After a great night of celebrating Grant's birthday with our family (pics will come later this week), our Monday wasn't quite what I expected it to be. There was fever, vomit and lots of laundry. I spent the afternoon at the doctor's office with a very sick baby and a sure case of strep. Bless his heart, can't he catch a break? He got his first penicillan shot today and spent most of the day asleep in my arms. Now that he's asleep in his crib, perhaps I can get to the things I gladly set aside today to rock and hold a dear baby. Although I'm behind on my "to do list", it was wonderful spending the day offering comfort, holding and loving a little one. This is just the type of day I know I'll miss years from now.
As I rocked, rubbed my baby's soft hair and quietly sang, I meditated on this verse. Oh, how I love it. I had the joy of the perfect mental image of how our Heavenly Father cares and comforts us.
"The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17
I pray that if your heart is anxious, or if you feel like you need an extra dose of TLC, that you will allow the Lord to comfort you. I pray you will sense the peace that passes all understanding that He delights in you, quiets you with his love and rejoices over you. We all need to remember how loved and treasured with are in His sight.
Showing posts with label thinking and talking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label thinking and talking. Show all posts
Monday, November 7, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Snow and Grace
{{{Thoughts from a recent entry in my journal, dated February 10, 2011.}}}
What a lovely morning! There is snow outside and the house is peaceful. Big kids are off to school and Grant is snoring softly across the room, still in his carseat. I have a warm cup of coffee right here and a napkin with snickerdoodles I made last night for Wes. I found my favorite winter music and it's playing now -- Winterscapes by the London Symphony Orchestra. It's a Hallmark CD and I've no idea where I got it, but I've had it for years. I remember listening to it during snow while in Seattle.
In fact, it's seems like that night in January 2001 was a turning point, an eye-opening night for me. I loved having this music to comfort me as I was there alone. Amazing how music has a way of transporting you to another place. Years ago.
But I remember those gold mugs I had and I'm sure I had hot chocolate or something like that that night. Those long blinds that opened to my sweet little patio with the beginnings of a potted herb garden. I grew not much more than thyme then. That burgundy, pink and green love seat. Tapestry. That huge framed print over my tiny mantle with the pretty girls -- it matched that love seat perfectly. Where is that print now? Who knows? Funny how something huge like a framed picture is missing but a tiny CD in a cardboard case is right in its place. It's what has taken me on this rabbit trail of thoughts. I still love the music, though! The first song "Snowbound" is my very favorite. I've been skipping through the CD and yes, #1 is the best song.
Looking out my window this morning is different than looking out onto that little patio ten years ago. Today I see my life. Hope. Love. Creativity. Acceptance. Growth. Experience. Joy. Ten years ago, I was in such a different place. There was definitely joy because of my relationship with Jesus. But other things crowded my thoughts, squeezing the joy into a tiny corner. Doubt. Questions. Homesickness. Lonliness. Desire to be creative. Seeking abundance. Wishing for true acceptance.
Looking back, I see such a changed girl. I was hurting, but didn't even realize I was. I wanted more, but didn't know what I wanted or where I wanted it. Scanning the ten years in between, I can easily identify such grace lovingly covering me by my heavenly Father. There is no doubt in my mind that while I was sorting through all the natural transitions of my twenties, God was holding me tightly in his sweet grip of grace. I continued to seek Him and His direction and ten years later, the descriptions of what I see and feel on a lovely snow day are miles apart from what they once were. Ten years from now -- twenty years from now-- when my little girl is sorting out her position in life, my sincerest prayer is that she would sense the sweet hand of her Father guiding her in his grace. Amazing. His grace is amazing.
What a lovely morning! There is snow outside and the house is peaceful. Big kids are off to school and Grant is snoring softly across the room, still in his carseat. I have a warm cup of coffee right here and a napkin with snickerdoodles I made last night for Wes. I found my favorite winter music and it's playing now -- Winterscapes by the London Symphony Orchestra. It's a Hallmark CD and I've no idea where I got it, but I've had it for years. I remember listening to it during snow while in Seattle.
In fact, it's seems like that night in January 2001 was a turning point, an eye-opening night for me. I loved having this music to comfort me as I was there alone. Amazing how music has a way of transporting you to another place. Years ago.
But I remember those gold mugs I had and I'm sure I had hot chocolate or something like that that night. Those long blinds that opened to my sweet little patio with the beginnings of a potted herb garden. I grew not much more than thyme then. That burgundy, pink and green love seat. Tapestry. That huge framed print over my tiny mantle with the pretty girls -- it matched that love seat perfectly. Where is that print now? Who knows? Funny how something huge like a framed picture is missing but a tiny CD in a cardboard case is right in its place. It's what has taken me on this rabbit trail of thoughts. I still love the music, though! The first song "Snowbound" is my very favorite. I've been skipping through the CD and yes, #1 is the best song.
Looking out my window this morning is different than looking out onto that little patio ten years ago. Today I see my life. Hope. Love. Creativity. Acceptance. Growth. Experience. Joy. Ten years ago, I was in such a different place. There was definitely joy because of my relationship with Jesus. But other things crowded my thoughts, squeezing the joy into a tiny corner. Doubt. Questions. Homesickness. Lonliness. Desire to be creative. Seeking abundance. Wishing for true acceptance.
Looking back, I see such a changed girl. I was hurting, but didn't even realize I was. I wanted more, but didn't know what I wanted or where I wanted it. Scanning the ten years in between, I can easily identify such grace lovingly covering me by my heavenly Father. There is no doubt in my mind that while I was sorting through all the natural transitions of my twenties, God was holding me tightly in his sweet grip of grace. I continued to seek Him and His direction and ten years later, the descriptions of what I see and feel on a lovely snow day are miles apart from what they once were. Ten years from now -- twenty years from now-- when my little girl is sorting out her position in life, my sincerest prayer is that she would sense the sweet hand of her Father guiding her in his grace. Amazing. His grace is amazing.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
A Lesson on Being Still
"Be still and know that I am God."
