Real Moments with M.O.M.- I’m learning therefore, I must be living!

Hello Friends!

I’ve been praying for many of you. The Lord seems to bring you to mind as I drive, work on the farm, or lay my head on my pillow. I am honored to pray. It has made me mindful of the fact that it’s been awhile since I’ve shared.

Life has been full in the home and on the farm. As I told a friend tonight, “I’m always learning… it must mean I’m living!” Learning just seems to be a daily activity over here. This last weekend, my Joe and I took a drive together and discussed failure as part of success. The children had lost all but four of our meat birds due to a communication error between them. One told the other to give the chickens water. That child, not familiar with chickens, gave them water but forgot to open their cage to let them get the water. It was disappointing for everyone. Money was lost as well as our hopes of putting some chickens up in the freezer and yet, all was not lost. Everyone in the home learned something, something we can take with us as we continue to care for God’s creatures.

When we have moments like this in our home it’s vital for us to keep the family attention on how we can learn and do better instead of beating one another up. I’m happy to say that while everyone understood the gravity of the situation there was no angry words spoken, loud voices, or criticism spoken. Again, something we’ve learned… controlling our tongues in times of crisis brings control to an out of control moment.

We’ve got the back pasture fence done so that the animals can freely walk about and eat. That brings my heart so much happiness to see. We’ve been working hard on this project. While we do have two more pastures in the works… this one is done and for that we will praise God! Another lesson we’ve learned, praise Him and those around us for the work that IS done instead of grumble about what still isn’t finished.

Samuel took the position as shepherd today as he guarded the sheep to make sure that they didn’t find holes in the new fence. I watched him and thought about how much he’s grown. He’s a little boy we’ve adopted that has FAS. Doctors and specialists have told us not to expect much and yet, my Joe and I have learned another lesson: God can do what man says is impossible! I’m sure you’ve heard me say it before, Duty is ours, results are God’s. We’ll teach him and train him and leave the results with God. I must also tell you God has done GREAT things in Samuels life.  We are richly blessed with this treasure of a little boy that God has given us.

Talking to mom tonight, I was sharing with her what we’ve learned from chickens. She was telling me about the stress at her work and how people act so carelessly toward one another when under stress. I told her, “I don’t know if they would understand this analogy but here on the farm we have a saying.” When we’re under stress and tension is mounting if I witness the children behaving poorly I’ll tell them, “We are Christians NOT cannibals!”

Have you ever watched Chickens? I’ve witnessed them peck one another to death under two conditions. If there is a chicken that is different than they are or if a chicken is injured they will peck at the chicken until eventually they kill it. We’ve had to separate chickens just for this reason on more than one occasion. I’ve often thought about how humans are the same way. It seems like when people are different than us or hurting that is when you see others “peck” them to the point of death. Let us be careful as Christians that we do not behave in such a way! “We’re Christians NOT cannibals!”

I’ve learned, 23 years and ten children later that my boys love to hear me screech when they put plastic bugs around the house. I’ve learned to count those times as precious and cherish them…. They’ll end before I know it.

The list could go on and on of things I am learning, have learned, and still have to learn. I guess that proves it, I’m living!

Enjoy this slide show of some of the moments in my life today!

"Picnik Show"

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With much love,
Mrs. Joseph Wood

Real Moments- A Wet Warrior

It’s been a long week, one that I’ve learned God equips me for today’s work and then offers new mercy each day for the next day’s work.  I’ve talked to many people this week, worked on our business, ministered to families, been ministered to, encountered words of encouragement and words of discouragement and met each one with the portion of grace I had been given by our Father. As I sit here in my office, I’m surrounded by large windows overlooking my yard where my family works and plays.  It is here that I reflect on God’s bountiful treasures given to his handmaiden.  I watch my son Josiah as he tends to my garden in hope that the plants that were damaged in the frost will be nurtured back to health.  As this young man stands with his back to me I see the “First-Strike of Battle” about to take place.  I’d love to warn him that it’s coming but the stealth movement of his younger brother is precious to watch. As he approaches his towering brother armed with a “cup” of water, Josiah is focused on his duties.  There!  The strike takes place, water is poured down the back of Josiah!  Matthew, the valiant warrior, retreats in laughter.  But, a very big miscalculation of the opponents weaponry was made.  As Josiah turns calmly to see the retreat of his opponent, he simply raises the hose flowing with water and drenches his brother.  The battle is raging new weapons are fashioned by the now dripping Matthew and frustration is building as he grabs what he can to win this battle…to his disappointment, he is overcome by strength and strategy.

