Living So Abundantly

A Few of my Favorite Things

2013-04-03T20:27:00.000-04:00

Simple Organized Living inspired me to share some of my favorite things. While I haven't been blogging much{busy with my little guy--so fun!}, I wanted to jump in with this.

Boppy Water Resistant Protective Cover

My friend told me she got one of these, and I got right on that. Instead of having to wash your entire Boppy because of a blow out or a major spit up, you just pull off your slip cover and water resistant protective slipcover. Genius! This saves on your Boppy--big time!

Braun ThermoScan Thermometer

My good friend was a pediatric nurse. She recommended a Braun ear thermometer, as the practice she worked at used one. Now, I will also mention that she would want me to say that most pediatricians will ask for a rectal temperature reading if you call mentioning a fever(and your child is younger than 6 months); however, since this is an exact read, I only take it in his ear. If the temperature is high, I will take a rectal temperature(with a different thermometer, of course!); then I can tell the doctor that I took a rectal reading. Who wants to do that every time you think your baby has a fever, though? This has saved many rectal readings. :) For the skeptics, I have tested it by taking a rectal reading and an ear reading, and it was the exact same reading as it says! I appreciate the disposable lens filters. That enables our entire family to use this thermometer without having to worry about cleaning it every time.

California Baby Shampoo and Body Wash

This is well worth every penny. Okay, so I didn't buy it: I received it as a shower gift. ;) I also have another back-up. The pump makes it ever-so-easy to use while trying to wash a baby. Your skin is the biggest organ of your body, so I wanted my baby to have something that was safe, yet effective. It has gotten in his eyes while rinsing his hair, and he has never shed a tear. Ever. He smells so clean afterward, and it's gentle on his skin. I still have some left in the first bottle, and he's 4-1/2 months old. It's all I've used on him so far. So, while the price may be intimidating, it lasts for a looong time.

Crocs Flip Flops

Last year, Moneysavingmom.com listed Croc flip flops for $15. I couldn't pass up the deal. They were my shoe of choice during my pregnancy because of their great support. During labor, they were perfect! Let's just say that amniotic fluid went everywhere while I bounced away on the birthing ball, and my Crocs didn't get ruined. ;) TMI, maybe? After a good disinfecting, they are back in their groove--on my feet!

Vtech Rhyme and Discover Book

My baby loves this book{great gift from Papa!}. I use it to distract him as we do his stretches(to help his Torticollis). We "read" it during Tummy Time and story time. He likes to watch me push the interactive buttons throughout the book. He also enjoys pushing the animal heads as they light up. Fun!
I especially like that part of the songs are recorded and sung, and music is played for other parts of the song so they can sing it(when he's older...Mama sings it now!). This would make a great gift for someone. :)

What are some of your favorite things right now?

Little Remedies $1.00 off Coupon

2013-04-01T18:59:00.003-04:00

Click here to print a $1.00 off coupon for any Little Remedies product. We use their Infant Fever Reliever, and that works well.

Baby Activity -- Same Shape, Different Size!

2013-03-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

Skill Focus: Sensory
Age Appropriate: 3 month+

One of my son's favorite toys is the blue ball that he is holding(from Papa!). The holes allow for an easy grip, which is great for babies. He flings it all around(unintentionally at this point). In the months ahead, I have no doubt that he will fling it for the pure enjoyment of watching Mommy and Daddy pick it up. ;)

The other little ball(Baby Einstein Activity Balls) has tiny balls inside that make for a fun rattling sound. Exposing your baby to different sizes of the same shape enhances their sensory skills and challenges them to hold their hands differently for the different sizes(working their fine motor skills, too!).

Look around your house to find items with similar shapes so your baby can hold. As always, be careful that you monitor their play and watch the size. Doctors recommend that babies shouldn't hold items that could fit through a toilet paper roll tube(choking hazard).

Baby Activities -- Material Swap

2013-02-28T14:04:00.001-05:00

Skill Focus: Sensory
Age Appropriate: 2 months+

While reading other baby activity posts, you might see a repeating theme--reading! Dave Ramsey, a financial guru, shares Charlie Jones's quote: "You are the same today as you'll be in five years except for two things: the books you read and the people you meet."

Books can change you, too. So why not start young? I loved this book that a friend bought E, because it has different materials throughout it for him to touch. It's neat to see his reactions. Sometimes his facial expression looks as if nothing happened when he touches the material. Other times, his eyebrows furrow, and he looks very serious.

Of course, I enjoy toys as much as E. I have a very short attention span, so that works well with a baby. ;) We have a bucket of toys that he loves to play with. I try to keep different materials flowing through his hands, so that his sensory skills are getting sharpened. He tends to enjoy touching soft things while chewing on hard materials at this point. Although, Ele(pronounced El--ee), his blue elephant can often be found in his mouth. I guess she's a favorite.

Notice the Grab and Stack Blocks that are on the floor. They have different materials such as tags(made from a harder material), ribbons, felt, silky-ish material on a fish fin, and other materials. He likes the different sounds they make as well. Two of them have bells inside, while two of them crinkle.

