What's making my home sing this week??

Click on the button for more: make your home sing!

I'm sooo excited to be off the school schedule and on to the summer schedule.  

Lately, I've been thinking about this post: the principles of organizing and I've been wondering if I am really following my own advice.  

I have a lovely space downstairs.  Here are some pictures. 

These were all the "after" pictures of a major cleanup session last summer.  It looks different today, but even at it's best, it's still pretty "full".  I told Jo, "this place is pregnant and ready to pop"  to which she graciously said, "What imagery.. kind of graphic?"

There's nothing wrong with this, but it is still not really what I want for that room.  

Tonight I went down to the craft/ play room and made a list:

What is the primary purpose of this room?

1. Sewing/ crafts

2. Storing toys/ playroom

3. Overnight guests (kids)

4. Office Supplies on desk

What things are actually being stored in there?

1. Sewing supplies: machines, fabric, projects etc.

2. Toys: about a ton of them

3. sleeping bags, pillows, etc. from guests that were here last night

4. ironing (exactly 3 big piles) plus iron, ironing board,etc.

5. a desk, a rocking chair, a lot of tables.. (too much furniture)

6. 17 million miscellaneous craft supplies

7. enough office supplies to start a small business

8. a ton of homeschooling books

9. exercise equipment

10. 10 million photographs and scrapbooking supplies

So, my first task was to try to create a vision of how I want the finished space to look.  Even though I'm a creative person, I'm really stifled by visual overload.  I have a hard time getting interested in crafts at all when things are so overwhelming. So, I'm not entirely sure what I want it to look like when I'm done, but I know I want LESS stuff.. a lot less stuff!!

I need to identify the things that are totally dragging me down.

1. Scrapbooking/ photographs: I'm going to say this at the risk of offending 2/3 of my readers.  I hate scrapbooking.  I have saved all of the artwork and pictures and junk for the last 18 years purely out of guilt.  I think I will hire my kids to help me put this to bed once and for all this summer.  I think if my kids and I work on it together, we can crank through this and be done with old photographs.  The new ones are on the computer, so they aren't dragging me down--just the old stuff.

2. Rug hooking project: I have enough dyed wool to carpet the front lawn in a hooked rug.  I need to put this to bed also.  Maybe I'll invite all of my friends over for a "build and design your own rug" and get rid of all of the supplies??

3. Too many toys for one four year old.  Even if we were to adopt an entire orphanage, I don't think we'd run out of things to do around here.  Perhaps we could downsize the toys a little??

So, I'll keep you posted.  I find this challenging enough to make me feel like homemaking is a real job, and yet relaxed enough that "any mom could do this!".. so that is what is making my ole home sing. 

Having overnight guests: preparation!

If the thought of having someone over for dinner really scares you, then the thought of having an overnight guess might cause a stress-induced panic attack.  Don't worry.  We'll take this is small, manageable steps.  

Right now, let's just get the house organized.  (Oh, that will take all summer, eh?  Perhaps, you can have your first overnight guests in August or September)  

I must confess ONE of the main reasons that I attempt to get/ keep my home organized is my love for hospitality.  It is insane enough around here with 3 teens, one tween, and a busy preschooler.. why would I want to add to the confusion by adding hospitality into the mix?  

Well, I am a little nutsoid, but I also take that old Bible command, "show hospitality without grumbling" thing seriously.  Without grumbling?  It's very easy to grumble when you feel that your home is going to burst with the confusion of your own family, let alone someone else's!  

So, back to getting organized.  Maybe the Lord gave us a hospitality command in order to get us organized? Either way, it's hard to show hospitality when the house is bomb... (believe me, I've tried).  Yes, I have and probably will continue to show hospitality when the house is a wreck.  Life is NOT perfect, and the desire the show hospitality is greater than my need/love for a perfect home.  But I feel the stress of it being chaotic, and that makes me grumbly...  so I have no other choice than to get organized.  

1) Declutter the common living areas and the guest room:  Even if you feel the entire house, garage, attic, and storage shed needs help, start with the main rooms of the house that guests will normally have access.  In my mind these are:

bathroom (guest)/linen closet

laundry room

kitchen/dining area

living area

guest bedroom

De-cluttering is the easiest form of organization.  It just involves getting junk out of there.  Less is more.  If you have to have a lot of stuff in one room, conceal it with adequate storage facilities.  

Why do we need to de-clutter for guests??

1) Visual tranquility:  When someone enters your home, you want them to feel welcome.  Think about the last time you went to someone's home.  First impressions are huge, aren't they?  

Think of a home with stuff bursting out of garage to greet you.  What if you have to walk in sideways, in order to get in the house?  Or what if you can hardly hold a conversation with the person because there is visual stimulus overload--everywhere???  Do you feel welcome there?  Is it fun? or stressful?  

O.K. now.. think of a home.. a simple home with run-down furniture and average accommodations.  In this home, there is just enough furniture and things in the room, even if they are a bit shabby.  There's a happy vase of flowers on the crude coffee table and a clear path to the house.  Things are orderly.  They are not fancy; they are just orderly.  Wouldn't this be a fun home to visit?  Now, if the home were larger and fancier, it would be fine but not necessary. Instead of fancy works of art, the hallways are lined with framed pictures of the childrens' artwork.  The bathroom needs a remodel, but the guest towels are easy enough to find!  The closet in the guest room has a little space carved out in which to put hanging items.  Splendid! 

This is a great place to start for having overnight guests--decluttering the main living areas of the home. 

  

 

blitz-It Friday # 11 the garage update

Hey! It's time to blitz-it again. For those of you who are just blitzing for the first time, here are some great starting points.

Basically, blitzing is forcing ourselves to focus for a set period of time on hands-on tasks.

Originally, I wrote about the one hour blitz and staying focused.

Also, blitzing with kids is a helpful place to start.

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Well, last week, I started the garage.  I knew that it would take more than one blitz to get this place up to speed.  

The blue mats were moved, and grain storage was moved under the shelf.

So, this is basically what the garage looked like a week ago (after the blitz)

Since then, I did three one hour blitzes and one family blitz to get it to the point it is now.  Can you say: exhausting??? No wonder I slept in the next day!!  

Basic things accomplished during the sessions:

1) all grey storage boxes sorted through and cleaned out.