As I watched this unfold, there comes this thought about how I faced this week.  I was much like this little warrior at times as I tried to accomplish more than I was given.  My battle plan was to win the war on my tasks at hand.  What seemed to be a mountain of work and interactions could not be dealt with all in one day, but I ran into the day with my cup of water to attack. I was reminded, that my life is not my work.  No, my life is in Christ.  I must wait for his strength and strategy to equip me for each day and each task.  Whether I’m dealing with an issue between sisters in my house or customers at my door; God has given me what I need to encounter each circumstance with grace.  The “First-Strike of Battle” will happen each day and as I become equipped through His Word each day, I must remember just as the soldier preparing for battle; I do not know how God will empower me to stand, but I am confident He will!

Now as this dripping little soldier and his loving opponent end their “war of water”, I remember these are the moments I am refreshed by, God’s New Mercies and His faithful treasures.

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Our “Staycation”

Good Morning Friends!

As you know the Wood family took a vacation last week and didn’t go anywhere but home. I didn’t’ answer the phone and only checked prayer requests that were sent online. I had one local friend write me and ask how our “staycation” was going. I had never heard that phrase yet it summed up our experience perfectly.

As a family we love being at home. There is so much we each enjoy doing here on the farm. This time away from the typical work of the week allowed us to enjoy new work and new projects that we had on our list for this year. We also had some very special guests join us. There were so many highlights to this week however, my most favorite was a new budding relationship with a young momma in our community. As I shared in my last note, I was reminded that I need to be asking those that cross my path if they are ready for the Lord’s return. Now, I agree that we must do this with discretion and boldness led by the Holy Spirit and not out of our own strength. We must remember that no one will be saved by persuasion or a good debate. However, we are each saved by HIS saving power; it is the Holy Spirit that convinces us of Truth. At the same time we are commanded to be ready to give an answer for the Hope that lies within us! With that said, I had the wonderful opportunity to share His love with a woman at Sam's Club. As I was checking out we began talking about our Resurrection Sunday plans she shared a little bit and then I simply asked, “Are you ready for the Lord’s return?” Quickly she said yes and then just as quick she corrected herself and said… “honestly, no! No, I’m not. My life is a mess.” There were no people behind me in line… I found that a miracle alone. In a few moments I shared with her HIS love for her and then asked, “May I hug you?” She agreed and as I hugged her I told her… “You are precious in the sight of God. He loves you!” Tears ran down her cheek, she hugged me back tightly. I left telling her that I would be praying for her and wished her a wonderful week. Later that week I had to make another stop for a real quick item. As I checked out I looked around… was she here? I told the Lord I would love to see her again just to let her know I had been praying. As I walked out, sure enough! I found her working. I waited patiently as she finished up with a customer…. she didn’t see me at first…. when she did make eye contact with me instantly she smiled and tears filled her eyes again. “I was just wanting to stop real quick and give you a hug.” I told her. She stopped what she was doing, hugged me tight and said in my ear, “I haven’t stopped thinking about what you said since I saw you last.”  I smiled (now with tears in my eyes) and replied, “I haven’t stopped praying for you and I’ll continue!” We parted paths. It was a quick exchange of Love right there at the end of check out stand number 3. I pray that eternity was impacted and that one day I will celebrate HIS Faithfulness with her at his Throne.

There were other wonderful moments of our ‘staycation’. Such as a week long visit with a friend of my husbands, a new rock fireplace built by the two men and my boys, ALL brand new appliances bought debt free and installed in my kitchen (a gift to me from my husband and parents),  my parents surprised us with a last minute weekend visit, orchard trees were plotted out, storage shelves were made just not installed yet, I watched the sun rise with my Joe, had lunch with him on the front porch, worked with him on the farm mowing pastures, picked up a new Jersey bull, made dandelion jelly, built fences for new pastures, and made my Joe some of his favorite meals. We enjoyed story time together as a family, bon fires, sharing dreams and so many other simple moments that were precious. I have put a few pictures below.

Until our next chat may the Lord continue to increase and each of us decrease… all for HIS Glory!

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

BEFORE picture of the fireplace

Brothers in Christ working along side each other…. I love the friendships my husband has with other men. They are precious!

The so far finished fireplace. We still need to put the stove in but must wait a week. Josiah will also be finishing the grout work this week.

I knew our boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places… I should have known this was the end of the rainbow.

My new stove/oven and microwave

My new dishwasher

My new refrigerator.…. I even got a new garbage disposal!

Beth Joy and I working in the garden.

