I'm amazed at what a little fresh paint can do for the soul.
I spent a couple of hours yesterday (while Mason was napping) and painted my hallway. Not a huge space and probably the only thing I haven't painted in the house since we moved in almost 5 years ago.
The windows were open, the breeze felt so good, the birds were chirping... and I was painting.
It was quiet, the phone only rang once (so glad you called Neely), and the transformation from white to color made my insides feel warm.
When I was finished, I stood at the end and stared down the hall.
Why had I not ever painted it until now? Hmmm???
The hall has significance.
It's the hall that my son runs down as he plays "see you!"
It's the hall that sees the most traffic of any area in our house.
It's the hall that connects each room to another.
It's the hall that squeaks when you step from the stairs.
It's the hall that life happens in.
I don't know why I'm so excited about a hallway... but I am.
It's walls are bare at the moment.
It's walls are wishing to hold pictures.
I have so many ideas and thoughts and words I want to put there... hmmmm.... decisions to make, photos to take.
Paint.
What a difference a small bucket of substance can make.
Thank you Sherman-Williams.
April 30, 2007
April 27, 2007
Is it...
Friday yet??
Not that I’m trying to win an award for “Person to most likely accomplish the most things in one week”… but I think I would win at least 3rd prize this week. {Ronda wins 1st prize for today!!}
Monday:
Make lunches.
Drive to school.
Teach 8 classes.
Bus Duty.
Read 6 resumes.
Wrap 4 birthday presents.
Make 4 birthday cards.
Attend birthday party.
Drive to Tri-Cities.
Shop at Costco for 1 hour.
Load everything from Costco into the car.
Pick up dinner at the Teriyaki place.
Unload everything from Costco from the car to the pickup.
Unload everything from Costco from the pickup to the house.
Put everything from Costco in a huge pile in the kitchen.
Unload the dishwasher.
Start a load of laundry.
Go to bed.
Tuesday:
Make lunches.
Drive to school.
Work on computer projects.
Print teacher’s projects.
Staple raffle ticket books.
Send at least 20 emails regarding school stuff.
Make bridal shower invites.
Work with teachers on projects in the computer lab.
Overwhelming library/tech meeting for 1.5 hours.
Drive home.
Chase Mason around the farm.
Fix dinner.
Fold laundry.
Stare at the pile from Costco in the kitchen.
Watch American Idol.
Fall asleep watching The Unit.
Wednesday:
Answer phone at 6:45.
Discuss life with butcher for 10 minutes and then meat for 2 minutes.
Make lunches.
Coax Mason out of the gator and into the pickup.
Drive to school.
Attend staff meeting.
Try to smile when staff is told about my job changing a bit next year.
Burn CDs for staff while trying to pay attention at staff meeting.
Help make list of qualifications for our new building principal.
Teach 7 classes.
Bus Duty.
Watch 3 boys.
Fold laundry.
Make bed.
Watch 2 boys cause chaos outside.
Get flowers from a friend.
Go home.
Take a 25 minute nap in the pickup.
Make dinner.
Give Mason a bath.
Laundry.
Move the pile of stuff from Costco from the kitchen to the mud room.
Fall asleep watching American Idol.
Thursday:
Answer phone 2 times before 6:30.
Fold laundry.
Unload dishwasher.
Make lunches.
Pack extra clothes and PJs for Mason.
Coax Mason out of the gator and into the pickup.
Drive to school.
Am “person in charge” at school for the day.
Call IT several times.
Send emails regarding the same thing several times.
Buy flowers from the local FFA.
Try to buy milk replacer.
Pick up pizza, salads, and pop.
Get gas.
Talk to cell phone provider about outrageous bill for 23.4 minutes.
Cook pizza.
Enjoy dinner with friends.
Chase Mason and keep him out of stuff.
Try to hang pictures.
Give 2 kids a bath.
Clean up lotion that Mason squirted all over himself and the floor.
Leave Mason with friends.
Sit at Starbucks and stare out the window for approximately 3.5 minutes.
Attend VBS meeting.
Pick up Mason.
Drive home.
Unload bags.
Unload flowers.
Trip over pile from Costco in the mud room.
Fall asleep watching CSI.
Friday:
Make lunches.
Coax Mason out of the gator and into the pickup.
Drive to school.
Teach 6 classes.
Take pictures of kinder kids with their teacher.
Collect money for gift for bridal shower.
Burn CDs for teachers.
Eat lunch…
The day isn’t over yet… hopefully the Costco pile gets taken care of!
I know I've forgotten a few things.... but who's counting?!
I love my life.
I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
… but there are days when I say “what was I thinking?!”
I know I'm not alone in this world of multi-tasking moms/wifes/women... keep your head up if you're feeling overwhelmed... this part of the life we sometimes really don't enjoy will not be here forever... and when it's gone, I know we'll miss it... at least I know I will.
I think about adding another little boy to the life I call mine and I become a little terrified, but I know that God will give me the energy, faith, and support I need when he arrives.
God has brought me this far... why would He leave me all alone now?
I'm going to enjoy the moments and tasks before me - they make me the person that my friends appreciate - they make me, ME!
Thank you Brooke for the email... and this quote:
" I was put on this earth to accomplish a certain number of tasks.
I am so far behind now, that I will never die. . ."
Happy Weekend!!
I am going to enjoy the sunshine, friends, my home and everything else that comes my way.
April 24, 2007
In a Pinch.
