... You know, the kind of day that by 10 am (or earlier) you are telling yourself that bedtime is a VERY long time away. We're in that bored with summer sibling rivalry stage. My oldest (6) feels the need to constantly be entertained and thinks that the TV is the best way to do that. Unfortunately for him, we don't sit in front of the TV all day long. So in his spare time he tries to see how far he has to push his brother to get him to react. It's a great game, really.
My almost 4-year-old has decided that he no longer needs to talk to his brother to ask him to stop and leave him alone. Instead he's found that hitting, kicking, biting, and taking items away from him are much more effective and reactionary. His ears have somehow quit working as well (unless snacks are involved).
We really try to work on first time obedience. If I say it, I mean it. Well, they've worn me down this week. I started giving them a couple of chances on things out of my fatigue at constant correcting. They've run it it.
It went from a tough day to a really bad day when I found myself yelling at one to "Shut his mouth" after constantly pointing out flaws of the other boy's balloon animals in the car (after being asked to stop). Shortly after that time I ended up yelling at them again when they were fighting during their time out for the car fiasco.
I really try not to yell at my kids. I experienced plenty of that growing up (as my own parents worked through their struggles in parenting passed on from their fathers - which they did a tremendous job of breaking the cycle). It broke my heart today to hear my son say that he forgave me, but he wasn't going to yell at his kids like that when he was a dad.
It's these days when my anger gets the best of me that I realize what an awesome God I have. He is the ever patient and loving Father ready to heal and restore. He will definitely correct my faults and failures, but never at a loss of love. What grace.
It's a human day. Sure there are plenty more to come. Glad that my boys and my God show me grace and I'll try a little harder tomorrow to breath before speaking. Grace comes much easier when I stop and think before speaking.
It's suppose to be a rainy day tomorrow. I'd better get crackin on things to do to keep us all sane and entertained for the day!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Starting Already
At the recent wedding, my boys wanted their pictures taken with all of the pretty girls in the pretty dresses. They are 6 and almost 4... Can't imagine what it's gonna be like in another 10-15 years...
The pretty girl in white (Amy) was tops on their list for a picture. They colored her pictures during the reception too.
Carrie was next on their list.
They wanted pictures with Lara and Rachel too, but they were busy with family pictures at the moment... so they had to settle for looking at the ones of them I had taken earlier.
The pretty girl in white (Amy) was tops on their list for a picture. They colored her pictures during the reception too.
Carrie was next on their list.
They wanted pictures with Lara and Rachel too, but they were busy with family pictures at the moment... so they had to settle for looking at the ones of them I had taken earlier.Monday, July 26, 2010
Dear Time Magazine,
While flipping through your magazine in the dentist office, I came across an article in "Milestones" by Robert Baer about Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah. As the Grand Ayatollah in Lebanon, many Americans may not be familiar with his record other than alleged connections to Hezbollah and violence in Beirut.
I appreciate Mr Baer's salute to the former leader, however, I take exception to the his assertion that Americans should "regret his passing" because he didn't follow the direction of Iran. As Ayatollah he preached Jihad against the West. That means he wants us dead.
No Mr Baer, I will not regret his passing based on his level of hatred for me. I will respect him as a fellow human, created in the image of God. I will pray for his family as they suffer loss. I will pray for peace between nations. But do not ask me to regret the passing of one who wanted me dead.
Tolerance has limits. I will love my neighbor, and my neighbor's neighbor, but I don't have to regret when hatred dies.
I appreciate Mr Baer's salute to the former leader, however, I take exception to the his assertion that Americans should "regret his passing" because he didn't follow the direction of Iran. As Ayatollah he preached Jihad against the West. That means he wants us dead.
No Mr Baer, I will not regret his passing based on his level of hatred for me. I will respect him as a fellow human, created in the image of God. I will pray for his family as they suffer loss. I will pray for peace between nations. But do not ask me to regret the passing of one who wanted me dead.
Tolerance has limits. I will love my neighbor, and my neighbor's neighbor, but I don't have to regret when hatred dies.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Road Trip
Took a whirlwind trip to Iowa this weekend for a wedding. It was lots of fun, but I am tired. After the 8 hr trip to get there, the boys and I ate, swam and watched a movie... That meant going to bed late. Then Ryan had some sort of allergic reaction and was up from 2-4 am itching and tossing and turning.