Where my Joe and I enjoyed our lunch “date”.

Dandelion Jelly cooling…  I wish I had a picture of the little boys going around with their red wagon picking the dandelions. It was so cute! They counted each one and would come ever so often and yell out, “I have 362 is that enough?” “Now we have 435 will that do?” As soon as we emptied their wagon they asked if they could go do it again!

Animals enjoying the pasture we’ve seeded for them.

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Blueberry Planting Days

As we plant blueberry plants you can see the unfinished fence project that we are working on simultaneously. That just seems to be the way it is on the farm.

Sammy loves to help. In fact as the sun was setting and we were calling it a day he said, “Thank you for letting me work with you mommy.” I was blessed… I want that to be my attitude to God. “Dear God, thank you for letting me work with you today.” Yes, I think that sounds like a great way to finish off the day!

Timmy and I working on planting our fragile plants. I was teaching the children gentleness in the process of planting. It was something I had to keep reminding them over again and again and again. Perhaps, tomorrow they’ll have it down.  

Timothy assured me that we didn’t need to measure in between the plants. “I’m EXACTLY 4’7”” He said, “Plant them that far apart!” The books say 5 feet but I think the reminder of him being so excited that the plants were spaced the exact distance that he is tall was a much better idea than the book had to offer. Memories… lots of memories were made today.

Samuel helping pour the dirt in all the “perfect” places. It was a delight to work along side my children. It is as if the world disappears and all that is real is the moment that I am living in… I am blessed to be their momma! Truly, God has blessed me!

Until our next chat…

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Vanishing Spoons!

Now, before I continue with this story I must say that half the family thought I should keep names out of the post to protect the innocent until they had been justly proven guilty. The other half thought I should include the names so that everyone would know who was NOT at fault. I finally decided a post without names is the way we would share it.

Have you ever had moments like this?

As I was making breakfast this morning I noticed that all my spoons had vanished…. and I do mean vanished! Not one spoon was in the drawer! I checked the house for spoons that had been forgotten, looked in all the other kitchen drawers, searched the sink, and asked any one in earshot where the spoons had gone to. No one knew! Simply put, our spoons had vanished. I don’t know why I didn’t’ push the issue. Typically when things like this happen we all stop what we’re doing and find the missing item however, today I just went on, making due with the utensils that I did have. The day got busy and in all honesty, I forgot about our vanishing spoons. It wasn’t until someone asked for the sugar bucket that we discovered the spoon hideout!!

I suppose that a young child decided they needed a spoon of sugar. Although I don’t know when that ‘need’ would have arose. Especially since we don’t use sugar unless it’s for a specific item. I do find comfort in the idea that at least I didn’t find these spoons in the honey bucket… in some strange way that brings me comfort.

At any rate, spoons have somehow found the sugar bucket that we ‘never’ get into…. and if you look closely you’ll see that they are also covered in sugar which leads me to one conclusion… someone’s been snacking on the sugar and leaving their spoon in the bucket each time they do! I’m glad we’ve found the spoons and I’m glad we’ve discovered that someone has been in the sugar. I think about the guilt that child or children carry when they know they’ve done something wrong and hide it instead of ask for accountability and prayer. I pray that God lets me discover my children’s sin. I know it sounds like a strange request yet I have learned over the years how vital it is to my parenting. I need God to show me when and where my child struggles I want to know their sin so that I can talk them about their sin, pray with them through the process of repentance and encourage them through the process of transformation. It would be all to easy as a busy mom to just say, “okay whoever did that don’t do it again!” and move on. However, this would be failing our children. We need to let them know there is nothing done in secret and while eating sugar is not a sin… stealing the sugar and concealing the matter is!

May the Lord show us our children’s sin so that we might encourage them in righteousness. May He give us the wisdom to know when and what to say and the courage to always do as He leads no matter how busy or tired we might be!

All for His Glory,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

The Wood Family's Going to Virginia!

Greetings Friends!
This is just a short post so I could share some exciting news with you. Lord willing, the Wood family will be going to Virgina to celebrate the "best revolutionary war conference in America". If you would like to attend, I just heard this evening that I can share a special friend discount code so that you can enjoy a 35% savings off the normal price! Please email me at: mrsjosephwood (at) gmail (dot) com and I will get you the code you need.

I invite you to learn more about this event by visiting, http://www.patriotsball.com/

The Wood family would love to have you there if the Lord would open doors for such an occasion!

