Daybook Monday: "Great Weather" Edition

Outside my window... sunny, warm, birds singing - FABULOUS!

I am thinking…what a great day this is becoming. And, our plan is to make it even better!

I am thankful for…our friends coming back in town safe, my goddaughter being ok, and overall health for my family.

From the kitchen…no cooking tonight! We're going on a picnic for dinner!

I am wearing…socks, PJ pants, t-shirt.

I am going...to join my family this evening for some fun in this glorious weather!!! I need to charge my camera battery...

I am reading...daily Lenten Meditations, favorite blogs, Lisa Hendey's new book, and listening to my book club book till I can get a paper copy :)

I am hoping…I can keep up with the great weekend momentum we've been having with our 40 bags in 40 days. We got so much done this weekend! I found things I've been needing, things that are not mine and need to be returned lol, and lots to donate, sell, and TRASH!

I am hearing...the birds chirping through the open window and my wind chimes making tranquil sounds.

I am creating…a cleaner house, more positive energy for a good week, and a meal plan for the week.

I am praying…to stay focused on Lent, continued health for me and my family, and the prayer intentions of dear friends and family.

Around the house…getting a ton done! Need to tackle the guest room since things have gotten placed in there in our decluttering, but I can see progress - even under MY BED!

One of my favorite things…waking up to birds chirping again...it's been a LONG winter.

I am pondering...a great Lenten quote thanks to Elizabeth Foss - from St. John of the Cross:

"Wisdom enters through love, silence, and mortification. It is great wisdom to know how to be silent and to look at neither the remarks, nor the deeds, nor the lives of others."

A few plans for the rest of the week…focus on our family today - Hubby really is looking forward (and made the plans for this afternoon) to our plans today after he gets home from work, tomorrow I have our woman's prayer group, and the rest of the week will fall as it may. I hope to carve out some good personal time too. I like that we're not over scheduled this week!


A “picture thought” I’m sharing…

This was taken 30 weeks 3 days (maybe 4 days). I LOVE being pregnant!!!!! Love it!!!!

Daybook TUESDAY - "Ho Hum" Edition

Outside my window... cool and cloudy

I am thinking…nap this morning, or take Val to the library?

I am thankful for…feeling better emotionally than I did this weekend.

From the kitchen…we just had breakfast - cereal and sausage balls.

I am wearing…socks, PJ pants, t-shirt.

I am going...to have a very busy Wed, Thurs, and Friday during school hours, plus a community school meeting Thurs night (more info below - it is why I am "ho hum").

I am reading...daily Lenten Meditations, food blogs, waiting for my copy to arrive of Same Kind of Different As Me for book club.

I am hoping…I can get back on track with watching my Lenten Sacrifices. I've gotten behind on my bags for 40 Days, 40 Bags mostly. I'm also hoping our favorite neighborhood school both stays OPEN and does not get overcrowded with re-zoning.

I am hearing...the radio playing.

I am creating…survival plans for getting through this week resting wise. It'll be a fun 3 days, but I'm hitting that place where I need naps at almost 29 weeks along, so I need SLEEP!

I am praying…for a focused Lent, continued health for me and my family again, and for the school issues plaguing where I live. It's really frustrating currently (County wants to shut down a bunch of schools near us, or re-zone them - even with my home schooling plan, I want to support my community and keep our local school small and intimate).

Around the house…trying to keep it clean! Organized! De-stressed. HAHAHA!

One of my favorite things…my girls giggling together!!!

I am pondering...my plans for TODAY still lol. I'm not good at making decisions!

A few plans for the rest of the week…either a morning nap or morning out with Val in a bit, delivering a meal to a family this evening with a new baby and babysitting our Goddaughter E some this evening. Tomorrow is shopping with the grandparents and piano lesson and working out, Thurs is another shopping day with a friend and her daughter we don't see often and lunch, then our church's Montessori class and the school community meeting. Friday I'm hosting a playdate and a possible sleepover for Lovely and our Goddaughter on Sat morning. GOOD times! WHEW!


A “picture thought” I’m sharing…



Happy Tuesday - chase the ho hums away with me!

Monday Daybook - "Fresh New Week" Edition

Not sure where my "lady at the desk" Daybook icon is....but on we go with my "day capture".....

Outside my window... wonderful sunshine, cool winds. A lovely day!

I am thinking…how nice Hubby is home today, though the reason he had to take off is a bit silly (private story..LOL).

I am thankful for…Val's GREAT well baby checkup today. Her new ped happens to be a growth specialist (how appropriate) and made me feel really good about my instincts on Val's progress, even though she's small for her age, and she really is fine! As always, I got new tips to help add calories, but he felt nothing more needs to be done at this time, and she'll walk when ready. Can I have that in writing for my loved ones? LOL

From the kitchen…I plan on making some sausage and pasta with EVOO, veggies, and we'll serve that with homemade Irish Soda Bread the girls and I will make after our neighborhood work out. It's the feast day of St. Brigid, so the bread is in honor of her and Ireland and a fun way to talk about feast day with the girls!

