Status Update ...

... Mr.B is on his way home from a business trip.  Yesterday, he phoned me from the Godiva Chocolate store front to inquire about which boxes of chocolates he should bring home.  He also notified me that he was able to find one of AB's favorite childhood treats, which we'll be sending him for his upcoming birthday.

Are you wondering why I'd find this to be something worthwhile to post about?  Well, it's because when one moves away from the conveniences of a large city to the isolation of the Montana prairie, it doesn't take much to get excited.

A Dusting ...

This is the sight we saw as we gazed out the window yesterday morning.  Our 1st snow of the season - isn't it beautiful? 

Oldest Man In the U.S.

I am sure many of you saw this ( http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100921/ap_on_re_us/us_world_s_oldest_man ) article on the yahoo news today. If you didn't, it is worth a "click" and short read. The gentleman pictured at right is named Walter Breuning. He was born in 1898, that makes him 114 years old.

As I read this story, I thought of Mr. B's wonderful grandmother who as born in 1912. I also thought of all the history Mr. Breuning and Granny, as we all liked to call Mr. B's grandmother, experienced through out their lives.

I always enjoyed visits with Mr. B's Granny, because she always had so many first hand accounts of history to tell. She was also eager to share not only the events but also the mood and thoughts of her generation and culture during the many changes she witnessed. Sometimes I think I garnished more from her, regarding 20th century history, than from all the stacks of history books I've read.

Since I lived a significant portion of my childhood with my own grandmother, who was 60 years my senior, I've always held our older generations in high esteem. Many of them have a wisdom, a hind sight, and of course experiences that all of us could learn from, if we'd only allow them teach us.

If you have an elder in your family or neighborhood, I urge you to spend some time with them. I promise as they share their life's history and perspective, you will be abundantly blessed with a wealth of knowledge and information you never expected to receive.

I've noticed that I have some new followers ...

And I just wanted to say thank you for choosing to follow my blog. Knowing that there are literally millions of blogs out in blogland, I know I am truly blessed that you all would choose to spend time in my little corner of the world. It is my prayer that you will be blessed and uplifted whenever you stop by for a visit.

Again, thank you ...
Mrs.B

House Hunting

We found this home. Although it needs some updating and remodeling, we love the floor plan, secluded location and the view of more than 100 acres of ranch land from the back porch.
The home was being sold through a short sale, and from all indications, it looked as if the sale would go through. Last month we received a call from our realtor who informed us that the owner's mortgage company is now strongly considering foreclosure and there is only a 10 - 15% chance they will proceed with the sale.

We've been house hunting in this area for more than 15 months. In all that time we've looked at only 5 possibilities. This home was #4. Mr. B has looked at a 5th home since receiving the bad news on house #4 - but like the first 3 homes, he doesn't think it will fit our needs/desires.

Sometimes, I think that when others peek into my world through this blog, they walk away with the image that our life is stress-free or that we appear to really "have it all together" - especially since I am not one who likes to bemoan or dwell upon every problem or challenge that arises in our family's life. In all reality, our lives aren't any easier than anyone else's. Mr. B has worked in another state, more than 1,500 miles away from us, for more than 13 months. Although he has had some occasional 3-4 day visits home during the past year, a separation of this magnitude presents all sorts of challenges for one's marriage and family. When he accepted his job transfer, we never dreamed finding another home would be so incredibly challenging.

In today's economic climate, with hundred's of thousands of job losses every month, including lay-offs within Mr.B's own company, I am very grateful that Mr.B continues to be employed. I do not desire his return home if that includes a job loss. Actually, we don't want Mr.B to come home at all. We want to join Mr.B. That's the reason he took this job transfer. Our family wants to live in an agricultural and rural area. We want to live in a cooler climate where summertime air conditioning is not a necessity. We want to have enough land to grow a larger garden and raise more than just chickens and/or rabbits.

I don't know why our move is being hindered, but I continue to trust in the Lord's timing and in His plans and desires for our family. I continue to praise Him for the provision He provides our family.

Psalms 37:3-5, "Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."

No, I didn't disappear ...

