Momma Made Slings & Apparel

Playing at the Park

2009-08-09T05:20:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday the little boys and I went biking down the St. Mark's bike trail for a little while. When we got back, I let them play in the park for a bit. It really is wonderful to watch them play and run and laugh. God has blessed us in so many ways. Simple things like to time to unwind are an amazing gift from our Father.

After we left the bike trail and park, we went to Grandma's house! Simon and Elijah played outside for a while. When I went to check on them, these crafty guys had a "fwimming" pool as Elijah called it. I'm so blessed to have such creative sons.

A Night of Consumerism and Vain Fun

2009-08-05T05:23:00.001-07:00

I know, I know Barney is evil, but what am I gonna do?

"Liba, is that you?"

Elijah happens to have a VERY steady hand. Too bad he was shooting at the wrong target.

This was Elijah's game. Where else do you get rewarded for hitting things on the head?

Yea, not sure why I posted this pic, but enjoy.

Get it Simon!

Elijah poured Parmesan into his hand while I has my head turned and then licked it all out. GROSS!

Weekend Church Retreat at Calathora

2009-07-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is going to be the longest post in the history of America. Make sure you've eaten recently and are well hydrated because you may here a while. We, the little boys and I, just spent the most wonderful, edifying weekend with our family and friends up in Georgia. The local fellowship had a "quarterly" meeting. We were able to go up and stay in the Morton's home. I ALWAYS love being in their home. It has a wonderful peace and restfulness that is so encouraging to the spirit. It was very nice to be with them and catch up.

Simon and Elijah enjoying cookies right before bed time. YUM!

Chocolate chip.

The boys had a wonderful idea. They tied a rope to Cleveland's deck and repelled down!

Face of joy.

Fellow shipping and enjoying good company.

What sweet young ladies and future Godly women.

Carlos has grown so much.

Father and daughter share a momentary embrace and a kind word.

Andrew and Ronnie.

Elijah was playing in the water.

I think Simon was after caribou.

That rope held so much appeal.

Frankie, Paul, Ronnie and Ashburn playing around after breakfast before the speakers begin.

The Morton family home. They are always so gracious to share and open their up for hospitality.

This is the "barn". Alan and Katie were married inside a few years ago and now it's were most the of the meetings are held. On top are 2 "apartments". Michael Jr. and his family live on one side. Cleveland and his future family will live on the other one day, Lord willing.

I wonder if they get kinks in their necks while working at the computer?

Michael Jr, Kressant and Carlos.

Hang on Paul!

Mr. Campana is serious about lunch prep.

So, who wins?

Mr. Hiers and Eden. She has gotten SO big! A few months make a big difference.

Martha and Sarah vegging between sessions.

Clean up time.

Back to the water station. Oh no!

Bethany and her cucumber soup. It was so good, thank you Ms. Christine!

I love you Amanda!

Breakfast plans for Sunday morning.

Willy needed a few extra minutes of beauty sleep.

I'm osrry to put this picture here Adeline, but the other 2 were fuzzy.

John and baby Esther.

Everyone gathered Sunday morning for church.

It was a great weekend! Mr. Morton and Mr. Davis brought some excellent points from God's Word about family relationships. It was very encouraging to see all the families, in harmony working together for God's glory. I hope to be able to get together again with my family before the next retreat.

As always, if you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them or send an

e-mail.

A Weekly Update in 15 Pictures or Less

2009-07-12T10:48:00.001-07:00

This week God blessed us with time to goof off, relax and play. Simon and Elijah enjoyed their new found liberties in the fenced yard. There were SEVERAL extra tub hours this week. The little boys and I went out on the bike trail this (Sunday) morning. It was a wonderful time.

Independence Day with the Church

2009-07-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

Back to the Beach

2009-06-27T15:30:00.001-07:00

With our Saturday, we went back to the beach!

Weekday Get Away

2009-06-24T14:39:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a pictorial account with little captioning. If you have a question, feel free to e-mail me or ask in the comments section.

10 points for putting the jogging stroller on the bike rack so the doggies didn't have be squished.

Mackenzie is a ball feind!!! She was scratching at the chuck it like crazy trying to get the ball out.

"Ain't I cute?"

Yes, the water at the Florida coast is supposed to be emerald green, however, we're at the GULF coast and it just rained, so brownish blue is what you get.

To swim or not to swim?

Not to swim!

This was supposed to be an artistic shot.

Here's our shout out to all the Capri Sun drinkers, you know who you are!

See my freckles?

Elijah is passed out, but he's still holding his cracker.

Keeping Kids and Dogs in and Weirdos out!!!

2009-06-22T05:59:00.001-07:00

These are a few pictures of what our yard looked like before the fence.

This is what I looked like before I started working on the fence.

I forgot my snap straps when I went to Lowe's to get the fencing materials. I improvised by using the dog's leash to keep the gate on top of the car.

Praise the Lord for dog leashes!!!

150' of fencing, 25 6' poles, 1 4' gate, 2 8' gate posts, a bunch of zip ties, 1 post hammery thing, string to keep the fence square and we're ready to work!

