Friday, November 28, 2008

***My apologies to "The Simple Woman" blog....I don't know how to put the link on my blog!! ??? Someone give me a hint?***

For Today...
Dear Lord,
I bring you my shortcomings... please help me, Lord, to be a Godly wife to my husband and accept him when it's toughest. Help me to understand, no matter what desicions he makes, that it is my place as his wife and Your child to encourage him, support him, show him, remind him of the right way. Please draw us closer when I feel like turning away from him. Please give me patience. Please give me the endurance and strength to hold our little family together and be the source of peace in troubled times. Please help me to make our home a place of comfort and refuge. Help me to find the joy in taking care of our place instead of grumbling about cleaning and all of the mess. Help me to take care of my own body so I can better take care of my family. Steer me away from those who enjoy drama and have unholy intentions. And Lord, help me quit drinking pop!
I bring you my worship and praise... oh, Lord thank you for my beautiful babies! Every single minute with them is Heaven. What have I done to deserve the honor of raising these beautiful bundles of joy and wonder?!!! I am so unworthy!
I bring you my prayer... for my husband. Lord, I know the path a Christian walks is not easy. You have a plan for each of us...please extend Your loving hand and guide my husband in the right direction so he may see the fulfillment and peace in taking care of his family. Your provision is his provision for our family. (thank you SR!) and what he provides allows me to give the very best to our children and our home. I feel this is where You want us to be at this time. big changes are ahead for our family...help us keep our hearts toward You and keep our faith strong!!!!!!
You spoke to me... in drawing me home to my children. In giving me the strength to hold my husband and let him hold me when we were having a hard time. In my baby's snuggle this morning. In giving me Shawna. In the beautiful Christmas lights on the tree near Unionville...each little light on its own isn't too spectacular, but put them all together and they are magnificent. Such a metaphor for life!!!
Small things Lord...fresh new toofies, freckles on hayden's cheeks, good lasagna, my husband's warm breath, my mom laughing at my babies, my grandma carving the turkey, and my home, as meek and meager and plain as it is.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

today is my last day at work. i don't know how i feel. it's bittersweet. i am so excited to be home with my children! the ONLY thing i am scared of is charlie not having a job. i am going to have a big talk with him when i get home. God, please help us remain on Your path.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

well, life is short, we'll all be dead soon, so why be upset about anything? ALL that will matter in the end is how you lived for the Lord and kept your faith in Him through everything that comes your way. sure-- it's easy to have faith when there are no challenges! but what about when everything is wrong? what if your money suddenly dissappeared? what if your health took a downward spiral? can you avoid the anger and blame that comes with those circumstances? that's a little harder, isn't it. things happen! and bad things happen to good people. and sometimes those good people didn't cause those bad things. things just happen. not letting poor circumstances affect your faith and disposition... that is the true challenge, and therein lies peace.


(p.s.--this is not about charlie quitting his job...that IS his fault and I AM upset! but...please refer to the final line, above.)

Monday, November 17, 2008

Not MEEE! Monday

It wasn't me that just ate 6 pieces of toast. With real butter.
And I didn't snoop to make sure Charlie wasn't watching the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader tryouts.
And it wasn't I that gave the baby a spatula to chew on as he stood naked in the bathroom while I tried to get ready this morning.
And I don't like chocolate.
It wasn't me that called the old lady a Ding Dong when I was in a hurry to work.
It wasn't me that forgot to get formula last night and had to get it this morning, making us all late.
And I didn't force feed the baby 2 bowls of spaghetti right before bed to try and get him to sleep better.
I didn't forget to call and cancel my dental appointment.
I didn't toss my gum wrapper down in the parking lot, either.
And I would never prance around in front of my husband in cute jammies and then refuse him when I'm mad.
My toenails are fully polished.
I'm not wearing a $40.00 red lace bra and mint green granny panties with a hole in the side.
I washed my hair this morning.
It wasn't me that used a Sharpie when my eyeliner ran out.
And it DEFINATELY was not me that shoved the dirty roaster pan back into the oven when I saw my mom pull up in the driveway.
It wasn't her roaster, either.
;)
"And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be notable to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you."
Luke 12:22-31, KJV

Friday, November 14, 2008

I'm not as grumpy today. Thank God. I think it's because it's Friday and I'm only at work for 2 hours. And I'm GOING to buy a new pair of jeans after work. I tried on every pair and took pictures of myself with the timer on my camera and it was awful! I'm 29 years old and I am not going to dress like I'm 59! And even when I'm 59 I'm still going to try to dress modern and classy. After lots of consideration, research, thought and prayer, I have concluded that just because I'm home with my kids doesn't mean I have to dress down. And..... just because I wear jeans and cute tops and earrings doesn't mean I'm a bad mother. Or that I'm giving less to my children. Or that I'm promiscuous. Those ideas are just obsurd!!!! And JUDGEMENTAL!!!!!!!!! My path to God is stronger than ever, and I do believe that it will continue to grow within myself and my family as long as we put Him first in everything we do. It is not my aim to dress flashy, attract other men, show off my wealth (ha!) or my body, or present myself as better than anyone else. I can remain modest while dressing in what I LIKE and what I feel looks NICE and what my husband likes and what is fashionable. And I feel good about it.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

This song is SO me

Already Gone, Sugarland

My Mama mapped out the road that she knows
Which hands you shake and which hands you hold
In my hand-me-down Mercury, ready to roll
She knew that I had to go

And hangout, make lots of noise
And lay out late with a boy
Make the mistakes that she made 'cause she knew all along
I was already gone

I was already gone
Life is a runaway train you can't wait to jump on

They say the first time won't ever last
But that didn't stop me, the first time he laughed
All my friends tried to warn me the day that we met
"Girl, don't you lose your heart yet"
But his dark eyes dared me with danger
And sparks fly like flame to a paper
Fire in his touch burning me up, but still I held on
I was already gone