How can it be that even though I’ve found myself surrounded by boxes/tubs of maternity clothes I still have NOTHING TO WEAR?!
Being pregnant is beautiful, don’t get me wrong, but there are definitely more “cons” than “pros” when it comes to the wonderful wardrobe I’m blessed to call mine. I’m so very thankful for my “sharing” sister-in-laws, and my girlfriend Susan, but I still spend at least 10 minutes every morning contemplating which pair of pants to wear, which shirt to squeeze into, and… the most pathetic part of my morning is that I spend at least 2-5 minutes looking longingly at my pre-pregnancy t-shirts and jeans and cute Capri pants and wishing they still fit… did I already mention that I am pathetic !?!
Why can’t teachers (pregnant teachers) wear sweats every day?!
On a lighter note, I like to think that I take pride in dressing my child in fashionable, stylish clothing. Even out in the middle of the field I like to see him looking “good.” I don’t like to spend a lot of money on his clothes, and I really haven’t had to yet (aside from the Freddy Couples outfit). I find great deals on clearance or at Costco… and yes, even WalMart.
Most of the time he’s a “mini” version of Ian - wearing a nice collared shirt or cute t-shirt (with very few stains – if any), clean jeans or pants, and a sweatshirt. (I take pride in doing laundry, and doing it well – just ask anyone who knows me!) Mason doesn’t mind getting dirty, but once the dirty clothes are off, he refuses to put them back on again. I’ve trained him to measure the laundry soap, and put a dryer sheet in the dryer. He is well on his way to surviving at college without me someday!
The past couple of days have been disastrous in the world of Mason and his clothing. Friday, he came to the school assembly with the babysitter, sporting his one and only pair of “girl” jeans - as Ian likes to call them… you know… those jeans without pockets in the back. I thought to myself Friday morning as I was getting him dressed – “It’s a nice day – he’ll be playing outside – these jeans can get ruined for all I care.” Of course, I hadn’t anticipated the visit to school. His cute t-shirt was spotted with “who-knows-what” and his “boots” were filthy. The girl jeans completed the outfit with brown knees. I was mortified. I know that it really doesn’t matter… it really doesn’t, but I almost was too embarrassed to claim him as mine. (Did I mention he got a bloody nose that dripped all over these “fabulous” clothes??) Becky, bless her heart, offered to bathe him at her house while I had my haircut. I had no extra clothes, only 1 diaper, 2 wipes, and muddy socks. Thank goodness for WalMart and their terrific deals on diapers, wipes, white t-shirts, jean shorts, and Haines socks. Day over!
Yesterday, I knew we were going to a birthday party after school. I dressed him in stylish jeans, a cute “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream” shirt, and great shoes (not boots). As luck would have it, I once again forgot to pack an extra set of clothes. Why hadn’t I just figured on the fact that my son would have a busy day and get not only dirty, but WET. I pulled up to the babysitter’s house and stared at the small boy waving at me with excitement. His shirt was dirty, but not terrible… and his jeans that I could have sworn I dressed him in that morning were no where to be seen. Instead… he was sporting a mix between parachute pants and clown pants with rainbow colored characters. My eyes darted to the clothesline where I saw his jeans blowing in the breeze… still wet. Why, Lord, why? 10 minutes later, I proudly (sort-of) walked into the party with my mismatched son and only had to say “it’s been one of those days and he’s borrowing those pants!” Some of the moms were probably wondering what the pants were all about, but the kids… the reason we were even there… they didn’t care at all.
Today… I left the house with no extra clothes, but I figured that really, it doesn’t matter what my clothes look like or what my son’s clothes look like, all that really matters is that we’re happy, we’re smiling, and we’re enjoying each and every day in the clothes we’re blessed to have – clean or dirty – we’re still us! Someday, I’ll learn from my husband and pack 3 outfits for 1 trip… and as only Ian would say: “you never know when you’re going to find yourself in a pinch.”
A pinch you say?! Yeah… found myself in one this morning when I left the house with no blanket either… thank goodness for the best daddy who met us on the on-ramp… with not one blanket, but two… just in case of a pinch!
Being pregnant is beautiful, don’t get me wrong, but there are definitely more “cons” than “pros” when it comes to the wonderful wardrobe I’m blessed to call mine. I’m so very thankful for my “sharing” sister-in-laws, and my girlfriend Susan, but I still spend at least 10 minutes every morning contemplating which pair of pants to wear, which shirt to squeeze into, and… the most pathetic part of my morning is that I spend at least 2-5 minutes looking longingly at my pre-pregnancy t-shirts and jeans and cute Capri pants and wishing they still fit… did I already mention that I am pathetic !?!
Why can’t teachers (pregnant teachers) wear sweats every day?!
On a lighter note, I like to think that I take pride in dressing my child in fashionable, stylish clothing. Even out in the middle of the field I like to see him looking “good.” I don’t like to spend a lot of money on his clothes, and I really haven’t had to yet (aside from the Freddy Couples outfit). I find great deals on clearance or at Costco… and yes, even WalMart.
Most of the time he’s a “mini” version of Ian - wearing a nice collared shirt or cute t-shirt (with very few stains – if any), clean jeans or pants, and a sweatshirt. (I take pride in doing laundry, and doing it well – just ask anyone who knows me!) Mason doesn’t mind getting dirty, but once the dirty clothes are off, he refuses to put them back on again. I’ve trained him to measure the laundry soap, and put a dryer sheet in the dryer. He is well on his way to surviving at college without me someday!