The second night, we got lost on the way back from the wedding/after party and didn't get back until almost 11pm and my 3-year-old kept nearly pushing me out of bed. That was all before the trip home.
We are home, it was a great time. But we are all really tired. That means some cranky boys (and maybe an irritable mom). Here's hoping we all wake up refreshed in the morning.
I really am tired tonight, but I can't get myself to go to bed. It's quiet and I know that I get to sleep in my own bed tonight (without little boys) so that I'll actually sleep tonight. A few more minutes of me time, and maybe I'll reconsider that sleep thing.
The second night, we got lost on the way back from the wedding/after party and didn't get back until almost 11pm and my 3-year-old kept nearly pushing me out of bed. That was all before the trip home.
We are home, it was a great time. But we are all really tired. That means some cranky boys (and maybe an irritable mom). Here's hoping we all wake up refreshed in the morning.
I really am tired tonight, but I can't get myself to go to bed. It's quiet and I know that I get to sleep in my own bed tonight (without little boys) so that I'll actually sleep tonight. A few more minutes of me time, and maybe I'll reconsider that sleep thing.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Ryan's Toaster
Just a plain bit of silliness. We bought Ryan his own toaster so they he can eat gluten-free without being contaminated by our glutinous products. I was afraid that during an early morning I would accidentally use the wrong toaster and mess things up. So this is what I did - toaster art.
This is inspired by one of my favorite childhood books.
Think that in a sleepwalking state I may just notice the name and spots all over. Who said gluten-free can't be fun? Add one more thing that you can do with a Sharpie to your list.
This is inspired by one of my favorite childhood books.
Think that in a sleepwalking state I may just notice the name and spots all over. Who said gluten-free can't be fun? Add one more thing that you can do with a Sharpie to your list.
Friday, July 09, 2010
One of Those Days
Must be one of those lonesome days. Nothing to do and no one to do it with... Gotta try to make more friends.
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Frugal Feast Giveaway
I'm giving away a handmade apron over at Frugal Family Feasts. Head on over and sign up to win a handmade apron. I'm gonna make myself one to try to save my shirts. It seems like all of them have some sort of stain on them. So while I'm at it, why don't I make one for you.
You'll find the giveaway here. You don't have to win for yourself. Give it as a gift and make someone else happy.
You'll find the giveaway here. You don't have to win for yourself. Give it as a gift and make someone else happy.
Friday, July 02, 2010
Isaiah
To be completely honest, I'd have to save that packing up and leaving everything that is familiar has been a test of faith for me. Some days my faith is stronger than others. In my heart and soul I know that God love me, wants what is best for me, and is with me every step of the way. I am not alone (though often it may "feel" that way). It's so easy to dwell in my feelings rather than relying on what I "KNOW" is true. That's the human nature - to doubt.
In my doubt, we have seen God provide for every one of our needs. Those answers and provisions have often come at the very last moment when all else is "lost" but they have come.
Other times the answers have been swift and immediate as to cut off my mutterings and wonderings. When our house sold in two days, there were no strings left that I could plead with God to say, "Obviously you don't want us to go because..." Case shut, door open, guess it was time for me to move through it.
Well it's been 5 months since we moved here. Some days that seems like a flash in the pan, other days it seems like an eternity. I miss my family and friends. I miss the familiar. I miss my old house and neighborhood. I miss the lakes and summer fun. I miss a yard that I could simply send the kids outside to play in. I miss... and that's okay.
Yet I enjoyed the company of new friends yesterday. I loved watching my kids splash around on the slip and slide with their friends. I enjoyed the wind of this state to cool me off on a 96 degree day. I enjoy time to myself to think. I enjoy a simpler life. I enjoy seeing my husband thrive in his new vocation. I enjoy worshiping with a large community each week who are passionate about loving God and living for Him.
Perspective takes time and often looking outside of ones self. Soon after we moved here, I found myself turning in circles and dwelling on what "I deserved" and what "I lost" or "I gave up..." That's when I found myself "accidentally" reading through the book of Isaiah. I don't believe in life "accidents." There is something to be found in every occasion.
