Day 30: Phew! November is done, just about. Can you believe it? Tomorrow begins the countdown for Christmas and today is the last day to post what I'm thankful for.
This has been a great exercise because there have been times where I have felt less than thankful. We've been sick a lot this month and there were times when I was stuck in the house and feeling a bit sorry for myself. I had to look beyond my circumstances and how I was feeling to focus on what to be thankful for.
I've been wanting to post about being a stay at home mom for quite awhile. I think there is a bigger post in there somewhere but for now I will say it has been the biggest blessing and answer to a 4 year long prayer request.
These moments I get to spend with Lily, especially since she's off to kindergarten next year, have been precious. I know many moms say that; but it's true. To be in Lily's world is to be in a happy place. I'm glad I get to share so much of my day with her.
Not having to leave Henry ever to go work like I did with Lily has been so amazing. I don't think Lily suffered much at all by me going to work; but I did!!! Is it always easy? No. Do I ever yearn, and sometimes beg, for just an hour to myself? Heck, ya. Would I trade all the mornings we get to cuddle instead of me rushing off to work? No way.
Working moms.........you are AMAZING!!!! I've been there. It's just plain hard. You balance so much and sacrifice a lot. Whether you choose to work or just have to to provide for your family, I give you props.
I'm blessed to be able to say home at this time. I don't know if it will always be like this. I'm sure things will grow and change as my kids grow and change. I'm just thankful that I am where God wants me to be at this time.
So there's my 30 Days of Thankfulness. Hopefully it encouraged others to be thankful, too.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Thursday, November 29, 2012
My Sister: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 29: My Sister
I should say my sisters. I have two wonderful sisters who for so many years looked after me like Mama #2 and #3. They always have my back and they are pretty darn funny.
I'm posting about my sister, Patricia, today because we did something awesome this afternoon. I'll get to what we did in a minute. She lives in Colorado now, so I don't get to see her but maybe a couple of times a year. I giggle a lot with her and act super silly. I love it. She also gives real solid advice, which I need from time to time. She loves on my kids and when I was young, I clocked a lot of hours spending time with her kids. (Who are now 21 and 19. Yikes!!) Her hubby taught me to drive ( My whole family is thankful for that one!)
She's a pretty great sister and though our personalities are pretty different, we have something in common........our love of Twilight. Yes, they are silly and totally unrealistic movies; but we love them and are not ashamed of it. We've never been able to see a Twilight movie because she lives 3 states away. Not this time, though. How fitting that for the final installment of Twilight, we were able to go see it together. And, let me say, it did not disappoint. Team Edward!!
I should say my sisters. I have two wonderful sisters who for so many years looked after me like Mama #2 and #3. They always have my back and they are pretty darn funny.
I'm posting about my sister, Patricia, today because we did something awesome this afternoon. I'll get to what we did in a minute. She lives in Colorado now, so I don't get to see her but maybe a couple of times a year. I giggle a lot with her and act super silly. I love it. She also gives real solid advice, which I need from time to time. She loves on my kids and when I was young, I clocked a lot of hours spending time with her kids. (Who are now 21 and 19. Yikes!!) Her hubby taught me to drive ( My whole family is thankful for that one!)
She's a pretty great sister and though our personalities are pretty different, we have something in common........our love of Twilight. Yes, they are silly and totally unrealistic movies; but we love them and are not ashamed of it. We've never been able to see a Twilight movie because she lives 3 states away. Not this time, though. How fitting that for the final installment of Twilight, we were able to go see it together. And, let me say, it did not disappoint. Team Edward!!
Days 27 and 28: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 27: Hallmark Christmas Movies
The time for holiday movies have begun! I love watching every one of them. Yes, I am a sucker for a movie that wraps up neatly within its 2 hour time limit. But really, I like to cozy up by myself, while the kids are napping and get lost in a made for T.V. holiday movie.
Day 28: Little Boys Sitting on Heater Vents
OMG! He's just the cutest thing. Today was a very rainy day and we spent the morning in our PJs while sister was at school, watching cartoons. It was that kind of day.
The time for holiday movies have begun! I love watching every one of them. Yes, I am a sucker for a movie that wraps up neatly within its 2 hour time limit. But really, I like to cozy up by myself, while the kids are napping and get lost in a made for T.V. holiday movie.
Day 28: Little Boys Sitting on Heater Vents
Monday, November 26, 2012
The Thanksgiving That Never Was
Let me clarify something right away. We did have Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving.
This sad little tale of my holiday weekend gone horribly wrong starts a couple of days before. And after I write this post my pity party must end. It just has to. I'm tired of feeling blue.
As I sit here typing, I'm on day 3 of a nasty cough and sore throat. Boo hoo for me.
A week ago, Little H threw up and had one "soupy" diaper. (Sorry for the visual.) He was totally fine after that. Two days later, my sweet Lily woke around 5 a.m. throwing up. She threw up about every half hour. Poor thing!! I had to spend the day with her in bed. There was no way around it. I was fully immersed in the germs; but my little girl was in bad shape. She needed her Momma.
