Curious Georgi

Thankful Thursday #83

2012-03-01T15:41:00.001-05:00

this lovely iPhone photo is what happens when your husband borrows your awesome camera for work all month

#161-180

craft table "open" all week
butterflies [as we watch all their stages unfold while studying them this week it's pretty amazing to see]
easter decorations on my mantel
a new month
warm weather [makes me excited for the summer]
little boys in shorts
little boys with haircuts [finally! after 4 months]
yogli mogli
kids who love sprinkles
$50 well spent at our churches consignment sale on clothes for my oldest and myself [maternity]
a clean backporch
2010 january scrapbooked [after a more than 2 year hiatus]
a 9 week old baby in my belly
a baby in someone else's belly who just found out
my 36 lb "baby" who turns 2 this month
being hungry again after a week of not [thank you very much stomach virus]
seeing Moses sleep in a toddler bed [after he managed to successfully break two pack n plays recently]
that I got married before "say yes to the dress" and pinterest [really uncomplicated the pressure!]
an older brother who put his baby brother down for a nap this week for me
my husbands creative genius mind that i don't fully understand or appreciate, it's mysterious nevertheless

What are you thankful for this week?

Link up below.

I'm making my way through my 1000 gifts this year.

I Blog In My Mind

2012-02-28T08:24:00.001-05:00

I blog in my mind...is it just me? I've gone from blogging almost daily to once a week. Part of me is wondering how I'm suppose to become the next great blogger with a track record like this [joke]---or---I just really miss writing about what I think/is happening to me.

To break the silence since Thursday---[annoying to some, or one] Papyrus font is making a come back on the blog.

Would you like a run down of my last month?

Of course you don't, here goes

[insert list long list of complainants]

....included, but not limited to pregnancy nausea, family stomach virus, and several reasons to be on amoxicillin...

[realizes I have too much to be thankful, aborts this list]

I'm so thankful to be 9 weeks pregnant, although it's been nothing of the "death like symptoms" I've previously experienced in pregnancies, any all day nausea while chasing 3 little ones is challenging. I'm hopeful I'm around the corner---for several reasons---including our current family diet.

[included but not limited to]

-me cooking rarely, us eating out a lot

-child recognizable brand boxes of breakfast & snack foods that my children can open and feed themselves that I've kept them from eating their whole life

-personally having an aversion to most meat, veggies, and fruit [unless you include fruit cups in syrup] ieatcarbsonly.com

-me ordering food and then just looking at it

In my case, during the first trimester, I have to eat anything to try to get calories in. It's not always my mental preference for health, but I'm hopeful by the time my midwife starts her visits with me next month I can report I'm eating a steady diet of only spinach.

Call me Popeye.

Or still be my friend, crunchy mommies.

Don't look in my pantry, re-fridge, or car.

Please, don't judge.

Pretend with me.

Yell at me if I'm eating like this after 12 weeks.

Did I mention I have an aversion to chocolate too?

Y'all know this is serious.

Thankful Thursday #82

2012-02-23T21:22:00.000-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

#141-160

not getting the stomach bug even though all my boys and husband did over the weekend
first world problems. we just don't know how good we have it.
air conditioning when they were feverish
towels and a washer even if i'm not even close to being caught up
a babysitter who dropped off groceries when we couldn't go
that "the black plague" only lasts 24 hours
that it tried to come on me, and Jesus spared me supernaturally
being able to make a dr. appointment immediately
that the Dr. caught that two of my kids had bad ear infections [oh and pink eye!]
amoxicillin [i don't like drugs, be ever so often i'm so grateful they are easily available]
for 70 degree weather for my boys to get fresh air after days of being on lock down
the grace to care for the sick, even while pregnancy nausea myself
tv, even if hours endless of it while the kiddos were bedridden
gatorade and crackers
trashcans and toilets [am i going too far? well i was seriously thankful for them]
oh and Lysol
sunshine coming in all our windows
ice chips
hearing the wind whistle outside when i sleep
my husband cleaning up the aftermath of our sick war zone
a new week ahead

What are you thankful for? I'm making my way thru my 1000 gifts this year. Link up below.

Valentines Getaway in Savannah

2012-02-17T14:27:00.000-05:00

Valentines dinner at Chops

adding to my xmas list, our hotel room at Avia, the tub i didn't have time to bathe in, and me using my new camera bag

lunch at The Olde Pink House

the sign was too funny

tree hugger

Some were taken on my iPhone [obvious] and some were taken on my "real" camera. Either way. There was just too much beauty in Savannah to photograph in just two days. Loved it. It was a total surprise and I couldn't have been more spoiled or happy! 29 hours with just...him!

Thankful Thursday #81

2012-02-16T12:10:00.001-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

#121-140

valentines [my favorite holiday]
red roses
a box of chocolate
a card
a hot pink dress
a friend who watched my kids for two hours until my sitter got off school
a surprise early dinner at Chops
surprise getaway to Savannah, GA for the evening & day
Avia [hotel]
a babysitter my kids love [and i trust]
6 hours round trip to talk to my husband [without kids screaming in the car]
second dinner upon arriving in savannah [baby was hungry]
sleeping till 10
french toast for breakfast [that i didn't have to make]
eating lunch at The Olde Pink House
bbq sliders with pickles and sweet potato fries
taking pictures all day with charles
banana split blizzard on the way home
not feeling super sick while we were away
seeing my kids faces when we walked in the house

Thankful? Link up below.

Thankful Thursday #80

2012-02-09T11:20:00.002-05:00

#101-#120

that i'm not deathly ill with this pregnancy, just "normal" nausea
clean boys in towels on my couch
mentor lunch
a "meet the baby" shower for Malachi
a friend who decorates my house for valentines
having people over for the Superbowl
a almost two year old who started asking "why" about everything
three new pieces of furniture built from IKEA in my school room
this 28 minute discussion online about our childhood and the effects on our marriage. amazing!
a babysitter who helps me with laundry, dishes, organizing, and specializes in sanity
english muffins with butter and honey
something i like to drink this first trimester---vitamin water
pink gerber daises
sitting in the car with my girlfriends talking for almost 3 hours after bible study
this song when i'm sad
reading about the babies development [fourth time around, never gets old]
that i don't always smell everything as strongly as i do right now
how excited my boys were when their new wii game came in the mail
fruit cups [a current favorite of mine right now]
hearing Solomon tell Nation that he loves him

What are you thankful for this week?

Link up below.

Bragging On Your Kids

2012-02-07T17:01:00.000-05:00

I looked in my rear view mirror today at a boy on the back row. Only 5. I remembered all the times I've been frustrated with him. So frustrated. Years ago even. What was he...4? 3? 2? He's still a child. He was an even small child. I forget. I forgot. They aren't grown adults, they are children. Learning. I looked at him in the mirror today and tried to remind myself to remember. Remember he's a child. A child who is going to be loud, break things, fight with his siblings...none without excuse or consequence, but now, hopefully with a little more foresight---on my part. It's going to happen. He's 5.

I talk a lot about the things he does. Some good. Mostly bad. Maybe some funny. You don't want to be "that" parent who brags. But do I really wanna be "that" parent who only shares the horrid incidents of the day? I think I need to remember, and talk about, more---the moments like above. When a boy. Just 5. Builds. Creates. Reads directions [like even his mother almost 6 times his age can't].

Don't worry, I'll still share our struggles. And by "ours" I mean a first born mom, and a first born son. But I hope I remember to write, photograph, and share more of the amazingness of him. To gossip to my girlfriends about the way he teaches his little crying brother to make a soccer goal when he was benched in his own defeat. The way he brings his newly pregnant mother drinks and snacks "for the baby". The way he talks about The Lord...at only 5.

Sometimes I think we talk bad about our kids to avoid being "that" parent who brags too much, but maybe at the cost of being "that" parent who is like "that" wife, who only talks negative about her husband. We laugh at her stories. But we also soon recognize the fall of their marriage. A wife who builds her husband up [even if he's fallen] is a good thing, we know. But what of a mom who builds up in speech her [also fallen] son? A wise habit we should all get in the habit of.

Nation--- you amaze me.

Thankful Thursday #79

2012-02-02T12:04:00.000-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

#81 brothers who snuggle close
#82 anything "i" [iPod, iPhone, iPad, iMac]
#83 my husbands long hours---with an end in sight
#84 for new bible study with old friends
#85 a compliment from my baby sitter
#86 random warm weather for my boys to play in
#87 3 healthy boys
#88 friends who stand outside coffee houses that close to talk even later
#89 29 hours away at a retreat with my 14 homeschool mom friends
#90 staying up late [while i can still handle it]
#91 "long" drives in the car
#92 the way my youngest snuggles his pillow pet
#93 a break thru for a relative
#94 an article that encouraged me
#95 that my husband jumped out of a plane---and landed safely
#96 a basement to hide all my junk in
#97 boys with long shaggy hair
#98 my children's little sweet friends
#99 watching my 3 year old beat my husband at wii [over and over and over]
#100 getting to 100 things to be thankful for this year

What are you thankful for this week? Link up below.

Making my way through my first 1000 gift list on Thursdays this year---

Something We Eat With Breakfast

2012-01-31T17:48:00.002-05:00

It takes about 2 minutes and I'd much rather read this than a horoscope. It feels like a little letter from Jesus every morning. Plainly written, but hidden inside is all His Word. I keep it in the kitchen and try to remember to eat it with my breakfast. Some days I catch up...

This was one of those grocery store impulse buys. Either way, I'm a sucker for 365 anything. I have three boys so naturally this is fitting. It's short and sweet, and even sweeter to hear them pray the prayer with me! I like that it focuses on character.

Anything fun y'all read in the morning?

Thankful Thursday #78

2012-01-26T10:46:00.001-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

#61 Our announcement about our newest addition

#62 Photo "outtakes" of the boys [see above: Certified Hunk IS Superman...pregnant]

#63 God's angels & his protection

#64 Boys in matching pjs

#65 The hundreds of people excited about Georgi #4

#66 Charles beginning to fulfill a life long dream this week at work

#67 Chick-fil-a breakfast wraps

#68 Borrowing card tables for the soon-to-be-improved-homeschool room

#69 Grocery shopping with Charles

#70 God's wisdom for child training

#71 Decaf Chai Latte's [made only at home]

#72 All the money I'll be saving at Starbucks since now being pregnancy caffeine free

#73 All the herbs and supplements available for newly pregnant mommies

#74 Homeschool encouragement night when a lovely mother shared so humbly

#75 A great turn out at my homebirth meeting

#76 Getting away this weekend for almost a full 24 hours for a homeschool retreat

#77 A forth little boy that tagged a long with us for two days this week

#78 A messy house on a rainy day

#79 Brownies and girlfriends

#80 The days passing getting closer to my favorite hoilday [Feb 14...pink!]

Making my way through my first 1000 gift list on Thursdays this year---

What are you thankful for this week?

Link up below.

Why My Blogging Has Slowed Down...

2012-01-24T20:31:00.002-05:00

...mainly because I sleep now.

Honestly, though. I have been trying to keep my New Year's Resolutions, one being, 8 hours of sleep. And with the new---

"Bun in the oven" [don't worry, my husband didn't get it either when I broke the news to him.]

