"The Lady Of The House Speaking.."

And the Word Is....

2012-01-11T23:17:00.000-05:00

It's that time again faithful 'Lady of Da' House' readers (thank you to all 3 of you!), that's right, it's time for my Word of the Year. The word will become my key word that I hope will inspire me over the next 12 months.
Before going forward however, just a quick reflection on how I did with last year's word. My word for 2011 was "Do". I have to admit that I did do a lot last year, but not necessarily everything I listed. The boys room does now have a desk and shelves. Check. I did do a major cleanout of the playroom. Check. I did go through the mini dresser in my room, but since we couldn't afford to replace it, it's still there. Half check. Work on ministry... well, I did create business cards and a blog, but didn't get much further. Half check. I GOT A JOB - big ole' CHECK! I will give myself a B for the year. That may be a bit generous.. but that has to do with this year's word.

Drum roll please......

My word for 2012 is - HEALTHY

1. Physically Healthy (Of course we all go to this meaning of the word when we hear it)
     * Make healthier food choices. (more fruits & veggies, less processed foods, vitamin)
     * More physical activity (2-3 x wk) & more sleep (min. 7 hours)
     * The focus isn't on weight loss - but health. Weight loss will most likely be a nice benefit.
2. Healthy Relationships
     * Spend more time with my family (date night with the hubs at least once a month, family devotions,
       uninterupted mom-son time daily, 1week vacation & 3 weekends away)
     * Friendships that are an equal give and take - encouraging, edifying relationships.
     * Spend regular, quality time with the Lord. (min. 1/2 hour quite time daily)
3. Healthy Ministry
     * Prayerfully consider what God is calling me to. Say 'yes' to it and give it 100%.
     * To what I do not feel God is calling me to, say "no" and mean it.
     * It's healthy to share - so I will share Christ with people. Incidentally, do you know Christ as your
       Savior? Yes, I'm talking to you... If not,and I know you, I'd love to have you over for a cup of tea
       and some fresh baked cookies and have a nice chat. (If I don't know you, leave me a comment
       and I'd love to share Christ with you)4. Healthy Thinking

     * I'm thinking of Philippians 4:8 - Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever
       is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or
       praisworthy, think about such things.
     * I will not let what other's think about me determine how I feel about myself. Psalm 139:14 ... I am
       fearfully and wonderfully made.

I have notes that go far more into detail, but I don't think it's too healthy to obsess over excessive details. :)

What are your goals for 2012?
Whatever they are - I wish you a happy, healthy and richly blessed new year!!!

Cry

2011-11-30T22:14:00.001-05:00

Do you ever feel like you could just sit down and cry?

Nothing is wrong. You're not sick. You just feel your stomach in knots and a tightness in your throat from holding back tears that trying to work their way out.

I've been feeling like I'm spread thin and that I'm not giving 100% to anything.

Work is going well. But I have my own way of doing things that isn't the same as others who had my job in the past. They all did a fabulous job, but I'm not them and can only do things in the way that's right for me. I ran into an issue a week ago and I had someone not connected with the situation call me yesterday and tell me that I just have to deal with it. Frustrating and now I think a few folks aren't thrilled with me... Hate to be disliked. Bluck!

I've been cleaning out old toys and baby/toddler gear. It makes me so sad. I LOVE my boys!!! I just always thought I'd have three kids, I feel like there's a piece of the puzzle missing. But my feelings are just wrong. It wasn't God's plan for us to have three so I need to count my blessings and move on and accept my little men are getting older - that's how it goes.

I'm working, and yet money is still always so tight. I'm sick of having to squeeze a dollar till it squeaks. I'm tired of having to plan things down to the last dollar. I'm sick of having to buy crap food because the fresh produce costs so much more. I hate that I can't get my kids what they really want for Christmas (although, we are so vastly blessed and they are getting plenty). I've never had aspirations of being rich, but just being able to pay my bills without concern and not having to wear sock with holes in them would be great.

I miss my mum! I could tell her how I felt and she'd call me her 'little love' and she'd say 'come here my little babe and let mum love you' - yes, even at 40 that's what she'd say to me and then give me a big hug and let me rest my head on her shoulder for a bit. She was the one person in the world who was in my corner no matter what! My husband is awesome, but it's not the same. It gets me too that I'll never have a mother-daughter relationship again. I miss her desperately..

I feel like there are a lot of people who don't like me. Boo hoo, I know. But it hurts my wittwle feewing.

Oh, and fat??!! I'm sure I've gained back all that I lost a year and a half ago. I haven't been brave enough to get on the scale, but all of my clothes are tight, or just don't fit and I feel yuck. Why do I keep yo-yoing? Why can't I make a life change for good?

I don't think anyone reads this blog any way so I'm venting.
Sending my rants into the great big void in hopes that it will be cathardic and I'll feel better when I'm done.

Just feel like I wanna cry.
But this too shall pass.

Should I Wait Until B.F.?

2011-11-07T22:24:00.000-05:00

"Are the sales on Black Friday always the best deal of the season?"

In a word, 'no'.

Don't assume that everything will be at it's lowest price on Black Friday. If you're looking to keep those purse strings pulled pretty tight this year, it will be worth it to take 20 minutes a week from now going forward to look at the weekly sales flyers.

If you're looking for board games for instance, right now is a great time to get them. For the past few years Toys R' Us have been having their big game sale prior to Black Friday. I think last year's game sale was better than this year, but thankfully, last year was my year to buy all of my nieces and nephews (and my boys) games. There was a game one of my nieces wanted that I picked up for $15 that for the rest of the Christmas shopping season never came below $22 again.

Even if you cancel it on December 23rd, go ahead and sign up at your favorite store's site to have their weekly circular sent to your inbox. Sit down to paruse the circulars with a nice steamy mug of coffee and by the time you hit the bottom you'll have determined if there is an item or two, or three or four that you can purchase now at a better price than on B.F. Don't forget to sign up for the B.F. scans.

Next post: "Not your typical place to buy Christmas gifts"

Christmas giving - Part I

2011-11-06T23:35:00.000-05:00

We have lots of people on our Christmas list to buy for. To be honest, as much as I enjoy giving gifts, the amount of presents we want to give verses the amount of money in the bank stresses me out and steals some joy out of this holiday that's really about celebrating the ultimate gift, Jesus.

For years I have been putting on the ole' thinking cap to get the best deals and searching for creative ways to get the most for our dollar so that we not only have happy gift receivers but also a gift giver that's not stressed to the max. Over the next few posts I will share some of the observations I've made and some creative gift giving ideas.

Today's tip isn't really much of a secret to anyone, Black Friday. I've been a Black Friday shopper for years, since before I had children. Over the years I've learned a few things.

1. You don't have to wait until Thanksgiving to see what great deals there are to be had on the next day. You can go to BlackFriday.com and sign up to receive notices to your email when each B.F. flyer is scanned and listed on their site. There are a few up already, such as Kohl's. They will also list other special sales leading up to the biggest shopping day of the year.

2. When do you go? We've all seen the horrible clips on the evening news follow B.F. showing the throngs of bargain shoppers rushing into a store as the doors open like they think their in Madrid running from the bulls. I remember a few years ago a man actually got trampled to death at a Wal-Mart. Listen, I don't care how cheap those flat screen tvs are, that's never going to be a good enough reason to act like a lunatic and hurt people. The first few years I did go as the doors opened (back then it was 5:00 am) but soon learned that people tend to be rude (pushing, shoving, hitting you with their cart, etc..) and that everything doesn't go in those first few minutes. Sure, if you're looking for the hottest item and the sales flyer says that they'll only have 5 of that item in stock, you'll need to be one of the first in line to get the item. Ask yourself, 'how bad do your really want it?' before putting yourself out there. I suggest getting there about 20 minutes to a 1/2 hour after they open. Other than the extream items (as mentioned above) the other sales items will still be on the shelves and the people who think they've entered the hundred yard dash are now making their way back to their cars. Sure, it will still be crowded, but your chances for bodily injury will have decreased dramatically.

3. "They open at midnight, but the really hot item isn't being offered until 5:00 am.. What should I do?" I faced this last year. I wanted to get the game system that was on sale for a great price at Wal-Mart at 5:00 am. They opened at midnight and there were other items I wanted. I thought I'd arrive at 4:30 and get in line for the DS and then pick up the rest of the stuff I wanted (pj's, DS games, etc...) So, I waited in line in the automotive department and got the DS, but when I went to get the rest of the items on my shopping list, everything was so picked over and they had even sold out of things. Going forward I'd suggest either going at midnight and get everything you want and then come back for the 5:00 am items, or get there at 3:00 am and stay till you have everything you want.

4. Ok, this one isn't a tip to save money, it's more like a public service announcement. We all know that those out on B.F. whether it be at mindnight or 5am are sleepy. It's great to go in sweats. Go ahead and throw your hair in a clip. No need to fuss with make up. But please, please, take one minute before heading out the door to brush your teeth. I swear I almost passed out in line last year with the two bffs in front of me discussing their purchases and where to go next. And why did it seem every word they had to say began with an 'h'. Just sayin'....

5. Have a plan. Check out the flyers and try to make as few stops as you can. Each store has special items for sale during a specified window of time. It's hard to hit Target, Wal-Mart, Toys r' Us, Kohl's, Sears, etc... all before the early bird specials are off the tables. Figure out where you'll save the most money. Also, don't forget that Wal-Mart will price match!! Oh ya baby, bring those sales flyers with you. No, the shoppers behind you may not love you for holding the line up and extra minute, but tough, they didn't brush their teeth so that's what they get.

Next time.. "Are the sales on Black Friday always the best deal?"

Two and a Half Minutes

2011-11-02T19:32:00.001-04:00

Lately I've noticed that I'm finding myself either loving or hating commercials. Here are some that I adore and others I find a big fat bore!

LOVE:

1. Volkswagon commercial with the little boy dressed as Darth Vadar. Having two boys I especially appreciate the magic of this commercial. I get so excited for the little guy when the car starts, I can just picture how my boys would react. Who am I kidding, my husband gets as much delight from this commercial as my sons. It's fabulous!! I rank this commercial right up there with one of my favorite commercials of all time. (see #2)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R55e-uHQna0

2. We normally think of this song toward the end of November and in December but the folks at Stapels brilliantly used the Christmas standard, "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year" for their back to school ad campaign. This commercial came out before I ever had kids, but even so, I've adored this commercial since it first came out some time in the 90's. I love when the father uses the staplers like they are castinets and then goes gliding down the aisle on a shopping cart. Brilliant - just brilliant!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPIIMbG9R4w

3. Take that Starbucks! was the message being sent by McDonald's with their commercials featuring two guys who wanted to enjoy a good cup of coffee without all the pretention. "Now I can shave this 'thing' off of my face." (gesturing to the 'soul patch' under his lip) Lol - good fun!

4. Another favorite of mine is the Puffs Plus Pals commercials. You know the ones I mean; it tells a little story with cute characters in softened animation. I just think the commercials are so sweet - love them.

NO! NOT THIS AGAIN!

1. I know a lot of people love these commercials, but there's just something about those homeboy hampsters of the Kia car commercials that just creepy me out!! I find the drummer and the one sort groovin' in the car especially disturbing.

2. The modelquinns were bad enough - but no, no, not the songs!! Who writes the lyrics to the Old Navy commercials? One of the most irritating was the onethey had for their 'breezy blouses' set to the tune of "I Think We're Alone Now". "The breezy blouse is great for work or play. Can I have more whip on my latte?" Seriously?!! Ahhhh... Then they came out with their workout clothes commercial; "Don't jiggle it when you wiggle it." Oh my goodness, make the madness stop!!!!

3. Planet Fitness - 'I pick things up and I put them down' - I see this commercial and I change the channel. 'Nough said.

4. I'm cheating for #4; instead of naming a specific commercial or company, I am stating how much I dislike commercials that portray men as idiots, women as *itches and glorify bratty spoiled children. For the past week there have been commercials advertising Halloween candy and a few of the ads showed children greedily reaching into candy bowls and taking handfuls. This was supposed to be funny.. or cute. Well this translated into real life. On Halloween a little boy who was about 4 / 5 years old came to the door, I dropped a few pieces of candy into his bucket and then he reached over and took a big handful of additional candy. Mum and dad's response? They called out to him and took a picture and said 'that was so cute!' Seriously? I think it's rude!! Not the 4 year old's fault, it was mom and dad who were truly the rude ones as it's their job to teach jr right from wrong. But I digress... Wrotten commercials.

So what are the commercials you love or loathe?

test

2011-08-31T23:19:00.001-04:00

Check It

2011-06-03T13:07:00.000-04:00

Hi folks,
I'm getting ready for a new post about the kids.. just need to download some pictures first.

While waiting, why dontcha head over and visit my new blog:
My Time With God at the Kitchen Table

Please leave a note to say 'hi' and let me know how you like it. It's brand spankin' new, so if you dig it why not be a pal and become a 'follower' (in a good way).

Thanks peeps!!!

diane :)

A Windy Post

2011-03-07T07:54:00.000-05:00

I awoke in the early hours of the morning to the howling sounds of powerful winds blowing outside. The gusts were so strong not only were the windows rattling but the house in total was creaking as it was being assaulted by the wind.

As I lay there I couldn’t help but be mindful of all of the trees that fill our yard and neighborhood. Lots of trees. Lots of tall trees. Lots of tall rickety trees! A few years ago during such a wind storm my husband and I heard a very loud noise, one that we couldn’t really explain. He looked around and couldn’t see anything. A few minutes later while passing by our picture window however, he saw the cause of the noise. A mammoth pine tree just out front had toppled over due to a micro-burst and thankfully landed on another tree across the street sparing our neighbor’s house. The road was closed and after hours of work a team of men were able to take the tree down without injury to neither anyone nor anything.

My walk down memory lane was interrupted by another gust and the sound of something being shifted in the yard; I assumed the plastic playhouse. I began feeling a little uneasy and knew the thing to do was to pray and ask the Lord for His protection. I asked Him to keep us all safe, not only in my household but the neighbors as well and if it be His will that no one’s property would suffer either as I’m sure we’d be finding limbs littering our yards in the daylight hours.

As I finished praying and began trying, and I stress trying, to go back to sleep I knew that something was keeping me from returning to peaceful slumber. Although I had prayed and asked the Lord for safety I had taken that anxious feeling back. I had brought it to Him but didn’t leave it with Him.

It reminded me of James 1:5 although in context this is speaking of asking for wisdom and I wasn’t asking for wisdom or discernment, but for safety. Still though, I was asking God for something and we are told in the aforementioned verse to ‘ask in faith, without doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.’ It goes on to say that we should expect nothing when asking this way for we are double-minded. I love the picture of the surf, being a New Englander this is a great picture for me. The waves come to shore and then return to the sea, come to shore, return to the sea and on and on. When we pray in this was we come to the mercy seat of Christ and then return to the ways of the world. We go to the foot of the cross and then return to worry, doubt and sin. What a clear picture. I went to God and asked for protection and then went right back to worry. A wave of the sea I was and therefore could not fall back to sleep.

But thankfully, God did bring His words to mind and upon reflection I was able to pray with confidence knowing the God who can calm the sea and storm with just a word could easily provide protection.

Thank you Lord for the ultimate respite, the rest of faith!

Do!

2011-01-06T23:13:00.000-05:00

Do you have a never-ending to-do list?
There are of course the chores that are in and of themselves never ending such as dishes and laundry as we continually eat and dirty more dishes and wear our clothes and create more laundry to be done. Needless to say, we therefore all have these kinds of tasks on our daily to-do lists.

But how about things that are not 'in the norm'? Do you have an exhaustive list of things you'd like to get done and yet there never seems to be the time to get these tasks/projects done? I guess it is more acurrate to say that we do not take the time to get them done. We all make time for what is important to us.

I had an idea. I thought maybe if I were to put my 'to-do' list out here into the blogosphere maybe that would be incentive for me to get off my seriously well padded butt and stop making excuses. Maybe it would entice me to make the time to get these things done.

So here it goes!
My not-the-normal-day-to-day to-do list.
(not in any particular order)

1. Boys Room: Buy, paint (if needed) and hang shelves. Go through toys and sort out ones they don't play with/outgrown. Go through dressers..again.

2. Craft Room/Office: SERIOUSLY need to clean! This has become the 'catch-all' room. Boo to me for allowing it. Get everything out that doesn't belong in there! Sort through craft supplies and give away whatever I don't need and organize the items I wish to keep. Create files. Need to create spaces for Women's Ministry and Nominating Committee.

3. Bedroom: Go through lengerie chest. Chest in bad shape. Empty, get rid of everything I no longer use. See if it can be fixed up into usable condition. If not, get rid of it! Buy, paint (if needed) shelves for John's books. Throw away clutter.

4. Entry way: Goodness.. something needs to happen here. I've wanted to paint an accent wall ever since we moved in 6 years ago. Need to convince the hubs.

5. Playroom: Ok, this is a toughy. It is currently set up for daycare and yet I do not have any kids in my daycare. I need to wait until I know for sure and for certain that I'm closing my business. I will then need to go over this room and turn it from a classroom back to a playroom for our boys and suitable for our Cub Scout Den.

6. Ministry: I met with my pastor back in the fall about the prospects of me going into ministry. He was 110% in support of this, said it seemed exactly what God was calling me to do, seemed only natural. He suggested I begin working on a 'packet'. I need to make business cards, informational 'post cards', pamphlet. I need to tweak my talks I already have written and continue to work on those the Lord has put on my heart. Work on devotions and talk to a gal at our church who used to work for 'Our Daily Bread' publication to see what I can do to be published. Start sending out packets and talking to local churches to get the word out. Study, pray, study, pray!!! This could be what God is calling me to as a way to meet our financial needs too.

7. Get a job!!!

Ok, that's enough for now. This is plenty to work on!!

Now, if there's anyone out there reading, I could use your help keeping me accountable to these tasks. I'd greatly appriciate your ~~kicking me in the butt~~ encouragement and checking in time and again to make sure I'm working on these things. This all falls into my "ACTION" theme for the year too.

How about you? Do you have some out-of-the-usual to-do's you need getting to?

Mums & Daughters

2011-01-05T09:50:00.001-05:00

So last night I'm watching tv, excited to actually have a few good shows on (at least to my way of thinking).
First I watched the opening show of the new season of the Biggest Loser. I sat there thinking, "I wonder how I'd fare during the first workout of the series?" I remember back to my younger days when I was really into working out. I saw myself as I watched some of the contestants thinking back to the time I was taking as step class. Up. Down. Up. Down... run to the bathroom to throw up... run back.. Up. Down. Up. Down. like nothing had happened. But that was back when I was 20 or 21. It would be a whole other ball of wax now that I'm only a moderately active 39 year old. I'd like to think I wouldn't whine a lot though... I'd like to think that.
The show was good but as each episode must do, it ended with the first 'You're not the biggest loser' dismisal of the season. It was between a mother and a daughter and as typically happens in these scenarios, both wanted to sacrifice themselves to save the other. In the end the mother was sent home. When the results were final the parting words of the mom and daughter were heart felt and pulled at my gut. Why? It's just a show and I don't know these people.
There is something that upsets me that I don't share often and only a couple of people know these feelings I have for fear of judgement and for fear of 'Pollyanna'esque responses especially from those who do not know what it is to be in my situation.
You see, I lost my much beloved mum two and a half years ago rather quickly (5 1/2 weeks) to cancer. I miss her every day. My husband and I have been blessed with two handsome, funny, sweet, smart, wonderful boys whom I adore!!
But you see, I will never again have a mother-daughter relationship. This breaks my heart.

I originally posted more after this, but really, the last statement above says it all..

New Year ~ New Word

2011-01-03T10:17:00.002-05:00

It's that time again.. I can't beleive it.
2010 passed by so quickly and yet there were days I thought would never end.
2010 brought our first ladies retreat at church last January. It brought my first sucessful vegetable garden. A small car accident (but not a small bill to repair scratch). I saw my niece get married this summer and made my first stacked wedding cake. It was one of the most wonderful summers I've ever had; made wonderful memories with my boys! We went on our first real family vacation. I saw my baby head off to Kindergarten and my older son went to 3rd grade. It was the year my Uncle Kenny went home to be with the Lord. My husband and I celebrated 10 years of wedded bliss (well, bliss most of the time :) My Aunt Helen became unwell and now lives in a nursing home/rehab. It was the year I felt the Lord call me into ministry. I lost 40 pounds this year! There were ups, there were downs and lots of twists and turns.

Those of you who have read my blog for any time will remember that each year at this time I choose a word, or theme for the year ahead as opposed to making 'resolutions'. Before I write about 2011, I'd like to think back on my word for 2010. My word for 2010 was FIT. I wanted to 'fit' myself back into my life. I wanted to take myself off of the bottom of my to-do list. I ate better. Tracked my food on SparkPeople.com. I began to exercise (never thought I'd do that). I studied God's word on a more regular basis. I took some time, maybe not enough, but some time, for me.

Again, those of you who have been with me a while know that I grade myself on how well I think I did carrying out my theme and this year I give myself a B+. I'm pleased, not thrilled with my performance. I started off the year very well. By summer, I had slowed down quite a bit. By Thanksgiving however, I slowed to a snails pace before completely falling apart, but thankfully the holidays are just a few weeks from the new year so that mess was short lived.

So now it is time to unviel my word for this year. After thinking over exactly what I want in my mind for several weeks, God has finally delivered my word to me. ACTION! I want to be a woman of action. Woooow, that can sound.. suspect. Let me explain...

So often I think in my mind what I'd like to do. What I should do. What I could do. And yet, frequently, I do nothing at all.
I write lists that never get completed. I start projects that get left undone. I have so many people that I intend to write to and yet....
I've tried to figure out why I do, or rather, don't do these things and the best I can come up with is fear. Fear of failure, of not doing things 100% correct or maybe even just not as well as others.
Self talk ~ "I could write her a note but what if she isn't encouraged by it or what if she doesn't even know who I am?" (I wrote a note to a stranger years ago after hearing her father's prayer request on her behalf. She now goes to our church and she approached me on one of her first visits to thank me.) "I could try to write a children's book but what if it's no good and no one wants to publish it?" (Twelve publishers turned down J.K. Rowlings before one agreed to publish Harry Potter. Besides, shouldn't I at least give them the opportunity to refuse me?) "I feel called by the Lord to be a women's ministry speaker, but what if no one wants to hear me? What if they don't like me? Who am I to speak, I don't have a theology degree?" (Beth Moore doesn't have a degree in theology. Am I not short-changing God if I hear His call but think He doesn't know who He is calling?) "I could apply for that job but the hours probably wont work for our family or I'll most likely be terrible at it." (Who would have thought when I started a temp job when I was 24 that I would become a natural on computers and would then be promoted 3 times in 4 years? Why do I automatically think that I'll fail?)
God tells us in His word over 300 times to "Fear No", yet I've been choosing to disobey Him and fear. Why in the world do I choose the terrible feeling of fear and let it restrict my life rather than choose the security that as long as I'm living in His will He will provide? Silly, right? Right!

Also, the word action has come to me time and time again in studying scripture. In the early fall of this past year the Lord put a speaking topic on my heart having to do with action. If you say you're a Christian, you must take action! I have been writing my first retreat topic based on this. As I write it I find myself saying 'But who is going to want to hear it? You'll write it and then never share it." Wow - some seriously defeated self-talk hugh? Kinda pathetic!! If God is putting the topic of action on my heart, the person who most needs to let that take effect in their life is me!! How can I share it with others and not have it first take root in my own life? Action therefore for me means to stop being held back by fear and getting on with it; whatever the 'it' may happen to be at a certain time.

