OK, so there is no excuse good enough to cover the fact that I haven't blogged in 2 weeks. Basically, life has gotten slightly out of order. I am still 99% in the challenge, just missing the journal entries. I shouldn't have ever made it a rule. I am awful at it. Jenny had a great idea. She emails herself these little messages and notes from the day every day and then compiles them into an entry weeks later. That sounds great, but I don't have a fancy phone and everytime I get on the computer it either attracts the kids attention or I am engulfed into the Facebook/Pinterest hole and next thing I know the kids are awake.
Basically, I have been reading my Bible reading plan 4-7 days/week. I am offering my days to God in the mornings, 2-7 days/week, I am going to bed with a clean kitchen 7/7 days/week and I am yelling at my kids 3-7 days/week. (Somehow, when I put this on paper, it doesn't look like I am doing all that well) I am not giving up, I have 11 more days to kill it!! We are going to the beach and sleeping in a hotel room with two kids for 5 days, we are going out with a bang!!
So, I am going to finish this challenge, I will not give up. Even if it lookds like I am not here, I am. I am here, tired actually exhausted, trying to survive in this house with two kids who are pushing the limits of my sanity everyday!!
Prayers needed!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Saturday, day 75
Somehow, I think my kids are feeding off of my bad mood due to hormones! They are getting on my already crampy nerves.
Deep Breaths...
I have got to snap out of this mood. I have got to realize how wonderful my life is. How blessed I am. I feel God present in my life like never before. When I read my Bible at night, I feel God speaking to me. When I hear worship music, I hear God speaking to me. When I am reading this book about Praying scripture over my children, I am feeling God's presence. When I am reading this book about being a Happier Mother, God is speaking to me about valuing myself, the importance of including Godly women in my life and having a strong faith. But somehow, I still feel blah. at the hospital and at home.
It has got to be the hormones and this next week will bring a brighter outlook!
Deep Breaths...
I have got to snap out of this mood. I have got to realize how wonderful my life is. How blessed I am. I feel God present in my life like never before. When I read my Bible at night, I feel God speaking to me. When I hear worship music, I hear God speaking to me. When I am reading this book about Praying scripture over my children, I am feeling God's presence. When I am reading this book about being a Happier Mother, God is speaking to me about valuing myself, the importance of including Godly women in my life and having a strong faith. But somehow, I still feel blah. at the hospital and at home.
It has got to be the hormones and this next week will bring a brighter outlook!
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Friday, day 74
Today was a little weird, because I worked at the hospital and I never work on Fridays. Needless to say I was a little confused and kept writing the 7th on everything. Which doesn't make any sense at all.
I did however say little prayer and walk into the cable office after work. I didn't bomb the place or threaten anyone. I walked in calm and met the nicest man. the Lord was really watching over me, because I was a hormonal pissed off mommy! Dangerous! This nice man fixed all of my problems and I walked out with what I had 2 days ago for 1/2 the price. Now that is what should have happened yesterday and my day wouldn't have SUCKED!! I picked up my chidren as a happy mom and celebrated with Chick-fil-A. Not a bad way to start the weekend!
I did however say little prayer and walk into the cable office after work. I didn't bomb the place or threaten anyone. I walked in calm and met the nicest man. the Lord was really watching over me, because I was a hormonal pissed off mommy! Dangerous! This nice man fixed all of my problems and I walked out with what I had 2 days ago for 1/2 the price. Now that is what should have happened yesterday and my day wouldn't have SUCKED!! I picked up my chidren as a happy mom and celebrated with Chick-fil-A. Not a bad way to start the weekend!
Thursday, day 73
Actually I only needed to make it though the day without stabbing someone. It was the worst day for me! Between the awful cramps, enraging hormones and unfriendly people at Time Warner Cable, I almost lost my mind! I don't think that I can even begin to explain how bad it was. All I can say is that is ruined my day with my kids and as a mother, that pisses me off! I have nothing left for my husband after arguing with those stupid people for 2.5 hours. I was completely defeated... I just had to pray that I don't kill anyone when I go into the Time Warner cable office tomorrow to cancel my cable. Let's just say it was bad enough, that a margarita couldn't even make me feel better!
Wednesday, day 72
Happy 4th of July! Today I am thankful that my forefathers declared their independence from a country who was forcing their rules of law and religion. So that I could be a part of a country that would give me the FREEDOM to worship my God. "God bless America. My home sweet home!"
And to celebrate we had a roasting hot picnic at Crowder's Mtn followed by naps for all. We went to the pool and watched fireworks just like last night. It was a great end to two wonderful days together as a family.
Tuesday, day 71
Today we had a family fun 1/2 day at Carowinds. It was only 101 degrees outside with 70% humidity, but we survived and even kept the kids awake until after we got home so everyone could get a nap! Yeah baby! That's how you do it!
Somehow, my ability to keep the house "clean" has spilled a bit. Don't get me wrong, in the last 70 days I have not gone to bed but one time (2 days ago) with a dirty kitchen. Just so you know, it sucked to wake up and see the sink full of dishes and know that the dishwasher was full of clean dishes and that it was going to require effort to straighten up. I will have to work on that not happening again. I guess, I have not really cared about really cleaning in the last couple of days because I was too busy sleeping or wiping snot. Just a thought, not an excuse!
Oh yeah, and Matt has basically bailed on our Bible reading plan. He will listen to me while I read whatever chapter from the New Testament, but after that I just read quietly and try not to fall asleep. I mean I understand where he is coming from, Leviticus is difficult to read. Difficult to understand, strange to imagine (throwing blood on the side of the alter sounds really messy) and difficult to stay awake. I am trying to get something out of it... Although reading 2 chapters from Leviticus if hard, I am enjoying a Proverb each night. Some verses apply directly to my life.
* Let not you heart envy sinners, but continue in the fear of the Lord all day. Prov. 23:17
I think sometimes as a mother, you compare yourself to others. I have to remind myself that not everyone around me is walking in the way of the Lord, therefore I need not want to be like them.
Somehow, my ability to keep the house "clean" has spilled a bit. Don't get me wrong, in the last 70 days I have not gone to bed but one time (2 days ago) with a dirty kitchen. Just so you know, it sucked to wake up and see the sink full of dishes and know that the dishwasher was full of clean dishes and that it was going to require effort to straighten up. I will have to work on that not happening again. I guess, I have not really cared about really cleaning in the last couple of days because I was too busy sleeping or wiping snot. Just a thought, not an excuse!
Oh yeah, and Matt has basically bailed on our Bible reading plan. He will listen to me while I read whatever chapter from the New Testament, but after that I just read quietly and try not to fall asleep. I mean I understand where he is coming from, Leviticus is difficult to read. Difficult to understand, strange to imagine (throwing blood on the side of the alter sounds really messy) and difficult to stay awake. I am trying to get something out of it... Although reading 2 chapters from Leviticus if hard, I am enjoying a Proverb each night. Some verses apply directly to my life.
* Let not you heart envy sinners, but continue in the fear of the Lord all day. Prov. 23:17
I think sometimes as a mother, you compare yourself to others. I have to remind myself that not everyone around me is walking in the way of the Lord, therefore I need not want to be like them.
Monday, day 70
So, last night I learned that one of the doctors that I use to work with in the Emergency Department at CMC Main died, unexpectedly yesterday. It put quite the damper on the mood today. I prayed for his family that he left behind. I prayed that he was with Jesus and that his family had peace knowing that he was with Jesus.
It made me revisit my fears that I have people in my life that I love and I don't know where they would be if they died tomorrow. It is such a scary feeling and for some reason I feel helpless. Not because I don't believe that God can change people, but because I believe that God wants me to help lead some of these people to Himself and I don't know how. I mean, why is it that it is "easy" to tell a perfect stranger about Jesus? Or why can you speak so freely with friends or people you know do NOT believe, but you find it most hard to speak to those you love? My dad for example. Why am I not sure about his salvation? Why did he not want to go to church? Why doesn't he "want to talk about it"? Why am I scared to bring it up? Well, I do have the answer to that one. My brother has tried and was quickly shot down. I am afraid that I will bring it up and it will end badly, then ruin the little amount of time we get to share together. Definitely something to pray about...
Although today was a bit solemn, I worked 1/2 a day at the hospital and everyone is feeling a bit better. We get to enjoy the next two day off together as a family. Yay!
It made me revisit my fears that I have people in my life that I love and I don't know where they would be if they died tomorrow. It is such a scary feeling and for some reason I feel helpless. Not because I don't believe that God can change people, but because I believe that God wants me to help lead some of these people to Himself and I don't know how. I mean, why is it that it is "easy" to tell a perfect stranger about Jesus? Or why can you speak so freely with friends or people you know do NOT believe, but you find it most hard to speak to those you love? My dad for example. Why am I not sure about his salvation? Why did he not want to go to church? Why doesn't he "want to talk about it"? Why am I scared to bring it up? Well, I do have the answer to that one. My brother has tried and was quickly shot down. I am afraid that I will bring it up and it will end badly, then ruin the little amount of time we get to share together. Definitely something to pray about...
Although today was a bit solemn, I worked 1/2 a day at the hospital and everyone is feeling a bit better. We get to enjoy the next two day off together as a family. Yay!
Thursday, day 66- Sunday, day 69
I know this is super gross, but this is basically what my last 4 days has looked like. It has been anywhere from 100-105 degrees outside and I have been stuck inside all day with SNOTTY kids. I am not feeling great either. My version of this cold is just making me exhausted. Thankfully, I do not have this (see above picture) problem myself, but boy my children have!
This is all I have. The weekend was miserably hot and we were too sick to get out and do anything. My house would have imploded if Matt hadn't been home to help me with keeping it picked up and mildly clean. Next week will be busy.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Wednesday, day 65
Today was another day at the hospital. I need to find a good name for these days. It is almost like a 1/2 day at my primary job at home, but really it is less than that. Although, I am almost doing an entire days work in 5 hours between 4pm and 9pm.
When I got home we played for a little bit and then we got things ready for Jonathan to skip swim teama nd try a soccer camp. We got him a little soccer ball last night. He was so excited and doesn't even know what he is doing.
Well it was so much fun! Matt was able to get off work a little early and meet us at the field. This little camp is being hosted by the church we are attending, Exodus. They separated the kids by age and Jonathan was learning to kick the ball and run with about 12 other little boys and girls. He listened so well and played and had so much fun!
But, poor Ethan :( He wanted to play so bad, but it was for 4+ and plus, he was so snotty. He cried for Jonathan (or "Jonython" as he says). He kept saying, "I want to play with my Jonython" It was sweet, but sad. Maybe tomorrow and definately next year. As for now, maybe I have a little soccer player on my hands!
As for my Bible reading plan. So, I don't know if it is the plan that we are reading or if Matt just busted my bubble, but he said he didn't want to read the Bible like this anymore. We are reading 1 chapter (or sometimes 1/2 if it is long) in New Testament, 1 chapter starting from beginning of Old Testament and then a Psalm or Proverb. For the last 40 days we have been reading at least 2 chapters in Exodus per night and it is HARD! Reading all the instructions on building the Tabernacle every night is really trying! I think he is burned out! There has got to be a better way to read. Even I almost fall asleep reading about 2 cubits the height and 1 cubit the bredeth. It is hard and I am not retaining or learning anything. Wonder if there are some other options...
Tuesday, day 64
Today was a busy day at the hospital, but when I got home we got to go to the pool. I was excited, because last Thursday Jonathan decided he wanted to learn to swim by joining the swim team. He did such a great job on his first day and was so excited about practice today.
Funny, somehow he didn't want to listen or follow instructions today. With me or anyone else. The coach was a no show at practice and there was only one helper for the 4 year olds. Basically it was a huge waste of time before he ever got started. Then he realized, "I don't actually have to swim or listen. I can just float and she will carry me through the water to the wall." That is NOT what I was interested in watching while I was sweating buckets in the sun. Plus, there were other kids watching him take his sweet time, waiting for their turn. Time to get out!
I had to take a minute and step back. I have promised myself and asked God to keep me true to this promise. I WILL NOT BE THAT MOTHER! You know the mother that forces her children to do sports they don't want to do. The mother that takes all of the fun out of every activity by making it a competition or never accepting that her child just doesn't want to. I want my kids to try new things and not be a quitter, but if they don't like it, fine. If they don't want to go to practice, then they don't play. Plus, I am NOT going to over schedule. I heard one mom friend of mine say her kids were comitted to one sport or activity per semester. I think that is a great idea. We will see how that works.
