Monday, August 16, 2010
A quote that spoke to me:
God calls us to be ministers of mercy to people in need of shelter, assistance, medical care, or just friendship.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Hair Thursday
I ran across a blog named Hair Thursday and I LOVE IT…it inspired me to try something new with my hair today.
So, here is what I did today with my hair…something a little different and I really like it! And funny enough today is Thursday!
Cheers,
Beth
Friday, June 11, 2010
Getting to know myself… growth and life lessons
Getting to know myself… growth and life lessons
One thing I have learned about myself over the years is that I am very protective of those I love. I am a connector, and I love to connect deeply. I am a quality time person.
I am loyal, sometimes to a fault. When someone I love hurts, I have this strange part of me that hurts the way they hurt. This means I tend to adopt the hurts of those I love, I have to be careful of this trait as at times it does not serve me well.
I am sensitive, sometimes also to a fault. Sometimes I put too much weight on what others think about me, if others are upset with me, or like me…although I am getting a lot better at that as I draw closer to Jesus.
My number one spiritual gift is compassion. I am a walking, bleeding heart. This can be something great as it drives me to always want to help, to have a desire to DO and to be God’s hands and feet. This can be bad when something hits me wrong in an office meeting (ha ha, thank God I have been where I am at for 10 years now…they know me).
I get excited easily, which can be fun since it gets others excited… but can be bad when what I get excited about let’s me down.
I am faithful, loyal. I love life! I am not materialistic, and that trait turns me off in others. People and realationships are primary in my lfe!
On the flip side, I crave honest, real communication with others. I am confident in myself and my decision making skills. I am straight forward with my thoughts and feelings, although I work hard to make sure that my delivery is not abrasive, I am sure that there are times I could do better. I get impatient sometimes when I want instant results…God is working on me with this one as I type this.
I don’t like the unknown. I read this analogy this week that said…sometimes in the unknown we act like a toddler having a temper tantrum in the middle of a room of gift wrapped presents. Not a flattering picture, but this is what the “unknown” has done to me in the past. I am working hard at the unknowns in my life now to not act the same way! I know that trusting God through the “unknowns” will bring me to a great reward, even if it is not what the world determines to be a gift…if that makes any sense.
I find that when I sit in silence, another issue that God is working on in me…that He speaks. I need to listen better, and put myself in the position to listen.
Right now I feel like I am in a position where I am growing, learning to trust God, I am being challenged in many areas and I just hope that in each challenge I look to Him first. Otherwise I make a mess of things on my own.
Cheers, Beth
One thing I have learned about myself over the years is that I am very protective of those I love. I am a connector, and I love to connect deeply. I am a quality time person.
I am loyal, sometimes to a fault. When someone I love hurts, I have this strange part of me that hurts the way they hurt. This means I tend to adopt the hurts of those I love, I have to be careful of this trait as at times it does not serve me well.
I am sensitive, sometimes also to a fault. Sometimes I put too much weight on what others think about me, if others are upset with me, or like me…although I am getting a lot better at that as I draw closer to Jesus.
My number one spiritual gift is compassion. I am a walking, bleeding heart. This can be something great as it drives me to always want to help, to have a desire to DO and to be God’s hands and feet. This can be bad when something hits me wrong in an office meeting (ha ha, thank God I have been where I am at for 10 years now…they know me).
I get excited easily, which can be fun since it gets others excited… but can be bad when what I get excited about let’s me down.
I am faithful, loyal. I love life! I am not materialistic, and that trait turns me off in others. People and realationships are primary in my lfe!
On the flip side, I crave honest, real communication with others. I am confident in myself and my decision making skills. I am straight forward with my thoughts and feelings, although I work hard to make sure that my delivery is not abrasive, I am sure that there are times I could do better. I get impatient sometimes when I want instant results…God is working on me with this one as I type this.
I don’t like the unknown. I read this analogy this week that said…sometimes in the unknown we act like a toddler having a temper tantrum in the middle of a room of gift wrapped presents. Not a flattering picture, but this is what the “unknown” has done to me in the past. I am working hard at the unknowns in my life now to not act the same way! I know that trusting God through the “unknowns” will bring me to a great reward, even if it is not what the world determines to be a gift…if that makes any sense.
I find that when I sit in silence, another issue that God is working on in me…that He speaks. I need to listen better, and put myself in the position to listen.
Right now I feel like I am in a position where I am growing, learning to trust God, I am being challenged in many areas and I just hope that in each challenge I look to Him first. Otherwise I make a mess of things on my own.
Cheers, Beth
Monday, June 7, 2010
The Whirlwind Weekend
This weekend was a whirlwind!
Saturday we went to see my Friend Emily and her new daughter Ella. Gosh, you forget how little babies are when they are born, and Ella fed my baby fever! Chloe and Ava (Emily’s other daughter) played and enjoyed themselves playing dress up and playing with Ava’s guitar. SO CUTE! Evan was just focused on all the new trucks in Emily’s playroom. It was a short visit but a good one!
At 4 we made the short trip to my parent’s house to celebrate my dad’s birthday. We had a great meal that my mom prepared, paella, YUM! Evan was not happy with the fact that it was Grandpa’s birthday; he wanted it to be Evan’s birthday…pretty funny.
After dinner, Adam and I brought Chloe on a movie date to see Shrek 4. Chloe has loved Shrek for years now and I thought that at 3 ½ she was ready for her first movie. We had a good time, of course you have your typical embarrassing moments with a 3 year old like when she said to the lady in front of her that she cannot see, and when I found her rubbing the lady’s arm next to me (whoops). Shrek 4 was a good movie, maybe a little scarier than the others though. We had a fun movie date!
On Sunday we went to church, and then had a Church Chili Cook-off picnic after church as a local park. It was a lot of fun! Adam made chili for the first time and entered it; he did well but didn’t win, but there is always next time. We enjoyed the picnic, and the kids LOVED the playground. We love our church community!
After the Chili cook-off we went to Grandpa and Grandma DeLaForest’s house for Terese’s head shaving party. It was an emotional experience for all involved. We ate (again) and then Terese got her head shaved. Nikki and Luke both also shaved their heads in support of Terese! Later in the afternoon it was raining and the kids were playing out in the rain, it was so neat to see. This Thursday is Terese’s second chemo appointment, I am praying that it goes smoothly.
We got home with two REALLY tired little ones, it was a great weekend but we were all pooped.
Last night I went through my craft project album. I have been needing some hand towels for the powder room and it dawned on me, why would I go pay $8 at Target for hand towels when I have an abundance upstairs and I can personalize and put downstairs…I’d even like that better! So stay tuned for some pictures of my new personalized hand towels!
Cheers, Beth
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
More Summer Planting
Adam and I have been doing a lot of work outside lately. Adam has been working on our lawn and removing dead trees and bushes. I have been planting a LOT. This weekend was a great weekend to plant. I put in more of my garden…tomatoes, broccoli, and peppers. I still need to get in beans, peas, radishes, cucumbers, and pumpkins.
I also transplanted two hostas from Adam’s mom; one is mine and one I am taking care of for her. I also planted some more plant cover in the flower area in the front and put in a peony. I love peonies, they smell SO good and they are beautiful! I want to plant more of them over time.
I am really enjoying gardening and a hand full of times now have been able to use veggies from my garden! I can’t wait to make salsa with my tomatoes and just walk to the garden to get what I need to cook!
Cheers, Beth
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Devotion : A Saved Heart will want to serve
Today my devotion spoke to my heart. The title is “A Saved Heart will want to serve.”
Serving, volunteering, reaching out, and being a blessing to others has always been something that is near and dear to my heart. Those who know me that I am always serving/volunteering in some way. I have something in me that innately wish to bless others and feel a deep conviction to serve. My motivation has never been because I think I can get into heaven by works, rather, it is something that is deep rooted in me.
When I was reading my devotion I was elated…thinking…this is for me! I felt encouraged, blessed, and like God was cheering me on and confirming what is in my heart!
Here were the specific portions of the devotion that spoke to me:
“You were saved to serve God”
“You're not saved by service, but you are saved for service”
“In God's kingdom, you have a place, a purpose, a role, and a function to fulfill”
“The apostle John taught that our loving service to others shows that we are truly saved”
But the one line that hit hardest for me was:
“If I have no love for others, no desire to serve others, and I'm only concerned about my needs, I should question whether Christ is really in my life. A saved heart is one that wants to serve.”
When I read this line I felt confirmation about one of my biggest pet peeves…I always was hoping that this pet peeve was not me being judgmental. When others don’t do anything to give back or make the world a better place or if you are a Christian you are not doing anything to further God’s kingdom or support your fellow believers or using the gifts God gave you. In fact, I had blogged about this not too long and the title of the post was “If you are not growing, you are dying.”
I am not perfect and I know the areas in my life that God is perfecting. However, this devotion was an encouraging one. I'll challenge you, what are you doing to reach out, how are you using your gifts?
Cheers, Beth
P.s I read the Purpose Driven Life, daily devotion online
Serving, volunteering, reaching out, and being a blessing to others has always been something that is near and dear to my heart. Those who know me that I am always serving/volunteering in some way. I have something in me that innately wish to bless others and feel a deep conviction to serve. My motivation has never been because I think I can get into heaven by works, rather, it is something that is deep rooted in me.
When I was reading my devotion I was elated…thinking…this is for me! I felt encouraged, blessed, and like God was cheering me on and confirming what is in my heart!
Here were the specific portions of the devotion that spoke to me:
“You were saved to serve God”
“You're not saved by service, but you are saved for service”
“In God's kingdom, you have a place, a purpose, a role, and a function to fulfill”
“The apostle John taught that our loving service to others shows that we are truly saved”
But the one line that hit hardest for me was:
“If I have no love for others, no desire to serve others, and I'm only concerned about my needs, I should question whether Christ is really in my life. A saved heart is one that wants to serve.”