I was already gone
Life is a runaway train you can't wait to jump on

The last time I saw him, we packed up my things
And he smiled like the first time he told me his name
And we cried with each other
We split the blame for the parts that we couldn't change
Pictures, dishes and socks
It's our whole life down to one box
There he was waving goodbye on the front porch alone
But I was already gone
I was already gone

Life is a runaway train you can't wait to jump on
I was already gone

Grumpy

my teeth hurt, my stomach hurts, my eyes are half open, my husband's mad at me, i'm hungry, i'm broke, i'm cold, my house is a mess, i'm more exhausted than quincy's first month home, i'm lonely, i need new clothes that fit, i'm jealous of my husband's past, i want to go home and sleep, i want my house clean, i want to be organized, i have nooooooooooo energy, i feel veryyyy pregnant, i have a bad attitude, my car is a disaster, a possum got into my trash on the deck, i just wasted $0.75 on a bag of chips that i don't even want, and now i have a meeting to go to where i will probably fall asleep and get fired. at least i could go home and nap.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

my man!

1. Who is your man? Charles David Lupton
2. How long have you been together? 2 years in January
3. How long dated? We are still dating! :x
4. How old is your man? 27
5. Who eats more? oh, HE DOES, for sure! When we go out for breakfast, he orders: an omelet with all the meats and all the cheeses, which comes with hash browns and toast and he gets gravy on his hash browns, and also chicken fried steak with all of that extra stuff too, and also a Belgian waffle. and he eats it all!!!!!!!
6. Who said “I love you” first? He did...he was at work and I was asleep and he text me I love you! and when I saw it, I just cried and hugged my phone and fell back asleep. then, when i talked to him later that day, he said it first before we hung up.
7. Who is taller? he is, just perfectly
8. Who sings better? his voice is better, but I'm the one that knows the words!
9. Who is smarter? that's too random of a question
10. Whose temper is worse? definately mine...he's the only one that can calm me down
11. Who does the laundry? me...unless he's washing his rig clothes at the laundromat
12.Who takes out the garbage? hayden!
13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? him (the outside)
14. Who pays the bills? both of us
15. Who is better with the computer? me
16. Who mows the lawn? He does, and i LOATHE mowing time! he's close enough that i can watch his every move but too far and too sweaty and too busy for me to love on or talk to!
17. Who cooks dinner? mama, and we cook together sometimes
18. Who drives when you are together? daddy
19. Who pays when you go out? daddy
20. Who is most stubborn? oh,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,daddy, for sure
21. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? daddy again
22. Whose parents do you see the most? mine
23. Who kissed who first? he went to get us a pepsi and turned around and asked, "can I have a kiss before I go?" I thought he'd never ask!
24. Who asked who out? I asked him!
25. Who proposed? he did...on Christmas eve, in our living room, with our baby in my belly
26. Who is more sensitive? i think he is. but he's making me return to that sensitive girl i used to be before the tough time in my life.
27. Who has more friends? i think i do, but our friends are both our friends now
28. Who has more siblings? him
29. Who wears the pants in the family? daddy!
30. How did you meet? at a "gathering". i saw him and said, "this guy won't leave me alone, come outside and get me away from him." which was true, but i grabbed him because i thought he was cute! then, we talked awhile and exchanged numbers and met the next day for lunch and have been together ever since!
oh,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,i miss him desperately!

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Ok, so I don't know why, but I keep feeling the need to get pretty. Maybe it's hormonal, but I really think that it's because I'm feeling better about myself. Here's the thing. It's a fine line between making yourself pretty and being materialistic. I don't think God expects us to not wear makeup or not buy things that look nice on us or not dress up when we're just "at home with the kids" (if I am wrong about this....BY ALL MEANS, TEACH ME). It makes me feel good to paint my nails and be able to have the jeans that make my backside look great and have a few things that are special and make me feel good. I know that feeling good comes from the LORD Himself, and it comes from the inside out. And I feel good on the inside, which is why I'm making an effort to LOOK GOOD on the outside. And just because you've made it to the point where you are comfortable in your own skin, does that mean you can't pretty yourself up? I guess what I'm asking is, does being a Christian woman mean I shouldn't wear flashy earrings or sexy things for my husband? Please tell me how you feel on this! I'm kinda lost...I know what I FEEL, which is: it's just fine to dress in what makes you feel good if that's your taste, as long as you abide by these few rules...1. it is not demeaning 2. you have the room in your budget and it doesn't take away from the family (if you buy yourself a donut and coffee, it takes away from the family if you want to get technical...) 3. remaining modest as a mother and a Christian 4. it doesn't become your source of happiness...a false happiness, and 5. you always focus on being a good person FIRST and FOREMOST. Please tell me what you think. I'm ignorant to what the bible says about this. I am anxiously awaiting approval from a fellow blogger to copy and paste a part of his blog on mine because it really helped me. Maybe soon. Until then, is it WRONG of me to want these things?...











Hair like this.













A body like this.













