Resolutions

So this is late in coming, but I did make some resolutions for this year.  I am not going to pretend I will be completely successful with these, as history has shown me that I never am.  However, I still like the idea of resolutions.  I think they allow me to reflect about the things I would like to do or change.  I don't think I need to do them only at the start of the year, but it always seems like a natural reset point.  This year, I have tried to keep it simple.  

Resolution #1: Communicate Better to Build Better Relationships

Somehow over time, and with the increase in technology, I have lost my love of communication.  I feel awkward having conversations with people I don't know.  Unsure of what to say since I don't have time to think of my responses for awhile like I do with technology.  I worry about what to say next, if I will sound stupid, and constantly worry that I am going to end up embarrassing myself.  I am jealous of my husband's ability to talk with anyone.  He genuinely enjoys it and is never worried or embarrassed about starting a conversation with a complete stranger. He teases me about being afraid to talk to people, but there is definitely some truth to that.  In society, we judge harshly and quickly, but I need to start realizing that more often than not, people are kind-hearted and aren't judging me like I think they are.

This fear wasn't always the case.  I used to love talking to people, on the phone and in person.  My parents will vouch for that as I was always going over my 15 minute phone time limit.  So, my plan this year is that I am going to answer my phone more (yes, I am one of those terrible people that won't answer when you call but will text you back awhile later).  I will reach out to those I have lost touch with.  I will try harder to have actual contact with those I do.  And I will work on building relationships with new people.  I will continue to challenge myself to start conversations with strangers.  I am also going to continue to be conscious of my cell phone use in the presence of others to avoid being this guy:

Resolution #2: Eat Real and Local Food

This is a tough one as I love junk food and I love a good deal (and we all know that processed food is cheap!).  What I don't love is how "food" is becoming less natural and more modified and chemical.  The more I read about food, the more disheartened I become.  Last year things began to change a little in our household and I would like to continue.  It will not be easy.  In fact, I think it is a lot of work.  It is hard to always make it to the farmers market, to read labels and decipher what is really in food, and to prep food yourself.  It is also expensive.

I am trying to switch slowly to see how it effects our budget.  For now, I buy as many organic fruits and veggies as I can afford and try to buy organic dairy.  I also try to buy locally produced food when possible. In exchange, I buy less junk in order to keep on budget.  It's a win win right now and hopefully it will continue.  Changing the meat we buy is next on my agenda.  I also remind myself that demand creates supply, so if I join the demand for better food, hopefully it will help create supply and bring down the cost for all.  

Resolution #3:  Be More Informed

This will be the hardest one for me. I feel that I have a lack of knowledge as to what happens in my own community.  I watch the news, but don't always pay attention to community/local elections or news.   To prevent this, I have decided to subscribe to our local newspaper.  My parents always knew what was going on in our town.  My dad was very vocal at town meetings.  I lack that.  And though it is unlikely I will become greatly more involved in the same manor as my parents, I still think I should make the effort to stay informed.

Hopefully I will have success with my resolutions this year since I have focused on just three important changes.  Do you have any resolutions this year?

Hello, Goodbye

Goodbye 2013

At the start of a new year, I always end up reflecting on all that has happened.  2013 was definitely a year filled with joy and struggles.  The year saw four of my friends get engaged, friends lose husbands, fathers, grandparents, friends.  There were multiple babies and pregnancies, college graduations, injury and illness of loved ones, the blessing of full-time jobs and raises, vacations and time with friends.  

In 2013, we went to two Packer games.  We watched fireworks on the beach.  We celebrated our third anniversary.  We camped in our camper by ourselves for the first time since we owned it.  We were blessed with a healthy pregnancy and the exciting future of becoming parents.  We prepared for the death of Andy's mom, only to be reminded that God is the one in control and He has decided to leave her with us for awhile (what a blessing and miracle that is!).  We grew a lot this year as a couple and as individuals.

This year I grieved for friends, some that I had drifted from, as they felt the extreme pain of loss to those closest to them.  I caught my first Large Mouth Bass.  I learned more about the food we eat and how scary it is to be ignorant about it.  I finally found peace this year with my father's passing, feeling a different kind of sadness when the anniversary came around.  I built new friendships.  I created new memories with old friends.  I got a Kitchen Aid mixer :) 

Hello 2014

2014 is a blank slate, stretched out ahead of us.  Some of us have huge milestones (both good and bad) coming up this year: weddings, babies, graduations, career changes, first holidays without loved ones.  But even with these events, surprises lay ahead of all of us.  I think that is why I love the new year so much, not because I am suddenly going to start working out everyday or learn a new skill, but because it is a natural starting point of all that life has to offer.  If I was reminded of one lesson this year, it is what a blessing time is.  It is never guaranteed.  It is never promised to us.  It is one of the greatest gifts we can ever receive.