When I read this line I felt confirmation about one of my biggest pet peeves…I always was hoping that this pet peeve was not me being judgmental. When others don’t do anything to give back or make the world a better place or if you are a Christian you are not doing anything to further God’s kingdom or support your fellow believers or using the gifts God gave you. In fact, I had blogged about this not too long and the title of the post was “If you are not growing, you are dying.”
I am not perfect and I know the areas in my life that God is perfecting. However, this devotion was an encouraging one. I'll challenge you, what are you doing to reach out, how are you using your gifts?
Cheers, Beth
P.s I read the Purpose Driven Life, daily devotion online
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Stirring the Pot
Do you ever feel God stirring the pot of your life?
You can feel that He is doing something, and you are excited for it, you wait in anticipation, and sometimes you feel like you want to press fast forward…you are excited! Well, I can feel God stirring the pot of my life; I have NO idea what He is doing…or what is in store for me.
What do I know? I know that His plans for me are perfect, He made me and has a purpose for me and when I am living out the purpose He has for me I will be happy. Nope, I didn’t say that it would be easy, or glamorous, or anything like that. I just know that when you are acting out what your purpose is…what better feeling is there???
There have been a number of “coincidences” that have come up lately, all of which I will wait for God to work out before I talk about…since I am not sure where they are leading, but I know that He is setting me up for something. Please pray that I listen and seek him (I can get over excited wanting to get working and not listen sometimes) and that when I need to make a move that Adam and I will be unified in our decision making.
I have learned when God is working something out for you, just get out of His way and let Him take care of the details, and just listen to Him. He will set things up for you perfectly, even if you don’t think at the time it is perfect. When He is done with His work, you will look back and say….HEY…that is what we went through that for…and this IS perfect!
Cheers, Beth
You can feel that He is doing something, and you are excited for it, you wait in anticipation, and sometimes you feel like you want to press fast forward…you are excited! Well, I can feel God stirring the pot of my life; I have NO idea what He is doing…or what is in store for me.
What do I know? I know that His plans for me are perfect, He made me and has a purpose for me and when I am living out the purpose He has for me I will be happy. Nope, I didn’t say that it would be easy, or glamorous, or anything like that. I just know that when you are acting out what your purpose is…what better feeling is there???
There have been a number of “coincidences” that have come up lately, all of which I will wait for God to work out before I talk about…since I am not sure where they are leading, but I know that He is setting me up for something. Please pray that I listen and seek him (I can get over excited wanting to get working and not listen sometimes) and that when I need to make a move that Adam and I will be unified in our decision making.
I have learned when God is working something out for you, just get out of His way and let Him take care of the details, and just listen to Him. He will set things up for you perfectly, even if you don’t think at the time it is perfect. When He is done with His work, you will look back and say….HEY…that is what we went through that for…and this IS perfect!
Cheers, Beth
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Summer Fun - Sprinklers and Squirt guns
Sunday after church Adam went to do some marketing and the kids and I headed outside after nap time to have some fun in the water! I moved the sprinkler to a kid safe area and we ran through the sprinkler. Chloe had a blast right away, it was really fun to see. Evan was unsure of the sprinkler so I held him and we ran through together. He was fine with it but never really "liked" it so he went off and did his own thing, which was to use to play mower and mow the grass.
After the sprinkler fun died down we cracked out the squirt guns. They were a lot of fun! Evan made me laugh so hard when he said "Mom, look" and proceeded to unintentionally squirt himself in the face. Priceless!
We also used chalk and rode bikes! It was a lot of fun! I really enjoy the moments when I am able to join in the fun of being a kid. Jumping through the sprinkler was so much fun, just watching the kids with the squirt guns and being victim to a few squirts made my day! The laughs of children are so priceless, and I was able to join in that! What a treat!
Cheers, Beth
Monday, May 24, 2010
Cilantro Lime Salsa
Tonight when I was making dinner I realized that I had everything I needed to make cilantro lime salsa!
I got the cilantro from my garden, we had 2 limes I was able to squeeze fresh as well. Other than that I put in black beans, corn, tomato's, salt, onion, and olive oil.
After I chilled it for a couple hours I tried it with some chips and it is SO good! What a yummy, and healthy, summer treat! I can't wait to crack that out with some wine some night tonight after the kids go to bed!
Cheers, Beth
Sunday, May 23, 2010
A Proud Moment!
My sister in law, Nikki, is a 911 dispatcher. That is a career that most could not do but one which she excels at. Odd hours combined with many hours sitting and having to be on the ball when any kind of tragedy happens has to be difficult.
On May 19th, on Nikki's birthday of all days, she received an award for a superior job she did dispatching a call in Woodbury, MN where an officer was shot.
I am very proud of the woman Nikki has matured into. I entered the family when Nikki was in 8th grade and watching her mature has been really neat to see. Nikki is compassionate, kind, generous, a good listener, loyal, a natural care taker, and many other positives.
GOOD JOB NIKKI!
Cheers, Beth
Sad family news
On December 29th of 2009 my mother in law had surgery to remove some cancer in her uterine wall. She was given a clean bill of health after the surgery! In May Terese went back into the Dr. as she had not been feeling well since the surgery and they sent her back to the Oncologist. To our horror, the cancer was back and it was aggressive. Terese started chemotherapy this last Thursday, May 20th.
Here is Terese's Caring Bridge site: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/teresedelaforest
It is a difficult time for the family as a whole. Please keep Terese in your thoughts and prayers.
It has been so encouraging to see how people have risen to the occasion. A lot of people have brought her meals, someone is cleaning her house for her, Nikki (my sister in law) is throwing her a head shaving party, among many other blessings.
Cheers, Beth
Garden beginnings...
I have finished my first few gardening projects now, I still have a ways to go though. I am really enjoying this gardening and also finding it a bit of a challenge to get to with our combined schedules combined with the weather. That is ok though, I am not discouraged.
So far I have planted wild flowers down by our address, and sun flowers behind the address, I am excited to see what it looks like...it will be a while though. I also have chives, cilantro, basil and one tomato plant in the garden, so far they are all doing well!
I also transplanted 13 raspberry bushes! Thanks to Art and Roxie VanDeWater! I am SO excited about the raspberry bushes! Here is a picture of some of the traansplanted bushes.
I was also gifted some perennials as well from Art and Roxie! Here is a picture of where I transplanted my perennials.
I have been working hard to give these transplants TLC so they will grow roots here and flourish!
I still need to get in my beans and peas, cucumbers, more tomatoes, peppers, and more. I guess slow and steady wins the race!
Just wanted to give you an update since it has been a while since I have posted.
Cheers, Beth
So far I have planted wild flowers down by our address, and sun flowers behind the address, I am excited to see what it looks like...it will be a while though. I also have chives, cilantro, basil and one tomato plant in the garden, so far they are all doing well!
I also transplanted 13 raspberry bushes! Thanks to Art and Roxie VanDeWater! I am SO excited about the raspberry bushes! Here is a picture of some of the traansplanted bushes.
I was also gifted some perennials as well from Art and Roxie! Here is a picture of where I transplanted my perennials.
I have been working hard to give these transplants TLC so they will grow roots here and flourish!
I still need to get in my beans and peas, cucumbers, more tomatoes, peppers, and more. I guess slow and steady wins the race!
Just wanted to give you an update since it has been a while since I have posted.
Cheers, Beth
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Oreo Truffles
Tuesday night I made Oreo truffles. I found the recipe online and just had to try it!
I took a picture of them but I still need to download the picture so stay tuned...
The recipe was so easy, I loved it! I put almost a whole pack (minus 8 cookies) of the golden Oreo's in the food processer and then added a package of cream cheese. I mixed those together until it formed a dough and then created little balls.
I froze the dough balls for about 15 minutes while I melted some chocolate. Then when the chocolate was melted I dipped the dough balls into the chocolate and decorated with little sprinkles.
Note to self: Next time use chocolate bark...not chocolate bars (a little tip from Katherine). I was trying to be resourceful and use the Hershey's bars I had on had but the choclate was a little thicker than I would have liked. Although, they still turned out good, they could be better looking.
Overall, I am happy with my first Oreo Truffle attempt and can't WAIT to try different variations...like regular Oreo's, Mint Oreo's and then of course different color chocolates! I am so excited!
Cheers,
Beth
Friday, April 23, 2010
A Day to Celebrate!
Well I HAD to post that today I met my Weight Watchers Goal!
I am so excited...this has been a lot of work and taken a lot of dedication. Saying the word "no" many times to food that looked so good.
I have to say though that NO food tastes as good as I feel right now. Whenever I am temped I need to remember that, no food tastes as good as being at a good weight feels.
I will continue to be on Weight Watchers, I will just be on mainenance now! I think that the meetings allow for a good support network and hold people accountable.
In fact, I actually have an interview to become a weight watchers meeting leader on Monday. How ironinc is that timing...Friday I meet my goal and on Monday I have an interview to be a leader.
I have an exciting weekend coming up, our neighbors are coming over tonight to have a bonfire, I plan on getting some gardening done, attending a good friends bridal shower, working in the church nursury, and going out to celebrate Adam's 30th birthday!
Today is a happy day!
Cheers, Beth
I am so excited...this has been a lot of work and taken a lot of dedication. Saying the word "no" many times to food that looked so good.
I have to say though that NO food tastes as good as I feel right now. Whenever I am temped I need to remember that, no food tastes as good as being at a good weight feels.
I will continue to be on Weight Watchers, I will just be on mainenance now! I think that the meetings allow for a good support network and hold people accountable.
In fact, I actually have an interview to become a weight watchers meeting leader on Monday. How ironinc is that timing...Friday I meet my goal and on Monday I have an interview to be a leader.
I have an exciting weekend coming up, our neighbors are coming over tonight to have a bonfire, I plan on getting some gardening done, attending a good friends bridal shower, working in the church nursury, and going out to celebrate Adam's 30th birthday!
Today is a happy day!
Cheers, Beth
Friday, April 16, 2010
Me and mark, a new journey
I have been looking at a number of ways to bring in extra income but in a way that I can enjoy and have fun....
