Who are we?

This is straight from the "About Us" page and while it may seem redundant to re-post it here, it works as a good intro for our family, especially as I re-launch the blog.

So, here's our story and mission:

Photo taken by Jennifer Wampler from jlw photography

He's from England, I'm from Alabama, and we make our home in the Ozarks.

My husband and I met in 1997, married in 1999, and have since been blessed with five children. We are both from cultures steeped in "tradition." Traditions aren't bad, but what we've found as we've grown as a family is that not all traditions are conducive to a unified family vision.

So, we've changed. A LOT!

In the beginning we endured several culture clashes, struggling to find a middle ground. But the more we struggled, the more we realized that these cultural traditions we once thought important, were not founded on Truth and mattered little to the Eternal.

While it can be said we've created a mixture of English/Southern traditions, we've grown much more than what can be seen on the surface. Yes, Andrew now enjoys participating each July 4th as he lights the fireworks that dazzle his children, and I've come to look forward to Guy Fawkes Night and seeing the weird joy emanate from my husband as he stokes the bonfire.

But there's a deeper change in our family compared to generations past--a Spiritual change. Choices we've made as a family: homeschooling, homemaking, embracing children as blessings instead of burdens or nuisances, etc., have come about as we broke from past ideals and forged new ones--creating a new culture.

Over the years I have been asked questions regarding homeschooling, working with special needs children (from developmental delays to the autism spectrum), natural parenting (Ecological/Responsive breastfeeding, pregnancy, birth, attachment parenting ), personal wellness (fitness, holistic nutrition, herbal helps), homemaking and general family life (bulk cooking, raising a large family on a budget and in a small home), and the blog became my go-to site.

I hope that I will provide a place where folks can come for information and inspiration. While I'm a busy wife and mama, I do read my e-mails and strive to answer them as quickly as possible. I'm by no means an expert but I hope I can pass along some wisdom, when able.