Showing posts with label Simple Women's Daybook. Show all posts

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, September 13, 2013

Outside my window...Things are green outside from the little bit of rain we received earlier in the week.  It's been pretty warm here which makes me wish for fall just a little.  I do realize that when fall and winter are in full swing I will probably be missing summer.  I will enjoy these warm temperatures while I can.

I am thinking...about the lovely conversations that I had in Target today of all places.  I went in to get my glasses adjusted and while I waited a nice gentleman and I made small talk about glasses and it grew from there.  It was surprising to me how easy it was to spark a quality conversation.  I later spoke with two different Target staff members that were genuinely nice and interesting.

I am thankful for...Friday night dinner and a movie time with my kids.  I couldn't get enough of the good food and cuddles.

I am wearing...A black cotton 1950's inspired dress with a raspberry tank peaking through.  It's time to do laundry around here so I thank God that this was clean.

I am remembering...old friends and good times.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, August 23, 2013

Outside my window...it  was a sunny day in Lawrence, KS.  We are wrapping up summer with warmer temperatures.  There's still time to hit the swimming pool before it gets cold again.


I am thinking...about all the things I haven't checked off my to-do list due to a yucky upper respiratory virus I got a couple weeks ago.  I have been to the doctor twice and I'm taking an antibiotic finally.  I've tried a cough suppressant and that doesn't seem to be helping that much.  I also have tried Zyrtec to rule out allergies and that just knocked me out the next day and made me feel like a zombie.  I am hopeful about the antibiotic.  Keeping my fingers crossed.      

I am thankful for...my Mom.  Even though we get on each other's nerves and know just how to push each other's buttons she is my biggest supporter.  I love you Mom!

I am wearing...A cute knit dress in gray, navy, yellow and orange color blocking.  It is so comfortable.  I just throw on a pair of sandals and a couple jewelry accessories and I am good to go.

I am remembering...my years in elementary school.  My daughter started second grade this month.  I was reminded of my second grade teacher.  She shared a little bit about herself that first week on an About Me board that we all got to do sometime before the year ended.  She had a black belt in karate, a dog or cat named taco and loved to read books.  I also remember her special chalk holder that she used when writing on the black board.  We read "The Velveteen Rabbit" that year and counted to 100 on paper.  

I am currently reading...I have done a ton of reading this summer both personally and with my kids.  Both kids and I finished the Lawrence Public Library's reading program in July with one more month to go in the summer.  I usually have a few books going at once.  Here's what I am currently reading:


For the past couple years I have signed up for the Reading Challenge that goodreads offer.  I decided to double my reading goal this year so I could also start tracking the many children's books that I have been reading with my kids.  We read a minimum of two chapters a night together right before bed and I thought I should be getting credit for that, too.  Here's my progress:


2013 Reading Challenge

2013 Reading Challenge
Emily has read 31 books toward her goal of 48 books.
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The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, October 5th, 2012

Outside my window...Fall is here and the world is getting chilly.  I like this in-between time.  This year it has been pretty dry and very little rain which is how I like it but I know it's not good for the plants.  Yesterday the kids and I counted 12 trees in the neighborhood that have started to turn a beautiful yellow color.  The red Japanese maples in the front yard have suffered due to the drought so more leaves are crispy than red.  I wonder if more plants that turn red in the fall are suffering, too.  

I am thinking...I need a shower and maybe a hair cut.  I am pretty sure my new hair style has grown out a bit and lost its shape.  I'm not used to maintaining shorter hair.  I like it though and love the ease of it.  I don't have much time to spend on my hair these days and I know that I can't really pull off the long hair I used to have.  Maybe a call to my salon friend is in order.   

I am thankful for...patience to be present and enjoy the process rather than focus just on the destination.  Without the process you aren't equipped with the tools you need to be the best you can be once you get where you are going.  I am impatient so most of the time I begrudge the process but I'm starting to see where the wisdom lies in it.  Now it's time to be consistent and do the work. 