Well, the flu hit the Bauer house in full force. We all had some version of it, Andy coming down with it Saturday morning and getting the worst of it. By Saturday, I was taking care of Andy but I started to have this scratchy little cough. Here I am, 3 days later, and if I'm very still I tend not to cough.
So we've had the worst week. We've been stuck inside with 2 little kids feeling like crap. It's been hard; but the sad part is the timing.
The day Lily came down with the flu, my sister flew in from Colorado. I've seen her ONCE in the past week. Fortunately she's here for another week and a half. But wait, it gets even sadder!
Finally, I was going to host a real Thanksgiving dinner at MY house. The girl that was always asked to bring rolls and drink (the only food items that didn't actually have to be cooked) was getting to host Thanksgiving. My parents, Andy's parent, and both our sisters would celebrate with us and the kids. How festive, how cozy, how happy.
Because Lily had been so sick, my family was wary of coming over to our house and catching the flu. We tried to reschedule with everyone, but the way it worked out left us having to do 2 dinners. We would do Thanksgiving with my parents and sister on Sunday and since my house had been fully contaminated, Andy's parents offered to let us go over there on Thursday.
Andy's parents braved the possibility of getting sick and had us over anyway. Love them! But.............they all came down with flu on Saturday!! I'm so thankful for them because otherwise we would have been alone on Thanksgiving. That's too sad to even think about.
My dream of hosting Thanksgiving hadn't quite been dashed, though. I still had Sunday. My family was coming over to my house. That was plan B. By Sunday though, Andy still hadn't emerged from the his flu induced coma and I was working on hacking up one of my lungs. So what is Plan C? Plan C was my sweet family bringing us leftovers.
So my dream of hosting the big dinner had officially been dashed and I've had zero leftovers. I've had no appetite to eat and I think the sight of stuffing and turkey just reminds me of the the Thanksgiving that never was. I told you I'm having a pity party!!
And yet, I'm not done. There was more disappointment to come. Every year, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, we go the tree farm with friends to cut down our Christmas tree. Last year, Andy had to work so we couldn't go with our friends. We went on another day with just our family of four. We still had a nice time even though it wasn't quite the same. This year, Andy took the day off so we wouldn't miss it again. Seeing as he had the shakes and a fever, we knew we couldn't go. Plan B was to go tomorrow with the fam and cut down our tree. It looks like that won't be happening either.
We are............this is hard for me to say...........give me a minute............going to a tree lot! There. I said it! I'm so sad. I know it's not the worst thing in the world. It's just not what we do. I could dwell on this a little longer; but it will only make me delve deeper into my pit of despair.
Talk about things not going your way. I suppose I could handle all this a little better if I didn't feel so crappy. You know how when you are sick and emotional it just makes everything seem worse? I'm now convinced that there is a black cloud hanging over my future Christmas holiday. That's silly, I know. I'm just feeling very Eeyoreish.
Honestly, trying to think of things to be thankful for has been really hard.
I have this really cute banner I made on my Cricut for Thanksgiving. It simply says, 'Be Thankful'. It keeps staring at me and reminding me that "In everything, give thanks." Whether I want to or not. Because no matter what my circumstances are or how I'm feeling, God is good. All the time. So here goes:
Day 21: Sweet Potatoes. My mom sent some over since I missed them at dinner. They are my favorite part of dinner.
Day 22: That we weren't alone on Thanksgiving. We got to spend it with family, even though we made them terribly ill:(
Day 23: Cyber Monday because I do not do Black Friday.
Day 24: Through all of the illness, Henry has been A OK. I am truly thankful for his health. He's a strong little guy.
Day 25: Christmas music. It lifts the spirit.
Day 26: My kids at dinner tonight. They are so stinkin' cute!
Hopefully, I've got this all out of my system. If anyone took the time to read the whole post, thanks. Maybe you can relate to having a really bad day, week, month or maybe even year! Here's to a better week, getting better, some actual sister time, and looking for things to be thankful for.
This sad little tale of my holiday weekend gone horribly wrong starts a couple of days before. And after I write this post my pity party must end. It just has to. I'm tired of feeling blue.
As I sit here typing, I'm on day 3 of a nasty cough and sore throat. Boo hoo for me.
A week ago, Little H threw up and had one "soupy" diaper. (Sorry for the visual.) He was totally fine after that. Two days later, my sweet Lily woke around 5 a.m. throwing up. She threw up about every half hour. Poor thing!! I had to spend the day with her in bed. There was no way around it. I was fully immersed in the germs; but my little girl was in bad shape. She needed her Momma.
Well, the flu hit the Bauer house in full force. We all had some version of it, Andy coming down with it Saturday morning and getting the worst of it. By Saturday, I was taking care of Andy but I started to have this scratchy little cough. Here I am, 3 days later, and if I'm very still I tend not to cough.
So we've had the worst week. We've been stuck inside with 2 little kids feeling like crap. It's been hard; but the sad part is the timing.
