A Winter Morning in Vermont

We have lots of pretty snow here in Vermont. It is so peaceful and pleasant. Our wood stove is roaring and keeping our home cozy. I love to get up early in the morning and putter around the house. I love to look out the window, while it is still dark and just take my time welcoming a new day.

I usually sit in my favorite chair, near the hearth, and read, while sipping on hot chocolate. Somehow, I become cheerful and happy and patient! This makes it easy to face the day and all it's trials.

Mr. White woke up early and we sat at the table and talked about dreams. We love to discuss our old house and the kinds of projects we'd like to do. But I look at the ripped linoleum in our kitchen and see the walls that need painting and I am content. Why change anything? I love this humble place!

Soon the children will be awake. I am looking around me and I see clean and tidy! I love to wake up to a neat home! There is nothing for me to do, but read and wait for the children to come smiling into the room!

I hope you have a lovely day of happiness!

Blessings
Mrs. White

Are you feeling sad? - Acting Happy to Cheer Up!

A Little Visit - Homeschooling Today at the White House

Just for Fun -  A Housewife's Day at Home

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Review - Apron and Silverware

Flirty Apron

Have you seen those Flirty Aprons? They are so pretty and fashionable! I wanted one for a long time. I was finally able to review one and am just delighted.

The fabric is strong and good quality. It is also fully lined, and has a generous back tie. This can be doubled up to tie in the front.

The apron is one-size-fits-all. It looks great,  and all my girls want their own!

The one I chose was "Chic Teal."  The price is $29.99

International Silver American Bead 53 piece set

I usually buy spoons and forks from a department store - whatever is least expensive.I have always wanted a stylish, large set of silverware.

This product contains Service for 8. It also comes with 8 steak knives and a serving set. It is perfect for our family!

I am delighted with this silverware. I have it all neatly stacked in a kitchen drawer and love to serve our meals with it.

The price is: $39.95


Both of these items were chosen from one of 200 CSN Stores. They have tons of merchandise. I have spent plenty of time browsing all the lovely things they offer. If you get a chance, visit CSN and see what you'd like to have.

*Disclosure - I was provided with these products through a merchandise gift certificate from CSN stores in order to write this review.*

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Do Not Allow Drama to Interfere with your Routine

In the movie, "Fiddler on the Roof," Tevye was constantly interrupted by people, events and problems. Yet, he still made it home in time for Sabbath. He still said his prayers when he was supposed to, and he still continued to do his daily work.

I vividly recall seeing him "shush" those around him while he stopped to pray. His wife was mercilessly bugging him. Nevertheless, he still prayed. I will never forget that.

In the Movie "Georgia Rule" starring Jane Fonda (I don't recommend this one unless you are surrounded by troubled teens), the grandmother kept a strict routine at home. I was proud of her strength, courage, and stand, despite a whirlwind tornado of a granddaughter.

In my own home, drama happens all the time. Either someone is in need, or a teenager is upset, or the phone is constantly ringing, or someone needs a ride. Whatever the case may be, it can cause me to have an anxiety attack if I do not stick to my routine. We cannot be walked all over, or drained of every speck of energy we have. It will make us irritable and sick.  It is essential that we still do our Bible Times, say our prayers and attend church. We need the Lord. I read a quote from somewhere by Martin Luther that goes perfectly with this: "I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer."

[There are certainly times of emergency - but that is far different than constant drama.]

I love the photo above, of the elderly lady walking along with, what may be, her granddaughter. They have genteel characters. They are enjoying a delightful walk on a lovely day. They are probably going home to prepare supper.  We need our routines.  Others may look at this and scoff or laugh, but as they mature and age, they begin to see the wisdom of an orderly, God-centered life.

We need set times for meals. We need bedtimes and times to rise. We need order. We need all this to keep sane in a drama-filled world.

Today, I have some difficult things I need to do. But I am going to find a way to attend church. I am going to find a way to keep it calm and peaceful. Somehow, I am going to keep to a routine, despite all the trouble it will take to accomplish. It is the only way I will find peace.

Blessings
Mrs. White

I Remember Mama - Lessons from a Norwegian family in 1910

The Hard days - Mother of Teenagers

To Use Coupons or not - that is the question - with lots of stories about Home Economics


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Vintage Homekeeping Advice

I have a collection of vintage lessons for homemakers, from a few sources. These are informative, encouraging and inspiring. Enjoy!

1. "Gentleness, not partial and temporary, but universal and regular, should pervade her conduct; for where such a spirit is habitually manifested, it not only delights her children, but makes her domestics attentive and respectful; her visitors are also pleased by it, and their happiness is increased." (a)

2. "Ladies could be spotted a block away, by the presence of gloves." (b)

3. "Early rising is one of the most essential qualities which enter into good Household Management, as it is not only the parent of health, but of innumerable other advantages. Indeed, when a mistress is an early riser, it is almost certain that her house will be orderly and well-managed." (a)

4. "Speaking one's mind is an extravagance, which has ruined many a person." (b)

5. "In conversation, trifling occurrences, such as small disappointments, petty annoyances, and other every-day incidents, should never be mentioned to your friends." (a)

6. "Bread-making can be cultivated to any extent as a fine art, and the various kinds of biscuits, tea-rusks, twists, and rolls, into which bread may be made, are much better worth a housekeeper's ambition than the getting-up of rich and expensive cake or confections." (c)

7. "Charity and benevolence are duties which a mistress owes to herself as well as to her fellow-creatures; and there is scarcely any income so small, but something may be spared from it, even if it be but the widow's mite." (a)


