"Time flies" or "enjoy every second". I used to get annoyed by adults telling me this all the time. Now I totally understand what they were saying. Did I take the advice of enjoying every second seriously? No, I didn't realize they really meant it, until it was too late.
Today was Back To School day. All three of my kids started school.
One a senior...I got a little teary-eyed when I had him pose by the door with his back pack on. I had to bribe him and as the words left my mouth...it hit me. "this is the last time you'll have to do this". OH WOW! How did this day come?!
My daughter is now a sophomore and my youngest is a fifth grader. Most people my age are sending off their grade schoolers, not high schoolers. But I wouldn't take back a second. As Sam hugged me good-bye for the day he said, "wow, you've gotten skinny." Apparently the kid hasn't paid much attention when hugging me since I lost my weight, which was a year ago this month. LOL Not that I would ever consider myself skinny. Maybe skinnier is the correct way to describe me.
Today I get to spend the day with an old friend. No, she's not old...but she's been a friend for all but about 6 months of my life as a mother. In May of 1994 Jason and I began our married life together and moved to Biloxi, Mississippi, where we met John and Becky. The guys were both in the Air Force and Becky and I were both stay-at-home moms. In fact, Becky was the one with Peyton when she took her first steps. Jason and I had gone out for our anniversary and when we got back to pick up the kids, she told me that Peyton had taken a few steps. I am not angry or sad. I am glad it was Becky!
Now off to get ready for the day...it's 8:30am....I could still be sleeping if it wasn't for school.
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
A Crazy Week
Whew, am I glad it's Friday, although this doesn't mean the end of the craziness in our house.
The craziness in our house isn't a bad thing, just something to adjust to. Tuesday, Thursday and today we've had the pleasure of having a two year old in our house. Schedules have had to change according to nap time, trips to the potty, etc. Not a bad thing, just not what we're used to these days. He's a very good boy and we've had fun while he's been here. We visited the library and got to go in the little kids area...haven't been in there for many years! I have a sippy cup laying on the floor, Clifford the Big Red Dog on the television, and a cheerio mine scattered through out the house.
Tuesday, Peyton arrived safely home from a week long trip to Montana with a friend. I said a big thank you to God for their safe travels and a fun trip for them! Another reminder that the phrase my mom repeated to me many times growing up is true: Absence makes the heart grow fonder. I sure did miss my "little" girl!
Wednesday I spent time trying to figure out what errands I needed to run in the next few days, making grocery lists, thinking about school supplies, driving Peyton, Doug and Sam to play golf, running to the cell phone store because in all of this my phone decided this was the day it was done working, and trying to clean house and get laundry done.
Thursday morning is kind of when the craziness got more crazy. Two year old arrived early (like before 7:30am). I am organizing the fall women's bible study at church so had to make some sign-up sheets, power points, etc and knew I needed to get them to church some time before Saturday. Also on the agenda: go to Peyton's school to pick up pancake fundraiser tickets and run to the dollar store for some picture stands. (Wanna buy a ticket for a pancake breakfast at Applebee's on Sept. 6th?) Hubby was working from home that day which always throws a small wrench in our schedule...again, not a bad thing, just an adjustment from our "normal" day. As the family began to wake up and come downstairs...the day began. Peyton came downstairs and informed us that she had made the decision to try out for American Idol. WHEW! That just thru a very large wrench in our plans for the next few days! So we ran our few errands, came home and had lunch and then had to wade thru the paperwork and rules and regulations for one to audition. My schedule did not allow me to take Peyton to Invesco Field during the afternoon to register and get her wristband. We had our small group bible study at our house in the evening so were not able to take her then either. So as the plans unfolded, it was decided to take her up there at 10pm after our small group left. As I looked through the paper work, we realized in order for our friend to take her today, we had to get a notary to sign a release for guardianship. Off to the bank at 6pm to get that done.
So around 5:30pm, Two Year Old's daddy came to pick him up, Jason left with Peyton and Jen to get the paper notarized, and Two Year Old's mommy arrived. Two Year Old and family left, Jason and Peyton got home from the bank and then we had to eat a quick dinner before people started arriving for small group.
Just hit the start button on the coffee pot and our first guests arrived at the door.
Small group left around 9:30-9:45 and a few minutes later we were in the car headed to Invesco Field. We got up there to find that there was NO line like we thought we might encounter. They got the wristbands and the "low down" on what was going to happen today. As we were walking out, the security guards asked Peyton if they could hear her sing so she gave us a two minute concert right outside the gates of Invesco Field.
This morning Two Year Old is here again, Peyton is sitting in Invesco Field with Jen waiting for her section to get called for auditions and making a memory that will last her whole life! I'm such a proud mommy!
