tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016047052750601992012-02-16T17:11:32.506-06:00CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.comBlogger881100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-37594725903522944772011-07-05T16:06:00.000-05:002011-07-05T16:06:04.909-05:00

Go to http://www.vocalpoint.com/mottsfortots  for a free sample while supplies last!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-12734445894996426492011-04-12T18:57:00.000-05:002011-04-12T18:57:23.176-05:00

Here's some fun we had today Ummm....I'm not too sure guys...... Ok, that's better! 

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-81581707156966148632011-01-17T20:32:00.001-06:002011-04-14T14:48:06.876-05:00

Here are my reading selections for 2011 (some are children's - I'm working through what I missed when I was a kid): Fiction:Anne of Green GablesAnne of AvonleaAnne of the IslandAnne of Windy PoplarsSense and SensibilityEmmaMansfield ParkNorthanger Abbey PersuasionLady SusanThe Magician's NephewThe Lion, the Witch and the WardrobeThe Horse and His BoyPrince CaspianThe Voyage of the Dawn

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-9274539412533433042011-01-05T17:25:00.002-06:002011-01-05T17:33:28.671-06:00

I am excited to be in a new year. Shortly after my previous post, our lives took an unexpected turn last year - during which time I did not post to this blog. A number of factors were involved in not writing at the time and now looking back I'm glad for the absence of posts. It's nice to look back on our time in Iowa through the pictures and writings that are here and remember the happiness

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-3883143689444324132010-07-29T11:59:00.002-05:002010-07-29T12:02:52.411-05:00

For all of you homeschoolers out there - go here to enter a free giveaway of the ENTIRE Latin For Children Level A Bundle!!!!! It's worth over $100!!!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-39321843661754100392010-06-17T14:40:00.002-05:002010-06-17T14:45:37.306-05:00

Corn and green bean growth in only 1 week:

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-60525508311036094322010-06-17T14:32:00.007-05:002010-06-17T14:39:48.647-05:00

Here's the growth so far:It's very windy in Iowa:Tomato plants:Cucumbers:Watermelon:

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-13434883739913722942010-06-09T16:53:00.003-05:002010-06-09T23:49:25.368-05:00

I want this (click image to see whole pic):You can find it at here at Pottery Barn KidsIt's insanely expensive. However, thanks to Ana at KnockOff Wood - hopefully Dave will be able to build us one. Someday. Click here to see the plans for the Cubby Media Wall from Ana's site.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-43181745920781679262010-06-09T12:31:00.018-05:002010-06-09T13:18:29.187-05:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-44847187112209524612010-06-09T12:23:00.007-05:002010-06-09T13:18:52.622-05:00

I need to get some even newer photos of the Willster, but for now these will have to do.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-88535787803378100322010-06-09T11:44:00.008-05:002010-06-09T13:19:15.376-05:00

This summer is my first real gardening attempt since we've moved to Iowa. I tried last summer and did get some tomatoes, but due to the pregnancy - I really didn't get a chance to do what I wanted to last year. Sorry it needs to be weeded again...but anyway - Here's this year's crop list:1. Tomatoes - 14 plants2. Sugar Snap Peas - 40 plants (they're planted along this fence, hopefully this

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-79784258429051622802010-02-21T21:58:00.015-06:002010-06-09T13:19:43.590-05:00

Here are some recent lovely shots of the kids (of course messy faces are included):Poor kid...don't worry honey if you keep smiling this big no one will notice that your mom can't cut hair straight....8-)For some reason this was the only one I had of Kailie....

