tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-183546462024-03-07T18:57:32.310-05:00Three Fold CordTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.comBlogger1034125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-15118039308269621262016-01-15T14:15:00.001-05:002016-01-15T14:15:22.142-05:00I told you I would post more, but I had hoped more often than once every couple of months. Our farm life has changed somewhat here at our new home, we have taken on a more traditional east tn look by raising angus cattle and a couple of other random cows. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjinH0Zcaq4AQIz-tR3rCUHPGCtvwg8T2EAY9zuVTKRaNrg823XjWNBSXF3O0evEvw-rUxmKurJHEv-csp87HpCt7Xm_cr2rr2mA6LOtdgm9Ldmo6QfguM4ZFnoZmtF3J3Uv5BAnQ/s1600/IMG_2123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjinH0Zcaq4AQIz-tR3rCUHPGCtvwg8T2EAY9zuVTKRaNrg823XjWNBSXF3O0evEvw-rUxmKurJHEv-csp87HpCt7Xm_cr2rr2mA6LOtdgm9Ldmo6QfguM4ZFnoZmtF3J3Uv5BAnQ/s320/IMG_2123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It has been interesting getting to where I am, but it is opening up opportunities for us to get back to farming the way we were before. Out of the blue a few days ago, Jake informed us that he wants to buy sheep and start raising a flock again. That was all I needed to hear, since I had been contemplating this myself. We have a little bit of fencing upgrades to do and hopefully there will be sheep on the York farm again soon. I'll do my best to provide some progress pics and posts.<br />
<br />
By the way, to the folks that were asking about Missy, she is no longer with us, time caught up with her. But, we have a couple of new canines that are doing their best to fill in for her; meet Ella and Lydia.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQVe3_J9CmWhwQBcdLjR4JKgNFXG7VV90FiVNR9VgUwOOvEh4CylxOhtv0CIP7vftHt73HVNDjIdrGqgz9ODyOqxZ1A2f2sbMuf9akRxxTvS7-HNAWHY51fcP0EOrRN4iZuFr3Kg/s1600/20151215_190954124_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQVe3_J9CmWhwQBcdLjR4JKgNFXG7VV90FiVNR9VgUwOOvEh4CylxOhtv0CIP7vftHt73HVNDjIdrGqgz9ODyOqxZ1A2f2sbMuf9akRxxTvS7-HNAWHY51fcP0EOrRN4iZuFr3Kg/s320/20151215_190954124_iOS.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-32939566819982462002015-11-04T11:10:00.001-05:002015-11-04T11:16:19.852-05:00Alive and WellOnce again, we have let time slip away and have neglected our blog. I found myself reminiscing through our old posts today and it made me somewhat sad. Although we are doing well and everyone is healthy, we have to some extent abandoned many of the plans we once had, along with our blog. I hope to revive some of those plans soon and hope to rekindle our blogging, in lieu of other more frequently used social media. There's something a bit more genuine about a blog.<br />
I'd like to hear from any followers that we still have, if you're out there, post a comment please.<br />
<br /><br />
MikeTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-49064953647291333132013-10-16T08:15:00.000-05:002013-10-16T08:17:35.265-05:00Missy the Energetic (or not)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTZixChpVFrdEnqMofgklddEQKvDObs6abtmIquoqiRslfuocQEVqqg47Zhdj1FOz9YHAtBiunxJUVEc0Mq01SZ-D_9BRRK9diPz8iB7kqhFgbMdyc-k96AkB24ObJJMEvTAONA/s1600/IMG_7568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTZixChpVFrdEnqMofgklddEQKvDObs6abtmIquoqiRslfuocQEVqqg47Zhdj1FOz9YHAtBiunxJUVEc0Mq01SZ-D_9BRRK9diPz8iB7kqhFgbMdyc-k96AkB24ObJJMEvTAONA/s320/IMG_7568.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Missy is alive and well, but she has slowed down a tremendous amount over the past year. It is hard having a dog that is so loved getting old. She is still capable of going up and down the stairs, and with great effort she can still climb into our bed. Whenever she gets up, she has a pronounced limp for awhile. She sleeps the majority of time, but that is nothing new for her! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFotsbIwRjFMtwBdiBgFcveMoz7AMdDqUMBEoSnDtaqvVeEd83YEHvOjfEGCs_IlnfSdMM4hlEAVvp4cN8Q_O6wvRYC2Bo-bhcKmYgaP0_VzgqDCPCDAQLPAjpvBjmFGxKNYQVHA/s1600/059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFotsbIwRjFMtwBdiBgFcveMoz7AMdDqUMBEoSnDtaqvVeEd83YEHvOjfEGCs_IlnfSdMM4hlEAVvp4cN8Q_O6wvRYC2Bo-bhcKmYgaP0_VzgqDCPCDAQLPAjpvBjmFGxKNYQVHA/s320/059.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
She still has to be with me at all times. If I go outside, she must accompany me. She is my dog through and through. She has enjoyed our oldest son moving back home, and she will curl up with him every chance she gets.<br />
<br />
I obviously don't have any way of knowing how long Missy will be with us, but I do enjoy every day that we have with her. She is still the sweetest dog that we have ever owned. I know this one thing for sure--never leave food on the counter. She can still muster up the strength to get a yummy piece of meat off the counter by standing on her back legs. She no longer bothers herself for anything much more than meat now. In times past, I have lost many loaves of bread and several desserts to her tummy! She has trained me well, and I still don't give her the chance to get any food from the counter. Who knows when her sweet tooth might just kick back in?<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-70007080285490207432013-10-15T20:38:00.000-05:002013-10-15T20:38:21.491-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvqhiFQbxrYiuOqrqCOaY2endNKmg59GMOmDbDFBYWoebEIkYGntXpCj-t-kzRiunu8uiC9BpYe3Ox_q5l8Pon95smE_zM1r7dj2oZ2hiGX5pMeHkEWQEWkPwYeyFT8XZFJXycg/s1600/036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvqhiFQbxrYiuOqrqCOaY2endNKmg59GMOmDbDFBYWoebEIkYGntXpCj-t-kzRiunu8uiC9BpYe3Ox_q5l8Pon95smE_zM1r7dj2oZ2hiGX5pMeHkEWQEWkPwYeyFT8XZFJXycg/s400/036.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I have no idea where the thought came from today, but I suddenly felt an urge to blog. It has been a long time since I even thought about our blog. I have considered in the past deleting it all together, but I just can't bring myself to do it. Then out of the blue I felt the urge to post. I lost my love of blogging when I went to work as an English teacher at our local high school. The thought of making a spelling/grammar mistake overwhelmed me, and I don't have oodles of time for proof reading. However, I do miss writing and sharing bits of our life. I also miss farming and gardening. <br />
<br />
I guess it is easier to blog than build fences, so I will start here. We are still a happy family that is hoping to start a small, self-sustaining farm. We have recently added chickens and bees. We have two hives of honey waiting to be extracted, but we are lacking the equipment. Our garden didn't do very well, and I didn't do much canning this past summer. I asked Hope to run downstairs to get a jar of jalapeños from the canning pantry. She came upstairs with a jar and an announcement of doom in the event we had to live very long from our canning storage. Perhaps next summer will be a better garden year for us. On the upside of things, our neighbor has shared tons of his garden produce with us. We have enjoyed his bounty all summer long, and we are thankful.<br />
<br />
Our dogs are still alive and well. Missy is still her old Mastiff self, and Lynryd has had some ups and downs in the past few months. I will share those later. Our kids are all thriving and there are lots to share concerning them, but that will also be for a later time. Until next time...<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie<br />
TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-20286586984176756502013-02-10T14:32:00.002-05:002013-02-10T14:32:58.564-05:00Such is the Life of a Dog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWAKhO4ykRsWrFT6l-iCF8U6U2kBdm7BaSdCQXOypoZWLaDbCQUikn3ZxjffZMTr19AcUKba5t66Q6yyPnd79MA86e38Yv7XNVq-ccPtwUaOiysxHnbWHWI1VtyTn6fgCirFBIg/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWAKhO4ykRsWrFT6l-iCF8U6U2kBdm7BaSdCQXOypoZWLaDbCQUikn3ZxjffZMTr19AcUKba5t66Q6yyPnd79MA86e38Yv7XNVq-ccPtwUaOiysxHnbWHWI1VtyTn6fgCirFBIg/s400/003.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Our area recently received a bit of snow, which caused these two girls to have a relaxed day of video games. Missy couldn't stand to be left out of a relaxing moment, so she allowed herself to be used as a foot rest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSiJ1YwmW6-r0BXyXnida9ib19vmOtyKF1v8i4MoAyGFr6tMU8iM644NXubTrMXh9hz0RodKx2o3UwoVi5lA0SRI9RnNHk2uISeOew-NXQD4VWcKuyCBgO_-a505r5ikk1JAINtQ/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSiJ1YwmW6-r0BXyXnida9ib19vmOtyKF1v8i4MoAyGFr6tMU8iM644NXubTrMXh9hz0RodKx2o3UwoVi5lA0SRI9RnNHk2uISeOew-NXQD4VWcKuyCBgO_-a505r5ikk1JAINtQ/s400/004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While the girls "killed" the bad guys, Missy selflessly gave them a place to rest their weary feet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLl1Bfg_eR4rqX7HufTwcjmSllz6xuPldPirNAWqSnj5YHtq4K5GuaBNoxyDNcWoCTEcHVOnbVXEkrJwJrEDVmZzqmaZdfIhLuusw0lER12qGtLBh5JKaBCuHhWN6qoqTNtpVREw/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLl1Bfg_eR4rqX7HufTwcjmSllz6xuPldPirNAWqSnj5YHtq4K5GuaBNoxyDNcWoCTEcHVOnbVXEkrJwJrEDVmZzqmaZdfIhLuusw0lER12qGtLBh5JKaBCuHhWN6qoqTNtpVREw/s400/002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Missy doesn't mind being a resting point for anybody. She is just glad that she has human beings that want to be with her. After all, a nap is a nap in her world!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
grace and peace,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
julie</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-10883389033024491192013-01-21T18:14:00.001-05:002013-01-21T18:14:38.349-05:00No Perfect System <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4CP9yKQ8KTEDzn-mlt4sAF6V9DQSv93ZXKXEi58hLzejpSp7PUUUQVV3O8-Nqhy4jW7RrvnKmrAoNLvfv7xuFBlRsir6Rji5WyyT3oFAjDYCBeHd9hc0GCgkwNPnNh2kTRn59jw/s1600/256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4CP9yKQ8KTEDzn-mlt4sAF6V9DQSv93ZXKXEi58hLzejpSp7PUUUQVV3O8-Nqhy4jW7RrvnKmrAoNLvfv7xuFBlRsir6Rji5WyyT3oFAjDYCBeHd9hc0GCgkwNPnNh2kTRn59jw/s400/256.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I was talking with a dear friend this past week. I asked her how homeschooling was going this year, and she smiled and said, "There is no perfect system." This is a mother who has home schooled for years, and when she speaks I tend to listen because she is seasoned in the art of motherhood. I knew exactly what she meant. I could write a book on the pros of home school, and I could write another book on the negatives of home school. By the way, the same holds true for public education. I started thinking about the time that we home schooled our children. As I was thinking about this time in our life, I considered what our life would have been like if we had never home schooled at all. It was about that time that I realized the best part of home school for our family was the relationships built between each of our children. They are best friends, and I truly believe that wouldn't have happened if they had gone to public school at the age of 5.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MvqJUtuBqLJbLXjtZiuHTJLp6GRS-GRSSSmFQ20ifbuIps1eSnD2HPw8g0U7q1WvG7YKCqGf45HvYAPzTDLoQpKlA4KLScO6E3j3sGFIKm2Qz2RrqYNCjlyeQFGrSa8ML8M_tw/s1600/185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MvqJUtuBqLJbLXjtZiuHTJLp6GRS-GRSSSmFQ20ifbuIps1eSnD2HPw8g0U7q1WvG7YKCqGf45HvYAPzTDLoQpKlA4KLScO6E3j3sGFIKm2Qz2RrqYNCjlyeQFGrSa8ML8M_tw/s320/185.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1oKtOzsZav8NwyqZyffecIG1nlhBcNyG0my2ztDlGH9kfIN-TeG0L5JwpAY8gozNrUblqXxcXwmME_ul4TD8fpUxVd0VXtBbU7VZPoIQoqkGszpIbwBkYl3u4cKOEUMoE5VE3qg/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1oKtOzsZav8NwyqZyffecIG1nlhBcNyG0my2ztDlGH9kfIN-TeG0L5JwpAY8gozNrUblqXxcXwmME_ul4TD8fpUxVd0VXtBbU7VZPoIQoqkGszpIbwBkYl3u4cKOEUMoE5VE3qg/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This weekend Matthew drove down from college to pick up Jacob. They headed out to Missouri to visit Josh. This was a new experience for Michael and I. Our sons were going on a vacation that they had planned and for the most part paid for without our help. Josh rented a cabin on a lake, and they provided and cooked their own meals. I know that memories were made this weekend...probably some I don't even want to know!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpNlRptH-Fajijgr14GeybFUG43koJ4zoRIz8_ueXaw6DiMfvpmdfeZr-edzsEb_CwheS6Wwvi1kWNgID5RH2htqFJM2HkcxUyA_tkKUmYTsJ2s3O8JN12Xzb8Ll5oZ3gfba82A/s1600/097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpNlRptH-Fajijgr14GeybFUG43koJ4zoRIz8_ueXaw6DiMfvpmdfeZr-edzsEb_CwheS6Wwvi1kWNgID5RH2htqFJM2HkcxUyA_tkKUmYTsJ2s3O8JN12Xzb8Ll5oZ3gfba82A/s320/097.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
They called Hope and told her next time she was going to go too. They needed her to help cook and clean! She laughed because she knew them well enough to know that there was some truth in that statement, but they also like her company and her cookies!<br />
<br />
I wouldn't trade those hard years of home schooling these kids for any amount of money. I certainly wouldn't trade their friendships! <br />
<br />
Just in case your kiddos aren't the best of friends yet, don't worry. Home school may not be the solution for your family. Remember, there is no perfect system. My brother and I didn't do so well together when we were children. However, we have grown into wonderful friends now that we are adults. It took awhile, but it was worth the wait!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie<br />
<br />TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-6665028955111309332013-01-13T21:38:00.000-05:002013-01-13T21:38:17.828-05:002012 Year in Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFV1RQ51APzXEjpi_jdi0eBsK_xtpEwxfxIIWfAoAisRovV_2AEwe8Z5H3d7JqrWl1YwU3e2vi988b0fwUxyf5FYpah97esxl890i150Y-MuH5myVMW3Qojg8wcNsS8QbfZMVbPQ/s1600/067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFV1RQ51APzXEjpi_jdi0eBsK_xtpEwxfxIIWfAoAisRovV_2AEwe8Z5H3d7JqrWl1YwU3e2vi988b0fwUxyf5FYpah97esxl890i150Y-MuH5myVMW3Qojg8wcNsS8QbfZMVbPQ/s320/067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
2012 started as a usual year finding Missy curled up sleeping on the couch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfx3fyfuOi3e3VceeOrgTrM7CpCV6ybImklBLYB-JmlHD6_nZt-pjydoBLN-jki0b0qJcYNwoqQgUpooFCKg62OtFR_AovBnSUkVugS-oOkTPHkFNGehV3JiTB-7otwKS9Bd1vw/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfx3fyfuOi3e3VceeOrgTrM7CpCV6ybImklBLYB-JmlHD6_nZt-pjydoBLN-jki0b0qJcYNwoqQgUpooFCKg62OtFR_AovBnSUkVugS-oOkTPHkFNGehV3JiTB-7otwKS9Bd1vw/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Winter quickly turned into spring, and Missy found her way to the pond to get some much needed exercise. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfXOJ348u5n38OF-sHlA9pbbxtSAXLkLzcsWWlps3Fbu-kpNFh9-_yShYy91g-9QyjzMTlUDWs7Cz1HvuH9Ox3R2ZtkunYTgL1dgFrelt3fTxOF72yNqkcAM23MBjAxiAc4QVYxw/s1600/066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfXOJ348u5n38OF-sHlA9pbbxtSAXLkLzcsWWlps3Fbu-kpNFh9-_yShYy91g-9QyjzMTlUDWs7Cz1HvuH9Ox3R2ZtkunYTgL1dgFrelt3fTxOF72yNqkcAM23MBjAxiAc4QVYxw/s320/066.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
The spring also brought Jacob's first experience with high school baseball. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUXOWgzYHpWk1QtnXPaipGJrHFD3i8xFEQVRRHhizouN0qEqWCRSwNJbaYkpyeHZIBoummrIxPFiAtY3_pyvvATaumipCxTXi7UPOFgszipQYe_ajWGPipw8g2o9ySwoUdcD63w/s1600/069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUXOWgzYHpWk1QtnXPaipGJrHFD3i8xFEQVRRHhizouN0qEqWCRSwNJbaYkpyeHZIBoummrIxPFiAtY3_pyvvATaumipCxTXi7UPOFgszipQYe_ajWGPipw8g2o9ySwoUdcD63w/s320/069.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
Spring also brought our first hive of bees to our home. (I pray those little darlings are still alive because I sure would like some honey next year)!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIwsdfb_GGh_MaJMvdCyD9ZEmX_b5RE8-5DcI8ONO19bxyN1UOe1pvEigzPPmqbF6wxcWvxpNwvDC15XbtYZFyxiG0xP6UHa5SmgPWkdQemHYpXJJ2JGGoC9RucRNqpl9YOOHzQ/s1600/063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIwsdfb_GGh_MaJMvdCyD9ZEmX_b5RE8-5DcI8ONO19bxyN1UOe1pvEigzPPmqbF6wxcWvxpNwvDC15XbtYZFyxiG0xP6UHa5SmgPWkdQemHYpXJJ2JGGoC9RucRNqpl9YOOHzQ/s320/063.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