I am wearing…socks, PJ pants, t-shirt

I am going...to work out on the Wii Active soon with S and our kids.

I am reading...or WILL be reading Same Kinda Different As Me for book club when I get my copy from the library. I also need to read my small group readings for tomorrow!

I am hoping…I sleep better tonight. I enter the 3rd trimester this week and I'm starting to feel it at night.

I am hearing...Hubby working on something upstairs.

I am creating…another meal plan (maybe I'll have more time this evening) for the week and a cleaning plan to get ready for the weekend events and family in town next week!

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. It's a work in constant progress.

One of my favorite things…naps!!!! LOVE naps!

I am pondering...what other activities to do with Lovely to spend some quality time with her this week - I can tell we need it. Luckily there is another Feast on the 3rd (St. Blaise) and a yummy food project we can do again to tie in learning, faith, and FUN! I need to get some crafts too, and she loves painting with water.....hmmmmm......

A few plans for the rest of the week…Familia small group tomorrow, exercising MWF, piano lesson Wed, and practicing for that daily, cleaning, more cleaning, and Lovely may be with my parents most of this weekend to both take her to a ballet performance, spend time with her, and let us rest and clean LOL. I hope to take lots of naps too LOL!

A “picture thought” I’m sharing...

One of my FAVORITE pics of Valiant. She's almost 3 months here.....

Much love!!!

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 few plans for the rest of the week…coffee this morning, workout at 3pm, a restful family evening, house chores Tues, coffee or dinner out with a dear friend, our small prayer group meeting, more house chores, naps, OB appt (YAY!! BABY!), turning 23 weeks this week, Supper Club this weekend....a good week, but filled with rest too! It's nice not to be so busy!!!


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!

Daybook Monday: Late Night Edition

Outside my window... dark and silent.

I am thinking…of how much I got done today, savored, and still need to do...

I am thankful for…for feeling so healthy again!!

From the kitchen… brown rice and "black of beans" (inside joke) for dinner!

I am wearing…socks, workout pants, t-shirt.

I am going...to bed soon.

I am reading...great blogs!!!

I am hoping…that I can get all I need to get done crafting and shopping wise while ENJOYING this time of preparation, penance, and waiting.

I am hearing...Joy Williams' Here With Us. So beautiful!!! I love this time of year!

I am creating…Christmas presents and crafts.

I am praying… for the intentions of MANY friends. I hope they know they have my love.

Around the house…trying to keep it clean! Organized! De-stressed. Not really working...lol!

One of my favorite things…just listening to seasonal music around the house...no TV, no news....just some peace that comes if you look for it this time of year. I need it - I'm fighting being anxious about Christmas preparation.

I am pondering... why am I still up? Oh yeah...I worked out late...3 mile walking DVD with upper body workout :) I needed it though hehe!

A few plans for the rest of the week…Mom's Night "In" at a friend's house with great friends, an Advent Reflection and Penance service, a playdate with our friends from our trip this summer on Wed, and Supper Club this Friday night. Oh yeah...and crafting, and doing Advent-y things with Lovely and Valiant to capture this season better!


A “picture thought” I’m sharing…

Lovely processing in for her school's Christmas Concert. The kids all did so well - and of course she is soooooo lovely :) hehe!!

Ok! Goodnight!

Day Book - "Feeling Well Edition"

Outside my window... crisp and COLD evening.

I am thinking… what a busy, but great day it has been.

I am thankful for…your prayers and how much better I feel!! Also, for a great ENT appt!

From the kitchen… I just pigged out on way too much! Honeybaked Ham sandwhich, pineapple, nutella, and honey wheat.

I am wearing…bare feet, PJ pants, and T-shirt

I am going...to bed soon - after a childhood Christmas special goes off the TV :)

I am reading...magazines for fun, and lots of great stuff for a family based Advent online.

I am hoping…that I can get all I need to get done crafting and shopping wise gets done while ENJOYING this time of preparation, penance, and waiting. We also enjoyed Sunday's St. Nicholas Day :) Pics to come!

I am hearing...the TV special - "Santa Clause is Coming to Town." It's just me watching it.

I am creating…Christmas presents and crafts, and a dinner menu here this week.

I am praying… for the intentions of MANY friends. I hope they know they have my love.

Around the house…full of Advent and the start of Christmas spirit decorating. It feels homey and warm!

One of my favorite things… tonight was so fabulous. Family dinner together, then Mommy and Lovely time with Advent Adventures and Jesse Tree ornament crafting, Advent reading with the two wreath candles, singing O Come O Come Emmanuel in the candlelight with her, seeing Lovely so into it all, then bedtime rocking with little Val who was a MAJOR mommy cuddle bug, time with Hubby, and now unwinding for the night. My heart overflows!! Wait...that was more than one. Well, I was feeling the blues tonight and a bit overwhelmed, so these events boosted my spirits.

