I am worn out! I walked for an hour this morning pushing Katie in the stroller while Chip rode his bike. Then tonight I walked another 45 minutes with my sister, Jean, and her family. I have that wonderful tired, almost achy feeling. In between I was busy doing laundry, cleaning the house, and unpacking from our trip to Greenville.
There are times I fall into bed mentally or emotionally exhausted and sleep feels like a necessary, not happy, escape. Nights like this, though, I fall into bed with the physical exhaustion that comes with more than typical exercise, and drifting off to sleep feels happy and blissful.
Blessing #83, July 19, 2010
I am blessed that I am fit enough to exercise. Exercise makes everything in my mind and body better and stronger. I have had knee surgeries, barely escaped back surgery, and I still take my able body for granted. Well, today I am acknowledging this gift.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
A Must Read Author
In college in one of my religion classes (I tried to squeeze in several which was pretty tough as a science major) I was introduced to the work of Marcus Borg. My first read was Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time. I've read a few of his books, but this one I read twice. I don't do that very often.
Anyway, the other day while Katie was at a Tea Party, Chip and I went to the library to kill some time and save some money. He checked out a book, I picked a few out for Katie, and then stumbled upon a new one by Borg. A novel! So far, I am hooked.
July 18, 2010 Blessing #82
I am thankful for books that make me think and challenge my faith and assumptions. I am also so thankful for summer-because it is my time for reading!
Anyway, the other day while Katie was at a Tea Party, Chip and I went to the library to kill some time and save some money. He checked out a book, I picked a few out for Katie, and then stumbled upon a new one by Borg. A novel! So far, I am hooked.
July 18, 2010 Blessing #82
I am thankful for books that make me think and challenge my faith and assumptions. I am also so thankful for summer-because it is my time for reading!
Down the Rabbit Hole
Still writing from Greenville-and it's been a late night. I think it is the first time I haven't made the midnight deadline, but then again, we did sort of fall into a time warp.
After we watched the free performance of The Merry Wives of Windsor in the park, the kids wanted to explore. They put their feet in the Reedy River, walked through downtown and then we all 3 made a wish in a downtown fountain. Almost immediately after the trolley pulled up, and we hopped on board (also free, this city is fabulous!). We were greeted with a round of applause, which should have served as the signal that we were in for a treat.
The temperature was perfect, the breeze felt great, my kids were in awe of riding a real trolley, and the other passengers were in some kind of happy trance. At first I thought they must be a large group because they were cheering and waving at folks in unison, but as we continued on our loop it became clear that they were just turning the trolley ride into a party. Everyone was laughing and singing to the music, waving at all the folks on the street, and radiating a zest for life.
When the ride was over, we all said a version of, "That was the neatest thing ever," and I added, "I wonder if it is always like that?" Cary said, "It felt like that was all for us. It makes you wonder what the kids wished for in the fountain...maybe it was the trolley of youth!"
Blessing 81, July 17, 2010
Today I am thankful for seeing the wonder in my kids eyes when they rode the trolley. It was a blessing being in a vehicle full of happy people-living in the moment and sharing that happiness. Maybe it was just for us....
After we watched the free performance of The Merry Wives of Windsor in the park, the kids wanted to explore. They put their feet in the Reedy River, walked through downtown and then we all 3 made a wish in a downtown fountain. Almost immediately after the trolley pulled up, and we hopped on board (also free, this city is fabulous!). We were greeted with a round of applause, which should have served as the signal that we were in for a treat.
The temperature was perfect, the breeze felt great, my kids were in awe of riding a real trolley, and the other passengers were in some kind of happy trance. At first I thought they must be a large group because they were cheering and waving at folks in unison, but as we continued on our loop it became clear that they were just turning the trolley ride into a party. Everyone was laughing and singing to the music, waving at all the folks on the street, and radiating a zest for life.
When the ride was over, we all said a version of, "That was the neatest thing ever," and I added, "I wonder if it is always like that?" Cary said, "It felt like that was all for us. It makes you wonder what the kids wished for in the fountain...maybe it was the trolley of youth!"
Blessing 81, July 17, 2010
Today I am thankful for seeing the wonder in my kids eyes when they rode the trolley. It was a blessing being in a vehicle full of happy people-living in the moment and sharing that happiness. Maybe it was just for us....
Friday, July 16, 2010
Pride and Prejudice
The kids and I are in Greenville, SC visiting my sister, Cary. We have the best time together, and it's hard for folks to tell where my laughter stops and hers begins. I have 4 sisters, and I wish we could all be together--but seeing each even one at a time is a blessing.