8. "The tea kettle is as much an English institution as aristocracy or the Prayer Book; and when one wants to know exactly how tea should be made, one has only to ask how a fine old English housekeeper makes it. The first article of her faith is that the water must not merely be hot, not merely have boiled a few moments since, but be actually boiling at the moment it touches the tea. . . Tea making belongs to the drawing room, and high-born ladies preside at 'the bubbling and loud-hissing urn,' and see that all due rites and solemnities are properly performed - that the cups are hot, and that the infused tea waits the exact time before the libations commence." (c)

9. "I know some houses in which sharp, angry tones resound from morning till night, and the influence is as contagious as measles and much more to be dreaded in a household. The children catch it and it lasts for life. An incurable disease. (b)

10. "The true economy of housekeeping is simply the art of gathering up all the fragments, so that nothing be lost.  I mean fragments of time, as well as materials. Nothing should be thrown away so long as it is possible to make any use of it, however trifling that use may be; and whatever be the size of a family, every member should be employed either in earning or saving money." (d)

(a) Mrs. Isabella Beeton, 1859
(b) "Keeping Hearth and Home in Old Massachusetts" compiled and edited by Carol Padgett
(c) Harriet Beecher Stowe, 1869
(d) The American Frugal Housewife, 1883

Blessings,
Mrs. White

The Wife's job at Home - Doing my part

For the large family - Ten Children and Housekeeping

Our Church Time- Family Worship - A Church in the Home

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Praying to Heal the Moral Decline of our Children

I've been thinking a lot about the writings of Elizabeth Prentiss. In most of her books, there is always this very dear saint who was close to God. This saint loved her Bible and God. Her love was a meek and gentle love. Her very presence made everyone feel safe and secure - that this was a place where God was honored.

I am trying to find a way to cope with society around me. The culture is overpowering. I have older children who enjoy current entertainment - movies, music, etc. Much of it is "harmless" recreation, but it does not leave one much hunger for holiness. How does a mother balance this out in her home? How does she allow them to have joy in their youth, but still help them with a desire for religious duties. How can she become an old-time saint like in the Prentiss stories?

There is one powerful way - she can pray.

Mother, do you pray?

I have to honestly admit that I don't pray enough. I pray daily for each child. But I don't pray enough. I need to earnestly beg and plead with God to heal the moral decline of our children in this generation.

If I am too caught up in the distractions of this world, sometimes, I am full of apathy. I don't care. Isn't that terrible?

Today, I will write in my prayer journal a little reminder to pray for healing. I will pray for a revival in my children. I will pray and pray and pray. I will not stop until I see it happen.  This is a quiet, behind-the-scenes aspect of Motherhood that is powerful!

Oh, how easily I have given up and accepted the way things are! Yes, I have wonderful children. Don't we all? But this country needs a revival. And it can start in each and every one of our homes.

Mother do you pray?

Blessings
Mrs. White

A List of Some Inspiring Mothers from History

Tips on Raising Godly Children in - Mama, Dry Your Tears

Review of Identity Theft by Doug Phillips of Vision Forum - a sermon about the culture of our homes


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Fit Mommy (Week 47)

The following is my check-in for Fit Mommy Friday. It is hosted by Denise. This is a way for many of us to encourage one another, to share our progress and to meet our own fitness goals. When you visit our blogs and read about our week, would you take a minute to share an encouraging comment?

                                  ~ This is for week 5 of the 10 week challenge. ~ 

Here's My Week

Monday,

Morning- 1 hour of heavy cleaning while wearing ankle weights.

Evening - Heavy cleaning in heels (yes, that is considered a workout).

Tuesday,

Morning - stretches. (I could have worked-out, but got up too late.)  Then was gone all day and didn't get home until 8 pm.

Evening - some lame sit-ups.

Wednesday,

Morning - 35 minute work out. This was target toning with light weights

Thursday,

Thanksgiving.... Walked all over the house all day, and up and down 3 flights of stairs. (I know that is not exercise, but it's better than nothing!) I also ate some Godiva chocolate and had a piece of chocolate-peanut-butter-cup pie. (shudder)

Evening - Some lame sit-ups.

Friday,

Morning - 30 minute work out. This was target toning with light weights.

Fitness Goal: To have strength and endurance. I do not have any weight to lose, but need to keep my energy levels high.

How was your week?

Blessings
Mrs. White

My complete Fit Mommy history.

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A Lovely Thanksgiving Morning

I baked 2 apple pies last night. Today, I will bake 2 pumpkin pies. Our dinner is scheduled for 1 pm. All the children are home. It is so nice to have the family all together again.

Rachel arrived home late last night. She is my oldest (22). We had a nice visit and talked until very late at night. She brought a delicious chocolate, peanut-butter-cup pie! She always finds the most creative things to bring to dinner!

I found a great resource. It is "An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving" by Louisa May Alcott. The entire story can be printed out. I will read it this morning. But first, I will share the very first paragraph with you here:

"SIXTY YEARS AGO, up among the New Hampshire hills, lived Farmer Bassett, with a houseful of sturdy sons and daughters growing up about him. They were poor in money, but rich in land and love, for the wide acres of wood, corn, and pasture land fed, warmed, and clothed the flock, while mutual patience, affection, and courage made the old farmhouse a very happy home."

Doesn't that make you want to read the entire story? I can't wait. I will read it while the children are still asleep.  I think I will search for some mazes and coloring pages. They are always fun no matter how old the children are.

Are you up early this morning, cooking the turkey? It is tiring to be up so early, but nice and quiet. I will make some hot chocolate and sit and read. Then I will do a little cleaning.  Lately, I've been so annoyed with all the "Black Friday" announcements and sales. I don't want to think about shopping or spending money. I want to enjoy an Old Fashioned Thanksgiving which centers around family, prayers, and thanks to God.  