The craziness doesn't stop there. We have a hike scheduled tonight with our college bible study group and then they are all coming back to our house for pizza/hot dogs and to play cards. Then tomorrow Jason and I are off to Loveland for HeavenFest. We are both volunteering there and have different schedules. Sunday our company arrives and will be here a week...and the following week my kids go back to school. Do you have any idea how sad this mom is that summer break is coming to an end!!!?
So, I will cherish the craziness for the next week, because that means my kids are "home".
Thank you, LORD, for my three amazing children who make me smile each and every day and make me proud to be called "mom"!
The craziness in our house isn't a bad thing, just something to adjust to. Tuesday, Thursday and today we've had the pleasure of having a two year old in our house. Schedules have had to change according to nap time, trips to the potty, etc. Not a bad thing, just not what we're used to these days. He's a very good boy and we've had fun while he's been here. We visited the library and got to go in the little kids area...haven't been in there for many years! I have a sippy cup laying on the floor, Clifford the Big Red Dog on the television, and a cheerio mine scattered through out the house.
Tuesday, Peyton arrived safely home from a week long trip to Montana with a friend. I said a big thank you to God for their safe travels and a fun trip for them! Another reminder that the phrase my mom repeated to me many times growing up is true: Absence makes the heart grow fonder. I sure did miss my "little" girl!
Wednesday I spent time trying to figure out what errands I needed to run in the next few days, making grocery lists, thinking about school supplies, driving Peyton, Doug and Sam to play golf, running to the cell phone store because in all of this my phone decided this was the day it was done working, and trying to clean house and get laundry done.
Thursday morning is kind of when the craziness got more crazy. Two year old arrived early (like before 7:30am). I am organizing the fall women's bible study at church so had to make some sign-up sheets, power points, etc and knew I needed to get them to church some time before Saturday. Also on the agenda: go to Peyton's school to pick up pancake fundraiser tickets and run to the dollar store for some picture stands. (Wanna buy a ticket for a pancake breakfast at Applebee's on Sept. 6th?) Hubby was working from home that day which always throws a small wrench in our schedule...again, not a bad thing, just an adjustment from our "normal" day. As the family began to wake up and come downstairs...the day began. Peyton came downstairs and informed us that she had made the decision to try out for American Idol. WHEW! That just thru a very large wrench in our plans for the next few days! So we ran our few errands, came home and had lunch and then had to wade thru the paperwork and rules and regulations for one to audition. My schedule did not allow me to take Peyton to Invesco Field during the afternoon to register and get her wristband. We had our small group bible study at our house in the evening so were not able to take her then either. So as the plans unfolded, it was decided to take her up there at 10pm after our small group left. As I looked through the paper work, we realized in order for our friend to take her today, we had to get a notary to sign a release for guardianship. Off to the bank at 6pm to get that done.
So around 5:30pm, Two Year Old's daddy came to pick him up, Jason left with Peyton and Jen to get the paper notarized, and Two Year Old's mommy arrived. Two Year Old and family left, Jason and Peyton got home from the bank and then we had to eat a quick dinner before people started arriving for small group.
Just hit the start button on the coffee pot and our first guests arrived at the door.
Small group left around 9:30-9:45 and a few minutes later we were in the car headed to Invesco Field. We got up there to find that there was NO line like we thought we might encounter. They got the wristbands and the "low down" on what was going to happen today. As we were walking out, the security guards asked Peyton if they could hear her sing so she gave us a two minute concert right outside the gates of Invesco Field.
 |
| Peyton outside of Invesco |
The craziness doesn't stop there. We have a hike scheduled tonight with our college bible study group and then they are all coming back to our house for pizza/hot dogs and to play cards. Then tomorrow Jason and I are off to Loveland for HeavenFest. We are both volunteering there and have different schedules. Sunday our company arrives and will be here a week...and the following week my kids go back to school. Do you have any idea how sad this mom is that summer break is coming to an end!!!?
So, I will cherish the craziness for the next week, because that means my kids are "home".
Thank you, LORD, for my three amazing children who make me smile each and every day and make me proud to be called "mom"!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
camping, family, birthdays, and friends
This past week was filled with camping, s'mores, hiking, family time, swimming, a birthday party and being with friends.
Hubby was in charge of the men's church fishing trip and had no one sign up to go. Which of course we saw as a blessing and took advantage of him having three days off right before a weekend. We packed and headed south to go camping. We found a great camp site right in the middle of the mountains. Pitched our tent and that is where we called home for a few days. The next few days were spent fishing (the river was right across the street from our campground), taking a day trip to Ouray to see Box Canyon Falls (BREATH TAKING!), eating s'mores and chatting around the campfire before hitting the air mattress and snuggling into the sleeping bags for the cold night ahead. We camped in a campground that was right in the middle of an open range so we had cows walking by all day/night long. The last night several of them got into our campground and walked right next to our tent. No need to worry about the bears eating us! Cows are much tastier!
