tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25095008341475729562024-03-13T14:26:33.593-05:00Life With A Whole Lot of GraceSharing Life & Tips from our Jesus Loving, Country Living, Homeschooling, Hog Hunting Family of 6Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger99125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-18277933070346632792017-01-18T11:13:00.000-06:002017-01-18T11:19:02.852-06:00ProCare Cool Mist Humidifier<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">In my latest VoxBox from Influenster, I received the WalMart</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">ProCare Cool Mist Humidifier</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">complimentary, for testing and reviewing purposes. I admit, I was a little less than excited, thinking this would be like every other humidifier I've owned or used in the past. Let me willingly eat crow on that one because this one is the rock star of them all!</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ShUU7s4H7hc/WH-hxHiW30I/AAAAAAAABEo/fLixxpiAQwY7RHTaFQ2Ti309nigZwn46gCEw/s1600/ProCare1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ShUU7s4H7hc/WH-hxHiW30I/AAAAAAAABEo/fLixxpiAQwY7RHTaFQ2Ti309nigZwn46gCEw/s1600/ProCare1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<li><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">First, it doesn't look like the older, bulky type of humidifier, which makes it easier on the eyes!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Next, it's so much easier and convenient to us, completely mess free. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Most appealing to me, it doesn't shoot out a huge puff of steam. Instead, it works and looks just like a fan, while still pumping that moisture into the room!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">This is so quiet, you don't even know it's on unless you get up close!</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Another plus is that it works all day and night without needing a refill. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>So if you're in the market-grab this one from WalMart! The price is super reasonable and it's a great product. </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fkdNEH5uAh0/WH-hvB3URFI/AAAAAAAABEk/edvr97S85vIAbIYAAuY9ooCMmQTPTohqACLcB/s1600/ProCare3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fkdNEH5uAh0/WH-hvB3URFI/AAAAAAAABEk/edvr97S85vIAbIYAAuY9ooCMmQTPTohqACLcB/s1600/ProCare3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>All other humidifiers please step aside! This one's a winner!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>Do you want to receive all kinds of great items for free to test and review? Join Influenster today through the following link:</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #64b48c; display: block; font-family: "Open Sans", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: 600; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; outline: none; padding: 5px 0px 0px; text-transform: lowercase; transition: color 0.1s ease; vertical-align: baseline;">www.influenster.com/r/1859638</a></div>
whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-7726818923056265532017-01-06T21:15:00.000-06:002017-01-06T21:15:01.710-06:00Mucinex Fast Max Review<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Have you heard of Smiley360 yet? I joined recently and have already received several full size products to test and review. So...</span></h2>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Yes-It's Legit</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Yes-It's Free</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Of Course-It's Fun</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The more you review, the more points you earn, and the more opportunity you get to try new products for free. Easy Peasy.</span></div>
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I recently received a full size bottle of Mucinex Fast Max for free to test and review. The funny, not funny, about this was that I got a horrible cold THE DAY after I received this! While I had no time to be down and really wished not to be sick, it did give me a great opportunity to test this product. I wasn't just sick, I was down and out, aches and pains, felt like I was hit by a truck, running fever kind of sick with a horrible dose of chest congestions. So try the new medicine I did....<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>PROS</u></b></span><br />
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Did have that great Mucinex famous effect on the chest congestion<br />
Did help lessen my fever and aches<br />
Can take every 4 hours, which is great when you feel like death warmed over<br />
The dosing cup is a different, and really handy shape<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>CONS</u></b></span><br />
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It obviously can't quite cure like a good dose of antibiotics and steroids<br />
The taste....but it wouldn't be medication if it tasted good<br />
The minty flavor didn't do much from me, except add to the above comment<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>FINAL WORD</u></b></span><br />
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I'd buy this and recommend it, especially if your cold and chest congestion are coupled with aches and pains and a fever. This is a good, multi focused medication from a trusted brand. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I don't however, hope you need it. This last sickness was a complete doozie. Hope I've met my quota for illness for the next 5 years with that one! </i></span></div>
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<br />whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-43369087845474559872015-10-05T10:00:00.000-05:002015-10-05T10:00:28.733-05:00So You Think You Want To Homeschool<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Ok....so perhaps this post title has a little dramatic flair! Forgive me and read right past it for some practical help. Many friends and acquaintances have contacted me over time with the same types of questions. To make it easier to reference, share, and pass along, I've created this post full of reasonable, matter-of-fact, solid advice that I hope will help someone along their way! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>So many of us homeschool. </strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>For many different reasons. </strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>In so many different ways.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>That alone probably sums up most of the following information. But since you're probably expecting more details, I'll start at the beginning....</strong></span></div>
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LEGAL REQUIREMENTS </h2>
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Let's go ahead and get this detail out of the way. Although it may seem intimidating, with a little planning and record keeping, it's actually the easiest part of the job for me. </div>
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<strong>First Year: </strong>It's as simple as submitting an initial application with the state, basically notifying them that you will be homeschooling your child/children. This is done through the Department of Education and is as simple as providing your family's information and the birth certificates of your children. This can all be done online <strong><em><a href="http://www.louisianabelieves.com/schools/home-study" target="_blank">HERE</a></em></strong>. Then you wait for your notice of approval. Easy-peasy!</div>
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<strong>Second Year</strong>: It gets a little more detailed. Once again, you submit an application, this time for renewal. More information and documentation is required. Please don't let that intimidate you-it's really an easy process. If you are educating your children with acceptable resources and keeping record of their work (including the work itself), these requirements will be nothing more than providing requested information. <strong><em><a href="http://www.louisianabelieves.com/docs/default-source/school-choice/guidelines---bese-approved-home-study-program.pdf?sfvrsn=12" target="_blank">HERE</a></em></strong> you will find expected responsibilities (and freedoms) as your child's educator....right from the DOE itself. </div>
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<strong>Disclaimer: We reside in the state of Louisiana and the information shared here is for fellow residents. As homeschool laws and requirements vary from state to state, be sure to research your home state for the legalities.</strong></div>
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QUALIFICATIONS</h2>
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You DO NOT have to have a college degree or be certified to teach your own children. Common sense is that if you yourself struggle with learning, it's probably a good idea to look further into your decision to homeschool. I'm not saying it can't be done if that's your situation, just that I'm not familiar with your options or resources available. I am personally a student at heart and learning has always come easily and joyfully for me. You will know if you're equipped to teach your child. You will know if God is calling you into the ministry of leading your children in this huge area of their lives. It was a journey for me to get to the starting point, as it has been for so many other homeschool Mom's. So often it starts with a quiet whisper to your heart and a strong desire to learn more about this way of family life. I love seeing the journey begin and come to fruition in others. Then begins the journey of Homeschool itself. </div>
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With that being said, I will be the first to tell you....homeschool is NOT an easy road to travel. It is so very worth it, a beautifully messy journey, and full of good and not so good days. It is truly a gift, a ministry, and full of a lot of easy AND hard work. It IS a full time job. I wouldn't have it any other way! I do however, always want inquiring minds to understand this. I would never want one to believe that this is an easy way out or that anyone can do it. I'm no better than the Public School Parent, the Veteran Homeschooler, or the Mom that wants to homeschool her children but can't. I'm simply, imperfectly obedient to God's call on my life and so very thankful for His grace where I fall short. </div>
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CIRRICULUM</h2>
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This is really the question of all questions. You will easily discover that you can spend hour upon hour researching this subject and not even begin to discover what resources are out there. Combine that with the fact that every child is different and you'll find an answer that I simply cannot provide for you. What I can do is share some of the basics that I've learned along the way. I've found that a good starting place in the curriculum hunt is to look first into different homeschool methods. The beauty of homeschool is that you decide the approach, curriculum, and schedule that best fits your family and meets the needs of your learners. The list below is only a starting point, as there are really no set rules in how and what avenues you choose.</div>
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Traditional</h3>
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DVD/Online Classes</h3>
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Classical</h3>
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Charlotte Mason</h3>
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Eclectic</h3>
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Unit Studies</h3>
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If anything, the above list eliminated many curriculum options from my personal search. Still, that was a valuable step. The choices of curriculum seem endless and there are so many good options out there. Many, if not most, families choose to piece their curriculum together. We do use a set curriculum for the most part. For those interested, we order our books and resources primarily <strong><em><a href="http://shopchristianliberty.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a></em></strong>. What I love about this site is I'm able to use it as a sound guideline while still incorporating more than one publisher. </div>
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OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES</h2>
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I guess I must address that dreaded catch phrase 'Socialization'. I'll save us all some time here and refer you to the many online articles, blog posts, and resources regarding our children's growth outside of books and learning. Is this important? Of course. Another value of homeschool is guiding the growth and development of the <em><strong>whole</strong></em> child, not just their education. In our home, we are busier now than we ever were before homeschool. I just don't believe it takes a formal school classroom environment to prepare my children for real life. I do however think there are important things that need to be learned outside of the home. And trust me when I tell you there are so many ways to fill in those 'gaps'. Some of many options include....</div>
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Church Activities</h3>
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Extracurricular Activities</h3>
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Sports</h3>
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Homeschool Groups</h3>
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Homeschool Co-Ops (This is our first year in a co-op and it's absolutely amazing)</h3>
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Family & Friend Get Togethers</h3>
