I was reading an article recently in the magazine I said I was going to read in full every month and came across this quote by Elder Neal A. Maxwell:
"One's life...cannot be both faith-filled and stress-free....
"Therefore, how can you and I really expect to glide naively through life, as if to say, 'Lord, give me experience, but not grief, not sorrow, not pain, not opposition, not betrayal, and certainly not to be forsaken. Keep from me, Lord, all those experiences which made Thee what Thou art! Then let me come and dwell with Thee and fully share Thy joy!'...
"Real faith...is required to endure this necessary but painful developmental process."
I've been thinking a lot about this lately, and comparing it with one thing in my life specifically - being sick. In general, I like to say I embrace trials, learn from them, am thankful for them. But when it comes to being sick, keep it away from me. Not me, specifically, so much as my whole family. There are very few things in this life I truly "hate"... my family being sick is one of those things.
So, last night, as I was getting up time and time again to aid my clogged-nose littlest one (first time sick, EVER), I was having a really hard time not being bitter about the source of this illness. My family has successfully avoided getting sick this whole school year, and pretty much for the past 10 months. Whenever I would hear of someone being sick, I would find myself feeling prideful, as if to say "Ha, I'm not. What are you doing wrong in your life that makes you sick right now?" (I'm not the most sympathetic person when it comes to caring for the ill... last night I was thinking that maybe this is because I find being sick a weakness, subconsciously, of course.) Real quick, though, when I would feel these ugly things, I would attempt to humble myself and pray for them to get better, not forgetting to thank the Lord viciously for our enduring good health and ask that we might keep it. I know it's a blessing from Him. I know it's not anything I do that keeps us healthy. So, I always make sure I'm quick to remember this in praying for, and being ever so thankful for, our health, which I do during every prayer I offer lately.
I make it a point to avoid contact with sources of illness. I'm so not a germaphobe, but I do avoid them. My kids do not play in the McDonald's play place during certain times of the year. If someone comes to church saying their kid is sick, I feel anger and ask in my head "why are you here then?" When someone coughs in a public place, I glare. I'm not nice about this, seriously, hence the struggle with bitterness last night. So when I read this article, my thinking was "here it comes".
I'd like to think I'm meek enough to see what I need to learn and change, so it got me thinking that maybe avoiding sickness isn't the best thing, really, because I'm also a firm believer in being exposed to germs and the like as a way of building immunities to the bad stuff. I don't want to be one who says "Help me learn, but don't give me the lesson". I like being the kind of person that says "bring it on", or, like in one of my favorite movies how the Count says of Albert, "Do your worst, for I will do mine." (Count of Monte Cristo - if you haven't seen it, DO.)
This morning (so far) I don't feel as if I didn't sleep at all last night (which is mostly true) and Quin seems to be feeling fine, minus the gunky nose, and I even feel the bitterness mostly gone. I know this is due to my prayers last night. My point of all of this post, is, I guess, to say out loud that I truly am thankful for my trials, and I do see the benefit in having a cold in that we'll be building stronger immunities for the really ugly germs that may come our way. And perhaps I'm learning to feel a little more Christ-like towards those who are suffering from something that makes them feel less than whole...
So, if you're sick, I do hope you get better very soon. I know we have just a cold in our house right now, but we all know that a baby with "just a cold" = no sleep for Mommy. (Or Daddy. I think Matt was up most the night, too, due to the fussing and me constantly in and out of the bed.)
I also know it could be worse, and I'm so thankful it isn't.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
To sell or not to sell?
So, as we go through baby things, we've been putting them out in the garage in some boxes we've lovingly named "the garage sale boxes". Lately, though, I've been wondering... am I being distasteful? Here's why: some of these things were given to us. Not as gifts, really, but more like "we're not using this anymore, so you can have it if you need it".
Now, first I need to say this: my strong thinking is when someone gives you something, it's yours to do what you want with. If you want to turn around and give it to someone else, that's your prerogotive. If you want to paint it pink and wear it on your head, by all means. If you want to sell it - well, hmm... fine, but don't tell me about it. And actually, we had some really nice things that we gave away after we moved into our last house but then it occurred to me that this person we gave them to was probably going to turn around and sell them. I wasn't angry at this thought, more like "Dang it, why didn't I think of that?" I'm not going to lie, if I can make a buck - I will.
Well, here's where I need your opinion: this "garage sale" we're talking about is a great, big, neighborhood garage sale that happens every year in my sweet little hood of Sleepy Hollow. Many, many people come to this and much moolah can be made if enough highly-sought-after junk is sold. Baby items usually fit into this category.
I'm afraid to put out some of this stuff because what if the person who gave it to me comes by and sees that I'm trying to make some money off of something they gave to me freely? Should I worry about what they think? Should I in turn be charitable and give it to someone else who might need it? (But really, these things have been through a kid or two and aren't junk, but aren't brand new - so who, other than garage sale shoppers, would want that?) Or should I go with my original theory and have the attitude of "Well, it's mine now. I'd consider painting it pink and wearing it on my head, but I wouldn't have a thing to go with it..."
