My Husband Rocks!

Fred and I met at work. We actually shared an office space. We worked different hours so it worked. Fred began leaving me little post-its " on our desk. So then I would leave one for him to find when he came to work. "have a nice day" "sorry for the mess" "you're doing a great job" etc...
As our friendship grew into more, our little sticky notes on the computer screen turned into "can't wait to see you later" ...."I love you!"...mushy stuff.
I loved that about Fred. Seeing that note, those special words, made my day. I always looked forward to them.
Now after 6 yrs a marriage, he is still leaving me notes :) Not as often. Usually not on my desk.
But still thoughtful, kind words that brighten up my day.
I found one taped to the bathroom mirror the other night, when I went up for bed. He was already asleep. But he wanted to make sure that I knew he had noticed the extra care I had been putting in keeping our home organized.
He told me how much he admires me and appreciates me, as a wife and a mom. How I excel in both areas. And then he said "thank you".

When I struggle with keeping all the balls I'm juggling up in the air...when I feel I am lacking and failing, ...when the house is cluttered & the kids are screaming, and he is 30 minutes away at work and I can't call in re-enforcements...I see one of his notes.

And I remember.

Why I do this. Why I love this. What a blessing my life is.
I wouldn't trade places with me for the world.

What's on my nightstand --

I usually have several books on my nightstand. And on my desk, and maybe 1 or 2 downstairs floating around. I used to carry one in my purse ( pre-kid days) to read while in line somewhere, doctor's waiting room, on lunch-break, etc...

I don't have the time to spend reading as much as I used to, but I still manage to read several books a month, which is more than I can say for most of my friends! It's all about priorities :)

Current reads are:

Novels:

- "The Baby Chronicles" by Judy Baer --this is a steeple hill cafe book. Chic-lit, so its full of humor, light, and easy to read, but still contains everyday spiritual wisdom. It is written as the diary of Whitney Blake, as she embarks on the baby journey. "Recording every bump and blessing -- and a few unexpected detours and discoveries--on the road to motherhood."

This book is actually #2 in the series. First one is "The Whitney Chronicles" diary of spinsterhood and falling in love.

- "The Jewel of Gresham Green" by Lawana Blackwell -- set in the late 1800's, english novel. Ms Blackwell wrote the "Gresham Chronicles" a series of three, several years ago. I loved them so much, and was very excited to see a continuing of the story.

Non-fiction:

- "Taking Care of the Me in Mommy" by Lisa Whelchel -- how many remember Lisa from the Facts of Life?? I knew she was a christian/author but had never had the chance to read any of her books before now. My bosom buddy, Debbie, actually loaned me this book; when I discovered it on her bookshelf while on my trip to IL.

"Realistic tips for becoming a better mom - spirit, body, & soul. ...You'll feel refreshed, energized, and ready to pour the true you into the ones you love!"

What mom doesn't want & need that??

School related:

- Rod & Staff's "Bible Nurture & Reader" Series -- this is the curriculum I chose for my daughter's phonics & reading program. I am slightly intimidated by teaching phonics. This teacher's guide has been very helpful and reassuring.

So that's my nightstand. How about yours?

Book-it

If you are a homeschooler, you can sign your children (in grades K-6) up for some free pizzas at Pizza Hut by enrolling in their Book-It program. It takes just minutes to do, and you receive enough certificates for each month of the school year for each child. It gives children something to look forward to and it is a nice "free" incentive!

http://www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/homeschool.asp

I signed my little kindergarten-er up today. Blows my mind that she is even old enough.
It seems like it was just yesterday that I was participating in book-it! And going to get my own little personal pizza :)
Now here I am, with kids of my own....kids that love to read/or be read to. Kids that LOVE pizza!

Where has the time gone?
Do you feel that way...like you shouldn't be old enough to be a mom with your own kids and responsibilities?

I have been blessed!

I was gone all day friday, so didn't get to do my "husband rocks" post. However, since today is our wedding anniversary, I think its ok and probably appropriate to do it today instead. Let's just pretend I was post-poning it on purpose :)

It was 6 years today that we got married. Outside on a warm August day. I was 25 yrs old and I felt like I had waited my entire lifetime to find "the right one".

You see, I believed in fairy tales.

Even after broken hearts and unhappy relationships...I knew someday my prayers would be answered. I am so grateful today, that I never settled. Never gave up. God honored my prayers and gave me the desires of my heart.

Now, looking back, I can hardly remember life before Fred. Its only been six years, but it feels like my entire life. What a journey it has been. We've been through a lot in these short 6 years. But our love has stood strong. Our faith has never wavered. We make a good team, him and I.
I look forward to the rest of forever with my dear, sweet, man.