I am pondering... You don't want to know. Too many things, good, bad, hard, easy, thankful, grateful, and nervous and scared. Just an emotional day.

A few plans for the rest of the week…going to morning Mass tomorrow with my Prayer group ladies for the Immaculate Conception, then tea and coffee out afterward at a tea shop with those same ladies for some fellowship; lots of crafting, ; an escape with a dear friend; Lovely's Christmas Concert; a possible play date; and time with our little family this weekend and the neighborhood. Oh yeah...Christmas card creating, photo album making, calendar making, shopping...whew LOL!


A “picture thought” I’m sharing…


Be glad I hid my arms from you lol - but here is my first belly pic at 17 weeks. I need to get better at taking pics before it's all over :) I wonder who is in that belly...hehehehehe!!!!

Day Book - Monday Edition

Outside my window... cool, cloudy morning with sprinkles of rain.

I am thinking… of how nice a nap will be in a few minutes.

I am thankful for…amazing friends.

From the kitchen… I just pigged out on way too much! Lunch will be Thanksgiving leftovers...yum!! Then, I really need to have a modest dinner...

I am wearing…bare feet, PJ pants, and T-shirt

I am going...BACK to the doctor this afternoon to see what else I can do for my sinuses. I think I need an ENT.

I am reading...magazines for fun, and lots of great stuff for a family based Advent online.

I am hoping…that the Advent concert rehearsal tomorrow night, and the concert Friday night go well for Hubby and I (we lend our flute and violin) but especially for the main artists who are putting everything into this for the spirit of others!

I am hearing...THIS in our bedroom (playing on computer).

I am creating…ideas for Advent, Christmas presents, and a dinner menu here this week lol!

I am praying… for all of our friends and family with sick ones in the house! What a bug season this Fall is. I hear every 5 years there is a cycle of stubborn colds and viruses and this is year 5!

Around the house…don't get me started! Ugh! I'm so behind, and my parents are sleeping over tomorrow night...ACK!!

One of my favorite things… Lovely's excitement over this season AND little Val's constant snuggles, hugs, smiles, silly teethy smiles, and her singing of Twinkle Twinkle. I LOVE this age!!! It goes by so fast for both girls!

I am pondering...This quote and how it applies to my life. I obviously fail at it every day - and I'm trying to rationalize that the people I speak to in confidence can help me with honest direction. Otherwise...in looking at the rule - I'm a BIG failure...

"never speak badly of your brother, not even when you have plenty of reasons for doing so. Go first to the tabernacle, and then go to the priest, your father, and also tell him what is bothering you. And to no one else." - St. Josemaria Escriva

A few plans for the rest of the week…rehearsals, practicing, trying to rest and heal with my sinus infection, our Woman's Prayer group meeting, a MOPS meeting, a Santa brunch Saturday with family and friends, and our mommy group Christmas Party at our house Saturday evening...WHEW!

A “picture thought” I’m sharing…

This picture is from a few weeks ago when we hosted our church supper group on Hubby's birthday. It was the first time I put together a more fancy table and I was pretty excited. It's just a nice memory of feeling like a true "adult" when I feel like a kid most of the time LOL!

Much Love!!

Day Book - Evening Edition

Outside my window... a cool evening - the type I wish I had the energy to enjoy outside - but its too dark now lol.

I am thinking… how ready I am to curl in bed with a book!

I am thankful for…my hubby being so generous tonight with his time!

From the kitchen… we ate Greek tonight!

I am wearing… flip flops, yoga pants, Tinkerbell T-shirt

I am going...to relax in a bit!

I am reading...Everyone is Beautiful by Katherine Center. VERY good! Moms should read it (it's a great escape novel).

I am hoping…this week is a good week! Both to be savored, and go by fast, if that makes sense!

I am hearing...the sound of our bedroom fan going.

I am creating…and cultivating things around here.

I am praying… for a certain someone and that Goddaughter E's mouth surgery goes fast and well on Friday!!

Around the house…don't get me started! Ugh!

One of my favorite things…the snuggles from Baby Val I've been getting lately, and the sweet comments from Lovely's school. Her PE teacher stopped me this morning saying she is one of the highlights of his day - that she is so sure of herself, and says the funniest things, but in a good, happy way, and is so kind to everyone in class everyday. He couldn't really put it into words how to describe her - but said she was one of his favorite students to see in his day. That really made my morning!!!

A few plans for the rest of the week…watching our little E, MNO at a local Thai restaurant, hosting a playdate Friday - attempting to clean the house!!

A “picture thought” I’m sharing…

Day Book - Monday Edition

Outside my window... a cool early evening with both sun and threatening dark rain clouds.

