoKJOmdioXEkUJtusqRHn/s1600/fcf505ef485da5b33a7b8f4da73448eb%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G22shk-ZJ_DCcWr0XDYBjZiE74HQKqNa9iyvMdB-_lllak4zuXL9EHUGUFngwMsYXZpYVMNaK8RhVwYDN_cDzPLvQOp6Oqr7136uRYUZjnRZy9O16QzkSe1QoKJOmdioXEkUJtusqRHn/s1600/fcf505ef485da5b33a7b8f4da73448eb%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<strong>All that to say, I don't think my health issues I've been dealing with over the past few years are just accidental or part of getting older.</strong> I have experienced things like severe fatigue, adult acne, night sweats, anxiety, digestion issues/constipation, and at times feeling stressed/overwhelmed with every day life. There is a saying that has become one of my motto's, "Pay now or pay later". If we do not make the effort NOW for our health and well being, we will be paying for it later.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/300826450080698621/"><img alt="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/300826450080698621/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFXgqjGQ2s1o5BKlJ_GFiMGvAjqdcUTtDpqL89J0LJj8nt62FA7WRxZuadGGdffud50inUbaJKEDii-0tliMgZ81HUjulRTxkonZGLwaM7du6Qy6rQsmty0eFSS3mMXd6M-q2gRJ7RDKC/s1600/e16721dc33d6160c3ff4df98aac1bae0%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="396" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>I have come to the realization that one of the greatest contributors to most every ailment, sickness, or disease, stems from an unhealthy gut</strong>. What we put into our bodies truly does matter....you ARE what you eat (this also applies to what you put ON your body). We must view food differently, because it has the potential to bring harm or healing. Unfortunately over the past 60 years there has been a huge change in our food system from an agricultural system to an industrialized system. We are eating foods grown in soil depleted of the vital nutrients and minerals our bodies need because they are heavily sprayed with nasty chemicals. There are so many additives/toxins, we can't even pronounce, listed with the ingredients. And of course one of the greatest horrors of our time...GMO's (genetically modified foods). This is why purchasing organic, when possible, is so important! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/408068416206473167/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/408068416206473167/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kl4ZGPlJuFexr3mzrCo7oLsdD0FRYZ0yvTH9jOzgMb0ZV5snPHg6ZDV5urzFwai9gPRbGCPC3lzOVyd6mDWq-tTwl2FEU3u10w6n7PZ9Ql_OUxtrnNNxPWiL7-iZO9tIoctgDhMEdhmr/s1600/5c78192ec6942ea82c9745b66b673bea%5B2%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<strong>Then there is the issue of antibiotics being handed out left and right, consuming antibiotics through non-organic meat, processed foods, fast food, and another major factor....artificial and refined sugar (which is in EVERYTHING).</strong> Being apart of a fast paced society has impacted how we eat. Gone are the days, for so many Americans, of homemade healthy meals. We want fast, quick, convenient, no prep, and of course CHEAP. Here is a great 20 minute video to watch regarding the evolution of food, click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TX7kwfE3cJQ"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;">.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/475903885595536156/"><img alt="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/475903885595536156/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhspfnHIpYuiU-oSAoNatR1Vn09FNVNNq5NrTadGzdVYiAa1lis6fqOLvwBc8jinmtgk5-zwl63ZALWraHZBBuKquWWuORBX-ZLdXe2Jq8ffUKq3fA9TudxszngZcKeYIgsGW36vr_36vDU/s1600/2264a0b8f53b311775a12f7f51021093%5B1%5D.jpg" height="391" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
My main focus, initially, was on healing my skin. This was the most noticeable of my problems and something I was extremely self-conscious about. <strong>But it didn't take long for me to realize my focus needed to shift, from the external, to healing my body from the inside out.</strong> I began to understand that my acne was my bodies way of telling me there were other things off internally. I began, with the help of a wonderful and caring naturopathic doctor, to address things like adrenal fatigue, detoxing my liver, healing my gut, balancing my hormones, and cleaning up my diet even more...all of which have made a big improvement in my health & my skin. <br />
<br />
About a year ago, my doctor had me do a stool sample, which overall looked good but did show a low level of candida. So based on those results and the fact that I'm not experiencing major health issue, I do not believe my body is over burdened by candida. But I also don't want to go down that road either. We must be proactive with our health. <br />
<br />
<strong>I performed an at home spit test, based on the recommendation of clinical and holistic nutritionist, Christa Orecchio, over at </strong><a href="http://thewholejourney.com/could-it-be-candida"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Whole Journey</span></a>. I did this first thing every morning for 6 consecutive days and each time my saliva sunk to the bottom in a cloudy/milky form. It was after this that I knew, what the next step was in my journey to health.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrh2EiJqg-r_yz8T4yilaZEswroFwwyYtOv6Aacuf3tT3ET9r1MYwyEiNOnE5ipES5HlRiC8c2rKYg9BknPBfHoBiHdJcG_4fjqUasN1WTXXbOvuIfMzHirhOb5gHpBi-yBDiPGCMURVEG/s1600/996775b911e6d90e35d389df2efe3a0a%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrh2EiJqg-r_yz8T4yilaZEswroFwwyYtOv6Aacuf3tT3ET9r1MYwyEiNOnE5ipES5HlRiC8c2rKYg9BknPBfHoBiHdJcG_4fjqUasN1WTXXbOvuIfMzHirhOb5gHpBi-yBDiPGCMURVEG/s1600/996775b911e6d90e35d389df2efe3a0a%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="395" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>As I look back over the past year and a half of my life, I can see how the Lord has guided me along, given me wisdom, directed me to the right resources and to those with more knowledge than myself, and shown me the steps I've needed to take.</strong> Most recently the Lord has led me to the place I am now with taking on candida. Many of the things required for the cleanse have already been in place in my life for sometime now and I give the Lord all the credit for that. Otherwise this cleanse would be incredibly intense. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>Are you struggling with one or more health issues/symptoms</strong> such as: headaches, stomach pain, anxiety, acne, a mental fog, constipation/diarrhea, heartburn, digestive discomfort, or chronic sinus infections? I know what it's like to want answers, to want to feel normal again, to want your energy back, to want the fogginess to lift, and to want the pain to disappear. I am not a doctor and don't pretend to be, so obviously the first bit of advice is to be seen by a doctor (holistic or naturopathic is best in my personal opinion). But the greatest thing you can do is take the time to seek the Lord and ask for Him to impart His wisdom and to direct your steps. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/234890936787273419/"><img alt="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/234890936787273419/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbhQEY2yajdHm0fBqtn0XTR8SqvyBLse_L7IdHW4fXpnfBBQCDc6E2xyIpRugOHz-2Xptm4pu0XacbDi_I1otUGEifBY2Yr_YwsaDPRk88ncNjY4GlQ3CEDZD2Dc6ZlHoxbDaF0xtNmyY/s1600/d4bd1582877ba9236dc49c256dac3a3c%5B2%5D.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you need a fresh start with your health, want to figure out the root cause of your symptoms, learn how to use food as the basis for healing, and have an expert walking you through the process than check out: <a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/opv2/TripleGirlMama/"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Whole Journey 6 week eCourse</span>.</a> You will receive a wealth of information provided by Clinical & Holistic Nutritionist, Christa Orecchio (Whom I absolutely love!!). This is a pretty expensive investment, but if you are serious about making drastic changes to better your health, you won't regret it! It's one of those "Pay Now or Pay Later" decisions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://er148.isrefer.com/go/opv2/TripleGirlMama" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://er148.infusionsoft.com/Download?Id=3161" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stay tuned next Monday as I share more details about the cleanse and how things are going!! Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions! Click <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2014/07/candida-cleanse-week-1.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span> </a>for week 1.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some great videos to check out: <a href="http://fitlife.tv/diy-48-second-test-for-candida/"><span style="color: #38761d;">48 second test for candida</span></a>, <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/elevateyourenergy/2013/04/30/kick-candida-for-good-with-christa-orecchio"><span style="color: #38761d;">Blog talk Radio</span></a> or <a href="http://thewholejourney.com/could-it-be-candida?searched=candida&advsearch=allwords&highlight=ajaxSearch_highlight+ajaxSearch_highlight1"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Whole Journey</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*I am an affiliate for some of the links included in this blog post, which means, if you click on them and make a purchase, I will receive a commission.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G22shk-ZJ_DCcWr0XDYBjZiE74HQKqNa9iyvMdB-_lllak4zuXL9EHUGUFngwMsYXZpYVMNaK8RhVwYDN_cDzPLvQOp6Oqr7136uRYUZjnRZy9O16QzkSe1QoKJOmdioXEkUJtusqRHn/s1600/fcf505ef485da5b33a7b8f4da73448eb%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-34206651750332011612014-07-08T20:45:00.003-07:002014-10-24T16:17:08.713-07:00Constant and UnchangingA few weekends ago my family went on a mini road trip to go visit my dear Grandma who lives about 4 hours away. The moment we pulled up and I started walking into the house from the garage, there was that very familiar smell. I can't really describe it but it's just the same smell I have recalled since I was little. <br />
<br />
Everything about my grandparents home is exactly the same every time I come for a visit. The same pictures hanging on the side of the fridge, the same little stuffed animals sitting up on a little toy rocking chair, the same couch, the same TV, the same grandfather clock that chimes all through the night, the same pictures on the walls, the same dishes, and the same joyful Grandma to greet me with a hug and a kiss. The only thing not the same is that my Grandpa has passed away and his presence is certainly missed.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOMU4V15AxZJ8Ds7ANSS_C2wvRsCf0_pc_TbcmeBuFVb3-WdtrbB5XhHnG7bm5CCi9IEowXB6YxSzWEgqfrFH-jfPKwcdEMiHTo6F-ALX3aJswVJ_Fqooy71tLVqvxhmsU2q4uUdUpKbj_/s1600/IMG_3425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOMU4V15AxZJ8Ds7ANSS_C2wvRsCf0_pc_TbcmeBuFVb3-WdtrbB5XhHnG7bm5CCi9IEowXB6YxSzWEgqfrFH-jfPKwcdEMiHTo6F-ALX3aJswVJ_Fqooy71tLVqvxhmsU2q4uUdUpKbj_/s1600/IMG_3425.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSB_BtV2K4WmmbK4SKjjwPmnrwkwZ4TqbI65iUjMaJXERJD9DQwtQ2EAq6n85TDAXxdXyomP1qP4CLAlrKL7yhgMoziD_1x2l8PXEJv_OjFayoCqtII344HZzT5kKkiZmE17PjNcotpxDc/s1600/IMG_3426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSB_BtV2K4WmmbK4SKjjwPmnrwkwZ4TqbI65iUjMaJXERJD9DQwtQ2EAq6n85TDAXxdXyomP1qP4CLAlrKL7yhgMoziD_1x2l8PXEJv_OjFayoCqtII344HZzT5kKkiZmE17PjNcotpxDc/s1600/IMG_3426.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EBh_H3BgtwRivlzMMzpmWYtP_A3AB7FjOILWIwi70bIsyc6Re2frnWIa-Z_7Lk1D4rZdkWtqYjE1gtd4UA3EF1_cKfA6LxozdVoxfzl39bUno9qZDQE82tkqNCMK8Hmwk2_ZEp90aNoV/s1600/IMG_3427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EBh_H3BgtwRivlzMMzpmWYtP_A3AB7FjOILWIwi70bIsyc6Re2frnWIa-Z_7Lk1D4rZdkWtqYjE1gtd4UA3EF1_cKfA6LxozdVoxfzl39bUno9qZDQE82tkqNCMK8Hmwk2_ZEp90aNoV/s1600/IMG_3427.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXnqObigztFHGRbyRfw2GJbJ9IfUKwNQIzmSUFEd8JlAW9P_N8KlUJTPz2GvwfgTCxSpS38A3JYRvdW2mYKFktN5wbqh8qnfm296-Phtr_59r0k9u_y2CmRnuET24HBG5tUIOFYrcv7NY/s1600/IMG_3428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXnqObigztFHGRbyRfw2GJbJ9IfUKwNQIzmSUFEd8JlAW9P_N8KlUJTPz2GvwfgTCxSpS38A3JYRvdW2mYKFktN5wbqh8qnfm296-Phtr_59r0k9u_y2CmRnuET24HBG5tUIOFYrcv7NY/s1600/IMG_3428.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
There is such comfort in the familiar, the unchanging, the constant. I thrive on those three things. I love routine, a schedule, things planned out on the calendar, and daily rituals. But we all know life doesn't always work this way. Sometimes there are unexpected things that come up, strains in relationships, health issues that arise, a child suddenly feverish, a planned event that gets cancelled, a death in the family, a marriage that feels like it's unraveling at the seams, a child that is leaving for college, oh the list could go on and on. The ground can feel shaky underneath us and we don't quite know what to hold on to. We feel like we are losing our bearings. Or losing sight of what truly matters. <br />
<br />
But just like my sweet Grandma's home being an unchanging place of such comfort...that is our God. He is unchanging, He is constant, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. We can always count on Him. He will never fail us. His love endures forever. His grace is always there. His forgiveness is always available. <br />
<br />
We can find the same peace, joy, hope, strength, truth, forgiveness, healing, love, and comfort every time we open the door to the Lord's house. I don't know about you but I am so incredibly thankful for one thing in my life that I KNOW won't ever change! He is who we can hold onto when life gets shaky and He is who we must keep our eyes fixed on, ALWAYS!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4o3Ik0-HpVp_KDUFzlu91uJhBLbvBHBHEq-ezjAV9xOEXhpmFT5p_rnr_7DvlK964Y33IZuIw1ZOIe5_IiNSyPmLZe3VaO8JAcClKXRDZ9oW3_99h_akJ6ltsbXrawZUl6KyCxZABMln/s1600/6e50cde8ec19dbcaccffae124e5c10df%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4o3Ik0-HpVp_KDUFzlu91uJhBLbvBHBHEq-ezjAV9xOEXhpmFT5p_rnr_7DvlK964Y33IZuIw1ZOIe5_IiNSyPmLZe3VaO8JAcClKXRDZ9oW3_99h_akJ6ltsbXrawZUl6KyCxZABMln/s1600/6e50cde8ec19dbcaccffae124e5c10df%5B1%5D.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5fJtpBspCNk1hFQBQr9Y0rueTYVpMNLl_k2qv7erIaiOdPJkiRBYhfx7OZ2ongnS6Uw_pxiTIaBORMp_XmP1owUbnW1RlSBiTbwfoWv4SqJal0EWjrfizvKfeyy_1o3P_1L-6gkTuK3_/s1600/82dc65e40edd0ffa96594573f60301d0%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5fJtpBspCNk1hFQBQr9Y0rueTYVpMNLl_k2qv7erIaiOdPJkiRBYhfx7OZ2ongnS6Uw_pxiTIaBORMp_XmP1owUbnW1RlSBiTbwfoWv4SqJal0EWjrfizvKfeyy_1o3P_1L-6gkTuK3_/s1600/82dc65e40edd0ffa96594573f60301d0%5B1%5D.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-19648490193362419932014-05-15T09:14:00.001-07:002014-05-15T09:22:32.713-07:00Along the way....I had a very sweet gal message me on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;">Homeschool FB page</span></a>. She shared with me how much she enjoys reading my blog and that it has been such a source of encouragement to her. She noticed I had not posted over the winter and just wanted to see how things were going. She said, "I was hopeful that you were not going to go MIA."<br />
<br />
I've really missed writing on my blog, but so many things have taken precedence, and I have had to set it on the shelf for a while. But after reading the words from one of my blog followers I decided I needed to post something and to let anyone who reads my blog know that I am not M.I.A! I'm here!! I'm living life, being a mom, homeschooling my girls, and learning lots and lots these days.<br />
<br />
