January 2007

The Last Day of Bow Hunting

01/31/2007 09:28:38 AM



Joyfulmama

Can you see the intensity in James' face, knowing that it's up to him, and Joseph, to provide for the family?! ;o)



And, is that depression we see in Joseph's face, at the prospect of, what if they don't (all for naught..... sitting in the woods, freezing all afternoon, no reward... no steaks, no stews...)???!?

While James is one million percent great guns for hunting, cold of winter, dark of early morning, rain, snow, deer, or no deer......

Joseph, on the other hand, is merely (making a choice to be) determinedly one hundred percent into being a devoted brother! While James hunts, Joseph faithfully goes along with his brother (in freezing cold of winter, dark of early morning, rain, snow...) to sit and *read a book*! He's only holding the gun for the photo!

I guess the question to be asked here, is...

Has anyone ever killed a deer by throwing a book at it??

I guess the book would really pick up some momentum if it was chucked out of a tree stand. But then again, I guess it would depend upon how high the tree stand was in the tree, as well as how close the deer was *to* the tree. Hmmm, I guess you might have to factor in the strength of the book throwing arm, and whether or not the "hunter" has devoted much time to practicing his "aim" with the book :o)

You have a great day :o)

The Girl's Kittens

01/30/2007 10:45:44 AM

Rosie and Julia's kittens. Sisters, that had been abandoned by their mother and needed to be bottle-fed 'round the clock for several weeks. The girls are so grateful to have them.

In this photo of the kittens on the piano, the grey kitten on the left is Rosie's, and her name is Cosette. The Calico on the right is Julia's, and her name is Mischa-Mina.

And, for those that are interested in what we're sewing:

Rosette made her dress, and another seamstress made the one that Julia is wearing (she made it for Rosette a couple of years ago! Isn't Julia growing?! Wheww!

Rose, is really fond of the Regency period and it's long, feminine empire waist gowns. She's made many of them. This one's made in a small blue-checked linen/cotton blend fabric that 's nice and substantial yet has a really lovely drape. Another thing that she enjoys making is the Chemisettes to fill in the necklines of the Regency gowns, making them more of an everyday dress. Here are a couple of those that she's sewn up. It's been fun experimenting and dreaming up different types to make, and getting decked out in them!

I hope this note finds each of you and those dearest to you, well. The Lord bless you and keep you, throughout this lovely day.

Two of the Aunties

01/28/2007 09:41:01 AM



Joyfulmama

I thought I'd station these two little aunties above Josie on the blog, to keep watch over her :o)

I thought it might be fun for everyone to get a chance to look for any family resemblances. How about that adorable dimple-in-the-chin situation that Josie and her Auntie Celeisa share.

Okay, til tomorrow, Lord willing.
And.....I'm off, like a bird on the wing!

Grammy's little Darlin'

01/28/2007 09:05:07 AM



Just a quick hello this morning.
The little ones have been popped in the tub to soak and play together, with Julia watching over and reading aloud to them while they do. The rest of us are scurrying about making food, making beds, doing dishes, getting clothes ready, packing the diaper bag, and getting things situated for a full and busy day away. We're off to fellowship with a number of other dear families for the day; a shared meal, singing, praying, looking into and sharing God's Word, together. Rosie's made 2 big pans of lasagna (and her lasagna is delicious :o) and Julia is going to whip up a big batch of brownies, soon as I head on in and take over at her tubside post. Wesley and Claire will be there, with Josie. I so look forward to spending the day with them. What a joy it is. Speaking of whom.......

Yesterday, Big Papa and I went for a nice long drive in the country, and before heading home stopped in for a visit at their cozy home. Julia and the little ones were along with us. When we got there, Josie was curled up sound asleep, in the bedroom. Meanwhile, all of her noisy little aunts and uncle settled in, making themselves at home and making a fair amount off noise (trying to wake her up??) out in the living room, playing with her blocks and toys. I had a nice visit with sweet Claire, who was just a bit baby sick--but despite the fact, looked lovely, and Big Papa chatted away with Wesley about his business.

The very good news was that Josie did wake up just before we left!

I got these photos of her just before we left. I made her a little jumper out of a cotton, leaf-printed fabric, with a pair of linen bloomers to go under it, and knit this moss green, cotton hat for her, to go with the outfit. I'll be taking photos of the outfit, and wanted to get a couple of the hat (which is at her house, and is of course way cuter on her head than sitting on the table, being photographed). So I was glad that she cheerily obliged me (wouldn't you say so?!) on my way out the door!

