Nothing to really report. Busy today and tomorrow. I'm feeling very restless, nervous, tired, and emotional. I'm sure a lot of it is nerves due to playing the violin in a concert (it's been a while since I've been in a recital hall) but I'm feeling overwhelmed, nervous, and anxious. I feel like I talked too much, said the wrong things again, made people feel badly and can't shake it - even with the sunshine outside. I'm looking forward to some reflective time tonight at our Lenten prayer service after the dress rehearsal tonight. Maybe everything will be better after tomorrow night's performance. I hope so. I hate feeling out of control - even when I know I shouldn't feel this way and none of us are ever in control ("Hi God! It's me, ViolinMama") but I do. And the above doesn't make a lot of sense, but it is what is weighing down my heart.
We had our Captivating book discussion today, and the chapters we discussed talked about inner and outer beauty that comes from inner calm and peace. I wish I could channel some of that today. So, I'm not feeling that womanly beauty today. It would bless me, and bless others around me if I could. I feel like I'm faking the optimism, calm, and smiles today. *sigh*
I just got the baby down for her nap. Time to get Lovely in her room for quiet time, then I need to practice!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Walk and Listen - Day 29
How appropriate the sun is back out today after a week of rain...
Fast: After breakfast, take a walk. Leave the dishes, the routine, the things on your to-do list. Take everyone with you but tell them it’s a silent walk. See how long you can all just listen to the outdoors.
Pray: Set a timer to go off every hour today. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for the gift of your husband (or wife!).
Give: Do one of “his” chores today. Don’t tell him you did it.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
You are the WORLD to someone - Thoughts Day 28
I really love today's messages. I hope they help you too, no matter where you are in life. YOU are the world to someone. In the chaos, you are never alone, and in any crisis - reach out.
Fast: You are the world to your family. Be your best world for them and only them today.
Pray: Be still and know that God is with you. Right here, right now, in the mess and under the noise.
Give: When you face a motherly crisis, remember that way back on your wedding day God gave you all the graces you need to handle it. Claim them.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Did I mention the number 9??!!!
I did say I now have a NINE month old did I not? Well - let me just remind you all of how far we've come in 9 months....
My baby is growing up!!!!!
My amazing 9 month old. Still not crawling, or trying.....but very cute and alert as she takes in the world around her from her little bottom. No teeth yet!!! She went from baby coos to repetitive syllables on my birthday, and could roll from front to back around then too. Sitting up unassisted became more frequent in February after just starting post Christmas. She is 90% of the time a good sleeper, though the last month of illness messed with her record. I seem to recall Lovely being a much better sleeper, but I've pumped less with Baby Valiant, and we did co-sleeping the first 6 months. Every precious child is different (and I'm glad I don't have a paid job to wake up for this time around with the staggered sleep).
She's ALL smiles (most of the time), cooing, babbling, touching and feeling with her hands (not very oral though - all tactile touch), baby shrieks, this very unique gasping sound to get my attention in dramatic fashion, and JUST kind of started to raise her arms to you when wanting to be picked up. She has started to develop separation anxiety, and along with her sister (who makes her laugh like NO one else....a real baby belly laugh), I'm queen of her world.
I'm treasuring it now, because I know "Daddy's Girl" will come - Lovely has proven that phase comes. She, just like her sister, has made me proud to be a mother - and forever grateful. My heart is now outside my body, moving around in two small children. I never knew I could FEEL so much. And Baby Val here has truly reminded me how fast life goes by, and how PRECIOUS babyhood is. I mourn the ending of the tiny baby stage, but delight in the cuteness of the emerging personality. I miss the constant cuddling and cooing of a newborn, but love that now her love is a "choice" and she chooses to snuggle in, engages me in babble, gives me kisses, and shows she wants me near her. I think God eases us out of past stages with the excitement of new ones. It eases the pinch some. SOME.
Happy 9 Months my Blue Eyed, Curly Top Sweetheart. You are loved.
"Why I blog" and the "Friday Five!"
To preface this, I've walked away several times, saved as "draft," went to carpool, came home, got kids ready for quiet time, and such lol!!
Right now, as of 11am, I'm taking "me" time. Today is "extended" day for Lovely's preK and I don't have to be in the carpool line as early as usual. Instead I have another hour to sit here at the computer, on my bottom, open the window enough to hear the pouring rain and wind chimes, and just accomplish some things for me. Baby went down for her morning nap, and after "FLYing" around the kitchen and den in a quick pick up/straightening session (not deep cleaning mind you), I have set myself down by the window and have sat here at the computer for about an hour doing whatever the heck I want and not allowing any guilt. In fact, when Baby wakes up, I'll probably let her play on the bed beside me and I'll keep doing this before carpool and "reality" and enjoying her youthful energy and buzzing of her day. I've been looking up info on homeschooling, a website called "Saving Dinner" to see if I want to sign up for their freezer and Crock Pot recipes for a few months, reading blogs, processing pictures, e-mailing friends at work, and doing some meditative reading and thinking about faith (always running in my brain/heart). I could be reading my book club book, but I don't feel like it. I had thought about sewing more, but again.....no desire for some reason when I should take advantage of the "free" time. Oh yeah - the dryer is full of dry clothes. Nope...don't want to touch that either. I'm just listening to the rain in my PJ's, chilling, and even looking forward to naptime/quiet time this afternoon after carpool. Lovely will have eaten at school, so less work for me in the kitchen! We'll get home from carpool, and she'll head up for quiet time, and shortly after, the baby crashes for nap #2. I will embrace and enjoy that today!
(Baby is now awake, and happily playing on my bed).
I was just asked yesterday by possibly the one person I don't know how I've ever lived without lol how the heck I have time to blog, play violin, sew as well as capture and host family moments like picnics, etc and basically it comes down to this:
1) I feel compelled to do something for "me"and my family memory.
2) I type as fast as I talk - these novel entries don't take me long at all.
3) Often I write in a few moments, but save as "draft" and post on another day. Sometimes I'll have "banked" a few entries from those random moments I wrote my heart or brain out which makes for multiple entries.
4) The ages/routines of my children afford me random quiet time throughout the day. Lovely is in school 1/2 days, 5 days a week and naps after lunch or has quiet time. Baby Val naps in the morning and then when Lovely naps, so again - I have a short of 'routine dance' going on.
5) Hubby's work schedule. He works A. LOT. Luckily, from home in the evenings. But, after bedtime - I'm sometimes staying out of his way so I may have time to think and ponder. Again, that is where drafting and saving entries comes in handy.
6) And, I'm not perfect. When I'm trying to get chores done, or having a "me" break - if the kids can't be outside, napping, or reading - we do the TV. Yep....I can admit it. We LOVE movies and shows. All genres, types, classic, silent lol - all types!
Let me revisit #1 - I feel compelled to do something for "me". Selfish sounding, right? Well - I think it is all in how one prioritizes and then accomplishes that task. "Accomplish" is the word I'm picking, because that word implies action, not just some lazy decision on my end, with a needed outcome. And, I'm NO saint with this. I think I finally turned to blogging again in order to create order in making better decisions for both "me time" and needed "family moments". I write down my thoughts, my inspirations, positive thinking, or my struggles, and SEE it anew. I can make new plans, rethink, capture and record moments, gain perspective on what should be important in life. When I became a mom, I discovered how truly selfish I am. Notice I didn't say "was". I still have not gotten over my selfishness - but I embrace the growth and faith that come from challenging my innate nature. I'm called by my God to do this, while also embracing the gift of me. He does see me as a wonderful gift - to Himself and to others. When Lovely was born, I was a full time teacher and night time grad student. I felt like I was always having to do something for someone else - grade papers, cook dinner, change diapers, write a thesis paper, clean my home, drive to work drive to class, drive to day care, drive to parents.....while still making time to grow in my faith, live, and do what I'm called to do for me and my family. I got tired, I got forgetful, I couldn't see the forest because of the trees.
