Oh goodness....she is so good at a gaffe.
We were over at Aunt JiJi's this week, babysitting E, and when JiJi came home from her workout book camp and sat down to play with all the girls, Lovely looked over at me and said:
L - "Oh mommy! I can't wait for my baby brother to come out!!"
Me - "I know...yeah!!"
L - [Looking over at JiJi slumped on the floor] "Aunt JiJi - do YOU have a baby in your tummy too?"
J - [laughter] "Um, no Rachael, no one is in my tummy yet."
Now, Lovely has asked this before of women, and usually the above is it....but of course NOT this time.....and it was so funny she asked this POST workout when everyone usually feels so good about themselves hehe!
L - [looking closely at JiJi's tummy, which, she and I could both honestly say in her slumping position, showed off that "mommy roll" we ALL have post birth that NEVER leaves....] "But....I can SEE something there that looks like a baby.....are you sure?"
HAHAHAHAAH. Wow! Thanks Lovely....so much. Sorry Aunt JiJi - we love you!!!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Friday, January 29, 2010
Elliot is a big brother again too!
Remember Elliot of "99 Balloons" (incredible story....).
Like Allie, he's an angel now - but a big brother for the 2nd time. He and his little sister Hazel have a new baby brother - click here!
What is it about grace filled people looking so BEAUTIFUL! I swear the Moonies are so good looking and radiate grace and strength. God is Good!
Congrats!
Like Allie, he's an angel now - but a big brother for the 2nd time. He and his little sister Hazel have a new baby brother - click here!
What is it about grace filled people looking so BEAUTIFUL! I swear the Moonies are so good looking and radiate grace and strength. God is Good!
Congrats!
Friday Five - Imagination Edition
1. Well, I'll just jump right on in to the Friday Five for this week. I'm SO glad it is Friday. I woke up with a "sore-ish" throat with the feeling of an on-coming cold. I think I may take a hot steamy shower in a bit (the type where I'll enjoy it, do my hair, but when I'm done - won't dry it all "perfectly" - I'll do this just for the warmth), enjoy some hot tea, and keep checking back to see if I am hosting a Friday playgroup LOL. I have a daily Friday playgroup - and sometimes it is packed, other times non-attended, and some days the non-attendance is a hidden blessing. I haven't heard about any RSVPs for today, so maybe this happened for a reason. I can then nap with Valiant when she goes down and hope my body recoops before our workout at 3pm.
2. Regardless of how I'm feeling, I still have so much to do in this house by President's weekend with out of town family coming. Plus, I really can "let things go" easily, and Hubby is not a Mr. Fix it (we're artsy folks lol that don't stretch ourselves much HAHA) and we end up living with things easily - but that others who visit don't probably appreciate. So, I hope we can get things done this weekend, along with some rest.
3. We have a fun weekend planned aside from working and organizing. Tonight is a fun family movie night. We could even have a special visitor sleep over for it! Regardless, it will hopefully be fun, relaxed, and a good excuse for a fun dinner and fun breakfast! Saturday night the girls will BOTH have their first sleepover at the SAME time with their grandparents. Lovely goes weekly on the weekends for a sleepover with them, but Valiant has never gone (she's a lot of work for older grandparents) and they really wanted to try it. So while Hubby and I go to a Trivia night at my old high school with old alumni friends (should be a BLAST), the girls will enjoy their Mema and Pop. We will get them before Mass on Sunday and enjoy the morning together with them too! I hope it works out!!
4. I need to make some new goals for next week. This last week was not my best in so many areas. I feel I've gotten a bit distracted by the world and I need to get back to a more upward and inward focus. I've been doing some readings and quiet time, but I need to do more - maybe get out some - Adoration? Confession? I need to do something. It's hitting me Lent is coming up in a month and I should prepare for it (why do the seasons fly by so fast??!!) including kid activities, family time, recipes, etc to bring the season alive. I find myself happiest when I am doing things with my family that could become family traditions and ones that incorporate faith too. It just feeds me. I'd also love to plan a Lenten Dinner on a Friday with friends. Our church does a Fish Fry every Friday which always (while wonderful) distracts me from planning a dinner (and this year Hubby may have to work at them) - so I'll see if this happens. I could also see what friends would want to meet us at the fish dinner weekly. But for our house, I'm thinking a meatless pot luck, and any friends could come if they wanted - no matter their faith walk. Just some fellowship and sharing. We'll see if that happens....just thinking about this is a boost!
5. The girls have been SO cute this week! Valiant has started doing big bear hugs around the neck and saying "Hi Dare" among other cute new things. This morning we spent a good hour cuddling in the rocker just singing songs and hugging and talking. My heart just melted! Lovely has had a very creative week . Yesterday she got a bit too creative at school and we had to do some make up assignments last night for homework. I hope she learned a lesson with that one LOL! But, she has been so creative. One of my highlights this week was her playing dress up by herself. She put on one of her favorite play dresses (she wore it at her B-day tea) and found a crown and shoes and came downstairs to tell me something important. She basically said:
L - "Mommy, do you know all the Disney Princesses, like Princesses Ariel, Tiana, Pocahontas, Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Mulan, [etc...]"
