Simple Woman's Day Book

FOR TODAY...March 23, 2011

Outside my window...some wonderful spring weather.

I am thinking...about the many changes/improvements that need to be made to the center before summer. We hit a new, all-time record of kids in care over spring break--52. We're only licesed for 58.

I am thankful for...healthy children. Randy passed his four year old check-up today (yes, I realize we are running almost a year behind) with flying colors.

I am wearing... scrubs. I'm always wearing scrubs.

I am remembering...spring 1998

I am going...to Houston next week for Cara's appointment, which we may decide to turn into a little mini-vacation--seeing as how the kids were stuck at the daycare for the entire spring break.

I am currently reading...Royal Marriages, and The Gifted Preschool Classroom.

I am hoping...that the master's new boss/best friend sold many, many hearing aids today. Did I tell you that the master is in the hearing aid business now?

On my mind...the season's many activities

Noticing that...my grey hairs are becoming quite numerous

Pondering these words... "When a child disobeys, he is in sin. When parents continually reinforce that disobedience [by failing to correct the child's waywardness], they are in sin." -Gary Ezzo

Ouch.

From the kitchen...not a whole heck of a lot.

Around the house...Girls arguing about bath. Ian measuring a pencil. A couple of doors opening and shutting. One lazy dachshund.

From my picture journal:

Girls with new pet bunny (which they promise, promise, promise to take care of) Oreo.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY...March 14, 2011
Outside my window... breezy, exceptionally clear night.
I am thinking...What a marvelous difference that one little hour makes. I actually have a tiny smidgen of energy at the end of the day. Oh, blessed sunlight! You will be hearing more from me in the weeks ahead--or at least until baseball season hits full swing.

I am thankful for... that the first day of spring break at S*nnyside was not the nightmare I dreaded, but turned out....sunny.
I am wearing... Thomas the Tank scrubs
I am remembering...my dog Sheba. These spring nights remind me of sitting on the front porch swing after school and petting her shaggy, black-rusty coat. Sweet puppy. (Also struck by the memory that there was a point in my life when I had the time to sit on a porch swing.)

I am going...to begin again on painting the house.
I am currently reading...Royal Marriages, The Gifted Preschool Classroom, and Shadows Bride.
I am hoping...to nail down several upcoming events in my life, Sunday school fellowships, birthday parties, CIA functions...
On my mind...the suffering Japanese
Noticing that...I feel more connected to myself when I write (journal, blog) regularly.
Pondering these words... "The anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God."
From the kitchen...After all that cooking I did over the weekend, we ate out tonight. So, what is up with that? But Monday nights at Carino's are more of a family tradition than anything else. Monday is half-price family platters. We can eat cheaper there on Mondays than we can at McDonald's.

Around the house...relative order and truly filthy floors. Clean laundry thanks to my beautiful, blessed mother-in-law.

From my picture journal:

Who could resist those eyes?

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY...December 28, 2009

Outside my window... cold and clear

I am thinking... about Wednesday's visit from licensing.

I am thankful for... a happy day with eight children and a return of Internet service after a two week hiatus.

I am wearing... this is what I love about childcare: my uniform. I am wearing new Eeyore scrubs with a thermal underneath. Cute, professional and, most importantly, comfy.

I am remembering... or trying to remember where I stuck all of our non-Christmasy home decor items so that I may pull them back out and put away our seasonal trimmings.

I am going...to visit an elderly friend sometime this week. I've been meaning to do it for months. I'm going. I am.

I am currently reading... suffering under my promise not to start a new book until the daycare opened.

I am hoping... please, please, please, let the state write me a license to care for children on Wednesday.

On my mind...the daycare. Tired of that one part of my life draining so much of my thoughts, focus, and concern--and we haven't even opened yet!

Noticing that...Cara is getting around so much better these days. She is really not that far behind developmentally.

Pondering these words... "The only time success comes before work is the dictionary." But someone assure me. Success does--eventually--follow, right?

From the kitchen... crock pot full of Taco Soup.

Around the house... four children watching new DVD. Cara talking to herself. Outside this circle of family, general order presides. We hosted a HUGE Christmas Eve party (so of course, I cleaned like crazy), and then quit the place the following morning only returning late last night.

One of my favorite things~high-speed internet. I can't lie. It is good to be back.

From my picture journal...

Watch out, world. Here she comes.

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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, November 16, 2009

Outside My Window...brrrr......

I am thinking...I am thinking about the gruesome murder of the 5 year old girl in NC. Wish I could stop thinking about it. Her own mother selling her as a prostitute? I want to vomit. When I hear stories like this, I feel certain we live in the last days.

I am thankful for...new contacts and restored vision. I've been blind since Thursday.

