Settling In........

This move has been amazing.  We saw so many neat animals on the way. We stopped along the way and had a lot of fun.  We were able to see family and friends we had missed so much during our tour in Alaska.  I could not have asked for a better trip.  It took us over 5,000 miles (with all the visits and stops) and a month and a half to move and find a new home.  We found a property that is settled on 3 acres with 27 more up for sale.  We plan on buying as much as we can.  I can not tell you how peaceful and serene it is here.  The area is beautiful and the people are so nice.   I ran across a great deal and was able to buy 3 Nigerian Dwarf Goats.  The two adult females may be pregnant.  The white one is Ellie and the grey one is May.  The baby is May's kid and her name is Sassy.  I did not name them, they came with names. lol.. Hopefully, I can start milking them in April when they should Kidd.  We plan on using the milk for soap, cheese and dairy needs.  We also acquired 3 new pets several weeks ago.  Cody adopted two cats from the local shelter.  They were named Jamie and Keri after two close family friends.  Brandon Adopted an English bulldog/German Shepherd mix and named him Mikey.   We have so many animals now. lol.. Next, we plan on getting Maran chickens and a few horses.  I guess then, our property can officially be called a "Hobby Farm."  We are truly happy here.  We definitely miss Alaska, especially the snow and the Northern lights this time of year, but I think we will enjoy our time here and make a lot of great memories.  If I have learned anything during this move it is that God knows what he is doing. I did not want to move and thought I would hate it here. When we stop being stubborn and actually listen with an open heart, we will be blessed beyond measure.  Bless you and your family during this holiday Season.  I hope you find something to be truly grateful for.  

Palin

I was able to take my daughter to the Welcome Home rally for Sarah Palin this evening.  What a treat.  We were able to secure a good spot and *almost* got an autograph.  I was lucky enough to get to shake Todd Palin's hand. (See picture) My first thought was, " I can't wash my hand now " but then I thought of all the hands he just shook and had to get the germ-X.  lol.  All goofiness aside, this was such a neat opportunity.  Lex is really interested in the election and to be able to share this night with her was truly special.  Sarah is refreshing and has energized me and my whole family.  We can hardly wait for this election.

Homemade Laundry Soap

I have had a few people request the recipe I use for Homemade Laundry Soap.  I started making my own soap about a month ago and wish I would have done it sooner.  My good friend started making her own soap a while back and inspired me to do the same. (Thanks arrow sparrow)  My recipe is different than hers in that she uses the powder version and I use the liquid gel version.  They both use the same basic ingredients.  The cost comes out to be about .71 cents per 2 gallons.  That is about .01 cent a load.  It works very well and smells great! Enjoy.

 Homemade Laundry Soap

1/3 bar Fels Naptha or other type of bar soap. (I use a little more than 1/3 of a bar as it contributes to a better gel. Ivory works well for those with sensitive skin)
½ cup washing soda
½ cup borax powder
~You will also need a small bucket, about 2 gallon size~ (Or you can save a laundry detergent container to refill)

Grate the soap and put it in a sauce pan. Add 6 cups water and heat it until the soap melts. Add the washing soda and the borax and stir until it is dissolved. Remove from heat. Pour 4 cups hot water into the bucket. Now add your soap mixture and stir. Now add 1 gallon plus 6 cups of water and stir. Let the soap sit for about 24 hours and it will gel. You use ½ cup per load.

I also use a few tablespoons of vinegar per load as a fabric softener.  No, this does not make your clothes smell.  It does not soften as well as commercial bought softeners but is still a good alternative.  

Changes..

     There are so many changes coming up for our family.  We have been blessed by living the last four years in Alaska.  We have made so many good friends and had some of the best experiences of our life here.  It is the first place in a very long time that has felt like "home".  We have been a part of a wonderful  home school program that has offered more support than I could have imagined.  We have been part of the most precious church family.  Yes, it will be very hard to leave.  Yet I know that God has a perfect plan for my family.  Our life with the Air Force has given us so many wonderful opportunities we otherwise would not  have had.  I am thankful for each and every one.  I know that our next assignment will be filled with more wonderful experiences and adventures and I am excited at the prospect.  

     I do wonder how the children will handle the vast contrasts.  We will be moving from the icebox into the frying pan.  Going from 9 months of winter to maybe just 2 mild ones.  -30 to 100 above.   From moose and bears to snakes and bugs. Oh, and did I mention that we will be moving ourselves and driving 4,229 miles with three kids, a dog and a trailer?   I'm sure it will be entertaining.  Watch out Alabama...here we come.