After 5 months, I finished Isaiah and I'm a different person on this side of the book. I'm seeing things in a different light. I'm not as strong as I thought I was, but I have found a way to live each day because strength is a gift from God. I don't have to earn things. I can't earn anything from God. God loves justice and wants us to pursue justice as well. True faith is not just an emotion, but a combination of truth/action/passion/dependence/hope/understanding of the unbelievable gift of forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
I'm stewing on what it means to pursue justice, to help the oppressed, and love widows and orphans. Wondering what that looks like in life in ND?? What do you think?
** Here are a few standouts for me from Isaiah**
Is 26:3-4 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever for the Lord, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.
Is 30:19 How gracious he will be when you cry for help. As soon as he hears, he will answer you. (*note to self - I may not always like the answer)
Is 41:13 For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
Is 43:18-19 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.
Is 51:12 I, even I, am he who comforts you.
Is 54:10 Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken...
Is 59:1 Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save nor his ear too dull to hear.
Is 66:2 ...This is the one I esteem; he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.
In my doubt, we have seen God provide for every one of our needs. Those answers and provisions have often come at the very last moment when all else is "lost" but they have come.
Other times the answers have been swift and immediate as to cut off my mutterings and wonderings. When our house sold in two days, there were no strings left that I could plead with God to say, "Obviously you don't want us to go because..." Case shut, door open, guess it was time for me to move through it.
Well it's been 5 months since we moved here. Some days that seems like a flash in the pan, other days it seems like an eternity. I miss my family and friends. I miss the familiar. I miss my old house and neighborhood. I miss the lakes and summer fun. I miss a yard that I could simply send the kids outside to play in. I miss... and that's okay.
Yet I enjoyed the company of new friends yesterday. I loved watching my kids splash around on the slip and slide with their friends. I enjoyed the wind of this state to cool me off on a 96 degree day. I enjoy time to myself to think. I enjoy a simpler life. I enjoy seeing my husband thrive in his new vocation. I enjoy worshiping with a large community each week who are passionate about loving God and living for Him.
Perspective takes time and often looking outside of ones self. Soon after we moved here, I found myself turning in circles and dwelling on what "I deserved" and what "I lost" or "I gave up..." That's when I found myself "accidentally" reading through the book of Isaiah. I don't believe in life "accidents." There is something to be found in every occasion.
After 5 months, I finished Isaiah and I'm a different person on this side of the book. I'm seeing things in a different light. I'm not as strong as I thought I was, but I have found a way to live each day because strength is a gift from God. I don't have to earn things. I can't earn anything from God. God loves justice and wants us to pursue justice as well. True faith is not just an emotion, but a combination of truth/action/passion/dependence/hope/understanding of the unbelievable gift of forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
I'm stewing on what it means to pursue justice, to help the oppressed, and love widows and orphans. Wondering what that looks like in life in ND?? What do you think?
** Here are a few standouts for me from Isaiah**
Is 26:3-4 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever for the Lord, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.
Is 30:19 How gracious he will be when you cry for help. As soon as he hears, he will answer you. (*note to self - I may not always like the answer)
Is 41:13 For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
Is 43:18-19 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.
Is 51:12 I, even I, am he who comforts you.
Is 54:10 Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken...
Is 59:1 Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save nor his ear too dull to hear.
Is 66:2 ...This is the one I esteem; he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Married to the Law
Okay, so riding in the car use to include my husband pointing out oddities, little known facts, and repeating those pieces of information frequently. Albeit that was amid great conversation, negotiating peace in the backseat between the boys, and me pointing out terrible ad campaigns on billboards.
Now - we play "Name that traffic violation." He becomes quiet and scopes out vehicles and people all around us. I've become very familiar with a few of his favorites including "exhibition driving" (a.k.a. hot dogging) and "unnecessary noise/failure to have required muffler, blah, blah, blah." License plate checks have become far more interesting that the scenery around us.
Ah, life married to the law.
Now - we play "Name that traffic violation." He becomes quiet and scopes out vehicles and people all around us. I've become very familiar with a few of his favorites including "exhibition driving" (a.k.a. hot dogging) and "unnecessary noise/failure to have required muffler, blah, blah, blah." License plate checks have become far more interesting that the scenery around us.
Ah, life married to the law.
Winnipeg
Thinking about visiting Canada - Winnipeg in particular. Anyone have suggestions about what to do there and little to no budget???
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
I'm Having Trouble...