May this year bless you with the gift of time.  

Happy New Year!

 

Then There Were Three...

I haven't written in awhile but I have a really good reason, Andy and I have been blessed with a new addition on the way!  We are expecting our first child at the end of June! Woohoo!  

It continues to amaze me that God's timing is always perfect.  We have wanted a baby for awhile now and at times have felt frustrated, but the joy this baby brings couldn't come at a more needed time.  With everything going on with Andy's mom, it has helped us keep the faith and remember that though life hands us difficult situations, it also gives us gifts that are awe inspiring.  

The pregnancy has been quit a journey so far.  I ended up in the emergency room at 6 weeks with a cyst on my ovary.  Turns out it is common for women to experience that but it didn't make it any less scary.  Andy happened to be out of town, getting the "cabin" ready for deer hunting when this happened, so I had to call my mom.  Though it was not how I had thought we would tell her about being a Grandma again, it was just how it turned out.  The positive part of having a cyst was that I had to have an ultra sound to make sure everything with the pregnancy was fine.  Even though it was early, I was able to see the baby and it's heart beat!  I can't describe how incrediable that experience was!  

The last six weeks have consisted of being tired and nauseous pretty much All. The. Time.  There does seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel though.  I am finally starting to feel better and even have a little more of an appetite.  Hopefully, this means the end of my so called morning sickness.  

We have also enjoyed telling our friends and family.  We told my nephews and niece at our annual Christmas cookie baking.  They had some interesting name suggestions for us!  Then our Christmas card had this photo:

And it has been great getting calls, emails, and texts the last few days from people expressing their congrats for us.  This past week, I told my students that I was pregnant.  They were SO excited and word quickly spread through the school after that!  They talk to me about the baby all the time, asking if it will be a boy or a girl, what we will name it, and just that they are excited.  

Needless to say, we are feeling extra blessed this Christmas.  Not only do we have the baby on the way, but Andy's mom has been doing so much better then expected.  The Dr.'s had said it would be a miracle if she made it to Christmas and we were given that miracle!  A huge thank you for all your support and prayers.  

We are wishing you a Very Merry Christmas from all three of us!  May your Christmas Season be as blessed as ours.  

A Place to Start

It always amazes me how fast time gets away from me.  I have been meaning to post for awhile, but the time just hasn't been there. Well, where should I start?

We just finished our first quarter of the school year and it is crazy to think it is November (which means I didn't post at all in October, yikes!). This weekend I will be curled up working on report cards.  Luckily Andy is getting the "cabin" ready for hunting so I won't feel guilty about working at home.  Our apartment is in dire need of a good cleaning due to the cold that has taken over my life this week.  Hopefully I will find a little time to clean this weekend as well.  

Two weeks ago, we did our final camping trip of the season with my mom and Dave. It was COLD!  Not only that, but the park had already turned off the water for the year, so we had pit toilets and hand water pumps.  Even with that it was a beautiful weekend.  We were able to enjoy the sound of the waves on the shore of Lake Michigan.  The air was crisp but the sun felt warm.  In the evenings we were blessed with visitors, Andy's Dad and Step-mom stopped by and so did my sister and her family.  It was calming and relaxing, which is what we needed after the weeks we had just had.  

Camping at Kohler-Andre State Park

The weekend before that, we also went to the Packer Game. It was so warm that I sat in the stands in just a t-shirt.  This was a big difference from the games we have attended before, which were always in January.  

Andy's Cousin, Andy, and me at Lambeau Field

Of course, life also has its challenges.  Andy's mom had been battling MDS or myelodysplastic syndromes  (the same disease Robin Roberts had).  A few weeks later, it progressed into Leukemia   She stayed in the hospital for a few weeks to undergo intense chemotherapy.  We spent many nights visiting her, which brought back a lot of memories of visiting my dad there. She is currently resting at home and now we play the waiting game.  The chemo destroyed her white blood cells and now she has to wait for them to come back.  She is pretty defenseless against disease  so I haven't been able to visit her at all (that same cold I have been fighting has kept me away).  Andy has gone a few times, and so has his sister, but have had to wear a mask.  Yesterday her white blood cells had finally increased by 1%!  A small victory, but definitely exciting to see any improvement! We continue to pray for her recovery and thank everyone for their support and prayers over the last couple months.   

