I just read a beautifully written article. You can check it out here:
It's such a different perspective than most of the articles I've read. My heart still aches right now for the families, the community & really the whole world. & I'm not even closely connected to the tragedy, other than being a mother. But I just realized from reading an article a friend linked to Facebook, that this is the reason I feel so strongly about this whole thing.
I live & breathe motherhood all day long.
I watch the news & cry.
I watch my kids playing (or fighting) & I cry. I think what if this is their last time together. What if I don't get another chance to squeeze my babies & tell them how much I love them. For almost a week now I've cuddled, hugged & talked more to my babies than I have in a month. I wish it didn't take something like this to slow me down. But I'm thankful to have the chance to try again at active mothering.
Please, read the article for yourself, you'll surely be moved by it.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Monday, December 17, 2012
Social media & our children
I think a handful of my FB friends are far too young for Facebook, even if its primarily for games, or only to talk to their friends. I have some teen girls as FB friends who post pictures more revealing than anything I would post at 26 years old, and their profiles are PUBLIC! These kids are just not ready for social media. My daughter would love her own Facebook account. But she's 10. It's against FB's policy & against our family policy. A friend of hers posted a couple videos of them playing & my daughter was mortified. She thought they were just having fun, but never wanted to be online for everyone to see. She cried about it off & on for days. My 5 year old, on the other hand, is constantly asking if I will put his picture on Facebook. He thinks it is awesome to show his lego creations or new clothes to the entire world. These sweet children just don't realize how big the world really is. Social media can play a role in our emotional well being (yay! I have 15 new notifications vs. No notifications in 3 days) as well as mental health (cyber bullying). How will you protect your kids from social media?
https://www.jonacuff.com/blog/something-every-parent-needs-to-be-ready-for-in-2013/
Monday, December 10, 2012
Christmas feelings
I've gone Christmas shopping several times & spent hours online looking at things. But, I have yet to get a grip on my list. I am having a hard time finding good gifts, & feel like its an obligation & a giant waste of money. I try to be appreciative of gifts that are bought for my family, but mostly it's more things that we don't need & a lot of it never even leaves the package. I know Christmas shouldn't feel this way. I just hate how commercialized it feels. Christmas to me is about celebrating Christ's love. How can I honor Christ, while pleasing others with gifts, but not creating more clutter in their homes?
Donating money to a great charitable organization in their names isn't an option because the people I'm buying for like "things".
I kind of just want to stay home this year, how sad.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Feelings
Isn't it funny the way things can make us feel?
A thank-you note from something you didn't even think twice about can give you a warm feeling.
A fresh pair of contacts gives me a happy feeling & makes my eyes feel so fresh and clean.
My 5 year old got to experience the feeling of new socks. As weird as it sounds, I totally understood. New socks have so much more cushion, they're so soft, and they're perfectly sized, not stretched out or unevenly worn. His response was "THANK YOU MOMMY!! THIS IS THE BEST FEELING EVER!!".
Bless his little heart. Do you think he'll still be saying that when I buy him new socks for his first day of college?
I love good feelings.
Then there are the bad feelings. Ugh. Here is one that is standing out to me after spending 4+ hours in the car yesterday:
A dirty look from a stranger in a car driving the opposite direction. Why do some people look so angry when they drive? I want to hunt them down and ask if they wouldn't mind too terribly, could they please put on a happy face. But the real question is, why aren't they happy?
Take a minute to think about these 3 questions:
What does your face look like today? and why? How can you try to put a smile on someone else's face?
Friday, June 15, 2012
$5 Amazon Gift Card Winner
Hello Fans, Friends, and Family!
I really quickly wanted to announce the winner of the $5 Amazon Gift Card GIVEAWAY!
The winner is my friend Autumn! Yay! Congratulations Autumn! I'll be sending the e-card your way shortly!
There were *SO* many great responses. I've been away all day and am really longing some family time before the kids go to bed, so I'll real quickly sum up the tips I received:
*Try not to run the air as much as possible
*Don't use lights unless it's dark outside! And then we usually only use enough to see.
*When we are putting things away after meals, we try to gather all refrigerator items, so we only have to open the fridge once.
*Clean your air conditioner yearly and change the filter monthly.
*Use quilted window curtains.
*Turn the Heat down in Winter.
*Set air hotter in Summer and use your fan on slow or medium.
*Keep curtains on sun side of house closed.
*If the humidity isn't too high, once the temp drops in the evening, turn off the air and use fan on low.
Here was my favorite tip of all:
Thank you to all who entered! I look forward to hosting another giveaway in the future.
There were *SO* many great responses. I've been away all day and am really longing some family time before the kids go to bed, so I'll real quickly sum up the tips I received:
*Try not to run the air as much as possible
*Don't use lights unless it's dark outside! And then we usually only use enough to see.
*When we are putting things away after meals, we try to gather all refrigerator items, so we only have to open the fridge once.
*Clean your air conditioner yearly and change the filter monthly.
*Use quilted window curtains.
*Turn the Heat down in Winter.
*Set air hotter in Summer and use your fan on slow or medium.
*Keep curtains on sun side of house closed.
*If the humidity isn't too high, once the temp drops in the evening, turn off the air and use fan on low.
Here was my favorite tip of all:
Invite my daughter over; then she unplugs everything.
HAHAHA! I wonder who wrote that one... hmm ;) I love my mom!
Thank you to all who entered! I look forward to hosting another giveaway in the future.
Have a Happy Fathers Day weekend!
Don't forget to take time to thank your Heavenly Father for all you have, and wish Him a Happy Fathers day as well.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Celebrating with a GIVEAWAY!
I just got an e-mail from our electric company.... our bill last month was just under $100! This is cause for celebration in our house!
Especially throughout the spring, summer and fall months we all work extra hard to keep the bill down, with the less than $100/month goal in mind. We used to celebrate with ice cream, but these hot summer days ice cream is almost a part of our regular routine. So we just do a happy dance & pat ourselves on the back.
Some of the very simple things we do are:
Giveaway will close 6/14 (my parents anniversary!). Feel free to share this on your Facebook or other social media/e-mail to also give your friends a chance to win. Especially throughout the spring, summer and fall months we all work extra hard to keep the bill down, with the less than $100/month goal in mind. We used to celebrate with ice cream, but these hot summer days ice cream is almost a part of our regular routine. So we just do a happy dance & pat ourselves on the back.
Some of the very simple things we do are:
- Keep the heat/air off- With being pregnant this year, July in our house might be a different story!
- Dry a majority of the laundry outside- Last year it was all done out there, but again, being pregnant I sometimes opt for convenience.
- Switch lights off & open the curtains instead.
- Take shorter showers to reduce the amount of time the hot water heater has to work.
What are some ways you save on your electricity bill?
Fill out the form below & be entered to win a $5 Amazon.com gift card. I ♥ Amazon and am happy to offer this gift to my readers for your support of visiting my blog & sharing your input.
Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey, the world's leading questionnaire tool.
*This post/giveaway is not sponsored by Amazon or anyone other than myself. Just spreading good cheer!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Table Top S'mores
Last night we made Table Top Driveway Smores. I had everything on hand except the charcoal and the pot.
First I made a ball of tinfoil to put into the pot (about softball sized). This way the pot wasn't so deep. Then I lined the pot with another piece or two of tinfoil.