The past couple of days have been disastrous in the world of Mason and his clothing. Friday, he came to the school assembly with the babysitter, sporting his one and only pair of “girl” jeans - as Ian likes to call them… you know… those jeans without pockets in the back. I thought to myself Friday morning as I was getting him dressed – “It’s a nice day – he’ll be playing outside – these jeans can get ruined for all I care.” Of course, I hadn’t anticipated the visit to school. His cute t-shirt was spotted with “who-knows-what” and his “boots” were filthy. The girl jeans completed the outfit with brown knees. I was mortified. I know that it really doesn’t matter… it really doesn’t, but I almost was too embarrassed to claim him as mine. (Did I mention he got a bloody nose that dripped all over these “fabulous” clothes??) Becky, bless her heart, offered to bathe him at her house while I had my haircut. I had no extra clothes, only 1 diaper, 2 wipes, and muddy socks. Thank goodness for WalMart and their terrific deals on diapers, wipes, white t-shirts, jean shorts, and Haines socks. Day over!
Yesterday, I knew we were going to a birthday party after school. I dressed him in stylish jeans, a cute “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream” shirt, and great shoes (not boots). As luck would have it, I once again forgot to pack an extra set of clothes. Why hadn’t I just figured on the fact that my son would have a busy day and get not only dirty, but WET. I pulled up to the babysitter’s house and stared at the small boy waving at me with excitement. His shirt was dirty, but not terrible… and his jeans that I could have sworn I dressed him in that morning were no where to be seen. Instead… he was sporting a mix between parachute pants and clown pants with rainbow colored characters. My eyes darted to the clothesline where I saw his jeans blowing in the breeze… still wet. Why, Lord, why? 10 minutes later, I proudly (sort-of) walked into the party with my mismatched son and only had to say “it’s been one of those days and he’s borrowing those pants!” Some of the moms were probably wondering what the pants were all about, but the kids… the reason we were even there… they didn’t care at all.
Today… I left the house with no extra clothes, but I figured that really, it doesn’t matter what my clothes look like or what my son’s clothes look like, all that really matters is that we’re happy, we’re smiling, and we’re enjoying each and every day in the clothes we’re blessed to have – clean or dirty – we’re still us! Someday, I’ll learn from my husband and pack 3 outfits for 1 trip… and as only Ian would say: “you never know when you’re going to find yourself in a pinch.”
A pinch you say?! Yeah… found myself in one this morning when I left the house with no blanket either… thank goodness for the best daddy who met us on the on-ramp… with not one blanket, but two… just in case of a pinch!
April 23, 2007
Is it really Monday?
Where did the weekend go??
My to-do list for the weekend: non-existant.
My stress level: low.
The laundry: done.
My kitchen floor: hmmm… let’s not go there.
The couch: loved.
My sweats: dirty.
The barbeque: used.
One baby calf: herded, and herded, and herded.
The gator: getting charged after a weekend of use.
The stock trailer: clean.
The # of cows/calves at home: very few.
The check-book: balanced.
My camera: charged and ready to shoot.
The beds: made.
Movie watched: FLICKA
The weekend was relaxing.
Ian spent Friday night at the 3 Mile school with the guys and worked there most of Saturday.
Mason and I enjoyed an afternoon/evening with Becky. Thanks sweet friend for being you!
We watched Saturday morning cartoons for approximately 12 minutes… and then my sweet, rancher boy remembered that the baby (bummer calf) needed “juice.”
(Definitely taking after his father with "needing" to do chores to feel "complete.")
The day was off to a GREAT start!
I gave Mason a haircut, met Ang, Dylan & Trey at the nursery, had lunch at the Red Express, and then, took a 3 hour nap… love, love, love Saturday afternoon naps!
Our BBQ Saturday evening: great friends, lots of laughter, a small baby bird, curious boys, great steak-kabobs, awesome salads, the best garlic bread around (thank you Costco), roping practice, bath-time, and strawberry shortcake for dessert. Doesn’t get much better than that!
Here’s to another week of fun, friends, and faith - knowing that God is in control and our lives are richly blessed!
My to-do list for the week: doesn't look too bad, but it does exist.
Had to share this:
Our 28 month old cowboy in the making.
My to-do list for the weekend: non-existant.
My stress level: low.
The laundry: done.
My kitchen floor: hmmm… let’s not go there.
The couch: loved.
My sweats: dirty.
The barbeque: used.
One baby calf: herded, and herded, and herded.
The gator: getting charged after a weekend of use.
The stock trailer: clean.
The # of cows/calves at home: very few.
The check-book: balanced.
My camera: charged and ready to shoot.
The beds: made.
Movie watched: FLICKA
The weekend was relaxing.
Ian spent Friday night at the 3 Mile school with the guys and worked there most of Saturday.
Mason and I enjoyed an afternoon/evening with Becky. Thanks sweet friend for being you!
We watched Saturday morning cartoons for approximately 12 minutes… and then my sweet, rancher boy remembered that the baby (bummer calf) needed “juice.”
(Definitely taking after his father with "needing" to do chores to feel "complete.")
The day was off to a GREAT start!
I gave Mason a haircut, met Ang, Dylan & Trey at the nursery, had lunch at the Red Express, and then, took a 3 hour nap… love, love, love Saturday afternoon naps!