So I thought I would share some things I am learning along the way of life....<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><strong><em>I am learning...that when your kids are begging for more of something (that involves learning) to run with it!! </em></strong>Over the past few months, during lunch time, I started reading a chapter a day from the YWAM "<a href="http://www.ywampublishing.com/c-70-christian-heroes-then-now.aspx"><span style="color: #38761d;">Christian Heroes: Then and Now</span></a>" books. So far we have read about missionaries such as: Amy Carmichael, Gladys Alward, Corrie Ten Boom, Eric Liddel, and Nate Saint. This wasn't part of our curriculum for the year, nor was I reading them during our "school" time. It was just for fun! But as I began to open these books and read to my girls I found a wealth of information on history, geography, governments, wars, world events, various cultures, customs, religions, and lives devoted to serving Jesus in whatever capacity He called them to. My girls would beg me to read, and when I finished a chapter, they would beg me to read another! Isn't that how learning should be? I just ordered a ton more of the YWAM books to incorporate in our history for next year. It's stories like these that really bring people, places, and events to life! More than being able to recite their multiplication facts in 10.5 seconds flat or be a spelling whiz....I want my children to have such a heart for reaching the lost...to have boldness, courage, trust, perseverance, a love for others, a servants heart, and a heart of obedience to whatever the Lord might call them to!</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIOWCnlG5QRVNV_hLqHq5E4PvFikXPfgF4S4S1NghAqBUCJy18wnGAbZJfQQuOrZX396He5x0d1Ag1X-zEphIVxfmQuTH57UOwbqKN-EumJgxhddiZvmBk55gGQfSNTmEfU62F0WDwNh8e/s1600/8167ec41ca619ad8addd167ff8d46bce%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIOWCnlG5QRVNV_hLqHq5E4PvFikXPfgF4S4S1NghAqBUCJy18wnGAbZJfQQuOrZX396He5x0d1Ag1X-zEphIVxfmQuTH57UOwbqKN-EumJgxhddiZvmBk55gGQfSNTmEfU62F0WDwNh8e/s1600/8167ec41ca619ad8addd167ff8d46bce%5B1%5D.jpg" height="316" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><strong><em>I'm learning to be comfortable in my own skin.</em></strong> My whole entire life I have been fortunate to have a wonderful complexion, with only a few breakouts here and there during my monthly cycle. However, all that began to change at the age of 36, and my skin began to get worse and worse. I found myself so embarrassed and humiliated by my skin. I was in constant tears and felt so devastated. Yet every time I would say something to a friend they would reply with something like, "Andrea, I think you are beautiful and I don't even notice your breakouts until you start bringing it up." Even my husband was still complimenting me and acting as though nothing was different with my face. I began to realize that I needed to let go of my insecurities, focus on loving myself, and be comfortable in my own skin (flaws and all). I even stopped wearing make-up...that was hard but I haven't worn make up (except eye make-up) for the past few months. My skin is making remarkable progress and I will be sharing in another blog post the changes I have made and the things I have been doing both internally and externally that I feel has helped! I hope it will be an encouragement to any other moms out there struggling with adult acne.</li>
</ul>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmaP973fxiuthj4a4Ek5VIPONBGVDByIVtMDpbxSjo5YAKbiRwSdWWSgBEFIt8bTi2OogJpZBGxQ95IUZEeHPfzLlY1wzDyJMLgwCixE6d8LWPb_ky2BeogmvOXlmLqRCK9o_dZQMfpPQE/s1600/25e2784bfa515ed6681e331888508b48%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmaP973fxiuthj4a4Ek5VIPONBGVDByIVtMDpbxSjo5YAKbiRwSdWWSgBEFIt8bTi2OogJpZBGxQ95IUZEeHPfzLlY1wzDyJMLgwCixE6d8LWPb_ky2BeogmvOXlmLqRCK9o_dZQMfpPQE/s1600/25e2784bfa515ed6681e331888508b48%5B1%5D.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li><strong><em>I'm learning that God's timing is always perfect</em></strong>. A few years ago the Lord put a vision on my heart for a way to minister more to the moms at the homeschool co-op I attend. My vision was for ladies to gather during their hour off (there are 3-1 hour long classes at the co-op and every parent helps or teaches 2 out of the 3 class hours and then has 1 hour off). The Lord put it on my heart to call it REFUEL time (a time to be Refreshed, Encouraged, Friendships made/strengthened, Unity, Equipped, and Laughter). And I also wanted to give different ladies opportunities to share something from their life, perhaps a trial or hardship they walked through, a way the Lord provided in their life, a blessing they experienced, or a way they have grown in their faith. To make a long story short, this idea was not made a reality until this last session of our co-op. The main leader of the co-op contacted me and asked me if I would want to oversee the hour off time. When I shared my vision with her, she had goose bumps, and told me this is what the Lord had put on her heart as well! We just finished up the 10 week session and the REFUEL time was amazing!! </li>
</ul>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5guPvPfjoEs7oTmou0d3lahn03IKuz5GgasxwUeFM0djSoliCVNHRO2aaZWcPT9Uy2eqQMIL-MZ-amzLijoMg-EA9EZt3bA2fC6q4miiu7SatpL2Ulr8KA4gegQMyMO9jwsXCVafPDlwA/s1600/4ddc6dd1af02bbb6d7f20ebad3e680f8%5B2%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5guPvPfjoEs7oTmou0d3lahn03IKuz5GgasxwUeFM0djSoliCVNHRO2aaZWcPT9Uy2eqQMIL-MZ-amzLijoMg-EA9EZt3bA2fC6q4miiu7SatpL2Ulr8KA4gegQMyMO9jwsXCVafPDlwA/s1600/4ddc6dd1af02bbb6d7f20ebad3e680f8%5B2%5D.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li><strong><em>I'm learning to let go, even to some really good things</em></strong>. My husband started a new job last May. After 17 years with the same company, he was laid off, and they were going to be closing down the office/warehouse he had worked out of all those years (He was the only US employee for this Canadian company). His new job came within days of being laid off and he was able to stay in the same office/warehouse and was paid quite a bit more than his previous job. However, this job requires a lot more travelling. So when your "partner in crime" isn't home as often, it changes day to day life a lot. Things that I could normally be apart of, became harder to do. I had signed up for a half marathon race and quickly realized I couldn't put in the time to train, so I had to drop out of that race. I love to plan monthly "Mom's Night Out" events and had to let go of this as well. I love to run outdoors and have had to revert to using my treadmill in the garage. And of course I've had to let go of blogging regularly. I am so tired after an entire day taking care of kids, that I tend to go to bed immediately after tucking them in (Yes I know I am turning into an old lady!). But in the midst of letting go, I've also learned to cling more to God. I love spending time with friends, running, and blogging...but He is the true source of joy and hope in my life!!</li>
</ul>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEBBOIMOXJCJ1vP0vrBt2Ark91ZfYN2qe-4PWb2QzomzIM1h-PQsgIOImdFNybw5QTp4ZgDBECD6GmnH2skN4wilhO0w3CZf5OAxuhEEqslwksDXVqXfruGFiA_1gZr-ILPf8N8Yaw9KJ/s1600/1685ea681f806cbda880bc2629c1a18f%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEBBOIMOXJCJ1vP0vrBt2Ark91ZfYN2qe-4PWb2QzomzIM1h-PQsgIOImdFNybw5QTp4ZgDBECD6GmnH2skN4wilhO0w3CZf5OAxuhEEqslwksDXVqXfruGFiA_1gZr-ILPf8N8Yaw9KJ/s1600/1685ea681f806cbda880bc2629c1a18f%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li><strong><em>I am learning...God wants to use me, imperfections and all, to impact the lives of others</em></strong>. I still have moments when I feel like a failure as a mom or a human being. I fall short with my words. I struggle to be that example I desperately want to be to my kids. I get impatient. I feed my kids hot dogs or frozen pizza sometimes...I mean literally just that with no side serving of fruits of veggies. LOL Sometimes my joking or sarcasm goes too far and I feel regretful. I get upset with my husband and handle my hurts with anger. But even in the midst of my flaws, God chooses to use me, ME! I am blessed with the opportunity to sit on the couch, most mornings, and read from a children's Bible with my girls and pray for our day. I am able to tell my girls everyday about how loved they are by God and that He has wonderful plans for their lives. I can text a Bible verse to my sister on her way to work when she is bogged down and consumed with hard things. I pray for friends and strive to encourage them whenever they are struggling. I can give out a smile or a hug to someone who really needs it. You see, we'll never have it all figured out, sin & our flesh will have the upper hand at times. We are going to fail but we are not failures. We will fall but we don't have to stay down. You don't have to wait to get your life all sorted out before God can use you. God simply wants a willing heart that says, "Here I am Lord, use me!" </li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HTEEoVyyyKqO_inAL4-hHfo4J9QjNhJDpWjr-D89V7RRMJ2kkzRZ2y8BHTI4jsQI6vHDq4H8oH9WmZz2AeMhTBuRvhNWKlih4e_3vxcNOpAUNYBWFgvtkRWaUt60BvGpx_ZjFalAs22d/s1600/3f5e17cd14faafe24f250d2cfd2153da%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HTEEoVyyyKqO_inAL4-hHfo4J9QjNhJDpWjr-D89V7RRMJ2kkzRZ2y8BHTI4jsQI6vHDq4H8oH9WmZz2AeMhTBuRvhNWKlih4e_3vxcNOpAUNYBWFgvtkRWaUt60BvGpx_ZjFalAs22d/s1600/3f5e17cd14faafe24f250d2cfd2153da%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
<ul><div style="text-align: center;">
What is God teaching/showing you along the way?</div>
</ul>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-39880434488513243782013-11-14T15:01:00.000-08:002015-02-12T23:56:06.412-08:00Run with Perseverance!The evening of October 26th I laid out my very important outfit for the next morning...my black & pink ensemble for my very first marathon! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DOP27J6zNfF3bArrgvWv1Vv-Wyr76XwoCNQLAcuVNGx6cIHoKx0XedBVCk_dEfM6TOswH9zVgppFcbQGYPE_1ssXhspiSaVuYqSc_057Yq4IwwtNREOjNVA9CIAHeiBXzPpJHmFTuwkW/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252840%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DOP27J6zNfF3bArrgvWv1Vv-Wyr76XwoCNQLAcuVNGx6cIHoKx0XedBVCk_dEfM6TOswH9zVgppFcbQGYPE_1ssXhspiSaVuYqSc_057Yq4IwwtNREOjNVA9CIAHeiBXzPpJHmFTuwkW/s320/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252840%2529.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My alarm woke me up at 6:00 am on the morning of the 27th. Ok not really I was awake way before my alarm went off, laying there thinking about the day ahead. I had 3 hours before my race began... a race of 26.2 miles to complete with over 2200 feet of elevation. Not necessarily the best choice for a first marathon but getting to experience this race with my dear friend Rachel (and the breathtaking scenery) was worth it!! I had quinoa with bananas, blueberries, almond milk, and brown sugar for breakfast! Then another banana and a bar in the time leading up to the race. I drank coconut water too!! <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK-PQmnZVAso57fZ53Zc8crl8eGdPg4asZV0VfbFe1uIxN_EBIADlQbCqr7nfwyur_ToJMF9MFV3YdufRaeasDG9m0LLp3kMChjXaEFz0OfUObLqBeZLzSHawTs66C1XAC_aaYqjdMGwlq/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+(22).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK-PQmnZVAso57fZ53Zc8crl8eGdPg4asZV0VfbFe1uIxN_EBIADlQbCqr7nfwyur_ToJMF9MFV3YdufRaeasDG9m0LLp3kMChjXaEFz0OfUObLqBeZLzSHawTs66C1XAC_aaYqjdMGwlq/s400/Columbiagorgemarathon+(22).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at the starting line!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
As we gathered at the starting line I had this moment of fear..."can I really do this?" I reminded myself of how hard I had trained and prepared for this moment and that everything was going to be fine. So much about getting to the finish line is being mentally strong. I had a strategy to go out at a 12 min/mile pace for the first 5 miles, then increase to 11:30 pace up to mile 13, 11:00 pace to mile 20, and then 10:30 pace for the last 6.2 miles. This would give me an overall average pace of around 11:00 minutes per mile and a finish time of around 4 hours and 48 minutes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdsaFb-seL6VFgv682eRnZkhZrpgrSH8Z77g1GuLHArrFRaFw9qQgceqHxGvedLYn3oBScZ_K_2t8ni7YXybI6MdVf4E5P8rwPfLtMEjnLtWRZPnjfSYkIgVJV_iUlTCbioNJA3PrhW01E/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252836%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdsaFb-seL6VFgv682eRnZkhZrpgrSH8Z77g1GuLHArrFRaFw9qQgceqHxGvedLYn3oBScZ_K_2t8ni7YXybI6MdVf4E5P8rwPfLtMEjnLtWRZPnjfSYkIgVJV_iUlTCbioNJA3PrhW01E/s400/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252836%2529.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waving to my family!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkkHG55tUTAjXH3uU3JTuC6BRXXuBtpfD9ZiOhcflkQFjABz0zv_QRnoGrGiOF5Ay_RhUAMJSaKu3uTOk-zEi2Eby6I7iSc1_mJsLwpf6L4LmEH0r3UvLEwbeBRlmE18tYD-VxgygFxyP/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252832%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkkHG55tUTAjXH3uU3JTuC6BRXXuBtpfD9ZiOhcflkQFjABz0zv_QRnoGrGiOF5Ay_RhUAMJSaKu3uTOk-zEi2Eby6I7iSc1_mJsLwpf6L4LmEH0r3UvLEwbeBRlmE18tYD-VxgygFxyP/s400/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252832%2529.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My supportive friends cheering me on and holding up signs!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9uKcOW8MPfUkXc6aHhL-ajQu13F-_oXr7Fv1dOI4zxIpHX4KLvtmzriqVEdDGgx6LtFDtvZxSQGogeNFZB6-tZyVH8Bp651Nm-kQRLUC5V9Yqypv3RWgVV7mbD-kg3QdmJ4mw6t6uoXQ/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252837%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9uKcOW8MPfUkXc6aHhL-ajQu13F-_oXr7Fv1dOI4zxIpHX4KLvtmzriqVEdDGgx6LtFDtvZxSQGogeNFZB6-tZyVH8Bp651Nm-kQRLUC5V9Yqypv3RWgVV7mbD-kg3QdmJ4mw6t6uoXQ/s400/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252837%2529.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A photo at the turnaround point (mile 11.8)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was so blessed to have several friends, my parents, and my girls all there to cheer me on. It was so beautiful out but after the turn around the wind started to pick up, the sun disappeared behind the clouds and it started to rain. I just kept pressing on and on but as I approached the 18 mile marker I was beginning to feel tired. I also knew once I passed the 18 mile marker I would be going further than I had in my training. I passed my group of friends cheering me on and asked them to pray. It was an uphill climb for several miles and I knew it was going to be tough. Later they shared with me that they gathered and prayed immediately, then looked up and saw me running up towards the top of that portion of the hill. <br />
<br />
Between miles 18 and 23.5 I was on a paved trail with no through traffic, so I was without any support from my family or friends. It was raining rather hard at this point, I was running uphill, and my phone died so I had no music to help motivate me. I had forgotten to grab more fuel/food from my friends the last time I had seen them and was out of my electrolyte drink. Basically everything I relied on to help sustain me, motivate me, encourage me and keep me going was taken away from me. <br />
<br />
I remember calling out to the Lord, "You are the only one I have to sustain me and get me through this Lord. Help me to stay strong and keep moving forward. Give me the endurance, perseverance, and right mindset to make it to the finish line." As I continued running I was feeling like I needed to get some carbs in me quickly and suddenly I saw a wrapper on the ground that caught my attention. I picked it up and discovered it was an unopened packet of gummies. I couldn't help but smile..."Manna from heaven" is what I thought of in that moment.<br />
<br />
I prayed for someone to be up at the top of the hill (mile 23.5) so that I could get more food/electrolytes. Sure enough my family was there to greet me and give me what I needed. Now it was the downhill and final miles to the finish line!! As I came down the winding road around mile 24.5 I suddenly heard clapping, cheering, shouting...and saw my entire group of supporters cheering me on. I was filled with such emotion and began to cry. It really gave me that boost to keep going and finish the race.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAPJRNte2hTuwLjVJdXb5j7-Oh8GunkZUUSQwvrQg3bDof7x9pd4oNiZfiSqT-K99SxTLbpzbkKws245MdPykgoLgN0GKqKEyWXe_FtSNlqsWVKETFJ88i4MAyP9KRSPoKZ6m1CU-j7j8/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252864%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAPJRNte2hTuwLjVJdXb5j7-Oh8GunkZUUSQwvrQg3bDof7x9pd4oNiZfiSqT-K99SxTLbpzbkKws245MdPykgoLgN0GKqKEyWXe_FtSNlqsWVKETFJ88i4MAyP9KRSPoKZ6m1CU-j7j8/s400/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252864%2529.jpg" height="321" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My biggest fans!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
