2010 Christmas Letter

This year flew by with several notable moments. Kara passed her licensure test for Marriage & family therapy…ran 2 mini-marathons…and turned 30. Mark helped with cross-country again and led several new groups at CCJ while juggling everything else. We saw another Ohio State home game which was awesome and found that Ian’s explosion into language was more than exciting for us. Ian will turn two soon, very soon and loves to count. Occasionally he skips 4 or 9 but gets up to 10 and is hilarious doing so. One of his favorite words is “careful” or in his pronunciation “cawful”.

Between “pes” or please and “tank-cu” or thank you his words are becoming more clear. We do hope that this year has brought joy to you and your family in one way or another. It is trying times but we’re always persevering. While working with people is wonderful and exciting, it is also unpredictable and stressful. We’re continuing to find balance and acknowledge our limits.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you!

Working All Week - Full-Time

This past week was a unique experience for me. I worked 8-10 hours a day at Memorial Hospital & Healthcare Center in my Social Work role with discharge planning. It is always unpredictable and challenging. There are parts to it that are very much fun and some of the most interesting conversations (both with coworkers and with patients and their families. Sometimes there are tasks you do that you honestly do not know the first thing about but have to learn as you go whereas, there are tasks you could do with your eyes closed and says the same phrase over and over again. Either way it's interesting.


This picture shows my hospital office work space.

What I am most proud of this week is not only learning more but getting up at 5am to workout and keep my resolve to stay fit. I had my share of sweets this week now doubt but I know at least I was burning calories early, early in the morning! It's a whole 'nother world that early in the morning and I found it peaceful though exhausting. By Thursday morning I was good to go and ready to begin working out. An ice storm kept me from working out Thursday morning but Friday morning came and I was ok. My body is ready to go bed by Ian's bedtime (8:30pm) but I think I do accomplish more. It has been a good experience and in reality...I really, really hope that I can keep the 5am wake-up time and make it manageable for our family routine. Not going to bed with Mark is different and kind of sad but I just can't stay up as late as him - it's not doable.

To give you a glimpse into my other professional world...This is my Marriage & Family Therapy work space at the church.

My Resolve....

It always seems that once I set my mind on something that my resolve at some point is tested. I know this is what all people face at some point, but it is different when it is you, yourself.

I have a resolve to remain fit throughout the winter season and have a plan...my plan has to be flexible and I'm work 8-10 hour days at the hospital this week so fitting in time to exercise is hard and demanding. I did 5:15 this morning and worked until 5:30pm. I am spent. How do full-time peope do it?

I have a resolve to keep doing the "December Daily" pictures and photo collages but am quite behind on this project - alas but I'm still taking notable pictures so it's a matter of downloading, picking out pictures and placing them into collages.

I have a resolve of making Christmas simpler, though am finding myself crunched for time...time for wrapping, time for sending out letters or packages...

It will get done, it's just a matter of when and how.

snowflake ornaments diy with kids

This is a to do-list for next year's Christmas:

snowflake ornaments diy with kids Utah Mama

December Daily - 5th

This week will be a busy one so I want to get the 5th collage up.
I am between these two collages for this day (beautiful & solemn center or fun toes center)...


December 5th
Stories: sick & solemn, bubbles in juice, watching for daddy, SNOW!, watch Thomas the Train with the pillow


December 5th
Stories: sick & solemn, bubbles in juice, watching for daddy, SNOW!, watch Thomas the Train with the pillow

FINAL VOTE result done on facebook will be noted here.

December Daily 3rd & 4th

December 3rd

"sick, cuddly, some fun, wrapping, invitations & conversations with a kitty"

This day started out with Ian having a 101 fever and then going in and out of "feverness". He stayed home with mom & dad and really laid around most of the day but you can still see that he was somewhat himself with those faces and poses. :) We got his birthday invitations around and I stayed up late wrapping the majority of gifts we are giving.


December 4th
Tannenbaum Days with friend Jill & making chocolate-dipped pretzels! This day was most fun with finding new discoveries and new shops in our town. Poor Ian was still sick but enjoyed the company we had and did the best he could.

December Daily

December 1st
"Yay"; Tigger riding the train; "ouwey knee mommy"; reading Merry Christmas Maisy


December 2nd
"Putting Up the Christmas Tree"

New Links

A couple of links I don't want to forget...

The Painted Hive - an awesome Starburt Twig Wreath

Someday Crafts - where the writer will get to this craft someday (LOVE THE PREMISE!)

Christmas Storage

Q & A from Ali Edwards Blog: You often write about storing your holiday-stuff all together. That means not only decoration but also albums, books and much more. I’m a little curious how your store all these things. In boxes labeled and with a list maybe? And another question came to my mind: do you toss away and sort out things when unpacking the holiday boxes? Or how do you manage keeping the amount of holiday stuff manageable?

AE & my agreements: I’m a big fan of tubs. Ali Edwards has these holiday tubs (and everything you see in the photo above) is stored in her garage. Everything else holiday goes into these tubs at the end of December: movies, ornaments, December Daily albums, Christmas books and other decorations – it all comes back out again the following December. I don’t have any lists to go along with these tubs – just a label on the outside that says “Xmas.”

In addition to putting it all away, I’m also a big fan of only having things that we really love. Over the years we’ve collected things that are just extra – extra decorations, etc that I’m not choosing to pull out of the tubs for one reason or another. This year one of my goals as I pull stuff out of the tubs is to have a box on hand for donations. I’ve attempted to do that at the end of the season before but usually by then I’m so over the stuff that I just end up putting it all away in the tubs (even the things that we might not really love and enjoy).

I would LOVE TO have these!! Ornament Storage Boxes from Amazon (one stacked on top of the other on the right side of the photo). They are pricey but they would be really nice and secure and sturdy OR something like them. My plan would be for one to be for Ian and one will be for Mark & I’s ornaments.

I really don’t want any more than this amount of tubs (4 tubs + the 2 ornament boxes).
This is really a transition year for us in terms of decorations. I’m taking it slowly as I pull out each thing and thinking more about where (and if) I want to have it here in our new place.

Do you have a holiday storage system? Any favorite tips to share?

What I am Telling Myself Now...

* This winter I WILL stay active (active winter plan)
* This winter I WILL not schedule any un-needed or un-wanted activities
* This winter I WILL NOT be a glutton and overeat on foods that I don't have that often (i.e. tapioca pudding, pumpkin pie, pie in general, truffles, candy canes, sugar cookies, fudge, cheesecake, pumkpin anything, sweet potato anything)

Plan Ahead for an Active Winter Season
by American Running Association

Check your gear. Now is the time to inspect your shoes; don't stop at checking for wear, but prod, poke, and twist to be sure they are not becoming unstable. Shoe materials, such as heelcounters, can begin to break down before you can actually see anything wrong.

