tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70146006408708009932024-02-07T13:07:47.890-06:00Mrs. MamaWelcome to my space where I share my highs and lows of motherhood and being the best wife I can be. You can expect to see lots of pictures of my son Jack, some recipes, marriage talk, work rants, ramblings,a little DIY, and girl talk. I love television, family time, baking, organizing, reading, and blogging. Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger430125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-33176033572926855562014-11-06T17:00:00.000-06:002014-11-06T17:00:00.023-06:00Moving<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a lot of thought I have decided to start a new blog. I just don't feel like Mrs. Mama anymore. It is just hard even coming to this space. If you would like to continue following our story you can click <a href="http://perksofponder.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The blog is still in the early stages and I erally like it that way. It feels good to be back at the basics, raw even. I like it. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-29719600724704600032014-11-06T15:13:00.000-06:002014-11-06T15:13:06.066-06:00Boo to Halloween<div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Jack was awful Halloween night. I'm talking awful!!! I pleaded with him. I pleaded with God. I even went through the 5 stages of grief before I gave in and went home. </span></div>
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Our first stop was my Grandmothers. He was getting into everything. He literally pulled her oxygen out. Although it was cold outside, I was sweating. After about ten minutes of chasing his, taking things from him, and saying no continuously I had enough. </div>
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Next up was the church festival. Jack saw the bouncy house first and I had never seen him so excited. The man running it was nervous about a tiny Jack getting in and I assured him that he could hold his own. He loved it! It turned out to be the best part of our whole night. </div>
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I wrangled him out so we could do a little trunk or treating. Well Mr. Jack wasn't down with it. He wanted to run free. I had to hold onto him as he fought me and threw himself to the ground. Lovely!</div>
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All the other children are having a wonderful time and my child is having a meltdown because I won't let him run into traffic. After he threw his bucket of candy with four pieces in it for the tenth time and a man walked by passing out a Parenting magazine that didn't fit anywhere so I was forced to hold it, Jack, and his bucket. I teared up and left. </div>
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I was ready to call it a night but I just couldn't. I had spent 40 bucks on that costume and by God I hadn't had that precious moment yet. I should have called it a night. </div>
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Jack continued to try and run away as we tried to maneuver around cars and a darkening sky. He would just throw himself to the ground if I tried to hold onto him. I was sweating yet it was in the 40's. </div>
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I lost my phone. It hit me quick and I knew it was gone. During all the craziness it had been dropped. Of course, I was angry with myself for even having it on me. </div>
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My Mom has promised me that next Halloween will be easier but for now I say boo to Halloween! </div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-82304810277585203722014-10-29T10:56:00.004-05:002014-10-29T10:56:49.608-05:00Things To Look Forward To<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To say that my life has been hectic and crazy would be a crazy under exaggeration. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jack and I are still at my parent's house and I'm pretty sure we will be for awhile. I've made my peace with it. It isn't ideal, especially for someone who has been on their own since 18, but I know it is what is best right now. Having the support of my family has been amazing. Of course, I miss the decorating on my own aspect and being the matriarch of my family but I remind myself that this is temporary. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">November and December are my favorite two months so that is helping me get into a great spirit. Not only is it the holiday season but Jack's birthday is on the 7th of November and we are out of school that day. I also have some fun things planned. I'm not going to let our situation ruin this time for us. </span><br />
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Thankfully his costume came in the mail days before Halloween.</div>
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Can you tell I'm a librarian?</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">No big news on the divorce front. The lawyers are doing their thing and my stomach stays in knots. I had wished we could stay away from the courts but there is no other way. I just have to keep my faith and stay strong. I know that God will keep us safe and whole. </span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-40140673367625585952014-10-14T05:30:00.000-05:002014-10-14T05:30:02.002-05:00Marriage Is A Tricky Thing<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I am unexpectally going through a divorce, I have given a lot of thought to this concept of marriage. Please bare with me as I fumble through to try and express my thoughts and feelings. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't have a huge circle of people in my life but I am blessed to have the people I do have in my life. I have a lot of family members but we aren't close to everyone. My immediate family members are the ones I've had unconditional love for and from since always. There isn't a question, worry, or concern when it comes to these people in my life. I love them for always, no matter what. The relationship you have with your parents and siblings is so natural and without conditions or stipulations. I know this isn't true for all families but for us it is. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">November 7, 2012 is the day that I became a mother and my, without a doubt, unconditional love was born. There isn't even a question about my love for him. It is just automatic. If you are a mother then you know exactly what I'm saying and will understand how hard it is to explain. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When you have a family with a husband, wife, and a child there is a lot of love there but the love is different. I believe the reason they say put your spouse before your child is because the relationship you have with your spouse takes work in order for that love to stay and grow. The relationship you have with your child is just an automatic love and it's easy to put that relationship first because it feels natural so it's just easier. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My parents love me unconditionally, as do my siblings, my nephew, and my son Jack. I know there are women and men who probably love their spouse unconditionally, who regardless of what the other did would forgive them, but for most spouses there is something that could break that bond. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Marriage is tricky. Oh how I wish it was as easy as I once thought. I believed you loved it each other and that was it. I grew up surrounded in love and didn't know any other way. Now I know different. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-22586456303492537232014-10-13T08:00:00.000-05:002014-10-13T08:00:01.068-05:00Boys Are Odd Creatures<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since Jack and I are staying with my parents, we are able to spend even more time with Bennett. My sister, her husband, and their son Bennett are also living with my parents while their house is being built. Yes, there is a house full but it is great!