tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41795420635636961742024-02-06T21:57:39.538-05:00Home-Sweet ThingsThanking God for the Home-sweet things.Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.comBlogger125125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-77951453360770998602016-07-01T22:18:00.000-04:002016-07-02T00:00:34.960-04:00To Will And To Do For His Good PleasureI began my "Intentional Series" earlier this year, and I intend to carry it further. I just wanted to talk about it for a bit. Maybe I already did, but I thought it bore repeating, because I got intentional about so many other things, except my blog! I am attempting to bring changes here and hope to be better able to minister to those who need it and also take time for enjoyable things as well.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>intentional:</b></span></span></div>
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There are so many areas I have been forced to ask myself, "Could I be more intentional in this area?". This year 'intentional' is my God-gifted "word"; The word that resonates with me and is part of my every day thinking. A word I share with whosoever has eyes to see and ears to hear. I've even seen others with the same word of the year and was amazed!!!<br />
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Does God do that for you? Does He plant a word in your heart and mind that whenever you do anything you are led to that word and pray to line up your heart, mind and actions accordingly? This has been going on for me for some time. I have come to the place where, at year's end, I wait upon the Lord for another word to focus on and meditate on next.<br />
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It's not that I'm special, no, that I am not. There are no celebrity sons or daughters in God's Kingdom, not one. We are all beloved, yet we are all in different places of grace and growth. What God is working in me may not be the same as what God is working in you...except that it is to will and to do for His good pleasure. That part is always the same!<br />
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At first, I thought I might be a careless one. Otherwise, why would the Father have to plant 'intentional' in my heart and mind. But after taking time to think about it and meditate upon it, I can see where this word has been very important to things here at the Home-Sweet. It comes to mind at every opportunity, I have avoided many spur of the moment decisions that I used to give no thought to and now try to always take the time to think things through. <br />
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I am trying to take every opportunity to apply my daily everything to being intentionally in that moment, that place, be there and not fret about what else I have to do, where else I have to go, stress, stress, stress. I don't know about you, I will be honest, there are many factors and situations in my life and in the lives of those I love, that just simply stress me out! That moment when my heart wants to pound and my thoughts go haywire, that is the time my Dear Savior's Word kicks in and I become mindful of Scripture and I have to intentionally allow the peace that passes understanding to flood my soul and not give in to the fears and doubts and stresses of life in this realm.<br />
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'Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done, On Earth As It Is In Heaven"<br />
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This is our prayer, is it not? Do we hinder His will, His intention in our lives? This should not be Dear Ones. It will only cause us to prolong the inevitable work of God in us. He will let us reap the fruit of holding back the seeds of growth, until we feel the near death of stagnation. Until we come to that place in our spirit that can no longer breathe without Him. Have you never been there? God bless you. For those of us who make mistakes, we learn and grow and draw ever closer to Him, who is our breath.<br />
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Father, thank you for Your Word. Let us always be mindful of it so that our lives may be steered in the proper direction, with the proper attitude, that Your good pleasure is the result! In Jesus' Name, Amen<br />
<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-7087721340674807242016-05-06T23:56:00.001-04:002016-07-01T22:19:15.867-04:00It's Okay To Be You...You Are His Workmanship Dear Ones,<br />
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How horrible of me to dump a gray, foggy post in the middle of "Intentional Home-Sweet" encouragement! But I wanted to encourage you, really!<br />
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I used to think it was wrong of me to care for myself. That it was selfish and self-centered. It wasn't that I was playing the martyr...it was just what I believed. I don't know where I even got that idea. It could stem from my childhood abuses...my thought that if I did everything perfect...then things would turn out better, but really they never did. Still there was always the striving to get it right and perfect would happen and we would all live happily ever after. It stayed with me. It is still with me, once in a while breaking out of the box I have stuffed it in, or I guess attempting to convince me that it could resurrect after I laid it at the foot of the cross.<br />
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I would see pretty posters and pretty pages with sayings all over the internet saying things like "You Are Enough" or "Be You" or "You Are Going To Be Okay"...and I would think to myself that it was not alright to say these things. That it was selfish or self-centered or psychology. But I have come to believe differently over the last few months.<br />
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Okay...these could be taken way out of context, but coming from a background of abuse and overcoming much and still having much to overcome...for a person who constantly strives to be what everyone else thinks she should be and say and do and not wanting to mess up so as not to disappoint them...for being tired because of it all...for being tired because I'm still stuck in this flesh suit until the day I die or the Day of the Lord, whichever comes first...<br />
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...these are exactly the things I need to hear. These are exactly the things we need to hear from one another. We only need to be the clay that Christ is molding us to be...not who any person on earth wants us to be or wants to sculpt us into. It's alright to be you...you are His workmanship. It's okay to feel. It's alright to have a day where you need to go aside for refreshing. You will be better for it and your family and loved ones will be happier you did it.<br />
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A long time ago we did a spiritual warfare study at the church we attended at the time. The teacher was from Last Days Ministries and his name was Dean Sherman. I remember a few things about that teaching but I specifically remember this point, "Don't let yourself, hear yourself, say anything about yourself, that God doesn't say about you." If you are thinking thoughts about yourself and how crummy you are, stop it! <br />
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Study the Scripture. See what the Lord God Almighty has written. Hear the things the Lord, the Creator of Everything says about you in His Book of Love...<br />
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You are a new creation! <br />
So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away--look, what is new has come (<a class="NETBibleTagged" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">2 Corinthians 5:17</a>)<br />
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You are the righteousness of God!<br />
God made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we would become the righteousness of God (<a class="NETBibleTagged" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">2 Corinthians 5:21</a>).<br />
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You are set free in Christ!<br />
For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be subject again to the yoke of slavery (<a class="NETBibleTagged" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Galatians 5:1</a>).<br />
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You are blessed with every spiritual blessing!<br />
Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed
us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms in Christ (<a class="NETBibleTagged" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Ephesians 1:3</a>).<br />
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You are His workmanship, created for good works in Christ!<br />
For we are his workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand so we may do them (<a class="NETBibleTagged" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Ephesians 2:10</a>).<br />
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You are guarded in your heart and mind by the peace of God!<br />
And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (<a class="NETBibleTagged" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Philippians 4:7</a>).<br />
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These are but a few of the promises of our Dear Heavenly Father and our Savior Christ Jesus!<br />
Now...<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Let yourself, hear yourself, say everything about yourself, that God says about you"!!!</span><br />
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Dear Heavenly Father help us to know we do not need to perform or act or pretend but we can be honest and open with one another knowing that we are clay in the Potter's Hand. He is making us into what He desires for His purpose. We submit to Him and obey Christ. Thank you Lord for showing us your love in your Word and for your keeping power. Help us to love one another and to be kind to one another...but also to ourselves. In Jesus Name, Amen<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-64594025443685068012016-05-05T23:51:00.000-04:002016-05-07T00:35:59.954-04:00When Overwhelm Creeps Up Like A Slow-Moving Fog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dear Sisters,<br />
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Sometimes, as the 'wearer of many hats', we lose sight of who we are and forget to take time for ourselves to refresh and become inspired. If you're like me, you try very hard to do everything right, and at times, it takes a toll. Discouragement creeps in like a slow-moving fog on a moonless night, it wants to envelop you and wrap you up, like a spider wrapping an insect.<br />