Check your clothes to make sure they will still fit when you need them.
Waistbands losing their elasticity? Any shirts that have shrunk enough to be a bit tight? Any socks that stay stiff even after laundering? Put them on the inactive list before they cause problems. Is your watchband cracking? Replace it now before it snaps and flies off during a workout.

Even though you want to be less active physically, you can still be involved with your favorite sport. Volunteer to help out at a race or on one of the committees that make your sport possible. If you have only a few hours on odd occasions, remember many events begin with something as simple as stuffing envelopes, and somebody has to do it. These activities will keep you in touch with other folks who have the same interests as you have.

Choose one or two goals for the coming year.

For me (Kara) I look at what directions do I want to go...marathon? triathlon? or helping someone else train?

If you compete, now is the time to browse the coming year's race calendar. Setting valuable objectives is both science and art. There is science in planning the execution, but making your goals achievable but challenging, sustainable but fresh and interesting is an art that takes constant practice.

Make a list of experiments to try when spring comes round again. There are suggestions you've read about that could make you fitter, faster, and stronger. Have you tried carbohydrate supplements during training, or hill workouts for leg strength? How about trying bike intervals instead of track intervals to reduce wear and tear on your legs and feet? Write down your list and then set priorities to try things one at a time, because if you make more than one change and you improve, you won't know what did the trick.

How about putting a little more adventure into your life by trying something new; maybe combine something different with a vacation. Running, cycling, and weight training may be the foundation of your activities, but how would you shape up and enjoy a completely new experience, such as rock climbing, or white water canoeing? Try half a dozen tennis lessons, or golf lessons. You may have an aptitude that you haven't yet discovered. You won't know if you don't try.

Catch up on your reading.
If you have a pile of magazines and newsletters, and a few self-improvement books waiting to be read, now's the time. If you don't catch up now you never will, because when the days grow longer and the sun climbs higher you will have a choice between reading about it and going out to do it; which will you choose?

Don't forget your head.
You spend time reading workout schedules, exercise routines, and all that physical stuff. This is a good time to soak up a little philosophy and psychology. Exercise, fitness, and sports and athletic competition carry over into the rest of your life, because all activities, physical and mental, take motivation, goal setting, planning, dedication, and a desire to do your best as a route to self-esteem. George Sheehan was the master of relating the thoughts of the great thinkers and writers to sports, especially running. Fitness and performance are worthwhile as far as physical health benefits are concerned, but their greatest value is in helping us to be better people, so that we develop the skills that really matter: relationships, love, family, and friends. Winter is a good time to browse good books and give your mind some workouts.

Today's Mama Holiday Wish List Meme & Giveaway

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme
TodaysMama and GameStop are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What is your holiday wish for your family? To be safe and fell Christ most present

2. What is your Christmas morning tradition? We're still working on this one but as of now waking up as usual, fixing my Dad's famous pancakes, and then opening presents.

3. If you could ask Santa for one, completely decadent wish for yourself, what would it be?
The Canon Rebel XS digital SLR camera + Canon EF 75-300mm telephoto zoom lens - salivating...

4. How do you make the holidays special without spending any money?
Listening to Christmas music on Pandora on my computer, and sitting around the lit Christmas tree with no other lights on in the house except for candles - very soothing + time spent playing with Ian now that he will begin to "get" Christmas.

5. What games did you play with your family growing up? We played Euchre until late at night, Agrivation with marbles and Hide'n Go Seek with cousins.

6. What holiday tradition have you carried on from your own childhood? I have carried on purchasing an ornament for my child each year...

7. Where would you go for a Christmas-away-from-home trip? I would totally go oversees to England with family to spend with a missionary couple we know...or Germany. Alas, just some place with laughs...

8. Check out GameStop and tell us, what are the three top items on your GameStop Wish List this year?
1) a Wii
2) Call of Duty (Black Ops) for Wii {for Mark}
3) Wii Sports

Black Friday Plan

Black Friday Shopping PrePlan
We will be in northern Indiana with my folks for Black Friday so I'm forming a plan. At least some of the stores have begun to list their sales which is soooooo nice. I plan to get up really early (leave house by 5-5:30am??) and head to Warsaw &/or South Bend with my dad and probably my mom. Ian and Mark will hang at home.

Places:
Warsaw, Indiana
Mishawaka, Indiana ?

Stores:
* Walmart
* Kohls ?
* Amazon.com
* Barnes & Nobles ?
* Target ?

Items Considered (for self or others):
* Pull-over fleece or Jacket $5 (Walmart)
* Base Camp Fleece Jackets $7 Walmart)
* 2-piece pajamas, sleepwear set $4 (Walmart) toddler
* 7" Digital Picture Frame $29 (Walmart)
* Beautyrest 7-Piece Bedding Set $34.88 (Walmart)
* 10-Piece Black Frame Set $7 (Walmart)
* DVDs for CCJ Superbowl Sunday Prize Drawings $5-$7
* Ian to pick out a Toy for Toys for Tots (excited about this one)

* Farberware Bakeware (we need cookie sheets & 9x9 pans) 50% off @ KOHL'S
* HoMedics Massage Cushion $59 KOHL'S (for me? -- probably not but it's a nice thought)
* The Big 10-Pc Wooden Frame Set $14.99 @ KOHL'S (again for me but probably not)
* Marshmallow Raider (2) $9.99 @ KOHL'S or nephews (shhh...don't tell)

Route 66 Half-Marathon

A NEW PERSONAL RECORD: 2:00:55

This was a beautiful morning 64 degrees with a bit of a wind and lots of fun! I was expecting it to be at least 50s or worst 30s. It was a slightly hilly course around neighborhoods and city streets and then branched out into the riverside area which is beautiful, over a couple of bridges where the wind kind of pummeled you and then flats. The worst part was between 10-12 for me though - it was flat (so I could really feel my legs) and there was a wind against us at all times. I lost focus and dropped to a 10:00-10:15 minute mile and that killed my attempt to break 2 hours for the race but I did finish out strong at mile 13 and did as well I could have. It was wonderful and not really painful - more of a mental thing.

7 Happy Rituals for the Shorter Days of Winter

by Christine Kane
Each year, when we turn the clocks back, I am torn. Me too!
On the one hand, I'm elated to get some extra sleep and "gain" an hour. On the other hand, it's a little sad to know that winter is coming, and the days are getting shorter.

A few years ago, I noticed that I was rolling with the change of season much more gracefully - and without the same dread I had often felt. It was around that time I learned to create rituals in my days. Seasons, after all, show us what our lives are meant to be: dark times, light times, expansion, contraction, and of course... change!

If you are experiencing anxiety or sadness as winter approaches and the days get shorter, I invite you to try one or two of these rituals. Maybe you'll start to look forward to the earlier evenings as you see the mystery and magic of this beautiful season...