So this year I will take ACTION!

* I will continue to study and write the talks that the Lord has put on my heart knowing that He will show me when and where I am to share His inspiration. I will proceed with the calling the Lord has put on my heart and go into ministry as a women's speaker.

* I will write the children's stories that are in my mind. I will work on the illustrations and not worry if they will be good enough. They certainly wont be if I don't even try. I want to submit at least one book to a publisher this year.

* I will submit at least one devotional for publication. If God puts thoughts, stories into my mind that encourage me and some of the ladies from my church then I should see if He wishes them to encourage other Christians as well.

* I will put my body into action. I will continue to become a more active person. I will complete the couch to 5k program this year. I will find physical activities the whole family can do together.

* I will make/buy cards and have stamps available so that when the Lord puts someone on my heart who needs a word of encouragement, I'll be ready to go. No excuses.

* In general, I will not be held back by fear. I will not be recklace, but I will go forth and live my life and not wait things out on the sideline. I'm getting in the game folks so hold on to your hats!!

Ready, set, ACTION!!

"I AM THANKFUL" Challenge

2010-11-02T07:33:00.000-04:00

Reposting from my other blog: www.itst-i-m-e.blogspot.com/

Count your blessings, name them one by one,

Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

I have decided that from now until Thanksgiving day I want to post every day about something for which I am thankful and I'd like to invite you all to join me!

Are you ready to take the "I AM THANKFUL" challenge?

First, I want to let you know that I would like to encourage everyone to take the time to give thanks daily for all of the blessings in your life. However, if you'd like to be entered into the official 'challenge' and be eligible to win the prize I have listed at the end of this post, then you will need to follow the bellow instructions.

1. Become a follower of my blog.

2. Send me a message or post a comment letting me know that you will be participating and make sure to leave your blog address.

3. Copy the below image to your side bar and link it back to my blog.

4. Post about the challenge and begin blogging your blessings!

When you stop to think about it, there are millions of things we could post!! There are the obvious things that we're so thankful for such as our families and our health, but don't forget the things that we take for granted every day like indoor plumbing and political commercials. Ok, just making sure you were still with me! However we can be thankful that we live in a country where we get to vote!! (ok, that's enough of politics!)

I can't wait to hear how each participant feels at the end of this challenge. I can only imagine how good we'll all feel when despite what each day may bring, we've taken time all month to focus on our blessings!!

*Please feel welcome to join up until Nov. 5th.

Now it's prize time.

A few years ago my friend Michelle ran a crafting challenge blog and called me to asked me to make a mini-book of some sort for her challenge. I came up with the mini-book pictured here. The theme is obviously, Thanksgiving. I chose to use this book to write in holiday family favorite recipes, but it could be used for pictures or to write notes about what you're thankful for!! The winners will not look exactly the same, but it will be the same idea. I'll also throw in a Special K Chocolate and Pretzel bar that I posted about yesterday. Maybe another goody will sneak in too.

I will write down the names of everyone who enters the challenge. Then the weekend after Thanksgiving I'll pull a name. I will then go to their blog to make sure they participated all month, and if so, we'll have a winner!

Ok friends, I hope this helps us all get into a thankful state of mind!

And let me not go any further before saying, I am thankful for all of you!!!

What A Legacy

2010-10-11T00:07:00.004-04:00

Sitting between my sister closest in age to me and my husband I listened as God's word was read and folks stood up to share their special memories of my uncle. Tears of sadness and tears of laughter were intermingling down my cheek while a chorus of sniffles could be heard throughout the church.
In beginning the eulogy he was about to deliver, my cousin told us how he had run an off-color joke by his wife asking if he should say it in honor of our uncle at the service. His wife wisely advised him, 'not at church'. He then said he'd be happy to share it at the collation. Uncle Kenny would have loved that!
He then went on to the standard, "What can I say about.." But then what he shared next was anything but ordinary. For you see, my uncle was not an 'ordinary' man. As my cousin said many times, he was 'larger than life'.
The heart of his message was about the kind of legacy this 'larger than life' character had left to us. He was not a man who strove for wealth or status. He didn't care to brag or try to impress others with what he had, what he had done, where he had gone and so forth. He didn't spend his time trying to accumulate material possessions.
No, that was not him. He was about people. He befriended folks. He was the first to help anyone who needed a hand. He loved deeply; especially his wife of 54 years. And boy oh boy, he loved to make folks laugh!! His gift of humor was so much the more enjoyable because he was not one who needed to be mean to be funny.
What a legacy, huh? He gave wonderful examples of each of these points that caused a wave of nodding heads in the pews as everyone was able to insert their own personal stories in their minds to attest to Kenny's legacy.
We were then all challenged to think about what kind of legacy we are currently striving toward verses maybe what we would like to leave. Since my oldest son was 9 months old I have been a stay-at-home-mom. I have loved this life and wouldn't change it for anything! What a blessing!! But the truth is that there have been times, and times now when I've wondered if I had made the right choice. As bills get tighter and the 'bare bones' gets even more bare I think, "Shouldn't I just send the kids to daycare and earn some money so we can get new cars and go to Disney and buy the kids more toys and..." (Please do not misread this to think I am putting anyone down who has their kids in daycare. Every situation is different and what is right for one is not for another. This is solely my life experience and our situation, no judgement.)
But then I think about what we have been able to do because of this choice we made. I was able to visit with my mother regularly, especially once she was diagnosed with cancer. If I had had to worry about work, I wouldn't have been able to spend that time with her. I wouldn't have been there to share every moment with my boys like first steps, first words, school assemblies and help my son who was non-verbal until 3. I wouldn't have been able to study God's word so that I could be the coordinator of Women's Ministry at our church and lead Bible study and prepare for talks with the women. These are but a few of the things that I was blessed to experience by choosing a life far more valuable than money and possessions.
I pray that as life changes and God takes me down new roads that I will always choose as my uncle did to invest my life in people and not 'things', status or bragging. I hope I always remember to share a laugh, even at my own expense regularly with others. My hope is that my legacy will be one of caring, loving, hopefully giving a laugh to folks and pray that I'll be a light of the love of Christ and His faithful servant.
Listening to the eulogy, I couldn't (and still can't) help but think his legacy is a pretty gosh darn good one! I love you Uncle Kenny, thank you!

Now I'll pose the question to you.

What kind of legacy do you wish to leave?

The Things They Say!

2010-09-28T17:19:00.000-04:00

Just a few funny things my guys have said/done recently.
I hope they give you as much of a giggle as they have me.

1. 5 year old is standing on the top of the stairs just outside the kitchen back door. I'm in the kitchen folding laundry. Child tells (YELLS) to me that he has picked a 'wishing flower' (you know those things that look like dandilions but they're white and fluffy) and is now going to make a wish. In the loudest voice he could muster (and boy can this child be loud!) he bellows out his wish...
"I wish my mummy was beautiful!"
I LOST it!!!! I threw my head back and screamed of laughing with tears freely flowing.
My son looks through the window positively baffled. "Mummy, what's so funny? Why are you laughing?"
Without waiting for a reply, he looks back to his flower stem and then back at me and gasps, "Oh look! It worked!!" Mind you, this 'punch line' he says in a quiet voice, so all the neighbors must have been thinking, "This poor kid is sick of looking at his ugly mother."
Isn't that fabulous?!! I have had laugh over laugh over that one. Great stuff!!

2. 8 year old is playing a Star Wars computer game as I huff and puff my way through 3 miles of aerobics. When I stop and shut off the DVD player, son turns around and says, "How much did you do today Mum?"
I answered, "Three miles today."
Son - "Oh. Well I think you could have done better than that." said with the most dismissive of voices and looks on his face. But then again, he has every reason to critique as he sits there giving his pointer finger a workout as he protects the galaxy with the mouse!!!
Can you believe it? Too funny! He really is the sweetest kid though!

3. Playing "guys" with my younger son. I'm waiting as he assembles his Lego Buzz Lightyear. I make my guy say, "Hey Buzz, how come you're not put together?"
My son, oops, I mean 'Buzz' answers, "Well you know I always say I come in peace."
LOL - isn't that great!! I come in peace - like, I come in pieces!! I thought that was so clever for a little guy that only turned 5 this summer. Ahh.. they amuse me so!

4. Last Thursday I was gathering my notes together and son #1 asked what I was doing. I told him that I was preparing for the talk I'd be giving that evening for the ladies at church. He says, "Oh, and do you feel a little shy about being up in front of everyone?"
"Yes, a little." I answered.
"Wait a minute." he tells me. He then emerges from his room with a stuffed Spiderman tucked under one arm, a Serta sheep under the other and hands filled with Star Wars guys and plastic pirates. "Here you go Mum. I'll put everyone down stairs so they can be your audience. You can practice your talk in front of them and then you'll feel good for tonight."
How bloody cute is that??? See, I told you he is sweet.

Ok, that's enough of that.

Actually, no it's not. I have a video!
My 5 year old could not get enough of "This Little Piggie" for some reason the other day. Enjoy!!

You've Got A Job - Get To It!

2010-09-16T14:28:00.000-04:00

So there I was two nights ago sitting on my couch watching heavens knows what, for it really didn't matter what was on the screen as I was so wrapped up in my thoughts. I was consumed with thoughts of worry and self-l.. no, not that extream.. not feeling very productive.

I began to pray and ask God to give me a job or some more kids for my day care. "Please help me to provide for my family Lord. The cars aren't in great shape, the house needs some repairs, we are barely scraping by and I'm just so tired of job hunting and sending out applications and resumes with nothing in return." Then God spoke to me (yes, God is still in the business of speaking to us if we are quiet enough to listen). He reminded me that I already have a job. Several actually. I am to care for my husband, my children and my home. He impressed on me that those are the jobs that I am to see to at this point in time and that I need to do them to the best of my ability. He also reminded me that the second point of the talk I'll be giving in just over a week is how we can trust God's word. So am I going to trust His word, or not? The Bible says if He cares for the little sparrow, how much more does He care for us? If He sees to their needs won't He see to mine? Of course He will!! And how many times in the Bible does He tell us to "fear not"? Over 300 times!! I can't just say I trust, I've got to live it!

So up I got off of the couch and began to iron the clothes I had piled waiting for pressing. Then as the dryer buzzed I pulled out the next batch in need of de-wrinklization!
Next I headed up stairs (it's now about midnight) and made everyone's lunches for the next day and had hubbys breakfast out and ready for him in the a.m.
The next morning I got up and went right downstairs to get in my 2 mile workout before tackeling the morning routine with the boys. Once my little cherubs were out and on their way to school I then decided to tackle a project that I've wanted to get to and was inspired between last nights prayer jam with God and having read a great post by the Domestic Engineer. I cleaned my cabinets!
This was seriously labor intensive and not pretty. Below you will see what I was dealing with and what the end results were.

These are the cabinets above the stove and microwave. As you can see, this is a hodge-podge of market goods. Exactly why do I have sugar and salad dressing and rice and Rice Crispy Treats and Vinegar and... in the same cabinet?

Now this space is used for side dishes (mostly). I had found a box in this cupboard with approximately 3 grains of rice. And I was keeping that for...????

Unfortunately I did not snag a 'before' shot of this one. But let me assure you the spices were in sad shape. I found a bottle of celery salt that had expired in 2006! Better yet, my husband asked me why I threw it out?!!! Men! Please note the little bowl of meds on the top shelf. The Domestic Engineer had suggested keeping those meds you take at meal time in the kitchen. Brilliant!

Wow! This cluttered disaster is otherwise known as my baking cupboard. I am a baker. Love to bake. I am amazed looking at this now that I was ever able to find what I needed. I was expecting to find Whitey Bulger behind the light corn syrup (too much of a Boston reference?), but alas, the coast was clear and in code.

SWEET! Now I can easily access my numerous flavorings, theres a spot for my chocolate chips and a seperate container for nuts. My boys were super impressed by the extensive array of sprinkles!

DANGER! Enter this cabinet at your own risk!

I was frequently pelted with tea bags, overcome by an avalanch of snack crackers and occassionally knocked into dizziness (more than normal) by Pam!

Sniff sniff.. It's a thing of beauty, is it not?

Look at how elegantly the tea bags are displayed in the glass jar! Look at how the healthy cereals are lined up ever so neatly. It's been a day and still nothing has tried to assault me from this cabinet. Amazing!

My oldest son came home from school and noticed the neatened cabinets and then looked at the bottom ones. "Hugh. So when are you going to get to these?" Seriously?! I had best set this boy straight withing the next 15 years or so if he plans on getting married some day. Geesh!

The bottom cabinets will be next week.

So thank you again to the Domestic Engineer!! Please go visit her blog - she has some really wonderful posts!!

Unabashed Family Plug

2010-07-28T07:39:00.001-04:00

After a few years hiatus (sort of) my sister-in-law Paula is back selling Pampered Chef. I say 'sort of' because even though she hasn't been a consultant for years she has still been 'in the business' by assisting her director.
For those who don't know, Pampered Chef is a home sales company that sells amazing cooking supplies!! Paula's whole kitchen (ok, not the appliances) is Pampered Chef, so no one knows the product better than she! And (I still feel guilty using 'and' at the begining of a sentence! Hope Mrs. Peletier doesn't read this.) she is a great cook!!
So if you are in need of some kitchen supplies (baking stones, utensils, knives, hostess sets, etc...) please visit her site. PC ships direct to you, so no worries if you don't live in Maine.
Some of my personal favorites:
Pizza Stone
Cutting Boards
Mix n' Scraper (the best!)
Classic Batter Bowl
Stainless Whisk (another best!)
Small, Medium and Large Scoops
And although I don't own any (there I go with 'and' again... hanging head low) I've used their knives and they're great!!!
These are just a few favs.

Happy cooking!!

The Journey Of The Wedding Cake

2010-07-21T14:17:00.000-04:00

3 batches of Royal Icing were made.
Approximately 350 cornflower blue flowers were made.
About 350 wild rose flowers were made.
8 batches of buttercream frosting were made.
2 batches of lemon buttercream frosting were made.
2 batches of chocolate hazelnut buttercream frosting were made.
1 Large oval dark chocolate fudge cake was made.
1 Medium oval French Vanilla cake was made.
1 Small buttery yellow cake was made.
Small layer was sliced, filled with chocolate hazelnut filling and crumb coated with buttercream frosting.
Medium layer was sliced, filled with blueberry lemon buttercream frosting and crumb coated with buttercream frosting.
Bottom layer was sliced, filled with raspberry buttercream filling and crumb coated with buttercream frosting.
Cake, frosting, flowers, decorating tips, bags, coloring, etc... was packed up and taken to Maine.
Large cake went on board and was frosted and smoothed. Dowels were put in.
Medium cake went on top and was frosted and smoothed. Dowels were put in.
Top layer went on and was frosted and smoothed.
Cup cakes were frosted, put on top and flowers were applied.
Mini cup cakes were frosted, put cascading down the side and flowers were applied.
Royal Icing vines were pipped on.
Royal Icing leaves were put on.
I collapsed!

Eggs used ~ 18
Shortening used ~ 12 Cups
Confectioner's Sugar used ~ 15 Pounds

*For those who do not know, I made my first multi-stacked wedding cake for my niece's wedding.

The New Mr & Mrs

2010-07-20T08:05:00.001-04:00

This past weekend we had the joy of celebrating the wedding of my niece with family and friends. It was a perfect, allbeit HOT day and the bride was exquisit!! The whole wedding party looked beautiful and not only did the groom look handsome, but also cool-calm and collected.

Many happy tears were shed as we listened to them exchange vows, have their first dance, mother/son & father/daughter dances and so on. It was an absolutely delightful day and I couldn't be happier for my niece nor more pleased to welcome a new nephew into the family! We will even have the pleasure of having them over for a special dinner on their return from their honeymoon. Can't wait!

Still, my mind can't help but wander back to the days of the little girl who loved to come with me to plays, sleep overs and on shopping excursions. Every weekend she and my younger niece would head out on the same route - Dunkin Donuts, Christmas Tree Shop, Herritage House Christian Book Store and Dempsey's Village Barn. It really doesn't seem like that could be so many years ago.. but alas, it was.

Now as I hear my own boys having a light saber duel in the backgrounds as I type, I am reminded that this time with my guys is short. Before I know it they'll be heading out with friends and have no time for mum. Then it will be off to games and later to college. Then... there will be a girl. I pray even now that the Lord would be preparing just the right young ladies for each of them. Ones that would love the Lord, be kind hearted, faithful and true. Be good natured and funny. And I pray that I would have a wonderful relationship with them as my mum had with her sons and daughter-in-laws and as my sister-in-law, who is more like a sister, does with her new son-in-law and his family.

This post has taken on a different tone than I had originally intended. I guess I can't keep from getting a little sentimental. Another post will be required to address my original intent.

For now, I'll just say - Love and Best Wishes to the new couple. I pray the Lord will bring them as few trials as He sees fit, the grace and strength to stand together under them and remind them to whom they need to give thanks for the many many blessings they will enjoy!

I love you both!!

You've Got Mail

2010-07-10T23:18:00.000-04:00

I love the movie 'You've Got Mail'. It is hands down one of my very favorite movies!! (I must stress 'one' as I have about 10 movies that I could watcher over and over again.)

It's on tv as I type this. I began watching this movie that's like an old friend to me and at this 189th viewing it has occurred to me that one of the reasons I adore it so is that I can relate to Kathleen Kelly (the Meg Ryan character) on many levels.

To begin with, there's the obvious. Years ago I used to work for a school supply company first as a proof reader on their catalog, then as an assistant to the Project Manager of Teaching Materials and finally as the administrative assistant to two of the directors. In my second role I fell in love with children’s books - absolutely IN LOVE with them!!! I thoroughly enjoy a well written kids book and I'm complete transported by the beautiful illustrations. I remember the day I opened a box from Scholastic with their latest books to preview and reading 'Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse' for the first time! I'll never forget when I first saw the beautifully illustrated 'Rainbow Fish'. I have dreamed for years of becoming a children’s book author! I have many story lines written out... but that's as far as I've gotten.

So loving children's books as I do it is no surprise that I would love this movie about a small children’s book store that's trying to stay solvent. When Meg Ryan first opens the store at the beginning of the movie (after getting her pumpkin and tall, skim caramel Macchiato) and turns on the lights I fall in love every time!! How I would love to own a store like that! I would even adore being the 'story time lady' complete with pointy princess hat!! I watch it on tv and find that I just want to go into "The Shop Around The Corner" and sit in a chair with children all around and read a favorite story complete with "voices". (my boys love for me to give the characters in the books unique voices)

I can also relate in that when faced with a difficult situation/person she cannot call on the right words for the occasion. I am exactly the same! But then on the rare occasion that the words do flow freely, I am completely consumed with guilt and get no enjoyment from my sudden gift.

Kathleen has great trouble in feeling secure in her decisions and thoughts. Throughout the movie you find her pondering numerous things such as should she meet "NY152", does she love Frank?, why didn't he show?, should she fight to keep her store open, etc... I too have a hard time making a decision and then feeling secure about it. I also just find myself questioning my thoughts and feelings to the point of nausea... Is this just me or a woman thing?

There are so many terrific quotes from this movie that really hit home for me. While writing to her secret email/pen pal she says, "... I feel like a part of me has died, and my mother has died all over again." Having lost my mum to cancer two years ago I understand this statement. Recently I found myself forgetting one of her recipes (yes, I can look it up - but the idea of forgetting something about her is so hard).

Once Kathleen learns that a super store is coming 'around the corner' she begins contemplating what she does. She types this, 'Sometimes I wonder about my life. I lead a small life. Well, not small, but valuable. And sometimes I wonder, do I do it because I like it, or because I haven't been brave? So much of what I see reminds me of something I read in a book, when shouldn't it be the other way around? ....' Wow - this was totally lifted right from my own mind! I do feel that I'm held back by fear/lack of bravery. Oddly enough I was just discussing this with a girlfriend at church this morning. I want so badly to be all that God has planned for me but I allow fear to tie me down.

So as a result of all of these thoughts ricocheting through my mind like 5 year olds in a bouncy house, I come to you with some prayer requests.
1. Lord, please help my hearts desires to be what you will for me.

2. Please help me to not allow fear to have a hold on me but to embrace my freedom in you.

3. Give me the boldness to move forward with what you'd have me do. And if it should involve writing books (children’s or otherwise) please help the creative juices to flow and make it happen.

In all things - your will be done Lord. Amen.

By the way, may I also just throw in that I too love daisies. I must agree Kathleen, daisies are the friendliest flower!

As Kathleen Kelly would say ~ Goodnight great void...

Adventures of a Would-Be Gardener cont...

2010-07-02T18:54:00.000-04:00

First, here's a recent picture from my garden so you can see the progress. And, may I point out that all of my plants are living! Huge improvement from last year right there!!

Next, I have come to find gardening as a refuge. I love to be out in my garden!! Bending over weeding my little rectangle of the yard I feel quite peaceful. I often find myself praying, singing, etc... relaxed.

I started to wonder what exactly about this tiny patch is so relaxing to me. Rather than try to explain it, look at some of the pictures I took yesterday of the views that I see while working in my garden.

BEAUTIFUL!!!

The Adventures of a Would-Be Gardener II

2010-06-17T16:22:00.000-04:00

Wow - it's been a long time since my 1st installment!!

Nothing much new to report other than, they're still alive!! Well, most of the plants any how. I've pretty much given up on the potatoes. I'm still giving one of them another week or so....

Here's a picture I took a few weeks back. Looking pretty good. They've grown like ~~weeds~~ good little veggies since then. My, they grow up so fast!

Today I had to do something that I've been dreading. I had to move two of my tomato plants due to crowding. The tomato plants were all doing so well, but they were too crowded and I knew that it was going to become a problem. So today I moved two plants 'open' areas of the garden. (ie. I tossed one of the potatoes that didn't have any sprouts coming out of it and then I moved a sickly looking bean).

I dug generous holes and then put some good potting soil in. I then carefully dug up to tomato plants - still afraid that I could have damaged them in some way. Next I planted them in their new spots and gave them some water. Now I'm just praying that they'll take to their new neighborhoods!! I'll be so sad if they don't, but I had to do something.

I'm now a little disappointed that my garden is no longer symetrical and pretty. It's a little mish-moshed looking. who cares as long as I get some veggies, right?

Well that's it for this installment. I hope to report soon about some happy tomato plants that entered the relocation program!

Happy gardening!!!

Adventures of a Would-Be Gardener ~ Part I

2010-04-30T18:16:00.000-04:00

For years I have wanted to be a gardener.

Today I began my adventure of trying to plant a garden. I weeded, and weeded and weeded using just my flower gloved hands. I tried to retrieve some gardening tools. You may have heard that in fact. Around 12:45 today, did you perchance hear a loud shriek? You did?! Well that was me. You see I unlocked the shed and opened the doors to get my gardening tools when there to my surprise was a dead mouse set right before me. It's skinny little legs standing straight up in the air and its petrified tail pointing straight out as if it were the needle of a compass.

Upon setting eyes on the deceased creature I let out a blood curdling scream which scared "the whole life out of us". (Per my 7 year old son). "Why did you scream mummy? Why would you be so freaked out?" - "Because I'm a girl." I responded. "That's all the excuse I need." - "Well that sure explains it all right." (Sometimes my son sounds like he just stepped out of an episode of The Little Rascals.)
I decided as you might imagine that I really didn't need the tools. I could manage just fine using my hands!

