Thankful Thursday - End of 2009

Wow, the end of 2009 already. I can scarcely believe it. Some days I've tiptoed through and through other's I've frolicked and skipped. There is much to look forward to in 2010. I just know it. I have hope. So here is my thankful list in review...

1. Thankful that overall the scale DID register a lower weight in 2009 than at the end of 2008. (Thankful that I'm hopeful I can budge it much lower in 2010)
2. Thankful that I am stepping out and building friendships--something that used to leave me feeling bruised and scared.
3. Thankful that I did not buy a new van in 2009. Seriously!!! The 2011 model is way hot!!!! I can wait.
4. Thankful that my family has been relatively healthy.
5. Thankful that I have been able to find joy in things on a smaller scale.
6. Thankful for a new job that has given me room to grow and relief from a lot of strife.
7. Thankful that everyone of my children have told me at least 10 times how much they love their lives.
8. Thankful that my family has never had to experience the pit of hunger. That God has given us a bounty overflowing.
9. Thankful for the roof over our head's.
10. Thankful that God is bigger that I could ever dream to be.

Happy New Year's to you all. May you enjoy a year fully of rich blessings, extreme health, and joyous surprises.

Christmas In Review - Part 1 (and 2)

I have a big family and we all live relatively close. As in most of us in the same state. So does "the law". So we have multiple Christmases. I love it. My family was supposed to get together last Saturday but we had the biggest snowstorm we've seen in years so not everyone was able to make it--those that live in England and those that could not walk to my house that is.

My big sis made the decision to come in a night earlier. She and her family ended up driving in snow anyway but got to my house safely just in time for everyone to tuck themselves neatly into bed. On Saturday we began cooking because my little brother and his family, at that point, were still coming so there were mouths to feed. Half hour before dinner was to begin he called to say the snow was just too bad. We totally understood. He's the father of a precious little girl and babies A and B. No way we want him risking any lives.

We had a meal prepared so we went ahead with a partial opening of gifts and then sprawled out on couches to chat and rest. It was a good day.

Sunday little bro and his family came over as well as my niece and her hubby. More feasting and present opening ensued and my energetic nieces and my brothers shuffled the kids outside for a girls against boys snowball fight. Ah. THAT was a very nice thing to do.

We cooked a lot, ate a lot and visited a lot. The thing that sticks out most is that I had a very nice relaxed visit with my big sister and her family. It seems that most times when I see her it's in a rush. This was the first time in many years when one of us hasn't been rushing off to get some place else by a certain time.

Maybe that is what a good snowstorm is for. One of those events God created to force us to slow down. Oh, I'm sure there were others that were inconvenienced by the snow event. We certainly had to alter our plans. But the benefits, in my opinion, far outweighed trouble.

Thankful Thursday

Ah, Christmas Eve so exciting. Settled in for the night after enjoying a beautiful Candlelight Service. I would love to be further snuggled in my bed but my husband has decided to set it up as his wrapping station. Man o man he has GOT to get his priorities straight--and mine.

Nonetheless still MUCH to be thankful for.

1. Joy in giving. I can truly say that I had fun doing it this year. There was no grumbling.
2. For this!!! By way of my big sister who spoils me rotten! Let the baking begin!!!

1. For peace. Being experienced right now in my house.
   
2. Convenience food that saves me so many times. Like when all I can think of is shopping lists.
3. Successful hip surgery for my dad.
   
4. That the rain held off for tonight's service.
5. Company. It gives me the feeling that my house is useful.
6. Sisters
7. Brothers
8. Kids, who make Christmas morning so joyful
   

Thankful Thursday

Oh the countdown is far from started and things are falling into place. I know I will awake on January 2nd and wonder, "Where did the holidays go?" No matter. They'll be back again before I can blink. On with my thanks...

1. A girls' night out with my sweet lil lady. (Library and dinner--just us!!)
2. The sweet gift of a free appetizer which brought our dinner bill to a mere TEN dollars!--Thank you very much Cody
3. For several fresh movies FREE from the public library. Ones I have NOT yet viewed. (Could come in real handy as they are calling for snow once again)
4. Cushy sneakers. Vanity trapped my bunion-ized feet in heeled black boots most of the week. How refreshing to switch over to mile-a-minute sneakers with a soft soft landing.
5. Ready-made fancy cookies--very handy when you remember the morning of that you are supposed to provide a plate of them for THAT day and you can't possibly be at work AND at home to bake them at the same time.
6. Great teachers. May they reap their just rewards.
7. Kitchen passes--if you've been following me you know how I stress over dinner.
8. Plenty. No matter what you name I'll say I have it. I can not think of one single thing I don't have that I absolutely NEED right now. (Wants don't count)
9. Great friends. Oh how different each are and oh how God places one after the other in my life at the time I need that particular friend the most. (Stay tuned for the post where I talk about the friend who thanked me for being me. ME! JUST ME!)
10. For air cold enough to warrant mittens this morning thus cushioning a worse outcome of a smashed finger in the car door. It was green most of the day, now a bit purple. VERY THANKFUL that I was able to open the locked door before it fully closed! Yoweeee.

