Closing my Household Account

Throughout the year, I kept a record book of my household expenses.  The majority of entries were entered by my youngest son, John (15). I have taught him general bookkeeping by having him look over my receipts, organize them, and enter the totals of my spending. 

At this very moment, he is closing out my accounts for the year.  He is in the process of getting monthly spending totals, by looking over the handwritten entries in my old fashioned ledger book.  He is analyzing the numbers and thinking about all the different things his mother spent money on this year.

 (There is no computer doing this for him. It is an old fashioned method of thinking and seeing the history of our financial life.)

When he finishes the monthly totals, he will give me a final figure of exactly how much money I spent during the entire year. 

Tomorrow, we will set up a new household account in our ledger book. This will be for 2013. We will make plans and goals and find ways to be as economical as we can.  Since John has been working with me all year, I will seek his advice, ideas and input.    This is a very precious way for him to learn how to manage money, by helping his Mama to manage her household funds.

Blessings
Mrs. White


Great Peace - The Note in Mother's Pocket.

When Things are Going Wrong - Forgotten Kindness in Marriage.

We Took One of These - A Vow of Poverty.







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My Books

The Following is a list of 2 of my books which are currently available.   More will be added when they are ready.   These were written from my rural Vermont home, designed to encourage mothers and homemakers.


1. For The Love of Christian Homemaking.




Details:

- 274 pages, paperback

- Includes a complete index of 160 entries.


- 6" x 9"

- Front cover image is from Mrs. White's home.

- Available for sale at Amazon.


From the back cover:

"You won't find cleaning advice or the latest ideas for saving money in this book. What you will find is a collection of over 150 visits from Mrs. White's parlour during her homemaking breaks.

Each visit is from her daily life. These include remembrances, ideas, essays or short daily journals. There are sad times and happy times; sickness and health; different moods; and dealing with the good and the bad. These are designed to encourage, inspire and motivate you to keep charm and romance alive in a humble home."






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2.  Mother's Faith.



Details

- paperback


- 6" x 9"

- Available for sale at Amazon


"Essays, Lamentations and Encouragement From a Christian Mother of Waywards"

“A little book of hope for the difficult years of Mothering older children.”

The book contains a collection of essays, gathered from this blog. They were specifically written by this mother of five, in the midst of my own sorrow and trials, over the course of 3 years.

 It is a plain, small paperback book, but packed with an important, ongoing message - Mother's Faith must never waver, no matter what the waywards do in the home. Mother will one day reap a harvest of joy. This book will help give you a holy patience.


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Get these books for FREE!  Here's how.


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For the Love of Christian Homemaking

My New Book Is Ready!

 "For The Love of Christian Homemaking: Pleasant Visits from my Parlour "

Details:

- 274 pages, paperback

- Includes a complete index of 160 entries.


- 6" x 9"

- Front cover image is from Mrs. White's home.

- Available for sale at Amazon.


From the back cover:

"You won't find cleaning advice or the latest ideas for saving money in this book. What you will find is a collection of over 150 visits from Mrs. White's parlour during her homemaking breaks. 

Each visit is from her daily life. These include remembrances, ideas, essays or short daily journals. There are sad times and happy times; sickness and health; different moods; and dealing with the good and the bad. These are designed to encourage, inspire and motivate you to keep charm and romance alive in a humble home."


This is a compilation of posts from the past 3 years, specifically chosen for the Christian homemaker.  I would love your help spreading the word.. More books are in the works. Thank you so much for your support, kind comments and continued encouragement! 

Blessings
Mrs. White




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The Note in Mother's Pocket

Throughout the day, worries often come to mother's mind.   She may be troubled about this child, or that one.  She may be concerned about finances or stormy weather.  She may be worried about her husband or how to handle some difficulty.

These thoughts can make her shaky, sad and fearful.  But the wise mother has learned a little secret.  She keeps a note in her pocket.

This note is a little reminder of the answers to all her troubles.  She will go about her homemaking duties, washing clothes, polishing furniture, doing dishes, tending the children and making food.  Every so often, she will reach in her pocket and remember the note.  This soothes her rising fears.

Sometimes, when times get really tough, mother will take the note out of her pocket.  She will lay it down on the table before her, and she will read it.  Seeing the words on the note comfort her greatly.  Then she puts the paper back in that special place, where she can carry it around everywhere. 

There is something from Scripture in I Samuel 17:47.  It is a very precious message.  No matter what our troubles, no matter what Goliaths we face, or our children face, ". . . the battle is the Lord's. . ."

And these are the very words on Mother's note.

Blessings
Mrs. White

Many Won't Like the Answer to This - Why The High Cost of Food?

