A very surprising thing happened to me three months ago; I fell in love again.
I know, right!?
I say "again" because it is comparable to what I had with my late husband. If it wasn't, I wouldn't say again. Because the time, love and commitment that Mark and I shared set the bar high for me.
It's surprising because, although I was actively dating, I wasn't meeting men who were love and relationship material. Also, I sincerely didn't expect to find what many widows call their "chapter two".
But I think I have.
Showing posts with label happy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label happy. Show all posts
January 25, 2018
August 11, 2017
The Evolution of a New Widow
My husband died 15 months ago and there have been many changes. Some days I feel like that's what my life is now: change.
I'm doing really well. So are my kids.
We've been through the gambit of grief emotions, of course. It's interesting to me to note, though, that I haven't experienced much anger.
I'm doing really well. So are my kids.
We've been through the gambit of grief emotions, of course. It's interesting to me to note, though, that I haven't experienced much anger.
March 24, 2015
How to Build a TARDIS
Or, How to Get Your Creative DIY-er Best Friend to Build You a TARDIS Pantry.
One day a few months ago my husband and I (I think it was me, he thinks it was him) had a Whovian epiphany.
That you could totally make a pantry cabinet look like the Doctor's (Who, that is) TARDIS time machine!
I am slightly creative, but I have a few very creative friends, one of whom happens to enjoy DIY projects....
One day a few months ago my husband and I (I think it was me, he thinks it was him) had a Whovian epiphany.
That you could totally make a pantry cabinet look like the Doctor's (Who, that is) TARDIS time machine!
I am slightly creative, but I have a few very creative friends, one of whom happens to enjoy DIY projects....
October 31, 2014
Digging Deep for Smiles and Gratitude
I've gotta try to do this.
Because I'm not in a great place right now.
And I really want to pull myself up.
But it's hard when there's so much weighing you down.
Like today being one week since the school shooting in my town. Or this year of continuous health complications for my husband.
I feel like I am surrounded by grief and loss and heartache. Perhaps I'm too empathetic. Maybe I should have a thicker skin.
But I don't. That's not who I am.
I'm walking a fine line between letting myself feel however I feel, and not wallowing in it.
I realize this might not be the best way to begin a happy/thankful list, but it's the truth.
Because I'm not in a great place right now.
And I really want to pull myself up.
But it's hard when there's so much weighing you down.
Like today being one week since the school shooting in my town. Or this year of continuous health complications for my husband.
I feel like I am surrounded by grief and loss and heartache. Perhaps I'm too empathetic. Maybe I should have a thicker skin.
But I don't. That's not who I am.
I'm walking a fine line between letting myself feel however I feel, and not wallowing in it.
I realize this might not be the best way to begin a happy/thankful list, but it's the truth.
October 20, 2014
5 Little Ways I Take Time for Myself
I have been asked about how I could possibly find time for myself with all I have on my plate as a mother, wife and caregiver.
I pointed this out in my first Ask Jen post, but I'll just say again, I'm not aiming for any sort of perfect. I'm not going to cry in my Cheerios if something doesn't get done.
In fact, I must admit I completely forgot about my son's school picture day earlier this month. The school sent home the order form and I fully intended to place an order online beforehand and send AJ to school looking sharp. But because I spaced it (the order form got lost under other papers and I didn't write it on the calendar), he wore some graphic tee and probably shorts that day.
That's a bummer, but it's not the end of the world. I got some nice pictures of him last year, and I can try again next year.
I may not be campaigning for the Perfection of Womanhood Award, but we all know it's a pretty universal female trait to think of ourselves last. We are natural nurturers.
I pointed this out in my first Ask Jen post, but I'll just say again, I'm not aiming for any sort of perfect. I'm not going to cry in my Cheerios if something doesn't get done.
In fact, I must admit I completely forgot about my son's school picture day earlier this month. The school sent home the order form and I fully intended to place an order online beforehand and send AJ to school looking sharp. But because I spaced it (the order form got lost under other papers and I didn't write it on the calendar), he wore some graphic tee and probably shorts that day.
That's a bummer, but it's not the end of the world. I got some nice pictures of him last year, and I can try again next year.
I may not be campaigning for the Perfection of Womanhood Award, but we all know it's a pretty universal female trait to think of ourselves last. We are natural nurturers.
March 28, 2014
10 Things to Smile About and Be Grateful For
At the beginning of the month I listed 10 reasons I was grateful for March. They had a lot to do with the simple fact that February was over. Stupid February.
March has been better, so I would like to show it some love.
1. A quiet Saturday morning.
2. My husband cut his hair. He says I'm not allowed to be happy about this, but I can't lie to you guys, I really am.
3. Maybe you heard, I got to go on a cruise!
4. Getting to spend that time with my friend who is really the closest thing I have to a sister. She is my kids' Godmother so we refer to her as "Auntie Jen" and it confuses AJ. He doesn't get how she can be his "Auntie" if she's not my sister. Just cuz, kiddo.
5. Mark starting physical therapy. It occurred to me recently that he shouldn't have to simply accept that his legs don't want to cooperate with him, that PT might make a difference. Just two appointments in, he already feels like it's helping.
