Check!

*This is a post I started a few weeks ago and just finished. :)

So, my grandparents came into town last night. Since my Grampa isn't one to sit around, he volunteered himself (and my brother Nathan) to come over and work on projects around here all afternoon. Oh, my goodness. I cannot imagine how long it would have taken us to get all these things done. In addition, (while he was replacing light bulbs in the Jetta) he noticed the oil was very low, almost empty. Who knows what sort of car catastrophe we just avoided?

I feel like a miracle just happened in our lives. God answered our prayers and kept us safe and cared for, in ways we didn't expect.

Maybe I see it this way because of something I read in my Bible time this week.
In Deuteronomy 29, Moses is talking to the Israelites about their journey to the promised land.

"Your eyes have seen all that the Lord did in Egypt to Pharoah, to all his officials and to all his land. With your own eyes you saw those great trials, those miraculous signs and great wonders. But to this day the Lord has not given you a mind that understands or eyes that see or ears that hear. During the forty years that I led you through the desert, your clothes did not wear out, nor did the sandals on your feet. You ate no bread and drank no wine or other fermented drink. I did this so that you might know that I am the Lord your God."

They had just lived through some of the greatest miracles of all time, and they didn't even see them! You'd think at some point they would notice these things. But, how often do I go through life and not see the blessings all around me?

I have become convinced that the only way to survive good times in our lives is to be thankful people. By that I mean, when things are good, we tend to start to take the credit. I know I can get prideful and feel that I have had something to do with the good things in my life. It's easy to pull away from God until I "need" Him again. At that point, I crash and burn and start the process again. :) But, what if we could remain dependent on God, and thankful even through the good times? To surrender to God not only the things we can't control, but even the things we think we can! Talk about living God's will for our lives!

We've all heard the "attitude of gratitude" pithy sayings. I hate those. But, I'm talking about seeing everything in my life as a blessing. The turquoise Jeep with the cracked windshield we bought from my sister and her husband because we couldn't afford anything else? Well, it got us safely to church and back, down our little dirt road in 6 or 7 inches of snow today. This rather run-down house in the woods that we "happened across"? I feel like a queen in a castle with the snow outside, the candles burning, and a fresh carrot cake baking in the oven. My little girls are a ton of work, but today both of them said "I love you" to me, without being prompted, for the first time. Yes I know, Audrey is copying Hannah, but I don't care. Hannah saying that to me and then laying her head on my shoulder was the best gift I've had in years.

As easy as it is to be discontent (I know LOTS of discontent people, and struggle with it myself), we all need to be praying for "a mind that understands or eyes that see or ears that hear" the miracles that God is working in our lives. God answers prayers like that. As I have begun to pray this, I feel more content than I have in years.

Maybe as recently as a few months ago, I always felt that God was out to get me somehow. Maybe He was waiting to make my life really hard because it was "good for me." I doubted His heart toward me - doubted that He really wanted the best for me. The thing is, He says He wants the best for me, that He has a hope and a future for me. If He says that, then I can take my wandering thoughts and emotions and set them on that truth, trusting the truth over feelings. That kind of trust allows me to be truly thankful and content, without fear of the future.

It's a process, but this is what I'm learning right now...

Christina's blog

I decided to embarrass Christina, and talk about her new blog.

She and I have been friends for almost 10 years now (can you believe that?)

We first met when she and I worked in our church office together. I was the secretary for the worship ministry and she was the secretary for the women's ministry. I remember doing WAY too much chatting in each other's offices, and sitting through incredibly boring weekly staff meetings. Then, we ended up in the same circle of friends (actually, they took me in - I was the baby of the group, by multiple years. Didn't I annoy you guys?) That's when she and her husband Chris met. Then, later on, we worked in another office together, a staffing agency. We would make trips to Chipotle for the entire office, and eat entire huge burritos just for the comfort of it (I was 20 pounds heavier that year than I am now, for a reason!). We had a habit of emailing each other back and forth (while we were both there in the office working), coming up with a "black" name to put in the subject line of each one (remember that, Shaniqua Latisha?) I don't know why we did this.

Anyway, she and Chris got married and moved to where his family business is, far away from here, and we continue to keep in touch, entirely through email. In fact, I don't think we've ever talked on the phone since they moved. Weird. Now they have two beautiful little boys who look exactly like she and Chris, and Christina has lots of hysterical stories about trying to keep up with them.

Christina and I have been through thick and thin together. Boys (men?), jobs, kids, work... We have played hard ball on occasion, but we're good at that. :) So, enjoy her new blog.

Monday Highlights

Let's see... What's going on this week?

1. I DRAGGED myself to a leadership meeting at church that I was supposed to go to yesterday. I did not want to go, at all. Nick and the girls went out to lunch with my family while I did it. But, I got some fantastic new ideas and inspiration about leading my small group. Yay for messages that are just what you need.

2. The kitty slept at the foot of our bed last night. I always had a kitty sleeping at the foot of my bed, growing up. It was fun.

3. If all goes well, we get to make a trip to Starry Sky Ranch on Wednesday. Can't wait!

4. Um, it's 3 1/2 weeks to Thanksgiving???!!!!???

5. Hannah had a gluten issue this weekend, after a helper in her childcare during choir rehearsal gave her 3 or 4 crackers. I don't think she's had that much gluten in more than a year. Wow, lots of temper tantrums and tears. I am forever grateful that we found out what the real problem was early on. I understand why parents would look for a behavioral diagnosis for kids that just really have a food allergy or something similar. For example, there seems to be some link between autism and gluten. "Autistic" kids put on a gluten free diet often improve by leaps and bounds. Makes me wonder if the gluten is the only real problem. As much as it affects Hannah, I can see how it would be very difficult for those kids to learn at the same rate as their peers. But, that was a tangent, not so much a highlight. Oh well.

What are your highlights for the week?

A year ago

One year ago, our pastor made national news when his darkest secrets were exposed to the world. We were all completely shocked, and the grief and hurt caused by his lies was intense. But that was a year ago.

Yesterday, the building was full of people worshiping and looking to God. Our new pastor, fittingly, spoke on "divorce proofing your marriage." Healing has already taken place that some churches in similar circumstances never see - even a decade later. I am so grateful for the faithfulness of the people at our church. I am so grateful for a man of God who is full of grace and love for people, to lead the church. Mostly, I am grateful for what God is doing there. There's no place I would rather be!

Pooh and Tigger

Here's the girls in their costumes.
I gave Audrey some whiskers, and Hannah insisted she needed some too. :) They had so much fun.

Meet the kitty

Here's our newest member of the family. We got him yesterday, and as yet have not decided on a name. Isn't he sweet? He's about 10 weeks.

He is very tame - he will lay on his back and let you rub his tummy. He purrs all the time. While Hannah was holding him this morning, she picked him up by his legs and he didn't even flinch. Ahem...we're working on kitty manners.





So, the girls love him and he seems to like them pretty well also. I wondered aloud if I was nuts for adding something else to take care of, and Nick said, "I'm surprised you've gone this long without a pet."

