Silence for Sandy Hook Elementary

Day 57: Life, precious life

With the sadening, horrible news of the tragedy in CT......I post today in prayerful mourning of the lives lost.  I am certain that many are continuing their facebook,twitter and blog status updates as usual......but I can't bring myself to.  To me, it just seems that a moment of silence is in need......monumentally......and my only post would be.... no words......just prayer.

May God comfort and help to heal those affected.  May they find that their faith sustains them.  May their tragic heartbreak bring a light to this world that now more than ever, we need God.

As the stories unfold, much like other tragedies......we hear heroic deeds and countless acts of goodness among those facing the greatest evil they have ever known.

My daughter has already been writing.  Writing  a beautiful song inspired by her deep desire to help.  I cannot fathom this evil, yet I know God has an ability to turn all evil for something good.  My prayer is that the good that can come from this horrific event......be evident to those who need to know it most.  And I pray that we always recognize just how precious life is.  A gift.  In Jesus name, I pray.  Amen.

Day 56:proud mommy moment number #we'llcallthisoneSharon:)

Tonight my son had to write an essay for a scholarship application and he brainstormed events from his life that might fit the criteria.  Upon reflection, he selected a special memory that is dear to my heart.  I have been on the family meals committee of our church for years and when a dear friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer, I instantly signed up to bring her family of 5 meals.  
On this one particular time I had cooked lasagne and it was drizzling out on this night that we stopped by to deliver the meal.  I instantly noticed how unkempt the home was and the obvious disarray of a home I'd come to know as well kept.  
Let me tell you about the mother of this family.  She had 5 children all under age 12 and her youngest was just 4 months old when she was diagnosed with cancer.  She had homeschooled all of her kids and was a devout Catholic but first and foremost she was a Christian.  I met her at the city pool in our town the summer her family moved in.  We had an instant connection and her sweet, genuine nature was easy to like.  She began telling me how she homeschooled her kids and being a teacher, I was quite interested in her reasons for such a decision.  We became friends and I even gave her some books that she could use with her children. 
For the next couple of years we saw each other mostly through church functions but she had started making rosaries and when my oldest daughter was ready for her first communion, I knew I wanted Sharon to make it for us.  Just a few months later, Sharon became ill.  Her illness progressed quite quickly.  Now on this particular night when we visited to bring her and her family the meal......I was quite shaken by her frail appearance but as she lived her life, she remained unshaken and faithful about her prognosis.  She was downright positive that she was going to get better and return to her normal activities.  I wasn't sure if her positive attitude was in protection of her children or if it was truly how she chose to approach her illness.   Whichever it was is not the point.  The point was that knowing Sharon made me a better person.  She made me want to be a better mom and she made me all the more aware of the preciousness our time on this earth is.....especially in regard to our children. 
After visiting  briefly, the family thanked us for the meal and we began to leave.  I will never forget the overwhelming feeling that I had.....to hug and kiss her before I left.  It was a thought that crossed my mind only for a second and instantly the answer was "do it, this will be the last time you see her alive".  I can only believe that God was speaking to me and so I brazenly approached her, hugged her and kissed her on the cheek. 
I don't know how I managed to hold back the tears.....I think part of me wanted to be strong for Sharon.  She had been so positive throughout her terrible illness and it didn't seem right for me to cry in her presence.  So I made it out the door to her carport.....and as I left the safe covering, the rain which was now heavy, came pouring down upon me.  It was all I needed to allow that release.  I began balling as my children and I ran to our vehicle.  My older children were very quiet but my youngest was quite concerned, asking "mommy, mommy, what's wrong?".  Through sobs I told them that this would be the last time we would see Sharon alive.  I told them that the next time we see her......it would be at her funeral.  My youngest, still very concerned, said "how do you know that mommy?"  and I said "I just do. "  And I did.  Just like I knew I had to kiss her goodbye......I knew it was the last time I'd see her alive.  It was a very sad ride home and in under a week, Sharon passed. 
I will never forget that night.  It played out like a scene in a movie.  God's movie.  I'm so glad my children were with me and got to share in that experience and I'm even more proud that it impacted my oldest son enough to want to write about it for a scholarship application several years later. 

As a side note, I will add (just for those of you reading who are painfully wondering how her family dealt with such a tragic loss).....about a year after her passing, Sharon's husband met a woman with kids of her own and they married, moved away and began their new life together.  I keep up with them distantly through social networks but it gives me some sense of peace to see them smiling and enjoying life.....just as Sharon would have wanted.

