I want to give a big shout-out to my sister, Cara! This past Friday, she found out that she was accepted into the Physical Therapy Assistant's program and we are all so excited for her! Cara currently works at a Physical Therapist's office and she said that when she got the email she started jumping up and down and crying - all in front of her patients! I am sure it was a somewhat funny sight but if they all knew all the work in getting to this point, they would have jumped up and down too - and maybe shed a tear as well.
I love it when people are able to be in a career that they are passionate about, one that uses their strengths, and also have fun in the process. For Cara, being a PTA is the perfect fit for her. She has a big heart for people and this position allows her to help people who are really in need. She definitely has some hilarious stories from working with people but what I have learned is that even as she helps them with their physical needs - I know that she is also making an even bigger difference in their lives. Cara has a very positive outlook on life, is a lot of fun to be around, and genuinely cares for people. Many of her patients love her and ask for her when they come into the office. Any of you that know her would not be surprised to hear this.
Over the last couple of years, Cara has been working hard at school and preparing for her acceptance into the program. Although at times I know it has been overwhelming, she has done an amazing job at balancing marriage, work, and school. She has made sacrifices and spent hours and hours studying for each test and working on each paper that was written. She has been determined to get into this program and truly believed that it would happen. All of the hours spent studying, all of the papers that were written, the preparation for her interview, and the belief that it will happen all paid off for her and I could not be more proud! She deserves this so much and I am very excited to see what the future holds for her!
Today I am grateful for: 1. Help from friends over the weekend 2. Great church service yesterday 3. Cara getting accepted into the PTA program 4. Being motivated by Cara's hard work 5. Seeing great things happen to deserving people
Monday, May 16, 2011
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Remembering the impact of one life...
It was seven years ago today that my dad passed away. I can still remember every moment of that day and it seems like some of the smallest details are the ones that still mean so much. For those that do not know, my dad died of brain cancer at the age of 53. He was diagnosed in July of 2003 and passed away ten months later. These were some of the worst moments of my life but also some of the most meaningful because my family was able to all be together those ten months and share in beautiful memories that we will hold forever. I know now that time was truly a gift given to each of us and for that I am forever grateful.
When I think about the people in my life that have had the greatest impact on me, my dad is definitely at the top of the list. He was such an example of selflessness, living life with purpose, and knowing that true joy came in knowing his Creator. His greatest moments in life were those spent with family and friends. He helped countless people that were in need and did so without receiving credit or praise. He also instilled in me and my sisters the importance of faith and how that is the very foundation of a fulfilled life.
What I love about my dad is that he was an ordinary man who chose to live an extraordinary life. When I say "ordinary" I am talking about the world's perspective. He was not famous but that is what he preferred. He lived his life as best as he knew how and in doing so - he made a difference in the lives of so many people. I continue to hear today of how he changed lives simply by living his with purpose and it challenges me to do the same with mine.
It is true that when someone dies, those who remain will continue with their lives. There are many days that I think of Dad and smile and know that he would love seeing how our lives have turned out. Today is a hard day though, because I also remember the pain of losing him. There are so many moments that I wish he was here to see. There are many times that I wish I could sit and talk with him. When I do have situations come up and I wonder what Dad's advice would be - I seem to already know what he would say. And in moments of being together with family, I can still feel a part of him with us. This particular day does not seem to get any easier but I also know that the pain that we all feel on this day comes from a love for a man that meant so much to each of us.
On May 12, 2004, Dad took his last breath here on earth and began living his new life in a place of perfection. It was in that moment that he began to truly reap the rewards of a life well lived. I am motivated to live my life more and more each day because of his example. I know that he would not want any of the praise or attention and he would tell all of us to live our lives for the One who gave us eternal life. As I continue to hear of what this man's life meant to so many people, I am honored and consider it such a privilege to have had the opportunity to call him Dad.
Today I am grateful for: 1. How each day is a gift 2. My family and how incredibly blessed I am to have each one in my life 3. The 28 years I had with Dad 4. The example of a life well lived 5. Knowing that one day I will see him again
When I think about the people in my life that have had the greatest impact on me, my dad is definitely at the top of the list. He was such an example of selflessness, living life with purpose, and knowing that true joy came in knowing his Creator. His greatest moments in life were those spent with family and friends. He helped countless people that were in need and did so without receiving credit or praise. He also instilled in me and my sisters the importance of faith and how that is the very foundation of a fulfilled life.