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-42154086308998760842010-02-21T21:45:00.010-06:002010-06-09T13:20:07.212-05:00

Here are the results of some baby shower crafts I've been working on for a shower later this week:The Baby Bootie Mint Holder(made from styrofoam cups)The Baby Washcloth BunniesCompleted Gift Basket(I shrink-wrapped with clear plastic)The Baby Boy Diaper Cake(my first attempt at a diaper cake)In the future I'll try a diaper cake loaded with "stuff" but I think this is really cute and simple just

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-11205157121642939932010-01-15T15:08:00.000-06:002010-01-15T15:09:28.804-06:00

Samaritan Ministries from Samaritan Ministries on Vimeo.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-11758171808143189712010-01-08T16:24:00.015-06:002010-01-08T17:41:31.362-06:00

Well, we have had a busy week to start out 2010!Today is Dave's birthday and we celebrated by ruining his birthday cake and not having his gift from me arrive on time. Sigh...such is life! Thankfully he's a wonderful man who just laughs these things off and appreciates what we tried to do for him anyhow. 8-)The batter shifted all to one end because the baking sheet this disposable pan was

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-16587355661987538682010-01-02T18:56:00.025-06:002010-06-09T13:18:00.463-05:00

As the second half of the year starts we are making some curriculum changes, as I am often want to do. We are switching back to Tapestry of Grace now that Kailie is old enough to read well on her own and complete work independently. We will be beginning with Year 2 Unit 3 which encompasses the time from Jamestown through the establishment of the 13 colonies. We will finish the year with Unit 4

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-6913127837994677662010-01-02T18:37:00.011-06:002010-06-09T13:20:48.839-05:00

Happy 2010 Everyone!In Review:1. Lauren turned 2, Emma turned 6, Will was born, Kailie turned 8 and Abby turned 32. Halloween - we had a Reformation Day party at the church.3. Dave's Mom and sis Krys, and Krys' hubby John all came out to meet Will.4. My parents came out to meet Will.5. Thanksgiving - we had dinner and spent the day with our friends the Lauger's. We also played Settler's of

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-27840172692882234162009-10-19T14:30:00.004-05:002010-06-09T13:21:18.952-05:00

Our 6th child, William David Block, was born at home on October 10th at 8:09 am. He was officially 16 days past his due date and I was definitely starting to wonder if he was ever going to come out! I started having contractions at 4:40 am on the 9th, they continued exactly every hour on the dot for about 5 hours. At around 9:45 they jumped to every 15 minutes but were not as strong...sigh,

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-18115907427925743902009-06-09T19:33:00.026-05:002010-06-09T13:21:41.192-05:00

Here are the (tentative) plans for school this year (note: that means starting next week!)Combined all the kids:Updated 8/3/09Bible/Geography/Missions: Exploring Countries and Cultures from My Father's World - we do not normally purchase Bible curriculum; but it is included in this program which is a study of world geography and people groups/religious beliefs with an emphasis on God's work in

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-19290249880304478302009-06-09T19:13:00.002-05:002009-06-09T19:20:17.809-05:00

I haven't posted in the last month, but that should just make you aware that nothing extraordinary has happened. 8-)Everyone is doing well, is healthy and is enjoying life. My pregnancy is going really well, no hip problems so far this time around! Dave and I just went to NICHE which is the annual homeschooling convention for the state of Iowa. It was a wonderful weekend and the first time

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-76546935173514985962009-05-02T10:50:00.004-05:002010-06-09T13:22:02.430-05:00

Last night Dave was gone for a conference for our church, the kiddos were all sound asleep and I decided that instead of vegging out in front of the TV, I should do something meaningful. So, I baked/cooked for the fam' entirely from scratch. Many of you do this regularly; however, I still struggle with this area of my homemaking duties. I'm learning though! Here's the rundown from last night:

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-22363422318763607902009-05-02T10:47:00.002-05:002009-05-02T10:48:13.474-05:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-89898975116142692612009-04-23T20:40:00.002-05:002009-04-23T21:07:22.206-05:00

Today we went to Menards and purchased the supplies we need to start our garden. I'm hoping that it will go well this year, this is our first time gardening...so we'll see what happens. So far we've only purchased fruits and veggies, but I would like to eventually carve out some nice flower beds in the back as well.Here's what we're planting:1. Tomatoes - lots, we love tomatoes! I also

