late night talking

It rained and stormed here most of the day... some areas nearby got hail. There are a lot of farmers who are going to have a rough crop this year from all the water and storms. The more I learn the more it seems that farming is a bit like gambling... you just don't know what is going to happen sometimes.
Our rv is still parked outside the house... 6 out of 8 of us have wished we were living in it right now. There is something so peaceful about it. Maybe it is that it's just less of everything. We really don't need much to find happiness.
The girls wanted to go visit Grandma, even though it was pouring down rain. They put on their hoodies and flip flops and walked out the door holding hands. I told them to run, but they didn't. They walked slowly, looking around and talking while holding hands. I watched from the doorway... still amazed that God blessed us with twin daughters. wow!
My garden is growing and so are the weeds! It's so muddy and soggy right now... I'm not even going to try to step foot in it yet. Ozzie played tractors on the edge of garden... in between rain showers. He came inside covered in mud and sporting some wild humid hair!

I'd love to say that all the negativity surrounding our family the last few days hasn't hurt... but it has. I usually have thick skin, but not always. It usually hurts the most when you try to speak the truth and you aren't heard. I just keep telling myself that God knows the truth, he knows my heart and that is all that matters.
I learned how to reply to comments on my blog from my phone {yeah!}... I discovered it while learning how to delete comments on my blog with my phone. You can always learn something!
My husband went to town today and asked me if I needed anything from the store. I replied... "chocolate, all I need is chocolate" and indeed he did bring home chocolate. 3 varieties of organic dark chocolate. Thanks babe, you did good!
and now it's time to call it a night... goodnight friends!
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49 comments:

  1. Salt in Suburbia6/14/11, 11:33 PM

    I love hearing how the girls walked (next door?) to visit Grandma. I grew up next door to my grandparents, and it was such a gift. Good luck with the garden (mine is a bit of a weedy mess at the moment too). Also - no one really has thick enough skin for all the hurtful comments you got recently, but just stay true to your (and God's) plan, and it will be ok.

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  2. I've loved reading your blog for awhile now but I don't know if I've ever commented. It's so sad that you're getting such negative comments- I can't understand how people can be so hurtful to people they don't even know [and to those they do know, for that matter]. I wish you were coming to Utah- I would have loved to have you take our pictures. Best of luck in your adventures!

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  3. I don't know why some people are just mean. I rarely comment on your blog, though I always read, but when people just get nasty, I feel the need to comment. In part to let you know that there are lots of readers who don't agree with the nasty comments- and to just defend you. I want to say, just ignore them. But I know that if it was me, it's hard to just let stuff like that roll off your back.

    I, for one, think you have an amazing family! I am thrilled that you guys have made a turn around financially. The economy sucks right now- so good for you guys! Obviously you had help to get back on your feet- and that's great too. I am happy your family can take this great adventure together! If you make it to Colorado, let me know. :)

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  4. I love your blog and by extension, your family. I guess blogging is rather like politics. It can be a tough biz, and when someone with a good heart shares her heart it can be a surprise that there are people out there who will disapprove of just about anything you do, no matter what that anything may be.
    It appears that you are crossing over to a rather more professional blog with the announcement of this road trip, which, I think, rocks.
    On the outside, perhaps, we share very little. I am an atheist and skeptic, believing in the laws of physics, not the supernatural. On the inside, perhaps, we share understanding, tolerance, acceptance, and the value of a good belly laugh.

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  5. sorry there has been negativity. i just don't understand who in the world would want to discourage someone who has been nothing but encouraging and open on their blog. God bless you and your family in your endeavors! And thank goodness for supportive husbands AND dark chocolate =)

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  6. Words hurt. Even from strangers.

    HUGS.

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  7. sixcrazychildren6/15/11, 8:07 AM

    You sound wounded and that makes me sad. :(

    I have sometimes had hateful things said to me too & no matter how much positive comes our way it interests me that it seems the negative stuff really does hurt. I make such an effort in my day with my family, with my loved ones, people I meet during my day and my bloggy friends to only ever treat people how I would like to be treated myself, hoping that others will follow suit..... sadly it is often not the case. But I will not falter {I wish I was better at that with my husband}... anyway..... I love your story about your girls going carefully next door together and the one of Ozzie..... hope you enjoyed your chocolate :):)

    Peace out sister!

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  8. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 8:18 AM

    Thank you!

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  9. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 8:20 AM

    I love that...so true! Deep down we are all the same. Thanks for sharing.

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  10. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 8:22 AM

    Thank you so much for your encourgement...it means so much. All of the positive outweighs the negative by far!

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  11. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 8:24 AM

    Thank you! I think we will be coming through utah at the end of the year. :)

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  12. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 8:26 AM

    Thank you for your comments...you have been a sweet blog friend.

    It is such a blessing to have them next door..the kids just love them to pieces

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  13. That whole "sticks and stones" saying is complete crap...I'll take the sticks over the words any day. Just remember, you can't please everyone.

