Without knowing it, my Mom gave me the best Christmas present ever....two years ago. She gave my two sisters and I each a Family Recipe Book. It is so cool. It's divided into sections like a regular recipe book, but ther are fancy pages for you to write in your family's favorite recipes. There are also cards, pages with pockets, space to write in notes, and clear pages for photo's. There are also clear full sheets that you can use to put scrapbook pages in.
If you are crafty, or even if you aren't, this is a great family project that you can keep adding to over the years and eventually pass down to your kids or grandkids.
Over the last two years I've added alot of recipes. Just recently, I started taking pictures of different foods when I make them with the intention of adding them to my recipe blog and then getting prints made to add to my family cookbook.
My girls are very craft and I started thinking that we should turn it into a scrapbooking project. I have all the supplies, I just need to print the pictures and start adding to our book. Snapfish has specials all the time where you get free photo's and sometimes free shipping. So, that's my project for tomorrow....to get all the prints sent to me that I haven't printed yet. I love to take pictures but I haven't been good about getting them printed. I even put a reminder in the calendar of my phone to go off tomorrow so I don't forget.
I forgot to say, when I put a recipe in my book, I make a note that tells us who's recipe it is, and if it's one of our favorites, I note that too. Chicky and I are all excited to start working on it. I've always liked to scrapbook, but now we're going to attend to our family recipe book.
I have no idea where my mom found these books. I wish that I had a couple more. I would save them and give them to my girls when they got married so they could put one together with their families. With that in mind I started thinking....I don't really need this particular one.
Way back when I first moved out of my parents house, I bought a $2.00 white folder (a 1" plastic) that has the clear plastic pocket on the front and back. I typed a paper that said "recipes" on it and then I filled it with those clear pages that you can fill with full sized peices of paper. I had handwritten recipes, typed, and ones I cut out of magazines. I'm thinking I can use this same idea to make Family Recipe Books for my girls.
You can find the folders at Walmart for a couple dollars and then you just need the clear plastic pages to put your papers into. I guess you could even use a paper punch and use card stock to make regular pages as well. I'm not sure where the best prices are on the pages, but I know you can find them at Walmart, Staples, and even in the scrapbook aisles at Hobby Lobby.
You can use markers, paint, and stickers to decorate your pages. Add pictures of your favorite foods. The recipe for my sugar cookies....I used a photo of Sami and my mom making them.
If your kids enjoy cooking, this is a fantastic gift that you can give them that you have made together. I've added recpies to mine that we all love and I know that my kids will enjoy the book when they get older and start cooking with their little ones.
Until next time.....
Friday, December 30, 2011
Thursday, December 29, 2011
It's Family Night
When my oldest two children were young, we started having a "Family Night" a couple of times a month. We would get our PJ's on, get out blankets and pillows and make popcorn. Then we would pick out a movie that we all love. A fantastic family night.
I think the kids loved Family Night the most when we would have snacks and play games. We bought Pictionary Kids and they really enjoyed playing that. We had checkers and chinese checkers, but the Pictionary game was their favorite.
The kids started getting older and we had fewer and fewer family nights. It's really sad when you think about it. Families get so busy that they forget to spend time together and enjoy each other. Before you know it, your children have grown up into teenagers and spending time with mom and dad isn't very high on their priority list.
Well, Scott and I have been blessed enough to have two more children. So, we've been able to enjoy all the fun things that go with having young children in the house....for a second time. We've started having family night again. It's not as often as I'd like, but we try to squeeze it in where we can.
Last week we all got into comfy clothes and got out warm blankets. We made up goodie plates with salami, hunters saugsage, cheese, crackers, cashews and such....and we watched two of our favorite Christmas movies. We had a great time, and it gives our kids some really nice memories that they'll think about when they are grown up and have kids of their own.
Last night, we had family night on a smaller scale. John got this large pad of paper that is sort of like a "Where's Waldo" sort of thing but it's all Christmas. The pages are huge, and there are two lists. One is made of pictures of items to be found (for younger kids) and the other list has about 30 things to find within the pictures. So, Jourdan, John, Sami and I spent a couple of hours at the diningroom table looking for Christmas items. We had hot chocolate and lots of giggles. By the end of the evening, both of the younger kids were on my lap in search of Santa.
Life goes by so quickly. It seems that just yesterday Jason was a little boy going to kindergarden. Now, he's a sophomore in college! Where did the time go? I think it goes faster once you have children! My dad told me that a very long time ago...and I think he was right. Now, I'm trying to not let the days go by so fast....to stop and take the time to enjoy spending time with my kids. We don't know how long we'll be here...so don't take your time for granted.
There are all kinds of fun things to do together as a family. I LOVE to do crafts. I could spend hours down in my craft room sewing or painting. Jourdan and Sami are the same way. As a matter of fact, I spent about an hour down there tonight cleaning up from the last time Sami "helped" me in the craft room. haha
It's worth it though. She'll have those memories her whole life...and so will I.
I think the kids loved Family Night the most when we would have snacks and play games. We bought Pictionary Kids and they really enjoyed playing that. We had checkers and chinese checkers, but the Pictionary game was their favorite.
The kids started getting older and we had fewer and fewer family nights. It's really sad when you think about it. Families get so busy that they forget to spend time together and enjoy each other. Before you know it, your children have grown up into teenagers and spending time with mom and dad isn't very high on their priority list.
Well, Scott and I have been blessed enough to have two more children. So, we've been able to enjoy all the fun things that go with having young children in the house....for a second time. We've started having family night again. It's not as often as I'd like, but we try to squeeze it in where we can.
Last week we all got into comfy clothes and got out warm blankets. We made up goodie plates with salami, hunters saugsage, cheese, crackers, cashews and such....and we watched two of our favorite Christmas movies. We had a great time, and it gives our kids some really nice memories that they'll think about when they are grown up and have kids of their own.
Last night, we had family night on a smaller scale. John got this large pad of paper that is sort of like a "Where's Waldo" sort of thing but it's all Christmas. The pages are huge, and there are two lists. One is made of pictures of items to be found (for younger kids) and the other list has about 30 things to find within the pictures. So, Jourdan, John, Sami and I spent a couple of hours at the diningroom table looking for Christmas items. We had hot chocolate and lots of giggles. By the end of the evening, both of the younger kids were on my lap in search of Santa.
Life goes by so quickly. It seems that just yesterday Jason was a little boy going to kindergarden. Now, he's a sophomore in college! Where did the time go? I think it goes faster once you have children! My dad told me that a very long time ago...and I think he was right. Now, I'm trying to not let the days go by so fast....to stop and take the time to enjoy spending time with my kids. We don't know how long we'll be here...so don't take your time for granted.
