I was reading my Bible last night in 1 Samuel. As I read the story of Hannah and how much she longed for a child of her own, I could relate and my heart ached for her. What is inspiring about Hannah is her obedience to the Lord. She prayed diligently for a son and it was through her trusting in the Lord that she received one. There is much to be learned from Hannah’s story. In the second chapter of 1 Samuel, we are given the first account of a woman’s prayer in the Old Testament. So take notice-it must be important! Children are a gift from God. Parenting can be one of the most rewarding and most difficult experiences in life. Just as Hannah, we can give our children back to God by raising them up in Christ. Pray for your children, forgive your children (they are learning!), and love your children unconditionally. Through obedience, you can teach your children about God’s faithfulness!
Five Fun Fall Activities
Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year. The hot summer days are replaced with a crispness in the air. With color abound, gather the family and take advantage of these fun fall activities. You are sure to love them year after year.
1. Go on a leaf hunt
This is a fun activity that allows for many great photo opportunities. All you have to do is pick your favorite sunny day and head outside. Each child can carry his/her own small basket or paper bag to collect their leaves in. Once home, use the leaves to create colorful art projects. The projects can then be used to decorate your home. What a great way to welcome fall!
Follow the link for fall art projects. Leaf Stamping
2. Visit some craft fairs
Craft fairs are a great way to support your local community. Artists of all kinds spend hours preparing for these events. I have found some of the most unique gifts at craft fairs and I ALWAYS leave inspired.
3. Take a hayride to a pumpkin patch
This is a family tradition waiting to happen! It is the same idea as going to the tree farm at Christmas and picking out the Christmas tree. Grab some hot apple cider and some kettle corn and hop a ride to the pumpkin patch. Allow each member of the family to pick one out to decorate. I also get a few sugar pumpkins for baking!
Check locally to find a patch near you. Many of these fun family places offer a corn maze too. What a great way to get “lost” one afternoon!
4. Make a scarecrow
This project may sound intimidating, but it is really super simple. Many of the items for the project are probably already laying around your house. Allow each member of the family to create one in their own image to display in the front yard. Your scarecrow family will be fun to come home to!
Follow the link for the full directions. Scarecrow directions
5. Go apple picking
Aside from being healthy, the tastiest apples are the ones you pick yourself. There is an abundance of recipes that can be whipped up using your favorite varieties. Applesauce, apple pie, apple muffins, apple crisp, apple donuts, apple butter, apple cider, caramel apples, should I keep going?
Check online for local orchards near you by visiting your state’s Department of Agricultural Resources or the home site of your town/city.
A Fun Way to Welcome Fall
I love the beautiful colors of fall! Each year I am stumped on how to bring the outside indoors. After much experimentation, I discovered an inexpensive way to make it happen. I began by collecting many different leaves that were freshly fallen on the ground. I then gathered different color paints that were representative of fall colors. On each leaf, I painted the different colors. Some were one solid color such as yellow while others had some red and orange. I then used the leaves to make prints on the inside of my windows. It gives the look of fallen leaves through the whole season. Be sure to use a paint that is not too thick. A water based paint may make for easier cleanup and it allows for some sunlight to capture the beauty of your leaves. A stem can be added with some brown paint and a fine brush once you have stamped each leaf on the window and it has dried. To remove your leaves, a CLEAN razor blade will scrape it right off. First dampen the area with a solution of water and ammonia or some glass cleaner. Scrape off painted area and wipe with a clean rag or paper towel. Be careful not to scratch the glass! Wipe the blade off frequently to remove any debris from the blade. *Always keep sharp objects out of reach of children.
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