Thankful Thursday: School's Out For Summer

Wednesday was FINALLY Bethany, Connor, & Lucy's last day of school. Finally. I am so happy I could cry.

Our Summer break is off to a good start already. The 3 big kids each had a friend (or 2) over after school, and played and played and played for hours. Inside, outside, upstairs, downstairs. Bethany and her friends walked to McDonald's for lunch, where they were bombarded by 8th graders and sprayed with shaving cream. This gave them the idea to walk to the store and buy silly string, but when they got there they discovered that shaving cream is cheaper, so they bought that instead. And came back to the house and had a shaving cream fest all over the backyard, including the trampoline. Thankfully it rained most of the night, so with any luck the shaving cream stench will be washed away.

I managed to get to church to sign Lucy up for VBS, which is something I've been meaning to do for weeks. Lucy's best friend will be going too, and I'm happy that she will have a fun activity to do.

Lucy and Mathilda (& Lucy's friend) had dance, and since their recital is coming up next week, they wore their costumes to class. This is the kind of thing I dread, but it went pretty well. Bethany helped get Mattie ready, which was a big help. They looked so adorable in their costumes and barely grumbled about the itchy fabric and the annoying buns in their hair. When I went into Mathilda's class to watch, she asked me to record her, and because she loves an audience she put on quite a little show for me. She was pretty much doing her own thing, but she was happy and enjoying herself, and the faces she was making were cracking me up. I honestly don't care what she does at the recital as long as she gets on the stage and doesn't cry. I have been trying to get myself to accept that she might not, which will stink, but liking her classes is more important. If she won't dance on recital night, so be it. She's four. There are worse things.

I made breakfast for dinner and everyone liked it, cleaned their plates, and had seconds. This is always a relief, especially because it doesn't happen often. I almost always have at least one grumbler. Actually, one of the kids was slightly pouty at first because we weren't getting pizza, but I'm pretty sure CPS would come for me if I fed my kids pizza one more time in a one week period. Once the food was made, everyone was happy with it.

I finished the book I was reading to review. Although I'm not entirely happy with the book, I'm glad to be done with it ahead of schedule for once. The review will be published Saturday.

I hosted a preschool board meeting at our house on Tuesday night, so we are starting out the summer break with a clean house. When I say clean house, I am not counting anybody's bedroom. Even my own. Although we had four extra kids here for the afternoon, it's still pretty clean. Hopefully it can stay that way. Don't laugh too hard.

We have a lot of exciting things planned for the summer, and I can't believe it's finally here! The next couple weeks are actually crazy busy, so it's not too much of an actual break, I suppose. Looking at my calendar, we have the two crazy weeks, one week that's got nothing planned so far, and then another four weeks of craziness, and then the final four weeks with not much planned so far. We have some flexibility to do our own thing, and I think that's what makes me so happy. That and not setting my alarm every day. And seeing my kids more. And not dealing with homework struggles. And the heat, if it ever decides to act like summer around here. Not having to be so rigid, in general. Whatever the reason(s), this is my happiest time of year. I am so thankful for summertime!

What are you thankful for today?

Thankful Thursday

I am so thankful for a lot this week. My blessings are endless!

On Sunday, we had a really lovely time at the Birmingham Village Fair. My mom came along with the kids and me, as well as one of Bethany's friends. It was the cleanest cut carnival I've ever been to, and we had lots of fun! I was glad that Bethany had someone with her to go on all the nausea-inducing rides, Lucy and Mattie went on all the little kid rides together, and even Connor found a few things to do. It's probably even a good thing that the credit card machines were down so I had to stop buying junk food. Thanks to Emily at Hay There Media for giving me such a great opportunity to work as a Tweet Team member and help spread the word about this annual community event.

Mattie's been out of school for a couple weeks now, so it's been being home with just her for a little bit before summer break officially begins (next Wednesday at 11:24, not that I'm counting the hours or anything). The other day we met my friend at an indoor play area with her daughter, who is also four, and Mattie's best friend. While the girls played, we got to talk and catch up, and I'm so happy to still have this wonderful friend over 25 years later. I was thinking how funny it is how I can still have so much in common with someone I met in 7th grade. And how lucky I am!

Not only did we have fun talking and playing, but she had just cleaned out her closet and brought me a bunch of really cute clothes and shoes! I swear 3/4 of my wardrobe consists of hand-me-downs! I barely have to buy myself anything.

Wednesday another good friend met me at the gym, and the time just flies by while we chat on side by side treadmills. She is a positive influence in my life, and I'm grateful for the forces that brought us together (our kids were in class together at our previous elementary school).

Today my mom, Mattie, and I met up with a long lost cousin I haven't seen in many years, and her grandma (who is my mom's aunt and my great-aunt). She brought her kids with her, so I got to meet them for the first time, and it was really nice to re-establish some family bonds. We were re-connected by total coincidence via Facebook. Sometimes social media is good for something besides just wasting time!

I'm about to go pick my kids up from school, and then they have only 4.5 days left! I cannot wait for summer to finally be here! It's a good week to be thankful!

What are you thankful for this week?

Thankful Thursday: Mathilda is 4!

Last week, my baby girl turned four. This blows my mind in so many ways, I cannot even describe it. My baby. Is four. YEARS old. My heart is dropping into the pit of my stomach. I don't think I'm ready for this.