Next I added about 5-6 pieces of charcoal along with a little dryer lint to start the fire. This wasn't successful, so I resorted to lighter fluid (back up when you squirt this on- It really works fast!)
The coals will get hot while the flame goes down, then you will have flameless table top s'mores!
Much safer for little people, although it is still crazy hot up close, you wont have to be quite as paranoid about the flame catching their clothes on fire (maybe that's just me that worries about that), or burning little hands if the wind comes along and blows the flames in their direction.
The heat of the coals is enough to roast your marshmallows, and I've read the pot gets hot enough to melt whatever it's on- that's why we chose the driveway for this. You could also put it into a stoneware bowl or something if you wanted it on a table outdoors.
The original pot of 5-6 coals stayed hot enough to roast on for at least 3 hours. After that we just called it a night, we maybe could have gotten more time out of it, but we were exhausted from being out all day!
Best of all- Our clothes didn't stink like smoke when we were done! Yeah!
Driveway S'mores
Being impatient we roasted some while there was still a little flame, this makes delicious burnt mallows. ;-)
The Basics. I think this bag of charcoal will last us all summer, and then some!
What you'll need:
- Terracotta pot $1.50
- Tin Foil
- Charcoal $3.99
Dryer LintLighter fluid- Lighter
- Skewers (pokey things for roasting the mallows on)
- S'mores fixin's
First I made a ball of tinfoil to put into the pot (about softball sized). This way the pot wasn't so deep. Then I lined the pot with another piece or two of tinfoil.
Next I added about 5-6 pieces of charcoal along with a little dryer lint to start the fire. This wasn't successful, so I resorted to lighter fluid (back up when you squirt this on- It really works fast!)
The coals will get hot while the flame goes down, then you will have flameless table top s'mores!
Much safer for little people, although it is still crazy hot up close, you wont have to be quite as paranoid about the flame catching their clothes on fire (maybe that's just me that worries about that), or burning little hands if the wind comes along and blows the flames in their direction.
The heat of the coals is enough to roast your marshmallows, and I've read the pot gets hot enough to melt whatever it's on- that's why we chose the driveway for this. You could also put it into a stoneware bowl or something if you wanted it on a table outdoors.
The original pot of 5-6 coals stayed hot enough to roast on for at least 3 hours. After that we just called it a night, we maybe could have gotten more time out of it, but we were exhausted from being out all day!
Best of all- Our clothes didn't stink like smoke when we were done! Yeah!
Go on, try this out and make some memories with your precious family!
Friday, June 1, 2012
Quote of The Day: Think Together
While scanning over my Facebook news feed I read a quote posted by Hearts at Home that I really enjoyed. It simply said:
Now why didn't anyone tell me that about 8 years ago? Or better yet, tell my husband & I both? It's not that we always think alike, in fact often times we are on opposite ends of parenting, but the part I like is where it says to think TOGETHER.
I'm not going to over analyze this, I just want you to think about it on your own & maybe even read it to your spouse so you can talk about ways you can think together.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Monday Madness: Take a Walk
Monday Madness
As if Mondays aren’t busy enough, let me add one
more thing for you to consider adding to your “to-do” list.
It's a beautiful June day, you woke up to the birds chirping & the smell of fresh hot coffee prepared by your very own prince charming.
Okay, maybe it didn't quite happen like that, or maybe it did, you lucky girl, you!
Maybe it was more like you woke up to the sound of "mom, I'm borrreeeddd!!" or "He hit me first!". Let me share my very least favorite thing to hear first thing in the morning "can we watch TV?". Really kids? You just woke up & already you are craving screen time?!
Maybe your morning was neither of the extremes but found somewhere happily in the middle.
Whatever the circumstances may be, take time today to take a walk. Even just a quick walk down the road will do wonders for your mood & health. Or if you're feeling really adventurous strap on your tennis shoes, load up the kids, or dogs (if ya got 'em) and go on an adventure walk to see what types of birds, flowers, and cars you can see on your way to the park. Appreciate the beautiful world God created and what his people are doing with it. Ignore the stuff that bugs you, just focus on being positive.
PS. There are 24 hours in a day, even if you slept for 10 of them (which would make me feel very jealous), you still have another 14 to work with, say you work for 8hrs, & have some drive time in there & back- you still have 5-6 hours to work with. Don't even try to make excuses why you can't take a 5 minute walk.
It's a beautiful June day, you woke up to the birds chirping & the smell of fresh hot coffee prepared by your very own prince charming.
Okay, maybe it didn't quite happen like that, or maybe it did, you lucky girl, you!
Maybe it was more like you woke up to the sound of "mom, I'm borrreeeddd!!" or "He hit me first!". Let me share my very least favorite thing to hear first thing in the morning "can we watch TV?". Really kids? You just woke up & already you are craving screen time?!
Maybe your morning was neither of the extremes but found somewhere happily in the middle.
Whatever the circumstances may be, take time today to take a walk. Even just a quick walk down the road will do wonders for your mood & health. Or if you're feeling really adventurous strap on your tennis shoes, load up the kids, or dogs (if ya got 'em) and go on an adventure walk to see what types of birds, flowers, and cars you can see on your way to the park. Appreciate the beautiful world God created and what his people are doing with it. Ignore the stuff that bugs you, just focus on being positive.
PS. There are 24 hours in a day, even if you slept for 10 of them (which would make me feel very jealous), you still have another 14 to work with, say you work for 8hrs, & have some drive time in there & back- you still have 5-6 hours to work with. Don't even try to make excuses why you can't take a 5 minute walk.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Homeschool Freebies
I real quickly just want to share a website with you that I have come to love. A sweet fellow homeschooling momma of a large family has started sharing... you guessed it- homeschool freebies!
She posts mostly free e-books that are compatible with the Kindle, Kindle app, or Kindle for PC (which is free) if you don't have another device to read the books on.
I went from having about 20 books that took me about 2 years to acquire- to now owning 150 kindle books! I don't download everything, just the books I know the kids will like or that I actually have a real interest in reading.
She posts a great variety & I am so thankful for her sharing this gift of hers to find these great deals!
The website is called Free Homeschool Deals.
When you have time, check it out, you won't be sorry you did. Also, if you're on Facebook you can add her page there so you see the deals as they become available.
PS- I don't actually know this woman, but I think what she is doing is SO COOL that I just had to share with you all!
Be Blessed!
She posts mostly free e-books that are compatible with the Kindle, Kindle app, or Kindle for PC (which is free) if you don't have another device to read the books on.
I went from having about 20 books that took me about 2 years to acquire- to now owning 150 kindle books! I don't download everything, just the books I know the kids will like or that I actually have a real interest in reading.
She posts a great variety & I am so thankful for her sharing this gift of hers to find these great deals!
The website is called Free Homeschool Deals.
When you have time, check it out, you won't be sorry you did. Also, if you're on Facebook you can add her page there so you see the deals as they become available.
PS- I don't actually know this woman, but I think what she is doing is SO COOL that I just had to share with you all!
Be Blessed!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Perspective: From the eyes of a 9 year old
MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND:
I had the best, easiest, relaxing weekend in as long as I can remember. My husband drove us 2 hours away to satisfy a pregnancy craving for Fazzoli's, bless his heart.