We're taking turns holding him and dangling a little fish toy. He races up and down the back of the couch to catch it.

Pumpkin Carving

Hannah actually kind of understood what we were doing this year.



















Audrey didn't care. But pumpkins are pretty cool.















This proves once and for all: I am a nerdy piano teacher. And it was fun, too.










Hannah helped get one handful of the pumpkin guts out, then she was done.

Random

We are doing NOTHING today. Happy Halloween to me. Two of the three of us are still in Pj's. It's 2pm. Thank you very much. I needed a day of rest, badly.

I do, however, have cute pictures.

Hannah and Nana - Nick's mom








Hannah and Grampa - Nick's dad
















Nick and Hannah and the first snow. I am a wimp and I took these through the window. Honestly, we live in Colorado and none of us own good snow gear. We probably need to change that soon.












No, I cannot smile bigger than this. Like my new haircut?

Monday Highlights

Good morning!

Here's what's going on in our world.

1. Halloween this week. The girls are going to be Pooh and Tigger, and we're taking them to "Hallelujah Night" at church. You've never seen anything like this. Whole rooms full of bouncy castles and candy and games. It's a huge community outreach, it's mass chaos, and it's a ton of fun. Plus, we almost always get snow on October 31st, and it's WARM inside! The pastors even come and dress up and it's hysterical.

(Just back from an interruption - Hannah walked in and announced, "A MESSY BI-PER!")

2. A new student this week. Whew. I think I have reached the point of no more space for students. Until School of Worship is done, anyway. That's in three weeks.

3. The Rockies lost. This actually made me sad for a minute. At least they lost to the Red Sox and not somebody lame, like the Indians.

4. I have decided that I'm going to start playing the piano every day, as part of our routine. Maybe after a couple weeks, the girls will not insist on sitting in my lap and "helping" the entire time.

5. My phone broke. The screen no longer lights up so I can't tell who's calling. However, I called AT&T this morning, and they say I can go to a store and get an "upgrade." Translation: a free phone, or a cheap phone. Very excited about this. Apparently upgrades are available every 6 months if you pay your bill on time?

6. We are painting our bathroom this week. This scares me because I have to finally make a decision about what color. I can do this. It won't look stupid. Right?

So, there ya go. A pretty low-key week for us. I'm so glad. What highlights do you have this week?

Something different

Found a link to this website this morning. These people have been learning to play and record a whole list of old songs - things that have no copyright issue involved. If you ever saw O Brother, Where Art Thou, it's the same style. Interesting to hear the kinds of things people sang about in the 1920's.

At bedtime tonight...

Nick: Hannah, tomorrow your friends are coming over to play. Won't that be fun?
Hannah: OK...hair...pretty...rubber bands.

On marriage

This post made me smile today, and I've only been married three years. :)

What a night...

Here's a story for you.

Child decides that instead of eating her very good dinner, she will go hungry.
Mother repeatedly offers child her dinner when she asks for fruit, cookies, cake, crackers and anything else she can think of.
The dinner is summarily refused.
Child goes to bed hungry, with Mother feeling somewhat guilty but justified.
Baby gets up to nurse...at 1am and at 3am.
(Baby still will not eat more than half a jar of solid food at a time.)
Child proceeds to cry mommy, mommy, mommy for about three hours starting at about 3:30am.
When half asleep Mother goes to check on her (4 or 5 times), Child asks for a hot dog.
Mother has no hot dogs, nor anything else she would like to offer at 4am.
Child eventually gives up, but not before wiping out Mother.
(Mother may or may not have covered her head with a pillow once Father got up.)
Mother cancels morning activities that were important, because she cannot get out of bed on 4 hours sleep.
Baby proceeds to cry Mommy, mommy, mommy for about 30 minutes before Mother drags herself out of bed for the morning.

So, how's your day going?

A History Test

Although it is not a huge interest of mine, I do feel it is my responsibility to stay informed on political issues. I read this blog because I like the wit and the perspective.

This post was interesting to me. My apologies to anyone who might be a Hillary fan. It's really not just her - it's the concept she and certain other politicians are promoting. America has always been a place where hard work, perseverance, and a little luck (or blessing from God really) can equal at least independence, if not prosperity. The socialist mindset allows no one to be successful. Everyone must be equal. Yes, there have been and continue to be abuses by people who have money, but making everyone equal has so many far-reaching consequences. The economy in socialist countries crashes. There is no reason for anyone to work hard - however hard they work, they get the same. The funniest thing to me is the fact that people teaching socialist ideas are usually millionaires. Are they willing to change their lifestyle? I doubt it.

If we leave capitalism, we will begin to change the fabric of what has made America prosperous for generations. OK, done with my political soapbox.

8 Random Things About My Kitchen

I've been tagged by Flo. I have to confess, even though I talk about my home on this blog all the time, when I get tagged I get nervous trying to come up with anything interesting to share. Here goes...

1. We drink exclusively bottled water at home. We use those big polycarbonate bottles that you buy at the health food store (they don't leach plastic into the water). We have not tested our well water, and in town the water has nasty stuff like chlorine and fluoride in it. We also add a calcium supplement to our water.

2. My computer is in my kitchen. Although it is a terrible distraction at times, it is also the best cookbook ever. You can find recipes for anything on the internet. One of my favorite sites is Cooks.com.

3. I have acquired quite the collection of gluten-free baking supplies since we figured out Hannah's gluten intolerance. Flours: brown rice, white rice, sweet rice, tapioca, sorghum, potato, buckwheat (and I'd like some teff, coconut, almond and amaranth). Xanthan or guar gum is another weird thing used to hold together baked goods. All the different flours have different flavors and textures, suited to different kinds of baking. Really, this makes more sense to me than the all-purpose flour concept. Match the flour to the texture of product you want.

4. I have so little counter space that the only gadget I keep on the counter is the toaster. Well, the microwave too, I guess, although I've been dreaming up a way to move that too.

5. I always have a wall calender. This is one organizational thing I learned from my mom. We don't plan a ton of things, but appointments and out of town guests and birthdays and playdates are kept in a place where Nick and I will both see them.

6. I use all-natural dish soap, dishwasher soap, hand soap and disinfectant. At this point I often buy them pre-made because I am lazy, but since our Dave Ramsey plan is cracking down on this part of our budget, I may start making them. Some of the dishwasher soap doesn't work at all, but I like the Ecover tablets and Citridish. 7th Generation stuff leaves scrum on the silverware. Yuck.

7. The past two weeks I have tried meal planning again. I have done this on and off because I know it is a good way to save money on groceries, but it takes time. Anyway, it has been a complete success, and we have actually decreased our food budget by...more than I care to admit. I also like not having to think, "what are we having for dinner tonight?" I just look at my pre-thought-out-according-to-our-schedule list, and start getting things out.

