I love the start of a new year! It is so exciting! New beginnings, new goals, new plans, it's just so exciting! I typically make several New Years Resolutions and this year is no different. So...let's not let suspense build too much....:)
My 2016 Goals:
1. Be more accepting of myself. Now this sounds silly, but the truth is I could stand to lose a few pounds, eat healthier, etc. I'm not saying I am not going to work towards those goals still, but overall, I'm okay with me. I don't want to critique myself ALL the time. I want to be more comfortable just being the way I am. The happier you are with yourself, the happier you are in life.
2. Spend more time with people. With this goal, I mean I want to spend more time WITH people, not in the social media world, but physically with people. My goal will be to do something with someone at least once a month! So.......if you are free, let me know....we can get together!!! :)
3. Spend more quality time with my family. In society today, technology rules.....but I don't want my life to be dictated by what society says is important. So, I hope to put my electronics down more in 2016 and enjoy more quality time with my family....and maybe even a few more date nights with my husband. :)
4. 365 days of happiness. This December my husband has encouraged a "30 days of happiness" journey for me. Now, this has led to all sorts of fun treats and lots of pasta, but I have found that since we have joked about even the littlest of things being "happiness treats" that I, in turn, have been happier. Being happy is up to me and I am usually a pretty happy person, but life can definitely get in the way of happiness. I am not so naive to think that EVERY day will be rainbows and butterflies, but my hope is to focus more on the positives of each day and not let the negatives of life and the negativity of others drag me down.
I am excited about 2016!! These years are just flying by and I hope to be more "present" this upcoming year than ever before. Happy (almost) New Year!!!
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Sunday, May 11, 2014
9 Months Later.....
It's Mother's Day....and today has been perfect. My husband and girls have gone above and beyond to make today a fantastic day! I am blessed.
9 months.....It's been 9 months since Autumn was diagnosed Type 1. (Not the 9 months you were thinking, probably.) The other night Mark and I truly "talked about things" again. It's funny, you become so involved in your own lives that you just kind of "skirt" certain issues. Now, we talk about diabetes often....just not how we feel about it. And the other night we talked.....it was nice. We are at the stage now where Autumn looks great, feels great, and acts like her "old self" again. So, there isn't a "need" to dwell on our feelings, but we still have them.
This weekend meant so much to me. I watched Autumn play like she couldn't play last summer. I watched her and Allie in the backyard for hours...jumping on the trampoline, playing frisbee, laughing like there are no cares in the world. They were doing EXACTLY what they SHOULD be doing....and in turn, Mark and I laughed and smiled and played with them, feeling like we had no cares in the world.
It sounds silly and selfish...but my birthday was right after we got home from the hospital and Thanksgiving and Christmas were a blur....Easter was nice....but this holiday, Mother's Day....it was a perfect day for me.
I am blessed and my heart is happy.......today was a perfect day in my mind.
I hope your day was a fabulous one too. :)
9 months.....It's been 9 months since Autumn was diagnosed Type 1. (Not the 9 months you were thinking, probably.) The other night Mark and I truly "talked about things" again. It's funny, you become so involved in your own lives that you just kind of "skirt" certain issues. Now, we talk about diabetes often....just not how we feel about it. And the other night we talked.....it was nice. We are at the stage now where Autumn looks great, feels great, and acts like her "old self" again. So, there isn't a "need" to dwell on our feelings, but we still have them.
This weekend meant so much to me. I watched Autumn play like she couldn't play last summer. I watched her and Allie in the backyard for hours...jumping on the trampoline, playing frisbee, laughing like there are no cares in the world. They were doing EXACTLY what they SHOULD be doing....and in turn, Mark and I laughed and smiled and played with them, feeling like we had no cares in the world.
It sounds silly and selfish...but my birthday was right after we got home from the hospital and Thanksgiving and Christmas were a blur....Easter was nice....but this holiday, Mother's Day....it was a perfect day for me.
I am blessed and my heart is happy.......today was a perfect day in my mind.
I hope your day was a fabulous one too. :)
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Feelings....nothing more than feelings....
A lot has been on mind lately and since I can't seem to shake it, I figured I would write about it.
Ever since Autumn has been diagnosed I have had more sad days.....now, I still have more happy than sad days, but more sad days than I am used to. I am not sure if I am more compassionate or less compassionate now. I tend to notice how some people complain a lot about little things....and how they want a lot of attention about those little things, when I would like people to just ask me about my big things.....like, How is your daughter doing...or maybe even...how are YOU doing? It's not anything that people need to dwell on....but still, it would be nice.
It is hard being the parent of a Type 1 diabetic. The truth is, mine is handling it AWESOMELY, which makes my sad days even harder. She has said multiple times that she likes having it...it makes her feel more special, and that everything she accomplishes she will have done despite having diabetes. I am beyond proud of her for her amazing attitude, but I still wish she didn't have it.
I try to remember that we are blessed by having insulin in our lives to keep Autumn happy and healthy and then I realize that insulin is keeping her alive and that is a little crazy, when I stop and think about it. None the less, it is a blessing.
A lot has changed in my family's life in the past 5 months and sometimes I have to remember that too, it has only been 5 months. I have to remind myself it is ok to have sad moments, but I also know very few people want to be around you on during your sad moments, but it's still ok to have them.
I am very blessed by the family and friends that I have. I am thankful that my daughter has fantastic friends and that her friends have continued to love her and want to hang out with her, I am thankful for the parents of her friends who have continued to treat her as their own.
I try to be a very positive, up beat person, but sometimes that is tough. I know everyone goes through stages like this......I hope I can be the friend they need me to be and I hope people know that sad/bad days are ok.....they make the good days that much better.
As everyone tells me....Type 1 diabetes is manageable and my daughter can (and will) be able to live a very healthy and normal life......I just wish she didn't have it.
Ever since Autumn has been diagnosed I have had more sad days.....now, I still have more happy than sad days, but more sad days than I am used to. I am not sure if I am more compassionate or less compassionate now. I tend to notice how some people complain a lot about little things....and how they want a lot of attention about those little things, when I would like people to just ask me about my big things.....like, How is your daughter doing...or maybe even...how are YOU doing? It's not anything that people need to dwell on....but still, it would be nice.
It is hard being the parent of a Type 1 diabetic. The truth is, mine is handling it AWESOMELY, which makes my sad days even harder. She has said multiple times that she likes having it...it makes her feel more special, and that everything she accomplishes she will have done despite having diabetes. I am beyond proud of her for her amazing attitude, but I still wish she didn't have it.
I try to remember that we are blessed by having insulin in our lives to keep Autumn happy and healthy and then I realize that insulin is keeping her alive and that is a little crazy, when I stop and think about it. None the less, it is a blessing.
A lot has changed in my family's life in the past 5 months and sometimes I have to remember that too, it has only been 5 months. I have to remind myself it is ok to have sad moments, but I also know very few people want to be around you on during your sad moments, but it's still ok to have them.
I am very blessed by the family and friends that I have. I am thankful that my daughter has fantastic friends and that her friends have continued to love her and want to hang out with her, I am thankful for the parents of her friends who have continued to treat her as their own.
I try to be a very positive, up beat person, but sometimes that is tough. I know everyone goes through stages like this......I hope I can be the friend they need me to be and I hope people know that sad/bad days are ok.....they make the good days that much better.
As everyone tells me....Type 1 diabetes is manageable and my daughter can (and will) be able to live a very healthy and normal life......I just wish she didn't have it.
Monday, December 30, 2013
2013---Reflections
The year is almost over. Yay! I am good with this year ending. If I recall correctly, the first half of the year was pretty good! Although to be honest, I don't remember much about it. I do however remember plenty about the last 4 months of this year, especially since Autumn's Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis. I have blogged about that before...so I really want to focus on what I have learned this year...the good and the not so good.
1. I have learned that family WILL be there for you. I can't tell you how important and impacting that has been for me. I have learned more about strength and courage from them than I could imagine. And, I am not just talking about my little foursome. My whole family has been such a positive impact and I am so thankful for the love that we felt/and still feel. We are blessed.
