every season

Get to the root!

2012-01-23T16:12:00.000-05:00

I've been reading a book aloud to Justin and Julia titled, Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends by the Mally Family. A recent chapter encouraged them to find the "root problems" in their relationship.

"In other words, look for the underlying problem. Get below the symptoms that are on the surface and find the real cause." -p.93

Later that evening, Justin was holding his little brother who was discontent at the time. I had to laugh when I overheard him saying, "Joseph, what is the root problem?"

Up in the night?

2012-01-20T05:59:00.000-05:00

This excerpt was just a tad bit convicting, as well.

From the chapter "No Need to Count" in Loving the Little Years by Rachel Jankovic:

"I think it is quite easy for mothers to be tallying up their awake moments in the night so they can be certain just how much they gave. 'I was up for thirty-five minutes at 3:00 a.m., and then he woke up at 4:00 a.m. for another forty minutes! So, basically, I didn't sleep at all last night.' Honestly though, who really needed to know how much they were up? You were just up when you needed to be." -p. 89

Feeling overwhelmed?

2012-01-20T05:52:00.001-05:00

From the chapter "Watch Your Language" in Loving the Little Years by Rachel Jankovic:

"...I had better strike the word overwhelmed from my vocabulary. God gave me this to do. I may not be overwhelmed about it. I can try as hard as I can, and maybe fail sometimes. I can try as hard as I can and fall asleep at the dinner table. I can try as hard as I can and be completely burned out at the end of the day. But I may not be overwhelmed. Actually, I may be overwhelmed, but I may not say that I am overwhelmed! The words have a real power over us. If you say it, you allow it for yourself. You give yourself that little bit of room to say, "But I can't!" - p. 40-41.

Currently

2012-01-19T06:33:00.001-05:00

Reading: Psalms and Loving the Little Years by Rachel Jankovic

Listening to: "Let Go" by Lindsay McCaul

Making: Homemade Lara Bars

Mixing: formula recipe each day

Hoping: our story might encourage others in their own adoption journey

Adjusting: to life with less sleep

Feeding, burping, changing, holding this precious little one...

Joseph at 6.5 weeks

Daddy & Me

2012-01-07T07:16:00.001-05:00

Mild winter

2012-01-07T05:44:00.001-05:00

We've been having a very temperate winter this year. We had snow on November 29th and then we did not see any again until a month later. Even yesterday it was nearly 60 degrees - not something you expect to see in Indiana in January!

The day after Christmas, Jake's mom flew in for a visit. She is the first grandparent to see Joseph in person and she loved every minute of holding him.

"Gram"

Outside on our one snowy day in December

A snowman named "Indy", due in part to the

Indiana Jones-style hat

Inside where it's warm-

Joseph with his Daddy

Nursery

2012-01-04T08:24:00.000-05:00

Joseph's nursery is quite simple. We opted to work with the existing colors of the room (our former guest bedroom) which are colonial gray walls with white crown molding and white baseboards. We did not select a theme for the room, but chose black furniture with some black and white accent pieces.

Pictured here:

Black crib with white sheet and dust ruffle

Black rug

White book rack

Black shelf

Black toy basket

Close up of vinyl wall lettering over crib

Pictured here:

Black dresser/changing table, white changing pad cover

Black and white fabric totes for diapers, etc.

Black mirror and black frames

White sheers with heavy black curtains

One thing we feel this room is lacking is a rocker or glider of some sort. We have brought two different chairs home, but returned them both because they weren't quite right. We may just do without now.

Joseph at 5 weeks

2012-01-04T07:20:00.000-05:00

The story of Joseph's arrival

2012-01-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, [and] for thy truth's sake. - Psalm 115:1

We love to share the story of Joseph's arrival. What a blessed time for us. All glory to God who has worked everything out in His perfect timing!

(To protect the privacy of Joseph's birth mother, I will use her first initial, "M", throughout this post. Additionally, certain sensitive or identifying details have been omitted.)

I am an organized person. I like structure, order, and well-thought out plans. Walking the path of an adoption journey will stretch anyone in this area! There are unpredictable twists and turns, unexpected delays and, sometimes (as in our case), a race to the finish line! At the same time, we trust that the entire process works out according to God's will.

After M selected our family to raise her unborn son, she was very thoughtful to include us in ultrasound appointments. Regular ultrasounds were ordered by her doctor due to some moderate risks with the pregnancy. In total, I attended three of the ultrasounds, though Jake could not due to his work schedule. Justin and Julia were able to attend two of those ultrasounds with me. With each ultrasound, we saw that Joseph was growing well.

The estimated due date was right around Christmas, however the doctor scheduled a December 19th induction. We were able to make arrangements with a family from church who offered to watch Justin and Julia during our hospital stay. I had the diaper bag ready to go by mid-November (remember, I like to be organized and prepared!) I started freezing meals in order to lighten the kitchen duties after we brought our little one home. I knew that as we got closer to the induction date, we would have the nursery completed and we would start to pack our bags.

On the evening of November 29th, nearly three weeks earlier than expected, we received a phone call that M was at the hospital and the doctor was trying to stop labor. We were told not to come right away, but to just be aware. We did not shift into frantic-mode, as we were thinking that the labor would be stopped. We were in touch with our agency and they suggested that we start packing our things. Suitcases came out of the attic, and we began to go through the motions of filling them with clothing and toiletries... still thinking all the while that we were probably not going anywhere that night.

After 10:00 p.m., the phone rang again and this time we were told that M was dilated to 4 cm and the doctor was no longer going to try to delay the labor process. This baby would likely be arriving soon!

Now things turned hectic. Jake thought we should be out the door in about twenty minutes. We had a long drive ahead of us (two hours to the hospital, plus the detour to our friends' house to drop off Justin and Julia). I was a bundle of nerves. What was I forgetting to pack? I want to take a shower first! Our friends are not expecting our children to arrive on this evening! And most importantly, will we make it in time for the delivery?

It was M's desire that we be very much included in the hospital experience. Her hospital plan had been thought through long before this night and everyone knew what to expect. As we piled into the truck and headed for the highway, I was full of anxious thoughts. We especially wanted to be there for Joseph's arrival, as M had hoped.

It was now after 11:00 p.m., and Jake called our friends. He woke them up and said, "I thought we should let you know we are on our way before we show up on your doorstep." They were very accommodating and started their own last minute preparations and knew to expect us sometime after midnight.

This was all very surreal and we still wondered if this might be a "false alarm". A short time later, Jake got a text message telling us that M was dilated further and was receiving the epidural. Now there was no question that Joseph would soon be here!

After midnight, when the date changed to November 30th, it suddenly struck us that it was officially Justin's birthday. We were amazed at the thought of our two sons sharing the same birthday!

We finally dropped the children off around 12:45, after being so warmly greeted by our friends in their robes and somewhat sleepy faces! We told the children to get some rest and that we would call them with an update in the morning.

By this time, we had received another text saying that M was afraid we would miss the birth. We sent a text in response to say that we should arrive by 1:30 a.m. and that we were doing our best to get there quickly. My heart was racing!

We pulled into the parking lot around 1:30. After making our way to the labor and delivery floor, we spoke briefly with the nursing staff. They had been expecting us and were prepared for our arrival. We spent a little time with M, and she was dilated to about 7 cm at that point. She was very concerned about Joseph being born a few weeks early. The nurses assured her that he should be fine. They were prepared to administer oxygen to him, if necessary. Earlier in M's hospital stay, she had been given an injection (steroid) to help with Joseph's lung maturation.

After a while, one of the nurses took us to the room where we would be staying. It was M's desire that I be in the delivery room and that Jake and I have our own separate room so that we could be the primary caregivers following the birth. The hospital staff embraced us and supported us according to M's wishes.

Labor stopped progressing and Jake was able to get some sleep for a couple of hours. I only nodded off for a few minutes, as my mind was too busy racing with anticipation. Around 4:30, we were told that M had been given oxytocin to encourage active labor again. We spent another hour or so with her at this time. She was clearly progressing as she had increased pain and had to focus on breathing through contractions. Around 5:30, we stepped into the hallway while the nurses checked her cervix and started to prepare for delivery. I was called back in to the room once she started pushing.

At 5:59 a.m., Joseph David was born. He did have the cord around his neck, so we give thanks to God for preserving his life! The doctor did a quick suction with the bulb syringe and he let out his first cry! Joseph's nurse observed him briefly on the warming table and saw that he was doing just fine without oxygen. Within a few minutes, she whisked him up and walked him down to our room. Jake and I watched as she did all of the early assessments and measurements. He was wrapped up and Jake held him first. Then he had a bath and I fed him a bottle.

We were in awe of this new little life. We were also exhausted! Yet, there was not to be any rest for the weary. It was time for me to take that shower and for us to get some breakfast, for we had a full day ahead of us...

