I'm not awesome enough to be one of those extreme couponers.
I kind of wish I was. I have some friends and family who are.
But I'm not.
Nonetheless, I do appreciate coupons and doing as much as I can do to use them to save some money! Lately, whenever I go shopping at most of the grocery stores I frequent, I manage to save 40 to 50%. I consider that pretty darn good.
And right now, I'm also racking up the gas points with the Safeway grocery chain. I got gas the other day for $3.08, and that was pretty darn awesome.
It's actually pretty fun for me to plan my shopping trips and see what coupons I have, trying to match up manufacturer's coupons with store coupons and special deals.
And maybe that makes me a nerd... But I'm okay with that.
Because coupons just make me happy :).
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, March 31, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
That I Can Drive a Stick-Shift
All my growing-up life, until 1997, my family only owned standard transmission vehicles.
So when, at the age of 12, I convinced my mom I was old enough (and in my mind mature enough) to get behind the wheel of our van and practice driving in the empty church parking lot... It was in a stick-shift. So I guess you could say I got in my first car accident in a stick-shift (by not turning the steering wheel soon enough, and then -- in a fit of panic -- punching the gas instead of the brake, propelling the vehicle over the curb, nearly down a hill (with boulders at the bottom), and nearly into a tree. And then my mom remembered the emergency brake.
My mom HATES this story. I think we both learned the same lesson that day: I was not old enough -- or mature enough.
But the time did eventually come when I was. And my dad felt strongly that, though by that point we did have a vehicle with an automatic transmission, I needed to learn how to drive a stick-shift. His theory was -- and still is: If you can drive a stick-shift, you can drive anything. And it's pretty true.
Because I could drive a stick-shift, I could drive the very first car my dad bought me: a 1980 Ford Pinto. He bought it cheap and then fixed it up inside so it looked really nice inside -- new seat covers, new carpet, new dashboard cover... Because I could drive a stick-shift, I could drive a truck home from Georgia in the middle of the night on random back roads when the other driver was having a hard time staying awake. Because I could drive a stick-shift, when my Buick died a couple years ago, I could drive my husband's 1988 Honda Civic to get myself to work every day until we found the vehicle we wanted (the van). And because I can drive a stick-shift, I could go to my morning meeting at church today in the Civic and leave the van for my husband to bring our munchkin later on, rather than all of us being super early for church. Plus, the Civic gets way better gas mileage.
Of course, I'm not such a fan of a stick-shift in these Western Washington hills... I mean, they are everywhere. We live at the very top of a particularly steep one. And since I don't drive a stick-shift very often, my skills are a bit rusty and I get nervous starting on a hill in the upward position... I'm bound to kill the car at least once.
But I'm still quite grateful that I can drive a stick-shift -- even in Western Washington. Because, in a pinch, or even for convenience, it sure does come in handy!
What are you grateful for today?
So when, at the age of 12, I convinced my mom I was old enough (and in my mind mature enough) to get behind the wheel of our van and practice driving in the empty church parking lot... It was in a stick-shift. So I guess you could say I got in my first car accident in a stick-shift (by not turning the steering wheel soon enough, and then -- in a fit of panic -- punching the gas instead of the brake, propelling the vehicle over the curb, nearly down a hill (with boulders at the bottom), and nearly into a tree. And then my mom remembered the emergency brake.
My mom HATES this story. I think we both learned the same lesson that day: I was not old enough -- or mature enough.
But the time did eventually come when I was. And my dad felt strongly that, though by that point we did have a vehicle with an automatic transmission, I needed to learn how to drive a stick-shift. His theory was -- and still is: If you can drive a stick-shift, you can drive anything. And it's pretty true.
Because I could drive a stick-shift, I could drive the very first car my dad bought me: a 1980 Ford Pinto. He bought it cheap and then fixed it up inside so it looked really nice inside -- new seat covers, new carpet, new dashboard cover... Because I could drive a stick-shift, I could drive a truck home from Georgia in the middle of the night on random back roads when the other driver was having a hard time staying awake. Because I could drive a stick-shift, when my Buick died a couple years ago, I could drive my husband's 1988 Honda Civic to get myself to work every day until we found the vehicle we wanted (the van). And because I can drive a stick-shift, I could go to my morning meeting at church today in the Civic and leave the van for my husband to bring our munchkin later on, rather than all of us being super early for church. Plus, the Civic gets way better gas mileage.
Of course, I'm not such a fan of a stick-shift in these Western Washington hills... I mean, they are everywhere. We live at the very top of a particularly steep one. And since I don't drive a stick-shift very often, my skills are a bit rusty and I get nervous starting on a hill in the upward position... I'm bound to kill the car at least once.
But I'm still quite grateful that I can drive a stick-shift -- even in Western Washington. Because, in a pinch, or even for convenience, it sure does come in handy!
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, March 29, 2014
My Memory and Memories
One of my (many) projects this year is completing the Monday Meals cookbooks. I've been talking about them for 3 years now.
To accomplish this goal, I spent time this last week trying to order all the pictures I hadn't ordered up to that point. And then I discovered I was missing almost a year of my life in pictures. I checked all my picture discs... I checked my computer... And nowhere. Nowhere could I find the pictures from June 2011 to April 2012.
I was horrified. Distraught. Frustrated. And, quite frankly, upset with myself. How could I be so careless as to erase pictures from my memory card without making sure I'd backed them up to disc???
True, I could piece together some stuff from facebook (like all the food pictures). But what about all of the other pictures I'd never posted anywhere else?
Here's the thing: pictures are something I horde. Because they help me remember moments of my past. They jog my memory.
Many people have told me I have a pretty good memory. A freakish one is how it's been described at times. And I'm so grateful for it.
No, I can't tell you the exact date World War II ended. And I can't tell you the major exports of a given country I probably had to learn about in 7th grade.
But I can tell you when you may have owned a particular vehicle or gotten in a car accident... Or what movies we saw the summer of 1999... if I happened to know you then.
It kind of reminds me of this poem I memorized for an assignment (in 5th grade for Mrs. Sprague's class, if you really wanted to know). It is called Memory, and I loved it. (I don't know who wrote it, or if that person is anonymous. I think it was anonymous.)
My mind lets go a thousand things
Like dates of wars, and deaths of kings.
And yet recalls the very hour -
'Twas noon by yonder village tower.
And on that last blue moon in May,
The wind came briskly up this way,
Crisping the book beside the road
Then, pausing here, set down its load
Of pine scents and shook listlessly
Two petals from that wild rose tree.
That's kind of how my memory is. If it was significant to my life -- or yours -- I can generally remember it, and roughly when it happened.
And sometimes, I rely on pictures to help jog those memories. To help me pinpoint a moment in time.
True, there are memories I have which will never require a picture to help me remember. Like the day my daughter was born. Or the day I got married.
But there are still those memories I fear would fade without pictures or something to spark that memory. (I used to also horde memorabilia. Like a questionnaire I took in 4th or 5th grade in which I claimed that, if I could have someone famous visit my class, my top 3 choices would be Debbie Gibson, Rod Stewart, and -- no joke -- Jane Fonda. My number one choice.)
I'm not saying I live in the past. But I do like to remember it. The happy moments that make me smile. I'm grateful for my memories. And my memory. One of the things that seems horrible to me about aging -- and it happens more with some than with others -- is the loss of those memories, especially through Alzheimer's. It seems a horrible thing to me to lose my memories. Where even a picture won't help me remember. I've been promised that my mind and intellect will always be healthy and bright. And I hope I live worthy of receiving that promise.
Of course I do believe that we'll have it all restored to us in the eternities. And for that, I'm also grateful.
Because my memories are a part of me. The events of my past have shaped me. And I'm grateful my memory is a good one -- to help me remember the moments of life that make life grand.
P.S... With the help of my husband... We found the pictures. And I am ever so grateful for that too.
What are you grateful for today?
To accomplish this goal, I spent time this last week trying to order all the pictures I hadn't ordered up to that point. And then I discovered I was missing almost a year of my life in pictures. I checked all my picture discs... I checked my computer... And nowhere. Nowhere could I find the pictures from June 2011 to April 2012.
I was horrified. Distraught. Frustrated. And, quite frankly, upset with myself. How could I be so careless as to erase pictures from my memory card without making sure I'd backed them up to disc???