Psalm 46:10
Be still. Still. Be. Still. Be still. Each time I write it, it looks more and more strange. Wrong. Almost as strange and wrong as it feels to actually be still. In today's society, so much emphasis (and recognition!) is placed on going and doing and accomplishing...fill in the blank. So to be still in contrary to what has been taught and reinforced since childhood.
Throw in motherhood and the concept of being still is nearly impossible. Nevermind more than one child who constantly "needs" something -- a milk refill, a shoe tied, a light turned on, a kleenex, a blanket, a bandaid, a hug, a snack, help buckling a seatbelt, help finding Buzz, no not that Buzz, the other Buzz, help writing numbers, help catching a ladybug. There are so many "needs" to tend to on a daily basis, 24 hours a day!
But what do they really need? How can their mommy really meet their needs? By being still. Showing them how to be still. And know God. To "be still and know that I am God."
Yes, I still have to meet their physical need, but more importantly, I need to show a living example of how to be still. Balance. Settle down. Set limits. Establish healthy boundaries. Quiet. Calm. Order. Peace.
"Be still and know that I am God." Be still. Be. Still. This is my charge. I believe that God has placed my physical limitations on my life so that I will slow down and be still. This verse is brought to mind each day, throughout the day, and I believe without a doubt that God is at work through it. Be still. Carly, be still. Know me. Know that I am God. I am your God.
God is teaching me a big lesson now. I don't want to miss it. So, I am choosing to stop. To listen. To settle. To be quiet. To find balance. To be still. Be. Still.
"Be still and know that I am God." -- Psalm 46:10
Friday, October 29, 2010
some favorite things
the quiet of my house with only faint Praise Baby music playing from the kids' rooms and a snoring dog on the couch.
a sweet girl's smiling face saying "thank you" when i gave her an english muffin and strawberry smoothie this morning.
an energetic boy dressed as buzz lightyear re-enacting all buzz's actions he remembers from his trip to disneyworld.
a helpful husband who folded a load of laundry for me last night.
my last free day where kids are gone until 2pm until . . .
Friday, October 22, 2010
I Think It's Time
. . . to bring the blog back. It's been funny, I've gotten several emails from people to "invite me" to your blog, thinking that I was still posting. It just made me laugh, knowing people checked in or even missed it at all! I took it private a while back just so I could let myself off the hook. I was going through a funk, feeling a little too vulnerable. That happens sometimes and is completely acceptable, I've since convinced myself. It's been a nice break, but I think I'm ready to post again.
Recently, I have been thinking in terms of "blog posts". I have lots of pictures, our pumpkin party last weekend, new nursery pictures, projects I've been working on and other things I think might be fun.
So, here we go. New and refreshed. You're welcome to leave a comment and let me know you're here!
Recently, I have been thinking in terms of "blog posts". I have lots of pictures, our pumpkin party last weekend, new nursery pictures, projects I've been working on and other things I think might be fun.
So, here we go. New and refreshed. You're welcome to leave a comment and let me know you're here!
Friday, January 15, 2010
Movie Night and Homemade Bread
Tonight was movie night at my house. I ran into Blockbuster today with Jordan Ann to pick out ONE movie. Came out with two, one for each child. She was convinced we needed to get The Wiggles and surprise Jack with it. (I have no idea where she gets the desire to get surprises for people!) And of course, the second she saw Disney Princess Follow Your Dreams, she just has to choose that one for herself.
So after supper, we got into our pajamas, spread out sleeping bags, put on the movie and ate marshmallows. (I took several pictures to document the fun event, but don't have Wes's computer to upload them, I'm on Windows 98, remember? I'll get them soon, though.)
After I put them to bed, promptly at 7:15 and 7:25, I sat down with a new knitting project and to watch Julie & Julia. It was one I wanted to see in the theater, but never got around to it. It wasn't what I was expecting, but still pretty good. I loved the scenery, especially in France.
As I sat and knitted, I started thinking about what my next undertaking would be. I'm thinking about bread. I want to learn to make homemade bread. The healthy, whole grain type that I can give my children for breakfast and lunch. Personally, I can do with or without bread, but others in my house need it for everyday survival. And as much as we power through loaves of bread around here, it might be helpful financially, too. So we'll see. Something I will continue thinking about.
Do you bake bread? If so, do you think I would be able to do it? I'm a little intimidated by it. Especially the packets of yeast and letting it rise part. Do you have a recipe you would share? Let me know.
Wishing you a nice weekend...
So after supper, we got into our pajamas, spread out sleeping bags, put on the movie and ate marshmallows. (I took several pictures to document the fun event, but don't have Wes's computer to upload them, I'm on Windows 98, remember? I'll get them soon, though.)
After I put them to bed, promptly at 7:15 and 7:25, I sat down with a new knitting project and to watch Julie & Julia. It was one I wanted to see in the theater, but never got around to it. It wasn't what I was expecting, but still pretty good. I loved the scenery, especially in France.
As I sat and knitted, I started thinking about what my next undertaking would be. I'm thinking about bread. I want to learn to make homemade bread. The healthy, whole grain type that I can give my children for breakfast and lunch. Personally, I can do with or without bread, but others in my house need it for everyday survival. And as much as we power through loaves of bread around here, it might be helpful financially, too. So we'll see. Something I will continue thinking about.