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AFTER THE DECISION</h2>
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We're presently in our 3rd year of homeschool. It took us about a year to 'decompress' from the conventional school atmosphere. If there's anything I've learned, it's that no year will be the same. Each child, each season of life, and each grade level brings new joys and adventures. I grow and learn right alongside these kids....in ways far beyond books and teaching. Homeschool brings out the best and the 'not so best' in myself and my small people. The gift is that each shortcoming or challenge we confront is recognizable, dealt with, and worked out. As a parent and the teacher of my children, I can't think of a better pro-active approach. I am grateful and so very blessed to have the opportunity to live this homeschool life with the people I love the most.</div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong> Love the <span class="name">Lord</span> your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>Deuteronomy 6:5-9</strong></span></div>
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whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-41671959885784277262015-04-25T18:31:00.000-05:002015-10-05T09:40:53.217-05:00Truth about House Bill 288There is currently a bill pending the Natural Resource Committee here in the Louisiana House of Representatives. House Bill No. 288 seeks to make it illegal to transport live, feral hogs in the state of Louisiana. You can find the proposed bill <a href="http://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/ViewDocument.aspx?d=933991" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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There have been good discussions between Representatives and people like myself who strive to protect our rights as hog hunters. These discussion include frequent mention of the growing 'feral hog population' in the state and the destruction they bring to farmlands and such. It seems that lawmakers are seeking a solution to this problem. Understandable. <br />
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A recent online article authored by the Outreach Coordinator for the Louisiana Wildlife Federation was published in what seems to be an attempt to rally the people of our state in support of this bill. In my opinion, it was missing a lot of really big details. In an attempt to paint the whole picture, I commented on this article-only to see that my comment is 'awaiting moderation'. I'm curious as to if the administrator will allow my statements to be published-I guess we shall see. <br />
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So...let me paint the rest of the picture here. Below you will find the reasons we should be AGAINST Louisiana HB 288 and ways you can make a difference.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>SAY NO TO HOUSE BILL 288</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. There is already a law in place making it illegal to release feral hogs. The law (RS 56:20) can be found in its full text </span><a href="http://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=105049" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">HERE</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. This bill is overkill.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. This bill would seriously hinder those of us who hunt feral hogs. Less hog hunting means less hogs killed. Less hogs killed mean a larger feral hog population.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Making it illegal to transport feral hogs means hunters can no longer bring a hog to a pen in order to train hunting dogs. Hunting hogs with dogs has proven very effective. Untrained dogs means less hogs hunted and killed out of the population.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. This bill would shut down many benefits and fundraisers with hog hunts and bay competitions being the main event.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. The bill would have an adverse impact on many businesses whose livelihood and income revolve </span><span style="font-size: large;">around hog hunting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. Stopping the transport of hogs or requiring a person to purchase a permit will not stop the spread of these animals. There have been no studies from other states showing the effectiveness of such a measure, that I am aware of.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. This bill has so much 'grey area' on classification, process, and enforcement. This leaves it wide open for manipulation, misunderstanding, and abuse. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. Many people castrate boar hogs in order to feed until they can be slaughtered and consumable. This bill would result in less safe, consumable, natural meat in many people's freezers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. This is Louisiana. 100 degree summertime weather makes it unsuitable to kill a hog on-site and it remain good to eat before it makes it into the freezer. Live transport solves that problem.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. This is NOT an effective 'hog population management tool'. What is an effective measure is to encourage, not hinder, the hog hunter. Taking blind steps because of a lack of other solutions is NOT the answer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">11. BIG GOVERNMENT. As laid out above, there is NO benefit towards reducing the population through such a law. There is also a law already in place that makes the liberation of hogs into the wild illegal. So why pass a law that's reasoning seems duplicate to an existing law? Why more taxpayer money spent on an ineffective means to an end?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">12. Heritage and tradition are a big deal. Such a law would stop and/or discourage many families from keeping their kids in the woods, harvesting their own meat, and helping curb the population problem. That's a no-win for everybody involved and would eliminate one more good, wholesome activity for the family and children.</span><br />
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None of these points were made in the article mentioned above. Perhaps now you can see the whole picture. If you want to make a difference, here's how....<br />
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<strong><span style="color: red;">**PLEASE be respectful and educated on the issues above when contacting Representatives. If not, you will only hurt our cause, not help it.**</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. </span><a href="http://house.louisiana.gov/H_Reps/members.asp?ID=18" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">HERE</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> you can find the contact information for the author of the bill if you feel you have more to offer to the conversation. Be prepared by knowing he is open to ideas that will curb the population and not hinder the hunter. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. </span><a href="http://house.louisiana.gov/_private/H_Cmte_NR.asp" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">HERE</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> you can find a list of the committee members of where HB288 currently sits. By clicking on each member's name you will find individual contact information.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. </span><a href="https://www.change.org/p/house-committe-on-natural-resources-adn-environment-louisiana-state-lawmakers-louisiana-state-house-stop-house-bill-no-288-from-committee-approval-being-passed-in-the-house-of-representatives-or-becoming-louisiana-law" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">HERE</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> you can find an online petition to sign in opposition to this bill. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>It's clear that people are pushing measures to stop our heritage of hog hunting. All the opinions in the world don't matter unless they're heard where they need to be heard. </strong></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">HAPPY HUNTING!</span></strong></div>
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whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-50791240729576308512014-07-01T19:32:00.001-05:002014-07-01T19:32:39.171-05:00Grace by Grace<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I started my day giving thanks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks long overlooked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Clinging to His grace for that needed lifeline.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I served.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And then.....</span></div>
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<em>Odds that only an all powerful, all knowing, and all loving GOD can pull off.</em></div>
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<em>Get YOUR specific, personal attention kind of circumstances.</em></div>
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<em>Way too big and individual to be simple coincidence.</em></div>
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<em>Sit on the front porch and cry tears that HE holds.</em></div>
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<em>Hot tears that release memories of being loved by my creator.</em></div>
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<em>A love so pure and real and so undeserved.</em></div>
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<em>That kind of God moment.</em></div>
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<em>That kind of reminder.</em></div>
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<em>ONLY GOD.</em></div>
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<em>Oh Jesus how I love you, from that same front porch.</em></div>
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<em>And a decision to be made.</em></div>
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Today I poured advice, guidance from my heart. I've been her and I don't believe her. To not need help because you ONLY have the Lord doesn't make sense. He IS the help. He IS the provision. He IS the grace. He IS the saving. It didn't make sense. So I shared the story a wise preacher man once shared with me....<br />
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<em>There was a flood and a man sat on the rooftop of his house praying, pleading with the Lord to help him, to save him. A lifeboat came by and offered this man a ride to dry land. He declined, and continued to wait on the Lord he knew would save him. Then a rescue chopper lowered a ladder, another way to dry land. Again, this faithful man declined. He decided to wait for his God, to hold out for God to save Him. The man drowned as the flood waters rose. He drowned not knowing that the chopper and the lifeboat had been sent from God. The help he refused was the direct lifeline from the God he pleaded to. </em><br />
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The answers to our prayers aren't always the things we expect. They aren't always packaged how we expect them to be. Sometimes we miss God while we wait for Him. We don't see His hand because we're looking for His face. Little did I know that council given today was God's pre-given advice to a question I myself would be asked later this day.<br />
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And the answer? God is God. Grace is a gift and it's given the way He chooses to give it. I too was reminded today that sometimes it's easy to overlook an answer to prayer. It's our nature to stay stuck on what we had in mind for our future. Today, I choose GOD and I fully accept HIS ways. His plans far exceed mine in what's best. Again, I soak in a scripture I shared with another person, advice that I gave to yet another child of our King today. I gratefully take it as my own and give thanks to the God that loves me beyond my wildest dreams. The second bit of truth I shared today that was indeed also handed down for my own answer.....<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;"><em>Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us Ephesians 3:20</em></span></strong></div>
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<em>Thank you Jesus for your all-powerful, breathtaking, tear bringing reminder that I belong to YOU. Am loved by YOU. Am protected and guided by YOU... moment by moment. Grace by grace. </em><br />
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<em>So yes God, I will take your grace today. In whatever fashion you give, with all satisfaction. For I know that whether it be your hand or your face, your personal presence or your lifeline.....that it is far above anything I could ever ask or dream of. OH JESUS....how I love YOU.</em><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c8O02CLl8gU/U7NS0fqW1YI/AAAAAAAAA8c/_IeJAx_FOAA/s1600/2013-08-20+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c8O02CLl8gU/U7NS0fqW1YI/AAAAAAAAA8c/_IeJAx_FOAA/s1600/2013-08-20+002.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></span>whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-58338483688254342542014-06-29T21:31:00.001-05:002014-06-29T21:31:37.163-05:00Tomatoe Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's that time of year again. The vegetables....not coming in like I want, but still the harvest is enough and there's hope for more. But these girls....</div>
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They steal my heart.</div>
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Every time.</div>
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They make it skip a beat.</div>
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And make it explode with laughter.</div>
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They're the perfect part of our crazy.</div>