With much love,
Mrs. Joseph Wood

Real Moments- Perfectly Content

I often hear people ask me questions that allude to the fact that I have a “perfect” life. People assume that because of His grace that they see evident in my life I must have always made the best of decisions. They judge what I’ll think of their food choices, parenting choices and home; they typically judge wrong. I can not count the people that tell me “their surprised.” Surprised to learn I’m not critical of others, surprised to learn that I’ve made HUGE mistakes, surprised to learn that I don’t have time nor the energy to judge others, surprised to learn that my toilets actually get dirty or that I have trash to take out to the curb! You may think I’m being dramatic but in all honesty I have been told these exact statements more than just a time or two. Which leads me to this subject…. contentment! Now, you may be asking what in the world contentment has to do with any of the above so let me share. (maybe you’ve already connected the dots. It took me much prayer and conversation with God to ever figure this one out.)

The world defines contentment as “happiness with one’s state.” This is not an accurate description of such a vital character as contentment! It gives us this idea that we have to be happy where we are so we look for other places to be where we think we might be happy. The Word tell us that Godliness with contentment is great gain. That word contentment used in this verse is actually the word “autarkeia” meaning competence and sufficiency. Contentment is an acceptance of His Sufficiency; it is a complete trust in His competence! Contentment is the character produced when we accept His unique purpose and plan for our lives as perfect! We don’t covet what He’s doing in others lives; we embrace what He’s doing in ours. We don’t make excuses to grow where He’s leading us because we willingly go with the knowledge that “we’ve been bought with a price.”

My life may appear “perfect” because I am perfectly content! I have truly learned  like Paul how to be content no matter where He takes me. Remember dear friends, there was a time that I lived in a tent high in the Sierra’s. Don’t forget, I use to believe the best thing about camping was going home! At that time, my husband wanted to live his dream of being off the grid so he sold our beautiful home and gave me an outhouse, showers under the oak tree, cooking over fire and washing my clothes in a creek. The Lord has taught me so much through the years. He’s taught me to appreciate the small moments, to ignore the things that aren’t important and not neglect the things that are! He’s taught me to not be lazy and also taught me not to be so consumed with the work of the day that I didn’t first have time to fellowship with Him. He’s taught me to live each moment as if it was my last, because I never know when it will be!   I like what Matthew Henry says, “Where there is great godliness we will also find great contentment.” As I grew closer to the Lord my contentment grew, without me even knowing it. Oh, I remember the days of surrendering. I remember the tears of letting go of all my dreams.  I remember how He gently lead me, chastised me and forgave me.  I an convinced that as we grow in our personal relationship with God our contentment increases. No longer do we live vicariously through others, no longer do we see others as having the “perfect” life. No longer do we make excuses why we can’t (don’t) bear fruit… instead we find ourselves living the “perfect” life. The life that lives freely, victoriously, PERFECTLY right where He has us!

So tell me, Who else choses to live the PERFECT life?

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Real Moments with M.O.M- Snowy Day Schedule

Hello Friends!

Snow has finally arrived in KS, much to my children’s delight! My children waited all day on Sunday for the snow to arrive and were quite disappointed when it didn’t appear. It was truly a delight to wake them Monday morning saying, “Surprise! Look what God made you while you slept!” The cheers, running and laughing filled the home. I decided to call a “Snowy Day Schedule” and just allow them to play. I didn’t feel bad about it. It’s fun to take these liberties in our homeschool (Just in case anyone is curious the public schools were shut down as well. In fact, they were shut down two days). Hours were spent outside playing with only a few brief cocoa breaks and of course their meals. Below are some pictures of the children playing in the snow!

The kitten is climbing up Josiah trying to stay warm. Those kittens will do that to the children each time they visit the barn.

Ezekiel with his sled from Grandma and Grandpa! They have been waiting for this day to arrive!

Snow fight!!

Everyone run!! Snowball fight!

 

Have a wonderful day friends!! I hope  you’ve enjoyed this real life moment. These are precious days!!!

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Boyhood

Boyhood, when experienced to the fullest, is the time in a child’s life that almost stands still and yet, somehow speeds by. It is the most critical of times, for in boyhood, men emerge! Here in the Wood family we LOVE the differences of our boys and girls. My boys love adventure! They love the dirt, the bruises, the challenge, the sweat; they simply love everything about being boys. Everyone who knows the Wood boys knows them as hard workers. They work hard and they play hard too!! This last Christmas they were given several treasures to aid them in their quests. These swords are just one of the favorites!

