tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72103299661197078562024-03-20T03:34:11.102-04:00Mountain Mom{me}A little cooking,
A little crafting,
A little chatting,
A little laughing,
and a LOT of prayer and praise!!Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.comBlogger109125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-7129798087477232032015-02-28T23:17:00.002-05:002015-03-06T10:15:01.822-05:00Happy Birthday Jude!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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THREE YEARS OLD!! I don't know if it is the fact that I have always stayed at home with Jude or that he is the third or that I am getting much older, but that fact that he is three is hard for me to handle! Time has passed like a whirlwind since he was born. It is amazing the grow and changes that I have had the joy and privilege of seeing in Jude. Like the other two at this age, he still isn't much of a talker, but I'm sure that will change!! As we celebrate his third birthday (or 3/4 to his first REAL birthday since arrived on Leap Day), we are so thankful that God chose Josh and I to be his parents.<br />
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So Jude, you're THREE!! What kind of boy are you?<br />
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<ul>
<li>You are WILD. You will climb, run, and jump on ANYTHING with NO fear. You make me nervous.</li>
<li>You are a ball of energy. From the time you wake up until the time you lay down, you are moving (generally pilfering in something you shouldn't.)</li>
<li>You do the "Old Man Shuffle." When you wake up in the morning, your shuffle your feet like a little old man, then will crawl super fast until you reach me or Daddy. It's so silly!</li>
<li>You are <i>funny</i>!! You already know what makes people laugh and your comedic timing is usually spot on!</li>
<li>You love Mickey Mouse, pirates, cowboys, cartoons and nilk (AKA: milk.) </li>
<li><i>Tinkerbell and the Fairy Pirate</i> is probably your favorite movie. You affectionately call it the Fairy ARRR!!</li>
<li>You're LOUD! </li>
<li>Although using the big boy potty is not even on your radar, you have been sleeping in a big boy bed for about two months...all night long!</li>
<li>You love to do puzzles, both the wooden kind and little apps on the iPad. It's AMAZING to watch your little brain work.</li>
<li>Swinging is your absolute favorite outdoor activity. </li>
<li>Recently, you have started saying "Bwess you" when people sneeze and it is so stinkin' cute.</li>
<li>You love to give hugs!! </li>
</ul>
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You have filled our days with so much joy, love, energy, and life. We are blessed to call you ours!</div>
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We love you!!</div>
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Mommy, Daddy, Abby, and Micah</div>
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-64436051293876767422014-12-04T23:24:00.002-05:002015-03-06T10:15:38.705-05:00Happy 6th Birthday, Micah!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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AGH!!! I cannot wrap my little brain around the fact that today is Micah's SIXTH birthday....if life were a math class, I would be rounding up to 10! Time is simply something that cannot be controlled.<br />
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Many <b><i>"firsts"</i></b> came when welcoming Micah into the world six years ago...my first son, my first c-section, my first surgery...EVER, my first time understanding the bond between a mother and a son, my first glimpse into the type of sibling Abby would be, my first time having to divide my attention between two kids, and my first EYE-OPENING look into how having a second child somehow equates to a quadrupling in laundry!! <br />
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Nevertheless, all of these firsts (save the laundry one) have magnified my quality of life. Micah is a gentle spirit, a gentle soul, and an easy child to be around. <br />
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So Micah, at 6, what type of boy are you?<br />
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<ul>
<li>You are now in Kindergarten!! WOW! Each day you are learning new things and excelling at each challenge you are given.</li>
<li>You are unbelievably quiet in a vehicle...which is AWESOME! You simply enjoy looking out the window and sitting still.</li>
<li>Like your daddy, you are a hunter. You look forward to spending days out scouting deer, hunting in the blind, or training the dogs to find quail. And your Daddy likes those days too!</li>
<li>You melt my heart (still) when you just randomly say "Mommy, I love you!!" Sometimes you come and find me just to say that. Everyone in the family receives these kind words from you.</li>
<li>As when you were a little baby, you STILL love to carry little toys around. But now, you find the oddest places to keep those toys. No longer does a baby fist clench a bouncy ball during naptime, but now you stick toys down in your footie pajamas at night. Or you find little containers to keep things in.</li>
<li> You have discovered LEGOS....and I couldn't be happier. I have enjoyed watching your confidence grow as you once watched daddy build the Legos to building independently...and being so proud. (Although, there are NO words to describe the pain of stepping on Legos!)</li>
<li>Your eyes and smile are simply magically...I pray you always keep this innocent charm about you.</li>
<li>You bring an immense amount of joy, love, and happiness to each member of this family. You are truly a BLESSING!</li>
</ul>
We love you and wish you a very happy 6th birthday!!<br />
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Love, </div>
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Mommy, Daddy, Abby, and Jude<br />
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Note: Micah did have a bowling birthday party at the bowling lanes at the Bass Pro Shop in Bristol, TN. However, Jude had the stomach bug so I was unable to attend :(. Josh took the older two kids and Justin, Marta, and Kara Brooks and Troy Wilson went. I was SO sad to miss the first birthday celebration of any of my kids, but Micah was looking so forward to it, I hated to reschedule. As a result, I have NO pictures. </div>
Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-24943525238213764872014-04-25T21:14:00.001-04:002014-04-25T21:17:39.346-04:00Happy Easter! Now What To Do With All Those Easter Eggs!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What an fantastic Easter our family had!!! We enjoyed a wonderful, sunny day made by the Lord and had great time at church and with our little family. What hope we all have knowing that our Savior is risen so that we may all have the opportunity at eternal life in Heaven!! Praise God!! It feels my heart with joy, but also with a great sense of responsibility. <br />
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All too quickly, the world will try to lure my children away from the Lord and His teachings. It is imperative that as parents, Josh and I instill a strong foundation in the Lord each and every day, not just at Easter and Christmas. In order to do that, <i><b>we</b></i> must have a <i><b>daily</b></i> walk with the Lord, not just at Easter and Christmas. It is easy to become lax in the walk, but it must be our number one priority. All of our thoughts, actions, choices, activities, and conversations should revolve around a Christ-centered life. Praise God that He has seen fit to give me more time on this Earth to strengthen my walk with Him, not only for my sake but for my kids as well. We never know when our last breath will come, so walk with Him daily!!<br />
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Okay, I'm done preaching!! So now on to some education.....plastic Easter eggs! How many are floating around your house after opening Easter baskets on Sunday? If your house is like mine, they seem to multiply at an exponential rate. I know I only put 2-3 in each Easter basket, but the floor looks like a colorful hatchery only five days later!<br />
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So what to do with all those Easter eggs? Something educational, of course! I created some letter matching eggs for Micah. On the top half of the egg, I wrote capital letters and lower case letters on the bottom half of the eggs. This is a great activity for Micah. It generally takes him 5-10 minutes to make all the matches, depending on how "extracted" (distracted) he is.<br />
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If your little one is past matching up letters, you can use the eggs to match up almost anything: fractions, analog and digital times, numbers and number words, etc. They can also be used for young preschoolers to help sort colors. <br />
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-62469368907895389822014-03-13T23:20:00.001-04:002014-03-13T23:34:06.231-04:00Happy Birthday, Abby!!!<br />
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Eight years ago my life on this earth and the path I was following forever changed when a little red-faced, wiggly, tiny girl was placed in my arms. Abigail Beth entered into the world at 3:42 am on March 13, 2006 and immediately became a thief when she stole me heart. I remember during those early days of motherhood, I was so naive, so young. If I made one mistake, I made a thousand. But fortunately, children are resilient and I realize, that through the grace of God, something has been done right because I have the most precious daughter to call my own.<br />