2. I have learned that I am blessed with friends. Now, I am going to be honest on this one. I have some AMAZING friends, some I didn't even expect to do as much as they did and some that didn't do near what I expected. The truth...it's ok, either way. The ones who went above and beyond totally made up for the ones that didn't. To those who were there, I am forever thankful. Your love and compassion helped me in a time that I needed love and compassion the most. And to those that didn't do what I expected...well, that's ok. This was my storm to battle and not theirs......and it's ok.
3. I know God is there. Throughout the past 4 months of this year I have realized the role God has played....how He has been there and how He was working on our family LONG before I realized how much I was going to need Him. I am thankful for the times God allowed me to be sad, pray, and ask questions....and yet still knew He loved me and was listening.
4. I have learned a whole new form of math....carb counting..insulin calculating....blood sugar numbers....lots of math. :)
5. I have learned that A LOT of people don't understand what Type 1 Diabetes is....and that is ok. It was hard at first....when people would tell me they were surprised Autumn had it, because she was thin. Or the people who told me surely she could get it under control with a pill and be ok. Unfortunately, her pancreas as stopped working and she will need insulin for the rest of her life. So many people don't know the difference between Type 1 and Type 2....I didn't until we were faced with it.
6. I have learned that sometimes, in the darkest days, we just need people to listen. Sometimes the words that we use don't actually comfort people....the best thing we can do is listen and just BE there with them. Now, I don't mean this bad and if you are thinking....Oh, did I do this...no worries....I know people were trying to say the right things and sometimes it worked and sometimes it didn't. But, I always knew people were trying.
7. I have learned that even in the toughest of times we will be given positive things to focus on. I try to be a very positive person, but struggled a lot at the end of the year. However, the students I had this semester, the friends that were present, my wonderful family, the prayers people prayed, and the things I allowed myself to enjoy helped bring the optimism back.
8. I have learned my girls are resilient and I could not be any more proud of them. They are amazing. I appreciate their health and giggles more than ever. I have learned my husband is amazing. He is always willing to listen and be there. He has allowed me to cry tears of sadness and tears of joy and has continued to love me.
9. I have learned we are going to be okay. In early October I wondered how we would make it day to day....and now I know we can. We will have tough days and probably go through tough times. We still will live blood sugar check to blood sugar check. But, I can tell we will be okay.
2013 has taught me a lot. However, I am good with it going away and I pray that 2014 is a year of love, laughter, good health, and good memories for my family and yours. Happy New Year (almost)! :)
1. I have learned that family WILL be there for you. I can't tell you how important and impacting that has been for me. I have learned more about strength and courage from them than I could imagine. And, I am not just talking about my little foursome. My whole family has been such a positive impact and I am so thankful for the love that we felt/and still feel. We are blessed.
2. I have learned that I am blessed with friends. Now, I am going to be honest on this one. I have some AMAZING friends, some I didn't even expect to do as much as they did and some that didn't do near what I expected. The truth...it's ok, either way. The ones who went above and beyond totally made up for the ones that didn't. To those who were there, I am forever thankful. Your love and compassion helped me in a time that I needed love and compassion the most. And to those that didn't do what I expected...well, that's ok. This was my storm to battle and not theirs......and it's ok.
3. I know God is there. Throughout the past 4 months of this year I have realized the role God has played....how He has been there and how He was working on our family LONG before I realized how much I was going to need Him. I am thankful for the times God allowed me to be sad, pray, and ask questions....and yet still knew He loved me and was listening.
4. I have learned a whole new form of math....carb counting..insulin calculating....blood sugar numbers....lots of math. :)
5. I have learned that A LOT of people don't understand what Type 1 Diabetes is....and that is ok. It was hard at first....when people would tell me they were surprised Autumn had it, because she was thin. Or the people who told me surely she could get it under control with a pill and be ok. Unfortunately, her pancreas as stopped working and she will need insulin for the rest of her life. So many people don't know the difference between Type 1 and Type 2....I didn't until we were faced with it.
6. I have learned that sometimes, in the darkest days, we just need people to listen. Sometimes the words that we use don't actually comfort people....the best thing we can do is listen and just BE there with them. Now, I don't mean this bad and if you are thinking....Oh, did I do this...no worries....I know people were trying to say the right things and sometimes it worked and sometimes it didn't. But, I always knew people were trying.
7. I have learned that even in the toughest of times we will be given positive things to focus on. I try to be a very positive person, but struggled a lot at the end of the year. However, the students I had this semester, the friends that were present, my wonderful family, the prayers people prayed, and the things I allowed myself to enjoy helped bring the optimism back.
8. I have learned my girls are resilient and I could not be any more proud of them. They are amazing. I appreciate their health and giggles more than ever. I have learned my husband is amazing. He is always willing to listen and be there. He has allowed me to cry tears of sadness and tears of joy and has continued to love me.
9. I have learned we are going to be okay. In early October I wondered how we would make it day to day....and now I know we can. We will have tough days and probably go through tough times. We still will live blood sugar check to blood sugar check. But, I can tell we will be okay.
 |
| I love my sweet family! |
2013 has taught me a lot. However, I am good with it going away and I pray that 2014 is a year of love, laughter, good health, and good memories for my family and yours. Happy New Year (almost)! :)
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Our New Normal
Well, it has been a while since I have blogged. To be honest, I couldn't really think of anything to say and now I can't stop thinking about what I want to say, so I figured I would go ahead and write it down.
My 11 year old daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on September 30th. It was a true whirlwind of a day. We knew things weren't "right" with her and had been noticing changes for a few weeks, but since diabetes doesn't run in our families it never occurred to us. Sunday, September 29th we knew things were wrong. She was tired all day. She slept all day. She looked pale and just wasn't herself. We thought about taking her to an ER then, but what do we say...our daughter is tired? She would wake up and tell us she was feeling better...but then sleep again. We knew she would need to go to the doctor and so we planned to make her an appointment the next day. By this time I had entered her symptoms into Google and diabetes was at the top of the list. I even talked to a few people and I truly had a feeling that is what it would be.....but I was hoping I would be wrong. Autumn got sick that night and I laid with her for a few hours...praying for her. I was actually scared I would miss her last breath...she looked so pitiful...though she wasn't complaining at all. I went to work the next morning and Mark made the appointment. He took her to the doctor at 10:30 and I got the message by 11 that she was going to be heading to Arkansas Children's Hospital by ambulance. She had onset of childhood diabetes and they needed to get her there quickly.
Naturally, I felt like my world was falling apart. In hindsight there were tons of signs that we should have picked up on, but with her starting middle school this year we assumed a lot of it was that. Autumn grew 2-3 inches in the past few weeks and she had gotten skinnier, she was quieter, more tired, drinking lots of water, and was using the restroom a lot. She was confused at times and seemed to ask the goofiest of questions. Now...factoring in middle school to us it looked like this....Autumn had a growth spurt, but her weight didn't increase yet. She had friend changes and was just sad about them. She was tired because she was in middle school and soccer and youth at church. She drank lots of water because it was hot and she was exerting energy. She used the restroom a lot because she was drinking lots of water. She asked goofy questions because her mom is a blonde and she must have caught this trait too.
We spent 5 days in ACH and have learned lots. Autumn is handling things so well. Though she cried some at first and asked why a LOT she has truly taken hold of this situation. In type 1 diabetes, her pancreas has stopped working. There was nothing we could do prevent this from happening....so a different diet or changing her food wouldn't have prevented this. Unfortunately this will be something Autumn will have to deal with forever. I pray there is a cure and she has already said she hopes to be the first person cured from diabetes!