My parents were here when they took the swords out for their first try. We all sat at the bay window watching from the warmth of the house. Many giggles were shared as we looked on and watched with anticipation of “who” would  arse as the winner. Those boys had such a fun time. They encouraged each other in their stance, shared their tactical “wisdom” with one another, and then laughed as the battle between brothers, friends, finally came to an end!  There is a healthy dose of competition in this house, especially between the boys, but nothing that ever separates the love they have for each other. They truly are best friends!!

Here is a clip of a few of the boys having a sword adventure today! Just for the record, the boys have had no “official” training. This is a new area of interest to them and something they will begin to study and learn! Right now, it’s all play! Oh, and one more note, you’ll hear a child giving me a phone number and I’m quickly hushing them so that no one’s number ended up on the internet! Enjoy this weeks real moment!

I am blessed to be the momma to these mighty men of valor!

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Thanksgiving Preparations at my home

This morning I listen to the wind whistle as I sit by my window, sipping a cup of organic coffee, writing my rambling thoughts down.  Truly our boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places. The trees are almost bare, their leaves cover the wooded playground behind the house. The air is crisp, the sky overcast, and the swing set sits still waiting for cheerful children to come visit with their next adventure. All of this creates such a cozy, snuggly feeling in the home. I find myself sleeping in later than normal holding children that aren’t quite ready for morning to arrive. I have grown wise enough over the years to just sit and take in these moments.. they are the moments that I pray I never forget.  I had quiet time to pray this morning, thanking God for keeping my Joe, Beth-Joy and Jed safe as they travel to CA to celebrate Thanksgiving with my parents. The Lord made it clear that we were not to go as an entire family, as originally planned. However, in His great mercy, He did make way for Joe and a few of the children to go. Momma will be having surgery on Dec. 3 so we felt it was vital that Beth Joy stay and help as Grandma and Grandpa needed. Joe has his Azure delivery to make and some backhauls out of CA so that all worked out well too. Jed has gotten his CDL and will now be working along side us in the family business. God has been busy in our home and family, this I am confident of!

As we get ready for Thanksgiving tomorrow, the children have reminded me that this will be our first year without Daddy home. I was trying to avoid that subject and hoped they wouldn’t notice… I guess that wasn’t very successful! :-) We long for the day that my parents will be here in KS with us. When joining them for Thanksgiving will only be a walk across the property! I don’t regret or feel sad about Joe not being here… we are both confident they are to be in CA. Typically, we have our Thanksgiving meal made with recipes from friends from all over the country that we love. This year however, we’ll be having the same Thanksgiving meal that momma is making there in CA. As I went over my list yesterday (Yes..I’m a procrastinator at times!) I realized that everything we needed was grown, raised, or gathered here on the farm. What a loooonnnnggg way we’ve come since our first attempts at gardening almost 20 years ago!!

Here’s our family menu:

Turkey (Timothy raised these this year and did a WONDERFUL job!)

Potatoes (Elisha harvested our Thanksgiving potatoes out of the garden bed just this morning. I’ve posted pictures below. Of course we gathered buckets and buckets of potatoes earlier this year.)

Yams (Elisha harvested our Thanksgiving Yams this morning too)

Corn (Harvested by children last September. We have fun memories of harvesting with friends! They were put away by Beth Joy and myself)

Green Beans (Harvested by Sarah- Grace, Samuel and Matthew earlier this summer )

The children don’t like stuffing so we won’t have any of that this year and we will be making a “pull apart bread” recipe that Grandma Connie makes that could never be grown on the farm. LOL!

Pumpkin pie (Josiah grew the pumpkins and Ezekiel did the preparation to preserve them. He’s also the one making our pumpkin pie this year)

Apple pie, (picked from our tree, prepared by Beth-Joy and will be made by Josiah)

As I ponder our menu I clearly see His Provision, His faithfulness, His kindness, the beauty of family, the joy’s of friendships, healthy bodies, and the blessings of work! I can only be Thankful!

I pray that each of you, where ever you, take time to ponder all that you have to be thankful for. I pray that your hearts are forever fixed on His wonderful works and everything else takes it’s rightful place.

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Elisha digging for potatoes and yams this cold autumn morning

These Yukon Gold potatoes will make perfect mashed potatoes for my family!

While Yams aren’t my children (or my favorite) they are my Joe’s and momma makes him a wonderful candy yam recipe so we’ll do it here at home too in honor of Grandma and my dear Joe. We’ve all agreed we’ll take at least a bite. :-)

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Processing the Thanksgiving Turkey and other farm moments.

Hello Friends!