The Simple Woman's Daybook – Saturday, September 15, 2012

Outside my window... Clouds have rolled in but no chance for rain. I sigh because I had hoped to wash some plastic tubs and let them dry in the nice warm sun before I store them. I will just have to see.

I am thinking...That is has been awhile since I have put my thoughts into this kind of entry. I have been sadly absent from my blog. My life has gotten quite busy and complicated in the last year and I'm starting to straighten some of it out finally. None of it has been easy but I am stronger because of it. You should be seeing me around the blogosphere more. That's my plan anyway.

I am thankful for...musical memories. I was able to upload all of my music that I once had on my computer this week and it has been one big trip down memory lane.


The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, January 27, 2011

-->FOR TODAY

Outside my window...it's still dark outside. I get up way too early these days.

I am thinking...about the fact that I have taken my own sweet time updating crafty creations since Christmas but I assure you I have a good excuse.

I am thankful...great big kid hugs when you really need it.

In the kitchen...I finally made my pumpkin pie last night and I got to share the whole process with my 5 year old daughter Madi. It was just as much her pie as it was mine and it turned out fabulously. It was well worth the wait. Madi even told me, “Mom, I love cooking with you today.” Now that warms the heart.


The Simple Woman's Daybook – Friday, November 11, 2011


Outside my window...It's a sunny fall day that started out pretty cold. 


I am thinking...about our special family cat, Sugar.  She is with God now and we miss her terribly. 

I am thankful for...my bookstore job that gets me out into the world a few times a week and lets me use my God given skills.

I am wearing...a great light green wrap shirt that I found in my mother's closet and jeans.  Casual but pulled together. 

I am remembering...Veterans that have served our country.  Thank you! 

I am currently reading...United Methodist Doctrine class readings.  I have several to catch up on. 

I am hoping...that Madi continues to love school and learning as much as she does today.  My little five year old started Kindergarten and I'm such a proud mommy.

On my mind...stuff and things.  Not very descriptive I know but that's how I feel. 

Noticing that...I'm not doing too bad all things considered.  There still hope in my life. 

Pondering these words...I sang this with the choir at the seminary school where I work.  It's has made quite the ear worm this past week.


From the kitchen...I had leftovers of some kicked up boxed stroganoff for lunch last week.  Tonight it was mac and cheese from the blue box with peas.  Nothing to impressive has come from the kitchen lately.  I've just been too busy and the food budget has been too tight.

Around the house...I need to get organized and start bringing things out of storage.  I am ready to have my things around me again so I can be comforted and inspired. 

One of my favorite things...the smell of freshly peeled citrus.  

From my camera... I came to my United Methodist Doctrine class a couple weeks ago and one of my classmates had brought peanut butter and jelly cupcakes to share.  It was an awesome treat at 8am and a much needed breakfast. 



Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Day Book September 16th, 2011

Outside my window...it's cooling off here a little and fall is starting to show up. 

I am thinking...about the past, present and future.  Lot's of reflection on what has happened and what is to come in my life.  I am full of possibility and hope for what the future will bring for me and my family.



I am thankful...for new opportunities for success. 

In the kitchen...Banana and Pumpkin Bread is on the docket. 

I am wearing...my bookstore work uniform of slacks, a nice blouse and clothes toed comfy shoes. 



I am creating...several yarn crafting projects are in the works right now.  I have a scarf on my red circle loom and the yarn ready for a shawl and leg warmers for my daughter Madi's dancing gear.  Pictures and a tutorial or two to come once projects are complete. 

I am going...to work on staying focused and keeping my priorities on the top of my to-do list.  Lot's to do so time management is key right now. 


I am wondering...why following your call in life has to be so hard some times. 

I am reading...several books for my United Methodist Doctrine Class and Grimm's Fairy Tales at night to my kids. 

I am hoping...for a bright and successful future to come.

I am looking forward to...a new home for my family and less worries about money. 

I am hearing...the voices of my two beautiful children as they learn to express themselves and grow into little people. 