The day before that I had brought home a broken, old wooden rocker that I picked up off of city wide garbage pickup. Instead of nagging about the junk that I brought home, he just chuckled. He knew it was another one of my "projects". With the help of the nice neighbor man, it was fixed & rocking again! Woo hoo!
Just before we went out to eat we made a stop at the spam museum for a little family field trip. The kids had a fun time exploring & playing there.
After we had eaten we drove around for about a half hour looking for a Goodwill that I had visited once before and so loved. GPS led us all over town & had us both frustrated, but my guy did not give up. Once we found it, the greatest thing happened, he spent an hour and a half in there with the kids & I. We ended the evening with pizza and visiting with my father in law.
Sunday was filled with flowers being planted, spending time as a family & ending the evening with putting together our new firepit and enjoying hamburgers and smores. Delightful.
Even with all the goodness, later that night I felt bad. Selfish really.
I was just getting ready to wash the smell of the smoke from the fire off in the shower when I caught a glimpse of my growing belly in the mirror.
My first pregnancy I was thrilled with my expanding midsection. This time around it's tougher to be excited about stretching out, because I know it's never the same afterwards.
My 9 year old princess comes in the bathroom to say goodnight & smiled "aww you're getting stretch marks! That's exciting, it means the baby is healthy and growing".
Exciting?!?! I took a deep breath, looked at the joy in her eyes, I smiled and said, "yes it is".
I chose not to be a joy sucker. I chose not to whine about how those were left over from nearly 5 years ago when her brother was growing in my womb. I didn't tell her that those would always be there & that I'd probably even get more in the coming months. She said good night & went on her way.
After she left the room, I got in the shower & decided to take on her perspective & leave mine behind (because mine stunk! & hers was beautiful). Thank you little girl, for reminding me I'm who God made me to be, & he made me perfectly.
I'm stretched out from carrying my babies, & that's okay. I love my babies, no matter how old they get, they will always be my babies. These marks really don't cause me any harm & I'm thankful to be alive and well enough to enjoy my family each day. That is what I will focus on, the good, because there is just so much of it!
I had the best, easiest, relaxing weekend in as long as I can remember. My husband drove us 2 hours away to satisfy a pregnancy craving for Fazzoli's, bless his heart.
The day before that I had brought home a broken, old wooden rocker that I picked up off of city wide garbage pickup. Instead of nagging about the junk that I brought home, he just chuckled. He knew it was another one of my "projects". With the help of the nice neighbor man, it was fixed & rocking again! Woo hoo!
Just before we went out to eat we made a stop at the spam museum for a little family field trip. The kids had a fun time exploring & playing there.
After we had eaten we drove around for about a half hour looking for a Goodwill that I had visited once before and so loved. GPS led us all over town & had us both frustrated, but my guy did not give up. Once we found it, the greatest thing happened, he spent an hour and a half in there with the kids & I. We ended the evening with pizza and visiting with my father in law.
Sunday was filled with flowers being planted, spending time as a family & ending the evening with putting together our new firepit and enjoying hamburgers and smores. Delightful.
Even with all the goodness, later that night I felt bad. Selfish really.
I was just getting ready to wash the smell of the smoke from the fire off in the shower when I caught a glimpse of my growing belly in the mirror.
My first pregnancy I was thrilled with my expanding midsection. This time around it's tougher to be excited about stretching out, because I know it's never the same afterwards.
My 9 year old princess comes in the bathroom to say goodnight & smiled "aww you're getting stretch marks! That's exciting, it means the baby is healthy and growing".
Exciting?!?! I took a deep breath, looked at the joy in her eyes, I smiled and said, "yes it is".
I chose not to be a joy sucker. I chose not to whine about how those were left over from nearly 5 years ago when her brother was growing in my womb. I didn't tell her that those would always be there & that I'd probably even get more in the coming months. She said good night & went on her way.
After she left the room, I got in the shower & decided to take on her perspective & leave mine behind (because mine stunk! & hers was beautiful). Thank you little girl, for reminding me I'm who God made me to be, & he made me perfectly.
I'm stretched out from carrying my babies, & that's okay. I love my babies, no matter how old they get, they will always be my babies. These marks really don't cause me any harm & I'm thankful to be alive and well enough to enjoy my family each day. That is what I will focus on, the good, because there is just so much of it!
Friday, May 18, 2012
Declutter: Magazines
The neighbor just stopped down for a few minutes. While we were all talking in the kitchen I sort of mindlessly started a recycling pile of store ads & magazines from around the kitchen. Isn't it funny how you realize your messes so much more in front of company.
It wasn't a terribly big stack, but I knew all those papers were holding me back, & making me feel guilty that I hadn't yet dealt with them, so they got tossed into the recycling bucket. After he left, instead of trying to skim the magazines I decided to leave them be. I went to lay on the hammock & blog. I enjoy this activity much more. & I'm sure what ever was in the magazines wasn't all that important anyway.
What material thing is holding you back or dragging you down, even if just slightly? Make a point to deal with it before the next week begins. The sooner the better.
It wasn't a terribly big stack, but I knew all those papers were holding me back, & making me feel guilty that I hadn't yet dealt with them, so they got tossed into the recycling bucket. After he left, instead of trying to skim the magazines I decided to leave them be. I went to lay on the hammock & blog. I enjoy this activity much more. & I'm sure what ever was in the magazines wasn't all that important anyway.
What material thing is holding you back or dragging you down, even if just slightly? Make a point to deal with it before the next week begins. The sooner the better.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Free Ebook For Couples
Right now the Kindle version of this book is free! Be sure to check the price before you hit purchase, as it is known to change without notice.
If you don't have a Kindle there is also a kindle for pc app. I like to read mine on my smart phone.
Hope you can snag this great deal!
Closer: Devotions to Draw Couples Together:Amazon:Kindle Store http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002P3K6X6/ref=mp_s_a_2?qid=1337189662&sr=8-2
Be blessed!
If you don't have a Kindle there is also a kindle for pc app. I like to read mine on my smart phone.
Hope you can snag this great deal!
Closer: Devotions to Draw Couples Together:Amazon:Kindle Store http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002P3K6X6/ref=mp_s_a_2?qid=1337189662&sr=8-2
Be blessed!
Monday, May 14, 2012
Simple is good
Sometimes the most simple lunch is the best. Today it's a plate full of tomatoes. You have no idea what joy it brings me to be eating tomatoes on a warm day like today. The only thing that could make it better, is if it could have come from our garden. Currently our garden is so overcome with weeds that we are thinking of using roundup on it before we plant. You know its bad when I am even considering using that, beings I'm such an anti-chemical freak.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
TV Free Summer?
I'm thinking out loud tonight and wondering what it would be like to go the summer without TV. I mean like actually unplug the TV for the summer & buy a weather radio.
Woah! Did I really just say that? Well yes, faithful blog follower, I actually did! You're thinking I'm crazy, & I slightly agree with you!
The main concern I hear seems to be that we wouldn't be able to know if bad weather was coming our way. I just disagree though. I have a smart phone and have signed both my husband and I up for weather alerts from the local news station. So in the event of poor weather we get a phone call to let us know what is coming our way. So that issue is taken care of, for the most part.
I really have a strong desire to "unplug". But I wonder if I'm being unfair to my husband. He uses TV in his down time to relax and be entertained. But truthfully, he doesn't even watch TV most nights in an average week. He's good at occupying himself with other things.