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As I reflect back, I remember those early morning feedings, sitting in the quiet stillness, just listening to her breathe. I remember praying for her future. Praying for her happiness. Praying for her to make positive choices. Praying for a future husband that would love her like Christ loved His church. I prayed for her to be strong, to be a leader and not always follow the crowd. I even prayed for a sense of humor, because who doesn't like a funny person!<br />
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Eight years later, I am still naive and sometimes helpless when dealing with an eight year old. I've never had one before. Since she is the oldest, Abby hears me apologizing to her...a lot. I make just as many mistakes now as I did as a young mother. Some days, I see the worst in me come out in her when she emulates something I have done or said that I'm not proud of and it makes me want to be a better person. Then she will act with such grace, maturity, and unbridled enthusiasm that I want to be just like her. She is an amazing little girl. Although she is growing up, I sometimes forget how little she still is...eight is still small and I try to cherish and hold on to those things she still does that are just plain little.<br />
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Independence, self-esteem issues, peer pressure, driving, and boys are lurking just around the corner and I'm not sure I am ready for it. But I will continue to pray for her future. I will continue to pray for God's guidance in our parenting decisions. I will continue to pray for her happiness. And I will continue to strive to be the woman my daughter thinks I am.<br />
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Abby, you are growing into such a beautiful young lady, on the inside and out. But what kind of girl are you?<br />
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<ul>
<li>You love to sing. All the time, everywhere. It may not even be the right words, but you LOVE to sing. In fact, the other day "Wrecking Ball" came on Pandora. Instead of singing "I came in like a wrecking ball...", you sang "I came in like a radio...." :)</li>
<li>You are quite the event planner. About once every two weeks, you organize "Family Fun Night." There are signs (created by you) and everyone must get a ticket (also created by you). We then come up to your room and rotate through stations that have different family activities. We have played games, made book marks, drawn pictures. One night we even had a talent show!! They are always really fun and cause lots of laughing!!</li>
<li>Hula hooping is your thing....and you are REALLY good!! You have learned to start with the hula hoop around your neck, then you move it all the way down to your knees, and back up to your waist again. All while smiling and making it look super easy....it's quite impressive!!</li>
<li>You LOVE to draw! You have all kinds of crayons, markers, colored pencils, and notepads. You could draw all day long! I don't know how many notepads you have filled up. You may have brighten our world, but you've killed a lot of trees!! </li>
<li>You love to write. If those notepads aren't getting colored in, they are being written in. You have already written several little stories about a variety of topics. In addition to this, your handwriting is really good too.</li>
<li>You love your brothers!! They are your biggest buddies and your biggest fan!! Micah idolizes you and Jude thinks you're his second mommy because you dote on him so much!! They are so fortunate to have you in their lives.</li>
<li>Math is your best subject!! You really like all things math and can catch onto new concepts really quickly (which is great for this homeschooling mama)!</li>
<li>You are very helpful. Every morning, you pick up your room and make your bed before school. You help me clean the house, set the table before eating and clear it after eating, dust the furniture. I may teach you to do the laundry and then all I have to do is cook. I'm kidding...or am I?</li>
<li>You have a cat. I don't know if this is a good thing or a bad thing. The cat is an awesome hunter. In fact, she likes to line up the porch with her spoils. But, she relieves herself in the garage....then you have to clean it up. So that's not so good. She is really pretty though. She has also had three names, so she either is really adaptable or doesn't care. She started out as Moonlight, then Sweetie Pie, and now it is Katniss, because of her superior hunting skills.</li>
<li>You are such a wonderful daughter. The whole family loves you more than you will ever know.</li>
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We love you,</div>
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Mommy, Daddy, Micah, and Jude</div>
Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-61577895527749639662014-03-13T18:05:00.001-04:002014-03-13T23:22:22.836-04:00Happy 2nd Birthday!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When I logged on today to write Abby's birthday post, I realized that I forgot to post Jude's second birthday post....so today is a two for one!!<br />
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February 28, 2014<br />
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Since February 29th does not exist this year, today Jude will turn 2!!! (Or six months old, depending how you look at it...just kidding) Anyway, these last two years have been some of the biggest for our family. First, Josh and I became outnumbered when Jude arrived. We both had career changes, mine was a resignation from teaching and Josh's was accepting a new position in North Carolina. Therefore, we had to move seven hours away. And to top it all off, I started homeschooling this year....and all along the way we had an infant that has grown and mature to a busy, little boy.<br />
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I should have known that Jude was really going to shake things up by the way things went the day he was born. First, it was Leap Day....what was I thinking! Next, there was a severe thunderstorm and tornado watch when we arrived at the hospital for a scheduled c-section. Next, my surgery was a learning day for two nursing students so I heard <i>every, single detail</i> of that surgery...a little cool, and a little weird at the same time. After surgery I was moved to recovery where I spent the next eight hours. Why eight when the norm is two, you ask? Because of <i>MULTIPLE</i> tornado sirens! Our families had to continuously exit the 4th floor of HMH to wait in the cafeteria. In fact, they didn't even see Jude until several hours after he was born. Only my sister, with her top-clearance HMH employee badge, was able to breach the forbidden walls of the recovery room. When we left the hospital on March 2, we didn't go home to our basement less house...we had to go our neighbors house to hang out in the basement while another line of tornado producing storms swept through the area. When we finally went home, the vinyl siding on the west end of our house resembled Swiss cheese due to the hail. (Our vehicles were equally mangled.) <br />
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Like the wild ride of those first few days of his life, Jude has continued to shake things up. He is able to crawl and climb into spaces that I didn't even now children could access. He is quick as lightning, stands his ground with his siblings, and did I mention LOVES to climb. Just this morning, as I was unloading the dryer, he slipped in behind me and climbed in. I went to unload the washer and found a surprise waiting for me, all smiles, in the dryer. <br />
<br />
When Jude was about 14 months old, I mentioned to my mom on the phone about how he was into everything. I mean, I've had two other children and they don't hold a candle to him. So Mom, in an encouraging way, reminded me that Jude is the first child that I have been around 24/7 and that perhaps it was the being a SAHM that made it SEEM like he was more active. Then she came for a visit. My mom, super mom, stay at home mom of three, nana to 10, even admitted that he was quite feisty. At least I know I'm not delusional:)<br />
<br />
But regardless of his busy nature, Jude's existence has been a blessing to all that know him and it is my privilege to be his mommy.<br />
<br />
So Jude, what kind of two year old are you?<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>You are busy. Very, very busy. You were born weighing 9 pounds and 7 ounces and at two only weigh weigh 22 lbs. Now before anyone gets concerned, this is not from lack of eating. No, you eat CONSTANTLY (ask anyone that has been around you for more than two minutes). It is from being busy!!</li>
<li>Since your last birthday, you have mastered the skill of walking. Although it was the latest of all three, you went straight from army crawl to sprinting.</li>
<li>Like the other two, you are a late talker. You have a pretty limited vocabulary...in English. But in Judanese (your very own language), you are quite proficient. You will call for "Mommy" or "Daddy", we will say yes Jude, and then you continue to tell us a long, elaborate story with all appropriate hand motions in a language that no one understands. But it is SO cute!! I wish I could translate what you were saying.</li>
<li>You call Abby "Nanny"!</li>
<li>You pretend to be a horse. I will hearing you neighing all throughout the day.</li>
<li>You love puzzles and you're really good. You have mastered all of them at home and have now started on iPad puzzles. </li>
<li>You love books. While I am teaching the other two, you spend time looking at books (sometimes reading them in Judanese). You also love being read to.</li>
<li>You like to dance. It is a specialized dance invented by you. It starts out in a squat position, add some bouncing to the beat of the music, and raise the right elbow (in bended position) above your head. Sometimes it switches to the other arm. Super cute!</li>