Me - "of course!"
L - "Well, I'm the NEWEST Disney Princess!!"
Me - "Really?" So, who are you exactly?"
L - "well, me of course and how I look, but I go by Princess "SheShe". (not sure how she wants it spelled. I should have asked!)
I just have to say I loved this. Instead of being one of the princesses already created, she created her own - based on herself, knowing she really is beautiful just the way she is. I was really touched by that. So as I close up this entry to go take care of myself some - here are some pictures of the "newest" Disney Princess, but who has always been OUR princess:
and, of COURSE we need a dramatic coma scene...lol!
Keep dreaming sweetheart! Blessings!!
2. Regardless of how I'm feeling, I still have so much to do in this house by President's weekend with out of town family coming. Plus, I really can "let things go" easily, and Hubby is not a Mr. Fix it (we're artsy folks lol that don't stretch ourselves much HAHA) and we end up living with things easily - but that others who visit don't probably appreciate. So, I hope we can get things done this weekend, along with some rest.
3. We have a fun weekend planned aside from working and organizing. Tonight is a fun family movie night. We could even have a special visitor sleep over for it! Regardless, it will hopefully be fun, relaxed, and a good excuse for a fun dinner and fun breakfast! Saturday night the girls will BOTH have their first sleepover at the SAME time with their grandparents. Lovely goes weekly on the weekends for a sleepover with them, but Valiant has never gone (she's a lot of work for older grandparents) and they really wanted to try it. So while Hubby and I go to a Trivia night at my old high school with old alumni friends (should be a BLAST), the girls will enjoy their Mema and Pop. We will get them before Mass on Sunday and enjoy the morning together with them too! I hope it works out!!
4. I need to make some new goals for next week. This last week was not my best in so many areas. I feel I've gotten a bit distracted by the world and I need to get back to a more upward and inward focus. I've been doing some readings and quiet time, but I need to do more - maybe get out some - Adoration? Confession? I need to do something. It's hitting me Lent is coming up in a month and I should prepare for it (why do the seasons fly by so fast??!!) including kid activities, family time, recipes, etc to bring the season alive. I find myself happiest when I am doing things with my family that could become family traditions and ones that incorporate faith too. It just feeds me. I'd also love to plan a Lenten Dinner on a Friday with friends. Our church does a Fish Fry every Friday which always (while wonderful) distracts me from planning a dinner (and this year Hubby may have to work at them) - so I'll see if this happens. I could also see what friends would want to meet us at the fish dinner weekly. But for our house, I'm thinking a meatless pot luck, and any friends could come if they wanted - no matter their faith walk. Just some fellowship and sharing. We'll see if that happens....just thinking about this is a boost!
5. The girls have been SO cute this week! Valiant has started doing big bear hugs around the neck and saying "Hi Dare" among other cute new things. This morning we spent a good hour cuddling in the rocker just singing songs and hugging and talking. My heart just melted! Lovely has had a very creative week . Yesterday she got a bit too creative at school and we had to do some make up assignments last night for homework. I hope she learned a lesson with that one LOL! But, she has been so creative. One of my highlights this week was her playing dress up by herself. She put on one of her favorite play dresses (she wore it at her B-day tea) and found a crown and shoes and came downstairs to tell me something important. She basically said:
L - "Mommy, do you know all the Disney Princesses, like Princesses Ariel, Tiana, Pocahontas, Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Mulan, [etc...]"
Me - "of course!"
L - "Well, I'm the NEWEST Disney Princess!!"
Me - "Really?" So, who are you exactly?"
L - "well, me of course and how I look, but I go by Princess "SheShe". (not sure how she wants it spelled. I should have asked!)
I just have to say I loved this. Instead of being one of the princesses already created, she created her own - based on herself, knowing she really is beautiful just the way she is. I was really touched by that. So as I close up this entry to go take care of myself some - here are some pictures of the "newest" Disney Princess, but who has always been OUR princess:
and, of COURSE we need a dramatic coma scene...lol!
Keep dreaming sweetheart! Blessings!!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Remember Baby Allie?
Wow - time flies.
When Lovely was just a baby, I followed the gripping family blog about a sweet, sweet baby named Allie. She was diagnosed at 4 months old with AML and died a few months later after a valiant fight, and touching a nation and world. Her mother's amazing writing left thousands of us checking every evening for news, and united so many in prayer and cause for battling cancer.
Well - Allie became a big sister again. Click here for pictures. Wow. Wow. Wow. The best ones are middle sister and baby sister meeting each other for the 1st time....makes me tear up. Also how Daddy has all 3 of his daughters' foot prints on his scrubs.
What a beautiful family.
When Lovely was just a baby, I followed the gripping family blog about a sweet, sweet baby named Allie. She was diagnosed at 4 months old with AML and died a few months later after a valiant fight, and touching a nation and world. Her mother's amazing writing left thousands of us checking every evening for news, and united so many in prayer and cause for battling cancer.
Well - Allie became a big sister again. Click here for pictures. Wow. Wow. Wow. The best ones are middle sister and baby sister meeting each other for the 1st time....makes me tear up. Also how Daddy has all 3 of his daughters' foot prints on his scrubs.
What a beautiful family.