I'm not too worried about the kids, I mean that's a big part of the reason I want to do this. To help them explore more, and not be sucked into meaningless shows strictly for entertainment value.
Here's where I struggle though... There are so many times that I'm guilty of letting the kids watch a show.. or two.. (okay, a whole afternoon!) just so I can get some rest or tackle a project without the two of them fighting over what to play with, or who had the toy first.
I wish watching the tube was a special treat and not the default option as soon as someone feels bored in the house.
I think summer is a perfect time to try this, because the weather allows us to spend more time outdoors.
In my dream world the kids would help me for hours (rather than minutes) in the garden, they'd play in the yard and in the evening we'd all go inside and enjoy dinner together followed by several board games & laughing the night away.
I'm going to keep dreaming. & if our entertainment center that I posted on craigslist earlier in the week sells, I'm going to do my best to make this dream a reality! Of course, after my husband and I agree on the terms of being "unplugged".
Would you ever consider this? or have you done it? We've gone TV free for almost a month before, it wasn't so bad at all, but this time I want to actually take the TV out of the living room, which is a whole different ball game.
Woah! Did I really just say that? Well yes, faithful blog follower, I actually did! You're thinking I'm crazy, & I slightly agree with you!
The main concern I hear seems to be that we wouldn't be able to know if bad weather was coming our way. I just disagree though. I have a smart phone and have signed both my husband and I up for weather alerts from the local news station. So in the event of poor weather we get a phone call to let us know what is coming our way. So that issue is taken care of, for the most part.
I really have a strong desire to "unplug". But I wonder if I'm being unfair to my husband. He uses TV in his down time to relax and be entertained. But truthfully, he doesn't even watch TV most nights in an average week. He's good at occupying himself with other things.
I'm not too worried about the kids, I mean that's a big part of the reason I want to do this. To help them explore more, and not be sucked into meaningless shows strictly for entertainment value.
Here's where I struggle though... There are so many times that I'm guilty of letting the kids watch a show.. or two.. (okay, a whole afternoon!) just so I can get some rest or tackle a project without the two of them fighting over what to play with, or who had the toy first.
I wish watching the tube was a special treat and not the default option as soon as someone feels bored in the house.
I think summer is a perfect time to try this, because the weather allows us to spend more time outdoors.
In my dream world the kids would help me for hours (rather than minutes) in the garden, they'd play in the yard and in the evening we'd all go inside and enjoy dinner together followed by several board games & laughing the night away.
I'm going to keep dreaming. & if our entertainment center that I posted on craigslist earlier in the week sells, I'm going to do my best to make this dream a reality! Of course, after my husband and I agree on the terms of being "unplugged".
Would you ever consider this? or have you done it? We've gone TV free for almost a month before, it wasn't so bad at all, but this time I want to actually take the TV out of the living room, which is a whole different ball game.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
After school treat
I was in the mood for something sweet. So I started looking online for chocolate chip cookie bar recipes. I have tried numerous times to make chocolate chip cookies into bars (rather then tediously rolling in the dough into small balls and cooking up a pan or two at a time for seems like forever). I've never had any real success, especially when I have tried to make them healthier with wheat flour.
I'm trying out the recipe from this website: http://www.tammysrecipes.com/oatmeal_chocolate_chip_cookie_bars
Hopefully they will be delicious!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
The joys of a little girl
Chances are if you have a little girl in your house, you also have a mess similar to this. My little girl loves buying & receiving hair stuff (even if she never ends up using half of it) & perfumes, lotions, etc. Oh & those rubber bracelets from the parade & various fundraisers... which I still have no idea where to store.
Today I felt like shopping, but instead decided to tackle a quick project at home.
What quick project can you tackle this week?
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Verse of the day, from BibleGateway.com
“You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
I love this verse, I love it for the obvious reason. But I also love it for the fact that it says "at just the right time". I love when things happen at just the right time. That waiting for something to happen, especially when it takes months, or even y.e.a.r.s. is so difficult and trying, no matter what you are waiting for. I get that, I promise, I really do. But remember while you are waiting to have faith in the one who gave His only son for you. Use your waiting time to draw closer to God. He loves you, you are worth being loved. So whatever you are waiting for, find time to meditate on the fact that you are awesome.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Monday Madness: Donation Station
Monday Madness
As if Mondays aren’t busy enough, let me add one more thing for you to consider adding to your “to-do” list.
If you haven’t already, set up a donation station. For us it’s a table in the basement. Whenever the kids are getting dressed and a shirt doesn’t fit, or a pair of shoes get too snug they know just what to do. This helps me because it’s taken care of right away. We aren’t dealing with the same shirt not fitting a week later, and I’m not faced with looking in the closet to see how many t-shirts they have thinking they have oodles when really only half of them fit. Of course everything gets cleared through mom before hitting the table.
So First- set up the station. It could be just a paper sack in the corner of your closet, or whatever works for you.
Next think quickly what could be added to the donation station. It might be something you want to donate it to a friend, a second hand store, the church, wherever. The point of this pile is getting it out of your everyday sight so you can live more simply.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Recipe: Simple “smoothie”- Strawberry-Banana
Simple “smoothie”- Strawberry-Banana
Calorie Break down:
1 C. Strawberries: 50 calories
1 Small banana: 90 calories
Total: 140 Calories & it won’t weigh you down and leave you feeling tired the way “normal” breakfast cereal does. You have time for this, you can do this.
Tip: Rinse/wash the blender right away after making this. The fruit tends to dry up on the edges and be a real bugger to get out later. If you forget, just soak the blender jar in some hot soapy water & give it a good scrubbin’.
Calorie Break down:
1 C. Strawberries: 50 calories
1 Small banana: 90 calories
Total: 140 Calories & it won’t weigh you down and leave you feeling tired the way “normal” breakfast cereal does. You have time for this, you can do this.
Tip: Rinse/wash the blender right away after making this. The fruit tends to dry up on the edges and be a real bugger to get out later. If you forget, just soak the blender jar in some hot soapy water & give it a good scrubbin’.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Monday Madness: Be Courageous
Monday Madness
As if Mondays aren’t busy enough, let me add one more thing for you to consider adding to your “to-do” list.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Recipe: Ugly Delicious Salad
Food doesn’t have to look pretty. It needs to nourish you. This ugly salad does just that.
A few slices from a huge pickle (because the little boy thought I needed some with my lunch just like he had): 5 calories
½ C. Cottage Cheese: 80 calories
1/8th C. Diced Green Pepper: 4 calories
Calorie Break down:
3 C. Shredded Lettuce: 20 caloriesA few slices from a huge pickle (because the little boy thought I needed some with my lunch just like he had): 5 calories
½ C. Cottage Cheese: 80 calories
1/8th C. Diced Green Pepper: 4 calories
I could've tried for a better picture, but then it wouldn't have been nearly as ugly.
Total: 109 Calories (you could probably skip the pickles if you wanted, of course J). This salad is filling & lower calories than a lot of those prepackaged meals, and muuuuch better for you, even though it isn't loaded with nutrients, it does the trick for a quick meal time.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Monday Madness: Cook Something Special
Monday Madness
As if Mondays aren’t busy enough, let me add one more thing for you to consider adding to your “to-do” list.
