Today she turns 6.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Happy Birthday Baby Girl
Monday, January 28, 2013
The Utter Relief of Holiness by John Eldredge: Review & #Giveaway
When I heard that I was might get the opportunity to review the new book The Utter Relief of Holiness by John Eldredge, I jumped at the opportunity. I actually have a copy of his wife Staci's Your Captivating Heart on my bedside night stand. I don't know about you, but I yearn for an "utter relief" in a few areas of my own life.
I yearn to be whole and holy just like Ephesians 1:4 says:
Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love.
"Holiness may seem an unattainable goal, a perfection we humans can’t quite reach, or it may seem boring—the spiritual equivalent of flossing. What it proves to be is a relief, says New York Times best-selling author John Eldredge in his new book, The Utter Relief of Holiness: How God’s Goodness Frees Us from Everything that Plagues Us. “If we could recover a vision of what holiness is, we would be absolutely captured by it,” Eldredge says." Eldredge has devoted his career to helping people find the restoration that is available in Jesus Christ. In The Utter Relief of Holiness, he shows how we can share in that “beautiful goodness”: “Jesus can heal what has gone wrong inside each and every one of us. He does this by imparting to us his goodness. God makes us whole by making us holy, he makes us holy by making us whole.”
About the Author:
John Eldredge has written 12 books, including Beautiful Outlaw and New York Times bestsellers Wild at Heart and Captivating (written with his wife Stasi). His books have sold more than 8 million copies. He is the Director of Ransomed Heart, a ministry devoted to helping people discover the heart of God. It has become a grassroots phenomenon with millions of followers.
Do you have the same yearning I do? I am so happy to be able to also bless one of my readers with their very own copy of The Utter Relief of Holiness. Just answer one question on the easy Rafflecopter form. It's not a personal one, I promise.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Friday, January 25, 2013
Abel's Field Review & #Giveaway
Bullying, abandonment, perseverance and knowing that no matter what happens, no matter how dark it gets He (God) is with you is what stood out to me in Abel's Field.
I think I tell you every time I review a movie, how important I feel that it is to bring good quality family films into our homes. Good quality movies that you don't have to fast forward through, that every member can watch, and a life lesson or four can be learned from. Yes, there are some movies I post on here that we might watch, but if you notice. I never elaborate on. We had the opportunity to watch the above movie this week and one of my readers is also going to get their very own copy.
About Abel's Field
Left motherless by tragedy and abandoned by his father, high school senior Seth McArdle (Samuel Davis) faces enormous pressure as he strives to support his little sisters. At school, he endures the daily bullying of the football team. But fighting back only finds him singled out for punishment and assigned to an after-school work detail under the supervision of the reserved groundskeeper, Abel (SOUL SURFER’S Kevin Sorbo). Much to his surprise, Seth discovers that Abel may be the only one who truly understands his struggles. As dark times lure Seth toward desperate measures, the reluctant Abel may be the one person who can point him back toward the light.
Website: http://www.abelsfield.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AbelsField
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AbelsField
Now, who can I bless with their very own copy of the movie? Just enter on the Rafflecopter form!!
"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Etched...Upon My Heart...by Jill Kelly: Review & Giveaway
That is the first sentence of the introduction to the above book. It had me in thought provoking tears. This is something that has been on my mind a lot lately as a mother. Jill Kelly writes, "God will break our hearts, but He will hold the pieces. He will cradle us and redeem every tear we cry." Throughout the book she touches on love, forgiveness, suffering, giving, prayer, death, and messages to her children. These are actually some of the titles of the chapters.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
One of my latest reads, and soon to be one yours is Etched...Upon My Heart: What We Learn and Why We Never Forget by New York Times best-selling author, Jill Kelly. It releases today, January 22, 2013. Wife of NFL legend Jim Kelly, Jill shares deeply personal experiences as a mother trying to make every moment count, against the backdrop of trying circumstances.
"Written to encourage parents who want to instill faith in their children, Kelly shares episodes of her life—some happy, some sad—imparting lessons she hopes will help others pass on the gift of God’s love. Jill writes, “There are precious memories waiting to be unearthed in the moments already etched upon your life. I hope that in sharing some of mine, you’ll be willing and brave enough to open up and share yours.”
