Today our wonderful Monkey turns 5. Five years of this wonderfully unique and immeasurably precious little girl.
For any mom I think the moment your first born baby takes it's first breath is a moment that is literally unforgettable. It was for me. I remember it so clearly. And when I close my eyes and remember her tiny, warm body laying on my chest I well with tears. Oh that sweet bundle instantaneously kidnapped me, smothered me, and ground my heart into fairy dust. Oh that little baby, my Monkey, changed me and she renamed me "Mom". Precious she is, and cherished always.
Monkey is bright. Brown hair, blue eyes, spunky and giddy. She is enthusiastic. VERY. ENTHUSIASTIC. She jumps and wiggles and does the hokey-pokey whenever she has something to share. She is a joker. I foresee that in the coming years I will be the brunt of many-a-practical joke. She is proper when she wants to be and detail oriented. Her memory is sharp and her use of a napkin (na-kim) is a thing to behold.
She loves eggs and toast, nuggets and dip, carrots, broccoli, pizza, meatballs, and cookies. Well, all sugar really. "Special Treats" as she refers to them. She can woof down a piece of cake or cookie or pie before I can put the spatula down and walk to my seat.
Monkey loves Pipsqueak. I mean, LO-HUVES her. They are best friends and though they have their disagreements, they LOVE like sisters too. She takes care of her little sister and looks after her. She tells her what to do too. She loves to tell Pip what to say when they're playing pretend. It's rather funny. She sings Pip songs before naps or bedtime. She is content to have one sister since she is the best sister. (Love this)
As any mother can attest the list I could write on my child seems endless. I'm so grateful to be her mom, to have the opportunity to nurture, mold, prune, and love on this little person. I'm still finding it hard to believe she's reached this milestone of turning 5, but she has and boy, am I glad.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Friday, November 30, 2012
Day 30: Thanksgiving Month
Finale. All morning I've been mulling over in my head what I should say today. Nothing profound, nothing witty, nothing quippy comes to mind. What remains is sincere gratitude for the hard work this month has been. It's been such an amazing exercise to sit at my desk every day and think on things to be grateful for. By the end of this post I will have listed 400 things, small and great, that I thank God for. That's 400 things that I go about my day on the usual month and don't acknowledge as a gift. Or maybe it's not that I don't acknowledge, but that I don't always acknowledge as a gift. Most days (well, everyday) I thank God for Handsome and Monkey and Pipsqueak, but I really don't give much consideration to my toothbrush nor the behemoth pack of Costco toothpaste in my closet.
Here's the question I'm thinking over: Do I continue on this blog? I sure hope so. I may not make it everyday but I want to continue to cultivate a heart of gratitude. How will this look? We'll see. I'm hoping to open up the forum here for others to write too. If you're looking for an avenue to write, please let me know! Most importantly, if you have anything wonderful you'd like to "Give Thanks" for, I will post it!
Tomorrow is December 1. The beginning of the countdown to Christmas. This is what we all are most thankful, right?! The Son of God coming to earth.....
381. Compact Mirrors
382. Make up
383. Proactive Facewash
384. Face lotion
385. Clean Bathroom!!!!
386. Monkey singing naptime songs to Pip
387. Pics of my nieces
388. Christmas Decorations out in the house
389. Pancakes for lunch
390. Orange juice mixed with cranberry juice (and a splash of zeltzer)
391. I had fish sticks in my freezer last night when I really didn't want to make anything.
392. Keeping up every day (minus one) writing on this blog
393. Monkey still enjoys cleaning up the play room with me
394. Both my girls told me (yesterday and today) that they want to be a mom, like me, when they grow up. Bestill my heart!!!! (and tears still form in my eyes)
395. Handsome going to work even when he feels sick. What a guy.
396. How Handsome always irons his own clothes... that is one thing I will ALWAYS be grateful that he does... and never once suggested that I should do it. Love him! And thank you, Army, for teaching him that chore :)
397. She's having a girl!!! (you know who you are!!!)
398. Grace to persevere through hard times
399. Friends who encourage me along the way
400. Amazing grace to make it to #400
Here's the question I'm thinking over: Do I continue on this blog? I sure hope so. I may not make it everyday but I want to continue to cultivate a heart of gratitude. How will this look? We'll see. I'm hoping to open up the forum here for others to write too. If you're looking for an avenue to write, please let me know! Most importantly, if you have anything wonderful you'd like to "Give Thanks" for, I will post it!
Tomorrow is December 1. The beginning of the countdown to Christmas. This is what we all are most thankful, right?! The Son of God coming to earth.....
381. Compact Mirrors
382. Make up
383. Proactive Facewash
384. Face lotion
385. Clean Bathroom!!!!
386. Monkey singing naptime songs to Pip
387. Pics of my nieces
388. Christmas Decorations out in the house
389. Pancakes for lunch
390. Orange juice mixed with cranberry juice (and a splash of zeltzer)
391. I had fish sticks in my freezer last night when I really didn't want to make anything.
392. Keeping up every day (minus one) writing on this blog
393. Monkey still enjoys cleaning up the play room with me
394. Both my girls told me (yesterday and today) that they want to be a mom, like me, when they grow up. Bestill my heart!!!! (and tears still form in my eyes)
395. Handsome going to work even when he feels sick. What a guy.
396. How Handsome always irons his own clothes... that is one thing I will ALWAYS be grateful that he does... and never once suggested that I should do it. Love him! And thank you, Army, for teaching him that chore :)
397. She's having a girl!!! (you know who you are!!!)
398. Grace to persevere through hard times
399. Friends who encourage me along the way
400. Amazing grace to make it to #400
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Day 29: Thanksgiving Month
We are on the Eve of the end of Thanksgiving Month. Our house has a few sick people and I can't remember when I last put real clothes on. Jammies seem to be the order of every day these days. Coffee is flowing, sleep is not sweet, and bedtime seems to be so far away everytime I look at the clock. All these things are true, but this I know to be truer. There is still more to be thankful for.
361. Breath in my lungs
362. A Heart that beats
363. Hair on my head
364. Socks on my feet
365. A Christmas Tree in my living room
366. My collection of Nutcrackers
367. A delivery of oranges and clementines last night
368. Ice cream in the freezer
369. A new trampoline for the girls.
370. Classical Music Radio (with the now occasional Christmas song)
371. Creativity
372. Sending and receiving pictures
373. Leftover Soup
374. Books on the shelves
375. Lots and lots of warm scarves
376. Lots of warm hats
377. Plug in speakers
378. Yummy Seltzer Water
379. The funny things my girls say
380. My flat iron.... I wish i had one in high school... I needed one then!
361. Breath in my lungs
362. A Heart that beats
363. Hair on my head
364. Socks on my feet
365. A Christmas Tree in my living room
366. My collection of Nutcrackers
367. A delivery of oranges and clementines last night
368. Ice cream in the freezer
369. A new trampoline for the girls.
370. Classical Music Radio (with the now occasional Christmas song)
371. Creativity
372. Sending and receiving pictures
373. Leftover Soup
374. Books on the shelves
375. Lots and lots of warm scarves
376. Lots of warm hats
377. Plug in speakers
378. Yummy Seltzer Water
379. The funny things my girls say
380. My flat iron.... I wish i had one in high school... I needed one then!
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Day 28: Thanksgiving Month
"It's the little things", right? That's what "they" say.
So here's what I'm sayin'. Check out all these little things that I'm grateful for today.
341. Forks, Knives, Spoons
342. Napkins
343. Coushions on chairs
344. Different kinds of hairbrushes. Some round, some square, some oval...
345. Ready Made coffee creamer
346. Kitchen gadgets. Can you believe all the specialized kitchen gadgets we have out there? Can you imagine a pioneer woman coming into your kitchen and seeing a can opener or an electric stand mixer? Woa. We have so much to be grateful for.
347. Tissues
348. Tape
349. Carpet
350. Space heaters
351. Humidifiers
352. Multiple Bibles all over the house.
353. Bowl of hot soup
354. Hand lotion
355. Volume control
356. Redbox
357. Hot Tea
358. Juice (in the fridge, no need to squeeze fruit myself)
359. Monkey's paintings
360. Pip's belly laugh.
So here's what I'm sayin'. Check out all these little things that I'm grateful for today.
341. Forks, Knives, Spoons
342. Napkins
343. Coushions on chairs
344. Different kinds of hairbrushes. Some round, some square, some oval...
345. Ready Made coffee creamer
346. Kitchen gadgets. Can you believe all the specialized kitchen gadgets we have out there? Can you imagine a pioneer woman coming into your kitchen and seeing a can opener or an electric stand mixer? Woa. We have so much to be grateful for.