From the kitchen...finally finished off last week's VAT of turkey soup tonight. Tomorrow we have lentil and ham stew. New recipe--I'll keep you posted. We had to spend this week's grocery money on contact lenses, so things could get interesting.
I am wearing...work-out clothes. Went back to aerobics after a two week absence. It felt great to exercise again, but I'll probably be soar tomorrow.

I am creating...finishing up some sewing projects and work continues in the daycare.

I am going...I have no travel plans at present--unless you count L*wes and H*bby L*bby.

I am reading...started new bedtime book with the kids tonight--The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey

I am hoping...the headache I feel beginning behind my eyes will dissipate once I lay down. I wonder if it is related to my new contacts? I hope not.

I am hearing...not a creature stirring, not even a guinea pig.

One of my favorite things...I really dig a well put together classroom. My daycare rooms are starting to look like first-rate learning environments. I love that.

Around the house...I started to type "fairly clean," but as I glance out the office door my conscience pricks me. It was "fairly clean" this morning. In all honesty, it now falls into the "needs improvement" category.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...food and nutrition lady is supposed to come train me tomorrow. Wednesday church.

A picture thought I'm sharing:

She is five years old, too. What have we come to?

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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, November 2, 2009
Outside My Window...chili breeze, but clear and very beautiful
I am thinking...I am one of the most blessed people in the world.
I am thankful for...times when I remember the above.
From the kitchen...not much. We've been in revival this weekend, and we have taken most of our meals at the church building.
I am wearing...striped shirt and blue jeans.
I am creating...still not many creative endeavors beyond the daycare.
I am going...to eat dinner with a friend Thursday night. Looking forward to it.
I am reading...honoring my promise not to begin another book until the daycare opened. The daycare must open soon.
I am hoping...that Women of Faith trip will be a blessing to our church. It is not until April, but I have been put in charge and I'm starting to get nervous. I have to get 25 women to the conference or the church has to eat the tickets. I have eleven signed up. Anyone want to join us?
I am hearing...baby crying her "final protest before I succumb" cry.
One of my favorite things...being with other Christians and feeling that sweet Spirit--knowing heaven will be like that--only a million times better.
Around the house...a little tidier thanks to my mom and mother-in-law's efforts, as well as my this-has-gone-on-too-long breakdown over the bathroom. I stayed up till 11 last night scouring it.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...some family is coming in to help us paint the daycare tomorrow night, the aforementioned dinner date, and who knows what all?
A picture thought I'm sharing:

Tickle Torture

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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, October 19, 2009

Outside My Window...dark, cool, and clear

I am thinking...boring stuff like minimum standards, and ratios, and TB tests

I am thankful for...my church. *deep breath* I am really starting to love (and dare I say--trust?) these people. Scary stuff.

From the kitchen...'tis but a bitter waste land.

I am wearing...snugly winter jammies someone donated to the women's shelter that has not been here for two years. Hey, if I see them leaving stuff outside the building, I'll tell them that the mission has moved, but many people throw out bags and drive off. Most of the clothes are trash and we dispose of them with our garbage. But if it is something we can use...we wear it. I have no pride. Good stuff that we can't use we take to Go*dwill.

I am creating...daycare and fall festival ensembles. A few of which may end up coming from Party's Plus

I am going...to turn in my application to the state this week.

I am reading...I went through a reading spree about two weeks ago--reading non-stop and neglecting my family and home shamefully--and have now sworn off starting any new books until after the daycare opens

I am hoping...once again hoping that we will be able to sell our old house. The mortgage is a millstone around our necks.

I am hearing...clothes tumbling in the dryer.

One of my favorite things...hearing Marina laugh. It is a loud, brash, guffaw sound, so very incongruent with my thin, waif-like little girl, that I invariably laugh along with her.

Around the house...Staying up late hours to try and keep up with the housework after working in the daycare all day. Futilely, I may add; I am not keeping up at all. And we ate take out twice today. TWICE! I think that sets a record.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...More daycare, TB test, I think we have some parent/teacher conferences, my parents are visiting this weekend...

A picture thought I'm sharing:

The bluest eyes in Texas.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, September 14, 2009
Outside My Window..."And the rain, rain, rain came down, down, down in rushing, rising rivulets..."
I am thinking...that if I had as many prospective clients, as I have prospective employees, I would be all set for a successful daycare. I've heard from an awful lot of stay-at-home moms calling to see if I'm hiring yet. Um, no. Businesses generally need income before they can manage out-go. I usually ask these ladies if they have experience in childcare or teaching, to which they respond, "Well no....but I have kids," or "I've babysat alot." *sigh* Running a good early childhood classroom is a whole different ballgame from "baby sitting," and being a mom does not necessarily mean that you are cut out for childcare. Believe it or not, folks, managing a classroom and caring for large groups of small children takes skill and special gifts. It's not a job that "just anybody" can do--or at least, not do well. Listening to the radio this afternoon, I heard the statistics for the shortfall of registered nurses in this country and thought, "I should have made that my major instead of early childhood education." Not only would I be in demand and most likely have my choice of positions, no one would tell me, "I've been to a hospital, so I think I could work as a nurse," or "I've taken care of a sick person before. That's nursing, right?"
I am thankful for...my Chi iron. After four months of chi-lessness, I broke down and bought a replacement on Friday. My little sister had a shower this weekend in our hometown, and I just couldn't face a room full of old friends and relatives with THE POOF. It really is a shallow, vain thing to be thankful for, but I am. I can't help it.
From the kitchen...This rainy, cooler weather has put us in a soup mood. Large pots of potato soup and gumbo, should feed our crew for the better part of the week.
I am wearing...2009 VBS shirt and black capri pants.
I am creating...slings! I made a beautiful pouch style sling this weekend for my sister and nephew (I wish I had gotten a picture!), and I've had a request for a ring sling from a new friend.