As I have said, we are working on our new normal and our typical schedule looks like this:
6:30 a.m. check blood sugar
6:40 a.m. eat breakfast (count carbs...for every 15 grams of carbs she eats she will need 1 unit of insulin)
7:00 a.m. give insulin
9:00 a.m. wait for the nurse to give us her blood sugar check
10:00 a.m. Autumn can have a 15 gram snack (anything over will require insulin)
12:00 p.m. check blood sugar
12:05 p.m. eat lunch (we send a detailed list of her lunch that includes the amount of carbs..same as breakfast)
12:20 p.m. insulin is given
3:00 p.m. blood sugar is checked at school before she leaves for the day
4:00 p.m. Autumn can have a snack...under 15 grams again
5:30ish p.m. Autumn's blood sugar is checked
5:45ish p.m. eat dinner (count carbs..same as other meals)
6:15ish p.m. Insulin is given
7:45 p.m. Autumn's blood sugar is checked
8:00 p.m. Autumn can have a 20-25 gram snack
8:30 p.m. Insulin is given
2:00 a.m. Check blood sugar
We want Autumn's blood sugar to stay between 70-150...anything under 70 requires sugar to keep her levels up.
If Autumn is involved in much exercise we will check her blood sugar more or if she ever feels off, shaky, etc. we check it then as well.
Our new normal is becoming more normal. We are learning so much every day. Sometimes I am devastated by all that has happened and other times I feel like this is just one more thing for us to conquer. This is our new normal and I know we are blessed. Being honest, I am mentally exhausted. Despite our situations in our own lives, others expect us to be the same we have always been, which has been hard for me at times lately. We are a work in progress...but I love my family and am more proud of them than they could ever know.
My 11 year old daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on September 30th. It was a true whirlwind of a day. We knew things weren't "right" with her and had been noticing changes for a few weeks, but since diabetes doesn't run in our families it never occurred to us. Sunday, September 29th we knew things were wrong. She was tired all day. She slept all day. She looked pale and just wasn't herself. We thought about taking her to an ER then, but what do we say...our daughter is tired? She would wake up and tell us she was feeling better...but then sleep again. We knew she would need to go to the doctor and so we planned to make her an appointment the next day. By this time I had entered her symptoms into Google and diabetes was at the top of the list. I even talked to a few people and I truly had a feeling that is what it would be.....but I was hoping I would be wrong. Autumn got sick that night and I laid with her for a few hours...praying for her. I was actually scared I would miss her last breath...she looked so pitiful...though she wasn't complaining at all. I went to work the next morning and Mark made the appointment. He took her to the doctor at 10:30 and I got the message by 11 that she was going to be heading to Arkansas Children's Hospital by ambulance. She had onset of childhood diabetes and they needed to get her there quickly.
Naturally, I felt like my world was falling apart. In hindsight there were tons of signs that we should have picked up on, but with her starting middle school this year we assumed a lot of it was that. Autumn grew 2-3 inches in the past few weeks and she had gotten skinnier, she was quieter, more tired, drinking lots of water, and was using the restroom a lot. She was confused at times and seemed to ask the goofiest of questions. Now...factoring in middle school to us it looked like this....Autumn had a growth spurt, but her weight didn't increase yet. She had friend changes and was just sad about them. She was tired because she was in middle school and soccer and youth at church. She drank lots of water because it was hot and she was exerting energy. She used the restroom a lot because she was drinking lots of water. She asked goofy questions because her mom is a blonde and she must have caught this trait too.
We spent 5 days in ACH and have learned lots. Autumn is handling things so well. Though she cried some at first and asked why a LOT she has truly taken hold of this situation. In type 1 diabetes, her pancreas has stopped working. There was nothing we could do prevent this from happening....so a different diet or changing her food wouldn't have prevented this. Unfortunately this will be something Autumn will have to deal with forever. I pray there is a cure and she has already said she hopes to be the first person cured from diabetes!
As I have said, we are working on our new normal and our typical schedule looks like this:
6:30 a.m. check blood sugar
6:40 a.m. eat breakfast (count carbs...for every 15 grams of carbs she eats she will need 1 unit of insulin)
7:00 a.m. give insulin
9:00 a.m. wait for the nurse to give us her blood sugar check
10:00 a.m. Autumn can have a 15 gram snack (anything over will require insulin)
12:00 p.m. check blood sugar
12:05 p.m. eat lunch (we send a detailed list of her lunch that includes the amount of carbs..same as breakfast)
12:20 p.m. insulin is given
3:00 p.m. blood sugar is checked at school before she leaves for the day
4:00 p.m. Autumn can have a snack...under 15 grams again
5:30ish p.m. Autumn's blood sugar is checked
5:45ish p.m. eat dinner (count carbs..same as other meals)
6:15ish p.m. Insulin is given
7:45 p.m. Autumn's blood sugar is checked
8:00 p.m. Autumn can have a 20-25 gram snack
8:30 p.m. Insulin is given
2:00 a.m. Check blood sugar
We want Autumn's blood sugar to stay between 70-150...anything under 70 requires sugar to keep her levels up.
If Autumn is involved in much exercise we will check her blood sugar more or if she ever feels off, shaky, etc. we check it then as well.
Our new normal is becoming more normal. We are learning so much every day. Sometimes I am devastated by all that has happened and other times I feel like this is just one more thing for us to conquer. This is our new normal and I know we are blessed. Being honest, I am mentally exhausted. Despite our situations in our own lives, others expect us to be the same we have always been, which has been hard for me at times lately. We are a work in progress...but I love my family and am more proud of them than they could ever know.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
It's tough...that's all there is to it....but..the feeling after it's done....AWESOME!
I think there are some misconceptions about people who work out. The one I think is the biggest is the fact that it is easy for those that do it. By that I mean that some people think it is easier for people who work out to do it. I don't think that is accurate. To be honest...there are a LOT of days I have to tell myself to work out. I have to make myself lace up my sneakers...I have to make myself pick up the weights.....I have to make myself drink my water.....not every day is easy. There have been some days where I am disappointed in myself for not running farther or faster. There have been days I have been so excited for how far I did run or my times. But the truth is...most days I do it and I feel good after....strike that I feel GREAT after. Even on my "bad workout days" I know I did it and that makes me happy. Today, I had NO desire to work out....however...I just finished 4.25 miles and I am glad I did it.
My running goal for 2013 is 750 miles. This averages out to 62.5 miles a month...about 15.5 a week. My September is super busy...so I have been trying to get in extra miles this summer (when I'm not as busy) so if I struggle in September it will be okay. I went on vacation the first of July, so I tried to get in a few extra the week before in case I didn't do as well on vacation. I'm not going to lie...it is easier for me to get my miles in the summer when I don't go to school every day. But that only accounts for about 2 1/2 months of the year. The other 9 1/2 months are tough. My school year is crazy....I teach high school kids, coach high school tennis (in the fall), teach a fitness class once a week, and coach one of my daughter's soccer teams (in the spring), plus am a MOM and WIFE. I am busy....I'm not complaining at all...just trying to point out that finding the time to work out is tough.
Working out has become a MUST for me. I have lost 20 pounds in the past 2 years and dropped 4 jean sizes and as AWESOME as that is for me (and no...I'm not looking for accolades) the mental aspect of it is possibly even bigger. I feel better after I have worked out. I can tell if it has been a few days since I have ran/worked out...I'm not as nice....I'm not as energized. There is a sense of accomplishment/pride after finishing a workout. I love knowing it's done. :)
Just know.....working out/running isn't easy.....it takes determination, time, energy, and motivation. But, if you had time to read this....you probably had time to do some type of workout.....:) Have a GREAT day!
My running goal for 2013 is 750 miles. This averages out to 62.5 miles a month...about 15.5 a week. My September is super busy...so I have been trying to get in extra miles this summer (when I'm not as busy) so if I struggle in September it will be okay. I went on vacation the first of July, so I tried to get in a few extra the week before in case I didn't do as well on vacation. I'm not going to lie...it is easier for me to get my miles in the summer when I don't go to school every day. But that only accounts for about 2 1/2 months of the year. The other 9 1/2 months are tough. My school year is crazy....I teach high school kids, coach high school tennis (in the fall), teach a fitness class once a week, and coach one of my daughter's soccer teams (in the spring), plus am a MOM and WIFE. I am busy....I'm not complaining at all...just trying to point out that finding the time to work out is tough.