I cannot disclose many details at this time, but there was a production team arriving because M's adoption story was being filmed for a documentary. We agreed to participate, so our next two days at the hospital were spent with producers, cameras, lights, and microphones wired to our clothing. (We will pass along more information as we are able).

Jake was able to speak with Justin and Julia early in the day and tell them about their new brother! In the afternoon, our sweet friend drove them to the hospital and they held Joseph for the first time. What a precious time for our family. It is so amazing to think that just a little over 9 months after our first meeting at the agency, we had a babe in arms!

After Justin and Julia left, M came down to see Joseph for the first time. She was not ready to hold him, but just wanted to get a glimpse of him and see how he was doing. Later that evening, she returned and we took photographs of her holding him. After a few moments, she said to him, "you need to go back to your mommy now." Thinking of her sweet sentiment still makes me cry every time! M was so amazingly courageous to trust us to raise her precious baby.

I did not get more than a few minutes rest that night, between the nurses coming and going and Joseph's little sounds, and bottles every 3 hours. (Jake made the long trek home each evening to check on the animals and to get some sleep before returning in the mornings... with Starbucks coffee and oatmeal for this tired mama!)

M was legally able to sign the paperwork relinquishing her parental rights at 24 hours post-birth. She was determined that she wanted to sign as soon as she could. The agency counselor arrived that morning of December 1st, along with the film crew, and they were in M's hospital room for quite some time. We were in our own room, continuing to care for Joseph. We sat at a small table in our room, drinking our morning coffee, when one of the producer's assistants came in to say that M had just signed. She had tears in her eyes and Jake and I became very emotional. We hugged and cried as we thought about Joseph's birth mother and the heartache that she must have been experiencing at that time (and knowing that she would continue to grieve for quite some time). It was bittersweet to think of her own pain while also giving thanks unto the Lord for the son that He added to our family.

M would be leaving the hospital that morning, and she was about to come down to our room to say goodbye to Joseph. I was wired with a microphone again and I tried to regain composure before she entered, but when she walked in crying, I just held her and we cried together. She gave us two small gifts for Joseph and thanked us. To think that she was thanking us! We assured her that he would always know that God loves him, that we love him, and that his birth mother loves him. Because this is an open adoption, she also knew that we would be maintaining contact with her through pictures and visits through the years. We are grateful that he will know the young woman who chose life and carried him and delivered him.

When she walked out, Jake and I clung tightly to one another and cried.

We had hoped to leave the hospital that day, as well. Yet, our state mandates that all newborns be screened for a variety of disorders at no less than 48 hours old. So, I slept at the hospital one more night (and actually got a few hours of sleep!) before we were to be filmed leaving the next morning.

The mandatory screening was completed right at 48 hours post-birth and we were free to change Joseph into his going-home outfit shortly after that. We got him strapped into his car seat and were in the truck a little while later. We were reunited with Justin and Julia and were soon on our way home... a family of five!

In the weeks since bringing Joseph home through adoption, I have recalled some parallels from Scripture:

* an only son has been given in a selfless act of love

* like Jesus' earthly father (Joseph), Jacob has embraced our Joseph as his own, and will raise him and train him accordingly.

* Joseph could do nothing to earn or deserve our love, and yet he is accepted and cherished nonetheless.

* God's own plan to rescue the souls of mankind is described as an adoption:

But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. - Galations 4:4-5

As Joseph grows, we hope that the story of his own earthly adoption will move his heart to receive the far greater adoption that God so freely offers.

2012 Greetings

2011-12-31T13:31:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

Love, Joseph (and the rest of us, too!)

p.s. I am now 4.5 weeks old and weigh over 7 lbs.!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T06:46:00.001-05:00

Enjoying a most treasured gift this year ~

the gift of a precious little life

Merry Christmas from our home to yours.

Comfort

2011-12-23T15:38:00.000-05:00

"As one whom his mother comforteth,

so will I comfort you..." (Isaiah 66:13)

Love

2011-12-23T06:52:00.000-05:00

A father's love reflecting our Heavenly Father's love:

"The eternal God [is thy] refuge,

and underneath [are] the everlasting arms..." (Deuteronomy 33:27)

Older Sibling Quotes

2011-12-22T07:27:00.000-05:00

Joseph is now three weeks old and weighs 6 lbs! Since he has been home, I have heard these sweet comments from big brother and big sister...

Justin: "I did not know I would love him this much."

Julia: "The first time I held him was the best day of my life so far"

End-of-Year Wrap Up

2011-12-20T07:13:00.000-05:00

This is a long overdue post! These are some of our November memories to share...

Thanksgiving Day

We spent Thanksgiving with two dear families. Look at these beautiful decorations and desserts!

Yes, that is a bowl full of fresh whipped cream!

Warm apple cider

The following day, November 25th, was warm and beautiful.

I planted garlic that day and then we worked together in the afternoon to put the garden "to bed" for the winter.

Then, four days later... our first snow!

With the excitement of the first snow comes snowmen, sledding, and more! We enjoyed watching Georgie in his very first snow!

Then, later that evening... an unexpected phone call. Scrambling to pack our bags. A drive to the hospital after midnight. A little one was about to arrive about three weeks earlier than expected!

After the holidays, I plan to share more about that night and the days that followed...

Merry Christmas everyone!

Our Blue-Eyed Boy

2011-12-18T10:51:00.003-05:00

Joseph at 2.5 weeks

Joseph David at 11 days old

2011-12-11T19:08:00.000-05:00

We're now a family of five

2011-12-03T09:37:00.001-05:00

Joseph- "God has added" (Genesis 30:24)

David- "Beloved"

God has added unto our family a beloved son!

Joseph David

November 30th

4lbs. 15 oz.

17.5 in.

Justin opening his birthday presents a few days late, with Joseph at his side.

The brothers share the same birthday!

This is the cradle that Jake slept in when he was a baby. Justin and Julia also slept in it over a decade ago.

Justin and Julia stayed with friends during our hospital stay and they worked together to create this "welcome home" banner.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Giveaway Alert

2011-11-25T06:37:00.001-05:00

The Generation Cedar blog is having a fantastic giveaway: Vision Forum gift certificates in the amounts of $100, $200, or $300! Vision Forum carries a large selection of christian books, toys, and other excellent resources.

Currently...

2011-11-22T07:03:00.001-05:00

Reading: Large Family Logistics by Kim Brenneman. I borrowed this book from the library and now it is on my Christmas Wish List. I love the layout of the book; it is such an easy and inspiring read. Great tips for families of any size!

Watching: a little Corgi pup grow quickly (now 7 months old)

Preparing: Thanksgiving food. This includes....

Processing: our homegrown turkeys!

Baking: skillet cornbread

Decorating: a nursery. What joy!

Indiana Territory Capitol

2011-11-11T06:46:00.001-05:00

Established on July 4, 1800, the Indiana Territory was originally made up of a vast land area. Not only did it include what are now the states of Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin, but also most of Michigan and parts of Minnesota and Ohio.

The territory capitol was located in Vincennes and the first Governor was William Henry Harrison, who was only twenty-seven years old at the time. Later in life, at the age of sixty-eight, he would be elected as the ninth President of the United States.

Harrison's home, dubbed "Grouseland", was completed in 1804

The Daughters of the Revolution saved the home from destruction in 1909 when it was in a state of disrepair. They restored it and opened it to the public two years later.

In addition to time spent inside the Harrison home, we also followed a tour guide through some restored buildings which included: Indiana's first public school, early Legislature building, and a printer's shop.

This Adam Ramage Press is now over two hundred years old. Printer Elihu Stout arrived in Vincennes in 1804 at the request of Harrison who wanted the laws of the territory printed.

The Indiana Gazette was a weekly publication which one could subscribe to at a rate of $2.50 per year.

Toyota Plant Tour

2011-11-10T07:40:00.000-05:00

We have a tradition each time my parents come into town: one day is set aside in which we split up for guys/girls outings. For this visit, my mom treated Julia and I to lunch at The Cheesecake Factory and then we went to pick out some things which she wanted to buy for the baby.

It was a work day for Jake, so it was only my Dad and Justin for the guys outing this time. "Grandpa Jim" arranged for a tour of the Toyota plant in Evansville.

A Toyota Tundra in the Visitors Center

Justin trying on the employee safety gear

Sample assembly area - here he is adding rubber stripping to a window frame.

Justin came home and shared many details from his day. One astonishing fact which they learned was that the utility costs for ONE DAY at this facility = $85,000!

Up Next: Our visit to the Indiana Territory capitol.

Shackleton Exhibit

2011-11-07T08:14:00.001-05:00

My parents just departed following a nine day visit with us. Prior to arriving at our home, they had been traveling through the Northeast to see the fall colors, Niagara Falls, and Amish country in Pennsylvania.

We went on several outings during their stay here. The photos below document our trip to the Indiana State Museum. The main focus of our time there was the featured exhibit The Endurance: Shackleton's Legendary Antarctic Expedition. Our morning started with the 40 minute IMAX film, Shackleton's Antarctic Adventure.

