Normalcy

This month has been anything but normal-what we usually have in our quiet, sleepy town, well, it's apparently not that quiet. The van-still has issues. My husband-wicked sense of humor that had me in freak out mode-but in the end I do love him, and I got over it-thanks to MOMS Club Night In. Speaking of which, that's the only normal thing right now-maybe because responsibilities are all divided making the business aspect so much easier? Love my friends, the ones that text, the ones that are near, the ones far away too. We all add something to each other's life, if only for a season, but the impact makes a mark. I have lots of pictures that I want to upload-lacking in that department for far too long. Life is moving along with four children, that's definitely normal though too. Yes I'm scattered today-but its one of those days. Normalcy, or lack there of, life is what you make of it.

Couple time

I have a friend who is just now starting her family and I was struck with a twinge of nostalgia as I saw a picture of them on a date night (before their first baby is born). The days of not having to worry about bedtimes, sitters, prearranging dinner time, and extra clothes, diapers, and wipes-it hit me it's been eight and a half years since we had a completely care free date night. Mind you, now with our fourth child inching closer to two, it has gotten remarkably easier. I don't fret so much about leaving the kids somewhere, or someone staying at our home. I don't worry about the hour and pumping breast milk, or how someone will handle three boys so close in age. The only main concern-as selfish or parent minded as it sounds-is making sure we get safely home so we can start the day together as mom and dad and kids. I made arrangements for a sitter for next weekend-it is long overdue. With all the car issues and school starting for the boys, date night has been pushed to the side. I was reminded by my neighbors today (seriously, it was weird seeing them where I saw them-it was like someone was telling me something!) to spend time together as a couple, not so much as them explicitly saying it, but seeing how they were with each other. I miss that-parenthood has changed that. I look to my friends and have nothing but good wishes for them-parenthood is a new venture, but they are mature, wise adults, and their daughter is blessed beyond words to have them as parents. I'll enjoy where we are in our venture as parents, and next weekend enjoy a much needed respite that will recharge us as mom and dad, and a couple too.,

Grati-Friday

Blogging with kids isn't what it used to be like. No question about that. My life and responsibilities have gone haywire, and settled down, and I feel like I'm coming up for a big breath of fresh air. School started three weeks ago for our boys, and its been an adjustment for all of us. It's a bit weird to be home with only one child, all day long. There were times when someone was in school before, but I was always pregnant or nursing a new baby. Those days have shifted now.

I don't know where this blog will lead, but I know just as my heart and life continue to take a journey, so will this place. I like having a place to write, reflect, let it all hang out. It's a space to just be. Today is my day to reflect on gratitude.

1. I am grateful for being able to spend time with Rebecca when the boys are in school. Her personality is coming out, and she's starting to talk non stop. We played with her babies today-and it cracked me up how she has 10 little babies, all acquired since her first birthday. She was all smiles and laughter, and I loved every second of it.

2. I am grateful for my neighbors, Linda and Brian. They epitomize what we strive for in our marriage and with our kids. Their candor, yes-attitude, and friendliness are contagious. I am so thankful they were able to help us last night with the van (and what they did for our home too!)

3. I am grateful home grown tomatoes. There's been something about having them in the salads and wraps this summer that is going to leave me longing for them when winter stops their production.

4. I am grateful for my healthy two feet. They have been pushed to the limits over the past month, and they haven't let me down.

What are you grateful for?