1 - Create a Glow
The great thing about darker evenings is that they allow for the perfect candle lighting ritual. Create a sacred space in your home and light candles at dusk or when you get home from work.
Some of my favorite candles are antique medicine bottles I've picked up at various antique stores over the years. I fill them with candle oil and wicks. The glass reflects the flame for even more glow! I'm always on the look out for simple candles and holders. For those that do not know me well - I'm crazy about candles - with Ian though I have cut back on lighting them.

2 - Start a Gratitude Journal
It's the season of Thanksgiving, so why not begin the habit of gratitude now, rather than waiting til the end of the month?
Get a beautiful journal and commit to completing your day with gratitude. Start with a list of five things. Write in as much detail as you can.
We live in such lavish abundance, yet it's so easy to speed through the days without noticing. A gratitude journal will change your life! This can definitely change your life - focusing on what you have rather than what you have not leads you into focusing on God more.

3 - Feed the Birds
Wake up to bird song! One of my favorite rituals is to make sure that the bird feeders are chock full of the best seed possible. Our feeders always have visitors, so we keep a guide to birds near our back door so we can grab it any time we spot a new species. We have regular visits from nuthatches, chickadees, flickers, titmouse, all kinds of woodpeckers, Carolina wrens, bluejays - we've even seen rare birds, like the hooded warbler. Spend some blissful time witnessing the pure joy of our feathered friends! (A great resource for bird-feeders is Wild Birds Unlimited.)

4 - Catch Up on Movies
Winter is a great time to catch up on those movies you missed in the theaters. I keep a list in my iPhone, and any time someone recommends a movie, I take note. That way, when I get to the video store, I have a reference. You can also get great television show season re-runs on Netflix. Mark & I definitely need to do this!

5 - Morning Work-Outs
When the clocks turn back, the mornings get lighter. Why not take advantage and wake up earlier to hit the gym? Start a fitness ritual. Exercise has been proven - over and over again! - to remedy everything from disease to depression. Hire a trainer for a month and learn some new exercises! The fitness habit will lift your mood like nothing else! Indeed I am muchbetter to work out earlier in the day.

6 - Complete a Project
Remember that idea you had for a scrapbook? Or that language learning series you've been meaning to plunge into? Well, now's the time!
Winter is a perfect time to learn a new craft, create something meaningful, and get lost in the joy of a new project. Winter is also the time to go inward and lose yourself in creating. What have you been meaning to create?

7 - Get Out!
Any dog will tell you: Winter is a fabulous time to hike! It's cold. It's crisp. You bundle up in layers of polar fleece. And you get to experience the hidden treasures of a season that most people avoid.
Make it a point to find some trails or paths near your home. Then, commit to bundling up and spending time outdoors each weekend. There's rarely anyone else out - so you get to have acres and acres to yourself. (Though you might bump into me and my dog! It's our favorite hiking season!)
Note: Here's a link to an article I wrote about one more of my favorite winter rituals.
Click below to read it -->
http://www.christinekane.com/blog/banish-sugar-cravings-with-a-new-ritual

This is what I do...

“Possibilities”The rock that is an obstacle in the path of one person becomes a stepping stone in the path of another.

Authoring Stories of Resilience: Guidelines from Practice
Description:
Systemic counselors are moving toward collaborative and narrative models of therapy. Clients tell us when we are helpful—if we will listen. Counseling becomes a circular process involving “dialogue” between the counselor and the client, as opposed to “pathologizing monologues.” A counselor stance of “curiosity,” where multiple perspectives are entertained, is replacing explanation and attempts to discover an objective reality apart from the input of the client. Counselors more clearly see themselves as part of the treatment system, and examine their part in constructing the “problem story.” Counselor “use-of-self” becomes important, and distinctions are made between counselor “intentionality” and “willfulness.” How do these ideas look in counseling situations? The distinctions between assessment and treatment become blurred as a circular dance evolves between counselor and client. The treatment context is expanded to include the interactions between members of the “languaged system.” Treatment is conducted as a “conversation.” The counselor gives up the “expert position” and becomes a partner with the client in retrieving resources to construct solutions. Questions gather information, introduce “differences,” and facilitate change. Externalizing of the problem generates space for alternative stories in the present. The client’s presentation tells a story. The story is told and retold so that the client becomes his/her own author-ity, or more involved in the construction of his/her story. Client resources are retrieved and the re-authored story includes elements of resilience: competence, courage, hope, forgiveness, humor, etc.

OSU vs. Penn State

We're goin' to a home game - pictures later!

kelly rae: learning to be new - another wise letter from jen ...

Since becoming a mama - a whole new world has opened for me although a lot of that world has scared me and I have frankly "bucked" it trying so hard to keep the old identity.
I have realized that, that very action was something that I had needed to do in order to live into this new identity. And now I have found a blog and a person who is speaking what I experienced and even better --- she is having her dear friends guest post for her with words of wisdom and encouragement. NOW THAT IS AWESOME!! Here is one of her friends' posts.

kelly rae: learning to be new - another wise letter from jen ...: "(baby true, five weeks, 10 pounds!) i can barely get on the phone these days, or email for that matter, but i'm learning that quick 5 or ..."

You have Everything You Need Print

Inspiration: A FREE Class

This is the FREE class I do every year with Jessica Sprague - not that I finish it but at least it opens my eyes more to creativity and the possibilities! Click here to go there!

Weekend Creative | Advent Action Cards

Weekend Creative Advent Action Cards

Oh I am "all-about" these!! Coming to friends near me :) Well that is if I make the time to do them...

Some things that happen when you become a mama: « Boston Mama

Some things that happen when you become a mama: « Boston Mama

A Little Disoriented

Life is disoriented for me...a huge situation involving multiple dilemmas in my counseling world, unending tasks with Social Work jobs, kitties that might still have fleas, arranging my schedule to get 6, 8, 12 miles runs in each week at some point, and figuring out "how is this suppose to work while following God's plan?" How does the cleaning, the playing, the cherishing and the love live in this space?

It doesn't make all that much sense to me - deception, seduction, lying and manipulation besides our humanness coming out which jeopardizes relationships, friendships and families. I realize I have a hard time with people lying to me although I realize that in reality, they are simply telling me one piece of the story or puzzle and choose to leave out the rest for whatever reason. I know that we all do it at some point in time in our lives but it is so hurtful and even possibly harmful if we do it with our closest people.

Those intimate, spirit-filled friendships we have where we are given emotional fuel to battle the day to day stuff in life are so important to me. I could not imagine not having those nor even worse pushing those away or abusing them for my benefit. It is apparent that godly people really can do ungodly things and that none of us are immune. It is just what path or direction we choose that makes all the difference.