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I know about this because at times, things become overwhelming and I want to fold up and give in to the grip of despair. Yet, I do not let myself become consumed by the lie to give up, give in, forget my dreams and hopes and throw in the towel. No, I refuse to allow the enemy to dictate to me what my emotions and actions should be at any given moment!<br />
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I want to encourage you to recognize when the 'fog' is creeping up on you, when the lies of the enemy are becoming louder than real life. Acknowledge overwhelm for what it is, then as soon as possible, bow out of what is going on right then, whatever it is. Close yourself in another room, take a moment to chat with the Lord, wash your face, choose an encouraging Scripture to meditate on. Remind yourself that this scenario shall pass. We used to joke about sniffing lavender...but it's a real thing...have some on hand and sniff away!!! Bliss!<br />
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Go outside, pull weeds, walk around your yard and enjoy the scenery, sit and stare at the sky and think of the Greatness of God...take a few moments for yourself, to quiet yourself, to be still and know that He is God. It is not selfish, I promise. Ask God to fill you afresh, to pour into you until you are full...then make a plan to take some quality time for yourself. Sometimes we all need an afternoon or a day to be rejuvenated. Some of us need more, but I'm not in any phase of life where I can bow out for even a week! A day would be hard, and I cherish it when I get it!<br />
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Intentional, uninterrupted time, for me, is a precious commodity as I'm sure it is for most of you. We are well aware of all the things that take our time. I am suggesting that if you have something in your heart you've been craving to do...pray, read, paint, sketch, crochet, knit, write letters, call a loved one, go visit a neighbor...take the time to do it. Schedule it in if you have to, it will give you something to look forward to. You'll know the day and the hour is coming and it will brighten the days ahead of it. Then take it. Not only will you be refreshed in spirit, your family and loved ones will benefit because you will return revived.<br />
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Father, help my Sisters and I to know You are the first safe place we must run to when things begin to overwhelm us. Your Word gives us life as we meditate on it. You have blessed us with gifts and joys, dreams and hopes. Let us not become weary in well doing. Help us to take the time to enjoy the blessing of those things in life that are good and that fulfill our creativity. Thank you that every good and perfect gift is from you, Father of Lights. Show us how to use our creative gifts to glorify you as we aim to make our Home-Sweet a haven for those we love. In Jesus Name, Amen<br />
<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-79564656086200584272016-01-18T23:57:00.000-05:002016-01-19T00:19:13.276-05:00Intentionally Making Our Home-Sweet Part 1: The Peace of ChristNo graphics in this. Just a message from the heart to send, as a foundation for what the Lord leads to follow. We can Intentionally Make Our Home-Sweet...but we must start at the beginning. <br />
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There is no<u> true</u> peace without Christ.<br />
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We cannot rightly minister to others without ourselves being in right standing with God. Not if we really want to touch the part of them that matters: their heart.<br />
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In Christ we are assured the following:<br />
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The peace of forgiven sin - The Living Word, The Word Made Flesh. Christ in us the hope of glory.<br />
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The peace of knowing that no matter what happens in this world, our Father God is a Steadfast Rock that will never change.<br />
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The peace of knowing that when we have come to the end of it all, and are utterly spent, that the Father's Everlasting Arms are open and reaching to draw us in to His embrace.<br />
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The peace of the Written Word, the Love Letter, written to us. His truth, His instruction, His promises, His revelations, His light, His Saving Grace.<br />
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We can set about making every physical, outward thing beautiful and orderly; nothing out of place. Many succeed at this. Yet, inside, there is naught but an unhappy and troubled heart. A heart full of fear, anger and bitterness. A mind that is discontented, envious, set upon the things of this world and not that which is eternal.<br />
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The Christ Follower is to live with a mind set on things above, not on things of the earth where everything will fade and decay and moth can destroy and thief can steal. The mind that is set upon Christ is focused on eternity and how today, the present, will glorify Him eternally.<br />
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We must come to the place of fearing God, which is the beginning of wisdom. To understand the purpose and plan of your place in His eternity. To finally know it's not up to 'me', but up to Him, that allows such rest, peace, and comfort to our soul. This cannot be purchased, manipulated, manufactured, nor fabricated.<br />
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God's plan of Salvation, through His Son, The Savior, Christ Jesus, is unbelievable to those who have not tasted and seen that the Lord is good. Sadly, they are blinded to everything He has to offer.<br />
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On the other hand, to those who have turned their eyes upon Jesus, cannot deny the joy of receiving His Gift, His Life, His cleansing and the infilling of His Spirit. His presence fills every void space inside us. This is the Door, the Entrance to the Kingdom. That Divine Love floods our soul with rest from every thing that gives us struggle, conquering it as we surrender our will to His.<br />
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This fruit does not come unless the heart and life are fully surrendered. This fruit will only grow properly from a branch that is connected to the Vine, Christ.<br />
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This world is passing away. The comforts of this world, this life, are not the end. What will happen if our only source of comfort is in our possessions? What would we do when our possessions rust, decay or come to ruin?<br />
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First and foremost, we must have that heart relationship with our Heavenly Father, through Christ. Only a surrendered heart can bring peace to others. Only a surrendered heart can bring life to others. Only a surrendered heart can bring unselfish, true love to others.<br />
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We are called as followers of Christ, Who is The Way, The Truth and The Life, to deny ourselves, take up the cross and follow Him. Our lives should reflect the Kingdom of God. Is the reflection of Christ's beauty clear in our lives? Will those who look to us to see Him, see Him clearly?<br />
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And so, finally, how does this affect my home?<br />
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A heart at peace with it's Savior will reflect all that comes from the Savior, no matter where we are or how we are being poured out for His glory. Every circumstance and situation must reflect His peace. If it is yet a struggle, spend time with Him and sort it out. Remember what was said previously, we are on a journey. It is a walk taken one step at a time. Be willing and let him work.<br />
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Our homes should also be a reflection of every fruit of God's Spirit. In like manner, as the Spirit is poured into us, His vessels, we are then to be poured out to others.<br />
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It only makes sense that if we are filled to overflowing, we have more than enough to give to others.This infilling comes as we spend deliberate time with the Lord. What a joy that each day He will give us fresh manna, not only to sustain ourselves, but to nourish others as well.<br />
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When all is said and done, it is always about others. We know what this world is about, let us strive to show those who come into our homes and lives that we have been feasting on Heavenly Manna, and we have more than enough to share.<br />
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The Kingdom of God is within you. Since we are Christ's, it is possible to show the world what living in the Kingdom is like now. Not one sweet morning when this life is over.<br />
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Ask Father where to start. First in your heart, and then in your home. Empty your heart of clutter, and then set about to rid your home as well. The heart must precede the home.<br />
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A fresh start is a good thing and we know that every good and perfect gift comes from the Father of Lights who does not change like shifting shadows!<br />
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Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that those who read this reminder will take the time to consider what is written, take it to the Lord and set things in order in their hearts first, as the first stepping stone on this wonderful journey you have set before us, your people. Provide fresh manna for us and those you put in our paths. Thank you. In Christ Name. <br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-3552117654612552762016-01-16T18:06:00.001-05:002016-01-16T18:13:06.499-05:00Series: Intentionally Making Your Home-SweetIt has been my observation that life does not always afford circumstances that are blissful. In fact, it seems to be the opposite. I have come to find that Home-Sweet Living does not simply fall into place, rather it must be intentional.<br />
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The times we live in do not tend toward the fruit of the Spirit. On the contrary, this world's fruit is death according to God's Word.<br />
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With all the worries, fears, pressures and opportunities for anxiety today, there is an even greater need to bring a peaceful atmosphere into our homes, to make them a sanctuary of God's love. A refuge that guards against the world and the cares of this present age that try to weigh us down.<br />
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A home where love reigns. A dwelling where confusion is not allowed to enter. Not just a wooden or brick and mortar box that holds our belongings, but a sanctuary where our families, friends and even we, ourselves, can find rest, away from the stresses of everyday life.<br />