I craved "me" time, I craved "family moments and memory time" and then would not really document and prioritize those times. I'd look back and get depressed I had done nothing valuable. I felt we just existed in our home, not appreciating the time going by, and trying to SURVIVE the day. You know what I mean - normal humans NORMALLY spend much of their days overwhelmed, busy, tired, and full, focused on finding and keeping some routine, surviving till nap time/bed time and not "letting go, letting God" - I literally forgot the good things I/we did, or not take any time for me, or give myself any credit for the good things I did accomplish in that time for me. I'd start to think all I did was let Lovely watch too much TV so I could do one of my jobs or just rest (I need tips on how to accomplish more with the kids in the house and not under my feet when they can't go outside or be in another room. I also pass no judgement on families who watch TV. We do. We love TV. I admire those who don't and would love to know how they do it) Also, I had this idea that I took TOO much time for myself, or felt behind, procrastinated, rearranged, ignored my husband, daughter, friends, etc to do what I wanted or multi-tasked too much to get things done. I also took life for granted. Instead of cuddling Lovely every evening as a baby, she would bottle feed herself while I did other things, and all of the sudden - she was a big girl. Where did babyhood go? How could I balance out and record time for me, my family, my studies, while appreciating the steady beat of time - something I can not freeze and store. I started getting depressed on all I thought I missed with my schedule, and it hampered me remembering all the GOOD I did do. Yes, we did GREAT family things together - I just could not remember them. I think that is when my love for recording in pictures and words began, and I blogged for a few years. I eventually stopped because our lives changed in a big way, but the picture taking obsession with photography stayed with me.
The big change came with our move to a house and my becoming and SAHM over a year ago. I then really wanted to figure out time for me/time for family/living out my calling and faith in a balanced way (HA - like I'm balanced) For the first few months, I went nuts with all my new freedom. I spent SCADS of time with Lovely bonding, playdates, parks, mom's night outs, trying to clean the house, do most of the chores...and still felt empty. I finally was not working, doing what I really thought would make me happy and what I should do as a mother and I STILL battled my inner depression and compulsion and voices that plagued me, even with a strong faith, when working for 6 years. I battled with my faith journey. I would talk to myself and pray saying "I'm Catholic, why am I Catholic, what about my faith am I in love with?" (And I can say I am in love with my faith and I'm never done figuring it out and my place in faith AND religion). The thoughts in my head did not stop. We got pregnant (yay!) and time then became about battling my fatigue, embracing the loves of my life (faith, family, friends) and still feeling like all Lovely did all day was PreK and then TV watching. I KNOW I did more....but I felt all I did was "me" related....or housework related - not focused on the moment and doing the best for my family. The lines were all blurred and muddled and my head hurt from analyzing too much.
(Can you tell what an OVERTHINKER I am. I talk too fast, too much, and type too fast and too much haha)
So, blogging helps to unblur and unmuddle. Currently my blog is colorized in black, white and grey (I love that type of photography). And seeing typed words in black and white helps me focus. By far, nothing in my life is simply black and white...there is LOTS of grey - but the written word is pretty clear, while my feelings make up the grey areas. I feel, I write, I channel positive energy, grace, the Spirit; whatever I can. I record the good, the difficult, the REAL, and use it to help me focus on stepping back some, and making family moments - picnics, backyard playtime, laughter - because life IS too short. I still catch myself every hour trying to "survive" and get through the day, but blogging helps me catch myself and make plans to do something more for my family in this life, so fleeting, before the next life. In doing that for my family, I also get "me" time. It is a two way street. Time for me to pray, reflect, capture, and record while remembering the bigger picture for others as time allows.
Well, with that....I hope I somehow answered the question. In making blog rounds, I've noticed many bloggers asking and answering the same question on surviving the day, making time for oneself, family, passions, etc. It is on everyone's mind - blogging or not. I'm glad to have pondered it verbosely here lol! You can always count on me!
(now, off to carpool. "Draft" time! Then nap time!)
Right now, as of 11am, I'm taking "me" time. Today is "extended" day for Lovely's preK and I don't have to be in the carpool line as early as usual. Instead I have another hour to sit here at the computer, on my bottom, open the window enough to hear the pouring rain and wind chimes, and just accomplish some things for me. Baby went down for her morning nap, and after "FLYing" around the kitchen and den in a quick pick up/straightening session (not deep cleaning mind you), I have set myself down by the window and have sat here at the computer for about an hour doing whatever the heck I want and not allowing any guilt. In fact, when Baby wakes up, I'll probably let her play on the bed beside me and I'll keep doing this before carpool and "reality" and enjoying her youthful energy and buzzing of her day. I've been looking up info on homeschooling, a website called "Saving Dinner" to see if I want to sign up for their freezer and Crock Pot recipes for a few months, reading blogs, processing pictures, e-mailing friends at work, and doing some meditative reading and thinking about faith (always running in my brain/heart). I could be reading my book club book, but I don't feel like it. I had thought about sewing more, but again.....no desire for some reason when I should take advantage of the "free" time. Oh yeah - the dryer is full of dry clothes. Nope...don't want to touch that either. I'm just listening to the rain in my PJ's, chilling, and even looking forward to naptime/quiet time this afternoon after carpool. Lovely will have eaten at school, so less work for me in the kitchen! We'll get home from carpool, and she'll head up for quiet time, and shortly after, the baby crashes for nap #2. I will embrace and enjoy that today!
(Baby is now awake, and happily playing on my bed).
I was just asked yesterday by possibly the one person I don't know how I've ever lived without lol how the heck I have time to blog, play violin, sew as well as capture and host family moments like picnics, etc and basically it comes down to this:
1) I feel compelled to do something for "me"and my family memory.
2) I type as fast as I talk - these novel entries don't take me long at all.
3) Often I write in a few moments, but save as "draft" and post on another day. Sometimes I'll have "banked" a few entries from those random moments I wrote my heart or brain out which makes for multiple entries.
4) The ages/routines of my children afford me random quiet time throughout the day. Lovely is in school 1/2 days, 5 days a week and naps after lunch or has quiet time. Baby Val naps in the morning and then when Lovely naps, so again - I have a short of 'routine dance' going on.
5) Hubby's work schedule. He works A. LOT. Luckily, from home in the evenings. But, after bedtime - I'm sometimes staying out of his way so I may have time to think and ponder. Again, that is where drafting and saving entries comes in handy.
6) And, I'm not perfect. When I'm trying to get chores done, or having a "me" break - if the kids can't be outside, napping, or reading - we do the TV. Yep....I can admit it. We LOVE movies and shows. All genres, types, classic, silent lol - all types!
Let me revisit #1 - I feel compelled to do something for "me". Selfish sounding, right? Well - I think it is all in how one prioritizes and then accomplishes that task. "Accomplish" is the word I'm picking, because that word implies action, not just some lazy decision on my end, with a needed outcome. And, I'm NO saint with this. I think I finally turned to blogging again in order to create order in making better decisions for both "me time" and needed "family moments". I write down my thoughts, my inspirations, positive thinking, or my struggles, and SEE it anew. I can make new plans, rethink, capture and record moments, gain perspective on what should be important in life. When I became a mom, I discovered how truly selfish I am. Notice I didn't say "was". I still have not gotten over my selfishness - but I embrace the growth and faith that come from challenging my innate nature. I'm called by my God to do this, while also embracing the gift of me. He does see me as a wonderful gift - to Himself and to others. When Lovely was born, I was a full time teacher and night time grad student. I felt like I was always having to do something for someone else - grade papers, cook dinner, change diapers, write a thesis paper, clean my home, drive to work drive to class, drive to day care, drive to parents.....while still making time to grow in my faith, live, and do what I'm called to do for me and my family. I got tired, I got forgetful, I couldn't see the forest because of the trees.
I craved "me" time, I craved "family moments and memory time" and then would not really document and prioritize those times. I'd look back and get depressed I had done nothing valuable. I felt we just existed in our home, not appreciating the time going by, and trying to SURVIVE the day. You know what I mean - normal humans NORMALLY spend much of their days overwhelmed, busy, tired, and full, focused on finding and keeping some routine, surviving till nap time/bed time and not "letting go, letting God" - I literally forgot the good things I/we did, or not take any time for me, or give myself any credit for the good things I did accomplish in that time for me. I'd start to think all I did was let Lovely watch too much TV so I could do one of my jobs or just rest (I need tips on how to accomplish more with the kids in the house and not under my feet when they can't go outside or be in another room. I also pass no judgement on families who watch TV. We do. We love TV. I admire those who don't and would love to know how they do it) Also, I had this idea that I took TOO much time for myself, or felt behind, procrastinated, rearranged, ignored my husband, daughter, friends, etc to do what I wanted or multi-tasked too much to get things done. I also took life for granted. Instead of cuddling Lovely every evening as a baby, she would bottle feed herself while I did other things, and all of the sudden - she was a big girl. Where did babyhood go? How could I balance out and record time for me, my family, my studies, while appreciating the steady beat of time - something I can not freeze and store. I started getting depressed on all I thought I missed with my schedule, and it hampered me remembering all the GOOD I did do. Yes, we did GREAT family things together - I just could not remember them. I think that is when my love for recording in pictures and words began, and I blogged for a few years. I eventually stopped because our lives changed in a big way, but the picture taking obsession with photography stayed with me.