Small Successes and Thankful Thursday - "Getting There" Edition
Whew!!! It has been some week. It's had wonderful ups and some bummer downs that made me burned out from blogging on my own blog - but I've found success too!! We are looking at a pretty good weekend ahead. Hubby and I have a group date night at my old high school for an alumni event - it should be fun! Gotta love Trivia night (that's the alumni theme for the evening, so we made a team of old friends to compete! Though, I think I should pass my neighbor buddy off as a classmate of ours because she and her husband are AMAZING at trivia...LOL!). But we're trying to get caught up with massive house organization projects. We need to get our freezer fixed, new knobs on the ancient oven, I'd love to finally fix the dishwasher door instead of propping it tight lol, purge and organize, clean, and paint some trim. A good motivator is out of town family coming Presidents Weekend...so we'll see. I'd like to get some flowers (good for a southern winter AND don't need a lot of water or TLC from me lol) for my front porch pot, and fix up the yard again. We had a sick baby in the house this weekend and no heat because of a billing glitch (to further explain...I thought it was our light was out - but the guy came and said it had to do with autopay? Is that why they took days to come out???), so I had a lot of catchup to do with my sink overflowing with dishes, laundry, house straightening. But we survived!
But, I'm rambling . What has gotten done this week?
1. Tonight's dinner is already cooking! Seasoned ribs! For sure I'll steam some veggies with it, but maybe I'll do this recipe too - a friend just told me about this yesterday at a preK meeting. She RAVED about them! Compared to ones you would buy, they are MUCH healthier!
2. I got behind on laundry again....but with the family's help we are all folded and caught up (barring one tiny load I'll do today and fold this evening). But, it was a huge problem! It feels so good to have it done!
3. I also straightened the house yesterday. Not a deep clean, and I'm so lost where we are in Flylady this week cause of illness, but after working out with S yesterday I was done with all the adult and Lovely made clutter backing up from the weekend. She cleaned her room after we had a stern talk about sharing, being gracious to playdate friends and NOT bullying (oye oye!) , as well as cleaning her room better than she has been. It looks great, and I did the same with most rooms in the house. My dining room table is still a hot spot - but I'll attack it soon.
I'm SO ready for a nap today. I love we have no plans till before dinner and Val and I can stay in. I think we'll be napping soon and for hopefully most of the morning. I'm having one of those weeks dealing with different family issues, hormones, other stuff, and the power of the UNspoken word and the effects, and it messes with my emotions. It's given me a lot to pray about, think about, and reflect on. It's also a good exercise on letting go of my worries - and BOY my emotional muscles hurt from the workout LOL! The whole week reminds me how fallible I am and I don't know it all - even in my own family. Wait...aren't I supposed to be right all the time? No? Really? LOL!
Check back tomorrow - I hope to load some pics of Lovely's new imagined character. I love that girl!!!
Thankful Thursday
This week I'm most grateful for...
1. my friends.
2. the ability to talk differences out via a discussion, NOT a debate.
3. my husband who is so patient with me while I go hormonal.
4. face to face interaction!
5. my wonderful God, who is waiting to be placed back into His rightful position on my priorities this week....sorry Almighty Dude! (and wow...look...he's #5 on my list. When will I learn?)
6. my girls...Valiant started giving bear hugs this week and saying "Hi Dare" as she waves, and Lovely who has been so fun this week with her creativity.
7. my 25 week developing son, kicking away as I type. I'm so excited!! Keep on growing boy!!
8. for a healthy pregnancy thus far - AMEN!
How was your week? What are you thankful for?
Much love!!!
But, I'm rambling . What has gotten done this week?
1. Tonight's dinner is already cooking! Seasoned ribs! For sure I'll steam some veggies with it, but maybe I'll do this recipe too - a friend just told me about this yesterday at a preK meeting. She RAVED about them! Compared to ones you would buy, they are MUCH healthier!
2. I got behind on laundry again....but with the family's help we are all folded and caught up (barring one tiny load I'll do today and fold this evening). But, it was a huge problem! It feels so good to have it done!
3. I also straightened the house yesterday. Not a deep clean, and I'm so lost where we are in Flylady this week cause of illness, but after working out with S yesterday I was done with all the adult and Lovely made clutter backing up from the weekend. She cleaned her room after we had a stern talk about sharing, being gracious to playdate friends and NOT bullying (oye oye!) , as well as cleaning her room better than she has been. It looks great, and I did the same with most rooms in the house. My dining room table is still a hot spot - but I'll attack it soon.
I'm SO ready for a nap today. I love we have no plans till before dinner and Val and I can stay in. I think we'll be napping soon and for hopefully most of the morning. I'm having one of those weeks dealing with different family issues, hormones, other stuff, and the power of the UNspoken word and the effects, and it messes with my emotions. It's given me a lot to pray about, think about, and reflect on. It's also a good exercise on letting go of my worries - and BOY my emotional muscles hurt from the workout LOL! The whole week reminds me how fallible I am and I don't know it all - even in my own family. Wait...aren't I supposed to be right all the time? No? Really? LOL!
Check back tomorrow - I hope to load some pics of Lovely's new imagined character. I love that girl!!!