I've just been SOOOO extremely busy. Dad and I have almost finished the interior remodeling of our home. We have done an extensive amount of work and I never imagined that our little house could be so nice. I must also send out a hearty thank you to Mrs. A and Mrs. P. These lovely ladies came out and pitched in with some of the painting. They are such a blessing in my life and I am so thankful to the Lord for bringing them to me.
As soon as our weather clears up (we're enjoying quite a bit of rain this week), we will begin working on the outside - painting the outside of the house, adding additional shutters and painting the out buildings.
Not only have we been incredibly busy, but our internet has also been down for a couple weeks - not that I really noticed ... I didn't have any time to devote to the computer.
We enjoyed a lovely Thanksgiving. Dad was here and this was the first holiday I've spent with him since I was 8 years old. AB was able to come home. We missed BT and JP. BT just couldn't get away and JP left a week earlier for the U.S. Navy Recruit Training. If you all think of him, please offer up a prayer on his behalf.
It was such a blessing to log in this evening and have messages of prayers from a few of my readers. I look forward to sharing with you all again soon.
As we've been working on our home and improving the interior, I've been thinking about the changes God makes in our lives when we accept Him as our Saviour. Like the improvements we've been doing here around the house, God works within our hearts. Prior to painting a room, I've taken a considerable amount of time to prepare the room for new paint. I first clear out all the furniture and obstacles that could get in my way and keep me from doing a good job. I then dust/wash the walls. Next I patch/repair any holes or cracks and wait for the wall compound/caulk to cure. Then, I paint on a coat of primer so the new wall color will be a pure or true match to the sample color I selected. Finally, to achieve a uniform color and professional quality I add a second coat of paint.
Like the above process, we must turn away from sin so God will have plenty of room to work within us. We must also allow Him to prepare our hearts for the changes He wants to make. We must allow Him to help us forgive others and heal the broken areas of our lives, akin to patching holes or cracks in an old wall. Like painting a coat of primer prior to painting on the color, we must allow God to create a blank and clean surface within our hearts before seeing significant changes. When we submit and allow God to prepare our hearts, that's when we will see God's hand forming us into what He has created us to be. Yes, the preparation process can be time consuming, but good prep work is the secret to a professional finish. The last time I checked, God is a professional.
Blessings to you and yours,
Mrs. B

Brothers

The boys, AB, BT & JP had an OUTSTANDING time in New York City this week. They enjoyed the Statue of Liberty, a Broadway Play and everything in between. They ate everywhere from the hot dog vendors on the street to the best Italian restaurant in Little Italy. They rode on buses, subways and in taxis.
Words will never express the joy in my heart in seeing these guys not only being brothers but becoming friends as well.
During supper this evening JP commented, "New York was great but, man, there's no food like southern food. This is really good mom." Now, I ask you ... how's that for boy who knows how to please his southern mama?

Samson Update

Although JP does not like to have his picture taken nor likes for me to blog about him, he has asked me several times lately if I've posted any updates regarding his little Samson. Well, this post is for JP ... as you can see his little "girl" is rapidly growing up. She has learned to play fetch and obeys the commands "sit", "outside", "come", "find your toy", "let's take a bath" and "let's go bye-bye".

It is really cute to watch JP interact with his baby. He is so affectionate and patient with her. Each time she masters something new, his face beams with pride. If his interaction with Samson is any indication of how he'll interact with his own children, when he has them, I think he'll be a wonderful father.

A New Dress

OG has been reading the "Little House" books by Mrs. Laura Ingals Wilder. She absolutely LOVES them. (I remember when I was a girl and loved them too... ). OG requested a prairie dress for her birthday gift this year. With our kitchen remodel, travel schedule, etc. I just didn't have time to sew one myself. A while back I "stumbled" upon "As Lillies Sewing" (http://www.asliliessewing.com/) and decided to have the prairie dress made. Oh! I cannot begin to express how impressed I am with Miss Sarah's professionalism and quality of the garment's construction. If you ever find a need for new modest clothing for yourself or your daughters, I highly recommend As Lillies Sewing. I am sure you will be as pleased as we are.

Here's a few photos of OG modeling her new prairie dress. Dress, Pinafore, Sunbonnet

Dress & Pinafore

Dress for church on Sunday

Weathering Out

I was planning to post Part 2 of my article "Godly Stewardship" this weekend. However, it appears that our Lord has some other plans. Hurricane Ike is scheduled to make landfall this weekend. Although we are not close enough to be affected by the storm surge, dramatic flooding, and exceedingly high winds, we do expect some wind, a significant amount of rain, and a loss of electricity (especially since it seems as if we loose electricity everytime drops of water fall from the sky).

I realize that there are many folks out there who may be very frightened of this coming storm. If so, please know that we pray for your safety and peace of mind. We can't stop the storm outside, but our Lord can stop the storm of fear that rages within.

I am actually looking forward to the silence that comes from the absent buzz that one only notices when the electricity goes out. I am looking forward to eating supper by oil lamp. I am looking forward to a marathon game of Monopoly and maybe a couple rounds of Scrabble. I am looking forward to reading aloud to the children. I am looking forward to finishing up a crochet project. I am looking forward to indoor camping!!

So, when all settles back into routine (and the electricity will once again power this computer), I'll be back with "Godly Stewardship, Part 2". See you in a few days ...