So back to today: He said he wanted to keep swimming when I asked him to get out of the pool. He was so busy playing with a leaf that was floating in the pool he wasn't kicking or doing anything. I told him that he had don't well today, but that other kids wanted to swim too and if he didn't feel like following instructions and actually swimming today, we were going to do something else. He was about to cry, but I told him to swim or get out and we would have icecream. He agreed and we went to the Belmont Soda Shoppe for a milkshake. God gave us the MOST beautiful day to enjoy the park before we melt later this week. It was perfect!
Hopefully I haven't discouraged Jonathan, but if he doesn't want to swim, he doesn't have to. We will see.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Monday, day 63
This is how this week is going to go! I have the best intentions and I wake up smiling. The kids are rested and so am I. But, somehow, they SUCK the niceness and happy mommy right out of me!!
It may also be hormones...
Either way, my goal this week is to start praying for my children. I was reading on Pinterest about a great book all about praying scripture over your children. So, I updated my Amazon account with a working credit number (since mine got stollen after my last purchase on Amazon.com) and bought the book on my Kindle. I hope that this helps me choose the right prayer for each stage for my children.. We will see.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
TODAY- Sunday, day 62
HA HA!
I can blog enough to catch up and still blog on the exact day!
Today, we made it back to church. I might not have been moved by the music today, but I was inspired by the message. The pastor preached out of Luke 18:1. He pointed out (and I love this), that Luke went ahead and pointed out the summary, before he told the parrable that Jesus shared.
The Parable of the Persistent Widow
I can blog enough to catch up and still blog on the exact day!
Today, we made it back to church. I might not have been moved by the music today, but I was inspired by the message. The pastor preached out of Luke 18:1. He pointed out (and I love this), that Luke went ahead and pointed out the summary, before he told the parrable that Jesus shared.
The Parable of the Persistent Widow
18 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. 2 He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. 3 And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4 For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’” 6 And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. 7 And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
I felt this overwhelming urge to improve my prayer life. I feel comfortable talking to God, but the pastor reminded me to pray like a child does. Or ask like a child does. He joked, by saying that when our kids ask us for something they don't say, "Oh Father, we are not worthy of dessert because we did not eat all of our dinner, but if it pleases you can you bless us with some dessert." Instead, they say, "can I have dessert" or at my house, "Mommy, get me dessert!" It is not that I don't want to be respectful, but especially when I pray out loud, I am sure that I will mess up or sound unsure or uneasy. I should have faith and let the Holy Spirit take over and just talk to God. It is really not that hard.
So tonight I will work on my prayer to God, for myself and my children.
Saturday, day 61
Finally got back into the groove and read my Bible reading plan last night this Matt. Were reading from Proverbs 13 and when Matt read this verse,
Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.
Proverbs 13: 24
This makes me feel like a better mom when I have to punish. Yesterday, Jonathan got in trouble and I sent him to his room and he was crying and I heard him say to Ethan that I didn't love him anymore. I was heart broken to hear him say that. I went directly to his room and should have read this passage to him, but instead, I hugged him and tried to explain how I will always love him, even though there are times I don't like him very much. If only they knew how it hard is for a parent to disciple your children sometimes.
My day was crazy today with a bridal shower and Jonathan's preschool picnic, but they kids napped, had fun and we even met some new people at the picnic. On to tomorrow, where we will finally get another family day.
Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.
Proverbs 13: 24
This makes me feel like a better mom when I have to punish. Yesterday, Jonathan got in trouble and I sent him to his room and he was crying and I heard him say to Ethan that I didn't love him anymore. I was heart broken to hear him say that. I went directly to his room and should have read this passage to him, but instead, I hugged him and tried to explain how I will always love him, even though there are times I don't like him very much. If only they knew how it hard is for a parent to disciple your children sometimes.
My day was crazy today with a bridal shower and Jonathan's preschool picnic, but they kids napped, had fun and we even met some new people at the picnic. On to tomorrow, where we will finally get another family day.
Thursday, day 59
this is the mantra of the day!
Anyway, I woke up to a clean kitchen!! Have I meantioned my husband is AWESOME!
Which is amazing since I went to bed early with a headache and left Matt to feed everyone and do all the bedtime routine alone. Not that he hasn't ever done it before or that he can't keep the kitch clean, but I think he realizes that I am making a effort to keep this house in order and he helped me!
This was an awesome start to a very busy day! I had to take Jonathan to Speech Therapy at 8am ( I was still 1/2 asleep). After ST we had a great play date at the pool with some other MOPS moms. Thankfully the boys were worn out after 4 hours at the pool. They took a great nap and I was able to journal from last week (ha ha, tha tis funny!).
After 1/2 naps I woke Jonathan for his first swim lessons with the SWIM TEAM! He did so good and I was so proud of him! When the practice was over I crammed in some pizza and ran off to my MOPS steering meeting.
THANKFULLY, we were able to kick back a little at this meeting and I had some much needed giggles. Stayed up WAY too late, which doesn't help my constant fatigue, but it was worth it!
Tuesday day 57-Wednesday day 58
Both of these days were work days at my "other" job. When I got home from work on Tuesday, Matt surprised me with this beautiful antique dining room hutch that I love! He had a Daddy Day with the boys all day and they decided to go antique shopping. Somehow, I have convinced my kids that it is fun to go yardsaling and antique shopping. I am really smart and I better enjoy this before they figure out that it isn't that much fun for them. Tuesday night we went to the pool after I got home. Somehow, we are making the very most off of not having any money and running out of groceries. It is interesting to say the least.
Wednesday I ran around like a chicken with it's head cut off at the hospital and then finished off my day with an Ultrasound of my thyroid. That sucked! It was uncomfortable and basically laying upside down for 20 minutes, gave me an awful headache! When the nice girl was doing the ultrasound she started asking me questions that got my mind racing. It was probably a simple question she asks all of her patients who are getting their thyroid scanned, but somehow it started to worry me. The pesky devil on my shoulder was making me worry! I don't worry!! I started thinking that she must be asking me these questions because she sees something worrisome. I actually had to close my eyes and pray for God to help me let go and give it all to Him. Even after I prayed, I continued to repeat, " I am giving this to you, Jesus" over and over until I actually felt better. It is crazy sometimes how the devil can creep in and use your thoughts when you are most vulnerable.
Wednesday when I got home, I was so exhausted, just thinking about how much I needed to do in the next three days made me want to take a nap. Plus, the headache was killing me! I just shut down.
I laid down on the couch and the kids ran wild until Matt got home. There was no dinner, crazy hungry kids running around and I was just laying on the couch. I didn't read my Bible or pray before bed, I just went to bed. I felt horrible and can't wait to wake up to a better day tomorrow.
Monday, day 56
I seriously think that the fatigue is worse. I am just praying that this medicine will kick in soon. I can't keep up with anything. I am blah most days and I have beaten the kids to bed twice in the past three days. I can't keep up with this blog... I REALLY need to get off of this donkey. But, I can't seem to keep up... I need to just jump ahead and get this over with!
Saturday day 54-Sunday day 55
Somehow we blew almost all of our allotted money this pay period. So this made for a creative Father's Day weekend. We went to the pool a lot and on Sunday we climbed Crowder's MTN again. Matt really wanted to go camping, but thankfully he realized that he was the only one that wanted to do that, and he changed his mind (or gave up). I made a little craft from Pinterest for his gift. It was the sweetest little poem with the boys footprints. It was actually a lazy, no money weekend.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Friday, day 53
Today was such a blah day! I didn't get out of my jammies until well after noon. Not because I was sick or didn't sleep well. I just didn't want to. I am so tired. That's not an excuse, it is a symptom. I was diagnosed with Sub-Clinical Hypothyroidism. It explains a lot of my life- tired all the time, weight gain, hair falling out, decreased sex drive, increased headaches and a sexy goiter (which is new, by the way). All of these symptoms have increased recently. Years ago, I thought I had hypothyroidism and had labs done and was told they were normal and my symptoms (mild at the time) were "hormonal". My naive self, believed that this was the answer. In the last 4 years, I had excuses of being a mother and being busy. Once I had some labs drawn last month, I was convinced, maybe I do have a problem or reason for how I am feeling. So today, I started my day with a medication that will hopefully make me feel better. I wish it was instant relief. It will take 4-6 weeks to see any results or changes in how I feel. Until then, I will try to make the most of these days and pray for healing.
That's all I have for today.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Thursday, day 52
I did it! I lead my first Steering meeting as the Coordinator! I was a little nervous, but that was all gone when I spent 3 frustrating minutes trying to open the door to the church. I kicked, pulled, pushed and almost cursed it. then I took a deep breath and prayed that God would help me. OMG, it opened! It was almost as good as when Jonathan called me to his room the other day when he was supposed to be napping and asked me to pray with his and ask God to make it stop raining; it did!
Today, I felt the Holy Spirit when I was sharing how God had spoken to me and is leading me in leadership this year. You know, so people say that you can do anything with determination. I say, you can do all things through Christ!
Wednesday, day 51
I had no idea when I started this Challenge that things would change this way. I am happier; spiritually, as a mother, as a wife, as a friend. I have bonded with my imaginary friend and we are "feeding" each other and leading each other (maybe she is more than me).
Today, wasn't anything special. I was actually at my "other" job all day and came home to SO many ideas in my head about this Steering meeting tomorrow. I finally got to spend some time with my ids after two days a work. We ate dinner together, played together and I even kissed a few boo-boos. I watched my big boy ride his bike like a pro. When did that happen? They just grow up. You go to work and come home and they have grown up!
New rule # (??)- Rise every morning and give God a morning offering. Thank him for these beautiful children and wonderful husband. Cherish every moment and continue to focus on the ORDER.
Tuesday, Day 50
This is funny, but it makes me realize that both my primary job as a mother/wife/daughter of God and my secondary job as a nurse are not that bad!
Today, I was at my "other" job. It was long, but afterwards we celebrated Father's Day with my Father-n-law. It was nice to celebrate and thank him for all that he has taught my husband about being a great man, father, and husband.
We ended our evening (after a great steak dinner with family) on a date night. We went to see the Avengers. I was exhausted, but the movie was great! I enjoyed spending time with Matt, alone (before we both feel asleep). We have been pretty good about focusing on each other and making time for a date night. It is really nice :) I love being together as a family, but Matt and I need to remember that second to God, our marriage is the most important priority. Without each other, we wouldn't have these beautiful children. We wouldn't be parents. I love this man and I am thankful that we can make each other a priority. I wish we could do it more often than 2 times a month, but I am grateful for what we can do!
I HIGHLY recommend date night and strengthening marriages, away from you kids.
Monday, day 49
I wish this was my To-Do list :) Instead...
Busy catching up on the last week of journal entries and can hardly remember what I did today. All I know it that I am so pumped about my MOPS group! I feel God moving through me in a way to make something great happen this year. I am thinking about it all day, dreaming about ideas and feel the Holy Spirit. I feel like this Challenge has made me want to make myself better on so many levels, all the levels.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Sunday, day 48
At church today one of the assistant pastors preached from Matthew 28:16-20. He talked about how Jesus gave us a mission.
16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
The pastor reminded me of several things. That it is my mission to not only tell people and lead people to Christ, but to help them lead a Christian life and love Jesus. To walk like him, live like him, love like him and worship him. I am only doing half of that.
Also, that Jesus is always with you on your mission. As a mom, he is with me when the kids are being bad, when I am changing those awful diapers, when I am disciplining, when I am at my breaking point and at those best moments. As a nurse, he is with me when I feel like I am not making a difference and when the patient's family is thanking me. As a wife he is with me when we are not agreeing about money or when we are spending like crazy. Even when we are on vacation, Jesus is with us. That is a reminder to me that I am taking a vacation away from work, not my spiritual time with God. The point that really drove it home to me was when he reminded me that Satan NEVER takes a day off! So, now is the time to strengthen our marriages, hug our kids and teach them about Jesus and share with our friends, family and anyone who will listen that Jesus is the only one who saves!
My favorite part about this challenge is that my kids are seeing what I am doing and they are doing it too! When we change activities, floors of the house or need to leave the house, Jonathan says, "wait wait Mommy. We need to clean up clean up, everybody clean up." You talk about an answered prayer. My kids are getting it and helping Mommy attempt to keep order in this house. I almost had to kick Matt when he told the kids it was time to leave for church and Jonathan started cleaning up and Matt told him, "we don't have time to clean, let's just go." Oh no! Please don't mess up what I have created. This is a responsible 4 year old. We will just be late!
Well, we made it on time and then we went to Carowinds. It was a huge hit for Jonathan. Unfortunately, Ethan was still too short for most of the kiddy rides. but, we made the most of it and easily blew $50. We are going to have to work on that. We can't spend $50 every time we use our free seasons passes. Next time we are packing lunch and not buying anything. Fun was had by all and the kids slept great, while Matt and I painted the dining room. Which was not fun, but finished.