Easter came and went and our college son was able to come home and enjoy his Easter basket this year. We also enjoyed our Easter dinner on the front porch with good friends and warm weather.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVlPXN2sJ1xNfr1DKlV7VOJ4L6Z1lmyLu8scZJrDQby2baP6NAfMBCgx-Epv1L4KHGOi0dXMbyRIkzNBOm9GmdcOzlY2QnYI8kV2hp_jHDI5JAP31fQm5xfdSLFGlJ_LOZWvhmQ/s1600/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVlPXN2sJ1xNfr1DKlV7VOJ4L6Z1lmyLu8scZJrDQby2baP6NAfMBCgx-Epv1L4KHGOi0dXMbyRIkzNBOm9GmdcOzlY2QnYI8kV2hp_jHDI5JAP31fQm5xfdSLFGlJ_LOZWvhmQ/s320/070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
May brought graduation for Josh and my first graduation ceremony as a teacher at Rhea County High School.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTQAXLgzYk7QWfRIC4Ha9ak-ZQD0DTsFnnsl-qs9a6g9-XeO59ghwvO8kqeashECP0thL3nljaIp1BM5FbO5D004Y6yEW-1q8jGD8G7qTh7ur-3hK7XxNxNF7y7kLKnhHy_wvhA/s1600/125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTQAXLgzYk7QWfRIC4Ha9ak-ZQD0DTsFnnsl-qs9a6g9-XeO59ghwvO8kqeashECP0thL3nljaIp1BM5FbO5D004Y6yEW-1q8jGD8G7qTh7ur-3hK7XxNxNF7y7kLKnhHy_wvhA/s320/125.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
May also brought Hope's 8th grade graduation!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpcUsa9Qw-eMeZsd_mw3RUam7j2ODSSchk24yjUWakXR4sZlTO07wD4SamB_q9ASX2uv3Rs5BPeaEJ_Y2qE1cjYjINRimOVtMwazpmhIlUUzDfiw9Ufo04Ltq65bov4HuoTKQFsw/s1600/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpcUsa9Qw-eMeZsd_mw3RUam7j2ODSSchk24yjUWakXR4sZlTO07wD4SamB_q9ASX2uv3Rs5BPeaEJ_Y2qE1cjYjINRimOVtMwazpmhIlUUzDfiw9Ufo04Ltq65bov4HuoTKQFsw/s320/070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The summer brought heat and a drought. Our garden started off wonderful and ended up in weeds. This was probably the worst garden season that we have ever had. On a high note, Josh brought this little darling home as a gift to his siblings. Lynyrd has become Seth's best friend and a joy to us most of the time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomY7h_g5U8nsb4W2jvteEnVKvBSXcp-BbCwgMYqh-Pg4asmyXiEeFRH7QZ8YWGrGvQWd2G55UmpsbVuhM6C34FHN193TAOFiJgLk0p6ULI1xOp4YG_YY3g6Pt9ACV-8LlhMBy7Q/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomY7h_g5U8nsb4W2jvteEnVKvBSXcp-BbCwgMYqh-Pg4asmyXiEeFRH7QZ8YWGrGvQWd2G55UmpsbVuhM6C34FHN193TAOFiJgLk0p6ULI1xOp4YG_YY3g6Pt9ACV-8LlhMBy7Q/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
August found our family saying good-bye to Josh. We held a going away party complete with a cool Marine cake. The night we left him to go into boot camp was one of the hardest things I have ever done as a parent. August also brought a new school year for our family. Jacob grew into a 10th grader, and Hope joined the high school as a freshman. I started my 2nd year teaching at our high school.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGrWNkOPiXwtDozJj6N95Foc69gJwsbOa4jChtoOZ_rUz7_qr8vvkCekyYGHpEXF7yIeMg1I67SuWLRRzoEbnB1Uz36dlPBLCKxGSjug3gt9ugFqjbQ87W6ek81vogBs1H5NY7Q/s1600/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGrWNkOPiXwtDozJj6N95Foc69gJwsbOa4jChtoOZ_rUz7_qr8vvkCekyYGHpEXF7yIeMg1I67SuWLRRzoEbnB1Uz36dlPBLCKxGSjug3gt9ugFqjbQ87W6ek81vogBs1H5NY7Q/s320/070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Joshua's boot camp months found us racing to the mailbox hoping to find word from him. We got his first letter on a Friday night. After the football game, we gave the letter to Jacob and Nick to read right there on the football field.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmPcNIRMpgig8KIB4l52xEkxtmGzbfbcwpc1bEIXBIvV_NdScA7QvUX6P8t42_rUmpAyUhTMT71gQwnRzX9M6jFcB8jAmeqOqWw965FWp54UT4BT7Thy4_1C1bfc64EYBnEoPHw/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmPcNIRMpgig8KIB4l52xEkxtmGzbfbcwpc1bEIXBIvV_NdScA7QvUX6P8t42_rUmpAyUhTMT71gQwnRzX9M6jFcB8jAmeqOqWw965FWp54UT4BT7Thy4_1C1bfc64EYBnEoPHw/s320/014.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
September brought Hope's 14 birthday. I know it is cliche, but it seems just like yesterday when she was a baby!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPQFqdQ3pFfvMbHjZxpR8OHObU6YKwagibYPjlUiLA37Raj2W2MO0ce-2LJBI-8JQOKO_plkFno2-mt4FiF6jDTy0sDMIWYM5vrfqIA6UcKhq8cHPFSWiCuVXeOddRIYKvXiPvw/s1600/083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPQFqdQ3pFfvMbHjZxpR8OHObU6YKwagibYPjlUiLA37Raj2W2MO0ce-2LJBI-8JQOKO_plkFno2-mt4FiF6jDTy0sDMIWYM5vrfqIA6UcKhq8cHPFSWiCuVXeOddRIYKvXiPvw/s320/083.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDzL9vIdE8hfC5YXFfZLJdr3p_IkvNKRyjCFXWwmhP-GXhIq7zDj497CSj95JpEwi5T_sUTyGhAA0OVehYYNMvclAjDC3ibi0GaonG10OTfJV5ImexuOMTMS_93AtldSxFviIig/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDzL9vIdE8hfC5YXFfZLJdr3p_IkvNKRyjCFXWwmhP-GXhIq7zDj497CSj95JpEwi5T_sUTyGhAA0OVehYYNMvclAjDC3ibi0GaonG10OTfJV5ImexuOMTMS_93AtldSxFviIig/s320/007.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
November found us in South Carolina celebrating our new Marine's graduation. Seth missed Josh so much while he was gone, and Josh missed Seth's first year of football.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GG0Kzg2PWKYlEbYVjiZcZTyYntjml7ZyGOpN9FK_uVfCdvaCzz0_63WRn5QVx3nJ164WbGL0q750UzL_5skDW5zfygfPEuvDP7pb6rtEh-MgB0pPFUtvCU_NPRdkkllB120_Ng/s1600/102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GG0Kzg2PWKYlEbYVjiZcZTyYntjml7ZyGOpN9FK_uVfCdvaCzz0_63WRn5QVx3nJ164WbGL0q750UzL_5skDW5zfygfPEuvDP7pb6rtEh-MgB0pPFUtvCU_NPRdkkllB120_Ng/s320/102.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I knew what it was like being the wife of a military man, and now I know what it is like being the mom of a military man. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5aVCwFi2owmSf73GAJ-HDvsNAGFlaEvNXBVqaImDqCNFEYaa3ijwCBU2gX0uWGi1OxHWgnWgOi4Xl1jrNIu59k0qqy2O0AtxjW6m7U_nhvKKHHtudqE4-5hzDV5AjEPqXS_Xo7A/s1600/111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5aVCwFi2owmSf73GAJ-HDvsNAGFlaEvNXBVqaImDqCNFEYaa3ijwCBU2gX0uWGi1OxHWgnWgOi4Xl1jrNIu59k0qqy2O0AtxjW6m7U_nhvKKHHtudqE4-5hzDV5AjEPqXS_Xo7A/s320/111.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
Jacob enjoyed time away from school while we vacationed in South Carolina! He also enjoyed being with his brothers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhedlPSEPsxC5TUhlICAh6dOIx9xZK7vPAL4KNmxjS41XUJl68UtsnshwU5LjaSK3wQgd4nDbSIui1f3EYoHdGw2-eVPo8fWXBgFm3vYj1yEpJRNnH9E0aCpBBpLVd-WLUto8KZrw/s1600/179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhedlPSEPsxC5TUhlICAh6dOIx9xZK7vPAL4KNmxjS41XUJl68UtsnshwU5LjaSK3wQgd4nDbSIui1f3EYoHdGw2-eVPo8fWXBgFm3vYj1yEpJRNnH9E0aCpBBpLVd-WLUto8KZrw/s320/179.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
We even brought this special someone and her family with us to celebrate our Marine. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGqknf_qSS6WlqGX__gQ-qImEHJKuBC7OMNkKFiZbGAJpBz602bg5kCqu4vZNqYH67KsWqAc33NiYoOq7JvSUimN3-A2wRqllPIeyB18dJMPk6a8b8aohJp8zBjLlb1jvlgsliw/s1600/258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGqknf_qSS6WlqGX__gQ-qImEHJKuBC7OMNkKFiZbGAJpBz602bg5kCqu4vZNqYH67KsWqAc33NiYoOq7JvSUimN3-A2wRqllPIeyB18dJMPk6a8b8aohJp8zBjLlb1jvlgsliw/s320/258.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We took some time for family pictures while we were away. I guess it is only right that we now have a family picture that includes Seth. It only took us 8 years!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBJsxUCKPGIrrxMRpQr1o9EN8pT2ofXIKuhz2LPgvzMMXZHxDrxUZHzQnr7bd-d0tggk2pEwL8UZW1MkRq4XtX0-jmaHUPvFkdJSZGHX0pk1xTufl-HTzhZsTo7LV4gBtcMhrlQ/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBJsxUCKPGIrrxMRpQr1o9EN8pT2ofXIKuhz2LPgvzMMXZHxDrxUZHzQnr7bd-d0tggk2pEwL8UZW1MkRq4XtX0-jmaHUPvFkdJSZGHX0pk1xTufl-HTzhZsTo7LV4gBtcMhrlQ/s320/001.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-GSgM7v3t7oGSI8duUf8iu-DW4EHPW7749nCkFQjaC2fA53MGwRXEw1QKcqPpuvX0PDnCKlctKInzixdL4cZaVHL_EPzyLpYD8yWvJO8j7P1LW0VgJdId14JOYhiduSmk-ZvqQ/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-GSgM7v3t7oGSI8duUf8iu-DW4EHPW7749nCkFQjaC2fA53MGwRXEw1QKcqPpuvX0PDnCKlctKInzixdL4cZaVHL_EPzyLpYD8yWvJO8j7P1LW0VgJdId14JOYhiduSmk-ZvqQ/s320/016.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