So thank you God for saving me
and letting me live so happily.
You sent your son to a dark dark world
and in doing so saved this old girl.
(and many others too)

Wordless Wednesday - Bleak Bliss

Life is simple, its just not easy. ~Author Unknown

I'm having one of those days where the minute I walked in the house it seemed that utter chaos was reeking havoc on my calm. I'm not sure why. I wasn't stressed when I got home. I had run two rather quick (total of less that 15 minutes) errands. One being the Post Office--I was the ONLY one in line. See what I mean? No reason for stress.

However the "family" had different ideas. "She looked at me." "I did not." "I can't do my homework--you need to help me." "What's for dinner, I'm hungry?" "Is that pizza any good?" "6 minus zero is 5." ??????

?????

????!!!!!!

!!!!!!!

So I am currently in time out. Why? Because I'm tired of looking like the ogre in this house. I can't take it anymore. I can NOT do it all. Can you? If you can tell me how. We are friends right? You aren't reading just to humor me right?

So, even though I feel guilty as sin right now I am holed up in the bedroom. I have a few Christmas cards longing for a handwritten note to be tucked inside. (If your's isn't one of them it isn't because I love you less honest. It's because we FB or actually communicate in person).

Nonetheless I am going to finish these cards and affix stamps to them. I'm going to go to the bathroom (can't do that now because if they hear the toilet flush they will determine my location and my peace will be lost--I sure hope my bladder forgives me). I am going to find some comforting music and get back into the mood that my family deserves from me no matter how I feel. Why? Because that is what is expected of me. By my Savior. He provides for me AND my family even when I am a big fat meanie. So I need to do my best to walk in that light. Can I get an amen? Or at least a hoorah!? Because if there was any time I needed you cheering me in my corner it's right now. I'd do it for you if you asked I promise you that.

Now then, I have cards to write. And a costume to finish, and cookies to bake, and ... and...

Thankful Thursday

The work week is rolling to a close and I'm tired. Doesn't matter though because I have lots of stuff to be thankful for!

1. The beautiful snow we had over the weekend. It was lovely and entertained the kids so nicely.
2. A job that has a nice variety of tasks. I love doing different things. It keeps the boredom at bay.
3. Convenience food. Although I do feel a bit guilty that I haven't cooked too many meals this week. Late days will do that to you.
4. Reduced gas prices! 10 cents cheaper than last week!
5. Winter coats to shield my family from the cold. I had a long walk to my car today and had removed my jacket once there. When I had to step outside to pump gas a bit later I realized just how cccccc-old it is out there.
   
6. Generous children. It's been so neat to watch them get excited about getting their siblings Christmas presents.
7. Sleep. Have I said that before? Seems I have. I crave it. Sooo thankful for it.
8. Cordless phones. Especially when you have to make a call and are sitting snuggly under a warm computer and would rather have it BROUGHT to you. No comments about my laziness please-I'm already feeling guilty enough about that.
9. Patience. Something I was able to practice on Monday when the future pilot shut down on me without warning and could not be consoled. I got on my haunches to get eye level and he leaned into me and I fell over. Right. In. The. Middle. Of. The. Christian Bookstore. Oh if that wasn't a sight. We went to the car and I played 40 questions in askance for the reason for his mood, with ever answer being, 'no' until I asked, "Do you want me to sit in that seat next to you and hold you?" To which he replied with a nod. 30 minutes later he was ready to move on. Thank you Jesus ever so much for slowing me down when I'm in the rush of things. Especially since I know the snuggles of my growing future pilot are numbered.
10. That "the Law" is NOT working eve shift this weekend. Hallelujah praise you God. Some normalcy.

Thank you God for another winner of a week. I love You.

Wordles Wednesday - I Finally Spilled The Beans

Lights!

Armed with things we really like...
We admired this guy upon a bike.
Brightly lit mids threw off their hats,
A red crustacean thought he was one cool cat.
A big cuddly bear bid a gigantic hi,
and an airplane headed for the sky.

For the third straight year the future pilot slept through the entire thing. I suppose the drive is just too much for him. The airplane was a new addition this year too. Oh well. Maybe we'll make it out that way again before it ends.

Two (or more) For Tea

What an exciting day! I sucked up my "what if's" and attended our Ladies Tea with the ladies at my church. I don't get out much and I should. I've said that before. Even less do I invest in good fellowship with the abundantly rich souls that can be found right in my very own church community. I have my reasons. None of them good. They all begin with "what if" but we'll save that topic for another day.

Today, I didn't let anything stop me. What excuse did I have? The ladies ministry offered free childcare! I didn't even let the threat of snow convince me that it was a "sign" not to go. I went. I met ladies I've walked by for years yet never truly held a conversation with. Oh and no, giving baby instructions (or taking them) does not count.