Working out has become a MUST for me. I have lost 20 pounds in the past 2 years and dropped 4 jean sizes and as AWESOME as that is for me (and no...I'm not looking for accolades) the mental aspect of it is possibly even bigger. I feel better after I have worked out. I can tell if it has been a few days since I have ran/worked out...I'm not as nice....I'm not as energized. There is a sense of accomplishment/pride after finishing a workout. I love knowing it's done. :)
Just know.....working out/running isn't easy.....it takes determination, time, energy, and motivation. But, if you had time to read this....you probably had time to do some type of workout.....:) Have a GREAT day!
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Dinner.....UGH!!!
Tonight was an EPIC fail. We have tons of work to do. Is it manageable? Can it be accomplished? Yes! But, will it take time? Will it take patience? Will it take life changes? Yes! Yes! Yes!
I was with a friend recently, shopping, when she purchased cloth napkins. I asked her why and she said because she wanted to teach her kids manners and how to eat properly. Hmmmm.......fast forward a few weeks later and you have what happened tonight.
I obviously think today is a major holiday. For dinner tonight I made a pork loin, hash brown casserole, macaroni and cheese, jalapeno corn, rolls and a cake for dessert. It is amazing how just knowing I don't have to work tomorrow makes me feel like cooking! As we were getting ready to eat tonight I decided to pull out the cloth napkins. We have BUNCHES of cloth napkins, no idea how or why, but we do. I typically use them when we are celebrating a holiday at our house. That being said, I KNOW the girls have seen/used cloth napkins before. I know they have used them at my moms house and I am pretty sure they have used them at our house. So, when Autumn walked into the kitchen and asked why we there were rags by her plate at dinner I was shocked! WHAT?!? How does she not know what a cloth napkin is???
Fast forward to meal time.... we sit and say grace and begin our meal. I notice the elbows...4 of them on the table, all belonging to 2 sweet girls. I notice how often they talk with food in their mouth. I notice how they scoop food with their hands, I notice how (after being directed to put their napkins in their lap) rarely they use their napkins. We even pulled out an actual butter knife tonight and the girls asked what it was?
To be honest...it was a bit surreal as we sat there tonight. I also realize we can't change all of the things in one sitting. We picked out biggest battles tonight....napkins, elbows, and talking with food in their mouths. There is sooooo much more to work on. I am admitting that we are LAZY at meal times...we eat in front of the TV more often than we should, we often hurry through our meals to get to our next activity, and we often overlook what it is going on right in front of us. But, that all changes as of tonight. We can't expect our girls to act they way we want them to if we haven't taught them to do it. So, dinner may take a little longer and it will take some work on all of our parts....but we will succeed and we will be the kind of family that knows what to do with cloth napkins. :)
I was with a friend recently, shopping, when she purchased cloth napkins. I asked her why and she said because she wanted to teach her kids manners and how to eat properly. Hmmmm.......fast forward a few weeks later and you have what happened tonight.
I obviously think today is a major holiday. For dinner tonight I made a pork loin, hash brown casserole, macaroni and cheese, jalapeno corn, rolls and a cake for dessert. It is amazing how just knowing I don't have to work tomorrow makes me feel like cooking! As we were getting ready to eat tonight I decided to pull out the cloth napkins. We have BUNCHES of cloth napkins, no idea how or why, but we do. I typically use them when we are celebrating a holiday at our house. That being said, I KNOW the girls have seen/used cloth napkins before. I know they have used them at my moms house and I am pretty sure they have used them at our house. So, when Autumn walked into the kitchen and asked why we there were rags by her plate at dinner I was shocked! WHAT?!? How does she not know what a cloth napkin is???
Fast forward to meal time.... we sit and say grace and begin our meal. I notice the elbows...4 of them on the table, all belonging to 2 sweet girls. I notice how often they talk with food in their mouth. I notice how they scoop food with their hands, I notice how (after being directed to put their napkins in their lap) rarely they use their napkins. We even pulled out an actual butter knife tonight and the girls asked what it was?
To be honest...it was a bit surreal as we sat there tonight. I also realize we can't change all of the things in one sitting. We picked out biggest battles tonight....napkins, elbows, and talking with food in their mouths. There is sooooo much more to work on. I am admitting that we are LAZY at meal times...we eat in front of the TV more often than we should, we often hurry through our meals to get to our next activity, and we often overlook what it is going on right in front of us. But, that all changes as of tonight. We can't expect our girls to act they way we want them to if we haven't taught them to do it. So, dinner may take a little longer and it will take some work on all of our parts....but we will succeed and we will be the kind of family that knows what to do with cloth napkins. :)
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Asking for help....strength or weakness????
I don't like to ask for help. In fact, being honest...I think it makes me look weak. Which is very weird since I LOVE to help others. I don't view others as weak when they need help, so I have no idea as to why I would think others would view me as weak? Of course if you asked Mark, he would probably say I have no problem asking for help...or maybe it's actually that I am good at giving directions. :)
Truth be told, I don't even like to ask others to help with the girls......I like it when people offer, but unless I HAVE to have help I very rarely ask people to help.
That being said, lately I have needed help. But, that whole pride thing has been getting in the way....so instead, I have been trying to do everything, deal with everything myself until it gets to much and then I crash and have a massive meltdown.
After admitting something like this I always feel it is important to tell people that my life is great and that this was just a rare occurrence.....why? Because I don't want people to think I am weak. :)
I have lucked out lately....some of the times I have needed help the most...people have been there. I have been blessed with a husband who listens, understands, and agrees with me. :) He shows me the love and compassion that I need when I am at my lowest.
I have been blessed with friends who have texted at the right time, provided me with the comic relief I have needed, or even just been there to support me.
Well, the other day I did something...something a little different for me. I asked God for help. Now, don't get me wrong...I talk to God daily, but typically it is all in my head. My logic has always been that he knows what I am thinking anyways...so I will often turn the radio or TV down and we will have some great "mind conversations." However, the other day that wasn't cutting it.....so I did what I typically don't do...I spoke out loud. I simply asked for help. I think I actually said it about 4 or 5 times.....but it was out loud, it was different. You know....I think God liked that I actually asked out loud for help.....I don't think he viewed me as being weak. I actually think he liked it. It wasn't long before I was feeling better....that inner peace that is so nice to find. Now, to be honest I took a nap after my "talk" and I felt better mind, body, and soul.
All that being said, I can't help but wonder if asking for help isn't such a bad thing? Sometimes I think people need to know we need them....an out loud asking. Just as God knew I needed him, I think he was proud that I asked out loud.....perhaps he even saw it as me being a stronger person????
Truth be told, I don't even like to ask others to help with the girls......I like it when people offer, but unless I HAVE to have help I very rarely ask people to help.
That being said, lately I have needed help. But, that whole pride thing has been getting in the way....so instead, I have been trying to do everything, deal with everything myself until it gets to much and then I crash and have a massive meltdown.
After admitting something like this I always feel it is important to tell people that my life is great and that this was just a rare occurrence.....why? Because I don't want people to think I am weak. :)
I have lucked out lately....some of the times I have needed help the most...people have been there. I have been blessed with a husband who listens, understands, and agrees with me. :) He shows me the love and compassion that I need when I am at my lowest.
I have been blessed with friends who have texted at the right time, provided me with the comic relief I have needed, or even just been there to support me.
Well, the other day I did something...something a little different for me. I asked God for help. Now, don't get me wrong...I talk to God daily, but typically it is all in my head. My logic has always been that he knows what I am thinking anyways...so I will often turn the radio or TV down and we will have some great "mind conversations." However, the other day that wasn't cutting it.....so I did what I typically don't do...I spoke out loud. I simply asked for help. I think I actually said it about 4 or 5 times.....but it was out loud, it was different. You know....I think God liked that I actually asked out loud for help.....I don't think he viewed me as being weak. I actually think he liked it. It wasn't long before I was feeling better....that inner peace that is so nice to find. Now, to be honest I took a nap after my "talk" and I felt better mind, body, and soul.