But of course the last four years have been gradually getting me ready for this. Day by day, Mathilda is less baby and more kid. She wants to do everything herself, except if she doesn't want to do it. Then she is suddenly the baby again. "I just a little kid," said with a quizzical look, as if I am nuts for even suggesting she should put her dirty dishes in the sink or put her clean pajamas away in her dresser.

Mathilda's most prominent nickname is Skunk. Because she is a skunk. She likes to keep us on her toes, this one. Translation: my youngest child is moody, persnickety, sometimes surly, and more than a little on the sassy side. She is also as sweet, cuddly, loving, and adorable as they come.

It's only fitting that this week I am thankful for Mathilda. Probably should have been last week's post, but I do what I can.

Vivacious, hot-tempered, and passionate, Mathilda is everything a proper ginger should be. She thinks hard and feels strongly, leading to deep questions, frequent nightmares, and not uncommon emotional outbursts. She worries and gets anxious and has a slight (ahem...) touch of OCD. This gorgeous little moppet has tested my patience and my parenting skills to their very limits. Her strong personality urges me to be a better, calmer mommy. I'm still learning.

Mathilda loves to talk. And talk and talk and talk and talk. The more I try to talk, the louder she talks, in what I can only assume is a valiant effort to dominate all conversation. Those youngests, they have to fight to be heard. I don't blame her, the big kids are pretty loud and she has a lot of competition.

Yes, Mathilda has a lot to say. And talking with her is a great joy and highlight of my day. She is so funny, her sense of humor is contagious. As crazy as she makes me at times, she makes me laugh every single day.

With all the singing that my little skunk does, she seems to be creating the soundtrack of her life. Why talk if you can sing? And when music is playing, she loves to be dancing. I sometimes think it's like as soon as she hears music, an invisible force is lifting her up and thrusting her onto whatever makeshift dance floor she can find.

What does Mathilda love? Purple and ballet and treats, most any kind will do. Preschool, Netflix, swings, drawing, and skirts. Her red patent leather Minnie Mouse shoes, headbands, Dora, hats, and hotels. What she loves, she LOVES. Making her happy is so much fun because her reactions are big and sincere, and her dimples are super cute too.

What do I love about Mathilda? The way she scurries into the kitchen clutching her step-stool and offering to help with whatever cooking I am doing. That she sings to herself and becomes slightly self-conscious when she realizes we can hear her. Her little hands, holding onto mine, silently imploring me to keep her safe. How she gets so excited when she sees anything purple. That she sometimes climbs in bed with me and snuggles up to me just right. The curls at the ends of her hair, which I know will disappear when she gets her first hair cut. Every inch of her perfect four-year old body, from her long red hair to her little bitty piggies.

Being the youngest, Mathilda gets me to herself a lot. She is my errand running buddy, generally content to go where I go. I cherish our time together, quietly cuddling while the big kids are in school, leisurely browsing through Target, stopping for snacks at Starbucks or Tim Horton's.

Getting big happens so fast, too fast. I understand why Mathilda woke up crying on her birthday, telling us she didn't want it to be her birthday, she didn't want to be four. She gets it, somehow. That now that three is over, it's done for good. Three was fun. And soon she will see that four will be even better.

My big girl. 

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful that my family worked together to give our living room a deep cleaning and mini makeover on Mother's Day. The kids really worked hard and Chris was completely game when I told him that's how I wanted to spend my day.

I am thankful for being spoiled for Mother's Day.

I am thankful for the wonderful opportunities that have come my way thanks to this blog.

I am thankful for opportunities to step out of my comfort zone and grow.

I am thankful that I get to spend some one on one time with Connor at Boy Scout camp this weekend.

I am thankful for a fabulous year of 3s preschool for Mathilda, which is coming to an end next week! Already!

I am thankful that I have been able to be a stay-at-home mom all these years.

I am thankful that I was able to chaperon Connor's field trip this week.

I am thankful for beautiful weather that warms my soul and makes my days a little more joyful.

I am thankful that we are about to begin couch shopping for the family room. I can barely contain my excitement on that one!

I am thankful for a fun night out seeing Jillian Michaels with my good friend last week, and for making a new friend too.

I am thankful that my allergies have calmed down a little bit.

I am thankful for lots of help from my mom and my in-laws, which makes many things possible that otherwise might not be possible. Like going to Boy Scout camp when Chris has to work all weekend. And going downtown to see Jillian Michaels on a Thursday night (again Chris was working).

What are you thankful for today?

Thankful Thursday

In the spirit of Teacher Appreciation Week, I am going to take this opportunity to carry on about how thankful I am for the teachers involved in my children's educational journey this year. I'm feeling blessed that my kids are being well cared for by incredibly giving teachers while they are away from me for many hours each week.

My love of our chosen preschool for Mathilda (and all of our children) is no secret. I drive 10.5 miles each way, passing several other preschools along the way, to send my baby girl to the school that I know is the best choice for her. The teachers are what make her school so special. I am so thankful to my friend who first introduced me to the school, and for these two wonderful teachers who have introduced all of my children into the world of being students.