Kelly’s touching emotional prose, written with remarkable honesty and tenderness, takes readers into the most private moments of her family’s life and deals realistically with the challenges she’s faced, such as a terminally ill son, an unfaithful husband, and the natural tension from raising Christian kids in a secular society. "Etched...Upon My Heart is an extension of my soul; the heartbeat of what I have learned thus far in my journey as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and child of God,” writes Kelly."
Website: http://www.jillk.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jill-Kelly-AuthorSpeaker/322884036164
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hjkforever
About the Author:
Kelly’s touching emotional prose, written with remarkable honesty and tenderness, takes readers into the most private moments of her family’s life and deals realistically with the challenges she’s faced, such as a terminally ill son, an unfaithful husband, and the natural tension from raising Christian kids in a secular society. "Etched...Upon My Heart is an extension of my soul; the heartbeat of what I have learned thus far in my journey as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and child of God,” writes Kelly."
Website: http://www.jillk.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jill-Kelly-AuthorSpeaker/322884036164
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hjkforever
About the Author:
Jill Kelly is the wife of former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly. In September 1997, months after their infant son, Hunter, was diagnosed with a fatal disease called Krabbe Leukodustrophy, Jim and Jill founded the Hunter’s Hope Foundation. As chairman of the board of Hunter’s Hope, Jill helps children suffering from Leukodystrophy, and their families by raising awareness and research funds to fight this devastating disease. She and Jim live in Buffalo, NY, with their two daughters and three dogs. Hunter’s Hope Foundation can be found online at www.HuntersHope.org. Jill is also the author of Without A Word.
Who wants their very own copy of this book? One of my readers will be blessed with a copy of this book. Just fill out the easy Rafflecopter form below. Bonus entries are available!!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Monday, January 21, 2013
The Best Chicken Pot Pie Ever...
According to my husband, I made the best chicken pot pie ever on Saturday night. Really? I honestly don't even know where I came up with it. My Moma never made it like this. I don't have it anywhere on my Pinterest boards. So, I'm just gonna go with it and claim it as the best ever by ME!!! Lol! Oh and if you did somehow have a hand in this creation you are welcome to speak up and squash my enthusiasm, but it will still be the best ever. Thanks.
Ingredients:
1 13oz can chicken breast
1 can cream of chicken
2 cans mixed vegetables
1 pkg Jiffy Cornbread mix
1 egg
1/3 c milk
Salt
Pepper
Mix Jiffy according to package directions using egg and milk. Set aside. Mix drained veggies & drained chicken together. Mix it well. Add salt and pepper for taste. Pour into 9x13 baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Then add cornbread on top of mixture. Spread evenly. Bake at 400* for 30 min or until cornbread is brown and if poked with a fork or toothpick comes out clean.
How many does it serve? Pretty much my husband and son ate it all, I got one helping and the daughter ate none!!! But probably 6-8!!!
Ingredients:
1 13oz can chicken breast
1 can cream of chicken
2 cans mixed vegetables
1 pkg Jiffy Cornbread mix
1 egg
1/3 c milk
Salt
Pepper
Mix Jiffy according to package directions using egg and milk. Set aside. Mix drained veggies & drained chicken together. Mix it well. Add salt and pepper for taste. Pour into 9x13 baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Then add cornbread on top of mixture. Spread evenly. Bake at 400* for 30 min or until cornbread is brown and if poked with a fork or toothpick comes out clean.
How many does it serve? Pretty much my husband and son ate it all, I got one helping and the daughter ate none!!! But probably 6-8!!!
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Today's Post...
Monday, January 14, 2013
The Injury
Big Brother was in the middle of a pickup basketball game last Friday afternoon in the driveway. I love having the kids in the neighborhood shooting hoops at my house. Then I know what is going on and I can keep an eye on things. Brother had been at it for an hour before sister got home from school. I had warned him ahead of time that she would be playing out also. After all, how many times do we get almost 70 degrees in January?
At 4:30, I heard the scream and cries. I ran to the door where Braden met me with an already tear streaked Kaybrie. He has dribbled in for a shot, she walked in front of him, and unfortunately was knocked flat on her back hitting her head in the concrete driveway.
I did all the things I was supposed to. Looked for dilation of her pupils, asked how many fingers I was holding up, made her follow my fingers and checked for bumps. All of the checks were perfect. I held my crying baby for an hour. She complained of a headache in the front of her head and said the TV looked funny. She even managed to eat a honey bun through the sniffles.
