I have a list

Hi y'all,

I have a list of things I want to get done most every day. However, I would not categorized myself as a Type A personality. Do you know why I write lists? Because I am a crazy person called a mom. I am no longer single and just having to take care of myself. I am no longer just married to another adult who is relatively self-sufficient. I am a mother. I take care of an entire family. They depend on me to get things done. I have so many things rattling around in my head that they get lost in the dark recesses and may not be found until a week past their expiration date. I have to organize and prioritize my time every day because there is so much more that I am responsible for accomplishing.

We make most of our meals at home these days. No, it is not entirely a budget thing. No, it is not entirely a we-want-to-eat-only-healthy-foods thing. The reason is that my husband is allergic to monosodium glutamate or MSG. It is in a surprising number of foods. He gets violent, debilitating migraines that land him in the ER and on superman-like narcotics. I digress. This week we forgot to put chicken nuggets on our list for shopping even though I had made a mental note that we needed more because that is one "meat" we can consistently get Mr. Chaos Little Man to eat. If it is not on my list it usually gets forgotten and discovered at the most inconvenient of times. Like tonight. At least he likes peanut butter sandwiches now. *Pause to insert big smile here* He is definitely my son. Anyone who knows me knows I am a peanut butter addict. I own it. He is totally my kid, hehe.

So, I write lists. I need to mail a package. Put it on the list. Oh, we are almost out of pull-ups because potty training is not really happening. Put it on the list. I want to start my running schedule again. Put it on the list (and then move it to the next day and then the next day because my list is just too long right now). I need to read that chapter before the meeting. Put it on the list. If it is not there then I probably will not do it. Write a blog? Put that on my list.

How do you keep yourself organized?
Blessings,
R

Pat Tillman

Hi y'all,

In keeping with my list and current theme of Veteran's Day and thankfulness I want to bring a man to your attention. His name was Pat Tillman.

Do you know his story? It is good to hear it again if you have. Pat Tillman was an Arizona boy. He excelled in football. He went with his high school team to a championship, then an undefeated season at Arizona State University along with the Rose Bowl in '97 and won many awards. He was then drafted by the AZ Cardinals NFL football team. He played and excelled and became a starter. The United States invaded Afghanistan and he decided to put his thriving football career on hold and enlist. Say WHAT?! You might want to read that again. Go ahead, I will wait.

"Sports embodied many of the qualities I deem meaningful," he said in 2002. "However, these last few years, and especially after recent events, I've come to appreciate just how shallow and insignificant my role is . . . It's no longer important." source


Pat Tillman enlisted in 2002 and lost his life in 2004. I imagine he knew what he was risking. I would even venture a guess that he could appreciate what he was fighting for more than your average joe. He had a successful NFL football career that was still in its early stages. There was a lot left on the field for him. He chose to lay that down and take a up cause he felt was worthwhile and purposeful. Talk about having your priorities questioned!? Some must have thought he was insane and I bet people tried to talk him out of it. Yet, he decided to go. I was not a resident of AZ at that time, nor was I aware of his story, but now, seven years after his death he is still remembered for his extraordinary choice and sacrifice. I have so much respect and gratitude for a man I never knew. It is my plan to run in the Pat Tillman Memorial Run and do the '5K', which is 4.2 miles long (traditionally, for those unawares, a 5K is typically 3.2 miles long). It makes sense to me to go that extra mile. Pat Tillman did.


What do you think of his decision? What would you do in his place? Sound off. I would like to hear your thoughts!
Blessings,
R

The Extraordinary Veterans

Hi y'all,

Remember how I left y'all out in the cold for months and months? I am not doing that again. Did you see my list of things I am going to discuss with you? It is time to dive in!

Friends, I find words inadequate when discussing about the topic of our military and those who serve. I cannot begin to describe the deep-seated thankfulness and genuine gratitude that I have for those who have served, fought, supported soldiers, and lost their lives so I can live in this country and enjoy the freedoms I do.

I have the right to bad-mouth the very people who have fought and gave their life for that right. How extraordinary is that? I would never dream of doing such a thing. I have extremely high respect for these people, but that right is there nonetheless. I have the right to live my life in whatever manner I deem fit, because they go and defend that right time and again. They spend sleepless nights on watch, under fire, in freezing temperature, for long hours, sitting back to back with their comrades, just so that I can sit on my tush in my preferred temperature in my comfortable home and watch The Big Bang Theory and giggle at all the lovely nerd references.

These people are truly heroes. This is my opinion and I proudly own it. I will not tolerate any berating comments so do not post 'em, okay? Thanks. I am not saying you have to agree with me. This is the beauty of what these men and women have fought and are fighting for--our freedom to agree to disagree. Do you get that? I hope so. Even if you do not agree with the all the current or past military actions I ask that you show respect to the people that defend your freedom to disagree. So, instead of railing against the war and the failure of democracy and whatever else you feel the need to be heard on, please, just bite your tongue and thank a veteran and go along your merry way. Oh, and while we are at it, please thank the families that have supported and sacrificed along with our soldiers. They are an invaluable part of this day that are often overlooked. Thank that new wife who said goodbye to her husband a week after they were married. Thank the parents who lost their son or daughter in a roadside bombing. Thank the mother and her four children that spent extended tour after extended tour away from their father who missed birthdays and holidays and school plays.

This is the month where it is on our calendars to take time out of busy lives to stop and be thankful.

Be thankful and be blessed,
R

What I'm learning

Hi y'all,

I have taken yet another hiatus from the blogsphere unintentionally. There have been many things kicking around in my head that I have thought about putting down for you all to read. Then I wonder if you are all still out there!? It is my own fault for not being a better friend to you and I own that. Can you forgive me? I do love you and your support.