Today I had the pleasure of being a guest at preschool for Mother's Day tea, just one example of Mathilda's teachers going far and above the call of duty to make this first experience with school as special and magical as possible. The kids sang, danced, made us beautiful gifts, and served us lunch that they helped to prepare. If you follow me on Instagram, you can see some pictures. Unfortunately I remain technically challenged and do not know how to get photos from Instagram onto Blogger.

I have been so blessed this year because Connor and Lucy both have teachers who are perfectly suited to their personalities. Lucy is like a delicate, fragile little flower who needs someone gentle and sweet. She has a wonderful teacher who just gets her and treats her exactly as she needs to be treated. Connor tends to get a little frazzled and sets really high standards for himself. His awesome teacher is mellow and kind and helps keep him grounded when he starts to get wound up a little too tight. They are both dedicated ladies and I'm so grateful that my kids were assigned to their classrooms.

Connor's teacher is hosting a Mother's Day Poetry Cafe tomorrow afternoon, where all of us moms and special loved ones will get to hear our kids recite poetry that they've written themselves, and enjoy some light refreshments. Again, I know this kind of thing takes effort and time far beyond the hours spent in the classroom.

Now that Bethany is in middle school, I don't have as much interaction with her teachers as I did when she was in elementary school. But I have found all of her teachers as a whole to be very organized, helpful, and responsive. They have each helped to make Bethany's transition into middle school a very smooth one. They all keep careful track of student grades online on the Parent Portal, so it's easy to see how Bethany is doing in her classes at any given time. I realize this takes a lot of time outside of the classroom, and I'm so thankful that they take the time to do it. Bethany is the type to email  her teachers if she has any issues with homework or anything else, and they have been really good about getting back with her and addressing her concerns. One teacher even sends out frequent email updates to parents, which I absolutely love. He takes the time to let us know when big tests are coming up, when he's going to be out of the classroom, and to remind us it's time to turn in fundraiser money. As our kids get older, being involved in their education is still important. Thankfully our middle school teachers seem to understand that!

Teachers give so much of themselves to their students. They work long hours, and wear many hats throughout the school day...educator, counselor, mediator, and many more. They also spend a lot of their own money to make their classrooms inspiring learning environments. Today I'm feeling thankful for all my kids' teachers do for them.

What are you thankful for today?

Do you love your child's teacher(s)?

Are your kids doing any special Mother's Day things for you at school?

Thankful Thursday

After school on Wednesday, Lucy handed me her folder and said she wanted me to see what was in it. I'm assuming it was a pre-Mother's Day activity at school, a handout with "Mom's Gazette: World's Best Mom!" printed across the top. On the side it says, "My mother is:" and there's a list of adjectives, with a notation to "check all that apply." Lucy checked all 21 boxes, from Awesome to Wise. I'm not so sure they all describe me (Am I Brave, Brilliant, and Cheerful? Hmmm...), but Lucy thinks they do, so they do.

Then there's a fill in the blank section.

My mom rocks! She is cool.

When she hugs me, it makes me happy. 

I love doing things with her, especially playing. 

She is so good at blogging. 

There are days, so many days, when I feel like there is not one damn thing I'm doing right in this whole parenthood/motherhood/raising children gig. And then one of my kids does something so thoughtful and sweet and loving, and I'm beyond thankful that these little people I'm attempting to raise look beyond my many faults and mistakes and just love me.

I am thankful that Connor was completely understanding when he found out Chris has to work and can't go to Boy Scout camp, so I'll be taking him instead. He had the heart to act like he's not disappointed at all, even though I know he was looking forward to the time with his dad.

Mathilda likes to play that she is the mom and I'm her kid. She creates the funniest little stories. Many of them have to do with visiting the mayor. "Come on honey, we have to visit the mayor today." Yesterday it was, "Tomorrow is a big day, we're going to Disney World!" Then she says the sweetest things to me...like, "you are just the best kid I ever took care of". Melts my heart. And fills me with gratitude and gives me hope that maybe I'm modeling something positive along with my bursts of temper and less than proud moments.

Wednesday, Bethany had fundraiser money due at school. I had haphazardly left the cash sitting out in the family room without a second thought about it. When I woke up in the morning, I went to get it, and it wasn't there. I couldn't believe I had been so careless. Mathilda could have taken it and hid it anywhere, or ripped it up...who knows? Or it could have fallen into the dark recesses of Under the Couch, never to be seen again. But then Bethany came downstairs and I found out that she already had the money ready to take to school. Sometimes she has a presence of mind and level of capability that surprises me, for an 11-year old. I can count on her to take care of business.

Sunday we had a movie night, the kids and I. I had read Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to Bethany and Connor over the past couple weeks, so when I finished the book I got the movie from the library. It's an old-fashioned book with old-fashioned language that isn't always easy to understand, being a British book that was written in the 1960s. Every night I read to them, they sat so quietly with me and seemed to appreciate the time together. They didn't complain or act bored, even though I often had to stop and explain what a certain word or phrase meant, and even though it was kind of hokey. All four of the kids watched the movie on Sunday, which was two and half hours long. Several times I thought they would lose interest, what with the singing and the hokey factor and all. But they all watched the entire movie, from beginning to end. I am thankful that they enjoy our time together, and that they can sit nicely to appreciate books and movies, even when they're not the modern entertainment that they are accustomed to.