Thankful Thursday
This week I'm most grateful for...
1. my friends.
2. the ability to talk differences out via a discussion, NOT a debate.
3. my husband who is so patient with me while I go hormonal.
4. face to face interaction!
5. my wonderful God, who is waiting to be placed back into His rightful position on my priorities this week....sorry Almighty Dude! (and wow...look...he's #5 on my list. When will I learn?)
6. my girls...Valiant started giving bear hugs this week and saying "Hi Dare" as she waves, and Lovely who has been so fun this week with her creativity.
7. my 25 week developing son, kicking away as I type. I'm so excited!! Keep on growing boy!!
8. for a healthy pregnancy thus far - AMEN!
How was your week? What are you thankful for?
Much love!!!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Love Turtles? Love Babies?
If you love both...you HAVE to read this.....
"Here Here!"
I also have something to repost if I can find it in my own e-mail. I hope I can do that soon. If not, the above link says it all!
Much love!
"Here Here!"
I also have something to repost if I can find it in my own e-mail. I hope I can do that soon. If not, the above link says it all!
Much love!
March on...and the Friday Five
It's been quite a week. I'm ready to rest. Last night was not our best "sleep" night, and with the cold, wet weather - even my bones are cold. I think a little extra rest today is in order.
1. Today I'm praying for all those who are locally marching, and those marching in DC or are reflecting at home and praying for Life. Today marks a silent day of prayer and peaceful protest against abortion all around the nation, for remembering the unborn, giving them a voice, and offering love and support to women who suffer from the effects of abortion. I can't imagine or judge the struggle one goes through with such a decision - and I know Jesus would offer firm, but compassionate action for anyone thinking of abortion vs harsh words of judgement. Our culture supports a "just do it" mentality and can trick women into feeling they get more support from a clinic than their fellow human brother or sister. I wish there was a way to boost the blessing of adoption for women who can bravely make that hard, emotional choice to give their baby to a nurturing family rather than aborting that wee soul...I wish I had the answer. All I have is prayer. And, even in my home today, I silently pray and march with others - and thank those that have chosen life, chosen adoption, and I extend my love and prayer to those who suffer from the choice of their abortions.
2. I'm looking forward to a nap later (last night was just not a good night for sleep) and I'm fearful of another cold coming on thus bringing on ANOTHER sinus infection. I just got more rested and healthy again. I pray I can keep it that way. Health is everything. I think about that every time I watch the news on Haiti, or see the weather report and think about those homeless or those struggling with little or no heat in this weather in their homes.
3. I can't wait to work out later. I need the boost both from endorphins and teamwork in working out. There was going to be a supper club GNO, but I think we ladies will have to reschedule, so I value the adult connections in my life and miss when they don't happen!! But that's ok - I'd rather get a night where everyone can come from the group, and as for working out with a wonderful friend - awesome! Oh - and a good calorie burn!!
4. I do think though we'll be having a good family night. We may eat out somewhere, and Lovely wants to sleep over with her Mema tonight to get a haircut with her tomorrow. I know it will be so cute when it is done!!!!
5. I'm glad it is a rather quiet weekend. We have SO much to get done before family comes to stay with us in February!!! ACK!!!! Plus, you know how I love napping...LOL!
Gotta run! TGIF and keep the faith!!!!
Much love.
1. Today I'm praying for all those who are locally marching, and those marching in DC or are reflecting at home and praying for Life. Today marks a silent day of prayer and peaceful protest against abortion all around the nation, for remembering the unborn, giving them a voice, and offering love and support to women who suffer from the effects of abortion. I can't imagine or judge the struggle one goes through with such a decision - and I know Jesus would offer firm, but compassionate action for anyone thinking of abortion vs harsh words of judgement. Our culture supports a "just do it" mentality and can trick women into feeling they get more support from a clinic than their fellow human brother or sister. I wish there was a way to boost the blessing of adoption for women who can bravely make that hard, emotional choice to give their baby to a nurturing family rather than aborting that wee soul...I wish I had the answer. All I have is prayer. And, even in my home today, I silently pray and march with others - and thank those that have chosen life, chosen adoption, and I extend my love and prayer to those who suffer from the choice of their abortions.
2. I'm looking forward to a nap later (last night was just not a good night for sleep) and I'm fearful of another cold coming on thus bringing on ANOTHER sinus infection. I just got more rested and healthy again. I pray I can keep it that way. Health is everything. I think about that every time I watch the news on Haiti, or see the weather report and think about those homeless or those struggling with little or no heat in this weather in their homes.
3. I can't wait to work out later. I need the boost both from endorphins and teamwork in working out. There was going to be a supper club GNO, but I think we ladies will have to reschedule, so I value the adult connections in my life and miss when they don't happen!! But that's ok - I'd rather get a night where everyone can come from the group, and as for working out with a wonderful friend - awesome! Oh - and a good calorie burn!!
4. I do think though we'll be having a good family night. We may eat out somewhere, and Lovely wants to sleep over with her Mema tonight to get a haircut with her tomorrow. I know it will be so cute when it is done!!!!
5. I'm glad it is a rather quiet weekend. We have SO much to get done before family comes to stay with us in February!!! ACK!!!! Plus, you know how I love napping...LOL!