Do you bake bread? If so, do you think I would be able to do it? I'm a little intimidated by it. Especially the packets of yeast and letting it rise part. Do you have a recipe you would share? Let me know.
Wishing you a nice weekend...
Monday, January 4, 2010
Monday, 1/4/10
After a very disappointing realization last night that preschool starts back on Tuesday, instead of Monday, like I was preparing for, it turned out to be a good thing.
First of all, JA has been yucky, coughy, puny all day. Her pediatrician called in some cough medicine with codene (yay!) so hopefully she will be better after her long nap.
Second, it's snowing! Seriously, I think my children have seen as much snow in their short lifetimes as I have in mine. It's not normal to snow this often in Mississippi. Granted, it not accumulating much (although our slide in the backyard is completely covered), it's still exciting to sit inside and watch.
I'm making deer meat chili for supper and if JA feels like it, we can bake cookies. Oh, I hope she feels like it! :)
Which brings me to my resolutions for 2010. I am working on my list. I hope to finish them and perhaps include them here one day later this week. I think I need to do that so I'll stick to them, you know what I mean?
What are you up to on this crazy cold day?
First of all, JA has been yucky, coughy, puny all day. Her pediatrician called in some cough medicine with codene (yay!) so hopefully she will be better after her long nap.
Second, it's snowing! Seriously, I think my children have seen as much snow in their short lifetimes as I have in mine. It's not normal to snow this often in Mississippi. Granted, it not accumulating much (although our slide in the backyard is completely covered), it's still exciting to sit inside and watch.
I'm making deer meat chili for supper and if JA feels like it, we can bake cookies. Oh, I hope she feels like it! :)
Which brings me to my resolutions for 2010. I am working on my list. I hope to finish them and perhaps include them here one day later this week. I think I need to do that so I'll stick to them, you know what I mean?
What are you up to on this crazy cold day?
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Is the Grass Really Greener?
I recently toured my husband's new office space. What a lucky guy - the building is gorgeous, the offices are big enough, colors are nice, and on and on. And while he talks about having to get adjusted to "where his printer is" and "how far away the copier is", I think he's doing just fine.
So while he was showing me around, I had some serious flashbacks to all the offices that I have worked in prior to the one in which I am currently employed, 17 Cherry Tree Lane*. All of a sudden, I began questioning my choice to stay at home. It was incredibly bittersweet.
Sometimes I desperately miss the working world. The responsiblity. The sense of accomplishment. Setting and surpassing goals. Perseverance. Writing. Helping clients meet goals. Creative thinking. Strategic thinking. Many aspects of that world are no longer part of my life.
Or are they?
They're still here. Just in a different form.
For example. The responsiblity. Boy, do I have that now. I have two little lives that look to me for everything. And the sense of accomplishment that I might not always do it perfect, but I'm really good at being everything for them right now, with direction from the good and perfect Father, of course.
Teaching manners and each of the fruits of the Spirit requires much perseverance. Plus, I need to exemplify them in my own life, without fail. I never want to be a "do-as-I-say, not-as-I-do" mother.
Never in my life have I had to be more creative and strategic than I have when working with these two. I mean, how can you not be strategic when you plan two daily routines, train them to eat and nap at the same times and then bathe, read and put to bed, often on your own?
When it comes to disciplining my two year old son, I've had to call upon every creative bone in my body. Resorting to thumping him when he's out of line, to telling him that "Mr. Grocery Store" or "Mr. Walmart" is going to find us when it's acting up in public. Discipline and consistency is tough. It's one of the hardest parts of the job.
Which brings me back to the posh office spaces of my husband. He has someone to come vacuum his office, dust his bookshelves, scrub whichever toilet he uses. I do not. He has a choice of assistants to help him finish his tasks, compile his projects and see to it that calls are returned. I do not.
But he doesn't have the real pleasure of watching two children learn something new every day. He doesn't get to take them for a lunch picnic in the park, watch them run to catch falling leaves, and swing on their bellies. He walks into a household that isn't necessarily spic-n-span like his new office is, but there's laughter and joyful sounds the second he walks in. And if not, tears are easily settled with loving reassurance and often a princess or spiderman bandaid, whether or not blood is involved.
Would I trade this for a sleek office, staplers and sticky notes, a convenient commute or personal account?
Not in a minute. But I really enjoyed the tour. It provided me with the hard, cold reality that life isn't always greener. I'm perfectly content in the grass I'm laying in now.
* Just in case you're not in the Disney loop, 17 Cherry Tree Lane is the address in Mary Poppins, one of our favorites.
So while he was showing me around, I had some serious flashbacks to all the offices that I have worked in prior to the one in which I am currently employed, 17 Cherry Tree Lane*. All of a sudden, I began questioning my choice to stay at home. It was incredibly bittersweet.
Sometimes I desperately miss the working world. The responsiblity. The sense of accomplishment. Setting and surpassing goals. Perseverance. Writing. Helping clients meet goals. Creative thinking. Strategic thinking. Many aspects of that world are no longer part of my life.
Or are they?
They're still here. Just in a different form.
For example. The responsiblity. Boy, do I have that now. I have two little lives that look to me for everything. And the sense of accomplishment that I might not always do it perfect, but I'm really good at being everything for them right now, with direction from the good and perfect Father, of course.
Teaching manners and each of the fruits of the Spirit requires much perseverance. Plus, I need to exemplify them in my own life, without fail. I never want to be a "do-as-I-say, not-as-I-do" mother.
Never in my life have I had to be more creative and strategic than I have when working with these two. I mean, how can you not be strategic when you plan two daily routines, train them to eat and nap at the same times and then bathe, read and put to bed, often on your own?
