It's been a couple months since I've been able to type out my gratitude list, but I love that I can resume at any time. I'm struggling to find rhythm in the summer, but am enjoying it all the same.
Today I am thankful for:
1. Spiderman Fruit Snacks
During his lunchtime prayer yesterday, Paul said, "Thank you God for the Spiderman Fruit Snacks that Mama bought that were on sale at ALDI." I love both is gratitude for the snacks and the recognition of the money-saving aspect as well.
2. Perfect presents
Claire and Paul both celebrated birthdays recently and several people bought them items that we all cheered for. It was great to hear the kids saying, "Ms. X always picks out the best things for my birthday." Or "I have been wanting this forever! I am so excited!"
3. Friends that make you take care of yourself.
On Saturday, my friend Stacy noticed a bite on my arm and told me I better take care of it or I would get my arm chopped off. I didn't think it was a big deal, but since I was headed to the doctor on Monday anyway, I went ahead and mentioned it. I now think it was a spider bite and I am so glad she made me ask the doctor about it because it got worse before it got better and that's just like me to throw some hydrocortisone on it and forget about it.
4. Friends far away.
Claire's godfather, Chris and his wife, Ashley, live in Kansas, so we don't get to see them very often. Chris had to come to town last week, though, and made sure to have dinner with us. Though we hadn't seen him in nearly a year, all four of us picked right back up where we left off. Next week we are taking a short trip to Galveston where we will meet another friend whom we haven't seen in a while. I am so grateful that we can feel loved all over the USA.
5. Manual sprinklers
We do have a sprinkler system, but tree roots screwed it up and Adam has been unable to repair it yet. We also have this handy dandy tool called a "hose" where we hook on something called a "sprinkler" and it works great. I just turn it on and move the hose occasionally and presto! the yard doesn't look as brown.
6. Internet coupons
I thought I was awesome at cutting coupons from the newspaper, but now I get emails about Internet coupons for even more cutting goodness. I like to call myself a professional grocery shopper.
7. A marketing plan that I made
I am learning so much at my job. This week I created a marketing plan so for every major event we have approaching, I have mapped out a uniform way to promote it instead of trying to remember everything. I am so excited to put this into use!
8. My husband
I just want to note that I believe Adam Boyette kicks ass. He's in charge of games at VBS this week and every night he's outside in a bathrobe and headscarf leading groups of kids in funny games. He's good at it. I'm grateful for that as well as the way he can say one word to me and make me laugh so hard I can't breathe.
9. A place for my grandpa
My grandfather recently moved to an assisted living facility. He loves it and is doing well. So well in fact, that now he needs new clothes, new shoes, and new housewares for the new home. I'm so glad he's got his desire to live and some spark back.
10. A fly killing machine
We have fruit flies in our house, which I have experimented in killing a number of different ways. The most effective way has been a gift that Stacy and Matt gave Adam for his birthday. It's called FlyWeb Fly Light and it combines an attractive light with flypaper so the flies are drawn to it and then stuck. You can buy it here.
Here's a place where Sarah writes what's on her heart and mind for whomever will read it. Sometimes it's hilarious, sometimes it's little pieces of life that I'm grateful for. Enjoy!
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Friday, June 22, 2012
Worth a Read
Here's an article I came across that is worth a read. It was written by Kare Anderson of the Harvard Business Review blog. I am always trying to figure out how to be a better listener.
If you don't have time to read the whole article, read this at least:
"To learn about your own attention patterns, examine someone else's. Most motivational speakers, self-help writers, therapists and pharmacologists encourage us to focus on "me." They suggest that we look inward to understand and improve ourselves for a happier, better life. That's not wrong; it is just incomplete. Instead of just asking, "What most preoccupies me? Does it make the world seem welcoming or withholding?" reach out to someone else. Be the best listener they've had in months. This is the first and most basic ingredient in any interaction. Simply gazing steadily and warmly at that person, nodding at times and reiterating what you heard will activate an empathic, mirror-neuron response in both of you.
Giving and receiving undivided attention, even briefly, is the least that one individual can do for another — and sometimes the most. And yet, attending to others doesn't just help them — it helps us, by evoking responses that help the listener feel cared for, useful, and connected to the larger world. Paying attention may be an individual effort, but it's also a kind of social cement that holds groups together and helps them feel part of something greater than themselves. It's not always easy, but you can improve with practice — and find yourself becoming more flexible, more open to new ideas, and better able to resonate with others. Inevitably that leads to a richer, more meaningful life."
Must focus my attention today.
If you don't have time to read the whole article, read this at least:
"To learn about your own attention patterns, examine someone else's. Most motivational speakers, self-help writers, therapists and pharmacologists encourage us to focus on "me." They suggest that we look inward to understand and improve ourselves for a happier, better life. That's not wrong; it is just incomplete. Instead of just asking, "What most preoccupies me? Does it make the world seem welcoming or withholding?" reach out to someone else. Be the best listener they've had in months. This is the first and most basic ingredient in any interaction. Simply gazing steadily and warmly at that person, nodding at times and reiterating what you heard will activate an empathic, mirror-neuron response in both of you.
Giving and receiving undivided attention, even briefly, is the least that one individual can do for another — and sometimes the most. And yet, attending to others doesn't just help them — it helps us, by evoking responses that help the listener feel cared for, useful, and connected to the larger world. Paying attention may be an individual effort, but it's also a kind of social cement that holds groups together and helps them feel part of something greater than themselves. It's not always easy, but you can improve with practice — and find yourself becoming more flexible, more open to new ideas, and better able to resonate with others. Inevitably that leads to a richer, more meaningful life."
Must focus my attention today.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
First Week of Summer Recap
We are in full-on summer mode around here. Here's some photos to recap our first week. My last post told everyone what we did last Monday. I am learning that it seems that we will have one day of academic excellence and awesome activities followed by a day that everything moves slower. That's okay, though. It's summer.
Last Tuesday night was the transit of Venus. Apparently the next time Venus will pass in front of the sun where we can see it on Earth will be 100 years from now, so Adam made sure we got to see it.
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| At the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, they had many professional telescopes set up on their front lawn. You'll have to ask Adam to explain all this, but this is a picture of the reflection of what was happening in the sky. The white circle is the sun and the dot is Venus. |
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| Here Claire and Paul were looking through a fancy telescope. I have an eyeball phobia (seriously) and everyone kept telling each other not to look directly at the sun because their eyes would burn up and they'd be blind. I couldn't tell you what any one's faces looked like that night, but I can tell you about their ankles. I kept my face to the ground the whole time. |
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| This facial expression is what Paul looks like at the beginning of swim lessons. For some reason, he has a lot of anxiety about it and it takes him several minutes to warm up to it. We're taking lessons at the Benbrook YMCA and both kids teachers are fantastic. |
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| Here's Claire jumping into 7 foot deep water. |
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Here's Claire with Miss Alli, floating on her back in 7 foot water.
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Monday, June 4, 2012
The First Day of Summer
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| My plans for the week. |
Other goals include learning the names of all the planets, learning to add and subtract (Claire), learning to count to 100 (Paul), and learning all the state names. Yes, I know that some of these are high goals, but I'm trying to shoot for the moon and no matter what, they will be learning.
Last night I got ready for this morning. We have swim lessons at 11 a.m., so from 8 to 10:30 a.m., I planned on teaching.
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| Here are the kids reading words, math facts, and journal prompt for the day. Yes, Paul is still three and I'm making him write in a journal. Mostly he drew, which is just fine. |
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| Claire was excited to get to work. She didn't even want to put on regular clothes, but got to work in her pajamas. It was the first day of swim lessons at the Benbrook YMCA. Claire was in a beginning swim class, but she and her classmates did so well that the teacher advanced the entire class. Now she's in a "Can Swim" class. |
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| Paul was more apprehensive than we anticipated, but Mr. Marco got him going pretty well by the end of the swim lesson. We love that both kids are in extremely small classes. Paul's class has five kids and Claire's has three. |
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| This afternoon we visited the Wedgwood Branch of the Fort Worth Public Library to see Lucas Miller present Science Rocks! This guy is hilarious, and if you get a chance to see him, do it. He sang songs about animals and other zoological issues. He even rapped and wore different costumes. Claire and Paul were picked from the audience to be backup dancers. |
Saturday, June 2, 2012
What Would Wax Jesus Do?
I would like to preface this post with the statement "I love Jesus!" That being said, here is my tale of Wax Jesus.
A few months ago in my church atrium, I found a little business card someone had left. The card advertised a life-size wax interpretation of Leonardo Da Vinci's painting, the Lord's Supper. I did some research on it and found out it is at the Christian Arts Museum, pretty close to church, but only open during business hours. I was intrigued, but didn't feel this was worthy of making Adam miss work. Nor did I want to take the kids in case it was slightly too realistic and unsettling. Instead, I took my pal, Rev. Jason Valendy to see Wax Jesus. Jason is in the process of moving churches, so I wanted to make sure to pin him down before he moved away.
Lucky for us, a docent was on the scene who told us all about the sculpture. Apparently in the 1950s there was a very rich family in Fort Worth. Somehow they had opportunity to view a life-size wax sculpture of Leonardo Da Vinci's painting, The Last Supper, and they were so moved by it that they took money to commission an identical setup here. A mother and daughter team from a small town in Germany crafted each figure with wax, paper maiche, and REAL HUMAN HAIR! The docent made note of the authenticity of the hair several times.
It was made in 1954 and was on display at a local religious television station for a number of years. Then they put it in storage for around 20 years and have recently brought it back out. Apparently each body part was crafted individually and was stored as such. I don't know the details of who kept this sculpture or where, but the docent told us there were cardboard boxes filled with hands, others with feet, and others with heads. A skilled wax artist was hired from the Palace of Wax in Grand Prairie. The artist was able to match up the hands, feet, and heads to recreate the sculptures to their initial splendor. The hair, being REAL HUMAN HAIR, must be dry-cleaned once a year with a powder shampoo, similar to ones used in nursing homes.
In my personal life, I see Jesus and God in a number of places. Walking down the street to Claire's school, I thank God for birds, trees, and various other parts of nature. Offering hugs to friends is another time when I feel God's presence. To me, anywhere where I am a witness to love, I am also a witness to God. That being said, looking at Wax Jesus did not make me feel closer to him. It just made me feel creeped out.