Are You One of These?  - The Old Time Housewife.

I am  - Not Happily Married.



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Christmas in Vermont

It is snowy and quiet here in Vermont.   There are no crowds. There is little traffic.  The world will stop its hustle for just a little while.   In each country, throughout the entire world, many will pause and consider the birth of Christ, the coming of the Savior; and they will be humbled and grateful.

In many homes, families will gather together.  Businesses will close.  Children will look forward to Christmas dinner and Christmas treats.  They will enjoy a national holiday that acknowledges the Christian faith.  It is an amazing time.

There is a spirit of kindness, of caring and of concern for fellow man.   There is no other day like it.

From our Vermont home to yours, Have a joyful, peaceful Christmas!

blessings
Mrs. White


{If you are receiving this post by email, click on the link to take you directly to the blog and hear Christmas Cannon.}




Christmas Past:

- To Encourage the Downcast Housewife 

- A Christmas without Presents

- Mothers with Christmas Courage




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Spotting the Holy

In the old days, a child would see a police officer and know he represented help and safety. The police officer was trusted. We all knew who the officer was because of the way he dressed and the way he carried himself.  He was an ambassador for the law.

This should be the same way when people spot a person on the street. They may notice a kind demeanor, kind eyes, and a humbleness about them. Onlookers might notice a peace and they may think, "here is one of God's own."

Recently, on the news, I saw a modern day nun.  I was deeply saddened by her appearance. I am not sure which denomination she was from, because I realize not all nuns have changed, but this one was a modern one.  Her hair was dyed blond. It was hanging down and messy.  She was wearing common clothes.  Looking at her, you would have no idea she was a nun. You would have thought she was a regular, everyday person.  Why did this make me sad? Because a nun has consecrated herself entirely to God and His work.  She dresses in a specific "uniform."  When people see her, they immediately consider her to be a missionary worker for the Lord and a source of help and hope. 

This "spotting of the holy" should not be taken away.  Each of God's children must dress and carry themselves in a way that is selfless in this difficult, self-centered world.  Each representative of holiness must be somehow a little different from the masses.  And this will create thousands of lights across the land to lead many home.

Blessings
Mrs. White

Old Time Religion - These Things Will Comfort my Children.

What Will You Do? - When There Isn't Much.

Seek not thine own glory -  The Behind-the-Scenes Mother.





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A Home without Chaos

Some days I sense enough anxiety that I feel as if it will choke the life out of me. But this is what slows me down. This is what stops my busyness and takes me to a precious state of contented weariness.

It makes me yearn for a life of peace and happiness.  And this anxiety helps make it happen.

Grandfathers and Grandmothers who have slowed down, and keep to a home routine are the most peaceful people I know.  They have lived long lives and have experienced many things. Very few things surprise or startle them anymore.  They smile knowingly and have the greatest amount of patience in anyone I've ever seen.

The home routine of the elderly goes at a slower pace.  They are not rushing off to this event or that one.  They have homes without chaos.  This may seem difficult to replicate when there are little ones and teenagers with so many needs, but it can happen.  It comes from the heart.

I have cut back on so many things that there is much time for leisure.  This time of leisure makes me patient and loving and able to endure many things. 

Those around us may have trials and troubles, but Mother's presence calms and soothes it all.

 To have a home without chaos does not mean there is no trouble, for that would be a lonely, solitary place with no residents.  This home I speak of, the peaceful home, comes from a soul weary mother who is heartsick for heaven.  There is a joy in her demeanor that quiets onlookers. 

Modern day troubles are nothing to her, because they are nothing to her God.  She knows who is sovereign over all. She has great faith that He is in control. Why should she fret?

 Her heartsickness makes her talk of the great journey she is slowing taking towards her eternal home. Why should she be caught up in the trials of this life?  Her King will take care of that.   

A precious, peaceful home is a state of mind.  It is deliberate, but takes much effort.   It can happen for those who are weary of this world's game.  It starts with a mother of great faith, who knows to whom she belongs.

Do you see that heavenly light in the window?  Do you see the peace and warmth in Mother?  She is the keeper of the home without chaos.  All who enter her house, despite what they see before them, are quickly comforted by the welcome of the heaven-bound mother.

Blessings
Mrs. White

Home Memories - Security of Home Routines.

A Slow and Simple Life - How a Housewife Passes the Time.

A Peaceful Place  - A Special Kind of Home.





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When it's Time to Walk Away

Many families are living on debt. They keep borrowing money and using credit cards just to survive. I know one family who repeatedly took out home equity loans for years until the bank finally took away their home.  It is unwise to live on someone else's money knowing it can't be paid back. It is unwise to dig oneself into such a deep debt that they can never escape.