When it comes to disciplining my two year old son, I've had to call upon every creative bone in my body. Resorting to thumping him when he's out of line, to telling him that "Mr. Grocery Store" or "Mr. Walmart" is going to find us when it's acting up in public. Discipline and consistency is tough. It's one of the hardest parts of the job.
Which brings me back to the posh office spaces of my husband. He has someone to come vacuum his office, dust his bookshelves, scrub whichever toilet he uses. I do not. He has a choice of assistants to help him finish his tasks, compile his projects and see to it that calls are returned. I do not.
But he doesn't have the real pleasure of watching two children learn something new every day. He doesn't get to take them for a lunch picnic in the park, watch them run to catch falling leaves, and swing on their bellies. He walks into a household that isn't necessarily spic-n-span like his new office is, but there's laughter and joyful sounds the second he walks in. And if not, tears are easily settled with loving reassurance and often a princess or spiderman bandaid, whether or not blood is involved.
Would I trade this for a sleek office, staplers and sticky notes, a convenient commute or personal account?
Not in a minute. But I really enjoyed the tour. It provided me with the hard, cold reality that life isn't always greener. I'm perfectly content in the grass I'm laying in now.
* Just in case you're not in the Disney loop, 17 Cherry Tree Lane is the address in Mary Poppins, one of our favorites.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
When It Rains, It Pours
I've had writer's block. Actually, so much has been happening, I haven't taken time to sit down and update. I suppose the writer's block comes from the fact that I just haven't known how to say it all. So here it is, not fancied up, just to the point.
Let's begin at the top. About 10 days or so ago, Wes and his family had to put his grandfather in the hospital. Heart problems with advanced dementia. Difficult for everyone.
At the same time, I took a little test, got a positive and found out that I was pregnant. Wonderful news. I was just beside myself. This was a very planned and prayed for baby.
We began telling our family and friends about the baby news, hoping it would help alleviate much of the stress of the other situations going on. Plus we were just so excited and Wes and I are terrible with secrets.
Our family vacation was in the works, but then put on hold until we figured out the long-term issues with Wes's grandfather.
Within a couple of days, I began having trouble with the pregnancy. Ended up miscarrying.
Jack started running a fever. Went to the doctor. Swine flu. Nice. All the while, I'm still "miscarrying". Doctor wouldn't give JA any medicine because she wasn't showing symptoms yet.
Finally, my washing machine broke. Not life and death, but very inconvenient when thrown in with everything else going on.
But things are looking up. We ended up finding a fantastic deal on a new washer and dryer. Drove 2 1/2 hours on Sunday with the kids, ate at a nasty restaurant but then went for ice cream to make up for it, and brought our new front load appliances home in the rain on a trailer. All household laundry, done.
Jack's swine flu has been contained to just himself and hasn't been that bad. Just a fever for about 36 hours, a little cough and some runny nose. That's about it. Good news is that JA hasn't gotten anything and Wes and I are still well.
The miscarriage. If it's not in God's will, it's not right for me. I'm okay with it. Very disappointed, but it's just one of those things. Besides, God gave me a verse back in the summer and I've been meditating on it ever since. Romans 5:28 - "But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently." Isn't that the truth right now?
Grandad. He had other plans than staying in that hospital. He went to be with Jesus on Sunday night. Reunited with his wife and in a much better, peaceful place. The visitation for him is tomorrow and the funeral on Thursday. Will you pray for our family?
Whew! So that's where I've been. I hope things are going better where you are!
Let's begin at the top. About 10 days or so ago, Wes and his family had to put his grandfather in the hospital. Heart problems with advanced dementia. Difficult for everyone.
At the same time, I took a little test, got a positive and found out that I was pregnant. Wonderful news. I was just beside myself. This was a very planned and prayed for baby.
We began telling our family and friends about the baby news, hoping it would help alleviate much of the stress of the other situations going on. Plus we were just so excited and Wes and I are terrible with secrets.
Our family vacation was in the works, but then put on hold until we figured out the long-term issues with Wes's grandfather.
Within a couple of days, I began having trouble with the pregnancy. Ended up miscarrying.
Jack started running a fever. Went to the doctor. Swine flu. Nice. All the while, I'm still "miscarrying". Doctor wouldn't give JA any medicine because she wasn't showing symptoms yet.
Finally, my washing machine broke. Not life and death, but very inconvenient when thrown in with everything else going on.
But things are looking up. We ended up finding a fantastic deal on a new washer and dryer. Drove 2 1/2 hours on Sunday with the kids, ate at a nasty restaurant but then went for ice cream to make up for it, and brought our new front load appliances home in the rain on a trailer. All household laundry, done.
Jack's swine flu has been contained to just himself and hasn't been that bad. Just a fever for about 36 hours, a little cough and some runny nose. That's about it. Good news is that JA hasn't gotten anything and Wes and I are still well.
The miscarriage. If it's not in God's will, it's not right for me. I'm okay with it. Very disappointed, but it's just one of those things. Besides, God gave me a verse back in the summer and I've been meditating on it ever since. Romans 5:28 - "But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently." Isn't that the truth right now?
Grandad. He had other plans than staying in that hospital. He went to be with Jesus on Sunday night. Reunited with his wife and in a much better, peaceful place. The visitation for him is tomorrow and the funeral on Thursday. Will you pray for our family?
Whew! So that's where I've been. I hope things are going better where you are!
Deuteronomy 31:8
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave or forsake you. Do not be discouraged."
Friday, June 26, 2009
a little randomness
I haven't posted all week. Obviously. I really haven't had much to discuss or document. It's been hot and we've been...well, just here.
