I Wanna Hold Your Hand

This afternoon Molly had a very hard time going down for her nap. I'm not sure what was going on, but normally my youngest daughter will go down for quiet time in her bed with no problem; today she kept crying and couldn't seem to calm herself. So I finally went in, scooped her up, and brought her into my room to nap with me. I hadn't planned to take a nap but was willing to lie down for a bit if it meant Molly got the rest she needed.

When we lay down, it took a few minutes for Molly to get comfortable. She wiggled and squirmed, tossed and turned. I finally decided to just lie still and close my eyes in hopes that Molly would get the idea. At first she missed the point completely - she was rubbing my eyebrows and poking my nose. But after a few minutes, I could tell she was going still. Not wanting to mess with a good thing, I continued to lie still with my eyes closed.

Then I felt a little hand on my own hand, which was lying on the bed between our faces. We fell asleep together just like that - hands held. It was such a gentle and tender touch. I savored those precious moments lying next to my sleeping toddler as we held hands. It is a memory I will not soon forget.

The Most Wonderful Time

I am a big believer in celebrating one holiday at a time. The Christmas decorations being out since Halloween has annoyed me to no end. All that being said, Thanksgiving is over... so this morning the Christmas tree went up in our house. This is one of my favorite things to do. I don't really know why, other than that it is the first bit of Christmas decorating I do each year so it's an indicator that the holiday season has officially begun. And this year did not disappoint. The girls were all great. They helped me hang the ornaments with great care. We listened to Christmas music and worked together to make our tree a masterpiece. By lunch we had a decorated Christmas tree and stockings hanging up. It is a small first step but a wonderful time spent getting this fun and festive season underway.

My older two posing for a picture

Jocelyn was very proud to hang ornaments herself

It took a little explaining for Molly to understand what the stockings were for...

my pretty girls under the decorated tree

A Day of Thanks

Today is Thanksgiving Day. Since I write about what I am thankful every day, I had wondered what I could write today that would be different. I thought it would be most appropriate to reflect back on my day and write about ALL the things, big and small, that I give thanks for today.

Today I am thankful for:

** A new day. I volunteered to drive our friends the Foleys to the airport this morning. And by this morning, I mean I was at their house at 5:40am. While it was not my first choice to be up and out of my warm bed that early in the morning, as I was driving home I realized I was witnessing a new day dawning. I had left the house in the dark, and as I was returning home it was becoming light outside. In the quiet of my car I took notice of the simple yet powerful gift of a new day. Each day is truly a gift that we often overlook or take advantage of. I was grateful to have the chance to savor the beginning of this blessing of a day.

** Tradition. As a kid my mom would watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade every year. And every year she would beg my siblings and I to watch with her. We would either pop in and out of the room or complain until we were given permission to leave. You'd better believe watching this parade has now become a must-do in my house. I turned on the television as soon as the parade began and drew all the family in to watch. The parade held everyone's interest for about an hour; then we were all in and out, making food, playing, and getting ready for the rest of our day. But the parade was always on. I love that my family is carrying on a tradition that I didn't necessarily appreciate as a child but that now connects me to my family across the miles that have separated us over the years.

** Excitement and support. One of the performing groups in the parade today was the band and dance team from James Madison University. One of the dance team members is our own former dance friend and babysitter Victoria. I had told the girls yesterday that she would be performing and hopefully we would see her. We ended up watching the performance twice - once live and then rewinding after we found Victoria so we could watch her the entire time. We were all excited to see her - Jocelyn could not stop jumping up and down and squealing, "VICTORIA!!!" and Ava kept saying, "This is SO awesome!" It was special to see this person who means so much to our entire family in such a special event; we could not have been any prouder of or happier for her.

** The magic of Santa. At the end of the parade when we saw Santa in his sleigh, Jocie shouted "SANTA!" To which Ava responded without missing a beat, "No, Jocie. That's not the real Santa. The real Santa is at miss Katy's house." After watching the parade, we all made a quick trip to the Carlsons' house to see Santa, who was indeed having Thanksgiving dinner with them again this year. My girls once again got a special personal audience with Santa. They listened to him read Twas the Night Before Christmas and told him what they hope to get from him for gifts. This is the second year we've been able to make this visit, and I am so grateful to our friends for letting us crash their Thanksgiving for a few minutes. I'm equally grateful to Santa for spending time with my girls on his day off. It means the world to them and will leave them with such special memories for the rest of their lives.