There comes a point when one has to walk away. . .

A business would never stay open if it continually lived in the red.  The responsible thing for them to do would be to close the doors, take the losses and move on.   Modern families are facing the same thing, like no time in history. Easy credit, easy loans and the brainwashing in our culture that we can pay for everything later is destroying many.  It has created families who are, without realizing it, living a financial lie and they know not how to recover.

The only way to stop the deadly financial hemorrhaging is to walk away and start over.  Find a cheaper home - an apartment, mobile home or live with relatives temporarily.   If you are renting and have a lease, explain to your landlord that you are in dire financial straights and must move.  If you own a home that is far too expensive, or that has seriously lost its value and you can't sell, tell your banker about your financial difficulties and see what they can do. If nothing is available to help, then tell them to take the house back, then walk away. 

Walk away, but only if you've tried everything else.  Walk away and start at the bottom and begin to recover. Begin to be able to buy food again, have heat in the house and clothes that are not tattered.  Begin to breathe and start over.

This may seem radical, or even irresponsible to some, but if you are continually living on borrowed money, racking up debts higher and higher with no light at the end, it is time to walk away.

There is something called debt forgiveness, and debt counseling to prevent this from happening again.  Please don't continue to live on the edge of the cliff. There is help.  And there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Walk away and start again.  Everyone deserves a second chance.

Blessings
Mrs. White

This post was written as a response to an anonymous comment on my  Living Without Credit Cards  post.  There are many readers in her situation. I hope this helps them.  Please realize, I am not suggesting everyone walk away from their financial obligations, but those in dire straights have that option. I do not want them to feel so trapped and hopeless that it is difficult to go on.



We must understand this - Financial Separation of the Social Classes.

Be Proud to be one of these - Blue Collar - Working Class Housewife.







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Homeschooling at the Library

When home got too difficult, distracting and unfriendly- to- quiet for my youngest homeschooler (15), I packed up his books and took him to the library.   Every morning, we got dressed up and took his books to the large, elegant library in town.  We went upstairs in the antique building with all its stately furniture, and sat in a large room, for 2 hours, and did his studies.  It was inspiring!

It seemed like we were in Boston, sitting in one of the rooms at Harvard College. (Okay, I have a vivid imagination!)  But the environment of that library inspired us to want to learn. . . To want to be quiet and to really study.   While my teenager worked on his books, his math and his writing, I crocheted or read from John Wesley's journals.  I sat across the table from my student and was available at any moment to help him.  But we mostly worked quietly and independently because that is how the best of learning takes place - when one is thinking and analyzing on one's own.

At times we would take breaks. I would look at the archives of historic books in the vaults, or take in the old artwork on the walls.  My student would walk through the different rooms and see what kinds of books were available. Then we would get back to our quiet little world of learning.

This daily excursion went on for months.  All too soon, the season changed and many new patrons were arriving to use computers. The tables and desks in every room were crowded with people needing wifi, and that took away the beauty and the silence of the inspired world of old fashioned learning.  So we stopped going.

I am remembering this today because, once again, my home has become crowded with noise, distractions and a great many people. The environment has become unfriendly to education.  So I must find a way to turn my own stately old home into a library of sorts. I will work on enticing the family to want to sit and learn in any of the rooms. I must pull out exciting literature, decorate the walls with art that makes one think, and try my very best to compete with the allurement of video games, computers and television. Somehow, I will make my home into a pleasant type of library that is far more interesting than the distractions that go on here.  And once I set my mind to do this, the happiness it brings me will be infectious!  All the children will think learning is pleasant, and that studying is delightful.  Even if it is only for 2 hours each day. 

Blessings
Mrs. White

Never Forget This - Education Must Not Be Rushed.

The Comfort of Home - The Light in the Window.

No Chores For Me - Mother's Cleaning Recovery.





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The Basics of Lovely Housekeeping

Some days it doesn't take very long to tidy up my house.  The kitchen is quickly cleaned, the parlour is neat, the laundry is in the machine and the floors are swept.   Once everything is in order, I sometimes wonder, "Have I done enough?"   or  "Is it possible that I can go do some other pleasant thing?"  Those are the lovely moments of doing basic housekeeping.

Yesterday, I was reading from Great Expectations.  One of my girls found a beautiful hardcover copy of this at Marshalls the last time we were in the city.  I was delighted when she bought it for me.   The rich literary wit and historical insights are amazing.   I found myself taking the book into other rooms in the house to share interesting passages with the children.  Next, I took an early afternoon rest by watching an old Frank Sinatra movie.   But one can only take so much of worldly amusements, so I turned on the gospel music and did some more housework.

