Blog Sabbatical-haha

Talk about a blog sabbatical....sorry! Well, Christmas was great. It's always a challenge to make it special with this many children. The kids are great. They really do appreciate whatever we do for them. They truly love to give, also, and it makes them so happy to give each other gifts. We had our Homecoming Christmas program at church on the Saturday before Christmas. It was very nice and well attended. And we had a Christmas Eve Candlelight service. It was very beautiful. It was icy and snowy but we had several visitors to come out. We met a nice family who came back to church again this Sunday. We had some instrument challenges that night, which was very weird. The digital piano pedal quit working which made for a very funny sound. Abbey was going to play a prelude (her first piano solo) but couldn't because of it. Then, during my solo-O Holy Night-one of Chris's guitar strings hit the music stand and went way out of tune. At first, he thought it broke. He tried to tune it but eventually gave up and I finished it accapella. But, somehow, we muddled through. We came home, ate pizza and acted out our traditional family Christmas Eve Nativity story. Chris is alwasys Joseph. This year Liberty was Mary. Judah was a donkey. Adam and Abbey were shepherds. Sam and Jesse were wisemen. Gracie was an angel and, as always, I was the narrator. Honestly, this year I just wanted to skip the nativity story. I know that's terrible. Life is so busy and you really have work to keep your focus on the priorities. I really want the littles to have meaningful memories, too. It was easier when I was younger and more motivated-youthful zeal, haha. But, I don't regret it. To see their little faces as the story becomes real to them... I never want to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. It is so easy to let everything crowd Him out, but so wrong.
So here we are on the back side of Christmas. Lots of cleaning, taking down decorations and packing them away for another year, vacuuming up pine needles and moving the furniture back into place. Happy New Year everyone!
Linda

Abbey's Cell Phone and Barb

Sorry Guys! I really didn't realize it had been over a week since my last post. Thanks for being faithful to check in, though. Well, Thanksgiving was a wonderful Holiday. We had a few flakes of snowfall to add to the festive atmosphere. We had a great time, just us, laughing and talkng around the table. We are such an animated family, things can get pretty loud at times, though-everybody vieing for their turn to talk. Recently we sat down to eat dinner and we bowed our heads in prayer. Immediately after the prayer Samuel Isaac blurts out "Hold it!" and holds his hands up in a motion to keep everyone from beginning the onslaught of verbage. He had something to say and he knew that if he didn't stop it before it started, he would never get a word in edgewise-haha.
I am not feeling well, so I have been dragging this week. I have run a fever for a few days and my fav spot is on the floor in front of the woodstove-so warm and cozy. Lying there like a cat or something-I learned it from Abbey. Speaking of Abbey, she is currently unreachable on her cell phone. It has taken a beating over this past year traveling around with a teenager and it finally decided it had had enough. Because of where we are in the contract, we have to purchase one at full price which ain't happenin' right now. Poor thing-she can't receive any texts, it's like her right arm has been cut off-lol. But, she is handling it very well. So, if anybody out there has a spare cell phone they want to sell at a reasonable price, let me know. It has to be able to take a SIM card. A friend of ours graciously gave us theirs to use but it was Verizon and didn't take a SIM card, so we gave it back-bummer! Thanks anyway, Tom and Jen (and also Carrie).
I went to Bible study yesterday at Miss Kitty's. I just joined this group of ladies. It is kind of a neat story. I'll share it with you. Back in October, I think, I had a yard sale. A lady came and was thrilled to find several things she was on her way to Walmart to buy for her grandkids. Baby gates, clothes, etc. Gracie was helping me run the sale and was attending to the lady. I heard her voice and she sounded SO much like Miss Kitty-a good friend and sweet lady who goes to church with us. I thought about saying to her-, "You sound so much like my friend Kitty" but I decided not to because I thought 'she doesn't know Kitty and I'd just be boring her'. Well a few minutes later she says to me "You're the pastor's wife aren't you?" I looked terrible, in fact I still had pj pants on, but I confessed that I was indeed the person she thought I was. I'm sure I looked a lot different than what she'd seen in the newspaper so I apologized for my appearance. So, she says, "Yeah, one of my friends goes to your church, Kitty Z****" In my mind I was like 'Uh UHHH!' But, I told her I was just listening to her and thinking how much she sounded like Miss Kitty but I didn't say it. So, we kept conversing. She was telling me that she thought God had led her to my yardsale because I had so many things that she was on her way to buy and she had seen my sign and decided to turn in. As she was leaving and we were loading her stuff into her trunk, she told me of a Bible study that she was in, in fact, I found out later, she was the leader of. She told me that a week from Tuesday they were going to start a new study on encouragement and that she would really like me to be a part of it. I was interested, even though it is in Hague which is a ways for me to drive. Anyway, that was on a Saturday, I think. One week and a day later, during church, another friend Miss Dawn (who also attends the group) spoke up and asked for prayer for the family of Barb R**** who had died in a car accident that week. I was up at the piano, as usual. I spoke into my mic. "Dawn, is that the Barb that has a Bible study in Hague?" "Yes, it is." I was stunned. She was traveling in the car with her grandchildren (the ones she bought my stuff for) securely strapped in their carseats. She had a massive heart attack which resulted in a head on collision with an oncoming car. She died instantly but the children, whom she loved dearly, were unharmed. For some reason, this hit me extremely hard. My chest was heavy. During prayer/praise I felt the need to speak of my experience with Barb just days before she died. She had felt, as I do now, that our meeting was a divine appt. Apparently, Barb had already informed the ladies of the Bible study that she had invited me to join. They had even ordered me a book, although I had not yet confirmed I would be there. For some reason, I felt that God wanted me to attend. He saw to it that I had met this lady, whom I have since learned was loved and respected by many for her walk with God, just days before she met Him. Her simple last request to me was that I be a part of this Bible study. And that, I am doing. I am honoring the last wish (to me, at least) of a lady I barely knew and had met only once, briefly, but long enough to know God was in it. I don't know what God has in store for me, I am just walking in faith. I hope she knows that I am there.