Gotta run! TGIF and keep the faith!!!!
Much love.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Small Successes and Thankful Thursday - "Busy" Edition
YAWN! Good morning. I'm trying to wake up. 4 day weeks just fly by and I've been so busy. I've barely had time for reading online. Hopefully today I can make the rounds!
It's been a good week though. Full of fun activities, and lots of rest. I'm 24 weeks! I'm starting to feel (and look) pregnant and even though I'm full of energy, I know rest is important. I sometimes wonder how I taught full time when I was preggo with Lovely, as I felt I could do anything. Now, when we have 1-2 days a week (or in a row) of activity before she comes home from school I feel so tired. I need those other lazy days for naps with Valiant to catch up. Today will be one of those days as it is raining...perfect for cozy rest!!!
Now...have I succeeded at anything this week?
1. I'm still cooking! I need to get better about menus planning, but I have been cooking this week. Yesterday's 'crocking' will totally feed us this evening, so that is a great feeling. I may need to share it cause it made so much! Anyone ever had someone give them "Friendship Soup" as a gift at Christmas? That's what I made....I just added meat. It is a good meal!
2. I've taken the time to see friends this week! I've kept up my workouts with S which are great, and we had a MNI (moms night in) Tuesday. Friday night could yield another GNO with some friends from our supper group. The only price I pay for all these activities is needing more naps, but that's ok to me!
3. I've kept up with housework with Hubby's help. We're doing Flylady (master bedroom!) and it feels good to tackle dusting and cleaning. I even found dust on my walls (??????) YUCK! The downstairs has stayed under control, as has the laundry. That feels good!
Bonus forth - I've been doing more reflective time this week - prayer, meditating, reading. It's made a difference in my spirit. Also, this is my Hubby's success, but I'm proud of him for finding a service niche for himself....he had his initiation into the Knights of Columbus last evening and took the 1st and 2nd degrees. He joined with some other young guys and seemed excited. He'll do the 3rd degree this weekend and then they are going to start their service and volunteering. We'll see where it takes him, but I am so glad he seemed so happy.
And, I'm repeating last week's Thankful list because I still feel VERY Thankful for it as I watch the news, pray for Haiti, and my community. I feel so grateful.
Thankful Thursday
This week I'm thankful for...
1. my health.
2. the ability to see, hear, walk, run, feel, smell, and taste.
3. having enough clean water and food to drink and eat, while having access to medical care.
4. the ability to keep my children warm, fed, and protected.
5. the health of my husband.
6. the health of my children.
7. my husband's job and our home.
8. miracles big and small.
Much love!!!!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Wordless Wednesday - "ABC" Edition
Val and I on a Mommy/Daughter Date to playtime at the local library - our 1st time at their toddler program (yesterday)! So cute! I loved time with my baby girl!Monday, January 18, 2010
More Hope for the Dream
Take some time today to have a "day on" not a "day off". We've come so far, and have so far to go.
This has been posted on many sites today, so come join in.
This has been posted on many sites today, so come join in.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
BOOS and YAYS for the long weekend!
Boo - Haitian Earthquake. The Haitians are NEVER far from my family's mind. Keep praying!
YAY - so many uniting to help Haiti in prayer, donations, and support. Can the world keep this up in all areas of giving?
Boo - it's a VERY rainy, dreary day with no real time to nap (for mommy lol).
YAY - a perfect day for family time, Wii Sports Resort/Workout, & homemade oreo cheesecake!
Boo - having oreos in the house. I've already eaten 3...must save for the cheesecake!
YAY - knowing that later on, they'll make that great dessert for our church's Supper Club tonight!
Boo - driving 50 minutes in this dreary weather.
YAY - spending time with my sister & fam before bringing my niece back home to babysit for tonight's Supper Club.
Boo - Sunday will be busier than I usually like it to be & the "long" weekend will seem too short.
YAY - it will be filled with Mass, newborn twin visit, lunch with 2 old friends, and a reason to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
"A Day ON, not a day off."
Much love!!!
YAY - so many uniting to help Haiti in prayer, donations, and support. Can the world keep this up in all areas of giving?
Boo - it's a VERY rainy, dreary day with no real time to nap (for mommy lol).
YAY - a perfect day for family time, Wii Sports Resort/Workout, & homemade oreo cheesecake!
Boo - having oreos in the house. I've already eaten 3...must save for the cheesecake!
YAY - knowing that later on, they'll make that great dessert for our church's Supper Club tonight!
Boo - driving 50 minutes in this dreary weather.
YAY - spending time with my sister & fam before bringing my niece back home to babysit for tonight's Supper Club.
Boo - Sunday will be busier than I usually like it to be & the "long" weekend will seem too short.
YAY - it will be filled with Mass, newborn twin visit, lunch with 2 old friends, and a reason to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
"A Day ON, not a day off."
Much love!!!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Small Successes and Thankful Thursday - "Mindful" Edition
Pray for Haiti. Need ideas and links for donations? Go here to The Anchoress.