There are all kinds of fun things to do together as a family. I LOVE to do crafts. I could spend hours down in my craft room sewing or painting. Jourdan and Sami are the same way. As a matter of fact, I spent about an hour down there tonight cleaning up from the last time Sami "helped" me in the craft room. haha
It's worth it though. She'll have those memories her whole life...and so will I.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
A New Direction?
I've been thinking alot about the direction of my blog. I started it a long time ago in an effort to reach out to other people who were dieting and struggling with food and excersize. I was looking for a way to challenge myself and make myself accountable to YOU!
Well, two years have passed and I weigh about 10 pounds less than I did when I started writing. I've let 2 years go by without much change...weight wise. My blog turned into a place I could come to bitch about something, or to share happiness I was feeling at the moment. It turned into mini therapy sessions. It always feels good to get stressful things off your chest.
I don't know if you've noticed or not, but I have changed. I've written many times about being in therapy. Well, it's working because I feel really good...mentally. Oh I have my bumps in the road, but I feel so much better these days and I'm learning how to deal with the ups and downs that everyone experiences in life. Life isn't perfect, but I am thankful for what I have. A wonderful husband and 4 beautiful children. We are healthy, have a roof over our heads, and food in the cupboards.
Back to the beginning of my post. I've been thinking about what direction I should take here. I could keep on winging it or I could try to find a way to reach out to someone. I'm not sure yet, but I know that something good will come to me. I have a blog attached to this one for posting recipees. I love that blog, it's full of good yummy stuff. I was hoping to have some followers, but I haven't given it enough attention. I'm going to work on that.
For now, I'll give you an update on what's happening in our household. My husbands employer has a Biggest Loser type of contest that will start on January 3rd. It will last for....8 or 10 weeks I believe. Well Scott won it two years ago along with almost $500. We're just around the corner from this contest starting. It is a little different than the show, nobody gets eliminated. The winner will get a nice bundle of cash at the end.....AND they've decided to sign up for a 5K run that takes place in April.
This is where it gets interesting. Scott and I have been talking strategy for his contest. I've been wanting to get into better shape. I've been talking alot about it in therapy....my emotional eating and boredom eating. I'm doing better at controlling those things. And if I can work out with Scott and plan meals together, it'll be better for both of us.
I've been a little scared about my health lately. I'm 42 years old and I need to lose about 35 or 40 pounds. Seems like a huge number, one that has scared me. I feel like it's such a big number I don't know if I could succeed. But about a week ago I started having blurry vision and terrible headaches. I went to see my doctor and my blood pressure was 145/105. They had me lay down for a while and took it again...and it was even worse.
So I'm sitting there in the little room knowing that my blood pressure is ridiculous high, I'm on the edge of diabetes, I have high triglycerides, I'm 42 years old and I need to lose weight. The blood pressure really scared me. I have young children, and it scared me to think that if I didn't get this under control I could have a stroke or a heart attack.
I want to live a good long time and see my grandkids and their kids. To do that, I need to be healthy. So, that's the boat I'm in. Scott's contest comes at a perfect time.
I've been watching Biggest Loser this season and even though I can't stand the guy who won (John) it really got me thinking about excersize and how I wanted to get into shape. I had also decided that I want to run in a 5K run. I don't know when or where but I want to do that. I've got this in the back of my mind and about a week later Scott tells me that a bunch of guys who are doing this contest have talked him into doing this 5K run in Greenville.
No way! I've been thinking about a 5K run for a couple weeks. So, that's what we are going to do. It's in April so I have almost 4 months to get ready. I know what you're thinking, a 5K run isn't much. But to a person who doesn't even want to WALK 5k it's a big deal to think that I might actually be able to jog one. So, I talked to a friend of mine who lives and breathes excersize and being healthy and she gave me some great advice to get to my goal. Now, I just have to do the work.
I'm so sick of feeling like hell. My blood pressure is freaking me out because it's something a person doesn't normally feel. It's not like you have pain with it....unless it's screaming high and you have blurry vision and headaches. Not a good thing. And I just generally feel crappy this week. I think it's all tied in.
So, that's my big news. I'm sure I'll be updating on my progress. I'm sure it'll be embarassing at first, but if I can make it to my goal and lose 35 pounds by the end of April...then finish the 5K run....I'll be proud.
Until next time.....
Well, two years have passed and I weigh about 10 pounds less than I did when I started writing. I've let 2 years go by without much change...weight wise. My blog turned into a place I could come to bitch about something, or to share happiness I was feeling at the moment. It turned into mini therapy sessions. It always feels good to get stressful things off your chest.
I don't know if you've noticed or not, but I have changed. I've written many times about being in therapy. Well, it's working because I feel really good...mentally. Oh I have my bumps in the road, but I feel so much better these days and I'm learning how to deal with the ups and downs that everyone experiences in life. Life isn't perfect, but I am thankful for what I have. A wonderful husband and 4 beautiful children. We are healthy, have a roof over our heads, and food in the cupboards.
Back to the beginning of my post. I've been thinking about what direction I should take here. I could keep on winging it or I could try to find a way to reach out to someone. I'm not sure yet, but I know that something good will come to me. I have a blog attached to this one for posting recipees. I love that blog, it's full of good yummy stuff. I was hoping to have some followers, but I haven't given it enough attention. I'm going to work on that.
For now, I'll give you an update on what's happening in our household. My husbands employer has a Biggest Loser type of contest that will start on January 3rd. It will last for....8 or 10 weeks I believe. Well Scott won it two years ago along with almost $500. We're just around the corner from this contest starting. It is a little different than the show, nobody gets eliminated. The winner will get a nice bundle of cash at the end.....AND they've decided to sign up for a 5K run that takes place in April.
This is where it gets interesting. Scott and I have been talking strategy for his contest. I've been wanting to get into better shape. I've been talking alot about it in therapy....my emotional eating and boredom eating. I'm doing better at controlling those things. And if I can work out with Scott and plan meals together, it'll be better for both of us.
I've been a little scared about my health lately. I'm 42 years old and I need to lose about 35 or 40 pounds. Seems like a huge number, one that has scared me. I feel like it's such a big number I don't know if I could succeed. But about a week ago I started having blurry vision and terrible headaches. I went to see my doctor and my blood pressure was 145/105. They had me lay down for a while and took it again...and it was even worse.