My kids are a living example of love, acceptance, and forgiveness. I'm not trying to say they're perfect, or that they don't sometimes antagonize one another or disrespect their parents. I'm just saying that we could all learn a thing or two from our kids, and that I'm thankful for the perspective that mine give me.

What are you thankful for today?

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful for my new iPhone, which amuses me anytime I have a spare second. Boredom is a thing of the past.

I am thankful for all the fun stuff we've been able to do lately, much of it courtesy of this wonderful blogging thing.

I am thankful for packages. Never gets old seeing the UPS or FedEx guy stopping in front of my house.

I am thankful that next week is field trip week for Mathilda. It's gonna be so much fun!

I am thankful that I took Mathilda to preschool on a day when the 4s class was in session, and now that she's seen what it's all about, she is totally not nervous about moving on next year. Also, she was shocked and amazed to find that they have the same parking lot, the same teachers, the same tables, and the same toys. What a concept!

I am thankful for these preschool years, which are just too precious and fleeting.

I am thankful that my big kids look forward to our reading time every night.

I am thankful for the beautiful forecast in our immediate future. Sunshine! A reprieve from rain! Warmth! YES!!!

I am thankful that I went to sleep early the past couple nights, even if that means I didn't get lots of stuff done that I needed to get done.

I am thankful for gym time. Nothing clears my head like a good workout!

What are you thankful for today?

Thankful Thursday

I don't feel much like writing a thankful post at the moment. I feel more like complaining about the stubborn 3-year old who makes us late for everything, and the crappy weather and lots of other things. But. I'm not going to do that. (Even though I kind of just did??)

Even when I'm crabby and irritable as all get out, I still have endless blessings in my life. In fact, when I'm feeling like crud, these are the times when it's even more important for me to take a few moments and focus on the positive.

Deep breath.

My family is so blessed to have taken an awesome Spring Break vacation this year. It was really beautiful, and I hope and pray that my kids treasure the memories of this trip. We did so many fun things, and a lot of it was made possible by:

• Being able to stay at my brother-in-law's house (his big, comfortable house, with 2 guest bedrooms!).
• Chris's parents giving us a little cash for our trip, which help to fund all the extra things we ended up doing.
• Chris's mom letting us borrow her van, since our van needs a little work done before it could be trusted to take a 2000+ mile journey.
• Legoland coupons in Lego Club Magazine (and my friend Jill for giving us one of hers, which meant we were able to get 3 of our kids in for free). Kids' tickets are $71 a pop, so this was no small thing.
• My mom, who stayed with our dog while we were gone; and my father-in-law, my cousin, and our babysitter, who all took turns checking on and feeding the dog while my mom was at work.
• Groupon for giving us a good deal on admission to Jungle Adventures
• American Express points, for getting us into Sea World for free.

Also, the weather was wonderful the whole time we were in Florida, and the kids were little troopers throughout our marathon drives, there and back. Every single day was full of fun, and I am so thankful for the great times we had together.

I just realized that there's only about eight weeks left of school. Big reason to be thankful!

All this rain is hopefully going to give us some nice green grass and higher lake levels for all the boaters.

My mother-in-law picked Mattie up Wednesday night for a sleepover, & is taking her to & from preschool today.

We are all going to see Scooby Doo Live this weekend at the Fox Theatre, and I'm really looking forward to it! Should be a fun family day!

Chris is starting a new job next week, which should be a really big positive thing for us.

Catechism is over at the end of the month, which means a little less running around.

It's supposed to be in the 50s next week - I'll take it!

Okay, that's about all I can muster at the moment. What are YOU thankful for this week?

Thankful Thursday

Since we are now in lovely, sunny Florida, let's talk about how thankful I am for being here.

I am so SO SO thankful to have a brother-in-law who decided it would be cool to live in Florida and who has a nice big house that he lets us stay in whenever we want. Of course, we would love if he lived closer and we got to see him more often, but if he had to move away, at least he chose some place good.

I am so thankful to everyone who is back in Michigan and helping to take care of our dog. I know she loves it every time one of you comes over and we really appreciate your help!

I am so thankful to my in-laws for loaning us their slightly larger and way more comfortable van to take to Florida. And that built in DVD player sure does help too.

I am thankful that my brother-in-law finagled some free Disney passes for us.

I am thankful for LEGO Club Magazine for publishing great coupons for Legoland, and for anyone who gave me a coupon or offered me one.

I am thankful for all the wonderful memories our family has of our Florida vacations over the years. We have spent some very happy days and weeks in Florida, and I hope the kids remember at least some of it!

I am thankful that I was able to convince my reluctant husband that we should definitely take this trip.

I am thankful that we got to drive to Florida this time, although flying would be faster. This was our first time driving to Florida as a family, and you know me, I think road trips are way fun!

I am thankful, oh so thankful, for a reprieve from the cold Michigan weather.

I am thankful that we have a place to do our laundry before we come back home!

What are you thankful for this wee?

Thankful Thursday

Sometimes I find it difficult to find gratitude for the lovely state in which I reside. Sure, it's pretty easy to love Michigan in the middle of summer, especially if I happen to be, say, hanging out on a beach on the shores of one of our majestic Great Lakes. Other times, like a first day of spring that feels like the dead of winter, I have to dig a little deeper. Or a lot deeper.