Gathering Round the Looooong Family Table

Well, the children and I just finished making up a squasherole, broccoli rice and cheese, green bean casserole, different flavored jellos, cheesecake, chocolate pudding pie, 2 huge pans of dressing and various other things (Buddy washed dishes while we cooked). My eggs are waiting in the pot, all boiled and ready to be transformed into Angel Eggs (the Agees don't eat deviled eggs). I'll bake the casseroles tomorrow but they're on deck in the fridge. Adam is about to make the crust for 2 cherry pies, 1 apple, 1 peach, 1 pumpkin and 2 pecans. I am going to make some orange balls tonight and get the turkey ready. Tomorrow will be mostly cooking, because the preparing will already be done. I'll have both ovens going, I'm sure. And, of course, we'll get to adorn the table (my favorite part of a dinner), with Old Country Roses-the most beautiful china in the history of mankind. This year I even have the flatware to match because Chris got it for me for Christmas last year. I abso-freakin-lutely love setting the table! I once read a book by Edith Shaeffer (sp? Francis's wife) called The Hidden Art of Homemaking and it revolutionized my thinking in this area. Since then I have found such joy and purpose in the presentation of things. I bought 4 bottles of sparkling cider in the fancy bottles. They have been chilling for about a week in the 2nd fridge. I thought the kids would enjoy having that poured into their goblets tomorrow. So, I'll put the turkey on in the morning around 5 am-my least favorite part-haha. Oh and Chris and I saw a demonstration on TV about the proper way to carve a turkey. So, I'm excited about it actually looking like the pictures you see of other turkeys (our is always mangled up-haha). Chris better do it right-jkjk. Right now the kids are sitting on the old computer looking at old pics and howling with laughter-so I can't concentrate but it's a good thing. Sam said Chris is upstairs getting his back walked on which probably means I won't see him until tomorrow (it always puts him to sleep). But y'all...Happy Thanksgiving. It is so good to know that around so many tables sit families I love so dearly who will truly be thanking Almighty God from whom all blessings flow. Tomorrow, when we raise our glasses for a toast, we will remember all our beloved friends and family and lift a prayer for a wonderful Thanksgiving for you all.
Lovingly and with Thanksgiving to the Living God,
The Agees

Born From Above

Have you ever wondered about your salvation experience(s)? I mean, trying to make sense of how one can believe as a child but feel as though you weren't 'saved' or 'born again' until that second time when you were older. Well, I've thought a lot about it. I've heard a lot about it. But, a year or so ago, it was settled in my mind. I felt as though the Lord Himself had taught my heart. You know those times when you have that light bulb experience and you try to share it with others but it doesn't affect them the same way? Years ago, I began taking my own informal survey of the age when one is saved. Time after time I would hear someone say something like "Well I was saved when I was a child, but I dedicated my life to Christ when I was in college." I noticed that the first experience usually happened somewhere between the ages of 9-12 and the second between 17-25. For my own life, I don't actually remember a time when I didn't believe in Jesus, but at 9 years of age at the Joliet General Baptist under Reverend Maricle (yes, that was his name and to a child miracle and maricle sound the same-we were in church, he was the preacher, it made sense to my childbrain) I had my first experience. I went down front and was 'saved'. I was baptised and continued to act, basically, the same, I think, but I always knew I was His and when I wasn't doing right, I felt guilty. So, while I wasn't necessarily obedient, I did feel a responsibility to God. Funny enough, around 14 or 15 yrs I became aware of the hypocrisy in my life and my thoughts were something like "I am a Christian but if I died right now, I wouldn't go to heaven." That's because I didn't understand God's Grace and the impossibility of being a Christian and not going to heaven. So, anyway, at 17, at a Methodist Church in Tuscaloosa, AL I had my second experience, where I 'rededicated' my life to Christ. From this point on, my life did change. My desires did change. My actions even changed. Whatever it was, it was real and lasting-in fact everlasting. Fast-forward to my thoughts today. What actually happened to me on those two occasions. Here's what I believe. Warning: Some of you theologians out there may be tempted to teach me about context and the order of salvation and etc. etc.
My first experience was when I came to Jesus and He said "let the little child come to me and do not hinder her."
My second experience was not when 'I made Jesus my Lord', it was when Jesus said "Follow Me." And what else could I do? I am one of His sheep, I heard His voice and I followed.