What I love about my dad is that he was an ordinary man who chose to live an extraordinary life. When I say "ordinary" I am talking about the world's perspective. He was not famous but that is what he preferred. He lived his life as best as he knew how and in doing so - he made a difference in the lives of so many people. I continue to hear today of how he changed lives simply by living his with purpose and it challenges me to do the same with mine.
It is true that when someone dies, those who remain will continue with their lives. There are many days that I think of Dad and smile and know that he would love seeing how our lives have turned out. Today is a hard day though, because I also remember the pain of losing him. There are so many moments that I wish he was here to see. There are many times that I wish I could sit and talk with him. When I do have situations come up and I wonder what Dad's advice would be - I seem to already know what he would say. And in moments of being together with family, I can still feel a part of him with us. This particular day does not seem to get any easier but I also know that the pain that we all feel on this day comes from a love for a man that meant so much to each of us.
On May 12, 2004, Dad took his last breath here on earth and began living his new life in a place of perfection. It was in that moment that he began to truly reap the rewards of a life well lived. I am motivated to live my life more and more each day because of his example. I know that he would not want any of the praise or attention and he would tell all of us to live our lives for the One who gave us eternal life. As I continue to hear of what this man's life meant to so many people, I am honored and consider it such a privilege to have had the opportunity to call him Dad.
Today I am grateful for: 1. How each day is a gift 2. My family and how incredibly blessed I am to have each one in my life 3. The 28 years I had with Dad 4. The example of a life well lived 5. Knowing that one day I will see him again
Monday, May 9, 2011
Celebrating Moms and a lesson in Meekness...
Yesterday was a great day having all my family over for lunch to celebrate Mother's Day! I originally told everyone that we would eat around 1:30pm and that no one would have to help - I would have it all ready for them so that Mom and Christy would not have to do any work on Mom's Day. At least my intentions were good. We finally started eating at 3:00pm, everyone was starving, and it became a team effort between Mom, Christy, and myself to get it all done! Oh well, so much for doing it all on my own. It was definitely fun all being together and of course Martha Ann and Wylie were looking as cute as ever and making all of us smile (except when it got to be nap time and they were not as fun to be around). I hope that Mom and Christy both felt loved and appreciated for all the hard work that they do day in and day out. And of course like any other family day, there was lots of talking, laughter, and funny stories!
Yesterday at church, the pastor continued his series on Anything But Ordinary. He spoke on the verse, Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Meekness can be defined as strength under control. The pastor said that those who do not possess the quality of meekness could be defensive when others point out faults, they could try and control certain situations, and might feel the need to win at arguments. I am going to be honest and say that as he spoke, all I could think was - Wow, I am not a very meek person! It was almost one of those moments where I felt like there was a spotlight on me and I really needed to learn something. I will admit that some of my faults do come from not being very meek. I have been known to be a little controlling at times and instead of listening when people point out a fault of mine, my instinct is to fire back and get very defensive. Some of this is our human nature but those who are genuinely meek have that strength under control. They are the ones who are so comfortable in their own skin and possess a certain level of confidence that they can take criticism well and are not afraid to let others win.
Some might ask - why do you want to be meek? For many, it goes against what the world says to pursue. However, according to this verse, those who are meek are the ones that will actually inherit the earth. I believe that this means that they will experience true and lasting happiness. We all know people who seem to experience success no matter what they do - but a lot of that could be fleeting and those who are meek are the ones that lay their head down at night knowing who they are and feel very fulfilled in life. The pastor ended by challenging each of us to have this prayer in life: To have the power of patience and the wisdom of calm. He said that most mothers already possess this quality and I would definitely agree. So now it is becoming one of my desires in life. I am not a patient person and I have been told that I do not always remain calm in certain situations (otherwise known as a Kevin freak out moment). It will not happen overnight for me, but I will try over time to learn to be more meek and possess strength under control.