Even though the day was slow paced and pleasant, I was still busy with the grandbaby, my teenagers and errands.  The housework seemed to take care of itself, in very quick bursts of cleaning.  I had much leisure time and was delighted.

When a child gets ready to do some home chore, he is often overwhelmed. He may procrastinate and take hours on a job that really only takes minutes.  This is what makes housework seem tedious, boring and painful.    When we mothers go in with a cheerful attitude and a spring in our step, we can make very basic housework look delightful.  We can accomplish a lot in a short time and then be free for other things.

One of my girls is like that.  She will go into a room, tidy up a mess in minutes and come back like she didn't exert herself in any way.  The bright happy look in her eyes and the pleasant proud smile delight our home.    She can make the house look so pretty with very little effort.

If we just realized that basic housework is only sweeping, cooking, washing, laundry and other such minor tasks, we would enjoy much more time of looking about the room, sighing content and sitting to rest in a happy, clean home.

Truly, Housekeeping is a lovely occupation.

Blessings
Mrs. White

When Things are Going Wrong - Forgotten Kindness in Marriage.

Keep it Precious - The Simplicity of Old Fashioned Homemaking.

Please Be One of These! - The Mother Who Isn't Busy.



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A Christmas Without Presents

I used to read a story to my children when they were little. It was a Christmas story. There was this young destitute boy, walking on Christmas Eve trying to find shelter. He went to a rich home. He heard laughter and happiness.  He saw lots of people in the windows, eating and very merry.  A servant came to the door, took one look at him, and sent him away.  "We don't need the likes of you here!"

Onto the next house. The boy thought the rich people would be kindly. He thought they would give him a little food and offer him a place beside the fire so he could rest and be warm.  But house after house turned him away.  This little "vagabond" would ruin their parties. He was not welcome.

The boy was just about to give up.  Tears streamed down his face as he walked out of the city. He prayed and begged God for help.   He stumbled onto an old shack with a small light in the window. He timidly knocked.  An old women answered the door. She had a great heart of motherly compassion.  She brought this poverty - stricken stranger into her home and set out to take care of him.  He was placed near the warm hearth and given a blanket.  The boy looked around at the sparsely furnished old room while he ate a warm bowl of soup.  The woman was so kind to him.  His weary soul was refreshed and grateful.

But something started to happen.  Back in the rich houses, a cry came out.  "There must be a fire over there!" They looked out the window down the street.  There was a bright light coming from an old shack.  The wealthy folks left their parties and headed towards the light.  But it wasn't a fire.  The light of holiness had shined down so bright because of the kindness of the old woman, and the joy in the heart of the poor boy.  When the rich people saw this, and that it was the boy they had turned away, they repented of their callousness.  They wanted what that boy and old woman had.  They wanted the joy of godliness and love and something far more valuable than an abundance of gifts and parties.

This year, in many homes in America, many families will not have Christmas presents. Many will not have a tree or decorations or much food.  The economy is so bad, that even if these families had a little extra cash available, they would be terrified to spend it on gifts, when that money may be needed to repair a car, pay a heating bill or make sure the family had enough basic food. 

Many homes this year will look destitute from the outside, but inside the sweet and humble hearts will be filling their homes with love and gratefulness because they have each other, and a little warm soup to share.  This year, we may very well see a bright light coming from many humble homes across the land on Christmas Eve, and those lights will not be from decorations.

Blessings
Mrs. White

What it is Like - Living Without Credit Cards.

No Money for Christmas - To Encourage the Downcast Housewife.

Make it a Lovely, Precious Place - The Romance of Home.



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Mother's Faith - My New Book

Christian Mothers today are often struggling with having a happy home because of wayward teenagers.  These mothers have spent years praying, teaching and training their children in godliness. They have a great hope for a godly family and for children who grow up to bring joy to their hearts.

Instead, many teenagers and young adults have periods of waywardness.  Their pain, their trials and their choices bring weeping and sorrow to their godly mothers.  But this is not the best way to face the trials of mothering older ones.

"Mother's Faith" is designed to help comfort these mothers. It is designed to inspire courage and bring them joy. 

The book contains a collection of essays, gathered from this blog. They were specifically written by this mother of five,  in the midst of my own sorrow and trials, over the course of 3 years. 

 It is a plain, small paperback book, but packed with an important, ongoing message - Mother's Faith must never waver, no matter what the waywards do in the home. Mother will one day reap a harvest of joy.  This book will help give you a holy patience.

Please help spread the word.   After reading the book, if you would like to leave a review on Amazon, I would be most grateful.

Blessings
Mrs. White


What Would Happen  - If I Visit You at The Dinner Hour.

