tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27706206769737495082024-03-13T04:52:29.544-04:00The Virtual WifeDeep thoughts and funny stories from the trenches of Motherhood. Hope this helps you get through the day!Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-63842829400519349322019-06-12T18:42:00.002-04:002019-06-12T18:51:06.692-04:00Accepting My Life is Different than Yours<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPC9AuCjRr3XI2whTfvd6azOqBShcITZuaufjkEazrvg20RP3210s2BM5PgNCaY5lsEg4kkYrUg2eyoCuNm8e_QUKeFBiXMXyovtyCtlVzQhuVUTbInasD0a1yN8y7DpzesiHAbtjA-VOV/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-06-12+at+6.50.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="984" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPC9AuCjRr3XI2whTfvd6azOqBShcITZuaufjkEazrvg20RP3210s2BM5PgNCaY5lsEg4kkYrUg2eyoCuNm8e_QUKeFBiXMXyovtyCtlVzQhuVUTbInasD0a1yN8y7DpzesiHAbtjA-VOV/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-06-12+at+6.50.20+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I haven't written in a while and I have wanted to for some time. So here I am, back at it and I wanted to discuss why most of us are constantly comparing ourselves, our lives, our kids, our whatever, to other people. WHY? First you should remember that the story you think you see, the truth you think you know, is almost never the truth behind the curtain. And I've come to realize that it's not even intentional most of the time. Most of us just like to share our favorite pictures or a happy day and that's great. But please remember, that is about 10% of the full story. And also, even if it is the absolute truth, good for you. Seriously, I hope that everyone is happy and healthy and doing amazing things. Even if my life feels messy and hard and exhausting, I still hope that yours is amazing.<br />
<br />
More important, what "they" are doing with their lives has absolutely nothing to do with what I am doing in my life. LIKE NONE! Zero, Nada...Look, it took my son 5 years to graduate high school. Yup, not college, high school. He made the very mature decision in the middle of his senior year to take a medical leave and do it all over again the following year. And I am sure it was hard on him, to watch his friends graduate and move on and have to head back to school without them. But you guys, it may have been way harder for me. Like really, really hard. But he graduated and he's headed to a good school in the honors program with a merit scholarship. And it taught me a few life lessons:<br />
<br />
1. <b>Every path is different.</b> EVERY. PATH. IS. DIFFERENT. There are a million places to go and a million ways to get there. There is no one right way to do life. Don't let anyone tell you it "should" be this way or that. That is bullshit.<br />
<br />
2. <b>It's almost never about you.</b> People will judge you because things that are different make them nervous. When someone does something different, it makes them question whether they are doing it right and that makes people nervous. Its' okay to be you. It's okay to do something that someone else doesn't understand. Don't take their judgement personally.<br />
<br />
3. <b>Be true to yourself.</b> This one is hard, I get it. Sometimes we lose sight of who we are, what we want with so many messages in the world about who we should be. Lucky for me, the Universe sent me two very unique, very different, very strong individuals who scream out loud daily about who they are. Watching my oldest son walk away from kids he no longer wanted to be friends with or decide not to go to a party everyone was at definitely made me uncomfortable, but he couldn't care less. He knew what he wanted to do and why. And my youngest son has dyed his hair a few different colors including pink without a care in the world about what the world would think. I am 43 years old and it has taken me this long to love myself that much. You are you, celebrate it, own it and be amazing. If someone else is uncomfortable, that has nothing to do with you.<br />
<br />
4.<b> It will all work out.</b> This is also a hard one to believe in the moment. In the moment, there is stress and helplessness and fear. But what I have learned is that those feelings are almost never helpful. Most of the time, when we are past the hard part and the sun is shining, we can look back and see how crazy our fear was. If we can remember this in the moment, we can enjoy life more. We can dance in the rain instead of be angry that the sun isn't shining.<br />
<br />
My life is probably nothing like yours and it most certainly didn't go according to any plan. When I married my husband it was "supposed" to be forever. My son was "supposed" to be the class of 2018. And I could list about a hundred more things that were "supposed" to be. I can spend all day comparing my life to everyone else's but to what end, I am where I am. And where I am is pretty amazing. And where you are is pretty amazing too.Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-39400553038172821962015-02-21T00:41:00.000-05:002015-02-21T00:41:18.932-05:00The Danger with Fairy Tales (and Fifty Shades of Grey)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqj35cECmNogPjxu9IGlVTrpHEmffcrjFJH0sb-vFCpmdv-3tah0nniRl6SrFuPr3SoFDFjKximYoOzOHWeglSL5KWaZ8REwdeGJvJSjWoJnnTCFbCY4OhvJx9G1KsPwOduQncgYir5ktu/s1600/Fairy+tale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqj35cECmNogPjxu9IGlVTrpHEmffcrjFJH0sb-vFCpmdv-3tah0nniRl6SrFuPr3SoFDFjKximYoOzOHWeglSL5KWaZ8REwdeGJvJSjWoJnnTCFbCY4OhvJx9G1KsPwOduQncgYir5ktu/s1600/Fairy+tale.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
First let me say that I LOVE fairy tales. I have always wanted to be a princess and would happily walk around in tutus and tiaras if I could get away with it. I also read every book in the Fifty Shades of Grey series and found them very enjoyable. But at some point in my mid-twenties, while watching Ever After with Drew Barrymore (still a huge favorite) it dawned on me that there really is no <i>happily ever after </i>and it kind of pissed me off.<br />
<br />
I think of myself as a strong woman who can certainly provide for and take care of herself. But I am also a hopeless romantic who has been told since I was too little to remember that if we looked hard enough, we would find our prince charming, that he would complete us and that that would be enough. What little girl doesn't want to be Cinderella or Ariel or Belle. And yes, I do believe in my prince charming, but not exactly the way Disney spins it.<br />
<br />
First, the idea of "...and they lived happily ever after" is a terrible lie. This one should be self explanatory, especially if you are or have been married. And I am not saying that we won't find our own version of this, but...most fairy tales conclude with the dream wedding (another stupid notion costing absurds amount of money and causing way too much stress), they kiss and then it pans away and The End. Um...how about The Beginning. Cause shit gets real after that. The first year of marriage, kids, jobs, money issues, in-laws and so much more. We are not told the truth and we are certainly not prepared. Have you ever heard the saying that what screws us up the most is the picture in our head of how it's supposed to be? Yup, pretty much.<br />
<br />
Another very scary notion that a lot of us woman buy into is that we can change him. There are so many stories of a "bad" boy falling in love and ending up as the nice guy in the end. It only took the love of a good woman. And this is where my Fifty Shades of Grey discussion comes in. Make no mistake, under the handcuffs and kinky sex, this is a modern day fairy tale. There is a young innocent girl who falls in love with and captures the heart of a cold, super rich guy who happens to have some dangerous habits. I loved the books and couldn't wait to see the movie (which I did really like as well). However, something happens when you see it on the big screen and the reality of "punishment" cannot be denied. On the way home, my husband to said to me, "I don't care how much I didn't like a woman, I would never hurt her." And that is when it hit me that in real life, the ending to this story would not be the same. If a man believes that it is okay to hurt a woman, even with rules and consent, girlfriend you need to run away and never go back. Because in real life, he does not end up changing and he is definitely not your prince charming.<br />
<br />
I am very lucky to have been raised by a strong woman and kind father who taught me what real love and commitment looked like. I wanted what they had even if I didn't know it when I was 10 and wanted desperately to be Cinderella. I think that even as adults we still struggle with what Hollywood says we should want and the reality of life. I think Frozen was a huge step in the right direction, but we have a lot more work to do.Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-43536972557095073302014-09-06T15:36:00.000-04:002014-09-06T15:36:22.050-04:00Before I Turn 40, 330 Days and Counting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WjYuBBYCrywgeiqQyMOcZOtkM6WZxej2ET2Eq1kaVMhmwhcAKahOEdwd15AKPV2_0wA94yHXr9Bweay4XjwyJWW3wn78PxoTOqeykscLcyr4PrE3pKxBfaeWmZn8eTHal3QItRAfFRcf/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-09-06+at+3.34.52+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WjYuBBYCrywgeiqQyMOcZOtkM6WZxej2ET2Eq1kaVMhmwhcAKahOEdwd15AKPV2_0wA94yHXr9Bweay4XjwyJWW3wn78PxoTOqeykscLcyr4PrE3pKxBfaeWmZn8eTHal3QItRAfFRcf/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-09-06+at+3.34.52+PM.png" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As I sit here, 39 years old, leaving New York city on the train, I am in deep thought about who I am, who I want to be and what is important to me. I am not really that concerned with age and aside from the wrinkles and gray hair, I have no problem getting older. Age for me has brought clarity. The last couple of years I have decided that less is more for most things like material possessions, people that don't feed my soul and everything unhealthy. Once I removed those place holders from my life, I have found that I have so much more room for the things that matter to me like hugs and kisses, joy of time spent with loved ones and moments of happiness. And don't get me started on drama - I try to stay as far away from that as possible. <br />
<br />
I spent the night in NYC visiting a friend and it was wonderful. Not because I was in the city that never sleeps, but because I was with one of my closest friends. We have been friends since sixth grade and while we don't get to see each very often, we pick up right where we left off every time. And while our lives have changed considerably since we graduated high school and have taken very different paths, we have both stayed true to who we are. Our friendship is proof that true love and soul mates can come in many forms.<br />
<br />
I looked around the city as we rushed from place to place and I realized that I wanted exactly the opposite of what it all stood for. I know that many people have a love affair with New York City, my friend included, so this isn't personal against you if you do. But for me, I want simple and open and fresh. I want less stuff and less people trying to sell me stuff. And while you can live simply in the city, it sure isn't cheap. And as 40 looms around the corner, I want a life that isn't ruled by how much money I make or have, but more about how much time I have to enjoy my moments that are free. I want to play on the beach with my six year old or spend rare moments in deep conversations with my fourteen year old or quiet moments doing nothing much with my husband.<br />
<br />
I will admit that I dream of living off the grid, being self-sustaining and adore the idea of a tiny house. But let's get real. The idea of living with a my six and fourteen year old in a 400 square foot home makes me want to stick a fork in my eye, plus I really do adore my home. And while homesteading is a huge dream of mine, I barely have time or energy to keep my one flower plant alive never mind grow a garden big enough to feed my family on. And so my goal for the next 330 days is to enjoy my moments more, focus on experiences over stuff and a live a simple, happy, healthy and meaningful life. <br />
<br />
<i>Disclaimer</i>: I will still love you if my perfect life isn't right for you. I will not judge you, look down on you or gossip about you if you live a big, crazy, extravagant life full of shopping and junk food. As long as you are happy and true to yourself then go for it. And don't get me wrong, I used to love to shop, drink Coke and eat Doritos, but the older I get the less fulfilling those things are for me and so I decided to look elsewhere. But I definitely still look back with nostalgia. Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-20748936386915987082014-01-12T12:17:00.000-05:002014-01-12T12:17:30.895-05:00Make no apologizes for who you are...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTszNePe0raCXWHuXZJjLQg6VEhgtxVf-Jj7fs5XfsZyUlYgsudWL0VyQmJY8aDE5QocP9cYwavgDu72GsVNNSNAQNXR5Ucki7bC-KlGhFPtfsHK-ThxkfSaXiySP3kgyKXINoOaktf0LU/s1600/journey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTszNePe0raCXWHuXZJjLQg6VEhgtxVf-Jj7fs5XfsZyUlYgsudWL0VyQmJY8aDE5QocP9cYwavgDu72GsVNNSNAQNXR5Ucki7bC-KlGhFPtfsHK-ThxkfSaXiySP3kgyKXINoOaktf0LU/s1600/journey.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My family has been through some obstacles over the last couple of years that have forced us to examine some things and make some big changes. Like a lot of people, a big health scare can cause you to look at things related to your health and figure out how you can do things better. For my family that meant eating healthy and clean. My husband chose to go the vegan path (which truthfully I balked at in the beginning) and after experimenting with an elimination diet to see how food is effecting my body, I am now gluten free, dairy free (mostly), no eggs or processed foods. I try to buy most things organic, non GMO, and mostly foods with ingredients that are real. My kids have not been as excited to jump on the band wagon, but that is our work in process. Because most of what I have been taught by the world around me all my life (health class, commercials, magazines, etc) is less than accurate, I have had to seek out new knowledge. This learning has been eye-opening for me. I get excited and I want to share. Different people view this differently. Some of my friends are also excited by what I share, but I know others roll their eyes and probably feel as though I share too much. I would like to say right now, that if you do not appreciate what I share, than I am totally fine with being blocked or unfriended - I get it and I will not be hurt.<br />
