The eve of the New Year is upon us, and 2016 rolls in at midnight. What the heck...I'm still trying to remember to write 2015 on paperwork. True story, sometimes I really have to stop and think about what year it is. This problem comes with having children. I have a hard enough time remembering their birth dates with years, and you want me to remember what year it is now. Calendars are hard...
You can't turn on TV today, or for the past week, without some type of year in review special running. It's TV law - it's the same law that declares the Hallmark channel can't have any programming from November to New Year without it having a Christmas theme, and ABC Family must stretch a 90 minute movie into three hours because of commercials. TV law. Santa must save Christmas, and all news channels must have a year in review, otherwise TV viewing is worthless. So, I am throwing in my own year in review. It's like an end of year card, only more honest.
I'm not a New Year resolution person. I resolve to do new things, or better myself, on a weekly basis all year long. I resolve to read more....I didn't read enough this year. I resolve to read with my kids more (for crying out loud we will read for a whole month of Book-It if it kills me) - didn't do that well this year either. No Pizza Hut coupon for this family. I resolved to wash the windows this year - I finally knocked that off my list in early December during one of our warm weather streaks. For Christmas, we can see outside. You're welcome kids! I resolved to exercise more - Yep, I walked quite a bit, but let's not discuss the well intended elliptical that's sitting in my basement. Torture machine, that's what that is. I resolved to be more patient with my kids - I think I resolved that in a morning, and by afternoon everyone was in a time-out, including me. I resolved to date my husband more - um, well...we sat by each other at my work Christmas party - does that count? We dressed nice, and I think he put his arm around me.
Here's the thing - I am always thinking through ways to improve myself, improve my family, make us healthier, happier, more others oriented, more Jesus oriented, more kind with our words, more neat and organized with our home...oh, resolving for me happens all the live-long day. I'm a resolve-a-holic. "Hi, I'm Kristen and I resolve to do better ever day....Hi Kristen, we love you!" "Look at Kristen all resolving and stuff, she's so cute and well intended."
I did resolve to get healthier this year. Not at the start of 2015, but somewhere around Easter. One too many Reese's eggs and I knew I could live better than I was. I am pleased to report that I have taken better control of my health. Except this Christmas...I'll just be honest. We've been in survival mode this month, or so it feels. Busy schedules, parties to attend, parties to host, kids that have been sick, I've been sick, and so on. I know some do really well under this pressure and choose healthy eating despite the temptation. Well, good for you...really, good for you....seriously, I'm just so stinkin' happy for you. I am still learning and fumbling my way to good health. I have taken off almost 35lbs this past year. I am focusing on what I have accomplished, and I am determined to keep it all in perspective. I have a better understanding of what my body likes and doesn't. I have learned to listen to it. This December, though, my body is begging for January to get here so I'll stop picking at Christmas cookies. I do resolve to continue on my quest for good health this 2016...but I'll also resolve to talk patiently to my kids more, read more, walk more, clean my house more, take time out for my husband more and for Jesus more, and all those things. I resolve to keep perspective of all my good intentions. Or, I at least resolve to recognize that I'm a resolve-a-holic that can't do it all.
Welcome 2016. I resolve to sleep through the ball dropping at midnight. I don't have the energy to ring you in properly.
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Thoughts on the School Christmas Party
So, here's the thing, I have read the posts and seen the pins as to what "not" to give teacher's for Christmas. They're tired of mugs. Candy and cookies are coming out their ears. Homemade crayons and drawings are sweet, but what does one do with them? One post suggested they want wine...nice, yea, I'll just have my kid deliver you a bottle of wine to school and we'll see what happens....6:00 news, anyone? And on the list goes. Believe me, I get it. I appreciate my kids teachers, so I try to do something for each of them to say thank you. I've stayed away from mugs and candy, and if you ever get a hand-made gift from my house it's because I caved under pressure and hated the project the whole time I worked on it. I typically buy scented hand soaps since it's practical, useful, and most everyone likes them.
But, here's where I get to switch things up a bit. I would like to write a letter to teachers about class Christmas parties. My kids love them. It's fun. It's a change in routine. It builds enthusiasm for Christmas vacation. All those things and more. I completely support the party. Here's what I'm having a hard time supporting....bear with me....the gift exchange! The kids come home with the notes saying bring a gift for a girl/boy for $5 or less. That was such a cute fun thing when I only had one in school. I didn't think twice about it. Well, several years later and here I sit with three out of four in school, and some are involved in extra curricular activities and every. single. blasted. thing. requires a gift exchange. Oh, I know, it's not a big deal to some of you, and that's fine. But, this is my space and I get to write about what's on my mind, and this is on my mind.
When my middle schooler told me this morning that her class was doing an exchange I asked if it was another $5 limit thing. She said, "well $5 is the minimum. We can spend up to $25." I'm sorry, what? She also told me that this budget was set by her class, not a teacher. Obviously kids without jobs are so great at setting budgets. I immediately informed her that $25 would not be spent and that's the most ridiculous budget I've heard for a school exchange, and I may have rattled off a few other thoughts, as well. She assured me she didn't expect me to spend that much, and I said you're darn right I won't be spending that much...I don't spend that much on relatives I actually like, so I certainly won't spend that much for a school gift exchange. Then we headed to Wal-Mart and she spoke softly to me the whole way there because I was clearly one $25 comment away from slipping off the deep end.
Here's the thing - I want to appreciate the teacher's who invest in my kids. I want them to have a fun party in class and I will gladly send in cups, or napkins, or pretzels, or all three if necessary. But, spending $5 here and $5 there is feeling like a lot in a season of spending. In the midst of Christmas buying I still have groceries and diapers to purchase. We try to pay cash for gifts so we don't have bills into June from the holiday's. We still need to put gas in the car and buy the food for Holiday baking and dinner parties at relatives and all the things that come with this time of year. So, I'd love to offer a solution to the $5 gift:
- Each child picks a name and has to make a card for that person with 3 things they like about them written inside. That's it...here's your card, the end.
- One item from the Dollar Tree...Kids like candy or silly putty or crazy cups...what more do they need?
- Everyone brings in a canned good and it get's donated to the local food pantry. Thinking of others outside our walls, and make that part of your celebration on party day.
These are just a few ideas. It's nice to consider your friends, but maybe the gift exchange doesn't need to happen? Maybe the party and the party games and crafts to make and take home are plenty. Maybe it's fine to stop there. I think it is. Maybe the gift exchanges happen when they're older, have jobs, and can buy their friends gifts themselves?
I know, this won't end the class gift exchange, but perhaps it will provoke thought to consider an alternative. Parents are maxed out with their time and finances...at least most of the people I know, are. Let your child shop with you and choose their gift to their teacher, or they can make the card to include with their teacher's gift. Let them consider their teacher who invests in them, and not worry about buying little Johnny a $5 gift that will break and be tossed in the corner of his toy box within a day or two. Just a thought.
So, I'll send in pretzels for the class party and I won't buy you another mug, and you ditch the $5 gift exchange....seems like a good deal to me.
But, here's where I get to switch things up a bit. I would like to write a letter to teachers about class Christmas parties. My kids love them. It's fun. It's a change in routine. It builds enthusiasm for Christmas vacation. All those things and more. I completely support the party. Here's what I'm having a hard time supporting....bear with me....the gift exchange! The kids come home with the notes saying bring a gift for a girl/boy for $5 or less. That was such a cute fun thing when I only had one in school. I didn't think twice about it. Well, several years later and here I sit with three out of four in school, and some are involved in extra curricular activities and every. single. blasted. thing. requires a gift exchange. Oh, I know, it's not a big deal to some of you, and that's fine. But, this is my space and I get to write about what's on my mind, and this is on my mind.
