Shopping for Mother's Day

A few days before Mother's day, we children would walk about a mile to the local "Brooks Pharmacy," in Massachusetts.   They had the greatest selection, and so many wonderful items for sale.  We would look at the jewelry, the household goods, and the candy.  We usually bought Mother's favorite perfume, Musk by Alyssa Ashley.  It had such an elegant, pleasant scent!

When we were in our early teens, we often got Mom a store-bought card.  From the time we were around 12 years old, each of us had some source of income - mostly from babysitting or housecleaning for our neighbors.  There was a sense of pride buying something for Mother, with money we had earned ourselves.

In those days, we children helped make mother's day special.  Of course, our Father always surprised Mom with something that made her very happy.  He wanted her to feel rewarded for all her efforts at home, and for taking care of us.

All these years later, I am remembering my own Mother's days.  I have a box full of cards the children made me over the years. I love to read them again each year! 

I love to attend church on this special day.  There is always a message encouraging Mom in godly living.   After service, we go home to an easy dinner.  We often spend time in the yard, just resting.

Mother's day is often the time to visit the graveyard. It is a time to leave flowers and say prayers for our Mothers and Grandmothers who have gone ahead to our Heavenly Home.  This is a sad and somber day, when one understands the fragility of time.

This year, I will spend time praying for more patience and more wisdom as a Mother.  My children will probably buy me flowers for the front porch.  They will probably buy me my favorite snacks, and some candles.  Their handmade cards will be cherished like always.  But Mother's day is really a day to be grateful for each child, and to feel honored to be their Mother!

Blessings
Mrs. White



For Home-keeping Inspiration, order my book - For The Love of Christian Homemaking. 


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Afternoon Knitting

After my morning work is done, in the home, I have been happily knitting.  I have always wanted to knit a pair of fingerless gloves, but couldn't seem to figure out how.   I stumbled onto an easy pattern, perfectly explained.  I was delighted.  It took me quite some time before I actually started the project, but one pleasant afternoon, I found some yarn in my dressing room and got to work.

At times, I forget basic things, like how to cast on, or bind off.  (Frankly, I am not that bright. - smiles)  I have been grateful for a little helper that has made my knitting time very easy.  It is a pretty little book called,  The Knitting Answer Book.

It took me about a week to finish the project.  I only knitted during my afternoon homemaking breaks.  It was a special time and I enjoyed the work. 

Now that the gloves are finished, I need to find another easy project.  I am wanting to get out the ironing board and iron pretty material for sewing projects. Maybe I will make a new apron for spring.

I can keep my sewing box handy for the next few months. I will even take it out on my front porch to enjoy the warm sunshine while I hand-sew.   

Afternoons are such a peaceful time to begin winding down the day. Most of the work is past, the dinner hour will soon arrive. But that little space of time before the sun sets, is perfect for hand projects.  One can listen to the quietness of the day, the birds chirping outside, the wind blowing, or even a convicting sermon on CD!

How do you spend your afternoons at home?

Blessings
Mrs. White




For Home-keeping Inspiration, order my book - For The Love of Christian Homemaking. 


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Not More Than We Can Bear

Our Financial troubles are easing. Yesterday was a beautiful day. The sun gave its warmth and the day was bright and pleasant. I sat on the front porch and read a Dickens' novel.

Mr. White and the men of this house have been busy installing a new hot water heater.  There are all kinds of plumbing difficulties since our old model was from the 1950's, and a new set of pipes are required.

This morning, my car was given back to me. It is now fixed. The cost was minimal and that was a relief!

Our financial burden became a joy when angels flew in and blessed us with kindness.  Their collective help made it possible for us to pay for the new heater and plumbing parts so we had no need to borrow money.  Those dear people know who they are and I am most grateful!

While we still have trouble with our high heating bill, the sky is brighter and we are happy and content.

The warm spring weather has helped me feel so much better. The chill is gone.  The beauty of spring is here.  And even though we still don't have any hot water, we feel tremendously thankful.

Blessings
Mrs. White





For Home-keeping Inspiration, order my book - For The Love of Christian Homemaking. 


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Hard Times

There are periods of crisis in the homes of the lower class.   This is for the working class, who are often listed as living in general poverty.  Hard times make survival even more difficult.  Rising utility costs, transportation, and the high cost of food make basic needs almost too expensive.