What are some of your baby's favorite toys?

Baby Activities -- Puppets and Reading

2013-02-18T16:54:00.003-05:00

E's first smile was at Target when I showed him this book. I had to get it for him. Well, Papa did(Christmas money, check!). =)

Skill Focus: Visual Stimulation
Age Appropriate: Newborn+

Puppets are a great way to incorporate 3-D visuals and fun while reading.

When choosing books, it's good to think about how it will add to your child's development. I can already tell that E is a visual learner. Okay, okay, perhaps the teacher in me is over-evaluating, but really, my husband even picked up that he is a visual learner.

As a parent, find out how your baby/child learns. Then run with that, but don't forget to strengthen other areas of learning. Is your child a visual learner? Get books with bright colors and interesting pictures. An oral learner? Audio books are great for that! It will keep them interested in reading. Put your pride aside. Not every child is going to sit down to read a book. Mine "reads" at this point, because he can't crawl/walk yet to get away from a book--haha! Hands on learners--pop up books are GREAT! It keeps those hands busy while learning.

What you love, your children will love. Do they see you reading? I hope so! Whether it's the newspaper or an article on-line, it's so important for your kids to see you reading, too. And I'm not just talking about facebook status updates. Speaking to myself, here!

I'm reading through the Bible in 90 days, so that's been keeping me busy. I've also been reading National Geographic and Guidepost magazines. When I finish reading the Bible in 90 days, I'll start reading it all over again(not in 90 days, though!). Then I'll be getting my hands on some books I've downloaded to my Kindle.

What are you currently reading?

Puppets and reading all in one--perfect!

Linked to Blue Mondays

Baby Activities -- Rattles

2013-02-16T08:42:00.000-05:00

He especially loves the taste and texture of the trunk. ;)

Skill Focus: Hand-eye Coordination
Age Appropriate: 2 Months+

Before giving the baby a rattle, it's good to hold your baby while showing him/her the object. This helps as they develop hand-eye coordination.

As your baby opens his/her hand, place the rattle in it. It's great to expose them to different materials, so it's important to include different rattles to help them with their sensory skills. Who says a baby isn't continually learning?

Giving both hands a turn! ;)

Their grip and/or attention span may not be long, so just go with the flow.

Oh, so good!

What are your baby's favorite rattles?

Please remember to check out my disclosure policy. As always, check with your baby's doctor with any questions/concerns.

Baby Activities -- Tummy Time Fun

2013-02-08T18:18:00.001-05:00

Skill Focus: Gross Motor Skills
Age Appropriate: Newborn+

Tummy time has not always brought smiles in our home. In fact, it was my worst nightmare at one point. I hated seeing my little guy crying. Screaming. Kicking his legs. Yet, his doctor kept telling me over and over that he needed tummy time. Since the week he was born. But did he really? After what I thought were failed attempts, I was ready to just skip over tummy time for a while. I mean, he wasn't going to be crawling for half a year, right?

Then we found out E has torticollis. Tummy time was no longer something I could do lightly. He needed this to strengthen his neck muscles. There seemed to be a purpose for this now, other than preparing him to crawl in the far-off months ahead. That motivated me. A lot.

Just because I was motivated didn't mean my little guy was. Have you ever done tummy time as an adult? I honestly can't make it as long as he can. It's hard work!

So I try to help the 'lil guy out. ;)

He loves his baby einstein. The rattles keep his attention.

Rolling up a towel or blanket helps give him extra support. This helped him to last longer during tummy time. Since we have to do six ten minute sessions a day, this was a must.

He loves his dog that his papa bought him. The songs are contagious, and he loves when I sing, too The blinking heart also helps distract him. Toys and singing are great distractions!

A friend on facebook posted a picture of her baby watching a dvd. I loved the idea, and tada! Daddy had fun pointing out the different things on the screen while watching with E. As an educator, that made my heart skip a beat(okay, so I'm a drama queen!).

It thrills me that E loves to "read." He is so much fun. Because he has torticollis, we try to keep things to his left to strengthen that muscle! However, do keep things centered or try to move his focus to his right as well. We don't want those muscles to weaken, either!

I will be doing a post about exposing your baby to different materials. This really gets him into "deep thought." While he doesn't necessarily have perfect hand-eye coordination yet, just moving his arms can knock these around. Here, he is reaching out to touch them. What a guy! Also, notice that he is propped on the Boppy. This is great when they get bigger. When they are too small, it is hard on their back, as the arch is greater.

While tummy time isn't his favorite activity, it is necessary. It has helped him so much with plagiocephaly from the torticollis, too! The flat spot is still there, but tummy time helps so much. He is enjoying it more, and that means the world to me. Making something that isn't fun more enjoyable is a must for me!

As always, check with your baby's doctor. ;)

What do you do for your baby's tummy time? I'd love to hear ideas and incorporate them into his tummy time activities.

Please remember to check out my disclosure policy. As always, check with your baby's doctor.