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Yep, these two sisters have a huge part of me.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQea60IQSFA/U7DIHG2SwUI/AAAAAAAAA7k/mwYZvl1fRis/s1600/DSCN7001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQea60IQSFA/U7DIHG2SwUI/AAAAAAAAA7k/mwYZvl1fRis/s1600/DSCN7001.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Memories and tomatoes, all wrapped up in one.</div>
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Pretty good if you ask me!</div>
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Yummy and goofy too!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I_pS4D1woJc/U7DIIDnCh3I/AAAAAAAAA7s/EozJB-RZ0l4/s1600/DSCN7003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I_pS4D1woJc/U7DIIDnCh3I/AAAAAAAAA7s/EozJB-RZ0l4/s1600/DSCN7003.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Always entertaining.</div>
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Always loved, so very loved.</div>
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By eachother,by me, by any and every one who knows them.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L2SSBlNw7b0/U7DIITjS1dI/AAAAAAAAA7w/OXMO1TgfvFE/s1600/DSCN7004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L2SSBlNw7b0/U7DIITjS1dI/AAAAAAAAA7w/OXMO1TgfvFE/s1600/DSCN7004.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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And randomly crazy, oh so random!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q65AclKBlaA/U7DII8D2VyI/AAAAAAAAA70/i37rsX6xt8I/s1600/DSCN7008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q65AclKBlaA/U7DII8D2VyI/AAAAAAAAA70/i37rsX6xt8I/s1600/DSCN7008.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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This food sieve....generations old. The perfect birthday gift from my Grandma a few years back. If I'm right, it was her Grandmother's before it was hers. And now her Great Granddaughters share the kitchen with it once again.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IoZl42dipjc/U7DIJCIDVUI/AAAAAAAAA78/mVauj8XnZQE/s1600/DSCN7009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IoZl42dipjc/U7DIJCIDVUI/AAAAAAAAA78/mVauj8XnZQE/s1600/DSCN7009.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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And the boys, those crazy boys. Yep, they're the other piece of the puzzle! I never, ever would have guessed my heart could have this much room for this much love. With each day, each year, each crazy kitchen moment, and every wild parenting challenge....it continues to grow. A limitless grace. Thanks you Jesus for the four greatest kids ever.</div>
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They're pretty amazing.</div>
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RANDOM KID QUOTES OF THE NIGHT.....</div>
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Alaina: Gracie thinks North America is Texas....like all of it.</div>
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Gracie: I love my sister.</div>
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Cass: Uhhhh....I don't know what to say....HELLO.</div>
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Aiden: Ummm whatever.</div>
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True story, that's just kinda how we roll!</div>
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I'm now inspired to actually capture their randomness while theyr'e unaware....to steal their perfect words when they least expect it. That will be fun.</div>
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We can do ALL things through Christ who gives us strength. And it is ONLY through Christ that I am anything, anyone, with any sort of plan and purpose. May all I do this week be in love! And may the little (and big) eyes and ears around me continue to be the grace, the blessing, the motivation, and inspiration that they are. And they don't even know it! I guess that's how amazing works.</div>
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Jennifer</div>
<br />whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-61756214418145181542014-06-26T19:18:00.000-05:002014-06-26T19:18:41.827-05:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Summer's In FULL SWING in our neck of the woods!</span></div>
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Join me this week over at <a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/homeschool-summer-break-survival/" target="_blank">HOMESCHOOL SURVIVAL</a> for some summer survival tips!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love in Christ,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Jennifer</span></div>
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whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-7219950058994917212014-06-01T20:38:00.000-05:002014-06-01T20:38:02.347-05:00School Year 2013-2014<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">Homeschool Year #1 Complete!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">Wow!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">That's HUGE for us!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">I look forward to printing these pictures for each kid to put in their school album!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">Most importantly....GOD HAS BEEN FAITHFUL!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">So thankful for these memories!</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/82do9aGLmCU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">Here's a video to watch and enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">Please forgive the mistake or two or three.</span></div>
whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-72835668944359765222014-05-03T17:40:00.001-05:002014-05-03T17:40:30.921-05:00A Reminder of Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Several weeks ago we had a pretty fierce storm. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We know the drill.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Watch the radar</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Keep Tuned into local weather alerts</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pay attention and Listen</span></div>
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The lights flickered and suddenly it sounded like the house was being pounded inward from every direction by the rain.</div>
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That's when I gave the word and we rushed into the main bathroom of our house. We live in a mobile home and I believe this is the safest room-if there is one. It has no windows and seems to be in the best location if any of the big trees come down. In the middle of this, we hurried into Cass' bedroom and drug his double size mattress into the bathroom floor, along with the weather radio. It was here that we stayed and listened to the storm and the weather updates, on a now battery operated radio.</div>
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Let me explain that this isn't exactly a rare occurrence around here. We live in a land of frequent severe thunderstorms, tornado watches, and the occasional tornado itself. Most of the time, the worst that happens is we lose power for a day or more and/or spend the night in the bathroom floor.</div>
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I didn't go to sleep during this storm, and later in the night when it calmed down, I moved me and the kids back into our bedroom for the night. I did peek out the front door and see a big limb off of a tree. But I had no idea until morning what had happened outside.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-79sMvmiDYjE/U2TyNYaoIqI/AAAAAAAAA54/aLbiOK0F2b0/s1600/NesCousSpring1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-79sMvmiDYjE/U2TyNYaoIqI/AAAAAAAAA54/aLbiOK0F2b0/s1600/NesCousSpring1.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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To give you an idea, this shed is located behind the house. There is usually only grass on the ground. You can see a line of trees down behind Gracie, extending past both sides of the picture.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xk3_q8cMHZE/U2TyOGfuA-I/AAAAAAAAA58/x3TDY_3Jn7s/s1600/NesCousSpring2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xk3_q8cMHZE/U2TyOGfuA-I/AAAAAAAAA58/x3TDY_3Jn7s/s1600/NesCousSpring2.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is a closer picture of what was happening outside of the house. Where the skirting is 'ruffled' is where we went to get the mattress and only steps away from the bathroom we ended up in.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16MJPgCVhvE/U2TyPNGj36I/AAAAAAAAA6I/BUUhtua7JIA/s1600/NesCousSpring3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16MJPgCVhvE/U2TyPNGj36I/AAAAAAAAA6I/BUUhtua7JIA/s1600/NesCousSpring3.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Use your imagination here. This specific line of damage started past the edge of the first picture of the post. It began far from the house and did a whole lot of damage before making its way here. It went through the trees as I've tried to show in the pictures above. It messed with the skirting on the edge of the house....and then it literally STOPPED. Right there, right before the area where the kids and I were sheltered. Just. In. Time.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let that soak in.</span></div>
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The next morning, the kids yelled that there were trees down in the back, big trees. I stepped outside and my heart literally stopped and sank into my belly. We ventured outside and with every step, I saw something that I'll never forget. </div>
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I saw the exact measure of grace we were given that night. The weeks since have held discoveries of many more places effected by that night's storms. And a whole lot of cleanup with eventual results. </div>
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Since that morning I've been unable to help it.....I keep comparing this storm to God's protection in our lives. We go through times in life knowing things are rough and knowing God is with us. But it's not always then that we realize just how much grace we've been given. It's often not until the storm has passed that we are able to see. To look and feel of the damage, to sense the hurt from which we've been spared. Often Grace is best measured in hind-sight. Looking back and being able to see just how much our Savior has protected us from. I believe that feeling will be endlessly multiplied in the time we will walk and talk with Jesus. Until then, I'll remember to trust HIM in the storms. My hope is that you will too.</div>
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Life carries on in the days since. Springtime filled with all things spring. Baseball. Soccer. Softball. End of school work. Little friendships growing. Family together. Gardens planted. Yards mowed. Flowers planted. Hearts healing. And most of all.....lives lived. The tragedies coming from storms in other states remind us that the same God that gives....He also takes away. Still HE is mighty and He knows what He's protecting each of us from....even those whose lives were lost to a storm's fury. Pray for those families. Thank God that He isn't done with you yet. Be inspired by the stories of faith pouring in from survivors. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vjjYjygdAhY/U2TyRNrXM_I/AAAAAAAAA6Q/qy8pmueu_U8/s1600/NesCousSpring4-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vjjYjygdAhY/U2TyRNrXM_I/AAAAAAAAA6Q/qy8pmueu_U8/s1600/NesCousSpring4-001.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Today I give things to HIM in all we have. For my husband, my best friend. For our four beautiful and healthy children. For little friendships and lives growing. For lessons learned and storms survived. For protections unknown and Grace we often don't see.</div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works. Psalm 145:17</span></em></strong></div>
whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-23061281347721472442014-04-19T09:17:00.000-05:002014-04-19T09:17:15.133-05:00Louisiana House Bill 1091Okay Dog Owners and Hog Hunters, there is yet another bill working it's way through into Louisiana Law that I think you will find of interest. It looks like we have only until Tuesday April 22nd to stop this bill from passing into the Senate and getting one huge step closer to becoming law. First, let me introduce you to....<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">LOUISIANA HOUSE BILL 1091 By Representative Tom Willmott</span></div>