<li>You LOVE Abby and Micah. They are your snuggle buddies and your playtime friends. Although you love hanging out with Micah, Abby loves to dote on you, so you love to snuggle with her.</li>
<li>You sing a "sleepy song" when you get tired! So sweet! As soon as I put in your pacifier for bedtime, you start humming and feeling of your ears. We call it your sleepy song:)</li>
<li>In addition to your sleepy song, you are obsessed with feeling of skin when you get tired. My face, ears, but your favorite, is down my shirt....we are hoping you outgrow this before you start dating!</li>
<li>You love to smile and you have quite a handsome one at that!!</li>
<li>You are a lefty! Great for baseball, but Daddy is concerned about teaching you to shoot a gun!</li>
<li>You have made all of us better and complete our family. We are so thankful for you and are blessed to call you our son/brother. We love you!!!</li>
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Love, </div>
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Mommy, Daddy, Abby, and Micah</div>
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<br />Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-77019468500435744622014-02-11T23:55:00.002-05:002014-02-12T11:35:28.416-05:00Hello, my name is Rachel and I am an Olympic nerd!<br />
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It was 1994. Winter. I was in the fourth grade at Lynnvale Elementary School. A student in Mrs. Karen Bland's class. By my side were those class mates that had been a part of my world since Kindergarten. I LOVED school, regardless of the classroom activities. But when Mrs. Bland announced that we were starting a unit in honor of the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway, I of course was excited, but had no idea that a love for all things Olympics that would blossom from that unit.<br />
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In order to really connect with the games, I portrayed myself as an ice skater. Two classmates and I would choreograph "short programs" during gym, recess, and any other moment we had to "train." We perfected our jumps...of course instead of triple axles, we were throwing down half axles. Nancy Kerrigan was our idol, which meant Tonya Harding was our arch nemesis. We were totally engrossed in those winter Olympic games.<br />
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Then there was class. Athlete reports, recreating the flags of participating countries, critiquing events from the previous night, updating medal counts each day, learning about new sports....sigh...to be in fourth grade again. It was so much fun!!! But all too soon, the closing ceremonies were over and the Olympic flame of the XVII Olympic Winter Games was extinguished.<br />
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But my love for the Olympics still burns today. I LOVE the Olympics!! I love the fierce competition. I love learning about the host country. I love the stories on the athletes. I love Olympic trivia and history. I am a true Olympic nerd!!! If I had a bucket list, going to the Olympics would definitely be on it....maybe I should start one (but after the Olympics:) ). Although I enjoy watching both the summer and winter games, my heart has a special place for the Winter Olympics. <br />
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Josh and I began dating in the fall of 2002 and were married by the summer of 2004. In that time, there were no Olympic games, therefore Josh had never actually seen me as a spectator of the games. In our vows we did not specifically mention the Olympics, but just eight short weeks after the "I do's" were exchanged, the summer Olympics began. He was only a little afraid of my devotion. Since then he has faithfully watched each and every Olympics (although I have noticed he's not much of a figure skating fan.)<br />
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Now we have offspring....someone I can pass the "torch" to when it comes to loving the Olympics. So what better way to instill a love and appreciation of the Olympics and the level of competition than be creating a Winter Olympic Unit.<br />
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So much can be gleaned from the Olympics...understanding the significance of tenths and hundredths when comparing speeds, geography and the history of those countries, the history of each winter sport, witnessing the commitment of athletes, a lesson in the culture of the host country. It is a great platform for learning!!! <br />
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So I created a pack that has both 2nd grade and preschool activities. The pack includes Venn diagrams, a medal count sheet with questions for after the Olympics, craft activities, a timeline of Olympic history, a writing prompt, and much more for the 2nd grade level. For the preschoolers in your life, the Letters G and S are highlighted. There is also shape review, math activities, a fun matching game, and more.<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B882irn82ubGU0pwdTAwTHYybXM/edit" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">2014 Winter Olympic Pack</span></b></a><br />
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In addition to the pack, we have or plan on completing a variety of other activities:<br />
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<ul>
<li> <a href="http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/make-your-own-olympic-medals" target="_blank">Create our own medals</a></li>
<li>Create a large medal count chart for the USA</li>
<li><a href="http://www.coloringcastle.com/flag_coloring_pages.html" target="_blank">Create a garland of flags</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.makeandtakes.com/winter-olympic-crafts-and-games-for-kids" target="_blank">Compete in our own "games"</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/id/54267033/ns/local_news-raleigh_nc/t/planning-olympic-sized-party-winter-games/#.UvxK8rCPLIU" target="_blank">Olympic Party</a></li>
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So I realize that my love of all things Olympic may not be hereditary, but I will not be deterred in trying to <strike>force</strike> pass it on to the kiddos through a really fun Olympic theme unit! Happy learning!<br />
<br />Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-25442491451976599122014-01-25T15:21:00.001-05:002014-01-25T15:23:56.503-05:00Penguin Unit <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUnMtsTQaJM/UuQZ-YNJJaI/AAAAAAAACB0/m1iGKvY85rs/s1600/Recently+Updated9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUnMtsTQaJM/UuQZ-YNJJaI/AAAAAAAACB0/m1iGKvY85rs/s1600/Recently+Updated9.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div>
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Penguins.....Just typing the word reminds me of the cute little birds that act like a fish. Their little legs and their little waddle....just so stinking cute! I mean, who doesn't love penguins. They are interesting little creatures that provide entertainment and learning for all ages.<br />
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I decided that the kids would enjoy a penguin unit during the winter months of January. Plus, I could find or create activities that address both preschool and second grade. <br />
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For Micah, I used the penguin unit as a way to introduce the letter P. The penguins were also used as a way for continued exposure to numbers, shapes, and colors. I created this packet for the preschool age.<br />
This packet includes a letter maze, a color matching game, pattern play, shape tracing, letter tracing, and more all with the penguin theme throughout.<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B882irn82ubGS0x5ZEUzbFplREk/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Preschool Penguin Pack</a></div>
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In addition to the Penguin Preschool Pack, I also used the following activities:<br />
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<a href="http://www.makinglearningfun.com/themepages/PenguinColorbynumber.htm" target="_blank">Color by Number</a><br />
<a href="http://www.makinglearningfun.com/themepages/PenguinDottoDot.html" target="_blank">Penguin Number Dot-to-Dot</a><br />
<a href="http://www.makinglearningfun.com/t.asp?b=m&t=http://www.makinglearningfun.com/Activities/ABC/ABCDottoDotPages/ABCdottodot-Penguin.gif" target="_blank">Penguin Letter Dot-to-Dot</a><br />
<a href="http://www.makinglearningfun.com/themepages/penguinsPolarBears.htm" target="_blank">Other Fun Penguin Activities</a><br />
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For Abby, my second grader, the penguin theme was used to teach math, literacy, geography, and science (habitat, predator/prey). So I turned to the Internet for sources that I could use for instruction at the second grade level. And here is what I found:<br />
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<b><u>Math</u></b><br />
<a href="http://www.mathwire.com/themes/themepen.html#math" target="_blank">Mathwire</a> -- This site offers a TON of penguin themed math activities. The area that I liked the most for Abby was the problem solving section. In addition to math activities for Abby, this site could be utilized for preschool as well, although some activities may require some minor modification.<br />
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<a href="http://makinglearningfun.com/themepages/GridWorkPenguin.htm" target="_blank">Penguin Grid Activity</a> -- A fun coloring activity that also focuses on plotting points.<br />
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<b><u>Literacy</u></b><br />