Remembering When My Children Were Younger - Gathering the Supermarket Bounty.

This is so important! - Mother's Rest.




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Take Back The Home

Children can give us trouble. Teenagers can drive us crazy. And husbands can sometimes be difficult to bear. Mothers have so much to face each day, that it can be overwhelming. She may want to cower off somewhere and wait for the next "shoe to drop" before she gives up entirely. Or she may even play with the idea of moving out on her own (running away)!  When these rough times come, this is when her courage is most needed. This is when her creativity must come into play.

Mother must stand strong and Take Back The Home!

Many horrible things happened to me the last few days.  I was devastated by my circumstances and felt powerless to change them. But I finally realized that this is MY home. I am in charge. I am the mistress of this castle and it will be run in a rated G way! (smiles)  It is to be a godly home. It is to be a wholesome home.  Worldly troubles are not allowed indoors.  Rule-breakers will be firmly told not to step over the line, or consequences will keep coming, no matter how weary this mother gets.  I decided to take back my home.

First I put on my very favorite Edwardian apron. I wore my prettiest clothes and even a pearl necklace.   My mood and my courage require an appropriate uniform to show my authority as the Mother and Housewife of this lovely place. 

Next, I turned on my kitchen radio to hear a sermon of my late Uncle, a preacher from rural Alabama.  (He passed away in 1995, but many of his sermons had been recorded.)  As I listened, I remembered my childhood visits to his country church and the beauty of precious holiness, and godly living.  My courage began to soar.  I cleaned and made our humble house look lovely. 

I set out a game of chess on the parlour table.  Teenagers came by and spent hours happily playing together.   They were peacefully occupied!

A certain teenager stopped listening to her worldly music.  Another began to clean up his messes. The children started to smile and laugh and to, once again, bring joy to our hearts.  A grumpy husband cheered up because his wife was suddenly happy again, and devoted to home. 

After I spent the morning cleaning and loving my housework, I sat in a parlour chair to rest. Mr. White walked by and smiled at me.  He said he was very grateful to have me for his wife. 

I had taken back my home.

Blessings
Mrs. White


Cultivating a godly culture - Holiness from the Garage.

One of the most popular posts on this site - No Income and the Basics of Life.

Oh, please bring back suppertime. The family needs it so much. - Suppertime in a rural Home.





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The Old Time Family Gathering

"What shall we do now?" Here is a question from a parlour guest. They have just had tea, walked about the room, played a little on the piano, and want a new idea for a bit of fun.

Perhaps two are in the corner playing a game of checkers, with deep concentration.  Perhaps one of the ladies sits by the fire, busy with some handi-work.   Another comes by to see her progress, asking for pointers on her own embroidery project.

Now one offers to read a bit of poetry to the group; Or a bit of Charles Dickens to bring a bit of culture, education and character to the minds of the parlour guests.

Dinner is announced. . . All commence to a formal table for a happy time of dining with one other.

                                                         -   -   -   -   -  -

I wonder if this old time gathering is possible in this day of television, computer, and mass consumer shopping.  There are sports programs, and holiday movies to entertain guests.  There are computers which call us to visit online. People are planning their financial adventures, and want to shop at all the evening and next day sales. But what if we took a bit of yesteryear and made it possible for our families today?  What if we ignored the diversions of our time and really sat around the parlour and passed the time in a lovely, peaceful way. . .   Just for a little while.

Blessings
Mrs. White

What Happens  - When Mama Falls Asleep on the Job.

Someone has to Be Here - The Home Must Be Occupied. 

Where Mother is Dedicated to Home and Children - A Humble Parlour as a School of Theology.


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The Forever Marriage

Ideally, a marriage will last "until death do us part," as the vow is stated at the altar. This is a sacred promise we must strive to keep until the very end.   However, we are aware of difficult circumstances in today's culture.  There is rampant adultery, financial strain, easy divorce, and wives are being abandoned by husbands who want out.  It is not easy to stand committed to a "forever" marriage.

Marriage and Home are like a romance. We wives cultivate and bring beauty on a daily basis. We are like the angels of light and warmth and holy love.  We do this daily and we don't give up.  We do this regardless of any reward or appreciation. 

A Wife and  Homemaker,  has a duty to keep home and marriage a happy place, despite trials, sadness, anger and troubles.  It takes courage and a tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes work. 

The life-long marriages happen because of labor and effort.  One of the secrets is daily, moment-by-moment forgiveness. Be merciful, be slow to anger. . .  and forgive. 

 It is about working to make home and marriage lovely; making it a sanctuary and a haven. 

