One of my favorite Christmas songs is "Welcome To This World" and I don't know about you, but after having a child of your own, it means even more. I look at my sweet baby boy and just imagine. Imagine what it would have been like.
"Tiny fingers sent to heal us...
Tender brow prepared for thorns...
Tiny heart who's blood will save us...
Welcome to this world."I can't even imagine.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Hope
Lately, the news has been flooded with depressing news. There are the scandals on Wall Street and corrupt politicians, to the uncaring shoppers who trampled a Walmart employee on Black Friday, just to grab that single item at a bargain price. There are also reports on the local news of many bank robberies and even one family held at gun point, in their own home, while the intruders stole all of their wrapped presents under their tree. My own parents' house was broken into last week. Thankfully, they were not there and they didn't get anything of real value.
Hard times. Financial insecurity. Desperate people. Scary thought.
To be in such despair, having no hope, feeling a sense of urgency that would make you do things so careless.
All this amidst the season we are celebrating. The irony of it is amazing. Celebrating the birth of our Savior, our King and by His birth gave us hope and peace, the very opposite of despair.
It doesn't really matter how many pretty packages are under the tree or if we find good bargains at Walmart. It doesn't even matter if your floors don't sparkle for your guests, if your Christmas cookies are just perfect, or if you send out those cute Christmas cards this year. None of it matters.
Some people out their are missing it, missing the meaning of the season. In a desperate attempt to find money for presents for their children, or an attempt to hold on to their social status, they are missing it.
So don't find yourself wishing you had more for yourself or your children this Christmas, although very hard to do sometimes. Don't despair or have a lack of hope for the future, for our KING has come and brought us that very thing. In Him alone we find hope and a future. Him alone.
And for two other great Christmas reminders, one about not "missing it" and the other about the simple things, please check out this from Wendymom and this one from Lotts of Scotts. Two great reads!
Hard times. Financial insecurity. Desperate people. Scary thought.
To be in such despair, having no hope, feeling a sense of urgency that would make you do things so careless.
All this amidst the season we are celebrating. The irony of it is amazing. Celebrating the birth of our Savior, our King and by His birth gave us hope and peace, the very opposite of despair.
It doesn't really matter how many pretty packages are under the tree or if we find good bargains at Walmart. It doesn't even matter if your floors don't sparkle for your guests, if your Christmas cookies are just perfect, or if you send out those cute Christmas cards this year. None of it matters.
Some people out their are missing it, missing the meaning of the season. In a desperate attempt to find money for presents for their children, or an attempt to hold on to their social status, they are missing it.
So don't find yourself wishing you had more for yourself or your children this Christmas, although very hard to do sometimes. Don't despair or have a lack of hope for the future, for our KING has come and brought us that very thing. In Him alone we find hope and a future. Him alone.
And for two other great Christmas reminders, one about not "missing it" and the other about the simple things, please check out this from Wendymom and this one from Lotts of Scotts. Two great reads!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Friends
I am lucky enough to get the spend this Saturday night with my girlfriends from high school. We have had this annual Christmas party every year and it is always so much fun to re-connect with these dear friends and remember old days in the past.
Last Friday night, I went to an annual ornament swapping party with a different set of friends, many of which are in my small bible study group. These women also hold a very special place in my heart. I have shared some of my deepest thoughts with these women, and they with me.
Within the past 10 months I have made new friends via blogging, some of whom I have never even met, but feel like I know them very well. I have enjoyed reading about their lives, their families, their friends, their battles, their disappointements, and their joy.
My life has richly been blessed by friends. One of my dear sweet friends sent me this video today. Please take a moment to watch. I think you will relate.
*(Don't forget to pause my music player at the bottom of the page)*
Last Friday night, I went to an annual ornament swapping party with a different set of friends, many of which are in my small bible study group. These women also hold a very special place in my heart. I have shared some of my deepest thoughts with these women, and they with me.
Within the past 10 months I have made new friends via blogging, some of whom I have never even met, but feel like I know them very well. I have enjoyed reading about their lives, their families, their friends, their battles, their disappointements, and their joy.
My life has richly been blessed by friends. One of my dear sweet friends sent me this video today. Please take a moment to watch. I think you will relate.
*(Don't forget to pause my music player at the bottom of the page)*
Friday, December 12, 2008
He's Out of Control
You would think the combination of these things would be dangerous, wouldn't you?
My boy is a mess. At only 14 months old, he is giving me a run for my money! He completely wears me out. He is into absolutely anything and everything!
A few weeks ago, he managed to open up our linen closet and get out the plunger. I found him with it on HIS FACE!
About a month ago, I had to call the poison control center because I found him with my container of Burt's Bees Hand Salve, the top off, and it all over his hands and mouth. My husband's first reaction was, "It's all natural, so it can't hurt him." I thought about that for a second and then said, "T, there are lots of plants and berries that are poisonous so that just doesn't make sense!" I mean, I think arsenic is found naturally in the Earth's crust, so the "All Natural" thing just didn't add up. After a phone call, Poison Control did confirm that I had nothing to worry about, but he would have very soft lips for a while.
Yesterday, as I was helping the girls on the computer, he got a glass ornament of the tree and crushed it in his little hands. As I was brushing off the colored glass from his hands I heard a loud...CRUNCHHH. He had gotten a piece in his mouth and chewed it! I did manage to then get it out of his mouth before he swallowed any (I think).