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In upcoming posts, I shall attempt to point out some areas where our homes and lives can be just that. True peace does not come upon entering a building, a house...or any physical place on this earth. True peace comes from the Savior. It is a heart attitude. A heart posture and a heart-home. Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world must dwell, abide, in our heart-home. If you have not allowed the Father, the Savior and the Holy Spirit to make their abode in you, as God's temple, there will be no true peace, no matter how tight a ship you run. This is of utmost importance. This must be the first place to have peace, so it can flow from Him to you to others.<br />
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As followers of Christ, we, in faith, are able to ask our beloved Father for wisdom, according to James 1:5-6. I have put this to the test and found it to be true on all accounts, in every situation. Bottom line, without Christ, we can do nothing! It is all vanity to believe we can bear the fruit of righteousness ourselves, apart from Christ. It won't work! It shall fail!<br />
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"I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing." John 15:5<br />
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The deceiver would have us believe that there are areas of our lives that God is not concerned about. That some things are so small that they are not necessary to take to the Throne of Grace. This is a lie from the enemy of our soul! According to Psalm 139, God's thoughts toward us outnumber the grains of the sand. Selah! If that is the case, then the minutest, most miniscule thing, is on His mind, toward us. His eye is on the sparrow, so I know He watches me! He is for us! He wants us to succeed in order to bring glory to His name! If God be for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31)? No one!!!<br />
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Once we understand we need wisdom, we must make asking for wisdom a priority. As home-makers/home-keepers, it is proper to go to God and ask for that wisdom from above. We must know how He desires us to minister to those He places in our lives. Ask for a Word, a Scripture, a starting point, a point of launch, and when you have it, write it down, print it out and hang it here and there in your home as a reminder of your mission from the Lord. Be mindful of those points of communication from the Lord to you, according to His Word. Always according to His Word.<br />
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Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6<br />
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You are not a 'bother' to God Almighty. Nothing is too trivial for His infinite power, wisdom, or patience.<br />
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Today, go to Him and lay down every burden, every struggle, every work in our own effort, and ask Him where to begin in your Intentional Home-Sweet Journey.<br />
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He will not disappoint you. Listen. Obey. Begin to walk in faith in the areas He is showing you! I will be on this journey too. We can encourage one another along the way!<br />
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I'd love to hear back from you. What word of encouraging Scripture has the Lord given you as a promise and a reminder to set you walking on the path to intentionally make your Home-Sweet?<br />
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Remember as you go: Life is a journey, it is a walk. Nothing happens overnight. Each day we can apply God's Infinite Wisdom to keep us on His path.<br />
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Father God, please bless the reader as they humbly ask for wisdom from above, Your wisdom. Guide them in their home-sweet journey and cause them to glorify You as they seek to do so in their lives and the lives of those you bring to them. In Jesus' Name, Amen.<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-28444597895094479552016-01-11T23:53:00.002-05:002016-01-11T23:54:31.401-05:00Ponderings<br />
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The month of January, for me, has always set me to thought. A brand new year with new opportunities. A clean slate. Times of refreshing and new beginnings.<br />
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The shorter winter days mean more indoor time for me. There is more time for indoor projects. Garden thoughts begin to stir. Thoughts of how to make better things happen with our livestock and birds.<br />
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I have set some goals for myself. Goals that will lead me in a new direction. I am happy for that.<br />
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I have set my new goals with you in mind. I am thankful for those of you who take the time to read my posts. I would like the time you come to visit to focus more on you and not so much on me anymore. I would like to offer some things to help you bring more focus on your home and the atmosphere you create, whether you are at home alone or in a house filled with people.<br />
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I would like to share some creative home-making projects. Inspiring you in filling your home with thoughtful things to bless those who live there or come for a visit or those whom the Lord impresses upon your heart to bless.<br />
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Making home doesn't take a lot of money, nor does it take fanciful items. Making home takes love, and out of that love can come a home where others can bask in the presence of the Lord Jesus, who right now has gone to make a home for us, that we may be where He is.<br />
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Let us follow the path of our Creator, and fill our homes with love, because love never fails.<br />
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My prayer is that we would spend time at the feet of our Dear Savior and learn how He would have us reflect His love in the home He has blessed us with, be it ever so humble. <br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-2645240897421028362015-05-22T23:59:00.001-04:002015-05-23T00:03:57.003-04:00Persecution in Pakistan<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I met a sister in Christ tonight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">She is a refugee, in Thailand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">She is going to mail her testimony to me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">She is 22 years old.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">She asked for help.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">She is so young.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Young and married.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Living in a building with about 50 families.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">They have needs, but remain faithful to Christ.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">And Christ will be faithful to them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I cannot say her name. But our Lord knows it, and He is El Shaddai!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">She said I could tell you about her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I will share more as I learn more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Lord, protect my new Sister/friend and her husband and all those who have fled persecution from Pakistan and now dwell together in Thailand. Please keep them strong in their most holy faith. Encourage them by your Spirit and let them bless their enemies and pray for them. Send help to them Father. In Christ Jesus' Mighty Name! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Amen </span></div>
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Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-25662796583860681762015-05-21T23:30:00.000-04:002015-05-21T23:32:45.164-04:00Spring Into Summer<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">I've been missing my blog.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">I've been missing you, my dear friends!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Missing checking in with you and filling you in on what's happening here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">What's happening here?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Well, a lot of things. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">The very best important thing is...we were blessed to become Grandparents on May 5, 2015. Our oldest son and his wife had a son. His name is Maximilian David Pantley. He is a beautiful boy and he has brought the sweetness of babyhood back into our home! We are savoring every opportunity to hold him and pray for him and cuddle him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">What else have we been up to?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Well, not much on the handiwork, but that is soon to change. We have ideas and are now preparing a place to work. The craft room, at the moment, is not working out. I need to be where I can see what's going on, at least for now, so we're setting up a work station in the living spaces.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Lydia and I are, very soon, trying our hand at making our own soap. When we think we're ready, we will offer it for sale, along with other handmade items, offered by us and by some friends. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Hurray for high hopes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Working on our garden and cleaning out goat pens and sheds. We have 3 bucklings and 2 doelings that were born within the last couple of weeks. This year we are letting the Mamas feed them and not bottle feeding. It does free us up for other things.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">That is a bit of a catch-up on the happenings in our neck of the woods. I have much to share, but this is a good start. It's good to be back. Lord willing, this is a new beginning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> Thank you Dearest Savior for all the blessings You have given us. We do not deserve anything from Your kind hand, yet You bestow Your grace and mercy on us each day and provide our needs as You see fit. Praise you for every Home-Sweet Thing You have provided. May we live to glorify You in every area of our lives. Amen</span></div>
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-61639200812116751552014-09-20T21:00:00.002-04:002014-09-20T21:02:47.226-04:00Is There An Echo In Here?Hello Dear Ones!<br />
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I am popping in to say 'Hello' and I haven't forgotten you. I am frantically attempting to get things ready for my oldest son's wedding on October 4th.<br />