Here are the first few I put up before my sister got here. All of you professional fence people are forbidden from laughing.

Olivia, my sister, arrived to help. She started off by helping to take pictures for the blog.

I got advice to put up the corner posts first, then tie string around them to keep the fence square and at the same height.

Olivia's puppy, Beau, checking out the future control device, also known as a gate.

Well, we got all of the corner posts up, tied them off for guidance and we forth in our post planting. Stay tuned to see how it went.

Do you see how crooked my posts are!?!?!?! I did exactly what I was told, it still was a mess.

The posts are all different heights, leaning, some are on one side of the string, some on the other. Thankfully, God gives grace to the patient.

After about 2 hours, I needed a break. Olivia was so good to take a picture of my red face for ya'll

After laying in the yard all morning, Suvik moved to the back of the car. It's a hard job, but someone has to lay around all the time.

Back to work. I decided to put up the gate posts next. They were much taller then the other posts, so I used the bumper of my car to height.

Pretty creative, huh?

After that, it was lunch time. Crackers, spicy hummus, brie cheese and fruit!!!

The lunch fence builders.

After lunch, when it was working time again, God answered my prayers! He sent my Uncle Jimmy to help us. Yea, Uncle Jimmy!

Simon came out the give us a hand. (Or get under foot, however you want to look at it.)

We chased down the measuring tape all afternoon, but he certainly provided as much help as a

3 year old can.

Uncle Jimmy was laughing at my fence posts. Yes, I said laughing!

He started pulling up the posts. He made us take all the crooked, short or off line posts up and do it again.

He then put them in the ground correctly. Praise God for men who know what they're doing.

A couple of posts were really good and stuck. I got the jack for my car and we literally jacked them out of the ground. (BTW, that was Uncle Jimmy's idea, BRILLIANT!)

Little Simon's face was so dirty! My tub was black from filth when I gave the boys a bath that night.

Well, we've progressed. We have all the posts lined up correctly and we're ready to put up the fencing, right?

We're so close.

Here's the pretty gate up and working.

Here's the first bit of fencing being unrolled. Hallelujah!

Uncle Jimmy got out his Come-Along.

The little do-hickey is a miracle worker for tightening up a fence line.

Simon lead Suvik over the second part of the fencing before we put it up.

"Where's the next zip tie?"

Some how, I got stuck holding the pole that was attached to the Come-Along.

All by myself.

And now, thanks to my Uncle Jimmy, my sister Olivia (she declined to have her picture posted online), my Granny (she kept Elijah), we have a secure place for kids and dogs to play outside.

God is so good. As I sit here and post this, I can see through window 2 of the dogs playing chase in the fence. This afternoon, my boys will be out there playing dirt bomber, sword fight and all sorts of other outside activities. I am so grateful for the money, advice and skill that the Lord provided us in the putting up of the fence.

Honor Thy Mother

2008-09-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

Through out the Bible people, particularly Christian, are commanded to honor their parents. We see examples of honoring mothers in Ruth & Naomi (even though she is what we would call "mother-in-law", the principle is there), Solomon & Bathsheba and even our Savior has he handed over the earthly responsibility of His mother to John. My Aunt Carolyn also, is setting a wonderful example to me of honoring her mother. Ms. Betty had a stroke several years ago, is suffering from early dementia. She's not comely of words, or even easy to understand, but my Aunt Carolyn makes an effort to ask her how she would like things done, what she prefers and what makes her happy. Aunt Carolyn doesn't assume that just because others live closer, it's their responsibility. She takes an active role in caring for her mother, not treating Ms. Betty like a burden to be carried, but as a precious jewel that needs special care.

Ms. Betty has about 20 cats(your and my opinion about cats aside), they provide Ms. Betty with daily activity and delight. They seems to help keep her active and she knows everyone of their names. Some stray dogs have been harassing her cats and have actually killed a couple and caused Ms. Betty to fall. Well, my Aunt Carolyn wasn't going to have that. So Saturday, the little boys and I had to privilege of helping erect some lattice walls and putting a gate around Ms. Betty's porch.

The following is a pictorial account of that minor construction...

This is all the lattice strapped to the top of my car. It rode for about 45 minutes from Tallahassee to Ms. Betty's home.

That lattice wasn't going anywhere!

This is porch when we got there. Someone had put up this plastic sheeting to discourage the dogs.

The dogs had torn it down.

I put up this gate at the steps of the porch. It swings shut and locks so they can't push it open.

Aunt Carolyn measured and cut the lattice pieces all round the porch. We tacked smaller wood paneling to the lattice to give it strength.

Simon worked on his building skills. In a few years, Elijah and he will be doing this for us.

This is a picture of the front of the porch. These pieces went all the way around to prevent the dogs from getting on the porch.

We're actually going back again the Saturday to put some lattice on the bottom to keep those strays from under the porch. Ms. Betty says she's not has any more problems from those dogs since we put that up. Aunt Carolyn will be blessed by her obedience to God's written Word in honoring her mother.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELIJAH!

2008-09-12T07:02:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to Chuckie Cheese's to celebrate Elijah's second birthday! He actually turned 2 on August 31st, but alas, late is better than never in some cases.