2) 4 boxes were completely emptied and contents in the donation pile

3) Kids and hubby hung a cupboard and all car supplies were placed in cupboard and car-maintenance area.  (Yes, I allow him to leave things on the counter..in the garage)

4) Bikes organized

5) old countertops and miscellaneous junk placed in big van to be dropped off.  

6) swept out garage

7) and finally Jamie was thrilled to:

PUT the CAR in the GARAGE!!  (First time in a long time!)  TA DA!!  

The real question is: how long will it stay neat???  

So, I hope you have enjoyed your weekly blitzing! I love it when you guys tell me what you've been doing!

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Principles of Organizing a space

It's been a while since I've actually done an "organizing" post, but this is the time of year when I do a lot of organizing.  Before I begin, let me say this.  

My personality type is not naturally organized.  I'm not naturally given to order.  I like expression, art, and creativity.  I like big projects, and then I let someone else handle the details.  

If you are a detailed person, organizing comes naturally.  But if you are just not organized naturally, there is still HOPE for you.  I really think those of us who have had to work against our natural tendencies to get organized are the most excited to blog, write, and teach others about it. 

All that to say: if I can do it, so can you!

1) DEFINING THE SPACE:  We all have a limited space in which to organize.  Think of the space (such as a room) as a tool, not a problem.  Be thankful for the space.  "I have a living room.. thank you, God, for the living room"

2) CONTROL THE SPACE: So many of us let our spaces control us, rather than us controlling them.  Remember, you are the human in this project.  God gave you the brain.  You are the one in charge.  If you can't imagine what it would be like to control that space, remove everything out of it.  Now you you have an empty space, and you did it.  

3) ASSIGN THE SPACE A PURPOSE: What is the function of this space?  What do we want to accomplish here?  What goes on here?  (Rather than stuffing the space with strange items, only let items in that add to the purpose of the space) 

4) ENSURE THE PRIMARY PURPOSE: Only put back in items that lend themselves to the primary purpose of the space.    (Is this a storage space?  No. then, stop storing all of your college text books in the living room.  You finished college 20 years ago, are you still reading them?)  

5) ASSIGN HOMES: Once you have decided WHAT you actually do want in the room, make it a point to return those items back to their homes.  For some rooms, I would suggest making labels, with pictures for each item.   For nicely decorated rooms, I don't like the big label saying "Bibles go on this shelf, you idiots" or something like that.  

6)INFORM THE INMATES: If you establish a new system for a room, you have to inform your subjects that the queen has changed the kingdom around a little bit.  Not that they'll really pay attention, but it is a nice gesture.  If they have no clue where things go, when you are playing "arm-chair general" during the blitzing with kids, they will soon learn!  (Oh, what fun it is to live at my house, eh??)  

7) ENJOY THE SPACE:  Now that you have a new space, don't keep adding "junk" to the space.  Be self controlled about it.  Assign a storage area to your house, or rent storage.   Stay in control of the space, and you will enjoy it.  

This is what totally works for me! 

Tackle it Tuesday: the garden and going green update

We had beautiful weather here this Memorial Day, and it was a great time to do a little outside work, as well as some fun.  This week I got the seeds in the ground, and I am doing a HUGE garden.  So, we need to fend off the critters with... chicken wire!!

My dear sweetheart set up a work crew and the kids got the chicken wire around the back fence that keeps the cows out of our yard (some of the time) and separates our neighbors property from ours!

They also put up a compost bin!  Yeah, I am an Official organic gardener now that I have a compost bin!!

Well, let's not get too organic.. I still appreciate the weed trimmer.  Thanks, sweetie.

You really "gave 'er" as they say up north.

Oh, be still my heart!!  My little seeds are coming up!!

Lettuce??  

Yes, yummy lettuce.  That is why the whole thing needs a chicken wire fence!

Speaking of gardening, I think I am a watering fanatic.  Every day I'm out there watering like a mad woman.  Well! We haven't had rain, what is a girl to do?  I'm too insecure NOT to let these things come up.  My whole self esteem rests on this, you know!!  (Why do I have to be so type A about EVERYTHING???)   Do you ever get exhausted from just being with yourself?  Well, I do.  

Hardly a day goes by and I'm not teased, really teased by my teenagers about all of this "going green fanaticism" I think I have accomplished everything on my list.

This was my original list...

1. I'd like to find out where you can drop-off recyclables in the Rockford area.

found it--Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful/ Open on Saturdays only 9-12

2. I need to set up a schedule of when and how often I plan to go.

once a month!  

3. I need to set up a system in my garage for collecting things that is user-friendly.

Done!  I cleaned the garage and set up containers.

Other things I'd like to do:

1. Make some cloth napkins and use those regularly.

Not yet, this will be fun!

2. Use and bring my own cloth shopping bags to the grocery store.

Did it! Although I often forget them in the car!!  So, were about 50/50 with this.

3. Bring a pyrex container in my purse when I go to restaurants, so I don't need to use styrofoam for leftovers.  

Haven't been out to eat yet!

4. Make my husband lunch, so he doesn't need to eat out as much.

Sometimes I make it; other times he does.

5. Join freecycle and list a few items.

yes, I have given away five items already

6. Read about composting--not sure how to do this and if it is feasible.

I not only read about it; I have a bin already!

7. List things on Craig's list before they get too old.

I sold one thing on ebay.  The rest I am giving away.

YeaH!!! 

Oh, and I didn't get this motivation from some sort of internal force. Keeper of the Home wrote a great ebook called: Healthy Homemaking.  So, I think I'm on my second chapter now.  If I have a gardening update, it will be on tackle it tuesday each week.

For more tackles: 5 Minutes for Mom Tackle it Tuesday.

blitz-It Friday # 10: the garage!

Hey! It's time to blitz-it again. For those of you who are just blitzing for the first time, here are some great starting points.

Basically, blitzing is forcing ourselves to focus for a set period of time on hands-on tasks.

Originally, I wrote about the one hour blitz and staying focused.

Also, blitzing with kids.

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This week is our first official week of vacation.  We finished off the summer schedule with music, school, and extra curricular activities. I finished planting the garden seeds, and  I even got my grades done! Whew! But now I have to deal with my messy house.  

