Do something about it in the New Year

First I find myself right back where I was last year on New Years eve.... sigh. At least this year we will have company at our house- even if we are unable to "go out".

So I wrote a post here.
About things that I want to change, or will continue to do again. They were not resolutions rather brainstorming ways to be happier. Now a list is great (ok, not to me, they give me hives. In fact I have even discussed MY kind of to do list.) Ok, so I was pretending that lists were great. ... But a to do list is only good if you do it. Unfortunately writing it down does not complete the task (unfortunately).

No, for a list to be worthy one must DO SOMETHING about what is written down.

I started yesterday. I stopped at the health food/ nutritional store and purchase a higher dose vitamin D supplement and put my name on a waiting list for this herbal/supplement blend call Mood Mender. Both are suppose to help with the anxiety and depression that come with this time of the year.

Next, Dearest and I went to the movie last night - Avatar. Say what you want about it, but, I really enjoyed it. (I am sure that it is because I have not been out in a long long time and our movie theater has been closed for months for a remodel - so this was the first movie I have seen in the theater since????? I was a year younger maybe) However, before we went to the theater we stopped at the store and I invested in a set of snowshoes!!!!!! YIPPPY SKIPPY. I am so excited.

So - from my list - I can pencil in a check mark next to two items on my list. I can not use a Sharpie until I do this sort of thing over and over - but I need to start somewhere.

What is top on your "list of happiness" for the New Year?

Collaborative Photo Project- Serenity, see also Peace

This weeks word was - Serenity, see also Peace
















Jules























Debra


More information here

:: I need to :: I will ::

Things, they need to change.

::I need to cut the guilt out.

::I need to figure out where this anxiety is coming from and eliminate it - at least control it.

::I need to remember how much better I feel when I plan and do things outside of the house. (then I need to plan and do things outside of the house)

::I need to continue to find me.

::I need to enjoy my stay at home mom status since it won't last much longer.

::I will go on another trip - somewhere fun, with a friend. That was the best thing I have ever done in my life I think.

::I will get our taxes done ASAP this year.

::I will remember that I am worthy, I will shoot for feeling beautiful more then every once in a great while, and I won't worry about five - seven pounds that comes and goes (more often comes).


::I need to not feel anxious, guilty, or wrong for reading, watching movies, sitting down to a t.v. show or other things that I enjoy. Why have I stopped doing these things? Why do I feel bad when I do them?

::I need to find some patience.

::I need to put my foot down - I am a mom and I have a family. I am an adult. I can decide what we do and when - see point one and two as these then come into play.

::I need to remember things I enjoy, and make time for them - rock climbing, I think I would like snowshoeing, biking, hiking, canoeing, and general outdoor adventure sports. Now, how to do these?

::It is time to clean things out - clutter is getting the best of us.

::I need to get back on a healthy track. I have stopped being vigilante about what we take into our bodies, about our schedules, and our activities. I have been lax in our exposure to certain things etc. This is starting to show in our health and happiness, and general state of well being.

::I need to not call these resolutions, they are just things I have been thinking on. Something to post about today.

::I need to change some things. No time like now.

photos from vi.sualize.us

12 Years Ago Today

We said " I will"

Our family gathered for the fun.

We smiled

We danced.

12 Years ago today

pictures scanned
from 35 mm prints

Are you guilty of misjudging others?

I just got a comment that made me step back for a minute.
It came in about this post here

The comment from Anon. reads:

Jules,
Thanks for this blog. Ms. Dolphay (Ms. only because she was divorced) was also my teacher, many years after she retired. She was my grandmother and taught me many things; Greek and Norse mythology and the 8 parts of speech which I can still recite by heart. I thank you for your view and being able to peek in a window on her that a 10 year old never never could have seen. I also must agree that it is those who make you work the hardest and challenge yourself that you really appreciate.

(note: I put grandmother in bold myself to aid those of you skimming)


Wow, wow, wow....

First - thank you for the comment anon.
Secondly - if you remember reading the post you might know why I cringed at first. Here was a grandchild (of this teacher that I posted about) reading my post. If you don't recall the post- you may want to go back and read it... I mentioned some unfavorable memories about this person's relative. Yes, in the end I said she really did stand out as my favorite teacher, but it was only after I said things like she resembled a troll.

I was a bit flustered and embarrased really. But, then I stopped, thought, and felt better. I was NOT saying this woman WAS a troll, or any of the other things I mentioned. I said as a Jr. Higher I THOUGHT or HEARD these things. Obviously my commentor was able to make it through the post and get my true meaning. For that I am thankful.

But interesting isn't it. The ideas or the rumors we hear about a person initially - the ones that create our thoughts on that person don't always stand up in the end. First impressions are strong, where we are at in life matters (jr. high, middle of a divorce, not yet married, poor, or rich) it matters in how we see others. Yet, it is only wrong if in the end you stick to that perception. If you start seeing through those first impressions and mis-judgings yet you continue to hold the wrong opinion on others- that is when you are wrong.

