Thankful Thursday

The past week and half has been a chaotic blur, mostly of fun stuff.  In the last 10 days I helped with AJ's Field Day, had a PTA Board meeting, drove to South Carolina to visit Kara, had Luke's last day of school (complete with stuffed summer bags and teachers' gifts), did a triathlon, put on Audrey's class party, and had her last day of school.  

Shew.  I'm tired, y'all.  

On Tuesday I took a nap and didn't feel the least bit guilty about it.  I hope there are a few more in my future this summer, but I am also anxious to turn my attention back to getting the house under control.  It has definitely been neglected the past couple of months and there will be a number of organization projects on the to-do list this summer! Of course, there will also be a LOT of time soaking up my sweet almost-seven year old second grader (?!) and almost pre-K baby.  

Those two goals are already underway on this our first official day.  We spent nearly two hours cleaning out the garage (still more to do) and then had a relaxing "spa party" (soaked our feet in a bubble bath and painted AJ's nails) followed by lunch the deck.  Audrey asked if our summer motto was going to be "work hard, play hard."  :) She knows me well. 

Here is this week's TT list:

1.  A wonderful first grade year for Audrey.  I think there are several things to attribute this to:  having her Celiac diagnosed and under control, her teacher, her classmates, and her being a lot more challenged than she was in kindergarten.  I always loved school and it made me so sad to think she wouldn't enjoy it, but this year changed her attitude and outlook.  She is experiencing a lot of bittersweet emotions at the end of the school year, but I'm thankful she had such a great year of things worth missing.  

2.  A goal realized.  On Saturday I completed my triathlon and I'm still reeling from it.  I put in a lot of training hours and frankly, a lot of stress and worry about achieving this goal and it finally came to fruition.  I hope to write a full post on it soon.  

3.  A Southern garden.  My hydrangeas are in full bloom (they didn't bloom last year, so it's especially sweet!), as are my gardenias.  The azaleas looked gorgeous a few weeks ago and the crepe myrtles and new magnolia tree will take their turns soon.  I am giddy over a) not having killed everything and b) having it be full of so many quintessentially southern plants.

4.  Kara's progress.  Her official diagnosis is CIPD, which is basically chronic GBS.  BUT, her neurologist fully expects to find a treatment plan that will bring her back to 100% and keep her there.  When I went to see her last week, she was doing amazingly well.  She is driving by herself and even working out at her gym (mostly swimming...she is officially doing as many laps in her workout as I am and $10 bucks says she's crushing my time, too.)  The day I visited marked two months since her diagnosis and admittance to the hospital, and I was just astounded at how far she'd come.  Please pray that continues!

5.  David!  Tomorrow is his 35th birthday.  We may be getting older (thankfully him faster than me ;) ) but he will always be my hard-working, handsome, intelligent, funny, Jesus-loving, baby-daddy, golf extraordinaire and I am so grateful for him.  

Enjoying some Icee treats with friends to celebrate the end of school!  

Happy Summer!

Thankful Thursday

1.  Being back in the running saddle.  I have taken a long time off from running outdoors.  A looooong time.  Ever since I was a teenager I would jog off and on, usually just enjoying it in the spring and fall or getting into a routine before the occasional race.  Since the spring of 2013, however, I have been incredibly faithful to the sport, rarely taking more than a week or two off regardless of weather.  Back in November, though, I decided to add swimming to my workout routine and have been focusing on that and biking or doing the elliptical, which fulfilled my cardio requirements.  I've been doing a couple miles on the treadmill once a week when I do brick workouts, but other than that, my feet haven't pounded pavement since early December.  Now that the temperatures are warming up, I decided it was time.  I was admittedly nervous when I headed out, but because I've been doing other cardio, I did way better than I thought I would.  And man, did it feel good to know a) I still had it and b) it's still the amazing release that it always has been.  

2.  Teachers!  It's Teacher Appreciation Week at both kids' schools this week, which has been no easy feat.  I planned themes, constantly communicated with parents of both classes,  bought gifts, put together a Shutterfly book for AJ's teacher, and even subbed for her class for a little while the teacher attended a PTA luncheon.  Like I say, Teacher Appreciation Week is when I get exhausted working hard to show gratitude for people that work ten times as hard for 35 times longer.  God bless 'em.

3.  Margin.  Last Spring was when I first started contemplating quitting my job.  I had zero "blank space" in my life and it was starting to choke me.  We were just getting our feet wet with the Celiac diagnosis, we were potty training Luke, I was balancing Teacher Appreciation Week and Kindergarten Market Day, I was hitting frustrating walls with the Timber Trek, and David was working a ton of long hours.  We had a million other little things going on and life was just doing a number on me.  Don't get me wrong, things are still busy around here, but there seems to be a bit more breathing room these days.  I know that's partially because the kids are getting older and Luke is in preschool two mornings a week, but the biggest reason is because I'm not working anymore.  Those few hours a week I got back are just what I needed to better stay on top of stuff.  (Yes, I realize just by writing this that I am dooming myself to forget a kid somewhere or drop the ball in some other huge way.)  But overall, I'm at least beginning to be able to do things at the pace and timing I prefer (which we all know is way before they actually need doing, but whatever, man) and it feels so much nicer.  

4.  Coffee.  It used to be that I would only drink a cup of caffeinated coffee a couple of times a week and do decaf or nothing the other mornings.  I'm not exactly sure when that changed, but I now have one cup of caffeinated every single day.  And truthfully, I kinda live for that mug-sipping moment of joy each morning.  Anticipating it has gotten me through more than one tough workout.  If I had known what a better mood it would put me in, I would've switched to having regular every day a long time ago. 