Day 55: Proud Mommy Moment #toomanytocount

So I don't usually post things like this, but I am taking a proud mommy moment here!

This is probably the nicest note I've ever received from a teacher about one of my children and it brought tears to my eyes because she so eloquently described precisely how we feel about our sweet Belle and the goodness we see in her every day. It was nice to hear it from a teacher who most certainly does not have the time to write this kind of hand written note on every child, nor is she expected to do so, but somehow ......she did. Thank you Ms. Robinette

Day 54: Sweet sounds of the season

Well as soon as Halloween is goon and gone ;)  my crew gets ready to listen to Christmas music!!   We feel that there isn't enough Christmas time in the Christmas season.....so we love to enjoy the Christmas music for as long as we can!!  As I type this, littlest doll baby Belle is doing her chores whilst playing Christmas music on Pandora!  I've said before how I truly believe Pandora could take me through ANY task......and our sweetness is obviously a chip off the ol' block ;)  because she is working so hard on her chores while Pandora soothes on!!  :) 
I love her sweet spirit!! I love that it's a Friday night and it's a mommy and her girl night!!  Everyone else is out and about......but I have a special night at home with my babygirl!!!  And she is as happy as ever........just finished reading her latest and eating dinner.....and now is on to her chores while Pandora plays Christmas music in the background.  BLESSINGS of the SEASON!!!  Sweet, sweet sounds!!  I love my life!!

Day 53: Thankful post for November 13

13- I am thankful for a positive attitude.  I've always considered myself to be optimistic.  I always looked at the good over the bad and many might say I lived with rose colored glasses, but that's ok.  I think it has taken a different depth as I've grown in my Christian walk because learning Godly wisdom has helped me to realize that often times, it is a matter of choice.  And when we choose to be thankful vs gripeful, when we choose appreciation over deprivation, we will find that our hearts are open to receiving more blessings from the Lord.  And maybe it's nothing more than being aware of those blessings......but one example I have is after reading a Christian parenting book that said something to the effect of changing attitude was a choice and it was not always in our nature to do so.  For some must really work at it--and if it doesn't come naturally, than you just need to be aware of that and consciously work at it in your life.  Then a few weeks later, I was folding laundry and realized I was less than  excited about it--when I was reminded of God's view on it--and quick as that-I flipped my attitude to one of gratitude.....changed the whole perspective on the task at hand and I instantly felt so overjoyed to have 3 wonderful kids TO DO laundry for! It's a choice, really.  Now that doesn't mean I'm perfect now and I always get it right--I don't.  But I am definitely more aware and quicker to catch myself when I'm not having a Godly outlook. 
Then this past summer, I read the book (which I've posted about) where a college friend of mine's daughter has leukemia (Heavenly Birth) and she later founded the WeGetTo.org foundation......it reaffirmed my belief that our outlook is very much a choice and in choosing to look at the good, we are much better off than choosing to look at the negatives in any situation.  Some might call it Godly wisdom and I believe we all should seek it!

Day 52: Thankful posts for November 12

12- I am thankful for laughter! :)  It makes everything  better and is an all around spirit-lifter......and when it inolves children, there is no better sound!  I believe I have read somewhere that it produces certain brain chemicals or something......but I definitely know that I love to laugh and be with people who bring it to my life!

Day 51: Thankful posts for November 11

11-I am thankful for good books to read.  Reading is such a pleasurable experience.....and can border on addiction ;)  but I have found some wonderful books to read over this past year.  And I am thankful for the gift of the author's craft of writing.  It can transcend me to another world or enlighten the one I am currently in.

Day 50: Thankful posts for November 10

10- I am thankful for nature. It's ever-changing beauty is a constant reminder of God's splendor and I appreciate it's glory.

Day 49: Thankful posts for November 9

9- I am thankful for music. It has a unique ability to bring such joy and lift the spirit. 

Day 48: Thankful posts for November 8

8- I am thankful for my friends. Some of whom I have been blessed to know since childhood and others whom we have bonded over painful life experiences, but all of which are dear to my heart and always are there for me--making me laugh or realize that this too shall pass. They are my sanity and I know God has placed each in my life for a reason. We can go months without speaking and it is always as if we just spoke yesterday when we are together. They love, understand, support, carry and inspire and bring more laughter to my life than one can imagine! 