About 5 minutes after the glass ball incident, someone forgot and left the door open to down the hallway. I went looking for him (I swear only about 20 seconds had passed) and found him with his hands in the toilet water splashing it all around.
I am a worrier by nature. I always think and worry about horrible things that can hurt my children, and even though I know God is in control and shouldn't worry so much, I do. I struggle with this issue every day. It's almost laughable that God gave me this little boy that eats glass and hand salve and plays in germ infested toilet water! I know he didn't give me this little boy on accident, and even though you would think that I would worry MORE...I think I am actually worrying less.
My boy is a mess. At only 14 months old, he is giving me a run for my money! He completely wears me out. He is into absolutely anything and everything!
A few weeks ago, he managed to open up our linen closet and get out the plunger. I found him with it on HIS FACE!
About a month ago, I had to call the poison control center because I found him with my container of Burt's Bees Hand Salve, the top off, and it all over his hands and mouth. My husband's first reaction was, "It's all natural, so it can't hurt him." I thought about that for a second and then said, "T, there are lots of plants and berries that are poisonous so that just doesn't make sense!" I mean, I think arsenic is found naturally in the Earth's crust, so the "All Natural" thing just didn't add up. After a phone call, Poison Control did confirm that I had nothing to worry about, but he would have very soft lips for a while.
Yesterday, as I was helping the girls on the computer, he got a glass ornament of the tree and crushed it in his little hands. As I was brushing off the colored glass from his hands I heard a loud...CRUNCHHH. He had gotten a piece in his mouth and chewed it! I did manage to then get it out of his mouth before he swallowed any (I think).
About 5 minutes after the glass ball incident, someone forgot and left the door open to down the hallway. I went looking for him (I swear only about 20 seconds had passed) and found him with his hands in the toilet water splashing it all around.
I am a worrier by nature. I always think and worry about horrible things that can hurt my children, and even though I know God is in control and shouldn't worry so much, I do. I struggle with this issue every day. It's almost laughable that God gave me this little boy that eats glass and hand salve and plays in germ infested toilet water! I know he didn't give me this little boy on accident, and even though you would think that I would worry MORE...I think I am actually worrying less.
Santa's Helper
M was an elf in the Christmas dance recital, "Twas the Night Before Christmas" a few weeks ago. Here are some pictures of my little elf.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Random Tag About Random Things
I was tagged from Auburn Girl Always to do a meme about seven random things. Perfect. I love random. It's what most of my posts are all about. Completely random. It sort of is how my mind works I must admit. Ok, so, well, here are seven random things:
1. I embarrassed myself Monday by crying in front of people and friends at my girls ballet class. Why? Well, I'm not sure really WHY I cried,(perhaps PMS) but I was frustrated with the $313 check amount that I was writing to the ballet studio. Don't get me wrong, I love this place as well as the instructor, but was completely overwhelmed with the amount I was having to fork over for ballet, after just spending $ on groceries and school that very same day. It was just overwhelming to spend so much $$ on ballet costumes, recital fees, plus the monthly dues all right here before Christmas. And on top of that you know your spending the money on something they enjoy, but for heavens sake, we know that neither one of them will be a prima ballerina when they grow up or receive any school scholarship for jazz! But the point is..I CRIED. I completely lost it. Feel.Like.A.Fool. (and by the way, thanks dear friend for the hug and words of encouragement, even though you probably thought I would leave there and check myself into some loonie bin immediately!)
2. I have to steal this one from Auburn Gal because I hate it too....SOCK FUZZ between my toes. Can't stand it! I can't wear socks to bed no matter how cold my feet are because my toes have to be FREE....PLUS I hate sock fuzz! The only time sock fuzz is a good thing is when it is in between my son's toes because then I can pick it out from tiny, pudgy toes!
3. I wish that I would have read more blogs before I created my own. I wish I had been more creative. Case in point: a lot of people refer to their children by cute little names. Let's see, there is Stinkerbell & Lucky, and the whole "Mck"Donalds menu...Mcknugget, SmallFry, etc. I mean, how cute! How clever. I feel very uncreative calling my kids, M, K, and J. ....How original!
4. I would have loved to have been born skinny and rich. I know it's completely selfish and vain...but it's my blog and my randomness, so I wish I was skinny and rich.
5. Being a mom truly is the hardest thing I've ever done. I fall short all the time. I forget to send things back to school, I yell too much (mainly in the mornings), I don't stimulate their minds near enough, I even forgot to go pick up one child from school this year already (well, I was 45 minutes late!). Despite all that, it truly is the thing that makes my entire life worth it, meaningful. My children bring me so much joy.
6. I am not good about putting things back in their places. Terrible, in fact. I am as opposite of OCD as you can get. I create piles all over the place and the piles generally stay there for a really long time before I ever actually put them back. My kids are following in my footsteps and I can't stand that. Now I have to put back 4 people's things/stuff! My husband, on the other hand, ALWAYS puts things back. I drive him nuts!
7. Not that I have to inform anyone about this, as they, I'm sure, have noticed, but I am not good with punctuation. I throw commas in wherever or leave them out or just use --- or .... when I feel like it. Again, it's my blog, so who cares? If you care, don't read it.
I know I am supposed to stop at seven, but just to leave you with one to grow on (plus, I have a tendency to talk way too much...especially about random crap...I can't shut up..)