Sir Ernest Shackleton (click to enlarge text on sign)

Justin and Julia attempt to calculate position with a sextant.

A full scale model of the vessel which carried Shackleton and five crew members on a 17 day, 800 mile remarkable journey in search of help for themselves and their stranded companions.

Our day included a walk on the canal and further exploration of the museum.

Up Next: Justin's tour of a Toyota factory

Currently...

2011-10-26T17:23:00.001-04:00

Reading: A Love That Multiplies by Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar

Listening to: "For the Good" by Shane & Shane and Russell Moore's message "Stepping Away from the Ledge" - excellent.

Clearing: garden beds of everything except kale. Need to plant garlic soon.

Awaiting: my parents arrival later this week

Cooking: Honey-Baked Oatmeal (saw this recipe in the Duggar's book)

Doubling: recipes and storing up freezer meals

Shopping: Craigslist for gently used baby items

Attending: ultrasound appointments and seeing the miracle of a new little life in the womb

White House tour and the trip home

2011-10-24T08:55:00.003-04:00

On our final morning in D.C., we had the privilege of touring the White House. This must be arranged through a Member of Congress no less than three weeks in advance. A couple of months ago, Jake submitted a request through the office of Senator Dan Coats. In addition to providing social security numbers, etc., you also list the time frame for your D.C. visit. In other words, the White House staff determines which date they will fit you in, and then you plan your week around that. Some other Indiana residents told us that we should not expect to gain entrance at all.

Yet, a couple of weeks before our departure, we received confirmation that we were approved for a tour on the last day of our trip. On that morning, we stood in a long queue line and spoke with the Secret Service twice ("what is your name?", "your date of birth", etc.) and then went through a security screening. Items that are prohibited include purses, backpacks, and cameras (thus, I do not have any photographs of the interior). They do allow cell phones, which must be turned off during the self-guided tour.

We entered through the ground level of the East Wing and, though all were roped off, we were able to view the library, the Vermeil Room and the China Room. Next, we followed the steps to the State Floor where we walked through the following: The East Room, Green Room, Blue Room, Red Room, and the State Dining Room. (You can view an interactive tour here.)

After exiting, Jake was able to capture these photos with his cell phone camera.

At the North Portico, just outside the Entrance Hall

This photo was taken at a gift shop down the street.

After lunch, we started to make the drive westward toward home. An added bonus to the trip was seeing all of the scenic fall colors in the eastern region of the country. We stayed one night in Pennsylvania before making the final trek to Indiana.

I will always fondly remember our days in Washington D.C. - not only for the richness of its history, but for the opportunity to witness it all through the eyes of our children.

Marine Corps War Memorial

2011-10-22T07:27:00.000-04:00

Just outside the gates of Arlington you will find the Marine Corps War Memorial. The bronze sculpture is based upon the infamous photograph taken during the Battle of Iwo Jima.

The Memorial was officially dedicated by President Eisenhower on November 10, 1954, which was the 179th anniversary of the Marine Corps. In 1961, President Kennedy issued a proclamation: that a flag should fly from the memorial 24 hours per day.

For our last dinner on Capitol Hill, we decided to drive back to Barracks Row. We randomly selected a restaurant and it just might be a new favorite for us. Too bad they only have two locations to date! Cava is a Greek restaurant that serves all dishes "mezze" style (small plates). They encourage everyone in the party to place an order for two items and then to dine family-style. We opted to order six small plates and that was plenty of food. Everything was amazing. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. This is a unique idea that we wish would catch on in our area!

Up next: The White House

Last full day in D.C.

2011-10-20T09:21:00.001-04:00

On our last full day in the nation's capitol, we spent a couple of hours at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.

windsurfing on the sailboard simulator

Julia Child's kitchen

Abigail Adam's shoes

Mary Lincoln's dress worn in 1861

Jacqueline Kennedy’s Inaugural Gown, 1961

Michelle Obama's Inaugural Gown

Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz

In 1776 Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence on this portable desk (it was his own design).

A boy can dream

Chess table of John Quincy Adams

Top hat worn by Lincoln on the night of his assassination.

Following lunch, we walked across the street to the National Aquarium. Once you've been to The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California or Sea World in San Diego, your standards are perhaps a little high. Also, of all of the places we visited in D.C., this was the only locale that charged admission. We had great expectations.

It is interesting that it is the longest continuing operating aquarium in the the United States. Overall, however, we were disappointed with our experience there. The entire aquarium is situated indoors on one dark lower level of the Department of Commerce building. most of the tanks consisted of different varieties of fish, though we did watch a snake consume a mouse. Justin was disappointed to not see any small sharks or rays.

The most unique creature on exhibit at this time is a small albino alligator, which is very rare. A small turtle riding on the back of a larger turtle held our attention for quite a while.

The lighting was so dim, that we do not have any photographs worth posting.

Up Next: I figure the Marine Corps War Memorial is worthy of a post of it's own...

Arlington

2011-10-19T07:34:00.000-04:00

Images from our afternoon at Arlington National Cemetery

Eternal flame at the grave site of President John F. Kennedy

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was later buried beside him

Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

Memorials to Space Shuttle disasters (Challenger and Columbia).

Arlington Memorial Amphitheater

Tomb of the Unknowns

Following our time at Arlington, we dined at D.C.'s oldest restaurant, Old Ebbitt Grill (founded in 1856).

Up next: National Museum of American History, National Aquarium, and the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Capitol Dome Tour

2011-10-16T07:51:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday morning, we drove toward the Capitol building. Parking proved to be more of a challenge than we were expecting, which caused us to be late for our scheduled arrival time to Speaker Boehner's office.

While their father looked for parking, two excited children anxiously await to enter the Capitol.

Another beautiful day - the weather was great all week!

After checking in, we made our way to the Speaker's office. One of his "staffers", Annie, greeted us and told us that she would be accompanying us on the tour. She led us to an office in another part of the Capitol where the rest of our tour group was meeting.

There were about 15 of us that would be ascending the 300 steps together. Though 6,000 visitors walk through the Capitol each day, only 40 of those will have access to the top of the dome. Jake was able to arrange this for us because of some connections he had made during his trip in July.

Our tour guide gives some background information before we start the climb.

We learned that the dome we see today is the Capitol's second dome. The first dome, made of brick and wood with a copper overlay, was completed in 1824 (see here). In 1855 Congress decided to replace the old dome. The one we see today is constructed of cast iron.

The painting on the dome's ceiling is titled the Apotheosis of George Washington.

This frescoed frieze is painted just below the dome's windows. It traces America's history from the landing of Columbus to the Wright brothers at Kitty Hawk.

Made it to the top (interior)

180 feet from the Rotunda floor to the canopy.

Don't lean over too far!

More stairs brought us to this view of the National Mall from the top of the Capitol dome.

Supreme Court in the distance.

Jefferson Building: Library of Congress

Following our descent, we returned to the Speaker's office area.

Chatting with Annie on one of Speaker Boehner's balconies.

Next, we were scheduled to meet up with our Congressman (from Indiana's 9th district), Todd Young. One of his staff members escorted us around the Capitol until Rep. Young was available.

Justin poses with a statue of his favorite President,

Ronald Reagan.

One of several Rotunda paintings, Declaration of Independence.

Julia stands on the spot that was once the center of

Washington D.C.

(prior to a portion of the District being returned to

Virginia in 1846).

This marker is found in the original

House of Representatives Chambers.

While waiting for our representative to finish up a speech on the House floor, we saw Speaker Boehner walk by with his security detail. He greeted our group with a friendly, "hello, everyone." The Speaker of the House holds the 3rd most powerful position in our country, as he is second in the presidential line of succession, immediately after the Vice President.

When our representative was finally able to meet up with us in the original House chambers, he graciously visited with us for about twenty minutes.

We asked Rep. Young if we might see his office. He stated that we should because, in his words, "it is your office." Unbeknownst to me, the Capitol has a very large campus (see map here.) We had to walk across the street in order to reach the office.

Longworth House Office Building

Up Next: Our afternoon at Arlington.

First Full Day in D.C.

2011-10-14T06:20:00.003-04:00

After a good night's sleep in our hotel room, we started out for our first full day of site seeing. We parked close to the National Archives building and waited a short time for the 10:00 opening.

Detail of one of the columns

Photography was prohibited in the archives. The Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom can be seen here. In actuality, the lights are kept rather dim and the founding documents are kept under glass in temperature/humidity controlled cases. Being just inches from the original parchments was awe inspiring.

We roamed through some of the other exhibits and made a stop at their fabulous gift shop.

Afterwards, we took our sack lunches to the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Did I mention that the weather was perfect?

Our afternoon was spent at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Pictured below is the Spirit of St. Louis.

Apollo 11

The original Wright Flyer, flown at Kitty Hawk (canvas has been replaced).