True, I could piece together some stuff from facebook (like all the food pictures). But what about all of the other pictures I'd never posted anywhere else?
Here's the thing: pictures are something I horde. Because they help me remember moments of my past. They jog my memory.
Many people have told me I have a pretty good memory. A freakish one is how it's been described at times. And I'm so grateful for it.
No, I can't tell you the exact date World War II ended. And I can't tell you the major exports of a given country I probably had to learn about in 7th grade.
But I can tell you when you may have owned a particular vehicle or gotten in a car accident... Or what movies we saw the summer of 1999... if I happened to know you then.
It kind of reminds me of this poem I memorized for an assignment (in 5th grade for Mrs. Sprague's class, if you really wanted to know). It is called Memory, and I loved it. (I don't know who wrote it, or if that person is anonymous. I think it was anonymous.)
My mind lets go a thousand things
Like dates of wars, and deaths of kings.
And yet recalls the very hour -
'Twas noon by yonder village tower.
And on that last blue moon in May,
The wind came briskly up this way,
Crisping the book beside the road
Then, pausing here, set down its load
Of pine scents and shook listlessly
Two petals from that wild rose tree.
That's kind of how my memory is. If it was significant to my life -- or yours -- I can generally remember it, and roughly when it happened.
And sometimes, I rely on pictures to help jog those memories. To help me pinpoint a moment in time.
True, there are memories I have which will never require a picture to help me remember. Like the day my daughter was born. Or the day I got married.
But there are still those memories I fear would fade without pictures or something to spark that memory. (I used to also horde memorabilia. Like a questionnaire I took in 4th or 5th grade in which I claimed that, if I could have someone famous visit my class, my top 3 choices would be Debbie Gibson, Rod Stewart, and -- no joke -- Jane Fonda. My number one choice.)
I'm not saying I live in the past. But I do like to remember it. The happy moments that make me smile. I'm grateful for my memories. And my memory. One of the things that seems horrible to me about aging -- and it happens more with some than with others -- is the loss of those memories, especially through Alzheimer's. It seems a horrible thing to me to lose my memories. Where even a picture won't help me remember. I've been promised that my mind and intellect will always be healthy and bright. And I hope I live worthy of receiving that promise.
Of course I do believe that we'll have it all restored to us in the eternities. And for that, I'm also grateful.
Because my memories are a part of me. The events of my past have shaped me. And I'm grateful my memory is a good one -- to help me remember the moments of life that make life grand.
P.S... With the help of my husband... We found the pictures. And I am ever so grateful for that too.
What are you grateful for today?
Friday, March 28, 2014
The Walker/Push-Behind
We received this walker at Christmas-time for our little munchkin from a wonderful family at church.
And Baby Girl loves it!
She wasn't so fond of it as a walker... Even after she figured out she could walk in it, it wasn't her favorite. I think it was being contained that bothered her.
But now that she's more stable and can walk with it -- pushing it... Well, she is entertained for a long time.
Initially, she kept running it in to everything -- the curio cabinet, the couch, the wall... And we'd constantly be going over to fix her (she hasn't totally grasped backing up). Then my husband had the genius idea of locking one of the wheels. And now she goes in circles. And everyone is happy.
She laughs and has a great time, because she's walking.
We don't have to stop what we're doing to unstick her as often (though she has gotten quite good at managing to get it moving in other directions, not just circles, even with the one locked wheel!).
And on days like yesterday when I feel really yucky... Well, she's content to go around and around and around... And I can chill on the couch.
It's pretty much a win-win-win! And it's helping her develop her walking skills. So watch out world! It won't be long now!
Yeah, we're really grateful for this walker, really grateful to the kind people who gave it to us.
What are you grateful for today?
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Prune Juice
This week brought another Mommy-first for me: constipation.
From one extreme to the other!
And I came to understand how painful it is to watch my child suffer through pain, knowing there is very little I can do about it. Sure, she's fallen and bonked her head and cried. And that's sad. But the pain has already been inflicted and is past. With Baby Girl's experience on Tuesday, I watched her struggle through the pain... 3 times. And then 2 more times yesterday.
And I actually started crying that first time.
Of course, I don't play around with this... I went and bought prune juice on Tuesday afternoon. After all, it was one of the very few things I could do. I think it's slightly sad that prune juice is the first juice my sweet girl has gotten to experience, even if it was seriously diluted with water... But I'm incredibly grateful that it exists and that someone in the past figured out that it's a great laxative-type thing.
Because I'm happy to report things are back to regular... And that there were no tears twice today :).
Prune juice, I salute you! Even if I would never drink you by choice.
What are you grateful for today?
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Eyes to See
The other day, as our little family drove to church, I noticed again the beauties of the blooming and flowering trees.
At a stop-light at the bottom of our hill, there are many such trees, and I have always enjoyed driving that stretch in the Spring.
Sunday happened to be a particularly beautiful day. The sky was a lovely shade of blue, and those pale pink flowers just stood out against the sky. And I told my husband I wished I had brought my camera with me.
Apparently he'd recently had a conversation about exposures and such with a friend of ours who is a professional videographer. And apparently, for pictures such as I was thinking of, a photographer will often take two pictures to change the exposure and then blend them together as one. By so doing, the sky and the flowers will both pop, whereas under normal circumstances, one would lose the awesomeness in the picture.
Don't know if that makes sense -- and I'm certainly not using real photographer terminology, because I"m not a real photographer! But I understood what my husband was saying, and so I told him, "It's amazing what our eyes can do... We can capture all the beauty at once, but a camera -- no matter how sophisticated -- really can't. It takes a little doctoring.
And I've seen that many times. Many times I've tried to capture a beautiful rainbow or a lovely sunset. My eyes marvel at the sight of what I'm seeing, and yet I can never get a picture which does the view justice. Not that I am some spectacular picture-taker... I'm not. I'm more of the point-and-shoot variety. But nonetheless, I have been amazed at the detail and beauty my eye can take in, but my camera simply can't seem to capture.
What a miracle. What a marvel!
My eyes aren't perfect. I have worn glasses and/or contacts since 3rd grade. But I can see, even if not clearly sans assistance. I know there are many who either have not been blessed with the opportunity to see in this life -- and many others who once had the ability and lost it for some reason or another. It is hard to imagine not being able to see.
Of course, I know those who cannot see have amazing abilities in their other sense. We had a blind cat who was born without eyes (they never developed). And that cat was amazing in her ability to do lots of things -- like walk unobstructed through the house... or let you know when there was a gnat or something flitting about. I can only assume the same is true for humans -- that their other senses become magnified that much more.
But I am grateful I do have eyes that see. Whether it's for enjoying the beauties of the outdoors, reading a book, watching a movie, marveling at my baby girl, driving a car, or writing this blog... My eyes serve me immensely on a daily basis. They have helped me store away images in my mind that make me smile. And I'm grateful for this blessing of eyes that see.
What are you grateful for today?
At a stop-light at the bottom of our hill, there are many such trees, and I have always enjoyed driving that stretch in the Spring.
Sunday happened to be a particularly beautiful day. The sky was a lovely shade of blue, and those pale pink flowers just stood out against the sky. And I told my husband I wished I had brought my camera with me.
Apparently he'd recently had a conversation about exposures and such with a friend of ours who is a professional videographer. And apparently, for pictures such as I was thinking of, a photographer will often take two pictures to change the exposure and then blend them together as one. By so doing, the sky and the flowers will both pop, whereas under normal circumstances, one would lose the awesomeness in the picture.
Don't know if that makes sense -- and I'm certainly not using real photographer terminology, because I"m not a real photographer! But I understood what my husband was saying, and so I told him, "It's amazing what our eyes can do... We can capture all the beauty at once, but a camera -- no matter how sophisticated -- really can't. It takes a little doctoring.
And I've seen that many times. Many times I've tried to capture a beautiful rainbow or a lovely sunset. My eyes marvel at the sight of what I'm seeing, and yet I can never get a picture which does the view justice. Not that I am some spectacular picture-taker... I'm not. I'm more of the point-and-shoot variety. But nonetheless, I have been amazed at the detail and beauty my eye can take in, but my camera simply can't seem to capture.
What a miracle. What a marvel!
My eyes aren't perfect. I have worn glasses and/or contacts since 3rd grade. But I can see, even if not clearly sans assistance. I know there are many who either have not been blessed with the opportunity to see in this life -- and many others who once had the ability and lost it for some reason or another. It is hard to imagine not being able to see.