Around the house...Madi went to the dentist this week and it was confirmed that she has an abscess on one of her front teeth.  She is going to have it extracted next week.  So far she has been a real trooper and I am grateful for that.  Oli is talking up a storm and really learning to express himself.  His favorite activity is to go outside and play in the backyard and he asks for it very clearly.  My boy is a real outside boy.  My husband Max is working on a new business venture that should be a more healthy situation for him and he will be working days.  Now we will get to spend more time together as a family. 


I am pondering..."I Surrender All"






One of my favorite things...the new quadrille pad my husband gave me my first day of class because I couldn't find my usual spiral notebook for note taking.  Now when I'm in class I can be reminded of how much my husband is there to support me. 

A few plans for the rest of the week...I hope to do a ton of loom knitting while watching movies with the family this weekend.  I also need to get a ton of reading done for my class.  The usual cleaning and eating will be fit in there as well. 



Here is picture for thought I am sharing...






Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, July 22, 2011

Outside my window...This heatwave seems endless. I'm just trying to keep cool and the plants watered.

I am thinking...that I am in great need of a shower and I'm tired of sweating.

I am thankful...for windows that open when doors close. It is so nice to be reminded that prayers do get answered.

In the kitchen...I have another strawberry pie in the works. The grocery store was out of rhubarb so I am thinking about a mixed berry pie. So far I have strawberries and blueberries.  I have a recipe to ponder.

I am wearing...my pj's for as long as I can get away with it.

I am creating...a bunch of future blog posts. I'm finally catching up with list of ideas and all the photos I have taken. If I get enough preposted my posting schedule will get more consistent. Here's to being organized!

I am going...crazy...but aren't all moms a little crazy?

I am wondering...why I have never tried Southern Blackberry Cobbler ice cream. It's an amazing taste. I just might eat the whole pint. They were on sale this past week at Hy-Vee.

I am reading...about how to start a successful blog in seven days. There might be a few changes around the blog.

I am hoping...for a smooth transition next week as I start a new chapter in my employment journey and start a new part-time job at a Christian bookstore. I am also hoping that my kids take the change well. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

I am looking forward to...what the weekend holds.

I am hearing...the voices of children's TV programing and silent children. This break will be short lived but very welcome.

Around the house...I'm playing catch-up. I have quite a few things that have added up on my list of household to-do's and it's time to get them off the list. Dishes, laundry, bedroom organizing, bathroom cleaning, storage organizing...the list keeps going.

I am pondering...Missouri's Medicaid system. How is MO Healthnet coverage helping women when no doctor I have talked to this week (from the list the state of Missouri provides) takes it like Medicaid says they will? I still haven't found anyone that will take it and let me make an appointment.

One of my favorite things...the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. I record it and watch it at breakfast. It brightens my day.

A few plans for the rest of the week...I have errands to run today so I can pay bills (fun!), keeping cool, finishing a few projects on my desk that I keep meaning to get to, having some good quality play time with the kidos

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...I got these purse handles for a steal several months ago and I have yet to do something with them.  Any ideas?


 

Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, June 24, 2011

Outside my window...We have been blessed with nice sunny days this week that weren't too hot to stand to be outside.  We haven't seen the ducks that have taken to the back yard in a few days so I am keeping my fingers crossed that they haven't relocated for the season. 

I am thinking...about business building, goals and future plans

I am thankful for...time spent with my children.

I am wearing...my sunkist soda shirt and black shorts.  I decided today was going to be a comfy day. 

I am remembering...when life seemed to be simpler and adult responsibilities seemed a long way off. 

I am currently reading...Have you heard of Goodreads?  It's one of my favorite ways to track the books I read and from my last update you will see that I haven't read much of anything in the form of a book for awhile.  Are you finding time for summer reading?   

I am hoping...for a magic wand or a gene with three wishes for me.  I'll keep you posted. 

On my mind...Just trying to keep my mind organized and focused.  I need to keep my eyes on the prize.   
Noticing that...my list of things to work on keeps getting bigger and bigger. 