The weather has been beautiful this week so it was a great time to go through the garage.

The first goal was to "clear a path" through the garage.  This was done in a one blitz session with Hudson.  I do not have a before picture of that, but this is what it looked like afterwards. 

Basically, I am going to tell you that organizing a big space takes many many sessions.  Sometimes it is hard to get going on a huge project like the garage for fear that it is too big.  That is why I developed the blitz, so we can feel like we've accomplished something in an hour, without getting overwhelmed.

So, my next goal was to set up recycling containers so they are easily accessible.  In order to do that, I moved the gym mats to the center of the garage and set up recycling on top/ side of them. So, those were set up in the blitz for this week, as well as: 

going through the many grain buckets and figuring out which were empty and full and getting them in a more accessible location.  The black container is part of the recycling endeavor.  

My next goal is to go through all of those many gray boxes and check and see if their contents are really worth saving!  After all, it's nice to have little gray containers but what good is it, if you are just saving JUNK?  And what seemed to be precious one year is often deemed "junk" by the next year.  LOL. 

So, I hope you have enjoyed your weekly blitzing! I love it when you guys tell me what you've been doing!

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I ate it, and I didn't die... yet.

This will probably be the first post in a long line of funny food posts, since part of my mid-life crisis is getting organized with my health.  This is my summer to get healthy.. [weird!!!].  Thanks to that Healthy Homemaking lady, Stephanie--who has WAY too much energy and that crazy ebook that is filling my head with nonsense.. [healthy ideas].

It all started so innocuously with the green smoothies, and now we are venturing toward all new heights of strange-dom  with.............. can you guess???

Homemade yogurt!!!  That's right.  I'm going to take perfectly normal milk and "culture" it.  So, while it is listening to Brahms............. (getting cultured) and sitting in the crockpot with already cultured yogurt  (getting more cultured), it slowly morphs into a yogurt.  

Before you know it, we have MORE yogurt. I followed the Crockpot yogurt recipe.  Now I just went ahead and dumped yogurt into the HOT milk, which probably killed it. So, then I had to let it cool down enough and put more of it in there, and it still worked.  

And yes, I put sugar in there.  What do you think I am, insane?  It was pretty good, once I got over my fears of eating milk that sat on my counter for what seemed to be a long time!  

So, there you go.  I didn't die, and before I am done with this adventure, making yogurt will be just a normal part of my life.  

Having guests over: the elderly

Having the elderly over for a meal is such a blessing!  I can not tell you how it warms my heart to think of the seniors that have graced our table over the years.  Some have already gone to be with the Lord, so it is so special to know that we had them over and enjoyed them while they were on earth.  

Really, everyone is special, but there is something unique about those who have walked with the Lord through the trials of this life and are at that beautiful, sunset age of life.

So, are there any special concerns for entertaining the elderly?

1) SAFETY:  If there was ever a motivation to get the place clear of clutter, it would be now.  It is so hard for the elderly the navigate between toys and friendly kid stuff all over.  What we might see as a nuisance could be a safety hazard for them.  They often have a hard time seeing, walking, or hearing.  The problem is that often they won't even tell you that they can't see or hear or get through the hall in order to not seem "troublesome".    So, it is important to watch them carefully to see if they are struggling.  Make sure there is a clear path to the bathroom also. 

2)SEATING: (for the non-eating part of the visit) I used to think that the elderly person would like the nice soft, cushy chair to sit in.  Most often, they really prefer a hard back chair.  Getting up and out of chairs can be very difficult, so the less they "sag" into the chair, the better.  If they are at your home for an extended period of time, they may prefer a recliner to "rest" in, but not usually if they have to stay alert and make conversation! 

3) SEATING: (for the eating) Try to have them sit (in a hard-backed chair, not a bench) in an easily accessible place.  If you have a small dining area, you may want to consider moving a table to the living room.  

4) EATING:  It's just best to ask them what they are able to eat and not eat.  If they have dentures, it may be hard to eat certain foods like corn on the cob.  Most elderly people are very gracious and willing to eat whatever you serve, but it is nice to ask for preferences.  They tend not to like overly spicy foods, unless they were former missionaries or something!  Our generation is far more accustomed to the Mexican influence than the older generation.  

5) OTHER CONCERNS:  Also, watch for signs of choking when eating.  My grandpa was famous for choking on his food, and others may be prone to this as well.  It may overkill to suggest getting CPR certified, but I after I finished my training, I was well aware that I may some day have to use this in my own home some day--especially with all of the guests we have.  

6) CONVERSATION:  If you have godly, gracious elderly people over, they may be so intent to ask you so many questions that you may forget to ask them a few also!  If you do get the opportunity, ask them about their lives, their children, their work, their loves and passions.  Ask them how they got through hard times.  Ask them what kept their faith strong through the years.  Ask them if they have any advice for young families trying to raise children in this day and age..  

7)NOISE LEVEL: We forget how quiet their homes are, or more specifically how LOUD ours are!  If your guests have hearing problems or are wearing hearing aids, the sensory overload of the home can be overwhelming.  Other than putting a muzzle on the kids, dogs, instruments and chaos, it may be good to practice a few quiet sessions.  

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Some wonderful experiences with an elderly couple...

When we first moved to Rockford, I was so drawn to Ben and Fran Larsen.  They both just radiated with love for the Lord Jesus.  We had only been in our home a week or so, so we had to "clear a path" to have them over for a meal.  I remember wanting to honor the elderly, so we chose them to be the first guests in our home.  

Fran was the perfect example of a godly older woman.  She expected nothing, appreciated everything and was content and sensible about life.  Her husband, Ben, was failing in health but she stood by his side, taking care of his every need.  Ben went to be with the Lord a few years ago.  Prior to this,  they both moved to the Grand Rapids area to be near their children.  I only had a short window of time with them, but I would have never gotten to know them if it hadn't been for hospitality.  

Fran would say, "It's so nice to see young families serving the Lord"  and "You (me) remind me of my mother."  (what a huge compliment!)  I've had more than one elderly woman tell me that I reminded them of their mother.  (Maybe it's the apron I wear!)  Either way, there's so much blessing in having  the elderly over, that I hope you'll take the risk!  