Anyway, tonight we went to Blockbuster to rent Pride and Prejudice, and we got an impromptu lecture from the man working the counter about picking up the "Pride, Prejudice and Zombies" book as a great vacation read. Cary and I were stifling laughs the whole time. He explained that the book was nearly 90% accurate to the original except that Jane and Lizzie were trained as super ninja zombie assassins, and every now and then in the story zombies appear that need to be "Handled." We will laugh about this forever! (Jane Austen probably won't however!)
Blessing #80, July 16, 2010
I am thankful for the jokes and memories that I share with my loved ones. It is wonderful that I have time to steal away and hang with my sister for a weekend.
Anyway, tonight we went to Blockbuster to rent Pride and Prejudice, and we got an impromptu lecture from the man working the counter about picking up the "Pride, Prejudice and Zombies" book as a great vacation read. Cary and I were stifling laughs the whole time. He explained that the book was nearly 90% accurate to the original except that Jane and Lizzie were trained as super ninja zombie assassins, and every now and then in the story zombies appear that need to be "Handled." We will laugh about this forever! (Jane Austen probably won't however!)
Blessing #80, July 16, 2010
I am thankful for the jokes and memories that I share with my loved ones. It is wonderful that I have time to steal away and hang with my sister for a weekend.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
8th grade dance dress shopping to Pool Snack Packing
A good friend is a connection to life - a tie to the past, a road to the future, the key to sanity in a totally insane world. ~Lois Wyse
What a day! My best friend of 20 years, Heather, came today and brought her 2 precious children. We swam and then let the kids play at the house. There was a moment when I looked at her, and thought "how did we go from picking out 8th grade dance dresses with our Moms to packing cheese sticks and juice boxes for the pool?" Seems like yesterday we were school girls giggling over boys and here we are grown up ladies with careers and families.
But what is amazing is that through all the chapters of life we've experienced so far, we have remained best friends. We played different sports, attended different colleges, married at different times and live 1 hour apart. Still, there is a level of comfort and familiarity that comes from our shared history and memories, and it is priceless.
Blessing #79, July 15, 2010
I am thankful for my friendship with Heather. It is wonderful to have a friend who knows me so well and has known me for so long that our conversations are nearly effortless. She is always honest with me and willing to listen. I can remember a song from Girls Scouts: "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other is Gold." I get it now.
What a day! My best friend of 20 years, Heather, came today and brought her 2 precious children. We swam and then let the kids play at the house. There was a moment when I looked at her, and thought "how did we go from picking out 8th grade dance dresses with our Moms to packing cheese sticks and juice boxes for the pool?" Seems like yesterday we were school girls giggling over boys and here we are grown up ladies with careers and families.
But what is amazing is that through all the chapters of life we've experienced so far, we have remained best friends. We played different sports, attended different colleges, married at different times and live 1 hour apart. Still, there is a level of comfort and familiarity that comes from our shared history and memories, and it is priceless.
Blessing #79, July 15, 2010
I am thankful for my friendship with Heather. It is wonderful to have a friend who knows me so well and has known me for so long that our conversations are nearly effortless. She is always honest with me and willing to listen. I can remember a song from Girls Scouts: "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other is Gold." I get it now.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Children Counting Blessings
As I was tucking them in, I asked my children, "What do you think Mommy should write about tonight as a blessing?" Chip said, "Legs for walking and all the rest of your body." Katie said, "you and our family and Jakey and Jilly (dog and mouse respectively)." Chip piped up again with "a roof over your head." We finished up talking about our exciting plans for tomorrow--my best friend from high school is coming with her 2 kids-one of them is a new baby--and my kids can't wait. As I turned to head downstairs, thinking the conversation over, Chip added, "Babies, because, Mom ,everytime a baby is born then it can make the world better, just like you say Katie and I do."
So, the blessing tonight is obvious, right?
Blessing #78, July 14, 2010
I am thankful that this exercise has started daily conversations about the blessings in our lives. Counting blessings has become part of the culture in the Scott family. I have always told my children that they are gifts from God-not just to Mommy and Daddy, but the world-and I am glad they hear me and believe me, and I'm glad that they understand that all children are gifts, not just the ones in our family.
So, the blessing tonight is obvious, right?
Blessing #78, July 14, 2010
I am thankful that this exercise has started daily conversations about the blessings in our lives. Counting blessings has become part of the culture in the Scott family. I have always told my children that they are gifts from God-not just to Mommy and Daddy, but the world-and I am glad they hear me and believe me, and I'm glad that they understand that all children are gifts, not just the ones in our family.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Once at a A Hardees in Oakwood Georgia
You know with a title like that, this is going to be good.
My major professor, Steve Oliver, told me and a classroom full of student teachers a fabulous story one Friday 5 years ago. I was pregnant with my youngest, working as his TA, and that day I was ready to go home. I can remember looking at my swollen ankles thinking, "he's going to tell a story now?"