Abraham Lincoln and Barack Obama

I have been reading a biography about, arguably, the most interesting president of our nation's history-Abraham Lincoln. The book is called Abraham Lincoln: The Prairie Years the War Years. Today, I arrived at the point in the book that documents his shooting at Ford's Theatre and subsequent death across the street at the home of Mr. Peterson. As I read the account, I couldn't help but cry. In fact, I could've cried like I was right in that room as he drew his last breath, if I hadn't made a concerted effort at controlling myself. I am the type of person that when I read a book or watch a movie, I feel extraordinarily connected to the story, even fiction (this is why I CAN'T watch horror movies, although, not why I won't) (I just dropped a chicken nugget on my brand new computer keyboard-don't tell Chris). Anyway, back to President Lincoln. Back in 1998, we visited Washington D.C. and the various monuments. I was, indeed, awed as I stood in front of the statue of Mr. Lincoln (because of the sheer size and the powerful words on the wall), but I didn't know much of him. Now, I feel as though I know him. I hope he is in heaven, I really want to meet him. I hate to admit it, but all through the recent campaign, a nagging voice kept suggesting similarities between Mr. Lincoln and Mr. Obama-beginning with their homestate of Illinois (where, incidentally, I grew up). Many historical elements are interestingly connected, to say the least. Presidency's have a way of transforming an individual. The president is the personification of America for the duration of his tenure as president. He is asked of, accused of, praised for, blamed for, smiled at, scowled at, prayed for and cursed. There is no way a person can remain untouched in a position such as this. The only power he can, logically, turn to is one higher than himself-Almighty God. My hope is that when he finds himself inadequate for the task, as all men are, he will call out to God and God will make his path straight. It can happen.
Linda

Just Stuff...

Good morning blog friends!
Yesterday was a half day of school for the Agees who attend CVCS and they are off today also. They all brought friends home last night so we had a pretty big crowd! All the girls (and I) rode horses. The guys played basketball, and worked on the fence. After that, we all sat around the family table and ate a hot meal of chili and rice with homemade biscuits. It was fun. After the big cleanup, the girls played on their myspaces and facebooks and the guys played some video games. Oh, and Abbey finished an essay titled "Hands" that she had to e-mail to her English teacher. I proofed it for her. It was really good. She is quite the writer! A few of the kids went home last night but a few stayed overnight. Sam just came in and discovered that he is NOT off school today (he is homeschooled). He just automatically thought he would be off since the big kids are. So, right now, the younger kids are in the kitchen making their breakfasts. Of course, the teenagers are sleeping! A favorite activity (non-activity) of that age, it seems. Chris is grading papers and getting ready for 9 weeks report cards. Soon, I will go to parent/teacher conference-which is kinda weird for me, having homeschooled the kids all their lives. I have found that to be one of the things I don't deal with well, not having the input I have always had. There is still plenty of homework to help them with. Believe me, they pile it on. But, the boys have a very good teacher. Her name is Anne Sullivan and she has been teaching for 30+ years. The boys just love her. A few weeks ago they (all by themselves) made her a homemade apple pie. She is that kind of rare teacher that everyone would wish for their children. Abbey kind of had a meltdown night before last. She was finishing a physics assignment here at home and she felt her teacher (Daddy) wasn't helping her enough. She cried and wailed about how she didn't know what she was doing (all along she and Chris have been telling me that she was doing well in Physics so I didn't know where to put this). I asked Chris why all of the sudden she was in a panic like this. He said "My guess, PMS." So, I told her to take a break, go check her myspace or facebook, get something to drink and come back. She did and when she came back, I never heard another whimper out of her. She had literally worked herself into a frenzy over it! Sometimes you just gotta change directions to get where you wanna go. Frustration is not a road that usually leads to success.
Well, I'm working on the 3rd annual Harmony Hill Christmas. I've ordered a few bell songs and I'm choreographing my and Abbey's tap #. It's a lot of hard work but it's worth it to see people enjoying themselves around the Holidays. It's funny how Christmas music never gets old. Well, I better go homeschool and make sure nobody makes any huge messes. I made it to the bottom of the laundry barrel last night...yeah!!! I even washed all the bathroom rugs that have been waiting in the basket for so long. I can only wash those when all the clothes are done and that doesn't happen very often! Well, I'm sure that once everybody took off all their clothes last night and put on their PJs they added about 3 more loads. Because, in truth, around here, laundry never gets done for long!

Sad.......

Well, I know that many of you are in shock about last nights results. While we can be happy that it is proven now that America is a different country (with regard to race) than she was in centuries past (and finally, Jesse and Al can shutup for good and get real jobs), we are still sad about the outcome. You (and I ) face a good bit of persecution for our beliefs with regard to this election. No matter what your real reason for not wanting Barack Obama, his supporters think you oppose him for only one reason-because he is black. I, personally, am proud that America has reached a point where we aren't collectively so predudice that only a white male can be president. But! In my opinion, Barack Obama is a con man who believes in killing babies, has close associations with anti-american people and he is not going to bring blessing upon our country. Be prepared people. Be vigilant. Watch and wait.
Linda

Scout-dini the Escape Artist!

Yesterday I corralled Scout 3 times. 2 times he was in the yard grazing but the 3rd time, he went through the woods and someone down on Aubrey Sanders Road called and said 'your horse is about to poop in the road over here'. So, still in my PJ's (which is nothing abnormal even WELL into the day), I load the littles up in the truck, and drive down the road, put Scout on a lead and lead him out the window of the truck while I drive. Thankfully, at the end of that road (out on the main road) is the Crown Point Discount Grocery. Some friends of ours from Vermont own it and it's only about 1/4 mile from our house. So, I park, walk up to the grocery store door, leading Scout. I open the door and there's Marion checking someone out. She and the customer just kinda look at me and laugh. I tell her the story and how I need to walk him home without driving the truck because he may freak with all the traffic on the main road. Another worker there, a horse person, suggests that Marion follow along behind me with flashers on. So, up the road we go, our little peculiar caravan. But, the drivers behind Marion were so impatient, they started passing her AND me and Scout. Ugh! So, anyway we make it home, I tie Scout up and offer to carry Marion back down to the store but she wanted to walk. I had to be convinced that she really wanted the stroll! She is a great person. She and her husband John are a blessing to our community. As I said, they live in Vermont (their children go to school with our children and John and Marion are very active in the school, John is on the board and Marion, among other things, runs a thrift shop that supports the school with it's proceeds) but their grocery store is in Crown Point, NY. I don't know what I would do without that store! So, thanks Marion! And, guess what, despite all the efforts to fix any way for Scout to break out, he's already out again this morning. This time I just tethered him and he's out in the front yard at this moment grazing-whew, nadm!