But, this is where I live, and it's probably going to be where I continue to live for a  long time to come. So I'm going to focus a little on being thankful instead of wishing I lived somewhere else. Somewhere warmer. Anyway.

What am I thankful for in Michigan?

The green. And the water. Green is everywhere, even in the winter with the Evergreen trees. And you can't go far with finding water. In my city, there is a large (but not quite Great) lake, and we are just a short drive to Lake Huron. I have to admit that I love being close to the water. I wish I was closer to a beach, but like I said, Lake Huron's not far, along with its beaches.

The seasons. I'm not one to gush over how much I just adore the change of seasons. I'm usually not a fan of any change that involves cooler weather. But when spring comes, and the snow starts melting and the flowers start blooming and the breeze is suddenly comfortable and a little warm instead of arctic. Driving along with your windows down and smelling the clean, fresh air...And even in the fall, although it's getting colder and one step closer to the dreaded winter, the leaves change and it really is beautiful here. Especially when we get an Indian Summer, and we can enjoy the fall colors with temperatures in the 70s or even 80s. Now that is nice.

It's not so bad living in the same city where my maternal grandmother grew up. It's kind of cool driving along and wondering if this or that was a place she was when she was a child or a teenager. My whole family has been in Michigan for generations, and I love being so close to that history.

There is a lot to do and see in Michigan. We are lucky enough to have the rustic Upper Peninsula, with its waterfalls and forests and lakes, and Up North, where we Michiganders go to relax and re-connect with nature. I am grateful that we have Chris's dad's place to go in northern Michigan to disconnect digitally. I'm grateful that we have his pool, and Chris's mom's private park and pool, and family close by to spend time with our kids and help us when we need it.

I'm grateful that I can take my kids to places I went when I was a kid. I'm glad that my kids have been able to grow up knowing my aunts and uncles and cousins because we live near so many of them.

Now, that wasn't so hard. I could probably even think of more things, like that we seem to live in a bubble protecting us from major natural disasters. That's something to be grateful for too!

What are you thankful for this week? What are your favorite things about your home state, whether that happens to be Michigan or someplace else?

Thankful Thursday

Today I worked in Mathilda's preschool class. Probably my favorite thing about sending my kids to a co-op preschool is the opportunity to work in the classroom with the kids. There is just nothing like it. These kids are so cute and so carefree. It won't be long before it's no longer socially acceptable for a little boy to sit down next to a little girl at snack time and casually tell her that he loves her. Just because that's what he's feeling at the moment.

I am so thankful for the moms group I belonged to when Bethany and Connor were babies, because it was there that I learned about co-op preschools for the first time. I am thankful for my friend Beth (from the group) for telling me about the school that we ended up choosing. I am thankful that this school ended up being the perfect place for us. It was a friendly entry into the school world, which can be quite overwhelming for newbie parents. I am thankful for the wonderful teachers who are truly dedicated and care so much about our kids.

I am thankful that I get to enjoy the preschool experience for the fourth time with Mathilda. Having a three-year old is like the best fun ever. She is so excited when it's my turn to work, and leads me around the classroom by the hand, asking me to play everything with her. She can sit on my lap at circle time, and ask me to hold her for a minute if she feels like it. I am thankful that she still wants me around, and wants to be held and to sit on my lap. I am thankful that she would rather play with me than anyone else. I know this won't last, but I'm loving it while it does. I am thankful that after four kids I have finally come to understand the importance and joy of slowing down and savoring the fact that my child needs me. Yes, we are rushed sometimes...many times, in fact. But it's clearer to me now, that once three is over, it's over for good. I am thankful for that little bit of clarity.

Many parents are anxious for their kids to grow up, to be independent, to not need us so much. I've been there, and sometimes I still am. I won't lie. It's a relief when they can finally buckle their own seat belts, tie their own shoes, and make their own school lunches. Helping our kids become independent is why we were put on this earth. To love them and nurture them and then...let them go. I am thankful for the growing independence, too. The little steps that make my life logistically easier, bit by bit.

I can get my tooth brush ready.

I can brush my hair.

I can put my shoes on.

I can get the milk out.

Might not sound like much, but I do only have two hands, and lots of simultaneous requests. So when each kid can help out a little, it makes a big difference.

Today, I'm thankful for this parenting journey that I'm on. All of it. Every painful, bittersweet, and jubilant step. And I'm thankful that sometimes I even remember to enjoy it.

Thankful Thursday

There are days when I perhaps don't feel like sitting down and writing about what I'm thankful for. I'd rather whine and complain instead. Kind of having one of those days today. But, I am making a conscious decision to BE THANKFUL. I have so many blessings in my life, and never is it more important to remember that than when I don't feel like being grateful. Having an attitude of gratitude can change your life. I'm going to go out on a limb and even say it will change your life. So here's me...being thankful even though I don't feel like it today. Because it will change the tone of my day. And because I really am thankful, even though sometimes I'd rather focus on being crabby. Crabby is no fun - for anyone!

I am thankful that I was chosen to be part of the Shaklee 180™ blogger program. I never would have done a program like this on my own. I never would have willingly started counting calories and replacing meals with shakes and meal bars. It will be one week tomorrow, and already I am changing the way I am thinking about food and what I put in my body. When you only have 1200 calories a day to work with, everything that goes in your mouth better taste good and serve a purpose.