Stain Lifter for Baby Clothes

2013-02-02T15:48:00.000-05:00

I happened to see this product in the store one day and decided to give it a try. I will not turn back now. Let me let the pictures do most of the talking.

My sweet boy was sporting this onesy.

Back side of said onesy. It's not a Picasso, but it sure is a work of art, isn't it?

I use All Free and Clear as my detergent now, and I had scrubbed the shirt with the Fels-Naptha bar. That's it. Whether you let it sit for a day(with treatment) or throw it in the wash right away, it works. Every time.

This cost me under $2 and saves me a lot of money by not having to replace clothes because of huge stains.

Baby Activities -- Swatting & Hand-Eye Coordination

2013-02-01T11:46:00.001-05:00

Skill Focus: Hand-eye coordination
Age Appropriate: 2 to 6 months

Teaching your baby hand-eye coordination is fun and easy. Simply dangle an object within reach. It's best to start in the center, so they can focus on the object. Then, move it to the left and right. His daddy would say this is getting him ready for the big leagues some day. Let's hope it's with the Sox. Red, of course! Mama wouldn't mind the Tigers either. ;)

Since E has Torticollis, I make an extra effort to focus in on the left when possible. However, I don't want to ignore the right side. He's actually working his mind and body but doesn't know it. Shhh!

The left side takes a little more work, and you can tell he has something to say about it. ;)

The right side is more enjoyable for him, because it's easier with those muscles.

What activities does your baby enjoy doing? I am going to try to post an activity each week. I'd love to see links to your baby's activities or ideas in the comments section.

Aren't they fun?

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. ~James 1:17

Linked to Friday Favorite Things

Please remember to check out my disclosure policy. As always, check with your baby's doctor.

Torticollis -- Diaper Changing, Feeding, and Burping

2013-01-24T18:10:00.002-05:00

If you read my previous post about E being diagnosed with torticollis, you may be wondering about his progress.

Quick review: Torticollis involves swelling of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, making it difficult to rotate the head in a certain direction. If you notice the picture of E above, his head naturally tilts to one side. Turning his head to the left causes him great discomfort.

We were prescribed(from a licensed institution) exercises(stretches) to help with his torticollis. He does not enjoy these exercises. At all. In fact, he knows when we are about to do them. He bucks me. He screams. He cries. It breaks my heart. However, I know that I have to do these with him. We were told this would happen. So, I put on my big girl pants and keep doing what needs to be done to help him. All the while trying to make it as enjoyable(yeah, right!) as possible for him. There are times that he does smile or laugh. That helps. A little.

We normally do the stretches after a diaper change. However, we try to do them at other times, because the 'lil guy has picked up on this. ;) Too smart! I sing. Make weird noises(I have been accused of barking like a dog). Whatever it takes to help him along.

When putting the Pack 'N Play together(thanks to sweet friend for suggesting this brand, my daddy for buying it, and my husband for putting it together!), my husband assembled the mobile so that it's to his left. Everything needs to focus on his left(to strengthen those muscles!).

It's not like every time he has a diaper change, his head automatically turns left because of the mobile. We have to point out the mobile and encourage him to look at it. Once it gets his attention, he'll look at it for a bit. Every stretch helps! When he smiles at the mobile, it melts this mama's heart.

After changing his diaper, I put him on my left breast(his favorite--TMI, maybe?). He used to like this one the best, because I used to feed him cross cradle style on both breasts. That meant his neck was stretched the way he liked it(his "good" side) for this jug. I was encouraged to continue feeding him cross cradle on the right breast but to start feeding him with the football hold on the left breast. Again, this encourages stretching of the muscles on his left side. Without him getting upset about it. Because the boy loves his milk. ;)

When burping my 'lil man, I always burp him on my right shoulder. Since my big head is in his way, he turns to the left. *giggle* I love ~~tricking~~ distracting him so easily this way.

After burping him, we normally have play time during the day. However, if he happens to fall asleep with his head looking left, Mama is not going to wake him. Let's just say that night sleeping with his head correctly positioned is still a work in progress. I have been "caught" by my man turning E's head multiple times in the night. Although my little man is sleeping through the night now(please, Lord, let this continue!), Mama isn't. 'Cause I have OCD with turning his head the way it needs to be--left! If you are wondering, almost every time I wake up his head is turned to the right. We press on.

If I notice he is taking a "for real" nap(longer than his usual cat naps), I will position him lower on my chest so it's comfy for both of us. ;)

The exciting part is that the stretches seem to be working. He does turn to the left more easily, and his head isn't as tilted when he's relaxed. Praising Jesus for His awesomeness and grace!

We continue to trust that God has a plan for everything--including our son's torticollis. While this is not life-threatening, it's something he has to live with for right now. I was raised to make the most of situations and put my best foot forward. My left foot, in this situation. When in Rome...

He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. ~I Thessalonians 5:24

I am not licensed to give you or anyone advice. I'm just sharing what has worked for our family. As always, please read my disclosure policy.

Correct grammar is not always used(for emphasis). ;) Former students reading my blog may be appalled. Lol...