Wow, what a day. Exhausted!
16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
The pastor reminded me of several things. That it is my mission to not only tell people and lead people to Christ, but to help them lead a Christian life and love Jesus. To walk like him, live like him, love like him and worship him. I am only doing half of that.
Also, that Jesus is always with you on your mission. As a mom, he is with me when the kids are being bad, when I am changing those awful diapers, when I am disciplining, when I am at my breaking point and at those best moments. As a nurse, he is with me when I feel like I am not making a difference and when the patient's family is thanking me. As a wife he is with me when we are not agreeing about money or when we are spending like crazy. Even when we are on vacation, Jesus is with us. That is a reminder to me that I am taking a vacation away from work, not my spiritual time with God. The point that really drove it home to me was when he reminded me that Satan NEVER takes a day off! So, now is the time to strengthen our marriages, hug our kids and teach them about Jesus and share with our friends, family and anyone who will listen that Jesus is the only one who saves!
My favorite part about this challenge is that my kids are seeing what I am doing and they are doing it too! When we change activities, floors of the house or need to leave the house, Jonathan says, "wait wait Mommy. We need to clean up clean up, everybody clean up." You talk about an answered prayer. My kids are getting it and helping Mommy attempt to keep order in this house. I almost had to kick Matt when he told the kids it was time to leave for church and Jonathan started cleaning up and Matt told him, "we don't have time to clean, let's just go." Oh no! Please don't mess up what I have created. This is a responsible 4 year old. We will just be late!
Well, we made it on time and then we went to Carowinds. It was a huge hit for Jonathan. Unfortunately, Ethan was still too short for most of the kiddy rides. but, we made the most of it and easily blew $50. We are going to have to work on that. We can't spend $50 every time we use our free seasons passes. Next time we are packing lunch and not buying anything. Fun was had by all and the kids slept great, while Matt and I painted the dining room. Which was not fun, but finished.
Wow, what a day. Exhausted!
Saturday, day 47
Today I had the urge to take the boy yardsaling again. It was easy to talk them into the idea too. They watched a movie while I drove all over Gaston Co. unfortunately finding nothing! Oh well, we topped it off with a donut and that made it all better.
When we got home the boys immediately walked in the door, sat down and took off their shoes and Jonathan put them away. Then they both washed their hands and started playing. AMEN!! It is working :) We have be practicing a routine. When we come in the house, we sit and take off our shoes, put them away and wash our hands. If it is basically nap time we then start the nap time routine which adds, pee, pullup and in the bed. I am so happy that I don't have to remind them now. It is almost coming natural every time we come home. Now, I just need to find a way for them to not fight while trying to be the first to wash their hands. One thing at a time.
We ended up meeting Matt at the Belmont Soda Shoppe after he got off of work. Great hot dogs and milkshakes while the kids played.
After the kids went down for their naps, I made two trips to Lowe's to pick paint colors and finally came home with paint for the dining room. Thankfully, Matt got called into work for 20 minutes and I didn't have to cook dinner. We picked up Jimmy Johns (Mmmm...) and caught up on DVR Mentalist when we got home. Great end to the day!
I love how easy it is to keep my kitchen cleaned, if I keep up with it during the day. Then before bed I just straighten up. It takes 2 minutes. Not bad. Now, if only the "kitchen fairy" (as my Dad always called it) could come and sweep my floor while I was sleeping. that would be perfect!
When we got home the boys immediately walked in the door, sat down and took off their shoes and Jonathan put them away. Then they both washed their hands and started playing. AMEN!! It is working :) We have be practicing a routine. When we come in the house, we sit and take off our shoes, put them away and wash our hands. If it is basically nap time we then start the nap time routine which adds, pee, pullup and in the bed. I am so happy that I don't have to remind them now. It is almost coming natural every time we come home. Now, I just need to find a way for them to not fight while trying to be the first to wash their hands. One thing at a time.
We ended up meeting Matt at the Belmont Soda Shoppe after he got off of work. Great hot dogs and milkshakes while the kids played.
After the kids went down for their naps, I made two trips to Lowe's to pick paint colors and finally came home with paint for the dining room. Thankfully, Matt got called into work for 20 minutes and I didn't have to cook dinner. We picked up Jimmy Johns (Mmmm...) and caught up on DVR Mentalist when we got home. Great end to the day!
I love how easy it is to keep my kitchen cleaned, if I keep up with it during the day. Then before bed I just straighten up. It takes 2 minutes. Not bad. Now, if only the "kitchen fairy" (as my Dad always called it) could come and sweep my floor while I was sleeping. that would be perfect!
Friday, Day 46
Today started off great! (NOT) I ended up at Walmart before 8am. That is how no ones day should start. I had no creamer and no tampons. I can no go to a pool playdate without either, so off to Walmart we go.
My non-imaginary friend, Jenny came to the house for a little playing before the pool time. It was almost comical to try and have a conversation over 6 kids playing in the same room. Also, great birth control!
I got pumped talking about MOPS with Jenny. She has the sneeky crazy way of making me think I can do all of these great things with our group. I was so pumped, I spent nap time printing stuff to make these cool notebooks for each leadership position. I started thinking while I was making these, about why I feel so commited to making this an awesome year. I think this is why:
I have always prayed on my way to my "other job" to feel like I was making a difference on some level to someone today. I haven't felt that way in almost 2 years. I don't really like my job at the hospital. I haven't really complained because, #1- I have a job and #2- I don't have to work holidays, weekends, overtime, great schedule, flexible bosses, great pay, for doing NOTHING. But that is also the problem. I do NOTHING! At least there are more often than not, these days where I feel pointless at my job. I have worked outside the box, just to keep myself busy, but that is not my personality. To be blissfully happy on my butt, not running around like a chicken with my head cut off (like I used to when I worked in the ED at Main). I feel soemtimes, like if I didn't show up to work, it wouldn't make a difference at all. That really bothers me. SO, I am going to stay at my other job and make the best of it, but when I am at MOPS, I am going to give all of that energy to these women and make this year the best. I am going to ask God to lead me in making a difference in this position. I feel God is leading me into a leadership position and guiding me in His word. I pray that I can make a difference as the Coordinator this year on some level to someone.
My non-imaginary friend, Jenny came to the house for a little playing before the pool time. It was almost comical to try and have a conversation over 6 kids playing in the same room. Also, great birth control!
I got pumped talking about MOPS with Jenny. She has the sneeky crazy way of making me think I can do all of these great things with our group. I was so pumped, I spent nap time printing stuff to make these cool notebooks for each leadership position. I started thinking while I was making these, about why I feel so commited to making this an awesome year. I think this is why:
I have always prayed on my way to my "other job" to feel like I was making a difference on some level to someone today. I haven't felt that way in almost 2 years. I don't really like my job at the hospital. I haven't really complained because, #1- I have a job and #2- I don't have to work holidays, weekends, overtime, great schedule, flexible bosses, great pay, for doing NOTHING. But that is also the problem. I do NOTHING! At least there are more often than not, these days where I feel pointless at my job. I have worked outside the box, just to keep myself busy, but that is not my personality. To be blissfully happy on my butt, not running around like a chicken with my head cut off (like I used to when I worked in the ED at Main). I feel soemtimes, like if I didn't show up to work, it wouldn't make a difference at all. That really bothers me. SO, I am going to stay at my other job and make the best of it, but when I am at MOPS, I am going to give all of that energy to these women and make this year the best. I am going to ask God to lead me in making a difference in this position. I feel God is leading me into a leadership position and guiding me in His word. I pray that I can make a difference as the Coordinator this year on some level to someone.
Thursday, Day 45
I don't know if it is the hormones or the cramps, but WOW everything is getting on my nerves today!
Took the kids to the park today with some MOPS moms and their kids, which was fun. But I couldn't wait to get back on the heating pad, sit around and do nothing.
I have no motivation to pick up around the house, play, cook or anything that does not involve laying on the couch with my heating pad.
Took the kids to the park today with some MOPS moms and their kids, which was fun. But I couldn't wait to get back on the heating pad, sit around and do nothing.
I have no motivation to pick up around the house, play, cook or anything that does not involve laying on the couch with my heating pad.
Wednesday, Day 44
Today is a get back on track day.
We were going to go to Carowinds today with our new seasons passess, but it is raining and chilly. Not a great Carowinds day. Instead we went to Lowe's and then to a very dangerous antique store. We spent money we didn't have BUT we ended up with a beautiful new dining table, chairs, bench, picture frame, coke crate and mirror. We got on a decorating frenzy and it was fun!
Other than that, today was a clean the house, catch up on laundry kind of day.
We were going to go to Carowinds today with our new seasons passess, but it is raining and chilly. Not a great Carowinds day. Instead we went to Lowe's and then to a very dangerous antique store. We spent money we didn't have BUT we ended up with a beautiful new dining table, chairs, bench, picture frame, coke crate and mirror. We got on a decorating frenzy and it was fun!
Other than that, today was a clean the house, catch up on laundry kind of day.
Tuesday, Day 43
Today we are going back to the real world. We have to clean the cabin and pack everything up. You talk about creating order... you have to prepare the cabin to be empty and ready for the next person who stays there, but you don't know how long that will be. Vacuum, clean refrigerator, all laundry done and away, beds made, bathrooms clean, all trash out, heat off, water heater off doors locked. It takes all morning, but is so much easier and has 3-4 less steps in the summer months than the winter. Makes me glad we don't have to do that everyday. Maybe I wont whine about needed to sweep my kitchen before bed tomorrow night.
We packed and left the cabin and decided to go to Grandfather Mtn. It was perfect weather. You could see for miles! We all climbed the steps to the summit and climbed on the rocks for the best view. The boys has so much fun and I can't believe that Matt and I had never done this before. Could have been a little cheaper, but the view was worth it!
We got home to a mess! All of our yardsaling adventures were everywhere and it looked like we left in a hurry. My kitchen looked like a dumping ground for left over stuff. It made me feel tired, just walking in the door! Ugh! I should have remembered how wonderful it felt after we go home from my parent's house and everything was spotless. Well we have one more day of "vacation" to get back on track before Matt goes back to work.
We packed and left the cabin and decided to go to Grandfather Mtn. It was perfect weather. You could see for miles! We all climbed the steps to the summit and climbed on the rocks for the best view. The boys has so much fun and I can't believe that Matt and I had never done this before. Could have been a little cheaper, but the view was worth it!
We got home to a mess! All of our yardsaling adventures were everywhere and it looked like we left in a hurry. My kitchen looked like a dumping ground for left over stuff. It made me feel tired, just walking in the door! Ugh! I should have remembered how wonderful it felt after we go home from my parent's house and everything was spotless. Well we have one more day of "vacation" to get back on track before Matt goes back to work.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Monday, Day 42
Why is it so Cold up here? Seriously, it is June!
Ok, that is better...
So we woke up at 6:15 (That's more like it Jonathan. Wake up the entire house before the sun!). Somehow, the strange schedule and new yard sale toys have created two monsters in this cabin. They are being awful! It isn't 7:30 and they are both crying and been in trouble at least 3 times. I would threaten to not go to Tweetsie, but I already paid for it and I was not going to not follow through and waist all that money, AND be trapped in this cabin with two terrible kids all day!
At least through all of this I am seeing some of my rules rub off on Jonathan. Matt told him it was time to get in the car to go and see Thomas at the Train Park and he said, "Wait, dadda. We have to clean up, clean up before we go." He then started singing his clean up song and picking up all the toys they had scattered all over the living room floor. We were running short on time, but I wasn't about to stop him. Good Job, Jonathan!!
Tweetsie was fun, but it was windy and chilly still. We rode the train, they played in a bounce house with a slide, rode rides, got a souvenir and 3 hours later we were ready to leave and eat lunch!
We picked up picnic food and were off to the park for a picnic. The kids ate and played in the creek at Julian Price Park. It was too cold for me, but that never stops them. They will probably be sick next week, but as long as they are having fun and not whining, we are good!
On the way home they both feel asleep and we were able to transfer them to take a really great nap. Now, that is more like it. Everyone woke up happy, playful and ate a great dinner that I made from food from home. It the first bit of normalcy this vacation. We did some fireworks and ate brownies before bed and the kids were finally back to normal again!
Vacations are great, but eventaully the lack of routine or schedule will get the best of the kids and their horns will pop out!!
Ok, that is better...
So we woke up at 6:15 (That's more like it Jonathan. Wake up the entire house before the sun!). Somehow, the strange schedule and new yard sale toys have created two monsters in this cabin. They are being awful! It isn't 7:30 and they are both crying and been in trouble at least 3 times. I would threaten to not go to Tweetsie, but I already paid for it and I was not going to not follow through and waist all that money, AND be trapped in this cabin with two terrible kids all day!