8. Not in the kitchen, but kitchen related: we sit down at the table at almost all meals. At dinner, we require the girls to sit with us for a reasonable period of time, usually 10-20 minutes. I feel that it is important for them to know how to do this, we get time to interact as a family, and it's better for their digestion anyway. We are very able to take our kids to restaurants because they have learned how to sit for a little while. Of course, we can't stay for hours, but we can usually have a pleasant short experience.

So, there ya go. I tag Christina, Saraw, LizT, and Laura
How come so many of you guys don't blog, or blog where people can't read it? :)

Monday Highlights

1. Nick's parents were here Saturday and Sunday. A good time was had by all.

2. We are now done with the out of town company, and I intend to rest this week!

3. In spite of my intentions to rest, I tackled several organizing jobs this morning. They look good. Now I have to clean up the empty boxes, stacks of dirty dishes, and actually get myself ready for the day - since I was working on other projects instead.

4. We got 6 1/2 inches of snow Sunday. It's very pretty. It's very cold. That's all I have to say.

5. I took on another piano student this week, and I'm realizing that for the next three weeks, I have to teach 3 1/2 hours straight on Tuesdays. Wow. That's a lot of talking. After that my school of worship students are done though. Then it'll be 1 1/2 hours. If I can just hang on until Thanksgiving...

6. I made a carrot cake last night, gluten free, and because I had no sugar in the house, sweetened with maple syrup. (3/4 c. maple syrup to each 1 c. sugar, and decrease other liquid in the recipe by 3 T per cup substituted) It turned out yummy, except that when I shook the cake pan to loosen the bottom of the cake, the cake kind of exploded. So, we have carrot cake crumble. But it tastes good. :) It has apple in it too. Yay for fall food.

7. I have very little to say that is interesting today. I've been working on a blog idea for a couple weeks but it still doesn't make sense. It's on thankfulness/contentedness. It's gonna be good. You'll see.

I just thought of a new tradition for these highlights - please give me a highlight from your week in the comments. :) Have a great week!

Dr. P on parabens and plastic

I emailed my naturopathic doctor, who my family has been seeing for over 10 years (affectionately known as Dr P), and asked him about the paraben and plastic things. Thought I would pass on his response, in case anyone was interested.

"The parabens are waxes. These of course would plug pores and not be particularly healthy for the skin and scalp. But they are not lethal or toxic in any way. This is why stearates (waxes) are used in vitamin supplements. Hot wax is used to treat arthritic pain and without toxic side effects. So I would not get too worked up about their presence in products that you use.

Remember that toxic chemicals like plastics are only as toxic as your system allows. If you take care of your diet and have good nutrient levels in your system you will be able to tolerate chemicals that you are exposed to. In other words with your current diet of good whole foods you and your family should not have a problem with low level exposures to plastics."

Catching up

If you left me a comment in the past week and got no response, I'm sorry! My kids have had a rough couple weeks with colds, and the runny noses wore on us all. I don't know why we couldn't shake this thing! To top it off, Audrey also seems to be teething. I miss my happy, smiley baby.

Anyway, I responded to several comments. Check it out. :)

Monday Highlights

Are you tired of me yet?

1. I am feeling better today. Amazing what a little sleep, a little time with God, and a little time with the husband will do for ya.

2. This week is insane. Among other things, Grandparents are here until Wednesday, in-laws arrive Saturday, haircut (yay!) on Wednesday, teaching piano, going to choir, having the mom's group...

3. The Rockies are one game away from the World Series. This is the point at which I'm actually interested enough to sit and watch games. Baseball is the one sport I actually fully understand.

4. Trying to decide on paint color for the bathroom. I think I want a warm color, and not too intense, but fun... Or maybe something else. I've never decided on a paint color before. What if I hate it?

5. I made gluten-free chocolate cake last night. It turned out okay. It needed more chocolate. I have, however, finally figured out the high altitude baking thing. A little less baking powder and an extra egg does the trick every time.

6. We had SNOW here last night. I have no idea what to say about that. It was pretty, and our house was cozy...but it's COLD out!

Alright. Gotta go do my filing and my yoga.

California Bans Phthalates in toys

For years, people very concerned about the chemicals in plastic have bought expensive wooden toys for their kids and used glass baby bottles. They were thought of as a bit excessive. However, now California has banned the use of a chemical widely used to soften plastic. Other states are also considering bans.

What do you guys think of this? Is it "the sky is falling" alarmist stuff? Would you stop buying plastic toys, in spite of everything, if they were proven harmful? Do you think companies will change the way they manufacture toys as a result? How far do you think we should go to protect our kids?

Cleaners and Asthma

This article says they found 1 in 7 cases of adult asthma are effected by use of spray cleaners. If they affect adults that badly, what about kids? All the more reason to use homemade stuff. Vinegar, castile soap, essential oils, baking soda, and citrus and enzyme-based cleaners you can find at any natural foods stores clean just as well (if not better), and do not leave chemicals in your house. Try it, you'll like it. :)

Grrr

I'm cranky today. I was cranky yesterday also.

I'm currently making soup. Cold day, warm soup, sounds good, right? Except that halfway into this new recipe, I realized there is NO WAY all of this is going to fit in the pan I have. After using a little less of everything, the pan is BRIMMING. Now it has to cook for an hour. I get really mad about stuff like this - mad that I didn't realize it wouldn't fit, mad that I don't have what I need... I really need to just get over it.

The girls have seemed harder than usual the past few days also. Audrey has officially entered toddlerdom, tantrums and all. Today on our way out of church she got so mad for so long that before it was over she had hit her mouth and her head from throwing her head around. I did everything I could to hang onto her, but as soon as I thought she was done she'd start again. Whew. And that's just ONE example from this week.

Date night did not happen this week because the girls were sick. Date night hasn't happened in two months. It's supposed to be every week. The girls' noses have been running since the beginning of time and we can't seem to shake it.

Do you ever wish you had a reset button? Like, none of these things would really bother me all that much if I didn't already feel kind of overstretched. I wish it was possible to just suddenly see everything from a fresh perspective.

Another headline

The U.S. maternal death rate is higher than in European countries. Interesting. Even more interesting is the list they give of the cause of death.

"The major direct causes of U.S. pregnancy-related deaths are blood clots, hemorrhage, complications of medical conditions, and eclampsia and pre-eclampsia, which are marked by dangerously high blood pressure."

How many of these deaths could be prevented by a change in our diets? I already talked about eclampsia last week. Hemorrhage is scary, but in theory should be solved with proper vitamin intake and absorption. Many medical conditions are a result of poor overall health...

I'm sure we cannot keep ALL of these from happening, but obviously, even with our high-tech hospitals, we are doing something wrong. After all, we are all humans. If other humans are experiencing a better rate, let's figure out what they're doing and DO it.

And, although it wasn't mentioned... dare I bring up homebirth here? Many of those same European countries do homebirths for all routine pregnancies. Hmmm...

I find this absolutely fascinating

A type of bacteria in your gut may cause or be the result of chocolate cravings.

I'm thinking Christmas present...