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<span id="ctl00_PageBody_LabelShortTitle" style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;">ANIMALS: Prohibits the transportation of dogs in pickup truck beds on certain roadways unless humanely secured</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;">Scheduled for Floor Debate on 4/22/14</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;">(Final House Vote before moving to Senate)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">This may or may not mean anything to you. For our family, it's another jab closer to stepping on our rights as dog owners and a family that hunts with our dogs. For us, it's a silly place for government to step in and could very well add to the slippery slope of losing our rights as dog owners. I believe the people supporting this law think it's a public safety issue to have a dog riding unsecured on a pickup bed on Interstate Highways. If you're like us, we know many people and many dogs that have done this for a long time with no incident. And also like us, you can probably come up with a list of other hazards to our citizens that need much more attention....such as an overreach of government control on things that don't need fixed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">If you feel the same way, please consider taking a few moments this weekend to shoot an email and or voice mail to your representative. You can find your representative and contact information <a href="http://house.louisiana.gov/H_Reps/H_Reps_ByAddress.asp" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">If you're not great with words, feel free to use the same words we have. Here is a sample email you might find handy....</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Dear Representative_________________,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It has come to my attention that House Bill 1091 is up for floor debate and a final vote this coming Tuesday, April 22nd. This bill seeks to prohibit the transportation of dogs in pickup truck beds on certain roadways unless humanely secured. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am a dog owner, who cares very much about the safety of my animals and other citizens. With that being said, I find this law an attack on my personal rights and lifestyle. The practice of dogs riding unrestrained in truck beds is a long lived way of doing things for many of us here in Louisiana-and something that has not represented a hazard to myself or anyone/dog that I know. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">At the end of the day, I find this bill an excuse for more government regulation where none is needed. I feel there are many other pressing issues that need our law makers and law enforcement's attention. Please consider taking a stand against this bill that will do nothing other than hinder dog owners like myself, as well as law enforcement officers from keeping their attention on more pressing matters. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">PLEASE VOTE NO to House Bill 1091 this coming week. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">THANK YOU,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Please take time before Tuesday to email or call your rep's office. Each voice makes a difference and this is just one of many attempts for lawmakers to get their fingers into a way of life that we are trying to protect!</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;">For more information of past work we are trying to accomplish, you can visit the following posts....</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://stoppraylisten.blogspot.com/2014/03/house-bill-no-958.html" target="_blank">HOUSE BILL No. 958</a> Update: Bill 958 did NOT make it out of committee this year. Instead, it was decided that a study would be done on this issue. Good work people. Keep your eyes and ears open for more information to come on the issue of transporting Live, Feral Hogs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://stoppraylisten.blogspot.com/2014/03/hog-hunting.html" target="_blank">HOG HUNTING</a> better known as HOGS, DOGS, & HATERS can also be found in your April issue of Tuskers Magazine and is a good read on what it is we're aiming to protect.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">And now, to ask a favor from you.....</span></strong></div>
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I've done the homework here, as well as give y'all specific breakdowns in who and when to contact. My husband Tommy and I are glad to help fight to preserve this heritage for our children and generations to come! Now I'm asking that after you make your calls and send your emails, to PLEASE take a minute to share this post with any and everyone you can. Facebook is an awesome platform, so get busy and paste the link to this post in every dog, hog hunting, and other dog hunting group that you can! THANK YOU!</div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-large;">HAPPY EASTER WEEKEND! HE IS RISEN, HE IS KING, and HE IS THE HEAD OF OUR HOME and the HEART OF ALL WE DO!!!!!</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-large;">JESUS REIGNS!</span></em></strong></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><strong><span style="color: black;">You can contact me directly at <a href="mailto:jenwhitten8@yahoo.com">jenwhitten8@yahoo.com</a></span></strong></span><br />
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<span id="goog_888868450"></span><span id="goog_888868451"></span> <a href="http://instagram.com/p/my31M8OrQy/"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.ak.instagram.com/6a4b47d6c44b11e398c724be059c0fb0_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-45803323886767940002014-04-02T10:22:00.001-05:002014-04-02T10:22:48.704-05:00Louisiana Homeschool Lessons<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Wow....we've had an eventful few weeks!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Many things to share in the days to come!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Surprise sister visit and walking by faith!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Spring schedules & the tricky art of 'doing it all'!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Tornado....God proves right on time!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Current issues and future plans for protecting our hunting and dog rights.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Those are only to mention a few!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Yes, there's much to be written!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>So as our life settles back to 'normal', I'll leave you with a Louisiana Homeschool Lesson!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Visit </strong></span><a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/louisiana-homeschool-lesson-challenge/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><strong> at </strong></span><a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/louisiana-homeschool-lesson-challenge/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>HOMESCHOOL SURVIVAL</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><strong> for a little bit of a Southern Challenge!</strong></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7HVsGjY8JEA/UzwqJ_SiHhI/AAAAAAAAA5A/yyHt9uZYcLA/s1600/Collages2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7HVsGjY8JEA/UzwqJ_SiHhI/AAAAAAAAA5A/yyHt9uZYcLA/s1600/Collages2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-63266542230341171032014-03-14T21:46:00.002-05:002015-04-13T21:53:10.600-05:00House Bill No. 288<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">UPDATE:</span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">This post was originally posted approximately a year ago and Titled Louisiana House Bill No. 958. Once again-the same type of bill has been proposed-this time it's House Bill No. 288 being proposed by Representative Major Thibaut. For the sake of streamlining the process of equipping hunters to speak up for their rights-I'm simply going to replace last years details with updated information. Since they're trying to pull the same type of nonsense law out of their valuable public service skills-this will be very easy. The only information changing will be the above mentioned name on the bill proposal and I will fill in dates as I learn them! Now it's y'all's turn.....let's get busy with the phone calls and emails! Happy hunting....and advocating for your rights!...Jennifer</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">LOUISIANA HOUSE BILL NO. 288</span></h2>
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A week ago I posted an article. Its reach was pretty far. Its content seemed to serve as a voice for a large number of hog hunters like myself, my husband, and so many of our friends. If you're unfamiliar with this article you can <a href="http://stoppraylisten.blogspot.com/2014/03/hog-hunting.html" target="_blank"><strong>GO HERE</strong></a> to read it. <br />
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There were many of YOU, just like us...</div>
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Ready to stand up for what we believe in to protect our rights as hog hunters and dog owners.</div>
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There's a time to speak up for these things and one of those times is <strong>NOW</strong>.</div>
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This past week many of you were made aware of a law being proposed in our state of Louisiana. A law that will prohibit the transport of 'live feral hogs'.<br />
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Now, I am fairly educated. But I will be the first to admit that I didn't pay that much attention when it came to 'government'. Since I spend my days raising & teaching our kids, taking care of pups, and hunting with my husband-I'm not exactly a walking resource on the 'law making' process in Louisiana-or anywhere to be more exact. <em> </em>I don't think I'm the only one. <br />
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So, I've done my homework. I've made the phone calls. And I've come up with what I hope will serve as an easy guide to what's going on here. AND to make sure WE ALL know that time is of the essence and there IS A WAY for you to make a difference. I'll do my best to share what I've learned.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><strong>FIRST LET'S GET UP TO SPEED</strong></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">HOUSE BILL NO. 288 by Representative Thibaut looks to prohibit the transport of live feral hogs</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The bill can be found <strong><a href="http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/ViewDocument.aspx?d=933991" target="_blank">HERE</a></strong>. Included are penalties that one 'shall' be subject to if the law is violated. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A quick little graph of how the law making process works in Louisiana can be found <a href="http://house.louisiana.gov/H_Citizens/pdf/HowAbill.pdf" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a>. But basically, it's like this....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. A House Representative presents a proposed bill (In this case Representative Thibaut)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. It is referred to a specific house committee (In this case Natural Resource & Environment)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. That committee hears/reviews the bill and they make a report on the bill. It is my understanding that the bill can be stopped inside the committee. If so, it stops there. If not, we go on to number 4.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4. The bill gets presented/debated on the floor of the House of Representatives.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">5. The Bill is either voted for or against in the House of Representatives. If against, it can either be reconsidered or receive no further action. If approved, it then goes on to the Louisiana Senate.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">6. From here, pretty much the same process of #'s 1-5 is repeated in the Senate. If all gets approved, it goes on to the process to get final approval and enactment as law.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Where are we now?</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Bill has been assigned to the <a href="http://www.house.louisiana.gov/H_Cmtes/H_CMTE_NR.asp" target="_blank"><strong>Natural Resource & Environment Committee</strong></a>. My checking shows that it is likely to be 'reviewed' by this committee as early as <em>(To Be Updated).</em> So, theoretically-the committee could approve this bill, pass it on to be voted and approved by the entire House, and move it onto the Senate possibly as early as <em>(To Be Updated).</em> (Remember, this is based on my understanding of information received) That's a lot of work and a whole lot of possible progress to be made in a very short time. That's where we come in.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">MOST IMPORTANTLY, WHAT CAN YOU DO?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our first and perhaps most effective approach needs to be to 'kill' this bill right where it's starting! It would be awesome to stop it in committee. If not there, then lets get it stopped in the House so it won't even move onto Senate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Like I shared in the </span><a href="http://stoppraylisten.blogspot.com/2014/03/hog-hunting.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>'Hogs Dogs & Haters'</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> article, our voices <em>do</em> make a difference. What matters is that we let the people who are making these decisions and laws know how we feel about this proposed law.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">HERE'S HOW</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Email or call your specific House Representative (CLICK </span><a href="http://house.louisiana.gov/H_Reps/H_Reps_ByAddress.asp" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> to find your rep) and let them know you are AGAINST HOUSE BILL No. 288. Share your thoughts, opinions, and reasons.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Encourage your like minded friends to do the same.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Email or call EVERY representative that you can on this specific committee. Remember they will be reviewing and making a report on this bill in a <em>(To Be Updated)</em><em>!</em> Go </span><a href="http://www.house.louisiana.gov/H_Cmtes/H_CMTE_NR.asp" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> to find the list of Representative on this committee. Print the list then go through and find links to each member's contact information.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4. Encourage your like minded friends to do the same.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I don't mind sharing what I will be emailing to the representatives in this committee. It might give you an example of how to word your own opinions:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Dear Representative_____________,</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>My name is ______________ and I live _______________. I understand that house Bill No. 288 will be reviewed by your committee within . This bill would have a very negative impact on the sport of Hog Hunting. This impact is more than personal, it could also affect many businesses throughout the state that rely on this sport as the heart of their income. Please strongly consider stopping this bill in its tracks because of the impact it will have on myself and others. We often catch and transport live hogs for the purpose of training hunting dogs or to castrate so that down the road they can be fit to kill as food. Please contact me if you'd like further information. Please STOP Bill. No 288 that would prohibit the transportation of live feral hogs.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Signed,</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>________________</strong></span><br />