... Composing what in the world to write in this little box. I can think of a multitude of things, but I can't somehow work them into any kind of online conversation. I could chatter on about the boys swim lessons and soccer games (both very amusing), about the hand/foot/mouth virus we had in the house last week leading to a week of exile, or about the post trip blues I had.
But somehow the words won't come.
I feel completely distracted. I am lost in the kitchen. With all of Ryan's new dietary restrictions it's really like learning all over. Think of it like riding a four-wheeler to a unicycle. It's a whole new world.
I really don't know how to put that into words either.
My freelance job ended with the company not being able to pay me for all of my work and "hoping" to have it paid off by the end of summer. I picked up a small side job, but that won't last for long. I'm not sure what I'm going to do next, but I haven't been inspired or directed in any direction - yet.
So I'm just wandering in various directions. None of them seem to be leading anywhere. I'm not sure what I've accomplished at the end of the day. Any suggestions on how to clear the head and get my words back?
But somehow the words won't come.
I feel completely distracted. I am lost in the kitchen. With all of Ryan's new dietary restrictions it's really like learning all over. Think of it like riding a four-wheeler to a unicycle. It's a whole new world.
I really don't know how to put that into words either.
My freelance job ended with the company not being able to pay me for all of my work and "hoping" to have it paid off by the end of summer. I picked up a small side job, but that won't last for long. I'm not sure what I'm going to do next, but I haven't been inspired or directed in any direction - yet.
So I'm just wandering in various directions. None of them seem to be leading anywhere. I'm not sure what I've accomplished at the end of the day. Any suggestions on how to clear the head and get my words back?
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Decompressing
After a 10-day road trip with two boys, lots of friends and family, coping with new child food allergies, almost 2000 miles on the rental car, and my husband at home working... I came back home one tired and happy girl. The boys did AWESOME and made the trip so much easier on me. I couldn't have been prouder. I got to enjoy time with many of my favorite people in this world. Had more than our fair share of fun in the sun. But let me tell ya... we were all whipped.
It was great to be back, but I have to admit it felt less like "home" and it doesn't feel like "home" here yet either. Feeling a bit homeless, but I guess that helped be a bit more content to be here. Everyone has gone on with life. We are missed, but everyone has moved on... I guess that's the way its suppose to be.
After a long road trip, we pulled in at 4 pm and boy #2 had soccer practice at 4:30 and boy #1 at 5:15... and then 3 days of VBS at church. From one whirlwind to another.
So when I hit the weekend I was ready to CRASH. My husband took the boys most of the day on Friday and I got THE DAY ALONE!!! Man, let me tell you how nice that was. I got a bed skirt made and work started on the curtains to go with it for our bedroom while watching "Roman Holiday" and catching up online.
Then today hit... and along with it came hand, foot, and mouth disease. We found out after we got home, that one of my nephews had come down with it. A week later we thought we had dodged the bullet. Nope. Hopefully my baby will be better soon. Big brother seemed to dodge the bullet with just a short fever and a couple of dots.
So now all of our plans for the week are out the window. So I guess it will force me to simplify things for the week, get the house back in order, and watch a few movies.
Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the trip... In reverse order cuz that's blogger for you.
Zonked out after the boat ride over the big lake.
Looks comfortable doesn't it?
Ready for the boat ride across Lake MI (from Michigan to Wisconsin)
The high speed car ferry we squeezed into the rental car into and blew across the big lake.
Sticks and water - what more could kids want?
Playing with friends at the park
HI!!!!
Meeting our new neice/cousin "Mya"
At the Zoo with cousins.
My brother and family at the zoo.
Ryan riding with "Bekah" the favorite babysitter.
My horse loving boy had to try out all the horses.
Opa reading the "loon" book at the cottage. Perfect end to a great day.
Touching the sky - ready to fly.
Uncle Ben is the fishing hero, Aunt Kate caught the big pike.
Woo Hoo
Hammock time
Sleeping sitting up - you know you are tired when...
Helping Opa fix the trolling motor.
Opa's boy...
It was great to be back, but I have to admit it felt less like "home" and it doesn't feel like "home" here yet either. Feeling a bit homeless, but I guess that helped be a bit more content to be here. Everyone has gone on with life. We are missed, but everyone has moved on... I guess that's the way its suppose to be.