These jeans (built for a booty like mine).
and this wedding dress?
FOR TODAY ...
Outside My Window...dark and cold, rainy. I'm trying not to let it reflect upon my mood. Trying really hard. Hard to try when it's dreary outside!!! I am thinking...I got up early with son#2 and had time to get ready...and it paid off. I look pretty good today. I am thankful for...charlie agreeing and believing that me staying home is what's best for our family and him working so hard to make that possible. From the kitchen...I'm eating graham crackers and a mountain dew now and tonight we are having broccoli and cheese baked potatoes since it's just Q and I. I am wearing...brown dress pants with a pink and dark brown plaid design in them, a pink shirt with a white ruffle neck shirt under it, silver hoop earrings and black heels. I am creating...an autumn wreath that the boys and I are coloring for the front door. Also, some ornaments for our tree. I am going...to leave work a little early today and take a nap with my baby before we get Hayden from school. I am reading...other blogs for inspiration. I am hoping...that Charlie will listen to God's guiding words and steer away from the greed, lust, and "easy living" that Satan tempts him with. I am hearing...nothing. Ahhhhh, nothing. "To really pray is not a matter of dashing into the presence of God, "spitting out" to Him what is on our minds, and then dashing away again. We will never get very far in prayer that way. I sometimes think the Lord purposely gives us times of stillness in the night. Normally I sleep well, but sometimes I think the Lord awakens me so I can talk with Him, because in the night a person can truly be still and utterly quiet. This is especially true in the early hours of the morning before noise begins in the streets. Even the birds are at rest during this time. I believe God tries to teach us throughout our lives that to wait upon Him requires quietness and stillness. Spoken words are not enough; silent worship constitutes genuine prayer."-Christian Weiss Around the house...Oh man, it's a mess today. Toys, clothes, papers...I have a big job ahead of me. One of my favorite things...watching the night turn into day. the sky gradually lightens and it's a fresh new beginning. A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: clean, organize, start working out. I want to be ready for summer by next fall! Here is picture thought I am sharing...

the pacific ocean at laguna beach. this pic restores my soul just looking at it.

Monday, November 10, 2008

FOR TODAY ...

Outside My Window...kinda dreary, cold out there...makes me wish hubbster and I were in sweaters and jeans drinking coffee in the cab of our old truck parked out in a field.

I am thinking...I can't wait to be "Secretary of the Lupton Home"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am thankful for...oh, my husband. Love is not the word for what we have. Saying "I love you" just doesn't seem fitting. It's not enough. You know what I mean?

From the kitchen...just ate parmesan chicken and 2 big scoops of broccoli and a long john and a diet pepsi and workin on some apples and cheese. I can't get enough to eat! Tonight it's lasagna and leftover corn casserole for Q and I. His middle name should've been Lasagna.
I am wearing...khakis, green tee and black hoodie. and pumas. OH man...I'm wearing the same thing only the tee is pink. I'm a loser!

I am creating...an office in my home. And organization to EVERYTHING. And homemade Christmas gifts!! I can't WAIT to get started!

I am going...to grab some crafting stuff at Walmart this weekend and set up a spot for us in the basement. Hayden LOVES to draw, so I'm making our basement into an office/craft room/scrapbook room/t.v. room/toy room. I would love to buy 4 long tables and put them all along the wall end to end to give us plenty of room.

I am reading..."A 6th Bowl of Chicken Soup for the Soul".
I am hoping...that Charlie finds the place he fits in and all goes well with mama staying home.
I am hearing...my pop fizzing, the clock ticking...and quiet. "Be still and know that I am God."
Around the house...remnants of Daddy time...dishes, scarce leftovers, laundry, all pushed aside to make the most of our weekend together. Lovingly messy.
One of my favorite things...decorating my freshly cleaned house for the holidays, while listening to music. also, my children's art work.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: spending time in each room, listening to my heart to find what needs changing in order to make it more comfortable and nurturing.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

I am in LOVE with these old Hacienda Doors from Mexico. I am NUTS over Mexican antique doors. Someday I would like to purchase a set. I'd hang them on the wall and just look at them all the time. I'd have a dinner party in their honor. I'd even put their picture in my wallet.

"Not Me!" Monday

No, this is not my third diet pepsi today.
No, I did not use the fax machine at work to send out applications for my husband.
It wasn't me that ate the last 9 cookies and drank the last of the milk last night. again.
No, I am not blogging at work.
No, I didn't just send my husband a picture of me eating a long john to tease him while he's on the bus. starving. and grumpy.
And I'm not the reason Hayden's wearing 2 different socks today.
No, I'm not sick of the "1st Black American President" hype.
No, I do not want a computer for Christmas.
And no WAY do I want to take a nap right now.
:>

Wednesday, November 5, 2008



FOR TODAY ...
Outside My Window...windy, cool, sunny.
I am thinking...I just want this day to be over.
I am thankful for...time to reflect.
From the kitchen...oatmeal and toast. and mountain dew.
I am wearing...khakis, green tee and black hoodie. and pumas.
I am creating...a clean office for the next lady to take over when i leave.
I am going...to leave work early today and get some cleaning done before charlie gets home.
I am reading...nothing. listening to music.
I am hoping...to be in a better mood, quickly.
I am hearing...nothing. my office door is shut and i like it that way today.
Around the house...it is an absolute mess.
One of my favorite things...sleep.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: who knows...when charlie's home, it's up in the air. i am going to make our thanksgiving dinner on sunday, though, just in case he's not home again before thanksgiving.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

FOR TODAY ...

Outside My Window...bright sun, twittering leaves, cool breeze, lots of little pumpkins sunning themselves on the picnic table.

I am thinking...oh, so much to do...God give me strength and stamina to get it all done!

I am thankful for...my health...i haven't taken ANY heart medication or had ANY racing pulse in about a month. woo hoo!!

From the kitchen...rotisserie chicken and green beans and watermelon.

I am wearing...scrubs...rough morning!

I am creating...a warm, comfortable, peaceful, cheerful, comforting, exciting home.

I am going...to miss my husband so much if he has to stay another 2 weeks at work.

I am reading...scripture online.
I am hoping...Charlie comes home tonight. And I'm also hoping he stays another 2 weeks. Money or time together? We shouldn't have to make that decision. But right now, we are considering BOTH such a blessing, so whatever God will grant us is what we will enjoy.
I am hearing...chatter in the hallway, and the song playing on youtube: "Die Without You" by PM Dawn. (that's an oldie! but one of my favorites, still)

Around the house...paper, markers, pumpkins...getting ready for Thanksgiving crafts and decorating for daddy!!!