When my middle schooler told me this morning that her class was doing an exchange I asked if it was another $5 limit thing. She said, "well $5 is the minimum. We can spend up to $25." I'm sorry, what? She also told me that this budget was set by her class, not a teacher. Obviously kids without jobs are so great at setting budgets. I immediately informed her that $25 would not be spent and that's the most ridiculous budget I've heard for a school exchange, and I may have rattled off a few other thoughts, as well. She assured me she didn't expect me to spend that much, and I said you're darn right I won't be spending that much...I don't spend that much on relatives I actually like, so I certainly won't spend that much for a school gift exchange. Then we headed to Wal-Mart and she spoke softly to me the whole way there because I was clearly one $25 comment away from slipping off the deep end.
Here's the thing - I want to appreciate the teacher's who invest in my kids. I want them to have a fun party in class and I will gladly send in cups, or napkins, or pretzels, or all three if necessary. But, spending $5 here and $5 there is feeling like a lot in a season of spending. In the midst of Christmas buying I still have groceries and diapers to purchase. We try to pay cash for gifts so we don't have bills into June from the holiday's. We still need to put gas in the car and buy the food for Holiday baking and dinner parties at relatives and all the things that come with this time of year. So, I'd love to offer a solution to the $5 gift:
- Each child picks a name and has to make a card for that person with 3 things they like about them written inside. That's it...here's your card, the end.
- One item from the Dollar Tree...Kids like candy or silly putty or crazy cups...what more do they need?
- Everyone brings in a canned good and it get's donated to the local food pantry. Thinking of others outside our walls, and make that part of your celebration on party day.
These are just a few ideas. It's nice to consider your friends, but maybe the gift exchange doesn't need to happen? Maybe the party and the party games and crafts to make and take home are plenty. Maybe it's fine to stop there. I think it is. Maybe the gift exchanges happen when they're older, have jobs, and can buy their friends gifts themselves?
I know, this won't end the class gift exchange, but perhaps it will provoke thought to consider an alternative. Parents are maxed out with their time and finances...at least most of the people I know, are. Let your child shop with you and choose their gift to their teacher, or they can make the card to include with their teacher's gift. Let them consider their teacher who invests in them, and not worry about buying little Johnny a $5 gift that will break and be tossed in the corner of his toy box within a day or two. Just a thought.
So, I'll send in pretzels for the class party and I won't buy you another mug, and you ditch the $5 gift exchange....seems like a good deal to me.
Monday, November 16, 2015
Do This. Please.
I need to do a little straight shooting about a subject. Some of you might wonder why I'm taking on this topic, and others will be relieved that someone finally spoke out. Mirror spit. Yep, I said it. Mirror spit, mirror spit, mirror spit. It's not easy to talk about, but it needs to be addressed. It happens. We all do it. We brush. We spit. We spray the mirror. Our kids are the worst offenders. Flossing also produces mirror spit...but please, floss. Don't skip flossing because you might cause mirror spit. But, for crying out loud, wipe off the mirror spit! It's nasty.
In keeping with my "Do this, you'll feel better" series, I'm challenging you to take a good look at those mirrors. Do they have mirror spit? Have you gotten used to looking through the cloud of spit at your reflection? Well, you shouldn't have. Shame on you. That's gross.
It takes less than two minutes to remedy this dilemma. In the bathroom that my kids use this problem needs remedied daily. Yes, they can clean it off themselves. No, they do not think this is as big of a problem as I do, so they don't clean it themselves. They think I'm lame and that I overreact to the spit. I think they're messy and would live like pigs if I didn't intervene. We're at an impasse.
Here's what I do to keep up on it: I regularly change the hand towels in the bathrooms. When I take an old towel down I wet a corner of it and wipe down the mirror. Then I use the dry side to dry the mirror. That's it. It doesn't streak, and it gets that nasty spit off the mirror. No Windex. No sponges. No paper towels. Just a simple wipe off when I'm changing out towels. If Windex is more your thing, go for it.
You might be thinking, "what's her problem? It's just a little spit, who cares. I can see why her kids think she overreacts." First, simmer down. Second, I promise that if you clean off your mirrors you'll feel better and understand what I'm talking about. And if someone could convince my kids that they, too, would feel better, that'd be great...
Friday, October 30, 2015
Do This: You'll Feel Better
I'm thinking I should be making a list of all the things I'm not getting done this week, lest you think I have it all pulled together. Which would be total hog wash, as I am just faking "pulled togetherness" like the rest of you. At least I'm admitting it. So, here's what I'm not getting done this week: Bathrooms, dusting, mopping, putting laundry away, ironing, etc. I will get to those things, well most of them. Bathrooms are necessary. Dusting and mopping can be put off until you get to the point that you need to invite company over as a motivator to get these things done. "Honey, the house looks like we need to have company soon." Yea, yea, don't judge me...
However, there is a project I have been working on this week that is making me feel better, so I thought I'd share. I know that Christmas is not that far away, so I've been taking the opportunity now to sort toys, clothes, and books to donate. I've already given several items to friends that can use them, and the rest will be donated. I try to do this project often, but Christmas is a great motivation, since you know the offspring will be gleaning new items in less than two months.
If your kids are like mine, they have more than they need. They don't play with half of it, and they probably won't even notice it's missing. A phrase I say often is, "if I find it laying around, and you haven't been caring for it, then I assume you don't love it and can part with it." Usually there's whining and pleading, and promises to take good care of it (Dave can be so difficult sometimes...kidding). After I've said this I might return it to them and give it a little longer. If I find it tossed in a corner somewhere again, then it's gone. Currently I'm working through an ugly red plastic cat with my son....he swears he loves this thing. I swear it's hideous and I keep tripping over it. We'll see who wins. I don't get rid of keepsakes, and things I know they love. But seriously, sometimes you need to invade their room with a garbage bag and a donation box when they're not around, and have all the evidence gone before they get home. That's just smart parenting, yo!
Anyway, it's time to clean out the junk. Christmas is coming. More junk will be acquired. Give it to someone who might really love it. Anyone need an ugly red plastic cat? Stocking stuffer perhaps?
However, there is a project I have been working on this week that is making me feel better, so I thought I'd share. I know that Christmas is not that far away, so I've been taking the opportunity now to sort toys, clothes, and books to donate. I've already given several items to friends that can use them, and the rest will be donated. I try to do this project often, but Christmas is a great motivation, since you know the offspring will be gleaning new items in less than two months.
If your kids are like mine, they have more than they need. They don't play with half of it, and they probably won't even notice it's missing. A phrase I say often is, "if I find it laying around, and you haven't been caring for it, then I assume you don't love it and can part with it." Usually there's whining and pleading, and promises to take good care of it (Dave can be so difficult sometimes...kidding). After I've said this I might return it to them and give it a little longer. If I find it tossed in a corner somewhere again, then it's gone. Currently I'm working through an ugly red plastic cat with my son....he swears he loves this thing. I swear it's hideous and I keep tripping over it. We'll see who wins. I don't get rid of keepsakes, and things I know they love. But seriously, sometimes you need to invade their room with a garbage bag and a donation box when they're not around, and have all the evidence gone before they get home. That's just smart parenting, yo!
Anyway, it's time to clean out the junk. Christmas is coming. More junk will be acquired. Give it to someone who might really love it. Anyone need an ugly red plastic cat? Stocking stuffer perhaps?
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Someone Had To Say It
Okay, I'm diving really deep today with the topic. So hang on, and try not to get lost in the intellect of this post.
Minions. For crying out loud, please stop!! I can barely handle how much minion memes make me crazy. Sure, they're cute in the movie Despicable Me, Despicable Me 2, and The Minions. Sure, they're cute as a costume for Halloween, or a theme for your kiddos birthday party. I get all of that, and the aforementioned things. I actually have a child going as a minion this Halloween, so I'm not a total hater. But, I do not get the Minions as inspirational quotes thing. I just don't. It's no secret that I use social media. However, when every other post involves a meme with a minion I want to shut it all down and pray for our nation. So, in thinking I'm not the only one to feel this way, I decided to submit a few of the not-so-awesome minion memes as evidence. Articles A, B, C & D, your honor.
