Gratitude Log- Day 31

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Labor Day Weekend

We are excited to go spend time with good friends beach camping this weekend.  I don't know why the temperature dropped so suddenly but I'm sure we'll still have a good time.

Kissing my Baby

I used to be grossed out watching parents kiss their babies on the mouth.  Now I can't go a day without multiple big wet kisses from Mav.  I was the same way with Adelaide as a baby too.  There is something about baby kisses when they are your own.

Bacon

I would say I'm 90% vegetarian, but bacon gets me every time.  Yum.

Diversity of Thought

Grateful we live in a country where diversity of thought can be celebrated.  As this political season heats up I'm grateful to have friends on both ends of the political spectrum who stand by their convictions.  I'm grateful for the opportunity I have to study out issues and vote my conscience as well.

This Gratitude Challenge

Don't get me wrong, I'm glad today is the last day, but knowing I would write five things I'm grateful for each night helped to keep my perspective optimistic throughout the day.  It's always a good exercise to count your blessings and take time to notice the small things that make life wonderful.  

Gratitude Log- Day 30

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Anchorman

It may be old but that film still makes me laugh every time I watch it.  

Power

Our power went out tonight and made me realize how reliant we really are on electricity. Thankful that we don't normally have power outages but just in case I'm going to stock up on candles.

Lemon Cookies

I am hooked on these, they are delicious!

Role Reversal

Today I took away my chapstick from Adelaide and she asked me to give it back. When I did not she said in a very serious tone, "You have two choices.  You can give it back to me or I'm going to take it away from you." 

Dress Up

Adelaide has become into dressing up lately and I think it is adorable.  She loves to wear princess dresses and her new amazing sparkly heels from Naomi. 

Gratitude Log- Day 29

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Play Dates

Mommies get to chat, kids are entertained. It's a win-win.

Service

The lyrics "in serving I am blessed, in giving I receive" are so true.

A Clean Kitchen

I love having a clean kitchen, even if it won't be long before I create chaos in there again.

Warm Summer Nights

They make me want to eat dinner under twinkle lights every night.

My Grandpa Dahlin

I miss him and have been thinking about him lately.  I loved his optimism and passion for life. 

Gratitude Log- Day 28

Five things I'm grateful for today:

The Last 10 Months

Today is Mav's 10 month mark and I'm so happy he is a part of our family.  I love his sweet smile, his chipped front tooth, his squirmy moves, his cute claps and waves and his giggles.  I was so anxious for him to come into this world and he did not disappoint!

Blondeness

Today I got my hair done and good old Jenny did it just the way I like.  The last person I went to charged twice as much and did a horrible job so I'm quite pleased.

Chapstick

I drive Rick crazy by misplacing one per day but I really do love chapstick.

Eating at my Parents

What is more comfortable and wonderful than eating dinner at your parents? Pretty much nothing I think.  My dad grilled some amazing shish kebabs and my mom set the table up cute as always... never gets old.

Documentaries

When Rick and I aren't watching Doogie we check out documentaries.. always interesting and enlightening.

Gratitude Log- Day 27

Five things I've grateful for today:

My Kindle

I got one for Christmas and am finally starting to make good use of it.

My Double Bob

Love being able to go for walks, jogs or outings with both my kids strapped it.

This Phase of My Life

This song came on my ipod on my run this morning and got me thinking about how every stage of life is filled with goodness, and how grateful I am for phase of my life... Being young and in love, raising two small children, working hard to pay back loans, learning to cook and care for others, living back in California and long, busy days filled with laughter.

Soup

There is something so comfortable and homey about having soup and bread for dinner.

Homemade Granola

I made my first batch of pumpkin spice granola last night and I can't stop snacking on it.  

Gratitude Log- Day 26

Five things I'm Grateful for today:

Church

It is nice to be able to take time out of your week to worship and regain perspective.

My husband, dad and brother are alive!

They did a race this morning swimming from Alcatraz to the shore in SF.  It was really choppy out but the whole gang swam the entire escape route without being eaten by sharks or drowning... quite an accomplishment!

Eric, Anthony, Gerald, Curt & Rick

The Ferry Building

While the boys were swimming my mom and I walked to the Ferry building.  That is my kind of place, I love all the restaurants, bakeries and little shops.