I am going...except for Wednesday church, I have no travel plans this week.
I am reading...Parting the Waters by Jeanie Damoff (I read a little and ponder and pray. Read some more and ponder and pray. Not a story you can just plow through), Have A New Kid by Friday (I must not need new kids, because I'm not getting much out of this one), and The Mysterious Benedict Society (kid's bedtime book that has me hooked. It is excellent!)
I am hoping...for a good return on all the hard work and money that is going in to fixing up the daycare.
I am hearing...the master munching popcorn as he reads Princes of Ireland.
One of my favorite things...Have I mentioned my Chi iron?
Around the house...Cara is cruising, Randy's language is exploding, Marina is learning to keep a cleaner room, Ian is lovin' some guinea pigs, Abby continues to experiment with new hairdo's, and K has added songwriting to his list of accomplishments.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...finish last online course to renew my childcare director's license, and fill out application for a private tutor (hey, options are a good thing.)
A picture thought I'm sharing:

Hmmm, what can I get into up here?

Enjoy more daybooks here.

Simple Woman's Day Book

FOR TODAY, Monday, July 27, 2009

Outside My Window...Overcast and muggy skies, intermittent drizzle

I am thinking...I'm in overload right now. I needed to take a break from thinking and blog

I am thankful for...31 years (as of Wednesday) of health and happiness

From the kitchen...Crock Pot is cooling down from a slow cooked venison roast. It was intended for dinner tonight, but we got a free meal at McAlister's (manager's treat). You gotta love friends in high places. I guess we will eat the roast tomorrow.

I am wearing...plum workout outfit. Still loving my jazzercise class.

I am creating...a childcare center (but it is getting really old)

I am going...out with the master tomorrow night for my birthday, to watch Marina finish her two week course in swimming, and possibly squeeze in one last trip to the lake house.

I am reading...not much of anything, but got some great leads on books that I want to read at my conference this weekend.

I am hoping...for a solution to our money/opening the daycare problem

I am hearing...the kids and the master watching StarWars. They're huge fans.

One of my favorite things...white chocolate

Around the house...aiming for a totally tidy house by Wednesday. Something about having a clean house makes me feel whole and successful as a woman. As though the condition of my bathroom floors has some bearing on my worth as an individual? Intellectually it makes no sense, but I won't enjoy by birthday near as much if my house is not clean.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...covered that in "I am going"

A picture thought I'm sharing: My Three Couch Potatoes

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, July 13, 2009
Outside My Window...pavement is cooling off after our third straight day of 100+ temperatures
I am thinking...about all the various tasks, phone calls, and forms that have to be completed to open the daycare center by the end of August.
I am thankful for...Cara becoming (officially) a Su_____ on Friday! She is forever and legally ours. At least, I am assuming that the paperwork went through. We had a stickler for a judge (that has been our luck twice) and she wanted a sentence added to the document before she signed it, but she said she was granting our petition. Our lawyer said he would have the revised document in her hands by Monday. And I am also very thankful that though my new nephew arrived a little over two months early (he weighed in at two pounds and eleven ounces), both he and my sister are doing well.
From the kitchen...family favorite of Cr*ck P*t lasagna, corn casserole, and for dessert, angel food cake.
I am wearing...last summer's army green walking shorts that I have been avoiding all season for fear that they would no longer fit me, but they do! A trifle snug, but I don't recall them being excessively loose a year ago, so I'm good.
I am creating...a childcare center.
I am going...after two weeks of traveling to the lake house, home town, Lake Charles, on to Houston for court last week, and then to Dallas on Saturday, my plans are to stay blissfully at HOME!
I am reading...I'm in the middle of a series of novels by Karen Kingsbury
I am hoping...my daycare will fill up the first week, I'll run at 90-100% capacity, and within two years I'll get an offer to buy the building and business for half a million dollars. Hey, a girl can dream, right?
I am hearing...distant sounds of the kids supposedly cleaning the bathroom.
One of my favorite things...that angel food cake (topped with cool whip and Hershey's syrup) I just polished off wasn't too bad.
Around the house...much of our time and energy is being focused down in the daycare suite; things are a little messy.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Start interviewing employees tomorrow and CPR/First Aid certification coming up.

