Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful women who mother in their own special way! I am so thankful to be a daughter of God, knowing that I have an important work to do in nurturing and loving those around me. 

The errand of angels is given to women;

And this is a gift that, as sisters, we claim:

To do whatsoever is gentle and human,

To cheer and to bless in humanity’s name.

 (Emily H. Woodmansee, “As Sisters in Zion,” Hymns, no. 309.) 

 

 And oh, how thankful I am for my own wonderful mother! With my kids now I am frequently reminded of moments with my mom when I was little. Sneaking chunks of cookie dough when she was baking, feeling so excited when she let me "clean" with her, loving her attention when she tucked me in bed. So many things she taught me, and words of wisdom she shared. And I'm still learning from her, she amazes me. 

 

This morning in church a very shy woman spoke and shared an outpouring of love for her mother - "I love my mom from the bottom of my heart. I'm crazy about her. She's my best friend and always looks out for me and cares for. I miss being with her all the time. I miss her cooking. I love my mom with all my heart from the bottom of my heart."

 

Oh so true! I love my mom! 

We Thank Thee Oh God...

" We thank thee, O God, for a prophet
To guide us in these latter days.

We thank thee for sending the gospel
To lighten our minds with its rays.

We thank thee for every blessing
Bestowed by thy bounteous hand.

We feel it a pleasure to serve thee
And love to obey thy command."

I really love this hymn. A long time ago, before I actually paid attention to the words of songs, I thought it was just about Prophets and being grateful for them. It would still be a great song if that were true, but there really is so much more to it. The first verse is full of rejoicing and obvious gratitude, "We thank thee"!! for a Prophet, for the gospel, for every blessing, and even to serve and obey!

 Many people may balk at those words, "serve" and "obey". For allot of people they have very negative meanings. But think about it, your best friend has car trouble and you gladly pick her up and help however you can - service. If you have kids you perform service for them all day long, and you're happy to do it because you love them. If you love God than serving Him really is a pleasure! And get this, when you serve your friends and family, you're already serving God.

Mosiah 2:17 And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn ^awisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the ^bservice of your ^cfellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.

"Obey" may be a little trickier, but lets think about trust here. Growing up we trusted that our parents knew what was best for us, don't touch the stove, don't play in the street, eat your veggies. We are all Gods children, and yes - we are still very young, there is allot for us to learn. He has set guidelines for us. If we trust Him, as children trust parents, we can obey Him joyfully, knowing that it is in our best interest to do so. 

Mosiah 2:41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and ^ahappy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are ^bblessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out ^cfaithful to the end they are received into ^dheaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it. 

I have officially gone on a tangent, but I think it was a good one! 

A Pearl

I've been meaning (for a long time now) to put some things in writing. Memories, thoughts, lessons learned. With a little help of a Readers Digest contest I'm starting the process of recording! I don't usually (as in ever!) do this kind of thing, but my mom suggested it and she's a smart cookie so I tend to listen to her. Plus I'm feeling lucky!
I wanted to post my "story" here first though, and if you feel so inclined to vote for me that would be lovely. :)

'I was the awkward "tween". The day had been hot and sticky and I wondered out loud if I should bathe before an evening activity. My mother quickly answered with some very good advice, "When in doubt, take a shower". I don't think she realized it, but she gave me some of the best words to live by. I have used them countless times, and in many different situations.

Do I eat the cookie, or the apple? Do I spend money now, or wait for what I really want? Do I stay home, or spend some time with a friend? Do I sit on the couch, or do I get up and play with the kids? "When in doubt, take a shower" translates to 'When in doubt, just do it!'.

By following this advice I have lived a more full and beautiful life. I have made some of my best decisions and learned some of my greatest lessons. I look forward to more goodness as I remember what mother told me so long ago, "When in doubt, take a shower."'

Is Gratitude the Answer?

I recently read a book by Ann Voskamp called "One Thousand Gifts". A very good, Christian book. I just happened upon it during one of my visits to the library (the kind of visit where I leave the kids home so I can have some quite moments to put myself together again). I really think Heavenly Father wanted me to read this. He knows me so well and knew that I needed to become aware of the power of gratitude. While reading this book I really felt changed - my days were the same as ever, my problems still there, but I was so much happier and GRATEFUL for my life. Even for our trials and the situations we are in. Through gratitude I was opened up to understanding, and caught glimpses of the lessons we are learning and the strength we are gaining. For almost 2 whole weeks every journal entry began with "Today was such a great day!", or something similar.

