December 28 – Achieve What’s the thing you most want to achieve next year? How do you imagine you’ll feel when you get it? Free? Happy? Complete? Blissful? Write that feeling down.
It really is no secret that I can't wait to expand our family. Brandon and I have always talked of having 3 or 4 kids, and maybe 2011 will bring us a brother or sister for Brayden. (No, I am not pregnant right now. This isn't some kind of weird code post where you think I am- I am not, I assure you!)
We figure that the best things that have happened to us have been in odd years- getting married in 2007, having Brayden in 2009- so maybe 2011 will be the lucky year. We will see.
I'm excited at the prospect of experiencing pregnancy again, but there are a couple things I am fearful of. For those of you that don't know, I was induced with preeclempsia with Brayden, labored for almost 24 hours, and then had to have an emergency C-section. As of now, I plan to have a scheduled C-section with the next one- but I am scared that I won't be awake like I was when Brayden was born.
More things I want to achieve this year:
Work out more
cut back on drinking pop
read more
write more
"be" more
Friday, December 31, 2010
#reverb- day 27
December 27 – Ordinary Joy: Our most profound joy is often experienced during ordinary moments. What was one of your most joyful ordinary moments this year?
One of my most joyful days was a day that Brayden and I just stayed home. We had nowhere to be, no errands to run, and an entire day together. We played, he helped me fold laundry, we picked up the toys in his room, played outside, and just immersed ourselves with each other. I was totally aware of how much of an influence I am on him, and I used it as a huge teaching day.
I soaked him up- every glance, every giggle, every smile, and every cry. I relished him when I rocked him to sleep that sunny afternoon, smelling the crook of his neck and letting his baby fine hair tickle my nose. I held him for a lot longer than I normally would at nap time just staring at him.
It was in that moment that I felt my heart explode with love and devotion for this little boy. And everyday, though not perfect days like that, I try to find one moment like that. It brings me back to that breezy, sunny day when all was right with the world.
One of my most joyful days was a day that Brayden and I just stayed home. We had nowhere to be, no errands to run, and an entire day together. We played, he helped me fold laundry, we picked up the toys in his room, played outside, and just immersed ourselves with each other. I was totally aware of how much of an influence I am on him, and I used it as a huge teaching day.
I soaked him up- every glance, every giggle, every smile, and every cry. I relished him when I rocked him to sleep that sunny afternoon, smelling the crook of his neck and letting his baby fine hair tickle my nose. I held him for a lot longer than I normally would at nap time just staring at him.
It was in that moment that I felt my heart explode with love and devotion for this little boy. And everyday, though not perfect days like that, I try to find one moment like that. It brings me back to that breezy, sunny day when all was right with the world.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
#reverb- day 26
December 26 – Soul Food: What did you eat this year that you will never forget? What went into your mouth & touched your soul?
I can't say enough about that steakhouse in Estes Park. It was incredible. Being on a date in a completely new place, with the most amazing food ever was so relaxing and fun for us.
Brandon's grandma's Dutch Apple pie. It is on my list of recipes to conquer.
Hosting Christmas Eve dinner in our home this year with my dad's family's traditional meal.
Sharing ALL of my food with Brayden because he wants to try whatever I have. :)
I can't say enough about that steakhouse in Estes Park. It was incredible. Being on a date in a completely new place, with the most amazing food ever was so relaxing and fun for us.
Brandon's grandma's Dutch Apple pie. It is on my list of recipes to conquer.
Hosting Christmas Eve dinner in our home this year with my dad's family's traditional meal.
Sharing ALL of my food with Brayden because he wants to try whatever I have. :)
Mr. Big Stuff
Within the last week, Brayden has really insisted on NOT sitting in the high chair. (Hopefully by the time this post goes up I will have the booster seat out of it's box!) When you ask him to get in his chair to sit at the table to eat or play, he pulls out one of the dining chairs instead. It's cute, but he isn't quite tall enough to sit there without the booster!