A picture thought I'm sharing:

A very blurry picture of the family in court on Friday. My dad didn't know how to turn on the flash. Or motion Marina into the shot. She was standing on the other side of Abby.

This is the part where I tell you to enjoy more daybooks by visiting http://www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/ , but the Simple Woman has taken the summer off, so this is all you get.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, June 1, (how can it possibly be June?) 2009

Outside My Window...er, Compound...hot and muggy skies

I am thinking...that we have spent our last vacation in ONE hotel room. I can't do that kind of time again.

I am thankful for...a safe and refreshing vacation despite cramped quarters

From the kitchen...quickie spaghetti for supper tonight, but fresh picked blueberries in the fridge promise better, Betty Crockerish, things tomorrow. Blueberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake--just thinking about it can make you gain weight.

I am wearing...T-shirt and exercise pants--and I actually exercised, ladies! I've joined a dance aerobics class. Yeah, me! It's fun, and I should be able to stick with it. It is the exact same type of aerobics I did in high school, and I always enjoyed my classes.

I am creating...Vacation Bible School backdrops

I am going...to the doctor as soon as possible. It is such a drag trying to find a new doctor, but its got to be done.

I am reading...not much to speak of. I need to find some good summer reads.

I am hoping...that this VBS comes off really well. I've kind of pushed the envelope with the church, changing things up from "the way we've always done it." That's considered taboo in most Baptist circles. I'm going to have some serious egg on my face if it turns out to be a flop. A wise old pastor once told us:

The first year, they worship you.

The second year, they criticize you.

The third year, they crucify you.

Words to live by! We are heading out of the honeymoon and into that second year. Though it is hard to believe we have been here almost a year.

I am hearing...the AC units purring away.

One of my favorite things...watching Cara commando crawl.

Around the house...Okay, so this is embarrassing, but we came home to a house full of gnats. I don't understand it. We left the house CLEAN, and made sure we set the empty garbage cans outside. I hate bugs in the house and have been frantically slapping gnats all day. The master says he doesn't notice them. HE'S TRYING TO MESS WITH MY MIND. Will setting a flea bomb off kill them, you think? How many bombs does one use to fumigate 4,000 square feet?

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Still more school programs and ballgames (I can see the light at the end of the tunnel). School wasn't over for the kids last week, we just decided that since education stopped some time during mid April, they wouldn't be missing much. We were right. I think we have family parties with the master's side this weekend and VBS planning.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Next best thing to swimming with the dolphins.

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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, May 18, 2009
Outside My Window...unseasonably cool night, and tomorrow's forecast, another BEAUTIFUL day like today.
I am thinking...over all the bad press and stigma that is being dumped on the word 'religion'. Even more thought provoking--the number of Christians trying to distance themselves from the term with catchy slogans like, "It's a relationship, not a religion." (Um, it's both), and "We're not religious people," or "I'm not a religious person." (Oh, really? Funny, because Jesus, you know the One we claim to follow, was deeply, perfectly religious and commanded us to be a people who practice pure and perfect--yes, I'm not afraid to use the 'r' word--RELIGION!). There is even a website: http://www.notreligion.org/. I realize there have been many false, oppressive, and empty versions of religion over the centuries, but I believe this is a classic case of throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Hey guys, instead of reacting, apologizing, and pandering to the world, which, I remind you, is never going to understand us anyway, how about we try this: let's use biblical terms in biblical ways. Radical idea you say? Well, maybe, but let's give it a shot. Who's with me? Post to follow on this topic.
I am thankful for...supportive comments on the last post. That was a tough one for me.
From the kitchen...delicious Enchiladas Verde. The Mexican cookbook just keeps giving and giving. But I am a total failure at Spanish Rice--the main recipe I bought the book for! I love restaurant style Spanish Rice and over the years, I've tried countless recipes hoping to create that same flavor within my home and budget. I'm beginning to think it is not the recipes, but the chef.
I am wearing...denim capris with peach embroidery and peach peasant style blouse
I am creating...a sundress for Marina and a slightly dressier dress for Abby.
I am going...last of the field days tomorrow and shortly after this week wraps up, Corpus Christi for vacation.
I am reading..."12 Extraordinary Women," and a retired Dallas pastor's memoirs entitled "Stories I Couldn't Tell When I Was a Pastor." There are some funny stories in there, but I'm sorry to say their isn't a companion volume, "Stories I Couldn't Tell When I Was a Pastor's Wife." Guess I'll have to write that one myself.

