Goals

Lately, I've given a lot of thought to facing my fears. The smaller fears have been getting working on (juicing, whole food cooking) but one big one, earning my clinical license, has been there for a long time. Yesterday, I sent in my application package to be an associate clinical social worker. While I am nervous about the therapy aspect, having this additional certification will open more doors for me. I have thought about working in a hospital setting, or for the Veteran's Administration. Both offer flexible hours (which will be handy as the kids get older) and job security (because those areas of service are growing). We'll see how this unfolds in the months ahead.

Weekend reflection

Yesterday we chilled at home all day. We should have gone to the grocery store, as we were almost out of milk, creamer, out of eggs, fresh vegetables, etc. Instead we stayed at home. We went to the S's home around the corner, and my friend and I chatted while the guys talked inside, and the kids played outside. It hit me how much Robert and I look to them as role models, them already having faced certain parenthood/marriage challenges. I was reminded how too they are human, we strive to do more for others than for ourselves.

This morning Robert told the boys he wanted us to go to church. It wasn't a surprise-I've sensed a difference in him since the retreat (actually, since before the retreat, his spirit was changing, but the retreat pushed everything to the front and center). We went to first service and got to hear about some of the missionary work that's supported from the tithes. We also had an opportunity to fellowship with our neighbors, and the kids to go to the Sunday childen's program.

All of this made space for conversation while on our way running errands. Now, more than ever, we're in a place to contribute financially. Given the 10% Dave Ramsey's plan and others encourage, that's $50 a month off the top, but we can stretch to do more. This is all unchartered territory for us, both attending a different church all together, and contributing financially to a church vs a non-profit we support. I am trusting that we will be led to the right decision for our family.

Weekend reflection

I'm in a reflective mood-while Robert gets his hair cut, the boys sit near by for lollipops. Rebecca naps, and country music plays on the radio.

This weekend has been restful and renewing for our family. Time at home, going through the next round of toddler clothes to gift. Rebecca's clothes went to a mom of three last week. I came home with new-to-me Pottery Barn dishes from one of my Empowering Pantry friends. It was a lightbulb moment-our family is evolving from teeny clothes to needing more dishes (because owning just 6 person set at home meant we never had enough when company came over). Half of Elijah's toddler clothes is going to a mom of one and one on the way, and another mom of three. We have been blessed by our friends sharing clothes with us, and I love passing them on.

Robert bought donuts for us this morning. This is such a debt-free indulgence because between the cost of the good donuts from the local store, and a family of six, it's a treat. I juiced carrot and orange juice to counter the sugar from the donuts, and put dinner in the crock pot. I was barefoot in the kitchen, and loving every second.

I am where I need to be right now-not always on this blog documenting our lives (which I do miss from the standpoint it tells me what our lives look like) but its okay.

Tonight is couples group with church, and tomorrow meeting with the financial advisor and signing of the re-finance of our home.

Wow-that above sentence makes me sound older than 33 years old. I wouldn't change it for anything :) (I'm usually not one for self pictures, but its been awhile since I've taken a picture so I'm adding one :) )

Photo A Day: February Challenge

Here's Fat Mum Slip's February Photo Challenge. I'll see how many I can do this month :)

Disentanglement and discovery

January was a journey. Juicing, cleaner eating, intentional living. It hasn't been without problems, but I've grown through how I approach life.

The hardest (and saddest) part of January has been saying goodbye. L courageously fought IBC for 3 1/2 years, and passed away on Jan 21. She was 36, and leaves behind her husband, 7 year old son, and 4 year old daughter. It has been a huge wake up call. I thought I could write more about it, but I'm still at a loss for words.

A celebrated his 8th birthday last weekend. He was the little boy who was at St. Jude's Hospital most of last year fighting for his life after being diagnosed with Stage 4 Brain Cancer. He is home now, one clean check up behind him. His birthay request: collect donations for the hospital. The boys were happy to bring a check to him at his party, knowing it was going to help others.

This month has seen sorrow, and joy. Hard to close the door, but its onward and upward to the next month. What does it have in store? Training for a half marathon, career hunting, refinancing our home, trips (there has to be something non-adult thrown in for good measure ;)

I will work on the next photo a day month project. I know I took pictures, but just didn't get around to uploading everything on the day it was listed. We'll see how I do in Februrar.

Imperfect progress, that's how I'm approahing life.

Day 31: Yourself

A 2002 San Jose State University College of Social Work graduate :)