Me: Come down here and look at the oven, something is wrong
Him: What? There's a bun in the oven.
Me: Uh Huh...........
Him: What's wrong with it? It's just a bun in the oven.
Me: Think about what you're saying
Him: [Finally got it]

So, if resolutions didn't motivate me to sleep, a poppy seed size child in my uterus has.

I've just been really focusing on trying to cook more, sleep more, and spend time with my family. Charles started a new part to his business at the turn of this year and it's going to be a busy month with 70+ hours and 6 day work weeks. Even if from home, I'm kinda single parenting it. It's just a small season, and sacrifice, not that it's easy, but I believe his desire to do this will pan out.

Some days have been easy.
Some days I've cried.
Some days I've wondered if homeschooling Nation has brought us closer or farther.
Some days I see that all the work to be done is...also in me...not just in my oldest only.
Some days my husband has gotten of work an hour early.
Some days he's gotten off work 6 hours later.
Some days the kids have almost died being boys.

It's life. I'm so thankful though for my God, my husband, my family and my church friends. All of them have brought [as corny as it sounds] sunshine into my life during this busy and transitional start to the year.

[Currently my 1 year old is chasing my 3 year old with a cheese grader around the house---should I stop blogging? Is this terribly unsafe?]

So I might write, I might not, I hope so. But at the end of the day if I've done what God told me to and I don't have time to share---it's a small sacrifice to be obedient to what He's called me to do with the precious few hours I have to fit it all in everyday.

Tonight, I feel that all is well with the world. Even if my kids are chasing each other around with kitchen supplies. It could be worse, I could be working out instead of blogging.

What transitions has your new year brought you?

1...2...3...4

2012-01-21T17:58:00.002-05:00

Thankful Thursday #77

2012-01-19T11:04:00.002-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

#41 jelly smiles and shoulder shrugs

#42 visit from my dad & step mom

#43 a new empty room in our house that i'll soon turn into a homeschool room

#44 free dinner at stk

#45 the first boy to wake me up for last three years

#46 exhausted, but a clean house to show for it

#47 refreshed from a long week, by a great weekend

#48 desserts

#49 window shopping with a friend

#50 little dishes to put my jewelry in

#51 giant pizza

#52 hard conversations

#53 sonic burgers [although probably deadly, very nostalgic for me]

#54 free printables that are helping me prioritize my days and week

#55 my first self-arranged floral arrangement

#56 jesus calling

#57 reading books with just solomon

#58 a husband who is passionate about homeschooling

#59 penguins [personally, i think an animal where God was just showing off]

#60 how serious nation is about dress-up

Making my way through my first 1000 gift list on Thursdays this year---

What are you thankful for this week?

Link up below.

2012 Boys

2012-01-17T09:55:00.000-05:00

Before I packed my Happy New Year's hats in the basement...I snapped a few shots

Pretty sure I got this smile because I promised a cookie or candy to Solomon

These boys keep me laughing

Thankful Thursday #76

2012-01-12T10:55:00.002-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

#20 a organized pantry

#21 my expired pantry contents "recycled" to my kids to play with

#22 the smell of spices and fun on my back porch

#24 playing checkers with my oldest son

#25 my husband working 72 hours a week this month [miss him, but thankful he works hard]

#26 a old navy card i never use in my car when my oldest son hid my debit card and i needed money

#27 videos on the iPhone of my bestie in nc's baby

#28 a friends baby being released home from the hospital

#29 a friend helping us get a sweet discount on some business equipment

#30 chatting [and eating and laughing] with my girlfriends about being a wife

#31 a friend coming over to scrapbook

#32 the beautiful light around 5 after it rains

#33 an "almost" mudroom...bath tub not far from the back door

#34 meal planning for 5 crock pot meals going rather smoothly thus far

#35 pb&j to save the day when one meal was a wee bit too spicy for the kiddos

#36 freezer full of fresh [organic? ha] deer meat

#37 learning about fascinating elephants

#38 losing a embroidery machine, but gaining a bedroom space back

#39 week two of no junk drawers and none of resurfaced

#40 how clean the sound of a dishwasher sounds

What are you thankful for this week?

I'm starting 2012 off making my 1000 gift list at A Holy Experience

Link up below and share what 1, 10, zillion things you're thankful for...

Funny Friday #29

2012-01-06T01:02:00.001-05:00

[Moses...looking at himself in the drain, but then he got a little too close]

It's been awhile, but Funny Friday is back!

Post one photo from your week that will make us giggle. Then link up below.

Thankful Thursday #75

2012-01-05T12:59:00.000-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

#1 plates with food left on them because my children are full

#2 for soup in the fridge on a cold day

#3 for the silence at 8 p.m. when kids are in bed

#4 for extra bags at the curb because we've hosted so many parties

#5 little fingers who play the piano

#6 dishes in the sink because i cooked [resolutions!]

#7 stems without roses because nation cut them to give to his friends [that are girls]

#8 boys who lay in grass and think

#9 for my little studs with suds

#10 bathroom drawers organized and clean [and a friend who did it!]

#11 those few hours warm enough for the kids to play in the sun

#12 passion 2012

#13 new year---new habits---new resolutions---new beginnings---new victories

#14 a kiss at midnight

#15 fireworks that hit the sky...and the house [thankfully no damage was done]

#16 fresh flowers

#17 christmas decorations packed away and awaiting next year

#18 when solomon gets to the end of mario brothers and waits to jump on the flag until i can see it

#19 for moses saying "georgi"

#20 for time off from school

I'm linking up at a A Holy Experience this year on Thursday's, starting my own 1000 gifts list. Making a list of the big and small, the important and then unimportant, the eventful and the uneventful. Finding reasons to be thankful in all of it. The good, the bad, the ugly and hopefully a lot of the beautiful.

For just a little while I'll be taking away the "top ten" part and making a list of 20 instead of 10, helping me end up around 1000 by the end of the year. For now...it shall just be Thankful Thursdays. You can do one, ten, twenty or however many you desire. Words or Photos. It's Thursday, just make it a day you remember...

...to be thankful.

What are you thankful for this week?

Link up below!

Catch Air

2012-01-04T11:37:00.002-05:00

We did a playdate for the first time at a new place in the area. Soo much fun!

Join their Facebook for daily 25% off coupon code words.

Sorry the pictures are grainy, I uploaded via my iPhone to BlogPress[you can click on them individually to see higher quality image]

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Kennesaw, GA

New Year's Eve Party

2012-01-02T23:23:00.002-05:00

nerts till 3 am

this picture needs a caption: charles trying to break dance...ending up with a bruised elbow [and ego] instead

12 Resolutions for 2012

2012-01-01T23:30:00.003-05:00

Last year, I made 11 resolutions. It was a bit hard looking back over them, feeling like I'd missed the mark [or 11], but a goal written down is better than no goal at all...right? All were achieved at least in part. That's what another new year is for...or so I'm telling myself.

To be honest, I wasn't at all prepared for the new year. It might have been because I hosted my first New Year's Eve party and we were still playing cards after 3 am, and my baby woke up for the day at 7 am. I think I probably should have made my list with a lot more thought and prayer, but I wrote some down on scratch paper while I was working out on the elliptical instead.

I love beginnings of years, I love beginnings of months and weeks, but I don't like failing. I know that none of "my plans" can happen without the Lord. I know that in all my efforts, I will surely fail, but in Christ, I can do all things. Especially those things He is calling me to do, and not just me thinking I should achieve. So, I don't really feel like I know already what all the Lord is calling me to in 2012...but here is a stab in the dark at it.

1. Inviting His Presence Into My Life More
Through more worship music in the house, more family devotions, more listening to my audio bible, more reading The Word on my phone, more praying for my husband & kids while at the sink, and more conversing with Him as I go about my day. In 2010, God taught me a lot about prayer, and finding time for His word. I loved all the Beth Moore bible studies and growing in the Lord with my girlfriends. There is always room for more---especially this year.

2. Putting My Husband First
Something God really has been teaching me about for the last two years. In all the small ways I put him first, he becomes first in my life in a big way. Serving, not looking to be served.

3. Loving My Kids
Only second to my husband, my kids are my ministry. I'd love this year to be a year where I grow more in training, teaching, and loving my kids. I guess the goal is---the least amount of therapy later in life needed. I had a period of last year where I struggled a lot with anger and yelling, it ceased for a good bit, but when some situations in life resurrected those heart issues in me---anger has reared it's head. I don't want to be angry in my heart. So maybe a SOZO. This goal also includes reading a few more books on parenting and reprograming my mind to practice what I preach. Patience. Slow to Anger. Sharing. Kindness. Selflessness.

4. Sleep
I'm a night owl, I've said it a zillion times. I'm spoiled because my kids sleep all night and take great naps so I can too...on occasion. With homeschooling and working out, sometimes I just can't---to which I rely heavily on caffeine and Jesus because otherwise I'm just a hot mess waiting to explode on the next person because I'm so sleepy. So many of my problems in life are solved with 8 hours of sleep under my belt. I'd love this to be the year I highly value those 8 hours of sleep in a row at night.

5. Cooking
Probably only second to complaining about my lack of self control when it comes to going to bed on time, is my complaining about my lack of persevering in the area of cooking. ~~I'm lazy.~~ I'm really good with a plan. E-mealz really helps me. So does meal planning, only I tend to weave in and out of consistency in those departments. Another great goal this year would be if I could become more of a planner and follow through. I still don't enjoy cooking, but I always enjoy when my husbands happy and when we're all around the table at night at a meal I made for them. Last year was the most meals I've ever cooked, so it was definitely a start. Health is always my goal, and the more we eat in the healthier it is. Saves money too. I need a rad 3 meals a day plan for this year.

6. Lose Weight
I hate to say it, it's so cliche, but it's a fact of [my] life. I was 225 when Moses was born and lost 20 before Weight Watchers, and 20 after, but have been stuck at the glorious 185 for so many months I don't remember. I really wanted to get pregnant about 6 months ago, but have really struggled with losing the next 20-30 pounds to put me back at my pre-baby weight. I can do it. It's not impossible, it just takes more self control and effort that I've given it so far. I haven't done my best, I'm not proud of it, but I am where I am and I'm ready to ask for mercy and try again. Not being pregnant has been really upsetting to me as "my plan" hasn't been happening, but we don't see the wisdom in getting pregnant on purpose when I'm so overweight. Weight Watchers worked, but became very difficult for me to keep up with while homeschooling & keeping up with this big house. I don't have a food plan at this point [never a good thing!], but I'm listening. I want one. My only goal in this department is to use my new elliptical at home for an hour a day...everyday...in as much as that is possible. A habit I really want to get into. Then---my reward---get pregnant!

7. Reading

Last year my goal was to read 12 books. I think I ended up around six. [1] Radical [2] Crazy Love [3] For The Child's Sake [4] The Five Love Languages [5] One Thousand Gifts [6] Men Are Like Waffles Women Are Like Spaghetti. I attribute all this reading to Audible. It was something new I tried last year and I loved listening to audio books. I didn't hit my goal of 12, but it was 6 more books than I would have sat down to read, so I'm thankful, and ready to try again for 12 this year. Another post I'll review the books I read last year.

8. Operation World

My heart is for the nation's. Hence why I named my first son, Nation. Life doesn't really allow to much foreign traveling with all my littles at home, but that's no excuse not to be involved in what God is doing. I bought the book, signed up for the emails, and plan to work through it as a family. I want my focus to be that of a world view, and not of a "I have so much laundry my life stinks" view. Perspective for 2012, please.