Today I am grateful for: 1. Really great work days over the weekend. 2. Having a great family day yesterday 3. Mom and all that she does for all of her kids 4. Christy and how she is an example of a great mother 4. Being challenged in the area of meekness 5. Staying strong in my healthy eating amidst temptation
Yesterday at church, the pastor continued his series on Anything But Ordinary. He spoke on the verse, Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Meekness can be defined as strength under control. The pastor said that those who do not possess the quality of meekness could be defensive when others point out faults, they could try and control certain situations, and might feel the need to win at arguments. I am going to be honest and say that as he spoke, all I could think was - Wow, I am not a very meek person! It was almost one of those moments where I felt like there was a spotlight on me and I really needed to learn something. I will admit that some of my faults do come from not being very meek. I have been known to be a little controlling at times and instead of listening when people point out a fault of mine, my instinct is to fire back and get very defensive. Some of this is our human nature but those who are genuinely meek have that strength under control. They are the ones who are so comfortable in their own skin and possess a certain level of confidence that they can take criticism well and are not afraid to let others win.
Some might ask - why do you want to be meek? For many, it goes against what the world says to pursue. However, according to this verse, those who are meek are the ones that will actually inherit the earth. I believe that this means that they will experience true and lasting happiness. We all know people who seem to experience success no matter what they do - but a lot of that could be fleeting and those who are meek are the ones that lay their head down at night knowing who they are and feel very fulfilled in life. The pastor ended by challenging each of us to have this prayer in life: To have the power of patience and the wisdom of calm. He said that most mothers already possess this quality and I would definitely agree. So now it is becoming one of my desires in life. I am not a patient person and I have been told that I do not always remain calm in certain situations (otherwise known as a Kevin freak out moment). It will not happen overnight for me, but I will try over time to learn to be more meek and possess strength under control.
Today I am grateful for: 1. Really great work days over the weekend. 2. Having a great family day yesterday 3. Mom and all that she does for all of her kids 4. Christy and how she is an example of a great mother 4. Being challenged in the area of meekness 5. Staying strong in my healthy eating amidst temptation
Friday, May 6, 2011
Happy Birthday Mom!
Today's blog is dedicated to one very important lady in my life - my mom! Today is her birthday and Sunday is Mother's Day so it is an entire weekend of celebrating her and what she means to so many people.
My mom is by far one of the most amazing women that I know. She has always had many roles in life and has found a way to balance each one perfectly. Of course my sisters and I are very thankful to call her Mom - but there are also many other people that call her Mom or Momma or Momma B! One thing about Mom is that she has a heart for people and always wants the best for everyone in her life. I know that my sisters and I keep her phone ringing enough with our questions, problems, and need for encouragement - but I also hear stories of her helping many others in their lives, praying with people, and being a listening ear. I can look back at the thirty-five years I have been around and clearly see how Mom is a constant figure that has encouraged me, listened to me, helped me, and inspired me to look outside of myself and find ways to make a difference in other people's lives. She has had her share of ups and downs in life but through it all she has always shown such grace and strength. Her faith in God is the foundation of her life and it is beautifully personified in how she lives each day.
Mom is also one who likes to have a good time, laugh a lot, and be crazy with her friends. Whether it's eating at her favorite Mexican restaurant, going country line-dancing, or riding around in her new Camaro - you can bet that she is loving every minute of it and her energy is contagious to those around her. Another one of her loves is her grandchildren. Yes, she loves her children but I would dare say that if I walked through the door with Martha Ann and Wylie - I don't think I would be the first person that she went to! She fulfills her role well by spoiling them with gifts, giving them treats they probably aren't supposed to have, and making each one of them feel as if they are the only one in the room.
Today is your day Mom... and Sunday is your day, too... and we will just say Saturday is as well so that it is an entire weekend devoted to you! Thanks for all the ways you have helped me become the person I am today. Even as an adult there are many times I need your help and you are always there without hesitation. You definitely make the world a better place and I am so grateful to call you Mom.
Happy Birthday and Happy Mother's Day!!
