4 decades!! Today my lovely husband celebrates his 40th birthday.
The best part of our day started with Elaina romping into our room along about 6:15 a.m. (per usual) and wishing her Daddy a happy birthday. Very soon she realized that she hadn't yet had time to make him a card and hustled right downstairs to do just that.
About a half hour and a little light sleeping (for us) later, she blew up stairs, envelope and card in hand, and excitedly handed over her creation to Eric. Inside the heart covered envelope was a paper covered, singing Valentine's day card which she cleverly recycled with birthday wishes and her love in the form of XOXOXO and hearts strewn about. She had taped on a new cover and inside message to disguise the Valentine's day message - but when the music began to sing about Cupid and Valentine's day, Eric and I couldn't help but to chuckle! I'm pretty sure that was the very best card ever made!
Friday, December 16, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Christmas Program
And we're rounding out yet another busy week. This evening, my in-laws arrived in time for dinner and to attend Elaina's first grade Christmas program. Already I like the fact that the school never weaseled out and referred to it as a "Holiday" program. It's Christmas for goodness sake - call it what it is!
The four classes of first graders brought together about a hundred kids and it was utterly amazing how in tune they were with following the music director by hand signals and gestures alone. Elaina had a short speaking part in which she introduced a song and all of the kids were more than adorable.
As we watched them and listened to them sing all of their seven songs, I realized that these really are most important and enjoyable and memorable moments of my life. At no cost and no fanfare. The sheer innocence and glory of 6 and 7 year old voices singing Christmas songs is likely one of the best gifts I will receive this season. Thankful!
The four classes of first graders brought together about a hundred kids and it was utterly amazing how in tune they were with following the music director by hand signals and gestures alone. Elaina had a short speaking part in which she introduced a song and all of the kids were more than adorable.
As we watched them and listened to them sing all of their seven songs, I realized that these really are most important and enjoyable and memorable moments of my life. At no cost and no fanfare. The sheer innocence and glory of 6 and 7 year old voices singing Christmas songs is likely one of the best gifts I will receive this season. Thankful!
Monday, December 12, 2011
Fresh Start
Today was the dawning of a new era at work. One of our co-workers had received the promotion of becoming our new supervisor. While he has a big job ahead of him, the oppression of our previous babysitter supervisor has come to an end. I thought of how much I wouldn't miss her scrutinizing remarks, her snarky comments and her most irritating habits. It was finally a work day worth looking forward to.
In other news, Elaina has been giving us a run for our money in the behavioral department. It's been a while since we've enjoyed the pleasant, calm and rational Elaina. And tonight, she was back! I told her over and over how delightful her behavior was and how much I didn't want to put her to bed tonight so that I could just stay up and enjoy her. I also made mention that when she doesn't behave like this, I want to put her to bed early to give my ears a break.
I'm thankful for the peace in my day, the enjoyment that was brought to each transition of my day and my husband coming home safely after working a 14 hour day.
In other news, Elaina has been giving us a run for our money in the behavioral department. It's been a while since we've enjoyed the pleasant, calm and rational Elaina. And tonight, she was back! I told her over and over how delightful her behavior was and how much I didn't want to put her to bed tonight so that I could just stay up and enjoy her. I also made mention that when she doesn't behave like this, I want to put her to bed early to give my ears a break.
I'm thankful for the peace in my day, the enjoyment that was brought to each transition of my day and my husband coming home safely after working a 14 hour day.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
trip.
Today, Eric booked our trip to Florida! HOORAY!
It's been 2 years since we've gone on a winter vacation and even longer than that since we've gone on a summer vacation for more than 3 consecutive days.
I guess that it's time! While in Florida, we have the pleasure of spending half of the week with my grandma and the other half of the week with my in-laws. It's fortunate that we're going to be saving money on lodging since this Florida vacation will include a trip to Disney! It seem as though I am thrilled to pieces and I'm so looking forward to sharing the Magical Kingdom with my family.
Looking at the prices for airfare and Disney tickets, I am more than thankful that we are able to do this for our kids. That we have the good fortune of having jobs and very little debt that help to make this possible. Most of all, I am thankful that we have two healthy kids that we have the privilege of calling our own to bring this magic into their lives.
It's been 2 years since we've gone on a winter vacation and even longer than that since we've gone on a summer vacation for more than 3 consecutive days.
I guess that it's time! While in Florida, we have the pleasure of spending half of the week with my grandma and the other half of the week with my in-laws. It's fortunate that we're going to be saving money on lodging since this Florida vacation will include a trip to Disney! It seem as though I am thrilled to pieces and I'm so looking forward to sharing the Magical Kingdom with my family.
Looking at the prices for airfare and Disney tickets, I am more than thankful that we are able to do this for our kids. That we have the good fortune of having jobs and very little debt that help to make this possible. Most of all, I am thankful that we have two healthy kids that we have the privilege of calling our own to bring this magic into their lives.
Monday, December 5, 2011
birthday.
I'm thankful for my birthday. Praise God that He allowed me another year older. More days to live to the fullest and be the best person that I can be.