Last week, his gift from my friend Sheana arrived. It is a Leap Frog Writing Pad and he loves it! It is a little advanced for him now, but he really loves drawing on it and listening to the letter sounds. I am sure it won't be long until he figures the entire thing out!
PS WHEN did this child get SO BIG?
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
#reverb- day 25
December 25 – Photo – a present to yourself
Sift through all the photos of you from the past year. Choose one that best captures you; either who you are, or who you strive to be. Find the shot of you that is worth a thousand words. Share the image, who shot it, where, and what it best reveals about you.
This photo is from Brayden's first birthday. I look effortless, worry free and calm when in all actuality, I was a total mess the week leading up to his birthday. Brayden was sick the week before his birthday with a sinus infection and then an ear infection. It was one trip to the doctor after another, and he was terrible at his party. I had my hopes so high for his party and when they didn't pan out? I crashed. Hard.
This photo shows who I wished I was. The worry free, put together, beaming mother of a one year old. The outside emotion in this photo is what I am starting to feel now, 6 months later. The mother who instead of crying at every milestone, smiled and beamed with pride and joy. It's a start.
Holiday Recap
What a blessed Christmas we have this year. As I sit here on the morning after Christmas reliving the past couple days, I can truly say my family of 3 is blessed beyond measure. Brayden is playing on the floor with his new toys, the hubby is still asleep after being out until 3am plowing snow, and I am sitting here calmly, wondering how different the house will look after we take down all of the decorations!
Christmas Eve night was spent hosting my family. We always have chili, hot chicken sandwiches, and this year I made hot artichoke dip, veggie tray, meat and cheese tray, plus all of the cookies and candy we made recently! We ate and ate and ate some more, and it was delicious. This is the same meal that my dad always had Christmas Eve when he was growing up- so definitely a stone set tradition. We did gifts as well, and that did not go like I thought it would! Brayden got really excited when we started moving the gifts from the front porch into the living room but when it was time to open? He didn't really take any interest. We had to start unwrapping, show him what might be inside, and THEN he wanted to help. He was very patient as we untangled, snipped wires, etc to get the toys out.
Brandon and I usually do gifts on Christmas morning with each other, but my family knew what we were getting each other, and got accessories for our new items, so we had no choice but to open in front of everyone. Brandon totally caught me off guard and surprised me with the Nook Color- the gadget I have been dreaming about since I heard of it's release! It is incredible, and I love reading in bed at night with it backlit so it's not bothering Brandon while he is trying to sleep. I surprised Brandon with the iPhone 4, knowing that he wouldn't get it for himself. I look forward to getting it up and going for him today! Now we can FaceTime when he is in Costa Rica this March! Also? We generally don't spend this much on each other and now I know why he told me not to get him a new phone- because I think he went over his budget on the Nook. (He bought the protection plan because of Brayden-wise man, that one!)
From my parents we received a Keurig, I got new pots and pans, Brandon got a new saw- we are definitely spoiled. Brayden got some great new toys that he is LOVING, some new clothes, and the cutest winter hat from BabyGap from my brother's girlfriend and her parents.
We spent Christmas Day with Brandon's family and by the end of it, we looked like Santa's sleigh had broken down and we were the chosen ones to take what was left home! Brayden definitely is spoiled rotten (or as I call it, blessed!) and now we have new toys and trucks and pillow pets and tractors. He is loving it.
Christmas Eve night was spent hosting my family. We always have chili, hot chicken sandwiches, and this year I made hot artichoke dip, veggie tray, meat and cheese tray, plus all of the cookies and candy we made recently! We ate and ate and ate some more, and it was delicious. This is the same meal that my dad always had Christmas Eve when he was growing up- so definitely a stone set tradition. We did gifts as well, and that did not go like I thought it would! Brayden got really excited when we started moving the gifts from the front porch into the living room but when it was time to open? He didn't really take any interest. We had to start unwrapping, show him what might be inside, and THEN he wanted to help. He was very patient as we untangled, snipped wires, etc to get the toys out.