Day 47: Thankful posts for November 7

7- I am thankful for my family. My distant relatives and the relationships that I have formed with them through technology.

Day 46: Thankful posts for November 6

6- I am thankful for  health.  The single thing most taken for granted until it's gone or deteriated.......so I am extremely grateful for good health.  Good health of my spouse, children and family members. 

Day 45: Thankful posts for November 5

5- I am thankful for our children. What incredible gifts from God they all are. What unique personalities and talents they each have and how richly they have blessed our lives. 

Day 44: Thankful posts for November 4

4- I am thankful for my husband.  He supports me and loves me and continues to inspire me!  He is my best friend, my confidant and my source of strength.

Day 43: Thankful posts for November 3

3-I am thankful that my parents, particularly my father, taught me about God and my earthly father was my first example of our heavenly father's love. My dad did an amazing job raising his children and I can only hope that my children will hold me in such high regard as I do him.

Day 42: Thankful posts for November 1 & 2

Well the "fad" right now is posting on facebook something that you're thankful for each day in November.  This leads me to thinking that I might try to post each day on my blog something that I'm thankful for.  So here goes-
1- I am thankful for God and His many blessings.  I am thankful for His will to be done in my life and for His forgiveness, love and guidance.
2-  I am thankful for my husband who makes life fun and inspires me daily while remaining the love of my life.

Day 41: The cRaZy things a mommy will do :)

As if I haven't made it clear by now that my girls are big Taylor Swift fans........I had to go and join this cRaZy promotion for her upcoming Red tour!!!  Well.....it's the kind of thing a mother will do for her kids, right?  ;)) 

So here's the link.....and IF you happen to be a fan.....you can join too but using this link will give us extra points so I'd appreciate it if you'd join through our link.  :)

http://taylorswiftred.com/r/51e9a1df6077e9670d63

I am very excited by the news my daughter just shared with me.....she said Taylor Swift insisted that her concert tickets would not be over $50!!!  YAY!!!  That is great news!!!  Considering what the last concert tour cost for the 3 of us to go! 

Day 40: Proud

I post a lot about our girlie girls.......but this one is about how proud I am of our son!   He's made us so proud and we couldn't ask for a better boy!  He's always been very mature for his age.....always made good decisions and choices and always worked hard for his goals on his own, without any pushing from us.  He continues to amaze us with his work ethic and drive.  Today he had a community service project to clean up some roadways and he'd already written a 12 page essay yesterday for one of his classes........and these are the kinds of things he just "does".  He tells us about them as they are happening or he'll mention what is coming up.......but it's without question of ever "should I do this???/ or do I have to??"  and rather it's always just very matter of fact.....that this is what I need to do, so I'm going to do it.  WOW!  To have that self direction and discipline at his age is quite impressive.  He's such a good kid!  Not to mention, he spent the early hours of his Sat. morning practicing for an upcoming ACT test because he really wants to improve his score!  We can only imagine what God has in store for him and his life with the gifts and talents he's been blessed with and the automaticity of his responsiveness to doing whatever it is he needs to do.  He's very responsible and I can't think of another teenager like him!  We are so blessed to be his parents!
I've told all our children.......since they were babies (and often as I would lay them down to bed with kisses, hugs, snuggling and prayers)......."God made you.......and you are so full of goodness!  We can't wait to see what you become!"  Pure goodness!!  Mmmmm-mmmmm!

Day 39: RED!

I will have to post this one in the apt color of RED!  For weeks my Taylor Swiftie fanatic daughters have been on top of all of Taylor's new singles that she has been apparently releasing each week until her new albulm comes out (which is tomorrow) so today, my daughter decides to pain her nails .....what else?  RED!  She's never in her life ever painted her nails red......but Taylor Swift had tweeted about it and so of course.......being the Swiftie fan that she is......she followed suit!  I must admit, I am so grateful that IF my teenager is going to obsess over an artist......that at least she picked a good one to favor!  Who knows......I may just join her and paint my nails red too!!  :)

Day 38: The Best Day......with you.....again!

Yesterday I posted about having " ♬ ♫ ♪ ...The Best Day.....with You.......Today ♬♫♪ " and today was another one of those days!  We are having such a gorgeous fall this year.......and my youngest daughter has been asking if we could carve pumpkins.......for weeks!  I wasn't really too determmined to make it happen until it occurred to me that she has never experienced this before (can we say 3rd child syndrome? :)!!))  So the other day we bought the biggest and most perfect pumpkin we could find (making Linus proud!)

