We know that we are sent to this earth to be tested and tried. Our goal is to learn from our trials and return to our Heavenly Father with the ability to say "I did all I could do....and here is what I learned." I have been struggling a bit lately with the learning part. I get a little down some times....a little "poor me". So I've tried to look back on some of the learns I have picked up along the way. Here's a quick break down of the highlights....
2007: Trial...We picked up all we owned and moved to Minnesota. We knew no one.
Learn....We made amazing friends and grew closer as a family.
2008: Trial...My sweet Mom, my best friend, passed away. Devastated.
Learn....There is healing in faith and good friends. Never underestimate the power of family.
2009 Trial: Kevin left to serve a 2 year mission for our church. Mama's boy....how I miss him.
Learn....The joy of service and seeing my baby boy mature into a fine man.
2010: Trial....Moved (again) this time to Nebraska...(where?)Missing friends in MN as well as family.
Learn...Military families are amazing. I have learned so much about being flexible and resilient.
2011: Trial....Too many to list at the moment....
Learn....Still working on that one.....
But at least Kevin will be home soon (about 6 weeks) and my family will be under one roof again....for now. The last four years have been such a roller coaster ride. I have tried to learn lessons along the way that will help me become a better wife, mother, sister and friend. I'm sure that I have missed the point a few times and will have to retry a few of the trials....rats....but I am trying to take comfort in the fact that I am still standing. (Well, not right now...now I am sitting in a pool of my own sweat as I have just returned from Zumba) But the point is....some times we get so down on ourselves. We lose sight of the fact that since we are still here....still trying....that is a victory in it's self. So today I will work on putting a muzzle on that nasty Inner Critic. You know that voice in your head that tells you how you have previously or are now failing. I will focus more on the things I have learned....and moving through the trials one at a time, as they come, instead of always wondering what could possibly come next. Today I will celebrate small victories and stop focusing on things (that obviously, no matter how hard I try) I can't change. So who's with me? Are you up for it? Can you focus on the positive....This is one of my favorite quotes, "Promise me you'll always remember: You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." That Christopher Robin.....one smart guy. So, learn from your trials (and mistakes) and be gentle to yourself. That's all.....
Except for this quote for Nae....
"My spelling is Wobbly. It's good spelling but it Wobbles, and the letters get in the wrong places."
Winnie the PoohIt made me smile and think of you. ;)
Technically....I'm in this photo. These are my parents. This was taken in March the year I was born (in June). She looks 6 months pregnant.....right? Happy Father's Day Dad.....a little early....Thanks for putting up with all the trials that fatherhood brought to you. Looks like it all turned out great!!
A handful of almonds should be about 14 almonds. This way if my hand can't fit back out of the hole.....there are too many almonds in it. Crazy, I know....but idiot proof tabs really are my thing.
I couldn't help but show you these. I have two baby tomatoes! WOOHOO!!
I can't tell you how excited I am. This year, I planted two plants in a pot on my deck. I am very, very excited. There are a lot of blossoms on the plants so I will be sure to have tomatoes a plenty!
No crafting for me lately. I've been a little busy. See....I got a Fitbit. My life has changed. No really, it has. I am trying to be more active. It sets a daily goal of 10,000 steps. To reach it (and lets be serious...I always try for at least 15,000 now) I have to keep moving. I love to craft, and I will find a place for it again, but right now I love to Zumba more. So....my friends....keep moving to the beat in your head (doesn't everyone have a personal sound track?) and do what you love.
I usually do great in spring. I always remember to water everything. But by July I am over it. It is a hassle and I don't get everything watered like I should.
The roses don't seem to mind. They forgive me for my inattentiveness and my perpetual over-sight of details....you know....like water.....
They reward me with stunning blooms and beautiful green leaves. Maybe this year I will try a little harder to keep everyone watered and happy......maybe.
Here we are (sort of) at the beginning. You can see that I have already painted the wall in the back of the picture. I am finished with the walls coming down the stairs and that little hallway back there. I painted a patch by the bookcase....but really didn't love it. Against the stark white it is too brown.....but I tried it on the whole wall (and loved it).
Empty bookshelves.......and......
Mercy me! How many books do two people need? I did sort through them and decided to donate some.
Funny, I thought this pile would be bigger......
Then the fun begins. I pulled out my trusty Purdy brush and got to work. That's how I roll.....brush work first and then the roller.
Cutest little shadow you ever did see. I can't hardly take a step back without tripping over Miss Darla.
And there you have it. Decrapified, reorganized and newly painted. I do love this color. It is from Behr. It's called Almond Wisp. So if you're looking for the perfect greyeige color....look no further.
I am linking up with Metamorphosis Monday. Check out the great links!!