Yield Sign Mystery Exposed!

Okay-so somewhere in the recesses of my brain, I remember having a 'discussion' with someone (prob Chris) about the color of a yield sign. So, last week, at school, one of the boy's teachers mentioned a yield sign and it being yellow and black. Jesse, pipes up: "Actually, Mrs. Murphy, I believe a yield sign is red and white." To which she answered: "No, it's yellow and black." A discussion began and Adam concurred with Jesse. Only one other student, one of the principal's sons, agreed that a yield sign was red and white. The rest of this little enlightened community basically laughed at the boys for 'thinking' a yield sign was red and white. On the way home, the boys ask their Daddy what color a yield sign was. Guess what Daddy said? That's right.....yellow and black! So, they arrive home and Jesse greets me with the same question to which I answer 'Red and White' for which I'm rewarded with a high-five! So, Jesse begins relating the school story to me. I know this teacher, and I really like her, so I know she wasn't being prideful or obstinate (I couldn't say the same for the group of dk's in the classroom). To the computer we go, to look up yield signs, where we find that indeed a yield sign IS red and white. But, we also found that there is a great debate out there on this topic. You may wonder how there can be a debate about something that is answerable by simply looking at a yield sign. But, to a person who thinks it is yellow or yellow/black, simply proving it to them will not be sufficient. It is so imprinted on their brain that they are convinced there IS a breed of yellow/black yield signs. Well, indeed, there used to be a yellow/black yield sign but that was so long ago, that most people arguing weren't even born or couldn't remember them (They have all been red/white since 1971). For one, they were also triangular and had the word 'yield' on them but directly under that the words 'right of way'- even yellow yielders don't have that memory...lol. I'm not making fun of anyone, I just think that this phenomenon is amazing. MOST people you ask will say that a yield sign is yellow or yellow/black....try it. If it isn't most, it's an inordinate number for a sign that doesn't exist! So, if you thought a yield sign was yellow/black, you are in the majority. If you thought it was red/white, you are correct. I can only think of one reason why people think that yield signs are yellow/black. And that is because it is imprinted on the American brain, that yellow means slow down or caution, so much so that it overrides reality with regard to the yield sign. So get out there and do your own personal survey. It is rather amusing. Look it up online and see the 'discussions' including statements like this: "I don't know what country you live in but in the United States yield signs are yellow and black" to which someone replies: "They are red and white you ignorant bas#$%^!". So, there you have it-the yield sign mystery exposed. I would like to hear your yield sign thoughts and experiences. As Stacey says, don't be a blog stalker...lol.
McCain/Palin: Power to the People!

Gracie Update

Thank you to those who prayed for Gracie. She had her GI test yesterday in Burlington. Preliminarily, everything "looks normal for her". The doctor said the reason for the slow emptying of her stomach is probably because she has more "loops" than a normal person does. Of course, this is part of her abnormal anatomy and the corrections the surgeries have made. Did y'all see the catholic vote video? If you haven't, watch it-trust me, it IS good. It really puts things into perspective. http://www.catholicvote.com/
I woke up this morning and Abbs walked out of the home office. I was like what are you doing home. First, I thought she must have a migraine, but she didn't look ill. Come to find out, Scout had gotten out and she had to corral him and ended up being too late. That darned electric fence! Well, thankfully, he didn't make it far. We were surprised he even initiated a bust on his own (we separated them and put dixie in a stall in another area and they've been whinnying for each other frantically ever since-sounds like the movie Spirit around here-lol). But, anyway, an extra blessing today, Abbey is home with me and the littles. This makes me happy!
This is kinda funny. Here's the deal, we rarely ever have anything new. You know how it is, trying to make your way on a little. Buying used and keeping for decades. Well, we don't watch a lot of tv, but we do watch movies and the news. Our tv was just about gone! All the connections were worn out and if you wanted to watch a movie you had to literally jiggle the av plug to get the picture and fiddle incessantly with converter to get any sound. It was so frustrating. I have been begging Chris to get a new tv. So, our church gave us a modest monetary gift for Pastor appreciation last week. With that, we bought a tv. It is so great-I love it! It is a rather small one compared to what other people have but I am just enthralled with how thin it is. It is light as a feather and hardly takes up any room. I am now just laughing at our computer which is like a mile deep-it just goes on and on. We really need a new computer but that will probably not be happening any time soon. We try to do everything on this old job. Chris's sermons and studies, the kids schoolwork, research and essays, my computer work. We are doing good if it doesn't shut down on us while we are using it. It has a mind of it's own-lol. But, it is amazing what is out there. Technology is truely amAZing-to me!
Hey, another thought. Adam and Jesse were in class the other day when their teacher mentioned a 'yield sign'. So, my question to you is..."What color is a yield sign? Don't look it up, just answer what you think/know/believe. I'll give you the story next time!
~Lindy