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-65160597403447781162009-04-17T01:52:00.002-05:002009-04-17T02:03:46.351-05:00

Normally my quest to dominate the germs, dirt, messies...whatever - aka NESTING -really doesn't appear until closer to 34-35 weeks in pregnancy. Prior to this I have other obsessions, usually involving painting or decorating, but not particularly the cleaning bug. Well, today I tackled our kitchen. I started by washing the dishes and doing a load of laundry (laundry is in the kitchen for those

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-46908270192999908092009-04-15T01:09:00.007-05:002010-06-09T13:22:42.799-05:00

We love our house. Well, we love the space and layout and functionality of our house. Some of the decor; however, is not exactly (scratch that....EVEN CLOSE TO) our liking. Case in point: the bathroom. Our home was built in the 50's and I think the tile was original to the house. Here's the before:Unfortunately, I didn't get a shot of the entire bathroom prior to Dave's start of this project -

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-1258094298677757792009-04-14T23:18:00.003-05:002010-06-09T13:23:03.346-05:00

I'll confess that I'm the type of person who LOVES to research ideas about how to do different things (sew, quilt, cook, bake, etc. etc.) but RARELY do I ever put these things into practice. I'll blame it on tiredness, too much other stuff to do, homeschooling, no time alone....you get the idea. I'm trying to put a stop to that and actually DO something when I find an idea I like. How profound

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-61005698772389881042009-04-14T22:07:00.004-05:002009-04-14T22:31:56.352-05:00

Reg. Price4 cans of Pringles: $1.69 each3 cans of Air Wick Room Freshener: $ 2.49 each1 bag of Halls: $1.991 Covergirl Outlast All Day Lipcolor: $ 7.991 CG Smoothwear Conditioning Moisturizer: $ 4.99 Total Value of

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-23698404531174946182009-04-14T21:52:00.020-05:002010-06-09T13:23:36.932-05:00

As promised to our family, here are the pics from Easter morning. The kids all looked beautiful! Apparently Lauren (whom we've taken to calling Lolo btw) wasn't interested in smiling for most of the shots, however....someday I'll get one with ALL of them smiling! (I hope, and maybe then we will also work on them actually sitting up and not looking like they're being eaten by the couch....but I

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-58685329595407054272009-04-13T22:59:00.002-05:002009-04-13T23:01:08.407-05:00

For those of you who have visited my blog in the last week, you may have noticed I keep changing my mind on this blog's appearance. I wanted something cute for Spring, I think I've FINALLY decided on this one. Sorry for all the fuss!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-20883667618580698752009-04-13T21:37:00.004-05:002010-06-09T13:23:56.770-05:00

Go to Classy and Sophisticated for the tutorial on how to make these beautiful bows for your little ones.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-31362155383449932772009-04-13T16:33:00.005-05:002009-04-13T16:38:31.470-05:00

I found this in the sales ad for Walgreens this week. I had never heard of it before and am curious to know what you guys think, apparently it's a pee in the cup type of test (ala pregnancy tests) that will accurately predict the baby's gender:click on image to go to site

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-39114321745250121072009-04-12T19:40:00.007-05:002010-06-09T13:24:15.131-05:00

Here are some books I have read this week or are currently in the process of reading. I highly recommend them all!Cleaning Plain & SimpleLots of tips for cleaning the house, stain removal and making homemade cleansers, plus the cover is adorable. 8-)(sorry, no preview on Amazon....)The Complete Tightwad GazetteIf you haven't read this before, I highly recommend it. I read it a few years ago

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-2768883597592877822009-04-09T22:12:00.002-05:002009-04-09T22:27:11.781-05:00

I went this week on my first planned frugality attack of Target and Walgreens. Here's the rundown on how I did:Target -They had an advertised sale if you buy a Fusion Power razor and a Gillette Men's Shave Gel you would receive a $5 Target giftcard. I had coupons for both the razor and the shave gel from Sunday's papers. I did this promotion three times and here is the end result:Total spent

