Alone Time

All day long I dream about being alone. You know, the big dreams. I wish I could use the bathroom alone. I wish I could run an errand alone. I wish I could eat dinner without sharing food off my plate. I wish I could have just a few minutes to myself.

And then the magic happens. Ben comes home, takes the big kids to their Wednesday night Awana club, and I tuck the baby in to bed. All my wishes are coming true!

The funny part, though, is that I don't pick up that book I've been dying to read all day or soak in a hot bath- I get on my phone. I scroll Instagram. I order things off Amazon. I text. All week I crave quality, soul-filling alone time, and when it rolls around all I do is fritter it away.

I've realized that I often use quick fix methods in an attempt to fill my deeper needs. I turn to my phone because I'm too tired to focus on anything. I eat sugar all day instead of preparing a meal or healthy snacks because it's faster. I find this especially comes to light when I get my coveted alone time. All of a sudden, I'm so overwhelmed by the million things I've dreamed of doing that I shut down and just waste my time.

I've been convicted lately that I need to be more intentional in my time management. I need to plan better, think ahead of time about what I'm using my days for. And when I do have alone time, I want to have a way to quickly know what I'm going to do instead of anxiously overthinking all my options.

I have a lot of thoughts about this swirling around in my head that I may write more about later on, but for now, here is my small solution: have options ready. It feels like a lot of work to clean my bathtub to take a hot bath, so I don't do it. If I don't have a book to read, I don't take the time to find one. If I don't have a couple favorite movies around my house, I Google "funny movies on Netflix" for 2 hours.

Last night was different. I finished watching an episode of The Great British Baking Show I'd been meaning to watch, then I read my library book in my recently cleaned bathtub. I had a relaxing evening with surprising little anxiety, all because I had a few things prepared or planned beforehand. I was surprised how much I was able to fit in to my evening and enjoy it, instead of my usual anxious Instagram scroll.

Going forward, my plan is to keep a few simple things ready. I'll clean my bathtub about once a month so I can use it when I need to. I'll keep a few to-be-read books on my shelf. I'll set out my copy of You've Got Mail ( my favorite movie!) so I know where it is if I want something to watch. I might even go buy some chocolate to stash away. Next time my unicorn of alone time shows up? I'll be ready.

What about you? How can you set yourself up for success when it comes to relaxation and rest?

Me Too, Mama

I was greeted this morning by an expectant face, asking the same question he asked me 500 times yesterday. No... not yet... stop asking!

I opened my Bible, desperate for Jesus to fill my cup, only to find a page covered in scribbles. I wanted to make you happy, Mama. I wrote my name for you. See my amazing drawing?

I'm trying to take just a few minutes to be alone, but hear my name called tearfully through the window. I don't want to go play... I want to be with you.

Today has been one of those unexpectedly rough days where I just don't want to be a stay-at-home mom. All day, I've just wanted to drink coffee uninterrupted, get lost on my phone, and nap. I even had a really sweet hour at the library and our local coffee shop with my kids, and I still felt depressed and discouraged. I wanted to throw my hands up, grab some chocolate, and give up.

Do you ever have days like this? Do you ever feel like your entire life is all for nothing? That you'd give anything to have just one day off from all the needs of little hearts and hands?

When everything seems to be falling apart, here are of few of the ways I pull myself back together (in no particular order). And just know, these are for me! I'm writing this right now because I need it most of all!

First, I try to find a few minutes to look through my frustrations to what is actually going on. I find if my children are occupied with food, playtime, or a movie, I can actually find a second to do this! Today I realized half-way through the day that our heaven-baby's birthday is today. Even when I forget what month it is, my heart somehow remembers deep down that it's a painful day. Of course, I'm off today. Of course I feel sad and want time alone.

Second, I spend time with Jesus. I have been learning a lot lately about preaching the gospel to myself and my children. Today, I've been clinging to the truth that Jesus knows and understands my heart. He also had days he struggled through. He had frustrating disciples who couldn't get basic ideas through their heads. He was followed around constantly too! Christ gave his life as a sacrifice for me. What a privilege, even on my hardest days, to imitate my Savior.