9. Be Mentored

One of my biggest "regrets" of 2011 was that I didn't have a personal mentor I spoke with often. I have a few ideas in mind, but I'd love the Lord to orchestrate that for me. I really would love a Godly older woman I could glean from.

10. Make Disciples

It's a God mandate. Love God and love others. The best way to love others is to: [1] Tell them about Jesus [2] Help them be set free to fully love him [3] Serve them [4] Live life side by side with them. I want this to be a year where I really focus on relationships---at all stages. To some, I need to share Christ for the first time, to others, I need to show them how they can be set free from bondages or be healed, to others I just need to take them a meal or help watch their kids, and most fun of all---live life transparently & peacefully alongside the body of Christ. It's something I want to wake up everyday being mindful of.

11. Scrapbooking

It was this time two years ago when I scrapbooked for the last time. I can't believe I'm even saying that. It's a hobby I really really enjoy, but when baby #3 came, more traveling, blogging, moving, new social life at church, etc etc---personal time for scrapbooking took a huge back burner. I'd love to [1] Make Moses a baby album [2] Do a digital album for 2010 [3] Do a digital album for 2011 and [4] Start a paper album for 2012. I need a plan for this goal as well. Oh, and a lot of time. I love photographing our life and displaying what God has done---it needs to make it's way back as a priority in my life.

12. Look At My Goals Everyday

I think that if I get some practical plans for executing my above 11 goals for 2012, and put them at the fore front of my mind everyday I am much more likely to accomplish them. For sure, waking up to a baby in a dirty diaper, a toddler who needs a drink and an oldest child who is ready to start school---it's easy to forget to pray, read, share Christ, or even brush my teeth. My desire is that I would be Holy Spirit led this year to be a better & healthier follower, wife, mother and friend than I was last year. I'm asking God for His goals, His plans, and His wisdom in executing all them with peace, joy and good fruit! Excited for all God will do in and through me this year. And you too!

What about you? What are your 2012 resolutions?

2011 in 12 photos ...the boys

2011-12-31T11:01:00.000-05:00

2011 in 12 photos ...nature...flowers...hearts

2011-12-30T09:22:00.000-05:00

january

february

march

april

may

june

july

august

september

october

november

december

Thankful Thursday Top Ten #74

2011-12-29T15:08:00.002-05:00

this would have been a keeper, but alas what really happens when you try to photograph small child

i probably would have picked this one if it wasn't for faceless moses

three boys, three personalities

the winner

[the above are the best of the best of the photo shoot we did for our 2011 christmas card]

[all taken by my old & dear friend mary beth from mango street photography]

Thankful This Year For...

...Ten Things that made my life easier...

1. more space in my house

2. a lower to the ground car with sliding doors & tv

3. ipad and all the games that kept my kids busy

4. a small group at church

5. not working out of town this year

6. beth moore bible studies

7. an amazing babysitter

8. not traveling for thanksgiving or christmas

9. working out in my house

10. parks/DAC kids/aquarium/children's museum/chickfila you name it. it helped.

What are you thankful for this year?

Girl's Night Out...Intermezzo Style

2011-12-28T23:41:00.000-05:00

My friend Cassie's mom was in town from CA for the holidays so Sarah & I joined them for dinner at Chow Baby and dessert at Cafe Intermezzo.

They look like sisters...huh?

And they act like it too! Too cute!

Christmas Day

2011-12-25T22:54:00.000-05:00

all three boys giving their "i don't want to smile" unnatural smiles for me

natural kisses

natural nose picking

my new necklace & charles new sweater

nation's favorite presents

moses got mickey & a miele vacuum like me

moses eating more than decorating

my 15 year old brother, nate, how did he get so old & cute?

decorating gingerbread cookies [brother noah & sister stephanie]

that evening we had our friends over with their two daughters and son [pictured] micah

friends=chris & cassie

picture that makes me look thinner than real life, i'll still take it!

Us...at Christmas

2011-12-25T00:38:00.000-05:00

we let jesus photo bomb our photo

i adore him

laughter keeps us together

serious

unserious [i have no idea what was happening here]

Pictures with Santa

2011-12-24T15:59:00.000-05:00

I usually laugh at the people who wait till the last minute and wait in those long lines right before Christmas to see Santa. Well---the joke was on me this year. We went on December 23rd and waited an hour.

It could have been worse.

Won't do that again next year.

At least kids liked it.

Well, Moses wasn't quite sure what to think.

At least he didn't cry.

Our Christmas Card

2011-12-23T23:19:00.000-05:00

Thankful Thursday Top Ten #73

2011-12-22T23:30:00.002-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

1. Christmas stories.

2. Not feeling guilty about buying lots of unhealthy sugary products this time of year "for the kids"

3. Music man. AKA my husband...who plays the piano from when kids are in bed till we go to bed

4. A cleaned out car.

5. A cleaned out garage.

6. Taking Nation to see The Nutcracker at The Fox

7. Christmas party with small group, Christmas party with girlfriends & Christmas party for the kiddos

8. Michael Buble's Christmas CD

9. Hearing Rita Springer sing live

10. Amazon & two day shipping for this last minute shopper [ha]

What are you thankful for? Link up below.

Christmas Decor

2011-12-21T17:42:00.000-05:00

before i changed my stockings because couldn't find moses a matching one

pottery barn kids clearance stockings

p.s. i bought two more for boys and two more for girls [ha ha, we'll see]

tree during day and night

i spy me

i reframed our last 6 christmas cards, missing only one of our first year married together [still...must...find]

2006 & 2007 2008 & 2009 2010 & 2011

we three kings card for my three kings from a dear friend in ireland

i thought the "balls" might be an issue with the boys, but to my surprise they weren't

garden ridge & glory haus

this along with most of my decor came from target

merry christmas charles

it was quite the hit at all the parties

two of my pinterest creations [we made several! yay pinterest!]

advent & a few of the crafts we did & our christmas books

lots of yankee candles in the house

more target

flowers from costco...told charles to keep them coming all season...red & green were so pretty!

$1 towels from target on left

Charles decorated the 10 window of our house with wreaths,
but I didn't think a picture of my house was a very safe idea, but you get the idea!

Like the Fall, it was super fun to decorate a house for the first time [in all 7 of our Christmas]. Thought I'd photograph all this before I took it all down. The very unfun part.

8th Annual Gals Christmas Party

2011-12-20T23:54:00.000-05:00

about half the ladies [i was terrible about taking photos that night]

lots more of this unhealthy goodness that night

fyi target carries this "middle sister" line of wine. i likes.

buttons & rick rack galore

we were making these coffee sleeves [they turned out awesome, should have taken photos!]

a few baby bellies

my ~~red sweater that needs a photo~~ friend cassie and i

also not featured---eight of us staying up till after midnight playing the card game nerts. good times.

oh, and me drinking 6 different drinks in a row:

coke

red wine

white white

hot chocolate

egg nog

chai

then the caffeine and relaxing matched up and i fell asleep.

C is for Cow

2011-12-19T10:07:00.000-05:00

C is for Cow

God's Word helps me grow.

1 Peter 2:2,3

Crafts from Pinterest about Cows

Took a field trip to the Children's Museum of Atlanta to the cow exhibit. Nation milked a pretend cow.

Books we read:

1. The Milk Makers by Gail Gibbons

2. Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You by Dr. Seuss

3. The Family Cow Handbook: A Guide to Keeping a Milk by Philip Hasheider

4. Cows Can't Jump by Dave Reisman

Life Happens [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-19T09:14:00.000-05:00

This I know...

Life Happens

...every time you don't expect it to.

Last time I posted on this theme "31 Things I Know" it was exactly a week ago. Putting me 7 posts behind. Hilariously enough, a few days ago when I posted on facebook "I'm 3 going on 4 posts behind" 5 people initially read that [and got equally excited] that I was saying I was 3 going on 4 kids, ha ha. Although I would compare trying to conceive with blog posting in the busy holiday season as they are equally challenging, ha. For the record, I am not with child.

I say all this to say, a little over a week ago, circumstances beyond my control in my extended family occurred that took much priority over blog posting. I think what makes a good blogger is someone who isn't blog posting when they should be attending to something in "real" life. That, and a lot of finishing up schooling, plus preparing for hosting two large parties at my house and attending a few myself. I see why people don't celebrate the seasons sometimes---it's a lot of buying/planning/attending. But, I think it's worth it...once you're at the party!

It attempt to keep going and catch up, I'm going to condense today's post by adding 6 other "things I know" to today's Life Happens. Cars break down, Finances lack, Children are diagnosed with cancer, Toilets leak thru floors, Bad reports over your child, Marriages struggle, People don't show up to things you plan... Just a few of the things I've seen in my friends lives this past week. I'm sure you could add to the list.

Life happens.

Especially when we lease expect it.

But, when it happens, I think the only real response is:

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

-1 Thess. 5:16-18

I know it sounds easier said than done, and you don't feel like it, you don't feel strong enough or spiritual enough and it makes no natural sense--but "this is the will of God for you". Give Thanks. You don't have to thank God for the cancer, but you can thank him that he is the Great Physician, you don't have to thank God you don't have enough, but you can thank him that He is the Lord who provides. You may have a lot to be stressed about, but how much more do you have to be thankful for?

6 other things I know...

1- Children should be exposed to different instruments. I'm beginning to think everyone could have been a musician if given the exposure and chance.

2-If you're not using it---you don't need it. Be a blessing, give away what you've been storing in your closets & cabinets and drawers that could be used by someone today!

3-Some things aren't worth fighting about. Sometimes it's better to keep small annoyances to yourself, is it really worth ruining a good night...with a fight? No.

4-Every woman should own at least one Rita Springer worship album. Just sayin'.

5- When someone pops into your mind, or something reminds you of them...you should probably pray for them and contact them. Sometimes they need it, sometimes they need it and didn't know they needed it. I think it's God's way of nudging us to rally around someone.

6-A backyard with raw materials is the best childhood gift you could ever give a boy. Maybe a girl, I don't know. That, or a dog, but you know I'm not doing that! I can't begin to describe to you the house my boys have created, pretended, played and learned together with all the random things back there. Oh, and it looks like super trashy & I'm sure my neighbors think very very low of me, but one day, one day---it will all pay off I'm sure. As Nation said the other day, "I hope one day I can make an invention for the entire world".

Merry Christmas week.

Hopefully I'll get back on track...if not, you know I'm attending to something important. ; )

Small Group Christmas Party

2011-12-16T23:02:00.017-05:00

thirteen couples [minus our 400 kids]

leaders+ their new baby

endless food

laughter

games

piano man

[don't worry] empty red cups

Thankful Thursday Top Ten #72

2011-12-15T12:25:00.002-05:00

Thankful This Week For...

1. The last week of school before a two week break. I love homeschooling, but I'm ready to just make sugar cookies and pinterest Christmas crafts.

2. Charles & the boys playing and singing Christmas carols

3. A date night at a fancy restaurant my husband worked at...dinner on the house opening night!

4. Clean carpets

5. Chapstick found...just when you need it

6. Christmas lights lighting up the living room

7. Friends who pray

8. GalDate with Sarah

9. Dinner with my sister & mom

10. Christmas cards in the mail everyday

What are you thankful for?

Link up below!

H is for Horse

2011-12-13T21:58:00.003-05:00

H is for Horse

I obey right away.