After a long road trip, we pulled in at 4 pm and boy #2 had soccer practice at 4:30 and boy #1 at 5:15... and then 3 days of VBS at church. From one whirlwind to another.
So when I hit the weekend I was ready to CRASH. My husband took the boys most of the day on Friday and I got THE DAY ALONE!!! Man, let me tell you how nice that was. I got a bed skirt made and work started on the curtains to go with it for our bedroom while watching "Roman Holiday" and catching up online.
Then today hit... and along with it came hand, foot, and mouth disease. We found out after we got home, that one of my nephews had come down with it. A week later we thought we had dodged the bullet. Nope. Hopefully my baby will be better soon. Big brother seemed to dodge the bullet with just a short fever and a couple of dots.
So now all of our plans for the week are out the window. So I guess it will force me to simplify things for the week, get the house back in order, and watch a few movies.
Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the trip... In reverse order cuz that's blogger for you.
Zonked out after the boat ride over the big lake.
Looks comfortable doesn't it?
Ready for the boat ride across Lake MI (from Michigan to Wisconsin)
The high speed car ferry we squeezed into the rental car into and blew across the big lake.
Sticks and water - what more could kids want?
Playing with friends at the park
HI!!!!
Meeting our new neice/cousin "Mya"
At the Zoo with cousins.
My brother and family at the zoo.
Ryan riding with "Bekah" the favorite babysitter.
My horse loving boy had to try out all the horses.
Opa reading the "loon" book at the cottage. Perfect end to a great day.
Touching the sky - ready to fly.
Uncle Ben is the fishing hero, Aunt Kate caught the big pike.
Woo Hoo
Hammock time
Sleeping sitting up - you know you are tired when...
Helping Opa fix the trolling motor.
Opa's boy...Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Plane Has Landed
My mom is here! It's good to see her after 4 long months. We've got a short time together and then a road trip. I haven't spent this much concentrated time with my mom since I was in high school. It's an adventure to say the least.
I'm a bit nervous about visiting home and finding that it may not be "home" anymore. We are settled, but not necessarily "at home" in our surroundings. God provides though.
I'm a bit nervous about visiting home and finding that it may not be "home" anymore. We are settled, but not necessarily "at home" in our surroundings. God provides though.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Life Goes On...
Oh blahde, Oh blahda, life goes on, oh, aaaaah, life goes on...
It always does. I'm in the blindsided stage right now, but I know that life will go on... We found out yesterday that Ryan's food allergies have grown. Added to the known peanut/cat/dog allergy we no are listing wheat, milk, egg, dust, and mites.
How and what we eat is about to dramatically change. In the meantime we are taking small steps while trying to figure this whole thing out. Food is an integral part of everything we do. To top it off, I'm just a little over a week away from heading to MI for 10 days with family and friends. That means a lot of educating people about what we are doing with his diet and why.
I'm trying to remember as a wise friend told me, that I've had a lot longer to learn about this then they have, and to be patient with them. Hoping and praying that this isn't an issue that becomes a struggle and respect abounds on all sides.
On the upside of the trip, I'll be with several friends who have significant food allergies that can begin to counsel, advise, resource, and encourage us.
I have an appointment coming for a pediatric nutritionist as well to help guide with kid friendly options. I'm really looking forward to this time.
So prayers are welcome as we figure out our course of action, consider whether to pursue the sub-lingual drops (desensitization), and keep everyone feed and happy. God will provide.
It always does. I'm in the blindsided stage right now, but I know that life will go on... We found out yesterday that Ryan's food allergies have grown. Added to the known peanut/cat/dog allergy we no are listing wheat, milk, egg, dust, and mites.
How and what we eat is about to dramatically change. In the meantime we are taking small steps while trying to figure this whole thing out. Food is an integral part of everything we do. To top it off, I'm just a little over a week away from heading to MI for 10 days with family and friends. That means a lot of educating people about what we are doing with his diet and why.
I'm trying to remember as a wise friend told me, that I've had a lot longer to learn about this then they have, and to be patient with them. Hoping and praying that this isn't an issue that becomes a struggle and respect abounds on all sides.
On the upside of the trip, I'll be with several friends who have significant food allergies that can begin to counsel, advise, resource, and encourage us.
I have an appointment coming for a pediatric nutritionist as well to help guide with kid friendly options. I'm really looking forward to this time.