Today I am grateful for: 1. All the things Mom has taught me about life 2. Her unconditional love 3. Her strong example of grace and strength 4. Mom's love for life 5. A weekend to celebrate Mom and all that she means to so many people
My mom is by far one of the most amazing women that I know. She has always had many roles in life and has found a way to balance each one perfectly. Of course my sisters and I are very thankful to call her Mom - but there are also many other people that call her Mom or Momma or Momma B! One thing about Mom is that she has a heart for people and always wants the best for everyone in her life. I know that my sisters and I keep her phone ringing enough with our questions, problems, and need for encouragement - but I also hear stories of her helping many others in their lives, praying with people, and being a listening ear. I can look back at the thirty-five years I have been around and clearly see how Mom is a constant figure that has encouraged me, listened to me, helped me, and inspired me to look outside of myself and find ways to make a difference in other people's lives. She has had her share of ups and downs in life but through it all she has always shown such grace and strength. Her faith in God is the foundation of her life and it is beautifully personified in how she lives each day.
Mom is also one who likes to have a good time, laugh a lot, and be crazy with her friends. Whether it's eating at her favorite Mexican restaurant, going country line-dancing, or riding around in her new Camaro - you can bet that she is loving every minute of it and her energy is contagious to those around her. Another one of her loves is her grandchildren. Yes, she loves her children but I would dare say that if I walked through the door with Martha Ann and Wylie - I don't think I would be the first person that she went to! She fulfills her role well by spoiling them with gifts, giving them treats they probably aren't supposed to have, and making each one of them feel as if they are the only one in the room.
Today is your day Mom... and Sunday is your day, too... and we will just say Saturday is as well so that it is an entire weekend devoted to you! Thanks for all the ways you have helped me become the person I am today. Even as an adult there are many times I need your help and you are always there without hesitation. You definitely make the world a better place and I am so grateful to call you Mom.
Happy Birthday and Happy Mother's Day!!
Today I am grateful for: 1. All the things Mom has taught me about life 2. Her unconditional love 3. Her strong example of grace and strength 4. Mom's love for life 5. A weekend to celebrate Mom and all that she means to so many people
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Pursuing a Passion...
I believe that each of us have something in life that we are passionate about. Something that we love to do, something we are good at, and is part of what makes us unique individuals. For some, that passion becomes their career, for others it is a hobby, and yet some do not exercise this passion for various reasons. Sometimes you know early on in life what this gift is and sometimes you learn through trial and error.
For me, one of my passions is writing. Growing up in my church, I was very involved in the music program and eventually started writing songs. I found it such a creative way to express my faith and at times, to share with others how I felt. There were many songs written that no one ever heard - probably because they weren't that good. But it was still good to write - whether it was good or bad. It was when I wrote The Journey that I really fell in love with the process of writing. When my dad passed away, I delivered the eulogy and in those moments of painful writing, I knew that I wanted to write a book about his life. It took a few years of writing off and on to complete it, but it was not only therapeutic for me - it helped me to share with others about one of the most important people in my life. I really enjoyed the days that I would write. It was great working with an editor, which really helped improve the quality of the book. Although my original intent was to write it for my family, it has been very encouraging to hear from others and see how it made a difference in their lives.
Doing this blog this year is another thing I really love doing. Although I have not been able to blog every day like I intended, I really enjoy getting up in the mornings and writing down my thoughts. For me, it is somewhat like therapy and accountability all in one. I definitely plan to stay committed to blogging and hopefully turn it into something more as time goes on. I also plan to start writing another book soon. I have a few ideas, but I am waiting to see what I really want to devote my time and energy to working on. I desire to get back into that discipline and working on a bigger writing project. To be honest, my ultimate desire right now would be to turn writing into a career. Oprah always says to know what you love doing and then find a way to get paid for it. That is what I am working on now. This type of work would definitely be very in line with what I want to be doing in life, especially career wise.
I know that sometimes our jobs may not be exactly what we love doing but I hope that each of you have something you are passionate about and are able to exercise that either through a job or a hobby or in some way. It definitely makes life better and keeps us in sync with why we are here.
And just to give everyone an update - it is day 5 of extreme healthy eating and there have really been some delicious meals made - but I am still craving chocolate like a mad person! Wish me luck!