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-27619605976184306402009-04-04T23:16:00.003-05:002009-04-05T23:14:13.808-05:00

I'm currently interested in all things money-saving, especially when it comes to feeding our large and still growing family. I've been reading some blogs from women who are WAY more skilled in this area than I am and thought you might like to glean from their wisdom as well. 8-)Check out this blog and be amazed at what careful planning and a couple of coupons could do for you and yours......I

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-45035589758321915982009-04-04T19:39:00.002-05:002009-04-04T19:42:58.978-05:00

I have benefited greatly from reading the writing of Crystal Paine, a young Christian wife and mother who runs the website: www.biblicalwomanhood.com I recently found another of her blogs here where she writes about saving money, saving on groceries, budgeting, living frugally etc. Please stop by her site, I'm sure you'll be blessed!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-49853128016915240952009-04-02T19:03:00.002-05:002009-04-02T19:11:47.881-05:00

For the last couple of months I have been somewhat miserable, but it appears that FINALLY(!) that is coming to an end! Yippee!!!My morning sickness is now gone and my energy is returning - although, these toddlers of our's will always be able to outrun me, I'm sure! 8-)The unfortunate piece in all of this is that we apparently traded my tiredness and nausea for another round of the stomach flu

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-44522660496171429752009-02-14T19:15:00.010-06:002010-06-09T13:24:57.443-05:00

Hey all, I haven't posted in almost a month. Mostly I've been sleeping, nauseous, sleeping, nauseous, sleeping, etc. every day. It's CRAZY! I'm always exhausted in the first trimester, but never to this extent. I can't even stay awake to teach Kailie anymore, I do about an hour of school and then we move to the couch where I snooze while she completes some workbook stuff and wakes me if she has a

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-58068454639646050152009-01-22T22:32:00.003-06:002010-06-09T13:25:15.682-05:00

Thank you all for your support and prayers for our family! After all of the tests, everything with Emma is fine and all results were normal. The neurologist said it isn't likely to happen again, she most likely had a drop in blood pressure due to standing too fast or her knees were locked or something like that. Let's hope it doesn't happen again! Since Sunday she's been acting like her

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-52625444309713453872009-01-19T23:57:00.002-06:002009-01-22T22:36:21.269-06:00

Well, I guess we'll be settling for being a 2 car family for awhile. 8-)This one is expected to arrive on or about September 25, 2009!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-23343069181131622142009-01-19T14:50:00.002-06:002009-01-19T14:58:05.421-06:00

Yesterday at church Emma collapsed. We were standing for the singing time and I looked over and saw her completely in the aisle, flat on her back, arms at her sides...no response. I grabbed her hands to get her up but she couldn't sit up and when I pulled her head up her eyes just rolled back into her head. Dave came around the pew and lifted her up, she started to regain consciousness and

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-67064498332208608482009-01-12T17:31:00.008-06:002010-06-09T13:25:40.330-05:00

Well, first let me say thank you to everyone for your prayers and support during our illnesses. Isaac is doing better and the other kids seem fine (for now!). We returned to our schooling after a nice l-o-n-g break for the month of December. Here's a breakdown of Kailie's schedule for this week:2nd GradeHistory/Geography/Bible/Writing:Tapestry of Grace Y1 (see sample of the period we're studying

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-4018939900689455352009-01-09T19:02:00.002-06:002009-01-09T19:05:49.785-06:00

I took Isaac to the MD today, thinking he was also suffering from an ear infection. It turns out that he actually has strep throat and scarlet fever! I didn't even know you could still get scarlet fever these days....sigh. So please offer up some prayers for our little man, he is very sick right now. 8(