All that being said, I can't help but wonder if asking for help isn't such a bad thing? Sometimes I think people need to know we need them....an out loud asking. Just as God knew I needed him, I think he was proud that I asked out loud.....perhaps he even saw it as me being a stronger person????
Sunday, January 20, 2013
So, really....how are you????
Throughout my 29 years of life.....hmmmmm.....okay, maybe 30 years of life, I have been lucky enough to meet some AMAZING people. I have met some of the strongest, most creative, giving people and yet one thing has been same for all of them. They all have good days and bad days. I wonder sometimes when I see people and they ask me how I am doing if they really want to know? I mean, if I were to really stop and start talking about what was going on in my life, good or bad, would they really be interested or do they just want to hear the word "fine" and know they asked. Over the past few weeks I have seen some people who I really care about need words of encouragement. But sometimes I wonder if people know that these people need to hear those words? Now, I am not pretending that I know about every person's life, and someone could even be thinking....you didn't encourage me when I needed it. But, sometimes I wonder.
Social media has definitely changed the way relationships work. I know some people who really only talk to me about FB statuses that I have posted. I know some people who the only communication they have with me is through FB. Texting has changed things too. I know that is a big one for me. I can be in mass chaos and think of something or want to tell someone something and I will just text it instead of calling.
Sometimes people need to know you are there for them. Whether it be through FB or a text, they need to know you really care.
I saw this quote the other day and I really liked it....
Social media has definitely changed the way relationships work. I know some people who really only talk to me about FB statuses that I have posted. I know some people who the only communication they have with me is through FB. Texting has changed things too. I know that is a big one for me. I can be in mass chaos and think of something or want to tell someone something and I will just text it instead of calling.
Sometimes people need to know you are there for them. Whether it be through FB or a text, they need to know you really care.
I saw this quote the other day and I really liked it....
I am at a really good point in my life. I have a fabulous family, a great church home, a wonderful job, and some great friends. But sometimes I wonder how good of friends are people now a days? Do we
just ask how people are doing to be nice, do we just hit the like button so they will see we responded?
Sometimes people need to hear encouraging words, and unless we actually ask and LISTEN....we won't know they need us. And in all honesty, sometimes when it comes to friends....words aren't needed. Just knowing a friend is there can mean more than any spoken words. I am so proud of the many friends I have who are amazing wives, mothers, and just wonderful people. But, let's be honest, in today's craziness.......sometimes people need to actually be told they are those things.
Friday, January 4, 2013
Random Acts of Kindness=Happiness
I've been reading several different books lately that talk about being happier or being a better person. One underlying theme in all the books, sermons, talks with others, etc. is doing for others.
We have all heard/know that we feel better when we do things for others. If this is the case, then why don't we do things for others more often? Now, a few things that I know from experience is that we if we constantly do for 1 person we begin to expect things in return from that person.....so, I think we need to vary the people for which we do things.
One of my favorite things I have EVER received came in the mail came from a friend, Lundy. One day out of the blue a few years ago she sent me and my family a card letting us know that she and her family had chosen to pray for one family each week and that we were that family for that week. I can't tell you how fantastic I thought that was. She was thinking/praying for us....out of the blue! I love that! Now, my plan had been to do the same and unfortunately it is still something I need to do...but it is a goal of mine.
We all know a random text, call, phone call, surprise from someone can completely make our day....so why don't we do more of it?
One of my "new" goals for 2013 is a random act of kindness each day for someone. It could be a card, gift, text, etc. It can be for someone I know or a complete stranger! What I should do is a make a list, so I can remember to do it and have a game plan.....we'll see if that part happens....but I will try. If I know doing this will make me a happier person, then why wouldn't I do it?
Have a GREAT weekend!
We have all heard/know that we feel better when we do things for others. If this is the case, then why don't we do things for others more often? Now, a few things that I know from experience is that we if we constantly do for 1 person we begin to expect things in return from that person.....so, I think we need to vary the people for which we do things.
One of my favorite things I have EVER received came in the mail came from a friend, Lundy. One day out of the blue a few years ago she sent me and my family a card letting us know that she and her family had chosen to pray for one family each week and that we were that family for that week. I can't tell you how fantastic I thought that was. She was thinking/praying for us....out of the blue! I love that! Now, my plan had been to do the same and unfortunately it is still something I need to do...but it is a goal of mine.
We all know a random text, call, phone call, surprise from someone can completely make our day....so why don't we do more of it?
One of my "new" goals for 2013 is a random act of kindness each day for someone. It could be a card, gift, text, etc. It can be for someone I know or a complete stranger! What I should do is a make a list, so I can remember to do it and have a game plan.....we'll see if that part happens....but I will try. If I know doing this will make me a happier person, then why wouldn't I do it?
Have a GREAT weekend!
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Goodbye 2012....
Tomorrow is the last day of 2012. It is amazing how fast a year can go! I have really enjoyed this year, it has had its' ups and downs, but overall it has been really good.
I had set 3 New Years Resolutions for this year and was able to achieve some of them.....:)
1st....I accomplished my goal of 500 miles...in fact, I am at 560 miles with one more day to go. :)
2nd....De-cluttering....well, I had my moments with this one and since we just packed up a bunch of things for Goodwill I have worked on this, to some extent.
3rd...my prayer journal....well, let's just say....I need to work harder on this one.
As I sit and reflect on this past year I can think of so many things that I did or tried to do....
I got to be a part of my brother's wedding which was a FABULOUS time with family! I am so blessed that he found such a perfect match!
I went on my first cruise...which I LOVED!
I ran a 10k....which I LOVED..... when it was OVER!
I have lots of memories with my sweet girls, who are growing up WAY TOO fast. I am so proud to be their mom!
I was spoiled another year by my wonderful husband, who loves me with all of my faults.
I tried to mend some relationships that I had not worked hard enough on and I tried to be the type of friend I would want others to be. I know I let many people down at times and was not there for some when they needed me, but it wasn't because I wasn't trying.
I loved lots and laughed often.
I tried to be the type of person God would want me to be and though I fall short in so many areas, I will continue to try.
As this year ends and 2013 quickly approaches I am grateful for all that I have and will continue to try and be better.
I hope to be a better wife, mom, family member, friend, teacher, and person in 2013.
I also hope to run 750 miles in 2013 as I have realized running makes me feel better, both physically and mentally.
I hope to continue to work on "de-cluttering."
I will try again on my prayer journal and spending more quality time in prayer. I will try not to ask...but to accept.
I hope 2013 is a GREAT year for everyone. Unfortunately for so many 2012 isn't ending like they had hoped and it hurts me to see my friends sad or hurt. I hope that the New Year brings happiness to all.
Have a fabulous and safe New Years Eve!
I had set 3 New Years Resolutions for this year and was able to achieve some of them.....:)
1st....I accomplished my goal of 500 miles...in fact, I am at 560 miles with one more day to go. :)
2nd....De-cluttering....well, I had my moments with this one and since we just packed up a bunch of things for Goodwill I have worked on this, to some extent.
3rd...my prayer journal....well, let's just say....I need to work harder on this one.
As I sit and reflect on this past year I can think of so many things that I did or tried to do....
I got to be a part of my brother's wedding which was a FABULOUS time with family! I am so blessed that he found such a perfect match!
I went on my first cruise...which I LOVED!
I ran a 10k....which I LOVED..... when it was OVER!
I have lots of memories with my sweet girls, who are growing up WAY TOO fast. I am so proud to be their mom!
I was spoiled another year by my wonderful husband, who loves me with all of my faults.
I tried to mend some relationships that I had not worked hard enough on and I tried to be the type of friend I would want others to be. I know I let many people down at times and was not there for some when they needed me, but it wasn't because I wasn't trying.
I loved lots and laughed often.
I tried to be the type of person God would want me to be and though I fall short in so many areas, I will continue to try.
As this year ends and 2013 quickly approaches I am grateful for all that I have and will continue to try and be better.
I hope to be a better wife, mom, family member, friend, teacher, and person in 2013.
I also hope to run 750 miles in 2013 as I have realized running makes me feel better, both physically and mentally.
I hope to continue to work on "de-cluttering."
