Making Home a Refuge

LOC: Sitting by the fireplace around 1925.

On a recent trip, I stopped at one of the historic 1800's homestead museums, here in Vermont. This was on our way home from a doctor visit.  I am trying to find inspiration and encouragement in homemaking.  I want to keep learning and keep making an effort to make our home a pleasant place to be.  I do this in the midst of whatever else is happening around me. It happens in any leisure moments or while waiting for important things. 

On this visit I saw the grounds of the property. There was a kitchen garden, an orchard, barns, sheds, and a lovely home. I thought about all the work that went into running this home and managing the care of the laundry, the meals, the cleaning, and the welcoming of guests and family. Many of these old properties are surrounded by trees and hedges providing the home with a place of tranquility and rest. 

The landscaping was charming with graveled walkways along the grassy areas. I walked around the property slowly with much thought.

Mrs. White at one of the historic homesteads, here in Vermont.

This home was built around the same time as my own house, in the 1850's.  At the time of my visit, the museum was closed for the season. I was given permission to walk the grounds, however, and someday hope to return when they are open so I can see inside the house. (Whenever this happens, I will share all about it with you here.)

Back at home, I am so grateful for the privilege of having a place to live. Even though our house is humble, old, in great need of paint and repairs, it is a blessing! 

I try to keep a quiet atmosphere. This does not refer to noise, but to a sense of peace. We do our best, as homemakers, to create a meaningful culture around us. This comforts the family and gives them a sense of routine and a love for that which is good. 

 Some things that are common here are the hearing of sermons, the gentle playing of hymns in the background, and the happy sound of chatter. 

Bible time is a much-loved aspect of the routine. It happens mostly at sporadic times. Participants include whoever is at home at present.  This includes the reading of a passage of Scripture, the singing of hymns, and a time of prayer.  Bible time happens informally (at sporadic times) and formally (in the evening).  There are times when some of our grandchildren are visiting through the dinner hour and the sun is setting. The children are present when it is time for our evening Bible time.  We love when this happens as the children get to participate in our beloved family worship. There are other times when grown children happen to stop by for a visit at just the right time. We enjoy a rest from all that is going on in the world as we gratefully read the Bible and pray together.

Other aspects of home life include sewing, mending, washing dishes, sweeping floors and doing laundry. Whoever happens to be here, joins right in to help with the blessing of work. 

We enjoy bringing happiness to others as we serve in the home.  The other day, some of the grandchildren were here for a visit.  I called the two oldest ones into the kitchen. We were preparing an afternoon treat. Grand-girl set the table with plates, napkins, and silverware.  Grandson cut strawberries and served them on the plates. I carefully sliced small pieces of homemade cake for everyone.  When the table was ready, Grand-girl rang the dinner bell to call the rest of the children.  They came running, as they wondered what was happening.  As soon as they saw the delightful cake and fresh fruit at their seats, they brightened with smiles and happiness.  Then I handed a spoon and a container of Cool Whip to Grand-girl. The children had never seen it before and didn't know what it was! It is a rare treat in our house. I reminded her of the duties of a hostess, spreading good manners while serving. She walked around the table asking each "guest" if they would like some Cool Whip. Each responded with a "yes, please," as she dished out a portion beside their cake.  Then we paused for a prayer of thanksgiving before we began to eat.  A lovely time was had by all.

This is how we create a beautiful culture in our homes - by chores, service, and the love and care of the family. We work hard at being peacemakers, forgiving, extending mercy, and cultivating a gracious heart.  This great and noble work of homemaking is essential to passing on the joy and peace of family life. Today, and always, shut out the troubles of the outside world. Then let us keep making home a bright and cheerful place to be. 

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives -

Old Time Living - A Louisa May Alcott Winter. 

Financial Struggles - A New England Winter on a Small Income. 

A Mother's Greatest Use of Time - A Humble Parlour as a School of Theology.

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