8. I once went to the wrong baby shower. Very embarrassing. Even drank their punch and ATE THEIR NUTS BEFORE I realized I was in the wrong place!! (Different blog, different day...)
1. I embarrassed myself Monday by crying in front of people and friends at my girls ballet class. Why? Well, I'm not sure really WHY I cried,(perhaps PMS) but I was frustrated with the $313 check amount that I was writing to the ballet studio. Don't get me wrong, I love this place as well as the instructor, but was completely overwhelmed with the amount I was having to fork over for ballet, after just spending $ on groceries and school that very same day. It was just overwhelming to spend so much $$ on ballet costumes, recital fees, plus the monthly dues all right here before Christmas. And on top of that you know your spending the money on something they enjoy, but for heavens sake, we know that neither one of them will be a prima ballerina when they grow up or receive any school scholarship for jazz! But the point is..I CRIED. I completely lost it. Feel.Like.A.Fool. (and by the way, thanks dear friend for the hug and words of encouragement, even though you probably thought I would leave there and check myself into some loonie bin immediately!)
2. I have to steal this one from Auburn Gal because I hate it too....SOCK FUZZ between my toes. Can't stand it! I can't wear socks to bed no matter how cold my feet are because my toes have to be FREE....PLUS I hate sock fuzz! The only time sock fuzz is a good thing is when it is in between my son's toes because then I can pick it out from tiny, pudgy toes!
3. I wish that I would have read more blogs before I created my own. I wish I had been more creative. Case in point: a lot of people refer to their children by cute little names. Let's see, there is Stinkerbell & Lucky, and the whole "Mck"Donalds menu...Mcknugget, SmallFry, etc. I mean, how cute! How clever. I feel very uncreative calling my kids, M, K, and J. ....How original!
4. I would have loved to have been born skinny and rich. I know it's completely selfish and vain...but it's my blog and my randomness, so I wish I was skinny and rich.
5. Being a mom truly is the hardest thing I've ever done. I fall short all the time. I forget to send things back to school, I yell too much (mainly in the mornings), I don't stimulate their minds near enough, I even forgot to go pick up one child from school this year already (well, I was 45 minutes late!). Despite all that, it truly is the thing that makes my entire life worth it, meaningful. My children bring me so much joy.
6. I am not good about putting things back in their places. Terrible, in fact. I am as opposite of OCD as you can get. I create piles all over the place and the piles generally stay there for a really long time before I ever actually put them back. My kids are following in my footsteps and I can't stand that. Now I have to put back 4 people's things/stuff! My husband, on the other hand, ALWAYS puts things back. I drive him nuts!
7. Not that I have to inform anyone about this, as they, I'm sure, have noticed, but I am not good with punctuation. I throw commas in wherever or leave them out or just use --- or .... when I feel like it. Again, it's my blog, so who cares? If you care, don't read it.
I know I am supposed to stop at seven, but just to leave you with one to grow on (plus, I have a tendency to talk way too much...especially about random crap...I can't shut up..)
8. I once went to the wrong baby shower. Very embarrassing. Even drank their punch and ATE THEIR NUTS BEFORE I realized I was in the wrong place!! (Different blog, different day...)
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
More Naughty Than Nice
We ventured out the other day to do a little Christmas shopping at the mall with the entire family in tow. It sounded like a good enough idea at first, but ended up with two whining girls in the department stores tired of walking, wanting to go home practically 10 minutes after getting there, and J fussing in his stroller because he didn't get his nap in. It's always crazy when you try to take kids shopping, much less 3 of them in the Men's department of Macy's. I mean, I about go crazy myself spending more than about 10 minutes in a Men's section. There is only so many golf shirts, ties and brown shoes that one can stand to look at!
No, it really wasn't that bad. A little whining and complaining, but that was to be expected. What did strike me was that we found ourselves surrounded by huge pictures of Calvin Klein models wearing nothing but their briefs. Bless my two little girls hearts! M looked at me in disgust and said, "Now, that's just inappropriate!" I smiled and agreed and just let it die, only until a half hour later we were cruising down the mall and passed Frederick's of Hollywood. Oh My. What is she going to say about this one And then it came..."Mom, did you see that picture? That was just gross. Her underwear was up her butt."
It's really sad when you can't even take your kids to the mall to Christmas shop without finding yourself exposing them to things you wished you hadn't.
Tis the season of this generation, I guess.
No, it really wasn't that bad. A little whining and complaining, but that was to be expected. What did strike me was that we found ourselves surrounded by huge pictures of Calvin Klein models wearing nothing but their briefs. Bless my two little girls hearts! M looked at me in disgust and said, "Now, that's just inappropriate!" I smiled and agreed and just let it die, only until a half hour later we were cruising down the mall and passed Frederick's of Hollywood. Oh My. What is she going to say about this one And then it came..."Mom, did you see that picture? That was just gross. Her underwear was up her butt."
It's really sad when you can't even take your kids to the mall to Christmas shop without finding yourself exposing them to things you wished you hadn't.
Tis the season of this generation, I guess.
Monday, December 8, 2008
I Don't Just Watch TV All Day, I Promise.
I have always loved the TV channel that does 25 days until Christmas. They run Christmas shows all month long and I think it's great, but since when is Harry Potter and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory a Christmas movie? I think it should be a month long of Frosty, Rudolph and the Heatmizer...all those timeless claymation Christmas movies that I grew up watching.