<br />
But let me explain why I share. First, my sharing is not about being better than anyone or judging you. <b>How I choose to live my life, does not mean that I am judging how you live your life.</b> I don't pretend to know everything and I certainly don't pretend to understand your journey. But I can share my journey and I do so for a couple reasons. One, I need to hold myself accountable. This is a major life change and it's hard sometimes to stay on a challenging path. What better way to hold myself accountable than to put it out there for my friends and family to see. The main reason I share, however, is because I want to help. Seriously! What I have been through in the last couple years and most recently when I changed how I viewed food, has been literally life changing for me. I have seen people struggle with weight, health and self worth both privately and now with social media, very publicly, all my life. The messages out there prey on these struggles and a person's self worth. The diet industry has made billions on this viscous cycle they they created. If they told you the truth to being healthy, you would never need their products again. The truth is that there is no quick fix, no magic pill or shake or exercise video that will buy you what you want. But I digress...I share because I want to help anyone who is interested. Again, if you aren't interested than by all means, ignore me. But I do ask that you don't judge me because I am honestly not judging you.<br />
<br />
One more thing I would like you to keep in mind is that I am not perfect. I have set some lofty goals for myself, but I am only human and as such, I fail sometimes. Sometimes I have a piece of pizza while at a party, sometimes I get my kids fast food for dinner, and I even die my hair with products that aren't organic knowing full well they are probably not the best for me. It happens and I am okay with that because I live in the real world with work and kids and basketball schedules and unexpected shit that happens from time to time. I cannot drive myself crazy about all the choices I make, but I can try my best to stick to my plan most of the time.<br />
<br />
Your journey may not be about health. It may be about religion, education, love or changing the world. But you should never have to apologize for who you are or have others make you feel bad about your choices because they disagree. Our lives are hard enough when we have people on our side cheering us on. Let's all agree that we may not choose the same paths, but we can definitely choose to respect the paths that others have chosen.Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-72025251541078697082013-12-26T09:16:00.001-05:002013-12-26T09:16:48.410-05:00Beautiful Skin the natural way<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ePzJeHFH_f6uYf2BpnPov_t2ssjEQMlIOqm7fitLFeJ7nD9C1-E5T1lfu2m4HzyWnKlSaMOxQyUEXKYVx4TTNlhwvQ-9Y3eGnpIEUQsx0SMoPpesXmLGajiupYhFwyj-NLRmGSbFwUqt/s1600/cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ePzJeHFH_f6uYf2BpnPov_t2ssjEQMlIOqm7fitLFeJ7nD9C1-E5T1lfu2m4HzyWnKlSaMOxQyUEXKYVx4TTNlhwvQ-9Y3eGnpIEUQsx0SMoPpesXmLGajiupYhFwyj-NLRmGSbFwUqt/s320/cream.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
New Blog on The Natural Wife, check it out:<br />
<br />
http://naturalwife.blogspot.com/2013/12/beautiful-skin-natural-way.htmlRebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-13740506666749552552013-11-15T11:30:00.005-05:002013-11-15T11:30:47.677-05:00Natural Wife Blog - Heal Your Body with FoodJust launched The Natural Wife Blog, check it out!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://naturalwife.blogspot.com/2013/11/heal-your-body-with-food.html">http://naturalwife.blogspot.com/2013/11/heal-your-body-with-food.html</a><br /><br />
Happy Friday!Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-76119599965480248252013-11-07T13:42:00.003-05:002013-11-07T13:42:51.945-05:00The Joy of Giving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOOWmlfaZfOYllDEnATgyvQBC5A9mjVsqYN_xIzciw-i59ZRFMnOdz3ejRr4SU94d_q88pm3s-8lv6oHyMBbBifGSW4rNNz7zwBc5Jugph4hOoavJrRBchXOwXAtMFgUKq7gYWxO5AQ0a-/s1600/scrub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOOWmlfaZfOYllDEnATgyvQBC5A9mjVsqYN_xIzciw-i59ZRFMnOdz3ejRr4SU94d_q88pm3s-8lv6oHyMBbBifGSW4rNNz7zwBc5Jugph4hOoavJrRBchXOwXAtMFgUKq7gYWxO5AQ0a-/s320/scrub.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here I sit, seven days after Halloween and the stores are already selling Christmas decorations (and already on sale?) and commercials on TV are already talking about holiday shopping, not to mention Black Friday. I hear people talk all the time about enough being enough and yet they all still rush out to shop, filling the stores and spending more money than they have to spend. Times are tough out there, but you wouldn't know it in the 5 weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. So I am wondering, is this what it is really all about? Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Christmas and Hanukkah and all that goes along with it. My tree will probably go up before Thanksgiving. I love giving and getting gifts, a lot. But I still believe it has to mean more. <br />
<br />
A couple years ago, I remember thinking that we had probably done things all wrong. Our living room was filled to the brim with gifts for our four boys. It was gorgeous and nauseating all at once. It probably took 30 minutes of insanity for them to open everything and retire to the playroom to play one of their new video games. And I was left with somewhat of an empty feeling. We have slowly dialed it back, having less to spend and realizing it was better to buy them each a couple things they really wanted, would play with and remember than buying things for the sake of filling up the living room or worrying that everyone got the same amount of gifts (no one even pays attention to anyone else long enough to know or count).<br />
<br />
I have started to make gifts for my friends and family. I have found that these gifts mean more, feel much better giving, cost less and are usually tailored better to each person. One year I made monogrammed tote bags, another brown sugar scrub. It allows me to get creative as well as give quality, healthier gifts to people I love. And with Pinterest leading the way, you can find almost anything to make. It does require a bit more planning, but I can't wait to get started!<br />
<br />
Gift ideas include lotions, scrubs, candles, bags, scarves, and so much more for the ladies in my life. For the kids there are blocks, dolls, sensory boards, teepees, to name a few. The teenagers are a bit tougher, as they told me money was good. Even there I found some creative ways to wrap and give money gifts to make it fun and last more than 1 minute on Christmas morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGEL2QI51bWvrHBwzJYTZigPDxIMP6sdQrHVeER782aq8S5p8koGpoI-GXzYFdZDJYNz1fCArOlHeafrtWOxZ7X5HrVvEU-YCTENKWazaP5ukkDkrM3iqBGj13pxjUsR8zJ4BWAgSXvBg/s1600/teepee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGEL2QI51bWvrHBwzJYTZigPDxIMP6sdQrHVeER782aq8S5p8koGpoI-GXzYFdZDJYNz1fCArOlHeafrtWOxZ7X5HrVvEU-YCTENKWazaP5ukkDkrM3iqBGj13pxjUsR8zJ4BWAgSXvBg/s320/teepee.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
I just have no desire to go shopping this season (and that is something I thought I would never say). Everything out there is overpriced, impersonal and usually poor quality. This year I will take spend my hours cozy on my couch, browsing Pinterest and making yummy gifts for the people I love. And there is nothing wrong with recycling or upcycling items. My younger son loves it when I give him gifts that used to be his older brothers' because he thinks they are really cool and the fact that he know has the stuff they used to play with is very exciting. Sometimes, gifts passed down mean even more.<br />
<br />
I am excited to have more time this holiday season to enjoy my cheerfully decorated home, with a warm fire with friends and family. And I am very excited to get to work making wonder gifts for all the wonderful people in my life.<br />
<br />
Happy Holidays!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-cNkVtPWS3pE0eQHSnpAmdSZ8pxSrd_lD47W4t7aFWJ2mZx-v3gR0jBlO__6tCOhpMcM6Uc9HPvQB_2qCzk7iyUVXbJLgTwG5BbQiJpH7B_FUQOpMvSLuWnIZ0LYyuD5KLNWiLb6Ph6Y/s1600/scarves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-cNkVtPWS3pE0eQHSnpAmdSZ8pxSrd_lD47W4t7aFWJ2mZx-v3gR0jBlO__6tCOhpMcM6Uc9HPvQB_2qCzk7iyUVXbJLgTwG5BbQiJpH7B_FUQOpMvSLuWnIZ0LYyuD5KLNWiLb6Ph6Y/s320/scarves.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-2476449656570242452013-03-11T14:06:00.000-04:002013-03-11T14:06:40.840-04:00A Happy Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0uMPw8O9o1gYEa8sOvob3Gu_I5T58l8QbYECCWIh1l_f1azdOUI5PqVgVNfhqb0DRL4Wn_doWMaVcddM_YtsgLSaxSXz5Gtz6Aau2MRkuDv62RgD8JIfh3wrhiAWpkiUNq825yJgzSr5v/s1600/happiness.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0uMPw8O9o1gYEa8sOvob3Gu_I5T58l8QbYECCWIh1l_f1azdOUI5PqVgVNfhqb0DRL4Wn_doWMaVcddM_YtsgLSaxSXz5Gtz6Aau2MRkuDv62RgD8JIfh3wrhiAWpkiUNq825yJgzSr5v/s320/happiness.png" width="320" /></a></div>
I am always amazed that when you put something out there in the universe, you see it come back to you in so many different ways. As I have begun my happiness challenge, the idea of happiness seems to be everywhere. My friend shared this great blog the other day that sure enough is all about happiness. It's a great blog, where the author pretty much shares that happiness is not her goal for her children. She goes on to say that she hopes they find their purpose. When she became a mom, she found her purpose which in turn has made her happy. Hmmm... I hope you read it (after mine of course), its a great blog - http://www.huffingtonpost.com/devon-corneal/pursuit-of-happiness_b_2805982.html.<br />
<br />
It's not that I don't agree with her, but I think it's more a difference of definition. The first definition I found of "happy" was "Feeling or showing pleasure or contentment." This is probably the definition that most people think of when they talk about being happy. It is impossible to be happy (as defined here) all the time. I know that, most people know that. Some days are good days, some days aren't. Sometimes it's minute to minute. But the second definition I found, "Having a sense of confidence in or satisfaction with (a person, arrangement, or situation)"is much more on target for me. When I end the sentence with "myself or my life as a whole," I think that happiness is a perfect goal.<br />
<br />
I was so very lucky to grow up with two very loving parents. And I would definitely say that my childhood was happy. Was is carefree? No. Was it conflict free? Nope. Did I get everything I wanted? Not even close. There were times when my parents fought, times when money was tight and my friends could afford things we couldn't and times of self-doubt. But I was raised to be strong and true to myself and I know that this is why I have been lucky enough to be happy in my life no matter what unexpected things are thrown at me.<br />
<br />
The truth is that life will not always be easy. In fact, the good things are usually a lot of hard work. I wasn't always happy putting in the hard work I needed to do to achieve my goals, but I was overjoyed when it finally paid off. I also truly believe that while we can't always choose what happens to us in life, we can choose how we are going to react. We can make lemonade or we can pout in a corner. Happiness is a journey, it is a state of mind and it is a choice. <br />
<br />
So do I want my kids to be happy? You bet. I want them to believe that with hard work they can achieve anything. I want them to have faith in themselves and know how wonderful they are. I want them to see that even in the hardest of times, you can find happiness if you look hard enough. Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-46563960340324662962013-03-07T16:07:00.000-05:002013-03-07T16:07:16.652-05:0030 Days to Being Happier - My Rough Start<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPafqrRMgauLiJMC98j7lPY1pO1rAJ1hxZfrlIUKYMjgNOvRe9JrLKaaR3jYU4vBla7LlJcoipyHFFkr9a8JF3oL8AyCybp_AB7hPIkgzF3KuR5LlFlMS4QgLcKotKDMOqbaURVII65chP/s1600/blog+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPafqrRMgauLiJMC98j7lPY1pO1rAJ1hxZfrlIUKYMjgNOvRe9JrLKaaR3jYU4vBla7LlJcoipyHFFkr9a8JF3oL8AyCybp_AB7hPIkgzF3KuR5LlFlMS4QgLcKotKDMOqbaURVII65chP/s320/blog+pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Okay, so I have two days of "being happier" behind me now and I have to admit they were terrible failures. My hypothesis was, that by acting happier myself, my family would in turn be happier which would make me truly happier (and not just pretending to be happy) - kind of like "fake it til you make it." Apparently, my husband and kids did not get the memo.<br />
<br />