The day Lily came down with the flu, my sister flew in from Colorado. I've seen her ONCE in the past week. Fortunately she's here for another week and a half. But wait, it gets even sadder!
Finally, I was going to host a real Thanksgiving dinner at MY house. The girl that was always asked to bring rolls and drink (the only food items that didn't actually have to be cooked) was getting to host Thanksgiving. My parents, Andy's parent, and both our sisters would celebrate with us and the kids. How festive, how cozy, how happy.
Because Lily had been so sick, my family was wary of coming over to our house and catching the flu. We tried to reschedule with everyone, but the way it worked out left us having to do 2 dinners. We would do Thanksgiving with my parents and sister on Sunday and since my house had been fully contaminated, Andy's parents offered to let us go over there on Thursday.
Andy's parents braved the possibility of getting sick and had us over anyway. Love them! But.............they all came down with flu on Saturday!! I'm so thankful for them because otherwise we would have been alone on Thanksgiving. That's too sad to even think about.
My dream of hosting Thanksgiving hadn't quite been dashed, though. I still had Sunday. My family was coming over to my house. That was plan B. By Sunday though, Andy still hadn't emerged from the his flu induced coma and I was working on hacking up one of my lungs. So what is Plan C? Plan C was my sweet family bringing us leftovers.
So my dream of hosting the big dinner had officially been dashed and I've had zero leftovers. I've had no appetite to eat and I think the sight of stuffing and turkey just reminds me of the the Thanksgiving that never was. I told you I'm having a pity party!!
And yet, I'm not done. There was more disappointment to come. Every year, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, we go the tree farm with friends to cut down our Christmas tree. Last year, Andy had to work so we couldn't go with our friends. We went on another day with just our family of four. We still had a nice time even though it wasn't quite the same. This year, Andy took the day off so we wouldn't miss it again. Seeing as he had the shakes and a fever, we knew we couldn't go. Plan B was to go tomorrow with the fam and cut down our tree. It looks like that won't be happening either.
We are............this is hard for me to say...........give me a minute............going to a tree lot! There. I said it! I'm so sad. I know it's not the worst thing in the world. It's just not what we do. I could dwell on this a little longer; but it will only make me delve deeper into my pit of despair.
Talk about things not going your way. I suppose I could handle all this a little better if I didn't feel so crappy. You know how when you are sick and emotional it just makes everything seem worse? I'm now convinced that there is a black cloud hanging over my future Christmas holiday. That's silly, I know. I'm just feeling very Eeyoreish.
Honestly, trying to think of things to be thankful for has been really hard.
I have this really cute banner I made on my Cricut for Thanksgiving. It simply says, 'Be Thankful'. It keeps staring at me and reminding me that "In everything, give thanks." Whether I want to or not. Because no matter what my circumstances are or how I'm feeling, God is good. All the time. So here goes:
Day 21: Sweet Potatoes. My mom sent some over since I missed them at dinner. They are my favorite part of dinner.
Day 22: That we weren't alone on Thanksgiving. We got to spend it with family, even though we made them terribly ill:(
Day 23: Cyber Monday because I do not do Black Friday.
Day 24: Through all of the illness, Henry has been A OK. I am truly thankful for his health. He's a strong little guy.
Day 25: Christmas music. It lifts the spirit.
Day 26: My kids at dinner tonight. They are so stinkin' cute!
Hopefully, I've got this all out of my system. If anyone took the time to read the whole post, thanks. Maybe you can relate to having a really bad day, week, month or maybe even year! Here's to a better week, getting better, some actual sister time, and looking for things to be thankful for.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Food on the Table: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 19: Food on the Table
After dropping off Lil at school this morning, I headed out and began my strategically planned Thanksgiving dinner shopping outing. Safeway to buy drinks (because they were on sale) and apples (because I needed the biggest variety to choose from for my pie), then Target for the main part of my shopping and finally off to Costco (because where else can you buy 20 lbs of potatoes for $4.59?)
Does anyone need a potato or two?
I had my list and a certain amount of time to get it done before having to pick up Lily from school. In the midst of my checking off lists and price comparing, I looked down at my cart full of food. I had everything I needed and them some to help make a huge Thanksgiving meal.
There are times when I feel like I have to go without. We are on one income and have to make sacrifices. But the truth is, we are so very rich. We have a warm home, clothes on our backs, the Red Menace to drive in, a pantry full of food. Compared to so many I live like a queen.
Thank you Lord, for the food I put in my mouth each day, for never having to go without the medicine I need to heal sickness, for always having clothes to wear, for never having to go without shoes, for having a roof over my head and a comfortable bed to sleep in at night. Please convict me and reprimand me when I feel like I have to go without or feel sorry for myself when I see others that have more than me. Give me a heart to help those who really are in need.
Amen.
After dropping off Lil at school this morning, I headed out and began my strategically planned Thanksgiving dinner shopping outing. Safeway to buy drinks (because they were on sale) and apples (because I needed the biggest variety to choose from for my pie), then Target for the main part of my shopping and finally off to Costco (because where else can you buy 20 lbs of potatoes for $4.59?)