However, I have noticed that my children do not get as excited as I do (or did, when I was a kid) when they come on. I remember it being such a treat to see Charlie Brown or Santa Claus Is Coming To Town coming on the TV.
They don't feel the same and I'm not sure why. Is it because we have purchased the complete box set of DVD's for Charlie Brown and the timeless Christmas claymation movies so they can watch them anytime they want...so what's the big excitement when it comes on TV?? Or could it be the animation is not nearly as good as the movies that they see today? Nevertheless, I love these movies and sometimes find myself watching them on my TV, while the kids are watching Hannah Montana on theirs.
Above all though, a Christmas movie that brings me so much joy and laughter...
Christmas Vacation. You just gotta love that movie! And you just gotta be thankful you don't have anybody in the family like Eddie....or maybe you do and you can just relate really well to Chevy Chase.
However, I have noticed that my children do not get as excited as I do (or did, when I was a kid) when they come on. I remember it being such a treat to see Charlie Brown or Santa Claus Is Coming To Town coming on the TV.
They don't feel the same and I'm not sure why. Is it because we have purchased the complete box set of DVD's for Charlie Brown and the timeless Christmas claymation movies so they can watch them anytime they want...so what's the big excitement when it comes on TV?? Or could it be the animation is not nearly as good as the movies that they see today? Nevertheless, I love these movies and sometimes find myself watching them on my TV, while the kids are watching Hannah Montana on theirs.
Above all though, a Christmas movie that brings me so much joy and laughter...
Christmas Vacation. You just gotta love that movie! And you just gotta be thankful you don't have anybody in the family like Eddie....or maybe you do and you can just relate really well to Chevy Chase.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Good Email
This was in my inbox today. I enjoyed it, so thought I would share:
T'was the month before Christmas
When all through our land,
Not a Christian was praying
Nor taking a stand.
Why the Politically Correct police had taken away,
The reason for Christmas - no one could say.
The children were told by their schools not to sing,
About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.
It might hurt peopl e's feelings, the teachers would say
December 25th is just a " Holiday ".
Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit
Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!
CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod
Something was changing, something quite odd!
Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa
In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.
As Targets were hanging their trees upside down
At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.
At K-Mart and Staples and Penney's and Sears
You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.
Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-is-ty
Are words that were used to intimidate me.
Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen
On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton !
At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter
To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.
And we spoke not a word, as they took away our Faith
Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace.
The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded
The reason for the season, stopped before it started.
So as you celebrate "Winter Break"
Under your "Dream Tree"
Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.
Choose your words carefully, choose what you say
PROUDLY SAY:
"MERRY CHRISTMAS",
Not "Happy Holiday"
T'was the month before Christmas
When all through our land,
Not a Christian was praying
Nor taking a stand.
Why the Politically Correct police had taken away,
The reason for Christmas - no one could say.
The children were told by their schools not to sing,
About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.
It might hurt peopl e's feelings, the teachers would say
December 25th is just a " Holiday ".
Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit
Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!
CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod
Something was changing, something quite odd!
Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa
In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.
As Targets were hanging their trees upside down
At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.
At K-Mart and Staples and Penney's and Sears
You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.
Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-is-ty
Are words that were used to intimidate me.
Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen
On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton !
At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter
To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.
And we spoke not a word, as they took away our Faith
Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace.
The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded
The reason for the season, stopped before it started.
So as you celebrate "Winter Break"
Under your "Dream Tree"
Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.
Choose your words carefully, choose what you say
PROUDLY SAY:
"MERRY CHRISTMAS",
Not "Happy Holiday"
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Could You Imagine Life Without A Washing Machine!?
My post from yesterday got me to thinking what kinds of things I couldn't live without, (or wouldn't want to) and those things that I possibly could live without. I am speaking of technology and "things", not family, friends, children, God, because of course that IS life. So here is my list:
Things I wouldn't WANT to live without (not that I couldn't):
washing machine
dryer
dishwasher
telephone
microwave
car
Burt's Bees Lip Balm
Things I COULD (possibly) live without (not that I want to):
t.v.
dvr/teevo(I don't even have this now...is that even what they are called?)
cell phone
computer/Internet (I love it, but I lived without it for 30 years, so I figure I could give it up if I had to)
DVD player in the car (Ooh, but that's a tough call)
hair dryer (although it wouldn't be pretty)
curling iron
That's about all I can think of at the moment. Any other ideas?
Things I wouldn't WANT to live without (not that I couldn't):
washing machine
dryer
dishwasher
telephone
microwave
car
Burt's Bees Lip Balm
Things I COULD (possibly) live without (not that I want to):
t.v.
dvr/teevo(I don't even have this now...is that even what they are called?)
cell phone
computer/Internet (I love it, but I lived without it for 30 years, so I figure I could give it up if I had to)
DVD player in the car (Ooh, but that's a tough call)
hair dryer (although it wouldn't be pretty)
curling iron
That's about all I can think of at the moment. Any other ideas?
Something to Ponder
What have I missed?? My hard drive crashed and I have been without a computer for a few days. Fortunately, they were able to save all of my stuff! Whew! Anyway, not having a computer for a couple of days was paralyzing. I couldn't read my favorite blogs, couldn't do a quick google reference, and most importantly, couldn't work. Whoever once said, "you don't miss it until it's gone," was so very true, however, I don't think that person was referring the the world wide web.