I am pretty sure that happiness might be elusive while you have a 5 year old and a 12 (almost 13) year old living at your house. And if you are one of those woman who say, "love and appreciate them now because they will grow up so fast and you will miss them when they are gone," then I call bullshit. Honestly, you are either completely delusional or you have a full time nanny. Besides, who said they would ever be gone? Seriously, ask my parents - they probably see us more now than when we were in high school and I guarantee they like us more now anyway. <br />
<br />
I will admit that I did yell less. But this was simply an act of will. Yesterday afternoon I remember chanting the words, "I will not yell, I will not yell..." over and over under my breath as I walked up the stairs for the tenth time to break up the kids fighting because the little one was "being annoying" while the older one played video games online with his friends. Sure, I could have turned the video games off but that would make my life way more difficult and so I trudged through. I did a little better at bedtime as well, simply leaving the room when my five year old pretended to fight zombies instead of rolling over to go to sleep. The temper tantrum that ensued when I walked out was the same had I yelled however, so not sure who won that round. <br />
<br />
I tried really hard with my husband too, overlooking the fact that our darling son was still awake when I got home from my Jr. Women's Club meeting at 9:30 pm as well as unbathed. That turned around to bite me in the ass however, because apparently you have to actually let this stuff go instead of just suppressing it which leads to an angry explosion 24 hours later and tends to make things worse. <br />
<br />
As I am having a hard time finding success on my own, I decided to reach out to the ever accessible world on the internet looking for some direction or inspiration. I remember hearing about a 'better wife challenge' at some point and so that is where I decided to start. If you are interested it's called "Loving Him Well" and its quite honestly the biggest load of crap I have ever heard of. It's all about finding out what your husband needs from his wife and being all that - I am pretty sure you had to check your self-esteem and self-worth at the door and turn into his perfect Stefford Wife. No thanks, keep looking...<br />
<br />
Then I found a pretty great blog, http://www.motherhooduncensored.net that had both a 'Be a better spouse challenge' and a 'Be a better parent challenge.' These seemed pretty easy to follow and not too self-deprecating and so I figured I could follow along. My assignment for the first two days with my spouse was to Let Bygones be Bygones (meaning leave the past in the past and not keep bringing it up year after year) and To Accept Them For Who They Are (pretty self-explanatory). I think after our fight yesterday, I pretty much bombed on both. These should be so easy in theory but god are they hard. I will be the first to admit that I want both of these things in return, so why can't I offer my husband the same respect? Clearly, I have some work to do...<br />
<br />
On the parenting front, my assignment for day one was "Being present for my kids." I have known for some time that this was an issue for me so I have been trying to work on this one. Basically, the dishes can wait 5 minutes to listen to your kids or even just to snuggle. I swear I have OCD when it comes to a clean house, but I have to remind myself constantly that in the long run that is not as important as my kids. Not to mention that I am constantly reminded of a saying, "Cleaning with kids in the house is like trying to brush your teeth while eating oreos." This is a work in progress for me but a great reminder. It also gives me a chance to take a break, slow down and smile and snuggle which is a great way to be good to myself at the same time. I will need to remember to this much more often.<br />
<br />
Day two on the parenting front challenges me to "Punish without anger." Again, this is one of my own goals as well, goes hand in hand with the less yelling thing. This is definitely easier with my five year old because when we count down from 5 to 1, he is usually doing what we asked him to do (or not to do) by the time we get to 1. Although he has begun throwing tantrums lately and his own anger has been getting the best of him. I find hugging and kissing with him as well as refocusing his attention is usually enough. But the tween, that is another story. It's like a test of will with him and an all out battle to see who can hold out longest and be most stubborn. Too bad for him that I have a lot of practice being stubborn and there ain't no way I am giving in. Unfortunately for both of us, this leads to some pretty nasty fights. And it is super hard to punish him because no matter what I say I am going to take away, he turns around and says, "Go ahead, I don't care." And honestly, grounding him is much more of a punishment for me. I truly believe we all benefit from him going to hang out at a friend's house. Typically when the kids misbehave it does make me angry so this is a really hard challenge...<br />
<br />
I am trying through all of this to do things each day that make me happy too, like take a bath or get my nails done. Oh yeah, and wine - that has been very helpful :-)<br />
<br />
Stay tuned for day three...<br />
<br />
<h3 class="entry-header">
<br /></h3>
Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-72078471954884590922013-03-05T17:22:00.000-05:002013-03-05T17:22:41.651-05:00Can You Be Happier in 30 Days?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisSso-BKE8JFpFT8v_EXILJSr8WoRUYqPF7314zsluwC0F5UGyX5Jry9RCu2QMy5N1aacnFTU1iC2MvM0H2sv7xeUCFgq8Ztj17VRiaZeJBzTgrdGu3oxUqIYaTw_3mwnDAcxwZUG80DlU/s1600/happiness-quotes-sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisSso-BKE8JFpFT8v_EXILJSr8WoRUYqPF7314zsluwC0F5UGyX5Jry9RCu2QMy5N1aacnFTU1iC2MvM0H2sv7xeUCFgq8Ztj17VRiaZeJBzTgrdGu3oxUqIYaTw_3mwnDAcxwZUG80DlU/s1600/happiness-quotes-sign.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Lately life has been challenging over here to say the least. For the last 60 days I feel like I have been living in survival mode. I haven't given much thought to the food we ate, cleaning the house or anything above just getting through the day or the week. Now that things have settled a bit (BIG THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO HELPED ME THROUGH), I realize that I also didn't put much effort into making sure my family or myself was happy. In fact, happiness seems to be one of those things that we tend to think a lot about in theory but not really try to put into action on a daily basis. For example, if I had X then I would be happy. Or we say (mostly in frustration because our kids are fighting) "I just want everyone to be happy!" And in the long run I know most parents have the goal of your children growing up happy. But what does that really mean? And what will really make you or them happy?<br />
<br />
This past weekend was "one of those days" (or many in a row) where I was just angry. No one in my family could do anything right and most things I might normally look the other way about, I would scream and yell and roll my eyes. I might have been a bit hormonal, but I will never actually admit that and god forbid if my husband suggested it. When the angry haze cleared I realized a couple things that put life in perspective.<br />
<br />
First - I was playing the victim. This one struck me pretty hard especially because over the last 2 months I refused to be the victim. I was a strong warrior who could push through anything or anyone to make things happen for the ones I loved. Maybe I was tired of being strong, everyone has their breaking point. But I am not a victim and I don't want to be. I have to stop blaming everyone for everything. I will, I promise.<br />
<br />
Second - I was making things worse. This was also especially hard to swallow. One of my goals in life is to make things better for my family, not make it worse. No one wants to be yelled at. My husband doesn't want it, my kids don't want and I don't want anyone to yell at me either. In fact, yelling is the perfect way to guarantee that no one will listen to you. This one is hard. I try not to yell, I really do. But after you have asked like 10 times, yelling seems to be the only solution. But it always makes everyone feel worse, including myself. Therefore, I will stop yelling (I would say I will try, but as I tell my kids 10 times a day, "there is no try, only do.").<br />
<br />
Third - How could I expect perfection from everyone else, when I wasn't giving it? Now I know that no one is perfect so I guess I need to let go of my expectation of perfection from everyone. What I guess I mean is that I cannot expect my family to speak nice to each other if I do not speak nice to them. Which has led to my personal challenge for the next 30 days...<br />
<br />
I hereby pledge, that I will take on the Be A Better Person Challenge for the next 30 days. Anyone with me? This will mean different things to different people. I plan on looking at 3 separate yet equal facets of my life - my husband, my children and myself - and do something everyday to be a better wife, mother and self. This is not going to be easy, but I am hoping that if leading by example will encourage my family to be better as well. Wish me luck!<br />
<div class="composeBoxWrapper GDACNK3CCIB">
<iframe aria-label="Edit post. Compose mode." class="composeBox editable" frameborder="0" id="postingComposeBox" name="Rich text editor" style="background-color: white; height: 100%; padding: 0px;"><br></iframe> </div>
Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-46193753184671789452013-01-04T14:01:00.000-05:002013-01-04T14:01:28.850-05:00Stop bitching, Start doing...At first glance, this may seem like a post where I bitch about other people bitching (and it might be a little). But I aim to go one step further and challenge you to stop bitching and starting doing. <br />
<br />
Recently, it seems to me that more people are bitching more and more about everything. They complain about politics, public programs, what others have that they don't, the weather, that not everyone calls it a "Christmas tree." If someone gives them a free coffee, you can bet they will bitch cause it isn't hot enough. I would like to know what the hell is the point of all the complaining? To make you feel better? Complaining doesn't actually make you feel better. In fact, being negative usually has the opposite effect - it makes you feel worse and more angry. So that someone will do something about? Typically, what it makes do people do is tune you out or join right in and bitch. So then you have 10 people bitching about something and no one doing anything about it. Therefore, the next time something bothers you enough to start a bitching post about it on Facebook - do this instead:<br />
<br />
1.<b> Determine if it effects you.</b> Seriously, ask yourself, "Do this personally effect me or someone I love?" If the answer is no, then why the hell do you care enough to bitch about it. At that point, focus on your life and make it better. <br />
<br />
2. <b>Research it</b>. Seriously, whatever you are about to complain about, look it up on the internet. My first guess is that you are about to complain about something that you know very little about. Not only is it annoying to everyone who reads your post who does know about it, but it makes you look ignorant. And it wastes a lot of negative energy for nothing. It is also kind of like spreading a rumor. Unfortunately, people take what they read on social media as truth these days and a lot of kids are on social media. Be informed before you bitch. Chances are, if you know the facts, you might not be so angry. <br />
<br />
3.<b> Follow your complaint with an action statement</b>. If something upsets you enough to want to tell people about it, you should also tell them how you plan to fix it. It should read something like this - I am upset about this and therefore I plan on doing this about it. Once you have done your research and you understand the situation better, you can now determine if what you are upset about can be changed. And if it can, then who better to change it than you. If you are unwilling to do anything about it then quit your bitching already cause you are a lazy ass. If you feel like it is too big for you, then ask for help. <br />
<br />
4. <b>Walk a mile in their shoes</b>. If are reading this and saying, What I was annoyed with was so-and-so at the coffee shop who did this to me today, there is no research or action statement involved...then I challenge you to play the role of the person who annoyed you. We tell our kids this all the time, but how many times do we do it ourselves? Maybe they are having a bad day. Maybe their kids, spouse, mother, etc is sick and they are upset. Maybe their husband just lost their job. The point is, you should be nice to someone not because they are nice to you but because you are a nice person.This is especially hard with the people who are the closest to us but means even more when you can see their side of things. <br />
<br />
5. <b>Let it go. </b>There are things we can change, things we can ask for help with and things that just are. If it is either of the first two then change it or ask for help. But if nothing can be done, then just let it go. Holding on to anger, annoyance or resentment only poisons you and those around you. You will feel much lighter if you just recognize you can't do anything and move on. <br />
<br />
I know there are some of you out there who think I am taking this too seriously, saying it was just a silly post on Facebook. But I truly believe you get back what you put out there. If everyone can stop even half their bitching in 2013, the world will be a much better place.<br />
<br />