  Well on the way home, I stopped to buy gas for the mower in one of those little red gas tank containers that I had put in the back of the SUV.  Upon releasing the hatch to get the gas tank out, we both hear a  PLUNK! and no sooner than I could jump out of the vehicle and make my way to the rear that sound was followed by the rolling of our perfect pumpkin right down and across the parking lot of the gas station!  So in my high heels.....here I go-- running across the gas station parking lot in a mad dash to snag our comical- rolling pumpkin as onlookers are laughing and I do manage to grab the pumpkin without being ran over by any entering cars!  SAVE!!!! 
So today it's another beautiful, sunny and glorious fall day and we decide to take on the challenge to carve this Great Pumpkin!  My daughter is so excited she can hardly stand it.  We get everything ready and she draws out her plan using a marker.  I remember the joys of doing this each year in my childhood and I'm feeling a little guilty for not doing this with her before now ;(  (like I said, it's a 3rd child thing......any mommies of 2 or more out there.....hopefully can relate!!)  She especially liked removing  the pulp---gooy-fun!  And so here's the finished product!  Not too shabby if I do say so myself!  And another verse to our Taylor Swift song......."♬♫♪ I had the Best Day.....with You.......Today ♬♫♪ "
 

Day 37: The Best Day with You!

I've posted many times on the wonderful joy my children bring into our lives and this post is about just that.  We are fortunate to get to spend so much time together and all of those years when they were little were filled with so much joy and togetherness.  I recall such pleasure in the simple things such as trips to the grocery store or driving to church.  Packing snacks and little hand sized books to occupy them while mass was going but also cuddling because they always seemed to get snuggly at church.  I have one particularly fond memory of my oldest daughter at church.  She was around 3 and had a little more energy so sitting still for an hour could sometimes be interesting and on this one occassion, she was busy asking me a lot of questions about the hymm book and about "that stuff" they pass out during communion ....."what's dat taste wike?" ;)  well she looked over at me and I was intently reading along in the hymm book and she said "mommy, what does that book say" and I said "it says Cali will be good in church" animatingly pointing to each word as I emphasized my point half heartedly........to which she began to touch the words and repeat to herself (Cali will be good in church.....) and then she realized what she was saying.  She made a disapproing face and replied, "I don't wike dis pwace!" !!!!!  I about rolled out of my chair laughing..........and she was as serious as could be!  Oh the laughter that could be heard from parishoners sitting nearby!  It was truly a Cali moment never to be forgotten!  So honest--and so adorable. 

I realize now just how many of those days we always had.  I wish I could have written them ALL down......I know I have been journaling and keeping their baby books but I've bound to have missed some along the way.   Something so simple would turn into something so funny just because of the innocent and adorable nature of children.   Oh I can't begin to tell you how much fun we have had with our children!   And Taylor Switf's song sums it up quite nicely.  It's called "I had the best day with you......today" and it completely describes my memories with my children.  They made every day new and interesting and enjoyable.  So I'll attach the song if you'd like to listen......and a picture of the title. The Best Day by Taylor Swift

 

 

And now that she is a teenager........we still have the best days! Just last night she had her first ever "going out with friends to a movie and dinner".  You know......where you drop your child off and they run in to the movie theatre and all of their friends are waiting.  Well we of course went over all the reminders of how to handle various scenerios on safety and other issues that may arise (boys were joining them!)  and when I came to pick her up......she was giddy with excitement of the young fun and taste of growing up she had just digested.  We shared a special ride home listening to Taylor Swift (who else? :) and she laid her head on the console between our seats as I ran my hands through her hair and talked to her about how proud her daddy and I are of her.  How much we trust her and feel so good about how she's maturing and making good decisions.  Then I pictured her at age 3 again......and felt that glimmer of how quickly it all goes by.  I'm so thankful we've shared so many "best days" that fill my heart with joy! Watching your children grow up is the "best day" you live every day for those few childhood years that you are blessed enough to have.  May every parent take the time to realize it and seize it! It warms the soul!

Day 36: Gorgeous fall

We are having an absolutely sun-filled and gorgeous fall!  I love this season but it has been especially perect weather this year.  I am so thankul for all the  blessings and what we've been able to get out and do with such pleasurable weather so today--my post is simply on the weather, God's splendor and the gorgeous colors of fall :)

Ok--well I can include some children specialness too!!  We were together for our fall break and enjoyed, among other things......getting some tasks accomplished of our to-do list.....whilst enjoying the gorgeous backdrop of God's perect timing and colorul splendor!!!  And a little Pandora music never hurts :)))  Actually, I have come to realize that Pandora music could get me through ANY task!!!  In addition, home cooking, togetherness, and fall fun!!!  Oh how I cherish these times with our children!!  Thank you God!!!

