Balance

I often question whether or not my life is balanced.  I strive to have a balanced life and to provide that for my children.
Last night I was laying on the couch watching Jimmy Fallon with Steve and Trav, Maggie was in her bed screaming about needing to tell me sumpin' and Luke was up twice to ask us a question.  I was just listening for a few moments.  In those moments, I realized how chaotic & predictable our life is.  We have a routine at home, but are always busy with something!  I don't know any different, and doubt my kids ever will.  I find myself getting caught up in the tasks and have to remind myself to do the more important things in life... lay in bed on Saturdays, sit on the swing Steve & Pops made, leave dishes dirty while visiting with family & friends, and make a mess making cookies.
There are many days I feel I didn't give enough of myself to everyone around me.  Even on those days, although exhausted, I feel fulfilled.  So am I balanced?  I think so... I get to spend my life interacting with and serving others.

Sunday

There was an amazing turn out at RHBC this morning. Because I had my sweet Maggie in big church (she refused to go to Sunday school), I sat in the very last row. The music was so moving that Maggie ended up on my shoulders with her hands raised high. Behind me the guys added 5 extra rows to accommodate the overwhelming number of people in worship east... There were over 260 youth who participated in #greater2014. My big take away: wherever I am should be a better place because I am there. 

Great day with God!

A Saturday

Today was especially simple and especially perfect!  My morning started when Maggie crawled in our bed.  We made coffee, eggs, and waffles before Luke the ninja woke up.  The kids spent the morning playing with Legos and Hungry Hungry Hippos.  We had a birthday party and a short shopping experience at the mall... then we came home for some time outside in this beautiful weather!  The kids got out their jeep and took it for a ride up the street to our best friends' house.  We picked up their little girl and were off again... 3 deep in a 2 seater!  That trip took us to a big red dirt pile.  Luke had a big smile and belly laugh as he was throwing chunks of dirt at the large machines.  Maggie did circles in the cul-de-sac with some of the girls.  She was pushing the pedal, leaning back, hands in her lap, and a "watch me" smile on her face.  I had to jog to keep up with the 12v jeep when we headed home and Luke kicked it in to full gear.  When we got home the neighbors were outside.  Luke immediately went to the dirt to dig and make mud.  As the sun started to dip, so did the energy levels and patience of my sweet babies.  They relaxed in the back yard while I 'cooked' dinner.  We had cheese-only quesidillas and green-iced cupcakes for dessert.  All of us were in jammies by 7:00 and ready for a tv show and cuddles.  What else would you do after a busy, active day?  Nothing major, but many things specials about today.

Post #2... Over a year later!

Obviously I have not been a committed blogger. Who has time!?  2013 update: Luke loved playing fall and spring soccer with coach dad. Maggie started dance  and was a rock star in the recital doing her own thing. She tried soccer, but after she kicked the ball a few times she lost interest and I got to be the mom who was fighting the kid to stay on the field.  We went to Disney World with the kids and enjoyed every second!  Very few lines and very big smiles! Steve finally got the boat he has wanted for 20 years. I moved in to a new position at work and Steve's company sold.  We went at full speed all year!  

This year Maggie has started gymnastics, Luke is back in soccer, and Steve has accepted a job with a new company.  

We continue to stay busy with family, friends, hobbies and work. It is such an amazing blessing to share our lives with those we love and who love us.