At least through all of this I am seeing some of my rules rub off on Jonathan. Matt told him it was time to get in the car to go and see Thomas at the Train Park and he said, "Wait, dadda. We have to clean up, clean up before we go." He then started singing his clean up song and picking up all the toys they had scattered all over the living room floor. We were running short on time, but I wasn't about to stop him. Good Job, Jonathan!!
Tweetsie was fun, but it was windy and chilly still. We rode the train, they played in a bounce house with a slide, rode rides, got a souvenir and 3 hours later we were ready to leave and eat lunch!
We picked up picnic food and were off to the park for a picnic. The kids ate and played in the creek at Julian Price Park. It was too cold for me, but that never stops them. They will probably be sick next week, but as long as they are having fun and not whining, we are good!
On the way home they both feel asleep and we were able to transfer them to take a really great nap. Now, that is more like it. Everyone woke up happy, playful and ate a great dinner that I made from food from home. It the first bit of normalcy this vacation. We did some fireworks and ate brownies before bed and the kids were finally back to normal again!
Vacations are great, but eventaully the lack of routine or schedule will get the best of the kids and their horns will pop out!!
Sunday, Day 41
This morning was so peaceful. I woke up at 6:30 and the kids were still asleep. Now, why do you ask, did I get up at 6:30, if the kids were still asleep? I smelled coffee! I can't believe it, but my wonderful husband scrounged around and found some coffee in the cabin! And, made me breakfast! I LOVE this man. He even packed my favorite creamer in the cooler when we left. That is love :)
After enjoying some great breakfast, we all piled into the van and we were off to Damascus, VA to ride on the Virginia Creeper Trail. Matt had packed PB&J sandwiches and snacks. When we got there we got set up with the bikes and the trailer for the kids. They drove us 25 minutes to the starting point and we started our 17 mile bike trip back to the van. We started at 10:45am and it was an unfortunate 50 degrees and cloudy/misty conditions. Basically it was cold and wet!!
We made it about 2miles and I was already taking my socks off and putting them on my hands, because my fingers were freezing! the kids were warm and happy in the comfort of their little trailer behind Matt. the first place that we stopped was an old railway station. They had old historic things in the back of the store and little needs in the front. Including gloves and a bandanna for my frozen ears!
Overall it was a great trip and I would do it again on a warm, sunny day in August! We ate our gourmet meal on a rock in the creek. We stopped about a bazillion times and let the kids get out and I took tons of great pictures. By the time we got towards the end it had warmed up a bit and it was wonderful. The scenery is so beautiful and peaceful. The ride was relaxing. Definitely think we will do that again.
After we left Damascus, we drove to Grandmother Woods house and spend some time with her. She finally opened Matt's grandfather's work shed and let Matt look around and take some things. Now we are the proud owners of some cool antiques :)
It was a long day, but overall it was great! Matt made a great point, the kids were really good considering that they were couped up in a tiny trailer for 4-5 hours with no TV, games, toys. Only to enjoy the scenery and play with dirt or in the stream when we would stop. Maybe, we need to lower our expectations and we will enjoy our times with the kids more. They are only 2.5 and 4. they did great for their age!
When we got back to the cabin and got the kids to bed, we read our Bible reading plan. I had anticipated not having internet, since there is none at the cabin and I wrote down my scheduled readings for our vacation. Therefore, we could just read it our of my Bible and keep up and not get even more behind.
Ah...I feel much better!
After enjoying some great breakfast, we all piled into the van and we were off to Damascus, VA to ride on the Virginia Creeper Trail. Matt had packed PB&J sandwiches and snacks. When we got there we got set up with the bikes and the trailer for the kids. They drove us 25 minutes to the starting point and we started our 17 mile bike trip back to the van. We started at 10:45am and it was an unfortunate 50 degrees and cloudy/misty conditions. Basically it was cold and wet!!
We made it about 2miles and I was already taking my socks off and putting them on my hands, because my fingers were freezing! the kids were warm and happy in the comfort of their little trailer behind Matt. the first place that we stopped was an old railway station. They had old historic things in the back of the store and little needs in the front. Including gloves and a bandanna for my frozen ears!
Overall it was a great trip and I would do it again on a warm, sunny day in August! We ate our gourmet meal on a rock in the creek. We stopped about a bazillion times and let the kids get out and I took tons of great pictures. By the time we got towards the end it had warmed up a bit and it was wonderful. The scenery is so beautiful and peaceful. The ride was relaxing. Definitely think we will do that again.
After we left Damascus, we drove to Grandmother Woods house and spend some time with her. She finally opened Matt's grandfather's work shed and let Matt look around and take some things. Now we are the proud owners of some cool antiques :)
It was a long day, but overall it was great! Matt made a great point, the kids were really good considering that they were couped up in a tiny trailer for 4-5 hours with no TV, games, toys. Only to enjoy the scenery and play with dirt or in the stream when we would stop. Maybe, we need to lower our expectations and we will enjoy our times with the kids more. They are only 2.5 and 4. they did great for their age!
When we got back to the cabin and got the kids to bed, we read our Bible reading plan. I had anticipated not having internet, since there is none at the cabin and I wrote down my scheduled readings for our vacation. Therefore, we could just read it our of my Bible and keep up and not get even more behind.
Ah...I feel much better!
Saturday, Day 40
I started this day off with some thrifty yardsaling. Ended up with some cool things for myself, Matt and the kids. People were basically giving their stuff away. We scored! I even drove Jenny around in our golf cart while Matt loaded up the van for our trip. By the way, yardsaling in the neighborhood in a golf cart is an awesome way to shop!
We were off towards the mountains by 10:30. Everyone was excited and it looked like it was going to be a beautiful weekend! We stopped when we got to Boone and decided to go the Julian Price Park and hike a little. We got out of the car and it was COLD!! It was cloudy and probably only 64 and windy. Changed everyone into pants and jackets and we hiked a little and topped off the day at the Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. Ethan napped for about 30 minutes on the ride to the cabin and Jonathan napped for about 30 seconds! Needless to say, he was EVIL by 6pm. It didn't take long before it was safer for him to go on to bed, I didn't risk going to jail.
THEN... I realized out of all of the stuff that we packed/crammed into that van, I had forgotten the coffee!! Oh, no... I changed my mind, I want to go home!
We were off towards the mountains by 10:30. Everyone was excited and it looked like it was going to be a beautiful weekend! We stopped when we got to Boone and decided to go the Julian Price Park and hike a little. We got out of the car and it was COLD!! It was cloudy and probably only 64 and windy. Changed everyone into pants and jackets and we hiked a little and topped off the day at the Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. Ethan napped for about 30 minutes on the ride to the cabin and Jonathan napped for about 30 seconds! Needless to say, he was EVIL by 6pm. It didn't take long before it was safer for him to go on to bed, I didn't risk going to jail.
THEN... I realized out of all of the stuff that we packed/crammed into that van, I had forgotten the coffee!! Oh, no... I changed my mind, I want to go home!
Friday, Day 39
Today was my MOPS Tea & Testimony day. sidebar- I know that I am loved, but Affirmation really makes me feel it! And today, I felt loved :) I really have a heart for this MOPS group and the potential that we have to really make a difference within each others lives and hopefully reach out to others too! I am really pouring my effort into making this a great upcoming year and getting all the benefits that we each deserve out of each and every meeting. I have some great ideas and some fabulous women on the leadership team, I see great things happening!!
After the meeting, I was going to take the kids to the park before their 2pm haircut, but it started raining. Instead we walked around an antique shop for 30 minutes and I thought of so many great decorating ideas!! Dangerous place :)
The kids took a great nap and I did... NOTHING for 3 hours. I caught up on 4 episodes of General Hospital and laid on the couch. I deserved it or needed it, one. Either way, I felt better when the kids got up and began being productive again.
We are about to leave for the Mountains tomorrow on our Mini-Vacation. Let's see how the rules apply...
After the meeting, I was going to take the kids to the park before their 2pm haircut, but it started raining. Instead we walked around an antique shop for 30 minutes and I thought of so many great decorating ideas!! Dangerous place :)
The kids took a great nap and I did... NOTHING for 3 hours. I caught up on 4 episodes of General Hospital and laid on the couch. I deserved it or needed it, one. Either way, I felt better when the kids got up and began being productive again.
We are about to leave for the Mountains tomorrow on our Mini-Vacation. Let's see how the rules apply...
Thursday, Day 38
Now I remember... This is what happens when you blog 1 week late, you have to think for a second.
This morning I reflected about how I feel God has changed me through this Challenge within my family and friends. I feel closer to God. I am hearing His words come out f my mouth and realized that they are soaked in the Holy Spirit. I have spoke about God and talked about my relationship and the changes in my life (past and present). I have shared the gospel and discussed hypocrisy within Christianity. I have felt led to share and maybe even speak without being asked about my faith. I truly feel led by God to share my faith and it feels good. I am not anxious or nervous that I will say the wrong thing, like I used to be. I feel confident that god is guiding me in these conversations. I hope that what I have said to friends and family is helpful and plants the seed needed to grow a relationship with the Lord.
Ok, so today was a SUPER play date day. I invited my mother-n-law with my 2 nephews, April and her 2 kids and Jenny and her 4 kids to the pool. Yes that equals 10 kids in the pool. You would think that was way too much in one little kiddy pool, but they did really well. Jenny had these fantastic things called Puddle Jumpers and two kids were with a parent in the big pool at some point during the three hours we were at the pool. PLUS, all the kids behaved really well. So, believe it or not I put those puddle jumpers on my kids and they got in! Jonathan got in!! AND let go!! I am definitely getting these things and going to have a blast this summer.
After our play date the kids were exhausted and took a fantastic nap! I think I cleaned or something. (Apparently I didn't blog...or maybe I was catching up and never got to today) I really have to work on that rule, 10 I think.
Tonight is Matt's late night and I have a going away party tonight. So the kids ate before Matt got home and I had dinner ready for him. I met some friends at the National Whitewater Center. On Thursday night during the summer they have music and lots of people out there relaxing and hanging out. It was nice. I probably stayed out a little too late, but I had the chance to share more about by changing relationship with God, family and friends and my home.
SCORE!
This morning I reflected about how I feel God has changed me through this Challenge within my family and friends. I feel closer to God. I am hearing His words come out f my mouth and realized that they are soaked in the Holy Spirit. I have spoke about God and talked about my relationship and the changes in my life (past and present). I have shared the gospel and discussed hypocrisy within Christianity. I have felt led to share and maybe even speak without being asked about my faith. I truly feel led by God to share my faith and it feels good. I am not anxious or nervous that I will say the wrong thing, like I used to be. I feel confident that god is guiding me in these conversations. I hope that what I have said to friends and family is helpful and plants the seed needed to grow a relationship with the Lord.
Ok, so today was a SUPER play date day. I invited my mother-n-law with my 2 nephews, April and her 2 kids and Jenny and her 4 kids to the pool. Yes that equals 10 kids in the pool. You would think that was way too much in one little kiddy pool, but they did really well. Jenny had these fantastic things called Puddle Jumpers and two kids were with a parent in the big pool at some point during the three hours we were at the pool. PLUS, all the kids behaved really well. So, believe it or not I put those puddle jumpers on my kids and they got in! Jonathan got in!! AND let go!! I am definitely getting these things and going to have a blast this summer.
After our play date the kids were exhausted and took a fantastic nap! I think I cleaned or something. (Apparently I didn't blog...or maybe I was catching up and never got to today) I really have to work on that rule, 10 I think.
Tonight is Matt's late night and I have a going away party tonight. So the kids ate before Matt got home and I had dinner ready for him. I met some friends at the National Whitewater Center. On Thursday night during the summer they have music and lots of people out there relaxing and hanging out. It was nice. I probably stayed out a little too late, but I had the chance to share more about by changing relationship with God, family and friends and my home.
SCORE!
Friday, June 1, 2012
Wednesday, Day 37
Today was another day at my other job.
After Matt got home we took the boys to this Soda Shop in Belmont. It was so sweet to watch the boys play together and enjoy the best cotton candy milkshake.
The rest of the night was rather uneventful. I am SUPER tired from an am rise yesterday of 4:30 and then staying up until 1am with friends. This is about all I can say about today.
Kids were good, kitchen is clean, Bible is read. Good night!
After Matt got home we took the boys to this Soda Shop in Belmont. It was so sweet to watch the boys play together and enjoy the best cotton candy milkshake.
The rest of the night was rather uneventful. I am SUPER tired from an am rise yesterday of 4:30 and then staying up until 1am with friends. This is about all I can say about today.
Kids were good, kitchen is clean, Bible is read. Good night!