What an amazing feeling it was to cross that finish line!! Victory!! Success!! Perseverance!! Relief!! Joy!! I was overwhelmed by so many emotions and so so so thankful to be done! I crossed the finish at 5 hours, 13 minutes, and 27 seconds. A little slower than I had hoped but taking into consideration all the hills I was very proud of my accomplishment!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJirUtnPuLyVd0AOsInxy7_hNl7g-w9HLUoY6sa-wcBwZjvem10uhf3wNZQF7U5ZHj4NQLl7mf3d5p6VLnTycz8nQXdn7tmYhgopEMJN-nQRSx1391k2gN1S_IuqytA7q5bl3ghBjtfxzK/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252858%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJirUtnPuLyVd0AOsInxy7_hNl7g-w9HLUoY6sa-wcBwZjvem10uhf3wNZQF7U5ZHj4NQLl7mf3d5p6VLnTycz8nQXdn7tmYhgopEMJN-nQRSx1391k2gN1S_IuqytA7q5bl3ghBjtfxzK/s400/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252858%2529.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And Rachel did amazing...finishing in 3 hours and 51 minutes! I am so very proud of her and how well she did!! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
A few photos after crossing the finish line!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQ0KijWEhNnOLjBVWttW-y1TQ6wtFJs6xnL0kKPBsQOvZ4cWL8Zd0ZS3yK_I5-QGelF1J82PDIvhZjTBGBOK35lD91KbDYxvMx5WbUkMErBnRsLMiUGjOAoh1UAv5A3C4ec53IJL4HcTM/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252851%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQ0KijWEhNnOLjBVWttW-y1TQ6wtFJs6xnL0kKPBsQOvZ4cWL8Zd0ZS3yK_I5-QGelF1J82PDIvhZjTBGBOK35lD91KbDYxvMx5WbUkMErBnRsLMiUGjOAoh1UAv5A3C4ec53IJL4HcTM/s320/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252851%2529.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXm517UeRRpLEoXAnSMsbHOv-9nGjFszXtEUdXTBdC7AUZrMoJPGF6ubLPusLvaKRr__ULCvE4lAdf7YPzpZj6am_qHYj0wZMSvCBZCdng9pPgPjRzoRYHyOcjdL5JFygpHMoLHCantQK/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252867%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXm517UeRRpLEoXAnSMsbHOv-9nGjFszXtEUdXTBdC7AUZrMoJPGF6ubLPusLvaKRr__ULCvE4lAdf7YPzpZj6am_qHYj0wZMSvCBZCdng9pPgPjRzoRYHyOcjdL5JFygpHMoLHCantQK/s320/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252867%2529.jpg" height="320" width="263" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNIssU6mN17uLNW0r19yHHiroTK144dDXci6SM7iGtQmkPQDMp_38kVMNfCjJ9641pMruzr3FFD2vZkfqnX-Uk85c6u5EDid93FMNCwzugTAgd6SBZJHb5icCapKEUYOlzmTP_TMH-sm3l/s1600/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252870%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNIssU6mN17uLNW0r19yHHiroTK144dDXci6SM7iGtQmkPQDMp_38kVMNfCjJ9641pMruzr3FFD2vZkfqnX-Uk85c6u5EDid93FMNCwzugTAgd6SBZJHb5icCapKEUYOlzmTP_TMH-sm3l/s400/Columbiagorgemarathon+%252870%2529.jpg" height="330" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every gal in this photo is a homeschooling mom!! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am so thankful to have had this experience. It. Was. Hard....but so worth it! Running has so many comparisons to our Christian walk. I didn't just go out and run a marathon. I had to train & prepare my body, mind, and spirit. I had to be disciplined. I had to push through even when it was hard. As a Christian, it's a growing process and requires discipline. We train ourselves to trust God, to lean on Him, to walk in our spirit and not in the flesh, to be humble, to forgive, and so much more. In our life we experience hills, obstacles, rainy seasons, fatigue, and hard times. But there is purpose in every step we take. We can not give up...we must keep moving forward...we must press on and <strong>run with perseverance</strong> the race set out before us!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivIKtYjNFyy7K8v3lpsYMSWl2ZwbIOse3tu3F-uEYUMRIBsFmfKL3xN53J90liDPxZ9pnsswoAhA6ZVXFZzYaILKjFSqzPRSlzm9QgOD_LeraJIC8zO59kl9CTBI72VEarrsBQIN32du7H/s1600/a86a7277057c502538f09d0536606d77%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivIKtYjNFyy7K8v3lpsYMSWl2ZwbIOse3tu3F-uEYUMRIBsFmfKL3xN53J90liDPxZ9pnsswoAhA6ZVXFZzYaILKjFSqzPRSlzm9QgOD_LeraJIC8zO59kl9CTBI72VEarrsBQIN32du7H/s400/a86a7277057c502538f09d0536606d77%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3n54lDEndzPzL7wIY9QWRRsHRr3yk5Euve771rDdTvYl14_WK4I7a4Z-1JdaPOJDOzvUQNnB101Fpa3VlP7YCqXkxzn2rMYwl4dXK6O4t420xfGjj2nbKgfi5UCjbkBST-brhuChi79Np/s1600/188651_129390350553885_1317469037_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3n54lDEndzPzL7wIY9QWRRsHRr3yk5Euve771rDdTvYl14_WK4I7a4Z-1JdaPOJDOzvUQNnB101Fpa3VlP7YCqXkxzn2rMYwl4dXK6O4t420xfGjj2nbKgfi5UCjbkBST-brhuChi79Np/s400/188651_129390350553885_1317469037_n%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am so thankful for everyone who has supported me, encouraged me, and prayed for me during the past few months of training and on race day! A very special thanks to Rachel, Sarah, Anna, Sandi, Mary, Bob, Gracie, and my girls!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-41403385672336773212013-10-02T21:11:00.000-07:002013-10-02T22:15:32.060-07:00Solid Ground<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK22hJZuZzA4d5FF43K2eWgi5G12TIaduj0RRZnk3MNIUNcza_u2X6YtE1S6ghLBXnPKE3nRRUlFrJ6OXwG7pmlS9D4a8eRfQcNJf-7DR5T9ydAvgdUuUxy0G9CXxgRP0HCuZkTTv1WIW9/s1600/1384052_10151674229258240_1206783364_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK22hJZuZzA4d5FF43K2eWgi5G12TIaduj0RRZnk3MNIUNcza_u2X6YtE1S6ghLBXnPKE3nRRUlFrJ6OXwG7pmlS9D4a8eRfQcNJf-7DR5T9ydAvgdUuUxy0G9CXxgRP0HCuZkTTv1WIW9/s400/1384052_10151674229258240_1206783364_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today I dropped my girls off at a friends house so I could go for a run. I started at her house and ran through neighborhoods and on roads that I am not super familiar with. I found myself running downhill for a very long time and ended up on one of the busiest roads in our area. I am not a fan of running with lots of cars and traffic but decided to just keep running. The sidewalk I was running on suddenly stopped and as far as I could see there was construction going on. By this point I couldn't really turn around and the 4 lane highway was not something I was going to attempt to cross. So I ran through the chaos, the mud, the rocks, the dirt, the puddles, the tree limbs, the construction crew, and the cones. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As I ran today on the unstable and muddy ground I thought about people in my life whose lives are so full of chaos, pain, hardship, challenges, addictions, sadness, depression, guilt, anger, brokenness, struggle...they've made a few wrong turns, as we all have, but they haven't found their way to solid & firm ground. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sometimes we make wrong turns in life and find ourselves in a place we never thought or wanted to be. Sometimes hardships and difficulties come, not by our own doing, but as a result of living in a fallen world. Whatever the reason, it can be messy, hard, challenging, and feel like it's never going to end. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><em><span class="text_exposed_show"></span></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thankfully for me on my run today the construction finally ceased and I returned to solid ground and found my way back to where I needed to be! The only way we can recover, the ONLY way we an recover...is by turning to Jesus and clinging to Him through the mess. He will set your feet on solid ground and He will make your path straight!<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWu4S7VdyyPI5juwklqt7U1Ht6rEUiQj3jxEc6KxO5LwfKAZn9wyD8xd9dI6o3uKXmcxMP24sPYpcmvfjS79vkl-r0ITjUcA5N5eEy7mp1u8uKESXlIMV_sjO-Q7pPjj18Im6LLldLQFN3/s1600/dc0c1c9fe8160530ee353d891a477ac1%5B2%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWu4S7VdyyPI5juwklqt7U1Ht6rEUiQj3jxEc6KxO5LwfKAZn9wyD8xd9dI6o3uKXmcxMP24sPYpcmvfjS79vkl-r0ITjUcA5N5eEy7mp1u8uKESXlIMV_sjO-Q7pPjj18Im6LLldLQFN3/s400/dc0c1c9fe8160530ee353d891a477ac1%5B2%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
God doesn't want us remaining stuck in chaos...He is all about seeing people through those difficult circumstances, bringing freedom, healing, redemption, and recovery. A friend, Jeremy, from Bible college shared this quote on his Facebook page and it blessed me tremendously to read it:</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><em>"Jesus helped the woman at the well recover lov<span class="text_exposed_show">e, the woman caught in adultery recover dignity, the blind man recover sight, the tax collector recover purpose, the religious people recover relationship, the sick recover health, the lonely recover friendship, the world recover life and hope.</span></em></strong><strong><em><span class="text_exposed_show"> Jesus is in the business of Recovery!!"</span></em></strong></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVyGjBUv_srz_-KdDtVl3ct-fWtXizPS09nddJz0yOPoZ806-yEpVfWNo58wWXTBFyCk-jB5_l5_xseJllXZMg-PNhZeiHzPZqj6hjYkJ5X3vY532toIHI86HQ2J99JVQgqhoO7fHm8E7/s1600/2a4a6e737093d186c9df84e1c2dad58c%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVyGjBUv_srz_-KdDtVl3ct-fWtXizPS09nddJz0yOPoZ806-yEpVfWNo58wWXTBFyCk-jB5_l5_xseJllXZMg-PNhZeiHzPZqj6hjYkJ5X3vY532toIHI86HQ2J99JVQgqhoO7fHm8E7/s400/2a4a6e737093d186c9df84e1c2dad58c%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1H19dkxEtELesEfhCQ8BkQWUrR6lrDKKZ_jOz-G-GNjfSP0iRbeHUvzkp7YKS665fnvYhDVQBWCtss16Utc5kfUbJcJ6D1Q3dm9-Lfgbc8IRAWChfnH1IuymReBr1zlBbbdRJSx_xbmz/s1600/53b57c4698d0444459933dd26c82b1e7%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1H19dkxEtELesEfhCQ8BkQWUrR6lrDKKZ_jOz-G-GNjfSP0iRbeHUvzkp7YKS665fnvYhDVQBWCtss16Utc5kfUbJcJ6D1Q3dm9-Lfgbc8IRAWChfnH1IuymReBr1zlBbbdRJSx_xbmz/s400/53b57c4698d0444459933dd26c82b1e7%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Lord I lift up anyone reading this who needed to hear these words, whose life resembles the chaos and mess of a construction zone. May you direct their steps and lead them through the chaos and to a place of peace, safety, wholeness, strength, freedom, healing, joy, and a strong & firm foundation in you. Thank you that nothing is too difficult for you. Thank you that you are in the business of recovery. Thank you that you make all things new. Guide and direct them back to solid ground. In Jesus name I pray. Amen"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-25702013887050323312013-09-29T18:06:00.002-07:002013-10-02T21:24:47.021-07:00At my side for 18 miles!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When you are preparing for a marathon and you are down to the wire with only weeks left in your training...you hope and pray nothing gets in the way of your plan and your training. But as we all know life doesn't always go as planned. Life happens! After my 16 mile run on August 31st I began to have some pain in my left knee. Nothing real serious but some tenderness that made me step back and evaluate my running plans. Do I keep moving forward? Do I bring this whole thing to a halt and drop out of the race? I did the only thing I knew to do...I asked the Lord for wisdom, guidance, and of course healing. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am not an expert runner, there is still much I have to learn, but I do try to always listen to my body and back off when needed. So I decided not to make any final decisions but to just take it one day at a time. I iced my knee and took it very easy for a few weeks. This caused me to get very behind in my training. I only had one shot to run my 20 mile run....this big magical number that you are suppose to run before a marathon...and now I knew it would be next to impossible to gain lost time. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then another situation occurred to make running even more of a challenge....my husband had to go out of town for several weeks for work. When he is the one I rely on to watch the girls for my runs...well that really puts a damper on things.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankfully family & friends are coming to my rescue to help and my knee has improved!!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yesterday I ran 18 miles. It is my last long run before the big day. I will not get to 20 but that's OK. My knee did great the entire run. I was also extremely blessed to have my mom watching my girls and my dad riding alongside me the entire time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pLO9VM0gdlL8SRy0bdbeCHK3sMh74aB03DmnGeNUcpGIfdVIRbsJA3TkoLxeaqYxX8-gOTs9otGKMOKE6PaDSsz183qEGh0CQPrRui1VSErxYB_JBQGy3cNhvH3UOhqknjdpKezmQorq/s1600/IMG_1852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pLO9VM0gdlL8SRy0bdbeCHK3sMh74aB03DmnGeNUcpGIfdVIRbsJA3TkoLxeaqYxX8-gOTs9otGKMOKE6PaDSsz183qEGh0CQPrRui1VSErxYB_JBQGy3cNhvH3UOhqknjdpKezmQorq/s400/IMG_1852.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1TYhAvzDdhC2iAg1buLBJ8zkirqIYFTiQVdhw2ZBcB6P_dqGs3B8iDTpl1opXneqHunav0ezjjCabA6MPbuAWZYVONi986OeS_kV6UzzAWXml_giBREUP9cSi10KpKv0q8eBp3jH3JVr/s1600/IMG_1856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1TYhAvzDdhC2iAg1buLBJ8zkirqIYFTiQVdhw2ZBcB6P_dqGs3B8iDTpl1opXneqHunav0ezjjCabA6MPbuAWZYVONi986OeS_kV6UzzAWXml_giBREUP9cSi10KpKv0q8eBp3jH3JVr/s400/IMG_1856.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKMPF1x4ikI53WMtLYVdZF6yInZxdvQgUUeu4p39oG_OlFpoSaat4K5B6K4uM9JnJA8J__EVA52VKoKD4zM3F_uUG5ffPSy1_5wI2GiScV24uR3phFRNpSh33jFUubBBn__SJAzIXtWbj/s1600/IMG_1857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKMPF1x4ikI53WMtLYVdZF6yInZxdvQgUUeu4p39oG_OlFpoSaat4K5B6K4uM9JnJA8J__EVA52VKoKD4zM3F_uUG5ffPSy1_5wI2GiScV24uR3phFRNpSh33jFUubBBn__SJAzIXtWbj/s400/IMG_1857.JPG" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sometimes he was at my side, other times in front of me or behind me. I had total peace knowing he was with me from start to finish! And that was important as I ran a somewhat secluded trail with some sketchy looking men along the way. He carried a backpack and had extra fluids and food I needed during my run. He was there each time I needed his assistance. At one point we were approaching some gals walking and he said, "Serious runner coming through"...and they made way for me to pass and cheered for me! During a moment of silence I thought about how this is such a great picture of how the Lord is in our lives. He is always with us, He goes before us, behind us, and is constantly at our sides. He is our protector, our friend, and he cheers us on and believes in us! Jesus is our bread of life and He quenches our thirst...he provides us with all we need on our spiritual race!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS_DD6q1FIgSiAgaGHHnRFrnv7HTZNN5KsnDBx5cRSAEcfCu5XLJsfBWI3dpbPs3cliTiua0PsoGWaZtdb9PFi3TAbjZrzs4CBO3I4QsLZTuwn7kGk3kSBa7TwTCua3KekUhbUzxFR2oSU/s1600/49f8a373a37fd7d4a0cf4dda48f9dc69%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS_DD6q1FIgSiAgaGHHnRFrnv7HTZNN5KsnDBx5cRSAEcfCu5XLJsfBWI3dpbPs3cliTiua0PsoGWaZtdb9PFi3TAbjZrzs4CBO3I4QsLZTuwn7kGk3kSBa7TwTCua3KekUhbUzxFR2oSU/s400/49f8a373a37fd7d4a0cf4dda48f9dc69%255B1%255D.jpg" width="382" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thought too about how God is a father to the fatherless....because my real dad actually passed away when I was 12 years old and I feel so blessed to have such an amazing step-dad in my life. He has stepped in and taken that role of a father in my life. Thank you Bob for all the many ways you bless my life...and a huge thank you for riding alongside me yesterday!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1lwqE6TKvP2FGGe_43Ro6RqeA46MxKydAcqqnKXTfv2wrlWNaApTu8DaJgsDhovDvTOVzJOuB4cxXKwCSHy47zGvzRKnhVy3b0vcPMfY3osKWFK2f8j1YjkSsKvtSwE6ieZRkMWBMV-C/s1600/981a0a347a97ecf51d03c1be48767e7d%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1lwqE6TKvP2FGGe_43Ro6RqeA46MxKydAcqqnKXTfv2wrlWNaApTu8DaJgsDhovDvTOVzJOuB4cxXKwCSHy47zGvzRKnhVy3b0vcPMfY3osKWFK2f8j1YjkSsKvtSwE6ieZRkMWBMV-C/s400/981a0a347a97ecf51d03c1be48767e7d%255B1%255D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Sometimes it can feel that God is a million miles away and doesn't see us or our circumstances...but the reality is He is with you, every step of the way! He loves you! He is always working on your behalf! He is proud of you! He will never leave you nor forsake you! <br />
<br />
Looking forward to running 26.2 miles in a month with my Heavenly Father at my side the entire way! <br />
<br />