Thanksgiving Eve - Mrs. White and Two of Her Children

I hope you have a wonderful thanksgiving!

Blessings,
Mrs. White

Inspiring Documentary - The 1940's House

Very difficult days - I Can't Even Walk

Do You have a Wayward Child - Listen to this precious song - Hello Mama - 


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Home and Family

Yesterday, I went on a long journey. I left at 10:30 in the morning and got home after 8 pm. I took Amy (15) and John (13) along for the drive. [Matthew (17) had to work.] We went all the way into the city to pick up Nicole (21) from College.

Vermont country roads are scenic and lovely. Sometimes, when one is in a rush, it is hard to notice the pretty landscape. I tried to make the most of the trip and enjoy it as much as possible. Long drives are very difficult!

I packed snack-bags for the children. These included crackers, peanut butter, fruit-roll ups (a review item from General Mills), frosted animal crackers and plain donuts! We each bought a drink on our way out and were ready to go!

Once we arrived at the school, I parked in front of Nicole's residence hall to wait for her.  I thought she had a class and we could see her walk by, so we waited in the car.

There were students with luggage heading out of the buildings, meeting family for the drive home. It is Thanksgiving break! I am sure they will be so excited to get home for awhile!

As I was sitting there, thinking about home, I heard an excited voice call out, "Oh my ----!! It's Colie's Mom!!'  I quickly turned and saw a girl on the front porch with her Mother. I waved. She motioned for me to come with her. The children and I got out of the car. I heard her say, "Colie has been talking about you all day. She keeps saying, 'I can't wait to see my Mom!'  Come on and we'll surprise her!"

I didn't know she was already upstairs in the building! It turned out this girl was Nicole's roommate. She must have recognized me from Nicole's pictures on her dorm wall.

We went upstairs and Nicole came around the corner. She was thrilled to see me and I gave her a hug and said, "My baby!!"

We had a delightful drive home. There was no radio reception for some odd reason. So the girls sang all kinds of songs, most of the way home. When I got tired of hearing their modern music, Nicole started singing some Frank Sinatra for me. I was grateful.

Tonight, My other baby will be home. Rachel is my oldest at 22. She is bringing her Fiance. We will have a lovely visit!

I still have a lot of joyful cleaning to do. It is joyful because I LOVE home. I love to make this an inviting place. I will set the table for a simple supper tonight. We will play some cards and chat and laugh. We will drink iced tea and eat cookies. Then we will watch a family movie and get ready for a precious Thanksgiving at home with the whole family!

blessings
Mrs. White

My Favorite Place - Staying Home at the Estate

I Love to do this - Rising While it is Yet Night

Careful Stocking and Planning of Food - Kitchen Inventory - The Pantry


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Black Friday Sale and Freebies at The Old Schoolhouse Store

I have been blessed to be part of the Old Schoolhouse Magazine Crew Team. We are a group of reviewers who get to try-out homeschool products with our families, and then share our thoughts and ideas with all of you.  This is my second year working with this amazing group of homeschoolers and I love it!

TOS has a special Black Friday sale going on.

A Message from The Old Schoolhouse:

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"The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine is extending an extraordinary subscription offer to homeschool families. U.S. and Canadian residents can receive a one-year print subscription and a FREE Homeschooling with Heart tote bag, FREE Schoolhouse Planner of your choice, and FREE E-Book: Cranberry Christmas for just $19.95. One-year subscriptions start with the winter issue. It makes a perfect gift for yourself and a friend. There are a limited number of tote bags available from November 24 through midnight on November 29-once they're gone, they're gone! Hurry and grab this tremendous value today! It's over $80 in free gifts--one of them the gorgeous Cranberries & Cream tote bag."
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*There are also tons of items on sale. The Old Schoolhouse Store is a fun place to shop.*

Looking for Freebies? TOS set up a thank you page just for you! Some of the items include:

- Are Public Schools an Option for Christian Kids?

- 2010 Holiday Digital Supplement

- Free online classes

- Preschool

- Homeschool 101

The Old Schoolhouse is an excellent company which provides plenty of encouragement and resources for homeschooling families.

Enjoy!

Blessings
Mrs. White

Preparing for Thanksgiving in Hard Times

We had another financial crisis hit us this month. It seems to always happen at this time of year. But I have faith that the Lord will provide for us. We lost another few hundred dollars of income. When the news came, I was stunned. I prayed and left it with God and then moved on. We will be okay.

Over the last few months, I have been following our supermarket's thanksgiving plan. If I spent $500 over the course of a month, I would get a $20 coupon to buy a turkey and other food. I didn't think I would be able to do it, but somehow I got up to $495. Then one night, Matthew (17) needed to buy himself something. I handed him my store card and waited in the car. When he came back, I realized what I'd done. "Matt, did the store give you a coupon for $20?" He shook his head no. He wasn't sure. I told him, " When we get home, will you give me your receipt?" Sure, he'd do that.

But we both forgot! The next morning, he searched but realized he had thrown it in the trash. It was ruined. I ended up calling the supermarket and explaining the problem. I am grateful that they were able to give me a special coupon and all was going to be okay. But why all the trouble to get food? It is hard to seek and find ways to pay bills and feed the family. It takes so much extra work!

I've noticed that food prices have dropped drastically since last year. This is wonderful! I am going to stock up on canned goods this week, while they are still on sale. This will help us get through the rest of the month. I've been buying apple pies for us to eat now, because they are hearty and filling and only $1.99 at our local store's bakery.  It has been a special treat.