Here's a picture of my little garden patch once the weeding was mostly complete.
Off to the store I will go tomorrow to buy some compost and soil laced with Miracle Grow as for this garden to succeed I will surely be needing a generous dose of heavenly intervention.

I have several things stacked against me in my quest for horticultural greatness.

1. I have no blessed idea what I am doing! I keep pestering my two gifted gardener friends for help and advice. They are quite patient and gracious with me as I ask them the same questions over and over again. Gardening is just not a natural gift for me. My mind is like a bucket with a giant whole in the bottom when it comes to retaining this information. I'm trying though - I'm trying!! At least, this is what my husband always tells me.

2. Hot sunny weather and I do not mix! I so wish I could be one of those 'outdoorsy' types. But alas, my fair English skin and my mother's constitution mean that I burn easily and can go from fine to debilitating heat-provoked migraine in 60 seconds flat! I can never be in direct sunlight, nor in heat about 82 degrees or higher for too long. This you can see is not conducive to gardening. Not to mention, in general, I have to live with people always making little comments about me 'not liking to be outside'. I get a little sensitive about it to be completely truthful. I always think those that make those comments are really thinking it has to do with me being fat - it doesn't! Even in my thinner days I could not deal with heat. Just how I'm made.

3. I never have enough time. Ugg... I hate saying that. Isn't that the lament of every American? None of us have enough time. We're all busy, straight-out, over-committed, spread-too-thin and whatever other phrase you'd prefer. But the fact is, gardening takes a time investment. But here's the thing. If I am willing to take the time to weed the garden, buy the seeds and plant the little suckers then I need to make the commitment to see it through, come what may. Have I commented yet on my past attempts? Not pretty!!

That's enough reasons for now - I'm sure further posts will bring my other gardening deficiencies to light.

Stay tuned for future posts about the Adventures of a Would-Be Gardener!

Sundays Revisited

2010-04-29T19:59:00.000-04:00

While growing up, Sundays always meant one thing, the big mid-day dinner.

Regardless of just how strapped for cash mum and dad were we always had a great noon time dinner on Sundays. By the time the clock hit 11 am great smells would be wafting from the kitchen. Despite all of the stereotyping of the rotten food from Great Britan, my English born mum was a great cook!!!

My particular favorite was her roast beef with Yorkshire pudding. Mum made THE BEST gravy ever!!!! I would drown the succulent meat, boiled potatoes, fresh green beans, corn and the Yorkshire in a brown sea of steaming rich gravy. I can almost smell it!

Last Sunday I made a mid-day meal of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. Although it was good and the Yorkshire came out great, it wasn't mum's. Especially not the gravy!!

Still, it brought back wonderful memories of mum in her kitchen. Here's a picture of the meal below.

I can never make gravy like you mum, but you did pass on the Yorkshire gene. I love you!!

Roast Beef, small Roasted Potatoes Brussel Sprouts, Corn, Mashed Potatoes and

Yorkshire Pudding in the middle.

April Vacation

2010-04-24T18:56:00.001-04:00

I cannot believe we are here at the end of April vacation. Didn't we just welcome in 2010? Crazy!!

As this week approached I made the decision that I was going to make it about the kids, not about getting the many, many, many projects done that have been on my to-do list waiting for the time and opportunity to tackle them. It was hard to not want to work on these things, but I will never regret the decision to spend some really great time with my men!!

Here are some pictures of a great week!!

On Saturday the 17th, we went with some friends to see Diary of a Wimpy Kid movie. Great movie! I love it when you not only know your kids are enjoying it, but you get to laugh along with them. There were definitely some moments that made me make a 'just sucked on a lemon' face - but hey, boys live for that stuff!!!

Sunday the 18th - I wasn't feeling so swell so the 1st half of the day was quiet. Then we all went out to run some errands, grab an ice cream and come home for a family movie. Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium. We'd never seen this before. It was very cute.

Monday the 19th - Gotta love those library passes!! We went to the New England Aquarium in Boston. The fun began before we even go there as the boys love to ride the commuter rail. Because it was a holiday and we were riding off-peak hours, they even got the seats with the table. Score!! The kids loved the aquarium although the smell of fish when the penguins were being fed was enough to make us run outside before my oldest one retched in front of everyone. I think their favorites were the jelly fish and octopus. We of course worked up an appetite and so headed over to Quincy Market where the boys enjoyed hot dogs! That night we had a den meeting where we worked on some of our electives and had a great time playing games!!

Tuesday the 20th - Friends came over in the afternoon for lots of running in and out, up and down the stairs and plenty of shooting sound effects! What was especially nice is now that the kids are a little older and we can watch them in our fenced yard through the window and door out back, the moms were able to sip some tea and have a nice chat. Ahhh... adult conversation!!! Then I made breakfast for dinner for all of us (my boys favorite dinner)! Pancakes, sausage, eggs and a yummy and healthy egg casserole for the adults. Wonderful afternoon and early evening! Then it was off to Bible Study for mum.

Wednesday the 21st - This day started with a trip to the library. We perused first the younger kids section, stopping to put together a few puzzles and play with some favorite stuffed characters, and then off to the big kids section to where my oldest son has graduated. He found the next Stink book in the series (don't you love these titles?) and then he selected some biographies as he loves history!! The little guys choose an alphabet book and a few Star Wars books that big brother said he'd read to him. (and he did too!) Later that afternoon we went to a friends house to meet up with a few families for a fun time out in the sun. We've had great weather this week!!

Thursday the 22nd - After dropping our little guy off to play with his cousin, we took our older son and nephew to tour the Adams houses in Quincy (during Adams time this was actually part of the town of Braintree for all of you history buffs). Due to it being vacation week, the tour was free!! (nice!) Another bonus, we got to ride the trolley!! The boys thought this was super cool!! You go to the visitor’s center and they cart you around from the birth houses to the 'old' house in the trolley. The tours were great as the guides are very knowledgeable and great with kids. (If you're in Mass., the Adams houses are a fantastic take, I highly recommend it!!).

After the tour we then headed back to my sisters where all of the cousins (that were there) played together outside while we watched and giggled at their comments. Then the boys had a sleep over at aunties!!! Mum and Dad went out for lunch then headed home to watch a movie together (The Proposal - cute).

Friday the 23rd - The cousins headed back to aunties house so the boys had playmates from an early hour. Dad headed back to work and Mum had a few hours to do some laundry, dishes, clean the bathroom and run to the store. Do I know how to have a good time or what?? But it was nice to get things done without feeling guilty that the boys were stuck in front of the tv or something...
Pick up in the early afternoon. We came home and made some cookies and played some games. Great afternoon.

Saturday the 24th - No soccer due to bad allergies for the big guy. Instead, we headed to the Boy Scout supply store to pick up a book or two for Dad who is the den leader. Then we went to see How to Train Your Dragon. Good movie, terrible popcorn. (To hear more on that, go to my it’s' time blog) The kids really enjoyed the movie; mum enjoyed all of the Scottish accents!! But allergies once again in the afternoon took their toll on the big guy and he's currently asleep in my bed.

What will Sunday the 25th hold? Church in the am and then Scouting events in the late afternoon and early evening.

All in all, a great week!!! They're only little once and we'll never get this time back. The curtains I've been dying to make for their room.... they'll keep. But now I have more memories to keep of our great week together!

movie pics: movieinsider.com

Missing

2010-04-09T11:01:00.000-04:00

I cannot find my motivation... Have you seen it?

By the look of my ever increasing laundry mound (something I am typically right on top of... not the mound, rather; there usually isn't a mound at all) it has been gone for at least 3 days.
Floors need vacuuming, sweeping, mopping. Shelves need polishing. Boys room needs.. saving! My craft/office is in dire need of sorting - *side note - why is it my room has become the "Gee, I don't know where this goes, I'll dump it in mum's/my wife's room." Family meeting clearly needs to be held on this. More raking needs to be done (ah, reprieve - it's raining).
All of this and here I sit blogging!

If you see my motivation somewhere, would you please kindly send it home?
I think I may resort to some strong java in the meantime...

Got Sucked In Again

2010-04-06T23:48:00.000-04:00

Have you ever got sucked into a show that you didn't want to watch? You know, the show you're not interested in that comes on after the show that you did want to watch?
For me, it's Parenthood. I really do not want to start watching this show. I have a few shows that I'm in to and quite frankly, I'm not looking to expand my repitoir at this time. I'd like to be exclusive with the ones I'm already seeing. That's just how I am folks, faithful.
So The Biggest Loser comes on from 8 - 10 pm and I totally love that show!! (so glad Melissa went home again this week! I hate all of the game play - just like to watch people transform their lives for the better.) For some reason however, I do not have the will power to either A. pick up the clicker and change the channel or B. just shut off the tv. The next thing you know, I'm into the next show.
I have nothing against Parenthood, it's funny and interesting, but I'm really not looking to add a dramady to my viewing schedule. I'm quite happy with Biggest Loser, American Idol, some Dancing With The Stars (not as excited with the cast of characters as others seem to be), The Office, Ugly Betty, Masterpiece Theater, Jaime Oliver's Food Revloution (oh, I so need to post on this great show!!), and Wednesdays With Beth (Beth Moore on James Robison show). I think this is more than enough! I don't even have time to watch all of these - I DVR some of these and it takes weeks to watch them.
So that's it Parenthood, no sucking me in! I do not have time to add you to my dance card. It's full. I'm done.

Stop Staring

2010-04-05T07:04:00.000-04:00

I'm a big night time snacker. I go between sweet and salt and then back to sweet again. It's a problem!

But for the past several months I have been making a concerted effort to make good snacking choices. So the other night I was in 'need' of a sweet something. I decided to have an Italian ice. Sweet, refreshing and only 100 calories (hmm.. should I have put this on my 'itstime' blog?...).

So into the kitchen I go. I grab my spoon, pull the icey treat from the freezer and head to the trash to peel off the lid and discard it. But once I took off the lid, I had a shock. My snack was looking back at me!!

I so wish this picture could do it justice!!

A Priceless Moment

2010-04-04T20:32:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, my oldest son came home from school and ran up the driveway as per normal after getting off of the school bus. He yelled out a 'hi mummy' as he ran past me and bounded up the stairs. He barely reached the top step when he started tearing apart his back pack.
"Mummy, I have something to show you!" he declared.
"What" I inquired.
"My report card."
We sat down on the couch together and went over the report subject by subject. It was a wonderful report card!
Once we finished checking out each 'grade' (still at the age of "S" and "S+") and we had discussed what each comment meant, I then began to hug my son and tell him what a wonderful job he has done and how proud I am of him.
He then said, "Mummy, I think I'm going to cry."
"Why my love?" I asked.
"Because I've made you so happy and because I'm so proud of myself."

Awesome!!!

Two Years

2010-03-19T12:04:00.000-04:00

March 16th was the two year anniversary of my mum's death. I can't believe it's already been two years!! I continue to miss her every day, and there are times I almost feel... guilty for going on. This may sound silly if you've never experienced this kind of loss. It's like, you feel like every day you live you should some how be honoring their memory.
I'm in a season of transition in my life. Any time I feel down about it (I HATE transition) I try to think about how these changes would in some ways make my mum so happy. My mother ALWAYS fretted about money. Not just for herself, but for her children. Hopefully God will be showing me the perfect job He has for me that will work well with my family soon, and the additional finances would make my mum happy. I try to think about that - hoping that would be honoring to her in some way.
I also feel that my mother's gift of love and affection has been passed on to my own family, and in that way too, her memory is honored.

Well, without further ado - below is the eulogy that my sister Kerry wrote for my mother's funeral. It was so well done that I feel it's the best thing to post each year at this time.

Thank you God for the gift of my mum. And mum, I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Our mother, like most mothers, was a very special person. She was warm and loving and funny. You often hear people say how those that have passed will leave a hole or a void. The absence of my mother will leave an abyss. Or at least, that’s how it feels.Our mother was a big presence in our lives. For us, she was truly the tie that binds. Over the past few days, I’ve found myself wondering how we will carry on without her. I know, of course, that we will, but the idea of it seemed inconceivable.But as I thought about having to face life without my mother, without my best friend, I realized how, because of her, we will certainly get through this terrible time together.My mother taught us many things, as most parents do. But three things we learned from her are perhaps the most important lessons for dealing with life.Naturally, she, along with our father’s help, taught us right from wrong. Through her example, we not only learned the typical rights and wrongs, but we learned the right way to be a good friend, the right way to care about others and the right way to treat the people that are important to you. And she taught us that it is right that family takes care of family. More than once my mother told me what a great comfort it was to her that if ever any of her children were in trouble or in need that we could turn to any of the other 4 and we would be a help and support one another.Another thing we learned from our mother was to love one another and to do so openly. More than a few people have commented over the years how affectionate my family is to one another. We always great each other with hugs and kisses and do the same again when we part. Well – ok – maybe Eddie and Mark don’t hug and kiss each other – but there is certainly brotherly affection. When we speak to one another on the phone, conversations almost always end with “I love you”, and “I love you too”. We tell our children and our nieces and nephews all the time how much we love them and how special they are to us. Something we learned from our mother.The last of the three important lessons learned from Mom, was to laugh at life – even if it’s at your own expense – which, in her case, it often was. Mom loved a good laugh. All of the Rockwood family loves a good laugh and we are never together that we don’t laugh a great deal. We learned not to take ourselves so seriously that we couldn't laugh at ourselves – something my mother excelled at. In fact, if she did something funny and there was no one to witness it, she would'nt keep her goofs to herself – she’d tell everybody, which is funny in itself.So, as I think of these things, I realize, though the void is sizable and though the coming weeks, months and even times throughout the years will find us mourning our dearly loved mother, we will as a family, get through it together.We will stand by one another. We will love one another. And we will laugh together. And in doing so, we will keep our mother’s spirit with us always.I hope that some of you will learn from my mother, especially to tell the people you love that you love them – and tell them often. Not because life is precarious and you never know how much time you will have together. Not even because it’s what people who love one another should do. Tell them simply because you DO love them.I know that we will pass these lessons on to our own children and grandchildren: To stand by your family and love and support them; To tell them often how much you love them and to laugh at life – even if it’s at your own expense. Oh – and to never, ever tell a child you have eyes in the back of your head.

Tag

2010-02-25T14:43:00.000-05:00

Saw this on SparkPeople.
If you read this, consider yourself tagged and update with your information on your own blog then link to me.

1. What time did you get up this morning? 5:45 to get my early bird son a bowl of cereal.

2. How do you like your steak? Medium well - especially if it's been marinated in Adolf's and then grilled.. yumm!

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? The Chipmunks II... obviously the kids choice!

4. What is your favorite TV show? Ugly Betty, The Office, love Master Piece Classics..

5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? I really do love New England, but if we're really dreaming.. I LOVED England. Maybe a summer home for a few months of each year.

6. What did you have for breakfast? Egg beaters, a piece of toast, hot tea and water.

7. What is your favorite cuisine? Italian (chix marsala, alfredo sauce, chix parm....), Mexican (not too hot and with lots of cheese!!), really... I love just about all foood. That's the problem!!

8. What foods do you dislike? When I think of German food I think of big sausages and sauerkraut ~ Yuck! Although they're also known for strudel - yum!

9. Favorite Place to Eat? In the kitchen. Oh, um, Betucci's and Bernardo's. Although I don't go to either very often at all!

10. Favorite dressing? Good Seasons made light by adding more water and less oil. I like it with either white distilled vinegar or balsamic and I use canola oil - nice and light.

11.What kind of vehicle do you drive? a mommy mobile (aka a minivan)

12. What are your favorite clothes? these days it tends to be whatever fits (which thankfully my wardrobe in growing by being able to incorporate things back in that I had once outgrown). My fashionista days are long gone.

13. Where would you visit, this weekend, if you had the chance? Disney World

14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full? depends, what's in the cup? Actually - it's a half a cup! I'm a realist.

15. Where would you want to retire? Small Town, New England USA

16. Favorite time of day? meal time ; )

17. Favorite literary character? Josephine March (Little Women) Love her boldness, sense of adventure and creativity!

18. What is your favorite sport to watch? Figure Skating (is too!)

19. How many siblings? 5 (2 sisters & 2 brothers.. I'm the youngest)

20. Favorite pastime/hobby? Writing, reading, crafting (various) - used to love to bake.. but I have now retired as the official taste tester of every batch of yummy baked goodness that comes from the oven.

21. If you had a night off to yourself, what would you do? I have a bunch of girl friends that I haven’t seen for a long time- I’d try to get together with them.

22. Bird watcher? don’t poop on me! I do like to check out what's in our trees. We get Cardinals, Blue Jays and Oriels

23. Are you a morning person or a night person? BOTH, very fortunately. It's 3pm I have a problem with.
24. Do you have any pets? Absolutely not, but I have two children that I have to clean up after.

25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share? hmm... I have just about finished creating my first web site. It's for my day care business.. stay tuned.

26. What did you want to be when you were little? Hawaiian. Seriously, I had asked my mother when I was 5 if I could have an operation to make my eyes look like the beautiful girls who danced on the Don Ho show (sooooo dating myself!!).

27. What is your best childhood memory? going down stairs in the wee hours of Christmas morning to bring mine and my sister's stockings up.

28. Are you a cat or dog person? If we are talking about other people’s pets, then both. For me to own, I'd go with a dog.

29. Are you married? over 9 years!

30. Always wear your seat belt? YES!

31. Been in a car accident? Yes - a few fender benders and one really bad one when I was 19. An old man pulled off of a side street with traffic coming in both directions. I was terrified to drive for years after that! Thankfully I only tore the tendons and ligaments in my ankle.

32. Any pet peeves? Oh ya. One of them is that I have so many pet peeves

33. Favorite Pizza Toppings? Mushrooms are my fav topping!

34. Favorite Flower? I love daisies, pale pink roses and peonies (Anna!!). My favorite bouquet (in case anyone is wondering) would be a mix of flowers and look like someone had just picked them from the English country side with blues, pinks, purples and a little splash of yellow.

35. Favorite ice cream? YES!! LOVE ice cream. Anything with nuts and chocolate and caramel and... great - now I'm salivating!

36. Favorite fast food restaurant? Never been a big fast food gal. Does pizza count? If so, Papa Gino's

37. How many times did you fail your driver's test? Zippo - I passed the first time.
38. From whom did you get your last email? The Christmas Tree Shops

39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? Could never enjoy myself maxing out a credit card. I'd just keep thinking of needing to pay it off. Now, if someone were to hand me say a hundred dollar bill - I think I'd go to Kohl’s to get some clothes.

40. Do anything spontaneous lately? Let me check my day planner....

41. Like your job? I'm a licensed day care provider that does a PreK enrichment program - yes, I like doing the program very much. I'm also a stay at home mom, which although it requires tons of hard work, I don't really think of as my 'job' per say - but I love it!!!!

42. Broccoli? Absolutely - love the stuff!!! But not raw.

43. What was your favorite vacation? My honeymoon cruise to the Mexican islands was great because of the company, but my favorite vacation of all time would have to be when I went to England at age 17.

44. Last person you went out to dinner with? The hubs - great time, great food! Don't do it often, so it's special the few times a year we go.

45. What are you listening to right now? Tom & Jerry
46. What is your favorite color? Periwinkle blue

47. How many tattoos do you have? I'm a blank canvas

48. How many people will fill this out? as many as would like to (if you do, let me know)

49. You're given $10 to spend within the next 30 minutes - what do you buy? A D&D latte, donuts for the boys and the rest on a gift card so my husband can get a coffee in the am.

50. Coffee Drinker? Occasionally - prefer coffee drinks (latte, iced, etc..)

I'm tagging: http://fromichelle.blogspot.com/, http://instaceyslife.blogspot.com/, http://rawsomeadventures.blogspot.com/2010/02/my-rawsome-adventure.html

Where To Start?

2010-02-05T11:30:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel like there are a million and one things to do and most tasks are of just about equal importance?
Then when you finally dive in, you begin one thing and get distracted with another thing because you realize you really can't complete the first task without seeing to this newly found task first? Does this sound confusing? If it does, then you get my current state of mind.

Then coupled with this overwhelming sense of "I've got to get stuff done!!!" you are also riddled with guilt because in order to get 'stuff done' it means that you are not interacting with your child. And this is your last year home with this cihld too!!

Oh - and then (yes, this is all going through my mind at the same time) what in the world am I going to do about work any way??? I currently am a licensed home day care provider that does a preK enrichment program (as opposed to full time M-F care, totally not cut out for that), but the kids I have this year will be off to school next year. Do I start to advertise to see if I can get any new families, or do I get and out-of-the-nut-house job? If so, what can I do so that I don't have to put my kids in child care? And if I must resort to child care, what can I do that will earn enough money so that I actually bring money home after paying for said child care. pant... pant... pant...

This my friends is why I have been having such trouble falling asleep at night! I've tried writing my concerns down on paper before bed (this has been suggested by friends and doctor), but it does not help.

But then I am reminded, as the beautiful hymn (His Eye Is On The Sparrow) says:
Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come....
When Jesus is my portion? My constant Friend is He
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Lord, help me to choose to not be burdend with worry, but to choose your peace. I ask you to guide my every step, and help me to remember that YOU are in control. Amen

Because I Love Him

2010-01-16T17:08:00.002-05:00

I'd like to introduce you to a very important member of our family. His name? Monkey Buddy.

Monkey Buddy comes with us on all trips to theme parks, museums and other large gatherings.

MB attracts attention where ever we go. People smile, point and sometimes, grimace and shake their heads. We tell him to not mind THOSE kinds of people as they just don't understand.

Do you know who does understand our good friend MB? Anyone who has ever, even for just one teensie tiny moment thought that their child was lost.

It happened to us once when our oldest was about 5. We were at the Children's Museum in Boston. We were on the elevator, not because we were too lazy to walk a few steps but because son # 1 was in a stroller. Up we were going when the elevator stopped to let someone out on floor #2. We were going up to floor #3. We were all there... everything was good. Then, just as the doors were shutting, our 5 year old went through the doors and they shut! It was the longest 30 seconds of my entire life! ( why'd he do that? He saw someone leaving and at the last second thought it was us.)
Instantly we could hear him crying in panic. We tried yelling through the elevator that we were coming. My husband bound through the 3rd floor opening and bolted down the stairs. Thankfully the floors are open so when we got out and started yelling to him, he could hear us. Some nice lady saw what happened and stayed with him until my husband got down there. For a while, I never thought I could take my kids to places like that again - I had been far more frightened than my son because I was far more aware of all that could of happened (but didn't, thank you Jesus!!) than he.

Another time at the super market after making new friends in the isles as we went a shoppin' (you know how you keep seeing the same people even if you're going in different directions?) we heard a mother's panic in the check out line. Our 'friends', a young mother with her 2 year old son and newborn baby, were a few people behind us in line when the mother noticed that the 2 year old was gone. The panic in her heart broke voice sent chills down my spine. "I know this feeling" I thought. This was a very rare occassion when I was actually shopping with my husband and both children. I told my husband - 'stay here with them!' and off I went.