Colossians 3:20, Luke 2:51

Books we read:

1. Horse Tales from Heaven by Rebecca E Ondov

2. A Field of Horses by Peter Hansard

3. Horses by Gail Gibbons

4. The Horse Breeds by Bob Langrish

Movie we watched: World of Horses Season 1

My horse crafts can be found on Pinterest.

Dr. Jesus [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-12T23:24:00.000-05:00

This I know...

Dr. Jesus

...is my main practitioner.

I say that mostly joking. If you know me, you know I'm more of a natural person than a medical person. It wasn't always that way and I'm not even entirely sure where it all started. Here, let me write out loud and try to remember...

I grew up not going to the Dr. too regularly, but didn't really use any homeopathic medicines until maybe high school, but still not too many. My mom took me to chiropractor & gave me supplements my last few years living with her...so maybe that planted the seed of "going against the medical grain" thoughts. I've written before about how in college I was a nanny to a family who taught me more about organic and natural living. I explored some. But when I met Charles it all expanded...

Before we were even married I was calling him a pilgrim. He was wanting us to have lots of kids, homebirth, homeschool and not have medical insurance. Jesus was our great physician and healing was our medicine of choice. I sound like I'm kidding or exaggerating or even making fun of him, but I'm not. This is really what my making his own bread while single husband was [is] like. I think it became kinda a google search hobby for us. Whenever we had a medical issue we would just look it up, and then pray. Or vis versa. We didn't schedule an appointment right away, although we were willing to go to the Dr. when necessary, especially for the kids. However, to our surprise [or expectation] we just didn't have to go a lot.

Maybe an difficult ear infection here or there, but only maybe once or twice a year for our whole family. We take supplements, see a great chiropractor, eat healthy, and pray a lot. Through the last 6 years I've read a lot, and seen a lot to know---you can't always just do what you're told. It's good to read up on subjects for yourself, and not go into a Dr. office blindly. Yes, the medical community is amazing and life saving when necessary, but in general, I think we have to be cautious to be quick to be compliant. It's good to have an opinion, have questions, or be hesitant to try to latest drug or shot.

If I could offer some advice it would be that possibly we should rely on Dr. Jesus [and Dr. Google] a little more often than Dr. I know what's best for you so don't ask questions. Sometimes they know better than us, but sometimes we have a gut feeling---it's just not for ourself or our family.

So mommies, may I kindly suggest, you make medical decisions with much prayer, and knowledge, and little "sure whatever you say---you're the Dr. after all". Be blessed, be healthy---live long and serve Him!

Scrapbooking [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-11T23:02:00.000-05:00

[this has nothing to do with my post, ha, but I hope I just made you laugh]

This I know...

Scrapbooking

...takes less time in my mind, than in reality.

I think my first experience with scrapbooking was when I was in high school and I was at my best friends house and her mom was always always always taking photos of us. She also had 18 albums for each of her four children and proudly toted around a scrapbooking bag. About that time, I'm sure, I announced I would NEVER...scrapbook, or homeschool. Well, the joke was on me, huh? I proudly tote around two scrapbooking bags now.

I first scrapbooked [for real] when I was newly married and pregnant with my first child. I went on a scrapbooking retreat [yep, they are real, and they are awesome] and I started Charles' and I's wedding album. It turned out really amazing and it gave me something to do indoors all summer while I was huge and hot. [Well, of course hott as well]. Naturally, when Nation was born, I had a whole new world of things to scrapbook. His album was ginormous and only fit the first six months of his life. After that, I learned, although 100 photos scrapbooked of the same face---the same day---in the same outfit are precious at the time---they are not so much years later. Just overkill. Too many pages.

Since then I've decided each child gets an album birth to 12 months [sorry Moses, I haven't started yours yet]. Then I work on a family album every year. This includes all the photos of the kids, myself, my husband, our friends, trips, etc. I've done this for 2006 to present. Well, not technically, I mean, in theory. I have been on an almost *gulp* *gasp* [crying], two year hiatus from scrapbooking. I'm gonna blame it on the three kids thing. Even though Moses was born in March, I sometimes think being pregnant with my third and chasing a 1 & 3 year old in the winter in 1000 square feet was worse.

Either way, last year and this year I haven't put hand to paper or punch. It saddens my heart much, as I love doing paper crafts---especially across the table chatting with a dear friend. But last year had a lot of martial housekeeping to attend to on top of adding a third child and traveling to Ohio for 6 months. This year, my excuses include: Looking for a house, packing up a house, moving into a new house, and starting homeschooling.

Now...my plan is to do a digital family album for 2010 & 2011. Then paper scrapbook Moses 12 months. When all that is said and done, and hopefully sooner than later, I'd love to start a paper scrapbook of 2013. Wow, that's weird to type. All I know is that my scrapbooks are definitely the second thing I'd grab out of my burning house next to my kids. The hours and money I've put into them are priceless. They are extremely rewarding to look through and see all the memories we've had together, especially with our boys and traveling.

In such a digital age, I love to just sit and use my hands to craft with paper. In my mind, I have time, in my reality, I don't, but I sure hope that soon changes. Who am I kidding? Maybe I'll just drive off into the sunset and have my own scrapbooking retreat!

Do you scrapbook? Have you ever started? Stopped?

Junk Drawer [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-10T23:09:00.030-05:00

This I know...

Junk Drawer

...is where it's at.

This post will have no picture to express my extreme and deep embarrassment. When I was single I had no junk drawer, what happen to me? Every since I've been married I let a drawer in the kitchen be known as "the drawer were stuff when where I didn't know where it should go". AKA all Charles' stuff and maybe some pens, a checkbook, batteries and some lighters. Ironically, if you go to look for a pen, checkbook, battery or lighter---it will not be there. It's a mystery I can no explain. However, probably lots of screws & random left over pieces to IKEA furniture we didn't have the heart to throw away. Oh, and maybe some tie wraps. [see: my husbands profession: wires]

Since moving in May, I let two kitchen drawers be for "junk", but they have become so full you can't open them and even if you open the cabinets below them you will see the overflow---the has not so gracefully fallen below. It's sad, but still humorous when my husband goes to open them to find something and gets frustrated and starts pulling all the contents out onto the counter top. He usually doesn't find what he's looking for [must have been a pen, checkbook, battery, or lighter, ha ha]. I do have a plan one of these days to actually get organized and put to end these drawers, but we both [or we 100] know that will never happen.

However, my oldest son is [who is a builder & tinker] thinks this drawer is like a treasure chest. I often find him disobediently hands in searching for treasure. At least someone appreciations the drawer.

I have other areas of my life like this---my van, for one. Y'all that's an entire post in it's self, for sure.

Do you have a junk drawer?

This I know, we all have some closet, drawer, or hidden spot in our house that is just messy & organized. And you know what? Life will go on if we're 100 and it's still that way. Better to have a clean house and a few messy drawers than both clean and be so tightly wound no one wants to come over anyways. I often tell myself---that's what drawers and cabinets are for---to hide messes!

God Speaks [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-09T23:08:00.001-05:00

This I know...

God Speaks

...all the time.

In a world where answers are always needed. Where wisdom is always necessary. And where our own thought are never enough. God speaks.

We feel like He doesn't. We feel like He's absent. We feel like He hasn't heard us. Oh, but He has. He's speaking.

We don't understand His heart. We don't fathom His goodness. We don't understand His ways...or His timing. But none of this discounts the fact that He is speaking. All-The-Time.

In the majestic glimpse of weed. In letters on a Holy page. In words of hope from a friend.

If I know anything, it's Gods voice. I don't hear it enough. I don't ask enough. And I definitely don't get quiet enough. But, when those words of peace, comfort and will come my way. I know. He's speaking. He's words make sense.

If you wonder if He's there, if you wonder if He cares. Sit quiet, ask Him. Ask Him your question...

...Do you love me?

...What do you think about me?

...What will happen to me?

...Am I enough?

...What do you want me to do?

...Am I making a bad choice?

...Am I in your will?

...

Take what you heart to heart. Check it with The Word, and ask for counsel. Most likely, you've heard.

Timing [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-08T23:55:00.001-05:00

[cute photo...minus...bad timing on keeping my eyes open]

This I know...

Timing

...[in marriage] is everything.

Having only been married a little over 6 years, I hardly have enough marriage advice to write a book, let alone a blog post, however it's something God is working out in me and I thought I'd share. Timing, in how I communicate with my husband . So, what I use to do when my husband walked in the door, or when he called, or any time I saw him during the day---I'd start right in--- "the kids did this or that" "I'm stressed about so and so" "you need to take care of this that and the other" "have you done blah blah blah yet?" You get the picture. Usually also accompanied with a grumpy face, and selfish attitude. After all, weren't all dialogs between the two of us suppose to start with what was going on with...me? I didn't mean harm, and to be honest I didn't really think much of it. I just thought "hey when I see you, I'm always going to be 'honest' with you and let it all hang out." I never considered...timing.

I have by no means arrived, and I'm sure my husband could even snicker at reading this post remembering [possibly] me behaving this way recently, but I do feel like I'm finally aware and attempting to change. I don't believe in pretending, or being a Stepford wife, or putting on a happy face just because he turned the corner. However, I am realizing that sometimes it's not what you say, or even how you say it...as much as it is when you say it.

My husband is a dreamer, a visionary, and a man full of ideas [gadgets, gizmos and the next big thing]. I've learned through much trial and error, that he wants me to hear his ideas first, be excited with him, and not rush to stomping them out or playing devils advocate so quickly. Let it simmer. Let it sit. [Let him have time to realize it wasn't that bright of an idea.] There is a time and a place to bring that subject back up and mention that I'm not feeling it, or I don't think it's so wise, or I have some questions or thoughts about it. It's not about not saying anything, it's about possibly not responding so---immediately. And it's not about always agreeing with them, or lying, or pretending, or telling them what they want to hear. It's about learning to communicate with a man who is very strong, but very sensitive. A man who can be easily under my thumb...by my words. It's about timing.

So my lady friends, if you aren't already trying this---give it a go. I've recently seen this put out many fires before they even have a chance to start. Pray. Ask. Seek the Lord about how and when to bring things up, mention things, ask about things, or give your opinion and advice. It's not about being a doormat or tickling their ears, it's about being sensitive to the fact that given the wrong timing, your words may have zero productive effect...unless you count offense and fighting. Be wise, and use a quiet moment alone to dive into a deeper subject, verses across the kitchen over three children. Trust me, you'll be heard better...in more way than one.

Hope this helped.

Thankful Thursday Top Ten #71

2011-12-08T11:27:00.000-05:00

Thankful This Week For:

1. Nation and all of his "projects". The one featured above was a bug/frog trap complete with Moses' poop...which we discovered later was there to, quote "attract the flies, which would attract the frogs."

2. Atlanta Children's Museum [we went yesterday & the kids always have a great time]

3. When my husband cleaned up the kitchen after I told him not to worry about it while I was out.

4. My sitter folding all my laundry for me.

5. That we own Wii Mario Kart again. Helping me deal with the winter blues, for sure!

6. Christmas cards arriving in the mail

7. Presents bought and wrapped for boys

8. The new little bond I see forming between Solomon & Moses

9. Cows [we're studying them this week, they pretty much make a lot of stuff I love]

10. Our new piano. Long overdue for Charles & the boys. They are constantly making music now.

What are you thankful for?

Link up below.