A. This minion says it best....actually, minions say things like Bedo, Bedo.
B. Why? Why would you ever think this is a good idea? "Kids, your dad & I need to tell you something. Nah, never mind, let the minion do it." Yep, that seems legit. (Praying for our nation)
C. Inspirational quotes with minions.
I never look at a minion and feel the need to put a poem next to him. The End.
I never look at a minion and feel the need to put a poem next to him. The End.
D. Your response to this blog post. Sorry.
Disclaimer: No minions were harmed in the writing of this post. If actual feelings were hurt because you love minions and want them everywhere, then I can't help you. This post reflects my personal feelings, and may or may not reflect the feelings of others. Perhaps there's a minion meme to best describe your feeling. I'll pray for you.
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Do This: You'll Feel Better
I've been brain-storming a series I can work into this blog. What I've come up with is sort of a self-help section. I find that there are certain things I do that make me feel better. Usually they involve cleaning, cooking or some type of domestic chore, and so I'm going to work them into a weekly segment titled "Do This: You'll Feel Better." Maybe, just maybe, I can inspire you to do them, too.
Here's what kind of suggestions you won't find here:
- Take a long hot bubble bath with candles, while reading a book and listening to Michael Buble'.
Let's be real! I'm a mom with four kids and a husband. Every best intention that could ever go into taking a long bubble bath is ruined by them needing just "one little thing." Child bangs on the door, "Dad said not to bother you, but I just really need to know where my green sock is, because I want to wear it in three weeks and I can only find one, and not the other, and if I don't find it tonight we have to go to the mall and find green socks, because I'll just die if I can't have them on the day I want them. Dad never knows where my stuff is. Mom. Are you in there, mom? I heard a splash. MOM? Dad, I think mom is drowning! I'm going to get the key and unlock the door."
Bath Over...I'll revisit this idea in 18 years! (side note: My husband is not incompetent. My children are. End of story.)
- Book an appointment at a salon and have your hair & nails done, and get a massage
Oh my, I wish I could say that this is what you should do. I would love to do this! I, on occasion, have had a pedicure. I get my hair done (like three times a year). I've had three professional massages my entire life. But, I can not imagine having them all done in the same day. Ain't no every-day-mom got the time, or money, for that. I would bemoan the money I'm spending on this, as it really should go to (insert child's name) new shoes/winter coat/boots/sports uniform, etc., etc. One day, I will post this. You know, when our budget is limitless, and my friends are in the same boat. I don't see that changing any time soon, and I don't want different friends.
Okay, so here's the one big thing I did this week that made me feel better, and it will make you feel better, too. I cleaned my refrigerator. That's it. Maybe this isn't a problem for you. And, bless you if it isn't - but I probably don't know you, relate to you, or like you. Keeping the fridge spotless is usually last on my weekly to-do list. But, I was looking at the crusted milk on the top shelf, and the crumbs settling in comfortably at the bottom of the fridge, and all the other stuff in the middle, and I just couldn't take one more day of living in this type of squalor. So, right before I needed to start dinner (I like projects, but I may not be good at the timing of these projects) I started pulling everything off the shelves, tossing things that I didn't even know we still had, and wiped, scrubbed and re-arranged everything neatly back in. A half hour or more past when I probably should have started dinner I had a neat, clean and fresh smelling fridge. So, pick a day, or make this a project over several days (one shelf at a time), and clean out your fridge. Don't forget the shelves in the door. It's amazing what ranch dressing does to that area, and you don't even realize it. Replace the opened containers of baking soda that you put in there two years ago, because you read somewhere that you were supposed to do that. Do it all. I promise, you'll feel better. I kind of like opening my fridge now and peaking in. And, just as all well-intended people do, I promise myself that it will never get that bad again.
Clean fridges make me feel better...I promise you will feel better, too. Who cares if dinner is a little late that night. Make them stare into the fridge until they praise you for your efforts before you feed them. It's character building....
Here's what kind of suggestions you won't find here:
- Take a long hot bubble bath with candles, while reading a book and listening to Michael Buble'.
Let's be real! I'm a mom with four kids and a husband. Every best intention that could ever go into taking a long bubble bath is ruined by them needing just "one little thing." Child bangs on the door, "Dad said not to bother you, but I just really need to know where my green sock is, because I want to wear it in three weeks and I can only find one, and not the other, and if I don't find it tonight we have to go to the mall and find green socks, because I'll just die if I can't have them on the day I want them. Dad never knows where my stuff is. Mom. Are you in there, mom? I heard a splash. MOM? Dad, I think mom is drowning! I'm going to get the key and unlock the door."
Bath Over...I'll revisit this idea in 18 years! (side note: My husband is not incompetent. My children are. End of story.)
- Book an appointment at a salon and have your hair & nails done, and get a massage
Oh my, I wish I could say that this is what you should do. I would love to do this! I, on occasion, have had a pedicure. I get my hair done (like three times a year). I've had three professional massages my entire life. But, I can not imagine having them all done in the same day. Ain't no every-day-mom got the time, or money, for that. I would bemoan the money I'm spending on this, as it really should go to (insert child's name) new shoes/winter coat/boots/sports uniform, etc., etc. One day, I will post this. You know, when our budget is limitless, and my friends are in the same boat. I don't see that changing any time soon, and I don't want different friends.
Okay, so here's the one big thing I did this week that made me feel better, and it will make you feel better, too. I cleaned my refrigerator. That's it. Maybe this isn't a problem for you. And, bless you if it isn't - but I probably don't know you, relate to you, or like you. Keeping the fridge spotless is usually last on my weekly to-do list. But, I was looking at the crusted milk on the top shelf, and the crumbs settling in comfortably at the bottom of the fridge, and all the other stuff in the middle, and I just couldn't take one more day of living in this type of squalor. So, right before I needed to start dinner (I like projects, but I may not be good at the timing of these projects) I started pulling everything off the shelves, tossing things that I didn't even know we still had, and wiped, scrubbed and re-arranged everything neatly back in. A half hour or more past when I probably should have started dinner I had a neat, clean and fresh smelling fridge. So, pick a day, or make this a project over several days (one shelf at a time), and clean out your fridge. Don't forget the shelves in the door. It's amazing what ranch dressing does to that area, and you don't even realize it. Replace the opened containers of baking soda that you put in there two years ago, because you read somewhere that you were supposed to do that. Do it all. I promise, you'll feel better. I kind of like opening my fridge now and peaking in. And, just as all well-intended people do, I promise myself that it will never get that bad again.
Clean fridges make me feel better...I promise you will feel better, too. Who cares if dinner is a little late that night. Make them stare into the fridge until they praise you for your efforts before you feed them. It's character building....
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Blogging Fears
Over the past several months my mind has been flooded with ideas for this blog. Things I'd like to write about. Topics I think would be fun to discuss - and so on, and so forth, and what have you (channeling my inner Sue Heck....never mind). The problem: inspiration strikes at inconvenient times. While standing in the check-out at WalMart I write an entire post in my head about standing in the line at WalMart. When I get home, my brain is fried after putting away 4,000 bags of groceries, and I remember nothing. So, to help myself with this problem I've been tucking away ideas on the memo pad of my phone for quite some time.
Here goes...another attempt at blogging. I love blogging, but in the past I let my insecurity get in the way of enjoying something I...well, enjoy.