They started off by riding all the character toys. Bob was popular with Elijah...

Simon preferred the mouse in the car.

The Elijah moved to the Big Man, none other than Chuckie himself!

Simon really liked the mouse!

Finally, he gave Bob the Builder a try.

Then we moved to the games. Kicking a ball was so much fun.

Simon gave it a try also.

Then they shot little jungle flies or something weird like that.

Aunt Olivia helped them shoot baskets. Simon is for sure no athlete.

Elijah played on the inside jungle gym.

Then we all ate. Pizza, fries, wings and bread sticks. Sounds like a heart attack waiting to happen.

But it was very good.

Elijah is waiting for the cake!

" I need some too!"

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you...

My big boy blew out his own candles!

Simon enjoying his piece.

Elijah moved past the fork to the fingers. Much easier to use and they don't fall on the floor.

Nonna is debating the texture, the smell, the deliciousness of the cake. :)

"See my cake?"

Aunt Olivia and Simon pose for a pic.

Aunt Carolyn put the ribbons from the cake on Elijah's head. They left a green food dye streak through his hair.

Birthday balloons.

And now the presents. He got some dinoROARS as Elijah calls him.

What else is in the bag?

Coloring pages.

And Bible Books.

We all had such a wonderful time celebrating the life that out Creator has given us to share in. He's such a blessing to us and we know that through prayer, training and God's grace, Elijah will grow into a strong, Christian man who does not compromise is full of the Spirit of the Lord.

Herbs and Veggies

2008-09-09T17:06:00.000-07:00

Well, for the last couple of weeks, we've been pretty busy cleaning up limbs, ordering new product materials, relabeling and we've had a rash of sickness run through our house. During all that, the little boys and I have managed to get some plating done and now have wonderful green, pretty things to show for it.

These are (will be) lettuce that we planted last Saturday.

These are okra and pole beans.

Here's a close up of our little okras that we planted on Saturday. Aren't they cute?!

These are the leaves of our Lemon Balm plant.

Here's the whole pot. We currently have 2 of these. We're just starting to trim the leaves and dry and sell them, so if you want some lemon balm leaves, feel free to ask!

These are our squash and zucchini we planted several weeks ago. Can't wait to eat 'em!

Here's a close up of the leaves.

Here are some more pictures of the squash and zucchini.

These are honey suckle! I'm going to take them out of tub and break them up. Then I'm going to replant them all along a fence I'm going to build! NO, I'm not too ambitious, I'm just a glutton for disappointment. :) (Note: Along this future fence will also be roses to make rose perfume and Kiwi to sell.)

These are the leaves of the honey suckle. They're so rich and pretty. The Lord has done these things and they are marvellous in our eyes!

I told Elijah to look at me and smile, he smiled, but never did look at me. We were having some dead trees cut down and they were WAY more interesting than mom.

These are the plants recently planted or that always be in buckets.

This is lavender, which will also be drying and selling. I am actually fixing to cut it back.

These are future peppers.

This is my Mom's victory rose, not really an herb or anything, but we allow it hang out with the cool kids. :)

These 2 little pots contain seeds for bell pepper and tomatoes. I just planted these this afternoon, so there's not really anything to show, but we'll keep you posted.

These are future Serrano peppers.

This a rosemary plant. We'll also be drying and selling this.

This is the Red Ginger I bought for my sister on her birthday. It will bloom with big, red flowers!

This is our little aloe, actually, he's kinna big.

And this is the peppermint or basil. I can't remember which on. I think it's the basil though.

All by it's lonesome is the rose bush my Uncle Jimmy cut and gave to me. It'll stay in this white pitcher. Once it's roots reach the bottom, I'll set it on the ground to root permanently. There are very good size holes on the bottom for the roots to get through.

I plan to build a greenhouse and plant more herbs and potable veggies in the next month or so. Then through out the winter, I can grow, dry, sell and use herbs and veggies! If any one has any advice or expertise in building and would like to give me pointers, I'm more then willingly to listen! We're very excited about using the materials the Lord has provided us with to support ourselves. God has been so very gracious and faithful to our family. We certainly look forward to the day when we'll be able to support others as we've been supported. God Bless.

A Brief Update

2008-09-03T07:07:00.000-07:00

Greetings All,

Just a short note to let everyone know the comings and goings around here. Sorry I haven't posted in such a long time, it's been rather busy, but seems to be settling out. During Fay we had a busted windshield, animal evacuations, ruined products and a lot of good old rain. It was such a blessing from the Lord about the windshield and the whole situation. Some land behind our home was developed (read holding pond), and during the rain it over flowed and we had to evacuate our goats and some of the chickens! It was quite a sight, my mom, my sister and myself out there in the rain setting up tarps, herding animals, spreading hay. It really was a lot of fun in retrospect. And then worst part, I normally leave my products in the back of my car, well I decided to move them on a covered porch and cover them with a tarp. Some how the rain got under the tarp and ruined a lot stuff. But I know God is gracious and will restore and replenish all.