A display of vintage flight attendant uniforms.

To wrap up our day, we decided to revisit the Lincoln Memorial in the daylight. We also spent some time at the Korean War Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Just before dark, we made our way to the Jefferson Memorial.

Glimpse of the Capitol again, this time under cloudy skies.

The Jefferson Memorial

Washington Monument in the distance. It is currently closed due to earthquake damage.

View of the White House across the Potomac.

Julia took that photo of Jake and I on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial. From there, we headed back to Barracks Row for dinner. This time we feasted on Cuban food at the Banana Cafe. Very good food! Just before returning to our hotel, we made our way into Pitango Gelato. The gelato ingredients include cream from grass-fed cows and eggs from pastured chickens! The chocolate-chocolate chip did not disappoint.

Up next, Day 3: An exclusive dome tour at the Capitol, time spent with our local Congressman, and an afternoon at Arlington National Cemetery.

First night in D.C.

2011-10-13T07:49:00.001-04:00

It was a long stretch to Washington D.C. from Dayton, Ohio. Once we were within 30- 45 minutes of the capital, we ran into some of the infamous traffic. We arrived around 6:00 p.m. and there was still plenty of daylight left. In the distance, we could spot the Capitol, Washington Monument, and part of the Lincoln Memorial. I remember the children repeating, "am I really seeing this?"

Our first stop was the Navy Lodge and we got all of our bags into the room. Though travel-weary and hungry, we all agreed that a nighttime tour of the city was in order.

We drove toward 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and parked as close as we could to The White House. We walked the remaining distance and saw that the executive mansion was illuminated with pink lights. Jake surmised that this was due to October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We later learned that this was the case (see photo here.)

From there we caught this stunning glimpse of the Capitol building.

Lastly, we stopped at the Lincoln Memorial. The children ran up those steps with such excitement. Their exhilaration that evening will ever remain a treasured memory for me.

On our way back to the Air Force base, we discovered a Capital Hill neighborhood dubbed, "Barracks Row." Marine Barracks, Washington D.C., is located there (established in 1801 - the oldest post in the U.S.M.C.). It has become a popular district of restaurants and shopping. We randomly selected a bakery cafe named Le Pain Quotidien. We decided upon four appetizer sized items (Organic Black Bean Hummus tartine, Roasted Turkey & Avocado tartine, sample plate of fine cheeses and meats, and organic goat cheese toast with thyme & honey). Everything was delicious. Yes, the food on this trip was a big highlight for us all!

Up next, Day 2: National Archives, Air & Space Museum, and various memorials.

The planning

2011-10-12T17:10:00.000-04:00

So, how did this Washington D.C. trip come about? In July, Jake took a two week course in Virginia. During that time, he and several of his fellow Marines spent their one day off touring the Capitol building. Jake also did some other site seeing around D.C. that day. When he returned home with photographs and stories to tell, Justin was excited to hear about all of the details. He was also greatly disappointed that he couldn't be a part of those experiences.

A little later that month, I started asking Jake if there was any way that we might work it out so that our family could go this year. Not only are both of our children interested in Presidential and First Lady history, but they also enjoy learning about our nation's beginnings. Additionally, because we were in the adoption process, I thought it would be best if we could travel before bringing a baby home.

One of the key factors in making this trip happen was figuring out who would take care of the farm while we were away. We had never left the animals for more than one night. Someone came to mind, and Jake approached him with the opportunity. He accepted and we realized that we could start planning our D.C. tour.

In early August, we announced the trip to the children. Their eyes got very big and there were many exclamations of surprise and joy. A short time later, we checked out many library books featuring various landmarks in our nation's capital. Then, the children and I each made a list of the top ten places we would like to see. I had only been to D.C. once before in my life, about twenty years prior. In some ways, this would be like a first time experience for me.

We wanted to keep costs down, of course. So, first and foremost we knew we would drive rather than fly. It would be a 1400 mile round trip. Then, Jake was able to secure a room on an Air Force Base just outside of D.C. This saved us about 50% in lodging costs compared with staying in the capital itself. We knew that food costs could get very pricey, thus we packed breakfast and lunch items so that we would only be eating out for dinner. In the weeks leading up to our departure, Jake started selling some things on Craigslist to help fund our trip. That covered over half of our expenses.

At the last minute, we decided to break our drive up into two shorter segments. We left on Sunday evening, October 2nd and made our way to Dayton, Ohio. On Monday morning, we started out for Washington D.C. - about 7-8 hours away.

In my next post, I'll describe the first night at our destination.

Coming soon

2011-10-11T15:55:00.000-04:00

I plan to start working on several photo-journal posts telling all about our trip to Washington D.C. Life has been slightly hectic lately, but I hope to begin uploading those photos in the near future!

Here is a little sneak preview: our family at the top of the Capitol dome with the National Mall behind us.

Additional schoolhouse photos

2011-10-11T15:45:00.000-04:00

These photos were taken by the sister of one of the "Schoolmarms" at the Simmons School.

Harrison House Tour

2011-09-30T23:18:00.000-04:00

This week the children and I took a tour of the Benjamin Harrison house. Harrison had run a "front porch" campaign from his Indianapolis house before being elected as the 23rd President in 1888.

Even after being elected President, he still preferred the title of "General." He had served in the Union Army during the Civil War

One of his law practice signs

Construction on the Harrison house began in 1874

Presidential china designed by First Lady Caroline Harrison - complete with a border of corn to represent Indiana.

A "Hoosier Cabinet" in the kitchen, named after the

Hoosier Manufacturing Company

In the carriage house...

Justin and Julia on a "whistle-stop" tour with Benjamin Harrison

2011-09-15T08:42:00.002-04:00

You can view photos of our friends' August visit to the farm at this link. The Georgeson's are touring the United States in their motor home for five months this summer/fall.

More schoolhouse photos

2011-09-13T08:12:00.000-04:00

Our day at the schoolhouse began around 9:00 a.m. The head "Schoolmarm" for the day is a homeschool graduate, college graduate, and is now pursuing a teaching credential. The Schoolmarm and her assistant, a family friend of ours (also a homeschooler), planned a full day of indoor and outdoor activities. All of the children present participated in recitations, reading, grammar, math, history, geography, spelling, and much more. Outside, there were burlap sack races, games of "andy-over", metal can stilts and wooden stilts, and more.

The Schoolmarm did an excellent job of staying in character. The year was 1903 and Theodore Roosevelt was our president. Slates were used for working on math problems and cursive practice. A jar of cream was passed around for shaking into fresh butter (later scooped onto crackers for a snack). This is just a sampling of our very full day of living history!

Here are a handful of photographs which give a glimpse into our memorable experience...

Cursive practice

McGuffey readers

Julia awaits her turn to try a calligraphy pen with ink well.

Spelling bee

Stepping back in time

2011-09-12T07:27:00.000-04:00

We received an invitation to spend a day with other homeschoolers at a historic one room schoolhouse. The children were to dress in period clothing and we were to pack a lunch which included food items and wrappings specific to the early 1900s. There were two "Schoolmarms" who planned a full day of lessons and activities (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.)

A little background on the school: Located in Southeastern Indiana, "Simmons School was built around 1879. The school was used until 1907 when all the students of the township were sent to Hawcreek Central School." The building was later used as temporary housing and then for farm purposes (a site for cleaning tomatoes and for storage of tools and grain). By the late 1980s, the schoolhouse was in a state of considerable deterioration. Money was raised to relocate the building to a more central location in town before it underwent an extensive restoration process.

Our lunch consisted of peanut butter sandwiches wrapped in wax paper, hard boiled eggs and apple slices in glass dishes, water in mason jars, and cookies stacked in a towel tied off with twine.

More photos coming soon....

America for me

2011-09-10T09:37:00.000-04:00

We were blessed to hear a young man recite this poem yesterday. He did an excellent job in gesturing with his arms, projecting his voice, and adding inflections. It would cause any to swell with pride in this great country of ours.

"America For Me"

Henry Van Dyke, 1909

'Tis fine to see the Old World, and travel up and down

Among the famous palaces and cities of renown,

To admire the crumbly castles and the statues of the kings,

But now I think I've had enough of antiquated things.

So it's home again, and home again, America for me!

My heart is turning home again, and there I long to be,

In the land of youth and freedom beyond the ocean bars,

Where the air is full of sunlight and the flag is full of stars.

Oh, London is a man's town, there's power in the air;

And Paris is a woman's town, with flowers in her hair;

And it's sweet to dream in Venice, and it's great to study Rome;

But when it comes to living there is no place like home.

I like the German fir-woods, in green battalions drilled;

I like the gardens of Versailles with flashing fountains filled;

But, oh, to take your hand, my dear, and ramble for a day

In the friendly western woodland where Nature has her way!

I know that Europe's wonderful, yet something seems to lack:

The Past is too much with her, and the people looking back.