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REMEMBER: This is just a sample. It would be great to add your own thoughts and concerns. The more representatives on this committee that you can email and call, the better we will be heard! And remember to contact your own representative too!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There you have it-with instructions and links as well. I hope this helps make it easier. PLEASE voice your opposition to this bill. Don't think your opinion doesn't matter! Don't wait until after a law is passed to take action. Take charge and BE HEARD AS SOON as you can!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">THANK Y'ALL and GOD BLESS! Feel free to comment with questions or concerns.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">SHARE THE LINK TO THIS POST WITH AS MANY PEOPLE AS YOU CAN!</span></div>
<br />whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-1379193527962406192014-03-10T06:37:00.002-05:002014-03-10T06:37:33.231-05:00Philippines Mission Trip<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I've gathered pictures from our friends helping to rebuild the Open Door Bible Baptist Mission in the Philippines! Please continue to pray as they serve as the hands and feet of Christ for a people in need! THANK YOU!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IwMtTZAQsJc/Ux2hzm7ETlI/AAAAAAAAA3g/K_4G5eXJlGY/s1600/Phil1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IwMtTZAQsJc/Ux2hzm7ETlI/AAAAAAAAA3g/K_4G5eXJlGY/s1600/Phil1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MbtgjfeIoF4/Ux2hztt8ntI/AAAAAAAAA3k/8jsOCxDhCwk/s1600/Phil2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MbtgjfeIoF4/Ux2hztt8ntI/AAAAAAAAA3k/8jsOCxDhCwk/s1600/Phil2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Framing for the building they have started on! Beside it is one of the huts for Sunday School.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0VTVKEDr-s/Ux2hzRdAVjI/AAAAAAAAA3c/PRbLEsIsw7k/s1600/Phil3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0VTVKEDr-s/Ux2hzRdAVjI/AAAAAAAAA3c/PRbLEsIsw7k/s1600/Phil3.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CCWC Associate Pastor Josh Love sharing with the people in Sagay!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EqxC3454XWQ/Ux2h06vaq5I/AAAAAAAAA34/spFzDNsV58I/s1600/Phil6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EqxC3454XWQ/Ux2h06vaq5I/AAAAAAAAA34/spFzDNsV58I/s1600/Phil6.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who would have EVER thought this little guy could be found on a mission trip with a little boy's Daddy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">My favorite picture of the day! Rumor has it this little one already had CCWC Pastor Dean Love wrapped around her finger!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Keep those prayers coming as God uses these to share and shine the love of Christ!</span></div>
whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-46032737008950957692014-03-07T07:16:00.000-06:002014-03-07T08:44:41.116-06:00Counting Gifts<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The weekend is about to make its appearance!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Whether you're dealing in helping and linking verbs, multiplication facts, chemistry, or just the family chores....consider slowing down your weekend for some great family time!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We will be!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;">Today you can find me writing over </span><a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/preschooling-vs-preschool/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><strong><em>HERE</em></strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><strong><em> </em></strong>at Homeschool Survival.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;">Consider visiting and reading. Today's post has this oh so perfect little red-headed boy at its heart!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--cHoD-2TU8I/UxnDm3e48rI/AAAAAAAAA3E/qdMecXg4H48/s1600/HogHunting7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--cHoD-2TU8I/UxnDm3e48rI/AAAAAAAAA3E/qdMecXg4H48/s1600/HogHunting7.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I can already tell today is one of those days I just can't make myself <em>WANT</em> to stay inside.....so we probably won't. It's days when the classroom moves outside, when the creation surrounding us becomes the chalkboard, when family becomes the teacher.....that's when I am especially reminded to give thanks!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1ix-SOfc-uE/UxnDnXazDZI/AAAAAAAAA3I/QcG763ZATWY/s1600/HogHunting8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1ix-SOfc-uE/UxnDnXazDZI/AAAAAAAAA3I/QcG763ZATWY/s1600/HogHunting8.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thankful for such a FAITHFUL God.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For such a wonderful husband.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the opportunity to teach these crazy little people.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For another day to give my best.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the countdown to the end of this hitch.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today, I choose to count my gifts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today, that choice can be yours as well!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;"><strong>Give thanks in everything, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1Thes.5:18b</strong></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Will you take the time today to pray for a team we have headed to the Philippines?</span></strong><span class="p"><strong><span style="font-size: large;"> They have traveled there to be the hands and feet of Christ. To be the vessels of His light into the lives of those who have lost so much. Please pray for protection, for God's glory, and for hearts to be tender to their presence. God knows their names! Thank you!</span></strong></span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">UPDATE ON OUR MISSIONARIES:</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>On this Friday morning, they are in Manila, Philippines! It's 11PM on Friday night there! They should fly out to the other side of the Island on Saturday at 10:30. For those of you who don't know, they will be rebuilding the Open Door Baptist Church! Keep those prayers coming! Thank You!!!</strong></span><span class="versiontext"></span></div>
whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-87732935999487220852014-03-01T19:53:00.001-06:002014-03-02T21:09:43.679-06:00Hog Hunting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L9qFdNx8ER8/UxH0r06zevI/AAAAAAAAA2g/O_v29XaL2B4/s1600/HogHunting6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L9qFdNx8ER8/UxH0r06zevI/AAAAAAAAA2g/O_v29XaL2B4/s1600/HogHunting6.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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As the 'hog hunting' culture is being exposed through popular television shows....some of us at home are actually living the sport. My husband's been a hog hunter since long before hog hunting was cool. With that said, let me tell you that the opposition to the sport is LOUD, proud, and shameless about trying to drag us through the mud.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iONWrJGkkO4/UxH29mX4SFI/AAAAAAAAA2w/Vvrs0Ai3lFY/s1600/HogHunting3-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iONWrJGkkO4/UxH29mX4SFI/AAAAAAAAA2w/Vvrs0Ai3lFY/s1600/HogHunting3-001.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div>
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We live where generations have hunted. Hunted more than hog. Lived off the land. Shared their stories. Loved their family. Lost their loved ones. Survived wars. Our history runs deep in these woods. Even me, the transplanted wife, can tell you that the history of two cultures now collide and intertwine in my heart.</div>
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We catch the negative attention more times than you'd realize. While families in cities across America cheer on reality TV shows pretending to depict the reality of this sport....we hear whispers of new laws to protect these poor 'abused' animals. We are told that what we do is cruel, inhumane, and should in the end be prosecuted.</div>
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So a message has been brewing in my heart for many weeks. If you know me, you know I have NO problem standing up for what I believe in. I pray, I study God's word, I pay attention to the culture shifts, and I am willing to fight for my children's future. Spiritually, emotionally, and politically.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4MM-2tHtK9k/UxH0iK041XI/AAAAAAAAA1s/x3wEamzRZoE/s1600/Feb20141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4MM-2tHtK9k/UxH0iK041XI/AAAAAAAAA1s/x3wEamzRZoE/s1600/Feb20141.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Their generation is losing rights before they are even old enough to enjoy them. While at the same time blinded, reprobate minds are fighting for other nonsense liberties....like the right to kill their own children. Trying to teach them that 'love' has no boundaries. That the best way to be protected is to take away their fire arms. That their health is in the hands of the agencies controlling an engineered food supply.</div>
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WRONG. So VERY WRONG.</div>
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LOUD. The groups lobbying for abortion rights, same-sex marriage, gun control, and an 'atheist' nation....those groups are LOUD and PROUD. If they are outnumbered by conservative Christians like ourselves, you wouldn't know it on Capitol Hill. This nation is governed by the louder voice more often than it is the popular vote. </div>
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So...let me give you another perspective to stand on. And let me remind you that doing what's right is usually not what's popular. And it's usually uncomfortable. So if you believe in what I'm sharing, feel free to use my words if yours don't come as easily. Use them, share them, rally them together with your own. Just don't, whatever you do, sit and quietly watch another right be stripped away.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gOSUq_nWNAo/UxH0rzFZhjI/AAAAAAAAA2c/hmRCQBZfOGU/s1600/HogHunting5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gOSUq_nWNAo/UxH0rzFZhjI/AAAAAAAAA2c/hmRCQBZfOGU/s1600/HogHunting5.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>A PERSONAL, OPEN LETTER TO DOG HUNTING HATERS & ACTIVISTS :</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Like you, I was created. This whole 'debate' can be found summarized in Romans chapter 1 of the Bible. You see, you are doing something the Bible calls 'worshiping the created instead of the creator'. Animals are created. Humans are created. So while fighting full speed ahead for the rights of feral hogs and catch dogs at any and all cost....you're missing some seriously important parts of the picture.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let me clear up some misconceptions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">First, our primary reason for owning hog dogs IS NOT to spend our days chasing or cheering our dogs on just to see how much they can 'damage' a hog. My response stems from an article on the Humane Society's website that say of LEGAL bay competitions...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> "<span style="font-size: small;">While hog dog trials try to package themselves as respectable entertainment, they are often little more than glorified hog dog fights, similar to other bloodsports like dogfighting, bullfighting, and cockfighting." </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The truth is that our passion is in hunting wild hogs to eat or to use in the training of puppies. At no time is it ever to see how much damage a dog can do. Our bay dogs serve an important role while hunting and these competitions are a great way to showcase our dog's talent, enjoy the sport with others like ourselves, and get our children involved in such a great activity.