Make it a great one!!
About Tammy: Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother of 7 (ages: G12, G11, B8, G6, B5, B2, G1). Stepmom of 2. Mother in law to two, Grandma to Peyton, Mattix and Andrew and blogger at BellaOnline!! Happy & Satisfied
Make it a great one!!
About Tammy: Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother of 7 (ages: G12, G11, B8, G6, B5, B2, G1). Stepmom of 2. Mother in law to two, Grandma to Peyton, Mattix and Andrew and blogger at BellaOnline!! Happy & Satisfied
Recipe adapted from here. Thanks Confessions of a Cookbook Queen for a Yummy idea!! Can’t wait to try it out!!
Make it a great one!!
About Tammy: Daughter, Sister, Wife, Homeschooling Mother of 7 (ages: G13, G12, B10, G7, B6, B3, G2). Stepmom of 2. Mother in law to two, Grandma to Peyton, Mattix and Andrew and blogger/writer at BellaOnline and Latter-Day Homeschool and JuddzWorld!! Happy & Satisfied!!
For many, the pioneer trek of 1847 didn’t begin at Nauvoo, Kirtland, Far West, or New York but rather in distant England, Scotland, Scandinavia, or Germany. Tiny children could not fully comprehend the dynamic faith that motivated their parents to leave behind family, friends, comfort, and security.
A little one might ask, “Mommy, why are we leaving home? Where are we going?”
“Come along, precious one; we’re going to Zion, the city of our God.”
Between the safety of home and the promise of Zion stood the angry and treacherous waters of the mighty Atlantic. Who can recount the fear that gripped the human heart during those perilous crossings? Prompted by the silent whisperings of the Spirit, sustained by a simple yet abiding faith, those pioneer Saints trusted in God and set sail on their journey.
They finally reached Nauvoo only to set out again to face hardships on the trail. Tombstones of sage and rock marked graves the entire route from Nauvoo to Salt Lake City. Such was the price some pioneers paid. Their bodies are buried in peace, but their names live on evermore.
Tired oxen lumbered, wagon wheels squeaked, brave men toiled, war drums sounded, and coyotes howled. But the faith-inspired and storm-driven pioneers pressed on. Often they sang:
Come, come, ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear;
But with joy wend your way.
Though hard to you this journey may appear,
Grace shall be as your day. …
All is well! All is well!1
These pioneers remembered the words of the Lord: “My people must be tried in all things, that they may be prepared to receive the glory that I have for them, even the glory of Zion.”2
The passage of time dims our memories and diminishes our appreciation for those who walked the path of pain, leaving behind a tear-marked trail of nameless graves. But what of today’s challenges? Are there no rocky roads to travel, no rugged mountains to climb, no chasms to cross, no trails to blaze, no rivers to ford? Or is there a very present need for that pioneer spirit to guide us away from the dangers that threaten to engulf us and to lead us to a Zion of safety?
In the decades since the end of World War II, standards of morality have lowered again and again. Crime spirals upward; decency careens downward. Many are on a giant roller coaster of disaster, seeking the thrills of the moment while sacrificing the joys of eternity. Thus we forfeit peace.
We forget how the Greeks and Romans prevailed magnificently in a barbaric world and how that triumph ended—how a slackness and softness finally overcame them to their ruin. In the end, more than they wanted freedom, they wanted security and a comfortable life; and they lost all—comfort and security and freedom.
Do not yield to Satan’s enticements; rather, stand firm for truth. The unsatisfied yearnings of the soul will not be met by a never-ending quest for joy amidst the thrills of sensation and vice. Vice never leads to virtue. Hate never promotes love. Cowardice never gives courage. Doubt never inspires faith.
Some find it difficult to withstand the mocking and unsavory remarks of foolish ones who ridicule chastity, honesty, and obedience to God’s commands. But the world has ever belittled adherence to principle. When Noah was instructed to build an ark, the foolish populace looked at the cloudless sky and then scoffed and jeered—until the rain came.
Must we learn such costly lessons over and over again? Times change, but truth persists. When we fail to profit from the experiences of the past, we are doomed to repeat them with all their heartache, suffering, and anguish. Haven’t we the wisdom to obey Him who knows the beginning from the end—our Lord, who designed the plan of salvation—rather than that serpent, who despised its beauty?
A dictionary defines a pioneer as “one who goes before to prepare or open up the way for others to follow.”3 Can we somehow muster the courage and steadfastness of purpose that characterized the pioneers of a former generation? Can you and I, in actual fact, be pioneers?
I know we can be. Oh, how the world needs pioneers today!
The scriptures explain that home teachers are to “warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ” (D&C 20:59). Consider pointing out the warnings and invitations contained in President Monson’s message to those you visit. You may want to discuss with them ways to recognize and follow righteous examples, avoid deceptions, and learn from others’ mistakes. Ask those you teach how they can be pioneers today.