I pray to choose the narrow path, to choose the path less travelled and to choose Christ and His direction. I need not be judgmental of others or look down upon them for choosing another path but simply to see them in grace knowing that God has given me grace. I choose to work through healing, forgiving and moving toward joy and seeing the best in others.

Run Like a Mother (book review) & Rewind that Tape

I'm in a blogging mood -- a couple of articles from IronGirl newsletter stuck out to me. And yes someday...I desire to run an IronMan (2.4 miles swimming, 125 miles biking & 26.2 miles running)...it is a dream. The 3 marathons on my belt were seasons & accomplishments but I want to go the distance - at least once in my life.

Run Like a Mother: How to get Moving and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity
Is the new book Run Like a Mother: How to Get Moving and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity on your nightstand (or Kindle) yet? It should be. Unlike clinical, workout-heavy running books, the essays in Run Like a Mother mimic the lively conversations good friends have when they're out on a run: a mix of personal stories; hard-won, helpful advice; and crack-you-up anecdotes that cement a connection that goes well beyond the miles logged that day. Sprinkled throughout the book is advice garnered from more than 150 running moms across the country.

With 26 chapters covering everything from conquering hills to summoning motivation after a sleepless night, from managing cranky husbands to finding the shortest port-a-pottie line before a race, this book enlightens and inspires newbie runners, veteran marathoners, and everyone in between. The book has been getting rave reviews everywhere from Redbook ("Their funny, frank stories and tips convince you that lacing up is one of the best things to do,") to mom-blogs ("This book. These women. How do I even say it? I feel like they stole the words right out of my brain."). The co-authors, Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea, both contributing writers at Runner's World, have been-or will be-at our Seattle and Tempe races to sell and sign copies.

In addition, Run Like a Mother is for sale at Amazon.com, bn.com, Borders.com, and bookstores nationwide. To tap into the tribe-vibe, join the chat at www.runlikeamotherbook.com or on Facebook at Run Like a Mother: The Book. And meet Dimity at the Tempe Iron Girl race.

Rewind That Tape
By Amanda Loudin

Before you begin planning next year's season, take a look back.

By this time of year, you have probably marked a period on the end of your season and are taking a well-earned break from any type of hard training (well actually I'm towards the middle/end of my mini-marathon training -- Nov. 13th is my "middle of the season"). Your body and mind are taking some necessary downtime after fighting the rigors of a tough season, but there is no doubt that you have already begun to think ahead to next season. As you begin to plan your goals for 2011, start with a look back at this year.

1. Consider all of the races you did:

Were you more successful at some distances than others? Why?
Which was your favorite race? Which was your least favorite?
Did you race too often, not enough or just the right amount?
Could you have gone harder in some races? Did you blow up in others?

2. Review your training routines:

Did you spend more time on one sport than another?
Did you give yourself enough rest between hard efforts?
Did you strength train? Did you stretch?
Did you neglect any particular area of training?
3. Evaluate your reviews:

With all this information in hand, take a look at your strengths and weaknesses. How can you alter your training next season to focus on the weaker areas? If you didn't enjoy certain races or distances, consider scratching them from next season's agenda. After all, we do this for fun, right?
Figure out the right mix of races for your lifestyle - if you felt overwhelmed by training last season, maybe you need to put fewer races on the schedule in 2011. If you think you can stretch yourself and step up to a longer distance or more racing, play with the calendar and see if you can make it happen.
By keying in on what worked and what didn't, you can develop the right combination of training and racing for your coming year. With the right approach, you can not only become a stronger athlete, but a more satisfied one, too.

Amanda Loudin is a Maryland-based freelance writer, runner, triathlete and certified RRCA running coach. She's completed seven marathons, including Boston, and countless triathlons ranging from sprints to Ironman distance. You can follow her adventures at www.misszippy1.blogspot.com.

Halloween

The night where all of the scary things comes out and all of the wonderful costumes, friends and memories. Ian wasn't too sure about a couple of the witches we met but after watching the older kids do the routine with "Trick or Treat" and people's doors about 3 times - he was ready to go! Running and please and "tank-cu's" and "buh-byes" were so cute. He'd watch the candy go in his bucket or he would put it in himself and then say thank you or buh-bye and carefully step off of the porches and run down the drive-ways to the other kids or to mommy.



Ian was a Jail-Bird this year although if you look closely he was "rejected too cute". It was the costume that fit him in his closet :) and I think it worked out pretty well. He was warm and did just fine. Here are some of the best pictures from tonight.

This is the action picture of the night - running down the driveway, ready for the next stop!

Weekend Creative | Stencil Glitter Initial Boxes

Ali Edwards
Weekend Creative | Stencil Glitter Initial Boxes

Toddler, Friendship, Margin

Life is down right raw with an almost 2-year-old (BIG WOAH!) Will he eat this? or that? or will that tantrum come out? Does he prefer mom or dad right now? Can I get a run in today or will I have to watch what I eat? Am I stressed......is he stressed? What is going on??!!!!

Yes it is WOAH, and i wonder, "how is it that I can see us having another child, someday?? how on earth do people do this?


This past Saturday, I went to the CCJ Women's Retreat yesterday and it was a blessing. I'm just so amazed at the stories people have and what we experience and how we all change and how we all get stuck at places.

I truly miss some of my dear friends' in-depth conversations just about ourselves and life and all that comes with it. I hope that we all have friends who can bring out parts of us that see growth in us and be a person to confide in and that they can bring that artsy side of us out and we can remain curious about how our friends "tick" and what their lives are like.
I do think so much of friendship is about curiousity..........


The biggest prayer request for me right now at this very moment is with our cats...yes cats. Mark & I are both about done with them....and all of their furr, their hacking up fur-balls, their peeing on things they should not be peeing on, their laying on the table & coffeetable....their fleas that are dead now and having to clean up after them. It is a big decision for us, because we love them, we don't want to get rid of them and we know that they relieve stress for us. But they are turning us into not-so-nice people. I'll be taking each of them to the vet here this week or next and we'll see. They are pets but they are family members too. It's a weird prayer request but on my heart. And of course all the people I am now seeing in counseling (I'm booked a full month ahead now...if that tells you anything).


We are trying to continually keep "margin" in our life meaning time that is not scheduled and allow ourselves to rest. There is a reason that I do not do this work full-time, it would burn me out and I would become cynical towards people's hurts and stories. I dearly do not want that, so in order to remain passionate and allow time for God to speak to me....this is a part-time passion. WE ALL NEED MARGIN!

Trim the Tree

Trim the Tree

I totally want to do this project for Christmas!!