Songs [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-07T23:01:00.001-05:00

[me pretending I can play when Charles & I were dating]

This I know...

SONGS

...can change my mood.

[and mind]

I am not musical. My husband is. My kids are. Again, I am not. Some have said I'm tone deaf, or even partially. Ha. I don't mind. I grew up in South Texas, so I grew up on country music. I have a special place in my heart for songs like "Neon Moon" by Brooks & Dunn and "Baby Blue" by George Strait. At some point after I became a Christian in late elementary, early middle school, I started listening to Christian music. I believe my first CD was Jars of Clay---the album with "Love Song" on it. A song, that consequently probably saved my life, that story is for another post. However, that led into other favorites like Third Day and Jennifer Knapp. Songs on their albums literally got me through high school.

There was a time when I didn't listen to secular music [you know, youth group bonfires and all], but slowly but surely I accumulated my old favorite CD's. I think it was early on in college when I got my first iPod and ventured into the world of downloading songs one at a time from Napster, I mean, iTunes. I can't remember how or why, but I started to fall in love with Rita Springers worship music. This was before I discovered bands like Passion, Hillsong United, and Bethel.

I hate the radio, and rarely listen. Our new van has XM so I love to listen to the "coffee house music" station. But in general, I just play music off my iPod in the car and at home. A few years ago I bought a player for the kitchen that wirelessly plays my Pandora stations, and I love it. It allows me to listen to just the music I want to---even if I don't own it. Free and legal. Take that Napster. I prefer worship music or music that gets my mind back on Heaven and not my [at times] [okay, who am I kidding, all the time] chaotic surroundings. Although, I do love me some good Jack Johnson. He's music, I mean, his ukulele just immediately teleports me to a beach and away from my piles of dishes and laundry. Charles gets a wee bit jealous, I did by him a ukulele last Christmas to give him a shot at being my next Pandora station, but he hasn't taken to it as much. There's still hope.

I'm made a quick [and I'm sure, sure to change] list of my favorite "get me happier" songs. Not all of them are "happy happy" songs, but they get my blood rushing or my mind going a different direction. I'm convinced on days [or weeks] when little music is played in my house---I'm grumpier. Somehow music tells me to chill out, let it go, refocus, be thankful, be happy, be in the moment---not somewhere else hating my life...bored to death, and overwhelmed. Sounds better to be happier, right?

Here's my list:

1. Where Did All The Good People Go [Jack Johnson]

2. Rise Up [Rita Springer]

3. Yellow [Coldplay]

4. Dancing Queen [ABBA]

5. Wide Open Spaces [Dixie Chicks]

6. Everyday [Dave Mathews Band]

7. Stand By Me [Ben E King]

8. Three Little Birds [Bob Marley]

9. Babylon [David Gray]

10. Jeremiah [Sara Groves]

What's on yours? Any song that gets you happy again?

Chores [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-06T23:27:00.001-05:00

This I know...

CHORES

...are unavoidable.

[so stop acting surprised & stressing out]

[picture taken last year in our apartment in Ohio while away on business]

I promise you the clean laundry pile I had today out weighed [literally] the one shown above. In theory, I'd wash and fold two loads a day, but instead I tend to sit down to fold 14 all at one time. Yes, that's about how many I do a week. And I only have 3 kids, Jesus help me when and if we quadruple that. Lately, I figured out my babysitter can fold. Ha! So I've been paying her extra to fold laundry while babysitting, or to just come over and fold laundry. Sad right?

Charles has allowed me to hire her for 15 hours a week to help me with chores, housework, babysitting or homeschooling. Since we've got 4,000+ square feet to keep up with and he's got a pretty demanding job at times---a lot of the household responsibilities fall on me. This is his way of helping me. I'm so thankful. I got off subject, but thought you should know---just in case you thought I "did it all". You may take back the super mom badge you were about to give me. So she folded all my laundry this evening, but still, I wanted to cry all day just thinking about how I hadn't gotten to it yet.

I think I've also successfully paid someone each year to wrap all my Christmas presents because A) I'm awful at it and B) I hate doing it and C) we're usually traveling this time of you so it's easier if someone else has them done for me when I arrive back in town. This year, no excuses, but apparently my babysitter is as handy with tape & scissors as she is with towels & jeans. Off subject again.

So, I say all this to say, I literally walked around my house today saying out loud to calm myself...

"You'll always have more work to be done than time to do it"

"There will always be clothes to wash, dry, fold and put away"

"The kids will always be making another mess somewhere else while you clean this one"

"Everyday there will be dishes to wash again"
"Your house will not look like a museum while you have kids at home all day"

"Your house looks like you allow to be kids"

[this is normal, it's okay]

I was having some major stressing going on today because my mind was in so many places...

---the junk drawers that can barely be opened

---the car that needs a cleaning out [and an entire post to explain how bad it really is]

---the basement that still needs further unpacking and organizing

---dinner [ahhhhhhh!!!!]

---the dirty and clean laundry

---all the cabinets that when I open I wince, and close quickly

I could go on and on. You get the picture. As I'm washing dishes, I'm trying to decide which chore I'll do next and what I'll do with 3 kids while I do that chore. Will I let them run around my piles of folded laundry on the floor, or will I strap them into the carseats while I clean out the car in the garage for an hour? Will I let them play in the unfinished basement while I clean it out? Will I faint if I empty the contents of the junk drawers onto the counters, only to have to leave them for several hours to attend to all the meals, disciplines, lessons, and so on and so forth?

Why am I caught off guard today by the normal daily chores of the car, house, washings, and meals? I can't explain everything in the bible, and I can't explain everything in my life. I think it's safe to say, some days just invoke a little more overwhelmingness [that's not a word] than others. I just kept telling myself to put one foot in front of another. At the end of the day, with the help of my husband, children and babysitter all is well with the Georgi house. Everything isn't finished, but is it ever?

To my sistas who tend to get overwhelmed like me---I think it's only appropriate to refer to the much overused and cheesy saying "Keep Calm & Carry On". Or in my case, Keep Calm & Clean On".

Camera Out [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-05T23:38:00.000-05:00

This I know [having the]...

Camera Out

...is necessary with little ones.

I have a very expensive camera [thank you husband who looked on my Amazon wish list], so it's naturally tempting to keep it zipped up in it's case somewhere far far away from our daily rambunctious lives. However, I decided a long time ago if I wanted to capture the "everyday", it would need to be readily available. So sometimes it's in a basket on the counter, sometimes it's in the cabinet sitting on paper plates, and sometimes it's *gasp* just on the counter.

Yes, it's almost fallen off or been broken a million times, but over the last few years---it hasn't broken! Moments like above wouldn't be caught if I had it put away. Now, mind you, with my iPhone, I am still able to capture things a wee bit faster as it's almost always in my hands, but the quality---well, you know---it still leaves much to be desired. However, it captures enough of the moment to make me wish I had grabbed "my real" camera instead of just my phone.

I usually upload when I can [which is my least favorite part of photography], and then organize into folders in iPhoto. I generally have folders for major events, holidays, or trips, but my steady two are: [for example] December Boys & December MISC. I use to organize more specifically, but now it suffices to have any photos of my boys in one and then any other random photos [scenery, charles & I, friends, objects, etc] in another. So whether you organize, scrapbook, or just fill up your hard drive with them---just take them. This is off subject, but that's just a free tip.

The moral of the story is having your camera out will make you more conscious to snap---snap---snap. You don't have to know what you're doing and you don't have to take too many or too little photos---just take them. It helps me to excite sometimes very monotonous days. To see God in the everyday. To see beautiful in the ugly or messy. To have something to remember how good God has been to me. How exquisite He is. To see him in the flowers brought to me, the toys scattered on the floors, and the naked bottoms that toddle around my house.

Amateur photographers, let's unite! If your camera has dust, bust it out like the broom.

Plain [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-04T23:09:00.001-05:00

This I know...

PLAIN

...is easier than fancy.

[photograph by Mango Street Photography]

I'd like to brag that my favorite color is pink, and while I think that is true, you wouldn't know it from my wardrobe. Maybe it's the age, maybe it's the kids, maybe it's the extra pounds from the first two mentioned---regardless my clothes tend to lend themselves to black, brown or white. To be honest, too many choices just aren't good for me. I'm overwhelmed easily. I confess, I love to be pregnant because they are such limited choices when it comes to shopping. I "have to" go shop at Motherhood Maternity and chose from their very few selections.

My house doesn't lend itself to much variety either---I tend to go through phases, the last few years it was an Ikea phase, now it's a Target phase. If you're wondering how I decorate [or lack there of] my house right now---walk up and down Target's home decor aisles. I can't help myself [I said it again], the thought of visiting dozens of stores to collect clothes or home decor overwhelms me, so I just pretend only Target sells it [for now.]

I'm a pretty plain jane. I find something I like, and I buy it in four colors and hope know one notices. I have one pair of favorite flip flops and would be happy to wear them 365 days a year, including weddings and snow. I have had the same hair style [more or less] for almost 10 years, I wear the same shades/brand of makeup for about 6 years now, although I tend to wear it [in the same] pony tail more often than anything. 99% of the time you'll see me with this jewelry on: my wedding ring, my pearl ring & my diamond stud earrings. I've also been ordering the same thing off the menu since I was a kid at my favorite restaurants and eating the same flavor of Ben & Jerry's ice cream. If it's not broken...why fix it?

I get my nails painted clear---because all the colors---well there are just too many choices.

If there was a one stop shop store for life, I'd be completely happy. Although I appreciate all the varieties of stores, hair styles and trends---I'm also perfectly happy to find something that works for me and never think about it again. Every now and again, I'll throw some "wild" colored scarf in or some shinny costume jewelry. But in general I'm completely content to wear almost 100% Old Navy jeans/undershirts /tops for-the-rest-of-my-life. I keep buying basically the same swimsuit---each time thinking it's different.

I'm like a cat.

You could feed me pb&j and mac and cheese every night and I'd just be so happy. So maybe you did or didn't know that about me, but I am a pretty stable girl when it comes to fashion [or lack there of] and decorating trends---home or personal. I'm likely to chose safe over racy, or consistent over up and coming. It's fun to be wild, but it's also peaceful to be me. I'm glad I don't have to be someone else---if I want to I can, but if I don't I won't. Oh my gosh that rhymed. I should end on that note.

Precious ladies---be yourself. Plain or Fancy. Pick what's easiest for you!

Date Night [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-03T23:52:00.000-05:00

This I know...

DATE NIGHT

...is necessary.

I guess years and year of babysitting my younger siblings one night a week for my parents so they could go on date night, planted a little seed in my heart that I am not fully enjoying the fruit of. It doesn't happen every single week of the year, but we do try.

Usually it's dinner and a movie, but sometimes we go crazy and head to the local bookstore instead. I must confess though, although one of my favorite things to do on date night, we immediately separate once in the store. Literally. He usually heads to something weird like books on..."How to learn a foreign language" or "Trigonometry for Dummies" or classical books & poetry. I too, seek out intellectual [thin] books---sometimes referred by some as magazines. I use to lean towards scrapbooking ones, but after my almost now two year hiatus from scrapbooking [gasp], I have been leaning towards books on decorating, dieting, and photography. Equally as education as numbers and Shakespeare right?