Tuesday, Day 36
Today was a day at my other job, followed by an evening with my boys. Tuesdays are great, because Matt usually fixes dinner. Mmm... grilled salmon and veggies :)
After my wonderful dinner with all of my boys, my MOPS Steering team (or most of them) came over for our last meeting of the year. Snacks, drinks and great company. Quickly followed by intense girlfriend talk. I tell you what, I am so thankful for such wonderful Godly woman. I truly believe that God has placed me in the part of my life, around these women. I am supported spiritually, mentally and emotionally by women who are going through the same things everyday that I am. I feel like each time we are together, if it is a meeting, MNO or just poolside with kids, God is using these women to mold my life into what He wants it to be.
This challenge is making me a better mother, wife and daughter of God. I could feel the Holy Spirit inside of me tonight. Guiding my words while trying to help a friend in need. My hand was held while I tried to help her through a time when I know the Jesus is carrying her. I am feeling God's presents in my life more and more everyday. I truly feel a change and I am thankful.
thanks ladies!
After my wonderful dinner with all of my boys, my MOPS Steering team (or most of them) came over for our last meeting of the year. Snacks, drinks and great company. Quickly followed by intense girlfriend talk. I tell you what, I am so thankful for such wonderful Godly woman. I truly believe that God has placed me in the part of my life, around these women. I am supported spiritually, mentally and emotionally by women who are going through the same things everyday that I am. I feel like each time we are together, if it is a meeting, MNO or just poolside with kids, God is using these women to mold my life into what He wants it to be.
This challenge is making me a better mother, wife and daughter of God. I could feel the Holy Spirit inside of me tonight. Guiding my words while trying to help a friend in need. My hand was held while I tried to help her through a time when I know the Jesus is carrying her. I am feeling God's presents in my life more and more everyday. I truly feel a change and I am thankful.
thanks ladies!
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Monday, day 35
So, after hiking 1 mile out of the woods to the car, we were stinky and ready to get home. I scrubbed the kids down and we rested for a couple of hours before we were out the door again for lunch and swimming at Matt's parent's house.
Holy cow! I am just exhausted, just remembering all of the things that we did this weekend. Everyone had fun, though. Everyone is tired. We left the kids at Matt's parent's house to spend the night. Matt and I have to work tomorrow. Back to our "other" jobs. The non-fun part of life. You know Matt is right; he wonders why we work so hard and spend time away from our kids. Really wish we could both find great paying jobs that we loved and never miss time with our kids or each other!
Update of Challenge:
Forgot my whistle over the weekend. A little yelling, but I got to pick up my whistle and work on being slow to anger. Especially after my meltdown last Friday.
I am enjoying a rather, clean house. My kitchen is easily tidyed each night. Usually just takes a few minutes. I am working on cleaning while I go. Washing while I am cooking and NEVER leaving dishes in the sink. The laundry is pretty much always running, but I love the smell of my fabric softener and I am enjoying the smell of "clean cotton" throughout the house (encouragement plug to keep laundry going). The kids are even getting better about helping me keep the house tidy. Matt and I are still reading our Bible reading plan on my Kindle. We are several days behind, but we are still trucking.
Holy cow! I am just exhausted, just remembering all of the things that we did this weekend. Everyone had fun, though. Everyone is tired. We left the kids at Matt's parent's house to spend the night. Matt and I have to work tomorrow. Back to our "other" jobs. The non-fun part of life. You know Matt is right; he wonders why we work so hard and spend time away from our kids. Really wish we could both find great paying jobs that we loved and never miss time with our kids or each other!
Update of Challenge:
Forgot my whistle over the weekend. A little yelling, but I got to pick up my whistle and work on being slow to anger. Especially after my meltdown last Friday.
I am enjoying a rather, clean house. My kitchen is easily tidyed each night. Usually just takes a few minutes. I am working on cleaning while I go. Washing while I am cooking and NEVER leaving dishes in the sink. The laundry is pretty much always running, but I love the smell of my fabric softener and I am enjoying the smell of "clean cotton" throughout the house (encouragement plug to keep laundry going). The kids are even getting better about helping me keep the house tidy. Matt and I are still reading our Bible reading plan on my Kindle. We are several days behind, but we are still trucking.
Sunday, Day 34
Today the DEVIL got into my head.
Apparently chuch starts at 9am, not 9:30. I would have nice had we realized this before arriving at the doors of the church at 9:32. Matt even asked me yesterday if it started at 9 or 9:30 and I was sure it was 9:30. Now, we have visited many different churches in the past 6 months, but no excuse! I was awful, the Preacher was already preaching and we were too embarrassed to walk in. Keeping in mind that at this church, you have to walk through the worship center, in front of everyone to drop off the kids. There was no way we were walking in 30 minutes late!!
We were dressed up and the boys looked so nice :( We even had the entire day planned. Well, now we had 2 hours to kill before we were going to meet Candice and her family in Salisbury.
Matt was really disappointed, but we made the most of it and changed clothes and went on up to Dan Nicholas Park early. The kids had so much fun. It was only 100 degrees in the sun and the splash park was broken, but we still had fun. Candice and her family got there a little after 1pm. the kids rode the merry-go-round, the train went into the aquatic nature room. They had so much fun, but the day wasn't over yet.
Naps on the way home, stop to pick up some papers and back out to go camping at Crowder's Mtn. NEVER a dull moment at Casa Woods! Kids were rested when we got there and we were off on the 1 mile hike to the camp ground. We set up camp, made a fire, dinner and had marshmallows. That was all the boys could handle before they were asking to got to bed. About 1 hour later, everyone was asleep, with glow sticks in hand. It was an interesting sleeping experience, but we survived and everyone slept (some better than others). We woke up at 6:30 (what's new ?) and made a fire, breakfast and believe it or no the kids were ready to go home. Non-peacefully, but not miserable 1 mile walk back to the car and we were off to the house.
Wait... The day is still not over, but we can talk about Monday on the next days blog.
The only thing that I didn't like about this day was that we weren't able to read the Bible on the Kindle. However, we did get to all sleep in a tent together under the stars that God gave to us. PRICELESS!!
Apparently chuch starts at 9am, not 9:30. I would have nice had we realized this before arriving at the doors of the church at 9:32. Matt even asked me yesterday if it started at 9 or 9:30 and I was sure it was 9:30. Now, we have visited many different churches in the past 6 months, but no excuse! I was awful, the Preacher was already preaching and we were too embarrassed to walk in. Keeping in mind that at this church, you have to walk through the worship center, in front of everyone to drop off the kids. There was no way we were walking in 30 minutes late!!
We were dressed up and the boys looked so nice :( We even had the entire day planned. Well, now we had 2 hours to kill before we were going to meet Candice and her family in Salisbury.
Matt was really disappointed, but we made the most of it and changed clothes and went on up to Dan Nicholas Park early. The kids had so much fun. It was only 100 degrees in the sun and the splash park was broken, but we still had fun. Candice and her family got there a little after 1pm. the kids rode the merry-go-round, the train went into the aquatic nature room. They had so much fun, but the day wasn't over yet.
Naps on the way home, stop to pick up some papers and back out to go camping at Crowder's Mtn. NEVER a dull moment at Casa Woods! Kids were rested when we got there and we were off on the 1 mile hike to the camp ground. We set up camp, made a fire, dinner and had marshmallows. That was all the boys could handle before they were asking to got to bed. About 1 hour later, everyone was asleep, with glow sticks in hand. It was an interesting sleeping experience, but we survived and everyone slept (some better than others). We woke up at 6:30 (what's new ?) and made a fire, breakfast and believe it or no the kids were ready to go home. Non-peacefully, but not miserable 1 mile walk back to the car and we were off to the house.
Wait... The day is still not over, but we can talk about Monday on the next days blog.
The only thing that I didn't like about this day was that we weren't able to read the Bible on the Kindle. However, we did get to all sleep in a tent together under the stars that God gave to us. PRICELESS!!
Saturday, Day 33
So I have decided that the weekends during the summer are going to totally through our family off schedule. As long as I am ok with no schedule and possibly cranky kids we will be alright.
Today, Matt worked 1/2 day. I decided as soon as we got up for the morning that we were going to go yardsaling. I talked the kids into the experience and off we went at 7:30. We weren't really sure where to start, so we just drove around Mt. Holly looking for signs. After about 20 minutes and turning around, we found one. The kids did great! We all walked around and looked at mostly "junk" at the first two places we went. The kids didn't touch much and even fund a few books for Jonathan. I decided after about 45 minutes that I should have called my non-imaginary friend, Jenny. She is a Professional Yardsaler. So, I did and she was on the same page, already in the car with coffee in hand. We met up and had the best time. We eventually just left the kids in the vans watching a movie and each took turns watching kids while the other quickly shopped. I did alright. Got 5 books for the boys, a toy dump truck for outside, 100 piece puzzle and some picture frames for me to re purpose. Only spent $8!! Jenny, she got Halloween outfits, 2 bikes, clothes, candlesticks... She Killed it!! I have a lot to learn, but we had fun bonding over sales and the kids got to watch a movie. Everyone was happy.
Afterwards Matt came home and we went to my other favorite person, April's house for a cookout. the boys got to play in the kiddy pool and slip-n-slide and we ate the best BBQ! Although we were about to melt, we had fun!
What a PACKED day! No one took a nap, but they went to be early and Matt and I got to spend some much needed alone time together. We were able to catch up on a little Bible reading and even get really confused with the book of Hebrews. It was a fantastic day and everyone was happy!
I need more days like today :)
Today, Matt worked 1/2 day. I decided as soon as we got up for the morning that we were going to go yardsaling. I talked the kids into the experience and off we went at 7:30. We weren't really sure where to start, so we just drove around Mt. Holly looking for signs. After about 20 minutes and turning around, we found one. The kids did great! We all walked around and looked at mostly "junk" at the first two places we went. The kids didn't touch much and even fund a few books for Jonathan. I decided after about 45 minutes that I should have called my non-imaginary friend, Jenny. She is a Professional Yardsaler. So, I did and she was on the same page, already in the car with coffee in hand. We met up and had the best time. We eventually just left the kids in the vans watching a movie and each took turns watching kids while the other quickly shopped. I did alright. Got 5 books for the boys, a toy dump truck for outside, 100 piece puzzle and some picture frames for me to re purpose. Only spent $8!! Jenny, she got Halloween outfits, 2 bikes, clothes, candlesticks... She Killed it!! I have a lot to learn, but we had fun bonding over sales and the kids got to watch a movie. Everyone was happy.
Afterwards Matt came home and we went to my other favorite person, April's house for a cookout. the boys got to play in the kiddy pool and slip-n-slide and we ate the best BBQ! Although we were about to melt, we had fun!
What a PACKED day! No one took a nap, but they went to be early and Matt and I got to spend some much needed alone time together. We were able to catch up on a little Bible reading and even get really confused with the book of Hebrews. It was a fantastic day and everyone was happy!
I need more days like today :)
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Friday, Day 32
This 1/2 caffeine in my coffee crap has got to go!!
Everyday, I am waking up with a headache. And if for some miracle I don't wake up with a headache it will come about 11:30ish when 1/2 the caffeine I had a 7:30 wears off. I have tried to drink more, but I don't think it is helping my calorie intake to drink 2or3 x as much since my coffee is actually 2/3 coffee and the rest flavored creamer (the good stuff) and little sugar :) Mmmmm!
Back to important stuff. TODAY SUCKED! It was so bad that when I initially tried to journal today, I just wrote OMG with about ten exclamation points. It was awful!! Here you go with a rundown:
7:25- woke up and made 1/2 caff coffee
7:27- got in slight disagreement with husband seconds before he left for work
7:35- was so upset about slight disagreement that EVERYTHING the kids did annoyed me
8:00- tried the get kids upstairs so I could shower and get ready to leave for MOPS
8:10- yelled at the kids for asking them multiple times to go upstairs
8:15- got in the shower late and tried to rush. Kids insisted on taking bath
8:35- STRONGLY encouraged Jonathan to get out of tub and get dressed for the 4 time
8:45 found two naked children playing in playroom when I finished drying my hair
8:46- BOOM!!! "We are not going to MOPS at the park today!"
8:48- thought maybe I would go and tried to find matching outfit I wanted Ethan to wear and
stuff started falling out of closet onto my head. LOST IT! Threw some clothes and
started to cry.
This was quickly followed by a text and call April explaining why I wouldn't be there
9:00- proceeded to take everything out of Ethan's closet and reorganize and throw some crap
out (crying kids who are upset about not going to park are confined to their rooms)
THIS is why people drink!