I don't mean to judge those who see Wax Jesus as a gateway to a stronger faith life. More power to them, I say. I was fascinated by the stories the docent told us of mysteries surrounding the sculptures, like the reason Jesus' hair has faded over time but the other sculptures' hair is the same color. And the time that no lights would work except for the one above Judas. But personally, seeing Wax Jesus satisfied some sense of morbid curiosity in me, not my faith.
A few months ago in my church atrium, I found a little business card someone had left. The card advertised a life-size wax interpretation of Leonardo Da Vinci's painting, the Lord's Supper. I did some research on it and found out it is at the Christian Arts Museum, pretty close to church, but only open during business hours. I was intrigued, but didn't feel this was worthy of making Adam miss work. Nor did I want to take the kids in case it was slightly too realistic and unsettling. Instead, I took my pal, Rev. Jason Valendy to see Wax Jesus. Jason is in the process of moving churches, so I wanted to make sure to pin him down before he moved away.
Lucky for us, a docent was on the scene who told us all about the sculpture. Apparently in the 1950s there was a very rich family in Fort Worth. Somehow they had opportunity to view a life-size wax sculpture of Leonardo Da Vinci's painting, The Last Supper, and they were so moved by it that they took money to commission an identical setup here. A mother and daughter team from a small town in Germany crafted each figure with wax, paper maiche, and REAL HUMAN HAIR! The docent made note of the authenticity of the hair several times. |
| Wax Jesus. His hair has faded over time, but others' haven't. |
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| Oh yeah, that's me, right in front of Wax Jesus himself. |
In my personal life, I see Jesus and God in a number of places. Walking down the street to Claire's school, I thank God for birds, trees, and various other parts of nature. Offering hugs to friends is another time when I feel God's presence. To me, anywhere where I am a witness to love, I am also a witness to God. That being said, looking at Wax Jesus did not make me feel closer to him. It just made me feel creeped out.
I don't mean to judge those who see Wax Jesus as a gateway to a stronger faith life. More power to them, I say. I was fascinated by the stories the docent told us of mysteries surrounding the sculptures, like the reason Jesus' hair has faded over time but the other sculptures' hair is the same color. And the time that no lights would work except for the one above Judas. But personally, seeing Wax Jesus satisfied some sense of morbid curiosity in me, not my faith.
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| I don't know which disciple this is supposed to be (I think Peter), but his eyes really gave me the willies. |
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| Judas is in the center of this picture, and we're supposed to notice his hands raised in frustration and the salt and pepper toppled over by him. |
Monday, April 23, 2012
My Pinterest Birthday Garden
I have fallen prey to Pinterest, the online pin board system. I love looking at new recipes and ideas to make life easier and prettier. One idea I wanted to try was the pallet garden. I've tried gardening a few times with containers or my flower beds, with limited success due to weeds or drought. I liked this pallet garden idea because it was raised for better drainage and easier weeding. My birthday was coming up, so I used that as an excuse to get help setting this up. We picked up some pallets beside a gas station dumpster. When we got the best looking one outside, Adam decided it needed a base. |
So we pried boards off the other rejected pallets, as shown here. The kids had recently attended a Sears how to workshop and each have their own personal hammer, which they were happy to put to use. |
After Adam slid boards in the bottom, we filled it with dirt and planted vegetables. It's growing great! Here the kids are with the finished project. They looked a little worn out.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
You Might Be a Nerd If...
You make sight word door decorations for your kids.
Yesterday Claire's teacher sent us home with the list of all the first grade sight words. That's right, first grade. She said that if Claire can read all of those, she can be on a second grade reading level by the end of the year! Woot! So I got inspired and have been drilling her secretly on the words ever since. She doesn't realize that writing the words and decorating her door helps her learn them. As does watching Mama do high kicks for every word she reads right. Next stop: sight word hop scotch!
Friday, April 20, 2012
Gratitude List
I am so blessed. Examining any aspect of my life brings forth laundry lists of blessings. For example, the laundry on the couch reminds me that everyone in my family is blessed with nice clothes that fit and look good. The couch is from IKEA and makes me thankful for both sturdy furniture we can afford and a husband with skills to put said furniture together.
Here's my official list, in no particular order:
Today I am thankful for:
1. Kashi cereal
It's healthy, and it doesn't get soggy when I have to stop eating to go turn on a light for Paul or to let a dog out.
2. Wake-up Dog
I was considering sleeping in a little and enjoying the rain, but Sugar Dot heard my alarm and knew it was time to get up. I was forced to sit upright to avoid more licks on the face.
3. My new workout partner
Last week Paul rode his scooter while I biked around the neighborhood. I had to keep my legs moving to keep pace with that boy. It was such a great workout that this week we hit the Trinity Trails. I walked/jogged and he scooted. I think we covered a mile each way. I had to work hard to keep pace with that scooter, which was good for me. He got to keep picking up sticks and bugs, which was good for him.
4. Main Street Arts Festival
The kids and I went with our neighbors yesterday. I was disappointed that there were less free activities for the kids, but I enjoyed pulling the wagon around and showing the kids different types of artwork. Paul's favorite part was standing and watching a man play the guitar. He also loved climbing the 28 ft. tall rock wall. Claire loved getting a free rubber duck and seeing paintings of horses.
5. Lunch with Claire
On Wednesday, we took Claire lunch. It's so fun sitting amongst kindergartners and listening to each child's excitement at the day. Claire's teacher always tells me Paul and I don't have to sit in the middle of the class table, but that's what we love to do. I get to hear the high points of the day from Claire and all her friends. Plus, if she has any tater tots or apples left over, we just pass them down the table. I am blessed that my schedule permits me to do such fun activities.
6. Gardening success (knock on wood)
A few weeks ago, we planted a pallet garden for my birthday. It is thriving. We haven't gotten any vegetables or fruit yet, but the leaves look great and we know it's just a matter of time. We've got rosemary, oregano, strawberries, bell pepper, squash, and watermelon plants growing in a discarded wooden pallet. I love it!
7. Cardboard box giveaway
Last week I was having a day where I wasn't feeling like a very good mother. We'd had some discipline issues that day and I was frustrated. The doorbell ringing changed all that. Our next door neighbor had just bought a new dryer and he offered the empty box to the kids. Claire and Paul were elated. Our neighbor went on to tell me for several minutes what good parents Adam and I are. It changed my entire outlook on the day.
8. Coupon sharing
My mother-in-law is a couponer like myself. For years now, we've cut out the coupons we wanted and then shared the leftovers. We don't buy the same things, so I get excited about double coupons.
9. Surprise visit from a friend
My friend Melody has been visiting occasionally to pray and talk. We'd missed a few weeks due to hectic schedules, and Monday morning when I had a moment of calm, I regretted not calling and inviting her to come over. Just about that time the doorbell rang and she came over. I was so happy.
10. Healthy home
The kids have been fighting illnesses on a rotating basis the last month, but we are currently all healthy and happy.
11. School carnival
The kids got to live out a dream of having rainbow hair at the Bruce Shulkey carnival. Though Claire's only in kindergarten, we've been going to it for several years. The PTA does a great job of putting together a smoothly organized event with tons of people and fun.
12. Birthday love
My birthday fell on Good Friday this year. Claire had a school holiday, so Adam took the day off as well. We planted a garden, hung around the house, went for hamburgers, and then trekked to the Half Price Books headquarters in Dallas. It was a birthday that I savored every minute. The next day we went for an Easter gathering for my side of the family, which turned into a surprise birthday party for my uncle and I. I felt so loved.
13. Organization hope and help
I am constantly striving to keep the house cleaner and more organized. I am so grateful that there are email lists that I can subscribe to that offer tips and tricks on this. Seeing it in my inbox keeps it on the forefront of my mind and has ended up with greater success. I won't say we're organized yet, but we're on the road to it. (Here's the two list that I subscribe to FREE: http://www.simplify101.com/
and http://simplemom.net/)
14. Crochet for Jesus
My friend Lana is teaching me how to crochet as a spiritual discipline. She says the names of the Trinity when she crochets, but I'm a beginner, so I've stuck with "Grace and peace, grace and peace, grace and peace." I only know chain-stitching right now and not very well apparently. After four days of practice, she told me to make it tighter and start over. It's okay. That's just more grace and peace for me. She tells me I will appreciate this when I'm awesome at crocheting. I'll let you know.
15. Sprinklertime
It's already summer weather here, so the kids are loving jumping on the trampoline with the sprinkler on top. I'm sure neighbors a block away can hear the giggles; the kids are ecstatic. Even when Paul is home with just me and does it, I have to just sit and observe the sheer happiness that comes from the sprinkler on the trampoline.
16. Apology letters
The other day Claire misbehaved and wrote me a lovely apology note. I made her do that for her teacher once when she was on red, but for her to do it on her own to me was remarkable.
17. Power Rangers fights
I don't know if my readers have ever watched Super Samurai Power Rangers, but I wouldn't recommend it. I feel my brain cells dying when I pass by the TV and it's on. In my defense, I've only let the kids watch it when they are sick, mostly. Despite the dumbness of watching models jump around and fight Moogers (yep, sounds like boogers), I am thankful that it inspires my children to play. Our kitchen has become a battlefield for Moogers and Power Rangers. Claire is one of the girl Power Rangers; she rotates depending on mood. Paul is always the Gold Ranger, Antonio. My legs were sore this week from all the high kicks I had to do as the bad guys.
18. Competitive gratitude from the children
I bought each child a $1 clearance Easter stuffed animal from Wal-Mart last week. They were competing to see who was more thankful. "Mama, thank you so much," one would say. "No, Mama, thank you so so much," the other one would say. By the time I had to stop it, they were saying, "Mama, thank you so so so so so so so so so so much!"
19. Indifference about material items
Time and time again, this has happened. I have finally learned my lesson and stopped interfering. Paul will come up to me and tell me how much he likes a particular small ball or other toy. Then Claire will come in pouting, saying, "I wish I had that same exact item." Then Paul turns to her and gives it to her with a "You can have this, Claire." It breaks my heart to see him giving away items he just professed love to, but isn't that how we're supposed to be with material things? It's just stuff and we've got a lot of it. I've talked to Claire a few times about asking for what's not hers, but sometimes she's not even asking for it, just observing that she would like a toy like that. Those kids teach me life lessons every day.