     As Dr. Seuss once said: “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”<3

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  14. Shelly Thomson-Blevins6/15/11, 9:02 AM

    I am so sorry that peeople have to be so mean and hurtful! I have had people attack me and my family and it hurts but I have to stop and always remind myslef that I am doing what I know is pleasing to God and that I am stronger than words.

    I am praying for you and your family and all your travels!

    Keep your chin up :)

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  15. I'm sorry that you've gotten hurtful comments :(  That's never fun!

    But luckily you have an awesome hubby who brought you home some chocolate :)

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  16. That would be amazing!

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  17. melanie mcnitt6/15/11, 10:18 AM

    I too have been following your blog for a while now. My husband and I are both public school teachers. (gasp) Our 3 kids go to public school. (gasp) We live on the standard American diet. (gasp) I did not breastfeed any of our children. (double gasp) I do not buy organic food, we spray for weeds, I could go on and on but I LOVE your blog! I donated money, no strings attached, and am SO happy you guys are doing great! Wasn't that the goal?  We live in BEAUTIFUL Northern Michigan right across the street from Lake Charlevoix. If you haven't been this way...it's definatley worth the trip! Wishing you and your family all the best.

    Melanie McNitt

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  18. Whenever you chose a less traditional lifestyle and then open it up to the world, the world is going to respond in their own intimate way.  This is part of the realness of the world and something that you cannot take to the heart.  If you want unconditional kindness and acceptance you are best to leave that to your "real" friends.

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  19. that's so true honey, God knows your heart and true intentions and that indeed is all that matters, who cares what all the negative/jealous people think.  God Bless you and your family.

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  20. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 1:27 PM

    I think you missed the point.

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  21. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 1:28 PM

    Awesome husband is right!

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  22. I read daily, but rarely (hm, not sure ever!) post.   I can see through your writing and what you share of your life that you are passionate, kind, honest, sweet-hearted and an outstanding momma and friend.  I don't (well, I did for one year!) homeschool, eat organic, hang my laundry out to dry, but I LOVE that you do!!  I love to see your recipes.  They challenge me to feed my family healthier!  I am 100% positive that the people who were able to help you two years ago are THRILLED that with their help you are back on your feet and able to plan this dream adventure.  They gave you $ because they wanted to help you and see you succeed.  That you have!  You have obviously put a lot of though, planning and prayer into this.  I can't wait to read about your adventures!  Could you hurry up and hit the road!  ;o) 

      I know it is hard to read the bad stuff and this may sound odd...but try, try not to take it personally.  Much of it is fall out from a blogger who has hurt and deceived many.  You are a much different kind of person.  I suspect that your loyal readers back you and your adventure 100%.  In the meantime, focus on your beautiful babies and have fun making the memories of a lifetime!!!  

    PS I can never get over what a little mini-me Vance is of you!  And the girls.  Be still my heart.  They are alllll so precious...

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  23. I have never commented on a blog before so this is a first for me but I too felt drawn to say something. I love reading your blog and am so happy for you and your family. I pray you can try to focus on the overwhelming number of POSITIVE comments you have received and try to minimize the impact of the much, MUCH FEWER negative ones( I know it's close to impossible to completely ignore). You have so many more people out there supporting your decision and praying only good things for your family. I like to remind myself when things like this get me down that the negative reaction is out of your control. You are doing what you know is best for your family and no decision like this (no matter who you are) will ever be met with 100% approval. So I obviously need to work on getting to the point if I ever comment anywhere again... I just really hope you can lean on or focus on all the loving and supporting comments rather than those so few negative comment ones. Praying for an amazing trip and success for your family!
    Emily

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  24. pjlitchfield6/15/11, 4:21 PM

    WHAT?!? you bought chocolate!  i thought you were poor :)
    people are just crazy out there.  delet is a good tool to have.  dont you have someone that can moderate the "hate"?

    i cant wait til you guys all pack up and go!  make sure to put up tons of posts along the way!  i need at least 1 a day :)

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  25. pjlitchfield6/15/11, 4:26 PM

    yeah!  everything she said :)

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  26. I am sorry for the hurtful words. I am glad for you recovery as I know how long it takes to get over months of unemployment. I would love to see how you manage to fit your brood in your truck and trailer. I hope that you will share your adventure with us. I live in the Washington State and would love to have you visit our many wonders found here.

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  27. Super precious post, and once again- Best wishes, good health, happy days to you and your family!!!

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  28. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 5:43 PM

    love this Melanie! Thank you... for it all! We are all the same deep down.

    We'll be in northern Michigan... near Traverse City. Is that close?

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  29. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 5:45 PM

    Well I'm glad you said something today. :) I am thankful for every word. 

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  30. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 5:45 PM

    Thanks! I know you know....

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  31. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 5:46 PM

    hee-hee!

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  32. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 5:47 PM

    Thank you Emily! It's so true... the positive far outweigh the negative! The power of the tongue goes both ways. :)

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  33. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 5:47 PM

    Thanks! :)

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  34. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 5:48 PM

    Thanks Shelly! I hope we make it down your way sometime... 