<div id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-30220282837343657712013-09-11T23:28:00.000-07:002013-09-14T20:15:39.081-07:00I've come a long ways from my Top Ramen Days!I have a confession to make...I am a former Top Ramen, Cheese Whiz & Chicken in a Bisket, Taco Bell, frozen burrito, Oreo cookie, and Rice-A-Roni consumer. <br />
<br />
I can tell you I am now a changed woman who over the past 5 years has been on a mission of health for my family! And one of the greatest ways to accomplish health is through the foods we put in our bodies. <br />
<br />
I honestly didn't think too much about the foods I was eating and feeding my family until my oldest daughter began to battle severe coughing issues at the age of 2. She endured weeks and weeks of coughing that would escalate to the point of affecting her breathing. By age 4, doctors diagnosed her with cough induced asthma as well as dust mite & outdoor allergies. The recommendation? Allergy shots, 2 daily inhalers, and allergy medications. <br />
<br />
We live in a day in age where it's all about convenience, fast, quick-fix, and easy. I didn't just want to address the surface issues. I didn't want the quick remedy. I wanted answers. I wanted to get to the root cause. Thankfully a wonderful naturopathic doctor, Dr. O'Leary, made that possible. She wanted to do food allergy testing on my daughter but I couldn't make the connection between food allergies and her coughing issues. So Dr. O'Leary explained to me that 70% of our <a href="http://foodmatters.tv/articles-1/the-link-between-gut-health-and-healthy-digestion-plus-a-simple-sauerkraut-recipe"><span style="color: #38761d;">immunity comes from our GI tract</span></a> (the gut). If your gut isn't healthy you won't be healthy. After running some tests, her recommendations? Gluten free diet, probiotics, fish oil, and a multivitamin to name a few things. This wasn't going to provide a quick fix but a slow improvement to my daughters overall health. <br />
<br />
Fast forward to present day and my almost 10 year old girl is a very healthy kid. She isn't reliant on pills, shots, or inhalers either. She still gets colds/coughs here and there but those severe coughing fits are a thing of the past. I use to battle regular headaches and those are a thing of the past too! <br />
<br />
What you will find in my kitchen is vastly different than years past and I know that has made the difference for all of my families health. I also will insert here there are more changes I'd love to make but it's a process....baby steps, small changes, one step at a time! I have begun to make more things from scratch rather than in a pre-boxed package (though I do have on hand some pre-mixes). I wanted to give you a sneak peek into my kitchen, with the goal to help encourage anyone reading this that wants to make changes, that it is possible. So come along as I give you the tour....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Let's start with my fridge, I just went shopping so it's full!</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJEdzzhRlQpEW8tVp_tb9NgUmbMlZ9aS-paRJbjOOHvQQU3JdBmd4sTYDVeJD8afKjG_Mh9bgLmnZ5In7wRR_yjPEDK-Bq6ujgcRPaui_YsKqTDZDAt80de3tEz-IGnGy73dZnJ-YGESE/s1600/IMG_1721.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJEdzzhRlQpEW8tVp_tb9NgUmbMlZ9aS-paRJbjOOHvQQU3JdBmd4sTYDVeJD8afKjG_Mh9bgLmnZ5In7wRR_yjPEDK-Bq6ujgcRPaui_YsKqTDZDAt80de3tEz-IGnGy73dZnJ-YGESE/s320/IMG_1721.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROmklDFyiWI6AWTBXNDUF8F7kNrevPI2vLXkIA9QAqFUYTStVpdMJ3TlCd4qlxCTeRW347CPIDYxB2wfLeI1hTtwxIE76xOd2at_g0rl7KRqaj8lWhgAFd6l4p3crcHKrkpPg1CUOE5hF/s1600/IMG_1711.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROmklDFyiWI6AWTBXNDUF8F7kNrevPI2vLXkIA9QAqFUYTStVpdMJ3TlCd4qlxCTeRW347CPIDYxB2wfLeI1hTtwxIE76xOd2at_g0rl7KRqaj8lWhgAFd6l4p3crcHKrkpPg1CUOE5hF/s320/IMG_1711.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWgJSGadWMCsIbGzN1xFN8wywF9_RvVNaaVqmBiX_p28rodPbqfsPeyZbM8FuGsSgKdbwy8vrfrlcADwsljgmZlUaOWyukI2IE0v4IPWjLCUNuXexDbxQRV_dtYmvQoT45bliWJ8NQpz2/s1600/IMG_1712.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWgJSGadWMCsIbGzN1xFN8wywF9_RvVNaaVqmBiX_p28rodPbqfsPeyZbM8FuGsSgKdbwy8vrfrlcADwsljgmZlUaOWyukI2IE0v4IPWjLCUNuXexDbxQRV_dtYmvQoT45bliWJ8NQpz2/s320/IMG_1712.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyYQkMdBfcVMB57_sMP57U-qYnxeZWWs8CxNt4gYWJNzOfSCFG9y6zLDJAJpYcTjqzukCCsrkMS4KJFEp8U4_Y3ZDiH76CzmF0ftMjDL8yHfrVaQqf7cBRYXoDodTqxbCKbVJbAzI9wf_6/s1600/IMG_1708.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyYQkMdBfcVMB57_sMP57U-qYnxeZWWs8CxNt4gYWJNzOfSCFG9y6zLDJAJpYcTjqzukCCsrkMS4KJFEp8U4_Y3ZDiH76CzmF0ftMjDL8yHfrVaQqf7cBRYXoDodTqxbCKbVJbAzI9wf_6/s320/IMG_1708.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxO3fAQ3XPKbfruCKh-EI7SyYmIIMVW9E0aFuZ5n6pGYhdpFCFdBfktLejbqsQ0ZrOe19nwBKL7LNnff0GeRrlb0wo8sDcszZKny9ZytgAP4Un7yQdW8YA0YmX6VVInlfLNrERw1JNjdf/s1600/IMG_1750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxO3fAQ3XPKbfruCKh-EI7SyYmIIMVW9E0aFuZ5n6pGYhdpFCFdBfktLejbqsQ0ZrOe19nwBKL7LNnff0GeRrlb0wo8sDcszZKny9ZytgAP4Un7yQdW8YA0YmX6VVInlfLNrERw1JNjdf/s320/IMG_1750.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1BoKGamTHD488wgJyQ1BGhMy0mvAs1rzyI8IZQloKPNrbXHNsQ0S70YLaCI3eenUI6WMTkd1vDkGudADaBZ-4nEVUkyI58e-zRcszKhSof_KO0gWgDf-pVo60Zc5Di0cEhrnGprfuWBw/s1600/IMG_1717.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1BoKGamTHD488wgJyQ1BGhMy0mvAs1rzyI8IZQloKPNrbXHNsQ0S70YLaCI3eenUI6WMTkd1vDkGudADaBZ-4nEVUkyI58e-zRcszKhSof_KO0gWgDf-pVo60Zc5Di0cEhrnGprfuWBw/s320/IMG_1717.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Pkrq9jglnYDeOuc09oSsoeEN6ASahy2sBUm8RsvWnFVp012k6dHOLI2fJRQuLypbKpZskuZV4TE4iAxTCHOOZQPM7gqPqU2tTAhXIy3yff2Md7_to88obST5QSHxaGwQNZ9oryjcsfjt/s1600/IMG_1709.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Pkrq9jglnYDeOuc09oSsoeEN6ASahy2sBUm8RsvWnFVp012k6dHOLI2fJRQuLypbKpZskuZV4TE4iAxTCHOOZQPM7gqPqU2tTAhXIy3yff2Md7_to88obST5QSHxaGwQNZ9oryjcsfjt/s320/IMG_1709.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga49uclLlNpRSBXS3NdZiDz24qE7zjGaiDpIVxefixVVxkc3AqXdGFH_s1DfxySh1Il7buQ6B1CepHOuE6r_r1yHVrmYoD9sBrT30yIEhuXbzO0YiG5vXPHfl7xXsa1HyXbZ02QWYyY2XX/s1600/IMG_1749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga49uclLlNpRSBXS3NdZiDz24qE7zjGaiDpIVxefixVVxkc3AqXdGFH_s1DfxySh1Il7buQ6B1CepHOuE6r_r1yHVrmYoD9sBrT30yIEhuXbzO0YiG5vXPHfl7xXsa1HyXbZ02QWYyY2XX/s320/IMG_1749.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_vNF9mXa3nVYiFyCijz_QQY2-ARCcAkZvjkjzRTt7CceXFN7TXVncoyIriQc1QeyGIt-hPagPG5w8azyhk_GbxAaaoWnB6zqnZBdsh72MTvfIUokGsL8JwLihCyi1tCiCqmYTt6lmdPq/s1600/IMG_1710.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_vNF9mXa3nVYiFyCijz_QQY2-ARCcAkZvjkjzRTt7CceXFN7TXVncoyIriQc1QeyGIt-hPagPG5w8azyhk_GbxAaaoWnB6zqnZBdsh72MTvfIUokGsL8JwLihCyi1tCiCqmYTt6lmdPq/s320/IMG_1710.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMCNhFhhlPlDZEMxADw2xidN0TQ332YPCiZfl8mudbsdzTbSbKjFLdQy8OIvIEfTCcOY9z_-WPuu5lh3lPIJ-2fsFRc8Z7GqFturq34iDZPV1bwwpGm1H_ZlMndU6kiLS7KHC-gX_kjOB/s1600/IMG_1715.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMCNhFhhlPlDZEMxADw2xidN0TQ332YPCiZfl8mudbsdzTbSbKjFLdQy8OIvIEfTCcOY9z_-WPuu5lh3lPIJ-2fsFRc8Z7GqFturq34iDZPV1bwwpGm1H_ZlMndU6kiLS7KHC-gX_kjOB/s320/IMG_1715.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uyjlpbz7YrbXQcNJNNx_noE9LeObwjI2HVbXiD9_SuekGehQbPyyyQYRr_NXLQ88yneBgKDm1tDczrZmy5cUi50BEarkz1gBH1_z7CHBWxhyML3m-QFSk8iFVvmZIrYyBMYjqSbHrkVt/s1600/IMG_1714.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uyjlpbz7YrbXQcNJNNx_noE9LeObwjI2HVbXiD9_SuekGehQbPyyyQYRr_NXLQ88yneBgKDm1tDczrZmy5cUi50BEarkz1gBH1_z7CHBWxhyML3m-QFSk8iFVvmZIrYyBMYjqSbHrkVt/s320/IMG_1714.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpI6XlJ4-q2jWzkNEzMU-IN1lE2J687dqsGsRwwRiE9dqS112Zu5RFUJmj2_wuWtN907L5VfPzAz35S3mvbDaHva07sm5BkzE7q0_AcNbDWTBUhOq6BKS_KSu-LLIlOLoQOMA0Zh-ey4D/s1600/IMG_1713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpI6XlJ4-q2jWzkNEzMU-IN1lE2J687dqsGsRwwRiE9dqS112Zu5RFUJmj2_wuWtN907L5VfPzAz35S3mvbDaHva07sm5BkzE7q0_AcNbDWTBUhOq6BKS_KSu-LLIlOLoQOMA0Zh-ey4D/s320/IMG_1713.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY8cYawPGNgCOB0D2_ZtQ8aqKzi3bNwWgVweBFGg9GScn6fLufxd37EgNYXQERFSdG3T4yA_C7OuOvRDFtX11y371aiFii-mLQSMp1T2w3IJ5jf3dOTwq7ny2sdwoZAzHC0-DavDNV2vAS/s1600/IMG_1716.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY8cYawPGNgCOB0D2_ZtQ8aqKzi3bNwWgVweBFGg9GScn6fLufxd37EgNYXQERFSdG3T4yA_C7OuOvRDFtX11y371aiFii-mLQSMp1T2w3IJ5jf3dOTwq7ny2sdwoZAzHC0-DavDNV2vAS/s320/IMG_1716.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii01FxM-mIvpQsSdFP4LS1vL9domlMBIgjvnD4uaS3zf0dFclDf5KUuWltmznbteNyv8OW9Lya6HKNa6D_3VRYAEEhK2YEv3_rks4y1P_P-LBQd96YTzFh6pN7SpnRAOeGe7AK603dQhcW/s1600/IMG_1718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii01FxM-mIvpQsSdFP4LS1vL9domlMBIgjvnD4uaS3zf0dFclDf5KUuWltmznbteNyv8OW9Lya6HKNa6D_3VRYAEEhK2YEv3_rks4y1P_P-LBQd96YTzFh6pN7SpnRAOeGe7AK603dQhcW/s320/IMG_1718.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAQ7j_vU8F8GLvKUzMgEnS2vnpYkOxfg2_FSYZaVX9zInhCywvPG_bzokreIzUOp6pjBqCS0wiRVzrrR1QPdAt5qd-70LAvrEa3hjf4EPcOkRm3Il5wXIQaG1FbUloB2yniKHENInVcap/s1600/IMG_1720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAQ7j_vU8F8GLvKUzMgEnS2vnpYkOxfg2_FSYZaVX9zInhCywvPG_bzokreIzUOp6pjBqCS0wiRVzrrR1QPdAt5qd-70LAvrEa3hjf4EPcOkRm3Il5wXIQaG1FbUloB2yniKHENInVcap/s320/IMG_1720.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlGr6oU_tzScCd0g5r8teDwydRS35cG2B9YfUu1hz0ddn_5W7R-nh-00z1TtdUc79KeksUfIJp3PHA0BBmsNvQ-y7eguU6I9p_phFxpJ0pll0nR993bULm1VW8pd0EELndHaVa5SVfhqV/s1600/IMG_1751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlGr6oU_tzScCd0g5r8teDwydRS35cG2B9YfUu1hz0ddn_5W7R-nh-00z1TtdUc79KeksUfIJp3PHA0BBmsNvQ-y7eguU6I9p_phFxpJ0pll0nR993bULm1VW8pd0EELndHaVa5SVfhqV/s320/IMG_1751.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0gVIsk_HkYqCaTtT-yPc37NimiXE_7WbWjhS6dB9C1cKVkt1acF0LuaOzhGgeaMsXw7xWzyIygCfE0eE8VNhKctrImibyx7VUFXlFHyPK3riHgAHmM0dmEHvGMkkw7OYVZh-c-c76ThWF/s1600/IMG_1752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0gVIsk_HkYqCaTtT-yPc37NimiXE_7WbWjhS6dB9C1cKVkt1acF0LuaOzhGgeaMsXw7xWzyIygCfE0eE8VNhKctrImibyx7VUFXlFHyPK3riHgAHmM0dmEHvGMkkw7OYVZh-c-c76ThWF/s320/IMG_1752.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #45818e;">My fridge is full of fruits and vegetables. I just invested in a Vitamix so we have been making lots of delicious smoothies! Our eggs come from our own chickens. The</span><a href="http://www.greenpasture.org/public/Products/ButterCodLiverBlend/index.cfm"><span style="color: #45818e;"> <span style="color: #38761d;">Green Pasture Butter Oil/Fermented Cod Liver Oi</span>l </span></a><span style="color: #45818e;">is something I highly recommend for all it's health benefits!</span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<strong><span style="color: black; font-size: large;">What you will find in my freezer/deep freezer:</span></strong> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSnpWcZJzlFkMqV83JDcMC4_DUauN4LA1gvie2jPOnAx1FyypIVCYUMk1B_kzLHciIr7IxlFJD1DPEUnCW3AT5RJJ_DKdla7fPgMJW8IA-1CfMiexmTuMn8Vlw19HkbZq0l1O4tocv3VH/s1600/IMG_1722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSnpWcZJzlFkMqV83JDcMC4_DUauN4LA1gvie2jPOnAx1FyypIVCYUMk1B_kzLHciIr7IxlFJD1DPEUnCW3AT5RJJ_DKdla7fPgMJW8IA-1CfMiexmTuMn8Vlw19HkbZq0l1O4tocv3VH/s320/IMG_1722.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfS4gEgZJ_nNk8Te8w3Nhe4G7LXe8A-6tKbrQHWSTmUrsYQzEL2TbKDIVYw7kHA7NMFKjONsq6WXe8CzNykMWczj4-AjJ-5QG9v5XtIHPLPmCSy3FAWQpJ9JcsZbn2KKv5jhaWI58x0SIt/s1600/IMG_1723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfS4gEgZJ_nNk8Te8w3Nhe4G7LXe8A-6tKbrQHWSTmUrsYQzEL2TbKDIVYw7kHA7NMFKjONsq6WXe8CzNykMWczj4-AjJ-5QG9v5XtIHPLPmCSy3FAWQpJ9JcsZbn2KKv5jhaWI58x0SIt/s320/IMG_1723.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyGCssz2txukniEglqb8cJi9ATGXdOsIGLQz7bRVER7ShRNK8b2Kz5rkKuQH-2B5HRiZZFaTMxAoHdRlzs4L6k8K2iiKQZZaPJq7ncKfI7dcs7ztPBP2P9UV8tlFP8ZlutpBstC9xQKX-/s1600/IMG_1724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyGCssz2txukniEglqb8cJi9ATGXdOsIGLQz7bRVER7ShRNK8b2Kz5rkKuQH-2B5HRiZZFaTMxAoHdRlzs4L6k8K2iiKQZZaPJq7ncKfI7dcs7ztPBP2P9UV8tlFP8ZlutpBstC9xQKX-/s320/IMG_1724.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZY-r3KgdvMpsL5hZXq95yZyfqZUG5QL834FtbWuRlY-UI6th8nRlL4YjWAw7vIeZdGmmOqu0cLc7XSDtseDPHWw_UA4bZ-ct_urRJhJm18O65qkGZ6tgnLFNZEgyO0TOTBL4JQjMpkez/s1600/IMG_1726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZY-r3KgdvMpsL5hZXq95yZyfqZUG5QL834FtbWuRlY-UI6th8nRlL4YjWAw7vIeZdGmmOqu0cLc7XSDtseDPHWw_UA4bZ-ct_urRJhJm18O65qkGZ6tgnLFNZEgyO0TOTBL4JQjMpkez/s320/IMG_1726.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0PyCLo5SdA-XgrbArxRYX2lN3w_f5o1pzg1GWTCL6bNiwLF6_PFMCNYKD1SlGvPpgN3JwlgILembcbF2B1-TA-7ETYD0i2x-IJDQSw1RSsixWzGiI6CgLvjL91HfK2AVo6kTKD_0aI-u/s1600/IMG_1748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0PyCLo5SdA-XgrbArxRYX2lN3w_f5o1pzg1GWTCL6bNiwLF6_PFMCNYKD1SlGvPpgN3JwlgILembcbF2B1-TA-7ETYD0i2x-IJDQSw1RSsixWzGiI6CgLvjL91HfK2AVo6kTKD_0aI-u/s320/IMG_1748.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZl3WdIkNcZRyDCj8v0LcYkMlRRvSX5CJ3rdh5ykLoRJydsp7wrWWO_MS4mUNoxTX35tam2gm2r3Zh-6xk9GFqJ8tgPfhVj2fkZvi4ozW8AFu0bhDQ12qW5fck1GrJBYyxEb0mNkNpJJk/s1600/IMG_1569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZl3WdIkNcZRyDCj8v0LcYkMlRRvSX5CJ3rdh5ykLoRJydsp7wrWWO_MS4mUNoxTX35tam2gm2r3Zh-6xk9GFqJ8tgPfhVj2fkZvi4ozW8AFu0bhDQ12qW5fck1GrJBYyxEb0mNkNpJJk/s320/IMG_1569.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkuD8fNWRLfEPHsbj1TN9yfYqIyg1VuztTl0K7TwIqwNpLgfrAmQMbRVOFALQpazc-RcccGHnMKK_0fyuYbBFx4YT9cPql17jZEKio3Tv_usP1kCwFb5uOsuiJdv5AfCseFBI3sPllJBJp/s1600/IMG_1734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkuD8fNWRLfEPHsbj1TN9yfYqIyg1VuztTl0K7TwIqwNpLgfrAmQMbRVOFALQpazc-RcccGHnMKK_0fyuYbBFx4YT9cPql17jZEKio3Tv_usP1kCwFb5uOsuiJdv5AfCseFBI3sPllJBJp/s320/IMG_1734.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGpWqB9G3rr6EozqgJQA-_JHd5YjjqyGm-gY6bpWOljz1zWT2KrkVBnmAY2Dv1qBPoGccbchDS3RbDb0XOSKeB-8kZqLKT2yvqpDzyU0viuloC1fCabCyA7IV4JlyUrZPzBKFBIpLYod5/s1600/IMG_1735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGpWqB9G3rr6EozqgJQA-_JHd5YjjqyGm-gY6bpWOljz1zWT2KrkVBnmAY2Dv1qBPoGccbchDS3RbDb0XOSKeB-8kZqLKT2yvqpDzyU0viuloC1fCabCyA7IV4JlyUrZPzBKFBIpLYod5/s320/IMG_1735.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0dM5yv4yR0FHzyhVTLAB6JNg4Z8-387LvgMcBnvLDeiAQGr53mbns1WsoDcQ8jEAo6_Ff6QYXnfb9uueo1LloarAwXO_bo3yN_nCKeXZC605WEHWxVQnw2jKBHDmjnkjI_q043UqsmgZ/s320/IMG_1736.JPG" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="color: #45818e; font-size: small;">During the summer months pick or buy fresh, local organic fruit in bulk. You can freeze them for smoothies and baking! I paid $1.50 per pound for Organic blueberries....and 35 pounds total came to $52.50. The grocery store was selling organic blueberries for $4.99 for less than a pound. My mom and a friend gave me several zucchini so I shredded them up and froze for zucchini bread and soups! That didn't cost me a thing! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: black; font-size: large;">My pantry:</span></strong> <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhLtvRKks5obaJbbyeixdSIFeQBxRP9cqPyZfaRzS4d7zt5QMHYyiWDDC38MoCbDgl5_F_qqZGJXbPVvYJkd79oWrVoPNuJhwNSkiobEo0KhyFTfubLcfUhWSyrpFVTQc6qBm04II63B7/s1600/IMG_1585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhLtvRKks5obaJbbyeixdSIFeQBxRP9cqPyZfaRzS4d7zt5QMHYyiWDDC38MoCbDgl5_F_qqZGJXbPVvYJkd79oWrVoPNuJhwNSkiobEo0KhyFTfubLcfUhWSyrpFVTQc6qBm04II63B7/s320/IMG_1585.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1crsAmIzul6P11jvYmAwmgCczJLZ3nHVI2VM9VetloWv4CopvKAs0WJsjyl99v_YwlRm3ZFzbEBSKOMHmjZg17Fkxz_9k7QuVqH4pIxNWKnfJELG9j7Qq_1uh70pwi8FgWGgVLszBIF6T/s1600/IMG_1697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1crsAmIzul6P11jvYmAwmgCczJLZ3nHVI2VM9VetloWv4CopvKAs0WJsjyl99v_YwlRm3ZFzbEBSKOMHmjZg17Fkxz_9k7QuVqH4pIxNWKnfJELG9j7Qq_1uh70pwi8FgWGgVLszBIF6T/s320/IMG_1697.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTo1_0_rVHZ3NAmWnQdnrZPxT7q0v90YMoIq8X2R-ancnGaNskb-Gyab6fzOfg_zKR63dV8T8i5S4xhEbWXqdKBAzh3vos-oICDP08JAGSy1e7W8YSqg7g0dNDftAwwJOPNtEF9Yb4TBa/s1600/IMG_1698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTo1_0_rVHZ3NAmWnQdnrZPxT7q0v90YMoIq8X2R-ancnGaNskb-Gyab6fzOfg_zKR63dV8T8i5S4xhEbWXqdKBAzh3vos-oICDP08JAGSy1e7W8YSqg7g0dNDftAwwJOPNtEF9Yb4TBa/s320/IMG_1698.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbgkGGniMH4tBRYdixy6qGibReCcsobxph0xr8UFacu9v9uZdCGAgQfGrVZ_ue6_mYqpOi6h85AujYF3B9HhX0f3Zo_Pg3GVxne0ZBHcYFFhquj27mnM7cE8D8ceXeW4LVZ5KDZFfGXVvr/s1600/IMG_1699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbgkGGniMH4tBRYdixy6qGibReCcsobxph0xr8UFacu9v9uZdCGAgQfGrVZ_ue6_mYqpOi6h85AujYF3B9HhX0f3Zo_Pg3GVxne0ZBHcYFFhquj27mnM7cE8D8ceXeW4LVZ5KDZFfGXVvr/s320/IMG_1699.