I went running to the far end of the store yelling for Andrew and asking folks in the isles if they'd seen a small boy (everyone in the store was at a standstill as they could hear the mom yelling - even though they really didn't know what was going on. and... can I just say that Shaw's did NOTHING to help!!! they didn't have employees help, they didn't stop people from leaving the store - NOTHING!! and the manager was well aware of what was going on!). Finally an older lady said to me 'I did see a boy by himself down there climbing into a shelf' pointing down the paper goods isle. Ok - #1 - you see a 2 year old by himself and that didn't raise a red flag?! #2 - He was climbing on a shelf, and again...nothing?
Speaking of #2, when I got down to little Andrew, I do believe his reason for seperation was that he was at the age where he was about ready to potty train and wanted a little privacy if you know what I mean. I scooped the little man up in my arms and started yelling for the people at the end of the isle to tell the mom I had him!
By the time I got into the car, I just sat and cried. Not my kid - true! Didn't even know them (other than saying 'hello' and warning the mom that he was filling her cart with frosting) - true! But I'm a mom. I knew her terror!

So, Monkey Buddy.... Don't get him? Don't really care!!! It keeps my child safe in situations where he could become easily lost and I love my son just as much (read 1000 x more!!) as another loves their animal (I like animals too). So I will go on using our dear Monkey Buddy until age/behavior render him no longer necessary.

But I will say that as we were leaving the Museum of Science yesterday, a police officer pointed to us and said "Love those!! They make my job so much better. Thank you for using one of those lady!" So there scoffers!!!

Don't Make Me Go!

2010-01-13T19:24:00.002-05:00

Raising boys means that you sometimes have to go where you otherwise would never go.

One such place, the barber. (please read this as though I were Jerry talking about Newman)

I really dread going to the barber. I even subject the boys to my pathetic attempts at wielding the clippers in hopes of prolonging the inevitable next trip to ... the barber.

It all started about 5 years ago...

Picture it, townie barber shop decked to the hilt in Boston sport paraphernalia. In walks a mother with her 2+ year old son. Mother is prepared with toys and a drink to entertain young son. What this poor unsuspecting mother does not know, is that she needed to plan over an hours worth of diversions. One barber shop in town - you take a number like at a deli and an hours wait is considered pretty quick!
The moment she walked in, glances were exchanged between the men. Conversations are obviously being redirected. While woman struggles to keep child amused, more glances and smug smiles are exchange. Comments about wives, girlfriends and the 'inferior sex' in general are being tossed about as woman wishes she could body check the next beer bellied client from his spot - get child's hair cut done and get out!!
After what seems like an eternity in testosterone hell, their number is called.
Son is lifted onto the cute horse seat in preparation for the cut to begin. Mother explains to barber (again!) that son has sensory integration issues. (hate the sound of nails on a chalk board? imagine that all loud sounds are amplified and the annoyance you feel with that sound is multiplied a hundred times over and you'll get the idea of what it is to have auditory sensory issues.) The child wont freak out, but does squirm and wince. Mother assures barber that she'll be happy with him just doing the best he can - not worried about imperfections due to squirmy child.
Cut begins.... squirming begins (again, not crying or trying to get up - I've totally seen worse!) chastising begins... "Come on buddy - this is nothing".."Stop acting like a baby and sit still".. to the mother "Just tell him to not move his head"...
There's now an murmur through the shop that begins increasing in volume making situation even more unbearable....

This uncomfortable situation has been played out many a time over the last several years. Not always the same circumstances (son #1 has mostly outgrown sensory issues and now sits beautifully, although his eyes may be shut tight through a lot of it) but always, super uncomfortable.

I feel like I'm walking into the men's lodge and have no business being there. And I tell ya, I really don't want to intrude on their sports talkin, female insulting, crass humor bonding time!! But... the hubs wont take them....

So if it's not challenging enough to be the Ladyofthehouse (a challenge that I love 99% of the time)- I also have to be the lady of the barber shop too!!

*Note: There was another woman at the barbers today - but she doesn't count. This is because she was a size 4 blond with fake nails and heels on. Women who look like that are warmly welcomed into the barbers! Go figure! ;)

Too Funny Not to Record

2010-01-07T13:12:00.002-05:00

And The Word Is...

2010-01-01T21:35:00.006-05:00

2010 is here!

I was in bed last night by 8:40 (completely unheard of!) so I was not up to usher it in - but alas, it came anyway as it always does.

I've never been one to get greatly excited over the new year. I don't go out and party. Never loved the whole 'resolution' thing.. Didn't even like watching Dick Clark count down the ball in Times Square. (no offense to Mr. Clark)

Yet even with this, the older I get my views on this time of year have changed. The year seems to wind down in a series of celebrations (halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas) before it ends, welcoming in a 'fresh start'. I believe that is what most people find so attractive - the idea of a 'fresh start'. Let's face it - even as adults there are times when we'd like a 'do-over' - but alas, that can not happen. So what's the next closest thing? How about a new year?

You open your new calendar and all of the squares are blank. What will you choose to fill the boxes in with - and what will be chosen for you? What plans will you make? What surprises do these days hold in store? What trials may come? What great joys shall over flow your cup?

Many things we can not control - but as I've said once and I'll say yet again - our attitude is one thing that we can at least attempt to control.

So - to that end, I have thought and thought, and prayed and thought, and bit my nails (I haven't bit my nails since I was a child), and ate some chocolate, and thought and ate more chocolate and drank cup after cup of tea and finally... I was stuck on 2 words. Which would become my 'theme word of the year'?

drum roll please.......

FIT

As with all of my 'words of the year', this too has many meanings.

Of course your first thought may be "yea, yea, you wanna lose weight like everyone else" - and while there is some truth to that - FIT is representing so much more for me.

When considering this word for me theme - I went to visit my dear friend Mr. Webster to consult with him. Here is what he told me:

1. adapted to an end or design; suitable by nature or by art. acceptable from a particular viewpoint (such as morality)

2. put into a suitable state, to make ready. being in such a state as to be or seem ready to do or suffer something.

3. sound physically and mentally

So now that I was equipped with the exact meanings of my theme word - I am now ready to apply it to my life this 2010.

1. My faith is of tremendous importance to me! I feel however, that I am frequently trying to 'squeeze God in'. This is not 'acceptable'. I need to make God 'FIT' into my life and make my faith life "FIT". Weather it be a whole chapter or section of a study or simply one verse from the Psalms, I know that I must begin each day with God's word. It is the only thing in this world that is unchanging and without error! For all else to go right in my life - I must make my faith FIT.

2. 'To put into a suitable state"??? are you kidding? I could write out a whole list that would take an entire roll of Charmin to record it all! But rather than an exorbitant amount of time detailing all areas this applies to - I'll just write a few key areas: my business, my educational/career goals, finances, the kitchen, my office, etc... I'll take them one task at a time and FIT them into my schedule as to make them a priority in my life - without stressing myself out so much that I become unFIT. :)

3. Lastly - 'physically and mentally FIT'. I have already taken a few steps to begin my journey down this road. On many levels, this will be the hardest application of my theme word. But once again - although I will FIT time in for me, to take better overall care of myself, I will take this one step at a time. Offering praise for each victory and humbling myself to ask for help when I need it.

This will be a journey my friends - an uphill one at that at times.

To help me on my journey, and maybe you as well, I will be starting a new blog entitled

"It's Time" - my journey to a better me".

It will be raw and honest. It will help me to face the reality of situations seeing it in type.

Will I still have this blog? YES! Here is where I will still blog about my everyday happenings and observances about life, faith and what seems to be very frequent in my topics - my boys.

The other blog I will post to a minimum of once a week to track my journey and share what I'm going through - what has worked for me - and what isn't.

Well my friends - Happy New Year to you!

I pray that whatever 'resolutions' - 'goals' - or 'themes' you've set for yourself will be a great success!!

God Bless

Did I Have Order in 09'?

2009-12-27T15:50:00.002-05:00

My Mum always used to say, 'the older you get, the faster time goes.' Mum, you were right!

It seems as if we just began the year 2009 and yet here we are about to say goodbye to it and greet 2010.

Before I look forward to the new year, I always like to look back. What have I done, accomplished, experienced.... I love history. I feel the best way to prepare for the future is to look back and see what worked and what did not.

I have had some success' over the past 12 months as well as some less than stellar results. But that's life, isn't it?

Beginning a few years ago, I started coming up with a theme word for my year. I take this quite seriously and really reflect and see where I need to go.

For 2008, my word was 'Simplify'. I started the year well with this goal, but the passing of my much beloved mum made this goal seem very unimportant.

For 2009 my word has been 'Order'. So, how have I done?
Let's start on an up-note shall we... I did get many things organized! My closets for instance (which I had shared in a fall post). I went through the hall, linen, boys and my closets and cleaned them out completely! Got rid of the excess (including about 6 pairs of black velvet shoes... why? really..) and created space for everything that legitimately needs to be stored.

I also cleaned out the cupboards and drawers in the kitchen. I wish I could tell you that it has all stayed Martha Stewart standard condition. but alas..

I organized my child care folders and files and began a lesson plan book so that hopefully I will cut down on the work I have to do in years to come.

These have all been great accomplishments!

When it comes to my calendar, I have had minimal success here. I did go through the calendar and mark off family days, date nights and the like - but to my dismay, there are things that we can not just dismiss. How dare the Boy Scouts for instance not check with our calendar prior to scheduling community events. :) I also forgot to write in all of the family birthdays. Typically, I do this at the beginning of January, but this past year for some reason I only filled in the birthdays for the first few months of the year. This proved to be problematic as I am the one who reminds my husband of his family's' birthdays - so if I mess up... oops! Sorry to any we called a day late this year!!

Spiritually, again I did so so. Rather than a basket, I have turned a brown and pink tote bag I received at a Women of Faith conference I went to a few years ago into my worship center. In it I keep a Bible (I use more than one when I'm really studying a topic/passage - but no need to carry them all around), notebook for taking notes at studies, devotions and I also use it as my prayer journal, pens, etc.. This has worked well. I have also been blessed to begin a new study with the ladies at my church that will run year round, Foundations. I wish I could report that I have been unfailingly devoted to my daily devotions, but I must honestly tell you that I still struggle to spend quality time with the Lord daily. Thankfully, He never gives up on us!!

As for having order in my physical life..... I have not tracked my food. I have not made time for exercise. I have honestly earned an 'F' in this category.

So all in all.... I would give myself a 'B'. But in saying that, should I really be grading myself on life? Wow - that a whole new level of pressure. Forget that. Let's just said I did ok.

Now, are you ready for my word for 2010?

That's another post.

Do you have goals for 2010 or a theme word? Share.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T19:31:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas my friends!

This is not only my first post in quite some time, but also, my first post from my new lap top my husband gave me for Christmas. Thanks!

I have had many 'Oh, I've goooooot to blog about this!' moments - but not the time to tap them out.

For the time being, I'd like to just blog about today.

Some great moments:
1. My boys were told that they couldn't come out of their room until 6:00 am - this is a lot to ask as the oldest wakes up each day at around 4:30 am! But they did great! I got up very early to retrieve the stockings that Santa had filled and put them in their bedroom so they could explore those while waiting for the old folks to get up. We got up at about 5:40, got the coffee brewing/tea steeping and cameras on the ready. The boys did well and were running down the hall by 6.
2. Son number one walked into the living room, hammed it up for the camera, and explored gifts under the tree all while seeming to be completely oblivious to the big red bike right next to the tree. When something was finally said about the bike, he simply said it was for mum or dad.. never occurring to him that it could be for him! I told him to read the tag to let us all know who it was for. Next we heard mumbling and then he exclaimed "Sweeeeeeettttt"!
3. Took a lot of leg work to find just the right toys - but as always seems to be the case, son number two's favorite toy from the day was the $10 Rockem' Sockem' game. Not a big shock as the little guy has some aggression issues (hoping this will become a good outlet).
4. I got a laptop computer! What do I need one of these for? It had been becoming increasingly clear to us that this would be a good idea as I 1. run my own business, 2. help lead ladies ministries in my church, 3 have been thinking about going back to school. (any suggestions on majors? I'm thinking child care as it's what I do now.. but not 100% sure.
5. Dinner - yummy!! Great company too as my husbands parents came and joined us. Good food & good company.

But more than these great memories I will cherish for years to come - What I like most about this day is that it is all to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Thank you God for giving us your son. Thank you for loving us so much!! Thank you for a gift too marvelous for our minds to fully comprehend.

Happy Birthday Jesus!!

My Squanto

2009-11-24T07:56:00.004-05:00

The big guy had his Thanksgiving class 'play' yesterday. (it turned out to be more of a long poem in costume)

He was so excited about being Squanto! I think you can see the excitement on his face.

This is just a little clip. Turn off the music to the right by clicking on the middle button so you can hear the poem.

Enjoy - and Happy Thanksgiving!!

(sorry for the shaky camera work - son #2 was a wiggle worm on my lap)

The Waiting Room

2009-11-13T23:10:00.009-05:00

The lighting was dim. Typically medical centers have harsh fluorescent lighting. I think the designers purposefully made this little waiting room dim to help ladies feel relaxed. Whether waiting to have your mammogram due to a specific concern, a yearly check up or even a base scan, the moments in the waiting room can feel like a most uneasy eternity.

Sitting there with my purse, keys and all clothing from the waist up stuffed into the canvas bin on my lap (fear not, I did have a flimsy little johnny on) I felt very alone. Of course, I was not the only person there. I heard the sound of nurses, doctors and technicians feet clad in soft souled shoes quickly treading this way and that, but sitting there I couldn't help but face the realization that in times like this, you really are alone. Even though when you head into the mammography room and you have a very amiable technician, aka sculpture, shoving, squishing and molding your body into just the right position to be pressed between two hard pieces of plastic as if your breast is a panini; it really is just you and the machine. This large cold piece of equipment holds the answers to every women's fears.

But I am thankful. No, I haven't received my results yet. I am thankful because what could have been a situation that in the past would have had me turning inside out, I had peace. Peace in knowing that in fact, I was not.. I am not alone. Jesus was with me in that waiting room, and came in with me as the technician started reading off my families history, "You have cancer all around you", and stayed with me as I got dressed again and headed out to meet up with my sister who was watching my youngest son. He is with me right now and gives me peace knowing that I should have the results in a week or so. And peace knowing that He will be right there with me regardless of the results.

God willing, the scans will be completely clear! I have no specific concern. But I think this is a fear of all women, especially when you have a family history of it. But God is good! He is with me always, and continues to shower me with His grace through every difficult and trying situation.

Difficult situations can spring up to meet us on a daily basis. This is why I try to be in God's word on a daily basis.

There are a few pieces of scripture that have really stuck with me lately from Proverbs - the book of wisdom.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.

and

Proverbs 3:25 - 26
Do not be afraid of sudden fear,
Nor of the onslaught of the wicked when it comes;
For the Lord will be your confidence,
And will keep your foot from being caught.

Wow! Don't be afraid of fear. Just let your mind wrap itself around that for a moment. And a straight path that I don't have to find on my own! Thank you! I can't find my way out of a paper bag.

My daily difficulties/concerns have been trying lately. But they are bearable. Bearable because I am not alone. I don't have to fear fear. I don't have to figure out the right path on my own (thank heavens because I'd never find it!).

When sitting in the various waiting rooms in life, you don't have to rely on the dim lighting and soothing music to keep you at peace. Go to the source of peace that surpassed all understanding.

photo: 'Hells Waiting Room' from FlickR

Yuck!!

2009-11-04T18:31:00.002-05:00

I'm going to share a really gross thing that happened to me today. My husband had a good laugh when I told him - he completely enjoyed my horrible experience.

I was typing out an email to our church secretary for entry into the newsletter when I saw something out of my peripheral vision. I turned to see a big nasty bug climbing up my wall from behind the couch. Yuck!!

Well there I was alone, no man.. or even boy to help me out. I went into the other room and emptied a box of Capri Sun into the fridge and brought the empty box back into where the bug was leisurely strolling along my wall. I put my hand in the box and pow... squish!! (for all of you who think I should have gingerly picked up the house guest and escorted him outside... get a grip!!! I wasn't chancing that thing crawling on me!)

As I pulled the box away from the wall, a horrible oder permeated the air. Yes - it turns out my uninvited guest was a stink bug!! A bloody stink bug in my house! Are you kidding?

Rather than throw it away in the trash and keep the stench lingering, I decided to shake it off of the box outside. (so there you go - the bug was being brought out) Up the stairs I went, opened the front door, stepped out onto the top step and began to shake/scrape the box outside. Just as I was about done and feeling safe to reenter my home, it happened.

Now for all of you nature lovers who thought I was terrible for killing the bug, here's the part you'll love and be saying to yourselves "serves you right". With the last shake, up from the box came a clump of bug guts and hit me right on the cheek. AAAAAAAAAAAAhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!

I threw the box, ran back in and up the stairs and began to scrub several layers of skin off of my cheek. Nasty!!!!

Now That Narrows It Down

2009-10-10T08:50:00.005-04:00

Ok, time for some more fun quotes!

My 4 year old tries to tell me a story about a boy at school. me - "What boy was that?", son - "The boy... with the white shirt." me - "What's his name?", son - "I don't know.", me - "What does he look like?", son - thinking.. thinking.. staring off into the distance..."Wellllll.... he has eyes...", me - holding in laughter, "Well that norrows it down."

I bring my boys to my sisters house where aunts and uncle and cousins await to go on a big trip to the movies. 4 year old son immediately starts running up and down the hall (where later he gets a fat lip from bumping inot another running up and down hall) yelling 'I'm Speed Wraserw.. I'm Seep (Racer)!" Nephew - "Billy, slow down, you're not Japanese!!!" (nephew knows nothing about Speed Racer other than it's Japanese animea)

Nieces birthday party. Kids help by passing her presents to be opened. As next one is brought forward, 7 year old son exclaims, "Ohhhh, two presents together... Impressssive!"

As 7 year old puts his shirt on.."Oh, not this shirt! I don't want to look handsome!" me "Well even if you wear a potato sack you'll still look handsome." him "Do you mean no matter what, I have to be handsome?!" poor thing!

Me to 4 year old after hearing a snorting noise ..."What are you doing?" him "My finger is cold so I'm putting it up my nose to keep it warm." cricket cricket.. "Go wash your hands with warm water."

Nerves

2009-09-21T23:44:00.002-04:00

Speaking tomorrow night at church.

Only 5 - 8 minutes. Sometimes less time is more nerve wracking.

Praying what I feel led to speak on has been put on my heart by God, and not my own agenda.

Praying that I don't take a path God has given me and then muddy it up with .. me.

Dear Lord,

I know you have been directing me to speak. I know you can use broken vessels for your glory. Help me to accept your calling and stop doubting myself - as this is about what you can and will do, not about my abilities.

As the verse you put on my heart says, 'Abide in me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing... My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples" (John 15: 4, 5 and 8), I pray that I will bear much fruit for the purpose of bringing you glory Lord! Bless each of the women who are speaking tomorrow. Help them to know exactly what you'd like them to say. Bless each of the women who are coming to listen tomorrow Lord. Help them to each take away from the event the exact message you have for them.

Lord, please do not allow me to say one word that will be displeasing to you or that would take away from reaching a woman with your truth. Guide my every word, every inflection in my voice. Help me to 'rest in You'... abide in You oh Lord.

Praise you Jesus!

Amen

Something To Think About..

2009-09-12T22:55:00.002-04:00

I was asked today by a new 'friend' on Facebook (a darling former classmate) if I will be attending our 20th reunion in a few months. (boy, 20 year reunion sounds terrible ;)

I instantly responded that I would not, as I have given this some momentary consideration in the past. But now, it's really got me thinking.

My first thoughts on the matter are that I see who I want to see now and don't feel any great longing to see anyone who isn't currently in my life. (Wow, that sounds harsh!! But isn't meant harshly) But given further consideration, there are of course those; my posse from the day, whom I would enjoy seeing.

But here's where it gets interesting and I start analyzing (because heaven forbid I don't analyze every situation at nauseum!!). When I see and chat with those on good ole' FB from BHS, I feel myself start to transition to the 16 / 17 year old me. I've posted on this before.

I start taking on old behaviors like covering my horribly crooked teeth, which are no longer crooked as I had braces put on at age 26. I feel myself start to sort of shrink (I wish in actual clothing size, but no..) I feel.... less!

When I look back at young Diane (sorry, I just referred to myself in the third person.. it works here though), I don't dislike her. She was very sweet. Very nice. "Nice" however became an insipid compliment to me at the time as I felt it was condescending. I felt very under valued. Dismissed frequently. I had no idea what it was to boldly express my opinion or even stand up for myself.

When I think of where I am today compared to then, it amazes me. Not because I think so well of myself, but because I am amazed at what God has done in my life.

The 17 year old me could not do what I do now. She could not run a business. She could not help lead in ladies ministry. She could never get up and speak to a sanctuary full of ladies. She could not call someone and tell them they're wrong when it's called for, especially not someone of authority.

The really cool thing is... The 38 year old me can. But not by my own doing, but by the grace of God.

So, do I choose to keep away from a setting that may make this late 30's overweight, happily married, business owning mother of two feel insecure and little. Or,.. Do I go, allowing God to show me what He has done for His glory and get my confidence from Him.

I'm not sure. On one hand, we're told to keep away from temptation. What temptation? The temptation of wallowing in self-loathing and insecurity.

But on the other hand, do I go as we are told to go out and be a light. And if anyone sees a difference in me, I can share where my life journey has led me?

Something to think about...

The "Children" Having Fun

2009-09-07T08:56:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I went on a picnic and then off to the playground with 'the kids'.
Below, you'll see a video of them having fun on the swings.
To hear better (sorry for my cackling) turn off the songs by going to the right hand column and clicking on the big button in the music section.

I had fun swinging too, but there's no evidence :)

from left to right: Jack, Aidan, Julie, Judy, Billy & Julia.
Enjoy!

It's Not Polite To Point

2009-08-28T07:46:00.002-04:00

The kids were enjoying a bowl of Cheez-its at my sister's house when we happened to notice, a hand in the bowl.... With a pointing finger no less...
Do you see it?

We thought of putting it on ebay like the potato that looked like Jay Leno, or the piece of toast that had a picture of Mary on it.

But alas, I'm not a complete crackpot. Oops.. did I say that?

But I do so enjoy bizarre little things like this!
I've often thought of taking pictures of these strange sightings and making a coffee table book.

Hmm... note to self...

You Never Know What Yer Gunna Git!

2009-08-12T22:55:00.003-04:00

Youngins' are funny, aren't they?
You just never know what they're going to do. No idea what little gem will come to them next.

Tonight was such a night. It was VBS night! (vacation Bible school)

The night started off pretty well. During the opening song time, my boys, as is typical, instead of signing and clapping along played air guitar and air drums - each giving an impressive solo complete with knee slide. Cool!!

Then we moved to game time. Again, went well. Boys got creamed as the girls had twice as many team members.

Then we went in for 'Dockside Drive-in' - here's where it started to get fun.
"Miss Diane"... "I uh.. I ..... blaugh..." After the initial vomiting into my lap, I brought the little guy into the bathroom for him to finish and clean us up (not too bad). So good times - getting puked on. But then shocked that when the parent was told and they came in, that they were like "ya, I'm sure he's fine." and off they went. Poor little man was not fine, and continued to whine and lie across me the rest of the night.

But then.... Our little friend needed to go to the bathroom, so my older son takes him in. I can see the door. After a few minutes, I decide to go as I want to be there should assistance be needed. Son #2 follows me. Insists he too has to go. In he goes to join other two boys in the men's room. (yes, you are quite right to sense this was not a good situation)
Older boy comes out, "little friend" needs help pulling himself back together. Easy fix, I lean in the door, all is well.
After a few more minutes, I start to wonder what is going on with child #2. Clearly, he is happy. I know this because I can hear him singing rather joyfully through the door. I ask older son to see what's going on.
Door closes. I hear voices. I hear yelling. I hear "Mummy!!!!" I open the door...