Click here for a $2 off coupon from Big Idea for the new Veggie Tales video.

The current view from my kitchen window

OK, so I know I posted beautiful pics of the sunset the other day, but today when I look out my window, all I can see is this:
Yes folks, that is in fact a doll head on top of a refrigerator (a refrigerator that has been out there for three weeks, by the way), and if you look closely, you will see yet another doll head on the hood of the Ford Bronco.

This begs several questions in my mind.
1. Why?
2. What makes some people have a sense of humor that is witty, one that is silly, or one that is just plain creepy?
3. Did the people who own that house HAVE to allow their son to move in there? The other day he went out on the back porch and looked for all the world like he was smoking pot. Lovely. He also does not appear to work, as his vehicle is always there, while is wife's new Audi is never there.

In spite of the ...um...mental discomfort this gives me, I can't help but also feel a little sorry for these people. They must kind of have a hard life.

Monday Highlights

I know it's Tuesday. Yesterday I for some reason declared war on the mess in the house, cooked a dinner fit for a king, and still managed to take care of kids and teach piano lessons.

1. Found a Pooh costume last night. Party America. $17. What a relief. I was afraid we had gotten ourselves into a pickle and would have to spend $40 and get it online. Hannah is wearing it now and I doubt she'll take it off.

2. Audrey now says, "all done." She says this about EVERYTHING. She'll look at me with those big brown eyes, raise her eyebrows and say, "all done." It is the cutest thing to see such a little kid talking.

3. My grandparents are driving here from CA. They should be here tomorrow night! This grampa is the only great-grandparent who hasn't met the girls. It will be nice to see them.

4. It looks like Nick's parents are coming next weekend. Wow. Lotsa company.

5. Fall has come to Colorado. It was COLD here yesterday morning. Like, in the 30's. All the leaves have turned. We have a little aspen tree outside our bathroom window - its leaves are bright yellow. Beautiful. (I'm feeling a little better about fall.)

6. I made this for dinner last night. Oh, my goodness. The chicken part cost too much for what it was, although it was delicious and we will probably get two or three meals out of it...but that acorn squash tasted like candy. And we have organic acorn squash for $.89 a pound around here right now. Eating in season is cheap, and finding good recipes is priceless. (Did you like that?)

7. On the agenda today: file papers, do yoga, scrub the bathtub, teach piano, and DATE NIGHT!

8. Listening to new Vanessa Carlton today. I think I might really like it. Still deciding.

Diet for moms

Betcha thought this post was about how to lose weight. Well, it's not.

Kim at Starry Sky Ranch posted a series a while back about Home Management Notebooks. This, I have found, is a secret of moms with lotsa kids. They don't keep it all in their heads - they write out everything they know. :)

Anyway, this morning I was looking through the info I downloaded from her. One of the things she included was a "WAP diet for pregnant and nursing moms."

Before copying it here, I want to make a couple of observations. First, midwives all over know that this diet keeps pregnant women from getting eclampsia. The high blood pressure issues that cause doctors to induce labor to "keep the mom and baby safe," (even though these inductions often end in c-section, but that's another post) these issues can be solved through just a couple of days with a diet like this. You must have protein and fat to make a healthy baby. Nursing is a similar story.

I ate similarly to this during both pregnancies, gained about 30-35 pounds both times, and lost it easily by four or five months postpartum, partially thanks to breastfeeding. I had no swelling whatsoever, and my blood pressure never went above 118/80 ish.

So, here's the diet, straight from Kim's download:

Diet for Pregnant and Nursing Mothers

Cod Liver Oil to supply 20,000 IU vitamin A and 2000 IU vitamin D per day

1 quart (or 32 ounces) whole milk daily, preferably raw and from pasture-fed cows

4 tablespoons butter daily, preferably from pasture-fed cows

2 or more eggs daily, preferably from pastured chickens

Additional egg yolks daily, added to smoothies, salad dressings, scrambled eggs, etc.

3-4 ounces fresh liver, once or twice per week

Fresh seafood, 2-4 times per week, particularly wild salmon, shellfish and fish eggs

Fresh beef or lamb daily, always consumed with the fat

Oily fish or lard daily, for vitamin D

2 tablespoons coconut oil daily, used in cooking or smoothies, etc.

Lacto-fermented condiments and beverages

Bone broths used in soups, stews and sauces

Soaked whole grains

Fresh vegetables and fruits

AVOID:

• Trans fatty acids (e.g., hydrogenated oils)
• Junk foods
• Commercial fried foods
• Sugar /White flour
• Soft drinks
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Cigarettes
• Drugs (even prescription drugs)

Update on the piles

So, based on how many pieces of paper enter this house every day, it's going to take a little more than filing 5 papers a day. Otherwise I may be working on this for three years before my kitchen piles are gone. ;) Maybe I'll do 10.

My kitchen window

I took this picture looking out my kitchen window tonight as the sun was setting.

Apples and Pumpkins

We visited the Happy Apple Farm last weekend.

Hannah was concerned about the pumpkins laying all over the ground. She decided they needed to be put back in the box. I don't know why my head is cut off in the picture.

Hannah Kay

I have captured some great pics of Hannah recently. Thought I'd share. :)

This was while we were moving. She found a cowboy hat in the garage. Nick and I bought these a couple of years ago to go to a "hoedown." Funny mental picture? Yes.








This is not really a link. I can't make it quit doing this.

She learned this trick from her friend Jenna that comes to our small group. Sigh! It was only a matter of time. :)












I love watching my girls play with girl stuff. Women love to feel beautiful, at any age!

Fun

We went to the mall tonight, returned a pair of pants, and looked for a Pooh costume. We decided to take a family picture in a photo booth, just because we could. Audrey was less than thrilled with the whole thing.

Piles

I had a revelation today.

First, a little background. For all three years of our married life, we have had piles of papers in the kitchen. Bills, mail, magazines, you-name-it. It gets piled on the kitchen counter. I have always hated this. Here I am, miss organized, and my kitchen always looks like a mess. So I was reading a blog today (currently I can't remember which one. If I figure it out I will add the link.) She recommends starting a new habit on Saturdays. Just as an example, she said, "say you want to file 5 papers every day after breakfast." A light bulb came on. That would solve the problem!

Then, I started thinking about the problem itself. My mom ALWAYS had a pile of papers on the counter when I was growing up. It is something I am used to. Organization, however, never was my mom's strong point. She would tell you that herself. Another piece of the puzzle is the fact that in my brain it is Nick's job to take care of the finances. This includes the millions of bills (okay, not MILLIONS, but it sometimes feels like millions)

So, here's the revelation: organization is not Nick's strong point. It's mine. I have every skill I need to come up with a system to fix this. Nick will love it. I will no longer have piles on the counter. We will be able to pay all our bills on time all the time, because we will know what's due when and where the bill is.