Best Parenting Advice

2013-01-20T15:14:00.000-05:00

After having our baby, we were overwhelmed by the love and support of everyone. Everything was a whirlwind. I delivered him early in the morning, not too long after midnight. We went home the next day(not even 48 hours after having him). I was okay with that, because it was my choice. I actually felt great. My husband had been the most amazing coach during my entire delivery, so I give him credit for a great recovery. ;) He also spoiled me rotten while pregnant. Real men vacuum. ;)

Here's the thing, though. You only have to have a proper car seat to be discharged with your newborn. They don't give you a manual that answers every possible question a parent might have. It's not like every kid is the same. You can't cookie cut parenting. So, we were ready to jump into this new, exciting adventure.

I am so thankful for the helpful advice that has been passed along. Some of the most helpful things I've learned from watching. When my dad visited, he was wonderful. He just seemed to know what to do. He didn't overstep his boundaries, but he shared what he had learned and encouraged me as I tried new things. One of the best things he shared with me was what my grandma shared with him: Children are not ours, but they are the Lord's. Trust God with our little boy. Easier said than done, but what a needed reminder!

Family and friends have shared what worked/didn't work for them. Here are some of the best tips that people have shared with us that have worked for our boy. Remember, what works for one doesn't always work for another. I'm still learning every day. In fact, I've learned that what works one day may not work the next. ;)

Tips/Advice Given:

*Pray for your child and their future spouse.

*Talk to your baby--all the time! Throughout the day, talk to them as you do different things. They love hearing your voice and interacting. It's the best when they "talk" back!

*When your baby cries, if nothing else works burp them again! This is almost always the case with our
little guy. ;)

*Gripe Water--love it! I would do commercials for this product!

*Listen to what others share. Try it(if it's helpful, not harmful), and if it doesn't work for your child, try something else. Feel confident to tell others that it doesn't work for your child if they pressure you.

*Get up, get a shower, and get dressed for the day. Do your hair, even if it's nicely thrown into a bun.
(This has been GREAT! If you look great, there's a better chance that you'll feel great. This works for
me!)

*Don't forget your family and friends. Keep in touch.

*Ask the doctor, "If that were their child, what would they do?" That totally makes a difference in their response. :)

* Don't judge others on how they parent. Your child is not theirs.

Let me just say that I was "one of those." I would say, "I can't believe they blah, blah, blah!" Well, this is the woman who was going to go all natural for delivery and never give her baby a pacifier(even though I registered for them!). I had an epidural, and my baby delightfully sucks on a pacifier--daily!

The advice I was given may not work for you. That's okay. God gave you your child, because He has a perfect plan for them. Your parenting is part of that plan. Knowing that I will give an account before God on how I have parented my child(ren) makes me really think about what I am doing.

What is the best tip/advice you were given when having children?

Linked to Blue Mondays, Homestead Barn Hop, Gratituesday, Tip Junkie, Living Well Wednesday, Mommy Resources, Works for me Wednesdays, Spiritual Sundays

Introducing E

2013-01-05T13:19:00.000-05:00

Our baby boy was born in November, and what a blessing he is! If I can brag on him for a minute, he is wonderful. Not only does he smile ALL the time, but he has learned to play the game where you stick your tongue out at him and he sticks it out at you. He laughs. A lot. You have no idea how that warms my heart. He is such a cuddle bug, too. Oh, how I love that! I am so thankful that God gave him to us. He truly is a gift.

You may have noticed that I have gone MIA. Well, from the blogosphere, that is. I've been cuddling with my 'lil guy and enjoying every minute of it. I am still praying about the direction of this blog.

I feel that I need to share this. I am the kind of person that can keep a lot to myself and very close family and friends, because quite honestly when I've been vulnerable and shared things people have been rude, mean, and hurtful. However, I have been learning that God is in control. I can't control what others say or do, but I need to obey Him. I really feel like God wants us to share this journey with others so they can see HIS faithfulness. Whether good or bad things happen, HE is always good. Always. Even when we don't understand. While this isn't life-threatening, it's still our precious baby boy. No mama or daddy wants anything but the best for their baby. Right? Right!

So, here we go:

One thing I am thankful for is his pediatrician's office. They are not only thorough, but also they educate us on everything going on at his stage of life. We are so thankful.

Our son has torticollis(short neck muscles on his left side). They believe it is because of the way he was positioned in the womb. I was reassured that it is nothing that we have done. His little booty always stuck out on the one side of my stomach when I was pregnant with him, so that makes sense.

Because of the short neck muscles and the back to sleep campaign(pediatricians request infants sleep on their back to reduce risk of SIDS), he naturally lays with his head to the right. This has caused a slight flat spot, which gets the fancy name of plagiocephaly(forgive the teacher in me, but it's pronounced play-gee-oh-ceph-a-lee). I was even shocked that he had a flat spot, because I held our sweet boy for most of his first two weeks and hold him a lot(I know, I spoil him!). The doctor said you can never hold a newborn too much. ;) Don't worry, he sleeps in his crib at night. ;)

When babies are older with flat spots, the preferred treatment is a band around their head to enable the skull to form a rounded shape instead of flat. The place that we were referred to makes and sells bands. They have had great successes with the bands on children.