I found several different short passages with comprehension questions for Abby. Since reading is an area of concern for her, we generally spend 3-5 days on a passage to ensure comprehension and to improve reading skills through repetition. However, there were a couple of these that she just read 2-3 times in one day and then answered the questions.<br />
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<a href="http://www.readworks.org/search/apachesolr_search/Penguin?filters=type%3Apassage" target="_blank">Penguin Passages</a> -- Read Works is a great website that has reading passages for all different reading levels. They offer fiction and non-fiction choices as well as a wide variety of topics. PLUS each passage has corresponding questions. You do have to be a member to download the passages and activities, but it is a FREE membership...and what's better than getting something for free.<br />
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<a href="http://www.havefunteaching.com/worksheets/reading-worksheets/reading-comprehension-worksheets/second-grade-reading-comprehension-worksheets/second-grade-reading-comprehension-worksheet-peter-penguin/" target="_blank">Peter the Penguin</a> -- Another great website for reading passages is Have Fun Teaching. The reading is divided into grade levels and each come with comprehension questions as well.<br />
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<a href="http://www.tlsbooks.com/penguins.pdf" target="_blank">Penguins Reading Passage</a><br />
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After reading the passages, Abby would generally complete a journal entry as well. With several of the passages, she simply summarized the passage. However, we also made a deliberate attempt to identify the who, what, when, where, why, and how of each passage as well as discussing the differences in fiction and non-fiction.<br />
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<u><b>Science</b></u><br />
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<a href="http://www.teachersnotebook.com/product/TeacherTreasureHunter/penguin-writing-freebie-read-and-write-about-6-species-of-penguins" target="_blank">Playful Penguins</a> -- This is a great free packet that highlights six species of penguins. The habitat, food, predators, appearance, and facts about each species is covered. There is also a neat graphic organizer for each species as well. Also, when we studied each penguin, we used a map to highlight where each species lived. It was a great way to discuss Northern and Southern Hemispheres, continents, the equator, and other geographical facts.<br />
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In addition to the provided activities, we did a measuring and comparison activity, which the kids loved. I cut out a strip of paper (actually it was three that I pieced together) that measured to 48 inches and marked off inches and feet. Next, I cut out nine read arrows (six for the penguins, three for my kids.) I wrote the names of the kids on three of the arrows. Abby cut out the little circle images of the six penguin species discussed in the Play Penguins unit. So using the measuring strip, we marked the height of each penguin and the kids. They LOVED seeing how tall they were in comparison to the penguins and thought it was so funny to learn that emperor penguins are pretty much the same size as Micah (who is five.) We referred to this activity several times throughout the unit. <br />
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<b><u>Books</u></b><br />
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Once Jude is down for his afternoon nap, we have story time, just me and the older two. It is such a fun time for me because everything is calm and I can simply enjoy my kids without having a 22 month requiring CONSTANT supervision. These are a few books that we read that correlated with this unit. Judging from the questions and discussions that stemmed from story time, I would say the kids LOVED these books.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EpaKcE3p79Y/UuQSpFaCidI/AAAAAAAACBk/ujgCcskBOCE/s1600/Antarctica+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EpaKcE3p79Y/UuQSpFaCidI/AAAAAAAACBk/ujgCcskBOCE/s1600/Antarctica+Cover.jpg" height="200" width="156" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Antarctica-Helen-Cowcher/dp/0312589794" target="_blank">Antarctica by: Helen Cowcher</a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bOn5xXuixg4/UuQSoMAKFxI/AAAAAAAACBY/po99bvv6Vww/s1600/Tacky+the+Penguin+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bOn5xXuixg4/UuQSoMAKFxI/AAAAAAAACBY/po99bvv6Vww/s1600/Tacky+the+Penguin+Cover.jpg" height="200" width="165" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tacky-Penguin-Helen-Lester/dp/0395562333/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1390678362&sr=1-2&keywords=tacky+the+penguin" target="_blank">Tacky the Penguin by Helen Lester</a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tbiyKBwW3Ko/UuQSondxk3I/AAAAAAAACBc/QrIW9aFqArk/s1600/penguin+chick+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tbiyKBwW3Ko/UuQSondxk3I/AAAAAAAACBc/QrIW9aFqArk/s1600/penguin+chick+cover.jpg" height="162" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Penguin-Chick-Lets-Read---Find-Out-Science/dp/0064452069/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1390678446&sr=1-1&keywords=penguin+chick" target="_blank">Penguin Chick by Betty Tatham</a><br />
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In addition to the activities above, we also finished some fun art projects: <br />
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<a href="http://herdingkats.blogspot.com/2011/12/penguins-freebie.html" target="_blank">Penguin Glyph</a><br />
<a href="http://www.nothingbutpenguins.com/how-to-draw-a-penguin/" target="_blank">How To Draw a Penguin</a><br />
<a href="http://www.craftjr.com/preschool-christmas-crafts-paper-plate-penguin/" target="_blank">Penguin Paper Plate Craft</a><br />
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All in all, this was a really fun unit for everyone.....including me. Happy learning!!<br />
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<br />Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-37196856427062385602014-01-22T10:59:00.001-05:002014-01-22T17:01:21.534-05:00Start the Day Off With Math!! Daily Math Sheet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Every morning, the first thing Abby completes is a daily math sheet. Not necessarily her most favorite thing to do, but it starts the day off with learning in mind. It's a great little review that highlights place value, time, money, and expanded notation while reviewing calendar basics.<br />
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It is also a great way to see her growth over the year. Some things she could not complete at the beginning of the year, but now she can.<br />
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I generally print this front and back to save on some paper. Happy learning!!<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B882irn82ubGVU53cnpBZFhiWWM/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Daily Math Sheet</a><br />
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-45616676688764782382014-01-21T17:19:00.000-05:002014-01-22T17:01:41.451-05:00ABC...Easy as 123 Spelling Packet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For Abby's spelling this year, I chose to not purchase a curriculum because there is an abundance of spelling lists for all levels available on the Internet. As a review, Abby's first four weeks of spelling consisted of sight words from first grade. Since then, I have used spelling lists that are available on Spelling City. Lists do not require a log-in and password, but some of the activities are unavailable without it. However, other lists can be found from a simple search of the internet. I generally try to use a list where the words have something in common. For example, some of Abby's lists have included -oi and -oy words, glued sounds (-ild, old, -ind), and ending sounds (-less, -ment, -ful, -ness).</div>
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Spelling requires of repetition, phonetic understanding, and practice. However, I didn't want to just have Abby write her spelling words each week but use different strategies to learn the spelling words. So I created this packet that can be used with any spelling list. Also, since there is a wide array of activities, each week can be different. In total, the packet includes 15 pages (13 spelling activities, 1 weekly guide sheet, and 1 sheet of additional activities.) Hopefully, this packet can be beneficial for your little speller whether you homeschool or not!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B882irn82ubGNkdEMHlKR1BVVWc/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Spelling Packet</a><br />
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-52948511453725638542013-12-31T23:34:00.004-05:002013-12-31T23:34:35.911-05:00Happy 5th Birthday, Micah!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On December 3, I tucked in a four year old for the last time because the next morning, Micah woke up a five year old!! It is hard to believe that five years has passed since his birth. I still remember his kicks and movements when we were still one. But now that we are two, I get to experience "I love yous" and hugs each and everyday. <br />
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So Micah, what kind of a boy are you now that your five?<br />
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<ul>
<li>You are still one of the sweetest boys on this earth. Multiple times throughout the day, this conversation will occur. Micah: "Mama, I need to tell you sumpin (something)." Me: "Okay, what is it?" Micah: "I love you!!" So sweet!!</li>
<li>You have learned all your numbers, colors, and shapes and how to write your name. You love homeschool preschool.</li>