The big change came with our move to a house and my becoming and SAHM over a year ago. I then really wanted to figure out time for me/time for family/living out my calling and faith in a balanced way (HA - like I'm balanced) For the first few months, I went nuts with all my new freedom. I spent SCADS of time with Lovely bonding, playdates, parks, mom's night outs, trying to clean the house, do most of the chores...and still felt empty. I finally was not working, doing what I really thought would make me happy and what I should do as a mother and I STILL battled my inner depression and compulsion and voices that plagued me, even with a strong faith, when working for 6 years. I battled with my faith journey. I would talk to myself and pray saying "I'm Catholic, why am I Catholic, what about my faith am I in love with?" (And I can say I am in love with my faith and I'm never done figuring it out and my place in faith AND religion). The thoughts in my head did not stop. We got pregnant (yay!) and time then became about battling my fatigue, embracing the loves of my life (faith, family, friends) and still feeling like all Lovely did all day was PreK and then TV watching. I KNOW I did more....but I felt all I did was "me" related....or housework related - not focused on the moment and doing the best for my family. The lines were all blurred and muddled and my head hurt from analyzing too much.
(Can you tell what an OVERTHINKER I am. I talk too fast, too much, and type too fast and too much haha)
So, blogging helps to unblur and unmuddle. Currently my blog is colorized in black, white and grey (I love that type of photography). And seeing typed words in black and white helps me focus. By far, nothing in my life is simply black and white...there is LOTS of grey - but the written word is pretty clear, while my feelings make up the grey areas. I feel, I write, I channel positive energy, grace, the Spirit; whatever I can. I record the good, the difficult, the REAL, and use it to help me focus on stepping back some, and making family moments - picnics, backyard playtime, laughter - because life IS too short. I still catch myself every hour trying to "survive" and get through the day, but blogging helps me catch myself and make plans to do something more for my family in this life, so fleeting, before the next life. In doing that for my family, I also get "me" time. It is a two way street. Time for me to pray, reflect, capture, and record while remembering the bigger picture for others as time allows.
Well, with that....I hope I somehow answered the question. In making blog rounds, I've noticed many bloggers asking and answering the same question on surviving the day, making time for oneself, family, passions, etc. It is on everyone's mind - blogging or not. I'm glad to have pondered it verbosely here lol! You can always count on me!
(now, off to carpool. "Draft" time! Then nap time!)
*****
Friday Five
When I used to blog, one of my IRL friends, Kelly, had cool "daily" topics for the days of the week (like Small Successes, Thankful Thursday). She called it the "Friday Five". Just a quick list of 5 recaps, or even answering blogging questions posed from any readers who could exist. So, if anyone is reading this...fill free to jump in sometime - ask me some questions about whatever. I'll try and answer them. If not, I'll just do my Friday Five recap :)
1) I'm loving today. It's the perfect, God given, lazy day. I've had a blast listening to the rain outside, have no place to be, no self induced pressure to be doing something, and no guilt. Who knows if it will last....I can get highs and lows easily in my day!!
2) I'm looking forward to taking the kids and meeting our dear friends at the parish Fish fry! Here's your shout out M! HA! I have a craving for simple clam chowder and Lovely wants some shrimp and grilled cheese (what a combo....ewwww!). It is so cool to get together with the young families at our parish for a community meal!**EDITED to add it was so fun seeing D and her family at the Fish Fry! You looked lovely!
3) This weekend will be fun! Tomorrow is a 5 yo b-day party at an indoor kid gym, then we have our Supper Club group dinner (1st one of the season) tomorrow night. We get to meet a new couple, and spend time again with the ladies and their hubbies from my woman's group Michelle and I attempt to lead lol. Lovely will go to my parents, and sleep over as then Sunday I am helping Sarah co-host a shower. I can't wait to have girl time with dear, dear friends!!! I am BLESSED!!!
4) Baby Val is a 9 month old now!!! HUH? When did that happen? She's sitting up, babbling, no teeth, still content to not explore just yet by crawling or creeping, but does love to touch things. I'm kinda glad she is so content to sit around. I have a LOT of baby proofing to do. She's 15 pounds and a little peanut and joy in our lives.
5) Lovely is a hoot. So creative, talented, strong willed, and funny - but my relaxed parenting style (ok, relaxed may not be the best word cause I'm always worried about my actions) is catching up with me because I need to be more consistent on manners, voice loudness, actions, and follow through. We've hit an age of selective listening, making choices, and I'm SO TIRED at the end of the day parenting her lol. The other night she disappeared on me when we were outside. She went into the house, but how would I know that?? I felt like a failure. I want everyone to know the joy Lovely is, and when we are just us, she IS so great....I get all paranoid around other parents because their kids show their consistency and I question if I'm a good parent. That's a post for another day. When I feel good though, our days ARE good, and Lovely is SO good, and fun. She is so loving and deep. I'm not sure why I was blessed to be HER mother. She deserves so much more :)
So...what's your Friday Five? E-mail me, CALL me (*wink*), comment, or blog it yourself!! Just enjoy a quick list!
Much Love! TGIF!!!
When I used to blog, one of my IRL friends, Kelly, had cool "daily" topics for the days of the week (like Small Successes, Thankful Thursday). She called it the "Friday Five". Just a quick list of 5 recaps, or even answering blogging questions posed from any readers who could exist. So, if anyone is reading this...fill free to jump in sometime - ask me some questions about whatever. I'll try and answer them. If not, I'll just do my Friday Five recap :)
1) I'm loving today. It's the perfect, God given, lazy day. I've had a blast listening to the rain outside, have no place to be, no self induced pressure to be doing something, and no guilt. Who knows if it will last....I can get highs and lows easily in my day!!
2) I'm looking forward to taking the kids and meeting our dear friends at the parish Fish fry! Here's your shout out M! HA! I have a craving for simple clam chowder and Lovely wants some shrimp and grilled cheese (what a combo....ewwww!). It is so cool to get together with the young families at our parish for a community meal!**EDITED to add it was so fun seeing D and her family at the Fish Fry! You looked lovely!
3) This weekend will be fun! Tomorrow is a 5 yo b-day party at an indoor kid gym, then we have our Supper Club group dinner (1st one of the season) tomorrow night. We get to meet a new couple, and spend time again with the ladies and their hubbies from my woman's group Michelle and I attempt to lead lol. Lovely will go to my parents, and sleep over as then Sunday I am helping Sarah co-host a shower. I can't wait to have girl time with dear, dear friends!!! I am BLESSED!!!
4) Baby Val is a 9 month old now!!! HUH? When did that happen? She's sitting up, babbling, no teeth, still content to not explore just yet by crawling or creeping, but does love to touch things. I'm kinda glad she is so content to sit around. I have a LOT of baby proofing to do. She's 15 pounds and a little peanut and joy in our lives.
5) Lovely is a hoot. So creative, talented, strong willed, and funny - but my relaxed parenting style (ok, relaxed may not be the best word cause I'm always worried about my actions) is catching up with me because I need to be more consistent on manners, voice loudness, actions, and follow through. We've hit an age of selective listening, making choices, and I'm SO TIRED at the end of the day parenting her lol. The other night she disappeared on me when we were outside. She went into the house, but how would I know that?? I felt like a failure. I want everyone to know the joy Lovely is, and when we are just us, she IS so great....I get all paranoid around other parents because their kids show their consistency and I question if I'm a good parent. That's a post for another day. When I feel good though, our days ARE good, and Lovely is SO good, and fun. She is so loving and deep. I'm not sure why I was blessed to be HER mother. She deserves so much more :)
So...what's your Friday Five? E-mail me, CALL me (*wink*), comment, or blog it yourself!! Just enjoy a quick list!
Much Love! TGIF!!!
Lenten Med's Catch Up
Today is Day 27 of Lent. Below is Today's meditation.