Does anyone need a potato or two?
I had my list and a certain amount of time to get it done before having to pick up Lily from school. In the midst of my checking off lists and price comparing, I looked down at my cart full of food. I had everything I needed and them some to help make a huge Thanksgiving meal.
There are times when I feel like I have to go without. We are on one income and have to make sacrifices. But the truth is, we are so very rich. We have a warm home, clothes on our backs, the Red Menace to drive in, a pantry full of food. Compared to so many I live like a queen.
Thank you Lord, for the food I put in my mouth each day, for never having to go without the medicine I need to heal sickness, for always having clothes to wear, for never having to go without shoes, for having a roof over my head and a comfortable bed to sleep in at night. Please convict me and reprimand me when I feel like I have to go without or feel sorry for myself when I see others that have more than me. Give me a heart to help those who really are in need.
Amen.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Church Family: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 18: My Church Family
12 years ago I got married to the Pastor's son. Are you singing "Son of a Preacher Man" right now? I am.
Being new to the church, there were many people I didn't know. Often someone would come up and talk to me or say hi in passing. I'd make small talk and nod and as soon as they walked away I would lean over to Andy and whisper, "Who was that?"
As these 12 years have seemingly slipped by, those nameless faces have truly become my church family. Many of those people have become close friends, some are like my extended family. They've prayed for my family, have showed they care and are interested in my life, they've loved my kids and have helped Andy and I teach them about God.
And what is so cool is that this family grows! While some sadly move away or go to another church, new brothers and sisters in the Lord join. There are new friends to be made, new relationships to form.
So on this Sunday I'm so very thankful for my family at SRBC.
12 years ago I got married to the Pastor's son. Are you singing "Son of a Preacher Man" right now? I am.
Being new to the church, there were many people I didn't know. Often someone would come up and talk to me or say hi in passing. I'd make small talk and nod and as soon as they walked away I would lean over to Andy and whisper, "Who was that?"
As these 12 years have seemingly slipped by, those nameless faces have truly become my church family. Many of those people have become close friends, some are like my extended family. They've prayed for my family, have showed they care and are interested in my life, they've loved my kids and have helped Andy and I teach them about God.
And what is so cool is that this family grows! While some sadly move away or go to another church, new brothers and sisters in the Lord join. There are new friends to be made, new relationships to form.
So on this Sunday I'm so very thankful for my family at SRBC.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
A Little Catch-Up
30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 15, 16, 17
Day 15: A Nice Warm Cozy House on a Rainy Day
Day 16: The Red Menace
The Red Menace is what Andy has named our newly purchased van. I'm thankful for the seat warmers that keep my tushy warm on cold mornings, the sliding doors that open automatically to make getting the kids in and out easier, and the feeling that I'm driving in a car that will keep my family safe.
Day 17: Iphones, Facetime, Facebook, Email
Today with all our gadgets it's so easy to keep in touch (and actually see them!) with family and friends who live far away.
Day 15: A Nice Warm Cozy House on a Rainy Day
Day 16: The Red Menace
The Red Menace is what Andy has named our newly purchased van. I'm thankful for the seat warmers that keep my tushy warm on cold mornings, the sliding doors that open automatically to make getting the kids in and out easier, and the feeling that I'm driving in a car that will keep my family safe.
Day 17: Iphones, Facetime, Facebook, Email
Today with all our gadgets it's so easy to keep in touch (and actually see them!) with family and friends who live far away.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
What I'm Loving Wednesday: Holiday Movies
Day 14: Holiday Movies: 30 Days of Thankfulness
I thought I would combine my What I'm Loving Wednesday and my Thankfulness posts.
I'm thankful for our tradition of watching holiday movies, starting at Thanksgiving time with Planes, Trains and Automobiles, because it brings our family together. We create memories because we are spending time together. It's not just with little H, Lil, Andy and I. We watch these movies with family and friends. It's something we look forward to every year. I hope it's a tradition our kids will carry on.
So here's what I'm loving on this fine fall Wednesday......My favorite Holiday Movies:
1.)Planes, Trains and Automobiles- which we always watch at Thanksgiving, which is always hilarious even though we have the movie memorized. Who doesn't love Steve Martin? and John Candy? (RIP)
2.)Miracle on 34th Street- I like the old and new version.
3.)Elf- no explanation needed for this one. "You smell like beef and cheese!"
4.)Charlie Brown Christmas-I would always show this one to my students. Now, I show it to Lily.
5.)It's A Wonderful Life- This is such a close second to my all time favorite. I always cry during this one.
6.)White Christmas-Best. Christmas. Movie. Ever. Bing was a shorty; but boy, could he croon. If you haven't watched the "Mandy" dance number and ached with laughter, you haven't paid close enough attention. Watch it again. Trust me.
There are other movies I like to watch during the holidays. These are my must haves, though. And in one short week, the holiday movie viewing will begin.