What would you do? What would you want me to do if you were the one who gave me your stuff? Am I being tacky?
***NOTE: There are a couple pregnant ladies in my ward at church and I HAVE asked them if they need ANYTHING, so it's not like I'm trying to NOT give it away. They both said they don't need anything, so am I free and clear to make some fun money? I'm thinking yes, but still want your opinions...
Now, first I need to say this: my strong thinking is when someone gives you something, it's yours to do what you want with. If you want to turn around and give it to someone else, that's your prerogotive. If you want to paint it pink and wear it on your head, by all means. If you want to sell it - well, hmm... fine, but don't tell me about it. And actually, we had some really nice things that we gave away after we moved into our last house but then it occurred to me that this person we gave them to was probably going to turn around and sell them. I wasn't angry at this thought, more like "Dang it, why didn't I think of that?" I'm not going to lie, if I can make a buck - I will.
Well, here's where I need your opinion: this "garage sale" we're talking about is a great, big, neighborhood garage sale that happens every year in my sweet little hood of Sleepy Hollow. Many, many people come to this and much moolah can be made if enough highly-sought-after junk is sold. Baby items usually fit into this category.
I'm afraid to put out some of this stuff because what if the person who gave it to me comes by and sees that I'm trying to make some money off of something they gave to me freely? Should I worry about what they think? Should I in turn be charitable and give it to someone else who might need it? (But really, these things have been through a kid or two and aren't junk, but aren't brand new - so who, other than garage sale shoppers, would want that?) Or should I go with my original theory and have the attitude of "Well, it's mine now. I'd consider painting it pink and wearing it on my head, but I wouldn't have a thing to go with it..."
What would you do? What would you want me to do if you were the one who gave me your stuff? Am I being tacky?
***NOTE: There are a couple pregnant ladies in my ward at church and I HAVE asked them if they need ANYTHING, so it's not like I'm trying to NOT give it away. They both said they don't need anything, so am I free and clear to make some fun money? I'm thinking yes, but still want your opinions...
Cherishing every fleeting minute
My baby is 10 months old today. How did we make it this far? Easily? No. All too quickly? Yes, yes indeed.
So, this is usually a big time of change for my kids. This is when both of my other kids started crawling. I remember the steps Andur took to get there. (Poor Natalie, she's a blur.) He would spin around on his bum, trying to get to things. From the sitting position, he would lean and almost get onto his hands and knees when - flop - down to his tummy he would go. Then he would get mad and scooch backwards till he was stopped by a solid object. Quin is doing these exact same things. So, babyproofing, here we come! Do I worry that they crawl so late? Absolutely not. I firmly believe that a child is not advanced when they do things "early" in the first year. I think all babies need to be able to do certain things in the first year, and as long as they do them, the "when" doesn't matter. My first two were walking and talking well by 13 months, then reading and writing by 3, and are now both in special smart kid classes, so I'm not worried about the first year "slownesses". lol (Is that bragging? *wink*)
I took Andur off the bottle (and formula) when he was 11 months old. Natalie was 10 months old. I remember worrying that I was doing it too soon, but now that Quin's doing just what she did, I'm a little less worried. He won't drink it any more, so I just give him whole milk in a cup. He went all day yesterday without a bottle and most of the day before that and he seems just fine. *sigh* That doesn't mean I don't feel guilty for not giving him one. If he was starving and not eating food well and being cranky all the time, I'd feel even more guilty, but he's fine so I need to remember that and just be fine, too.
He still only has the two bottom teeth. I swear those stinkin' top teeth are going to stay hidden forever. I can SEE them. They're SO CLOSE to breaking through! Why must we all be tortured so?? Stupid toothies. And to top it off, it seems he's working on more bottom teeth. Drool and slimey fingers are the norm for us these days. A bit of whine is added to the pot around 4:30pm everyday, so that's been fun.
He's almost out of his 12 month clothes... thank goodness for a nice supply of 18 month clothes. (Thanks again to all who contributed!) He's my sweet little chunk and is getting quite ornery. The last couple days, when I'm holding him, he pushes away from me as if to say he wants down. Not that he goes very far, but we're getting there. Why do they have to grow up so fast??
I didn't think to take a recent picture, and he's napping, so that'll be a later post. (Not that I'm doing it for you, this is for posterity, duh.)
Anyway. Geesh, time... can't you just SLOW DOWN???