We got home Friday evening and unpacked and got the laundry all washed from our dusty camping trip.
Saturday Jason and I took a trip to Goodwill. Another wonderful trip to the Goodwill! Lots of treasures were found...and bought.
In the afternoon we went to the pool. Our pool requires kids to pass a swim test if they are going to be in the pool without an adult. Sam was unable to do this and I was getting frustrated at the fact that he either had to sit out with me, or I had to get in with him. So we decided to sign him up for private swim lessons. His first lesson was the morning we left for camping. He did a great job, but no where ready to pass a swim test. Well, after spending a half hour with him Saturday working on what he learned at his lesson, he was ready. He PASSED his test and is officially able to swim a whole length of the pool by himself.
Today was spent at our good friends' house celebrating our little friend's 2nd birthday! As I think back on all that has happened to bring us to this day, it makes me smile. Watching this little guys' parents start dating. Having his daddy live with us for a few months before they were married. Although we had our trials, I'd do it all again! Love that guy! Knowing that he was going to propose as we all sat and waited for them to get back from their hike. Then getting to watch as they said their vows. I remember the day that little Solomon was born. His first birthday as he dove into his bday cake, nose first! And now he's two. "two in June" is what he's been saying for the past couple of months. Although these are friends, I feel as if they are our family! Love them all to pieces!
Feeling pretty blessed as I look back on the past week. The beauty of His creation. Mountains, water falls, mighty rivers. The beauty of family. The beauty of friendships that have grown closer each year. How could you not feel blessed by all that He provides?
Hubby was in charge of the men's church fishing trip and had no one sign up to go. Which of course we saw as a blessing and took advantage of him having three days off right before a weekend. We packed and headed south to go camping. We found a great camp site right in the middle of the mountains. Pitched our tent and that is where we called home for a few days. The next few days were spent fishing (the river was right across the street from our campground), taking a day trip to Ouray to see Box Canyon Falls (BREATH TAKING!), eating s'mores and chatting around the campfire before hitting the air mattress and snuggling into the sleeping bags for the cold night ahead. We camped in a campground that was right in the middle of an open range so we had cows walking by all day/night long. The last night several of them got into our campground and walked right next to our tent. No need to worry about the bears eating us! Cows are much tastier!
We got home Friday evening and unpacked and got the laundry all washed from our dusty camping trip.
Saturday Jason and I took a trip to Goodwill. Another wonderful trip to the Goodwill! Lots of treasures were found...and bought.
In the afternoon we went to the pool. Our pool requires kids to pass a swim test if they are going to be in the pool without an adult. Sam was unable to do this and I was getting frustrated at the fact that he either had to sit out with me, or I had to get in with him. So we decided to sign him up for private swim lessons. His first lesson was the morning we left for camping. He did a great job, but no where ready to pass a swim test. Well, after spending a half hour with him Saturday working on what he learned at his lesson, he was ready. He PASSED his test and is officially able to swim a whole length of the pool by himself.
Today was spent at our good friends' house celebrating our little friend's 2nd birthday! As I think back on all that has happened to bring us to this day, it makes me smile. Watching this little guys' parents start dating. Having his daddy live with us for a few months before they were married. Although we had our trials, I'd do it all again! Love that guy! Knowing that he was going to propose as we all sat and waited for them to get back from their hike. Then getting to watch as they said their vows. I remember the day that little Solomon was born. His first birthday as he dove into his bday cake, nose first! And now he's two. "two in June" is what he's been saying for the past couple of months. Although these are friends, I feel as if they are our family! Love them all to pieces!
Feeling pretty blessed as I look back on the past week. The beauty of His creation. Mountains, water falls, mighty rivers. The beauty of family. The beauty of friendships that have grown closer each year. How could you not feel blessed by all that He provides?
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Just some thoughts
I really haven't had a lot to blog about lately. Been feeling a little lost and not sure where I should be in life. As a stay-at-home mom, I am just here, doing the dishes, folding laundry, and driving kids here or there when they need it. Dinner is expected. When we run out of toilet paper, milk, or bananas they run to me. Sometimes it's a thank-less job. But if you really think about it, although I don't get told thank you for emptying the dishwasher, being a stay-at-home mom is an important job.
I slept in this morning. Went for a 2 miles walk with my lil man. As we walked, we got to talk. Nothing deep. But just spending time together walking and talking. Precious! I ate breakfast at 11am. Yesterday I sat down and watched a movie with my daughter...in the middle of the day! Precious! Went for a drive yesterday with my oldest son. I won't tell you why we were out for a drive, but we got to laugh and talk while we were out. Precious!