I am hoping...we get to see on our vacation many of the nurses who took care of Cara last summer and the social worker who helped match us with our precious baby girl.
I am hearing...puppy chewing up a pencil at my feet, the dishwasher.
One of my favorite things...this big screen monitor is so nice.
Around the house...not looking too good. Monday is usually my catch-up day from the weekend, but I had to take Randy to the doctor, grab a few missing notions for the sewing projects, try-out my new enchilada recipe, and attend ball games this evening. I only worked in two loads of laundry and two dishwasher loads--not enough to put a dent in the mess.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Still more school programs and ballgames (will it never end?!), and pack for vacation, finish up dresses, help the master paint the hall, take Randy on to the specialist on Friday....I'm stopping now because the prompt reads "A Few."
Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Think the folks in Corpus will recognize her? Yeah, I doubt it, too.

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Simple Woman's Daybook

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FOR TODAY Monday, May 11, 2009...

Outside my window (er compound)...cool breeze blowing away the puddles from today's showers.

I am thinking...pondering over the truth of God's word from this week's revival services.

I am thankful for...a fresh word from the Lord. And, Cara started crawling this week!!

From the kitchen...purposely avoiding that room after a weekend of elaborate meals for 15-30 people.

I am wearing...blue jeans, T-shirt, and tennis shoes

I am creating...again, resting from last week's creative endeavors. But, I am beginning to feel an itch to sew.

I am going...to revival services two more nights. K's field trip on Wednesday (first one I've made all year. Shame on me.)
I am reading...Twelve Extraordinary Women.

I am hoping...for everything to work out for our miniature vacation to south Texas.

I am hearing...the master watching The Adam's Family and munching popcorn.

Around the house...boys are back in their own, freshly painted room. The compound survived our onslaught of relatives and party guests rather well actually. A little behind on the laundry, though.

One of my favorite things...listening to the master pray.

A few plans for the rest of the week...MANY, MANY end of school-related activities. Revival meetings and a blissfully empty weekend.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Is that a great action shot, or what? Abby takes third place in the second grade girl's standing long jump.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY Tuesday, May 5, 2009...
Outside my window...the master says, "It is kind of pink outside....beautiful. Kind of hazy. The kind of night that makes you glad to live in East Texas."
I am thinking...I've inhaled to much Kilz to be thinking clearly.
I am thankful for...two new nephews! My older sister received a referral for a little boy in Dallas and will be visiting him later this week with the possibility of bringing him home early next week. My younger sister went for her first obgyn appointment to find that she was not 6 weeks pregnant, as she thought, but five months pregnant. What a shock! They scheduled a sonogram immediately and she is having a boy.
From the kitchen...tonight I broke out that new Mexican cookbook and made quesadillas--but not like my usual quesadillas. These had two kinds of peppers. The kids weren't too enthused, but I thought they were great. Also, the leavings of the first watermelon of the season. We tried to eat it on our beautiful, big deck, but we were swarmed by another of the season's "firsts." The kind that makes you NOT so glad to live in East Texas. Mosquitoes. Time to break out the citronella and propane fogger.
I am wearing...blue jeans, T-shirt, and a considerable amount of white primer.
I am creating...party planning is in full swing. I need a tractor cake, a tractor backdrop, and cutsie tractor party favors by Saturday. Also trying to get boys' room finished before company arrives for the weekend.
I am going...no travel plans this week.
I am reading...VBS curriculum. Yes, it is that time of year again.
I am hoping...that a brilliant idea for a Mother's Day gift will suddenly hit me.
I am hearing...Dishwasher humming away.
Around the house...little boys are sleeping soundly on the same pillow in the guest bed. The master is hard at work painting in their bedroom (I will join him shortly), and the others are all tucked in to their appropriate resting places.
One of my favorite things...Weight Watchers 2 point cheese.
A few plans for the rest of the week...Wednesday church. Friday ballgames and company arrives. Saturday party in the noontime and wedding in the evening. Sunday Mother's Day.
Here is picture thought (um..SmileBox slide show) I am sharing...

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

To participate or simply enjoy more daybooks, visit The Simple Woman.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, April 27, 2009

Outside my window...busy highway under muggy skies

I am thinking...about all that needs to get done for recognition service on Sunday. I should not, should not, be blogging right now.

I am thankful for...the opportunity to buy this place. We got the selling price this past week and it is much less than we even dared to hope. We will definitely be drawing up a contract as quickly as possible (we're afraid they'll change their minds!). An additional blessing is that they will finance it for three years and no down payment. God has provided.

From the kitchen...Much noise as the children "clean" up dinner. Housework never sounded so fun. I tried a new recipe, having become excessively bored with my usual fare. It was tasty: Polo y Arroz.

I am wearing...exercise pants, Children in Action Shirt, and tennis shoes.

I am creating... (from last daybook) Finishing up kids ministry vests...still finishing. I need to put more finish in my finishing.