I finished the book, thinking I would start my own gratitude list, or take some action to help me remember and use this new blessing of happiness. But then I forgot, and let "life" wash over me again. I did start a list, but the effort was half hearted and it's never easily accessible. I'll have to devise something more tailored for me, because I want this - Gratitude - to be a part of me. I am so DONE with my negativity and pessimism! I don't need that, my family doesn't need that! Awhile ago I was trying to figure some things out about what I want for my family, what I want to teach them and what Heavenly Father would have me teach them. I wrote out three things and they seem as wonderfully true to me now as they did months ago.
I want to teach my children to:

One - Love life and the Gospel

Two - Celebrate life and the Gospel

Three - Be active in life and the Gospel

These three things do not require money, prestige, or any special circumstance. But I am realizing that they all require gratitude and are even an expression of gratitude. When I was experiencing a more grateful heart it was so much easier for me to feel and fulfill those three goals. And truly amazing, with an attitude of gratitude my faith increased, my hope increased, and even my love and charity towards others increased! The pure love of Christ! Any life filled with that is a full life. Joy and Gladness!

I came across the authors' website and watched this little video. Pretty sure the words are straight from the book, and it has sparked this revival of gratitude in my life that I am in turn sharing with you.

Simple Pleasures - Pen and Paper

No joke. Pen and paper make me happy! A blank page, a pen, a pencil, a crayon, oh the possibilities! No, I am not an artist, I don't write poetry or deep and meaningful passages. Mostly I journal, write notes on random pieces of paper that I can never find again, and make lists. I list what I need to do, I list what I would like to do, I list what I dream about doing. I feel better when I get things out on paper, like I somehow made space in my brains.

Todays Simple Pleasure...

Today was a perfect day to wash the bed sheets. It wasn't hard to get my almost-3-year-old excited to help. Taking things apart is always fun, right! The best part? My simple pleasure for the day, that I will look back on with fondness?

"Fluffing" the feather bed topper.

(which included jumping, shaking, pouncing, free falling, and playing 'human burrito')

p.s. for more of the "small" things that bring us joy check out Chocolate on my Cranium - love that girl!

Simple Pleasures

I'm all about "simple". When things get too complicated my brain starts to feel sticky, and I don't like that. Especially on days like today - bitterly cold outside and stuffy noses inside. So what brings me joy right now? 

Quite simply, my couch.

So many Titles, So little Time

Every day I come up with at least 2 post titles to blog about, but I find it hard to update that often (obviously). So this post will most likely consist of little blurbs, random and possibly not the most thought provoking, but therapeutic for me - which is great!

My Dilemma

Going out of the house for whatever reason is usually a big production. Fully stocked diaper bag over one shoulder, baby carrier hooked through an arm, and the other arm reaching for a 2 year olds wandering hand. Many things are bumped into, and some things are forgotten (like the item that I was going to return to the store - the reason for going out in the first place). Yet, I still venture out, because staying in for too long threatens my sanity.

So when it is time to buy more diapers I am ready to go. On a recent trip I was feeling so good about myself and how capable I was to go shopping with two children. My girl was strapped to my front and my boy was in the cart seat. I strolled around as I got what we needed and we were all three still quite happy as we began to check out. At this point it wasn't long before I discovered that my wallet was not where I thought it was....

And so I left all my non-purchases at the cashier for some poor worker to re-stock. My boy was sad to leave behind his snacks, and my girl cried most of the way home. So when we got there the momma needed to be held by the daddy.

4 Diapers in 10 Minutes!

I have been so pleased that this new little baby has not had the leaking and "blow-out" diapers that I expected. However I think the reason for that is because she somehow saves it for when I change her. I think she's done and get the new diaper under her, but wait! There's more! Okay, new diaper and she sneezes this time...I can't blame her, it's such a tiny body, no room for extra stuff. New diaper, but now she's angry at being moved around and exposed for so long, so she's crying and those great tummy muscles are very effective. New diaper and I actually get her dressed again. We are relaxing and all of a sudden...we need a new diaper. Amazing.

Hello Ankles!

While pregnant I was all too aware of my weight gain and how swollen I was. I got used to it though, what else could I do? After she was born I was a little disappointed to see that my extremities swelled up even more. Oh well, my head hurt so it was easy to not think about these cankles. And then, one day I looked down and was amazed to see MY ankles! I had forgotten what they looked like! My ankle bone was actually visible! They didn't look soft and puffy! They were mine again! Hello ankles! You have been missed! Lets do some yoga!