Just a few days ago, I was whining a little on my Facebook page about how difficult it is to restrict myself to 1200 calories a day. And already it doesn't feel so hard. I can do this! I'm getting more creative about how I get my calories so they can be fulfilling.

I am thankful that Mattie chose, all on her own, to not wear a hat to preschool on Tuesday. She's been wearing a hat every single day since November. No joke. The hat obsession will be eradicated!

I am thankful for a great group of moms who help me make sure Bethany gets to every place she needs to be. They are my life savers!

I am thankful for sunshine. A little sunshine does a world of good for my mood!

I am thankful for all the giveaways I've been able to offer my readers! It is so much fun giving stuff away.

I am thankful for a fun family night at Monster Jam on Saturday night. I love when all six of us get out together.

I am thankful for field trips. Mattie and I will be leaving shortly for a preschool field trip, and I know it will be so much fun!

I am thankful for Lucy's reading progress. She is blowing me away!

I am thankful for this day. It is a gift, whether it feels like it or not!

What are you thankful for today?

Thankful Thursday

I haven't done a Thankful Thursday post in a really long time, but I'm vowing right now to get back on it. I'm a much happier person when I place a heavy emphasis on gratitude in my life. While I do always try to keep an attitude of gratitude and remain cognizant of my blessings, putting it to paper...err, blog post??...well, it makes me think about it more. And sharing happy thoughts never hurt anybody either.

I'm thankful that spring will be here soon. Just when I think I can't take one more nasty winter day, Mother Nature always comes through.

I'm thankful for all of the fun things we have coming up in March. Everything from celebrating double digits to the beginning of Spring Break, and lots more in between!

I'm thankful for this stay-at-home mom gig. Best job I ever had. Not that the competition was all that stiff, but still.

I'm thankful for Pond's Evening Soothe wet cleansing towelettes, with chamomile and white tea. I mentioned them on my Facebook page the other day, and I'm telling you again - because they're awesome. I can't emphasize enough how much I hate washing my face at night...these things make all the difference in the world for me! They smell amazing, and it feels so good to massage my face and neck with one before I go to bed.

I'm thankful to everyone who has entered my giveaways! I have three going on right now, and it makes me SO HAPPY to see the numbers go up on the number of entries. I love offering these giveaways to you guys and spreading the joy. You can enter HERE, HERE, and HERE.

Even after having it for several months, I am still so grateful for my new bed. It is a real joy to crawl under the covers every night.

I'm thankful for honey. A couple of teaspoons of honey here and there have been helping Bethany and Mattie with scratchy throats and coughs. I've been giving it to Mattie before bed so that her coughing doesn't keep her up, and it's helping so much. I love giving them something natural instead of more meds.

I'm thankful that FINALLY we are canceling our home phone and cable TV. We got our Huluplus set up, and as soon as Magic Jack is done porting our phone number over, we are set to go.

I'm thankful for snow that melts that next day. That is my kind of snow.

I'm thankful for all the points Bethany has been scoring at her basketball games. I am so proud of her, and I know it makes her pretty happy.

I'm thankful for those lovely times when my kids help each other without me having to issue a direct order or talk them into it. Connor checks Lucy's homework. Lucy reads a story to Mattie. Bethany helps Mattie get dressed. I hope they understand some day how lucky they are.

What are you thankful for today?

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I'm Thankful for Couch25K

(It's technically Friday, but I'm still doing my Thankful Thursday post!)

Should I assume that pretty much everyone knows about Couch25K? Just in case, let me tell you a little bit about it. Couch25K basically helps people start running. It takes non-runners literally from the couch to being able to run a 5K. You start with a five-minute warm-up, and then you take turns walking and running, and finally you end with a five-minute cool down. In the beginning, you walk for one and a half minutes, run for one minute - back and forth for about 20 minutes. Gradually, the time spent running is increased in small increments, with the goal that when the program is over, you'll be capable of running a 5K. What the app does (I use the free version, and it's on my iPod) is give you cues. It tells you when it's time to start running or walking. You can listen to music while the app is running, and when it's time to switch, the voice will talk to you right over the music.This week I listened to a Tony Robbins audio book while doing it, and it was kind of cool working out and listening to a motivational speaker at the same time.

C25K

From start to finish, C25K is designed to last eight weeks. In the beginning, the sessions are 30 minutes, and ultimately, by the time you get to the end of the eighth week, it lasts 40 minutes. I tried starting C25K in the summer, but I couldn't get into it running outside. Now I'm going to the gym and doing it on the treadmill, which I much prefer. Maybe once I'm a real bonafide runner I'll learn to appreciate running outdoors.

I'm thankful that I finished week 2/day 2 this morning. I cannot emphasize how much it astounds me that I've been able to run at all. I was one of those kids who could never, and I mean never, run in gym class. I couldn't breathe, I'd get all wheezy, my sides would hurt something awful. I'm no longer asthmatic like I use to be, and I'm sure that helps. But Couch25K is really phenomenal for easing non-runners into running. 

I have a goal, on  my Life List, to run a 5K. When I put it on my list, to be honest it seemed impossible. I don't know if I actually believed I would ever be able to do it. But now, with the help of C25K, I am confident that I will be able to do it! I got kind of a late start, so I don't know whether I'll be able to do the 5K this year. Although...I have six weeks left, and that would take me to Thanksgiving week. Do I want to run outside in the cold? Hmmm. If you know of a 5K in the Metro Detroit area during the last two weeks of November, please share! I'll think about it...