6. One of my photos was chosen as one of Fat Mum Slim's Photo-a-Day "Fab 4"!
7. Spring!
8. Going for walks in the spring sun.
9. My mother-in-law and niece coming for a week-long visit.
10. Getting my spiffy new bloggy business cards in the mail! And, a Dancing in the Rain notebook and pen that I am going to GIVE AWAY for my blogiversary next month!
March has been better, so I would like to show it some love.
10 Things to Smile About and Be Grateful For
1. A quiet Saturday morning.
2. My husband cut his hair. He says I'm not allowed to be happy about this, but I can't lie to you guys, I really am.
3. Maybe you heard, I got to go on a cruise!
4. Getting to spend that time with my friend who is really the closest thing I have to a sister. She is my kids' Godmother so we refer to her as "Auntie Jen" and it confuses AJ. He doesn't get how she can be his "Auntie" if she's not my sister. Just cuz, kiddo.
5. Mark starting physical therapy. It occurred to me recently that he shouldn't have to simply accept that his legs don't want to cooperate with him, that PT might make a difference. Just two appointments in, he already feels like it's helping.
6. One of my photos was chosen as one of Fat Mum Slim's Photo-a-Day "Fab 4"!
 |
| @fatmumslim Can you tell which one is mine? |
7. Spring!
8. Going for walks in the spring sun.
9. My mother-in-law and niece coming for a week-long visit.
10. Getting my spiffy new bloggy business cards in the mail! And, a Dancing in the Rain notebook and pen that I am going to GIVE AWAY for my blogiversary next month!
What were your happy things this month?
February 3, 2014
Fun Matters Too
I have seen this image on Facebook a couple of times recently and it's kind of pissing me off:
Look, I get it. People get very excited and riled up about sports. They might argue with those who like teams they don't, and possibly take the disagreement really personally. They might spend big bucks to go see games and buy memorabilia. One might think all that money could do a world of good if put to use elsewhere.
But to say sports fans and/or athletes don't also care about "things that actually matter" isn't fair.
I assume the "things that actually matter" are issues like politics, crime, hunger, education, war, etc. Yes, those things matter. Of course they do.
However, so does FUN. Letting go of all that heavy shit matters too. Getting to indulge in a release of happy, excited chemicals matters. Spending time with friends doing something you mutually enjoy matters. Camaraderie and fellowship matter. Putting a little focus on a TEAM instead of me, me, me all the time.
Not taking everything so bloody seriously matters.
All the big issues of the world will still be there after the game. I see nothing wrong with taking a few hours out of our stressful lives to root for our favorite teams and just have FUN.
Look, I get it. People get very excited and riled up about sports. They might argue with those who like teams they don't, and possibly take the disagreement really personally. They might spend big bucks to go see games and buy memorabilia. One might think all that money could do a world of good if put to use elsewhere.
But to say sports fans and/or athletes don't also care about "things that actually matter" isn't fair.
I assume the "things that actually matter" are issues like politics, crime, hunger, education, war, etc. Yes, those things matter. Of course they do.
However, so does FUN. Letting go of all that heavy shit matters too. Getting to indulge in a release of happy, excited chemicals matters. Spending time with friends doing something you mutually enjoy matters. Camaraderie and fellowship matter. Putting a little focus on a TEAM instead of me, me, me all the time.
Not taking everything so bloody seriously matters.
All the big issues of the world will still be there after the game. I see nothing wrong with taking a few hours out of our stressful lives to root for our favorite teams and just have FUN.
What do you think?
June 18, 2013
Filled With Gratitude
I am happy.
I am so very grateful that my husband is still with us.
After all that he's been through, I look at him lately and am filled with gratitude and happiness.
He is AMAZING.
Not in the off-handed way people use the word "amazing".
More like this, quite literally:
There are so many instances when he could have died. Times before I even knew him, let alone since. He has been fighting to live for SO LONG. And so far, it's working.
Diabetes has not been kind to Mark. It seems that no matter how hard he tries he is plagued by one complication after another. This isn't likely to change. He will probably never get another transplant and the disease will continue to take its toll.
Now, though? Right now? He's doing fairly well. He is constantly struggling with his blood sugars, made more difficult by insulin antibodies and electrolyte fluctuations due to being on dialysis....
But he is holding his own. He is happy and living his life as fully as possible. Still working, taking care of everyday things, cooking, being a dad, husband, son, friend, handyman...MARK.
I am so grateful!
I'm just so happy he is HERE.
It is a gift. An AMAZING gift.
I will never, ever take it for granted.
Connecting with Pour Your Heart Out, The Happiness Project and iPPP.
May 5, 2013
Can't Buy Me Love
Yes you can, actually. I have great fondness for people who give me things.
Oh like you don't! Think about it. When someone buys you something you think they're pretty awesome for doing that which makes you feel good about that person. It makes you feel loved, doesn't it?
I rest my case.
Of course I know what the point really is....that the most important things in life aren't THINGS.
Obviously.
So what are some wonderful things that don't cost a dime?
This is kind of hard because, like, I wanted to say water, because I love the stuff, but water isn't actually free. It costs money to treat it and bring it to my home.
Or Twitter. Technically Twitter is free and I love it. However, you need to have an Internet connection to use it and access to the Internet costs money.
So, maybe not the sort of stuff I should be thinking of. I never said I was the sharpest tool in the shed.
OK, ok, I got this!