** Thanksgiving "family." Originally I had thought we were going to get to share Thanksgiving with my brother Kevin and his family, who moved to New York earlier this year. However, weather and schedules made this plan fall through. Fortunately our neighbors across the street were in a similar situation as us - far from family and not wanting to have a quiet Thanksgiving by themselves. So we combined forces and had a fantastic Thanksgiving. The meal was amazing (can you really go wrong with a traditional Thanksgiving spread?), but it was really the company that made the day great. The kids vanished and played peacefully the entire time. Matt, Andrea, Ben and I went back and forth between the kitchen and living room chatting and prepping for dinner. It was far from picture perfect - the turkey wouldn't cook fast enough, the rolls didn't stop rising, some of the food never even got cooked - but it was perfect for US. I couldn't have asked for a better Thanksgiving meal.

Having been awake for going on 16 hours now, I can say that I am one tired woman. But as I look back on today I am beyond humbled by all the blessings in my life. I live in a great house and always have more than enough to eat. I have a fantastic husband who makes me laugh, drives me crazy, and completes me in every way. I have three daughters who could not be more different and who I could not love any more. I sleep well at night because men and women are all over the world, sacrificing time with their own families, to protect my freedom. I have countless family and friends, near and far, who love and support me. Most importantly, I have a faith that drives and sustains me throughout each and every day. I have so very much to be thankful for, and I am glad I had the opportunity to really focus on each of these things during this Thanksgiving day.

Cuddles and Pictures

This morning I had my coffee friends over to the house for our weekly gathering. Both Jocelyn and Molly were out of school so it seemed easier to have coffee here at home rather than out somewhere - this way the girls could play or watch tv and leave the grown-ups be.

Well, in theory anyway. In actuality my children were constantly coming in and out of the kitchen to share stories, get snacks, and in general make sure no one forgot they were there. While Molly was, as always, sweet and polite, I was reminded of just how big Jocelyn's heart is. She constantly was coming in with pictures she had drawn for these specific ladies. She would explain just what she had drawn and who the picture was to go to. In between picture deliveries Jocie would just come into the kitchen and give one of my friends a hug, or climb into a lap and snuggle for five minutes. She is not just my cuddly child, but she is so open and giving of her love. She genuinely cares about those she interacts with. Not being an outwardly affectionate person, I love watching how easy it is for Jocelyn to physically share her love with those around her. It does not come naturally to me, but I am almost inspired by Jocelyn to make more of an effort to really SHOW people how I care about them. It is a gift I hope to one day emulate.

Rain, Rain, Maybe DON'T Go Away...

Today has been absolutely miserable weather-wise - while our official low temp was forecasted to be 39 degrees, in actuality we never got higher than 36. And it has been RAINING - not just sprinkling or drizzling, but raining hard enough that you have to rush from your car to a building to keep from soaking through.

All that being said, the rain and cold made for a great excuse to cozy up and have a very slow, relaxing afternoon and evening. There were no after-school activities, so once we picked up Ava we came home and turned on a movie. Everyone changed into comfortable clothes or pajamas and just lounged around. The girls got antsy once or twice but overall were perfectly content to veg out. I think this is the first time every member of our family has been busy enough that we are ALL looking forward to the Thanksgiving break. It may have been lousy weather outside, but spirits were high and fun was had inside our warm and cozy little home.

Evening Reading

After dinner the girls seemed a little more wound up than usual. I sent them upstairs a few minutes early to put their pajamas on. I went in to Molly's room to check in and found Jocelyn and Molly looking through books. Jocelyn asked if I could read a book to them. Ava was meanwhile on her way to sit and read on her own. Impromptu reading time? I was all about it. All five of us seemed to rotate rooms where books were being read - first Ben was sitting with Ava listening to her while I read Caps for Sale to Jocelyn and Molly; shortly afterward Ben and Jocelyn listened to me read How the Grinch Stole Christmas while Molly kept Ava company. I love reading so much and really savor nights like this when we are all enjoying some time together sharing the joy of a good story.