5.  Time with the Taylors!  Kara and the kids came through town on Friday evening on the way to her parents' house and we got to have a playdate and pizza picnic with them (and the bonus of two of her sister's sweet kiddos, too!)  We love picking up right where we left off whenever we hang out with them.  

The girls enjoying the tire swing.

Audrey and Charleigh (at 9 months) have been 

swing buddies for quite some time.

That's it for this week!  Enjoy spring and the beautiful blooms everywhere!

Thankful Thursday

1.  Obviously Luke and his fourth birthday!  I wrote a post about the party here in case you missed it.  We had the best day together on his actual birthday of Monday as well.  I played whatever he wanted to play (for the record, it was his new card game "War" and the matching game about half a dozen times each...) and only ran one quick errand to the post office.  When we got finished there, we explored around the small downtown area and stumbled on a little library box.  Just like it sounds, it's a small box on a post where people can take or leave books for others in the community to enjoy.  We sat on a nearby bench and read a few kids books and then moseyed around some more.  That night we took him out to Five Guys for dinner and then home for a cupcake and to open his new Imaginext Batcave and tie-blanket that Audrey and I made for him.  It was a great, nostalgic day enjoying my not-so-baby baby boy.  

Warning:  Bragging Mommy alert.  Sorry...

2.  A great parent-teacher conference for AJ.  David, Audrey, and I met with Audrey's teacher yesterday (students join in for the second conference of the year) and were super proud to hear how well our girl is doing.  She is reading on a 4.8 (4th grade, 8th month) STAR reading level and ranks in the 99th percentile.  She is doing fantastic in math and writing as well.  One of her own personal goals she wrote out was "to improve my handwriting".  Well you and me both, sister.  We took her out to celebrate at Yogi Mogli just the three of us and gushed over her a little.  Not only is she doing so well in school, but David and I were both amazed at how mature she has been this past week while Luke got all the attention and gifts for his birthday.  She never pouted or complained and went out of her way to make him feel special about his big day.  To me, having that kind of attitude is a skill of equal or greater importance than her reading level, honestly.  Nobody cares how smart you are if you're a real jerk (okay, so it worked for Steve Jobs, but it doesn't for everyone...)

3.  A hard worker who does hard things.  David has had an incredibly tough week at work as his company laid off some people in their Atlanta office.  He personally had to let two people go and was understandably torn up about it.  I'm thankful he has a caring heart, even when it makes stuff like that so hard.  I've never given much thought to that side of management, but it is sometimes a necessary evil.  This week, we're saying prayers of gratitude that he has a job and praying for those that lost theirs.

4.  Blooming cherry trees.  The bulk of winter is behind us and Spring is coming, y'all! 

5.  Having some time to catch up.  Valentine's Day is over.  The consignment sale is over.  Luke's party is over.  I have about 3.5 seconds to catch my breath before we are knee-deep in some home improvement projects, teacher appreciation weeks begin, and Timber Trek stuff starts up, but doggone it, that's still 3.5 seconds.  I am going to use it to knock some things off that never-ending to do list that is always lingering in the background and I'm going to enjoy making a check mark or two on it!  

Thankful Thursday

I don't know what it is about this week, but I am feeling overly grateful for just about everything I come across.  Maybe it's the long overdue sunshine we're finally experiencing, maybe it's that David is going out of town soon so I know I'd better soak up him and his help, or maybe it's all the Thanksgiving decorations surrounding me reminding me to be thankful.  Whatever the reason, I can think of worse ailments from which to be suffering.  

Here is this week's list:

1.  My nephew James, whose birthday was Monday.  We had a great time celebrating him at his party on Sunday.  My favorite part was when he ran up to David, grabbed him by the hand, and dragged David away to do the inflatables with him.  :)  He loves his Uncle David!  We are so thankful for this big brown-eyed cutie pie.

2.  A day date!  About a month ago, I told David that it would make me incredibly happy if he took a day off when Audrey and Luke were in school, took me out to breakfast, and went Christmas shopping for the kids with me.  Luckily his workload is such right now that he was able to give in to my wish (and his history with me is such that he doesn't even blink at my wanting to Christmas shop in early November.)  We had to do some serious schedule searching to find a Tuesday or Thursday that worked, but today came together and off we went.  We ate a delicious country breakfast at a local spot I'd been wanting him to try and then hit Toys R Us, Target, and Toys R Us again to pick up a couple of things we were on the fence about the first round through.  We drove through Dairy Queen to have ice cream for lunch and then picked up Luke.  It was as fun as I knew it would be!  

3.  Little hands in mine.  As I mentioned, we have finally had a much-needed break from the rain and have spending a lot of time outdoors enjoying it.  As I was walking the kids off of a playground and back to the van one afternoon, I held their hands.  I guess I don't do that as often as I once did because I'm usually just out with Luke and, when I have both kids, we spend most afternoons and evenings at home.  What was once very common struck me in that moment as something rare and, more than that, fleeting.  I squeezed their little hands tight in mine and silently thanked God for the moment.  

4.  Leaves falling like snow.  It's beautiful to drive or walk through a "leaf blizzard." 

5.  Gilmore Girls!  I've started re-watching the series.  Due to mommy brain, age, or both, I honestly don't remember most of what I'm seeing, so it's like watching it for the first time.  The quick-paced diatribes that Lorelai does can sometimes get irksome, but I do love the show.  

Enjoy your Friday & weekend!