I am thinking… how hungry I am!

I am thankful for…the fact it has been a great day!

From the kitchen… I'm waiting for the cook top to warm up to cook instant brown rice, warm already cooked pork & cream of mushroom, and steam some frozen broccoli. Yes, it is an "instant" dinner....but at least it isn't fast food, right?

I am wearing… running shoes, running shorts, and a red shirt.

I am going...to a craft night tonight - and I have plenty of projects to work on!

I am reading...craft magazines for ideas for Lovely's tea birthday for her class.

I am hoping…I get lots done tonight so I'm not stressed this weekend!

I am hearing...the sound of the TV in the den and steamy water on the stove.

I am creating… a page layout for a 60th b-day this weekend AND the whole said tea party.

I am praying… for a certain someone.

Around the house… I'm SO behind!!!

One of my favorite things…my couch....I need to avoid it and do some work around here (but I love snuggling with Valiant though!)

A few plans for the rest of the week…watching our little E, possibly attending a MOPS meeting, hopefully see friends in the evening this week, hosting a playdate Friday - attempting to clean the house!!

A “picture thought” I’m sharing…

Lovely as a baby :) Where has the time gone???

Day Book - Monday Edition

Outside my window… a cool morning. What a CHANGE from the past summer days! I feel a hint of fall and I'm SO READY for it!

I am thinking… about how complicated I make life when it doesn't have to be.

I am thankful for… the fact that both babes are sleeping today and Lovely is back at school, well.

From the kitchen… I'll be prepping the crock pot later to make Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup. YUM!!

I am wearing… running shoes, running shorts, and a blue shirt.

I am going...nowhere today (aside from school to get Lovely).

I am reading…magazines and blogs...both when I have time. It's been one of those weeks/weekends.

I am hoping… that I don't get sick!!! I'm tired of the germs and viruses!

I am hearing...the sound of the fan in our bedroom.

I am creating… as best I can (not a lot of time lately) some picture uploading and projects.

I am praying… Baby Valiant gets well soon!!

Around the house… laundry, cooking, and man....cleaning...ugh!

One of my favorite things…my Wii Active. I just finished my 1st 30 day challenge (boot camp!). I didn't miss a day (I did have scheduled rest days)!

A few plans for the rest of the week…not much. I'm going to let the girls rest up from being sick. We'll have a make up piano lesson sometime this week instead of today for that purpose.

A “picture thought” I’m sharing…

Points to those who can guess what this is of (if you do know...no naming locations!) hehe!

Happy Monday!

Day Book - Monday Edition

Outside my window…a surprisingly sunny day for a forcasted rainy one.

I am thinking...do I like iced coffee? Or not? Hmmmm.

I am thankful for...my husband. He was really supportive this weekend.

From the kitchen…Teriyaki Steak is cooking away in the crock pot. Smells great!! All we'll add is rice and veggies and dinner is done!!!

I am wearing... brown cropped pants and old pink shirt.

I am creating…a dinner routine for this week and all the rest as I figure out our afternoons post school.

I am going…to hopefully take a nap in a bit, then play with Valiant post nap before picking Lovely up, then piano lesson, then meeting up with former students for a visit!! Can't wait!

I am reading…nothing currently (BOO!). Unless I count blogs.

I am hoping…with a nap, and some meditation later I can lift the mysterious weight on my spirit. Perplexing.

I am hearing...the sounds of this cool link in the background. It is meant for babies, but I have it on upstairs most days to create a relaxing and calm state in my bedroom.

Around the house…the house is actually semi-orderly. I need to start some more laundry though, and do some Flylady.

One of my favorite things…Valiant snuggling against me this morning. I. LOVE. IT!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Tomorrow brings back E's return. Tomorrow night is Mom's Night Out, and we'll be seeing The Time Traveler's Wife at a theater that serves dinner while you watch. Our book club read this book and loved it (well, I speak for myself). It will be great seeing it with other readers so we can see how it compares with the book. We'll stick close to home the rest of the week, and then maybe a baby playgroup Friday before naps.

Here is 'picture thought' I am sharing…

She brightens my days while her sister is away.

Happy Monday!

Day Book - Monday Edition

Outside my window…a dark summer night (it is Monday, just EARLY Monday).

I am thinking...what a great weekend it has been for getting things done in terms of clothing my girls and I.

I am thankful for...one of our best friends getting a job he will LOVE!!! AMEN! He so deserved it. His family too. Also, I'm thankful for good friends!!!! Friends who are far too good and patient with me. God IS Good!!!

From the kitchen…tonight was breakfast for dinner. I do have a plan for different nights this week...many are crock pot related.

I am wearing... PJ's

I am creating…a plan for the busy week ahead. I just don't have one yet ;)

I am going…to bed as soon as I hit "publish"

I am reading… a new vampire series. I love Twilight and since I read all those books, I need to fill the void :)

I am hoping…I can get everything done and activities set before Wednesday starts my new and exciting gig - loving on my goddaughter 4 days a week!! I can't believe it is here, and that Kindergarten starts a week from today....GASP!