Keep an open mind, take an interest in those who are not like you or your current group of friends, step outside your comfort zone, be curious. These are the only way we won't miss out on what others have to offer us.

And yes, even teachers that we think of as "the worst" may eventually be the one you find thinking of the best. Or your best friend may end up being the girl with the dyed black hair and lip ring.

Who have you misjudged?

p.s. (thank goodness blogs don't get graded. Ms. Dolphay would be shaking her head and clicking her tongue at me as she marked up this page in bright red :)

The simplest things

A New Friendly Face

The soft glow of lights

Christmas Presents Awaiting Children

Sometimes it really is the simplest things

Wishing you and yours the happiest of Holidays.

An in with the Big Guy

We have an in with Santa

See here

Photo Project - Star

Collaborative Photo Project - Star

Let's review for those who are new or forgetful:

Debra @ Sojourner and I have been partaking in a photo project for over two months now. Each week we chose a word. We then each take a photo that represents this word. Only once in all these weeks have our photos matched.

Jules

Deb @ Sojourner

If you have missed the last nine posts you can find them here:
Reflect
Snow
Grey
Light
Read
Exhilarate
Fear
Care

Free

I am off to wrap gifts now. If you don't hear from me before supper- call the authorities and look under the wrapping mess and tape ball

Something to Hoot about

Sweet Baboo Designs
Just Love Coffee

Aren't these just about the cutest little owls you have ever seen?
A lady at my church has an Etsy shop - who doesn't these days you say... well this one is a bit different in that it is set up to help with the costs of their pending adoption. They are in the process of adopting a beautiful little girl named Valerie from Hong Kong.

The picture of the owls alone would not have drawn my attention, but, Heidi had a basket of these cute little owls in the fellowship hall of church and I was drawn. They are so soft and squishy. Plus, a good cause.

Help a mom out. Get a cute new pet in the process.

Through the Lens

They are mine


They are beautiful
But I am partial


Now you know.

One follows the other

^{Pic by J.J.}

¹⁷Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.

Philippians 3:17 (New International Version)

More Than Words to a Song

I believe in Santa Claus I believe in Santa Claus
I believe there's always hope when all seems lost
And I believe in Santa Claus
I believe in Santa Claus, I'll tell you why I do
'Cause I believe that dreams and plans and wishes can come true
I believe in miracles,
I believe in magic too
Oh I believe in Santa Claus and I believe in you

I believe in family, in country and in smiles
I believe in turnin' negatives to positives in life
I believe in lookin' farther up the farther down we get
I believe when someone hurts us we should forgive and forget

And I believe in Santa Claus I believe in Santa Claus I believe love should prevail at any cost And I believe in Santa Claus
I believe in saying what you mean and meaning what you say
I believe a better attitude can make a better way
And I believe in viewing life as a journey that we're on
And lookin' at our troubles as another stepping stone

vi.sualize.us

And I believe that everything in life is what it's meant to be
I believe there is a God somewhere although he's hard to see
I believe I am so therefore I should do all that I can
To be a better piece in the puzzle of God's plan

And I believe in Santa Claus I believe in Santa Claus I believe there's always hope when all seems lost And I believe in Santa Claus

Let the little children sing it

I believe in Santa Claus, I believe in Santa Claus I believe in Santa Claus, I believe in Santa Claus

Let the whole world sing it with us

I believe in Santa Claus, I believe in Santa Claus I believe in Santa Claus, I believe in Santa Claus

Let the whole world sing it with us

I believe in Santa Claus I believe in Santa Claus I believe there's always hope when all seems lost I believe in Santa Claus

Artist: Parton Dolly
Song: I Believe In Santa Claus
Album: Once Upon A Christmas

Keeping My Hair

vi.sualize.us

It is 5:30(ish) Friday evening. Tomorrow we will get into the van and drive 2 hrs to my in-laws. It will be our first Christmas celebration of the season. In about 16 hrs we will be peddling down the road. I should be panicked, the gifts we are bringing aren't wrapped, the clothes aren't packed and I am not even sure what the kids will be wearing. The dog should get brushed so she doesn't shed so much at someone else's house, and oh goodness the house. How this little house can go from clean to NOT in 1.5 hrs is amazing to me. I wish I had one of those time warp cameras.... no, maybe I don't.

But, instead of freaking out and acting a fool, I am writing a blog. I have learned that it will come together - I will pull it together in the end. It helps that there is no longer two porta-cribs to pack (yes that is how close together we had our kids), diapers and formula are a distant memory, and the main thing we have to make sure is that noone forgot to pack underwear for the next day and a toothbrush (and paste) and if that happens - oh well...