So excited.
So break out the cozy socks, popcorn, hot chocolate and snuggie. The holidays are here!
I thought I would combine my What I'm Loving Wednesday and my Thankfulness posts.
I'm thankful for our tradition of watching holiday movies, starting at Thanksgiving time with Planes, Trains and Automobiles, because it brings our family together. We create memories because we are spending time together. It's not just with little H, Lil, Andy and I. We watch these movies with family and friends. It's something we look forward to every year. I hope it's a tradition our kids will carry on.
So here's what I'm loving on this fine fall Wednesday......My favorite Holiday Movies:
1.)Planes, Trains and Automobiles- which we always watch at Thanksgiving, which is always hilarious even though we have the movie memorized. Who doesn't love Steve Martin? and John Candy? (RIP)
2.)Miracle on 34th Street- I like the old and new version.
6.)White Christmas-Best. Christmas. Movie. Ever. Bing was a shorty; but boy, could he croon. If you haven't watched the "Mandy" dance number and ached with laughter, you haven't paid close enough attention. Watch it again. Trust me.
So excited.
So break out the cozy socks, popcorn, hot chocolate and snuggie. The holidays are here!
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Laughter: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 13: Laughter
We laugh a lot in our house. I'm so thankful for that. How can you not laugh with two crazy adorable kids? The husband is pretty funny, too.
When Lily gets going, she cannot stop laughing! Sometimes she goes overboard and gets too silly. Some cool down time in her room usually does the trick. Hearing her belly laughs is such a precious sound.
Today, Lily was making Henry laugh. I've never heard him laugh so hard. It was the cutest thing ever. Yes. Ever! Hearing my kids laugh together was video worthy. Of course, they quit doing it once I hit record.
Recently we were hanging out with friends and laughing a lot. I got one of my laugh headaches. Those are the only kind of headaches I like.
This is one of my favorite candid pictures of all time. My sister is on the far right and my niece in the middle. They were visiting from Colorado for Thanksgiving the year I was pregnant with Lily. I have no recollection of what we were laughing about; but I remember that day and having so much fun with these girls, as I always do. Love this picture.
Laughter can make a bad day turn into a faint memory. It can come in the midst of sadness and help you cope with hard times. It turns your home into a happy, inviting place.
So, I'll leave you with what I tell my husband when he laughs at my expense, "Laugh it up, Chuckles!"
And I hope you do.
We laugh a lot in our house. I'm so thankful for that. How can you not laugh with two crazy adorable kids? The husband is pretty funny, too.
When Lily gets going, she cannot stop laughing! Sometimes she goes overboard and gets too silly. Some cool down time in her room usually does the trick. Hearing her belly laughs is such a precious sound.
Today, Lily was making Henry laugh. I've never heard him laugh so hard. It was the cutest thing ever. Yes. Ever! Hearing my kids laugh together was video worthy. Of course, they quit doing it once I hit record.
Recently we were hanging out with friends and laughing a lot. I got one of my laugh headaches. Those are the only kind of headaches I like.
This is one of my favorite candid pictures of all time. My sister is on the far right and my niece in the middle. They were visiting from Colorado for Thanksgiving the year I was pregnant with Lily. I have no recollection of what we were laughing about; but I remember that day and having so much fun with these girls, as I always do. Love this picture.
So, I'll leave you with what I tell my husband when he laughs at my expense, "Laugh it up, Chuckles!"
And I hope you do.
Our House: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 12: Our House
In the past week, we've had 3 birthday celebrations for Andy. Lucky guy! We've been able to host these fun times with family and friends because we live in a bigger house now. In the past, it was either really cramped or we would party at his parent's house.
Our old house was just so small.
We finally were able to rent out our cozy little abode and rent our 3 bedroom rancher. It's by no means a mansion; but to me it's a palace. We prayed for a 3 bedroom house, in our same neighborhood with a yard our kids could play in where I could see them from inside the house. We got just that and it's been such a blessing to have so much more room, yet have it be cozy. Just the right size for us.
Every day I thank God for answering a prayer that we had for so long.
In the past week, we've had 3 birthday celebrations for Andy. Lucky guy! We've been able to host these fun times with family and friends because we live in a bigger house now. In the past, it was either really cramped or we would party at his parent's house.
Our old house was just so small.
We finally were able to rent out our cozy little abode and rent our 3 bedroom rancher. It's by no means a mansion; but to me it's a palace. We prayed for a 3 bedroom house, in our same neighborhood with a yard our kids could play in where I could see them from inside the house. We got just that and it's been such a blessing to have so much more room, yet have it be cozy. Just the right size for us.
Every day I thank God for answering a prayer that we had for so long.
Veterans: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 11: Veterans
I am so thankful for our veterans. I am thankful for a sacrifice I cannot even begin to imagine. I am thankful for the country I live in, despite all of its problems, that I would not have if it weren't for the sacrifice of our veterans.