Enter mark.
Mark is a more trendy spin off of Avon, I have used and ordered their products a number of times and have always enjoyed them. So, what better way to enjoy beauty and fashion and to make a little extra money on the side.
I became a mark rep this week! Below I have attached a link to my mark e-boutique, I'd LOVE if you would order through my site, maybe even host a party! If you have questions or concerns please feel free to contact me, I am really excited about my new venture and would love to help!
http://bdelaforest.mymarkstore.com/
(my link I incerted as a hyper link isn't working so I have also typed in the link, so you'll have to cut and paste the URL)
Cheers,
Beth
Enter mark.
Mark is a more trendy spin off of Avon, I have used and ordered their products a number of times and have always enjoyed them. So, what better way to enjoy beauty and fashion and to make a little extra money on the side.
I became a mark rep this week! Below I have attached a link to my mark e-boutique, I'd LOVE if you would order through my site, maybe even host a party! If you have questions or concerns please feel free to contact me, I am really excited about my new venture and would love to help!
http://bdelaforest.mymarkstore.com/
(my link I incerted as a hyper link isn't working so I have also typed in the link, so you'll have to cut and paste the URL)
Cheers,
Beth
My mom's dress
Today I am wearing one of my mom's old dresses.
From what I understand this was one of her dresses in high school that her mom made (my grandma) for her. On a whim today I thought I'd wear it to work. Just wanted to share.
One thing is clear, I NEED A TAN!
Cheers, Beth
From what I understand this was one of her dresses in high school that her mom made (my grandma) for her. On a whim today I thought I'd wear it to work. Just wanted to share.
One thing is clear, I NEED A TAN!
Cheers, Beth
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Love this Logo
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Hello 30, nice to meet you
Yep, today is the day. I - AM - 30!
My birthday started off last night at small group when they surprised Adam and I with a party rather than our regular small group! We were both surprised and we really enjoyed our time together with our friends. We have formed some great relationships with our small group members and love all of them dearly!
Today, when I came to the office I was greeted with a fantastically decorated office, thank you Sue and Shelley. You both made my day start with a smile, it was a good way to be welcomed to 30!
I was then greeted by my sister in law, Nikki who brought me breakfast and a skinny latte! YUMMY is all I can say. Nikki is one of those people who knows how to brighten my day....she is SO special to me, and she makes me feel SO special too. She is one of those people in my life that I know God placed for a reason. Nikki gave me a beautiful bracelet for my birthday with a LOT of meaning behind it....thank you Nikki!
My boss bought the office lunch for my birthday, Olive Garden...yummy! It was nice to spend some down time together as an office. I am blessed to truly enjoy the people I work with!
Then I was able to meet my mom with the kids after work at Northwestern Bookstore and pick out a new Bible. The one I have now is from when I graduated in 1998 from High School and it is falling apart. Although, sometimes those Bibles are the best, I have a ton of writing and notes in my old Bible.
Thank you all who Face booked me, e-mailed me, called me, and text me! I'd have to say...my transition into my 30's has been a smooth one! Ahhhh, hello 30!
Cheers, Beth
My Me-Date Review
Well, I must say that I had a successful me-date.
I slept in until 9am which was a dream come true and much needed. Ran an errand for the family and then I was off to the races...
My mission was to find a pair of "skinny" jeans, as well as to find some new roller clips and just spend time doing what I wanted to do.
I found my skinny jeans at Charlotte Russe in the mall, hadn't been there in ages! I also bought a new dress, a new pair of shoes, some good hairspray (I didn't even own hairspray) and some new clips for my rollers so I don't put those bumps in my hair!
That evening Adam and I went to a wedding reception for some friends who were married in Vegas and then came back and had a reception. It was a WONDERFUL time and I got a chance to wear my new dress....see above!
My day alone lifted my spirits and gave me the re-boot I needed to jump back into life! I will definitely be doing that again! As a mom, finding time to myself is difficult so finding a way to make it happen is a must
I also have to say THANK YOU to Adam for taking the kids to daycare and helping with the kids so much this weekend!
Cheers, Beth
A Sentimental Gift for Evan
Adam's grandpa, Don, started doing woodwork a long time ago. The man is EXTREMELY talented. He made Adam and I a hutch, a bookshelf, each kid a cedar chest, and many other treasures that will be passed down generations!
Over Easter, Evan was riding a 'truck' and Grandpa mentioned that the truck was his first woodworking project. That impressed me and it meant a lot to see his GREAT Grandson playing with that truck.
A couple hours later Grandpa gave Evan the wooden truck! It meant so much to all of us. Adam is Grandpa's first grandson, Evan is Grandpa's first Great Grandson so it seemed fitting for the truck to be passed to him.
This truck is now sitting on the top of the bookshelf in Evan's room, of course on the bookshelf that Grandpa made for us!
Cheers, Beth
Ever Need a Me-Date?
This Friday (which just HAPPENS to be the day after my 30th birthday - YIKES) I took off of work. I am going on a date with me, myself, and I. I am SO excited!
Sometimes life gets to feeling heavy, and lately that has been the case. Working full time in a fairly stressful environment, being a mom of a very busy 2 and 3 year old and all the demands that they both bring to daily life can drain someone of all they got! Then add in a marriage and household to maintain and two super busy (one is maybe downright hyper) dogs…. A girl just needs a break sometimes.
What is on my agenda for my Me-date? Well, I intend on sleeping in, getting up and taking my sweet old time to get ready with music on…and yes I am sure I will bust a few moves (and think of you Bobby, if you are reading this)! I will then be going shopping for some ‘skinny jeans’ and not buying a pair until I find the PERFECT pair of pants. I will POSSIBLY get over to Gerten’s as well, depending on the time.
Friday evening Adam and I have a wedding reception to go to (the couple got married in Vegas a couple months back). I will be able to visit and enjoy myself with some friends I have not been able to visit with in a while… So, excited for that!
After my me-date I will post a little me-date review and HOPEFULLY have a picture of my new skinny jeans!
Do you ever have me-dates? If so, I want to hear about them….got any good ideas for me?
Cheers,
Beth
Sometimes life gets to feeling heavy, and lately that has been the case. Working full time in a fairly stressful environment, being a mom of a very busy 2 and 3 year old and all the demands that they both bring to daily life can drain someone of all they got! Then add in a marriage and household to maintain and two super busy (one is maybe downright hyper) dogs…. A girl just needs a break sometimes.
What is on my agenda for my Me-date? Well, I intend on sleeping in, getting up and taking my sweet old time to get ready with music on…and yes I am sure I will bust a few moves (and think of you Bobby, if you are reading this)! I will then be going shopping for some ‘skinny jeans’ and not buying a pair until I find the PERFECT pair of pants. I will POSSIBLY get over to Gerten’s as well, depending on the time.
Friday evening Adam and I have a wedding reception to go to (the couple got married in Vegas a couple months back). I will be able to visit and enjoy myself with some friends I have not been able to visit with in a while… So, excited for that!
After my me-date I will post a little me-date review and HOPEFULLY have a picture of my new skinny jeans!
Do you ever have me-dates? If so, I want to hear about them….got any good ideas for me?
Cheers,
Beth
Easter 2010
Whew, what a weekend!
Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter! We did, but is sure was a busy weekend.
Saturday we went to my parents house for a wonderful meal and then the kids found their Easter baskets. How HORRIBLE do I feel that I didn't get ANY picures of the kids opening their Easter baskets at my parents house!
After our meal and spending some family time we got dressed up (again NO pictures) and we went to church. We went to the Woodbury Campus. The kids looked SO cute! I am tempted to get them dressed up again and take pictures!
Sunday we woke up and headed to Adam's grandparents house. A lot of his family met there and had another meal and also spent the day together. The kids had a wonderful time! Evan got to ride on the tractor with his GREAT grandpa! I DID get more pictures this day (thank you Adam) and will be writing a seperate post on Evan's special day.
It was a packed weekend, filled with family and great food! Hope yours was equally as fufilling!
Cheers,
Beth
Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter! We did, but is sure was a busy weekend.
Saturday we went to my parents house for a wonderful meal and then the kids found their Easter baskets. How HORRIBLE do I feel that I didn't get ANY picures of the kids opening their Easter baskets at my parents house!
After our meal and spending some family time we got dressed up (again NO pictures) and we went to church. We went to the Woodbury Campus. The kids looked SO cute! I am tempted to get them dressed up again and take pictures!
Sunday we woke up and headed to Adam's grandparents house. A lot of his family met there and had another meal and also spent the day together. The kids had a wonderful time! Evan got to ride on the tractor with his GREAT grandpa! I DID get more pictures this day (thank you Adam) and will be writing a seperate post on Evan's special day.
It was a packed weekend, filled with family and great food! Hope yours was equally as fufilling!
Cheers,
Beth
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Cleanse Update
Well is it a BEAUTIFUL day here in MN/WI! The sun is out and the temp should be in the 70’s today, and it is still March (well barely)!
A while ago I had posted about me cleansing and I said I would post a follow up and I never did that. I thought I would do that today.
I did a 2 week cleanse, I think the better word for that would be Detoxification though. Adam got me this 2 week cleanse system. I was able to eat normally through the process, which was nice. I say that the system should have been called detoxification because that is essentially what it did…it just got rid of all the grime built up in my body (for lack of a better way to say it). You know how after you get a massage, it moves toxins out of your body (or so I have been told) well that is what this did….and that is how I felt for about 2 weeks. I was achy and sore.
The cleanse in conjunction with my weight watchers was a good combination though, it facilitated me losing a couple extra pounds, which is always a perk.
Would I do it again? I probably would, maybe once a year. It was a lot of pills and I am not a very good pill taker. Would I recommend this? I would as long as it was in conjunction with either a diet or if you are trying to start to eat healthier. Of course I am sure there are benefits for others that don’t fall into that category and I am by no means a professional in this realm.