Today I am grateful for: 1. Beautiful weather outside 2. Remembering that all things work together for the good 3. The best lasagna ever last night 4. Being able to express my thoughts through this blog 5. A love for writing and the desire to pursue it
For me, one of my passions is writing. Growing up in my church, I was very involved in the music program and eventually started writing songs. I found it such a creative way to express my faith and at times, to share with others how I felt. There were many songs written that no one ever heard - probably because they weren't that good. But it was still good to write - whether it was good or bad. It was when I wrote The Journey that I really fell in love with the process of writing. When my dad passed away, I delivered the eulogy and in those moments of painful writing, I knew that I wanted to write a book about his life. It took a few years of writing off and on to complete it, but it was not only therapeutic for me - it helped me to share with others about one of the most important people in my life. I really enjoyed the days that I would write. It was great working with an editor, which really helped improve the quality of the book. Although my original intent was to write it for my family, it has been very encouraging to hear from others and see how it made a difference in their lives.
Doing this blog this year is another thing I really love doing. Although I have not been able to blog every day like I intended, I really enjoy getting up in the mornings and writing down my thoughts. For me, it is somewhat like therapy and accountability all in one. I definitely plan to stay committed to blogging and hopefully turn it into something more as time goes on. I also plan to start writing another book soon. I have a few ideas, but I am waiting to see what I really want to devote my time and energy to working on. I desire to get back into that discipline and working on a bigger writing project. To be honest, my ultimate desire right now would be to turn writing into a career. Oprah always says to know what you love doing and then find a way to get paid for it. That is what I am working on now. This type of work would definitely be very in line with what I want to be doing in life, especially career wise.
I know that sometimes our jobs may not be exactly what we love doing but I hope that each of you have something you are passionate about and are able to exercise that either through a job or a hobby or in some way. It definitely makes life better and keeps us in sync with why we are here.
And just to give everyone an update - it is day 5 of extreme healthy eating and there have really been some delicious meals made - but I am still craving chocolate like a mad person! Wish me luck!
Today I am grateful for: 1. Beautiful weather outside 2. Remembering that all things work together for the good 3. The best lasagna ever last night 4. Being able to express my thoughts through this blog 5. A love for writing and the desire to pursue it
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Why I do what I do...
I wanted to answer a question that was raised yesterday about why I am going extreme healthy eating for one month. I meant to put this in yesterday's blog but forgot about it. There are a couple of reasons really. The first simply has to do with living my best life. Setting goals and challenging myself really helps me to not settle for mediocrity in life. I am always wanting to push myself more and to experience more in life. I have tried giving up various eating habits for a shorter amount of time. I actually was a vegetarian for one full year and really liked that lifestyle which lead to me doing Meatless Mondays. So when the idea came up to really focus on healthy eating for one month I was ready to challenge myself to do that.
The other reason is the idea of Lent. I have never observed Lent before but I do like where the idea comes from. Giving up something in life in the hope that something better will come is a great practice that we all should consider from time to time. I know that technically Lent leads up to Easter but I think the idea of it can apply to any time. I am giving up unhealthy foods for one month in the hope that a healthier, more productive life will come out of it. And the goal is that once the month is over with some of these unhealthy foods will not find their way back into my life. (Chocolate is the exception though - it will definitely make a comeback on June 1st!) So basically, my reason for doing this meets a core need that I have to always want more out of life. My intention is to challenge myself and to see the benefits from doing so. Hopefully this gives a better explanation as to why I do what I do when it comes to these healthy food challenges I have in life.
Yesterday was Meatless Monday and I cannot even explain how good the homemade veggie pizza was last night! One thing I learned (or was reminded of) is when you are making homemade pizza dough - don't forget to flour your hands because I had most of it stuck to my fingers instead of on the baking sheet! But this divine pizza had red and green chilies, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, plum tomatoes, cheese, and a mixture of herbs and omg it was delicious! Seriously people - it was so good!! And then temptation came. I have a new roommate, Josh, that moved in yesterday and he brought home a box of really good chocolate and handed it to me. Jordan is doing this healthy eating with me and when we saw the box of chocolate we could just hear it calling out to us and saying how amazing it would be to try it. I opened the box and smelled it and I have to say - it was like heaven. Basically I wanted to cry. We politely told the other roommate how much we hate him for bringing us that and then stuck the box in the freezer so that we can enjoy it in June! Hopefully it is still good then?! And for the record - it was really nice that Josh brought that and it will definitely be enjoyed in a few weeks :)
I have been told many times before that some of the things I try or the challenges I put on myself are... well, basically they are weird. But it does work for me. I would encourage everyone to set goals - maybe something small - but I guarantee that you will feel that sense of accomplishment and want to do more. In my opinion it does play a part in truly experiencing what life is all about.