347. Tissues
348. Tape
349. Carpet
350. Space heaters
351. Humidifiers
352. Multiple Bibles all over the house.
353. Bowl of hot soup
354. Hand lotion
355. Volume control
356. Redbox
357. Hot Tea
358. Juice (in the fridge, no need to squeeze fruit myself)
359. Monkey's paintings
360. Pip's belly laugh.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Day 27: Thanksgiving Month
330. Kids with mostly happy hearts this morning
331. My dear friend who understands when I need to cancel our time together
332. Oatmeal for breakfast... with whipped cream on top!!
333. Snow prediction this afternoon
334. Pipsqueak's perseverance through this cold. Nary a complaint this morning even as the cold is turning into a cough. She's still playing... love this kid!
335. A new book on my ipad
336. Handsome's continuous generous service. Heading to the store for Milk this morning (BEFORE WORK) so that I didn't have to go out with the sick girlie. He's just the B.E.S.T. For realz!
337. I'm almost done the laundry this week... I see the finish line!
338. "Every morning that breaks there are mercies anew. Every breath that I take is Your faithfulness proved..."
339. Sourdough Bread rising on my counter
340. Video chat with my mom yesterday... getting a tour of the new house!
331. My dear friend who understands when I need to cancel our time together
332. Oatmeal for breakfast... with whipped cream on top!!
333. Snow prediction this afternoon
334. Pipsqueak's perseverance through this cold. Nary a complaint this morning even as the cold is turning into a cough. She's still playing... love this kid!
335. A new book on my ipad
336. Handsome's continuous generous service. Heading to the store for Milk this morning (BEFORE WORK) so that I didn't have to go out with the sick girlie. He's just the B.E.S.T. For realz!
337. I'm almost done the laundry this week... I see the finish line!
338. "Every morning that breaks there are mercies anew. Every breath that I take is Your faithfulness proved..."
339. Sourdough Bread rising on my counter
340. Video chat with my mom yesterday... getting a tour of the new house!
Monday, November 26, 2012
Day 26: Thanksgiving Month
Happy "Slow Internet" Day... otherwise known as Cyber Monday. On a day like today when we are all looking for the best deals and more things, it's good for me to remind myself of what I already have and all I have to be thankful for.
I spent a wonderful time with my extended family yesterday. People, this is what I'm thankful for. The laughs, the comradery, the sense of belonging, the deep understanding that when you are alone you are not alone at all. Blood can indeed be thicker than water and love really is all you need. Well, love and a table full of food. And I guess you need water too. So love, food, and water is all you need.
321. Pipsqueak slept all night long
322. Pip even looks 75% better this morning than she did when she begged to go to bed last night (at 6:15pm)
323. Handsome's "work at home" day is today!!
324. caution: this may not be something I'm thankful for right now, but I'm saying it anyway. Saying it is half the battle, right? Ok..... A sink and counter and dishwasher full of dirty dishes. There, I said it. I am grateful becauuuuuuse........ Life without dishes would be hard and I would be miserable. Dishes are a gift!! Pretty dishes are a gift. Dishes that are my own are a gift. I'm so grateful that I get to own dishes and feed my family on them. See, I honestly feel better and more thankful already!! YEHAW.
325. Monk and Pip working together, "as a team", this morning to let the dog out. So sweet.
326. More coffee to fill my cup when it's empty
327. I'm so thankful that my heart is continuing to grow in hope.
328. A week with minimal appointments.
329. Wegmans :) :)
330. Costco :)
Now... one more cup of coffee then it's off to clean that kitchen. And probably bake a loaf of bread... and do some laundry... and some dusting. Oh yes dusting.... and if I can fit it all in, maybe pull out some Christmas decorations!
I spent a wonderful time with my extended family yesterday. People, this is what I'm thankful for. The laughs, the comradery, the sense of belonging, the deep understanding that when you are alone you are not alone at all. Blood can indeed be thicker than water and love really is all you need. Well, love and a table full of food. And I guess you need water too. So love, food, and water is all you need.
321. Pipsqueak slept all night long
322. Pip even looks 75% better this morning than she did when she begged to go to bed last night (at 6:15pm)
323. Handsome's "work at home" day is today!!
324. caution: this may not be something I'm thankful for right now, but I'm saying it anyway. Saying it is half the battle, right? Ok..... A sink and counter and dishwasher full of dirty dishes. There, I said it. I am grateful becauuuuuuse........ Life without dishes would be hard and I would be miserable. Dishes are a gift!! Pretty dishes are a gift. Dishes that are my own are a gift. I'm so grateful that I get to own dishes and feed my family on them. See, I honestly feel better and more thankful already!! YEHAW.
325. Monk and Pip working together, "as a team", this morning to let the dog out. So sweet.
326. More coffee to fill my cup when it's empty
327. I'm so thankful that my heart is continuing to grow in hope.
328. A week with minimal appointments.
329. Wegmans :) :)
330. Costco :)
Now... one more cup of coffee then it's off to clean that kitchen. And probably bake a loaf of bread... and do some laundry... and some dusting. Oh yes dusting.... and if I can fit it all in, maybe pull out some Christmas decorations!
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Day 25: Thanksgiving Month
I'm sad I missed yesterday. However, I have no guilt as I was out and about with my dear family and dear friends for a day of fun and chopping down our Christmas tree. There was not a moment to be had at my computer. That about sums up my list of thanks from yesterday. We'll call yesterday #311.
Today I'm able to sit at my computer again. Not for long I think as my littlest Pipsqueak is for sure sick this morning. By the end of our day yesterday I could tell she was coming down with something. What clued me in could've been the extreme emotions, or the fact that she fell asleep in the car and was virtually un-wakeable. It also is in part due to her nose running and constant sneezing. After a long and tiresome night of waking up multiple times, I'm distracted from what I could be thankful for. So here I go, redirecting my gaze away from the grey clouds and on to the silver lining.
312. Pipsqueak will get better
313. God designed our bodies to heal themselves. So grateful!
314. Our tree looks beautiful in our living room
315. Today I get to see my brother, Sister (in law), nieces, cousins, aunts and uncles. Wahoo!
315. Veggie Tales
316. New shows on tv that are so good that I get hooked.
317. Music - the kind that plays in the background and becomes a soundtrack to your life
318. Green Tea
319. Boxes of cereal sitting in the cabinet.
320. Strength for today.
Today I'm able to sit at my computer again. Not for long I think as my littlest Pipsqueak is for sure sick this morning. By the end of our day yesterday I could tell she was coming down with something. What clued me in could've been the extreme emotions, or the fact that she fell asleep in the car and was virtually un-wakeable. It also is in part due to her nose running and constant sneezing. After a long and tiresome night of waking up multiple times, I'm distracted from what I could be thankful for. So here I go, redirecting my gaze away from the grey clouds and on to the silver lining.
312. Pipsqueak will get better
313. God designed our bodies to heal themselves. So grateful!
314. Our tree looks beautiful in our living room
315. Today I get to see my brother, Sister (in law), nieces, cousins, aunts and uncles. Wahoo!
315. Veggie Tales
316. New shows on tv that are so good that I get hooked.
317. Music - the kind that plays in the background and becomes a soundtrack to your life
318. Green Tea
319. Boxes of cereal sitting in the cabinet.
320. Strength for today.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Day 23: Thanksgiving Month
The day after Thanksgiving. For some reason I'm finding it hard to understand the psychology of today. The day after the "Day of Thanks" and it feels as if I'm all out of ideas for this list. It's as if all the hype and gratitude culminated in last night's fare and today is quiet, still, and small. It doesn't help that I'm dealing with the carb overload from last nights dinner and minimal sleep. Woe is me, right? Too much food. Not enough time in my warm soft bed. I'm laughing right now because I can so easily turn what is a blessing into something to complain about.
301. Family Dinner last night
302. Leftover turkey to take home
303. Turkey sandwich for lunch!!
304. Handsome's new glasses
305. Handsome bringing me home some Starbucks!!
306. Black Friday shopping for an hour alone
307. Beautiful weather today
308. Special "I'm sorry" email from someone
309. Warm Slippers
310. Pizza/Movie/Family night with Handsome, Monkey, and Pipsqueak. So blessed!
301. Family Dinner last night
302. Leftover turkey to take home
303. Turkey sandwich for lunch!!
304. Handsome's new glasses
305. Handsome bringing me home some Starbucks!!
306. Black Friday shopping for an hour alone
307. Beautiful weather today
308. Special "I'm sorry" email from someone
309. Warm Slippers
310. Pizza/Movie/Family night with Handsome, Monkey, and Pipsqueak. So blessed!
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Day 22: Thanksgiving Month
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!