Also...something this devastation has reminded me of. When the clean up begins, and the cameras leave and another news stories takes the headlines, remember Haiti. Pray and give. Also remember those in need around you - we get so used to the devastation around us that we don't see it anymore. Does it have to take the earth moving under our feet to see it?
*************
1. S and I have kept our work out schedule! It's been so nice and empowering to do something for both our physical health, and get some endorphins that boost our emotional help too. It has helped I've finally felt better! I can breathe, and I've been sleeping better. This week has been so much better. I feel so blessed.
2. The laundry is under control!!! I've kept up with it this week! YAY!
3. I've gotten back to cooking this week, and cooking healthy. It's been so satisfying to make some meals for my family. Tonight I made homemade whole grain chicken enchiladas and guacamole salad. After a tough news day, sitting around the table with my family with a hot meal was VERY gratifying. I'm immensely grateful. See pics below!
Thankful Thursday
This week I'm thankful for...
1. my health.
2. the ability to see, hear, walk, run, feel, smell, and taste.
3. having enough clean water and food to drink and eat, while having access to medical care.
4. the ability to keep my children warm, fed, and protected.
5. the health of my husband.
6. the health of my children.
7. my husband's job and our home.
8. miracles big and small.
Much love!!!!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
No Words...Just Tears
Oh Good Lord. I just saw the newest "Breaking News" on the earthquake (and TERRIBLE aftershocks) in Haiti. The images on the screen made me weep. I held Val and openly cried. It is like a whole country has been destroyed.
Hundreds of Thousands are feared dead.
Thousands orphaned.
Images of women and babies...sobbing, bleeding.
The Archbishop of Haiti feared dead.
No hospitals.
No airport.
People crying in the streets.
Common folk digging others out.
And yet...images of crying people also singing praises to Jesus and dancing in the street....how strong faith is where poverty abounds. It's like they know something the rest of us don't REALLY know. When you have little, you really have it all because you know Who has you.
My heart weeps, my eyes weep, and really...there are no words.
Pray for Haiti.
Hundreds of Thousands are feared dead.
Thousands orphaned.
Images of women and babies...sobbing, bleeding.
The Archbishop of Haiti feared dead.
No hospitals.
No airport.
People crying in the streets.
Common folk digging others out.
And yet...images of crying people also singing praises to Jesus and dancing in the street....how strong faith is where poverty abounds. It's like they know something the rest of us don't REALLY know. When you have little, you really have it all because you know Who has you.
My heart weeps, my eyes weep, and really...there are no words.
Pray for Haiti.
Wordless Wednesday - "Circle of Life" Edition
Lovely's toys....she LOVES her miniatures. I found this in her room the other day. I wonder what they are planning....thoughts? Speculations? haha!
Happy Wednesday!!
Happy Wednesday!!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Day Book - Monday Morning Edition
Outside my window... sunrise and COLD air :)
I am thinking…how nice it is Hubby folded laundry last night - what a nice surprise to wake up to!
I am thankful for…my current medication working for my sinuses.
From the kitchen…we just had breakfast - cereal and fruit. Lunch will be sandwiches, and dinner probably soup.
I am wearing…socks, PJ pants, t-shirt.
I am going...to drive Lovely and school soon.
I am reading...the new Daily Word and I need to check out The Uglies for my book club.
I am hoping…that I maybe make it to coffee this morning with Valiant with other moms. We'll see!
I am hearing...Curious George and Lovely finishing her banana (yes, that DOES create sounds lol).
I am creating…a new fitness plan - working out 3 times a week (nailed down for sure) with my friend S on the Wii Active in the afternoon - MWF. We may try for Tuesdays too, but that is a rushed day. She may do yoga that day instead.
I am praying… for family, friends, and myself. I've been getting anxious again about "anything" (attack of the hormones?) so I just need to breathe, pray, and relax.
Around the house…trying to keep it clean! Organized! De-stressed. Not really working...lol!
One of my favorite things…naps!!!! LOVE naps!
I am pondering...a dinner plan for this week.
A “picture thought” I’m sharing…
This is a pic I just found lol! Gotta love little girl friendships! They are playing "Guess Who."
Have a Great week!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Financial Planning for 2010
Ok - so does anyone else get anxious about responsible financial planning - or is it just me?
(ok - I posted this, then saw one of my IRL friends posted the same thing!!! Check out Rae)
I would love some ideas on what other single income families do. We chose for me to stay home (and that has made me so much happier, less stressed, etc) but in doing so, sacrificed the income I made that helped to pay off house and medical debt. We don't have a lot of the latter, but enough I stress over it. The house is more routine for most people so that isn't the part I obsess over.
I obsess over saving $ better, tithing or donating, buying a van when Hubby's car has until Dec to be paid off, having an emergency fund, daily budgets, and planning way better for retirement than we already are doing. Hubby is way relaxed about things, but I'm the anxious one, and I want to be educated on these things. What if anything happened to him...I need to know - so I make it my business to be empowered.
So, I would love to know what others do, example budgets that would refresh my 2009 model? I could have fresh ideas, especially with this recovering (??) economy. I wonder what else I can empower my family to do. One day I will teach again, but if we homeschool - well, I want good plans in place until I do go back to teaching as it could be a few years.
Tips? Thoughts? Or is this just too taboo to talk out loud about?