Feeling Settled

I've lived in P-town for about five months now and I'm just now starting to feel settled.  It's a good feeling.

Preschool Plans

I've always loved the idea of doing a preschool co-op with other moms but I wasn't sure if I would find people to do it with in time for fall.  I was so happy when I was approached by some friends at church to do one! We are going to start in the next couple weeks and I know Adelaide will just love it.

Gratitude Log- Day 25

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Pizza

I honestly think I could eat it every day and still enjoy it.

Teaching

I'm excited about an opportunity to teach girls each Sunday at church.  

Green Trees

There is something so refreshing about all the green trees in the area.  They make me happy.

Claps & Waves

Those are Mav's new tricks and they are pretty adorable.

Booster Seats

We finally got one for Adelaide and meal times are much more pleasant now.

Gratitude Log- Day 24

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Weekends

So excited it is Friday and that I get to hang out with Rick all day for the next two days :)

Podcasts

How did people get through mundane chores before they existed?

60's Music

The concert tonight in the park was full of oldies but goodies.  Adelaide surprisingly slept through the entire thing. Funny girl, we can't get her to take naps or sleep through the night, maybe we should try playing Jerry Lee Lewis songs at bedtime?

Family

That's what it's all about.

Dr. Suess

Definitely my favorite children's book author.  Adelaide & I read "What was I Scared of" almost every night so if she ever runs into a pair of empty pale green pants she'll know what to do. 

Gratitude Log- Day 23

Five things I'm grateful for today:

The Postal Service

Even though I'm a little untrusting of them (ever since they failed to deliver an important labor-of-love package) I still love getting mail and think it's time to start sending more love out into the world through this service.  I am really good at emailing Jessica every week but I think it is time to start sending her more letters and packages.

Projects

I love starting new projects and one that has been brewing in my head for a long time is starting to come together... it is a food related blog and I'll share it on here soon :)

Sick Kids

Okay I'm not really grateful when my kids are sick but Maverick has a slight fever and I have to say that I love all the extra cuddle time.

Bleach

I would have a ton of white clothing casualties without it!

Staying Home with my Kids

I know it's not for everyone and that some people want to and can't so this can be a sensitive subject, but I am grateful to be able to stay home with my kids while they are young.  I know this time of their lives flies by so it's nice to be able to enjoy it with them.

Gratitude Log- Day 22

Five things I'm Grateful for Today:

Kids Club at Whole Foods

I never knew about this until today but I guess if you go to the customer service desk and mention kids club they give you a snack for your kids to enjoy while you shop.  Genius!

Lists

I love making lists and am grateful for how productive they can make me if I remember to follow up on them.  

Doogie Howser M.D.

My weeknights would not be the same without him.

Rick's Long Hair

It's growing out and I think it's so cute that way.

My Brother in Law Nick

Happy Birthday! Grateful to be related to you!

Gratitude Log- Day 21

Five things I'm grateful for today:

A Clean Car

It's awesome having a husband who used to own an auto detailing company :)

The Cheesecake Factory

Went there for girls night tonight and their lemon torte dessert was amazing.  I declined sharing a dessert with a friend because I said I was going to bring home half of mine to Rick but then I ate the whole thing, whoops.

Maverick's Snorts

He has been making snorting sounds all day followed by giggles and it makes me laugh.

Baby Steps

Maverick has been taking lots of steps lately and even if it feels like he's growing up too fast it is so fun to watch.

A New Apron

My SIL sewed me an adorable apron as a belated birthday gift and I just love it.

Gratitude Log- Day 20

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Poop in the Toilet

Sorry if that's TMI but we've been working hard to get Adelaide potty trained and today she finally got one in whole.

Bribery

It works! Adelaide was motivated by a pink and purple lollypop to further her potty training skills.

Water Parks

Better than a regular park, not as chaotic as a swimming pool.... I'm a big fan.

Agreeing to Disagree

It is nice to be able to engage in dialogue with people and attempt to understand each other's view points even if  we don't all agree in the end.  I enjoy trying to broaden my perspective and hope that I can sometimes do the same for others.

Family Night

We try to spend time as a family together on Monday nights and tonight we let Adelaide decide what we'd do.  She picked going out for frozen yogurt and we fully supported that choice.