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our catch dogs (not entered in said bay competitions) serve to CATCH the hog. Yes, injuries occur to both animals at times but we do take measures to prevent this and quickly put a hog down if the damage is severe. Distorted views like the one I've quoted above do nothing other than spread untrue views of what we really do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Second, wild hogs are not cute, cuddly, defenseless animals that are left at a disadvantage. They are destructive, mean, and completely capable of holding their ground. I promise you that if my kids or myself came across a hog in the woods and it felt threatened...we are at FAR greater risk than the animal. Countless acres of land are destroyed every year by the hog population. As for the sport of "catch competitions"... you can't fairly pass laws that hinder an entire sport because of a few small events that represented barely a portion of 'hog dog' activities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Third, you argue that the dogs are suffering cruelty in this sport. You are DEAD wrong. Dogs are animals. As domesticated as you may aim to make them, they are completely in their element while hunting. It's silly to say letting an animal hunt is doing it a disservice. I could argue that keeping an animal in a house every day is further against it's origins than what we do. I'm all for house pets if that's what you like, but leave my dogs natural abilities to hunt alone. The instinct to hunt is what they were born with, not a cute fluffy bed that sits in your entryway. I can guarantee you that our dogs are better cared for, happier, and healthier than the starving and neglected children in this country that you COULD be spending your energy and time protecting instead of our happy animals. You see, those children, and the 1.3 million unborn children that our nation aborts yearly, they were all made in the image of God-unlike hogs. Your passion, energy, and financial provision would be so much better spent on THAT kind of protection.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As for the dogs themselves, not allowing them to hunt is the same to me as not allowing your children to play sports or enjoy life because you're afraid of them getting hurt. Same thing. When you limit your children to only your home and never let them out into the world (especially sports or any other activity that carries risks), then-and only then-can you come talk to me about not hunting my dogs because they could get hurt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fourth, you argue that my children are being taught blood sport. Wrong. My children are being taught to hunt their own food. To take pride in training an animal to sharpen their natural born hunting skills. We hunt as a family, in God's beautiful creation of the woods, away from violent video games and cartoons, and not in front of TV shows that promote homosexuality or violence. They are taught the sanctity of HUMAN life, and that it's OK and encouraged to hunt and harvest their own food. Wouldn't you, as a liberal, be proud that they're not eating the poison junk food that you're trying to ban from public schools? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fifth, our dogs are respected as animals and in no way endanger our children. I once said I'd never let a pit bull live on this land. I was so misguided and mistaken because of the negative media attention this breed attracts. A dog is a dog. Period. Safety measures and common sense should always be used when allowing children around dogs-especially ones large and powerful in strength. I know true accidents have happened in the past, but so have many tragedies that could have been prevented. At the end of the day, a dog is still a dog. Even the best dog can 'snap' under certain circumstances. Unfortunately, this breed has been sadly blamed for many situations that have stemmed from poor decisions and a lack of common sense. Our catch dogs have proven to be our sweetest, gentlest, most protective, and good natured dogs that we've ever had. We love them dearly. We also take precautions as with any dog around our children. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And finally, I ask you to prayerfully consider where better you could invest your time, energy, and finances. There are children and adults being sold in sex trafficking right here in our country. Women and families being destroyed for the sake of aborting an 'inconvenient' child. Like I mentioned before this letter, the rights to bear arms, to worship and serve Christ, and to remain free-are under major attack daily. Further legislation and laws against such isolated incidents as 'dog fighting' should NOT continue to hinder the family sport of hog hunting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">SIGNED:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A Louisiana Hog Hunting Family</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">NOTE: In no way was this letter written to stir hate. Only to make you, others, and the people pushing to abolish our sport aware of the truth. I encourage you to pay attention to your state and national legislation so as these rights are not terminated before we even knew they were at risk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do your homework. Stand up for this sport. Encourage your state representatives to do the same.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t5AALC7_fuI/UxH0oDDWNrI/AAAAAAAAA2M/tOTa9UoXyww/s1600/HogHunting4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t5AALC7_fuI/UxH0oDDWNrI/AAAAAAAAA2M/tOTa9UoXyww/s1600/HogHunting4.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUsGK0bkhmg/UxH0lLi3qtI/AAAAAAAAA18/W0yd744G1E0/s1600/Febuary14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUsGK0bkhmg/UxH0lLi3qtI/AAAAAAAAA18/W0yd744G1E0/s1600/Febuary14.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<strong>ATTENTION: While I will not include links as to boost their page viewings, I am aware of more than one site and/or group of people that are actively seeking to take away our rights to hunt hogs and to hunt with our dogs. However I have NO way to prove their authenticity. I just don't know if their bite is as big as their bark-pun intended. Our job needs to be to match the voices of these groups to our legislators and representatives-when necessary. </strong></div>
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<strong>If you are aware of any specific proposals, laws being drafted, petitions, or any other action of the like against our rights, please comment with specifics below. Consider joining your local dog hunting association. If there isn't one-start one. We need to be paying attention to what these groups of people are doing and be ready to counter their voices with our own.</strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">IF YOU ARE A BUSINESS OR INDIVIDUAL WHO WOULD LIKE YOUR NAME SIGNED AT THE BOTTOM OF THE ABOVE LETTER, COMMENT BELOW WITH YOUR NAME, CITY & STATE, & DIRECTIONS TO ADD YOUR SIGNATURE.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">THANK YALL AND GOD BLESS!!!</span></div>
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<br />whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-43824120303876218772014-02-19T10:38:00.000-06:002014-02-20T13:00:48.517-06:00Introducing F2D<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Introducing Frazzled to Dazzled</span></h2>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_enUj8vkysw/UwTBZ8olGTI/AAAAAAAAA0o/Z2OjusPGhLU/s1600/FrazzledToDazzled3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_enUj8vkysw/UwTBZ8olGTI/AAAAAAAAA0o/Z2OjusPGhLU/s1600/FrazzledToDazzled3.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Frazzled2Dazzled">VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE HERE</a></span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d;">Bringing handmade, quality items to you one sister at a time! We have a few select items for sale at this time, with many more to come. A plan to officially launch our sales in the fall is in full swing! Until then, we've started a Facebook page to share our vision with yall.</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d;">Below is a small sample of the items we will have. Behind the scenes we have plans in motion to add more items like these and many others! We're thinking and creating along the lines of crocheted and beaded treasures, hair accessories, and home décor!</span></em></strong></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xjM2oyfyKZU/UwTBYHAiRqI/AAAAAAAAA0U/Fz-TJSAysOA/s1600/FrazzledToDazzled1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xjM2oyfyKZU/UwTBYHAiRqI/AAAAAAAAA0U/Fz-TJSAysOA/s1600/FrazzledToDazzled1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdBO5EhCwL0/UwTBYHKp-NI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/mCzV65Dyvoc/s1600/FrazzledToDazzled2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdBO5EhCwL0/UwTBYHKp-NI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/mCzV65Dyvoc/s1600/FrazzledToDazzled2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em><strong>An etsy shop is very likely in our future along with some local festivals in the fall. 'Local' takes on a different meaning here, as creations are coming to life in more states than one!</strong></em><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sA2vUtys0nE/UwTL8bs1wmI/AAAAAAAAA1M/GpsShPB3l5I/s1600/2_how-do-people-make-it-through-sister-picture-quotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sA2vUtys0nE/UwTL8bs1wmI/AAAAAAAAA1M/GpsShPB3l5I/s1600/2_how-do-people-make-it-through-sister-picture-quotes.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d;">The heart of F2D is that of two sisters. Young and old! </span></em></strong></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GqEy21aRXpQ/UwTKiWMXbmI/AAAAAAAAA04/tg9b5OD2qfo/s1600/Sister.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GqEy21aRXpQ/UwTKiWMXbmI/AAAAAAAAA04/tg9b5OD2qfo/s1600/Sister.png" height="201" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d;">Younger ones being busy with school, active cheer and dance stars, and life itself! Still they can be found helping behind the scenes at different times, with fun down the road with their own awesome creations! </span></em></strong></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lex1gvgmQd0/UwTLeffTP-I/AAAAAAAAA1E/-_o3Ze7MGPU/s1600/IMG_0203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lex1gvgmQd0/UwTLeffTP-I/AAAAAAAAA1E/-_o3Ze7MGPU/s1600/IMG_0203.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Like, visit, and share our Facebook page with friends (see the link above) and look forward to more great things to come!</span></em></div>
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<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KRDtd_BZl4U/UwTBYtF-KbI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/CLa6vYhl9BI/s1600/FrazzledToDazzled.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></div>
whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-24651303502082712702014-02-18T19:29:00.001-06:002014-02-18T19:29:08.912-06:00Pray Without Ceasing<h2 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><em>Been thinking lately?</em></span></h2>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iu4o9o58bwA/UwQCcuP7HPI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/_ISIrun75bg/s1600/DSCF1038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iu4o9o58bwA/UwQCcuP7HPI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/_ISIrun75bg/s1600/DSCF1038.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yeah, me too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The change of weather seems to have that effect on me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We've had plenty of that around here.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ypVR_H5qaJ8/UwQChQUj1XI/AAAAAAAAAzY/IsC7ZLvBsQI/s1600/DSCF1043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ypVR_H5qaJ8/UwQChQUj1XI/AAAAAAAAAzY/IsC7ZLvBsQI/s1600/DSCF1043.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm learning that there are times God wants us to speak.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Times He wants us to stand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And there are times to be quiet and still.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fh-a2crmsvw/UwQCahpCLWI/AAAAAAAAAzI/-cAp3-8pJAA/s1600/DSCF1046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fh-a2crmsvw/UwQCahpCLWI/AAAAAAAAAzI/-cAp3-8pJAA/s1600/DSCF1046.JPG" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the meantime, school days pass by.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">'Little' people grow. In more ways than one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our days come in hitches.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The man I love provides more than we could ever need.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Still, I forget that we are blessed beyond belief.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BrQ7YHz50AA/UwQCjc53e4I/AAAAAAAAAzg/LJ7vLiGk38I/s1600/DSCF1063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BrQ7YHz50AA/UwQCjc53e4I/AAAAAAAAAzg/LJ7vLiGk38I/s1600/DSCF1063.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are families starving right now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We are a minority with the majority.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And as a nation, we don't even know it.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ww4UZ035ioQ/UwQClDckdxI/AAAAAAAAAzo/jaAJyqMGx_o/s1600/DSCF1068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ww4UZ035ioQ/UwQClDckdxI/AAAAAAAAAzo/jaAJyqMGx_o/s1600/DSCF1068.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We continue to learn from each other.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The more I learn, the less I realize I've known.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The more I know I need my Savior.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To focus on pointing their hearts to <strong><em>HIM</em></strong> while not being distracted by the world.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yhIKZwPfCgc/UwQCpqMu_FI/AAAAAAAAAz8/ePBkLj05mgo/s1600/DSCF1070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yhIKZwPfCgc/UwQCpqMu_FI/AAAAAAAAAz8/ePBkLj05mgo/s1600/DSCF1070.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once lost, now found.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At times thinking I knew every answer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not ashamed to tell you I cling to scripture and promises today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Promises of things I can't always see.