I plan to bake some cookies for Thanksgiving. I will also bake some pies. Do you remember the thanksgiving story? They spent most of that first year starving! That first thanksgiving was a feast and a time of joyful gathering together to THANK God for his blessings and provisions. This is what we will do this week.

There will be plenty of leftovers so we will have food for a few days. It will be a precious time. Food is so important. When we have decent things to eat, and event treats, we feel less desperate - less depressed. I would rather spend money on food and warmth than anything else.

What are some of the ways you come up with food and money for thanksgiving dinner? I'd love to hear your ideas.

Blessings
Mrs. White

Despite difficulties, it is the Mother's Touch, that makes home a precious place

God always provides in Living on a Prayer

Through Cancer and financial trials - My Living on Faith Marriage Testimony



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Chalkboard Math for Teenagers

I have three chalkboards in my livingroom. I use them for notes, recipes, reminders, prayers, phone numbers and school work.

My favorite thing is chalkboard math. Out of my five children, I only have 2 students left. They are my youngest - Amy (15) and John (13).  Throughout the day, I put math problems on the boards.

The largest board is behind our living room door. This one is used by John.

The smaller board is used by Amy. It is near the Phone. (Could that be a coincidence?)

I like to write long division, long multiplication, addition and division problems for them to do. It keeps their minds sharp, active and busy. These are not easy problems, like 5 + 5, but are fairly simple for them to do. This keeps them happy and does not frustrate them.  An example would be:

76 divided by 98745

or

68973 - 4508

These are problems that will take them a little time to solve, but not overwhelm them. Amy actually loves the chalkboard math. I have to keep erasing her work and giving her new problems during the day. I never have to tell her about them. She just notices them on her chalkboard. Sometimes, If John is too slow getting to his work, she will run over to his board and do his math too!

I remember one night, while the children were doing their chores, I was checking the boards. I had a calculator to check Amy's math. She was standing nearby, smiling and proud. (She is quite the entertainer!) Then I went to John's, and said, "Hey, how come you didn't do your math?" I went in the kitchen to see what he was up to. Then Amy came running over to me, grinning and said, "But Mom, he DID do his math. Come see!"  When I got over there, I realized she had done his math for him.

The other day, John was working on some long multiplication. He had his coat on. We were on our way out the door when I reminded him to do his math first. He had a question. Before I could answer him, Amy had raced over to do the same problem, right beside him.

Our Large chalkboard in the Living Room

Blessings,
Mrs. White

A printout for you- A Beautiful Clean House in just 30 days

I want to have An Old Fashioned Day

To Encourage you - How a Godly Mother May Guide an Imperfect Family


Homeschooling - Books - Oxford - Reading Lists - and Swagbucks

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Some Winners

Today is the day to choose winners of my giveaways.

For the Hasbro Toys gift pack, the winner is - Myrna Lee


For the Large Package of General Mills food, the winner is - Kristy

The winners have already been contacted and will received their prizes soon. Thank you so much for entering!

blessings
Mrs. White

An Elegant Home Despite Poverty

Sometimes, my house seems beat-up and old. Well, it is old! It was built in 1850 for a lawyer who had a wife and 10 children. When we first bought this house, I went to the memorial museum of our small town and searched the history. I also bought some old books which were written by residents many years ago. I saw old pictures and enjoyed reading their history.

Our House in the 1800's

All around me I see wealth and beauty in classy, new homes. I see elegance and distinction. Then I look at my own estate and see the house needs a paint job and the porch steps are falling apart. I am reminded of my life as the old country wife who lives in poverty - like in the movie "The Dollmaker" starring Jane Fonda. Didn't that one just make you cry? Or what about the mother of Loretta Lynn in Coal Miner's Daughter? Those are the women I relate to - The hardworking mothers of humble means.

Our House in 2010

I was just looking at some photographs of my house. I see holes in my kitchen linoleum. But the floors are shiny and clean in the sunlight.  I see an old country kitchen, but it is pretty and tidy. I see walls in desperate need of a paint job - but there are children smiling and happy, playing cards or laughing, in the photographs.

Amy Getting Ready to Teach Preschoolers at Vacation Bible School on Safari Night

Some of the children playing cards together in the Living Room

I go about my day in an apron and dress. I clean and tidy and make this place a home. To me, it is a home of elegance. It is a precious place I love, and take pride in.  Even though my furniture is old and second-hand, it clearly speaks of an old fashioned, creative homemaker.


Blessings
Mrs. White

-Inspiring essay, relating to poverty, by Washington Irving - The Wife -

 Hard Times - No Income and the Basics of Life

I am Just a Regular Mom

Remembering a  Special Dinner


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KB Teachers

TOS Crew Review

Product - KB Teachers - online resource

Price - $29 per year (after a free 10 day trial) or $49 for two years.

What is KB Teachers? - "Your Source for Dynamic Worksheets and Printable Pages."

I waited until the last minute to check this out. I wish I had started on this as soon as I received my membership! I was thrilled to find worksheets on all kinds of topics. I quickly went through math, writing, and grammar and printed out several pages for my teens to work on. I couldn't wait to hand these pages out!

Here's what I did the first day:

I gave Amy (15) and John (13) A "Fact or Opinion" sheet. This contains a list of questions like, "Dogs are the best pets to own." The children had to decide if this was a "Fact" or "Opinion." They loved this and quickly went through the worksheet.

For Fun, I also gave them the "most difficult" Thanksgiving maze. KB offers levels of difficulties for mazes, depending on the grade level of your student. Since I have teens, I chose the hardest one to keep them challenged.