At this point, they do not feel that E needs the band due to his age(he is on the younger side). So, they taught us neck stretches and tummy time techniques that we need to do with him for a month. We will go back in February for a reevaluation to see if his flat spot has rounded out at all and improved.

They said that 25% is up to us. We need to do the stretches and tummy time exercises with him; of course we will! We already got started with that today! 75% is up to how E responds to those(if his muscles get worked correctly and he doesn't always lay to the one side). Even though I constantly reposition his head during the night and naps during the day, he still turns to the flat side because of his neck muscles. Even in the car seat going to and from places he naturally leans to the flat side.

We really do not want him to have to wear the band, and we are going to do everything on our part to keep that head round. ;) We greatly appreciate prayers for his head to round out the right way so that he won't have to wear the band. The worst case scenario is that he has to wear the band for a few months(it would most likely be for 23 hours a day...yes, you read correctly!). They stressed that this is cosmetic and has nothing to do with his development or brain. In fact, she emphasized how smart he is(of course!!!).

We know that God is in control of all things, and we trust that He has a plan. He is faithful!

I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. ~Job 42:2

Thank you for praying! How can I pray for you?

Linked to Spiritual Sundays

Photo Editing Tips

2012-11-14T10:21:00.002-05:00

I will be very blunt in saying that I love to take pictures, but I am not a professional by any means. However, I have learned some tips along the way that have helped me that I'd like to share. ;)

You might look at the above picture and think, "That's great that she caught the tongue out like that!" However, the rest of the picture sort of distracts from the actual subject(Tessie, our girl Beagle).

No worries! A free site, called PicMonkey, allows you to edit your photos. Look below to see the edited version and how I did it.

I simply cropped the picture and clicked "Auto Adjust." That was it for this picture, but what a difference!

The best tip that I've been given with a point and shoot camera is to NOT use the zoom. The pixels don't allow for a developed picture to come out as clearly. So, simply get closer to your subject. That made such a difference in the pictures I posted below of the before edited and after edited versions of Fenway(our boy Beagle).

I got close to him(as close as I could without causing him to move).

I had to rotate this one a little, using the "Straighten" option under "Rotate" with PicMonkey. Then I cropped and auto adjusted the picture. Fun! You can even see his teeth--haha!

Please share your tips in the comment section. I'd love to hear what works for you!

Linked to Down Home Blog Hop, Women Living Well, Mommy Resources, Show and Share Wednesday, Wordless Wednesday, Works for Me Wednesday

Thankful

2012-11-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

Continuing to count...

#221 -- Christian Radio{Check out K-love by clicking on the link above. You can listen to their station
on-line}

#222 -- Good books(currently reading 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think)

#223 -- Warm blankets

#224 -- Getting our car fueled in a few minutes(hearing about the hours it's taking those affected by
Hurricane Sandy really makes you appreciate things like quickly fueling up!)

#225 -- Car breaking down at my husband's work instead of somewhere by myself

#226 -- Quiet moments when the dogs are napping(ha!)

#227 -- Getting things "checked off the list" of my To-Do List

#228 -- Hair straightener(when I was a kid, I always wanted straight hair!)

#229 -- Bananas...so yummy!

#230 -- Daylight Savings Time{I am "one of those." A morning person...so I enjoyed the bright
morning!}

Linked to Spiritual Sundays

Re-run: Sweet Potato Fries

2012-11-07T21:00:00.000-05:00

Simply put--the best homemade fries I've ever made. For Thanksgiving, if the kiddos aren't into mashed sweet potatoes or a sweet potato casserole, you might just get them to eat these. That is, if the adults don't get to them first!

Recipe from food.com. Click here to print the recipe.

Linked to Ultimate Recipe Swap

Molasses Cookie Dough

2012-11-06T05:00:00.000-05:00

After using some of the dough to make Molasses Cookies, I balled up the rest of the dough to freeze. There's just something about homemade cookies coming out of the oven instead of the freezer to defrost in the microwave. ;) Don't get me wrong, I do both. I just was feelin' it by getting some cookie dough stored up in the freezer.

TIP: When storing cookie dough, make sure that the balls are separated and store in two bags. I put this small bag into a larger one. Having two layers helps to protect the dough from freezer burn.

Making cookie dough and freezing it is an excellent gift idea as well. There are many cute tubs that you can buy to use as storage tubs for gifts. Fun!

Molasses Cookies

2012-11-05T17:25:00.000-05:00

Remember the Big Soft Ginger Cookies that I wrote about? There ~~are~~ were my husband's favorite cookie. Well, step aside Ginger Cookies, 'cause these Molasses Cookies were, well, a little better. Now, if you aren't big on molasses, then of course you're not going to big on these. These cookies had more molasses, as guessed by the name of them. I personally liked the texture of these better, but I liked the softness of the Ginger Cookies better. I would have a hard time choosing a favorite between the two.