And third, if I can, I ask for help from those around me so I can rest. Tonight my kids have an event at a local church, so I'll be taking the baby to Target. You better believe I'll be spending a good long while in the Joanna Gaines aisle and buying a giant bag of candy corn just for me. On Saturday, I get to go to a local event without the big kids. (Turns out when you have 3, just keeping the baby is a break!)

Mama friend, I am here struggling with you. I know how hard these days are. I hope that you find rest today, and support from your community. Be encouraged that Jesus knows, even if no one else does.

When Home Doesn't Feel Like Home

We have lived in North Carolina for a little over a month now. Our moving van arrived with all our possessions, overwhelming us with boxes. We have begun the process of registering ourselves as residents of NC, changing addresses, getting government documents in order. Eli has been at school for a few weeks now, while the girls and I have begun to establish routines.

And still, my days feel difficult, exhausting, and overwhelming. After a particularly rough day on Tuesday, I took a moment alone and realized what was making my day so difficult. I wanted to go home. You probably know the feeling; the ache in the pit of your stomach and the lump in your throat as you think about the comfort of whatever place you call home. Just seconds later, the realization hit me. I WAS home. I was standing in my new house, aching for a house we sold within a community we loved in a state we left. I've never experienced quite that level of displacement before. I suddenly felt unmoored, adrift across the country from everything I know and love.

As I have ruminated on these ideas this week, I realized the hardest part for me is the knowledge that I cannot go back. I cannot undo this move, I cannot catch up on what I have missed in Colorado. The only way through is forward. All I can do now is create a new life here, making new friends and creating new community.

I know that all this will come, just as it has in the many other places I have lived. But it still doesn't make it easier to be right here, right now. I'm reading this book with some dear CO friends about being brave, and the lesson couldn't be more timely. I'm realizing the great value of community, even when it's phone calls and Skype messages. I'm thanking Jesus for technology and for sweet friends who reach out to me throughout the days.

I feel small and afraid, but I know that the only way to stay the course is to stand up and be brave, trusting God each day, each moment. And so I raise my hands and bravely welcome a new life. It's terrifying, but it's also exciting. I know Jesus good things in store and much to teach me.

What about you? How are you being brave in your own life?

Perfection is Exhausting

I'm finally sitting down tonight after a long day in a long week with my kids. Ben has been out of town almost every night this week. Our house has been on the market for four weeks, in a city where selling a house usually takes a weekend. I am exhausted. I am so tired of keeping our house perfectly clean and juggling three kids all by myself.

I've been especially frustrated this week because the whole point of this move is so that I don't have to do it all anymore. I keep hoping an adult will step in and say "It's ok, let me take care of this for you." And then I realize, I'm the adult.

Over the past years I've been loving, parenting, leading, teaching, ministering, shouldering burdens, homemaking, and so many more things. I've struggled so much with the need to be perfect, and the false belief that I have to do all the things to be worthy of love. (Anyone else an Enneagram 1?)

As Ben and I have prayed through this move, we have intentionally set aside both of our striving and goal-driven ideals to do what is best for our family. We are stepping out of what is comfortable and our need to be perfect. We are choosing to raise our kids in a way we believe will serve them well throughout their lives.

But after so much prayer and agonizing decision making, we stand here. Ready to go, plans in order. But our house hasn't sold. Some of our plans are looking different than we expected. I assumed following God's lead for us to move across the country meant everything would fall in to place. I assumed it would be a perfect move. Instead, I'm desperately trying to keep our house perfect while I fall apart.

Isn't it funny how God uses specific life events to teach us lessons? Here I am struggling with perfection in the midst of literally struggling for perfection. I cannot keep my house pristine and still be a sane human. I also cannot keep my life flawless in every area and have a healthy soul.

In a whole new way, I'm seeing that I desperately need God's grace. He has called me to holiness through the blood of Christ, not perfection. Those two are vastly different. And so I pray, I dig into His word, and I daily moment-by-moment ask for His grace in the midst of my gaping imperfections.