These two things combined have been a great help during this busy holiday season. (to review -1- me less panicky -2- kids easier to pack for and to tote along, maybe #2 brings on #1) Maybe, just maybe, I will come back with just about as much hair as I left with.

Me Mom - A Picture

Merry Christmas from me - the mom.

Although I don't talk about my kids too much on this blog.
While they are a huge part of my life (obviously)
I come here to have my own space.

But this is one of those occasions to share.
These are three of my four sprouts.
Grandma - The oldest was at home with the stomach flu.

This is me, mom.

Of course, I couldn't leave you without a giggle, this is my youngest.
I'd say he isn't quite 'trusting' Santa yet.

pictures scanned
taken by ECFE

I just now (7:38 Friday morning) realized that I missed my blog-o-versary! I started this blog on December 9th,2008. So... ummm

♫Happy blogoversary to me ♫

Wordless Wednesday - Reflect

Jules- Reflect

Deb- Reflect

More on this Photo Project can be found here.

Are you that desperate for attention?

I heard......

Did you hear.....

She said......

OHHHH, Susie such and such's husband......

Why? Why do people find it so necessary to talk about others?

Not as in, Susie such and such's husband was award the medal of valor. NOOOOO, her husband was seen eating out with Bob such and such's wife, whisper whisper whisper....that is the dirt they want to dish.

Now while it is important that I know that Susie's husband left her, so that I don't make an idiot out of myself and ask about his welfare the next time we run into each other - it is the grey areas I could do with out. The guessing, implying, and outright lying. The rumor.

Gossips bother me - a lot.

Do not call me, or stop me to tell me a bit of "news". I don't want to know, unless it is about you. If you knew how it made you look in my eyes - you wouldn't do it. Because what I am seeing is a desperate attempt to make yourself feel better, or avoid your own issues all the same. The next time I see you your words should be kind or they should be about yourself.

Oh, and just so you know. I usually call Susie and ask her what is going on. I include in the conversation who told me what.... yeah, I like first hand knowledge and so does Susie. So, again, unless your words are kind, Susie now knows you were talking about her. The end.

The Best Commercial Ever

My old roommate Christa contacted me today on Facebook. Instantly the memory of her saying "time to make the donuts" every morning came flooding back (she has the cutest accent). I still say this to my hubby at least once a week if not more. So in honor of Christa and the best commercial ever - remember Fred:

Still On Auto

I haven't even had time to to read the whole of the "Quick Start Guide" that came with my camera. The 18-55mm lens that was to come with my camera was not shipped, my 55-200mm lens was - hmmmmm. Yet, I have snapped a few pics. How could I not?!
Although, I have only moved the dial from Auto to No flash. There has to be a starting point, right ?

In honor of Julochka @ Moment's Of Perfect Clarity - here are my pics unedited. Now, I understand why she believes pics can stand on their own - because when you have a REALLY good camera - they can!

Boys in front of tree 6:30am Sunday morn'

How birds stay warm when the temps dip below zero.


The wise Kitty Lou


That look is hereditary (btw) he got it from me
(I have a perma wrinkle between my brows)

Self Portrait with my camera ala Julochka style
(yes, she sold me a loooong time ago)

It's About Trust

vi.sualize.us

We are not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us;
We are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be.

(Clive Staples) C. S. Lewis
Into The Wardrobe

Giddy

MY CAMERA CAME!


If Dearest can pick up a camera - point - shoot - and come up with a picture that makes me think I look good I am s.o.l.d.!!!!! I didn't even have to edit this pic. Not that Dearest is an idiot (far far from it, actually) however, him and cameras don't 'click' (hehe, get it)

But last night after I returned from church a big box of joy was sitting in my foyer. (Nikon D60 + lenses) I played with it for a minute, snapped a few pics before hubby gave it a go. How fun, how easy, how wonderful.

I am giddy!!!!!

I have to go now - I am off to play with my new toy - crush - possibly love? :)

In the mean time scroll down and see my other love. Yeah, right down there.

I AM IN LOVE

I am in love. I get excited, my heart races a bit, and I can't wait to be back together with my new love.
It is not another person Dearest - don't worry, it is soap.
Yep soap. Laura @ Corabela sent me a sampling of soap from her new Etsy shoppe and I am in L-O-V-E !!!!!!! I have never used a homemade soap that was this nice. The bars are a nice size (they fit in your hand perfectly), the smell is intoxicating.

Now, normally homemade soaps putter out when it comes time to use them - they don't lather, they feel sticky on your skin, they let you down in the end. But, not this soap. This lathers big fluffy bubbles and goes on smooths and rinses off clean.

All in all this is a great product - one you should consider. Laura is a great blogger, and obviously an amazing soap maker. Check out her Etsy shoppe : HERE

I know many many people who would love a bar for Christmas.
(Heck, buy 5 the shipping is free then!!!)