Day 35: Babies-mine or others

Today my niece visited with her children and it isn't often that we get to see her or her kids because they live in another state, so it was a real treat!  Her children are 4 and 1 and they are so much fun!  Her oldest reminded me of our son at that age.  Very silly and into cars and tractor rides and all things boy.  Her daughter is beginning to pull up on things and crawling around everywhere. 

She reminded me so much of my niece (her mother) as a baby. 
It was great to get to visit with them and I know times flies so quickly.....but for just a few minutes today, I got to pretend that my own children were babers again.  :)  And oh how I love babies, mine or others!

Day 34: Talent Show

I am so proud of Bella Bella!!!  She organized a performance with her friends and then they performed at the talent show--and won!!  She was so excited and it was so much fun to watch!  After hearing rehearsals for the past few weeks, seeing it finally come together was delightful!

Day 33: Music to my ears ;)

I have written before about my daughters and their amazing writing talents.  Tonight, my oldest shared with me some of her most recent song writings.......I was blown away!  She amazes me that she can write with such eloquence and conviction at such a young age.  She has an uncanny ability to write from the heart and passion of an experienced adult when she's merely a 13........and she's been writing since she was 4!!  We laughed at that memory of her very first song (Because of You) and when Kelly Clarkson came out with a hit that same year......she said "mommy, she stole my song!"  :)  The music was completely different but to a 4 year old.....it was her title, so it was her song! 

I've been encouraging her to keep all her writings and even record them so she won't forget the melody she had in mind and she's found a way to get all her songs on the computer now, which is wonderful!  I love listening to her work on a song or share one as she's developing it.  Truly music to my ears!!!

Day 32: Wicked

I took my girls to see the Broadway Musical Wicked this weekend!  It wasn't on Broadway but it was in a beautiful theatre in another town so we made a day of it!  We went out for dinner and did a little shopping too.  It was so nice!! 

I had never seen Wicked before but grew up watching the Wizard of Oz, loved it and my children are fans as well so we thoroughly enjoyed it!  It was very funny and had an interesting storyline of all that went down before Dorothy lands in Oz.  The show was great! If you haven't seen it--I highly recommend it.  They've been doing the tour all around for nearly 10 years now.  I had only recently heard of it within the last few years but come to find out--it came out around 2003. 

Our dinner was at one of our favorite restuarants and as usual, it was delish! But my favorite part of the day was the long car ride home, where my girls and I sang our little hearts out to some Taylor Swift (and other) music!  I so enjoy spending time with them and while the boys were enjoying some manly football......we girls were enjoying some WEtime! 

So I found this one on Pinterest......and just had to include it with this post.  I found it too cute not to share ;)

Day 31: Homework Help

Experienced a wonderful thing tonight.  While my oldest was working online at a scholarship application, his younger sister was working at the same table on Algebraic equations.  She wanted him to check over a couple of her problems and he paused what he was doing long enough to see if her skills were on target.  It was a sweet gesture--and I'm certainly glad older brother recently had Algebra and can offer assistance!  ;)

While this was going on, youngest cub was practicing for an upcoming talent show.  She has written a medley song routine with dance, piano and music and I am so proud of her creativity.  She's been eager to rehearse!  I love it when everyone is home, doing the day-to-day things and life is perfectly, normally, blissful!!  It's one of my favorite times of the day.  Mornings can get hectic, but evenings are so nice.....especially when we all have dinner together at the table (yes, that should be the daily routine but sporting schedules can deter from those routines all too often).  My kids laugh at me for saying this but I love it when everyone is getting along.  (Actually, they say "mom, we always get along"!  And for the most part, they do.  But I just relish in the day to day-peaceful conversations, when everyone is being nice to each other.  Now, in their defense.......they truly do get along well.  And it is rare that we have a flare up or issue with anyone being unkind.....but I enjoy so much the day-to-day happenings of family.  We know they won't be "ours" for much longer.......and they've grown up so quickly already......so I am very much aware and living in the moment.  Which means I am blogging about the most mondane events--which to me, are anything but ;)

Day 31: Little moments

This picture says it all.  I am fully aware of the speed of childhood and how much I treasure every day but I can always use a nice reminder to really relish the little moments! 