But the glory of the Present is to make the Future free,

We love our land for what she is and what she is to be.

Oh, it's home again, and home again, America for me!

I want a ship that's westward bound to plough the rolling sea,

To the blessed Land of Room Enough beyond the ocean bars,

Where the air is full of sunlight and the flag is full of stars.

Integrity

2011-09-08T07:46:00.000-04:00

Justin has been reading Hand Of Providence: The Strong and Quiet Faith of Ronald Reagan by Mary Beth Brown. Occasionally, he'll say, "Mom, I want to read you this part." Here is one excerpt that is worth sharing.

"There were also impromptu lessons in ethics," Maureen reflects about those special times. Stopping once at a small general store, they all went inside and, says Maureen, "Michael and I asked dad if we could have some animal crackers to hold us over until we got home, and he happily consented and paid the man behind the counter for a box of them. Well, after about fifteen miles or so, dad could still hear us munching away at our animal crackers, and he figured the box was lasting longer than it should. As it turned out, Michael and I had thought we were each to get a box, while dad had intended for us to share only one-the box he had paid for.

"Clearly it was just an example of poor communication, but that didn't change the fact that the owner of the small store had not been paid his ten cents for the second box of animal crackers. And so, without a moment's hesitation, dad turned the car around and went back the fifteen miles to pay the shopkeeper the dime we owed him and to apologize for the confusion."

This event obviously made a great impression on young Maureen. After sharing this vignette about her father's honesty and integrity, Maureen sums it up by saying, "That's my father for you." -p.112-113

Proverbs 20:7 : The just [man] walketh in his integrity: his children [are] blessed after him.

For future generations

2011-09-06T20:52:00.000-04:00

Several months ago, Justin announced that he would like to start a journal. Yes, this homeschooling journey does have it's sweet rewards! Of course I agreed that he should start one. He keeps his journal on the dining room table and, of his own initiative, will sit down and write in it most evenings. For the most part, his journal has been a record of the day's happenings with a heavy emphasis on the food he ate (that's my boy!)

He gave me permission to share the introduction to his journal...

In April, I decided to start a journal. I want (and need to be) President when I grow up. I am a believer in Christ Jesus, and I believe that God made everything in 6 days. I pray that my children and grandchildren and generations after me will trust in the Lord. Thank you for reading this, God bless you, and GOD BLESS AMERICA!!

(Do you think he's heard a few Presidential speeches??)

Recent Happenings

2011-08-31T14:37:00.000-04:00

We just wrapped up four full days of activity, spanning across 250 miles. First, we took a day trip to Kentucky to visit our friends who moved there from California last year. We enjoyed a wonderful time of fellowship and we even brought the puppy with us!

On Saturday, we spent some time at a local volunteer fire department hog roast/fundraiser. This included a huge buffet of food, a med-evac helicopter landing, and time exploring fire trucks.

On Sunday, we attended church and spent the afternoon at the home of one of the families in the fellowship.

Finally, on Monday morning, some California friends arrived in their motor home and spent the day/night with us. Their family of six is taking a five month long trip! (You can follow their adventures here.)

Georgie's big day in Bluegrass territory.

At the local volunteer fire department's community event...

Jessica and Lisa just before saying goodbye.

Dear family & friends

2011-08-24T20:50:00.000-04:00

As many of you are already aware, we are pursuing a domestic newborn adoption. We have long desired to grow our family and have sensed the Lord leading us in this direction.

After much discussion, research, and prayer, our journey officially started with a meeting at Bethany Christian Services in February of this year. Founded in 1944, this non-profit adoption agency is the nation’s largest. We have been impressed with their commitment to educating and counseling birthparents and adoptive families. Our required home study was completed in late May and our family profile is now available to be presented to expectant mothers.

One day, hopefully soon, we expect to be matched with a woman who will select us to parent her baby. We trust the Lord to make that perfect “match” in His timing. Like many families going through the adoption process, we do not currently have all of the necessary funds in place. The services which our agency provides, including legal fees, will run around $25,000.00. As the result of God’s faithful provision, we have paid $4,500.00 so far toward this total.

It is very humbling to send out a letter requesting financial support. Awkward though it may be, we did ultimately decide to open up this opportunity for anyone who may feel led to contribute. We are grateful that the organization Lifesong for Orphans has set up an account to receive tax-deductible donations on our family’s behalf. Lifesong will later disburse any funds directly to our agency, as needed. *Note: In following IRS guidelines, your donation is to the named non-profit organization. This organization retains full discretion over its use, but intends to honor the donor’s suggested use.

We would also greatly appreciate your prayers for our family as we prepare our hearts and home for the arrival of a new little one. Thank you all for your love and support!

You may make an online tax-deductible donation between now and October 10th at this link. Please make the following notation in the "Purpose" box: Phillips/#2245 adoption. If you prefer, you may also mark your gift as anonymous.

Alternately, you may mail a check to:

Lifesong for Orphans
PO Box 40
Gridley, IL 61744

Please include the following in the memo line: Phillips/#2245 adoption (if you wish for the gift to be anonymous, please note that in the memo line, as well.)

With gratitude,

Jacob, Jessica, Justin, and Julia

p.s. You are welcome to view our online profile, which includes our letter to birthmothers and family photos arranged in a video slideshow.

Cuban Burrito Bowls

2011-08-22T14:09:00.000-04:00

There is an eccentric little restaurant in our town, The Laughing Planet, which serves unique burritos. Justin likes to get the "Pestato" burrito with potatoes and pesto. I have always preferred their "Cuban" burrito. My Dad loves this burrito, too, and it has become a ritual to go out and get him his Cuban burrito when my parents are visiting.

I have been meaning to try to recreate this tasty combination in my own kitchen for quite some time. I finally tried it today for lunch and the children and I were not disappointed. Here is my version sans tortillas.

Cuban Burrito Bowls

3 cups brown rice, cooked
¼ c. barbecue sauce
2 Tbsp. butter
1 sweet potato, cut into ½ in. pieces
1 plantain, sliced on the diagonal into ¾ in. pieces
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
Cilantro, several chopped sprigs
¾ tsp.+ salt
optional: chopped chicken, shredded cheese, tortillas

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp. butter. Add plantain slices and cook 3-4 minutes per side then remove from pan to cool slightly. Melt 1 additional tbsp. butter in skillet over medium heat. Stir in sweet potatoes, onion and salt. Cover and stir occasionally for 10-12 minutes (until potatoes are tender). Add the beans and continue stirring occasionally for an additional 2 minutes. Sprinkle with additional salt, if desired.

Chop plantains and set aside. Stir barbecue sauce into rice (I used Annie’s Naturals). Divide rice into four bowls. Top with potato-bean mixture, cilantro, and plantains.

Alternately, you can create burritos with all of the prepared ingredients.

More children?

2011-08-19T07:51:00.000-04:00

I am still poking along with Stepping Heavenward while Julia finished her copy several weeks ago. In the section I am now reading, the main character has just delivered her third child. Her sister-in-law, Martha, questions why Katherine and Earnest would have wanted more children.

I am sure that some wonder why Jake and I are planning to welcome a newborn baby into our family through adoption. Isn't our youngest ten years old now? Parenthood is such a breeze at this stage! We can sleep through the night, there are no diapers to change, no bottles to prepare, no forethought to packing burp rags, pacifiers, clothes, and more into a diaper bag every time we leave the house. Why start all over again?

Here is Katherine's response to her sister-in-law, and I echo her sentiments.

She says I shall now have one mouth the more to fill, and two feet the more to shoe; more disturbed nights, more laborious days, and less leisure for visiting, reading, music, and drawing.

Well! this is one side of the story, to be sure, but I look at the other. Here is a sweet, fragrant mouth to kiss; here are two more feet to make music with their pattering about my nursery. Here is a soul to train for God, and the body in which it dwells is worth all it will cost, since it is the abode of a kingly tenant. I may see less of friends, but I have gained one dearer than them all, to whom, while I minister in Christ's name, I make a willing sacrifice of what little leisure for my own recreation my other darlings have left me. Yes, my precious baby, you are welcome to your mother's heart, welcome to her time, her strength, her health, her tenderest cares, to her life-long prayers! Oh, how rich I am, how truly, how wondrously blest! -Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss, chapter 18.

Farm Update

2011-08-18T18:11:00.001-04:00

I am long overdue on a farm update. I know that some of you are missing the posts relating to family happenings, so I will try to be a little more consistent with these!

As for the farm, we currently have 50 Freedom Rangers and 7 turkeys on pasture (we started with 51 and 10 respectively. Turkeys, especially, are difficult to raise from poults). We also have dozens of laying hens. Our 21 goats are across the road on our neighbor's property at this time. He has generously allowed us to use a portion of his land again this year, as our ten acres can not sustain that number of grazers. In November, the six male goat kids will go to the butcher. We have already received deposits from customers for some of that meat.