I am thankful for my dad, who gave up his youth with its innocent and care free days, to defend our freedom, and do what our country asked of him. I am proud to have a grandfather and grandfather in law who faithfully served their countries.We cannot even begin to fathom the hardships they endured. It's a debt we can never repay.
I am so thankful for our veterans. I am thankful for a sacrifice I cannot even begin to imagine. I am thankful for the country I live in, despite all of its problems, that I would not have if it weren't for the sacrifice of our veterans.
I am thankful for my dad, who gave up his youth with its innocent and care free days, to defend our freedom, and do what our country asked of him. I am proud to have a grandfather and grandfather in law who faithfully served their countries.We cannot even begin to fathom the hardships they endured. It's a debt we can never repay.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Medicine and Rest: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Days 9 & 10: Medicine and Rest
I didn't post yesterday because I was sick! I've had a horrible cold all week which culminated into a horrible, headachy cough. I felt like pooh yesterday.
Besides a little headache, stuffy nose and occasional cough, I feel way better today.
After being sick for several days, you really do appreciate that first day where you start to feel better. If it weren't for the medicine and the total day of rest in bed I got yesterday (thanks to my man), I still think I'd be in bad shape. So that's why these two days really go together.
I am so thankful for the medicine we have that is so readily available to us. I'm so thankful for the migraine medicine I found years ago to keep my migraines to a minimum. I'm also so thankful for the migraine medicine that I do take for those bad headaches that really zaps them about 90% of the time.
God is good. I could be a way more miserable person right now without them.
I'm so thankful that God gives us the rest we need when we really need it.
I didn't post yesterday because I was sick! I've had a horrible cold all week which culminated into a horrible, headachy cough. I felt like pooh yesterday.
Besides a little headache, stuffy nose and occasional cough, I feel way better today.
After being sick for several days, you really do appreciate that first day where you start to feel better. If it weren't for the medicine and the total day of rest in bed I got yesterday (thanks to my man), I still think I'd be in bad shape. So that's why these two days really go together.
I am so thankful for the medicine we have that is so readily available to us. I'm so thankful for the migraine medicine I found years ago to keep my migraines to a minimum. I'm also so thankful for the migraine medicine that I do take for those bad headaches that really zaps them about 90% of the time.
God is good. I could be a way more miserable person right now without them.
I'm so thankful that God gives us the rest we need when we really need it.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
A Good Book: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 8: A Good Book.
Ok, as a kid, my nose was always in a book. Always.
That's the reason, I thought, I never knew how to get anywhere when I started driving. I was always reading when I was in the car and so I never paid attention to where we were going or how we got there. Later, I found out that I've inherited a horrible sense of direction. It runs in my family.
I loved to read as a kid and well into my 20's. I loved to get lost in the characters and imagine myself in a different time period.
Then came teaching and kids. I still did a lot of reading; but a much of it was teaching books, books on classroom organization (which I love), and the like. I also read a lot of children's book, which is still a passion of mine.
But books for me. Books for my pure personal enjoyment. Books that opened my eyes to different cultures and to lives so different from my own, have been off my reading list for years.
And then my friend Rachel and I decided to start a book club. Best. Idea. Ever.
I've been reading Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese. I will try to do a book review when I'm finished. The book is a little heavy but I've enjoyed it. I forgot how reading, just for pleasure and not necessity, is so important to feed one's soul.
I am thankful for a good book and many more good books to come.
Ok, as a kid, my nose was always in a book. Always.
That's the reason, I thought, I never knew how to get anywhere when I started driving. I was always reading when I was in the car and so I never paid attention to where we were going or how we got there. Later, I found out that I've inherited a horrible sense of direction. It runs in my family.
I loved to read as a kid and well into my 20's. I loved to get lost in the characters and imagine myself in a different time period.
Then came teaching and kids. I still did a lot of reading; but a much of it was teaching books, books on classroom organization (which I love), and the like. I also read a lot of children's book, which is still a passion of mine.
But books for me. Books for my pure personal enjoyment. Books that opened my eyes to different cultures and to lives so different from my own, have been off my reading list for years.
And then my friend Rachel and I decided to start a book club. Best. Idea. Ever.
I've been reading Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese. I will try to do a book review when I'm finished. The book is a little heavy but I've enjoyed it. I forgot how reading, just for pleasure and not necessity, is so important to feed one's soul.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
God's Sovereignty: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 7: God's Sovereignty
So the person I voted for President did not win.
I really thought Romney would win.
I just don't get it.
I do not talk politics, by any means. A lot of it just goes over my head. I talk to my dad about politics because that is what my dad talks about most of the time! I want to understand more; but I don't put the time into reading about it, discussing it, etc., to really have an intellectual conversation about it.
It's pretty simple for me.
I will not vote for someone who does not believe in the sanctity of life or in the true definition of marriage. Plain and Simple.
I know there are so many more issues than those two that are so very important. God is so clear, though, about when life begins and how He views homosexuality. I'm not going to preach a sermon here; but I am afraid for our country and how there is such a disregard for what God regards as precious.