So, this is usually a big time of change for my kids. This is when both of my other kids started crawling. I remember the steps Andur took to get there. (Poor Natalie, she's a blur.) He would spin around on his bum, trying to get to things. From the sitting position, he would lean and almost get onto his hands and knees when - flop - down to his tummy he would go. Then he would get mad and scooch backwards till he was stopped by a solid object. Quin is doing these exact same things. So, babyproofing, here we come! Do I worry that they crawl so late? Absolutely not. I firmly believe that a child is not advanced when they do things "early" in the first year. I think all babies need to be able to do certain things in the first year, and as long as they do them, the "when" doesn't matter. My first two were walking and talking well by 13 months, then reading and writing by 3, and are now both in special smart kid classes, so I'm not worried about the first year "slownesses". lol (Is that bragging? *wink*)
I took Andur off the bottle (and formula) when he was 11 months old. Natalie was 10 months old. I remember worrying that I was doing it too soon, but now that Quin's doing just what she did, I'm a little less worried. He won't drink it any more, so I just give him whole milk in a cup. He went all day yesterday without a bottle and most of the day before that and he seems just fine. *sigh* That doesn't mean I don't feel guilty for not giving him one. If he was starving and not eating food well and being cranky all the time, I'd feel even more guilty, but he's fine so I need to remember that and just be fine, too.
He still only has the two bottom teeth. I swear those stinkin' top teeth are going to stay hidden forever. I can SEE them. They're SO CLOSE to breaking through! Why must we all be tortured so?? Stupid toothies. And to top it off, it seems he's working on more bottom teeth. Drool and slimey fingers are the norm for us these days. A bit of whine is added to the pot around 4:30pm everyday, so that's been fun.
He's almost out of his 12 month clothes... thank goodness for a nice supply of 18 month clothes. (Thanks again to all who contributed!) He's my sweet little chunk and is getting quite ornery. The last couple days, when I'm holding him, he pushes away from me as if to say he wants down. Not that he goes very far, but we're getting there. Why do they have to grow up so fast??
I didn't think to take a recent picture, and he's napping, so that'll be a later post. (Not that I'm doing it for you, this is for posterity, duh.)
Anyway. Geesh, time... can't you just SLOW DOWN???
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Changing the future
My son, Andur, since he was able to speak, has proclaimed vehemently that he's going to be a train engineer when he grows up. He's never swayed, ever.
Until now.
He's been into space as of late and has been reading a lot about it and asking questions about it and even switching from his usual Lego Indiana Jones and Star Wars playing to rocket building and riding (well, ok... Indiana Jones is the pilot of this rocket, but still...) The other day we even watched October Sky and Apollo 13 (at his request). He's been outside with his cheezy telescope trying to see Mars, doing research papers at school on planets and has Googled every planet to see pictures of it and learn about it.
When we were driving home from scouts the other night, he says to me (while looking out my sunroof) "I'm going to the moon someday."
After the movies we watched, he said he wanted to be an astronaut.
I'm beginning to wonder if his new-found goal is one of childish dreams or one of reality. Yes, he's only eight. But ever since I could remember, when people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I said a mom every time. (And a mom I am.) I'd like to think my boy is like me in that he knows what he wants and he'll do whatever it takes to get it.
They're going to be building a Challenger Center here in town (hopefully soon - they have the land set aside already and a sign saying future home of... and all that) so that will be a good thing.
We'll have to see what the future brings, right?
Until now.
He's been into space as of late and has been reading a lot about it and asking questions about it and even switching from his usual Lego Indiana Jones and Star Wars playing to rocket building and riding (well, ok... Indiana Jones is the pilot of this rocket, but still...) The other day we even watched October Sky and Apollo 13 (at his request). He's been outside with his cheezy telescope trying to see Mars, doing research papers at school on planets and has Googled every planet to see pictures of it and learn about it.
When we were driving home from scouts the other night, he says to me (while looking out my sunroof) "I'm going to the moon someday."
After the movies we watched, he said he wanted to be an astronaut.
I'm beginning to wonder if his new-found goal is one of childish dreams or one of reality. Yes, he's only eight. But ever since I could remember, when people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I said a mom every time. (And a mom I am.) I'd like to think my boy is like me in that he knows what he wants and he'll do whatever it takes to get it.
They're going to be building a Challenger Center here in town (hopefully soon - they have the land set aside already and a sign saying future home of... and all that) so that will be a good thing.
We'll have to see what the future brings, right?
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Guilty until proven innocent.
I know this is my third post today, but I have a lot on my mind I wanted to share. ;)
Last week at school, my son was "Star of the Week." He got to bring in a couple things everyday that told about who he is. Of course, being 8, he thought this meant bring in a bunch of toys. His teacher specifically asked for them to NOT bring in just toys and to only bring in 3-4. He brought in eight. However, yesterday, he came home with seven. Someone decided they needed one of his toys more than he did.
I was angry, to say the least. Angry with Andur for bringing in so many, a little angry with the teacher (have to blame someone, right??) and angry with whichever snot-nosed kid five-finger-discounted my son's highly sought after, long-time-asked-for Christmas present.
First, I need to mention that Andur said his friend (we'll call him "Blake", even though that's his real name but no one knows him so who cares, right?) said he saw a bigger kid wearing (get this) a black cape come in and take it. Now, as knowing adults, we're all thinking the same thing here - why didn't he stop this alleged thief? Why didn't he tell the teacher? Knowing a tad about psychology and having more than a little common sense, I'm thinking this kid did it. He who smelt it, dealt it, am I right?