Here is the link to the cleanse I took…if you are interested let me know, Adam can get you some.
http://www.integrativeinc.com/Products/Detox-and-Cleansing/Whole-Body-Cleanse/78450-Whole-Body-Integrative-Cleansing-System.aspx
Also, I wanted to give you a little weight loss update. My goal was to lose 27 pounds and I am currently at 24 pounds! I have about 3 more to go! YEAH! I am not in all my clothes from even before I had Chloe which is a fabulous feeling. Last night I went through all my clothes and tried on a bunch, it felt SO great! Now soon, I will have to learn to maintain my weight. Maintaining weight is where my challenge will REALLY begin. I have been kicking around the idea of becoming a Weight Watchers Leader, just to keep myself accountable and to try something new. It would put my Toastmasters skills to work! We’ll see if that develops into anything.
Cheers, Beth
A while ago I had posted about me cleansing and I said I would post a follow up and I never did that. I thought I would do that today.
I did a 2 week cleanse, I think the better word for that would be Detoxification though. Adam got me this 2 week cleanse system. I was able to eat normally through the process, which was nice. I say that the system should have been called detoxification because that is essentially what it did…it just got rid of all the grime built up in my body (for lack of a better way to say it). You know how after you get a massage, it moves toxins out of your body (or so I have been told) well that is what this did….and that is how I felt for about 2 weeks. I was achy and sore.
The cleanse in conjunction with my weight watchers was a good combination though, it facilitated me losing a couple extra pounds, which is always a perk.
Would I do it again? I probably would, maybe once a year. It was a lot of pills and I am not a very good pill taker. Would I recommend this? I would as long as it was in conjunction with either a diet or if you are trying to start to eat healthier. Of course I am sure there are benefits for others that don’t fall into that category and I am by no means a professional in this realm.
Here is the link to the cleanse I took…if you are interested let me know, Adam can get you some.
http://www.integrativeinc.com/Products/Detox-and-Cleansing/Whole-Body-Cleanse/78450-Whole-Body-Integrative-Cleansing-System.aspx
Also, I wanted to give you a little weight loss update. My goal was to lose 27 pounds and I am currently at 24 pounds! I have about 3 more to go! YEAH! I am not in all my clothes from even before I had Chloe which is a fabulous feeling. Last night I went through all my clothes and tried on a bunch, it felt SO great! Now soon, I will have to learn to maintain my weight. Maintaining weight is where my challenge will REALLY begin. I have been kicking around the idea of becoming a Weight Watchers Leader, just to keep myself accountable and to try something new. It would put my Toastmasters skills to work! We’ll see if that develops into anything.
Cheers, Beth
Monday, March 29, 2010
Garden Fashionista
I just HAD to post this! With all my excitement to start my garden I loved this picture, in general I love this artist!
Specifically I love the fact that she is gardening in heals...I would SO be the one to do that. Just like I used to be the one who would rescue pit bulls in my stiletto's, that was always a running joke.
Ok, so I really would not garden in heals for real, but I did rescue pits in heals....mainly because I had to do it over my lunch break at work so it was by default. Nevertheless, those who know me, also know it is a rare sight to see me in anything less than a 4 inch heal.
Here is a link to the artist:
http://www.magnetreps.com/portfolio/artist/2/type/a/
Cheers,
Beth
Specifically I love the fact that she is gardening in heals...I would SO be the one to do that. Just like I used to be the one who would rescue pit bulls in my stiletto's, that was always a running joke.
Ok, so I really would not garden in heals for real, but I did rescue pits in heals....mainly because I had to do it over my lunch break at work so it was by default. Nevertheless, those who know me, also know it is a rare sight to see me in anything less than a 4 inch heal.
Here is a link to the artist:
http://www.magnetreps.com/portfolio/artist/2/type/a/
Cheers,
Beth
If You’re not growing, You’re Dyeing
I am a firm believer in self improvement and in volunteerism. The best way to feel better about you is to give to others. Like the title says, if you’re not growing, you’re dying.
After my 6 year dedication to A Rotta Love (www.arottalove.org) I have been involved in a couple different endeavors. I now volunteer in our church nursery once a month, I was part of our local Toastmasters group in Hudson called Rise ‘n’ Shine, and have also been volunteering at Pine Lake Pastures for their Horseback Therapy Program.
I was involved in Toastmasters for a little over a year and I really enjoyed it, I was the VP of Public Relations and I liked the job very much. As the name implies, Rise’n’ Shine, we started early and it became increasingly difficult to get to the meetings and juggle the kids. I didn’t reinstate my membership this spring. I like Toastmasters, it is great organization and helps teach speaking, time management, and leadership skills.
I have greatly enjoyed volunteering in the Church nursery. I have felt more connected to the church and have met new people. Serving feels GOOD! It is neat to watch the little ones grow!
Pine Lake pastures, therapy riding program has been a lot of fun. I grew up with horses so I feel like I am connecting with my roots and passions but I am helping the farm with their mission, the riding benefits all these kids we serve, and it is a ministry to the parents too. This is a free program so many people who can’t afford other therapies can go here and reap many benefits!
I encourage you to find different opportunities to serve and give back. Even as a parent who works full time, finding the time to give back and connect with the different interests I have is a very liberating feeling. I used the KTIS site, I can Help Twin Cities . com to help me find the Pine Lake Pastures volunteer opportunity.
Here is a link to the places I mentioned in this post:
www.arottalove.org
http://www.pinelakepastures.com/
http://www.hudsontoastmasters.com/
http://www.fiveoakschurch.org/index.php?pageType=main&pageID=148
www.icanhelptwincities.com
Cheers, Beth
After my 6 year dedication to A Rotta Love (www.arottalove.org) I have been involved in a couple different endeavors. I now volunteer in our church nursery once a month, I was part of our local Toastmasters group in Hudson called Rise ‘n’ Shine, and have also been volunteering at Pine Lake Pastures for their Horseback Therapy Program.
I was involved in Toastmasters for a little over a year and I really enjoyed it, I was the VP of Public Relations and I liked the job very much. As the name implies, Rise’n’ Shine, we started early and it became increasingly difficult to get to the meetings and juggle the kids. I didn’t reinstate my membership this spring. I like Toastmasters, it is great organization and helps teach speaking, time management, and leadership skills.
I have greatly enjoyed volunteering in the Church nursery. I have felt more connected to the church and have met new people. Serving feels GOOD! It is neat to watch the little ones grow!
Pine Lake pastures, therapy riding program has been a lot of fun. I grew up with horses so I feel like I am connecting with my roots and passions but I am helping the farm with their mission, the riding benefits all these kids we serve, and it is a ministry to the parents too. This is a free program so many people who can’t afford other therapies can go here and reap many benefits!
I encourage you to find different opportunities to serve and give back. Even as a parent who works full time, finding the time to give back and connect with the different interests I have is a very liberating feeling. I used the KTIS site, I can Help Twin Cities . com to help me find the Pine Lake Pastures volunteer opportunity.
Here is a link to the places I mentioned in this post:
www.arottalove.org
http://www.pinelakepastures.com/
http://www.hudsontoastmasters.com/
http://www.fiveoakschurch.org/index.php?pageType=main&pageID=148
www.icanhelptwincities.com
Cheers, Beth
Sunday, March 28, 2010
My Garden Plans
So...I have my seeds purchased and my garden plans made. I have narrowed down what I will be planting, where the garden will go and what items will go where.
This will be a first attempt for me, I will learn a lot this year but I am SO excited to get started. I am just waiting for the end of April so I can start planting.
Here is a picture of my seeds, there are a few things I am going to buy as starter plants like Tomato's and Peppers. The Mint and Chives I am going to get from my dad. The strawberries and raspberries I am going to hopefully get from some good friends of ours. I bought the seeds for this white pumpkins, I am going to plant those separately. I am SO excited to see how those turn out!
Wish me luck, and if you have any gardening tips, I'd LOVE to hear them!
Cheers, Beth
This will be a first attempt for me, I will learn a lot this year but I am SO excited to get started. I am just waiting for the end of April so I can start planting.
Here is a picture of my seeds, there are a few things I am going to buy as starter plants like Tomato's and Peppers. The Mint and Chives I am going to get from my dad. The strawberries and raspberries I am going to hopefully get from some good friends of ours. I bought the seeds for this white pumpkins, I am going to plant those separately. I am SO excited to see how those turn out!
Wish me luck, and if you have any gardening tips, I'd LOVE to hear them!
Cheers, Beth
Our New patio Furniture
Good news, my camera started working! I think that I just have a touchy camera, maybe not broken...but unpredictable.
Here is a pictures of our new patio set. I am excited to have dinner on the deck this summer. I REALLY like this set, we got a great price. I was a little disapointed that the old owner never brought the set indoors during our tough WI/ MN winters so there are a few places where the paint is flaking off.
I found this set on Craig's List. What a great site that is! I love it!
We had a bonfire last night, first one of the year. I was nice to spend the day with family yesterday, and today too.
Cheers,
Beth
Here is a pictures of our new patio set. I am excited to have dinner on the deck this summer. I REALLY like this set, we got a great price. I was a little disapointed that the old owner never brought the set indoors during our tough WI/ MN winters so there are a few places where the paint is flaking off.
I found this set on Craig's List. What a great site that is! I love it!
We had a bonfire last night, first one of the year. I was nice to spend the day with family yesterday, and today too.
Cheers,
Beth
Saturday, March 27, 2010
This n' That
Hello all...
I have to share with you that I am so sad that my camera has not been working. I have always loved to post pictures, I think it makes reading a blog more interesting. Hopefully soon I will be back to posting pictures again!
Last weekend I re-arranged Chloe's bedroom and I am SO happy with how it turned out! I wish I could post pictures of it for you.
Adam and I have been looking for a patio set and I was so excited that this week I found a patio set online on Craigs List and sent it to Adam... As I type this I am looking out our patio door at our new patio set! I can't WAIT to get some use out of it this summer! Another thing I'd like to post pictures of.