Sadly, in early June, our new little black cat (Halle) was found dead. She was close to the road and we suspect that she may have been hit by a car. She was really a sweetheart and we had just paid to have her spayed, so that was a tough day.

Around that time we were losing a lot of chickens to predators and Jake felt that we needed to consider getting another dog. We deliberated for a while, not wanting to run into some of the same problems that we had with Sophie. We saw an ad for Pembroke Corgi puppies and started to research the breed.

There are two types of Welsh Corgis: the Pembroke and the Cardigan. There are some distinct differences in their body shape and size, the Cardigan being the larger of the two. Corgis thrive in a farm environment, as they were originally bred to be herding dogs. Their coat consists of two layers, the outer-layer being waterproof.

The puppies that we went to look at on June 11th were not registered, thus they were very reasonably priced. We were able to meet both of the parent dogs and we especially liked the temperament of the father. There were only male puppies remaining, and we decided to bring one home.

We've kept the news about the Corgi somewhat quiet, because we felt so terrible about having to find a new home for Sophie. Recently, we have decided that if this new pup does not work out as a protector of chickens, we will keep him regardless.

Georgie at six weeks

eight weeks

ten weeks

Georgie will be sixteen weeks tomorrow. He is a bundle of energy and is a pleasure to have on the farm. I have been working with him on some basic commands and he is improving in his fetching abilities. We have put him on a schedule, of sorts. This is based on the recommendations given in Cesar Millan's books (of which I am reading several). Georgie joins the children for morning and afternoon chores. Julia keeps him on the leash during that time. He is fed after being exercised. In the early evening, we play with him and do a little training.

We are trying to be dedicated to raising a balanced dog! There are many areas that need consistent training (for instance, no herding humans!), but we are already seeing positive results in that he rarely barks and he is overall a loyal, fun-loving dog. Corgis are known for being eager to please their owners, and I do see evidence of that already.

There is a storm moving through the area this afternoon, but I might be able to get outside and spend some time with the little guy before I start dinner. Farewell!

Currently...

2011-08-11T17:43:00.001-04:00

Watching: The Pixar Story (Netflix Watch Instantly)

Listening to: Joy Williams, "The Love of the Lord Endures"

Making: Strawberry Oat Bars (no bake, no added sugar, and deliciously sweet)

Baking: Chocolate Pots de Creme. Perfect for the chocolate lover. I used this chocolate.

Harvesting: Tomatoes for salsa and caprese.

Cutting up: Whole chickens for the grill. It gets easier every time. At a customer's recommendation, I think we'll try this soon: brick chicken.

Celebrating: 15 years since our first date (August 7th).

Planning: Our first family vacation in over three years.

Checking out: Library books and DVDs with an emphasis on the above mentioned trip.

Enjoying: The 80 degree days we're experiencing right now.

More photos

2011-07-27T13:21:00.000-04:00

One of the Local Growers Guild board members took over one hundred photos on Sunday and posted them here.

The Annual Meeting

2011-07-25T14:00:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, we hosted the annual meeting for our community's Local Growers Guild. The event included a tour of our farm and a potluck dinner, in addition to the actual meeting. With Jake being out of state the past couple of weeks, we only had a few days to take care of the necessary preparation. This included moving the animals, cutting the lawn, weed-whacking, purchasing hay bales (an economical way to add outdoor seating, and the hay can later be stored for winter feeding), loading up the truck and trailer with a pile of junk for the dump, general indoor and outdoor cleaning, etc.

When Sunday rolled around, we had a lengthy to-do list for setting up. Jake was busy outdoors, while I focused on some food preparation and a last minute trip out for ice and other odds and ins.

There was a 30-40% chance of rain in forecast, but we did not think much of it. There always seems to be a chance of rain in our area, and it had been many weeks since we had seen a single drop. Well, the dark clouds rolled in mid-afternoon and the wind picked up until eventually it began to pour. It rained and it rained with no end in sight. What to do? Cancel? Try to rearrange everything for an indoor potluck and meeting? We really had no idea how many people to expect, so that prospect was a little frightening.

In the meantime, we realized that the wind had picked up our canopy and blew it across the lawn until it hit a fence. Upon inspection, Jake noticed that one of the support rods was broken. Somewhat bewildered by the rain, we did not act quickly enough on trying to cover or move the hay that had been set out. Thus, it was all ruined (can never be used for the goats).

We determined to go forward with the event after all and started scrambling to prepare for an indoor gathering. Things were hectic to say the least. The children had been very excited about this day, and now they feared no one would come. They could see that their parents were frustrated and discouraged with how the weather was wreaking havoc on our plans.

During this time, they both sat down to write little notes of encouragement which they wanted to present to their father. Here they are verbatim:

I'm sorry that this is hapining but remember that God is in control he has a plan. JM

This is very sad, but God is in control and remember, just keep praying. I love you :) JG

The first guests started to arrive around 4:30 and the rain was letting up a bit. By 5:00 we could see that there was hardly a drizzle and the sky was clearing. With great relief, we could see that the tour could proceed as planned, and later we were able to set up the potluck outdoors, as well. Thank you, Lord!

Here are some photos documenting our day:

Bringing the hay in for extra seating

Jake explains our beginnings with raising goats.

Next, he talked about the challenges and benefits of raising grass-fed goats.

Our youngest attendee. Precious.

The goat kids are nearly four months old now. Some are quite friendly.

Her father's helper.

"Gram" (Jake's mom) is visiting this week.

The tour ended in the chicken paddock.

Following the tour, a delicious spread of food was arranged for all to enjoy. It was suggested that guests bring a dish made with local ingredients. There were some wonderful contributions, including jalapeno poppers with sausage, a variety of quiches, plenty of fresh vegetables and salsas, and we served up our deviled eggs, squash gratin, and grilled chicken.

In the end, we were grateful for the opportunity to open up the house and property which the Lord has blessed us with.

Currently...

2011-07-19T16:37:00.000-04:00

Reading: Where's the Birth Certificate? by Jerome Corsi

Cooking: Mexican Egg Rolls. I had never purchased egg roll wraps before. Julia and I had fun assembling these and they were quite tasty. We'll probably try a different filling next time.

Watching: First Lady documentaries. We enjoyed Jackie: Behind the Myth and Laura Bush.

Driving: to the airport to pick up my husband after his two week training course at Quantico, Virginia.

Harvesting: the last of the romaine and the first of the zucchini. Kale still going strong. Many green tomatoes soon to ripen!

Preparing: for a this weekend's happenings- Jake's mom flies in from California and we're hosting a potluck/meeting/farm tour.

Best Friends

2011-07-17T18:29:00.000-04:00

In the car the other day, Justin was referring to some acquaintances as "best friends." I explained that a best friend is someone that is there for you in good times and in hard times, one who knows you well, and one you can share most anything with. Julia chimed in, "Well, if that's the case, I would have to say you are my best friend, because I feel like you're the only one I can do those things with..."

Currently...

2011-07-05T06:25:00.000-04:00

Watching: Take Home Chef (available through Netflix "Watch Instantly")

Reading: We Rode the Orphan Trains by Andrea Warren. This one was in the juvenile section of the library and it caught my eye. First-hand accounts of an interesting period in our nation's history, filled with photographs and actual posters from the early 20th century.

Listening to: "Jesus Lives" from the Sovereign Grace Risen album. Free download available here.

Making: Clabbered milk (for liquid whey)... and contemplating homemade formula for the little one that we will someday bring home.

Baking: cumin pita chips

Blending: "ice cream" recipes (see here and here).

Roasting and grilling: our first homegrown chickens of 2011

Relishing: firefly season

Harvesting: basil and garlic... and making delicious batches of pesto!

Noticing: the first small green tomatoes growing

Enjoying: a local "pops" orchestra event with a picnic and fireworks finale

Belated Birthday Post

2011-06-24T06:15:00.000-04:00

Julia wondered the other day why she did not see her annual birthday post on the blog. Clearly I dropped the ball on that, so here are some belated thoughts for our now ten year-old girl...

In the days leading up to her birthday, I was praying for her and the words "refiner's fire" came to my mind. I followed that prompting from the Holy Spirit and prayed that God would work in her life to remove any dross, to mold her and shape her, to purify and refine her as silver and gold.

I read out of Daily Light each day, and on Julia's birthday morning, what theme of verses should I come across? Refiner's fire.

"But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he [is] like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap: And he shall sit [as] a refiner and purifier of silver..." (Malachi 3)

"And I will turn my hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin" (Isaiah 1)

"For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried." (Psalm 66)

So, as I pray for Julia, I will ask the Lord to refine her as she grows, that she may lead a life pleasing unto Him. Meanwhile, I pray that He will continue to refine her mother, as well!