So, I figured this month I would do 30 days of being thankful to help us focus on huge blessings we have.  I will post for the week though instead of posting everyday.  Hopefully that will help get me back on track :)   

"It always rains on tents." -Dave Berry

On the Merrimac Ferry

This past weekend, Andy and I celebrated acknowledged the anniversary of our engagement at Devil's Lake State Park.  (Andy says we only get to "celebrate" one anniversary so I wedding!)  We do this trip every year and it has become a tradition for us. The trip started when a friend of mine  decided to do the Devil's Triathlon.  The second year that Andy came along, he popped the question.  The two of us had gone hiking on the bluffs around the lake.  It was a beautiful, sunny day in September and I was completely caught by surprised. I remember every moment and love that he turned an ordinary day into an unforgettable memory. 

This year, we camped with old friends and a couple new friends.  It was nice to get some distance from our busy lives and be able to relax.  We even made the food simple so that it did not take away from enjoying the weekend.  Friday night we did a chili dump, which was perfect for the cool, crisp evening we had.  Saturday morning Andy and I had Campurritos which I prepped at home so all we had to do was warm them over the fire.  They were so easy and delicious.  Lunch consisted on items made in pudgy pie irons and included anything from Rubens to pizza to grilled cheese, delicious!

Our big meal was on Saturday night, which was our first attempt at a fish boil.  (I use the term "our" loosely since I just provided the rye bread)The guys decided to do a burn off instead of skimming the gunk off the top.  This involves pouring kerosene on the fire and allowing the gunk to boil over into the fire.  The flames shot up MUCH higher than I had anticipated!  I wish I had a picture or video but it turns out that I am iPhone impaired and I only managed to get before and after the flames. :(. We had never had a fish boil and it was delicious!  Even Andy liked it and he is a tough critic when it comes to eating boiled foods.

This year we visited Parfrey's Glenn instead of hiking the bluffs.  It was a very different hike from the bluffs and we were lucky that the water level was low so we could make it all the way to the small waterfall.  There is something about being surrounded by such amazing beauty and incredible natural formations that really makes you stand in awe of what God has created.  It was a great reminder to slow down and remember that God is capable of amazing things.  He has the control and we just need the trust.

Late Saturday evening it started raining and continued through the night.   We woke up to a giant mud/water puddle covering most of our campsite and two of our friends sleeping in their car because water had pooled in their tent.  We decided it was best to just pack up and grab breakfast on the way home.  We ended up eating at the Broadway Diner in Baraboo.  If you are ever out that way, I would highly recommend it!  The food was amazing and reasonably priced!  

Broadway Joe at The Broadway Diner

All in all, it was just what we needed and I was home, showered, and in my warm pjs in time to watch the second half of the Packer game.  

A Few Back to School Ramblings

Wow! It has been 3 weeks since school started and it has been a whirlwind! I am loving my class, my coworkers, and the fact that it is starting to feel like fall.  Though to be honest, school has definitely been sucking up the majority of my free time.  Luckily, I get to take a relaxing break this weekend and spend some time with my hubby and some friends.  Needless to say, I CAN 'T WAIT!!

A few  things I have realized over the past couple of weeks:

1) I don't mind getting up early again, but it is an adjustment after the last 2 months.  Especially because I have such a tough time getting up.  It's not that I am not a morning person, it's that I am a don't-want-to-get-out-of-bed person. Once I am up I'm fine.  It's getting up that's the problem.  It is always a little bit of a shock to my system to have to get up each morning and go to work. I know, I know, that is what most non-teachers do all the time so I shouldn't be complaining :) 

2) I might be ready for back to school clothes and shoes, but my feet are not!  After being barefoot or in flip flops for the past 2 months, my feet are not loving my high heels.  They are taking longer to adjust then I am!  Luckily, no one seems to notice my change to sandals mid-way through the day.  

3) Eating well and eating clean is A LOT tougher when you have less time.  It is a struggle to avoid convince food when you have worked all day and still have errands to run and a home to clean.  The extra time it takes to plan and read labels seems to be an eternity when you spend all day answering the repeated questioning of 7 year olds.  