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  35. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 5:48 PM

    That's a great quote... thanks for sharing!

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  36. What has brought me back to read your blog is the transition that you have made over the last few years. The acceptance of what God has placed in front of you and made the best of it. Lessons of patience, of love, of endurance and the love of cold weather!  Your parents should be very proud of their daughter and son-in-law.
    Beckie in Brentwood, TN

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  37. brittanyclaire6/15/11, 6:45 PM

    That was very sweet becky...God knew I needed the extra encouragement today. :)

    I meant to reply after you replied back about the tornados...glad to hear you were all safe. My in-laws survived but their beautiful forrest didn't. So sad to see all the devastation.

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  38. aw, such a sweet hubby! he's a keeper if he brings you chocolate. ;)

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  39. I think maybe you did.

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  40. My dear Brittany, I've been reading your blog for three years and I have love watching your family grow and evolve through the years. As someone who has and is going through extremely tough financial circumstances, I truly admire how you have handled everything and I'm SUPER happy that God is blessing your family.  I would want to reach through cyperspace and poke some eyes, but you've handled yourself with grace :).  I hope you have a marvelous time (some of my BEST memories as a kid involve crazy road trips) and I really think you should consider coming to Montana...Because it's awesome. 

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  41. I LOVE you blog and really enjoy all that you share!  We do a lot of the same things you do in regard to food and family life and it is encouraging to read your blog!  I make almost all the recipes you post (trying the granola next week!) and pass on the things that I learn (baby food to soy chit-chat).  We have also ordered the study on character traits for families.  Thank you for your giving.

    I feel bad that people are leaving unkind comments so I thought I would help balance it out! :)
    ps. I am also looking forward to hearing about your adventures!  We have 5 children and would love to have an opportunity to experience that adventure!  Are you coming to Ontario?! :)

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  42. Love, love, love your blog and so do many, many, many readers.  We love reading cause you are honest, real and you write about YOUR blessed life.  Don't change for anyone. xx

    I have always wanted to live on a farm and enjoy the serenity....but I can't imagine all that hard work and relying on the unpredictability of weather.  Farmers are an amazing kind of people! 

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  43. brittanyclaire6/16/11, 6:13 PM

    Thank you....being honest and real is the only way. :)

    And you are very right about farmers... I had no idea how much hard work and dedication it took until I found myself married to one. Hee-hee


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  44. brittanyclaire6/17/11, 11:06 AM

    Hee-hee... The girls didn't say anything on their own about wanting to be back in the rv...but they do like it. :)

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  45. I have enjoyed your journey - as my life has evolved, I am finding similarities.  I started homeschooling when you did because I felt called to it (and got lots of comments similar to yours), added a 4rth baby to the mix (3 boys - 9, 6, and 3; the last is a girl), use cloth diapers and have lots of slings, and have a bigger garden than house.  No matter the topic I have enjoyed your posts.  Don't let them get to you.  Have faith.  I look forward to your adventures as you travel.

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  46. That makes me sad :( I read several of the ugly comments. It broke my heart.  I can't imagine how people can be so heartless.   I was hoping that it wouldn't bother you, but how could it not? It bothered me!  Anyway, I'm so excited for you guys.  I'm not always good with words.  I wished I knew better what to say...sorry, lol.  You are beautiful inside and out and are a wonderful roll model to so many women.  Oh, and if Alabama is on your list, check out our local park and campgrounds. ;) http://noccfalls.homestead.com/

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  47. Amy AKA TigerMommie6/18/11, 8:43 AM

    Oh my, I can't remember the last time I commented!......but I have been trying to keep up, which has been hard with this spunky little (now) 8 month old......I haven't blogged near enough lately, but I do have some current pics on my blog if you want to see TigerGirl!....

    When I woke up this morning, I was thinking of you.....and want to make sure you remember that you are a very humble and genuine person.....People say hateful things sometimes, usually too many times.....but remember that it almost certainly isn't about you...strange as that may sound.  Most of the time, what comes out of someone's mouth (or type!) has more to do about them than the hurtful things they say about you.
    You and your blog do not cause people to question your integrity....it's pretty clear that you are who you appear to be.......Keep your head up....Stand in your truth....

    I have some other thoughts that I'd love to discuss by way of email!....as soon as I have a moment to use both hands...lol.....
    Take a deep breath (I need to do that more myself!)......and live!......I look forward to reading about your travels!  And I'd so love to see pics of your home on wheels!....

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  48. Elizabeth Mulligan6/18/11, 5:27 PM

    Hey there Brittany...I donated money to your family a few years ago & i'm thrilled for you guys right now. The whole POINT of donating was to hold your hand for a few days while you guys got your lives on track... right? So you've done that now & good for you, it's in the past & you don't have to explain yourself to anyone x 

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  49. brittanyclaire6/18/11, 5:50 PM

    Thank you... As someone who gave to our family it is wonderful to know that you share in our excitement. We will never forget the love you all shared with us in a time of need.

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Thank you for blessing me with your words!

Brittany