It's All About Perspective

 

I have mentioned over and over and over about how I hate snow.  However, it is snowing right now, a rain/snow mix actually, and I am happy.  The past eight years I have been extremely unhappy with one of my life situations but since correcting that problem, I still have my kids and husband if you were wondering, I am looking forward to Christmas and even to snow.  I am seeing the beautiful in the everyday again.

 

Lucy was so excited to see the snow.  Our preschoolers at work spent yesterday excited about the prospect of a weekend snow.  The excitement has been contagious.  Now mind you, I still really dislike being cold and I HATE driving on ice.  But I also HATE driving in fog but  I don't hate the other seasons because of it. 

 

I am working on my issues right now. I have joined an amazing group of women and we are doing life together .  We are dealing with all our inner yuck and the reasons why we have it.  We are diving in, stirring it up, dissecting it, and dealing with it.  Yep, 40 plus years of stuff in the vault. Believe it our not, my burden is lightening.

 

What are you holding on to my friends? Let it go.  Don't just bury it, it will always float back up. God is with us, he knows our story, Jesus is our savior, and people are his hands and feet.  Find a trusted group and work through it.  Do life with other people, don't just exist....LIVE.

 



Friday Favorites

 

Hello Friday!!

 

I absolutely LOVE my new job as  a Preschool Aide, but let me tell you.  Dealing with almost 80 3,4, and 5 year olds five days a week makes a lady tired!! I don't think my age has a darn thing to do with it.  I could literally fall asleep the second I get home and sit down, but I try to hold off until at least 9. Just to be sociable with the hubs and 4 children I created. 

 

Anywho... what are my favorites this week?


1. Playdough....We make fresh homemade playdough each week that concides with the theme.  We have had pumpkin pie, cinnamon, cranberry, chocolate, sparkly,, and a rainbow of beautiful colors.  I think playdough is a very relaxing sensory activity and enjoy sitting down with the children and listening to what they are creating (lots of pretend birthday cakes and snowmen).


Yeah, My job is the best...I even practiced my name writing skills

2.  Dollar General... it reminds me of the little Walmarts of the past.

Some of my weekly finds

 

3.  Cheese and Crackers... My lunch almost everyday at my new job.  I now buy the good cheese slices instead of the kraft singles.  I had no idea how much I liked it.

4. Boys basketball (both Junior High and High School).  I love watching my gals cheer but I also really love how competitive and into the game those young men get.  Plus the comradery makes me tear up. 

5.  Traditional Thanksgiving food... I love that all the restaurants seem to be "practicing".  I even have been able to enjoy my favorite Cranberry Relish from the deli of my favorite grocery store.  LOVE LOVE LOVE me some comfort food!

 

One of the beautiful morning sunrises on the way to work

 

Winter To Do List...

 

 

 

Because it is already mid November, I have decided to do my winter to do list and include some November activities. If you have read through my past posts, I stated I would not be doing a winter to do list.  However, I am a flake and have changed my mind.  Or just a woman and can do that...wink wink.  Any way, her is what I have planned to accomplish...

 

Christmas picture and cards completed and made by November 30th

 

The tree WILL be put up the Wednesday before Thanksgiving so that it is DONE

 

I am hoping to have all Christmas presents bought and wrapped by November 30th.  I know there will always be last minute things to pick up.

 

I am making all my Christmas cookies (and I cheat and use the pull apart and bake kind) the first Monday that School is out for break.

 

I want to make some red hots popcorn this year (yummy).

 

Christmas is going to be low key, family centered, and fun this year.  Very little stress.

 

I want to take some fun and pretty pictures of my girls in the snow this year.  I am working on my photography skills still.

 

I am trying to learn how to REALLY crochet this winter, instead of just looming.  I have been watching YOU TUBE videos.  I am planning to start with some dish cloths.  I have wanted to do this for years and this is the year.

 

This should keep me busy for a couple of months and hopefully I can report back with a fully checked off  list!!

 

 

What's Going On Around Here

For Today...October 24,2015

Outside My Window... A beautiful fall day.  Lots of fallen leaves from our hundred year Maple trees. I am not a fan of raking them up because I think they make the ground so beautiful and I love the crunch and swish sound when you walk through.

I am thinking...how much I love fall.  The coziness of it all.  Pumpkin spice, chili, high school football, Halloween, back to school, Honey Crisp apples, sweaters and boots.