Tears In My Eyes

When I'm laughing so hard with my little boy, talking to my sweet girl as she focuses on my face, or holding them both in arms, I am grateful. And it shows in my eyes. I just can't help myself.

It's Not Easy

So I was talking with one of my wonderful sister-in-laws awhile ago and she asked me how I was handling two kids. And I believe I said "it's easier", which was taken to mean that two was easier than one. Not so! How could it be!? What was I thinking? Well, I'll tell you. I was thinking that having a baby was easier this time compared to my first time. Mostly because I have somewhat of an idea of what to do and what to expect. Catering to the needs of two small children is demanding, tiring, crazy, and fulfilling. Not easy. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

 Shower?

I have been feeling a great need and desire to simplify and bring order to our lives. I have ideas in my head of what should be done but I really have a problem putting them into action. One thing that I think is crucial is that I set up a routine for our days, when do we go to the park, when do we have lunch and naps. That sort of thing. Of course we wouldn't have to stick to it every single day, but it would be comforting to have a "normal" to fall back on. So for the past two weeks I've been trying to figure out our routine. My hang-up? Shower time. When can I take a shower?! Is it okay to leave my 2 year old in front of the TV, and the baby sleeping in her crib? Honestly, I tried it once and after a 3 minute shower they were both screaming. Hmmm.

Alright, I suppose that's enough for now. I apologize if you were somewhat bored and/or confused by my randomness, but this has been quite refreshing for me!

I had a baby and my head popped off

At least it felt like it. Everything for labor and delivery went by without a problem, just some slight difficulty with getting the epidural inserted. Once it was in it was wonderful - until the next day....

It started as a back ache, like I had exercised my back for hours. The tension leaked up into my neck and head. Moving was bad, but sitting or standing upright was torture. And the longer I stayed up the worse the torture. And so I had an epidural headache, at least that's what I'm calling it.

Sometimes I cried because of the pain, sometimes I cried from frustration. Not being able to fully enjoy both of my babies was brutal. I lived as horizontally as possible for the first week after having our baby girl, leaving the bulk of our family's care in the hands of my wonderful husband. I love him!

Every day was marginally better than the last, giving me snippets of hope but really trying my patience. After a week I called my doctor and was directed to the ER for "evaluation". Some hours later I was given the option of a blood patch (some of my own blood injected in the epidural sight to fill the space supposedly left by leaking cerebral spinal fluid), or continue resting until it heals itself. I felt I had passed the worst of it and didn't want another invasive procedure, so I chose rest. We were told that caffeine and chocolate could help, so I ate chocolate bars while laying down...small consolation.

Even now, 12 days after delivery, I still feel a twinge of pain at the base of my skull and need to lay down frequently. But I am so much better!! And I really have a huge appreciation for the small things of Motherhood. Like being able to color with my little boy, or yes, even being able to change a diaper. I am also SOOO grateful for my wonderful family and the help they have given us. A lucky girl am I, to be so loved! Thank you!

GRATITUDE :

An appreciative awareness and thankfulness, as for kindness shown or something received.

This is just a random definition that I pulled off the internet but I liked it because it uses the word "awareness". I really have allot to be thankful for, it's the "awareness" part that I have trouble with. When "life" doesn't go the way I think it should I forget to be grateful that Heavenly Father is really in charge and knows more about my needs than I do. And when my 19 month old has a really bad cold and I have a painful ear infection at the same time I forget to be thankful for comfort cuddles and all the little things my husband does to help.
I'm a pretty happy person most of the time but I must admit that I have a "negative ninny" streak. I think of the quote in "Pollyanna"; "If you look for the bad in things you will surely find it.", or something like that. For some reason the 'bad' in a situation pops out at me before anything else, making it hard for me to feel gratitude, making it even harder to see the good stuff. Just one of those vicious cycles I participate in. THANKFULLY this cycle is easily reversed. Once I remind myself to be grateful for what I have I then become more aware of my many blessings, thus making it easier to express gratitude. See what I mean? Having a whole month focused on "Thanksgiving" doesn't hurt either. :)
I am thankful for my husband and son. They make me smile.
I am thankful for our families and the help and support they give us.
I am grateful for fast drying nail polish and good lip gloss.
I'm thankful for medicine that can help our bodies recover.
I am thankful to my Savior.
I am thankful that I have the true Gospel in my life so I can teach it to my children.
I am grateful for this little girl that loves to kick and move around in my belly!

I really have a great life, with allot to be thankful for.

Some little things.