I'm thankful for the technology that is helping me to meet my goals. I'm thankful for the C25K app. I'm thankful for my iPod that is the platform for C25K. I'm thankful for treadmills that tell me how fast I'm going, how far I've walked, and how many calories I've burned, and allows me to add an incline to my workout. I'm thankful for my Kindle, which I read while I'm on the treadmill. I can choose from any of the many books I have stored. I'm thankful for the Tony Robbins audio book I downloaded online (thanks to Smiley360) and was able to transfer onto my iPod.

Isn't technology beautiful?

Opportunity Knocks

Today I am thankful for opportunity.


Sometimes I feel like everything is impossible. Road blocks seem to be interfering with my every turn, as I encounter more and more challenges around every corner. But I have this belief, deeply ingrained in me.

                             somehow, some way, everything will be okay

That belief gets me through, and it always has. In my moments of despair, and we all have them at some point in our lives, I have known that if I just hold on, I will get through...and the despair will pass. The older I get, the more I realize that the impossible can become possible. In fact, if I change never into it's possible, amazing things can happen.

Everyday is full of opportunities. Sometimes we see them, sometimes we don't. Sometimes we seize them, sometimes we don't. Sometimes we believe they're there, sometimes we don't.

I don't have any magic formulas for a perfect life, and, like yours, my life is far from perfect. Everyday I try, not only to see the opportunities that are always there for me, but also to live by the golden rule:

treat others as you would have them treat you

...which doesn't always happen, because I'm human. But when it does happen, the opportunities might seem a little more real and available and possible. And maybe I feel like I am more worthy of them. Because I'm beginning to realize that feeling worthy is something I struggle with too.

Right now, at this moment, I am thankful for the opportunity to meet new friends and connect with local bloggers. I am thankful for the opportunity to make a little money doing things that are fun and that I enjoy. I am thankful for the possibility of a date night with my husband next week before he goes out of town for work. I am thankful for the opportunity to spend time with people I love. I am thankful for the opportunity to provide a nice childhood for my kids (and I'm not just talking materially here). I am thankful for the opportunity to take care of my body. I am thankful for the opportunity to be a better person. I am thankful for the opportunity to live joyfully and with hope, every single day. 

Some days it's easier than others to realize that these opportunities, and an infinite number of other opportunities, are available to me. But I am thankful that, whether I always realize it or not, they are there, waiting to be noticed and engaged.

What are you thankful for today?

Thankful for Lucy

Lucy shares a birthday with her Grandpa

Today, in honor of September 11, I am thankful for Lucy. She was born on September 11, 2006. In case you're not so good at math, she just turned 6 on Tuesday. Because of her, 9/11 has a very special meaning for our family. Instead of brooding and being sad, we celebrate. Because Lucy is something to celebrate.

Lucy is a sweet and gentle soul. She's a little shy, and last year her kindergarten teacher told me that she barely made a peep in class all year. Yet she loves to dance, and has no problem getting up on a stage in front of hundreds of people. When Lucy grows up, she wants to be a ballerina. Her slender and slight (yet tall!) little form definitely looks the part of ballet dancer.

So excited!

For her birthday, Lucy asked only for three My Little Pony dolls. That's it. She told everybody the same thing: Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Apple Jack. And when she opened her gifts she was so thrilled and excited about every single thing she received. Yes, she got the ponies, along with several other things. To see her literally jumping up and down and shrieking because she loved her presents so much was really gratifying. She's appreciative, and I hope it lasts. As I've mentioned, she didn't want a birthday party with her friends this year. She only wants me to take her out for ice cream this weekend with one good friend. And she is happily anticipating this simple treat as if she were heading to Disney World.

Hardly a day goes by that Lucy doesn't squeeze me hard and remind me that to her, I am "the best mommy ever." She loves to cuddle, to be held, to be read to, to share millions of hugs and kisses, and she is very free and generous with her affections. Her entire life she has been like this. As an infant, she would snuggle into me so comfortably, and be content to be held for hours. She brought me a sense of peace then, like her very presence was enough to calm me and remind me to be grateful for my life and my family. And today I am thankful that she has brought our family six years of joy and love. I am proud of her efforts in school, and the way she tries to be the very best big sister to Mathilda. I am proud of her loving nature, and the kindness she shows her friends.

Lucy Goosy, you're a good egg. And I can't believe you're 6!

Love those dimples, and those little round cheeks!

Thankful Thursday

This week I'm thankful...

...that Bethany, Connor, and Lucy had a good first day of school yesterday. Everybody got to school on time and everything!

...that Lucy's good friend is in her ballet class...

...that Mattie behaved herself in ballet class yesterday...

...that Bethany wasn't even embarrassed that she went to the wrong 3rd period on her first day of middle school...

...that Mattie wasn't too awful at preschool Meet the Teacher day today...(she was a little awful, but that comes as no surprise to me!)

...for TCBY, just Mattie and me...

...for the absolutely wonderful summer that we had...

...for a mother-in-law who is willing to watch my kids for a whole weekend and truly loves to do it...

...for a mom who lives 2 minutes away and comes over to help with the kids pretty much whenever I need her...