<li>Although you still love Fatman (yes, you STILL say Fatman instead of Batman), you now have a new love---Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!! Michelangelo is your favorite.</li>
<li>You still love to wear your cowboy boots!!</li>
<li>You love to listen to stories, especially at bedtime.</li>
<li>You have quite an imagination!! You use all of your little figurines to fight epic battles, it doesn't matter that Batman, TMNT, Transformers, cars, and "weinie" dogs generally don't work together:)</li>
<li>Dress up is one of your favorite activities--Batman, ninjas, pirates, cowboys--I never know what you will be from one day to the next!</li>
<li>"Break dancing" is also one of your newest activities. You have recently perfected the knee-spin, the "Austin Moon", the crab move, and the cow turn....all Micah originals, of course!</li>
<li>Although there are several squabbles throughout the day, you love your brother and sister so much!! I pray the bond you all have formed continues for a lifetime.</li>
<li>You are funny, affectionate, loving, and a joy to have in our family.</li>
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We all love you more than you'll ever know!! God truly knew what he was doing when he picked you to be part of our family. Happy Birthday Micah!!</div>
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<br />Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-24259334676908538582013-12-31T23:34:00.003-05:002013-12-31T23:34:16.793-05:00Family UpdatesIn September, I posted that we were having computer troubles and I was excited to have the computer functioning properly again....well, it officially crashed a couple of weeks after my last post. Although, I could have blogged via the iPad, that is almost a form of torture. So in October, a new computer was purchased, but I wasn't a fan of the latest Microsoft operating system and wanted an older operating system that I was more accustomed to and also wanted our old computer revived as well. Needless to say, that took MUCH longer than anticipated. So now I have a new laptop that works AWESOME and the old computer is working too (which has years of pictures.) So now I can resume blogging on a consistent basis to document life with the Wilson's!!!<br />
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Quick updates:<br />
Abby's cat that Josh hated he now thinks is the coolest cat ever! She kills a mole or mouse every other and displays it for all to see on the front porch. Josh has decided that her name should be changed from Sweetie Pie to Katniss!!<br />
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Drake, the young German Shorthair puppy that Josh was training to be a bird dog, was unfortunately hit and killed on the road. He was a good dog that was a quick learner and doing well in his training. It was a sad day for the whole family. However, Josh has since acquired two more German Shorthair puppies, Chase and Gunner. Time will only tell if they prove to be as instinctual as Drake.<br />
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Micah had his first deer hunting experience and it turned out well!! Although he didn't actually pull the trigger, he had the opportunity to be with his Daddy and Papaw Steve when Josh killed a nice 8-point buck. I think Micah was definitely the most excited!!<br />
<br />Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-38218057744746854112013-09-01T23:26:00.001-04:002013-09-01T23:40:50.712-04:00Hilton Head Island(July 11-16) <br />
Josh has been blessed in his job since our move to North Carolina. As a result, he won the All-Star for the family to Hilton Head Island. This was our first trip to Hilton Head and we LOVED it. We enjoyed swimming in the pool, combing the beaches for seashells, great seafood, a sunset bike ride through Spanish moss laden trees, and a whole lot of relaxing, family time.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Although, the kids have taken some swim lessons this summer, this mama still required life jackets.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soaking up the sun</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The theme for this year's All-Star was a beach party. Micah was playing pirate ship.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jude enjoying the show!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Future guitarist?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clearly, air guitarist skills are hereditary!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at her go!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good morning!! Jude is laying on Micah!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going for a bike ride....this is the life!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Admiring a little seashell</td></tr>
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-62975346454347569032013-09-01T23:18:00.004-04:002013-09-01T23:18:31.836-04:00Baby Brothers Shower(June 22, 2013)<br />
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My sweet sister Stephanie and her husband Tommy had a baby shower to prepare for their new baby boy. Although Stephanie has a 10 year old son and Tommy has an 8 year old son, it has been awhile since a little baby has graced their home and they definitely needed all the goodies that come from a shower. Here are some pictures of the festive affair.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another beautiful cake made by my sister in law Pam. The baby's room has frogs and alligators.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wishing Tree...guests of the shower were able to write a tidbit of advice for the parents and hang them on a wishing tree.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tommy and Stephanie Brothers</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of the goodies!!!</td></tr>
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-74771540675170938112013-09-01T23:13:00.002-04:002013-09-01T23:31:43.401-04:00"Take Me Out the Ballgame"<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down and Ready!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Micah receiving his medal</td></tr>
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Ball season was a busy one for the Wilson kids. Abby played on two ball teams and Micah played on his very first tee-ball team. Abby played on a parks and rec softball team and a church sponsored baseball team.<br />
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This was Abby's third year playing ball and to be honest, she didn't enjoy it as much as in the past. We really missed having Timmy Link as her coach. He can really bring the best out in the young girls he coaches. Although Abby enjoys playing softball, the fate of her future is still in the air. She may decide to not play next year.<br />
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Micah really enjoyed his first year of tee-ball. Of course, watching a group of four year olds fight over the ball, run the bases backwards, and pile up at home plate is always enjoyable for the parents to watch.<br />
RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-28738783488259712762013-09-01T23:12:00.000-04:002013-09-01T23:31:53.304-04:00Goodbye First Grade...Finally(June 12, 2013)<br />
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The longest school year <i>EVER</i> concluded on June 12. Of course, missing 20 days of school due to snow will definitely delay to end of school year. Abby had a really great year transitioning to a new school year. But part of that reason was her wonderful teacher, Mrs. Matthews. She loved Abby like she was her own daughter and welcomed the whole family into her heart. Abby loved school and loved her teacher. Here are some pictures of the "End of the Year Movie Premier Party."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mrs. Story (Instructional Assistant). Such a sweet person that loved and helped Abby all year.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mrs. Matthews and Abby</td></tr>
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-76983293908472504972013-09-01T23:10:00.001-04:002013-09-01T23:32:01.846-04:00Operation Dance(June 1, 2013)<br />
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Abby's first year in clogging concluded with a great recital entitled "Operation Dance"--which was a wonderful salute to veterans. It also displayed a variety of dance routines that was super enjoyable to watch. Although the pictures of the recital turned out blurry, I did capture a couple before she took the stage.<br />
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-25060242869641848452013-09-01T21:01:00.002-04:002013-09-01T23:37:27.953-04:00A Six Month Vacation? Wow...6 months! That's how long it has been since my last post. No, I haven't fell of the face of the earth, banned technology, been on a six month vacation, or taken a vow of blogging silence. So where have I been?<br />
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Right after my last post, our family moved from our condo on top of the mountain to a house in the valley. Although the views were beautiful on top of the mountain, the drive was terrible and the condo wasn't conducive to family life. So we now have a house that has more room than we have ever had in our entire married life plus it has a yard. We are so blessed to have this house and we really love it. Lots of room for the kids, an extra bedroom for visiting family and friends, and a "man cave" for Josh. He is so excited to have his deer hung on the wall and his wildlife prints proudly displayed for all to see. Of course, it quickly turned into a family room for everyone, but so nice to have the extra room. We are truly blessed!! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids enjoyed the packing paper WAY more than mama!!</td></tr>