I have been living with something when I have everything I need to fix it. Duh. Do you have anything like this? I really believe that God gives families the skills and talents needed to allow for success. This includes the kids - not just the parents. Hannah already has an incredible gift of organization as well. Hers may surpass mine because I will encourage her in it. I hope it does. And not in an obsessive compulsive way - in a way that gives life and finds order out of chaos.

Be inspired also today - what problem do you have that you or a family member has the talents to fix?

Monday Highlights

I've decided to do highlights on Mondays. Usually I have lots.

-Audrey was sick all weekend with a high fever. I suspect it may be her throat. If she's not better tomorrow I'll have to take her in, I suppose. We've had a few tough nights around here.

-We watched Elizabethtown on tv last night, and that inspired me to download the soundtrack. Good music, all in one place. We decided that is one of our favorite movies, too.

-Could somebody please tell me how it got to be October already?

-We went and picked apples and pumpkins at the Happy Apple Farm on Saturday. It was incredibly windy and dusty, and I don't think anybody but me had fun. I had a blast. I need my own farm. Anyone want to buy me one?

-I played piano at a little tiny church downtown again this weekend. Hymns straight from the hymnal. I had so much fun. I talked to this little old lady who has been going to church there since 1954. Folks, that is a post in and of itself.

-Yesterday I SCRUBBED the kitchen. It has not felt clean to me yet, so we pulled out the fridge and stove and I cleaned under those, and I scrubbed all the baseboards. It doesn't look much different, but it feels so much better to me. And now my arms and back are sore.

-Some friends and I are planning a reunion for my Bible school graduating year. I am so excited about this. I think all involved would say that year changed our lives and we made friends for life. I can't wait for next summer.

-My friend Tara was here from California Thursday through Saturday morning. She flew out for an appointment with Dr P. She wanted to see a doctor like him and liked that he had a track record with my family. She starts her fast and cleansing diet this week. Go, Tara! I hadn't seen her in about 5 years. We graduated from high school together. That was almost 10 years ago. I'm getting old.

Alright. Naptime for tired, cranky, sick kids.

Interesting

A news story I came across today. I have to say, I like that she won. If she wants to continue to breastfeed, she really can't go for 9 hours without it. Nice to see courts supporting her decision to do that. If you ask me, the fact that she is taking a medical licensing exam when she has a 4 month old might not be the wisest choice she could make, but that's another blog for another day.

Child Drowning Prevention

We are rarely around water here in Colorado, but if we had a pool in our backyard, I would get my kids into this. Just the video made me cry watching it. Incredible how they can teach such tiny kids to be safe. They have instructors all over the nation.

On playing outside

Hannah requested we go outside today. I don't really remember the last time she asked.

It's funny. Of late, I have not thought of myself as a particularly outdoorsy person. In the past year (or two!), we have done more tv watching than I care to admit. As we were playing outside today, I was thinking of all the things my siblings and I did outside as kids. When I was really young and we were living in California, we would spend hours outside - chasing chickens around the backyard, working in the garden, digging "streams" with the hose, riding bikes on the patio...the possibilities seemed endless. When we moved to Colorado we lived for a year out here in the forest before moving into town. We had an "Indian Camp" complete with teepees made out of small fallen trees and old sheets. We also built a stage by nailing boards between two trees and throwing sheets over it for curtains. We would take our old red wagon and give each other "tours" around the five acres. When we did move to town, I would spend hours in my garden.

So, not only have I been missing the outside, I've been missing my own creativity!

When I got pregnant with Hannah and then had to recover from the c-section, it changed the way I related to the outside. Suddenly everything seemed uncomfortable and full of germs. Even the way I moved seemed to change. Does anybody else relate to this? I became an old lady! :)

Add to all of this a dumb fear I have always had of looking silly or undignified, and you have a recipe for someone who does not spend much time outside. I think one of the most profound things on TV is Bert and Ernie. They have this one episode in which Ernie is talking to an elephant on a banana. He encourages Bert to try it. It goes something like this:

B: I don't want to. I'll look silly.
E: Silly's fun, Bert!
B: I'm not really good at that kind of thing.
E: Just try it.
B: I'M JUST NOT EMOTIONALLY SECURE ENOUGH FOR THIS, ERNIE!

I can relate. When did I become so self-conscious?

But today, we just went outside and we played. I taught Hannah to catch a ball (well, I taught her to hold her hands and arms close together so I could strategically drop the ball in her arms. Ya gotta start somewhere!). I gathered up some of the millions of pine cones and threw them toward one area so we can actually mow, and the girls can walk without tripping. Hannah picked at the bark on a tree - the first time she's ever seen that. Audrey looked at pine needles. We discovered a feather on the ground. I showed Hannah how to blow a dandelion puff. We picked wildflowers. We enjoyed the clouds and sunshine.

And I gotta say, this beats being a grownup any day. I'm never going back.

To do this week

-Replace burnt out lights on both cars
-Get new mascara
-Hang up curtains in Living Room (half off at Target!)
-Go to the Happy Apple Farm. Pick apples. Have fun.
-Hang out with friend Tara A, coming to see Dr P, all the way from CA.
-Paint bathroom
-Buy bird food and put up feeder
-Teach piano
-Have mom's group at my house
-Grocery shop
-Organize closet space in our bedroom
-Go to sister Holly's house to check out the wedding dress she designed and is sewing.
-Other boring things: pay bills, return stuff we decided we don't want, install carpet tack strip between hall and bathroom, put door closer thingy on back screen door, take DishNetwork equipment to UPS, find a Pooh costume for Hannah (they're going to be Tigger and Pooh)...


Got my work cut out for me, ya think?

This is my Autumn impression

I gotta be honest, there is nothing in me right now that wants it to be fall yet. Like, at all. Last winter was really tough for me, having a tiny baby and a toddler, and it was FREEZING cold, and there was snow on the ground for like 2 months solid and that never happens here, and I seriously think I might have had that S.A.D. thing...

But, I'm making a batch of these right now. And, if there's one thing I like about fall, it's pumpkin spice anything. Add chocolate to it, and you've got a winner for sure.

Breastfeeding

Did you know that even if you have adopted, or allowed your milk to dry up, you can still breastfeed? I came across this really interesting page today that tells how to reestablish milk supply after it is gone or almost gone. (It also has links to lots of other fascinating info!)

I have so much sympathy for women who have had a tough time breastfeeding - all odds are against them in our culture. It seems like MOST women have never seen it done. I had the blessing of growing up with it in my home and in my extended family. I remain convinced thus far, that anyone who wants to can breastfeed IF they find the right support system. Even if you have to start from scratch, it can be done!

And by the way, kellymom.com is just generally a fantastic resource when it comes to breastfeeding.

Football season is here part 2

So, I guess this post really struck a chord with everybody. I have to say, I was shocked at the sheer volume of replies. OK, so there were like 10. But that is a new record for this blog. :)

I have a bunch of thoughts, and they don't seem to follow any kind of progression, but I'd like to share them anyway.