Want to know some of the topics that have been on my heart?
-The loss of masculinity and femininity in American culture
-How to lovingly discipline children
-Being the best wife possible to my husband
-Becoming more fully the mother my children need
-Homeschooling
-Cloth diapering (if I had it to do over I would be all over this!)
-My First True Love
-What it means to be a good friend
-How to form meaningful, lasting relationships
-How does one make a wise decision without driving yourself nuts?
-Back-up your pictures like tenfold because you may lose 7000 of them and be devastated (true story, folks)
-What does it look like practically to be a person of integrity?
-Learning to be the role model that I want my children to emanate
-CrossFit
-Paleo
-The Beauty Detox Solution by Kimberly Synder (this book is changing my life!)
-Running a 5K+ (The Pat Tillman run here in AZ is an extra mile because he went the extra mile--look up his story and be truly inspired especially since we are celebrating Veterans' Day!!)
-What being the church looks like today and our responsibility and where we are falling short
-Jared Blake-I love his music and he is such a genuinely nice guy and knows what it is all about
-How much I still have left to learn
-My 30 before 30 list
-Gardening--will we actually be fruitful this time around and how many do-overs will it take?

Here is what I propose: I am going to tackle these topics and you can follow along and sound off. It will not be in any specific order and I will throw other things in there when the fancy strikes. That is the action plan. Are you ready? You should answer yes... :)

Blessings,
R

Neglected blog

Hi y'all,

I have been grossly neglecting my blogging duties to all five of you who regularly read my wonderful, thought-provoking, and inspiring words.

Here is the scoop: I have been busy this summer keep my darling children entertained and seeing as many friends as possible before schools start back up in the next two-three weeks here in lovely AZ.

Also, my little brother got married (whoot whoot!) and my beautiful children were honored to be the flower girl and ring bearer. Side note: my dad said I should post no pictures because of all the adorableness and that everyone would be asking to have them in their wedding.

Another thing: one of my two best girl friends sprung her wedding on my with 11 days notice--11. You read it correctly. So, most everyone I think that is going to get married that is close to me is done now (all in a span of seven months, thanks y'all) and we can chill on that front. I know, next comes the babies. I got at least nine months before that happens and, as long as birth control does not fail these couples, probably more like a year or two.

I regret to inform you that I will probably continue to neglect you for another two to three weeks, but check out Arizona Mom's Network where I have had the privilege of guest blogging! :)

Update me on your lives!!! What has been keeping you busy and what have you been doing to beat the heat?

Blessings,
R

Mental Game

Hi y'all,

I have been doing a new eating plan and I have to tell you it is a mental game, y'all. I am eating smaller portion sizes and cutting out the unnecessary snacking. I have already lost a good deal of weight in this first week.

I swear I have to take it one day at a time because the six-eight weeks seems so very long. It is a constant, hmmmm, I want a snack. The kids' peanut butter crackers smell really good, but it has so much sugar and fat and is not on my approved list currently. Oh, I would like to have a piece of the very yummy zucchini bread I baked, but again, not on the list. Maybe I could just lick my fingers since a little got on there. Oh, no. I should not because at one little taste my willpower may fail. Or it might not, but I do not want to put myself in that spot. I told Mr. Fantastic Husband Man that I sounded like an addict, taking it one day at a time, lol. He pointed out that I am not though, because I would consumed with thoughts of food if I were and, thankfully, I am not. I believe it is a real addiction and I am not too proud to admit I have used food to fill a need and emotionally eaten. The part that we find funny is that I always acknowledge it too. Oh, the kids are super stressing me out today. I am going to emotionally eat this bowl of ice cream and I am okay with that. Honestly, it has helped me identify the cause right now when I feel that urge (I am bored, tired, lonely, stressed, whatever) to eat/snack. Who knew that eating right would be good for the soul as well? Oh, yeah, lots of people... I am just getting on board that boat. :)

I heard somewhere, ages ago, that it takes two weeks to form a habit. Well, week one is over. Re-forming the good eating habits I have let slide over the past couple months is a challenge, but I know it will be worth it. How long do they say it takes to break a bad habit? Is it two months? Anyone know?

So, whatever your daily struggle I sincerely hope your willpower can stay strong. I am hanging in the trenches with you!
Blessings,
R

Back at it!

Hi y'all,

I have decided that summer is here and play date calendar is in full swing, however, I am making the time to take care of me and my workouts. We got our priorities straight. What is the "magic bullet" to lose weight and get healthy? As Michelle and Jason (3-2-1 Penguins) would say, "The power of balanced meals and exercise!!!"

Friends, I have tried and watched others try all sorts of diets, routines, etc. just to be disappointed that all the weight they lost came back (sometimes added more!) as soon as they stopped. I know there are great things out there, but the reality is that it comes down to a lifestyle change. It is a commitment to do life, your whole life from this point forward, differently. Until you are there I believe you will continue to struggle. I am speaking truth today, friends, and I know it is not going to be popular. I want to just say good luck and let me know if I can support you!

So, here is to the power of balanced meals and exercise!

Blessings,
R

Un-Father's Day Like

Hi y'all,

Mr. Fantastic Husband Man is displaying some very un-father's day like behavior. Why do I say that, you ask? Well, I am pretty sick and have been now for days. As many of you know (and for those who do not, you will shortly) mommies do not get sick days. They still have to wake up at 5:30 am because their children are up with the sun. They do not get to go to bed until late because they are finishing the laundry.

Instead of focusing on Mr. Fantastic, he is focused on me. He is selflessly laying down himself and his wants and taking care of me and the children. I have married the greatest man alive, y'all! I just had to share and brag on him since I am super exhausted and just want to lay in bed, but I can type and so I shall.

In case you missed it. Greatest. Man. Alive.
Blessings,
R

Sewing more things

Hi friends and family,

I am so blessed to have people in my life who craft and sew! If I'm frustrated by a crochet pattern I can call and lament this fact to a friend and she will encourage me to keep trying. When I am completely lost on what comes next or what that sewing term means I can text my cousin or call my aunt and they can walk me through it.

