Mothers

Day 110

Did you know that a mother can instinctively identify her child's cry out of a crowd? It's a trait that came in handy when we lived in villages with many little ones running around. If a woman woke every time she heard a baby whimper, she'd never get sleep. Instead, a woman's brain only signals to wake her if it is her baby doing the crying. And studies have shown that even though it is no longer a necessary trait to have in most developed countries, mother's haven't lost that gift. Fascinating!

Janet

It's All Small

Day 109
I began this year by reading, "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff- and it's all small," by Richard Carlson. First of all, if you haven't read this little nugget of literary perfection go ahead and click to order it...Carlson's words will change your life- http://www.amazon.com/Sweat-Small-Stuff-small-stuff/dp/0786881852. One of his chapters (actually the common pulse of the book) is about the power that stems from surrendering your need to be right all the time by instead choosing kindness, peace, and love. Anyone that knows me understands my near compulsive need to be heard...and to prove my "rightness". My oldest brother pointed out once that if no one is listening to me I don't stop talking-I just get louder and repeat myself until I'm positive everyone has acknowledged me. That trait probably stems from being the youngest of six kids-where annoying persistence isn't a flaw, but rather a survival method. Anyway-the theme of this book resonated with me so much that I actually applied its' principals to my own life, and I can honestly say my world is more peaceful. I have seen the catastrophic effects of staking my "right-claim" no matter who it hurts, and I have also witnessed the joy that can blossom when you just keep your mouth shut and choose kindness above anything else. The author isn't suggesting we become a bunch of pushovers, but he does do a wonderful job of reminding the reader that they are in control of their own reactions and choosing our battles wisely can literally add quality years to our lives. Something magical also happens when we relinquish a bit of our control. Our glasses become rosy again, like they were when we were kids, and we are reminded that there is still abundant beauty in the world.

Janet

Reality Check

Day 108 (Wednesday- April 28, 2010)

I learned a few things today:

1. I need to quit feeling sorry for myself. So many people have it much worse than I ever will.
2. I am loved and appreciated, whether or not I get the laundry done.
3. I have the most wonderful, understanding, thoughtful, and funny husband. He is my best friend. I adore him.
4. No matter what happens to me from here on out, I am content. We have brought two of the most beautiful babies into the world and I have my family-thank God.

Janet

Wal*Mart

Day 107

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp=36812367&#36812367

Janet

Overwhelmed

Day 106

I wasn't at all prepared for the feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, guilt, and fear that come along with being a mother. Nobody really sits you down and warns you about these feelings before you agree to take on the responsibilities. And then, there is this really stupid need we all seem to have to act like everything is freaking fantastic all the time. And even though I understand that nobody is perfect, I tend to assume others' laundry doesn't pile up, and that their children get the perfect balance of nutrition, sunlight, attention, and exercise every day. I go to bed almost every night with this big lump of guilt in my throat for all the things I didn't accomplish that day. I don't always feel like this, and maybe I won't tomorrow...but right now I feel like such a crappy mom.

Janet

Girlfriends

Day 105 (Saturday- April 25th)
I love what men bring to the table, especially my husband, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't have just as much fun when I'm out with my girlfriends. And I have been blessed with an especially awesome group of women that I'm proud to call my sisters. Anyway-at dinner last night I asked each woman to tell me the most important lessons they've learned so far. I hope these quotes resonate with you.

"Family is the most important thing in the world. Nothing else really matters."
-Heather

"We can be as happy as we choose to be. Attitude is key."
-Julie

"It's just stuff. You can't take it with you."
-Autum

"It isn't what you get from this life that matters. It's what you bring to it."
-JoDee

"No matter what happens...no matter how horrible the day was- the sun will rise again tomorrow. There will always be another day."
-Shannon

"The food's good here, but I bet there is a seriously awesome buffet in Heaven."
-Sara

"Sometimes-actually more often than not-you have to just suck it up and continue in spite of it all. And bonus if you can manage to do it with a smile."
-Me

Here are a couple extra goodies...