Seriously, think about it...we have everything literally at the tips of our fingers. It's almost too convenient, too easy. It's no wonder that we have become so lazy. I mean, why call a friend when you could just text them? Why go out and fight crowds at the mall, when you can just sit in your pj's and order all your Christmas presents? You can even find a partner on the Internet...who needs good old fashioned courting? Mmmmmm...says something about our generation, doesn't it? Just imagine what our children's generation will be like.
Oh, but it's so good to have a computer again!! What did I ever do without one?
Seriously, think about it...we have everything literally at the tips of our fingers. It's almost too convenient, too easy. It's no wonder that we have become so lazy. I mean, why call a friend when you could just text them? Why go out and fight crowds at the mall, when you can just sit in your pj's and order all your Christmas presents? You can even find a partner on the Internet...who needs good old fashioned courting? Mmmmmm...says something about our generation, doesn't it? Just imagine what our children's generation will be like.
Oh, but it's so good to have a computer again!! What did I ever do without one?
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
For Laughs
Thought I would share this video of comedian,Jim Gaffigan as he talks about holidays, in hopes that it brings some laughter your way today.
Have a happy Thanksgiving.
Have a happy Thanksgiving.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Greatest Gift Of All
The other night the girls and I put up our playroom Christmas tree and of course we pulled out the Christmas music to put us in the mood. I had a ball watching the girls pull out the ornaments and squeal with delight as they found their "favorites" and carefully found a good spot for them on the tree. They laughed and giggled as they did this together and it brought me so much joy to watch.
Later, T and I gave them the Walmart, Target and American Girl catalogs that had come in the mail to look through so that they could begin their wish lists to Santa. Alabama (oh, I'm a fan of some Christmas country!) was playing quietly on the Cd player while my girls were "oooh-ing" and "ahhh-ing" over toys, dolls, and games. I heard a lot of "Ooooh, I REALLY want THAT!," and "Gotta have THIS," but what I heard above it all was the laughter, the smiles, the excitement, the joy, ..the memory that they were making sitting right their on their bean bags. Belly laughter, rolling around on the bean bags, messed up hair, pj's on, making a wish list for Santa along with best friend, sister.
T noticed it too, and we both looked at each other with affection, and I said to him, "You know what? We have already given them one of the biggest gifts that we ever could.....each other. A sister."
Although I do have a brother and a sister, they are 8 and 9 years my senior, so as you can imagine, I was somewhat like an only child growing up. Years have seemed to make the 8 year gap grow smaller somehow and I'm extremely lucky to have both my brother and my sister, yet as I looked at my girls that evening, I couldn't help but feel a slight bit of jealousy because I didn't have the same experience. The joy of growing up together with a sibling is priceless.
I know that most days around my house don't exactly look as nice and "Hallmark-ish", because the reality is that they fight and argue quite a bit. On days like those, I could "sell them for a nickel and get change," as a very, wise lady recently told me. However, on the good days, I'm always overjoyed when I see the two of them bonding, loving each other, and enjoying each other. A great gift. I hope they will always see it that way themselves. I hope that they always see each other as a forever friend.
"A sister...A little bit of childhood that can never be lost."
"Having a sister is like having a best friend you can't get rid of. You know that whatever you do, they'll still be there."
All this being said, I don't think that either one of them would appreciate no gifts on Christmas morning and us informing them that we had already given them the huge gift of "sisterhood", so we'll let them keep writing their wish list, even though the former sure would be a lot easier on the pocketbook.
Later, T and I gave them the Walmart, Target and American Girl catalogs that had come in the mail to look through so that they could begin their wish lists to Santa. Alabama (oh, I'm a fan of some Christmas country!) was playing quietly on the Cd player while my girls were "oooh-ing" and "ahhh-ing" over toys, dolls, and games. I heard a lot of "Ooooh, I REALLY want THAT!," and "Gotta have THIS," but what I heard above it all was the laughter, the smiles, the excitement, the joy, ..the memory that they were making sitting right their on their bean bags. Belly laughter, rolling around on the bean bags, messed up hair, pj's on, making a wish list for Santa along with best friend, sister.
T noticed it too, and we both looked at each other with affection, and I said to him, "You know what? We have already given them one of the biggest gifts that we ever could.....each other. A sister."
Although I do have a brother and a sister, they are 8 and 9 years my senior, so as you can imagine, I was somewhat like an only child growing up. Years have seemed to make the 8 year gap grow smaller somehow and I'm extremely lucky to have both my brother and my sister, yet as I looked at my girls that evening, I couldn't help but feel a slight bit of jealousy because I didn't have the same experience. The joy of growing up together with a sibling is priceless.
I know that most days around my house don't exactly look as nice and "Hallmark-ish", because the reality is that they fight and argue quite a bit. On days like those, I could "sell them for a nickel and get change," as a very, wise lady recently told me. However, on the good days, I'm always overjoyed when I see the two of them bonding, loving each other, and enjoying each other. A great gift. I hope they will always see it that way themselves. I hope that they always see each other as a forever friend.
"A sister...A little bit of childhood that can never be lost."
"Having a sister is like having a best friend you can't get rid of. You know that whatever you do, they'll still be there."