Five Tips for Being a Mary Poppins-Like Mom

Five Tips for Being a Mary Poppins-Like Post from Jyl Johnson Pattee @ Today's Mama

When I think about perfect role model mother figures from the movies, I immediately think of Mary Poppins. She swoops in and immediately gets the kids to clean, feed the birds, and love to laugh without any apparent effort. She lets difficult situations, like chimney smoke, take her to new heights. And she brings a distanced family together, helping them focus on what matters most in their lives—each other, all while flying a kite.

No one can be Mary Poppins, but everyone—mothers, moms at heart, or any of us who have the ability to influence others—has the opportunity to have Mary Poppins-like moments and be a positive role model.

What Is a Mary Poppins Moment?

For me, a Mary Poppins moment is a little lesson that someone close to you helps you learn that makes a big impact.

For me, my most memorable Mary Poppins moments were taught to me by my own mother. Most specifically, she taught me to appreciate people from all walks of life and to discover our similarities while at the same time finding joy in our differences.

When I was 2, my mom learned about women who were in the process of placing their babies for adoption and needed a place to stay before their babies were born. Even though she was only 23-years old with a toddler and a 1-year old and wasn’t much older than the girls who needed help, my mom took in these women and mothered them at, what had to be, one of the most difficult times in their lives.

That was just the beginning. When I look back at the 18 years I spent in my parents’ house, they hosted four foreign exchange students, invited two teenagers with unstable home lives to live with us, and offered countless people to stay in our “hotel” while they traveled, needed shelter, etc. My mom not only cleaned the house, prepared the meals, and mothered or played hostess to all of these people, but also was a very involved “soccer mom” to six children of her own.

Loved this since I love Mary Poppins!

Here’s five things I learned from my mother about being a Mary Poppins-like mom:

Love to Laugh. Never let something as seemingly important as housework get in the way of playing and laughing with your kids. Have fun, be present with them, and help them feel like the only person in the world when you’re with them.

Take a Spoonful of Sugar to Help the Medicine Go Down. Don’t let life’s challenges beat you. Enjoy the journey, even if you are going through some dark and scary places. Show your kids it’s OK to struggle, but help them focus on the positive so they can enjoy the ride.

Feed the Birds. Help those that can’t help themselves. Reach out. Lift them up. And make a meaningful difference in the world. Involve your kids in charity and help them experience how amazing giving can be.

Go fly a kite. Set your sites high and push through to clarity. Help your kids have vision and see their potential, giving them opportunities and letting them learn from their own experiences.

Say Supercalifragiliciousexpialidocious! Keep in mind that everything doesn’t have to make sense. Pulling lamps out of carpet bags and uttering silly phrases may feel just as out there as going with your gut. But, trusting your mother’s intuition and letting it be your guide will give you confidence and help you make the right decisions for yourself and your family.

What Mary Poppins-like moments do you create with your kids?

Christmas Card Ideas

A Christmas Card I would like to make here and here.

The Past Holds me Captive...

The Past:
* the stories I have told myself about myself
* the relationship I had with myself & others
* how I viewed others
* how I viewed myself
* what I could have changed, should have changed but did not (accepted this part)
* the way I hold onto how I saw it
* the way I perceive that others see me *this* way or *that* way
* the assumptions I hold & maintain
* the lies I believed and still believe
* the beliefs I had about "so & so" or "this & that"

I remained captured...but not for long...Breaking Free

Stress

Stress:— n
1. special emphasis or significance attached to something
2. mental, emotional, or physical strain or tension
3. emphasis placed upon a syllable by pronouncing it more loudly than those that surround it
4. such emphasis as part of a regular rhythmic beat in music or poetry
5. a syllable so emphasized
6. physics
a. force or a system of forces producing deformation or strain
b. the force acting per unit area


A picture that depicts stress and its effects here.
It is a notable experience that is on-going in any of our lives and for some reason it ebbs and flows in my life. This week in particular is becoming very, very stressful. I feel it in my gut, in my sinuses, in my stomach and all around my thoughts. People are hurting and many, as I am finding out, are so desperate that they are not thinking clearly and are even moving towards taking their life. It is also a somewhat desperate feeling for the helper. I know that ultimately I am not in control of this other person's choices and that I present to them logic, rational ideas, and purpose-filled direction. I listen, my heart aches for them and then I have to put up my own boundary in order to cope myself with the feeling I get as well. It is a stressful, helpless feeling that drives me to stare, sometimes isolate or go a little looney with laughing just because the other emotions are harder to deal with (it's sort of life emergency room humor). Sometimes things are hard to cope with and you almost begin to make fun of them or at least make fun of yourself.

30th Birthday

(Statistics) Thirty is:
• A stage in young adulthood
• The minimum age for United States senators
• At age 30, you're older than 42 percent of Americans.
• You're 26 percent less likely to make a New Year's resolution in your 30s... but if
you do make one, you're 26 percent more likely to stick to it.
• The average person has had 7.5 jobs, and you'll have 2.4 more by age 35.
• 0.036 percent of people are in elementary school at age 30.
• 30 is the average age of retirement for NFL players.
• At age 30 (according to most biblical scholars) Jesus of Nazareth was baptized by
John the Baptist, at the beginning of his public ministry of teaching and healing.
• Western Christianity's most prolific 20th century essayist, F. W. Boreham in 'Life
at Thirty' ('Cliffs of Opal') mentions that in addition to Jesus commencing ministry
at 30 (Luke 3:23), Joseph was 30 when he stood before Pharaoh, King of Egypt
(Genesis 41:46), King David was 30 when he began to reign (2 Samuel 5:4), and the
Levites were numbered from the age of 30 and upward (1 Chronicles 23:3).

READ "Turning 30 by Andy Rooney" - google it.

For my 30th birthday I decided that I wanted to celebrate and celebrate I did though not in the "traditional" sense. I went to the Doodlebug Retreat (Fri-Sun) and FINALLY made our wedding albums and picked through pictures I wanted to keep and those extras that I needed to get rid of and it was a BLAST!! (pictures to come later)


In addition, I took the day of my birthday off to reflect and consider things and kind of redirect where I wanted to go now and how to consider things.

I reminisced and also looked forward. That night I had a get-together at a friend's house of my closest "sisters" here in southern Indiana and it was so relaxing and comforting.

It was a wonderful evening of pampering!



Group picture!

Creative Play for Tiny Tots

This is a post or parts from an article that I found awhile go and figure I would post it however, I am not sure who to give credit for this but it is awesome!