Thankful Thursday

I am still in complete shock that the Timber Trek happened last weekend and it'll take me quite some time to process it, but let me just tell you that it was a big success and a post IS in the works.  Until then, here is a long overdue Thankful Thursday post:

1.  Some chill time.  I feel like I have been on a treadmill that's set a smidge too high for at least the past 13-14 months.  I worked part time for nearly a year, which took up almost all of my down time, and then I went straight from that into hardcore Timber Trek work.  I am catching my breath for the first time in quite a while and it feel glorious.  

2.  That today is October 1st.  I have always loved October.  School routines are settled in, temperatures cool off, beautiful colors surround us, and, towards the end of the month, adorable kids in customs get guilt-free candy and the excitement and anticipation of the holidays is on the horizon (without the stress and busyness that they also bring).  It's just a fantastic month and I'm thrilled it's here.

3.  A date with my husband on a weekday!  David called me today and asked if I wanted to meet for lunch.  It took me a minute before I realized that Yes! Yes I COULD!  I didn't have any pressing work to get done and I didn't have to pick up Luke until about 12:45pm.  So we had a date in the middle of the day on a Thursday!  So spontaneous and unusual that it almost felt scandalous!

4.  Elementary school field trips.  I got to chaperone Audrey's first one (to Fernbank) yesterday and had so much fun.  Okay, I counted heads a lot and worried so much over sending the boys into a men's room alone that I probably made the teachers leery of my lingering.  But, aside from that, it was really cool to get to be a part of it with her and she loved it!

5.  My sweet friend Emily's PET scan results came back and her breast cancer has not spread!!!  Thank you, Jesus!

Let's hope I make it by here more often...but if not, know that it's because I'm working on something that's been neglected since July 2014.  

Thankful Thursday

So after typing out today's TT list, I realize it's more like a novella, but I'm going with it:

1.  A fantastic 4th of July!  Though the rain shifted some plans here and there, we still got to see the Taylors and go to fireworks on Friday and then to David's Aunt's annual family reunion on Saturday.  It was great seeing everyone, eating yummy food, and celebrating America's 239th birthday.  

2.  Race progress!  After hitting two dozen businesses in person and emailing ten more, we are getting somewhere.  We have two bronze sponsors, a gold sponsor, and two committed-but-undecided-on-level sponsors.  I have a long way to go, but this is GREAT!  

3.  Sweet kids and immediate perspective.  Tuesday was a long day.  I only slept about five hours the night before and we had to be up and out the door for the kids' dentist appointments that morning.  They both got through it very well, but the x-ray revealed a small cavity on one of Audrey's teeth (oh hello, Mommy guilt), which means we get to go back and deal with that in a couple of weeks.  We went from there 25 minutes farther out to drop off a donation and then drove the 45 minutes home for lunch.  After lunch I put them down for rest/nap, made about a dozen phone calls and sent emails for race sponsorships, and then got on my conference call for work.  After it was over (which, being one of my last ones, brought up mixed emotions), I got the kids up, shoved a snack in them, and went to the bank and the grocery store.  

Now, I gave you all of this back story because I need you to understand my reaction in what transpired next.  It had been a long, full day and I was also...well, let's just say "hormonal."  I walked out to the garage to get something out of the refrigerator we have out there and noticed the freezer door didn't look closed.  Squeezing one eye shut and peeking with the other, I hoped against hope I was wrong as I checked.  Turns out I was not wrong.

The door had been open for quite some time...long enough for everything inside to have gotten completely thawed and turned to mush.  And by everything, I mean ALL the meals I'd prepared for "Grandparent Weekend" when we're on our trip, all of Audrey's GF cupcake stash I have for birthday parties/events she gets invited to, and all of the strawberries we proudly picked that I use for smoothies.  Plus some frozen GF bread, bagels, tortillas, and pizza.  I couldn't help myself, I stood there and cried some big ol' tears like a big ol' baby.  All that WORK...gone!  The time spent, the money spent!  I had those meals done and checked off and now I had to start all over again!  

The kids saw me and asked what was wrong.  I explained the situation and they gave me hugs and then disappeared.  Which was fine by me, because I needed a minute to collect myself.  Later they returned with this handmade card:

The inside read:  "Love you!  We can help you make new food."

I mean, really.  I got all teary-eyed again, squeezed them tight, and thanked them profusely.  I got a grip quickly after that because, let's face it, I was sad about losing meals that my amazing parents and in-laws will be feeding my kids while I get to go on an awesome trip with my husband.  Talk about a first-world problem.  It was a bummer, but I overreacted.  I explained that to the kids and we talked about how emotions sometimes get the best of us...even as adults.  I'm so thankful for their sensitivity and thoughtfulness.  And may I have a little more grace the next time the two of them show a little drama.  They do come by it so very honestly.

4.  A new hairdresser.  I had been going to the same girl for nearly two years.  Every 6-8 weeks for TWO years and she never knew my kids' or husband's names, never asked how things were in my life, never followed up with what little news I did manage to squeeze into a conversation.  Which is fine, if you're nailing the hairdo, but lately that had been majorly slipping.  I've been attempting to grow it long for almost a year and made very little progress because she kept cutting off too much.  This past visit was the straw that broke the camel's back when she gave me a pretty hardcore mullet on one side.  I'd been so hesitant to leave because she's always done a great job on the color, but I was just a few feathered bangs short of a 80s rock star and had to make the call.  It helped that she'd recently made comments like "In just four years, I'm going to be THIRTY.  Gah!" and "I mean, it was a new Coach bag and only cost $400!" (For the record, I do own a couple of Coach bags, but their combined total did not cost me $400.)  The time had come for us to part ways.  