Day 27 (Today's)
Day 26
Day 25
Day 27 (Today's)
Fast: Refrain from self promotion. “The only way to make rapid progress along the path of divine love is to remain very little and to put all our trust in Almighty God. That is what I have done.” — St. Therese
Pray: Is there someone who inspires feelings of inferiority in you? Offer a Memorare (or prayer) for her intentions.
Give: Page through your wedding album with your children today. Remember how loved you felt that day. Love your family well.
***
The below is really just for me. I got behind on reposting the Lenten Meditations, and I want to have a record of them in case I could use them during the year! Some I lost, or something, so there is a random list below.Day 26
Fast: Let go of despair and know that God gives you sufficient grace. “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” — St. Francis of Assisi
Pray: Pray to know how God wants you to spend your time online.
Give: Make sure that everyone in your family gets at least one of your hugs today.
Day 25
Fast: Let go of self-recrimination. “There is still time for endurance, time for patience, time for healing, time for change. Have you slipped? Rise up. Have you sinned? Cease. Do not stand among sinners, but leap aside.” — St. Basil the Great
Pray: For a few minutes tonight, after your children are sleeping, kneel beside their beds. Let your breath rise and fall with theirs. Entrust them to the Father and thank Him for lending them to you.
Give: Do not say “In a minute” or “When I finish this” at all today. Instead, put aside your agenda and meet their needs (and even some wants) immediately and cheerfully.
Day 24Fast: Give up thinking things have to be perfect.
“Don’t get upset with your imperfections. It’s a great mistake because it leads nowhere - to get angry because you are angry, upset at being upset, depressed at being depressed, disappointed because you are disappointed. So don’t fool yourself. Simply surrender to the Power of God’s Love, which is always greater than our weakness.” — St. Francis de Sales
Pray: Before you go anywhere else online today, pray this prayer, taken from the writings of St. Louis de Montfort: Lord, help me to imitate Mary’s deep humility, lively faith, blind obedience, unceasing prayer, constant self-denial, surpassing purity, ardent love, heroic patience, angelic kindness, and heavenly wisdom. Amen.
Give: As you do laundry today, bless the person for whom you are folding. With every crease, offer a prayer.
Day 23Fast: Clean out the refrigerator today instead of eating lunch. Pull everything out and wipe it all down. As you do it, thank God for providing food in your family.
Pray: Give thanks for food, clothes, and shelter. Listen to His plan for stewardship.
Give: “We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.“ — Mother Teresa
Assure the people in your home that they are wanted, loved and cared for. Don’t use words.
Fast: Rise a little earlier and bring your husband breakfast in bed. (If it’s too late today, plan for tomorrow).
Pray: Move your wedding band to your right hand. Every time you notice the difference today, pray for your marriage. Listen to His answers.
Give: Plan a date night.
Day 21Fast: Don’t compare or complain. Do compliment.
Pray: Ask God to make you humble and lowly.
Give: Pack a picnic and go somewhere to eat it with your children. If the weather is prohibitive, build a tent in the living room and it eat there. Sit on the ground with them. Be fully present.
Day 20Fast: We’re half way through. Compare yourself now only to yourself when Lent began. Tweak the plan.
Pray: Insist on quiet from all your children during naptime today. Pray the Divine Mercy chaplet.
Give: Reach out to a local friend today. Reconnect.
Day 19Fast: Don’t forget that the only pedestal you need ever stand on, is the one your husband and children build for you.
Pray: Persevere. “He who does not give up prayer cannot possibly continue to offend God habitually. Either he will give up prayer, or he will give up sinning.” – St. Alphonsus Liguori
Give: Focus on your home today. The world can find another volunteer, but your husband and children have only you.
Day 16Fast: Think of someone whose life you are tempted to envy and then choke out these words: “Thank you, God, for the blessings you have given to X. Give her more. And help me to see my own.”
Pray: Take a walk, even if it’s cold or raining. Leave your iPod at home.
Give: Think about the kind of person your husband married. Be that person for him today.
Day 10Fast: Give up your pride. “A soul does not benefit from the sacrament of confession if it is not humble. Pride keeps it in darkness. The soul neither knows how, nor is it willing, to probe with precision the depths of its own misery. It puts on a mask and avoids everything that might bring it recovery.” — St. Faustina
Pray: Go to confession.
Give: Take your children to confession.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Small Successes, Thankful Thursday, Day 26
1. I got two of my 3 sewing projects done. I really thought I'd do the other two, but maybe today or Friday. It felt good to do something with my hands and see bright, happy colors, and know that I MADE it!!!
2. I've managed to cook dinner every night, despite my lack of will to. I was doing so well, and getting excited about cooking real food - then the month long illness wore on me, and I was tempted to order in, or boxed items. I'm my own worst enemy when it comes to cooking. I love the thrill of a good meal, but it takes me forever to follow directions on new recipes, or I overcook, or something lol. But, we've had nutritious, yummy meals this week! I'm crock potting pork chops today too!
3. We spent as a lot of time this week as a family, outside, away from the TV! This last month we spent post dinner 'tubing, but this week I had enough! Even today on this rainy day we did more activities. I'll be honest, I was more tired (especially Tues night - still need to recap that sometime), and I had less patience dealing with everyone - but I need to work on that. Maybe more sleep can help that....rest, prayer.....
*****
~ I'm thankful for having more time than usual with my family this week (Hubby worked less in the evenings).
Thankful ThursdayA great list inspired by Neoteric for Thursdays. I thought it was great because, forget accomplishments, it is just so nice to list things we are thankful for.
~ Even though I love cool breezy, sunny spring days, I'm thankful for the rainy weather for moments captured in this picture from Wednesday.
~ Even though I love cool breezy, sunny spring days, I'm thankful for the rainy weather for moments captured in this picture from Wednesday.
~ I'm thankful for the inspiration of Sarah, even on days we are both tired, "done", but still aiming for a good day with the kids on top of everything else. She's very special.
~ I'm thankful this has been a better week for her all around!
~ I'm thankful for quiet time :) Especially with little visitors joining in (it worked out great!!)
~ I'm thankful for a night out tomorrow to watch the movie Twilight with friends if my energy and health hold out.
~ I'm thankful for God being there for me, when I'm not 100% there for Him. When I have a quiet moment to reflect after stressing out or "losing it" as I've done a lot this week I'm reminded if I try to control the situation, it does not work as well as it would to just "Let go, Let God." I'm battling myself more than the actions of my family. Sure, I still need to parent well, etc but the micromanaging part is what I need to relinquish.
~ I'm grateful for Cara - who holds her head high despite a hard knock week and still can be real and open and loving in return. She is a great mom too.
~ I'm thankful for Hubby's work, food on our table, and improvement in our health.
*****
Again, from the same button tag above - I've gotten behind reposting the meditations. This one is very beautiful today!
Fast: Let go of despair and know that God gives you sufficient grace. “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” — St. Francis of Assisi
Pray: Pray to know how God wants you to spend your time online.
Give: Make sure that everyone in your family gets at least one of your hugs today.
Fast: Let go of despair and know that God gives you sufficient grace. “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” — St. Francis of Assisi
Pray: Pray to know how God wants you to spend your time online.
Give: Make sure that everyone in your family gets at least one of your hugs today.
God Bless!!!! Smile!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Spring has Sprung
I posted a new entry, but it somehow is BELOW this entry...scroll down for some more pics of our week.
Blessings!!!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Sick Day
**This is about Monday but posting it cheers me up, because I didn't have a good ending to my day yesterday, and today it is all rainy and blah. The below at least chronicles the fun sick days. Yesterday, after a rough pre dinner time and bedtime - I went outside with a blanket and my lounge chair and looked up at the night sky, fell asleep, calmed down, recollected, and was completely alone with the gentle wind and crickets till 10pm. It was a needed refresher....and a story for later. For now, enjoy the below.**
I know this doesn't look like your typical sick day - but this was ours. Between a pinched back and muscle relaxers (Hubby), and still recovering from walking pneumonia (me), the Vitamin D benefits of the sun called us on Monday. Hubby even managed to toss a glider around for Lovely - though a bit stiff. He also brought us lunch....YUM!
Well, sometimes we were VERY tired.....
But the sun's ray's beckoned.....(even in my mismatched PJ's).
And yes, even feeling sick, I'm so grateful to be able to sun in my backyard on a Monday. Very. Grateful.