Our BBQ Saturday evening: great friends, lots of laughter, a small baby bird, curious boys, great steak-kabobs, awesome salads, the best garlic bread around (thank you Costco), roping practice, bath-time, and strawberry shortcake for dessert. Doesn’t get much better than that!
Here’s to another week of fun, friends, and faith - knowing that God is in control and our lives are richly blessed!
My to-do list for the week: doesn't look too bad, but it does exist.
Had to share this:
Our 28 month old cowboy in the making.
April 20, 2007
BUSTED!
Caught my wonderful husband with my sweet son sitting on the back of the pickup last night having a father-son chat/drink... all can I say is : BUSTED!
I'm pretty sure that isn't "juice" Ian...
I'm pretty sure that isn't "juice" Ian...
I think we need to wait a few years... like 19 more years!
Day to Day : part 2
9 am Friday morning:
After taking a moment of silence for the horrible happenings at VA Tech this week, the school day begins. I was at a meeting all day yesterday, so my “to-do” list is long, but I’m prioritizing rather than stressing - or at least trying to. I open my email and start jotting notes down about what people need help with and what I need to mark down on my calendar.
I visit with a few people, I fill out leave sheets for upcoming meetings, I answer the phone, I trouble shoot a computer...
There are so many of us that have “these kind of days” and I know I seem to be focusing a lot on day to day things this week, but that is what our days are made of. We all experience things that we weren't prepared for or weren't expecting... and we all figure out ways to deal with it. We all manage our time. We all do the balancing act as best we can. We all have day to day things… schedules, appointments, people, phone calls, emails, calendars, life. I think of my friends and family and co-workers... I know we all experience ups and downs, busy days, slow days, happy days, sad days, peaceful days, hectic days... we all experience life!
9:15 am Friday morning:
I open a message from Ronda… love this girl and her care, concern, and love for others!...
and once again, I’m totally in awe of Rebecca Sowers… (thanks for the forward Ronda)
I read what she writes and I smile.
I read what she writes and I think.
I read what she writes and I live.
She writes:
1) don't try to be someone you aren't. rejoice in who you are and be that person completely...there's a specific reason that you are the way you are.
2) remember that you will never never never ever catch up to your to-do list; it's infinite. So if you're one of those waiting to rest when you're caught up...stop right now! take a deep breath and go sit and watch the clouds for at least 15 minutes. you are not wasting time when you take a break to rest.
3) find a moment to appreciate how beautiful life is. I know this sounds a little hokey but it's oh so true. Does the quality of life matter so much as the mere presence of life? I think not.
Hmmmm…
10:15 Friday morning:
I am going to throw my to-do list for this weekend away. I’m going to. I really am.
… and, I’m going to save the big things for another day… because they are always, always there.
Happy weekend everyone.
Enjoy life.
Enjoy the small things.
Enjoy the unexpected.
April 18, 2007
Day to Day
Today was a BUSY day. I hardly had a chance to sit. But... that is just part of being a teacher.
Some days are crazy busy.
Other days are soooo ssslllloooowwww.
The weeks still seem to fly right by.
I can't believe there are only 35 days of school left (I'm not counting or anything).
I always wanted to be a teacher.
I couldn't wait to have my own bulletin boards to decorate.
I couldn't wait to have my own classroom.
I loved learning - still do - and appreciate a good teacher when I see one.
Yesterday I was able to "substitute" for a few of the classes while teachers met with our great TECH guy JOE!!
I did an hour with 1st grade, an hour with 4th grade, an hour with 3rd grade, and an hour with 2nd grade.
It made me miss having my own classroom.
It felt good to step in and know what to do.
It was natural.
Teaching isn't easy.
Teaching challenges & strengthens me as an individual.
Teaching makes me appreciate the "small things."
Teaching causes gray hair.
Teaching brings a smile to my face.
I'm thankful I have a job that I enjoy.
It's a job that changes every day.
It's a job where there is always something new to learn or try.
It's a job where there are new people to work with, new families to welcome, new projects to tackle.
There are a lot of days when I wish I could be a stay-at-home mom... I guess I'm a "stay-at-home wanna be".
There are days when I leave in tears.
There are days when frustration pours out of me.
but... there are always those days that make me realize that I'm doing what I was created to do.
Teach.
Some days are crazy busy.
Other days are soooo ssslllloooowwww.
The weeks still seem to fly right by.
I can't believe there are only 35 days of school left (I'm not counting or anything).
I always wanted to be a teacher.
I couldn't wait to have my own bulletin boards to decorate.
I couldn't wait to have my own classroom.
I loved learning - still do - and appreciate a good teacher when I see one.
Yesterday I was able to "substitute" for a few of the classes while teachers met with our great TECH guy JOE!!
I did an hour with 1st grade, an hour with 4th grade, an hour with 3rd grade, and an hour with 2nd grade.
It made me miss having my own classroom.
It felt good to step in and know what to do.
It was natural.
Teaching isn't easy.
Teaching challenges & strengthens me as an individual.
Teaching makes me appreciate the "small things."
Teaching causes gray hair.
Teaching brings a smile to my face.
I'm thankful I have a job that I enjoy.
It's a job that changes every day.
It's a job where there is always something new to learn or try.
It's a job where there are new people to work with, new families to welcome, new projects to tackle.
There are a lot of days when I wish I could be a stay-at-home mom... I guess I'm a "stay-at-home wanna be".
There are days when I leave in tears.
There are days when frustration pours out of me.
but... there are always those days that make me realize that I'm doing what I was created to do.
Teach.
