Spoiler alert! I am about to wax political,philosophical and recall moments from my past.
Less anyone think I am too satisfied with the status quo in this "country" or am a doing nothing Patriot, I'd like to interject a note of rebellion in today's post.
I would love to say I am a die-hard American, but I am unsure if that is true anymore. I love the idea of what America used to stand for, but am heartbroken over the lack of "good" morals, values, respect, sense of responsibility, and downright lack of decency that abounds in today's society.
Twenty-five years ago we decided to raise our new family in a small, rural, South Texas town. We firmly believed that small town values with that Mayberry mentality would be a great way to raise a family. It happened somewhat, but the degradation that is today's social mores have ventured even out here.
Last week, an 80 year old man was robbed, beaten, killed and his body tossed into a ditch not far from our home. Seriously!? I didn't know this man, but my heart hurts for the pain he endured, and his family endures now. I am also angry that someone felt that they had the right to commit this crime. Sin abounds, even in a small town.
I don't feel old, but when I think of those days growing up in the early 70s on the East Coast, and remember how wonderful it was to be able to play in the woods all day with my friends, and to remember we didn't worry about our safety at all, I think too many years have passed.
The country I was raised to love is virtually gone. The excitement, and feelings of patriotism as I stood and watched the Bicentennial Parade in downtown D.C. have been replaced by feelings of sorrow, and a burgeoning pride that I am fortunate to live in TEXAS. TEXAS has her issues, but is (for the moment) way better than the lie that is PAX AMERICANUS.
The fear and uncertainty that I face daily, is held at bay through my reading the Word of God, and in daily communication with the Lord. Without Him, and His ever abiding presence to remind me that HE is in charge, I would be a wreck.
The conflicting emotions I have for America, are even more at the fore front of our lives, as we prayerfully consider the best course of action PD#1 should take with her life. She will be graduating in the next 1 to 2 years from our home school (depends on how she applies herself), but she has been offered the opportunity to apply to the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory school. The preparatory school is a 10 month program, culminating in 95% of attendees being offered slot to the U.S. Air Force Academy. We are in the beginnings of researching and reading information on eligibility requirements, as well as, trying to decide if we want her to do this...we really do not advocate the military for our daughters, but if God is opening this door for her, there must be a reason. We will be praying and seeking His guidance in this matter.
I am not really sure my personal feelings support her going. The concern of being involved in any way with the U.S. Government is not something to take lightly, nor do I want to be lulled into the perceived "prestige" of such an undertaking.
On a positive note PD#1 was recently promoted to Cadet SMSgt in Civil Air Patrol, and is currently studying for her Chief's test. After that she will be studying to take the Officer's test (2nd Lt). She is really motivated and loves Civil Air Patrol. We work at supporting her interest in Civil Air Patrol, and are happy to glean the positive aspects of this program.
Okay, time for bed. More on this subject later.
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Happy Independence Day 2014!
Well, here we are at another 4th of July. Time sure goes by fast. The weather lately has been pretty mild for South Texas in the Summer. Low 90's, with only a couple of days of higher temps. We had a lot of rain the past month too, 10+ inches. The pond is full, and everything is wonderfully green.
No garden this year for us, we are way too busy. Concentrating on downsizing our goat herd, and increasing our cattle numbers. Also, in the plans is getting a bee hive (box) set up, learning more about bees, and getting ready to install them next Spring. Thankfully, I will have some help from a friend's husband (they are local, yeah!) for some advice and help.
I have also been studying my midwifery info, observing prenatal appointments with a licensed midwife, and basically learning all I can. After attending the midwife seminar a couple of months ago (it was a two-day course) I have my emergency bag packed and ready for use (if needed).
Canning will be starting this weekend. I have an abundance of jalapeno, Serrano and banana peppers from a co-worker. I will be pickling them, and making salsa. Prickly pear tunas aren't ready yet, but the Wild Mustang Grapes should be ready anytime now (usually by the end of July), along with the pears.
We have 15 Freedom Ranger broilers should be ready to butcher the end of this month (we'll see how they look). The quail aren't laying in the heat, and I am getting one egg a day from the three hens that we have. I have four more coming up (4 months old), but it sure is hard re-building a flock after they are virtually decimated. I have three roosters though, two may get butchered along with the Freedom Rangers.
Taking an inventory of what needs to be done around the place. I am going to list it here, so I won't forget.
1) haul downed trees to wood pile
2) chop wood and stack to dry
3) finish all laundry
4) fix clothes line
5) put additional rain catchment gutters up and install barrels/containers
6) clean wood stove & chimney
7) order new filters for Berkey
8) clean out back room of container
9) install new shelving in container
10) organize storage items (old clothes, canning jars, starter kits, sewing notions, etc.)
11) clean up trash around land
12) remove trash from pond (blew in during storm)
13) clean out fire pit
14) clean out barn for new hay
15) put hog cage up at trap door in rear fence
16) build berm to retain water run-off from pond
17) fix South Pasture fence
18) enlarge garden
19) plant pumpkins
20) plant wheat
Here are some pictures from around the farm:
No garden this year for us, we are way too busy. Concentrating on downsizing our goat herd, and increasing our cattle numbers. Also, in the plans is getting a bee hive (box) set up, learning more about bees, and getting ready to install them next Spring. Thankfully, I will have some help from a friend's husband (they are local, yeah!) for some advice and help.
I have also been studying my midwifery info, observing prenatal appointments with a licensed midwife, and basically learning all I can. After attending the midwife seminar a couple of months ago (it was a two-day course) I have my emergency bag packed and ready for use (if needed).
Canning will be starting this weekend. I have an abundance of jalapeno, Serrano and banana peppers from a co-worker. I will be pickling them, and making salsa. Prickly pear tunas aren't ready yet, but the Wild Mustang Grapes should be ready anytime now (usually by the end of July), along with the pears.
We have 15 Freedom Ranger broilers should be ready to butcher the end of this month (we'll see how they look). The quail aren't laying in the heat, and I am getting one egg a day from the three hens that we have. I have four more coming up (4 months old), but it sure is hard re-building a flock after they are virtually decimated. I have three roosters though, two may get butchered along with the Freedom Rangers.
Taking an inventory of what needs to be done around the place. I am going to list it here, so I won't forget.
1) haul downed trees to wood pile
2) chop wood and stack to dry
3) finish all laundry
4) fix clothes line
5) put additional rain catchment gutters up and install barrels/containers
6) clean wood stove & chimney
7) order new filters for Berkey
8) clean out back room of container
9) install new shelving in container
10) organize storage items (old clothes, canning jars, starter kits, sewing notions, etc.)
11) clean up trash around land
12) remove trash from pond (blew in during storm)
13) clean out fire pit
14) clean out barn for new hay
15) put hog cage up at trap door in rear fence
16) build berm to retain water run-off from pond
17) fix South Pasture fence
18) enlarge garden
19) plant pumpkins
20) plant wheat
Here are some pictures from around the farm:
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| The Lone Star casts it's light |
 |
| Mariama and last year's babies |
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| Papa Bunny (Edmund) |
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| New baby bunnies! |
 |
| Nibbles (Guinea Pig) |
 |
| Our new critter cage - a refurbished shelving unit |
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| PS#2 (Age 5 years) |
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