But it was great. He was the 3rd person in line to order at Hardees. The cashier finished up with her customer, turned, and knocked all the cups out of the dispenser. They scattered all over the floor. She picked them up, restacked them, and put them back into the dispenser. She looked up at the new customer (so the guy in front of Steve), and says, "May I take your order?" The customer says, "I would like to know if I'm going to get a clean cup."
The beauty of the story comes in Steve's interpretation. That interpretation changed forever the way I think about my work on a daily basis. Steve said, "That girl forgot that her job was to provide food to a customer in a safe and clean way. She was operating as if her job was to move through the line." He went on to describe how teachers get lost in a similar place-working to get the kids from 1st grade to 2nd grade or 3rd period to 4th period instead of working to empower them to grow, think independently, and solve problems.
I would be lying if I said that didn't happen to me sometimes-albeit not nearly as much now as when I was a novice. I go in with huge aspirations for what my kids will learn or discover, and then that grand vision gets lost in the minutia of the day. I'd wager most if not all teachers find themselves losing focus sometimes. Maybe it is taking attendance, running copies, grading homework, or washing the glassware that seems to be the most important task when in fact it should be assessing and planning the students' learning.
When I get focused on all the wrong things, I think about this story and I get my eye back on the ball.
July 13, 2010 Blessing # 77
Today I am thankful for Steve and the wisdom he brings into my life. That story was a transformative blessing in my life. It really resonated with me, and his interpretation has a wisdom that works beyond teaching. I think of that story in my work and my parenting, and everytime it prompts to me to re-energize and reprioritize.
My major professor, Steve Oliver, told me and a classroom full of student teachers a fabulous story one Friday 5 years ago. I was pregnant with my youngest, working as his TA, and that day I was ready to go home. I can remember looking at my swollen ankles thinking, "he's going to tell a story now?"
But it was great. He was the 3rd person in line to order at Hardees. The cashier finished up with her customer, turned, and knocked all the cups out of the dispenser. They scattered all over the floor. She picked them up, restacked them, and put them back into the dispenser. She looked up at the new customer (so the guy in front of Steve), and says, "May I take your order?" The customer says, "I would like to know if I'm going to get a clean cup."
The beauty of the story comes in Steve's interpretation. That interpretation changed forever the way I think about my work on a daily basis. Steve said, "That girl forgot that her job was to provide food to a customer in a safe and clean way. She was operating as if her job was to move through the line." He went on to describe how teachers get lost in a similar place-working to get the kids from 1st grade to 2nd grade or 3rd period to 4th period instead of working to empower them to grow, think independently, and solve problems.
I would be lying if I said that didn't happen to me sometimes-albeit not nearly as much now as when I was a novice. I go in with huge aspirations for what my kids will learn or discover, and then that grand vision gets lost in the minutia of the day. I'd wager most if not all teachers find themselves losing focus sometimes. Maybe it is taking attendance, running copies, grading homework, or washing the glassware that seems to be the most important task when in fact it should be assessing and planning the students' learning.
When I get focused on all the wrong things, I think about this story and I get my eye back on the ball.
July 13, 2010 Blessing # 77
Today I am thankful for Steve and the wisdom he brings into my life. That story was a transformative blessing in my life. It really resonated with me, and his interpretation has a wisdom that works beyond teaching. I think of that story in my work and my parenting, and everytime it prompts to me to re-energize and reprioritize.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Checking Things Off
Summer is wonderful for relaxation, but I find that when I do have things to do I'm not nearly as efficient as I am during the school year. Something about plenty of time leads me to think I can "do it all later." That's all well and good for a bit, but eventually my OCD kicks in and I've got to check things off my to do list.
So today that is what I did! I caught up on email, updated my calendar, scheduled appointments, and folded clothes. I planned a weekend visit to my sisters, a trip to Brunswick and Jekyll with my Mom, and a long overdue visit with a girl friend. Don't get me wrong, the list isn't clear yet, but I did make a lot of headway. Hopefully tomorrow I will have finally tackled the two parties I need to schedule and that pile of scrapbooking!
July 12, 2010 Blessing #76
Today I am thankful for the feeling that comes after getting out from under things to do, deadlines, etc. It is a feeling of relief and progress. Weirdly I think one reason it feels so good is because of the OCD that drives to me to finish in the first place, so today I am even thankful for my neurosis!
So today that is what I did! I caught up on email, updated my calendar, scheduled appointments, and folded clothes. I planned a weekend visit to my sisters, a trip to Brunswick and Jekyll with my Mom, and a long overdue visit with a girl friend. Don't get me wrong, the list isn't clear yet, but I did make a lot of headway. Hopefully tomorrow I will have finally tackled the two parties I need to schedule and that pile of scrapbooking!