All joking aside, it's just nice to get out of the house once a week and catch up with my husband. To date him again. It's a great time to catch up on conversations we couldn't finish throughout the week because we kept getting interrupted with..."mommy, mommy, mom, mom, mama, mama...". It doesn't have to be fancy, we've eaten at one end of the spectrum and back. It just has to be without kids. Can I say that? We love them, but it's nice to have 2-5 hours to ourselves out in public like normal pre-kid couples. It takes me almost the whole night to even remember how to eat with two hands instead of one. Oh, and enjoy the silence in the car. I have been known to turn around and yell at empty carseats. Just sayin' #habits

It costs us money, but it's just in our budget to make a point to get a babysitter and go out. When we are tight, we usually have some sweet family members taking pity on us, or friends willing to trade babysitting. If you don't have family near you willing to help, see if there is another couple you can trust and take turns watching each other's children. Like I said, although dinner and a movie is very common, it can be very expensive too. We haven't thought twice before when eating dinner at home, making a coffee and taking it to the local bookstore---which costs $0.

And if babysitting isn't an option in this season of your lives, then make a point to make an in home date. Kinda like a staycation. Let's just be honest, it's not like going out, but hey---if you make it special---it is. Google it. There are plently of inexpensive ways to spend time together---just the two of you. If nothing else you'll realize A) you're doing a great job as parents and your kids sleep so quietly in their bed, it's like they aren't there, or B) you haven't trained your children and they keep coming down the stairs a million time so you decide to finally train them to stay in their beds all night. It's a win-win either way.

I say all this to say, if you're married, and date nights have been hit or miss. Make them a hit. Every week. Plan. Prepare. Brainstorm. Get a sitter. Trade a sitter. Show a bit lip to your mother or mother in law. Do anything, but take your kids to dinner and a movie with you and thinking no one else will notice. We do. We are on a date too, that's why we left our kids at home. I'm teasing. [Kind of]

A successful date night can be summed up by this...

---you are both so full you're sick
---you get a phone call in which daddy has to get on the phone and threaten to come home
---you thought that glass of wine would make you more friendly, but now you're just sleeply
---[or] that warm cup of coffee you romantically shared is now keeping you up well past your bedtime, but just you, because...
---the other person falling asleep on the couch upon entering the house
---you ended up seeing ANOTHER guy movie
---it was what it was, but you still can't wait till next week!

So my jewel on day 3---go out on a date. Doesn't have to be the same night of the week, doesn't have to be expensive, doesn't have to be perfect and by no means are you required to actually have a clean shirt on or pants without baby spit up and snot rubbed all over---although I highly recommend something that resembles you are still a woman and not just a daycare worker.

This, my friends, for bonus points.

Friendships [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-02T23:51:00.008-05:00

This I know...

FRIENDSHIPS

...are necessary.

I was already thinking about this all day, but I just saw my friend post on Facebook "Do men know that if we didn't regularly get out and have a girl's night...we'd die." I couldn't agree more. I love my husband, and I love my kids, but there is a special place in my heart for sitting down with a friend and doing absolutely nothing but chatting. Preferably about everything and nothing. Preferably until the wee hours of the night. Preferably about the shallow as well as about the deep. Preferably with lots of laughing and some crying too.

I've had a few best friends over the years and I have a secret. Follow me for a second---

KAYLA: My first best friend was my next door neighbor when I was 5. We'd get in fights over who was Ariel in the pool. Those were the days. We lost touch when I moved away---that was before cell phones, txting, internet and facebook.

RYAN: She was my best friend from school 2nd-4th grade. We were total BFF's. Matching iron-on sweatshirts, and raising our farm animals together. Literally. Yep, rabbits. We had all our own sayings and enough inside jokes to still keep us crying laughing. Thankfully, we didn't lose touch. Thank you facebook.

COURTNEY: We met in 5th grade after I'd moved again. We met in class, and were inseparable. Courtney and Candi, Candi and Courtney. [Yes, I use to go by what some would call a "stripper" name. Again, that's for another post.] She and I had some wild-oat-sowing days for about 3 years until I moved again. Boy are we different now than we were then. Let's all just say together in unison "Thank You Jesus." These days we stay in touch over our similar loves, hobbies and lifestyles. Stay at home mommies all the way!

BEKAH: We met in 8th grade, after...you guessed it...we moved again. She & I probably spent more time together in 8th and 9th grade than any other best friend I'd had up until this point. I think I lived with her Friday-Sunday most of the year. I was basically her families 4th daughter. We were an unlikely match, but our love for Jesus, seagulls, bee's, and boys kept us together. Recently we saw each other again for the first time since---9th grade. It was pretty awesome. She still makes me laugh---a lot. She turned out even better than I knew she would.

SARAH: Around the same time as Bekah, I had a friend I saw regularly at youth group. She was like an older sister to me. I really looked up to her and her walk with God. I spent a lot of time with her doing "the youth group thing"---you know---like burning secular Cd's in church bonfires. Oh dear. Yep, I did that. She still has an amazing laugh. She's real, and I wish we lived closer.

MICAH: Guess what? I moved...again. This time from Texas to Georgia. I met Micah at youth group and we were friends throughout high school. I didn't see her as much because she was homeschooled, but she showed me some pretty amazing things---like---Francine Rivers [why I finally started to read] and Jennifer Knapp. Which ended up leading me to more Christian music. For years we took trips together, mission trips even, and lots of concerts. She was my beautiful freckled face friend. We lost touch after college started, but I hope that changes one day.

The Ya Ya's: Something happen near the end of high school---4 of us from youth group got together and decided we were going to blow up that summer like a scene out of Now & Then. It's hard for me to listen to any music from the summer 2002 and not think of my "ya ya sisters": Bethany, Johanna and Micah. When I think of these gals, I think of staying up till 5 am all summer, cruising around listening to awesome mix Cd's and making a list of "firsts". Who will be first to get married, who will have kids first, blah blah blah. I'm still waiting for any prizes I might be due. Just say'in.

APRIL: Ever have an enemy turn into your doula? or maid of honor? or aunt to your child? Well. I have. My first college roommate didn't start off loving me too much, but over the years has became one of my closest friends. We are: CanApril. We share a love for owls [college mascot], chai tea, and Rainbow flip flops. She has been there for me for almost 10 years, at my wedding, the birth of my children, and lots and lots and lots of phone calls since. Like all my best friends, we never seem to live in the same state. She's in NC now. Pfff, she went and got married and knocked up---so selfish of her!

SARAH: Finally a friend in the same state, well heck, even almost the same zip code. I can't begin to describe to you the amount of words the two of us have exchanged. And what I mean by that is...we both LOVE to talk. We've been pregnant three times together, and by that I mean---three of our kids are only weeks apart. I met her at a church we went to shortly after Charles and I got married. I don't really remember how it happen, but I believe a love for scrapbooking that pulled us together. That, or, any excuse to get out of our houses and go talk. She's very wise, a true friend, keeps it real, and has been there for me through a lot. She and I enjoy doing a lot of the same things, and share a lot of the same views. This makes hanging out and picking restaurants very easy. She makes me laugh, and for that alone, I am the sane woman I am today.

So, my jewel, my tip, my word of wisdom----find a good friend. Be a good friend. Keep a good friend. I still talk to almost all these ladies regularly. Why? Because I value female relationships. Especially those that last a long time. Yes sometimes you annoy each other, and yes sometimes they do stupid or hurtful things, and yes sometimes you don't live close enough---but at the end of the day, it's better to have their friendship that not. Being friendless is worse to me than having imperfect friends. So...

If you don't have one---pray for one. If you have one---nurture it. What's your best friend's love language? Bless her today. Thank her. Make her laugh. Buy her something. If I know one thing, it's that without these women in my life---I would not be the woman I am today. They have been there for me through some hard times. For sure. But even beside that, they fill a void I think only mindless endless laughing female chatter can. It's beautiful. Chatting with any of these ladies for hours, makes me walk away feeling completely refreshed.

Our lives can be draining, go, be refreshed. Or refresh someone.

[This sounds like a Sprite commercial now.]

The End.

***Due to my extreme lack of actually putting fingers to keys and writing lately, I've decided to give myself a 31 day writers block topic...31 days of things I know. This will be 31 posts of random things I know. It may or may not be helpful. It may or may not make you laugh. It may or may not be things you already know. It may or may not be things you're wondering why I even bothered writing about. It may or may not be worth the 5 minutes I type these posts...regardless...I think it will be good for me to just reflect and write. So, I say all this to say, I hope you laugh, learn, and maybe even roll your eyes a little. Please Jesus, just don't fall asleep.***

Sleep [31 Things I Know]

2011-12-01T22:30:00.000-05:00

This I know...

SLEEP

...is necessary.

It doesn't seem like rocket science right? "They" say you need it. Your mom said you needed it. You hate your life when you don't get it...oh, but...when it's 10, 11, midnight and Pinterest---Facebook---emails and random Googling is calling your name, you answer. Is it just me? Ha. I think that Starbucks invented Twitter, Amazon & Etsy. After all, who else most profits from all the sleep deprived nights, but my local Starbucks? When she reaches that white [now red] cup across her window into mine---it's almost magical. Sleep in a cup.

I promised myself I'd never drink coffee, then I promised myself I'd learn to like it by the time I had three kids. Even with my nose pitched I swallowed the caffeine for months trying to acquire a taste. All I know is that the answer to "What is the most chocolatey, sugary, most caffeinated, least coffee tasting drink you have?" was White Chocolate Mocha.

I say all this to say, you can't spend all your grocery money on overpriced coffee, so sleep does seem like the cheaper option. Oh, and healthier. Yes, that too. Is it me, or when you're in bed you're thinking "oh wow this is so nice, why didn't I enter this about 3 hours ago" and when the first of your kiddlets runs in your room in the morning and you glance at your iPhone ---6:59--- you wish you had.

You promise yourself TOMORROW.

Then---your husband turns on an epically long movie at 10:08 PM. You watch. There's always Starbucks, right?

I stayed up till 3 am last night working on Christmas cards. This is an entire other post in itself. Let's just say, the deal ended at midnight west coast time, and I got it...at 2:59. And I totally reconsidered Christmas, shopping, cards, and being Scrooge. I digress---I slept 4 hours. Oh, but the nap I managed today was 2 hours of intensely deep sleep. Like the kind you have when you're pregnant and dead to the world. It was wonderful. Take that Starbucks.

I awoke a new woman. Ready to write about sleep. It's beauty and transforming personality power.

So, do you sleep? I try to average 7-8, really needing a solid 8 though. I use to do 6 and a two hour nap everyday, but now we usually do school during naptime. I can't help it, okay, I can, but I like to say that. I just can't help it, the evenings are so tempting with all the endless "me" time. Okay, that sounds selfish. Yikes. Let's wrap this up to say, I value it, I love it, I'm trying to get better at it, and I've felt it. I've felt the difference and as funny as I've made it out---it's important.

So in the words of a dear friend--- DO IT!

Sleep my friends.

Sleep.

Pinterest will still be there at 7 am, but not sleep. Thank you Solomon...my walking alarm clock.

***

Thankful Thursday Top Ten #70

2011-12-01T08:43:00.000-05:00

Thankful This Week For:

1. Laughter [went to an improv theater with friends]

2. December [or as Nation calls it...the month of Christmas]

3. Cards [after much labor...Christmas cards are in the mail]

4. Malachi [bff's first baby]

5. Mimicking [love watching Moses copy his brothers]

6. Decorating [it's nice to have a Christmas color change up around the house]

7. Basement [it's like a cleaner garage for all my stuff]

8. Chai [i've switched back to my old favorite these last few cold days]

9. Kids [makes Christmas all the more fun to shop for]

10. Vitamin D [taking a new supplement to help with the winter blues]

What are you thankful for?