Speaking of, my aunt and uncle were on their way home from seeing the Grand Canyon. They made a special trip to see the snow there. Yes, we do get snow here, surprise, surprise. She and I had talked about patterns and she helped me pick out a few over Thanksgiving when she was here and I still have not completed all of them (but thankfully I have completed two and not zero!). I was intimidated by the language in the next one I was attempting and she walked me through some of it and how I could do this short cut or bypass that part of it. Waaaaaay simpler now that I have had someone walk me through parts! :)

Any sewers out there have sites that they turn to? Any advice for a beginner?
Blessings,
R

Home-proofing my babies

Hi y'all,

Wendy over at Choosing Love and I were playing and I told her in passing that I choose to home-proof my babies instead of baby-proofing my home. She said I should do a blog post on it because, apparently, I made a controversial decision here. I am going to share with you what I did and you feel free to glean whatever wisdom you desire. Please remember that even if you disagree to be kind in doing so.

I read an article, ages ago now, about an American mother who had been transplanted to France. The French women visiting her home told her it looked like an insane asylum with all the rubber padding and other safety measures. Obviously, this was partially a cultural difference, but it got me thinking. There were not all these safety items when I was a kid and I am still breathing with life and limbs intact. So, what did I really need to baby proof and what is superfluous?

For My Little Princess we used baby gates for the stairs, outlet covers for the plugs, cabinet locks, and door handle safety things. My mom taught her to do stairs at nine months old and she was very proficient. We quit using the gate at the bottom of the stairs, but I was not comfortable with that toddler run and removing the top gate so we left that until we moved when she was two and a half. I did relatively normal, but not outrageous baby proofing of our home.

Mr. Chaos Little Man was a different story. All we have done is use outlet covers and baby gates on the stairs. And, to be honest, I do not know that we need the outlet covers. The kid has never really been super interested in them, except for the fact that we plug the vacuum cleaner in there and he looooooves the vacuum.

This method of home-proofing my babies is more work than just "baby-proofing" your house. As a stay-at-home mom this was doable for me and is not the right option for every family. You have to be vigilant to teach them not to play with the hanging wires behind the computers, tvs, etc. You have to teach them which cabinet in the kitchen is ok for them to pull out everything in and play with and sit in and which are not ok. You have to teach them not to play in the toilet bowl. It requires time and vigilance. It requires time outs, rewards, and re-direction. It is not for everyone. For instance, unless we invite the children into the kitchen they know not to cross an invisible line in the entry way. It has taken time and much re-enforcement, but it has been so worth it.

Do you want to know the main reason I decided to do it? I realized I will not have control over my child and their environment at all times. We are going to visit family. Great-Grandma is going to have glass breakable within reach of my toddler. A college babysitter is going to have a bunch of wires from their electronics well within my baby's reach. I wanted for my child to stop when I say stop and understand that when I say no touch I meant it. I want the reaction to be instantaneous. I do not have control over every tiny thing that will come their way and I want for them to be able to go into those environments know what is ok to play with and to listen when I say no. I have home-proofed my babies not just for my home, but in all homes using my this approach. Can you see the awesomeness of my logic? :) Admittedly, this has been easier with my first than my second. We are still working on this listening, etc. It is all about consistency and immediate correction so that they learn and learn quickly.

Both my children are still breathing with life and limbs intact. :) And my house does not look like an insane asylum...

Blessings,
R

Big Boy Bed Chronicles

Oh, friends,

As soon as we decided to stop potty training Mr. Chaos Little Man decided we should move straight into the Big Boy Bed Chronicles! He decided getting out of his crib three times in one night/morning was an excellent idea. This was the first (second, and third) time he had done it. Did not take him long to master that art. Mr. Fantastic Husband Man took off the side crib rail and we installed a one of those removable bed rails. The crib my son sleeps in is the one that I slept in as a baby, so pre-convertible crib. Mr. Fantastic is ingenious though.

Not my choice to move straight from delaying potty training into big boy bed training, but there it is, folks. My life has not been on my schedule for quite some time. Apparently I needed reminding of that fact. The transition has been rocky and my facebook friends can attest to that. Suffice to say that I shall describe in more detail the trials, but for now I shall bid you all ado and goodnight!

Blessings,
R

A Weekend of Firsts

Hi y'all,

Over the holiday weekend where we honor those serving and who have served our military and country my family and I visited our family who live down south a stone's throw away from Mexico. One of our best vacations to date. We ate excellent food, kept excellent company, and experienced many firsts in our lives. Us city mice had a great time visiting our country mice family. :)

My Little Princess is four years old and she got to go horse backing, atv riding, and a few other things. When I last asked, horseback riding was the favorite. I see lessons in our future. Deals anyone?

Mr. Chaos Little Man also got to go horseback riding and atv riding for the first times as well. He had the greatest time riding fast down country roads with his daddy. The phrases, "Woohoo" and "This is FUN!" were uttered often. I see fun and trouble down this path. He is a boy and I will encourage as much safety as possible, but I see broken bones in this kid's future. Little Man still seems to have no fear.

I shot many a pistol with excellent instruction from both my cousins. We do keep a few in our home for self defense and I can finally say that I feel comfortable should the need arise (God forbid) that I have to pick it up. If you are looking for an excellent resource on guns, gun safety and children may I recommend The Cornered Cat. I am not looking to debate the issue here, but am open to discourse in another forum so feel free to contact me. I also know which pistol I currently have my eye on for my own self defense, though I plan to shoot a few more before the final decision. Oh, who am I kidding? I fell in love with my cousin's Kimber 1911 officer's pistol. We will be saving a while for this one. :) It is on the list for sures.

My husband calls me Little Annie Oakley. I would not go that far... yet. And that watermelon had it coming--trust me. Getting my CCW (even though technically in this state I do not need it) is on my list of 30 things to do before I turn 30. (I have not finished the list, therefore, that is why you have not seen it yet. Working on it.)

What did you do to celebrate? What are some things on your list (bucket or otherwise)? Experience any firsts lately?

Blessings,
R

I have so much thankfulness and respect for our soldiers and their families for the sacrifices they make that make family vacations like this possible for me and mine.