*Our wedding day*

I love the touch of his hand on my cheek.

I love that he trusts me. I love that he is kind.

I love that he loves Jesus more than he loves me.

I love that he is honest, and says what's on his mind.

I love that he is silly. I love that he is wise.

I love the way he is with our children.

I love how the world looks, when seen through his eyes.

I love that he makes feel cherished and safe.

I love you, dear husband. You truly rock my world!

*Six years later...how different our life is now!....still very much in love*

Whew!

We have been busy this week with our church's new building dedication services. It started Sun and finished tonight. 5 services in the last 4 days. I feel like I am on spiritual over-load...(is that possible?) Each service was simply amazing. Different speakers, different methods, same annointed, kingdom messages. My husband and I were talking earlier today how we recieved confirmations, conviction, an infusing of supernatural strength, and a myriad of other things!
We have been so blessed with our church. We "found" it right after moving here 5 yrs ago.
It is a church that focuses on family. And on raising the standard -- in our lives, our familes, and our region. The church has seen tremendous growth these past few yrs...going from a couple hundred to over 500. Now, after much anticipation, we are in our brand-new, state-of-the-art building. And it was a packed house every night.
The kids love it and have been as excited about it as we are. Ashleigh loves the new kids sanctuary and classrooms. Logan says "Yeah! New church!" when we pull into the parking lot each time.
I have loved soaking these last few nights. But physically, I'm tired and ready to get back to scheduled bedtimes and meal, etc....My house is ready for it to be over too. Whew, what alot of catch-up cleaning we have to do.

This modern age...

How do we parent in this modern age that we live in.

Technology. How advanced do our children need to be? (who comes up with the guidelines for being "advanced" anyway?)

Yesterday, my almost-five yr old daughter asked me "Mommy, when I'm 14,...."
(Right here is where my heart stopped. My insides clenched up. What had she overheard somewhere...where was this conversation going.....)

"Mommy, when I'm 14, can I have an ipod? I'm really going to need one."

Monday's Simple Woman's Daybook - 03

For today --

Outside My Window...the lawn is freshly mowed. Neighbor kids are enjoying their last day on their bikes, as public schools start tomorrow around here. We won't be starting til Sept, after Labor day.

I am thinking...about our church's new building dedication service last night. Annointed word..awsome service!

I am thankful for...our church's huge new building. The opportunity to be a part of raising the standard in our region. The privilage to teach the preschool class about Jesus.

From the kitchen...a bag of fat free pretzels & iced tea

I am wearing... dark khaki capris and a bright coral colored top. Barefoot, of course.

I am creating...school plans, still. Coming up with a list of ideas to keep the 2 yr old busy while teaching K to the 5 yr old.

I am going...to call my parents, we live 5 hours away, and I haven't got to talk to them at all yet this week.

I am reading...emails, Kids Crafts to Make in the Fall, and Family Circle Magazine. Just finished reading "Full Circle" by Davis Bunn. Hoping to start Lawana Blackwell's "The Jewel of Gresham Green".

I am hoping...Logan takes a long nap today. I can get through all these emails. I lose a few more pounds this week.

I am hearing...the hum of my computer.

Around the house...we're doing laundry, sorting children's bookshelf,

One of my favorite things... the smell of books :)

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: church dedication services again tonight, tues night, and wed night. MOPS creative activities planning meeting. Mine and dear man's 6th wedding anniversary!

Here is picture thought I am sharing... 3 sisters at lunch --

My Husband Rocks -- friday

I recently found this new blogroll "My Husband Rocks!" where on fridays, ladies post/brag on why they love their husband so much. I totally love this. Marriage is truly a beautiful & sacred thing. In this day & age, the beauty & value of marriage has been desecrated. I know many young women -- in their early 20's who are already divorced and now bitter against love, commitment, and men in general. This is so sad. Marriage does takes work. It's not easy, nor is it always fun. But worth every minute.

There is a little company started by a husband & wife called -- from*me tees --http://www.frommetees.com/ Their mission statement: "To enhance marriage relationships, communicate a positive image of marriage, and encourage/support the sanctity of the marriage covenant between a man and a woman in a fun and stylish way."