Of course, I know those who cannot see have amazing abilities in their other sense. We had a blind cat who was born without eyes (they never developed). And that cat was amazing in her ability to do lots of things -- like walk unobstructed through the house... or let you know when there was a gnat or something flitting about. I can only assume the same is true for humans -- that their other senses become magnified that much more.
But I am grateful I do have eyes that see. Whether it's for enjoying the beauties of the outdoors, reading a book, watching a movie, marveling at my baby girl, driving a car, or writing this blog... My eyes serve me immensely on a daily basis. They have helped me store away images in my mind that make me smile. And I'm grateful for this blessing of eyes that see.
What are you grateful for today?
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Re-Usable Grocery Bags
I seriously love them! I used to balk at the possibility that we would be forced to have those bags.
And honestly, I still don't agree with being forced.
But once I realized how sturdy they are -- and how they pack more items inside of them, making fewer bags to lug into the house -- I can't understand why everyone doesn't want to use them!
True, I sometimes forget them in the van when I go into the store (making me wonder what the point of having them is...). But I'm getting better at remembering :).
Of course, it's even worse when I remember to take them in and then forget to hand them to the cashier, resulting in plastic anyway.
Anyway, they make my life easier when I go to the grocery store. So I'm definitely grateful for them, even if they are a small thing!
And they're good for the environment ;).
What are you grateful for today?
And honestly, I still don't agree with being forced.
But once I realized how sturdy they are -- and how they pack more items inside of them, making fewer bags to lug into the house -- I can't understand why everyone doesn't want to use them!
True, I sometimes forget them in the van when I go into the store (making me wonder what the point of having them is...). But I'm getting better at remembering :).
Of course, it's even worse when I remember to take them in and then forget to hand them to the cashier, resulting in plastic anyway.
Anyway, they make my life easier when I go to the grocery store. So I'm definitely grateful for them, even if they are a small thing!
And they're good for the environment ;).
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, March 24, 2014
Julia-Ann J
Julia-Ann is another wonderful friend I met as a result of working in a library. True, I wasn't working at the main branch of the Dothan library when she started working there. But as I continued to be a library-frequenter even after I'd taken a different job (in a different library), I got to meet Julia-Ann and get to know her.
And she really is a sweet, sweet person. And a wonderful friend.
One time, while I was living in Tuscaloosa, I couldn't reach my dad by phone. At the time, he only had a land-line and didn't have an answering machine. But he was always home in the evenings, so I found it quite strange that he didn't answer his phone for several nights in a row. And, worrier that I am, I started to become concerned. I was 4 hours away, so I couldn't very well just drive over to his house and make sure all was well.
But my friend Julia-Ann could... And she did. I called her up and told her the situation. She drove over on her lunch break the next day. She told me nobody answered the door, but all looked okay. It's possibly my dad went to the library shortly thereafter, and Julia-Ann told him I was concerned about him. I don't remember all the details. I just know my dad found out I sent someone to his house looking for him. Turned out he'd started a job and was at work every time I'd tried to call. All's well that ends well. But how grateful I was that I had someone who was willing to do that for me. And because he knew her from the library, he probably wouldn't be suspicious of someone looking around his house if he had been there. Haha...
And then there was graduate school. Julia-Ann had started the library program at the University of Alabama before I did. One semester, while I was already living in Tuscaloosa, she was taking a weekend class. I invited Julia-Ann to come stay at my place on the weekends when she had class. I remember it was a treat for me to have company from home. And, quite frankly, company period. Because those were my early days in Tuscaloosa, and I still didn't have many friends, so I was lonely. I looked forward to making a meal for two instead of just one. I enjoyed sitting up and visiting for a few hours on those Friday nights.
And then Julia-Ann blessed my life hugely. She let me borrow all of the textbooks for the classes I would be taking. I bought only one book my entire graduate school career. And at a time when I was living very tightly so as not to take out any student loans or go into any additional debt... but to pay for my schooling as I went... Well, that was a sweet blessing, a tender mercy. A wonderful gift from a dear friend. And I will always know that Heavenly Father helped out with all of that.
I'm grateful that Julia-Ann still makes time for me when I'm in Alabama. Though life has taken her away from Dothan, on both of my return trips since then, she's always been willing to meet up with me (or us) for breakfast or lunch while we were passing through the city where she now lives. And I always consider that a great kindness. Because I always love the opportunity to see my wonderful friends, especially when those opportunities don't come along often.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I've been richly blessed in my life with amazing and wonderful friends. And Julia-Ann is certainly among them.
What are you grateful for today?
And she really is a sweet, sweet person. And a wonderful friend.
One time, while I was living in Tuscaloosa, I couldn't reach my dad by phone. At the time, he only had a land-line and didn't have an answering machine. But he was always home in the evenings, so I found it quite strange that he didn't answer his phone for several nights in a row. And, worrier that I am, I started to become concerned. I was 4 hours away, so I couldn't very well just drive over to his house and make sure all was well.
But my friend Julia-Ann could... And she did. I called her up and told her the situation. She drove over on her lunch break the next day. She told me nobody answered the door, but all looked okay. It's possibly my dad went to the library shortly thereafter, and Julia-Ann told him I was concerned about him. I don't remember all the details. I just know my dad found out I sent someone to his house looking for him. Turned out he'd started a job and was at work every time I'd tried to call. All's well that ends well. But how grateful I was that I had someone who was willing to do that for me. And because he knew her from the library, he probably wouldn't be suspicious of someone looking around his house if he had been there. Haha...
And then there was graduate school. Julia-Ann had started the library program at the University of Alabama before I did. One semester, while I was already living in Tuscaloosa, she was taking a weekend class. I invited Julia-Ann to come stay at my place on the weekends when she had class. I remember it was a treat for me to have company from home. And, quite frankly, company period. Because those were my early days in Tuscaloosa, and I still didn't have many friends, so I was lonely. I looked forward to making a meal for two instead of just one. I enjoyed sitting up and visiting for a few hours on those Friday nights.
And then Julia-Ann blessed my life hugely. She let me borrow all of the textbooks for the classes I would be taking. I bought only one book my entire graduate school career. And at a time when I was living very tightly so as not to take out any student loans or go into any additional debt... but to pay for my schooling as I went... Well, that was a sweet blessing, a tender mercy. A wonderful gift from a dear friend. And I will always know that Heavenly Father helped out with all of that.
I'm grateful that Julia-Ann still makes time for me when I'm in Alabama. Though life has taken her away from Dothan, on both of my return trips since then, she's always been willing to meet up with me (or us) for breakfast or lunch while we were passing through the city where she now lives. And I always consider that a great kindness. Because I always love the opportunity to see my wonderful friends, especially when those opportunities don't come along often.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I've been richly blessed in my life with amazing and wonderful friends. And Julia-Ann is certainly among them.
What are you grateful for today?
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Marriage
I'll be honest... There are days I don't feel particularly grateful for it.
But those days are few and far between. And even then, underneath it all, I'm still grateful for it :).
Ever since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a wife one day. My heart has always yearned for that companionship.
Of course, when I was a little girl, I thought finding the husband was the hard part and once I got married, I'd be strolling along down easy street... And I've since learned that's not how things are. Because that's just not real life. But that's okay.
I truly believe that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. That it is in His plan for us to marry. That He intends that man and woman be united in marriage to help each other as equal partners.
I remember while I lived in Tuscaloosa, my Institute teacher said something about how grateful he was for his marriage, because on the days when he was off -- having a bad day -- he knew he could depend on his wife to help pick up the slack. And the same was true for her off days.
And I totally get it.
It's nice to know there is someone working beside me through the garbage days. It's nice to know there's someone who will put his arms around me and hug me when I'm having a bad day. Or who will take over with the baby when I just need a break.
It's nice to feel the presence of my sweetie beside me in the middle of the night. And nice to have him come home. Which is why, when he works swing shift, I can't sleep until he comes in the door. It's nice to make meals for him and plan gifts for him.
It's nice to plan life with him. A future with him.
I am grateful that, in marriage, two parts come together to make a whole. That his strengths are there to be added to mine, and together we can face the hardships and trials that will surely come -- and we can overcome. I'm grateful we can help each other in our weaknesses, too. That we can grow stronger in our union as we continue pressing forward when things are hard. I'm grateful we can support each other.