Gratitude Log- Day 19

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Figs

I have always wanted to try them and yesterday they were at Whole Foods. They weren't quite as good as I imagined but I am glad I can finally say I've had one.  I have a feeling they weren't as ripe as they could have been and have heard they are best directly off the tree.

Phones

Sometimes you don't appreciate things until they're gone.  I cannot find my phone anywhere, I think I may have left it at church but honestly I'm not sure.  Where are my brains lately?

Progress

I'm no historian but I've been thinking lately about how glad I am to live in a time where I'm not viewed as property, I can vote, and we have an African American president among other things.  I'm grateful for the progress we have made as a society and am so looking forward to future progress as well.  I'm not one to be satisfied with the status quo generally speaking and am drawn to the quote, "Without discontent there can be no progress." There are some things in life that leave me 'discontent' but in a motivating way that leaves me hungry for improvements.

The Liahona Foundation

When I first learned about this non-profit I couldn't sleep the entire night and kept waking up Rick to tell him more about it.  Basically, they help feed malnourished LDS children in parts of the world where they have fallen through the cracks of both the government and church programs.  It makes me ill to think about the children that suffer in this way and I'm excited to start volunteering with them.  I will be coordinating with a Stake in Guatemala for now but I hope to get more involved as time goes on. 

Symphony Chocolate Bars

I found one in my freezer tonight and it's gone now.

Gratitude Log- Day 18

Five things I'm grateful for today:

♥ Adelaide ♥

That girl brightens up my life. She is bursting with energy, creativity, curiosity, mischievousness, craziness, kindness and love. She makes me laugh and smile every day and is such a cute older sister.  I can't believe it was three years ago that we welcomed her into our family; on one hand it seems like just yesterday and on the other I can hardly remember life without her.  I'm so thankful for the sweet little girl she is and am excited to see the person she becomes... with her determination and drive I know she could really do anything.

Mimi

Grateful that my mom is such a great grandma to my kids.  Adelaide loves watching movies like the Little Mermaid with her, throwing rocks together in the creek, going shopping with her, visiting her house and pretend calling her on the phone.  We were lucky enough to have Eric, my dad and my mom come stay over night last night and be a part of Adelaide's birthday today!  We had a great pancake breakfast and strolled around downtown with her pink and purple balloons.

Yard Sale Finds

A local church hosted a large yard sale today and we found this baby for $10.  It needs a little TLC but I'm pretty sure once we clean it and refill the bottom cushion it will be amazing.

Rick's Packing Skills

After we bought the chair we picked up some great finds at Home Goods- a floor lamp, a huge rug and a small dresser.  Somehow Rick packed all of that plus all of us in our tiny Carolla.  It was impressive and hopefully he can do it again since we are returning most of it (things didn't look quite like we hoped they would).

Clouds

Today while I was running I noticed how beautiful and fluffy the clouds were looking.  I was reminded of cloud gazing as a child with my Grandma. I used to love laying in the grass and finding all sorts of shapes within the clouds. 

Gratitude Log- Day 17

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Terribles Twos are Over!

Today was Adelaide's  last day being two... we made it! Sometimes I consider myself lucky to be alive still :) Now onto "tantrum threes."

Concerts in the Park

Pleasanton hosts a concert in the park downtown every Friday night during the summer and we love having a picnic, dancing and walking with Adelaide to the candy store or ice cream shop. 

Anthropologie's Return Policy

One pair of pants that I absolutely love started pulling and tearing around the pockets even though I haven't had them that long.  I was able to exchange them today for a different color (since the original was no longer in stock) and I'm one happy costumer.

Duck Ponds

I always loved feeding white bread to ducks as a kid and I love taking Adelaide to feed the ducks even though only legit duck food is allowed nowadays.   She loves to walk around tossing food near the ducks like she owns the place and when they snap at her fingers with their beaks she makes the funniest face of shock and disgust and says "Dangit!" 

Big Hair Flowers

Adelaide was very clear about wanting to wear this particular flower on our errands today, I think it is literally the size of her head.  Everywhere we went ladies oohed and ahhed over her.  What a character.