Rosie, made a matching outfit for Celeisa, though, I'm still working on her hat, as I kind of set it aside getting side-tracked by other things, including a different hat! Hopefully, I'll get Celeisa's hat finished, soon enough, and get a few photos of the two littlest love bugs in their matching outfits, to share.



A Chubby-Cheeked Tongue Twister
*************************************

She sells seashells by the seashore.
Surely, she shall sell seashells by the seashore.
Shall she sell seashells by the seashore, someday?
Surely, someday she shall :o)

I hope each of you has a beautiful day :o)
Sending much love your way.....

'Tis especially pleasant, the life of a peasant

01/27/2007 09:38:23 AM

Here is an outfit that Rosie made for herself; a natural-colored linen skirt and a peasant blouse of a lighter colored embroidered linen fabric.

This is also Sophia's first machine-sewing project: her long, full skirt. She was mighty proud of this skirt, and rightfully so. It's so cute on her! She's made a few more since then. Sophia's green peasant blouse is actually one I made for Julia many years ago, now passed along to her little sister. I wonder how many more little sisters will get to wear it!

And, litte Aimaija, such a sweetie, too. Love these precious girlies!

The Red Dress

01/26/2007 08:07:12 AM

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

I thought some of you might enjoy seeing some of the children's sewing creations. This is the red dress that Rosette made for herself, for Christmas--by combining the elements of several patterns that she has. The skirt and border on the sleeves are a medium weight red linen and the bodice and sleeves are a lovely light red on dark red, vine printed cotton. Can you tell how wondrously warm it was the end of December? So nice.

My, how swiftly the pendulum swings from one extreme to the other! We are indeed all snugged in our winter woolies, today--I'm afraid there'll be no walking the road for me. The sun is shining in all it's glory, but not quite enough to lure me (translated--drag me :o) out there to walk, today! Brrr....it is COLD.

I've already decided that I'm going to try not to think about my mom and dad (who are no doubt far thicker-skinnned than I am, and have no doubt already gone and returned from *their* walk-- hhmmmph---freezing temperatures or no. Or, my lovely neighbor lady (that lives a couple of blocks over, in "bird land", where, yes, all the streets are named for birds, that I always admiringly refer to as, *Little Faithful* (who is especially slim and little--since she does walk SO *faithfully*! She who will likewise be out, despite the strong, cold north winds blowing, right there, on *my* very road, Yeah, right under my nose--not quite so easily blocked out by the **guilt-o-meter**, as the merely mental imaginings of my mom and dad doing the same, some 1,000 miles away :o)

Well anyways, (tongue clucking ;o) I've no doubt, being one of those "apples that didn't fall very far from the tree", that I'll be just as faithful and committed as my mom and dad, (cough--cough....when I'm old. That's right. And, well, that said, I guess I won't think about how faithful *they* somehow managed to be, way back when they were "young" like me :o)

A winsome whisper of white

01/26/2007 06:35:45 AM

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Rosie out and about in the early morning stillness, drinking in it's loveliness...tending to the ducks, chickens and geese....

The identities of the Hopefuls revealed :o)

01/24/2007 06:59:04 AM



uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Good morning :o)

I tucked an extra photo of Sophia in at the end, so that you could see her adorable first big knitting project, close-up. She made her hat with some help from mama and Rosette along the way--with Rosette finishing up the decreasing at the top. Let me tell you, she is p-r-o-u-d of this little hat! You can see her artistry on the front--she knit it on circular needles, and occasionally picked it up and knitted in the wrong direction. We left it, and it ended up being it's *crowning glory*!

And again, for those interested in what we're sewing:

Julia sewed up the little polka dotted smock that Aimaija is wearing in the top photo. Also, Rosette whipped up the feathered Robin Hood cap for Nicholai and one for his faithful companion, Chubb. They've had many adventures beneath them, since the giving of them :o)

I was so tired by the end of the day, yesterday that I could hardly keep my eyes open during supper! I hit the hay early and slept like the dead all night, with just a few dreamily remembered awakenings to nurse Celeisa! It sure felt good to sleep :o) I'm up, fresh as a daisy (well, nearly fresh as a daisy!) and ready to go.

We're finishing up chores, the boys just returned home from their early morning paper route, and the girls made them a big hearty breakfast.

Rosette is practicing the piano--the girls have piano lessons late in the afternoon, today.