Grown Children & Home Cooking

Today, AB phoned to wish me a happy birthday (such a sweet boy) and check to see if I received the gifts, two books, he sent my way. I've received one, Amish Society by John A. Hostetler, but still waiting on the mailman for the other.

During the course of our conversation, I inquired as to whether he's peeked into the blog lately - as it's a good way for those who live far away to keep up with things around here. His response was, "No". So, I began telling him about the updates I've posted since his last peek. Well, I, of course, went over our two week planned supper menu. Even though his favorite, spaghetti, isn't on the list, he still began drooling. (AB says mom's cooking is the best part of visiting home.) He got really excited about the tuna casserole and commented, "I haven't had tuna casserole in YEARS". So, tomorrow evening when I cook the tuna casserole, I'll post the recipe with a photo, or maybe two, so he can prepare it anytime he gets a hankering for it (hankering is southern for a craving).

In the above photo, he's preparing hamburgers and hot dogs for the cookout we had while visiting grandpa's cabin last summer. I am proud to say that he's turned out to be quite the cook. I really miss him and his lovely wife, KM. I wish they lived closer to us. I anxiously await Christmas time for their visit home.

THE GREAT SNAKE HUNTER...

This is Alice. The kidos are giving her a good rub (one of her favorite things) because of the terrific job she has been doing. At our home, everyone & every animal has a job. Besides guarding our tiny blue house, playing with the children, protecting the girls from opossums & raccoons, she is also our official snake hunter.
As of late, she's been doing a terrific job. Above is a photo of the second snake she's caught during the past month! Mr. B says it isn't poisonous. That means nothing to me ... I don't like snakes - if the opportunity presents it's self, they eat the girls' eggs AND chicks. (yeah, I know ... I need to put some vinegar and salt on those weeds growing through the walk.)

I'm Back!!

Several weeks ago, I sustained an injury and was not as mobile as I usually am. Thus, I got behind on several of my more physically demanding chores. This past week, I felt much better and have been healing up so nice that I decided it was time to get caught up on some of the things I had been forced to neglect. Of course, since I was working on other things I did not have the time to keep my blog updated. Well, I am caught up, for now, and back on-line. I've had several things rolling around in my head and I hope my upcoming entries will be a blessing to you.
May God Abundantly Bless You,
Mrs. B

The "Good News" in the News

Last week when we traveled to a small mid-west town for a family funeral, I had an opportunity to read the local newspaper. This small local newspaper contained a question and answer column by Dr. James Dobson of Focus on the Family. In the same newspaper I also read an article addressing teen aged kissing and boundaries written from a Biblical perspective. In the Around Town section, I found numerous notices for summer time Vacation Bible School activities that will be going on all summer.

I was blessed with the refreshing realization that the core of small town America is still grounded in conservative, Biblical principles. Despite what mainstream media portrays, many communities in our nation still carry the light of Jesus Christ. If you happen into any small towns during your summer vacation travels, pick up a local newspaper and enjoy a fresh perspective.

Americans & Generosity

Today I read an article by, syndicated columnist, Star Parker about America's generosity to the rest of the world. The numbers are absolutely astonishing. Despite all the negative news media about how much the rest of the world hates America, we are by far the world leader in giving. Here are a few 2006 (the most recently compiled) stats from her article ...

Aid From America to other Countries

Official U.S. Government Contributions 23.5 billion
Private Philanthropy Contributions 34.8 billion (that's 11.3 billion more than our own government!)
Religious Organizations Contributions 8.8 billion
Private Individual to Private Individual Contributions in other countries 62.7 billion

America's 2006 total aid to the rest of the world was 129.8 billion! We are the MOST GENEROUS nation on the planet. We rank #1 in giving.
The United Kingdom ranks #2 at only 20.7 billion - that number includes ALL their government, philanthropic, religious organizations and private individual to private individual added together.

If you'd like to read Ms. Parker's complete article, please click here http://www.onenewsnow.com/Perspectives/Default.aspx?id=130686

Information such as this makes it very difficult for me to belive that our nation is as hated by the rest of the world as our own media protrays.

Simple Living

What do the words simple living bring to your mind? Do you envision lounging upon a sunny beach with a cold glass of lemonade smelling the sea air and listening to the crashing waves, or maybe you see yourself gently rocking in a porch swing sipping a cup of mint tea while watching butterflies flutter from flower to flower? In my world lounging on a beach or rocking in the porch swing is called resting.

For me, simple living is, but not necessarily limited to, recognizing the gifts in everyday life by:

-eliminating non-productive busy-ness
-teaching our children where their food comes from by growing/raising/hunting it ourselves
-educating our children in a manner that is consistent with our spirituality/morals/values
-taking time to write a thank you note
-lovingly making/creating handmade gifts
-appreciating the smell of coming rain
-working to be frugal
-being a full-time keeper of my home
-encouraging others
-being thankful for our health, and our provision
-preparing and taking meals with my family daily
-keeping my mind free from clutter that may prevent me from hearing from God
-recognizing and appreciating that more than one pair of shoes or change of clothing, a home and food everyday is abundance
-being in the audience or bleachers when my children are performing or competing
-knowing that I have a savior, Jesus Christ, who has given me a hope and an eternal future

What do the words "Simple Living" mean to you?