At the of the day, every day, it doesn't matter who has the title. God is sovereign and He knows what will happen before it happens. As His child I do not need to fear man. Instead, I will pray. I will pray for eyes to be open to His truth. I will pray that I will be bold for Christ and try to point others to the Truth.
I'm thankful that my happiness and my future does not depend on my circumstances or the actions of others. God is sovereign and I rest in that.
So the person I voted for President did not win.
I really thought Romney would win.
I just don't get it.
I do not talk politics, by any means. A lot of it just goes over my head. I talk to my dad about politics because that is what my dad talks about most of the time! I want to understand more; but I don't put the time into reading about it, discussing it, etc., to really have an intellectual conversation about it.
It's pretty simple for me.
I will not vote for someone who does not believe in the sanctity of life or in the true definition of marriage. Plain and Simple.
I know there are so many more issues than those two that are so very important. God is so clear, though, about when life begins and how He views homosexuality. I'm not going to preach a sermon here; but I am afraid for our country and how there is such a disregard for what God regards as precious.
At the of the day, every day, it doesn't matter who has the title. God is sovereign and He knows what will happen before it happens. As His child I do not need to fear man. Instead, I will pray. I will pray for eyes to be open to His truth. I will pray that I will be bold for Christ and try to point others to the Truth.
I'm thankful that my happiness and my future does not depend on my circumstances or the actions of others. God is sovereign and I rest in that.
A Quiet Day: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Day 6: A Quiet Day
It's not often where I get a day, where I have no where to go and nothing that I HAVE to do.
How did this phenomenon occur? Well, there is nothing like a good head cold given to you by your children to keep you indoors.
So even though I've been sick, I was able to stay home all day and just do quiet things around the house, like read and cut coupons. I know, I'm crazy fun, right??
Andy took Lily to gymnastics and kept things around the house going so I could rest. It was actually a nice day and one I don't often get. I'm thankful for my quiet day.
It's not often where I get a day, where I have no where to go and nothing that I HAVE to do.
How did this phenomenon occur? Well, there is nothing like a good head cold given to you by your children to keep you indoors.
So even though I've been sick, I was able to stay home all day and just do quiet things around the house, like read and cut coupons. I know, I'm crazy fun, right??
Andy took Lily to gymnastics and kept things around the house going so I could rest. It was actually a nice day and one I don't often get. I'm thankful for my quiet day.
Andrew: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Actually, I purposefully did not write on day 5 because we were busy with birthday business that day. I wanted to spend time with Andy and the family, not at the computer.
So today (and every day, in fact) I'm thankful for my sweet Andy. The list is long as to why I'm thankful for him; but two things jumped to my mind immediately.
Number One: He's an awesome dad.
Andy is very hands on. He's knows his way around a dirty diaper, let me tell you. He interacts with the kids, reads to them, really plays with them, explains things to Lily, and teaches them about God. He's calm and doesn't react. Just seeing how he loves L and little H, makes me love him even more.
Number Two: He's so funny.
We laugh a lot. Andy has a very quick wit and he's very silly. We have a lot of inside jokes just between the two of us. I'm afraid there's been many a church service (where we are supposed to be listening, pondering, and being quiet) where we were giggling under our breath like two silly school girls.
And he thinks I'm funny. So, when the person who floats your boat thinks that you are the bees knees too!!! Well that's pretty darn remarkable.
I love you Andrew Ryan Bauer!
Most of these pictures are older ones; but they are my all time favorites.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Cold Toes: 30 Days of Thankfulness
It's Day 4 of my 30 Days of Thankfulness.
I am so thankful for those cold little toes that cozied up to me in the green recliner this morning. I love those toes and how the little girl they belong to loves to cuddle with me. It's a morning ritual, along with waffles and cartoons.
Most of all, I'm just thankful that you like to be with me because I love to be with you.
I am so thankful for those cold little toes that cozied up to me in the green recliner this morning. I love those toes and how the little girl they belong to loves to cuddle with me. It's a morning ritual, along with waffles and cartoons.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
30 Days of Thankfulness: Family
I'm already behind in my daily Thankfulness posts. That figures.
As I mentioned in my previous post, we had family over today. We had such a nice time and laughed a lot.
I don't see my nephew very often and we always have more fun when Steve is around. He turned 30, so the day was kind of his day even though we were celebrating other birthdays. (Yes, I have a 30 year old nephew. Hard to believe, right?)
Families don't always agree and can get on each others nerves from time to time. But a family that can laugh together and take the time and effort to celebrate special moments in one anther's lives is a special gift. One I am very thankful for.
As I mentioned in my previous post, we had family over today. We had such a nice time and laughed a lot.
I don't see my nephew very often and we always have more fun when Steve is around. He turned 30, so the day was kind of his day even though we were celebrating other birthdays. (Yes, I have a 30 year old nephew. Hard to believe, right?)
Families don't always agree and can get on each others nerves from time to time. But a family that can laugh together and take the time and effort to celebrate special moments in one anther's lives is a special gift. One I am very thankful for.