Because I'm a bonehead, I don't have any pictures of the windshield, the displaced animals or anything. I'll be getting back to the normal, picture full blog in the next couple of days.

God Bless,
Aubry

Jebidiah, Beulah's Pet

2008-08-18T18:05:00.000-07:00

We would like to proudly introduce everyone to the newest member of our "farm", Jebidiah. Jebi is a Nigerian Dwarf goat from Whiddon Family Farms up in Leesburg, Georgia. You can check out all the animals and other items they have for sale at www.whiddonfamilyfarms.com . We would really like to thank them for Little Jebi. He's fit right in and is doing very well. My Mom and Beulah are having a hard time sharing, but such is life...

Better pictures will be coming! When you a let a 10 year old do things, you never know what you're going to get.

After a few days, Beulah started stepping on the fencing, which allowed Jebi to jump over. At one point, he got his ear caught on the edge of the fencing and ripped it open.

As you can see, it was pretty bad. I sprayed it down with Hiney Helper, and placed a bandage smeared with Samaritan's Salve on his ear.

40 hours later...

The ear is almost completely healed! Praise the Lord for all the wonderful herbs, oils and wisdom He has given to us, His creation!

Chicken Hospital

2008-08-13T16:18:00.000-07:00

Thank God for all the rain that He has blessed us with in the last few days! It's been so wonderful to hear it fall on the roof, to see it "green up" the plants and to catch it for our rain water shampoo and conditioner we're working on. Alas, it has caused some problems for us also.

Our snap straps on the little chicken run broke and we had to move the biddies.

I made an unwise decision and put the biddies in the chicken yard with big chickens.

The next morning, I had 4 dead biddies!!! Or so I thought...

We rescued the 2 blue bantams, Harry and Georgia, first.

Then we saved the 2 others. It was such a sad sight.

I really thought we were going to lose the one on the right.

We stuck them in front of a little space heater to get them dried off. After we got their temps up, I fed them warm, wet mash. I mixed in cayenne pepper, frankincense and rosemary oil. It seemed to work very well.

As of right now, all 7 biddies are back outside, in the repaired chicken area. They all are eating and seem to be doing very well. Praise the Lord!

Staying Awake at the Wheel

2008-08-05T06:06:00.000-07:00

The other week as I was driving back from the Ray Roberts' home in Axson, I was having an especially hard time staying awake. Having just heard the testimony of another family in the church about sleeping and driving, I was praying and asking God to keep me awake. The Lord gave me the urge to take pictures of the beautiful storm clouds that were over us the entire way home! They were so pretty and as I looked for pictures to take of the impending storm, it was hard to fall asleep.

This trick didn't work for Elijah.

Simon Plows the Field

2008-08-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

Last week we went to our Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Drexell's home. Uncle Jimmy let us have the leftover ears of corn for our goat and chickens. After we got through picking them and loading them into the car, Uncle Jimmy let Simon ride on the tractor while he turned the stalks over to replant.

Elijah ate dirty corn while he watched his brother.

Products Update

2008-07-28T06:45:00.000-07:00

Below are the most recent pictures of our All Natural Health and Body products. If you have any questions or would like to order something you see, please e-mail me or leave a comment! All of our products are based on God's design for our body and His creation. Our products are designed to alleviate to symptoms, but more importantly to deal with the root problem, just like Christ dealt with the penalty and the power of sin on the cross. Have a blessed day.

Respiratory Relief- Salve for the relief of coughs, some sinus problems and congestion. Great for traveling. 4 oz. - $17 Pink Himalayan Salt- An excellent salt for cooking, body scrubs and body soaks. 3 oz. - $6

Ultra Underarm- An all natural deodorant in 3 scents. Pine for men, Luscious Lavender and Purity for women. I've had great reviews on this! 2.5 oz. - $8, not picutred 1.9 oz. - $6.00 Face Friend- An astringent for all skins types for face and body. 4 oz. $8

Tummy Tamer- Oils to put on the tummy to help relieve pains, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea. 10 mL - $7

Muscle Mover- Oils to put on soar muscles to ease pain and help restore movement. Excellent, excellent reviews for this product. 10 mL - $7

Joint Joy - a strong blend of several herbs and oils for the relief of arthritis and other joint maladies. I had one lady tell me she was going to kiss me because of how well this worked for her. :) 4 oz. - $15

Samaritan's Salve - Burns, bruises, cuts, scrapes, rashes and the like can all be helped with this salve. I've gotten great reviews about the effectiveness of this product! 2 oz. - $7, 4 oz. - $14

African Black Soap -A skin nutrient rich, soft soap. Beneficial to all skins types, especially the sensitive or dry types. $3.50 per package.