So I'm sitting there in the little room knowing that my blood pressure is ridiculous high, I'm on the edge of diabetes, I have high triglycerides, I'm 42 years old and I need to lose weight. The blood pressure really scared me. I have young children, and it scared me to think that if I didn't get this under control I could have a stroke or a heart attack.
I want to live a good long time and see my grandkids and their kids. To do that, I need to be healthy. So, that's the boat I'm in. Scott's contest comes at a perfect time.
I've been watching Biggest Loser this season and even though I can't stand the guy who won (John) it really got me thinking about excersize and how I wanted to get into shape. I had also decided that I want to run in a 5K run. I don't know when or where but I want to do that. I've got this in the back of my mind and about a week later Scott tells me that a bunch of guys who are doing this contest have talked him into doing this 5K run in Greenville.
No way! I've been thinking about a 5K run for a couple weeks. So, that's what we are going to do. It's in April so I have almost 4 months to get ready. I know what you're thinking, a 5K run isn't much. But to a person who doesn't even want to WALK 5k it's a big deal to think that I might actually be able to jog one. So, I talked to a friend of mine who lives and breathes excersize and being healthy and she gave me some great advice to get to my goal. Now, I just have to do the work.
I'm so sick of feeling like hell. My blood pressure is freaking me out because it's something a person doesn't normally feel. It's not like you have pain with it....unless it's screaming high and you have blurry vision and headaches. Not a good thing. And I just generally feel crappy this week. I think it's all tied in.
So, that's my big news. I'm sure I'll be updating on my progress. I'm sure it'll be embarassing at first, but if I can make it to my goal and lose 35 pounds by the end of April...then finish the 5K run....I'll be proud.
Until next time.....
Sunday, December 11, 2011
To Send....Or Not To Send....Christmas Cards
I was shopping at Costco about a month ago and I was wandering up and down the Christmas aisles. (Big shock there, right?) Anyhow, I came up to the Christmas card display. Have you ever seen the Christmas cards at Costco? They are GORGEOUS! They aren't the cheapo cards either...they all have glitter and foil writing. I stood there looking at them and decided that I would mail Christmas cards to our friends and family this year.
I almost always buys cards to mail in December. Sometimes I fill them out and they never get sent. A friend of mine said the same thing happens to him. I did send them last year, and I got a few of them in the mail for our family too.
I love getting Christmas cards. There is just something so exciting about opening the mailbox and seeing those big envolopes just waiting for you. The kids argue over who gets to open the cards. They love cards too, I guess.
After we open the cards we read them and pass them around the table. The we tape them up in the doorway to our livingroom. They turn into the best Christmas decorations in our home. This year our new house is set up a little different, but we'll make it work. I sent out cards on Friday and I started wondering if many people even send them anymore.
I've gotten e-cards.....but only one lonely card by mail. And that was from my Chiropractor, lol! I even went to my Facebook friends and asked them if they sent Christmas cards by mail anymore? I had quite a few responses and for the most part I discovered that folks are still sending out cards by mail. I also discovered that people LOVE getting Christmas cards in the mail. One of my friends even commented on how it's nice to get something other than bills in the mail. I totally agree! :)
When I was first thinking about our lack of cards I thought....e-cards, internet, facebook, text messaging....nobody has to send an actual card. We stay in close touch with all this modern technology. I've changed my mind on that opinion. I think that for most people, it comes down to money.
I don't think that it's the cost of the cards, they are on sale for 50% off at Hobby Lobby all the time. I feel like it's probably the cost of postage. It costs 44 cents for a first class stamp. The cards I chose were large, so I was worried that one stamp wouldn't cover the postage to mail them. But, I was ok...except the ones I added photo's to.
Isn't it strange how the post office just keeps on raising the cost of postage because they are so broke.....but then people don't want to pay almost 50 cents to mail a darn envelope! So, we pay our bills online, we send email and text messages, and we send ecards.
With all that said, I'm glad to see on my Facebook survey that people still like to send Christmas cards by mail. I guess we just aren't doing it every single year....sometimes there are things we need to spend money on more than postage. This girl still likes to get the cards in the mail too, but I understand if people are cutting back.
Until next time.....Happy Holidays!
I almost always buys cards to mail in December. Sometimes I fill them out and they never get sent. A friend of mine said the same thing happens to him. I did send them last year, and I got a few of them in the mail for our family too.
I love getting Christmas cards. There is just something so exciting about opening the mailbox and seeing those big envolopes just waiting for you. The kids argue over who gets to open the cards. They love cards too, I guess.
After we open the cards we read them and pass them around the table. The we tape them up in the doorway to our livingroom. They turn into the best Christmas decorations in our home. This year our new house is set up a little different, but we'll make it work. I sent out cards on Friday and I started wondering if many people even send them anymore.
I've gotten e-cards.....but only one lonely card by mail. And that was from my Chiropractor, lol! I even went to my Facebook friends and asked them if they sent Christmas cards by mail anymore? I had quite a few responses and for the most part I discovered that folks are still sending out cards by mail. I also discovered that people LOVE getting Christmas cards in the mail. One of my friends even commented on how it's nice to get something other than bills in the mail. I totally agree! :)
When I was first thinking about our lack of cards I thought....e-cards, internet, facebook, text messaging....nobody has to send an actual card. We stay in close touch with all this modern technology. I've changed my mind on that opinion. I think that for most people, it comes down to money.
I don't think that it's the cost of the cards, they are on sale for 50% off at Hobby Lobby all the time. I feel like it's probably the cost of postage. It costs 44 cents for a first class stamp. The cards I chose were large, so I was worried that one stamp wouldn't cover the postage to mail them. But, I was ok...except the ones I added photo's to.
Isn't it strange how the post office just keeps on raising the cost of postage because they are so broke.....but then people don't want to pay almost 50 cents to mail a darn envelope! So, we pay our bills online, we send email and text messages, and we send ecards.
With all that said, I'm glad to see on my Facebook survey that people still like to send Christmas cards by mail. I guess we just aren't doing it every single year....sometimes there are things we need to spend money on more than postage. This girl still likes to get the cards in the mail too, but I understand if people are cutting back.
Until next time.....Happy Holidays!
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Adopt A Soldier
I was on my Facebook page earlier this week and a friend of mine posted that she'd adopted a soldier. She was looking for a used digital camera to send to him....it was on his wish list. Someone withing her Facebook family offered up a camera that they weren't using anymore and now it'll be sent off with other goodies to her adopted soldier.
I've thought about doing this very thing for several years. I just didn't know how. There are several websites that you can find addresses to contact soldiers. I've tried the last two years but I never heard back from the soldier that I'd contacted. I basically lost hope that I would ever be able to adopt a soldier.