Today I'm sticking with the big ones. Those things that are foundations. Solid, always there, large categories.
291. I'm thankful that I am found in Christ. That all my badness, all my selfishness, all my wrongness, all my disobedience, all my rebellion, all my pride is covered by the blood of Jesus and The Father sees Jesus when he sees me.
292. I am hemmed in, behind and before. His hand is upon me.
293. I am thankful that I have not given up on these truths and I continue seek Him who will be found.
294. My family. The parents who raised me, the brothers who sharpened me. The Husband that loves and treasures me. My daughters that delight me.
295. My friends. The ever faithful, every available, and ever wise friends of mine. What would I do without you?
296. My In Laws. For accepting me and loving me
297. My Church. Though we have had some downs this past year, I am more grateful than ever for the way we have been trained by discipline and how we are experiencing much grace and freedom and joy in repentance!
298. My Small Group. Each one is an inspiration. Each one wise and ..... funny!
299. My home and vehicles. Of all things that I could choose to keep in life that is tangible, these two things are in the top three. So blessed to be sheltered and mobile.
300. FOOD!! I'll end on this note.
As I go off to bake dinner rolls for our feast this evening I'm thankful that we are so rich!!
Today I'm sticking with the big ones. Those things that are foundations. Solid, always there, large categories.
291. I'm thankful that I am found in Christ. That all my badness, all my selfishness, all my wrongness, all my disobedience, all my rebellion, all my pride is covered by the blood of Jesus and The Father sees Jesus when he sees me.
292. I am hemmed in, behind and before. His hand is upon me.
293. I am thankful that I have not given up on these truths and I continue seek Him who will be found.
294. My family. The parents who raised me, the brothers who sharpened me. The Husband that loves and treasures me. My daughters that delight me.
295. My friends. The ever faithful, every available, and ever wise friends of mine. What would I do without you?
296. My In Laws. For accepting me and loving me
297. My Church. Though we have had some downs this past year, I am more grateful than ever for the way we have been trained by discipline and how we are experiencing much grace and freedom and joy in repentance!
298. My Small Group. Each one is an inspiration. Each one wise and ..... funny!
299. My home and vehicles. Of all things that I could choose to keep in life that is tangible, these two things are in the top three. So blessed to be sheltered and mobile.
300. FOOD!! I'll end on this note.
As I go off to bake dinner rolls for our feast this evening I'm thankful that we are so rich!!
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Day 21: Thanksgiving Month
Tomorrow is the big day. THANSKGIVING! The day I'll be doing nothing but baking bread, putting on stretchy pants and heading to the in-laws for some T-to the- URKEY!
That's tomorrow... today I'm thinking of more things to add to my list of thanks.
281. My desk is clean
282. Only 2 loads of laundry to fold and put away today! WAHOO!
283. Friends who bless friends when they are in need
284. Receiving my grandma's old hat boxes and finding there are two hats still in them... like vintage pill hats with net veils. LOVE!
285. I'm thankful my Mamaw taught me how to crochet when I was a little girl. I love making things!
286. Handsome going to the store for me on his way home from work. This is no small thing!!! Even though he doesn't understand why it was such a big deal for me, it really is a big deal. I did NOT want to go!
287. I was thinking this morning that the house isn't "fully stocked". Then I realized that I have more than enough to last until after all the holiday festivities. What an overabundance of grace! The culture I live in is all about food and stocking up on food for the holidays.... but we have what we need and then some. Thank You, Lord!
288. Lip Balm
289. Hand Lotion (so much washing of the hands + cold weather = chapped hands!)
290. Pipsqueak coming out of her room this morning still half asleep. Before she even hugs me and says "good morning" she barely gets the words out, "Mom, can you help me put on my Cindalella dwess?"
That's tomorrow... today I'm thinking of more things to add to my list of thanks.
281. My desk is clean
282. Only 2 loads of laundry to fold and put away today! WAHOO!
283. Friends who bless friends when they are in need
284. Receiving my grandma's old hat boxes and finding there are two hats still in them... like vintage pill hats with net veils. LOVE!
285. I'm thankful my Mamaw taught me how to crochet when I was a little girl. I love making things!
286. Handsome going to the store for me on his way home from work. This is no small thing!!! Even though he doesn't understand why it was such a big deal for me, it really is a big deal. I did NOT want to go!
287. I was thinking this morning that the house isn't "fully stocked". Then I realized that I have more than enough to last until after all the holiday festivities. What an overabundance of grace! The culture I live in is all about food and stocking up on food for the holidays.... but we have what we need and then some. Thank You, Lord!
288. Lip Balm
289. Hand Lotion (so much washing of the hands + cold weather = chapped hands!)
290. Pipsqueak coming out of her room this morning still half asleep. Before she even hugs me and says "good morning" she barely gets the words out, "Mom, can you help me put on my Cindalella dwess?"
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Day 20: Thanksgiving Month
276. Handsome gave me his old ipod thingy-ma-bob. Now I can listen to my ipod on my kitchen/living room area - through my radio. that's pretty sweet!!
277. "No Electronics or Battery Powered Games" day with the girls. All sorts of dresses, dancing, imagination going over here.
278. Making my first loaf of bread using my new sourdough starter. It's exciting. I'm really, really trying to not get my hopes up. It might fail... but, that's ok, I can just try again, right? right.
279. Texts from my parents this morning.... sigh.
280. My family... parents and bros. word!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Day 19: Thanksgiving Month
Right now, I'm living and holding on to "The Lord is my shepherd" for a bit. "I shall not be in want". Various versions say things like "I lack no good thing" or "I lack nothing". The Message says "I don't need a thing."
pause. repeat. meditate.
I find so much peace, comfort, and contentment knowing that all I must do is graze like a sheep in the pasture that my shepherd puts me in. Wherever that pasture may be, I eat. Yes, sometimes I poop too... and usually it's not pretty when I have a poopy attitude. But mostly I eat. I should not worry about a thing for my shepherd keeps watch. He plans my ways, He guards my steps, and when I'm dirty he washes me. Sometimes I'm so dirty or there's a knot so big that he must sheer me too. But even the sheering is for my good. Sometimes that discarded wool can be used for good too!!
266. Continued grace to keep up with this exercise
267. Though my heart is so prone to complain and wonder and focus on "bad", I'm not thrown out of the fold.
268. Pumpkin Flax Seed Granola for breakfast
269. A Text from my aunt (xoxo)
270. Waking up to find that my 4th attempt at sourdough starter seems to be viable. I'm still holding out hope that, yes, those bubbles and foam, and sour yeasty smell might actually mean I DID IT!! (crosses fingers)
271. It's haircut day!!
272. Leftover soup for lunch today. One of my best homemade soups yet... God is good!
273. Handsome... can I really only have his name on here once? nope, he's one of God's richest blessings on me and I choose to continually remember that. Stay tuned! You'll see his name on here a few more times before I'm through.
274. Folding half of the mountain of clothes last night
275. Pinterest
pause. repeat. meditate.
I find so much peace, comfort, and contentment knowing that all I must do is graze like a sheep in the pasture that my shepherd puts me in. Wherever that pasture may be, I eat. Yes, sometimes I poop too... and usually it's not pretty when I have a poopy attitude. But mostly I eat. I should not worry about a thing for my shepherd keeps watch. He plans my ways, He guards my steps, and when I'm dirty he washes me. Sometimes I'm so dirty or there's a knot so big that he must sheer me too. But even the sheering is for my good. Sometimes that discarded wool can be used for good too!!
266. Continued grace to keep up with this exercise
267. Though my heart is so prone to complain and wonder and focus on "bad", I'm not thrown out of the fold.
268. Pumpkin Flax Seed Granola for breakfast
269. A Text from my aunt (xoxo)
270. Waking up to find that my 4th attempt at sourdough starter seems to be viable. I'm still holding out hope that, yes, those bubbles and foam, and sour yeasty smell might actually mean I DID IT!! (crosses fingers)
271. It's haircut day!!
272. Leftover soup for lunch today. One of my best homemade soups yet... God is good!
273. Handsome... can I really only have his name on here once? nope, he's one of God's richest blessings on me and I choose to continually remember that. Stay tuned! You'll see his name on here a few more times before I'm through.
274. Folding half of the mountain of clothes last night
275. Pinterest
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Day 18: Thanksgiving Month
It's a tired, two cups of coffee, moving slowly, no brain function type of morning. Fingers are typing the wrong words, or should I say "wrods", and ................... there are significant absences in thought processes mid sentence........................ Asking God to help me find all my blessings this morning.