I have to explain something here. Amy is a typical teenager. She does not want to be told what to do, when to do it, or how to do it. She wants to schedule her own time and have some control. So I put her worksheets on the table, pointed to them and then let her decide when to do them.  Sometime later in the day, she had the fact or opinion paper finished.  That night, while she was talking on the phone, I saw her doing the maze!

John, on the other hand, is more than happy to sit at the table and do the papers right away!

On the second day:

I gave the children a larger stack of papers. This included:

1. To, Two, or Too (Do you know the difference between these three?)

2. Homonyms: An Alphabetical Series - (page one)

3. What time is it? Clocks (for fun!)

4. Contractions - a coloring paper which required the student to match up words like: Could not with Couldn't.

I know, I know. These sound easy for teenagers. But the fact is, they keep their minds sharp and are great for review. It is also very nice for them to have paperwork to do that does not overwhelm them or seem too difficult.

[* In case you were thinking -  Are there harder worksheets at KB? Yes!  Not to worry. You'll find plenty of worksheets that are both easy and difficult, depending on which level or subject you choose.]

John took a little longer on these papers. But he enjoyed them. As for Amy, she rolled out of bed late in the morning (again)! I had to run out for an errand. I quickly showed her the papers and went out the door. She stayed home with Dad.  To my complete surprise, when I got home, I noticed all her papers were still on the table, but they were all finished!! She really enjoys having these worksheets to do.

- I  have to share something. All these "fun" school papers have gotten her into an academic "mood." On the second night, she stayed up late working on a college math book. So, while we were all asleep, she was studying math! The best part? No one told her to do that.

I have several more stacks of printed worksheets and will hand a few out each day. I love these. My only concern is that KB will run out of pages for us to do! (I doubt that will happen.)


To see more reviews of this product, visit the TOS Crew Blog.

To find out more about my homeschool reviews, please visit "Introduction to our Homeschool Parlor"

*I received a membership from KB Teachers, for review purposes through The Old Schoolhouse Magazine Crew*

Fit Mommy (Week 46)

The following is my check-in for Fit Mommy Friday. It is hosted by Denise. This is a way for many of us to encourage one another, to share our progress and to meet our own fitness goals. When you visit our blogs and read about our week, would you take a minute to share an encouraging comment?

                                  ~ This is for week 4 of the 10 week challenge. ~ 

Here's My Week


Monday  -
Rested. I should have exercised but didn't.

Tuesday and Wednesday -
Lazy!  I thought about exercising all the time, but didn't until late at night. Then I did some quick, lame exercises. However, I did some brisk walking on both days. Still not happy with it though.

Thursday -
Evening - 10 minute workout, target toning.

Friday -
Morning - 30 minute workout. (Isn't it suspicious how I managed to do a 30 minute work out only on the check-in day? -smiles)

Fitness Goal: To have strength and endurance. I do not have any weight to lose, but need to keep my energy levels high. I no longer have a problem with junk food or soda (it took 37 weeks for this to happen). But I am having a hard time being consistent with daily exercising. I really need to work harder on this.

Note - Did you see Denise's newest present which was added to the Fit Mommy challenge prize pack? The winner is going to be thrilled!  (Since I am co-founder of this, it's too bad I am not eligible to win! - smiles)

How was your week?

Blessings
Mrs. White

My complete Fit Mommy history.

Fit Mommy Elegance

To Cheer you - 10 Thoughts on Being a Housewife - Will Make a Feminist Laugh


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A Scentsy Warmer and Earning Opportunity

"Capri" - Italian

     

I love to have pleasant things around the house. I want my home to be inviting and nicely decorated. I was given the opportunity to review a Scentsy Warmer.  I was told to pick out any full size warmer I wanted.

It was a very difficult decision. There are so many to choose from! At first, I could not decide between the "Capri" or the "Menorah."

I finally decided on the "Menorah." I love the deep blue color and the pretty candles decorating the outside of the warmer. I knew it would look just right in my living room.

Next, I needed to choose a Scensty bar. I love cinnamon. It reminds me of warm apple pies baking in the oven. I was delighted to find Cinnamon Bear. This has a crimson color and contains plenty of pieces for long lasting use.

Menorah

All you need to do, is plug in the warmer and then place a piece of the bar in the warming dish. There is a small light bulb which sheds illumination through the decorative holes. The gentle scent of the bar brings a delightful ambiance to the home.

If you browse the Scentsy site, you will find  a variety of sizes and prices to choose from. A full size warmer costs $30. The bars are $5 each. They will make fabulous gifts. I was very impressed with my Menorah warmer!

Now for the earning Opportunity: I have been told that Scentsy is looking for people to sign up to sell their products. If you are looking for a way to earn some money, consider signing up as an independent consultant.  If you are interested in being a representative, simply "join" at the Scentsy Site. If you would like to list my name as the referal, you are certainly welcome to do so. (I have been told that I will receive free products as your referal.)  


*Disclosure - This is a Mama Buzz Review.  I was provided with these items and information for review purposes from Kimberlee Chaney, an Independent Consultant of Scentsy.*



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When Mother has a Nervous Breakdown

Have you ever seen a small child have a meltdown in public? Perhaps it was a little girl who was just exhausted. She may have been out on errands with her family for most of the morning and was hungry and tired. She was overwhelmed and overloaded. This happens all the time with young children. They are not mature enough to know when to slow down or get through the difficult times.

This can happen to mothers too. It is rare, but it happens. Over the past 2 decades of having my own family, I have had a few breakdowns myself.  It might only be once every 5 years, or a few times a year. No matter when it happens, it is always hard. My most recent nervous breakdown was Monday night. . .