I will try again on my prayer journal and spending more quality time in prayer. I will try not to ask...but to accept.
I hope 2013 is a GREAT year for everyone. Unfortunately for so many 2012 isn't ending like they had hoped and it hurts me to see my friends sad or hurt. I hope that the New Year brings happiness to all.
Have a fabulous and safe New Years Eve!
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Dadgum it, exercise....
To start with, this post is more for me than anyone else. I am admitting that exercise really does make a difference. I am also admitting that to make true LASTING changes for yourself you have to make LIFE changes.
The proof....buying smaller size jeans! Yay!
As most of you know I set a goal of running 500 miles this year. So far I have run 520 miles. My average was 10.6 miles a week. Plus, I continued my other exercise routines. And....it made a difference.
Now, number wise on the scale.....well, I wish it was a smaller number and at times the fact that it hasn't been a smaller number has been discouraging. I didn't lose lots of weight all at once....but, over time the changes have occurred and that makes me super happy!
I will also say exercise has become a part of my life. I am happier when I exercise regularly. I feel better about myself after I have exercised. I have more patience after I have exercised.
Now, I didn't write this to tell people what to do and running isn't for everyone, but running isn't all I have done. But, what I did was change my lifestyle for a goal I wanted.....I didn't do anything for anyone else...this was all for me. In turn, I am happy! :)
I still have plenty of work to do, many miles to run, and many planks to hold....but I am happy about the changes I have made and will continue to set new goals.
Now, if I can just make it through the holidays!!!! :)
Have a GREAT week and Happy Almost Thanksgiving!!!
The proof....buying smaller size jeans! Yay!
As most of you know I set a goal of running 500 miles this year. So far I have run 520 miles. My average was 10.6 miles a week. Plus, I continued my other exercise routines. And....it made a difference.
Now, number wise on the scale.....well, I wish it was a smaller number and at times the fact that it hasn't been a smaller number has been discouraging. I didn't lose lots of weight all at once....but, over time the changes have occurred and that makes me super happy!
I will also say exercise has become a part of my life. I am happier when I exercise regularly. I feel better about myself after I have exercised. I have more patience after I have exercised.
Now, I didn't write this to tell people what to do and running isn't for everyone, but running isn't all I have done. But, what I did was change my lifestyle for a goal I wanted.....I didn't do anything for anyone else...this was all for me. In turn, I am happy! :)
I still have plenty of work to do, many miles to run, and many planks to hold....but I am happy about the changes I have made and will continue to set new goals.
Now, if I can just make it through the holidays!!!! :)
Have a GREAT week and Happy Almost Thanksgiving!!!
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Teaching.......What's my job?
Okay, before I really get going I want to preface this with I LOVE my job! Love, love, love. I think it is interesting to really look at what my job is though. There is ALWAYS more to people's jobs than what we think or realize, so I definitely know that everyone is in the same boat.....lots to do, lots of expectations, and then we hope to make a difference as well.
I CHOSE to teach high school. I write it like that because it was truly a choice. I always knew I wanted to teach....it was just hard to decide what I wanted to teach....what grade, age, subject.....
Confession time....I love history, but I don't eat, sleep, and dream it....I LOVE teaching. I love being in front of the class, I love trying to make my subject fun and meaningful for the students. In fact, that is one reason I chose to teach history....my goal was to make it interesting and fun for my students.
So, we know that my job is to explain my subject matter to my students. All teachers are work to teach reading, writing, and I even teach math at times. :)
I also believe it is my job to teach life lessons. My kids should learn responsibility, manners, and respect. Some people make the comments that teachers should teach morals and character and to be honest with you....I am okay with that. I really don't have a big problem with it. The issue becomes if we teach it different from how a parent would want it taught. :) I have expectations....I expect for my students respect me, I expect my students to try hard, and I expect my students to be kind to others. That is part of my job...to teach these things as well. I find it funny when people think all the negative things kids learn come from school. I have small kids and though they have picked up on some negative things at school, most of the negative things my kids have learned haven't been "at school." My kids have seen things on TV, at Wal-Mart, on the radio and in the neighborhood that I wish they had never learned, so I would never just blame the school.
My job is to teach, to inspire, to create, to counsel, to make sure my kids have someone to talk to, someone on their side, someone to help.....but I also have to make sure they understand that respect towards adults should be given, that when others speak.....they should listen, and that we should respect others even when we don't agree with them.
I love my job and am so appreciative of all the people who are doing all they can to provide these gifts and school to my girls.
I am lucky enough to have a job that I love and though there are days that don't go as planned, there is nothing I would rather do. :)
I CHOSE to teach high school. I write it like that because it was truly a choice. I always knew I wanted to teach....it was just hard to decide what I wanted to teach....what grade, age, subject.....
Confession time....I love history, but I don't eat, sleep, and dream it....I LOVE teaching. I love being in front of the class, I love trying to make my subject fun and meaningful for the students. In fact, that is one reason I chose to teach history....my goal was to make it interesting and fun for my students.
So, we know that my job is to explain my subject matter to my students. All teachers are work to teach reading, writing, and I even teach math at times. :)
I also believe it is my job to teach life lessons. My kids should learn responsibility, manners, and respect. Some people make the comments that teachers should teach morals and character and to be honest with you....I am okay with that. I really don't have a big problem with it. The issue becomes if we teach it different from how a parent would want it taught. :) I have expectations....I expect for my students respect me, I expect my students to try hard, and I expect my students to be kind to others. That is part of my job...to teach these things as well. I find it funny when people think all the negative things kids learn come from school. I have small kids and though they have picked up on some negative things at school, most of the negative things my kids have learned haven't been "at school." My kids have seen things on TV, at Wal-Mart, on the radio and in the neighborhood that I wish they had never learned, so I would never just blame the school.
My job is to teach, to inspire, to create, to counsel, to make sure my kids have someone to talk to, someone on their side, someone to help.....but I also have to make sure they understand that respect towards adults should be given, that when others speak.....they should listen, and that we should respect others even when we don't agree with them.
I love my job and am so appreciative of all the people who are doing all they can to provide these gifts and school to my girls.
I am lucky enough to have a job that I love and though there are days that don't go as planned, there is nothing I would rather do. :)
Monday, November 5, 2012
I want cozy....but how?
My living room......I want it to be cozy....but how do you make it that way? I've been in so many houses that are so warm and inviting, decorated so nicely, and look like they are well taken care of. Unfortunately, that's not my living room.
So, my question is....how do you make your living room cozy...warm....inviting? I have a few ideas and have talked to a few people. But, I don't want to spend bunches of money and not have it how I want it.
A few things about my living room....1st, it is rectangle. Second, TV really only has one spot...at one end of the room. My fireplace is down by the TV. We had a picture above the mantle, but have moved it over the couch and that makes a WORLD of difference. But, now I need something for my mantle....a mirror? A large clock? Hmmmm......
Now, it is getting close to Christmas and to be honest, I love my living room at Christmas....I feel it is warm, inviting, cozy....I just don't want to leave my decorations up all year. :(
So.......any suggestions anyone has would be greatly appreciated......oh....and any ideas on what to do with all the clutter? :)
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Happiness......let's think about this....
I saw a question posed and began thinking how I would answer it......so, I blogged it. :) I wonder how others would answer this??
What’s a simple activity that consistently makes you happier?
Hmmmm......good question. There are a couple of ways to look at this question and I could have several answers to this question.
The first thing in addressing the question is can you include your kids, spouse, even friends in this answer? I say this because we often "lose" our own lives as we are part of our kids activities. I know watching my girls do ANYTHING makes me happy.....seeing my girls succeed at ANYTHING makes me happy.....but then am I relying on them to make me happy? I know that my husband is FABULOUS and being with him makes me happy...but then am I relying on someone else to make me happy? I also truly enjoy spending time with my friends......once again....is someone else making me happy???
So, I am going to address this question looking at what I enjoy doing that consistently makes me happy.