This morning, I called my parents to thank them for birthing me; most of the gratitude to my Mother;-) My friends took me to lunch. A co-worker brought in cupcakes. My facebook page was full of birthday wishes. Friends joined us for dinner before visiting Santa and my family surprised me with some gifties from B&BW.
A beautiful day.
And the fun hardly stopped there. Both kids were excited to see Santa this year. There was no trepidation, no fear - just pure magic for the asking. Elaina popped herself right up on Santa's knee along with the Toys R Us catalog and pointed to at least a dozen things that she wanted. Lincoln ran over to Santa and really just wanted some conversation. Santa gifted them both with 'magical' elves; Lincoln's first year to care for one of his own.
It truly was a great night and the only thing that could have made it better was more sleep. Sill fighting a cold and apparently my (new) old age has just worn me out.
This morning, I called my parents to thank them for birthing me; most of the gratitude to my Mother;-) My friends took me to lunch. A co-worker brought in cupcakes. My facebook page was full of birthday wishes. Friends joined us for dinner before visiting Santa and my family surprised me with some gifties from B&BW.
A beautiful day.
And the fun hardly stopped there. Both kids were excited to see Santa this year. There was no trepidation, no fear - just pure magic for the asking. Elaina popped herself right up on Santa's knee along with the Toys R Us catalog and pointed to at least a dozen things that she wanted. Lincoln ran over to Santa and really just wanted some conversation. Santa gifted them both with 'magical' elves; Lincoln's first year to care for one of his own.
It truly was a great night and the only thing that could have made it better was more sleep. Sill fighting a cold and apparently my (new) old age has just worn me out.
familiar
Did I mention that hunting season is (almost) drawing to a close? And were you aware that my beloved husband also stops shaving his face at the end of October? An entire month of wiskers.
Joy.
And so, 5 whole minutes before friends were coming over for dinner, Eric decided it was beard-off-night. He busted out the clippers and tackled his furry face until I could see the silouhette of the familiar face I had once known. After a quick shower and full shave, my husband had been renewed. Smooth, clean and handsome. Tonight's thanks is all about my handsome husband and his face that I love. I'm glad to see it's return.
Joy.
And so, 5 whole minutes before friends were coming over for dinner, Eric decided it was beard-off-night. He busted out the clippers and tackled his furry face until I could see the silouhette of the familiar face I had once known. After a quick shower and full shave, my husband had been renewed. Smooth, clean and handsome. Tonight's thanks is all about my handsome husband and his face that I love. I'm glad to see it's return.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Church play
Rest is good. A day of doing so very minimal, almost nothing - priceless.
Today I have felt much better. And so much for a day without commitment. Housework. Decorating Christmas outside. Laundry. Oh, and a little Christmas play that Elaina has been working on for nearly 3 weeks. This evening was the grand performance.
I signed up to help prepare the miniature cast with their stage make-up. I took the liberty of doing Elaina's darling face at home and sparing time for the rest of the kids. Within an hour, all the kids faces were shining like disco balls with glitter swept across their eyelids and their bodies busy with excitement.
Let me also mention that Lincoln wanted no part in attending play practice but, by the time the play actually rolled around, he whined that he wanted to be in the play. So. It doesn't quite work that way.
Seeing Elaina glowing with equal parts of confidence and blush, she made me so very proud. She delivered her lines with ease and hit her mark every time. To say that I am thankful for this girl would be a great understatement. To say that this child makes my heart happy and completes my life is a closer to the truth.
Today I have felt much better. And so much for a day without commitment. Housework. Decorating Christmas outside. Laundry. Oh, and a little Christmas play that Elaina has been working on for nearly 3 weeks. This evening was the grand performance.
I signed up to help prepare the miniature cast with their stage make-up. I took the liberty of doing Elaina's darling face at home and sparing time for the rest of the kids. Within an hour, all the kids faces were shining like disco balls with glitter swept across their eyelids and their bodies busy with excitement.
Let me also mention that Lincoln wanted no part in attending play practice but, by the time the play actually rolled around, he whined that he wanted to be in the play. So. It doesn't quite work that way.
Seeing Elaina glowing with equal parts of confidence and blush, she made me so very proud. She delivered her lines with ease and hit her mark every time. To say that I am thankful for this girl would be a great understatement. To say that this child makes my heart happy and completes my life is a closer to the truth.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Simple things
Maybe it's a head cold. Maybe my neck pipes are rusting and discenigrating. Still unable to discern. But I don't feel good. That, I am certain.
Though today carried no commitments, we were invited to a surprise party to celebrate one of Eric's friends/ co-worker's birthday. Since I could see no way that my pajamas or my blanket would be acceptable at such an event, Eric took the kids and left me to rest at home. This concludes my day.
Yet... the light at the end of the tunnel. As I was putting Lincoln to bed he asked for a drink of water, upon my return with his mini cup only partly full, he whispered "thanks Mom. You're the best." My day had become fulfilled. Blessed by this thirsty boy.
Though today carried no commitments, we were invited to a surprise party to celebrate one of Eric's friends/ co-worker's birthday. Since I could see no way that my pajamas or my blanket would be acceptable at such an event, Eric took the kids and left me to rest at home. This concludes my day.