20. A parenting plan
Adam and I attended a Love and Logic class when Claire was a baby. It was awesome because it gave us a parenting plan. We are nearly always on the same page as far as discipline. We have the same goals and a plan of how to get to them. We never have to argue about disciplining the children because we have a parenting plan. (Note that I didn't say we never argue. We just never argue about discipline. Rather, we consult each other. I wanted to put that in for those who might mistakenly think we are actually perfect. Not so.)
Woohoo! That's a lot of gratitude! Now off to wake the kids!
Here's my official list, in no particular order:
Today I am thankful for:
1. Kashi cereal
It's healthy, and it doesn't get soggy when I have to stop eating to go turn on a light for Paul or to let a dog out.
2. Wake-up Dog
I was considering sleeping in a little and enjoying the rain, but Sugar Dot heard my alarm and knew it was time to get up. I was forced to sit upright to avoid more licks on the face.
3. My new workout partner
Last week Paul rode his scooter while I biked around the neighborhood. I had to keep my legs moving to keep pace with that boy. It was such a great workout that this week we hit the Trinity Trails. I walked/jogged and he scooted. I think we covered a mile each way. I had to work hard to keep pace with that scooter, which was good for me. He got to keep picking up sticks and bugs, which was good for him.
4. Main Street Arts Festival
The kids and I went with our neighbors yesterday. I was disappointed that there were less free activities for the kids, but I enjoyed pulling the wagon around and showing the kids different types of artwork. Paul's favorite part was standing and watching a man play the guitar. He also loved climbing the 28 ft. tall rock wall. Claire loved getting a free rubber duck and seeing paintings of horses.
5. Lunch with Claire
On Wednesday, we took Claire lunch. It's so fun sitting amongst kindergartners and listening to each child's excitement at the day. Claire's teacher always tells me Paul and I don't have to sit in the middle of the class table, but that's what we love to do. I get to hear the high points of the day from Claire and all her friends. Plus, if she has any tater tots or apples left over, we just pass them down the table. I am blessed that my schedule permits me to do such fun activities.
6. Gardening success (knock on wood)
A few weeks ago, we planted a pallet garden for my birthday. It is thriving. We haven't gotten any vegetables or fruit yet, but the leaves look great and we know it's just a matter of time. We've got rosemary, oregano, strawberries, bell pepper, squash, and watermelon plants growing in a discarded wooden pallet. I love it!
7. Cardboard box giveaway
Last week I was having a day where I wasn't feeling like a very good mother. We'd had some discipline issues that day and I was frustrated. The doorbell ringing changed all that. Our next door neighbor had just bought a new dryer and he offered the empty box to the kids. Claire and Paul were elated. Our neighbor went on to tell me for several minutes what good parents Adam and I are. It changed my entire outlook on the day.
8. Coupon sharing
My mother-in-law is a couponer like myself. For years now, we've cut out the coupons we wanted and then shared the leftovers. We don't buy the same things, so I get excited about double coupons.
9. Surprise visit from a friend
My friend Melody has been visiting occasionally to pray and talk. We'd missed a few weeks due to hectic schedules, and Monday morning when I had a moment of calm, I regretted not calling and inviting her to come over. Just about that time the doorbell rang and she came over. I was so happy.
10. Healthy home
The kids have been fighting illnesses on a rotating basis the last month, but we are currently all healthy and happy.
11. School carnival
The kids got to live out a dream of having rainbow hair at the Bruce Shulkey carnival. Though Claire's only in kindergarten, we've been going to it for several years. The PTA does a great job of putting together a smoothly organized event with tons of people and fun.
12. Birthday love
My birthday fell on Good Friday this year. Claire had a school holiday, so Adam took the day off as well. We planted a garden, hung around the house, went for hamburgers, and then trekked to the Half Price Books headquarters in Dallas. It was a birthday that I savored every minute. The next day we went for an Easter gathering for my side of the family, which turned into a surprise birthday party for my uncle and I. I felt so loved.
13. Organization hope and help
I am constantly striving to keep the house cleaner and more organized. I am so grateful that there are email lists that I can subscribe to that offer tips and tricks on this. Seeing it in my inbox keeps it on the forefront of my mind and has ended up with greater success. I won't say we're organized yet, but we're on the road to it. (Here's the two list that I subscribe to FREE: http://www.simplify101.com/
and http://simplemom.net/)
14. Crochet for Jesus
My friend Lana is teaching me how to crochet as a spiritual discipline. She says the names of the Trinity when she crochets, but I'm a beginner, so I've stuck with "Grace and peace, grace and peace, grace and peace." I only know chain-stitching right now and not very well apparently. After four days of practice, she told me to make it tighter and start over. It's okay. That's just more grace and peace for me. She tells me I will appreciate this when I'm awesome at crocheting. I'll let you know.
15. Sprinklertime
It's already summer weather here, so the kids are loving jumping on the trampoline with the sprinkler on top. I'm sure neighbors a block away can hear the giggles; the kids are ecstatic. Even when Paul is home with just me and does it, I have to just sit and observe the sheer happiness that comes from the sprinkler on the trampoline.
16. Apology letters
The other day Claire misbehaved and wrote me a lovely apology note. I made her do that for her teacher once when she was on red, but for her to do it on her own to me was remarkable.
17. Power Rangers fights
I don't know if my readers have ever watched Super Samurai Power Rangers, but I wouldn't recommend it. I feel my brain cells dying when I pass by the TV and it's on. In my defense, I've only let the kids watch it when they are sick, mostly. Despite the dumbness of watching models jump around and fight Moogers (yep, sounds like boogers), I am thankful that it inspires my children to play. Our kitchen has become a battlefield for Moogers and Power Rangers. Claire is one of the girl Power Rangers; she rotates depending on mood. Paul is always the Gold Ranger, Antonio. My legs were sore this week from all the high kicks I had to do as the bad guys.
18. Competitive gratitude from the children
I bought each child a $1 clearance Easter stuffed animal from Wal-Mart last week. They were competing to see who was more thankful. "Mama, thank you so much," one would say. "No, Mama, thank you so so much," the other one would say. By the time I had to stop it, they were saying, "Mama, thank you so so so so so so so so so so much!"
19. Indifference about material items
Time and time again, this has happened. I have finally learned my lesson and stopped interfering. Paul will come up to me and tell me how much he likes a particular small ball or other toy. Then Claire will come in pouting, saying, "I wish I had that same exact item." Then Paul turns to her and gives it to her with a "You can have this, Claire." It breaks my heart to see him giving away items he just professed love to, but isn't that how we're supposed to be with material things? It's just stuff and we've got a lot of it. I've talked to Claire a few times about asking for what's not hers, but sometimes she's not even asking for it, just observing that she would like a toy like that. Those kids teach me life lessons every day.
20. A parenting plan
Adam and I attended a Love and Logic class when Claire was a baby. It was awesome because it gave us a parenting plan. We are nearly always on the same page as far as discipline. We have the same goals and a plan of how to get to them. We never have to argue about disciplining the children because we have a parenting plan. (Note that I didn't say we never argue. We just never argue about discipline. Rather, we consult each other. I wanted to put that in for those who might mistakenly think we are actually perfect. Not so.)
Woohoo! That's a lot of gratitude! Now off to wake the kids!
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
The Bracelet: A lesson in humility
Before my paternal grandmother died, she gave me a gold bracelet. It's a family heirloom and has been worn at our family's weddings for about 100 years. She told me it was mine to keep, with one exception. When my sister got married, I was to let her wear it to the ceremony.
My grandmother passed away at about the same time the rift between my parents and me was growing. Six years later, my sister is about to get married.
I am not invited.
Of course I remembered the bracelet, but I also remember my grandmother, and her no-nonsense ways. If she were still alive, I believe many of my family dynamics would be different. I'm not sure what she would say about the bracelet. I'm sure she assumed I would be invited to my only sibling's wedding.
So though I know about the wedding from the invitations sent to my grandfather's home, I wasn't going to offer the bracelet.
My granddad remembered it anyway.
When the initial realization hit me that my family would not be invited to my sister's wedding, I had to take several days to mentally re-frame the situation and realize that this isn't about me. I am not the central person in this problem. Maybe our exclusion is more about my parents' and sister's problems than mine.
Feeling confident in my healthy perspective, I was dealt another lesson in humility when my grandfather called me to ask about the bracelet. He didn't realize it was in my possession, and asked me to bring it to his house so we could talk about it and he could send it to my sister.
I made him promise I would get it back.
Because I loved my grandmother and I love my grandfather today, I brought the bracelet to his house. Again I reminded myself that I was doing this for them, and it wasn't about me.
My grandfather and I sat in his office talking and he got out all the materials he would need to mail the bracelet. He handed them to me and asked me to take it to the post office.
My grandfather wasn't being insensitive. He's 87 and is trying to drive as little as possible. Taking a package to the post office is overwhelming for him. Priority mail? What's that? Once again, I reminded myself that this wasn't about me, that having me take this to the post office kept him and his Cadillac off the streets and maybe even saved lives.
A few friends advised me not to mail it; the bracelet is too valuable they said, or they reminded me that I might never see it again. It's not about the bracelet, I said. It's about relationship. Sure, I love that bracelet and I hope I do get it back. But an action in honor of my deceased grandmother, in honor of the relationship I used to have with my sister, is more important than any bracelet.
So I did it. I humbly mailed the bracelet to my sister, for the sake of my grandparents. I did it to show that a relationship is more important than the possible loss of jewelry. I did it to show my sister that through it all, I do love her and wish her the best for her wedding and marriage.
My grandmother passed away at about the same time the rift between my parents and me was growing. Six years later, my sister is about to get married.
I am not invited.
Of course I remembered the bracelet, but I also remember my grandmother, and her no-nonsense ways. If she were still alive, I believe many of my family dynamics would be different. I'm not sure what she would say about the bracelet. I'm sure she assumed I would be invited to my only sibling's wedding.
So though I know about the wedding from the invitations sent to my grandfather's home, I wasn't going to offer the bracelet.
My granddad remembered it anyway.
When the initial realization hit me that my family would not be invited to my sister's wedding, I had to take several days to mentally re-frame the situation and realize that this isn't about me. I am not the central person in this problem. Maybe our exclusion is more about my parents' and sister's problems than mine.
Feeling confident in my healthy perspective, I was dealt another lesson in humility when my grandfather called me to ask about the bracelet. He didn't realize it was in my possession, and asked me to bring it to his house so we could talk about it and he could send it to my sister.