1. They way I feel AFTER I have worked out. (Note I said AFTER) :)
2. Making something makes me happy. Whether it is baking, creating, painting....I always enjoy doing those things.....however, I am not a fan of cleaning up. :)
3. Reading......
4. Being on or near water makes me happy....examples could include...the beach, the lake, a pool...
5. Doing things to make other people happy...makes me happy. (Not sure this one can count in this section.) :)
6. Sitting in my living room at Christmas time with only Christmas lights on and watching a Christmas movie while drinking hot cocoa. That is a little piece of heaven.
However, all of this being said....I typically have more fun painting, baking, or creating if someone is helping me. The beach, lake, pool is always a lot of fun when my family or friends are with me. I love watching Christmas movies with my family.
Happiness for me does involve other people. As much as I like some "me" time.....I am a people person and am so happy when others are with me doing things that make both of us or all involved happy.
If you have time....feel free to share what makes you happy! I hope you have a FANTASTIC week!
What’s a simple activity that consistently makes you happier?
Hmmmm......good question. There are a couple of ways to look at this question and I could have several answers to this question.
The first thing in addressing the question is can you include your kids, spouse, even friends in this answer? I say this because we often "lose" our own lives as we are part of our kids activities. I know watching my girls do ANYTHING makes me happy.....seeing my girls succeed at ANYTHING makes me happy.....but then am I relying on them to make me happy? I know that my husband is FABULOUS and being with him makes me happy...but then am I relying on someone else to make me happy? I also truly enjoy spending time with my friends......once again....is someone else making me happy???
So, I am going to address this question looking at what I enjoy doing that consistently makes me happy.
1. They way I feel AFTER I have worked out. (Note I said AFTER) :)
2. Making something makes me happy. Whether it is baking, creating, painting....I always enjoy doing those things.....however, I am not a fan of cleaning up. :)
3. Reading......
4. Being on or near water makes me happy....examples could include...the beach, the lake, a pool...
5. Doing things to make other people happy...makes me happy. (Not sure this one can count in this section.) :)
6. Sitting in my living room at Christmas time with only Christmas lights on and watching a Christmas movie while drinking hot cocoa. That is a little piece of heaven.
However, all of this being said....I typically have more fun painting, baking, or creating if someone is helping me. The beach, lake, pool is always a lot of fun when my family or friends are with me. I love watching Christmas movies with my family.
Happiness for me does involve other people. As much as I like some "me" time.....I am a people person and am so happy when others are with me doing things that make both of us or all involved happy.
If you have time....feel free to share what makes you happy! I hope you have a FANTASTIC week!
Sunday, September 2, 2012
7....she can't be 7....
Allie was born just a few days after Hurricane Katrina hit, so this year as her birthday has approached,and Hurricane Isaac approached, I have been even more so reminded of her birth day.
Allie was different from Autumn from the get go. Perhaps it was because I wasn't as stressed this time around or she was just an easy baby. :)
She has and is the type of girl who isn't afraid to do her own thing! If Autumn is my mini-me, well, Allie would almost be my opposite. She often plays by herself...even when her friends are around. I always worry she is lonely...she isn't. She just doesn't NEED others to be happy. She is so independent. She is a spit-fire. She is smart. She is beautiful. She tells me I am the best mom every day...which melts my heart every day. She loves bacon, pancakes, popcorn, peanut butter, pizza, and pigs in a blanket, oh and lasagna. She loves puppy dogs and wants to be a vet. She would help every animal, if she could. :) She loves her family and friends. She has an AMAZING imagination and I love to see all the fun things she creates.
She has and is the type of girl who isn't afraid to do her own thing! If Autumn is my mini-me, well, Allie would almost be my opposite. She often plays by herself...even when her friends are around. I always worry she is lonely...she isn't. She just doesn't NEED others to be happy. She is so independent. She is a spit-fire. She is smart. She is beautiful. She tells me I am the best mom every day...which melts my heart every day. She loves bacon, pancakes, popcorn, peanut butter, pizza, and pigs in a blanket, oh and lasagna. She loves puppy dogs and wants to be a vet. She would help every animal, if she could. :) She loves her family and friends. She has an AMAZING imagination and I love to see all the fun things she creates.
I have been suggesting to her lately that she just turn 4 this year instead of 7...to which she replies..."No, Mom....I have to grow up." The problem is...I'm not ready for that. I love that she still crawls in my lap and hugs me when she sees me. She will always be my baby....Happy Birthday Alliebug!! I am so proud of you!
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Reasons I admire my daughter.....
Autumn turns 10 today...double digits. YIKES!!! The older she gets, the more I am impressed by her. Some of the things that I admire the most about her could also be some of the things that make me or even other crazy....but when you think about the following qualities she has....they are admirable.
1. Autumn is extremely compassionate. She is definitely a chatterbox, but she talks to everyone...not just the popular kids. In fact one of my favorite compliments I have ever received about Autumn is how she talks and encourages the kids that don't have friends or that have differences, that others might make fun of them for. Raising a child who doesn't acknowledge differences.....well, that makes me proud.
2. Autumn is determined. She does not like others being better at her at things. Now, I think this can get on people's nerves. By that I mean, if someone can climb a rock wall in 10 seconds, Autumn will say she can do it faster...sometimes she can, sometimes she can't...but she will continue to work at it until she does it. To me, that is a sign that she will be successful in life. She won't give up....she will always (hopefully) believe that she CAN do anything.
3. Autumn is encouraging/complimentary. I bet Autumn tells me every day how pretty I am or that I am a good mom and the best part is, she says it with sincerity. Autumn loves to find reasons to make others feel good about themselves. I love this quality. I love the fact that Autumn is always looking for a reason to make other people smile and she doesn't do it to get a compliment back (though my child LOVES receiving them). :)
4. Autumn doesn't have a lot of needs. She has some wants...but for most of her wants she is okay with knowing she doesn't get everything she wants. She would LOVE to have a phone (though in our situation I don't see a reason for her to have one). Though she won't be getting a phone, she knows that when she turns around 16 she MIGHT get one, so she thinks she will start saving money now so that she will have money to pay the fees when she turns 16. Sometimes her understanding of not receiving does make me want to give her what she wants....but, no to the phone. :)
5. Autumn is an AMAZING big sister. There is NOTHING she would not do for her sister. She plays with her, takes care of her, helps her, encourages her, reads to her, she is just AWESOME. Though sometimes this can be a negative....she is so willing to do for her sister that her sister doesn't always learn to do it for herself. :)
6. Autumn is so well-rounded. She is an absolutely beautiful girl (and no, I'm not bias). :) She loves to deer hunt. She loves to dance. She loves to wear make-up and she loves to play in the mud. She loves to watch classic movies, like Bye Bye Birdie, John Wayne movies, and White Christmas, but she can't wait for the Breaking Dawn Part 2 to come out. She loves all types of music and is willing to try anything. She loves to dance with my grandmother, play with her cousins, and wear a St. Louis Cardinal hat to make her Papaw smile and the rest of us cringe. :) She is a little bit of everything and a whole lot of wonderful.
I am so proud of the beautiful young lady that my daughter is becoming and I love her so much! :)
1. Autumn is extremely compassionate. She is definitely a chatterbox, but she talks to everyone...not just the popular kids. In fact one of my favorite compliments I have ever received about Autumn is how she talks and encourages the kids that don't have friends or that have differences, that others might make fun of them for. Raising a child who doesn't acknowledge differences.....well, that makes me proud.
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| My sweet baby....I had expected blonde hair and blue eyes, instead....brown hair and brown eyes...PERFECT!! |
2. Autumn is determined. She does not like others being better at her at things. Now, I think this can get on people's nerves. By that I mean, if someone can climb a rock wall in 10 seconds, Autumn will say she can do it faster...sometimes she can, sometimes she can't...but she will continue to work at it until she does it. To me, that is a sign that she will be successful in life. She won't give up....she will always (hopefully) believe that she CAN do anything.