Gratitude Log- Day 16

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Living Near Rick's Work

I'm grateful Rick works so close to where we live for so many reasons:  Rick is usually home for breakfast and dinner, we can stop by his office whenever we want or easily meet up for lunch, and he can come home on occasion as well.  Just this week I somehow locked myself outside on my patio (we live on the second story) and I was able to call him to come home and let me back in the house before my children did anything too crazy. (All they did was stare at me in horror and bang on the glass doors).

Floradix

This supplement makes a huge difference for me since I'm prone to being low on iron and B12.  I feel like I have better energy levels when I remember to take it.

Strawberries

My strawberry plants are starting to ripen and we are loving them.

Movie Night in the Park

Tonight we watched a movie on a huge screen in the park; they have it here every Thursday during the summer but this was the first time we went.  I couldn't believe we made it through the whole thing but Adelaide loved it and Rick magically rocked Maverick to sleep.

Don't know what Mav's expression is about here, he actually did have a good time :)

Mav's Smile

So adorable.

Gratitude Log- Day 15

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Meals Prepared Ahead

Tonight I we had black bean enchiladas that I made ahead of time earlier in the week.  They are really yummy (as long as you double the sauce)... It's nice to have a night off cooking!

Sprouts

If you have one near you and haven't checked it out then you need to! It is the best grocery store ever; it has tons of produce for great prices and on Wednesdays they honor the sales from the previous week and the coming week.

Chobani Passion Fruit Greek Yogurt

I thought I was too cool for this whole greek yogurt fad but today I tried some of Adelaide's Passion Fruit yogurt and it was amazing.  It reminded me of Australia and I think I'm hooked.

Long Drives

We spent a good amount of time today driving between errands and I'm grateful for those moments chatting and singing in the car with Adelaide and enjoying the beautiful scenery. 

Chickens

Today we were early picking up our CSA produce so we fed the chickens at the farm to kill some time.  Adelaide had fun although she seriously almost killed a chicken with a squash.  One day when I have lots of land I will have my own chicken coop.

Gratitude Log- Day 14

Five things I'm grateful for today:

The Sound of Ocean Waves

Nothing beats the real thing but lately Rick has been playing ocean sounds on night while we sleep and it is pretty relaxing and amazing.... thanks Dad for the tip!

My Phone

It is so great to be able to connect with friends who live far and chat about life together.  It's second best to actually spending time with them in person.

Half Marathons

I decided today that I am going to run another half marathon, I hope actually setting the goal will motivate me to stick with my training schedule.  I plan to run the Santa Barbara Half Marathon November 10th.

Family Strolls

Today on my running schedule I was supposed to do cross training of walking or running 2 miles.  I walked with my family downtown Pleasanton for two miles although we did stop in the middle to buy and eat some frozen yogurt.  I think I will still count it :)

Frozen Yogurt

Yum.

Gratitude Log- Day 13

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Craigslist

We are finally getting around to making our home feel like a home and selling things that we don't like anymore.  Tomorrow someone is coming by to pick up some of our old furniture and I'm so excited to be rid of it!

Air Conditioning

It has been hot lately and I'm glad we have a way to keep it cool inside.

Homemade Pizza

A family favorite.  Tonight Adelaide helped me make a couple pizzas for dinner using a crust filled with herbs from our garden.  One was topped with potato, shallots and chives and the other with bell pepper, pineapple and basil.  Yum.

Teeter Totters

There is a park in town with a teeter totter that Adelaide loves to play at.  She sits on one end while Mav and I sit on the other and we just go up and down while we sing songs.  I seriously think she could do that all day, it is pretty cute.

My Grandparents

They live in Idaho but I call them often; it is great to hear about what they are up to and they always brighten up my day.  They are some of the most loving and genuine individuals I know.

Gratitude Log- Day 12

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Naps

I had a long one today snuggling up with little Mav and it was wonderful.

Amazon

Sometimes you only remember the random things you really need to buy late at night and thank goodness Amazon is there to place your order at that very moment.  

My Sewing Machine

I pulled it out tonight and put it on my desk to motivate me to start another project soon.  I'm thinking of making these.

Comforting a Child

I love that when Adelaide is scared, sick or hurt she asks for me, and that just by holding or kissing her I can make her feel better.  I think it might be one of my favorite things about being a mom.

A Husband that Vacuums

...while holding our baby.  Amazing? I think yes.  I swear I do some housework, vacuuming just isn't my strong suite. 