All this being said, I don't think that either one of them would appreciate no gifts on Christmas morning and us informing them that we had already given them the huge gift of "sisterhood", so we'll let them keep writing their wish list, even though the former sure would be a lot easier on the pocketbook.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Different
All the local shops are gearing up for Christmas. Walmart even had out Chritmas decorations before Halloween I'm pretty sure.(Look..I have even decorated my blog with Christmas colors) The wish lists have begun, spinning from all the toy commercials on t.v. right now. This is the time that most of us start losing control, spending too much money and worrying about what the Christmas dinner will consist of.
I ran across this video at holyexperience today and thought I would also share it here. Take a look.
Let's try to be different this year.
I ran across this video at holyexperience today and thought I would also share it here. Take a look.
Let's try to be different this year.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Flower Girls and Dancing Divas
I love seeing the personalities of my children develop. It's equally as satisfying to see how different their personalities are from one another. I really saw this during the past weekend as they participated as flower girls in their cousin's wedding. The weekend was jammed packed full of events and social gatherings with many people they had never met, or family that they have only seen a handful of times. I had no idea how they would handle those situations, much less how they would handle walking down an aisle with hundreds of eyes on them. They did great..fantastic in fact.
M's personality really showed the day of the wedding. All dressed up in white and flowers in her ringlet hair, she was cutting up laughing and doing "magic tricks" for the bride and the bridesmaid in a tiny room as they waited for wedding time. She didn't show an ounce of shyness, as a matter of fact quite outgoing. After the actual ceremony the bridesmaids were sitting on the first pew of the church and M walked past them all and gave them high-fives, as if her "team" had won a ballgame. At the reception, I couldn't find her and then I saw her in the middle of the dance floor, surrounded by all the bridesmaids and bride dancing. She partied hard with them that night and loved every minute of it.
K, was not as outgoing, but she was very polite and sweet (AS ALWAYS!). Every time I glanced at her, her beauty just floored me. She is such a striking little girl. K tends to be a little shy, but this weekend she wasn't. When someone asked her something, she answered loud enough for them to hear and held her head up proud. (Man, I sure was proud) She is gracious and kind, always remembering to say "please" and "thank you".
It was a fun weekend. Weddings are special and even more special when you can be a part of them. I am sure that M & K will now start planning their own weddings. I guess their Dad and I better start saving now.
Here are a few pictures of my little flower girls.
And here is M with a new bridesmaid "friend"(Y&the R star) and another celeb that you might recognize from the movies. (I have removed their names because I have gotten SO MUCH traffic on my website from putting their names on here and that was a little scary)
M's personality really showed the day of the wedding. All dressed up in white and flowers in her ringlet hair, she was cutting up laughing and doing "magic tricks" for the bride and the bridesmaid in a tiny room as they waited for wedding time. She didn't show an ounce of shyness, as a matter of fact quite outgoing. After the actual ceremony the bridesmaids were sitting on the first pew of the church and M walked past them all and gave them high-fives, as if her "team" had won a ballgame. At the reception, I couldn't find her and then I saw her in the middle of the dance floor, surrounded by all the bridesmaids and bride dancing. She partied hard with them that night and loved every minute of it.
K, was not as outgoing, but she was very polite and sweet (AS ALWAYS!). Every time I glanced at her, her beauty just floored me. She is such a striking little girl. K tends to be a little shy, but this weekend she wasn't. When someone asked her something, she answered loud enough for them to hear and held her head up proud. (Man, I sure was proud) She is gracious and kind, always remembering to say "please" and "thank you".
It was a fun weekend. Weddings are special and even more special when you can be a part of them. I am sure that M & K will now start planning their own weddings. I guess their Dad and I better start saving now.
Here are a few pictures of my little flower girls.
And here is M with a new bridesmaid "friend"(Y&the R star) and another celeb that you might recognize from the movies. (I have removed their names because I have gotten SO MUCH traffic on my website from putting their names on here and that was a little scary)
Monday, November 10, 2008
A Family Wedding
My girls were in a cousin's wedding this weekend in Ponte Vedra this past Saturday. More to come (and more pictures too). Just wanted to share this sweet one today.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Friday, October 31, 2008
God Is So Good
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Scooping Out the Pulp
We have a book that we love reading this time of year. A precious aunt gave it to the girls last fall and we have enjoyed reading it so much. It is called, My Happy Pumpkin God's Love Shining Through Me and the author is Crystal Bowman. The book tells the story of a farmer carefully planting his pumpkin seed, watering it, pulling out the weeds, and watching it grow. Then the story tells about scooping away the "pulp and slop", throwing it away, carving the jack-o-lantern and putting in the light.
I found this book to be a great example of the way God nurtures us. How He carefully plants the seed, watches us grow, cleans out the mess and the "slop", and puts his light in us.
I am thankful for the simple reminders of how God loves us, takes care of us, and "scoops out our slop" to make us more like Him. And I am thankful to be able to share this hope with my children as we carve our pumpkins tonight.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Prayers for MckMuffin
I have enjoyed for months reading MckMama's blog. She is one incredible mom of beautiful children, "Big Mac", "MckNugget", and "Small Fry" and soon to be "MckMuffin" that is expected to arrive today. Baby Stellan (aka "MckMuffin) has had his MckMama worried in the womb as he has had some complications with an enlarged heart. So many people are praying for baby Stellan and his family...would you do it to?