July 12, 2010 Blessing #76
Today I am thankful for the feeling that comes after getting out from under things to do, deadlines, etc. It is a feeling of relief and progress. Weirdly I think one reason it feels so good is because of the OCD that drives to me to finish in the first place, so today I am even thankful for my neurosis!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Sun and Rain
I enjoy summer-the long, hot days, the trips to the pool, and the inevitable tans of my children. Still, as much as I love the heat and the sunshine, I do need a break from it. It's thundering outside now, and I am hearing the rain just begin to fall. I know the air will feel clean after the rain, and I will love how green and robust everything will look in the morning.
Blessing #75, July 10, 2010
The rain is a blessing. It brings relief from the heat, life to the vegetation, and freshness to the air. There is a wonderful balance in nature-and I must remember to never take it for granted.
Blessing #75, July 10, 2010
The rain is a blessing. It brings relief from the heat, life to the vegetation, and freshness to the air. There is a wonderful balance in nature-and I must remember to never take it for granted.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Famous Blood
Chip has been telling everyone that he and his Dad are related to Francis Scott Key. He is 100% convinced of this, and has even been caught explaining to those who are Scotts by marraige that they don't enjoy this famous blood. Well, we have no evidence that this is true, but I just love that Chip is so sure of himself. Rather than derail his fantasty Star-Spangled connection, I have just smiled and assured him that we are all held in the branches of one tree of life--and isn't it exciting that we have definietly breathed the Oxygen molecules breathed by famous Presidents, athletes, and even the dinosaurs.
You know, it could be worse. I convinced my class in elementary school that a monkey lived in our pasture, there was a whale in my bathtub, and I could speak to Unicorns.
Blessing #74, July 9, 2010
I am thankful that children refuse to limit themselves. Chip's imagination is so rich and so active-and it is a delight to watch it work.
You know, it could be worse. I convinced my class in elementary school that a monkey lived in our pasture, there was a whale in my bathtub, and I could speak to Unicorns.
Blessing #74, July 9, 2010
I am thankful that children refuse to limit themselves. Chip's imagination is so rich and so active-and it is a delight to watch it work.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Southern Summer
Our kids are spending the night with their cousins in Conyers. After I dropped them off, I headed back to Athens to meet Trey at the dollar movie for a matinee. When the heat index is over 100 degrees, there is nothing better than a "cold enough to hang meat" theater. We saw Robinhood with Russell Crowe. It was fair-a different take on a legend that has been told countless times.
The best part of the movie was when it was over. We came outside and it was overcast and had cooled drastically. I drove home with the windows down, and then walked for over an hour with my sister and her family. It was still humid, but it was cool enough to be outside and be active. That's what summer nights are supposed to feel like!
Blessing #73 July 9, 2010
I am thankful for cold movie theaters. I am thankful my sister lives around the corner. I am thankful for a summer evening without such oppressive heat and that I am able-bodied and can exercise.
The best part of the movie was when it was over. We came outside and it was overcast and had cooled drastically. I drove home with the windows down, and then walked for over an hour with my sister and her family. It was still humid, but it was cool enough to be outside and be active. That's what summer nights are supposed to feel like!
Blessing #73 July 9, 2010
I am thankful for cold movie theaters. I am thankful my sister lives around the corner. I am thankful for a summer evening without such oppressive heat and that I am able-bodied and can exercise.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Socks in the Spin Cycle
Tonight I went for a walk around the neighborhood. I really didn't want to go, especially by myself, so I tried to get Trey and the kids to go with me. I texted my sister and asked her to go, and then asked a few neighbors. There were no takers, but I knew I had to get moving.
Usually I love to walk solo, but this evening I had a lot on my mind and I just didn't want to deal with any of it. The worries ranged from soccer and ballet registration for my children to hungry children in Haiti and my ugly kitchen. You know I am out of balance when all of those seem of equal severity.
Anyway, I was looking for a distraction to keep from turning inward and grappling with anxieties, doubts, and fears. I did talk via phone to another sister during the first part of my walk, but there was no escaping some time for introspection.
My mind was whirling-I felt like ideas, worries, and to do list items were being tossed around like my children's socks in the spin cycle. They were whizzing by so fast that it became impossible to see where one sock stopped and the next began. In my washer, the tiniest socks are the biggest problems-sometimes they find their way out of the tub and into a pipe and then a perfectly good sock-and maybe a perfectly good washer are lost forever. (I realize this is a weird image, but I did have a long conversation this evening with a washer repairman, so I've just got laundry on the brain--work with me....) My thoughts are like that too--they whirl by so fast and if I can't clear my head to focus on them they disappear or morph into something unrecognizeable.