Children may enjoy learning more about pioneers by reading the On the Trail series on pages 14–15 of this month’s Friend.
Youth
By Maggi Earl
The author lives in North Carolina, USA.
I will never forget walking the grounds at Winter Quarters, Nebraska, USA, where pioneers had lived years before. The ground felt sacred, almost as if I were visiting an outdoor temple.
My eyes filled with tears, blurring my vision. I saw a statue but could not make out the figures. When I wiped away my tears, I saw a man and a woman whose faces were full of grief. As I looked closer, I saw the figure of an infant lying in a grave at their feet.
This sight filled me with so many emotions: sadness, anger, gratitude, and joy. I wanted to take away the pain those Saints felt, but I was grateful at the same time for what they had sacrificed for the gospel.
My experience at Winter Quarters helped me realize that Heavenly Father gives the gospel to His children and allows them the agency to do with it as they will. The parents of that baby could have chosen to take an easier course. Following the prophet and living the gospel required these pioneers to press forward even when it meant burying their child. But they chose to take the gospel into their lives and accepted their challenges. I learned that the Saints’ dedication to the gospel and their determination to press forward were driven by faith and hope—hope for a bright future and faith that the Lord knew them and could ease their pain.
Children
President Monson says that a pioneer is someone who shows the way for others to follow. What can the children in these pictures do to stand up for what is right and be a pioneer for others? Write your answers in the space under the pictures.
Make it a great one!!
About Tammy: Daughter, Sister, Wife, Homeschooling Mother of 7 (ages: G13, G12, B10, G7, B6, B3, G2). Stepmom of 2. Mother in law to two, Grandma to Peyton, Mattix and Andrew. Writer at BellaOnline. Blogger at Latter-Day Homeschool and JuddzWorld!! Happy & Satisfied!!
WOW! I can’t believe it is JULY!!!! Time sure flies. July is one of my favoritest months of the year: my birthday is July 4th, the United States of America has a birthday on July 4th, my Stepson Josh’s birthday is July 23rd and my Best Friend, whom I have known since I was in 7th Grade’s birthday is July 28th!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US!!!
Make it a great one!!
About Tammy: Daughter, Sister, Wife, Homeschooling Mother of 7 (ages: G13, G12, B10, G7, B6, B3, G2). Stepmom of 2. Mother in law to two, Grandma to Peyton, Mattix & Andrew and blogger at BellaOnline and Latter-Day Homeschool and JuddzWorld!! Happy & Satisfied!!
Make it a great one!!
About Tammy: Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother of 7 (ages: G12, G11, B8, G6, B5, B2, G1). Stepmom of 2. Mother in law to two, Grandma to Peyton, Mattix and Andrew and blogger at BellaOnline!! Happy & Satisfied
Following are some Homeschooling Blogs that you may know about already and some you may not. Enjoy!
In Erica’s words: Confessions of a Homeschooler is a blog full of homeschooling ideas, resources and printables. I began the site in August of 2009 with the start of a new school year. It started off as a way for my husband to ‘see what we do all day’. And has really helped him interact with the kids about what they’ve learned each day. It quickly morphed into a place for sharing ideas and resources with other homeschoolers!
I looked all over her Blog “Anegelicscalliwags” for her name. I didn’t come across it. If you are looking for some inspiration, some curriculum ideas, things to do with your children and just feeling loved, then this is the blog for you!
Beth Gordon shares about her blog: You will find 150+ free printables for Preschool – 6th grade organized by subject. But what I really like to share are my hands-on units in history, science, and art units. I want to inspire you to make your homeschooling days fun so you can enjoy the ride! As I still have younger children at home you will also find ideas for your youngest learners as well as seasonal ideas, family crafts, and ideas for intentionally living day by day.
Kris Bales is the classically eclectic, slightly Charlotte Mason homeschooling mom to three amazing kids, the Christ-following, sweet tea addicted wife to one unbelievably supportive husband, and the formerly obese, couch-potato-turned-healthy runner of a bunch of 5K races and two half-marathons.
The Tiger Chronicle: Homeschooling - Walking our own path
The Tiger Chronicles shares the following information:
To get an idea of how science is learned by other homeschooling families, please visit the other contributors to this series:
- Chareen feels that Science in the Junior Years is about exploring the world around you.
- Lucinda shares her tips on How to Make Sure Science Gets Done When You're Not Using A Curriculum.
- Julie shares her expertise on Creating Your Own Science Curriculum.
- Savannah offers a guest post by Claire who teaches science without a formal curriculum in Science with My Scalliwags.
- Bernadette shows how she tackles science shoes off and hands on in Scientifically Speaking.
- Nicole addresses the issue of Science: The Epic Failure that Wasn't by sharing her realisation that science is so much more than a curriculum.
- Erin shares how her family kindles an interest in scientific matters and how they keep that interest alive in Kindling & Fanning Scientific Minds.