There I find son #2 (aka Dennis the Menis (said with love)) with one foot on a stool, other foot IN the urinal (stop heaving, you weren't even there!) with underwear, shorts and shoes all strewn around the bathroom.
Was he surprised that I saw him? Ashamed? Maybe a little frightened? Oh no! Not my boy! He flashed me the biggest grin and had the nerve to say "LOOK" as he held his arms out to the side in a Nadia Comaneci gold medal earning pose.

Evidently my eyes bulging out of my head, face turning scarlet as little purple veins stared to protrude through my skin while my mouth was pursed so tightly my lips had completely disappeared was too nonchalant for him to realize that I had in fact, seen him.

With teeth gritted together, "You get out of there and get your clothes on this minute!!!"
After a few more threats, I mean instructions, out he came with a big, "Hear I am Mummy."

We've decided to give the little performer a week off to 'rest up'. I'm sure he'll use the time to think up more shenanigans!!

Organized!!

2009-08-10T10:26:00.003-04:00

Instead of making New Year's resolutions, I choose a word for the year. The word I chose for 2009 was Organize!

I've done... very so-so with that thus far. With young kids, it seems like you no sooner clean something, and they've undone what you had just finished previously.
Sometimes, this can get me feeling down. "Why bother!" I start to think to myself.

But with my birthday, I decided that this year I will take charge of things! So....

I went around the house taking pictures of the different projects I want to tackle. "Trimming The Fat" I like to call this endeavour. At some point, this will turn to self as well..

My 1st project, my closet. Here is the 'before' picture. Paperwork and books were piling up on the top shelf. Papers needed filing, books needed weeding out. I started hanging sweaters on the pegs that were meant for scarves, hats, etc.. I have far too many clothes that I never wear either due to them being out of season, too old, or the don't fit. (back to that need of turning myself into a project) My floor was covered with more books, clothes that had fallen off of hangers, shoes that hadn't been on my feet for years, a bag of diapers (seriously), and so on.

I started with the top shelf. I took all of the paper work, filed or threw out each piece of paper. Found a document I'd been looking for for weeks (score!). I then went through the books, set some aside for a yard sale, and put the rest in order. I went through pictures (some on the shelf, some in a box on the floor) and had a great time walking down memory lane!! (may post some of these pictures at a later date) I even found some nursing pads! Wow, they've been there a long time!

Next, I weeded through the clothes. Lots are off to Good Will. Some have been put into the 'dream bag'. The bag I dream of needing to take out again when I can fit into those sizes. A few pieces were even tossed. It was fun seeing fancy dresses that once had a lot of use in my past life (not getting new age on you - just talking about my early 20's when I had lots of fancy socials to go to... now finding a t-shirt without a stain will do for most of my social obligations ;)

Lastly, I rescued the floor. I put books where they belonged, took out the box that had been housing shoes with an inch of dust on them. Why did I have 5 pairs of high heeled black velvet shoes? I kept a few pairs, saved a pair of unworn boots for the yard sale, and tossed some heels that I've had since my 20's.

Finally, after hours of sorting, filing, cleaning and throwing, here's what I had. A clean closet!! Hooray!!

While I was attacking this project, I'm sure it goes without saying that my cherubs were destroying the rest of the house. Ahh... Well, today I tidy up the house. Catch back up on laundry. And hopefully move on to my next project. The boys closet!!!

I'll keep you posted...

What are you working on?

One Down..

2009-08-03T22:06:00.005-04:00

I did something today that I have never done in my life!

I mowed the lawn!

You see, as I looked out of the back window and saw the Serengeti, I decided something must be done or the children may get lost playing in the 'safety' of their own yard.

I shovel snow in the winter. I rake and bag leaves in the fall and spring (hate that it needs doing again due to leaves not knowing when they are supposed to fall off for goodness sakes). But mowing? Uh, no! Don't do it. You have to draw the line somewhere, and that's where my neon line is drawn my friends!! However....

My poor husband is layed up at the moment with an injured foot, so he is out of commission in so far as fulfilling his husbandly duties. (aka - yard work!)

So out I went with my husband's keys. This in and of itself proved to be a mission. "Which of these 72 keys goes to the lock on the shed" I wondered. After about only 12 tries, I cracked the first challenge. Next, "how the heck do I work this thing?"

"Hi, Julie? I have a weird question for you. Um, do you know how to turn on a lawn mower.. and then how do you shut it off when you're done?" With excellent directions, I had it! It took me only 3 pulls of the cord to get the machine going! Not only that, but once I got it started, my fans started to cheer me, "Yeah Mummy - you did it, you did it!" Their little fists were pounding in the air and all. I felt like a champ. Oh, wait a minute, I haven't done anything yet...

Off I went. What would I call my lawn mowing technique? Vacuumesque! Yes, I worked that baby like a Eureka! As best as I could that is. You see, lawn mowers as it turns out, are not easy to maneuver. "Hello, I'd like to speak to Mr. Dyson please." I love English accents typically, but his is rather snotty. I'd deal with it though to ask him to design a lawn mower that pivots on a ball. (see, you need a woman's insight on these things) Any who.. not going to worry, this will not become a real regular thing. After all, my neon line and all.

So on and on I went, cutting the long wafty grass with each pass. I finished when the mower started sputtering from the empty gas tank. I looked back. Yes, well done I think to myself. A very interesting pattern I left in the grass. I call it, lawn art! The National Enquirer may call it something else, and if they were to come around, I'd sell them all the pictures they wanted and call it a day :) (that's what people get for buying that rag.)

I was quite happy with my accomplishment. The only problem... I still have the front yard to do. Ugh!! The only other problem, migraine from the sun - double Ugh!!

image: FlickR

Another Year Older

2009-07-30T22:17:00.003-04:00

As of today, I am official in my 'late 30's'.

I was dreading fitting into this category - but here it is, and I'm ok with it.

(alternative: "Sorry! (read w/Monty Python inflection) Growing older has been cancelled, I've now decided I'm 32 again... Yes, that's it, 32!)

So 38 - here we go!

I've decided that my 38th year will be a good one, as I feel so much in life ultimately boils down to our attitude. I've had a couple of sucky years to be quite honest, and I'm done with it!

I'm in a season of transition in my life, as I've blogged about before. And those that may read somewhat regularly will remember, I don't like transition!!

But the fact is, this is where I'm at, and rather than keep complaining about it, I'm ready to buck up and face it. I need to set some goals, pray more confidently for direction and then proceed forward without fear.

Sounds good, doesn't it? Well gosh darn it, I'm going to!!

I want to shed my fears (with God's help, or rise above them) in my 38th year.

stop allowing worry to hold me back and slow me down

I will not care so much what others think of me in my 38th year.

I try to be nice to everyone, but if someone doesn't like me, I can't dwell on it - that's their choice

I will not feel guilty about doing things for myself that are necessary for me to be healthy in mind, body and spirit in my 38th year.

it's time to accept that doing things for myself (doctor's visits, bible study, a walk, etc..) are things that will make me a better wife and mother and are therefore necessary

So I'm taking charge starting now!! I'm marching right up stairs and getting a peanut butter cup my husband bought me because it's good for my well being!! (ok, not the start I was originally thinking of, but it will do)

This is it - here I come!

Bliss!!

2009-07-07T23:57:00.002-04:00

I had 10 minutes to myself... So what did I do? I watched me a lil' Paula Dean y'all!

I LOVE her!! She's my kinda people. But I didn't know how much I adored the queen of butter until I saw the masterpiece she made that particular day.

I can not tell you the name of this sweet heavenly confection, but I call it "Almond Joy Cake". I saw the teaser of what she'd be making for the dessert portion of the episode and ran (yes, I do it time and again, especially if it pertains to dessert) into the kitchen to get a pen and paper.

I tried looking the recipe up on line, but it does not seem to be on their. So, here's what I got from my chicken scratches.

Spray a 9 x 13 pan with Pam.
Spread 1C. shredded coconut over the bottom of the pan.
Spread 1/2 C. chopped pecans over the coconut.
Make a German chocolate cake according to box instructions.
Chop 10 mini-Almond Joy bars.
Add the candy to the cake batter and pour into the pan.

Mix 1 stick softened butter, 8oz of softened cream cheese and 2 C. confectioners sugar.
Drop mixture in big dollops on top of the cake batter.

Bake according to box instructions (may need to add a minute or two).

(now, this is why I LOVE Ms. Dean)
If this is not enough.....
Chocolate Glaze:
In a pan over medium heat:
1 stick butter, 1/4 C. cocoa, 1/2 C. milk, about 1 1/2 C. confectioners sugar (a little almond extract or vanilla)

Once cake is out of oven, and while still in the pan, pour this glaze over the top.

I made this a few weeks ago for a family party. I decided, that being the hostess, it would be horrible manners for me to serve a new recipe without checking it first. So, being the selfless person that I am, I dug in for a sample. The most amazing thing happened. After taking that first bite, the cake seemed to start evaporating... the hole spread .. and spread... But fear not, there was plenty for the guests the next day.

I thought, maybe it's just me... maybe it isn't as good as it seems. But as each person took their first bite, the looks on their faces changed. SHANGRI-LA!!

Let me warn you though - only make this cake if you have a crowd to share it with. The old "It's so rich, I can only have a little sliver" stuff will not do!! It's addictive.

Enjoy!!!!

You think THAT's early?

2009-06-26T06:57:00.003-04:00

We are in week two of summer vacation.

I love summer vacation.

But if I have to hear one more mother complain that their cherubs are waking them up at 7:00+ am... 7:00 AM!!!!!!!! (please read '7:00 am' with Sam Kinisonesk inflection!) I'll slap them! (well... ok, no I wont... but I'll feel like it! But then very shortly after feel horribly guilty about feeling that way and eat something to cover my guilt..... Forget it! I'm not going with the slap instinct. I'll go with inner frustration... which will also cause me to eat...)

"Mummy... mummy.... can we go play Farm Town? ? ? Mummy.. when can we go play on the computer? ? ? Mummy.... can I have some chocolate milk? ? ? Mummy... can I have some candy? ? ? Mummy.... are you ever getting up? ? ? I'm never going to get to play Farm Town again!!!!!"

7:00 am.... 7:00 am!!!!!

No no my friends. The above begging begins at 5:15 am!!!!!!!!!!!! Husband is up at 5:00 am and leaves at about 6:00 am on a typical day. Therefore, I do not get up until he leaves. But son #1 can't stand for me to be in bed if he's awake, unless it's a weekend because then dad is on the computer with him.

I dream of 7:00 am!!!

The real cruelty is that the younger one doesn't get up (if left to himself) until about 6:30 am. 'Oh... 6:30 am... how sweet it would be to awake to your beautiful numbers brightly displayed on the digital alarm clock!'

I have a plan for pay back though!

When the boy is in his teens I will become the parade marshal of our home. As marshal, I will schedule regular processions through the parade route (aka - his bedroom) to begin precisely at 4:30 am! Not only will I be marshal, but also, I will be the drummer! With great enthusiasm I shall march along keeping time with my shinny pot and wooden spoon.

When he has awakened, maybe I'll request a snack. I do believe however that I will be met with a flying pillow. But it will be so worth it!!!

7:00 am...

If This Doesn't Say It All..

2009-06-19T23:15:00.002-04:00

Pictures are worth a thousand words, yes?

Well if these two pictures don't say it all, I'd never be able to explain it to you!

Wait for it.....

Note to self: Next time you want to make frosting with the kids, open bag of confectionairy sugar, pour it on self, children and all around kitchen and save yourself some time.

(FYI: I was not so amused when this happened. I peeled off the boys shirts and was about to send them to their rooms, but couldn't resist getting a picture first. The older one bolted first - don't think he wanted evidence for dad.)

Oops.. He Did It Again

2009-06-03T19:37:00.004-04:00

I can only imagine the phone calls that came after...

"Hey Suzie, I have a funny story for you! I was at The Christmas Tree Shop and,.. yes, I do love a bargin! Any how, I was there looking at a greater and,... well you never know when you're going to need one..... I don't know. Maybe I'll want some fresh parmasian someday. So I'm standing there and this woman and her little boy come by. I smiled at the little boy - he was cute and was bee boppin' to the music on the speaker. Any how, they passed by and like a few seconds later I hear, "Hey mummy, look. I'm picking my bum!" I couldn't help it, I laughed out loud! When the mother looked at me I clamped my hand over my mouth and tried not to look at them. Yeah, she was like 'Be nice! Stop saying fresh words.' But then the kid kept saying it and then starting doing this sing song thing like 'bummy bum bum' or something like that. It was great!"

So glad that we were able to do our part in bringing a smile to someones face today!

Every Child Is Perfectly Designed

2009-05-24T23:23:00.002-04:00

I had the pleasure of attending 'Beyond Bossing, Begging and Bribing" a talk presented by The Better Behavior Bureau speaker/founder Jeanine Fitzgerald on Wednesday evening.

I was fortunate enough to hear Jeanine speak a few years back and was thrilled for another ride. She is blunt, honest, dry and hysterically funny!! It was a free night that not only benefited me as a parent, but also gave me a few hours for my continuing ed for my family child care license. So I grabbed my cup of iced caffeine and and off I went for my 'night out'. (hey, I take what I can get!)

I'm going to bullet point (you know how I love to bullet point) some of my most favorite things that she had to share. Some serious wisdom here from Mrs. Fitzgerald, so take some notes...

* "Every child is perfectly designed." They don't need 'fixing' - but we need how to reach them on their level. Ok, as a Christian, I'd prefer 'every child is perfectly created' - but no need to split hairs. This is a beautiful point!

* "Temperament is genetic." Take a good look at your little cherub(s) and you're bound to find bits of yourself and your spouse. Of course, those traits that are maybe... undesirable, we'll say they get those from dad. (or mom, depending on who's reading ;)

*"Some children are 'discipline resistant'." Isn't that a fabulous term? Love it!

*Effective Commands: "Discern when kids get a choice and when not." If something is not a choice, don't phrase it as such. "Deliver so a child can hear (no extra words)" example: "Pjs now" "Statement" (when it's not a choice) example: "It's time to go upstairs" (keep away from 'I need or you need' kid don't care what you need and what they need is subjective) Say things 3 - 5 ft away. Wait 10 seconds before you repeat yourself.

*"75% of parents give in" - Wow! This is why kids will hold out - they have a great chance that in the end they'll get their way. Say something twice - if they don't respond, take action! example "Go to the car now" (child - "no" or just doesn't move from the playground).. wait 10 seconds... "Go to the car now" (same response from child) .. wait 10 seconds... Now it's time to go and get the child, no bribing or begging.

* "Epidemic in the U.S. It's called 'Childhood Affluenza'" - LOVED this!! Lots of info on this category. I'll just mention a bit of it. 1. American children are the most unhappy children in the world and the most demanding. (per a source she named but I don't recall) 2. Gifts should be kept to gift giving occasions not, "oh, it's Tuesday, lets go buy jr a new $100 item". 3. There's a difference between responsibilities and jobs. Doing your normal personal care/house cleaning is a responsibility not a job. Allowances should be for doing jobs that are over and above responsibilities. example: cleaning room, taking out trash, putting away laundry,etc. - responsibility. helping parent make copies for work, washing parents car, etc. - job to earn reasonable pay - not exorbitant fee.

* She did a wonderful chart of personalities. Quick paced/slow paced/ task oriented/ people oriented. Great stuff!! Helps to understand what speaks to your child and how to best reach them on their level. If anyone wants more info on this, let me know.

This is just a smattering of what was shared at the talk. It really was great stuff and my typing it out can't do it justice. If you get the chance to hear Jeanine, I'd highly recommend going!! I'll be keeping a look out to see if she'll be around again - I'll post here if she is.

One last thing for all of us parents to remember. (ready - this is highly convicting!) On average, children speak with their parents (conversation) 7 minutes a day! Ouch!!!

We all have the same number of hours in our day.

What are our priorities?

Square Peg

2009-05-02T21:30:00.003-04:00

Square Peg: a person in a position, situation, etc. for which they are unsuited or unqualified.

Time and time again, I am finding myself in very uncomfortable situations. This square peg just isn't fittin' into some of the circles I used to! (or jeans... I'm just sayin')

I frequently find myself looking on to a conversation or event with nothing to add. Yes, me, at a loss for words! (Those who know me well are raising their eyebrows right now.) Then, I start to have an inner dialog and analyze the fact that I have nothing to add. Let me just say right now, that I am a champion over-analyzer!!!! (this is common with us chicas, I know)

Has this happen to you?

Through my 'over-analyzing', I have come to believe that in some circumstances, I have outgrown the relationship. (by this, please understand that I don't mean I'm 'better' than anyone! rather, our thoughts, values, perspectives have just gone in different directions.) We don't look at things the same way or value things on the same level. What is of primary interest and important to me is not to them, and visa versa. One's ways are not better than the others, just different.

I'm wondering if again, I'm entering another season of life. We are constantly a work in progress. I think I may just be on the Potter's wheel again getting reshaped. (this time could it involve a smaller dress size too please.. you know, while you're at it and all..)

As uncomfortable as it is (and it really is!!!) I'm reminded of what great comfort and wisdom I get from reading the book of James. I remember that God will perfect us in our faith through trials.

Lord, this too shall pass I know. Help me not give in to self doubt or fear as I know You are in control and have a greater purpose for everything! Thank you for the joy you have given me and that even in trial, it never dies out!!

Amen!

2009-04-30T21:38:00.002-04:00

I had another great day today with my my youngest son and the girls I care for and then later with my other son and husband.

Right now, I'm sitting here at my computer getting ready to head upstairs and take a nice hot shower and then enjoy a piping hot cup of tea.

As I'm thinking about this it hits me... How blessed am I?!

Sometimes it is so darn easy to take the little day to day things in our lives for granted.

Lord, help me to always be mindful of all of the blessings you have given me.

my family

my friends

the children you've entrusted to my care

my home

our cars

this computer I type on

indoor plumbing (so thankful for this!!)

tea!!

the stove to heat my water

etc...

Even the smallest is a great gift from you!!

Help me to always remember, I'm too blessed to stress!!!!!

AMEN!

Billy Boy

2009-03-20T10:02:00.004-04:00

To turn off music so you can listen, just look to the right hand column and scroll down until you see the pink music box. Click on the middle button and it will stop the music.

This is Billy singing (sort of, 'his song' Billy Boy)

Where have you been Billy Boy Billy Boy

Where have you been charming Billy

I have been to seek a wife

She's the joy of my life

But she's a young thing and can not leave her mother

One Year

2009-03-16T22:39:00.003-04:00

It has been one year since my mother died.

I can't believe it has been a year.

Not really ready to write about it right now - so I'm posting an encore of my sister's eulogy to my mum. I love you Mum!!

IKEA

2009-03-01T20:52:00.002-05:00

I finally went to the furniture mecca that I've been told 'I Must!' go to.

I went... I walked... I walked... I walked....

You see, I learned that the English translation for the Swedish word Ikea is: labyrinth!

They get you in, but you can't find your way out!

Sure, there are blue signs hanging from the ceiling that say: 'Exit', but they are really just a trick. A mirage if you will, leading you a seemingly never ending journey through a see of very contemporary, brightly colored home stuffs. (I hate the word 'stuffs' by the way .. but it fits here)

I have never in my life felt claustrophobic before, but I did there in that 100 billion square foot store. We did the top floor (hubby and I) and it was pleasant enough; sofas, beds, children's rooms and toys. But then when we hit the bottom level and I decided there really wasn't anything of interest to me, I wanted to leave. But after running through the isles like a science lab rat, I began to panic. It was all I could do to not yell out "I'm not going to buy anything!! Even if you force me to see every single floral lampshade, florescent rug, busy comforter, odd shaped plate, and every lighting fixture known to man! Let me out! Let me out!!!!"

Finally, we followed our noses to the source of the smell of cinnamon buns and we escaped, I mean we left the establishment.

Ikea... Not going in again with out a GPS system and a bag of bread crumbs!

On the plus side: We were not bothered once by a sales person (but don't know how easy it would be to find one for help if I needed one), they have a child care drop off (I'm not recommending this as we didn't use it - has anyone tried it? interesting idea though!!), and I did see some items I'd like for my home child care at very reasonable prices.

Having Sons Means:

2009-02-27T08:36:00.004-05:00

Be forewarned, this post is not for those who are not well acquainted with the world of boys, who cringe at 'potty talk', or who in general, just can't handle frank talk about young children and all of their 'unrefined' ways. Read on at your own risk...

Having sons means:

* it's hard to get an actual sentence out of them between the sound effects of light sabers clashing and bombs exploding. "I psh don't woosh want chuchuccc to ahhhh eat brmm pasta whoohaaa for shooomoooo dinner bchhhhh."

* being awoke to the bellowing of a child wanting you to come into the bathroom quickly, only to discover that he simply wanted to show you the impressive size or shape of what he has left in the potty and then giving you a thumbs up.

* is knowing that this sight will not be as rare as you'd hope. (please see picture: this particular injury happened as a result of an air born cup, thrown by brother.)

* that action heroes are not meant to have a conversations (other than, 'I'll get you' - 'Now you've done it' - 'I'm super strongest'), but just beat on each other repeatedly until one loses a limb.

* bathroom humor will never get old. And I mean never!! I have two brothers and my husband to prove it.

* (and furthermore to the above) simply saying a bodily function/body part word is cause for a fit of complete hysterics. Especially when it is said at the most 'opportune' of times - such as when mum is talking to the Pastor's wife (thank goodness she has grandsons around the same age and is completely understanding!!), or breaking out into the song they composed themselves 'Bummy bum bum... Bummy bum bum' at the library counter (poor librarian was unamused!).

* using a cartoon character (Popeye) to persuade children to eat their green vegetables.. which seems great, until they then start picking up objects that are really too heavy for them to show their 'mushcles.. aye yi yi'. "Look, I can lift this chair right over my head (wobbling about to crush him) because I ate a piece of broccoli. Now I'm as strong as Popeye.. no, I'm his nephew Poopeye." (yes, they saw a cartoon with his nephew 'Poopeye')

* never looking over at your son when you can feel his eyes staring you down during library story time. When you do, you'll simply find him smiling broadly while shoving his finger as far up his nose as possible with a big grin as if to say, 'This little show is just for you mum!! You can't reach me through this sea of children, you have to just sit there and let me torment you.'

* hearing phrases such as, 'Now it's my turn to put my feet on your head.' 'But I want to be Captain Underpants now (did I just have the nerve to capitalize that?) you can be him later.' At least they're taking turns, right?

* (and the best!!!) melting when you hear, "I love you too my sweetheart" when you tuck them into bed.

This list could go on for pages, but you get the idea.

Ah boys! :)

I love em'!!

Thursday TV

2009-02-26T21:43:00.004-05:00

I love Thursday night tv!

8:00 pm - Ugly Betty

9:00 pm - The Office

10:00 pm - ER

UB ~ I guess I'm just a sucker for the idea that the 'inwardly beautiful' girl can make it in the cut-throat fashion industry while keeping her values, and sometimes gets the guy. And let's face it girls, we always see not very good looking guys who are out with these beautiful little women. But how often do we see great looking guys with 'inwardly beautiful' women?

I love her self-esteem and courage!

I love that she's going to give Matt a shot!! (did you see tonight?)

The other cast of characters are great too! I hope they're not done with her Scottish friend now that she had her baby!!