I'm a big fan of being real, so for a moment I'm going to be real with you about my blogging insecurity:
a) 10 people thought the post was fun, 1 person didn't...my mind let's that 1 person win
b) I'm married to a Pastor, I should be more Pastor's wifely(I think it's a word), and maybe not talk about things
c) People won't get my humor, take me too seriously, and judge me
d) My topics aren't spiritual enough...refer to "b" where I think I need to be more Pastor's wifely like...
e) I don't have enough inspiration, and therefore should shut it down altogether
f) I've blogged about parenting, and my kids aren't perfect. I've blogged about healthy eating,
and gained all the weight back (see also: weight is an insecure area for me), and I've blogged
about loss/death, but I know my story is different than others.
So, these are a few of the thoughts I've struggled with on this blogging topic....there are a laundry list of other things I struggle with. Hang in there reader, you're about to be my therapy. I've got issues that need hung out to dry. So, from now on, I want to keep it real. Keep it funny. Keep it honest, and sometimes, just maybe, keep it painful.
Jump on in and read, or get off the ride and keep moving. I will work through it. Let's have fun (singing "Girls just wanna have fun" always helps...or, "Can't Touch This." The choice is yours)!
Here goes...another attempt at blogging. I love blogging, but in the past I let my insecurity get in the way of enjoying something I...well, enjoy.
I'm a big fan of being real, so for a moment I'm going to be real with you about my blogging insecurity:
a) 10 people thought the post was fun, 1 person didn't...my mind let's that 1 person win
b) I'm married to a Pastor, I should be more Pastor's wifely(I think it's a word), and maybe not talk about things
c) People won't get my humor, take me too seriously, and judge me
d) My topics aren't spiritual enough...refer to "b" where I think I need to be more Pastor's wifely like...
e) I don't have enough inspiration, and therefore should shut it down altogether
f) I've blogged about parenting, and my kids aren't perfect. I've blogged about healthy eating,
and gained all the weight back (see also: weight is an insecure area for me), and I've blogged
about loss/death, but I know my story is different than others.
So, these are a few of the thoughts I've struggled with on this blogging topic....there are a laundry list of other things I struggle with. Hang in there reader, you're about to be my therapy. I've got issues that need hung out to dry. So, from now on, I want to keep it real. Keep it funny. Keep it honest, and sometimes, just maybe, keep it painful.
Jump on in and read, or get off the ride and keep moving. I will work through it. Let's have fun (singing "Girls just wanna have fun" always helps...or, "Can't Touch This." The choice is yours)!
Friday, February 13, 2015
A Room for the Family - a.k.a. The Family Room :)
I admit it, I'm not doing well at consistent blogging. My plan is to post my way through our house renovations. I want to do that. Life is just....well, life! Keeping up with the demands of four children, a husband's schedule which never sees a "normal" week, and everything else, makes it difficult to scratch out extra time. At least for this moment.
I have been experiencing shoulder pain since the fall. I was referred to a physical therapist and have been undergoing treatment for an injury to my rotator cuff...due to all the painting we did over the summer/fall months. So, that has added one more thing to my weekly plate, along with weekend sporting events for two of the children.
This blog is my "hobby," of sorts, and I'll try to navigate better what role it can play during my week.
Without bogging you down with too much detail, I want to show you the before & after shots of our family room.
I didn't take as many before shots, as I now wish I had. The room was very dark with paneling, a dark stained built-in book case, and old turquoise carpeting. We saw so much potential though, in this 17x18 space.
I have been experiencing shoulder pain since the fall. I was referred to a physical therapist and have been undergoing treatment for an injury to my rotator cuff...due to all the painting we did over the summer/fall months. So, that has added one more thing to my weekly plate, along with weekend sporting events for two of the children.
This blog is my "hobby," of sorts, and I'll try to navigate better what role it can play during my week.
Without bogging you down with too much detail, I want to show you the before & after shots of our family room.
I didn't take as many before shots, as I now wish I had. The room was very dark with paneling, a dark stained built-in book case, and old turquoise carpeting. We saw so much potential though, in this 17x18 space.
The previous owner used the built-in as a desk space. I saw the potential to make it into an area for our TV, as well as books, video storage, etc.
This room was my project. Dave was busy working on the kitchen, and tackling more structural projects, so I took on this room.
The paneling had to be prepped before painting. At Sherwin Williams they recommended a product called Krud Kutter. It's a liquid that you wipe down the walls. It cleans the surface and removes the shine to prep it for paint. This was much easier than sanding the surface of the paneling. It saved me from cleaning up a dusty mess. It took me about a day to de-gloss the paneling &
the built-ins. Once that was done I was able to prime the whole thing. I must mention that I had help from friends with this stage, and it saved my sanity. With the built-in and the beams, there was so much detail to cut around.
The finished product - you'll notice that where the TV sits, the wood had a scalloped edge around it that just dated the appearance of the shelves. Dave cut those scallops off, and rounded it to look like the other shelves. I am so happy with the results. The paint color is Sherwin Williams - Lazy Gray.
On the built-in I used an interior oil based white paint. It was more time-consuming, as each coat takes 24 hours to dry. But, the result is a more durable finish that will be less likely to scratch. I still have handles to put on the cabinet doors. However, as I mentioned before, there are still projects that need some finishing touches.
We (I say "we," but I mean Dave and other guys), ripped out the old carpeting, and had new carpeting installed. You'll also notice that I left the beams in their original state, and I think the results nicely compliment the lighter colors that this room now holds.
The handles I chose for the drawers - I ordered these in a ten pack from Overstock.com. I had priced other options for buying handles individually, but I could not compete with the price at Overstock. I'm so happy with the quality of them, and other than some issues with the screws being a tad long, Dave said they were not difficult to install.
So, there you have it. I hope you enjoyed the step by step. :)
Thursday, January 29, 2015
So, About That Wallpaper
I decided to start sharing with you the upgrades we made to the house, by showing you the Master Bedroom first....why? I don't really know. No particular reason. Maybe, because for a few moments this morning there wasn't laundry piled on the bed being sorted, folded, and left until each child picks up their pile after school. I was able to take a few pictures of the room, without much fuss. Maybe, because I need to start somewhere, and it was as good a place as any to start.
The first few shots are the before pictures. This is what it looked like when we went through the home. The potential was great....the wallpaper was not.
The carpeting in the room was a beige berber. It wasn't in terrible condition, but in need of a deep cleaning. The original plan was to have the rug cleaned, strip the wallpaper, paint, and be done.
See the walk-in closet and master bath? We've never had a walk-in closet (well, that's not true, our first apartment was only 350 square feet, but it did have a walk-in closet which doubled as a pantry, clothes storage, kitchen storage, book storage, etc., etc.), and we've definitely never had our own master bath.
Oh, but the wallpaper was ugly....
Here is where the plans changed for the room...
Dave did a test on the paper to see how easily it might peel off. When he did, we realized that the paper came off, but so did the wall behind it. We had a crumbling mess. Upon further inspection from Dave, and my brother, we realized that we had a carpenter ant infestation in part of our wall. Hence the hole in the wall, you are now seeing in this picture. We hired an exterminator to take care of the ants, but we were left with a hole, damage to repair, and dead ants all over the place.
When the kids offer to help, we give them jobs like - vacuum up the dead ants all over the floor. Alayna did a great job....but I'm not sure she volunteered for any more jobs after that. :)
This is where I don't have any pictures....we were so busy "being in the moment" of house renovations, that I didn't pause much to take pictures of the process.
A good friend of mine volunteered a day of her time to help me strip the wallpaper. She had done this several times, and to this point, I had only ever removed wallpaper one other time.
We used a solution of white vinegar and warm water, and a scoring tool, like this one.
We scored sections of the wall, then used large sponges soaked in the water/vinegar solution, and ran it over the area we had scored. Then, using a putty knife we scraped the area we had soaked down. The wallpaper didn't always rip in large sections, so it was a lot of scoring, soaking, scraping, repeat... I need to mention that keeping the vinegar water hot/warm was key. As soon as it turned luke warm to cold, we did not have success. We just kept changing out our water solution, and it worked great!