(ok - I posted this, then saw one of my IRL friends posted the same thing!!! Check out Rae)
I would love some ideas on what other single income families do. We chose for me to stay home (and that has made me so much happier, less stressed, etc) but in doing so, sacrificed the income I made that helped to pay off house and medical debt. We don't have a lot of the latter, but enough I stress over it. The house is more routine for most people so that isn't the part I obsess over.
I obsess over saving $ better, tithing or donating, buying a van when Hubby's car has until Dec to be paid off, having an emergency fund, daily budgets, and planning way better for retirement than we already are doing. Hubby is way relaxed about things, but I'm the anxious one, and I want to be educated on these things. What if anything happened to him...I need to know - so I make it my business to be empowered.
So, I would love to know what others do, example budgets that would refresh my 2009 model? I could have fresh ideas, especially with this recovering (??) economy. I wonder what else I can empower my family to do. One day I will teach again, but if we homeschool - well, I want good plans in place until I do go back to teaching as it could be a few years.
Tips? Thoughts? Or is this just too taboo to talk out loud about?
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Bouncy Fun and New Hair 'Do!
Just pics from our Saturday. Taking a break from snow for some indoor fun:
Val bouncing below (you can see her hair bouncing)
Not as angled as I wanted in the back - but I did tell her to start slowly, and I'd go back for more cuts :)
Ok - after this day...time for bed!!! :)
I had the BEST seat in the house for a preggo lady :)
Relaxing on air!
Val bouncing below (you can see her hair bouncing)
Oh - and a new haircut for a new birthday year (yes, I celebrated earlier this week) :) I'm SLOWLY working toward an angled "bob" (longer in front, shorter in back). I'll go back a few times till I feel like the change is done. Gotta love cheap hair cutteries! (oh - I did the styling...don't blame the lady. I came home and dried it, etc!)
Ok - after this day...time for bed!!! :)
Friday, January 8, 2010
Snow Day continued...
Well, our day of fun continued. (Oh, I added a pic in my last entry - a picture of the cool shaped snowflakes....check it out!!!)
All Advent, and even into early Christmas, I really wanted to make gingerbread cookies with Lovely. It just seemed life got in the way and Christmas was coming to an end. So today's 'Snow Day' really slowed life down and this evening I took advantage and we got to it! We played Christmas music, enjoyed our Christmas lights and hats, and we enjoyed time as girls. Val even stayed close watching from her high chair, ready to be our taste tester! It was a lot of fun.
But...I'm ready for bed! :) We saved some for daddy who was off at a guy's night out (only guys would pick a frosty cold night to drive in.....). Lovely did a great job rolling and icing and cookie cutting. I enjoyed making memories! I think Lovely is also catching the shutterbug disease. You'll see her taking pics with her camera - plus one I found on my camera.
Enjoy....YUM!
I apologize for the missing head of the gingerbread man in
the below picture. This manic pregnant woman
came walking by and just savagely attacked him.
I have NO IDEA who she was....hmmmmm.
Next to time with my girls, the below was one of my favorite places to be
all evening. When they went to bed, I sat HERE:
Hmmm...who took this pic on MY camera? LOL
A FABULOUS evening - Val above clapped her appreciation. Whew!! What a day! Hubby is home now, so I think I can finally sleep. I never can just go to bed without him in the house somewhere...weird! But tonight was precious time with my girls!
Oh - soon I can share Christmas morning pics! My sister sent me copies!! Thanks Sister (my camera was dying slowly on Christmas)! I still need to get Christmas Eve off the old card somehow....I'll hope!
Goodnight!
All Advent, and even into early Christmas, I really wanted to make gingerbread cookies with Lovely. It just seemed life got in the way and Christmas was coming to an end. So today's 'Snow Day' really slowed life down and this evening I took advantage and we got to it! We played Christmas music, enjoyed our Christmas lights and hats, and we enjoyed time as girls. Val even stayed close watching from her high chair, ready to be our taste tester! It was a lot of fun.
But...I'm ready for bed! :) We saved some for daddy who was off at a guy's night out (only guys would pick a frosty cold night to drive in.....). Lovely did a great job rolling and icing and cookie cutting. I enjoyed making memories! I think Lovely is also catching the shutterbug disease. You'll see her taking pics with her camera - plus one I found on my camera.
Enjoy....YUM!
The below pic (forgive the toy strewn room - Snow Day lol) is playtime
as the cookies baked. That fire felt sooooooo good!
Lovely was doing some sort of dance to the Christmas music...
as the cookies baked. That fire felt sooooooo good!
Lovely was doing some sort of dance to the Christmas music...
I apologize for the missing head of the gingerbread man in
the below picture. This manic pregnant woman
came walking by and just savagely attacked him.
I have NO IDEA who she was....hmmmmm.
Next to time with my girls, the below was one of my favorite places to be
all evening. When they went to bed, I sat HERE:
Hmmm...who took this pic on MY camera? LOL
A FABULOUS evening - Val above clapped her appreciation. Whew!! What a day! Hubby is home now, so I think I can finally sleep. I never can just go to bed without him in the house somewhere...weird! But tonight was precious time with my girls!
