20 Years Ago (#TBT)

20 years ago this past week, I graduated from high school.  While it wasn't the best years of my life, I do have some fond memories of time spent with friends.

I was an average student that didn't work as hard as I could of.  Once I got to college, I got straight A's.  I was not into clubs or sports, but now I enjoy belonging to crafting groups and running.  I was the girl that wore lots of black and pale makeup to go with my Doc Martin's.  Now I'm the mom sporting flip-flops and badges of my little leaguers.  I was the girl ditching pep rallies, not cheering on the cheerleaders and dance team.  I was the quiet, shy girl.  Now I can be shy and quiet, but I have definitely come out of my little shell.  I had terrible skin...well, some things don't change :)

Anyway, I haven't spent too much time reflecting on this milestone, except with the occasional reminder that the big reunion is coming up.  A few times I considered going, but the more I thought and read about it, I realized that is an expensive party for people that really weren't my friends.  Of course with the wonderful invention called Facebook, I have reconnected with those that meant the most to me in that time frame.

No, I don't have the glamorous job, wear designer clothes or have traveled the world.  I don't have a fancy house or had the opportunity to go away to college.  But I did fulfill my dreams of teaching, for many years.  I am a mama and a wife.  Most of all I have love in my life. My home is happy and we are happy.   I am exactly where I am supposed to be at this time with the people in my life that are supposed to be here.  I would probably like to see some pictures or hear a story or two from the party, but I am living my best years so far RIGHT NOW.

My BFF, Shannon and I

OLW 2013

Now that school is out and the little league season is over, I feel like I can devote more time to my own projects.  One of these is Ali Edward's One Little Word.  

This year was my first year participating in this yearlong project.  Although I just recently started the creative, hands-on portion of the class, my word has been on my mind all year long.

My word for the year is, "TODAY."  I chose this word because I have been working with myself on staying in the moment, being present.  I have an issue with worrying or creating anxiety for what may or may not happen in the near or distant future, forgetting what is happening today and just right now.  I am a worse-case-scenario kind of gal.  I don't like it!  So I just visualize or say the word, today, to myself and it brings me back into the now.

I look forward to the creative part of this class.  I have already created 12 intentions for the year and plan on working on a vision board for my next project.

Do you have One Little Word for this year?  I would love to hear what it is!

Retreat Weekend

Hello friends!

This past weekend was a special one in our home.  As summer made her way onto the calendar, we kicked it off by staying extra busy!

The boys (even the smallest bird), went on their first camping trip of the season.  This was baby bird's first time and even though I was a little sad missing out, it worked out well for all of us.

So what did I do when all my guys were gone?  I retreated...



I had a few crafty family and friends over for a crafty "retreat."  It was a retreat from stress, expectation and responsibility.  We ate yummy food.  We talked and shared quiet times.  We laughed and laughed some more.  We played creatively.  We sat around a fire and listened to crickets.

It was pretty much near perfect.


Have a great week!