The following is a list of articles, stories, and ideas to help in this journey. (These are gathered from this blog, and were written by Mrs. White.)  The advice is designed for the Old Fashioned, Christian Housewife:


Not Happily Married

Forgotten Kindness in Marriage

Getting Along in Marriage

Marriage - When Groceries are the Presents

The Godly Home, Marriage, and Family

The Old Time Housewife

Bossy Wives

Recording the History of a Family

Cooking for Mister

A Wife Who Does Not Complain

When Couples Dream

Titus 2 series - Being Obedient to Your Husband

The Good Wife

Trials in the Kitchen

What I Learned from My Husband's Weariness

Are You Still Tricking Your Wife?

The Wife's Job at Home - Doing My Part

A Mother's Touch







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Free Presents for Mother

For my birthday this year, I devised a lovely plan that won't cost any money. I gathered my teenagers around and announced, "It's time for a family meeting. . . " I smiled. "About my birthday."

They came running.

I told them I wanted something so very much, and said they didn't need to spend a dime. 

One of them guessed, "We don't have to clean the house, do we?" 

"That's it!" I cheered!

But it will be much more fun than that.

I am putting together a lovely little package and will leave it on my kitchen table.  I will use a large shoe box and wrap it up with delicate wrapping paper. I will write on the top, "Happy Birthday Mother!"  Then I will put a slot in the top.

Beside this, will be a small basket with a great many index cards.  Each card will have the name of a specific chore, such as "dust all the baseboards."  There will also be a spot to sign the child's name, and the date the chore was completed.   This card will then go into the happy birthday box as a present for mother!  (The children will have an entire week to get these done.)

On my actual birthday, I will open the box, read all the cards and thank my loving children. I will then walk the house with great joy and see all the beautiful clean rooms.  I can't wait!

Blessings
Mrs. White

A Sweet Way to Communicate with the Family - A Mailbox in the House.

Financial Legacy - The Bills in the Whitman's Box.

No Money? - We Desperately Need These - Mothers with Christmas Courage.




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A Full and Busy House

I love it when all my children are back at home. The house is busy and full of wholesome fun and activity.   My oldest ones will soon be here for Thanksgiving, and it will be just like the old days.

I was reading a homemaker book from the 1970's. The author talked about how her grandmother had it easier because her "nest" never emptied:

"In  my grandmother's day the children didn't leave home until they married.  Not one of her chicks established his own nest as a single person.  Consequently when the last one left home, Grandma was seventy-one."  - Terry Hekker

A full house, with children of all ages, brings joy to a homemaker.  There is always someone to visit with, bake with, play games with, and share laughter over a plate of cookies. 

Older children spend time out in the world, and bring home stories and news of  life "in the fast lane."  I love to be the one who is here to welcome them back, and delight in their presence.

Blessings
Mrs. White


What My Dear Son Did - Presents to Cheer Me Up.

Marriage - What I Learned from My Husband's Weariness.

In Case You Wonder - How a Housewife Passes the Time.





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Amazing Dedication

Somewhere, in the middle of the world,  a heavenly light shined down on a virtuous Mother.   The angels watched, as she walked the earth with amazing dedication to the Lord.

Through her life, temptations came, but could not take her away from her mission.  It all started one afternoon, when she shut off the television, put aside a magazine, and vowed to give up her collection of worldly fads.  Something had happened.  The things of earth had suddenly become dim. Her worldly interest had faded.  The former things of the heart had passed away.   All it took was one little, hesitant step toward the warmth of holiness, and she was overjoyed with a yearning for heavenly treasures.

In Scripture, we are told to follow the Lord with all our heart.  There is no room for other loves, or worldly ambitions.  There is no room for worldly pursuits, because that would take away the time and the heart from the focus of the mission.

We are told not to turn aside.  We are not to become distracted by the glitter or the entertainment in this world.  This too will weaken the loving heart and take us away from our mission.

All earthly pursuits that are not founded on a godly vision, will be but hay and stubble at the end of one's life.  

The holy war, for the virtuous mother, is to recognize the subtle distractions and to have the courage to ignore them.  It is a daily battle. One that makes one incredibly weary, unless one is constantly warming oneself by the beauty of Scripture, old time sermons, hymns and solid church fellowship.

What else do you think Susanna Wesley (1600's) meant when she said, regarding the spiritual training of her children,  "I have lived such a retired life for so many years.  No one can, without renouncing the world in the most literal sense, observe my method: and there are few, if any, that would entirely devote above twenty years of the prime of life in hopes to save the souls of their children."   Two of her nineteen children, went on to be famous ambassadors of the Lord. John Wesley was an amazing preacher.  His brother Charles wrote some of the most beautiful hymns one could ever hear.