Molly-Momma Time

This afternoon we sort of divided to conquer - Ben took the older girls to a friend's house while Molly and I went to a birthday party. Being the youngest, there are plenty of times when Molly is with me one-on-one. I guess I take advantage of that or don't appreciate it most of the time, because today I seemed to take notice more than usual. We had so much fun together! She chatters to herself and keep herself entertained all on her own, but enjoys interacting with me every now and then. She is a quirky little girl, saying things much more mature than your typical almost-three-year-old. (Her most recent phrase is, "Seriously Mom..." when she has to ask for something more than once.) I had a really nice time with miss Molly today, and am grateful that I took the time to appreciate this special time with my youngest daughter.

Little Mommas

All of a sudden, Jocelyn and Molly have rediscovered their baby dolls. They spent most of the morning playing together, singing to their babies, feeding them, telling them to stop crying, and putting them to bed. What I enjoyed the most was the fact that somewhere along the line my youngest daughters have decided they LIKE each other. These two have been my oil and water, the two who cannot get along for more than an hour at a time. Today they settled their differences and had a great time together. I won't question it; rather, I'll enjoy it and hope it lasts.

Molly putting her babies to bed

Jocelyn carrying her baby on her back

Dress the Part

This morning Ava had her hair in five ponytails for her school's Crazy Hair Day. Molly came downstairs wearing a shirt of Jocelyn's, that didn't engulf her as badly as I had anticipated but still had sleeves a good 3 inches too long on each side. Jocelyn did not really want to get her hair done, and since we didn't really have anywhere to be I didn't fight her on the subject. This however resulted in her walking around all day looking like she had stuck her finger in a light socket. I love my children, and on days like today they provide just enough comic relief to keep me from flipping out at how ridiculous they really look.

Eat Your Veggies!!

I have often complained about how crazy-picky my children can be when it comes to food. Our friend Katy came over this evening with the great plan to oven-bake various vegetables to have with dinner to have my kids try these foods in a way they never had before.

It did not go nearly as well as anyone had hoped. Molly of course, being my health nut, ate every last bit of her veggies and had seconds. Ava to her credit tried a bit of it all and ate about 75% of what had been given to her. Jocelyn took bites so small I can't imagine she ever actually tasted anything and left the table not even having eaten half of what was given to her. To be honest, a part of me was glad that it's NOT just me my children won't eat for. I also looked at each child in her various state of willingness to eat her dinner and reminded myself that this picture will change over the years. Tastes change, and one day my children will eat what is put in front of them without whining or bargaining. Well, that is the hope I cling to, anyway!

Giving Thanks

This morning was Jocelyn and Molly's preschool Thanksgiving feast. The kids file in to the chapel, the church's pastor says a few words about the first Thanksgiving and Scripture, the children sing a few songs, and then we all go chow down on turkey sandwiches and other Thanksgiving-related goodies. It was Molly's first school performance, while Jocelyn is of course an old pro. The highlight for me, which of course I didn't get on film, was when the pastor was saying a prayer of thanksgiving, both my children (as well as many of the school children) were bowing their heads, hands folded and eyes closed. They were so genuine in their praying. There was a pureness and sweetness I cannot describe but will never forget. I am thankful for these girlies every day, but in a special way on this Thanksgiving Feast day.

Jocie singing at the feast

Molly singing (well, a little)

my pilgrim and Native American

Mommy's Helpers

This morning, as predicted, I was EXHAUSTED. I could tell it was nearing time to get up and simply had no motivation to do so. Around 7:15am or so, Ava came into my room. She just leaned down quietly and whispered in my ear, "Mom, is it okay if I make my own snack and lunch for today? That way you can sleep in a little." If I had been conscious enough I would have kissed her and told her she was my knight in shining armor for even offering. As it was, I nodded slightly and she took off for the kitchen. She did need help unscrewing the ranch dressing bottle and peanut butter jar but, seeing as how I could do that with my eyes shut, I didn't begrudge her the needed assistance. Did the extra 10 or 15 minutes of rest really make that much difference? Probably not. But man did it feel good just the same.

My bonus moment occurred this evening: Jocelyn came downstairs after dinner while I was finishing up the dishes and wiping down countertops. She looked at me and said, "Mom, is it okay if I clean the living room?" Doing my best not to laugh I replied, "Yes, Jocelyn. You don't ever have to ASK to help me clean." The room never did get totally picked up, but considering I hadn't requested anything of my children I took the extra helping hand I had received and was thankful for my sweet child's offer.