Well, I asked my friend if she could ask her soldier if there was someone else who might want to have an adopted family? She forwarded me a soldiers name within a couple hours. I was so excited! I emailed the young man right away and within a short time I heard back from him.
By now I'm so excited I can't stand it. My soldiers name is Steven and he's 25 years old. We're just getting to know each other, but I have a feeling that he doesn't have much family. He lost his mom this year, but I don't know the details. Everyone needs a mom to care for them and send them goodies when they are overseas. I just keep thinking to myself, this young man is only a couple of years older than my son.
Anyhow, we've emailed back and forth a couple of times and all he really asked for was some soap and shampoo. I guess these are some of the things that are hard to get in Afghanistan. Well, Scott and I went shopping yesterday and bought two big bags of things to send to him. Including the soap and shampoo he requested.
I can't describe how happy it makes me to be able to write to someone and ask him how he's doing. To be able to send him a few things that might make his day a little better. Steven is an Apache helicopter mechanic. That is the coolest thing EVER! And even though I hardly know him, the mom in me worries about his safety.
I started thinking about these very young men and women who serve in the military. They are barely adults and they are serving our country in the most giving way possible. Some of them are giving their lives. I think you would be hard pressed to find a person who hasn't been touched by the war going on in Iraq or Afghanistan. Whether it's a family member, a friend, a friend of a friend, or a community member....we've all been touched by this war.
I'm not going anti-war on you. I think that the war on terror is so important to the safety of each and every one of us here in the United States. If we didn't have troops on the ground overseas, I feel like we would have alot more issues here at home. I'm so thankful for each and every service member who protects us every day!
I've thought about doing this very thing for several years. I just didn't know how. There are several websites that you can find addresses to contact soldiers. I've tried the last two years but I never heard back from the soldier that I'd contacted. I basically lost hope that I would ever be able to adopt a soldier.
Well, I asked my friend if she could ask her soldier if there was someone else who might want to have an adopted family? She forwarded me a soldiers name within a couple hours. I was so excited! I emailed the young man right away and within a short time I heard back from him.
By now I'm so excited I can't stand it. My soldiers name is Steven and he's 25 years old. We're just getting to know each other, but I have a feeling that he doesn't have much family. He lost his mom this year, but I don't know the details. Everyone needs a mom to care for them and send them goodies when they are overseas. I just keep thinking to myself, this young man is only a couple of years older than my son.
Anyhow, we've emailed back and forth a couple of times and all he really asked for was some soap and shampoo. I guess these are some of the things that are hard to get in Afghanistan. Well, Scott and I went shopping yesterday and bought two big bags of things to send to him. Including the soap and shampoo he requested.
I can't describe how happy it makes me to be able to write to someone and ask him how he's doing. To be able to send him a few things that might make his day a little better. Steven is an Apache helicopter mechanic. That is the coolest thing EVER! And even though I hardly know him, the mom in me worries about his safety.
I started thinking about these very young men and women who serve in the military. They are barely adults and they are serving our country in the most giving way possible. Some of them are giving their lives. I think you would be hard pressed to find a person who hasn't been touched by the war going on in Iraq or Afghanistan. Whether it's a family member, a friend, a friend of a friend, or a community member....we've all been touched by this war.
I'm not going anti-war on you. I think that the war on terror is so important to the safety of each and every one of us here in the United States. If we didn't have troops on the ground overseas, I feel like we would have alot more issues here at home. I'm so thankful for each and every service member who protects us every day!
Thursday, December 8, 2011
T.O.Y (Think Outside Yourself)
Think Outside Yourself
Star 105.7 becomes the Christmas station right around the first of December. I think I discovered them 2 years ago while I was driving back and forth to work. I drove 50 + miles a day so I had plenty of time to channel surf. Well, you know what a Christmas junkie I am, and it pours over into the music I like to listen to in December.
Anyhow, this radio station was encouraging people in West Michigan to remember the true spirit of Christmas and that it's better to give than to receive. Therefore, you "Think Outside Yourself". I remember listening to people calling in telling stories of how a complete stranger had done some nice thing for them. A big example they used was the next time you got into the drive thru at McDonalds to pay the bill for the car behind you, wishing them a Merry Christmas.
I thought, how sweet to do that for someone. I didn't know if anyone actually would, but it was a nice thought. You're probably hearing all the big woop-dee-doo right now about "Secret Santa's" paying off a person's lay-away at Kmart. I mean, it's all over the news right now.
Even in the toughest of times, people are reaching out to others and doing this generous thing for a stranger.
Tuesday Sami had preschool and we did our normal pick-up routine and she was starving, of course. We were walking out to the car and I was telling her we could have grilled cheese and tomato soup when we got home. Or we could have pizza. Well, she wanted a cheeseburger kids meal from McDonalds. At least they come with less fries now and a package of sliced apples. So, we went to the drive thru and placed our lunch order. When I got to the window to pay the cashier told me that the woman in front of me had paid my bill and to wish me a Merry Christmas.
Are you kidding me?
After I left the parking lot, I started to cry. I know that sounds silly but I was just so touched that a complete stranger had done such a kind thing for us. The cashier told me that this woman comes through the drive thru each day and pays the bill for the person behind her. I don't know who she is and I can't remember what she drove....but I'm thankful to her for showing me that there is kindness and generosity in this world. We're talking about a $5 meal here, but it's the thought that counts.
I decided today that the next time I go through the drive thru I'm going to pay the bill for the person behind me. It'll probably be a mini van with 15 little kids in it, or a football team....but I don't care. I want to pass on the feeling that I felt when someone did that for me.
Actually, you can find the radio staion online and listen to the continuous Christmas music. Not that you're Christmas crazy like I am....but maybe you are. Go to http://www.westmichiganstar.com/
I also discovered that they are granting wishes. You know, I heard them talking about it a week ago and I thought, "I'm going to write a letter and make a wish". But for what? I kept thinking....presents for my kids and my husband. Should I ask for something specific or should I ask for a specific amount of money so I can give my kids a FANTASTIC Christmas?
I couldn't decide. I thought about it for an entire week. I had to write a great letter to prove that I was deserving of one of these granted wishes. Then, it hit me. The day I was in the McDonalds drive thru and someone thought of me instead of herself....I realized what I needed to wish for.