I am thankful...for a great family, good friends, a job I love, and  all the blessings God gives me everyday.

I am wearing...It is 9:30 on Saturday morning, so my pajama pants and a Titans football tee shirt.  Styling.

I am creating...nothing lately but I have been  pintresting like crazy :)

I am going...to the high school's first murder mystery dinner this evening.  Cassie is in it, Madi is serving, and all the proceeds go to support the Spring Musical.  It is going to be fun! 

I am hoping... that this warmer fall holds out for another month :) I am loving the temps.

In my kitchen... I am planning to make our favorite crockpot cheese dip this afternoon.  The kind with velvetta, rotel, and hamburger....yummmm

Happy Saturday!

September Currently

 

 

Today I am using Farley's currently from Oh Boy Fourth Grade for my writing prompt. 

 

I am listening to...the sound of my phone going off every two minutes. I usually don't have the sound on because repetitive sounds tend to drive me a little crazy.

 

Loving...that the air has cooled off just enough to make sitting outside not a sweat fest but still warm enough to be "summer".

 

Thinking that... I only have two more days left at my current job.  I really love it there but am so looking forward to my new job as a Preschool paraprofessional.  It truly is bittersweet to leave.

 

Wanting... a few more days off to get things in real order, but I guess that will have to wait for Christmas Break (Yeah!! I get an official Christmas Break!!)

 

Needing..to quit thinking I "need" anything.  I am learning to really trust God for my needs and it is really refreshing.  He knows what I need and is providing it as necessary.  It is such a freeing feeling and one this worry wart is not used to.

 

3 Goals... 1) to really commit to my Plexus plan and lose some chub. 2) to enjoy my 31 business and stop getting bogged down in my head on how to "market" it more  3)  to really enjoy Fall this year without worrying about Winter (that ugly word) right around the corner :)

 

 

 

Enjoy your week, and just think "Pumpkin Spice Everything" is in full swing now!! Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!!!



What is going on here.....

 

No linking or anything like that, I just thought I would share what is Currently Going On Around here....

 

Listening to...not a darn thing.  Lucy is at Girl Scouts, Cassie is hanging with her man, Madison is with a friend, Doug is playing pool, and my oldest Katie has flown the coop. The dogs are barking at the neighbors which is getting on my nerves to be quite honest.  I am sure it is getting on the neighbor's nerves as well....muzzle?? Just kidding.

 

Reading...not much of anything right now.  I am just not into it at the time. 

 

Thinking about...what color to paint Lucy's furniture now that she has here own room.  I am thinking about a turquoise color.  Her furniture is antique.  Madison (the junior higher) wants her room repainted navy blue.  I am sure this will look black, but there is no convincing her otherwise.  Help!!

 

Cooking...tonight is Hamburger Helper and cottage cheese.  Oh well, I am the stereotypical working mom.

 

Drinking...not telling but it isn't a coke.  Just sayin...

 

So what is going on in your world this week???

 

 

 

 



Legal Things

 

You may not take or use my personal family photos without asking first. (Copyright).  Unless you are in my family, I probably will not give you permission, don't be mad :)

I try to link back, but sometimes I forget, please excuse me, and will not be offended if you remind me.  I will get it corrected ASAP. That goes with Copyright, so I do really try to remember to link.

I am a Christian with Christian values.  I will try not to offend with my beliefs but this is my space on the Internet.  If you don't agree with me, don't be hateful, just quit reading my stuff.  Free speech is my right too.

 

 

Now that stuff is out of the way, I hope you enjoy reading and connecting with me.  I love to connect with people and try to be a peaceful spot in your day.  However, I can vent and complain with the best of them on occasion :)  I do not use this blog to be mean, slander, or portray us as the "perfect family".  I don't like to read other people's dirty laundry and I don't share mine :)

Sunday Salon

 

 

Time: 10:21 am (whoops I know, should at church)

 

Scene: The kitchen table.  It is rainy and a little cooler today, but still humid.  I wouldn't mind a good thunder storm sometime today.

 

Today's Plan:  The last day of the Community Theater's musical, The Sound of Music.  To say it hasn't been amazing every evening and that I am not a proud mama would be a lie.  I have LOVED this production!! However, the hubs and daughter are exhausted and are ready for some lazy days of  summer finally :) This cast worked hard and put their all in it and it shows.