Gratitude Log- Day 11

Five things I'm grateful for today:

The Dammit Race

It has been tradition that my dad and I run this whenever we are both in town for it.  This year Eric ran it with us and totally creamed us.  My time wasn't that good and I didn't train at all this year but something about races always motivates me to run more so hopefully I can get back in the habit and train for a half marathon soon.

A Running Companion

This man named Skip was pretty much the same speed as me today on the trail.  I would pass him on the downhill and then he would pass me on the flat parts.  I had fallen behind him when we got to the final lap around the track but I sprinted and beat him at the last second.  We bonded over the fact that we were each other's running pacers and even though I got him in the end he is obviously the real winner given that he is 65 years old.  I hope I can still run that way when I'm that age.

My Newton Shoes

Today I was grateful for my Newton running shoes.  They help me run in a more barefoot style and are really comfortable.  They happened to have a booth at the track after the race which made me happy and a little nostalgic for Boulder.

Joanna Brookes

I have been following her work for a while now and wish I had known her during my time at SDSU (she is a professor there).  I had the opportunity of briefly meeting her today in San Francisco and she is lovely.  I felt like a weirdo asking her to take a picture with me but that didn't stop me.

Redbox

I'm excited to go snuggle up with Rick and watch a movie right now :)

Gratitude Log- Day 10

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Date Night

Tonight my parents watched Adelaide and Mav while Rick and I went out.  My parents were surprised that we arrived home so early (11pm) but we are tired!  It was great to have some time together without the kids, thanks Mom and Dad!

Swim Parties

Swimming with friends makes it feel like summer. Today I met up with three friends and their kids and we swam for a couple of hours.  It was chaotic and hot and so much fun.

Dancing

Tonight we danced with tons of old people while a Santana cover band played.  There was this guy really getting into it that we got a kick out of.  Sometimes I don't feel like dancing, I'm not sure if I am self conscious or just lazy but then I noticed a man clapping to the music while sitting in a wheel chair and I realized that being able to dance is a beautiful gift... even I look like an idiot I will embrace the opportunity to dance!

Gelato

Rick and I are ice cream freaks and eat Ben and Jerry's like it's going out of style but tonight we switched it up for strawberries & cream and snickers gelato.  Amazing.

Food Trucks

They are the greatest and tonight we checked out this place in Los Gatos where like ten food trucks were all lined up with tables and chairs and dancing in the middle.  What a great idea; Rick and I both agree we could get used to going there every Friday night! 

Gratitude Log- Day 9

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Singing to my Children

It's no secret that I don't have a good singing voice.  I loved to sing as a child but was told daily by my brothers that I really shouldn't sing (typical of older brothers don't you think?).  But it wasn't just them; after a musical try-out in middle school a friend who was present asked me if I was tone-deaf, and he wasn't kidding. Up until now I've never had anyone ask me to sing for them so I love it when Adelaide asks me to sing to her before bed.  I realize that it is likely just a ploy to stay up a little later but I don't care.  We have a great time singing lullabies, church songs and disney melodies together. 

My Freezer

I  have been freezing and storing seasonal fruit in giant ziploc bags.  Adelaide loves to snack on frozen treats and I love to eat them with yogurt or use them in smoothies.  We have lots of delicious blackberries piling up in our freezer right now because we can't eat all that we pick each night fast enough. 

Locks

Today I discovered a new trick; I locked all the doors to the bedrooms and bathrooms so my kids could only play in the living room.  Adelaide is like a quick and destructive tornado sometimes and this definitely limited her toy explosions.  I know it will only last until she figures out how to unlock the doors herself but I will enjoy it while I can.

An Attitude Adjustment
I woke up this morning pretty much hating life.  Adelaide woke up at 3 this morning and never went back to sleep (she is still up right now and it is 9:00pm... that girl never sleeps) and I was just so exhausted.  But at one point I decided to get over it and in the end I'm amazed to say today was a great day.  Thankful that my attitude can often shape the outcome of my day.

Forts

There is no way my kids would simply play under my kitchen table for over an hour but if I throw a sheet over it and call it a fort then they will play under there for hours.  I was very grateful for this trick today while I caught up on some things.