In a beautiful city. In a quaint little tavern. On a rainy day. How better to converse then over tea?
Not wanting to impose on those in the party I didn't do any photo snapping until the waitstaff was cleaning up.
I can vouch that the place was decorated very festively.
And the walk back to the car was enjoyable and scenic.
And that silly old snow, though frosting my windows, didn't pick up too heavy until I was home.

Thank you to to all of you who made this day possible. I had a great time and can't wait until we meet again.

Thankful Thursday Friday

Sorry for being so lame and not posting this on it's appointed day. Yesterday was quite a busy day. Filled with gratitude for it though (and for the cyber break).

1. Public libraries and patience to keep going back and following around my favorite lil girl in the world while she "finds" her place there.
   "Mom, do they have non-fiction books here?"
   "Yes. What exactly do you want to read about?"
   "Um. Hmm. I don't know. Hmm."
   "Start with this...person place or thing."
   "Thing."
   "What KIND of thing?"
   "Um, cookbooks?" (found 'em, next?) "What about fish?"
   We came home with a books about bats, and gorillas. Go figure. God bless the book
   selection though. We are getting there.
   
   Oh and both kids (I picked for the future pilot since he stayed home with "the-Law") got books by Saxton Freymann and Joost Elffers. If you haven't seen these books yet you MUST. Ingenious illustrations! (You can check out some of the art work here http://morarwen.multiply.com/photos/album/1/Saxton_Freymanns_Food_Art)
2. Soothing Christmas lights. The tree is up and it is beautiful. The lights are twinkly and pleasing
3. Children who, though rambunctious, share good times together
4. My favorite first born, who promises me he is going to roll up his sleeves and help me get the basement converted into a workout area and place for the kids to go wild without harming themselves (padded cells come to mind--for me...)
5. Eggs! LOVE 'em
6. Patient husbands who, when their frustrated wives throw in the cooking towel now and then, muster up and grab a bowl of cereal
7. Mints. Not as much as gum mind you but, well, when you can't have gum...
8. Sleep. People this is soooo under-rated!
9. i-Pods. A device which allows you to finally here your children sing without them tell you to stop listening. Is it me or do kids just think you can't hear them because THEY can't hear them?
10. Warm fuzzy pj's (they go especially nice with a steaming cup of coffee) Mmmmmmm

I know some of these may sound a bit frivolous but I am thankful for them. It is the little things sometimes. It truly is.


Thank you Jesus for providing for us!

Wordless Wednesday - Next Year's Tree

The Long Short Road

I am no longer allowed to chew gum. Yep, the dental hygienist said yesterday I'm killing my teeth and jaws. I kind of think it will be worse if I don't chew. There will be nothing between my teeth and the grind. Oh well. I have to suck it up and be a good sport. Why?

Because this little guy...

This sweet lil boy...
has been told he has to give up his thumb. Yesterday. And he's doing it!

He's a man boy of great logic. I didn't argue with him, brow-beat him or bribe him. I didn't even lecture him. In fact he saw past his sorrow with enough compassion to tell ME he was sorry that I had to give up gum. He asked me WHY it was again he had to give up his thumb and I calmly explained that it would push his teeth in a position that wasn't natural. He then came up with a few different things he could try instead of sucking his thumb. Thank God for Blanky and Pooh. Thank God for the logical future pilot.

Today's lesson. Never underestimate the mind of a child.

I've Lost My Christmas Spirit

I know. It's only November 30 and here I sit feeling like I wish it was January. I have lost my spirit before it has had a chance to really break out. Here are my reasons. And yea, I realize this is breaking my 30 days of delightful aka positive posts. Sorry. Count me among the humans.

1) I don't feel like buying this year. Seriously. My kids do not need one more single thing that comes packaged in pretty paper and pretty ribbons. (And I seriously do NOT want to be stepping over, around, and ON them for the next 18 years)

2) Shopping for my husband is a nightmare because a)he buys what he wants when he wants it thus leaving me nothing to buy and b)no matter how much I try to wow him I never wow him and he always goes overboard thus making me feel very guilty.

3) I do the tree sans my husband. He wants no part of it. I find that seriously depressing. I opened my big mouth about 5 seconds too late tonight when he was entering "the building" from walking the dog. Just in time to hear me tell the kids, "I HATE doing this because your dad NEVER wants to help." Talk about a foot in the mouth. His response? "I don't do it because it's ALWAYS like this!" Do you think he meant like this?
I honestly think the doing it myself "for the kids" is just a bit overwhelming honey. That's all. Really.

My favorite first born son managed to take a few shots that seemed a bit more festive (thank you good son for lugging up all the boxes from the basement for us)
and though I felt like this must of the time...
I tried really hard not to crank on the kids for refusing to stand up and "spread" the ornaments around a bit.
In spite of it all the tree is up.
and it's over. It has to be all good from here right?