This weekend we are getting a LOT of yard work done. I am SO excited. Adam's parents are coming over and helping and then staying for dinner. I love spending time with family! On Sunday my brother and Kara (who is expecting) are coming over for dinner and to skim coat Chloe's bedroom as well! I am SO excited to get that done...I ruined her wall when I tore off the wooden frames that the previous owner had glued on the wall.
Lots going on, it should be a great weekend!!!!
Cheers,
Beth
I have to share with you that I am so sad that my camera has not been working. I have always loved to post pictures, I think it makes reading a blog more interesting. Hopefully soon I will be back to posting pictures again!
Last weekend I re-arranged Chloe's bedroom and I am SO happy with how it turned out! I wish I could post pictures of it for you.
Adam and I have been looking for a patio set and I was so excited that this week I found a patio set online on Craigs List and sent it to Adam... As I type this I am looking out our patio door at our new patio set! I can't WAIT to get some use out of it this summer! Another thing I'd like to post pictures of.
This weekend we are getting a LOT of yard work done. I am SO excited. Adam's parents are coming over and helping and then staying for dinner. I love spending time with family! On Sunday my brother and Kara (who is expecting) are coming over for dinner and to skim coat Chloe's bedroom as well! I am SO excited to get that done...I ruined her wall when I tore off the wooden frames that the previous owner had glued on the wall.
Lots going on, it should be a great weekend!!!!
Cheers,
Beth
Friday, March 19, 2010
Swimming with ideas
Do you ever have those days where your mind is just FULL of all the things you want to do? Today I am having one of those days…
I can’t stop making diagrams of how my garden will look…I think I have settled on one design finally though.
I can’t stop planning what flowers I want to put where outside the house
I am SO excited to try this new recipe to start making my own lotion
I have a TON of sewing projects that I want to work on, a dress for me and Chloe and a comforter for Chloe
I am thinking I want to re-do Chloe’s room again so I am plotting out those ideas…
I want to get the inside of our house re-painted
I want to get some major spring cleaning done…
I just can’t seem to turn off my mind. What I need to do is write it all down and prioritize so my ideas turn into reality! Wish I could find a way to farm out the kids for a weekend to get things done!
Ahhh, to be a dreamer.
Cheers,
Beth
I can’t stop making diagrams of how my garden will look…I think I have settled on one design finally though.
I can’t stop planning what flowers I want to put where outside the house
I am SO excited to try this new recipe to start making my own lotion
I have a TON of sewing projects that I want to work on, a dress for me and Chloe and a comforter for Chloe
I am thinking I want to re-do Chloe’s room again so I am plotting out those ideas…
I want to get the inside of our house re-painted
I want to get some major spring cleaning done…
I just can’t seem to turn off my mind. What I need to do is write it all down and prioritize so my ideas turn into reality! Wish I could find a way to farm out the kids for a weekend to get things done!
Ahhh, to be a dreamer.
Cheers,
Beth
Monday, March 15, 2010
My First Veggie Garden
Well, today I started planning my new veggie garden! I am really excited to get started. I have a list of what I am going to start with as well as which plants I need to "pre-plant" and which ones are best planted straight into the ground. I have also plotted out my garden spot at home!
I will be planting Beans, Peas, Peppers, Tomatos, Cucumbers, Pumpkins, Cilantro, Chives, Parsley, and Dill.
My dad and I are going to take a trip to gather the seeds and also are going to set up my little garden area with t-posts and wire. My dad is also going to help me by tilling up the soil in the 10x10 area I chose! I am so excited!
First things first, what I need to do now is start composting so when it is time to till and plant, by the end of April, we will be good to go!
I will take pictures and post them as I move along. I am SO excited!
Cheers,
Beth
I will be planting Beans, Peas, Peppers, Tomatos, Cucumbers, Pumpkins, Cilantro, Chives, Parsley, and Dill.
My dad and I are going to take a trip to gather the seeds and also are going to set up my little garden area with t-posts and wire. My dad is also going to help me by tilling up the soil in the 10x10 area I chose! I am so excited!
First things first, what I need to do now is start composting so when it is time to till and plant, by the end of April, we will be good to go!
I will take pictures and post them as I move along. I am SO excited!
Cheers,
Beth
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Update on my New Years Goals
I am really excited so I had to share that I have now lost 20 pounds! One more pound and I get my 'skinny jeans' that I have been wanting!
I have 8 more pounds to go! But now I am down to single digits to lose and I could not be happier! I will be VERY close to my goal by my birthday. 4 weeks to my birthday and even if I lose as little as a pound a week, I will be within 4 pounds of my goal.
I have been working hard to find time to exercise, which can be difficult. Right now that will be key to me reaching my goal.
Just had to share!
Cheers,
Beth
I have 8 more pounds to go! But now I am down to single digits to lose and I could not be happier! I will be VERY close to my goal by my birthday. 4 weeks to my birthday and even if I lose as little as a pound a week, I will be within 4 pounds of my goal.
I have been working hard to find time to exercise, which can be difficult. Right now that will be key to me reaching my goal.
Just had to share!
Cheers,
Beth
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
A Mothers Panic
This weekend, Adam and I packed food with Feed My Starving Children. It was a great time and by the end of our session we had all packed enough meals to feed 73 children for a year! That was awesome!
Here is where my panic began…
I went to pick up Chloe from the Sunday school – Preschool room. I get there and ask for Chloe, “No Chloe here” is what I was told, try the next room. I go to the next room, thinking the kids in there look a little old….”no Chloe here” is what they told me.
I go look around (we were on another church campus so I didn’t know my way around very well) to see if there are other classes…there are none. I go back to the preschool room, I ask again “are you sure there is no Chloe here” she says no again. She asks me to tell her what Chloe was wearing.
This is when I start to feel the surreal feeling of “this is not happening” I felt like I was having an out of body experience. “She is wearing a jean jumper with pink tights and a patterned turtleneck with a blue background, brown mary-jane shoes…she has curly hair.”
Well, let’s look in the nursery said the preschool teacher… I am walking and I am sure I have the look of utter terror at this point.
We get to the nursery, and there is no Chloe. I yell for Adam who was picking up Evan in the nursery, he didn’t hear me.
At this point the preschool teacher turns around and announces that we have a “missing child”….and then the teacher starts to panic. I find myself telling her “If we don’t stay calm, we will not be effective” while I am choking back tears.
At this point others are catching on there is a problem and they are dividing and searching for Chloe. I walk back into the classroom, to look better….
As I walk in the classroom I look to my left and there is Chloe sitting in the corner playing leggo’s, completely oblivious to the fact that anyone was looking for her. She saw me and ran to me “mommy, look what I made you.” I have NEVER been so happy to see her!
I know that the preschool teacher felt horrible, I was not angry with her. However, I have never experienced panic to that degree in my life. The rest of the day I kept thinking of all the mothers who didn’t have that happy ending…. It makes me sick to think of.
Give your babies extra kisses and hugs, and in those times when you have had it up to your eye balls, think about if you didn’t have them!
Cheers,
Beth
Here is where my panic began…
I went to pick up Chloe from the Sunday school – Preschool room. I get there and ask for Chloe, “No Chloe here” is what I was told, try the next room. I go to the next room, thinking the kids in there look a little old….”no Chloe here” is what they told me.
I go look around (we were on another church campus so I didn’t know my way around very well) to see if there are other classes…there are none. I go back to the preschool room, I ask again “are you sure there is no Chloe here” she says no again. She asks me to tell her what Chloe was wearing.
This is when I start to feel the surreal feeling of “this is not happening” I felt like I was having an out of body experience. “She is wearing a jean jumper with pink tights and a patterned turtleneck with a blue background, brown mary-jane shoes…she has curly hair.”
Well, let’s look in the nursery said the preschool teacher… I am walking and I am sure I have the look of utter terror at this point.
We get to the nursery, and there is no Chloe. I yell for Adam who was picking up Evan in the nursery, he didn’t hear me.
At this point the preschool teacher turns around and announces that we have a “missing child”….and then the teacher starts to panic. I find myself telling her “If we don’t stay calm, we will not be effective” while I am choking back tears.
At this point others are catching on there is a problem and they are dividing and searching for Chloe. I walk back into the classroom, to look better….
As I walk in the classroom I look to my left and there is Chloe sitting in the corner playing leggo’s, completely oblivious to the fact that anyone was looking for her. She saw me and ran to me “mommy, look what I made you.” I have NEVER been so happy to see her!
I know that the preschool teacher felt horrible, I was not angry with her. However, I have never experienced panic to that degree in my life. The rest of the day I kept thinking of all the mothers who didn’t have that happy ending…. It makes me sick to think of.
Give your babies extra kisses and hugs, and in those times when you have had it up to your eye balls, think about if you didn’t have them!
Cheers,
Beth
Friendships
One of my prayers as of late is that God will bring the right friends in my life to encourage me in my faith, hold me accountable, and people that can relate deeply to me as a person and to my interests.
As I have read the Bible on this, one thing that has become very clear to me is how important your friendship choices are! I have always said to people that every friendship I have reflects a little part of who I am. I believe this to be true…but what if…the little part of you are that is reflected in your friend is not something you want to be brought out!
Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV
Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared
This is something that I have dealt with in the past. People whom I have really hit it off well with but brought out a part of me that was ugly, short tempered, demanding, and hurtful. The season of those friendships has changed. I sigh in relief for that.
As I have been praying, some of the scriptures that have really stuck out to me are as follows:
Proverbs17:17 NIV
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
I love this verse because it tells me that you can love each other through hard times in a friendship and that friendships can grow deeper roots through adversity!
Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.
Proverbs 27:6, NIV
This speaks to me. Honesty is important to me, and can be hard to tell people. I personally would rather have someone be honest with me out of love and have something sting a little than have someone give me lip service or lie and be hurt later on by feeling betrayed or misled.
Proverbs 13:20 NIV
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harms.
Gosh, how true is this!
I wish you all the best in your friendship endeavors, new and old…may they all bring out the very best in who you are!