When we arrived back home, our neighbor had decorated our home and farm gate welcoming us back. I cried when I saw the huge sign for Josh hanging on our gate. This year was Seth's first year of deer hunting with his dad. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtG6Q-2ZGsAVSLM3lK467ysK6hXhC8y9r4s3UGMpG2yYIDK4j9Wy5blzTqP4uUuOODXfVWUmDlXIEaHzS1NJSmgGSB2BeV7sG35cMFJHaSB5OC4FiGbT6vM2qbpOPpfdgM7TWbWw/s1600/033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtG6Q-2ZGsAVSLM3lK467ysK6hXhC8y9r4s3UGMpG2yYIDK4j9Wy5blzTqP4uUuOODXfVWUmDlXIEaHzS1NJSmgGSB2BeV7sG35cMFJHaSB5OC4FiGbT6vM2qbpOPpfdgM7TWbWw/s320/033.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
Josh was able to watch Hope play a basketball game while he was home. Thanksgiving came and went in a whirlwind with Josh home a few days before the holiday. We celebrated and then said good-bye once again.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_dNzantBu8mFBWfdnj778Udyw_pgjYPeeEaeurQDkCceXyOpuj1gTV1A0WkbUIk_zVrgHXHz_Yf8bqIm7rFFqffLJhIwAgBFvO1wFe49SlNt5TtBxnqBun-vR41xdQX-IugdIFg/s1600/017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_dNzantBu8mFBWfdnj778Udyw_pgjYPeeEaeurQDkCceXyOpuj1gTV1A0WkbUIk_zVrgHXHz_Yf8bqIm7rFFqffLJhIwAgBFvO1wFe49SlNt5TtBxnqBun-vR41xdQX-IugdIFg/s320/017.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
Only three of our children were home to decorate the tree this year. We had to go to extreme measures this year to hang the star because the tree was so tall. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKH18N5O0rLed3UgJPEH9ho8Cdk3g2o61oFxISWPjDL39O31HKJT2ejuUCiGO0aAXdBaS2UFgnUwJkiTrEFDTHksgNRBjANLXgKa0TsqzLQ0huI07xKkGuLBntK4td-B2fM10Ag/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKH18N5O0rLed3UgJPEH9ho8Cdk3g2o61oFxISWPjDL39O31HKJT2ejuUCiGO0aAXdBaS2UFgnUwJkiTrEFDTHksgNRBjANLXgKa0TsqzLQ0huI07xKkGuLBntK4td-B2fM10Ag/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The middle of December brought Jacob's 16th birthday. Matthew and Chelsea came and surprised him for his special day. We now have our 3rd child driver in the family. I am thankful that I got a job! Insurance rates are outrageous!!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtgUH3RJsg78kpRKP2SNuMVvjsahr5dPccsD8xWxGLVPeMEmu-FUluwvz-5kk7EV1weiqsbSvQ7uM2ZoFqfM9SwoLs3APmGYRve29J9M-C2xiB6s9MIua7QTORB6_fCqdYL5EbgQ/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtgUH3RJsg78kpRKP2SNuMVvjsahr5dPccsD8xWxGLVPeMEmu-FUluwvz-5kk7EV1weiqsbSvQ7uM2ZoFqfM9SwoLs3APmGYRve29J9M-C2xiB6s9MIua7QTORB6_fCqdYL5EbgQ/s320/019.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Lynyrd has grown into a member of our family, and I look forward to seeing what 2013 brings to our home. <br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-239392524890908412013-01-06T19:40:00.003-05:002013-01-06T19:40:52.763-05:00Christmas 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3cJo415ILP-4_AZl_7m5IiH1P1vZTyCK7K3_a8WH5Tg-1U0tcrn_h2GaqGVQ7xjCo0P59IsaNE1FMM-Wi_4sILG0nPQPigTuDk1Oryk5KdcbgLALlo9uEtrbzmlXTbn7PlJzTbA/s1600/077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3cJo415ILP-4_AZl_7m5IiH1P1vZTyCK7K3_a8WH5Tg-1U0tcrn_h2GaqGVQ7xjCo0P59IsaNE1FMM-Wi_4sILG0nPQPigTuDk1Oryk5KdcbgLALlo9uEtrbzmlXTbn7PlJzTbA/s640/077.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This boy lied to us and told us that he wouldn't be home for Christmas. I spent about 30 minutes in complete panic mode trying to figure out how we were going to bring Christmas to him in Missouri. <br />
<br />
Let me start at the beginning. The Friday before Christmas was the day that Josh was suppose to find out if he was going to get Christmas leave. We spent all day waiting for the phone call from him. Matthew had already been home all week, but he left to head back to Greeneville to visit with his girlfriend and her family. He was going to be home around 6:30 that evening for dinner. While I waited for word from Josh, I busied myself with a good book. I noticed Jacob was cleaning house, but I never guessed he was up to anything. Around 6:00 p.m., Josh called and said his leave was denied. My heart sank and the realization hit me that this Christmas wasn't going to be what I had planned after all. Matthew came home and we all sat down to dinner. A few minutes later our back door opened and Josh stood in the doorway. I have never been more surprised in all of my life! Turns out all 3 of our boys knew that Josh was on his way home. Matthew wasn't in Greeneville that day after all. Apparently he was in Atlanta picking up his brother from the airport. Jacob was home getting things in order, and Michael and I were left in the dark. I cried my eyes out when I saw him. I know for sure having all 5 my kids at home for Christmas was my best gift ever!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBMxKGPeTdew6HnzXA9W2y70W5dCLswKOH4ZtaHz7Lsr_CFvs0J1zHJ0mQyj8HhDlaFdwiIyOtu77-hCmH3BKe1Yyg6yZ7uuOo3xPZeZ5IVD27nddJ1dWeIClIecsTw3o3QFbHFg/s1600/084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBMxKGPeTdew6HnzXA9W2y70W5dCLswKOH4ZtaHz7Lsr_CFvs0J1zHJ0mQyj8HhDlaFdwiIyOtu77-hCmH3BKe1Yyg6yZ7uuOo3xPZeZ5IVD27nddJ1dWeIClIecsTw3o3QFbHFg/s640/084.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Josh wasn't impressed with our new tea glasses. He missed his mason jars! The child in the beard is the one who lied to us too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGcZqalJeRaXLTgFpHlu9BvZfZRALSdPcCtlTkZXGSbMYJ6tNcp1zNEcOcJfyT7HqqSaflPVqExLfWPN_EfSoO95DgXEBY2Zam-tu9f_8hLVUCoexvx_mQuBM8znJpGmRJHvGHg/s1600/079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGcZqalJeRaXLTgFpHlu9BvZfZRALSdPcCtlTkZXGSbMYJ6tNcp1zNEcOcJfyT7HqqSaflPVqExLfWPN_EfSoO95DgXEBY2Zam-tu9f_8hLVUCoexvx_mQuBM8znJpGmRJHvGHg/s640/079.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
The child in the flannel also lied to us. He was the one busy cleaning house while I was reading. He even managed to convince me to cook a nice dinner complete with yeast rolls. The other two children were just as surprised as we were. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbKrBiWlFHSKEIgzMRu44dAOs4njEB9Ft0zxdcDGx7YnmLDvvLPhrHHEiYYxV_MkysEKK9wVPoZ6nkVYPmztkT_tY7E-qIShENm_g9kOYO9QDPEtoixInmjQQCQZ0xpyQ-X9pYyA/s1600/085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbKrBiWlFHSKEIgzMRu44dAOs4njEB9Ft0zxdcDGx7YnmLDvvLPhrHHEiYYxV_MkysEKK9wVPoZ6nkVYPmztkT_tY7E-qIShENm_g9kOYO9QDPEtoixInmjQQCQZ0xpyQ-X9pYyA/s640/085.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
This happy daddy didn't know about the Christmas surprise either. We now realize we had better keep a better eye on our older three kids. There is no telling what they might accomplish together!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie<br />
<br />
P.S. Stay tuned for the highlights of the rest of our vacation and the new things ahead for 2013. TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-90514020790546126492012-11-22T18:00:00.001-05:002012-11-22T18:00:50.179-05:00Happy Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcU4n5LL711nWu1diVaqYWfOFDxslf74S28VcZiu4gEFmZeaRqq34XcQnbEXH5GVdO8Mbfo0lII0sNXq8FGGQkQ6YVxcWFunxS7E8OB7Gmnf468IdiOlVo4z3oGd_jIv9apgTuHA/s1600/252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcU4n5LL711nWu1diVaqYWfOFDxslf74S28VcZiu4gEFmZeaRqq34XcQnbEXH5GVdO8Mbfo0lII0sNXq8FGGQkQ6YVxcWFunxS7E8OB7Gmnf468IdiOlVo4z3oGd_jIv9apgTuHA/s640/252.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I wanted to stop by and wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving. Our Thanksgiving was celebrated last week when our young Marine came home for the week. Today has found me relaxing on the couch with a new book from Jodi Picoult. <br />
<br />
I hope to start writing again some day soon, but I think I have said that several times in the past. It seems that the hours in the day are consumed with everything but writing. Until next time, have a blessed day!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie<br />
TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-17054863901408712032012-10-07T10:04:00.002-05:002012-10-07T10:04:45.633-05:00Encouraging News<a href="http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/oct/07/young-farmers-plowing-their-time-and-money/?entertainment" target="_blank">Great story from our area</a>TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-43647459736977578482012-10-04T08:40:00.000-05:002012-10-04T08:40:32.022-05:00Wisdom, You Don't Get It Overnight<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's not time to quit the day job just yet, oh and I'm thankful for it.</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMDoF9s5Nje2IECq6GFxNFHqm99bLpIvyPxV3RLaW_ZRFIa0oSoyk7gv0J4IM2Pk54XZhXmF8LDa5eOCZZ6UYXMqITPC0IsC8C1weeJDBW5IVq_Emxn5bVk4z9aFRbM3bt-Tmig/s1600/100_0612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMDoF9s5Nje2IECq6GFxNFHqm99bLpIvyPxV3RLaW_ZRFIa0oSoyk7gv0J4IM2Pk54XZhXmF8LDa5eOCZZ6UYXMqITPC0IsC8C1weeJDBW5IVq_Emxn5bVk4z9aFRbM3bt-Tmig/s320/100_0612.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
Over the past 12 years, Julie and I have gained a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience attempting to build our farm and our dream; both positive and negative. We now know what it takes to successfully grow tomatoes, but we also know just how hard it can be to pay a medical bill on the income from selling them. I know a lot more about producing a quality soil and how to grow good pasture, but can't afford sufficient pasture because it has a "mountain view".</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
Twelve years ago, I was under the impression I would just waltz into East TN, buy up some cheap farmland, work hard and bam; quit my day job in a couple of years and enjoy the simple life forever more. What I learned is just how complicated and difficult enjoying the simple life can be. It has been very discouraging at times, and when we left Greeneville two and half years ago, I stood in my front yard and cried as we loaded up the last of our stuff and moved. At that time, it seemed that we had just given up on our dreams that we had poured so much into over the previous 10 years.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the last couple of years, I've been in a holding pattern and sort of a recovery time. I've had time to really reflect on those experiences. I know a lot more know than I did 12 years ago, (not just how to grow tomatoes) and I'm ready to start over again. Making dreams a reality is hard and in this age of instant gratificication, it can be very difficult to stay the course. It has taken me a while to realize it, but I know that we didn't waste our time, we were just gaining the wisdom necessary to make those dreams reality.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stay tuned.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Michael</div>
TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-38153015421832855292012-09-17T07:12:00.002-05:002012-09-17T07:14:17.704-05:00Oh, How Times ChangeI was just sitting here using our blog to show some pictures to a friend and it got me started down memory lane. It is amazing how things change over time and how quickly that seems to have happened when looking back. Admist all the change, thank God, some things remain constant. Family, laughing, loving. I think you may see more of me around here.<br />
MikeTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-10191499171894097922012-07-09T10:28:00.001-05:002012-07-09T10:28:15.406-05:00Sausage Pinwheels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MEAyBH1BZuXweaucoSC_NkOd4wcpeB4dKkNWTFsC_4f8pQjLGD8NuI3rbzqHkfAzlC0lPCFRN8zJjiecTZiFrjAP1JYMtp-nNPtg1rQALTSfFOfSMEWOvXaRdGNKS5CWJLrJsQ/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MEAyBH1BZuXweaucoSC_NkOd4wcpeB4dKkNWTFsC_4f8pQjLGD8NuI3rbzqHkfAzlC0lPCFRN8zJjiecTZiFrjAP1JYMtp-nNPtg1rQALTSfFOfSMEWOvXaRdGNKS5CWJLrJsQ/s640/004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Everybody needs a quick breakfast every now and again. This recipe fills that bill, and it is also great warmed up the next day. I serve these pinwheels almost every time we have overnight guests because most people really like these. Hope your family enjoys!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Sausage Pinwheels</b><br />
<br />
2 cans Crescent Rolls<br />
1 Roll of Jimmy Dean Sausage or your favorite brand<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVswp5Bc0M7RGATM9kni8YkW32pT8YThg0r4PbyZsoYZ1tShL3CZSdGj0mNDjFFuJiNnqQLHdmH4-PNYcUuPd_beZtF-oztLtlp7WNO8b4XT77g73nAyddfInCpW_orEcLTbs2iQ/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVswp5Bc0M7RGATM9kni8YkW32pT8YThg0r4PbyZsoYZ1tShL3CZSdGj0mNDjFFuJiNnqQLHdmH4-PNYcUuPd_beZtF-oztLtlp7WNO8b4XT77g73nAyddfInCpW_orEcLTbs2iQ/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Open each can of crescent rolls. Lay out each can into 2 rectangles like the above picture. Next, sprinkle raw sausage over each rectangle. When you are finished, you will have 4 rectangles. (If your family is smaller than mine, you can use 1 can of crescent rolls and a half roll of sausage).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKiLRuFptXd62Nynjs3cC_v3iYGx8xnPHoggui7IFVhy2DpquO98aqmJAMf22ul38SbF8kBzgCp_TmX_4X1wnSg-9-e1Ell7BptHdzaOydnzgorpb-7MEVU9ATT0770Q7Uwc0gQ/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKiLRuFptXd62Nynjs3cC_v3iYGx8xnPHoggui7IFVhy2DpquO98aqmJAMf22ul38SbF8kBzgCp_TmX_4X1wnSg-9-e1Ell7BptHdzaOydnzgorpb-7MEVU9ATT0770Q7Uwc0gQ/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Roll each rectangle up in a jelly roll style. Cut each rectangle into 5 slices. Place on a greased cookie sheet and bake in a 375 degree oven for about 15 minutes or until the rolls are brown. <br />
<br />
You can serve these with an egg dish or a side of fruit. These are our quick breakfast for those days that I want to cook, but I don't have much time.<br />
<br />
Another variation of these rolls is to cook the crumbled sausage in a skillet. Then sprinkle the cooked sausage onto the rectangles of crescent rolls. Next, crumble cream cheese on top of the sausage. Roll up and slice into 5 pieces. Place on a greased cookie sheet and bake in 375 oven for about 15 minutes. My brother, who is a retired fireman, serves these particular pinwheels. He fell in love them with them while working at the fire station. They made them for breakfast a lot. TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-70863288179935003012012-07-05T13:29:00.000-05:002012-07-05T13:29:58.963-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsttBlrRvAX1B3Xp-fIaDYOWKtlgckjb_4w0fxmbQEQXIedjmqn5IRhOtbNugrJbC9kp5nDO1rRz1R-VElt-dFf7DKEoUc8OVhVPYHYA9ZSBCPlbO0XKOs_2CWorq__E3w4-bfTA/s1600/067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsttBlrRvAX1B3Xp-fIaDYOWKtlgckjb_4w0fxmbQEQXIedjmqn5IRhOtbNugrJbC9kp5nDO1rRz1R-VElt-dFf7DKEoUc8OVhVPYHYA9ZSBCPlbO0XKOs_2CWorq__E3w4-bfTA/s640/067.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to the newest member
of our family, Lynryd. (I didn't name him. There is a story with his
name. I also didn't bring him home. There is also a story with
that, just in case you were wondering).<br />
<br />
Josh, our future Marine that will be leaving in 6 weeks, came in the other
evening with this puppy. He gave it to his siblings and told them it was
a gift from him. He looked at me and smiled. I glared back at him
and told him he better start talking and fast! He explained that a girl
talked him into going to the pound with her. They were putting puppies to
sleep because the pound is so full of unwanted dogs. Josh and Morgan
picked out this little tyke and brought him home. They both were counting
on Michael and I saying, "Yes." As you can see, he was right.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSRBH5lIqfnG-nPPRw7Bds9xyzMpMkcxUVlCzjQv2fHVt981JhFskqVmVFsj-Un4cWycU9tIeTI6owFtoB7hpVM6NhhBLJDWcvH4vz8mrU_SMo2hAKmlY70jDIzItS61cM2jp6WQ/s1600/077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSRBH5lIqfnG-nPPRw7Bds9xyzMpMkcxUVlCzjQv2fHVt981JhFskqVmVFsj-Un4cWycU9tIeTI6owFtoB7hpVM6NhhBLJDWcvH4vz8mrU_SMo2hAKmlY70jDIzItS61cM2jp6WQ/s640/077.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Missy has enjoyed his company, and the little guy is always with her.