So prayers are welcome as we figure out our course of action, consider whether to pursue the sub-lingual drops (desensitization), and keep everyone feed and happy. God will provide.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Shopping
Warning: Girl post ahead.
If there is something worse than jean shopping it is bathing suit shopping. My two dreaded adventures. I've put both off for a long time, and it is long past time to replenish my closet and drawers, but I have to do so without breaking the bank. So let the shopping begin.
Okay, let me vent for a moment. I really don't think designers have a clue about what women want to wear at the beach let alone in the back-yard sprinkler.
Along with that I got 2 pair of Tommy Hilfiger jeans and two pair of capris for $3 each at a garage sale this weekend and they fit perfect.
Woo hoo for summer deals.
If there is something worse than jean shopping it is bathing suit shopping. My two dreaded adventures. I've put both off for a long time, and it is long past time to replenish my closet and drawers, but I have to do so without breaking the bank. So let the shopping begin.
Okay, let me vent for a moment. I really don't think designers have a clue about what women want to wear at the beach let alone in the back-yard sprinkler.
- First of all, I'm a modest person. I think it's respectful to everyone around me as well as my husband to keep my assets covered. I don't think designers believe people like me exist anymore because they certainly aren't providing products for us.
- Second of all, I have children who are prone to push or pull on things in embarrassing directions, run off towards danger requiring me to run after them, and want me to play all sorts of games in the water. I'd like my suit to stay on in those endeavors.
- Next, God gave me things for feeding my babies that don't fit well under a 2.5" X 2.5" patch of fabric on strings, also see reason #1 and #2. If my undergarments require support for the ladies, so does my suit.
- If you need more support and coverage it doesn't mean that you want to dress like a grandma at the beach. Enough of the ruffles, girlie fabrics, and rouching down the center.
- If the top of the suit will not stay on in the dressing room, it won't stay on when it's wet. Waves happen.
- Strings will only hold so much for so long.
Along with that I got 2 pair of Tommy Hilfiger jeans and two pair of capris for $3 each at a garage sale this weekend and they fit perfect.
Woo hoo for summer deals.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Mom Help Needed
Any idea on how to deal with bathroom regression in a 3-year-old?? I'm at a loss. Incentives aren't working, consequences aren't working... Help.
Saturday, May 08, 2010
Mother's Day
It's been one of those mom weeks. One of those where I am tired and worn down. The constant pressing and testing of a 3-year-old. The developing independence of a 6-year-old. Sibling rivalry at every turn.
Yes one of those weeks. The ones where you say things you wish you hadn't, snip back at petty childish things that aren't wrong but still annoying, and find yourself apologizing to your kids.
As I found myself wishing for relief tonight, I remembered my desperation and discouragement of facing another Mother's Day 7 years ago. Desperately wanting a child and wondering why God hadn't blessed us with one. Everyone else was expecting - accidently, unwanted, or for the multiple time... Why not us??? I cried about going to church and having to listen to the tributes to Moms and the message about what an honor it is to be a mom.
I don't know why we went through those barren days. I don't know why God chose to bless us with two energetic boys. But I do know that those memories were a blessing to me. Perspective is a beautiful thing.
Thank you God for the precious and challenging gift of my boys. They teach me so much about myself and challenge me to be more like you. Thank you for giving me what I need everyday. Thank you for the joy of an unexpected hug, words of love, and adventures everyday.
Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there. You are amazing women. Praying for those whose heart aches missing a mother or long to live that dream...
Yes one of those weeks. The ones where you say things you wish you hadn't, snip back at petty childish things that aren't wrong but still annoying, and find yourself apologizing to your kids.
As I found myself wishing for relief tonight, I remembered my desperation and discouragement of facing another Mother's Day 7 years ago. Desperately wanting a child and wondering why God hadn't blessed us with one. Everyone else was expecting - accidently, unwanted, or for the multiple time... Why not us??? I cried about going to church and having to listen to the tributes to Moms and the message about what an honor it is to be a mom.
I don't know why we went through those barren days. I don't know why God chose to bless us with two energetic boys. But I do know that those memories were a blessing to me. Perspective is a beautiful thing.
Thank you God for the precious and challenging gift of my boys. They teach me so much about myself and challenge me to be more like you. Thank you for giving me what I need everyday. Thank you for the joy of an unexpected hug, words of love, and adventures everyday.
Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there. You are amazing women. Praying for those whose heart aches missing a mother or long to live that dream...
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Encouragement
God has blessed me with so much encouragement in 24 hours. I'm so grateful for friends and family. There is something so powerful about the words we use to encourage others. Reminds me to use mine more often.
We've gotten plugged into a small group from our church and are SO happy to get to know people. The group is doing the video series of the book "Love and Respect" on marriage. It's a great resource looking at how men need respect and women need love and how that plays out in it's absence and in it's application/presence. Definitely recommend the book/video series...
Andy has a few days off during the week and I'm looking forward to having him around on a normal schedule. The boys are excited for some dad time too. Looks like we are off to a good start to the week, just hoping little boy attitudes (and mine) keep it going in that direction.
We've gotten plugged into a small group from our church and are SO happy to get to know people. The group is doing the video series of the book "Love and Respect" on marriage. It's a great resource looking at how men need respect and women need love and how that plays out in it's absence and in it's application/presence. Definitely recommend the book/video series...
Andy has a few days off during the week and I'm looking forward to having him around on a normal schedule. The boys are excited for some dad time too. Looks like we are off to a good start to the week, just hoping little boy attitudes (and mine) keep it going in that direction.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Understood
I'm working on eating healthier. I've been reading, learning, experimenting, trying...
My husband and his cohort jokingly (partially) call their wives/us "communists" for our similar health pursuits. Others think I'm wasting my time/money/being over reactive. Other have been supportive.
I started filling in my boys about what I'm doing and why I'm not buying certain things for them anymore. Ryan took that and ran with it. Tonight he told Andy he shouldn't be drinking Pepsi anymore because it has chemicals in it. That's not going to go over well. Andy lives on his favorite soda. It would go about as well as Ryan telling me no more coffee.
For now I'm just working on eliminating food coloring, high fructose corn syrup, and hydrogenated oils. That's a lot. If I can find deals on organic, natural, or items that have very few ingredients - than that's what I'm doing.
For some reason I'm finding myself being very sensitive about this. I just want to be understood for what it is... me trying to my best with what I know. Maybe once I feel like I know what I'm doing I won't be so reactionary to people comments. Maybe I will. I guess time will tell.
My husband and his cohort jokingly (partially) call their wives/us "communists" for our similar health pursuits. Others think I'm wasting my time/money/being over reactive. Other have been supportive.
I started filling in my boys about what I'm doing and why I'm not buying certain things for them anymore. Ryan took that and ran with it. Tonight he told Andy he shouldn't be drinking Pepsi anymore because it has chemicals in it. That's not going to go over well. Andy lives on his favorite soda. It would go about as well as Ryan telling me no more coffee.
For now I'm just working on eliminating food coloring, high fructose corn syrup, and hydrogenated oils. That's a lot. If I can find deals on organic, natural, or items that have very few ingredients - than that's what I'm doing.
For some reason I'm finding myself being very sensitive about this. I just want to be understood for what it is... me trying to my best with what I know. Maybe once I feel like I know what I'm doing I won't be so reactionary to people comments. Maybe I will. I guess time will tell.
Happiest Backside in Town
My couch and chair were delivered today. My backside is thrilled to not be sitting on a futon. It's three years later than expected, but I am oh so much more grateful for them...
I can envision many happy rainy/snowy afternoons snuggled up in this chair with a book or my laptop...
I painted these canvases to go in the lower level (family room/play area) with the old futon and chairs. We were given an old wooden desk that we've sanded down and painting black along with a shelf Andy built for the nursery. A few more "bright" accents in the basement and I'll be done downstairs. Just need to finish making curtains, bedskirt, and a throw pillow for our room and I'll be done. I've been able to do most everything with items we had on hand already (except the new couch and chair).
I can envision many happy rainy/snowy afternoons snuggled up in this chair with a book or my laptop...
I painted these canvases to go in the lower level (family room/play area) with the old futon and chairs. We were given an old wooden desk that we've sanded down and painting black along with a shelf Andy built for the nursery. A few more "bright" accents in the basement and I'll be done downstairs. Just need to finish making curtains, bedskirt, and a throw pillow for our room and I'll be done. I've been able to do most everything with items we had on hand already (except the new couch and chair).
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