Teaching Reading, Lisping Lips and Almighty God

Do y'all like teaching reading? It is not my favorite thing to do, truth be told, but, it is so rewarding when they 'get it' and start kinda rollin' on their own, with guidance. This is Liberty's year to learn to read. With the others I started at 5 but with her (kinda by default cuz i had so many to teach) I waited until she was 6. I am here to say that, in her case, I am thrilled. Once she crossed the 'phonics threshold' it has been so much easier. I love it- She talks with a little lisp (she would say 'lithp' lol) and she's reading along with her little sweet voice. I have used Rod and Staff to teach all my children to read and I am so happy to say that, so far, each of my children's first officially 'read' word was 'God'. After that first word, within a few days they are reading the story of creation. For the sixth time I am hearing these same words coming out of one of my children's mouths. "God" "God made light." "God made the light." "He made the sky." You know, I have thought about what is the most important thing to begin to teach a new Christian and it seems to me that the most important thing you could give them would be a high view of God. The same is true, in my opinion, about my children. If I can give them anything, I want to give them a high view of God. A humble place from which they can learn all the other truths that surround Him and His plan. "Our God is in heaven, He does as He pleases." As Pastor Chris Agee has said many times "If you didn't exist, what does it mean?" (in response to the thinking about God's truths "what does this mean to you?"). May my kids never presume to 'shake a fist at God'. May they always bow a humble head and raise an expectant face...

Liberty Ann

~Blessings,
Lindy

Well, we're halfway through this week and only one 'crisis' this week yet...lol. On Monday, I received a call from the 'dog control' lady in our town (we are quite familiar with each other as we have an interesting neighbor next door, who loves to call anybody who might be able to fine, reprimand, or change something at our house. We have had the state trooper up here many times, the code inspector and the dog control lady several times-always with the same result...the lady must be crazy). Anyway, back to the point, this time the call had nothing to do with our neighbor. The first question I heard on the other end was "Do you have horses?" You can imagine the groan that began to emerge from deep within-because there is only ONE reason why a horseowner gets asked that question on that manner....Soooo, I say yes and she sets about to describe our horses and tell me where they are (I didn't know they were out because I can't see them up on the hill behind our house-we are in the process of figuring out how to get a round pen up-Abbey needs it for training and we need it and a barn for the horses to be closer and within sight of the house and out of the weather this winter.). So, the horses had been picked up by a fellow horse owner after having spent the night in Gunnisons Apple Orchard feasting on MacIntosh's. Come to find out, this is the second time this lady has been there for us in a crisis time. A couple of years ago I had a small wreck (not my fault, except for maybe a tiny) and it was close to her house and she came out to help. Anyway, so she has horses and is a farrier. She gave up her day of appts. to trailer and corral our horses because at that time noone knew who's they were. So, the dog control lady calls us on a last ditch attempt to find out who owns the horses (she saw our horse trailer at the house as she was going to Ticonderoga). I called Chris, not very happy, because I hate the solar powered electric fence he is convinced works but so far has not been effective at keeping them in. Dixie has, walked it down, and jumped it and most recently ran right through it and busted it down! Anyway, a new plan is in order (it's too bad plans cost money which it means it probably won't come to fruition!). Anyway, I suggested to him (haha) to be home by a certain time when the lady was gonna bring them over. He took off the last period, checked the kids out and they came on home. Abbey and I took off to her house and she followed us home. I guess it turned out kinda good because we got to get to know Heather and her friend Ada (both very talented horse people). We hope to learn some stuff from them. Heather and her horse were 7th in the world for reigning last year! Very impressive! I was very impressed with the way she trailered Scout. Dixie goes on easily but Scout kinda has refused to go on without a fight. He tried to fight her but she was too experienced for him-it only took her 5 minutes to get him on and he just walked on himself, didn't have to be forced on. So this was another good thing that came out of it, we found out Scout will go on without having to be picked up and thrown on! I tried to pay her but she wouldn't take anything. I felt soooo bad that she had given up appts. to care for our horses. Anyway, maybe we can do a favor for her sometime. I don't know if I told you that Abbey works at McDonalds. Well, the whole time we were with the Heather and Ada, they didn't recognize that they had ever seen Abbey before. But, Abbey had to work the day we were with them so while they were here, Abbey came out in her uniform and visor with her hair pulled back and they both lit up and said "OOOOOh now I know who you are!!!" We were, like hahahahaha! They commented on how sweet Abbey was at work and how they weren't used to being told "Thank you, come again!" (which is soooo true-come north and take note at how different the people in fast food and other businesses treat you). Anyway, as always Abbey is precious in everything, even working at McDonalds! Most of y'alls children are younger than mine but I hope your teenagers are as sweet and loving and non-rebellious as ours are. The teen years are different and everyone has to make some adjustments but they don't have to turn out like all the people say when they tell you: "You just wait til they are teenagers..." like they are gonna turn into monsters that you can't control. As with so many things, a good relationship with open communication where a child or teen KNOWS they are loved goes a long way at preventing the common things others seem to go through. I'm not bragging, I'm blessed! But, my teenagers love me so much I can't keep them off me (which I don't want to anyway). They love to hug me, sit on my lap, go places with me, talk to me, spend time with me and they don't talk back to me or scream at me! Thank you Lord for blessing me with my children!

Dixie-the escape instigator...

Scout eating sweet feed out of my hand and licking every speck he can!

