A First For Everything

There's a first for everything, right?? At least that's what "they" say.  Common emotions that go along with "firsts" are nervousness, joy, excitement, and fear.  We usually don't want to admit when we are afraid, but it's really OK and it really is normal.
Friday I will be leaving to attend my first Homeschool conference. All those emotions I listed..well..I'm experiencing them. I will be meeting online friends for the first time. This is exciting. This makes me nervous. I will be learning new things during the sessions and that brings me joy. Of course there is fear of the unknown. Yes..I've read hints and tips and what to expect at the conference. Which, by the way, is the Titus 2:1 Conference. But there is still the tiny bit of fear lurking at doing something for the first time. And. It. Is. OK. I know I'm going to be blessed. All those other emotions far exceed little ole fear. I'm thankful for that. I've been praying for and about this conference for a few weeks now. I'm blessed to have a praying husband too. He's prayed for me and the entire weekend as well. It is all in God's hands and I'm looking forward to what He has in store for me and all the other mamas there.

Gluten Free Easter Basket Cupcakes

I cannot remember where I saw the idea for these cupcakes, but I couldn't wait to try them for Easter.  These were definitely a special treat. Since I have committed to a healthier lifestyle, I've cut way back on my sugar intake.  Having these around really made the kids happy!!
I wanted these to be white cupcakes and I used the recipe found here. It is a gluten free recipe and is VERY delicious. I used plain white rice flour instead of Thai rice flour. They were so moist and flavorful.

I used canned icing simply for the convenience and Duncan Hines is labeled gluten free. The squeeze tube of green icing worked well for the "grass" on the top of the cupcakes.

I used vanilla and lemon icing..just to please everyone :).

Jelly beans and pipe cleaners finish off the cupcakes to make cute Easter baskets. My daughters enjoyed helping me decorate these.

Look at how moist and fluffy these babies are!! They really were a big hit in my home. I'm always thankful when I've made a gluten free dessert that my family loves.

What really matters...

We are coming up on the end of our third year of homeschooling.  It really doesn't seem like it. Some days I just wonder where the time went.  We really do love what we do and are very thankful to God for calling us to homeschool.

Not every day is wonderful. Not every day follows my lesson plans. Not every day ends with happy, smiling kids...nor does every day begin that way. There are difficult, stressful days. And you know what? That's OK! I'm finally beginning to accept that fact.


Most of our days go very well and I'm thankful for that. I love our flexibility..as long as there is some structure. I love the relationship building that is done while we're together. I love learning more about God and His ways together.
That's what really matters...God. It matters that we strive each day to bring honor and glory to Him. That we grow in His Word. I just want my children to totally depend on Him and trust Him in the big and in the small. We'll keep learning and loving together.