There is a prayer vigil throughout the day that another blogger has set up if you wish to do that, otherwise, just whisper a prayer for them this morning if you could.
(And by the way, if you check out MckMamas site, be sure to check out how many people have used clever ways to spell Stellan. Pretty cool idea.)
There is a prayer vigil throughout the day that another blogger has set up if you wish to do that, otherwise, just whisper a prayer for them this morning if you could.
(And by the way, if you check out MckMamas site, be sure to check out how many people have used clever ways to spell Stellan. Pretty cool idea.)
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Wild West Day
Today is Wild West Day at K's school so she dressed up like a cowgirl. This is one sassy, trendy, princess cowgirl if I ever saw one (complete with tiara)!
Who knew cowgirls wore pink boots, fur trimmed sweaters and cowgirl hats with sparkles and tiaras??
Who knew cowgirls wore pink boots, fur trimmed sweaters and cowgirl hats with sparkles and tiaras??
Pumpkin Patch & Dairy Farm
Here are a few pictures of K's visit to the dairy farm and pumpkin patch, complete with a hay ride, picnic and corn maze. It was a beautiful fall day and K and I spent good quality one on one time together.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Cozy
Today is a very cold, dark, and rainy day in my area. The kind of day that makes it so difficult to peel yourself out of the bed in the morning and go about your normal routine and daily activities.
Most of the time when the weather is gloomy, like today, my emotions and mood seem to be gloomy as well. Not today. Today, I am thankful to have a day that forces me to be inside, snuggle with my daughter under a warm blanket and read a book to her, or to put on my favorite fuzzy socks that warm my toes. My house just seems so comfortable, cozy today. Today I am thankful for my house, and today, I am thankful for the inclement weather that forces me to slow down and breathe a little, soaking in the warmth of a home, the warmth of a snuggle, and the warmth of God's hands around my little family. Today is cozy.
Most of the time when the weather is gloomy, like today, my emotions and mood seem to be gloomy as well. Not today. Today, I am thankful to have a day that forces me to be inside, snuggle with my daughter under a warm blanket and read a book to her, or to put on my favorite fuzzy socks that warm my toes. My house just seems so comfortable, cozy today. Today I am thankful for my house, and today, I am thankful for the inclement weather that forces me to slow down and breathe a little, soaking in the warmth of a home, the warmth of a snuggle, and the warmth of God's hands around my little family. Today is cozy.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Not So Berry Sweet Today
My 2nd child, K, is usually very easy to please. She has a great disposition. She is a people pleaser. She has a sweet nature about her. She is usually so very obedient. I say, "usually" because today she shocked me...
We were just about to head out to get M from school, when K asks if she could have some strawberries for a snack. We were rushed, so I told her that she would have to wait until we came back home from getting her sister. Usually this would have resulted in her saying, "Ok, mommy," but instead it resulted into a little meltdown for her.
K: "I want strawberries!"
Me: K, you will have to wait."
K: Crying, tears, stomping of feet, "I want strawberries now. It will take too long!"
Me: "K, don't talk to Mommy like that. You are not being very nice....Watch Out."
(By now we were on our way, driving to the ever dreaded car pool line.)
K: "But I want strawberries! Turn around the car. I want strawberries!" she continued.
(I am growing very inpatient myself at this point)
Me: "K, do you want me to pull over this car and give you a spanking?"
(Pause)
K: "I wish your Daddy was here right now...I wish Grandfather was with us in this car."
(Oh, I know where she is going with this. She is wishing MY dad were here to give ME the spanking! And he very well might if he reads this post..)
Me: "Why?"
K: "Because I love him, that's why."
I think she realized that the ugliness she had been displaying wasn't getting her anywhere, so she was trying to turn it around to being sweet and loving again. (Finally, my old K back)
So about two whole minutes passed of quietness. No more tears. No more fussing. Ahhhhh...this felt nice. Peace. And then from the backseat...
"I STILL want strawberries."
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Time To Vent
Sometimes I wish that I had one blog that people knew about and read, and another that was a secret one where I didn't have to be nice and polite all the time. (Don't even try to pretend that you don't wish the same thing for yourself!) I have some venting to do, and given the fact that this is NOT a secret to many of my friends and family (including a grandmother) I will remain as sweet and polite as I can. So here goes:
About 4 weeks ago, let me stress that one more time...F O U R WEEKS! ago, we hired a contractor to do some minor home improvements. A new front door, new attic stairs, and what we like to call our "indoor deck" replaced with something other than an "indoor deck" (long story..and not the point). The job started off well. Demolition was a success, front door and attic stairs were replaced within a day or so. Now FOUR WEEKS later, we are still at the same point!
Case in Point #1..Our front door. Here is the door that has not even been painted black yet.
Here is the weather stripping for my front door LAYING ON MY BUSHES!!! I'm sure the neighbors are loving us right now!
Here is why I haven't been able to pull my car under the carport for a whole month! (again, neighbors must think this looks good!)
Here is the kicker: We haven't heard from our contractor in over a week! We have tried to call on several occasions. My husband has gone by his shop many times and nothing...no returned calls, no showing up at my house. We have gone from angry to concerned, and back to angry! Furthermore, the majority of his tools are in my house or in my carport. I guess that's the bright side..we might could sell his tools to finish our job if he doesn't show up in a couple of days. The obvious downside is that I have a really big mess around my house and I'm sick of it!