<h1 style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;">“Be the change you want to see in the world.” - </span><span style="font-size: small;">Mahatma Gandhi </span></h1>
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-47993513169805452212012-11-18T20:40:00.002-05:002012-11-18T20:40:30.724-05:00There are some crazy people out there...<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Every now and then I sell our old shit on ebay. As Christmas approaches, I am trying to get rid of some old toys and "recycle" that money for new toys. Most of the time, buyers are great. But every now and then, you get a crazy. The following is a true account of my message back and forth from someone interested in buying a toy monorail that we bought in Disney like 10 years ago and had been sitting in the closet for like 8 years. <span style="font-size: small;">I<span style="font-size: small;"> copied it just as he send it, <span style="font-size: small;">fantastic grammar and all.</span></span></span> Enjoy...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Sent: </span><span>Nov-15-12 01:22 AM - </span><span style="color: black;">hi there can you take diiferent types of other payment's on this toy.</span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">My Response - </span></i><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><i>such as?</i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span></span><span>Sent: Nov-15-12 11:42 AM - </span><span style="color: black;">money order cashers check's or just plain cash.</span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">me thinking - yeah sure, let me wait while you send me cash, sorry buddy...</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">My real reply - </span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">No, sorry - paypal only. </span></span></span></i></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"></span></span></span><div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Sent: </span><span>Nov-16-12 04:30 PM - </span><span style="color: black;">sure be like that then and why didn't you E-mail right back then before i bid on it.</span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">How the hell am<span style="font-size: small;"> I suppose to know when you are going to bid on it. Why did<span style="font-size: small;">n't you wait to bi<span style="font-size: small;">d until <span style="font-size: small;">I answered your question? </span></span></span></span></span>He then retracted his bid...I did not reply. He, however, could not get over losing the toy monorail.</span></i></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Sent: </span><span>Nov-16-12 06:09 PM - </span><span style="color: black;">Oh
and a another thing there is a scam going around on people's paypal
account's and the scamer is trying to get into people's account's,and
boy just let me tell you i'am so happy that i don't have a paypal
account,so i don't have to worry about it just like you people do.</span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><i>I qui<span style="font-size: small;">ckly ch<span style="font-size: small;">anged my<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">eBay and <span style="font-size: small;">PayPal</span> passwords...</span></span></span></span></i></span></span> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><span>Sent:</span> </span><span>Nov-16-12 06:46 PM - </span><span style="color: black;">And
you say in your listing that your little conducter can recreate the
magic and it makes a great gift for a Disney Enthusiast what's up with
that,I don't understand that.</span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><i>Not sure how to reply to th<span style="font-size: small;">at...</span></i> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span>Sent: </span>Nov-16-12 07:34 PM - </span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;">Hi
there paypal that's fine with me I will have my brother pay for it,I'am
sorry I was just mad becuase you can't take a money order or a casher's
check.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"><i>He replaced his <span style="font-size: small;">bid...</span></i> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Sent: </span><span>Nov-16-12 07:36 PM - </span><span style="color: black;">does this come with a transformer or does this take batters.</span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">(he's a great speller by the way...)</span></span></i></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span>Sent: </span>Nov-17-12 03:12 AM - </span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;">Hi
there i really want your item my brother will pay for the item I was
just mad last nights will make my day if i win this and thank's for your
understanding with me i have a problem of getting very fast it's not
your fault my fault.ain i'am so sorry seller's come frist on e-bay on
here paypal no problem i can do that just like i said my brother will
pay for it thank's again.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;">(apparently this monorail is keeping him all night)</span></span></span></span></i></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;">My reply - </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;">No
worries! Good luck with the auction, thanks for figuring out a way for
us to work together. My husband used to get stressed and now he does
yoga. Thanks again!</span></span></span></span></span></i></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Sent: </span><span>Nov-17-12 05:50 PM - </span><span style="color: black;">Hi there i'am the winner just like i said my brother will pay for this just please give him a few day's.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"> </span> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;">I wonder if I will actually get the money and how long it will take.<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">By the way, you can b<span style="font-size: small;">uy the monor<span style="font-size: small;">ail on Disney<span style="font-size: small;">.com any time. </span></span></span></span></span></span><br /> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span> </span></span></span></div>
Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-8880340438725072092012-11-07T10:56:00.000-05:002012-11-07T10:59:51.965-05:00Why Can't We All Be Friends?The election is finally over, but it seems the hard feelings are just beginning. I know this because I am an avid reader on Facebook. I have always believed and I still believe that politics and religion have no place on social media sites. I am sure there are plenty of websites where you can go to voice your political/religious opinions where you will find lots of people who care what you think, but let me be the first to say that I am not one of them so please stay the hell out of my feed! It's not that I don't respect your views because I truly believe that everyone has the right to believe what they want to believe (that is why America is so great). But I think where most people fail is in accepting this freedom extends to everyone, even if and especially when they are different than yours. <br />
<br />
Over the last couple months, I have read ridiculous posts aimed at people who have different views. Smart, kind people have called their friends stupid, ignorant and worse. And to top it all off, the ones who have yelled the loudest are also the ones who get angry when someone attacks them. Listen, if you put it out there that is your choice and you have to expect someone might call you on it. I believe the saying goes, "you can dish it but you can't take it."<br />
<br />
I have sat on my computer day after day reading what my Facebook friends have to say and not always agreeing with their opinions. But I have felt a personal pride in refraining from telling them so. I have also refrained from telling anyone my opinion because I learned long ago that politics and religion are tricky subjects and best avoided (unless you are a politician, activist or religious leader and then it is your job to preach). No good can really come from this line of posts. Which leads me to ask this question - what exactly are you hoping to gain from posting your political views on Facebook? Maybe you are hoping that someone will agree with you and validate your beliefs. To this I respond, if you need this type of validation then how strong are your beliefs? Maybe you are hoping to sway someone to your side to which I respond, you get more flies with honey...We have all been bombarded with political ads on TV, radio, in our mailboxes, email boxes, voicemails and anywhere else they can figure out to reach us. Personally, none of that has swayed my opinion one way or other. So believe me, calling me stupid on Facebook is definitely not going to help your cause at all where I am concerned. I would guess most people agree.<br />
<br />
If you truly believe that I could learn something from you than talk to me. Let's have coffee and a friendly debate where we discuss facts and policies and real world examples. And if after our coffee is gone, we still don't agree then lets part as friends. <br />
<br />
In full disclosure, I have made one post that is political in nature. This morning I posted:<br />
<br />
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">"You
can either help America move forward or you can wish for the worst so
you can say, "I told you so." We all wake up as Americas who should want
the best for everyone in this country. Please find a way to swallow
your pride and help us move forward even if that means working across
the isle. You are either part of the solution or you are part of the
problem."</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">We are all so lucky to live in a country where we have the freedom to have these conversions. But as most things, there is a time and place...I am looking forward to getting my fun and friendly Facebook back, how about you?</span></span><br />
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-27706683133767844382012-10-01T15:14:00.001-04:002012-10-01T15:14:45.379-04:00Life is too damn hard...<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">...to worry about what everyone else is doing. It's definitely hard sometimes to remember this but it is so true. If we could all just live our lives without judging others, what a better place this world would be. I have long believed that if something does not directly affect you, then keep your opinions to yourself. This goes for gay marriage (and families), birth control (in any form), breast feeding, who slept with whom, and so on. Chances are those who judge the most could do some good from getting their own lives in order. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Why do I bring this up now? Good question. While trolling the internet (why I am suppose to be working), I found a great blog by a couple of women who tell it like they sees it and I loved it. So I thought I would share. The blog was written in June right after the controversial "Are you Mom Enough" TIME magazine cover, but the message is as timely as ever.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Here is the blog...</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.twotoosmartsmartassmommies.com/blog/that-damn-time-magazine.html">Two Too Smart, Smartass Mommies</a> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">A couple of my favorite quotes..</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">"It’s your choice whether
or not you are going to be a sanctimonious bitch...we certainly can’t control
anybody else’s actions...And if those actions don’t truly impact you in any discernable way,
back the hell up."</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Just some food for thought on a Monday... </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-3838442865025639792012-09-21T10:19:00.000-04:002012-09-21T10:19:12.946-04:00Ten Things I Learned From My Husband's Brain TumorRecently my husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor, had brain surgery and is still undergoing treatment. It has been a crazy journey that has only just begun. I have learned a lot in the last 5 weeks, some of which I thought I should share - here are my Top Ten...<br />
<br />
10. <b>Knowledge is Power</b> - The more informed you are about things in your life, the better decisions you can make. Most people won't intentionally mislead you, but they may be limited in their own knowledge and they may have their own agendas. Whether it comes to your health, your diagnosis, your treatment, even your kid's school - know everything there is to know and ask lots of questions. And always get a second opinion. Do not be afraid of offending anyone, you must be your own advocate! This is your life after all and you will be the one who has to live with the consequences.<br />
<br />
9.<b> Don't Sweat the Small Stuff</b> - Easier said than done most of the time, but if something isn't important in the scheme of things just let it go. There is nothing you can do about traffic, bad weather or spilled milk so just take a deep breath and realize that it isn't worth a second thought. <br />
<br />
8. <b>Pay attention to the little things</b> - Not to be confused with the "small stuff," the little things are the important things that add up like hugs, sunsets, compliments and kindness. Too often we go through life in autopilot and don't stop to smell the roses or take time to tell someone we love them, or even ask someone we love how their day was. These are the little things that add up and although small, mean a lot.<br />
<br />
7. <b>Practice Kindness</b> - "<span class="huge">Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.</span>" - Dalai Lama. This is my husband's favorite quote. Kindness is a hard thing to remember in the midst of everyday life.