So I asked around and got a couple of recommendations for a place nearby.  I walked in and wasn't immediately snubbed by the lady working the front desk, which was refreshing.  I sat down, talked with the new hairdresser (who is 34, married, and has a four year old - already liking her!) and she...get this...did EXACTLY what I asked her to do and did it well!  I'm pleased as pie.  I didn't have her do color today, so the real test will come then, but my fingers are crossed.  This could be the one.  Laugh if you will, but the relationship between southern women and their hairdressers is vital, y'all.  Haven't you seen Steel Magnolias?!  I need this to work out.

5.  After writing a list that included me fussing over thawed food and a hairdresser, I feel like I owe you a deeper finale.  I leave you with this amazing video I watched this morning about some unsung heroes of 9/11.  I'm so thankful they were there to help and so glad our country has this kind of bravery and heroism through and through:

https://www.youtube.com/embed/MDOrzF7B2Kg?rel=0)

Thankful Thursday

Today was NUTS.  We left the house at 8am and headed to the gym so I could squeeze in a workout.  (Nothing is as motivating as swimsuit season, I tell ya.)  I picked up the kids from gym childcare and we went to order new glasses frames for AJ.  Though we really didn't have time to deal with it today, we were already out and I couldn't believe a week had gone by since her eye exam without me having ordered new glasses, so we bit the bullet and got it done.  The kids were very patient and well-mannered and the whole process was relatively painless...until it came time to pay, that is.  

We raced home from that, changed into swim suits, slathered on sunscreen, and hit the pool for the kids' swim lessons.  Just like every day this week, I stuffed a picnic lunch into one while the other was doing their lesson and then swapped.  At the end, I let them have a few minutes of free swim before loading our hot, tired, wet selves up and heading home for nap/rest time.  I got them dried off and settled and then did my conference call and worked for two hours.  I got the kids up, jumped in the shower while they ate snack, and then we drove to Audrey's gymnastics class.  (She's doing a once a week class for six weeks this summer.)  She did great and Luke enjoyed alternating between sneaking peaks at the class and coloring with me.  

The class wrapped up and we met David for a quick dinner and a sweet treat from Rita's.  He took the kids home to start baths while I stopped by a couple of businesses to talk to them about race sponsorships and then went by the grocery store on the way home.  We put the kids to bed, did laundry, and that brings me here to you now...with my eyelids drooping.

Summer oh summer, where for art thou "supposed to be chill" summer?

Today was not the norm, of course, but overall it has been a little crazier than I would prefer.  VBS, our trip to New Smyrna Beach (maybe I'll post about that one day), AJ's birthday party (maybe I'll get around to a post on that, too), swim lessons... None of these things are chores by any means, but they have kept us busy.  I'm hoping it'll slow down a little next week and, if not, certainly by mid-July.  In the midst of the busyness, though, I'm trying to focus my attention on the blessings and perks.  Here is this week's list:

1.  Brave little ones who are conquering their fears in swim lessons.  Luke was super anxious on the first day, even crying and telling the coach "NO!" at one point, but he's a completely different student now and doing fantastic.  Audrey has built up her solo- floating to a full 30 seconds and is working hard at freestyle and backstroke.  I'm so proud at their perseverance (which, fittingly, is our virtue of the month.  Don't think I haven't run that into the ground this week!)

2.  Eye improvement for AJ.  Though we found out at last week's appointment that she still has to patch for another three months, her eyes are improving!  In fact, her farsightedness has decreased by 25%.  Pray with us that these next 90 days bring about an end to patching for her!

3.  Not nursing or sleeping in 2-3 hour increments.  I know that sounds like a crazy thing to list, but it definitely crossed my mind when I took a meal to a friend earlier this week who just had a baby.  Oh man was I exhausted just thinking about that stage!  Her tiny daughter was precious and there are certainly moments I miss from that sweet time with my own two, but thank you Lord that I am no one's meal ticket and that sleep comes in much larger blocks these days.  

4.  Audrey and Luke's close relationship at this moment.  I'm well aware that by writing about this I'm going to ruin it, but it's just so amazing how well they're getting along right now!  I firmly believe it's because Audrey has way more patience with him than when she's had to put up with 17 other kids and a teacher at school all day.  Plus, he's so pumped to have a playmate other than mom that he'll go along with most of her ideas.  It's not perfect, mind you, but it's going quite well.  Please, please, please let it last!

5.  Podcasts.  I think I've listed this one before, but they really are such a good way to make monotonous tasks more bearable.  I found a new one that I'm hooked on now ("Happier" by Gretchen Ruben) in addition to some of my favorites (God Centered Mom, Inspired to Action, and Big Boo Cast.)  Check them out while you're driving, cleaning, or exercising and just see if it doesn't perk you up and make the time go by faster!

6.  Date night at a new restaurant.  Love me some date nights, love me some Italian food.  Put the two together and I'm over the moon!  :)  David and I got to sneak away for a couple of hours earlier this week and I know it gave me the boost to carry me through the rest of the week's busy t0-dos.  (I highly recommend Parma restaurant if you haven't been, by the way.)

7.  That feeling when you come inside from being at the pool.  The air conditioning hits you and there's a little smell of chlorine lingering and your lungs are tired...it's just quintessential summer to me.  

8.  Progress on the race that I'm putting on in our neighborhood this fall.  This week I've hit 17 businesses in person about sponsorships and emailed 6 others.  I know it's going to take asking 30-40 to get a solid 10, so pray for continued motivation for me and for interest from them!  Tomorrow marks 90 days out!