I vow to you, if I find out this guy has skipped town with a good chunk of my $$ and is now drinking margaritas in Mexico on a sugar sand beach, I will not be polite ANYMORE!
UGHHHHHHH!!!! SO THERE YOU HAVE IT! Thanks for letting me vent!
(I don't feel much better though. Maybe it's because everything is STILL a mess!)
About 4 weeks ago, let me stress that one more time...F O U R WEEKS! ago, we hired a contractor to do some minor home improvements. A new front door, new attic stairs, and what we like to call our "indoor deck" replaced with something other than an "indoor deck" (long story..and not the point). The job started off well. Demolition was a success, front door and attic stairs were replaced within a day or so. Now FOUR WEEKS later, we are still at the same point!
Case in Point #1..Our front door. Here is the door that has not even been painted black yet.
Here is the weather stripping for my front door LAYING ON MY BUSHES!!! I'm sure the neighbors are loving us right now!
Here is why I haven't been able to pull my car under the carport for a whole month! (again, neighbors must think this looks good!)
Here is the kicker: We haven't heard from our contractor in over a week! We have tried to call on several occasions. My husband has gone by his shop many times and nothing...no returned calls, no showing up at my house. We have gone from angry to concerned, and back to angry! Furthermore, the majority of his tools are in my house or in my carport. I guess that's the bright side..we might could sell his tools to finish our job if he doesn't show up in a couple of days. The obvious downside is that I have a really big mess around my house and I'm sick of it!
I vow to you, if I find out this guy has skipped town with a good chunk of my $$ and is now drinking margaritas in Mexico on a sugar sand beach, I will not be polite ANYMORE!
UGHHHHHHH!!!! SO THERE YOU HAVE IT! Thanks for letting me vent!
(I don't feel much better though. Maybe it's because everything is STILL a mess!)
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Sensei T
Big sisters can be so mean sometimes. The other night, apparently, M had been telling her little sister, K, about burglars. As I tucked K in bed, she informed me that she was scared of burglars. She asked if we had burglars in our town. I somewhat dodged the question, so as not to add to her fears, and so I told her that God would protect her and so would her daddy. She seemed comforted enough, so I turned out the lights, gave her a kiss, and was leaving her room when she said, " Mommy?"
me:"Yes, honey?"
K:"Does Daddy know Karate moves?"
me:Smile, giggle...."Yep, he sure does. You have nothing to worry about, I promise."
I know it's wrong to lie, but sometimes you just have to go along with it because it's so darn cute! Especially when they think their Daddy is a strong, karate master, "can do anything" kind of guy. I love it that they see their dad so strong and mighty...and he IS, even IF he doesn't know "karate moves."
me:"Yes, honey?"
K:"Does Daddy know Karate moves?"
me:Smile, giggle...."Yep, he sure does. You have nothing to worry about, I promise."
I know it's wrong to lie, but sometimes you just have to go along with it because it's so darn cute! Especially when they think their Daddy is a strong, karate master, "can do anything" kind of guy. I love it that they see their dad so strong and mighty...and he IS, even IF he doesn't know "karate moves."
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
25 things to describe my Dad
intelligent
loving
thoughtful
considerate
funny
loveable
patriotic
forgiving
dominant
loud
proud
compassionate
lawyer
friend
speaker
democrat
bulldog fan
hero
politician
advisor
provider
son
grandfather
husband
..and best of all...FATHER.
I love you Dad. Happy Birthday. You are an not only an inspiration, but also a great contributor of my joy in life. You mean the world to me.
loving
thoughtful
considerate
funny
loveable
patriotic
forgiving
dominant
loud
proud
compassionate
lawyer
friend
speaker
democrat
bulldog fan
hero
politician
advisor
provider
son
grandfather
husband
..and best of all...FATHER.
I love you Dad. Happy Birthday. You are an not only an inspiration, but also a great contributor of my joy in life. You mean the world to me.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Future Neurosurgeon or Botanist
The following was told to me today by K's little neighbor friend. Now, she is only five, but this might give us some clue to why our education system is the way it is today. Oh my....these kids are the future of tomorrow:
"Do you know who Johnny Appleseed was? He was, like, the first guy on the planet...ya know,like, when there were only leprechauns and Indians and stuff? And he is the one who made the apple. We got to wear these things on our heads at school to celebrate his birthday....Man..that was so cool."
I think she is a little confused.
"Do you know who Johnny Appleseed was? He was, like, the first guy on the planet...ya know,like, when there were only leprechauns and Indians and stuff? And he is the one who made the apple. We got to wear these things on our heads at school to celebrate his birthday....Man..that was so cool."
I think she is a little confused.
Monday, September 29, 2008
J's 1st Year
Here is a little montage of pictures celebrating J's 1st year
(you will need to go to the bottom of the page to turn off my music player before viewing.)
(you will need to go to the bottom of the page to turn off my music player before viewing.)
A Birthday Boy!
I realize that I am a day late posting this, but NO, I did not confuse his birthday for today! We celebrated and had a little party for little J and it was just to hectic to post yesterday, so here are some pictures of my little one year old angel boy. If only you could hear him laughing!
Happy Birthday my sweet boy, my precious gift. You melt my heart!
Happy Birthday my sweet boy, my precious gift. You melt my heart!
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