Baby Bottom- Organic baby powder or dusting powder. I also sprinkle this on the carpet occasionally because it smells so good. 7 oz. - $10.00

Lip Love- This all natural lip softener is great! Helps soften and smooth dry, cracked lips with looking like you been kissing the grease pot. .5 oz. - $2, 1 oz. - $4

Wound Wash- Antiseptic, pain-relieving spray that is convenient to use and all natural. Helps promoting healing immediately. 4 oz. - $8

Respiratory Relief- This is the liquid version of the salve. It also is great for coughs and congestion and other respiratory and sinus problems. 4 oz. - $17

Hiney Helper- Promotes healing of the sensitive skin of babies and toddlers. Fights against diaper rash and irritation. One of our most popular products, this all natural spray goes well beyond the diaper. I spray my hands after changing diapers, I spray in the hair of my kids if it needs to freshened up. 4 oz. - $8

Also, I'm going to start making a castille, lye soap in the near future. In our test lab (the real world) we are currently trying out a new insect repellent (looking VERY promising), and an after bite skin soother in case you forgot to put the repellent on.

The Devil's Beattitude

2008-07-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

1. Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to gather once a week with their fellow Christians - they are my best workers.

2. Blessed are those Christians who wait to be asked and then expect to be thanked - I can use them.

3. Blessed are the touchy, who stop going to church - they are my missionaries.

4. Blessed are the trouble makers - they shall be called my children.

5. Blessed are the complainers - I'm all ears to them.

6. Blessed are those who are bored with the church services - for they are not edified during the service.

7. Blessed is the church member who expects to be invited to his own church - for he is a part of the problem instead of the solution.

8. Blessed are those who gossip - for they shall cause strife and division, which please me.

9. Blessed are those who are easily offended - for they will soon get angry and quit.

10. Blessed are those who do not give their time and money to carry on God's work - for they are my helpers.

11. Blessed is he who professes to love god, but hates his brother and sister - for he shall be with me forever.

12. Blessed are you who, when you read this, think about other people and not yourself - I've got you too!

Beulah, our new dairy goat!

2008-07-22T16:55:00.001-07:00

We would like for everyone to meet our new goat, Beulah! We got her from Sweet Grass Dairy in Thomasville.

This few are pictures from our visit to Sweet Grass Dairy to pick her out on Friday. On Monday, Tanner, the Little Boys and I picked her up and brought her home.

After a lovely afternoon at the May's home, we brought her home. She jumped the fence in the first 2 seconds. Thankfully, I had her tied also. But it tear up the fence.

Figuring she may be lonely after being moved from a herd situation, we let her stay on the porch.

Which eventually turned into the living room! We did put down a big tarp and keep her confined.

At 1 o'clock in the morning, she still was moving around, so put her back outside.

During the few short hours she was out there between 1 a.m. and her feeding, she knocked down her shelter, and tore up 2 more sections of fencing.

The fence is torn our other post if you can't see it.

So we set out to rebuild!

Paige, the boys and I put this together on the fly.

I nailed the plywood to the fence posts.

Then used some of the leftover PVC to attach the tarp to.

Then we pulled the tarp tight over the plywood and it became a shelter, which she likes, I think.

Beulah is expected to kid within the next month. So we'll have our own fresh milk to drink and make cheese and ice cream and other things. As we try to become for self-sufficient and less dependent on world's system, we learning a lot about our Heavenly Father. Both goats and chickens are mentioned in the Bible and are used to help describe our relationship with our Savior. We're so appreciative and humbled by the care the Lord is providing for our family. Beulah is very sweet, very pregnant and she was a very good deal!

Our New Chickens and Their New Homes

2008-07-22T16:27:00.001-07:00

Last week, we were blessed by God when he gave us 7 more biddies at no cost! There are 2 Blue Bantams and then 5 other little guys. Below are pictures of the venture from inside "babies", to outdoor chicks of the "real world".

Here's a shot of where Georgia and Harry lived for a couple of days.

This is a close up of them.

The first couple of days, the biddies stayed in a little cage on the table.

We put the lights and then covered them to keep them warm.

Notice the light source is in the shape of a monkey!

After a couple of days, they biddies made their way into the pen with the other chickens.

The Ray Roberts' family blessed us by giving some PVC to us. This is how we used it.

This is a picture of what the new chicken runs looked like before.

This is after a day of very hard work.

I put this "Bird Block" over the run to prevent them from flying out. It was actually to put over plants to keep the birds from eating them.

I put the 4 bigger pullets into the new run. When the biddies get bigger, they'll join them. The 2 Blue Bantams will have their own area to themselves.

Here's Darlene checking out her new space.

There will be no laughing at my lack of carpentry skills!

We used this as the gate for the new goats area beside the chickens.

Here are the coops ready for use!

Another Wednesday at Lake Ella

2008-07-17T06:36:00.000-07:00

Again this week the Little Boys and I went to Lake Ella behind the Black Dog Cafe' to sell our slings and other products. We were blessed with some free time before the market "opened". I only have pictures of the boys playing before we set up. After we set up and started selling, I was so busy, there was no time for pictures. It was wonderful yesterday, the Lord really blessed our time out there. It wasn't overly hot under the trees where we were. He held back the rain. There was a lot of good, fresh, local produce and other foods. We got lavender petals for our baby powder, delicious, fresh blueberries, some raw milk cheese and fresh sweet basil, which I'm going to dry today. Our Aunt Drexell came out to see us. She took Simon and Elijah for a little while on a walk around Lake Ella. It was a lovely time, I can't wait to get out there again next week to sell some more and buy some more!