I made him promise I would get it back.
Because I loved my grandmother and I love my grandfather today, I brought the bracelet to his house. Again I reminded myself that I was doing this for them, and it wasn't about me.
My grandfather and I sat in his office talking and he got out all the materials he would need to mail the bracelet. He handed them to me and asked me to take it to the post office.
My grandfather wasn't being insensitive. He's 87 and is trying to drive as little as possible. Taking a package to the post office is overwhelming for him. Priority mail? What's that? Once again, I reminded myself that this wasn't about me, that having me take this to the post office kept him and his Cadillac off the streets and maybe even saved lives.
A few friends advised me not to mail it; the bracelet is too valuable they said, or they reminded me that I might never see it again. It's not about the bracelet, I said. It's about relationship. Sure, I love that bracelet and I hope I do get it back. But an action in honor of my deceased grandmother, in honor of the relationship I used to have with my sister, is more important than any bracelet.
So I did it. I humbly mailed the bracelet to my sister, for the sake of my grandparents. I did it to show that a relationship is more important than the possible loss of jewelry. I did it to show my sister that through it all, I do love her and wish her the best for her wedding and marriage.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Poem of Thankfulness
Dear God,
Thank you for...
small hands clasped against mine
snuggles
clean sheets
hot coffee that greets me in the morning
strong handshakes and long hugs
tickles and whooshes onto the bed
kisses
granola with bits of chocolate and berries
the slow cooker that welcomes me after a long day
neighbors jumping on the trampoline
still, quiet moments of the morning
inside jokes
my great-grandmother's ironing board
machines that wash clothes and dishes
fresh citrus fruit
friends that never miss a beat even after a long time away
alarm clocks
dogs that curl against me and snore
laughter
friends that make me think
friends that challenge me to be a better person
moments of calm
Love.
Thank you for...
small hands clasped against mine
snuggles
clean sheets
hot coffee that greets me in the morning
strong handshakes and long hugs
tickles and whooshes onto the bed
kisses
granola with bits of chocolate and berries
the slow cooker that welcomes me after a long day
neighbors jumping on the trampoline
still, quiet moments of the morning
inside jokes
my great-grandmother's ironing board
machines that wash clothes and dishes
fresh citrus fruit
friends that never miss a beat even after a long time away
alarm clocks
dogs that curl against me and snore
laughter
friends that make me think
friends that challenge me to be a better person
moments of calm
Love.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Working smarter, not harder
Today has been such a great day! I got up at 4:30, downed coffee and read a chapter of my book, then took Sugar Dot for a walk-run. After taking Claire to school, Paul and I played tennis, hide and seek, and then went to the Botanic Gardens for exploring. Right now he's played out; literally. He's snoring.
I keep coming up with thoughts that I want to blog, but then get distracted. One idea I've been wrestling with is how would Lent and Easter be different if I lived South of the Equator? We're about a week from Easter and it seems every tree and plant know it. The birds are singing all day and everything is in bloom. It's like the entire world is living a resurrection story. Below the Equator, though, it's autumn. So while I feel all Eastery looking around at all the pretty flowers, citizens in South America are looking at falling leaves.
Another item I want to mention is the book I'm reading. It's fascinating. It's called The Compass for Pleasure by David Linden. Adam actually requested this book from the library because he heard an interview on NPR. He wanted to read it, but I swiped it before he could. I'm a faster reader anyway, so it's okay. This book is about the part of our brain that registers pleasure. So far it's neuroscience for those of us that barely know what that word means. Check later on my goodreads list to see what I think of it when I'm done.
One of the goals I'm focusing on right now is to work smarter, not harder. I am a hard worker and I get up earlier than most and stay up until I absolutely can't stay awake any longer (usually somewhere about 9:05) but I still can't keep up with all the housework, errands, and playing that I must fit into the day. One way that I'm trying to work smarter is by getting organized. If you are a woman that needs help with organization, I want to recommend Simple Mom to you. This lady is a little on the OCD side (apparently she alphabetizes her children's books) but she has great ideas on organization and you can always put your own spin on it, right?
I cleaned out the pantry and donated all unwanted items to the food bank. I cleaned out my closet and donated extra clothes to Goodwill. I've started writing down all my to-do lists in one place. These small actions help my sanity.
I've also discovered about myself that I lack an intentionality about certain things, like placement of my car keys. Just a month ago, and every day previous, I would spend 5-10 minutes a day looking for my car keys. I wouldn't pay attention when I walked in the door, so that meant chaos when I walked out the door later. I promised myself that I would put my keys in one of two places EVERY time. Believe it or not, that little agreement with myself has completely changed my mornings. I don't have to curse at myself for losing my keys because Voila! I know where they are!
I've also started back with my walking. I love early morning walks. Besides the exercise, they help me clear my mind. I'm able to say many short prayers of thanksgiving as well as enjoy the birds singing good morning to me. Sugar Dot also loves them. Wesley is too old to go further than a block, but that darn chihuahua can walk and run as far as I can and then some.
One part of life that I love is that you can always reinvent yourself, improve yourself, and learn. Maybe one day every scrap of paper and shoe in my house will be organized, but until then, I'm going to keep working and learning.
I keep coming up with thoughts that I want to blog, but then get distracted. One idea I've been wrestling with is how would Lent and Easter be different if I lived South of the Equator? We're about a week from Easter and it seems every tree and plant know it. The birds are singing all day and everything is in bloom. It's like the entire world is living a resurrection story. Below the Equator, though, it's autumn. So while I feel all Eastery looking around at all the pretty flowers, citizens in South America are looking at falling leaves.
Another item I want to mention is the book I'm reading. It's fascinating. It's called The Compass for Pleasure by David Linden. Adam actually requested this book from the library because he heard an interview on NPR. He wanted to read it, but I swiped it before he could. I'm a faster reader anyway, so it's okay. This book is about the part of our brain that registers pleasure. So far it's neuroscience for those of us that barely know what that word means. Check later on my goodreads list to see what I think of it when I'm done.
One of the goals I'm focusing on right now is to work smarter, not harder. I am a hard worker and I get up earlier than most and stay up until I absolutely can't stay awake any longer (usually somewhere about 9:05) but I still can't keep up with all the housework, errands, and playing that I must fit into the day. One way that I'm trying to work smarter is by getting organized. If you are a woman that needs help with organization, I want to recommend Simple Mom to you. This lady is a little on the OCD side (apparently she alphabetizes her children's books) but she has great ideas on organization and you can always put your own spin on it, right?
I cleaned out the pantry and donated all unwanted items to the food bank. I cleaned out my closet and donated extra clothes to Goodwill. I've started writing down all my to-do lists in one place. These small actions help my sanity.
I've also discovered about myself that I lack an intentionality about certain things, like placement of my car keys. Just a month ago, and every day previous, I would spend 5-10 minutes a day looking for my car keys. I wouldn't pay attention when I walked in the door, so that meant chaos when I walked out the door later. I promised myself that I would put my keys in one of two places EVERY time. Believe it or not, that little agreement with myself has completely changed my mornings. I don't have to curse at myself for losing my keys because Voila! I know where they are!
I've also started back with my walking. I love early morning walks. Besides the exercise, they help me clear my mind. I'm able to say many short prayers of thanksgiving as well as enjoy the birds singing good morning to me. Sugar Dot also loves them. Wesley is too old to go further than a block, but that darn chihuahua can walk and run as far as I can and then some.
One part of life that I love is that you can always reinvent yourself, improve yourself, and learn. Maybe one day every scrap of paper and shoe in my house will be organized, but until then, I'm going to keep working and learning.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Thankful Thursday
What a beautiful day, again! We have been so blessed with wonderful weather, here in Ft. Worth. Days like this remind me of my friend Ben Wright's term, non-weather. That means weather that is so perfect that you don't even notice it.
Here's my thankful list for today.
1. Adam snaking at drain at 1 a.m.
Last night after he got home from work at midnight and we had both sat down and talked a little and read a little, we heard a noise in the bathroom. Our shower drain was clogged up, so in order to have a perfect shower this morning, Adam got out of bed and went and snaked out the drain. That's love.
2. !!!! Exclamation points!!
I am an enthusiastic person by nature, so I feel like exclamation points were made for me!!! I also love that Claire has started writing her name on all her papers at kindergarten like this: Claire!
3. Speaking of kindergarten, Claire was officially identified by the school as gifted and talented this week. This is a huge deal. From now on, Claire will automatically be put in the smart class and even get to attend special individualized classes to challenge her. I was a teacher, so I know a lot of what goes into the identification process. I didn't realize, however, that it is near impossible to get a child identified in kindergarten. Apparently you have to score a 92 percentile on a special standardized test as well as excel in other areas of academia. The more I ask around, the more I think Claire is the only kindergartner at this school to receive this honor. Since I don't work full-time, we can't afford private school for the kids and one way to ensure they get the best possible education in public school is to make sure they earn the GT label. Adam and I have been working hard with both of the kids since birth to expand their knowledge on a daily basis so they get on this gifted and talented track. Hooray! It worked!
4. Paul's sense of humor.
Our son never ceases to crack me up. Last week at the thrift shop, I was asking Paul if he wanted anything. He pulled out a man's XXXL shirt, held it up to him and said in a serious voice, "I'm really thinking of getting this." Yesterday he put on a detachable hood from Claire's winter coat and declared himself a polar bear. Last week he announced he wasn't only a meerkat, he was a pirate meerkat. He makes me laugh so hard!
5. Project Mom
I am telling every mom I know to got to this in 2013. Last Saturday I went to the downtown Hilton for these seminars on how to be a better mom. I learned so much! It was all relevant, applicable information on organization, parenting, couponing, photography, and many other things. Plus, we got tons of free stuff! I scored a huge basket of baby fitness equipment, which went to our next door neighbor's newborn. It was awesome.
6. Babysitting
My friend Melody watched both kids on Monday night so I could attend Bible study. Since Adam's been working so much lately, I hadn't been able to attend since November. It felt so good to be back amongst friends and get myself back on track.