Today I am grateful for: 1. A busy but very productive last 3 days 2. Getting an encouraging email from a friend that truly made my day 3. The best veggie pizza 4. Getting through the chocolate temptation 5. Cara's interview going so well!
The other reason is the idea of Lent. I have never observed Lent before but I do like where the idea comes from. Giving up something in life in the hope that something better will come is a great practice that we all should consider from time to time. I know that technically Lent leads up to Easter but I think the idea of it can apply to any time. I am giving up unhealthy foods for one month in the hope that a healthier, more productive life will come out of it. And the goal is that once the month is over with some of these unhealthy foods will not find their way back into my life. (Chocolate is the exception though - it will definitely make a comeback on June 1st!) So basically, my reason for doing this meets a core need that I have to always want more out of life. My intention is to challenge myself and to see the benefits from doing so. Hopefully this gives a better explanation as to why I do what I do when it comes to these healthy food challenges I have in life.
Yesterday was Meatless Monday and I cannot even explain how good the homemade veggie pizza was last night! One thing I learned (or was reminded of) is when you are making homemade pizza dough - don't forget to flour your hands because I had most of it stuck to my fingers instead of on the baking sheet! But this divine pizza had red and green chilies, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, plum tomatoes, cheese, and a mixture of herbs and omg it was delicious! Seriously people - it was so good!! And then temptation came. I have a new roommate, Josh, that moved in yesterday and he brought home a box of really good chocolate and handed it to me. Jordan is doing this healthy eating with me and when we saw the box of chocolate we could just hear it calling out to us and saying how amazing it would be to try it. I opened the box and smelled it and I have to say - it was like heaven. Basically I wanted to cry. We politely told the other roommate how much we hate him for bringing us that and then stuck the box in the freezer so that we can enjoy it in June! Hopefully it is still good then?! And for the record - it was really nice that Josh brought that and it will definitely be enjoyed in a few weeks :)
I have been told many times before that some of the things I try or the challenges I put on myself are... well, basically they are weird. But it does work for me. I would encourage everyone to set goals - maybe something small - but I guarantee that you will feel that sense of accomplishment and want to do more. In my opinion it does play a part in truly experiencing what life is all about.
Today I am grateful for: 1. A busy but very productive last 3 days 2. Getting an encouraging email from a friend that truly made my day 3. The best veggie pizza 4. Getting through the chocolate temptation 5. Cara's interview going so well!
Monday, May 2, 2011
Giving it all up for 31 days...
I have given up cokes for one week and I have given up sweets for one week but I have never done this before! I am giving up all unhealthy foods for the entire month of May. That means no junk food, no cokes, no sweet tea, no fast food, nothing fried, no potato chips, and the worst one of all.... no chocolate for one month! This was not my idea originally but I agreed to it knowing that it would be a challenge for me and I always love a good challenge. I am a health-conscious eater anyway so most of it will not be too hard for me - but the no chips is going to be difficult (how do you eat Mexican food without chips and salsa?!) and I am already having chocolate withdrawals and it's only day two. However, I am committed to this and I am pretty good about following through with something once I say I am going to do it. And this blog serves as my accountability as well so I am sure everyone will hear how it is affecting me as the month goes along - the good, the bad, and the ugly (otherwise known as a "Kevin Mood")
It was a really busy weekend around here! Saturday morning my sister, Cara, ran the Nashville 1/2 Marathon. Yes, it was the race that I was supposed to run with her but due to a few things (mainly it didn't fit into the budget) I decided to wait and run a different 1/2 marathon later in the year. There is one in Chicago in August and that is my favorite city so I might go for that one! Anyway, Cara did really great! She had her best time yet and all of her hard work and training really paid off! There are about 30,000 people that run this marathon and it is such an experience and a great feeling of accomplishment to cross the finish line and I am really proud of her for following through and doing so well!!