Pondering these words...Keep on the sunny side!




From the kitchen...We had taco salad and tacos for dinner last night.  I tried my hand at making shredded chicken tacos using the crock pot.  It turned out pretty good so I was told.  Recipe to come.
Around the house...My daughter is being silly in the living room while others are trying to watch a movie.  My son is sleeping peacefully in the bedroom and I am getting a few mintues here to write. 
One of my favorite things...The smell of tomatoes on my hands after tending the vegetable garden. 

From my camera...we had a nice time at our annual church picnic this month.  I was able to get a couple nice pictures of the kids and enjoy some nice fellowship.  The classic kids games like sack races and the egg toss were also a lot of fun. 


 
Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, May 20, 2011

Outside my window...An amazingly rainy, grey day.  When I woke up this morning I honestly wondered if it was still night, it was that dark outside.  So, much for getting out and checking on the garden. 

I am thinking...that there is so much to do and so little time to do it in. 

I am thankful for...different perspectives and the opportunity to learn.  

I am wearing...classic black (Did you have to ask?)
I am remembering...how optimistic and driven I was in my teens.  I was told much later by a good friend of mine how amazed they were that I did all the stuff I did and didn't have a major breakdown from all the stress.  Part of me wishes they had told me that sooner and part of me thinks that I wouldn't have listened anyway.  I always felt that what I was doing was what I was supposed to be doing and that I was no different from anyone else.  I have since learned that was not the case.    

I am currently reading...Online materials for internet marketing.  Fun, I know but something that I have been wanting to learn more about for some time now.  I'm excited about putting it into practice.

I am hoping...for a very large personal miracle or maybe a big billboard like sign that I am on the right path.   
On my mind...We are full swing into our months of birthdays.  I celebrated mine in April.  My husband will celebrate his later this month.  My youngest son will be turning two in June and my oldest, Madi will be 5 in August.  My husband has joked that we need to have one more child that will be born in July to finish the trend of monthly birthday celebrations.  He is quite the kidder.   

Noticing that...I'm feeling sentimental lately.  I'm at a cross roads in my life and my career that has left me thinking about the past.  Sometimes I am amazed at how far I have come and other times I worry that I haven't done enough.  I guess being so close to 30 years old will do that to a person.   

Pondering these words...I wake up to this song as my alarm clock every morning. 




From the kitchen...Last night we had spaghetti and turkey meatballs or veggie burger with garlic bread and it was mighty tasty.  So tasty in fact that I think we are having spaghetti again for lunch today. 

Around the house...just too many things that need to get done.  I have organizing to do and basic cleaning.  Since we have been sick so much this month I haven't had the energy or the will to do a lot of anything.  This weekend I should be able to catch up a little.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed. 

One of my favorite things...pasta and lots of it! 

From my camera...Next week I have plans to share more of our summer gardening adventure so here is a sneak peak.  I love the graphic nature of these two intertwining garden hoses.  I believe we got them straightened back out for now.


Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, April 15, 2011

Outside my window...Another wet and gray spring day.  Things are really starting to get green around here and the bulbs are out in full force. 

I am thinking...that I desperately need a hair cut and I'm going to treat myself to one as soon as I can get there.  Madi needs one, too and so does Oli.  This would be his first.

I am thankful for...My heart is heavy today and it's hard to find something that I am thankful for without sounding fake and not sincere.  I could be thankful for the chocolate treat I just found in the kitchen...     

I am wearing...basic black.  It's comfortable and flattering.  What can I say?

I am remembering...how I like to have things organized and the way that I like to keep house.  It's hard to be yourself when you are keeping up someone else's house.   

I am currently reading...my husband's fantastic birthday present, the most recent book in the Clan of the Cave Bear Series by Jean Auel entitled, "The Land of Painted Caves: A Novel".  We have been waiting for this book for quite a few years now and it finally made it this spring to book stores.  I also got the hardcover edition of the first book of the series since that was the only one I didn't have in hardback.  I'm enjoying getting back into the story. 