Sophia and Aimaija are busily playing *sisters* as the older children scurry about finishing up their morning jobs.

Little Celeisa has just these past couple of weeks begun playing things like *sisters* and *little house on the prairie* (and is of course baby carrie when she does get in on the action!) with them, which is very cute.

My, it is so hard to believe she's nearly 1 year old already! Seems such a short time ago that I was in the hospital in the midst of *the grand adventure* with the placenta previa complications and then the c-section. Where did the year go??? I've been thinking so much about my birth, lately, as Valentine's Day--and Celeisa's birthday (which will now always be such a special day for me) draw close. Seems I not only gave birth to a treasured little baby girl, on that day, but that a whole new part of me was born as well. Ahhh, life truly is a marvel is it not..... so many experiences, so many precious people, always changing, in perpetual forward motion--never standing still......

I read the Bible with the children first thing in the morning (my favorite time of the day with them, which usually results in a loud and lively hoo-rah-rah over something :o), after chores are finished--beds made, laundry is going, things situated for lunch and supper preparations, and all the animals are taken care of. After that everyone gets busy with their schoolwork--which goes on til about a half hour before lunch time--fast and feriously for the older ones and slow and turtle-like for the littlest ones and mama, curled up on the couch for a good while reading together--then some phonics and math and memorizing all the good stuff they'll one day be so glad to have stored away.

I'm going to head out in a bit to get Aimaija's first few photos printed out for her Alphabet Book and get that underway. Sophia will be beginning *her* book--The Ones I Love, and Nicholai will be making a Number Book, for the littler ones, so........stay tuned for some photos of those :o) Our photo books have been some of the children's greatest treasures over the years. I marvel at how quickly the time passes by and their little books become jewels of precious memories. I'm so thankful for the gift of photographs, to remember all the things I am so busy doing that I would be sure to forget--the things that will be dearest to me when all is said and done.

All righty, I hope you have a wonderful day.
A loving hello from us all :o)

Cc is for Cookies--Aimaija's Alphabet Book

01/23/2007 10:45:41 AM

Aimaija is making cookies
Aimaija is making cookies with Sophia

Cc is for Cookies

***********************************************************************************And, for those of you interested in what we're sewing.....

I made the little jumper for Aimaija
and Julia made the little butterfly smock for Sophia

*******************************************************************
Notice that Julia is busy serenading (the cookie bakers) away behind the scene :o)

Lots of computer troubles, today, so I'm thankful to have been able to squeek a post in!
I'll be back when the computer is once again happy--which will hopefully be s-o-o-n.

The sun is shining for all it's worth here, today and it's just beautiful! A little dusting of snow, too. Not quite enough for everyone's liking, but more than yesterday--very pretty.

Well, Rosette and I are off to go shopping and run some errands with all the little ones.
I hope you have a wonderful day :o)

The Christmas Hats

01/22/2007 08:25:13 AM



uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Here we have three of the brothers and Big Papa in their Christmas hats.

I'll try and get a photo of Wesley and his love bug, Josie, in their matching hats to share also :o) And *that* will be something to look forward to! Get ready to be majorly cute-ified :o)

So, here we have, from left to right:

Rosette made the hat for James
Julia made the hat for Chubb
Chubb made Big Papa's hat and.....
Chubb also made Joseph's hat

Julia made a hat for Wesley and a matching hat for Josie.


I'll knittle a little,
I'll knittle a while,
And when I am finished,
It'll give you a smile.

I'll think of you during,
From when I've begun,
I'll think of you all the while,
Til I am done.

***************************************************************
I'll try to write a note later today, and share about the wonderful day we had yesterday.

We'll be baking cookies today. "Why??", you ask :o) Well... so that Aimaija can move on along to the third letter of her Alphabet Book--Cc Cookies :o)

So.... stay tuned for some delicious cookies hot out of the oven, and tall glasses of creamy, cold milk fresh from the milk farm, in just a bit!

In the meantime, the day is young and there's lots to be done around here; dishes to wash, floors to sweep, laundry to be folded, math problems to be worked and stories to be read, soup to be made, a little bit of sewing and a little knitting, too, as time allows.

I hope you have a truly lovely day; treasuring those that you love dearest and best, telling them today, what you may not have the privilege of telling them, tomorrow, holding them close and letting them know that you love them--just as they are-- for who they are, being free and generous with life-filled words of kindness, understanding, and praise. May you make your way slowly and deliberately through today--drinking in all the joy and wonder that it holds.