9.  Laughter with the kids.  Audrey and Luke's senses of humor are blossoming and I'm trying to make a conscious effort to join in, cut up, and laugh more with them.  Earlier this week we passed a port-a-potty being transported on a piece of construction equipment and made up a story about what it would be like if someone had been inside when they moved it.  We were all laughing so hard I thought we might have to pull over and find a real potty!  

10.  Peace.  When you make the right call at the right time and you know it's God's will, there is a confident, incomparable peace that washes over you.  Sorry to vague-blog, but I've reached the end of my stamina tonight...more later.

Sweet dreams!

Thankful Thursday

It's been a busy week as I've been prepping for this Friday's Kindergarten Market Day.  I was up at the school for a couple of hours yesterday and am headed back up in a little bit to help get the classroom organized and put up a few decorations.  I'm definitely not doing near what I did for the class's winter party as I'm trying to save some money and sanity for the end of the year party that happens in about a month.  As I heard somewhere recently (and may have already posted because my brain is just that good these days), April and May are the November and December of Spring.  It's hectic!  Chick-fil-A for dinner tonight?  Why yes, I think we will.

Here is this week's list:

1.  A healthy three year check-up for Luke.  My favorite part was when I was answering the development questions and the form read "Does your child use 3-4 word sentences when speaking?  Give an example."  I looked at Luke who had not stopped talking all morning just as he said, "Mommy? Am I going to have to get a shot today?  Because I'm a little nervous about that.  I really don't want to get a shot today.  Will they listen to my heart with a stethoscope?  Will I get to pick out a sticker at the end?  Where are we going after the doctor's office?"  Yeah.  I think we're good with speech development. 

I am a little concerned about his lisp when using "s" and "th" words, but the doctor explained that that is a motor skill that usually takes until the age of five to master, so we'll wait a little longer.  Only a little though, because, as you know, we've had an awesome track record so far about playing the "just wait it out game."  (See also: AJ's toe walking, amblyopia, and ignoring her decreased growth rate...)

2.  A great race!  David and I had our 10K on Saturday and it was awesome!  He surprised me with his endurance and we made really good time (for us.)  The course was super flat, the weather was gorgeous, and the pollen count was low.  We celebrated with a Martin's biscuit on the way home, which I don't think we've had in a solid seven years at least.  Delicious!

3.  A good Spring Break.  I had the best of intentions to write a post about our Easter and AJ's Spring Break, but I guess it'll just have to wait and be included in the April recap.  The gist: We had several fun play dates with friends and grandparents, we went to a children's museum and a bouncy house place, we had a pajama day, and we got a lot of extra sleep.  It was low key, but it was nice.  Getting up Monday morning was no joke.  I posted my feelings about it on Facebook:

Truth.  I'm so ready for summer...and I'm definitely not the only one!

4.  The wardrobe switch-a-roo.  I did the kids' closets a couple of weeks ago, only leaving a handful of long sleeves and pants.  I've been swapping out my stuff bit by bit and have made a decent dent in it this week.  Though I'm not quite physically ready for shorts and sleeveless tops, I am ready for a change and some brighter prints.  

5.  Tomorrow night's date with my husband.  It hasn't happened yet and it's not going to be anything big, but I am so looking forward to spending a little quality time with David just the two of us.  He's been killing himself at work lately, even going in last Saturday afternoon and most of the day Sunday, and we just need a breather for a minute even if it's a short one.  I don't know where we're going or what we're doing, but I do know it'll a) be relaxing and b) involve gluten.  

Hope y'all have a great Friday and a restful, fun weekend!

Thankful Thursday/Teacher Appreciation Week

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week.  Every year (all three of them thus far...two of which were not even five days long) I think "this Teacher Appreciation Week is not going to be a big deal.  We'll just keep it simple and low-key!  Do a few small things that pack a big punch!"  

Well.

I have baked multiple nights (I barely cook on multiple nights) and, in an effort to avoid more baking, ran around trying to find the perfect blueberry muffin.  I have collected money and sent nightly reminders (Don't forget a flower tomorrow!  Don't forget a homemade card tomorrow!  Don't forget to SEND ME MONEY!)  I have answered emails and phone calls, I have shopped for supplies, and I will no doubt shell out a small fortune to cover the gap before it's all said and done.  And then, the poor teacher was actually out for two days (so much for a fresh pound cake.  Sorry, sister, I ain't making it again)!  

So, basically, I've been working hard, spending too much money out of pocket, and running around trying to help people only to have some plans fall apart anyway.  My conclusion?  I have caught the teeniest glimpse of the life of a teacher this week.  

She is so worth it, of course, and I hope that even if she missed two of the days, she felt as loved and appreciated as she is.  

A brief report of other news:  GF eating/cooking is going well and Luke is still kicking tail in the potty-training department.  Keep those prayers coming!

Here is this week's list:

1.  Teachers.  Obviously.

2.  Audrey's amblyopia improvement.  She had an eye doctor appointment on Monday and, while I reallyreallyreallyREALLY wanted to get the green light to be finished with the eye patching, alas, she is not there yet.  But there is improvement!  And that is something!  12 more weeks.  We got this.

3.  Sweaty workouts.  Because I know they're good for me and a great stress reliever.

4.  Easter decorations!  Out with St. Patrick's Day stuff and in with Spring and Easter.  I made the switch yesterday and it's making me smile to see pastel and pretty things around the house.  