And when Lovely came home from school, she joined in (and challenged the strength of the muscle relaxers)
She helped Daddy "soar" to new heights of health
Valiant enjoying all the fun!
Picnic ~ compliments of Daddy (see last entry for pics of Lovely and her milk face).
Fun in the Sun! Val was a bit fussy all day, poor kid....
Though you'd NEVER would have guessed it outside!
After piano, we came home and had a veggie casserole dinner outside.
Ok, yeah, I have shadows under the eyes and look tired, but really...the food, the weather, the people.....
I'll take this type of sickness ANY day.
"To Health!!!"
I know this doesn't look like your typical sick day - but this was ours. Between a pinched back and muscle relaxers (Hubby), and still recovering from walking pneumonia (me), the Vitamin D benefits of the sun called us on Monday. Hubby even managed to toss a glider around for Lovely - though a bit stiff. He also brought us lunch....YUM!
Well, sometimes we were VERY tired.....
But the sun's ray's beckoned.....(even in my mismatched PJ's).
And yes, even feeling sick, I'm so grateful to be able to sun in my backyard on a Monday. Very. Grateful.
And when Lovely came home from school, she joined in (and challenged the strength of the muscle relaxers)
She helped Daddy "soar" to new heights of health
Valiant enjoying all the fun!
Picnic ~ compliments of Daddy (see last entry for pics of Lovely and her milk face).
Fun in the Sun! Val was a bit fussy all day, poor kid....
Though you'd NEVER would have guessed it outside!
After piano, we came home and had a veggie casserole dinner outside.
Ok, yeah, I have shadows under the eyes and look tired, but really...the food, the weather, the people.....
I'll take this type of sickness ANY day.
"To Health!!!"
TAG Me....
( a play on "GAG me"....lol)
Oh, woe is the visual/tactile learner. The learner who needs to see and feel how things work, not just read great directions and a few tutorial pics. I promise it isn't the blog crafter's fault....it was mine!!! Just how I'm wired. What was blogged as a "naptime project", for me, took all day yesterday, AND taking it to my sister to get her help since I was going to her house to get my older daughter anyway lol. She showed me a simpler fold for my mine, while still making the craft safe for a baby, and easy enough for my medicated mind (I love how when I'm sick, and minus one kid, I sew instead of nap...HA!). It is sad how such a simple, straight line project took me ALL DAY, and many ripping of seams and re-stitching. Basically, I need to keep practicing, I don't sew enough, so I take FOREVER...something about the old adage - a stitch in time, saves nine. Yeah, I'm not even close to "nine." So yes, GAG me.
But, here I unveil my first (and NOT last!!) Baby Tag Blanket:
(and yes, if you look at other blogs, crafters use more minky fabric, patchwork patterns, combination of 2 or more textured fabrics together, etc. and get much lovelier outcomes lol) I hunted around and picked a pattern that had tags on 2 sides only, so the baby could also nuzzle the plain soft sides if they picked. You can add tags (ribbons) to all four sides as you wish! I also made it 18x18 so it was a good size for holding and carrying around.
BUT, you know....this blankie turns into an AMAZING treasure when introduced to the precious, curly top baby girl who inspired its creation because of her love of tags......
Sunday's labor of love? Totally worth it for that face....
Priceless.... :)
Thank you Mama's Doodles for the help and wonderful directions. You can tell from the comments they were easy to follow. I'm just extra special. I can't wait to keep practicing and get more expressive and creative with fabrics, textures, patterns, etc.
** Oh, big sister Lovely has now requested a tag blanket (just in pink she says, no "dots" - I need to see if she wants just pink ribbon - she loves the book Pinkalicious) after seeing her sister's this morning. And rightly so - I did not know how to sew when she was born, so I never did make her anything. I'll try and do that today or in the next few days....
*** NEW UPDATE - Lovely wants a BIG blanket, NO tags, a size I don't have - so I told her it could be a while, and I'd surprise her when I could. I may make her some doll bedding with the smaller cuts I have, and later on make her a big one when I can shop.
UPDATE: Ok, so on Thursday I finished two more projects. One I forgot to snag a picture of, but whatever - it really was not worth a picture lol. I recovered a thrift store baby bath support seat (looks like a mini bouncer) for my best friend's little girl using left over pink fleece from Val's tag blanket. She can use it as a baby doll bouncer should she choose (or she may look at it and laugh and use it for soccer practice). I also, after MUCH frustration with my SILLY sewing machine, pulled together a boyish tag blanket for her son. I think though, I'd LOVE to remake it sometime. The pattern on the fleece was such that it could get off centered, and plus, I had a bad moment and sewed the tags wrong and jammed my machine. Some tags went in wonky directions on the corners. I was very bummed at the outcome, but you know...still kinda liked the "rag tag" effect (HA!). So, I may make a go of it again. Babies need lots of tactile practice, correct? One can't have too many blankets! hehe! But, perfection wise...*sigh*. I want to give them perfection!! And to think, Michelle thinks I should open an online store.....she needs to go on tour with her wit. People would PAY for it!
Oh, woe is the visual/tactile learner. The learner who needs to see and feel how things work, not just read great directions and a few tutorial pics. I promise it isn't the blog crafter's fault....it was mine!!! Just how I'm wired. What was blogged as a "naptime project", for me, took all day yesterday, AND taking it to my sister to get her help since I was going to her house to get my older daughter anyway lol. She showed me a simpler fold for my mine, while still making the craft safe for a baby, and easy enough for my medicated mind (I love how when I'm sick, and minus one kid, I sew instead of nap...HA!). It is sad how such a simple, straight line project took me ALL DAY, and many ripping of seams and re-stitching. Basically, I need to keep practicing, I don't sew enough, so I take FOREVER...something about the old adage - a stitch in time, saves nine. Yeah, I'm not even close to "nine." So yes, GAG me.
But, here I unveil my first (and NOT last!!) Baby Tag Blanket:
(and yes, if you look at other blogs, crafters use more minky fabric, patchwork patterns, combination of 2 or more textured fabrics together, etc. and get much lovelier outcomes lol) I hunted around and picked a pattern that had tags on 2 sides only, so the baby could also nuzzle the plain soft sides if they picked. You can add tags (ribbons) to all four sides as you wish! I also made it 18x18 so it was a good size for holding and carrying around.
BUT, you know....this blankie turns into an AMAZING treasure when introduced to the precious, curly top baby girl who inspired its creation because of her love of tags......
Sunday's labor of love? Totally worth it for that face....
Priceless.... :)
Thank you Mama's Doodles for the help and wonderful directions. You can tell from the comments they were easy to follow. I'm just extra special. I can't wait to keep practicing and get more expressive and creative with fabrics, textures, patterns, etc.
** Oh, big sister Lovely has now requested a tag blanket (just in pink she says, no "dots" - I need to see if she wants just pink ribbon - she loves the book Pinkalicious) after seeing her sister's this morning. And rightly so - I did not know how to sew when she was born, so I never did make her anything. I'll try and do that today or in the next few days....
*** NEW UPDATE - Lovely wants a BIG blanket, NO tags, a size I don't have - so I told her it could be a while, and I'd surprise her when I could. I may make her some doll bedding with the smaller cuts I have, and later on make her a big one when I can shop.
UPDATE: Ok, so on Thursday I finished two more projects. One I forgot to snag a picture of, but whatever - it really was not worth a picture lol. I recovered a thrift store baby bath support seat (looks like a mini bouncer) for my best friend's little girl using left over pink fleece from Val's tag blanket. She can use it as a baby doll bouncer should she choose (or she may look at it and laugh and use it for soccer practice). I also, after MUCH frustration with my SILLY sewing machine, pulled together a boyish tag blanket for her son. I think though, I'd LOVE to remake it sometime. The pattern on the fleece was such that it could get off centered, and plus, I had a bad moment and sewed the tags wrong and jammed my machine. Some tags went in wonky directions on the corners. I was very bummed at the outcome, but you know...still kinda liked the "rag tag" effect (HA!). So, I may make a go of it again. Babies need lots of tactile practice, correct? One can't have too many blankets! hehe! But, perfection wise...*sigh*. I want to give them perfection!! And to think, Michelle thinks I should open an online store.....she needs to go on tour with her wit. People would PAY for it!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Happy 1st Day of SPRING!!!!