Before the sale, we played on the trees and looked at the ducks and turtles.

This is Simon's silly face.

This is Elijah's smile!

What do you see?

"Water 'praying e'rywhere!"

Last week was a big flop as far as actually selling things. It rained and poured and then sprinkled and then poured and then rained some more! We didn't do very well at all last week. But I did take some pictures while we were sitting in the car waiting for it quit flooding.

It really was only good weather for ducks!

Simon and Elijah enjoyed a lollipop while we waited the second time for the rain to stop.

Lessons learned last week:

Water and Labels don't mix!

God is in control!

Little Boys like to play in the wet dirt, especially in public.

God is in control!

Rain seems to drive off a crowd of shoppers.

God is in control!

God is in control, God is in control, God is in control!

Our Visit to the Ray Roberts' Home

2008-07-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

This past week the Little Boys and I were blessed to be a guest at the home of Mr. Ray Roberts and his family. We had such a wonderful time on their farm with them. Mr. Roberts and their older son went to a men's meeting, while the rest of us fellowshipped and enjoyed each other's company at the house. Below are some pictures of the farm I took.

Mr. Roberts blessed us by giving us the PVC pipes from their old chicken run. There will be upcoming pictures on how they were used here at our home. :)

This is a picture I took with my new night vision camera! (Not really, I manipulated the picture with the computer. It sounded good though.)

Thanks to the Ray Roberts Family! We had such a great time. I enjoyed talking with Mrs. Roberts and sharing in the family prayer at breakfast. It was a very timely visit. I learned a lot about the chickens and other animals we may one day be able to get. We hope to visit again very soon!

Marth Ann Roberts, What a Blessing

2008-07-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

Below are pictures from the shower given to Mrs. Roberts and Baby Martha Ann at the Morton Home Friday. It was such a lovely time. The Ladies of Calathora did a wonderful job of hosting the shower, especially on short notice, but what else would you expect from them? Enjoy the photos and share in the blessing our Lord and Savior has given the Fritz Roberts' Family.

Preparing for the shower...

Here they are!

Photograph of a photographer.

The tables were set so elegantly. The food was of course delicious. And you couldn't ask for better company!

Then we gathered to watch as Ms. Conley opened the gifts that had been brought to bless baby.

This quilt was made by her girls. It was so very lovely.

If you can't see the stitching, it reads "M R A".

It so wonderful to see a godly woman show the joy in her spirit with her smile.

Martha Ann tried on her new hat.

We're so very excited about all the new life joining our fellowship. Just this year, there are about 7 babies to be born or that have been born. Next year we already know of 2 families with future Saints on the way. Praise the Lord for He is good!

All Great Creatures of Our God and King

2008-07-06T16:52:00.000-07:00

This spider was on our porch the other day. I'm not sure what kind he is, but he was so beautiful and BIG! It's amazing how God designed each creature, unique and purposefully (even the gnats), to give glory to His name and to reveal Himself to humans. Just as the spiders web catches insects that aren't wary of where they go, so Satan seeks to catch us when we are not wary of the way we go. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

Gift Basket

2008-07-06T16:32:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple of pictures of the finished gift basket I made for Aliza. Inside, I put onesies, a few bottles, and outfit, Hiney Helper, Baby Bottom, Tummy Tamer and a stuffed ball I made. I wrapped them in the blanket I made earlier and then set them in the basket. I found a beautiful piece of blue ribbon that matched the soft blue color of the blanket perfectly.

The ladies at our fellowship have greatly inspired and challenged me in areas like this. Giving unique gifts, wrapped with love and care has become far more important than giving expensive gifts with no thought. Thank you to all the ladies of my church who are teaching us younger women exactly what Titus said to. :)

Sewing Update

2008-07-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

The past couple of weeks have been extremely busy for us. Between chicks, experimenting and making our new products, sewing, trying to find venues to sell at and just regular old stuff like reading books, playing, scrubbing toilets and sweeping floors, it's been very hectic. My quite, alone time with God has become an even more treasured time of the day for me. Even through the extra business, late nights and early mornings, the Lord, has blessed me with renewed energy every day. It seems that God has really helped me be efficient, and redeem each minute and hour. I feel like I'm getting way more done every day than I should be. Praise God, the One who holds time in His hand!

Below are pictures of the slings, and other things I've been sewing as promised.

Here's blanket I made for a baby shower this weekend. It's a soft, crocheted light blue, with heavy, dark blue corduroy for back and edges.

This a traditional ring sling I made. It's a really pretty pattern, I think.

This ring sling is with with purple hearts. Matching bloomers to follow.

This a pouch sling. One side is black hounds tooth, the other is hot pink and black micro stripes.

I just love this little dress and matching bloomers. It's a size 2T.

This sling is white with pink and burgandy vine pattern. It's currently listed on ebay if you'd like to buy it.

Here's a close up.
This sling is neat. I really like the black and khaki geometric pattern. It also, is on ebay for sale.

Here are those matching bloomers with the purple hearts.

This sling is a pouch sling. It's reversible. One side is light green with cute little pictures, the other side is dark blue with a light blue pattern. This sling is also on ebay.