If you didn't read Leslie's comment toward the end, you should. I think she hit the nail on the head. We need to know that we are important enough that our husbands will defend time with us like they would defend their time watching a game. As I thought through that, the times when I have been most cranky about Nick watching a game have been times we have not had enough quality time together.

Our lives have to be balanced. I think that means different things for different families.

You guys should all come over next time Nebraska is on tv. It'll be fun. I know it's a drive for some of you. I don't care. :)

I'm not sure I will ever get to a point where I get involved in the games. Nick's not even sure he wants me to. He told me last night that he feels like my disinterest keeps his interest in balance. I did, however, walk by a sports apparel store in the mall today. Nick has been talking about how he wanted a new Nebraska t-shirt to wear during games. So, I got him one. It made him laugh. Watching games...not so much. Buying clothes? I can handle that one! Ha!

A Book Meme

Marianne tagged me for this book meme. Hmmm... Hopefully I can find the books I have recently read. And incidentally, what's a "meme" and why is it called that anyway?

My currently reading list:
"Keep a Quiet Heart" by Elizabeth Elliot
"Awaken the Giant Within" by Anthony Robbins
In Style, Real Simple, Cottage Living, Better Homes and Gardens magazines

Total number of books in my library:
I have no clue. I have two full bookcases, and another half of one with music books

Last book finished:
"Parenting Isn't for Cowards" by James Dobson
"The Total Money Makeover" by Dave Ramsey
"Becoming a Chief Home Officer" by Allie Pleiter
"The Book of Numbers" by Moses

Last book bought:
"Lifegiving" Tammy Maltby

5 Meaningful books: (Bible aside)
"Till We Have Faces" by C.S. Lewis
"The Power of a Praying Parent" by Stormie Omartian
"Lifegiving" by Tammy Maltby
"The Red Tent" by Anita Diamant
"What Our Mothers Didn't Tell Us" by Danielle Crittenden

5 Favorite Books:
My favorite books are the meaningful ones, but I will add:
"The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett
"Prescription for Nutritional Healing" by Balsch

5 others to tag:
Kyla
Laura
Flo
I can't think of anyone else who will do it...SaraW?

On discouragement

This was on Jana's blog today:

"...the Bible declares from beginning to end that faith is the law of the spiritual life, and that according to our faith it always shall be and always will be unto us. Then, since faith and discouragement cannot, in the very nature of things, exist together, it is perfectly manifest that discouragement must be an absolute barrier to faith. And that where discouragement rules, the converse to the law of faith must rule also, and it shall be to us, not according to our faith, but according to our discouragement.

In fact, just as courage is faith in good, so discouragement is faith in evil; and, while courage opens the door to good, discouragement opens it to evil...

Discouragement flies where faith appears; and, vice versa, faith flies when discouragement appears. We must choose between them, for they will not mix."

-Hannah Whitall Smith

I've never thought of it that way before - discouragement is faith in evil. It is believing that evil has more power to win in my life than good does. Really, it is believing that God is not powerful enough to be in control. This is one of those "retrain your mind" things. We have to decide how we're going to think.

Football Season is here

I have a confession to make: I have a love/hate relationship with football. Okay, so it tends more on the hate side than the love side. Every fall, I am torn.

On the one hand, I love my husband very much, and he loves football very much. Somebody remind me of the algebra illustration that I cannot remember here. If (something) and (something) then (something)=(something) :) At least it should.

Anyway, I grew up in a home where we did not watch sports. My dad enjoys them, but never really followed a team, and neither of my brothers caught the bug, whatsoever. In fact, the thought of Ryan or Nathan sitting in front of a game is humorous to me, come to think of it.

Nick, on the other hand, is from Nebraska. Nebraska is the world headquarters of college football fans. There is nothing like a Nebraska fan in the world. Seriously. When we go back there to visit, the streets are literally empty if there's a game on. Football is what men, and women for that matter, do. When Nick calls his parents, the first 20 minutes are usually a debate about what player is doing well this week, or whether someone will be well enough from their injury to play, or chat about some new exciting recruit. To be honest, I tune it out.

Thankfully, I have a husband who is incredibly understanding about this difference in our cultures. When he watches a game, he will usually chase the girls around the living room, change diapers, referee arguments, and even interact occasionally. He does not yell at people (or at the tv. :) Now that we have DVR (this is BAD - incredibly addictive!) he will even "pause" the game and deal with a crisis. Happily, I might add.

So my issue is, I am a grouch. I cannot figure out for the life of me why it frustrates me so much that he likes this. Yes, it is time out of our weekend, but it's not THAT much time. Every time he watches a game, I wrestle with my attitude the entire time. I go into martyr/feel sorry for myself mode. I hate that I am so stinkin' selfish about it.

Does anybody else deal with this? This is like the one thing Nick ever asks for himself...

Headlines

Nothing very useful to say today, feel free to skip this one. :)

-Unpacking is mostly done. Done meaning the boxes are out of the house (except for our bedroom). Now the garage is another matter altogether. But, my living room looks pretty today!

-I have potted flowers on the front deck/porch thingy. This makes me smile.

-Yesterday I figured out how to change the broken tail light and turn signal in the Jetta. Go me!

-Tonight we are going to choir. I am so very much looking forward to this.

-Anyone know how I can get my 1 year old to quit waking up at 3:30 every night? She STILL does this. I nurse her in my sleep and wake up with her kicking me or whacking my face a few hours later. I would just let her cry it out, except then she wakes up Hannah and they keep EACH OTHER up. Sigh.

-My parents get back from their trip in four days! Several times a day, I go through this with Hannah:

H: Where Mama? (I'm mommy, gramma is mama)
Me: She went bye bye on an airplane.
H: Where Papa?
Me: He went bye bye on an airplane.
H: Where Amy?
Me: She went bye bye on an airplane.
H: Where Nathan?
Me: He went bye bye on an airplane.

At this point she will ask where the kitty is (at gramma's house), where Disney and Bella (gramma's dogs) are, (they're at gramma's house), and then begins to go through Daddy, Holly and David, Ryan... Then sometimes we start all over with Gramma again. She misses everybody!

-I made rice crispies treats last night. Nick and I are addicted to these, I have to admit. Whole Foods has kosher (and gluten free!) marshmallows, and puffed rice made with brown rice. I know it's probably not much better for us, but it makes us feel better. We can finish the entire pan in two days between the two of us. It's bad.

-I'm playing the piano for a wedding on Saturday. Nice. Easy money! It's amazing what people happily pay for an hour of your time when you play well. I have been so glad, over and over again, that I did not quit piano lessons when I was 10.

-I got new makeup the other day. About 6 months ago, my body decided to outright rebel when I so much as touch anything with soy in it. Seriously. Eating it makes me sick as a dog, and I get an itchy rash on my elbows and knees. It is SO weird. Wearing makeup or lotion with it burns like fire and eventually makes my skin red and swollen. Therefore, my choices for cheap makeup are limited. (Read: nonexistent) However, I found Origins. It's not cheap, but it's not horribly expensive either, and they use very few nasty chemicals. Most of their stuff is soy free and paraben* free, and it smells SO good.