At 5:30, Jason came home from work. We no more told him what had happened and the vomiting started. I immediately called the pediatrician on call. He told me she probably did have a concussion, but to monitor her closely. More vomiting=Go to Emergency Room. At 7:00 we were dressing for that trip.
We were taken into an ER room quickly. A CT scan was ordered. The scan showed two small spots of inner cranial bleeding. They admitted her for overnight observation. At this point you seriously would not have known anything was wrong with my almost six year old daughter. Other than the occasional complaint that her head hurt when she would lay on her tummy or her right side.
When the injury occurred, the force on the back of the head knocked the brain forward causing it to hit the front of the skull. Similar to whiplash. She was monitored overnight. Her neurology tests were all perfect and she was released the next day around one. She was given strict instructions to rest & limited activity for four weeks. No horseback riding, wrestling, hockey, bull riding or cartwheels. She is rather concerned about the cartwheels since they play a part in an upcoming dance recital, she claims that the show WILL go on with her though. That's my girl.
It evidently is going to take LOTS of rest for my princess to fully recover from this injury. She only stayed for 1/2 day at school today. After seeing her pediatrician today, I am told it is normal to have headaches and tummy aches from a concussion, it can even last months. So a few more half days have been ordered.
Now, after the four weeks is over I will be faced with a few new challenges.
1) Make sure she never gets in the way of a basketball game again.
2) Wear her bike helmet on all concrete surfaces.
3) Learn to block her brother's shot while wearing that helmet.
For more information on head injuries/concussions be sure to visit: http://www.webmd.com/brain/concussion-traumatic-brain-injury-symptoms-causes-treatments
And always, always take any type of head injury very serious. I think I always was prepared for such an injury in sports with my son, but not a simple at home accident involving my daughter. It can happen anytime, anywhere.
At 4:30, I heard the scream and cries. I ran to the door where Braden met me with an already tear streaked Kaybrie. He has dribbled in for a shot, she walked in front of him, and unfortunately was knocked flat on her back hitting her head in the concrete driveway.
I did all the things I was supposed to. Looked for dilation of her pupils, asked how many fingers I was holding up, made her follow my fingers and checked for bumps. All of the checks were perfect. I held my crying baby for an hour. She complained of a headache in the front of her head and said the TV looked funny. She even managed to eat a honey bun through the sniffles.
At 5:30, Jason came home from work. We no more told him what had happened and the vomiting started. I immediately called the pediatrician on call. He told me she probably did have a concussion, but to monitor her closely. More vomiting=Go to Emergency Room. At 7:00 we were dressing for that trip.
We were taken into an ER room quickly. A CT scan was ordered. The scan showed two small spots of inner cranial bleeding. They admitted her for overnight observation. At this point you seriously would not have known anything was wrong with my almost six year old daughter. Other than the occasional complaint that her head hurt when she would lay on her tummy or her right side.
When the injury occurred, the force on the back of the head knocked the brain forward causing it to hit the front of the skull. Similar to whiplash. She was monitored overnight. Her neurology tests were all perfect and she was released the next day around one. She was given strict instructions to rest & limited activity for four weeks. No horseback riding, wrestling, hockey, bull riding or cartwheels. She is rather concerned about the cartwheels since they play a part in an upcoming dance recital, she claims that the show WILL go on with her though. That's my girl.
It evidently is going to take LOTS of rest for my princess to fully recover from this injury. She only stayed for 1/2 day at school today. After seeing her pediatrician today, I am told it is normal to have headaches and tummy aches from a concussion, it can even last months. So a few more half days have been ordered.
Now, after the four weeks is over I will be faced with a few new challenges.
1) Make sure she never gets in the way of a basketball game again.
2) Wear her bike helmet on all concrete surfaces.
3) Learn to block her brother's shot while wearing that helmet.
For more information on head injuries/concussions be sure to visit: http://www.webmd.com/brain/concussion-traumatic-brain-injury-symptoms-causes-treatments
And always, always take any type of head injury very serious. I think I always was prepared for such an injury in sports with my son, but not a simple at home accident involving my daughter. It can happen anytime, anywhere.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Posey Lane- My New Favorite Personalized Online Boutique
There comes a time in every little girl's life when she outgrows her favorite hooded ladybug "Laney" towel that she has owned since before she could walk. That time is now for my little ladybug princess, just shy of her 6th birthday. I knew it was going to happen, but she still wants her own "personal" towel to use. I blame the Disney Channel and all of those girly commercials for making her grow up too soon.