Link up below!

Malachi

2011-11-27T21:36:00.002-05:00

Remember her? Well...she just had her first baby and this is him.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T19:35:00.000-05:00

table runner and turkey placeholders from Bed Bath & Beyond

table almost ready

charles cuts his first turkey & my son and brother Noah

table set...minus drinks

kids plate+adult plate

rolls go on forks

my bros, sister, mom, and my family

Someday They Will Be Grown...

2011-11-25T08:51:00.000-05:00

...but for now...

[photos taken at Portraits Innovations]

Thankful Thursday #69

2011-11-24T09:24:00.000-05:00

[ by Mango Street Photography ]

Thankful This Week For:

1. My bff, having her first child on Monday...beautiful boy!

2. My new house, so thankful for the extra space so I can host Thanksgiving for the 1st time

3. A God who is stable, and that His Word is available and true

4. Almost 2 amazing years now of being in a small group at our "new" church

5. A lot of baby victories! Lots of pregnancies, births, and adoptions that FINALLY happen for others

6. That we aren't traveling this Fall, usually its every other, and I'm thankful for the break to nest here

7. How fun and wonderful homeschooling Nation kindergarten has gone. #thankyoupinteresttoo

8. All the hours my iPad has entertained my children...I might play with it soon too...it they will share

9. A marriage that isn't where it was last year, and a husband who is fighting for us---daily

10. My three precious, personalty full, busy, talkative, outgoing, brave, "all boy" little men in my life

What are you Thankful for this week?

Link up Below.

"Be thankful to Him, and bless His name." -Psalm 100:4

G is for Goat

2011-11-22T12:23:00.000-05:00

This past week we studied G is for goats. Focusing on [the sacrifice] "Jesus died for my sins". Reading scriptures about how sacrifices were used in the old testament and how Jesus was our sacrifice in the new testament.

We read these four books shown above. Our favorite, of course, being Beatrice's Goat. A true story told about a girl whose life changes [literally from death to life], when her family is selected by a non-profit to receive a goat. We learned about goats can produce up to 16 cups of milk a day. Providing a much needed nutrition to poverty stricken families for up to 15 years. They can drink the milk, and make yogurt and cheese. Also, sell the excess daily to purchase other needed items.

So as part of lessons this week, we went to World Vision's gift guide and purchased three goats for three needy families. It was an awesome lesson for the boys! See video below.

As always, I found great craft ideas on Pinterest.

I is for Insect

2011-11-21T21:30:00.002-05:00

I is for Insect

I am a wise child, so I work hard.

Proverbs 6:6-9; 10:4,5

Colossians 3:23,24

Caught a Dragonfly

We did insect puzzles.

Bought some bugs for the kids to see in real size.

Studied their life cycles

Got an ant hill. However, I didn't read the directions and...well...killed the ants within a day. Apparently you're suppose to give them water, and not a cup of sugar, ha. Plan to order again.

A few insect crafts from my Pinterest category on bugs.

The books we read were:

1. Roberto, The Insect Architect by Nina Laden
2. Hey, Little Ant by Philip M. Hoose
3. Ant Cities [Let's Read and Find out Science 2] by Arthur Dorros
4. Simon & Schuster Children's Guide to Insects & Spiders by Jinny Johnson
5. Bugs are Insects [Let's Read and Find out Science 1] by Anne Rockwell

We also watched an amazing movie called: Life in the Undergrowth by David Attenborough

Grow

2011-11-18T00:06:00.001-05:00

Grow

I think we get too caught up in arrival.
We neglect that we are...growing.
We expect.
"They" expect.
We expect that they expect.
Expectations really stiffle sunshine.
We don't have it all together.
We haven't arrived.
We're not in full bloom.
The Son hasn't come back and fully shinned on us.
We're in process.
Is this a license to not grow?
Certaintly not, who would want that?
I want to be beautiful.
I want to be all the magestic things I could be for Him.
For him.
For them.
For you.
But, I don't grow fast, or better if I expect more from myself than...
My best.
Where I am.
What I can do.
I only have this much time---
I can only do so much.
And that---is fine.
With Him.
Not always me, or them, but Him.
I'm growing.
Like it or not.
Thank you for your patience.
I hope to extend you the same---honor--
Grow at your own pace.
In love.
With love.
By love.
For Love.

He's worthy.

Thankful Thursday #68

2011-11-17T23:57:00.002-05:00

Thankful This Week For:

1. Remembering it's Thursday before midnight [sorry!]

2. That a Mac Book is large so should *in theory* be easy to locate somewhere in my house...eventually...seems I've lost mine today

3. Thanksgiving is next week!

4. Motivations of love and not fear

5. NatGeoWild, it's Nation's new TV network he loves

6. That I *think* the last of the humidity & heat is gone...November, it's almost Christmas #takenote

7. That after three times of doing so, I'm not standing outside freezing waiting to get into a midnight Twlight movie. Ahh, my warm bed, and seeing the movie---on a much later date. Ha!

8. For everything that gets cleaned and organized, even if short lived, it's appreciated for those few mintues before---I shove more things back into the junk drawer so full you can't open it---again!

9. Boots, who have kindly hid my very semi-peeling/painted toe nails [hopeful a pedicure is in my future]

10. Texting, it's a way I take a "mommy break" and catch up with friends without having to scream over all the kids so the person on the phone can hear my words

What are [were? since it's so late] you thankful for this week?

Link up below.

W is for Water

2011-11-15T21:57:00.002-05:00

Last week we studied water and we had a lot of fun [and messes!] learning about it. We studied about how water gets from the mountains to the oceans, we learned about the water cycle, and we learned about the properties of matter [solid, liquid, gas].

We did the most science experiments for a unit to date. I didn't photograph them because...well...we were just having too much fun/water experiments and cameras don't mix.

We got some of our craft/experiment ideas also from...Pinterest...see my W is for Water board.

The books we read were:

1. Down Comes the Rain [Let's read and find out science]
2. Follow The Water from Brook to Ocean [Let's read and find out science]
3. What is the World Made Of? All About Solids, Liquids, Gases [Let's read and find out science]
4. The Water Hole
5. Science with Water [Usborne Science Activities]

The boys sure did have fun, especially with the hammer and the bowl of ice toys ; )

Like A Flower Out of Soil

2011-11-14T23:23:00.000-05:00

Nation brought a flower, like he often does, and some roots. I reached for "his" little spice jar I collect all his flowers for me in by the sink. They are separated---the flower---from the root, but in the water, you almost can't tell.

You know the saying, "like a fish out of water", well sometimes I feel like a "flower out of soil".

I can't decide if I should write to you about what I really want to write to you about, or if I should write to you about what you want me to write to you about...

Heck.

I think I've started cursing Monday's, I'm going to start planning super fun things on Monday's so "the suck" can't creep in. Usually it's the usual---cleaning up weekend house, catching up on laundry---oh and food---hit the grocery store, or wait till---next Monday---after all I can make bread and we can eat stuff out of the freezer all week, right?. Sorry kids, we're out of Cheez-it's, how about some croutons? But really, it's more than that, it's not even those chores that bug me, it's---something---I don't know to be honest with you.

I feel like a flower disconnected from my roots. Out of soil, and floating in water...ironically enough, by the kitchen sink. The kitchen sink where I stand most of my day.

I thank God for food to cook, shopping available, kids who are always full, a house to clean, soap to wash clothes with---inside! Still, "the funk" of Monday lingers. Drowning.

It didn't start off that way, even with 4 extra kids this morning, it was---usually nice. But two disagreements, school later in the day, a dinner I even chose not to eat [ha!] later---I'm crawling into bed early. Tear dried face, and wondering how I did today.

I tell myself.

You helped a friend.

You worked on your business.

You did dishes, laundry, and cooked three meals.

You got everyone to nap.

You schooled a Kindergartner.

[and don't forget]

You were out of your pj's before 9 AM.

Still, I didn't ENJOY my day. Where was my JOY? I live IN my day, but I want to live IN joy.

So when markers are on walls, and shredded cheese, rice and cheerios scatter the floor---I still smile. God, you're so good. Teach me to live IN joy. Turn my Monday's into dancing. You know the joy I feel towards the 3 pairs of eyes that look up to me all day, and the thankfulness I have in my heart for my blessed---abundant---ridiculous lavish life, but let me FEEL it.

Let nothing steal it.

Scripture & Snapshot 42

2011-11-13T00:57:00.000-05:00

You may or may not have heard...but my 31 Stitches Embroidery Shop is...well...Open!

-check out our beginning inventory for sale here-

Thankful Thursday #67

2011-11-10T14:56:00.002-05:00

Thankful this week for...

1. Friends who pray...when you're unnecessarily gloomy
2. That my best friend's brother---is in a better place
3. Starbucks Chai Latte
4. David Crowder Band concerts---just saw my last one this week. Always loved his comedic self.
5. Finishing up Beth Moore's bible study...gearing up to start a new one in 2012! [sounds weird to say]
6. Waking up sunlight hitting flowers
7. My mom spending the weekend with us [she cleaned, babysat, and organized!]
8. Hours in a bookstore---I could stay there all-day-long and never get bored
9. A busy husband
10. French Toast

What about you? What are you thankful for?

These Are The Days

2011-11-07T23:40:00.002-05:00

Recently I heard the song "These Are The Days" by Natalie Merchant [not a Christian song] on the radio, and although I'd heard it growing up, it took on a whole new meaning now that I have children.

To me...it was reminding me to cherish these days...today...with my children. I just soaked up these words as she sang...trying to remember what my [blog] friend wrote about today and how when it comes to choosing between the temporary [day to day chores & tasks & demands] and the eternal [hearts of my children]. I pray more often than not I choose the eternal.

After all, all I can take to Heaven is my friends & family. I can't take my organized pantry or my washed and folded laundry. Isn't that what those silly Pharaoh's believed? I wonder if I had a tomb what I'd have in it? Would I have my pristine house and super mom accompaniments? Homemade baked bread does eventually turn to dirt just like everything else.

But not my little ones---they live forever.

Friends, cherish these days---with your little children. They are numbered. They won't be pulling at our shirts or sitting in our laps forever.

This song says "something will grow within you", and I remember when something did grow within me, and I know how the privilege of watching it grow outside me. Although much louder, much more work, and causing me more gray hair now...I'm still blessed.

Lyrics:

these are days you'll remember

never before and never since, I promise
will the whole world be warm as this
and as you feel it, you'll know it's true
that you are blessed and lucky
it's true, that you are touched by something
that will grow and bloom in you

these are days you'll remember

when May is rushing over you with desire
to be part of the miracles you see in every hour
you'll know it's true, that you are blessed and lucky
it's true, that you are touched by something
that will grow and bloom in you

these are the days
that you might fill with laughter
until you break

these days you might feel a shaft of light
make its way across your face
and when you do
you'll know how it was meant to be
see the signs and know their meaning

you'll know how it was meant to be
hear the signs and
know they're speaking to you
to you

And if you can handle this horrible 90's music video check out the song on YouTube. It's hilariously 90's so maybe just listen to the song and close your eyes and pretend none of us thought it was cool when it first came out.