Overall, it has been great and I am excited for the year ahead.  I am always worn out the first couple of weeks and I know I will get in the groove (and my feet will get used to my work shoes)!  

August Stitch Fix

It's been two weeks since my August Stitch Fix, but we haven't had internet at home for a couple weeks (it was terribly inconvenient).  Since I only had my iPhone, I decided this post, and all other posts, could wait until we were back up and running.  So here is what I got in my August fix.  (Photos are courtesy of my fabulous husband).

Here is the first item:

Item #1 Jaclynn 3/4 Sleeve Button Up Cardigan  

I loved the color and style, but it was just a little too snug.  As you can see, it pulled at the buttons and I can't keep something that is ill fitting.  I was sad to send it back, especially since it was the least expensive item in the box at $38.00.

Item #2 Milan lace Print Back Pleat Top 
When I pulled this item out of the box, I wasn't even sure I was going to try it on.  However, part of doing this is to try items I wouldn't normally pick out myself.  I was surprised I liked it.  In the end, I kept it ($48).
 

Item #3 Kelie Mixed Material Button-Up Blouse
I liked the color of this blouse but was not a fan of the style or fabric.  It was longer in the back then the front, and it was $68, which I felt was high priced for what it was.  This went back.  

Item #4 Madeon Geo-Print Front Pleate Blouse
I loved this shirt.  It was by far my favorite thing in the box.  However, it was too tight in my upper arms, which is a problem I have often.  It was a little pricey at $68, but I loved the fabric, design, and style.  I was so sad to send this back. 

Item #5 Gold Chain Wrapped Layer Bracelet
This was a fun bracelet.  But I don't wear gold.  And I wouldn't pay $48 for it.


So here is what my total bill looked like:

In the end, I kept the lace print top for $48.  My amazing friend Jen signed up for Stitch Fix which gave me a $25 credit, so the shirt was only $23.  (Thanks Jen!)  I get my next fix in a couple weeks and can't wait to see what I get next. 

If you want to try Stitch Fix, (and I highly recommend you do) please click on the link below:

Stitch Fix

Books Worth A Look

If you are looking for something to read I have just the thing.  I just finished The Glass Castle.  It is a memoir of Jeanette Walls childhood that came highly recommended by a few coworkers and the librarian.  It definitely did not disappoint.  Her writing style is wonderful and it was a fast read.  Walls presents her story in four sections that are not broken up by chapters but small vignettes, so it was easy to read for 5 mins, put down, and pick back up.  I am impressed by her ability to overcome what life presented her with and her willingness to share it with her audience.  

For my teacher friends, I also read The Essential 55 by Ron Clark.  In his book he gives the 55 rules he uses with his students to help them become successful in school and life. I found that a lot of his rules would apply outside the classroom as well.  My top 5 rules were:

1. Make eye contact.  When someone is speaking, keep your eyes on him or her at all times.  If someone makes a comment, turn and face that person.
2. If you win or do well at something, do not brag.  If you lose, do not show anger.  Instead, say something like, "I really enjoyed the competition, and I look forward to playing you again," or "Good game," or don't say anything at all.  To show anger or sarcasm, such as "I wasn't playing hard anyway.  You really aren't that good," shows weakness.
3. Always say thank you when I give you something.  If you do not say it within three seconds after receiving the item, I will take it back.  There is no excuse for not showing appreciation.  
4. Surprise others by performing random acts of kindness.  Go out of your way to do something surprisingly kind and generous for someone at least once a month.  
5. Be positive and enjoy life.  Some things just aren't worth getting upset over.  Keep everything in perspective and focus on the good in your life.  

I liked both of these so much that up next are:
   

What have you read that is worth a look?  

Stitch Fix

I have to thank my awesome Sister-in-law for telling me about Stitch Fix. and directing me to That's What We Said to check it out.  I received my first "fix" a few weeks ago and I may never go shopping for clothes again!  Okay, maybe that is a bit of an exaggeration, but I think that this will definitely decrease the amount of clothes shopping that I will be doing for myself.  

You start by completing your style profile at their website.  They have you answer some questions about size and style and then rate some photos of various clothes.  Then a personal shopper picks out 5 items that they think you will like and mails them to you.  You have 3 days to decide what you will keep and what you will send back (they included a prepaid envelope for easy returns).  You pay a $20 styling fee that is applied toward any items that you keep, and if you keep all 5 items you get 25% off.  I was a bit skeptical to try this out but figured I had nothing to lose.