5.  A husband who works his butt off and whose patience is seemingly endless.  I know I've mentioned it so many times before but it is worth repeating.  When I am completely done with the kids (see: Monday morning.  And Monday night.  And maybe also last night...) he swoops in and saves all of us from eminent destruction.  He's been killing himself at work and hasn't felt well this week, but he's still managing to do a great job holding the title of Best Daddy in the World.  God bless him.  


Have a great rest of the week, y'all!

Thankful Thursday

Y'all.  This is my fourth post this week.  That's FOUR posts in FOUR days!  If the rest of the year goes to pot, I want you to please remember this streak and give me a teensy bit of credit for it.

I guess I really should find something more productive with my time.  I could be the PTA secretary because the current president asked me this week if I would consider it.  

...AAAH-HAHAHAHAHAHAHA.  

If she only knew... Thankfully she did it over email because I would've hated to laugh in her face.  David and I both doubled-over cracking up at the suggestion.  Since his sweet mama was PTA royalty and I worked at the state office in college, I have a better grasp than most about what it takes to do the job right and it. is. no. joke! 

Let me clarify that it's not a preposterous idea.  It's just that it's a preposterous idea at this point in my life.  Maybe when both kids are in school, but honey, unless you want to be on the 6 o'clock news talking about the crazy woman who lost her mind at a general membership meeting, I'd better respectfully decline.  This fall is going to hold double room mom duty plus a committee or two, (probably) leading another small group, working, and, hopefully, putting on a 5K race.  And Luke will only have two mornings a week of preschool, which equates to about 6.5 hours if you take out drive time and carpool.  Being PTA Secretary is NOT my best yes right now.  I let her down gently and I think she took it well.  

Okay, on to the list because I don't want to take for granted those of you dedicated readers who have already devoted entirely too much time to this blog in the last few days (Quick question:  Do you know where your children are and have you been feeding them?  Because I do not want to be held responsible for your negligent behavior!)

1.  I don't want to write too much on the subject yet lest I jinx us, but Luke has been a potty training CHAMP this week.  Since we have absolutely nothing else on our plate right now, we started the boot camp method on Saturday (straight to underwear, no leaving the house for several days, lots of liquids and then watch him like a hawk and catch him in the act of an accident...no just sitting around on the potty).  We thought we'd do that to jump start things and kick off what would likely be a months-long battle, hoping he'd have it down by the start of preschool in the fall.  However, he is doing incredibly well and it's been soooooooo much easier than I ever dreamed!  ...Okay, that's enough.  I'm afraid I've already mentioned too much.  More details later after I have a chance to see if it sticks.  Until then, please say a prayer and knock on some wood for us!  

2.  I can go ahead and brag on Audrey, who is taking all of these gluten-free diet changes in stride.  Not one single whine or complaint has come out of her mouth!  I am so proud of her attitude about it all!  She's helping me read labels and double-checking me on stuff, which is completely her personality, but I'm trying to get her to back off a little because I don't want her feeling burdened with it at age five.  She's doing wonderfully with it all, though!

3.  Big Mama and Boo Mama.  Now I'm betting all but one of the six or seven of you readers are wondering who the heck I'm talking about.  Well, Big Mama is Melanie Shankle and Boo Mama is Sophie Hudson and both of them are Jesus-lovers, southerners, mamas, bloggers, and book authors.  They are not too often deep (or, rather, they hide gems of truth in layers of comedy) but they are always hilarious.  My friend Kara introduced me to Melanie by way of her book "Antelope in the Living Room."  She sent it to me back in December and I read it quickly, then ordered her other one entitled "Sparkly Green Earrings."  Last week I picked up Sophie's (cause, you know, we're on a first name basis) "Home is Where My People Are" and devoured it.  Their light-hearted stories and comic relief is just what I need in my life right now.  (Sorry, Jen Hatmaker, because I love you too, but Interrupted is going to have to sit on the nightstand a little bit longer.)  

I've also been taking a break from my usual sermon podcasts on my morning runs and listening to the one they do together.  I have found myself laughing so hard at some points that I can hardly run.  It feels like eaves dropping on a conversation between two best friends who discuss everything from their kids' homework to hair spray to musicals to crackers.  (And I never accidentally chime in while I'm listening as if they're really on the phone with me, because that would just be weird.)  If you're looking for something to spur you on to new spiritual depths, I can't promise they are your gals, but if you need a laugh...and boy, have I lately...they are there for you.  

4.  These wide leg pants from Old Navy (a recommendation from none other than the previously mentioned Boo Mama.)  If, hypothetically, those ten pounds I've been carrying since November have gotten so persistent in their stalking that I've considered a restraining order, well, I'd want a pair (or two) of wide leg pants to help camouflage them.  At least until I can put down my mint Oreos and fight back.  (Don't forget to look up a coupon if you order some.)

5.  60 and 70 degree weather.  Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.  

Thankful Thursday

It has been a really strange couple of weeks in our house.  The weather has been nuts, for one thing.  Audrey was out of school for President's Day last week and then they closed for a day due to an ice storm.  We lost power for 24 hours, which was a cold pain in the rear.  Thankfully the roads were clear enough for us to go out and get warm elsewhere, so we hit up Zaxby's and Dollar Tree, came home for naps, and then went Kids Up (it's like a Monkey Joe's) followed by Cracker Barrel for dinner.  

This week, which was already wacky with two scheduled early release days due to parent-teacher conferences, another storm moved in.  The county cancelled school yesterday, even though it wasn't supposed to start snowing (nor did it) until nearly 5pm.  Obviously everyone was playing it safe after last year's catastrophic city shut-down.  It didn't amount to much at all and the kids only stomped around in the dribble we got for about ten minutes.  