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-32793811958163317292009-01-06T20:25:00.001-06:002009-01-06T20:25:55.252-06:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-79332881452737836892009-01-06T20:23:00.002-06:002009-01-06T20:24:02.148-06:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-81847826849032020872009-01-06T20:23:00.001-06:002009-01-06T20:23:23.348-06:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-13686581340647180482009-01-06T20:18:00.001-06:002009-01-06T20:18:53.574-06:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-92033139587120385662009-01-06T17:04:00.001-06:002009-01-06T17:09:15.020-06:00

We had both of our computers breakdown in December....sigh. Now Dave's laptop is working again so I will be able to post somewhat sporadically. We are in the midst of illness, like many of you. Abby was first with a stomach flu right before we left for Illinois for Christmas. Then Lauren got a really bad cold (which she still has.....). Emma started crying in the car on the way to Illinois.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-89870148086147313772008-12-02T21:27:00.002-06:002008-12-02T21:44:14.647-06:00

1. Realized I haven't posted on the blog for almost a month....oops!!! (still dealing with a broken PC though, in my defense!)2. Awoke to the announcement that Emma had vomited in her bed last night twice, "it's ok Mom, I didn't wake you up to tell you. I wanted to let you sleep." uh, that's sweet in theory....3. Proceeded to locate the aforementioned vomit and clean it up. 4. Did 2 days of

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-29399975695579569602008-11-16T23:43:00.002-06:002008-11-17T00:03:07.504-06:00

Feel free to skip these posts. I'm writing them more for me, a reminder of what a mom actually does in a day, to keep me from feeling discouraged when I don't meet my own expectations (let alone anyone else's). Or, feel free to read on.Today (November 16) I:1. Missed church with 3 kiddo's with colds2. Washed, dried (but didn't get put away yet) 6 loads of laundry3. Ran the dishwasher 4

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-27387366815403662132008-11-16T23:23:00.002-06:002008-11-16T23:38:26.454-06:00

Our little Abigail is 2 today! I can't believe it. Unfortunately our main computer is broken right now (with, of course, all of my pics on it!) so I can't put all the snapshots of her life to date on right now. 8-(She's started using her low voice lately, and by low I don't mean quiet. I mean low like a man's voice. She does it alot when she's looking for one of her siblings. Here she is, this

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-80462935586764112052008-11-04T15:32:00.001-06:002008-11-04T15:32:51.199-06:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-80428911544200308932008-11-04T11:02:00.002-06:002008-11-04T11:05:49.283-06:00

Just a friendly reminder to make sure you vote today!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-49482488017003331322008-11-04T09:11:00.003-06:002008-11-04T09:24:55.869-06:00

The following is reprinted from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. I feel it is a great explanation of many of the problems in the present-day Evangelical church as well as a simply stated review of what the 5 Solas are. The Protestant church was built on these doctrines, it is imperative that we know them, believe them and start practicing them if we want to really see the church grow in

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-41497752601583177932008-10-29T11:22:00.001-05:002008-10-29T11:25:00.204-05:00

I am currently in the process of starting another blog: A Living Education (You may click on the link over on the sidebar to visit also). I'm not sure when it will be completely up and running so feel free to visit often, if you are so inclined. 8-) The purpose of that site is to focus on providing our children with a quality, LIVING education. What does that mean exactly? Well, you'll

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-87497837270101337632008-10-29T11:18:00.001-05:002008-10-29T11:22:02.741-05:00

We will be leaving tomorrow A.M. to return home to Zion for Robb's wedding. I hope to post pics from the trip upon our return. 8-) Congrats to Robb and Amy on their big day!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-9123120302934384222008-10-23T18:44:00.000-05:002008-10-23T18:46:15.780-05:00

3rd Party Debate on CSPAN Live Tonight at 9 EST, 8 Central

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-15022411990358944592008-10-21T14:19:00.006-05:002008-10-21T14:51:37.521-05:00