This week:
- I've been exercising and the kids have been playing every single morning.
- I've cooked real dinners every single night.
- I have finished smocking another dress for JA.
- I'm caught up on laundry.
- My house is relatively clean.
- I've cleaned out and rearranged three kitchen cabinets and my big pantry.
- Jordan Ann and I have colored just about every single picture in her Strawberry Shortcake and My Little Pony coloring books.
- Jack has carried around three or four "mens" everywhere we have been.
With the exception of a few minor meltdowns and sessions in the "no no corner", it's been a wonderful week at our house.
Just to follow up on the potty training (as if you care, but I'm pretending you do). I'm almost embarrassed to admit how well it's going. It's been a breeze. Today's his second day of big boy underwear all day with no accidents. Except for naptime and nighttime, he's been dry. Can I tell you how much easier this has been than potty training JA? Two completely different children, to say the least.
We spent the afternoon yesterday outside playing in the water. I sat and watched my two children in an imaginary world of play. It was heavenly. Somehow Jordan Ann talked Jack into sitting in her lap in our "big red car". Then she drove him around, asking an imaginary lady about tickets and getting directions on where to park. There was so much discussion, thank you's and byebye's, I could hardly keep up with whether they were coming or going. Such fun play!
While they did their thing, I sat in the sun and took advantage of the sprinkler beach ball. It simultaneously kept me cool and watered my flowers. Plus, my toenails (OPI Don't Be Koi With Me, the very best summer color ever!) were the exact same color as the orange in the beach ball. I was very pleased.
About Michael Jackson. I've never really been a huge fan. But hearing the songs played on every single channel last night, I realized that his music is really a soundtrack for my life, in an unintentional and very odd sort of way. Thriller reminds me of first grade. That Pepsi commercial when his hair caught on fire was in fifth grade, I think. Black and White, that was junior high. The song and video with Lisa Marie? Oh, the memories from my freshman year of college. And, why do I remember this --- The interview of him in the red/pink shirt talking about how he was innocent from every allegation against him reminds me of one Saturday when I spent the day scrubbing tubs and toilets in the first house Wes and I lived in. He's made an impact no matter how you look at it.
Wes and I were commenting last night about the LACK of news on (we're very much news junkies around here!). I'm thinking that Jon and Kate must be thrilled that they're no longer making headlines anymore.
Which brings me to my next topic. That show. I'm so sad for that family. I have been watching the show since the beginning and feel like they are my friends, in a very stalkerish sort of way. I have noticed Jon wearing tshirts with scripture, and seen notecards taped to their kitchen cabinets with verses, almost like memory verses. What an opportunity they have! I was just hoping that this week's big announcement was going to be that their marriage was worth fighting for and that they would be turning off the cameras to focus on what was best for their children. It's my opinion that continuing on in the path they are going is NOT what's best for their kids, despite the hundreds of times they say it to themselves, each other and the cameras. I'm done watching them. And so sad for them.
And what's worse? That people will continue to tune into this train wreck of a show and ratings will continue to drive their decisions. I just wish they would turn their backs on the cash so that they can better the lives of those eight children in ways that matter.
So there you go. Bits of randomness for today.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
It's Potty Time
So now that we're home from our vacations, I can face the inevitable. It's time. I can't ignore it any longer, as much as I'm NOT ready for this.
It's time to potty train Jack. He's constantly asking to use the potty and he's usually right on. He's going before bathtime regularly and I've just been pretending it's not happening. Isn't he too young for this? Don't boys potty train later than girls? Didn't I just finish potty training Jordan Ann? Are you serious?
I've gotten him those thick training pants that I loved for JA and a set of the cutest tighty-whities. I just couldn't introduce him to Cars and Transformers via his underwear. And there's something weird to me about having Elmo on your britches. So plain ole tighty whities it was.
Here's my dilemma, though. And if you have potty-trained a second child, please leave a comment and let me know what to do here. JA is Jack's biggest encourager. She's right behind me like a little duckling helping me do everything for him when it comes to pottying. She thinks she needs a reward when he goes, too. So, do I need to share with her, too? It seems like the same concept as giving every child in the family a present on a sibling's birthday. And that has always seemed ridiculous to me. But I have to admit, I do feel bad about dishing out candy rewards (even if it IS just two smarties or two m&m minis) and constantly telling her she can't have any. Your thoughts?
I seriously can't believe it's time! It seems like just yesterday I was making bottles for this baby!
It's time to potty train Jack. He's constantly asking to use the potty and he's usually right on. He's going before bathtime regularly and I've just been pretending it's not happening. Isn't he too young for this? Don't boys potty train later than girls? Didn't I just finish potty training Jordan Ann? Are you serious?
I've gotten him those thick training pants that I loved for JA and a set of the cutest tighty-whities. I just couldn't introduce him to Cars and Transformers via his underwear. And there's something weird to me about having Elmo on your britches. So plain ole tighty whities it was.
Here's my dilemma, though. And if you have potty-trained a second child, please leave a comment and let me know what to do here. JA is Jack's biggest encourager. She's right behind me like a little duckling helping me do everything for him when it comes to pottying. She thinks she needs a reward when he goes, too. So, do I need to share with her, too? It seems like the same concept as giving every child in the family a present on a sibling's birthday. And that has always seemed ridiculous to me. But I have to admit, I do feel bad about dishing out candy rewards (even if it IS just two smarties or two m&m minis) and constantly telling her she can't have any. Your thoughts?
I seriously can't believe it's time! It seems like just yesterday I was making bottles for this baby!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Things to Remember About This Trip
2. There ARE people who are sporting Kate's "porcupine" hairdo. I promise, I saw it with my own two eyes. I nearly fainted.