One of my favorite things...when charlie and i find each other in our sleep and kiss and drift off holding hands.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: getting the house ready for the assessor, filing papers, getting bills ready, decorating for daddy if he comes home, starting Christmas lists, planning our menu, lots of one on one time with the boys.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Brainstorm

Just woke up with a lot on my mind, thought I'd blog it out. It's gonna be a bit rambly, unorganized, and probably totally random. My immediate thought as I start is just how blessed our little family is. We had a rough morning...Q pooped all over his bed, Hayden wouldn't get up, my hair is a total mess, and I managed to burn our eggs to little dry chew-things and we each had about 3 bites before we gave up on breakfast. As I was driving the kids to the school/sitter, I can hear them laughing together and playing in the back seat, and it totally warmed my heart. They love each other so much! And it's so natural. I never had that...I'm an only child. It's so cool to me, knowing my boys have each other forever. There's an assessor coming to view our home on Thursday, and I've been running around trying to get things done and realized...I'm complaining because I have so much to do, when I should stop and be thankful that God has blessed our family with a modest little home that is OURS. I am seeing His work in so many aspects of my life, and even as I am typing this, I am filled with His spirit and it nearly moves me to tears. When you give yourself to God and finally surrender to His love, your whole life changes!!! I am living as I have never lived before. I am not judgemental, I am not rude, I am not vain, I am not quick tempered. And I am seeing these things in other people and steering myself and my family away from them. I am seeing each and every item/person/opportunity for what it is, and thanking God for it. He has shined His light on me and brought me through so much, because I seeked Him and kept faith that His way would guide my family and I. And it has! I have made the decision, through following Him, to put all of my love and energy where it should be, and that's with my family and my home. I feel Him pulling me, and it's the most amazing feeling. "He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young." Isaiah 40:11

Monday, November 3, 2008

free glitter text and family website at FamilyLobby.com
Count your blessingsName them one by oneCount your blessingsSee what God has doneCount your blessingsName them one by oneCount your many blessingsSee what God has done
When upon life's billowsYou are tempest tossedWhen you are discouragedThinking all is lostCount your many blessingsName them one by oneAnd it will surprise youWhat the Lord has done
Count your blessingsName them one by oneCount your blessingsSee what God has doneCount your blessingsName them one by oneCount your many blessingsSee what God has done
Are you ever burdenedWith a load of careDoes the cross seem heavyYou are called to bearCount your many blessingsEvery doubt will flyAnd you will be singingAs the days go by
Count your blessingsName them one by oneCount your blessingsSee what God has doneCount your blessingsName them one by oneCount your many blessingsSee what God has done
When you look at othersWith their lands and goldThink that Christ has promisedYou His wealth untoldCount your many blessingsMoney cannot buyYour reward in heavenNor your home on high
Count your blessingsName them one by oneCount your blessingsSee what God has doneCount your blessingsName them one by oneCount your many blessingsSee what God has done
So, amid the conflictWhether great or smallDo not be discouragedGod is over allCount your many blessingsAngels will attendHelp and comfort give youTo your journey's end
Count your blessingsName them one by oneCount your blessingsSee what God has doneCount your blessingsName them one by oneCount your many blessingsSee what God has done
"Give me the end of the year an' its fun
When most of the plannin' an' toilin' is done;
Bring all the wanderers home to the nest,
Let me sit down with the ones I love best,
Hear the old voices still ringin' with song,
See the old faces unblemished by wrong,
See the old table with all of its chairs
An' I'll put soul in my Thanksgivin' prayers."
- Edgar A. Guest, Thanksgiving

Our little stinker!

Saturday, November 1, 2008



Q and i went to visit our neighbor's new farm and acreage today. i just wanted to move in. they are painting and will be moving in in about a week. it was so beautiful and quiet. i could just see my family and i resting peacefully and spending what little time we have together someplace like that. more on that later...but combine the pics below to get a glimpse of where the perfect setting for the Lupton farm would be. (anywhere, as long as we're together)

Thursday, October 30, 2008

are you kidding me?

These yummy little nuggets, my friends, (well, SHAWNA :)...) are DEEP FRIED PEPSI. You heard right. At the Indiana state fair, someone had a booth where they mixed up a dough using Pepsi instead of water. Then, just before cooking, they dip the little balls into a Pepsi-based funnel cake batter and throw them in the fryer oil. People say they have the consistency of a doughnut, but taste just like Pepsi. So... dough, Pepsi, and oil, topped with powdered sugar...? Ew.
FOR TODAY ...
Outside My Window...it looks alot warmer than it is...I am NOT ready for winter!

I am thinking...Charlie's going to lose his job.
I am thankful for...pepsi.

From the kitchen...graham crackers now, stir fry tonight.
I am wearing...scrubs...didn't sleep well.

I am creating...a homemade wreath for my front door for Christmas.
I am going...to apply at John Deere online for Charlie today.

I am reading...scripture online.

I am hoping...Charlie doesn't lose his job.

I am hearing...the cleaning ladies talking.
Around the house...warm blankets and good food.
One of my favorite things...the pictures of the boys and Charlie and I at the pumpkin patch.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: pay bills, set a budget, clean, rest....we've all been sick.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

a euphoric, faith-inspired, simplistic state of mind, Thank God

blessings, happiness, simplicity, non-materialism, the little things, hanging out, taking things for what they are, giving thanks to God, less is more, just being happy, choosing to be positive, choosing to be good, choosing to chill out, choosing to let go, learning, sharing, taking the opportunities that come along, living life for your God, your family, and yourself, finding out who you are, choosing what to believe, choosing every second to live by faith and by the commandments and by God's word, taking stock every second of what you have and cherishing it, pushing away the rain cloud, just being calm, getting rid of clutter and things you don't need...in your home, your heart, your mind, your life, walking away from people who aren't following God's path, whether it be in a simple conversation or in life in general, striving for every moment to "count"...we are making the memories and the HOME that our children will remember for the rest of their lives, it's time for mothers to shower their families with what they know best, appreciation for every single thing...every moment and every breath, every situation is an opportunity, show your children the world, don't be afraid of anything!!! tell the people around you exactly what you feel, before they are gone, never waste a chance to show love, appreciation, concern, the word of God. it is so amazing when you feel it! don't worry about anything. be who you are, emphatically! and find peace in knowing that your marriage isn't perfect...it bends and bows like a tree branch when the wind wails, but the more you nourish it on the sunny days, the better it will weather the storm.
FOR TODAY ...