 We are in one of those periods of hard times right now.  Mr. White and I are having car troubles.  My car broke down last week.   I have been unable to do my errands or take one of my boys to church events.  Because we live in a rural area, no one can help with the driving.   Mr. White has this large old van that was given to him, years ago, by a relative.  I am afraid to drive it.  I can only manage to drive the little cars or possibly mini-vans.    So early each evening, Mr. White has offered to take me to the store.  He has his own errands to do, but takes me along.  He opens the door for me and buys me Pepsi.  I am able to get his help in deciding what will be for dinner.  My evening outings with Mr. White would not happen if I had a car I could drive on my own. This brings a blessing out of suffering.

As this past weekend began, we woke to find that our hot water heater was broken.  The plumber arrived and found the damage was quite extensive.   I went off to one of the rooms and watched episodes of "Seventh Heaven" on DVD while Mr. White helped the plumber.  It turns out that our water heater is this pretty unit from the 1950's.  We had to wait until late Monday afternoon for a specialist (in older units) to come by and pronounce it needed to be replaced.  Of course, we had to pay for the service calls and still be without hot water.  In a home where there are no credit cards and no debt, one would think we had plenty of money saved to pay for such events.  Well, we scraped up enough to pay the service fees, but then we had to figure out how to replace the unit.

The plumber quoted us several hundred dollars.  We won't be calling him back.  Somehow, the men in this house (who are not plumbers) will figure out a way to buy a unit from the local hardware store (there are no Home Depots in the middle of nowhere - smiles).  They will find a way to do the work themselves.  We managed to borrow the money from one of our grown children. We will pay it back very quickly over the next few weeks, by scrimping and being careful.

In the meantime, I have been heating water on our electric stove for baths and dishes. This makes one grateful for running water.

This has happened right in the middle of one of my health breakdowns. I have been mostly bedridden for several days.  (I really believe the chill of the cold, and fighting despair can add to one's physical woes.)  Late last week, I told my boys, "I am taking a sick day. You will have to do the chores."  I have been resting ever since.

Is that enough of a crisis? Of course not. . . . Our electric statement arrived with a ridiculous bill.  Our wood pellet stove had broken down last year and we have been relying on electric heaters to try to stay warm all winter.  It has not worked well.  The cost is unbearable and we are still cold.

Somehow we will make the most of this.  Living in poverty is not new to many Americans.  Perhaps someone will go to the local pawn shop and sell something of value to help pay these bills. Perhaps we will go without a few more things to handle the crisis.  Once the smoke clears and all is well again, we will continue to scrimp and save and build up our savings for the next emergency.

This is the adventure of living in poverty for the lower class. It is a way of life.  Most of us, in this life,  will have periods of seeming wealth, and of dire poverty.  It is nothing new.  Yet, in these moments, our helplessness leads us to the source of all comfort and wealth.  It leads us to the Lord, our Father, who will care for His children. All will be well.


Blessings
Mrs. White




For Home-keeping Inspiration, order my book - For The Love of Christian Homemaking. 


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Focus on the Family Presents - Les Miserables

Audio CD - Les Miserables

Presented by: Focus on the Family

This 3 CD set has a running time of 169 minutes.

This beautiful story has a setting in 19th century France.  It is based on a classic novel by Victor Hugo (A French writer in the 1800's).  

This audio adaptation is fascinating and a delight to hear.  It was recorded in London and has a professional cast who did an incredible job. 

The main character in the story is Jean Valjean.  He is an ex-convict who cannot ever escape his past.  No matter what he tries to do in life, he seems to be always hunted and accused, because he was once a prisoner.   In the beginning, he meets with a kind couple whose hospitality and compassion help him make a new start in life.  Eventually, he builds up a new reputation, under a new name, and has a tremendous influence for good in his community.  His riches, and charity in life are amazing. But what is most precious, is his unselfish character and actions. 

This is an epic story, highly inspiring and an excellent production.  Listening to the story on audio CD was relaxing and a wonderful break from watching a movie on television.   I highly recommend this radio theater presentation.

*Disclaimer - I received a copy of this product for review purposes.*



To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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The New Mother's Faith

Late last year, I released a book for mothers of waywards.  It is now out of print.  A second edition is now available.  It is the exact same book, to which has been added:  An introduction, and two brief essays. 

This edition is 102 pages, a pretty pink, and is a compact purse size.

Title:  Mother's Faith:  Essays, Lamentations and Encouragement from a Christian Mother of Waywards.

I have been getting emails and comments from readers who have been greatly encouraged and helped by this book. 

It is designed to comfort Mothers and strengthen their faith.  It is designed to gently remind them to have a holy patience and to trust God with their children. 