So I'm on my way downstairs to breath and notice and touch their (not so tiny anymore) faces.  We've had a nice weekend.......house cleaned and managed to make it to church......also baked a new pinterest recipe for pumpkin cake (which was delish btw) and we danced and laughed but I mostly listened.........to the girls play barbies.....and relished the little moments that make up their childhood.  Thank God for them!

Day 30: Prayer

I found this prayer on pinterest and instantly knew it would be a fav!  It pretty much sums up everything in one clean sweep-

I am continually trying to teach my children the power of prayer.  I am also trying to instill in them the practice of going to God for guidance and direction as well as praising daily for the many blessings we have.  They are teaching me as well.  The other day my youngest was stressing about an upcoming piano lesson and having soccer practice.  She was concerned with doing both things and we stopped to pray.  Instantly the stress was lessened and she turned and said "Mom, I think God is glad we asked his help with this."  

Today she was trying a new recipe and wanted to complete the directions totally independent of my help.  As hard as it was to resist, I watched as she proceeded.  She did a great job and I told her these may be the best snickerdoodles we've ever had.  I could see the pride on her face!  She's such a sweet, energetic bubble of goodness.  I prayed while she was reading the recipe and getting ingredients out, not for the recipe to turn out, but for God to guard my tongue so I wouldn't interfere!  So to her, I say, I think God is really glad I came to him over it.  It allowed her to learn on her own with my support and not with my direction ;)  (always a challenge for me!)

Day 29: F.R.O.G.

You are probably wondering F.R.O.G.??  Let me explain...... earlier I posted about the GET TO outlook on life.  Well the second part of that book is the F.R.O.G. motto which means Fully Rely on God.  (I told you it had a strong spiritual message :)

It's another lesson learned from reading Denise Taylor's book (Heavenly Birth) and it has great impact if we choose to do it! 

It means fully--that is in everything--the good, the bad, the amazing!  It's easy to come to God when we NEED something......when we are struggling....or when we are lost.  But we must remember to rely on God even in the good times and when things are going well. 

Speaking of amazing....I posted about Denise's book and her daughter Jonnae's struggle with leukemia......but after her daughter died, Denise went back to visit her grave site and a frog literally jumped out from under a rock as Denise was placing flowers down!!  WOW!  How amazing is that?  I love it! 

Ok--so now you know......and can apply the F.R.O.G. acronym to your life along with we GET to!

Day 28: My wish

I know there are a lot of sarcastic comments from some parents who say to their children... "I hope one day you have kids just like you" and I cringe because I know they are speaking with sarcasm and their intention is often tongue and cheek, perhaps harmless in nature but it is still contrary to my feelings and view on children.  To me,  is my ultimate wish for my children to have the JOY and GIFT of experiencing even half of what we have experienced in parenting them and I mean it with utmost sincerity.  Our children have been such PURE joy and such amazing blessings.  I truly do pray that they get the joy of experiencing sweet, lovable little blessings who have filled our lives with such awesome experiences and goodness --just like them! I hope they have sparkling personalities and adorable manerisms that delight, and ignite a passion for parenting just like our sweet children did for us! I hope they have sass and a free spirit to be their expressive, individual little selves.  I hope they are inquisitive and creative and cuddly and coy all wrapped up into one.   I cannot even fathom saying that to my child with sarcasm.  Nothing could be further from my heart!

 So--my dear children--know this:  I hope and pray that you are blessed with your own children that bring you as much joy and happiness as you have brought us!  You were perfect little blessings and I hope you get to experience sweet little bundles of goodness--JUST LIKE YOU someday!!

Day 27: Star gaze

I know I've posted before on how my daughters love Taylor Swift and how I am pleasantly surprised that she writes clean music, loves her parents and dresses very classy so I'm glad they have a good role model in popular music.  We've been to her concert and she writes her own  music (which my girls love because they are writers too) but she has an innocence that is adorable.  Well a couple nights ago my girls were so excited for the release of a new TS song and Mtv was premiering the music video. (Actually, I had a flashback to being about their age when Michael Jackson's premiere video for Thriller came out and it was mayhem!  My teachers even let us watch it at school-which was beyond cool for the 80's!) 
Their enthusiasm was contagious so of course I had to join them on the couch and we watched the premiere together.  I must say--it was so sweet watching my girls' excitement build and the gittiness they had over the whole 3 minute segment.  To be young and so enthralled!  It was completely cute!  It occurred to me that they won't always have this child-like excitement for their favorite singers and I'm so glad I can enjoy their music with them.  I am grateful that I enjoy their taste in music and like to listen to it with them.  We've had so many "best days" with Taylor Swift music as the backdrop over the years and her music will always be part of the soundtrack of their childhood.  I love that!