246. I'm thankful that I'm not a farmer today. No need to get up with the sun and milk the cows or (cough, cough-goats).
247. No plans on the calendar today
248. Handsome being home... I just love it when he's home!
249. Monkey's drawing this morning. Her skills are improving
250. I'm thankful that I know the Lord will help me to fold this pile of laundry that's been sitting in my office for a few days now... it's big. Like lose a child in it big.... sigh... I know He will help me
251. Girl-Time out with a dear friend yesterday... Movie, dinner, drinks, shopping. It was so lovely!! I really needed that time
261. Living Social coupons/deals. For realz!
262. ...........(thinking)..................................The little electronic games my girls play with
263. This exercise each morning. It's real sweaty work some mornings to think through my blessings, but it's necessary for my soul and heart
264. Target's $1 section
265. A new box of herbal tea!
246. I'm thankful that I'm not a farmer today. No need to get up with the sun and milk the cows or (cough, cough-goats).
247. No plans on the calendar today
248. Handsome being home... I just love it when he's home!
249. Monkey's drawing this morning. Her skills are improving
250. I'm thankful that I know the Lord will help me to fold this pile of laundry that's been sitting in my office for a few days now... it's big. Like lose a child in it big.... sigh... I know He will help me
251. Girl-Time out with a dear friend yesterday... Movie, dinner, drinks, shopping. It was so lovely!! I really needed that time
261. Living Social coupons/deals. For realz!
262. ...........(thinking)..................................The little electronic games my girls play with
263. This exercise each morning. It's real sweaty work some mornings to think through my blessings, but it's necessary for my soul and heart
264. Target's $1 section
265. A new box of herbal tea!
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Day 17: Thanksgiving Month
235. Friends on Facebook who are listing what they're thankful for
236. The way Pipsqueak says "u-nuver-wan" instead of "another one" AHH! So cute!!
237. Monkey who likes to help out around the house.
238. When I wake up, I can tell the relative time by whether I smell coffee in the air... love a timer on the machine and LOVE the smell of coffee luring me out of my comfy bed.
240. Emails from family
241. Handsome sleeping in
242. Going out this afternoon for some resetting time... dinner, drinks, movie!
243. Slow, no plans mornings
244. No condemnation over a messy house
245. Strength to push through "how I feel" and slowly pick up said messy house.
236. The way Pipsqueak says "u-nuver-wan" instead of "another one" AHH! So cute!!
237. Monkey who likes to help out around the house.
238. When I wake up, I can tell the relative time by whether I smell coffee in the air... love a timer on the machine and LOVE the smell of coffee luring me out of my comfy bed.
240. Emails from family
241. Handsome sleeping in
242. Going out this afternoon for some resetting time... dinner, drinks, movie!
243. Slow, no plans mornings
244. No condemnation over a messy house
245. Strength to push through "how I feel" and slowly pick up said messy house.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Day 16: Thanksgiving Month
Last night I was working on my assignment for my small group ladies meeting. "Write 10 things your grateful for." Sure, I can use one of my already listed 210 things that way I won't run out of things to write for today's post. .....
....Oops, I guess I'm still not getting the point of this exercise. There is still MORE to be thankful for. It reminded me of when I was a kid and I was proud of myself for counting to 100. (by the way, Monkey can count to 100 now and it is a big accomplishment!). Then I realized that numbers don't stop at 100. All you need to do is add a one and you can keep going. One hundred one, one hundred two, one hundred three, and so on. The moment you think you've counted as far as you can count you can always, always add a one and keep going. One trillion billion gazillion .... and one. So it is with God and his blessings. Infinite. Generous. Kind..... and one.....
(begin last nights list)
211. Texts from friends
212. Monkey's happy helping
213. Roasted chicken drippings
214. Christmas cards coming in teh mail
215. Beer, wine, vodka martinis
216. Jillian Michaels who kicks my butt
217. Handsome's generosity
218. Pipsqueak's love for her mommy
219. Mugs. So much variety. Pretty, witty, ugly, and plain. Happy, sappy, funny or vain. (I just rhymed)
220. Socks without holes
(end last night's list)
(begin today's list)
221. The ladies in my small group
222. Prayer
223. Using my words to encourage someone
224. Laughing
225. Understanding between friends
226. A dear lady giving me Leapfrog videos for the kids
227. Cramps, bloat, and the blehs...... means my body is working.... it's a stretch to be grateful for this one
228. Sleeping in to 8:15 this morning
229. Handsome getting home early so I can hit the grocery store BEFORE care group
230. It being cold enough that my groceries didn't need refridgeration other than my trunk.
231. Having a new carton of Almond Milk to surprise Monkey with this morning. Oh the cheers of joy!!
232. The girls enjoying playing pretend with the new honey bear bottle and using two green aloe bottles as their pretend fish tanks. I LOVE their imaginations and they're friendship!
233. Bread in the bread machine!
235. Turkey sandwiches for lunch later. Monkey's been asking for one for almost a week now and as of my trip last night I can finally give her one .... on homemade bread!! Life is good!!
....Oops, I guess I'm still not getting the point of this exercise. There is still MORE to be thankful for. It reminded me of when I was a kid and I was proud of myself for counting to 100. (by the way, Monkey can count to 100 now and it is a big accomplishment!). Then I realized that numbers don't stop at 100. All you need to do is add a one and you can keep going. One hundred one, one hundred two, one hundred three, and so on. The moment you think you've counted as far as you can count you can always, always add a one and keep going. One trillion billion gazillion .... and one. So it is with God and his blessings. Infinite. Generous. Kind..... and one.....
(begin last nights list)
211. Texts from friends
212. Monkey's happy helping
213. Roasted chicken drippings
214. Christmas cards coming in teh mail
215. Beer, wine, vodka martinis
216. Jillian Michaels who kicks my butt
217. Handsome's generosity
218. Pipsqueak's love for her mommy
219. Mugs. So much variety. Pretty, witty, ugly, and plain. Happy, sappy, funny or vain. (I just rhymed)
220. Socks without holes
(end last night's list)
(begin today's list)
221. The ladies in my small group
222. Prayer
223. Using my words to encourage someone
224. Laughing
225. Understanding between friends
226. A dear lady giving me Leapfrog videos for the kids
227. Cramps, bloat, and the blehs...... means my body is working.... it's a stretch to be grateful for this one
228. Sleeping in to 8:15 this morning
229. Handsome getting home early so I can hit the grocery store BEFORE care group
230. It being cold enough that my groceries didn't need refridgeration other than my trunk.
231. Having a new carton of Almond Milk to surprise Monkey with this morning. Oh the cheers of joy!!
232. The girls enjoying playing pretend with the new honey bear bottle and using two green aloe bottles as their pretend fish tanks. I LOVE their imaginations and they're friendship!
233. Bread in the bread machine!
235. Turkey sandwiches for lunch later. Monkey's been asking for one for almost a week now and as of my trip last night I can finally give her one .... on homemade bread!! Life is good!!
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Day 15: Thanksgiving Month
I'm in the two-hundreds! Amazing... I can't think of a time when I've ever written a list over ONE hundred. I guess it goes to show that I have far more to be thankful for than I do to complain over.
201. New coffee from Handsome. Nothing like a thoughtful "traveling present"!
202. Sourdough Starter. I'm honestly on my 4th attempt to make sourdough starter. It's been frustrating before, but now I'm grateful because it's teaching me patience. And maybe it won't work out this time either, but if so, that will be an opportunity for me to find peace in disappointment!
203. My ipod.
204. Erasers (correcting mistakes, wahoo!!)
205. Balloons
206. Hair Clips
207. White out
208. "Ask, and it shall be given you"
209. Pencil Sharpeners
210. Jokes on Facebook that make me laugh out loud!
201. New coffee from Handsome. Nothing like a thoughtful "traveling present"!
202. Sourdough Starter. I'm honestly on my 4th attempt to make sourdough starter. It's been frustrating before, but now I'm grateful because it's teaching me patience. And maybe it won't work out this time either, but if so, that will be an opportunity for me to find peace in disappointment!
203. My ipod.
204. Erasers (correcting mistakes, wahoo!!)
205. Balloons
206. Hair Clips
207. White out
208. "Ask, and it shall be given you"
209. Pencil Sharpeners
210. Jokes on Facebook that make me laugh out loud!
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Day 14: Thanksgiving Month
Handsome got home last night from a 4.5 day trip away, and, oh my, I am so happy to see him!! His safe return is what I'm thankful for most, but of course, there's still more to be thankful for.