I am hoping...for a bright and sunny weekend.  I would like to get out and enjoy some good weather.  But when all else fails there is a mall with a kids play place. 

On my mind...Taxes and Houses.  I have more calls to make and numbers to crunch.

Noticing that...I should probably be getting to bed earlier than I do. 

Pondering these words..."Chasing Pavements" by Adele has been in my head all day today.




From the kitchen...thinking about Easter dinner plans.  I am thinking about serving a crock pot chicken with mashed red potatoes and stuffed flounder.  The dessert should be something with berries I'm thinking.  I'm still a bit undecided. 
Around the house...Easter ideas are taking shape.  I have a couple of Easter baskets to plan and get the items for.  This is going to be fun!
One of my favorite things...a quiet house with no screaming kids and everything is peaceful.  I'm enjoying that right now.  I know it won't last long. 

From my camera... This is a glimpse into the Spring Walk I had with the kids this week.  You will see more great colors of Spring in Monday's Mosaic.  Aren't these tulips lovely?   

Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, March 25, 2011

Outside my window...Mother nature is playing a cruel trick on us.  The world feels like winter again.  Where did spring go? 

I am thinking...that my son needs to learn to talk soon or express himself better because I don't think I can take another morning like this one.  He screamed and hated the world for over and hour.  It all started when he refused to sit in his high chair for breakfast.  I was planning on taking everyone out today to stroll around Target but that just wasn't possible.

I am thankful for...sympathetic ears.

I am wearing...my pj's still since I haven't had time to get dressed yet due to this morning's chaos.  

I am remembering...yesterday and the amazing mix-up with my Cricket phone provider who lost my payment that was made on time and turned our phones off yesterday.  I didn't figure this out until half the morning was over.  It took three calls to Cricket, two calls to my bank, a call to my friend Ericka to see if I had three way calling and a hour and half of my time that I won't get back.  Luckily no one tried to call my husband that morning for work related stuff.    

I am currently reading...Still working on Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace... One School at a Time .  I haven't had much to time to read in the past week and I managed to hid my book in a pile of stuff I wanted to look at and couldn't find it for a few days.  

I am hoping...for some relief.  I am feeling pretty weary today.

On my mind...all the stuff mentioned above and then some.  It seems like too much of a list to write down and in the scheme of things some of the stuff my mind is processing seems so trivial.  All I can say is that it could be worse.

Noticing that...I'm not afraid to wear a bright pink shirt with my standard black pants.  
 
Pondering these words...
"Gratefulness is the key to a happy life that we hold in our hands, because if we are not grateful, then no matter how much we have we will not be happy -- because we will always want to have something else or something more."
- David Steindl-Rast
From the kitchen...I made some yummy smelling vegetable marinara sauce in the crock pot yesterday that I need to finish today.  I will be baking stuffed shells or manicoti with it today for dinner.  Add a nice salad and some crusty garlic bread and I will be set.

Around the house...Working on decorating for Easter and spring.  We colored eggs last weekend and plan to do another dozen or so closer to the Easter holiday.  Our Easter tree is beginning to take shape in my mind.  Now I just have to get to the execution of the idea. 

One of my favorite things...clean underwear when you thought you had none.
 
From my camera...I have decided I would like a lawn gnome in my next garden.  I would love to find one that looks like the gnome in the movie Amelie.  That movie is one of my favorites!  So, I'm shopping around to find the perfect one.  Here's a picture I took of one at our local Hy-Vee store.  He's kinda cute don't you think?

Cute Hy-Vee Gnome


Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, March 18, 2011

Outside my window...Today was just beautiful!  I made sure that the kids and I got outside to enjoy it. 

I am thinking...about the future and what it's going to take to make our family's dreams a reality.  It's time to really focus and get things done.

I am thankful for...the time I have had the last few days to spend with my husband.  Sometimes we only get a few minutes but it reminds me each time how important we are to each other.  It's much needed connection time.  

