*80* Birthdays

80 birthdays add up to a whole lot of love; not to mention candles! My husband’s mom, a 3rd mother to me, just turned 80 and what a joyous celebration we had.

We gathered at her 1st son's home to commemorate the occasion. His wife, J, has made their house into a beautiful home – one that is inviting, warm and wrapped in the sweet securities of a loving abode.

D, my mom-in-love, certainly did enjoy the festivities. She loves a good stiff martini. She laughs when someone asks her if she’d like a mixed drink. She’d say, “What for?! Give it to me straight up!”

And that goes perfectly with her personality too. She’s a straight-up-kind-of-gal. I have never known her to embellish the truth, or make niceties to make one feel better. No, not D. She will only ever be exactly who she is: a genuine, honest spoken, rustic, country girl, who loves her family fiercely – just like a lioness. Her faith in God is that of a child. I have no doubt in my mind that this woman will see the kingdom of heaven as it was intended just for her.

I love this little lady with all of my heart. She has taught me that love can be unconditional, forgiving and true. All of her best qualities have passed on to my husband, and that’s probably why I fell in love, not only with him, but with his whole family. I have a tendency to be impatient, and at times, willful or dreamy, but, lucky for me, my hubby brings me back to reality and teaches me time after time how to live in the moment and to be grateful for our blessings. I only hope that I can live up to their standards with honor and grace.
Many more happy birthdays, D! :)

Tuesday

I had a fun Tuesday morning with my little friends, ‘P’ & ‘M’ (keeping their names anon). We danced to the Wiggles, played with toy trains, chatted and did some painting too. ‘P’ and I have a special bond. He was the 1st addition to my in-home childcare, Busy Bees’ Montessori Daycare, over 2 years ago. He was just toddling along when I first met him. Now, age 3, he’s a fire-fighting enthusiast, truck crazy, bundle of energy – the little engine that does! But when it comes time to paint, he’s as serious as Picasso himself; taking great care to make his art “just so.” I no longer run an in-home daycare program (that’s for another blog in and of itself). But I am fortunate enough to continue an ongoing friendship with these boys and their parents. Thank you ‘K’ & ‘J’ for your dear friendship & sincere love. Your boys are true joys.

make a date

Yesterday my husband and I went on a date! This is no small matter, I tell you. With all seriousness, we have not been on a date – alone, together – in God knows how long! Sadly, I can’t remember the last time. About the closest we’ve gotten to a date lately is if we get Chinese take-out on a Friday evening. “WooHoo,” I cheer!!! Ok; our big date was a matinee showing of the sci-fi blockbuster movie “AVATAR.” Incredible. Unbelievable. Fantastic. Heart-wrenching. Suspenseful. Thrilling. Heart-warming. Simply put – a masterpiece. I love a movie that takes me away to another realm; transports me; makes me laugh; makes me cry; makes me think. Avatar did all of this. The 3D effects were spectacular, as well. It really made the movie "come to life." Our big date was our Valentine’s Day gift to one another. It was a sweet treat. It made me realize, also, how important it is that we make time just for us every so often. To be a couple. To “court” one another. To have some bonding time. With little ones around 24/7, we tend to lose sight of the significance of our romantic life. Life with children is a terrific blessing, but 'K' and I must remember to nurture our marriage too. Our 13th wedding anniversary is fast approaching. Makes for a great reason to go on another date (she smiles widely). Now, to find a babysitter...

favorite mug

My favorite mug. My favorite coffee with a dash of cinnamon. A quiet morning moment to myself before the day begins. These are things in my day that I cherish and look forward to. Before the breakfast frenzy, stoking and replenishing of the woodstove, dressing, brushing, combing, tying shoelaces, and finally dashing out the door to drop Alanna at preschool or gymnastics. Before my mother-in-love calls with the latest happenings or to tell me about a recipe (which she is famous for!). Before the daily responsibilities of laundry, dishes, sweeping, budgeting, phone calls… the list goes on. My morning coffee is a treasured ritual of warmth and comfort. I take a moment to sip the warm liquid as my eyes take focus of my world; preparing to take it all on. Oh, how I love this brief moment in my day. Do I dare have 2 cups?!! Good day all!