By, I don't know 10:30/11am I got a call from Jenny. My always positive, always happy, lift you up, non-imaginary friend to made a really good point. The kids are feeding off of your upset energy. See Matt got me upset and the devil used that moment to ruin my morning, by making me really pissy with a 2 inch fuse. Yes, the kids were pushing and whining, but nothing unusual. But, boy I reacted with fire and rage. Then they just feed off of that behavior and got worse instead of better. Jenny suggested that I leep them in their rooms and tell them to stay for 20 minutes while Mommy had some quite time in her room. I closed my door and turned on the exhaust fan in the bathroom to drown out the intermittent calls from Ethan asking if he could come out of his room. I prayed and talked it out with the Lord. Then I read, randomly from the Bible. I gave all of my pissyness and frustrations with the ENTIRE morning over to Jesus, and came out of my room.
I then went to the kids room and brought them into the playroom. I sat them down and apologized for my "craziness" and promised that we would have a better day. We hugged and started fulfilling that promise. Duck Duck Goose style :)
(doorbell) I open to the door to Jenny bringing me a donut. That crazy girl brought me a donut cheer me up! Definitely need for sanity not weight loss.
From there, the day got better :) I even decided to jog after dinner when Matt was home with the kids. He thought maybe he need to get the kids away from me after such an awful day and I grabbed my i pod and left. Of course I haven't "ran" since oh... 2005?? It was more like jog, walk, jog, walk, walk, jog, walk, walk, walk walk. But I was sweating like a pig and sore by bedtime. Maybe this exercise will help.
On to tomorrow!
Everyday, I am waking up with a headache. And if for some miracle I don't wake up with a headache it will come about 11:30ish when 1/2 the caffeine I had a 7:30 wears off. I have tried to drink more, but I don't think it is helping my calorie intake to drink 2or3 x as much since my coffee is actually 2/3 coffee and the rest flavored creamer (the good stuff) and little sugar :) Mmmmm!
Back to important stuff. TODAY SUCKED! It was so bad that when I initially tried to journal today, I just wrote OMG with about ten exclamation points. It was awful!! Here you go with a rundown:
7:25- woke up and made 1/2 caff coffee
7:27- got in slight disagreement with husband seconds before he left for work
7:35- was so upset about slight disagreement that EVERYTHING the kids did annoyed me
8:00- tried the get kids upstairs so I could shower and get ready to leave for MOPS
8:10- yelled at the kids for asking them multiple times to go upstairs
8:15- got in the shower late and tried to rush. Kids insisted on taking bath
8:35- STRONGLY encouraged Jonathan to get out of tub and get dressed for the 4 time
8:45 found two naked children playing in playroom when I finished drying my hair
8:46- BOOM!!! "We are not going to MOPS at the park today!"
8:48- thought maybe I would go and tried to find matching outfit I wanted Ethan to wear and
stuff started falling out of closet onto my head. LOST IT! Threw some clothes and
started to cry.
This was quickly followed by a text and call April explaining why I wouldn't be there
9:00- proceeded to take everything out of Ethan's closet and reorganize and throw some crap
out (crying kids who are upset about not going to park are confined to their rooms)
THIS is why people drink!
By, I don't know 10:30/11am I got a call from Jenny. My always positive, always happy, lift you up, non-imaginary friend to made a really good point. The kids are feeding off of your upset energy. See Matt got me upset and the devil used that moment to ruin my morning, by making me really pissy with a 2 inch fuse. Yes, the kids were pushing and whining, but nothing unusual. But, boy I reacted with fire and rage. Then they just feed off of that behavior and got worse instead of better. Jenny suggested that I leep them in their rooms and tell them to stay for 20 minutes while Mommy had some quite time in her room. I closed my door and turned on the exhaust fan in the bathroom to drown out the intermittent calls from Ethan asking if he could come out of his room. I prayed and talked it out with the Lord. Then I read, randomly from the Bible. I gave all of my pissyness and frustrations with the ENTIRE morning over to Jesus, and came out of my room.
I then went to the kids room and brought them into the playroom. I sat them down and apologized for my "craziness" and promised that we would have a better day. We hugged and started fulfilling that promise. Duck Duck Goose style :)
(doorbell) I open to the door to Jenny bringing me a donut. That crazy girl brought me a donut cheer me up! Definitely need for sanity not weight loss.
From there, the day got better :) I even decided to jog after dinner when Matt was home with the kids. He thought maybe he need to get the kids away from me after such an awful day and I grabbed my i pod and left. Of course I haven't "ran" since oh... 2005?? It was more like jog, walk, jog, walk, walk, jog, walk, walk, walk walk. But I was sweating like a pig and sore by bedtime. Maybe this exercise will help.
On to tomorrow!
Friday, May 25, 2012
Thursday, Day 31
Today was full of interesting things.
I took the boys to Plaza Fiesta with a couple other MOPS moms and their kids. They had lots of fun and it was cute to watch them play with their friends.
Plus, we met a really nice woman named Kelly, who told us about her MOPS group in Huntersville. I think Kim, Jenny and I learned some new ideas for next year. It really opened my eyes to some things that can improve and make it even better for next year.
I got really pumped! So I spent the entire nap time researching on the MOPS website. I was full of ideas when Matt got home. We had a nice little dinner and I was off to Jenny's house.
I really enjoyed all 4 hours of wine and girl talk therapy. We talked about some leadership boosting, ideas for Steering next year, homeschooling thoughts and our Order Challenge. Every time I talk to my Challenge Buddy, I feel lifted up. Plus, she has a way of convincing you to do just about anything. Somehow she talked me into being the Coordinator for MOPS next year. then she encouraged me to strengthen my relationship with Christ through prayer and reading the Bible. She motivated me to want to be a better wife, mother and daughter of Christ starting with this Challenge. She almost convinced me that I could actually home school my kids last night. She is so grounded in her relationship with Christ. She is a spiritual leader, a great mother and a wonderful friend. I am so blessed to have her in my life.
I was lifted up after my recent motivational meeting with Jenny. Maybe that will carry me and encourage me to stay strong with this challenge.
I took the boys to Plaza Fiesta with a couple other MOPS moms and their kids. They had lots of fun and it was cute to watch them play with their friends.
Plus, we met a really nice woman named Kelly, who told us about her MOPS group in Huntersville. I think Kim, Jenny and I learned some new ideas for next year. It really opened my eyes to some things that can improve and make it even better for next year.
I got really pumped! So I spent the entire nap time researching on the MOPS website. I was full of ideas when Matt got home. We had a nice little dinner and I was off to Jenny's house.
I really enjoyed all 4 hours of wine and girl talk therapy. We talked about some leadership boosting, ideas for Steering next year, homeschooling thoughts and our Order Challenge. Every time I talk to my Challenge Buddy, I feel lifted up. Plus, she has a way of convincing you to do just about anything. Somehow she talked me into being the Coordinator for MOPS next year. then she encouraged me to strengthen my relationship with Christ through prayer and reading the Bible. She motivated me to want to be a better wife, mother and daughter of Christ starting with this Challenge. She almost convinced me that I could actually home school my kids last night. She is so grounded in her relationship with Christ. She is a spiritual leader, a great mother and a wonderful friend. I am so blessed to have her in my life.
I was lifted up after my recent motivational meeting with Jenny. Maybe that will carry me and encourage me to stay strong with this challenge.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Wednesday, Day 30
Today started with 1/2 caffeine coffee. This was Matt's idea. I guess that means I needed to drink twice as much :) I had a headache by 11:30, but nothing some Ibuprofen couldn't fix.
I was at the hospital working today. That sucked, but when I came home and my kids were rested and happy for me to be home, I realized it was worth it.
Plus, when Matt got home we ate dinner together and went to the pool. The kids always enjoy the pool and it wears them out. I am trying really hard to follow rule #10 and not yell at my kids. I have done a great job, until today. I started wearing a whistle my dad sent me. I mentioned one time that I felt like a referee and the next thing I know I have whistle in the mail. Well, it is coming in really handy. I haven't yelled per say in a week. The whistle is a warning; "Hello I am talking and you are not listening" warning. I even wore it to the pool. Some annoying kids asked me if I was the lifeguard, and I told her it was my "you are about to get in trouble warning whistle".
Sidebar: the two kids a the pool that commented on my whistle were the most disrespectful girls I have seen in a while. They wouldn't listen the man (father, uncle, or grandfather) who was with them at the pool. They blatenly ignored everything he said. They even talked about not listening to him when they were far enough away from him. Matt and I witnessed every disrespectful moment. Obviously he wasn't their dad or "timeout" punishment at home weren't working, because those girls were walking all over him. I would have been seen as beating my children in public if they were my kids.
OK, back to the whistle. So, when we got home, somehow I forgot my whistle and the devil took over my emotions and I was not quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. So I broke my rule, but I am off of that donkey and the whistle is still on. Let's try that again...
Matt and I are about 3 days behind on our Bible reading plan. I am trying to keep up, but I am so exhausted at the end of the day, which is the only time both of us can read together uninterrupted. I can only read on days worth of reading per night, because I am so tired I don't fully absorb anything more than that. I am going to have to catch up. It is a Bible in a year plan, not a Bible in 1.287 year plan.
I was at the hospital working today. That sucked, but when I came home and my kids were rested and happy for me to be home, I realized it was worth it.
Plus, when Matt got home we ate dinner together and went to the pool. The kids always enjoy the pool and it wears them out. I am trying really hard to follow rule #10 and not yell at my kids. I have done a great job, until today. I started wearing a whistle my dad sent me. I mentioned one time that I felt like a referee and the next thing I know I have whistle in the mail. Well, it is coming in really handy. I haven't yelled per say in a week. The whistle is a warning; "Hello I am talking and you are not listening" warning. I even wore it to the pool. Some annoying kids asked me if I was the lifeguard, and I told her it was my "you are about to get in trouble warning whistle".
Sidebar: the two kids a the pool that commented on my whistle were the most disrespectful girls I have seen in a while. They wouldn't listen the man (father, uncle, or grandfather) who was with them at the pool. They blatenly ignored everything he said. They even talked about not listening to him when they were far enough away from him. Matt and I witnessed every disrespectful moment. Obviously he wasn't their dad or "timeout" punishment at home weren't working, because those girls were walking all over him. I would have been seen as beating my children in public if they were my kids.
OK, back to the whistle. So, when we got home, somehow I forgot my whistle and the devil took over my emotions and I was not quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. So I broke my rule, but I am off of that donkey and the whistle is still on. Let's try that again...
Matt and I are about 3 days behind on our Bible reading plan. I am trying to keep up, but I am so exhausted at the end of the day, which is the only time both of us can read together uninterrupted. I can only read on days worth of reading per night, because I am so tired I don't fully absorb anything more than that. I am going to have to catch up. It is a Bible in a year plan, not a Bible in 1.287 year plan.
Tuesday, Day 29
Somehow I got the funk today. You know the "can't get the blah attitude" off your face, funk today.
Maybe it was because Ethan woke up at 5:45 not feeling well and proceeded to try and vomit as well as flop around for 4 hours. He definitely wasn't himself. He actually fell asleep in the middle of the living room floor at 8:15 am while Jonathan was playing in the same room. NOT NORMAL. It wasn't till he almost puked that we realized that maybe he had some sort of stomach bug. After nap he was up and going full speed. Not sure what all that was about, but thankfully it pasted without much effort. Just a lot of laying around and watching cartoons. Thankfully Matt was home and he played with Jonathan and kept him company while I played nurse for Ethan.
I was productive with cleaning today too. I guess since I needed to put away the new glasses I got from Matt's Grandmother's house, I got the CLEANING FRENZY BUG. Watch out! I washed the glasses, then proceeded to clean the cabinet where the glasses would be placed too. I mean take everything out and wipe down the bottom of the cabinet clean! Then I moved on the the cabinet with kids dishes.
Don't know where that came from, but at least two of my cabinets are really clean now. Somehow my floors in the kitchen only got swept and not mopped. Actually, I had a great reason. It seems counter productive to sweep and mop when the kids are outside the door waiting to run in on my clean floors! Eventually it will be done, but not now.
Somehow my cleaning frenzy continued all day. I could not stop. I vacuumed the entire house, did 4.5 loads of laundry and put all the clothes away. Emptied and loaded dishwasher, organized the kids toys downstairs and up. Including rearranging the playroom downstairs. The kids stay entertained with toys and naps while I washed two of the windows in the living room. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME??
Needless to say, I was exhausted by the end of the day and my house looked nice. Matt even took Jonathan with him to the store for groceries while Ethan was asleep. We got so much accomplished today. It wasn't a fun family day, but a productive one. Fun day will be on Thursday :)
Maybe it was because Ethan woke up at 5:45 not feeling well and proceeded to try and vomit as well as flop around for 4 hours. He definitely wasn't himself. He actually fell asleep in the middle of the living room floor at 8:15 am while Jonathan was playing in the same room. NOT NORMAL. It wasn't till he almost puked that we realized that maybe he had some sort of stomach bug. After nap he was up and going full speed. Not sure what all that was about, but thankfully it pasted without much effort. Just a lot of laying around and watching cartoons. Thankfully Matt was home and he played with Jonathan and kept him company while I played nurse for Ethan.