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Reminders that God knows what I do not.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Knowing that we never really know the battles others face.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">God gave me a word today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Twice. In a row.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PRAY WITHOUT CEASING.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PRAY WITHOUT CEASING.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">(1Thes. 5:17)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">No conditions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">No questions asked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PRAY WITHOUT CEASING.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PRAY WITHOUT CEASING.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--YPL170TSrQ/UwQCo5PXOlI/AAAAAAAAAz0/UqEt0D5LA8E/s1600/DSCF1083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--YPL170TSrQ/UwQCo5PXOlI/AAAAAAAAAz0/UqEt0D5LA8E/s1600/DSCF1083.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That means to pick up my shield of faith, the sword of the spirit, and to cover myself in the rest of God's armor.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tired. Imperfect. Unworthy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yet blessed by the grace of a God whose clearly speaking.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k_S763wi0gU/UwQCpHvd7yI/AAAAAAAAAzw/Tg05qBqqodI/s1600/DSCF1091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k_S763wi0gU/UwQCpHvd7yI/AAAAAAAAAzw/Tg05qBqqodI/s1600/DSCF1091.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To run with endurance the race that's been set before me. Eyes only on JESUS, the author and finisher of my faith.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">(Hebrews 12:1-2)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Knowing with every piece of my heart that HE is faithful. That He who began a good work in me, in us, will be faithful to complete it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">(Philippians 1:6)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PRAISE. WORSHIP. THANKS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And above all...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PRAY WITHOUT CEASING</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PRAY WITHOUT CEASING</span></div>
<br />whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-31248298144861026532014-01-31T08:40:00.000-06:002014-01-31T08:40:36.942-06:00Winter Wonder<h2 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em><span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Louisiana Snow</span></em></h2>
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These cypress knees have seen snow very few times in the many years they've grown in this swamp.</h2>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evk44HEnsjM/UuuzYzmSGEI/AAAAAAAAAxs/BDBe9scFKeE/s1600/DSCF0834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evk44HEnsjM/UuuzYzmSGEI/AAAAAAAAAxs/BDBe9scFKeE/s1600/DSCF0834.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This long county road isn't accustomed to the white visitor that graced it's surface <em>twice </em>within the week, with the possibility of a soon return.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4YavI2MJXwc/UuuzYmplT-I/AAAAAAAAAxo/iB2WBo2ZIKA/s1600/DSCF0841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4YavI2MJXwc/UuuzYmplT-I/AAAAAAAAAxo/iB2WBo2ZIKA/s1600/DSCF0841.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">'Snow day' isn't usually a part of their vocabulary.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes the craziest kid of all comes disguised as a grown up!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Little cheeks accustomed to heat waves grow rosy with the chill.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tonka truck beds fill with a good dose from Jack Frost.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cocoa with sugar cookie marshmallows warm little bodies, as family memories warm their hearts.</span></div>
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<strong><em>This week you can find me over at <a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/46-cent-lessons-writing-and-sending-letters/#comment-804">HOMESCHOOL SURVIVAL</a> blogging about a time old tradition that serves well in the classroom! Do visit? I hope you'll enjoy!</em></strong> </div>
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<br />whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-46807172917435881012014-01-22T09:45:00.004-06:002014-01-22T09:45:58.481-06:00Through The Lens<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;">Homeschool group field trip...with our Principal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hands on Louisiana Wildlife</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Country yard conversations</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puppy Love</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back road Saturday</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dog training with Daddy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family together</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xHbTFHjtPpk/Ut_Ypig7xNI/AAAAAAAAAxM/Zc9dEkxsq3A/s1600/DSCF0583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xHbTFHjtPpk/Ut_Ypig7xNI/AAAAAAAAAxM/Zc9dEkxsq3A/s1600/DSCF0583.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet, sweet Diesel</td></tr>
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<br />whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-25033637034369419592014-01-16T10:16:00.000-06:002014-01-16T10:16:52.106-06:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Good Morning and Happy Thursday! Today you can find me over at </span><a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/a-rookie-december-our-first-homeschool-year/"><span style="font-size: large;">HOMESCHOOL SURVIVAL</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">! Just </span><a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/a-rookie-december-our-first-homeschool-year/"><span style="font-size: large;">CLICK HERE</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">! I'll be reflecting on our first Homeschooled Christmas season and how to carry those lessons into this New Year! Join us for this article and many other great things from some amazing Homeschool Mom's! You'll also find our weekly Freebie and </span><a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/free-early-readers-ebook-set-from-blue-manor-education/"><span style="font-size: large;">Giveaway Linkup</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> over there! Enjoy and have a fabulous weekend!</span> </div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;"><strong>Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;"><strong>Hebrews 4:16</strong></span></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: large;">Don't be afraid to live exactly as who God created YOU to be! For His grace, love, and light are a testimony of Christ to a lost and lonely world!</span></em></div>
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whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-58193642040885560822014-01-13T13:37:00.001-06:002014-01-13T13:37:13.939-06:00Livin' on Homeschool Time-The Organization KEY<h2 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Home School Time</u></span></h2>
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Some Serious Organization Tips</h2>
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from a <em><strike>not so </strike></em>professional Homeschool Mom!</div>
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That's right! I'm far from a professional and not even near being a Veteran at this beautiful thing we call Homeschool Life! However-I <em>am</em> a <em>real </em>Mom, educating my own children at home. Educating them very well I might add....in that thing called school, the subject named Faith, as well as that very real lesson you might label <em>life</em>!</div>
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I <strike><em>never</em></strike> always hear people say how they couldn't do this because (pick any of the following):</div>
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I'm not organized enough</div>
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I couldn't be around my kids all day</div>
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I can't even help them with their homework now</div>
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I don't have the patience</div>
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I think you get the idea! And I'm here to tell you that I'm always organized, have more patience than anyone I know, enjoy every second around my children, know the answers to everything, and have a perfectly clean house. Now wait for it......</div>
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<strong><em>YEAH RIGHT!!!</em></strong></div>
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Truth be told, I'm just like you and the next Mom. Some days I'm on top of everything and feel super together. Other days....the house and the kids win-hands down!!! My patience with my babies runs thin more than I want to admit-as does theirs with me! We are a real family doing real things, Homeschool being one of them! I love educating my children, it's an awesome experience, I have peace knowing we're right where God intends us to be, and I do enjoy it. With that being said, it IS work, full time work. It doesn't always go as planned and life is still life-homeschool or not!</div>
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With that being said, I'm here to share some tips on what <em>does</em> work for us! Whether it's our best day or a trying time, our most enjoyable lesson or we're bored out of our minds, the happiest school day or one of those days when <em>every</em>one gets in trouble....we've found one major thing that holds us together! It's all in <em>how I've managed our time</em>! I'll be breaking this into 2 main topics.</div>
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1. The Master Plan-think lessons/curriculum</h2>
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2. Daily time management</h2>
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The Master Plan</h2>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">At the beginning of the school year, decide on the number of weeks you want to school. I followed the local school district just for reference purposes. We go 36 weeks-that's four 9 week quarters.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Then, child by child, subject by subject, break everything down into weeks. Some subjects fit nice and tidy with the number of units being equal or close to the number of school weeks. Others can be more tricky and need to be broken down into Chapters or pages per week. And still others (Handwriting for us) may simply need to be broken down to how many pages need completed each week.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Record this in an easy to follow form or worksheet. I used <strong><span style="color: #351c75;"><a href="http://homeschool.mardel.com/Intro">Mardel's A Simple Plan-online version</a></span></strong> to enter and print our Master plan. It was easy and free!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Place in page protectors inside you 'Master Plan' Binder and you now have one of your own.</span></li>
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Now, let me share the <em>why </em>behind this wonderful organization tool! There have been weeks that I've had lesson plans whipped up in no time and ready to go for the week. There have been other weeks-such as those between Thanksgiving and Christmas or the week I forgot about the Childrens Hospital appointment 2.5 hours from home-that I've just had to hop on board and roll with the school day in order to keep us where we needed to be. And I could DO that...all because of my handy, dandy master plan! It took me a day or more to make it, but it's been my greatest lesson organizational tool yet! I always know where we need to be, no matter what life throws at us week by week!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m31T_d5G_SM/UtQXJb6qRMI/AAAAAAAAAv4/ilnBVLW7Eqg/s1600/2014-01-091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m31T_d5G_SM/UtQXJb6qRMI/AAAAAAAAAv4/ilnBVLW7Eqg/s400/2014-01-091.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Daily Time Management</h2>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Have a<em> set</em> time set aside for school. Life is going to happen, period. If you have a set school time it benefits in two ways. First-it makes school the priority. Second-it sets you free to step away on those days that you and/or the kids just want to bang you head on a desk!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Work subjects loosely during your school time. We are a family that likes variety. Therefore, we change up who does what first to keep it fresh. Others may benefit from a strict routine order. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. When teaching multiple children (3 for me), I teach one while the other 2 are occupied. Here are some tips to keep them busy if their work of the moment is complete....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let them 'teach' eachother</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Online supplements or educational games</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Drawing and/or coloring or doodling</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Electronic time-think educational here (Flashcards, reading, ect.)</span></div>