I'm grateful we can laugh together. Hope together. And sometimes even cry together.
I have a friend who told me once that marriage is the toughest job you'll ever do. It is. Sometimes it is hard. To say anything other than that would be a lie.
But it's worth it. Even on the hard days.
I will say our love has grown and strengthened over the last two years. We are learning the strength of our commitment. Our willingness to give our all. Even when we don't feel like we want to. I can honestly say I'm grateful for my marriage. For my husband. I'm grateful to be ambling through this crazy life with him beside me. And I'm grateful to know marriage can be forever. And that that is our goal.
Because, to quote Elder Russel M. Nelson, one of the twelve apostles, "The only duration of family life that satisfies the loftiest longings of the human soul is forever."
And I couldn't agree more.
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, March 22, 2014
The Baby Monitor
So back when I thought I knew what parenthood was going to be... We didn't plan on having a baby monitor. To our way of thinking, we figured, eh, our apartment isn't huge, so it's not like we won't hear the baby crying.
Little did I realize that's not really what some parents listen out for through the baby monitors...
Because I'm one of those moms... Because I'm one of those people...
The kind who worry. A lot.
It's true, I have no problem hearing Baby Girl when she cries. I don't need the baby monitor for that.
I don't even need it for when she wakes up from a nap and starts saying yayayayaya in her happy voice. I can hear that too.
But sometimes, when a nap runs longer than usual...
Or when she's been not feeling well...
Or when I'm just being my crazy self...
Those are the times I am thankful we received a baby monitor as a gift. Because while I don't want to go into her room to check on her (you NEVER want to wake a contentedly sleeping baby!), sometimes I just need the reassurance of her breathing.
So I sneak out to the living room (if I'm not here already), and I click it on. And sometimes I have to listen really closely (and believe me, I do). But when I hear her rhythmic breathing, I can put my worries to rest. And I'm so grateful the baby monitor provides that blessing for a sometimes-worry-wart mommy.
I'm not so sure I want a video one, though. I totally get why they are awesome... Now that I am experiencing parenthood. But I have friends who have a video one and one day, their screen started displaying a room that wasn't in their house. Freaky. They quit using it for a while after that. Not sure if they figured out what was going on there. But she showed it to me... And yeah, freaky.
So I'll stick with the audio-only ones. Even if I might pick up someone planning a crime ;)...
What are you grateful for today?
Friday, March 21, 2014
Pedialyte
As I mentioned yesterday... We had a sick little girl in our house.
She was feeling much better today, but her diaper situation is still pretty bad. We probably went through 10 diapers today and 5 outfits. Despite all that, she's been really happy and cheese-grinny (it's her new thing). And she's eating and keeping everything down. It's just the other end that's still having issues.
So we've been pumping Pedialyte into her any which way we can. Including out of a "big girl" cup. She is a kiddo who loves the novelty of new things... So I tried giving her some of the Pedialyte in a cup, very slowly... And she just kept opening her mouth for more. (When I gave it to her in a bottle, her face was priceless... Her refusal to drink it after that... not so funny.)
Anyway, there may be a lot of really great ways to make sure a baby isn't getting dehydrated. But I'm pretty grateful for this stuff. Even though it tastes pretty yuck.
Yes, I tried it. Because after the faces I was getting from Baby Girl, I figured I should know what would elicit such a sour-puss face. And now I know.
But I'm grateful for what its intended use is. I'm grateful I could go to the store and grab some when we realized our munchkin was going to be having some issues with losing a lot of liquid.
And, since I probably bought more than we need... Maybe this will mean will never have to use it after this! You know... Since I have it, maybe we won't need it. :)... I'll pay $20 for that any day!
What are you grateful for today?
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Baking Soda
Today was not the easiest day in our household.
Baby Girl had 2 explosive diapers... 2 vomits (at least one of which was of the projectile variety -- the other might have been, but we were in her dark room, so I felt it more than saw it), 2 baths, 5 outfit changes (6 different outfits).
Mommy had two baths and 4 outfit changes.
Mommy and Daddy washed 4 loads of clothes.
And the couch was unstuffed and the covers washed and some of the cushions got baking soda'ed. To take out the puke smell.
I don't know what my sweet husband did with the baking soda, but I know it worked. So I'm grateful for baking soda.
And for my husband being home this morning to help me get through the worst of it. Because believe me, this was a two-person operation!
We don't know what has caused our sweet girl's distress. Just a bug? Or did we give her something to eat that didn't agree with her? She is still pretty happy, but her appetite is pretty nil and she has slept a lot. And she doesn't like pedialyte. Which has me a bit worried, because I don't know how to get it into her, and I feel like she needs something to replace all that she's purged!
But I'm still grateful for the baking soda. Grateful the couch is like new (or at least like it was before this morning happened ;)). Better keep that trick in mind for the next time I am in labor to have a baby.... Experience tells us I toss my cookies...
What are you grateful for today?
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Spring in the Air
It's true that Fall is my favorite season. Something about all the oranges and yellows that are so vibrant against the green. And it doesn't help that it's cooling off from the heat of summer. And I'm a sucker for anything that gets rid of the heat!
But I have to say that Spring is a very close second favorite. The beautiful skies, the warming up from Winter. And the newness of everything.
In recent years, I've noticed how Spring comes on almost imperceptibly. The trees are sprouting buds without me realizing it, and then one day, it just pops! And there is color everywhere!
Spring just feels like a time of renewal, of starting over. Fresh, clean, beautiful. And when it finally starts to peek out here in Western Washington... Well, it just makes me happy.
What are you grateful for today?
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Middle School Band Concerts
This evening Baby Girl and I had the opportunity to attend my niece's band concert.
And it made my day.
There is something special about being able to witness this beautiful young woman as she contributes her part (trombone) to a greater whole. To listen to the music these kids have worked to prepare. And to introduce my baby to musical instruments and concerts!
It was a blessing for me to be able to attend this event today. And, if I'm being completely honest, I got a little choked up as I listened to the band play, with my eyes fixed on my niece and the part she played. What a treasure to see her as she is maturing. I was there the day she was born (not the exact moment, but before and after...), and it's hard to believe almost 13 years have passed.
Tonight was poignant for me, and I'm so grateful that tonight's middle school band concert offered me the opportunity to be touched on so many levels and store away treasured moments in my memory box :).
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, March 17, 2014
The US Postal Service
I know they get a bad rap.
And, frankly, at Christmas time, when I'm standing in a line that reaches out the door a week before Christmas and there are only two windows open... and then one of those employees takes a break... I get annoyed too.
But all that aside, I am grateful for the postal service we have here in the United States. I've been writing a few letters this year, and I'm grateful I can put them outside the door and they will be picked up. I don't even have to get out of my pajamas!
I'm grateful they bring my mail to my house, be it junk mail, fun mail, or even packages.
And I know this isn't true for everyone... Some people live far enough out of city limits that mail simply doesn't arrive quite at their doorstep. But I think the majority of U.S. households are able to receive mail at their home address, if they so desire.
I'm also grateful that, though there are some unfortunate situations in which mail is stolen, lost, or otherwise damaged; by and large, our mail system is dependable and secure. Having lived in another country, I know that that isn't always the case with other postal services.
I appreciate that I can send mail to my friends across these States. It's just nice to be able to do that, even though I live so far from so many. And yes, I know there is email. But you can't email a present! :)
What are you grateful for today?
And, frankly, at Christmas time, when I'm standing in a line that reaches out the door a week before Christmas and there are only two windows open... and then one of those employees takes a break... I get annoyed too.
But all that aside, I am grateful for the postal service we have here in the United States. I've been writing a few letters this year, and I'm grateful I can put them outside the door and they will be picked up. I don't even have to get out of my pajamas!
I'm grateful they bring my mail to my house, be it junk mail, fun mail, or even packages.
And I know this isn't true for everyone... Some people live far enough out of city limits that mail simply doesn't arrive quite at their doorstep. But I think the majority of U.S. households are able to receive mail at their home address, if they so desire.
I'm also grateful that, though there are some unfortunate situations in which mail is stolen, lost, or otherwise damaged; by and large, our mail system is dependable and secure. Having lived in another country, I know that that isn't always the case with other postal services.