"One of the great and wonderful mysteries of life is that loving each other in action--what we do and say--produces romance. Everything in our culture today teaches the opposite, that romance turns into love, but nothing could be further from the truth. Love is a choice and we decide how we're going to treat each other in the good and in the not-so-good times. What a hope-giving reality that a strong relationship can be built, simply by changing how we interact with our spouse. Marriage was created to be a blessing and a little kindness and respect goes a long way. Accept the fact that your spouse isn't perfect and then start taking notice of all the good things they bring to the table! Pretty soon you can train your mind to be grateful for who they are as opposed to feeling disappointed about who they are not. When you allow yourself to believe that your spouse rocks, you will free yourself from the downward spiral of self-pity, disappointment, and even despair. The key is to change yourself! And you'll be surprised at the positive affect it has on the one you choose to love...and you!"
"No husband is perfect and it doesn’t really matter. What matters is how I set myself up to think about him. If I focus on his failures, his annoyances, or ways in which I’ve felt hurt by him, then I will interact with him as a hurt and frustrated and disappointed wife. That makes for miserable living for me and my husband and those around us. But if I focus on his strengths, his potential, and the ways in which I feel blessed by him, then I will interact with him as a forgiving, blessed, and contented wife. And there’s no greater need a man has than to feel respected by his wife. If he feels like all he does is hurt, disappoint, and frustrate, then the same atmosphere and the same actions will be perpetuated. But if he feels that his wife can be happy and responsive regardless of his shortcomings, he feels respected and empowered. Then a positive atmosphere is perpetuated and actions, once destructive, can improve in an environment that is rich for cultivation and growth into deepened respect and intimacy." (from the From*me Tees Mission Reflection )

Let's begin a movement -- putting marriage in a positive light. Fighting to restore marriage as a sacred union, between a man & woman. I challenge you to start in your own home. With your own marriage. Encourage your husband. Go out of your way to show him respect and make him feel loved.

My husband is an amazingly patient man. He is my hero.
As a MOP, (mother of preschoolers) some days...well, ok..MOST days are pure insanity. Chasing after an almost 2 yr old and keeping ahead of an almost 5 yr old, while trying to keep some semblance of order to our mess; I end up feeling so overwhelmed and frazzled. And then there are the days where my parenting skills are really tested. You know what I'm talking about -- you've tried every trick in the Dare to Discipline book and still don't seem to be making any head-way. When one of these particularly challenging days comes along...I struggle with wanting/not wanting to call my husband, because here he is working all day to provide for us and so I can stay home. He has his own schedules and lists and stresses to get through at work. So when he calls, what do I do? Vent! and cry and probably whine a little bit. Now, he doesn't like hearing we're having issues. But beyond that, he comes up with ideas for solutions. He's good at that. I love that he knows the power of his words and he speaks peace, and order, and joy into whatever the situation is. Thereby calming me down when I need it most. He is able to calm me down with sweet, encouraging words that let me know that I'm a good mom, and a good wife, and not to give up.
Thank you, dear man. You rock!

Simple Things

I Have Found Such Joy

I have found such joy in simple things;
A plain, clean room, a nut-brown loaf of bread,
A cup of milk, a kettle as it sings,
The shelter of a roof above my head,
And in a leaf-laced square along the floor,
Where yellow sunlight glimmers through the door.

I have found such joy in things that fill
My quiet days: a curtain's blowing grace,
A potted plant upon my window sill,
A rose, fresh-cut and placed within a vase;
A table cleared, a lamp beside a chair,
And books I long have loved beside me there.

Oh, I have found such joys I wish I might

Tell every woman who goes seeking far
For some elusive, feverish delight,
That very close to home the great joys are:
The elemental things- old as the race,
Yet never, through the ages, commonplace.

~ Grace Noll Crowell

The Simple Woman's Daybook - 02

For today --

Outside My Window...the summer sun is shining bright. There aren't any kids out this afternoon. Its too hot.

I am thinking...about all the things I somehow managed to get accomplished today.

I am thankful for...computers & email. They make organization so much easier.

From the kitchen...I have chicken thawing for a grilled chicken salad. My husband and I are doing Michael Thurmon's 6 Week Body Makeover. Trying to eat healthier, and lose weight. 10 pounds for me so far.

I am wearing... jean shorts, turquose shirt, barefoot, ....and my new short hair :)

I am creating...my brain. Otherwise known as a Household Handbook. Holds all my to-do lists, cleaning & organizing lists, calendars, ect....

I am going...to try making a pillowcase dress for my daughter. I have seen sveral cute patterns for it and while garage-saling last week came across an entire stack of vintage pillowcases.

I am reading..."Twice Loved" by Lori Copeland

I am hoping... to make it to the city this week...to the best used-christian bookstore ever, to shop for some homeschool books for Ashleigh's kindergarten.

I am hearing...my children in a singing competition with each other. Louder & louder! And a neighbor is mowing his tall brown grass.

Around the house...things could be better!