Potty Training Chronicles Conclusion

Hi y’all,

I promised some conclusions from my potty training experience. After a week without my computer I know y'all must be dying to learn my conclusion--or not, whatever. Want to know what I learned? If not, stop reading here. ;)

First off, make sure you and your child(ren) are healthy before you start this endeavor because it will up the stress factor if not and not set you up for success if anyone is sick.

Second, some stress on the child’s part if going to most likely happen. I did not really consider this as I was reading the method and was a bit surprised by it when it happened, but it made sense. The little guy did not want to get his big boys wet, but he was unsure of what exactly to do and was still figuring out his body’s signals. Normal and completely okay.

I do like this method not advocating pull ups because I did see my little guy learning and making the connections much quicker than my daughter did when we used pull ups with her.

You really do need to entirely set aside these three days to focus, focus, focus on the child and the training. This is not for the faint of heart. It is difficult to do. I swear to you every time I stepped more than 10 feet away from the little guy on day one was the time he would choose to pee. I went to get my daughter a glass of water around the corner and he whizzed as soon as I stepped out of sight for a second. This is ‘training’ and I think of it now like I would think of football training during the season before a really big game. Intensely focused without distraction.

Lastly, it is okay to fail. The author says that any child over 22 months of age can be trained using this method. I do not think all children are the same and fit into a box, nor does every parent’s schedule/personality/preference line up with what the 3 Day Potty Training Method outlines.

Side note: We did the pull ups thing with My Little Princess and she is four and fully potty trained now and I may do this same method I came up with for her with Mr. Chaos, but I have not honestly decided yet. 

I would really like to get most of the potty training out of the way in three days and deal with the occasional accident, but I do not know how realistic that is. I am wanting to give this ‘3 Day Potty Training’ Method one more shot, because I did see progress being made. I also did make mistakes and I think I have learned from them and will do it better this next time around. My Little Princess is going to need to spend the day with a friend, I think. Any takers? :)

I was not paid to “review” this method. It was offered to me free through Parenting AZ and First Things First. I was open to trying it and wanted to let other parents out there know what worked or did not work for us. It is not easy being a parent and navigating the ins and outs of this stuff. Everyone has an opinion or something they swear by because it worked for them. I hope this is a resource in helping you make a decision on how to potty train. I hope you feel encouraged. I hope you found this helpful.

Blessings,

R


P.S. I am also slated to be a guest blogger over at Arizona Mom's Network so check back for my blog on a great splash pad in the valley! :)

Day 3 of Potty Training

Friends,

This is a monumentous day. Mr. Little Man woke up completely dry with no accident overnight!!!! Do you hear that?! It sounds like the heaven’s are opening up and angels are singing. Exaggerate much? I know. Moving on. Most people say when your kid starts waking up overnight dry that you can take it as a sign to start potty training or whatever. Mr. Little Man has not ever woken up dry to my recollection. Again, rejoicing at our house! I think we will bake cookies today. :)

He did have a minor success with Daddy this morning and then let a big ole accident fly. The key today I think will be fully emptying the bladder. He is still learning and we have got the day to do it! (And tomorrow if need be).

The above paragraphs were written in the morning and by the afternoon we had decided that this was placing too much stress on our little guy and have decided to cease and desist with the potty training. Guess what? The follow day I went to the ped to have him checked out and it turns out the kid has a double ear infection. Can we say bad time to potty train?!!? How did I miss this, you ask? I asked myself the same thing. The poor little guy did not tug at his ears at all, he had no fever, and his nose (while runny) was a clear runny (therefore, no need to concern especially in the absence of any other symptoms). Sometimes there are no good signs and we miss it. The doctor thinks he may have allergies and his ears are not draining properly and, boom, ear infection. I know there were air quality alerts, so this is not out of the realm of possibility. I feel terrible having stressed out Mr. Little Man when he was sick, but I did not know and I have to forgive myself and move on. We do this a lot as parents.

My conclusions shall be in the next post.

Blessings on your journey,

R

Day 2 of Potty Training

Hi y’all,

Day 2 of potty training went better and worse than day 1. I was not as emotional and I had Mr. Fantastic Husband Man’s help.

Overall the Mr. Chaos Little Man had two successful trips to the bathroom and only one accident. He had a little accident overnight about 3am, but was dry in the morning. :) I think the poor little guy is stressing out some about going to the bathroom and is just holding it in until his bladder reaches capacity. I was not down there for the accident, but Mr. Fantastic said it was a flood. The kid has major bladder capacity and superman like bladder control. 

Little Man being stressed out by this is the bad part, but the fact that he is aware and holding it is progress and the good part. I’d like to think that this is what Charlie Sheen meant when he talked about “winning” (though if you have seen the video you know it’s not, but let us pretend, shall we?). I feel like this is “winning!”

You only have one more day (well, there will be maintenance and I will probably post about that too--no promises) of solely potty training related posting. Enjoy!!

Blessings,

R

Potty training Day 1 of 3

Hi Y'all,

I am trying out the 3 day potty training method. So far day one has had about three successful trips to the bathroom and about 10 not successful accidents on the floor/bed.

I have to say it has been a bit tough for me having the two kiddos and trying this method. I feel extremely guilty not being able to pay nearly as much attention to my oldest. I have to tell you that I am so proud of her and that she has been a trooper. My Little Princess told me she was going to help me potty train her little brother and teach him 'how to go pee on the potty like a big boy.' I know she has gotten a bit bored, but she has been excellent, y'all. Such a proud mommy right here, right now.

On the other hand, Mr. Chaos has been living up to his name. One of the things is that we pretty much have to stick to indoor activities and he has been getting antsy. We usually go outside every day. He is having a hard time getting energy out and it is coming out a little sideways. I am trying to distract and re-direct, but this kid is stubborn (I have known that since early on). Hey, book author lady! My kid is stubborn and really wants those M&M rewards even when they are up out of sight and he just gets upset and no amount of distraction and re-direction works. This morning he seemed to be 'getting it.' Then things went to hades in a hand basket. We had naughty behavior which needed time out. Of course, the screaming-crying induced peeing in the corner. Now, I am supposed to rush him to the bathroom and sit him on the toilet and say, "Oh, no! You're Big Boys (that is what we call his underoos) are wet. Let's try to keep them dry and tell mommy when you have to go potty, ok?" To which he says, "Ok, Daddy (because everyone in our house is Daddy right now)." And then it was back to time out in another spot because that one had pee all over the place. But then that spot is not as effective because we usually do not do it there and then mommy is next to him cleaning up and then he did not get it all out so he is peeing again and again we rush to the potty and repeat.