The color quality is terrible on most of these pictures, but especially this one. It's a plaid, sling with light reddish, pink and canary yellow. Probably one of my favorites.

Here's a close up of the pattern.

This sling is a reversible pouch sling. One side a manly, plaid with blues, green and yellow.

This sling is metallic denim on one side and white with pretty little red roses on the other. It too is a reversible pouch sling.

Here's a tight shot on the pattern.

This sling is a reversible pouch sling. one side alternate light and dark blue weaving, the other side is varying shades of blue camo.

Here's a close up.

These last 2 pictures are of a ring sling. the sling is blue and white striped. Too cute!

If you would like more information, or to purchase any of the slings or dress, please contact me through e-mail. Or you can leave a comment and I'll contact you. I also do custom slings and dresses, and don't forget we have an entire line of health and body for the entire family.

The name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run into it and are safe.

Local Organic Sale

2008-07-02T15:51:00.000-07:00

Today, the little boys, my sister and I had the opportunity to sell at a local/organics market. It was such a wonderful event. We were blessed to sit under trees, there was a light, flowing breeze and the lake was gorgeous. I don't suspect based on the conversation I over heard and the message of most people's clothing that there are a lot of believers who frequent these type of things. Please pray for us we try to be salt & light each week, as we certainly plan to go back.

Here's Simon and I at our table. We did very well today, considering it was our first week out there.

It was very nicely set up. The person we spoke who was in charge, Dr. Taylor, was absolutely a delight. We can't wait to see her again next week. There was a man selling all sorts of cheese. Paige said they were very good. There was a man with mushrooms, people with beautiful, locally grown vegetables and some fruit. Another lady was there selling her home made soap products! I went over and spent a few minutes at her table. I hope to see her again next week, also.

To our left was a lady with her daughter, they were selling a book (I think she wrote it.) and an herbal healing balm. Also, there was a man with bean sprouts and berries, some folks had really neat gourmet dog treats!!! Another vendor was selling a massive amount of delicious looking blueberries. One couple has flowers that were so lovely. Paige bought some for our mother.

Simon looks like he's enjoying himself.

Elijah, showing off his mouthful of animal crackers.

On a completely different note...

Thanks to my Aunt Drexell who helped me solve my tarp dilemma. She suggested I use snap straps to pull down and anchor the tarp. Here are some pictures of her idea in use.

The front.

From the side.

Now the other side.

And the back.

Does anyone have a suggestion?

2008-07-01T06:09:00.000-07:00

The problem is this section. It's right above the entrance. So I can't anchor the tarp to the door obviously.
When it rains (which the Lord has blessed us with a lot the last couple of days), it pulls the tarp down and holds it. Which wouldn't be a problem except when it holds too much, it dumps right at the entrance and all in the run.
This is a close up of how it looks when it been pulled down.
This is how it looks when I turn it back to the "right" position.

If anyone has any ideas about how I may remedy this, please let me know. There are no dumb ideas, right now it's tied down with bread ties, so...

On a Sad Note...

2008-06-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

It is with great sadness, the Reed family announces that death of Sam/Sammy the biddie. It was found dead this morning from unknown causes (although, Simon was very insist that someone "shot chicken dead"). A quick and unofficial burial took place on our property for the deceased. In lieu of flowers, please send worms to the surviving chickens.

Meet Our New Chickens

2008-06-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

This is our chicken coop!

While I cleaned and scrubbed the new coop, Simon played guns.

And then Elijah got in on it.

Here's a picture of the actual work being done.

After Paige and I got the "coop" clean, we built little chicken steps.

It was pretty difficult in fact. I'm so certainly no carpenter.

Here's Paige trying. She did a great job.

We are using an old dog pen as the run for the chickens. It hasn't been used in a while and needed some TLC.

We got our Granny out there to help us move the run to the new spot. Thanks Granny!

Then we put our coop on cinder blocks and put the steps into place.

We still needed to add straw or hay.

After wee got the coop in, we put a tarp over the run. Here's Granny helping by inspecting our work. She passed our chicken area.

Then the little boys wanted to look and play for a few minutes.

Several Hours later...

We got home with our chickens! We got 4 biddies and 4 pullets (one of them is going to the Slaughter family).

Once we got all the chickens on the ground, it was mass chaos. Chickens flapping, little boys chasing.

Simon found the bigger ones easier to grab.

4 to chose from, which one to get?

This is Paige's favorite.

We "played" with the chickens for about 10 minutes.

Elijah liked the little ones because they're easier to squeeze.

Simon kept trying to make them go into the coop.

I liked the biddies better too, but not because they're easier to squeeze.

Put one down, pick one up.

"See my chicken?"

I'm not really sure what these gals are doing.

Here's a close up little Jack or maybe Jackie, only time will tell.

We put some food out to help them adjust.

Once again, chaos broke out.

Poor Elijah almost lost a toe.

We named our 3 pullets Altha, Darlene and Maybelle. After we take the "spare" to the Slaughters, we'll decide who gets what name. The 4 little ones are Jack/Jackie, Eric/Erica, Sam/Sammy, Whit/Whitney. We'll finalize that later.