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However, the move proved traumatic for our computer. It has been unable to connect to the internet and even had to be placed in "CCU" for a while. But it's now up and going, so blogging can begin again. Of course, it has been working for about a month, but I just haven't taken the time to write a post until today.<br />
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In addition to the move, we now have a walker on our hands. Jude officially started walking one week shy of 18 months, our latest walker. However, Abby was 17 1/2 months and Micah was 16 months, so they have all taken their sweet time. But no complaints from me. When you have a late walker, it's almost like you have a baby longer! :) <br />
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We also have two,new family members. Federal Heavyshot Drake joined our family in May. He's a German Shorthair with whom I have a love/hate relationship. He is a super smart dog that shows a promising future with bird hunting, but he has dug up geraniums, hostas, tomatoes, and chewed on anything that gets in his way, including trash, shoes, cups, toys...I'm sure you get the picture!! I'm hoping that he outgrows this before...well....just sometime very, very soon!!! In addition to Drake, we also have Sweetie Pie, Abby's little yellow kitten....with whom <i>Josh</i> has a love/hate relationship. He loves to hate the cat!! She isn't allowed in the house because Josh and Micah are both allergic. But she has killed two mice and proudly displayed them on the front porch for all to see. She has also proven the perfect play toy for Drake. His days are filled with chasing, tormenting, chewing on, and carrying around the cat. Although it seems torturous, she always returns for more.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture was snapped right after Drake was added to our family. He is bigger than Jude now. Josh will LOVE that I posted a picture of Jude with a purple pacifier.</td></tr>
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We also concluded the school year, had an end of the year dance recital, completed two ball seasons for Abby and one for Micah, swim lessons for the older two, a baby shower for my sister, a family vacation, and a NEW baby nephew!!! <br />
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But the biggest change is a new school year....AT HOME!! Josh and I decided that this school year, we would be homeschooling, so lots of new and exciting things at the Wilson home. (More about homeschooling later.)<br />
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Each of these events deserve some pictures on a post of their own. Until then, ta-ta! I promise it won't be another six months.<br />
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-44219419209111359422013-03-20T09:34:00.001-04:002013-03-20T09:35:39.069-04:00Happy 7th Birthday, Abigail Beth!!(March 13)<br />
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SEVEN YEARS OLD!! That is hard for me to say. Seven is a strange age. Not really a baby anymore, but not really a big kid at the same time. In today's world, seven year old girls believe they need to act 10 or 11. I am happy to say, thanks to much prayer and guidance from the ultimate parenting book, the Bible, Abby is happy to be seven and acts like she's seven. Of course, that could change tomorrow, but right now she is just seven.<br />
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I vividly remember finding out we were expecting, the entire pregnancy, the labor, and the first look at her beautiful, squishy, red face. It was the moment I became a mommy and my focus shifted to someone so small and 100% dependent upon me and Daddy. I was such a strange feeling in the wee hours of March 13, 2006. I was young and naive, but I had to be grown up at the same time. Unfortunately, like most young parents, we made LOTS of mistakes. Hopefully, she won't remember those:) As our firstborn, however, she will experience being a teenager at the same time we become parents of a teenager for the first time (YIKES) so expect more mistakes:) Firsts for Abby will also be firsts for us as parents!!<br />
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A couple weeks before her birthday, Abby announced that she was ready to live on her own and have the responsibilities of a mommy!!! Of course, my mouth dropped open. So Josh and I decided to give her "adult" responsibility. We told her she would clean the whole house, do everyone's laundry, change Jude's diaper, put the boys down for their naps, prepare meals for the family, etc. (Perhaps this was one of those a fore mentioned mistakes!) Needless to say, she quickly withdrew her comment and hasn't mentioned it since. Except for that momentary longing to be a grown up, she is generally content to be her happy self:)<br />
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So Abby, what type of girl are you?<br />
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<li>You LOVE school!! Perhaps it is just the social aspect of it, but you enjoy learning. During our numerous snow days, we had "school" at home for about two hours to work on spelling and math. You even enjoyed those days. Of course, you did like socializing with Micah while he was coloring:)</li>
<li>You LOVE to color and write. Toys only hold your attention temporarily, but you could draw, write, and make "books" for hours. </li>
<li>The only thing that you repeatedly asked for for Christmas was a stapler. Nana and Papaw obliged and gave you a pink stapler. You have used that stapler to make book after book after book. So funny that you love that stapler!!</li>
<li>You love your brothers. You have been such a huge help with Jude. You frequently play, sing, or talk to him when he is sad/fussy/whiny and it HELPS. His legs start kicking as soon as you start talking. Although you sometimes antagonize Micah and you all like to fight and pick, you are still concerned for his welfare and love to watch out for him and help him.</li>
<li>You are a hugger!! You hug everybody. In fact, sometimes it becomes a problem. You want to get up in the middle of class and hug your teacher. Although we don't want to squash that enthusiasm, it has been a challenge to teach you when it is okay to hug and when you need to wait. Nevertheless, you are still a hugger.</li>
<li>Clogging!! You have turned into a great little clogger. When we first moved to NC, we started you in gymnastics, but decided to switch you to clogging in September. What a great move!! You love clogging! You love the costumes, the shoes, the constant moving. And the best perk is you have made friends. One in particular, Kara, has turned out to be great for the everyone since our whole family has befriended her family.</li>
<li>I have been amazed at how well you have adjusted to our move. Although you have moments when you miss your family and Evan, you have quickly made friends here and have adjusted well to life in the mountains.</li>
<li>You enjoy hiking. I am impressed at how much you enjoy this. You are generally a little hesitant and <br />"whiny" when we start a hike, but quickly you take the lead and are tromping through mud and bravely leading us along the trail.</li>
<li>You're a movie junkie!! You love movies and TV. In fact, if I don't monitor your TV time, you would be there all day.</li>
<li>You are sweet, caring, emotional, energetic, and a joy in our lives. Although I can't hold you in my arms as easily as I used to, you will always be my baby, my first love, the one who made me a mommy.</li>
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-9552607586248950192013-03-12T13:39:00.000-04:002013-03-12T13:43:04.033-04:00Two Times the Party FunSince Jude and Abby's birthdays are only 13 days apart, I decided to have a combo birthday party. Much easier to do two at one time then separate. Since Abby adores her little brother, she thought the idea was fun. (When they are turning 16 and 10, she will probably have a different opinion.) Anyway, Abby was adament about wanting Hello Kitty for her birthday theme. So I decided to pair a cute little puppy party with Hello Kitty. I mean, it is only a matter of time before they are fighting like cats and dogs:)<br />
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Abby was so tickled that Nana, Stephanie, Tommy, and Caleb could attend her party. Although it is too far for all of our family from Kentucky and Illinois to come, we were thankful that some could attend. We also had some friends from church, Scotty and Christy, and their four boys came. (Trey, Kole, Seth, and Jake) Some other friends that we met through Abby's clogging also came to the party, Kara and her mom Marta. It was a beautiful day, especially in the mountains. The kids took full advantage of the indoor pool. Although living in a condo has some disadvantages, one pro is we have an indoor pool and a clubhouse that was great for the party. Here are some pictures of our festive Saturday of partying!! <br />
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I have never had this a party before but thought it would be cute. I had a picture of Jude from each month of his first year and a picture of Abby from each birthday party. Abby really enjoyed looking at how much she had grown:)</div>
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Abby and Micah filling up their candy bags. Instead of favors, I had a small "candy bar". The kids got to fill up their bags with all kinds of goodies.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A true girl...her reaction to jewelry and shoes.</td></tr>
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Yum, the icing is good....</div>
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....and so is the cake!!</div>
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I was pretty impressed with Jude's eating abilities. He had a view crumbs on the belly and mouth, but didn't have anything in his hair.</div>