Books and Shows for a Cozy Fall

Fall always brings me home. Candles, warm blankets, sweaters, and a general homebody sort of feeling. We've had a surprisingly warm fall here in Colorado this year, but it doesn't make me any less ready to next for the cooler months.

This "nesting" that happens every fall brings with it a new round of books and television shows that I enjoy. After being outside most of the summer, it's a nice change of pace to curl up on my couch. Here are a few of my favorites right now...

Books



The Best of Everything by Rona Jaffe

I found this book on a "Books Every Woman Should Read" list and I haven't been disappointed. It's the story of five young women embarking upon careers in NYC during the 1950s. It is a good reminder of how far women have come in the workplace, and also a beautiful reminder of the idealism of young women. I wouldn't call it a "clean read" but I do think it's worth your time.



Treasuring Christ When Your Hands Are Full by Gloria Furman

I have never read a book on motherhood with so much truth on every page. Gloria ties motherhood back to Christ and shows how our role as mothers actively brings the Gospel into the world and into our homes. I have been challenged and encouraged on every page and I highly recommend it!



Dear Mr. Knightly by Katherine Reay

I am a huge Jane Austen fan, but as a rule I don't read knock-offs of the originals. However, this came highly recommended by my favorite Modern Mrs. Darcy so I gave it a try. I wasn't disappointed! The story is about a young women struggling to find herself and make a life in the midst of her personal pain. She writes letters to the anonymous Mr. Knightly and through the book you get to watch her grow into a new version of herself. It's a beautiful story and a quick, enjoyable read.

TV Shows

The Blacklist on Netflix

Ben and I are addicted to this crime drama. I love shows that have a longer plot that unfolds throughout the seasons and this show does not disappoint. It is a little scary and graphic at times so be aware.

This Is Us

I don't normally watch new shows until they arrive on Netflix but this one was worth the exception. It's only four episodes in, and I'm already loving this sweet family of triplets and their parents. As a parent myself I identify so much with this drama. I'm excited to see how the show unfolds.

Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life

THE PREIVEWS!!! This new GG installment comes out November 25 and I can't wait. A new preview was released yesterday and I'm even more excited than I was before! Expect me to disappear for a few days at the end of November.


What are you reading or watching?

Happy Fall, Y'all!

Can we just take a moment and cheer for fall?! This is my absolutely, positively favorite time of the year.

Growing up in Texas fall was this two-day event in November, so it's thrilling to live in Colorado where fall truly means colorful leaves, cooler temperatures, and pumpkin patches. I always find myself a little more home-bound this time of year, enjoying blankets, baking, and good books, and making my home a place I want to be.

With that in mind, here are a few of my current favorite "fallish" things(yep, new word for you- it's going to be in the dictionary, I promise!).

+ I love candles year round, and I think fall candles are the most wonderful. I love seeing the flame and smelling all that loveliness. I discovered a new company on Instagram recently called Candelles, and I'm itching to try one. I'm between Pumpkin Walnut Biscotti and Vanilla Maple.

+ I keep meaning to hit up Hobby Lobby's fall decor, but I haven't made it over there yet. I'm a sucker for a good fake pinecone or pumpkin. When I do finally go, I'll be sure to show my finds on Instagram!

+ HAVE YOU TRIED THE PUMPKIN SPICES KISSES?!!! Calming down- sorry guys, they're just so. so. so. good. I have a bowl of them on my kitchen counter and I just can't stop eating. They taste like a pumpkin spice muffin all in one magical bite. Try them! You won't be sorry.

+ Leggings. It's leggings season! With boots, and sweaters, and scarves, oh my! I've always been an on-the-cheap leggings girl, but something new has found it's way into my heart this year. Have you heard of Lula Roe? They are literally (hear Chris Traeger from Parks & Rec here) literally the best, softest leggings you will ever try. I make everyone touch my legs now. Hmmm... probably shouldn't do that anymore.... But really, these are amazing! If you're in the market for a pair join me on Facebook this weekend to shop your favorites!