Anyway, back to my story. This morning, his teacher calls and said she's going to have the counselor come in, let Andur talk to the class about his feelings for this toy and even talk to a few kids (ahem, "Blake") whom she thinks may be the culprits. She eases my unfair anger towards her, afterall, she did say that anything we want kept untouched, let her know and she'd put it up on a high shelf. I told her the "Blake" story and she agreed with me on my theory.
After a few minutes of being at school, I get a call. It's Andur. "Guess what Mom? Blake isn't the one who took it! He's the one who found it! We were in the mud room (coat room) and he said 'Look what I found?' and took it out of his backpack!" Mm hm.
I could be angry. I could threaten to call his mom. I could say "I told you so!" to whoever I want to. Instead, I was instantly filled with gratitude and, yes, pride. I was proud of Blake. What a brave thing to do. I told Andur to tell him I was very, very proud of him. We all know what happened. We all know how he came to "find" this stupid toy. But he did the brave and honest thing and gave it back. I'm very proud of him, indeed.
As for my son's innocence and trust in his friend? Let him keep it. It'll be ripped away from him all too soon.
Last week at school, my son was "Star of the Week." He got to bring in a couple things everyday that told about who he is. Of course, being 8, he thought this meant bring in a bunch of toys. His teacher specifically asked for them to NOT bring in just toys and to only bring in 3-4. He brought in eight. However, yesterday, he came home with seven. Someone decided they needed one of his toys more than he did.
I was angry, to say the least. Angry with Andur for bringing in so many, a little angry with the teacher (have to blame someone, right??) and angry with whichever snot-nosed kid five-finger-discounted my son's highly sought after, long-time-asked-for Christmas present.
First, I need to mention that Andur said his friend (we'll call him "Blake", even though that's his real name but no one knows him so who cares, right?) said he saw a bigger kid wearing (get this) a black cape come in and take it. Now, as knowing adults, we're all thinking the same thing here - why didn't he stop this alleged thief? Why didn't he tell the teacher? Knowing a tad about psychology and having more than a little common sense, I'm thinking this kid did it. He who smelt it, dealt it, am I right?
Anyway, back to my story. This morning, his teacher calls and said she's going to have the counselor come in, let Andur talk to the class about his feelings for this toy and even talk to a few kids (ahem, "Blake") whom she thinks may be the culprits. She eases my unfair anger towards her, afterall, she did say that anything we want kept untouched, let her know and she'd put it up on a high shelf. I told her the "Blake" story and she agreed with me on my theory.
After a few minutes of being at school, I get a call. It's Andur. "Guess what Mom? Blake isn't the one who took it! He's the one who found it! We were in the mud room (coat room) and he said 'Look what I found?' and took it out of his backpack!" Mm hm.
I could be angry. I could threaten to call his mom. I could say "I told you so!" to whoever I want to. Instead, I was instantly filled with gratitude and, yes, pride. I was proud of Blake. What a brave thing to do. I told Andur to tell him I was very, very proud of him. We all know what happened. We all know how he came to "find" this stupid toy. But he did the brave and honest thing and gave it back. I'm very proud of him, indeed.
As for my son's innocence and trust in his friend? Let him keep it. It'll be ripped away from him all too soon.
(Your name here.)
I am not in competition with __________, only with myself.
I do not have to be better than ___________, I only have to be a better me.
I do not have to lose more than __________, only more than I am now.
I do not have to do more than __________, only more than I've done before.
I do not have to know more than __________, only more than I did before.
When we compare ourselves with others, we never win.
I do not have to be better than ___________, I only have to be a better me.
I do not have to lose more than __________, only more than I am now.
I do not have to do more than __________, only more than I've done before.
I do not have to know more than __________, only more than I did before.
When we compare ourselves with others, we never win.
Gotta love 'em
My kids didn't have school on Monday but still wanted to go out for "recess", which, of course, I am all for... but they wanted to ride their bikes. It's all slushy and dirty out still so I said no at first, but then said fine, just wear your helmets and stay out of the water.
At least he had his helmet on.
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Yesterday, Natalie brought home a project they work on in first grade. It's a time capsule... a list of things they think or like or whatever that we're supposed to keep until, and open on, the day they graduate.
This is what she thinks she'll see in the future:
Keep dreamin' sister.
I love my kids. :)
Monday, January 18, 2010
It's Monday
I just remembered to change my page and quote... but have other things to do, so tomorrow will be my Monday. ;)
Committing
That word just scares me.
BUT, it's nearing the end of January so I thought I'd make my goal setting *gulp* official.
Although, I think I've figured out why it's been so difficult this year. In years past, I've been so excited to make goals and start things anew... but then I abandon them after a while and never get to the accomplishing part. This year, I wanted to actually accomplish something, hence my making small, attainable goals. At first, I had a list handy where I'd write down every little thing I wanted to change... that was getting pretty overwhelming. I'm good at that.