Concert Night

Tonight Ben and I went to see the American Authors play in DC. We met up with my friend from high school, Paul, his girlfriend Amanda, and another friend of theirs and all went together. We went because the drummer for American Authors is Matt Sanchez, another kid I knew back in the day. Matt and Paul were freshmen drumliners when I was a senior. These boys were some of my "babies" - boys who I loved and loved to look after. Tonight, after more years than I care to think about, I watched Matt play his heart out and ass off during an amazing show. It was a very weird but awesome experience. Before the performance began I was listening to these two girls next to me gushing over the band like the obsessed teens they were. I watched as these guys played and the entire crowd would throw their hands up in the air, jump up and down, and sing the band's lyrics back to them. The best part by far was watching this guy who I had thought the world of as a high school freshman having the absolute best time performing with his band. These guys are incredible - if you haven't checked them out you definitely should. After the show I got a picture with my two little drummers, who now seem to tower over me. We are definitely a long way off from high school, but I was so glad to get to reconnect with these boys. And even though it wasn't really a high school reunion-type thing, it was fun to get to introduce Ben to these guys and share a bit more of my past with him. The concert went way later than I had thought it would, and thanks to long metro and car rides it was after 12:30am by the time we came back home. I will probably pay for this tomorrow, but every second of tonight will be worth the dark circles and aching feet that are sure to come.

Another One-derful Party

This afternoon I had my second Thirty-One party experience, this time with my good friend Liz as my hostess. Overall the party went really well, although I am definitely still learning. At Katy's party I felt like I talked too much and didn't allow for enough group participation. This time I definitely could have talked a bit more, and because of this I spent much of my time saying, "Oh yeah, and another thing..." I still got sales and therefore was successful in that regard. The best part for me, however, was once again getting to connect with a few old friends who I haven't seen in a while. Tonight's gathering was mainly dance moms who I don't get to see anymore because either their daughters now dance at other studios or on different nights from my girls. It was great to be able to mix business with pleasure. So far I am definitely loving this new "job," and I very much look forward to many more partying experiences in the future.

Bedtime Story

Today was long. To be fair, it wasn't particularly horrible or traumatizing, but I was tired and grumpy and therefore the so-so day felt much worse than it was. We had been out this evening and got home around 7:40pm. To back track a bit, Ava is supposed to read 20 minutes each day to improve her literacy skills and promote a love of reading. Of course she had not read yet today. So I testily told the girls to put their pajamas on and that Ava had to read until it was time for bed. I put Molly's pjs on and went downstairs to get a bit of a breather.

A few minutes later, I hear Ava reading to her sisters. I'm not even sure which book she was reading, but she was telling the story very animatedly. I could tell by the lack of other noises that Jocelyn and Molly were captivated. Not wanting to break the spell of three quiet children, I sat in the living room until the book was finished. Then we continued bedtime as usual. I am glad first that my kids can handle when I have a lousy day - I feel bad when my crappy mood gets taken out on them. I'm also glad that they will have memories like tonight's to look back on: it's good to have those times with just the sisters.

Let's Duet!

Tonight Ava began learning a duet dance she will be competing and performing with her best dance friend, Riley. I got to see what they had learned after this first practice and... well, they have a lot of practicing ahead of them ;) But regardless of the rough edges this dance may have now, these two little girls could not have been more excited. They have been looking forward to this duet since last spring. I love seeing these little girls so excited, and can't wait to see this dance, and these girls, blossom and develop.

Super Sara

This morning my friend Sara met me in the commissary parking lot to talk. I had a rough time last night, and had really needed to lean on my friend for some counsel and support. She had other things to do this morning, but made time to sit and talk with me in my car for almost 30 minutes. She was my superhero today, providing me with friendship, perspective, and comic relief to help me lift out of my funk and get through the day. I am so unbelievably blessed to have her in my life. I try not to be too bitter that the military will take her from me in less than a year, but I know that no matter how far apart we are, this is a friendship that will last. It is one that I treasure, especially today.

Peek into the Past

Today, as many days, I was working on our family computer, then got to doing other tasks in the study. After the laptop idles for a while, it will start to go into sleep mode. As part of this, it plays a random slideshow of pictures that are stored on the hard drive. The timing before the computer monitor goes completely black leaves only enough time for 4 or 5 pictures to be seen, but each time I catch these few moments it makes my day. It got me thinking: we don't really ever take pictures of sad or bad times in our lives. All of the pictures I have taken, and therefore that appear on this random slideshow, are of moments that brought me joy then and brings me joy to look at now. Today's pictures ranged from Jocelyn as a one-year-old sitting in her Daddy's lap, to Molly opening up her Christmas presents last year, to who knows what else. I am grateful for the brief but precious reminders of all the good times I have been blessed to share with my wonderful family.