The Homeschool Classroom is a group blog made up of homeschooling Moms sharing tips, ideas, resources, and other inspirations to help all those who are currently homeschooling or discerning the call to do so. We are all Moms that believe in home educating our children, and in sharing what we have experienced with others.
To read more about the wonderful writers that make up The Homeschool Classroom, please check out our authors page.
The Homeschool Classroom is part of Tiny Owl LLC. Sites under the umbrella of Tiny Owl LLC include:
- Many Little Blessings
- The Homeschool Classroom
- Catholic Mothers Online
- Tiny Owl Designs
- Just a Tiny Owl (etsy shop)
- The Catholic Gadget
ArtClubBlog
Bella Manu says: This blog arose from the desire to share project ideas, experiences and inspirations with others. It’s also about encouraging children and adults alike to make and create. We don’t need a special reason or a perfect outcome. The journey just feels good.
May you find something that will spark your homeschooling journey to even greater heights.
Make it a great one!!
About Tammy: Daughter, Sister, Wife, Homeschooling Mother of 7 (ages: G13, G12, B10, G7, B6, B3, G2). Stepmom of 2. Mother in law to two, Grandma to Peyton, Mattix and Andrew. Writer at BellaOnline. Blogger at Latter-Day Homeschool and JuddzWorld!! Happy & Satisfied!!
Following are some Homeschooling Blogs that you may know about already and some you may not. Enjoy!
In Erica’s words: Confessions of a Homeschooler is a blog full of homeschooling ideas, resources and printables. I began the site in August of 2009 with the start of a new school year. It started off as a way for my husband to ‘see what we do all day’. And has really helped him interact with the kids about what they’ve learned each day. It quickly morphed into a place for sharing ideas and resources with other homeschoolers!
I looked all over her Blog “Anegelicscalliwags” for her name. I didn’t come across it. If you are looking for some inspiration, some curriculum ideas, things to do with your children and just feeling loved, then this is the blog for you!
Beth Gordon shares about her blog: You will find 150+ free printables for Preschool – 6th grade organized by subject. But what I really like to share are my hands-on units in history, science, and art units. I want to inspire you to make your homeschooling days fun so you can enjoy the ride! As I still have younger children at home you will also find ideas for your youngest learners as well as seasonal ideas, family crafts, and ideas for intentionally living day by day.
Kris Bales is the classically eclectic, slightly Charlotte Mason homeschooling mom to three amazing kids, the Christ-following, sweet tea addicted wife to one unbelievably supportive husband, and the formerly obese, couch-potato-turned-healthy runner of a bunch of 5K races and two half-marathons.
The Tiger Chronicle: Homeschooling - Walking our own path
The Tiger Chronicles shares the following information:
To get an idea of how science is learned by other homeschooling families, please visit the other contributors to this series:
- Chareen feels that Science in the Junior Years is about exploring the world around you.
- Lucinda shares her tips on How to Make Sure Science Gets Done When You're Not Using A Curriculum.
- Julie shares her expertise on Creating Your Own Science Curriculum.
- Savannah offers a guest post by Claire who teaches science without a formal curriculum in Science with My Scalliwags.
- Bernadette shows how she tackles science shoes off and hands on in Scientifically Speaking.
- Nicole addresses the issue of Science: The Epic Failure that Wasn't by sharing her realisation that science is so much more than a curriculum.
- Erin shares how her family kindles an interest in scientific matters and how they keep that interest alive in Kindling & Fanning Scientific Minds.
The Homeschool Classroom is a group blog made up of homeschooling Moms sharing tips, ideas, resources, and other inspirations to help all those who are currently homeschooling or discerning the call to do so. We are all Moms that believe in home educating our children, and in sharing what we have experienced with others.
To read more about the wonderful writers that make up The Homeschool Classroom, please check out our authors page.
The Homeschool Classroom is part of Tiny Owl LLC. Sites under the umbrella of Tiny Owl LLC include:
- Many Little Blessings
- The Homeschool Classroom
- Catholic Mothers Online
- Tiny Owl Designs
- Just a Tiny Owl (etsy shop)
- The Catholic Gadget
ArtClubBlog
Bella Manu says: This blog arose from the desire to share project ideas, experiences and inspirations with others. It’s also about encouraging children and adults alike to make and create. We don’t need a special reason or a perfect outcome. The journey just feels good.
May you find something that will spark your homeschooling journey to even greater heights.
Make it a great one!!
About Tammy: Daughter, Sister, Wife, Homeschooling Mother of 7 (ages: G13, G12, B10, G7, B6, B3, G2). Stepmom of 2. Mother in law to two, Grandma to Peyton, Mattix and Andrew. Writer at BellaOnline. Blogger at Latter-Day Homeschool and JuddzWorld!! Happy & Satisfied!!