I appreciate that I can send mail to my friends across these States. It's just nice to be able to do that, even though I live so far from so many. And yes, I know there is email. But you can't email a present! :)
What are you grateful for today?
Sunday, March 16, 2014
The Ability to Read
I've talked a lot about reading in some of my grateful posts. Mostly my efforts to read DON QUIXOTE. Which I'm thankfully only about 150 pages away from being finished! So I can then move on to my next book, which is waiting for me to pick it up at the library: The Book Thief.
Every morning, during Baby Girl's first bottle, I read a chapter or two out loud to her (and for me) from The Book of Mormon.
I read tons of facebook posts daily (sometimes hourly...).
I read recipes (even if most of the recipes I generally try also have a picture attached).
I read cereal boxes -- or anything else that happens to be sitting around while I'm sitting at the table eating breakfast.
The point is, I read. And I love it.
But I often take it for granted that I can.
For as long as I can remember (though I know it hasn't always been true), I have been able to read. And because it is so commonplace to me, because I can't remember a time when I couldn't, I tend to forget that there are those in this world who are not born into circumstances which allow them the privilege of learning how to read.
But in those rare moments (which hopefully will be less rare in the future) when I recognize this blessing I have been given, it occurs to me what a tragedy it would be if I couldn't read.
I find joy in being sucked into a good book. It is an escape for me (which I is why I mostly only like the ones with happy endings). I find knowledge as I delve into non-fiction books on topics that interest me. Sometimes I laugh. Sometimes I cry. Sometimes I can't wait to get through whatever it is I'm reading.
What would it be like not to have this ability? I truly cannot imagine. Reading is something I love. True, I generally prefer to read for pleasure. But I am grateful I could read for my education.
I hope to pass on my love of reading to my little girl and any other children we (hopefully) have one day. And so I am grateful I can hold her on my lap and read to her, to instill in her a love of reading and an understanding of what a blessing and privilege it is to read (even if right now, she'd rather try to eat them than read them). Because it is true what Emilie Buchwald said: "Children are made readers on the laps of their parents."
I am grateful I was born in a time and place in which attending school was a given and learning to read was a right. Grateful for teachers who taught me and parents who encouraged me. Grateful for parents who read to me, but also read for themselves and allowed us to see their love of reading. The ability to read truly is a gift... A gift that has opened up the world to me.
What are you grateful for today?
Every morning, during Baby Girl's first bottle, I read a chapter or two out loud to her (and for me) from The Book of Mormon.
I read tons of facebook posts daily (sometimes hourly...).
I read recipes (even if most of the recipes I generally try also have a picture attached).
I read cereal boxes -- or anything else that happens to be sitting around while I'm sitting at the table eating breakfast.
The point is, I read. And I love it.
But I often take it for granted that I can.
For as long as I can remember (though I know it hasn't always been true), I have been able to read. And because it is so commonplace to me, because I can't remember a time when I couldn't, I tend to forget that there are those in this world who are not born into circumstances which allow them the privilege of learning how to read.
But in those rare moments (which hopefully will be less rare in the future) when I recognize this blessing I have been given, it occurs to me what a tragedy it would be if I couldn't read.
I find joy in being sucked into a good book. It is an escape for me (which I is why I mostly only like the ones with happy endings). I find knowledge as I delve into non-fiction books on topics that interest me. Sometimes I laugh. Sometimes I cry. Sometimes I can't wait to get through whatever it is I'm reading.
What would it be like not to have this ability? I truly cannot imagine. Reading is something I love. True, I generally prefer to read for pleasure. But I am grateful I could read for my education.
I hope to pass on my love of reading to my little girl and any other children we (hopefully) have one day. And so I am grateful I can hold her on my lap and read to her, to instill in her a love of reading and an understanding of what a blessing and privilege it is to read (even if right now, she'd rather try to eat them than read them). Because it is true what Emilie Buchwald said: "Children are made readers on the laps of their parents."
I am grateful I was born in a time and place in which attending school was a given and learning to read was a right. Grateful for teachers who taught me and parents who encouraged me. Grateful for parents who read to me, but also read for themselves and allowed us to see their love of reading. The ability to read truly is a gift... A gift that has opened up the world to me.
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Home
As much as I love to go and do, it's always nice to come home. Even when we have had a blast elsewhere.
I've mentioned before that I'm grateful for our nice warm shelter... which is our house.
But I think it's also a blessing when that house is a home. A place where I want to be.
There have been times in my life when the two didn't go hand-in-hand. When home wasn't a place I enjoyed being, and I wanted to be anywhere but there.
Thankfully, those times have been few... and temporary.
I'm grateful for our home. A place where love resides. A place where we grow and learn, make mistakes and forgive, apologize and try again. A place of comfort and peace. A safe haven. A sanctuary. A place where we strive to have the Spirit reside.
Home.
It feels good to be here.
What are you grateful for today?
I've mentioned before that I'm grateful for our nice warm shelter... which is our house.
But I think it's also a blessing when that house is a home. A place where I want to be.
There have been times in my life when the two didn't go hand-in-hand. When home wasn't a place I enjoyed being, and I wanted to be anywhere but there.
Thankfully, those times have been few... and temporary.
I'm grateful for our home. A place where love resides. A place where we grow and learn, make mistakes and forgive, apologize and try again. A place of comfort and peace. A safe haven. A sanctuary. A place where we strive to have the Spirit reside.
Home.
It feels good to be here.
What are you grateful for today?
Friday, March 14, 2014
Mini Vacations
I love getting away, even if only for a night.
Tonight, we're going to stay with my awesome brother- and sister-in-law.
It's just nice to get away from the routine... And even better when you know there's awesomely fun people with whom to spend time with and visit!!!
And since we are literally about to walk out the door... that's all I have to say about that...
What are you grateful for today?
Tonight, we're going to stay with my awesome brother- and sister-in-law.
It's just nice to get away from the routine... And even better when you know there's awesomely fun people with whom to spend time with and visit!!!
And since we are literally about to walk out the door... that's all I have to say about that...
What are you grateful for today?
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Opportunities to Serve and Help Others
In recent weeks, we have had many opportunities to serve and help others...
Whether it has been helping clean a church building; watching kiddos so moms could go to dental appointments or so parents could have a lunch date; or taking a meal to people who are under the weather... The opportunities to serve have all been blessings for us.
They have been blessings for me.
I noticed last year that I had several moments of feeling really down and discouraged. I started feeling really lousy about myself and found it easy to sink into a pit of self-pity -- which just creates this horrible vicious cycle.
So this year, I made a goal to look outward more. Because I decided if I did, I wouldn't have as much time to start feeling sorry for myself.
Maybe that's a selfish reason to set that as a goal.
But I certainly have been blessed with opportunities to serve others as I have followed through with my goal to look outward more. The opportunities are always all around. I just needed to start looking for them more.
I know I can still do so much more than I do. I know there are many people who need a listening ear, a kind smile, an unexpected visit... And I am grateful I am given opportunities, at times, to be the person who helps and serves in those capacities. It is making me a better person. It is teaching me to be kinder and more loving.
And those are blessings indeed.
What are you grateful for today?
Whether it has been helping clean a church building; watching kiddos so moms could go to dental appointments or so parents could have a lunch date; or taking a meal to people who are under the weather... The opportunities to serve have all been blessings for us.
They have been blessings for me.
I noticed last year that I had several moments of feeling really down and discouraged. I started feeling really lousy about myself and found it easy to sink into a pit of self-pity -- which just creates this horrible vicious cycle.
So this year, I made a goal to look outward more. Because I decided if I did, I wouldn't have as much time to start feeling sorry for myself.
Maybe that's a selfish reason to set that as a goal.
But I certainly have been blessed with opportunities to serve others as I have followed through with my goal to look outward more. The opportunities are always all around. I just needed to start looking for them more.
I know I can still do so much more than I do. I know there are many people who need a listening ear, a kind smile, an unexpected visit... And I am grateful I am given opportunities, at times, to be the person who helps and serves in those capacities. It is making me a better person. It is teaching me to be kinder and more loving.
And those are blessings indeed.
What are you grateful for today?
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
This French Bread Recipe
So, I love Pinterest. Especially the food category.
And one day, I happened upon this French Bread recipe. So a few months back, I decided to try it. I had all the ingredients on hand (very basic ingredients, so that was easy), and I was craving some delicious home-made bread.