So, here I've been struggling for the past 5 or so YEARS trying to keep up with our ever mounting laundry problem. (Before we moved it was bad because Dave and I both worked full-time and I couldn't do the laundry when I was pregnant - which was pretty much always, since it involved going up and down the stairs which I couldn't do. Now there's just a lot of us with a lot of clothes to keep up

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-41340950592156204842008-10-18T21:04:00.012-05:002008-10-18T21:32:04.060-05:00

Kailie's 7th birthday was last Saturday, 10-11. Due to posting for Lauren's, Emma's, Mom's and Uncle Bill's birthdays all in that same week, I suffered serious birthday-blog overload and thus am late in posting my well-wishes and joyful thankfulness for our precious oldest daughter (and that was a very long sentence....)!Kailie is in 2nd grade this year and doing wonderfully with her schoolwork.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-49098165456631557212008-10-10T20:16:00.003-05:002008-10-10T20:20:36.374-05:00

Today is Uncle Bill's birthday and we here at the Blockhome want to wish him a very BLESSED BIRTHDAY! We are all looking forward greatly to seeing you and Cai at the wedding in a couple of weeks, but we wish we could see you (you too, Cai) more throughout the year...maybe someday. 8-) In the meantime, know you are much loved here by all 7 of us!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-78654276886752759742008-10-09T11:28:00.014-05:002008-10-09T11:58:02.213-05:00

Today Emma turns 5! We are richly blessed daily by Emma's creative and artistic talents, she is a very loving and caring big sister to the younger 3 and best friend to her big sister Kailie! Emma loves to draw, paint, color, sing, dig in the dirt, play with her dolls and cook with Mommy whenever she can. She is truly a beautiful blessing from the Lord to our family. Happy Birthday Emma, we love

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-18057350260621210882008-10-08T15:12:00.007-05:002008-10-08T15:57:11.140-05:00

My mom is celebrating her birthday today and I wish we could be there to celebrate with her. In the last few years we have watched her patiently endure many trials and hardships with her health. Only 3 years ago I stood with my husband in her hospital room watching over her body which had lost all resemblance to the woman I had known all my life. She had been on life support for several weeks and

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-61135847510871774622008-10-07T15:35:00.014-05:002008-10-07T16:07:48.064-05:00

And no this doesn't have anything to do with Dave and I, ha! Kailie is studying American History this year for school and we found this idea in one of her craft books. Basically we were replicating the doll making process for girls who lived during the "Pioneer" era in the US, ala Laura Ingalls Wilder. Enjoy! 1. Take a new pair of men's tube socks and soak in water. 2. Wring out water. 3. Boil

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-43396640097900590762008-10-07T15:16:00.004-05:002008-10-07T15:34:29.539-05:00

We recently attempted to make multicolored leaf shaped sugar cookies in honor of the Fall season....well, the first problem was that I don't actually OWN a leaf shaped cookie cutter (this was news to me of course) the second problem was that we ran out of the red and yellow colors pretty fast and then ended up with just large green blobs of dough by the end. Ha! The cookies still tasted delicious

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-35609743014408100912008-10-07T14:52:00.011-05:002008-10-07T15:15:42.117-05:00

She is her mother's daughter. Emma didn't want to step on "THAT THING!"

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-1442130893277318102008-10-07T14:10:00.019-05:002008-10-07T14:49:56.457-05:00

I'm late on this post. On Sunday we celebrated Lauren's first birthday. This year with her has been full of changes to our family and has brought us tremendous blessings. I hope I never forget the great difficulty and fear Dave and I faced on the day she was born, all the complications and "emergency" decisions. Praise God for His great mercy and provision in those moments, and now here we are a

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-69390367494578173282008-10-04T21:19:00.007-05:002008-10-04T21:55:10.798-05:00

Of late I have been trying to come up with some creative ideas to make our home a little more cozy without spending lots of money, here's what I came up with: This is in our living room next to our couch. I bought the small pumpkin, I found the leaves (the ones in the jar) and 2 fat quarters in my crafty supplies, I found the 2 candles in a closet packed away, the mason jar also in a closet