Click here for the recipe. You won't regret it! I followed the steps exactly as she laid out, and they turned out perfectly.

Linked to Works for me Wednesday, Women Living Well, Mommy Resources

Review of 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think

2012-11-05T16:51:00.001-05:00

After my dad bought us a Kindle{sweet gift!}, I couldn't wait to get started and use it. While I confess to spending many minutes playing games on there, I do like to read as well.

Do you remember my post about borrowing ebooks from your library for your Kindle? Well, I had put an ebook on hold and had honestly forgotten about it. When I got an e-mail telling me that I had three days to claim the book to borrow, I jumped on that.

I am not tech savvy in the least. However, I was able to figure it out, and what a good read it is!

Yes, I am still in the middle of reading it, but I wanted to do a review now. Why? You might ask. Well, it's really made me think differently about how I spend my time.

It's easy for many of us to say that we don't have much time. Yet, I always wondered how the President of the U.S. is able to jog so many miles a day and people so important always seem to fit things in. I tried to convince myself that it's because they have so many other people to do things for them. But that's not it at all for some of them.

This book gives incredible insight into real lives with their real names stated, and the author breaks it down for you. Keep track of what you do all day. That's a starting point.

So, that's what I have done today. Up until now, because I'm blogging(although I did write that down;).

Here's a peak into my day today:

7:00-7:15 Weighed in, got breakfast ready
7:15-7:30 Ate breakfast
7:30-8:00 Got dressed, did makeup, did hair
8:00-8:15 Folded laundry in dryer, put load of clothes in washer
8:15-8:30 Read Bible
8:30-9:30 Facebook, E-mail, Visited Blogs
9:30-9:45 Tea and Snack
9:45-9:47 Threw clothes in dryer
9:47-10:05 Menu planned/made shopping list(finish from yesterday)
10:05-10:11 Prepped water for plants(I went to water plants, and there was a funky mold in my
water/plant food bottle--yuk!)
10:12-10:20 Checked soup recipe(planned through in head)/turned clock back that I had forgotten
about/bathroom
10:20-10:26 Straightened shelf in living room
10:26-10:57 Made brownies and made an extra mix for another day/put brownies in oven
10:57-11:02 Cleaned up dishes from baking/took out trash
11:03-11:44 Prepped for lunch(made Chicken and Dumplings--yum!)
11:45-11:57 Got brownies out of oven, folded/put away laundry, put new load in
11:57-12:40 Made lunch, switched load of laundry to dryer, watered plants, refilled vinegar bottle(for
fabric softener), checked facebook
12:40-12:53 Read ebook, talked to my husband(on his way home for lunch), played Majong on Kindle
12:54-1:40 Ate lunch/hung out with hubby
1:40-2:00 Cleaned up lunch dishes/folded laundry and put away
2:00-3:15 Trip to Target to buy ink, Trip to Kay Jewelers to get my rings cleaned and hubby's watch
fixed(needed new battery...small fee, store we bought it at doesn't open them up...needed
special instrument)
3:15-3:34 Fed dogs, installed new ink cartridge, printed address labels
3:35-3:48 Got mail from mailbox, sorted/threw away, shredded labels that were misprinted
3:49-3:54 Picked up dog poop{such a lovely job, right?}
3:55-4:07 Unloaded dishwasher
4:07-NOW Blogged

While every day may be filled with different events, we can all evaluate how we use our time. After looking at this, I realized that I spend a lot of time on the internet. A lot. I did not spend as much time doing anything else today as I did being online.

I will also confess that there were many times that I wanted to "just check" facebook or e-mails but realized it would consume too much time. While cooking lunch, I did sneak on there in between steps in while making the Chicken and Dumplings. ;)

My one friend tries to only check her e-mail/facebook in the morning. Some people check it at certain times throughout the day(what discipline!) Others try to just check it at night. Some live on there with their phones/computers. I confess to being part of the last group.

So, after seeing that I already spent an hour of my time on the internet, I am going to try to limit my time online. That's easier said that done. I get facebook statuses texted to my phone. For some reason, not everyone's that I requested shows up, but enough do that I need to just relax from going on the computer all the time.

Discipline. That's what I am learning through reading this book. I want to free up my time to do things that will matter and last. Not that keeping in touch with others via facebook/e-mail doesn't matter. It does. It's just that I don't need to be a creeper, ya know? I also need to make the most of the time I am online.

I am thinking of keeping track of the rest of my week to honestly evaluate more places that I can free up more time. One other thing I realized is that some activities do not take as long as I thought. It's just that when you don't enjoy doing something, it takes FoReVeR. Am I right? I know I am. ;)

So, what areas of your life do you need to readjust to spend less time on? More time on? I want to spend more time on reading the Bible tomorrow.