10 Lovely Things That Cost Nothing
1. Hugs - good ones, not quick, obligatory ones. If you're gonna hug me, really hug me!
2. Compliments - they make people feel so good.
3. Walks - good for you, time to think.
4. Clouds - the sky is the canvas, clouds are the paint. I actually prefer a few clouds to completely clear skies.
5. A perfect spring day....70 degrees, sunny with a few clouds floating by, light breeze.
6. Sunsets - a beautiful sunset is what makes me feel the most grateful I can still see.
7. The way outside smells when it rains after it's been dry for awhile - sorta dirty and sorta clean at the same time.
8. Laughter - especially a child's.
9. My kids' long, pretty eyelashes - which they get from their father.
10. The quiet moment immediately after my son leaves for school in the morning - it's like this hush settling in and I have to debate with myself if I want it to stay quiet, or turn on some music.
Linked with Monday Listicles.
Oh like you don't! Think about it. When someone buys you something you think they're pretty awesome for doing that which makes you feel good about that person. It makes you feel loved, doesn't it?
I rest my case.
Of course I know what the point really is....that the most important things in life aren't THINGS.
Obviously.
So what are some wonderful things that don't cost a dime?
This is kind of hard because, like, I wanted to say water, because I love the stuff, but water isn't actually free. It costs money to treat it and bring it to my home.
Or Twitter. Technically Twitter is free and I love it. However, you need to have an Internet connection to use it and access to the Internet costs money.
So, maybe not the sort of stuff I should be thinking of. I never said I was the sharpest tool in the shed.
OK, ok, I got this!
10 Lovely Things That Cost Nothing
1. Hugs - good ones, not quick, obligatory ones. If you're gonna hug me, really hug me!
2. Compliments - they make people feel so good.
3. Walks - good for you, time to think.
4. Clouds - the sky is the canvas, clouds are the paint. I actually prefer a few clouds to completely clear skies.
5. A perfect spring day....70 degrees, sunny with a few clouds floating by, light breeze.
6. Sunsets - a beautiful sunset is what makes me feel the most grateful I can still see.
7. The way outside smells when it rains after it's been dry for awhile - sorta dirty and sorta clean at the same time.
8. Laughter - especially a child's.
9. My kids' long, pretty eyelashes - which they get from their father.
10. The quiet moment immediately after my son leaves for school in the morning - it's like this hush settling in and I have to debate with myself if I want it to stay quiet, or turn on some music.
 |
| Quoteswave |
Linked with Monday Listicles.
November 7, 2012
Happy Birthday, Husband!
My Dearest Mark,
Here is your birthday card from me. Of course I would publish it on my blog!
I mean, it is NaBloPoMo and all....
I mean, it is NaBloPoMo and all....
Forty-four years! My god, we're getting old. But YAY, we're getting old! Because, you know, earlier this year, we weren't so sure you'd see this birthday, right?
Wait. Let me rephrase that. YOU'RE getting old. Not me. Just so we're clear.
Excellent job getting here, my dear!
You know, some might call you an overachiever, what with all these miracles you seem to keep pulling out of your ass pocket.
We also call you the boy who cried wolf. My cousin says you're a big faker.
You know, just to keep you in line.
You know, just to keep you in line.
You really don't need to keep having near death experiences to get our attention!
I'm serious. Stop it.
Mark, I love you so much it....I mean....it's indefinable. I love you to the moon and back.
I love you HARD.
I love you HARD.
You are a part of me, the love of my life. You make me happy and worried. You make me laugh and you piss me off. And I love every minute of it.
I hope you have an awesome birthday during which you feel loved and have fun. Enjoy your new gaming chair and dinner out tonight. Don't worry about that thing you accidentally shoplifted from Walmart yesterday. We'll just call it their gift to you!
October 26, 2012
TGIF: Funny Shit My Son Says #2
This is technically the second post like this because I previously posted about the Cheeto and the Spider (just didn't call it "funny shit my son says").
Regardless, AJ is pretty damn funny.
The other night I was up in my room watching a TV show when, close to bedtime, AJ walks in, clearly upset.
ME: Hey little man, what's up?
AJ: Mommy, I can't find my sound sort homework ANYWHERE!
ME: What? Why are you worried about your homework right now?
AJ: Because I really have to do that one with the /t/ /th/ sounds.
ME: But sweetie, that one was from last week. You have a new one with /c/ /h/ and /ch/ sounds for this week.
AJ: But I just can't find it! You didn't throw it away did you? I'm supposed to do it! Mrs. V wants me to!
ME: OK, calm down. No, I didn't throw it away.
AJ: Well then *starting to cry* WHERE IS IT??
ME: *sigh* I'm pretty sure it's on the table. I promise I'll find it. CHILL OUT.
AJ: NOW, Mommy! PLEASE! *sniffle*
So we head downstairs, I locate the missing homework and all is right with the world.
A little while later we are upstairs to get the kids into bed. AJ is lying in his bed and both Mark and Camryn are sitting there, all three talking about something, when I walk in.
I don't know what they're talking about and don't care. I crack the whip: "Bedtime!"
So Camryn leans over and kisses AJ on the forehead and says, "I love you, AJ".
To which he replies, "I hate you."