Scripture & Snapshot 41

2011-11-06T07:42:00.001-05:00

Psalm 91:10

In attempt to meditate and memorize The Word more, I spent a few dollars to help create a semi-beautiful way of displaying it. At Wal-Mart I bought the clear refrigerator magnet photo holder for $1 and the picture frame stand for less than $3. I bought enough to put one next to my kitchen and bathroom sinks.

I figure I'll write scriptures out on index cards and leave them there until I memorize them. Changing them out easily when that happens, and the clear plastic helps them from getting wet while we wash our hands or are doing dishes, etc.

How do you get in the habit of memorizing scriptures?

O is Octopus

2011-11-04T08:51:00.000-04:00

This week we're studying O is for Octopus, with the biblical concept "Even the octopus praises the Lord." Based on the scriptures about even the sea and everything in it praising the Lord [Psalm 104:24,25 and Psalm 69:34 and Psalm 148:7].

We made a few fun crafts that we found on Pinterest.

I enjoyed the books we read and we're now the proud owner of "Rockstar" our *pretend* pet octopus.

We plan to visit the GA aquarium in the very near future too.

D is for Dinosaur

2011-11-04T00:00:00.001-04:00

Last week we studied D is for Dinosaur, focusing on the concept that "Big and small, God made them all." We studied the scriptures, and read the book "What Really Happened to the Dinosaurs" to explain a biblical perspective to Nation.

We read a lot of really great books, and made a few crafts. Boys love dinosaurs, pretty sure this will be a subject we'll continue to study forever...

Found my crafts on Pinterest.

We also went to the Tellus Museum in Cartersville, GA for the first time---we got to see and learn about lots of neat dinosaur fossils.

Thankful Thursday #66

2011-11-03T09:41:00.002-04:00

Thankful This Week For:

1. A happy face found in a plain picture of honey after uploading

2. A safe trip back and forth to Texas this past week

3. Cars 2 [kids are mesmerized!]

4. After 6 months without a *real* vacuum I got one yesterday

5. A husband back home to take out the trash

6. Not grocery shopping this week, but still finding food in freezer/pantry [who knew?]

7. Passports for when you forgot your drivers licenses

8. Seeing friends Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday night [i.heart.my.friends]

9. Having the boys winter clothes in their closets & drawers now

10. My first outfit from my husband [he picked it out and surprised me]

What are you thankful for this week?

Link up below...

My Marvel Men

2011-10-31T17:19:00.002-04:00

Captain America

Spider Man

Thor

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Celebrating 50 Years of My Dad

2011-10-30T20:05:00.001-04:00

Picture of my dad and Moses.

Pictures of my dad.

My dad and the boys...mostly happy.

My dads 5 daughters...obviously this picture was taken by a camera phone hence our Halloween eyes.

Nation headed to play golf with his dad.

Solomon "fixing" the car.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Montgomery, TX

Feeding the Ducks

2011-10-28T16:19:00.001-04:00

My new shirt, scarf and necklace. What I wore Friday? Ha!

Accidental shot.

(insert caption here, ha ha)

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Montgomery, TX

Thankful Thursday #65

2011-10-27T14:30:00.003-04:00

Flying this morning from Atlanta to Houston to visit family for my dads 50th birthday.

Thankful for these 7 moments...

Since 7+3=10
8. We arrived with all our luggage9. We got compliments on the plane about how well behaved they all were10. We managed to find a Starbucks in the airport

What are y'all thankful for this week?

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

U is for Us [5 Senses]

2011-10-26T09:13:00.000-04:00

This past week we learned about the letter U, with the theme: Us [discussing the 5 senses of the human body]. Our biblical theme was: "God Made Us Wonderful". We mediated on Psalm 139:13,14 and Proverbs 20:12.

Each day of the week we took one of the five senses and read & studied it: Sight, Smell, Taste, Hearing, and Touch. Everyday we also did science experiments like: drawing blindfolded, blind taste & smell tests, Guess that sound game, and mystery guess grab bags with socks on our hands.

It was a really interesting week and I personally learned a lot---still a lot I don't understand too! The human body is [beautifully] complicated!

On Activities and Peace

2011-10-24T12:45:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I'm torn between the hustle of "opportunities" out there for my kids and the sanctuary of home. Music lessons, sports, clubs, classes...the list goes on. For three years we've played soccer and it hasn't been too much a burden. One practice, possibly one game. This year we did homeschool soccer, and aside from it taking up 11-4 of my homeschooling Thursday---the kids enjoyed it. [ha!]

As my kids are getting older I'm spying out the "opportunities" out there and weighing the cost.

I asked myself the other day, "What really develops Christlike character in my children?" I started to make a mental list:

1. Hearing The Word

2. Praying together

3. Talking about things we're thankful for

4. One-on-one wisdom talks with daddy

5. Daily life lessons with mommy

6. Living with siblings [learning sharing--putting others first--kindness--forgiveness]

Seeing as how most of my list happens at home---I started to feel a little better about my [to some] limited activities for the kids. I want my kids to make friends, and I don't want them to be sheltered, but at the same time---

I don't want them to spend most of their life out of the home either. Most of their time---in the car---going from this place to that, or with so-and-so, and not---me, my husband, and their siblings.

This isn't a judgement on those who like to stay busier than myself, but for me---I am easily overwhelmed by my house load if I'm gone too much. Peace is quickly sacrificed when my space is backed up, crumby and neglected. I'm not one to keep a spotless house, but I do value a peaceful one.

Are they out there? Moms who can take there kids to lots of activities, instill Christ's character, and still keep a peaceful home? Yes! I know them, but I'm not them. If you're like me, let's not try to be them---some of us---we'll, we're more prone to rush, anxiety and overwhelming ourselves.

Let's be free---to be us.

As it is, meals are already hard enough to come by, but the value I've already seen when we sit around a table---no where to be, no rush. Remembering life isn't a constant emergency. Is worth it.

I suppose I say all this to say---possibly let us rethink why we do what we do with our kids. Is it truly adding the character and value to them we'd hoped when we signed up, signed that check and driven back and forth weekly? Or is it "what we do" with kids?

Certainly there is a balance. I'd love to find it. We're just stepping into this season of activities with our coming of age children, so now more than ever I want to get this right---prayerfully---the first time.

I want to say YES to things that bring my children closer to Christ,

and NO to things that busy up our life.

Things that leave us all feeling

a bit tired, a bit rushed, and a bit further from knowing Him well.

What about you?

How do you handle the balance between kids activities and a Christ-centered home?

Froggy Phone Texts

2011-10-22T09:42:00.000-04:00

Me: [leaves kids with babysitter. Few minutes later...]

Sitter: [txts me]

Me: [Ugh, what now...what have they already done?]

Sitter: Kids caught frog, can they keep?

Me: [thank God] Yes, of course

#onlyamomofboys

Thankful Thursday Top Ten 64

2011-10-20T09:06:00.003-04:00

Thankful This Week For:

1. A baby in arms
2. Another baby in arms [after 2.5 years of trying all 9.8 of him has arrived]
3. Leaves falling on me like rain as I read under a tree
4. Hard questions that expose my lame excuses for bad habits
5. A few chapters into One Thousand Gifts
6. Climbing to the top of a mountain I haven't in awhile
7. A trip to Wal-Mart...alone
8. Peace of mind Psalm 91 brings me
9. Mailing photos to relatives [actually making it to the post office---I normally loathe]
10. Having my Thursdays back [last day of Homeschool soccer today]

When The Wait Is Over

2011-10-20T00:46:00.003-04:00

I'm not going to pretend I know what it's like to wait.

To wait for a child for much longer than 9 months. To wait...for years. Then, to get "the call", and 72 hours later hold a precious 16 day old infant in your arms.

After two blue, and a 6 year spread of time---here holding pink.

She and I have been friends for two years, and all this time I've watched her wait.

Wait with such grace.

Wait, while 4 of us with swollen bellies bring babies to chest.

Celebrating with us, never once showing the ache I'm sure she felt.

Tears. Prayers. Patience. Waiting. Trust. Hope.

Arrival.

"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire comes it is a tree of life." -Proverbs 13:12

Sweet baby girl, you are my most favorite tree this Fall.

I'm not your mom, but I know her, and I celebrate your arrival into her arms. I can't think of a better word to describe you than---victory. You are victory. For them, for me, for those who still wait.

Welcome Home.

You shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,

bringing forth fruit in season,

your leaf shall not wither and

whatever you do shall prosper.

[from Psalm 1:3]

To see her meet her parents for the first time...watch this clip:

Three Little Pumpkins

2011-10-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

Gold Rush Festival

2011-10-18T13:34:00.001-04:00

Free bibles. Boys eating The Word...literally.

Rubberband guns.

He did this naturally, right after purchase. #suchaboy

Charles took us on a scenic drive home instead of the highway.

Loving the light as we turn the corner.

When It Rains

2011-10-17T23:38:00.000-04:00

Scripture & Snapshot 40

2011-10-16T19:01:00.000-04:00

Catch

2011-10-14T02:05:00.000-04:00

Start.

Catching can be when someone throws something your direction and you do something with that. As a mom of three boys I am all to familiar with this.

God throws too. He throws these beautiful moments at me and suddenly I'm stopped in my tracks and I catch something---

Him.

The Fall breeze that catches me by surprise when I step out of my car
A baby posing for pictures without being asked catching my attention
The ground catching an unexpected storm
A camera catching a rainbow in the middle of chores

The way the wall catches the light in my house as the sun is setting

Oh He's praying I catch it and He's praying I do something with it. Take it into my hands and throw it back to Him, but not in a...I don't want this or a I don't have time for this way, but in a...I loved that, let's do that again, your turn Lord.

When He throws Himself at me, I pray I notice...I catch. And for that moment---even in the middle of chores, or a screaming baby, or brothers fighting---I'm remember His faithful presence in my life.

End.

Participating in 5 minute Friday, theme: Catch.

Thankful Thursday Top Ten 63

2011-10-13T09:39:00.004-04:00

Thankful This Week For...

1. Biggest thankful is that our small group leaders---after 2 years in the local adoption process---got THE phone call this week and are bringing home a newborn girl tomorrow morning! We are so excited. We've prayed, cried, and waited with them for a long time now and all of us are overjoyed.

2. My husband coming home tonight, it's been a LONG week without him. Thankful for his help.

3. My babysitter who came to my rescue 3 nights [once for bible study & twice for me to go to gym]

4. Which brings me to #4, that I got to take a Yoga & Pilates class!

5. The cool weather that is moving in as I type

6. The six ladies at my Beth Moore bible study table this Fall, Oh my how I love them. They are the perfect combination between transparent and hilariousness.

7. Only one more week of homeschool soccer. The soccer has been great---the getting ready/driving and being away from home from 11 to 4 has not. Hard to finish school work and kids missing those nap times. Probably won't do this again.

8. God's wisdom. He's so faithful to bring fresh and practical words to me just when I need them. And I need them... a lot.

9. For all Moses' words and the cuteness of them uttered: "No" [of course], "Katie" "Solomon" "Nation" "Grandma" "Baby" "Please" "Thank You" "Cracker" "Cookie" "Bye" "Hi" and his two favorite words, "Ma Ma" and "Da Da"

10. For the stranger who found my wallet in a parking lot and contacted me via google to return it