Too often we go through the day adding up all the bad stuff that
happened to us - getting cut off in traffic, being late for work, kids
fighting...And then we take it out on others who just happen to get in
your way. If we can remember to let go of the small stuff and focus on
the little things then we can start to enjoy life more. And we can pass
it on. Especially when others are unkind to us, we must remember they could be suffering in some private way and your kindness may change their day too. <br />
<br />
6. <b>Ask for help</b> - This one is hard for both men and women, but so important.There are so many people who genuinely want to help but we are always afraid we are going to burden them. It takes a village to not only raise your kids but even to just get through the day sometimes. Most of your friends and family are offering because they truly want to help. Plus anything you ask, no matter how small, will make them feel useful and important - it's a win win!<br />
<br />
5. <b>You are what you eat </b>- I made a decision a while back to try to make healthier food decisions for my family. I don't always stick to it as strictly as I would like, but I try. My husband ate what I bought but he never really bought into it until his diagnosis. That is what a life changing event will do, change your life. He will never drink a Diet Coke again! When something goes wrong inside your body and there is no explanation why, you start to realize that there are things you can control, like how many chemicals you choose to put in your body. You only have one body and no one is going to take care of it for you. Obesity, ADHD, autism, these are all relatively new to the human race. We are animals after all and meant to eat meat and vegetables, not red dye #5. Processed food is just that, processed. They take out the good stuff and then try to compensate by putting artificial stuff back in. If you can't pronounce the ingredients or you don't know what they are then chances are they were developed in a lab to make the product more profitable while getting your taste buds hooked on it. Healthy eating can't prevent everything for happening when it comes to your health, but it can definitely prevent a lot and you have complete control over it. Don't take your kid's health for granted either, they don't a choice. That is in your hands, so do right by them as well.<br />
<br />
4. <b>If you have a choice, choose responsibly</b> - Things happen to us everyday that are totally out of our control. You could get hit by a car, get laid off or find out you have a brain tumor. However, there are so many things that we can control that we take for granted. For example, we can choose not to text and drive, not to smoke cigarettes. We can choose to eat healthier, work out, laugh more. Your choices do have consequences both good and bad. Be responsible with your life and with those around you.<br />
<br />
3. <b>Say You're Sorry </b>- say it often, mean it and make up for it. There are very few things in life worth damaging important relationships on. Just like the saying, "never go to bed angry," never leave the house angry, hang up angry, etc. Life is just too short. If you did something wrong, admit it, make up for it and move on. Even if you don't think you did something wrong, chances are you could have handled things differently and apologizing for that will start things in the right direction.<br />
<br />
2. <b>Be a better person </b>- we all want to do this but in practice it's really hard so we put it off saying we will do it tomorrow. You don't have to completely change who you are or donate all of your time to charity to be better. Just read numbers 3-10 and work on them little by little.<br />
<br />
1.<b> Be Happy</b> - To do this you may have to make some hard choices to let go of things that are dragging you down. This could be things, commitments or even people. You won't ever have a chance to do Today over, so make it the best day for you and your loved ones. Choose to be happy. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-60852233724641372572012-09-14T09:05:00.002-04:002012-09-14T09:05:47.135-04:00And Life Goes On...(repost from Guest Blog)This post was originally posted as a guest blog on Scarymommy.com<br />
<br />
My house is a complete disaster. There are dishes to be done, laundry to
put away and a million things to do before the first day of school
which happens to be tomorrow. And here I sit, feeling guilty about
taking time to explore my feelings. Guilt is a feeling I am quite
familiar with lately. Maybe that is normal when your husband has a brain
tumor, not sure since this is all new to me.<br />
<br />
Lately I have been guilty more than anything else. I feel guilty for all
the fights we had over the last year for things, it turns out, my
husband couldn’t control. I feel guilty for still getting angry at him
even though I know he probably still can’t control it, not to mention
all the stress that he is under. I feel guilty that our children have to
deal with something so big when they should just be enjoying their
childhoods. I feel guilty for letting my house go to shit. I feel guilty
for not being more vigilant about my husband’s diet (and let’s face it –
mine and the kids). I feel guilty for getting angry at how this has all
changed my life. I feel guilty. And that’s okay, because as a woman and
a mom, I am very familiar with this feeling. It’s all the other crap
feelings that I can’t quite get my arms around.<br />
<br />
My husband had been having headaches. We didn’t think anything of it.
Sometimes he felt dizzy or unbalanced. We self-diagnosed that he had a
sinus infection. Our doctor agreed and put him on antibiotics. Some days
he would come home from work and go to bed. I got angry. I didn’t get
to go to bed when I had a headache. Buck up buddy! (I, of course, did
not say this and instead suffered in silence and let it stew.) The
Thursday we found out started like any other day. We had a long to-do
list that included packing for my husband’s high school reunion that
weekend, football practice and a follow-up doctor’s appointment because
the meds she put him on weren’t working (cause dah, he did not have a
sinus infection). The doctor’s appointment led to an MRI scheduled for
9:30 pm that night. We were still planning on going to the reunion, so
sure the MRI would show nothing. And then the phone rang at 11:15 pm, 5
minutes after we got home. And life as we knew it would never be the
same.<br />
<br />
In less than a week, we would be in and out of the hospital twice (two
different hospitals) including a four hour brain surgery. (Yup, they
drilled two holes in my husband’s skull and then used a jigsaw.) We
would learn things about the brain and tumors we never hoped to know. I
would have to buzz my husband’s hair since the haircut the surgeons left
him with was a bad reverse Mohawk. I found a whole new use for
reminders on my phone, to tell us when he needed his medicine. Our
Facebook pages lit up with wishes from people we hadn’t talked to in 10
years and even from people we didn’t know. Family came to visit and help
with the kids. Friends stopped by to say hello and bring food (wishing
that part didn’t end ). It was a crazy, whirlwind of activity which left
little time to think about the hard truth of the situation. And then
all the motion stopped and what was left was real life. Because no
matter how much you wish it would, life does not stop for your husband’s
brain tumor. Life goes on.<br />
<br />
The hardest part of all this has been trying to continue on with our
lives. We have four boys ages 4 to 14 and they are very active. We have
football and sleepovers and back to school shopping. And of course, they
actually want to eat from time to time which involves grocery shopping
and cooking. The kids have been trying to be good, but they are kids and
there are still fights. There is laundry and cleaning and doctor’s
appointments. And all of this must go on while my husband still has a
tumor on the other side of his brain which can’t be operated on. I am
overwhelmed to say the least and when it gets too much to handle, I feel
guilty about that too because my poor husband is the one actually going
through all of this. He is my best friend and I share everything it
him, but I do not want to add to his burden by telling him how hard this
is on me. He is starting to get out and about more because I think
sitting in the recliner all day is driving him nuts. And so he is going
to play golf. And I feel guilty because I am angry that he gets to play
golf while I work, clean the house (sometimes), cart the kids everywhere
and remember all the doctor’s appointments. Have fun honey, ahhhhhhhhh!<br />
<br />
What I have come to understand is that the trauma of the diagnosis and
even the surgery was hard, but finding the strength to go on with life
is even harder. I know that people go through their own personal battles
every day and I applaud them for all their hard work. If anyone has any
secrets to not losing their shit along the way, I am all ears.<br />
<br />
May the force be with you, I am certainly hoping it is on our side.Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-72632881955864952242012-09-07T12:49:00.001-04:002012-09-07T12:49:34.330-04:00Why Men Should Always Listen to Their WivesHere is my public service announcement for the day...<br />
<br />
Men, please listen to your wives when they tell you how to do something.<br />
<br />
Why? <br />
<br />
Because I am not telling you how to do it (load the dishwasher, do the laundry, clean the bathroom, put the kids to bed...) because my way is the right. I PROMISE! I am telling you how to do it because I have done it 367 times the wrong way myself and finally figured out the best way to do it on the 368th time. Let's not reinvent the wheel here. Please take advantage of my many failures and believe me when I say that this is the right way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMR9kFiYOtahNvnYReyAFxRHsCT2xIZ0NL_QOhDbiKAo1IfhaSVNPqdVSfGK_b-jeHvvLAYXuYEE2UVpO-6qbN16gkA-tCVhXJYeDEOdHi0OlnDAOgJlIFbAPxEcrNoyH0nQA2bp_7TKpC/s1600/dishwasher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMR9kFiYOtahNvnYReyAFxRHsCT2xIZ0NL_QOhDbiKAo1IfhaSVNPqdVSfGK_b-jeHvvLAYXuYEE2UVpO-6qbN16gkA-tCVhXJYeDEOdHi0OlnDAOgJlIFbAPxEcrNoyH0nQA2bp_7TKpC/s1600/dishwasher.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Yup, that was how I did it time number 175. I know it really seems like it would be the best way, but if you would like we can discuss why it didn't work for the next 30 minutes or you can do it the right way!<br />
<br />
Not to mention that if you do it that way (ugh, trust me that was time 203), I will just have to re-do it and then I will be angry because the help you offered me actually took me longer than had I done it myself the first time. I will then proceed to be quietly angry for the rest of day and make snide comments under my breath for hours. <br />
<br />
So let's review. Women are not perfect, far from it. We fail like 99% of the time. Lucky for us, we get to do these wonderful household chores like a million times a day and have had the luxury of being able to perfect them. If you do them like once a week, please do it the right way to save everyone (including yourself) time, energy and fights with your wife.<br />
<br />
Hope this helps ladies! Happy Friday! <br />
<br />
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-88698850899558117822012-09-06T06:58:00.001-04:002012-09-06T06:58:35.402-04:00Ten Things I wish my children knew...(repost)Parenting is hard stuff. Now if you are a parent, you just said AMEN
SISTER! and if you are a child, you just rolled your eyes at me. As I
sit here writing this, I really wish that our kids knew just how hard it
was because maybe then they would cut us some slack. My husband and I
were lucky enough to take a 5 day trip to warm tropical places without
kids recently and it sure did put things in perspective. I am pretty
sure that we didn't fight once, not a single negative thought entered my
head during the entire week. Being among adults for that long was like
being in heaven. No one talked back to us, no one was rude or
condescending and no one expected me to pick up after them. Then we came
home and reality hit me like a slap in the face. Life is hard. Being a
parent is hard. And doing what you know is right is hard, especially
when it makes your children unhappy. Let's face it, as parents we want
nothing more than for our children to be happy all the time, but that
just isn't possible and its hard to be the reason they are upset. So for
all you kids out there, here are ten things that your parents wish you
knew and understood cause it would make the next 10+ years so much
easier for everyone...<br />
<br />
<b>10. Being a parent is hard work, really, really hard work.</b>
From the moment you are born, until the day you die we worry about you
and feel responsible for you even when you are grown up. It is a job
that takes every minute of every day and creeps into every thought. And
there is very little thanks given until you are old enough to understand
the sacrifices we have made for you. But we wouldn't trade it for
anything.<br />
<br />
<b>9. We don't want to say no all the time. </b>I
know you find this one really hard to believe, but our lives would be
much easier if we could say yes all the time. But unfortunately, we
don't have the time, money or bad judgement to always say yes. If you
think No is hard to hear, you should know it is a million times harder
to say. We love you and we want you to be happy, but life just doesn't
work that way and no is a big part of life. Sorry...<br />
<br />
<b>8. We actually do know what you are going through. </b>While
it may seem to you that we are ancient, we still remember what it was
like to be your age and we definitely remember how hard it was. In fact,
most of us wouldn't go back no matter how much you paid us. And even as
adults, we hate homework just as much (if not more) than you do.