When my mind whirls, when I'm not sure which thought or worry to tackle, I pray. When I am anxious like this, I'm usually not sure what to pray, but I find that if I focus on a recitation-like the Lord's Prayer or the 23rd Psalm, everything in me resets. The frenzied activity stops, my breathing slows, and my anxiety lessens. It's like I go from being in the passenger seat of my mind to the driver's seat. It was like magic tonight. I left anxious and by the end of my walk and several Lord's Prayers, I was able to quiet my mind and listen to the crickets, watch the lightening bugs emerge and come to terms with the fact that though I may be in the driver's seat of my mind, I will never be in charge of everything else. Thank God for that.
Blessing #72, July 8, 2010
Tonight I remembered that even though I an over the top type A, OCD person I am just a person. I am thankful for my faith and I am blessed that it can quiet my mind and awaken me to the presence of the Divine. Then I can focus on Love-which I believe is the only thing that matters. I have so much Love in my life and everything else is just stuff.
Usually I love to walk solo, but this evening I had a lot on my mind and I just didn't want to deal with any of it. The worries ranged from soccer and ballet registration for my children to hungry children in Haiti and my ugly kitchen. You know I am out of balance when all of those seem of equal severity.
Anyway, I was looking for a distraction to keep from turning inward and grappling with anxieties, doubts, and fears. I did talk via phone to another sister during the first part of my walk, but there was no escaping some time for introspection.
My mind was whirling-I felt like ideas, worries, and to do list items were being tossed around like my children's socks in the spin cycle. They were whizzing by so fast that it became impossible to see where one sock stopped and the next began. In my washer, the tiniest socks are the biggest problems-sometimes they find their way out of the tub and into a pipe and then a perfectly good sock-and maybe a perfectly good washer are lost forever. (I realize this is a weird image, but I did have a long conversation this evening with a washer repairman, so I've just got laundry on the brain--work with me....) My thoughts are like that too--they whirl by so fast and if I can't clear my head to focus on them they disappear or morph into something unrecognizeable.
When my mind whirls, when I'm not sure which thought or worry to tackle, I pray. When I am anxious like this, I'm usually not sure what to pray, but I find that if I focus on a recitation-like the Lord's Prayer or the 23rd Psalm, everything in me resets. The frenzied activity stops, my breathing slows, and my anxiety lessens. It's like I go from being in the passenger seat of my mind to the driver's seat. It was like magic tonight. I left anxious and by the end of my walk and several Lord's Prayers, I was able to quiet my mind and listen to the crickets, watch the lightening bugs emerge and come to terms with the fact that though I may be in the driver's seat of my mind, I will never be in charge of everything else. Thank God for that.
Blessing #72, July 8, 2010
Tonight I remembered that even though I an over the top type A, OCD person I am just a person. I am thankful for my faith and I am blessed that it can quiet my mind and awaken me to the presence of the Divine. Then I can focus on Love-which I believe is the only thing that matters. I have so much Love in my life and everything else is just stuff.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Million Dollar Smile
My Dad frequently refers to my "million dollar smile." I realize to many this would seem an endearment, but Dad means it almost literally. (there is a similar expression about my leg, but I'll save it for later) I just have bad teeth. I've had root canals, extractions, and braces TWICE. I floss religiously, brush with $30 prescription toothpaste, and get check ups every 6 months. I guess I'm trying to make it clear that a lack of hygiene isn't the issue.
Chip, at 7, has already had 3 cavities. Katie hasn't had any, yet, but I am waiting to see history repeat itself in her little mouth. So, today, when they each got their teeth cleaned I was overjoyed they both got good reports. I also figured that the Dr. would tell me I needed to get Chip to an orthodontist, but he said so far so good in that arena.
So, no more dentist visits are necessary this summer, we aren't about to drop a ton of cash on fillings and braces, and my kids got super cute toys out of the treasure chest. It is so great to get good news when you are expecting bad.....I left the dentist office today flashing that "Million Dollar Smile"
Blessing #71 July 7, 2010
I am thankful for good news and dental care. We are so lucky that we can get our teeth cleaned, filled, and straightened and that we have access to products that improve and maintain our health. I am not kidding about the $30 toothpaste the kids and I use. We are so fortunate.
Chip, at 7, has already had 3 cavities. Katie hasn't had any, yet, but I am waiting to see history repeat itself in her little mouth. So, today, when they each got their teeth cleaned I was overjoyed they both got good reports. I also figured that the Dr. would tell me I needed to get Chip to an orthodontist, but he said so far so good in that arena.
So, no more dentist visits are necessary this summer, we aren't about to drop a ton of cash on fillings and braces, and my kids got super cute toys out of the treasure chest. It is so great to get good news when you are expecting bad.....I left the dentist office today flashing that "Million Dollar Smile"
Blessing #71 July 7, 2010
I am thankful for good news and dental care. We are so lucky that we can get our teeth cleaned, filled, and straightened and that we have access to products that improve and maintain our health. I am not kidding about the $30 toothpaste the kids and I use. We are so fortunate.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Check this out!
http://blessings365.blogspot.com/
I just stumbled upon another blogger with the same idea I had. Except, she's already finished. Same title and everything! I thought I was being so creative. No matter, I find it pretty inspiring that she blogged about 365 blessings. If she can do it, I can do it!