I am going...to the big city for Cara's appointment Wednesday, Saturday UIL and possibly squeeze in a trip to the rose gardens. Our earlier trip was postponed due to rain.

I am reading...Miracle on Maple Hill (kid's bedtime book), Betty Crocker's Mexican Cookbook (available at a W*llm*rt checkout stand near you), and Twelve Extaordinary Women

I am hoping...that no one on Cara's "team" will fuss at me during this appointment. Last time, they gently accused me of practicing medicine without a license. Ouch! Apparently, raising six children does not qualify.
I am hearing...The puppy chewing up a magic marker under my chair. Randy playing with an annoying, talking giraffe from a H*ppy Me*l, Abby singing a new sonnet to Cara (borrowing heavily from melody and lyrics of Amazing Grace):

"I once was A_____ C______, (birth certificate name)

But now I'm Cara S________,

God found the right mommy for me...."

Interesting, in that we don't use the terminology "right" and "wrong." We say "birthmother," and phrases like, "It was God's plan for you to be in our family." Further proof that children in her stage of development are characterized by black and white thinking. Oh, now Marina is adapting it,

"I once was Olga Trofimova,
But now I'm Marina S________"

O.K. I think I am going to cry now.

One of my favorite things...looking into Randy's beautiful brown eyes.

Around the house...bathroom is nasty--about to go clean it. Little boys' furniture piled in the center of the room awaiting paint.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...preparations for Sunday's special service, Ian's Kindergarten graduation, and the aforementioned activities.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalm 19:1

*taken this weekend on our camping trip. Those little bitty figures surrounding the boat on the shoreline are my kids. They are the "work of His hands," too.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, March 30, 2009

Outside My Window...I have very few windows in my new home...rather like a compound. Hold on while I check...Pretty dusk and a slight breeze.

I am thinking...Honestly, I've been feeling overwhelmed by our spring schedule, and I'm trying to think as little as possible. You know, it is better if I function only on auto-pilot. What with birthdays, ballgames, end-of-year programs, massive painting/maintenance projects, etc. it is a bit much to take in and process.

I am thankful for...O.K., so I went to a Women of Faith conference this weekend, and I came away PROFOUNDLY thankful (once again) for a loving, healthy childhood within my nuclear, middle class, family--free of abuse, disorders, addictions and full of affection, acceptance, parental involvement and Biblical discipline. Apparently, and sadly, I am a gross and ever dwindling minority. Don't get me wrong, my maiden name wasn't Beaver, but neither was it Manson. Usually, I get so much out of this conference, but this time, I couldn't relate to anything the speakers touched on. I'm very glad to be excluded, but burdened for my sisters who have such obstacles to overcome and wounds to heal from.

From the kitchen...Not much. Left-over sandwiches from last night's fellowship and cheese puffs graced the table for dinner. It's clean, though. I made the kids eat their highly nutritious meal on paper towels.

I am wearing...T-shirt and jogging pants. Classy.

I am creating...This week? Two Barbie doll cakes for Marina's B-day party.

I am going...to a job fair on Thursday, and to take an Exit exam on Saturday (before the party) to add to my teacher certification.

I am reading...Miracle on Maple Hill (kid's bedtime book), The Maker's Diet and Twelve Exceptional Women, Exit study guide

I am hoping...for Cara to cut her first tooth sometime this week. I can see it, RIGHT THERE, below the gums, but it will not break through.

I am hearing...The occasion BLEEP from a dying smoke detector punctuates the silence. The house emptied out during my teaching session for a T-ball game, but any minute now, the volume will be coming back up.

One of my favorite things...er...people...Steven Curtis Ch*pman. He gave a concert Friday night at WOF, so it was worth the trip ;0)

Around the house...continuing to make a homey nest.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Ballgames every night but Wednesday, Wednesday church, Thursday job fair, Saturday party, Sunday rest.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...don't guess I'll be sharing one of these any time soon. With this wireless card, I only have access on our new, photo-less computer. I have no idea where the software for my camera is. I guess I could just stick my card in the port and see what happens?