Collaborative Photo Project - SNOW

Snow

Deb's Snow

Jules' Snow

Oh what fun it is to have a friend to play with on a snowy day! Deb and I choose a random word and post pics on Wednesday. Most of the time our takes on the word differ. Check past posts to see what we've come up with.

here (free), here (care),
here (fear), here (exhilarate)
(light) here,
and last week's (grey) here.

Only one of our words (read) generated similar photos. Check it out here.

p.s

I do not feel all that well right now. So, I cheated - copied and pasted Debs post. So all links lead to her. Why not?

To:

To My Children: I know you hate school. Everybody hates school. Once you get there I know that you enjoy yourself at least part of the day - but like all things, getting there is the hard part.

To My Hubby: Thank you for saying "You are beautiful" when you woke me yesterday, I smiled thinking about it all day.

To My Family: All I really want for Christmas is what I just ordered: A Nikon D60. So, money to help pay for this purchase REALLY would be appreciated. OR a Nikon D60 for Dummies book. If that is not ok with you, then a girt card to Gander Mt. for clothes will work too.(weird huh? but that is where I buy all my clothes)

To The Preschool: Thank you for taking my four totes of toys for the holiday store. I can not tell you what a relief it is to get rid of all that clutter. Especially when it goes to such a good cause.

vi.sualize.us

To Our Christmas Tree: Don't fall over again. One time a season is all I can handle.

To The Cats: Stay the h#ll out of the Christmas tree. See above.

To Global Warming or Weather Pattern Change or whatever you want to call it: we need snow. My kids tried to make a snow angels and made it turned out to be more of a grass angels.

To The Christmas Spirit: Please come find me. I am finding it harder and harder to conjure up. This is bad because my kids are getting more and more excited as the years pass. (hopefully we will surpass each other and they can start decorating and setting the mood).

To Hannah: You are the best babysitter - I am so excited to have you babysitting this weekend!

To The World: Please level off for me so that I can start doing things like watching movies and reading books again. I miss it, it is my two favorite things to do (beside blogging)

To The Pipeline Workers in Town: I know "y'all" are from Texas, Florida, Georgia, and other deep South states. I know this snow and ice is throwing you and your "big ole" diesel trucks for a loop... but, really move aside and let the rest of us go as you figure out how to drive in these conditions.

To Everyone on FaceBook: I am usually kidding - I wish there was a symbol or sign for sarcasm, that way people would know I was JUST KIDDING.

To Corabela: I received the soaps and am sooooo in love! I can hardly unwrap and use them. They are just too pretty. I will show everyone (that is you) these soaps very very soon (maybe tomorrow if the sun shines so I can take a better pic)

To You Reading: Thanks :)

I will be the Next Playmate

Well, none of you guessed it. When I posted the pic of the amazing Nikon D60....

The truth is :
I have been assigned as the next Playboy Playmate.
You can catch my full page spread in February.

Apparently they are trying to appeal to the desperate dads of the world
and want to feature haggard housewives. Stay tuned ;)

Ok - no MOM, not for real. But man... if they paid enough... hmmmm

no, seriously !! I ordered and hope to receive before the end of the week my very own

NIKON D60!!!!

I have no idea how to use it or what I have gotten myself into - but here is hoping!
Maybe, I could shoot for Playboy? nahhhh....
(they are in CA)

Guess What?

Let the Season Begin

click to make it easier to read

This Fit Courtesy of Obama

Charlie Brown was pre-empted for the presidential address. Call me anti- American, but as a mom this was horrible. Another case of bad timing and judgment on the governments part. My guess is they figured they could pull in the mom and children demographic since that is who would be tuning in at that time. Sorry, we didn't stick around to watch. We as mom's were scrambling. I for one had based my whole day and children's motivation off from this show and the new Prep and Landing show that was to follow (you should follow that link if you have kids, there are some cool things over there - including an elf training game I rock at ;)


I had gotten my kids to do a ridiculous amount of helping and cleaning all in the name of watching these shows. Our plan was to get our jammies on and have a movie/popcorn party (for which we needed a clean living area- right?! see, the line of thinking I used? tricky. parent trickery) Imagine what happens when four kids are all set and ready for movie time only to find the president on and no hope of it ending soon. No Charlie Brown no peace. sigh..... Chaos erupted - crying, screaming, and the kids weren't much better....

I have been searching the guide on the t.v. trying to find when they rescheduled with no luck. Today in desperation I did a Google search and yippy! T.V. guide has gone high tech and is online. Not only that, but, they have a special guide just for the Holiday season. So, for my readers in America you can click the link before and see when and what station your favorite Holiday show will air.

TV Guide Holiday Show Calender

You can thank me later - after your house is cleaned by your children (who you now know to motivate with the promise of a popcorn/movie party) and in their p.j.'s by 6:45pm. Just don't blame me if Obama ruins your plans.