Trey was back to work today, so the kids and I settled back into our routine. We had a great breakfast together, and then headed out for a play date. My friend Mattie and her family are in our supper club, and 2 of her 3 kids match up with mine in age. It was great to catch up with her, and my kids had a blast. I think I am very fortunate that I have a few, good friends who challenge me to be my best. Mattee is a great listener, and she always encourages me to think in a new way. I'm not even sure she knows she is doing it, but she's a friend that has made me better.
We came home, rested a bit, and then conquered the very difficult Melissa and Doug Under the Sea Puzzle.
I know it's hard to imagine a giant kid-friendly floor puzzle is hard, but this one gets me everytime. The pieces are all a different shade of blue,and it is really hard to tell which is end is up. Today I was convinced I had the left border nearly complete, and then realized it was actually the right border upside down. I found myself and the kids were quite frustrated. I stood up and looked at the puzzle from a different direction, and then I saw it. All I needed was a little change of perspective. Then the kids and I had a great discussion about the value of looking at old problems in new ways.
Blessing #70, June 6, 2010
Today I am thankful for the surprise teaching moments. Sometimes it's in conversation with a friend and sometimes it's quality time with my kids. Today it came as we put together a floor puzzle-and I'm so glad we weren't watching TV or playing video games.
http://blessings365.blogspot.com/
I just stumbled upon another blogger with the same idea I had. Except, she's already finished. Same title and everything! I thought I was being so creative. No matter, I find it pretty inspiring that she blogged about 365 blessings. If she can do it, I can do it!
Trey was back to work today, so the kids and I settled back into our routine. We had a great breakfast together, and then headed out for a play date. My friend Mattie and her family are in our supper club, and 2 of her 3 kids match up with mine in age. It was great to catch up with her, and my kids had a blast. I think I am very fortunate that I have a few, good friends who challenge me to be my best. Mattee is a great listener, and she always encourages me to think in a new way. I'm not even sure she knows she is doing it, but she's a friend that has made me better.
We came home, rested a bit, and then conquered the very difficult Melissa and Doug Under the Sea Puzzle.
I know it's hard to imagine a giant kid-friendly floor puzzle is hard, but this one gets me everytime. The pieces are all a different shade of blue,and it is really hard to tell which is end is up. Today I was convinced I had the left border nearly complete, and then realized it was actually the right border upside down. I found myself and the kids were quite frustrated. I stood up and looked at the puzzle from a different direction, and then I saw it. All I needed was a little change of perspective. Then the kids and I had a great discussion about the value of looking at old problems in new ways.
Blessing #70, June 6, 2010
Today I am thankful for the surprise teaching moments. Sometimes it's in conversation with a friend and sometimes it's quality time with my kids. Today it came as we put together a floor puzzle-and I'm so glad we weren't watching TV or playing video games.
Monday, July 5, 2010
What took you so long?
Where to start? Trey and I have just come home from a 7 day trip to the Sandals at Montego Bay, Jamaica. I don't remember a time I felt this rested and content. I could write about blessings for the next several hours! We have never left both kids for a vacation of this magnitude, so I feel like we've reached a milestone. That said, when we arrived, our driver who met us at the airport (He called himself All the way Ray) asked, "Is this your first time in Jamaica, mon?" We answered in the affirmative and he countered with "What took you so long?". Post trip, I'm asking myself the same question. I realize that this extravagance seems odd given that we're trying to eradicate debt and build a nest egg. Indeed, it wasn't part of our budget we've worked out with our financial advisor (aka my Dad), but we had already booked and paid for the trip before we met with him. I am so glad, because now I see that it was a tremendous investment in our health and our marriage.
More in keeping with our new financial saavy, is the fact that I didn't pay the $15/half hour for internet access (this shows up in a blessing too). I had to jot notes the old fashioned way for my blog, so in this entry, I will be posting blessings 62-69 to catch up. Here we go:
Blessing #62, June 28 2010
I am thankful that we have arrived safely in this tropical paradise. My children are having the time of their life on my parents' farm, and my husband and I setting out to make "just us" memories. We will make jokes about "All the Way Ray" for years to come! It is a blessing that we are able to have this time, and that my family is caring for my children.