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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, February 9, 2009
Outside My Window...a very dark, darkness due to cloud cover.
I am thinking...why does my second grade daughter have 'jaywalker' as a spelling word? Who really needs to know that word? Surely there are many more important, useful words she should be committing to memory.
I am thankful for...lost items found.
From the kitchen...the master cooked dinner tonight, Mexican casserole. I was teaching online. I've purposely left the light off as I post. That way, I won't be distracted by the mess. *edited* The master says that I made him sound like a messy cook. This was not my intention. Allow me to clarify: I am exceedingly grateful that he cooked dinner. The kitchen is in no way MORE messy than it would be had I prepared the evening meal. This entry is intended as a disconnected stream of conscious. Nothing more. *edit on the edit* "Now you've made me sound like a whiner..." Well, if the shoe fits...
I am wearing...T-shirt and blue jeans
I am creating...quilt tops. I went to an estate sale this weekend and bought one almost finished top and one pre-cut quilt kit. Total money spent $5. That's a steal! And class valentines with the kids.
I am going...to start packing this week...If I pack, we will have a place to move, right?
I am reading...Sounder(kid's bedtime book), Can We Talk?, and Twelve Exceptional Women
I am hoping...to hear something about our possible new dwelling place this week.
I am hearing...The master occasionally clearing his throat in the back bedroom.
One of my favorite things...mornings at home with my two monkeys
Around the house...two words: Bath Night.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Big day for CIA (Wednesday night kids class I teach at church). On Saturday we are making Valentines, eating lunch, and heading out to local nursing homes. That night we have a Valentines banquet.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...She is getting SOOOOO big. Seven months already and as you can see, quite the little ham-bone! She has jumped up to the 15% on weight and height. That's stupendous for a preemie.
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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, January 19, 2009

Outside My Window...darkness and a slight breeze blowing

I am thinking...that it has been too long since I did "A Simple Woman's" post, and that I have a big day of cleaning tomorrow. I don't know how it happened. The house was in apple pie order on Saturday. How did it go so wrong so fast?

I am thankful for...my new/old job of teaching online. It wasn't what I wanted, but for now, it is the only thing available, and I'm glad to be contributing a even a small amount to the household income.

From the kitchen...I am ashamed to tell you, but honesty is the best policy: fresh baked chocolate-chip cookies. Yes, we've fallen off the diet. That will be another post. We're climbing back on the horse tomorrow, though. Promise.

I am wearing...pink long-sleeve shirt and grey warm-ups.

I am creating...scrapbook pages. Dozens and dozens of scrapbook pages. I've worked all weekend sorting, grouping, and scrapping pictures, some as far back as Rina's homecoming. I've made a resolution to catch up, and once the backlog is cleared, to convert to all digital. I love traditional scrapbooks, but with six kids, there is no way I can keep up. I don't want the kids to be headed to college, and me not having finished their kindergarten graduation. That's where I'm headed, at this rate. I learned from making our birthmom book, digital is SO MUCH faster.

I am going...back to the natural foods store tomorrow to re-stock all of my green drinks and supplements. Letting myself run out of supplies was a major tactical error in the battle of the bulge.

I am reading...Tale of Despereaux (kid's bedtime book). Excellent read.

I am hoping...that a couple in our church will decide to buy this house. We were turned down last week for a home loan and the current owners are getting impatient to sell. While the news was disappointing, it did not take us by surprise. We simply do not have the debt to income ratio to justify (for the bank) a second mortgage--particularly in today's economy. What I dreaded most was having to move again. I also didn't know where we would go, as most rental properties are one or two bedroom. For a family our size, that won't work. The master explained the situation in prayer meeting and put out a plea for folks in the congregation to let us know if they had any information for housing possibilities. Afterwards, a couple approached us and said they would be interested in buying the house and letting us rent from them until we were ready to buy. They came on Saturday to look it over. The husband was nervous about some foundation issues, though, so I don't know if they will make an offer or not. Please hope with me that they do.

I am hearing...Cara finishing her bottle. The dryer tumbling.

One of my favorite things...chocolate-chip cookies. My body didn't need them, but my taste-buds sure enjoyed them.

Around the house...heaps of laundry. General disorder. Sleeping children. And piss ants. Sorry, but I don't know their scientific name. I grew up calling them piss ants. They are the teeny, tiny black ants, and they have invaded en masse. As soon as I track one entry and spray it with insecticide, I find them infiltrating another area of the house. The kids love to alert me to their presence because they get to say the word "piss" without getting in trouble.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Teaching online, Cara's physical therapy, and gallons of vegetable juice.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...Alas, I'm blogging on my new computer, and I have zero picture files.

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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, December 1, 2008
Outside My Window...I can't see outside my window, because my beautiful Christmas tree is blocking my view. But it is cold out there and moist...makes me wheeze just thinking about it.
I am thinking...about the damp weather with the possible respiratory repercussions and that I'm bone tired.
I am thankful for...the many unknown mommy's who take the trouble to send a little extra lovin' for my Cara. See picture thought.
From the kitchen...two delicious slow roasted hens and a big gaping hole where my refrigerator was. We rented our old house!!!! Big "yeah," on that. But we had to provide a fridge because of a typo on the listing stating that the house had one. Booo! Since our's didn't match our new house, we decided we would take it BACK down to the old house and buy a new one.
I am wearing...blue jeans, long sleeve shirt, and pull over.
I am creating...girls winter jammies and a Christmas card list. I lost my address book in the move, so I'm having to track down information. HINT, HINT: e-mail me your address.
I am going...to take Ian to the ENT on Thursday. The pediatrician said his ears looked, "sad and tired." Awww...poor deaf baby. Third set of tubes, here we come.
I am reading...Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle (kid's bedtime book)
I am hoping...still hoping to hear about that teaching position. If I don't hear something this week, it is a good sign that they have found someone else. Even though I don't really want to work, it would be disappointing to not have the choice.
I am hearing...The hum of the hard drive, and the tap-tap-tap of the keyboard.
One of my favorite things...my nativity all set out on the mantel.
Around the house...Disaster in the kitchen due to the loss of the fridge. Behind in the laundry and most other chores from Thanksgiving. Will I ever catch up? Probably around mid-January.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...With the exception of Ian's doctor's appointment, the calendar is pretty clear until this weekend. We are heading to Houston for our agency's Christmas party and a quick visit with my Aunt and Uncle who have not yet met Cara Bear-a.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Aren't they lovely? An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. You're looking at 168 ounces of prevention.