God really blessed us with the whole chicken thing. Everything we used to house them was already one site. The old dog kennel, the wood for the steps, the dog pen and tarp were just laying around. It's pretty neat to be "thrifty" and see how things turn out. I'm discovering that most everything I already have can be made into whatever I need, sometimes with just a little work. (It's amazing how good poverty can be for you!)

In Christ,

Aubry

Photos of the Health & Body Products

2008-06-25T18:17:00.001-07:00

Above are pictures of the latest products I've made to sell. From left to right; Respiratory Relief (Cream), Lip Love, Face Friend, Wound Wash, Pink Himalayan Salt, Ultra Underarm, Hiney Helper, Muscle Mover and Samaritan's Salve. Not pictured are Tummy Tamer, African Black Soap, Respiratory Relief (Liquid), Encapsulated Organic Cayenne, Encapsulated Organic Psyllium Seed, Encapsulated Organic Spirulina.

If you would like more information or to order any of the products listed, please contact me through e-mail or leave a comment. I hope to get pictures of some of the slings and clothing I've made in the next couple of days.

Thanks and God Bless.

To Grandma's House We Go

2008-06-24T18:14:00.001-07:00

When we first got to Grandma's, the little boys thought it was lunch time, again.

Simon ate Cheetos while he sat in Grandma's lap.

Then, Grandma had a special treat. Our cousin Danny set up a small pool on the back porch.

They had a BLAST!

Then Danny got in the pool too. All that hard work of pool setting up deserved a dip.

Danny brought out some toys.

And then it was time splash and play.

I love to see my boys smile and play.

Elijah was trying to throw waster on Olivia.

Peek-a-...

BOO!!!!

Then, as Grandma's usually do, a huge meal was laid out before us.

Simon and Olivia enjoy their roast, beans, rice and veggies. It was so good!

Elijah ate all his dinner and then some of mine.

The Lord grant you Peace and Grace!!!

Happy Birthday Aunt Drexell

2008-06-22T16:56:00.001-07:00

When we first arrived at the Hicks', we were met by wonderful homemade eclairs, sausage and cinnabuns.

Simon, Dalton and Elijah played in the yard.

The ladies chatted and prepared the food for cooking.

Aunt Lynley made hamburger patties. Yum Yum.

Uncle Donnie fired up the grill. Notice my Mom, she's supervising.

Elijah always stops for a photo op.

This is a really cute picture of Uncle Donnie. He's so serious.

Some of the kids played inside for a while.

Simon touched something he wasn't supposed to and burnt every finger on his hand. I put some of my Samaritan's Salve on it. It's doing very well, Praise the Lord.

My 2 most favoritests uncles stop for a well deserved break.

And then back to work.

Here's Elijah playing outside.

All the kids eventually made it back outside.

I'm not really sure what Dalton is doing, but he sure is cute.

Simon, uncross your arms and play nice!

Here's a picture of my lovely grandmother. She's admiring the Hicks' garden.

Aunt Drexell brought bubbles for the kids. It was a BIG hit.

Here's Susanna and Chandler checking on the grill masters.

After all the prep was done, the ladies sat down and chatted for a while.

Uncle Donnie and Uncle Jimmy really worked hard out in the heat for us.

Tanner blessed us all with a little music while the meal was getting the finishing touches.

Then Aunt Drexell got in on it. It was so wonderful!

The family sat around and rested while listening the beautiful music.

Chandler's ready to eat! "Where's the beef?"

Cooper juggles balloons very well. You should ask to see this amazing talent.

Jordin, radiant as always.

The food was consumed rather quickly.

Uncle Donnie enjoying the reaping of what he sowed all morning.

Elijah also enjoying the reaping of what someone else sowed for him.

Simon's too busy being nosy to eat. Notice the full plate behind him.

Aunt Lynley eating the meal.

Here's the wonderful, delicious, marvellous and all those other words cake the Hicks'

provided.

Aunt Drexell served everyone else cake on her own birthday.

Then she enjoyed hers!!! (note the lack of utensil!)

Here' s Chandler eating his second piece of cake! It sure was good.

Praise to the Lord, who formed and knitted each of us together in our mother's womb. Who knew us from the foundation of the earth and who sent His sent to die so that we might live and know Him. This past Saturday, the Lord blessed us with the chance to celebrate a wonderful life. My Aunt Drexell had her 57th birthday and all the family celebrated that occasion at my Uncle Donnie's house. It was a terrific time filled with laughter, memories, food, music, family and bubbles. God Bless Aunt Drexell and preserve her days so we can celebrate again for 58!

God Bless and Keep You.

Uncle Edgar gives Simon & Elijah a Haircut

2008-06-16T08:03:00.001-07:00

Elijah was first.

After a few minutes, he was ready to get down and play.

And here is our finished project.

Then it was Simon's turn.

He started off fussing.

"Please don't cut my ear off."

And here's cutie after Uncle Edgar finished.

After church Sunday at the Roberts', Edgar was gracious, as always, and gave Simon and Elijah a hair cut. Thanks Edgar, you always do such a great job!!!!