The truth of the matter is that I haven't lost Christmas. Because Christmas isn't about a tree and it's branches being spread just so. It's ornaments adorned perfectly. It isn't even about me and my family doing something together wholly. It's about God sending His Son for me. And for you. And no earthly thing can take the place of what Christmas is all about. So as I stood there and admired the tree I took in the cheerfulness heard in my excited childrens' voices. I paused for a moment and remembered that childlike joy and though I long for it, I know much better presents await me in heaven where perfection and wholeness abound. And then oh praises I will have my joy.

Sunday Beautiful Sunday

Today was a good day. Church in the morning with absolutely NO yelling or fighting between my kids or my kids and I. Woot.

A trip to Walgreens to buy some essentials (b-day card, plastic wrap, tape, etc). No fights!!! Woot woot!

Home again home again jiggity jig. ZERO TV until after 6:30 pm when "the Law" arrived home. I actually found some books that belonged to my favorite first born son that are proving to be enjoyed by my favorite lil girl in the world! If you are trying desperately to keep your children from the ridiculous Goose Bumps and other Vampire, Werewolf, etc. subjects that they don't really need to be feeding on maybe give these authors a try. Fred E. Katz. He has a series called "Spine Chillers". They are suspenseful and maybe a tad spooky but on a spiritual level demonstrate Christian character. Paul McCusker. Adventures in Odyssey series. Sooo happy that I could find these books packed away. Maybe holding onto some things is a good thing.

Here's hoping you had an extra beautiful Sunday.

Saturday Snippets

My day started at 7am. It's when the Advil wore off and left my right shoulder blade feeling like it was wrenched in two and my arm numb. I don't like the discomfort but I fear if not for pain I would lie in bed all day some days being lazy.

We had things to do today. Gifts to get to be delivered tomorrow through our church and grocery shopping. We had a short time line because we had a super cool invite to make Christmas centerpieces in the afternoon.

I was her former babysitter as a teen. She and her husband took turns teaching me to drive and she taught me to parallel park in the parking lot just hours before I took my test. She's been in my life for years. I love her. Every year since I first had a home to call my own she's been making me Christmas centerpieces. She's been making them for a LOT of people. This year she decided to have a party and teach us how to make our own. It was awesome.

She provided the greens, ribbon, oasis, container, and candle. She offered her talent in the form of instruction. She gave us tips and such to make them perfect and personal. It was such an awesome idea. I actually got to spend time in her company and not the hustle and bustle of gift drop off/pick up. I'll cherish it.

I was nervous because "the Law" was working today and my precious mama has prayer meeting on Saturdays. I could not imagine how I'd keep the complaints of the little people to a minimum. Oh how God works things out.


See?

The future pilot was very patient for a couple of hours. Then he found a buddy. All was well.

There were a lot of productive hands working...

And in the end we brought two home.

My favorite little girl in the world is created this one...

And here is mine.


What a fun day.

Chillin'

Black Friday. On this day a lot of folks bolted off to the stores to catch great deals and fight crowds. I'm pooped. I took the day to recover from lack of sleep and a long day of visiting and eating.

It was nice to just spend the day resting. The kids were well behaved--maybe they are exhausted too. It is now 7:44pm and they seem to have gotten a wind. No matter, "the Law" is home from work now so I have an ally if they get out of control.

Tomorrow I will be heading out to a friend's to put together a centerpiece for our Christmas table. She is so very talented and instead of making the many she usually does, has decided to share her gift of know-how with us. It should be a lot of fun.

I have a few more days before I have to go back to work. It's time for more lists and a few good books. Nothing too strenuous or stressful. Nope. Just a little bit of kicking back before the next flurry of holiday activity picks up.

Special note to my unexpected overnight guests: Thank you so much for staying. It was a special treat for all of us. And to my sis-in-law who came over this morning with the happiest little girl on the planet and baby A. Hugs to you. What a heartwarming Friday you made it.

Thankful Thanksgiving

Reminding you to cherish what really matters. It's not the food, or how it's prepared. It's cherishing those you are with and being thankful for the blessings you've been given.

1. My home
2. My family both far and near
   
3. A good and stable job
4. Christian teachers
5. Everyone who is a positive influence to my children
6. Christian women who show me by example how to love my husband
7. For the chance to host Thanksgiving for my extended family. (Even though we will be minus our England crew--if you are reading know that you are missed!!!)
   
8. That my father will eventually have relief from the pain that has plagued him far too long
9. Rest

Thank you heavenly Father for another wonderful year. May You not be forgotten amidst the frenzy of this holiday season.

Can Things Get Any Easier?

I was diligent. I worked hard. I took baby steps. And took them often. I organized and planned and didn't stress. I planned simplicity and it worked! As the night draws to a close my kitchen floor is mopped--and no my mommy didn't do it for me this time. I did it all by myself. On my hands and knees. Every inch as well as the hall and bathroom. It's the only way a floor should be cleaned if you ask me. Mops just tend to push all the clumpy stuff you miss with the broom into the corners to become fossilized "things" to be found later by some teeny toddler.