This did NOT disappoint! The very first time I ate it, I ate almost half a loaf of bread by myself when it was warm out of the oven (I think my sweetie was on swing-shift at the time...).
These are the reasons I love this recipe and am grateful to have found it (aside from its deliciousness, which is reason enough to make it):
1. The ingredients are simple.
2. It's easy to make. Yes, it takes time with the dough having to rise and such... But, really, once you get this dough made, the work is done.
3. It makes a lot of bread. I usually let mine rise to quite large loaves, too.
4. It freezes phenomenally well. Because it makes so much, I usually cut the loaves in half and freeze 3 of the 4 halves (we usually eat one half fresh). Today, I froze the two large loaves and we ate the whole small loaf. I love that I can do the work once and eat bread with soups or pastas for 3 more meals later on by just defrosting a loaf.
5. I love bread. Especially yeast bread. And I'm really loving making home-made bread. And this one is a winner.
Here's the recipe (and the blog address from where it originally comes):
2 1/2 c. warm water
2 Tbls. yeast
3 Tbls. sugar
2 Tbls. white vinegar
1 Tbls. salt
1/3 c. oil (I use Canola)
6-7 c. flour
Mix first 4 ingredients in a large bowl and let sit 3 to 5 minutes until a little bubbly and frothy.
Add salt and oil, stir. Add flour one cup at a time until dough is soft, but firm enough to mold into loaves. Put in greased bowl in the oven with a pot of boiling water (boiling water will help keep dough moist). Allow to rise to top of bowl (about 45 minutes) and punch down. Allow to rise again. Do this 2 to 5 times (as you have time available).
Empty dough out onto a greased surface and separate into two equal parts. Form into rectangular/french bread loaves and slash each loaf on top 3 to 5 times. Allow to rise 30 minutes or until they reach the size you want. Brush with beaten egg. Bake 25 to 30 minutes at 375.
Recipe makes 2 large loaves or 3 medium sized loaves.
Recipe from dealstomeals.blogspot.com
2 Tbls. yeast
3 Tbls. sugar
2 Tbls. white vinegar
1 Tbls. salt
1/3 c. oil (I use Canola)
6-7 c. flour
Mix first 4 ingredients in a large bowl and let sit 3 to 5 minutes until a little bubbly and frothy.
Add salt and oil, stir. Add flour one cup at a time until dough is soft, but firm enough to mold into loaves. Put in greased bowl in the oven with a pot of boiling water (boiling water will help keep dough moist). Allow to rise to top of bowl (about 45 minutes) and punch down. Allow to rise again. Do this 2 to 5 times (as you have time available).
Empty dough out onto a greased surface and separate into two equal parts. Form into rectangular/french bread loaves and slash each loaf on top 3 to 5 times. Allow to rise 30 minutes or until they reach the size you want. Brush with beaten egg. Bake 25 to 30 minutes at 375.
Recipe makes 2 large loaves or 3 medium sized loaves.
Recipe from dealstomeals.blogspot.com
And here are a couple of notes as to how it's worked out for me:
1. I usually use about 7 cups of flour, but usually end up adding the last cup by hand while kneading on the counter.
2. I usually bake 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of my loaves. When I have 2 large loaves, it's 25 minutes. Today I had 2 large plus one little and I did the little loaf for only 20 or 22 minutes.
3. I sprinkle cornmeal on a cookie sheet and place the dough loaves on that... Mostly just for funsies.
4. I once tried it with wheat (only about 1/4 of it wheat), and it didn't turn out as delicious. So I don't do that anymore.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
My Baby's Laugh
Today was an awesome day.
The sun was shining, and I could feel Spring in the air. I didn't even wear a sweater to run errands!
Baby Girl was totally happy pretty much all day today (there were those 5 minutes of fussiness at the end of baby story time, but that's bound to happen when she's an hour overdue for a nap!). I think her awesome sleep last night helped contribute to her happy mood.
So on days like today, it's easy to think of a million things that made my day.
But today, I'm picking my baby girl's laugh. Because it makes my heart super-happy. And today, I heard her squeal and laugh a lot as we visited with my friend Pam. Because Pam has a little dog who would come scampering up to the couch where my sweet girl was sitting next to me. The dog would put his little paws on the couch and sniff so excitedly that my baby girl just giggled and giggled and giggled!
Such a precious sound. And so contagious! I couldn't help but laugh with her!
I love her happiness. I love the joy she brings to me in so many ways... including her laughter.
What are you grateful for today?
The sun was shining, and I could feel Spring in the air. I didn't even wear a sweater to run errands!
Baby Girl was totally happy pretty much all day today (there were those 5 minutes of fussiness at the end of baby story time, but that's bound to happen when she's an hour overdue for a nap!). I think her awesome sleep last night helped contribute to her happy mood.
So on days like today, it's easy to think of a million things that made my day.
But today, I'm picking my baby girl's laugh. Because it makes my heart super-happy. And today, I heard her squeal and laugh a lot as we visited with my friend Pam. Because Pam has a little dog who would come scampering up to the couch where my sweet girl was sitting next to me. The dog would put his little paws on the couch and sniff so excitedly that my baby girl just giggled and giggled and giggled!
Such a precious sound. And so contagious! I couldn't help but laugh with her!
I love her happiness. I love the joy she brings to me in so many ways... including her laughter.
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, March 10, 2014
Our Deep Freezer
For quite some time after we got married, the hubby and I wanted a deep freezer. We weren't picky as to whether it was an upright or chest freezer. We just wanted one.
Me, because I get excited about the prospect of frozen food storage (like 30 bags of frozen zucchini).
The husband, because he agrees with that sentiment about food storage. And also because he was highly annoyed with how much I packed into our regular freezer. There may have been a couple of times when things came falling out when he opened the freezer door...
As it happened, some friends of ours moved away and wanted to get rid of their freezer. And we were only too happy to take it off their hands!!! And we have been so excited to have it ever since!
Now I can pre-make dry beans and freeze them. I can pre-shred cheese and freeze it... I can pick tons and tons of berries and freeze them... I can grow (and grate) a ton of zucchini and freeze it (and make zucchini bread year-round!)... I can make chicken stock or turkey stock and freeze it... And I still have plenty of room for frozen juice and stocking up on meat when it's on sale and butter from Costco... Yeah, this thing stays well-used!
Yep, I love my deep freezer. I love that it helps our family be more prepared... and have a decluttered kitchen-freezer ;)
What are you grateful for today?
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Carolyn C.
Have you ever met someone who, when you really got to know that person, really surprised you? Like in a good way...
Carolyn C is one of those people for me. I met her at church, and when I first moved here, she was the Sunday School teacher for adults. In the almost 6 years that I've known her, I have come to really love her. And learn a lot from her.
Here's why:
She is a wonderful example of work and preparation. In all the times I've had the privilege of sitting in one of her classes, she has always been thorough and prepared. I know she has taken time to prepare that much. It was a sacrifice on her part, but she cared about what she was doing. And that is a great example to me, the last-minute-procrastinator.
She is a wonderful example of strength and courage and doing. She is not idle. She believes in fulfilling her callings to the best of her ability, whether that is teaching a lesson on Sunday or visiting several other women each month to see how they are doing and to share a gospel message (this is called Visiting Teaching). She is constant and reliable. And she genuinely cares.
She has taught me how to be more generous and giving. She has shown me how to give the best in material things. Like Pampers brand diapers. She currently teaches the 9/10/11 Sunday School class (for kids those ages), and I know she always brings treats for her class. But whenever there is a special occasion, she likes to bring a special treat for all the Primary children. I currently teach the kids who used to be in her Sunday School class, and one thing they've told me is that they know she loved them as her students. What a great thing.
And she has taught me about humility. The way I got to know her the best (and where she surprised me the most) was when we served together in the Relief Society presidency. For those not of our faith, this may not make any sense. But basically, she and I were counselors (sort of like assistants) to the woman who was, at that time, called to serve as the Relief Society president for our congregation. Now, Carolyn had many years of experience in leadership callings. And I'm pretty sure she'd served, at some point in the past, as a Relief Society president somewhere. And perhaps, for some with that same background, it would be easy to try to "take over," feeling more qualified. But not Carolyn. She believed, as I did -- and do -- that our Relief Society president at that time was called of God to be the Relief Society president. That she (the president) was blessed to receive revelation from Heavenly Father specifically for our group of women. That Carolyn's calling (and mine) were to assist and even advise, but never to overshadow or takeover. Carolyn respected that calling, and though her personality is a strong one, I never saw anything but respect and humility in her. And that taught me so much.