191. Brakes on our vehicles
192. Technology
193. Ice Cream
194. Pipsqueak who generously shares her ice cream with sprinkles!!
195. Those rare but wonderful moments when Monkey wants to snuggle me or gets excited to hold my hand when we're out.
196. The play room in the basement!!
197. Handsome taking a day off work to spend time with us
198. Being together with the crew I love the most in this world (handsome, monk and pip)
199. Green Tea
200. Moments of quiet and content in our home
191. Brakes on our vehicles
192. Technology
193. Ice Cream
194. Pipsqueak who generously shares her ice cream with sprinkles!!
195. Those rare but wonderful moments when Monkey wants to snuggle me or gets excited to hold my hand when we're out.
196. The play room in the basement!!
197. Handsome taking a day off work to spend time with us
198. Being together with the crew I love the most in this world (handsome, monk and pip)
199. Green Tea
200. Moments of quiet and content in our home
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Day 13: Thanksgiving Month
At first glance it seems I am just listing a bunch of things. Random items thrown together on a list can look very trite. But if you go deeper on each item, assign value to them, imagine life without them, or realize that some of them are not items that have been around since the dawn of time, you start to realize they are all reasons for thankfulness.
171. Sweatpants
172. The weather yesterday!! 65-70 degrees, wonderfully windy, so refreshing!
173. Simple breakfast for dinner
174. Airplanes. Fast travel from far off places.
175. Anticipation of a wonderful thing
176. Toothbrushes
177. Toothpaste
178. Sunglasses
179. Homemade bread
180. The outfits that Monkey puts together when she decides to get dressed
181. Pipsqueak who never wears clothes.... only dress up dresses.
182. Exercising with the girls outside
183. I can do 3. THREE. TRES!!!! normal push ups. Like from your feet not your knees! That's pretty significant for me... the person who could barely hold the plank position for more than 2 seconds.
184. Scissors
185. Crayons
186. Books
187. Our imaginations
188. Vitamin supplements
189. Chewing gum
190. Light bulbs
171. Sweatpants
172. The weather yesterday!! 65-70 degrees, wonderfully windy, so refreshing!
173. Simple breakfast for dinner
174. Airplanes. Fast travel from far off places.
175. Anticipation of a wonderful thing
176. Toothbrushes
177. Toothpaste
178. Sunglasses
179. Homemade bread
180. The outfits that Monkey puts together when she decides to get dressed
181. Pipsqueak who never wears clothes.... only dress up dresses.
182. Exercising with the girls outside
183. I can do 3. THREE. TRES!!!! normal push ups. Like from your feet not your knees! That's pretty significant for me... the person who could barely hold the plank position for more than 2 seconds.
184. Scissors
185. Crayons
186. Books
187. Our imaginations
188. Vitamin supplements
189. Chewing gum
190. Light bulbs
Monday, November 12, 2012
Day 12: Thanksgiving Month
146. Safety while sleeping
147. Dishwashers
148. Skype
149. Eggs, toast and cheese!
150. Waterpressure
151. Clean water to drink
152. Tylenol
153. Tweezers
154. Carpet
155. Locks on doors
156. The ability to read
157. Kids TV
158. Salt
159. Garlic!!!!!!!
160. Chicken
161. Cheese
162. Grocery Stores
163. Jammies
164. Monkey's blue eyes
165. Pipsqueak's Hazel/green eyes
166. Handsome's kind green eyes
167. Pipsqueak speaking ever-so-kindly to her sister, "no fankyu, you kin havit."
168. uhhh.... coffee again
169. Beautiful weather!!
170. Sneakers
147. Dishwashers
148. Skype
149. Eggs, toast and cheese!
150. Waterpressure
151. Clean water to drink
152. Tylenol
153. Tweezers
154. Carpet
155. Locks on doors
156. The ability to read
157. Kids TV
158. Salt
159. Garlic!!!!!!!
160. Chicken
161. Cheese
162. Grocery Stores
163. Jammies
164. Monkey's blue eyes
165. Pipsqueak's Hazel/green eyes
166. Handsome's kind green eyes
167. Pipsqueak speaking ever-so-kindly to her sister, "no fankyu, you kin havit."
168. uhhh.... coffee again
169. Beautiful weather!!
170. Sneakers
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Day 11: Thanksgiving Month
Distractions are all around me today: How I feel, my to-do list, my kids and the way they are reacting to each other, what I don't want to do...
Nevertheless... I will count my blessings
126. Veterans
127. The Internet and all the helpful information so readily available
128. Pancake mix (from a box!). Such a wonderful convenience
129. Video monitors.
130. Sound Machines
131. Stuffed animals
132. The "kids bathroom" toilet fixing itself so that I didn't have to plunge
133. Costco with my bro.
134. The bill being significantly less than I expected!! Wahoo!
135. Library books waiting for me to pick up anytime. Love the "hold" list!!
136. No plans for today
137. After searching forever for someone who was very special to me as a child, I've FINALLY found them on FB.... hoping we can connect.
138. My memory. It's not perfect, but it remembers things... Ever seen the movie "50 First Dates".... that would totally stink if that was me. So glad that I can remember things!
140. My cedar chest. One of my favorite hand-me-downs from my mom.
141. My new china! Another of my most favorite things given me from my mom!!
142. All my aunts and uncles. They are all just so fantastic!
143. Also, all my cousins... woa am I a blessed girl!!
144. The slipcover on my couch. It's held up pretty well all these years, and I'm grateful that I was able to buy one and keep it for so long.
145. Coconut milk in my coffee :)
Nevertheless... I will count my blessings
126. Veterans
127. The Internet and all the helpful information so readily available
128. Pancake mix (from a box!). Such a wonderful convenience
129. Video monitors.
130. Sound Machines
131. Stuffed animals
132. The "kids bathroom" toilet fixing itself so that I didn't have to plunge
133. Costco with my bro.
134. The bill being significantly less than I expected!! Wahoo!
135. Library books waiting for me to pick up anytime. Love the "hold" list!!
136. No plans for today
137. After searching forever for someone who was very special to me as a child, I've FINALLY found them on FB.... hoping we can connect.
138. My memory. It's not perfect, but it remembers things... Ever seen the movie "50 First Dates".... that would totally stink if that was me. So glad that I can remember things!
140. My cedar chest. One of my favorite hand-me-downs from my mom.
141. My new china! Another of my most favorite things given me from my mom!!
142. All my aunts and uncles. They are all just so fantastic!
143. Also, all my cousins... woa am I a blessed girl!!
144. The slipcover on my couch. It's held up pretty well all these years, and I'm grateful that I was able to buy one and keep it for so long.
145. Coconut milk in my coffee :)
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Kids Quotes
(then I laughed!)
Pipsqueak is sitting on the potty. I ask if she's done.
"No Mommy. I have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10! TWO poo-poos."
"So you're not done? you have another poo-poo?"
"Yes, I have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10! TWO poo-poos."
Day 10: Thanksgiving Month
Exercise. It's hard work! June 1 is my anniversary with Handsome. This year on our anniversary some sort of inspiration hit us and we started a health-kick. This was the year we were going to get into shape. This was the year that we would feel better, look better, be stronger, and keep up with the up-and-coming fireballs called Monkey and Pipsqueak!
It has been tough. It's a daily battle to psych myself into turning on the video. I think I sweat more in anticipation of the hard work to come than I do in the first half of the workout!
Here's the thing my sleepy brain is trying to get at. Hard work produces results! The effort put in is not wasted! I actually have muscles in my arms now. I can actually do a "normal" push up (that means not on my knees).It might just be one and half normal push-ups but it's more than zero. I can do planks like a "pro" with added jumping jacks and all sorts of other things I never dreamed I could do back when we started. I still get anxious when I anticipate working out because I know it's hard, but I also am filled with happy endorphins and satisfaction when I'm finished a horribly challenging workout.
Ok, I'm sure you can see the connection I'm trying to make here. This exercise of daily counting my blessings is producing results. I'm finding that my heart is more prone to peace. I think, maybe just a little, that my gratitude might be noticeable to my kids and husband. Who knows.... I mean, I think it's buried under a layer of fat and grumpiness so maybe a few more months....but the point is, even if it's not noticeable from the outside, I can feel it changing something in me on the inside. Like the time I flexed my "bicep" and yelled at Handsome in excitement, "Look!! I have a muscle! Do you see?" My super husband sorta chuckled and placated me with a simple, "that's great, honey." Obviously it wasn't noticeable to him... yet. But now I know he sees it (even if it's barely there... it's there!)
111. The girls going to bed smoothly last night
112. Clifford on tv and the two girls snuggled up in my big bed with me this morning
113. The dog didn't wake me up in the middle of the night needing to go pee
114. Cereal for breakfast
115. An afternoon trip planned with my bro to the wonderful land of Costco!
116. Classical music radio playing in my kitchen throughout the day
117. Baking therapy (cupcakes and bread all baked yesterday afternoon.... soothing for my mind and nose after our morning fiasco)
118. Sweet Monkey who is so excited that she's not throwing up anymore!
119. Pictures of my family over the years
120. Awesome sister-in-laws
121. Special mugs for my morning coffee
122. Dirty dishes all over the kitchen. At first it's a stretch, but if you follow it down the rabbit hole you come up with such truth! Evidence of God's abundant blessing in food.