7. The return of perspective
When it's just me and the kids and I don't have much other outlets or adults to talk to, I begin to lose perspective on life. A cup of spilled milk becomes AN ENTIRE GLASS OF SPILLED MILK ALL OVER THE CLEAN FLOOR MAKING IT NOW HORRIBLY STICKY AND THE END OF THE WORLD IS APPROACHING!!! One way that I avoid being self-important and self-adsorbed is by being around other adults. Adam finished two major projects this week, thus freeing me up to get out of the house some. With Melody watching the kids on Monday, I really feel more like myself again and can mop up that spilled milk, because after all, it's not really a big deal.
8. Libraries
We are blessed to be able to frequent and feel at home at three libraries. We have a wonderful children's library at church, where the librarian has started pulling books she knows we'll like. Paul and I work weekly at the Bruce Shulkey library and check out lots of books there. There's also the Wedgwood branch of the Fort Worth Public Library, which we also call home. The only downside to all these libraries is I have to make sure I'm turning the correct books into the correct library.
9. Public Relations Campaigns at the Dinner table
I served broccoli the other night and Paul had seconds. I asked him if he liked the trees and he said yes. Claire however said she didn't like broccoli. Luckily she ate some anyway and Paul didn't make the connection that the trees he was gobbling up were actually broccoli. I always feel like a spin doctor at the dinner table.
10. Neighborhood kids
I grew up in an old, established neighborhood where the only kids around were my sister and I. I love that we had a new family move in down the street so the kids now have daily playmates. Neighbors are awesome.
Here's my thankful list for today.
1. Adam snaking at drain at 1 a.m.
Last night after he got home from work at midnight and we had both sat down and talked a little and read a little, we heard a noise in the bathroom. Our shower drain was clogged up, so in order to have a perfect shower this morning, Adam got out of bed and went and snaked out the drain. That's love.
2. !!!! Exclamation points!!
I am an enthusiastic person by nature, so I feel like exclamation points were made for me!!! I also love that Claire has started writing her name on all her papers at kindergarten like this: Claire!
3. Speaking of kindergarten, Claire was officially identified by the school as gifted and talented this week. This is a huge deal. From now on, Claire will automatically be put in the smart class and even get to attend special individualized classes to challenge her. I was a teacher, so I know a lot of what goes into the identification process. I didn't realize, however, that it is near impossible to get a child identified in kindergarten. Apparently you have to score a 92 percentile on a special standardized test as well as excel in other areas of academia. The more I ask around, the more I think Claire is the only kindergartner at this school to receive this honor. Since I don't work full-time, we can't afford private school for the kids and one way to ensure they get the best possible education in public school is to make sure they earn the GT label. Adam and I have been working hard with both of the kids since birth to expand their knowledge on a daily basis so they get on this gifted and talented track. Hooray! It worked!
4. Paul's sense of humor.
Our son never ceases to crack me up. Last week at the thrift shop, I was asking Paul if he wanted anything. He pulled out a man's XXXL shirt, held it up to him and said in a serious voice, "I'm really thinking of getting this." Yesterday he put on a detachable hood from Claire's winter coat and declared himself a polar bear. Last week he announced he wasn't only a meerkat, he was a pirate meerkat. He makes me laugh so hard!
5. Project Mom
I am telling every mom I know to got to this in 2013. Last Saturday I went to the downtown Hilton for these seminars on how to be a better mom. I learned so much! It was all relevant, applicable information on organization, parenting, couponing, photography, and many other things. Plus, we got tons of free stuff! I scored a huge basket of baby fitness equipment, which went to our next door neighbor's newborn. It was awesome.
6. Babysitting
My friend Melody watched both kids on Monday night so I could attend Bible study. Since Adam's been working so much lately, I hadn't been able to attend since November. It felt so good to be back amongst friends and get myself back on track.
7. The return of perspective
When it's just me and the kids and I don't have much other outlets or adults to talk to, I begin to lose perspective on life. A cup of spilled milk becomes AN ENTIRE GLASS OF SPILLED MILK ALL OVER THE CLEAN FLOOR MAKING IT NOW HORRIBLY STICKY AND THE END OF THE WORLD IS APPROACHING!!! One way that I avoid being self-important and self-adsorbed is by being around other adults. Adam finished two major projects this week, thus freeing me up to get out of the house some. With Melody watching the kids on Monday, I really feel more like myself again and can mop up that spilled milk, because after all, it's not really a big deal.
8. Libraries
We are blessed to be able to frequent and feel at home at three libraries. We have a wonderful children's library at church, where the librarian has started pulling books she knows we'll like. Paul and I work weekly at the Bruce Shulkey library and check out lots of books there. There's also the Wedgwood branch of the Fort Worth Public Library, which we also call home. The only downside to all these libraries is I have to make sure I'm turning the correct books into the correct library.
9. Public Relations Campaigns at the Dinner table
I served broccoli the other night and Paul had seconds. I asked him if he liked the trees and he said yes. Claire however said she didn't like broccoli. Luckily she ate some anyway and Paul didn't make the connection that the trees he was gobbling up were actually broccoli. I always feel like a spin doctor at the dinner table.
10. Neighborhood kids
I grew up in an old, established neighborhood where the only kids around were my sister and I. I love that we had a new family move in down the street so the kids now have daily playmates. Neighbors are awesome.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Thankful Friday
This morning is not as hurried as most, and for that I am thankful. I got up at 5 a.m. this morning, right on time. It seems when I get up later than that, the entire mood of the house is different. I'm more rushed and everyone in turn is too. I get up early to read my Bible, but also to get my coffee into my system so I can get a head start on everyone.
Today I am thankful for:
1. Productivity
I've made a few small changes this week which has resulted in an increase in my productivity. Little things like washing dishes last night even though I was falling over exhausted and timing myself on vacuuming. Yesterday I was able to get my email box, which had 1,500+ emails in it down to 188. That will help me sort through the important action items and the forwards.
2. Dogs snoring
Wesley Eugene, our Yorkie, has finally decided it's okay to be friends with Cpt. Midnight Sugar Dot Express. A couple of mornings ago both dogs were snoring in my lap while I did my morning devotional. Super cute and it made me sad when I had to get up.
3. Half Price Books clearance aisle
I'm in the midst of reading a mystery series--Harlan Coben's Myron Bolitar series. The other day I finished one and wanted the next one. It was $10 to buy digitally, but I went to Half Price Books and found the next three books for $1 each. Score.
4. Sunshine
No matter how I'm feeling that day, when it's a beautiful sunny day, my mood is always lifted. It's hard to be stressed out or grumpy when the sun is shining perfectly and you're driving with the windows down and the music playing.
5. Silly kids songs
Claire is always making up songs. When she sings a song she knows part of, she just makes up the rest of the verses. Hilarious. I wish I had written down the song she made up yesterday.
6. Lunch with Claire
On Wednesday we had some flexibility in the schedule, so Paul and I brought Claire lunch. She was proud and I think we visited with every kid in her class. It was sweet to sit amongst her kindergartner friends and hear what was on their minds. One girl unpacked her lunch and shouted with excitement when she found a container of croutons in her lunchbox. Many of them showed me what was on their lunch plates. I was disappointed to see zero vegetables with the school lunches, but encouraged to see that bringing your lunch really is cool at Claire's school.
7. Progress with Diego
Paul and I have been tutoring a boy at Claire's school for most of the year. Finally he can say all the letters in his name and a few others in the alphabet. I disturbed the entire library with my enthusiasm for his progress.
8. Wii dance
I keep having to stop typing this to watch Paul because he's dancing to the Wii. He just finished "I am Your Robot Friend." Thanks to Stacy for getting us onto the Just Dance craze. We've been jumping like Five Little Monkeys nearly every day.
9. Escape for a day
Tomorrow is Project Mom, a conference for moms in Fort Worth. I will be spending the day in seminars learning how to be the best mom I can be. It sounds fun to me, but what sounds the best is that Adam will be taking care of the kids for the ENTIRE day! This is a welcome relief, especially since he's been working such long hours lately.
10. Old friends
I have had a chance recently to reconnect with some of my friends from years ago before I even wore the name Boyette. It's nice to catch up and remember and know that there are people out there that have known you for so long and still love you.
Today I am thankful for:
1. Productivity
I've made a few small changes this week which has resulted in an increase in my productivity. Little things like washing dishes last night even though I was falling over exhausted and timing myself on vacuuming. Yesterday I was able to get my email box, which had 1,500+ emails in it down to 188. That will help me sort through the important action items and the forwards.
2. Dogs snoring
Wesley Eugene, our Yorkie, has finally decided it's okay to be friends with Cpt. Midnight Sugar Dot Express. A couple of mornings ago both dogs were snoring in my lap while I did my morning devotional. Super cute and it made me sad when I had to get up.
3. Half Price Books clearance aisle
I'm in the midst of reading a mystery series--Harlan Coben's Myron Bolitar series. The other day I finished one and wanted the next one. It was $10 to buy digitally, but I went to Half Price Books and found the next three books for $1 each. Score.
4. Sunshine
No matter how I'm feeling that day, when it's a beautiful sunny day, my mood is always lifted. It's hard to be stressed out or grumpy when the sun is shining perfectly and you're driving with the windows down and the music playing.
5. Silly kids songs
Claire is always making up songs. When she sings a song she knows part of, she just makes up the rest of the verses. Hilarious. I wish I had written down the song she made up yesterday.
6. Lunch with Claire
On Wednesday we had some flexibility in the schedule, so Paul and I brought Claire lunch. She was proud and I think we visited with every kid in her class. It was sweet to sit amongst her kindergartner friends and hear what was on their minds. One girl unpacked her lunch and shouted with excitement when she found a container of croutons in her lunchbox. Many of them showed me what was on their lunch plates. I was disappointed to see zero vegetables with the school lunches, but encouraged to see that bringing your lunch really is cool at Claire's school.
7. Progress with Diego
Paul and I have been tutoring a boy at Claire's school for most of the year. Finally he can say all the letters in his name and a few others in the alphabet. I disturbed the entire library with my enthusiasm for his progress.
8. Wii dance
I keep having to stop typing this to watch Paul because he's dancing to the Wii. He just finished "I am Your Robot Friend." Thanks to Stacy for getting us onto the Just Dance craze. We've been jumping like Five Little Monkeys nearly every day.
9. Escape for a day
Tomorrow is Project Mom, a conference for moms in Fort Worth. I will be spending the day in seminars learning how to be the best mom I can be. It sounds fun to me, but what sounds the best is that Adam will be taking care of the kids for the ENTIRE day! This is a welcome relief, especially since he's been working such long hours lately.