"If people never changed, we'd all still be wearing diapers."

-Autum

"Forget yourself and find someone who needs your service, and you will discover the secret to a happy, fulfilled life."

-Ezra Taft Benson

Janet

Friends

Day 104 (Friday, April 23)

I learned today how much I love my friends. I knew it before, but I realized it even more today. Love them!

Janet

Day 103

If your cup is never empty, it can never be full.

Janet

Earth Day

Day 102

Today I learned all about Earth Day. This year will mark the 40th anniversary of Earth Day-so I encourage you to do something to celebrate! Go pick up trash at your local park, plant some flowers, start a compost, trade your harsh cleaning products (Have you smelled the green cleaners? They are heavenly), or check out this website for other ideas- http://ww2.earthday.net/. And watch this with your speakers on- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMJSr9wFAHY&feature=related

Happy Earth Day!

Janet

Password

Day 101

I had a nice, long talk with my Mom today. She and my Dad have been married for 45 years (or is it 46?) and I figured she'd have a lot of insight on the topic, which she did. But my favorite thing she said was, "Patience is the password." Patience doesn't have to be a four-letter word. Patience often brings with it a stronger connection, greater appreciation, and more fulfillment.


Janet

Moldy Bread

Day 100

I've made it to day 100! Yay!

Today was actually a horrible day. Emma and I were both very sick (probably from eating bread that had turned and not realizing it until it was too late). As a result I learned how stupid and boring daytime TV is. Thank goodness I'm an otherwise busy person.

Janet

Prissy With Worms

Day 99

Today I learned that I have raised a prissy, little girl. I was leaning down to give her a kiss this evening and she covered her head while warning me, "Don't mess up my hair Mommy!"

But I'm not too worried because as she was helping me dig through the garden, she picked up (with her bare hands) an earth worm and stared at it for a while. I watched her in disbelief as she touched and examined this slimy, wiggling, worm. "What do earthworms do Emma?" I asked. Her response was awesome...

"They poop in the dirt and make the plants grow!"

Emma- 8 months

Could it be that I'm raising a sort of Norman Rockwell, scrapes-on-the-knees-but-bows-in-the-hair type of girl? I hope so.

Janet

98 (Saturday- April 17th)

I am doing horribly at this! I completely missed Friday and now I'm having to make up for yesterday. But I will not give up. No matter how frustratingly annoying it is to sit down every night to post-I cannot deny the positive effects it has had on me. I view the world differently. I live my life differently. I am trying, and somewhat succeeding, at achieving goals I have set for myself. That is a powerful feeling.

So-Friday the 16th I learned all about the detrimental effects of sugar. I am a sugar addict-and I am not saying that lightheartedly. The amount I eat surpasses anyone I know and the realization that sugar could the be the source of so many of my digestive (and metabolic) issues is devastating! Please read this...it might prolong and improve your life. http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/04/20/sugar-dangers.aspx.

Yesterday, Saturday the 17th, I joined Trenton in chaperoning a youth dance at our church. I realized that I feel younger now than I did when I was attending those dances. There is something to be said for a few (or ten) years of experience. I now realize that not every situation requires a dramatic, tearful exit with doting friends in tow. You don't need a perfect body or outfit to feel confident. And if only I had known then that boys are like spiders-they're more afraid of you than you are of them.

Janet

Healthy Tongue?

Day 97

You have got to check this out! This is truly something I did not even consider until I stumbled upon it today. It's interesting...at the very least. http://health.yahoo.com/experts/drmao/25415/tongue-inspection-hows-your-health/

Janet

Creative Crazies

Day 96

I learned today that I really don't feel prepared or qualified to be a mom. I went through my day feeling completely inadequate at everything I tried to do. I'm anxious about the future and I can't seem to keep myself from stewing over all the things that have and could go wrong. I am hopelessly neurotic. This quote gives me comfort though-

"Everything great in the world comes from neurotics. They alone have founded our religions, and composed our masterpieces. Never will the world know all it owes to them, nor all that they have suffered to enrich us."