How else could any of this happen without Amazing dedication?  Is it painful to say no to the world and all its glitter?  Of course!  Is it painful and wearisome to stay on that little narrow path? Certainly. But the discipline it takes to make the effort is rewarded and relieved, when the flood of peace and heavenly joy comes in to renew and regenerate the mother's spirit.

At the end of her life, when others look over the earthly possessions of the departed, they expect to find worldly goods to sort.  Instead they find a hymn book, and  a tear stained Bible (for the path is hard, but worth it). Everything else was gone.  Because by the time she reached the heavenly gates, all her interests and worldly cares had dropped away.   Leaving the beauty of a dedicated life that amazed the souls she left behind.

And this heroic legacy made many want to stand strong for this same cause, the cause of being a holy light in a corrupt world.  On that day thousands more virtuous mothers came along and filled her place on this earth.  This is amazing dedication because of the AMAZING GRACE and LOVE of our dear Lord.

Now let me ask you this. . .  . Are we really following him? Or are we like the toddler child who is constantly getting tangled in the weeds of the world?

The virtuous mother craved and loved the church. She loved her Bible above all things.  She observed daily religious duties for the sake of her soul. And these small efforts kept her on the holy path.  This is what made the light shine down from heaven.  And the angels watched and were blessed by her life.

Blessings
Mrs. White


Ideas for - A Happy Home.

The Classic Old Fashioned Housewife.

To Encourage the Mother of waywards - What Sundays Used to Mean to Housewives.



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The Dinner Hour

I entered my parlour this afternoon, after being out in the cold on errands. We had bags and papers and things everywhere. It was time to prepare (mentally and literally) for the dinner hour.

I turned on a sermon tape, on my kitchen radio, of A. W. Tozer, "The Plague of the Heart," and  worked in my home, while being nourished and strengthened by godly wisdom.

Soon the dishes, from the day, were soaking. The counters looked neat. The table was cleared and shining.  The chairs were in order and the floor was picked up.  Home looked lovely.

I will light a candle before the sun sets. I will get the Bibles ready to prepare for evening worship, after dinner.  There will be no watching of television, or computer time, or listening to secular news or music.  It will be a sacred time of our family gathering together at our family table.   It will be the dinner hour.

To make the dinner hour successful takes labor, and vision, and an eagerness to enjoy home.  It takes a pushing aside of all worldly thoughts and worries and activities. It is time to calm the heart and to soothe the soul.  It is time to make family and loveliness and charm and the beauty of home a sacred obligation.

We will pray and eat and enjoy fellowship at the family table.  It will be a precious time because Mama made it happen.

Blessings
Mrs. White

A Precious Gift - A Wife Who Does Not Complain.

What Life is Like With Little Money - Living Without Credit Cards.

Take Time to Read - The Old Vintage Hymn Book.



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Sweet Hours at Home

Evening at home is a lovely time, even in the most humble home.  The housewife might be mending by the fire, smiling at the children while they play.  Father is reading the paper, and sharing a bit of news that may interest his little brood.

The family has had their supper, and finished their nightly chores.  They enjoy some time in the warm room, forgetting the days troubles.

The world is shut out. The day is done.  These are sweet hours on the home front.

Soon it is time for family prayers. . .  The Bible is read.  Prayers are said.  Then each one is tucked into a warm bed.

Another precious day has become a beautiful memory.


Blessings
Mrs. White


Essential Bedtime Routine for the Family - Mother's Rest.

Everyone Helps - Family Economy.

Calling the Children for Supper - Mother's Dinner Bell.




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I Dreamed About Mama Last Night

Oh, that we were mothers like this. Ones that our children would fondly and wistfully remember with tears in their eyes, after we are in the grave.

I pray they will think of us, and remember to walk the straight and narrow with joy, comforted by the well tread footsteps we walked before them.



"I Dreamed About Mama Last Night" by Hank Williams






Blessings
Mrs. White


Grandpa's Influence - Holiness from the Garage.

American Family Heritage - The Blessing of Being a Half-Southern Mama.

Learning from a Little Nostalgia - Home Economics Television in 1949.


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Mother Was Here

The baby kept me very busy today.   Sometimes, he will play happily on a quilt, or in his little seat. Then I can do the dishes, or start a load of laundry.  We all take turns holding him, while someone makes supper, a snack, or cleans up a mess. We work in the middle of the joy of this blessing of a baby in our home.

This afternoon, no one was around while I took care of baby and kept the house. The kitchen had its noon mess, waiting for attention.  While the baby played, I deep cleaned the stove top and one of the counters.  These two areas were spotless, while the other half of the kitchen was neglected.  But those clean sections brought me great happiness.  Looking at them, sent a precious message to say, "Mother was Here."