10. Old friends
I have had a chance recently to reconnect with some of my friends from years ago before I even wore the name Boyette. It's nice to catch up and remember and know that there are people out there that have known you for so long and still love you.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Lent 2012
Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten Season. What I love about Lent is it's just like New Year's without all the champagne and post-Christmas to-dos. Christmas and Valentine's are over, so our schedule is more flexible without all the shopping lists and preparations. You get to make New Year's resolutions without it even being the New Year. You can try on the resolutions for the season and if they don't work, they become a habit for Lent, but if they do, you get to bring them into the rhythms of your daily life.
Here are my resolutions for this Lenten season:
1. Focus on what's important, not what's urgent.
I got this from the book Organized Simplicity by Tsh Oxenreider. She talks about how in our fast-paced world, we often can't see what's important because we're distracted by what's urgent. I practiced this on Monday while playing baseball with Paul, who was pretending to be a meerkat. (If you want to know how meerkats play baseball, just ask.) My cell phone rang, and it was a call that needed to be attended to. I didn't answer it. As hard as it was for me not to stop playing and go answer the phone and take care of what was needed (work stuff), I let it go to voice mail and then kept playing baseball. So I didn't let the phone (urgent) interrupt what was important (meerkat baseball.)
Doing this is going to be hard for me because I am a multi-tasker by trade and often pause and then get back to what I am doing.
I also recently read the book The Guinea Pig Diaries by A.J. Jacobs. Hilarious and I highly recommend it. One of the topics in the book is multi-tasking. A.J. tries for a month to uni-task. According to Jacobs, there is no multi-tasking, there is actually switch-tasking. This is also counter productive because it takes longer for our brains to switch focuses than it does to focus on one item to completion.
So this Lent I will focus on what is important and not what is urgent.
2. Setting limits
Several parts of my life have the potential to be the main focus for my life. Like my love of reading. I would be happy reading all day every day and just breaking for food and sleep. Or my job. There is always something happening at church so therefore always something that needs to be communicated or photos to be scheduled or website to be updated. Or house cleaning. I could clean house all day every day, and if you've ever seen my house, you know that's not exactly my focus, although it could be. Or playing with kids, or hanging with friends, or running errands, or a million other activities I do.
This Lent I am going to pay attention to what I am doing and set limits. Yes, the house always needs cleaning, but how much longer will the kids ask me to snuggle and read a book? Yes, there is always room for improvement with my job, but it's not supposed to be full-time. Yes, this book is really fascinating, but there are actual humans around that I can interact with!
3. Advocating for myself
I am a nurturer. I enjoy taking care of others. However, I'm not so good at taking care of myself. This Lent I am going to try to speak up for myself and communicate my needs to others. This one is also hard for me because I am a helper and people pleaser by nature, so if you ask me to do something and it is physically possible for me to do it, I will. I don't often say no and I don't often express any need for myself. I will try add myself to the list of people and things I take care of.
Whew! That's enough deep thoughts for the day. Now I will stop blogging (urgent) to go take care of what's important (getting everyone out of bed).
Here are my resolutions for this Lenten season:
1. Focus on what's important, not what's urgent.
I got this from the book Organized Simplicity by Tsh Oxenreider. She talks about how in our fast-paced world, we often can't see what's important because we're distracted by what's urgent. I practiced this on Monday while playing baseball with Paul, who was pretending to be a meerkat. (If you want to know how meerkats play baseball, just ask.) My cell phone rang, and it was a call that needed to be attended to. I didn't answer it. As hard as it was for me not to stop playing and go answer the phone and take care of what was needed (work stuff), I let it go to voice mail and then kept playing baseball. So I didn't let the phone (urgent) interrupt what was important (meerkat baseball.)
Doing this is going to be hard for me because I am a multi-tasker by trade and often pause and then get back to what I am doing.
I also recently read the book The Guinea Pig Diaries by A.J. Jacobs. Hilarious and I highly recommend it. One of the topics in the book is multi-tasking. A.J. tries for a month to uni-task. According to Jacobs, there is no multi-tasking, there is actually switch-tasking. This is also counter productive because it takes longer for our brains to switch focuses than it does to focus on one item to completion.
So this Lent I will focus on what is important and not what is urgent.
2. Setting limits
Several parts of my life have the potential to be the main focus for my life. Like my love of reading. I would be happy reading all day every day and just breaking for food and sleep. Or my job. There is always something happening at church so therefore always something that needs to be communicated or photos to be scheduled or website to be updated. Or house cleaning. I could clean house all day every day, and if you've ever seen my house, you know that's not exactly my focus, although it could be. Or playing with kids, or hanging with friends, or running errands, or a million other activities I do.
This Lent I am going to pay attention to what I am doing and set limits. Yes, the house always needs cleaning, but how much longer will the kids ask me to snuggle and read a book? Yes, there is always room for improvement with my job, but it's not supposed to be full-time. Yes, this book is really fascinating, but there are actual humans around that I can interact with!
3. Advocating for myself
I am a nurturer. I enjoy taking care of others. However, I'm not so good at taking care of myself. This Lent I am going to try to speak up for myself and communicate my needs to others. This one is also hard for me because I am a helper and people pleaser by nature, so if you ask me to do something and it is physically possible for me to do it, I will. I don't often say no and I don't often express any need for myself. I will try add myself to the list of people and things I take care of.
Whew! That's enough deep thoughts for the day. Now I will stop blogging (urgent) to go take care of what's important (getting everyone out of bed).
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Thankful for time to be thankful
Good morning! It's 5:19 a.m. and I am celebrating the quiet house and my delicious cup of coffee.
Today I am thankful for:
1. A working coffeemaker that sometimes beats me awake and delicious creamer. Today I am enjoying some Belgian chocolate. Fancy! I am thankful for the Cuisinart company that made an awesome coffeepot. I am thankful for the laborers that harvested the coffee beans. I am thankful for the friendly Costco employees that roasted the beans.
2. My laptop computer
Want to type during a meeting? While watching the kids jump on the trampoline? No problem! It's portable!
3. The World's Finest Customers
We're selling the World's Finest Chocolate (2 boxes left) and we appreciate everyone's generosity. Claire's school is buying new computers, but even more exciting than that is that she has almost earned the right to throw a pie at Mr. Gooch (one of the kindergarten teachers).
4. A fantastic kindergarten experience
I can't brag on Bruce Shulkey Elementary or Mrs. Alvarez or Claire's fantastic friends enough! The staff at the school create a positive environment for learning. Claire is learning both socially and academically. She never comes home telling me someone in her class was mean to her or catty. She is in the best place for her and I'm so glad! (Yes, I have been informed that I might be an exclamation point over-user, but I feel it's appropriate here. I now weigh the value of each exclamation point and try not to overuse them.)
5. A relationship based on harassment
Sure Adam and I love each other. We've been married nearly 11 years, but what really has kept us going is the harassment. We have a scary picture of Cher that we hide around the house to scare each other with. And there's the cardboard cutout of the Coors Light lady that has made me scream once. And the dumb ads for the baby figurines (I had to buy one for my grandpa and now they just keep coming). Or the ongoing contest to see who can say something the most disgusting. And the car magnets that appear and disappear. The never-ending fight of who has the most covers when we make the bed. If I wrote the entire list of ways we give each other a hard time, I think I'd have a book. Hmmmmmm...
6. My little bookclub
For three years, I think, every first Wednesday I've been meeting with the same ladies to discuss literature. I love these ladies! We rarely agree, but we always listen to each other and consider the other's opinions. We try to read books that expand our worldview. We laugh and have fun doing it.
7. Being able to help and learning a lesson, too
I bought my granddad groceries last week and then met a lady at the exit who needed milk for her baby. Thinking it was a scam, I decided not to give her cash, but then I learned my lesson. I "called her bluff" and offered to buy her milk. She gratefully accepted. Then I realized the error of my ways and tried to buy her groceries, but she wouldn't let me. I bought her milk, heard a little of her story, and learned that the next time I will say yes before I say no. It was $2.33. She was really in need, but even if it had been a scam, surely I can part with $2.33.
8. Babysitting a baby
On Monday, I was able to watch my friend Melody's daughter and infant son. I love Baby Corbin, but I also knew that as I held him, I am done having babies. I am officially okay with two wonderful kids. I love babysitting, though!
9. Construction excitement
Across the street, there has been some repair to one of the pipes in the street. On Monday, Paul and I got out lawn chairs and sat and watched the digger dig up the street. Then Paul got out his own digger and dump truck and got to work on our front yard. Yes, he dug some shallow holes and killed some grass, but he was having so much fun imitating the construction workers, it was worth it.
10. Membership to the museum
Because we are members at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, we get into the Stock Show for free. We've been to the Stock Show twice now and the kids have had so much fun seeing all the animals. I love how much they pay attention to each animal and point out interesting traits. I showed Paul a bunny with red eyes and he said, "Yeah, he's wearing red contacts." As if that weren't enough to be thankful for, yesterday I renewed our museum membership and saved 20 percent because it was during the Stock Show. Yeehaw! (And I'd like to thank Kaa and Paul March who bought this year's museum membership for our Christmas gift. I have been holding your check and will now deposit it. Thank you!)
Today I am thankful for:
1. A working coffeemaker that sometimes beats me awake and delicious creamer. Today I am enjoying some Belgian chocolate. Fancy! I am thankful for the Cuisinart company that made an awesome coffeepot. I am thankful for the laborers that harvested the coffee beans. I am thankful for the friendly Costco employees that roasted the beans.
2. My laptop computer
Want to type during a meeting? While watching the kids jump on the trampoline? No problem! It's portable!
3. The World's Finest Customers
We're selling the World's Finest Chocolate (2 boxes left) and we appreciate everyone's generosity. Claire's school is buying new computers, but even more exciting than that is that she has almost earned the right to throw a pie at Mr. Gooch (one of the kindergarten teachers).
4. A fantastic kindergarten experience
I can't brag on Bruce Shulkey Elementary or Mrs. Alvarez or Claire's fantastic friends enough! The staff at the school create a positive environment for learning. Claire is learning both socially and academically. She never comes home telling me someone in her class was mean to her or catty. She is in the best place for her and I'm so glad! (Yes, I have been informed that I might be an exclamation point over-user, but I feel it's appropriate here. I now weigh the value of each exclamation point and try not to overuse them.)