The Office ~ Ok, if you've ever worked in an office environment, then you are bound to watch the show and be able to swap out names. Jim is Bob. Meridith is Kathy. Andy is Jack. Ryan is ... HR guy.. can't remember his name... Any how, you get the picture. (I've worked in multiple offices' so I can list these names knowing that these names were common enough not to indicate any one person.)

It's so totally off the wall. I love tuning in just to see what they're up to this time. Michael says the most bizarre things.. or maybe Dwight does.. I don't know. And then when Jim, one of the few in their right mind gives that look to the camera. Love it!!

"I'm not superstitious. Just a little stitious." ~ Michael

ER ~ What can I say, I've been watching ER since the second year I believe. (or maybe 1/2 way through year one) They lost me for about a year (I thought it was getting boring.. same story - 'are they together, aren't they....' This year though, where they're bringing back lots of the original cast - great stuff!!!

Carter is back. I love Carter!!! And the way they tied this in to his biggest story line from years ago - great! Sad mind you, but great!

Can't wait to see who else they bring back. I wish Anthony Edward (Dr. Green) could come back - but he died. They did do a little recap on him several episodes ago, but not the same. After that... I don't know. Maybe Jeanie. I really don't care if Dr. Ross comes back (sorry, not a big Clooney fan. don't dislike him, but it wont make the last season for me.)

It's sad that it's ending. It's been around my whole adult life practically. Great show!

Ok.. my shows are over. Time for bed.

until next Thursday...

I've Been Cheating

2009-01-27T22:18:00.004-05:00

I feel as though I have been cheating on you dear blog.

I have started a relationship with...., Facebook.

So many said we should meet. I resisted. But finally I caved.

Ok, enough of this silliness.

My limited Facebook experience has been a real eye opener! God can use anything to reach us.

The way FB works is you sign up for it and you are then given a 'wall' where you see your activity on FB and where people can post. Who can post? This is where 'friends' come into the pictures.
You enter a name/school/business into the search engine and it will pull up all individuals with the name (or close to it.. sometimes) that you enter. You can then apply to be their 'friend'. Of course, the individual does not have to accept. They can 'ignore' your request for friendship (now that's not friendly).
So when it's gone a few days and you haven't heard from someone whom you offered out the www hand of friendship, you start feeling like 'they don't want to be my friend' (read with a pout). You start getting a little paranoid. (notice I say 'you' and not 'me'... This is simply because almost everyone I've spoken to feels the same way on FB - men too!)
Then you start getting in touch with some people from high school. If you're like me, you're saying to yourself, 'I don't even remember 85% of these people!!! Did I actually go to school there..?"
You start looking at their photos.. reading what's been going on in their lives.. notice some have matured.. notice some have not......
Before long, I (yes, I'm saying "I" as I have no idea if others feel this way.) start to feel like Diane from the BHS class of 89' (there you have it, I've dated myself). I start to feel like that shy girl. I begin unintentionally covering my mouth, forgetting that since high school I had braces on for five long years and no longer have Halloween-crooked teeth I need to hide. I start thinking about who I'll sit with at lunch (my son of course). Will I have to be lab partners with that boy who used to call me "Porky" in 5th grade? Will that popular girl who has the reputation for being smart ask me for my home work again?...... I start feeling like I'm shrinking, and not in a good way.

But alas, I am not that girl any more. I'm older. And wiser. I'm better!!

We studied last week in Bible study about when David cries out to God, "Who am I, O Lord GOD, and what is my house, that You have brought me this far." 2 Sam. 7:18

When I look back at who I was (thanks FB) and see where I am now, I can't help but think "Who am I O Lord God, that You have brought me this far?" I am still shy.. I still worry about who I will socialize with at a big gathering... but, or should I say, BUT - I know who I am in Christ!! I know my worth, not because of who I am, but because who God has made me.

When I stand before the group of ladies at church each Tuesday night as we talk about the Bible study (and DVD's) we are doing together, I am completely overwhelmed at where God has me. I, Diane, could NEVER stand before those ladies - NEVER!!!! But it is where God has me, and there's no better place than to be in His will!

Who am I Oh Lord God?...

I am your daughter ~ Thank you Jesus!!!! (and thanks FB for reminding me)

Tea Anyone?

2009-01-16T19:07:00.005-05:00

I was asked for a tutorial on how I made the tea bag holders that we used for the favors at our Women's Christmas Tea at church. So here it is!!

I promise, I'll write about the tea soon - it was an amazing day!!!

Cut a piece of cardstock measuring 7 1/2" x 3".

Score twice at 2 1/2" intervals creating 3 sections.

Adhere a piece of paper, 2 1/2" x 2" (holly pattern used here) for the cover.

At the opposite end, attach another piece of patterned paper.

Fold this section in and cut it on the diagonal.

Use liquid adhesive to close the bottom and side.

I put the title of my talk and the key scripture verse on another piece of cardstock and attached that opposite the tea bag pocket. (1 3/4" x 2 1/4")

Cut a 1 foot strip of ribbon. Attach with a mini glue dot on back. Tie into a bow.

I originally saw this on Split Coast Stampers, but without a tutorial. There some of the gals had put another piece of stamped paper on the front over the patterned paper.

Time consuming (to make 60 any way), but easy and fun!!

Enjoy!!!

Get Ready, Get Set, THROW!

2009-01-09T07:56:00.003-05:00

I suffered a little injury last night while running.

What, you didn't know I had taken up running?

Well yes. I took it up last evening.

The couch was my starting line.

I sprinted through the living room, down the hall (there suffering my injury when I stepped on that great hunk of green muscle himself, the Hulk), rounded into the 'gated community', and reached the finish line (aka, the bucket by my son's bed).

This was not a race for the faint of heart or those without endurance. The race lasted from 9:36 pm - 1:48 am. Sometimes the gun would go off without warning and the race was on! There were also side trips to the laundry room and bathroom along the way.

Husband was not into the race. No.. When asked to participate, the frustration that occurred was enough to make this sprinter decided she'd rather run this track alone and sought no further 'company' on the journey.

It certainly feels like we're running a race sometimes, doesn't it?

I'm just glad that this 'way past her prime' runner is blessed with healthy children (aside from the normal drippy nose and bug) and therefore doesn't get upset with these occasional races (although sad for the one waiting for my arrival at the finish line). I'm just thankful that this mornings sprint will be of a completely different nature (son is 100% better today!).

For Such A Time As This..?

2009-01-05T13:18:00.006-05:00

Saturday, January 3rd was our Ladies Christmas Tea at church and proved to be a lovely day!

We started with a few glitches, no heat, frozen seafood and so forth. But God simply used these bumps to prove that He is in complete control and though these things were bothersome to us, He saw to it that the day went off beautifully.

As the ladies entered, they came to the check-in table with the above beautiful flower arrangement, program on display, and a basket of tea holders (so easy to make - but time consuming).

The tables were set with pale pink table clothes, pretty floral napkins and a teapots filled with pink tea roses. (so feminine - gotta have me some girlie time living in a house with males!)

The buffet was filled with finger sandwiches and dainty sweets on doilies.

During set up, it was lots of busy work. Wonderful time chatting with the ladies (some of my good friends from Heart2Heart). Many hands make light work and laughter makes everything more enjoyable!!

But once the busy work was complete and it was time to review the set up in the sanctuary, the nerves set it.

You see, I was the speaker for the event and it was my very first time doing anything of this sort. Sure, I've lead Bible studies and prayer circles - but that's very different from coming up with a whole talk and standing up before about 40 ladies.

I had started over a month ago planning the lesson. God put on my heart so clearly right from the get go exactly what He wanted this tea to be about. We were to learn about the Magi from the east and the gifts that they brought to Jesus at His birth. We originally were going to hold the tea prior to Christmas, but due to scheduling difficulties, we had to do it after. But the topic was to stay the same and on we proceeded.

It amazes me how much God teaches us when we are open and active in our studies! I didn't know where the lesson was going to go, but with each new discovery God enlightened me with, I was more and more excited to read on! I found myself sharing new insights at the dinner table with my husband that had me so excited, but although encouraging and interested, he didn't have the same excitement. I think this is just due to the fact that when I learned these new truths, it was through communion with God. Whereas John was hearing it second hand from me.

Once I had gathered all the verses and information I needed for the talk, I practiced, by myself down stairs talking to the tv (which kindly stood in as the female congregation). Even then, I felt nervous. I was in prayer constantly asking the Lord to prepare me for the event and that I would be a pliable vessel for Him. I prayed for the ladies who were to come and that the Lord would be preparing their hearts for what He had to say.

The preparation was over. There I was after the tea, sitting in the first pew waiting for all of the ladies to take their seats. My friend Debbie started the music that was to play as we all prepared ourselves for God's message. It was a song by Nichole C. Mullen (she's great!) called 'Call on Jesus'. My head was bowed and I was praying something like, "God, please help me not to mess this up. I pray your word would reach these ladies, help me not to get in the way. Please help me remember what You want me to say..." and on it went. My nerves were reaching a fever pitch, when suddenly the music got through to me. I heard the line 'when you call on Jesus all things are possible'. Suddenly, without any thought, my prayers changed to , "Thank you Jesus! I praise you Lord!" I felt a wash come over me, and I relaxed. Normal nervousness remained, but the panic was totally gone!

As I stood behind the podium, I felt God's presence so tangibly. I shared what He had given me. I believe the passion I have for Him and His word came forth - and my earnest prayer is that someone was touched by His message. That they look to strengthen their relationship with Christ. That if they had not yet taken the step to accept Him as savior and give their life to Him, that they would. It's easy to get caught up in church. And for some, that means they can miss the part that church doesn't save, only Jesus Christ can!!

The ladies were all so kind and supportive after the event. This has been the most humbling experience of my life!!! To think that God used me to speak to His daughters!!
I've felt led in Ladies Ministries for years, but it's been a very slow process. I've had many hardships and troubles over the years. Even earlier, I didn't have a smooth childhood - lots of hurts. But as I looked back up at the podium after the event I couldn't help think, all of the experiences I've had to make me grow and mature in my faith, may it not have been for such a time as this?

Lord, thank you for allowing me to serve you!! May my love and passion for you never lag! I praise you for your loving kindness and faithfulness!! I will seek you all of my days!

Now & Then

2009-01-01T21:44:00.005-05:00

Last year at this time I had chosen a key word for myself for 2008. That word was "Simplify".

I was somewhat successful at this, but not the screaming success that I was hoping for. I discontinued my Hostess Club which relieved a lot of stress and follow-ups. I cut down to one blog, there's barely time to do one. And I have tried in an ongoing attempt to not put so much pressure on myself. This is a work in progress...

But not long after the year started, my mother became ill and died after being diagnosed with cancer for only 5 1/2 weeks. This as I'm sure you can imagine, made my plans and goals seem very unimportant.

The remainder of the year I can give you dates and occurrences, but really, the year for me can be summed up by simply saying "2008 is when I lost one of my best friends, the woman who would still call me 'baby', and the person who loved me so unconditionally." I've spent the rest of year keeping my head up, doing for my boys and husband and fulfilling obligations.

It's been a year of keeping my mouth shut when people have said things in an attempt to be.....'helpful'. A year of smiling and nodding. A year of waiting until everyone is in bed fast asleep before I can cry whole hearted in silent sobs.

But also, a year of appreciating just how blessed I had been!!! A year remembering my mother's kindness and compassion, affection and devotion, silliness and daffiness (I say with respect). So many live their lives at odds with their mothers. I was blessed to really love my mother - not just in retrospect, but while I had her!!

It's been a year of recognizing how good our God is! It's when we are at our lowest, that we can feel just how tangible Jesus is. When no one's words or hugs can really reach us, His peace and grace penetrate and touch deeper than someone 'with skin on' sitting right next to you.

For those who have asked/hinted/wondered... No, I am not depressed or in seclusion. If you have been concerned of this, it is simply because you do not see me enough to know that I have been going out, laughing and continuing on with life as one does. Although happiness was extinguished for some time, my joy never was (thanks be to God).

The loss will never go away, I think that's when I would worry. But I take my mother with me every day of my life. I get a chuckle when I do something stupid (as I do so often) and think how my mum would have loved to have heard about that. I get happy and sad at the same time when I fix a dish of hers that came out close enough to know it was her recipe. I remember learning to make those dishes with her. She will always be with me!!!!!!

Looking ahead to 2009, I considered many words that I thought should be my theme for the year. The word with which I have settled on is: "Order".

I want order in my life. I don't want to feel the strain of the 'captivity of activity'.

I will have order on my calendar so that I not only do what I must, but what I want to. I will schedule in family time, date nights with my husband and time with friends, and if someone calls with a task - we'll say "sorry, that day is booked" - no apologize and no guilt!

I will have order in my home. We have to be the record holders for 'piles'. Piles of school papers, mail, books, toys....ahhhh... We will apply the motto 'don't put it down, put it away'.

I will have order in my faith. I will create a 'devotions basket' complete with Bible, journal, note cards, pens, stamps, highlighters, sticky notes... I will schedule a time every day with the Lord. I will be a Christian with inertia (an object in motion stays in motion), and not grow weary on my journey with the Lord but cherish each step, and I pray, never take the gift of His grace for granted!

I will have order in regards to my well being. I will journal what I eat (even when I don't want to admit what I have eaten) so that I can keep track. Too easy to just take a bite of this and that - the journal will keep me accountable to myself. I will take my vitamins. I will take care of myself. No promises that I'll drop 5 clothing sizes - but I will take back control of my well being.

This is my goal for the year (keeping in mind I'm all too aware that life can throw us curve balls at any time). With God's help, I wont be chasing after my life, but live it the best way I can for His glory!!

Is it 2009 or 1980 something?..

2008-12-31T23:47:00.005-05:00

Time for new music!

As we enter another year, I thought it would be fun to look back, musically.

I went to a site that listed the top 100 songs for each year in the 80's.

There were tons of great songs to choose from (yes great! I was a teen in the 80's, it will always be great stuff to me). I just picked what sounded like fun to listen to at the moment.

Hope you enjoy them - and I hope they bring a smile to your face as it did me!

Do you remember Adam Ant?!! How about Dexy's Midnight Runners and the Stray Cats?!! Fun stuff!!!

I have to admit, I was enjoying the "new wave / glam pop" music from the early 80's more so than the 'long haired' rock stuff at the end of the decade.

Any favs that you can recall from the 80's?

Truly Wonderful!!

2008-12-28T20:58:00.003-05:00

Did you get to watch 'It's A Wonderful Life' this year?

I sometimes take for granted what a terrific movie this is! It is, in my opinion, one of the greatest movies ever with one of the greatest performances ever by Jimmy Stewart!!!!!

I know some years back it was played so frequently that the movie became sort of a holiday cliche. Thankfully, they have now cut back on it's airing (I only saw it listed twice).

(Now if only they'd do that for 'A Christmas Story'... enjoyable, but not nearly the same caliber of movie!)

Although I have seen this picture numerous times, this year the beginning touched me as if I had never seen it before.

Do you recall how it first begins?

It opens with the voices of people lifting up prayers of behalf of the beloved George.

"I owe everything to George Baily. Help him, dear Father."

"Dear God, please help Daddy, he's in trouble."

and so forth..

I have to admit, although I've been a Christian for about 16 years now, I don't think I've ever given any thought as to how our prayers must sound to God.

How cool is it to think that as God sits on His throne, He may be hearing dozens of prayers on your behalf!! Of course, at any given moment, I'm sure He's hearing millions of prayers - but He hears each and every one and gives each His utmost attention (He's so amazing, isn't He?!!!)

It gives new meaning to me when people tell me they'll pray for me. But even more so, it makes me realize just how important it is when I tell someone I will pray for them!!!

I think we can often just sort of say off the cuff 'oh, I'll pray for you." Sometimes I believe it's said because it is the thing to say. When you've heard someone has suffered a tragedy (a death in the family, loss of job etc...) it seems to be the automatic response. I don't think anyone means to not be genuine, but I think sometimes our best wishes can fall short.

But when you stop to think of how it must sound to God when dozens of people are lifting the same person up for the same purpose... WOW!!!

God tells us in Jer. 29:12 - 'You will pray to me and I will hear you.' How cool is that promise?!?!!!

I don't know about you, but in my life there have been many a time in my life when it's been dang near impossible to get a man to hear what I have to say!! But the creator of the world, the one whom holds the whole world in His hand, who knows all, sees all, hears everything I have to say!! He doesn't just hear us (you know how we moms can multi task and hear what one kid is asking while making dinner and fixing the other child's action figure that's lost it's head ..), He gives us His full attention!! He's not distracted as we can be.

I love how Beth Moore words it - ' He treats each of us like His favorite child'

Listen to the beginning part of the Jimmy Stewart classic and see how it affects you.

Have you been on the receiving end of lost of prayers? I know I was earlier this year! How amazing now to think of how that must have sounded to God.

If you have had someone pray for you - drink in just how blessed you are to have had someone go to our heavenly father on your behalf!!!

Just amazing!!!....

"Baby" Jesus

2008-12-23T20:48:00.004-05:00

"For unto you this day, in the city of David is born a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord."

People just love babies, don't they? For the most part I mean.

Sure, many a folk would rather not be sitting next to a family with an infant on a flight from Boston to Paris; but to walk by a stroller in the mall and see a tiny little bundled form brings a smile to just about anyone with a heart.

What a wonderful holiday Christmas is. It's easy to celebrate the birth of a baby. This baby happens to be the child of God, born of a virgin and is the savior of the world, but a baby.

Each year, we can look to 'baby Jesus'. It's wonderful and warms the heart.

This is all very good, no GREAT stuff!!!

What boggles my mind, is how we can look to this baby at this time each year, and enjoy him but once this baby becomes a man, we have a hard time hearing about him or talking about him. As long as we keep the word 'baby' before the name of Jesus, people aren't intimidated by him. Do you know what I mean?

Please don't misunderstand me, I'm not shaking my finger at anyone or looking down my nose in a condescending/self righteous manner. I've been on this side before. I get the feeling!

But why is it?

I remember someone saying to me once that talking about Jesus for a lot of people is like entering that room in a distant relatives home that no one is allowed to go in. It's only for the 'adults'. If you go in, you're terrified you'll touch something. It's awkward. Uncomfortable...

Jesus, whether you like to think of him with the word 'baby' before or not, was born with an amazing purpose!!

Yes, He was God incarnate. Emanuel, 'God with us'. But He came to share God's love, show us how to live according to God's plan and to create a path to heaven for us. Hey, He was born and died that we might live! Eternally!!! (John 3:16)

To only worship Him and focus on Him as a baby misses so much!

My friends, please don't miss all that He did for you!!

Let the celebration of Christmas be that of the beginning of your journey with Christ, and not the only part.

Be like the Wise Men of the East, and let this season of Christ's birth start your journey.

THE WISE STILL SEEK HIM!!

God bless you my friends - and I pray that you will have a beautiful Christmas and that your hearts will fill to overflowing with the love and hope of Jesus Christ!!

2008-12-02T10:41:00.003-05:00

"What do people notice about you?"

This is the question asked in the new Miracle Ear commercial.

The responses from the various actors go something like this:

"My devotion to my family."

"My love for animals."

"My smile."

"My zest for life."

"That I'm a good friend and a good listener."

And on it goes.

Great commercial, isn't it? How nice that what each person (although I do realize these are actors paid to give these up beat responses) when asked to give one thing people notice about them, all give very positive answers. What great self-esteem!

What was the first thought that went through my head before I even heard the first answer from the people in the commercial? "That I'm fat."

That was the first thing that came to mind. You know, like when you do word association. "Cat... dog" "Up.... down" "Fall... Fruity Pebbles" (I think a sea of fall foliage looks like a bowl of Fruity Pebbles... you may see a problem developing..)

After sticking with the commercial after my initial reaction, I felt a little ashamed of myself that my first thought was so negative. After all, if these paid, scripted actors can come up with positive answers, why can't I?

Here's the question - can I think of positive things about myself that others may notice? Yes.

The Bible tells us: Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Philipians 4:8

So in an effort to think of the positive, here are some things I think others may notice about me.

I'm a good mother & wife.

I love God.

I am loyal.

I have a good sense of humor.

I'm a pretty good cook/baker.

Ok, now it's your turn. What do people notice about you? Keep it positive!!

Eight

2008-11-22T22:55:00.003-05:00

Ok, I thought I'd continue the tile theme of numbers...

One of the things I am most thankful for in my life is my husband. This December we will celebrate our 8th wedding anniversary!!

In celebration of this happy event, I am changing my music to music from our wedding day.

Here's a little explanation.

1. Ave Maria - This was played at the church (Andrea Bocelli) while my mother and John's mother went up to light the unity candles. When it was our turn to take the two candles our mother's lit and light our own, we did not blow out their candles as is commonly done. We wanted to symbolize that we were not leaving our families to start our own, but that it was a continuing journey and that even though there are times (hee hee) that you may like to forget where you're from, we love them and they will always be part of us.

2. Silent Night - The gentleman who sang for us at our wedding (our friend Glenn) lead the guests in singing this song as John and I lit the unity candle. This is one of our favorite Christmas songs and we wanted to incorporate the season into our wedding. It was a lovely moment. As we do not have a recording of our guests singing this, I have put on the Bing Crosby rendition.

3. The Wedding Song - With words coming right from scripture, it is beautiful and simple. Glen did a wonderful job performing this for us!

4. Joy To The World - This song obviously tells of the joy of Christs' coming to earth. Again, we wanted to celebrate our marriage of course, but also share our faith with all those attending. Playlist didn't have the artist we had used, but this one works.

5. It Had To Be You - Our first dance. We had taken dance classes and did a combination of foxtrot and swing (we did swing during the big band piece in the middle). So fun!!! John was so cute, on the video you can see him counting. But you can also see that I'm leading. Boy, what does that say about this good Christian 'submissive' wife?! Great fun and the song so fits us!! And how can you go wrong with the great Harry Connick Jr?!!!

6. That's Amore - Can you have a wedding without this song? Our DJ did the old, 'Everyone pull out a dollar' routine to determine the winner of the centerpiece (a beautiful cream colored pitcher with gold trim filled with lovely silk poinsettias). But there was a twist (not a common one back 8 years ago)! The person left holding the dollar when the music stopped had to stand up and dance around the table. This happened twice, with someone from our church table doing a strip tease!! Hysterical!!!!!!!!!!! This was one of the songs played for the dance fest! Dean Martin part 1.

7. Memories Are Made Of This - We absolutely adored this song for our cake cutting! Our cake was beautiful: three octagon shaped tiers, different flavored cakes each level with white butter cream frosting and small red flowers. I know I ate the cake, there are pictures, but neither John nor I can remember ever tasting the cake. Dean Martin part 2

8. Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer - In lieu of the traditional glass clinking (so not enjoyable after about the second time!!!!), if guests wanted us to kiss (I think weddings are the only place we all encourage a public display of affection of this nature - at any other time it's like 'get a room'!) they had to stand up as a table and sing a song. Our table linens were white with red napkins. One of my family tables stood with napkin held up to their faces and sang Rudolph. Big gold stars for creativity!! I don't have their enthusiastic take on it, but here's Gene Autry.

9. Through The Years (short version) - My dad chose the song that he and I would dance to. No shock, my dad being a country music fan as am I, he chose the Kenny Rogers classic. Listening to it as I added it, it was hard to hear the line 'I can't remember when you weren't there'. (Looks like I'm headed into another hard period with the holidays coming and all - but God is good!!) Dad kept asking me if I was alright while we were dancing. I think he just felt awkward and didn't know what to say. Dad's not a man of many words. Classic choice Dad!!