Awhile later as Mark and I are watching TV I, forgetting about the "I hate you" moment, start gushing about how good of a little student AJ is becoming and how sweet I think he is to worry about his schoolwork so much.
Mark agrees, and points out how sweet Camryn is too because of how she kissed AJ and said she loves him at bedtime.
Total moment of parental pride, right?
So I ask, "Well did you hear AJ's response?" He says he didn't.
I tell Mark that AJ said "I hate you".
Mark starts laughing and I'm all, "What?"
I guess my brain wasn't firing on all synapses because I wasn't getting the irony.
Mark goes, "Oh yeah, AJ is so sweet! One minute he's all emotional about his homework and the next he hates his sister."
We both start cracking up!
And it's all downhill from there. We start dissecting the Jekyll and Hyde intricacies of our son, sweet vs. evil, and we're laughing so hard we can hardly breathe!
So then I go, "I'm gonna have to blog about this."
Now it's you're turn!
Bring me your happy, funny, special....
And link it up!
(Button in the sidebar. Keeping linky open until the 1st now!)
 |
| IDK if it's weird to link a linky to a linky, but , you know...it just fits! |
August 31, 2012
TGIF: August 2012
Welcome to the very first MONTHLY....
Ah, August! The driest month of the year where I live. Besides one tiny little heat wave, the weather has been very nice indeed.
Things that have been making me happy this month include:
What became my "summer project", watching all 7 seasons of Bones so that I could pick up with the rest of the world when season 8 begins on September 17. It is really a very good show.
The monotony of summer days broken up by Camryn's week at summer camp and both kids' week-long trip to their grandparents' house in Oregon.
Related to the above is #kidvaction! Mark and I got our very first parenting vacation in 12long years this month. We both enjoyed it, and missed them. I am now convinced that absence really does make the heart grow fonder, because after several kid-free days, we began wanting to do and buy things for them. No reason, just cuz we love 'em. Sheesh.
Not waiting til the last minute to buy school supplies.
Conquering a fear by going shooting. It was actually kind of empowering.
Photos, photos, photos!
Your turn! What's your August HAPPY?
(Come back on Tuesday the 4th for September's Did You Know? link-up!)
Ah, August! The driest month of the year where I live. Besides one tiny little heat wave, the weather has been very nice indeed.
Things that have been making me happy this month include:
What became my "summer project", watching all 7 seasons of Bones so that I could pick up with the rest of the world when season 8 begins on September 17. It is really a very good show.
The monotony of summer days broken up by Camryn's week at summer camp and both kids' week-long trip to their grandparents' house in Oregon.
Related to the above is #kidvaction! Mark and I got our very first parenting vacation in 12
Not waiting til the last minute to buy school supplies.
Conquering a fear by going shooting. It was actually kind of empowering.
Photos, photos, photos!
 |
| Cool old church |
 |
| Just me |
 |
| Sunset |
 |
| Cotton candy clouds |
 |
| Seattle |
And starting tomorrow, I will be participating in Adopt A Pantry which is being organized by the mastermind behind Run Blog Give, Jamie at Chosen Chaos. We are encouraging ourselves and YOU to keep track of the days we exercise and donate to local food banks from September 1 - Novermber 17, just in time for Thanksgiving donations. You know how I feel about feeding the hungry, so I am HAPPILY all over this!
Your turn! What's your August HAPPY?
(Come back on Tuesday the 4th for September's Did You Know? link-up!)
July 20, 2012
TGIF: Just July
Hello lovely people who read my blog! It's....
This is the 45th TGIF and I have to admit, I'm getting a little burned out on it.
Not burned out on HAPPINESS, of course. Never that!
Just the weekly commitment of writing a post or having a guest and hosting a link-up. A link up that's not even a huge hit.
And that's OK. I understand that Fri-Sun seem to be pretty iffy blogging days for most. I don't take it personally.
Unless I should. Should I? Do people not like me enough to link up with me? Is there something wrong with my blog? Does it have cooties?
Pfft. Whatever. People just aren't as happy as I am. Yeah, I bet that's it! Ssh ssh, there there, blog, my precious, don't listen to those meanies....
Moving on!
So, I have one more guest lined up for next week and I haven't asked anyone for August yet, so I think it's a good time to stop keeping up with this little meme.
In the meantime....July is usually a pretty good month around here, and this one is no exception.
We had the 4th of July:
Camryn's birthday:
Our anniversary:
Also....
And yesterday? I decided there was no good reason why I shouldn't be able to mow the lawn if I feel the need (and if Mark isn't up to it). I turned to twitter for help with starting the lawnmower. One of the people helping was my BFF @MomRocksMeals who, after the deed was done, offered, "You came, you mowed, you kicked some grass!"
Hahahaha! I am pretty proud of myself. Both Mark and my dad said I did a good job. I'm still afraid to grill, though.
PS: If you're interested in helping to feed the hungry, especially kids during the summer, please check out my Fruit for All Project Giveaway. I'll be drawing the winner of 400 meals donated to their local food bank tomorrow morning!
This is the 45th TGIF and I have to admit, I'm getting a little burned out on it.
Not burned out on HAPPINESS, of course. Never that!
Just the weekly commitment of writing a post or having a guest and hosting a link-up. A link up that's not even a huge hit.
And that's OK. I understand that Fri-Sun seem to be pretty iffy blogging days for most. I don't take it personally.