5. A relationship based on harassment
Sure Adam and I love each other. We've been married nearly 11 years, but what really has kept us going is the harassment. We have a scary picture of Cher that we hide around the house to scare each other with. And there's the cardboard cutout of the Coors Light lady that has made me scream once. And the dumb ads for the baby figurines (I had to buy one for my grandpa and now they just keep coming). Or the ongoing contest to see who can say something the most disgusting. And the car magnets that appear and disappear. The never-ending fight of who has the most covers when we make the bed. If I wrote the entire list of ways we give each other a hard time, I think I'd have a book. Hmmmmmm...
6. My little bookclub
For three years, I think, every first Wednesday I've been meeting with the same ladies to discuss literature. I love these ladies! We rarely agree, but we always listen to each other and consider the other's opinions. We try to read books that expand our worldview. We laugh and have fun doing it.
7. Being able to help and learning a lesson, too
I bought my granddad groceries last week and then met a lady at the exit who needed milk for her baby. Thinking it was a scam, I decided not to give her cash, but then I learned my lesson. I "called her bluff" and offered to buy her milk. She gratefully accepted. Then I realized the error of my ways and tried to buy her groceries, but she wouldn't let me. I bought her milk, heard a little of her story, and learned that the next time I will say yes before I say no. It was $2.33. She was really in need, but even if it had been a scam, surely I can part with $2.33.
8. Babysitting a baby
On Monday, I was able to watch my friend Melody's daughter and infant son. I love Baby Corbin, but I also knew that as I held him, I am done having babies. I am officially okay with two wonderful kids. I love babysitting, though!
9. Construction excitement
Across the street, there has been some repair to one of the pipes in the street. On Monday, Paul and I got out lawn chairs and sat and watched the digger dig up the street. Then Paul got out his own digger and dump truck and got to work on our front yard. Yes, he dug some shallow holes and killed some grass, but he was having so much fun imitating the construction workers, it was worth it.
10. Membership to the museum
Because we are members at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, we get into the Stock Show for free. We've been to the Stock Show twice now and the kids have had so much fun seeing all the animals. I love how much they pay attention to each animal and point out interesting traits. I showed Paul a bunny with red eyes and he said, "Yeah, he's wearing red contacts." As if that weren't enough to be thankful for, yesterday I renewed our museum membership and saved 20 percent because it was during the Stock Show. Yeehaw! (And I'd like to thank Kaa and Paul March who bought this year's museum membership for our Christmas gift. I have been holding your check and will now deposit it. Thank you!)
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Artwork
For those of you who never get to see the Claire and Paul Boyette Gallery and Museum in person, here are a few of the latest exhibits.
Paul made this snowman in preschool.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Thankful for Peace
Today is Friday, the end of another busy week. I'm not sure if Adam knew, but I for one, have been continuously surprised by how much having a kindergartener has changed our life. Our schedule is fuller and quicker. I get up every morning at 5 or before so I can drink my coffee, read my Bible, and get a head start on the day. On Saturday, I enjoy getting up at the same time so I can snuggle on the couch and snooze and read a book in peace.
Where I was militant about daily naps for Claire, Paul has to go with the flow. Sometimes he gets one, sometimes he doesn't. Sometimes he's sleeping in the wagon while I walk to get Claire from school. Sometimes he sleeps in the morning on the way to my granddad's house and then transfers his nap to a recliner.
Our life rhythms now match that of the FWISD calendar.
Here's my thankful list for today. I haven't posted in a while, so I could easily make this list 100 + items, but for your reading pleasure, I'll try to keep it brief.
I'm thankful for:
1. Trees, again
This time I'm thankful for the giant trees in our front yard. They are the perfect size for the kids to climb. Last week I had both kids in one tree. None of those pansy trees for us. We have big, strong trees.
2. Kids with compassion
Yesterday, Paul went to comfort a crying friend without any prompting from me. A mom friend told me last week that Paul overheard her talking about her sick kid and he questioned her with concern until he was satisfied his buddy would be okay. I feel pride and hope for both of my children when I witness actions like this.
3. A gold-medal Olympian
Claire won a gold medal in reading this week. She's awesome.
4. A husband that thinks completely differently from me
Some people enjoy surrounding themselves with people who think the same way as they do. I love that Adam Boyette is one of life's greatest mysteries to me and I will never be able to figure him out. He's like a lifelong puzzle. We often compare notes on events or conversations we were both a part of. It's always interesting to me to hear what stood out to him verses what I found important. It is almost always different. Adam keeps me thinking and always examining my opinions and assumptions about the world. I often joke that while I am completely right-brained, he is completely left-brained so together we make one brain.
5. My children's unique sense of style
Last Saturday I took both kids to Kohl's to buy a new outfit. Paul wore his Batman costume and solicited many stares and giggles. He also kept standing on his head in the basket, which added to the entertainment. After lots of debate, Claire's outfit consisted of a hot pink jaguar print hooded top with black and white jaguar pants and a rainbow skirt. I love that both kids have their own opinions about fashion and that they express themselves through their clothes. Right this second, Paul is sitting on the couch in shorts, a T-shirt, and cowboy boots.
6. Literature
This week Paul has really started to enjoy books on his own. On Wednesday when we returned from the library, he sat for an hour looking at his newly checked-out books. Claire read eight books before class this morning. I read about two books a week, and even Adam has started reading every chance he gets.
7. Being missed
Due to several scheduling conflicts, I have had to skip several of my normal events. I had to take a time out of bookclub and Bible study. No less than five people have told me they miss me at my normal event. It's nice to be missed.
8. The perfect job for me
I love my job. Twice a week I get to sit in an office and have adult conversations and feel smart. The other days I can work from the house while Paul plays. I feel like a contributing member of society but still a stay-at-home mom. I love it!
9. Winter weather followed by beautiful weather
When it's 70 degrees outside, it's not uncommon to hear someone saying they wish it was this way all the time. Not me. I love the cold, if only for the fact that it makes me not take the beautiful weather for granted.
10. Funny kids
While speaking like a pirate this week, Claire shouted, "Shiver me tenders!" Hilarious. In a Love and Logic moment, I left Paul at home by himself briefly while I waited in the driveway for him to panic and run out. He didn't. He stayed in his rocking chair reading books and even took time to pick up dog poop! Paul is currently sitting on my shoulders. Yep, I have a three year old on my shoulders while I am typing. My kids make me laugh.
Happy Friday!
Where I was militant about daily naps for Claire, Paul has to go with the flow. Sometimes he gets one, sometimes he doesn't. Sometimes he's sleeping in the wagon while I walk to get Claire from school. Sometimes he sleeps in the morning on the way to my granddad's house and then transfers his nap to a recliner.
Our life rhythms now match that of the FWISD calendar.
Here's my thankful list for today. I haven't posted in a while, so I could easily make this list 100 + items, but for your reading pleasure, I'll try to keep it brief.
I'm thankful for:
1. Trees, again
This time I'm thankful for the giant trees in our front yard. They are the perfect size for the kids to climb. Last week I had both kids in one tree. None of those pansy trees for us. We have big, strong trees.
2. Kids with compassion
Yesterday, Paul went to comfort a crying friend without any prompting from me. A mom friend told me last week that Paul overheard her talking about her sick kid and he questioned her with concern until he was satisfied his buddy would be okay. I feel pride and hope for both of my children when I witness actions like this.
3. A gold-medal Olympian
Claire won a gold medal in reading this week. She's awesome.
4. A husband that thinks completely differently from me
Some people enjoy surrounding themselves with people who think the same way as they do. I love that Adam Boyette is one of life's greatest mysteries to me and I will never be able to figure him out. He's like a lifelong puzzle. We often compare notes on events or conversations we were both a part of. It's always interesting to me to hear what stood out to him verses what I found important. It is almost always different. Adam keeps me thinking and always examining my opinions and assumptions about the world. I often joke that while I am completely right-brained, he is completely left-brained so together we make one brain.
5. My children's unique sense of style
Last Saturday I took both kids to Kohl's to buy a new outfit. Paul wore his Batman costume and solicited many stares and giggles. He also kept standing on his head in the basket, which added to the entertainment. After lots of debate, Claire's outfit consisted of a hot pink jaguar print hooded top with black and white jaguar pants and a rainbow skirt. I love that both kids have their own opinions about fashion and that they express themselves through their clothes. Right this second, Paul is sitting on the couch in shorts, a T-shirt, and cowboy boots.
6. Literature
This week Paul has really started to enjoy books on his own. On Wednesday when we returned from the library, he sat for an hour looking at his newly checked-out books. Claire read eight books before class this morning. I read about two books a week, and even Adam has started reading every chance he gets.
7. Being missed
Due to several scheduling conflicts, I have had to skip several of my normal events. I had to take a time out of bookclub and Bible study. No less than five people have told me they miss me at my normal event. It's nice to be missed.
8. The perfect job for me
I love my job. Twice a week I get to sit in an office and have adult conversations and feel smart. The other days I can work from the house while Paul plays. I feel like a contributing member of society but still a stay-at-home mom. I love it!
9. Winter weather followed by beautiful weather
When it's 70 degrees outside, it's not uncommon to hear someone saying they wish it was this way all the time. Not me. I love the cold, if only for the fact that it makes me not take the beautiful weather for granted.
10. Funny kids
While speaking like a pirate this week, Claire shouted, "Shiver me tenders!" Hilarious. In a Love and Logic moment, I left Paul at home by himself briefly while I waited in the driveway for him to panic and run out. He didn't. He stayed in his rocking chair reading books and even took time to pick up dog poop! Paul is currently sitting on my shoulders. Yep, I have a three year old on my shoulders while I am typing. My kids make me laugh.
Happy Friday!
Friday, January 20, 2012
Ode to Karen and our other homeless friends
This morning I found out one of our homeless friends died on the street on Wednesday night. Karen was a tall, handsome woman. She was kind and patient. She was a good listener and took an interest in others. She never complained and smiled often. The last time the kids and I saw her was three weeks ago. I was talking to another homeless lady and lost track of the kids. When I found them, they were jumping with glee on Karen's mattress. I tried to yank them off her bed, but she insisted on letting them play. She assured me she loved children, in particular Claire and Paul.