*I have decided to attempt to avoid parabens if I have the choice. The article I linked says nothing has been proven and I don't go overboard. I do however, want to make the best choices possible.

-Have I mentioned we're going to choir tonight?

OK, off to do something more productive.

Hope

If you're a mom, make time for this article today.

Audrey's Birthday

I found the camera cable this morning. The third time I looked for it. In the computer bag. Where it belongs. Sheesh.

So, I know several people who have recently thrown beautiful, creative first birthday parties for their kids. This wasn't that. Signing a year lease 4 days after Audrey's birth timed our move perfectly. But, to make myself feel better, I told myself multiple times, "She will not know the difference, unless I get all upset about it. Then she will know something is up." We did what we could, and we had fun, and I didn't kill myself over it. I suppose the cute party will have to come next year.

With that disclaimer, here are some pictures. Like everybody always says, I can't believe my baby is one already...

Clutter

This is a subject that is currently close to my heart. I thought I would offer some of the tips I'm using. Maybe they can be useful to you as well!

1. I read a Feng Shui article in a magazine once. Feng Shui is HUGE on decluttering. It said something like, "Go around your house, touching everything in it. Ask yourself about each item, "Do I love this, does it make me smile? If the answer is no, throw it away." After having a good laugh about the way they said it, I have applied that principle ever since. If something makes me feel sad when I look at it, or if it was given to me and I have no use for it, or if I bought it and no longer need it, I throw it away. I DO NOT throw away things that have meaningful sentimental value. I have to be careful about this, because I tend to throw away too much and then I'm sorry later. You may lean in the opposite direction - be aware of how much you need to/want to get rid of.

There is no reason, for example, for me to have 3 sets of measuring cups. 2 of them I think I bought at the dollar store when I got my own apartment in college. I have Tupperware ones I got as a wedding present. There. 5 more square inches of cabinet space.

Note: Useful things do not necessarily have to make you smile for you to keep them. I do not advocate throwing away your dishwasher, no matter your feelings toward it.

2. Put same-sized objects together. They fit better and take up less space.

3. Utilize containers - glass bowls, baskets, lazy susans, vases - anything can be used to group things together and keep them looking neat

4. Keep your focus - what is important? For me, I love books. I also love to have people over. Therefore, I am not likely to get rid of many books, except on paperbackswap. I also want to keep most of my duplicate dishes because they will allow me to entertain. I do not spend a ton of time baking, so some of my baking stuff can go. We only have two bedrooms and therefore don't need 5 sets of extra sheets in the linen closet. At the very least they can go into storage in the garage for the day we have a guest room (or when the girls want to build forts with them in a couple years!).

5. Clothing - they say if you haven't worn it in a year, you never will again. Take it to Goodwill. Your kids will be mad in 20 years when you say, "I used to have one of those" about something they would DIE to have. But really, do you have space to store it for 20 years? The kids clothes should be packed away in boxes for future siblings or sold or taken to Goodwill once they are too small. Allowing them to stay in the drawer just complicates getting them dressed (and keeping the dresser drawers closed!).

6. Toys - Are there pieces that end up all over the floor, never used for their intended purpose? Are there things your kids are bored with? Pack them away for a month and begin rotating the toys. Every month when you bring out the old stuff, put away different ones. Voila'! New toys every month.

7. If you don't know where to start, set your timer for 15 minutes and do SOMETHING, anything! If you are still overwhelmed when you're done, set the timer for 15 minutes and rest. Then set it again and work for another 15 minutes. Or, just keep going. If I can get into cleaning mode, I can change the world in the course of an hour. :)

Alright. Gotta go use some more of my own advice! Happy decluttering!

A cottage of your own?

Anybody want to move in across the street from me? The neighbor (who I gather just bought the place) just told me they're putting it up for rent soon. 2 bed, 1 bath, 650 sq. ft., $650 a month neg. There's a little fenced yard with a very old-looking shed made out of logs behind it. In my book, a million times better than a 2 bedroom apartment, and probably cheaper! I would add a pic, but I can't find my cord for the camera... Arg.

Thanks!

Kyla nominated me for the Rockin' Girl Blogger award. Thanks, Kyla. Now, I'm aware that half the blogosphere has one of these, but it's still special to me... :)



So, I'm nominating Flo, whose creativity and opposite political opinions I appreciate, even though we're never met. I would love to read a post about your political perspective, Flo. I'm terribly curious! :)

And elixir, whose real name I'm not sure of, but I have been enjoying her thoughtful posts for the past couple months.

Well, we're here

The past few days have been a whirlwind. Tonight we're having my family over for birthday cake for Audrey before my parents and youngest siblings leave for CA for 10 days. We worked our tails off since Friday, and there is still much to be done. We also have yet to clean the townhouse and check out with our old landlord. Seeing as how the girls are still sick with colds, not quite sure how I'm going to get that done.

I was thinking today, as I worked on putting away the endless boxes of stuff into the very limited space in the kitchen, that I believe contentedness must be practiced. Here's what I mean: we have looked forward to moving to this house for months, really. Back in February we began looking for a place to live. This is where we ended up. There are so many things I love about it. As I walked through this poorly cared-for cottage, I saw a place where we could thrive, even before it looked like such a place. When it comes down to reality though, sometimes the piles of boxes and lack of space threaten to crowd out the hopes and dreams. Do you have any idea what I'm talking about?

Honestly, I could probably move to a brand-new, huge house and still find something to be upset about. I think most people could. So, I want to learn to be content here. Here, with the toilet that Nick has made three (so far) trips to Lowe's for the stuff to fix it. Here, with the lack of closet and cabinet space. Here, with the carpet that is less than perfect. Here, with...fill in the blanks.

I was thinking of the Rich Mullins song, "One Thing."

Everybody I know says they need just one thing
But what they really mean is they need just one thing more
Everybody seems to think they got it coming
Well, I know that I don't deserve it, still I want to love and serve you more and more
You're my one thing

You're my one thing
And the pure in heart shall see God

And then, there's Phil. 4:11-13:

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

And THEN, there's 2 Peter 1:3:

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

So, if I know that God has given me everything I need, and that it is possible to live in contentedness, I'm determined to find it! I have always loved the idea of having a simple life - not needing much to be full of joy, hospitable, at peace, and able to live within our means. So, this house is a gift from God to me. Without being forced to, I'm not sure I would ever learn how to live that way. Watch me learn!

Food and faith

Head over to Ancora Imparo for one of the most balanced posts I've read, on how nutrition relates to God's calling on our lives.

Waste

The title of this blog reminds me of a Phish song from my hippie days. Sigh.

So, I've been working on reading through the Bible in my quiet time. I wasn't sure what to read, so I just decided to start at the beginning. I was hit a few months ago with the thought that I don't really know God like I want to. I know lots of things ABOUT God, but I wanted to know HIM better. What does He like? What things make Him happy? He has a personality, you know.
Anyway, I have worked my way to Numbers. There is a whole lot in the book of Numbers that is...less than thrilling. I cringed inwardly when I got there. However, I have been asking God to reveal Himself to me, and He is faithful to do that.