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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, November 24, 2008

Outside My Window...Still those darn leaves.
I am thinking...about how being a pastor has to be one of the hardest jobs on earth.

I am thankful for...kids that every once in a long while do the right thing without being asked.

From the kitchen...messy kitchen. I've been out of dishwashing detergent for three days. But the master brought some home, so after the homemade pizza, I will once again restore order and cleanliness.

I am wearing...blue jeans, T-shirt, no shoes.

I am creating...technically still creating quilt since the quilt has been started, but not completed. In the active sense of the word? Not so much.
I am going...home for Thanksgiving. We just can't swing the trip to Illinois, even with gas prices as low as they are.
I am reading...Happy to announce that we wrapped up Trumpet of the Swan and are moving on to Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle tonight.

I am hoping...that our possible rent situation works out. PLEASE hope with me. I'd also like to hear about a possible teaching position after the holiday. I dread putting Cara in daycare, but four months in the classroom would certainly help us pull out of our financial nose dive, and it would mean the master could quit the side job. The children would once again have a two parent home.

I am hearing...The last murmurs before Cara succumbs to sleep. The diswasher, hallelujah, the dishwasher is washing away. Ian has on his super hero jammies and is role playing as Superman--involves entirely too much running for indoors. Bathroom doors closing. Marina is doing a cheer. Now she is coming to say that Randy climbed the bathroom shelves and brought down a whole stack of towels...oh, my.

One of my favorite things...this week? Dishwashing detergent.

Around the house...Readying the rooms for the madness of the holidays. Washing up clothes for our upcoming trip.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Visit with Cari tomorrow, and baking (I'm responsible for mashed potatoes, pecan pie, and deviled eggs). Wednesday, still more doctor's appointments, one for Cara and one for Ian (he has lost his hearing AGAIN), late night drive to hometown. Thanksgiving Thursday, Friday clean out shed and garage of old house (because we will have renters, right? We are acting in faith), Saturday head home, swinging by tree farm on the way.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

The kid likes shelves.

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Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, Monday, November 17, 2008
Outside My Window...I can't see them, but I know that my yard is covered in fall leaves.

I am thinking...about the blog post I just finished reading. An adoptive mother who has spent the last three days with the newborn she expected to bring home today posted, "The mother is having second thoughts. Please pray."
I am thankful for...This will sound terrible, but at this moment, I am feeling very thankful that C.C. did not have a choice. Technically, she chose us, and I will be forever thankful for that, but in any case, she would not have been allowed to take Cara out of the hospital. I am thankful that C.C. willingly signed over her rights immediately, thereby making it possible for Cara to escape entering the foster care system.
From the kitchen...mmmm, good stuff. The lasagna is almost done. The french bread and corn on the cob are on the stove. Desert is chocolate peanut butter fudge (and it is good for you!)
I am wearing...blue jeans, T-shirt, tennis shoes. (I didn't have to retype that. It is the same thing as last week. Sad.)
I am creating...custom blog headers (see below). This weekend I figured out how to sew my own baby slings and I have already made two. Cara and I will make quite the fashion splash. Her sling is most useful for our all day trips to the Big City. Especially when I have Marina and Randy along. I can carry her in the sling and still have both hands free for hand-holding.

I am going...I'm changing this one to "I went" this week. I went to my hometown this weekend to visit my mom and attend my friend's baby shower.

I am reading...The Trumpet Of the Swan (kid's bedtime book. I think it is time we finished this book). Ephesians.
I am hoping...to hear something regarding finalization this week.
I am hearing...Cara is beginning to fuss. K is arguing with Ian. Abby is practicing the piano. I hear the lasagna sizzling. Marina is singing something, but I can't quite make out the words. Now, I hear drumming....
One of my favorite things...My "Hungry Girl Cookbook" Great buy ladies, and it is where I got my chocolate fudge recipe.
Around the house...as you can tell from the "I am hearing" section, it is pretty chaotic.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Get the last of the church directory in the mail, and crop on Friday and Saturday.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...

I'm a fashion plate.

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