123. "Love... It does not envy..." (1 Cor. 13:4). Learning what this truth means in my life today. Applying it to my heart, and growing in love for the one I envy today.
124. Pipsqueak who seems to always growl over everything. It's a "happy/silly" growl and not anger.
125. Birds who were the original tweeters and still the best at it.
It has been tough. It's a daily battle to psych myself into turning on the video. I think I sweat more in anticipation of the hard work to come than I do in the first half of the workout!
Here's the thing my sleepy brain is trying to get at. Hard work produces results! The effort put in is not wasted! I actually have muscles in my arms now. I can actually do a "normal" push up (that means not on my knees).It might just be one and half normal push-ups but it's more than zero. I can do planks like a "pro" with added jumping jacks and all sorts of other things I never dreamed I could do back when we started. I still get anxious when I anticipate working out because I know it's hard, but I also am filled with happy endorphins and satisfaction when I'm finished a horribly challenging workout.
Ok, I'm sure you can see the connection I'm trying to make here. This exercise of daily counting my blessings is producing results. I'm finding that my heart is more prone to peace. I think, maybe just a little, that my gratitude might be noticeable to my kids and husband. Who knows.... I mean, I think it's buried under a layer of fat and grumpiness so maybe a few more months....but the point is, even if it's not noticeable from the outside, I can feel it changing something in me on the inside. Like the time I flexed my "bicep" and yelled at Handsome in excitement, "Look!! I have a muscle! Do you see?" My super husband sorta chuckled and placated me with a simple, "that's great, honey." Obviously it wasn't noticeable to him... yet. But now I know he sees it (even if it's barely there... it's there!)
111. The girls going to bed smoothly last night
112. Clifford on tv and the two girls snuggled up in my big bed with me this morning
113. The dog didn't wake me up in the middle of the night needing to go pee
114. Cereal for breakfast
115. An afternoon trip planned with my bro to the wonderful land of Costco!
116. Classical music radio playing in my kitchen throughout the day
117. Baking therapy (cupcakes and bread all baked yesterday afternoon.... soothing for my mind and nose after our morning fiasco)
118. Sweet Monkey who is so excited that she's not throwing up anymore!
119. Pictures of my family over the years
120. Awesome sister-in-laws
121. Special mugs for my morning coffee
122. Dirty dishes all over the kitchen. At first it's a stretch, but if you follow it down the rabbit hole you come up with such truth! Evidence of God's abundant blessing in food.
123. "Love... It does not envy..." (1 Cor. 13:4). Learning what this truth means in my life today. Applying it to my heart, and growing in love for the one I envy today.
124. Pipsqueak who seems to always growl over everything. It's a "happy/silly" growl and not anger.
125. Birds who were the original tweeters and still the best at it.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Day 9: Thanksgiving Month
I'm low on time today. What a morning I've had! It was wake up and rush, rush, rush. Then adjust plans, then adjust some more. Then during an hour drive home poor Monkey was projectile vomitting in her car seat. This was extremely heart breaking to watch in the rearview mirror as I tried to keep us safe on the highway. I was so helpless to help and helpless to contain said vomit. Little Pipsqueak was so upset to see her sister sick and was bawling her little eyes out... poor girls! Not only was it a sad sight but the smell was outragious! I was trying my best to not throw up, though I did heave a few times. Pipsqueak even heaved a few times. OH man... what a morning.
However, I did get a crash course in how to take the car seat out and pull it all apart. Chunks, stench, moisture in ever nook and cranny. Being a mom means you do it even if you really, really don't want to. Sacrifice, folks, at it's finest! Monkey, chunky clothes, car seat padding are all bathed and happy again.
So...how did I do? God kept my heart in perfect peace today as this unfolded. What a glorious and totally undeserved blessing! I can guarantee without his help I may have cried myself from both heartbreak and self pity.
101. Safety in the car this morning
102. Throw up only on the carseat and not all over everything else
103. Monkey's calm and peaceful attitude while we finished our ride home
104. Pipsqueak's extraordinary love for her sister
105. Sunshine today and mild cold - fresh cool air to finish the drive out
106. Homemade chicken broth in my fridge. I had planned to cook with it last night but changed plans last minute, and because of that I had healthy broth to make soup for lunch to sooth my little girls.
107. Increased faith
108. Psalm 23 which is comforting to my soul
109. Washing machines who do all the dirty work (pun intended)!
110. Leftover coffee that I can pour over ice and enjoy. God knew and prepared for me this afternoon.
However, I did get a crash course in how to take the car seat out and pull it all apart. Chunks, stench, moisture in ever nook and cranny. Being a mom means you do it even if you really, really don't want to. Sacrifice, folks, at it's finest! Monkey, chunky clothes, car seat padding are all bathed and happy again.
So...how did I do? God kept my heart in perfect peace today as this unfolded. What a glorious and totally undeserved blessing! I can guarantee without his help I may have cried myself from both heartbreak and self pity.
101. Safety in the car this morning
102. Throw up only on the carseat and not all over everything else
103. Monkey's calm and peaceful attitude while we finished our ride home
104. Pipsqueak's extraordinary love for her sister
105. Sunshine today and mild cold - fresh cool air to finish the drive out
106. Homemade chicken broth in my fridge. I had planned to cook with it last night but changed plans last minute, and because of that I had healthy broth to make soup for lunch to sooth my little girls.
107. Increased faith
108. Psalm 23 which is comforting to my soul
109. Washing machines who do all the dirty work (pun intended)!
110. Leftover coffee that I can pour over ice and enjoy. God knew and prepared for me this afternoon.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Day 8: Thanksgiving Month
I sat down at my computer with my coffee this morning and my mind blanked out. Fingers just sat still on the keys and eyes stared at the screen. Can I really not think of something to be grateful for today?? Woa, that's sad. I can think of the same things I've already thought of, and that's not a bad thing. It's always good to recount, and remember, all those things that are blessings. Big blessings. But I want to see more than the usual, big things. I want to be grateful for all things, in all times. So, i'm going to get creative and start to look at EVERYTHING and remember that I have SO MUCH to be thankful for.
91. An electric iron. So glad I don't have to build a fire and use a cast iron hunk of metal to press my clothes
92. DVR. So really, I remember when I had to record shows with a VHS tape. What a drag!
93. Fast Forward Button. I was watching some shows that have been sitting on my DVR last night. A surge of anger hit me as another political commercial came on. Gosh, don't they know that election is over!! Enough already!! ...... ....... oh. woops. This is recorded. ..... I can fast forward .....
94. Handsome taking time before work to read books with the kids and then eating with us.
95. Handsome taking the trash out!
96. The other day I was busy caring for Pipsqueak and Monkey decided to empty the entire bottom rack of the dishwasher all by herself. No help. Wow! I was and continue to be so blessed by that gesture. Love her!
97. Exercise equipment in my home.
98. Wine. It's so tastey!
99. Furniture. Let me clarify. I have a vision for what my house can look like. I know the furniture I want, but it is not time for us to buy it. I have been blessed with mismatched pieces. It is really a HUGE blessing! I have what I need, even if it's not what I prefer. God is so good to me. I am content!
100. A woman's touch. So, I was thinking that it is so neat that the Lord has given me a desire to create a homey-home. Even though I don't have my "dream furniture" I am content to use what I have and somehow (at least in my mind) I'm able to make it work!
Just think, I hit 100 things in 8 days. I know without a doubt that I could've listed more things each day, but I am a finite person, with mommy brain.
Another good day of exercising my gratitude. In the short time it took me to type these things out I can feel a marked difference in my outlook for today. I encourage you to take some time to type out a few things too!
91. An electric iron. So glad I don't have to build a fire and use a cast iron hunk of metal to press my clothes
92. DVR. So really, I remember when I had to record shows with a VHS tape. What a drag!
93. Fast Forward Button. I was watching some shows that have been sitting on my DVR last night. A surge of anger hit me as another political commercial came on. Gosh, don't they know that election is over!! Enough already!! ...... ....... oh. woops. This is recorded. ..... I can fast forward .....
94. Handsome taking time before work to read books with the kids and then eating with us.
95. Handsome taking the trash out!
96. The other day I was busy caring for Pipsqueak and Monkey decided to empty the entire bottom rack of the dishwasher all by herself. No help. Wow! I was and continue to be so blessed by that gesture. Love her!