 

Listening to:  Doug and little Lucy banter back and forth.  Everyone else is quiet, kind of watching television and kind of dozing.  Sunday is a day to rest, correct?

 

Drinking: My 3rd (gasp) cup of Kahlua coffee with Bailey's Irish Creme Creamer (nonalcoholic).  I might be shaking here in a few minutes :) But I have been up for awhile, so I have at least spaced them out. 

 

Giving Thanks for:  Everything. I am feeling very grateful for what I have (and don't) lately.

 

Have a wonderful Sunday and enjoy your family, friends, and home today :) Also, link up with my friend My Cup Runneth Over 

 

 



Daybook for July 13th...

 

Good Morning!! 

 

I am trying to get back to my blog after a couple months hiatis.... I know, you have all been distraught at my absence...lol   Anyway, what better way than with a couple of link ups.  Today I am linking up with The Simple Woman . 

 

Outside my window.... It is another hot and humid day.  There is a heat advisory on as well as some severe thunder storm watches.  hmmm

 

Thinking... That I am tired of rain for awhile.  It is too buggy right now. 

 

Thankful for... Coffee to help me start my day since I have to drive 2-3 mornings a week to a neighboring town to drop cheerleaders off for practice, before going to work the other direction.

 

Wearing... A skirt and sleeveless blouse because of the above stated heat advisory. 

 

Creating...  a calmer life.  My friend from college who lives in Ireland now was talking about how simple life is there and how no one is trying to impress or keep up with others.  Wow.... I wish I lived in Ireland. That is exactly what I am working to create here and have been making major life changes to do just that.  I am hoping to get there sooner rather than later.

 

Going... to work in a little while.  I LOVE my job now!! I love being with children all day, especially the babies :)

 

Wondering...  if summer will quit feeling like Seattle here in the midwest.

 

Learning.. That life isn't about possessions, it is about time and being intentional.

 

 Cooking...  hahahha...I think I have just given up on that with our summer activities.  Doug cooks meat on the smoker and I get out the cottage cheese and fruit...supper done :) 

 

I am not necessarily complaining about the heat around here.  I LOVE summer.  However, the mosquitos have been feeding on my arms and ankles this year because of all the moisture.  Ugghhh.  I keep scratching and making them bleed, so therefore I look accident prone with all my band aids.  I am ready for a stretch of true July days with sun, heat, and time on the deck.  Have a wonderful week!



Sunday Salon

 

 

Today I am linking up with My Cup Runneth Over to let you know how the day is going.

 

Time: 7:08 pm

 

Scene: Hot and Humid!!

 

Today's Plan:  This morning the hubby and I went to church without kids.  I know, I know....we should probably "make them go" but some times we just let them sleep instead of the craziness of everyone getting ready at the same time.  Church and Sunday School were good, I then watched Doug do chores on the farm (yep, I watched), and then went to see an old college friend who was at our alma mater visiting.  I had not seen her in 16 years and Doug had never met her.  She now lives in Ireland (isn't that cool!), and then home so Doug and Cassie can start their tech week practices for the community theater musical they are in and Lucy had a Vacation Bible School kick off pool party. 

 

 I am listening to:  Madi complain about mowing....it has been an all day chore for her.  I even let her leave and go to the pool.  Side note.....this should not be an all day chore but when you stop the mower every two seconds to come inside for something, it tends to become one.

 

I am drinking:  A cold refreshing Coca Cola of course. 

 

I am Thankful for:  Spending time with an old friend, praising Jesus in a small town, the independence of a country that I can do this in, and even that junior higher that needs to be reminded every two seconds to finish the yard...lol.  By the way, the mower just stopped again.....

 

Happy Sunday!!

 

 



For week of June 1...

Outside My Window...A little cool for the start of summer, only in the 60's today...brrr

I Am Thinking... about kittens.  Clementine is the proud mommy of 4 little fur balls who are starting to get pretty spunky.

I Am Thinking...  how much more relaxed I feel now that I switched jobs and am spending more time at home. I am a Curriculum Coordinator at a Christian Preschool/Daycare now and have also started selling Thirty One Gifts.
 

I Am Wearing... khaki's, a blue Under Armor tee shirt, and a black cardigan.

I Am Going...  To Boston in June! Visiting with my Brother in law and Sister in law.  It has been almost a year since I have seen their precious faces! I can't wait!