After struggling with the memory of a difficult weekend, I picked up Matthew (17) from work. He has his permit, so he drove us back home. He had driven a bit too fast for me, and by the time we arrived back home, I went straight to my room in tears. This was at 7:30 at night. I did not come back out of my room until after 11.  Every so often, a teenager would come and check on me, "Are you okay Mom?"  or "Is there anything you need?" I was just resting in a quiet room. I was recovering slowly.  The next morning, I made the mistake of indulging in the memory of my sorrows. While everyone else was sleeping, I did my normal morning routine of cleaning and reading. But I did it with tears in my eyes. Soon I thought I was okay. I had to think of pleasant thoughts and just rest. Yet, when afternoon came, my nervous condition turned into a physical breakdown. I had anxiety attacks, my heart was racing and the mere idea of doing anything made me exhausted. Recovering was not going to be easy!

For the next couple of days, I spent most of my time resting. Then I remembered something. The reason I had a breakdown was because I stopped taking breaks! I had been going non-stop for everyone else. Now, I don't mean to sound selfish, but Mother needs quiet time too. There is no way we can take on the world, day after day, hour after hour without a collapse.

When my children were little, I loved nap time! There are many mothers who use this time to do extra housework and such, but I have never had the strength for that. I always took that time to sleep for a bit, or just lay down. I needed that extra rest so I was able to handle the remainder of the day.

Now that I have teenagers, it is easy to just stay busy and active with them all the time. This is also harder as a homeschooling mother. I have the weight of the world on my shoulders, at times. I need to make sure they are educated, fed, clothed, taught the Bible and that they develop a proper character. It is very difficult if I don't get a break. It is also very easy to get caught up in every little thing they do wrong. Did they wash the dishes good enough? Did they talk back? Did they do all their schoolwork? Are they involved with the wrong crowd? It could drive any mother crazy after awhile!

Here is what I have started to do:

1. I am required to wear eyeglasses while driving or reading. I have gotten into a habit of wearing them most of the time because I like to see everything clearly. This is a mistake. (smiles) I am now wearing them only when necessary. If I cannot see every little thing around the house, I am more calm. I do not need to see every neglected crumb on the counter. I do not need to see the smirk on my daughter's face. It will only stress me out! (smiles)

2. I will clean early in the morning for as long as I am able (which I love to do) and then let the rest go. I must take a break!

3. After doing chores, cooking and schoolwork all morning, I will take an extended lunch break to just have quiet and relax. The children love this too, because they will go outside, or play on their own. The house becomes very quiet and it is pleasant.

Yesterday, I was reading a bit from "More Love to Thee - The Life and Letters of Elizabeth Prentiss" - 1800's. I came across an enlightening passage. Elizabeth was describing the character of her brother-in-law (A Pastor). This is what she said:

"His quiet Christian excellence made us all long to grow better. It is always the case when he comes, though he rather lives than talks his religion. I never saw, as far as piety is concerned, a more perfect specimen of a man in his every-day life."

This is the kind of person we all strive to be.  But it takes self-discipline, which for me, is in short supply! It takes a lot of self-control to have daily Bible studies, to rest, to get to bed at a certain hour, to control our own natures. My family is full of dramatic artists. You can just imagine the outbursts of creativity this can cause!  But this must all be managed to prevent a high-strung spirit from having a nervous breakdown.

I need a calm environment and structure. I need a routine. I need my morning quiet and my afternoon rest. I am so much more thankful for everything when I can indulge in peaceful moments.  These are essential for all mothers. We all need to rest and take breaks. We cannot face our families and life going full speed at all times. It is dangerous.

There is a book by (Puritan) Thomas Watson,  called "Heaven taken by Storm." I was always intrigued by this. The main description of this is that the world around us is tempting, distracting and anathema to God's ways. It is like we are in a war, at all times, to remain faithful and true to our Lord. Can you just imagine living a godly life and then storming the gates of heaven with the greatest relief of a small child, who just got home and shed tears of joy and relief!

Blessings
Mrs. White

A Precious Time - Morning Devotions for the Family

This is so important - No Matter what it Cost Me

Remembering - The House Dress


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Vision Forum - The Baby Conference - Giveaway

Product - The Baby Conference - MP3 - 2 disk set.

Publisher - Vision Forum

Price - $60


In July of 2010, Vision Forum presented a historic conference in San Antonio Texas. It was on the "Triumph of Life over the Culture of Death."

I received a set of this conference on Audio CDs and have been listening to them over the past several weeks. I am grateful to have this! There is so much wisdom, truth, and practical instruction in these messages. You will be comforted, supported and encouraged!

Some of the speakers include Jim Bob & Michelle Duggar, Matt & Jennie Chancey, Doug & Beall Phillips, and Geoff  & Victoria Botkin. I am going to share the list of messages with you, and then tell you how to enter for a chance to win this amazing resource!

In this collection of more than 9 hours of messages, you'll find the following:

1. Opening Session by Doug Phillips

2. The Long War Against Babies by Doug Phillips

3. The Joy of the Fruitful Womb: Real Families discuss the rewards of raising a large family for the glory of God. - Panel Discussion.

4. Suffer the Children to Come: How to love those children who are rejected by the culture of death by Kevin Swanson and R.C. Sproul Jr.

5. How to End Abortion in America: A look at the spiritual, practical, and constitutional realities by Jim Zes, Flip Benham, Dan Becker and Bob Renaud.