Mama and Abbey

So, I had a yard sale on Saturday that has stretched into today and beyond. I'm gonna just keep it going till I get rid of most of the stuff or it starts to rain, whichever comes first...lol. It is really nice to get rid of "stuff". I have found that one of my main titles has become the "stuff manager". And....we have too much "stuff"! So, I'm getting rid of it. I'm giving a bunch of stuff away-people love the free pile! We have 2 out buildings (besides the shop) that used to be efficiency apartments. We call them 'green' and 'brown'. Since we've been here, they have not so efficiently housed out junk. But, I am proud to say that we have cleaned 'green' out! You can walk in there, and actually SEE the Christmas decorations, which will be easy to get to this year. All of our golf clubs are neatly placed and easily accessible. (Chris has always played golf, but maybe you didn't know I had taken it up and I love it-the kids have also started. Of course, we have a good teacher, but everybody has that beautiful Agee swing-it comes harder for me cuz it's not from my side of the family). Anyway, so 'green' is cleaned out-yayyyy!

You know, I've always been a homecookin' kinda girl. I've carried on my Granny's (she's with the Lord, now) famous buttermilk biscuits, and have even begun perfecting her yummy tomato gravy. I've always made my mashed potatoes from real potatoes-a lot of work! With a yummy result. But lately, I've discovered something that has turned my world upside down! Instant mashed potatoes!!!!!! So, if you have never considered this lowly product, I'm gonna give you a tip that may change your mind. Here's my disclaimer-of course, anything made from scratch is a healthier alternative. That said, many of you reading this blog have big familes or busy schedules so there's a place in your life for something quick and easy. So, here's my recipe. I've gotten so good (I know you are impressed) at this I don't measure so just adjust as you need. Walmart brand instant potatoes are the kind I usually buy. I also buy the Walmart chicken broth. So, for 'instance' open 2 cans of chicken broth (obviously the small cans-like 16 oz. or something) and put in a boiler. Add 2-4 tbsp of butter, and however much milk you want-probably about 2-3 cups. Bring to a boil. Make sure it doesn't boil over because you WILL have a mess. Just as it comes to a boil, turn off the heat and take it off the eye. Then add enough flakes to make it the consistency that you prefer. It is easy to add too many and make them too sticky, so watch out, they come out fast. Stir as you add and you can kinda see how they are thickening. Some of this, maybe, most of this, is elementary to you, but just in case you are like me and had never made them until this year, I give detail. I would not add salt as the chicken broth makes it salty enough. Here's how I enjoy mine after they are made. Maybe I'm a little weird, but even the presentation makes them better. I eat mine off of a luncheon sized plate. Add a spoonful of sour cream and some pepper if you like it, and eat with a fork! So yummy!!!! A very good Mommy snack to savor and enjoy during a stolen, quiet moment! Comment and tell me your instant mashed potato stories.

So, yesterday, Abbey wanted to go across the road to the railroad tracks and take pictures. We had so much fun. A huge freight came right after we got down there, so we had to duck into the woods while it roared by. Here are a few pics from our photo session.

It is so nice to have a daughter who is also my best friend. We laugh so hard when we're together. We understand each other and know what each other is thinking before we even say it. I am so blessed to have her as a daughter and a friend. ILY Abbey~

Oh, a few nights ago, I had to rescue a friend of Abbey's from haircolor emergency. Abbey wanted her's highlighted so I did that, too. They both turned out good. I have been wanting to highlight Sam's hair, I just knew it would look great, so I pulled his through the cap and it looks so good. Adam and Jesse wanted their's done, too, so I gave them highlights, too. Guys are so whiny when they get their hair pulled through the cap! haha-ILY boys!

Well, have a great day. I gotta run go, homeschool, clean, and run my yardsale!

xxxooo

Lindy

Hello Peoples!!! I hope you are having a great day! Before I go on with this post, I just want to deal with one issue. In my last post, I dabbled in a little political talk, which I will probably do again. It appears that at least one person may have been offended by it. So, let me clear up for all you Christian Democrats. In no way was I implying that you could not be a Christian and a Democrat at the same time. Nor, was it my intention (nor, in fact, did I) judge anyone's heart. My observations are just that, my observations, and, held by others, also, I might add. I believe everyone is accountable to God for their actions, not to me. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, including me, I hope. No hard feelings!

Okay, that said!

So today, Gracie stayed home from school today because she was supposed to have an appt. with her pediatrician. she's been having some tummy pain. I think it may be scar tissue from her stomach surgeries. For those of you who are just starting to keep up with our family, our 4th child, Gracie, has some severe congenital anomalies of the heart and abdomen. She has what is called Heterotaxy syndrome with asplenia. She has had malrotation of the bowel with 2 obstructions over the years which brought her close to death at least once. She has had 3 heart surgeries (2 of them open heart) and 2 stomach surgeries. She has anaphylaxis to dairy and almost died from that at 9 months (she was resuscitated). As I said she is asplenic, so she takes antibitotics everyday for that. She is a single ventricle and has pulmonary stenosis and a double SVC. She is a completed Fontan now. Last year she became very ill and was septic, again, she almost died and ended up in Boston. God is sooooo gracious and saw her through this trial safely. She has recently been diagnosed with Klippel Fiel Syndrome for which she is supposed to have an increased risk for paralysis and even death. Now, her neurosurgeon has limited the activities that she can participate in, understandably. So, that was the crash course on Gracie, back to her tummy. So, she's been having pain, which I think may be scar tissue and she was supposed to go to the dr. today (so I kept her home) but he didn't come in to the office today. Just a side note, if you see Gracie (and for those of you that know her) you would never guess she has all these issues. She's very tenacious, bright, hardworking and has a smile that will win you over with one glance!


and here she is.....Gracie Lane!!!!!