I also learned, during that time, that she and I think a lot alike about certain things. That she, too, can get up on a soapbox about things. And I loved her for it. I still do. She makes me laugh.
And the thing is this: I'm grateful that the plan Heavenly Father has for my life included me meeting and working with and getting to know Carolyn. Because she has been a blessing indeed.
What are you grateful for today?
Carolyn C is one of those people for me. I met her at church, and when I first moved here, she was the Sunday School teacher for adults. In the almost 6 years that I've known her, I have come to really love her. And learn a lot from her.
Here's why:
She is a wonderful example of work and preparation. In all the times I've had the privilege of sitting in one of her classes, she has always been thorough and prepared. I know she has taken time to prepare that much. It was a sacrifice on her part, but she cared about what she was doing. And that is a great example to me, the last-minute-procrastinator.
She is a wonderful example of strength and courage and doing. She is not idle. She believes in fulfilling her callings to the best of her ability, whether that is teaching a lesson on Sunday or visiting several other women each month to see how they are doing and to share a gospel message (this is called Visiting Teaching). She is constant and reliable. And she genuinely cares.
She has taught me how to be more generous and giving. She has shown me how to give the best in material things. Like Pampers brand diapers. She currently teaches the 9/10/11 Sunday School class (for kids those ages), and I know she always brings treats for her class. But whenever there is a special occasion, she likes to bring a special treat for all the Primary children. I currently teach the kids who used to be in her Sunday School class, and one thing they've told me is that they know she loved them as her students. What a great thing.
And she has taught me about humility. The way I got to know her the best (and where she surprised me the most) was when we served together in the Relief Society presidency. For those not of our faith, this may not make any sense. But basically, she and I were counselors (sort of like assistants) to the woman who was, at that time, called to serve as the Relief Society president for our congregation. Now, Carolyn had many years of experience in leadership callings. And I'm pretty sure she'd served, at some point in the past, as a Relief Society president somewhere. And perhaps, for some with that same background, it would be easy to try to "take over," feeling more qualified. But not Carolyn. She believed, as I did -- and do -- that our Relief Society president at that time was called of God to be the Relief Society president. That she (the president) was blessed to receive revelation from Heavenly Father specifically for our group of women. That Carolyn's calling (and mine) were to assist and even advise, but never to overshadow or takeover. Carolyn respected that calling, and though her personality is a strong one, I never saw anything but respect and humility in her. And that taught me so much.
I also learned, during that time, that she and I think a lot alike about certain things. That she, too, can get up on a soapbox about things. And I loved her for it. I still do. She makes me laugh.
And the thing is this: I'm grateful that the plan Heavenly Father has for my life included me meeting and working with and getting to know Carolyn. Because she has been a blessing indeed.
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Baby Showers
Today I helped a friend shower a new mom-to-be.
There's just something wonderful about celebrating a new life. There is so much happiness and excitement. So many stories shared among women. Birth stories, baby stories, lack of sleep stories...
And, foodie that I am, I have to admit the food is always an enjoyable part for me!
Today, it was just nice to get away from the routine. To take time out to play games and visit with other women. To see the excitement on a friend's face as she anticipates the arrival of her first bundle of joy... Even if she doesn't yet quite fully know what she's getting into!
It's funny, really... Less than a year ago, I was in that very same position. Fantasizing about parenthood and the picture-perfect ideals I had in my mind.
But it's incredibly awesome to also know that, even knowing what I know now... I'd do it all over again. Because it is so worth it... Even when reality isn't quite what I pictured (... in most ways, it's better!).
So yes, today's baby shower made my day happier. And I'm so grateful I could be a part of it and help celebrate this exciting event :).
What are you grateful for today?
There's just something wonderful about celebrating a new life. There is so much happiness and excitement. So many stories shared among women. Birth stories, baby stories, lack of sleep stories...
And, foodie that I am, I have to admit the food is always an enjoyable part for me!
Today, it was just nice to get away from the routine. To take time out to play games and visit with other women. To see the excitement on a friend's face as she anticipates the arrival of her first bundle of joy... Even if she doesn't yet quite fully know what she's getting into!
It's funny, really... Less than a year ago, I was in that very same position. Fantasizing about parenthood and the picture-perfect ideals I had in my mind.
But it's incredibly awesome to also know that, even knowing what I know now... I'd do it all over again. Because it is so worth it... Even when reality isn't quite what I pictured (... in most ways, it's better!).
So yes, today's baby shower made my day happier. And I'm so grateful I could be a part of it and help celebrate this exciting event :).
What are you grateful for today?
Friday, March 7, 2014
Our TV
True, our TV is not one of those high-definition super-light flat-screens.
But our TV is ours, it works, and we got it for free from a friend and former co-worker of mine. And that makes it wonderful!
One day, I'm sure we'll get around to upgrading. I do like the idea of being able to mount the tv on the wall (especially now that Baby Girl can stand up and press all the buttons...).
But until then, we will enjoy and appreciate the TV we have. Because it makes at-home date nights with movies and ice cream quite enjoyable.
And for that, I am grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Our Changing Table
Our changing table was a gift from several of my former co-workers at the funeral home.
Prior to receiving this changing table (a true surprise indeed!), we didn't have any intentions of actually getting one. We figured we could fashion something to use as a changing table... or use the floor.
But now that I know the joys of this changing table, I just don't think I could ever go back! I use this changing table about 6 times a day: for diapers, changing clothes, drying off after a bath... It is definitely one of our most well-used baby items!
And I love that it comes with a hamper for baby girl's clothes. That is just so nice and convenient to be able to toss her dirty clothes in there. It keeps her stuff separate from ours (which is only really significant when some of her stuff requires a delicate wash, but it's nice that I can just throw her whole load in on delicate wash and not have to sort out the delicate items). And it's also nicely equipped with drawers for her diapers, wipes, and burp rags!
I'm pretty much grateful for this changing table every day. It has been, is, and will be saving my (old-lady) back for a long time!
What are you grateful for today?
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Cell Phones
True, I've been grateful for texting in the past... Which is pretty much impossible without a cell phone...
But today, while I was walking around Costco and remembering I was supposed to buy a pair of jeans for my husband... my cell phone came to the rescue!
See, I totally forgot to actually write jeans on the Costco list. Which means I also forgot to write down the size of jeans I'm supposed to get. And men's pants are all complicated-like. With two numbers to remember, not just one, like for women's pants :). I thought I remembered the numbers. But then you also have to remember which order they were given. Because one means waist size and one means length.
And I couldn't remember which was which.
So who could I ask? Who would know which number was waist and which was length? Well, a guy would be my best bet.
But what guy could I get in touch with from Costco?!? My husband doesn't take his cell phone to work with him, so I couldn't ask him.
And then I remembered Jon. My reliable best Juliebean's hubby. So I shot a text to him. And he shot one back to let me know the first number is for waist.
Yep, Jon and my cell phone totally saved the day today. And yeah, it's true I got one of the numbers wrong (bought one size too big in the waist), but considering I almost bought some that were too small in the waist and 2 sizes too long in length... I think I didn't do too badly. And now I know!
So I'm grateful for my cell phone, that enables me to call -- or text -- from almost anywhere to almost anywhere when I need some help :).
(Though we haven't yet taken the step into the world of smart-phones, which would also have been helpful today!)
What are you grateful for today?
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Play Time With My Baby
This evening, in the 30 minutes after eating dinner and before I went for a walk, I sat down to play with my baby.
And as I made her bunny hop-hop-hippety-hop over to her and kiss her... As I made her dolly play peek-a-boo from behind the bunny... As I heard her giggle and squeal in delight over such simple actions on my part... Well, I just knew that was my grateful for today.
And I also realized that I am taking these moments for granted.
How easy it is to get swept up in all the doing.
The laundry must get washed and folded...
The dusting must get done...
The dishes must get washed...
The dinner made...
The exercising (miraculously) accomplished.
I want the quilts to get progressed...
The cross-stitch ornaments to get finished...