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| Sweet Girl! |
3. Autumn is encouraging/complimentary. I bet Autumn tells me every day how pretty I am or that I am a good mom and the best part is, she says it with sincerity. Autumn loves to find reasons to make others feel good about themselves. I love this quality. I love the fact that Autumn is always looking for a reason to make other people smile and she doesn't do it to get a compliment back (though my child LOVES receiving them). :)
4. Autumn doesn't have a lot of needs. She has some wants...but for most of her wants she is okay with knowing she doesn't get everything she wants. She would LOVE to have a phone (though in our situation I don't see a reason for her to have one). Though she won't be getting a phone, she knows that when she turns around 16 she MIGHT get one, so she thinks she will start saving money now so that she will have money to pay the fees when she turns 16. Sometimes her understanding of not receiving does make me want to give her what she wants....but, no to the phone. :)
5. Autumn is an AMAZING big sister. There is NOTHING she would not do for her sister. She plays with her, takes care of her, helps her, encourages her, reads to her, she is just AWESOME. Though sometimes this can be a negative....she is so willing to do for her sister that her sister doesn't always learn to do it for herself. :)
6. Autumn is so well-rounded. She is an absolutely beautiful girl (and no, I'm not bias). :) She loves to deer hunt. She loves to dance. She loves to wear make-up and she loves to play in the mud. She loves to watch classic movies, like Bye Bye Birdie, John Wayne movies, and White Christmas, but she can't wait for the Breaking Dawn Part 2 to come out. She loves all types of music and is willing to try anything. She loves to dance with my grandmother, play with her cousins, and wear a St. Louis Cardinal hat to make her Papaw smile and the rest of us cringe. :) She is a little bit of everything and a whole lot of wonderful.
I am so proud of the beautiful young lady that my daughter is becoming and I love her so much! :)
Monday, July 16, 2012
Me....the REAL me....
It may sound funny, but sometimes I wonder who I really am. I mean, I know who I am, but am I the person I want to be or used to be? A lot has changed in my 35 (yikes!!!) years. I have moved away from home, gotten married, become a teacher, become a mother, made friends, kept friends, lost friends, made new friends, become a soccer mom, a fitness instructor....the list could go on and on....:)
This past week Mark and I went on a 7 day cruise. It was our 1st ever to go on and we LOVED it!! We went with some friends and had a FANTASTIC time. We made some new friends, we climbed waterfalls, laid on beaches, visited Mayan Ruins (that's a whole other blog), enjoyed food whenever we wanted, watched shows, danced, ate, and ate some more...it was FABULOUS. If you ever get the chance to go on a cruise, I highly recommend it. I do think it was super fun going with friends. We laughed so much and had such a GREAT time with them. I know cruising may not be for everyone....but it was perfect for Mark and I.
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| Us....just being us....:) |
This cruise was possibly the most stress-free vacation I have ever had (since becoming an adult). :) It sure was nice when my parents used to take us on vacations as kids and they paid. :) I truly felt like me again...me as in, Darci. Not a mom, or teacher, or house cleaner, or cook, or taxi driver...now all of those things I enjoy....but gosh it was fun being just me. I enjoyed spending time with Mark...it was our time....we couldn't use cell phones on the ship, we never checked e-mails, it was just us time. It was so nice. We dressed up for dinner, we slept in, we stayed up late, we laughed with friends, we played, we were just us.. and it was so nice. I didn't feel any pressure, I felt like me.
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| Fun with friends....:) |
So often once we get married life consumes us, especially once you have kids. Time with your spouse is priceless. Time to be an adult and laugh with your spouse and friends is so good for your soul. I can honestly say that after this vacation, I feel better. I feel better about me as a wife, as a mom, and just as a person. I hope that everyone can have those types of getaways. I know sometimes we say there isn't time, there isn't money....but the truth is, these experiences can happen anywhere. Mark and I watched the sun set one night over the water and we commented how we could sit and watch this every night, yet we don't take the time. It was beautiful...the stillness, the colors, the fact we weren't doing anything, but watching the sun set. I truly hope everyone can enjoy the same type of peace and relaxation I found. I hope it can be found in the perfect place and perfect time for you....mine just happen to come at just the right time in the Caribbean. :)
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| :) |
Have a GREAT night!
Friday, June 29, 2012
Strength.....
I have been having a super fun, but busy summer. This week I have had a few opportunities to sit and watch what I want on TV and have been loving watching the Olympic Trials!!! I am FASCINATED by the strength of these athletes! I keep pointing out to the girls the muscles on each of the athletes. I mean, like right now, I am watching the male gymnasts! The strength they have on the rings....WOW!!! We've been watching the long distance runners.....the abs on the runners! AWESOME!!! The arm muscles on the swimmer...I'm JEALOUS!!!
The strength we see on athletes is amazing.....but we recognize it because we can SEE it. What about the strength we don't actually see? What about my former students who just had to bury their 4 month old baby girl, but can still find the strength to get up in the mornings? What about the strength of a friend who just lost their mom and is handling all the preparations. What about the strength of several of my friends who are going through divorces and are still smiling around their kids. What about our everyday strength.....getting up and working out when we would rather sleep, cleaning our house when we would rather watch TV, smiling when we would rather cry.
We all have days where we have to be stronger than people realize; because we are using our inner strength, not necessarily outer strength. I think it's important to show/explain to our kids inner and outer strength.
We all LOVE to receive compliments....so why don't we hand them out more? Compliment people who are strong....let them know you can see it and how awesome it is!
For now....I will continue to watch the Olympic Trials and anxiously await the Olympics! So awesome to see "regular" people representing us!! I LOVE it!!!
The strength we see on athletes is amazing.....but we recognize it because we can SEE it. What about the strength we don't actually see? What about my former students who just had to bury their 4 month old baby girl, but can still find the strength to get up in the mornings? What about the strength of a friend who just lost their mom and is handling all the preparations. What about the strength of several of my friends who are going through divorces and are still smiling around their kids. What about our everyday strength.....getting up and working out when we would rather sleep, cleaning our house when we would rather watch TV, smiling when we would rather cry.
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| My strength......<3 |
We all have days where we have to be stronger than people realize; because we are using our inner strength, not necessarily outer strength. I think it's important to show/explain to our kids inner and outer strength.
We all LOVE to receive compliments....so why don't we hand them out more? Compliment people who are strong....let them know you can see it and how awesome it is!
For now....I will continue to watch the Olympic Trials and anxiously await the Olympics! So awesome to see "regular" people representing us!! I LOVE it!!!
Monday, June 4, 2012
The Truth About Me and Running.....
Okay...here is the truth...I don't love to run....until I have finished. There are days that lacing up my tennis shoes is possibly the most dreaded thing on my to do list....but I do it. As some of you know, I set a goal to run 500 miles this year. So far (as of June 4th) I have run 258 miles, so I am over half way there. I am super proud of this, but there are days I would rather do nothing.
I truly believe that the best way to lose weight and be healthy involves eating healthy and exercising. I know lots of people use a variety of things....but the truth of it is being healthy is a lifestyle change. I am pretty good at the working out part. I would say I workout or run 5 times a week on average. It is the eating part that gets me. The truth...I LOVE food.
When I workout it is mostly in a group setting...which I LOVE because I have other people going through it with me. I have other people encouraging/motivating me. I love the variety, the people, the fact I am completely exhausted and so is everyone else...it is AWESOME!
Running.....that is individual. I mean yes, you can race the person next to you on the treadmill or sign up for various races, but running is all about you and what you can do. Sometimes I feel pretty good about it...I feel like I could run miles and miles...other days, I am forcing myself to get on the treadmill, but the truth is I always feel GREAT when I am done and usually I question whether or not I could have gone further (which means...I could have gone further). :)
I am so inspired by other runners...those that have NEVER ran in their lives starting the Couch 2 5K program, those that complete marathons with disabilities, those that wake up in the morning and immediately start logging those miles.....it's just impressive to me.
Running is not only exercise to me. It is a time to think, I time to listen, a time for me. I feel better after a run....I feel inspired after a run...I feel accomplished after a run.
I have just about 7 more months to accomplish my goal....only 242 more miles to go!! I am excited about this goal and look forward to accomplishing and hopefully exceeding it.
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