When we finally removed the last piece of wallpaper, we used TSP Cleaner (mixed with water, using the directions on the box), and with a clean sponge, wiped the entire wall surface down. This removed any remaining glue residue.
Because of the damage from the ants, and other factors,
we chose to rip the old berber carpet out, and replace it. We're so happy that we did.
Dave repaired the hole in the wall, and I went to work painting the room. We were so thankful to have friends & family volunteer time and help us with some of our projects. From painting trim & doors, to ripping out carpeting, we couldn't have accomplished what we did in three weeks time, without the help we received from others.
I wanted all the doors and trim painted white, then we did the walls in
Sherwin Williams - Universal Khaki, satin finish.
The wall, now paper free! Oh, and the hole in the wall is gone, too. :)
A side note about our furniture....we bought most of our bedroom furniture almost 14 years ago at a great store in Albany, NY called Huck Finns Warehouse. We bought it unfinished, and Dave finished it. Almost fourteen years later, it's still in great shape, but I'm tired of the stained wood and I have plans to re-purpose it...so, when I do, I'll share that with you.
My little splurge...I wanted a "statement" chair, and found this on Overstock.com
I love it!
I had a model for this picture...she wanted to be on my bed, and I wanted to let her. :)
The new carpet...it makes me very happy.
We still have plans to renovate our master bath, and when we do, I'll post the process.
I hope you enjoyed the tour, and the tutorial on what we did in this room. We're happy with it, and I look forward to sharing more rooms with you.
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Back At It....With New Inspiration
I realize I have taken quite the hiatus from this blog. For good reason, and lack of inspiration, I decided to sign off for a while. We were neck deep into a very busy season in our lives. We were selling our former home, house hunting, and ultimately purchasing a new home during the spring/summer months.
We had known for some time that the sale of our home would happen, we just didn't know the exact time frame. From the time we purchased our last home, we knew there was a possibility that we wouldn't live there long. A local company was interested in purchasing our entire block from the start, and it all went through in June this past year.
I loved our former house. My dad had completely renovated it into a beautiful little three bedroom home, which we were able to purchase from him when he completed it. But, the looming thought of "will this be the year XYZ company wants to purchase from us," left us in a spot that we didn't want to make any changes to that home. We wanted to finish a patio in the back, and landscape our back yard, but why bother when we might sell any time.
We have no regrets in the former home, and we loved the memories we created there, as a family. But, this past spring the ball was rolling to sell, pack, & move. We spent several weeks with our Realtor going through home after home. We scoured Zillow for homes that might interest us...went to Open Houses....drove through neighborhoods, and on and on. It was a fun, and exhausting, process. We were seriously considering making an offer on another home when our Realtor called and said she had one that just came on the market, it would sell fast, and she thought it was exactly what we were looking for. We called my dad and asked him to join us at this home. With his vast knowledge of homes, carpentry, etc., we wanted him involved when we made a final decision. As soon as we saw the inside we were excited. We knew the potential was endless, but many updates were needed. It had great "bones," but needed to be brought into the 21st century.
So, in sharing all of that, I've decided that I want to use this blog to take you through the "before" and "after's" of our home renovation. We have a ways to go, so there will be plenty of things to keep me "inspired" for a while. We spent most of June, and early July, renovating as much as we could before we moved in. I painted by day and packed boxes by night. Dave took two weeks off and worked from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, on the new house, for those two weeks.
Dave & I love tackling DIY projects....most of the time. We have many man hours in this home, and we're still enjoying the process. There are many "almost" done projects, and many "yet to start" projects. Stick with me, and I'll share what we've done, how we went about it, and what we're going to do next.
Our "new" home
Friday, May 23, 2014
Celebrating During Busy Times
I mentioned in my last post that we're really busy right now. Well, nothing's changed, and we'll be busy for at least the next two months, if not longer. Right now it's all the little detail stuff that has to take place when you're getting ready to sell a home and purchase another one. Run to this place and drop off that paperwork, sign this and send it here, read through this e-mailed document and reply with a yes or no, go to the bank and make sure they print, stamp & sign what you need, now take it to XYZ place. Oh, and in the middle of it all have a giant yard sale and try to reduce your belongings as much as possible. Well, you get the idea. Things are busy, and that's life. Not complaining - in fact, we're excited!
This morning we paused for an hour and celebrated this special guys pre-school graduation. Joel turns 6 in less than two weeks, and Sadie turns 1 in less than a month. During the busyness we hope to pause a few times and celebrate these special occasions. Joel will begin Kindergarten in the fall, and this one extra year at home was exactly what he needed. He's ready. He's excited. And he's bored with me. :)
I haven't updated in some time regarding my weight loss, so I thought I'd take a minute to share and celebrate. For the past month or so I had plateaued at a 20lb. weight loss. Not too shabby, but the scale just wasn't budging past that mark. We had been so busy that my eating habits slipped a bit. I was still careful at home, but not as careful when we went out. But, I am happy to report that as of yesterday I am down 25lbs! I have tried to re-focus my priority to eat a low-carb, low-sugar diet (more whole foods, less pasta, bread and desserts). I have also added a natural supplement to help reduce cravings and increase energy. It is helping, and I feel like I'm back on the right track. I need to celebrate that, because I get easily discouraged on this path.
So, life is busy, but what else is new? Whether we were moving, or not, life would just be busy no matter what!
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Catching Up
I realize I've been very lax in my blogging lately, but for good reason. We are insanely busy. We're in the process of selling our home, buying a new one, and closing on both at just the right time. It's been a whirlwind of excitement, exhaustion, and extreme energy (like how I used only "e" words...clever, huh?). We are under contract for the new home, but it will need some updates in the kitchen, flooring updates in several rooms, and lots of painting, once we take ownership of it. We're excited...but have I mentioned that we're exhausted?
This weekend we are having a huge yard sale, along with several neighbor's, as I've been organizing a neighborhood block sale. This task alone has me very busy. It's a nice feeling to part with unnecessary items that find their way into your home, and suddenly begin occupying space in your attic. The kids are anxiously planning a lemonade/doughnut stand. I'm not sure how much profit will be made, but I have a feeling each child will be going to bed Saturday night with a belly ache.
I have some things on my mind that I hope to blog more about soon, but for tonight I just wanted to play catch up a bit - let you know I haven't forgotten about this blogging thing. Some things have had to be set aside for the time being (like cooking dinner) while we focus on other things. Life will eventually settle down again, and things like blogging and social media will resume their place of importance...in the meantime, if I forget to wish someone a Happy Birthday, or "like" someone's status, I'm sorry :)
This weekend we are having a huge yard sale, along with several neighbor's, as I've been organizing a neighborhood block sale. This task alone has me very busy. It's a nice feeling to part with unnecessary items that find their way into your home, and suddenly begin occupying space in your attic. The kids are anxiously planning a lemonade/doughnut stand. I'm not sure how much profit will be made, but I have a feeling each child will be going to bed Saturday night with a belly ache.
I have some things on my mind that I hope to blog more about soon, but for tonight I just wanted to play catch up a bit - let you know I haven't forgotten about this blogging thing. Some things have had to be set aside for the time being (like cooking dinner) while we focus on other things. Life will eventually settle down again, and things like blogging and social media will resume their place of importance...in the meantime, if I forget to wish someone a Happy Birthday, or "like" someone's status, I'm sorry :)
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Mom's Sewing Trunk
Today is day one of my clean out the attic project. When we moved in to our house four years ago we put everything we didn't know what to do with, in the attic. Guess what? We still don't know what to do with it, and it's still in the attic. It's an attic that keeps me awake at night. The space up there is big, and it's easy to get to....but that also makes it easy to put more "stuff" up there that we don't know what to do with. Anyway, you get the idea. Big attic. Too much stuff. Cleaning it out.