Today’s Monday Madness is to cook something special for your spouse.
A couple summers ago my husband and I went to the golf course a few times for dinner. It’s just up the road from our house & the kids were pretty little, so I wasn’t as worried about leaving them with a sitter when I knew we could be home within minutes if needed. The food was reasonably priced and delicious! They had shuffleboard at the time that we appreciated learning how to play together.
My husband always ordered the Po Boy sandwich. I decided that I would learn how to make it and surprise him with it.
I searched for a recipe on Google & found one I thought I could follow. I had our daughter help me as much as she could then served it on our best dishes.
He was thrilled! He raved to all his friends about the sandwich I made, and how good it was. I felt like a queen!
I have a Google search box on the right hand side of this page. Go ahead and search for a recipe that you could try to impress your man with. Oh, & if your husband asks why, tell him “Just because I love you”. It will make him feel so much better than if you said “I wanted to try something new” or “I was bored”.
For extra brownie points scribble a little love letter on a card and stick it by his plate.
This doesn’t have to be anything fancy. It’s really not about the food, it’s about the thought. Happy Monday!
Friday, March 2, 2012
Recipes: Organizing
There are times that I taste what I've made and I JUST TOTALLY LOVE it, occasionally even the little people here love it too (praise the man of the house, he never complains about what I make)! So I have decided that some recipes are so worthy & that I must make them at least one more time while I'm on earth. Those recipes get added to my little index card recipe collection.
I also have a 3 ring binder filled with my grandma's recipes, I love that binder & all the wonderful recipes inside. I am so honored to be able to make the things she made and hopefully someday my little princess will be using that same binder in her kitchen.
What do you do with your favorite recipes?
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Recipe: Baked Oatmeal
Here is a peek into my oven this morning:
Mix all of these dry ingredients together in your baking dish.
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup chocolate chips (because chocolate chips are so high in calories I tried to use the least amount I could and still get a good covering of them on the oatmeal).
Add these over the top and push some of them down in a ways.
3/4 cup sliced strawberries- I use frozen, some were sliced, a few were whole.
1 sliced banana
Whisk these 3 things together and pour over the top.
2 cups milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon homemade vanilla
Baked at 350 for 35ish minutes.
I must have made breakfast too early this morning, or maybe I just didn't eat enough, Because this delightful dish came out of the oven at about 10:30 this morning. Yes, that's right, I had baked oatmeal at 10:30 in the morning. I chalk it up to being one of the perks of being a stay at home mom, no one tells me when I can take a break & indulge in something so amazing.
I first saw the recipe here: Inspired Taste
The first time I made this I added the orange zest that it originally called for, but this time I didn't. I just didn't care for the flavor, but maybe you will. I also cut out the butter, since it didn't do much for me other than add calories.
So here is how I did it:
2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
1/3 cup brown sugar1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup chocolate chips (because chocolate chips are so high in calories I tried to use the least amount I could and still get a good covering of them on the oatmeal).
Add these over the top and push some of them down in a ways.
3/4 cup sliced strawberries- I use frozen, some were sliced, a few were whole.
1 sliced banana
Whisk these 3 things together and pour over the top.
2 cups milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon homemade vanilla
Baked at 350 for 35ish minutes.
Yummm!
For leftovers: Since we don't use a microwave, I scoop what I want into a small pan and heat it up on the stovetop. It only takes about 3 minutes and it's heated evenly and stays warmer longer than if it were nuked.
And The Winner Is....
The WINNER of the 100th Blogpost Giveaway is:
TANYA!!
Thank you to all who entered to win via the comments and Survey Monkey, I greatly enjoyed reading the responses!
Tanya, I will be sending you an e-mail to get your shipping information & the book will be on it's way to you very soon!
Monday, February 27, 2012
Monday Madness: Visit Your Local Library
Monday Madness
As if Mondays aren’t busy enough, let me add one more thing for you to consider adding to your “to-do” list.
Take time this week to visit your local library. If you don’t have a library card, sign up for one. If you enjoy your visit make a plan to go back the next week also. You can spend anywhere from 5 minutes to a couple of hours there. Our local library carries books for all ages, VHS tapes, DVD’s, CD’s, books on CD, even coloring pages for the kids and games.
If you have extra books sitting around that you wouldn’t mind donating take them in and ask the librarian if they could use them.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Recipe: Spinach & Strawberries Drink
One afternoon I was eating my healthy spinach leaves topped with some frozen strawberries that were slowly thawing. I enjoy eating, but this poking the leaves & the strawberries being too frozen to bite through stuff was just getting boring! I just wasn’t in the mood to struggle with my food. I had already had a huge work out that morning and was starving!
As a discloser I will show you the blended version. If you're eating to impress someone stick to the pretty green leaves and vibrant colored strawberries. But if it's just you, & you're eating to get some nutrition, go ahead and enjoy this greenish colored drink. Who knows, maybe you like this shade of green? I don't- But I do like the simplicity, vitamins, and convenience of this drink.
So I grabbed my beloved blender and put the spinach and strawberries in it. I then added plenty of water & flipped the switch on.
The results: Not too bad, but it was a little tangy tasting. Adding a small scoop of yogurt or a banana would mellow this flavor out easily. However, I’ve had this a few times since and it is very do-able if you’re counting calories and just need a little something to get you through.
Calorie Break down:
3 C. Spinach: 20 calories
½ C. Strawberries: 25 Calories
Total: 45 calories & It’s packed with vitamin A & C. Bonus, you’re also getting extra water. I added 3-4 cups of water when all was said and done.
As a discloser I will show you the blended version. If you're eating to impress someone stick to the pretty green leaves and vibrant colored strawberries. But if it's just you, & you're eating to get some nutrition, go ahead and enjoy this greenish colored drink. Who knows, maybe you like this shade of green? I don't- But I do like the simplicity, vitamins, and convenience of this drink.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Flowers For Valentines Day
Just a reminder that the BOOK GIVEAWAY ends in 3 days! If you haven't signed up yet, you still have time! I added a survey monkey option for those that don't want to post their e-mail address in the comments. The theme for the next giveaway is "games". The number of entries in this book giveaway will determine how big the next giveaway will be. ;) So follow my blog or check back often if you want to be updated on that as well.
& Just for fun, I wanted to show off what my hubby did for me for Valentines day. He knows I'm watching what I eat so he avoided giving me a great big box of my favorite chocolates (although I would have made an exception- then complained later when my weight went up). He instead made these adorable celery and strawberry flowers, he also bought me carrots, he is so practical. And then he melted chocolate for the kids to dip their fruit into for the occasion & didn't even give me a dirty look when I started dipping my strawberries in there too. He's pretty much perfect!
Thursday Thoughts: 10 Years Later
I use to work in a pizza place all through high school. One of the guys I worked with said something to me that, I've thought about it often.
I don't remember what day of the week it was, but it was getting busy and he was sitting in a booth reading the local newspaper. From behind the counter in between answering phones, cutting pizzas & ringing up customers I said "Hey they need you back there". It was just a call out for an extra set of hands to roll out some crust and top the pizzas. It was a very casual, non-demanding, didn't even give it a second thought, kind of statement.
His response came in the form most of his responses came, in a low grumbly voice "They don't need me they just need somebody".