I am wearing...Comfy PJ's 

I am remembering...that I should be in bed right now but I realized that I forgot to make this post.  :-)

I am currently reading...Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace... One School at a Time   It's on the United Methodist Woman's Reading list and I have been meaning to read it for awhile now.  I just got started to I'll keep you posted.

I am hoping...for easy answers to tough problems. 

On my mind...How I can make more time in my day.  I just need a few more hours added to each day to get things done.  I know that's impossible but it's fun to dream every once in awhile.  Then I jump back to reality and continue to try to figure out how I can streamline my days so I can get what I need to get accomplished completed.

Noticing that...I love peace and quiet and I miss meditating and practicing yoga. 

Pondering these words...

"Have courage for the great sorrows of life and patience for the small ones; and when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake."


From the kitchen...I did some baking today.  I made a mint chocolate cake, raspberry mini muffins and oatmeal raisin walnut carrot bars.  I am planning on bringing some to a meeting at church tomorrow.

Around the house...There was a lot of laughter today which I think we all needed.

One of my favorite things...all the lovely free printables on the web these days.  There are too many to name here but I hope to share the ones I find and how I use them in future posts.

From my camera...I don't have the patience right now to get the pictures I have taken off my camera and organized right now so I will leave you with a picture that I found while looking for pictures of crosses for my weekly Lenten Devotional on my other blog the Elliott Music Studio.  Enjoy!
stock.xchng


Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, March 4, 2011

Outside my window...It was a thunderously gray rainy day today.  We never ventured out.  I am so glad that we got out of the house for a little while yesterday and enjoyed the warm, sunny weather. 

I am thinking...about my son who is battling some kind of sickness today.  I won't get into details but I have changed quite a few diapers today and he has been running a mild fever.  My boy is just not himself and not feeling good. 
 
I am thankful for...diapers and disposable baby wipes.  I can't imagine getting through this day in particular without them.  

I am wearing...the same clothes I slept in.  They were just so comfortable and I haven't had much time to change since I woke up to my sick son this morning. 

I am remembering...times when I was sick and not feeling well as a child.  My mother would put a sheet to cover the couch and I would camp out there surrounded by all the stuff I needed.  It was nice to be in the center of it all and still able to rest when I needed to.  Being sick can be so isolating. 

I am currently reading...I just finished a very thought provoking book called "The Shack" by William P. Young.  My grandmother had highly recommended it and I was able to borrow a copy to read.  I'm still pondering all the ideas in this book.  It's a great read that could easily be reread several times for study.

I am hoping...for a better day tomorrow and a good dose of health all around. 

On my mind...getting my son well; my more organized electronic to-do list that I have been working on this week and that has helped keep me focused all week; how to help my daughter have more confidence in her potty training.

Noticing that...God has given me the strength to get through this day and I am grateful. 

Pondering these words...
 
"The act of putting pen to paper encourages pause for thought, this in turn makes us think more deeply about life, which helps us regain our equilibrium."
  ~Norbet Platt


From the kitchen...last night I made mushroom stroganoff with egg noodles and green beans.  It's one of my favorite comfort foods.  Once I get the recipe written down I plan on sharing.  Today was a lazy pizza day at my husbands request and suggestion so I enjoyed some pineapple cheese pizza.  

Around the house...just keeping up with it all and trying not to get too overwhelmed today.  My son has needed me to hold him so much today that not a lot was accomplished in the house cleaning area.  I did get one load in the dishwasher washing, some laundry going and the trash taken out.  More tomorrow for sure.

One of my favorite things...cuddly blankets and pillows.  They have helped make today so much more comfortable and soothing.

From my camera...I took a couple shots of some of the neat Valentine's paper goods that my local Hy-Vee had on display last month.  I love the patterns and the color combinations.   



Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Saturday, February 12, 2011

Outside my window...The world is finally starting to thaw but we are still covered in the white stuff. 

I am thinking...I am hoping that I feel better soon so that I can enjoy this nice warm-up.  The kids and I have contracted an amazing chest cough.  I am feeling crappy to say the least.  I better go wash my hands for the millionth time today. 