Then, THEN, he is starting to be a wild man and I am re-directing and distracting and trying to get him to dance or play chase around the table and he picks up my ipod, very deliberately, and proceeds to throw it down on the tile. Now I am extremely upset by his behavior, and not just because this is not exactly a cheap piece technology, and I tell him in a raised voice that his behavior is unacceptable and to go to time out. Repeat the crying-screaming-peeing scenario above. I have to insert here: I rarely raise my voice and, even rarer still, full on yell at my kids--again I am pretty proud of that and I am not trying to brag just telling you what's up and that he knew mommy was NOT happy.

And the author recommends that I not let my frustration show when he has his 'accidents' and that he is indeed learning. Well, right now I am upset and things are broken and it has been a long emotional day and I am not sure if this is worth it. I have had zero help until about an hour ago. I knew this going in. I knew it would be tough and emotional for me. I did not realize how confusing this new thing would be for Mr. Little Man. He has had his share of emotion and not fully realizing what is going on (while being tired because nap time approached) has been a little stressful for him too.

I know we will be changing a lot of bedding tonight and that I probably will not have a ton of sleep. I feel a sense of foreboding about tomorrow. I am hoping and praying I am wrong. If this works and we make it through then it will be worth it. Right now I am having a hard time seeing the light at the end of this tunnel even though I know it is there.

Blessings on you in your journey,
R

Potty Training, duh, duh, dunnnnnn

Hi Y’all!

I have decided that since we have nothing going on this weekend I am attempting to potty train Mr. Chaos Little Man. He is not yet two and a half, but he has been showing a few signs of being ready. Let me tell you that I have been ready for years. Up until the last eight months or so he cried every single time you changed his diaper. I think it is because he does not like being cold, but as he is too young to use words to tell me this is my best guess. (And is that not what parenting is most of the time--your best guess?)

We will be trying the potty train in three days method (I have Monday set aside as well in case we need the extra time). Prayers, tips, funny antidotes, and comments are all appreciated and will be read in times of stress. :)

Here is my good friend’s prayer she texted me: Dear Lord, please give R patience for the longest 6 months of her life... and high tolerance for incredible amounts of poop and pee everywhere. Help her to see the humor when ‘it’ isn’t pointed into the potty and poop is streaked down the front of the toilet. Dear Lord, please help my dear friend ‘cuz she is potty training a boy!!!!!

Blessings,

R

And begin again

Hi y'all,

I posted that day 3 was quite a struggle to get to on my meal plan this time around. That night I got a mild case of food poisoning and was enduring stomach cramps when my wonderful husband told me there are no medals or prizes for enduring food poisoning just because you do not want to start over. That, my friends, was when I grabbed crackers and gatorade. I decided I would start over again today. Hey, I wanted some ice cream and a cupcake for Mother's Day. I got 'em too. :)

Well, today, day one, has been a struggle and I expect the following days will be as well. Is my health worth it? Yes. Do I want to do this? Yes and no. Does it help to have friends I can lament to? Absolutely! Do I keep reminding myself that it is only 2 weeks? Yes. Will I give in and start again? I hope not, but I definitely did not plan to last week. Sometimes things are out of your control. The important part is that you get back and try again. Read that again, because that is my main point. Did you get it? Want to explain it to me? I have to remind myself of it often in life.

Peace and blessings, friends,
R

Day 3

Hi y'all,

I decided that since my little brother is getting married one friday in July and my best friend is getting married the very next day!!! that I should probably kick my butt back into workout and eat right gear. To this end I have been getting back into the gym (even if it has only been one day a week!) and started over with my meal plan three days ago. This is the blog post where I set out my first two weeks for those of you who wanted to follow along. I am back there now.

I remember kicking butt the first three or four days when I started this last year, but this year has been a different story. Day one was a struggle and it does not seem to have let up. Let me break it down for you.

Day one--the children keep begging for fruit snacks all. day. long. The smell of said snacks triggers my want for sugar!!! This makes me grumbly and I want to have a fruit snack too and begin again the next day. I resist.

Day two--MOPS. These wonderful women bring in all sorts of food for us to munch while we conversate (apparently this is not a word according to my dictionary...) and listen to speakers or do crafts. The "food" has also been aptly described as a "carb fest." If you read that meal plan above you know that carbs are super limited these first two weeks. I really love donuts and only eat them at MOPS. Alas, I passed. However, then my good friend, K, invited the children and I to McD's for some nugs and playland time. The smell of those french fries almost. killed. me. I stayed strong.

Day three--My Little Princess has her Mother's Day celebration at preschool and there is brunch with little blueberry muffins (yum!) and fruit (double yum!) and orange juice. Again, was seriously tempted to just start over.

The only thing that has kept me on track so far is the actually the fact that these past few days have been such a struggle and I really do not want to add to this current misery. It is two weeks, dadgumit! Can all of you wait a month so that I can have my one "cheat" meal a week and I can choose accordingly? Oh, and can you inform me of this at least a week in advance so I can choose my favorite? Thanks, friends!!

Blessings,
R

P.S. Tomorrow is National Mom's Nite Out and two of my good friends Wendy at Choosing Love and Morgan at BecomingHomegrown are hosting an event at Buffalo Wild Wings that night. We can safely say that this was NOT my ideal week to start back with this meal plan!

Summertime Blues?

Hi y'all!

Today at MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) I read an article lamenting and applauding the fact that it shall soon be bathing suit weather here once again in the great state of Arizona!