What are your favorite ways to celebrate fall? I'm always on the hunt for fun new ideas!

5 Ways to Turn A Bad Day Around

Monday was one of those terrible, horrible, no-good, very bad days. Do you have those too? The kids were awful and I was in a really bad mood. Tessa refused to put a shirt on (plus was up from midnight to 3 am), and I yelled at Eli by 9 am. Then I accidentally put the mac & cheese noodles in dirty dishwater, and my house was a disaster.

Sometimes as a stay-at-home mom, I feel like these days are my new normal. Everything goes wrong, I'm overwhelmed, and I'm home alone with these crazy children of mine. It can be tough to get out of the rut of discouragement when every day feels the same.

I find I often need a push from outside myself to get going again. A reminder from a friend, a text from my husband, a nice store salesperson, to help me remember that everything is going to be ok. So here is my push to you. If you're having a rough day, here are five ways to help reset your mood and redeem your day.



1. Get some alone time. 
I know, I know, you have little ones and this is impossible. Let's be honest, I don't even go to the bathroom alone. You'd be surprised, though, what a cup of goldfish and an episode of Daniel Tiger will accomplish. Don't feel guilty for taking a few minutes away from your kids (while they're safely occupied) to collect yourself. Even a quick chocolate bar snuck in the pantry can do the trick!

2. Listen to music.
Music can change your mood with a quick push of a button. Grab your phone and crank up a fun song to help re-set yourself. As a bonus, your kids will think it's super fun.

3. Exercise.
I'm going to be honest with you- I. Hate. Exercise. Like really really hate it. BUT, I've recently discovered that it makes me feel happier, healthier, and more engergetic. Find something that fits your life, schedule, and preferences. I currently do yoga at our local YMCA while my kids are in their child watch. I know other moms who do Pinterest workouts or YouTube videos. Find your fit and go for it!

4. Clean something.
This one might seem counter-intuitive, but often creating a clean environment around you can give your soul peace. Give your kids a cloth and let them "dust" while you get the real work done, and you'll be so glad that at least one room in your house is clean!

5. Do something you love.
I find that as a mom of young kids, my time is spent on the kids and I don't get much for myself. My hobbies often fall by the wayside. It's so important to find time to do what you love, and to make time for it, even if you're exhausted. So find a friend to help watch your kids, or sneak away during naptime to do something. I promise if you look hard enough you'll find a little time to do something you love.

And if none of these work, put yourself to bed early and remember: You are loved. Nothing beats that.

Wednesdays on the Homefront

Friends, it has been a whole week since I have posted. A whole week! Goodness, I need to get better about posting at least a couple times each week. Hope you all had a wonderful holiday weekend!

Cooking: Baby food anyone? We started Eli on baby food this past week, which has been so fun! He makes lots of crazy faces and spits out a great deal of it, but we're getting there. I got this awesome cookbook from my aunt called Sage Spoonfuls and I love it. The book divides the recipes into sections based on your baby's age, and reviews health issues, allergies and much more. I highly recommend it!

Cleaning: I'm really trying to get better about keeping on a cleaning routine. I have been fairly proud of myself for how much I'm able to get done during the day! I'm so grateful for nap time, even if Eli is still learning how to sleep for more than 30 minutes in a stretch.

Creating: Ben wrote on our to-do list whiteboard last night "finish baby bumpers" in big letters with underlining. Oops! I meant to have them done before Eli was born, and that obviously didn't happen! Now that he is sticking his legs out the crib slats, it's time to get those made. I'll be sure to post pictures when I'm done. I also painted wooden letters that spell out Elijah this week to hang about his crib. Once both the bumpers and letters are in place, the nursery will be almost complete!

Loving: Eli and I have been spending almost every afternoon at a park near our apartment. He loves to lay on the blanket and look up at the trees, and it gives me a chance to read. I haven't done a lot of pleasure reading in years, what with school and then the business of life and work. It's so nice to have a chance to read again! I'm currently reading a couple of books: the second Hunger Games book Catching Fire and The Night Circus. I'm working on creating a list of books to read. What are you reading and what books do you recommend?