I am hearing...the sounds of my hubby snoring....

Around the house…our closet and chest of drawers are organized! As for the house...nope.

One of my favorite things…did I mention reading....so nice!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Busy busy!! Seeing my sister tomorrow (today), having my niece over Tuesday, then my sweet E coming to see me Wed-Friday. I may take Valiant and E with me to visit my old high school where I went and taught. I love visiting my coworker pals on pre-planning, and I can pass E to her dad who teachers there and he can show her off while I show off my babies LOL! Friday, I may host one last play date for Lovely and her friends before she's school bound! (Weeping...)

Here is 'picture thought' I am sharing…

This is my cousin (who at this time was channeling Jesus' signature look as he was about to play Jesus in "Jesus Christ Superstar") who has a song he co-wrote premiering on CMT's "Can you Duet" show finale this Saturday, 7pm. I'm so thrilled! This will be his second national song spotlight! I'm super proud!

Night!

Day Book - Monday Edition

Outside my window…a dark summer night.

I am thinking...or rather debating doing the Wii Active Book Camp day one after I'm done (sometimes I work out at night), or get in bed with a good book I want to finish....hmmmm.

I am thankful for...the internet, and all information and planning help it gives me to do a week long home VBS for Rachael (go Summer Adventures, Crafts, and Cooking!) and friends who want to join along, with other crafts and cooking and such!

From the kitchen…Tonight was leftovers, and cookies from our snack venture today. Hmmmm, I should work out...lol!

I am wearing... comfy cargo pants and T-shirt

I am creating…and researching lots of fun things to do this week to bond with Lovely before Kindergarten!

I am going…to either work out or read...hmmmm. LOL!!! What will win?

I am reading… a new vampire series. I love Twilight and since I read all those books, I need to fill the void :)

I am hoping…that becoming my goddaughter's babysitter for 4 days a week (eventually 3 days) is a good idea. We're all on the same page now, and looking forward to it, but watching someone else's child, especially for pay, can complicate things and is such a responsibility. But, I'm excited to try!!

I am hearing...the sounds of my hubby crushing hard candy for me for a baking project later this week. Love my man!!!

Around the house…I'm enjoying a house mostly caught up with cleaning wise. I certainly have more areas to deep clean, but I'm content right now keeping up with things as I focus on my girls this week!

One of my favorite things…naps!!! I've been trying to catch up on naps lately....

A few plans for the rest of the week: Home VBS every day, play dates with friends, babysitting my goddaughter Thurs morning for a short while, and lots of reading!

Here is 'picture thought' I am sharing…

The Godsisters....Lovely, Valiant, and 3 month old E. in our yard. They are wearing matching dresses from my sister...hehe! I'm a blessed woman!!!

Have a rosey rest of the week!

"Not Me!" and Day Book Monday Catch Up

"Are you feeling ashamed for letting your child go to bed without brushing his teeth...again? Did you Twitter on your cell phone during a meeting without anyone knowing? Feel bad for screaming at the cat or eating Pop Tarts and coffee for breakfast? Are you embarrassed that you are far from perfect? We'll don't be. Not Me! Monday was born out of my desire to admit some of my imperfections and reveal a few moments I'd rather forget. You may find it therapeutic to join in and do the same thing!"

When I read MckMama's blog (great photography, humor, inspiration, and mom of 4 kids under 4) and her list of "not me's" (I love sarcasm and working on being less worrisome and serious) I thought I'd try to jump in sometime with my own list. We'll see how it goes with my tongue in cheek.

I certainly did NOT eat half a bag of potato chips today at lunch right after someone said "Wow, you are SO disciplined now since you lost some weight." I did not. I know for a fact they were not tasty, and so of course I did not eat them, especially on top of a weekend of Italian food. "NOT ME!"

I certainly did not probably drink 6 glasses of wine as the conversation flowed at our Supper Club Italian night that went past 12 midnight. "NOT ME!" lol

I certainly never leave baby Valiant in the same baby clothes she does not dirty, wet, drool on or sweat in for 3 days at a time or more to keep life easy. "NOT ME!"

I certainly did not clean my house from top to bottom simply because we were having visitors this weekend. I totally clean my house like this all the time, because my family is worth it. Extra cleaning for people who have never been in my house is something I don't do, ever - "NOT ME!"

I did not talk too much at prayer group and Familia this morning. I never talk too much. "Not Me!"

I most certainly am NOT licking a Tootsie Roll Pop as I type this, especially after writing about NOT eating chips. "Not Me."

LOL!!!! Did anyone have fun reading that? "Not Me!"
Now, onto my daybook:


Outside my window…what started off as cloudy is now glorious! We will definitely be outside today! After I post this, I'm going for a run as Hubby is home working today!