Claire, Paul, and I are very active at Room In the Inn, the homeless ministry at our church. Every Thursday night during the coldest and hottest nights of the year, our church opens its doors to twelve women without homes. Homeless shelters are the fullest during these months and while the weather is the most dangerous for sleeping outside, it's also the time when people are turned away because of overcrowding shelters.
Many people work to make sure our guests are comfortable when they stay at our church. Volunteers assemble toiletry bags, set up mattresses, put tablecloths on tables and prepare meals. It's a lot of work. When our church started Room In the Inn, I volunteered for every post that was available. I wanted to be a part of this important ministry and help out where needed. It was one of my homeless friends that taught me a lesson about that. One day I was especially frazzled making sure everything was perfect and she said, "You know, you can just sit down and visit. You don't have to do it all yourself." From that day on, I have remembered what Terry said. I sign up for food if it's needed, but otherwise, the kids and I just show up to visit with our friends. Sometimes we bring snacks, sometimes we don't. We always sit and talk.
I have been immeasurably blessed by connecting with these ladies. I have found so much in common with them; they too worry about money and search for sales. Most of them are mothers and offer memories of their own children. They laugh at the kids and permit them to climb in their laps and jump on their mattresses on the floor. They are the best huggers. Though they don't have access to a kitchen, they love discussing food and food preparation. I too, love to cook.
Some days I feel worried or depressed about whatever problem is on my mind. Talking to a woman that's homeless puts things in perspective for me. So what if my house is cluttered? I have one. So what if I can't keep the laundry caught up? Everyone in my family has nice clothing and I have a working washer and dryer. So what if I get tired from running errands? I have a nice car to take me and money to buy groceries with. So what if my kids are hyper and driving me crazy after a glass of lemonade? They live with my husband and I, not across town with someone else. I don't have the latest fashions, but I have clothing. I have friends that love me. I have a home with a heater and a nice bed in a quiet house instead of a giant room with hundreds of people on mats. I am blessed and I have no right to complain.
The best lessons I learn from my homeless friends are the ones they don't know they are teaching me. A hug from a friend who hasn't had access to a shower in a week reminds me of my own hot shower. Requests for simple items like razors or flip flops remind me I never have to ask for what I need. Compliments on good food remind me to appreciate the food at my house.
Karen, I don't know your story or even your last name, but my family loved you. You were a friend to all of us. May you rest in peace.
Claire, Paul, and I are very active at Room In the Inn, the homeless ministry at our church. Every Thursday night during the coldest and hottest nights of the year, our church opens its doors to twelve women without homes. Homeless shelters are the fullest during these months and while the weather is the most dangerous for sleeping outside, it's also the time when people are turned away because of overcrowding shelters.
Many people work to make sure our guests are comfortable when they stay at our church. Volunteers assemble toiletry bags, set up mattresses, put tablecloths on tables and prepare meals. It's a lot of work. When our church started Room In the Inn, I volunteered for every post that was available. I wanted to be a part of this important ministry and help out where needed. It was one of my homeless friends that taught me a lesson about that. One day I was especially frazzled making sure everything was perfect and she said, "You know, you can just sit down and visit. You don't have to do it all yourself." From that day on, I have remembered what Terry said. I sign up for food if it's needed, but otherwise, the kids and I just show up to visit with our friends. Sometimes we bring snacks, sometimes we don't. We always sit and talk.
I have been immeasurably blessed by connecting with these ladies. I have found so much in common with them; they too worry about money and search for sales. Most of them are mothers and offer memories of their own children. They laugh at the kids and permit them to climb in their laps and jump on their mattresses on the floor. They are the best huggers. Though they don't have access to a kitchen, they love discussing food and food preparation. I too, love to cook.
Some days I feel worried or depressed about whatever problem is on my mind. Talking to a woman that's homeless puts things in perspective for me. So what if my house is cluttered? I have one. So what if I can't keep the laundry caught up? Everyone in my family has nice clothing and I have a working washer and dryer. So what if I get tired from running errands? I have a nice car to take me and money to buy groceries with. So what if my kids are hyper and driving me crazy after a glass of lemonade? They live with my husband and I, not across town with someone else. I don't have the latest fashions, but I have clothing. I have friends that love me. I have a home with a heater and a nice bed in a quiet house instead of a giant room with hundreds of people on mats. I am blessed and I have no right to complain.
The best lessons I learn from my homeless friends are the ones they don't know they are teaching me. A hug from a friend who hasn't had access to a shower in a week reminds me of my own hot shower. Requests for simple items like razors or flip flops remind me I never have to ask for what I need. Compliments on good food remind me to appreciate the food at my house.
Karen, I don't know your story or even your last name, but my family loved you. You were a friend to all of us. May you rest in peace.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Thankful Pictures
Today I thought I'd show you what I'm thankful for, instead of telling you.
Claire's creativity. She had me make a Barbie cake, which was basically a bundt cake that we stuck a Barbie in. Here she is singing "Happy Fake Birthday" and blowing out a candle.
Mainstay Farms. We got their every year to get our Christmas tree and it is a lot of fun for the whole family.
Kids that make me laugh. Here Claire is wearing a wig from a mannequin at Mainstay Farms.
Hugs from my favorite boy.
Kids that get along. Here Claire is actually reading Paul a book.
Exciting adventures in nature. We often find lizards. Here Adam and Claire are with a Texas Swift.
A church that loves us all. Last Sunday, both kids posed in the manger for our church's live nativity. Many people walked by and not one minded we had two large kids in a manger.
Exciting education.
These are George Washington's teeth. That's right. They are currently on display at the Fort Worth Museum. The Boyettes are thankful for our passes there, where we learn something new at each visit.
Preschool Programs
Paul was an angel this week in his preschool program. Yes, the child in the stripes, plaid shorts and rainboots was mine.
Diego!
Here Paul is being silly with Diego. Diego is a student in Claire's class and Paul and I are helping tutor him. For Christmas we bought him a little Leap Pad laptop and he was so excited about it that he wouldn't even look up from it when I wanted to take his picture. I programmed it to say his name and he nearly fell out of his chair when he turned it on and the computer said, "Hi, Diego!"
Monday, December 5, 2011
Winter Wonderland Thanks
It's about 35 degrees outside and we are warm inside.
Today I am thankful for:
1. Fall colors
From my chair right now I can see a tree covered with green, another yellow, and another bright red. I know I often write about being thankful for trees, but every day I walk down the street noticing their beauty.
2. Cookie baking
Paul and I spent part of the morning baking snicker doodles together. He looked so cute in his Christmas apron. He can crack eggs all by himself without any eggshell residue in the bowl. I'm so proud of him!
3. Carols
I've been blasting out the Pandora Christmas station all day today. Paul and I have been dancing and singing to all the tunes.
4. Food for ducks
This morning I was trying to think of an activity Paul and I could do just for fun. We decided to go to the duck park and feed the ducks. We had a pile of stale bread and crackers, so we bundled up and took them to the park. It was raining and cold, and the ducks were starving. At least 100 ducks encircled us wanting food. We have so much fun feeding ducks with aerodynamic pieces of bread.
5. Our covers wagon
Since the weather has gotten colder, Paul has been taking more naps. When it's time to pick up Claire from school, I just wrap him in a blanket and lay him in the wagon. Today not a bit of his head peeked out from the covers. I'm thankful I don't have to wake him up and that he can be transported from bed to wagon to couch without interrupting his sleep.
6. Sentimental ornaments
On our tree right now are ornaments from my grandmother's tree in the 1960s, Adam and my family trees from the 1980s, and ornaments that represent our life together. The crosses were handmade by Adam's 103 year old aunt and several of the ball ornaments have been painted by the kids. It's nice to look at the tree and remember.
7. Avoiding the mall
With the exception of a big trip to Toys 'R' Us, Adam and I are almost done with our holiday shopping. We have successfully avoided the mall. Claire is reading this and has pointed out that we did have our pictures made at the mall, but we didn't venture beyond the portrait studio.
8. Cookies for the postal lady
Our postwoman is named Rhonda. Claire just now ran out and gave her fresh cookies and received a hug. We love Miss Rhonda.
9. Barbie cake
I must conclude this post because I am being called to the kitchen. While Paul is napping, Claire and I are going to make a Barbie cake.
10. A working oven
Thank God our oven works, or else I couldn't be thankful for most of the items today.
Today I am thankful for:
1. Fall colors
From my chair right now I can see a tree covered with green, another yellow, and another bright red. I know I often write about being thankful for trees, but every day I walk down the street noticing their beauty.
2. Cookie baking
Paul and I spent part of the morning baking snicker doodles together. He looked so cute in his Christmas apron. He can crack eggs all by himself without any eggshell residue in the bowl. I'm so proud of him!
3. Carols
I've been blasting out the Pandora Christmas station all day today. Paul and I have been dancing and singing to all the tunes.
4. Food for ducks
This morning I was trying to think of an activity Paul and I could do just for fun. We decided to go to the duck park and feed the ducks. We had a pile of stale bread and crackers, so we bundled up and took them to the park. It was raining and cold, and the ducks were starving. At least 100 ducks encircled us wanting food. We have so much fun feeding ducks with aerodynamic pieces of bread.
5. Our covers wagon
Since the weather has gotten colder, Paul has been taking more naps. When it's time to pick up Claire from school, I just wrap him in a blanket and lay him in the wagon. Today not a bit of his head peeked out from the covers. I'm thankful I don't have to wake him up and that he can be transported from bed to wagon to couch without interrupting his sleep.
6. Sentimental ornaments
On our tree right now are ornaments from my grandmother's tree in the 1960s, Adam and my family trees from the 1980s, and ornaments that represent our life together. The crosses were handmade by Adam's 103 year old aunt and several of the ball ornaments have been painted by the kids. It's nice to look at the tree and remember.
7. Avoiding the mall
With the exception of a big trip to Toys 'R' Us, Adam and I are almost done with our holiday shopping. We have successfully avoided the mall. Claire is reading this and has pointed out that we did have our pictures made at the mall, but we didn't venture beyond the portrait studio.
8. Cookies for the postal lady
Our postwoman is named Rhonda. Claire just now ran out and gave her fresh cookies and received a hug. We love Miss Rhonda.
9. Barbie cake
I must conclude this post because I am being called to the kitchen. While Paul is napping, Claire and I are going to make a Barbie cake.
10. A working oven
Thank God our oven works, or else I couldn't be thankful for most of the items today.
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