Cheers,
Beth
As I have read the Bible on this, one thing that has become very clear to me is how important your friendship choices are! I have always said to people that every friendship I have reflects a little part of who I am. I believe this to be true…but what if…the little part of you are that is reflected in your friend is not something you want to be brought out!
Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV
Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared
This is something that I have dealt with in the past. People whom I have really hit it off well with but brought out a part of me that was ugly, short tempered, demanding, and hurtful. The season of those friendships has changed. I sigh in relief for that.
As I have been praying, some of the scriptures that have really stuck out to me are as follows:
Proverbs17:17 NIV
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
I love this verse because it tells me that you can love each other through hard times in a friendship and that friendships can grow deeper roots through adversity!
Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.
Proverbs 27:6, NIV
This speaks to me. Honesty is important to me, and can be hard to tell people. I personally would rather have someone be honest with me out of love and have something sting a little than have someone give me lip service or lie and be hurt later on by feeling betrayed or misled.
Proverbs 13:20 NIV
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harms.
Gosh, how true is this!
I wish you all the best in your friendship endeavors, new and old…may they all bring out the very best in who you are!
Cheers,
Beth
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Evan's Invites
This weekend I sat down and made Evan's 2nd birthday invites! I have always felt guilty since I have made most of Chloe's invites but Evan's have not been all home made. Evan does not turn 2 until May but hey, one less thing to do on my checklist!
Here is a picture of how the invites turned out. Evan LOVES trains so that is the theme for this year. This was certainly not my most creative endeavor but they are cute and they are DONE~
The invite verbiage starts out saying:
Choo Choo...
Evan is 2
I thought that was pretty cute! hard for me to believe my little man will be 2. Gosh these little ones grow too fast!
Cheers,
Beth
Here is a picture of how the invites turned out. Evan LOVES trains so that is the theme for this year. This was certainly not my most creative endeavor but they are cute and they are DONE~
The invite verbiage starts out saying:
Choo Choo...
Evan is 2
I thought that was pretty cute! hard for me to believe my little man will be 2. Gosh these little ones grow too fast!
Cheers,
Beth
Valentines Dinner
Adam and I had a nice Valentines dinner at Pier 500 in Hudson! If you are in the area you HAVE to try Pier 500! It was a wonderful. We had a few drinks, good conversation and great food! It is amazing to believe that we have been together 10 years now. WOW
Here is a picture of us at dinner, this shows my bangs better too.
Remember: the best gift you can give your kids is a strong marriage!
That can certainly be a difficult thing to do! No one is perfect and no marriage is perfect but if you put in a sincere effort, and dig in deep through those hard times, marriage is a beautiful thing!
Cheers,
Beth
Here is a picture of us at dinner, this shows my bangs better too.
Remember: the best gift you can give your kids is a strong marriage!
That can certainly be a difficult thing to do! No one is perfect and no marriage is perfect but if you put in a sincere effort, and dig in deep through those hard times, marriage is a beautiful thing!
Cheers,
Beth
Belated Valentines Kids Crafts
At daycare they had a Valentines day party. Rather than buying ours, we made a craft out of it. I am sure it was cheaper but it was definitly more fun!
I cut out heart shapes and had the kids paste them and color and use stickers. It was a fun craft for the kids and they were proud to give their gifts to their daycare friends.
Here is how the Valentines turned out!
Cheers,
Beth
I cut out heart shapes and had the kids paste them and color and use stickers. It was a fun craft for the kids and they were proud to give their gifts to their daycare friends.
Here is how the Valentines turned out!
Cheers,
Beth
Friday, February 19, 2010
Healthcare trend...
This is an article that my hubby sent to me, I thought I would share. This is how his clinic is set up. I liked what I read.
Check it out:
http://blog.heritage.org/2010/02/17/cash-only-docs-a-promising-advancement-in-consumer-driven-health-care/
Cheers,
Beth
Check it out:
http://blog.heritage.org/2010/02/17/cash-only-docs-a-promising-advancement-in-consumer-driven-health-care/
Cheers,
Beth
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Cleanse
Well, tomorrow morning I am trying something new. I am trying a cleanse that Adam got me from work. I am excited! Here is the product I will be trying:
http://www.integrativeinc.com/Products/Detox-and-Cleansing/Whole-Body-Cleanse/78450-Whole-Body-Integrative-Cleansing-System.aspx
This will help to cleanse my insides, I am adding more water, more exercise, and leaning towards more veggies and fruit during this two week process. I have wanted to cleanse for a while now, maybe about a year!
I'll keep you updated with my results!
Oh, and also, I am at -14 pounds now! YEAH! I need to dog out some new clothes because the ones I have been wearing are getting pretty sloppy looking. Good feeling!
Tonight I am trying a new, running for beginngers running plan that weight watchers laid out. Crossing my fingers that I get through it.
Oh, and Adam started a blog, check it out!
http://adamdelaforestdc.blogspot.com/
Cheers,
Beth
http://www.integrativeinc.com/Products/Detox-and-Cleansing/Whole-Body-Cleanse/78450-Whole-Body-Integrative-Cleansing-System.aspx
This will help to cleanse my insides, I am adding more water, more exercise, and leaning towards more veggies and fruit during this two week process. I have wanted to cleanse for a while now, maybe about a year!
I'll keep you updated with my results!
Oh, and also, I am at -14 pounds now! YEAH! I need to dog out some new clothes because the ones I have been wearing are getting pretty sloppy looking. Good feeling!
Tonight I am trying a new, running for beginngers running plan that weight watchers laid out. Crossing my fingers that I get through it.
Oh, and Adam started a blog, check it out!
http://adamdelaforestdc.blogspot.com/
Cheers,
Beth
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Creativity Christ's way...
This was a devotional I read a bit ago that I wanted to share...I liked what I read and it is something that can be applied to everyday life!
God wants us to always be learning, "always listening for fresh insights." (Proverbs 18:15 MSG)
Contrary to popular belief, there is nothing mysterious about being creative. The basic principle of creativity is simply combining two or more known ideas in a new way to create a fresh idea. This is a skill you can develop and it starts with awareness:
Here are the five steps I use in the creative process:
State the problem clearly. What is wrong? Be as precise as you can. Vague problems are more difficult to solve.
Set a specific goal. What is it that you really want to accomplish?
Generate as many ideas as possible. The more ideas you have, the better. Force yourself to list at least 5 options. Brainstorm. Have fun. Use your intuition. Ask a lot of questions.
Narrow the list to the one best idea. One new idea is all you need to get unstuck.
Take action! Do it now. God has given you fresh insight, now act on it!
You must always be developing and growing and becoming what God wants you to be. Learning to be a leader takes a lifetime.
God wants us to always be learning, "always listening for fresh insights." (Proverbs 18:15 MSG)
Contrary to popular belief, there is nothing mysterious about being creative. The basic principle of creativity is simply combining two or more known ideas in a new way to create a fresh idea. This is a skill you can develop and it starts with awareness:
Here are the five steps I use in the creative process:
State the problem clearly. What is wrong? Be as precise as you can. Vague problems are more difficult to solve.
Set a specific goal. What is it that you really want to accomplish?
Generate as many ideas as possible. The more ideas you have, the better. Force yourself to list at least 5 options. Brainstorm. Have fun. Use your intuition. Ask a lot of questions.
Narrow the list to the one best idea. One new idea is all you need to get unstuck.
Take action! Do it now. God has given you fresh insight, now act on it!
You must always be developing and growing and becoming what God wants you to be. Learning to be a leader takes a lifetime.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
A Conundrum
My boss always tells me that I am a conundrum. I never know how to take this, but don't put a lot of thought into trying to figure it out...
While I was driving the other day I was thinking....I am kind of a random mix of interests. Many of my interests don't at all seem like they would "go" together in one person...
My Interests/ Passions:
Being a good mom, wife, and friend
Learning to cook, and cook healthier
Crafting of any kind
Scrapbooking / Card making
Decorating - all kinds
Sewing
Making my home beautiful
I am SO excited to plant a garden this year and flowers, I want to learn to can
I love horses and horeseback riding
I love pit bulls
I love to dance, any kind of dance (salsa, club)
I love rap music , AND praise and worship music (figure THAT one out)
I love to do missions work overcease
I love Jesus
I am passionate to help children - homeless and in orphanages
I love to volunteer
I love to entertain
I love to get dressed up and go out
I love to read
I love to stay in
I have to laugh at myself when I look at all of this...maybe I am a conundrum? Even if I am, it is me, and I am ok with my random interests.
Do you have any weird interests or interests you feel like from the outside looking in do not make sense?
Cheers,
Beth
While I was driving the other day I was thinking....I am kind of a random mix of interests. Many of my interests don't at all seem like they would "go" together in one person...
My Interests/ Passions:
Being a good mom, wife, and friend
Learning to cook, and cook healthier
Crafting of any kind
Scrapbooking / Card making
Decorating - all kinds
Sewing
Making my home beautiful
I am SO excited to plant a garden this year and flowers, I want to learn to can
I love horses and horeseback riding
I love pit bulls
I love to dance, any kind of dance (salsa, club)
I love rap music , AND praise and worship music (figure THAT one out)
I love to do missions work overcease
I love Jesus
I am passionate to help children - homeless and in orphanages
I love to volunteer
I love to entertain
I love to get dressed up and go out
I love to read
I love to stay in
I have to laugh at myself when I look at all of this...maybe I am a conundrum? Even if I am, it is me, and I am ok with my random interests.
Do you have any weird interests or interests you feel like from the outside looking in do not make sense?
Cheers,
Beth
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
My new Chalkboard!
I have been wanting a Chalkboard for my kitchen for about 6 months now. I bypassed a massage offer from my hubby, pocketed the money and bought a chalkboard!!
This is a handy, good looking tool that I have already gotten a LOT of use out of. I try to keep an inspirational saying on the board and then I write myself reminders and lists of things to do.
I have so many things on my mind and I get forgetful. Now, I can have my reminders right in front of me! YEAH!
Cheers,
Beth
This is a handy, good looking tool that I have already gotten a LOT of use out of. I try to keep an inspirational saying on the board and then I write myself reminders and lists of things to do.