As I was on my hands and knees scraping something blue off the floor my little brother, the father to baby A and baby B, phoned. He was looking for a turkey. I told him I was taken. I told him mine was defrosting in the fridge. He was stoked. He very cheerily said, "I need it! Can I have it? I want to cook it!" Psssh. Who was I to argue? After all the theme this year is simplicity! So after I finished the floor and fed the family I carted Mr. Turkey Lurkey over to his house. He promises me it will taste just like the turkey legs at Hershey Park. I. Can't. Wait. Yum!

Oh and I got to steal a few baby snuggles while there. Those guys are just too precious. Their big sister played with the future pilot. Those two are becoming great pals. I'm loving it.

So, I get to go to bed early tonight. No turkey to brine. I discovered I have not one but TWO packages of prepared pie crust so the pies will be a cinch tomorrow. I prefer them warm so I really would rather make them tomorrow.

My to do list for the morning? Is delightfully shorter. Oh I have so much to be thankful for.

Winding Down

With the dilemma of whether to use paper plates or china out of the way things are falling into place. I'm anxiously awaiting the cooking frenzy that will begin tomorrow night. Pies, glorious pies. I'm trying a new one this year. A pumpkin rum pie. It will be in addition to traditional pumpkin and cherry pies. I'll give a review. Let you know if I'm left to choke it down myself or sulking because they ate it all.

I'm at a loss for words. Seriously. I'm drained. I took a little down time and actually watched a TV movie while I folded laundry this evening. That wasn't the brightest idea since it was a bit sad and my eyes are burning with that, 'we're gonna be so swollen you can't apply your make-up correctly in the morning' feeling. I'm dreading it to. I tell myself over and over again NOT to do that if I have to be seen in public the next day. Somehow I just keep watching and crying.

Tomorrow's post won't be as lame. I mean I think I can do better. Maybe. If I can see through the pie filling and flour dust.

Oh, and the china dilemma? Mix and match. My wonderful mama is bringing half of her's. They'll match nicely with the same silver rim and slightly different pattern. Did I ever tell you I love my mama?

Counting Down

It is Monday, late, which means I only have two more days to get ready for the Thanksgiving feast at my house. I've hosted before so I'm no newbie. My usual drawback is procrastinating. I feel relatively at peace right now. You see I'm trying a different approach this time--oh and my kids are older and not attached to my chest. That definitely makes things easier--especially when you have things to remove from the oven.

Delight: Aside from vacuuming and maybe pulling down the valances to wash them the house is relatively clean right now. Oh wait, I need to scrub the kitchen floor and lay down the new rugs.

Dilemma: I was certain I had china settings for 16 but discovered only this evening that it's only for 8. That's what happens when you pack china away for 14 years and never use it. You I forget important details like that. What to do what to do?

Delight: I got to take care of Baby A and Baby B. Sorry, no pictures. I was too busy kissing their sweet pumpkin heads and staring at their laughing little mouths. (Proof it has been far too long since I'd seen them--laughing was new!)

Dilemma: I'm dog tired and ready for bed but I gotta post. I promised.

Delight: The house is peaceful and the kids and hubby didn't subject me to watching the Star Trek movie with them.

Delight: I'm giddy and happy. Babies, expected company, and a clean house do that for me.

Sunday Snippets

Exhaustion has set in and I'm resting in great hopes that I get my sixth wind. I still have a lot to do around here before Thursday. Bear with me while I throw a few random things out. I hope to be more exciting tomorrow.

---

Future pilot (as he peeing in the upstairs bathroom): "Mommy I coughed and a fart came out!!!"
Me (as I listen to the handyman just steps away giggle): "Who needs the comedy channel when you've got kids."
Handyman (still laughing): "Out of the mouth of babes."

---

Note from my favorite lil girl in the world this morning. JUST because I patiently took her breakfast order and presented her with coffee.
"Thank you Mom, for being nice to me this morning!" (kind of makes me wonder if I'm not real nice the "other" mornings)

---

Newly spackled walls. (Casualties of the new china cabinet which forced the time pieces out of their former location)
---

Thing are coming together around here. Feeling that sixth wind. Off to tackle the three bags of clipped recipes. Stay tuned...

Productivity At It's Finest

Does anyone else ever notice that once you get one sort of mess cleaned up another follows? I got almost all of the dishes that were hogging prime counter real estate last night washed and put away tonight but then this happened.

I DID actually get the shoe boxes prepared for church tomorrow. Hopefully they will MAKE it to church. Unlike in recent years past where they were packed up and forgotten.


And the painters come tomorrow. To paint the bathroom. And this...
I was able to get all of the green crayon off (and yes my children should be WELL past that stage.) So painters + wall to paint =

this counter to empty. Does anyone out there hear me whimpering?