She allows him to pull and bite her lips, neck, and belly. I am amazed
that she is so gentle with him!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CWOsanPImc-ky0VBsVAaoL6rh6vpEogrbL7GGzH6rbBU7CU_UP3Wu8qS0EpAdsaidvOkgC6ZgJ9kO-Mp93SyardqPIVFy7VoQPfIDD5wgbNSYx7lLsu1SptvfIth9uhiHFPvGA/s1600/116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CWOsanPImc-ky0VBsVAaoL6rh6vpEogrbL7GGzH6rbBU7CU_UP3Wu8qS0EpAdsaidvOkgC6ZgJ9kO-Mp93SyardqPIVFy7VoQPfIDD5wgbNSYx7lLsu1SptvfIth9uhiHFPvGA/s640/116.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
When she has had enough of him, she takes herself upstairs and goes to bed
in our room.<br />
<br />
Josh named him Lynryd because his best friend was suppose to get the
puppy's brother and name him Skynyrd. Then there would be Lynryd
Skynryd. However, the other kid decided to ask his mother before bringing
the puppy home, and she said, "NO!" Now we are just stuck with
a very cute puppy with a very bad name!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie <br />
<br />
<br />TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-35247977342808822442012-06-22T13:57:00.002-05:002012-06-22T14:00:24.821-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisciBESgMV-kwQxASBTV9sjg4u1WWsZKGD46r_wn2O694l2E1x-bHz03Qoa1sPRwb75aYVA2g0U_2wSAvKUUyvZ6N5zfGV-aqY1KEzCN408jHgdUZhVnq-qvVkNaCyMH-6NCrzOA/s1600/100_2856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisciBESgMV-kwQxASBTV9sjg4u1WWsZKGD46r_wn2O694l2E1x-bHz03Qoa1sPRwb75aYVA2g0U_2wSAvKUUyvZ6N5zfGV-aqY1KEzCN408jHgdUZhVnq-qvVkNaCyMH-6NCrzOA/s640/100_2856.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This picture was taken several years ago at our other house, but I still have the same basket that is just as full of squash and zucchini now as it was then. My legs are sore from picking green beans so instead of walking my lazy self downstairs to take a picture, I just pulled from my archives. We weren't suppose to have so much squash and zucchini. I had a moment of not paying attention and I planted double squash seeds instead of watermelons. I should have known better since squash seeds are yellowish and watermelon seeds are black, but I was thinking about other things. My husband wanted to till the extras up and replant watermelon, but I put my foot down. He said he didn't want to hear me complain about the overflow. Thus far I haven't said a word about the overflow of squash, but I have complained daily about the overflow of green beans. I have 70 quarts of green beans in our pantry. We have eaten enough green beans to float a boat, and we have given bushels and bushels away to friends. ( By the way, if you live close to me you are welcome to come pick green beans for your family. They are free for the picking)!<br />
<br />
Well, now that I have all of these squash and zucchini plants, I have to come up with creative ways of using them. I wanted to share a quick recipe that I made for supper last night. My family loved it. Plus it was easy, quick, and cheap! What more could I ask for? I could ask that you would come pick beans and save my back and legs from that!!!!!<br />
<br />
<b>Smoked Sausage Stir Fry</b><br />
<br />
Cut into bite size pieces as much smoked sausage as needed for your family. Put it in a stainless steel skillet. Add a bit of olive oil. Cut up an onion and turn on the heat. Slice squash and zucchini in the desired amounts. Add Crazy- Mixed- Up -Salt. Be careful to taste before you get to heavy handed with the seasoning because it does have a lot of salt content . (You can find Crazy-Mixed- Up-Salt in Walmart or your grocery store. It is located in the spice section). Cook until tender. I served over rice with some homemade sourdough bread.<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-65647002747303533902012-06-19T06:49:00.000-05:002012-06-19T06:49:25.260-05:00This Post Made Possible by Contributions From the Cleaning Fairies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5dN30n9BEx68rn-ALVQEaB_pQVTwmh4GJlxbrMCAJWAfuEImBJw8gyiDR5DJLW-hSBN_Q_IN5i66ywuAmRjX-yVpmbUtHOKnWotkTPTPIitdkwM-H_KI49BxE9Q15GXhoqfuhdw/s1600/040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5dN30n9BEx68rn-ALVQEaB_pQVTwmh4GJlxbrMCAJWAfuEImBJw8gyiDR5DJLW-hSBN_Q_IN5i66ywuAmRjX-yVpmbUtHOKnWotkTPTPIitdkwM-H_KI49BxE9Q15GXhoqfuhdw/s640/040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I awoke with a jerk this morning around 4:00 a.m. The first thought on my mind was the mounds of green beans still waiting to be broken and canned. I then remembered the state of the kitchen. I left it so undone that if my own mother showed up unexpectedly I wouldn't have allowed her through the door. At that moment, I had a thought that I could just give the green beans away to a friend, a stranger, or an enemy. I didn't care who got them, but I knew that I couldn't do everything that was before me for the day. I went back to sleep only to wake again around 6:15 a.m. I once again remembered the green beans and my decision to give them away, and then I panicked wondering what I would do if I couldn't find someone to take them off my hands. I decided if I couldn't give them to a person I would share the loot with the cows. My children and husband could never know of the deed since they also spent their time picking the beans from the garden. I felt pretty safe that the cows wouldn't tell on me. <br />
<br />
With my plan fixed in my mind, I climbed out of bed dreading the chores that I had left undone all day yesterday. I quickly dressed and headed slowly downstairs in search for a cup of coffee. As soon as my foot hit the last stair, I noticed that the living room was put together. The strewn blankets were no longer on the couch. The shoes that had become an obstacle course were no longer in sight. Then my eyes slowly glanced at the kitchen table. It was spotless. There were no remnants of last nights late dinner to be seen anywhere. My counters were spotless too. I then saw one of many garden baskets full of green beans that had all been broken and left as a gift. There was a beautiful toilet paper bow tied on the handle, and a precious note left by my three cleaning fairies.<br />
<br />
One of my sons, who will remain nameless because he doesn't like anything that he does to be made public, and two of his friends stayed up late last night. They sat on the front porch and drank coffee. This is something that happens almost every night at our home, but my husband suggested that while they sat and talked they could break a few beans. After they broke ALL the beans, they came in the house and started cleaning. I have waited all of my life for the cleaning fairy to show up, and quite frankly, last night was much needed. Those boys couldn't have spent $1,000 on me and made me any happier than what they did for me last night. The only negative about last night was that I was left with an eerie feeling...if those boys could break all the beans and clean the house without us waking up what might a burglar get accomplished while we slept? Maybe we need to purchase a better watch dog!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie <br />
<br />TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-48069877337919572662012-06-18T06:56:00.000-05:002012-06-18T06:56:17.479-05:00Sunflowers and Green Beans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIqtAu0gUPD8HRKTLLYUjYf1cNdR5FkCYGG_XE_78BjBL-Pd939jtV27l1m6SNX2Skhr6mOl_1Di0Qcl3DEWNXwjO4SdXjXefxE6srAu_bPXslWT5S4El0mddVII_Xb-Rr73Md4g/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIqtAu0gUPD8HRKTLLYUjYf1cNdR5FkCYGG_XE_78BjBL-Pd939jtV27l1m6SNX2Skhr6mOl_1Di0Qcl3DEWNXwjO4SdXjXefxE6srAu_bPXslWT5S4El0mddVII_Xb-Rr73Md4g/s640/010.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
I haven't posted much about our garden this year because I have been disheartened with it. First, we were much later than usual getting it all planted. I still have more corn and flowers to plant, so technically I am still not finished. Second, we have grown a bumper crop of weeds. I don't know how this has been possible, but we managed. Also for the second year in a row I can't get my okra seed to germinate. I have come to conclude that it must be me because I am now using seed from my neighbor. His okra is thriving while mine has done nothing. I have planted okra twice this year already, and I will be planting it again this week. I don't have high hopes of seeing my own okra this year, but our neighbor is good to share his bounty with us. Next year I will be starting my okra seed in my basement so I can watch it!<br />
<br />
With all the negative talk out of the way, let me share the joys of the garden from this year. I have sunflowers everywhere. They are standing tall and proud in the first two rows of the garden. I also have them in vases and containers all throughout the house. They make me happy! I also have zinnias in bloom and they too are poked here and there in pretty jars in our home. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtixmfZN6aFKT9ktxgy2gwuieGlUk5gwBUb1LwwUwv8UHwwQRBSslE4pt3qqyPVrfAskty4CcAvVtQeCmcgOGFyPNm37hvHrDv750vXgfCh45liVtptcTJtDtHsXnsY26G20j3FQ/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtixmfZN6aFKT9ktxgy2gwuieGlUk5gwBUb1LwwUwv8UHwwQRBSslE4pt3qqyPVrfAskty4CcAvVtQeCmcgOGFyPNm37hvHrDv750vXgfCh45liVtptcTJtDtHsXnsY26G20j3FQ/s640/008.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