So, you could keep her in your prayers, please. Samuel Isaac was supposed to go to the doc today for a follow-up for his beestings, but obviously, he won't go either. So, I'll move on with the rest of the day's plan. I'm having a yard-sale, so I'm gonna go set up for that!
Love you All!
Lindy

Thinking today....can you believe we are less than 30 days out from the 2008 presidential election. I really hope the liberal media and polls are wrong when they say Obama is ahead. I was shocked to find out that 2 older ladies at our church are Obama supporters. One said she is supporting Obama because McCain said the war would go on for 100 years. I don't know what he meant but I don't think it was literally that. I'll have to research that. The scary thing is that in order for a Christian to support Obama, you have to ignore his ties to William Ayers and his close association with the shady activity of Acorn...and his position on abortion. Well, people, I hope everyone is vigilant in these unstable days. Please vote!!!! Don't console yourself with the notion that one vote isn't going to make a difference. Everyone only has one vote-and they do count!


Well, I know I have a lot of SAHM's who read my blog so, I want to speak to you today. Today you will do hundreds of seemingly meaningless things-some that you have already done hundreds of times. You have your own way of folding underwear (in fact, if you're like me, it's different for each person, ie. very small underwear are stacked neatly, not even folded...lol). It gets tiresome and old, I know, and some days you wonder what it's all for. Some of you have college degrees and that nagging voice keeps rearing it's head "you could be doing something more....". I think this way, too. But, truth is, there is nothing more important that you could ever undertake to do than to raise children in the fear and admonition of the Lord. I know that you already know this, but...humor me. It's good to be reminded and maybe I'm reminding myself. Let's face it, after you've researched the hard issues (ie. immunizations, schooling, etc.) and taken your stand, then it's mainly (hopefully, although some of us have had more challenging situations) daily maintenance and a lot of mundane work. But, believe me, life does change. Once your oldest gets into the teen years, the face of your family will begin to change. Enjoy these easy years while they are are still small and their issues are small. These are some good times...


ILY


Lindy


ps-Here's a cleaning tip. During a busy week, when you can't keep up with all the housework, if you can't do anything else, keep up the 2 things that pile up-laundry and dishes. It takes the same amount of time to vacuum whether you wait 5 days are whether you do it everyday. On the other hand, if you let the laundry pile up, you will be covered up in it and it will take way more time, same with dishes! Happy Housecleaning!

Speaking of teens.....here is my sweet 16, Abbey!

I love this child soooo much-she is beautiful inside and out!

Ok, so another week begins at the Agee household! This weekend was a blast. Friday night Chris went to a bible study at one of our elder's houses. On Saturday morning, the 'Ladies of Grace' met with the men's Saturday morning bible study crew. The men fixed US breakfast then we had some teaching from Pastor Chris. The ladies discussed the various ministries they are developing and heading up. It is neat to see this. 4 ministries have come out of Ladies if Grace in just 2 months of existence. The Bread Basket, ran by Miss Kitty (a ministry to help first our church members, then others, with food in times of need). Sheltering Arms, ran by Miss Dawn (a ministry to the folks at Lord Howe (a senior housing community where she lives-she has a monthly birthday party and celebration for everyone in the community whose b'day falls in that month). Helping Hands, ran by Miss Laura (this is a ministry which provides meals to church members in times of sickness or other crisis) and the newest ministry Community Care for Christ, ran by Linda D ( a ministry that will give away hats, coats, gloves and mittens to the community for free, starting this month because it has gotten cold already). So, this is very encouraging to see the ladies stepping out and serving.








Saturday afternoon was the first annual wood chopping contest and archery shoot at out house. It was very well attended by Vermonters and New Yorkers. We grilled hot dogs and had a ton of snacks.

This was the teen division! They all gave it their best and did a great job!! Justin Genova won!

Above is the junior division which consisted of Samuel Isaac and Jarod Pike. Sam won the fastest split and Jarod won the least # of hits! Great job boys!!!



This is our curly-headed monster, Judah! He had a ball watching all the splitting and can't wait until he can swing the maul! He's a rascal!



Well, it was a fun day! Thanks everyone who helped make it a special day for all the kids and adults! We capped the weekend off with church, of course. Chris continued his series on America with an exhortation to the people to send the light-put God's Word out there and be salt and light in this decaying society. As we all know, it is never a waste of time to preach and teach the Word. It always has some effect for we know it never goes forth and returns void! What a great comfort and an encouragement to invest in something that is guaranteed to have results (which we will leave to God, Himself, of course)! Well, I hope everyone has a great week. Miss you all and may God Bless all you sweet friends and family!
Lindy

News flash!

Just heard back from our pediatrician who reviewed Sam's bloodwork and he noted that his liver enzymes were NOT elevated because it's normal in kids whose bones are still growing to have a number that high come back in the bloodwork. I feel a lot better now and I'm glad his ped. looked at it. They are in the same office but he was full today so we had to see a PA. I know all you folks back South are going-"HE had to see a PA?!?" or "What is a PA?!?!" But, that's the way they do it around here. Our pediatrician doesn't live in our town and only comes here certain days a week and those are filled in advance sooo.....it's whoever has an opening at the ONE clinic in our town!!!
Pray for Sam, though, if you will, he's not feeling well, as I said before.
Lindy