Blessing #63, June 29, 2010
Today a disappointment became a blessing. I learned that it was going to cost $15 for 30 minutes of internet time, so that means I can't do my blog entries. When I found this out this morning, I was bummed, but now it is night, and I see that it was a gift in disguise. With internet comes email, news, and countless other distractions. Plus, I can only imagine trying to write everyday in 30 minutes or less-geez, the pressure. I have spent one full day completely out of touch, and I feel tension dissapating from my tight shoulders, neck, and back. I will take a few minutes at night to jot down my blessings, and I can type them when I get home. I am thankful that for the rest of the week I will be detached from my hectic reality and firmly planted in this one where relaxation, not frenzied activity, is the norm.
Blessing #64, June 30, 2010
Food, glorious food! So far, everyday I have a had an omelette with bell pepper, cheese, and tomato for breakfast. Have I mentioned how much I love omelettes? Trey cooks a great one, so I am not knocking him at all, but it is rare that I get a deluxe breakfast and don't have to clean up after it, then hurry on to the next task. I mean this isn't just about eggs. I am eating pineapple, mango, papaya, plantains, bacon, and oatmeal with all the fixings. And I haven't washed the first dish. When the meal is over we just keep sitting there luxuriating in the experience. I guess we don't do that at home, because the meal is just something else on our to do list, and we have to get to the next thing. When I get home, I am going to make a concerted effort to savor each bite and moment at the table with the people I love.
Blessing #65, July 1, 2010
This place is gorgeous. I have felt routinely that I must have skidooed (this is a test to see if you watch Blues Clues) into a postcard. This morning we went snorkeling,and I was dumbfounded by what I saw. I've been snorkeling before as a kid, but this time I was astounded at the variety and beauty of life in the ocean. Schools of fish swam around me, I watched the bioluminescence of the jelly fish, and I felt tremendously blessed that this beauty existed and that I was privileged enough to see it. As a child I loved the experience, but I think I lacked perspective. In fact, probably, I believed that all the fish and coral and color was there just so I could see it. Now I understand that it is a luxury many never experience, and I am more awed because I understand that life in the ocean is necessary for human life to exist. I guess I am growing up.
Blessing 66, July 2, 2010
Lately, I've been having headaches in the afternoon. I wondered if they were from a lingering sinus infection. Well, I haven't had a one in Jamaica. That tells me a lot about my stress level at home. I am going to do better! I am going to decide to relax even in the States.
Speaking of health, I am blessed that I've been able to exercise with my husband here. Have I ever mentioned that he is a Physical Therapist and Athletic Trainer? I've had a my very own personal trainer on this trip. He's helped me with exercises for my back, core, and extremeties. He is so smart! He kept me out of the OR when I herniated discs in my lumbar spine, and now he is keeping me strong and healthy. He has a blog too www.fitnessasiseeit.com where he chronicles his workout routines and offers advice. It's pretty funny that I've been keeping up with him through his blog. We just don't talk as much as we should at home-so it has been wonderful to rediscover how gifted he is at his work, and how passionate he is about it. What a blessing that his work is a ministry, and that everyday my husband makes the world a better place for his patients.
Blessing #67, July 3, 2010
We've been snorkeling 3 times now. This all inclusive vacation thing is fabulous. The food, the scenery, the activities-all we have to do is show up. Today we checked out a kayak and rowed the length of the beach. It took us a long time on the way out, because we were rowing against the current. We were sweating and laughing the whole time. It was a lot of work, but we had so much fun. The memories that we are making together are precious. I am so blessed that this time with my husband as reminded me of just why I fell in love with him in the first place. There is no one I would rather be with.
Blessing #68, July 4, 2010
We're heading home today. I am ready to see our kids! I am thankful that we have had an amazing, safe trip thus far. We are blessed that the country we are going home to is a free country. It is wonderful that we left the States because we wanted to, and not because we had to to escape persecution or hopelessness. I am glad to be an American. Happy Independence Day!
Blessing #69, July 5, 2010
Oh, I missed the kids! Now that we are home and have spent the day with them, I am tickled to death at what wonderful little people they are. While we were gone they spent two nights with my sister, Jean. She told me that they slept in the same bed, because Katie said she would be "scared without Brother." Chip climbed into bed, read her a story, and snuggled with her till they both fell asleep. Today, they played for hours with the Jamaican stuffed monkeys (they have dread locks), regaled us with the adventures of their week, and hugged us several times spontaneously. It was a blessing to have a week with just Trey in a tropical paradise, but the blessings here with my family are so abundant. I think it is easier to see them after an absence. Just that heightened awareness of how good we have it here makes the trip worthwhile.
More in keeping with our new financial saavy, is the fact that I didn't pay the $15/half hour for internet access (this shows up in a blessing too). I had to jot notes the old fashioned way for my blog, so in this entry, I will be posting blessings 62-69 to catch up. Here we go:
Blessing #62, June 28 2010
I am thankful that we have arrived safely in this tropical paradise. My children are having the time of their life on my parents' farm, and my husband and I setting out to make "just us" memories. We will make jokes about "All the Way Ray" for years to come! It is a blessing that we are able to have this time, and that my family is caring for my children.