.... I'm off to share with the children some of the great and wondrous things God shared with me, during my time in His Word, earlier this morning :o)

My heart is like a singing bird--Christina Rosetti

Much love to you all.

P.S. It's snowing here, today--loud hurrays are echoing through the halls.

Alphabet Book---B is for Bible

01/21/2007 05:44:41 AM



uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Aimaija is reading her Bible.
The Bible is the Word of God.
The Bible is God's love letter to us.

Bb---Bible

Aimaija is reading her Bible, and hiding it's words in her heart.

Bb--Bible

**************************************************************

And, what we're sewing...

Julia made this little reversible smock and the matching reversible
pants for her sweet buddy, Aimaija :o)

Mystery Photos----Hopeful Number One

01/20/2007 10:07:59 AM



uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Hopeful Number Two

01/20/2007 10:06:41 AM



uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Hopeful Number Three

01/20/2007 10:05:01 AM



uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Hopeful Number Four

01/20/2007 09:59:42 AM

uploaded by Joyfulmama.

We were recently given a pair of boots, by a (well meaning) friend, that fit no one (okay they kinda fit me, but ... they're not really my style :o)

Well, it so happened that as soon as they hit the scene certain-- EVERYbodies, here fought to claim them as THEIR very own---insisting adamantly that "yes, they DO FIT"!

Thus, the Mystery Photos. Who do **you** think should have the boots (for the 2 hours of ownership, before they go to the thrift store, for all there to oogle and oggle and fight over!)??

As 'tis said--"a picture paints a thousand words".

I've kindly concealed the identity of those vying for ownership, out of consideration for those of you that would hold back your true thoughts and opinions, for fear of showing partiality, and will reveal the identities of the wearers early next week--to give you time to consider and make an honest decision :o)

P.S. And, as I sit here reading your minds, in advance of you opening this whole "can of worms"---- I want to make it perfectly clear that ONLY those that take the time to vote will be considered as the recipient of the boots, following the 2 hour ownership/and in lieu of the thrift shop--something you might want to consider, if you, like the afforementioned resident EVERYbodies pictured above, find that desire welling up inside of you at the sight of them!

If in the end, the boots *do* go to you, please be advised that NO local pick-up is allowed for obvious reasons (they might be little, but they're tough, and they will NOT be happy about you takin' *their* boots!) which means you will therefore have to cough up the money for postage (**and handling**--to cover the cost of all the grief these boots have brought me :o)

I hope each one of you has a beautiful day.

A is for Apple

01/20/2007 08:27:16 AM



Aimaija eating her apple, wearing a little reversible smock that Julia made for her.

Aimaija is making an Alphabet Book

01/20/2007 08:11:44 AM



uploaded by Joyfulmama.

Aimaija is making an Alphabet Book reader--a photo book, with a few simple lines of writing, written out by Nicholai and Sophia, and some border doodling done by her. I thought you might enjoy it if I posted a letter a day, here.

Aa--- Apple.

Aimaija is eating a big red apple.

Aa--Apple

A few punny things the children and I chuckled over, today--compliments of James :o)

01/19/2007 12:20:12 PM

**I wondered why the baseball was getting bigger. Then it hit me!
**When fish are in schools, they sometimes take debate.
**A bicycle can't stand on it's own, because it's two tired.
**There was once a cross-eyed teacher who couldn't control his pupils.
**A boiled egg in the morning is hard to beat.
**The man who invented the door knocker got a no-bell prize.
**He wears glasses during math, because it improves division.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Nicholai All Dressed For The Big Celebration...

01/19/2007 11:55:25 AM

And waiting for his one true love, who's *somewhere* 'bout 16 or so years, or more, down life's long, adventurous road.... :o)

Our Beloved Josie Wondernose

01/19/2007 09:16:57 AM



Josie wonders--about everything!
She wonders over people, and butterflies, candles, kitties, dogs, sunlight and wind........
Anything interesting; colorful, bright, shiny, anything that moves.......sets her to wonderin'----our precious Josie Wondernose!

Nestled Inside Little Mama, is Another Priceless Treasure

01/19/2007 09:15:12 AM


Claire, shared the joyous news with us--that she has another precious little one, hidden away and growing, in her womb! She and Wesley are over-the-moon with delight. We all are!