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-89284422027560718312008-10-04T21:01:00.008-05:002008-10-04T21:57:50.313-05:00

This is my favorite season of the year, I always look forward to this time when the leaves are changing and the colors around us become so fervent and bright. Here are some photos I've taken recently around the outside of our home to celebrate the season.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-50266639410011169552008-10-04T20:16:00.007-05:002008-10-04T21:01:23.227-05:00

I love my husband. After 8 years, 5 children, 6 moves (including 1 out of state) and everything else we've gone through, I just love him more than words can say.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-50313419425714212462008-10-02T12:21:00.002-05:002008-10-02T12:54:14.625-05:00

Here are quotes from the United Nations "Habitat" website: "Recognizing that....World population growth trends which indicate that numbers of mankind in the next 25 years would double, thereby more than doubling the need for food, shelter and all other requirements for life and human dignity which are at the present inadequately met: Rural dispersion exemplified by small scattered settlements and

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-62878061492894769062008-10-01T23:04:00.002-05:002008-10-01T23:41:31.873-05:00

I found this video off another blog I frequently visit. I could not believe what I was hearing! Unfortunately, it is in fact ALL TRUE. Just Google Agenda 21 and see for yourself. Before watching here are some of the statements taken off the report for China's implementation of Agenda 21's policies (you may read the totality of their report here: China Report Agenda 21 )7.19 Population

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-8909089750124146842008-10-01T00:30:00.004-05:002008-10-01T01:45:54.214-05:00

Ok, I was asked to post the reasons that I'm not voting for the GOP on November 4th. Here they are in a nutshell (warning, some of you are really going to get ticked by some of this): 1. I don't believe that having a woman in this position is biblical. Isaiah 3:12My people—infants are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, your guides mislead you and they have swallowed up [

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-40245163055209498492008-09-27T11:52:00.003-05:002008-09-27T11:58:07.985-05:00

Unfortunately this film is not playing anywhere near to me, here in Humboldt...sigh. The closest theater showing it is about 2 hours away. However, many of YOU are near theaters playing it and I am encouraging all of you who can to go and see it and then post a review here on my blog. To those of you back home, this film opened this weekend in Gurnee and Kenosha. You lucky ducks!!!!! 8-) NOTE:

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-29436446835174980462008-09-27T11:05:00.000-05:002008-09-27T11:06:29.727-05:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-83334606126139726552008-09-21T00:10:00.002-05:002008-09-21T00:17:32.253-05:00

I believe that voting for "the lesser of two evils" is still evil. Instead of listing all of the many reasons why I will NOT be voting for the Republican party (and of course you know that the Democratic ticket is never in my consideration....) in November, I submit to you the link above. Check out this third party candidate, if you read their platform you will see what my reasons are for

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-56327470375969064422008-09-10T19:40:00.007-05:002008-09-14T18:28:42.537-05:00

Assignment: This would be a good week to tell about your worst struggles with a lifestyle of homeschooling. Tell about something you’ve struggled with and how God’s mercies gave us the strength to get past it. Also, share any curriculum/homeschool methods that have been a relief to you, i.e., a particular Teacher’s Manual or Homeschooling method that’s been easier for your family. Talk about how

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-3165276225231210702008-09-06T01:00:00.006-05:002008-09-06T01:15:55.872-05:00

Here are the shots from our first day of school (which was actually Tuesday). Emma needed a backpack for Pre-school so we took pictures of Kailie with hers as well. 8-) Isaac was being Buzz of course! Even Abby did some schoolwork!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-3372973794718279822008-09-06T00:45:00.004-05:002008-09-06T01:19:11.198-05:00

Kailie's memory verse for this week is: "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life." Here she is writing her verse, we also decorated candles for the table with the words "Jesus Light of the World". We also made a frame to go around her lightswitch in her bedroom but I don't have the photo.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-59892447016062326092008-09-06T00:30:00.005-05:002008-09-06T00:43:18.110-05:00