Gratitude Log- Day 8

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Reliable Recipes

As much as I love trying out new dishes, I also really love having a few tried and true recipes to lean on when I'm not feeling so adventurous.  This Eggplant and Zucchini Lasagna has become a classic in our home although I often switch out the zucchini for whatever type of squash I receive in my CSA.  

Easy Lunches

For days that we don't have leftovers I've been trying to figure out an easy lunch that Rick can take to work.  I like the idea I've seen floating around on pinterest of putting salads in mason jars. I tried it out today using arugula, black beans, quinoa, bell peppers and red onion but in the future I think I will add more variety. Rick loved it and I think I'll start making these salads each week so that we can just quickly grab them when needed.

Scenic Runs

I went for a jog today and as always it made me feel whole again.  I love the feeling I get after running... I always feel less crazy and stressed after a good jog.  Grateful that I have the health to be able to enjoy my time running. 

Wild Turkeys

I often see them when I go running in the nearby neighborhoods and their goofy little wattles remind me of Richard's fetish from the show Ally McBeal.

Eugene England

His personal essays are a source of inspiration to me and I find myself reflecting on his ideas often.

Gratitude Log- Day 7

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Girls's Night Out

The girls from my church do a girl's night out every couple weeks.  They have been great for getting to know new people and it's always nice to get a little break from the crazy kids.  Tonight we shared snacks and stories while we sort of played Catch Phrase.  

Giggles

My two kids giggle all day.  It is so cute to me maybe because it reminds me of Jessica and I (you can't stop us from laughing when we are around each other, it is actually kind of embarrassing sometimes).  I feel like sibling love is at it's best when laughter is involved.

Homemade Bread

I love making homemade whole wheat bread.  In the summer sometimes I avoid doing it because I don't want to turn the oven on, but today was just cool enough.  I love the way the house smells after.

Shopping Carts with Kid Cars

These make shopping trips more pleasant and more crazy at the same time.  Adelaide and Mav have a great time turning their wheels and smiling at other shoppers and I can concentrate on getting the items on my list.

Failing

 I fail pretty much on a daily basis in one way or another but I really do think failures are something to be grateful for.  They are humbling, teach valuable lessons and often open up doors to new opportunities.

Gratitude Log- Day 6

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Cars

I love that all I have to do is hop in my car and within an hour I can be in a number of really awesome places.  Thank you Mr. Ford.

Stars

Recent camping trips have reminded me how much I enjoy gazing at the stars.  I especially love when I see one shooting across the sky.

Honest People

Tonight I was a little bit of a ditz and left my bag in an ice cream shop in Santa Cruz and didn't realize until I was in my car.  I thought that someone might have taken it or at least grabbed my wallet but when I rushed back it was exactly where I left it and untouched.

Emails from Jessica

Every monday morning I wake up to an email from Jessica who is currently a missionary in Portugal.  I miss her so much and love to hear about her new friends and adventures there.

Going on the Big Dipper with Rick

Tonight we went to the boardwalk with family and Rick and I rode the Big Dipper twice.  I've been on that ride lots of times of but hands down it is the most fun sitting next to Rick who squeals and giggles like a school child the whole time.

Gratitude Log- Day 5

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Shady Trees

Particularly the one outside my church building.  Maverick and I spent a big chunk of church sitting on the lawn in the shade of this beautiful tree since church is pretty much pointless when your child is nine months old... he can't sit still and makes really loud noises.

Toffee & chocolate covered almonds

These are a new discovery for me and they are amazing.

Sunday morning brunch

We don't have church until 1 in the afternoon so I love eating a late breakfast with my family.  Today we made whole wheat crepes with plums and peaches and homemade whipped cream.  I love sitting around the table together while eating good food.

The way Maverick looks at me

He is such a momma's boy and looks at me like he is in love.  I know he'll grow out of it so I'm just soaking it in.

Google hangout

Even though it can sometimes be a little spotty it is so nice being able to keep in touch with family that live far away.  Adelaide especially loves to play peek-a-boo and show off her toys through the screen. Right now she is chatting with her grandpa in Arizona.  Technology is really amazing.

Gratitude Log- Day 4

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Sleeping in

It has been an exhausting couple of weeks so sleeping in this morning was needed and appreciated.