6. How the logical church builds a thriving culture of life by Scott Brown.

7. Surviving the first 50 years of the Pill by Geoff Botkin.

8. Naming Babies by Doug Phillips.

9. Symposium on Manhood and Babies by Doug Phillips and Jim Bob Duggar.

10. Symposium on Top Legal Issues Facing Parents by Don Hart and Jessie Paine.

11. Fundamental Principles for Reforming Health by Dr. Ed Payne.

12. Ladies Tea with Michelle Duggar

13. What the Bible says about birth control by Doug Phillips.

14. Ladies Symposium: an Interview with Michelle Duggar - Beall Phillips and Michelle Duggar.

15. Children as Pets by Geoff Botkin.

16. Symposium on Biomedical Ethics for Birth (part one) by Doug Philips, Geoff Botkin, Dan Becker and Dr. Ed Payne.

17. Symposium on Biomedical Ethics for Birth (part two) by Doug Philips, Geoff Botkin, Dan Becker and Dr. Ed Payne.

18. Ladies' Symposium: Why we Must be Ladies Against Feminism (part one) by Jennie Chancey.

19. Ladies' Symposium: Why we Must be Ladies Against Feminism (part two) by Jennie Chancey.

20. The Indispensable Role of Grandparents in the Life of Children by Scott Brown.

21. The Demographics of Family Life by Doug Phillips.

22. Michelle Duggar: Mother of the Year by Doug Phillips and Michelle Duggar.

23. Haiti's Message of Hope to the Children of America by Doug Phillips.

24. Symposium on the Hope of Adoption: Lessons for the Future of Adoption from the Great 2010 Crisis in Haiti (part one) - Panel Discussion.

25. Symposium on the Hope of Adoption: Lessons for the Future of Adoption from the Great 2010 Crisis in Haiti (part two) - Panel Discussion.

26. Ladies' Symposium on Managing the Logistics of a Large Family (part one) by Beall Phillips, Jennie Chancey, Carmen Friedrich, Kim Coghlan, and Victoria Botkin.

27. Ladies' Symposium on Managing the Logistics of a Large Family (part two) by Beall Phillips, Jennie Chancey, Carmen Friedrich, Kim Coghlan, and Victoria Botkin.

28.  Symposium of the Future of Healthcare in America: A Christian response to Socialized Medicine and Medical Ethical Chaos (part one) by Wesley Strackbein, James Lansberry, Dr. Ed Payne, and Dr. Mo Gill.

29. Symposium of the Future of Healthcare in America: A Christian response to Socialized Medicine and Medical Ethical Chaos (part two) by Wesley Strackbein, James Lansberry, Dr. Ed Payne, and Dr. Mo Gill.

30. Child Training: A Biblical Template by Kevin Swanson.

31. The Hopeful Theology of Miscarriage by Doug Phillips.

32. The Myth of Overpopulation and the Coming Demographic Bomb by Kevin Swanson.

33. Symposium on Biblical Biomedical Ethics for the Infirm and Aging in the 21st Century: Brain Death, Organ Transplants, Euthenasia, and Care for the Elderly (part one) by Doug Phillips, Dr. Mo Gill, Dr. Ed Payne, and Dan Becker.

34. Symposium on Biblical Biomedical Ethics for the Infirm and Aging in the 21st Century: Brain Death, Organ Transplants, Euthenasia, and Care for the Elderly (part two) by Doug Phillips, Dr. Mo Gill, Dr. Ed Payne, and Dan Becker.

35. Ladies' Symposium on Preserving and Promoting the Highest Ideals of Christian Motherhood (part one) by Beall Phillips, Jennie Chancey, Carmen Friedrich, and Denise Sproul.

36. Ladies' Symposium on Preserving and Promoting the Highest Ideals of Christian Motherhood (part two) by Beall Phillips, Jennie Chancey, Carmen Friedrich, and Denise Sproul.

37. Closing Sessions: Testimonials and Summary Remarks (part one) by Doug Phillips.

38. Closing Sessions: Testimonials and Summary Remarks (part two) by Doug Phillips.

I have one set of this conference available for a giveaway.  If you would like a chance to win this outstanding resource, all you have to do is leave me a comment, telling me your favorite item from Vision Forum. 

If you win, you will receive the entire Baby Conference on a 2- disc set in MP3 format (as shown in the above photo.)


For Additional Entries -


1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Tweet about this. then come back here and share the link.

3. Follow me on Twitter. 

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.) Be sure to come back here and share the link.

5. Subscribe in an email to The Legacy of Home.  

6. Become a Public Follower through Google Friend Connect, or let me know if you are already a follower.

7. Choose to "Like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

8. Follow Vision Forum on Twitter.

9. Choose to "Like" Vision Forum on Facebook.

*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*

One random winner we be selected on Monday, December 6, 2010. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you.


*Disclosure - I received The Baby Conference, from Vision Forum,  for review purposes.*




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A Home Visit

I have a day full of lovely things to do, here at home. I will listen to a sermon on CD, while I clean and polish my kitchen. I will come up with an idea for supper and bake a cake.

Yesterday, I laid out all the children's school work on the table. I love to see piles and piles of books for them to work with! We also worked on our treasure boxes. John (13) sat, for quite some time, looking through the Bible to find just the right verse to write on an index card. I thought it would be fun to add a "vocabulary" card. So they have to look in the 1838 Webster's Dictionary and find one new word each day.

Amy (15) is reading about Normandy. She is also doing her workbooks and reading the McGuffey books. Each day I write some math problems on two of the little chalkboards in our living room. One for Amy and one for John. They can work the problems anytime they like, throughout the day.

I think I will have a cleaning contest today... I tell the children to clean their rooms spotless by a certain time. If it is neat and nicely decorated and arranged, they will win a little prize money. They both have a chance to win, so that no one feels left out. We will be home all day, so this is the perfect time for such a contest!