Blessing #63, June 29, 2010
Today a disappointment became a blessing. I learned that it was going to cost $15 for 30 minutes of internet time, so that means I can't do my blog entries. When I found this out this morning, I was bummed, but now it is night, and I see that it was a gift in disguise. With internet comes email, news, and countless other distractions. Plus, I can only imagine trying to write everyday in 30 minutes or less-geez, the pressure. I have spent one full day completely out of touch, and I feel tension dissapating from my tight shoulders, neck, and back. I will take a few minutes at night to jot down my blessings, and I can type them when I get home. I am thankful that for the rest of the week I will be detached from my hectic reality and firmly planted in this one where relaxation, not frenzied activity, is the norm.
Blessing #64, June 30, 2010
Food, glorious food! So far, everyday I have a had an omelette with bell pepper, cheese, and tomato for breakfast. Have I mentioned how much I love omelettes? Trey cooks a great one, so I am not knocking him at all, but it is rare that I get a deluxe breakfast and don't have to clean up after it, then hurry on to the next task. I mean this isn't just about eggs. I am eating pineapple, mango, papaya, plantains, bacon, and oatmeal with all the fixings. And I haven't washed the first dish. When the meal is over we just keep sitting there luxuriating in the experience. I guess we don't do that at home, because the meal is just something else on our to do list, and we have to get to the next thing. When I get home, I am going to make a concerted effort to savor each bite and moment at the table with the people I love.
Blessing #65, July 1, 2010
This place is gorgeous. I have felt routinely that I must have skidooed (this is a test to see if you watch Blues Clues) into a postcard. This morning we went snorkeling,and I was dumbfounded by what I saw. I've been snorkeling before as a kid, but this time I was astounded at the variety and beauty of life in the ocean. Schools of fish swam around me, I watched the bioluminescence of the jelly fish, and I felt tremendously blessed that this beauty existed and that I was privileged enough to see it. As a child I loved the experience, but I think I lacked perspective. In fact, probably, I believed that all the fish and coral and color was there just so I could see it. Now I understand that it is a luxury many never experience, and I am more awed because I understand that life in the ocean is necessary for human life to exist. I guess I am growing up.
Blessing 66, July 2, 2010
Lately, I've been having headaches in the afternoon. I wondered if they were from a lingering sinus infection. Well, I haven't had a one in Jamaica. That tells me a lot about my stress level at home. I am going to do better! I am going to decide to relax even in the States.
Speaking of health, I am blessed that I've been able to exercise with my husband here. Have I ever mentioned that he is a Physical Therapist and Athletic Trainer? I've had a my very own personal trainer on this trip. He's helped me with exercises for my back, core, and extremeties. He is so smart! He kept me out of the OR when I herniated discs in my lumbar spine, and now he is keeping me strong and healthy. He has a blog too www.fitnessasiseeit.com where he chronicles his workout routines and offers advice. It's pretty funny that I've been keeping up with him through his blog. We just don't talk as much as we should at home-so it has been wonderful to rediscover how gifted he is at his work, and how passionate he is about it. What a blessing that his work is a ministry, and that everyday my husband makes the world a better place for his patients.
Blessing #67, July 3, 2010
We've been snorkeling 3 times now. This all inclusive vacation thing is fabulous. The food, the scenery, the activities-all we have to do is show up. Today we checked out a kayak and rowed the length of the beach. It took us a long time on the way out, because we were rowing against the current. We were sweating and laughing the whole time. It was a lot of work, but we had so much fun. The memories that we are making together are precious. I am so blessed that this time with my husband as reminded me of just why I fell in love with him in the first place. There is no one I would rather be with.
Blessing #68, July 4, 2010
We're heading home today. I am ready to see our kids! I am thankful that we have had an amazing, safe trip thus far. We are blessed that the country we are going home to is a free country. It is wonderful that we left the States because we wanted to, and not because we had to to escape persecution or hopelessness. I am glad to be an American. Happy Independence Day!
Blessing #69, July 5, 2010
Oh, I missed the kids! Now that we are home and have spent the day with them, I am tickled to death at what wonderful little people they are. While we were gone they spent two nights with my sister, Jean. She told me that they slept in the same bed, because Katie said she would be "scared without Brother." Chip climbed into bed, read her a story, and snuggled with her till they both fell asleep. Today, they played for hours with the Jamaican stuffed monkeys (they have dread locks), regaled us with the adventures of their week, and hugged us several times spontaneously. It was a blessing to have a week with just Trey in a tropical paradise, but the blessings here with my family are so abundant. I think it is easier to see them after an absence. Just that heightened awareness of how good we have it here makes the trip worthwhile.
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