I have a very dear friend. She lives in another state. I don't see her and we don't talk everyday.....but I think about her and her kids every single day. I think about them and I wonder how they are doing, and I hope that things are getting better for them. My friend is trying very hard to get back home. Through no fault of her own she has to live in a shelter with her 3 beautiful kids until she secures housing in MO. So that's my wish. That a place to rent is found and she can move back to Missouri....and take her kids back to their home. This is the wish that I asked for....for help for my friend who means so much to me. To be able to take her kids back home and be near their friends again...well it would be incredible! I don't know if my wish can be granted...but I'm keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for the best.
I think people get so caught up with their day to day life that they forget to enjoy it. Remember how I wrote the other day that I love the whole month of December and that I enjoyed all the holiday cheer right up to Christmas day? For alot of years, I had forgotten to enjoy it. I was worrying about money and making sure I could fit presents into my budget. I was so stressed about it that some years I didn't even do my usual holiday baking...and I already told you that I didn't get out my decorations one year.
I decided that I'm not going to do that this year. I haven't bought as many gifts for my kids as I have in the past. But I'm staying within my budget and I'm not going into debt for Christmas. Things could be so much worse for us....so I need to stop complaining and worrying about it, right? I decided that I'm going to enjoy it. I'm going to enjoy all the exciting things that go along with the holidays. My kids are just bouncing off the walls they are so excited.
This weekend I decided will be our baking weekend. We make about 10 different kinds of cookies, 3 different bars, candies, etc. Then I give a bunch away....otherwise I'd be like 300 pounds. haha Watching the kids cut out sugar cookies and then decorate them with frosting.....there's nothing like it in the world. I'm really looking forward to it this year.
Last, but not least, I wanted to mention that I adopted a soldier this year. I'm so excited because the young man I'm emailing back and forth only has a mom here in the US. He's 25 and doesn't really have anyone to write to or to send him goodies. That's where I come in.....I love to mom anyone who will let me. :)
Life is stressful and chaotic for everyone, but don't forget to slow down and enjoy the Christmas spirit that's floating around this time of year. We're planning a New Years Eve party...which will be so much fun. And don't forget to Think Outside Yourself. It doesn't have to even be something that will cost you money. Lend a hand to a neighbor, visit someone in a nursing home, or write letters to troops who aren't with their family right now.
Until next time.....hugs to all!
Star 105.7 becomes the Christmas station right around the first of December. I think I discovered them 2 years ago while I was driving back and forth to work. I drove 50 + miles a day so I had plenty of time to channel surf. Well, you know what a Christmas junkie I am, and it pours over into the music I like to listen to in December.
Anyhow, this radio station was encouraging people in West Michigan to remember the true spirit of Christmas and that it's better to give than to receive. Therefore, you "Think Outside Yourself". I remember listening to people calling in telling stories of how a complete stranger had done some nice thing for them. A big example they used was the next time you got into the drive thru at McDonalds to pay the bill for the car behind you, wishing them a Merry Christmas.
I thought, how sweet to do that for someone. I didn't know if anyone actually would, but it was a nice thought. You're probably hearing all the big woop-dee-doo right now about "Secret Santa's" paying off a person's lay-away at Kmart. I mean, it's all over the news right now.
Even in the toughest of times, people are reaching out to others and doing this generous thing for a stranger.
Tuesday Sami had preschool and we did our normal pick-up routine and she was starving, of course. We were walking out to the car and I was telling her we could have grilled cheese and tomato soup when we got home. Or we could have pizza. Well, she wanted a cheeseburger kids meal from McDonalds. At least they come with less fries now and a package of sliced apples. So, we went to the drive thru and placed our lunch order. When I got to the window to pay the cashier told me that the woman in front of me had paid my bill and to wish me a Merry Christmas.
Are you kidding me?
After I left the parking lot, I started to cry. I know that sounds silly but I was just so touched that a complete stranger had done such a kind thing for us. The cashier told me that this woman comes through the drive thru each day and pays the bill for the person behind her. I don't know who she is and I can't remember what she drove....but I'm thankful to her for showing me that there is kindness and generosity in this world. We're talking about a $5 meal here, but it's the thought that counts.
I decided today that the next time I go through the drive thru I'm going to pay the bill for the person behind me. It'll probably be a mini van with 15 little kids in it, or a football team....but I don't care. I want to pass on the feeling that I felt when someone did that for me.
Actually, you can find the radio staion online and listen to the continuous Christmas music. Not that you're Christmas crazy like I am....but maybe you are. Go to http://www.westmichiganstar.com/
I also discovered that they are granting wishes. You know, I heard them talking about it a week ago and I thought, "I'm going to write a letter and make a wish". But for what? I kept thinking....presents for my kids and my husband. Should I ask for something specific or should I ask for a specific amount of money so I can give my kids a FANTASTIC Christmas?
I couldn't decide. I thought about it for an entire week. I had to write a great letter to prove that I was deserving of one of these granted wishes. Then, it hit me. The day I was in the McDonalds drive thru and someone thought of me instead of herself....I realized what I needed to wish for.
I have a very dear friend. She lives in another state. I don't see her and we don't talk everyday.....but I think about her and her kids every single day. I think about them and I wonder how they are doing, and I hope that things are getting better for them. My friend is trying very hard to get back home. Through no fault of her own she has to live in a shelter with her 3 beautiful kids until she secures housing in MO. So that's my wish. That a place to rent is found and she can move back to Missouri....and take her kids back to their home. This is the wish that I asked for....for help for my friend who means so much to me. To be able to take her kids back home and be near their friends again...well it would be incredible! I don't know if my wish can be granted...but I'm keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for the best.
I think people get so caught up with their day to day life that they forget to enjoy it. Remember how I wrote the other day that I love the whole month of December and that I enjoyed all the holiday cheer right up to Christmas day? For alot of years, I had forgotten to enjoy it. I was worrying about money and making sure I could fit presents into my budget. I was so stressed about it that some years I didn't even do my usual holiday baking...and I already told you that I didn't get out my decorations one year.
I decided that I'm not going to do that this year. I haven't bought as many gifts for my kids as I have in the past. But I'm staying within my budget and I'm not going into debt for Christmas. Things could be so much worse for us....so I need to stop complaining and worrying about it, right? I decided that I'm going to enjoy it. I'm going to enjoy all the exciting things that go along with the holidays. My kids are just bouncing off the walls they are so excited.
This weekend I decided will be our baking weekend. We make about 10 different kinds of cookies, 3 different bars, candies, etc. Then I give a bunch away....otherwise I'd be like 300 pounds. haha Watching the kids cut out sugar cookies and then decorate them with frosting.....there's nothing like it in the world. I'm really looking forward to it this year.