I Am Reading... a book about a lady with Bipolar Disorder.  It is a true story and just makes my heart hurt for her :(

Around The House... All the stuff that has been on the back burner because of my old job.

In The Kitchen... Cassidy made a taco dip and since we only have a small part of the crew home to eat this evening, that my dears will be supper :)

Favorite Picture This Week....

 

These two were both in the local High School's musical (hubby had a very bit part) and are getting ready to start rehearsals for the summer community musical.  This will be their third musical together! 

 

I am linking up with SWDB  to share my week and look forward to reading yours!

Unleash Your Power to Rise Above

I am not sure I like this topic, I am not sure I like having to rise above.  Why? Because I don't like the messy situation you have to be in to make the choice to take the High Road.  Do you?  

Let's face it.  Life is MESSY!  Everyday creates some situation, big or little, in which we have to forgive, forget, overcome, or just muddle through.  We are all in situations that require us to Rise Above.  

Recently I decided to quit my job.  I based this on many factors: what was best for my family, my home, and myself.  I had to pray for God's clarity and guidance.  I also had to have faith that what I heard him telling me was correct.  I searched the scriptures to find God's vision for family, on obedience to him and to my husband, and for peace.  I felt confident when I made my decision to put in my resignation and peaceful since then.

Rising Above requires the same diligence.  Sometimes just praying for the courage to take the high road or the road less traveled is all you have to do but sometimes you also need to search the scriptures to make sure that is the path God is leading you take.  You can not just trust your feelings or "instincts", you must listen to the Holy Spirit.

We all have struggles. We all have troubles.  We all suffer.  We all have the choice to Rise Above.

Join in with Jill Savage of Hearts at Home for the Third Thursday Blog Hop and share your thoughts on the power of Rising Above.

Daybook

Today is March 30, 2015

Outside my window is....  sunny and will be in the 60's later today.  Yeah Spring!

I am thinking....that this week is such an amazing week.  Holy Week.  

I am thankful....that Jesus died on the cross for me and my sins.  He did this for all of us, Every single one of us.

I am wearing... black pants, a grey sweater, and a scarf.  Not very Spring like, but it is still chilly in the mornings and at my office.

I am going...to one of my favorite family child care homes to read today.

I am wondering....how the weekends go so quickly.  We were crazy busy Saturday and crazy lazy on Sunday after church.  I wish I had one more day to do some chores.

I am learning...  that I have so much peace when I listen to God and his plans.  I had been really trying to do life on my own and not listen.  Even as a bible reading Christian, we can still get out of focus on him.

Around the house...  I am ready to start working outside and am already checking out the garden aisles at Walmart in anticipation.  My deck is my happy place!!

In the kitchen... I made beef and noodles yesterday.  Amazing if I do say so myself.  Sunday comfort food. 

A peak into my day... I will be going to work and then to a birthday party this evening for my niece and nephew.  Fun times with family is what life is about :)

Have a wonderful week.  Link up with The Simple Woman and share your daybook as well :)

Unleash the Power to Be Yourself

Free to be me !!!! Wow, if it only felt that easy.  I am a hot mess people.  I struggle with body image, fashion image, being good enough, being nice enough, being helpful enough, and on and on and on....

God says I am fearfully and wonderfully made.  He knit me in my mother's womb.  He is honored by letting his light shine through me.  He knows I am beautiful and lovely and  a sinner.

Yep, I am a sinner.  I mess up a lot!  I do not end my day feeling like it was the bomb, but I do end my day praying to God to forgive my sins and to help me do better the next day.  I do this every single night....  and he forgives me.....every single night.  

I am so thankful for God who loves me like that.  Who besides God could?  I know my family loves me but they are human.  Wiping the slate clean every single day is not something that comes easily to us.  I wish God had given us the ability to completely erase from our minds when we are hurt or hurt others so that we truly could forgive and FORGET.

Thank you Jesus for leaving your Holy Spirit with us to live in us and help to make our sins fewer than they would be otherwise.  Help me to listen closely and more often to the Holy Spirit so that I make better and wiser decisions.  Help me to understand your words and promises and love me for the Hot Mess that I am.  

I am striving every day to let my uniqueness as a person and my acceptance of that uniqueness shine through.  I want people to know the real me.  Jesus came to set the captives free!  Therefore, I am truly free to be me !