Precious little Josie doesn't know what splendor and adventure lies ahead for her--especially, beautiful Wondernose that she is! There could be no greater treasure for such a happy, busy, overflowing-with-the-wonder-of-life little gal, than the gift of a real live baby; a little brother or sister, to love and be loved by.

Thank-you, God, for blessing us all with this little child, that will be so very loved, by so very many. Watch over them, tenderly. Fill Claire's heart, throughout the moments of each day, to overflowing, with Your life and love for each one in her beautiful family.

You are so very good, indeed--always, in all ways, and I love You.

And a Side Shot of Her Little Wooly Bonnet

01/19/2007 08:02:03 AM


uploaded by Joyfulmama.

How about that sweet little ducky profile??!! I know, too cute! :o)

A Hat I Just Finished Knitting For Celeisa

01/19/2007 07:59:11 AM




A wee, cozy wool cap that I made for my tiniest flower.
She's wearing her cute little flowered smock that Julia made for her.
I'll try and get some photos up of those other recent creations--from Christmas etc... I've been talking about, now that I have the photos "streaming right on in"!

Sleep, My Duckling...

01/19/2007 07:20:00 AM


Sleep my duckling in the rushes
While the winds are blowing.
Where is your father,
Where is your mother,
To sing you into slumber?

Sleep my little duckling in the rushes,
Night winds rock you gently.
Sunshine will warm you, waves will cool you,
God will care for and love you.

Finnish Folk Song

My Littlest Mouse, Snugged In Her Nest

01/19/2007 07:16:14 AM



The house of the mouse is a wee little house,
A green little house in the grass,
Which big clumsy folk may hunt and may poke
And still never see as they pass--
This sweet little, neat little, wee little, green little,
Cuddle down hide-a-way house in the grass.

Marlys Swinger

My Little Corner Of The World

01/19/2007 07:02:41 AM



A bit of a glimpse at my corner, where I spend lots of time with nursing/sleeping/playing little ones on my lap, and round about me; reading, knitting, sewing, writing. And, a peek at the incredibly thoughtful, and loving gift----of the beautiful green and clear stained glass panel that the children surprised me with last year. It's far more beautiful in real life! Not the best of pictures, but I thought I'd stick it in. If you look closely, you can see Celeisa's leg pokin' out of her little hanging nest, there in the background. I'll post a couple of close-up shots of her contentedly dreaming away in it, at one time or another.

The Treasures Minus Four

01/19/2007 06:13:05 AM



Rosie, Joseph, Chubb, James, and Julia holding Celeisa.
Littles in the front...Nicholai with his arm around Sophia...
and the sweet shortling...Aimaija. December 2006

The Treasures Minus Nine

01/19/2007 06:09:26 AM




Wesley, Claire, Josie, and their littlest one (safely hidden away, in the secret place, and growing) inside her loving mama's womb.

Monday, Monday.....

01/08/2007 01:13:48 PM

It's a foggy, rainy, winter Monday. One aspect of dark, rainy days that I especially enjoy is having candles lit all around. The soft glow of the candles, throughout the day makes everything nice and cozy and spurs everyone on to relaxation and creativity, myself included.

I've been working away on a little Tomten jacket that I'm knitting for Aimaija, that I'd post some *work in progress* photos of, if only I could get things squared away in that department-hopefully soon :o) It's really so simply and uniquely made, that I can't wait to try out another one in different yarn soon as I'm finished with this one! I know I'll have plenty of little folks waiting in line for one, right behind Aimaija :o)

The little ones have been drawing, being read to, and building and playing with their wooden blocks and animals. The boys have been reading, and Julia, Rosie, and I are going to do some sewing after we're done with lunch. We're working on matching outfits for Celeisa and Josie Wondernose-- little jumpers made out of a lovely leaf print cotton fabric, with bloomers and a coordinating tie-back closure blouse, both made out of a soft yellow linen fabric. One of the outfits is done, so we're working on the other. It's an adorable european pattern that we're using--so cute! I've also knitted little matching hats out of a nice soft, sage cotton yarn for them, to go with their outfits. We're hoping to get some photos of Auntie Celeisa and her (big-huge) little neice Josie! Hey......what are candles for inspiration compared to irresistibly cute babies and little ones all around?

We're also hoping to finally, this afternoon, cut out a nursing dress that we're making for Claire--and her precious Cargo. Her dress got put on hold during all Christmas and New Years gift making. I know she'll be so excited to have it done. We're shooting to have it finished by next Saturday.