This year we planted bush beans because I wanted my green beans to come in all at the same time so I could can them in one fail swoop. Oh boy, has that ever happened. This past week we have picked 7 bushels of green beans from our garden. I have spent so much time picking beans that the treadmill is starting to look pretty good to me right now! Don't think it is just me picking these little treasures. My kids, husband, and the neighbor children have joined in to help. When we haven't been in the garden picking beans, we have been on the front porch breaking beans and drinking coffee. If all goes well, I have one more day of canning ahead of me.<br />
<br />
We are also enjoying green onions, zucchini, squash, peas, and lettuce from our garden. We also planted 3 more small rows of pole beans so that we can have fresh green beans for eating all summer long. I won't be canning these!<br />
<br />
What have I learned from this year's garden? Although it may not be perfect, I can still enjoy and use it. I just have to step over the weeds from time to time. Come to think of it, it is kind of like my life.<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-52705874577732271772012-05-31T11:04:00.000-05:002012-05-31T11:04:09.128-05:00Summer Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMb4a6t5Qo3YH96sqA3cCqLe-l3jGigwuyymyqmpj-CyoiLpJ37mp8_h7dIX5bAGJ5PoOBIo5Z0XRvR84gxjAYmhe83yuNdN4UAwzYDKIvgyY_f80yN07m5EIELjcz1xDqOYXZyw/s1600/066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMb4a6t5Qo3YH96sqA3cCqLe-l3jGigwuyymyqmpj-CyoiLpJ37mp8_h7dIX5bAGJ5PoOBIo5Z0XRvR84gxjAYmhe83yuNdN4UAwzYDKIvgyY_f80yN07m5EIELjcz1xDqOYXZyw/s640/066.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
School is out for summer!!!!!! I know that an English teacher should know better than to put 6 exclamation points at the end of the sentence, but it seemed appropriate for the announcement of summer. I have spent the morning doing a few relaxing chores. I cleaned a few windows, and straightened up the front porch a bit. I also made homemade cinnamon rolls for the children. They have complained vehemently about my lack of cooking. I still stick with the story that I cook almost daily, but I don't make all the baked goods that they have grown to love. Summer time will find me baking again. Last night I made 2 loaves of Banana Bread, and I enjoyed every moment of the process of baking and being in the kitchen.<br />
<br />
I am planning on enjoying the slower days of summer. We will still have to adhere to a schedule because both Jacob and Hope play high school sports. This will require several trips a day to the high school for me, but I get to come home in between! <br />
<br />
Keep an eye out for posts coming more often. I love writing and it is something that I have missed dearly.<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie<br />
<br />
<br />TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-80202111836879035012012-05-23T15:56:00.001-05:002012-05-23T15:58:29.636-05:00Graduations Galore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXxW3I6dr-wuFsTxRciSKDF9L1o1hPNn8v9B8fwdEgbCD3_-E_LRBKaPVVFPshYnEH7wrBSWrNNaNThAlkNvxlE9yURwJ3VvT61uAak1P9WzoPGUIfHnxRU_HifXUIfafZpTI37w/s1600/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXxW3I6dr-wuFsTxRciSKDF9L1o1hPNn8v9B8fwdEgbCD3_-E_LRBKaPVVFPshYnEH7wrBSWrNNaNThAlkNvxlE9yURwJ3VvT61uAak1P9WzoPGUIfHnxRU_HifXUIfafZpTI37w/s640/070.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Graduation came for Joshua this past Friday night. This was also my first graduation as a teacher at our high school which is the reason for the robe. I managed to do my job as a faculty member and as a mom without shedding one tear.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhaeUOOhXpZ5Lt8cvjFiUtxy8-BCOoB8Zwy3NQLVJaJi1xQH587yP8RtHzZPHfCOYIEqLBn8xZd0ApS3T0c2HEv6vMtjNWroUH8f8niYeHNK2mL7uuS12OzD0dDOQA_joVPdRgkg/s1600/069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhaeUOOhXpZ5Lt8cvjFiUtxy8-BCOoB8Zwy3NQLVJaJi1xQH587yP8RtHzZPHfCOYIEqLBn8xZd0ApS3T0c2HEv6vMtjNWroUH8f8niYeHNK2mL7uuS12OzD0dDOQA_joVPdRgkg/s640/069.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
We celebrated Joshua's graduation as a family. Then we headed to the house with grandparents to enjoy a BBQ dinner on our front porch. We picked up a few extra friends along the way to eat dinner with us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3t8cQ0DX4fyyC0xhTSyXjRLy3Q61qCXgMB3_8MqNMeXPb92swQdhdRDiZ8yrIR1zzetUNHNyUgNSkP5_oSU99fTLQJoraBtgDiFNxItaVNo-IY0bEtcHyuxMw7JXHmp89q_4Ynw/s1600/101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3t8cQ0DX4fyyC0xhTSyXjRLy3Q61qCXgMB3_8MqNMeXPb92swQdhdRDiZ8yrIR1zzetUNHNyUgNSkP5_oSU99fTLQJoraBtgDiFNxItaVNo-IY0bEtcHyuxMw7JXHmp89q_4Ynw/s640/101.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
Today I took a day off from being teacher and went to celebrate our daughter's 8th grade graduation. She won the Presidential Gold Award for fitness. Her brother won the same award last year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIULyKj_V3NALYlZmWeICCxDtW_Hb3wnSwzoHfc-k-8lvBgqyBOSi5E6bv6WuZYmuMaCaL63Vyz_2aBFYeqIxVhSEeVoGHANRgOOLC_jJGBTSMsfjN7c3PzIqBnPlGgr5a_8uZsA/s1600/123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIULyKj_V3NALYlZmWeICCxDtW_Hb3wnSwzoHfc-k-8lvBgqyBOSi5E6bv6WuZYmuMaCaL63Vyz_2aBFYeqIxVhSEeVoGHANRgOOLC_jJGBTSMsfjN7c3PzIqBnPlGgr5a_8uZsA/s640/123.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Hope enjoyed her special day with a limo ride with 14 of her friends to Chattanooga. They ate at a nice restaurant and then went to a park for a carousel ride. Afterward, they enjoyed ice-cream at another shop, and tonight she will be heading to a graduation party with friends. <br />
<br />
I am on the countdown to the school year coming to a close for me. I have had a wonderful year, but I am looking forward to a few months off to enjoy being at home again. My kids are looking forward to big home cooked meals!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-54664264070562655182012-05-15T15:47:00.002-05:002012-05-15T15:50:57.364-05:00Tired and Punchy and a Bit Emotional<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayR289lUTZXvYCsfslEI2tuIDxeYgrsT8bIZdPg29vYWgK3qSKRlMGTi1mv3E4XStp6OXKrNVtnKiV77TVNRGn1aysztIkJSb3h9Xe15sNymWgPFXxOISsmD_90iLg3SfnCssxA/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayR289lUTZXvYCsfslEI2tuIDxeYgrsT8bIZdPg29vYWgK3qSKRlMGTi1mv3E4XStp6OXKrNVtnKiV77TVNRGn1aysztIkJSb3h9Xe15sNymWgPFXxOISsmD_90iLg3SfnCssxA/s640/012.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
First, let me say point blank that I am tired. The kind of tired that makes one a little bit punchy. I believe it could be cured if I could go to bed and sleep for three days, but alas sleep doesn't come in the month of May it seems. The word of the month is HECTIC. Now that my rant is over I will move on to the more important things of life. Matthew celebrated his 21st birthday with us this year. It was a bit unexpected that he would actually get to be home, but I pulled together one of his favorite meals and we celebrated.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1LbFO59WKzSsIKKoRUt8W1Ma02crvEn2p7Tw5tbcWu4qZzoit9AkXtoXwC9UbWzPsa5-BxrkWv-hAhBq9d5Wb96XenBkuQ0K_FOMvv30pBoGNJjdIPTSGHExeMPDnwxXHC5GXaA/s1600/094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1LbFO59WKzSsIKKoRUt8W1Ma02crvEn2p7Tw5tbcWu4qZzoit9AkXtoXwC9UbWzPsa5-BxrkWv-hAhBq9d5Wb96XenBkuQ0K_FOMvv30pBoGNJjdIPTSGHExeMPDnwxXHC5GXaA/s640/094.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Next, both of our families gathered at Cedar of Lebanon State Park to celebrate Mother's Day. We chose that particular park because it was a halfway meeting point for all of us. Here is a picture of my family with a few of us missing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrKTBFIIzl-qcbJuyA-SUT3Fw9IUFSsWSoUOD9SpffuVzyB5xgiol5GXgCBCTpLVbn9RPp-FdJditdZRlJNJ8b8Gu2mAkmGyJFTWtB2EYVY3dfHCQC_Y6tU9DPBOhQ3R6gJfwBA/s1600/036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrKTBFIIzl-qcbJuyA-SUT3Fw9IUFSsWSoUOD9SpffuVzyB5xgiol5GXgCBCTpLVbn9RPp-FdJditdZRlJNJ8b8Gu2mAkmGyJFTWtB2EYVY3dfHCQC_Y6tU9DPBOhQ3R6gJfwBA/s640/036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
In between celebrations, we have had to prepare ourselves for this child's graduation. (Not the little one...she doesn't belong to us. However, she does think that Josh belongs to her. He calls her Bug, and she has his heart). We had Senior Awards Day at our high school. Josh was given a standing ovation when it was announced that he had joined the Marines. It was overwhelming for me. Enough said or I might just cry again. Sleep deprived people are a bit emotional.<br />
<br />
Then today was his last day of high school. After his final test, he came into my classroom. He wanted to let me know that he passed all of his tests. We talked a bit, and then he said, "I'm out of here." He walked away, and I was left realizing that would be the last time he would walk out of my classroom. I was also left a bit sad that he didn't give me a hug, a thank you, or his usual, "I love you." I could have cried, but I looked at my room full of students and chose to go on with Julius Caesar. Then after class I noticed that I had a text message from Josh. It was a simple, "I love you." He didn't forget after all! He just didn't want to share his feelings in front of my students. It simply made my day.<br />