Light Reading

I have a few items that have taken up residence on my nightstand for almost a year now. Among them are two books - one a daily devotional prayer book, another The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything. For whatever reason a few days ago I decided that, after just gathering dust on my nightstand, I would pick both back up and start reading them again. I read the devotional in the morning and the other book before bed. In part, the routine has helped me start and finish my day in a better, more consistent place. In bigger part, reconnecting more actively with my faith has been a source of comfort, strength, and hope. It was an unplanned change of pace that I now look forward to at the beginning and end of each day.

Blessings All Day Long

Today was a full day; from beginning of the day to its end, there were blessings to be grateful for.

This morning, I was grateful for the blessing of my girls' schools starting late. Very often I complain that the girls don't start school until 9am. While this will likely be useful as they get older, these days the girls wake up at 7am. It doesn't take an hour and a half for them to get ready, so most of the time the TV gets turned on to keep everyone peaceful before we can head out the door. This morning, the television never was turned on. Instead, all three girls were busy coordinating a musical production full of song, dance, and overall silliness. It was nice to have all my children ready for their day and taking their extra time to play together - what a great way to start the day.

This afternoon, in honor of Veterans' Day Ben went to Ava's elementary school to speak to a fourth grade class about his experience in the military. When he came home he said it went well, and that the kids were especially impressed when he mentioned that one of his ships had participated in anti-piracy missions. After school, one of Ava's friend's big sisters, who was in the class Ben talked to, ran up to Ava and said, "Your dad is SOOO cool!!" It was fun to see Ava's reaction. She of course loves her Daddy, but someone else admiring her dad brought out a new sense of pride in Ava. It made the gratitude of Veterans' Day very personal for Ava.

Finally, this evening I took a big step in my new business endeavor and hosted my first Thirty-One party. The party was at our friend Katy's house, and went better than anything I had hoped for. The total amount of sales was double what my goal was for my first event. But most importantly, I felt like I succeeded. I was able to sell the product, answer people's questions, and make sure everyone had a positive and enjoyable time. I am on such a high from having done so well. I am blessed to have a wonderful woman like Katy volunteer to help me by hosting my first party at her house. I am blessed for the women from my Thirty-One team who have been coaching and encouraging me and answering my thousands of questions. Mostly I am blessed to have this opportunity to do something I seem to enjoy while making a little extra money in the process. It really was a fantastic day from start to finish.

Mister Darren

I have the best neighbors. I haven't said that in at least a month, so it's time for another neighborhood warm fuzzy. This morning we came home from church and my children came inside just long enough to change shoes before racing out to play. I had some things to do in the house so I worked inside, taking a peek out my windows every now and then to make sure everyone was doing okay. Shortly after my kids ran outside, our 6-year-old neighbor Zain and his dad Darren (Mister Darren to my kids) came out to play as well. Darren is a favorite on the street - he always goes out of his way to be silly and play with any kids who are around. My girls adore him and get a kick out of giving him a hard time. I could see Jocelyn and Molly wrapping around one of Darren's legs, chasing him up and down the street, and squealing in delight. I went outside after a bit to check on the girls. Molly was sitting on the curb pouting because Mister Darren "had to play football with Zain" and wouldn't give her his undivided attention. I told Molly she could play football too, and while she never did play ball with the boys she was back up laughing and playing in no time. I checked with Darren to make sure he was okay with my kids being outside without me, and he said it was no problem without a moment's hesitation. We are so blessed to have a street full of families who all get along and care about each other's kids as their own. My girls got a kick out of having some Mister Darren time - it was a very bright point to their day.

Dear Johnny...

It's Saturday, which of course means another football-watching day in the Seward house. I just finished watching what many are presuming was Johnny Manziel's last game played at Kyle Field. This morning I watched the commentators on College Gameday visibly laughing at the thought that anyone would even think for a second that Manziel would consider returning next year. My instinctual reaction was a painful grimace, followed by indignant anger. Why wouldn't he want to come back next year? Sure, he had a rough offseason (to put it mildly), but he's still got to give credit to A&M for supporting him in all of his success. I'm so tired of Aggieland only being good as a stepping stone. Players and coaches come in, find fast success, then leave after a year or two for something more "prestigious." Why can't we be prestigious enough?