Don't tell my minister mother but I had a shot of cream sherry moments ago. It didn't help. Though I secretly wished it would. In fact can anyone out there confirm the possibility that I could be diabetic? I kid you not one sip and I was already woozy. That didn't stop me so I drank the rest. Seriously. A shot glass. Just half of one. I'm not feeling stable. I'm sure it has nothing to do with the work I've got ahead of me before those painters arrive tomorrow at 9am sharp. I should be living it up but the kids are past out and I'm trying to figure out how I'm going to get them upstairs to bed alone. But hey...

I made my post with 6 minutes to spare. G'nite all. ZZZZZZZZZZZ

Everything In It's Place

A simply sagging box of china was one of many things that have made me realize I don't take care of things nearly as much as I should. I poured over online pictures of china cabinets for days. Thinking, "If I get one I can rescue that Fiesta Ware I inherited from Grandpa and free up two boxes worth of china in the coat closet!"

So I unboxed the china.

I washed it.

I sorted it.

And then realized that I don't trust glass shelves.

So I stowed a few pieces of china in the drawer.

And the rest here...


and then I closed it up. And it was good.

and then when I came home from work today and asked my mama how she liked it she said she loved it. And then said, "Where is the rest of it?"

Apparently I didn't remember having MORE of this but she did.

and here is it ...
Now.

Just what.

Am I going to do with it?

Thankful Thursday

Count your blessings one by one,
Listing them is so much fun.

Seriously. I feel like I'm on a high right now and not just because of the upcoming holidays. Some kind of bug has gotten into me and I am feeling motivated. It comes in spurts for me so I gotta roll with it when I can. That bathroom is prepped for painting and I have cleaned and dusted the room that will house the new china cabinet. Exciting no?!

1. T-shirt covered brooms that make dusting high places so much easier
2. Vacuums that really suck--no REALLY
3. Snail mail. That isn't junk mail but actual letters from people you know and love
4. Pre-formed cookie dough that came just in time for my kids' dessert last night(and mine--YUM)
5. Active kids that keep me moving (especially after consuming cookies)
   
6. Laptop computers
7. God's hands--and the pure pleasure of realizing how smoothly things go when I really place him in full control
8. A good pastor with a gentle spirit and genuine concern for God's people
9. Sunshine--especially after so much rain
10. LISTS!!!! I'd be lost without them (well maybe not but they sure seem to keep me focused)

Thank you God for your everyday hand in my life and the life of my family. Your will be done Lord. Your will.

I Want.

I want one of these...

really bad. I've wanted one for several years but am too cheap to buy it. I've never owned a stand mixer in my life because I can't justify it. I just can't. I price them and just feel like I'm being totally materialistic. I have a hand mixer that I never use because it's so weak that it smells like an electrical fire is about the break out when it has to deal with anything other than runny cake batter. So. Instead. I want. And mix by hand.

I want...
and actually had one of these on order. Thankfully the dealership made me wait just long enough to realize that now isn't the time. So I want.

I want...
but alas again I can not will not justify the cost. I've challenged myself to become debt free. Until then my budget isn't going to be eaten up or ebbed away in buying things that I can do without. So no more things until the things that are already here are put away neatly. No more things until I can pay outright cash for them and know exactly what purpose they will have and for how long. So things need to stay out of my way. Or they are going to be crushed when I step right over top of them and say, "Poo poo to you. I've got a budget to do."

"So, you think you can take me?"

It was a phrase that was part of a harmless skit between my oldest son and I that we'd practice while puffing up our muscles at each other. It seems like only yesterday that we'd go through that. We'd act all tough to each other. Each of us so sure we could "take" the other if we were to try.

Today? I'm pretty sure I would lose. Oh don't get me wrong. I will never have to find out. My oldest, my favorite first born, has the kindest gentlest spirit of anyone I know. But...

He's been working out. He's decided he needs to beef up a bit and he's been lifting and running. Sometimes I get home from work and see him just finishing up. A few times I've longed to run with him. Today I came home and he was running again. I ran upstairs and threw off the work duds and donned the necessary attire. Complete with an Under Armour knock-off shirt, fleece vest, and a cute (not) little head band thingy. I tried to sneak out behind him and join in but I got out there too late. When I acted all crushed and begged him to go a while longer he did. So now I know.

He CAN take me!!! I ran two laps around our property. Eight acres in all. He's never measured the distance so I don't know how far that is but he hung in with me for two jog laps and one walk lap and this was AFTER his already 9 laps! After two I was spewing and now over an hour later I still feel on the brink of an asthma attack, my throat hurts when I breathe in, and I start coughing. He. Can. Take Me.

Accomplished

At the end of the day it sure feels good when your 'to do' list has more checks than 'deferred'. That is how it was for me today.

Here was my 'to do' list.