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Jude really enjoyed opening his presents.</div>
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He loved his presents so much, this was his reaction when I took one away so he could open another one:)</div>
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Yeah, new present!!</div>
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And take it away!!</div>
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His new ride!! A toy that can be pushed now but turns into a tricycle later!</div>
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Abby and Kara all ready to swim!! Yes, this is the mountains and they are outside. Although we missed school Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday for snow, Saturday was beautiful!</div>
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The boys having fun!! Caleb is holding up Micah and Trey is holding up Jake.</div>
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The kids thought it was really neat when Christy put Jude in the water.</div>
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A foam beard in the "hot pool"...AKA: the hot tub.</div>
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So thankful for my gifts.</div>
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So thankful for my gifts </div>
RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-59972018129661940782013-02-28T21:59:00.002-05:002013-02-28T22:47:30.740-05:00Happy Birthday, Jude!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One year ago, our family was blessed with Jude Aaron Jeffrey. Born on leap day amid tornado sirens, your arrival was one for the memory books. But the best part has been the every single day this past year. From the beginning days of life with your newborn smiles and little sighs to your army crawling and belly laughs of today, you bring an abundance of joy to our family. As I reflect on the last year, it is hard to believe that it has been a full year but equally hard to remember life before you.<br />
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So Jude, this is you at age one....<br />
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<li>You are SO happy!! You have an easy smile that brightens your whole face.</li>
<li>It is amazing that at such a young age, your adoration of Abby and Micah is so appearant. You immediately perk up when they enter the room.</li>
<li>You are a mama's boy. You love to hang out with daddy, but when time comes for bed and comforting, you are all about mama--which is a new thing for me. Clearly a reflection of being a stay-at-home-mom:)</li>
<li>You started army crawling at age nine months and can MOVE on our hardwood floors. It is so cute to watch!! Although, you are testing the waters of "normal" crawling.</li>
<li>I love to smell of the top of your head!--every mother understands:) </li>
<li>You bring such a sense of peace to my heart when I hold you.</li>
<li>You love to laugh!</li>
<li> Your absolute FAVORITE activity is bouncing!! Sometimes, we just sit and watch you bounce in your bouncy seat. You grab onto the side of it with both hands and just jump. Even when you are not in your seat, your legs still move like your bouncing:)</li>
<li>You LOVE your pacifier! When you are sleepy, you hold onto it and pump away:)</li>
<li>You are fiesty!! You are definitely the most active of the three children at this age. If you aren't sleepy or asleep, you are moving, grabbing, climbing, grasping, jumping, or doing anything where you can move.</li>
<li>You love to swing at the park---come on warm weather:)</li>
<li>I have enjoyed being your mommy for the past year and look forward to watching you grow, learn, love, and every day in the future!! I thank God for a happy, healthy boy that has blessed our family. We love you so very much. </li>
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-5719207616180222822013-02-04T22:57:00.001-05:002013-02-04T22:58:18.149-05:00Sunday Afternoon Sledding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Jude's First Time in the Snow</div>
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Jackson LOVES the snow...he even went and jumped in the pond!! Brr!!</div>
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Me and my little sidekick</div>
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A boy and his dog...how sweet!</div>
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I think that ride down the hill was a little fast for him...he looks a little wobbly! </div>
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Snow Angel created by Abby</div>
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Micah wanted Daddy to make a snowball for him. Once Josh had formed it, Micah threw it in his face!! :)</div>
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Worn Out!!</div>
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Daddy's turn slide down the hill</div>
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Look at those rosy cheeks!</div>
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A fun day in the snow leads to happy but tired kids!! </div>
Rachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-19022567768081519192013-02-04T13:51:00.000-05:002013-02-04T14:28:14.442-05:00So God Made A Farmer<div style="text-align: center;">
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The unmistakable voice of Paul Harvey soundly described the heart, motivation, and life of the American farmer in last night's Super Bowl commercial for Dodge. The role of agriculture in all of our lives is vital, yet most often forget the person actually laboring to produce the products we all use on a daily basis. <br />
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I had the privilege of being born and raised in rural Kentucky into an agriculture family. The grunts of newborn piglets, tobacco hanging in the barn, the rumble of a tractor, long days of working as a family, and the scent of fresh-turned soil were frequent scenes on the landscape of my childhood. And these traditions ran deep-both of my grandfathers were farmers as well! At a young age, I understood the importance of hard work, family, conserving and protecting the land, the joy of a new birth and the sadness of death, and was able to see the wonders of God first-hand. A child raised on a farm has a perspective of life beyond many adults and those lessons learned in childhood are the foundation of adulthood. My participation in my local FFA chapter at Central Hardin High School sparked a deeper connection with agriculture. My passion for FFA and agriculture inspired me to work diligently to achieve personal goals that I wanted in the FFA. As a result, I was an officer at the chapter, regional, and state level and participated at the national level in competition. Consequently, I was led to major in Agriculture Education at Murray State University. (It is amazing how the Lord works because three weeks after showing up on campus, I met Josh.)<br />
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Although my career choice did not lead me to being a farmer, I chose to teach the youth about the importance of agriculture as an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor. I pray my seven years of teaching led to more students leaving my classroom with a greater respect and understanding of agriculture than entered.<br />
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God has now given me the opportunity to leave my career behind and raise my children full time. My main role as a mom, in conjunction with my husband, is to "bring (my) children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." (Ephesians 6:4) My second goal is to teach them responsibility, a strong work ethic, respect for all things living, the importance of helping those in need, and a strong sense of community--all of which is a direct result of a life in agriculture. Although we are not farmers, Josh's job as an agent for NC Farm Bureau allows us the opportunity to be closely involved with the agriculture community. My background in agriculture education allows me to serve as a member of the Northwest FFA Regional Endowment committee to promote support for local FFA members in the Northwest FFA Region. Although my children will probably not be farmers, my prayer is they are strong members of Christ's church that respect and love all of His creation and understand and respect agriculture.<br />
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Thank you to all those that labor to feed America and thank you to all who support those farmers through various sectors of the agriculture industry. E. M. Tiffany said it best in 1930 when he penned the FFA creed: "I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life and that I can exert an influence in my home and community which will stand solid for my part in that inspiring task."<br />
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"And on the eighth day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said, "I need a caretaker." So God made a farmer.<br />
God said, "I need somebody willing to get up before dawn, milk cows,
work all day in the field, milk cows again, eat supper, then go to town
and stay past midnight at a meeting of the school board." So God made a
farmer.<br />
God said, "I need somebody willing to sit up all night with a newborn
colt and watch it die, then dry his eyes and say,'Maybe next year,' I
need somebody who can shape an ax handle from an ash tree, shoe a horse
with hunk of car tire, who can make a harness out hay wire, feed sacks
and shoe scraps. Who, during planting time and harvest season will
finish his 40-hour week by Tuesday noon and then, paining from tractor
back, put in another 72 hours." So God made the farmer.<br />
God said, "I need somebody strong enough to clear trees and heave