Last, but not least, I wanted to mention that I adopted a soldier this year. I'm so excited because the young man I'm emailing back and forth only has a mom here in the US. He's 25 and doesn't really have anyone to write to or to send him goodies. That's where I come in.....I love to mom anyone who will let me. :)
Life is stressful and chaotic for everyone, but don't forget to slow down and enjoy the Christmas spirit that's floating around this time of year. We're planning a New Years Eve party...which will be so much fun. And don't forget to Think Outside Yourself. It doesn't have to even be something that will cost you money. Lend a hand to a neighbor, visit someone in a nursing home, or write letters to troops who aren't with their family right now.
Until next time.....hugs to all!
Monday, December 5, 2011
It's A Wonderful Life
I love Christmas movies. I'm sure you're shocked! The Christmas List, Undercover Christmas, Eve's Christmas, The Christmas Card, Carol Christmas, A Holiday Engagement, Holiday in Handcuffs, Unce Upon a Christmas, Twice Upon A Christmas....I could go on all day. And don't forget the classic Christmas cartoons.
I like to set my DVR to record them, then watch later because I hate commercials. My favorite time to watch holiday movies is when I'm wrapping Christmas presents. Well, to be honest I haven't wrapped a single present yet. I'm running a little bit behind schedule. Hasn't stopped me from watching most of the movies I've listed above.
I think Christmas movies go to the heart of my favorite kind of movie. I'm a romantic comedy kind of girl. And most of the movies I watch are about people falling in love during the holidays. They are about families and everyone coming home for Christmas. You might get a glimpse of the perfect family, and sometimes a not so perfect family.
Men are always romantic in Christmas movies. I have a great husband and I couldn't ask for a better partner in life, but he doesn't have a romantic bone in his body. I wonder if most men are that way? I have to believe they are....life is definitely not like the movies. Most of the time the parents in these movies have big fat wallets with gigantic houses. Not really reality either. But fitting for a great Christmas movie.
So, as I sit here watching "Eve's Christmas" I'll feel all warm and fuzzy over my holiday movie. And I look forward to watching many more during this month.
Until next time.....
I like to set my DVR to record them, then watch later because I hate commercials. My favorite time to watch holiday movies is when I'm wrapping Christmas presents. Well, to be honest I haven't wrapped a single present yet. I'm running a little bit behind schedule. Hasn't stopped me from watching most of the movies I've listed above.
I think Christmas movies go to the heart of my favorite kind of movie. I'm a romantic comedy kind of girl. And most of the movies I watch are about people falling in love during the holidays. They are about families and everyone coming home for Christmas. You might get a glimpse of the perfect family, and sometimes a not so perfect family.
Men are always romantic in Christmas movies. I have a great husband and I couldn't ask for a better partner in life, but he doesn't have a romantic bone in his body. I wonder if most men are that way? I have to believe they are....life is definitely not like the movies. Most of the time the parents in these movies have big fat wallets with gigantic houses. Not really reality either. But fitting for a great Christmas movie.
So, as I sit here watching "Eve's Christmas" I'll feel all warm and fuzzy over my holiday movie. And I look forward to watching many more during this month.
Until next time.....
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Childhood Traditions
I've said this over and over....Christmas is my favorite holiday and I love the entire holiday spirit that takes over me in December. I love Christmas! I have the best memories of Christmas when I was a kid. And, as I was writing that, I realized that I have the best memories from Christmas as an adult too. I think the great childhood memories have made me love the holiday and want to create those same great traditions and memories for my kids.
My parents still live in the house I grew up in. I was there this week and my mom has her Christmas tree up. It's not decorated yet, but it's in it's traditional spot. It's funny because my mom has forever had the same exacty size and shape of Christmas tree.
When we were kids my parents would load us up in the car on Christmas Eve and we would go to my Grandpa and Grandma's house in Grand Rapids. I don't exactly remember what we did at my Grandparents house, I'm sure we had some food and presents. But what I remember what the drive home. Snow on the ground, the moon and stars in the sky.....Tina and I staring out the window looking for Rudolph's nose. We were so lucky because we saw it every single year.
So we had a half hour drive home and when we got there the house would be all dark. Mom would turn on the Christmas tree lights and put their old Johnny Mathis record on the record player. As an adult, I love the Johnny Mathis "Winter Wonderland" CD. I keep it in my car and can listen to it over and over.
The best part, and the only way I can describe it, was the feeling of Christmas spirit. How can I describe it? I remember it being dark outside and sitting in my parents livingroom looking out the big picture window at the snow. The street light shining on all the snow in the front yard....and if we were lucky it would be falling too...and the neighborhood felt so quiet. It was just a warm feeling in my heart that I cherish each year that I'm lucky enough to feel it.
I shared a room with Tina back then, and I remember laying there in bed and we couldn't sleep. We were so excited about Christmas that we didn't think we could ever possibly fall asleep. It was kinda like the night before we'd leave on vacation to St. Ignace. My parents must have loved seeing that excitement.
This probably sounds silly, but I think that I liked the time leading up to Christmas and Christmas Eve even more than Christmas day. Kids LOVE to open presents, but it just felt like Christmas was great in the morning then it was just sort of a boring day. I definitely loved the holiday spirit that floated around leading up to Christmas. I was just telling Jourdan the same thing the other day. It's different now, as a parent, because I'm cooking and getting ready for our big Christmas dinner.
I still get all these warm and fuzzy feelings during the holidays....most years. There have been some years that I haven't really felt it. Those are sad and very stressful years for me. I remember one year that I didn't even get out my decorations...we decorated the Christmas tree and that was it. How sad is that!
The great memories I have from my childhood make me want to create them for my kids. I look back at those memories with so much happiness that I want my kids to feel that way too. I tend to get a little crazy with decorating for Christmas. I have more to say about all this but I'll save it for another post.
I'm happy to report that I have the Christmas spirit in my heart this year. I feel warm and fuzzy over Christmas and my kids are so happy. We've decorated and we've been baking. It's awesome and everyone is happy.
I've invited our family here on Christmas Eve this year. We've all got families and have our own little family traditions that we are trying to have with our families, but I still want to give my kids a great Christmas Eve tradition that is sorta like the ones I remember. I hope we have snow when Santa comes. Our Reigndeer dust is ready to be sprinkled, we just need a little bit of snow to make it all come together.
Merry Christmas
My parents still live in the house I grew up in. I was there this week and my mom has her Christmas tree up. It's not decorated yet, but it's in it's traditional spot. It's funny because my mom has forever had the same exacty size and shape of Christmas tree.