Years ago, my father used to joke about our childhood home. He said the house was such a mess that if the police had come, they wouldn't know if there had "been a struggle."  For the life of me, I cannot remember our house even slightly messy. This must have happened when we were all babies and toddlers.  But it is fun to imagine my very neat mother, with a messy house.  She knew what was most important.  I am sure she had clean spots in her house that sent the bless-ed message that, "Mother was Here."

We all know that babies don't keep.  Lately, I spend most of my time sitting by the window, in my grandmother's old rocking chair, holding her great-great grandchild, and wondering how happy she must be, smiling down at us from heaven.  

Each Mother, in each generation, leaves legacies, memories, creations and sweet lessons. Their diligent work in the home, and their caring for babies, is their greatest accomplishment in life.

How precious is the comforting evidence in our daily lives, that "Mother was Here."


Blessings
Mrs. White

Please Be One of These - The Mother Who Isn't Busy.

A Precious Home Life - Security of Home Routines.

I am - A Mother of Sinners.



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The Care and Keeping of Home

There are so many things I would like to do at home, but they are all related to recreation. This makes it difficult for me to actually work in, and around the home.  I would rather have a day of ease and enjoyment.  This is mostly a daily battle. 

I have to make housework fun and pleasant so it seems like recreation.  Yesterday, I kept calling for my 15 year old son, John. I told him, "We should spend some time together. Since I love cleaning, let's do that!"  He would just smile and walk away.   He thinks I am funny. But I was serious. (gentle smiles)

There has to be some way I can make housework exciting for my family.  Sometimes we talk and laugh while we work. This is a great way to pass the time, and get things accomplished. But here is the problem - it is not really about getting things accomplished, it's about enjoying the process of maintaining a home.

Right now, here in New England, it is shockingly beautiful outside. I think I will sweep the porch. Maybe someone will rake the leaves while I am out there. Then we can sit and visit before coming back inside.

I  can also ask someone to help me bake cinnamon rolls.  I am sure plenty of people will help us eat them!  There is fun in family - centered homemaking.

Little Girls used to dream about having a house and a family of their own. Now that we are grown up, isn't housekeeping and motherhood just as exciting as it was then? Or did we forget to make our own fun, and enjoy playing house?

Creating meals, setting tables, washing dishes, baking, and reading to children are all lovely activities.  .  . There can be joy in cleaning and organizing.

I wonder. . .  Can't we all just wake up excited to be able to wash our floors?    Maybe If I ask John to help me. . . .

Blessings
Mrs. White

What would happen? - If I Visit you at The Dinner Hour.

I'd Love to Have one of These - A Jane Austen Day - When Mother is Worn Out.

Do You Wash Your Dustpan? - A Little Visit - Happy Homemaking.


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Mother's Glory

One of the greatest delights of motherhood is taking pride in our young children. We work hard to bathe, feed, educate, train and clothe them.  They are like precious cherubs who delight us and give us joy.  We love and adore them.

Our most difficult task, however, is instilling virtue and moral values into their characters. We take them to Sunday school and Church events.  We read the Bible and pray with them. We make Bible time and family worship a daily habit, hoping and praying it will take root in their souls and give them the peace that passeth all understanding, and lead them to their eternal home.

As time goes on, our little ones get into the middle years and things get harder. They begin taking different paths and making childish decisions that cause them harm.  When they are teenagers and young adults, they may fall into a great many trials. And this will make a mother weep.  She may go into a deep despair and be heartbroken for many years.

The bravest of mothers will smile through this dark time, and bring as much heavenly light into the home as she possibly can. She will still seek holiness and will endure, knowing the dawn will soon come.

One great day, Mother's glory will shine forth.  The glory is -  finally realizing that it is God that molds and shapes a holy soul, and it is HE who gets the glory.  If the child had grown, with ease, under mothers dedicated care, without a fault or a trial, then her skills and talents would have received all the praise.  Nay, let it not be so.

That family  may have shined here on this earth, but the brighter reward is the holy warmth of the Lord which shaped the souls of mother's children.  It is the mothers tears and work and turmoil through the years that is praised. But the final result, the reality of Mother's glory, is the humble and broken gratefulness of seeing God work in their lives, of God stepping in and doing the miracles, and of God making holy citizens out of the descendants in Mother's house.

The glory is the Lord's.  Remember this the next time you fall into weeping for your children. 

Blessings
Mrs. White

A Good Reason for Not cleaning - Mother's Cleaning Recovery.

Teaching Unselfishness at Home - Just for Company.

Precious Memories - When Television was Special.




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