Even Google knows how special today is!!! Look at their logo:
Who doesn't love the colors of author Eric Carle! I think we should all grab his children's books, head outside in this weather, and read them!! I'm going to find Very Hungry Caterpillar, Brown Bear, Kangaroo's Mommy, etc and enjoy them with the girls post nap outside. The weather is gorgeous!!
Happy Spring All!
Who doesn't love the colors of author Eric Carle! I think we should all grab his children's books, head outside in this weather, and read them!! I'm going to find Very Hungry Caterpillar, Brown Bear, Kangaroo's Mommy, etc and enjoy them with the girls post nap outside. The weather is gorgeous!!
Happy Spring All!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
"Small Successes" Thursday Edition *UPDATED*
"It’s important for moms [or women] to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that." Fill free to post your list in the comments here or on your blog, mom or not!
1. This past weekend I got the 1st of 3 crafts (well, I guess if you could taking pictures and framing them crafts) done. I had a fun time arranging and framing them though. It felt good to see the start and END to a project. Sure, the journey is part of the craft love...but I LOVE seeing the payoff in completion! I hope to dedicate some more this week to 2 more sewing projects. One for Valiant, and some others for another shower and birthday.
2. I've had some great bonding times with my kids. The fog of the past month is lifting, and Monday's home from school rest day was a blast! We created, talked, and played lots of board games!
3. I caught up on loads of laundry and managed to deep clean and bleach clean some of the more "raw" places in the house. SCORE! I love destroying mini-civilizations before they invent the wheel and create writing.
Now, to add one more success to my list....getting RE-checked* out for my cough and other ailments. Gotta take care of the caregiver! Ciao!
** Updated to add my nagging cough that the PA diagnosed as allergies is now official diagnosed (by my favorite MD) as Pneumonia!! More like the walking kind since I have no fever, but still I've been hacking this on friends and family for weeks. Sorry!! (and, this is a great example of trusting your gut. I knew it was not allergies!!). At least now mommy can recover too!!! I'm ready to feel good again!***
1. This past weekend I got the 1st of 3 crafts (well, I guess if you could taking pictures and framing them crafts) done. I had a fun time arranging and framing them though. It felt good to see the start and END to a project. Sure, the journey is part of the craft love...but I LOVE seeing the payoff in completion! I hope to dedicate some more this week to 2 more sewing projects. One for Valiant, and some others for another shower and birthday.
2. I've had some great bonding times with my kids. The fog of the past month is lifting, and Monday's home from school rest day was a blast! We created, talked, and played lots of board games!
3. I caught up on loads of laundry and managed to deep clean and bleach clean some of the more "raw" places in the house. SCORE! I love destroying mini-civilizations before they invent the wheel and create writing.
Now, to add one more success to my list....getting RE-checked* out for my cough and other ailments. Gotta take care of the caregiver! Ciao!
** Updated to add my nagging cough that the PA diagnosed as allergies is now official diagnosed (by my favorite MD) as Pneumonia!! More like the walking kind since I have no fever, but still I've been hacking this on friends and family for weeks. Sorry!! (and, this is a great example of trusting your gut. I knew it was not allergies!!). At least now mommy can recover too!!! I'm ready to feel good again!***
SHOW STOPPER
So - times are tough. Money is tight. Things are not looking very 'rosey' these days. So, how does a young family help create memories for their kids? Use coupons to go to a circus? Save up funds for the ice capades? Get last row seats at a dance recital or show?
Well - scrap all that. I have one heck of a show stopper for you!!! You know of famous dance moves such as "The Lawnmower", "The Sprinkler", and "The Shopping Cart". Well check out:
.............................
.............................
............................
The PRESSURE WASHER!!!
Oh yeah!!!!!!
(Edited to add, that little E there pretended she had a baby in her tummy most of her visit and stuck a doll under her shirt - just in case you were wondering. I didn't catch that right away. Maybe you are faster than I am)
Kids watch amazed, in awe, captivated. They don't budge, and they even clap and cheer!
And this is why we don't need a lot in life. A little goes a long way :)
Today was a fun day! After school and a needed nap for my girls and I, we obviously enjoyed a fun play date. The kids played Hungry Hungry Hippos, played piano (apparently, Lovely decided to pretend to be Simon Cowell - nice. We'll work on that.), and lots of Wii. A and Lovely ran 2.8 miles together, E made an cheering audience of animals and herself, and lots of balance games too. I got some reading time in, played cheerleader, did some cleaning, got dinner started, and took in some Wii bowling. Kids and Moms both win in doing what they want and need!!
Aside from me being out of it today (I'm having hearing issues and feel very loopy from the congestion. I think the lack of oxygen is making me more nutty than usual. Is that possible? I'm looking forward to my check up in the morning) it was a great afternoon!!
I got back to cooking dinner again (oh wait, I said that....again, lack of O2. You can't make me stop talking) and steamed some fresh lemon pepper chicken, brown rice, and veggies. I wonder if I can make myself cook tomorrow. I'm not sure we'll have enough leftovers.
With that, I'd better wrap up. I have a few things to do before bed, and then need to rub the sore back of my hubby after his kid friendly show today. Who needs a pool boy when I have a Pressure Washer MAN !!?? hahahahaha
Sweet Dreams!
Well - scrap all that. I have one heck of a show stopper for you!!! You know of famous dance moves such as "The Lawnmower", "The Sprinkler", and "The Shopping Cart". Well check out:
.............................
.............................
............................
The PRESSURE WASHER!!!
Oh yeah!!!!!!
(Edited to add, that little E there pretended she had a baby in her tummy most of her visit and stuck a doll under her shirt - just in case you were wondering. I didn't catch that right away. Maybe you are faster than I am)
Kids watch amazed, in awe, captivated. They don't budge, and they even clap and cheer!
And this is why we don't need a lot in life. A little goes a long way :)
Today was a fun day! After school and a needed nap for my girls and I, we obviously enjoyed a fun play date. The kids played Hungry Hungry Hippos, played piano (apparently, Lovely decided to pretend to be Simon Cowell - nice. We'll work on that.), and lots of Wii. A and Lovely ran 2.8 miles together, E made an cheering audience of animals and herself, and lots of balance games too. I got some reading time in, played cheerleader, did some cleaning, got dinner started, and took in some Wii bowling. Kids and Moms both win in doing what they want and need!!
Aside from me being out of it today (I'm having hearing issues and feel very loopy from the congestion. I think the lack of oxygen is making me more nutty than usual. Is that possible? I'm looking forward to my check up in the morning) it was a great afternoon!!I got back to cooking dinner again (oh wait, I said that....again, lack of O2. You can't make me stop talking) and steamed some fresh lemon pepper chicken, brown rice, and veggies. I wonder if I can make myself cook tomorrow. I'm not sure we'll have enough leftovers.
With that, I'd better wrap up. I have a few things to do before bed, and then need to rub the sore back of my hubby after his kid friendly show today. Who needs a pool boy when I have a Pressure Washer MAN !!?? hahahahaha
Sweet Dreams!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
I Found My Pot of Gold
Happy St. Patrick's Day!!! The last three days have been really good days! Our family has been REALLY under the weather and we're starting to see the light and silver lining! I think I'm the last one to get better, but I'm functional - and that's all that matters *wink*.
Let's see, looking back....
Even though Val hasn't slept well since getting sick and taking her first antibiotics, Saturday night to Sunday morning was better than I could have hoped. She got up a few times, but with the rainy dark weather Sunday morning, the girls and I slept in...and in...and in.....till Daddy got home from church. It was so needed! Sunday then was a restful day. Very lovely!
Monday was great too. I gave Lovely one last day to rest up before heading back to school (she's better, energetic, but still pale). We had such a great morning. One of those mornings I think maybe homeschooling could work for me. We did a baking project that fit in with my goal to make and continue more holiday traditions. For me, that includes all holidays! We're big Easter Bunny fans here, but I also wanted to bring in some traditions (some old, some new - all new to me) that fit in with the season - currently, Lent. We made a visual aid for her behavior - most specifically doing things for OTHERS. She's been doing a bean jar before this of all her good deeds (manners, following directions, etc) that on Easter Sunday the Easter Bunny will swap out for JELLY BEANS, but this one is more to help instill and visualize doing good and making sacrifices for others, and in turn for Jesus. It is a braided and baked dough with toothpicks to look like the crown of thorns. When Rachael does something she really doesn't want to do that helps others, she can pull out a toothpick. Mommy and Daddy too! The goal is by Easter the thorns will be gone, we've eased others (and Jesus') discomfort, and we are left with a cool table center. We had SUCH a fun time mixing and baking together. I don't do it enough. She is a JOY to do projects and crafts with that she is excited about too. It turned out great.
