Today has been one of those days. You know. The kind where I want to rewind and start again. For some reason, up to this point we haven’t had a lot of discipline issues with Noah; he’s generally a really sweet, well-behaved child. Who was nowhere to be found this morning. He was as squirrely as I’ve ever seen him and kept on flat-out disobeying me. He thinks bumping his head on purpose is hilarious (I’m going to destroy those Five Little Monkey Books) and every time I told him not to do it, he laughed and did it again right then and there. I think between 9 and 10:30 he spent more time in the corner than out of it. I even had to start revoking privileges…no dessert today, no froggy boots, no jumping in puddles, and I even packed up his grocery store temporarily. I feel like such a mean Mommy. 🙁 I blame his behavior on a combination of things: cold rainy weather, teething (those last two molars have been making all of our lives miserable), and sleepiness. Whatever the cause, it drove us both to tears and left me wishing I could have a re-do. But, now that he’s peacefully napping, I’ve had a bit of time to reflect and remember that even on the worst days, there are still reasons to smile. Some are small, some are big, but they’re all joy-bringers. So, here’s my “top ten” list of things I’m thankful for…even today.
Even on our worst day, a Starbucks “treat date” is a great time for Noah and Mama. This afternoon, his only treat was apple juice since he lost his dessert privileges, but we still managed to have some bonding time over books. And, I just heard via Facebook that in just a few weeks, they’re bringing back a coconut mocha frappucino!!! Double yum. I. Can’t. Wait.
2. April showers do bring flowers.
Despite the icky rain and drizzle, when I walked out of the house, I saw these gorgeous tulips blooming in my garden. So colorful and cheerful…a good reminder that there’s beauty everywhere.
3. Friends that feel like family.
Meet the New Exodus Bible Study. This is the most amazing, loving, funny, interesting, authentic group of people I’ve ever been a part of. They challenge me in ways I never imagined and it is an indescribable blessing to “do life together” with them. Tonight, we’re getting together to make fleece tie blankets for folks in a local nursing home, just because. (remember our $240 fabric bill?)
Those of you who know me know that I’m a sucker for jewelry…and purses and belts and shoes…
Anyway, on a day trip to Alexandria, VA a few years ago, we visited the Torpedo Factory Art Center, which is the neatest collection of individual artists’ studios with everything from paintings to sculpture to cool handmade jewelry like this. It’s original & totally fun. Today I’m wearing the earrings. Just because they make me smile. P.S. Dan, if you’re reading, I’d really really like this ring sometime…
5. My Sewing Machine
Last night, hubby commented to me that he doesn’t think there are too many people in my generation who know how to sew anymore. If true, that’s a sad reality. I love being able to sew because it gives me such freedom to create…curtains, clothing, pillows, blankets, and all kinds of things I’d rather make than buy. It might sound crazy, but I looove fabric. And I love making personal things, which I couldn’t do without the skills and this machine, both of which came from my mom…thanks, mom. I owe you one.
6. Yummy Smelly Stuff: Specifically Bath & Body Works’ new Apricot Vanilla
I was in the market for some new shower gel and ended up finding this scent, which I got in the body splash too. It’s the newest in their Summer Vanillas collection (I also like the Coconut, which is back from last year). It’s a great mix of fruity and vanilla-y, and it makes me feel a little like Spring, despite the rotten weather.
7. Crayola Mess-Free Color Wonder
Apparently, I’ve been living under a rock, because today was my first exposure to this stuff. We had lunch at Panera with my friend Susan, who despite the fact that we were celebrating her birthday brought a gift for Noah. This stuff is ah-MAZ-ing. Paint and markers that make beautiful, colorful pictures, but only on the special paper! You can get it on hands, clothes, the table…doesn’t matter, it doesn’t show up! But, put it on the paper, and voila, it’s art. 🙂 Noah’s in love. Me too. Thanks, “Aunt Susan!”
8. My dancing shoes
You can see they’re well-loved…
It’s hard to describe how I feel when I’m dancing. Free. Energized. Yet at peace. I think it’s mostly just a feeling that I’m doing exactly what I was made to do. Here are two of my favorite dance quotes:
“Dance is the only art in which we ourselves are the stuff of which it is made” – Ted Shawn
“It takes an athlete to dance, but an artist to be a dancer” – Shanna LeFleur
9. My forever dance partner
…and best friend and love. Even on my worst days, he loves me anyway. He came into my life when I was only 16, we spent four years as acquaintances, and then had our first “real” conversation when I was a sophomore in college. I walked away after that talk certain that I’d found “the one.” I went home that night and told my mom, “I know the man I’m going to marry.” And I was right. He’s a great father and a wonderful husband, and I’m so thankful that God brought us together. I love you, DL. More today than yesterday…but not as much as tomorrow!
10. A lesson well learned.
See Noah. See Thomas. See Noah putting Thomas in the corner. Apparently, Thomas bumped his head. On purpose. Which is exactly the cause of all our strife this morning. Somewhere along the way, some of it must have sunk in for the little guy because he re-enacted the scene with poor Thomas, cornered him, and told him something along the lines of, “Bad Thomas, don’t bump your head on purpose. You could hurt yourself.” Maybe, just maybe, today will be a success after all.
Well, what about you, friend? What brings you joy today? I’d love to know…maybe I can add it to my list next time there’s a rainy-whiny-punky day around here.
Thanks for stopping by SaVvy Decor and leaving a comment. What a cute blog you have. I love the top ten list. All of us mothers have these days and taking a moment to reflect on the wonderful things in our lives is a God sent. Good for you Miss Positive. 🙂
You are such a joy to me!!!! I’m glad you could find joy in your difficult day…You are such a great Mama. I’m sure Noah learned a lot today. I enjoyed our blanket making adventure…and I’m sure our creations will make their new owners very happy. Sunshine makes me happy, too…and hugs from you and Noah. 🙂
Hey there! Great blog you have here 🙂 I can’t believe you two dance! That’s so romantic and awesome. And your little boy is gorgeous! Thanks so much for stopping by and so glad I can follow you too now!
3. Friends that feel like family.
5. My Sewing Machine
7. Crayola Mess-Free Color Wonder
10. A lesson well learned.
I’ve gotta get some of that magic paint! We must’ve been under the same rock. 🙂
Thanks for stopping by SaVvy Decor and leaving a comment. What a cute blog you have. I love the top ten list. All of us mothers have these days and taking a moment to reflect on the wonderful things in our lives is a God sent. Good for you Miss Positive. 🙂
I can just see sweet Noah putting Thomas in the corner. YOU make me SMILE!
You are such a joy to me!!!! I’m glad you could find joy in your difficult day…You are such a great Mama. I’m sure Noah learned a lot today.
I enjoyed our blanket making adventure…and I’m sure our creations will make their new owners very happy.
Sunshine makes me happy, too…and hugs from you and Noah. 🙂
Hey there! Great blog you have here 🙂 I can’t believe you two dance! That’s so romantic and awesome. And your little boy is gorgeous! Thanks so much for stopping by and so glad I can follow you too now!