Patience: 30 Days of Thankfulness
Now before you pat me on the back and say, "Good job on exercising patience, Jen!", I'm not talking about me. Heavens No! I NEED more patience, in a big way, like yesterday!
I'm talking about the patience of others with me.
Long story short. I have my sister, brother-in-law, nephew, brother-in-law's mother and my parents coming over tomorrow for lunch. It's my bro's, nephew and dear husband's birthday celebration. They all have birthdays within 2 weeks of eachother.
I'm hosting, cooking (not all the cooking...Phew!), entertaining the crowd, etc. So needless to say, I had a lot on my mind and about an hour and half to grocery shop today.
It all started with a pocket dial to the Sheriff's Department.
What the....?
Well, as most of you know, hubby works for the S.D., hence why I would have that number on speed dial in my phone. How I called, who knows? He was at home with the kids. So after I basically called 911 for no reason, the S.D. called me back. I let them know "I was okay." Yikes..........embarrassing.
Next, I accidentally took someone else's cart and proceeded to the checkout.
And, of course, I rounded out the whole shopping experience by unloading over $125 worth of groceries onto the 15 item and under conveyor belt. Oops!
The check-out lady could have been all snarly and put out. Instead she was kind and assured me I wasn't the first person to make that mistake that day. I felt like such a doof but by the time she handed me my receipt, she was wishing me a happy dinner with my family. How sweet was that?
As I drove out of the parking lot, I couldn't help but think of all the times I've bared my teeth and have showed zero patience for lesser offenses. And usually toward people that really deserve an extra helping of patience (husband, kids !).
So today (or yesterday, as I'm posting this a day late), I'm so very thankful for patience and am asking the Lord to help me show more patience towards others.
I'm talking about the patience of others with me.
Long story short. I have my sister, brother-in-law, nephew, brother-in-law's mother and my parents coming over tomorrow for lunch. It's my bro's, nephew and dear husband's birthday celebration. They all have birthdays within 2 weeks of eachother.
I'm hosting, cooking (not all the cooking...Phew!), entertaining the crowd, etc. So needless to say, I had a lot on my mind and about an hour and half to grocery shop today.
It all started with a pocket dial to the Sheriff's Department.
What the....?
Well, as most of you know, hubby works for the S.D., hence why I would have that number on speed dial in my phone. How I called, who knows? He was at home with the kids. So after I basically called 911 for no reason, the S.D. called me back. I let them know "I was okay." Yikes..........embarrassing.
Next, I accidentally took someone else's cart and proceeded to the checkout.
And, of course, I rounded out the whole shopping experience by unloading over $125 worth of groceries onto the 15 item and under conveyor belt. Oops!
The check-out lady could have been all snarly and put out. Instead she was kind and assured me I wasn't the first person to make that mistake that day. I felt like such a doof but by the time she handed me my receipt, she was wishing me a happy dinner with my family. How sweet was that?
As I drove out of the parking lot, I couldn't help but think of all the times I've bared my teeth and have showed zero patience for lesser offenses. And usually toward people that really deserve an extra helping of patience (husband, kids !).
So today (or yesterday, as I'm posting this a day late), I'm so very thankful for patience and am asking the Lord to help me show more patience towards others.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
He Called Me Mama
It's November. Where did the year go? The shelves were lined with Christmas "stuff" when I popped into CVS this afternoon. Before we know it, we'll be watching White Christmas and driving around town looking at Christmas lights.
I love the Thanksgiving season, though, and I don't want it to zip by without really stopping to enjoy all the wonderful things of November.
Of course, Thanksgiving makes us stop and focus on all the good things God has given us.
My hope is to post something I'm thankful for each day in November. Realistically, with 2 kids and a busy schedule, if that actually happens I'll be pleasantly shocked. I will have posted 30 things I am thankful for by the end of the month, though.
It's actually so cool that today is the day that Little H followed me into the kitchen and said to me, "Mama!" Clear as day. Not just a frustrated string of "Mamamamammama.....because I'm upset or want something."
"Mama."
Are you tearing up? I'm in tears.
He did it a couple more times; but never when I tried to get him to do it, of course.
Thank you, God, for my son. For my happy, curious, energetic, short-tempered, hazel eyed, cuddly boy. I feel so blessed to be his Mama.
I love the Thanksgiving season, though, and I don't want it to zip by without really stopping to enjoy all the wonderful things of November.
Of course, Thanksgiving makes us stop and focus on all the good things God has given us.
My hope is to post something I'm thankful for each day in November. Realistically, with 2 kids and a busy schedule, if that actually happens I'll be pleasantly shocked. I will have posted 30 things I am thankful for by the end of the month, though.
It's actually so cool that today is the day that Little H followed me into the kitchen and said to me, "Mama!" Clear as day. Not just a frustrated string of "Mamamamammama.....because I'm upset or want something."
"Mama."
Are you tearing up? I'm in tears.
He did it a couple more times; but never when I tried to get him to do it, of course.
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