Paint

Grateful that you can turn ugly furniture into something cute and fresh.  I repainted a chair and some shelves today.  I'm not quite sure about the chair color, but if I decide against it I can just paint it another color I guess.

Home made ice cream sandwiches

Today I ate at least four.  Even though I feel a little sick now, they were totally delicious and worth it.  I might just go have another one while I watch an episode of Doogie Howser with Rick.  

My dishwasher

Ours was broken recently and now that it is in working condition again I am in heaven.  Doing dishes by hand all the time is no fun.

Rick's mad housekeeping skills

Today while I was painting in our garage Rick loaded the dishwasher, cleaned the kitchen, did three loads of laundry, swept the floor and cleaned up the kids toys.  He puts me to shame.

Gratitude Log- Day 3

Five things I'm grateful for today:

Baths

This may be too much information but when I'm confronted with a nasty diaper I often rely on a bath to help me through.  It's gotten to the point that when Adelaide has a bad diaper she tells me, "Mom, I need a bath." Sometimes wipes alone just don't cut it.

Project Runway

I was pleasantly surprised to find out that a new season has begun.  I have a couple episodes to catch up on and I can't wait.  I love Tim Gunn and wish we were friends or at least that he was my fashion mentor, I could use one.

Rick's Job

I feel so lucky and blessed that Rick has a steady job in this terrible economy.

Our Garage

This is the first place we've lived that has a garage.   It is so nice to not have bikes and camping gear crammed inside our home.

Naomi

We have been friends since 7th grade and I cherish our friendship.  She came to visit us today and we chatted over dinner, made Adelaide dress up for a fashion show, styled Mav's hair in a mohawk, went for a walk and baked peanut butter cup cookies.  Adelaide just loves her 'Nao.'

Gratitude Log- Day 2

Five things that I'm grateful for today:

A Date with Maverick

Today Adelaide went to a movie with her Grandma and I ran some errands with Maverick.  I don't get to spend much time with just him and it was really nice being able to give him my full attention.  He is so smiley and giggles every time you look at him.  I love his open mouth kisses... probably gross to onlookers but they melt my heart.

Pinterest

I don't spend too much time on Pinterest anymore, but I am grateful for all the inspirational ideas I find on there.  From recipes to family activities to decorating ideas, I can always count on something in my boards to make my day a little more productive.  Today I baked these cookies that I spotted on Pinterest, they are quickly becoming a family favorite.

Friendly People

Today our bagger at the grocery store was so friendly and seemed genuinely interested in how my day was going.  He asked questions about Maverick and was just really kind.  Interesting how when you don't get out as much little interactions really can help make your day.   

Neighbors

We love our neighbors.  We haven't lived here long but already feel like they're lifelong friends.  Adelaide loves to drop by and say hello, pick their flowers (I'm trying hard to get her to stop but they just too tempting for her) and give them fresh cookies she helped bake.   They watered my plants while I was of town and helped my stubborn eggplants to grow.  I'm grateful for their friendship.

Ripe

This book is amazing.  Seriously.  Everything I've made from it so far is delicious and I can't wait to try out more.  Tonight I made the quinoa & red pepper chili, the tangerine & avocado salsa and the kumquat arugula salad and they were all phenomenal.  The book and the author Cheryl, who I had the pleasure of meeting, are an inspiration to me.

31 Days of Gratitude

There is a challenge floating around on facebook to post 5 things you are grateful for each day in August and I thought I'd do it here on my blog.   I love the idea of taking a few moments during this busy summer month to remember my daily blessings, big and small.  

Fresh Blackberries

We discovered that they grow wildly near where we live and we have been having such a great time picking and eating them.  

 Family Visits

My mother in law Nicole, her two cute kids Nathan and Lanie, and their sweet dog Gracie are visiting.  Adelaide just loves having them here to play with and we are all enjoying the company.

 Swimming Pools

Today we had such a fun time swimming at the pool.  Maverick loves to splash around and the rest of the kids loved goofing off while Nicole and I had a great chat.  

Ibuprofen

 I have been getting headaches lately (maybe I'm not drinking enough water?) and I seriously am so grateful for this medicine that helps me to get on with my day.  Sometimes it's the smallest things that can make the biggest difference.

 Prayer

I love how prayer brings peace to my soul and helps me remember what is important and who all my blessings come from.