When my box arrived I couldn't wait to see what was chosen for me.  I was amazed with how well the stylist did picking items for me.  Even my husband said that it was impressive how perfect the sizes and styles were.  My box contained two dresses and three shirts.  I wish I would have taken pictures of all the items, but I ran out of time before I had to send them back, maybe on my next fix.  I ended up keeping the following  two items and sending the other items back. (I love that they include a style card with each item)

The yellow dress is one of my favorite things, and is definitely not something that I would have picked out for myself.  I am excited to see what they will send me next!

Click here to try it out! 
Stitch Fix
(Please use the link because then I get $25 off my Fix)

Sports Injury

This week my husband turned to me and said, "Did you know that your index finger is a very important finger?"  Why this revalation, you ask.  While, when Andy was playing softball last week he fielded a ground ball and the ball bounced out of the glove and hit his finger and then his chest.  He come home with his finger swollen to twice its normal and the swelling didn't seem to be going down. 

It only took me two days to convince him (which means it must have REALLY been bothering him) that it was most likely not just a bad sprain and he needed to go to the Dr.  He finally went on Friday and it turns out he broke his index finger straight through the tip, not across, but through! 

There is not much they will do for a broken finger so he has to keep it in a splint for 4-6 weeks and then see an orthopedic.  If he wouldn't have gone in, his finger would have healed with the tip of his finger in a permanent downward position.  That would mean he would have two "funky fingers".  Hopefully it will be a fast recovery for him since it slows him down at work and with his side-jobs.  

                                                                                                                                                                                                                

One Weekend:Topped with Whip Cream

We have had very few weekends this summer (if any) that were not full of activities.  This weekend was no exception.  On Saturday night we went to the Hartland Street Dance to listen to The Boogie Men with some good friends.  Right as we were heading down it started raining and I thought our evening might come to a fast end.  But the rain subsided and we were able to enjoy the rest of our evening.  It was fun running into our friends and acquaintances.  And nothing beats being outside on, what turned out to be, a lovely summer evening.  

Andy and Izzy

On Sunday, Andy and I were able to go out for a relaxing breakfast at Tommy & Di's Rustic Inn.  As always, the food was DELICIOUS and it was a nice start to another beautiful day. We made sure to squeeze in some time with Andy's family to celebrate his uncle's 50th birthday. Great food was in abundance, conversations were plentiful, and there was chocolate cake to top it all off.  One thing I have learned in the last five years is that it is never boring when we are around Andy's family.  Yesterday was no exception.  The day wouldn't have been complete without some whip cream on Andy's head. Luckily Hunter and Marvin were around to help clean it up!

Hunter enjoying some whip cream!

I am trying not to think about the fact that August is just around the corner and that school will be starting in just a few weeks.  We still have a few jam packed weekends before I am officially back to work.  For right now, I am trying to just live in the moment, which for a planner like me, is no easy task! 

TGE

This past weekend I spent four hilarious, responsibility-free days with 4 of my favorite girls.  It was our annual Great Escape and I look forward to it every year.  Before I fill you in on our awesome weekend, let me give you a little background on The Great Escape.    

History of The Great Escape
We started The Great Escape (TGE) in 2011 after I read a magazine article about a group of women who promised to get together once a year no matter where they were in their lives.  When I read the article, I just KNEW it was something my college girlfriends and I needed to do.  We had been friends for years, lived together, partied together, helped each other through break-ups, stood up in each others' weddings, basically been through the good and the bad together.  Our lives had already started to take us in different directions.  I was back in Milwaukee, Kelli was in Iowa, but it was more than just physical proximity.  We were getting married, having babies, changing jobs, etc.  We were moving down life's path and I didn't want us to get separated.  I sent an email explaining my plan and they all agreed.  

TGE 2011 - Lodi, WI

How It Works

Here's how it works:  each year, one person in the group is designated as "The Planner", that responsibility rotates until everyone has had a turn, and then it starts over.  The entire group settles on a per person budget and a long, four day weekend that works for everyone.  Then "The Planner" is left to decide and arrange the rest - where we go, where we stay, what we do, and what we eat- which has to be completely covered by the budget.  The "Non-planners" stay in the dark until a few days before the trip and the secret location is revealed.  We have the planner send the location, directions, menu, and a CD of songs by mail to each of us. Also, we usually have a theme that leads to a small gift (flip-flops, sunglasses, etc.) that we receive on the trip.  This then becomes a yearly get together.  It works for everyone, no matter what stage of life you are in.  Married, pregnant, single, going to school, working, etc, we could all make this get together a priority to give us time to reconnect and strengthen our friendship with one another. 