Other posts in the hospitality series:

On Hospitality:

Hospitality: a new series part 1

Hospitality, a mark of a gracious Christian part 2

Hospitality:serving a meal part 1

Hospitality: serving a meal part 2

Hospitality: serving a meal part 3 (to your peers)

Hospitality: serving a meal to foreigners

Menu plan .. not so healthy mommy

So I unwrapped my Taco Bell burrito supreme and started chowing it down.  The other moms at the table looked at me and stared.  

"We didn't know you ate that kind of stuff?"

Me: "What, this?  It's good and cheap!"

"Well, we just thought you were into healthy.."

Me: When I'm at home, I try to do healthy.  When I'm out, it's about cheap (and fast).  

At that point, I should have conjured up a big burp, if I were the big burping type, which I'm not.  

So, now you know.  I'm a burping burrito kind of not-so-healthy mom wanna-be.  What is the world coming to?  

That was last Tuesday, our last day of Hallstrom and our last day of school.  There was so much sugar and junk food there on that day that we're still flying.. and crashing from it. 

So, this Tuesday I'll be sitting here at home, just wondering what to do with all of my free time.  I'll probably have to start a committee or club or a non-profit organization with all of my extra time.  What I really should do is start a support group: the obsessive compulsive joiners and starters... for people who have no idea what to do with five minutes of unscheduled time... really.  

O.K. so I really am not going to be sitting at home, I'll be subbing pilates on Tuesday, so I really won't be so frantic about not having enough to do.  I'll just be trying to find ways to get my "six pack abs" so show up underneath that muffin top they're hiding under. I'm buff.. really.  It's just all warm and protected under the snuggle layer... Oh, the joys of being a middle-aged mommy in this snuggle pack.. 

So, back to the ranch... what are we having for dinner this week?  

Friday: fajitas

Saturday: shepherd's pie

Sunday: butter chicken/ brown rice (Indian)

Monday: chicken packets

Tuesday: chili con carne

Wednesday: swamp dish

Thursday: Italian beef and polenta

For more menus: organizing junkie's MPM.

Now I love it, but then I hated it.

When I was a younger mom, I would get all wrapped around the axle and have a hard time rejoicing when everyone else's kids were doing fabulous things like this and this  or this.

I was a young mom, sitting with my kids in the auditorium watching the homeschoolers "perform" and get awards, and instead of being completely encouraged, I was overwhelmed and discouraged.  My oldest was six years old.  We had three that were younger than him, and I could barely get dinner on.  How on EARTH were we EVER going to get to the stage where these kids are?  I had a LATE reader.  My kids were afraid of strangers (no social skills).  We lived in North Dakota (no opportunities).  I really had some nice friends, but really nothing could pull me out of my depression.  Basically all I could think of was this: My kids and I are all loosers--why are we doing this anyway?  

So, like what happened?  

Time. 

Blessings come from obedience, and obedience takes time.

So, we all grew up.  I learned a few basic lessons.

1. The gold producing goose (the mother) needs to be fed in order to produce more gold. 

I found ways to feed myself: physically, spiritually, mentally, intellectually etc.  without having to do something drastic like leave the home and find a career.  

For me this involved: taking time out from having babies, eating nutritious food, getting exercise, getting out of the house for a few hours a week to do something I enjoy (without kids), and nurturing friendships with people of like mind.   I found that I was a better mother, wife, homemaker and everything if I had some time for pursuits other than laundry.

There are a class of Christian women out there who would call this "me time", and that of course, is very unspiritual.  I guess the truth is this.  I am not spiritual enough to fathom not having this "time" for myself.  I am a happy, content person because of it.  Like anything, it can get out of control.  Just take enough to "come apart and rest a while".

2. I also learned that it is the long-term desires of our hearts that eventually rise to the top in child raising.  If academic excellence is your goal, it WILL show up in children eventually.  If you want your kids to perform well in music, that will happen also.  Sometimes the rose stays in the bud a long time before it blooms.  We may not see any evidence of these things when our children are really young, and that is O.K.  The younger years are about character training and obedience.  As long as you, as parents, put time, money, energy and effort into directing your children toward the path you would like them to go, they will get there eventually.  (I'm speaking of practical things, not spiritual things)  Spiritual training is more complex, and we are still feverishly doing that, so I'm not sure I should make comments yet! 

3. I am also trying to learn that: it's not all about me!  So, I may never get over this one entirely!!  I can just sit back and rejoice in all the great things that others are doing and just let that encourage my socks off.   So, when I hear about how fabulous the homeschool basketball team did at Nationals, even though my kids can't do sports for beans, I can rejoice in the fabulous talents of my friends' kids.  See? wasn't that fun.  Everyone is unique, and we should rejoice and praise the Lord for it.  

Blitz-It Friday # 9

Hey! It's time to blitz-it again. For those of you who are just blitzing for the first time, here are some great starting points.

Basically, blitzing is forcing ourselves to focus for a set period of time on hands-on tasks.

Originally, I wrote about the one hour blitz and staying focused. 

Also, blitzing with kids.

So, this weekend we tilled the garden plot.  Here is Jo helping.

Hey, this machine is fun!

So, for my blitzes this week, I did one hour planting sessions.  Basically, I did one on Sunday, one on Monday, and two today.  I can hardly believe it that I am only about half done with the garden.  This thing is HUGE!  What was I thinking???

Even though I had already tilled, I had to loosen up the soil, put the compost in, and add some peat moss and then plant the seeds or the plants.  Today I planted: lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, brussel sprouts, asparagas, beans, melons, and onions.  Before we planted: pumpkins, corn,  watermelon, eggplant, carrots, and cilantro.  

Am I insane or what??  I'm getting overwhelmed just thinking about this huge thing.  But I am very excited about it too.  I am a totally NEW gardener, so I've been watching a lot of gardening videos by Ed Bruske:  Gardening   and Composting.  It is very easy to learn from this guy!  I even emailed him and asked questions and he answered back.  I feel like I've met a celebrity.  If the truth be known, I had to have a hat just like his, AND a fork spade too.  NOW, I feel like a real gardener. 

Also, we did a huge blitz as a family today, since school is officially OVER!!  Wooot de Doot!