Living: We went camping with our friends Joy and Jordan this weekend, and had a blast. I'm not much of an outdoorsy girl, but I was surprised how much I enjoyed camping. Maybe I'll be a true Colorado girl yet! Eli came with us and he did fantastic. He loves being outside and seemed to love hiking too. It was fairly chilly since we were in the mountains, so we had him all bundled up which was pretty much adorable.

Learning: Guys, parenting is tough. Seriously. As I type this, Eli and I are in the midst of a naptime battle. I put him down at 10:00am, and he slept for 20 minutes. It's now 11:20. He's still in bed, and has been crying ever since. I'll go in every 5 minutes or so and comfort him until he falls asleep. But as soon as he notices I'm gone (maybe 30 seconds?) he starts screaming again. Nap time has been so difficult for us! Here's to hoping he begins to learn how to sleep on his own. (Update: After finally deciding to rock him for awhile, he fell asleep! Hooray!)

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Wednesdays on the Homefront

Cooking: I made mango curry for dinner last night and it was delicious! It's the perfect summer recipe to feed a hungry family. This morning our house smells like an Indian restaurant... fans are running at full speed! I think I need to buy some candles too.

Cleaning: Shall we make this decorating today? I bought some new curtains at Ikea last week and I love them! I've never been very good with curtains. They are usually the last thing I buy and I'm really picky. However, I always forget how much they soften a room and make it look finished! Suddenly our hand-me-down bedroom set from the 1970's doesn't look quite so bad. I'm inspired to buy curtains for the other windows in our apartment now too!

Creating: I've been working on a few sewing projects for Etsy lately. My mom lent me her new sewing machine, so I've been enjoying being spoiled by all the special features! Speaking of Etsy, I'm going to be doing a series of posts and giveaways this fall related to baby items on Etsy. Are you exited? Stay tuned for details!

Loving: This cooler weather! Fall is my very favorite time of year. I love the aspens changing color, the weather, the scarves... oh my goodness I'm so excited! Poor Ben, the moment the weather dips below 90 I'm dancing around the house talking about cinnamon and pumpkin spice lattes. I'm really hoping this fall is a season of order and peace for us as I find my new rhythm with Eli and really enjoy our life. Also, how ridiculously cute is Eli in his fall pajamas?

Living: Little man woke up at 6:45 happy as can be this morning. Not being a morning person, I was not nearly as cheerful about it. I tried putting him in bed with me, but he just laid there and hit me in the face until I got up. After a cup of coffee and some delicious cookies from a friend, I felt a great deal better! I'm thankful he normally sleeps until 8 so I have a little time to myself!

Learning: How are your mornings going? I haven't been doing nearly as well as I could be with my morning goals, but I am making progress. Most days I'm up by 8 (the goal is 7) and I've laid out clothes the night before or done the dishes a few more times than usual. I'm hoping to get better at waking up early so I can add some Pilates or yoga to my morning routine.

Well, happy Wednesday! And welcome to all my new followers from Tea on Tuesday!

Wednesdays on the Homefront

So I know it's actually Thursday. Sorry for the quiet week! We've had family in town and been pretty busy enjoying time with them. Pictures coming soon!

Cooking: My mom came over yesterday and we bought cupcakes. One of them was a chocolate cinnamon cupcake that was delicious. I'm inspired to try adding a little cinnamon to my chocolate cupcakes next time!

Cleaning: Friends, my house is a disaster. I cannot seem to keep it clean for the life of me. Also, our carpet smells like mildew. Not sure what that's about. I was having a meltdown with Ben last night on the couch (don't you just love those?!) and I told him how I used to juggle so many things, but can't seem to keep my house in order now. Honestly, 15 grad credits plus an internship plus marriage- yet I can't seem to keep a clean home with a baby. This whole motherhood thing is proving to be more than I expected.