After a rest, she went to her FIRST piano lesson. Again, she touched my heart and amazed me with her talent. She was not a bouncy, typical "ADD" 5 year old like most days (which I think is a good thing!!). For the first time in my memory, for 30 whole minutes, she was riveted to the piano, her new teacher, and learning hand positions and rhythm. She followed every direction, demonstrated her amazing ear (her teacher was VERY impressed), and smiled the whole time. She did not want to leave. She's already practiced, and wants to practice more when Daddy gets home. I know we'll have good and hard days with this (I did with practicing), but to know she FEELS the passion, and this is her thing....is so inspiring. I feel so proud and that I have the best daughter in the world. It helped me to release some of the constant "mommy worry/overthinking" I do about my parenting (I don't compare my child to others, I compare ME to others) and made me just marvel at this child I helped create and foster with all the love in my heart, and her Daddy's.
Last night everyone slept through the night!! We awoke on time, got well fed, and on to the day! Lovely went to school (YIPPEEEE!!), Val and I some errands, then home for a rest. Laundry got started, and straightening done (very big for me!). The grandparents came by for a quick visit for lunch, and tonight is a mom's night out for me! After two weeks of really not seeing friends (my "lucky charms" hehe - a Patty's Day pun)....I get to get OUT.
I was going to cook dinner, but the meat did not thaw fast enough, and Hubby was like...what the heck - don't put it in water, let it keep thawing in the fridge for tomorrow. "Tonight, let's eat GREEK." So, he's coming home with food from a local, family owned, greek restaurant with souvlaki and all the trimmings. A man after my own heart. I love a man who knows that the way to a woman's heart is with grape leaves. Home is where the hummus is. He can never be "feta" with me*. I "pita" the fool....
ok, I'll STOP!
He's home. Time to eat, shower, and celebrate the IRISH with my "charms"!!!! Happy St. Patrick's Day!!! I hope your rainbow and pot of gold are under your nose too!!
Luck and Life to ya! (and love too!)
* feta ='s "fed up", get it? He can never be "feta" with me? Baaaahahahahahaahahahahahah
Let's see, looking back....
Even though Val hasn't slept well since getting sick and taking her first antibiotics, Saturday night to Sunday morning was better than I could have hoped. She got up a few times, but with the rainy dark weather Sunday morning, the girls and I slept in...and in...and in.....till Daddy got home from church. It was so needed! Sunday then was a restful day. Very lovely!
Monday was great too. I gave Lovely one last day to rest up before heading back to school (she's better, energetic, but still pale). We had such a great morning. One of those mornings I think maybe homeschooling could work for me. We did a baking project that fit in with my goal to make and continue more holiday traditions. For me, that includes all holidays! We're big Easter Bunny fans here, but I also wanted to bring in some traditions (some old, some new - all new to me) that fit in with the season - currently, Lent. We made a visual aid for her behavior - most specifically doing things for OTHERS. She's been doing a bean jar before this of all her good deeds (manners, following directions, etc) that on Easter Sunday the Easter Bunny will swap out for JELLY BEANS, but this one is more to help instill and visualize doing good and making sacrifices for others, and in turn for Jesus. It is a braided and baked dough with toothpicks to look like the crown of thorns. When Rachael does something she really doesn't want to do that helps others, she can pull out a toothpick. Mommy and Daddy too! The goal is by Easter the thorns will be gone, we've eased others (and Jesus') discomfort, and we are left with a cool table center. We had SUCH a fun time mixing and baking together. I don't do it enough. She is a JOY to do projects and crafts with that she is excited about too. It turned out great.
After a rest, she went to her FIRST piano lesson. Again, she touched my heart and amazed me with her talent. She was not a bouncy, typical "ADD" 5 year old like most days (which I think is a good thing!!). For the first time in my memory, for 30 whole minutes, she was riveted to the piano, her new teacher, and learning hand positions and rhythm. She followed every direction, demonstrated her amazing ear (her teacher was VERY impressed), and smiled the whole time. She did not want to leave. She's already practiced, and wants to practice more when Daddy gets home. I know we'll have good and hard days with this (I did with practicing), but to know she FEELS the passion, and this is her thing....is so inspiring. I feel so proud and that I have the best daughter in the world. It helped me to release some of the constant "mommy worry/overthinking" I do about my parenting (I don't compare my child to others, I compare ME to others) and made me just marvel at this child I helped create and foster with all the love in my heart, and her Daddy's.
Last night everyone slept through the night!! We awoke on time, got well fed, and on to the day! Lovely went to school (YIPPEEEE!!), Val and I some errands, then home for a rest. Laundry got started, and straightening done (very big for me!). The grandparents came by for a quick visit for lunch, and tonight is a mom's night out for me! After two weeks of really not seeing friends (my "lucky charms" hehe - a Patty's Day pun)....I get to get OUT.
I was going to cook dinner, but the meat did not thaw fast enough, and Hubby was like...what the heck - don't put it in water, let it keep thawing in the fridge for tomorrow. "Tonight, let's eat GREEK." So, he's coming home with food from a local, family owned, greek restaurant with souvlaki and all the trimmings. A man after my own heart. I love a man who knows that the way to a woman's heart is with grape leaves. Home is where the hummus is. He can never be "feta" with me*. I "pita" the fool....
ok, I'll STOP!
He's home. Time to eat, shower, and celebrate the IRISH with my "charms"!!!! Happy St. Patrick's Day!!! I hope your rainbow and pot of gold are under your nose too!!
Luck and Life to ya! (and love too!)
* feta ='s "fed up", get it? He can never be "feta" with me? Baaaahahahahahaahahahahahah
Sure, earrings rock, but REAL is Priceless!
Ok, so Neoteric introduced me once again to a cool blog! When I'm not preoccupied with writing out the struggles and feelings of my soul, my searching, the use of positive thinking, prayers, and my answers :) I love a GOOD LAUGH. I love sarcasm, and wit, and being REAL!! I think the last time I used any of that was here.
But heck, why should I apologize for anything I blog? Didn't I mention I like REAL? Well, honest, real and funny is what you get with Scary Mommy. FUNNY Lady, and so cool! Plus, she inspires my IRL friends, so that is a whopping big thing in my book! Sure, she's toying us with jewelry, but FORGET that - I'm just on a quest for filling my blog roll with people who inspire me and brighten my day. So Run. Go. Check out and subscribe to Scary Mommy! Because, yet again....
I SAID SO!!!
But heck, why should I apologize for anything I blog? Didn't I mention I like REAL? Well, honest, real and funny is what you get with Scary Mommy. FUNNY Lady, and so cool! Plus, she inspires my IRL friends, so that is a whopping big thing in my book! Sure, she's toying us with jewelry, but FORGET that - I'm just on a quest for filling my blog roll with people who inspire me and brighten my day. So Run. Go. Check out and subscribe to Scary Mommy! Because, yet again....
I SAID SO!!!
Lent Day 18
Thanks for wading through my reflective thoughts yesterday (below). Today's meditation from here is almost yelling at me. Many of the struggles I have focus on my affirmation needs. How funny how that is being addressed today. Maybe I'm not alone in my struggle? Plus, you gotta love JPII's message (I've never heard of someone modern loving young people, marriage and family more!), and I think after nap time, I'll be able to address "give" in a very fun way!
And with no further adieu:
And with no further adieu:
Fast: Stop looking for encouragement and approval. Genuinely encourage and affirm someone else instead.
Pray: Take this quote to prayer today and listen to God’s answer: “Real love is demanding. I would fail in my mission if I did not tell you so. Love demands a personal commitment to the will of God.” — John Paul II
Give: Let your child choose a huge stack of picture books (use that word “huge” when you ask her to gather them). Read them all to her today.
Much love!!!!Monday, March 16, 2009
Need a laugh?
Head on over to BECAUSE I SAID SO!
Check out the Indiana Jones entry.
Go.
Now.
Why???
BECAUSE I SAID SO (oh be quiet, you knew I had to say it!!)
This is how I'd write everyday if I could! ;)
Check out the Indiana Jones entry.
Go.
Now.
Why???
BECAUSE I SAID SO (oh be quiet, you knew I had to say it!!)