I am thankful for...facial tissues.  They are awesome!

I am wearing...my pj's.  I am contemplating getting dressed though.  It could happen today.  But then again it's not like I'm leaving my house anytime soon so why bother.

I am remembering...that this too will pass.

I am currently reading...my new Martha Stewart Living Magazine as well as my Family Circle

I am hoping...for some congestion relief and a good nights sleep.  I have to get up early tomorrow and sing during worship at church.  We will see...

On my mind...ways to keep my kids comfortable while we suffer with this cold. 

Noticing that...we are quite irritable and my usually patient self is not doing so well.  I am running low on patience.  I'm also depressed and amazingly bored.  There are things to do around here but I just don't have the energy to do any of it.  Maybe tomorrow... 

Pondering these words...
 
"If I had my way I'd make health catching instead of disease."
  ~Robert Ingersoll
 
From the kitchen...nothing profound or awesome.  I made chinese last night with a lot of help from the frozen foods at Aldi's.  I am thinking tonight is going to be submarine sandwiches and maybe soup.  I just can't seem to get motivated to cook much and I need to go to the store and get all the stuff I couldn't the last time.  That would involve getting dressed and leaving the house.  Two things I haven't done much of in the last two days.  

Around the house...just barely doing enough so I can stand hanging around in it to be honest.  I need to take out the trash and vaccum all the floors but my energy level sucks.  Luckily nothing smells.  That's a bonus right now.

One of my favorite things... socks when my feet are cold and comfy, black lounge clothes.

From my camera... I took a few pictures from my cricket android phonerecently.  I need to find the charging cable for my other camera so I can get a few more pictures transfered.  Maybe the house elves will help me locate it.  
 
Love Birds

Tunic & Cardigan I am considering from Lane Bryant 

Heart Shaped Conversation Heart Wreath



Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, January 21, 2011

Outside my window...tons of snow. I mean TONS! Oh, and I just looked up and it's snowing again. I'm not kidding.

I am thinking...about my friends. So many of us had a really hard year last year and 2011 isn't getting any easier. I can't wait until we all can catch a break for awhile. It would be nice.

I am thankful for...all my family's blessings. We are a blessed people.

I am wearing...Jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt. Just right for a cozy day at home.

I am remembering...Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy. What a remarkable man.

I am currently reading...I just finished reading "Home is Always the Place You Just Left: A Memoir of Restless Longing and Persistent Grace" by Betty Smartt Carter. I appreciated her candor about her faith journey. It's a quick and interesting read. I am also reading "Living the Simple Life" by Elaine St. James

I am hoping...for a break in this snow. I am ready for warmer temperatures.

On my mind...the future and the many things I want to accomplish in my life. I am making a plan to start accomplishing some of those goals.

Noticing that...if I am patient and continue to work routine into our day both me and my children continue to thrive and there are more moments of peace. I was able to get practice time at the piano for the last two days and that has been such a struggle before.

Pondering these words...

"Faith is taking the first step even when you can't see the whole staircase."
Martin Luther King Jr.

From the kitchen...I had a bag of baking potatoes that I needed to figure out what to do with so I decided to make potato corn chowder last night for dinner. It was a bit spicy because I let Madi help in the kitchen last night and she put in the green tabasco sauce. Madi also rolled the cresent rolls all by herself and we baked them together. She was so proud of her work that before we all got to the table for dinner she was passing them out for people to taste.

Around the house...I finally go the table cleaned off in the kitchen for lunch today. That lasted less than 10 minutes but I still feel a sense of accomplishment. Now on to vaccuming the floors and if I get really adventurous I will attempt some snow removal.

One of my favorite things...blue corn chips with guacamole. I have eaten a little bit of it everyday this week.

From my camera... a picture of Madi and Oli that I took towards the end of 2010. I have taken pictures since then but none are off the camera and organized. Maybe that is something to tackle on tomorrow's to-do list...





Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.