Whew! Finally Friday!!!!!
Well, yesterday Samuel Isaac was stung by 2 yellowjackets while playing football with Adam and Jesse. He then developed a severe rash from head to toe and was very nauseated. I gave him Benedryl 2 x's last night, but he woke up this a.m. still nauseated and vomiting. Soooo....I took him to the doc and he had some blood work, got a script for steroids and an epipen and we went for lunch. Later the PA called and said Sam's liver enzymes were elevated but not dangerously so, just watch him. I called his reg. pediatrician for confirmation and still haven't heard back from him yet. Anyway, we're home now and he's resting. I don't think I'll give him the steroids. Although his hands have remained very swollen along with the overall rash that seems to ebb and flow.
I have been seeing commercials for the movie Fireproof and I really wanna see it. It looks really good. I think it's from the folks that put out Facing the Giants (very good msg.). No offense, but I hope the acting is better. Should be with Kirk Cameron.
Chris has planned a "firewood splitting contest" here at our home tomorrow afternoon. Some of his students and a bunch of other people are coming. Should be interesting. Maybe I'll get some pics and put 'em on. So, I watched Sarah Palin and Joe Biden last night. Joe Biden struck me as basically sincere ( I think his initial responses are sincere but his "Obama face" is greasy) and I felt a little sorry for him when he talked about his wife and child. Sarah did awesome. I was so nervous for her when she first come out! I really prayed for her and God answered. She seemed at ease and confident and I thought she was the utimate leader of the debate. Even though Joe Biden got the first shot at a lot of the answers, she led him in how he ultimately answered. When she went sincere and personal, he went sincere and personal. When she went point blank honest, he went point blank honest. She clearly has more leadership qualities, even Biden followed her. A natural born leader, people can't help but follow. Well, there's my political speech for the day. Oh and did I say I HATE the mainstream media. What a farce! Can you trust a thing they say? I don't think so.
Well, I better go check on Sam, Liberty and Judah. Have a great weekend everyone!
Lindy

Today is Wednesday-the middle of a long week!!! Not much going on around here this week, which makes the time drag on and on. Between school everyday, homework, getting wood for the winter, cooking and cleaning, and keeping everybody's mp3's charged we manage to make it through up here. I do miss my mother and my homestate (it's a word now...lol) a lot these days. The older I get the more I think of home. I have been hooking up with my highschool friends on facebook and myspace-mostly facebook. One of the girls I graduated with started a group for our 1986 Holt High Alumni. I'm gonna look for some old pics and scan them to my computer so I can put them on our group page. Some others have been posting pics and it's kinda funny to see those faces again after all these years. One of my friends says she has some pics of me that my kids would be interested in seeing..lol. I guess that is a form of blackmail! I do often think of other friends, too, and wish things were different. Our house is still on the market but, right now, I guess there is not much demand for a house this size. Please pray that it will sell. I think this would give Chris a boost to see it sell. He stays pretty busy-working 2 jobs (school and church). He's been preaching about America-In Due Time Her Foot Will Slide-very good messages. I think they've been recorded for any who are nostalgic to hear his voice or just want to get a great message...lol. Abbey is doing well-in love with John-Parker Wilson-quarterback for Alabama. She wants to go to the University of Alabama when she graduates. Adam is adjusting well to school. He just finished designing and building a catapult here at home. His brain-a rare specimen! Jesse is enthralled with football (all the kids are mad about Alabama football). He loves to watch it, play it, talk it! He wants to play for Alabama when he's older. Gracie loves school. You know Gracie, full speed ahead. The family secretary-keeps everybody in line! She has an ear infection right now but is getting better. Samuel Isaac is the big man around the house now. He is an amazig kid and cute, too! He is an all around athlete who can put the moves on his older brothers, much to their dismay. He is probably the most like his daddy. Liberty is just a little beauty. She is such a wise creature. She is everything you want in a little girl and more. Full of love and compassion. She knows how to handle her critter of a brother, Judah-the curly-headed monster! He can never be far from her, she is his mainstay. Judah is one goofy boy-you laugh just looking at him. As I said in my last post, he loves little cars. His favorite movie is....you guessed it..."Cars" or "cars the movie" as Judah calls it. No telling how many times he's watched it or how many more he would if I let him. Well, sounds like they are finished with their lunch and getting rowdy in the kitchen. ttyl Linda

We had our first fire in the wood stove last night. Winter is coming early here in the North Country. Adam and Jesse built teepees yesterday and spent the cold night outside. They are still out there as I type, so, they must be cozy in their sleeping bags.
Chris is teaching (math and science) fulltime at Champlain Valley Christian School this year and, of course, still pastoring at the newly merged (with Grace Fellowship of Crown Point) Cornerstone Alliance Church in Ticonderoga. Incidentally, Chris became a C & MA Alliance pastor a few months ago. We have been very pleased with our new affiliation. So, back to the school thing-Abbey (junior), Adam (8th), Jesse (7th) and Gracie (5th) are attending CVCS with their Daddy this year. This is a big adjustment for me as I have homeschooled exclusively for all these years (with the exception of Abbey-she attended CVCS last yr.). It is the best thing for them and they are adjusting well. It has really given me the opportunity to focus on 'the littles'. Sam is in the 3rd grade and Liberty is in 1st. Judah (age 4) is doing a few lessons but mostly plays with his little matchbox cars during school. He LOVES his little cars-he can never have enough of them. Today the kids have a dental appt. in Glens Falls, so they are all home with me. I know they enjoyed the extra day of sleeping in as they have to get up everyday by 6:15 am-something they have never had to do before in their lives on a regular basis.
Last month I took Abbey to the Izod Center in NJ (very close to NYC) to try out for American Idol-now that was an experience! Afterwards we went to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island-great time! Gracie and Abbey also won their town and county Idol contests and went to the Great NY State Fair in Syracuse where they competed and made it to the semi-finals. There was a nice article in our local paper about Abbey, with a beautiful picture-no, of course I'm not biased!
Well, so much to do, so I'll end this inaugural post.
Love to All!