I have realized that I am a schedule/structured person and without a schedule or structure, I feel a lack of importance or meaning. I'm learning to enjoy these "unscheduled" things as gifts from God.
I recently read a blog about Nebraska. This person is from Colorado, but went for a week to small-town Nebraska to stay with a friend. She talked about how relaxed and laid back it was. How people enjoy the small things. Feeding ducks, watching a small-town parade, corn fields, tractors and bug spray. And oh those amazing Nebraska sunsets. For a small second, I missed living in Nebraska. But then realized that it's the idea. And there is no reason I can't enjoy the "Good Life" right in my own back yard.
I think I'll go make some Kool-aid. Fill some water balloons. Eat lunch on the patio with my kids.
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
I slept in this morning. Went for a 2 miles walk with my lil man. As we walked, we got to talk. Nothing deep. But just spending time together walking and talking. Precious! I ate breakfast at 11am. Yesterday I sat down and watched a movie with my daughter...in the middle of the day! Precious! Went for a drive yesterday with my oldest son. I won't tell you why we were out for a drive, but we got to laugh and talk while we were out. Precious!
I have realized that I am a schedule/structured person and without a schedule or structure, I feel a lack of importance or meaning. I'm learning to enjoy these "unscheduled" things as gifts from God.
I recently read a blog about Nebraska. This person is from Colorado, but went for a week to small-town Nebraska to stay with a friend. She talked about how relaxed and laid back it was. How people enjoy the small things. Feeding ducks, watching a small-town parade, corn fields, tractors and bug spray. And oh those amazing Nebraska sunsets. For a small second, I missed living in Nebraska. But then realized that it's the idea. And there is no reason I can't enjoy the "Good Life" right in my own back yard.
I think I'll go make some Kool-aid. Fill some water balloons. Eat lunch on the patio with my kids.
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
Monday, June 6, 2011
Summer
I've always said Fall is my favorite season. I love the colors of fall. I love fall decor with all the straw, mums, scarecrows, leaves and crisp air, etc. But I'm starting to wonder if summer is really my favorite.
Summer means:
my kids being home from school
laid back schedules
being able to walk to the pool on a whim if we decide we want to take a dip in the pool. Even if it's only for a half hour.
grilling all kinds of yummy food and no fancy dinners
eating on the patio with my family
sitting near a lake reading a book while my family fishes
wrapped up in a blanket by the fire pit making s'mores with my hubby and kids
camping
the coolness of an air conditioner after you've been outside
the coolness of summer evenings
suntans...and sunburns. (I happen to have both)
fresh veggies and fruits
road trips
I could go on forever, but those are just a few of my favorite things. All from God. Thank you, God, for all of these amazing things you bless me with.
Summer means:
my kids being home from school
laid back schedules
being able to walk to the pool on a whim if we decide we want to take a dip in the pool. Even if it's only for a half hour.
grilling all kinds of yummy food and no fancy dinners
eating on the patio with my family
sitting near a lake reading a book while my family fishes
wrapped up in a blanket by the fire pit making s'mores with my hubby and kids
camping
the coolness of an air conditioner after you've been outside
the coolness of summer evenings
suntans...and sunburns. (I happen to have both)
fresh veggies and fruits
road trips
I could go on forever, but those are just a few of my favorite things. All from God. Thank you, God, for all of these amazing things you bless me with.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Oh Goodwill, how I love thee!
As I sift through my closet to choose what I will put on for the day, I realize how much stuff I have actually bought at the local Goodwill. Our budget has not allowed me to have a shopping spree at the mall, but I'm fine with that...especially when I can find clothes from Gap, Ralph Lauren, Old Navy, Eddie Bauer, Jones New York, etc all looking brand new. I also have a few pairs of name brand shoes that I have bought at Goodwill.
Today's outfit from the Gdub:
Jeans from Target via Gdub
Sweater tank from Gap via Gdub
Black jacket from Isabella Rodriguez via Gdub
Flower slip on shoes from Nordstrom via Gdub
Gotta love it!
Now off to Longmont to celebrate our nieces graduation.
Happy Memorial Day to you all!
Today's outfit from the Gdub:
Jeans from Target via Gdub
Sweater tank from Gap via Gdub
Black jacket from Isabella Rodriguez via Gdub
Flower slip on shoes from Nordstrom via Gdub
Gotta love it!
Now off to Longmont to celebrate our nieces graduation.
Happy Memorial Day to you all!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Youth Ministry....is this what I am supposed to be doing?
That question was answered tonight as I served hot dogs and hamburgers to the teens in our church at our end of school year party. There always seems to be one or two girls that just need a hug and to be loved on. I found that girl. She cried and talked...and I thanked God for allowing me to love her! How sweet it is for God to use me in this way.
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