Join Jill Savage from Hearts At Home in the Third Thursday Blog Hop and share how you are Unleashing Your Power To Be Yourself...

Ok, I lied...... Spring Goals/To Do

 

 

I said I was giving up on the seasonal to do/goal list.  Well, I lied. I have decided I am giving up on the Winter list only.  Winter is a hard time for me emotionally and just getting through the weeks with no sun and lots of sad memories is more than I can handle sometimes.  Spring is always a welcome site with sun and flowers and rain (I love rain) and all the rebirth of nature.  So, here is what I plan to accomplish this Spring....

 

 

 

 

Spring To Do List:

 

 

Dye Easter eggs before Easter this year.  This should be easy but hasn't happened in years....

 

Get back on a money saving/frugality plan.  I used to be pretty awesome at this, but somehow we started living like we were the Kardashians (well,not really).  I will probably not coupon simply because of the time requirement, but will start ad matching and eliminating the fluff that we don't need. I have fallen into "keeping up with the Jones" and that has not been good.  I may even make some frugal posts for the blog.

 

 

Walk more and eat less sweets. I am even looking into the Plexus plan.  I need some help with cutting sweet cravings.  Back in the days of being skinny, I never craved sweets.  After children, it was insane.  I think it is hormone related, but any help getting past it would be appreciated.  I will let you all know what I decide.

 

Watch Friday Night Lights on Netflix.  I LOVE me some high school football and keep being told to watch the show.  I may just give into another guilty pleasure. 

 

I reviewed a book this past winter and really enjoyed it.  I am planning to start another book for review.  Please follow along and I promise to give an honest review.  I am a reader, I love that my job includes books and promoting a love of literacy.

 

Get my home and family back in order.  We have been off the charts unorganized and it shows in our home, grades, and stress levels.  I know God is leaning me in a certain direction, I know I am resisting.  I know this will end up God's way one way or another....

 

 

So, we will see how this list goes.  Some things will be easy to check off and others will require some more effort.  I would love to hear if you all do a seasonal goal list and how it works for you :)  

A Must Read for All Millenium Moms and Dads

A few times on the blog, I have referenced to that fact I am reviewing a book.  I am pleased to announce that it is being released today, March 5th! Run, don't walk to get this book!

Honestly, whether your children are teenagers or newborns, this book is a must.  What I found out is that even as an adult, my views of how connected I am, want to be, or should be were called into question.  The technology age has taken us by storm, is moving at the speed of light, and is most importantly here to stay.

Our children are the technology natives.  They have never been without it and probably never will be.  So, how as parents are we going to address it?

Dr. Koch gives us practical advice and asks important questions to get us thinking about what are views are, our current practices, how technology fits into our value system,family dynamics, and family goals.  She does not try to convince us that technology is bad, but to make sure we are navigating these waters with our family purposes/values in mind.

As part of my profession, I educate child care providers on the use, abuse, and appropriate ways to incorporate technology and media into their programs.  I feel that this book is an open minded approach to get us thinking as parents what our next steps are and why in this technology age.

Dr. Koch is part of Celebrate Kids, Inc. and will speaking at this year's .Hearts at Home Conference   make sure to check out her site and resources and plug into your family as well as yourself on this very important and ever changing  topic.

  

It's OK

Time for some grumbling, snarkiness, and maybe a little bad attitude...

So who came up with flowered scented dish soap?  Someone who drinks perfume?  This is just so gross. Really.

Why must the good foods be fattening?  Why is Coca Cola bad for your weight, health, teeth,etc. but so good for your mood?  I would say that it is just me but the fact it is a billion dollar industry would contradict that, just sayin.

Why did God not give me the love of cooking to match my love of eating home cooked foods?  

Where do all my socks go? Really, my house is not that big.

Is it really necessary to get hot sweats at night?  Wouldn't society be better if the menopausal women at least were well rested? 

I think I need a snickers, I am definitely in Diva mode today!! 

Friday's Fav Five

Today I am joining it with a new link up for me.  It is hosted by Living to Tell the Story.  

My Friday Fav Five list goes something like this...