10. A Song For My Son (short version) - It's hard to find a good song for the mother-son dance!! My sister Kerry told us about this song. John played it for him mom and that was it. Wonderful moment at the reception! The artist is Mikki Viereck

11. L*O*V*E - There was LOTS of dancing and a wonderful time had by all (we still have people tell us that our wedding was one of the most enjoyable ones they've ever attended - wonderful compliment!). We were encircled by all of our family and friends as we took to the floor for our last dance. We wanted an upbeat song and we both just love the old classics so this catchy little song from Nat King Cole was such a perfect choice. We danced the fox trot to this. Counting isn't as noticeable by this point in the evening and I do believe I let loose and actually let John lead!

12. Time To Say Goodbye - After our last dance we had the DJ play one of my favorite songs as our 'goodbye' song. I heard this song for the first time at a skating show at Harvard. I even remember it was Rene Rocca and Gorsha Sur skating in purple costumes. I was completely mesmerized by the music and struggled in the terrible acoustics to determine which language was being sung. I called the box office the next day to find out what the song was. They couldn't help me. It was during the Christmas shopping season by the time I finally found it (the skating show had taken place at the end of October). I was doing some holiday shopping when I decided just for the heck of it, I'd try wandering through one of the big music stores at the mall. A sales person saw me roaming around and asked if they could help. I told her that I'm sure she couldn't as I knew so little of what I was searching for. I said, there was a song at a skating show... it was mostly in a foreign language, but I caught 'Time to Say Goodbye' or something... She said, 'Oh yes. Right this was, I know exactly what you mean.' And she did!! (kudos to that wonderful sales woman) I brought home my first Andrea Bocelli cd that day and became a huge fan!! (this was pre-PBS showings of his performances) Any how, the chorus of the song translated into English is (roughly), "Time to say goodbye. Places that I've never seen or experienced with you. Now I shall, I'll sail with you upon ships across the seas, seas that exist no more I revive them with you." How beautiful and incredibly romantic!! This is a duet with Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman.

John and I had the most wonderful time planning our wedding, including all of the music choices. We really did everything as a team and loved every minute of it!!!

Seven

2008-11-19T21:50:00.002-05:00

My friend Michelle has tagged me to write seven random things about myself.
Here we go..

Once upon a time, I used to work out. Seriously!! I used to go to the gym 4 days a week (I worked a very early shift and was done for the day by 11:30 am) and then take step aerobics classes three nights a week. Honest!!! There are those who knew me back then and can testify to the accuracy of this random fact. I loved it!! It was the early 90's and so I would wear the bright pink and lime spandex shorts with long tank shirts. I was never 'thin', but nothing jiggled! (unlike now when as I type I've got flaps waving under my arms). I was as fit as could be.. once upon a time...

Two is the number of times I've been to NY City. The first was with my friend Jean to see the original Broadway cast of Les Miserables (my favorite musical) perform one of their last shows. The second time I went with John and his cousin Brian who lives in NY. Had a great time and went for tea and dessert at the Russian Tea Room.

Three and a half months I was on bed rest with my first pregnancy. It was very hard!! I felt horribly guilty not being at work. By about month two, I wasn't feeling quite so guilty. By then, I was just concerned with having a healthy baby.

Former (4) Celtics fanatic. Back in middle school I was a devout Celtics fan. Yelling at the tv and all! Kevin McHale was my favorite!!

Fifth grade was one of my absolute favorite years of school!! It was my first year with a male teacher. I was painfully shy and had no confidence in myself. He took me from the lowest levels in reading and math to the average level all because he showed me that he believed in me. Thanks Mr. Russel!!

Six is the age of my son that I'm really worrying about lately. I wish I knew how to help him. This will be a future post I'm sure.

Seven news is my favorite network for news. I really like their meteorologists.

If you read this and have a blog, feel free to consider yourself tagged!

T.H.A.N.K.F.U.L.

2008-11-13T21:30:00.004-05:00

I was working on a learning page with my kids and decided what's good for them is good for me.

Can we ever be too mindful of all that we have to be thankful for?

T ~ tissues * I have a cold right now, so what can I say?

H ~ hubby * I have a husband who loves me despite all of my pesky and sometimes moody ways. (I can admit it!) He works hard to provide for his family. He loves the Lord. He makes coffee for my girlfriends and I while we scrapbook. Now that's love! He isn't into burping, scratching and sports - AMEN! He will occasionally watch a Jane Austen movie with me! Now THAT's love!!

A ~ America * How blessed I am to live in this country!!! It may not be perfect (no one, and no place is!) but we have so much both in material possessions and in freedom that we take for granted every day! Veterans Day having just passed, I am especially thankful for all of our service men and women who serve us today and through the years!!!

N ~ Nestle * Who am I kidding? Anything chocolate!!! Now who am I kidding? Any baked good altogether!!!

K ~ kids * Two healthy handsome little men. They keep me on my toes and add to my graying hair daily, but I wouldn't trade them for the world!! One who is constantly into mischief, never too concerned if he's skating on thin ice and just when you think you can't take him any more, he flashes you what he calls his 'cheesy grin'. *melt*... The other who is sensitive and thoughtful, yet completely silly and goofy and likes nothing better then to make people laugh with his antics. My cup runneth over!

F ~ faith * This has been an especially tough year. Where would I be without my faith in the Lord? He sustains me through trying times and keeps joy in my heart when left to myself, it would be lost! My hard times are more bearable and my good times all the sweeter!!

U ~ Understanding * This is really for the friends and family who understand. Who just listen without judgement. Who don't try to compete. Who listen to my sorrows without looking at their watch or trying to change the subject. Who listen to my hopes and dreams without pulling out a needle to pop my balloon. Who support and encourage me on my journey. Who let me be me - warts and all! (ok, I don't have any warts at the moment, but imperfections galore!)

Thank you!!!

L ~ love * I am loved and have dear ones to love. Truly one of the best blessings of all!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-11T22:14:00.003-05:00

This word sums up my afternoon!

We have a family of ladies from our church who are incredibly wonderful to us, and I wanted to thank them. So I thought an afternoon tea would be just the ticket!

Off we headed to Cohasset to the Windsor Tea Room. After a few wrong turns (thank you my copilots!!), we found our way there. The little room was cozy and very charming (as is the center of Cohasset). Decorated with tea themed hanging quilts and an array of tea cups, saucers and tea pots we felt instantly at home.
Our tables were set with mismatched tea cups and sugar bowls.(LOVE that!) My cup had a fluted edge, rimmed with gold and delicate pink flowers. Does anything make you feel more feminine than drinking tea from a delicate little English China tea cup? (I happen to have an affinity for tea cups made in England)
I got such a kick out of the fact that the young ladies hadn't seen sugar cubes served before! They had only used them in a craft years prior.
The sounds I heard behind my friends chatter were that of soft music and the gentle tapping of spoons stirring. The whole atmosphere made one want to speak in soft tones and linger on topics of sewing and cooking. Being the only gal in the house, this was a much enjoyed feminine retreat - even if only for a few hours.
Once we had selected our tea from the numerous choices, we were each brought our own tea pot wrapped in the prettiest little tea cozies that are made by a friend of the owner.
They offered the typical tea time fare such as tea sandwiches and scones, along with various luncheon items like panini sandwiches and house salad. The food was delicious!! Home made vegetable soup with chunks of yummy veggies!! Just the thing for this chilly New England day! Plus the sandwiches and salad were all wonderful and not what you typically get from a restaurant. It was like your grandma was there making everything in the back. Absolutely yummy!!!

The very nice owner, Judy, came out and chatted with us for a bit and very kindly took this picture of us.

I loved that she had put a note on the back of the dessert menu that sits atop each table thanking everyone for their patronage during this difficult economic time. Also, it encouraged people to give their business to local shops.

If you're looking to treat yourself to a nice afternoon out, I highly recommend the Windsor Tea Room in Cohasset, MA.

Yummmm!

2008-10-29T22:10:00.002-04:00

Have you tried Tastefully Simple?

It's super yummy gourmet mixes! I love the Beer Bread (of course, it's one of their core products), Cinnamon Muffin Melts and Nana's Apple Cake!! Their spices are wonderful and their soups are total comfort food!!

My friend Missy is near her next goal with the company and is in need of some sales by the end of the month, so I'm shamelessly promoting for her. Go to her site to peruse the selection and place an order if anything appeals to you.

I'm hopefully going to be hosting a tasting for her soon - I'll keep you posted!

Best wishes Missy!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-22T22:34:00.003-04:00

New England Nights With Beth Moore

The First Cathedral

Bloomfield, Conn.

Friday, October 17th @ 7:00 pm

I was blessed to journey down and back to this event with six lovely ladies from my church.

Who is Beth Moore?

Gosh, about two years ago I was flipping channels and came across her on The Word network doing a ladies Bible study. I still watch her Wednesday evening studies (The James Robison Show, 10:30 pm - Wednesdays with Beth).

God has gifted her with a wonderful ability to teach what God has imparted to her with conviction, compassion and realness. Her teaching reaches me and has helped me grow in my faith with her contagious excitement for the Lord!!

So, without any further ado - here are some great thoughts/points/verses from the conference.

* 'Who has God been to you this week?' (asked by Travis Cottrell the worship leader). People yelled throughout the 3,000 plus crowd. "Savior" "Friend" "My Rock" "Hero" "Shelter" and so on. This was very moving and powerful!

* 'Is anyone blonder than she pays to be?' She's a hoot!

* II Corinthians 6:1 - Now is the time for God's favor

* 'What has your last 10 years been like?' I will answer this question in a future post.

* 'Just livin' on scripture' so love this!!!

* 'No more "I love you God" - but instead "I love you too" (1John 4:19 - We love Him, because He first loved us)

* 'I take a sunset personally' beautiful!

* 'When any kind of hardship comes along, apply the grace of God to the empty space.' (John 1:16 From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another.)

* 'God reserves the right to treat each one of us as His favorite child.'

* 'We'll always be given enough grace, we just need to apply it.' (Hebrews 12:15 See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.)

* 'Who would I be if I were to fully apply His grace?' WOW (1 Corinthians 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.)

There were many other amazing points and moments in the conference!! But truth be told.. it's about 11:30 at night, and I'm just too tired to type on. I feel like Judy Jetson with 'push-button finger'.

check her out: www.lproof.org/

Easing You Into 'New England Nights'

2008-10-22T00:19:00.002-04:00

I went with some wonderful gals from church to the 'New England Nights With Beth Moore' conference last Friday evening. To sum it up in a word ~ 'AMAZING'!!

I will blog on it tomorrow (hopefully). But for now, please listen to this first song playing on my Playlist from Travis Cottrell (who is the worship leader for Beth Moore's conferences, and a recording artist).
This is such an amazing song (how befitting!)!!

Do yourself a favor - sit back, close your eyes and take in what this song is saying.

I pray that it fills you to overflowing as it does me!

Duck, duck, goose!

2008-10-13T22:35:00.004-04:00

I have been tagged by my friend, Michelle.

I am to share 7 facts about myself on my blog - some random, some weird.

So, here we go..

1. Some things I'd love to do before I die: See an opera (not a little local production, but somewhere like the Met!), write a book and have it published (either a children's story and/or something to do with reaching out to women with the love of Christ), feel good in my own skin, not care what people think about me, get a college degree (or even a certificate)..

2. My mouth is a model of all that can be done in dentistry. (just about) I've had extractions, dental implant, root canal, cap, braces and fillings of course. Gotta love my English teeth!!

3. I love when my brothers and sisters call me 'kiddo'. It's not much, but they've always called me that since I really was a kid. Sometimes you just need to hear something that doesn't change.

4. When I was in Kindergarten, I used to run home from school to watch the Don Ho tv show. I loved listening to him sing 'Tiny Bubbles' while the beautiful hula dancers swayed in the background. I would ask my mother if I could have an operation on my eyes look pretty like the hula dancers. When she told me no, I'd try putting clothes pins at the corners of my eyes to make them stay that way. Um, it didn't work.

5. Just had my first mammogram a few weeks ago. Doc wanted a base line done as I'm now considered 'high risk'. For those of you who haven't experienced this yet... It's not that bad at all!! Nothing to be nervous about!!

6. A hobby I wish I had time & money for: Dancing. Not doing what Billy Crystal called 'the white man's overbite', but ballroom dancing! John and I took lessons before we were married, and I absolutely loved it!!!! It's fun, great exercise and incredibly romantic. But it's also very pricey!! We say that one day we'll at least do the course at the high school. Hopefully a time will come when we can get away and do that. But these days, I'm so out of shape I usually feel far too inhibited to get out on to the dance floor. One day, one day. I liked the Foxtrot and Swing the best of what we learned.

7. Two of the best weeks of my life were in July 1989. Two of my friends and I went to England for vacation after graduating from high school.

Any time I liked a boy in high school, they like Lisa, without fail! My friend Chris was intelligent and outgoing. She had a steady boyfriend a good portion of the time. I was shy. To guys I was a pal, or someone to seek out to copy homework...

But upon traveling across the pond, it was like we had entered the Twilight Zone. Do you remember the episode with the pig faced people? It was like that! I'm not saying who the 'pig faces' were, just that, I had found my people!

Instead of the men liking my friends, they actually liked me!! Seriously!! I was asked to dance, had drinks sent to me and so forth. I was called 'lovely' over and over again. It was marvelous all together!!!

But then we came home and life went back to reality. Oh well... great two weeks while it lasted!!!

Enjoying Autumn

2008-10-08T21:18:00.001-04:00

'I Feel Pretty' NOT!!

2008-10-06T23:00:00.005-04:00

Ok, so first, my uncle asked me when I was having a gastric bypass (not in those exact words - but seriously, this is what he asked me).

Then my son asked me if I was going to 'turn my hair black again'. (I actually color it brown, but he's just asking when I'm going to ditch the gray)

Today, I had a friend's boss ask what hard work I do because upon shaking my hand he exclaimed, 'wow, you have rough hands'.

I'm not pulling a Maria prancing about singing 'I feel pretty' I can tell you!

Rather, I'm wondering what color top I can wear to diminish the appearance of this hump I clearly have upon my back!

Ahhhh!..

Ok, I've bought the hair color. check!

I'll use the hand treatment I got from having a Mary Kay party a couple of years ago, tonight after my shower. check!

And I guess, since the 'desire to be good' ain't happenin' - I'm going to have to force the issue before I can no longer force myself into my jeans. not gonna jump the gun with a 'check' on this one - I'll keep you posted.

Life gets in the way of taking care of myself. Physically, mentally, and sometimes spiritually as well. There are always a thousand things to do. So much swirling in my mind.

*Incidentally, I'm not knocking surgical procedures for weight loss - just the fact that someone approached me and asked when I was going to get one!

2008-10-01T11:23:00.004-04:00

"Boys, calm down! You're running too fast!"

wait for it...

wait for it....

"BANG!"..... "Sorry" (in sing-songy voice)..... silence.... "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!"

Dad goes around corner to asses the damage...
"Oh my G_ _ !" (we don't normally every take the Lord's name in vein - but this was a stunner)

3 year old has gash on his head above his eye brown.

6 year old feels terrible and starts to cry when he sees that his 'tag' sent his brother into the door frame and the door frame into his brother's head.

Dad puts pressure on wound. I call doctor.
We leave for the ER.
4 + hours we come back home with 3 stitches and two very tired children. (and one very tired Dad).

Now all in all, our ER experience was fine. You can never go to an ER and expect to be in and out. Not in these here parts any how. We were there for about 2 1/2 - 3 hours (the rest was commuting time).

Our children I am happy to report, were actually very well behaved!! We went prepared though with books, Leapster, snacks, action figures and play dough. Yes, play dough!! They have a kids table, and if it makes them happy for a little while, I'm all for it!!

Some other families unfortunately, weren't so well stocked. We must realize however, that in some cases, due to the nature of the ER visit, the families just bolted out of their homes. Some were single moms doing the best they could to bring junior along kicking and screaming and so forth. We were happy to have little ones join us for story time and were glad to lend out a book.
And as stated in an earlier post (support), we need to just support each other as parents, and not be so quick to judge anyone who simply doesn't do things they way we do it.

So with that, I'll keep my musings to myself - except on one point.

One woman who had brought little "Johnny" to the ER on her own, really didn't show much consideration for other patients or even for her own child. She let her child run amok (ok, many kids were running all around. To a certain extent, they are kids and so that's going to happen). Where her story really varies from the rest of the crowd however, is in the fact that she kept allowing Johnny to go up to one gentleman in particular.
This man had on a bracelet, meaning, he was himself there to be seen. He was as the song goes, "A whiter shade of pale". He was lounging on the seat in such a way that showed he had absolutely no energy (which was further confirmed as he took himself into the exam room). And.. he was a stranger.
Yet, with all this, Johnny's mother thought it was not only perfectly acceptable to let him bother the man, she actually was enjoying watching it. At least, that's how I took the dreamy smile on her face as she took it all in.
Johnny was having a great time running 2 rows away from mom and then taking a running leap up onto the seat next to the man. Then jumping up and down while holding onto the mans arm which had been resting on the back of the couch. He then proceeded to kick the man, give him a 'high five' on the back of the man's hand. Yell and laugh loudly right into the man's face and so forth.
Lets just forget for a moment that this man may actually have feelings or that he has a right to sit there without being accosted by little Johnny, because this clearly was of no concern to the mother, however, what about Johnny? Didn't she think for a moment that her young man could catch whatever this gentleman had by touching him and getting right into his face? Who was this man? Was he mentally stable? Let's face it, he could have just snapped and shoved the little cherub out of his face or really hollered at him.
No worries! He wasn't bothering her for that time, so she just sat back and enjoyed the view.

So my point is this: I don't care what your parenting style is: laid back, 'helicopter', somewhere in the middle - whatever. If it works for you and your family, great!! But goodness gracious, show a little bit of judgement and compassion for those around you! No one should have to deal with a strangers child being all over them, especially when they are already clearly feeling terrible!

On a happier note:
My son had male nurse 'McDreamy' in the ER. I'm just sayin'.....

Sleep?

2008-09-29T22:50:00.002-04:00

I'm tired.. pretty much all the time.

So, get more sleep - right?!

But I can't.

Insomnia? No.

My mind is always going.
What do I need to get done tomorrow?
What didn't I do today that I should have?
Why did I say that? How stupid!

Also - evening is my 'me time'. How horribly selfish sounding. But I so need 'me time'! No one asking anything of me. Get done what I need to without interruption. And hey - blog a little.

But that's it! I'm off to bed!!

Good night all!!!

1958

2008-09-28T20:45:00.007-04:00

What Year Do You Belong In?

1958

You're fun loving, romantic, and more than a

little innocent. See you at the drive in!

Well this makes perfect sense of course!

I love Happy Days and Laverne & Shirley.

Have you heard my playlist? Lots of oldies on it!

And have you seen me lately? I'm always walking around with a cardigan.

So there you go!

What was going on in 1958?...

Best Picture - Bridge On The River Kwai

Elvis is inducted into the Army

The cost of a first class stamp goes from .03 to .04 in August.

Tommy Edward's 'It's All In The Game' was the biggest song that year.

Here's what I would have looked like in 1958 (per yearbookyourself.com).

And here's their idea of what girls looked like around the time I actually graduated. About half the girls I graduated with did have this hairdo.
Thanks Michelle for another fun post!!!

Picture This

2008-09-09T23:26:00.019-04:00

I'm taking this posting idea from my friend Mich elle's blog.

For each question select a favorite photo from sites like Google Images or Flickr to answer it.

When you've done this, please link back.

Have fun!!!

My Age:

A Place I'd Like To Travel

My Favorite Place

My Favorite Object

My Favorite Food

My Favorite Color

Where I Was Born

Where I Live Now

Past Pet

Past Love

My Screen Name

My First Name

My Middle Name

One Of My Bad Habits

First Job

What I'm Listening To

Favorite Holiday

What I'm Doing Right Now

Favorite Thing To Do

My Birthday

Ladies Need More Support Then Their Bra Can Offer!

2008-09-05T10:13:00.006-04:00

Ladies ladies ladies....

We often are quite offended by the stereotypes that are projected on women.

"Caddy"
"B****y"
"always bickering with friends"

But the fact of the matter is, we sometime bring it on ourselves! I hate to say it, but it's true.

One major pet peeve of mine began back when I was pregnant with my first son. As comments came and went with each passing month, and then continued and became more frequent once he was born, I came to realize something; Women do not support women!!!

Yes, I'm sorry, but very often this is the truth!!!!!

I have joked with my friend Sarah for 6 years now that I want to write a book on this subject. I then was just discussing this with my friend Jen today.

One of the big areas in which we do not support each other, is parenting.

"Oh, you're having a boy? That's too bad."

"What do you mean you aren't breastfeeding still? That's the best way to show your love to your baby."

"You wont sleep again until he goes to college! Ha ha"

"He isn't speaking yet? What's wrong with him?"

"Why are you having him tested? You have to stop comparing and just love him."

"He's climbing! Do you see he's climbing?"

"You haven't signed your kids up for activity 137 yet?"

"Would you just sit down, they're fine. You don't have to watch them 24/7!"

"Wow, if my kids behaved like that I'd spank them!"

The above is just a tiny smattering of comments I have heard from women over the years. Take another looksie. Do these strike you as encouraging?

Why is it we are so prone at times to look at another mom just to see her every flaw? (whether it be a true flaw, or simply just not 'our way')

I personally get most picked on for being what some call a 'helicopter mom'. Have you heard of this one? It's where a mother doesn't just sit, she walks around the playground keeping an eye on her kids (to some, this is hovering).

Other mom's are super laid back - and there are those who would criticize women for being that way. Do you work out of the home? Stay home? Allow tv? Not allow tv?... on and on.

What I think we all need to realize is that we all parent the best way we know how. Our parenting styles are shaped by our life experiences, belief systems, current life situations and our children's personalities.

When I think about my parenting style and what has shaped it, I'm reminded of many past experiences that have contributed to making me who I am. ~
At 8 I was home alone with my sister and her friend at 11:30 pm. My parents were out. We hear a knock on the door and see a man looking through the windows at the top of the door. This stranger kept trying to open the door and was telling us to let him in. He was drunk, and clearly in the wrong place. We sat there clinging to our buttons while my sister called and asked my parents to come home. Just before my parents arrived home, the man stumbled off.

A few years later I had gone with some of my family members to the Jr. High school where they played volleyball once a month. I went outside with another girl to get something out of my dad's car. As we walked back up to the school, a car with 3 older teenage boys drove up. The boys told us to get in the car. We just stared. They said it again and a knife was pulled from the back seat. We tried to go back in, but the doors were locked. Just as one of the boys started to get out of the car, my dad came out to get a drink. If my dad hadn't come out then.......

Just out of high school, went on a first date. He was bringing me home when he stopped a block from my home. Thankfully, my screaming scared him and I was able to get out of the car and run home.....

I have experienced fear (in more situations than what I've listed). I know what it is to be in a dangerous situation as a child/young woman. These events have contributed to shaping who I've become and how I parent.

People can site statistics, articles, studies, so called 'doctors' on tv and so forth as to why they believe what they believe when it comes to parenting and to justify their stance on what is 'correct'. However, I am of the firm belief that when you strip it all down, what it really comes down to is this - "You should parent exactly the way I do because that's the correct way."

What truly fascinates me about this tendency is this, I have yet to meet anyone who firmly states that their parents were absolutely perfect! Yet amazingly, there are women of every generation who are adamant that their ways are the right ways and will quickly judge anyone who doesn't meet with their standards.