Before I get started I want to share with you this free Thanksgiving resource for your family. Please visit: Money Saving Mom’s free download link at:

 

For those of you that follow us on Facebook you already know that last week was a tough week for the Wood family. One of our family milk cows fell down and sustained injuries that caused her death. The vet believes when she fell she hit something that went through her right eye and caused brain damage. It was a tough day and a half as we all prayerfully and carefully cared for her. On Friday afternoon the vet informed us that she wasn’t sure the cow would make it and asked if we were interested in putting her down to get the meat from her. After a family meeting we decided we couldn’t make such a call at that time (she would occasionally show signs that appeared as if she was trying to recover) We decided we would give her till Saturday morning and see how she appeared then. My Joe, children and myself all prayed over her and continually asked God for wisdom. Administering minerals, fluids and anti inflammatory medication kept us busy for the 36 hours after her injury. I went to bed praying that God would be merciful to us and the cow. I didn’t want her to suffer and I didn’t want to make the call to end her life and always wonder if it was the right “call”. Even though tears were shed at her death we were thankful to the Lord that He chose to make the “call” for us. We will miss her but we will move on. We don’t let things like this keep us from living in the moment that God has for us and yet we don’t dismiss it as irrelevant either. Here in the Wood household we take every creature we care for from our bees, to the cows, to the chickens and the kittens seriously! We know that God is their creator and He has asked us to be their caretaker. We feel a great responsibility to know them, spend time with them and learn all we can so that we are diligent in our work. The Scriptures tell us that it is the wicked that are cruel to their animals but the righteous ‘regard’ the life of their animals. In fact according to the Noah Webster's 1828 dictionary that word, ‘regard’ means to: “To esteem; to hold in respect and affection.” (Pro 12:10  Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast, but the mercy of the wicked is cruel.) That the righteous consider every little bit they have as precious (Proverbs 12:27). He also tells us to care for animals even when they aren’t our own. (Duet. 22: 1-4). I guess that is why we feel the loss, the frustration and doing the double check on ourselves to make sure that we did all we could to glorify God in our care for His creatures as we took dominion over them!

On another note, we processed the Turkey’s that Timothy raised for our holiday meals. Timothy has tenderly cared for these birds. Our friends even mentioned how docile they were,  how they allowed us to hold them when we wanted and just stood around us as we were busy doing this or that. The activity was peaceful as two families came together to share in the work. Our hearts are ever grateful for the food that God provided as well as for our friendships! This precious family came out to help us after a long day of farm projects of their own. They allowed us to borrow their homemade scalder and feather plucker-  I have since told my Joe I want one of these for Christmas! After the work was done we all enjoyed a meal together (a batch of my home made chili). The boys played and wrestled while the girls giggled and played the piano and games. The grown up discussion at the kitchen table was a treat and something my Joe mentioned enjoying several times since. We are thankful for all the sweet families that God has brought into our lives.. for there are many! I have posted some pictures of the Turkey’s being processed. Note, little boys playing on hay stacks, girls bring water and the daddy’s discussion. Enjoy and Happy Thanksgiving to each of you!

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Elisha holding the turkey as the boys wait for their work.

Joe talking with the other daddy about farm “stuff”

All the girls bringing the water

Mommas trying to let boys be boys but within safe boundaries ! :-) He just wanted to be like the “big” boys!

The plucker that was such a blessing to use!! I would be tickled pink to get one of these for Christmas!

A picture of the inside of the plucker

Timothy examining his hard “work”. God is so kind to give us such blessings!

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Ramblings from my heart

Hello Friends!
Have you ever felt like your heart was so full of this and that, that you couldn’t even put it down on paper clearly much less speak it? It’s not that it’s bad.. just full… very full! Well, that’s me! Let me start with what is most pressing and go from there.

My sweet momma is having surgery for renal cancer today. If the Lord should bring her to mind would you pray for her, daddy and our family as a whole? I would appreciate knowing that the Body of Christ would pray for us. In fact, last week as I prayed for God to pour out His love to them I received and email from one of our readers offering to help in any way. She will be taking momma and daddy a meal today. I can’t tell you how much that blessed me!! I had planned to be in CA with all the children so we could care for momma and celebrate the Thanksgiving season. However, the Lord made it clear that we were not to go at this time. Oh, that was a hard decision to make! When we have the recourses and desire to do something and yet God says, “No, not now.”  I know Him as the only one worthy of my trust. I know that He loves my momma tenderly and I know that He will care for her passionately!