When it is 115 degrees F outside you cannot even hope to survive unless you swim or play at a splash pad--often! I liken it to be snowed in for four-six months in Minnesota with an active four year old and a toddler. For those of you who have not experienced this wonder esta no muy bueno. You go a bit (a lot!) stir crazy with the same walls, same toys, same mall walks, same McDonald's play area after so long. So, the only way to survive this heat is to get out in your bathing suit and have fun!

For those who are not "little" women I would imagine (as I am only one woman and can only guess how we feel as a whole) the words "bathing suit season" brings feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. I know I have to beat those mental lies into submission and I would venture a guess that I am not alone.

The article I read made some good points that I also found amusing. So, be ready to "throw in the towel" (into that cute beach bag!) and put on your suit because you have no excuse!

At the pool there will be (at least one!) of the following people. One, there will be that one person who never learned that white swimsuits are purely for tanning and contrasting that beautiful tan; NOT swimming. I do not need to know you that well, please. Two, there will be that gal who is in denial and swears she can fit into that medium, but will be rocking a large muffin top. Three, you have all seen that lady who is way too old to be shopping in the juniors section, however still insists on sporting one of those tiny-weeny bikinis! Four, hairy, beer belly--'nough said. Five, guys whose suits just do not fit correctly and you think they would be perfect for the plumbing profession. And, lastly, that person who thought tatooing their entire body was a great idea, an expression of themselves and art (bonus points if they are a wrinkly, older person).

Side note: It is ok to stare as long as when they catch you doing so you ask insightful questions. Where did you get that mermaid done? Local artist? What does that Chinese symbol stand for? Or make a complimentary remark. I really like how that portrait of your daughter looks so life-like. If you must be sarcastic you should probably keep those in your head. We are all thinking the same thing--You may regret all these at 75--but we don't need to express it out loud.

I swear, unless you are one of these people (and now you have no excuse, I'm calling you out!) no one will be paying attention to those extra baby pounds or winter insulation. They will all be trying to avert their eyes and avoid having a second look at the aforementioned offenders. ;)

Blessings,
R

Butterfly garden

Hi friends and family!

The kids and I got to experience something very cool. We were able to release brand new butterflies that had never flown before into the Butterfly Garden in the Phx Botanical Gardens. They ship the butterflies at 50 degrees because they do not use their wings until it is at least 60 degrees because that is the temperature that flowers open at (I learned something new that day too!). We ripped open the envelopes and ours flew right out, no holding them for a minute for their wings to warm up. They hopped onto the flowers and ate and then fluttered around. We probably released a dozen. How fortunate and blessed are we?! How many people get to experience that in their lifetimes? The thought never crossed my mind. The woman there said that they get butterflies about once a week and release them whenever they end up getting them. There is no set timeline or day. Pretty neat, right?! Ok, I think I may have loved it more than the kiddos, but I think My Little Princess enjoyed it a ton too. She kept asking if she could release more. Mr. Chaos shied away at first flight, but then pointed and yelled, "WHAT'S DAT?!?!" :) I did bring the camera and am so very glad I did!!!!

God's creation is so awesome!
Blessings,
R

How do your flowers grow?

With cockleshells and silver bells and pretty maids all in a row!

One of my very favorite movies is The Secret Garden. I just love how Mary discovers the garden and it becomes her secret, safe place and she heals the garden, herself, and her family there.

I thought I had killed my hibiscus tree, but it is leafing our and shows a ton of new growth.

The vinca my daughter and I grew from seeds is in full bloom. We got maybe a handful of flowers last year, but we have a ton this year! Yay!

I also have a bunch of rosebuds on my three rosebushes. Roses are my favorite flowers so this makes me incredibly happy. I promised pictures in my last garden post. Enjoy!

Blessings, R

An Easter Post

Hello all!

This Easter many people focus on the death of Christ on the cross. They talk about why it was necessary. They talk about the state of the human condition. They talk about Christ's sacrifice. They contrast His perfect life with our imperfect ones. They describe the extraordinary gift of Christ taking our place and enduring the wrath of a holy God for our sins. This is indeed incredible.

The thing, however, that stands our to me on Easter is the spectacular promise expressed in Christ's resurrection. My Lord lives. His grave, unlike other prophets and great teachers, is empty. He completely conquered death. His victory, and thus ours, is total. We will live together in paradise. This is His promise and He made it possible, not just through His death, but His resurrection.

His death is the gift--His resurrection is the promise!

Blessings,
R

Homemade laundry detergent

Hi all,


I have been looking for ways to cut costs here and there and one way I thought I might do that was to make my own laundry detergent! After talking with a few friends who make a lot of their own laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, etc. I decided it was worth the try. If I hated it then I could pass along the stuff I do not use to them. Let me first say that I love my Melaleuca laundry detergent, but it is spendy when I have to use extra because Mr. Fantastic Husband Man has a job that gets his clothes double dirty. So, my friend Morgan over at Becoming Homegrown said her recipe was posted on her blog. I used it and I have to say I am liking the results so far! I am on my second batch of the stuff and we shall see if I continue to love it. That being said a few of my MN peeps asked if it worked if I could share it. This is posted over at Morgan's blog, but I am stealing it to post here as well.


Oh, and I did the math, and if I did it correctly with all my conversion, etc., this is ridiculously cheap!!! Like seven cents a load, y'all!! So, use a little extra if you like. On Morgan's blog there are pictures as well. I was not that nice to think of taking pictures of the process for you. You can sift through over there if you want pictures. :) I also added a splash of lavender essential oil to have the clothes smelling lavender-y. It was strong in the soap, but by the time I had dried the clothes I could just faintly smell it. From Morgan:

Supplies Needed:

1 bar Ivory soap, grated

1/2 Cup Washing Soda (Arm and Hammer, but not baking soda)

(I found the washing soda at Fry's)

1/2 Cup Borax

2 Gallon Bucket

1 Quart Hot Water

Hot Water

Directions:

Mix grated soap in a saucepan with 3 pints of water, and heat on low until dissolved. Stir in Washing Soda and Borax. (This is where I added the lavender) Stir until thickened, and remove from heat. Add 1 Quart Hot Water to 2 Gallon Bucket. Add soap mixture, and mix well. Fill bucket with hot water, and mix well. Set aside for 24 hours, or until mixture thickens. Stir occasionally. Store it in milk jugs or empty laundry soap containers, give it a good shake then pour. 