Unless I should. Should I? Do people not like me enough to link up with me? Is there something wrong with my blog? Does it have cooties?
Moving on!
So, I have one more guest lined up for next week and I haven't asked anyone for August yet, so I think it's a good time to stop keeping up with this little meme.
In the meantime....July is usually a pretty good month around here, and this one is no exception.
We had the 4th of July:
Camryn's birthday:
Our anniversary:
Also....
 |
| An outing with Grampa |
 |
| This bowl of watermelon makes me happy! |
And yesterday? I decided there was no good reason why I shouldn't be able to mow the lawn if I feel the need (and if Mark isn't up to it). I turned to twitter for help with starting the lawnmower. One of the people helping was my BFF @MomRocksMeals who, after the deed was done, offered, "You came, you mowed, you kicked some grass!"
Hahahaha! I am pretty proud of myself. Both Mark and my dad said I did a good job. I'm still afraid to grill, though.
Now it's your turn to spread the HAPPY!
Write. Button. Link.
PS: If you're interested in helping to feed the hungry, especially kids during the summer, please check out my Fruit for All Project Giveaway. I'll be drawing the winner of 400 meals donated to their local food bank tomorrow morning!
July 13, 2012
TGIF: Bees With Honey Edition
Another two weeks, another guest for....
Today I bring you the lovely, the sweet, my Canadian neighbor, Bruna of Bees With Honey!
And I think having her write a TGIF post in the summer was exactly how it was meant to work out. Because, as you will see, this girl loves summer!
TGIFS: Thank God it’s Finally Summer!
I don’t know about anyone else or anywhere else, but the beginning of summer was long overdue here where I live in beautiful British Columbia, Canada.
Now that it’s here, I’m in my glory and it’s because summer, to me, is like it being Friday every day for 10 full weeks. Summer, of course, is way longer than 10 weeks but once we’re back to school; summer is officially over even if the season still continues. You know what I mean? Back to work, back to reality.
Some parents love summer break and others hate it. Some love having their children home for the long haul while other parents go bananas trying to keep them entertained and out of their hair.
As a teacher, I am one of those parents who feel blessed to be able to stay home with the kiddos
during the two month break from school and for oh so many reasons!
Summer means …
being able to keep the kids up later at night and sleeping past 8am every morning.
no mad rush to get anyone ready for school or work in the mornings including myself.
no making lunches every night and laying out clothes for the next day.
no homework to help with.
BBQ dinners every night and dining out on our back deck.
Sharing Corona’s, Bud-Light Limes, Sangria and margarita drinks with friends.
sprinklers, slip and slides and swimming for the kids.
bike riding.
weekend road trips to the USA to visit my husband’s family and friends.
outlet mall shopping. Need I say more?
camping.
time spent at my parent’s summer home in Birch Bay, Washington.
wearing flip-flops, shorts and tank-tops and enjoying the wonderful warmth of the sun’s rays.
beautifully, coloured and manicured toes.
roasting marshmallows and making S’mores by the fire.
taking photos of my family with my digital SLR Nikon camera and playing around with different settings and lenses.
weekend getaways with just the hubby while grandparents watch our girls for us.
lots of rest and relaxation!
and so much more!
Summer is my favourite season of the year. I am truly at my happiest when the sun is shining, I am warm, surrounded by family and relaxed.
Life doesn’t get much better than this!
Thank you to Jennifer for having me as a guest on her blog. I feel honoured she invited me to share her bloggy space today. I love her TGIF meme and encourage all of you to link-up your happy every Friday. Tell all your friends about it too!
I think I must agree with much of what Bruna has said here. While I think there are things to love about all the seasons, summer in the Pacific Northwest is just such a treat.
Today I bring you the lovely, the sweet, my Canadian neighbor, Bruna of Bees With Honey!
And I think having her write a TGIF post in the summer was exactly how it was meant to work out. Because, as you will see, this girl loves summer!
* * *
TGIFS: Thank God it’s Finally Summer!
I don’t know about anyone else or anywhere else, but the beginning of summer was long overdue here where I live in beautiful British Columbia, Canada.
Now that it’s here, I’m in my glory and it’s because summer, to me, is like it being Friday every day for 10 full weeks. Summer, of course, is way longer than 10 weeks but once we’re back to school; summer is officially over even if the season still continues. You know what I mean? Back to work, back to reality.
Some parents love summer break and others hate it. Some love having their children home for the long haul while other parents go bananas trying to keep them entertained and out of their hair.
As a teacher, I am one of those parents who feel blessed to be able to stay home with the kiddos
during the two month break from school and for oh so many reasons!
Summer means …
being able to keep the kids up later at night and sleeping past 8am every morning.
no mad rush to get anyone ready for school or work in the mornings including myself.
no making lunches every night and laying out clothes for the next day.
no homework to help with.
BBQ dinners every night and dining out on our back deck.
Sharing Corona’s, Bud-Light Limes, Sangria and margarita drinks with friends.
sprinklers, slip and slides and swimming for the kids.
bike riding.
weekend road trips to the USA to visit my husband’s family and friends.
outlet mall shopping. Need I say more?
camping.
time spent at my parent’s summer home in Birch Bay, Washington.
wearing flip-flops, shorts and tank-tops and enjoying the wonderful warmth of the sun’s rays.
beautifully, coloured and manicured toes.
roasting marshmallows and making S’mores by the fire.
taking photos of my family with my digital SLR Nikon camera and playing around with different settings and lenses.
weekend getaways with just the hubby while grandparents watch our girls for us.
lots of rest and relaxation!
and so much more!