Someone asked me if I had changed my signature since you are seeing a great many posts titled, A Moment in Proverbs, and signed by: Abiding Still. That is my sweet momma sharing. Any posts by me will continue to say, Mrs. Joseph Wood. In fact, momma called me last night and got onto me for not posting more on the site. She loves to read what I write. I always say her and daddy are my “biggest fans” :-) I do have several emails that I’ve answered and some heart sharing I want to post. I have just been busy trying to help my Joe get his business going, caring for the kids, moving farm animals around, preparing for winter and well… trying to find time to breath  as well! I’ll get it all worked out and our scheduled revised so that I can orderly and effectively do all that God has blessed me with at this Season in my life. I love sharing with each of you women and I love the sharing you do with me too!

I guess that brings us to a good point. Seasons of life change and when they do we need to be flexible to learn, grow and revise the schedule so that we can bear the fruit due in the season we’re living. I am learning how to do this. In fact, it seems to be the theme for me this year. I praise Him that no matter what the Season, He is the one that makes all things to grow, bloom, develop and come to maturation!
With much love,
Mrs. Joseph Wood

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Fun Photos

This last Sunday we were asked to take family photos for the Church Directory. We weren’t all together at the Church so Bekah took the family photo for us here on the farm. It was a fun time of finding the right spot. We thought about putting one of the Jersey milkers in the photo but Bekah wouldn’t have it. The dogs were in a few of our ‘practice’ photos but they always had their tail in someone’s face or were turned around backwards. So after some time, Bekah finally got a picture that will make it’s way into the directory. It’s not the perfect photo. A few of the children are caught without their smiles on, Josiah is blinking and we aren’t perfectly positioned. However, after some conversation of root beer floats for everyone when were done smiles started flying and we took our “wacky” photo to just be for the family keepsake. In my opinion that is the photo that probably represents us best yet. You’ll also notice a few ‘extras’ in the picture. The young lady next to my Jed is, Miranda, a sweet girl that has recently started courting my oldest boy. Her brother, Gideon, is at the end of the photo in our “wacky” version. Joe and I love having neat kids coming in our home. It feels good as our children invite friends and we consider that our family will be growing.

I’ve posted both photos here for you, our friends, to see. This way when I speak of certain children you’ll be able to put a face to the name!

Enjoy! Oh! and if you post a family photo on your blog let me know! I would love to “see” you!

With much love,
Mrs. Joseph Wood

Church Directory Photo:

Just Being Us Photo:

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Enjoying my ‘babies’

As mothers we need to guard our time with our children so that we can truly enjoy them and not just let these days slip by. We need to have that quiet time to sit and hold them, the freedom for late mornings, eating waffles with strawberries and cream in our pj’s, and of course we need the wisdom to chose what is excellent for the moment we are living in.

A few weeks back I was busy at my desk working for my Joe and finishing up some writing projects, when one of my children came with their math book in hand and said, “Mom, I don’t mean to distract you but could you help me with this?” It was the Lord that filled my mouth and gave me the wisdom to reply, “You’re not the distraction…life is the distraction!” The smile that graced that child’s face knowing that I would chose them as the priority of the moment was profound. I thanked the Lord for giving me the ‘perfect’ words to minister to my child. I have thought about that moment often since then. I have remembered the look on their face and been encouraged to press on with choosing that which is excellent for each moment I am living in.

Life is busy as my dear Joe’s wife. His business  is growing and getting it off to a good start both financially and legally is all new to me. I find my days are making calls, getting quotes, finding loads for him to haul and looking over the maps. This of course is on top of our busy farm life, homeschool days and simple family time. It also comes at a time when my dear mother battles cancer! Momma was told this last week that her renal cancer is active, growing, and needs to be addressed immediately. We had just started to take a breather from the breast cancer and had thought the other cancers decided to just move away. I guess not. Momma is having surgery soon, a few surgeries. I would truly be blessed to know others were praying for our family, especially momma, through all of this. I have often told the Lord that I feel much like dry clay that is being stretched. I have cried out for some Living Water to make me more pliable. I am thankful that I can trust Him as He molds me no matter what it might feel like!! Don’t get me wrong it hasn’t been bad. It’s been a challenge, stretching but also very good! Good in the fact that I am once again given the opportunity to serve my family, good in the fact that I get to grow, and good in the fact that I get to practice choosing that which is excellent!

Today, I’ll share some photos of  precious moments with the children this last week! Enjoy dear friends! May we each strive to live the moments that will be important for eternity and not simply busy ourselves with empty activity!