April 16, 2007
Having a view
I’m a huge fan of “having a view.” A view gives you perspective. A view gives you not only the chance to “see” something, but the opportunity to really “look” at it. A view is something you as the “viewer” decide what to do with.
We’re all blessed with views. Depending on where you find yourself, your view changes or becomes altered, but there is always a view. When I’m driving down the road, or sitting at my work-space, or washing the dishes, or putting my child to bed, or taking pictures… what do I see? Do I treasure it? Do I really look at it? Do I do something different because of what I see?
Every single day…
I see beauty.
I see richness.
I see growth.
I see color.
I see life.
I don’t always like the view. Sometimes it worries me. Sometimes it seems dark and gray. Sometimes it seems never-ending. But… most of the time… it’s priceless, it’s beautiful, it’s the life I know.
The point?
No matter where you find yourself today, no matter what your view may look like right now as you read this, no matter what circumstance you’ve found your self in… you need to remember that YOUR view is what YOU make it!
I’m encouraged today by my view. I spent time doing what I do most Sundays, but I really thought a lot about what I was “looking” at throughout the day. I spent time really seeing and looking at what was right in front of me. I didn’t worry about what wasn’t getting done or what might happen if I spent some time just “being.” I looked at my view and treasured it… each and every inch of it. That doesn’t mean that I wasn’t frustrated today. It doesn’t mean that I didn’t raise my voice. It doesn’t mean that I’m not tired of the day to day chores that are always present. What it means is that I spent time thinking, observing, and really looking at life.
I challenge you to focus on your view this week. It’s intriguing. It’s interesting. It’s life altering. It has made a world of difference for me, and as I start another week of “life in the fast lane,” I’m going to focus on “looking.” I’m going to watch my horizons for new things, I’m going to see growth in the tasks that lay before me, I’m going to strive to capture the beauty of every moment.
I’m going to enjoy the view.
My view this weekend:
We’re all blessed with views. Depending on where you find yourself, your view changes or becomes altered, but there is always a view. When I’m driving down the road, or sitting at my work-space, or washing the dishes, or putting my child to bed, or taking pictures… what do I see? Do I treasure it? Do I really look at it? Do I do something different because of what I see?
Every single day…
I see beauty.
I see richness.
I see growth.
I see color.
I see life.
I don’t always like the view. Sometimes it worries me. Sometimes it seems dark and gray. Sometimes it seems never-ending. But… most of the time… it’s priceless, it’s beautiful, it’s the life I know.
The point?
No matter where you find yourself today, no matter what your view may look like right now as you read this, no matter what circumstance you’ve found your self in… you need to remember that YOUR view is what YOU make it!
I’m encouraged today by my view. I spent time doing what I do most Sundays, but I really thought a lot about what I was “looking” at throughout the day. I spent time really seeing and looking at what was right in front of me. I didn’t worry about what wasn’t getting done or what might happen if I spent some time just “being.” I looked at my view and treasured it… each and every inch of it. That doesn’t mean that I wasn’t frustrated today. It doesn’t mean that I didn’t raise my voice. It doesn’t mean that I’m not tired of the day to day chores that are always present. What it means is that I spent time thinking, observing, and really looking at life.
I challenge you to focus on your view this week. It’s intriguing. It’s interesting. It’s life altering. It has made a world of difference for me, and as I start another week of “life in the fast lane,” I’m going to focus on “looking.” I’m going to watch my horizons for new things, I’m going to see growth in the tasks that lay before me, I’m going to strive to capture the beauty of every moment.
I’m going to enjoy the view.
My view this weekend:
April 13, 2007
Keys
Mason is infatuated with keys.
He has totally figured out how they work and knows that they are important.
He knows which key goes to which truck.
He likes to carry them around in his “pock.”
He loves to put them in the locks and the ignition. (not such a good thing)
We finally got smart and gave him the keys that are “unknown” or extras and put them all on one ring with a cow tag. He loves them - but still would rather have "our" keys.
The keys haven’t been a problem… until today.
It’s 6:15 a.m. and Ian is searching for his pickup keys.
Mason is the first and only suspect.
Ian is standing in the kitchen… and approaches Mason who has just stumbled out of bed and is still sporting his pajamas.
He gets “eye-level” with our little man and says - where are my keys?
Mason replies “my gadu” (my gator) and runs straight for the door.
He jumps down the stairs, runs around the shrubs and gets in his gator… but guess what … NO KEYS!
As he turns to face his dad – his hands go straight to his face and he does the “Home Alone” look and says “oh no” at least 3 times. (thanks for teaching him that mom!)
It is 6:25 and we are all looking for the keys… searching the yard, the water troughs, the fence line and then Ian notices my hoe laying next to the cement wall.
Mason had dug a hole and buried the keys.
And we thought only our dogs were capable of that.
Wish I had captured it with my camera…it was priceless.
so... because I didn't... you at least get to see pictures with his favorite thing besides his dad - his gator!
He has totally figured out how they work and knows that they are important.
He knows which key goes to which truck.
He likes to carry them around in his “pock.”
He loves to put them in the locks and the ignition. (not such a good thing)
We finally got smart and gave him the keys that are “unknown” or extras and put them all on one ring with a cow tag. He loves them - but still would rather have "our" keys.
The keys haven’t been a problem… until today.
It’s 6:15 a.m. and Ian is searching for his pickup keys.
Mason is the first and only suspect.