Summer is my favourite season of the year. I am truly at my happiest when the sun is shining, I am warm, surrounded by family and relaxed.
Thank you to Jennifer for having me as a guest on her blog. I feel honoured she invited me to share her bloggy space today. I love her TGIF meme and encourage all of you to link-up your happy every Friday. Tell all your friends about it too!
* * *
I think I must agree with much of what Bruna has said here. While I think there are things to love about all the seasons, summer in the Pacific Northwest is just such a treat.
If you don't already know Bees With Honey, check out your follow options:
Now I want to hear YOUR happy, so write, include the button, link!
July 6, 2012
TGIF: Wine Tasting & Guest Posting
No, wine tasting and guest posting normally have nothing to do with each other. But today, they do....
....because....I am happy about these two things today.
My friend Carin is a sales consultant for Wine Shop at Home. And our friend Jessica is hosting a wine tasting party tonight. Carin's Weier Wine Shop brings wine tasting TO YOUR HOME! You don't have to dress up to go to a fancy winery, which is so nice for a casual gal like me. I'm really looking forward to trying the wine too, because I've heard nothing but good things about it. This is going to be an awesome GNO!
So ummm, if you notice some drunk tweets from me later on tonight, it's the wine talking.
The other thing I'm happy about today is a guest post I've written for Brandy at Momwich.
It's called Complicated Cool and it should be up RIGHT NOW! It's about how my family may be somewhat different from other families, but we're still a family just like yours. I hope you will go read it and say hi to me over there.
PS: Danielle and I will be hosting a belated Did You Know? blog hop next Tuesday the 10th. We hope you'll want to share something interesting and link up!
....because....I am happy about these two things today.
My friend Carin is a sales consultant for Wine Shop at Home. And our friend Jessica is hosting a wine tasting party tonight. Carin's Weier Wine Shop brings wine tasting TO YOUR HOME! You don't have to dress up to go to a fancy winery, which is so nice for a casual gal like me. I'm really looking forward to trying the wine too, because I've heard nothing but good things about it. This is going to be an awesome GNO!
So ummm, if you notice some drunk tweets from me later on tonight, it's the wine talking.
The other thing I'm happy about today is a guest post I've written for Brandy at Momwich.
But first, share some happy with me by linking up below!
PS: Danielle and I will be hosting a belated Did You Know? blog hop next Tuesday the 10th. We hope you'll want to share something interesting and link up!
June 29, 2012
TGIF: By Word of Mouth Edition
Playing TGIF leapfrog means it's a guest post week!
This week I bring you a homeschooling, adoptive mom, Nicole of By Word of Mouth Musings. She blogs about pretty much every aspect of her life, and has a very cute and unique blog design. She doesn't know this, but it was Nicole who inspired me to start making cute, pin-able quote graphics for my posts (one of hers is included below).
As you will see, it would make Nicole happy if it were easier to set good examples for our kids....
Thank you for saying HI to me over here in the bloghome of Just Jennifer. Her tagline is so true of life, it is so honest - since it really is a roller coaster, don't you think? Mine sure is, each and every day.
This week I bring you a homeschooling, adoptive mom, Nicole of By Word of Mouth Musings. She blogs about pretty much every aspect of her life, and has a very cute and unique blog design. She doesn't know this, but it was Nicole who inspired me to start making cute, pin-able quote graphics for my posts (one of hers is included below).
As you will see, it would make Nicole happy if it were easier to set good examples for our kids....
* * *
Thank you for saying HI to me over here in the bloghome of Just Jennifer. Her tagline is so true of life, it is so honest - since it really is a roller coaster, don't you think? Mine sure is, each and every day.
(yes, I really want to change it)
I thought today I would write a post on the 'words we use'.
As in do you Talk that Talk, but then you do not Walk that Walk?
I do. I admit it. So very often.
I tell my children right from wrong all of the time, and tell them why they should behave in a certain way.
But do I always set a good example?
No, I really do not. Sometimes, honestly, they are just empty words.
So guilty of the 'do as I say and really not as I do' ... at all.
Like so many other parents out there who are really just not going the full distance..
And let me clarify, I don't just mean where I tell the kids there is not going to be any kind of snack before a meal, you know, because we are eating really soon. Then I sneak a chocolate cookie out of our pantry (please tell me that you do that too) I mean the times where I tell them that if you don't have anything nice or positive to say about a person or a friend, then perhaps you should just keep it all to yourself.
Then I find myself on the phone with a friend doing exactly that about someone else that I know.
Or that little chat recently with the police officer lady who objected to my being in the handicapped area on my cellphone - I told her I was looking down at directions, but she kindly offered to give a $250.00 fine none the less. The girlfriend on the other side of the phone thought it was quite hilarious, and my kids were truly amused - but really I had just shown them right there and then that it was okay to lie when it suited.
Our kids need to see us Walk the Walk, from when they are really tiny, itty bitty little things. We definitely teach them every single day by the example we set.