I've decided to think about it and narrow it down to just a few things I'd really like to set as "goals". There are also some other things I'd like to change, but I've been working on those things before now and will probably always be working on those things so they aren't really my definition of a goal: something that has a beginning and an end.
Here are the goals I'm *gulp* committing to this year, I've even categorized them (heehee):
Physical: Lose 5 lbs. a month until I'm at my goal weight. Realistic? Maybe... still gonna try.
Spiritual: I'm going to read the Ensign in it's entirety every month.
Mental: This is my confidence-boosting goal, and can be followed here.
So... that means the half-a-candy bar and box of Lemon Heads from this weekend are up for grabs. Any takers?
To all of you who've been brave enough to make yourself better this year, good luck!
BUT, it's nearing the end of January so I thought I'd make my goal setting *gulp* official.
Although, I think I've figured out why it's been so difficult this year. In years past, I've been so excited to make goals and start things anew... but then I abandon them after a while and never get to the accomplishing part. This year, I wanted to actually accomplish something, hence my making small, attainable goals. At first, I had a list handy where I'd write down every little thing I wanted to change... that was getting pretty overwhelming. I'm good at that.
I've decided to think about it and narrow it down to just a few things I'd really like to set as "goals". There are also some other things I'd like to change, but I've been working on those things before now and will probably always be working on those things so they aren't really my definition of a goal: something that has a beginning and an end.
Here are the goals I'm *gulp* committing to this year, I've even categorized them (heehee):
Physical: Lose 5 lbs. a month until I'm at my goal weight. Realistic? Maybe... still gonna try.
Spiritual: I'm going to read the Ensign in it's entirety every month.
Mental: This is my confidence-boosting goal, and can be followed here.
So... that means the half-a-candy bar and box of Lemon Heads from this weekend are up for grabs. Any takers?
To all of you who've been brave enough to make yourself better this year, good luck!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
...and we don't even miss it!
We turned off our cable two years ago and haven't regreted it since. Our movie day is Saturday (usually, unless we watch one as a family) and they only get one hour on the computer each, per week (unless their obedience level drops a notch or two, then it gets suspended indefinitely... like now, for instance... lol).
Anyway, Andur went to the planetarium today and it sparked his interest in planets again, so he decided to do some research on each one:
Natalie took it upon herself to look up frogs and write some things about them to give to her teacher... not because her teacher likes frogs (I asked her), but just because:
They're using some old encyclopedia's I used on book reports and such when I was a kid (thanks Mom!)... I even found some of my old notes in the Helen Keller section.
We were all watching waaaaay too much TV and an article in a church magazine inspired us to make some changes. It not only saves us money, but my kids find themselves doing other things besides watching TV and we couldn't be happier. ;)
Your faith might be able to move mountains, but my daughter can crush them.
Overheard this morning while Andur and Natalie were playing:
"Natalie, you just crushed Mt. Everest."
Didn't know she had it in her. Or that Mt. Everest could fit so nicely in my living room.
View from my couch:
"Natalie, you just crushed Mt. Everest."
Didn't know she had it in her. Or that Mt. Everest could fit so nicely in my living room.
View from my couch:
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Monday, January 11, 2010
How's your GPS signal?
The newest book I'm reading, "Might As Well Laugh About It Now", by Marie Osmond, is very, very good so far. I'm just a couple chapters in, and this quote stops me dead in my tracks:
(Her daughter's telling her about a GPS she bought for her.) "I knew it would rock your world. It talks to you. Tells you exactly where to go. All you have to do is listen."
How often to we go through life, those of us who allow ourselves to be guided by the Holy Ghost, the thing that some refer to as "the Spirit" or even our conscience, forgetting to listen? Such simple words, "All you have to do is listen", yet so powerful. How much easier would our lives be if we always remembered to listen? Sure, we'd still have our trials, but wouldn't simply "listening" make them easier to bear? So many times, when I'm facing something difficult in my life, do I pray and then just as quickly move on to something else, forgetting to be still and wait for the answer to a question, or the guidance that I was so desperately seeking.
And what a wonderful gift we've been given! Our very own GPS system to guide us throughout our lives! My son was baptized recently and one thing I made sure he knew was that once we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, we have to use it or we lose it. Even more recently, I realized I've gotten too comfortable in my life and started to be lax in the things that make it comfortable in the first place. At that moment, when I stood still long enough to realize I was forgetting to do the most simple yet most important things, I realized I was losing something... my "GPS batteries" were "dying", causing my clear signal to fade. I've been getting too caught up in other things to even notice. What would've happened had they faded completely? Where would my life lead, unguided? That's a scary thought, as I've seen many lives lead the wrong direction because they thought they could find their way without their GPS system, relying on their own sense of direction. And by the time that happens, one is usually so lost, they don't care to be found again.