97. Exercise equipment in my home.
98. Wine. It's so tastey!
99. Furniture. Let me clarify. I have a vision for what my house can look like. I know the furniture I want, but it is not time for us to buy it. I have been blessed with mismatched pieces. It is really a HUGE blessing! I have what I need, even if it's not what I prefer. God is so good to me. I am content!
100. A woman's touch. So, I was thinking that it is so neat that the Lord has given me a desire to create a homey-home. Even though I don't have my "dream furniture" I am content to use what I have and somehow (at least in my mind) I'm able to make it work!
Just think, I hit 100 things in 8 days. I know without a doubt that I could've listed more things each day, but I am a finite person, with mommy brain.
Another good day of exercising my gratitude. In the short time it took me to type these things out I can feel a marked difference in my outlook for today. I encourage you to take some time to type out a few things too!
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Day 7: Thanksgiving Month
Woke up this morning desperately needing to find things to be grateful for... my heart is sorely prone to complaining and grumbling (apply Philippians 2:14 here).
I know the Lord has put on my heart Isaiah 26:3 because it's been running through my mind consistently during waking thought since 10pm last night.
"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." Is 26:3 (ESV)
I'm gonna work on keeping my mind stayed on the One who is above all.
Big picture day. I'm talking BIIIIIIIG picture. Like, let's look at it from outer space... or better yet, Heaven!
71. Warm bed
72. Warm shower
73. Electricity
74. Healthy kids
75. Warm breakfasts
76. Fog, it's beautiful
77. .... tv .... we are able to watch the news as it unfolds. No longer do we need to wait to hear about it by word of mouth (or by horseback)
78. A third car. When the brakes go out of one, we can still get to where we need to go
79. cushions on seats
80. Sense of smell. Truly a wonderful blessing to be able to enjoy the smell of bread (or any food), candles, and even danger in forms of smoke, gas, etc. It's a gift!
81. Friends who truly understand me
82. Advil
83. Vitamins
84. Refridgerator
85. Toilet Paper
86. Paper Towels
87. Running water
88. Bathrooms in general... so grateful I don't have to use an outhouse or creek
89. The Bible. It corrects, encourages, lifts up, adjusts, comforts, amazes and astounds.
90. Handsome's job. Oh, where would we be if he didn't have a job.... grateful!
I know the Lord has put on my heart Isaiah 26:3 because it's been running through my mind consistently during waking thought since 10pm last night.
"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." Is 26:3 (ESV)
I'm gonna work on keeping my mind stayed on the One who is above all.
Big picture day. I'm talking BIIIIIIIG picture. Like, let's look at it from outer space... or better yet, Heaven!
71. Warm bed
72. Warm shower
73. Electricity
74. Healthy kids
75. Warm breakfasts
76. Fog, it's beautiful
77. .... tv .... we are able to watch the news as it unfolds. No longer do we need to wait to hear about it by word of mouth (or by horseback)
78. A third car. When the brakes go out of one, we can still get to where we need to go
79. cushions on seats
80. Sense of smell. Truly a wonderful blessing to be able to enjoy the smell of bread (or any food), candles, and even danger in forms of smoke, gas, etc. It's a gift!
81. Friends who truly understand me
82. Advil
83. Vitamins
84. Refridgerator
85. Toilet Paper
86. Paper Towels
87. Running water
88. Bathrooms in general... so grateful I don't have to use an outhouse or creek
89. The Bible. It corrects, encourages, lifts up, adjusts, comforts, amazes and astounds.
90. Handsome's job. Oh, where would we be if he didn't have a job.... grateful!
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Day 6: Thanksgiving Month
56. The fact that in my country it is "my right" to vote
57. God's sovereignty over things like elections
58. Chocolate croissants
59. Coffee with friends, catching up our lives after months of business.
60. My little girl's friends
61. 20 min naps when i'm just DOG tired
62. Batteries.... those little guys are so useful!! Most of my kids' toys run on 'em.
63. Neighbors who look out for me (and tell me when voting lines are super short)
64. Chocolate bars to bless the kiddos who were plain awesome today
65. Homemade chicken stock on hand for tonight's dinner
66. Handsome's sense of humor
67. Monkey crawling into bed with me for a quick nap
68. Talking with my brother on the phone
69. A clean bedroom
70. Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers.
57. God's sovereignty over things like elections
58. Chocolate croissants
59. Coffee with friends, catching up our lives after months of business.
60. My little girl's friends
61. 20 min naps when i'm just DOG tired
62. Batteries.... those little guys are so useful!! Most of my kids' toys run on 'em.
63. Neighbors who look out for me (and tell me when voting lines are super short)
64. Chocolate bars to bless the kiddos who were plain awesome today
65. Homemade chicken stock on hand for tonight's dinner
66. Handsome's sense of humor
67. Monkey crawling into bed with me for a quick nap
68. Talking with my brother on the phone
69. A clean bedroom
70. Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Kids Quotes
Pipsqueak is walking down the stairs and Monkey is trying to stall her so that she can be the first one down.
Monkey says to pipsqueak: "WAIT! You NEED to stop and PANIC!"
Monkey says to pipsqueak: "WAIT! You NEED to stop and PANIC!"
Day 5: Thanksgiving Month
41. A Pipsqueak that doesn't just miss me when I'm gone, but says it
42. Listening to Pipsqueak play with her stuffed animals and giving them high pitched voices
43. How Pipsqueak kisses things that she likes... like my lamp, the vacuum, the dog, her daddy, and most of all I love it when she gives ME kisses!!
44. Monkey's enthusiasm
45. When Monkey is telling me stories about something she likes she smiles the biggest and gets so excited she can't stop wiggling and ... I love that she wants my enthusiasm and I happily give it to her. Love.
46. Texts from friends throughout the day. Reminders that I'm not alone, and I'm blessed.
47. Talking with my mom on the phone.
48. Seeing pictures of her new place and somehow being a part of it... even if it's a miniscule amount.
49. Grace from God to make a hard decision and peace when the decision is made then blessing on those whom the decisions affects.
50. My church and all the wonderful, liberating, and God glorifying change!!
51. Random leftovers thrown together to make a pretty tasty lunch
52. Monkey cleaning up the living room AND making her bed perfectly, joyfully and without prompting
53. Grace for Tough Love with Pipsqueak today
54. A joyful heart all morning... could it be that being thankful is having an affect?
55. Handsome working from home today
42. Listening to Pipsqueak play with her stuffed animals and giving them high pitched voices
43. How Pipsqueak kisses things that she likes... like my lamp, the vacuum, the dog, her daddy, and most of all I love it when she gives ME kisses!!
44. Monkey's enthusiasm
45. When Monkey is telling me stories about something she likes she smiles the biggest and gets so excited she can't stop wiggling and ... I love that she wants my enthusiasm and I happily give it to her. Love.
46. Texts from friends throughout the day. Reminders that I'm not alone, and I'm blessed.
47. Talking with my mom on the phone.
48. Seeing pictures of her new place and somehow being a part of it... even if it's a miniscule amount.
49. Grace from God to make a hard decision and peace when the decision is made then blessing on those whom the decisions affects.
50. My church and all the wonderful, liberating, and God glorifying change!!
51. Random leftovers thrown together to make a pretty tasty lunch
52. Monkey cleaning up the living room AND making her bed perfectly, joyfully and without prompting
53. Grace for Tough Love with Pipsqueak today
54. A joyful heart all morning... could it be that being thankful is having an affect?
55. Handsome working from home today
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Kids Quotes: Thanks
Monkey and Pipsqueak say the funniest and sweetest things. Those things are my gems and treasures for each day. Bright and happy THANK YOU LORD spots that I want to treasure. I'm starting a new tag on this blog called "Kids Quotes".
Pipsqueak: Mom, I want some bredthest. I want honey bunches of dopes.
Pipsqueak: Mom, I want some bredthest. I want honey bunches of dopes.
Day 4 : Thanksgiving Month
26. Waking up to hot brewed coffee
27. Handsome's kindness to buy more coconut milk for me so I can have low-cal and yummy coffee creamer.
28. Handsome's awesomeness in happily watching the kids (and making them homemade cheeseburgers) last night so I could go out and have fun!
29. Long time friends... friends who knew me when I was awkward, 12, and annoying... yet stuck with me! Love you my dear friend, H.
30. Talking in the car late at night while eating donuts purchased 2 minutes before the shop closed.... and getting the best advice from H.