They mimic us from the very moment they smile back at us, when they do that oh so cute backwards wave, and play a game of peek a boo. They watch us all of the time, and they learn from us too. Look here while Mom takes a big bite out of this supah healthy apple. Look here while Mom is washing her hands before dinner. Look here at Mom. Yes, look at Mom.
Now look at Mommy as she ignores that voice on the housephone. Don't get it. Don't pick it up right now. I just don't have time to chat with that person for the next hour. See Mommy as she glazes over while looking at her own phone. And while she ignores that little face waiting for her attention.
Little white lies and yes, we use them all of the time. Sometimes, let us be honest here, we even want to hear them. Like that lie I expect my husband to tell me when I know my pants are just a little snug - I want to hear that my butt is adorable. I encourage him to lie, yes, its quite sad really.
And so is our walk in faith. We are there in the talk, but not always in the walk.. We pray only when we really desire something, and then not even every day. When the going gets a little tough for us, then we turn to God. Usually only when we finally hit a wall. This right here, is what we are showing our children. So let us pledge to make a difference. Right here and right now.
Do you ever use that old saying, that all Mom's have eyes right there in the back of their heads. Yes, we do and we always know everything that is going on. Instead you can just use this one ... The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good. (Proverbs 15:3)
My children have sure heard THAT one often enough ... it is also time to remind myself. Always ...
They mimic us from the very moment they smile back at us, when they do that oh so cute backwards wave, and play a game of peek a boo. They watch us all of the time, and they learn from us too. Look here while Mom takes a big bite out of this supah healthy apple. Look here while Mom is washing her hands before dinner. Look here at Mom. Yes, look at Mom.
Now look at Mommy as she ignores that voice on the housephone. Don't get it. Don't pick it up right now. I just don't have time to chat with that person for the next hour. See Mommy as she glazes over while looking at her own phone. And while she ignores that little face waiting for her attention.
Little white lies and yes, we use them all of the time. Sometimes, let us be honest here, we even want to hear them. Like that lie I expect my husband to tell me when I know my pants are just a little snug - I want to hear that my butt is adorable. I encourage him to lie, yes, its quite sad really.
And so is our walk in faith. We are there in the talk, but not always in the walk.. We pray only when we really desire something, and then not even every day. When the going gets a little tough for us, then we turn to God. Usually only when we finally hit a wall. This right here, is what we are showing our children. So let us pledge to make a difference. Right here and right now.
Do you ever use that old saying, that all Mom's have eyes right there in the back of their heads. Yes, we do and we always know everything that is going on. Instead you can just use this one ... The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good. (Proverbs 15:3)
My children have sure heard THAT one often enough ... it is also time to remind myself. Always ...
Find me on Facebook
The Twitter
and that new addiction, Pinterest
* * *
Definitely good stuff to think about. Wouldn't it be so nice if our kids never noticed the naughtier things we sometimes do? Sigh.
Now it's your turn. Write up some happy, grab the button and link away!
Don't forget to visit Nicole's place too!
June 8, 2012
TGIF: Grampa's Backyard....and a Poem
Welcome to your spot for celebrating the end of the week!
Nothing fancy here. Was just using my phone....
And then this....
Last week in my Fine post I told you about my daughter's end-of-the-year school project all about who she is. She's writing several stories and poems for it. Again, I got her permission to share this. Don't know if anyone else will love it like her mom and dad do, but we sure think it's great!
She's not actually a teenager yet, will turn 12 next month. I find it interesting that she constantly claims to hate her brother, wish she had a sister instead and wouldn't mind a bit if he were gone, yet "sister" is one of her biggest identifiers. Uh hu, can't fool me, Cami!
A few weeks ago we went over to my dad's house for the afternoon. It was a very nice, sunny spring day. The kids played frisbee, AJ climbed a tree and I roamed around taking pictures of all the blooms.
The sunny, pretty family time made me happy, so that's what I want to share today. (Especially because things are quite the opposite as I sit here putting this post together.)
And then this....
Last week in my Fine post I told you about my daughter's end-of-the-year school project all about who she is. She's writing several stories and poems for it. Again, I got her permission to share this. Don't know if anyone else will love it like her mom and dad do, but we sure think it's great!
Who Am I?
A daughter, a sister, a friend
Do other people really know who I am?
To my parents I am their favorite little girl
To my teachers I am a sweet, hard-working student
Always special
Sometimes I am annoying to my little brother
And sometimes I am hard working at my chores
I am parts of my mom
Parts of my dad
Parts of my friends
Parts of my community and parts of the world
I am a sixth grader, but mostly a
teenager, and I admit also a child
Pieces of a puzzle that I think might fit together someday
I am awake, alert and ready to meet my world
To become a nurse, to learn everything I need to know
You may not believe it, but sometimes I am very stubborn
I am also a good listener, a good worker, who tries her best
I am a rememberer, and a forgetter
There are times when I feel like cooking with my dad
When I love spending time with my mom
When I feel totally happy and satisfied
Who Am I?
A daughter, a sister, a friend
And most of all Camryn Rose Hall
Alright, bring on the HAPPY! Grab the button and link up.
June 1, 2012
TGIF: g*funk*ified Edition
It's time for a guest post....