Ian is standing in the kitchen… and approaches Mason who has just stumbled out of bed and is still sporting his pajamas.
He gets “eye-level” with our little man and says - where are my keys?
Mason replies “my gadu” (my gator) and runs straight for the door.
He jumps down the stairs, runs around the shrubs and gets in his gator… but guess what … NO KEYS!
As he turns to face his dad – his hands go straight to his face and he does the “Home Alone” look and says “oh no” at least 3 times. (thanks for teaching him that mom!)
It is 6:25 and we are all looking for the keys… searching the yard, the water troughs, the fence line and then Ian notices my hoe laying next to the cement wall.
Mason had dug a hole and buried the keys.
And we thought only our dogs were capable of that.
Wish I had captured it with my camera…it was priceless.
so... because I didn't... you at least get to see pictures with his favorite thing besides his dad - his gator!
~don't you love the helmet!?~
(we are all about being as safe as possible)
April 12, 2007
hope
doing well today - drinking plenty of water, getting a lot done from the comfortable chair at my desk/computer, enjoying the fact that my mind is at peace.
SO inspired by these words from a blog Ronda told me to check out... not just for me, but for all of you too...
"Hope is so beautiful and so real. Grasp it tightly. Your hope will shine it's brightest when it's stormy and dark and you feel like the shadows are just about to swallow you. I know there are many of you facing things right now that you just weren't expecting. Life does that sometimes doesn't it? So when 'it'll never happen to me' turns into 'it just happened to me', cling to hope and know there's a much bigger plan...a bigger destiny!" ~ Rebecca Sowers
so true.
so real.
just what I needed to read.
thank you Ronda.
SO glad that tomorrow is Friday!
SO inspired by these words from a blog Ronda told me to check out... not just for me, but for all of you too...
"Hope is so beautiful and so real. Grasp it tightly. Your hope will shine it's brightest when it's stormy and dark and you feel like the shadows are just about to swallow you. I know there are many of you facing things right now that you just weren't expecting. Life does that sometimes doesn't it? So when 'it'll never happen to me' turns into 'it just happened to me', cling to hope and know there's a much bigger plan...a bigger destiny!" ~ Rebecca Sowers
so true.
so real.
just what I needed to read.
thank you Ronda.
SO glad that tomorrow is Friday!
April 11, 2007
GSMC
Had my monthly dr. appointment yesterday.
Hearing the hearbeat always makes me smile.
Visiting with my dr. is refreshing - he makes me laugh!
Knowing that I'm "measuring" a bit small for how far along I am has me worried - just a little.
Having him tell me that we need to do another ultrasound - just to make sure everything is OK has my heart racing - just a bit.
Contracting while he's "measuring" me concerns him a little.
Contracting A LOT this morning has me concerned - it's WAY TOO SOON - I'm 29 weeks right now!
Monitoring my contractions at the hospital this morning gave me peace of mind.
Getting a nap at 11:00 while waiting for the Dr. was awesome and treasured!
Having Amanda as my nurse was GREAT!
My sister is beyond valuable to me. Her knowledge, quiet voice, calming spirit urged me to go in. Thank you Kirst - can't say thank you enough! xoxo
I'm glad I did. I'm having slightly irregular contractions - most likely braxton hicks - but somewhat frequent. The baby is moving all over the place. I'm know I'm not drinking enough water. My stress level is a bit to high (hard to believe). I'm ok... just praying for peace and strength.
I'm back at school this afternoon - feeling tired, but have peace of mind. I'm drinking water like crazy and doing as little as possible... just making it through today.
Life.
Gotta love it!
(had to share this picture)
I like the light.
I like glow.
I like that it captured "mason."
Hearing the hearbeat always makes me smile.
Visiting with my dr. is refreshing - he makes me laugh!
Knowing that I'm "measuring" a bit small for how far along I am has me worried - just a little.
Having him tell me that we need to do another ultrasound - just to make sure everything is OK has my heart racing - just a bit.
Contracting while he's "measuring" me concerns him a little.
Contracting A LOT this morning has me concerned - it's WAY TOO SOON - I'm 29 weeks right now!
Monitoring my contractions at the hospital this morning gave me peace of mind.
Getting a nap at 11:00 while waiting for the Dr. was awesome and treasured!
Having Amanda as my nurse was GREAT!
My sister is beyond valuable to me. Her knowledge, quiet voice, calming spirit urged me to go in. Thank you Kirst - can't say thank you enough! xoxo
I'm glad I did. I'm having slightly irregular contractions - most likely braxton hicks - but somewhat frequent. The baby is moving all over the place. I'm know I'm not drinking enough water. My stress level is a bit to high (hard to believe). I'm ok... just praying for peace and strength.
I'm back at school this afternoon - feeling tired, but have peace of mind. I'm drinking water like crazy and doing as little as possible... just making it through today.
Life.
Gotta love it!
(had to share this picture)
I like the light.
I like glow.
I like that it captured "mason."
April 10, 2007
Numbers
DONE:
1 meeting attended – minutes typed and sent to other members.
1 grant received from HEF – Yeah!!
63 pieces of popcorn dumped in the backseat of the pickup.
23 miles driven home.
1 upset child who wanted to play outside.
1 cold and tired mommy who didn’t want to play outside.
2 loads of laundry done… then the washing machine broke.
1 load of dishes – washed, unloaded, and put away.
2 sets of sheets changed – but not washed (see above)
2 sausage and pineapple calzones – cooked and eaten right up!