TGE 2012 - New Lisbon, WI

TGE 2013

This year we rented a house in Galena, IL.  With-in 15 minutes of arriving, I was laughing so hard that tears were forming in the corner of my eyes.  I instantly remembered why we had all become friends in the first place and why we make time to do this each year.  The rest of the weekend was filled with laughter, food, wine, and relaxation.  After arriving on Thursday, we claimed bedrooms and then took our annual photo. Dinner was prepared, wine was opened, and the talking, dancing, and laughing was non-stop.

Friday was filled with some time by the pool and then shopping in downtown Galena.  There were so many cute shops, but we loved Poopsies and The Galena Canning Company.  We were pretty tired out after a long day of sun, so we had a low key evening watching Pitch Perfect (which surprisingly Sara and I had still not seen...acacuse me!) 

Saturday was more time by the pool and then some rowdy game playing.  I think that may be my favorite part of our girls weekends because it usually leads to some very funny stories.  On Sunday we packed up and headed home, which was, as always, bittersweet.  These girls are defiantly like family to me and it is always hard to leave when the weekend is over.  I am glad that we put aside this time for each other since it is usually the only time that ALL of us are together throughout the year.  If you don't do something like this with your girlfriends, I recommend you start!

TGE 2013 - Galena, IL

  

A Little Technology on Tuesday

Now that I am out of college, I often feel as though I am behind on the newest technology.  I have been trying to combat that issue by following some great bloggers. Today I thought I would share two "new" things that I am lovin' right now, and both are FREE!

I have had Instagram for over a year now and up until a month ago I had used it a grand total of 2 times.  How I went that long without utilizing this great app is beyond me!  I love the effects you can use to edit photos and their new 15 second video clips!  If you know me well, you know that I absolutely LOVE photos!  I am that annoying person that always wants to take photos at parties and events or even just to capture the everyday moments.  Sometimes it drives A crazy but I can't stop!!!   I am so thankful for the photos we have to help us remember my dad that I feel it is important to create and share those photo memories of our life for those that we leave behind.  So it makes sense that I would love Instagram and the way you can photo-journal your life.   If you are not on Instagram yet, you are missing out!

                                                         

I follow a lot of blogs, so on a recomendation I switched over to Bloglovin'.  Let me tell you, it is AWESOME!  I love how easy it is for me to see the blogs I follow and I even found some new ones on their list of Top Blogs (which they sort by category).  They fade out the blog entries once you have read them, so it is easy to tell which ones are new.  And they send you a daily email of the blogs you follow.   I have found it visually pleasing, easy to navigate, and better than any of the other blog readers out there. 

So tell me, what programs and apps are you loving? 

The Big Three

I knew it had been awhile since I posted, but I didn't realize just how long until I saw that my last post was in October, yikes! Let's start with a couple of bigger events to get you caught up.

It has been 16 months since my foot surgery and my foot is almost fully healed.  I still have a pretty big scar but that is supposed to continue to fade.  The most surprising thing is that I am somewhat limited in the movement of my big toe.  It seems silly, and I never thought much about my toe movement, but I still have to flex my toe to help build strength.  To encourage even more movement, I am going to attempt to run my first 5K this year!  I have 8 weeks to train and I will need everyone's help to stay motivated.  

This past year, we have been focused on revamping our finances.  After some hesitation and many recommendations, we both read Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover.  I can't recommend it enough!!  It was eye opening to see how we REALLY spent our money.  And more importantly, it changed the way we view and use our money.  One thing that hit us hard was that we were the problem, not that we didn't make enough money or things were too expensive.  It was US and how we viewed and handled our money.  Some of the things we learned went against many of the money myths we have heard our whole lives, and it is hard to change your thinking overnight.  However, I know many people who have had success with his advice, so we took a chance.  We still haven't worked out all the kinks, but we have made considerable headway and I don't think we would have if we hadn't read the books.  Our credit card debt is down, we paid off the Malibu a few months early, and our savings is better than it has been in years.  Can't complain about that!