And it's coming to you today from a super sweet and awesome gal named Greta Funk who calls her blog g*funk*ified!
Greta recently put her sassy pants on and revamped her blog. She has an awesome weekly meme, Great Expectations, which I have written for. Not only is Greta a terrific blogger, but she's also the mom of 4 and getting there hasn't been easy. She lost her first husband and had to pick up the pieces with two little kids. She did, and her life is full and beautiful and happy!
Speaking of HAPPY, here's Greta's....
I have a lot to be thankful for. A LOT to be happy about. So, why am I writing about potty training??
We started potty training child #3 this week. She’ll be 3 in July. She’s our little celiac, so even if we had wanted to potty train her earlier (and I didn’t. I’m a lazy potty trainer, yo.), we couldn’t have until we had her celiac disease (and bowels) under control.
I’m also a card-carrying member of the potty-train-in-a-weekend-with-a-nekkid-kid-and-a-potty-chair-close-by-at-all-times school. I’ve done this twice before. I’m practically valedictorian.
But day one of potty training the 2 year old? AN ABSOLUTE NIGHTMARE. It was the worst potty training experience I’ve had in over four years of potty training. I feel like I should’ve flunked out. FAILED. From the minute she woke up and I took her diaper off, she cried and cried and cried. “But I don’t want to be naked!” (imagine the whiniest voice you’ve heard in your life). All day long, nothing but accidents, crying, whining. The only time she was quiet was when she fell asleep in living room chair, naked from the waist down.
She’s almost three….shouldn’t this be easy?
So, by now you’re asking, where the heck does the HAPPY come into this post? Am I right??
Well, today we got up, came downstairs and I put her on the toilet. She cried. “But I don’t want to be NAKED!” I wasn’t backing down, of course not. Not unless I want to be potty training her until kindergarten.
So, what did I do? I asked her 4 (almost 5) year old sister, who she looks up to, loves with all her little might, and wants to be exactly like, if she would get naked, too. And she was. In 0.2 seconds (because she LOVES to be naked). And the 2yo was happy again. And still naked.
I know this is going to be a long process, but we’re making progress. And maybe we’ll get some pee in the potty today.
Happy TGIF, y’all!
You know what makes ME happy? That both my kids are fully potty trained!
Greta, you tell Essie she'll never regret learning how to go on the toilet. Truth.
Let's see, here are all the places Istalk follow Greta, and so should you....
PS: Next Tuesday (6/5) is Did You Know? day here and at motherhood: TRUTH! You can share something completely and seriously true, or try to convince us of some BS. Either way, we'd love to see ya!
And it's coming to you today from a super sweet and awesome gal named Greta Funk who calls her blog g*funk*ified!
Greta recently put her sassy pants on and revamped her blog. She has an awesome weekly meme, Great Expectations, which I have written for. Not only is Greta a terrific blogger, but she's also the mom of 4 and getting there hasn't been easy. She lost her first husband and had to pick up the pieces with two little kids. She did, and her life is full and beautiful and happy!
Speaking of HAPPY, here's Greta's....
* * *
I have a lot to be thankful for. A LOT to be happy about. So, why am I writing about potty training??
We started potty training child #3 this week. She’ll be 3 in July. She’s our little celiac, so even if we had wanted to potty train her earlier (and I didn’t. I’m a lazy potty trainer, yo.), we couldn’t have until we had her celiac disease (and bowels) under control.
I’m also a card-carrying member of the potty-train-in-a-weekend-with-a-nekkid-kid-and-a-potty-chair-close-by-at-all-times school. I’ve done this twice before. I’m practically valedictorian.
But day one of potty training the 2 year old? AN ABSOLUTE NIGHTMARE. It was the worst potty training experience I’ve had in over four years of potty training. I feel like I should’ve flunked out. FAILED. From the minute she woke up and I took her diaper off, she cried and cried and cried. “But I don’t want to be naked!” (imagine the whiniest voice you’ve heard in your life). All day long, nothing but accidents, crying, whining. The only time she was quiet was when she fell asleep in living room chair, naked from the waist down.
So, by now you’re asking, where the heck does the HAPPY come into this post? Am I right??
Well, today we got up, came downstairs and I put her on the toilet. She cried. “But I don’t want to be NAKED!” I wasn’t backing down, of course not. Not unless I want to be potty training her until kindergarten.
So, what did I do? I asked her 4 (almost 5) year old sister, who she looks up to, loves with all her little might, and wants to be exactly like, if she would get naked, too. And she was. In 0.2 seconds (because she LOVES to be naked). And the 2yo was happy again. And still naked.
I know this is going to be a long process, but we’re making progress. And maybe we’ll get some pee in the potty today.
Happy TGIF, y’all!
* * *
Oh, the glamorous life of a Mommy! Potty training is F-U-N fun! (That's my story and I'm stickin' to it!)
You know what makes ME happy? That both my kids are fully potty trained!
Greta, you tell Essie she'll never regret learning how to go on the toilet. Truth.
Let's see, here are all the places I
(You can also look her up on Instagram as gfunkified.)
Wanna share some happy with me and Greta? Write, grab the button and link up!
PS: Next Tuesday (6/5) is Did You Know? day here and at motherhood: TRUTH! You can share something completely and seriously true, or try to convince us of some BS. Either way, we'd love to see ya!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)