-Marcel Proust

I think this quote might be a little extreme, but I would like to think that I could put some of this nervous energy to good use. It does seem that when I'm on the cusp of an anxiety attack, certainly not in the midst of one, but in that state of subtle panic just before things get out of control, I do have an easier time accessing my creativity. If only there were a class I could take that would teach me the skills to channel that energy. Actually I think there is...it's called therapy.

Janet

Day 95

"If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere."

-Frank A. Clark


Janet

Dear Little Debbie

Day 94

In keeping with my post from yesterday, I was faced with a showdown between brown rice and my favorite Little Debbie snack. Both portions were a 100 calories. A website can count your calories, but it does little to help when you're trying to choose the right during a moment of weakness. Okay, okay-so calories are not all created equal..I get it. But how am I supposed to be excited by a cup of brown rice when I've got its delicious caloric equivalent staring me in the face? Sure, the brown rice offers the type of complex carb that would sustain my energy, but the sugary treat would offer me pleasure.

Dear Little Debbie,

While I do love and adore you, I curse the day you were born.

Sincerely,
Janet

By the way-If you're wondering which I chose...I ate both. The rice gave me the energy to burn off the cupcake. Baby steps.

Counting Calories

Day 93

Today I learned about this website http://www.caloriecontrol.org/. Even if you're not concerned with your weight may I suggest you still check it out? There are many tips on making the calories you do eat worthwhile and getting the most out of your nutrition to maintain a healthy, happy lifestyle. This whole time I thought I was eating practically nothing, but there is a calorie counter-where you enter anything you've eaten and it will calculate how many calories you've consumed for the day. Like bills, it's staggering how quickly it all adds up. But the trick is being honest with yourself. Even if you are eating within the recommended caloric intake (which you can also calculate on this site) it offers suggestions on how you can eat differently, eat more, and be the most efficient energy burning machine possible. So grab yourself a glass of ice water, and prepare for a reality check. It will motivate you positively...I promise.

Janet

Need Some Motivation?

Day 92 (Saturday, April 10th)

"Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense."

-Ralf Waldo Emerson

"I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from my experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances."

-Martha Washington

Janet

5th Anniversary

Day 91

Trenton and I have been married for 5 years today. We have both learned an infinite amount during the time since we tied the knot. When I asked Trenton to sum up what he's learned, his response was simple and covered all the bases.

"If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy."

I've learned how to love harder than I thought possible, and how to forgive even harder. I've learned how to patch dry-wall, change the oil in our cars, and use power tools. My marriage mantra?

"Don't sweat the small stuff."

Bottom line is, I love the man more than the day I married him and we'd both do it again in a heartbeat.


Janet

After 10

Day 90

Did you guys know that the fitting rooms at Wal-Mart are closed for business after 10 pm? I didn't know that until today because I don't think I've ever actually tried something on there- they have such a rockin' return policy that I always figure I can bring it back if it doesn't fit. Anyway, I decided to make sure I had truly exhausted all my options before buying the painfully expensive pair I mentioned last night, and Wal-Mart was one place I hadn't considered yet. But to my surprise-they lock their fitting rooms after 10...in a 24 hour store. One employee actually said she didn't even know where they "hide" the key at night. I'm usually pretty good about letting things go. I hate when people abuse the, "let me speak to your manager," line, and I absolutely hate when people think that rules can be bent specially for them. But this was just too stupid. Do you know what this manager's solution was? She offered to escort me to the restroom and supervise me as I tried the pants on. She was suggesting that I lock myself into a tiny, poo-smeared stall with an automatic toilet that would be flushing in reaction to my every move, while she stood at the door supervising me. I couldn't even respond. I just stared at her in disbelief and apparently the horrified look on my face was all it took for her to "find" the key to the fitting room. True story.