Outside My Window...a bright blue sky and a mama birdy stuffing a piece of cotton into the birdhouse hole. It is so sweet! She is keeping her babies warm.

I am thinking...It's nice to feel the sunshine in my soul again.

I am thankful for...life!

From the kitchen...tonight it's homemade beef stew. My babies love it.

I am wearing...black suit pants, a white lacy tank top, and a grey sweater and black heels.

I am creating...a budget. And I'm planning my "office" in the basement so we can get organized.

I am going...to work out after work today.

I am reading...I have a new James Patterson book at home to start tonight, snuggled in close to my warm husband. (charlie took it!!) so, going to the library to find another one.

I am hoping...for a mild winter.

I am hearing...the song in my head..."Be Not Afraiiiiiiid, I go before you always...."

Around the house...lovingly messy...toys, papers, cookies, laundry in a basket.

One of my favorite things...when charlie and i put a good movie in, turn it down low, turn the lights off, and snuggle as close as possible and end up falling asleep.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: organization! cook some good food to freeze and re-heat for the next 3 weeks that daddy's gone, tying up loose ends at work, taking the boys outside and taking pictures of them, decorating for fall and thanksgiving. Gonna put candy corn lights up and make some turkeys and trees and leaves for the window out of the boys' hands, and lots more.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

"Tough", Craig Morgan

(What I aspire to be!)

She’s in the kitchen at the crack of dawn
Bacon’s on, coffee’s strong
Kids running wild, taking off their clothes
If she’s a nervous wreck, well it never shows
Takes one to football and one to dance
Hits the Y for aerobics class
Drops by the bank, stops at the store
Has on a smile when I walk through the door
The last to go to bed, she’ll be the first one up
And I thought I was tough

She’s strong, pushes on, can’t slow her down
She can take anything life dishes out
There was a time
Back before she was mine
When I thought I was tough

We sat there five years ago
The doctors let us know, the test showed
She’d have to fight to live, I broke down and cried
She held me and said it’s gonna be alright
She wore that wig to church
Pink ribbon pinned there on her shirt
No room for fear, full of faith
Hands held high singing Amazing Grace
Never once complained, refusing to give up
And I thought I was tough

She’s strong, pushes on, can’t slow her down
She can take anything life dishes out
There was a time
Back before she was mine
When I thought I was tough

She’s a gentle word, the sweetest kiss
A velvet touch against my skin
I’ve seen her cry, I’ve seen her break
But in my eyes, she’ll always be strong

There was a time
Back before she was mine
When I thought I was tough

Thursday, October 23, 2008

FOR TODAY ...

Outside My Window...looking out over the field at the trees that are losing their leaves.

I am thinking...I wish I was in the kitchen at Shawna's on a big farm, looking at my house across the land, making something yummy with kids running everywhere.

I am thankful for...God's loving, patient hand guiding my marriage through the tough times.

From the kitchen...tonight I'm making homemade chicken and dumplings.

I am wearing...scrubs...woke up late!

I am creating...a folder of new recipes to try for winter.

I am going...to sew myself to my husband when I get home today.

I am reading...I have a new James Patterson book at home to start tonight, snuggled in close to my warm husband.

I am hoping...the dentist can fix my tooth....Qbug swung his head back and made my bottom jaw slam into my top jaw and my teeth mashed together. Now I have a hairline crack in my front top tooth and it hurts!

I am hearing...my breathing. Quiet in my office today.

Around the house...my best efforts at getting tidy. It's going well. But Charlie's home with Quincy today....I may eat those words later.

One of my favorite things...fresh clean white sockies on fat baby feets.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: oh, be with my husband!!! get the boys' Halloween costumes, pay bills, make a budget, no cleaning...it's family time, I'll clean when Daddy leaves. Here is picture thought I am sharing... ***oh my...what's with the lipstick?? :)

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

They say each child chooses their parents before they are conceived.

God gave me lists of mothers' names
and pictures of them, too...

I looked and looked and they all looked the same
until I saw you.

"Who is this woman?"
I asked the Lord,
"She looks quite nice to me."

He said, "You have chosen well, my child."
And he spoke these words to me:

"She is kind and gentle
and very wise,
and she will hold you close to her when you cry."

"Her eyes will shine
when you take your first step,
and she'll smile at your delight..."

"She will show her pride
when you succeed
and pick you up
when you fail."

"She will work hard
to give you the best she can
and she will rock you to sleep
with weary, time-worn hands."

"She will shelter you on stormy days
and dry your fears away,
she will bask with you in the sunshine
on sunny summer days.

"And when you are grown,
as you soon will be,
she'll still be there
to comfort thee."

"I choose her,"
I told the Lord,
for none like her
I've seen before."

Then the day came
when I was born
and I'd chosen well,
of this I'm sure.

I picked my mommy
above the rest,
and within her heart
my life is blessed.

Travis Tritt-A Great Day to be Alive

I got rice cooking in the microwave
Got a three day beard I don't plan to shave
And it's a goofy thing but I just gotta say
Hey, I'm doing alright
Yeah I think I'll make me some homemade soup
Feelin' pretty good and that's the truth
It's neither drink nor drug induced
No, I'm just doin alright

And it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shinin' when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neighborhood
But why can't every day be just this good?