In closing, a few fun facts - some of Julia's current "favorites":

Favorite book: Stepping Heavenward

Favorite food: Barbecue chicken pizza

Favorite dessert: Ice cream pie

Favorite pastime: Playing outdoors

Favorite animal: Goat

Favorite color: Dark green

Favorite lesson subject: Reading

Favorite day of the week: Sunday

Inward Peace

2011-06-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

"Four steps that lead to peace", as quoted in Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss (ch. 13)

Be desirous of doing the will of another, rather than thine own.
Choose always to have less, rather than more.
Seek always the lowest place, and to be inferior to every one.
Wish always, and pray, that the will of God may be wholly fulfilled in thee.

Mrs. Prentiss was referencing a chapter in The Imitation of Christ by Thomas á Kempis and Rev. William Benham titled, "Inward Peace."

New food blog

2011-06-20T09:18:00.001-04:00

I just learned of a new food blog that I wanted to share with my readers. The blog name, Immer Wachsen, means "always growing" in German. It was started by a young woman who I met at the church we now attend.

Hannah has a vision to increase awareness among Christians about more healthful eating. She believes that we ought to be the healthiest people of all. Her recipes have a raw-food/whole-food emphasis, though she claims that, "I’m not a strict 100% raw foodie."

Her photography of food is stunning and the blog layout is simple, yet very eye-pleasing. There are only two recipes to date, but she says to expect a strawberry ice-cream recipe soon (using coconut cream), and an ice cream maker is not needed, so I am happy about that!

Most importantly, Hannah has a heart for living out James 1:27: "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, [and] to keep himself unspotted from the world." As her blog readership grows, she hopes to draw more attention to adoption and orphan care ministries.

I hope that you will take a few moments to visit Immer Wachsen and consider following Hannah's blog and perhaps leave an encouraging note. I look forward to her future recipes, especially as summer is now upon us and we are sure to learn of some delicious ideas for using fresh ingredients!

Waiting

2011-06-20T08:50:00.000-04:00

"If the Lord Jehovah makes us wait, let us do so with our whole hearts; for blessed are all they that wait for Him. He is worth waiting for. The waiting itself is beneficial to us: it tries faith, exercises patience, trains submission, and endears the blessing when it comes. The Lord's people have always been a waiting people."

~ Charles Haddon Spurgeon

Conversation in our home today...

2011-06-16T11:23:00.000-04:00

Julia: "Mom, I just want to say thank you for two things. One, thank you for training me to be a godly young lady. Two, thank you for not sending me to public school."

Justin: "Same for me. But I want to add something. Thank you for not letting us go barefoot."

Recipe Contest

2011-06-07T17:12:00.000-04:00

If you have an original recipe which includes olives in the ingredient list, you might want to consider entering Lindsay Olives "Love this Recipe" contest. Click here for more details.

Currently...

2011-06-07T16:52:00.000-04:00

Reading: Reshaping It All by Candace Cameron Bure

Watching: I Want Your Money. Good documentary.

Listening to: Voddie Baucham on the subject of youth ministries at the Sufficiency of Scripture Conference. "The greatest youth evangelism tool in the world is Men's Ministry. You give me a father, we'll have his son... we'll have his daughter."

Trying: breakfast smoothies with soaked oats. I like this one. (The night before, simply stir the oats and yogurt together, cover, and leave on the counter. This helps with digestibility and nutritional availability).

Wrapping: gifts for a soon-to-be ten year old

Harvesting: kale and romaine. Finally!

Finishing: a basement bathroom makeover

More photos from my parents visit

2011-06-06T16:55:00.000-04:00

One of two bike rides

The men went river-kayaking

The ladies stopped at a historic ice cream parlor at the end of a lunch and shopping day. Here, Julia reviews her menu options.

Julia's choice: chocolate ice cream soda

Indy 500

2011-06-05T17:54:00.000-04:00

About a year ago, my dad ordered tickets for all of us to attend the Centennial race of the first Indy 500 (1911). This was not the actual 100th running of the race, because the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" was not held during World War I and World War II.

Jake drove up to the city early on that Sunday morning because he was participating with other members of the armed forces in the opening ceremonies.

We followed behind after breakfast and morning chores. Once we neared the off-ramp that would take us toward the Speedway, we came to stop-and-go traffic (much more "stop" than "go"). It took nearly an hour to get off the freeway. We eventually parked over a mile from the gates and thankfully it was not too warm outside, yet.

The crowds were thick and it took a while to make our way to the correct gate. Once we were in (about 45 minutes before race time) the noise level really picked up and you could feel the excitement coming from the stands. It was a very patriotic crowd and there was a roaring thunder of voices shouting "USA! USA! USA!"

Here are a couple of news photos from the opening ceremonies,

most of which we missed because we were not in our seats, yet.

photo credit: indystar.com

The official crowd numbers are never released, but it was estimated that there were 400,000 or more people in attendance. Our seats were located on the inside of turn #1 at the end of pit lane ("Pit Road Terrace" bleachers.) The crowds here were smaller and more tame, so that was a perk.

We made it to our seats in time to see some of the

vintage Indy cars on parade.

view from our seats

I took this photo of "The Pagoda" shortly before the drivers were told to start their engines.

Indy cars racing by at over 200 mph (with pace car in foreground)

Thanks for the memories, Dad and Mom!

(More photos from my parents visit to be posted soon.)

A new cat

2011-06-02T19:41:00.000-04:00

There have been a couple of changes here lately in regards to our outdoor animals. Due to multiple reasons, we decided to find a new home for our 8 month old Boxer-Great Pyrenees mix, Sophie. Also, recently, one of our two outdoor cats disappeared without a trace (Hunter, a gray tabby). After a couple of weeks, we decided that our remaining outdoor cat, Hank, ought to have a companion.

It was a little challenging to find a kitten that was not so small (easy prey), and not so old (in which case it might not be friendly with Hank). We answered a Craigslist ad and brought home this five month old black female kitten. Keeping with our "H" tradition for cat names, we decided to call her "Halle".

Halle hid quite a bit the first couple of days. When she did start to emerge, she warmed up to us quickly. Her attitude toward Hank, however, didn't look so promising. When they were in close proximity, she would hiss at him.

But, the tensions did not last long. Thankfully, Hank is very tolerant, and Halle is still young enough, so it all worked out- as you can see...

My Mr. Wonderful

2011-06-02T16:01:00.000-04:00

photo taken by Justin 06.01.11

Adoption process update

2011-05-27T10:22:00.000-04:00

"We believe Jesus in heavenly things -our adoption in Christ;

so we follow him in earthly things -the adoption of children."

- Adopted for Life by Russell D. Moore, p. 18.

We just received word of our home study approval!

On to the next step... the wait.

35

2011-05-16T22:03:00.000-04:00

Justin presented me with a creative birthday card yesterday. He worked on it for a couple of days and I think it turned out great. I wanted to share it with you all here:

35 Facts for someone who's 35

1. On May 5th we got 35 eggs.

2. The 35th President was John F. Kennedy.

3. The 35th First Lady was Mamie Eisenhower.

4. The President in 1935 was Franklin D. Roosevelt.

5. The 35th Vice President was Harry S. Truman.

6. The President in 1835 was Andrew Jackson.

7. 7 x 5 = 35

8. The 35th state is West Virginia.

9. The 35th book of the Bible is Habakkuk.

10. Horses can live up to 35 years old (that's as old as you are.)

11. 100 - 65 = 35

12. 35 days ago was April 10, 2011.

13. In 35 days it will be Father's Day.

14. A Qdoba dinner is about $35.

15. The 35th largest country in Europe is Albania.

16. In 35 weeks it will be January 15, 2012.

17. If you flip 35 it becomes 53.

18. There are 35 squares on our white board calendar.

19. We have probably bought over 35 bags of cat food.

20. 1661 was 350 years ago.

21. In the 1600s or so there were over 3500 American Bison.

22. Yesterday was the last time you did chores before 35.

23. We probably moved the goats 350 times.

24. At age 35 Dad became president of the LGG.

25. The 35th signer of the Declaration of Independence was Thomas McKean.

26. In 35 years you will be 70!

27. In 35 years I will be 46! (and hopefully President).

28. In 35 years Julia will be 44.

29. 35 years ago was the 1976 bicentennial celebration.

30. You probably get your doppio 35 times in 2 months

31. A dinner at Penn Station is also about $35.

32. About 3500 years ago the Ice Age began.

33. 5 x 7= 35

34. The Lego company has been around for over 35 years.

35. And today you're 35 years old! Happy birthday. I love you. Enjoy your gift. From your loving son, Justin.

Currently...

2011-05-07T16:40:00.001-04:00

Reading: Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss. I started this once before and didn't get very far. Now Julia and I are both reading it (separately, at our own pace).

Listening to: CarStuff podcasts. We heard "Driving Pet Peeves" and "Roadside Attractions" on recent road trips. Funny! (Check iTunes for the free downloads.)

Watching: The King's Speech. Interesting historical film. *Please note: profanity in a couple of scenes.

Re-planting: garden greens. Heavy rainfall in April made for a soggy garden. So, I am starting over.