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Housework, yard work, canning, freezing, dehydrating...mucking pens and cleaning coops. Weeding and moving manure! You get the picture!<br />
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On top of it...sewing. Sewing a wedding gown and an outfit for myself. The gown has to happen...my outfit...not such a big deal. But I will try!<br />
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Here is a cute photo of our meat birds that moved outside today. 48 to be exact. In my dining room. That dining room has had its share of transforming into a nursery this year!<br />
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Anyhow...they're outside and happy! So am I...48 birds equals a whole lot of dust and odor! Now I can really get down to cleaning inside the house for my family from Illinois! YAY!!<br />
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I really like my chickens! They are so cute...for now!<br />
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Blessings upon you and your Home-Sweet! Things should be back to 'normal' after the October 4th wedding! Until then...I'm still here!<br />
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Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-3580940268397707792014-08-19T23:53:00.000-04:002014-08-19T23:53:26.902-04:00Popping In To Say...Hello. .".<br />
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It's been a while.<br />
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All this time I've been busily working...hopefully not too much Martha. Too much Martha is not good! But honestly, it feels like lots of Martha.<br />
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I have come to understand the need to sit at the feet of Jesus. Mary had it right, she not only understood the need to come aside...she actually made it a priority. She took time to bask in His presence OVER EVERYTHING ELSE!!! <br />
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Jesus told Martha she was troubled about many things. He told her she was distracted. He told her one thing was necessary, one thing needful. Mary chose that part. That good part.<br />
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Sitting at His feet and listening to Him.<br />
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The Lord said it wouldn't be taken away from Mary...those things learned from time spent with Him.<br />
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That's one big thing I learned this summer. The best thing. All the other things that I learned and did pale in comparison. There were probably many times I was troubled and distracted. But always, the Holy Spirit reminded me of that one needful thing. My heart ached at times for it.<br />
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Sitting at Jesus' feet and listening to Him. <br />
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Hallelujah!<br />
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So much to tell. Summer stories. But I'll leave that for next time!<br />
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It might not be a bad thing to sit and take the time to read Luke 10:38-42.<br />
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What will Jesus tell you while you sit at His feet and hear His word?<br />
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May the Holy Father, the Only Wise God liberate you to sit at the feet of His Dear Son, Jesus Christ the Lord of All. Be blessed! <br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-55537680469684245172014-04-28T23:35:00.000-04:002014-04-28T23:36:22.818-04:00Helpers Galore and Accomplishments!Well, the day worked out just as I had planned. To that I say, 'Praise be to God'!!!<br />
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The day's projects were completed and I am tired-but happy.<br />
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I wanted to:<br />
<ul>
<li> clean out the winter mess under the roof leading to the back door...done! </li>
<li> organize the garden stuff I still use...done! </li>
<li> put pallets down to hold boxes for a Memorial Day Weekend yard sale...done! </li>
<li> rake the section of the drive to the pole barn...done! </li>
<li>all the invasive plants/weeds mixed in with my unfortunate, neglected raspberries, pulled 'and banished from my garden...forevermore! (I do not know what this weed is...I have a photo...if you have seen this plant and know its name...please...by all means inform me! It has a mass of underground runners that go forth from what I call the 'mother' plant and it proceeds to take over the entire area and choke out every good thing you may want there. One little plug of it can eventually 'own' the place it decides to dwell in.) Not nice. Not nice indeed!</li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">What is this stuff???</span></span></td></tr>
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Tomorrow, when there is a lull in the predicted rain that is coming in, I will finish up mulching the raspberries and be very satisfied. There are so many things on my to-do list...and that was a big one, having been neglected these past two years. Unfortunately, there are spots where the berry canes have either been choked or simply died. I will have to transplant some of the volunteer shoots coming up. <br />
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Spring is a time for work after a long winter's rest and work is what is going on here! We have our share. The weedy flower beds are getting cleaned out and will soon be ready to transplant. I haven't figured out the flower placement yet, but am contemplating all the time. It will come together. I am doing my best to eradicate my useless lawn and replace it with food.<br />
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Lydia asked me how much of the elephant we bit off today! :) I think she may be getting it. Maybe.<br />
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I overheard the conversation between her and her friend as they were pulling that horrid weed in the raspberries...saying, of all things, that they were enjoying themselves!!!<br />
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I said not a word. Mama's have to know when to let satisfaction occur internally and not ruin it with a comment!!! Have all the fun you want girls! I will not try to stop you!!<br />
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I am looking forward to rain coming in though, I started transplanting our pepper and tomato seedlings that finally grew their true leaves and will continue that task when I'm stuck indoors. Depending on the weather, I have a lot of sewing to do. I want to make a pair of summer bloomers to wear under my skirt and I have aprons to make. I also have to perfect the covering/cap I am working on. The instructions are vague and I have made 3 already and still am not satisfied with the results. There are ladies waiting for a completed pattern and I will post it when finished, hopefully we will be blessed with enough rain that will allow me time to work on it this spring/summer. <br />
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Mosquitoes and ticks are out now. Every day one of us finds a wood tick on us. Thank the Lord there are no deer ticks so far! Ticks are gross and make me cringe! Ew!<br />
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KatyJoy still has NOT had her kid/kids!!! Here she was a week ago...large as anything...showing signs, but nothing! The baby/babies are on the passenger side (bottom of the photo). Poor Mama...heavy for sure!<br />
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And that is a little bit of what is going on here at the Home-Sweet. There is always something to share, always something new and exciting!<br />
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Proverbs 13:4 - 'The soul of the sluggard desires, and has nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.'<br />
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I am so thankful for the accomplishments of the day! God be praised that three of my children, my daughter -in-love to be and I, along with Lydia's friend had good fellowship and productivity, a sunny day and happy laughter. A true blessing indeed. I love my children and am thankful that the Lord is healing them and will bring those who don't yet know Him into the fold when He sees fit. I trust Him and His perfect timing. 'For I know in Whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is faithful, to keep that which I've committed unto Him against that day.' 2 Timothy 1:12<br />
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Praise Him! <br />
<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-85918283185588682502014-04-24T23:59:00.001-04:002014-04-25T00:03:29.789-04:00Raspberry Lessons*Typed while enjoying Bigelow "I Love Lemon" tea! YUM! <br />
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I spent most of today working on pruning and cleaning up my raspberry bushes. The weather was just right and they really needed <strike>some</strike> an immense amount of attention. I managed to get 1/4th of the bushes pruned, the dead canes cut out and weeding begun. We are going on two years of neglect, so it will take more than one day to finish the job. After all the weeding, pruning and dead cane removing, they will have to be mulched with the chicken-finished goat mulch. They are excellent at making mulch and it makes the garden grow fantastically!<br />
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Here are a couple of photos of what I accomplished so far:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWayFnBLCySO8CBmjTnrM3VGJnsNLc_2yQ8NN1gZwtnOlJuQmbWSeqgTJBCXUhka6vND1i0E5l51ciwdJfSCAznDVjzr4S2n9UmRnx0mNnyy78zh-Cs9z4YEIe6-yWu8gk8fGcfxQsfVo/s1600/raspberrymess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWayFnBLCySO8CBmjTnrM3VGJnsNLc_2yQ8NN1gZwtnOlJuQmbWSeqgTJBCXUhka6vND1i0E5l51ciwdJfSCAznDVjzr4S2n9UmRnx0mNnyy78zh-Cs9z4YEIe6-yWu8gk8fGcfxQsfVo/s1600/raspberrymess.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is the mess I am dealing with!</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Still looking messy, but the canes are tied</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFL-a5agwEpM0l4vJTicRjYU0C5_JDueZ2CkTPhWBdZ5dsB9OH4O4y-FChsC0hXkqaPHK4wu8qHOhRn-NLoQZE-meUP-XOMOJmXuYWoFFhOW-eZmUl7qyRlqvA8b9nStaK-4v74JaY4nA/s1600/raspberryrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFL-a5agwEpM0l4vJTicRjYU0C5_JDueZ2CkTPhWBdZ5dsB9OH4O4y-FChsC0hXkqaPHK4wu8qHOhRn-NLoQZE-meUP-XOMOJmXuYWoFFhOW-eZmUl7qyRlqvA8b9nStaK-4v74JaY4nA/s1600/raspberryrow.jpg" height="508" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">A closer look at the tied canes</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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As I prune and clean these up I think on John 15 where the Lord explains to the disciples that He is the true vine and the Father is the husbandman. Every branch that does not bear fruit he takes away. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes that it may bear more fruit.Then He goes on to say that unless we abide in the vine we cannot bear fruit and that it is as we abide that we bring forth much fruit...because without the Lord Jesus Christ, we can do nothing.<br />