Shortly after we moved into this house I acquired many things that belonged to my mom, that I just didn't know what to do with. Or, I just wasn't able to part with it yet. My mom's sewing trunk was one of those items. It sat in my parent's bedroom for as long as I can remember. It contained mom's sewing boxes, material, patterns, and any item we needed mended. Well, here's the thing....my mom stopped sewing sometime in the mid-80's....save the occasional button, hem, or zipper repair. As I began cleaning out the trunk it became very clear that my mom also had not cleaned out this trunk since the mid-80's....perhaps even the 70's. It made me laugh to go through this stuff. As a kid/teen I used to joke that if we put anything in the trunk that needed repaired, we might as well kiss it good-bye forever, since she wasn't quick to get things fixed. I inherited that trait. My poor kids.
Here is a sample of some of the material I came across while cleaning out the trunk. The gold, rust and green upholstery is perty, huh? It was from an old rocking chair that I have since recovered, to bring it up to date. A box of sewing patterns from the 70's and 80's. Mom's sewing boxes. A jar of buttons, and a "congratulations on the birth of your new son" card that was lying at the bottom of the trunk. The envelope says, "To Little Dougie." I'll have to pass that on to "Little Dougie," who's now a 33 year old man. Oh mom....I spent more time chuckling as I went through this trunk today, rather than having any heartache. Yes, I miss her, but going through the things she saved, made me laugh. I wonder if she even realized how many brand new zippers, and packages of elastic, were in this trunk?
Shortly after we moved into this house I acquired many things that belonged to my mom, that I just didn't know what to do with. Or, I just wasn't able to part with it yet. My mom's sewing trunk was one of those items. It sat in my parent's bedroom for as long as I can remember. It contained mom's sewing boxes, material, patterns, and any item we needed mended. Well, here's the thing....my mom stopped sewing sometime in the mid-80's....save the occasional button, hem, or zipper repair. As I began cleaning out the trunk it became very clear that my mom also had not cleaned out this trunk since the mid-80's....perhaps even the 70's. It made me laugh to go through this stuff. As a kid/teen I used to joke that if we put anything in the trunk that needed repaired, we might as well kiss it good-bye forever, since she wasn't quick to get things fixed. I inherited that trait. My poor kids.
Here is a sample of some of the material I came across while cleaning out the trunk. The gold, rust and green upholstery is perty, huh? It was from an old rocking chair that I have since recovered, to bring it up to date. A box of sewing patterns from the 70's and 80's. Mom's sewing boxes. A jar of buttons, and a "congratulations on the birth of your new son" card that was lying at the bottom of the trunk. The envelope says, "To Little Dougie." I'll have to pass that on to "Little Dougie," who's now a 33 year old man. Oh mom....I spent more time chuckling as I went through this trunk today, rather than having any heartache. Yes, I miss her, but going through the things she saved, made me laugh. I wonder if she even realized how many brand new zippers, and packages of elastic, were in this trunk?
I've decided to make this trunk a "keepsake" trunk. I will keep her sewing boxes in here, along with some of the material that's still usable. But, I have added in the baby clothes of mine that she hung on to, as well as the baby clothes of my kids, that I am hanging on to. Someday my kids might go through it and laugh at the things I thought to save....or the things that I forgot I even had.
Thanks for the laugh today, Mom!
Monday, March 17, 2014
Wheat Update
I have a few ideas/thoughts I am considering talking about at some point this week, but I'm reminding myself to live by the mantra of "think before you speak," so those thoughts might end up being non-post worthy after all. We'll see.... I've peaked your interest, haven't I? :)
But, first I decided that it was time for another reduced-wheat update. I was asked by several people over the weekend if we are still eating wheat free. Yes, and no. As I stated before, we've not completely eliminated all wheat from our diet. Doing so would cause great distress on our bodies if, & when, we decided to reintroduce it. And by "distress" I'm pretty sure I don't need to expand on what the means. But, the answer is mostly, yes. We are still working hard at keeping wheat (heavy carbs) out of our diet. I, for one, feel so much better, and I notice an increase in energy in our kids. You don't even realize that you're bloated, until you are no longer bloated. Make sense? On the occasion that I do have a heavy wheat-filled meal, I usually end up feeling lousy and very uncomfortable (details spared). Yesterday was a full-on, eat very unhealthy, day (calories don't count on Birthday's)...but, the difference is that I don't want to eat that way all the time. I want to make good choices the majority of the time, so I don't have to feel terrible when I indulge on the rare occasion.
We are a little over six weeks into our healthy eating lifestyle, and I am 14.5 lbs. lighter. I know it's making a difference. I do weigh myself daily as I want to know what foods affect me the most, and keep an eye on those weeks where I have plateaued. My clothes fit better, and I'm back in jeans that I couldn't wear post-Sadie. I have a ways to go, but this is the right direction. I've started tracking my food on My Fitness Pal, as a way to watch calories, carbs, sugar, sodium, etc. On the days that the weather is above 40 I head out for a long walk with the kiddos. I'd walk alone in temps below 40, but, well....I'm NEVER alone. :)
Here is a picture from Valentine's day, and a picture from last week. I can see a small difference already, and that makes me happy.
But, first I decided that it was time for another reduced-wheat update. I was asked by several people over the weekend if we are still eating wheat free. Yes, and no. As I stated before, we've not completely eliminated all wheat from our diet. Doing so would cause great distress on our bodies if, & when, we decided to reintroduce it. And by "distress" I'm pretty sure I don't need to expand on what the means. But, the answer is mostly, yes. We are still working hard at keeping wheat (heavy carbs) out of our diet. I, for one, feel so much better, and I notice an increase in energy in our kids. You don't even realize that you're bloated, until you are no longer bloated. Make sense? On the occasion that I do have a heavy wheat-filled meal, I usually end up feeling lousy and very uncomfortable (details spared). Yesterday was a full-on, eat very unhealthy, day (calories don't count on Birthday's)...but, the difference is that I don't want to eat that way all the time. I want to make good choices the majority of the time, so I don't have to feel terrible when I indulge on the rare occasion.
We are a little over six weeks into our healthy eating lifestyle, and I am 14.5 lbs. lighter. I know it's making a difference. I do weigh myself daily as I want to know what foods affect me the most, and keep an eye on those weeks where I have plateaued. My clothes fit better, and I'm back in jeans that I couldn't wear post-Sadie. I have a ways to go, but this is the right direction. I've started tracking my food on My Fitness Pal, as a way to watch calories, carbs, sugar, sodium, etc. On the days that the weather is above 40 I head out for a long walk with the kiddos. I'd walk alone in temps below 40, but, well....I'm NEVER alone. :)
Here is a picture from Valentine's day, and a picture from last week. I can see a small difference already, and that makes me happy.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Grieving Through March
For the past several years, since my mom's death, I've realized something about myself - March through May are really hard months for me. It's actually hard to talk about it. Why? Because I am really good at publicly keeping my emotions tucked away. I am hyper aware of what makes people uncomfortable, and talking about ones feelings too deeply tends to make people uncomfortable. But, I've decided to try to put into words how I feel during these months.
There is the obvious joy over seeing Spring arrive after a long, cold, snowy winter. And this winter definitely receives the "I should live in the south" award! But, in the midst of the weather change, I wrestle with my mom's death more this time of year, than any other time.
You see, March is full of birthday's for my family, but the ones that are hardest for me are my own, my mom's, and my daughter's. Mine is the 16th, Mom's was the 24th, and Julie's is on the 25th. I have come to recognize that I start feeling the emotions of this month, well before my birthday even arrives...like right now, because I'm balling as I type this. Why my birthday? I assume it's because I spend the day thinking about the one who brought me into this world. I think about how I miss her phone calls and birthday wishes, and it's not there anymore. Mom didn't go overboard with b'day celebrations, but she was mom, and not having her here to go out for lunch with, or hear from, is really hard.