About Posy Lane from the site:
"After many years of retail experience, Posy Lane, Inc. was founded by Kerrie Barton in 2007, with the support of her long-suffering husband Nathen. The store-front was located in downtown McKinney, Texas in the historic square. Customers quickly came to rely on Posy Lane to supply them with unique gifts and invitations for every occasion, as well as printing and embroidery services.
After nearly two years of offering exceptional products and service, the couple prepared for the birth of their first child. So, Posy Lane Inc. closed its brick-and-mortar doors in May 2009 to focus exclusively on the internet portion of the business, allowing them the opportunity to work from home and take care of their newborn son. Attention to detail and customer service has paid off. We have our own North Dallas warehouse and workspace, and a staff of two full time and three part time employees. Whether you are a loyal customer we met at the store in McKinney, a repeat on-line customer, or a new customer, we are committed to providing you with the finest products, biggest selection and best services in the timeliest manner possible."
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posey Lane is an internet boutique store that specializes in personalized gifts and embroidery. When contacted to do a review I immediately went to their kids shower wraps.
I chose the Black & Hot Pink Mint Bath Towel Wrap for Miss K in the Tween-size, it is 21 inches in length and fit busts 26 to 32 inches. I wanted her to be sure to be able to use it for a few growing years. I hate when my kids outgrow embroidered items. I ordered on Friday and had it by Wednesday! A five day turnaround!! When I opened the package, I was immediately impressed with the quality of the wrap. It is SO soft with its minky fabric, and I asked to be surprised on the font style- simply beautiful!!
Don't you love it as much as Miss K does? What do you think? I think I'm off to order my very own now with Mrs. Crow on it, maybe even matching...
About Posy Lane from the site:
"After many years of retail experience, Posy Lane, Inc. was founded by Kerrie Barton in 2007, with the support of her long-suffering husband Nathen. The store-front was located in downtown McKinney, Texas in the historic square. Customers quickly came to rely on Posy Lane to supply them with unique gifts and invitations for every occasion, as well as printing and embroidery services.
After nearly two years of offering exceptional products and service, the couple prepared for the birth of their first child. So, Posy Lane Inc. closed its brick-and-mortar doors in May 2009 to focus exclusively on the internet portion of the business, allowing them the opportunity to work from home and take care of their newborn son. Attention to detail and customer service has paid off. We have our own North Dallas warehouse and workspace, and a staff of two full time and three part time employees. Whether you are a loyal customer we met at the store in McKinney, a repeat on-line customer, or a new customer, we are committed to providing you with the finest products, biggest selection and best services in the timeliest manner possible."
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
The 5 Money Personalities Review & #Giveaway
I'm a former bank manger/officer I should know how to save, budget, manage- right?
You would think so, but unfortunately life happens, excuses happen.
The fact is we are not always good stewards with our money. One of our goals this year is to sell our current home and purchase a new home. We have discussed though that it is time for us to make changes and in order to do so we both have to recognize where to spend and save. It's not surprising to me that my primary money personality is a SAVER and my secondary is a SPENDER. I personally see this as a disaster. I love saving money, what a rush! Competitive ad shopping, couponing, online deals- I can save, save, save! But then I usually turn around and spend, spend, spend that savings on another savings item. What a vicious cycle. I recognize this and am going to have to make some changes.
I was offered the opportunity to read The 5 Money Personalities by Scott and Bethany Palmer and knew this was an opportunity for change. I am also able to help bless one of my readers with a copy of this book. Who wants it? Finish reading this post, then enter on the easy Rafflecopter form.
About The 5 Money Personalities:
The hidden key to a healthy relationship is not just managing money but understanding how the other approaches money.
Every couple argues about money. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been married for 40 years or dating for 4 months, money touches every decision you make as a couple—from the $5 cup of coffee to the $50,000 car. And when the two of you don’t see eye-to-eye on how much to spend or how much to save, that’s when arguments turn into ugly toxic fights that leave both persons feeling hurt and angry. It’s why money has become the #1 cause of divorce in the U.S. Obviously, something needs to change. The reason this crisis has not been addressed is because it has never been identified, defined, or given a name. Scott and Bethany Palmer, aka “The Money Couple,” have identified and defined this problem and offer concrete solutions to fix it.