I have so many things on my mind and I get forgetful. Now, I can have my reminders right in front of me! YEAH!
Cheers,
Beth
Monday, February 8, 2010
Chloe's Curtains - A much needed addition
It has been a while since I posted something I have done craft/ decorating wise. I have so many projects in mind I need to work on making more progress!
A while back I posted pictures of the curtain that I had sewed all the buttons on for Chloe. I have really enjoyed looking at that curtain, it is so cute! I am all about things looking nice, but they also have to function well and the one downfall was that I needed some curtains that would block out the sun. When it comes to nap time on the weekends, it is hard to sleep in that room because it is so bright!
I devised a plan! While browsing through a Pottery Barn Magazine I came up with an idea to get some bright pink curtains (they would match a lot of buttons on the previous curtain I made) and hang them on branches over Chloe's window. In Chloe's room I decided to go with a kind-of nostalgic theme...so this idea fit perfectly!
The curtains went up this weekend and they add a nice touch to her bedroom! Now I just have to get the wall repaired, which is on my brothers list of things to do....I think I am just going to paint that a simple off white color.
Cheers,
Beth
Friday, February 5, 2010
When ‘life’ just gets under your skin
Do you have those times when ‘life’ just gets under your skin? I work hard to look on the bright side and to stay upbeat. For the most part I think I do a good job. I know that I have many things to be thankful for, many of which I have addressed in previous posts.
Sometimes ‘life’ feels stressful. I am consistently torn between my work and all the responsibilities and home and the vital role I play there. At work, the majority of the time I have more work to do than I can get done in a day and a less than sympathetic environment (which I will not get into). I am typically stressed and overwhelmed. At home I have a house to maintain and children which I want to mold into healthy, happy, productive adults. I feel pulled in so many directions!
With my work sucking so much out of me during the day, many times I feel like my children and my home get the leftovers….but my family is my #1 priority….my heart is at home. This leaves me feeling guilt-ridden, frustrated, and sometimes bitter.
Reminds me of the verse in Matthew 6: “No one can serve two masters.”
I work hard to counteract in of these feelings by counting my blessings, praying, and making it a point to spend all the time I can with my kids…but I am human and sometimes the compellation of factors gets me down. This week is one of those weeks; I had a rough weekend of running the house alone with a sick dog to boot, and then a sick little man Tuesday and Wednesday. Work piling up for me while I was out of the office, and the addition of some other factors I am not going to get into. I am just ‘feeling’ it all right now….
Not so cheers today,
Beth
Sometimes ‘life’ feels stressful. I am consistently torn between my work and all the responsibilities and home and the vital role I play there. At work, the majority of the time I have more work to do than I can get done in a day and a less than sympathetic environment (which I will not get into). I am typically stressed and overwhelmed. At home I have a house to maintain and children which I want to mold into healthy, happy, productive adults. I feel pulled in so many directions!
With my work sucking so much out of me during the day, many times I feel like my children and my home get the leftovers….but my family is my #1 priority….my heart is at home. This leaves me feeling guilt-ridden, frustrated, and sometimes bitter.
Reminds me of the verse in Matthew 6: “No one can serve two masters.”
I work hard to counteract in of these feelings by counting my blessings, praying, and making it a point to spend all the time I can with my kids…but I am human and sometimes the compellation of factors gets me down. This week is one of those weeks; I had a rough weekend of running the house alone with a sick dog to boot, and then a sick little man Tuesday and Wednesday. Work piling up for me while I was out of the office, and the addition of some other factors I am not going to get into. I am just ‘feeling’ it all right now….
Not so cheers today,
Beth
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Kid Recipe - Smilie Face Pizza
In my efforts to get my kids to eat a better dinner I made these smilie face pizzas. I used tortillas from the fridge, spray the bottom with cooking spray or olive oil, then put the oiled side down on a skillet. I put on top of the tortilla, pizza sauce, motz cheese and your choice of toppings. For the kids I used pepperoni that we had left over in the fridge. For myself I use olives. I turn on the stove and cook until the motz cheese melts. YUMMY.
This is fun for the kids to eat and for me on my weight watchers, I can make this and it is 6 points and it is SO good! Also, it is SO fast, for those nights when you need a quick dinner this is a great fix!
Cheers,
Beth
A New Look....
In April I will be the big 3-0 and to ring in the big occasion, I decided to get a new 'do'.... I tend to be the ultimate chicken when it comes to cutting the length of my hair so I decided to get bangs. They are long and 'fringy' I like them!
Of course the men around me didn't have the most complementary things to say, my boss and husband both said the same thing to me....what did you do to your hair and proceeded to go on but I didn't listen much. I needed a change.
Today was my first day really wearing my bangs and I liked them a lot! I need to get some length off and add in some layers to balance the bangs out but it is a good change, they;ll be around for a while!
I've been told by my female friends, my bangs make me look a lot younger, and I am all about that right now!!!
On another vanity point, since apparently this post is all about me. I have lost 12 pounds now! That puts me about 1/2 way to my weight loss goal! YEAH!!!!
Here is a picture of my new bangs, and please excuse the grungy clothes, I was lounging with the kids...
Cheers,
Beth
Of course the men around me didn't have the most complementary things to say, my boss and husband both said the same thing to me....what did you do to your hair and proceeded to go on but I didn't listen much. I needed a change.
Today was my first day really wearing my bangs and I liked them a lot! I need to get some length off and add in some layers to balance the bangs out but it is a good change, they;ll be around for a while!
I've been told by my female friends, my bangs make me look a lot younger, and I am all about that right now!!!
On another vanity point, since apparently this post is all about me. I have lost 12 pounds now! That puts me about 1/2 way to my weight loss goal! YEAH!!!!
Here is a picture of my new bangs, and please excuse the grungy clothes, I was lounging with the kids...
Cheers,
Beth
Monday, February 1, 2010
Crafts with Kids
One on one time with my kids is important to me and hard to squeeze in sometimes. On Friday night, I put Evan to bed and kept Chloe up with me so we could spend one on one time.
Chloe and I stayed up and made bracelets together. We had SO MUCH FUN and man-o-man Chloe was so into making her bracelet! I have never seen Chloe concentrate so hard as she did to string her beads. When we were done stringing the bracelet I put it on Chloe and she was so proud.
I loved to see Chloe's sense of pride and her enjoyment of having one on one time together.
Here are some pictures of Chloe and her bracelet.
Cheers,
Beth
Sunday, January 31, 2010
An "Explosive" Night
Friday Adam left for ice fishing and so I was solo with the kids this weekend. We have a full household with the two young kids and two dogs as well.
Friday night Woody kept shaking in the bed (I let the dogs or one of the kids sleep with me when Adam is gone). At 2:30am I told Woody to go downstairs because I could not sleep. He proceeded to go downstairs and about mid-way down the stairs he just exploded.
Woody has been having bouts of extreme projectile poo for about 6 weeks now. At first we thought he had the doggy flu but after the third time I called the vet again and they proceeded to tell me that it sounds like Woody has doggy IBS.
So, a 2:30am on Friday night I was up scrubbing poo. The last time I looked at the clock it was 4am.
Oh, and also just wanted to share that dogs can take people Imodium...that saved me with Woody this weekend!
GROSS!
Cheers,
Beth
Friday night Woody kept shaking in the bed (I let the dogs or one of the kids sleep with me when Adam is gone). At 2:30am I told Woody to go downstairs because I could not sleep. He proceeded to go downstairs and about mid-way down the stairs he just exploded.
Woody has been having bouts of extreme projectile poo for about 6 weeks now. At first we thought he had the doggy flu but after the third time I called the vet again and they proceeded to tell me that it sounds like Woody has doggy IBS.
So, a 2:30am on Friday night I was up scrubbing poo. The last time I looked at the clock it was 4am.
Oh, and also just wanted to share that dogs can take people Imodium...that saved me with Woody this weekend!
GROSS!
Cheers,
Beth
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Inner Conflict
Today is the last Wednesday I have at home with the kids. I am having a WONDERFUL day with them. They napped well and all at the same time, and we had a play-date with a friend of mine and her two little ones.
I made the decision on my own to go back to work on Wednesdays after I came to a point where I just can't get all my work done in 4 days. The four days I did have at work were so stress filled and frantic and that feeling was hard to shed the day I was at home because I knew all my work was waiting for me, and compiling.
My heart is at home with my children, growing up I always saw myself as a stay at home mom and now that I am a mother, unfortunately that is not my reality. Don't get me wrong, I am not looking for sympathy or trying to play the poor me card... I am so blessed with a wonderful husband, awesome children, an incredible family, a beautiful home, a good career and the list goes on. But my #1 prayer remains right now to be "God, I want to be home with my children, please show me a way."
I am nervous about how working 5-6 days a week (I work some Saturdays) will affect my ability to maintain my home and how I will feel about my lack of time with my kids. I am nervous that I will lose the life balance I feel like I was getting pretty good at.
If you think about me, please pray for me.
On another note... My 2010 goals have been going pretty good. I have many goals but one specific one was to lose weight, so far I am down 8 pounds! YEAH,
Cheers,
Beth
I made the decision on my own to go back to work on Wednesdays after I came to a point where I just can't get all my work done in 4 days. The four days I did have at work were so stress filled and frantic and that feeling was hard to shed the day I was at home because I knew all my work was waiting for me, and compiling.
My heart is at home with my children, growing up I always saw myself as a stay at home mom and now that I am a mother, unfortunately that is not my reality. Don't get me wrong, I am not looking for sympathy or trying to play the poor me card... I am so blessed with a wonderful husband, awesome children, an incredible family, a beautiful home, a good career and the list goes on. But my #1 prayer remains right now to be "God, I want to be home with my children, please show me a way."
I am nervous about how working 5-6 days a week (I work some Saturdays) will affect my ability to maintain my home and how I will feel about my lack of time with my kids. I am nervous that I will lose the life balance I feel like I was getting pretty good at.
