It's the little things

I realize that it is already Thursday, and that the last time I spoke with you, I was speaking of saying no more to others and yes more to my family.

I got some interesting comments on that post, and I feel better about my decisions to scale back on some things. 

However, I won't be scaling back here. I love this space too much. I love that I can look back and see how things were just a year, or two ago. I love to watch myself (and my children) grow. I love the relationships that have been nurtured because of this space. 

For instance, did you know that my real-life friend (I hate that term...we are ALL real!) Nancy and I became friends through this blog? Yep, she found my blog from another friend's blog, and then ran into me in person, and then we had coffee, and then, bam...new friend.

So, no matter how crazy my life gets, I'm pretty sure I'll still be spending time here. I'll stop watching the Real Housewives before I give up this space! 

I tend to describe a lot of things as cheaper than therapy. Coffee is cheaper than therapy. Wine is cheaper than therapy. A good sermon, hugs from babies, compliments from teens, a day in the sun, all cheaper than therapy. But ultimately, this space IS my therapy. 

I sort out my thoughts here. I hash out ideas with all of you. I give and receive feedback.

So, while I was away from her this week a lot has happened. 

Sure, it would seem mundane to some...but to me...all of these things are big things.

A determined runner.

The photo for his first book jacket?

Tutu and hair bow by mom!

 
• William ran in his third of four Cross Country meets. It was about 80 degrees out, and the course began and ended uphill. It was his toughest course yet. He finished 12th. I could not be prouder. He ran the mile in 9 minutes, 36 seconds, and shaved over 30 seconds off of his first mile a few weeks ago, which was run on a level, paved course!
• Ethan, age 6, told me that he wants to be an author when he grows up. I melted.
• I tried my hand at making tutus and ribbon covered hair clips. I met with some success...I think I'll be handcrafting Christmas gifts this year!
• Emily claps her hand and Elizabeth dances. Both are obsessed with the DVD player and the DVR. Anyone who doubts the concept of original sin needs to come spend a half hour with these sweet little girls!
• We are in the midst of our biggest fundraiser ever for our little mission congregation. God has done some BIG things for our "little church that could". Check it out!
• God doing some good things in my life. I am working on being a more patient mother. I'm happy to say that I got the kids out the door for two days in a row without yelling. I did have to speak sternly, but speaking was the operative word.

So, what have you all been up to? What are the "little things" in your life that you hang on to, no matter what?