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVjI3X7tO2Lb9IUoHu9z5L6AgJapvv1VcdYIqGzI6PU9w6y6GeUPxaUHsPLolabGOE271TWkjHSNDkMjciLc7GB51f93-N9X7aXe4FZS5U4hYGnWjgzULoEqElcIqiei3KrNKRbz1Cou3/s1600/IMG_1702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVjI3X7tO2Lb9IUoHu9z5L6AgJapvv1VcdYIqGzI6PU9w6y6GeUPxaUHsPLolabGOE271TWkjHSNDkMjciLc7GB51f93-N9X7aXe4FZS5U4hYGnWjgzULoEqElcIqiei3KrNKRbz1Cou3/s320/IMG_1702.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtMB-kgeMWDg0IPv-U4L7q0w1ixRWC0NfoHWgsyVFj5ZhNpB2kz9PJ-vpraXHq-ABlVKmeLiCTlUw8fwxrKDiSXXjDwr1f4M9a3bSNGVaemaCAbQqHwhsUpbEpAgyCKwt61pL_CqCuHyX1/s1600/IMG_1701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtMB-kgeMWDg0IPv-U4L7q0w1ixRWC0NfoHWgsyVFj5ZhNpB2kz9PJ-vpraXHq-ABlVKmeLiCTlUw8fwxrKDiSXXjDwr1f4M9a3bSNGVaemaCAbQqHwhsUpbEpAgyCKwt61pL_CqCuHyX1/s320/IMG_1701.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHONCN-igb6_tPTwnh10Uln8o5wFR_8LlXBjiGyyOdxxPRDwqYqA8dpDm30Prsa_hJvuWpNL-HLlxDuxPAbXG-z9RDF5LOi9K86223e0A_fQhNcLTtwJfYWDq6aGeNCpHxlI4R_e7Dp3HT/s1600/IMG_1703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHONCN-igb6_tPTwnh10Uln8o5wFR_8LlXBjiGyyOdxxPRDwqYqA8dpDm30Prsa_hJvuWpNL-HLlxDuxPAbXG-z9RDF5LOi9K86223e0A_fQhNcLTtwJfYWDq6aGeNCpHxlI4R_e7Dp3HT/s320/IMG_1703.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFKBSeKW6dQGKlrHXZ8U3yIxqPMGxZCg0IPM72-CxZ55AV83bWivfa7uC9T639Q79zqx6PFjKvUY70yhn5IpDOM4z0XN23n8T2qbiRYnOwqtuNHZQII1LDDr_57Vy_9Eib5jz4JVmxz1z/s1600/IMG_1704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFKBSeKW6dQGKlrHXZ8U3yIxqPMGxZCg0IPM72-CxZ55AV83bWivfa7uC9T639Q79zqx6PFjKvUY70yhn5IpDOM4z0XN23n8T2qbiRYnOwqtuNHZQII1LDDr_57Vy_9Eib5jz4JVmxz1z/s320/IMG_1704.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTIwgG-ajeVmUSU_Oi8D21adAirfl2rnHhVlj40q4wlyroGCo8HhLrpbaDBdFDcpVYS4WTEEbE6ODefWYMflhLrnwoXSoLyQBmyOnfGz_NYRP3eQky2xaR9fXzv5Ggyhr9LooOiB52zAIi/s1600/IMG_1705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTIwgG-ajeVmUSU_Oi8D21adAirfl2rnHhVlj40q4wlyroGCo8HhLrpbaDBdFDcpVYS4WTEEbE6ODefWYMflhLrnwoXSoLyQBmyOnfGz_NYRP3eQky2xaR9fXzv5Ggyhr9LooOiB52zAIi/s320/IMG_1705.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vKK1Bag74lRAqZC_nehFbolDinPKIEM7VVGBDeyVhlYBsGDz0IoGW92jJMbVwT-0fri_DgDsk1lI2YwUec8lhyphenhyphenqEMR-TLUI_kYGzpm8oIVZUEvVaeN7txZ9LkGY9tnViosTYwUEXuqcr/s1600/IMG_1706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vKK1Bag74lRAqZC_nehFbolDinPKIEM7VVGBDeyVhlYBsGDz0IoGW92jJMbVwT-0fri_DgDsk1lI2YwUec8lhyphenhyphenqEMR-TLUI_kYGzpm8oIVZUEvVaeN7txZ9LkGY9tnViosTYwUEXuqcr/s320/IMG_1706.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #45818e;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #45818e;">If there is one item for your pantry I highly recommend it's organic Quinoa! This is a very versatile item that can be made into a breakfast porridge, a side dish, salad, or main entrée. Quinoa is a seed not a grain and has all 9 essential amino acids. Want to know all the health benefits? Read</span><a href="http://www.3fatchicks.com/5-health-benefits-of-quinoa/"><span style="color: #45818e;"> </span><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a><span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="color: #38761d;"> </span>and </span><a href="http://www.care2.com/greenliving/8-health-benefits-of-quinoa.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">here</span></a><span style="color: #45818e;">. Know someone with apple trees and the apples are going to waste? Ask if you can pick them and spend a day or two making applesauce. Canning is a very new thing to me but I chose applesauce to start with as it is pretty simple!</span> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpe5_3ee8-3T8tisLi9lqO3UIVbszH0sCGCE4Pwzsio4VPH0AyqmeILLYSKobpIdNfVbsGCmkr13sELZUzxniL5UElH-iSzjgHH6v-nDy9u479Vxzd9UIJ1y5r-BucQHNNpAYej6SRQKk/s1600/IMG_1707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Spices/Baking staples:</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpe5_3ee8-3T8tisLi9lqO3UIVbszH0sCGCE4Pwzsio4VPH0AyqmeILLYSKobpIdNfVbsGCmkr13sELZUzxniL5UElH-iSzjgHH6v-nDy9u479Vxzd9UIJ1y5r-BucQHNNpAYej6SRQKk/s1600/IMG_1707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpe5_3ee8-3T8tisLi9lqO3UIVbszH0sCGCE4Pwzsio4VPH0AyqmeILLYSKobpIdNfVbsGCmkr13sELZUzxniL5UElH-iSzjgHH6v-nDy9u479Vxzd9UIJ1y5r-BucQHNNpAYej6SRQKk/s320/IMG_1707.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qTdvQdUqPpucbTcpSTBNdt__8lWnyTonqnKIeuzVzYBKL9QiEmoEInCgo9Wrb2pdHoEUk-DKEvCNXxMoaEEAZaM1gr__DP5zAK3gjd3H-5sDRnh8wXL16cg8urzJo6DmEm2u0xlLb0ty/s1600/IMG_1727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qTdvQdUqPpucbTcpSTBNdt__8lWnyTonqnKIeuzVzYBKL9QiEmoEInCgo9Wrb2pdHoEUk-DKEvCNXxMoaEEAZaM1gr__DP5zAK3gjd3H-5sDRnh8wXL16cg8urzJo6DmEm2u0xlLb0ty/s320/IMG_1727.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK98U7lCQixsHwb49cCXjQEpceOcptzU1LKBiBuhJtTevF_FD5dcpfiSX9lo8eT7IPdYQ5p4LeNPh5iYOkYQF3e0Aw0V9Ju0Ojd7tbAnys_RYdKOSxso5C-ACYy2BxutiiQITrf65QIUNf/s1600/IMG_1728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK98U7lCQixsHwb49cCXjQEpceOcptzU1LKBiBuhJtTevF_FD5dcpfiSX9lo8eT7IPdYQ5p4LeNPh5iYOkYQF3e0Aw0V9Ju0Ojd7tbAnys_RYdKOSxso5C-ACYy2BxutiiQITrf65QIUNf/s320/IMG_1728.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kq41UbesR4bByUffogjDI_67EBYoevuMmrrwaWZsfaaxLzg6u1Mog4m2FSPMLUA0Yhl5xpHRbJMXkWHcgkCi5zj4gygWwaS_b-rEnzB5fjHvfdunoTEiJfVbHA08FR4ztBSSthBhqVd4/s1600/IMG_1729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kq41UbesR4bByUffogjDI_67EBYoevuMmrrwaWZsfaaxLzg6u1Mog4m2FSPMLUA0Yhl5xpHRbJMXkWHcgkCi5zj4gygWwaS_b-rEnzB5fjHvfdunoTEiJfVbHA08FR4ztBSSthBhqVd4/s320/IMG_1729.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkx__hXkGDqY3wSByV6NcTK0mBdimptmFK8PVvTO7-TFVY1OWde2wogZA2V_a8QO4XtIlcHbrvAgIuvDLhAic4dnXyUeScynd4DaR1tVo2gQWgHII-mkMcHZ9Y2LTRFBdDJQHIRDPneRaV/s1600/IMG_1730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkx__hXkGDqY3wSByV6NcTK0mBdimptmFK8PVvTO7-TFVY1OWde2wogZA2V_a8QO4XtIlcHbrvAgIuvDLhAic4dnXyUeScynd4DaR1tVo2gQWgHII-mkMcHZ9Y2LTRFBdDJQHIRDPneRaV/s320/IMG_1730.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVN2D8o3lfw8sIv5jxV6JOlzll2BxaHA3N2tIrMqf5L6-1nzKWwiCZe9QLeO7MyY_fxPXEjxKbO3Q6gV9HAkMdLN7s_v6ad8vGHDzZT3uhOqseEG53Tv0CfTr3H31kG13ND_IgeSPRqaE/s1600/IMG_1731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVN2D8o3lfw8sIv5jxV6JOlzll2BxaHA3N2tIrMqf5L6-1nzKWwiCZe9QLeO7MyY_fxPXEjxKbO3Q6gV9HAkMdLN7s_v6ad8vGHDzZT3uhOqseEG53Tv0CfTr3H31kG13ND_IgeSPRqaE/s320/IMG_1731.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-XjYoRsHWFaThj0COEubwrPQhJ-DVmPPwNC-j2Eghr7imyl0G7RtgtVSU4-JN_hW8hmLvhf5vQ6FnBRHVgWaGrGe-ESN94FMEN8sNsxSIn5_1ZY9AepZQiT5Y9O6kNSxEf54CB0XCww0q/s1600/IMG_1732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-XjYoRsHWFaThj0COEubwrPQhJ-DVmPPwNC-j2Eghr7imyl0G7RtgtVSU4-JN_hW8hmLvhf5vQ6FnBRHVgWaGrGe-ESN94FMEN8sNsxSIn5_1ZY9AepZQiT5Y9O6kNSxEf54CB0XCww0q/s320/IMG_1732.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQ8qYn2b9S8SMHn_-XSQur0HvJCZEr_BgKwCQs4NDrdGWXIxIlP8IMshy385U1CZoqIt2husVtf9nyiHBuyxO6ermEgYkbaEdDvq8PQxmSGlqdlMi3OASo6-nmFZ5JSlMFjIkPi436oSB/s1600/IMG_1737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQ8qYn2b9S8SMHn_-XSQur0HvJCZEr_BgKwCQs4NDrdGWXIxIlP8IMshy385U1CZoqIt2husVtf9nyiHBuyxO6ermEgYkbaEdDvq8PQxmSGlqdlMi3OASo6-nmFZ5JSlMFjIkPi436oSB/s320/IMG_1737.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDjoPlJ7nEeglfVzamHyQ4jkly33ieJ6eCKJX5S4bFXJTBelYBP0OsPBxs-vAEe1gASJSsA41sZf4Eyfosw0S5ZSR0hmPaKUUnVj9LsZuCg8ipPJIdxGdxhu8BF81gSxIIgwIxoZfkhiAj/s1600/IMG_1738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDjoPlJ7nEeglfVzamHyQ4jkly33ieJ6eCKJX5S4bFXJTBelYBP0OsPBxs-vAEe1gASJSsA41sZf4Eyfosw0S5ZSR0hmPaKUUnVj9LsZuCg8ipPJIdxGdxhu8BF81gSxIIgwIxoZfkhiAj/s320/IMG_1738.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #45818e;">You will notice my salt up above is </span><a href="http://www.redmondtrading.com/real-salt/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Real Salt</span></a><span style="color: #45818e;">. I've always thought salt was bad for us and have avoided it, however, Real Salt is full of natural trace minerals and is actually very important for health. I also recommend Safflower oil for cooking and heating at high temperatures. You do NOT want to heat olive oil (I just recently realized this!)</span></span></div>
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Beverages:</span></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBRlaH4Kbn8oILhG97v_WsJlkt7Fw31MPfy6gaYRt13-G34Z0oFsYWmHOQXojiKMBjK8V3lrgRLbemPuEsW-NdblPFgdvAWd8UDCT80KCHjncQVBuo-v6ffG92oTgDOAJ1QOyITSCT19a6/s1600/IMG_1695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBRlaH4Kbn8oILhG97v_WsJlkt7Fw31MPfy6gaYRt13-G34Z0oFsYWmHOQXojiKMBjK8V3lrgRLbemPuEsW-NdblPFgdvAWd8UDCT80KCHjncQVBuo-v6ffG92oTgDOAJ1QOyITSCT19a6/s320/IMG_1695.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVyr1JB0IG1rK2Fmwot3TAH6cAP_lFZgalkKLtkRC1YWl1TihSr6BpeK5V8krk2e973mJJpb_b7DjVr7mr8K6DqJ2BWFNDMKjRN-ujVw8nisMPDO_YiAkeQXFi9Zha69XLgVqD2O8vUdCD/s1600/IMG_1696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVyr1JB0IG1rK2Fmwot3TAH6cAP_lFZgalkKLtkRC1YWl1TihSr6BpeK5V8krk2e973mJJpb_b7DjVr7mr8K6DqJ2BWFNDMKjRN-ujVw8nisMPDO_YiAkeQXFi9Zha69XLgVqD2O8vUdCD/s320/IMG_1696.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVvzYQ0CXuU05xQe0_1ghYqGrkV1Ovt9QOpcQkQmZxeFLQXlNg1gWRZ0jlR2hqqyhaGux6xGoLnfNM39qvdb9aNjz60yJ6saH5xT5uauiJ5iDo8sUePOJXKEKicshJ8Pkhq_L5VjZEw9o/s1600/IMG_1700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVvzYQ0CXuU05xQe0_1ghYqGrkV1Ovt9QOpcQkQmZxeFLQXlNg1gWRZ0jlR2hqqyhaGux6xGoLnfNM39qvdb9aNjz60yJ6saH5xT5uauiJ5iDo8sUePOJXKEKicshJ8Pkhq_L5VjZEw9o/s320/IMG_1700.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Coconut Water is another thing I recommend to have on hand. It's a great drink when you are sick as it is high in electrolytes and potassium!! Yes I do treat myself to soda sometimes but ones without high fructose corn syrup or other artificial sweeteners, food dyes, or other harmful ingredients!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I do believe in the saying, "Pay now or pay later." Changing the way you eat may mean increasing your food budget....but it's a worthy investment and it doesn't have to break the bank. For a family of 5 I have budgeted $185/week for food and household supplies. That is $26.43 per day. Per person that is $5.29 a day. I think this is the first time that I have ever broken down what I am spending...I am quite impressed!! $5.29 per person for whole foods, healthy, organic snacks & meals!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are a few suggestions to help you budget :</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A lot of the photos you saw above are things I purchased in bulk at Costco. The savings is huge compared to going to the local grocery store and making the same purchases. So although you may be paying out more at once, you are paying less per ounce, box, can, package, etc...</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Get some chickens!! We live in the city with no property at all. My husband built a chicken coop and we have more eggs then I can keep up with! We also did raise some chickens for meat but really don't have the space for that where we live. Buying whole organic chickens at the store is not cheap. Hoping we can raise our own again in the future! </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you eat beef, find a local rancher and fill your freezer for the year. You can buy 1/4, 1/2 or a whole cow. If you have never purchased beef this way, it is a big upfront expense but overall a huge savings...especially if you want organic, grass fed! Beef is typically sold based on hanging weight, but your actual bring home amount that you put in your freezer is going to be less than the hanging weight. So for example if you pay $3.50 per pound (including butcher fees) for 1/4 a cow and the hanging weight is 250 pounds. Your cost will be $875 but you will probably end up with 150 pounds in your freezer. $875/150=$5.83 per pound. If you were to go to the store and individually purchase organic, grass fed steaks, ground beef, roasts that equaled 150 pounds you'd be spending a tremendous amount more!!!</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Buy fruits and vegetables from local farmers markets, CSA programs, or produce stands. Most are going to have local organic or minimally sprayed produce at great prices!</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When things are marked down that is your time to stock up and purchase several at once!</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's amazing how much you save when you stop buying pre-packaged, processed, and junk food. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Limit those spendy Starbucks/specialty drinks and eating out! Our family could go out to dinner and easily it would cost $25-$50 for one meal, depending on the kind of restaurant. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Use cloth dinner napkins instead of paper napkins. Hey every little savings matters!</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You will also discover that you stay fuller longer when you are eating whole foods!!</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The best advice I can give when it comes to what to eat and not eat....stick to whole foods as much as possible. A whole food has only one ingredient - itself! If the ingredients list is a mile long and most things you can't even pronounce and have no idea what is means....set it back down on the shelf and then turn and run! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cheers to your health!</div>
<br />
<br />
<div id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 6.85pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-31825272972154195292013-09-09T17:40:00.002-07:002013-09-09T21:25:55.643-07:00Thoughts on our first day of school<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today was our first day of school for the new year! I try to make the first day extra special. We started out our morning eating a delicious breakfast. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Hz8qh6ex43Njky69NgUjtwCp6tRnF_Tg-TEAVCXrR7Ma6LMpXNWzFaeXBvXwo6uCSpgcKTCXbHtJRFryI3C67ii9kCe9tsdC5cXgkWCD2YBrGy4nIDBbJoYswm6aLFEuYaSGfG2-MINa/s1600/IMG_1626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Hz8qh6ex43Njky69NgUjtwCp6tRnF_Tg-TEAVCXrR7Ma6LMpXNWzFaeXBvXwo6uCSpgcKTCXbHtJRFryI3C67ii9kCe9tsdC5cXgkWCD2YBrGy4nIDBbJoYswm6aLFEuYaSGfG2-MINa/s320/IMG_1626.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then we headed outside for the annual tradition of first day of school photos by the tree out front!! I just love this sweet picture of my older two. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjam5oS9pP9HzqGTEG7djLVzkmHjeMRgslYzOfu7mF7mRGuQXFlQQpUQjGuXe1V9LdSsMeN4fUjrIoV5Mycx7kEMzRWJqCvV9SVCgSveADmtU065z5KdSjnNwvfVjiEMqEQofccGi9KA4Ha/s1600/IMG_1625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjam5oS9pP9HzqGTEG7djLVzkmHjeMRgslYzOfu7mF7mRGuQXFlQQpUQjGuXe1V9LdSsMeN4fUjrIoV5Mycx7kEMzRWJqCvV9SVCgSveADmtU065z5KdSjnNwvfVjiEMqEQofccGi9KA4Ha/s320/IMG_1625.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Although they do have a good relationship and can be found most of the time playing and having fun together, they have many moments of being at odds. They were being silly posing in the photo below...but I just had to share this as it goes so nicely with what is on my heart for this post.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SNOfeXbp32fEN6l5nL6ste3Ednv6DiyWu4KChQ5wNg7cxhyd7iWcEyCoFyWS1oRSkonoY8Imtv5YNdnZZXD9hizoP8vJFH-ASZ4HE1kV1PkcgTAGctnsojhpyxTG39FXQvXLYRPK5pOR/s1600/IMG_1621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SNOfeXbp32fEN6l5nL6ste3Ednv6DiyWu4KChQ5wNg7cxhyd7iWcEyCoFyWS1oRSkonoY8Imtv5YNdnZZXD9hizoP8vJFH-ASZ4HE1kV1PkcgTAGctnsojhpyxTG39FXQvXLYRPK5pOR/s320/IMG_1621.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today, on this first day of school, which should be so wonderful and blissful in every way (ok in a perfect world) there have been many moments of fighting, disagreements, and unkind words/actions towards each other. At one point I sat my girls down and shared with them how important relationship with each other is, more important than academics or extracurricular activities. This year I have chosen to focus more inwardly on our family relationships and say no to all the extra outside the home stuff that so easily fill the calendar and consume our time. I pointed out to my girls how the Lord is wanting to do a work in all of our hearts during this season (and always)! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This morning the girls did their reading, language lessons, copywork, and math. This part of the day seemed to go very well! Yay!!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2mG8L9OU-XUbwHVh2ji2p28_Xyxj69hwoxpNak6WHYlmKYifHcpjTl1o7Kaou052d56xKUdzw9nHTbA-4bRvdpmzZXCG2qXQm-GFDiWwwSdiv9sk-JJTjUgvuTeF7UUeoTkApx1XG_HM/s1600/IMG_1629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2mG8L9OU-XUbwHVh2ji2p28_Xyxj69hwoxpNak6WHYlmKYifHcpjTl1o7Kaou052d56xKUdzw9nHTbA-4bRvdpmzZXCG2qXQm-GFDiWwwSdiv9sk-JJTjUgvuTeF7UUeoTkApx1XG_HM/s320/IMG_1629.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After lunch we sat down on the couch and read the first chapter from our history curriculum (<a href="https://www.queenshomeschooling.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=79_80&products_id=536&zenid=eebb17dbf1f17c7fccd3f8cf67fcbe4c"><span style="color: #38761d;">A Living History of Our World</span></a>, volume 2 by Angela O'Dell). Afterwards I opened the notebooking journal that my oldest is going to be doing alongside her history. At the very beginning of the book was a "kindness book" to be cut out. Every week the child is suppose to write one kind thing they did that week and who they showed kindness too. As I began to read the information and instructions regarding the book, I found myself getting all choked up. I wasn't sure how this fit in with history, but the timing couldn't have been more perfect and the idea more necessary than right now!! (Thank you Angela O'Dell for your amazing heart and for adding this into the history journal!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even as I am typing these words my oldest remains on the couch and has so for the last 20 minutes. I told her we are going to dedicate this book to her relationship with her younger sister and every week she is going to fill it in with something kind she has done for her. She has sat there and is unable to think of anything from this past week...so I told her just think of one thing from your whole entire life of knowing your sister...she continues sitting there thinking long and hard. It really isn't that hard to come up with something kind she has done for her sister, she has done many kind things, more things than I could even list. But there is an issue of the heart happening right now and....God is in the business of changing hearts and getting the junk out...even in a young child's life. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I learned very quickly on, that with the decision to homeschool, it meant our days were going to be messy, our ugly sides would be seen, sin & pride would creep up often, and chaos would happen regularly. This is the reality when you have imperfect big and little people all under one roof for a good portion of your day. The thing we have on our side with homeschooling is time...we are given lots of minutes and hours of time in our day to stop and address the ugliness head on (including our own ugliness at times) and to see imperfect progress!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Perhaps you can relate. You had all these ideals in your head of what you thought homeschooling would look like and the reality is a far cry from what you had imagined. Maybe you have asked yourself, "Am I really cut out to homeschool my children?" or "Did I really volunteer myself to take homeschooling and all that it entails on?" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can do this!! As you draw near to God and call out to Him for strength, joy, trust, guidance, and direction, He will NOT fail you. Trust your kids and your year of homeschooling to the Lord!! Just watch out because some amazing things are going to come out of the hard moments, the rough days, the overwhelming situations! You will see breakthrough, you will see growth, walls come down, attitudes change, and relationships made stronger! We desperately need God's peace, patience, strength and wisdom every moment of every day! (I'm speaking these words to myself right now and believing God to move in a mighty way!!) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Blessings on each one of you amazing homeschool moms!! Praying for an amazing year for you and your kiddos!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOz08QcEppRrURJkyN3r_1_T323AegZnmiAbf9yLzHaHL83U2iOllNOJtnPM5_L9rxu1Sk92T8bdOBZ2mKdpAXMiIlAXC8gWFXGfjR8KdBjsLnxTyrojb-w55bpSvCxJuJQet1Qt27qzfF/s1600/3b38c61b6597fdac41b0cc652b732c45%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOz08QcEppRrURJkyN3r_1_T323AegZnmiAbf9yLzHaHL83U2iOllNOJtnPM5_L9rxu1Sk92T8bdOBZ2mKdpAXMiIlAXC8gWFXGfjR8KdBjsLnxTyrojb-w55bpSvCxJuJQet1Qt27qzfF/s400/3b38c61b6597fdac41b0cc652b732c45%5B1%5D.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RmMMud57SAaqeiCy108IiOGaNkVhZMX01VF8trBHRzWWWLMwqhnRoJkqBHe4CnQOZgLTS5zN6Fmu8ISM3zMCx7P6yZeHomukzPbQdWOuba2OCXSp6s04AIUZ13aUZLWiC87OkFvwfcqc/s1600/10730808903d416a553e533dd7c4fb18%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RmMMud57SAaqeiCy108IiOGaNkVhZMX01VF8trBHRzWWWLMwqhnRoJkqBHe4CnQOZgLTS5zN6Fmu8ISM3zMCx7P6yZeHomukzPbQdWOuba2OCXSp6s04AIUZ13aUZLWiC87OkFvwfcqc/s320/10730808903d416a553e533dd7c4fb18%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4o8RL4wHyJJAUq_MBwq2dvWt72Hqn8efy8OZdY_CfvN5QsVRVItkiKqiiPTRop_msDtMBUCvOnGFQbzMLQllBrRQxYKVkpWcpgNkS4lGGVqLoB1oWm5UKftogmQmGDfyE3NvDHByf7_8/s1600/a1c83dc57c53274edfc0857ee0887056%5B3%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4o8RL4wHyJJAUq_MBwq2dvWt72Hqn8efy8OZdY_CfvN5QsVRVItkiKqiiPTRop_msDtMBUCvOnGFQbzMLQllBrRQxYKVkpWcpgNkS4lGGVqLoB1oWm5UKftogmQmGDfyE3NvDHByf7_8/s320/a1c83dc57c53274edfc0857ee0887056%5B3%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
P.S. - My oldest finally brought me her "kindness book" and I opened it and read for week 1, "I gave my grandma a glass painted turtle." I sent her back to the couch to redo and list something kind she has done for her sister, to which she finally wrote, "I gave my sister a toy hamster for Christmas." She did it but not with a happy heart in the least. I finally requested that she go to her room and talk to Jesus about her heart and attitude. Jesus is the only one who can fix our sin and set us free! She came out of her room a few minutes ago with a huge smile on her face and is happily playing with both her sisters right now. Time for me to go make dinner. Tomorrow is a new day!</div>
<br />
<div id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 6.85pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-36074872657505884012013-09-05T22:22:00.000-07:002013-09-06T07:17:57.936-07:00So thankful I said "Yes"!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt=":)" class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/47/77/f4/4777f4823b6c4648007872a787cfad37.jpg" style="height: 330px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 497px;" /></div>
Just over a week ago I hugged and kissed my husband and two older girls goodbye as they headed off on a trip east to Virginia. It was a very hard and emotional day to say the least. My husband had been planning to go alone for our nephews wedding but at the last minute decided he wanted to bring the girls along. Originally he thought it would be a quick trip there and back due to work commitments, but plans changed, which allowed him to go for a longer stay. Since I do childcare and didn't feel right putting this family in a last minute situation of having to find alternative care, I decided to stay behind with our youngest. <br />
<br />
Allow me to back up for a minute though and share that when my husband brought up the idea of taking the girls, there was no hesitation to my answer...."No, No, No!" The idea of my girls traveling on an airplane across the United States without me....no way!! Thought after thought, fear after fear, came to my mind and filled it to the brim. Every time my husband brought up the idea it was a loud and clear, "NO!" I threw every excuse I could at him..."what about this?" Or "what about that?". Yet he continued to pursue the idea, and not in a demanding way but a sincere, "I have been working a lot and I really want to take them and have some time with my girls" kind of way. <br />
<br />
Slowly, and I mean very slowly, the walls started coming down. I was gently reminded by the Lord of the word He put on my heart at the start of this year..."TRUST". I began to realize how much I was NOT trusting in the situation and how wrong I was to deny my husband, my children's father, something he had every right to do. He could have so easily gone by himself on this trip and enjoyed a carefree week without the added stresses or responsibilities that come along with having children in your care. Yet he pursued and pursued this chance to take his girls and spend time with them. I couldn't ignore it anymore, I couldn't run, or pretend it wasn't something I had to face. I was 100% in the wrong. My girls could not be in more better care than with their dad!! And time with him was exactly what they needed!<br />
<br />
So I finally went to him and shared how wrong I was and that I was open to them going BUT the mommy in me still had to give one major stipulation. One of the excuses I used for them not going had to do with my concern regarding food. It's very important to me (as I am sure it is to many of you reading this) to make sure my kids eat an overall healthy diet (and gluten free in our case!). My husband does not necessarily have those same convictions...deep fried twinkie, beer battered corn dog, greasy french fries and a large soda just might be something he would order at a 4th of July event!!! (Yuck!!) Of course there are a few of you probably drooling over this photo right now (you know who you are!!)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/9b/f8/7d/9bf87de146bbd5bf66e32a6e1aae6dc7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Deep Fried Twinkies and other State Fair Recipes!!" border="0" class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/9b/f8/7d/9bf87de146bbd5bf66e32a6e1aae6dc7.jpg" style="height: 284px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 40px 0px; width: 320px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a deep fried twinkie...doesn't it look so delicious! NOT!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Thankfully he promised to go grocery shopping when he got there and to do his very best to feed them within the guidelines I set (though I am sure he snuck in a few unhealthy, sugary, bad for you treats a time or two...I'm ok with that!).<br />
<br />
So I bet you are all wondering how I have possibly survived 1 1 /2 weeks without my precious kids all here in my care??? Can I just share that this has been such a huge blessing in disguise!! I really needed this more than I realized. I think the day in and day out of motherhood and all that comes along with that role had really worn on me. The house has been so much more quiet (though remember I still have a 3 year old here with me so it's not completely quiet!). The laundry pile has been so much smaller. The messes have been so much less. And having this special time with my youngest has been so wonderful! It has been such a refreshing time for my spirit!<br />
<br />
I have also been able to get a lot of things accomplished and check so much off my to-do list: spend quality time with my youngest, find a violin for my middle daughter who is starting violin lessons this year, get new car keys made (the expensive battery operated ones that are programmed to your car), buy apples and <a href="http://thehomeschoolingjourney.blogspot.com/2013/08/canning-applesauce.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">can applesauce</span></a>, run 16 miles, create a schedule for the fall, finish ordering last minute things for school, buy art supplies, meet with co-teacher and plan out our running class for homeschool co-op, order 1/2 cow, get my oldest running shoes, schedule dentist appointments, hair appointments, and back to school photo session, spend time with good friends, plan and organize all the field trips for our homeschool co-op for the fall, shred and freeze zucchini, buy and can peaches...and last but not least....get me a MASSAGE!!! My massage takes place tomorrow and peaches have been bought and I plan to can in the next few days...everything else I can check off my list!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93Y4ja1hb6eFT8DciUX9IlYV0f3yVgnbEwNYcXXXvaOjkwhkhZIDaky499VTlMfbIpnEPBY6heCu8eL0C1E7XOJpTSlcqXShTCN0NBUk082sOLsyWo2cEkxAQjFFyafaFSUqMNrVW1W-e/s1600/IMG_1568%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93Y4ja1hb6eFT8DciUX9IlYV0f3yVgnbEwNYcXXXvaOjkwhkhZIDaky499VTlMfbIpnEPBY6heCu8eL0C1E7XOJpTSlcqXShTCN0NBUk082sOLsyWo2cEkxAQjFFyafaFSUqMNrVW1W-e/s400/IMG_1568%5B1%5D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shredded 20 cups of zucchini!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzFGOtJpI8m_QUtWY_wq9RmQHWXh7WFL-Rhpovoc_-_e8FDCMIlFhmfYPvCWBrgfilJL5QWKG3Lv7nTcR46y0PMx3Pqmqw0ZR9_9a6Q8opTIkHtNFV3qqlevqPf5Psl7Vtw6hwbMfT1L0/s1600/IMG_1554%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzFGOtJpI8m_QUtWY_wq9RmQHWXh7WFL-Rhpovoc_-_e8FDCMIlFhmfYPvCWBrgfilJL5QWKG3Lv7nTcR46y0PMx3Pqmqw0ZR9_9a6Q8opTIkHtNFV3qqlevqPf5Psl7Vtw6hwbMfT1L0/s400/IMG_1554%5B1%5D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bought 2 - 25lb boxes of peaches!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytIIJZtLZx0mab649eNe3BCp1x5wwXfIVD-j0aGUp_7BUWaW4aE72uqzvq73GlHxS3LeYjHMQwywdSjws3oEF7_FpxLaCw8irweQTSiGe_AYyM96s9dZR-yAT1-ojavZATnugK0CMcvHX/s1600/IMG_1517%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytIIJZtLZx0mab649eNe3BCp1x5wwXfIVD-j0aGUp_7BUWaW4aE72uqzvq73GlHxS3LeYjHMQwywdSjws3oEF7_FpxLaCw8irweQTSiGe_AYyM96s9dZR-yAT1-ojavZATnugK0CMcvHX/s400/IMG_1517%5B1%5D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Created a "flexible" schedule! Remember the joy of homeschooling is you are <br />
not bound to a piece of paper/schedule...you have freedom!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOy1fMCbB_F2LE7_En7LCVbc0plf_TrEJLmGiWzXelOwqQ-A1-moXwzjztkXPc5oWE7YXcz0wpSvFfbTBdu1RfMB9eiwT5gQoK3kezz9zYXxY31ZuQmgUSvfgmsgGTlQVOC17jQltyuKhS/s1600/IMG_1473%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOy1fMCbB_F2LE7_En7LCVbc0plf_TrEJLmGiWzXelOwqQ-A1-moXwzjztkXPc5oWE7YXcz0wpSvFfbTBdu1RfMB9eiwT5gQoK3kezz9zYXxY31ZuQmgUSvfgmsgGTlQVOC17jQltyuKhS/s320/IMG_1473%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ran 16 miles for my marathon training!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
My family returns in a few days and I can not wait to see them, hug them, hold them, and love on them!!! However, I believe this time away has been so good for me and also for my girls!! This will be a special trip with their daddy that they will never forget!<br />
<br />
In closing I wanted to share a few letters my oldest wrote to me before she left on this trip. She heard my "No's" and all my concerns for why I didn't want them to go and these are notes she left behind for me. In the first note when she says, "I missed you before you lift (left) home." The night they were headed out I left before them as I had plans already to go have dinner with friends, so that is what that refers to. In the second letter take notice of her last sentence, "and don't worry about us we'll make good choices for our food." Those little letters just blessed my mommy heart tremendously!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyasuv0raM-nsPqDgzs8W5sRdoykHqZgeanDIAg4Bx_BEew-UgbqUvsIQ7ZHtKioU2b4fNKaFXiocmuHU2HkEsIIkeqy01fsJjWocHxLRRsW1kfqmrZu9WmDK9otEAY_AccI57Dhi7lrNE/s1600/IMG_1573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyasuv0raM-nsPqDgzs8W5sRdoykHqZgeanDIAg4Bx_BEew-UgbqUvsIQ7ZHtKioU2b4fNKaFXiocmuHU2HkEsIIkeqy01fsJjWocHxLRRsW1kfqmrZu9WmDK9otEAY_AccI57Dhi7lrNE/s320/IMG_1573.JPG" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="239" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Hmb0MZe-paNb8ET262S44LphrR7SIy4tZyG2CLlzbjmBEOv53StBVEiciMN6hTEfnHMqToNCiPlIIhpDk8GvmTojebUiyuXzWJ1MgwZXtqOulAH6t9Pj1rRfzrMf32mvshaV3Mtoshnq/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Hmb0MZe-paNb8ET262S44LphrR7SIy4tZyG2CLlzbjmBEOv53StBVEiciMN6hTEfnHMqToNCiPlIIhpDk8GvmTojebUiyuXzWJ1MgwZXtqOulAH6t9Pj1rRfzrMf32mvshaV3Mtoshnq/s320/IMG_1572.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQ_5W0dFrC0zI0kCC5a-pl5EYRAfQCLSlPsR6VUOAbnGNz3HU8rO3te8Y1jmVWSObj4GEP6ZoA-FhKYKY5wx-G_PiaQ4Qb4i7im7VjMnCXj1B5Q4D8TA-XuSBETADCndU-BfrO2mXUPiy/s1600/IMG_1574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQ_5W0dFrC0zI0kCC5a-pl5EYRAfQCLSlPsR6VUOAbnGNz3HU8rO3te8Y1jmVWSObj4GEP6ZoA-FhKYKY5wx-G_PiaQ4Qb4i7im7VjMnCXj1B5Q4D8TA-XuSBETADCndU-BfrO2mXUPiy/s400/IMG_1574.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm so thankful I said "Yes"!! I'm thankful I had the Lord to lean on when I was struggling and feeling so overwhelmed by the thought of my girls going on this trip. What situation or circumstance in your life are you holding onto tightly that you need to let go of? It's time to hold onto the Lord instead and put all your TRUST in Him!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="When you feel like you can't take any more, remember this." class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/2f/ad/80/2fad80678501d1a8ccccabad7e02b744.jpg" style="height: 266px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 400px;" /> </div>