I am thinking...what a busy week I have ahead. I'm already tired (in a good way) just thinking about it - but it will be a a GREAT week with amazing people.

I am thankful for...being able to laugh in spite of myself. My husband able to be with us more today, getting out tonight for a 31st B-day celebration, MNO tomorrow night with friends, and so much more! Oh wait...I'm thankful for Hubby being ok with be going out 2 nights in a row....Yippee!

From the kitchen…I'm eating out tonight - I need to see what I can leave for the family. Wow - 2 nights in a row of me being out...I need to plan something.

I am wearing... brown cropped pants and a blue button down collared shirt.

I am creating…a photo book of Valiant's first year (wah!!!! She's almost a year old in another month!!)

I am going…to take Lovely to her piano lesson soon.

I am reading…(lately) my craft magazines and Daily Word for this month.

I am hoping…that I stay rested this week and caught up on the house - it is so tidy right now!

I am hearing…Lovely practicing the piano with her Daddy (I love him being home today!)

Around the house…I have laundry to fold after a workout.

One of my favorite things…is a funny from today. Lovely "graduates" from preK on Friday and when she got into the car today she told me "Today we practiced the 'I Love You' song, and they told us it would make all the mommies cry - but NOT you mommy. You are not allowed to cry. You can be the only mommy not crying which will make the song good. I don't want you crying, just laughing at all the crying mommies and it will be a happy day."

A few plans for the rest of the week: Today, a night out for J's b-day, tomorrow night is out with mommy friends for a needed Mom's Night Out (MNO), a baby gathering on Wed, baptism of our adopted nephew on Saturday, and a family graduation on Sunday. WHEW!!!

Here is 'picture thought' I am sharing…

I'll share these three pics. While obviously on the phone, on the bed, with the baby (see background) Lovely was playing on our computer and learned how to turn on the webcam and the features/graphics of the webcam. She's 5 and has discovered how to do the webcam (um yes, let's make sure she never starts a webcast on the internet...yes, we'll prohibit that) but it seems to provide loads of fun and me time for the phone as I'm not even paying attention to her HAHA! The little kite in the picture is an animation on the webcam and apparently she was trying to catch it in her mouth - and took a ton of pictures trying it. I have about 80 of these pictures of her doing this, with me just talking away on the bed. Parent of the Year!!! HAHAH! I love the laundry on the bed to...I'm working so hard!!!







Much love! Many Laughs!

Recap of Today - Daybook style

First off....THANK you for your prayers, thoughts, comments, and calls. Thank you.

To update....

Outside my window…dark, muggy, but cool. A nice spring evening. It ends this very hectic day well.

I am thinking... how tired I am. I'm using this time to update family, friends, and the blog about today's medical procedures for my parents before bed.

I am thankful for...today going so well. AMEN! My mom's (eye) cataracts surgery went routinely, and my father's catheterized ablation for his heart went well too. They got his heart rhythm back the 1st try, and reported my 86 yo father's heart is healthier than most 50 yo hearts! Go Daddy! Thank you God!!

From the kitchen…I was not home for dinner, but had a nice Mexican meal at my parents 'post procedures' with my sister.

I am wearing... pants and red shirt.

I am creating…gifts for mother's day this weekend! And, little games and fun activities to keep Lovely occupied while resting up from her surgery this Thursday on her adenoids.

I am going…back to my parents' house tomorrow to bring groceries and hang out with my dad tomorrow while my sister takes my mom to get her eye patch off when Lovely gets out of school.

I am reading…lots of medical info for my family to stay informed. Gotta love WebMD!!

I am hoping…and praying Lovely's procedure goes well Thursday. They gave us a time - 11am for surgery prep and surgery. She'll do great I know!! I'm also hoping to rise above some comments made today that wounded me some....but from people who won't change so I need to work on accepting that fact and letting things just roll. More on this in another entry - if I publish it. I wrote it all down and may post it sometime.....we'll see. I just love the people very much whose words made me wince and that makes things even more difficult.

I am hearing…the sound of the evening news in the background.

Around the house…enjoying a clean house! Got lots done on it this past Sun and Monday. It could always be straighter....but, I'll take what I can get!

One of my favorite things…hanging out with my sister today, and being with friends at their house this past weekend. Pics to come...one day lol!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Errands tomorrow and family time, Lovely's surgery on Thursday, recouping with her Fri, Sat, and Sunday. Possibly running a 5K early Saturday, and Mother's Day is this Sunday!!!

Here is 'picture thought' I am sharing…

Just a pic of hubby and I all gussied up in 2004. Who doesn't like a little glamor? I promise I never look like this HAHA!!

Whew! I'm bushed. Thank the Lord for a successful day. God IS Good!!

Day Book - Monday Edition *UPDATED*

Outside my window…the day is JUST getting started. The weather calls for a nice day - we'll see how it turns out!