And I have saved the best for last.  In August, I will go from part-time second grade teacher to FULL-TIME second grade teacher!  I can't wait to be in my own classroom for the whole day!  I owe a big thanks to A for supporting my choice to leave my full-time job two years ago, and for believing in me and being my biggest cheerleader when times got tough.  It only took 6 years and some detours but I finally made it, and for that I am truly blessed.

Happily Ever After...

Last Week A and I celebrated our second wedding anniversary.  I spent some time reflecting on our marriage, and though it may not be a fairy tale ending, in many ways it is even better.  We are growing as a couple and learning how to make our life together.  Through this, I have already learned a few important marriage lessons and can only imagine what wisdom I will obtain over the years to come.  For now, I thought I would share the few reflections I have learned this last year.

Never give up on each other: I have a terrible tendency to want to run away from a fight.  When things get too intense, too personal, my instinct is "flight" not fight.  I want to get away from the "danger".  There have been times that I have "left" A, walked outside to get some air, gone to run an errand, tried to find some space in the midst of an argument   In all of those times, he has never given up on me.  He is always waiting when I return.  He seems to understand that I need some space from the fight, not from us, and he never gives up on me.

Choose what is truly important:  A and I have different visions of our life.  We see things differently, we like different things, and we prioritize differently.  In just the last few months, I have come to realize that we can disagree.  That there are some things worth the extra discussion, and some things that just aren't.  I am learning when to fight about  discuss things and when it will be okay if we are not on the same page.  I am also learning that I don't need to always be right (hopefully he doesn't read this!)

Don't take things too personally: This has probably been the toughest lesson for me.  When A says he doesn't like dinner or that the apartment is messy, I immediately get defensive.  I hear that he doesn't like the dinner I made, or that I am not cleaning good enough.  I am learning to let it go and that it is not about me.  He is entitled to have his opinion, just as I am entitled to mine.

Communication: This is an ongoing struggle for us.  At times we take each other for granted, forgetting to tell each other things that at the time don't seem important.   I think it's the small things that help keep us connected to the other person.  I am sure that at times A may not want to share something with me because I am so very opinionated,  but I am working on that too.  Together, we will work on finding a balance that works for us.

I am so blessed to be married to someone who loves and supports me through everything.  I am thankful everyday for A and can't wait to see what the next year brings!

Three for Thursday: Fall

I love that fall has fully arrived.  The air is brisk, the trees are a variety of colors, and I can wear a scarf everyday.  Everything seems crisp and fresh.  There are so many things I love about this season, but my top three are below.

1. The sun.  I love the contrast of the air temperature and the sun.  The sun seems more intense when you are surrounded by cool air.  In the summer months, that same sun feels oppressive and sweltering  but in the fall it is appreciated and welcome.  
2. Togetherness.  There is something about fall that seems to bring my friends and family together.  Bonfires, game nights, and holidays events   Not to mention, there is an excuse for A and I to cuddle more in order to stay warm in our cool (ok, cold) apartment.   
3. Fall Foods: There are far too many to name them all, but some of my favorites are apples, and anything made with them, salted caramel mochas, and chili.  

Making My Herb Garden

This spring, my mom and I decided to make herb gardens using stair stringers and flower boxes.  Armed with only a picture, we (mostly Mom) brainstormed, constructed and created a masterpiece!  This herb garden is perfect for our narrow balcony and takes up less space then my herbs did last year.  An added bonus is that the height makes it easier to pick the herbs.

Supplies:
22 - deck screws
3 - plastic planters
2 - stair stringers
Scrap Wood 2-pieces that are 31.5 inches long, and 2-pieces that are 16 inches long

We used our stir stringers the opposite way they were intended so that they were taller and narrower.  You could use them the other way if you wanted.

We drilled holes in the stair stringers that lined up with the holes in the bottom of the planter, but ended up drilling new holes in the planter because our screw heads were too small.

Then we screwed the planters to the stair stringers.

Next we screwed the 31.5 inch boards to the back of a stair stringers.

Then we screwed one board across the front of the stair stringers and the last board across the back to provide extra support.

Here is the final product!!  Since it is pressure treated wood, I will be waiting until next year to paint it.

I added some rocks, then dirt, and planted my herbs.  It worked out great on our small patio.

Homemade Laundry Soap

In my quest to save money and live a little simpler, I decided to try making my own laundry soap.  Even though it is just two of us, I typically do about 6 loads of laundry a week.  I found an easy recipe (which was a must) and mixed it up.   I made my first batch in mid-January and just ran out this week, that means the soap lasted close to 4 months! I was unsure if I would like it but have found that it cleans well and leaves clothes brighter, even when washing in cold water.  It doesn't have a strong scent, but you can use fabric softener or add a few drops of essential oil to each load.