Kids blitzing chores:

Jamie: vacuum steps/ landing, loading DW, clean room, 

Jo: clean room, put away dishes, clean bathroom #1

Hud: clean room, carry compost to garden, wash floor in bathrooms and kitchen, handwash

Than: clean room, put away laundry, clean bathroom #2, after meal help

Emily: go to nursery with Mommy and pick out plants, help water the garden, put away toys, 
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So, I hope you have enjoyed your weekly blitzing!  I love it when you guys tell me what you've been doing!

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Having guests/ foreigners over for a meal

I'm still talking about having people over for dinner.  If you haven't been reading regularly, you may want the many hospitality articles are listed: 

On Hospitality:

Hospitality: a new series part 1

Hospitality, a mark of a gracious Christian part 2

Hospitality:serving a meal part 1

Hospitality: serving a meal part 2

Hospitality: serving a meal part 3 (to your peers)

Sometimes hospitality stretches us jusssssssttttalittle.......like this week.  My husband's job requires him to teach classes to foreigners.  Usually they all go out to dinner, and but this time we invited them over for a meal. So, yesterday, we had two German adults in our home for dinner.  One was a female (unmarried about 25) and the other was a male (married, about 38).  They spoke English, but their first language was German.  

If you think we are in the habit of entertaining Germans often, you are wrong.  Even for someone who normally breezes through hospitality adventures, I was a tad unnerved because it is rumored that German woman keep immaculate homes.  I have no idea if this is true, but the word immaculate just is not in my vocabulary, let alone my home!

We have entertained quite a few foreigners over the years, not just Germans.  Off the top of my head, I can list: Australian, Brazilian, Chinese, Taiwanese,  French, Indian, British, Scottish, and German.  

So, here are the BASICS of having foreigners over.  

Our experience has been that the foreigners are extremely well-mannered, gracious, and absolutely delightful.  They are NOT as scary as you might think.  I would highly encourage anyone to have foreigners over for a meal, if they ever get the chance.

1) FOOD: My basic rule of thumb is this: DO NOT try to imitate their style of cooking.  They will be gracious and generally "MUCK it on down", but this is not in good style.  Try to serve a meal that your family likes that is not offensive to their palate.  

RICE: Most Asians and Latinos not only want but NEED rice at every meal.  It sounds insane to us, but they feel like they haven't eaten if they do not get rice.  The best thing to do is let them cook it.  Ask where to buy the rice and what brand and whatever, and let them cook it.  We just can not do it like they do.  

SPICES: People from India really like spicy food.  They will just feel like they can hardly get this bland food down without spices, so I like to have HOT sauce on the table.  It always gets used.  

COFFEE: Europeans (and Americans) love coffee.  Learn how to make a good, strong coffee.  Buy a coffee maker for guests, even if you do not drink it.  

UTENSILS: Most people who travel to the U.S. are capable of using forks, knives, spoons and regular utensils, but they may be encouraged to use chopsticks (or their hands, India) or use the utensils in a different way.  In the U.S. we use a different style of eating; whereas, the Europeans use a continental style.   Actually, I've known many Americans who have adopted the continental style also, but generally is distinctly European.  

TEA:  Brits and other U.K. residents, as well as New Zealanders and Australians love tea.  If you could learn to make a decent pot of tea (with the tea leaves, not the bags) this would make them feel very special.  Also, offer the milk and sugar before the tea, so they can put it in first.  

FOOD AVERSIONS: Just like we do not find chicken bones in the soup very appetizing, other cultures have other quirks of things they would call offensive.  This would be an impossibly long post to write if I tried to include it here, so let's just assume that unless you are familiar with the culture, you should do some research.

2) CONVERSATION:  Conversing with foreigners is often a lot more work.  But it is a good thing to take the risk, since there's so many wonderful things to learn.

SPEAK SLOWLY/ DO NOT USE SLANG: English is a hard language to learn, so we have to use standard expressions and very BLAND language in order to communicate effectively with them.  And if you are from the north like me, slow speaking is just not something I do.  When you get that blank stare (like I frequently do in these situations), remember that they are working really hard to listen, and we need to slow it down. 

Prior-knowledge:  You really should do some research on the country they are from in order to ask intelligent questions about it.  People are honored when you know anything about their country, and it is so fun to learn things!!  (If you do not have any time to research, I will list my fall back conversation starters !)

Also, it is very common for them to respond graciously by asking you some questions about your area.  Do you know enough about your area to answer intelligently?  Unless you are a third grade teacher, you may need to refresh your memory on your local area.  

My fallback questions:

1. So, what have you had time to do while you have been in the states?  

2.  How do the prices compare here?  Have you been shopping?

3. What are some of the items that you were able to find  that you could not find in (Germany?)

4. What is your home city/ village known for?  

5.  If I were to visit (Germany), what is one thing that I would really want to see?  

And things they may ask you about your city?

1. So, how old is (Rockford)?  

2. What is the primary industry here?

3. What sorts of things do people do for fun?  

4. How does it compare with living in (Chicago)?  

5. What is the average snowfall?  How many days of winter?  

Well, I hope that will get you started in the delightful experience of having people from another country over for a meal! 

Who wouldn't be proud of this?

A friend once accused me of being too proud of my kids.  I'm here to tell ya that she had it ALL WRONG.

  What she really should have said is she is excessively proud of her kids.. or just gloatingly full of hubris over her kids..  That might have come close, but for now I'll let those who like to talk about me work those details out.   

So, what did the kid do already?  

At Hallstrom (our homeschool co-op) they have the end of the year banquet for recognizing kids who do high level work.  Joanna got highest honors in three classes: Algebra I, Spanish I and Advanced Art.  She got 2nd place for the VFW Patriotic Art Contest (which included a small cash scholarship) and the Hallstrom scholarship for the freshman girls (which is a combination of high academics and Christian character).  So, 3 academic honors and 2 scholarships!  

Wow!  We couldn't be prouder, Jo-Snazz!  She had a wonderful year and made some really nice friends also. We are so blessed to be a part of such a neat co-op!  All of our kids did well this year, but it was so nice to see Joanna get such appreciation.  She really is a good kid who loves the Lord.  (and Mommy and Daddy are not at ALL biased or proud!)  

Tackle it Tuesday: the garden!!

Before I get into this tackle, I HAVE to show you these pictures.

Here is Joanna flanked by two friends: Caroline and Shannen.