Saturday afternoon was a nearly too-beautiful-to-be-true, bright and sunny, 70 degrees! Honestly it felt just like a summer day. We were headed for a quick trip to Ikea, for a couple of small things, just Big Papa, the little ones, and me. Big Papa, called Wesley to say hello, and to our delight....... he, Claire and Josie decided to head out and join us there. It was alot of fun. I was *really* tired and did *alot* of laughing over Wesley's antics--he's without a doubt my favorite comedian.

Yesterday, we went to the home of some dear friends, for church--5 families, lots of children--from babies to adult--it was a full house! There was feasting on delicious food (oven-fried chicken, baked beans, mashed potatoes, desserts....) and fellowship; game playing for the children, gingerbread cookie baking and eating, ladies with nursing/sleeping babies in their arms, and little ones beside them, sharing together while knitting, and the men having a big discussion gathered round the living room. It was a very beautiful time, singing, reading, praying, together--loving and caring for each other. We got home mid-evening, everyone so encouraged and blessed by the day, but really tired out, too.

It was a nice, full and busy weekend, but it sure does feel good to be back into the more simple, quiet rythym of the week--a peaceful Monday-- rain and candles, beautiful music, a sleeping/nursing treasure in my lap, stories being read aloud to little ones by older sibling that love them, schoolwork being done, knitting, sewing and writing projects in progress, lots of conversation and laughter. How I do cherish the simplest day-to-day things of this life.

I hope you have a lovely day, also.
Jewels

A Day In Our Home

01/05/2007 08:24:54 AM

Well, my foremost reason for starting this blog, is to be able to share more intimately with my dear mom and dad, who are so far away from me, the actual happenings of my life, my family, my home from day-to-day, in an effort to include them and make them a part. Thus the inclusion of this specific category. Who but your mom and dad would find interest in knowing that you went to the grocery store, or you did phonics with your 5 year old, did your dishes, or laundry, cleaned off your back porch, baked cookies, made pasta and sauce with meatballs for dinner, and/or maybe even what you're wearing today? No one, really, I suppose! :o)

It's been a bit of a muddle for me to get things figured out. Not so much the technical aspects (though they have held their own unique challenges for me--for sure :o) but the actual writing, as my mind is always a-swirl with wondrous (not that everyone or even *any*one else would consider them wondrous :o) things that time and an organized mind permitting, I might like to say. Just journalings, really, that's all.

Sharing your heart via something so vast as the internet, (hmmmm, g-u-l-p..... if you're even s-u-p-p-o-s-e to--be sharing your h-e-a-r-t, via something so vast as the internet, right? :o) will take some getting use to. Maybe it will end up just being photos, facts, and news, I'm not really sure.

I'm still making my way from a lifetime of paper journaling, for a beloved audience of One--my loving Heavenly Father. We'll see.

Somehow, it does seem that all things considered (that for the sake of brevity I'll not go into, here) and me being me, I may very well not be able to forgo the writings that no one else will really find of interest; the musing and meanderings, the mind traveling, the thoughts that filled my mind while awake with the baby throughout the night, and maybe that's okay. I guess I'll just muddle along write a little here, a little there, the best I can, and see what comes of it.

Home, Sweet Home

01/05/2007 07:38:52 AM

The Home Circle may be, ought to be, the most delightful place on earth, the center of the purest affections and the most desirable associations, as well as the most attractive and exalted beauties, to be found this side of paradise. There is one vision that never fades from the soul, and that is the vision of mother and of home. No man in all his weary wanderings ever goes out beyond the overshadowing arch of home. Let him stand on the surf-beaten coast of the Atlantic, or roam over the western wilds, and every dash of the wave or murmur of the breeze will whisper...Home, Sweet Home

From The Golden Gems of Life
Gathered Jewels For The Home Circle
By Ferguson and Allen
1882

Simply lovely Christmas

01/03/2007 04:19:51 PM



Christmas was simple, quiet, and lovely. I think the best part for everyone is the gifts that the children make for one another. Each child draws a name from among the siblings, and either makes a gift for them, or tries to find something creative or handmade for them.


This year, just about everyone was knitting and hats seemed to be all the rave! Rosie, knitted a hat for James. Julia, knitted a hat for Wesley. Chubb, knitted a hat for Joseph, Chubb, also knitted a hat for his Papa,, and Julia knitted the very same hat for Chubb, so that all the brothers and Big Papa could have the very same hat! As part of her gift to Wesley, Julia also knitted a wee hat for Josie, so she could don hers with her daddy. Confusing? Yes, I'm sure it is. I'll see if I can get a photo up! Then it will all make sense. It will. I know it will! ;o)

Joseph gave Chubb a bird feeding kit; large pinecones and coconut shells to cover/or fill with suet and/or peanut butter (both also included) and twine for hanging. James gave a gift of the same great stuff to Claire.