Day 26: GET TO!

I read a book this summer, well I actually read several books but summer is kind of my chance to GET TO read because the schedule of 3 kids can be a little more relaxed in the summer. And I always like to read books that inspire, teach, or uplift in some way.  I have to tell you about one of my summer reads--it will completely have you counting your blessings and holding your children tighter.  It will also likely inspire you to change your attitude and outlook on life!  Even if you have the best attitude.....this book will remind you of just how precious life is and it will make you appreciate life more.
On a side note--I have a personal connection to the book because I know the author and interestingly enough, we went to college together.  She was in a different sorority than I was and she was a little older but it's interesting that our lives would reconnect through her book, her organization and facebook some 20 plus years later.
The story is of her daughter's battle with leukemia and it will make you cry but it will also lift you up and touch your heart <3. 

 

 

I happened to be reading it when we were on vacation so my husband was utterly confused when the tears started flowing and he couldn't understand why I would want to read a book that makes me cry on vacation!  But I told him that I just couldn't put it down and it had a very strong spiritual message (which I shared with everyone in my house).  In the book, the author's (Denise Taylor) daughter Jonnae (who is sick  with Leukemia) poses the question to her mom something like "why does everyone view life in the 'have to' frame of mind? .....why can't they see life as a GET TO?"  and from that point on the GET TO outlook was born.   The author shares her daughter Johnnae's perspective with everyone and immediately they realize the power of flipping just two words!  I won't say more about the book (because you really should read it!) but the author is a mother of 5 children and she has gone on to found a non-profit organization aptly called GET TO. 

So I shared this concept with my family--and wow!  Children have the GREATEST ability to grasp concepts and run with them!  They started using the GET TO attitude in everything!  Sometimes they would catch themselves beginning to gripe or complain about their chores and we'd just look at each other, pause and instantly they'd say "I mean, I GET TO do the dishes" :) 

I was so impressed with the effect that I had to contact the author, Denise on facebook with a message about how her story, her daughter's legacy and her positivity had touched our lives.  She was delighted to hear it!

I'm so proud of our children for so many things, but I am extremely humbled by their connection to Jonnae's story and that they could emulate her positive, spiritual outlook at their ages.  It really is true, what they say about==gratitude changing attitude! 

And that is kind of what started my whole blogging venue (combined with just wanting to mommy journal) so I knew when I finished the book, that I would devote a post to Jonnae, the book, and the WE GET TO foundation.  We often take being healthy for granted.  But when you read Heavenly Birth--you will appreciate your life and the lives of those around you.  Our time here on earth truly is for a purpose.  It is small in comparison to eternity and while heaven will be bliss......we don't want to miss the joy of life while we're here.  Sometimes a negative attitude actually robs us of that joy in small, accummulative ways.  We can change our outlook and we GET TO!

For more information on the foundation-visit http://wegetto.org/

 

Day 25: a new quest!

Hello long, and hopefully not lost friends.  I've been working on my "other" blog so much that I have kind of neglected this one and after looking over my last post, a twinge of guilt popped up ;(  bad mommy!  I really need to get back to this blog more often!  PLUS--my amazingly -talented- blog author -oldest -daughter shared with me a new entry in her own blog today and we ALL know she is always inspiring!!!  So....

I found another cute idea online in the form of a book called My So-Called Life as a Proverbs 31 Wife

and another idea hit me.  I was already kind of doing the gratitude thing with this blog.....and the book might be a good fit.  We'll see.  One of the ideas is a 10-day challenge to be a Poverbs 31 wife.  The book is cute and it was inspired when the author's pastor began a marriage series at church.  From that series, the author says that basically the bible calls men to follow  Ephesians 5:25-28 ~ with just ONE thing to remember, love their wives as much as they love themselves, while women have Proverbs 31, with 21 RULES to follow to be a good wife! :)  Sounds about right ;) huh?  Hence the challenge! 

So I'm not even going to try to make a 10 day posting goal but I am going to intertwine what I was already doing with my blog to include some of what I discover as I embrace this Proverbs 31 Wife challenge ;>   Let's see how this goes.......together!