I am thinking... that it was a wonderful weekend! Full of time for just our family, being lazy, being there for each other, and for others too!

I am thankful for...taking Lovely to the ENT today to get an idea for why she always snores, has sinus issues, etc. It's just gone on too long, and we need to get some ideas on dealing with this more specifically than just the pediatrician's general knowledge. I was this age too when I saw my first ENT for my issues (like mother like daughter) and we've had this scheduled for a month.

From the kitchen…I'm tempted to make breakfast for dinner, but we'll see where this evening finds us. I may be home to cook, or I may be out and it will be Hubby's job!

I am wearing... pj's!

I am creating…more organization in our house. We raised our bed to make more storage room, and I've been throwing a lot away. I need to talk to S about doing the neighborhood garage sale to firm up plans. I can't wait!

I am going…in a few hours to the ENT (see above).

I am reading…(lately) my craft magazines and Guidepost magazine for this month.

I am hoping…that this is a good week. Last week I was tired, emotional, insecure a lot, and second guessing ALL my actions and questioning others. Definitely a weak week for me. I pray this week is better and stronger and focused for me.

I am hearing…the sound of a podcast I'm listening to by Lisa Hendey.

Around the house…more "FLYing" to do today and this week. There is always a zone to do lol.

One of my favorite things…Baby Val and Baby E taking a stroller walk together this weekend. I hope it leads to years of friendship :)

A few plans for the rest of the week: a BIG highlight? A local airshow!! Can't wait to check that out! We also will see our playgroup friends for lunch on Wed, and more mundane things like the dentist for me and Lovely (groan) tomorrow. Also, I need to focus on the positive this week, and encourage my spirit for I feel the upliftment and grace that's always there for me to take.

Here is 'picture thought' I am sharing…

A picture of the damaged tree that was cut down this past week before it fell down and hurt us or our home. This picture and tree spoke to me. The crack was rather hidden from our eyes - so we didn't know the full extent of the damage - aside from the lean at the top of the tree. Our friends saw the damage and helped us see that we needed to do something sooner about it, rather than later (thank you!!). That mirrors our lives sometimes. We know we are leaning, or suffering from the weight of stress in our lives, but we don't know the extent of our brokenness and hurt. Sometimes it takes the eyes of someone Higher to see our flaws and take our burden from us, or strike it down in healing. God is there, ready to swoop in and "fell" our suffering. We still have our crosses to bear, but He's ready to help us carry them, or, if WE are able, give our stress and hurt all to him so our suffering is gone while we carry those burdens. God IS Good, and He is in all around us and works through our loved ones actions and words. Thank you to ALL our friends, for ministering to us daily. I'm grateful.

Much love!

**Just to update our ENT appt. Lovely has large blockages due to her gigantic adenoids. Thus, they should be removed. This means surgery (boo!). I have research to do, but I do feel thus far that surgery is a good option vs medications taken daily for this chronic condition. I had it as a child, and this surgery has been improved on and is largely outpatient now. Plus, he's waiting on the tonsils, so this surgery will not be as hard on her and her recovery. Thanks for your prayers. No one could ever be a fan of their baby (even a 5 yo baby lol) getting surgery - I just want her to really sleep again, and not get so infected so often! She deserves some peace too!

Day Book - Monday Edition

A little late in the day, but here goes! I'm waiting for dinner to finish cooking. And, I've had some nice comments lately I have not had a chance to respond to - I appreciate them greatly and I'll do that as soon as I can. It's been one of those (many) weeks! I'm humbled though!

And, my brain is so fried today. My eyes hurt from being tired/strained, so I'm not very creative with the below.


Outside my window…a sunshiny day! It was threatening rain though, so that could still happen.

I am thinking... I have NOT been this tired in a long time. In fact, my body is telling me to SLOW down. I hope I can sneak in some naps, or perhaps earlier bedtimes this week and cut back on my activities to get some more rest or quiet. I can't get sick again!!

I am thankful for...a WONDERFUL and insightful group discussion this morning on a book we are reading to build up the faith in God, ourselves, and our relationships. It was a great talk with all the ladies there, and I grow every time and am grateful for the talk!

From the kitchen…Well, I need to make a meal plan for the week, but tonight I'm making salad, Poppyseed Chicken, steamed rice, steamed broccoli, rolls, and some already baked apple pie.

I am wearing... yoga pants, sandals, and a T-shirt.

I am creating…dinner? LOL Not sure I'm really creative today. If I have time before bed, I may catch up on some e-mails and comments - but we'll see. This is about as creative as I'm getting today with the Day Book blog entry.

I am going…to take some of our dinner when its done to J, baby E, and the rest of her growing family for dinner.

I am reading…last night I read two chapters of Captivating and I hope to read more, or start reading another book for fun this week.