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From all of this togetherness between Jack and Bennett I've learned that boys are odd creatures. Put two boys together and the odd factor increases. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are some things I just don't get about boys:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Climbing into the toy box is way more fun than any toy inside.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. One minute one boy can barely tap the other and there is a total meltdown. The next minute the same boy can slap the fire out of the other and they die laughing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Crashing their cars into each other causes a laughing riot like no other.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Except for splashing water out of the tub which is hilarious and when it lands on me and I say "stop it" the boys just can't stop the belly laughing. Evil little things :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. The word booty causes happiness, dancing, and laughter that only boys understand. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Those two boys tie up like no ones business but man oh man do they love each other. Out of nowhere Bennett will say "I love you Jack" or Jack will lean over and give Bennett a huge hug. Of course, two seconds later they are fighting over a toy neither of them want. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Attention, good or bad, has to be fair. If Jack jumps in the recliner and we tell him to get down. We already know that Bennett is going to do it next just so we can tell him to get down too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. They love, love, love to annoy each other and make the other one scream. I thought girls were known for their screetching tantrums but these boys could beat out any girl.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9. Being naked is fun. Running naked is even better. Running naked with a towel as a cape equals the most fun ever. Wrestling them to get their clothes on is not so fun for mamas. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10. They don't sit still very often, so getting sweet cuddles come in fleeting moments, but when they are sweet and loving there is nothing like it. The way a son loves his mama is an undescribable love. I will also say my relationship with my nephew Bennett is a strong one. It makes me one happy Lala that he and I are so close. Hopefully, we will always have that strong bond. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bennett and Jack keep us on our toes. You never know when they are going toward each other if they are going to slap each other or hug. Boys are just odd. Maybe girls are too, but since we have no ribbons and bows to compare them to, I'm just gonna have to go with that boys are odd. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do these behaviors describe little boys you know or are the girls you know just as odd? </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-13460755969950821712014-10-08T23:57:00.003-05:002014-10-08T23:57:45.803-05:00 What Will The Future Hold?<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Living amist this difficult situation has me thinking about my future again unlike I thought I would ever again. Not so long ago I thought my future was written. I had the husband, the baby, the job, the house, and I thought the future was just living it. Surprise. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Life has a way doesn't it? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My future is wide open again. I thought I had married my soul mate. Now, one day in the far future, I might be married to someone else. It seems mind blowing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Where will we live? There were months where I struggled with whether or not our family should move and now we have without much thought, just action. In the future Jack and I will move into a new house. His baby bedroom that I pictured turning into toddler bedroom is now a distant thought. He will probably never see that bedroom again. He never got to tell it bye.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our family goals we made on New Years are still hung on our bedroom door. Those pieces of paper never saw divorce coming. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The idea of starting over, or partially starting over, doesn't feel exciting. The future makes me nervous. I'm not sure how I'll be able to trust anyone again. Being blindsided by someone you love does something to you that can't be easily undone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One thing I have to remind myself of is that it is early and things are still very raw and emotional. It is crucial that I focus on positives. Having Jack in my life to bring me so much joy is such a blessing. Also, having such supportive family and friends makes me feel sheltered in the middle of this storm. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-73678085798663233322014-10-01T19:09:00.001-05:002014-10-01T19:09:25.412-05:00Getting Focused<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When it feels like your life is unraveling around you it is really difficult to focus on the day to day life activities that we take for granted. They are simple tasks until the wind is taken out of your sails. Those simple tasks become trival and hard to focus on. Your main goal is just to make it through each day without falling apart and showing Jack as much love as possible. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since our separation my mind has been all over the place. I go from depressed, to "I can do this", to I'm making the best of the situation, and back to depressed. Right now I'm trying to get focused on our future. Even if that means making a list of simple tasks to do each day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I literally feel like if I sat down and wrote out my to do list I could fill out two pages and spend an hour doing it. Last night I couldn't sleep as everything whirled in my mind that needed to be done. The time has come for decisions to be made and progress to be made. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My first goal is to sit down and make that to do list. I need to get all of this out of my mind and onto paper. I need two lists-one for work and one for me. Once the lists are made then I need to number them by priority and rewrite them in order of importance. Then I need to start making daily to do lists and get my butt into gear. This single mama has gotta get it together regardless of how much I'm hurting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On a sidenote, I want to express my love, thanks, and appreciaiton to my blogging friends who have reached out to me. Your love, support, and prayers have given me more strength than I can express. </span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-83442092359768059812014-09-27T23:21:00.001-05:002014-09-27T23:21:15.015-05:00You Never Really Know a Person<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been hiding from my blog. It's so difficult even thinking about my current situation, let along actually putting it into words. Currently Jack and I are staying with my parents even though we still have our house 30 miles away. It's just easier having the support. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since the separation things between Jeremy and I have not gotten any better. In fact, they have gotten much worse. His sister called me to check on Jack and I and we started talking and she told me some things about Jeremy that were shocking. She thought I was aware of this information but in reality I had been lied to for over 3 years. Sorry that I have to be so vague but honestly it is too painful to write and I'm not sure if it is best to put it all out there, at least right now. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of the most difficult parts is that it wasn't very long ago that we were a couple who said I love you and meant it. Now it is just hurtful words and betrayal. He is living with a woman he use to work with. Although he and I will never be back together, it still hurts that he is probably enjoying the excitement of a new relationship. I, on the other hand, am in constant termoil about making the right decisions for myself and Jack. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Speaking of Jack, he is loving living with family. At my parents my sister, her husband, and my nephew also live there for now while there house is being built. The boys fight like brothers and they love each other like brothers. I love seeing their relationship grow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been doing my best to compile a list of things that I need to get done. Being in "take care of stuff" mode helps me to stay focused and not break down. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another difficult part is just knowing that this is just the start of a very long road. Although I have filed for divorce, the papers haven't been delivered yet and he has said he will not sign for them which means I will have to get a process server to deliver them by hand. Hopefully, the ball will start rolling faster and things can start settling down. I'm ready for a slow down. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My main goal is to make sure Jack is happy, healthy, and safe. He is my number one priority no matter what happens. I will always be thankful to Jeremy for the gift of Jack. Jack is such a blessing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope that no one who reads this blog is ever betrayed by someone they love. It is extremely difficult and when there is a child involved it makes it that much harder. Any prayers or nice thoughts are greatly appreciated. </span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-7249811481540280932014-09-05T22:43:00.002-05:002014-09-05T22:43:53.536-05:00I Support Facebook Fakeness<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How many times, even in a day, do we read a Facebook comment about someone complaining about people being fake on Facebook? I know I read them quite often. I've always been one who hated people who were fake. Now I support Facebook fakeness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is how I got to this realization.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let me start with I'm a school librarian. Because of that I guess I have a standard to uphold in public. We have a code of ethics that we have to follow. I'm not a Facebook person who posts all the time. I watch my language and make sure to not include any photos that aren't appropriate. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My humor can be sarcastic and a tad dark at times. Mostly sarcastic. There have been so many things that I have wanted to say on Facebook but have had to censor myself for the sake of the image. I didn't feel fake I just felt censored. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well apparently I slipped up and got called into the principal's office. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our principal talks really low and uses a lot of big words and a lot of words to get to what he is saying. I made out the word Facebook and then my mind starting racing thinking what could he be talking about. Then I caught the words "flipping off". It hit my gut. I felt shame and anger. I wanted to shout "really?" "It was a joke". Instead I said, "clearly I didn't do that and it was a joke". I added "I get it". I just wanted out of that room.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is what happened.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One morning last week I had posted a picture of Jack in his car seat asleep. I wrote something to the effect of I want to flip him off because he didn't sleep at night and now that I am driving to work he is sleeping. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Did I flip him off? Honestly, yes, but he was asleep and didn't see. It gave me a little laugh which was a good push to help me pep up a little. It was just a joke. I love my baby and mean no harm in any way to him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The principal told me that a parent called and said if I would do that to my child then what would I do to theirs. Really???? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From now on I totally support Facebook fakeness. Sometimes you just have to play the game and pretend that you don't have a sense of humor. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-38551813729325431512014-08-31T16:23:00.000-05:002014-08-31T16:23:47.061-05:00Big Moves<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wow this separation has not been easy on any of us. Thankfully Jack is young enough that he seems oblivious. I have been stressed to the max. My husband has used this time to live it up like he is single and has no children. I have been working and taking care of Jack. Saturday night Jack and I stayed at my parent's house so we would have people to watch the Razorback game with. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been dealing with massive headaches for weeks now so my mom agreed to keep Jack so I could sleep all I wanted to. When my phone died that night I didn't even bother charging it. All I wanted to do was sleep. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This morning Jeremy busts into the guest room. I promptly sit up and ask "what are you doing here?". He wants to know where my phone is so I explain that it is off and he says that he has been to our house and then came here to my parent's house to see Jack. Jack is taking an early nap so he waits around until Jack wakes up and I go take a bubble bath. Jeremy had told me that he had to work all weekend but he had lied and instead he whooped it up. I wasn't mad that he went out but angry that he didn't bother to see Jack in any of that time. Once Jack woke up, Jeremy stayed a whole maybe 45 minutes. He hasn't seen him in over a week and after 45 minutes he is done. It is just frustrating for a mom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On to bigger news. I've decided that Jack and I are going to move back in with my parents. It isn't ideal but we really need to save some money. Plus, I need the help. My sanity is at stake. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Currently my sister, her husband, and their child live with my parents while they are building a house but it should be finished in a month. I'm going to use this next month to organize and clean our place. We both have a lot of clothes that need to go. Plus, doesn't everyone have too much junk? We just need the essentials. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Off to start organizing! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-30663802747920160212014-08-27T05:57:00.001-05:002014-08-27T05:57:40.761-05:00Life as of Late<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Y'all know I like to keep it real around here so here goes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My husband moved out officially on Monday. Nothing official has been decided but we needed a break to figure things out. This was his idea and he is staying with a coworker at the time. Jack is with me. Honestly, it's hard to feel like too much as changed in the living situation because he was gone half the time at work anyways. I think what I miss the most is not being able to just call him up and just talk with him during the times I usually did. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We are getting along and my ultimate goal is to keep Jack's well being first. My second goal is that no matter what happens to try and stay out of the court system. Third to remember to be fair and reasonable at all times. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">School has also started back, and boy has it started back. It is very stressful right now and honestly it typically is this time of year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jack is in a new daycare room where they are starting to learn stuff. He is having some issues adjusting since he spent the whole summer with me but each day has gotten better. I love walking in and seeing how much of a big boy he has become. </span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBr1OJxzsSsD0sWnMxaphITgxJj5hp26qPyfV8pbZuXx32DlniZqYsiXPkuXej-Ax6Bm16Wv7k6hoOnAYgHnEqw3i5HgUVJgKAXvZBvbi3IY1NkVSqzGl4p_tA5T3WRXI8BT4WfEhbzrI/s1600/photo+(17).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBr1OJxzsSsD0sWnMxaphITgxJj5hp26qPyfV8pbZuXx32DlniZqYsiXPkuXej-Ax6Bm16Wv7k6hoOnAYgHnEqw3i5HgUVJgKAXvZBvbi3IY1NkVSqzGl4p_tA5T3WRXI8BT4WfEhbzrI/s1600/photo+(17).JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">First day of daycare 2014 (It was a nasty rainy day)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Obviously things are majorly stressful and chaotic around here but I'll do my best to keep you updated. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-91921939402743728322014-08-22T02:52:00.001-05:002014-08-22T02:52:21.039-05:00Secret Pal<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last school year I picked someone who is always so kind and is constantly doing for others and I would surprise her with all kinds of things from giftcards, candles, flowers, candy, girlie stuff, picture frames, basically anything I knew she would love. It was so much fun for me. It actually became a fun thing for the school because no one knew who was surprising her. Everyone had their guesses and it was so fun being so sneaky. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On the last day of school I revealed myself with a letter that I wrote her. Many people came to me and said I want to do Secret Pal next year. So boom right there I printed off a questionnaire and sent out an email. We drew names that very day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So far we are a week into school and so many teachers have gotten so many wonderful surprises. It just makes my heart so happy to see them spreading happiness. It is such a domino effect. When teachers are happy, we are better teachers. I can see this school year being one of the happiest. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Even if you don't work in a school you can still do Secret Pal. You can do it officially like we did this year or you can just surprise people you deem worthy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I wanted to share with you some cute Secret Pal ideas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Smores</span><br />
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<img alt="Oodles of simple but cute gift ideas -- neighbors, secret pals, teachers, etc." src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e4/79/f2/e479f21010e16fd3d94218d00814d587.jpg" /><br />
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Box of Sunshine Coke and candy<br />
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<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/23/60/f7/2360f781e2cd29d7ea7dfd4341f4f472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Box of Sunshine. Great for someone who is having a bad day!" border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/23/60/f7/2360f781e2cd29d7ea7dfd4341f4f472.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<img alt="soda with candy bars wrapped around, perfect for the teenage boy!!" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/0c/9c/84/0c9c84f3a595e18545e4bbafb086fd43.jpg" /><br />
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St. Patrick's Pay Birthday Cake<br />
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<img alt="St. Patrick's Day Teacher Gift" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/30/f0/c8/30f0c828cc73c66818a1c6c577bcda45.jpg" width="285" /> <img alt="Change the root beer to Pepsi and the snickers to M&M's" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/d2/44/0a/d2440a16ca53273e11c1a412af1a52ae.jpg" width="264" /><br />
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Fruity Gift Monagrammed pjmpkkn<br />
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<img alt="FINALLY, a non-candy way to say things! great ideas for parenting and printables for many things" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/4c/91/a2/4c91a268435ff930b4ca1e76108fcb7a.jpg" /> <img alt="cute painted pumpkin... Halloween Secret Pal gift :)" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/e8/28/24/e82824047a489b51daf491f288506ea9.jpg" width="266" /><br />
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Relaxing Basket Make your own lemonade<br />
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<img alt="spring break teacher gift basket" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/7d/c7/48/7dc74809dfcd326a55ef3ba0eeed841b.jpg" width="300" /> <img alt="DIY Lemonade Kit Hostess Gift. Clear glass pitcher, Lemonade recipe, Lemons, Pretty dish towel, Mixing spoon. Maybe add a baggie full of sugar tied with matching ribbon? I love this one!" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/be/0b/7a/be0b7a65e39018e3b5ba27472e7203eb.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope these pictures get your brain spinning and that you are able to brighten someone's dayl Giving has been so much fun and getting fun gifts just isn't alll that bad either. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-82749621161360158702014-08-13T22:11:00.002-05:002014-08-13T22:11:34.962-05:00That's Right, I'm Suppose to be a Blogger<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When life takes over, it really takes over. As summer comes to a close, and a new school year approaches things in my world have gotten a little hectic. Doesn't it for everyone this time of year? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm trying to soak up any extra time with Jack before he goes back to daycare life. Also as school is gearing up to start I've been gearing up also with professional development and getting the library together. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tomorrow is open house so I hope to use that time to get a few extra things done since as a librarian I really won't have a lot of parents coming by. I know I'll have some favorite kiddos coming in to say hi, which I am very much looking forward to. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So here are a few life lately updates:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Things between the husband and I have been great. Change your attitude and you really can change your world.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been giving a lot of thought as to how I want this school year to be different. I just haven't gotten a plan together yet. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My precious nephew Bennett turns 3 this weekend so we will be heading to a very festive Jake and the Neverland Pirates party on Saturday.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My house stays a mess because cleaning with Jack around is impossible.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Speaking of Jack, he has decided that wearing clothes or a diaper isn't for him anymore.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87dk5oGBny-ylhZ94E5dg69jPaj7cBJVoCQIoLbXMEej9Fb3boVQ_Ah5m70Qd-TGf-oD_26bbS3tHGTGmLgbKCzm_TlPSlFVoOotRvssv4X0IgXvoDd9tTMZyGldtaDvlfeydDPqvVAE/s1600/photo+1+(11).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87dk5oGBny-ylhZ94E5dg69jPaj7cBJVoCQIoLbXMEej9Fb3boVQ_Ah5m70Qd-TGf-oD_26bbS3tHGTGmLgbKCzm_TlPSlFVoOotRvssv4X0IgXvoDd9tTMZyGldtaDvlfeydDPqvVAE/s1600/photo+1+(11).JPG" /></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm so happy that I have the show Big Brother to watch because it brings me so much joy.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another show I'm surprised I enjoy is Satisfaction. From the previews you would think it is all sex but it really isn't. There is more sex on General Hospital than this show. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm so ready for some football to start. College football makes my Saturdays. I have got to get myself to Fayetteville at least once this season. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Things will continue to be slow around here as our home gets use to a new routine. Another reason is because one issue between my husband and I was my computer use when he was home. Basically he is jealous of this computer and if I am going to be honest I would use the fact that he was home to run off and get some alone time with the computer. Instead I need to use the fact that he is home for a few days as family time. See old dogs can learn new tricks!</span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-58379561504301521272014-07-23T06:00:00.000-05:002014-07-23T06:00:09.940-05:00My Marriage Faults<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It is never easy to take a look at yourself and face-up to your own faults. Anytime that anyone points out something negative or critical about me I go straight for the defensive. Once you end up with your butt in couples therapy you better start looking at yourself. I'm not one who thinks it's all just him or just me. So far here is what I've come up with about myself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1) Not communicating expectations.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">He can't read my mind and I need to start just saying "can you take Jack for a little while because I need a nap". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">2) Keeping score.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh my memory is good when it comes to all the things I do right and all the things he does wrong. Why do I do this when it is not helpful at all? Well it makes for good ammunition. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">3) Having to be right.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My dear husband can be well, flakey. Even when he says something wrong and I know what he means I still feel the need to point out what he did wrong. Not only is it mean but pointless. I know it bothers him so why should I hurt him over nothing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">4) Too much fluff in the beginning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Boy oh boy was I The Pioneer Woman when we started out. I cooked and kept house like a good southern woman. Well, you know what, that shit gets old. He expected it and it was a lot of work. When Jack came it got even too difficult. I tried to keep up with it but I failed. Now I don't feel like doing it all. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">5) Losing my playful side.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We use to have a lot of fun. We were always so silly and had inside jokes. The more issues and responsibilities took over the less we giggled.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">6) Has to be my way.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My way isn't the only way and I need to face it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">7) Letting him by.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">At the start of our relationship when he did or said something I didn't like I wouldn't say anything. I harbored those feelings and then resentment built. It is things that he would have easily changed but I didn't say anything. He has no problem saying "hey could you make sure to do this for now on" so I should also. It's little things to make the other happy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">8) Not enough communication.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Guilty! Jeremy is not a good listener so I stopped communicating. What I should have done is say "can you turn the tv off and listen" but I just stopped talking. Jeremy works away for days at a time so it makes talking not so easy. He is really bad at listening and talking over the phone so one thing I had to learn was to not talk "big stuff" over the phone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">9) Not fighting fair.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I know Jeremy's buttons and boy can I push them when I want to. When he makes me really mad I can get him just as mad by saying just the right thing. Plus, remember that great memory, well I love to throw all the things I've done right at him and all the things he did wrong. His memory stinks so he always gets frustrated. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That wasn't an easy post to write. It really forced myself to see my faults in words and not just beating inside my head. I think knowing what the issues are is a great way to work past things and to learn to be a better wife. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think what I need to learn more than anything is to stop and use that great memory of mine to remember the feelings I had at the beginning when we were falling in love. I believe it is important to be aware of all the great things he does for us and what great qualities he has. It is often too easy to look at the faults of someone else instead of looking at yourself. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-4159267262323837932014-07-21T12:05:00.000-05:002014-07-21T12:05:00.091-05:00Couples Therapy Round One<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It is pretty taboo to talk about your marriage problems on a blog. However, after giving it a lot of thought and talking it over with my husband I've decided to share. It was always my goal to share the ups and downs of motherhood and marriage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Let me start off with that I am very proud of my husband. Not a lot of husbands are open to therapy so the fact that he went is admirable. Two, he didn't put on a show for the Dr. R. He was honest. I'll admit that I was worried that in front of the male doctor that he might become prideful and hide some of our faults. He didn't and I thanked him for doing so. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This session was all about communication. The doctor's point was that no one can make you feel a certain way. He made us each say something that the other did that made us feel angry. He then had us imagine if that same thing was said to someone else. Would they necessarily feel the same way? No! There is something within ourselves that causes us to set off by what the other one said. Once we can figure out why and also openly communicate what those things are we can fix those. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Our homework was to sit down for 15 minutes twice a week and just communicate. We had to say one thing we appreciate about the other person and one thing we regret. It went great the first time. So far, so good. We go back in two weeks. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-10063287032210752102014-07-18T11:00:00.000-05:002014-07-18T11:00:43.438-05:00Motherhood Is Not Black and White <span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When we start our day it always starts with snuggles and sugars. I'm lucky that Jack likes to wake up slowly while holding on to Mama. I get a glorious 10-15 of nice quiet loving time where he lets me hold him. He is my baby in those moments. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The other morning Jack went and grabbed some Goldfish crackers and jumped on the couch to eat them and watch tv. He looked so grown like a big boy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I had to snap a picture of this moment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">He was being so well behaved that I went into the kitchen and started doing dishes. After a few minutes I looked around the corner to check on Jack and he was no longer on the couch.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I heard him in his room so I made my way down the hallway. Here is what I saw.