I was productive with cleaning today too. I guess since I needed to put away the new glasses I got from Matt's Grandmother's house, I got the CLEANING FRENZY BUG. Watch out! I washed the glasses, then proceeded to clean the cabinet where the glasses would be placed too. I mean take everything out and wipe down the bottom of the cabinet clean! Then I moved on the the cabinet with kids dishes.
Don't know where that came from, but at least two of my cabinets are really clean now. Somehow my floors in the kitchen only got swept and not mopped. Actually, I had a great reason. It seems counter productive to sweep and mop when the kids are outside the door waiting to run in on my clean floors! Eventually it will be done, but not now.
Somehow my cleaning frenzy continued all day. I could not stop. I vacuumed the entire house, did 4.5 loads of laundry and put all the clothes away. Emptied and loaded dishwasher, organized the kids toys downstairs and up. Including rearranging the playroom downstairs. The kids stay entertained with toys and naps while I washed two of the windows in the living room. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME??
Needless to say, I was exhausted by the end of the day and my house looked nice. Matt even took Jonathan with him to the store for groceries while Ethan was asleep. We got so much accomplished today. It wasn't a fun family day, but a productive one. Fun day will be on Thursday :)
Monday, Day 28
Today was a "other" job day. I am really starting to think that God wants me to be a Mom only and quit this nursing thing. I am feeling more fulfilled at home with my primary job and more frustrated at my "other" job trying to be useful and make a difference. My morning prayer when I leave the house to go to the hospital is to feel like I am making a difference. Unfortunately, more often than not I am not feeling like it even matters if I show up or not. Obviously, we need the money and that part of going to the hospital makes a difference, but when I am there...I am not feeling it. The question is: Has my job changed or am I just feeling more fulfilled at home? If my primary job and the duties that I am missing while I am away are making me not enjoy my time away at the hospital. So many women who worked before they had kids look at returning to work as an opportunity to escape the house and have adult conversations. I thought that way on some level too. But, now since I don't feel useful at the hospital, I feel like I am missing valuable time with my kids, losing time that I could have cleaning the kitchen floor. I have been meaning to clean it for the past several days, but when I get home things are so crazy and rushed. Plus, I don't feel like cleaning, I haven't seen my kids all day. Personally, if I am going to miss the time with my kids and end up with more cleaning a the end of the day, I would rather have gone somewhere and had FUN while I was gone.
Hmm... I guess I am going to have to figure out how to get paid for my job at the house. Then I realize, this is exactly how Matt feels everyday X 100%. Maybe I should complain. I only work outside of the home 2 days a week. It could be worse!
Needless to say, I was at the hospital from 6:50-3:15. Then I left for a staff meeting at another hospital at 7 and didn't get home until 9:30. Watch out! I got to spend a whopping 3 hours with my kids and 20 minutes with my husband today!
I have felt very productive as a mother today... (enter sarcastic laugh) Better luck tomorrow!
Hmm... I guess I am going to have to figure out how to get paid for my job at the house. Then I realize, this is exactly how Matt feels everyday X 100%. Maybe I should complain. I only work outside of the home 2 days a week. It could be worse!
Needless to say, I was at the hospital from 6:50-3:15. Then I left for a staff meeting at another hospital at 7 and didn't get home until 9:30. Watch out! I got to spend a whopping 3 hours with my kids and 20 minutes with my husband today!
I have felt very productive as a mother today... (enter sarcastic laugh) Better luck tomorrow!
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Sunday, Day 27
Today we are in Tennessee visiting Matt's Grandmother Woods and his Aunts and Uncles. We had an oppertunity to go through his Grandmother Gray's house and pick so things for us to keep. Although it was sad to walk though that quiet, empty house, it was so precious to hear Jonathan say, "I miss her so much and wish she could watch my fireworks and give me a hug". The kids were entertained with all the little nicknaks which were now on their level and Matt and I were able to pick some pieces in her house that held some sweet memories.
When we got home it was a mad dash to empty the car, empty the bags, put stuff away and get the kids in their jammies before it was time for my "girl movie night" with April. It was her birthday and we went to see What to Expect When you are Expecting. So funny!! I think April and I laughed harder and more often than any of the other 10 people in the theatre. Great little release of laughter to make me smile, with a great friend, who is a great blessing in my life.
I got home late, but Matt had done his part and put away almost everything. The kitchen was almost spotless and it was a relief to just put my keys away and get into bed. I was too tired to read, plus, I have to get up at 5:45!!
Ooops!
When we got home it was a mad dash to empty the car, empty the bags, put stuff away and get the kids in their jammies before it was time for my "girl movie night" with April. It was her birthday and we went to see What to Expect When you are Expecting. So funny!! I think April and I laughed harder and more often than any of the other 10 people in the theatre. Great little release of laughter to make me smile, with a great friend, who is a great blessing in my life.
I got home late, but Matt had done his part and put away almost everything. The kitchen was almost spotless and it was a relief to just put my keys away and get into bed. I was too tired to read, plus, I have to get up at 5:45!!
Ooops!
Friday-Saturday, Days 25-26
So this idea of keeping up with my journal time isn't really working. Maybe I should have made it a suggestion instead of a rule. I am breaking this rule on a daily bases.
It is Tuesday and I can't even begin to remember what happened on Friday.
Hmm... let me think.
Oh yeah, Jonathan had his 4 year check up. I dropped Ethan off at Linda's house to play with his cousins and Jonathan and I headed off to Matthews. He was so sweet during his check up and did really well. He was 34.6 pounds and 40.5 inches tall. He is getting so big! After his appointment, I had an appointment to redraw bloodwork for my physical. It was cute when he held my hand and looked worried when she stuck the needle in my arm. He told me I was good and we deserved a milkshake. That's my boy :)
We left Friday night to go to Tennessee to visit Matt's family. Of course this changed the everyday schedule and kids were a little off for a couple of days, but we managed and it was worth it.
We were not able to read our Bible reading plan on the Kindle over the weekend, so that was missing and caused me to break rule 1a. (reading the Bible everyday).
Got to get better with this...
It is Tuesday and I can't even begin to remember what happened on Friday.
Hmm... let me think.
Oh yeah, Jonathan had his 4 year check up. I dropped Ethan off at Linda's house to play with his cousins and Jonathan and I headed off to Matthews. He was so sweet during his check up and did really well. He was 34.6 pounds and 40.5 inches tall. He is getting so big! After his appointment, I had an appointment to redraw bloodwork for my physical. It was cute when he held my hand and looked worried when she stuck the needle in my arm. He told me I was good and we deserved a milkshake. That's my boy :)
We left Friday night to go to Tennessee to visit Matt's family. Of course this changed the everyday schedule and kids were a little off for a couple of days, but we managed and it was worth it.
We were not able to read our Bible reading plan on the Kindle over the weekend, so that was missing and caused me to break rule 1a. (reading the Bible everyday).
Got to get better with this...
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Thursday, day 24
I am totally crapping out on my rule about journaling on time. I hate to jouranl at night after the kids go to bed, because that is usually the first moment of quiet time I have with Matt all day. So my partner in the challenge, Jenny, suggested that I blog during naptime about the day so far and then finish tomorrow. Wow, that is a good idea. Thank goodness, I don't have an imaginary friend :)
So this is today, so far:
Drank 2 cups of coffee, before they got cold! Victory #1
House is relatively clean, I even emptied and filled dishwasher before leaving to go to the
Pool with friends and bunches of kids. Since no one drowned... Victory #2
Kids are down for their nap. Victory #3
Time to recharge...
So this is today, so far:
Drank 2 cups of coffee, before they got cold! Victory #1
House is relatively clean, I even emptied and filled dishwasher before leaving to go to the
Pool with friends and bunches of kids. Since no one drowned... Victory #2
Kids are down for their nap. Victory #3
Time to recharge...
Wednesday, Day 23
So I might not be able to journal ontime (rule #9), but I haven't yelled at my kids today!!
It helped that I wasn't around them for 9 hours of the day, but it still counts :) They were sweet as can be when I picked them up from my mother-in-laws house. They usually are when they have spent the night, they miss me!! We played outside when we got home and squirted each other with waterguns. Jonathan gave up quickly. He said that he didn't have his rabbit legs on today and he couldn't chase me fast enough. That was his excuse to get me to run slower and he could squirt me!!
Overall, this day wasn't too bad. Good dinner, late walk around the block and kids in bed by 9.
It helped that I wasn't around them for 9 hours of the day, but it still counts :) They were sweet as can be when I picked them up from my mother-in-laws house. They usually are when they have spent the night, they miss me!! We played outside when we got home and squirted each other with waterguns. Jonathan gave up quickly. He said that he didn't have his rabbit legs on today and he couldn't chase me fast enough. That was his excuse to get me to run slower and he could squirt me!!
Overall, this day wasn't too bad. Good dinner, late walk around the block and kids in bed by 9.
Tuesday, day 22
Today was kind of blah!
Had to fast for routine blood work and was starving before I even made it to a meeting at my other job.
I missed a lot of time with my family on our 'family day". The kids were really good for Matt all day and after naps we took them to Matt's parent's house so they could spend the night. Then, Matt and I went on a date night! Thai food and a chick flick brightened my day! Love my husband :)
As far as keeping order in this home today...Matt pitched in and cleaned the shed. He pulled the big trash can over and CLEANED up. He even swept. He is picking up on my clean house thing.
I even shared my new rules. He was less than supportive with rule #10; quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. His response was, "good luck". I will have you know, so far, so good. I have faith. Faith that I will fall, but He will help me!!
HaHa, take that!
Had to fast for routine blood work and was starving before I even made it to a meeting at my other job.
I missed a lot of time with my family on our 'family day". The kids were really good for Matt all day and after naps we took them to Matt's parent's house so they could spend the night. Then, Matt and I went on a date night! Thai food and a chick flick brightened my day! Love my husband :)
As far as keeping order in this home today...Matt pitched in and cleaned the shed. He pulled the big trash can over and CLEANED up. He even swept. He is picking up on my clean house thing.
I even shared my new rules. He was less than supportive with rule #10; quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. His response was, "good luck". I will have you know, so far, so good. I have faith. Faith that I will fall, but He will help me!!
HaHa, take that!
Monday, May 14, 2012
Today, Monday Day 21
If only I had this epiphany yesterday, my day would have been brighter.
I realized in the shower this morning that I was pouting yesterday for no reason. I was feeling sorry for myself yesterday evening, because it was raining and my day was blah. I didn't get something big or fancy for Mother's Day. I didn't got to a fancy restaurant for brunch or lunch or dinner. I didn't get a pampered day all about me. I did get some sweet homemade gifts that are priceless and precious, but something inside of me wanted more. I did 2 loads of laundry, loaded and unloaded the dishwasher, vacuumed; I guess I was a mother on Mother's Day.
WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?
This holiday is totally made up by the government to stimulate the economy. I should feel loved and appreciated everyday, not just one day a year. I shouldn't need a card or a gift certificate for a massage to make me feel affirmed in my job as a mother. They (people on TV, marketing people) made me feel like I wasn't appreciated yesterday because I didn't get flowers and a dinner at a nice place. The devil made me feel less loved because I didn't get some fancy gift. How dare he!!! I do feel loved. I don't need anything. We have plenty. When you can't think of somewhere to go out to eat, because you are sick of eating at the same places; you probably go out to eat too much! The nicest thought of the day wasn't the big breakfast and the finger paint magnets, it was when Matt came out of the grocery store and handed me a coke, without being asked! That is love and appreciation!
Try and un-affirm that, devil!!
It is amazing the thoughts that go through my brain at 5:45am in the shower. It is quiet. God really spoke to me this morning and I feel like I didn't really enjoy or really take in all of yesterday, when I should be thankful that I have children to have given me a Mother's Day to celebrate in the first place.
Thank you God for making me a mother and giving me these great kids!
Now, on to the rest of the day.
Went my other job this morning and now I am home to a quiet house. The kids are napping and I can think. Think about what God is doing in my life for a second. I feel like God wants some more changes in my life, in regards to my mothering skills.
Rule #10 Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry
The anger of a parent confronted with a child's poor choice shifts the focus from the child's bad behavior to the parent's angry response. Responding to disobedience with empathy rather than anger is difficult, but the reward is great.
Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. James 1:19-20
THEREFORE...