Use 1/2 cup of mixture per load. Use the same amount in your front load washers as well. 

It will be chunky.

I had to convert the quarts and everything to cups for easier measurement for myself. 

Let me know if you try this!

Blessings,

R

I have this friend...

Hey all,

Want to know some stuff that inspires and motivates me? My children are a big one. After my workout this morning, which I really wanted to skip, they both ran over saying "Mama!!" and both gave me two of the biggest hugs ever! That was the best feeling in the world, y'all. After I got out of the shower my daughter told me I looked so beautiful. Who couldn't use this kind of encouragement and affirmation?! I must be doing something right.

Also, I was reading recently that we as women should be doing our part to look nice for our husbands. This may seem sexist to some, but I believe her intent was to say encourage us to do our part in the relationship so that we feel good about ourselves and that confidence will come through and that is very attractive. Plus, who doesn't want to have the best marriage possible? Part of this is to continue to be attractive to one another. So, do your part and you will feel good about you! Bonus!

Now, I just wanted to take the time to praise a friend of mine. She has been working out practically every day for over a month now and I am so proud of her. I have not been working out nearly as often and I am envious and inspired by her all at the same time. I related these feelings to her and she said that she did not consider herself inspiring, but I do. Hear that, girlie?! I DO! I find your commitment to your health, your workouts, your kids, your husband, and yourself inspiring. I am writing it on my blog. I am letting the world know that I find you inspiring. Keep up the excellent work, my friend. We will be swapping clothes in no time! ;)

Blessings,
R

'Tis Spring in the Valley!

Hello all!

It is still springtime in the Valley here, though we are perilously close to summer, and my roses are blooming!!! Sadly, I did not take any pictures of them, but I promise I will next time one blooms. I am hoping this is soon.

Do you remember when I mentioned that if you want another child maybe you should consider planting a garden and still be able to sleep through the night? Well, I have to say that I, in the past, killed every plant I ever owned. My mom has a notoriously brown thumb as well though she claims she used to have some beautiful plants back in the day (which I believe, but she was rather busy raising me to care much about plants after I came along). This is no longer the case, friends!!! My rose bushes are all green and leafy and I have already enjoyed six, (SIX!!), roses from one bush. Also, my hibiscus has come back as well. It lost all its leaves and I thought I may have kill it, but not the case! I am super thrilled by this. In case you were unaware of that fact after reading my elation to this point you have been so informed.

I hope you all are having a beautiful spring and looking forward to your summer. I am looking forward to swimming--a lot!

Blessings,
R

Oh, more craftiness, you say!

Greetings and salutations!

It is time for more craftiness from my ever expanding and impressive talents! I am so humble. All of my friends can confirm this. ;)

This project took me two weeks and was not without its frustrations. This is the first one I have attempted (and kicked tail at I must add). It was a gift for my mom. She loves this stuff! Oh, I suppose it would help to show you a picture of what I am referring to, huh?

Please feel free to gush about the intricacies and beauty of this doily. :) Blessings, R

Cleaned out the pantry

Hi friends and family!

I decided today would be a good day to take everything out of the pantry and clean it out and do some organizing as I put it all back. I did not think it would take as long as it did... Four hours later she looks terrific! And I can find everything. Wanna see? I had the presence of mind to take pictures.

Floor cleared

This is what I was working with going into this.

All cleared out!!!

The pantry is deceptively large.

She's so purdy now that she's organized!!!

And the floor is clear once again.

Blessings on your journey (is it through your pantry now? Have I inspired you?),

R :)

Sickness bites again

Hi friends,

You remember how I said I had a plan and I was going back to the gym at least three times a week in this post? Well, the sickness bug has bitten me yet again and I woke up three days ago with major stuffy head and all the unpleasantness that goes with it.

A friend posted this video (be warned that it isn't the prettiest of sights, though she has a very pretty face!) of her first time using a neti pot and it gave me the courage to try the one that I had purchased a month ago. This thing is amazing for clearing out the crude and being able to breathe again! If you deal with sinus issues I recommend looking into it.

Have an excellent and blessed day today on your journey!
R

P.S. I did get her permission to post this here. She is a stitch and I love this girl!

Word Girl is fighting the bad guys

Hi friends!!

One of my other projects for my Little Princess! She really loves Word Girl on PBS Kids. So, I made her a Word Girl cape. Though WG's cape is actually yellow, my baby girl loves red which is the other color we see WG wearing.

I see the resemblance, don't you?

Blessings,
R

I was having fun!

Hi friends!

So, I was having fun with my borrowed sewing machine. I made some burp cloths for a gal at my Mothers of Pre-Schoolers (MOPS) table who is having a little lady in less than a month!

I had so much fun making them that I decided to continue and make a bunch more. I will be posting one listing a day on Etsy until they are all posted. If you know someone that is having a baby these are delightful gifts!

Someone gave me a set when My Little Princess was born, *sniff sniff*, four years ago and we LOVED them!! Used them all the time. Looked for them first when I needed one. Did laundry just so I would have a clean one. Yes, love. I modeled the ones I made after these ones. You can visit my listing(s) on my Etsy shop for the details. There is a button on the right side of your screen. See? --->

Additionally, I have stocked up on hanging hand towels that are finished and will be listing those as well. So stay tuned!!!

Oh, you want to see the creativity? Surely!

Letter from 14 year old me

Hi friends!