Jo and her big brother, Jamie.

The tall guy is Shawn (Shannen's brother) in the back.  They were all going out to a homeschool  "Inaugural Ball".  It was the end of the year party for the 8th--12th graders at our co-op.  Will and I sneaked into the ball and looked out over the balcony.  It was so sweet to see the kids enjoying themselves in a wholesome way.  

They only had a day to recover before: the GARDEN PROJECT...

Before right side..  Look at the tree and the grass.  That area is now all plowed up to the left side of the tree.  First, they burned down the burn pile.

Before Right side.  If you look at the two yellow bushes in the back, you can use that as a visual gauge to see how big the garden became...

We rented a tiller and tripled the size of the existing garden plot.  On the right we have already started planting some seeds.

We have planted about 1/3 of it.  I am trying a bunch of different seeds.  

So, keep looking here for more garden progress each week!  For more tackles, visit 5 minutes for mom.  And don't forget to check back on Thursday night to link up your blitzing!!  

The essence of discipline and MPM

The essence of discipline..

I guess I'm in one of those high-brow thought modes, since I've been thinking about this for a day or so.. ruminating... as I till my garden.  (Yes, I ruminate--like a cow--when I'm outdoors in the garden).  I have no idea how many vegetables will garnish my table this fall, but I will probably end up solving all of the world's problems this summer out in the weed patch.. I mean haven of well cultivated soil and seedlings.  LOL!

So, with all that ramble... I am thinking about discipline, self-control, and developing good work habits.  I know we ALL struggle with this.  The reason I know this is because of the sin nature.  It just does not look the same in everyone.  

When you see a person out jogging, do you think: now that's discipline!  I wish I could have that type of discipline?  

Well, if you think about it, that jogger may just be out there because he enjoys it.  In fact, most runners LOVE it.  They claim to get a "high" from running.  So, in reality, are they really being disciplined at that moment?  Maybe. maybe not.  Maybe they are just doing what they love to do.  In fact, they might be running and enjoying it just to avoid the pain of eating healthy. Maybe they are running when they should be at home paying bills.  (nothing against runners--I'm trying to learn to do it)

And then we see a VERY large person who is taking a brisk walk.  Do we think: what an undisciplined slob? If we do, we are NOT thinking clearly.  Here's why.  The large person who is taking a walk--especially a moderately paced walk-- is fighting uphill in his mind and body to get out there and do it.  At the moment (at least) he or she is at the very height of discipline because they are forcing themselves to do exactly what 1. they should do 2. when they do not want to do it.  

You see, there is the key. When at any moment you are actually doing what you should be doing (whether it is eating, working, sleeping, writing, cooking, working out, etc.) when you should be doing it, it is discipline.  The degree to which you are enjoying yourself is somewhat arbitrary in relation to discipline.  We have become a lazy and unhappy culture for that reason.  

When you start doing what you are supposed to be doing, regardless of how you feel about it, you choose the longer rewards and thereby gaining happiness in the process.   And then, guess what?  There's hardly anything left that you don't want to do anymore, since you've chosen to be happy about everything.  Simple? yes. Easy? of course not.   Then, if you do find something you do not want to do, blitz  it. That's right.  Just do it faster.  Even if it is a completely awful thing in your mind, doing it faster will make two things happen.  

1) You will have the satisfaction of actually accomplishing it--or at least most of it.

2) Even if you hate every minute of the task, your adrenaline will be up and going by moving faster through it.  Adrenaline working is good.  You'll receive the added endorphins from a brisk work session--even doing something you hate.  

If you want to join us for a blitz on Friday, I'd be thrilled beyond belief.  

This week's menu is:

Monday: Roasted Pork Loin and Smashed Fingerlings, green tossed salad

Tuesday: Tortellini and marinara sauce, salad

Wednesday: Beans and rice

Thursday: chicken pot pie

Friday: Shopping day--new menu starts..  and 

Sunday: (Indian food: butter chicken, my version) 

for more menus, organizing junkie's MPM.

Pink and Green Swap

Sarah, from Blue CASTLE, hosted a "pink and green swap" where we were paired up with another blogger who had similar bents/ interests and swapped a bunch of pink and green things.  Well, I think I scored "big" when they set me up with Corrie of CoCoJ Designs.  

There was green thread

and pink thread.. and a cute flower pin.. (which I wore last Sunday and got lots of neat comments) which I noticed that she is selling in her ETSY shop.

and this cute fabric house design/ mini-mural Joshua 24:5, which I plan to attach to an apron.

And a bar of soap in a sponge bag, some pink marshmallows, homemade greeting cards, a bracelet AND a fridge magnet.  I would highly encourage anyone to go to here etsy shop and check it out.  Let's support Christian mommy bloggers in their businesses, OK?  

Her style is so...freestyle and fun!  She takes risks, and they work!  After looking at her crafts, I'm inspired to be a little less stuffy and let loose.. and have more FUN with my crafts.  Maybe that's why I have a basement full of fabric?  I'm waiting for something big to come along.  I can tell that she doesn't let a day pass and she's crafting her heart out, just enjoying the moment--the colors, the fabrics, the happiness of it all.  

Thanks Sarah for hosting this.  I would do it again.  Ooooh, I can't wait to see what everyone got!

Don't forget to put a comment here, if you want to be included in the chance to win $200.00 gift card from OfficeMax. Blogher.

More free and good stuff.

I have been so into this FREECYCLE thing that my family is starting to tease me. We sat down and talked about all of the many things that were going on this weekend, and after we went through the schedule of what everyone was doing, Jamie said,

"yup. that's all we have planned until every other day someone shows up collecting something mom's listed on freecycle"

and then Hud jumps in,"Hey! free couch"

and then Than, "Anyone need carpeting? Come in and pull it up yourself!"

and someone else, "four year old is available.."

O.K. O.K. I get it. I'm a little too into this. I am just so geeked that I don't have to take ONE more trip to the Salvation Army to drop off a pile of stuff that I'm not sure anyone would want.

This way, I am sure that someone wants it, and that they get it! Free is good. Even though I have not acquired anything free yet, I will, and I have already. God has given me so much. What do I really need? nothing. So, it's great to give and that's just the thing. It's addicting.. giving is, that is. Getting.. well... it's kind of empty unless someone special is giving it to you.