When we were kids my parents would load us up in the car on Christmas Eve and we would go to my Grandpa and Grandma's house in Grand Rapids. I don't exactly remember what we did at my Grandparents house, I'm sure we had some food and presents. But what I remember what the drive home. Snow on the ground, the moon and stars in the sky.....Tina and I staring out the window looking for Rudolph's nose. We were so lucky because we saw it every single year.
So we had a half hour drive home and when we got there the house would be all dark. Mom would turn on the Christmas tree lights and put their old Johnny Mathis record on the record player. As an adult, I love the Johnny Mathis "Winter Wonderland" CD. I keep it in my car and can listen to it over and over.
The best part, and the only way I can describe it, was the feeling of Christmas spirit. How can I describe it? I remember it being dark outside and sitting in my parents livingroom looking out the big picture window at the snow. The street light shining on all the snow in the front yard....and if we were lucky it would be falling too...and the neighborhood felt so quiet. It was just a warm feeling in my heart that I cherish each year that I'm lucky enough to feel it.
I shared a room with Tina back then, and I remember laying there in bed and we couldn't sleep. We were so excited about Christmas that we didn't think we could ever possibly fall asleep. It was kinda like the night before we'd leave on vacation to St. Ignace. My parents must have loved seeing that excitement.
This probably sounds silly, but I think that I liked the time leading up to Christmas and Christmas Eve even more than Christmas day. Kids LOVE to open presents, but it just felt like Christmas was great in the morning then it was just sort of a boring day. I definitely loved the holiday spirit that floated around leading up to Christmas. I was just telling Jourdan the same thing the other day. It's different now, as a parent, because I'm cooking and getting ready for our big Christmas dinner.
I still get all these warm and fuzzy feelings during the holidays....most years. There have been some years that I haven't really felt it. Those are sad and very stressful years for me. I remember one year that I didn't even get out my decorations...we decorated the Christmas tree and that was it. How sad is that!
The great memories I have from my childhood make me want to create them for my kids. I look back at those memories with so much happiness that I want my kids to feel that way too. I tend to get a little crazy with decorating for Christmas. I have more to say about all this but I'll save it for another post.
I'm happy to report that I have the Christmas spirit in my heart this year. I feel warm and fuzzy over Christmas and my kids are so happy. We've decorated and we've been baking. It's awesome and everyone is happy.
I've invited our family here on Christmas Eve this year. We've all got families and have our own little family traditions that we are trying to have with our families, but I still want to give my kids a great Christmas Eve tradition that is sorta like the ones I remember. I hope we have snow when Santa comes. Our Reigndeer dust is ready to be sprinkled, we just need a little bit of snow to make it all come together.
Merry Christmas
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Separate Your Mind....From Your Body
I can't even believe that it's December and I haven't been here to say hello since April. SO MUCH has happened in our lives. It's going to take a while to catch you up.
First of all....Merry Christmas! I love Christmas, it's my favorite time of year. My house is so festive. I haven't wrapped any presents yet, but there are decorations and lights EVERYWHERE! I've been baking so I'll try to add some delicious recipees to my recipee blog.
I don't even know where to begin....I glanced back at a couple of my last posts and I was pretty angry. I had just left my job to be a stay-at-home mom. Plus, we had just bought a new house, so I was in the process of packing. Ohhhh packing! I hate the packing and the unpacking. So much that I can't imagine ever wanting to do it EVER again! :)
It took a while, but things have settled down in the Watkins household. We're getting used to living in Saranac again and we've unpacked almost every box in the storage room. Best of all, we're happy. I really feel like our family is happy. And that's a really good feeling. I've gotten used to being at home and taking care of Scott and the kids. And the house. And the dogs. No really, it's all good, and our family is happy so that's what counts.
I was struggling with being at home the last time I posted. But, I've got 7 more months of therapy under my belt and I'm getting a routine down. Not too much routine, but just enough to keep me happy. I think I was feeling really unappreciated. I think sometimes a family can just become so used to someone doing everything that they forget to appreciate just how much a mom does. I've learned to communicate better with Scott and I don't have many of those meltdown days anymore.
I know my post is a little boring tonight, I wasn't sure about what I wanted to write. But now that I'm here, the ideas are popping into my head. I didn't have a spectacular childhood, but my parents sure did a great job with having family traditions for Christmas. Honestly, Christmas is my favorite childhood memory. So, I think that's what I'm going to write about next time. I'm trying really hard to create the same memories for my kids. It's not always easy...we have a pretty big age gap with the kids. But we try and I'm going to share some memories this month.
My Thoughts For Today:
Something else I discovered just recently actually and looking back at my last couple posts just enforces what I think. Life is really tough. I know that nobody promised it would be easy, but I've struggled with the bumps in the road my entire life. I've never learned how to deal with the big problems or even the little ones. That's why I started going to therapy. Slowly, and I mean slowly, I am figuring out how to handle some of the stresses of life. It's not easy, and everyone has them.
I was helping Jason recently with something very serious and very stressful. It had me so tied up inside that I was having some pretty serious anxiety attacks, and it was keeping me from sleeping. I didn't have a therapy appt set up until after this so I had to figure out how to handle it without completely losing it. So, I prayed.
If you know me, you know I'm not a super religious pushy kinda person. But, I prayed and prayed and it helped me. Once I was done helping Jason get through this serious thing, I remember being in the car thinking....this is just every day life. Who has a perfect life? People handle bumps in the road every single day of their lives without having meltdowns. So, I'm wondering how I can. I started by going to Google and searching information on "Obsessive Thoughts". I never thought of myself as obsessive, but reality slapped me in the face. I'm a worrier. I worry and worry and worry.
I'm not a neat freak. I don't have all my canned goods lined up according to size and alphabetically organized. I just worry. I worry about things I have no control over. Friend of the Court sent me paperwork for an automatic child support review. I guess it's been over 6 years since it was looked at. So, I filled out my paperwork an andd sent it in and started to worry. What if they reduce it? He pays so little now and 16 year old young women are expensive to raise. What if they increase it? He will most definitely dispute it and then we'll have to go to a court hearing.
I realized I was just getting on a roll with worry. I was worrying about Jason, even though there was nothing I could do about it. By the way, it had to do with Two Men And A Truck in Wyoming, MI. If you ever have to move....call Big Brother or some other moving company. Two Men And A Truck treat their employees TERRIBLE! The owner will soon be in trouble with the Wage and Labor Div of the State of MI. He's expensive and not customer friendly if you have damages!