I have been struck, as I read through the ceremonies and traditions outlined in Numbers, by the concept of sacrifice versus waste. The Israelites were told to sacrifice a baby lamb - one in the morning, one in the evening, every day. They also were to make a drink offering - just pour out good wine on the ground in a holy place that God would see. This is just one of a long line of sacrifices in a long line of occasions that had to be made to forgive the sins of the people.

But God, what a waste! What about poor people? What about the sheep's mothers who carried and birthed those babies only to have them burned up - not even used for food? What about the expense that was? Surely there were people who needed those things to feed their families! It's not like God needed them! I guess that is the age-old argument against tithing too.

In the world's eyes, sacrifice will always look wasteful. Why would you allow yourself to be uncomfortable for somebody else? For me, why should I stay home with my kids and do dishes over and over? (I always mention dishes. They are my least favorite.)

I think there are several reasons.

1. We are not really our own provider. We work and try to be productive because it's what we are supposed to do, but God is the one who provides for us. Ps. 127:2, in the alternate translation in the NIV, says, "In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat, for while they sleep he provides for those he loves." When we give away some of ourselves, we surrender control over our own destiny. It's not all up to us. I think it is possible to tithe out of habit and not remember this, by the way. Don't give out of compulsion.

2. It changes who I am, to sacrifice. I was telling Nick last night that nothing I do strokes my pride anymore. I have had to find all new reasons to hold my head high and invest in people. Hard. But best for me. Wearing trendy clothes all the time, being on stage, achieving, looking like I have it all together... That's where I used to find my security. I have spent the past 5 days with a flaming case of pink eye, wiping green running noses, rocking crying babies with stuffy noses late at night, coughing my head off, disinfecting, washing my hands until they are raw, and resolving not to worry - we'll get packed and moved on Friday...somehow. Not exactly food for the ego. But, once the transformation is complete (it might take years!), I will be secure in my value. It won't depend on my performance anymore. I like that outcome.

3. God said to. I think sometimes, with certain things, we need to be able to say "I don't understand, but I will do it anyway." We know in our heads that we can trust God. So, trust Him. If He says something, don't question it - just do it. I have to pretend sometimes that I'm trusting. I don't feel it. I will say out loud - "I am letting go of this, this is Yours!" And that's the end of it...until 2 minutes later when I have to do it again. Sometimes I think we can over-complicate our lives by demanding answers for everything. I try to explain to Hannah why I need her to do most things, but there are times she says, "How come?" And I just can't explain it, so the answer is "Because." That HAS to be okay coming from God. Just because.

Another thought that comes to mind in this area is our new pastor that we voted on yesterday. More than 95% approval. Cool. It does, however, make me wonder about that 5%. Why would they vote no? Do they think they know better than everybody else? From the first announcement, I decided to trust the process. We elected a selection committee. They prayed and fasted. We prayed for them. They spent months looking at the options, trying to hear from God about who He wanted to be pastor. They settled on Brady Boyd. Not who anyone expected. But why would I question the decision? If I couldn't agree to submit to the authority at that church, I would go somewhere I could submit to. There is rest and protection in trusting people. And I can still say that after what our church has been through. Anyway, kind of a rabbit trail there, but maybe not so much. I believe God wants me home with my kids. So I do it. I can't expect anything in return because staying home does not guarantee me obedient, healthy kids. But I'm doing it anyway because it's what I'm supposed to do.

Welp, I better go pack boxes, reminding myself of my sermon the whole time. Two more days!

Carpet...naturally!

So, I think I've mentioned that the new house had a terrible pet smell problem. I have a story to tell, edited for length and clarity. :)

Tuesday I had an appointment to have the carpet treated and cleaned by a professional company. I knew they were going to use nasty chemicals, but I didn't know what else to do. We can't live in a sewer, ya know? Tuesday morning I talked with the mother of one of my piano students. She owns a furniture restoration company. "Don't have them put chemicals in your house," she tells me. "Get some Citra-Solv."

Of course. What's that again?

Anyway, I went down to the local health food store, got a $10 bottle of the stuff, diluted it 1 part Citra-solv to 5 parts water like she told me, and using a turkey baster, injected this into the carpet in the dirty spots. My parents own a black light, which enables you to see where the urine spots are. Instantly, the smell was gone. It smelled like oranges instead.

Today, we rented a carpet cleaning machine and filled it with 1 cup of plain white vinegar per 2 gallons very hot water and cleaned the carpet. It smells clean, looks MUCH better, and no chemicals. The best part? We had planned on paying maybe $250 to have the smell professionally taken care of.

Carpet machine - $25
Citrasolv - $10
Vinegar - $1.50
Bucket/turkey baster - $7

For a grand total of... $43.50. Nice.

We're siiick.

Ugh. (Read that out loud without breathing through your nose)

We did not manage to escape the nasty cold going around. In addition, Hannah has this weird habit of poking the corner of the tag on her blankie into the corner of her eye. As a result, if pink eye is going around, she gets it. (Any brilliant ideas there? She LOVES her tag.) Therefore to date all four of us have had it. Gross. We are washing hands till they're raw and disinfecting nonstop.

Have I mentioned we're moving in five days?

This is one of those times where relying on my own strength would be comical. When we get through this, well and moved, it will be because of God. And amazingly, to this point I'm trusting fairly well. The tone in our home is upbeat and light. We're in this together. I'm so grateful!

I'm here

...Just flying from one thing to the next. Quick headlines:

-Audrey took her first steps this week. She was with my mom while I was getting my teeth cleaned so I missed the first ones, but she's very excited to demonstrate ever since.

-Nick got moved down to 50 hours a week at work. To most people this sounds like a lot. To us, it's a vacation. No more working weekends, no more getting home at 6:30 every night... What a relief!

-10 more days until moving day. If you're around and you're volunteering, yes, please come help. Let me know when you can be here. :)

-We're really excited about Pastor Brady. He's a shoe-in.

-Today I left the girls at "Mom's Day Out" at church, and went to Starbucks and read and then window shopped for a while. It was wonderful.

-I do not feel like cooking dinner. Ever again. Maybe it's because it's 90 degrees in my house right now.

-I packed 5 boxes today. I better go get more boxes.

-Currently reading: Elizabeth Elliot's "Keep a Quiet Heart." This book has been on my bookshelf for seriously 10 years. There is no way it could be more relevant to me today. Also picked up some Kierkegaard for the first time. Don't know why I have never read this guy before. Where has he been all my life?

-Carpet cleaning: tomorrow. Maybe our new house will then quit reeking of pet.

-Hannah is learning to use her words. A couple days ago, I got an "Up, please?" instead of Uhhh..uhh...UHHHH!!!" This signals success in my book. It's the little things.

That's all I got for now. Be back soon.