<div align="center">
<img alt="Trust God" class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/86/d6/6e/86d66eff2dc571df76355826262d3a6c.jpg" style="height: 299px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 500px;" /></div>
<br />
<div id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 6.85pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-39226105706031508562013-08-31T17:08:00.002-07:002014-07-11T09:01:26.855-07:00Canning ApplesauceI've never canned on my own until today. A year ago I helped my mom can some salsa, but other than that, I've never canned before. It's something that I have been interested in doing but it has always felt like this overwhelming, time consuming and such hard work project. Why do canning when the grocery store has what you need all ready to go? Well for many reasons I am learning....1) most canned foods at the grocery store are lined on the inside with a chemical called <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bpa/AN01955"><span style="color: #38761d;">BPA</span></a>, which has been linked to many health issues. 2) when you can food yourself you know exactly what is and IS NOT going into the food you are consuming. 3) you can buy things in bulk and/or from your own garden and save yourself some money. 4) You have a nice stock pile for a rainy day!<br />
<br />
I decided it's time I get over whatever has stopped me from canning in the past and give it a try. So today was the big day for me to can applesauce. I have been working on gathering up all my needed supplies over the past few days, including: borrowing my mom's water bath pot, jar grabber device, and funnel. Also purchasing jars/lids and a 22 pound box of organic Dayton apples. I didn't just purchase the apples, I helped the gentleman who owns the orchard pick them off his trees...talk about fresh! <br />
<br />
If you are reading this and you can relate and are wanting to give canning a try...applesauce is a simple and great thing to start with! Here is a blog that I followed closely: <a href="http://www.theprairiehomestead.com/2011/01/homemade-applesauce-and-a-canning-tutorial.html"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Prairie Homestead</span></a>.<br />
<br />
It's best to get all your supplies laid out and ready to go before you start! Here you can see a ladle, funnel, jar gripper, and the rings. There is also a magnetic device you use to pick up the lids out of the hot water but I didn't have that handy little device.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGP7A9j08jdayIO3XoqAykIGjA9IGS3n0iAvJh34mako4mG1ykX4fCUl2p27hsRADxsGoyWPcPvrckfK3A9TQuNSe0JzoWmAxlKWjvdhxwngj6lfdPhWaoYtmGtPnhQDvfywgnp6r05I8/s1600/IMG_1501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGP7A9j08jdayIO3XoqAykIGjA9IGS3n0iAvJh34mako4mG1ykX4fCUl2p27hsRADxsGoyWPcPvrckfK3A9TQuNSe0JzoWmAxlKWjvdhxwngj6lfdPhWaoYtmGtPnhQDvfywgnp6r05I8/s320/IMG_1501.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Get your jars starting to heat up in the water bath. They must be sterilized first and hot when you add the applesauce into them. Let boil for 10 minutes or longer with lid on. I had mine sitting in water on medium heat and turned up to high when it was time.<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"></span><span style="color: #38761d;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJgbb_GjtE0exwyWi23TOSj2JAN14jQ1SOrIIpWj63pwFhJBSEad8XFL3XPePE0L8e-o7fTFl73c6qLBn76ntxXGbulOt49D7Lj6P4-ljeBOGJq95nQgYWTVWmQWQkfcOf8ll01VwTuCFW/s1600/IMG_1502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJgbb_GjtE0exwyWi23TOSj2JAN14jQ1SOrIIpWj63pwFhJBSEad8XFL3XPePE0L8e-o7fTFl73c6qLBn76ntxXGbulOt49D7Lj6P4-ljeBOGJq95nQgYWTVWmQWQkfcOf8ll01VwTuCFW/s320/IMG_1502.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
You can also add the lids to a small pot and have simmering.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEb5N_OSx7NQW8VIijIXAsgKaFgfR9l_kwuSF-YWj7X3sAx8UFkI_v0-2uL5uWuK3Odt9ZtEVjJLI0SC7ZWfi3ULybjVSaWUwOlaqeIryWSB2R6P7LbxxW67yQu0WzjzWo3th_LzS7QqR_/s1600/IMG_1499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEb5N_OSx7NQW8VIijIXAsgKaFgfR9l_kwuSF-YWj7X3sAx8UFkI_v0-2uL5uWuK3Odt9ZtEVjJLI0SC7ZWfi3ULybjVSaWUwOlaqeIryWSB2R6P7LbxxW67yQu0WzjzWo3th_LzS7QqR_/s320/IMG_1499.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I soaked my apples in water to help wash them off. The organic farm sprays with <a href="http://www.groworganicapples.com/organic-orcharding-articles/surround-kaolin-clay.php"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kaolin Clay</span></a> as a natural method of protecting the apples, so they had a white film on them. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzeGHE_To-DC4DPL6YPWzn-eJM6UqvsuOU4kK95QNt5JUySd9YhKmpI8tiYhXfL-6lUgYOot-6FznFXmWTVIKbQmHkJhxq2riylQ9WzdpHGL0ONTHYfRYiJxqQ5fsOW5KFTcxr1QtMN9S_/s1600/IMG_1503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzeGHE_To-DC4DPL6YPWzn-eJM6UqvsuOU4kK95QNt5JUySd9YhKmpI8tiYhXfL-6lUgYOot-6FznFXmWTVIKbQmHkJhxq2riylQ9WzdpHGL0ONTHYfRYiJxqQ5fsOW5KFTcxr1QtMN9S_/s320/IMG_1503.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you have cute little people in your home I'm sure they'd be happy to help you rinse them off!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2qNqO3WJSi3LX4o8zJ-1mX-yE0XK0y_2yuc8RKtw9tUaSOCS5FDaWabRQF1Hqx5Yac321CwlMeAVaVqOYLtlsurGpRrl2i8t9lWvjcE7FniSy5Pepug-pJOJCxgmtKsZvFSJW0LkxtM8/s1600/IMG_1492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2qNqO3WJSi3LX4o8zJ-1mX-yE0XK0y_2yuc8RKtw9tUaSOCS5FDaWabRQF1Hqx5Yac321CwlMeAVaVqOYLtlsurGpRrl2i8t9lWvjcE7FniSy5Pepug-pJOJCxgmtKsZvFSJW0LkxtM8/s320/IMG_1492.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After washing, cut apples into 1/4 sections.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1-sbokCqBTtz0Zaxu5ZAxHzlq0uujq9UpZvyaJZcft-q1aLT8aL-1CmShamRH6oRpU9iUfkX2OwapiqobUVyE6YraIc1q9e2-srRhOdMuO4XeHOlY6ITO4y2VaUw8i5RxgQcxR7lO44S/s1600/IMG_1496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1-sbokCqBTtz0Zaxu5ZAxHzlq0uujq9UpZvyaJZcft-q1aLT8aL-1CmShamRH6oRpU9iUfkX2OwapiqobUVyE6YraIc1q9e2-srRhOdMuO4XeHOlY6ITO4y2VaUw8i5RxgQcxR7lO44S/s320/IMG_1496.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then lay each section on it's side and cut off the middle part with the seeds. Then cut each section into 2-4 slices depending on your preference. I did not peel my apples.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCspTH3JkFD_2IDgocsSDRIqKRLG51QoP2QORsZDbKkLikmae7o7WIoA6NEsAX7nJ-F4JBnbL1_nHUf6jHRb1l6M8kDtIoA4M1Rxp49HTADQpU_v3y_yYc3FgwwRhTmyYcTlvWygThwZ_y/s1600/IMG_1495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCspTH3JkFD_2IDgocsSDRIqKRLG51QoP2QORsZDbKkLikmae7o7WIoA6NEsAX7nJ-F4JBnbL1_nHUf6jHRb1l6M8kDtIoA4M1Rxp49HTADQpU_v3y_yYc3FgwwRhTmyYcTlvWygThwZ_y/s320/IMG_1495.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After slicing each apple I added them to a pot of cold water with 1 tsp vitamin C powder to keep them from browning.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMMJXsJyZmIU_WRmXtRVVDf2cIySum1Bk-t9eAh98Jz9T0VbxnpgB5LsDNAyRNgukci_Q0xfuGpnQfClKj059yv6YEcV3vBymfneEKl069JqY6LQBSqk2uGtWbJb3t8gXU1qyF5leZ8J44/s1600/IMG_1500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMMJXsJyZmIU_WRmXtRVVDf2cIySum1Bk-t9eAh98Jz9T0VbxnpgB5LsDNAyRNgukci_Q0xfuGpnQfClKj059yv6YEcV3vBymfneEKl069JqY6LQBSqk2uGtWbJb3t8gXU1qyF5leZ8J44/s320/IMG_1500.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIbrQNvGU7-Yhyphenhyphenqokf934bZ2fB7t1qWQ8Di9yfNFIVy4yVMQ46MZm9-0-ZNe6vARestTl6VuqlGsUDszGIrwsx8jL5sCLhmD9t35H1lgs2YSPt59rCSC8hAuM3eNM9d6ykGEHhnrow0iJ/s1600/IMG_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIbrQNvGU7-Yhyphenhyphenqokf934bZ2fB7t1qWQ8Di9yfNFIVy4yVMQ46MZm9-0-ZNe6vARestTl6VuqlGsUDszGIrwsx8jL5sCLhmD9t35H1lgs2YSPt59rCSC8hAuM3eNM9d6ykGEHhnrow0iJ/s320/IMG_1498.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Save all the scraps for your chickens or farm animals if you have them!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEh9ws7n8omJGsKrT35-yVojLh-s59pK_-Wf40XKdhVbMWd9_DycSqqBbymZHv0y3BBjUZ9oVRnvANCLUjSXXtbKCqvXUxON_cQZg8fohReRiORTWB56M_p4FP6VbmNdi8TvAUi__qVFhk/s1600/IMG_1493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEh9ws7n8omJGsKrT35-yVojLh-s59pK_-Wf40XKdhVbMWd9_DycSqqBbymZHv0y3BBjUZ9oVRnvANCLUjSXXtbKCqvXUxON_cQZg8fohReRiORTWB56M_p4FP6VbmNdi8TvAUi__qVFhk/s320/IMG_1493.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Put only a slight amount of water in bottom of pan to keep it from scorching. Turn on medium high heat and let apples soften. Then use a hand blender, food processor, or Vitamix (that is what I used) and blend it up to the consistency you want.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLntu43WkdzcKgOCJKwbslz-Zi2M5zaHgWXIvYWlwSeID63oocK4TiOtVdg36sk78OLUeSikq7Y5roqSgYdMSpkhW9rXWkVawmgFt1THM_Wle6CivvksDFayYKEVc2PphCH1IW89Shcba_/s1600/IMG_1494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLntu43WkdzcKgOCJKwbslz-Zi2M5zaHgWXIvYWlwSeID63oocK4TiOtVdg36sk78OLUeSikq7Y5roqSgYdMSpkhW9rXWkVawmgFt1THM_Wle6CivvksDFayYKEVc2PphCH1IW89Shcba_/s320/IMG_1494.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
(Forgot to take a picture of this step) Now it's time to boil the applesauce for 20 minutes! Don't start the timer until there is a consistent boil (it won't boil like water of course but it will be splattering). Be careful as it's easy to get burned with hot applesauce. This is also perfect time to turn up the heat on the jars so they can get sanitized!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pull out your hot jars with the gripper device and set on a towel, use the funnel and ladle to add applesauce to each jar. Take a wet towel and wipe the edges of the jar top. Follow this by adding the lids from the simmering pot and then hand tighten the rings on. Use the gripper to put hot jars back in the water. Make sure they are fully submerged in water, add the lid, bring to a boil and let boil for 20 minutes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrjAucAdUJKGAzqor4tnnQr5nIE5RKsnPYf0MbOpwVzvh1HlpSDRYOAZO4QGDClfMKHM9s4jVmWPTpmhqqCwWgk1DBahzavrfPx1JkKdKGM4GWu-N8G4Rwe2UXUUOXpb6fp4QVT6HTXVwO/s1600/IMG_1507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrjAucAdUJKGAzqor4tnnQr5nIE5RKsnPYf0MbOpwVzvh1HlpSDRYOAZO4QGDClfMKHM9s4jVmWPTpmhqqCwWgk1DBahzavrfPx1JkKdKGM4GWu-N8G4Rwe2UXUUOXpb6fp4QVT6HTXVwO/s320/IMG_1507.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After timer goes off, turn off the heat, take off the lid and let the jars sit in the water for another 5 minutes. Then pull out with the jar gripper and set on a towel. 22 pounds of apples made 8 quarts of applesauce. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijo-Vz85bVVF70FSw9HK2AV3xuIWEUXm7YAU8D4gdW6MHmsgKDVjmgbQLl_7z2JVqW5H0YWCzPSZrRho0H7e8-r0psetv_FvXKlRK6oYLch7XVL3xPteedRv17jetdnMnbo-lHhNQlfgn/s1600/IMG_1506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijo-Vz85bVVF70FSw9HK2AV3xuIWEUXm7YAU8D4gdW6MHmsgKDVjmgbQLl_7z2JVqW5H0YWCzPSZrRho0H7e8-r0psetv_FvXKlRK6oYLch7XVL3xPteedRv17jetdnMnbo-lHhNQlfgn/s320/IMG_1506.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lastly, tidy up the kitchen as it will look like a bomb went off afterwards! LOL and feed those scraps to your animals!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsChqCyikGuBcj27t6BB52-Mgi_JdY2ktL8kZeBwy3dn10lbuOxaMbUI8XgJ-Za4cDhMTY_6pT7C3cGUslAlOecuFyK7Ebq0blc8AQmALhGfzUnT3iGb0yshxsWdSn37nnaNk73cgpNio3/s1600/IMG_1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsChqCyikGuBcj27t6BB52-Mgi_JdY2ktL8kZeBwy3dn10lbuOxaMbUI8XgJ-Za4cDhMTY_6pT7C3cGUslAlOecuFyK7Ebq0blc8AQmALhGfzUnT3iGb0yshxsWdSn37nnaNk73cgpNio3/s320/IMG_1491.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You most likely will make a few mistakes your first time around...just try to follow each step and do your very best. Hmmm what shall I can next?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<div id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 6.85pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130433610173311030.post-34062422003674369132013-07-15T18:53:00.000-07:002013-07-18T12:21:22.211-07:00A year of running tribute!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="motivation" class="pinImage" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinimg.com/736x/7e/f9/d0/7ef9d03392ccfc3c9df2e498f50bc021.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px;" width="400" /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
This blog post is in loving memory of my Grandpa Woody who passed away in November of 2011. My grandpa was a very active runner, walker, hiker, bicyclists, and archer all of his life!! Even after losing a leg to diabetes he continued to go, move, and stay active. He didn't let not having a leg stop him! My sweet and amazing Grandma still gets out and walks miles upon miles every day...even though the love of her life is not with her anymore! I am so thankful for their example in my life of being fit, healthy, and staying active even in their later years! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6g9uU4D9UN9vhpOTK9m03FopSVGrNCqR71uS02gINn8-t01IrvXqsTAVEwa1RTwLvNawns81Ja38UoUeDyGutNVVYfjY4fFUWwIo2vEFRACa8GePjUHYOwqZcDtmhOTFwHBPjHcLrgNN/s1600/2008+(40).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6g9uU4D9UN9vhpOTK9m03FopSVGrNCqR71uS02gINn8-t01IrvXqsTAVEwa1RTwLvNawns81Ja38UoUeDyGutNVVYfjY4fFUWwIo2vEFRACa8GePjUHYOwqZcDtmhOTFwHBPjHcLrgNN/s320/2008+(40).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Tomorrow marks the one year anniversary of when I started running!! If you don't know me I should tell you this is a huge thing to celebrate because I never thought running would become a part of my life like it has! Running was for crazy people and didn't look fun in the least to me. I was happy and content to sit on my couch thank you very much!<br />
<br />
Since my first day of running I have put in 665 miles. I have ran in a 5k, 8k, 10k, and half marathon race. It has been a year full of challenges, overcoming obstacles, setting goals, running in the rain & cold, reaching goals, gaining speed, having personal records, surpassing what I ever thought I was capable of, growing in so many ways, did I mention running in the rain and cold, and developing a stronger work ethic than I ever had before running. I wanted to take a moment and reflect back on this past year and the things I have learned and the people who have made such an impact along the way!<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