3. Don't try to be supermom and plan to take pics of your children swimming, forget and end up with the CAMERA swimming in two inches of water at the bottom of the pool bag. Broken. On the first day of the trip.*
4. Do try to take as many pictures as possible of all the landscaping (on the first day!) so that next spring, you can copy their flower bed and hanging basket combinations.
5. Bring twice as many drink boxes as you think you will need because mommy and daddy will want to drink them, too.
6. If travelling with two little ones, plan on not getting much nighttime sleep. Sleeping in one room = hard-to-settle for everyone.
7. Relax. Relax and enjoy all the simple things about family vacations. Such as climbing trees. Watching the fountains from our windows. Quacking at ducks. Sliding together down the waterslides. Reading stories with two babies in my lap at bedtime.
8. Take time to see vacations through your children's eyes and at their speed. It would be ridiculous to think you could linger over dinner and use linen napkins instead of scarfing down a $40 entree and mopping up with wet wipes.
9. Room service for breakfast beats the breakfast buffet every single time. Plus, when you take it out onto the balcony on a beach towel blanket, it's a wonderful breakfast picnic.
* Seriously. The camera is gone. The only way I have these pictures was because the card INSIDE the camera was not damaged and I used my parent's camera to download to my computer. Take pity on me and buy me a new camera. Please.
Monday, June 8, 2009
You Get What You Pay For
Consider this a fair warning. I feel like it's my civic duty to fill you in on this.
Tonight we had what was called a "snick-snack-snupper" when I was a child. Daddy's not home for supper and mommy doesn't really want to cook. So a frozen pizza it was. My children typically eat pizza with no problems and it was a dollar something at Walmart this morning. (Just call me el cheapo.)
At our regular dinnertime, Jack alerts me with constant whining. The child has an alarm strapped to him for every mealtime everyday. I knew they would both be hungry.
I popped in the pizza and 15 minutes later, voila. Supper.
I got out my cute pizza cutter and made adorable triangles for their plates. After I burned the fingerprints off my thumb and first finger, I thought it would be a good idea to cut Jack's up in little pieces. Jordan Ann requested full triangles.
Add some fruit and a cup of milk and I was feeling pretty proud of myself. Not the most wholesome, but sufficient.
I called them in to the table and they anxiously climbed into their chairs. I put their plates in front of them and Jordan Ann popped her thumb in her mouth and laid her head on the table. Jack ignored the pizza and put away the strawberries faster than you could say "strawberry."
"What is the big deal here?" I thought to myself. So, I tried a piece of it. Cardboard. Cardboard with nasty pizza sauce and cheese that resembled styrofoam, even cooked.
Neither of them would eat it. I couldn't blame them, though. It was terrible.
All the books say that if your kids don't eat what you put in front of them, don't give them another option. I stretched it a little on this one. I didn't want them to go to bed starving because I purchased a frozen pizza for a dollar something.
Yogurt for supper.
(I hope that doesn't make me a terrible mother. I'll try better tomorrow.)
And for future reference, don't buy frozen pizza for a dollar something, thinking you can take the easy way out and provide a fun meal for your children. Or if you do, be sure you get some yogurt, too.
Tonight we had what was called a "snick-snack-snupper" when I was a child. Daddy's not home for supper and mommy doesn't really want to cook. So a frozen pizza it was. My children typically eat pizza with no problems and it was a dollar something at Walmart this morning. (Just call me el cheapo.)
At our regular dinnertime, Jack alerts me with constant whining. The child has an alarm strapped to him for every mealtime everyday. I knew they would both be hungry.
I popped in the pizza and 15 minutes later, voila. Supper.
I got out my cute pizza cutter and made adorable triangles for their plates. After I burned the fingerprints off my thumb and first finger, I thought it would be a good idea to cut Jack's up in little pieces. Jordan Ann requested full triangles.
Add some fruit and a cup of milk and I was feeling pretty proud of myself. Not the most wholesome, but sufficient.
I called them in to the table and they anxiously climbed into their chairs. I put their plates in front of them and Jordan Ann popped her thumb in her mouth and laid her head on the table. Jack ignored the pizza and put away the strawberries faster than you could say "strawberry."
"What is the big deal here?" I thought to myself. So, I tried a piece of it. Cardboard. Cardboard with nasty pizza sauce and cheese that resembled styrofoam, even cooked.
Neither of them would eat it. I couldn't blame them, though. It was terrible.
All the books say that if your kids don't eat what you put in front of them, don't give them another option. I stretched it a little on this one. I didn't want them to go to bed starving because I purchased a frozen pizza for a dollar something.
Yogurt for supper.
(I hope that doesn't make me a terrible mother. I'll try better tomorrow.)
And for future reference, don't buy frozen pizza for a dollar something, thinking you can take the easy way out and provide a fun meal for your children. Or if you do, be sure you get some yogurt, too.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Stage Fright
I want to make a post, really I do. But I don't have much to say (or am I running low on energy and that's why I can't come up with anything?).
Oh, but she was cute.
Off to enjoy peace and quiet tonight and do a little smocking. (I'll post pictures soon, I'm working on my second dress!)
Oh, but she was cute.
Off to enjoy peace and quiet tonight and do a little smocking. (I'll post pictures soon, I'm working on my second dress!)
Thursday, April 16, 2009
A Sweet Morning In The Park
We went to the park this morning and we were the only ones there. Jordan Ann had requested to go to a specific park in town -- "the one by Gammy's house with the fire truck". (To the girls who usually go parking with us, you were missed. JA asked no less than 14 times where our friends were!)