<br />
Oh, did I mention that I am tired? <br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-43397139154887380332012-05-06T18:21:00.004-05:002012-05-06T18:24:21.039-05:00Sunday Scripture<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKot8kR78uSrVERfYzm6wnVA1bggSUmGcFKk6o0cNcuMoGkHfikMFWFftj7J1bW1Xb-2fG0vU_3_llKW7IguSFOvSsY4Hf5bl1IKpmYpln2blF7J1VXbiPUXg94HzYKU1Ytg5Pw/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKot8kR78uSrVERfYzm6wnVA1bggSUmGcFKk6o0cNcuMoGkHfikMFWFftj7J1bW1Xb-2fG0vU_3_llKW7IguSFOvSsY4Hf5bl1IKpmYpln2blF7J1VXbiPUXg94HzYKU1Ytg5Pw/s640/012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
"Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another." Romans 14:19<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-30674180851676936682012-05-05T06:51:00.002-05:002012-05-06T18:23:37.096-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg704xmth4Tz5wth6_oOUK7W_rD8nc2L6F0mVqA17VjB3oSw0EhlNwYO-9eADVu-58spYM-SvPLkZbE8Dq2_0LC-Ro42fRjy3_BQU592Y5vm0ets54XYCMSAsNKePgSWTjaK5haOg/s1600/067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg704xmth4Tz5wth6_oOUK7W_rD8nc2L6F0mVqA17VjB3oSw0EhlNwYO-9eADVu-58spYM-SvPLkZbE8Dq2_0LC-Ro42fRjy3_BQU592Y5vm0ets54XYCMSAsNKePgSWTjaK5haOg/s640/067.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Michael ordered our bees a few weeks ago. They came in this lovely cardboard box that didn't allow any bees to escape during our drive home from Chattanooga.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Pk66CCs8rRC77Sp-JT0nfiVd5GgziBADmttG1mhVe0Ew8oOeJ5yBulxQ5rBQqreo9g0UlzWIvp26bLWXlDSD8QvoUokmJ5zzMxSUEdABqJFg1Mqfpy_d8l3D4tVTG3ytGWtLow/s1600/069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Pk66CCs8rRC77Sp-JT0nfiVd5GgziBADmttG1mhVe0Ew8oOeJ5yBulxQ5rBQqreo9g0UlzWIvp26bLWXlDSD8QvoUokmJ5zzMxSUEdABqJFg1Mqfpy_d8l3D4tVTG3ytGWtLow/s640/069.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
After we arrived home, Michael and Seth went to put together the frames for the new hive. This time around we only purchased one hive of bees. We have enough equipment to run four hives, but we have learned not to get in over our heads. We are taking the mistakes that we have made in the past and applying them to our life today. We wanted to start out simple to get our feet wet again, so to speak. One strong hive of bees will produce more than enough honey for our family and plenty to share with others. When we did this "farm thing" in the past, we wanted to make money from it. This time we want to produce for our own consumption.<br />
<br />
If you know me, you know how much I despise the bees. I don't mind them as long as they leave me alone. However, they usually fly into my hair, which is probably due to the hairspray that I use. All I have to do is keep the bees out of my hair and Missy out of their hive. Both of those things are easier said than done!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-15917762088933535372012-05-02T04:44:00.003-05:002012-05-02T04:49:47.298-05:00A boy and His Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTCsEckehVdSDZirUvDqzfu-ZyzuZwQok_h9yX_c1OK-hHcaaEZjpmPyiOUIlIvFQT92-yoNq8l89J9n1AoMpEQyZITTPUJ8pd578nFddx-dXyw_66pn2Z0N5TNcvqWKuH4UVnJA/s1600/049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTCsEckehVdSDZirUvDqzfu-ZyzuZwQok_h9yX_c1OK-hHcaaEZjpmPyiOUIlIvFQT92-yoNq8l89J9n1AoMpEQyZITTPUJ8pd578nFddx-dXyw_66pn2Z0N5TNcvqWKuH4UVnJA/s640/049.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Jacob came home the other evening from having dinner out with another family. As we were talking, he explained that this family drove quite far to go to a favorite restaurant. The reason they liked this place so much was the sourdough bread. I am sure they did not expect him to be a connoisseur of sourdough bread, but he is. He took one bite of the bread brought out by the waitress and announced, "This is nothing compared to my mom's sourdough bread!" While I was thrilled he liked my bread better, I surely wished he had been a bit more gracious about it! What's a mom to do? Well, I plan on baking the boy some sourdough bread and then I plan on teaching him some manners!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julie<br />
<br />
My sourdough recipe can be found <a href="http://3foldcord.blogspot.com/2007/07/kitchen-happenings.html"><span style="color: blue;">here</span>. </a>TnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-47111177857997935202012-04-30T16:04:00.001-05:002012-04-30T16:04:33.786-05:00Missy Goes Swimming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-KUsVZd0cpe_KrzBpPNnLX3MDPacwsbnaH4n5I5CaO6kFqgVxKDZOLEJ_EaIFMUqDHAqpdOg-ib0aDs23BvmxjpyJqRBRf45SROUsjAYkpK6OWz8KH_tsbjtIO-kLjL8-TmC8tg/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-KUsVZd0cpe_KrzBpPNnLX3MDPacwsbnaH4n5I5CaO6kFqgVxKDZOLEJ_EaIFMUqDHAqpdOg-ib0aDs23BvmxjpyJqRBRf45SROUsjAYkpK6OWz8KH_tsbjtIO-kLjL8-TmC8tg/s640/001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
A kind reader asked about Missy and wanted me to give an update. Missy is doing well these days. She is now 6 1/2 years old, and she is slowing down a bit these days. During the spring, Missy sheds an enormous amount of dog hair. It is everywhere. I brush, vacuum, and brush again. This is a daily adventure in our house, and we are still afraid to wear dark colors. This is the very reason that Missy will be our first and last English Mastiff. I can handle everything about her except the mounds of dog hair in the spring and fall. What is a frustrated pet owner to do? This frustrated pet owner took her to the pond and encouraged her to swim. I was thinking that maybe some of the hair would wash away.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzQY60AvrH0PTh7aZVZPvM3OShHc0W1ltg47ZPKmnOMKXLbl6dnfmysMhYF_lJkgiVy439S-KmTk58yOLOw2VhBK7qLe31WitLE4jthzOVaE15JOFlO_5VdZc9SQ4asYVmLD5sg/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzQY60AvrH0PTh7aZVZPvM3OShHc0W1ltg47ZPKmnOMKXLbl6dnfmysMhYF_lJkgiVy439S-KmTk58yOLOw2VhBK7qLe31WitLE4jthzOVaE15JOFlO_5VdZc9SQ4asYVmLD5sg/s640/014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
We have avoided introducing Missy to the pond. What is worse than dog hair? The answer...a 220 pound wet dog with wet dog hair! I overcame my fear of a large wet beast frolicking in my house and took her for a swim. She was unsure at first. She wanted to make sure we were watching her. After all, if she needed to be rescued she wanted to know that we were available.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_P8r_5WAvrFSh7qb-cRN3FiGLimXdlx6E7eJGonRkU5EiWxQpghd_FhMeZI7uSUuNaZ0YZVBmIPX1TC_semT7y_XZFUjrQOES4ppoZW98J9CsUlKABKkJ3ZcWmbIaqHJyYyHXw/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_P8r_5WAvrFSh7qb-cRN3FiGLimXdlx6E7eJGonRkU5EiWxQpghd_FhMeZI7uSUuNaZ0YZVBmIPX1TC_semT7y_XZFUjrQOES4ppoZW98J9CsUlKABKkJ3ZcWmbIaqHJyYyHXw/s640/025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
She eventually worked up the courage to actually swim. She also realized that she could have a good time without over exerting herself, which was a positive from her perspective. Now all I have to do is figure out a way to have her use a bar of soap! By the way, the battle of the dog hair is still being fought on a daily basis in our home. My advice to you...if you come to visit me don't wear black!<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354646.post-44269046581481718832012-04-24T19:12:00.001-05:002012-04-24T19:12:41.815-05:00Back Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipN1oVC6ISKaFfBFIU9h7cAaAjh26ESf6FudbTcIa0qixTrSpDp0Wel-f5zYBbutMXcmR7cnySqwXCmbORejF7lWZxlxTRqITbC1akLukiZHSbCsIwyYUn0XC1Ukd63Yj9VMr8pA/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipN1oVC6ISKaFfBFIU9h7cAaAjh26ESf6FudbTcIa0qixTrSpDp0Wel-f5zYBbutMXcmR7cnySqwXCmbORejF7lWZxlxTRqITbC1akLukiZHSbCsIwyYUn0XC1Ukd63Yj9VMr8pA/s640/004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
These last few weeks have been a whirlwind for the York household. Between baseball games and basketball practice, I haven't figured out if I am coming or going. Our computer also got damaged by lightening so that was another reason that I have been so quiet. <br />
<br />
What have you missed? Well, Spring Break has come and gone. We enjoyed a week of being at home without all the responsibilities of school. However, Jacob still played baseball throughout the week. Easter has also come and gone. I served Easter dinner on our front porch this year. The weather was beautiful and we enjoyed the company of our neighbors for the day. I have also discovered several new recipes that I want to share when time is more abundant. Oh, we have added our first "critters" to the farm. (If you have read my blog for any length of time, these are the same critters that I really don't like. However, I do enjoy what they produce so we have given them a home). We have also planted part of our garden, but we have a lot left to do! <br />
<br />I hope to post more often. Until then...<br />
<br />
grace and peace,<br />
julieTnFullQuiverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481669514010206648noreply@blogger.com3