Saturday night was spent hanging out with Martha Ann and Wylie. I don't like using the word babysit because they are family and I will take any chance I get to hang out with them. They are both growing up and have such fun personalities! We went to the park here in my neighborhood and of course Martha Ann loved it! I did have help which was good because it is a full time job just chasing Martha Ann around the playground. And of course when it was time to go - it was another full time job carrying Martha Ann out while she cried and tried to get away from me to slide some more :) There was also one moment of projectile vomit from Wylie which landed all over me! It definitely took me by surprise but Wylie looked at me like it was normal so we just cleaned it up and kept playing. But it was a really great night with my two favorite little people and it also gave Christy a chance to socialize with adults for a change and not have the "mommy role" for a few hours.
It was a very busy weekend, but a great one. Church yesterday was really good. Our pastor is starting a series called, Anything But Ordinary, and it focuses on the Beatitudes and how the life we sometimes want to pursue may not actually be the life we are called to live. I am looking forward to it and I already know that parts of it will make it to the blog! I was also able to watch some Oprah Behind the Scenes last night so that always makes for a good day. Her last show is May 25th and anyone that knows me knows that it's going to be a horrible day. I will literally be a mess watching that last show so sympathy cards, flowers, or even cash will probably help me get through that difficult time :)
Well, it's only day two of this extreme healthy eating and all I can think about is a chocolate cupcake! This might end up being one of my greatest challenges yet (OK, maybe a little dramatic) but it is not going to be easy - but that is part of the point of a challenge and getting rid of something unhealthy and replacing it with healthy options. It is all part of that best life we all strive for!
Today I am grateful for: 1. Cara doing so great on the 1/2 Marathon! 2. Hanging out with Martha Ann & Wylie and how much joy they bring to my life 3. Church on Sunday - focusing on what's important 4. Commitment to a challenge even when it's hard 5. The veggie pizza we are making for Meatless Monday tonight!
It was a really busy weekend around here! Saturday morning my sister, Cara, ran the Nashville 1/2 Marathon. Yes, it was the race that I was supposed to run with her but due to a few things (mainly it didn't fit into the budget) I decided to wait and run a different 1/2 marathon later in the year. There is one in Chicago in August and that is my favorite city so I might go for that one! Anyway, Cara did really great! She had her best time yet and all of her hard work and training really paid off! There are about 30,000 people that run this marathon and it is such an experience and a great feeling of accomplishment to cross the finish line and I am really proud of her for following through and doing so well!!
Saturday night was spent hanging out with Martha Ann and Wylie. I don't like using the word babysit because they are family and I will take any chance I get to hang out with them. They are both growing up and have such fun personalities! We went to the park here in my neighborhood and of course Martha Ann loved it! I did have help which was good because it is a full time job just chasing Martha Ann around the playground. And of course when it was time to go - it was another full time job carrying Martha Ann out while she cried and tried to get away from me to slide some more :) There was also one moment of projectile vomit from Wylie which landed all over me! It definitely took me by surprise but Wylie looked at me like it was normal so we just cleaned it up and kept playing. But it was a really great night with my two favorite little people and it also gave Christy a chance to socialize with adults for a change and not have the "mommy role" for a few hours.
It was a very busy weekend, but a great one. Church yesterday was really good. Our pastor is starting a series called, Anything But Ordinary, and it focuses on the Beatitudes and how the life we sometimes want to pursue may not actually be the life we are called to live. I am looking forward to it and I already know that parts of it will make it to the blog! I was also able to watch some Oprah Behind the Scenes last night so that always makes for a good day. Her last show is May 25th and anyone that knows me knows that it's going to be a horrible day. I will literally be a mess watching that last show so sympathy cards, flowers, or even cash will probably help me get through that difficult time :)
Well, it's only day two of this extreme healthy eating and all I can think about is a chocolate cupcake! This might end up being one of my greatest challenges yet (OK, maybe a little dramatic) but it is not going to be easy - but that is part of the point of a challenge and getting rid of something unhealthy and replacing it with healthy options. It is all part of that best life we all strive for!
Today I am grateful for: 1. Cara doing so great on the 1/2 Marathon! 2. Hanging out with Martha Ann & Wylie and how much joy they bring to my life 3. Church on Sunday - focusing on what's important 4. Commitment to a challenge even when it's hard 5. The veggie pizza we are making for Meatless Monday tonight!
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