1. My three older girls were still up watching television together when I went to bed last night.  My room is right next to the living room so I could hear their conversations.  Although I wasn't ease dropping, I did start to listen.  They were talking about casual and personal things.  I realized that they are all growing up and their conversations with each other are growing as well.  It was like listening to a group of 3 women talking over coffee.  My heart wanted to burst and I may have teared up or actually cried..... maybe. I am so thankful for this wonderful bond they will have with each other for the rest of their lives.

2.  I am just thankful it is Friday.... we have had snow and strep throat at our house this week.  I am ready to shut the books on this week and look forward to a fresh start next week.  I am so thankful God gives us a new day each morning to move forward.

3.  Our pets.  I saw this funny on Facebook and it reminded me of our pets.  The dog actually looks like one of ours.  We got Fred after he was found cold and wet wandering the streets.  His family was located but they didn't want him.  He is such a blessing to our family and we love him so much.  Our other dog Chloe was given to us when her owner just couldn't take care of the needs of a puppy. She was well taken care of but not a good fit there but has been for us.  She is quite the diva but that is ok with me, we have a lot of diva's in our house :) And then there are the Kitty Girls.  They were supposed to be cats for the farm but you can't get a box of kittens and then move them away to fend for themselves after you have fallen in love.  Three of the five moved out this summer (I guess cats do that) but these two are here to stay.  One even follows the girls to school sometimes and has been known to show back up to visit at p.e. time during the warm weather.  Yep, the neighborhood knows our pets as well as our children...

4.  The Shamrock shake is back at McDonald's.  I have not had one yet, but will soon :)  One of my springtime favorites...

5.  Make up.  I started my Ipsy bag subscription back up this month after taking a few months off.  I realized I love happy mail and I love trying new products.  What I don't like, I pass on to one of my girl's who are more than excited about that.  

So there you have it.  Have a wonderful week and be sure to link up and read some of the other links.  I love making new Blogging friends!! 

Unleash Your Power to Respect

It is time for the 3rd Thursday Blog Hop with Jill Savage from Hearts at Home....

I found this quote and used it on another post about a month ago, but it is fitting for this one as well...

Every individual has a place to fill in the world, and is important in some respect, whether he chooses to be so or not. ~ Nathaniel Hawthorne

Respect truly is a super power some days.  Especially on those days when you have to deal with individuals who you don't feel are deserving of your respect.  I know as an adult I struggle with showing respect when other people are being less than respectful of me, but can you imagine how our children feel most days?

More so than when I was younger, adults are becoming more and more disrespectful to our children.  Mostly because they themselves are acting more and more like children.  Why is this?  Why are adult men and women resorting to childlike behavior?  As a parent, I witness teachers, friends and their parents, and authority figures being completely immature.  They are throwing bratty fits, allowing their own children to rule the roost, and involving themselves in their children's lives in unhealthy ways.

Recently I have had many incidents with parents and my children's friends that have brought this to a more glaring light to me.  Parents not only allowing but condoning their children's disregard of other children's feelings.  As a parent, we need to encourage our children to consider other people's feelings and not their own selfish desires.

 I have many specific examples from my 18 plus years of parenting that I could share on this subject.  As a society, we have become self centered and narcissistic.  Respect will definitely take a downward tumble as this continues to snowball.  As parents, we have to unleash this super power of Respect in order to raise men and women who will not only give but get respect in their relationships with others.  Being an example is the first step in the right direction.

Daybook

Linking up The Simple Woman's Blog with my week's plan

 Week of February 16th....

Outside my window... Snow. 

I am thinking... that I can handle the above mentioned snow since we are on the tail end of winter.  Yes!!

I am thankful... that I have a warm home, a loving family, and enough of everything I need.

I am wearing... the same thing I wore for Valentines Day with my hubby.  My black sweater and red scarf.  I did wear something different yesterday :)

I am creating... nothing.  I am pinning like crazy, that is my hobby as of the past few weeks.  I guess I could call it "planning", but really it is mindless entertainment.

I am going...to get that laundry caught up.  Someday.  Like when the kids are all grown and out of the house.  Like in 10 plus years.  Like in time for them to start doing mine.  Hahahaha. 

I am wondering...if Lucy will ever truly forgive me for slamming her cat's tail in the garage door.  By accident.  It was a rough Saturday afternoon.  The cat snuck into the garage behind me and I didn't notice until I had slammed the door.  The tip of her tail was caught.  I broke the tail and now we have to wait for it to possibly fall off.  She is not acting like she is in any pain, but poor Lucy is taking it hard. I am feeling so horrible :(

A few plans..Outside of a couple of games, not much on the calendar this week.  