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I wonder as I carefully tend these berries if that is how the Lord works on our hearts. Cutting out the dead branches and casting them aside, as I've done, pruning those things from us that hinder our walk, the dead works and feeble attempts at living this life without Him, they lose life and dry up and die. They are only good for the fire!<br />
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Those branches that remain are budding forth with life and with the promise of bearing abundant fruit for the season, just as our hearts and lives bear fruit as we abide in His love and presence and are nourished from His life-giving Word. To be connected to Him is our very life!<br />
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This is what I think of over and over as I snip and prune and pull weeds and tie the canes into orderly rows. I imagine the fruit that will grow and pray that God will be blessed with much good fruit from my heart and life for His Kingdom as I grow into His likeness.<br />
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I absolutely enjoy working in my gardens, this process of cleaning up the mess from two years of neglect is an opportunity to take the many lessons that Jesus taught and apply them to real life lessons.<br />
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God started it all in a garden, and I can totally see why!<br />
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I pray that as you spend time in His presence you will allow Him to tend you and prune you so that you may bear abundant fruit, fit for the Master's use! Amen<br />
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What gardening are you doing at your Home-Sweet this week?<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-38739695548866159332014-04-22T22:50:00.001-04:002014-04-24T23:16:06.084-04:00Home AgainWe were able to get away to meet with beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ this past weekend. It was a wonderful time in the Lord and it went too quickly! Some day there will be no separation...Maranatha, Come Lord Jesus!<br />
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Still, back home means back to work. Lots of work. The gardens have been 'resting' for two years (maybe more in some spots) and there will be back-breaking, hard, tiring work to do until it's cleaned up and planted.<br />
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For those of you who asked...KatyJoy still has not had her kids! Hard to believe, but true. This has been going on for some time now, but her udder really is filling out and it has to be any time ...!!!<br />
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Mimi the doeling...is doing wonderful and now that I'm back home I'm weaning her and she'll be outside at night again. Praise the Lord for her restoration! It was a bit touch and go there, but when you pray and ask God for wisdom, He gives it! Between probiotics and electrolytes, and two injections, she's right as rain again. I learn as I go. Research done under the Lord's tutelage.<br />
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Lydia and I went out and tackled a portion of our pea fence this morning. It took us a while, but that little section shows progress. My garden is a sight to behold. It's shameful! I'm sure it would send chills up and down the spines of most avid gardeners I know. It makes me shudder too! But, I have vision for it and can see the beautiful finished product! It's going to take a lot of time and energy, but we'll get the job done. I am determined.<br />
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I'm going to keep it somewhat short tonight. I'm tired from the rush to finish my garden goal today (clean off fence section and get some peas in before it rains). I think I'll go read for a bit and try to put down the Kindle before it smacks me in the face as I fall asleep! Can anyone relate?<br />
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Blessed be the Name of the Lord for keeping us, providing for us and protecting us. The Lord Jesus Christ is the only answer I have for all of life's dilemmas. God is good and His mercy endureth forever! Praise Him!<br />
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What is your garden goal for the week at your Home-Sweet? May the Lord grant you the grace and strength to meet your goal! <br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-45645902798814913042014-04-12T23:59:00.001-04:002014-04-13T00:00:01.777-04:00Productive Day!Today I felt as if I raced from one thing to another.<br />
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Tending to KatyJoy first thing to see if we had kids...nope! She's still breathing harder, but not much going on. Udders filling up quickly...really any time now!<br />
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Giving Mimi a bottle (she's still in the dining room!), little chicks...dogs...THEN...coffee!<br />
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Right away getting milking done and other chores.<br />
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Then the house was empty, so I pretended I had nothing to do except clean my kitchen and do laundry. Wow, did that feel good! I just really like to do the housework, especially when I am the only one home! I love my family a whole lot, but I am not alone much, so I appreciate alone time, I think it makes me productive!<br />
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Spent time taking photos of bees when Mr. Home-Sweet was checking his new package hives. They've been in there two weeks now so he wanted to get in there and take a peek to make sure there was a queen laying eggs. He found all the queens and there were eggs in all the hives. Good! Here are a couple of photos:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlReVT5R6mxTMviBo6qlErMcrp-GfbHXZH4z9mx6xT6qDJpMj6kBC0xq2xn3VXtaaimDf0QwQu73iFmxy2mk15lSKZRIUgldjLq_pBT83hlUh1fGs5dXynvrR35qrwz5VoogaOqJvHzs/s1600/walltowallbees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlReVT5R6mxTMviBo6qlErMcrp-GfbHXZH4z9mx6xT6qDJpMj6kBC0xq2xn3VXtaaimDf0QwQu73iFmxy2mk15lSKZRIUgldjLq_pBT83hlUh1fGs5dXynvrR35qrwz5VoogaOqJvHzs/s1600/walltowallbees.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wall-to-Wall Bees!</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGK8FlHhTUtdAZPbJDUcQbZVYZ2iRQiqnUTXRPXUqiK-VtOk2vGQ2DfhUoydhb09cHfAd8Wi4SbpsnfsJpPSRVbsJedNcA3EBqXxoJqHB2tWQZvk8WwIyFnEK-6fcRC6gn42s6OMoq5TQ/s1600/queenshot1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGK8FlHhTUtdAZPbJDUcQbZVYZ2iRQiqnUTXRPXUqiK-VtOk2vGQ2DfhUoydhb09cHfAd8Wi4SbpsnfsJpPSRVbsJedNcA3EBqXxoJqHB2tWQZvk8WwIyFnEK-6fcRC6gn42s6OMoq5TQ/s1600/queenshot1.jpg" height="640" width="590" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here Is The Queen</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJRcTdQU2-s6eEqCUedynk3hh8hoSH3Wjm3xRtkW_y2jYboT0nzJwHFwa5KYZuBhpT0tESwSgp_LkgADD-2VYagYvYi7R7g7wg6cd_tEnOJwgvWN-12yHnVPK3of0jHXB3MVE-ohML4o/s1600/morebrood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJRcTdQU2-s6eEqCUedynk3hh8hoSH3Wjm3xRtkW_y2jYboT0nzJwHFwa5KYZuBhpT0tESwSgp_LkgADD-2VYagYvYi7R7g7wg6cd_tEnOJwgvWN-12yHnVPK3of0jHXB3MVE-ohML4o/s1600/morebrood.jpg" height="406" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Lots Of Capped Brood</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbURgxP0DLR-SyngSfEgfWQnrVJkPeMLdyUhMqcAbE8GXUyLRUgPC6POe9xvrkRoBflIBwwgxJA-YpoE76BtcA5RWnVJaoPb1wayKywqwdYJaZxL-7RtNKrwrS8LcAIdk7KjxC3MJ6JcM/s1600/pollenbaskets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbURgxP0DLR-SyngSfEgfWQnrVJkPeMLdyUhMqcAbE8GXUyLRUgPC6POe9xvrkRoBflIBwwgxJA-YpoE76BtcA5RWnVJaoPb1wayKywqwdYJaZxL-7RtNKrwrS8LcAIdk7KjxC3MJ6JcM/s1600/pollenbaskets.jpg" height="640" width="510" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Look At His Bright Yellow Pollen Baskets!</span></span></td></tr>
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Then I had to go and plant a blueberry bush...and I did, with the sun beating down on me, but it was good to get another one planted. I gave them all a good watering and have to go do more tomorrow!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9Z6G5wguIiBbRRjaCReoziEpIc6Q2dw4ixlhB4pX4dEvULytihJHsagTtD9KBIweVl_iEoDAFvFwHEiw8MGdGl6MwSCYzaW4SSlltWoFj32z6wcdvITNqtHPIAoD2MU0nyybYG4QrzE/s1600/blueberryplantin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9Z6G5wguIiBbRRjaCReoziEpIc6Q2dw4ixlhB4pX4dEvULytihJHsagTtD9KBIweVl_iEoDAFvFwHEiw8MGdGl6MwSCYzaW4SSlltWoFj32z6wcdvITNqtHPIAoD2MU0nyybYG4QrzE/s1600/blueberryplantin.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Blueberry Bush</span></span></td></tr>
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Had to run to Tractor Supply for kid feed and chicken stuff. Dawdled around in there and came home.<br />
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Took it easy later with Mr. Home-Sweet. Good day!<br />
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I am thankful for a productive day here at the Home-Sweet...little by little we are getting things done. Each year making more happen. Praise the Lord for a good day! <br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-7488384667836291622014-04-11T23:17:00.000-04:002014-04-11T23:17:08.971-04:00Busy Tending Doe...More Tomorrow!This is just a quick post to say that I will be up all night watching and waiting for our doe KatyJoy to kid. We've been checking her all day and nothing yet. She's definitely in labor, the waiting is the worst!<br />
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Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to share pics of the little darlin'/s. It's her first time so it's hard to tell just how many she'll have. Just when we were almost done weaning the other 7...here come some more!<br />
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So, I'll be back tomorrow with some news!<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-23198097876134486772014-04-10T23:45:00.000-04:002014-04-10T23:45:01.350-04:00Thankful For Simple Blessings!Happy Day All!<br />
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Yesterday, I managed to get to a bit, a very small bit of thrifting...and was going to post some of the cloth-goodness I was able to purchase...but instead, I spent the day outside working and inside doing laundry. It was so windy today! What a good day to get several loads of laundry on the line! The stuff dries in no time! It brought kite flying to mind. Quite enjoyable...but you know me...I REALLY LIKE doing laundry! I'll try to share photos tomorrow.<br />