12 pairs of shoes picked up and thrown into the closet.
6 pairs of jeans hung up to dry
10 books stacked back up on Mason’s shelf after “story time.”
1 diaper changed.
1 IPod wiped off after toddler hands “loved” it.
4 phone calls made.
1 bag of popcorn popped – love microwave popcorn!
5 bills paid.
4 steaks set out to thaw.
2 heads on pillows by 8:30… 1 head on the pillow by 10:00.
TO DO:
1 phone call to the accountant.
1 phone call to SEARS.
453 kids to interact with.
490 smiles to give.
3 liters of water to drink.
1 sandwich to eat.
5 starburst to enjoy.
1 Dr. appointment.
1 heartbeat to hear.
2 gallons of milk to buy.
23 miles to drive.
1 dinner to fix.
1 table to set.
4 friends for dinner.
2 feet to put up.
1 American Idol to watch.
Day Over! (hopefully)
1 meeting attended – minutes typed and sent to other members.
1 grant received from HEF – Yeah!!
63 pieces of popcorn dumped in the backseat of the pickup.
23 miles driven home.
1 upset child who wanted to play outside.
1 cold and tired mommy who didn’t want to play outside.
2 loads of laundry done… then the washing machine broke.
1 load of dishes – washed, unloaded, and put away.
2 sets of sheets changed – but not washed (see above)
2 sausage and pineapple calzones – cooked and eaten right up!
12 pairs of shoes picked up and thrown into the closet.
6 pairs of jeans hung up to dry
10 books stacked back up on Mason’s shelf after “story time.”
1 diaper changed.
1 IPod wiped off after toddler hands “loved” it.
4 phone calls made.
1 bag of popcorn popped – love microwave popcorn!
5 bills paid.
4 steaks set out to thaw.
2 heads on pillows by 8:30… 1 head on the pillow by 10:00.
TO DO:
1 phone call to the accountant.
1 phone call to SEARS.
453 kids to interact with.
490 smiles to give.
3 liters of water to drink.
1 sandwich to eat.
5 starburst to enjoy.
1 Dr. appointment.
1 heartbeat to hear.
2 gallons of milk to buy.
23 miles to drive.
1 dinner to fix.
1 table to set.
4 friends for dinner.
2 feet to put up.
1 American Idol to watch.
Day Over! (hopefully)
The Future Freddy Couples
Mason IS going to be a golfer.
He has NO choice.
He already has the LOOK!
He has NO choice.
He already has the LOOK!
Watch out Augusta National - Here comes Mason!
April 9, 2007
Life
I'm struggling today.... mostly with time management. Why do all the things that I love to do take time? All the good things that I am involved in or want to be involved in, require time - which I don't seem to have a lot of lately. My role as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend... they are barely managable. I'm at a loss of how to get more TIME.
I would love to pick Mason up today and head home to spend time playing with his new Easter presents.
I would love to stay in town to meet with some of the greatest people I know that are in my care group at church.
I would love to go to MOPS tonight and hear Rebecca speak.
I would love to not have 2 meetings to attend before 6:00.
Will I ever reach the "balance" I strive for? Why does everything happen all at once?
I was close to home last night around 6 pm. I knew the house would be needing a quick go-over, dishes would need to be loaded or unloaded from the dishwasher, laundry would need to be folded and put away.
I love my husband - I really, really do, but sometimes I wish he was my wife.
He had been busy all weekend.
He had barely found time to sleep.
A piece of his thumb is missing - it looks horrible, so I can't even imagine how it feels.
I didn't expect things to be perfect - I knew they would need my attention. My role in our marriage and the success of "us" depends greatly on each of us doing what we do best.
I take care of the inside, he takes care of the outside.
I had been gone and I knew there were things that I would have to do to function well this week. I also know that plans change and I am blessed with a "flexible" personality. Praise God!
I was close to home... less than 20 miles... and plans changed.
Enjoying a second Easter dinner with family was unexpected and wonderful.
Arriving home at 9:00 rather than 6:00 was ok.... but exhausting.
The dinner was totally worth it - thank you Donna for everything - it was delicious... and better yet, I didn't have to cook!
...but ... my house, my time, my stuff... it didn't happen... and so, the things that I'm wishing I had time to do are going to take back burner tonight.
My mind, my body, my home... that is what needs me and my time tonight.
The weekend was eventful and seemed to be "over" before it even had a chance to start. I'm exhausted today - completely and totally worn out... not a good sign for a Monday, but seem to have more energy now (4:00 p.m.) than I did this morning (6:00 a.m.).
The weekend was spent hunting Easter eggs, playing on some of the coolest wooden toys I've ever seen, hanging out with Kirsten & Steve, shopping at the Motherhood store (I seem to be growing by the minute), and enjoying Papa and Mor-Mor's (means grandma in Swedish) wonderful home. We loved every minute of it and can't wait to go back.
I would love to pick Mason up today and head home to spend time playing with his new Easter presents.
I would love to stay in town to meet with some of the greatest people I know that are in my care group at church.
I would love to go to MOPS tonight and hear Rebecca speak.
I would love to not have 2 meetings to attend before 6:00.
Will I ever reach the "balance" I strive for? Why does everything happen all at once?
I was close to home last night around 6 pm. I knew the house would be needing a quick go-over, dishes would need to be loaded or unloaded from the dishwasher, laundry would need to be folded and put away.
I love my husband - I really, really do, but sometimes I wish he was my wife.