But being there, just the three of us, was rather nice. It brought back memories of when JA was a baby and she and I LOOKED for places to go and things to do just us, because none of my friends nearby had babies yet.
It was a little chilly this morning and luckily I had jackets in the car (right next to the loose Cheerios and sippy cup with what used to be milk -- I know, nice!).
I was able to sit and watch them play, run, slide and hop around together as friends. When they needed a break, they came to me for a drink and handful of Apple Jacks. Then they quickly scampered off.
Even as I write this, I have tears in my eyes. I know that in they fastest blink of an eye, they won't be little anymore. They won't be calling out, "Watch me, momma!" every 45 seconds. Their legs will finally move as fast as their minds want them to and there will be no more clumsy falls.
Jordan Ann won't be wearing a white sweater buttoned at the top with a pink bow in her hair as big as her head. Jack's little New Balance tennis shoes will one day be bigger than my size 8 flip flops.
They will not be content running and playing, singing and laughing on a playground such as this.
Oh, but what joy and pleasure I have had today watching and listening as they tried climbing up the slide and laughed hysterically as they slid to the bottom.
And then that moment when I heard Jack say, "Hi 'Nan (which rhymes with "train") when she got to the top of the stairs where he was standing. She enthusiastically said, "Hi Jack" right back to him and put her arm around him for a sweet hug. Can I tell you that I almost lost it right there?
One of my prayers of many for their precious lives is that years from now they will share a very special bond of family and friendship just like they are showing me now as little children.
I realize that I have just rambled and shared random details for no other reason than to say:
But being there, just the three of us, was rather nice. It brought back memories of when JA was a baby and she and I LOOKED for places to go and things to do just us, because none of my friends nearby had babies yet.
It was a little chilly this morning and luckily I had jackets in the car (right next to the loose Cheerios and sippy cup with what used to be milk -- I know, nice!).
I was able to sit and watch them play, run, slide and hop around together as friends. When they needed a break, they came to me for a drink and handful of Apple Jacks. Then they quickly scampered off.
Even as I write this, I have tears in my eyes. I know that in they fastest blink of an eye, they won't be little anymore. They won't be calling out, "Watch me, momma!" every 45 seconds. Their legs will finally move as fast as their minds want them to and there will be no more clumsy falls.
Jordan Ann won't be wearing a white sweater buttoned at the top with a pink bow in her hair as big as her head. Jack's little New Balance tennis shoes will one day be bigger than my size 8 flip flops.
They will not be content running and playing, singing and laughing on a playground such as this.
Oh, but what joy and pleasure I have had today watching and listening as they tried climbing up the slide and laughed hysterically as they slid to the bottom.
And then that moment when I heard Jack say, "Hi 'Nan (which rhymes with "train") when she got to the top of the stairs where he was standing. She enthusiastically said, "Hi Jack" right back to him and put her arm around him for a sweet hug. Can I tell you that I almost lost it right there?
One of my prayers of many for their precious lives is that years from now they will share a very special bond of family and friendship just like they are showing me now as little children.
I realize that I have just rambled and shared random details for no other reason than to say:
I've had a full cup mommy moment with my children today.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
An Attitude of Gratitude
With so many thoughts running through my head, I'm not sure where to start. Do you ever get those feelings that there's so much to think about that it all seems fuzzy? Blurry? Hard to make out? That's where I am tonight.
So, I thought I would stop for a minute and write what I know to be true.
I'm so thankful. Thankful for so many things . . .
1. That I have a Heavenly Father that listens to my pleas, and answers my every call. I see that He is at work in my life daily. It's humbling and I'm honored to be one of His beloved children.
2. Everlasting life, paid in full at Calvary, many Easters ago.
3. The husband and children that are mine to care for. And the home that we create together as a family. I just love it.
4. And then there's the trivial, but still important things to be thankful for. Things like Easter meals planned for our family, with groceries already purchased. Baskets and goodies for the kids. Eggs in the fridge to boil and color with two wiggly and excited children.
5. New and challenging projects to keep my mind from simply melting into a heap of "mommy brain."
6. Birthdays and birthday parties for my children within the next month. (Be on the lookout for some train and cupcake party ideas!)
7. The joy of "child chatter." Hearing JA play in her imaginary world of princesses and pirates while Jack begins to string full sentences together brings me so much pleasure. I love listening to them play.
8. A quiet home filled with comfort and peace that only comes from our Father.
So, I thought I would stop for a minute and write what I know to be true.
I'm so thankful. Thankful for so many things . . .
1. That I have a Heavenly Father that listens to my pleas, and answers my every call. I see that He is at work in my life daily. It's humbling and I'm honored to be one of His beloved children.
2. Everlasting life, paid in full at Calvary, many Easters ago.
3. The husband and children that are mine to care for. And the home that we create together as a family. I just love it.
4. And then there's the trivial, but still important things to be thankful for. Things like Easter meals planned for our family, with groceries already purchased. Baskets and goodies for the kids. Eggs in the fridge to boil and color with two wiggly and excited children.
5. New and challenging projects to keep my mind from simply melting into a heap of "mommy brain."
6. Birthdays and birthday parties for my children within the next month. (Be on the lookout for some train and cupcake party ideas!)
7. The joy of "child chatter." Hearing JA play in her imaginary world of princesses and pirates while Jack begins to string full sentences together brings me so much pleasure. I love listening to them play.
8. A quiet home filled with comfort and peace that only comes from our Father.
Give thanks to the Lord. His love endures forever.
-- Psalm 107:1 --
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
7 lbs. and Cadbury Creme Eggs
Remember my post from my old blog about going to the doctor for a check up and getting the "heavy scale"? Yeah, well. How could I forget?