Enough of that, I was worrying about Jason, I was worrying about FOC, I was worrying about having money for Christmas. I have four kids after all. There was one obsessive worry after another. I couldn't stop myself. The day of Jason's deal, I had to take an anxiety pill. The first in a long time and I was very disappointed in myself for my inability to deal with the stress.
I found an article that made sense to me. Basically it told me that your mind is separate from your body. Think about it, things pop up in your mind all the time. You can be sitting there and some random thought or memory will pop into your head. With me, negative and stressful thoughts keep popping up in my head and then I give it alot of energy and attention. Then the anxiety attacks start. My goal, is to change how I deal with those thoughts. It's not easy. It feels like work, to have a thought pop into your head and you have to physically push it away. Don't give it energy. If I do, it will become this ugly monster that gets out of control.
So, I guess what I'm getting at is that this happens to everyone. I'm not alone in worrying. So, I'm going to try harder not to focus on the negative thoughts and worry. I know it can be done because of Scott. Scott is the most positive person I know. I don't think I've ever heard him say he's had a bad day. He always thinks that things could be worse. And he's right. I love how positive he is. Once you start paying attention to positive thoughts you discover how negative other people are. I'll keep you updated.
Well, this was a great night back. I wasn't sure that I could think of something good to talk about. Maybe it wasn't good to you, but it felt good to me to write about my worrying. I'm still going to worry...I think that's the mom, wife, and friend in me....but I'm trying not to make the worry turn me into a witch!
Thanks for stopping by. I promise not to be as boring next time.
First of all....Merry Christmas! I love Christmas, it's my favorite time of year. My house is so festive. I haven't wrapped any presents yet, but there are decorations and lights EVERYWHERE! I've been baking so I'll try to add some delicious recipees to my recipee blog.
I don't even know where to begin....I glanced back at a couple of my last posts and I was pretty angry. I had just left my job to be a stay-at-home mom. Plus, we had just bought a new house, so I was in the process of packing. Ohhhh packing! I hate the packing and the unpacking. So much that I can't imagine ever wanting to do it EVER again! :)
It took a while, but things have settled down in the Watkins household. We're getting used to living in Saranac again and we've unpacked almost every box in the storage room. Best of all, we're happy. I really feel like our family is happy. And that's a really good feeling. I've gotten used to being at home and taking care of Scott and the kids. And the house. And the dogs. No really, it's all good, and our family is happy so that's what counts.
I was struggling with being at home the last time I posted. But, I've got 7 more months of therapy under my belt and I'm getting a routine down. Not too much routine, but just enough to keep me happy. I think I was feeling really unappreciated. I think sometimes a family can just become so used to someone doing everything that they forget to appreciate just how much a mom does. I've learned to communicate better with Scott and I don't have many of those meltdown days anymore.
I know my post is a little boring tonight, I wasn't sure about what I wanted to write. But now that I'm here, the ideas are popping into my head. I didn't have a spectacular childhood, but my parents sure did a great job with having family traditions for Christmas. Honestly, Christmas is my favorite childhood memory. So, I think that's what I'm going to write about next time. I'm trying really hard to create the same memories for my kids. It's not always easy...we have a pretty big age gap with the kids. But we try and I'm going to share some memories this month.
My Thoughts For Today:
Something else I discovered just recently actually and looking back at my last couple posts just enforces what I think. Life is really tough. I know that nobody promised it would be easy, but I've struggled with the bumps in the road my entire life. I've never learned how to deal with the big problems or even the little ones. That's why I started going to therapy. Slowly, and I mean slowly, I am figuring out how to handle some of the stresses of life. It's not easy, and everyone has them.
I was helping Jason recently with something very serious and very stressful. It had me so tied up inside that I was having some pretty serious anxiety attacks, and it was keeping me from sleeping. I didn't have a therapy appt set up until after this so I had to figure out how to handle it without completely losing it. So, I prayed.
If you know me, you know I'm not a super religious pushy kinda person. But, I prayed and prayed and it helped me. Once I was done helping Jason get through this serious thing, I remember being in the car thinking....this is just every day life. Who has a perfect life? People handle bumps in the road every single day of their lives without having meltdowns. So, I'm wondering how I can. I started by going to Google and searching information on "Obsessive Thoughts". I never thought of myself as obsessive, but reality slapped me in the face. I'm a worrier. I worry and worry and worry.
I'm not a neat freak. I don't have all my canned goods lined up according to size and alphabetically organized. I just worry. I worry about things I have no control over. Friend of the Court sent me paperwork for an automatic child support review. I guess it's been over 6 years since it was looked at. So, I filled out my paperwork an andd sent it in and started to worry. What if they reduce it? He pays so little now and 16 year old young women are expensive to raise. What if they increase it? He will most definitely dispute it and then we'll have to go to a court hearing.
I realized I was just getting on a roll with worry. I was worrying about Jason, even though there was nothing I could do about it. By the way, it had to do with Two Men And A Truck in Wyoming, MI. If you ever have to move....call Big Brother or some other moving company. Two Men And A Truck treat their employees TERRIBLE! The owner will soon be in trouble with the Wage and Labor Div of the State of MI. He's expensive and not customer friendly if you have damages!
Enough of that, I was worrying about Jason, I was worrying about FOC, I was worrying about having money for Christmas. I have four kids after all. There was one obsessive worry after another. I couldn't stop myself. The day of Jason's deal, I had to take an anxiety pill. The first in a long time and I was very disappointed in myself for my inability to deal with the stress.
I found an article that made sense to me. Basically it told me that your mind is separate from your body. Think about it, things pop up in your mind all the time. You can be sitting there and some random thought or memory will pop into your head. With me, negative and stressful thoughts keep popping up in my head and then I give it alot of energy and attention. Then the anxiety attacks start. My goal, is to change how I deal with those thoughts. It's not easy. It feels like work, to have a thought pop into your head and you have to physically push it away. Don't give it energy. If I do, it will become this ugly monster that gets out of control.
So, I guess what I'm getting at is that this happens to everyone. I'm not alone in worrying. So, I'm going to try harder not to focus on the negative thoughts and worry. I know it can be done because of Scott. Scott is the most positive person I know. I don't think I've ever heard him say he's had a bad day. He always thinks that things could be worse. And he's right. I love how positive he is. Once you start paying attention to positive thoughts you discover how negative other people are. I'll keep you updated.
Well, this was a great night back. I wasn't sure that I could think of something good to talk about. Maybe it wasn't good to you, but it felt good to me to write about my worrying. I'm still going to worry...I think that's the mom, wife, and friend in me....but I'm trying not to make the worry turn me into a witch!
Thanks for stopping by. I promise not to be as boring next time.
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