And....back to hats.... Claire knitted and felted the cutest wool crowns for Nicholai, Sophie and Aimaija.

Rosie and Julia, sewed Little House on the Prairie dresses and bonnets for Sophie and Aimaija, too, and made Robin Hood hats for Chubb and Nicholai. These wil make for hours of imaginative play!

There was feasting and merry making, game playing, dancing with babies and little ones, the Christmas story read aloud and lots of beautiful hymn singing. A couple of dear friends shared Christmas day with us.

Rosie, knitted a pair of big, warm wool hiking socks as a gift to Big Papa from all the children (I promise a photo of these, too ;o), and the children blessed me with the gift of a beautiful mobile made mainly of fossilized wood, driftwood and seashells--I just love it!



And below, the lovely stained glass piece the children so kindly gave me as a gift, last year. It's situated above my favorite cozy corner, and I enjoy it immensley, every day.

Lately, I've been thinkin'......

01/03/2007 07:46:23 AM

I can so often be found, thinking, thinking, thinking--traveling hither and yon, in my mind. I seem to spend a great amount of time, in thought; pondering this or that-- from the entirely practical and utilitarian, to the most fascinatingly mysterious of supernatural life in and of, God, composing letters that sadly, due to time limitations,will most likely never be actually written down and given, singing to myself, designing projects--before they're begun, puzzling over during, and re-designing after--set on correcting my mistakes from the first go-round :o), writing stories and/or songs, journal entries that may or may not ever make it to my journal, praying for those I love, miss and care for, whispering love and adoration, as well as pain and confusion to my dearest friend, Jesus.

My life is so busy, at this point, the days fluidly flowing from one to the next, almost imperceptibly. In the midst of all that transpires in any given day, I seem to spend a great deal of time, travelin' the corridors of my mind, where I can freely drift ore the boundaries of borders and time--all without ever leaving the comfort of my favorite rocking chair!

And, well...... lately I've been thinkin', thinkin' about my mom and dad--my with my mom and dad, as my mom and dad, past, present, and future-wise, lingering long at each rememberance, and in my heart, thanking God for the precious gift of each of them.

Though I always think about them both, each day, this is something different, deeper, set apart like a colorful kaleidescoping daydream, that washes over me, enveloping me in peace, as time seemingly stands still for this brief expanse of time and my mind is flooded with tender images--countless memories long ago tucked away and forgotten, now retrieved like priceless treasure. How I do I love my mom and dad..........

Time passes from day to day, and here I am makin' my way along through the varied and wondrous seasons of my life-- a woman, wife, mother, and now a grandmother, and as I do there is an ever evolving unfolding, as my love for them just continues to grow and grow; in depth, in understanding, in appreciation, in gratitude for them and to them, for who I am, because of them. Living so far from them isn't easy, and the older I get, and the older they get, the more the distance pulls at my heart.

The Bible says, that from the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. It also says, let another's lips praise you, and not your own. From my heart and through my mouth flow whispered words of sincerest thanksgiving and praise to God, for the priceless gift of my loving, caring, kind, accepting, understanding and giving friends.... my beloved mom and dad.

On with the show

01/02/2007 03:00:34 PM

Rose has said to me, "Too much writing, Mom! Get on with the show!" So, well, I am attempting to move on to life--in living color, with a few photos, and a little less text; a bit of cooking, baking, feasting, sewing, knitting, reading, writing, walking, hiking, playdough making, bird feeding, Littles, Middles and Elders (and *cough, cough*....the Ancients :o) at work, rest, and play.

The sun is surely shining for all it's worth. It's a real beauty of a day! We rolled up our sleeves, and did some deep cleaning of the moving, shaking and re-arranging kind, this morning, after a full and busy weekend. Wesley and Claire were here with Josie for New Year's eve. Everyone had a great time! How I do treasure my precious family--God is so very good.

Rose made a big batch of cookies and everyone had cookies and milk. The little ones just headed outside with Julia, and Chubb--who just set up a big treasure hunt for them--fun, fun, fun.

