Preschool

Madison: I love preschool!
Mommy: Great! Do you want to go again?
Madison: No, I don't ever want to go again.

Time Out...

Prior to getting on the phone today I scolded Madison for telling me she didn't mean to step on the box for the second time in 60 seconds. I explained to her that she *fibbed* when she said it was an accident, when really she purposely did it. I told her to sit in time out to think about it. A few moments later she came out of time out and said, "Sorry, Mommy!" (This is a daily occurrence as she is having a difficult time obeying us the first time lately.)

A few minutes later I was on the phone with a friend. Madison again stepped on the box (I didn't notice), looked at me to see if I saw (I didn't really), and then walked herself to the stairs to sit in time out(this I noticed!). I was in such awe that I interrupted my conversation to ask her if she was in TO. She said "yes".... to my absolute delight! I then praised her, rewarded her with a hug, and told her she could get out of TO. I was so proud of her, why does she need me? She probably parents better than I do!

Fast Food

Today is the first day EVER that I went through a drive thru and purchased my child *Lunch*. I felt an overwhelming sense of guilt and conviction as I stared at the large menu choosing a compromised meal for my 3 yr old. I decided on the Kraft Mac n Cheese at Burger King (gross!) since it was the closest food item to represent something I would make at home.

I had visions of my slender little girl, pudgy and even obese (not an uncommon sight anymore!). I DO appreciate the slightly healthier choices available now at these fast food joints. I s Mac and Cheese really that healthy? I certainly won't make it a habit of doing fast food *ick*!

BrokenNESS

Amidst the busy*ness, I recognize a need to just settle in, get cozy, be still, and gain focus. I had a few moments today where I could stand back and thank God for His peace in our lives.

I look around at so many people I interact with daily and see brokenness. Broken relationships, broken marriages, broken homes, broken pocket books, broken bodies, broken policy, broken politicians, broken economy...So much Brokenness. It is painful to watch friends endure the brokenness in their lives. At times I even struggle with trying to really relate with the hardships. I don't want to personally endure the same things, and I haven't at this point in my life (thank the Good Lord). Still, I know that this life isn't supposed to be free of difficulties, and I figure my time is coming...

I count my blessings, and thank the Lord that He has protected me from the brokenness... I pray he does the same for my children. I pray they won't personally experience brokenness. I hope their lives are full of joy, innocence, and Godliness!

An evening in...

This last summer seemed to be the busiest summer yet... Between work, playgroups, out-of-town staycations, bbq's, parties, showers, swim lessons, birthdays, and appointments, we had very little down time! Now that summer is over I find that life continues the momentum and throws us right into the holiday season!

I have purchased the Halloween costumes, bought the candy, even made a new favorite recipe (from Jess' Kitchen!) of Pumpkin Cookies! My life revolves around goals... and my latest is to have more evenings like this one. Enjoying each other at the table, over cookies, sharing our seats, laughing at each other, and loving every minute of it!!!