Creating: I've been making dresses and aprons for Ben's cousins this month... until my sewing machine broke last week. I'm so accident prone! But no worries- I'm on to greater things while I wait for it to be mended. I've decided it's time to make a list of projects I'd like to tackle and gifts I'd like to make. Stay tuned for the list in the next few weeks!

Loving: Sleep. I know, every new mom says that. But after a few weeks of Eli sleeping through the night, he chose to take the weekend family was in town to get up every three hours. He's back to his normal hours, plus he and I got a nap in today! It was delightful.

Living: My cousin has been in town this week! She and I haven't seen each other since my wedding and it has been too long. She stayed at our apartment this past weekend and we had a wonderful time reminiscing and catching up. I haven't stayed up that late since college!

Learning: My cousin and I had a lot of talks about family and personal growth. Then during my cry session last night, Ben and I talked about those issues in more detail. I am learning so much about myself right now. I realized I'm living in a dream world sometimes rather than in reality. I realized that I'm expecting perfection out of myself in every situation when that isn't possible. I also realized that relationships are hard work, and sometimes the best thing I can do is take a step back and wait for awhile.

That's all for today, friends! My little man got his 4 month shots today and he's a bit cranky. Have a great Thursday!

Wednesdays on the Homefront

Happy Independence Day! Hope you all enjoy a wonderful day celebrating with family and friends!

Cooking: On the docket this week is barbecue chicken for dinner and nutella banana bread for breakfasts. Delicious! On the banana bread, my only suggestion would be a little less nutella. Ours was a little much, but still delicious! For the chicken, I'm just throwing chicken and barbecue sauce in the crock pot all day on low. Then tonight I'll shred the chicken and put it on hamburger buns.

   

Cleaning: I get a little obsessed with organizing sometimes. After growing up in a home with way too much stuff, I have this weird paranoia about clutter. Now that we have a baby in the house, our apartment is, well, cluttered. And it's driving me crazy! 800 square feet for two adults and a baby is not much, but I know I can make it look neater than it does. Ben pointed out that if we can be clutter-free now, it will be that much easier when we get a house someday. I've checked out some organizing books from the library and I am on a mission!

   

Creating: I've got a couple of aprons in the works for Ben's cousins right now. They were out here for his sister's wedding and asked if I would make some for them. They chose some really cute fabric, and I am looking forward to making them! Look for a tutorial soon.

Loving: The air conditioner! It's been around 100 degrees every afternoon for the past week and I am trying to go outside as little as possible. My hubby is a bit stingy on energy (he's an engineer after all), but even he has agreed it's time for the AC. That cool air blowing on me while I sit inside is the very best!

   

Living: Ben's sister and her new husband leave for their new home in Canada today. We've gotten to spend the past two evenings with them, which has been wonderful! Sometimes life changes in such big ways all at once. We're so happy for them but we'll miss them so much.

   

Learning: To be content. I mentioned above we live in a tiny apartment. We considered moving to something a little larger, but after lots of discussion we're staying in our current apartment for at least another year and a half. I like our apartment, but there are a lot of things I've been frustrated with recently. I've been convicted recently that I need to have a better attitude about our home. I read this post last night and was really challenged to be content. I'm not there quite yet, but hope to continue to work on my attitude.

Wednesdays on the Homefront

Cooking: Last night I baked zucchini bread for Ben. Just one problem: we didn't have any eggs! I've found though, that I can substitute ingredients for the eggs sometimes and it works really well. Just combine 1 tsp baking powder, 1 1/2 T water and  1 1/2 T oil. I wouldn't recommend it for more than one to two eggs, though. Click here for more egg substitutions.

   

Cleaning: I've discovered that if I get up about a half hour before Eli does in the morning, I get so much done! I think that may be my little quiet time to clean the house and enjoy some silence. Now if I could just get to bed early enough so that I wake up when I need to!

   

Creating: My friend Joy came over last week and we both got a lot of sewing done. I finished quite a few things for Eli. I'm so proud of myself! Look for posts coming soon with the pictures. Then over the weekend, Joy and Lacey both came over and we worked on our blogs! I'm so excited to blog with them and chronicle our adventures.

