family offenses

I don't know about you, but I adore getting together with my family. I have some seriously dynamic, achieving, fantastic people to look up to, hang out with, and call my own. When family events come around, I have such anticipation that it is nearly tangible. I just love love love getting together and spending that precious time.

My dilemma with the situation is the negative side to the whole thing-- the awesomeness brings along an ugly stepchild of sorts with it. family drama.

portrait of a lady

Through the Eyes of a Child

 

Who knew how important a little tuck into bed could be? 

When asked why he loves me, the smallest thing I could offer him is what he appreciates enough to remember. Amazing.

The one thing about this absolutely adorable photo that bothers me is that my son thinks my hair looks that crazy. 

Even then, I believe this is the best description of me to date. 

No one has ever thought I looked 14 feet tall!

And my hair is a touch on the crazy side...

Jane's Silence

Our human nature causes us to desire peace and love. There are countless times in life when struggles are present and the pensive silence necessary to realize the best decision cannot compete, rather it seems like it can't. We fight with our natural need to stop and listen to our conscience by reading more self-help books, talking to five more people to see what they think, when all we need do is stop and listen with our hearts.  I do not say to quit reading self-help books, scriptures, or seeking guidance from counselors/friends. All these steps are vital in decision-making. All these avenues have given me direction and understanding. What I am saying is that at some point we need to open our hearts and just feel the answer. Stop over-thinking, worrying, and, yes, even crying long enough to allow our hearts and heads to connect.

In Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, Jane experiences this necessary silence.

Swearing and Sugar: a deadly combination

stuff to say instead of swearing -- literal quotes from out of my mouth (or head)

1. that's a load of living garbage
2. now that was special
3. stupid stuff!
4. what in the world...
5. That is such a cuss word
6. I will not break the honor code over getting angry
7.What is wrong with you people?
8. super fun! (said with absolute sarcasm)
9. gotta love it
10. and then every once in awhile, my Texan sailor roots come out and so does a swear word.

Along with the sugar thing...I am totally struggling with the swearing thing. I know I can actually overcome this bad habit and have made SIGNIFICANT progress.

Just remind me about my expectations next time I am super upset about something. ok? 

Update on the One Woman Junkfood Party Ban: 
I made it Monday-Thursday with flying colors, then chaperoned my little daughter's birthday outing to a softball game and ate ice cream, hot chocolate, and three foot long donuts...then she wanted to go to a buffet the next day for her birthday lunch with the family.  I only had a large scoop of baked chocolate pudding cake--it could have been way worse.  So you know, I am now back on track since Sunday and plan on staying that way at least till Friday again. What is up with all these special events on weekends??? I will definitely do a confession if I eat more than just a piece of cake... :)

the lowdown on birthdays

What makes a birthday something to celebrate year after year?

I am a serious celebrator of birthdays. If I get it into my head that someone needs a birthday party (including myself), I will begin planning sometimes over a year in advance-- usually only a few months, but still -- you now see my overachiever side for sure. This idiosyncrasy has been with me a LONG time.

When I was between 7-9years old, I remember being in the Lucky's grocery store with my mom and asking her if I could have a birthday party. My mom responded, "if you want to have a birthday party, you plan it and I'll pay for it. If you don't want to plan it, you can't have a party." And that conversation began my love of party planning.

These celebrations are a place to come together, spend time, and build stronger, lasting relationships.