1. Load of laundry
2. Get kids up and dressed
3. Get kids off to school
   
4. Go to get vehicle inspection (This was waylaid a bit because the kids insisted we take Dora with us to school. How could I object? We are trying to take her fear of car rides away.)
5. Get shoe rack, and "stuff" basket
6. Pick up two Christmas gifts
7. Get the future pilot from pre-school
8. Get paint
9. Call handy-man and schedule some work around the house
10. Order china cabinet (Yea that might not make since considering I spent last night's post talking about being happy with what you have but I discovered a sagging box of heirloom china in the basement this weekend and it's time to put them on display in an appreciative way--because I do cherish them)
11. Upgrade phone (we are at least a year overdue and the back of mine keeps falling off. That battery gets hot)
    
12. Fold laundry
13. Take clothes to consignment
14. Take items to Goodwill
    

So, 14 tasks. Want to guess how many I got completed today? 11. E-L-E-V-E-N! I feel good. I feel VERY good actually. I still have time to fold the laundry--Hey! It could happen. I just know my priorities and right now it's posting!

Hope your day left you feeling accomplished.

Sprucin' Up

The sun shone today. It was magnificent. It has been raining for days here. A day of rain here and there isn't too bad but I think after a while the lack of natural Vitamin D tends to make a body feel run down and tired.

I didn't really spend a lot of time out of doors. From the house to the car. From the car to a building and then to the car again. But not having to dodge rain drops was wonderful--not to mention bliss for my hair, which has been a frizzy mess.

Yesterday, I was in my cleaning mode. I emptied our coat closet. I kid you not I have not done that even once since we moved into this house over eight years ago. I found partial bags of teeny tiny diapers and swimmies. A nightgown sized much too large for me that I meant to return. I placed that order back in the fall of '01. My my.

I didn't feel so much like cleaning today so I didn't. There was church and then a few errands with the kids. I didn't make a list and the haircut visit tapped my energy level so after that was over I picked up a few groceries and we went home. I'm not sure if it's the upcoming holiday or just that there were so many days of rain which left me restless but I have a surge of ideas that has hit and I'm excited. Which is a very good thing.

"The Law" has been wanting to move us eight hours away from where we are now. To another state that neither of us has ever lived in. At the time he mentioned it I had a job I hated. I had this idea that if we moved I wouldn't have to work. I also have gotten pretty close to some of his relatives. They are sweet sweet people. A few bad turns on property deals and the fact that I have transferred to a job that leaves me feeling accomplished pretty much on a daily basis has caused me to think maybe I don't want to go.

When we planned this house and moved in I was certain we'd live her until our children booted us into assisted living facilities. I thought I'd sit on our front porch and rock as traffic rolled by. Then the house started falling apart. Leaks, peeling paint, rotting wood, etc. It kind of left a bad taste in our mouths. Like we needed to start over. So that also made it easier to think moving was a nice viable option.

And now we are in a recession. I look around and we are safe. For now we have jobs. Food is on the table without worry. Our vehicles run and we aren't concerned about being stranded. Oh don't get me wrong I coveted a new van. A shiny new one that didn't have french fry encrusted carpets or the aroma of a 3 year old white mocha. And then it hit me that my van runs fine. That I don't know what the future holds. And that it's time to start taking better care of the things God has blessed me with.

So instead of living like this house isn't going to be our's forever I'm going to live like it is. And maybe just maybe we will.

GDO

"The Law" granted me a blissful day out with my favorite little girl in the world. She didn't get a birthday party this year because my niece got married on her birthday and we were just too busy around that day. My daughter was not in the least upset. SHE was in the wedding and she and her cousins celebrated with root beer floats as they prepared for the wedding.

In lieu of a party she chose a friend to accompany her to Build-A-Bear Workshop and have lunch at the Cheesecake Factory. It was a beautiful day. Oh maybe I should mention that I happen to be very good friends with her friend's mother so it was a win win situation for all of us.

9am - Pick up and lecture from friend's mom's mom to "behave ourselves" -- What a downer (just kidding!!)
920am - Dunkin Donuts for coffee. Coffee + cream + sugar - Energy (nevermind what it does to the behind)
930am - THE MALL!!! We walked around and enjoyed the quiet. Something we won't see again now that we've seen our first signs of Christmas (stay tuned)

1015am - The hug test. Is my creation stuffed enough?


1030am - Time to groom our new friends


Who cares what time?am - Laughter, laughter, laughter--it does the body good. I'm blessed to have friends like her


and then this guy showed up...
Yep. Santa!!!! Then we panicked and immediately began shrieking through the mall in a wide-spread panic because we just KNEW we weren't going to have all the shopping done, trimmings hung and Christmas cards sent before December 25th.

Just kidding.

I hope your day was every bit as splenderific as mine.

Sesame Streets 40th Anniversary

This week Sesame Street celebrated their 40th anniversary. Google honored them with several logo's decorated with Sesame Street characters. I for one am pretty happy they are around. Jim Henson was a ingenious with his knack for relating to kids through puppetry. In his honor and that of Sesame Street a few of my all time favorites.

Beaker meets banana...



Swedish Chef a la hot sauce...



Manamana...