I spent the next few years feeling like nobody needed me, like I wasn't anything special & I was easily replaceable.
People do come and go, but that doesn't mean that they are easily replaced. Every soul in this world has made an impact whether big or small, and whether they know it or not, they have made a change in this world.
If you have ever put a jar out to collect spare change you know what I'm talking about. It's the little things that add up. 25 cents here, 50 cent there, a couple of dollars worth of change from the bottom of your purse (or car cup holder). Before know it you have saved up enough to take your kids on a small trip or to buy that tv you been wishing for.
So let me tell you this, you are important, you do matter! And maybe you are replaceable at your job, so what- it is just a job, it does not define who you are. Maybe you feel like someone else has taken over your role as parent to your child but I want to be sure that you know- you are not replaceable in that role. The impact you have had on every single person is important. The smile you gave to the cashier today, the wave at the car passing by, the holding the door for an extra 2 seconds for the person walking in behind you... These things are the little things that make up the big picture of a happy life.
People die, I get that. We won't be here forever, but while we are here, keep in mind we are each here for a purpose.
You are loved.
You are important.
Your days here are numbered, don't spend them worrying about wealth or the next best thing. & please don't waste those days over-thinking what someone said 10 years ago, when they probably stopped thinking about it 10 seconds after it left their lips.
Enjoy the little things.
Personal Application:
Think of something that you do well, & share that gift with someone else. Maybe you can bake, bake something for a neighbor. Perhaps you're good at lifting heavy things (totally visualizing the commercial about lifting things up and putting them down. Ha!). The next time you see someone needs help lifting something, drop what you're doing and help them, it will matter.
Parental Application: Help your child find and share their gift. Let them know that they are special.
Let me leave you with this clip from "The Help".
I don't remember what day of the week it was, but it was getting busy and he was sitting in a booth reading the local newspaper. From behind the counter in between answering phones, cutting pizzas & ringing up customers I said "Hey they need you back there". It was just a call out for an extra set of hands to roll out some crust and top the pizzas. It was a very casual, non-demanding, didn't even give it a second thought, kind of statement.
His response came in the form most of his responses came, in a low grumbly voice "They don't need me they just need somebody".
I spent the next few years feeling like nobody needed me, like I wasn't anything special & I was easily replaceable.
People do come and go, but that doesn't mean that they are easily replaced. Every soul in this world has made an impact whether big or small, and whether they know it or not, they have made a change in this world.
If you have ever put a jar out to collect spare change you know what I'm talking about. It's the little things that add up. 25 cents here, 50 cent there, a couple of dollars worth of change from the bottom of your purse (or car cup holder). Before know it you have saved up enough to take your kids on a small trip or to buy that tv you been wishing for.
So let me tell you this, you are important, you do matter! And maybe you are replaceable at your job, so what- it is just a job, it does not define who you are. Maybe you feel like someone else has taken over your role as parent to your child but I want to be sure that you know- you are not replaceable in that role. The impact you have had on every single person is important. The smile you gave to the cashier today, the wave at the car passing by, the holding the door for an extra 2 seconds for the person walking in behind you... These things are the little things that make up the big picture of a happy life.
People die, I get that. We won't be here forever, but while we are here, keep in mind we are each here for a purpose.
You are loved.
You are important.
Your days here are numbered, don't spend them worrying about wealth or the next best thing. & please don't waste those days over-thinking what someone said 10 years ago, when they probably stopped thinking about it 10 seconds after it left their lips.
Enjoy the little things.
Personal Application:
Think of something that you do well, & share that gift with someone else. Maybe you can bake, bake something for a neighbor. Perhaps you're good at lifting heavy things (totally visualizing the commercial about lifting things up and putting them down. Ha!). The next time you see someone needs help lifting something, drop what you're doing and help them, it will matter.
Parental Application: Help your child find and share their gift. Let them know that they are special.
Let me leave you with this clip from "The Help".
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Tip Tuesday- Laundry Soap
I'm not great at making my own laundry soap. I have bought all the supplies to do it, a couple of times actually.. I have never really stuck with it, though I know it is cost effective.
My tip for you today, although it's common sense, is worth saying-
Use less soap! The guidelines for how much soap you should be using is set by the company that is making that soap and wanting you to buy gobs of it so they can profit.
With my last batch of laundry detergent I threw out the ugly green plastic measuring scoop & cardboard box that came with it. I replaced it with a nice glass jar & a stainless steel tablespoon scoop.
I much prefer the glass jar over the cardboard box, & the metal scoop versus the plastic ones. I already had these things on hand.
Now I use 1 or two of these scoops rather than half a green scoop.
What do you have on hand that you could use to pretty up the laundry area in your home?
My tip for you today, although it's common sense, is worth saying-
Use less soap! The guidelines for how much soap you should be using is set by the company that is making that soap and wanting you to buy gobs of it so they can profit.
With my last batch of laundry detergent I threw out the ugly green plastic measuring scoop & cardboard box that came with it. I replaced it with a nice glass jar & a stainless steel tablespoon scoop.
I much prefer the glass jar over the cardboard box, & the metal scoop versus the plastic ones. I already had these things on hand.
Now I use 1 or two of these scoops rather than half a green scoop.
What do you have on hand that you could use to pretty up the laundry area in your home?
Monday, February 20, 2012
Monday Madness: Coffee
Monday Madness
As if Mondays aren’t busy enough, let me add one more thing for you to consider adding to your “to-do” list.
Ever check out 2nd hand stores for coffee cups? I do, here is one of my finds I purchased for my mother while she was staying with us.
This madness is for the coffee drinkers (cough, MOM, cough) who like their coffee to taste like it came from an expensive coffee shop in a beautiful vacation destination purchased by some hot Australian man named Alexander, who happened to find you on the beach and decide to make you his arm candy. Of for you guys, go ahead and imagine your own story, then get back to the blog!
This Monday decide that at least one day this week you will take your coffee black. If this seems like too much of a chore for you to do, do it anyway! It’s good for you!
I’m kidding! If this really does seem impossible (although it’s not), switch the artificial sweeteners for regular sugar, or honey. If you cannot cut out the creamer just yet, take baby steps and use half of what you have been using.
You will be saving your body the agony of figuring out what to do with the extra chemicals you’re adding to your java.
Save the heavy creamers/syrups and fake sugar for an occasional trip to the coffee, shop rather than an everyday treat. You are worth the treat, not the health strain from your everyday hot chemical consumption.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Recipe: Baked S'mores
I’ve been on Pinterest for a few months now & one common food theme I keep seeing is S’MORES! S’more bars, cakes, cake pops, cups, cupcakes , S'mores Cake in a Jar , etc. What’s next? S’mores apparel and fan shirts? Maybe so.
Now I’ve also been exercising and trying to cut calories, but only for about 20 days- so the S’mores win, because they’ve been bugging me longer. Haha.
Today the little helper and I made simple baked s’mores. Actually they were so simple that I wish I wouldn’t have made them, because now I’m likely to make them again, like tonight when the princess gets home.I really don’t need to write instructions on this; it’s super self-explanatory with the pictures. But I will say this: Bake these beauties for only a couple of minutes in a 400 degree oven. That’s all it will take, so stand there and watch them carefully.