One of my favorite things... is taking long walks at dusk.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: babysitting 3 little girls tomorrow, having lunch with both my sisters on wednesday, our church's "30-somethings" home-group bbq on saturday.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

"No matter how sophisticated you may be, a large granite mountain cannot be denied—it speaks in silence to the very core of your being." -Ansel Adams

(If you would like to join this meme, visit: http://thesimplewoman.blogspot.com/ )

My Fairytale

Ashleigh's artwork - mommy is the princess. daddy is the handsome prince charming. we are holding hands, because he has just given me a flower. there is also an angel watching over us.

Baby Doll Bathtime

Today's fun activity was giving baths to their babydolls --outside. Something so simple, yet was exciting and fun for them. Kept them busy for quite awhile. Today was perfect for it too...hi 70's, a very nice change.






And of course, it was bound to happen......

Famous! ??

My friends are saying I'm famous.

I must admit I did feel not only honored but awe-struck. I even cried just a little.
My husband called while I was in IL...to say that our friend, Tracey, who is also a best-selling christian author, had signed her latest book for me and gave it to him at church.
She always does this, but its still really cool to me. My husband read her short inscription to me and laughed because she had autographed it with a blue pencil.
Once back home, I was unpacking and saw the new book on my desk. Even though he had already read it to me, I opened it up to see it. There it was...in blue pencil :).... but then I saw IT!

Just above her signature, was printed in the book "Dedicated to Julie Young--a forever friend"
I cried. Somehow my husband had missed the fact that she had dedicated the book to ME!

So if you ever get a chance to read "That's (not exactly) Amore" book three in the Drama Queen Series, you'll see my name :)


Ok....so maybe I'm not famous. But it was such a special thing. Thank you Tracey Bateman, for being my unconditional friend. And for sharing your writing knowledge with me. Not only that, thank you, for giving me a chance to see my name...in print.

Living History

I recently had some one ask if I loved "living history". As I begin to give it some thought, I realised how much I do! I had just never labeled it as such.

While on vacation at the grandparent's last week, one of the places we went was Abe Lincoln's New Salem log village. It was actually where my parent's had their first date back in the late 50's. My mom made ham salad sandwiches and my dad told her she was going to marry him someday. They will celebrate their 48th anniversary this fall!

I grew up pretty close to there and we visited a lot. Instead of being the little girl who loved pink ballerinas and sparkly princesses, I was the little girl who fell in love with long simple dresses, aprons, & bonnets; rag dolls, and covered wagons. Even as a child, I loved the simple life and wanted to live there.
Later on, as a teenager, my younger sister and I, worked there as historical interpreters. Dressing in the 1830's garb, pretending we lived in a cabin, cooking over a fireplace, churning butter, tending herb gardens, spinning wool into yarn....all to show and teach others how life was in those days.

It had been several years since I had been there. There are no words to explain my emotions and how amazing it was to take my daughter (and of course Little Toot) there for her first visit.

Ashleigh checking out Honest Abe

Entering the village.

Ashleigh loved the schoolhouse.

Logan loved the animals.

Being regaled with stories from a historical interpreter.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - 01

For today --

Outside My Window... the sun has set. Dusk is falling. Sweaty kids are laughing as they put away their bikes and toys.

I am thinking... about how dirty my happy children are. I need to run a bath.

I am thankful for... summer. Being able to take a vacation trip to see my family. And being back home again.

From the kitchen... tonight we had the left-overs of last night's amazing dinner. My brother, sister-in-law, neice & nephew, were here for two days. My husband and I worked together to prepare a japanese stir-fry.

I am wearing... jean shorts, red t-shirt, pony-tail, barefoot

I am creating... some new blog features. A list of busy activity ideas for my soon-to-be 2 yr old to do while I am homeschooling his sister this fall. Another list I just realized I need to be creating is a some ideas for my daughter's birthday...only a month away!

I am going... to re-plan and re-organize our schedule & routines this week. Begin preparing for fall - curriculum, getting up earlier, chore charts, etc...

I am reading... Rainbow's End - by Irene Hannon. A little Love Inspired book my mom gave me while I was there last week.

I am hoping...for a blessed night of rest tonight. My body has been struggling/fighting against a sinus/head cold; leaving me drained. (no pun intended)

I am hearing... the humming of a fan. My dear husband beginning to softly snore.

Around the house... we got it mostly picked up before bedtime. Dishwasher is scrubbing away. Sink is shined....thanks to the flylady :)

One of my favorite things... warm chocolate cake with french vanilla ice cream on top. (another leftover from last night. so NOT needed...but ohhh yummy)

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: voting in our primary election, library time tomorrow morning. I need to study and prepare for teaching my pre-k class at church wed night. Our homeschool group's annual picnic.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

(If you would like to join this meme, visit: http://thesimplewoman.blogspot.com/ )