Cost breakdown: I bought enough of everything to make 3 batches and it cost a total of $23.  Each batch costs me about $7.67 and lasts 15 weeks or about 90 loads of laundry!  That's 8.5 cents a load!

Supplies:

55 oz Arm and Hammer Washing Soda
4 lbs Arm and Hammer Baking Soda
76 oz Borax
3 lbs Oxi Clean
3 Fels Naptha Laundry Bar  

*I have been making smaller batches and keeping it in an empty, gallon ice-cream pail.  To make a smaller batch, you can use: 19 oz washing soda, 22 oz baking soda, 26 oz Borax, 19 oz Oxi Clean, and 1 Fels-Naptha bar.  

Step One:
Using a cheese grater, grate the Fels-Naptha bars.


Step Two:
Add all ingredients into a large bowl or bucket.



Step Three:
Stir everything together.







Step Four:
Store in an air tight container.

Use: I use the scoop that came with the Oxi Clean and use one scoop per load.  When I wash A's work clothes I add an extra scoop for a little extra cleaning power!

Help, I need Somebody,

Help, not just anybody,
Help, you know I need someone, help.

~ The Beatles 

Oh how the words of this song have ruled my life the last five weeks.  Yep, that is how long it has been since I have my bunioectomy.  Those of you that know me well, know that depending on others is not a strong suite for me.  Over the years, I have grown to be fiercely independent.  It is hard for me to allow people to do things for me.  Thoughts run through my head like "I can do it myself," "Do you think I can't do it," What if you don't do it my way," or worse, "What if you let me down."  I find it is just easier less anxiety inducing for me to do it on my own.

In the last five weeks, I have not had the luxury of doing things on my own.  My recovery has left me unable to do most things without assistance.  Crutches prevent me from being able to carry most things, including my morning cup of coffee.  I've been unable to help with the majority of household tasks, so I need to rely on A to do everything from dishes, to vacuuming, to laundry.  And I haven't been able to drive anywhere, but need to find rides or ask people to pick things up for me.  This last one has been the worst most challenging for me.  

There are things to be learned from this experience.  I have had to humble myself and ask for what I need.  I have learned that people are kind and giving, and will lend a hand in any way they can.  I have learned that no one can read my mind, especially not A, and that I need to just use my voice to communicate what I need, instead of getting frustrated.

Hopefully, my recovery is nearing it's end, and for a month or so I will be able to do things on my own again.  During that time, I will rejoice in the ability to drive places, bask in the warmth of doing my own laundry, and happily carry my morning coffee.  Then, once again, I will need to ask for "Help!"  Maybe it will be easier the second time around.

Foot Frustrations

I have had bunions my whole life.  Ok, so maybe not my WHOLE life, but as long as I can remember.  Most of the time I forget I have them, unless I want a really cute pair of shoes, or I bump one of them really hard.  Since not everyone is familiar with bunions, I will take a minute to explain.  One of the joints of my big toe is sliding out of place.  This causes the bone to create a "bump' on the outside of my foot.  If you were to look at an x-ray, my feet look like this:

 (Image from www.bestpodiatristnyc.com)

My right bunion has recently become red and irritated, so I called and scheduled an appointment with my podiatrist.  The last time I saw him was when I was in middle school.  I needed insoles made so I could run track without my feet being in tremendous pain.  Even back when I last saw him, I was told that surgery was in my future. 

Turns out that the future is now.  I am at a point where they are so severe that his recommendation is to have the surgery within six months.  If I wait, I would end up with arthritis in my feet at a young age and need to have prosthetic joints put in.  Since they are so severe, I will need to have surgery on each foot at a separate time.  My first surgery will be on April 2nd which will allow me to be off my feet for two weeks, as required. The rest of the recovery will take 6-8 weeks.  

It has been a frustrating couple of weeks.  Though this surgery is far from serious, it is hard to think about the inconveniences that will occur and I hate do not like having to rely on others, which I will have to do.  Finding a time that I could fit in both surgeries was difficult as well since I do not want to take off from work (since most of it would have to be unpaid) and waiting until the summer means working around my mission trip (missing it is not an option).  I am starting to find my peace with it, and know that in the long run I will reap the benefits.  It just...well, it just sucks!