To start with I need to thank my sweet friend Rachel...if it were not for her I am not sure I would even be writing this blog post. She was willing to meet up with me in the beginning, when running wasn't even in my vocabulary yet, and walk with me (and run for those 30 second increments full of huffing and puffing). She believed in me! She encouraged me! She kept me accountable! And she was willing to go with me at my very snail pace! Rachel and I did not have a deep friendship starting out but running brought such an amazing bond and depth to our friendship. We started out living in the same town and so running together was a regular thing...now we live several hours apart and running together is a special treat. But we have managed to still get in a few runs/races together. I'm so excited (and still in shock) to be running our very first marathon together!! I am so thankful for you Rachel my sweet sista!!! You always have uplifting and wise words when I am having a rough day. I love our silly moments and late night laughter when we are together! Looking forward to seeing you again soon! Big hugs!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmUkrqy8FEOj-F4uD3HD2c8e0VPybm7WYSdLMu61Zub6eguAStLSGptL2t_th1xUVq0wszYlJ64Gm9OSCuweddxJGTq7IdECyyz-8d4n3f0Zzm5Zkm-oNfjyiPW_HUDekeZPX6yshiW5ML/s1600/Baldhillrun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmUkrqy8FEOj-F4uD3HD2c8e0VPybm7WYSdLMu61Zub6eguAStLSGptL2t_th1xUVq0wszYlJ64Gm9OSCuweddxJGTq7IdECyyz-8d4n3f0Zzm5Zkm-oNfjyiPW_HUDekeZPX6yshiW5ML/s320/Baldhillrun.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jKQggRSC6Oc7SKN7LvSLi9uIzPFjehog_VcjN_jN_r86-HUn3kUjHPNBQL2X8LHcv-gZ89zye4T2s1rsNUFTrwhCOWerxvij5xqTTYZe9DxqYI6RYdThTs_sXHQsaM6EoWZ8G9lSssZb/s1600/Reindeerrun2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jKQggRSC6Oc7SKN7LvSLi9uIzPFjehog_VcjN_jN_r86-HUn3kUjHPNBQL2X8LHcv-gZ89zye4T2s1rsNUFTrwhCOWerxvij5xqTTYZe9DxqYI6RYdThTs_sXHQsaM6EoWZ8G9lSssZb/s320/Reindeerrun2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
There have been a few other amazing friends along the way who have been such an inspiration and encouragement to me: Anna, Sandi, Sarah, Harmony, & Melanie....thank you so much for all the times you have ran with me, signed up for races with me, challenged me, and been such faithful friends in my life! You each mean the world to me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaMDoOp5K6ikcnnqhdfy7pbhcVdxbXRnSxAjWEOwLvBds5tysbidBYeBfS760qBNLX7xH6HMHFEZ_wcya9I-43rQluIYrfILj620nR-gr9aeJ6SRsx60u6rNGpu_QTttf3m9bp1Wxns6y/s1600/Andrea+and+Anna.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Anna-thank you for being my long run day "partner-in-crime" and for being willing to train with me for my marathon...and putting in some crazy long miles alongside me! I am brought to tears thinking of your faithfulness and support in my life. You were at my side for one of the hardest years of my life and I can not thank you enough for your support during that season! It's been so much fun doing life alongside you!! I am beyond blessed by you!! You have the kindest, sweetest, most giving & sincere soul!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaMDoOp5K6ikcnnqhdfy7pbhcVdxbXRnSxAjWEOwLvBds5tysbidBYeBfS760qBNLX7xH6HMHFEZ_wcya9I-43rQluIYrfILj620nR-gr9aeJ6SRsx60u6rNGpu_QTttf3m9bp1Wxns6y/s1600/Andrea+and+Anna.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaMDoOp5K6ikcnnqhdfy7pbhcVdxbXRnSxAjWEOwLvBds5tysbidBYeBfS760qBNLX7xH6HMHFEZ_wcya9I-43rQluIYrfILj620nR-gr9aeJ6SRsx60u6rNGpu_QTttf3m9bp1Wxns6y/s320/Andrea+and+Anna.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jfrYiLdzYTv4IDMngjcQXFRp8yz8z0iVsU8n6TQsggbp0JC47OTxFzGyLNF8gJJBSoilkrUUCWtBahHDZDMjVKR4DkwGvyqtrhngynHH2CEPzpWadLTNu1URVrbyh8qKcYssCLsrHVS3/s1600/IMG_0204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jfrYiLdzYTv4IDMngjcQXFRp8yz8z0iVsU8n6TQsggbp0JC47OTxFzGyLNF8gJJBSoilkrUUCWtBahHDZDMjVKR4DkwGvyqtrhngynHH2CEPzpWadLTNu1URVrbyh8qKcYssCLsrHVS3/s320/IMG_0204.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Sandi - I love running with you and spending time with you and your family! I love running side by side and all of our conversations and laughs we have had. You were there alongside me for my very first race as well as several others...and many more to come I'm sure!! Thank you for being so genuine, transparent, funny, and a treasure of a friend! P.S. I'm excited to teach our running class, "Got the Runs?" at our homeschool co-op together!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjknLpxi1kdnx1WjlRQkMuaDuW5SIsRZ7OFx1PgD_S_Yc8dC9cYneJAqxuJBz_HDNcwDV6sLD9gFyRubAO_o3jG7XfMT_Sauak84RLcT1MSuRjUxDEdEmf0YAAE10Li-hVea2GLXiHKN63Y/s1600/Heroesforhope1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjknLpxi1kdnx1WjlRQkMuaDuW5SIsRZ7OFx1PgD_S_Yc8dC9cYneJAqxuJBz_HDNcwDV6sLD9gFyRubAO_o3jG7XfMT_Sauak84RLcT1MSuRjUxDEdEmf0YAAE10Li-hVea2GLXiHKN63Y/s320/Heroesforhope1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjUuYlleTiA5Pp6Ac9SjCOGrONxnFs12I-82yoQs1xasFVnf_RN1QX83m5_UO4io4FbbCYW3F-3BCyaI7-tOm2W3bsi4f5PaOD6okaVKz99h6I4RDshXCtoxEBZXvQ_wVUsQ7oI2xCybG9/s1600/trailrun1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjUuYlleTiA5Pp6Ac9SjCOGrONxnFs12I-82yoQs1xasFVnf_RN1QX83m5_UO4io4FbbCYW3F-3BCyaI7-tOm2W3bsi4f5PaOD6okaVKz99h6I4RDshXCtoxEBZXvQ_wVUsQ7oI2xCybG9/s320/trailrun1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
Sarah - Due to our husbands different working schedules we haven't been able to run together as much as I would like. But when I think of my running partners you are high on the list!! I love your energy and excitement for life. You have the most contagious joy and personality about you. You are hard working and do so many things I only hope/dream of doing someday!! I also love to spend time with you and our families getting together! I know running has had it's own challenges for you but you should be so so proud of what you have accomplished!! Even when running isn't an option you still find ways to stay active with hiking, walking, riding your bike, etc...!!! You inspire me in many ways...so thank you for that Sarah!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqEIQcXfwBiyxjCAwrh-2QJOX52aluBlKfSNf2raLHaRirf3ZzkzIopke114gLNwBm5VJbc5v-OFFdQi_1afs_Cc9hgy4HBkdB5R_fmG8bIfo8nr3pJBfwX5bJ6uSVkGdAHQEtay54FkV/s1600/IMG_0400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqEIQcXfwBiyxjCAwrh-2QJOX52aluBlKfSNf2raLHaRirf3ZzkzIopke114gLNwBm5VJbc5v-OFFdQi_1afs_Cc9hgy4HBkdB5R_fmG8bIfo8nr3pJBfwX5bJ6uSVkGdAHQEtay54FkV/s320/IMG_0400.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZWZK6hnnZVjc_k2b8ShD1DwU3bTFy8Urzl0qbQw29OKDhV42gpSi38LL-8mtGM2kUev0Dz8xxtQydMPwActitKibbg5U5opDJjXENgVQIFjTNLj9maPVkWlt4aH_H9p3Q0oqvdsUtIM5/s1600/IMG_0712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZWZK6hnnZVjc_k2b8ShD1DwU3bTFy8Urzl0qbQw29OKDhV42gpSi38LL-8mtGM2kUev0Dz8xxtQydMPwActitKibbg5U5opDJjXENgVQIFjTNLj9maPVkWlt4aH_H9p3Q0oqvdsUtIM5/s320/IMG_0712.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Harmony.....oh my sweet friend of almost 15 years. I admire you so much. I wish we were able to run together more often but I am so thankful for every chance I have to come down and have coffee with you (and on a rare occasion run with you!). I am looking forward to October when we get to run the Astoria bridge together!! You bring a tremendous amount of laughter and love into my life!! You are one of the most beautiful people, inside and out!! So many memories with you that I hold close to my heart! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfV0Z4aByXuwkdaqb2EJKwruGUXNTkbUnbNnbxxUnczKQxmGqpTqBMiVxQUhQBzaLvtRze5Ej0eO4Vz9nlbOgP3P3IMZeAD2eiGSPKRKCXcdJ9BoY1rDQUSgWsYdXZuO2H7tH9UsgKhKs4/s1600/IMG_0593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfV0Z4aByXuwkdaqb2EJKwruGUXNTkbUnbNnbxxUnczKQxmGqpTqBMiVxQUhQBzaLvtRze5Ej0eO4Vz9nlbOgP3P3IMZeAD2eiGSPKRKCXcdJ9BoY1rDQUSgWsYdXZuO2H7tH9UsgKhKs4/s320/IMG_0593.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG0Y4ZpTrIXmjXQjF0xooV1c9JnaYqyvZTVwYZ7aTixAmIpUZcIlC6q_EnOx-d46mC_RqEPiFgcbQMW6aXVOTpxoMh-9GYOn1S1QZR9Cm1sExwXjZFZUZe3C4cFPKQK61miQKQFeBqgtdV/s1600/Salmoncreektrail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG0Y4ZpTrIXmjXQjF0xooV1c9JnaYqyvZTVwYZ7aTixAmIpUZcIlC6q_EnOx-d46mC_RqEPiFgcbQMW6aXVOTpxoMh-9GYOn1S1QZR9Cm1sExwXjZFZUZe3C4cFPKQK61miQKQFeBqgtdV/s320/Salmoncreektrail.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie - You are one of those crazy running people I mentioned above!!! And when I grow up I want to be just like you!!! You are a precious person with the biggest heart. Thanks for all your inspiration and the example you set of loving the Lord and putting all your trust in Him, even while walking through some of the hardest and most painful things in the last few years!! I am blessed immensely by you and your beautiful smile, heart, and personality!!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Fc_4XLtk_q3JCfm4YujBlw6QO5yxbzG09Q8D5RhqAWXF3dyEwrSBYrit2qi-BedO2_iJhJfnkWmG26ycfAt6TXZiwIEV6olepedkUdEW-NbcsK9G7NmCQUI8e3pJDk7ZH652tHDnCJVM/s1600/Heroesforhope4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Fc_4XLtk_q3JCfm4YujBlw6QO5yxbzG09Q8D5RhqAWXF3dyEwrSBYrit2qi-BedO2_iJhJfnkWmG26ycfAt6TXZiwIEV6olepedkUdEW-NbcsK9G7NmCQUI8e3pJDk7ZH652tHDnCJVM/s320/Heroesforhope4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am also blessed to have the most amazing and supportive family! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To my sweet husband, who has been a long time runner himself, thank you for all your support, cheering me on, and help watching the girls whenever I go running or have a race! I look forward to getting to run a race with you one day soon (that is NOT something I would have ever said a year ago!) I love you so much babe!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5jIaHl5tiln1TJVsweL6qM1P6996r3I_Em_y0Zz8vsZLBmizdWRe1heFEiJCae_7ARWSLeQZxOL3q1AHvTTlnIUGqaJb_p0x0S3DFxTyG3JdAtD0ZY7Kqtog0YvPhX9FIL-E-i49KSpk/s1600/Heroesforhope3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5jIaHl5tiln1TJVsweL6qM1P6996r3I_Em_y0Zz8vsZLBmizdWRe1heFEiJCae_7ARWSLeQZxOL3q1AHvTTlnIUGqaJb_p0x0S3DFxTyG3JdAtD0ZY7Kqtog0YvPhX9FIL-E-i49KSpk/s320/Heroesforhope3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNPB0u1-TfH7O-aFrtnJ6qnNzYYeUgrl1ZWEAXTRESA56zoU7UwvIfyFAeh79hYGXvhGxPjdWkIylNwxKYe-p7O12jlMe5ka1-2JolG_HUNIiPXJYb5oQIQeMcVyicNQQltKa1y20Le0b/s1600/550902_10150877049138240_1067961602_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNPB0u1-TfH7O-aFrtnJ6qnNzYYeUgrl1ZWEAXTRESA56zoU7UwvIfyFAeh79hYGXvhGxPjdWkIylNwxKYe-p7O12jlMe5ka1-2JolG_HUNIiPXJYb5oQIQeMcVyicNQQltKa1y20Le0b/s320/550902_10150877049138240_1067961602_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To my girls, and future runners of America, I am so thankful for each of you. You girls rock and I love all of our runs/races we have done and will do together. I have no doubt you'll be passing me up very soon!!! I love you so so so so much! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbV1t6v7eLocOV4oUMEC_9UkexxFXtSdO0Sh2xjBKg-sT24pmOZ89O-9zXiqyRj3uscRfQ5IJFcl07zcO085BG7SqFqiBrLJi5gLOmxsCYLGyI0wv_KsOdPS_JEG_PSuVZZAI_JgV2-dY/s1600/girlsontherun2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbV1t6v7eLocOV4oUMEC_9UkexxFXtSdO0Sh2xjBKg-sT24pmOZ89O-9zXiqyRj3uscRfQ5IJFcl07zcO085BG7SqFqiBrLJi5gLOmxsCYLGyI0wv_KsOdPS_JEG_PSuVZZAI_JgV2-dY/s1600/girlsontherun2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJy41Y8hi80YrTWNm4VD8kH6zhHwDPS6b9pJ8nxTNa-ge2_2Xswys-1q_RBsCOdfdJ8Frqh3Z_PjKF8If09JnHeNMMHpKlBYUcycNNGlfgZBjcDDfj3soTTRm7w1TAP0CV4VwMngv0dYH9/s1600/before+Spartan+Race.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJy41Y8hi80YrTWNm4VD8kH6zhHwDPS6b9pJ8nxTNa-ge2_2Xswys-1q_RBsCOdfdJ8Frqh3Z_PjKF8If09JnHeNMMHpKlBYUcycNNGlfgZBjcDDfj3soTTRm7w1TAP0CV4VwMngv0dYH9/s320/before+Spartan+Race.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvJO4qEFq5Wy6J0B6YNmVZCTRkiCKkEG0pGOoPmwOQcO5-FPLDsHFSOe8L3ao9tESo1QxcO3ywLKcyuSURHYncjYpTzbSPeXUZrv2AmXgMEOC9STt2P8ffmIIW3NuKAwZ3uUlJqXjE_qr/s1600/spartanrace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvJO4qEFq5Wy6J0B6YNmVZCTRkiCKkEG0pGOoPmwOQcO5-FPLDsHFSOe8L3ao9tESo1QxcO3ywLKcyuSURHYncjYpTzbSPeXUZrv2AmXgMEOC9STt2P8ffmIIW3NuKAwZ3uUlJqXjE_qr/s320/spartanrace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To my parents, you have also been such a major support, encouragement, and help with the girls so I can get my runs in! Thank you for being there to support me at my very first 5k race and then surprising me and showing up to cheer me on as I crossed the finish line of my first half marathon. Thank you for all the ways you bless my life!! I love you both tremendously!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="400" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/19466_105539289465596_2748662_n.jpg" width="316" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
</div>
As I look ahead to the next couple months and the year ahead...it's a busy season. I already have another few 10k's, one, maybe two, half marathons ahead, and something I never in my life would have imagined I would be doing...a MARATHON. Wow I am tired just thinking of all that hard work and training ahead of me. I wouldn't trade it for anything though...running has done so much to improve my life physically, emotionally, mentally, & spiritually. I have learned how good hard work, dedication, commitment, perseverance, and not backing down even when it gets hard feels like. It feels GREAT!! Mostly, I have learned that I like being a part of the "crazy" running crowd...they are some pretty amazing people!! One year of running down....only 50 more years to go!<br />
<div align="center">
<img alt="Change your life" class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinimg.com/736x/b9/9d/12/b99d1292e2171b025cfc36a239dfe137.jpg" style="height: 244px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 400px;" /></div>
<div align="center">
<img alt="First you feel like dying then you feel reborn" class="pinImage" height="267" src="http://media-cache-ak1.pinimg.com/736x/7e/97/70/7e9770e67504fdeef4ec855dab6eb0a9.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto; padding: 9px 0px;" width="400" /><img alt="run smart not hard" class="pinImage" height="300" src="http://media-cache-ak3.pinimg.com/736x/7c/2e/49/7c2e4957a181633cee05e4350d574712.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px;" width="400" /><img alt="Truth" class="pinImage" height="300" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinimg.com/736x/dc/c3/43/dcc34380c24fadb51174d946fca96d2b.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px;" width="400" /></div>
<div align="center">
<img alt="." class="pinImage" height="256" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinimg.com/736x/ca/3f/00/ca3f00e2e186cff7948a3220f9d75b0c.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px;" width="400" /></div>
<div align="center">
<img alt="The only thing that makes IT impossible is you saying it's not possible." class="pinImage" height="266" src="http://media-cache-ak2.pinimg.com/736x/9d/fb/d8/9dfbd82137cf0be59ef3fa9165471422.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px;" width="400" /><br />
Ok time to find some tissue and wipe away all these happy tears! I feel so incredibly blessed by the people the Lord has put in my life!!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">UPDATE:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">A photo from the run I took on my one year running anniversary:</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxYr8oCDXm5_pRYxP-enjFzKVShfdMC9rsSlxqFN_tdOn7OjDWx3-Iz7vUyDa3N4rBMKaTITkMMRuwC4aPjtsohDCxfzd3-dpNIjlAf5rag7Xea3B7h4aaD5yMpB5g6yd6qiJ8XuSLDHOQ/s1600/oneyearrunanniversary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxYr8oCDXm5_pRYxP-enjFzKVShfdMC9rsSlxqFN_tdOn7OjDWx3-Iz7vUyDa3N4rBMKaTITkMMRuwC4aPjtsohDCxfzd3-dpNIjlAf5rag7Xea3B7h4aaD5yMpB5g6yd6qiJ8XuSLDHOQ/s400/oneyearrunanniversary.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Left to Right) Sandi, Anna, and myself</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div id="yiv7498966715yui_3_7_2_31_1372301991696_51">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="3" closure_uid_3ild4a="3" closure_uid_935ce0="4" closure_uid_ba7zn6="4" closure_uid_fyff9i="3" closure_uid_o3s9zd="24" closure_uid_pz2ffa="6" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/MC9004391791-1-1-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please </span></strong><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheHomeschoolingJourney"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Subscribe</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;"> here if you don't want to miss upcoming posts or find me on </span></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/thehomeschooljourney"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">!</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 6.85pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1pbvvn="4" closure_uid_3ild4a="4" closure_uid_935ce0="5" closure_uid_ba7zn6="3" closure_uid_fyff9i="2" closure_uid_o3s9zd="23" closure_uid_pz2ffa="5" src="http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i327/Triplegirlmama/BeckoningFrolicText_-2-1.jpg" /></a> </div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
triple girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639929071079723949noreply@blogger.com1