Ladies, can't we just accept each other differences and all?
Can't we come to the understanding that we are all uniquely made and have beliefs and life experiences that vary greatly?
Isn't the most important thing that we each parent our children with love and do the best job that we can?

Please understand, I will be the first one to admit that I too can be prone to wanting to judge someone with a different take on things. It's something I've been very convicted about as I have been on the receiving end of the judgement and have listened to friends who have called heart sick over someones criticism.

Women have such an amazing capacity to love and share and yes, even to encourage.
I pray we will all do our best to give that love, and share encouraging words with other mothers as we all continue our work at the toughest and best job in the world!

Let us shed the bad stereotypes! Encourage one another!! We all need more support than our bras can offer!!

Hebrews 10:24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

The Wildest Roller Coaster of All

2008-08-28T23:21:00.007-04:00

I'm surprised I have not suffered whip lash over these past few weeks.

Steep climb, head tilted back with no head rest to cradle my noggin.
Click click click.. wait for it... whooosh - rushing wind whips through my hair and my eyes blink rapidly from the tearing wind.

Turns making my stomach leap and twists making me feel like my heart is going to bound out of my chest.

This wild ride is simply called, life.

This has been the topic of much discussion in my home lately.
With all of the ups, downs, twists and unexpected turns - what else can we say other than, 'that's life.'

The ups have been great, as the 'ups' in our lives usually are.

The downs have been low indeed.
The downs have left me on my face before the Lord. 'Be merciful to me, oh Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, and my soul and my body with grief.' Psalm 31:9
I am comforted by the knowledge that he hears my cries. 1 John 5:14

The ups have been tremendous blessings. Moments on mountain tops where my eyes behold such beauty and with pure clean air filling up my lungs to sustain me through the inevitable valleys to come. "..but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:30

I continue to muddle through a wintery season of change (yes, I do know that it is still technically summer despite the children's return to school - but the season my life is in currently is defenitely winter). But my greatest comfort is that I do not walk this chilly path alone. Yes, I do have my husband who is my best friend and help mate - but I have the greatest one of all with me also.
There's a song by Natalie Grant called 'Held'. It's an incredibly beautiful song, that strictly speaking, does not apply to me. But I do feel that it comforts people going through all sorts of difficulties and sorrows that need to know that God is always here for us and when things are really tough, God is always here to hold us.

Now, there are things in my life that I can not fix, change or in any way do anything about. But then there are things that are in need of my attention and commitment that I really need to be about. I need to hold fast to one of my favorite verses found in one of my favorite books of the Bible, James. (James is found near the end of the New Testament - I highly recommend reading it if you need some encouragement and direction.)
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

So now, I'm am going to strap on my seat belt, flip down that metal bar thingy, and brace myself for this continuing thriller - the roller coaster of life!

Twas The Night Before 1st Grade

2008-08-26T22:35:00.004-04:00

Twas the night before 1st grade and in my thoughts I was lost

what will this year hold for him, what will be the cost

On the bus for the first time, shall he know what to do

stop worrying silly woman, he's excited to go too

Will he make new friends, find a buddy in class

if he's meant to he will, whether a lad or a lass

Will he get hurt, be teased for his broken speech

his teacher is kind, to those kids acceptance she will teach

Such dreams and hopes and wishes I have for my first son

courage I need for me, and pray he gets a ton

Why do I worry so, 'ye of little faith' my Lord must cry

I must trust in your providing and protection by and by

Heavenly Father, help me to trust him to your care each day

knowing you want what's best for him and love him even more than words can say

Bless my little man as he goes to study and learn

and rest in the assurance of your perfect concern.

What will the cost be of this year that lies ahead?

Fleeting time is the cost, as I see this growing boy slumber in his bed.

Thank you my Father for these boys with which we have been blessed

guide their steps as they grow, and help me be filled with your peace and rest.

What's In a Name?

2008-08-23T00:05:00.002-04:00

I'm continuing to plug away on getting everything done in order to become a licensed family day care provider.
Orientation - check
Application Packet in - check
Referral Requests out - check
CPR/FIRST Aid class... still trying to fit that in
Health Form - bummer - need a physical to get that completed. Scheduled.... waiting...

Then there's the list of to-do's in and out of the house.

Here's one thing I can get done sooner than later. Pick a name for my business.
It needs to reflect the fact that I will be offering both day care and a preschool program (legally, I can say preschool enrichment program), and that this is a Christian home. (please take part in my poll to the side!!)

Once I decide on a name, I can complete my handbook, contract form, business cards, etc...
I was so wishing I had cards on me this evening as the family strolled around the classic car show at Wal-Mart (how small town!) and chatting to mother's of young children. It would be so easy to hand off a little business card.

I have 4 slots open - but wont be licensed until the end of October I'm thinking. Can I advertise?.. no?....

Then my nerves come into play:
Will they come.. I'm building it.. will they come?

Please come! I'm so looking forward to it!!!!!

W.O.F. II

2008-08-10T23:03:00.006-04:00

I could run down a list of things I did this past week to explain why I have not written additional posts as promised regarding the Women of Faith conference, but I'll spare you!

Unfortunately, due to this delay, I'm going to have to resort to bullet points about the event as my mind these days resembles 'Dear Henry's' bucket. (come on, you remember the song from when you were a kid, right?!)

So here are some of the highlights of the conference for me.:

* The award for coolest chick to wear (and pull off) a bright orange leather jacket (and a black and silver jacket, and a shimmery silver jacket....) goes to Patsy Clairmont! This petite little powerhouse is just the most with-it 'mature' sister-in-Christ I've ever come across. She is just sooo cool!! Look at her!! I'm not that hip now in my 30's - I can't even imagine being so stylin' at her age!! I must add, not only did she rock her edgy jackets, she also wore sky high bright red shoes!! You go girl!!!!

* Sticking with my girl Patsy here for a moment, she also gets my award for the message that has stayed with me the strongest! I'm not going to go on and on explaining her story that she tells so beautifully, with such emotion and of course, humor when you can simply watch it here. Do yourself a favor, watch this!!!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HpRO8g9Qds

* The funniest moment of the conference goes to Anita Renfroe! Anita was part of the pre-conference ticket and I wouldn't have missed her for anything!! This gal is such a hoot!!! You may be familiar with her from her YouTube hit, The Mom Song, or from her appearances on Good Morning America. She had me and the rest of The Garden in stitches from the moment she came on until she began singing her closing song (which wins an award further down). She did a great bit where she shared a new outlet for all of us ladies when men scratch their heads and start thinking..'oh, it's THAT time!' She taught us to now blame everything on our thyroid. Another great moment was when she sang 'Maybe Next Time I'll Think Before I Eat'. (check it out!)

* After receiving a rousing standing ovation, Natalie Grant took to the stage for an encore. This encore gets my vote for Best Musical Moment! This beautiful young mother of twin girls got up and sang His Eye Is On The Sparrow with out music. It was so incredibly beautiful!! We all just stood amazed as she ministered to us with her beautiful voice. By the end, people were yelling 'sing it girlfriend', 'amen sister' and I do believe I heard a 'bring it home baby'! Yes she could hit the high notes and did a great job with those big notes that are so popular these days. But what really got me was her lower register. So rich and beautiful. (Boy, you'd think I know something about singing... but I don't - other than that I can't. You're welcome!) Tears streamed down my face at the beauty of her voice singing the very true words of the old familiar hymn. Please please record this Natalie!!!!

* Most heart tugging moment goes to Anita Renfroe. I never would have thought that this vote would go to the winner of the 'funniest moment'.. but it's true. After laughing for what seemed like hours at Anita's message, she finished it up with a song. Before singing this song (Which I have to refer to as 'this song' because I have no idea of the name.) she spoke of people in our lives who have come along and made us better people, who made such and impression and who are partially responsible for who we are today. This song was dedicated to those people. My mother died (I still can't even type those words without crying.) 4 1/2 months prior to the W.O.F. event and she was of course the person that this song was about for me. I'm not very comfortable grieving in front of people. I find just talking about my mum seems to make people uncomfortable. So I had to bite my lip and dig my nails into my hand in order to prevent myself from balling out loud. I looked down and tried to hide my reaction, but was found out by a few of the lovely ladies around me. I sat there thinking, 'Please don't try to hug me, please! I can keep it together if you just don't try to hug me!' As great as the song was, I was so happy it didn't go on one more line for I knew I would have had to run for the ladies room. So thanks Anita for making me cry and feel awkward ;) And also, for reminding me just how much my mother's memory will always mean to me!!!!!!!!!!

* Best thing about the return home.... Getting out of my friend Deb's car to find one of my boys plastered to the window and the other running out of the house to greet me!!!! The trip to Heidi's for ice cream with the gals on the way home would have to be a close second though ;)

Ladies First (Post I of WOF)

2008-07-31T13:36:00.004-04:00

This time last week, I was packing up my children and myself. I was gearing up to drop my kids off with my sister so that I would be ready to leave at 7:30 the next morning with the gals from church to attend the Women Of Faith pre-conference in Boston!

One of the wonderful things about these conferences is that the fun isn't contained to just the function facility alone! It started the moment we gathered together for our trip into town!! I've included a few photos from our trip on the 'T'.

Aren't we blessed to be women? I love that when I see a friend I can go up and we throw our arms around each other. We can talk about how excited we're feeling about this event which we have been anxiously anticipating. We then start to share why this is coming at such a good time in our life.... I love that we can share!!

I love that between each session, we laugh about what we've heard, talk about what snack we are craving now, or be completely open and share that our behinds are crying out due to the punishing folding chairs and necks are aching from looking straight up at the mother of all screens.

I was very fortunate to be able to stay with some of my girlfriends at a hotel Friday night. Like teenage girls we got into our jamies, ate some junk food and chatted until the wee hours. Such fun!! Such great stuff!!! So wonderful to share your thoughts and feelings knowing that we each have different life experiences, and have endured a multitude of journeys that only make each woman a far more dear friend with a wealth of wisdom to share!

And laughter - oh the laughter!! Whether it be recounting the stories told by each speaker - or sharing our own zany lives! Great stuff laughter. Really, the best!! It was great to be able to share a couple of my Mum's silly escapades with a few gals as we stopped on our way home for some yummy ice cream!! Food, fellowship and laughter.. ok, now that's the best!!

As terrific as the WOF conference was - it was made far better by being able to share it with such dear ladies!!!!

next... the music

There Is a Season

2008-07-30T23:26:00.002-04:00

I have been contemplating this post for days.

Had many great ideas - I have (as always) so much to say!

But tales of my weekend at WOF will have to wait...

To be honest, I am just having a really hard few days.

I came home from the retreat to a family anxiously awaiting my return. I was greeted by one child bounding out the door and the other plastered in the window watching me walk up the drive. My husband at the top of the stairs with a smile and dinner. It doesn't get much better than that, does it?!!

After a little dinner, my husband filled me in on the weekend's events. He then handed me some cards that a few friends had mailed to me and one given to him at my sister's cookout from a family member.
I opened the cards, amazed at how some of my friends are so good at remembering birthdays!! But then the last card.. The one that should have made me happy as it had money in it! ;) Instead sent me into a fit of tears. It was a card from my father. It was a pretty card with a purple iris on the front. Inside, it was signed "Happy Birthday - Love Dad"
"Love Dad".. in his writing. My first birthday card not signed "Love Mum & Dad"

This has left me in a valley for days. But then this morning, I got the call. "Hi Honey. Happy Birthday".. It was my Dad. He has never called on my birthday. The call I've received since moving out of my parents has been "Hello my angel! Happy Birthday my little love!" - always the same. Always those 8 words beginning the call.

It only seemed obvious that what would have been my parent's 50th anniversary, Mother's Day and my mother's birthday would be hard. But why is it that my birthday has been the hardest time for me since my Mum has died? I can hardly speak of it for fear of bursting into tears!

I had no idea that this would be such a difficult time!! I have so many obligations coming up - and I had been fearful to take them on months ago - but then thought I'd have to be in much better shape by now. I should have trusted my gut on this!!
I'm always so afraid of what others think of me. 'Will people think I'm crazy or pathetic for still grieving so much?'
I guess one good thing about ageing is that people tell me once you hit 40 (I have a few more years yet) you really begin to not care what other's think. Boy, I'll enjoy that.

So hear I am, trying to keep my chin up. Going along with the daily routines and trying to get some special activities in with the boys. Trying to keep up with my house hold chores. etc....

The Bible says that to every season there is a purpose under heaven (Eccl. 3:1). I think I have tried so desperately to suppress this season of grief. I don't think my mind/emotions, whatever you want to call it, will let me suppress it any longer. I need to get through the next few weeks and then take some time for myself. Not something I'm comfortable with. However, I think it's very necessary.

Sorry to have such a sad post yet again!!
Hopefully my season to weep and mourn will turn into a season of laughter (Eccl. 3: 4) and dancing soon!
I'll post about the retreat soon!

WOW!... No really - WOW!!

2008-07-27T20:17:00.003-04:00

I went with some of my pals from church to the Women of Faith conference ~ Infinite Grace this weekend in Boston.
Amazing, incredible, outstanding, hysterical, moving, encouraging, inspiring... WOW!!

I have much more to share than adjectives.. but no time at the moment.
Watch for the days ahead to hear about this fabulous (oops.. another adjective) weekend!

I'm sure it will take many posts to cover it...

Brillante Weblog Premio 2008

2008-07-21T15:34:00.003-04:00

Wow -an award! I've never been given an award before... ;)
"You like me, you really like me" - (poor Sally! she'll never live that down!)
My friend Michelle has bestowed this award on me and in response, I am to post my answers to the following questions:

1. Ten Years Ago....
In 1998 - I met and fell in love with my now husband, John! I went to Bermuda that spring with my family on a cruise (great time!!). I was working at a local company as an administrative assistant. And, I was a lot thinner! ;)

2. Five Things On Today's 'To - Do' List:
Host/lead P.A.L.S. ('summer school' in my home). Put away laundry I did at my sisters (washer broke!). Cook and clean, play and take care of boys. Make/write out very overdue thank you notes for boys birthday gifts. Get ready for tomorrow's Bible Study.

3. Snacks I Enjoy:
(Note: quicker to write what I don't enjoy! I'll just give an abridged list)
pretty much any baked good (cookies, brownies, etc..)
Boursin cheese with crackers
Movie popcorn
Ice cream

4. Things I Would Do If I Were A Millionaire...
Pay off bills (I know - not fun - but necessary)
Take care of my family
Take family vacation
Give to charity (like St. Jude's)
Help friends get on the mission field
And in general, I would continue working on the many ministries that I am now, and be able to enjoy it and give it my all with no concern to needing to earn money! There's so much to be done!!

5. Places I Have Lived...
Braintree
Halifax
Hanson

I am supposed to tag 5 bloggers...
I really only know 2 bloggers personally, and 1 tagged me!
So here you go Jen!

help..

2008-07-15T09:01:00.001-04:00

Ok - any ideas on how to make my slide show fit?...

Wow - that's the way to be!

2008-07-14T22:51:00.002-04:00

I was with a group of ladies from church this Saturday whom I have come to sincerely love and appreciate deeply!! We meet each month for our Heart 2 Heart group where we are able to pour our hearts out to each other in an environment filled with love, respect, compassion, understanding and in confidence!! Ahh... the ability to vent with complete peace of mind, knowing your dirty laundry will not be pinned up on a clothes line for all to see!

The second Saturday of the month is quickly becoming one of my favorite days, and I look forward to it immensely!!

This month, Psalm 139 was mentioned and as we read it, the words really penetrated my heart and I felt God teach me something almost immediately! (which is quite a feet being as thick headed as I can be!!)

Psalm 139 is a beautifully written song by David (though 100% holy inspired by The Lord).

It begins with David offering praise to God for being all knowing - being of full knowledge of every aspect of David's being, thoughts, actions - that He knows it all before time existed. He so aptly writes: vs. 6 'Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.'

Boy oh boy, I feel that way many times as I study the Bible or as I am no my knees in prayer. As truths about the Lord and His ways start to sink in.. as I start to think I'm getting a grip on things, I become completely overwhelmed (in a good way!!) by how BIG God is!! how mighty!! how Loving!! how forgiving, gracious,..... I am left just marveling 'God, you are just amazing!!'

There's a verse that may be very familiar to many, vs. 14, 'I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.'

When we look at our children, I think we find this verse so easy to believe, don't we? But what about when you think of it in terms of yourself? Speaking for myself, it can be very hard for me to take in. Poor self-esteem? Am I too 'humble' to allow myself see me in these terms?.. maybe... But here's the key: Simply think on the fact (not just think - no - really meditate on it and prayerfully ask that our hearts be able to accept this truth) that God's word says 'your works are wonderful'! Because if we in fact do believe in the latter part of the verse 'I know that full well', then how dare we have 'low self esteem'? We are part of His work, are we not? Therefore, are we not wonderful in His eyes? And if we are wonderful in our makers eyes, the maker of the whole universe, who are we to think lowly of His creation?... (there's something to chew on... I'm still chomping away)

But here's what really got me about this Psalm; there are 24 verses in this song of David's. The first 18 verses praise God so beautifully!! The next 3 deals with David's enemy's. The last 2 he asks God to search his heart for anxious thoughts and any offensive ways that God may lead him in the correct way.

75% of this Psalm praise God!!

12.5% are petitions to deal with his enemies who speak out against God!

8.33% are petitions asking God to put him on the right track!

That's the way to be isn't it?!!

What if we were to spend 75% of our life praising!! Joyous hearts in song, or uplifting thoughts. Praising our heavenly father! Could we be down, self loathing, lazy, grumpy when we are consumed with praise for another - for God?!!

What if we were to only dedicate 8% of our life talking about ourselves?...

Then, give what we can't control to God knowing He is fully capable of handling any situation.

I think the vast majority of the time when my spirit is down, I can chalk it up to 'self'. How I choose to see things, how I look at things... I am going to make the choice to spend the majority of my days praising!!

Here's a challenge for us all:

Take vs. 14 and insert your name!

'I will praise you Lord for Diane is fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, Diane knows that full well.'

This is not blasphemy - it's just a matter of taking scripture and making it personal to help us take it in as fully as we can.

Go ahead - give it a try.

Start spending 75% of your days praising Him, and remember that you are part of His wonderful work!!

In an effort to SIMPLIFY

2008-07-14T00:18:00.003-04:00

Ok - so my attempt to simplify in 08' has not been very successful thus far...
However, I will not give up hope completely!!!

In an effort to get back on the wagon... ok, I never really got on... I kind of watched it longingly from afar whilst running around incessantly in busy little circles ... I am cutting down to just one blog.
My 'Comfy Crop' blog really is not necessary. I am able to post crop dates on this blog and I really don't do much else with my scrapbooking site - so this will be fine - and, simpler!!

You may notice some little changes, but hopefully, it will all be for the best!

I hope you have all had a great weekend!!

Big challenges for myself this week! Much to be done in pursuing a new adventure in my life.

Prayers always welcome!!

I'll keep you posted!

Happy Birthday

2008-07-11T23:38:00.002-04:00

My mum loved birthday cake!!
I remember there was a time years ago when she was craving it all the time. One of us would make a run to the bakery to bring her back a little fix. But still, the cravings continued.

Finally, after an evening of continuous 'subtle hints' about how greatly she would love to eat some birthday cake - a friend of the family showed up with a 'birthday party'!!
She brought party hats, noise makers, and of course.. a birthday cake written out to my mother. Actually, I believe it read "Happy Birthday Ace"... that name is another story for another time...
It was no where near her actual birthday mind you.... But do we really have to wait until our birthday for a little indulgence and a reason to celebrate?

As memory serves, this did the trick. I don't recall the cravings persisting much after that time.

Another cake memory involving my mother always tickles John..
It was my 26th birthday. This was a very hard birthday for me, as silly as that sounds. You see, I had just gotten divorced and was feeling horrible (yes, another story for another time).. My mother decided that for my birthday, she'd get me a Brian's cake. Brian's is an amazing bakery in Braintree that makes confections to flip for!!!!
All day, I had thought of this cake... couldn't wait to get home, have a family dinner and dig into this cake!! I finished up work (another story... I think I'll do this as my birthday approaches) drove hurriedly home, ran up the steps, burst into the house with a eager 'hello'!!...
Silence....
No one was home....
But then, I spotted 'the box' on the kitchen table.
White with tucked in sides.... the scent of chocolate and sugar permeating the air....
Dinner?.. I didn't need no stinkin' dinner!! I was ready for that cake...
I opened that box with great expectations, only to find... 1/3 of a cake...
What? Where did the other 2/3's go?
MUM!... She took 2/3's of my birthday cake to BINGO...
2/3's of my present went off to church to energize the ladies while waiting for N32!!!!
Is that too funny, or what?!!

Oh well... Mum, you gave us a lot to laugh about.
Happy Birthday Mum!!!
We'll have some birthday cake for you!
I LOVE YOU & MISS YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Up Up And Away!!

2008-06-26T23:32:00.010-04:00

Launched rockets today with my hubby, two boys and my father-in-law. Had a great time!! Beautiful weather, happy kids, great memories made!

As I sat watching the scene before me - my husband hooked up the rocket, inserted safety key, held down the launch button, heard the faint sizzling sound of the rocket being ignited, watched as the faces of my family turned skyward following the path of the rocket and burst into grins when the rocket broke apart and fell to earth gently with a sway as the parachute caught the air, it occurred to me... This is very much the pattern of my life.

So much of life is preparation, isn't it? Learning skills to be able to proceed to the next event. We learn to walk to then run, to then get places with purpose... Once we're prepared, we then try to ignite our imaginations, passions, ambitions to 'go somewhere'. We take flight. Then, we frequently run out of steam, and hope to fall as gently as the rocket did.

If the scene had ended here, it would be sad indeed - but alas, there is hope!! there is more to the story!

Once everyone stopped clapping or gleefully commenting on how high the rocket had shot that time, the race was on to gather the parts to start over. My oldest son ran after the dismantled rocket and enthusiastically rushed back to his Dad to have it reassembled to be shot off again.

My husband carefully rewound.. um.. the things (hey - I didn't say I was an expert at this rocket thing, I just learned something from it), put it back in the rocket, added a new ignitor and attached it back to the base. There we go - ready for another try!! This happened many times until the sun got too hot and we were ready to go back home for some refreshments.

When we hit a wall, run out of steam, need to change directions or just simply feel like we're in a rut, the good news is - we can pick up the pieces, reassemble and try again, and again... and again. Every day is a new opportunity to gather the pieces that aren't fitting together or are broken apart and make something new.

Maybe, we need to ignite something new - or, try a new ignitor (again, may not be giving the right names to this analogy, but go with me) - The first few launches we did, my husband used an 'A' ignitor. The launches went well! He then switched to a 'B'. The rocket soared higher into the air and moved much father from the initial launch site.

I've been doing well with A. It has been fulfilling in many ways, but lacking the satisfaction of helping my family financially, and not giving me that something I need to make me feel... hmm... I don't know. Like what I'm doing really counts. (not sure I'm explaining myself well).

So it's time for 'B'!

What is B?.. not sure - but think I may be on to something.

Had a thought in my mind, and my dear friend Jen called to encourage me today (you're such a love Jen!!!) and mentioned this B that I hadn't tolled her about... A sign?..

Not sure, but surely an encouragement to keep pressing on to 'B'!!!

So if you too are in the same.. ah, rocket, then rewind - reignite - and up up and away with you!!!!