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The sweet moment had passed and there was the little boy I knew and loved. Always keeping us on our toys. I said "You need to pick those crackers up" and he looked right at me and said "NO!". </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The child barely says anything but he can answer no. I can only shake my head. What are we going to do with this child? We call him Stitch (like from Lilo and Stitch). He tends to destroy everything around him. He is what people like to say "all boy". </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Luckily I have captured moments that remind me of great times.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-54781143830095261102014-07-16T01:12:00.000-05:002014-07-16T01:12:00.570-05:00My Favorite FREE Printables<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love printables and when they are free....even better! I'm going to share with you a few of my favorites but if you want to check them all out you can view them on my Pinterest board by clicking <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/aprichards123/printables/" target="_blank">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1. Nursery prints can get super expensive so when you can find some super cute ones that are also free then you know you have found an amazing hardworking blogger. Katie from View From the Fridge had a guest blogger share these <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/aprichards123/printables/" target="_blank">adorable nursery prints</a> for free. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">2. Jen from Tatertots and Jello shared <a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2014/04/enjoy-little-things-free-spring-printable.html#bJKiSfVDAlykUZSS.32" target="_blank">this sweet print</a> that would look great on a desk or in your kitchen, well basically anywhere.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">3. I just love a fun music quote that brightens a room like <a href="http://thejacobsclan.blogspot.com/2013/09/whip-it-good-and-other-news.html" target="_blank">this one </a>from Leslie at the Jacob's Clan. </span></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-HqhE04EfE_qyYVJApJGdPFbibE0f0wG_ks8N96nWluD_aYV7Hx9kwl5Gk6A7BFXA1MUEQa924IThykCNVmybjh6JEj631VsjLJdVCYSkT8sggcMrtO7vPjU8pEUATdLchxgARZVaDQKK/s400/Whip+it+No+Texture.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">4. Alli at Cupcake Diaries shared <a href="http://www.cupcakediariesblog.com/2013/05/free-lets-eat-kitchen-printable-4-colors.html" target="_blank">this free print</a>. Can you tell I love kitchen printables? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">5. I put <a href="http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2011/05/filler-print.html" target="_blank">this print</a> in a frame and gave it as part of a housewarming gift. </span></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbhP5dnyuLVexcgrhtHwov-1c3yCxuSCW_e6aIs1bnQaE3hrpt6A2VvRs3Cb7gwEKRG-3T9jpzEotMY4ip4juxNIRDh2Zl9U-lGznQvCAjQdAZnnT5bQ8JZB7kzWqNueTLhi_PwFezvAw/s400/IMG_0652edit.jpg" width="266" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">6. A baby shower can get expensive but with these free baby shower <a href="http://howtonestforless.com/2013/07/09/you-are-my-sunshine-baby-shower-printables/" target="_blank">printables</a> you will save a ton.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> </span><img alt="chevron baby shower invitation" height="400" src="http://howtonestforless.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/chevron-baby-shower-invitation.jpg" width="285" /></div>
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7. <span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A good reminder sitting on your desk just adds a special touch. Over at Sweet Bella Roos you will find <a href="http://www.sweetbellaroos.com/2014/05/17/i-can-do-hard-things-printable/" target="_blank">this inspirational print</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">8. I love Shannon's site Technology Rocks. Not only does she have amazing technology information but her printables are lovely. Here is one of my <a href="http://www.technologyrocksseriously.com/2014/02/random-acts-of-kindness-week-sweet-signs.html#.U8TDQJRX-uY" target="_blank">favorites</a>. I love a pop of color!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">9. Oh how I love a family binder. Those things can get expensive but with <a href="http://secondchancetodream.com/2013/12/free-printable-planner-in-two-colors.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+secondchancetodream/tJCc+Second+Chance+to+Dream" target="_blank">these printables</a> you can create one for free. </span></div>
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<img alt="Second Chance to Dream Free Printable Planner in two colors #freeprintables #calendar #menuplanning" height="400" src="http://secondchancetodream.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Printable+Planner.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">10. Subway art is so cute! I have a frame that I change out monthly. I also used them to make gifts. Christmas is my fav holiday so I especially love <a href="http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2010/12/subway-art-update.html" target="_blank">this print</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I hope you love these prints as much as I do!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-77765436560830537102014-07-15T05:30:00.000-05:002014-07-15T05:30:01.371-05:00Why I Am Amazing<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Ladies, too many times we are super hard on ourselves. It's kinda what we do-bad mouth ourselves. Well you know sometimes we need to brag on ourselves because let's face it, we are pretty awesome. I'll start by giving you 5 things I love about being me!</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1. My eyes are beautiful-gosh it does feel weird saying that about myself. I love getting compliments on my eyes. Who doesn't love compliments? Speaking of compliments, we ladies need to start taking them instead of blowing them off. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">2. My hair curls really well. My sister has super straight hair which will not hold a curl and I have the opposite problem. If all else fails I can always curl my hair and it looks great.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">3. I have good skin. I was one of the lucky teenagers who didn't go through an awful acne stage. Other than a pimple here and there I am blemish free. I don't have a face care plan and rarely take off my make-up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">4. I can organize the shit out of something. Even as a young child and we were going to have a sleepover I would make a plan with sections and columns. I would write it over and over, plus decorate it, until it was perfect. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">5. I'm a great teacher. Of course, I will always have areas I want to improve on but overall I think I rock at my job. I love my students and honestly care about them. Yes, I teach them stuff too but I think what I'm mostly great at is being in tune with my student's lives and feelings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What is something that makes you so fabulous? I would love to hear! </span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-90237892169878864592014-07-14T20:40:00.004-05:002014-07-14T20:40:24.595-05:00Pea Pickin' Good Time<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thursday Jeremy and I made a local discovery that has paid off big time. I knew Monticello had a Splash Pad but I wasn't sure about the location or what to expect. We decided to ask about it, found where it is, and were pleasantly surprised. It was perfect for Jack. He had such a great time that we went 3 days in a row. It is safe, fun, and free!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since Jeremy worked this weekend, Jack and I headed to my parents to hang with family. One of the big things we were able to do is picked peas and butter beans. We sat at a picnic table with a huge fan facing us under a shade tree. It was many hours of talking and picking as my Dad brought us the plants. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jack cracks me up with his love with putting a blanket around his head. No matter what he is doing, if he can, he is going to find a blanket and wrap it around his head. It just makes him laugh and us too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today I ventured out into the real world and went to a teacher workshop. Great workshops always get me pumped about my job. I'm not ready for summer to be over yet though. I have a lot more things I want to get done first but I will say this workshop did get me a little excited about a new school year.</span><br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-74854041925969912982014-07-10T11:55:00.002-05:002014-07-10T11:55:29.323-05:00I LOVE Surprises!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday I got a box in the mail. I wasn't expecting anything so it was even better. I opened it up and Tabitha from <a href="http://ahundredtinywishes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Hundred Tiny Wishes</a> had sent me a beautiful personalize wine glass. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you would love your own then check out Tabitha's Etsy shop by clicking <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/tinywishescreations" target="_blank">here</a>. Not only does she have awesome wine glasses but beautiful jewelry as well. How sweet was it for her to send me my own wine glass just for being her friend and number one fan? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And just because he is cute...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He is always walking around with a blanket around his head. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">His Daddy dressed him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-87589495650403956662014-07-09T05:30:00.000-05:002014-07-09T05:30:02.387-05:00Summer Mornings <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jack wakes up with the energy of 10 little boys. My goal each day is to wake up before he does because I have to try and get ahead of him. When I go in his room he is always jumping up and down and running from one end to the other. I do love how happy he is when he wakes up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After I get him out of his bed and change his diaper, it is time for breakfast. He loves sausage so I bought a package of pre-cooked and all I have to do is heat it up. With that I add toast, a biscuit, French toast sticks, pancakes, or muffins. Of course, he has to have his milk and sometimes I make that chocolate. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After he makes a huge mess (he does with every single meal), I clean him up and set him loose. If Charlie is on the couch he always heads right towards him. He loves Charlie but Charlie is scared to death of him. Jack loves to <strike>try</strike> lay his head on Charlie. I love that he does that because that is something he got from me. I will lay my head in Jack's lap sometimes while he plays with my hair and watches tv. I can't seem to keep Jack from pulling Charlie's tail. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next, we do some type of educational activity. His favorite right now is letter magnets on a cookie sheet. I usually can keep his attention for about 20 minutes before he is ready to destroy his bedroom. I let him play on his own while I clean up his breakfast mess and eat something myself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jack will usually stay in his room and play. I join him for some free play after I get a few things done. He is really into blocks right now. We will then watch some Super Why which I believe is a great cartoon that teaches children. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Around 11 am it is nap time! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am enjoying these slow summer mornings of baby hugs, kisses, and messes.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-51665721780916385622014-07-08T07:00:00.000-05:002014-07-08T07:00:08.856-05:00Getting It Together <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have you ever felt like life has taken over the person you want to be? Sometimes days roll onto each other and snowball and before you know it things feel out of control. You may feel like it is impossible to get a grip on things and take control. Today I'm here to give you a few tips on how to get back on top of things in your life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Make a top 5. Sit down and write 5 things that would make you happy if they were present in your life. These may be objects or just feelings. Be as specific as possible. In my own life I would write "do more activities as a family". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Stop and think. If life has gotten chaotic you probably don't have a lot of time but do what you can to give yourself about 15 minutes to just stop and think about what is going on. If you can't see how things got away from you then you might not can take back control. Think about what gives you the most anxiety and what gives you the most clarity. For me I would say "The thing that gives me a lot of anxiety is when I don't stay on top of our finances and what brings me clarity is having the house cleaned up". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Set a routine. You may not can have a morning and night routine right away. It is actually harder than you think. Pick one and write out how you want that routine to go. Practice it. Tweak it until it works for your family. It will make you feel a sense of peace. Our nights need serious work done. If we had a more set routine I know it would be easier on Jack and all of us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Focus on you. When you take care of you then you take care of your world so much better. I'm just gonna say it-you aren't gonna start being a health nut overnight. Just pick one simple thing to add or take away from your life that adds to the quality of your life. It will make you feel better just knowing that you are doing something good for yourself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Short term goals. What are the most important things to do each day? I can sit down each day and write out a to do list a mile long, but that is only gonna bring me down when I don't make a dent in it. The best thing to do is make a list no longer than 10 things that are most important to get done. You can make this list at night or first thing in the morning. For me, it is easier to do at night because our mornings are just too crazy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Take care of the 5 F's. Finance, Family, Fun, Faith, and Fitness are the 5 F's that when are in order will give you back a feeling of control. How those five F's are "taken care of" depends on you and your family. Sit down and define how each one would look in your perfect world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Do for others. When your world feels out of control you begin to get really self-absorbed because well everything just seems to be going all wrong for you. While you are trying to get things back on track do something nice for someone else each day. Not only will it make you feel great about yourself but it will also give you some perspective. Plus, some good karma couldn't hurt!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. Compete. Give yourself that pep talk and imagine your life back in order. Play music that makes you feel that you are working to overcome a difficult time. Remind yourself daily that you are a fighter and picture yourself happy. Compete with yourself to be happy. You are aiming for the ultimate prize.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope these tips help you if you ever feel like your life needs reeled in some. The feeling that you get when your life feels together is so peaceful and something worth working towards. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-87317890005167694632014-07-07T19:23:00.000-05:002014-07-07T19:23:38.412-05:00Boys Will Be Boys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a beautiful 4th here in Arkansas! We set up the pool early that morning and gave it a few hours to let the sun heat it up before we let the boys out. You can see by the picture below that they had a big time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Boys are just different creatures. Well I say that based on my experience with Jack. He is all boy. Very rough and tough with some dirt rubbed in. Now when he really gets hurt or gets sleepy he wants his Mama. When he gets all snuggled in on me and holds on tight, that is my favorite. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm also so lucky to have an amazing nephew. My goal is for Jack and Bennett to have a brotherly bond. More than likely Jack will not have a sibling so I want Bennett to be an older brother to Jack. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bennett will be 3 next month and he is so smart. He knows all his letters, can count to 40, can write some letters, knows every shape, knows concepts that some kindergartners don't know, and he can draw really well. The best thing is that he loves to learn. He will sit for a long time and let you teach him. Jack will not sit down for 2 minutes but he has been recognizing letters. He says some letters even though it isn't the right one. When words come on the tv he will go point and say o, a, s. It is so cute. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mainly they hit each other. Bennett got a set of plastic golf clubs and they have yet to hit a ball but they have hit each other lots of times and the window several times. Needless to say the clubs have been hidden. How do they come up with just walking up to each other and knocking the other in the head with a golf club? Just out of nowhere. The other pushes him down and then they laugh. What the hell? Girls would never do that. </span></div>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-18558352831258365312014-07-03T13:37:00.000-05:002014-07-03T13:37:00.018-05:00Having It All<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today I read a thought provoking post on Jessica's blog <a href="http://the-newly.blogspot.com/2014/07/mothers-cant-have-it-all.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheNewly+%28The+Newly...%29" target="_blank">The Newly </a>. Her opinion is that mothers can't have it all. It got me to thinking about my own opinion on the subject. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Honestly, I'm not sure how I feel about the subject because I'm not sure what my definition of <i>all</i> really is. What I do know is that <i>all</i> is specific to the person and I believe it is fluid, always changing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I could define <i>all</i> as having a career and being a mother. I believe that is what Jessica was figuring out. Once you become a mother you have a primal urge to be with your baby so putting them in daycare feels unnatural. I think that last sentence could be a rock solid fact. For some, being a full time mother fulfills them completely and for others a nagging feeling will show up making them question if they are doing the right thing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As a teacher, I sort of get the best of both worlds. I have my summers to be a full time mom and get to enjoy my career during the school year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do I feel like I have it <i>all</i>?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Not even close. Why? For me, having it <i>all</i> is not just about being a mother and having a career. My <i>all </i>is much bigger and I'm sure it is for Jessica and for every mother in the world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In this moment having it <i>all</i> means:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//Jack being healthy and happy</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//Jeremy being healthy and happy</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//a thriving career</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//a clean and organized home</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//feeling energized</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//fulfilling my creative side</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//good relationships with family and friends</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//feeling comfortable in my body</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//having a meaningful relationship with God</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">//making and constantly striving for my goals</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7014600640870800993.post-82467716567379226972014-07-02T06:23:00.001-05:002014-07-02T06:23:29.562-05:00A Trip To Wal-Mart<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's the middle of the night, my family is tucked into their beds happily sleeping. I'm awake with another bout of insomnia. As much as I should be wishing for sleep I am enjoying this wonderful time. I know my family is safe, I'm enjoying this quiet time, and the world feels so still. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday I got my stitches taken out. Yay! After my appointment, Jeremy and I went to Wal-Mart to get my prescriptions. While waiting in line to drop it off an older man stood behind us. The line wasn't moving so he started making small talk with us. He first commented on the high prices of the items near-by. He started talking our heads off. I tried to just ignore him (so basically I threw my husband to him). I'm such a good wife! I heard him quoting scripture. I'm not saying that is a bad thing but it does come off a little odd when you are just standing in line for a few minutes. I wasn't listening to everything he was saying but I knew he had said some Bible verses. The more he talked the closer he got to my husband and the lower he talked. I stood to the side and pushed the line along with my mind. Jeremy kept giving me the "save me" look. Finally, we were able to escape. Jeremy shared with me what the man had been saying. He was saying very racist comments. He also said that men should not listen to women. All in all it was an odd situation and we were both happy to get away from that man. You may walk around wearing your Jesus shirt and preaching scripture but when your heart is dark.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When it was time to pick my medicine up we got in the long line. In front of us was a young adult boy who looked (and smelled) like he had been working hard. He complained about the long line along with the rest of us. His gal with baby in buggy came up checking on things. My hubby (with the face of someone who apparently likes to talk to strangers) strikes up a conversation with this guy. I leave them to their chatting. Once we are in the car Jeremy tells me that their baby has RSV and they were picking up his medicine but they couldn't afford it all. My husband (who is a paramedic) was telling him what was the must have things and also giving him some options of ways to help his son. Jeremy felt bad for the couple and mostly the baby so he wanted to inform them with places that could assist them quickly since the baby clearly needed all of the medication but they couldn't afford it all. If we had the money we would have paid for the medicine but with my own medical stuff money has been tight. I pray they took my husband's words and used them wisely. I pray that baby gets well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh how a trip to Wal-Mart can enlighten you to things. I did walk away with Jack a cute pajama set for $4.97, a package of diapers, and a get well card for a dear friend. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for stopping by today and have a blessed day!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2