I am reading... Tattoos On The Heart.  It is a book about a ministry in Los Angeles that works with Gangs.  It is such an eye opener as well as a heart opener. I used to work with the mentally ill and have had gang members as clients before.  It is a subculture that is hard to understand until you get to know the members as people instead of the stereotypes in your head.  I am really loving this book.

I am praying... for my nephew who I love so much.  He could use your prayers as well if you would please.  

I am learning...God has bigger plans than what I see for myself.  

In the kitchen... I am just not feeling it so far this week.  Doug made an amazing bacon wrapped pork loin on the smoker last night.  I would be happy to just make Ramen noodles tonight....just kidding...kind of.

  

Daybook....

Good Morning, I am linking up with The Simple Woman's Blog for the weekly Daybook

For today... February 9, 2015

Outside my window.... Chilly (in the 30's for a high) but no snow.  Most of the snow has melted from the warm temps this weekend.

I am thinking... that I had a great, great weekend with my family.

I am thankful... that my children view each other as important.  We had to plan Lucy's birthday celebration around Katie's work hours because she just started her new job and can't request time off.  Lucy would have never considered celebrating her birthday without her big sis present.

I am wearing... my sparkly sweater again.  I must need the sparkles to handle a Monday morning.

I am creating... nothing at the moment, but do have some unfinished projects.  My mind has been exhausted lately and I am just chilling and puttering around.

I am praying... for a family decision that could make a huge difference in our lives.  I see so many pro's and am trying to decide if the con's, though few, are too big to tackle right now.  I am also praying for a family member that has my heart heavy right now.  I love him so much and he is making such poor decisions.

In the kitchen... I made homemade mostaccioli and Italian beef this weekend.  It was soooo yummy.  I am thinking about some potato soup for a night this week, and I am super hungry for some grilled cheese.  Only one game to work around this week and that isn't until Friday.

A few plans...Doug is working on making our garage a "man cave" so I have decided to work on making my front porch more of a "mom cave".  I am wanting to make it kind of craft/work/library area.  I won't start until Spring since it is not heated, but I am getting my ideas together.

A peek into my day.... this is my favorite part of my job, reading to children.

Friday Favorites- Pintrest

So today I am linking up and sharing some more Friday Favorites.... I decided to do a Pintrest Edition.  Hopefully all  the links work.  I am a little addicted to Pintrest to be quite honest.  I have said before, it is like getting to form and edit my own magazine :)  I love to look back through my pins and see if I feel if it actually represents me, and it does.  Feel free to check out my Pintrest link on the sidebar if your interested in learning more about the things I love!

This quote!  It is taken a number of years to get here, but I feel I am making outstanding progress!

pintrest

Everything about this outfit from the bun to the shoes (I have a similar pair from the clearance at Payless).  I will probably never grow my hair long enough for the top knot but I do like to wear my hair up a lot (usually ever 3rd day to get one more wear before washing, #dirtyhairidontcare)

pintrest

I love the colors and the retro look of this pin.  I have always wanted a gumball machine.  I love, love. love antiques and bright colors.

pintrest

I feel this way when people decide to gossip about me or my family.  We stay pretty drama free but living in a small town you eventually make the coffee talk for something. 

pintrest

This was revolutionary for me.... I love white owls.  I only have one white owl bowl and all other owls are usually painted.  I never thought of painting them white (too easy for me).  So, Goodwill here I come! 

pintrest

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend! 

Thursday Thoughts

Happy Thursday...

So what has been on my mind this week?  Child Care.  Not for my family, at least not on a daily basis.  I am now in the blessed season of all my children either in school or old enough and out of school to fill in the gaps.  In fact, a few weeks ago, Katie was able to take the three younger ones to their dental check ups and I didn't even have to take a sick day from work.  Do you think I may start building sick days? Who knows.  I do know I have learned to work while wishing I was home in bed resting because taking a sick day for me being sick is usually just not feasible because you know one of the four gals will come down with something.  The life of a working mom...