Art Play: Three Ways to Encourage Tiny Tot Art
Scribbling, painting, and molding clay are enormously satisfying for little ones. Here's how to inspire your baby's inner van Gogh.
It's never too soon to start encouraging artistic expression. Even tiny babies love looking at pictures — and by the time that first birthday approaches they're ready to make some art of their own. Here are some ideas on how to get those creative juices flowing:
Ready, set, scribble. Sure, it's simple but scribbling is tremendously satisfying for your pint-size Picasso. To make things easier, tape the paper to a table, the floor, or an easel to keep it from sliding around, especially during those passionate bursts of creativity. Once art time is over, make sure you put away all crayons and markers to minimize the chance of a renegade wall mural. One more thing: Stick to nontoxic washable crayons and fat markers at this age since pens and pencils could result in a poke-in-the-eye injury.
Fabulous finger-paints. Finger-painting is like scribbling gone wild. There's the added fun of vibrant colors and of course, that ever-popular (not to mention messy) element, smushable goop. (Smock, please!) For those who prefer to keep their tiny hands a little bit cleaner, a short, thick-handled, wide-bristle paintbrush works just fine. Remember, there are no rules in finger-painting, other than using child-safe, nontoxic paints (and keeping those paints away from Mommy's bedspread). You might also try finger-paints that are specially made to use in the bath. Kids love 'em and the paint just rinses off the tub (and his tummy!).
Clay play. Though babies this age are too little to sculpt a recognizable figure, they'll love it if you make them a kitty, a car, or just a simple ball to play with. As with most artistic endeavors right now, this is all about the tactile experience. Most babies will love squishing, smashing, and smooshing clay or dough with their fists and fingers (and sure, some will likely end up in their hair or mouths — so make sure it's nontoxic).

Creative Play: Stimulating Your Baby's Imagination
Unleashing your baby's creativity is easy. Look around you — you'll find inspiration for fun, imaginative activities all over the house.
If you think creative play is all about pretend tea parties or portraits painted by pint-sized Picassos, think again. Pretty much any activity that’s unstructured and open-ended counts as creative play to a kid, helping her learn about the world (and those fascinating people and objects in it!) and how it works. That’s why the simplest games and toys (even using things around the house that don’t seem like playthings to you) can boost her sense of discovery. Take the living-room window, for instance. While you (and every other grown-up you know) take the view for granted, to a newborn it’s more like a window on the world. (Add a bird feeder and it’s infant-friendly reality TV!) So the next time your little one is alert, sit with her and point out the highlights (“Look at that squirrel! He’s trying to find a nut to eat!”).
What other ordinary household objects can captivate your little one? When she can sit up, she’ll delight in a drawer to explore (or a cabinet or shelf). Keep your plasticware and some lightweight pots and pans in a low cupboard in the kitchen and you’ll have a low-tech way of keeping baby amused while you’re cooking or washing up (“Look at that really nice square container and lid you’ve got there!”). Those plastic containers (along with a plastic cup and a set of measuring spoons) can travel to the bath for some tub-time water play, where they can become props for scientific experiments (“Let’s see how much water you can pour into this container!”) or some pretend cooking. And pots and lids do double-duty by letting your baby make music — there’s nothing like the sound of bangs and clashes to bring out your child’s inner composer. (You can sing along, too!)
When your mini-Mozart’s beautiful melodies become too much, wind down by finding a quiet spot and leaf through the photo album (“There’s Grandma holding you the day you came home!”). If you haven’t gotten around to printing your photos, don’t worry — if they’re on your computer, plop her on your lap and show them to her on your screen. Stimulate her creativity by showing her pics of the people she loves best, and then move on to photos of flowers or animals. Before you know it, she’ll be picking up a chunky crayon and scribbling pictures of her own — and that will give you another beautiful object to look at, talk about, and learn from.

Updates: Two Missions

Previous Missions:
UPDATE: Challenge/Mission Declutter 50 - LIVE
Decluttering 50 things out of the house or putting in their place each week or month depending on how productive I am.

Finally wrote out my list which I have scanned.




UPDATE: Challenge - Healthy Weight & Body
This requires me training for a direction or goal - in this case "Route 66 Mini-Marathon" in November with a friend AND incorporating biking and possibly swimming to lessen the pressure on my knees which is primarily why I need a health weight.

So far each week I do:
1) "body-pump" 2x (Tues & Thurs) for strength training
2) running (Mon - recovery run, Thurs - tempo or hill run (3-4 miles))
3) biking (Mon or Wed - biking 10-12 miles)
4) "stretching class" (pilates/yoga poses/stretching on Wed)
5) long runs (Fri or Sat or Sun)
6) next on the list is swimming (but that would be at 5am -- not ready for that yet)

Can you tell my routine changes once Fri hits? As long as I get most of that in, I'm ok but I have realized that my nutrition is the next step and the next change. Unfortunately, lately I have had these "Chocolate Caramel Apple Crunch" popcorn pieces starring at me & I have eaten them. :S But they were worth it. I'll just have to run more.

The Fall List O’ Fun

I took this idea from: Erin at Today's Mamas
Here is the list of activities, projects and recipes that we’re going to tackle this Fall at our house…
GOING
Visit a pumpkin patch…carve a wicked jack-o-lantern and roast those seeds.
Visit the Cornmaze here in Southern Indiana.
Going Trick'or Treating in a neighborhood (I'm Cleopatra this year I think & Ian - hmmmmm not sure yet)

COOKING
Making the simplest Taco Soup ever. (Well, Mark that is.)
Make pumpkin butter. Eat it with reckless abandon. http://www.flythroughourwindow.com/2009/10/page/2/
Introduce my boy to the joy and glory of hot cocoa. With mini marshmallows. I think we’ll do this the first day we see snowflakes, won’t that be fun?

DOING
Get my boy’s photo albums done. Photos shouldn’t live on a computer. I know this.
Get my Christmas shopping done before Thanksgiving (&/or finish up on Black Friday).
Make felt garland for the Christmas tree.
Go outside and crunch in the leaves.
Ohio State Football Game in the Horseshoe against Penn State!!

Summer's Simple Pleasures: Reflecting on this Summer

This summer has been a little bit of a whirlwind as most summer's are I guess. Ian has went from my "eerrrr" "errrr" - sounding guy to "this, this" and "apple, manna?" and being able to let us know more and more what he would like to have. He is taller and had this first real injury that went beyond a scrap and bruise.

Mark and I are trying to navigate through different routines and every-changing relationship communication about various situations. It really is ever-changing. Some days have been way too hot to venture out and some days have been so gorgeous that I can barely contain myself. We haven't swam as much as I thought we would and really have not done too many "summery" things besides going to Cedar Point (Mark & I) and then running through some little fountains. I think Ian has gotten his summer "fix" with Ms. Ambra during weekdays - playing outsides on the slide, riding the little motorcycle and jumping into the little pool this has.

I haven't eaten any more sandwiches than usual, which growing up we had sandwiches every-single-day. We're getting back into running but didn't run in the extreme heat.

Stop the Splatter! How to Reclaim Your Attention and Get More Done

MY NOTE: I am beginning to believe more and more that how we use media is actually more debtrimental for us than the "learning" that we gain when we use it at non-productive times --- when we really should be having downtime - or when it would be beneficial to do so. With that, I don't think I will ever get a cell phone plan that has internet with it. Too much distraction.