He had been busy all weekend.
He had barely found time to sleep.
A piece of his thumb is missing - it looks horrible, so I can't even imagine how it feels.
I didn't expect things to be perfect - I knew they would need my attention. My role in our marriage and the success of "us" depends greatly on each of us doing what we do best.
I take care of the inside, he takes care of the outside.
I had been gone and I knew there were things that I would have to do to function well this week. I also know that plans change and I am blessed with a "flexible" personality. Praise God!
I was close to home... less than 20 miles... and plans changed.
Enjoying a second Easter dinner with family was unexpected and wonderful.
Arriving home at 9:00 rather than 6:00 was ok.... but exhausting.
The dinner was totally worth it - thank you Donna for everything - it was delicious... and better yet, I didn't have to cook!
...but ... my house, my time, my stuff... it didn't happen... and so, the things that I'm wishing I had time to do are going to take back burner tonight.
My mind, my body, my home... that is what needs me and my time tonight.
The weekend was eventful and seemed to be "over" before it even had a chance to start. I'm exhausted today - completely and totally worn out... not a good sign for a Monday, but seem to have more energy now (4:00 p.m.) than I did this morning (6:00 a.m.).
The weekend was spent hunting Easter eggs, playing on some of the coolest wooden toys I've ever seen, hanging out with Kirsten & Steve, shopping at the Motherhood store (I seem to be growing by the minute), and enjoying Papa and Mor-Mor's (means grandma in Swedish) wonderful home. We loved every minute of it and can't wait to go back.
April 6, 2007
Spring
I love spring.
I love when my tulips pop open and the blossoms on the apricot tree start to open up.
I came home yesterday... the lawn was freshly mowed, the flowers were open - enjoying the sunshine, the colors were amazing! I felt so much love and gratitude as I sat in my pickup staring at my home.
Mason & I played outside for a while... then loaded up and headed to the vet. with Ian. I know that we have to be one of there best customers - not such a good thing - but thankful for each of them and the great friends they have been during the past few years.
Mason helped herd the bulls into the pen at the vet. with his own sorting stick and then played in the fenced area in the back for a good hour. I told Ian that I needed a small, fenced area like that at our house... it would probably save us a lot of money in the end... and I KNOW there wouldn't be as many trips to the Emergency Room.
Life is busy. The house is picked-up, but not "clean." I have the tax info sent to the accountant (nothing like waiting until the last minute). The calves are growing. The wheat is beautiful. The day to day chores are still there... what would life be like without them? The water is on. The grass is getting taller by the day. It's spring.
Mason & I are headed to my parents for the weekend.
Ian is A-Iing the registered cows and hauling pairs to spring pasture. (YAH!)
I wish we could all be together... but life just doesn't always work the way I think it should most of the time... and rather than be bitter - I've chosen to smile, look up, understand - even when I really don't, and be thankful.
It's Easter!!
Jesus came into this world before we were living in it;
He gave His life before we had ever committed a sin...
If He did that much for us before we were born,
Think of all He desires to bless us with now that we are here!
~ Roy Lessin ~
May your Easter be a time of fully enjoying His gift,
His blessings and His love for you!
April 5, 2007
The Tide Pool
During our visit to the beach, Mason LOVED his first trip to the aquarium. He enjoyed watching the sea life, watching the people, and loved, loved, loved the WATER! I was pretty happy with how well he was following directions - (for the most part)- but his indepence kept "shining" through. Surprise, surprise.
No mommy - walk!?
No mommy - water!?
No mommy - run!?
I was exhausted 30 minutes into the trip... but thanks to Bryn, Josh, Leslie & Morgan... we made it... well, almost...
How is it that just when you think you have control... you don't?
Why did I think that the rocks were safe? Had I forgotten what my son is/was capable of?
We were headed toward the birds... and then... Mason spotted the WATER in the tide pool. I followed close behind... but not close enough. Before any of us realized what was happening - Mason was up on the rocks, climbing, and then falling... straight into the pool. Josh and I both scrambled as fast as we could to get him out. He was soaked - his rubber boots were full of water, his pants were dripping, and he was screaming. Fun times!!
I had thought ahead and packed extra pants, but forgot extra shoes and socks. Needless to say - we headed to the pickup and spent some time "calming down."
I purchased a shirt for Mason on the way home... it says...
I DO ALL MY OWN STUNTS
Love that boy. Love the adventure that comes with him wherever he goes.
Love life... what else can you do but love it!
No mommy - walk!?
No mommy - water!?
No mommy - run!?
I was exhausted 30 minutes into the trip... but thanks to Bryn, Josh, Leslie & Morgan... we made it... well, almost...
How is it that just when you think you have control... you don't?
Why did I think that the rocks were safe? Had I forgotten what my son is/was capable of?
We were headed toward the birds... and then... Mason spotted the WATER in the tide pool. I followed close behind... but not close enough. Before any of us realized what was happening - Mason was up on the rocks, climbing, and then falling... straight into the pool. Josh and I both scrambled as fast as we could to get him out. He was soaked - his rubber boots were full of water, his pants were dripping, and he was screaming. Fun times!!
I had thought ahead and packed extra pants, but forgot extra shoes and socks. Needless to say - we headed to the pickup and spent some time "calming down."
I purchased a shirt for Mason on the way home... it says...
I DO ALL MY OWN STUNTS
Love that boy. Love the adventure that comes with him wherever he goes.
Love life... what else can you do but love it!
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