Janet

Jeans and Genes

Day 89

It is in my genetic code to be tall. My mom is 5'9'' and my Dad is 6'5''. I am 5'11''. That has always been a problem in the clothing department. When I find a pair of jeans that fit and are long enough, I treat them with the utmost respect. I have maintained a pair of jeans that I've had since high school and recently found an unpatchable hole in the back pocket (and not the so-called fashionable kind of hole). Another pair of oldies-but-goodies, would have lasted longer, but I tripped and ripped the knee clean out of the right leg. Every other pair I own are either too big, too short, or so small that I suddenly have the "muffin-top" phenomenon going on. It was my goal today to find a pair of jeans. No- the pair of jeans. It is no exaggeration when I say that I tried on 23 pairs of jeans. Yes, I counted...mostly to prove a point to my husband. You're probably thinking I'm just overly critical of myself, and that's probably a little true, but I really do have the WORST time finding pants that look acceptable. I would rather shop for bathing suits than pants. But the last store I walked into, the Buckle, welcomed me with open arms. I was suddenly surrounded by walls dripping with extra long (36''inseam!) jeans. They had every color and style imaginable-and they all came in extra long. And if you haven't already guessed-I found the jeans. They do all the right things for me in all the right places. Angels sang. The only inappropriate thing about them is the price. I have always been secretly judgemental of people who spend exorbitant amounts of money on such worthless items-but today I learned, in a very literal sense, that the value of something is so completely relative. And I am repentant for the judgement I've passed in the past. If you're wondering, I didn't buy the jeans yet. I plan on making a date out of it on Friday. Maybe I'll even treat them to dinner and dancing.

Janet

Sleepy

Day 88 (Tuesday, April 6)

Okay-I didn't post yesterday because I have been more tired than I think I've ever been (barring pregnancy) the last couple days. I'm the kind of tired that forces me to literally hold my eyelids open with my fingers. I fell asleep last night at 6:30 and slept through the night. So I guess what I learned yesterday is that I have the most understanding and compassionate husband. He didn't disturb me once to help with the kids last night. Or maybe he did and I was just too tired to acknowledge him.

Janet

Day 87 (Monday, April 5)

I instructed my two year old to "hold on" today and she actually asked, "to what?"

Janet

Where I Am

Day 86

I am not ashamed to say that there are still times that I wonder who I'd be if I had made different decisions after high school. I had the opportunity to go to a music school in New York City-even got a scholarship (puny as it may have been). I would have arrived at my dorm in Manhattan in late August of 2001 right before the attacks on the World Trade Center. I had been rocking back and forth for several weeks on whether or not I was going to make that leap. It wasn't until my mom called me at work to let me know that the school had contacted her and needed a response that I finally knew. It was one of those pivotal moments where my life could have gone so differently. It just wasn't my path. I can't tell you how much I upset my teachers at the conservatory, dance studio, and friends that had been so encouraging-but I knew it wasn't right. I decided to get my degree in Communication from a state college, live in England, get married, and now I am the mother of two beautiful children. I know there are some people from that time in my life that view me as a sell out. And there are still days, especially since the invention of Facebook, that I am confronted with friends that did choose that path and have been very successful- and it makes me wonder who I'd be. But then I have days like today- where I can step back and realize I am exactly where I should be. What could possibly be better than genuinely loving and being loved by your best friend and having brought two, gorgeous, extensions of you into the world? I realized today that I didn't give anything up- I gained everything!

And don't worry...I'll still be on that stage somewhere, someday.
Janet

General Conference

Day 85

Keeping with the warm, fuzzy feeling of General Conference, I read this talk by the President of our church, Thomas S. Monson. His advice in, "Three Goals to Guide You," is to

1. Study diligently
2. Pray earnestly
3. Serve willingly

You can read the entire message here- http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=73b81b3e50cf5110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD

Power Tools

Day 84
Until today I had never used a compound miter saw. Yeah baby!


Janet