Yet... the light at the end of the tunnel. As I was putting Lincoln to bed he asked for a drink of water, upon my return with his mini cup only partly full, he whispered "thanks Mom. You're the best." My day had become fulfilled. Blessed by this thirsty boy.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Grueling
It's been a grueling week. It's week 2 of hunting season which easily translates to "mostly single mom season." The kids have had severe attitudes which have landed them early bedtimes. I've been battling cold symptoms and migraines. And I'm looking at the third week in a row that my dining room is filled to capacity with closet purge/ outgrown clothes/ Christmas totes/ and incomplete projects - all needing attention and a new home. This, alone, makes me batty.
At this point, I am thankful that the weekend is finally here, I've posted the 25 Days of Christmas tv schedule on the fridge and we don't have *too* many commitments for the weekend. I'm thankful for leftovers for dinner and brownie sundaes to celebrate a "green month" for Elaina (green on her daily report is good) and enjoying the fireplace in the kitchen to keep me toasty warm. Capping off my evening, an early bedtime for me and a husband who is picking up some slack while I'm tucked into my bed.
At this point, I am thankful that the weekend is finally here, I've posted the 25 Days of Christmas tv schedule on the fridge and we don't have *too* many commitments for the weekend. I'm thankful for leftovers for dinner and brownie sundaes to celebrate a "green month" for Elaina (green on her daily report is good) and enjoying the fireplace in the kitchen to keep me toasty warm. Capping off my evening, an early bedtime for me and a husband who is picking up some slack while I'm tucked into my bed.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Finding Good. And other things.
This is one heck of a way to kick off the gratitude blog.
As I was brushing Elaina's hair before bedtime on Tuesday, I noticed a little glisten in one of her strands of hair. A tiny "bulb" if you will, that seemed pointedly out of place. Investigating more closely, it was becoming more clear to me that I had found a dreadful nit in her hair. (Since my blogging break, I have failed to mention that we've been through this before with Elaina back in June.) Oh, the work that is involved with nits and long hair.
Tonight's thanks is that we already had the shampoo/ treatment on hand and 3 hours later (and about 10 loads of laundry), we had remedied her of what could have potentially been spread to all of her friends and family. I caught it early and at this point, I feel confident that our house and our heads are free and clear of this dastardly little bother.
As I was brushing Elaina's hair before bedtime on Tuesday, I noticed a little glisten in one of her strands of hair. A tiny "bulb" if you will, that seemed pointedly out of place. Investigating more closely, it was becoming more clear to me that I had found a dreadful nit in her hair. (Since my blogging break, I have failed to mention that we've been through this before with Elaina back in June.) Oh, the work that is involved with nits and long hair.
Tonight's thanks is that we already had the shampoo/ treatment on hand and 3 hours later (and about 10 loads of laundry), we had remedied her of what could have potentially been spread to all of her friends and family. I caught it early and at this point, I feel confident that our house and our heads are free and clear of this dastardly little bother.
It's time. No, really.
No excuses. No more.
So much of life passes us by goes so. fast. these days. While it's (mostly) all good, I can barely seem to keep up - even on a good day. At the same time, I'm so thankful for all of the goodness and fulfillment that this crazy, hectic life has to offer and that's become my newest inspiration for breathing new life into this very stale blog.
A friend of mine posts her facebook statuses under, '#1000 thanks.' And as sure as I can make time to facebook, I AM going to make time to post my thanks. My gratitude journal as Oprah suggests. Some thing or event in our day that makes my heart sing and deserves preservation.
Let's face it, I'm not a great writer by any stretch and it seems apparent that I have a tendency to ramble, feel overwhelmed and then shut down. (thus: no blogging) But this, this will be easy. And on the heel of Thanksgiving and the Christmas season, there is just SO much that I am thankful for each and every day.
I can be mostly certain that many of my posts may be choppy. Some may seem mundane while some may seem down right boisterous. But, this is life - our life - and there's not a single day that I don't feel more blessed than I deserve.
Let the gratitude GUSH!!!!
So much of life passes us by goes so. fast. these days. While it's (mostly) all good, I can barely seem to keep up - even on a good day. At the same time, I'm so thankful for all of the goodness and fulfillment that this crazy, hectic life has to offer and that's become my newest inspiration for breathing new life into this very stale blog.
A friend of mine posts her facebook statuses under, '#1000 thanks.' And as sure as I can make time to facebook, I AM going to make time to post my thanks. My gratitude journal as Oprah suggests. Some thing or event in our day that makes my heart sing and deserves preservation.
Let's face it, I'm not a great writer by any stretch and it seems apparent that I have a tendency to ramble, feel overwhelmed and then shut down. (thus: no blogging) But this, this will be easy. And on the heel of Thanksgiving and the Christmas season, there is just SO much that I am thankful for each and every day.
I can be mostly certain that many of my posts may be choppy. Some may seem mundane while some may seem down right boisterous. But, this is life - our life - and there's not a single day that I don't feel more blessed than I deserve.
Let the gratitude GUSH!!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)