...for a quiet house...

...for dark chocolate flavored almonds, which I'm munching on right now...

...that tomorrow we don't have a bunch of stuff going on after school...

...that Connor didn't seem too upset that his 4th grade class is completely dominated by girls (guess he's used to it!)...

...for a perfectly relaxing weekend away with Chris last week...

...for the Groupon that my mother-in-law gave us to the H Hotel in Midland...

...for my father-in-law's cabin that we can use anytime...

...for my father-in-law's pool that we can use anytime..

...for our hot tub...

...that Mathilda didn't knock any of my teeth out when she whacked me with her head while jumping into the pool - two times in the exact same spot, within 5 minutes...

What are you thankful for today?

Thankful Thursday

It has occurred to me that I haven't done a Thankful Thursday post in awhile. It seems that traveling has turned my brain to mush this summer. But I have so much to be grateful for, so here we go...

I'm thankful...

That Chris and I are getting away this weekend, childless! 

The pediatrician's office was able to squeeze Mathilda in yesterday. This is the first time in over three years that I almost couldn't get my sick kid in to see a doctor. 

For the very nice lady at dance who did some rearranging so that Bethany could get into a very full dance class with two of her friends.

For my ability to go through Lucy and Mattie's clothes this afternoon with very little sentimentality coming into play. I did have a few moments of "Bethany wore that to a birthday party in preschool and I never want to forget that moment", but they were fleeting and I got through them. Salvation Army, here we come!

That Mattie is sitting on the couch happily singing to herself and looking at a book while she does her breathing treatment. And that she nicely drank down the yucky medicine earlier. I may have bribed her with candy but so what!

My mom does lots of school supply shopping for the kids, so I barely have to buy anything. Considering how unprepared I am this back to school season, I sure do appreciate that!

For Zumba with my friend Tina! I am uncoordinated as ever, but having fun nonetheless!

For my morning smoothies. They make me feel like I'm doing something healthy for myself every day. 

Our friend who knows instruments is going to look over Bethany's clarinet tonight and hopefully tell us it's in good shape!

For my mom and mother-in-law for babysitting almost every single time we need them, and saving us the trouble from ever having to hire a sitter.

What are you thankful for this week?

Thankful Thursday

Today I am thankful for...

14 years of marriage, and 20 years altogether with Chris

my mother-in-law babysitting last night so Chris and I could go out for our anniversary

free movie passes to see a screener of The Dark Night Rises

surviving standing in line for 2 hours at the movie theater...in heels

spinach and feta cheese pizza at Pizza Papalis

I actually liked the movie! All three hours of it!

Bethany's friend's mom taking her & her friends to a movie and dinner yesterday

having most of our clothes packed for our next trip already...well not packed exactly, but stacked up & ready to be packed as soon as I figure out what to pack them in!

my in-law's for letting us use their van for our road trip...with DVD player & a  lot more room than my van! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

perfect weather every single day of our vacation in Lexington last week

an awesome cottage in Lexington, and my own bedroom which I only had to share with children a little bit

my new gigantic cooler, that I paid nothing for, thanks to Amazon gift cards earned from various web sites

that Bethany read an entire book while we were on vacation, and is now reading the sequel and loving it

kids who do what they're asked to do the first time without argument

living so close to the beautiful and majestic Great Lakes

the end of Lucy's early-morning-the-waffles-are-gone tempter tantrum

being invited to a local blogger event tomorrow...I'm so excited to meet some other bloggers from the area, tour a dairy farm, get an awesome gift pack, and give away an identical gift pack!

a day to myself tomorrow, before all you-know-what breaks loose very soon and I'm stuck with my kids 24/7 for a two and a half week 5000 mile round-trip "vacation". And, FYI, I use the word "stuck" in the most loving way imaginable. I have a feeling I'm going to need a vacation from my "vacation", although I am really excited about the "vacation" nonetheless!

What are you thankful for this week?

Thankful Thursday

This summer, I'm feeling particularly blessed. I have been able to spend so much wonderful time with my friends and family, and I have oodles and oodles to be thankful for!

I am thankful...

...for being able to take my kids someplace that I went often when I was a kid, and that holds sweet memories for me. 

...that I got so much laundry done before leaving for vacation. Here's to patting myself on the back!

...for my recent dinner at The Hard Rock Cafe, where I was able to go on a date night with Chris. If you want a date night at Hard Rock Cafe too, or a girls night or whatever, be sure to enter my giveaway to win a $50 gift card for Hard Rock Cafe!

...for my new ergonomic UGLee pens, that really keep my hand from cramping up when I write. Want to try them too? Enter my giveaway for a chance to win a 3-pack of UGLee pens!

...that very soon I'll be seeing my dear friend who I miss so much but rarely talk to because we're in different time zones and the only time I think to call her is like 5 a.m. her time!

...living in close proximity to the Great Lakes, which = great beaches! And also, beach vacations!

...that my kids love being in the water, and that Lucy is really interested in improving her swimming this summer.

...for the ability to schedule my posts ahead of time, for instances when I'll be away from home with no internet access!

...for kids who love to travel, and are always excited to do and see new things.

...that two of my favorite shows (True Blood and Weeds) are back on, and that I can depend on my DVR to record them for me when I can't be home to watch them.

What are you thankful for this week?