This is an article by Christine Kane
Have you ever been at home all day when there's nothing in the fridge?
You open the door. You poke your head in. You hum a little tune and look around. You sigh. You grab a handful of pine nuts. You go back to your desk.
About an hour later, you're hungry.

So you go back to the fridge and look again. Nothing new has appeared. You pull out some black olives, put them on a saucer, and go back to your desk.

You think, "I should go out and get something to eat." But you don't. A part of you is convinced that a solution will appear. Maybe a Sous Chef will arrive at your door.

Amazingly, this doesn't happen. Eventually you're back at the fridge. You look in. Then, you close the door, reach up to the cereal cabinet and grab a handful of Kashi...

What happens in this scenario is that you eat all day, but you never feel satisfied. By 5pm, you're strung out, unfulfilled, and you wonder why.

Here's why:

You ate. But you never actually fed yourself. We do this exact same thing with our attention. We dabble in random things. But we never really commit to anything.

I call it Attention Splatter. It's when you mindlessly and half-heartedly splatter your attention on non-activities. But you never fully engage.

Remember this: Your attention ultimately feeds you. It feeds your heart and your mind. This is why it's so important to notice what you give your attention to. This is also why splattered attention leaves you unfulfilled. You never actually feed yourself.

The most common Attention Splatter culprits are:
* Email * Cell phones * Clutter * Internet
* Television
If you are prone to Attention Splatter, here are seven ways to feed yourself and get more done.

1 - Have no more than three priorities for the day. There's only so many things you can get done in a day and still enjoy the day. Get into the habit of spending five minutes each night deciding what one thing you want to get done the next day. Ask yourself, "If I only accomplish one thing tomorrow, which one thing would make me most happy?"

2 - Know the task before you sit down at the computer. This is a must. When you don't do this, you can get lost in the millions of non-items that any computer has to offer.
Assign tasks. (i.e. "Clean out email folders") Assign times. ("From 1pm to 2pm") Stop as soon as the end time arrives.

3 - Put an end to activities that leak. Make a list of "leaky" activities, and stop the leak by scheduling these activities. (As opposed to letting them take over your day.)
For instance, instead of letting email leak all over your day - all day every day - schedule email as an activity at a certain time each day. Every activity should have a home - a space for its completion. Otherwise, you set yourself up for a full day of splatter.

4 - Leverage your small slices of time. It's easy to look up at the clock and see that you have, say, 45 minutes before an appointment and think, "Well, I don't have time to do anything substantial. So, I guess I'll just go on line."
Turn your thinking around! Learn to fit constructive things in to small slices of time. It's amazing what you can complete in a short focused slice of time!

5 - Use your intention. Before you begin any activity, set an intention for that activity. Intend your desired outcome and how you want to feel during the activity. This is the ultimate act of creativity.

6 - Get rid of anything that doesn't feed you. Incoming emails, group emails, magazine subscriptions, news aggregate feeds, TiVo, memberships, unread books...

The list of incoming stuff goes on and on. Get your life in order. Get rid of anything that doesn't feed you. If you subscribe to it, ask yourself why. Start letting go of stuff. Doing this one thing has helped me create a home and office environment that is healthy and sacred. Be ruthless about keeping the incoming stuff to a minimum.

7 - Be present in your down-time. When you take a nap, take a nap. When you take a Saturday off, really take it off. Don't spend the day obsessing about the things you should be doing. Turn off the computer. Get out of your office. Go away.
Fully disengaging from all of it for fun is imperative. Plus, this will allow you to return with renewed energy and attention!

A Message

A Message to a Dear Friend,

I never thought of being a voice for freedom but that really resonates with me. I also found a quote as I was decluttering our kitchen this morning and it says "Inspire others to be their best by being your best." -- it was a Dove chocolate wrapper :)

I wonder if this isn't something God is really pressing on me letting me know that ultimately overcoming my own vices is once again...not about me and actually is attainable in this process I'm in the middle of. I see so many clients who are isolated in their own worlds and are not sharing their lives with others or allowing themselves to receive others' influence. It is only their own understanding and it is failing and not working.

your questions...
How are things going for you? What is on your mind most these days? How are things at church, home, work? Are you working now?
Things are going well when I take a breath out of the water, and acknowledge that I don't have to be so intense about things. Right now I'm trying to consider how to best connect with God and learn, love, and live for Him...while honestly figuring myself out (lol this part I should just let go of and do the God thing first). I know.

I'm not doing basketball anymore and Mark is still doing cross country. What is on my mind most these days? (GREAT QUESTION) the whole mom thing and professional thing....melding those two identities and really living in the present ---- it's a constant battle and Ian brings out the best in me and the worst in me. It is the wildest thing.

Church is going great, people are hungry and most seem to be getting it...home is cluttered and routine, work is fascinating, frustrating and a growth catalyst. I work on Mondays at the hospital doing discharge planning (social work), it is a pressure-cooker job...so many patients, so many tasks - you are always "on". Counseling (Tuesday-Wednesdays) really is a love and though I feel inadequate at times and ask God why?, people are growing. Unfortunately I am also seeing marriages falling apart before my eyes and I can't do a thing about it. I'm allowing myself to stay home today and do housework - something I haven't really done for a long time.

Ian loves to say "more" both in signing and talking...and he points to you if he wants to fist-bump you. yes fist-bump.

So let me turn those questions back around to you: How are things going for you? What is on your mind most these days? How are things at church, home, work?

Yes I AM Different

just realized that from a conversation with a client that I AM different after all...our past prepares us for our future and by golly - I'll be preparing my kids through my experience with pain and life's chaos --- just thought that was cool

Different? or not...

I don't know why I think I'm different...but I do.

(NOTE: a revealing post - please do not read further if you desire to see me as an "all-together" person who is always "with it"

Maybe it's my intention or fierce passion to not be a typical "minister's wife" but I guess I am ----- the supportive, caring, compassionate wife who is willing (most of the time) to put her schedule off for his...the understanding listener...modest dresser...and mother who chases around the toddler at church all while daddy shakes people's hands, listens to their stories and is a guide to a weary world.

Maybe it's the "you'd have to know my past" to be able to understand why I want to understand people so much or to be understood. Is it the depression? the postpartum depression? the anxiety that roams my mind? the experiences I had while struggling with a big vice for 8 years? the hurting? the college basketball player who fell short of glory & her potential? the teen who couldn't meet her own expectations or who criticized her body image so much that her view was distorted? the perfectionist who cried herself to sleep or didn't sleep when a term paper was due even on a topic she loved? the little girl who had so much security and confidence about herself until "that relationship or incident happened"? the grad student who wanted to become someone else and reinvented herself? the client sitting in front of the "experts" who were to help her but instead they pigeon-holed her and placed her in a box because she had to be "just like everyone else and that is why she struggled with this or that"? the isolated hermit in her dorm room who seriously contemplated ending everything?