Today was a follow up. Just a regular appointment every three months (for those of you who don't know, I have rheumatoid arthritis.) Anyway, I was pleased that I wasn't put in that same room.
So, the results? Down 7 pounds! Hooray! I'm just trying to eat better, in moderation and drink lots of water. I think I've consumed more water in the last 4 months than I did the entire year before! This is a good thing.
That, plus the gym. I took a few days off because of snotty noses and bad coughs (who wants that in the kids' playroom?!) but I'm trying to get back on track now.
Let's just keep it up, right? I'm trying.
Today was a follow up. Just a regular appointment every three months (for those of you who don't know, I have rheumatoid arthritis.) Anyway, I was pleased that I wasn't put in that same room.
So, the results? Down 7 pounds! Hooray! I'm just trying to eat better, in moderation and drink lots of water. I think I've consumed more water in the last 4 months than I did the entire year before! This is a good thing.
That, plus the gym. I took a few days off because of snotty noses and bad coughs (who wants that in the kids' playroom?!) but I'm trying to get back on track now.
Let's just keep it up, right? I'm trying.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Hey There! Welcome!
Thank you for coming to visit at my new blog! I'm glad you're here. Pour a glass of tea or a cup of coffee and let's talk!
First, do you like the new look? I do! I couldn't be more pleased. And impressed with the wonderful girl who has patiently, cheerfully, and kindly guided me through this design process --- Bethany at Graham Cracker Crumbs. You have to see her blog and outstanding photography. You'll enjoy her perspective, for sure.
Second, all the old links are still here, although I updated their names based on the name of their blog rather than listing them as "so-and-so family" (unless that's the name of their blog). You'll also find a couple new links that I have found recently and think you might like, too.
So, on to the main reason for the big switch. I'm sure you're wondering. I would be.
I've been grappling with whether or not I should tell my "real" reasons for switching. I haven't wanted to offend or put anyone off, that's for sure. (And I hope you're not offended if you disagree and choose a different path for yourselves. Everyone is different.) But I've decided to share them now.
I have had a couple of people I love dearly come to me and suggest that I should reconsider all the detail and personal information I am sharing on my blog, specifically of my children. And the only reason is because of the many, many crazies out there who search blogs in order to gather detail to further prey on children. I just wouldn't be able to live with myself if something happened to my precious children because of information I willingly put out there. Oh, I can't think of anything worse. So, I'm pulling it back in.
If you have been a reader of my blog because of the photos and detail about my kids, you might not like the new and improved version. But, I hope you'll continue visiting. Because there are other changes, too.
I've been feeling like my posts are just "chatty cathy" without much substance. There's more to me and my home than just the sometimes trivial topics I've been writing about. So I'm changing it up, in an attempt to write "more about more".
But, I'm scared. (Just being honest.) I'm scared because it's been easy to just post pics of my kids, tell you about the fun things we do, places we go, or friends we see rather than really thinking and sharing perspective.
I can do better than that, though. I love writing. I always have. I love the feeling of clearing my head, getting it out on paper (or keyboard in this case!). I believe it gives my brain room to breathe. Now that I've put it out there, this blog and you are my accountability, encouraging me to think more. Write more. Breathe more. Enjoy more.
My heart's desire is for this to be a safe, special place to come, read, reflect, enjoy, and get inspiration. Friendly. Honest. Nurturing. Special. Loving. All those qualities I try to exude from our home, shared with you.
Thank you for visiting My Acre of Diamonds. I hope you'll return often.
First, do you like the new look? I do! I couldn't be more pleased. And impressed with the wonderful girl who has patiently, cheerfully, and kindly guided me through this design process --- Bethany at Graham Cracker Crumbs. You have to see her blog and outstanding photography. You'll enjoy her perspective, for sure.
Second, all the old links are still here, although I updated their names based on the name of their blog rather than listing them as "so-and-so family" (unless that's the name of their blog). You'll also find a couple new links that I have found recently and think you might like, too.
So, on to the main reason for the big switch. I'm sure you're wondering. I would be.
I've been grappling with whether or not I should tell my "real" reasons for switching. I haven't wanted to offend or put anyone off, that's for sure. (And I hope you're not offended if you disagree and choose a different path for yourselves. Everyone is different.) But I've decided to share them now.
I have had a couple of people I love dearly come to me and suggest that I should reconsider all the detail and personal information I am sharing on my blog, specifically of my children. And the only reason is because of the many, many crazies out there who search blogs in order to gather detail to further prey on children. I just wouldn't be able to live with myself if something happened to my precious children because of information I willingly put out there. Oh, I can't think of anything worse. So, I'm pulling it back in.
If you have been a reader of my blog because of the photos and detail about my kids, you might not like the new and improved version. But, I hope you'll continue visiting. Because there are other changes, too.
I've been feeling like my posts are just "chatty cathy" without much substance. There's more to me and my home than just the sometimes trivial topics I've been writing about. So I'm changing it up, in an attempt to write "more about more".
But, I'm scared. (Just being honest.) I'm scared because it's been easy to just post pics of my kids, tell you about the fun things we do, places we go, or friends we see rather than really thinking and sharing perspective.
I can do better than that, though. I love writing. I always have. I love the feeling of clearing my head, getting it out on paper (or keyboard in this case!). I believe it gives my brain room to breathe. Now that I've put it out there, this blog and you are my accountability, encouraging me to think more. Write more. Breathe more. Enjoy more.
My heart's desire is for this to be a safe, special place to come, read, reflect, enjoy, and get inspiration. Friendly. Honest. Nurturing. Special. Loving. All those qualities I try to exude from our home, shared with you.
Thank you for visiting My Acre of Diamonds. I hope you'll return often.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