Growing up is hard and other kids can be mean. If we could, we would
shelter you from everything bad, but we can't. However, we are always
here for a hug (and we won't tell anyone). And every now and then you
might want to listen to our advice because we have already lived through
it (and no, it wasn't totally different when we were growing up).<br />
<br />
<b>7. We are on your side. </b>That
is the great thing about family, we are here for you no matter what and
we are always on your side even if doesn't feel like it. We will always
listen to you and try our best to help in anyway that we can. But we
can't help if you don't tell us what is wrong, so trust us a little - we
might surprise you. <br />
<br />
<b>6. The world is a cruel place and our job is to protect you. </b>Unfortunately
there are bad people out there that do bad things (even good people do
bad things sometimes). Our job is to make sure they don't do bad things
to you. You may think we are being over protective or just plain
annoying, but in the end we are always worried about "what-ifs" and will
make our decisions based on keeping you safe. We know you think it
won't ever happen to you, but believe me <i>it is going to happen to someone</i>. We don't want that someone to be you. Please listen even half of the time, because it could honestly save your life some day. <br />
<br />
<b>5. Money does not grow on trees</b>.
I am sure you have heard this a million times, I know I did growing up.
(And yes, when you are a parent you will totally say all those annoying
things your parents said that you swore you would never say.) It's hard
at your age to understand the value of money or just how hard you have
to work to earn it. You will soon find out when you get your first job,
but until then please take our word for it that money is hard to come
by. Not only do we not make enough to begin with, but everything costs
money like the house you live in, the food you eat, the car that takes
you everywhere, even the water you shower in every day (yes, water is
not free). Again, if we could buy you everything you wanted we just
might (reference #9). <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>4. Sometimes it breaks our hearts to punish you.</b> I know you think
we love to do this, but honestly we don't. Taking away things you like
is no fun for us, remember - we really want you to be happy. Many times
after I punish my kids, I feel sad and guilty all day. And most times,
without you being occupied by computers, video games and friends, it
honestly makes life harder for your parents. But our job is to teach you
right and wrong and that you need to be held accountable for your own
actions. My advice - if you don't want to be punished for something,
then you should think twice about doing something you know you shouldn't
do (and you totally know you shouldn't be doing it so don't try to play
dumb - we are on to you).<br />
<br />
<b>3. If you want me to be nice to you, be nice to me.</b>
This should go without saying, but for some reason this is lost on most
people under the age of 22 (and even some adults). I don't like to
yell, really I don't. I would like nothing more than than to float from
day to day with a smile on my face happy as can be. However, I also
don't like when people are rude or mean to me, just like you don't like
it when I am rude or mean to you. So let's make a deal. I will smile and
be nice (and say please and thank you) if you can promise to do the
same for me. It may take some getting use to, but I think you might
actually find it is nice to get along. <br />
<br />
<b>2. You get more bees with honey.</b>
Okay, so the saying really goes "You catch more flies with honey than
vinegar", and means being
sweet-tempered will get you what you want sooner than being
sour-tempered. This is very similar to #3. What is boils down to is this
- if you want something from me, ask me nicely. I am much more likely
to say yes (even to something I should say no to) if you are nice and
polite and give me good (real) reasons as to why this is important to
you. Your presentation will actually set the tone for how the entire
exchange between us goes, so tread wisely...<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>1. We love you no matter what.</b> I am not sure there is anything
you can do that would make me stop loving you. (That is not an
invitation to try however.) I know that you will make mistakes and do
stupid things as you grow up. That is what growing up is all about. But
please know that I will love you anyway and in spite of all that. My job
is to help you through the hard times and move past the mistakes and
kiss away your tears. We are in this crazy ride together so we might as
well hold hands as we fall. <br />
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-11933940435641761232012-04-01T10:37:00.002-04:002012-04-01T10:37:52.123-04:00My Top Ten Beauty Faves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzJHYoR_AXlOxxV5PPtkagfPg5M8NbcrX7YcAsL0PdaCv2JrNEYLDejUT13qzT6UugolfrOI8E281QPRJw9J4N_pEEE5mk-6OdSyIsKQwJyo9vFYIRUAPOXMevwfajXK9klwvGpM9UwFm/s1600/beauty1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzJHYoR_AXlOxxV5PPtkagfPg5M8NbcrX7YcAsL0PdaCv2JrNEYLDejUT13qzT6UugolfrOI8E281QPRJw9J4N_pEEE5mk-6OdSyIsKQwJyo9vFYIRUAPOXMevwfajXK9klwvGpM9UwFm/s400/beauty1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I have a beauty products problem, if you couldn't tell from the picture above. My problem is that I have way too much product. I typically use the same stuff day after day and yet I can't seem to let anything go. I am afraid to toss it because I know that the day after I do, I will suddenly need it and then have to go out to buy it all over again. I took this picture after a wonderful trip to Sephora where I brought home some great additions to my collection. Because I love organization and neatness way more than I love my products, I looked at my dresser and knew I had to take action. Letting go of what I didn't need, make me realize the things I loved the most and decided I should share. So here you go, my top ten favorite beauty products as of April 1, 2012:<br />
<br />
10. Divine Eyes by L'Occitane - a great light cream that has natural oils to reduce dark circles, puffiness and lines. I use it before bed and when I wake up. It's a bit pricey but totally worth it and a little goes a long way. It definitely reduces puffiness and I feel like it has tackled my "laugh lines" as well. I am a sucker for anything that uses natural oils...<br />
<br />
9. Herbal Blemish Stick by Burt's Bees - another natural solution, but a great one. This contains 10 effective herbal ingredients including Tea Tree and Juniper Oils. It has a roller to apply so there is no mess. And it works better than any other acne treatment I have used plus its not as harsh. <br />
<br />
8. Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm - Some people love Chapstick, but this is by far my favorite. Beeswax conditions skin, while antioxidant Vitamin E moisturizes. A
final hint of Peppermint Oil provides that one-of-a-kind refreshing
tingle. I love the tingle! Plus they make one with SPF. I have one in the car, next to my seat in the living room and in every bag I own. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
7. AmazingConcealer by AmazingCosmetics - This may be misleading at #7 but truly something I can't live without! My dark circles drive me crazy, making me look sick and tired, but this is my miracle. It is formulated to erase all skin imperfections: dark circles, broken capillaries, sun damage, blemishes, redness and more. What I love is that the coverage is great, it's waterproof and yet it still goes on creamy and smooth without caking. I have been using this for a long time, like 10 years and haven't tried anything new since.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
6. Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil - A lot of people love mineral make up and while I don't use the foundation, I love the Mineral Veil. It promises to minimize lines, absorb oils, and soften your complexion and give you a flawless finis. And I agree, plus it offers a nice brightness to your completion. And you can use it mid-day to freshen up. One of my faves! <br />
<br />
5. Ouidad Styling Mist - This is a great styling and finishing mist that smells like cinnamon. While the Ouidad line is designed for curly hair, anyone can use and love this spray. It is made with Jojoba Oil and Hydrolyzed Silk which leaves your hair shiny and healthy. You can use it when hair is wet to help hold as you blow dry and it also holds your finished style well but allows for movement, think the opposite of Aquanet. Love it!<br />
<br />
4. DevaCurl No-poo - This shampoo is sulfate free and has no dehydrating detergents so it won't dry out your hair. It is zero lather so it takes some getting use to but you hair will thank you. It also smells great. Again, this line is made for curly hair but they also offer one called DevaCare if you have straight locks. <br />
<br />
3. DiorShow Mascara - I have to admit that I have tried about 200 mascaras and this is by far my favorite. I am very particular about the brush - I want it full and soft. This offers a jumbo-sized brush (which was originally designed for fashion show
makeup artists to use on models) and is totally like a magic wand for lashes. It leaves lashes ultra thick, long, and curled. And as an added bonus, it has a great sent!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
2. Hemp and Olive Facial Cream from Pureply Paradise Natural Bath Products in Key West. - I found this great product while on vacation with my husband. All I needed to see was all natural and crafted on-site and I was sold. This face cream is heaven! It goes on very creamy and can seem a little heavy at first, but it does soak in and keeps your face hydrated all day or night. I have combination skin that used to get oily after a couple hours but I find that with this cream, it stays balanced all day. While I bought my first jar on site, I ordered my next batch on-line and it came with-in a couple days. Fantastic product and service.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Buy it here: http://www.purelyparadisesoaps.com/product.sc?productId=37&categoryId=12<br />
<br />
1. Olive Oil - Okay so not just Olive Oil but Caster oil, grapeseed oil and a ton of other oils you can use. I wrote a blog about it before, it's called the Oil-Cleansing Method and it has changed my skin. Even as an adult I have had acne and I have used everything! Most of what I used made my skin too dry and still didn't fix the problem. Every night when I wash my face, it feels like a mini facial and it a great finish to my day. It takes a bit to get used to it and it takes your skin a week or two to balance out, but if you stick with it, you will not be disappointed!<br />
<br />
What are your favorites? Comment to share!<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-5076221838794630332012-02-13T14:03:00.000-05:002012-02-13T14:03:29.753-05:00To All the Amazing Women I know on Valentine's DayValentine's Day is vastly over-rated. It is one of those holidays (as most are) that receives a lot of hype (mostly by retailers hoping to capitalize on guilt and peer pressure) and rarely lives up. Not because we don't try but because things rarely turn out as great as we anticipate. First of all, this year it's on a Tuesday night and who the hell has time on a Tuesday night for a conversation with our spouse let alone romance. And should we miraculously find a babysitter who isn't celebrating their own Valentine's Day, restaurants are booked for months and their menus are suddenly twice as much for the same food.<br />
<br />
This year I am not really into it and I am fine with that. I did run out today (yup, the day before when the shelves are picked over and mostly empty) to get a couple goodies for my hubby and the kids, but nothing too extravagant. The crazy thing is, although I don't really care that much about it, I still want to be remembered tomorrow as if somehow to prove my worth to myself. I mean I know how much I give and do for my family, but what I really want is for them to notice and tell me how completely indispensable I am to their lives. (As if that might happen any time in the next 18 years. I have the same wish each year on Mother's Day and my birthday by the way.)<br />
<br />
So this year, I wanted to spread the message to all the amazing women (and men) in my life who spend more time worrying and caring about their families than they do themselves. You are truly amazing. You are a fantastic wife and mother, friend, sister, aunt, and more. You are strong and resilient and at the same time loving and kind. You make the world a better place every day. And yes, all the small things you do every day that no one notices like laundry, grocery shopping, cleaning and cooking is what makes your family tick and you should be proud of it. You remember what each of your kids (and husband) will not eat, their favorite show, what upset them at school, why they are mad at whoever and yet still manage to get everyone where they need to be when and the birthday card to Aunt Sue. You are a Super Woman and don't ever forget it!<br />
<br />