Update

2012-10-25T18:09:00.002-04:00

Before my little guy enters the world, I have a few goals that I want to accomplish. You may have noticed that my posts have been scarce. We'll get into that soon. ;)

One of my goals was to finish reading the Bible again. Today, I accomplished that goal. While I must say that it took waaaay longer than it should have, I finished. I have learned to persevere with goals. Not to give up. Even when you feel like you'll never reach it. Now that I've read the Bible again, will I stop? Nope. I am looking forward to a deep study on women of the Bible and can't wait to delve into that. ;)

Another goal I had was to fill my freezer with meals and treats for the 'lil guy's arrival. What a relief to have my freezer stocked and ready to go!

In between bursts of energy, I have been napping. The third trimester has slowed me down a little bit, which is okay. I am enjoying my times of rest now. ;)

I am learning to be content in different situations. If you've followed my blog for any length of time, you know that I was a teacher. My school closed down in May of 2012, which broke my heart. While I planned to stay home with our baby, I didn't ever think "my" school would close. I am used to being around people all day long, talking all day long, and being constantly busy. The transition for being at home has been quiet. I used to think I'd hate that. I am embracing it. You never know what the next years bring, so why worry or think about it in fear. Enjoy each moment. You can never get it back.

My posts will most likely be scarce for a while as I continue to get my home in order and just enjoy these last days of my pregnancy. I will pray about the future of this blog and see what happens. ;)

Until the next post, here are more blessings that I've been counting:

#221 -- Red leaves scattered on the ground(my favorite color leaf!)

#222 -- Hubby's consistent help with so many things

#223 -- Fudge brownies

#224 -- House plants{thanks to my daddy!}

#225 -- Doggies feeling better!!! God is so gracious.

#226 -- Prayers offered by family and friends

#227 -- Warm showers

#228 -- Scarecrows

#229 -- Slow cookers

#230 -- God's peace that quiets my heart

Dog Days

2012-10-19T17:16:00.001-04:00

We put the cushion on the floor so he could recline on it, as he couldn't get on the couch.

I love Beagles. A lot. Sometimes they can be obnoxious, but it's amazing how your perspective changes when things happen.

My Beagle babies howl. All the time. They bark. At anything. Popcorn popping. A bird in the yard. You name it.

When I cook, I call Fenway my Ratatouille. He loves to be right under my feet while I'm in the kitchen. When he trips me, that can be annoying. It takes me twice as long to get things done sometimes, because they are constantly wanting in and out, barking, chasing, howling, finding pens and chewing them, eating birds--whole!, and everything else in between. Yes, I've been told that having a Beagle is like having a three year old that never grows up. Haha!

Well, a couple weeks ago my world got turned upside down. Remember, these are my babies. If you have a pet, you may consider them family, too. That's how it is with us.

My Beagle boy Fenway had a stomach issue, so I took him to the vets. He was also walking a little funny. By the end of the visit, he was prescribed a bunch of medicine. The next day, he got worse. He couldn't really walk well. While outside, he fell over and looked dead. I panicked. He wouldn't move, and I started sobbing. It was one of the hardest days of my life to see my little guy like that. It was just pitiful.

We took him back to the vets, only to be told that an x-ray may not show if it's a slipped disk. That's what the vet thought it was. We'd have to go to a bigger town and pay bigger bucks just to be told--if we could afford it. So, we went with the other option--try prednisone.

It's amazing how I missed my dog being under my feet in the kitchen and following me everywhere in the house that I went. I remember thinking, "I'd give anything for him to be under my feet again and not knocked out cold from the meds and not being able to walk."

My husband had to carry him up and down the stairs. We had to rearrange a lot of things, including our schedule to make sure he got what he needed to get better.

I was truly afraid that he was going to die or be permanently crippled. I was devastated.

Then, the medicine started kicking in. It was working. You have no idea what a relief that was. Yes, we prayed for our doggy and many others joined us. Even Papa called to check up on him. Friends called to see how he was recovering.

It's amazing how your perspective changes after you go through something scary.

Take time to appreciate things in your life, even what seems to be inconveniences. Things that frustrate you may be a blessing if you were to lose it. Enjoy what you have and make the most of every moment.

Chicken and Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

2012-10-10T21:00:00.000-04:00

8 ounces Cream Cheese--cut in bits
3/4 cups Parmesan cheese--grated
1/2 cup Butter
1/2 cup Milk
8 ounces Fettuccine; cooked and drained
2 cups cooked chicken, cut into pieces{more or less on preference}
2 cups steamed broccoli{more or less on preference}

In large sauce pan combine cream cheese, Parmesan, butter, and milk, stirring constantly until smooth. Toss pasta lightly with sauce, coating well. Add in chicken and broccoli. YUM!

A friend had given me this recipe, and I'm SO glad she did!

Linked to Ultimate Recipe Swap

Baking Two Loaves in One Oven

2012-10-09T21:00:00.000-04:00

While preparing for the little guy, I've started some freezer cooking/baking. Okay, more of the baking! When making my favorite banana bread recipe, I had snatched about 9 bananas(some organic!) for 72 cents--total. I knew what to do with them. Make banana bread!