Anyway, Audrey went today, though most counties were still closed.  Frankly, I'm glad they didn't call it since our superintendent insists on 180 school days, regardless of whether or not the governor declares a state of emergency and excuses them.  We will have to make up the two remaining built-in days (one we were supposed to get off in March and one by tacking on a day to the end of the school year).  If we miss any additional days due to weather, the county will decide whether to extend the school day like they did last year or extend the year with additional days.  Cool, huh?

What a giant mess.  I'm glad I'm not in charge of making those calls...though I'd be more than happy to throw in my two cents (hint: LET IT GO, MAN.  It's 1-2 days!  You think the kids are gonna learn anything that last day of school?!)  Hopefully we are finished with this bad (or at least, anticipated bad) weather and they won't have to make up any more.  

So, there's been THAT weird stuff going on, which in turns changes and cancels all kinds of plans and y'all know how that's my favorite.  Add Luke's birthday party festivities and some pretty major other stuff I'll get into later (sorry for vague-blogging...not ready to share yet but NO I'm not pregnant) and I'm just ready for spring and sunshine.  

In an effort to keep a positive attitude, I thought I'd dust off my Thankful Thursday skills:

1.  This kid.  Oh, this kid.  I absolutely cannot believe he is THREE now.  He had a wonderful party and birthday this past weekend and has officially kissed toddlerhood goodbye.  (Except he's still in diapers.  And uses a pacifier at night.  Whatever.  We'll get there.)  Still, he is our extroverted ball of energy who will only slow down if he thinks a snuggle might be in it for him. He has a heart of gold (until you try to cross his sister) and the most sensitive, sweet spirit (unless you wanna sword fight.) He is always quick to provide comedic relief when we start taking life too seriously. God certainly knew exactly what we needed when He blessed us with Luke.  Love you, Bubba, and Happy Birthday!

2. Post-trip, post-consignment, post-party, post-etc downtime.  I feel like the past few months have been one long marathon of events.  We had the busy holidays and then immediately after, we turned our focus to prepping for consignment and Disney World.  David traveled a lot a few weeks in a row somewhere in there plus work was busy for me plus we shopped for and bought a car.  Then, Disney was done and it was all about Valentine's Day.  Then Small Group starting back.  Then Luke's birthday and party.  I'm happy to have just a couple of weeks without some event coming down the pipe.  Although there's that vague-blogging thing I'll get into more later...and Teacher Appreciation Week soon.  But I'm not borrowing worry from tomorrow.  For this very moment in time, I do not have much on the agenda, and that's a nice, welcomed change.  

3.  Speaking of small groups starting back, that's next on this list.  David and I began co-leading another semester with the same folks as last time.  I won't pretend I don't enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon during the time off, but I do really like meeting and discussing with this group of sweet people.  They have become friends that I enjoy seeing and catching up with every week.  We definitely couldn't do it solo right now and are also very appreciative of our sweet co-leaders!

4.  Having kids that can entertain themselves for long stretches.  I do miss some things about babyhood, I really do.  But oh my stars is it amazing the way the kids can* play together for long periods of time now that they're older!  Yesterday, I took a shower, fixed my hair and make-up, and got completely dressed (about a 45 minute routine) and they managed to play together NICELY the entire time without interrupting me once.  No TV or screen was in use, so double the miracle!

*Note:  I didn't say they always do.  They are capable, but sometimes choose to fight, quarrel, and drive their mama crazy instead.  

5.  This song.  It is resonating big time for me right now and has been for weeks, though I didn't have a good reason until lately.  Sorry for the cheesiness of the video.  Just ignore it and listen to the message in the lyrics.  


  

Pray up for us, y'all.  I'll be in touch.  

Thankful Thursday

You read the title right:  This is a Thankful Thursday post!  The first one since September, y'all.  It's not that I haven't been thankful, but, well, you know...LIFE.  So in case it happens to crop up again (as life is prone to do), don't get to used to seeing these again just yet.

1.  The 2002 Toyota 4Runner that we traded in this week.  It was my first car purchase after years and years of hand-me-downs and I loved it.  It never required anything beyond basic maintenance and served us amazingly well for nine years.  

2.  The new (to us) 2012 Acura TL that #1 helped pay for for my dear husband.  He is downright giddy!  I'm so happy for him and grateful we could do this.

3. Getting some time alone at home.  On Wednesday I shipped Luke off to his grandparents' for the day so I could get some things done at the house.  I may or may not have even snuck in some DVR catch up, too.  It felt luxurious.  

4.  Our new 12Stone Buford Campus, which is now officially open and meeting at Lanier High School!  It's been an adjustment, especially for the kids, but we know this is where God wants us to worship and serve right now.  Come check it out with us anytime!  

5.  My brother, Brian, whose birthday is Saturday.  We've gotten closer this past year and I'm so proud of the husband and father he is!  (Side note: my apologies to all those loved ones whose b'days I missed while not doing TT posts.  I'm very grateful for you too!)

Happy Friday and have a wonderful weekend!

Thankful Thursday

I have really been wanting to sit down and write an update on Audrey's kindergarten experience, but haven't had the time to do that or a monthly recap for August just yet.  In an effort not to succumb to the "do it right or not at all" mentality I struggle with, I decided that not having time to do that didn't mean I had to forego posting all together.  So, here is a quick TT post for the week:

1.  Time with family.  We got to swing by for a visit with my brother, sister-in-law, and nephews on our way to Alabama last weekend.  Though we weren't there long, it was better quality time than the last few chaotic birthday party gatherings we've shared.  My favorite part was when my SIL told me that my nephew Carson was requesting me by name to come upstairs so he could show me who Kirby was on his Nintendo game.  (And he didn't even give me grief about not already knowing such a thing!) Our Alabama visit was great as well and we had extra reason to celebrate since it was my mother-in-law's birthday.  Which brings me to #2...