So Happy Valentine's Day to you. I thought I would share the card I bought today for one of my friends, it about sums it up...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrDW1tue7acvmalhwgymyuAcc32FelmyqL-VnB90w4lT8E70_6CU7RBfyUHqUmdEmGZQw5JF1Gz0s74GnBgp3ZOaIy93LMC8nu6zTnibfm9wEtS4YyAOc39bXrmfhlIWWSalgnpfE2-fa/s1600/card1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrDW1tue7acvmalhwgymyuAcc32FelmyqL-VnB90w4lT8E70_6CU7RBfyUHqUmdEmGZQw5JF1Gz0s74GnBgp3ZOaIy93LMC8nu6zTnibfm9wEtS4YyAOc39bXrmfhlIWWSalgnpfE2-fa/s320/card1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid91JT0CDMLEghZvmURsbKM6KeNPzxS_O-5tZ0YyOsg6568AgaETMDXCdx3dBGZKqe7fGZq76eYFdstRST-E-3-zxkCa9NkzIeSHVwZClCNKN6kX2PNrLvUyFoTN02S5n8nfZaVual4hNa/s1600/card2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid91JT0CDMLEghZvmURsbKM6KeNPzxS_O-5tZ0YyOsg6568AgaETMDXCdx3dBGZKqe7fGZq76eYFdstRST-E-3-zxkCa9NkzIeSHVwZClCNKN6kX2PNrLvUyFoTN02S5n8nfZaVual4hNa/s320/card2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-19320402742919821032012-02-08T15:30:00.001-05:002012-02-08T15:30:21.452-05:00Being a Good Parent Sucks Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVIfEiw0p_XG1WIib0Z1-0WZpx2SLZMt25yZMc09aa87f33tdJzau0rDO3MSuQ6wfLMa9KqbOUFGuINNeULMsUd6TscYnBmA2WvowkzESx28PWS3nEbItk21lLTHA50mpjeO7PSYmSath/s1600/comic.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVIfEiw0p_XG1WIib0Z1-0WZpx2SLZMt25yZMc09aa87f33tdJzau0rDO3MSuQ6wfLMa9KqbOUFGuINNeULMsUd6TscYnBmA2WvowkzESx28PWS3nEbItk21lLTHA50mpjeO7PSYmSath/s320/comic.gif" width="244" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Things are looking much better today but I am still not sure what being a "good parent" entails. Not only did I let my son play in a last minute basketball game last night when he hadn't done his homework for the second night in a row, but I strongly encouraged it. And I am glad I did. It turned out to be a great game for him, pulled him out of his funk and he immediately did his homework when he got home from the game. At first glance I thought, wow - I am a terrible mom! I totally gave in and let him do something fun even though he refused to do his homework. But in the end it worked out and everyone is happier today because of it.<br />
<br />
I will say that my four year old is still a challenge but we have noticed that when we limit his electronics (tv, iPad, etc) he is actually a happier and nicer person. So with that being said, I am trying not to be so hard on myself and realizing that I can be a good parent and give in from time to time.<br />
<br />
I know the one thing I need to work on is teaching my kids to be more self-sufficient. Let's face it, sometimes it is way easier to do it ourselves than beg and plead for them to do it for themselves. Again, this is me just trying to get through the day. But I know that in the long-run this will be better for them and for me. Here is a great quote that I found today that I think will help me remember. Have a great day and happy parenting!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: small;"><em><strong>In
the final analysis it is not what you do for your children but what you
have taught them to do for themselves that will make them successful
human beings. ~ Ann Landers</strong></em></span><br />
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-71588349495574835672012-02-07T14:13:00.000-05:002012-02-07T14:13:03.258-05:00Being a Good Parent SucksLet's face it, being a parent is hard, but being a good parent (aka, doing the right thing as opposed to the easy thing) is almost always shitty. With my first son, life was pretty easy. There was only one of him and for the first four years it was only me (with a lot of help from my family). He was pretty well behaved, very smart and of course spoiled. I had no one to answer to as I was a single mom and I could make any decision I wanted about anything and no one could tell me I was doing it wrong (that I had to listen to anyway). I know I wasn't always as strict with him as I should have been, but he was a good kid and since I was working full time, I admit I took the easy way out a lot. (I look at pictures of me back then and think who cares, look at me all in shape, dressed nice and with my shit together.)<br />
<br />
Fast forward 11 years, a marriage, another baby and two step sons and I still tend to take the easy way out, which without also having my shit together is not so great. Who the hell has time to do anything else! Not only do I have someone to answer to now (aka my loving husband with whom I share all my decisions with), but we also have four boys ranging from 4 to 14 who all think they are the boss. Many days (between work, school, homework, 5 basketball practices and games, shuffling kids around, grocery shopping, meals and everything else) all I want to do is just get through the day - never mind make my life more difficult, which is what doing the right things usually offers me. I know that in the long run, being strict and firm will make my life easier, but getting there is shear hell and I am not sure I am strong enough to make that journey.<br />
<br />
First let me start by telling you that our 4 year old is amazing. He is cute and funny, super smart and a fantastic dancer. He also never sits still, and his two favorite things in life are TV and candy. Yup, bad mom here confessing that TV has been a great babysitter while trying to make dinner, do laundry or just keep the peace among siblings. And also recognizing that while candy might be a great bargaining chip or bribe, it probably isn't very high on our doctor's recommended list of foods for good behavior. Oh, and did I mention that he likes to swear? And I am not talking 4 year old made up swears, I am talking things that would be offensive if an adult said them to you. We are finally to the point of knowing that something needs to change, but changing it and not killing each other in the process is a huge challenge.<br />
<br />
We have been limiting his TV to about an hour or so a day (down from like 6), limiting the shows is watching to educational (think Super Why instead of Supah Ninjas) and trying to be better about his diet. I am pretty sure the results aren't that different than what a crack addict goes through when you take away his crack pipe. Seriously. Picture one of the cutest little boys you have ever seen (picture below to support this statement) turning into a demon child who will spit at you and say F**k You on a dime when you turn the TV off - how the hell is that making my life easier? Not to mention that his listening skills are that of a deaf mute. So when we finally have had enough and go to bring him where we told him to go (usually time out or to his room), he turns into Gumby and makes it impossible to do anything but drop him - to which he screams, "Daddy! Mommy just threw me on the ground!"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeScYeLiM-A3BxqPJoUJH0hOvnd79mI1edxXFYVMFL_441DvpoMbtmua2zizzrEf7zZNeKo97ETNSYQM4pqRW87dKLMfesNRj3kscM0hdzz8qqzMQ1Y9Xf098fNEgHqscpGbMjuy1ujD8F/s1600/vince.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeScYeLiM-A3BxqPJoUJH0hOvnd79mI1edxXFYVMFL_441DvpoMbtmua2zizzrEf7zZNeKo97ETNSYQM4pqRW87dKLMfesNRj3kscM0hdzz8qqzMQ1Y9Xf098fNEgHqscpGbMjuy1ujD8F/s320/vince.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As if that wasn't enough fun for one family, we have two tweens and a teenager. I am pretty sure that the only way they know how to communicate is to argue. Honestly, if you tell them that two plus two equals four, they give you ten ways that they can disprove that. And they will stick to that for hours if not days. The most frustrating thing is that they will do things they think they are doing to punish us which inevitably also punishes them. But god forbid you point that out! My husband and I have somehow gotten so stupid that nothing we say is correct. (Funny how if someone else says the same exact thing who isn't us, it is some how right.) Here again is where doing the right thing kicks you in the ass every time. At least with the four year old, he moves on quickly from a tantrum to loving you. With the teenagers, they hate you for days. They dig their heels in and won't budge. If only I was good at the silent treatment and just ignoring them. But no, every time I come up with something I think is witty to say, I open my big stupid mouth and keep everything going for like 3 more days.<br />
<br />
Last night was an argument over homework. Apparently my son was so angry that two of his grades weren't As, that he thought <i>not </i>doing his homework was some kind of protest. Hmmmm...so instead of working harder at getting the As he wants, he spend the night in his room (because no homework no TV, computer or even Kindle - yup, I would not even let him read!) and went to school today having not done his homework. Must have been an interesting conversation with his teachers today. And somehow I know this is my fault, cause in the end it always is.<br />
<br />
I never thought I would see the day when Monday would be my favorite day, but lately the workdays are so much better than the weekends. The other day I actually said out loud, "I am not looking to be a good Mom, I am just looking to survive." That about sums it up... <br />
<br />
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-38327268648209302532011-11-30T15:30:00.000-05:002011-11-30T15:42:58.412-05:00Saving Sanity, One iPhone at a TimeMy husband must think I am crazy because my goal in life is to be perfectly organized all the time with every part of my life. Notice I said, "my goal." I am not perfectly anything, not even a little bit. But they say a goal is the first step, next comes the plan and then the execution. The problem is that I feel like I am forever living in the planning and execution phase of organization, but I never actually get to where I want to be. Why even go for it in the first place? But I find that when I am short on time, which is always, when things are organized and I know just where to find something, it takes less time to get out the door and I feel much less stressed. I think most of us can agree that that is the case. The big, huge question now is how to get from here to there. So I thought I would share with you a couple of my secrets for trying to stay organized with almost anything and how to from execution to done, even on a really small scale. <br />
<br />
The most important thing to remember and realize is that you don't need to do everything all at once or find 7 hours to set aside to get something done. You can do almost anything for 15 minutes. I did not come to this realization on my own however, I am just not that enlightened. A couple years ago, I came across a website FlyLady.net. FLYing means Finally Loving Yourself and its a system to help you establish routines and build a basic weekly plan. While I don't FLY as much as I would like it, I definitely find the bedtime and morning rituals help me keep things in order and checked off my list. I have it set up for email reminders to keep me motivated. She says that you can do anything for 15 minutes and its so true. Set a timer and go, you will be surprised how much you can get done! My only issue was that I really wanted a Fly Lady App because I live and die by my iPhone but up until recently there wasn't one. Enter Cozi...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFhMrQztAa27B-LQOl60r-mAb67U7gEs5zh76xMyOb8yLpHamIq0lPbkx7Q1XD-B7-BBYbqYrh7dBZHvr6nUIkT84f5PhEVWDUr1OJJJYM_D-1AIhQgOMGuhCz_LvXg72KkKjgvxmIe89/s1600/cozi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFhMrQztAa27B-LQOl60r-mAb67U7gEs5zh76xMyOb8yLpHamIq0lPbkx7Q1XD-B7-BBYbqYrh7dBZHvr6nUIkT84f5PhEVWDUr1OJJJYM_D-1AIhQgOMGuhCz_LvXg72KkKjgvxmIe89/s1600/cozi.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now Cozi on it's own is fantastic. Cozi is a <b>free online organizer</b> that helps families manage crazy <b>schedules</b>, track <b>shopping lists</b> and <b>to do lists</b>, organize household <b>chores</b>, stay in communication and share memories—all in one place. You can find them at www.cozi.com. What I love about Cozi is that I can manage everything either online or from my iPhone app and so can my husband and kids (if they choose to). When you add something to your family calendar it is color coded by family member and you can choose to have a reminder texted or emailed to you (I love this feature because let's face it, we don't always remember to check our calendar) Recently, I was reminded just in time that it was picture day at my son's daycare and we were able to quickly change before heading out for the day. You can easily download school and sports teams calendars quickly to your Cozi calendar without having to retype everything. As long as its an iCal, it will work. I love this feature because it used to take me literally hours to do this for 3 different schools and three different sports teams per season. And since Flylady loves Cozi just as much, they got together and now I can have my cleaning lists stored in my Cozi account. Every week Flylady offers up a new Zone in your house to clean. Evey day she offers little tasks to do in that Zone to keep away the Chaos. I can now add those daily chores to my Cozi account and they show up on my calendar. Honestly, I don't do them most days cause I just have no time but at least they are there just in case.<br />
<br />