It's been fifteen years since I left home
Said good luck to every seed I'd sown
Gave it my best and then I left it alone
Oh...I hope their doin' alright
Now I look in the mirror and what do I see?
A lone wolf there starin' back at me
Long in the tooth but harmless as can be
Lord, I guess he's doin alright

And it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shinin' when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neighborhood
But why can't every day be just this good?

Sometimes it's lonely
Sometimes it's only me
And the shadows that fill this room
Sometimes I'm fallin
Desperately callin'
Howlin' at the moon...
Ahwooooooo!

Well, I might go get me a new tattoo
Or take my old Harley for a three day cruise
Might even grow me a Fu Man Chu...

Oh, it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shinin'
when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neighborhood
But why can't every day be just this good?

Montgomery Gentry...Roll With Me

Wake up in the morning
Get to living my life
Making sure that Im all that I can be
Went to church on Sunday
There was a moment that came
I swear it was like the Lord spoke right to me
So now I'm slowing it down and I'm looking around
And I'm lovin' this town and I'm doing alright
Aint' worried 'bout nothing except the man I wanna be
I'm thinking it's time to be livin' the rhyme
When I'm singing a song about nothing but right
And it'd sure be nice if you would roll with me

Saw a kid last winter only twenty years old
Being laid to rest while his mom stood by his side
Sure was hard to watch those tears roll down her face
Made me think how we all just have our time

So now I'm slowing it down and I'm looking around
And I'm lovin this town and I'm doing alright
Aint' worried 'bout nothing except the man I wanna be
I'm thinking it's time to be livin' the rhyme
When I'm singing a song about nothing but right
And it's sure be nice if you would roll with me

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

I looked up the world's healthiest foods...my boys eat like crazy, so i'm excited to pack them full of stuff that's good FOR them, and not just tasty.
Here's what i found...(not in order of health value)

Fruits: raisins, lemons and limes, figs, tomatoes, cranberry juice (real, not juice cocktail), cantaloupe, raspberries, avocado, apricots.

Veggies: onion, artichoke, ginger, broccoli, spinach, bok choy, squash, watercress, arugula, garlic.

Grains, Beans and Nuts: quinoa, wheat germ, lentils, peanuts, pinto beans

Also: yogurt, skim milk, shellfish, salmon and crab.


I'm gona re-vamp our food choices...i'm starting the "baby snack bar" with Q tonight...hope it goes well. (and doesn't go all over the floor.) hayden started his at 9 months, but Q is WAAAY advanced and i think he'll do great.
xoxo



"An angel in the book of life

wrote down our baby's birth

and whispered as she closed the book

'too beautiful for earth.'"



-unknown
"We are preparing our children for LIFE, not simply raising them for now."
-Nanny Deb, "Nanny 911"
"Edward Perman Cole died in May, it was a Sunday afternoon and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. It's difficult to understand the sum of a persons life, some people would tell you it's measured by the ones left behind, some believe it can be measured in faith, some say by love, other folks say life has no meaning at all......Me, I believe you measure yourself by the people who measure themselves by you. What I can tell you for sure is that by any measure, Edward Cole lived more in his last days on earth than most people manage to wring out of a lifetime. I know that when he died his eyes were closed and his heart was opened......"
Opening paragraph, "The Bucket List"

Monday, October 13, 2008

Friday, October 10, 2008

Got a picture of you
I carry in my heart
Close my eyes to see it when the world gets dark
Got a memory of you
I carry in my soul
I wrap it close around me when the nights get cold
If you asked me how Im doin Id say just fine
But the truth is baby, if you could read my mind
Not a day goes by that I dont think of you
After all this time youre still with me its true
Somehow you remain locked so deep inside
Baby, baby, oh baby, not a day goes by

I still wait for the phone in the middle of the night
Thinkin you might call me if your dreams dont turn out right
And it still amazes me that I lie here in the dark
Wishin you were next to me, your head against my heart
If you asked me how Im doing Id say just fine
But the truth is baby, if you could read my mind
Not a day goes by that I dont think of you
After all this time youre still with me its true
Somehow you remain locked so deep inside
Baby, baby, oh baby, not a day goes by
Minutes turn to hours, and the hours to days
Seems its been forever that Ive felt this way
Not a day goes by that I dont think of you
After all this time youre still with me its true
Somehow you remain locked so deep inside
Baby, baby, oh baby, not a day goes by

for you

Every night in my dreams
I see you, I feel you,
That is how I know you go on
Far across the distance
And spaces between us
You have come to show you go on
Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you're here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on
Love can touch us one time
And last for a lifetime
And never let go till we're gone
Love was when I loved you
One true time I hold to
In my life we'll always go on
Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you're here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on
You're here, there's nothing I fear,
And I know that my heart will go on
We'll stay forever this way
You are safe in my heart
And my heart will go on and on

If I Could Take.....

If I could take a minute out of each and every day.

To hold my child close to my heart and kiss her fears away.

If I could take a minute out of each and every week.

To play with blocks and peek-a-boo, tag or hide and seek.

If I could take a minute of any span of time.

I'd never waste a second of the pleasures that were mine.

If she could crawl upon my knee and lay her sleepy head,

upon my shoulder tenderly and dream of gingerbread.

I'd spend my time in total bliss and watch my small daughter grow,

from babyhood to childhood, knowing all there is to know.

If I could stop my aching heart and put my mind asleep,

If I could stop the flow of tears that are always on my cheek.

I only need a minute, Lord, I know she's safe with you.

But there's something real important that I had no time to do.

If you could do it for me, Lord here's a message she should know,

Tell her that I Love her, then I'll let her go.