I think we should all forage around for something to give and list it on freecycle.  It's so much easier than sitting in your garage ALL DAY hoping someone will come by and buy your stuff.  Ugh.  I might do it for a million dollars, but probably not less than that.  I can NOT imagine sitting in my garage for days waiting for people to buy 10 cent items.  But I am so glad there are people who do find that lovely because that's where I shop.  I am climbing back on the wagon, so to speak, of non-retail shopping.  Here I go again.. can I make it for 48 hours?  do I hear 72?

How long can I go without buying retail items?  

Blitz-It Friday # 8 blitzing with the kids.

Hey! It's time to blitz-it again. For those of you who are just blitzing for the first time, here are some great starting points.

Basically, blitzing is forcing ourselves to focus for a set period of time on hands-on tasks.

Originally, I wrote about the one hour blitz and staying focused.

This week I thought I would switch things up a bit and teach you the tried and true techniques of blitzing with the kids.  First of all, we're going to have to change our thinking a tad and lower our time limit a bunch.  Blitzing as a family only takes 20 minutes.  It could take longer, but I think it is a good place to start.  

Now, Moms!  Listen up! You are going to be "armchair general" O.K.?  Someone has to be in charge and supervising.  That would be you.  

O.K. Kids!  Someone has got to the do the work.  That would be you.  

So, let's examine this idea.  If Mom is focused and working hard, she really isn't supervising the kids for that length of time.  If Mom is supervising the kids, she really isn't focused on the housework (too much).  When you are teaching your kids about working hard, you may need to do more supervising than working.  

I don't know about you, but my kids will get away with the minimum, if I let them.  They'll drag their feet, slough around, blob out on me unless I am pushing, pushing pushing them.  If you have given birth to  highly productive self-motivators, don't tell me, OK?  I'll have to hate you then, and I'm not up for those emotions.  

So, my family blitz starts with the ringing of a bell. We do not start until everyone has shown up.  The last one to show up gets the last (and worst) assignment.  With five kids working, I am looking for signs of efficiency and productivity or lack thereof.  I'll often shout "faster, faster, faster!!" at someone if they are going too slowly.  One time, someone developed a BAD.. and I mean BAD attitude and I  kept adding time in 20 minute increments to his blitz.  So, everyone else got off, and Mr. Lazybutt had to keep going.  As you can probably tell from my less than subtle overtures that I DO NOT DO LAZY.!!!!!!!!!.. she said sweetly.  

The good thing is that once you get over the attitude thing, you really can have an efficient working team on your side.  That is a beautiful thing.  

So.. what did our family blitz do this week?

We were coming home from prayer meeting and I announced we were going to do a 10 minute blitz.  (just ten minutes!)

So, Joanna helped Emily pick up her toys and arrange them.

Jamie and Hudson carried stuff downstairs and got the vacuum out.

Nathanael did dishes.

Hud vacuumed.

Jamie did more kitchen stuff.

I re-vacummed.

Than put the vacuum away.

More kids did more kitchen stuff...

And then we had it done: livingroom and kitchen cleaned up (looking decent) in 10 minutes!

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So, let's link up and show off 'yer stuff

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When not to have people over..

If you have been reading my hospitality posts, you may be wondering if there is ever a time that I say "no" to hospitality opportunities? Do I expect myself (and everyone else) to be a hospitality machine?  The full and unequivocal answer is: NO and no way.

I think I learn many lessons the hard way.  I tend to be an over-achiever and don't want to be a wimp.  Where some people need a general "cattle prod", I generally need the "reigns" pulled in.  

So, for those high achievers, wanna-be-the best Christian mommies out there types, this post is for you.  The Bible talks about being in season and out of season.  There are some times of our lives, when we are clearly out of season.

I'm thinking of a few possibilities of what out of season might mean for a family.  You can add to the list also.

1) A birth of a child!  It's a beautiful thing, so let's stay low and recover during this time. For us, I take 6 weeks for a healthy baby/ delivery.. more for a C-section.

2) A death in the family.. Let's grieve during this time.

3) Health issues/ surgery/ problem pregnancies etc.  If you are not strong enough to fix dinner for your family, you probably shouldn't be having guests over either. This is nice time to let others serve you and your family.  

4) Massive construction or anything that is unsafe in your home.  You don't want to subject your guests to danger, illness, etc.  

5) Family/Relationship disruptions.  If you and your spouse are fighting (like bigtime fighting), this is not the time to let the rest of the world "enjoy" your family.  Work it out.  Learn to get along and make amends, and THEN go back to serving the Lord in the form of hospitality.  

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Now, you are wondering if I ever break these rules.  Well, truthfully, I've never experienced: 2, 4 or 5.  I did have one very tough pregnancy (Emily's) that put me in the hospital during the pregnancy a few times. Could I possibly go the entire length of a pregnancy without having guests over??  

Well, no.  It got the point where our kids were saying, "We NEVER have people over anymore!"

So, we decided there were some exceptions.  We had children who were big helpers, and I had "breaks" in the fiasco.  Also, my mother was very reasonable about letting us have people over when she was at the "helm".  I do have one funny story related to this.

Way back when Nathanael was just a newborn, my mother came to Panama and stayed for an entire month so I could recover.  That was AWESOME!!  As it is with the fourth child, sometimes you forget basic things like buying groceries before the mother comes.  We lived on base housing in Panama, only a mile from the commissary.  There was only one problem.  Only military members could use the commissary, so Will had to get groceries for her.  

So, Nathanael was born on September 8, 1997 (his actual due date), and it was the day that mom was to arrive in Panama.  Will piled Jamie 5, Joanna 3, and Hudson 1.5, into the vehicle and picked up Grandma Jude from Tocumen Airport in Panama City.  He showed up with a rose (probably purchased from a street vendor for a buck) and handed it to my mom.  "Here's for the new grandmother"..  After awhile of driving she asked, "Did Jena have the baby?"  

ha ha ha.. (This was Will's style--just to let the details come out gradually)  

[isn't this about hospitality?  O.K. I'm getting to that part now..]