I am now 14 weeks and 3 days "along". For a little over a week now I have felt better. It is amazing to actually feel hungry when I'm hungry, instead of like I need to puke. Or like I need to burp when I need to burp, instead like I need to puke. Or like I'm tired when I'm tired, instead of like I need to puke. It was very confusing at times!

But, oh what a blessing to feel more "normal", and to have more energy! I still need to remind myself to take it easy though. I'm not quite what I was, but I certainly am enjoying "life" much more and it's wonderful!

Here are some little things we have experienced in the past few days:

Little John had his first day at Monroe County Community College! We went with Grandma to pick Uncle Wyatt up from classes because he had some car trouble. When Grandmas' car stopped working too we got to walk around a bit! He is always so bold and independent, which I think this picture shows nicely. It was an adventurous day!


He is getting better with a spoon, I think.... But it didn't take him long to decide that 'drinking' the yogurt was more efficient. :)


And today we went to the park. All the fancy slides and equipment are fun, but this bike-holder-thingy is the best!



More updates to come!

Grandma's Garden

My mom has done a great job on her garden this year, and it shows! I am so impressed by her hard work! She continues to be a great example in my life. Here are some pictures of her fabulous "fruits".

The squash, and potatoes, and tomatoes are anxiously awaited, but in the mean time we have tasted the best fresh spinach, radishes, and peas! The strawberries came from a store, but they are beautiful - and certainly a summer staple!

Sloth

I don't know if it's the humidity or what, but my energy and enthusiasm levels have been quite low lately. My little John is the only motivation I have to keep moving. Otherwise I would be reading (it's a good book!), or simply making lists of all the things I think I should do, need to do, or would like to be doing. I like lists, and I'm usually pretty good at using them effectively. But when they get too long I seem to become paralyzed by all the different directions they take me. Ha! There's my problem! I just need to cut down on my list, simple. I knew a little 'blog reflection' would help. I feel enthused already!

Another thing I am feeling is gratitude. The good book I am reading currently is "Life and Death in Shanghai". I will write more about it when I finish reading, but for now it is renewing my gratitude for this wonderful country that we live in! How blessed we are to have freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom itself!! I am humble by how good I have it.

Imagination

I'm thankful for good books!
Been reading Twilight...need I say more?!!
Soooo excited to see the movie tomorrow!

1 and 2 and 1 and 2.....

I am thankful for exercise.
I don't exercise on a regular basis, and sometimes it's really hard to get moving, but it really is a great blessing to be able to workout and "feel the burn". I was thinking about this last night when I started doing sit-ups after putting little John to bed. It actually felt like my body was craving movement and excursion! I guess I have been living a sedentary life lately. The cold weather doesn't help, but I'm sure I could be more creative on what to do for a workout. I dance around with little John sometimes, he's a good 20lb weight! He really likes that, but it gets boring fast. Any suggestions?

Make the effort

I am so thankful for opportunity.
We have the ability to learn and grow and do, every moment of every day. Yes, it takes some effort to change attitudes or situations or whatever. But the opportunities are there and the effort is worth it

Selective Slacking

Hi, my name is Jamie, and I am a selective slacker.
When I have allot to do (or feel like I have allot to do) I tend to let some things slip. Work, writing on my blog, keeping in contact with friends and family, exercise. Sometimes I think this is okay though. All the seemingly little things that pop up in everyday life can easily tip the scale of sanity. We can't control all that is placed on our scale but when things get unbalanced we have to compensate somehow. And so my phrase of "selective slacking". Sometimes the weight of "normal" activity needs to be temporarily set aside in order to make room for the necessary uncontrollables.
I am thankful for selective slacking.

You are getting VERY sleepy...

I am grateful for sleep!
Come on-who isn't?! It feels so good to lay down, close my eyes, and not move for 6 or 8 hours. Recently we have been letting little John cry himself back to sleep at night and it has worked better than I could have imagined! He has been sleeping almost the whole time From 8p.m. to 7 a.m.. I'm still hardwired to wake up every now and then but I look forward to that changing too. I am just so happy, and so proud of my little boy!

Funny!

I am thankful for humor!
When I woke up this morning I immediately noticed this arrangement. I didn't set this up, I promise! I had to laugh. It's pretty much the oxymoron of my life! Things seem so much better after a good chuckle, don't you think?

Good idea

I am thankful for light.
We have recently had allot of light bulbs burn out and without them it is quite dark on this basement level! Yet another example of how opposition can bring about greater appreciation. To have light in our lives is a wonderful blessing.