Today our little man turns 3!!! Happy Birthday Isaac, we love you so much! This is his most recent impressive achievement. I blogged about it already but here's the picture. At 2 he could put this puzzle together alone and he always does it just like this shot which means the US is always upside down to him....I think he's a genius....IMHO that is! ha!Could you be more adorable? This is what

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-50675975551325625272008-09-05T23:54:00.012-05:002008-09-10T22:21:01.111-05:00

This week we studied the North American Indians and are reading Squanto: Friend of the Pilgrims. Here are the shots of our various history projects: Kailie went hunting for tee-pee sticks in the backyard:She painted them to finish them off:Cutting out the strips for the base.... Forming the structure..... And here's the finished wigwam (with a "fully functioning" smokestack)Here is the replica

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-83123523597186899012008-09-05T23:43:00.004-05:002008-09-06T00:42:40.194-05:00

Lately Lauren's little personality has been blossoming in spades! Here are some shots from the other night where she was goofing off for Mom and Dad. I love her kissy faces.

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-25711175669679037582008-09-05T23:32:00.004-05:002008-09-06T00:43:00.439-05:00

Kailie recently found this Buzz Lightyear costume at a garage sale we stopped by and told me "That's for Isaac!". Needless to say Isaac is ecstaticly embracing his "outer space man" costume multiple times per day! I especially love the second photo with the closed eyes and dreamlike state....ahhh, Buzz...we love you!

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-11282723808452844352008-09-05T22:56:00.003-05:002008-09-06T00:42:17.875-05:00

We have had a great first week of school this year! We spent time this week learning about Christ as the Light of the World, studying the North American Indian tribes, making our own tee-pees and a wigwam, memorizing the locations of the 50 states via puzzles, re-visiting the Jamestown settlement, reading a variety of delicious literature, learning about the universe and the stars and sun...and

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-90321619937579876462008-09-03T14:07:00.003-05:002008-09-03T14:08:37.967-05:00

Thanks to those of you who have notified me that my comments section is faulty....who knows why???? I'm working on it but all my settings are right.....anyway, hopefully it will fix itself and I can hear all of your lovely thoughts. 8-)

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-32820579240465402942008-09-02T22:43:00.007-05:002008-09-05T18:33:08.542-05:00

Assignment: Take time this week to write about YOU and your feelings of trials and triumphs with homeschooling. Touch on when you first heard about the concept of home schooling and whether you tip-toed into the idea or just jumped in and never looked back. Share your schooling as a child and how you compare it to what your goals are for your children.Hmm...well, in all honesty my first thoughts

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-33293465673324171542008-08-31T21:45:00.003-05:002008-08-31T21:53:22.193-05:00

I recently found this link and joined this group of homeschool mom's who will be doing weekly Bible-based lessons together throughout this schoolyear. The purpose of this group is to encourage one another as we grow in knowledge together. What a blessing to homeschool at this time in history, when so often we live in areas where we are not surrounded by a multitude of other homeschooling families

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-20559089933934670862008-08-31T17:40:00.005-05:002008-09-05T18:33:27.070-05:00

I found this video very interesting and just added another reason to my ever growing list of reasons to continue homeschooling our children. This is footage from the video "It's Elementary" which is used throughout elementary schools in the United States to "educate" our children on the topic of homosexuality. We are so fortunate that we serve a patient God.....http://www.massresistance.org/

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-74101860753472579622008-08-29T21:10:00.000-05:002008-08-29T21:26:39.689-05:00

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-801604705275060199.post-19453593185022069682008-08-29T21:06:00.000-05:002008-08-29T21:09:53.463-05:00

To all who have found me here on Blogger, WELCOME and I'm happy to see you've arrived safely! My old blog on Wordpress was giving me some problems so here I am in my new home. I hope to post pics soon so keep checking back! 8-)

CarynBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13149868986412907834noreply@blogger.com0