Once you know your Money Personality, you can get to the root of money arguments and start really working together. You’ll discover what has an impact on your loved one’s money decisions, and you’ll learn how to talk about money in a way that’s actually fun! You’ll figure out how to put an end to money secrets and lies once and for all.
It’s not just about money management, and it’s definitely not just about overcoming debt. It is a whole new way of living that will change everything in your relationship. Tens of thousands have already been transformed. Are you ready?
About Scott & Bethany Palmer:
"The Money Couple", have dedicated their lives to helping other strengthen their relationships with the 5 Money Personalities. With 43 years of combined financial planning experience, they launched "The Money Couple" and are regulars on national TV and radio and speak internationally about love and money. Scott and Bethany enjoy an active lifestyle in Colorado with their two young sons, Cole and Cade.
Website: http://themoneycouple.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMoneyCouple
Twitter: https://twitter.com/themoneycouple
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Today's Post...
...is at The RHOK!
Today I tell you as Mrs. Hart why I know it's time for a New Year and time for a change of my habits.
I give you ten reasons.
Please, do not think less of me.
An ugly habit that I have picked up with having a family sick for three weeks in addition to two weeks of Christmas Vacation.
Monday, January 7, 2013
Today's Post...
In summary: Gather. Grow. Connect."
Today I am making an announcement about a change that is getting ready to take place in my life.
Friday, January 4, 2013
The Pinspiration Project: Peppermint Crunch Puppy Chow
Welcome to the Pinspiration Project Link Up from Beth at Masterpiece.
But before we get to my project for the week which is Christmas Creativity and Cooking, allow me to introduce the Pinspiration Project.
There is a page (linked at the top of Beth's website) where you can find the button code for this link up as well as the images for the 0 – 5 Pins rating system. Feel free to find a Pinterest Project (recipe, craft, or etc.), create it, write about it on your blog, and link it up below. Looking forward to reading about the Pinspiration that you choose to share.
Throughout December, I shared with you 15 days of A Very Pinteresting Christmas with The 4-Crow's. If you didn't get the opportunity to link up or read these posts, I encourage you to take a look at the archives.
I actually shared today's recipe in this post, but it was so good, and such a twist on a "traditional" recipe that I thought it would be worth sharing again. Besides, with Candy Canes anywhere from 50-90% off right now, why wouldn't you want to make a batch. And I will confess, during my 17 days of not being able to breath, I actually could taste this recipe. The original pin came from here.
- 5 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 10 ounces melting white chocolate OR vanilla flavored Almond Bark
- 1 cup crushed candy canes (I used my ninja to crush mine, so they are a super fine powder)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Pour 5 cups of Chex Cereal into a large bowl. Melt white chocolate/almond bark according to the package directions. Pour melted chocolate over cereal, stirring and folding until the cereal is completely covered. Fold in the crushed candy canes
In a large zipped top bag or covered container, add the powdered sugar. Pour the chocolate covered cereal/candy canes into the large bag or container. Seal the bag or container and shake until all the cereal is coated with the powdered mixture.
Discard excess powder and enjoy!
Store at room temperature up to 2 weeks, if it lasts that long!
I give this Pinspiration Project:
What was your Pinspiration Project during Christmas? The week? Please visit Beth at Masterpiece and link up this week.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Making Stuff
Pinterest. The site I love. And face it haters, hate. Some get it, some don't. It's a site that you make it what you want to make of it. I choose to look for new creative ideas, gift ideas, budget saving ideas, recipes and home organization strategies. I am not a Stepford wife. I think aiming for perfection while knowing you will never succeed is okay. It's a lot like Christianity. I'm never going to be perfect like Jesus, but I am suppose be Christ like. Oh yeah your thinking, Pinterest vs Jesus, that's a fantastic comparison. Well, I do have an All Things Faith Board.
No really, I'm on my "soapbox" because of a put down Pinterest post I saw on Facebook a few days ago. A post that I failed to pin, because you can't pin from Facebook and now I can't find. What it comes down to is different interests and choices for different people. Different strokes for different folks. I do not choose to build outside forts with my children, to be honest you won't find to many pictures of me in the great outdoors. Forestry Camp in high school became a game of boys those two years. I choose to craft, read, volunteer, run a mom taxi to and from sporting events while coaching in and out of the stands. I get a lot of my ideas for those things and create memories for my family through guess where? That's right, Pinterest.
