sting

This is going to sound quite childish, but today I had my feelings hurt.

Twice.

And with each time, neither person realized what they had so inadvertently accomplished.

It reminds me to be careful, and watch for those thoughtless words/actions that can so easily be set free.

today I am here.

Today, I reflected on old blog posts. I let Gracie's sweet voice sweep bittersweet tears from my eyes. I thanked God for what is, and for the path I've walked, danced, stumbled down, believed in to get to what is.

I remembered lonely me from before. Lonliness that came long before being the wife of a deployed sailor. Lonliness that could find me so easily, even as I stood surrounded by others.

I don't know how I maneuvered out of it, but I am so grateful that I did.

I love being more secure in who I am as a person. I love being a wife, a mother.

A wife.

A mother.

(It just bears repeating, doesn't it??)

Last night, I took my child trick-or-treating. It was wonderful. She was wonderful! And when we were done, we tucked up inside and went through the goodies. I sorted out the things she couldn't quite yet partake in (gum, treats with nuts) and she enjoyed her spoils. And it was perfect.

Today, I am here. And it is perfect.

daily antics

Dear Daddy,

Here are some things I've been up to while you're away:

coloring reading books carving pumpkins going to the park with grandpa spending time with Dix and Jackson and missing you (to name a few.)

I love you.

Love,

Gracie

what we're listening to

Thanks to a friend's gift, one of our favorite family albums is by Elizabeth Mitchell.

We especially love tracks number 4 and 5. I love hearing Grace spontaneously burst into "Three Little Birds" in the middle of her play!

And so, without further ado, this is what we're listening to!

how great would this be?

Scott and I have been talking about investing in bikes, now that we're a one-car family. I would be thrilled to own a bike like this! How easily I can picture myself at the helm, and excited, big blue eyes peering out of the bucket seat!

Check out Madsen Cycles by clicking on the picture above!

successes

CELEBRATE! Successes again and

again and again! Ice cream is in order

with

gummi bears on top! Hard work

recognized and rewarded! And above all, pride in

her accomplishments!

Congratulations, Princess!

Mommy and Daddy knew you could do it!

love.