bales, yet gentle enough to yean lambs and wean pigs and tend the
pink-comb pullets, who will stop his mower for an hour to splint the leg
of a meadowlark."<br />
It had to be somebody who'd plow deep and straight and not cut
corners. Somebody to seed, weed, feed, breed, and brake, and disk, and
plow, and plant, and tie the fleece and strain the milk, . Somebody
who'd bale a family together with the soft, strong bonds of sharing, who
would laugh, and then sigh and then reply with smiling eyes when his
son says that he wants to spend his life doing what Dad does. "So God
made a farmer."--Paul Harvey</blockquote>
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-32435786204583765062013-02-01T16:54:00.003-05:002013-02-01T16:55:49.729-05:00Bathtime BuddiesBath time!! Those two words spark elation in children while striking fear in their parents!! The kids love a chance to splash, be naked, play in bubbles and all the other fun things associated with bath time. However, for a parent, it is a lot of work--bathing, rinsing, drying off, putting on lotion, pajama time, and then cleaning up the bathroom. With three kids, it can consume a large portion of the evening. I generally try to streamline the process by bathing two at once. Now Abby likes to give herself a shower (but I still have to rinse her hair) but Jude is now old enough to be in the bathtub with Micah.<br />
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Although I usually am soaked through by the time baths are over, I couldn't help but enjoy bath time the other night with the boys!! Sometimes the days seem really long, but the years are short.<br />
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-83924952355160554462013-02-01T10:44:00.003-05:002013-02-01T10:44:43.145-05:00Only At Our HouseSo most anyone that has known me and Josh for more than five minutes know we have a soft spot for animals. In the past 8 1/2 years of marriage (this is embarrassing), we have had two goats, five fish, ten rabbits (some unfortunately met our dogs), three cats (all ran away from the dogs), and about 45 dogs!! I know!! That number is shocking, but it includes four litters of puppies, several "temporary" dogs that we found new homes for, and several that passed away. Now I love dogs, but my husband is down-right pitiful when he sees a dog or any animal in need of love. When we first moved to Boone, he missed his dogs so much, that we went to the humane society just so he could love on a dog. <br />
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At Christmas, the one dog that has been with us since the beginning, Jackson, came back to North Carolina with us for a brief vacation. He had been at our neighbor's house, but hopped in the car with us without prompting when we stopped by our house in Kentucky. The kids have LOVED having him here. He is a super mellow dog that sleeps the majority of the time. But having a dog means walking a dog. We temporarily live in a condominium complex, so we can't just open the door and let him out. Fortunately, we are the last condo in the complex and we are next to woods were Jackson likes to roam free, sans leash. <br />
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Last night, Josh took him for his last walk before bed and was gone for the usual 15-20 minutes. He came back in and said that Jackson was really spooked during the walk and Josh said he noticed something large in the woods. Now if it were me, I would have just forgotten about it and came in. Not Josh. He felt the need to investigate. So he went back out with a flashlight. <br />
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In the meantime, the two older kids were crying because they overheard Josh say he had seen something. Micah had decided it was either a werewolf or a Big Foot (but he had determined that our woods weren't very "squatchie" enough so it couldn't be a Sasquatch. His favorite show is "Finding Bigfoot" and he is now almost obsessed with Big Foots.) Anyway, as I was trying to calm their fears, a knock sounded at the door. Abby ran to answer it and this is what we saw....<br />
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A MINIATURE HORSE!! See!! Only at our house can we find such strange things. Of course the kids were WILD!!! Abby immediately named her Snowball. Crazy!! But we live in a condo. What were we going to do!! We attempted to call security, we tried to call one of Josh's clients that owns a farm with horses--to no avail on both fronts. Either Josh and I stood outside on the patio with this horse for a little while, hoping we could find someone to take the horse. The kids even moved down to the door so they could look a the horse. (They are so funny!)<br />
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Still trying to contact someone, Josh let go of the horse's halter for literally 10 seconds and that horse bolted and was determined not be captured again. Josh even tried to go find her, but she was gone.<br />
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Of course the moments of elation for Abby quickly turned to sorrow because that horse was gone. The full spectrum of human emotion was experienced by her in one night. It took quite awhile to calm her back down. I don't know what she thought we were going to do with that horse, but she was already making plans in her head. I felt so bad for her. But she <i>was</i> able to capture a picture on her LeapPad that she can look at when she wants. I guess she will tell everyone that she used to have a horse, if only for a short while.<br />
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Most people that live in a condo wouldn't find a horse, but only at our house can we attract these animals!! <br />
RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7210329966119707856.post-89553304635129315522013-01-31T23:23:00.000-05:002013-01-31T23:33:48.339-05:00Paper Bag Skirt<br />
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I love skirts!! They can be paired with a cute pair of sandals, leggings, or boots. I want to make some skirts for myself, but I am nervous to venture into the world of sewing adult-sized clothing. I have seen these paper bag skirt tutorials all over the blogosphere and <i><span style="font-size: large;">really</span></i> want to make one for myself. But first, I decided to make one for Abby. I can work out the kinks and have a better understanding of the pattern. And if I mess up, it is less material to throw away!! So I found this tutorial at <a href="http://www.sewcaroline.com/2011/09/paper-bag-skirt-diy.html" target="_blank">Sew Caroline</a> and adjusted it for Abby.<br />
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Since Abby was at school, I used one of her other skirts as a guide. In general, add four inches to the desired length of a finished skirt. For the width, measure around the largest part of your bottom, divide by two and add 2 inches. Abby's little skirt ended up being 16" in width and 19" in length. Cut out two squares this size. <br />
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I pressed my two squares and then pinned right sides together. Sew two side seams.<br />
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Once side seams are sown, turn down three inches from the top and press. Run a stitch <i><b><span style="font-size: large;">ALMOST</span></b></i> all the way around the skirt. Leave a small opening to run your elastic through. Then measure about 1.5" closer to the top of the skirt and run a stitch all the way around the skirt. This will be the casing for the elastic. (My elastic was 1 inch wide opening was about 1.5". Adjust sizes for the size of the elastic.)<br />
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Place a safety pin on one end of the elastic and feed it through the opening. Work the elastic all the way through the opening. Be careful not to twist the elastic. Sew the two ends of the elastic together using a zigzag stitch (do NOT twist the elastic during this step.)</div>
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Complete the skirt by adding a seam at the bottom of the skirt.</div>
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I decided to make a sash to go with the skirt. I cut a strip of material 3" wide (for a 1 1/2" wide sash) and 50 inches long. (I multiplied the waist measurement by 3 and added two inches. However, I wish I had added 5 -7 inches.) I folded the strip in half (folding right sides in) and pressed a crease. I also cut the ends at an angle. <br />
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So up until this point, I had been working on the skirt for about 30-35 minutes (that is with a 4 year old and an 11 month old who needed a bottle.) But when it came time to turn this sash right-side out, it took almost as much time!! I started with a wooden spoon, but that didn't work too well. So I had to just had to ever-so-slowly pull the right side out. I later discovered that attaching a safety pin and feeding it through the tube would have been the way to go!!<br />
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Once the entire sash is right-side out, close the other end of the sash with a straight stitch, turning the raw edges under. I also pressed the sash down flat. I also thought about attaching the sash to the skirt with a simple stitch, but have neglected to do so.<br />
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Abby liked posing for the pictures. To bad she has Hello Kitty bandaids on her legs and I took pictures in front of a light switch!!<br />
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I also had a little helper during this project. Micah was the official "Pin Putter Upper". He took his job VERY seriously!!<br />
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RachelRachel Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06206775839226093253noreply@blogger.com2