In my profession there is a huge push for Quality Child Care.  I whole heartily agree with this.  However, I feel that sometimes our moms and dads get lost in the shuffle and no longer feel like the "expert" on their own children.  This is very sad to me.  As a mother, I feel like I know my child better than anyone.  I was given this child from God because he entrusted me with them.  I believe we as parents still need to read up, maybe take a training (though not necessary) and seek guidance from experts in the field.  But when it comes down to it.  Listen to your gut instinct or the Holy Spirit (as I refer to it as).

We live in a day and age when two income families are not just a choice but many times a necessity to keep your heads above water.  When it is a choice, please determine if child care is the Best Choice.  I am a firm believer that parents are the best choice if at all possible.  I may have made some waves with some people, but with all the child care that I experience, my convictions are strong in this area.  

A Little Inspiration In The Day to Day

(I am already looking forward to some green grass and farming season to resume)

Do you ever have those people in your life that seem to be there just to drive you crazy?  Not saying I ever do... but remember....

Every individual has a place to fill in the world, and is important in some respect, whether he chooses to be so or not. ~ Nathaniel Hawthorne

What's going on around here....

 

I am joining up with The Simple Woman's Blog to bring you my weekly day book.  Link up and share yours and read the other links....


 
 

 

 

For today...February 2nd (Groundhog's Day) 6 more weeks of Winter was the prediction.

 

Outside my window....Snow.  We got enough to cover everything, but not the storm that was predicted.  I can handle this.  I will admit, snow is beautiful the first day before it gets slushy and dirty.

 

 

 

I am thinking...how nice to have the day off.  Sometimes using a vacation day to hang out around the house is worth it.

 

I am thankful and in gratitude for... an older daughter who is responsible and can run the house and the family well when left in charge for a few days.

 

I am wearing...my pajama pants and an Oklahoma Sooners hoodie, this may be what I stay in all day long :)

 

I am wondering....if raising teenagers will turn me completely grey in the next few years.

 

I am reading... I am finishing up Screens and Teens and am still reading Own Your Own Life.  After this I plan to read something non fiction for fun.

 

 

 

I am learning...that life really does go fast.  Lucy is turning 9 this week.  She is my baby....sniff sniff.

 

One of my favorite things from the week... I spent 3 1/2 days in a vehicle with my man.  We went to Texas to pick up a pool table he bought.  We had a wonderful time enjoying each other's company, eating snacks, singing to the radio, talking, going out to eat, and just reconnecting. I really loved this time we had together and he did as well.  Where to next babe? 

 

 

Thursday Thoughts.....Are you addicted to your technology?

As I have mentioned before, I am reviewing a book that is centered on Teens and technology.  As I read, I realize how much my own world has changed and come to depend on technology as well.  I was late to the game on email, social media, surfing the web, online shopping, etc but since going back to work 7 years ago, all that has changed.  I never texted and to be quite honest, I didn't even know how to cut and paste when I first went back to work.  I was so embarrassed to ask anyone, that I went home and asked my then 6th grader to show me the basics.  

As my children grew, I realized that I had to get on board or get left behind.  I got a cell phone with a keyboard because that whole scrolling through the number keys was too much for me (patience is not my gift).  I had to rely more on email for work correspondence, and then Facebook came into my world.  I was not even going to check it out but a friend of mine begged me to get online so we could stay in touch.  I LOVED connecting with long lost friends, etc.  and because I could do this even after my children went to bed, I was hooked.

Now a days I read books on a Kindle more often than not.  However, I do still like a good page turner in real print with a spine. I use Facebook to keep in touch with people, share my day, learn about theirs, be in the know, find out what is going on in town, etc.  I love Instagram because in all honesty, pictures are my favorite, even on Facebook. I am not really into Twitter except for work and news, but I am sure I will get on board if it continues to grow as it has.  

And Blogging..... I would have never thought that would end up being something I did or something I loved.  I do though!! Blogging has given me a creative outlet, some new friends, and great ideas in fashion, food, and spirituality.  I love connecting with like minded people.  

But, I do have a confession.  I am addicted to my Smartphone :(  I don't want to go anywhere without it.  I don't not want to have Internet access.  It is bad people.  I store my lists, my thoughts, etc on it.  It has become an appendage.  I don't like having an addiction.  I am praying about this right now.  How connected do I need to really be?  I will definitely not give it up, but I am going to get better at leaving it in my purse more.  I need to realize that I do not have to be accessible to the world 24/7.  I am not THAT important.  

Do you have a technology addiction?

This book has not been released yet, but boy do you need to read it when it is!!