Day 24: TOMS!

So it might seem materialistic......to devote a post to a shoe brand. But this brand is different. They are a shoe philanthropy--at least they promote that if you buy a shoe, they will donate one to a needy child. If you're going to have a shoe fettish........at least this one makes a worthy cause out of it!
I have a pair of TOMS. They are very comfy. I bought the wedge in blue tye-dye. I'd like to get the pink glitter but my friend recently told me that they were coming out in with flats. So.....I may have to indulge :)

What's a girl without her shoes, huh?? Shoe-less? Still a girl......None-the-lace!
:)

Day 23: Imagination

I was recently working from my laptop/........when I peered over the top of it, only to find one of my precious children.......playing with their food right in front of me. Instantly, all the mondane work I was just moments ago so intent on completing--seemed increasingly UNimportant! After all, my daughter was only inches from my screen--my face. Yet I was completely engrossed in the task at hand. Thank GOD I looked up! Thank GOD I realized that HE was showing me that the MOST important thing is being a MOM!

So I watched her a little longer........completely adoring the brilliant imagination that she has. How she can play with two slices of an orange and make up a story so vivid, you would feel as if you've watched it on a screen! When she caught me watching her, she stopped. Then laughed. Then told me the WHOLE story......and it was adorable! So the potato chip was trying to sneak into the healthy food convention.......and the orange rolled over top of the potato chip. Making the potato chip "crunch" underneath the weight of the orange. That meant that the potato chip was recognized and immediately removed from the healthy convention!

What a story--what great detail and what an imagination!!! I love the mind of children! I love their innocence and how they can become so completely enthralled with their creativeness!!! Thank you God for blessing me with children.....who give meaning to my life every day! And who give pure enjoyment by just being themselves!!!

Day 22: Love~

It's already February!! And Love Is in the AIR!! So I'm reflecting upon the loves of my life.....God, my husband, my children........and countless other blessings that I have the good fortune of experiencing. Where is the love? Where is it when we need to SEE it? Feel it? Hear it? Experience it? Know it??
I am going to try and point out a few examples of love that we often overlook. Maybe these are just simple things we do every day. Or maybe they are extraordinary things that we do simply every day! ;) I prefer the later.
Here goes.......10 ways to know love
1- praise Him
2- pray
3-count! I'm talking about count your blessings....... but also
4-count> Make every minute of every day count!
5-Give
6-Enjoy
7-Laugh
8-Smile
9-Believe/Trust (so much around us is beautiful, blessed and brought to you by G-O-D!
10-Live! Are you living your life the way you dreamed??? Or better??

Ok--so the list is short, to the point and possibly simplistic! But isn't that what we come to realize after all the dust settles??? That LOVE is really just a feeling. Or an act.....of kindness! What has someone done lately that shows you love? What have you done??

Could love truly be......just a mere.......decision, if you will. To know what we have, appreciate it and cherish it! Recognizing that love is all around us! If only we can fill up our hearts with good thought, then proceed with greater actions! Imagine the world??
Happy Valentine's Day!!!
Where is YOUR love?

Day 21: Tim Tebow John 3:16

I have to say, I have been a fan of Tebow since first learning about him when he won the Heisman trophy. I was in awe of his incredible story. From his mother's decision for pro-life, how he was raised in a spiritual-Christian home with incredible values. The way in which he loved and honored his parents. How he is so real and down to earth, yet an incredible role model and humbled heart-amazing God given talent. I was drawn to his goodness. His story of hope, perservearance but most importantly-his faith.

♬ ♫ ♪ What a man, what a man, what a mighty good man ...♬ ♫ ♪ Yes He is! WOW An inspiration and role model who's light SHINES and he humbly gives ALL his glory to God! Makes ya' wanna find your own favorite scripture, proudly proclaim it and watch what happens when God is in the center of your life! Awesome~ May he continue on his amazing journey as we all get to watch and witness God's grace and power! I can't wait to see what he will do. Just amazing! We bought his book for our son to read. I love our book talks about it!

Then just this week......the whole John 3:16 phenomena--WOW. The stats.......probably the most I have ever paid attention to sport stats (other than my own children's :) and I am humbly reminded of the Glory of God. What just the faith of a mustard seed can do. It brought chills down my spine and what a testimony! Continue on your path, Tim Tebow. We are blessed to witness and pleased to enjoy-be inspired!