So, I get home from the hospital and I'm doing my typical thing: eating and sleeping and nursing.. and this Panamanian couple shows up for a visit.  Rod was a shoe-shiner and carwasher.  His wife, Yadira, was the same.  They did all sorts of odd jobs on base to earn money, and they were really hard workers and loved the Lord.  Although we never openly discussed the fact that they may be poor, it was understood that they could just show up at our house if they were hungry.  

So, wouldn't you know it.. they showed up a few days after I brought home a baby.  There's no food in the house, and my mother does not really know about this tradition the Panamanians have (of staying until you feed them) and my tradition (feeding everyone who walks through the door) and my children's tradition of (hanging on my leg until the cows come home).  

So, it was a nice lengthy visit, and I decided that it was time for them to go and the baby needed to nurse again and nap.. I mean I needed to nap.  Whatever.  So, I left myM poor mother in charge of the hungry Panamanians with no food in the house.  [Somehow, I know this will come back to haunt me]  

My dear mother gave me the look that said, "if you leave now, I'm going to kill you" and "WHEN are they leaving?!!"  

And I told her, "If you want them to go, you'll have to feed them."

She said, "should I make a cup of tea for them?"

I told her, "No.  It has to be REAL food.  They will stay until they get real food."  

(And I know this from a friend.  They stayed five hours at a friend's house--just waiting for the food)

So she, with gritted teeth, proceeded to forage around in the empty fridge for some food.  The found a piece of lunch meat and a few hunks of cheese. She managed to FAN everything out over the plate, so it looked like a full plate of food.  She had a little lettuce and parsley and who knows what else.  I'm sure it looked like restaurant food to them, and they had no idea the "creativity" involved to make that "meal" happen.  

My mother will never let me forget the day that I forced her into "spontaneously feeding the masses", but I know.. and the Lord knows, and we really had no other choice.  They'd still be there with bated breath and fork in hand if we hadn't done that Ma!  Thanks a ton.  

Something totally cute

Yes, she watches a lot of strings practice!

We love all of our musicians whether they play real instruments or not.

We're almost there..

and

Just like the great runners and horse racers out there, the homeschool moms are in their final stretch for the season.  I don't know about you, but I feel... exhausted.  My dear husband asked me, are you depressed?  To which I thought: maybe I am.  Then again, let me take a nap and then I'll answer.  O.K.  I don't feel like jumping the cliff, unless it is a small cliff that opens up into a luscious valley of verdant things with a swimming area at the bottom.  

No, I think I just need a change of pace.  Less activities. more fresh air.  the basics.  

So, this is what has helped me (today at least!)

Took a big nap after lunch, which is after chapel.

Made a big spinach smoothie and ate it.

Went for a nice walk around the block with my sweet husband.

Took a bath and got in my jammies.

Planned the menu for the week and made a list of what needs to be done--tomorrow.

and guess what?  I'm not even going to worry about it until then!

Menu plan:

Monday: chicken lasagna and fumi salad (leftover from last week)

Tuesday: Sweet and sour pork, brown rice

Wednesday: black beans and rice

Thursday: brisket

Friday: chicken pot pie

For more menus: organizing junkie MPM

for more make your home sing: moms the word

Also, for those who read my post on: the challenge of going green, 

I have gotten a lot accomplished on that front in just one day.

1) I was able to sign up on freecycle.  It is a service that has chapters in different places.  I hooked up to the Rockford freecycle, and I love it.  I listed about 6 items to give away, and I've already had one thing picked up, and the others are heading out the door soon!  Yeah!  Freecycle is where you give away or get free things.  Obviously, I am not an expert on this, since I have a total of 2.5 days experience at the time of this writing.  

2) I was able to find my local recycling drop off center.  For those of you who are in Rockford, there is the Keep Illinois Beautiful campaign.  It is in Love's Park and open for drop off from 9-12 on Saturdays only.  I haven't called to confirm the details, but it seems like they will take almost anything that can be recycled.

3) I was able to call JULIE, that service that tells you where you can dig for a garden or any type of digging.  Actually, I didn't call, I emailed.  For those in Illinois, we are supposed to call before we dig. 

Enjoy your Monday!

The challenge of going greener

I think I was born in the wrong year to be too "green".  It was very hip in the 70's to be all green and earthy.  Then the 80's hit.  It was like we didn't think of it anymore.  Most of my growing up memories are in the 80's.  Sure I was alive in the 70's.  I was precisely 1-11 years old.  

My parents were smart about not wasting water, money, energy or time.  They just did it so naturally. We all never thought about it much.  When I grew up and was on my own, I have dabbled with being green in same way that I dabbled with using cloth diapers.  

I'd get a big energy burst, buy all of these cloth diapers, find a procedure for it and do it very faithfully for a few months.  Then I'd get distracted and start adding more and more disposables. Ugh.  

That's kind of how my recycling adventures have gone also.  I'd get all excited about it and have these grand procedures going and get distracted.  Well, I'm no longer doing diapers (cloth or otherwise), so I don't need to feel guilty about that issue anymore (whew!)..

But I still consume stuff.  Last November when we switched garbage companies, recycling was not included in our weekly pickup.  So, you know what I did?  Nothing.  That's it.  nothing.

I just threw all of the stuff in the trash!  Guilty!!  Sorry sorry sorry!!!  

So, we only have 1.5 weeks left of homeschooling for the year (7 days to be exact.. not that we're chomping at the bit here or anything)... so, I'd like to announce my new challenge to myself for the summer months.  I am going to make some changes around here.

So,

1. I'd like to find out where you can drop-off recyclables in the Rockford area.  

2. I need to set up a schedule of when and how often I plan to go.

3. I need to set up a system in my garage for collecting things that is user-friendly.

Other things I'd like to do:

1. Make some cloth napkins and use those regularly.

2. Use and bring my own cloth shopping bags to the grocery store.

3. Bring a pyrex container in my purse when I go to restaurants, so I don't need to use styrofoam for leftovers.

4. Make my husband lunch, so he doesn't need to eat out as much.

5. Join freecycle and list a few items

6. Read about composting--not sure how to do this and if it is feasible.

7. List things on Craig's list before they get too old.

Oh, and I didn't get this motivation from some sort of internal force.  Keeper of the Home wrote a great ebook called: Healthy Homemaking.  She's done a great job!  I'm only on chapter 1!  I ordered the book, and I'm really enjoying it.