So, my mom had been holding a letter for me that I wrote to myself 11 years ago. Yes, you read that correctly. It said "Open at 25." Well, I have reached that milestone and now have opened the letter. I think I shall share (most of) it with you. And remember, I was only a smart-aleck 14 year old. :)

(1/4/99) Dear 25-year-old Me,
     You should get a kick out of this letter. I know you may have changed a lot by now, but I think in some ways you'll always be the same.
     Right now the new millennium has just turned. You Dad and (now former step-mother) have just gotten engaged on New Year's Eve. It was about time--they'd been together for eight years! Goodness sakes! Now I will have two new step bros. G is annoyingly talkative and G is a show-off, (etc.).
     Right now, I want to be an interviewer/journalist, or an inspirational speaker (ie Chuck Peterson). I would like to be horseback riding and would love to work on a ranch. Those are my dream, I hope they come true! So what are you doing about it? Or have you dreams changed? (Yes, they have!)
     Soon I'll be moving again. (etc.)
     I have the greatest friends in the world! CJ, AN, AM, CR, JB, and CK (my best guy friend) and, of course, Jesus!
     Don't ever stop loving Jesus. No matter what happens, God is in control.
     I love music. It's been a big part of my life, I think it always will be. (Side note: Met my hubby at a music festival, cha-ching!) I love basketball and downhill skiing. Are you married? If not, it is really okay.
     Still live by 1 Timothy 4:12, "Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but instead set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity."


Keep a good self-confidence,
14 year old Me


Do you love this? I do! I definitely was cut out to be a motivational speaker. :) However, my dreams have definitely changed and evolved. I think I am going to write another letter to myself to open at 35, and perhaps a couple more too for other milestone ages and just add to them so by the time I'm 65 I have like 4 letters to read. What interesting perspective progression that will be and how it will change! 


Maybe you would consider doing this too? Share with me please!


Blessings,
R

Good evening, viewers!

Hello one and all,

I hope all is well with you and yours. :) Last night I was inspired to make more baby burp clothes out of the fabric I have laying around here. I now have six blue burp clothes completed and waiting for a baby boy to be born. Who's on that? And for all of you that just had, YOU, pop into your head--no.

My children are the most spectacular kids on the planet, in my mind, and I know my capacity to love another would grow if there was another. However, I just don't think that my sanity could take it. I love to dote on my children and spend time on one on with them and it's a juggling act with two. The Lord has certainly gifted those of you who have more than one or two.

Let's not even discuss the baby weight issue. At least I've lost, and maintained the loss!, of Mr. Chaos Little Man's pregnancy.

I set of new goal of losing fifteen pounds by the end of the MOPS year (May). I had a difficult time breaking and staying under the 180 mark this last year. So, we are currently at 185 and ready for the 170 mark. And then the 160 mark by July. I have long-term goals people!!! I have a plan and I am thinking I should probably write down an outline of my plan to share with you and keep me accountable once again.

How are you doing on your journey? Because everyone is on a journey, even if you are standing still.
Blessings,
R

Not perfect

I am not a perfect mommy,
but I am perfect for my children.

My children are not perfect,
but they are perfect for me.

My husband is not a perfect person,
but he is perfect for me.

We were given as God's gifts to each other,
and He is perfect.
He knows our needs perfectly.

R

Working out the kinks

Hi friends!

After a month off I have made another return to the gym! Does it seem to you too that I make a lot of returns? Ok, just wanted to make sure I was not entirely crazy. The sickness merry-go-round in our house seems to be over (Please, God, let it be over!!!) and now my goal is to get back to the gym consistently three-four times a week like I had been doing. Two down for the week!

I have been reading an extremely good book lately. In it the author is talking about your relationship with your husband. One of the points she made was what are you doing to make yourself attractive to your husband? Um, isn't that kind of personal, lady? The reality is that half of all marriages in this country end in divorce and, depending on the source, it is 70% of marriages in Maricopa County end in divorce. Yikes! So, that is a fair question. Remember when you used to make a huge effort to look like a knock-out for a date? Do you remember going on dates?! Some of you are thinking, yes, before kids and jobs took over our lives. I get it--I really do. My husband's hours change daily depending on the economy and that is incredibly hard on family life, but I digress.

This got me thinking. What have I been doing to make myself attractive to my husband? Well, my husband thinks I am the most beautiful woman in the world and has always (yes, I said always) made me feel that way when he looks at me. I am truly blessed. However, when I feel good about myself and how I look it does a lot for me in every aspect of my life, not just the personal part (vague enough there, parents?).

One other point the author made was that not taking care of yourself is selfish. Um, what? Go with me. If you haven't bathed in a week you are not as likely to want to go outside your house and take your children to the park or on a date with the hubs. Tell me I'm wrong. You have less energy to give of yourself generously in all your relationships when you do not work out. I am on that crazy train that likes to work out because of the energy boost and good endorphins you get.

So, not taking care of myself and my health is detrimental to my relationships and it is selfish. That is not the person I want to be. Chalk up another reason to work out and eat right!

Love and blessings on your journey today!
R

Therapeutic projects

Hi all,

One of the things I keep in my project closet is hand towels that need to have tops crocheted on them so that they can hang from the refrigerator, the stove, or a drawer handle. I have a hard time sitting still to watch a movie or on a car ride. I know this is hard to believe with all my complaining about not being able to work out lately (insert sarcastic tone here). I have done so many of these at this point that it is very easy for me to do and I don't really have to think about it anymore. I really enjoy making them and giving them as gifts, as anyone who has gotten married in the last year and gotten a gift from me can attest to. :) They all tell me they love them. They could all be lying to make me feel good. They are my friends and family after all and are obligated to love them...

Want to see some of the work I have been going on about? Well, good! I am going to pretend you are all very interested. ;)

A wonderful friend gave me an excellent idea for my future gifts. She suggested I collect hand towels for the different holidays and then give them as a gift set. So, when people get married they have a decoration to put out during the different holidays (think Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, Valentine's, St. Patrick's Day, 4th of July, etc.). I am going to try to get a set of 12 so they have one for each month. It might be a "winter" or "summer" theme instead of a specific holiday (sorry, they do not make hand towels for President's Day as far as I am aware). Awesome idea, right?! So, I will be collecting them over this next year and hopefully have them for the next year. I am thinking housewarming gift too, though, I do not think I could give them as a baby shower gifts. Guess I will have to come up with something else there...

Blessings,
R