Most recently my parents both got iPhones and I took two seconds to download the Cozi App to their phones as well. Now, whenever they want to know when my son's next basketball game is (and where) or what I have planned for the week, all they have to do is open their Cozi App. <br />
<br />
As we are smack in the middle of the crazy holiday season, with time being a precious commodity, Cozi will hopefully help you organize things a little better and keep the family all on the same page. Just wanted to share something that this busy mom has found to be a life savor.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3p_jO0zr6Hz5UEwONQgeHTPIi9FObKPrUsmNEKtc1e9OehamceJfPlxcSkePfqFUTJ3FPyIgNBs2Yj8c_hBJE4BAI_0m_dBwxZX6ODkZi1Jeufs46bnjVHReXR6vLo8f76iVWfx5-oz7/s1600/calendar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3p_jO0zr6Hz5UEwONQgeHTPIi9FObKPrUsmNEKtc1e9OehamceJfPlxcSkePfqFUTJ3FPyIgNBs2Yj8c_hBJE4BAI_0m_dBwxZX6ODkZi1Jeufs46bnjVHReXR6vLo8f76iVWfx5-oz7/s320/calendar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
P.S. - I have also stopped trying to put up a dry erase calendar each month which takes forever to get just right. Now I print this month and next month from my Cozi account and post them in our family message center. It looks so much neater, everything fits and if things change I just print a new copy and switch them out. Love it!Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-2562032431219873982011-11-15T14:05:00.001-05:002012-09-06T06:55:10.263-04:00Ten Things I Wish My Children Could Understand (repost)Parenting is hard stuff. Now if you are a parent, you just said AMEN SISTER! and if you are a child, you just rolled your eyes at me. As I sit here writing this, I really wish that our kids knew just how hard it was because maybe then they would cut us some slack. My husband and I were lucky enough to take a 5 day trip to warm tropical places without kids recently and it sure did put things in perspective. I am pretty sure that we didn't fight once, not a single negative thought entered my head during the entire week. Being among adults for that long was like being in heaven. No one talked back to us, no one was rude or condescending and no one expected me to pick up after them. Then we came home and reality hit me like a slap in the face. Life is hard. Being a parent is hard. And doing what you know is right is hard, especially when it makes your children unhappy. Let's face it, as parents we want nothing more than for our children to be happy all the time, but that just isn't possible and its hard to be the reason they are upset. So for all you kids out there, here are ten things that your parents wish you knew and understood cause it would make the next 10+ years so much easier for everyone...<br />
<br />
<b>10. Being a parent is hard work, really, really hard work.</b> From the moment you are born, until the day you die we worry about you and feel responsible for you even when you are grown up. It is a job that takes every minute of every day and creeps into every thought. And there is very little thanks given until you are old enough to understand the sacrifices we have made for you. But we wouldn't trade it for anything.<br />
<br />
<b>9. We don't want to say no all the time. </b>I know you find this one really hard to believe, but our lives would be much easier if we could say yes all the time. But unfortunately, we don't have the time, money or bad judgement to always say yes. If you think No is hard to hear, you should know it is a million times harder to say. We love you and we want you to be happy, but life just doesn't work that way and no is a big part of life. Sorry...<br />
<br />
<b>8. We actually do know what you are going through. </b>While it may seem to you that we are ancient, we still remember what it was like to be your age and we definitely remember how hard it was. In fact, most of us wouldn't go back no matter how much you paid us. And even as adults, we hate homework just as much (if not more) than you do. Growing up is hard and other kids can be mean. If we could, we would shelter you from everything bad, but we can't. However, we are always here for a hug (and we won't tell anyone). And every now and then you might want to listen to our advice because we have already lived through it (and no, it wasn't totally different when we were growing up).<br />
<br />
<b>7. We are on your side. </b>That is the great thing about family, we are here for you no matter what and we are always on your side even if doesn't feel like it. We will always listen to you and try our best to help in anyway that we can. But we can't help if you don't tell us what is wrong, so trust us a little - we might surprise you. <br />
<br />
<b>6. The world is a cruel place and our job is to protect you. </b>Unfortunately there are bad people out there that do bad things (even good people do bad things sometimes). Our job is to make sure they don't do bad things to you. You may think we are being over protective or just plain annoying, but in the end we are always worried about "what-ifs" and will make our decisions based on keeping you safe. We know you think it won't ever happen to you, but believe me <i>it is going to happen to someone</i>. We don't want that someone to be you. Please listen even half of the time, because it could honestly save your life some day. <br />
<br />
<b>5. Money does not grow on trees</b>. I am sure you have heard this a million times, I know I did growing up. (And yes, when you are a parent you will totally say all those annoying things your parents said that you swore you would never say.) It's hard at your age to understand the value of money or just how hard you have to work to earn it. You will soon find out when you get your first job, but until then please take our word for it that money is hard to come by. Not only do we not make enough to begin with, but everything costs money like the house you live in, the food you eat, the car that takes you everywhere, even the water you shower in every day (yes, water is not free). Again, if we could buy you everything you wanted we just might (reference #9). <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>4. Sometimes it breaks our hearts to punish you.</b> I know you think we love to do this, but honestly we don't. Taking away things you like is no fun for us, remember - we really want you to be happy. Many times after I punish my kids, I feel sad and guilty all day. And most times, without you being occupied by computers, video games and friends, it honestly makes life harder for your parents. But our job is to teach you right and wrong and that you need to be held accountable for your own actions. My advice - if you don't want to be punished for something, then you should think twice about doing something you know you shouldn't do (and you totally know you shouldn't be doing it so don't try to play dumb - we are on to you).<br />
<br />
<b>3. If you want me to be nice to you, be nice to me.</b> This should go without saying, but for some reason this is lost on most people under the age of 22 (and even some adults). I don't like to yell, really I don't. I would like nothing more than than to float from day to day with a smile on my face happy as can be. However, I also don't like when people are rude or mean to me, just like you don't like it when I am rude or mean to you. So let's make a deal. I will smile and be nice (and say please and thank you) if you can promise to do the same for me. It may take some getting use to, but I think you might actually find it is nice to get along. <br />
<br />
<b>2. You get more bees with honey.</b> Okay, so the saying really goes "You catch more flies with honey than vinegar", and means being
sweet-tempered will get you what you want sooner than being
sour-tempered. This is very similar to #3. What is boils down to is this - if you want something from me, ask me nicely. I am much more likely to say yes (even to something I should say no to) if you are nice and polite and give me good (real) reasons as to why this is important to you. Your presentation will actually set the tone for how the entire exchange between us goes, so tread wisely...<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>1. We love you no matter what.</b> I am not sure there is anything you can do that would make me stop loving you. (That is not an invitation to try however.) I know that you will make mistakes and do stupid things as you grow up. That is what growing up is all about. But please know that I will love you anyway and in spite of all that. My job is to help you through the hard times and move past the mistakes and kiss away your tears. We are in this crazy ride together so we might as well hold hands as we fall. <br />
<br />Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2770620676973749508.post-91708550130075144122011-09-13T16:24:00.000-04:002011-09-13T16:24:41.943-04:00My Top 10 Favorite Inspirational Quotes for WomenFor some reason, I am feeling rather inspired on this glorious Tuesday so I thought I would share some words of encouragement and wisdom (of course a lot of the thoughts below are ads but hey, I am not picky about where I draw my inspiration from). I hope you feel beautiful and empowered even just a little!<br />
<br />
10. "My butt is big and round like the letter C and then thousand lunges have
made it rounder but not smaller. And that's just fine. It's a space
heater for my side of the bed. It's my ambassador. To those who walk
behind me, it's a border collie that herds skinny women away from the
best deals at clothing sales. My butt is big and that's just fine. And
those who might scorn it are invited to kiss it." - Nike<br />
<br />
9. "You don't stand in front of a mirror before a run and wonder what the
road will think of your outfit. you don't have to listen to its jokes
and pretend they're funny in order to run on it. It will not be easier
to run if you dress sexier. The road doesn't notice when you're not
wearing make up. It does not care how old you are. And you don't feel
uncomfortable if you make more money than it. The only thing the road
cares about is that you pay it a visit once in a while." - NIKE Goddess<br />
<br />
8. "All your life you are told the things you cannot do. All your life they
will say you're not good enough or strong enough or talented enough,
they'll say you're the wrong height or the wrong weight or the wrong
type to play this or be this or achieve this. THEY WILL TELL YOU NO, a
thousand times no until all the no's become meaningless. All your life
they will tell you no, quite firmly and very quickly. They will tell you
no. And YOU WILL TELL THEM YES." - Nike Unknown<br />
<br />
7. "A WOMAN IS OFTEN MEASURED by the things she cannot control. She is
measured by the way her body curves or doesn't curve, by where she is
flat or straight or round. She is measured by 36-24-26 and inches and
ages and numbers, by all the outside things that don't ever add up to
who she is on the inside. And so if a woman is to be measured, let her
be measured by the things she can control, by who she is and who she is
trying to become. Because every woman knows measurements are only
statistics and STATISTICS LIE." - Nike 1994<br />
<br />
6. "Too often we are scared. Scared of what we might not be able to do.
Scared of what people might think if we tried. We let our fears stand in
the way of our hopes. We say no when we want to say yes. We sit quietly
when we want to scream. And we shout with the others, when we should
keep our mouths shut. Why? After all,we do only go around once. There's
really no time to be afraid. So stop. Try something you've never tried.
Risk it. Enter a triathlon. Write a letter to the editor. Demand a
raise. Call winners at the toughest court. Throw away your television.
Bicycle across the United States. Try bobsledding. Try anything. Speak
out against the designated hitter. Travel to a country where you don't
speak the language. Patent something. You have nothing to lose and
everything everything everything to gain. JUST DO IT." - Nike 1992: Barry
Sanders<br />
<br />
5. <span class="body">"I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life's a bitch. You've got to go out and kick ass."</span>
Maya Angelou<br />
<span class="bodybold"> </span><br />
<span class="bodybold">4." </span>You are more powerful than you know; you are beautiful just as you are." - Melissa Etheridge<br />
<br />
3. "I always thought that people told you that you're beautiful--that this
was a title that was bestowed upon you, that it was other people's
responsibility to give you this title. And I'm sick of waiting, people! I
think that the world is pretty cruel to women in what it considers
beautiful and what it celebrates as beauty. And I think that it's time
to take this power into our own hands and to say, "You know what? I'm
beautiful. I just am. And that's my light. I'm just a beautiful woman." -Margaret Cho<br />
<br />
2. "I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out
of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at
my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best."
- Marilyn Monroe<br />
<br /> <br />
1." You have the power. You are the magic wand." - Laura Schlessinger<br />
<br /> <br />
<br /> Rebekahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852079918507433812noreply@blogger.com0