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(Gasp...the above is a GREAT tool when used at appropriate times)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Combine subjects when allowed-more for the fun of it than anything. For 'time organization' this obviously gets more done at one time! </span><span style="font-size: large;">This is especially great to do with hands on lessons! If your kids are like mine, everybody wants to join everybody on everything that's not Math, Reading, or Handwriting. Let that work for you-it's a great way to learn as a family! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. Assign everyone responsibilities after the school day. Not only is this absolutely necessary for character development, but it serves well to keep the day flowing well and the house in order.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. Be SURE to give them ample time to burn their energy! This can be done through formal exercise during the school day or simply letting (or making) them play outside. God gave it to them-it's our job to help them use it! In addition...it keeps the chaos level to a minimum during the<em> rest</em> of the day!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. Give the kids AND yourself daily quiet time. This may sound silly for older kids, but I promise we ALL need some down time. Todays culture fills us with constant stimulation. Obviously I enjoy the quiet (it keeps me sane), but the kids do too. I believe it's detrimental to their raising that they know how to be alone and occupy themselves with no electronics. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. At the end of the day...time's left to just be. To be ourselves, to be a family, to be home, to be with friends. Whatever serves the day best. </span></div>
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While this may seem like a no-brainer concept to some, the routine and clear expectations have served our home life well. It's served our HOMEschool life even better! Organizing our time and our days has kept me on track when everything else goes haywire-and you know we ALL have those days! </div>
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All of the paperwork, curriculum organization, school supply sorting, and checklists in the world would be null and void in our schoolroom without this basic set-up I've shared with you here! It opens the door, and the day, for the rest of that to take hold. </div>
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You could call time organization the soil in which I can plant the other organizational seeds!</div>
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So be blessed, get your<strike><em> Homeschools</em></strike> gardens ready, and continue to be uplifted with more organizational tips!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span>whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-65432638526734330552014-01-03T11:44:00.002-06:002014-01-03T11:44:35.326-06:00I've Got News!!!<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Hi friends! Just a quick little post to share some news with you! I've joined with a wonderful group of Homeschool Mom's and will be contributing over at <u><strong><span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/">HOMESCHOOL SURVIVAL</a></span></strong></u>! Check it often for great tips, experience, and information! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">You can find me writing there today! Just click <u><strong><span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://homeschoolsurvival.com/homeschool-energy-management/">Here</a></span></strong></u> to visit!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Happy New Year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">May it be filled with the love of Christ, in you and through others!</span></div>
whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-9040930871879847052013-12-10T13:46:00.000-06:002013-12-10T13:49:09.454-06:00GOD Sized Faith<div class="mobile-photo" style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Wow, those 'little' boys pictured here...these are my babies. My little men...those same that aren't so little any more. Each day they learn a little more, leave another step to life that they've already lived, they grow a bit, and they reveal another touch of who our God has created them to be. Each day is another day of chances to teach, opportunities to take, and life to live. Yes, those are two of my dearest people....how I love them so! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Next to that tree, they look <em>SO SMALL</em>. Next to the trains, <em>SO BIG</em>. Even as they grow and walk in their lives, so much of what they see and what they believe will be based on PERCEPTION. I pray I can instill in them that it should always be <strong>God</strong> and<strong> HIS word</strong> that they compare themselves to. And never the world and it's ways....through experience and through others.</span> </div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>And to teach them as I have been taught.....</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>That our faith will only be as big or as strong as our </em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>perception of God is.</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>Let me not limit or dumb down how they see our God.</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>Let me not hinder the hearts of innocent faith.</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>Let me not be in the way of knowing and seeing the God that we serve for who HE is, not who any man says He is.</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>Let their faith be alive and be <u>GOD SIZED FAITH</u>....not man sized.</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">At the end of this Shriners Day, we have a boy with a brace that's now hinged! He felt as if he was walking on the moon! A new feeling. Exciting! ALIVE!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>Let their faith be the same!</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>Let them always know and always see that each new place in their lives will require a NEW measure of faith.</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>At the end of each of those crises', those challenges, AND those blessings....will be a stretched heart, a new view, and an even deeper faith!!!</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><em>And still, it can never be as big or as grand as the one we serve!</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Today <strong>I believe God</strong> and I let <em>His</em> light shine through 'being Mom'. On my own, parenting gets messy, sticky, and even sadly disastrous at times! Only by grace and through faith do tender hearts get what they need from me. Thank you Jesus that your strength is made perfect in my weakness! And yet again, I thank you for trusting these 3 to me!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Phonics drill time....he crawled into her lap and she would whisper her answers into his ear for him to say. Now that's some great, spontaneous Pre-Schooling brought to you by Gracie!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">And on another completely unrelated note.....this is the first of 2 legwarmers for my little teacher!</span> <br />
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. </span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Hebrews 11:1</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. </span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Acts 3:16</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">What does the scripture say? Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. </span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Romans 4:3</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">According to your faith be it unto you. </span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Matthew 9:26b</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God.</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Romans 10:17</span></em></strong></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Let them always BELIEVE You God...every day of their lives and with every test of their faith!</span></div>
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whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-1789258055396355202013-12-05T09:13:00.001-06:002013-12-05T09:13:57.314-06:00To believe<h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I believe in God.</span></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I believe in the saving grace of Jesus.</span></h2><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">But....do I always <em>Believe</em> Him?!?!?!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> That's a game changer isn't it?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yes, I would say so.....</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Today, I won't believe the world. Today, I won't believe the enemy. Today, I will drown those whispers of self doubt & self conviction with a truth that's been too easily overlooked by me these days of late.....</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">He loves me with an everlasting love. Me. You. Yes, everlasting. Love. Even me. And....in spite of me. His love isn't based on <em>my </em>ideas....but <em>His</em> truths. Today, I will believe <u><strong>Him</strong></u>.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>Without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Hebrews 11:6</em></strong></span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;">Lord, let me not be conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of my mind, that I might prove what is that good, perfect, and acceptable will of YOU. (Isaiah 54:10)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><strong></strong></span> </div><br />
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whittenwinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01437834747725203972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2509500834147572956.post-52028593338160651132013-11-21T10:48:00.001-06:002013-11-21T10:51:56.616-06:00Our Perfect Bread<h2>
After playing with ingredients, a few not so great loaves, and finally sweet success.... our perfect bread recipe was born! By 'OUR' perfect, I mean that it fits my definition as perfect in that it's non-processed, so easy, and full of nutrition! If you're more interested in those things, you can read about how a few simple steps can help your family over<u> </u><a href="http://stoppraylisten.blogspot.com/2013/11/5-huge-baby-steps-to-eating-whole-and.html">here at this post</a><u>.</u> You'll find a challenge there as well! So drum roll please.........</h2>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><em>Our Perfect Bread</em></u></span></h3>
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And pictured here, I threw some bulgar wheat on top and pressed in before baking!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 Cup Honey (I use local)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In Mixer, mix Butter (room temp is best), 4 C. of the wheat flour, Flax Seed Meal, Salt, Honey, and HOT water. Go ahead and put your mixer up unless you have one of those bad boys that will mix dough with no worries. I don't, so I go it by hand from here. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Add Yeast, stir a couple of times just until you get it moved into the mixture good. Add the other 2 C of your wheat flour and work into dough. This is where you have to put some muscle into it, but that's okay-it works! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now here's where it might get intimidating! Bread making is one of those things best taught in person because you're going for just the right consistency in your dough. But once you get it down, you can bake bread with your eyes closed! It can differ each time with the humidity level and just because I guess. So, just know you are going for dough that stays together good (or pulls away from the sides of your bowl) and isn't too sticky to work with. To get there, add flour a little at a time (this is where I start using my white flour). And to be honest, sometimes I don't even get it to where it's 'unsticky' before moving to the next step! When I do that, I just throw in more flour all over the dough and my hands when shaping it for loaves! Anyhow~when you've added enough flour to have your dough ready, stick a clean towel over your bowl and set it aside for about 5 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Grease your bread pans while you're waiting. I use 3 loaf pans and make rolls on a flat pan out of my remainder of dough. These are a wonderful, fresh baked snack for the kiddos.....and keeps them from sneaking a pinch of off my cooling loaves!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Okay-back to your bowl! PUNCH that baby down a time or two! And...work your loaves and rolls out~ This is where extra flour comes in handy! How sticky, or not, your dough is, tells you how much flour you need to use! I don't go by rules here, just by look and feel! If it's sticking to your hands-throw more flour in and work your balls! Lengthen your balls into a loaf shape-then SPANK them to get rid of any bubbles! Yes....this is my favorite part of the process! There's something stress relieving about spanking raw dough....weird, I know! Put dough into loaf pans and stick them in your preheated oven. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let rise at this temp for about 30 minutes. When it looks about the size you want your final product to be...bump up the temp to 350 degrees (with the bread still in the oven) and bake another 20-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when it starts getting golden on top and makes a hollow sound when knocked on!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">AND REMEMBER....</span></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-large;">But He answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Matthew 4:4</span></strong></em></div>
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