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I did get to take a few outdoor photos today while meandering around with my Home-Sweet #1 Son chatting about all the work there is to do this year around here. He's getting married in September, you know. They're trying to learn a bunch of things that will be useful for them throughout their married journey. She wants to learn handiwork, seed planting, canning...etc... They want to learn about caring for animals, and 9 of the Dixie Rainbow chicks I bought last week are theirs. I figured I couldn't go wrong at 50 cents a chick!<br />
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I'm not going to bore you with a bunch of chatting tonight, I'll share some photos I took outside today instead. It was a lovely day even if it was windy. I enjoyed walking around with my son planning projects. We're going to be busy working AND getting ready for a wedding! This will not be a boring year for sure!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0md6a1yNan8jdqMytajU3ZS0ezuHjY2O3Rg81MCG31Ga5WomyjB99ZeFUnoqdMJaIl9hF9T4qUaaKi-Y1x_mGoKgof8dsQ2-s4ZyMcMCuvi7Q-ZlMjHDdYuBwkodnU_ajQ2oKJ0wf8U/s1600/blueberry+holes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0md6a1yNan8jdqMytajU3ZS0ezuHjY2O3Rg81MCG31Ga5WomyjB99ZeFUnoqdMJaIl9hF9T4qUaaKi-Y1x_mGoKgof8dsQ2-s4ZyMcMCuvi7Q-ZlMjHDdYuBwkodnU_ajQ2oKJ0wf8U/s1600/blueberry+holes.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Blueberry Holes All Ready To Go!</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Son #1 said he'd do it...and he did it! Notice how sandy our soil is. About a foot of topsoil and then pure river bottom sand</span>. Not very nutritious for many plants, but blueberries don't mind bad soil, they love acid. Our yard used to be mostly pine trees, so we should be good and acid-y for them. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig9xLNVyTOYjYLWt6FHwDcT3pDtpW4haM8dP-R3lrFLxnxIvVOJey9_IquQFhzcCfPJj214WcbNKxExxVL2ANhBrB3z5N0sSf8wX3aSYjRmz1ZnB31fUoDb-WreAETJM8Ulr6ZySPh_Fw/s1600/bees1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig9xLNVyTOYjYLWt6FHwDcT3pDtpW4haM8dP-R3lrFLxnxIvVOJey9_IquQFhzcCfPJj214WcbNKxExxVL2ANhBrB3z5N0sSf8wX3aSYjRmz1ZnB31fUoDb-WreAETJM8Ulr6ZySPh_Fw/s1600/bees1.jpg" height="232" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pretty Bees Working In The Sun</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9vm9k1jD8oi9i5GXpCtoAD9OmB6BVk_S_DV4Bug2o1o0qEmObKv_QiZrtw6rUuuYvZZ5moadFkAPw95AQvdDjSQm3jYYqexGPtPoWEDYb6ES7a5USDlzB9_F9TFwXomKx5IIIsBzOSw/s1600/bees2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9vm9k1jD8oi9i5GXpCtoAD9OmB6BVk_S_DV4Bug2o1o0qEmObKv_QiZrtw6rUuuYvZZ5moadFkAPw95AQvdDjSQm3jYYqexGPtPoWEDYb6ES7a5USDlzB9_F9TFwXomKx5IIIsBzOSw/s1600/bees2.jpg" height="640" width="432" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Coming In For A Landing and Communicating</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgax6gJZRQjBSaXZnKwRQUHTQlQHBmMJYFQiSAHbQPBfSvrYGeNxOYuXWV8SSDyP0k8borzkuqthDfVImMubixBbU6wdBA6U-1yfY_sgam0yinAbE1CYIkWWgLl_ydeAMTKLh_jz0HDleM/s1600/bees3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgax6gJZRQjBSaXZnKwRQUHTQlQHBmMJYFQiSAHbQPBfSvrYGeNxOYuXWV8SSDyP0k8borzkuqthDfVImMubixBbU6wdBA6U-1yfY_sgam0yinAbE1CYIkWWgLl_ydeAMTKLh_jz0HDleM/s1600/bees3.jpg" height="462" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Amazing...God's Handiwork!!! Awesome!! Notice How Fuzzy They Are!</span></span></td></tr>
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Part of our livestock and livelihood is bees. Home-Sweet Husband keeps hives here and at a local farm. They provide beautiful dark honey for us and for many people each year. We already have orders for this year's honey...and it's not even harvested yet! It's in high demand! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pnaOeF_lTqvdk9bjM7BHRKhIZS5XJ4yKSXHjynxrSE9ivOBg5cApSxxyojYQZxrHmK2UD-TLCjIgboERRFZOVP2lCi6X13dLN2xrDUBcSMNphA3yLuCpKvShR06wkVeWk7Xh4HS6Jls/s1600/LightningHappyFace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pnaOeF_lTqvdk9bjM7BHRKhIZS5XJ4yKSXHjynxrSE9ivOBg5cApSxxyojYQZxrHmK2UD-TLCjIgboERRFZOVP2lCi6X13dLN2xrDUBcSMNphA3yLuCpKvShR06wkVeWk7Xh4HS6Jls/s1600/LightningHappyFace.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">This Is Lightning - He's A Proud Papa This Year!</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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Look at this handsome young Nigerian Dwarf buck! Home-Sweet Son #2 was astounded at how Amish looking his beard is! He's sweet too, not too rammy. He was one of the first kids to be born here two years ago. He's grown into a mighty fine buck! As I was walking past him I noticed he had hay on his head. He likes to use his horns to break up his morning hay flake. Silly boy! He smiles pretty for the camera too! What a ham!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSU3UtH0SmRFBWBtjWXb6nUh_OrgrUF8pBbUtxIbmdeUZxyrG9v4a_kkYaXYALvWsQpG4X39yjUKWvZ9Ix-ThH-D-AujpgZNF3STHdINLqPLu-EPlgr-L_3TIXELF9zkv_QhazSu2s0Y/s1600/Lightning2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSU3UtH0SmRFBWBtjWXb6nUh_OrgrUF8pBbUtxIbmdeUZxyrG9v4a_kkYaXYALvWsQpG4X39yjUKWvZ9Ix-ThH-D-AujpgZNF3STHdINLqPLu-EPlgr-L_3TIXELF9zkv_QhazSu2s0Y/s1600/Lightning2.jpg" height="640" width="546" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">He's Got A Wonderful Smile! </span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0jtag0HANnHJkQHkM2hJKwVtTo562NGGNiWyd2wS2L67Vo5w0WkN4WttSQnTKbpADRvt4VSON6irJAIHze-1sc-Rrt4gAXFBK_IMOXAia5eZgeHuyT6CXqHfTMqVTLZNHXSbfQ3pQClc/s1600/100_7449cresize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0jtag0HANnHJkQHkM2hJKwVtTo562NGGNiWyd2wS2L67Vo5w0WkN4WttSQnTKbpADRvt4VSON6irJAIHze-1sc-Rrt4gAXFBK_IMOXAia5eZgeHuyT6CXqHfTMqVTLZNHXSbfQ3pQClc/s1600/100_7449cresize.jpg" height="324" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Flowering Quince Waking Up From A Long, Hard Winter</span></span></td></tr>
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I have been checking on this quince for weeks now. Watching the buds get larger and larger. I was thrilled today when I went over to check it and saw buds and tiny leaves! Last year it even had one fruit on it . I think you can make quince jelly with the fruit from flowering quince. So pretty!<br />
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Well, that's a bit of my photo walk today. I was especially delighted and praised God to see the quince leaves out and the flower blossoms! I have been checking them for weeks! I like this photo and am going to send it off to my niece Alissa to make a new Spring header for me. She does a great job!<br />
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Now that Spring has arrived, we're going to be very busy doing many Home-Sweet Things! If we get to finish half of what we have planned, we'll be accomplishing much! There will be lots of hole digging for fenceposts, some butchering lessons, planting lessons and landscape things to figure out. In all our plans though we must say...'if the Lord wills'. It should be a very productive year!<br />
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Praise God for each day we have to see and appreciate the small blessings He gives. Take joy in each moment and breathe a prayer of thanksgiving for Our Heavenly Father gives us many things to enjoy, if we take the time to notice them! Thank you Father! Amen<br />
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What small blessings were you thankful for today at your Home-Sweet?<br />
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Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-16754189130607063492014-04-09T23:59:00.001-04:002014-04-10T00:04:21.953-04:00Edible LandscapingWhat do you think about edible landscaping? About Permaculture/Permanent Agriculture? <br />
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I cannot remember where I heard it, but I once read gardener's quote that said, "If you still have grass, your garden is too small." ...or something like that. The point is, why do we have a lawn over a garden? Who created lawn and what's the point? It makes work that does not produce anything lasting or of any value and we get no real benefit from it in the long run. In fact, the work in maintaining lawn is never ending (and sometimes causes pride and envy!).<br />
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In my opinion, if you're going to spend time and energy keeping something, why not grow food? There are so many things that can be grown that are edible and ornamental...way prettier than grass! And more useful too!<br />
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These days, when people are stressed out and running ragged, it makes sense to spend a bit of time each day relaxing in the garden. If gardening is done right, it is not a chore, it is therapy! It's good for the spirit and soul. It gives one time to ponder and the benefits are not only invisible...they reap fruits and vegetables! It's a win-win deal!<br />
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What about growing food and helping reduce dependence on the grocery store? You know right where your food came from AND the bonus to your pocketbook is a help too! <br />
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God started the world with a garden for people. The world has moved far away from what God has intended, yet there has been a surge these past years to return to the agrarian lifestyle. If the agrarian lifestyle is not possible where you live, you can still garden. If you live in a city and have a balcony, you can garden. Hey, they even sell countertop gardens for apartment dwellers who have no balcony or dirt access!<br />
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Gardening, and turning your lawn into a productive piece of land is also
great for the children/grandchildren of the family. It is an
opportunity to spend much time together. Children learn the benefit of
each one putting in his labor for the blessing of all. It is a chance to pass on the wisdom and knowledge one generation has acquired to the next generation. <br />
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This is my goal in my little acre this year. To take the spaces that are bare, where nothing is growing, and turn it into a garden that will keep us alive. Perennial and annual. Not just to fill in spaces, but to make things work together as pleasing to the eye, yet having a purpose beyond eye candy!<br />
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So, you will find me talking about this quite a bit this year as I work at changing things around here. It's going to take time, there will be a lot of physical labor. In the end though, it will be well worth it.<br />
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Are you ready to make the necessary changes in your Home-Sweet landscape to create a sustainable spot of earth for your family? It is possible, and everyone working together teaches many lessons. Life lessons that cannot be learned on TV or video games! Take the plunge...it cannot be done all at once...but it can be done!<br />