I don't want that to happen. I love that my GPS knows this about me and led me to a book that would subtly, yet, profoundly, remind me to charge my batteries before any listening I might remember to do would be too late.
I'm sure this book will get me thinking about my life differently in many ways, but I'm thinking so far, this is the best way it could've affected me. Thanks, K, for referring it to me. :)
(Her daughter's telling her about a GPS she bought for her.) "I knew it would rock your world. It talks to you. Tells you exactly where to go. All you have to do is listen."
How often to we go through life, those of us who allow ourselves to be guided by the Holy Ghost, the thing that some refer to as "the Spirit" or even our conscience, forgetting to listen? Such simple words, "All you have to do is listen", yet so powerful. How much easier would our lives be if we always remembered to listen? Sure, we'd still have our trials, but wouldn't simply "listening" make them easier to bear? So many times, when I'm facing something difficult in my life, do I pray and then just as quickly move on to something else, forgetting to be still and wait for the answer to a question, or the guidance that I was so desperately seeking.
And what a wonderful gift we've been given! Our very own GPS system to guide us throughout our lives! My son was baptized recently and one thing I made sure he knew was that once we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, we have to use it or we lose it. Even more recently, I realized I've gotten too comfortable in my life and started to be lax in the things that make it comfortable in the first place. At that moment, when I stood still long enough to realize I was forgetting to do the most simple yet most important things, I realized I was losing something... my "GPS batteries" were "dying", causing my clear signal to fade. I've been getting too caught up in other things to even notice. What would've happened had they faded completely? Where would my life lead, unguided? That's a scary thought, as I've seen many lives lead the wrong direction because they thought they could find their way without their GPS system, relying on their own sense of direction. And by the time that happens, one is usually so lost, they don't care to be found again.
I don't want that to happen. I love that my GPS knows this about me and led me to a book that would subtly, yet, profoundly, remind me to charge my batteries before any listening I might remember to do would be too late.
I'm sure this book will get me thinking about my life differently in many ways, but I'm thinking so far, this is the best way it could've affected me. Thanks, K, for referring it to me. :)
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Ambitious
Last Monday for our Family Home Evening, we sat down and talked about our goals for the new year and I had us all write down some of the things we want to accomplish. My kids, I'm thinking, didn't quite get the meaning of "attainable".
These were some of Natalie's goals:
I will always obey. (Ha, that one went down the drain in less than two hours.)
I want to learn how to ride a horse.
I want to learn how to be a teacher.
I want to learn Japanese.
And all this year, too. Nice. Although, the horse riding thing might be doable... one of the couples in charge of our F.A.S.T. program said we're more than welcome to visit them and ride their horses and they made it quite clear they were serious. So, we'll have to see about that.
This is Andur's full list, mistakes included:
I will have one plate full every meal.
I will learn the ducth language.
I will learn French.
I will Learn Itallien.
I will Learn greece.
I will Learn Russin.
I will Learnto Drive how to ice skate.
I will Lear the rest of germen.
Hm. Well, I hate to discourage the boy (although the crossed out words were done because of a look I gave him), so today we went to the library and checked out a couple CDs that will teach him french. I told him I'd listen to them, too, because after 4.5 years of it, I could maybe ask you where the bathroom is and thank you most kindly for telling me. ;)
Perhaps I should've been more specific or... who knows. Gotta love'em.
These were some of Natalie's goals:
I will always obey. (Ha, that one went down the drain in less than two hours.)
I want to learn how to ride a horse.
I want to learn how to be a teacher.
I want to learn Japanese.
And all this year, too. Nice. Although, the horse riding thing might be doable... one of the couples in charge of our F.A.S.T. program said we're more than welcome to visit them and ride their horses and they made it quite clear they were serious. So, we'll have to see about that.
This is Andur's full list, mistakes included:
I will have one plate full every meal.
I will learn the ducth language.
I will learn French.
I will Learn Itallien.
I will Learn greece.
I will Learn Russin.
I will Learn
I will Lear the rest of germen.
Hm. Well, I hate to discourage the boy (although the crossed out words were done because of a look I gave him), so today we went to the library and checked out a couple CDs that will teach him french. I told him I'd listen to them, too, because after 4.5 years of it, I could maybe ask you where the bathroom is and thank you most kindly for telling me. ;)
Perhaps I should've been more specific or... who knows. Gotta love'em.
On the road to discovery...
So, I've been trying this coupon thing on for size for a couple weeks now, but I kept hearing about match-ups or whatever.... too much work is what I said to that.
Until yesterday.
I've been following a couple of coupon blogs lately, and seriously feel exhausted just reading the dumb things... who has time for all this, really??
But, I found a deal yesterday on one that just sounded great.
And it was.
Last night, I went to Walgreens and got rubbing alcohol, two things of Neosporin Lip Health, some peanut butter M&Ms, and some chewy nerds, all for $2.96, thanks to register rewards and coupons and the sale WG was having! I should have spent $15.08!! That's just amazing.