Then I sat down and watched the game. Molly sat and watched most of the first half with me. As Johnny Manziel threw his first touchdown pass of the night, she looked at me, raised her hand for a high five, and said, "Touchdown, Mommy!!" I looked at her first in disbelief, then incredible pride. My two-and-a-half-year-old knows what a touchdown is, and over and over recognized them as we watched the game together.

Jocelyn came inside just as the second quarter began. I casually said, "Hey, Johnny and the Aggies are playing." I'm not sure why, but Jocelyn has become OBSESSED with Johnny Manziel throughout the season. Every time the Aggies are on, she says, "Is Johnny playing?? Johnny wears number 2. He is an Aggie, and the Aggies wear maroon and white. GO JOHNNY!!!" Not a bad mantra for my four-and-a-half-year-old.

I have been so sad and frustrated at the thought of Manziel, and possibly others, deserting my Aggies before their eligibility is up for the glory of playing on Sundays. But as I watched the game today my opinion slowly changed a bit. I was first blown back by the safety, brought about by the 12th Man blocking a punt attempt. A few minutes after the play the player's name was displayed on the screen. I immediately recognized the last name - turned out to be Sam Moeller, a kid from San Antonio whose aunt and uncle I knew from our church. They were some of the first Aggies I met after moving to Texas, and while they were far from obnoxious fans they would light up and talk A&M passionately at any given opportunity. To see their nephew make such a great play as the 12th Man, a walk on who gets to play on the special teams unit for a single game, I was reminded just how special Aggie football really is.

Fast forward to the end of the game, and I'm watching Johnny Manziel lifting his arms up and down to get the crowd cheering louder. I watched him smile and jump up and down with his teammates. I was shaking a little, knowing I was watching the end of an era. (Although Johnny is MORE than welcome to prove me wrong.) Tonight, I am thankful for Johnny Manziel. I am thankful that he revived Aggie football. College Gameday has come to A&M the last two seasons in a row: last year when we opened SEC play against Florida, and this year when we had Alabama come to Kyle Field. Previous to that, Gameday had come to A&M a total of two times in the history of the 20-year show. Manziel put us back on the map. By all accounts, we are now the go-to Texas university for football; the last time that could be said was... well, long before I became an Aggie fan.

That's not to say that I have always been happy with Johnny Manziel. I'll be the first to admit that while I would defend him wholeheartedly, I was really annoyed anytime he behaved in a way that went against (or even suggested he went against) the Aggie Code of Honor that I hold so dear. Again, to never have had a player so in the spotlight before, it was not pleasant to believe he was not representing our university well. But over the months I have realized two things: first, he is still a KID. Did he make mistakes? You bet. But show me a 20-something college guy who hasn't done a stupid thing or two - especially one thrust in the limelight overnight. Which brings me to my other realization: for all the things that Johnny has done, all the choices he has made, he has owned them. He doesn't apologize for being himself, nor does he go out of his way to please the masses. Regardless of whether you agree with the choices he has made, that sense of self has to be admired.

So thank you, Johnny. Thank you for breathing life back into Aggie football. Thank you for giving Aggies everywhere the belief that we can have a consistently successful program. Thank you for being yourself, and forcing many of us to adjust our mindset and accept and embrace you, faults and all. I would give just about anything to see you come back and play another year of Aggie football next year; but if that doesn't end up being the case I understand. And I wish you nothing but the best.

Spiritual Rejuvenation

This morning I went in to talk with our parish priest. In many ways the experience brought me back to my childhood. My mom worked as a youth minister in our parish when I was in middle school and high school. Because of this, I had a very unique and close experience with my church. It was perfectly normal for me to get out of school and head to the parish office, where I might run into and talk with one of the priests, the DRE, or any other parish employee. Some conversations were spiritually driven, but many were just typical how-have-you-been encounters. It was just the experience of being surrounded by positive, godly people that had a wonderful impact on my life. While I have never lost my strength in faith, I have never been as connected to my parish community as I was back then. Sitting and talking with my pastor for 30 minutes this morning was like a breath of familiar fresh air. Again, it wasn't that I had some monumental spiritual awakening or revelation. Rather, it was having a good conversation that was rooted in the faith that I hold so dear that I came away appreciating. I hope to make this a more frequent occurrence. I've never been one to loudly express and share my faith; yet it gives me great comfort to feel surrounded by God's love through others who share the beliefs I myself hold so dear.

