On a personal note

I realized that most of my blogs are about my children. I post mostly pictures because I think they are so adorable, but don't most parents. Lately, I've realized that they have consumed me, my thoughts and my actions the past few years. I know that much of my time and energy is spent on them, not to mention my money. I treasure them, see a little of me and a lot of Chad in both of them and know that they are true blessings from God. I'm so very grateful for them and thankful God has given me the opportunity to grow as a woman and mother. I know that it's Gods will that my family be my priority.

However, in doing so I've let so many things fall by the waste side. I feel in my efforts to be a good mom(which I constantly feel that I'm failing), I've stopped being a good friend. I've become so consumed with my own family and the craziness that brings I've cut myself off from people who are very dear to me. I think much of this is natural when you are new to parenthood and I don't necessarily think it's wrong. But for me I've let parenthood be an excuse to stop hanging out with people I really care about. A way to get out of doing something that might require me to socialize with grown-up or get dressed up and act like a big girl. I've let it stop me from inviting people over because our house is so crowded and never clean enough. I've let the chaos of the morning and tiredness at night distract me from spending time in the word.

I've shared with a small group of women from my church my frustrations I'm having in my personal relationship with God and in my personal friendships with other women. I'm beginning to recognize the consequences of only living for me. I feel alone and seperated from those I care about so deeply. More importantly I know I'm neglecting my relationship with God.

I hear God calling me back to a deeper relationship with him, but also calling me out of hiding to share in those relationships I once treasured. My family brings me much joy, but there is no greater joy than that of the Lord. I can say that so easily, but to believe and live it is so hard for me.

During this season of Thanksgiving I will give thanks to the Lord who has blessed me with this life and an eternal life after this one. I will give thanks for those that have loved me during this incredibily selfish time in my life. I will give thanks for my husband who even when he doesn't understand comforts me in his own way. I will give thanks for those friends who've I've lost touch with in hopes of restoring a relationship that has not been forgotten. I will give thanks for my children and thanks for the time we do spend together, but also give thanks for the time I'm able to spend apart from them.

Thanks for reading...mostly likely if your reading this, you've been on my heart!

Oh, how many people haven't read Dr. Suess

I loved the idea of this costume, but was a bit surprised during our trick or treating venture how many people didn't get the costume. Those that got it loved it...but those that didn't were quite confused. The girls had fun.

Owen spent the night terrified and hiding in the Kitchen while Chad handed out candy. The firsted masked trick or treaters were all it took. Oh well he was a cute batman...again this year.

Happy Birthday Mom

After several cuts Owen and Alyssa have made you a special birthday video.


Owen uncut version one...rated "O" for "Oh no he didn't say that did he?"

We love you mom!