Or maybe I think I'm different because I'm a dreamer, who peruses creative blogs and dreams of creating awesome/meaningful gifts for friends, journals, prints, frames, patterns, quotes, ideas, ideals...freedom...

Maybe it's the not-so-normal mother who struggles to play with her child out of anxiety that he will throw a fit becoming more independent as he needs to, the mom who doesn't want for sugar to touch her baby boy's lips (though realistically in moderation it's ok and she knows that), the mom who doesn't want to be defined by "mom" and plays a tug-of-war with her identity.

Or maybe the woman who knows that perfection isn't attainable and that imperfection really is beautiful, that authenticity and truth are more important than facades and perceived belonging, that friendships which are deep are worth the time but those that are surfacey might as well take a hike, the woman who seeks tranquility while enjoying adventure.

Maybe it's the runner in me who has more of a female softball player's build, who defies quickness and embraces participation over speed, who runs to transform her mind, heart and body, who sees her shorts rubbing against her thighs but realizes it is part of the territory, whose love handles are a-plenty and whose aim is to feel good and feel better.

She comes together, she is me, she is different but not really.

Figuring Things Out

I'm fat, I'm thin, I'm slow, I'm improving, I don't want to care, I care, I'm done, I'll keep going, it's too much, I can bare it, this is exhausting and what I think in some capacity on a daily basis. Whether it refers to being a mom, being a counselor, being a runner, or being Kara - I think it.

I'm ever caught up in this mind tug-of-war over how I see myself and what I do or how I am being. Ever tired of my own thoughts or actions. Somewhat depressed actually. Exercise, prayer and talking with others or doing something meaningful to help usually pulls me out of it. But...it's always waiting there. Ready to bounce, ready to demean and ready to tell me all the things that I really am not. Those things I strive to be but fall short of. So I'm figuring it out. Once again...

Mission Pantry - Coming Soon

Mission Pantry - Coming Soon
To clean out our pantry of existing ingredients and food items by creatively making delicious meals. Documenting what meals are created.

Challenge/Mission Declutter 50 - LIVE
Decluttering 50 things out of the house or putting in their place each week or month depending on how productive I am.

Challenge - Healthy Weight & Body - Just Began Yesterday
This requires me training for a direction or goal - in this case "Route 66 Mini-Marathon" in November with a friend AND incorporating biking and possibly swimming to lessen the pressure on my knees which is primarily why I need a health weight.

Mission Fireplace - 3 Months from now...
I want to chisel the fireplace shelves off (brick shelves within the fireplace protuding out), repaint the entire fireplace and attach a simple wood mantel.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unfortunately I'm always about "doing" and preoccupied with "being". Does that make sense? I have too many expectations for what should "be" for me especially with a toddler. Maybe it is overachievement or zest for life. Either way I sometimes place myself into a whole that is hard for me to get out of or to resist.

Not Written

I have not written for awhile or even posted and for good reasons:
1) this is really for me anyway and no one is really reading it
2) I think of clever or interesting things when I'm away from any computer and don't have place to write it down or the moment passes
3) I keep trying to think of a theme rather than these random postings and even though I fully intended to do Garage Sale Saturday - I have practiced and completed the activity ut have not taken any picture or posted any news about my findings
4) life is simpler when I'm not on the computer so much so alas...we will see

Colorful Room Makeovers: Bold & Beautiful

I will be helping a friend make-over her living room and bedroom and these colors cry out this friend's name. I'll try to share some more room ideas along the way and then will show you what it looks like in the end.

Colorful Room Makeovers: Bold & Beautiful

An Idea

I'm back and want to share...

Potential Upcoming 5k Connection Group
The premise is to RunInspired
Coming Soon... Give your couch separation anxiety! This 10-week 5K connection group will be geared toward beginning runners/walkers and progresses at a slow, non-intimidating pace to prepare you for a 5K.

The program includes:
·Training plan and coaching with weekly group training sessions
·Weekly hand outs and support emails
·Encouragement
·Special shopping trip for specialized shoes to E'ville or L'ville (dates TBD)

There may be informative information on the CCJ glass table or CCJ ENews.

Be sure to bring a friend! Don't wait another day to RunInspired!

There is a Season....there is a Time....

I've begun to realize how there is a season and a time for everything (of course under the sun - Ecclesiastes). There is a time for work (hospital social work & counseling)... and a time for play (surfing the net, running, crafting).

It's being discipined in knowing how to manueaver these times that keeps me sane.

Lots to Say but only Posting Small - LINKS

Trading in DVDs to Amazon for gift cards here.

Inspired by.....Stacy Amoo-Mensah here.

Oh My Handmade, here, is the cutest website with creative handmade products and just get my juices going with creativity!

Helping a friend design a nursery for her new little one coming 2011, and looking through nursery tours here.

Another amazing craft amongst the million that I'd like to do, a growth chart here.

Lots to Say but only Posting Small - SALE

Pampers

Pampers Village = Rewards for You!

Pampers Village is an online community of real parents like you. Membership enrolls you into our Gifts to Grow program--the Pampers you buy earn you points towards great rewards. Plus, you can earn points when your friends (new to Pampers) sign up.

View >>

Thoughts along the Way

Thoughts along the way...the 12 hour car drive way of traveling with a Toddler from Tulsa, OK back to southwest Indiana.

* Priorities really are important
* Am I giving what I have, wherever, whenever?
* What needs to change so everyday life isn't so full and stressful?
* How I wish I could get-away like this more often - at least 2x a year if not quarterly.
* Zoos are sooooooooo much fun!
* How do I communicate to others my purpose?
* Am I good soil for God or just a distraction or just prevent weeds but do not fertilize any other growth for others?
* How am I suppose to help Mark?
* Why weren't Mark and I on the same page this past week?

Garage Sale Saturday

I think I will begin a Saturday ritual of posting about a garage sale or garage sales to get out and see new things and meet new people in the area soooo it will be titled "Garage Sale Saturday".

This Saturday, today, was full of selling my own things at a friend's garage sale. There we finally sold the hard-to-part-with but tired-of-being-in-our-bedroom queen bed frame.


We were also able to sell a half-circle table and bar stools which has just cluttered up our living space (loved the stools but they had to go with that table). All in all it was a lovely selling day. It began with much rain and ended up hot and steamy but apparently those who really wanted to come out and were interested did. This really was one of the best garage sales I've ever been too: modern items, nearly new items and barely used, lots of variety and large items that were practically steals!

But I am glad it is done...until another sale...