I also have some chore cards for them to work on. They are such fast workers! I love when we all work together to get the house in order because it makes our breaks (or rest) much sweeter.

I got up late this morning, so I better hurry and get the day started.  If you have a little time, I'd love to hear your plans for today!

Blessings
Mrs. White

Don't you love this? - The Richest Man in Walnut Grove

Are we making our children do too much? - A Cheerful and Willing Housekeeper

Teaching Hand-sewing - My Sense and Sensibility Edwardian Apron


Homeschooling - Books - Oxford - Reading Lists - and Swagbucks

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Remembering Suppertime When They Were Little

Over the course of more than 2 decades of marriage, I have loved every moment of being a wife and mother. We had times of riches and times of poverty. My husband worked hard to provide for us and I stayed at home. I love being a homemaker. It was something I wanted to do ever since I was a little girl. I would stare off, dreamily and think, "Someday I will be Mrs. Somebody. I can't wait to be a housewife and mother." Those were (and are) my only goals in life. I am still more than delighted with my life at home.

It is different, however, when the children are growing up. Some have already moved out and it gets lonely when there is no sound of little feet running around, and no giggling noises coming from the other room. I miss making an adventure out of everything we did. I miss the excitement in little faces who adored me. I miss suppertime with highchairs, and extra books to hold toddlers in place. I miss innocent smiles from little treasures.

In times like these, I dearly long for grandchildren! But while I am waiting, I will remember some of the days of long ago.

My favorite time is always suppertime because everyone is all together at the end of the day and enjoying a home-cooked meal.  I enjoyed inventing recipes in order to be creative and make the food budget stretch. One night, I made up a Rice Chex Meatloaf. I first made this 18 years ago. We had company over and I still remember the look on the face of our guest when I told him what was in the meatloaf. He loved it!  A few weeks ago, I made this again. My family still enjoys it. Here is what I did:

Put three pounds of ground burger in a mixing bowl.

Crumble up several handfuls of Rice Chex Cereal. Add to the burger.

Pour one fourth of a bottle of bbq sauce over this.

Mix well.

Divide into two loaf pans.  Pat down to fit the pan evenly.

Cover both pans with aluminum foil. Bake in pre-heated 350 degree oven for 1 to 1 and 1/2 hours or until fully cooked. Then pour a little more bbq sauce over the top and let sit in oven for a few more minutes to warm.

Serve with potatoes, stuffing, peas and biscuits and your family will feel like it is thanksgiving!

I cannot stress enough how important supper time is to the family. Since my children are older and busy with outside acitivites, it breaks my heart when we cannot always sit down together for a meal. So I do my best to make food for them to re-heat later. I want them to look forward to Mama's cooking and not rely on take-out. I want them to be excited about what Mama is cooking at home!

I love to set the table with pretty dishes, silverware and cups. I love to put out extra serving bowls so it looks like we have plenty to eat!  I remember having the children help me set the table. They were always so proud of themselves. Everyone always looked forward to the evening meal! It was always an event!

Whenever I can, I like to bake muffins, cake, brownies and cookies. I want everyone to know that there is always soemthing good in Mother's kitchen.

Now, if only I will be blessed with grandbabies!



Blessings
Mrs. White

The Hard Days - Chronically Ill Homeschooling Mothers

Real Life - Loving Homemaking with Children

The Rough Times - Trouble with Teenagers


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Hasbro Toys gift pack - giveaway

I have a great giveaway for you! The prize pack contains 2 Hasbro toys and a bonus gift pack. I will tell you all about them:

The Toys

1. Cuponk  $14.99
"Challenges players to come up with custom trick shots to show their skills and land the ball in the Cuponk cup." 

This game would be great for the guys. We have a game room with a pool table and lots of assorted chairs. This is where my boys hang out. This is a fun game for them. It comes with a battery operated "cup." Players draw cards which offer directions such as -3 tries to shoot the ball off the wall and then into the cup.-  It can be played anywhere in the house. I don't particularly like the sticker decorations on the outside of the cup, but these can be peeled off if you don't like them either!  There were also a couple of cards with illustrations that I didn't like. I just got rid of them. (If you want to see a photo of this item, just click on the Cuponk link above.)

2.  Girl Talk Game    $12.99
"Perfect for fun slumber parties and to keep those “lol moments” alive during the holiday season."

I received "Sparkle Spots" which comes in an adorable package. There are 20 sparkly bracelets and 42 cards. One person is chosen as the judge. The rest of the players take turns doing a challenge (card). The judge picks the winners based on "Best performance, Silliest performance or Most Creative performance." The winner gets a bracelet as a prize. The game is designed for ages 8 and up.

The Bonus Gift Pack

Designed to  help "make your holiday preparation and celebration healthy and happy for the whole family."

This bag contains all of the following -

Arm & Hammer SpinBrush My Way kids toothbrush, Purell, Emergen-C and the Scotch Adhesive Dot Roller and refill pack.

Would you like a chance to win this prize pack? It includes Cuponk, Girl Talk and the Bonus gift pack. All you have to do is leave me a comment telling me what you want most this holiday season.

For Additional Entries -


1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Tweet about this. To make it easier, you can Retweet.

3. Follow me on Twitter. 

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

5. Subscribe in an email to The Legacy of Home.  

6. Become a Public Follower through Google Friend Connect, or let me know if you are already a follower.

7. Choose to "Like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*

One random winner we be selected on Monday, November 22, 2010. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you. This product will ship directly from the company.

This contest is closed - The winner is Myrna Lee

*Disclosure -  I received these items and information  for review purposes.*

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