At times, the book is painful to read. (I still cry when reading some of the chapters.)  The sadness mothers of waywards feel is universal, regardless of the circumstances.

By the end of the book, however, I hope you are no longer crying. I hope you are smiling and greatly encouraged to keep going!

I would love your help in spreading the word about this book.  Here are ways you can help:

 

1.  Write a review on Amazon.

 

2.  Share about the book on Facebook.

 

3. Share about the book on your blog.  [If you have an affiliate account with Amazon, you can use your referral link to earn a commission on any sales of the book that come through your blog.]

 

 

Thank you for your help. I am grateful for your support and ongoing encouragement.

Blessings
Mrs. White






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Gathered Safe at Home

I came home from an errand yesterday afternoon to find one of my son's watching devastation at the Boston Marathon on CNN news.   We just sat there, in shock. 

I watched the news off and on, for the rest of the day. I checked the doors to make sure they were still locked.  I wanted to drive for hours to see my grown daughters and hug them, and just comfort them and thank God that they were okay, even though we are not in Massachusetts right now.  But I talked to them on the phone and they were okay.  I wanted everyone safe.  I wanted everyone home.    I prayed. We all prayed.

Then I had to do my housework.  I had to do the dishes and make supper.  I had to feed the family. Then I went back to the television.  As more news unfolded and more details were given, I realized that some of the victims of the bombing were being cared for in the very hospital where I gave birth to one of my children.  That was my city where this happened.   One of my grown girls, just a few weeks before, had spent several days in Boston on a visit. I told her, through my fear, not to go there anymore.

We are shaken by this.  We are stunned by the cruelty of this horrific act. 

This morning, I will watch more of the news, but I will still take care of my home and my family.  I must make every effort to make our home like a light house for my family;  a place of refuge from the world.  All I can do right now, is take my worries to the Lord, while I continue to cook and clean and read my Bible and pray.   I can do what is before me and care for those that are here.  And trust that God will take care of the rest.

Blessings
Mrs. White




For Home-keeping Inspiration, order my book - For The Love of Christian Homemaking. 



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Writing Out the Old Home Recipes

Some of my grown children are asking me for our family recipes, so they can cook and bake in their own kitchens.  It would be very easy for me to write them out on index cards and ship them off in the mail.  But how much more fun would it be to make a little handmade booklet of family recipes, cooking hints, and little family remembrances to go with it?

I have some pretty green heavy stock paper. I can use this as a cover.  I will fold it in half, to make it resemble a little booklet. Inside will be plain white paper, folded as well.  I can staple this in the center to "bind" the book.

To have a little fun, I can title it something like, "Recipes from The White House,"  or "The Little Book of Cookery from The White House."  [One must find ways of enjoying one's name when the situation arises. - gentle smiles.]

I have 12 common dinner recipes, several lunches, and a few breakfasts.   To this, I will add some baking recipes, and economical snack ideas.  I will also write an estimate of how much each recipe will cost.

Yesterday, I had full charge of my kitchen. (In other words, I did all the work alone.)  I made my boys a nice lunch of homemade pizza.  I cleaned the kitchen throughout the day.  As the sun began to set, I asked one of them, "Will you be needing a baked good this evening?"  He didn't know what I meant by that (smiles).  So I translated, "Do you want me to bake something for you?" Well, of course He did!  I made peanut butter, chocolate chip muffins.  Then I told the boys I was off duty for the night and they were to have sandwiches or leftovers if they got hungry later.  I walked out of that very clean kitchen, with the dim lamplight shining on those delicious muffins.  . . These are the kinds of memories of home that my grown children miss.

I think it is more precious to take one's time creating things of lasting value that will be cherished.  My book of family cookery will be humbly made with humble recipes.   But it will take me a few weeks, as I sit by the window, in great-grandmother's rocking chair, and write out the history of our kitchen for the next generation.

Blessings
Mrs. White








For Home-keeping Inspiration, order my book - For The Love of Christian Homemaking. 



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Comforts of The Old Estate

Old, quaint homes create a sort of ambiance that makes one cheerful.  One can even be imaginative and creative with one's life.  These types of homes are ideal for artists and inventors. 

In our old 1800's house, there is a large, sunny room on the first floor. It is warm and cozy.  I can read on the little Ethan Allen sofa that we bought at an auction, on the grounds of the home we now own. I can see the front property and enjoy the quiet seclusion of our "estate."