Reflections

This past week some of our family said, "Goodbye" while others said, "We'll see you later" to a very dear loved one. I so very much wish I could report that every member of our family could have said, "We'll see you later", but as of right now that is not the case.

My husband's beloved grandmother, Granny, went home to be with the Lord. Granny spent 94 1/2 years here. Her life was richly blessed by many, many experiences and with the Lord as her guide, she triumphed through many, many challenges.

Granny grew up in an era very different from ours. She was born and raised on a rural mid-western farm. By the time she was 12 years old she was her mother's right hand. At only 12 she was able to cook, clean, do laundry (by hand), sew, care for children and perform other various farm chores as well as any adult. At the age of 14 she met and, with her father's permission, married her husband of 24 years. He died in an auto accident when she was only 38. At age 16 Granny had a beautiful daughter and at age 18 gave birth to another - these two girls would be her only children.

Granny experienced a vast amount of life. As a young girl transportation consisted of a horse and buggy, at the time of her exit she owned an automobile that would go more than 120 miles per hour. As a child and young adult the toilet consisted of an outhouse several hundred feet away from the main house. At the time of her exit, indoor bathrooms, complete with flushing toilets & hot water supplied showers & whirlpool tubs, were standard in homes. When Granny was a girl airplanes were still being perfected, but by the time she departed us, not only could they fly around the world, some could fly into outer space. As a young woman, business was done with shorthand, manual typewriters and accounting was calculated by the brain with paper and a pencil. By the time she left us, we had computers to do the math and run the businesses. In the era of Granny's youth most folks communicated through the mail system, telegrams, and only the upper folks had party-line telephones. She lived long enough to see fiber optic instant messaging and multiple wireless telephones in the same house! In her youth, the majority of rural residents lived without electricity. In her lifetime she watched more than 99% of our nation connect to the "grid". As a child her family sowed, planted, and reaped a harvest step by step, hand by hand. Today's farms are managed using huge multi-tasking machines that can do a week's worth of manual labor in 1/2 a day.

She grew up during World War I and the roaring twenties; began a family during the Great Depression; lost loved ones and friends during World War II and the Korean War; during the "good ole days" of the 50's she mourned the losses of her husband, her own mother, and a granddaughter; in disbelief she watched the youth of the 60's "turn on and tune out" with illegal drugs. During the 70's she prayed to God while her grandson fought in Vietnam and praised His name when he came home and once again mourned as she lost a great-granddaughter; on her living room television she watched the Berlin wall come down in 1989; and saw personal desktop computers move into more than 70% of all homes in the 1990's and cried a river of tears over the loss of her younger daughter. She ushered in, not only a new century but a new millennium; celebrated with joy the birth of a great-grandchild on her own birthday and then had to mourn the loss of her eldest daughter.

Throughout her lifetime she had relationships with 8 generations of her family. Her life was filled with smiles, tears and amazement. Upon her departure she left her older sister, aged 96, four grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 3 great, great-grandchildren.

Her older sister once told me that Granny was always an obedient child. Granny said the same about her older sister. Ephesians 6:2-3 (KJV) says, "Honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with a promise; that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long upon the earth." I think Granny was a living testimony to this promise from God.

I'll see her later ...

Busy Work Day

I usually try to schedule our time so that we do not have to work on Saturday. Sunday is our Sabbath and therefore, aside from feeding the animals, we never work on Sundays. However, we had so many things come up this past week, we weren't able to avoid doing yard work today. Our yard maintenance is JP's responsibility. Today I decided to reward his consistently obedient and helpful attitude by mowing the grass while he did the edging. With us working together as a team we finished up in about 4 hours. This afforded us enough time reconfigure our outside walkway to the front door, something I've been contemplating for a while. It looks SOOOO much better and I am sure my husband will be very pleased with the results when he gets home - I know I am happy with the results. Now, umm about the back porch .....
Yesterday, EJ asked if we could play a game of kickball today. I told him we would and purposed in my mind to find the time to play outside with the children. When our yard work was completed and after a glass of cold water, we set up the bases (a couple 5 gal. bucket lids) and played for almost an hour. OG commented on how much fun it was to play kickball with mom. EJ, of course, didn't want to stop - he never does. Because I have a tendency to work, work, work, I am pleased that I took some time out for play.

Well, I must now sign off so I can get some supper on the table ...