No more yelling at my kids. They are yelling back at me and each other. My bad habit is becoming their bad behavior. This is going to stop NOW!!! (I said this quietly, but with emphasis)
I realized in the shower this morning that I was pouting yesterday for no reason. I was feeling sorry for myself yesterday evening, because it was raining and my day was blah. I didn't get something big or fancy for Mother's Day. I didn't got to a fancy restaurant for brunch or lunch or dinner. I didn't get a pampered day all about me. I did get some sweet homemade gifts that are priceless and precious, but something inside of me wanted more. I did 2 loads of laundry, loaded and unloaded the dishwasher, vacuumed; I guess I was a mother on Mother's Day.
WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?
This holiday is totally made up by the government to stimulate the economy. I should feel loved and appreciated everyday, not just one day a year. I shouldn't need a card or a gift certificate for a massage to make me feel affirmed in my job as a mother. They (people on TV, marketing people) made me feel like I wasn't appreciated yesterday because I didn't get flowers and a dinner at a nice place. The devil made me feel less loved because I didn't get some fancy gift. How dare he!!! I do feel loved. I don't need anything. We have plenty. When you can't think of somewhere to go out to eat, because you are sick of eating at the same places; you probably go out to eat too much! The nicest thought of the day wasn't the big breakfast and the finger paint magnets, it was when Matt came out of the grocery store and handed me a coke, without being asked! That is love and appreciation!
Try and un-affirm that, devil!!
It is amazing the thoughts that go through my brain at 5:45am in the shower. It is quiet. God really spoke to me this morning and I feel like I didn't really enjoy or really take in all of yesterday, when I should be thankful that I have children to have given me a Mother's Day to celebrate in the first place.
Thank you God for making me a mother and giving me these great kids!
Now, on to the rest of the day.
Went my other job this morning and now I am home to a quiet house. The kids are napping and I can think. Think about what God is doing in my life for a second. I feel like God wants some more changes in my life, in regards to my mothering skills.
Rule #10 Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry
The anger of a parent confronted with a child's poor choice shifts the focus from the child's bad behavior to the parent's angry response. Responding to disobedience with empathy rather than anger is difficult, but the reward is great.
Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. James 1:19-20
THEREFORE...
No more yelling at my kids. They are yelling back at me and each other. My bad habit is becoming their bad behavior. This is going to stop NOW!!! (I said this quietly, but with emphasis)
Sunday, Day 20
Today is Mother's Day. I got to sleep until 7am and then I laid in bed for over an hour trying to go back to sleep, but the kids were not actually quiet. when I went downstairs Matt had made me this wonderful breakfast. Eggs, sausage, biscuits and COFFEE! Yummy :) The kids decorated these cute little magnets with finger paint and made me a sweet card with their hand prints. It was a great morning!
We went to church and the pastor read from Ephesians 4. He spoke about actually living the gospel and remembering that you have already been given the gift of salvation by grace. That you can't earn any gold stars for being a better Christian, but you can live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Also reminding me to be completely humble and gentle;be patient, bearing with one another with love. Then the pastor backed up into Ephesians 2:4-10. I love this and it really speaks to everything that has happened in the last week.
4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions —it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith —and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
I really need to hear this today. Last week was so difficult as a true believer and follower of Christ. To hear people say that I don't love others like God loves me. God just affirmed what I already knew today. AMEN!
Although, the message was full of light, the sky was not! It rained all over my Mother's Day, but my children were sweet and my house was cleaned. My husband was home and we were able to have a family day at home.
We went to church and the pastor read from Ephesians 4. He spoke about actually living the gospel and remembering that you have already been given the gift of salvation by grace. That you can't earn any gold stars for being a better Christian, but you can live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Also reminding me to be completely humble and gentle;be patient, bearing with one another with love. Then the pastor backed up into Ephesians 2:4-10. I love this and it really speaks to everything that has happened in the last week.
4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions —it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith —and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
I really need to hear this today. Last week was so difficult as a true believer and follower of Christ. To hear people say that I don't love others like God loves me. God just affirmed what I already knew today. AMEN!
Although, the message was full of light, the sky was not! It rained all over my Mother's Day, but my children were sweet and my house was cleaned. My husband was home and we were able to have a family day at home.
Saturday, Day19
Skip this day, I have no idea what happened.
Matt worked 1/2 day, kids took nap, house was clean and we took Matt's mom out for Mother's day. Oh yea, then we took boys to play putt-putt. that was fun!
Caught up on 2 days of my reading plan of my Bible with Matt. Going on vacation really messed up my schedule.
Matt worked 1/2 day, kids took nap, house was clean and we took Matt's mom out for Mother's day. Oh yea, then we took boys to play putt-putt. that was fun!
Caught up on 2 days of my reading plan of my Bible with Matt. Going on vacation really messed up my schedule.
Friday, Day 18
Thank the Lord for my MOPS friends!!
Jenny is my challenge partner. April is my best friend and one who is listens to all of my nonsense. These women keep me sane and help to make me a better wife and mother. They also encourage me throughout this challenge.
I am sticking to the rules of this challenge, but new rules need to be made. I am going to have to journal everyday, not 5 posts about past days at once. This should be rule #9: Journal Everyday
Let's see when that one kicks in...considering I am writing about Friday and it is Monday!
Jenny is my challenge partner. April is my best friend and one who is listens to all of my nonsense. These women keep me sane and help to make me a better wife and mother. They also encourage me throughout this challenge.
I am sticking to the rules of this challenge, but new rules need to be made. I am going to have to journal everyday, not 5 posts about past days at once. This should be rule #9: Journal Everyday
Let's see when that one kicks in...considering I am writing about Friday and it is Monday!
Thursday, Day 17
Sometimes it is the little things that make being a mommy great. I took the kids to the park today with some friends and then met Matt at his office for a picnic at his office. The kids love to visit Daddy at the office and have a picnic outside in the grass. This led to late naps, but naps just the same.
I am trying to relax during naps and plan for dinner and maybe even fold clothes or pick up a little. Things are going well the last couple of days with this challenge. I am having a hard time actually journaling on the actual day. I try to remember the thoughts and activities of the day, but not as fruitful as it could be. I am about 5 days behind, but I will work harder at carving out time sometime during the day.
On to tomorrow...
I am trying to relax during naps and plan for dinner and maybe even fold clothes or pick up a little. Things are going well the last couple of days with this challenge. I am having a hard time actually journaling on the actual day. I try to remember the thoughts and activities of the day, but not as fruitful as it could be. I am about 5 days behind, but I will work harder at carving out time sometime during the day.
On to tomorrow...
Friday, May 11, 2012
Wednesday, Day 16
Today was an awful day at my "other"job, but coming home to a quiet house and sitting on my couch alone for an hour was MUCH needed!
But it got better when my sweet little boys woke with huge smiles and said "I missed you mommy!" I love being a mom!! Why sometimes do I take for granted all the snuggles, "I love you"s, kissing boo boos, reading books to them and pushing them on the swing. Why do I ever say, hang on...
Because being a mom is hard and not always fun! But no matter how hard my day has been, when I lay down in my bed at night and all is quiet, I usually remember the highlights of the day as being positive overall. Sometimes, I even walk into Jonathan's room (not Ethan's room, his door is closed and squeaky) after he is asleep and he looks so sweet. I kiss him and thank God for him. He is so sweet when he is sleeping. He is not pushing his brother, he isn't fighting, he isn't asking why, he isn't not listening to me. He is so quiet and peaceful. It is all I can do not to crawl into his bed and snuggle him, wake him up and tell him how much I love him. This is my moment during the day, when God shows me so clearly why I should be thankful for all of the other things that come with being a mom. You can't have these wonderful moments without having the crummy ones too!
I am going to really make an effort to cherish every moment of each day. At the end of each day, even if it has been awful, you can't re-do that day. I just look to Jesus and thank him for giving me a day with my boys and my husband.
Hopefully, this challenge will not just strengthen my relationship with God, organize and clean my house, it will make me a better mother and really THANKFUL and proud of what I do, EVERYDAY!
But it got better when my sweet little boys woke with huge smiles and said "I missed you mommy!" I love being a mom!! Why sometimes do I take for granted all the snuggles, "I love you"s, kissing boo boos, reading books to them and pushing them on the swing. Why do I ever say, hang on...
Because being a mom is hard and not always fun! But no matter how hard my day has been, when I lay down in my bed at night and all is quiet, I usually remember the highlights of the day as being positive overall. Sometimes, I even walk into Jonathan's room (not Ethan's room, his door is closed and squeaky) after he is asleep and he looks so sweet. I kiss him and thank God for him. He is so sweet when he is sleeping. He is not pushing his brother, he isn't fighting, he isn't asking why, he isn't not listening to me. He is so quiet and peaceful. It is all I can do not to crawl into his bed and snuggle him, wake him up and tell him how much I love him. This is my moment during the day, when God shows me so clearly why I should be thankful for all of the other things that come with being a mom. You can't have these wonderful moments without having the crummy ones too!
I am going to really make an effort to cherish every moment of each day. At the end of each day, even if it has been awful, you can't re-do that day. I just look to Jesus and thank him for giving me a day with my boys and my husband.
Hopefully, this challenge will not just strengthen my relationship with God, organize and clean my house, it will make me a better mother and really THANKFUL and proud of what I do, EVERYDAY!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Tuesday, Day 15
Life back at home is good!
Even though it started off by getting caught by three Jehovah's Witnesses in my driveway at 9:30 am. Before shower, still in my jammies with my bedhead! I answered their questions, nicely, and preached the gospel! AMEN!
My kids are happy to play with their toys. They enjoyed the normal trip to Walmart, we VOTED and we were able to eat scheduled meals. They even napped for 4.5 hrs! I guess they love their beds like I do!!
Caught up on two days of my Bible reading plan and went to bed a happy mommy and wife!
Good day!
Even though it started off by getting caught by three Jehovah's Witnesses in my driveway at 9:30 am. Before shower, still in my jammies with my bedhead! I answered their questions, nicely, and preached the gospel! AMEN!
My kids are happy to play with their toys. They enjoyed the normal trip to Walmart, we VOTED and we were able to eat scheduled meals. They even napped for 4.5 hrs! I guess they love their beds like I do!!
Caught up on two days of my Bible reading plan and went to bed a happy mommy and wife!
Good day!
Day 14, Monday May 7th
Surprisingly, this day wasn't too bad.
It started off in a hotel in Alabama. The boys had slept really well and didn't get up until after 7am. This was a HUGE improvement from their 5:45 wake up all weekend. No big hurry to get up and get started this morning until I realized that the coworker that was covering my shift at the hospital didn't show up. 5 texts and 2 phone calls later, wide awake and no one at work for me :) Oh well, I did all I could from Anniston, Al. I still have a 6 hr ride home.
Thankfully, the kids were awesome in the car!! We decided to make a detour in Athens and toured the kids around downtown. More for Matt and I, but nice for everyone to take 2 hr break out of the car and walk around for a while.
Since the kids were so great both ways in the car and since Matt can't drive past a firework place without buying anything, we stopped 30 minutes from the house to get fireworks...
Finally after travelling all day...we got home. We walked in to a clean home. Clean kitchen. NO laundry (we did most at my parents before we left), no dishes. All we had to do was unpack the car and unpack bags. We finished quickly and went to the pool! We enjoyed what time we had left with Matt before he was back at work for 4 days.
I was going to end my night with a well deserved glass of wine, but instead I downloaded pictures to my family, read my bible and was asleep before I knew it!
Back to the real world and my challenge at home!
It started off in a hotel in Alabama. The boys had slept really well and didn't get up until after 7am. This was a HUGE improvement from their 5:45 wake up all weekend. No big hurry to get up and get started this morning until I realized that the coworker that was covering my shift at the hospital didn't show up. 5 texts and 2 phone calls later, wide awake and no one at work for me :) Oh well, I did all I could from Anniston, Al. I still have a 6 hr ride home.
Thankfully, the kids were awesome in the car!! We decided to make a detour in Athens and toured the kids around downtown. More for Matt and I, but nice for everyone to take 2 hr break out of the car and walk around for a while.
Since the kids were so great both ways in the car and since Matt can't drive past a firework place without buying anything, we stopped 30 minutes from the house to get fireworks...
Finally after travelling all day...we got home. We walked in to a clean home. Clean kitchen. NO laundry (we did most at my parents before we left), no dishes. All we had to do was unpack the car and unpack bags. We finished quickly and went to the pool! We enjoyed what time we had left with Matt before he was back at work for 4 days.
I was going to end my night with a well deserved glass of wine, but instead I downloaded pictures to my family, read my bible and was asleep before I knew it!
Back to the real world and my challenge at home!
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