Calorie break down:
Cinnamon Graham Crackers: 150 calories for 2 full sheets
Marshmallows: 17 calories for 8 Chocolate chips: 35 calories for ½ TBSP. (According to my quick measuring & calculating that makes each chocolate chip about 2.5 calories A PIECE! I may never be able to throw a handful in my mouth while baking again!
You’re looking at roughly 203 calories for a delicious (sooooo unhealthy) snack. That really isn’t so bad, considering what else you could’ve consumed, but be careful they are highly addicting. Now of course if you aren't a recovering heifer like me, you can load up on the chocolate chips and enjoy an even sweeter treat. ;)
Excuse the burnt pan. My pans are well used.
Love that toasted golden brown color the marshmallows take on.
mmmmm....
If you do it right, the plate will look something like this when you're finshed.
Enjoy!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
100th BLOG POST! A Book Giveaway!
So this is the 100th blog post for A Slightly Better Wife. I haven't blogged as much as I would've liked to, but don't all bloggers say that?
I have become a better wife in some areas, and that was the goal. I feel like I've made improvements, but still have a ways to go. Marriage is a work in progress, no matter how much you love your spouse or how many years you've been together you still need to work at showing them how special they are, each and every day.
One thing that has helped me is being held accountable. Just having friends, neighbors and family who don't sit around and male bash, but instead encourage me, has been a great refreshing help. Early on in our marriage when I was still just a young gal I didn't have this, but I so wish I did.
Reading my bible has changed me. I've read my bible off and on since I first got it as a gift when I was just a teenager. The bible is full of truth, and if you look, you will find just what you need.
And really having such a kind, caring and devoted husband who is a major goof ball has been the biggest blessing in my goal to being a better wife. He is so forgiving, I praise God for him.
I'm not going to be giving away my husband. ;) BUT I will be giving away: Ann Voskamp's book "One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are" You can read what I wrote about it last month here, yes right here...click here now.
As far as the friends- Please take a few minutes to really evaluate the people you are spending the most time with. Do you dread answering the phone when they call? How do you feel after you've spent time with them? Just be sure you are with people who can lift you up and help you, not hurt you. Also try to be the type of friend that is encouraging to others. After all, love is what makes the world go around :-)
PS. I'd love it if you would also follow my blog.
I have become a better wife in some areas, and that was the goal. I feel like I've made improvements, but still have a ways to go. Marriage is a work in progress, no matter how much you love your spouse or how many years you've been together you still need to work at showing them how special they are, each and every day.
One thing that has helped me is being held accountable. Just having friends, neighbors and family who don't sit around and male bash, but instead encourage me, has been a great refreshing help. Early on in our marriage when I was still just a young gal I didn't have this, but I so wish I did.
Reading my bible has changed me. I've read my bible off and on since I first got it as a gift when I was just a teenager. The bible is full of truth, and if you look, you will find just what you need.
And really having such a kind, caring and devoted husband who is a major goof ball has been the biggest blessing in my goal to being a better wife. He is so forgiving, I praise God for him.
I'm not going to be giving away my husband. ;) BUT I will be giving away: Ann Voskamp's book "One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are" You can read what I wrote about it last month here, yes right here...click here now.
As far as the friends- Please take a few minutes to really evaluate the people you are spending the most time with. Do you dread answering the phone when they call? How do you feel after you've spent time with them? Just be sure you are with people who can lift you up and help you, not hurt you. Also try to be the type of friend that is encouraging to others. After all, love is what makes the world go around :-)
~How to enter the book giveaway~
Leave a comment OR use the form below to answer these questions:
*Your name
*E-mail address
and
*The advice you would give to a new bride.
*Your name
*E-mail address
and
*The advice you would give to a new bride.
Winner will be picked in 10 days... yes, 10! On February 26th, 2012 (A special day to me, I'll write more on this later).
PS. I'd love it if you would also follow my blog.
Good Luck & God Bless You!!
Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey, the world's leading questionnaire tool.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
That First Year... Oh, That Wonderful First Year.
Do you remember what it was like when you and your husband first moved in together? I do- I remember I was usually yelling and upset about something. I was an awful cook (& back then all I made was Hamburger Helper or Hardee’s- I hadn’t even heard of grinding your own wheat or fermenting foods). I had it in my head that I should get whatever I want, because I was the woman of the house and I deserved it… Just because I was the woman & the women typically do SO much.
Well, during that first year there is one repeated argument that plays in my head from time to time. It’s the argument I had with my husband. I say I had it with him because he wasn’t upset at all, and handled it in a very grown up manner… you know, like grown-ups are supposed to do.
Let me give you a little background. My husband does so much for our family and for me especially. One of the things he does that I honor and respect the most is keeping a positive spirit and a good attitude. He forgives easily and is the definition of laid back, without being lazy. Maybe you don't associate those two together, but I sometimes do- so I wanted to clarify, because he is sure a hardworking man.
So within that first year I remember walking into our bedroom for whatever reason & getting about 3 steps in before I’d realize that there was an unpleasant smell in the air.
I tracked the scent down to a pile of dirty clothes on Mr. Perfect’s side of the bed. Um… who does this guy think he is? Leaving his clothes in a pile on the floor when the hamper was just in the next room!!
The hamper was in the next room because I didn’t want to see or smell the dirty clothes. Sort of inconvenient, yes, but if you were a good enough shot you could stand in just the right spot & get your clothes in the hamper on the first or second try.
When I first became perturbed by this my husband was at work. I mentioned something at supper that night about his dirty clothes reeking up the whole house & how disgusting it was to leave a pile of clothes on the floor (did I ever mention I’m a recovering drama queen?). He sort of brushed it off... I persisted that dirty clothes go IN the hamper in the bathroom, not on the floor in the bedroom.
He didn't totally blow me off, but didn't seem overly concerned either. I reminded him a few more times over the course of that first year. Sometimes I said it innocently, sometimes pretty nasty. Each time he responded kindly and would remember to put his clothes in the correct place for a few days, and then he'd forget again.
Alright, fast forward. We’ve been living together for just over 6 years now. I’m learning my role as a wife and complaining MUCH less. I walked into the bedroom today, there was that smell. I swooped up his clothes and threw them into the hamper. While I was at it I grabbed the kids clothes, bathroom towels and took the duds out to the laundry room for washing.
I didn’t let a negative thought cross my mind or even think of reminding him that he kinda sucks at cleaning up his clothes (because really, he does remember MOST of the time & frankly I suck at quite a few things). I didn’t get negative about it because I decided to be positive instead. I thanked God that I had a husband who comes home each night, who only leaves his dirty clothes beside OUR bed, and is a positive, wonderful, gentle man who loves me.
What does your husband do that you could appreciate rather than reprimand?
Monday, January 30, 2012
Positive.happy.good.
I've been busy trying to be positive, make others happy & do good. This doesn't come real natural like.
I've also started exercising... Yikes. This is hard. But thinking of being a fat mom sitting on the sidelines & missing out on playing the game of life with my kids is lots harder.
Harder than the exercise is watching what I eat. Gosh you'd think I'm a baby/toddler the way I stick everything in my mouth. A bite of soup while I'm stirring, a lick of something before throwing the spoon in the sink, it is ridiculous!
Ridiculous, but not impossible to change. I know I'm motivated now & pray I'll stick with it.