What was really nice is someone else even did the work for me and just told me where to go. Perfect.
That wasn't so much work afterall.
;)
Until yesterday.
I've been following a couple of coupon blogs lately, and seriously feel exhausted just reading the dumb things... who has time for all this, really??
But, I found a deal yesterday on one that just sounded great.
And it was.
Last night, I went to Walgreens and got rubbing alcohol, two things of Neosporin Lip Health, some peanut butter M&Ms, and some chewy nerds, all for $2.96, thanks to register rewards and coupons and the sale WG was having! I should have spent $15.08!! That's just amazing.
What was really nice is someone else even did the work for me and just told me where to go. Perfect.
That wasn't so much work afterall.
;)
Friday, January 8, 2010
9 Months, 13 days, 4 hours, 28 minutes...
That's how old Quin is this very moment.
Last Monday, this is what he weighed/measured: 20 lbs. 4 oz. (55th percentile) 29 3/4 in. (95th percentile!). So, yeah, he's tall.
As far as everything he should be doing by this age, he's spot on. He's just not crawling. lol I'm not worried, though. Like I've said before, my other two didn't crawl till they were both 10 months. The sillies.
This is how Quin likes to look at us these days - he tilts his head way to the side, almost upside down sometimes. If we tilt our head to the other side, he of course mimicks us and does the same. So cute!
Last Monday, this is what he weighed/measured: 20 lbs. 4 oz. (55th percentile) 29 3/4 in. (95th percentile!). So, yeah, he's tall.
As far as everything he should be doing by this age, he's spot on. He's just not crawling. lol I'm not worried, though. Like I've said before, my other two didn't crawl till they were both 10 months. The sillies.
This is how Quin likes to look at us these days - he tilts his head way to the side, almost upside down sometimes. If we tilt our head to the other side, he of course mimicks us and does the same. So cute!
I'm kind of dreading the day he starts to crawl... I haven't baby-proofed anything!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
...but that would mean actually committing to something...
I wanted to set some goals for this year, but haven't actually started them, yet. One is to lose weight. Yes, I'm saying it out loud... I never really did before because why would I want the world to know if I fail? Then again, if the world knows I'm trying to do it, wouldn't it be more of an incentive to actually do it? It's small goals I'm setting, like 5 lbs. a month, and so far I'm down one for this month, so that's not too bad for having not actually done anything, right? Well, I'm eating less, kind of, but anyway... I'm thinking my first goal should be to only be on the computer a certain amount of time everyday.... like maybe one hour. That way, I'll have more time to do the things I said I was going to do in the first place... hmmm... there's a thought. I do like what Dr. Laura said on her blog about setting goals - keep them small and achievable. That, I can do. :)
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Breaking all the rules
Well, not all the rules. Just the one that says no bubbles in the house.
This next one is cool - you can see the bubble in his hand right before it popped:
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Not-so-coupon-queen...
...but still saving a bundle.
I've been addicted to coupons, lately, and printed out waaaay more than I'll use, but learned to find and print the ones I need so as not to waste paper and ink... also, I've been shopping the ads for my local grocers. I've never been one to do this, as my former opinion was "what a pain", but have found it's actually worth it.
Between sale ads and couponing, I've only gone over my budget by $10-$12 my last two shopping trips, but only because I've been buying extra non-list items like chocolate chips or an extra bag of on-sale chicken. I haven't even come close to my budget in so long! And I've been coming home with so much more, it's incredible!
So, yay for coupon-hunting and sales at different stores! My budget is loving this! (And so is my pantry!)
I've been addicted to coupons, lately, and printed out waaaay more than I'll use, but learned to find and print the ones I need so as not to waste paper and ink... also, I've been shopping the ads for my local grocers. I've never been one to do this, as my former opinion was "what a pain", but have found it's actually worth it.
Between sale ads and couponing, I've only gone over my budget by $10-$12 my last two shopping trips, but only because I've been buying extra non-list items like chocolate chips or an extra bag of on-sale chicken. I haven't even come close to my budget in so long! And I've been coming home with so much more, it's incredible!
So, yay for coupon-hunting and sales at different stores! My budget is loving this! (And so is my pantry!)
*sigh* It's lost.
We lost Quin's beloved bink yesterday. We've been able to find the stupid thing every other time in the past, but, alas, yesterday we couldn't. I even called the last store we were in to see if they found it and the dear lady I spoke with even walked the "path" we took while in the store looking for it while I was on the phone with her, heaven bless her! But, to no avail. Dang it. Matt said maybe that's a sign we're ready to be rid of it.
Yeah, right.
Thank goodness Quin's been taking the back-up bink he never liked but now has settled for.
Yeah, right.
Thank goodness Quin's been taking the back-up bink he never liked but now has settled for.