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Praise God for the opportunity to take His earth and be productive and creative and all the while be a blessing to our own family as well as others. This is a bit of what one-anothering is all about!<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-72746577989043139622014-04-08T23:58:00.002-04:002014-04-09T00:00:31.922-04:00Blueberry Holes, Happy Doe and Baby Chick UpdateWell, the inevitable has happened...the blueberries arrived this afternoon. :) It rained yesterday and the wind blew and blew. There was no digging holes yesterday.<br />
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Home-Sweet #1 Son has stepped up to the plate. He dug 2 or 3 holes this evening and will do more tomorrow. I did not remove the berries from their protective boxes in order to keep them safe.<br />
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With his help the berries should get planted in good order.<br />
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A Happy Ending!<br />
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The indoor menagerie is doing well. Mimi the little doe has bounced back, literally. She is hopping all around the dining room, kitchen and long hallway. We started taking her outside again to acclimate her to goathood. She thinks she's a lapdog like our two chihuahuas. This is not good. I have to force myself to let her be a goat.<br />
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The chicks are growing and kicking up dust, just like chicks do. I need to get them outside ASAP! I do not like chick dust all over everything. They are already growing by leaps and bounds!<br />
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The pepper and tomato seedlings are growing. I am just seeing the very beginning of true leaves on the peppers. Good, there will be a large amount of paper pot making and transplanting. I always feel better when they are transplanted, less chance of turning spindly. I think so anyway. <br />
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Tomorrow I am going with a friend to a large town near us. I hope to be able to do a bit of thrifting, if we have time. Then it's home to dig, dig, dig!<br />
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I do not lead a very exciting life! But I really do not mind at all.<br />
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Here's praying that the hum-drum of living and serving God at your Home-Sweet is as much of a blessing to you as the very, very exciting days...because you are glorifying God in all things! Blessings! <br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-15148101539441299912014-04-07T23:58:00.001-04:002014-04-08T00:03:45.222-04:00A Story About Working Together, Elderberries, Roots and Creeping MyrtleA lot of my day tends to cycle around animals, with a little time left in between to take care of other things that need to be done. Managing my time seems to be my biggest struggle. There is so much to be
done, especially in the spring, I go to bed quite exhausted. I am not
getting any younger either, that fact alone adds to the time frame. So, when I can get help...I take it! <br />
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This time of year, it is of the utmost importance to set priorities. When planting seeds there is a window of opportunity and if you miss it you'll have to go to the garden shop and buy plants for $3 each (or more!). When you purchase those plants, you have a certain amount of time to get them in the ground or they won't fruit. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIPbdYPqgb8Z-gmDqunr_xfoWcq9T7Ju-dn7XCZAkdwdIQq6nKAhRm3O7_S1xfAi0ybGi2MW60fzCzKmNQbCdV3iw6QVGncQFxt3no6LyMS_atQ41FsD2DrSiK_oQk9NqJ_GV_UVT5pg/s1600/nova+elderberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIPbdYPqgb8Z-gmDqunr_xfoWcq9T7Ju-dn7XCZAkdwdIQq6nKAhRm3O7_S1xfAi0ybGi2MW60fzCzKmNQbCdV3iw6QVGncQFxt3no6LyMS_atQ41FsD2DrSiK_oQk9NqJ_GV_UVT5pg/s1600/nova+elderberry.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">This is the finished elder planting</span></b><span style="font-size: large;">. </span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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So our elderberries came. I only bought two (you have to buy two-they need each other). We knew they were coming, and we did not procrastinate. The plants we got were bare root plants. They need to be put in the ground right away, the roots can not dry out.<br />
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Mr. Home-Sweet and I decided on a location that was going to be a challenge to dig. It is at the edge of the woods, which makes for lots and lots of underground roots snarled together in a tangle that would make the best un-knotter in the history of taking out knots hand in their trophy - if there was such a competition! (I googled it and did not find such a competition - on the first page anyway.)<br />
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Well, Sunday was a bright, sunny day. A bit breezy. Warm-ish.<br />
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I watched a little Youtube clip on 'How to Plant Elderberry'. I took notes. I walked to the planting area. Mr. Home-Sweet decided now was the time to pick the spot for the 12 blueberry plants that are coming. So, he sent me back inside to look for information on planting blueberry bushes. See, the elderberries did not come with any kind of specific instructions for planting, so we figured the blueberries wouldn't either. Generic...oh yes, but nothing specific. I need specific and Mr. Home-Sweet definitely does as he was<strike> brandishing</strike> utilizing his tape measure as is his custom. I am very detail oriented, Mr. tends to be careful about placing, and does not worry about the surrounding environment. This makes working together very interesting.<br />
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The area we decided upon was covered with creeping myrtle. Anyone who has ever tried to rid an area of creeping myrtle knows with what a shudder I shudder upon remembrance. It was everywhere with it's gnarled top 2" of root masses intertwined like a city road map of New York City or Chicago. Oh my!<br />
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Mr. Home-Sweet just wanted to dig in and make a hole. I insisted upon clearing at least a space 3 feet around. This Mr. tolerated. :) Not without a bit of commentary about knowing a few things about planting. I would have torn out all the creeping myrtle if I was allowed...but alas, the elder roots would have dried out and it would have taken me at least 3 days of ripping, tearing, nonstop work. Where does creeping myrtle come from anyway? A little bird must have planted it and it has been allowed to run amok from the time it sprouted! That and I have never cared to plant anything of any value there before.<br />
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In the end, we managed to plant the two elderberries, although I was inside watching Youtube videos while he was outside digging the first large hole. When I went out with a mason jar of blueberry herbal iced tea he had the first hole finished and informed me he near had a heart attack digging it. So, I started digging the second one...well, I did not have a heart attack, but such a mass of roots has not been seen in a hole since God first placed a curse on the ground! Poor Adam and Eve! Mr. Home-Sweet got the splitting maul and took to hacking through the roots. After some time, we had success. We filled the holes with rabbit manure and good chicken worked manure/hay mix and planted those elderberries in the ground! Success!<br />
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I was informed that I need to hire someone to dig the 12 holes for the coming blueberry bushes!<br />
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Anyone want a job?<br />
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Oh the blessed and wonderful life of getting a little one acre homestead started. I am thankful we had success at planting our first elderberry bushes, even if we had to rest a bit now and then. It was a lovely hard-working day together with laughs and discussion and a good finished product! Praise the Lord!<br />
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What are you doing at your Home-Sweet this spring?<br />
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Thank you Father for the gift of spring! For learning to work together as a team, using each of our talents to bless the other. Thank you for your gift of life and especially eternal life in Christ Jesus! Amen <br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-10254645850893380222014-04-06T23:43:00.001-04:002014-04-06T23:43:32.402-04:00Sunday Meditations for April 6th, 2014Today I'd like to post a message by one of my favorite evangelists, preachers, teachers and prophets. He was also a prayer warrior. Leonard Ravenhill. He's very challenging. This message is only one of many to be listened to. Be blessed.<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-65763197535284527292014-04-05T23:59:00.001-04:002014-04-06T00:06:38.071-04:00Home-Sweeet Homestead News For April 5th, 2014It was a brisk <strike>October</strike> April day today. Chilly and
gray! Not too good for outside work. I've been trying to clean goat areas little by little. Time consuming, but very necessary. Now that the snow is melted, I can see all the work to be done...and I have to think about how to eat an elephant! (One bite at a time!)<br />
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I've
got some things coming up to keep me busy in the next few days. Today I
received two elderberry bushes I ordered from Stark Bros. I've been
wanting to go elderberry picking for a few years now and can't seem to
beat the birds. At least with my own bushes I can put bird netting over
them and hope to get some for my own use. Mostly medicinal, no, not wine.<br />
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I have 12
blueberry plants coming too. We used to go into the woods in
Pennsylvania foraging for wild blueberries, but I don't know what I'd
ever do if I met up with a bear and it's not something I want to find
out. I was buying some from a man who grew them, but he was not local
and getting to him was not always convenient. So, a one-time investment
will take care of that and after a few harvests the bushes will pay for
themselves.<br />
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I'm also considering grapes and will have to decide soon. I only have most of one usable acre, so I have to be strategic about where I place things. <br />
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Always learning something around here. New things happening and some of the old things changing. But that's how life is.<br />
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Mr. Home-Sweet and I went and picked up three bee packages last Friday in Kingston,
NY. He lost two hives this winter, which isn't bad, it's been worse.