2.  My mother-in-law, Pam.  She is a constant source of support for our family in the form of encouraging words and prayer, for-no-reason clothes and gifts, and most of all, taking such great care of our kids.  It is absolutely priceless to me to have so many grandparents nearby to help out.  Lately she's had to be even more flexible than usual as my schedule has become busier and I'm more at the mercy of others.  I greatly appreciate your role in the village that it takes, Pam!

3.  Being with Audrey at her school.  Finally, I got to go in to Audrey's class this week and have my room mom meeting, volunteer, and then have lunch with my sweet girl.  She was ecstatic!  I had my meeting and then took some things out in the hall to work on so the teacher didn't have to feel like I was looking over her shoulder.  I came back in to drop off the stack and the kids were lined up ready to walk to lunch.  Audrey looked panicked and grabbed my hand super tightly.  I bent down to hear her whisper, "Mommy!  It's lunch time - don't go!"  I assured her I wasn't doing any more work and was ready to go with her to the cafeteria.  That night when I was tucking her in, she said, "Mommy, I was so worried when it was almost lunch and you weren't there.  I was scared you'd miss it with me."  OH my heart!  I pray that she will always a) know I'll be there when I say I will and b) want my company that badly.

4.  Those of you that have taken the time to call, text, or ask about my new job.  I've come a long way in a short time, but it's still new and overwhelming.  I appreciate your care and encouragement more than you know.  (P.S. I lead my first team call by myself today and didn't screw anything up - SUCCESS!)

5.  The sound of rain showers in our sunroom.  I love our sunroom.  It was one of the major selling points of this house and is my favorite room in it, but unfortunately it's not one I spend a ton of time in.  When it's raining, though, I try to make a point to go in just for a minute to hear the drops patter on the roof and watch the trees blowing around outside.  It is incredibly peaceful and beautiful.  

Maybe more updates soon, maybe not.  Hopefully.  Life is pretty hectic right now, so I appreciate your prayers and patience!  

Thankful Thursday

This week has been a busy one.  My brother and niece came up to stay with us last Friday and Saturday nights for Audrey's big birthday bash on Saturday.  (More to come on that later.)  Just as we caught our breath, David left Sunday afternoon for a business trip to Washington DC.  Audrey has had swim lessons every day this week, so we've spent a lot of time at the pool, with which I have a love-hate relationship.  The hate side - it takes forever to get two kids in their swimsuits, sunscreen applied, picnic packed, toys and towels and goggles gathered, etc. etc. etc. But, the love side is that the kids enjoy it, it wears them out, and I get a tan.  

Anyway, throw in me stepping up my workout game (because what was supposed to be a week off somehow stretched into nearly four and we're hitting the beach in two weeks) without being able to squeeze it in before David goes to work since he's not here, Audrey's gymnastics, a thousand returns for unused party goods, a play date, updating the blog and editing/posting pics (see below), and making and delivering a meal to a friend, and I would really just like a nap.  Maybe this weekend.  

Here is this week's list:

1.  The true miracles that a smooth pregnancy, safe delivery, and healthy baby are, and how blessed I am that me and my sisters-in-law all got to experience those miracles.  Last week, friends from our small group had their third baby.  Without going into a lot of detail, I'll say that her delivery went well, but shortly after they discovered she had severed an artery in the birth canal and she was rushed to surgery.  She lost 80% of her blood and nearly died as she lay on the operating table having amnesia awareness (yes, that means she felt numb but could hear and understand everything that was happening to her.)  After being in ICU on a ventilator for two days, she slowly and gradually got better and was discharged last Saturday.  As you can imagine, she is still struggling, in a lot of pain, and grieving over the lost time with her newborn and the moments she can never get back.  With two other littles at home, I cannot fathom how much they have on their plates right now.  It has been a horrific experience for them during what should be one of the most joyous occasions of their lives.  Pray for them, please, and if you had a healthy delivery, stop and thank the Lord.

2.  The result of that first healthy delivery five years ago.  Can you believe my baby girl turned FIVE last week?  I am still in denial.  I hope to write more about it and the party soon, but I would be remiss if I didn't add her to this week's list.  

3.  Close calls turned okay.  David's grandfather was having chest pains earlier this week and was hospitalized while they ran tests and did a procedure.  He does have blockage in a neck artery that he'll have to get taken care of soon, but he got to go home with a clean bill of health for his heart, thank the Lord.  

4.  New running shoes.  Truthfully, I hate buying new running shoes, but I was way overdue for a pair and finally broke down and went to the speciality store where I buy them.  Of course, my exact kind had been discontinued.  I tried on the "new and improved" version, but wasn't completely sold.  I decided to wait and look online and, sure enough, I found some!  Yay for postponing change a little bit longer.  That's a motto I like to live by. 

5.  A surprise early return.  David called me late this afternoon and said he was able to wrap up his business trip early and that he was sprinting to make the 8pm flight back home.  We have really missed him and he's really missed us this trip, so I'm glad he'll be back early. On top of that, he decided to take tomorrow off!  Yay!  (And no, I'm not just excited about someone else being here for sunscreen application duty...well, that may be a very small reason.)

Enjoy your weekend - I know we will!