The day of mom's birthday, the 24th, is hard, too. It's a day to think about her, and if the weather is nice enough I try to get over to the cemetery on this day, just to spend some time.
Julie's birthday is the day after mom's. We lived in New York for many years, and mom & dad always made a point to come visit right around each of our kids birthday's. I just miss that.
April is Easter, and there's no particular reason for this being difficult, it just happens to fall between the March birthday month, and Mother's Day in May. So, it's caught during a time I'm struggling a little more. We get together with family on Easter, but I often miss mom's presence at those get-together's.
Mother's Day is obviously hard. I have spent the last few year's trying to focus the day on my kids, and their desire to shower me with homemade gifts and poems. But, I usually end up a sobbing mess and trying to pull it together so we can go to church.
I've been trying to articulate my emotions this week. Life is busy. My patience are too thin sometimes. Decisions about kids, and money, and well...life, can just be hard at times. But, God is good, and normally most of these things don't get to me too much. However, as I was thinking about things, and asking God to help me, it occurred to me, "Oh, yea, it's March, and I am missing mom." It's not that recognizing it takes it away, it just helps me know where the struggle is coming from, and I can talk to the Lord a little more about it.
So, I wrestled with whether to post this, but I've decided this - everyone has something in their life that is hard. You may have lost someone very close to you, or you may be close to losing someone. Know this, it is not always going to be an obvious moment that will cause you to struggle with the loss. For me, the anniversary of mom's passing (June 12, 2009) is not as hard as March and Mother's Day. Your moments may come & go. You might notice that at Christmas you get through without a lot of struggle, but then you're in the grocery store and something reminds you of them, and you just want to go home and be alone.
March is that way for me. Christmas was fine, but birthday's are hard. I love the sign of new life spring brings, but the ache of missing my mom this time of year can often overshadow the excitement of a new season. It's okay. It's part of grief. I still get out of bed each day. I can still take care of my family, but my heart is a little heavier this time of year. Now that I've learned to recognize this better, I am able to communicate it more to my husband, and to the Lord. That helps....
There is the obvious joy over seeing Spring arrive after a long, cold, snowy winter. And this winter definitely receives the "I should live in the south" award! But, in the midst of the weather change, I wrestle with my mom's death more this time of year, than any other time.
You see, March is full of birthday's for my family, but the ones that are hardest for me are my own, my mom's, and my daughter's. Mine is the 16th, Mom's was the 24th, and Julie's is on the 25th. I have come to recognize that I start feeling the emotions of this month, well before my birthday even arrives...like right now, because I'm balling as I type this. Why my birthday? I assume it's because I spend the day thinking about the one who brought me into this world. I think about how I miss her phone calls and birthday wishes, and it's not there anymore. Mom didn't go overboard with b'day celebrations, but she was mom, and not having her here to go out for lunch with, or hear from, is really hard.
The day of mom's birthday, the 24th, is hard, too. It's a day to think about her, and if the weather is nice enough I try to get over to the cemetery on this day, just to spend some time.
Julie's birthday is the day after mom's. We lived in New York for many years, and mom & dad always made a point to come visit right around each of our kids birthday's. I just miss that.
April is Easter, and there's no particular reason for this being difficult, it just happens to fall between the March birthday month, and Mother's Day in May. So, it's caught during a time I'm struggling a little more. We get together with family on Easter, but I often miss mom's presence at those get-together's.
Mother's Day is obviously hard. I have spent the last few year's trying to focus the day on my kids, and their desire to shower me with homemade gifts and poems. But, I usually end up a sobbing mess and trying to pull it together so we can go to church.
I've been trying to articulate my emotions this week. Life is busy. My patience are too thin sometimes. Decisions about kids, and money, and well...life, can just be hard at times. But, God is good, and normally most of these things don't get to me too much. However, as I was thinking about things, and asking God to help me, it occurred to me, "Oh, yea, it's March, and I am missing mom." It's not that recognizing it takes it away, it just helps me know where the struggle is coming from, and I can talk to the Lord a little more about it.
So, I wrestled with whether to post this, but I've decided this - everyone has something in their life that is hard. You may have lost someone very close to you, or you may be close to losing someone. Know this, it is not always going to be an obvious moment that will cause you to struggle with the loss. For me, the anniversary of mom's passing (June 12, 2009) is not as hard as March and Mother's Day. Your moments may come & go. You might notice that at Christmas you get through without a lot of struggle, but then you're in the grocery store and something reminds you of them, and you just want to go home and be alone.
March is that way for me. Christmas was fine, but birthday's are hard. I love the sign of new life spring brings, but the ache of missing my mom this time of year can often overshadow the excitement of a new season. It's okay. It's part of grief. I still get out of bed each day. I can still take care of my family, but my heart is a little heavier this time of year. Now that I've learned to recognize this better, I am able to communicate it more to my husband, and to the Lord. That helps....
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Yep, I'm Giving You Homework
I realize this post might get some eye rolls, or give the idea of an extremist mindset. Just know that these are my thoughts/convictions, based on my own findings. The nature of my blog is to talk about issues that interest me, share my thoughts with you, and if some discussion comes from it - great! If you disagree, no worries...I can only tell you things from my vantage point.
I recently wrote about my stand on the pro-life issue, and was encouraged by the support I received on that post. I'd like to take it a step farther, and bring some attention to another area I feel strongly about. Birth control....okay, okay, before you start thinking that I want to be the next 19 Kids & Counting, stop right there. That is not what I'm getting at.
I recently read another blogger's post on this subject, and it challenged me to once again think about this topic. I am not a doctor, but as a wife and mom, I want to ask you to do your research before taking any chemical form of birth control; The pill, IUD's, patch, etc. If you have a pro-life conviction, and believe life begins at conception, then you need to be educated on the fact that chemical birth control can have an abortifacient effect.
I have used different chemical birth control methods through the years, without ever looking into what it could do. After each baby, the first thing my care provider would ask is, "what type of birth control do you want?" It is just assumed that you want it, and I assumed I was to take it. But, research and conviction has changed my thinking.
I will not go into detail telling you how to go about birth control in a different way, just urging you to ask questions about what you're taking.
Here are a couple websites I found helpful:
Does the pill cause abortion?
The Truth About Contraceptives
Okay, here's my conclusion - It is always best to be educated about what we put into our bodies, and just because you may not use chemical birth control, doesn't mean you can't find a method that will work for you & your spouse. Research and pray about what is best for your situation. Not everyone is going to be a Duggar.
*Once again, although you might think I'm a medical professional (why are you laughing?), I'm not. It is always good to talk to your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have, but don't underestimate the power of your own instinct/conviction. God gave you that!
I recently wrote about my stand on the pro-life issue, and was encouraged by the support I received on that post. I'd like to take it a step farther, and bring some attention to another area I feel strongly about. Birth control....okay, okay, before you start thinking that I want to be the next 19 Kids & Counting, stop right there. That is not what I'm getting at.
I recently read another blogger's post on this subject, and it challenged me to once again think about this topic. I am not a doctor, but as a wife and mom, I want to ask you to do your research before taking any chemical form of birth control; The pill, IUD's, patch, etc. If you have a pro-life conviction, and believe life begins at conception, then you need to be educated on the fact that chemical birth control can have an abortifacient effect.
I have used different chemical birth control methods through the years, without ever looking into what it could do. After each baby, the first thing my care provider would ask is, "what type of birth control do you want?" It is just assumed that you want it, and I assumed I was to take it. But, research and conviction has changed my thinking.
I will not go into detail telling you how to go about birth control in a different way, just urging you to ask questions about what you're taking.
Here are a couple websites I found helpful:
Does the pill cause abortion?
The Truth About Contraceptives
Okay, here's my conclusion - It is always best to be educated about what we put into our bodies, and just because you may not use chemical birth control, doesn't mean you can't find a method that will work for you & your spouse. Research and pray about what is best for your situation. Not everyone is going to be a Duggar.