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Samuel and Matthew have enjoyed a science class each Friday. Big sissy, Bekah, takes them to class and treats them to hot coco or whatever else afterwards. They enjoy this time with her and I am thankful as I see the heart of my big kids investing in their siblings. This last week, they were learning about wind and let some balloons go with the hopes that someone might find them and call to tell them where it had traveled too. When the instructor asked, “Does anyone know what makes the balloon fly?” Matthew replied, “It’s the hand of God.” Bekah immediately texted me to share just how precious it was. I love the children’s ability to see God in every detail of our lives. May we always humble ourselves, quiet ourselves, and take a look around us to see ‘the hand of God’.

Josiah would love to fly planes one day for missionary work. The Lord blessed him with an Autumn sight seeing trip from the sky. They flew over the north-east part of Kansas and from what they told me, it was beautiful!!

Josiah getting back from his flight!

 

Beth-Joy and Timothy accompanied Josiah and had a wonderful time!

The Pilot giving the children their certificates and log books.

Everyone together for a photo before we left. The other children and I had waited near the hangers. We enjoyed watching several private planes take off that day. I think some of the other children may just want to go for a flight soon! 

Real Moments with M.O.M- Family update with photos

Hello Friends!
Life has been full of wonderful moments, treasured changes, and much growth! The children are all doing well and growing so big! I weighed the boys and measured them on their birthdays; I think they will all pass me up! This might be the last year I can convince them to let me have this pleasure as they are beginning to think it’s for “little kids.” Ezekiel was able to take his first steps without the walker on his birthday, Josiah flew a plane on his birthday ( a long desired dream of his) and Jed and I enjoyed a quiet lunch together for his birthday. Timothy is still counting the day’s until his 11’th birthday this month is sure full of celebrations here at our house!

Joe’s work is going well. He absolutely loves the families he delivers too. Precious, precious, people!! It’s nice knowing that my husband and the children he has with him on the route are being loved on by the Body. Joe likes to bring one or two children with him each time he makes a run. These moments have been a highlight to our family activity! We praise God for opening doors for this opportunity! We feel richly blessed! I am learning a great deal about the office work that my Joe needs me to do and juggling that in-between being a homeschool momma to still 8 children, the overseer of the home while my Joe is away, caring for the farm and of course caring for all ten of the children’s needs as well as my Joe’s. It’s a learning experience in many areas for me. I trust that the Lord will be made strong in my weakness.

We’ve been getting to know people in our Church more and that has been fun. I love to pray for all those that the Lord allows our path to cross with.  We went on a nature walk together this last weekend and again learned a little more history on the area we live. I can’t believe we’ve been in KS for over two years now. Time has went by so fast. To this date every member of the Wood family is confident this is where the Lord wanted us. It is good to be where He wants us and not just out there on our own isn’t it dear Sisters?

Sammy and Matthew are still two peas in a pod! Oh, how those boys are a package of adventure! Always inventing, exploring and creating! I just love to watch them grow. Matthew most commonly has a football in his hand and talks about football all the time. Samuel has learned to milk the goats and is doing a WONDERFUL job at it! He’s proud of his job… and he should be!!

Bekah, Beth and Sarah are my jewels. Those girls are such a blessing and daily help me minister to the family! Sarah is learning so much and just reached her goal of cleaning the kitchen up in less than 15 minutes! Way to go Sarah-Grace!! Beth-Joy has enjoyed the online writing class offered by Vision Forum. She giggles as she listens to the lessons and always comes away learning something new!

Elisha had a wonderful visit with my parents in Wash. D.C. They went on a ten day tour that included PA and VA along with Wash D.C. He did many of his drawings and was able to share his love for the Lord with all those that stopped to talk with him about his art. It was a blessed time for everyone!

The farm is getting ready for the winter days that are approaching. Joy, the Jersey cow,  had a heifer. We feel blessed with all the Lord has given us!! We will soon have a tractor to help do some work and hope to reach our goal and finish that barn. I am finishing up some cleaning and going through clothes to make sure the children have all they need for winter. Life is busy… and yes, it is blessed! Blessed because of who HE is, not who I am. Blessed because HE never changes, even when life does. When I L. I. V. E. (live in view of eternity) life is truly blessed!!

I have some pictures to share with you all. I will have to get Bekah to take  some good ones of everyone but for now this will give you a glimpse of real moments in my home….

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Elisha and Josiah getting ready to fly!

Jed is now 22 years old…. where has the time gone?

Sammy and Matthew…. always have smiles!

My sweet Sarah-Grace!!

Bekah with one of her most adorable fun faces!!

Beth-Joy and me on the front porch