I am hoping…I don't get sick, dinner turns out well, I don't forget to pick some more items for Teacher Appreciation Week to send in tomorrow (and all week), that I hold it together the rest of today, that I drink more water, and get a good night's sleep tonight.

I am hearing… the static sound of the baby monitor in the background.

Around the house…not as clean as I'd like. I feel like I need to "nest". I think it adds to me feeling so tired since I feel so behind. But it was worth seeing friends today, tonight, and getting to our piano lesson too.

One of my favorite things…seeing the baby get all excited with her little friends today at our meeting, and seeing my girls together with Baby E this evening, if we decide they can go in and see her. We'll play it by ear.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Sleep. Napping. Laughing LOL! Tomorrow is school, house work, and a 4:30 weekly meeting and MNO at a crafting place (yeah!), Wednesday is more housework catchup, some rest, and probably tutoring, Thursday is more errands, etc, Friday is more of the same (man this seems boring), maybe a nap, and prepping for a visit on Saturday with out of town friends!

Here is 'picture thought' I am sharing…

This picture CRACKS me up! Baby Valiant LOVES her tongue, and it makes for hysterical pictures! She was blinking cause of the flash, but it looks so smug! HAHA!









Have a great Monday!!! God Bless!

Day Book - Monday Edition

A few blogs I've been lurking around on do these blog prompts called "Day Books". They seem to take root in a blog called the Simple Woman who is on a quest for simplifying life in general. Somewhere this image started appearing with the lists people made, and since I was a HUGE Laura Ingalls Wilder and love the romantic side of the old fashioned days, I decided to use this image too. I thought it was a good way to think about the start of the week, jot something down, and capture what I'm up to at the moment, as well as thinking, feeling, and planning.

So, without further adieu (and written more at NIGHT this time haha):


Outside my window…a drizzly evening. Very crisp from all the rain.

I am thinking... how happy I am that I wrote 2 cards (nephew's b-day, and a aunt's Thank you card) paid a craft magazine bill, and spent about 45 mins writing in the "class pet" journal so Lovely can return the "class pet" (a stuffed cat) and journal back to school tomorrow. It feels good to get all those OFF my TO DO list. Having had that cat a WEEK meant lots to write, and lots of pictures to tape in the journal (showing "Pinky" and Lovely together doing activities all week). My hand hurts from writing. I'm so used to typing LOL!!!

I am thankful for...a really fabulous Spring Break and Easter. I got Easter pics up, but I want to get more Spring Break pics up with updates too.

From the kitchen…We ate chicken, beans and roasted potatoes. I need to make a meal plan for the week! I have no idea what we'll eat this week.

I am wearing... my PJ's - T-shirt and comfy bummy pants.

I am creating… sadly nothing. I want to be sewing, practicing my "baby" skills on something creative. Maybe after I get caught up from our busy week last week. We're starting to declutter (again...) and prep for a probable yard sale in the next month. I want a house that is more relaxing to me and my family. It's not horrible, it's just feels cluttered, which leads to emotional clutter, and wears me down.

I am going… to bed after I post this. :)

I am reading… The Rule of Four for our book club....whenever it meets. I'm REALLY behind reading it, so I'm glad we don't have a date set yet. I say that, and tomorrow people will start e-mailing dates!

I am hoping… that my tutoring session Thurs. goes well. Yes, I know....I said I wouldn't do it after that mom didn't seem so understanding when I was sick 2 weeks ago, but that was before a storm today almost knocked a tree down in our yard, and we need to take it down. The extra money would be nice. She JUST e-mailed me.....so I'll give it a go.

I am hearing… and watching "Medium" on TV.

Around the house… currently enjoying that "freshly cleaned" feeling from prepping the house for our Easter guests on Sunday. Tomorrow I need to fold laundry. And organize, and declutter, and organize, and declutter, and, and......lol

One of my favorite things… the fun discussions at my woman's group this morning. I learn from them and help me appreciate my family a bit more and ways to help us all grow in our faith as a family, together.

A few plans for the rest of the week: catching up on laundry and house chores tomorrow, on Wednesday - lunch play date with our local mommy group and then evening games/visiting night at our house with old high school pals. Thursday - more house stuff and possible tutoring, Friday - I'm hosting a baby "playgroup" at my house in the morning and Saturday we have our Dinner Club at one of the member's home. Busy Busy! **OH, and all plans could be thrown out the window at a moment's notice if my "unborn but due on Friday" goddaughter starts her grand entrance this week! SO excited!!!**

Here is 'picture thought' I am sharing…

This was how I found her doll house this evening. Lovely always arranges her toys in unique groupings - she does not discriminate - all are welcome at her gatherings. LOL! I wish the world was more like her at age 5 and have her vision!

Take a close look - it cracks me up all the things in the picture....even the "Invisible Woman" is there in a pink princess dress lol!





Sweet Dreams!!!