This year it is my goal to make more stuff, spend more time with my kids making stuff, encourage them to make stuff, keep looking for stuff that I may or may not ever do anything with and keep putting stuff on my Faith board to help me in my goal to be more Christ like.
Side note: I guess my "obsession" with Pinterest is also rubbing off on my five year old daughter. She wants to look up crafts, puppies and American Girl merchandise on my phone all the time. So much so, that when she received her iPod for Christmas that one of the first apps she asked for was, you guessed it- Pinterest. I did not give it to her.
No really, I'm on my "soapbox" because of a put down Pinterest post I saw on Facebook a few days ago. A post that I failed to pin, because you can't pin from Facebook and now I can't find. What it comes down to is different interests and choices for different people. Different strokes for different folks. I do not choose to build outside forts with my children, to be honest you won't find to many pictures of me in the great outdoors. Forestry Camp in high school became a game of boys those two years. I choose to craft, read, volunteer, run a mom taxi to and from sporting events while coaching in and out of the stands. I get a lot of my ideas for those things and create memories for my family through guess where? That's right, Pinterest.
This year it is my goal to make more stuff, spend more time with my kids making stuff, encourage them to make stuff, keep looking for stuff that I may or may not ever do anything with and keep putting stuff on my Faith board to help me in my goal to be more Christ like.
Side note: I guess my "obsession" with Pinterest is also rubbing off on my five year old daughter. She wants to look up crafts, puppies and American Girl merchandise on my phone all the time. So much so, that when she received her iPod for Christmas that one of the first apps she asked for was, you guessed it- Pinterest. I did not give it to her.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Unwrapping the Christmas Decorations
Kaybrie and I unwrapped our Christmas tree and packed away all that glistens and decorates our home during our favorite time of the year today. The only signs of Christmas 2012 left at our nest are the lights on the house which will remain until Monday- lights belong to Daddy Crow and he won't have a day off until Sunday/Monday. I even took care of the outside decorations.
In our home, it is typically the kids and Jason that put the tree together. In a hurry, with me handing over the ornaments I want on the tree. We do some reflection upon where this ornament came from or who made that one or why isn't that one going on the tree, but its not exactly a Hallmark commercial. Those moments are usually reserved for me, alone, on the day I unwrap my tree and wrap each ornament carefully and pack it away. A few tears may have even been shed today as I went through these ornaments.
This year, I packed everything away even more carefully. Prayerfully. In hope that we just celebrated our last Christmas in this home- our 9th. In anticipation that God will lead us into the direction of another, larger home to celebrate many more birthdays of our Savior.
In our home, it is typically the kids and Jason that put the tree together. In a hurry, with me handing over the ornaments I want on the tree. We do some reflection upon where this ornament came from or who made that one or why isn't that one going on the tree, but its not exactly a Hallmark commercial. Those moments are usually reserved for me, alone, on the day I unwrap my tree and wrap each ornament carefully and pack it away. A few tears may have even been shed today as I went through these ornaments.
This year, I packed everything away even more carefully. Prayerfully. In hope that we just celebrated our last Christmas in this home- our 9th. In anticipation that God will lead us into the direction of another, larger home to celebrate many more birthdays of our Savior.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
The Bath
Bowl games on in the living room. PS3 on in the boy's room. Good Luck Charlie playing on the Disney Channel. I decide to take this rare opportunity of no refereeing, cooking, cleaning or laundry and empty a bottle of shower gel (it's all I could find) into my garden tub and fill it with the hottest water I can stand. I had just settled in and leaned back with a paperback book when I feel these piercing eyes looking at me. "I just wanted to see if you needed anything Mommy", my five year old daughter said.
I knew the true reason for her visit. Yes, some may say five is too old to jump in the tub with her Mommy, but I know soon she truly will be too big for such an occurrence and that the desire will no longer be there at all. I must cherish these Mommy moments because they soon will be over and I will have the bath alone once more.
I knew the true reason for her visit. Yes, some may say five is too old to jump in the tub with her Mommy, but I know soon she truly will be too big for such an occurrence and that the desire will no longer be there at all. I must cherish these Mommy moments because they soon will be over and I will have the bath alone once more.
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