Rosie, Celeisa, and I, are listening to a cheery folk cd, called "You are My Little Bird", by Elizabeth Mitchell, lighting the candles on the table and beginning to make supper, which will be meatloaf, mashed potatoes, biscuits, a couple of veggies and a big salad.

I've been so busy with the little ones, nursing the baby, and knitting away on a cute Tomten jacket that I'm making for Aimaija, that I purposely haven't hit the road for my walk today. If I don't get goin' by about 20 minutes from now, I I'll have to forgo the walk altogether--we'll see.

Well, off to dance with my "little bird" for a bit.
Have a great day :o)

Her life is a circle of love

01/01/2007 09:12:58 AM

One verse and the chorus of a song I wrote for George's mom, though I've only given her the chorus.

*************************************************************

Patti precious little girl
Brown eyes blonde hair
Her mother and her brothers
How they loved her
Her daddy wasn't there
Wrapped around in one another's
Tender love and care
Through laughter, tears, joys, sorrows, pain and fear
They made their way
And they were a family
Just over there

Her life is a circle of love
A weaving of wonder
The telling of a story
It's the singing of a song
And as her precious family grows
Through her eyes of love
She sees and knows
Her life is a circle of love
That goes on and on and on...

I'll try and write out the other verses, here, too, if and when time allows.

Come away my beloved

12/30/2006 07:26:55 AM

I long for an ever-growing understanding, of the life-giving freedom that comes from loving God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. The Bible says that we love God, because He first loved us. Indeed, He loved us enough to send His only Son to earth as a baby--one of His own creation, to live among us, a life of ministry and servitude, and ultimately die for us, at our hands. His love pursues us, reaches to the hidden regions of our hearts.

When we allow ourselves to be drawn into the arms of the One that is ever wooing us to Himself, we are enveloped by Love, for the Bible says, that God *is* Love, a love vastly superior to human love. The love of God is unconditional, needs nothing and possesses everything, it's a love that desires our greatest good, and has the ability to bring it to pass, a love so complete, that it is not only sufficient for our own every need, but will overflow our hearts reaching out to those our lives touch moment-by-moment, day-to-day, the lovely and the unlovely, likewise drawing them, to Himself, desirous of freeing, transforming, comforting, making whole. 1 Corinthians 13, Galations 5:22-23

This loving God that that wondrously formed us in our mother's womb, knows our downsitting and uprising, every thought before we think it, the number of hairs that are upon our head, our heart and it's motives, He is acquainted with all our ways. Psalm 139

Christianity is a relationship. It's about knowing and loving God. The doing for God can only flow from the being with God, or we take on a burden that God never intended for us, and miss out on the LIFE He longs to impart; the the growth, change, beauty and freedom that is found in Him alone. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. He knows our frame, that we are but dust. He loves us. More than anything He desires us. May we listen to His still small voice as it whispers our name .........Come away my beloved......from the busyness around you, from all that would keep you from Me, however good it may be.......come away........and let Me love you.

The heart of a child

12/29/2006 04:18:37 PM

Awake with fussy, teething Celeisa through the nightime hours--her sweet warmth nestled beside me, she nurses at my breast, finding peace and comfort in this God-given one who loves her day and/or night and delights in tenderly caring for her. Her heart safely trusts in me.

Unable to sleep, I too find a place of quiet rest midst the darkness round about me, in a loving Heavenly Father who neither slumbers nor sleeps, who is the keeper of this heart of mine prone to wander from His side. The keeper of my heart; my hopes, my dreams, joys, sorrows, fears and confusions. He made me, He knows me, He loves me through and through, just as I am, for who I am.

There is a place of quiet rest, near to the heart of God.

The love of Jesus, what it is, none but His loved ones know.

Then shall ye call upon Me, and ye shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart. And I will be found of you....
Jeremiah 29:12-14...

I continually marvel, with "eyes of wonder", at the reality and revelation of God, everywhere--all the time, to those whose hearts, regardless of age are inclined towards Him, in dependence with a childlike trust, longing for a desiring of His good and perfect will, in all things.

Amidst the many doings of my life, it is the be-ing, with this One that loves me dearest and best that keeps me, that sustains me, that causes my heart to overflow with a love that I could never hope to possess on my own. He takes all that I am and am not, and freely gives to me of Himself.

Jesus, I am resting, resting, in the joy of what Thou art, I am finding out the greatness of Thy loving heart.

May I ever be, led by Your gentleness.

May I continually find rest, in Your love.