The reality of living in an old house, when one is of limited means, is suffering with cold and dreary rooms.  Any of us could give in to our difficult circumstances and dwell on that which is unpleasant.  We could certainly allow ourselves a few hours, or days, of indulging in melancholy moods, but then to emerge from that with a new zeal and excitement for the possibilities can make things so much better.

Does it matter that my Ethan Allen couch is designed with an odd color, or that it is ripped up and overly worn from age?  Only to onlookers.  To me it is very comfortable.  We keep it covered with a flowery bedspread, and a few throw pillows.  As long as the surroundings are neat and tidy, the couch adds a pleasant coziness to the room.

The Homemaker who calls her home an "estate," "cottage" or other such charming term, will find happiness in her daily tasks - making the home pleasant, because she has found a way to make the most of her circumstances.    She will not get caught up in the crankiness of family members. She will not get caught up in the neighbor's gossip.  She can be a bright light and a joy to those around her because she is dedicated to the ART of creating a comfortable, pretty home - with what she has.   This becomes her hobby, her vocation, her calling.

I'll admit it is easier to have an "estate" when one has an old house. But a beach house, an apartment, or a mobile home can inspire the residents to bring joy to their guests if the homemaker takes a little time to invent her own little retreat.   What would one call an apartment?  How about a "flat" (A London term), or think of the charming little places in Italy?  What about a mobile home? Could one call it a cabin? Or a camper in the park?  There are so many different types of places to live!  We just have to find a way to make them special and pleasant.  This will bring us comfort.  This will bring our family comfort.  This is what will motivate and inspire us to keep house, especially on those difficult days.

Blessings
Mrs. White






For Home-keeping Inspiration, order my book - For The Love of Christian Homemaking. 



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The Weary Housewife

I think we all have these ideals of being a good housekeeper.  We have set chores, like washing floors, dusting and polishing on a regular basis.  One day last week, I enjoyed an entire day of just cleaning.  The house looked lovely. I took short breaks as needed, and paced myself accordingly to avoid becoming tired.  I was able to work in the kitchen and cook nice meals.  It was the perfect housekeeping day. 

But sometimes the "ideal" housewife is impossible.  We are a culture of exhausted mothers.  We have sicknesses, and distractions that are making it harder and harder for us to enjoy our work in the home.  Being our "own" boss would imply that we could stop all unhealthy activities and interferences so we could focus entirely on mothering, homemaking and being a good wife.   But few of us have such courage.  Or is it something we have to continually strive for? 

The last few days have been miserable for me.  I am unbearably weary from health difficulties.  I decided, late yesterday afternoon, to put myself on bed - rest for a few days.  It's not that I even do too much around the home, it is that my health has been declining for such a long time, there is little I can do anymore.  More rest requires me to stop what I love to do.  I love and adore keeping house. I love vacuuming and washing floors and cooking meals. It is what I delight in.  But my health will not allow it.  So back to bed I must go, for a time of respite.  Then I will emerge ready to keep house, but at a slower and slower pace. 

Yet, I will never give up.  . . I will certainly take times of rest and recovery. But I will never stop trying to keep this house for my precious family.  We housewives will get knocked down by many things in this life.   We must always get up and keep at it.  Rest, yes, but keep going. Heaven is waiting at the end, and the eternal rest will be glorious!

Blessings
Mrs. White



For Home-keeping Inspiration, order my book - For The Love of Christian Homemaking. 



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$25 Gift Card Giveaway - and Fiber One Bars

Fiber One Bars are a great way to have a snack while adding more fiber to your diet.

The bars are chewy and fresh tasting.  I received four different bars:


1. Oats and Chocolate (with 35% daily fiber value).  [This one is my favorite!]

2. Trail Mix  (with 35% daily fiber value).

3. Caramel Nut protein bar (with 20% daily fiber value).

4. Coconut Almond protein bar (with 20% daily fiber value).
 

I also received a $25 gift card to Publix supermarket.


The Giveaway

How would you like a chance to win 4 Fiber One Bars and your own $25 Publix gift card?

 To enter, all you have to do is leave me a comment, telling me if you have a Publix supermarket in your area. If not, who will you give the gift card to?

For additional Entries:

1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Post about this on Twitter.

3. Follow me on Twitter.

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*

One random winner we be selected on Thursday, April 4, 2013. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you. 

This contest is closed.  The winner is Crystal!
 

*Disclosure - "The information, products and gift pack were provided by General Mills and Publix® through MyBlogSpark."*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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