Thankful Thursday

Yippeeeee! My favorite posting day! The day reserved for thanking God for specific things he's done for me.

1. A relaxing dinner out with great friends.
2. A mom who threw together a totally new recipe for me so my family could eat without me. Find it here Cheater's Chicken and Dumplings.
3. A productive week at work.
4. The feeling of peace given my decision to wait on purchasing a new vehicle.
5. Another visit from the laundry fairy. She is going to get a big tip this time. Phenomenal service!!
6. Libraries. Hey, I know you can't drink coffee in them or talk on your cell phone but they let you take the books home for FREEE!
7. Encouraging friends who talk you out of car payments. (You know who you are!!!)
8. Re-connections with people far back in your past that turn out positive.
9. My kids. Each of them. For the ways they touch my life.

and lastly for my wonderful husband who didn't so much as frown when I mentioned dinner out today with my peeps.


Thank you God. Big and small YOU do it all.

Day One- Again

I fell off the wagon again. This has got to be like the one thousandth time. Dieting has never come easy to me. Self-control? I'm surprised I know how to spell it. I'm not sure when it happened this time. Maybe it was a party where I had just one more sliver of this or that. Maybe it was a rainy day curled up with a good book. Maybe it was that full-on take of the kids' Halloween candy. No wait, it was quite a while before that. So today I started over--again. I'm grumpy, I'm hungry, my mouth is empty. But it doesn't matter because I get another chance to start over.

I don't really have a solid plan right now. I have set a healthy calorie limit using a calculator found at EatingWell. Right now I'm going to concentrate on journaling what I eat. I found free journal log pages at WebMD. You don't even have to sign up for anything. They just let you in. For free. I'm not going to count fat. Though I AM going to try NOT to live on unhealthy snacks. So that's it. Starting over.

Isn't it good that we can start over when we mess up? My dieting woes are much like my walk with the Savior. It doesn't matter how hard I pray in the morning that I will be a good servant and walk with Him as if He is watching always (and He is) I almost always do one or several things that are not becoming of the Christ I crave to portray.

Lately there's a new pebble causing discomfort for me. My pondering of the day touched on it last night. I don't feel like I am there for people. I think I let my human side, my pride, get in the way of so many friendships. I find myself too afraid to invite people over because I feel like my house is never clean enough. I put other things in front of visiting people who's company I crave because there is always just one more load of laundry to be done, one more errand to run, one more task that needs to be accomplished. I've unopened so many doors to great friendships being scared that something else will suffer. Afraid that something won't go right. Afraid that the "real" me will not be the someone they thought I was. I've hermatized myself to the point of real fear. So along with working on my weight I'm going to work on putting other people first. And who knows? Maybe if I spend more time cultivating friendships I'll spend less time wondering what I could be eating.

Wednesday Snippets

Peace is...

• knowing where your children are when you lay down your head at night
• getting through the check-out line knowing you have plenty to cover the bill
• being able to hear a ticking clock when you don't have to care what time it is
  

Conversations to wreck ya:

1. Me to my daughter: Don't kick your brother. Future pilot to me: She ALWAYS does that. I want to call the cops EVERY time.
2. Me to the future pilot: Help me find something that begins with the letter "I". Future pilot: I'm using my nose vision.
3. Future pilot to me: Why do we keep having days and days?
4. Me to the future pilot: You're my little snuggle buddy. Future pilot back to me: Your my big girl.
   

Pondering of the day: Why is it all of my greatest ideas seem to stay in my head or talked out of my mouth but never actually make it to an action? Must work on this one--big time.

Mondays

I think I've said it before. Mondays are the days I stay home and pretend I'm a stay at home mommy. Although I'm not quite sure it's a fair shot at being a stay at home mommy. Here was my schedule today:

630 - Woke up 2 hours later than I do on my work days
700 - Showered and dressed
740 - Gave the almost always up on her own daughter a wake-up call
745 - Woke up the future pilot and dressed him for school
800 - Carried the future pilot downstairs, dosed him with medicine to keep the dribbly nose at bay, offered instant breakfast (he refused), brushed his hair, teeth and ordered him to get his shoes on
810 - Shoe'd daughter back upstairs to change out of her shorts into jeans
812 - Brushed daughter's hair and listened to her snort in disdain for NOT being allowed to wear shorts
815 - Reminded daughter I could not take her to school because I had to take the car to the repair shop
817 - Consoled a disheveled daughter who was dangerously close to missing the bus and promised her that I would be home before her bus came so at least I could see her HOME from school
822 - Hollered up to hubby that he'd have to find a way to take daughter to school because she has now missed the bus
825 - Wiped daughter's tears and gave her an extra kiss
826 - Headed out the door with the future pilot and arrived to school 8 minutes late, without his backpack

and THAT was just my morning. Tell me SAHM's, is it just because I'm an amateur? Or is this par for the course?

Sunday in Pictures

Drive
drive
drive
Or walk.
Rooftop...
with a view.