Breakthrough

I apologize up front - this is going to be another vague post. Without going into much (really any) detail, I feel many revelations have been come to and much of what has been unclear has become more clear. I am grateful for progress, and for the hope that more progress will continue to be made.

Perfect Fall Day

Today the weather was absolutely perfect. It was chilly in the morning, but by midday we were in the 60s. The sun was shining, the air was cool but not cold. The leaves have gone from falling slowly to suddenly cascading down and covering the ground. It's supposed to be getting much colder in the next couple days, and at this point in the year who knows when we'll see this kind of mild weather again. We unfortunately couldn't enjoy the weather quite as much as we would have liked, as it was a dance day, but we savored every minute we were able to spend outside, trying to appreciate what may be the last mild - and for this Texan, perfect - fall day.

Babysitter Love

This afternoon I had to get a few cavities filled, so two of our "big girl" dance friends came over to watch the girls. One of them, Wendy, may be one of Jocelyn's favorite people in the world. I wish I had videotaped her reaction when I told her Wendy was coming - there are no words to adequately describe the squeals and jumping up and down in excitement. When Wendy walked in the door, Jocie just leapt into Wendy's arms and gave her the biggest, tightest hug she was able to. I love that my daughters have older girls they admire and enjoy spending time with. I equally appreciate just how much these older girls love my kids. I obviously think my kids are fantastic, but that doesn't mean I expect everyone to feel the same way. I hope these special relationships are ones we can hold onto at least a little as the girls get older.

True Friendship

This morning I was sitting at my computer doing some work while glancing out the window every now and then. At one point when I looked out across the street I saw Ava walking with her friend and our next door neighbor Adia. The two were walking with their arms around each other, laughing and conversing. I was struck at how comfortable and natural the two of them looked - I mean, how many 6- and 8-year-olds walk around with their arms around each other? They are such dear friends, and I am very grateful that Ava has a special relationship like this one in her life.

Fall Back... Beautifully

Last night we turned the clocks back. When Ava was little I would always make sure I knew at least a week ahead of when we would change the clocks so I could gradually move bedtime and ease into the adjustment. A few years and a few kids later, I never remember until just before bedtime that the time will change the next day. I went to bed last night having changed all the clocks, including the clock in the girls' room that lights up when it's time for them to get out of bed. While I set the clock the full hour back, I set the time they could get out of bed only 45 minutes back, so as not to ask too much of them the first morning.

Turns out, once again, I have the best kids in the world. Ava and Jocelyn woke up at 7am - the new 7am. Molly slept even later than that. There was no child awake at 5am. The transition could not have been more seamless; it was incredible. What an amazing way to start the day! Rested, happy, and adjusted to the new time, we all started the day off in a great place that set the tone for a terrific Sunday.

Molly the Singer

I think I've said this before, but just about every time Molly wakes up, be it first thing in the morning or after naptime, she starts singing to herself. This afternoon when I went to open her door so she could get up from her nap, she said, "Momma, you messed up my song!" I replied that I had only wanted to listen to her sing her song - would she sing it for me? Not only did she sing it, she began dancing and creating this very elaborate performance. I got my camera and recorded just a bit of it.

Of course, my computer is not being cooperative and allowing me to post the video this evening, but hopefully I'll have better luck tomorrow. She was quite the show and was so very proud of herself. It was an entertaining and enjoyable few minutes, without a doubt.

Halloween Hangover

It was clear within the first few minutes of waking up this morning that my goal for the day would be simple: do all I could to make sure my family and I avoided the dreaded holiday hangover, when everyone is sluggish and generally grumpy because a holiday is past and we must now return to normal life. I have to say we succeeded pretty well! Ava had the fun of a Pajama Day at school to look forward to:

My day was made bright with the arrival of my big pink box, full of supplies and goodies to kick-start my new Thirty-One venture.

Jocelyn and Molly struggled a bit more than the rest of us today. They were on a crazy roller coaster of emotions both on their own and when interacting with each other. Several times they were pushing each other's buttons like crazy. But I caught this moment of the two of them playing school and drawing on our easel together:

They were quiet, happy, and playing in close proximity - a rare event indeed. I'd say we all managed to handle our Halloween hangovers well and can now look forward to a fun and relaxing weekend.