31. Being thankful... yup, I'm thankful for being thankful! It does wonders for my heart!!
32. The smell of outside when someone is burning their woodstove
33. A dog who goes poop really fast when it's cold outside... hehe, or raining.
34. Daylight savings time. Even though my kids aren't quite getting it yet, I still think it's something to be grateful for. One day I'll be more grateful for it when that extra hour actually means something
35. Colored pens. I mean, imagine if we only had blue or black pens... BOR-RING!
36. Breakfast that is as easy as pouring a bowl of cereal. What a world and time I live in that I don't always have to "make" breakfast!! Cheerios and Honey Bunches of Oats (Almond) are special blessings to a sleepy mom.
37. My smart phone. How did I live without it? Maps and gps whenever I need it, store information in seconds, calling or texting my hubby so he doesn't worry. niiiiiiice.
38. I'm thankful that I have a full, unopened box of diapers that I can donate to the relief effort after Sandy's beatdown of NJ and NY. (I was going to return it, but I think God knew who those diapers were going to and distracted me. I hope some little one who is displaced right now will enjoy a nice clean diaper soon...praying)
39. Comments on this blog from folks who are joining in and giving thanks! God is good to us... in so many ways!
40. New (to me) music!
27. Handsome's kindness to buy more coconut milk for me so I can have low-cal and yummy coffee creamer.
28. Handsome's awesomeness in happily watching the kids (and making them homemade cheeseburgers) last night so I could go out and have fun!
29. Long time friends... friends who knew me when I was awkward, 12, and annoying... yet stuck with me! Love you my dear friend, H.
30. Talking in the car late at night while eating donuts purchased 2 minutes before the shop closed.... and getting the best advice from H.
31. Being thankful... yup, I'm thankful for being thankful! It does wonders for my heart!!
32. The smell of outside when someone is burning their woodstove
33. A dog who goes poop really fast when it's cold outside... hehe, or raining.
34. Daylight savings time. Even though my kids aren't quite getting it yet, I still think it's something to be grateful for. One day I'll be more grateful for it when that extra hour actually means something
35. Colored pens. I mean, imagine if we only had blue or black pens... BOR-RING!
36. Breakfast that is as easy as pouring a bowl of cereal. What a world and time I live in that I don't always have to "make" breakfast!! Cheerios and Honey Bunches of Oats (Almond) are special blessings to a sleepy mom.
37. My smart phone. How did I live without it? Maps and gps whenever I need it, store information in seconds, calling or texting my hubby so he doesn't worry. niiiiiiice.
38. I'm thankful that I have a full, unopened box of diapers that I can donate to the relief effort after Sandy's beatdown of NJ and NY. (I was going to return it, but I think God knew who those diapers were going to and distracted me. I hope some little one who is displaced right now will enjoy a nice clean diaper soon...praying)
39. Comments on this blog from folks who are joining in and giving thanks! God is good to us... in so many ways!
40. New (to me) music!
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Day 3: Thanksgiving Month
17. Snuggling on the couch, under a blanket with Pipsqueak, watching cartoons while the rest of the house is still sleeping.
18. Monkey's quiet smile at me from across the table
19. Smashed Eggs 'N Toast for breakfast
20. That sore feeling the day after a good workout
21. Renewal of old friendships
22. Friends who are getting married today
23. Going to a concert this afternoon with a long time friend
24. A Saturday where Handsome can sleep in
25. Our old fart of a dog who is still the sweetest even though he can be the most irritating
18. Monkey's quiet smile at me from across the table
19. Smashed Eggs 'N Toast for breakfast
20. That sore feeling the day after a good workout
21. Renewal of old friendships
22. Friends who are getting married today
23. Going to a concert this afternoon with a long time friend
24. A Saturday where Handsome can sleep in
25. Our old fart of a dog who is still the sweetest even though he can be the most irritating
Friday, November 2, 2012
Nov 2, 2012
Today marks the four year anniversary of my niece's passing. It has been a very emotional day for me. Tears have been shed. I have yelled at my kids in impatience. I have cried because I yelled at my kids. I have sat at my desk, put my face in my hands and just wept to the Lord asking for forgiveness and help for this day. I'm feeling a bit on edge.... yet also finding that I'm hording too. Hording my kids, hording the memories of all the little things they do that make them little. Like holding their little teddy bears hands and making them walk down the stairs as if they were little buddies. Or twirling around in a fresh dress. Or even the often annoying noises they produce just to be silly.
My niece was a few weeks old, but her life was not in vain. Far from it. It can seem that way sometimes. It can prompt me to question why God chose to give her to our family at all if it wasn't to enjoy her.... but. But. Her life has impacted hundreds of people. And I dare say, one day it will be thousands and thousands. There is a ripple effect happening here. Those who knew her, primarily her parents who are above and beyond in my book, can all testify to the wonderful love of God because they been found clinging to him through grief. Oh the grief has caused many to turn to Jesus. To see Him. To know Him. In turn, they testify to others and they to others. It's the ripple effect. A small and short life is the drop that starts us all to turn to Christ and to bound to Him.
So today I'm thankful for A.
Thanksgiving: Linger List
Free online workout videos, Halloween candy, forgiveness from my Pipsqeak, jokes from my Monkey, new meatloaf recipe, bread machine, Advil, and hot tea.
Total number of listed items as of today (by far not complete) ::::16
My niece was a few weeks old, but her life was not in vain. Far from it. It can seem that way sometimes. It can prompt me to question why God chose to give her to our family at all if it wasn't to enjoy her.... but. But. Her life has impacted hundreds of people. And I dare say, one day it will be thousands and thousands. There is a ripple effect happening here. Those who knew her, primarily her parents who are above and beyond in my book, can all testify to the wonderful love of God because they been found clinging to him through grief. Oh the grief has caused many to turn to Jesus. To see Him. To know Him. In turn, they testify to others and they to others. It's the ripple effect. A small and short life is the drop that starts us all to turn to Christ and to bound to Him.
So today I'm thankful for A.
Thanksgiving: Linger List
Free online workout videos, Halloween candy, forgiveness from my Pipsqeak, jokes from my Monkey, new meatloaf recipe, bread machine, Advil, and hot tea.
Total number of listed items as of today (by far not complete) ::::16
Monkey and Pipsqueak
Monkey and Pipsqueak. That's what we'll call them. They both regulalry give me so many major reasons to be thankful. But to be honest, they themselves are one of the biggest reasons to be thankful.
Monkey is the first one to call me Mom. What a thing to be called.... can you believe I'm a mom?! Her zest and enthusiasm for all things is a thing to be cherished. I don't always cherish it like I should, but man, I'm loving seeing life through her eyes.
Pipsqueak is, well obviously, the second, but she is rather special in her own right. She is the first to be born on accident in our bathroom.... and though that was pretty neat, she is by far grander and more amazing than any story about an accidental homebirth (complete with EMTs being lost and late).
Total number of listed items as of today (by far not complete) ::::7
Monkey is the first one to call me Mom. What a thing to be called.... can you believe I'm a mom?! Her zest and enthusiasm for all things is a thing to be cherished. I don't always cherish it like I should, but man, I'm loving seeing life through her eyes.
Pipsqueak is, well obviously, the second, but she is rather special in her own right. She is the first to be born on accident in our bathroom.... and though that was pretty neat, she is by far grander and more amazing than any story about an accidental homebirth (complete with EMTs being lost and late).
Total number of listed items as of today (by far not complete) ::::7
Thankfulness. A Beginning.
I have had a long summer. A very looong year in fact, but this summer was particularly challenging for me. Between some church issues, family moving away, friendships changing, relational issues, and just plain wacky health.... it's been Lo-hong! I have found myself in many low places this year battling for joy, battling for patience, battling for peace. I have found myself in dark pits of despair and loneliness in my heart... or even feeling as if I would have a mental breakdown if one.more.thing. were to come my way. But you know what?! I've not broken!! God has carried me through even when I consciously refused to open His word or consciously refused to cast my burden on him. (I hate when I do that!)
Welp. While my challenges are FAR from over, and while I'm still in battle for joy, daily, I have been lifted, ever so slightly, by the gentle (isn't he kind?) hand of my Savior to look for my blessings. I want to count my blessings!
So. Chin lifted. Eyes alert. I dig in.
Thankfulness: Linger List
: Coffee, cozy robes, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, glasses instead of contacts, and of course a husband who faithfully goes to work to bring home the nitrate/nitrite free bacon!
Total number of listed items as of today (by far not complete) :::: 5
Welp. While my challenges are FAR from over, and while I'm still in battle for joy, daily, I have been lifted, ever so slightly, by the gentle (isn't he kind?) hand of my Savior to look for my blessings. I want to count my blessings!
So. Chin lifted. Eyes alert. I dig in.
Thankfulness: Linger List
: Coffee, cozy robes, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, glasses instead of contacts, and of course a husband who faithfully goes to work to bring home the nitrate/nitrite free bacon!
Total number of listed items as of today (by far not complete) :::: 5
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