Don Quixote to find its way back onto my bookshelf (or maybe into a donation pile!?!) and finally off of my to-read list...
The cookbook to be completed...
And play-time starts to fall by the wayside.
Because it's always an option, right? It'll be there tomorrow, won't it?
But there will be a tomorrow when it won't be, of that I am sure.
And so today, as I listened to my sweet girl laugh... As I watched her clap while I rolled the "rain-stick" ball her way (and watched her bat it -- not necessarily back towards me ;))... As I observed her find -- and eat cheerios that had been on the carpet since lunchtime in between playing with Mommy... I realized what a joy it is to play with my little angel. What a privilege it is to be one of her favorite playmates. Today, those moments of playing were the second best of my whole day (second only to the sleeping snuggles right before I put her down for the night... Because I think those will always be my most treasured moments, for as long as she'll allow me to have them).
And even if I'm staying up late to finish the dishes or fold the laundry or sew that row of the quilt... I know I chose the better part. Because my sweet baby is more important than any of those things. And I hope I can always remember that.
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, March 3, 2014
Dental Care AND Dental Insurance
I have this horrifying recurring dream. Or maybe I should say nightmare. It changes in detail, but the gist of it is that my teeth start falling out. I'll be flossing or something and start noticing my tooth is loose. And then another one is loose. And they get more and more loose until they fall out. One after another after another. And I can actually feel the tender mushy flesh where my teeth used to be after the teeth fall out.
It creeps me out.
Those dreams have definitely helped encourage me to be an avid teeth-brusher. And I'm working on the flossing thing. One of my goals this year is to floss daily. I'd say I'm at about 75% success on that. At night, I'm lazy. I brush my teeth and don't want to spend the extra 3 to 5 minutes flossing (sad, I know). So I've started brushing and flossing mid-day. Makes it so I'm more hit than miss.
Those dreams also keep me making -- and keeping -- my 6-month teeth cleanings. And that's just what I did today. I had my preventative care appointment. Which makes me ever so grateful I live in a time when dental care is a topic of importance. I'm grateful we know how important tooth-care is to our general health. I'm grateful that there are dentists and dental hygienists who care about helping people take care of their teeth! I'm grateful for technology and knowledge that allows cavities to be filled before they become horror stories.
And I'm grateful for dental insurance. It helps me keep those appointments, because most of the time, if it's just a routine visit, the cleaning is covered at 100%. During the times when I didn't have dental insurance and didn't feel I could afford even the cost of the cleaning, I would let those appointments lapse. Which isn't really the best plan, but sometimes... Well, sometimes you make sacrifices becasue you must. I'm also grateful that, when it's not routine (though recently this hasn't been an issue... another thing for which I am grateful!), my insurance usually covers a large portion of whatever the cost is for fixing a problem.
Because, frankly, I'm grateful for my teeth too. And I hope to keep them for all my life. And to not have the horrors of my nightmares become reality!
And I'm grateful that I can, because of dental insurance, also begin preparing to give good dental care to my daughter. And I'm grateful to have a sister-in-law who is a dental hygienist and who gave us a little toothbrush and a finger sock to brush our munchkin's teeth until she's old enough to use the toothbrush. And I love that my sweet girl already knows what it means when I don that sock on my finger and hold it up to her mouth. She opens wide and lets me do the brushing!
What are you grateful for today?
It creeps me out.
Those dreams have definitely helped encourage me to be an avid teeth-brusher. And I'm working on the flossing thing. One of my goals this year is to floss daily. I'd say I'm at about 75% success on that. At night, I'm lazy. I brush my teeth and don't want to spend the extra 3 to 5 minutes flossing (sad, I know). So I've started brushing and flossing mid-day. Makes it so I'm more hit than miss.
Those dreams also keep me making -- and keeping -- my 6-month teeth cleanings. And that's just what I did today. I had my preventative care appointment. Which makes me ever so grateful I live in a time when dental care is a topic of importance. I'm grateful we know how important tooth-care is to our general health. I'm grateful that there are dentists and dental hygienists who care about helping people take care of their teeth! I'm grateful for technology and knowledge that allows cavities to be filled before they become horror stories.
And I'm grateful for dental insurance. It helps me keep those appointments, because most of the time, if it's just a routine visit, the cleaning is covered at 100%. During the times when I didn't have dental insurance and didn't feel I could afford even the cost of the cleaning, I would let those appointments lapse. Which isn't really the best plan, but sometimes... Well, sometimes you make sacrifices becasue you must. I'm also grateful that, when it's not routine (though recently this hasn't been an issue... another thing for which I am grateful!), my insurance usually covers a large portion of whatever the cost is for fixing a problem.
Because, frankly, I'm grateful for my teeth too. And I hope to keep them for all my life. And to not have the horrors of my nightmares become reality!
And I'm grateful that I can, because of dental insurance, also begin preparing to give good dental care to my daughter. And I'm grateful to have a sister-in-law who is a dental hygienist and who gave us a little toothbrush and a finger sock to brush our munchkin's teeth until she's old enough to use the toothbrush. And I love that my sweet girl already knows what it means when I don that sock on my finger and hold it up to her mouth. She opens wide and lets me do the brushing!
What are you grateful for today?
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Stake Conference
Today was Stake Conference at church. What this means is that several different congregations (known as wards or branches, depending on size) of our faith in our area gathered together in a meeting and listened to our local leaders give us direction. This event happens twice a year. When we were in Alabama in November, it was happening there.
Stake Conference is always a blessing. True, it's a little harder these days with a 9 month old who isn't so interested in staying in one place for 2+ hours...
But it's ALWAYS a blessing.
It's uplifting and beneficial. And I am taught much. I am given the opportunity to reflect, to contemplate. To examine where I am and where I want to be.
To ponder who I am and who I want to become.
For me, this time, the things that stood out to me were these:
1. To stand for truth at all times.
2. To be more benevolent. Which includes disposing of the envy and jealousy to which I am often easily prone.
3. To take better care of my physical body through exercise.
4. To be the hand that helps and the heart that knows compassion.
These are the ways I can improve right now.
I believe that our leaders receive revelation from Heavenly Father. That they share messages the Lord wants us to hear -- that He wants me to hear. And I believe that I am better for having attended Stake Conference and heard the counsel shared there. I am grateful for Stake Conference. To me, it is a joy.
What are you grateful for today?
Stake Conference is always a blessing. True, it's a little harder these days with a 9 month old who isn't so interested in staying in one place for 2+ hours...
But it's ALWAYS a blessing.
It's uplifting and beneficial. And I am taught much. I am given the opportunity to reflect, to contemplate. To examine where I am and where I want to be.
To ponder who I am and who I want to become.
For me, this time, the things that stood out to me were these:
1. To stand for truth at all times.
2. To be more benevolent. Which includes disposing of the envy and jealousy to which I am often easily prone.
3. To take better care of my physical body through exercise.
4. To be the hand that helps and the heart that knows compassion.
These are the ways I can improve right now.
I believe that our leaders receive revelation from Heavenly Father. That they share messages the Lord wants us to hear -- that He wants me to hear. And I believe that I am better for having attended Stake Conference and heard the counsel shared there. I am grateful for Stake Conference. To me, it is a joy.
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Afternoon Naps
On days that start early with not-your-every-day work activities...
And that end later-than-anticipated...
And with lots of good stuff in-between (like dinner out with the husband and baby... and Stake Conference... and cleaning up from last night's dinner... and sewing rows of quilts)...
On days like this, I'm grateful for afternoon naps. They refuel me and help me make it to midnight, even when I was planning to be awake at this time!
And since tomorrow we have more Stake Conference for church, which means morning church instead of afternoon church...
It's looking like I will be getting another afternoon nap tomorrow! (As long as I can convince Baby Girl that naps are a great thing!)
What are you grateful for today?
And that end later-than-anticipated...
And with lots of good stuff in-between (like dinner out with the husband and baby... and Stake Conference... and cleaning up from last night's dinner... and sewing rows of quilts)...
On days like this, I'm grateful for afternoon naps. They refuel me and help me make it to midnight, even when I was planning to be awake at this time!
And since tomorrow we have more Stake Conference for church, which means morning church instead of afternoon church...
It's looking like I will be getting another afternoon nap tomorrow! (As long as I can convince Baby Girl that naps are a great thing!)
What are you grateful for today?
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