When making two loaves of any kind of bread, here's a little tip to ensure that they both bake evenly. Keep a good amount of space between them. I have made two loaves where they were practically touching, and the centers were still not done.

So, problem solved! This works for me. ;)

Linked to Healthy2day Wednesday, Women Living Well, Mommy Resources, Share and Show Wednesday, Works for me Wednesday, Down Home Blog Hop

Oven Style Grilled Cheese

2012-10-08T21:00:00.000-04:00

A perfect addition to soup!

Oven Style Grilled Cheese

Tip: Use your oven to make grilled cheese.

Seriously the easiest to make! If you have a lot of people that you need to make them for, this is perfect. Even if you just have a couple, it works just as great. I don't mind heating up the oven in the fall/winter, anyway, especially when I have soup on my stove top. ;)

Oven Style Grilled Cheese
Bread
Cheese(we used shredded three-blend, because that's what we had on hand)
Melted Butter

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Yes, 450!

Using a basting brush, brush pieces of bread with melted butter and put melted butter-side down on nonstick pan{stoneware works perfectly}. Add desired amount of cheese to that slice. Butter another piece of bread, and have the buttered side facing up.

Depending on the attitude of your oven, flip the sandwiches after 4-6 minutes. Heat the other side for about 4-6 minutes.

As always, when making grilled cheese, it is ever so necessary to cut into triangles before serving. It's just not right to cut them into rectangles, is it? Haha...one of my few quirks. ;)

Linked to Healthy2day Wednesday, Women Living Well, Mommy Resources, Share and Show Wednesday, Works for me Wednesday, Down Home Blog Hop

T-shirt Quilt

2012-10-08T14:09:00.000-04:00

If you've been following my blog at all, you know that I've had a goal for a while to finish my husband's t-shirt quilt. Why the long haul for what looks like an easy task? I'm a procrastinator when it comes to things I don't enjoy. Sewing is one of those things.

I admire people who do it and do it well. My dad can sew with the best of them and made adorable things for our baby. What a blessing! Selfishly, I enjoy getting things hand-made, especially from someone so dear to my heart. I know my baby will use the things his PaPa made him.

I have tried to add more skills to my trade belt, but I must admit that while trying a bunch of things for my 101 goals, I've learned that there are some things that I just don't enjoy. And that's okay! I used to feel badly if I didn't "do it all," but you know what? The only One who does it all is God. Since I'm not Him, it's okay to embrace the fact that there are things I like to spend my time on and things that I don't. He made each of us with different interests and skills. It's a great feeling to know, right?

I'm not hanging up my sewing belt altogether. I'm just not going to take on another project that will take me forever, simply because I keep putting it off.

When I saw the look on my husband's face after he came home from work and saw that it was finished, it was worth every minute that I spent on that quilt. And every minute that I spent thinking about the fact that I needed to make that quilt.

Lesson learned: Just do what you need to do and get it over with. I had this goal for a long time, and lingering responsibilities just weigh you down.

What could you finish today?

Fall Favorites

2012-10-04T21:00:00.000-04:00

When I think of fall, I think of change. The leaves turn a beautiful color right before they die. It's a little different spiritually, right? After we die to ourselves, we become more beautiful. So what does dying to ourselves look like?

JOY. Jesus. Others. You. In that order. It's easy to type, but it's oh so hard to do. How can I put Jesus first in my life? Well, start out each day with Him. Talk to Him in prayer. Read His Word. Do what He would do. Talk to Him throughout the day. Apply Bible verses in each situation you're in. Repeat.

Others. I saw the most beautiful demonstration of serving others the other day. My husband and I were at a red light. There was an event going on in our town, where it seemed that physically handicapped people were doing a "walk." A man in a wheelchair was stuck at the railroad tracks. As we drove up to witness this, an older man walking his dog stopped. He gently led this wheel-chair bound man over the tracks, patted his back, and watched him wheel away. When he saw that the man was okay, he continued on his walk. A selfless act that must have meant so much to a humbled man.

You. It's so hard to do what you know is right. Paul talked about that when he said:
"For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find." ~Romans 7:15-18

When Jesus is first and others are second, the only place for ourselves is last. I'm not even going to pretend this is easy for me. Ever. In fact, that order needs to be aligned in my own life. Now. Think of something you can do for someone else today. Some time this week, do it. Even if it's hard. Even if it means less time doing what you enjoy. You'll feel so much better afterward. Promise!

In keeping up with counting my blessings, I have to say that the season of fall is one of them. When thinking about fall, here are a few of my favorite things:

#211-- Pumpkin desserts(oh, so delicious--Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting)
#212-- Crunchy leaves...still a kid at heart!
#213-- Apple cider
#214-- fall decor
#215-- Pumpkin Spice candles
#216-- Salted pumpkin seeds(my dad used to roast them in the oven when we were kids...tasty treats!)
#217-- Cooler weather
#218-- Hot chocolate season begins for me...lol
#219-- Thanksgiving Day dinner
#220-- Turning on the fireplace

Linked to Spiritual Sundays