This is how I'd write everyday if I could! ;)
More Reflective Thoughts
Howdy!! I'm trying to stay awake before getting the kids awake from naps in a while, and ready them for Lovely's 1st piano lesson (if I nap, we'll never leave on time). What better way to perk me up than reflect on some life and lenten lessons for the soul? There are so many lessons and "mixed" messages when we look at our own lives and how to fit these inspirations into them.
This week in reading my "Daily Word" I came upon two themes - "refresh" and "heart blessing". It's funny, some ladies I know (and me too) are reading a book called Captivating that helps women spiritually heal and embrace ourselves as beautiful expressions of God, and the themes were there too!! Here are some thoughts on both that inspired me (and lately, there have been things in my own life, or those closest to me, that seem to keep getting the same type of messages over and over. I think He is trying to tell me something!):
refresh
~ "Today I may feel a desire for a fresh outlook on life; to adopt new healthful habits or rekindle a relationship. Renewal can take place in ways that hold the prospect of greater strength and vibrance. As I commit to seeing someone or something in a new way - honoring myself by doing whatever nurtures my mind and body or sharing time with a special someone - I am replenished in mind, body, and soul....my spiritual rejuvenation is a celebration of God's presence within me...I honor my worth. I meditate in a peaceful silence... or music, or the sounds of nature."
To me that says, I'm worth it. I need to CHOOSE to adopt new ways of feeling and thinking. Feelings are a choice, and if they are bringing me down, I need to risk the pain and make the choice to open myself to God, or the universe, the Spirit....to what renews me. Release it and free myself. In doing so I honor myself, even if others do not honor me. And, God's presence in me strengthens me. People let us down. Many times or always....but God does not. He is the strength that holds us up - He is in the words or actions of others that give us peace - He is always there knocking, waiting to be let in - not barging in to save us (idea from the book Captivating). When I feel refreshed and renewed, it is God within me, feeding me in ways no person EVER can.
heart blessing
~ "As strong and reliable as my heart is, my feelings have an incredible impact on it...my heart is a physical expression of my consciousness. When I feel positive...this organ is calm. It relates with mind and body in healthy, renewing ways. My love and intuition are heart-connected. And so I practice loving, positive thinking, and acting. I forgive others, and I also forgive myself. I give myself expression to the love of God within me. With each thought and action, I bless my heart and, at the same time, I am also blessing others in a heartfelt way."
Again, I feel moved to a choice. A choice to find the positive whenever I feel personally insecure (which is a lot!!), troubled, stressed, alone. I need to find a way to practice love of myself and my thoughts, because my thoughts are what get me in TROUBLE ("so and so must think _____ of me", "Oh! I made him so mad" or "She thinks I'm so spoiled/clueless/silly")! When I can manage that (so easier said than done!) I am letting myself feel what God always feels...love for ME. I give his love expression. He wants to forgive me, so I need to give myself the same break! I need to show my worth, my beauty, show how captivating I am.
I need to keep working on this...letting go, letting God, letting myself off the hook, letting me be FREE and above any stress in my life. Hmmm.....that I need to pray about and for. Am I up to that challenge?? These thoughts are so beautiful, so GLORIFYING and fantastically happy...I deserve to feel all those things too. Cause I am so worth it!! So are you, if you are reading this!!
And, of course - God is still telling me how to do the above - with acts found below, in these meditations (link citation below)! Some are easy, so are challenging, all help me grow!!
Lent Day 16
This week in reading my "Daily Word" I came upon two themes - "refresh" and "heart blessing". It's funny, some ladies I know (and me too) are reading a book called Captivating that helps women spiritually heal and embrace ourselves as beautiful expressions of God, and the themes were there too!! Here are some thoughts on both that inspired me (and lately, there have been things in my own life, or those closest to me, that seem to keep getting the same type of messages over and over. I think He is trying to tell me something!):
refresh
~ "Today I may feel a desire for a fresh outlook on life; to adopt new healthful habits or rekindle a relationship. Renewal can take place in ways that hold the prospect of greater strength and vibrance. As I commit to seeing someone or something in a new way - honoring myself by doing whatever nurtures my mind and body or sharing time with a special someone - I am replenished in mind, body, and soul....my spiritual rejuvenation is a celebration of God's presence within me...I honor my worth. I meditate in a peaceful silence... or music, or the sounds of nature."
To me that says, I'm worth it. I need to CHOOSE to adopt new ways of feeling and thinking. Feelings are a choice, and if they are bringing me down, I need to risk the pain and make the choice to open myself to God, or the universe, the Spirit....to what renews me. Release it and free myself. In doing so I honor myself, even if others do not honor me. And, God's presence in me strengthens me. People let us down. Many times or always....but God does not. He is the strength that holds us up - He is in the words or actions of others that give us peace - He is always there knocking, waiting to be let in - not barging in to save us (idea from the book Captivating). When I feel refreshed and renewed, it is God within me, feeding me in ways no person EVER can.
heart blessing
~ "As strong and reliable as my heart is, my feelings have an incredible impact on it...my heart is a physical expression of my consciousness. When I feel positive...this organ is calm. It relates with mind and body in healthy, renewing ways. My love and intuition are heart-connected. And so I practice loving, positive thinking, and acting. I forgive others, and I also forgive myself. I give myself expression to the love of God within me. With each thought and action, I bless my heart and, at the same time, I am also blessing others in a heartfelt way."
Again, I feel moved to a choice. A choice to find the positive whenever I feel personally insecure (which is a lot!!), troubled, stressed, alone. I need to find a way to practice love of myself and my thoughts, because my thoughts are what get me in TROUBLE ("so and so must think _____ of me", "Oh! I made him so mad" or "She thinks I'm so spoiled/clueless/silly")! When I can manage that (so easier said than done!) I am letting myself feel what God always feels...love for ME. I give his love expression. He wants to forgive me, so I need to give myself the same break! I need to show my worth, my beauty, show how captivating I am.
I need to keep working on this...letting go, letting God, letting myself off the hook, letting me be FREE and above any stress in my life. Hmmm.....that I need to pray about and for. Am I up to that challenge?? These thoughts are so beautiful, so GLORIFYING and fantastically happy...I deserve to feel all those things too. Cause I am so worth it!! So are you, if you are reading this!!
*****
And, of course - God is still telling me how to do the above - with acts found below, in these meditations (link citation below)! Some are easy, so are challenging, all help me grow!!
Lent Day 16
Fast: Think of someone whose life you are tempted to envy and then choke out these words: “Thank you, God, for the blessings you have given to X. Give her more. And help me to see my own.”
Pray: Take a walk, even if it’s cold or raining. Leave your iPod at home.
Give: Think about the kind of person your husband married. Be that person for him today.
Lent Day 17 (Today's)
Fast: As you go about your daily round today, remember that you are expecting someone very important for dinner tonight. Together with your children, work towards your husband’s homecoming as if you were expecting to welcome a king back to his castle.
Pray: “Love consumes us only in the measure of our self-surrender.” — St. Therese
Give: “You can do nothing with children unless you win their confidence and love by bringing them into touch with oneself, by breaking through all the hindrances that keep them at a distance. We must accommodate ourselves to their tastes, we must make ourselves like them.” — St. John Bosco Do something they want you to do with them today.
I have to say - before one thinks that none of us are allowed to stand our ground by reading the above, remember the context!!! The above is a sacrifice to do if we don't feel like doing it. Hence the term SACRIFICE. At the same time, we are allowed anger and courage to fight for what is right for our families and ourselves to achieve what God wants for us, and expects. The same place I get these meditations also posted a reminder from this past Sunday's Gospel reading along with a challenge for the readers. Like Jesus, we can defend our honor and self worth because we are worthy enough to let others know that worth. We deserve to be treated with love and respect as we are called for others. See below:And making a whip of cords, He drove them all, with the sheep and oxen, out of the temple; and he poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables.
-- John 2:15
Give us zeal, O lord. Give us righteous anger. Give us moral courage.
Thanks for letting me hash out some of my feelings and callings today. I don't know if anyone reads them, but it is so freeing to just write and say them, pray them, and let them go! :)
(Hey, things like this keep me having "a rosey outlook on life!")
Many prayers!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Why April will be a fun Month!
********
And below, 3 big reasons why I'm ready for my house to be well. They are missed. So close by, yet so far away.....I hope we can see them before April. HA!
Cheers ya'll!!
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