*Once again, although you might think I'm a medical professional (why are you laughing?), I'm not. It is always good to talk to your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have, but don't underestimate the power of your own instinct/conviction. God gave you that!
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Wheat Update
We are three weeks into our healthier eating lifestyle. We've eliminated a great deal of unnecessary wheat from our diet, as well as high fructose corn syrup and added sugars. Basically, what this looks like for us is that I'm not preparing meals that need to be thickened with flour, or have cream soup as the main ingredient (bye-bye almost every casserole recipe out there). I'm grocery shopping more often because of the large quantity of fresh fruits and veggies we're eating. We ate them before, but we've at least doubled our intake. I am experimenting with recipes that call for almond flour & coconut flour, and I've found a crustless pizza recipe that we've enjoyed for a treat. Pinterest has been a great resource for recipes!
We haven't completely eliminated wheat from our life, we just don't have it at home anymore. When the kids have a party at school, they participate. When we get together with friends, we eat what food is provided. We feel this is a lifestyle we can live with, and so far none of us are feeling deprived. I will add that Joel is still enjoying his pb&j sandwich at lunch. The kid would be crushed for life if I removed that one staple from his day. Except now he eats half a sandwich instead of a whole, with lots of fresh foods on the side. It's a good compromise.
Dave & I have noticed a difference in the kids. The difference wasn't obvious until Valentine's Day, after they had consumed a lot of junk food at their school parties. That night at home we realized how whiny and out of sorts they were, and it was something we hadn't seen in them for a little while. I should also mention that Dave & I both felt sick after eating pasta and bread on Valentine's Day. We were blown away by the obvious difference in how we were feeling.
Dave has lost a total of 9lbs., and I'm down 8lbs. I'm still nursing Sadie, so I keep that in mind while I'm choosing what to eat, and I recognize that my weight loss may be a little slower for now. Overall it's going well. I wanted to post an update because, as I said before, I want to keep accountable in some way.
We haven't completely eliminated wheat from our life, we just don't have it at home anymore. When the kids have a party at school, they participate. When we get together with friends, we eat what food is provided. We feel this is a lifestyle we can live with, and so far none of us are feeling deprived. I will add that Joel is still enjoying his pb&j sandwich at lunch. The kid would be crushed for life if I removed that one staple from his day. Except now he eats half a sandwich instead of a whole, with lots of fresh foods on the side. It's a good compromise.
Dave & I have noticed a difference in the kids. The difference wasn't obvious until Valentine's Day, after they had consumed a lot of junk food at their school parties. That night at home we realized how whiny and out of sorts they were, and it was something we hadn't seen in them for a little while. I should also mention that Dave & I both felt sick after eating pasta and bread on Valentine's Day. We were blown away by the obvious difference in how we were feeling.
Dave has lost a total of 9lbs., and I'm down 8lbs. I'm still nursing Sadie, so I keep that in mind while I'm choosing what to eat, and I recognize that my weight loss may be a little slower for now. Overall it's going well. I wanted to post an update because, as I said before, I want to keep accountable in some way.
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Faith. Family. Valentine's Day.
Valentine's Day is kind of a big deal around here. It's no longer a day for Dave and me to hire a sitter and plan a quiet romantic dinner alone. Nope, it's a day of fun for the whole family, and we don't want it any other way.
Three years ago we decided to ditch the dinner date idea and make it a fun family night. Dave has always been great about making Valentine's day special. For our first married Valentine's day he prepared dinner, and made chocolate covered strawberries, and had it all set up as a surprise when I arrived home from work. From that point on, he's always been great about making Valentine's day memorable (insert story of the overnight at a favorite B&B, where we were both so sick we spent the whole time sleeping and drinking NyQuil...we probably should have cancelled our plans, but we were young and determined to go).
Several years of marriage, and four kids later, we've decided it's a lot more fun to make this day a family day. Three years ago Dave started the tradition of a theme, and take-out spaghetti & meatballs from Valerio's. Our first year's theme was Italy, and the kids were only allowed to call Dave "Luigi." Last year was the same take-out meal, with a Hawaiian theme (music, leis, and grass skirts included). The tradition that has lasted through the years is the one where Dave makes his homemade chocolate covered strawberries. Now the kids make them with him. They love it!
So, I've included some pictures from last night's Valentine's Day dinner....can you guess this year's theme?
Welcome to our Duck Dynasty Valentine's Day....yes, that is a teddy bear with antlers. Doesn't everyone have that for a centerpiece on their table?
Dave assigned a DD character to each kid, complete with costumes and beards made by Dave.
They're holding up a picture of their character.
"Hey, Jack!"
Willie (Dave), holding his daughter, Sadie (for the record, our Sadie was not named after Sadie Robertson), Willie's crazy Uncle Si, Brother Jase, & Phil
(Notice the family picture on the wall...)
"Miss Kay," with the gang.
So, there you have it. A redneck Duck Dynasty Valentine's Day. We listened to blue grass music while we ate (or I should say, for as long as Miss Kay could stand listening to it), but "Sharp Dressed Man" (song below) was playing when the kids came down for dinner. After all, it is the opening song for the show. :)
I hope you all had a great Valentine's Day....my husband shows his love to me all year long, and someday those quiet dinners will be easier to come by, and we'll miss the noise and fun of these kiddos. I love that Dave pulls out his creative side and makes these memories for our kids.
Monday, February 10, 2014
Wheat Schmeat...
I've been on a mission to work on better health for myself, and my family. Being a mom is hard. Being the grocery shopper is hard. Being the family chef is hard. I feel so responsible for how well we eat, or don't eat. We're not as healthy as we could be, and this is sobering. So, I intensified my research to try and decide what would be best. In my search I came across the book "Wheat Belly." It's a very eye opening book, and a little overwhelming (especially for the extreme carb lover). But, I've discovered the damage wheat is doing to our bodies, our mental focus, and our overall health.
So, with the support of my husband and my kids, we're working hard at making some life changes. We already enjoyed fruits and veggies, but we have increased our intake of these foods. We have decreased (greatly) our consumption of wheat. I am not cooking meals that include pasta, bread crumbs or flour, or other starches. We are not eating Gluten-Free products. I am experimenting with almond flour, and coconut flour. We've enjoyed some cookies and biscuits made from these things, but we've discovered that the wheat free bread recipe I tried was just not worth my time.
We are very much in a trial & error stage right now....and may be for a long time. We're learning, but my goal is for overall health, not just weight loss. But, speaking of weight loss, after only one week I've already lost 5lbs.
My hope is that by talking about this, it will help me stay accountable and focused. Hopefully I can keep posting about our progress.
So, with the support of my husband and my kids, we're working hard at making some life changes. We already enjoyed fruits and veggies, but we have increased our intake of these foods. We have decreased (greatly) our consumption of wheat. I am not cooking meals that include pasta, bread crumbs or flour, or other starches. We are not eating Gluten-Free products. I am experimenting with almond flour, and coconut flour. We've enjoyed some cookies and biscuits made from these things, but we've discovered that the wheat free bread recipe I tried was just not worth my time.
We are very much in a trial & error stage right now....and may be for a long time. We're learning, but my goal is for overall health, not just weight loss. But, speaking of weight loss, after only one week I've already lost 5lbs.
My hope is that by talking about this, it will help me stay accountable and focused. Hopefully I can keep posting about our progress.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Throwback...
Today my sister-in-law forwarded me an e-mail that my mom sent her on June 18, 2003. Mom was e-mailing Andrea this picture of Julie that I had sent her. I thought it would be fun to share with you, since it is Throwback Thursday, after all.
Julie would have been almost three months here. Check out all that crazy hair. Our old kitty, Simon, laying next to her.
We are on a bit of journey in our household, and I intend to post more about that soon. I realize I'm not posting much, but believe me, I'll get back to it.
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