Finishing up: our required adoption education classes and home study meetings by mid-May.

Working on: our adoption profile album. Once completed we will be providing the agency with ten copies.

Savoring: chocolate dipped strawberries... a Mother's Day gift from my love.

Awaiting: my parents arrival in a couple of weeks.

A little note

2011-05-06T19:36:00.000-04:00

The children were tasked with painting a small shelter for our meat chickens. After a while, Justin called to me, "Mom, can you come here for a minute, please?" I figured that they had run into a problem of some sort. Instead, he wanted me to see a little note:

Pasture Scenery

2011-04-22T21:18:00.000-04:00

Free Audio Downloads

2011-04-21T07:32:00.001-04:00

Now available for free download: 35 messages from the 2009 Sufficiency of Scripture conference.

Also, the NCFIC Bookstore is currently offering sale prices on the following resources:

Buy the Kindle addition of A Weed in the Church for just $2.99, the Nook edition for just $6.99, and hardcopies for just $9.99. Buy 10 or more hardcopies for just $7.95 each.

Also, buy hardcopies of Feminine by Design and Helping Them to Choose for just $5.00 each.

Work and Play

2011-04-10T16:32:00.000-04:00

In A Charlotte Mason Companion, Karen Andreola states that a home should provide children with something (or someone) to love, something to do, and something to think about.

Have you ever noticed that children are less content when they have more free time? This has been true at our house. It is one reason that we stick to a year-round home education schedule (with brief intermittent breaks). This is also the reason that we are so grateful for the children's farm responsibilities. A day without structure inevitably brings about aimlessness, grumpiness, and bickering.

This subject is addressed in a Little Women chapter titled, "Experiments". The four daughters are given freedom from their responsibilities for a period of time. The atmosphere of the home quickly deteriorates as clutter abounds and the girls become easily agitated with one another. By the end of the chapter, each is anxious to get back to their usual routine, and their mother encourages them with these words:

"Work is wholesome, and there is plenty for everyone; it keeps us from ennui and mischief, is good for health and spirits, and gives us a sense of power and independence better than money or fashion...

...I am quite satisfied with the experiment, and fancy that we shall not have to repeat it; only don't go to the other extreme, and delve like slaves. Have regular hours for work and play; make each day both useful and pleasant, and prove that you understand the worth of time by employing it well. Then youth will be delightful, old age will bring few regrets, and life become a beautiful success, in spite of poverty." - Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Farm Happenings

2011-04-10T06:31:00.002-04:00

This Spanish-Boer male and his twin sister are already one week old.

Breeze, three days old, tries out the play stand.

They grow up so fast, so we hold them while we can!
(one of the youngest Spanish males)

More farm babies! Twenty-five Freedom Ranger chicks are now in the brooder.

Another one who is growing up fast! Sophie, our Boxer-Great Pyrenees mix, is now over six months old.

The garlic I planted last fall is coming up nicely. I've also started some Romaine, Bibb lettuce, kale, carrots and a small amount of onion in the garden.

Homestead Revival Barn Hop

Sweet Dreams

2011-04-08T23:00:00.000-04:00

I took several more photos today which I hope to post soon.

But it is late, so I will just leave you with this one tonight.

Pictured above are Bonnie (left) and her twin brother at two days old.

Final Count: 12

2011-04-07T21:55:00.000-04:00

Just after lunch today, the fifth set of twins were born to our largest doe. We are thrilled to have six males and six females to watch grow this year! Below are photos of the youngest three.

This Spanish buckling was born yesterday. He is the only one of the twelve with a black coat.

The youngest twins, pictured below, are also Spanish bucklings.

And then there were ten...

2011-04-06T22:42:00.000-04:00

At the end of the day yesterday, we had five kids in the pasture. By 2:30 today we had ten! I told the children they will have to help me keep them all straight. We're still in awe that everything is going so smoothly this year. Last year, several of the does miscarried or had stillborns and then one mysteriously died around two weeks of age. We were only able to raise two of the 2010 kids to maturity.

Now, when I walk outdoors, it's looks like a goat nursery! Enjoy the multitude of photos:

The first set of twins, Little Lady (right) and her brother, now four days old

Justin with Little Lady's brother

Spanish goats are very skittish around people, and Alice never leaves her daughter's side, so we don't often get close to Eva (now two days old)

Second set of twins, Millie (right) and her brother, two days old

This Kensing Spanish goat delivered a little boy today

Blanchette (left) gave us our third set of twins this morning. Here she is with one of her two girls, Breeze.

Breeze (left) often has one or both ears sticking straight out. She inherited this trait from her mother! On the right is Breeze's sister, Beth.

This afternoon, the fourth set of twins were born to our two year old Boer, Belle. This is Bonnie. Julia chose the name because it means, "pretty girl."

Bonnie (right) with her brother

The current count is six girls and four boys. We have one remaining pregnant doe. Stay tuned...

Goat Update

2011-04-05T19:06:00.004-04:00

We've had a few births since I last posted, so the pasture is filling up with delightful little creatures!

We have also decided not to name the males, since we are raising them for meat. The females get to stay and become future mamas, so they each receive a name!

Here's an updated photo of the first set of twins, Lady (right) and her brother. Their mother, Louise, is very tolerant.

Yesterday, the second set of twins were born during a pretty wild thunderstorm! This is Millie (standing) and her brother. These are the kids of Faith, a Boer.

This little guy is incredibly soft and so sweet!

Millie, too, is very mild tempered.

This little chocolate-colored girl below, Eva, was quite a surprise! We did not think that her mother, Alice (a Kensing Spanish goat), was pregnant. Eva means "life", and we're so pleased about this unexpected little life that just joined the flock!

We still have four does yet to deliver, so stay tuned...

More photos, as requested!

2011-04-03T22:20:00.000-04:00

Here are several more photos of the first set of twins. (We have at least four more does who will be delivering this month.) The markings are much more unpredictable this year because we purchased a black Smoke Ridge Spanish buck last fall. When you mix that with Boer does and different colored Spanish does, you just don't know what to expect with the offspring!

Justin greets the larger of the twins, a male (unnamed at this point)

Here he is with his younger sister. She is not only quite a bit smaller, but she has a completely different coat of hair (longer, thicker). We're calling her "Little Lady".

Little Lady resting

Happy farm girl with Little Lady

Louise, the mother, is a 2.5 year old Boer. She had a single birth last year.

They tucker out pretty easily at this age... 1 day old!

First kids are here!

2011-04-03T08:10:00.000-04:00

"There is nothing like a young animal to inspire, or maybe to cloud the judgement of, a young farmer-to-be."

-Growing a Farmer by Kurt Timmermeister, p.88

04.02.11 - first goat birth of the year. Spanish-Boer male. He has a twin sister, too!

Updated

2011-04-01T08:59:00.000-04:00

I have added more to the Q & A page and the Favorite Adoption Resources page has been updated, as well.

Updated

2011-03-31T18:01:00.001-04:00

The Adoption Q & A page has been updated.

Recent Henry Snapshots

2011-03-29T17:30:00.000-04:00

Curled up with Julia's Webkinz horses

Questions?

2011-03-29T17:26:00.000-04:00

I am working on the Adoption Q & A page and would like to include any questions that you may have. Please feel free to post a comment or send an email and I will try to answer any questions about adoption in general or about our own adoption process thus far.

every season

Recommended Reading

Get to the root!

Up in the night?

Feeling overwhelmed?

Currently

Daddy & Me

Mild winter

Nursery

Joseph at 5 weeks

The story of Joseph's arrival

2012 Greetings

Merry Christmas

Comfort

Love

Older Sibling Quotes

End-of-Year Wrap Up

Our Blue-Eyed Boy

Joseph David at 11 days old

We're now a family of five

Giveaway Alert

Currently...

Indiana Territory Capitol

Toyota Plant Tour

Shackleton Exhibit

Currently...

White House tour and the trip home

Marine Corps War Memorial

Last full day in D.C.

Arlington

Capitol Dome Tour

First Full Day in D.C.

First night in D.C.

The planning

Coming soon

Additional schoolhouse photos

Recommended Reading

Harrison House Tour

More schoolhouse photos

Stepping back in time

America for me

Integrity

For future generations

Recent Happenings

Recommended Reading

Dear family & friends

Cuban Burrito Bowls

More children?

Farm Update

Currently...

Recommended Reading

Recommended Reading

More photos

The Annual Meeting

Currently...

Best Friends

Recommended Reading

Currently...

Recommended Reading

Belated Birthday Post

Inward Peace

New food blog

Waiting

Conversation in our home today...

Recommended Reading

Recommended Reading

Recipe Contest

Currently...

More photos from my parents visit

Indy 500

A new cat

My Mr. Wonderful

Adoption process update

Recommended Reading

35

Currently...

A little note

Recommended Reading

Pasture Scenery

Free Audio Downloads