He's setting up to do some splits when the weather permits.<br />
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We have three Boer/Nubian mixes that I believe will soon be sold for meat. It's hard to do that, believe me, but that's the way of it...and there's nothing to be done for it. Two of them I worked hard on last year with mastitis...oh my. But they healed up nicely. I just cannot handle them. They're strong and hard for me to control. I'm just not as strong as I used to be! I have to be serious about making things financially friendly too. It's not worth feeding all these goats with no benefit. People need to eat and they can provide it for them.<br />
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I will be moving plants to the front of the house too, to make a sitting/resting garden. The area they are in now will be used to grow food. It is my aim to grow most, if not all of our food this year. I do not know if I can accomplish it, honestly, it seems monumental, but I am going to try and hopefully I'll get better each year.<br />
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I've been studying dehydration and this seems like the best method for many things. I've been watching many videos, reading tons of different gardening ideas and off-grid and self-reliant information. So much out there.<br />
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I'll share this video, this couple knows how to utilize their 1/12th acre!<br />
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What plans do you have to improve or work your Home-Sweet this year? </div>
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Praise the Lord for the gift of life and the ability to tend what He's blessed us with. We are truly grateful!</div>
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We must remember to always be grateful for all of God's gifts in our lives...we are so truly blessed. Living as good stewards in every area of our lives is also important. Ask Father God for wisdom and He will give it! </div>
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Blessings!</div>
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-53958308541003468782014-04-04T23:56:00.002-04:002014-04-06T00:04:36.454-04:00Sick Goat Kids Take TimeI'm typing this while sipping Bigelow Lemon and Ginger Tea with Probiotics. I give it a 10 on the YUM scale! <br />
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I'm still nursing a sick kid. She is showing signs of improvement though. Praise the Lord. Not the human kid, the goat kid!<br />
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Here is a photo of her a bit ago sleeping on Lydia's lap. After this stint in the house, she's not going to go easily back to barn life!<br />
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She's the runt of the triplets. She's grown good and strong, but now is having a bout with worms. Yuck for her. Lydia gave her an injection and we've been feeding her electrolytes. She started taking the bottle again...full milk...we stopped weaning until she's better. She's munching green pine needles. That's all she'll eat.<br />
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She's wagging her happy tail again...that's a good sign. Hopefully she's on the mend. Time will tell. <br />
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This is what has been taking my time the past couple of days. Mimi, this little doe kid running around the dining room again! Peeps in Jordan's old bedroom. Things to be done inside and out! Today it rained though...so not too much outside!<br />
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What is keeping you busy around your Home-Sweet? Take time to pray and talk to the Lord even though you're busy...He's NEVER too busy for you! Hallelujah! Amen!!<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-63896312427607914372014-04-03T23:55:00.002-04:002014-04-03T23:58:20.180-04:00And All My Plans Went POOF...Well, I had planned to come on here today and share my "Creative Corner", my "Command Central", my "Base of Operations"...I was going to hang my shelf and crochet and show my plastic canvas Cath Kidston inspired hangy-thing...I was going to decorate and photograph and share colors and handiwork and inspirations...stuff I'm doing in the Home-Sweet...<br />
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and then...<br />
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...sick goats, meetings with people, trying to study veterinarian medicine, company, a trip to Tractor Supply for medicine, random purchases of 18 chicks, a goat living in my dining room again and finally at 10:55 pm I am finally sitting down with my cup of tea to relax a bit before bed.<br />
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My days don't always work out the way I hope, and some of my days are full of busy-ness I did not plan . Still, throughout the day I ask the Lord what exactly I should learn from each task. I try to be ever mindful that it's not about here. That God is trying to work in me the nature of His Son, Jesus Christ. And so I surrender. I'm not saying it's always easy to lay down what<i> I</i> want, but I surrender.<br />
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I did learn today that God gives wisdom. I have seen it many times over the years. James 1:5 tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God who gives it to us liberally, and without reproach. It's about acknowledging our lack. There are many times I don't know what I'm doing (more times than not)! I humbly ask my Heavenly Father for wisdom and He always leads me to the answer. I am never disappointed when my hope is in the Lord! This gives me much confidence for life's issues as they come and it teaches me not to be afraid when things get hard, God's answers are always the right ones.<br />
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And so, I have spent the day learning to put my trust in the Lord once again. To lay down my life and my will and let His take precedence. Others Lord others, let this my motto be...<br />
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So, I will sit here and type and hold a little doe while she tries to feel better and pray for wisdom...and hopefully become more like Jesus!<br />
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I pray your plans become His and you gain wisdom from above, from God Almighty, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-54832121700048655772014-04-02T23:26:00.000-04:002014-04-02T23:26:23.829-04:00Announcing - Spring!!!Yes, that's right...it's finally decent enough out to bring on a good ole' fashioned Spring Cleaning Binge! Finally, windows can be thrown open and that fresh, sweet spring air can come in and purify this stuffy place! It definitely smells like spring outside now. Signs of spring are all about!<br />
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Peepers Peeping! Daffodils peeking their little heads out of the ground. And for me, the first and long awaited 'Spring Is Here' announcement...CROCUSES! <br />
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Just by chance, Lydia found this confirmation of the season yesterday:<br />
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Today there were even more yellow crocuses glowing here and there! Now we wait for the white and purple ones.<br />
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I took a stroll around to see what other signs of green I could find and saw daffodils stretching green arms out of brown leafy beds toward the sun. Now it's time to rake away winter deadness to make way for life!<br />
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(Truth be told there will be no shortage of raking going on around here! Wow!)<br />
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I was reminded of the Wordsworth poem entitled "Daffodils" but I will wait to share it when these are truly golden.<br />
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I've been working on projects and handiwork to spruce up my 'Creative Corner of the World' or my 'Inspiration Spot' or whatever I end up calling it, here in the living room.<br />
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I really like all colors and it is so hard for me to choose, but I would have to say the predominant colors in every room are aqua, red and white. Other colors go too, but these are the ones that stick out the most and are the deciding factor on what Home-Sweet Decor/Things help decorate the rooms. So, I have been having fun with these colors and others that compliment them in deciding which favorite things will take up space in this corner of my living room. It is my own corner and it's where I pray and read my Bible and plan my day and write and work and dream.<br />
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Tomorrow I will hang a little shelf I've painted for the corner. It's been in my basement for eons. I do not even know where I got it anymore, but I cannot wait to start putting some things up that I enjoy and that will inspire me. But that's for tomorrow.<br />
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I pray you are enjoying Home-Sweet Spring in your neck of the woods and that you remember to give thanks to the Father for teaching us patience and endurance through the long winter. The season of rest is over once more and the season of work begins! Praise Him for the gift of renewal in spring and the promise He gave Noah in Genesis 8:22 - "As long as earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease." He is faithful!<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4179542063563696174.post-83757564887693602502014-04-01T23:56:00.001-04:002014-04-01T23:56:21.839-04:00Glory to God In Spring's Arrival!It is so good to be able to go outside without three layers on! Without ear covers and hoods and three pairs of socks! It seems to make chores go faster.<br />
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What you see are happy pepper plants planted on Mr. Home-Sweet's birthday, March 16th. They happily peeked their heads out and a whole giant tray of every kind of peppers reminded me of last year's plentiful harvest. It's hard to believe we've come around again to planting time already.<br />
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The giant tray was coming along fine. I was like a new Mama, tending my little seedling babies. I'm sure those of you who start your own seedlings know what I'm talking about. Sadly, as I was taking the tray to the table to be watered...it slipped from my hands and crashed to the floor. This was a very unfortunate event I dare say! I saved what I could, and that is what you see here. I will still have quite a few early peppers...but alas...the little name markers came out and I have no clue what is what. So, I will have a surprise coming when I finally get fruit. I don't know how far apart to plant them, nor do I know what height they will be. This will make arranging them in good order a bit difficult...I may look into putting them in containers so I can place them where they need to be when the time comes. At this point I am not sure if peppers even like to be in containers. Studying needs to be done!<br />
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I did plant more last night, which is behind schedule, but my sister-in-law, the horticulture expert tells me this will just make them produce late in the season. So, they will be late. She proceeded to tell me she was also behind and had nothing in...this put me a bit at ease. I also planted tomato plants last night. I thought it would sound better to say they were planted in March as opposed to April...even if it's just one day!<br />
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Now I just wait for true leaves to peek out so I can put them in a paper pot, then it's just happy growing until it's warm enough to go into their raised bed home.<br />
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I have them inside a greenhouse...which is in...you guessed it...my dining room! I tell you, my dining room gets a variety of uses...that's for sure! One never can tell what it will be used for next!<br />
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Here are the goat babies...now living outside for quite a while...we've since removed their little jackets and they love to romp and play and lay in the sunshine. This photo was taken on a cloudy day, in the evening, so it's a bit gray, but I wanted to share the cuteness and how big they are now!<br />
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God bless the Home-Sweet fruit of your hands, no matter what kind of butterfingers you have! Our Heavenly Father is Good and Solid anyway! He is the only Solid Rock in this topsy-turvy world! And I am SO THANKFUL! Amen<br />
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<br />Glendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537983997029391326noreply@blogger.com0