If you think about me, please pray for me.
On another note... My 2010 goals have been going pretty good. I have many goals but one specific one was to lose weight, so far I am down 8 pounds! YEAH,
Cheers,
Beth
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Checking In
Well this week has been a whirl wind of a week and I can't beleive it has almost been a week since I have blogged!
I have a few updates, some good and some rather sad. Let's get the sad new out of the way first. Starting in February I will be coming back to work on Wednesday's. There have been a number of changes recently at my workplace which has lead me to take on much more of a work load and I just can't get all the work I need to get done within a 4 day work week. This was a very hard decision for me as being at home with my kids is definitly where my heart is.
Now for the good news. One of my resolutions was to lose weight, I have a goal in mind and I want to be at my goal by my 30th birthday, which is April 8th! This week I lost 4 pounds! I was very proud of myself.
This weekend is one full of friends and fun. Tonight me and the girls are going to a casino to celebrate one of my friends birthday's. Tomorrow we are getting together with friends to plan out a skiing trip! Fun Fun!
Hope you all have a great weekend too.
Cheers,
Beth
I have a few updates, some good and some rather sad. Let's get the sad new out of the way first. Starting in February I will be coming back to work on Wednesday's. There have been a number of changes recently at my workplace which has lead me to take on much more of a work load and I just can't get all the work I need to get done within a 4 day work week. This was a very hard decision for me as being at home with my kids is definitly where my heart is.
Now for the good news. One of my resolutions was to lose weight, I have a goal in mind and I want to be at my goal by my 30th birthday, which is April 8th! This week I lost 4 pounds! I was very proud of myself.
This weekend is one full of friends and fun. Tonight me and the girls are going to a casino to celebrate one of my friends birthday's. Tomorrow we are getting together with friends to plan out a skiing trip! Fun Fun!
Hope you all have a great weekend too.
Cheers,
Beth
Friday, January 8, 2010
A Few Favorite Sites
I wanted to share with you a few of the sites that I enjoy. These sites are anywhere from crafty sites to devotional sites...
http://thepioneerwoman.com/
http://www.marthastewart.com/
http://www.purposedrivenlife.com/en-US/Home/
http://www.cookinglight.com/
http://dollarstorecrafts.com/
http://christianhomekeeper.org/
http://amybutlerdesign.com/
Hope you enjoy some new browsing!
Cheers,
Beth
http://thepioneerwoman.com/
http://www.marthastewart.com/
http://www.purposedrivenlife.com/en-US/Home/
http://www.cookinglight.com/
http://dollarstorecrafts.com/
http://christianhomekeeper.org/
http://amybutlerdesign.com/
Hope you enjoy some new browsing!
Cheers,
Beth
Chloe's 3rd Birthday
On Sunday, January 3rd we had Chloe's 3rd birthday party! It is hard for me to beleive she is 3 already.
Chloe specifically requested to have a "Pink" Princess party this year, and so that is just what we did! We invited family and a few good friends to join us.
Here are some pictures of Chloe's big day!
Thank you to everyone who made Chloe's birthday party one to remember,
Cheers,
Beth
Christmas Pictures to Share
Here are some pictures I wanted to share from Christmas:
The first picture is one of Chloe and Evan in the new blow up ball bus that Grandma and Grandpa DeLaForest got for the kids... It was a hit and I have to just laugh at how the kids hair looks while they are in the bus!
The second picture here is my mother in law, Terese and sister in law, Nikki posing in their aprons that I made them for Christmas!
Just wanted to share the pictures with you!
Cheers,
Beth
The first picture is one of Chloe and Evan in the new blow up ball bus that Grandma and Grandpa DeLaForest got for the kids... It was a hit and I have to just laugh at how the kids hair looks while they are in the bus!
The second picture here is my mother in law, Terese and sister in law, Nikki posing in their aprons that I made them for Christmas!
Just wanted to share the pictures with you!
Cheers,
Beth
Sunday, January 3, 2010
2010 Goals
Happy New Year!
Adam and I rang in a low key New Year with friends Al and Amanda over a heated game of marbles.
It's Sunday night and I am unwinding from a busy day. Church, Chloe's birthday party, a quick trip with my sister in law to JoAnn Fabric.
I took some time today to write down my personal "GOALS" for 2010. Here is what my goals look like:
1 Be more Proactive:
Life working about 40 hours a week with two little ones gets a bit frantic paced. I need to work ahead better, this is something I already try to do by setting out clothes the night before, but I need to take it a step further. Here are a few examples:
Weekly Meal Planning
Set a basic cleaning schedule
Set clothes out the night before
In general - looking ahead in my schedule so I have more foresight
2 Cooking Healthier:
I love the Betty Crocker cookbook I have but one of the downfalls of me cooking more in 2009 was that I didn't cook very healthy. The good thing is that I am at least not intimidated by the kitchen anymore and I am ready to take on healthy cooking!
3 Spend more time connecting with God:
A relationship with God is important to me and in order to develop and maintain any relationship you need to invest time. I need to work diligently:
Read the Bible
Pray
Continue to update my Evolving Vision (see post I had on this a while ago)
Look for ways that God wants to use me
Stay connected in small groups and within the church
4 Lose weight:
Yes, I know...how cliche! It is true though, I need to lose about 25 lbs to be where I want to be. I have a goal weight, and no I am not going to post it. I will just say that I want to lose 25lbs by April 8th, when I turn the big 30! This is a big one for me...as I have approached 30 I am sure my metabolism has slowed, I work at a job where I sit all day in an environment FULL of sweets and unhealthy foods. My life requires me to put a lot more effort than many others into eating right and being more active. Also, as most mothers do we tend to "serve" our families putting everyone in the family before ourselves...I do this a LOT and I need to start making my "activity" (as in working out) more of a priority...which means I may have to put myself before other family members all the time. This IS VERY important to me because:
I want to set a good example for my children
I want to feel good about myself
I have a family history of diabetes (both sides)
I will lose the 25 lbs by:
working out at least 3 times a week
eating more healthy
joining weight watchers with my mom and sister in law
blogging about my progress
5 Connecting:
I need to do a better job at connecting with those I love. This can be a hard one for me, I am in the phone almost 9 hours a day while I am at work and I am on the computer that whole time too, when I leave work the last thing I want to do is talk more on the phone or e-mail more! I am just not the 'techy' type. I would be happy with a paper planner, a land line, and even without a TV. But I know that in order to stay connected with those I love I have to lay that all down. I need to do this in various ways:
by keeping my cell phone charged and close by to me
by staying current on my e-mail
by having more people over for dinner
sending thank yous and notes of encouragement to special people
by reaching out
6. Entertain interests:
Recently I have been sewing more and I really enjoy it! I would like to take time to learn more about sewing and also take the time to entertain more interests like jewelry making, horses, blogging, among other things!
7. Read more:
Plain and simple, I need to read more. This ties in with goal #6! So, I can tackle them together!
So, wish me luck!!!! I will keep you posted!
Cheers,
Beth
Adam and I rang in a low key New Year with friends Al and Amanda over a heated game of marbles.
It's Sunday night and I am unwinding from a busy day. Church, Chloe's birthday party, a quick trip with my sister in law to JoAnn Fabric.
I took some time today to write down my personal "GOALS" for 2010. Here is what my goals look like:
1 Be more Proactive:
Life working about 40 hours a week with two little ones gets a bit frantic paced. I need to work ahead better, this is something I already try to do by setting out clothes the night before, but I need to take it a step further. Here are a few examples:
Weekly Meal Planning
Set a basic cleaning schedule
Set clothes out the night before
In general - looking ahead in my schedule so I have more foresight
2 Cooking Healthier:
I love the Betty Crocker cookbook I have but one of the downfalls of me cooking more in 2009 was that I didn't cook very healthy. The good thing is that I am at least not intimidated by the kitchen anymore and I am ready to take on healthy cooking!
3 Spend more time connecting with God:
A relationship with God is important to me and in order to develop and maintain any relationship you need to invest time. I need to work diligently:
Read the Bible
Pray
Continue to update my Evolving Vision (see post I had on this a while ago)
Look for ways that God wants to use me
Stay connected in small groups and within the church
4 Lose weight:
Yes, I know...how cliche! It is true though, I need to lose about 25 lbs to be where I want to be. I have a goal weight, and no I am not going to post it. I will just say that I want to lose 25lbs by April 8th, when I turn the big 30! This is a big one for me...as I have approached 30 I am sure my metabolism has slowed, I work at a job where I sit all day in an environment FULL of sweets and unhealthy foods. My life requires me to put a lot more effort than many others into eating right and being more active. Also, as most mothers do we tend to "serve" our families putting everyone in the family before ourselves...I do this a LOT and I need to start making my "activity" (as in working out) more of a priority...which means I may have to put myself before other family members all the time. This IS VERY important to me because:
I want to set a good example for my children
I want to feel good about myself
I have a family history of diabetes (both sides)
I will lose the 25 lbs by:
working out at least 3 times a week
eating more healthy
joining weight watchers with my mom and sister in law
blogging about my progress
5 Connecting:
I need to do a better job at connecting with those I love. This can be a hard one for me, I am in the phone almost 9 hours a day while I am at work and I am on the computer that whole time too, when I leave work the last thing I want to do is talk more on the phone or e-mail more! I am just not the 'techy' type. I would be happy with a paper planner, a land line, and even without a TV. But I know that in order to stay connected with those I love I have to lay that all down. I need to do this in various ways:
by keeping my cell phone charged and close by to me
by staying current on my e-mail
by having more people over for dinner
sending thank yous and notes of encouragement to special people
by reaching out
6. Entertain interests:
Recently I have been sewing more and I really enjoy it! I would like to take time to learn more about sewing and also take the time to entertain more interests like jewelry making, horses, blogging, among other things!
7. Read more:
Plain and simple, I need to read more. This ties in with goal #6! So, I can tackle them together!
So, wish me luck!!!! I will keep you posted!
Cheers,
Beth
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