Oh - soon I can share Christmas morning pics! My sister sent me copies!! Thanks Sister (my camera was dying slowly on Christmas)! I still need to get Christmas Eve off the old card somehow....I'll hope!
Goodnight!
SNOW DAY!!! ** EDITED **
Well, we have SNOW people! Fabulous!
It started yesterday as we walked home from school. How magical! It was soft flakes, which I failed to notice, but my neighbor buddy did - actually were shaped with 6 points! They looked like the Star of David. VERY cool! Lovely just laughed the whole way home, Val kept saying "Wooow!" and then it stopped a while. Bummer!
Edited to add this pic from a different friend who noticed the cool shaped flakes too. Look closely:
So awesome!!!!
Apparently though when it got dark (and I was too tired to notice) it began again and went late into the night. The result? Snow and ice that shut down this southern city and temps in the 15s! We've had a snow day before for schools, but hubby has always had to work (with a delayed start so roads could be better). Today though - office was CLOSED! It's been a GREAT family day thus far!
It's only a light dusting...one that is already melting away (even though we are now in the 20s), but it has made it a VERY special morning for our family, friends, and neighbors. Perfect for a fire, hot cocoa, NAPS, and quiet.
Here are some pics from our day so far:
Look at her nose pressed on the glass :)
HAHA! Hang on Val!!! :)
Hey - we kinda had a "White Christmas" It's still Christmas, friends!
It's been a fantastic day! I'm feeling very grateful!! Grateful for my family, this day off, appreciating them, getting extra rest when we haven't been 100% well, or sleeping at night, grateful our crosses in life are small...and wondering (and being SO grateful still) why bigger ones have not hit us yet (which is really interesting because two other bloggers have been thinking the same thing!! What's up with that??!! Check out Kate and Rachel). I might have to explore that with them - but I always seem to have it at the back of my mind. A few years ago we were deep in BIG crosses, so I very much do NOT take for granted this time - but my heart and mind are with others who lately have been going through a lot more (Some with WAY more faith and grace than I could!) - and I do wonder why for them, and yes....when for me. Why is that?
BUT - I am grateful. Grateful that this "feeling" makes me not take a moment for granted. Grateful I lean on faith and friends. Grateful that I feel blessings and feel so RICH even if I'm really not. But....again, I need to think about this more. Is it my hormones? My anxiety? Is it because when others you know are having a hard time you think harder? I know we're supposed to let Go, let God - and today...I will. I'm going to end this and enjoy a really LOVELY day. Enjoy this cozy, 'fireplace and cocoa' time with my family while I do have it - all of us together, safe, happy, and healthy.
Snowed in and grateful. AWESOME Combo.
Let it Snow!!
It started yesterday as we walked home from school. How magical! It was soft flakes, which I failed to notice, but my neighbor buddy did - actually were shaped with 6 points! They looked like the Star of David. VERY cool! Lovely just laughed the whole way home, Val kept saying "Wooow!" and then it stopped a while. Bummer!
Edited to add this pic from a different friend who noticed the cool shaped flakes too. Look closely:
So awesome!!!!Apparently though when it got dark (and I was too tired to notice) it began again and went late into the night. The result? Snow and ice that shut down this southern city and temps in the 15s! We've had a snow day before for schools, but hubby has always had to work (with a delayed start so roads could be better). Today though - office was CLOSED! It's been a GREAT family day thus far!
It's only a light dusting...one that is already melting away (even though we are now in the 20s), but it has made it a VERY special morning for our family, friends, and neighbors. Perfect for a fire, hot cocoa, NAPS, and quiet.
Here are some pics from our day so far:
The girls seeing the snow upon waking up!!!
The girls giving each other kisses through the door. Val kept going "MuuuuuWAH!"
Look at her nose pressed on the glass :)
HAHA! Hang on Val!!! :)
Hey - we kinda had a "White Christmas" It's still Christmas, friends!
It's been a fantastic day! I'm feeling very grateful!! Grateful for my family, this day off, appreciating them, getting extra rest when we haven't been 100% well, or sleeping at night, grateful our crosses in life are small...and wondering (and being SO grateful still) why bigger ones have not hit us yet (which is really interesting because two other bloggers have been thinking the same thing!! What's up with that??!! Check out Kate and Rachel). I might have to explore that with them - but I always seem to have it at the back of my mind. A few years ago we were deep in BIG crosses, so I very much do NOT take for granted this time - but my heart and mind are with others who lately have been going through a lot more (Some with WAY more faith and grace than I could!) - and I do wonder why for them, and yes....when for me. Why is that?
BUT - I am grateful. Grateful that this "feeling" makes me not take a moment for granted. Grateful I lean on faith and friends. Grateful that I feel blessings and feel so RICH even if I'm really not. But....again, I need to think about this more. Is it my hormones? My anxiety? Is it because when others you know are having a hard time you think harder? I know we're supposed to let Go, let God - and today...I will. I'm going to end this and enjoy a really LOVELY day. Enjoy this cozy, 'fireplace and cocoa' time with my family while I do have it - all of us together, safe, happy, and healthy.
Snowed in and grateful. AWESOME Combo.
Let it Snow!!
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