Loving: Eli's smile is one of my very favorite things. When his eyes light up and he gives me that giant, open mouthed smile I fall in love. He's figured this out too, and tries to use that smile to get out of going to bed. Sometimes it works too. 

   

Living: Ben and I have been going through Real Marriage by Mark and Grace Driscoll with our small group. The book has been really good, but the last chapter was incredible. Mark and Grace encourage each couple to go through their life, defining priorities, setting goals and dreaming together. Ben and I are planning to start going through the extensive list of questions the book offers and start really nailing down what our life together looks like.

   

Learning: I've always struggled to stand up for myself in my life, particularly in close relationships. Since Eli was born, this has become an issue again, but I am finding a new sense of strength. As a mother, I have a deep knowledge that I must protect and guard my family. This has allowed me to begin creating some healthy boundaries in my life. The process is difficult, but I am learning!

Wednesdays On the Homefront

Cooking: I have to be honest, I don't think I have cooked anything since last Wednesday. I need to bake some more bread though. Ben loves to have a slice of banana or zucchini bread in the mornings. I'm getting a little tired of those two flavors so I think I'm going to try and find some new recipes. Pinterest time!

   

Cleaning: It's a bad sign when you walk into your bathroom and you know the floor is dirty because you can smell it. The goal this week is to get that bathroom clean! I've struggled to keep up on housework since Eli was born, and it's getting to the point where some things desperately need to be done! Any suggestions for scheduling house cleaning to make it happen?

   

Creating: My friend Joy of The Simple Joy and I went to Panera last night and started brainstorming about projects we can do. We came up with some great ideas for our blogs, Etsy shops, Christmas gifts and wedding/birthday gifts. I am inspired! Our first plan is to spend an evening making cards for all the events of the year. We'll be doing that on a Monday in June, so look for a post about it.

   

Loving: The Next Food Network Star- Every summer I look forward to watching this show. I love the challenges each week, and it inspires me to get in the kitchen! Episodes are posted online every Thursday so you can keep up with it if you're like me and don't have cable. (Design Star and Project Runway are also starting this summer. Hooray!!)

   

Living: My birthday is this week! Ben, Eli and I are going to head out for a much-needed family vacation in the mountains this weekend. I am really looking forward to some time with my guys and enjoying the outdoors.

   

Learning: We have spent a lot of time with family over the past few weeks, and it's been really hard on  Eli (and Ben and I). He gets overwhelmed easily by groups of people. I realized that as his mama it is my job to do what's best for him, even when it makes other upset. I haven't stood up for him like he's needed and he has felt the effects. As strange as it might sound, I didn't process that he needs me most sometimes and I need to be there for him. Since realizing this, I feel a new type of courage coming up in me that I think will help me do what's best for him moving forward.

Wednesdays On the Homefront

Cooking: We made hummus for dinner last night! So delicious. Check out my pin of the recipe we used.
   
Cleaning: Laundry week! We live in a second story apartment, and the laundry is in the basement. As you can imagine, trying to do laundry with a baby is a little difficult. I'm still figuring out a system, but my goal this week is to get the laundry done so at least I have next week off before I have to worry about it again.
   
Creating: I went the Joann Fabrics yesterday. I absolutely love that store. Eli does not-- he cries every time we go. I still had a grand time, though, and came home with some fabric for a new swaddle blanket and a bow tie/ suspenders combo for Eli. Look for pictures and tutorials soon!
   
Loving: Boundaries by Henry Cloud and John Townsend. I can't believe I haven't picked up the book before! It is fantastic and pretty much challenging my socks off.
   
Living: Family comes in to town this week. My sister is graduating from high school, and my mom is hosting a baby shower for me. We'll be driving up to where my parents live and my grandparents and one of my aunts will be joining us. I'm super excited to see my Grammy and aunt!
   
Learning: Eli is working on putting his fist in his mouth this week. It's pretty adorable. He can't always get it in, so a lot of the time he's just opening his mouth wide and waving his arm in the air. Precious!