Mondays
Instead of changing my blog background every other day like I have been lately, I've decided to just do it on Mondays. Not that you care, right? I'll be changing my quote for the moment then, too. Anyway. :)
Happy Monday! Except today's not Monday.... ha ha... I knew that. But I didn't get on the computer yesterday so for some odd reason that's affecting my day and it sure feels like Monday.
Happy Monday! Except today's not Monday.... ha ha... I knew that. But I didn't get on the computer yesterday so for some odd reason that's affecting my day and it sure feels like Monday.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Nesting?
I have the urge lately to totally overhaul my house. I want to go through every crevice and reorganize if need be. I'm fairly organized as it is, but the need for control is screaming through my veins and this is the way I let it loose. Our Christmas stuff has been put away for a few days, so that's done. I keep noticing things that need a good scrubbin' and add them to my mental list. My new day planner needs to be filled in, that's one thing. My coat closet is desperate for a make-over. My desk could use a good once-over... The list goes on.
Now if spring would just hurry up and get here so I can put a name to this cleaning-frenzied feeling...
Now if spring would just hurry up and get here so I can put a name to this cleaning-frenzied feeling...
Friday, January 1, 2010
Happy New Year!
Last night was awesome! We just stayed home and had some of our good friends over for games and munchies and we laughed our hineys into the new year. I wouldn't have it any other way. I didn't take pictures, but that was on purpose - I never do when I'm too busy enjoying the moment.
Natalie didn't make it past 9:30pm, but Andur and our friend's kids welcomed the new year right along with us. We played Apples to Apples, Pictionary, Quelf (so hee-larious!), Balderdash and had awesome bean/cheese/other things dip, my rockin' 7 layer dip, homemade vege trays, homemade chocolate chip cookies and toasted the new year with non-alcoholic beverages. We had a blast!
Hope your night was as good as ours and that your year will be as good as you make it! Ours will be, that's for sure!
Happy New Year!
Natalie didn't make it past 9:30pm, but Andur and our friend's kids welcomed the new year right along with us. We played Apples to Apples, Pictionary, Quelf (so hee-larious!), Balderdash and had awesome bean/cheese/other things dip, my rockin' 7 layer dip, homemade vege trays, homemade chocolate chip cookies and toasted the new year with non-alcoholic beverages. We had a blast!
Hope your night was as good as ours and that your year will be as good as you make it! Ours will be, that's for sure!
Happy New Year!
This year, I will NOT be paving a road...
"New Year’s Day: Now is the accepted time to make your regular annual good resolutions. Next week you can begin paving hell with them as usual."
- Mark Twain
Pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens
American author and humorist
1835-1910
I read this on this blog, as I have a lot of good things, and really wanted it to be part of my post today.
Ouch, right?
Not for me. Not this year. I realized this morning that my husband and I set a goal together last year and actually accomplished it! How amazing is that?! Anyway, we're proud of ourselves and have even ventured to set more goals for ourselves and our family for this upcoming year.
I am the queen of good intentions and the paving of said roads with them, but this year I want to change that. Nay, I'm going to change that. I've already started unpaving roads, here. The thing I really need to remember is that it's not a competition among others, it's a bettering of myself ONLY. Why is that such a challenge for me? Why, when I hear of someone doing something great, or - heaven forbid - doing something I wanted to do, do I feel bitterness? That's one thing I'm going to change this year... not only am I going to be happy for those who succeed, but I'm going to boost my own confidence in more ways than one.
I've decided not only to set some goals that have an end, but to just simply change some things permanently. Whether or not I'm going to share those things publicly is totally at my own discretion, as that is one thing I plan to work on - being more careful what I blog about and not spending so much time on the stupid computer.
I love New Year's day... it always makes me think spring is just around the corner. And with spring comes new life, new starts, new everything. And, man, does it smell good!
Happy New Year!
- Mark Twain
Pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens
American author and humorist
1835-1910
I read this on this blog, as I have a lot of good things, and really wanted it to be part of my post today.
Ouch, right?
Not for me. Not this year. I realized this morning that my husband and I set a goal together last year and actually accomplished it! How amazing is that?! Anyway, we're proud of ourselves and have even ventured to set more goals for ourselves and our family for this upcoming year.
I am the queen of good intentions and the paving of said roads with them, but this year I want to change that. Nay, I'm going to change that. I've already started unpaving roads, here. The thing I really need to remember is that it's not a competition among others, it's a bettering of myself ONLY. Why is that such a challenge for me? Why, when I hear of someone doing something great, or - heaven forbid - doing something I wanted to do, do I feel bitterness? That's one thing I'm going to change this year... not only am I going to be happy for those who succeed, but I'm going to boost my own confidence in more ways than one.
I've decided not only to set some goals that have an end, but to just simply change some things permanently. Whether or not I'm going to share those things publicly is totally at my own discretion, as that is one thing I plan to work on - being more careful what I blog about and not spending so much time on the stupid computer.
I love New Year's day... it always makes me think spring is just around the corner. And with spring comes new life, new starts, new everything. And, man, does it smell good!
Happy New Year!
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