I mean how cool would it be, to be the hot wife at the company Christmas party someday. ;)
I know, I know, beauty is fleeting, charm is deceptive...
Really I just want to get over whatever is making me dizzy & tired all the time & causing me to feel run down, so I'm fighting back.
I'm quite the fighter, if I do say so myself. I'm down 3 pounds in 5 days, that's awesome... Yes, as my husband would remind me he can lose 3 lbs in the bathroom (gross) but I just don't have that, umm...luck. uh huh, so this is practically monumental.
Happy Monday people. :)
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Be fully where?
I have this excellent quote in my kitchen:
"Wherever you are be fully there"
I posted it there as a reminder to myself.
A reminder to:
Put down my smart phone.
Quit checking Facebook.
Put away the laptop.
& focus on these moments that go by all too quickly.
I especially want to focus at church and not worry about each wiggle the kids make or what people think of what I'm wearing.
Well I didn't realize it but I was lost again. It hit me after the kids were in bed & I was working on the dishes. My husband came in and asked "Did you think church was lame tonight?"
Sorry for the raw honesty. We do love our church, pastors & church family. Our church is rarely ever actually lame.
Okay, so I didn't know how to answer because the whole service I was thinking of a mug shot I saw online earlier that day. I was wondering if it was one of the gentleman at church. I kept thinking of how I could quietly grab my phone & pull up Facebook. I knew I couldn't do it, but it didn't stop me from thinking about it.
Once we got home I checked it out & it wasn't him. But really it didn't matter anyway. We are all sinners, saved by Gods grace. Shame on me for passing judgment.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. -Ephesians 2:8
"Wherever you are be fully there"
I posted it there as a reminder to myself.
A reminder to:
Put down my smart phone.
Quit checking Facebook.
Put away the laptop.
& focus on these moments that go by all too quickly.
I especially want to focus at church and not worry about each wiggle the kids make or what people think of what I'm wearing.
Well I didn't realize it but I was lost again. It hit me after the kids were in bed & I was working on the dishes. My husband came in and asked "Did you think church was lame tonight?"
Sorry for the raw honesty. We do love our church, pastors & church family. Our church is rarely ever actually lame.
Okay, so I didn't know how to answer because the whole service I was thinking of a mug shot I saw online earlier that day. I was wondering if it was one of the gentleman at church. I kept thinking of how I could quietly grab my phone & pull up Facebook. I knew I couldn't do it, but it didn't stop me from thinking about it.
Once we got home I checked it out & it wasn't him. But really it didn't matter anyway. We are all sinners, saved by Gods grace. Shame on me for passing judgment.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. -Ephesians 2:8
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
1000 Gifts
I am slowly but surely reading the book One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, by Ann Voskamp.
I won a copy at a MOPS meeting, but already had it on my Kindle. I knew I wanted so badly to share the book with my mom. I gave the book to her for her birthday in December. She's learning from it and enjoying it, as am I.
This book is teaching me to be thankful. It doesn't come naturally to me, so this is a deep blessing.
I've begun to count my graces, and reached somewhere over 100. The number isn't important to me, it's the feeling as my pen hits the paper and I pour out thankfulness. Yes, pen and paper. I wanted to type them up, or use my phone to record them. But then it seemed less genuine to me. So I am documenting my thoughts "old school", you could call it.
I read about this Joy Dare from another wonderful blogger/friend. I hope you'll visit the links and look further into this, it's a wonderful thing. The Joy Dare has 31 ideas to be thankful for in January, that you can print out for your fridge. I know it's already the 17th, but I just printed it out and will get started on it quickly.
I'll occasionally share my blessings with you and hope you'll find encouragement from them.
I won a copy at a MOPS meeting, but already had it on my Kindle. I knew I wanted so badly to share the book with my mom. I gave the book to her for her birthday in December. She's learning from it and enjoying it, as am I.
This book is teaching me to be thankful. It doesn't come naturally to me, so this is a deep blessing.
I've begun to count my graces, and reached somewhere over 100. The number isn't important to me, it's the feeling as my pen hits the paper and I pour out thankfulness. Yes, pen and paper. I wanted to type them up, or use my phone to record them. But then it seemed less genuine to me. So I am documenting my thoughts "old school", you could call it.
I read about this Joy Dare from another wonderful blogger/friend. I hope you'll visit the links and look further into this, it's a wonderful thing. The Joy Dare has 31 ideas to be thankful for in January, that you can print out for your fridge. I know it's already the 17th, but I just printed it out and will get started on it quickly.
I'll occasionally share my blessings with you and hope you'll find encouragement from them.
Bathroom Update- 1 Year Later
Almost exactly a year ago I posted about how freaked out I am by toxins. Since then I DID actually pull out the lotions that had parabens listed in the ingredients, or had a list of ingredients longer than I cared to read.
I tried making my own deodorant (& toothpaste), which worked better than the store bought. That is, until it got too cold and hard (hoping it will work again in the summer, I have hyperhidrosis and am a super sweater, in case you were curious- Woah- can you say run-on!).
I've gotten a little more relaxed since Christmas and started using a hand lotion that I don't even know where it came from. I read that it had parabens but I figured I'd just use a little, and it smelled SO good!
Well, I read an article today that has again sparked my interest to remove toxins, so the lotion will be ditched.
You can read about the article here, it talks about parabens and breast cancer. It's not that they may be causing it or even directly linked, but I do feel that women as a whole are using WAY too many products that are unhealthy and our bodies know it.
By the way, if all of you women would stop using so many products to make yourselves look good, then I could stop using so many and it would really level out the playing field. Just sayin'.
Also- I stopped using my very favorite moisturizer and swapped it for olive oil after a MOPS meeting where I had everyone making a sugar scrub. Some gals asked if it was okay to use on your face, and I said I wouldn't, because it's oil. Then a few other said that it was actually good to use just olive oil on your face. I looked into it, and they were right! My skin loooooves the change. Although winter winds have been tough, the olive oil is still all I will be putting on my pretty little face.
Think to yourself- What can I do to make a difference for me/my family? Then do it!
I tried making my own deodorant (& toothpaste), which worked better than the store bought. That is, until it got too cold and hard (hoping it will work again in the summer, I have hyperhidrosis and am a super sweater, in case you were curious- Woah- can you say run-on!).
I've gotten a little more relaxed since Christmas and started using a hand lotion that I don't even know where it came from. I read that it had parabens but I figured I'd just use a little, and it smelled SO good!
Well, I read an article today that has again sparked my interest to remove toxins, so the lotion will be ditched.
You can read about the article here, it talks about parabens and breast cancer. It's not that they may be causing it or even directly linked, but I do feel that women as a whole are using WAY too many products that are unhealthy and our bodies know it.
By the way, if all of you women would stop using so many products to make yourselves look good, then I could stop using so many and it would really level out the playing field. Just sayin'.
Also- I stopped using my very favorite moisturizer and swapped it for olive oil after a MOPS meeting where I had everyone making a sugar scrub. Some gals asked if it was okay to use on your face, and I said I wouldn't, because it's oil. Then a few other said that it was actually good to use just olive oil on your face. I looked into it, and they were right! My skin loooooves the change. Although winter winds have been tough, the olive oil is still all I will be putting on my pretty little face.
Think to yourself- What can I do to make a difference for me/my family? Then do it!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)