Author: Debbie Szaroleta

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

yum yum



God bless the woman who invented heels.

Too bad these are six hundred bucks.

FOR TODAY ...
Outside My Window...it is rainy, dark, and beautiful and the birds are all asleep.
I am thinking...how dare you call yourself a Christian.
I am thankful for...the little snowsuit i put on quincy this morning with the pointy ears...we laughed and laughed at him, it was so cute.
From the kitchen...wheat toast with vegetable cream cheese.
I am wearing...tight black sweater, pants that are way too big (yes!) and black heels.
I am creating...dessert with my ladies, in a bit.
I am going...crazy without charlie.
I am reading...365 Day Brighteners...The Gifts of a Grandmother (for my ladies)
I am hoping...all goes smoothly thursday.
I am hearing...nothing. it is so nice.
Around the house...clothes, dishes, toys, papers...
One of my favorite things...rocking my babies together. when quincy lays on my belly and i know he is close to his brother or sister, just for a little while.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: clean, rest, clean, rest, eat.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Thursday, October 2, 2008

I heard this song on the way to WORK. I almost turned around.

Something More
by Sugarland

Monday, hard to wake up
Fill my coffee cup, I'm out the door
Yeah, the freeway's standing still today
It's gonna make me late, and thats for sure
I'm running out of gas and out of time
Never gonna make it there by nine

There's gotta be something more
Gotta be more than this
I need a little less hard time
I need a little more bliss
I'm gonna take my chances
Taking a chance I might
Find what I'm looking for
There's gotta be something more

Five years and there's no doubt
That I'm burned out, I've had enough
now boss man, here's my two weeks
I'll make it short and sweet, so listen up
I could work my life away, but why?
I got things to do before die

Some believe in destiny, and some believe in fate
I believe that happiness is something we create
You best belive that I'm not gonna wait
'Cause there's gotta be something more

I get home, 7:30
the house is dirty, but it can wait
Yeah, 'cause right now I need some downtime
To drink some red wine and celebrate
Armageddon could be knocking at my door
but I ain't gonna answer thats for sure.
There's gotta be something more!
God, make me brave for life:
oh, braver than this.
Let me straighten after pain,
as a tree straightens after the rain,
Shining and lovely again.
God, make me brave for life;
much braver than this.
As the blown grass lifts,
let me rise from sorrow with quiet eyes,
Knowing Thy way is wise.
God, make me brave,
life brings such blinding things.
Help me to keep my sight;
Help me to see that out of dark comes light.
Author Unknown

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Heaven on Earth



My favorite place in the world...I-70 in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. You should see it in the winter...it makes me cry! This is where the connection between my the hearts of my husband and I will always remain. Long after we're gone. This is where I drove over 30 hours in a winter blizzard all by myself just to get him and bring him home to me. It was a very special time in our relationship, and in my life.

Monday, September 29, 2008

a sweet fall treat

This isn't our applesauce but it looks just like it...
We made homemade applesauce in the crock pot today...it is AWESOME!

7 bitter apples (we used granny smith), peeled, cored and sliced very thin

cinnamon (to taste...we used about 1/2 tsp i think)

roughly 1/2 cup sugar

roughly 1/2 cup water


Mix apples with cinnamon and sugar and cook in crock pot for an hour on high. Then, add your water and continue to cook another 3-4 hours on high, depending on your crock pot. (It takes awhile for the apples to soften and it may look watery.) After about 3 hours, run a hand mixer thru it every half hour or so to mash up the apples even further. mmmmm!

Thursday, September 25, 2008

:x

Love from Mama, Daddy and your big brothers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXQwPXd0_eI
"The Lord called me before my birth; from within the womb He called me by name." Isaiah 49:1

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

?


why do people buy those fake lawn deer? am i missing out on something cool here?

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Quote of the Day

"Laughter is God's hand on the shoulder of a troubled world."
-Anonymous

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

oh please!


so i went online to help shawna and i find some tips on getting the house organized and keeping it up. i googled: "how to keep your house clean". HA! all i got was ways to UPKEEP your house. what if it's never clean to begin with?! it's nice to know "your sink will remain shiny and fresh if you spritz it with lemon, vinegar and water and wipe it down after doing the dishes." well.....i was looking for something to tell me how to get the dishes done in the first place.

:)


i just had a good moment. i went and picked up hayden from school--early out--and took him to the sitter while i work one more hour. actually, i watched him walk from the school to sheryl's just to be sure he knew exactly what to do. it's only 2 blocks, but i feel better after watching him do it. he did great. and as he was walking, i was driving on the road beside him and he yells, "mom! can we get some kit kats after work?" he's so cute. when we made it to sheryl's i gave my babies a hug and q was sitting outside on a blankie, chewing. it was sooooo nice outside and my boys were fat and happy and having fun. they were both really excited to see me and q laughed and laughed when i picked him up. as i was leaving, hayden gave me a big hug and kissed and rubbed my belly. "brother", he said. i promptly yelled "sisser!" and we both smiled. i got in my car and rolled all the windows down and headed back to work. i turned the radio on and one of my very favorite songs was on..."snap yo fingers" by lil jon. (college days!) so i cranked it and baby sisser and i rocked out all the way to work, and i wasn't even late getting back. if charlie were here, it would have been perfect.

Leann Rimes--"Some People"



Isn't it a gamble Layin' your heart out on the floor Nothin' short of a miracle When you find the one you're looking for It's another kind of trouble trying to hang on to who you are When all you wanna do is lose yourself in someone else's arms Isn't it a wonder that we got this far

Some people aren't lucky like us Some people they just give up When the hard times fall The thrill of it all is gone Leaves you in a cloud of dust It's sad to think that some won't find it And others won't recognize it even when it comes We're all at the mercy of the will of love Some people yeah Some people aren't lucky like us

Two lonely souls that just stumbled into fate Look how much we've been given babe In spite of all of our mistakes And I will never forget I've been blessed with the gift of lovin' you And when the going aint easy babe A little faith will pull us through Thank God we have each other we can hang onto

Some people aren't lucky like us Some people they just give up When the hard times fall The thrill of it all is gone Leaves you in a cloud of dust It's sad to think that some won't find it And others won't recognize it even when it comes We're all at the mercy of the will of love Some people yeahSome people aren't lucky like us

To have someone you can laugh with Someone you can cry with Tell all your secrets to To have someone who won't judge you Someone who just loves you No matter what, they stand beside you...

Some people aren't lucky like us Some people they just give up When the hard times fall The thrill of it all is gone Leaves you in a cloud of dust It's sad to think that some won't find it And others won't recognize it even when it comes We're all at the mercy of the will of love Some people yeah Some people aren't lucky like us

urp

hallelujah, i'm feeling very pregnant today. i'm on my 3rd bologna sandwich in 30 minutes, i've eaten half a bag of cool ranch doritos...(no, no...not the snack-sized bag), and i dry heaved at the stoplight on the square on my way to work this morning. As if i wasn't hormonally-charged enough, the old guy behind me started honking when the light turned green and i still hadn't moved. all i've gotta say is thank the Lord that men aren't responsible for carrying the babies...the human race would be in danger of extinction. there's no way they'd be *just fine* with peeling a sleepy 7-year old out of bed while hauling around a drooling, biting, into-everything 6-month old and trying not to hurl as you're frying eggs and grading homework at the same time. or, on some mornings, frying homework and grading eggs.

Monday, September 15, 2008

jason mraz--"lucky"...for charlie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtX0eo4WjgY
Do you hear me, Talking to you Across the water across the deep blue ocean Under the open sky, oh my, baby I'm trying Boy I hear you in my dreams I feel your whisper across the sea I keep you with me in my heart You make it easier when life gets hard Lucky I'm in love with my best friend Lucky to have been where I have been Lucky to be coming home again Ooohh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh They don't know how long it takes Waiting for a love like this Every time we say goodbye I wish we had one more kiss I'll wait for you I promise you, I will Lucky I'm in love with my best friend Lucky to have been where I have been Lucky to be coming home again Lucky we're in love every way Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed Lucky to be coming home someday And so I'm sailing through the sea To an island where we'll meet You'll hear the music fill the air I'll put a flower in your hair though the breezes through trees Move so pretty you're all I see As the world keeps spinning round You hold me right here right now Lucky I'm in love with my best friend Lucky to have been where I have been Lucky to be coming home again Lucky we're in love every way Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed Lucky to be coming home someday

jason mraz--"i'm yours"...for charlie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkHTsc9PU2A
well you done done me and you bet i felt it i tried to get you but you're so hot that i melted i fell right through the cracks and i'm trying to get back before the cool done run out i'll be giving it my bestest nothin's going to stop me but devine intervention i reckon its again my turn to win some or learn some i won't hesitate no more no more it cannot wait, i'm yours well open up your mind and see like me open up your plans and damn you're free look into your heart and you'll find love love love listen to the music of the moment maybe sing with me ah la peaceful melody its your godforsaken right to be loved love loved love love so i won't hesitate no more no more it cannot wait i'm sure theres no need to complicate our time is short this is our fate, i'm yours i been spending way too long checking my tongue in the mirror and bendin over backwards just to try to see it clearer my breath fogged up the glass so i drew a new face and laughed i guess what i'm sayin is there ain't no better reason to rid yourself of vanity and just go with the seasons its what we aim to do our name is our virtue i won't hesitate no more no more it cannot wait i'm sure theres no need to complicate our time is short it cannot wait, i'm yours

Gulf Coast Highway, Emmylou Harris

Gulf coast highway, he worked the rails
He worked the rice fields with their cold dark wells
He worked the oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico
The only thing we've owned is this old house here by the road
And when he dies he says he'll catch some blackbird's wing
And we will fly away to heaven
Come some sweet blue bonnet spring
She walked through springtime when I was home
The days were sweet, our nights were warm
The seasons changed, the jobs would come
The flowers fade, and this old house felt so alone
When the work took me away
And when she dies she says she'll catch some blackbird's wing
And she will fly away to heaven
Come some sweet blue bonnet spring
Highway 90, the jobs are gone
We kept our garden, we set the sun
This is the only place on Earth blue bonnets grow
And once a year they come and go
At this old house here by the road
And when we die we say we'll catch some blackbird's wing
And we will fly away to heaven
Come some sweet blue bonnet spring

the edge of the wharf


in santa barbara, there was *something* about standing on the edge of the wharf. you could literally just walk off into the ocean. it was almost dark and the water looked black. there was such a peacefulness to it and it seemed like it was only me standing there. all of the noises from the restaurants and cars suddenly dissappeared and i seemed to be transported momentarily. like nothing in the world really mattered...life is so much bigger than our chore lists and meetings and bills. for that moment, life stopped and i was beside myself. i will never forget it.

yes

"The sweetest flowers in all the world-a baby's hands."
-Swinburne

baby blues?

or pinks? i'm still in awe of the "state" i'm in...it's almost surreal! to be a mother...to carry and create and nurture a child...there is nothing more precious. i've been really scared of the timing of this thing...................:) but what a wonderful challenge...opportunity...blessing. i cry at the thought of feeling little twitters in a few weeks. and seeing my husband's face when he comes home and we embrace for the first time since "the news". those are the moments in life that make it all worthwhile. who cares about WORK? who cares! we are only here *together* for a little while, and i have found a new faith that tugs me toward living simply, living RIGHT, living as i should, and spending every waking moment with my children and my husband.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

here goes

i don't even have time to create my first blog! ha! more later...