Brandon and I usually do gifts on Christmas morning with each other, but my family knew what we were getting each other, and got accessories for our new items, so we had no choice but to open in front of everyone. Brandon totally caught me off guard and surprised me with the Nook Color- the gadget I have been dreaming about since I heard of it's release! It is incredible, and I love reading in bed at night with it backlit so it's not bothering Brandon while he is trying to sleep. I surprised Brandon with the iPhone 4, knowing that he wouldn't get it for himself. I look forward to getting it up and going for him today! Now we can FaceTime when he is in Costa Rica this March! Also? We generally don't spend this much on each other and now I know why he told me not to get him a new phone- because I think he went over his budget on the Nook. (He bought the protection plan because of Brayden-wise man, that one!)
From my parents we received a Keurig, I got new pots and pans, Brandon got a new saw- we are definitely spoiled. Brayden got some great new toys that he is LOVING, some new clothes, and the cutest winter hat from BabyGap from my brother's girlfriend and her parents.
We spent Christmas Day with Brandon's family and by the end of it, we looked like Santa's sleigh had broken down and we were the chosen ones to take what was left home! Brayden definitely is spoiled rotten (or as I call it, blessed!) and now we have new toys and trucks and pillow pets and tractors. He is loving it.
It's a safe bet that my next few days will be spent hooking up tractors, farming, and racing cars!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
#reverb- day 24
December 24 Prompt – Everything’s OK: What was the best moment that could serve as proof that everything is going to be alright? And how will you incorporate that discovery into the year ahead?
One day, after a long day of dealing with a teething little boy who wouldn't eat, nap, play, or even giggle, I had really started to lose every ounce of patience that I had. We had an awful day and I was just at my wits end about what to do. But then I realized, there was nothing I could do to change it. I couldn't change the bad day that the two of us had shared. It was just part of life, part of Brayden growing, part of the challenge of being a parent.
And I wasn't frazzled or anxious. I was calm about it. I realized right then that the laundry, dishes, and anything else on my list could wait. The most important thing was making sure Brayden was content and nothing could get in the way of that.
I was able to put everything else aside mentally, and just deal with the task at hand. It was a surreal, peaceful, aha! moment. Not to mention, a huge learning experience and epiphany.
One day, after a long day of dealing with a teething little boy who wouldn't eat, nap, play, or even giggle, I had really started to lose every ounce of patience that I had. We had an awful day and I was just at my wits end about what to do. But then I realized, there was nothing I could do to change it. I couldn't change the bad day that the two of us had shared. It was just part of life, part of Brayden growing, part of the challenge of being a parent.
And I wasn't frazzled or anxious. I was calm about it. I realized right then that the laundry, dishes, and anything else on my list could wait. The most important thing was making sure Brayden was content and nothing could get in the way of that.
I was able to put everything else aside mentally, and just deal with the task at hand. It was a surreal, peaceful, aha! moment. Not to mention, a huge learning experience and epiphany.
#reverb- day 23
December 23 – New Name: Let’s meet again, for the first time. If you could introduce yourself to strangers by another name for just one day, what would it be and why?
If I could use another name, just for a day, I think I would have to choose Reese. It is a simple, classy, sophisticated name. Plus it sounds way more exotic than Julie.
It's sassy, sweet, fun, spunky, and classy all rolled into one. I love it.
If I could use another name, just for a day, I think I would have to choose Reese. It is a simple, classy, sophisticated name. Plus it sounds way more exotic than Julie.
It's sassy, sweet, fun, spunky, and classy all rolled into one. I love it.
Top Ten Tuesday
It's Top Ten Tuesday, everyone! This week's topic is the Top 10 Moments/Memories of 2010. Here we go!
10. Brayden sits up by himself for the first time! I was such a proud mama that day. He was starting to show his slight independence at almost 6 months old.
9. Playdates with Laura and Caden. These boys are only 10 days apart, making them absolutely hilarious to watch when they are together.
10. Brayden sits up by himself for the first time! I was such a proud mama that day. He was starting to show his slight independence at almost 6 months old.
9. Playdates with Laura and Caden. These boys are only 10 days apart, making them absolutely hilarious to watch when they are together.
8. Sheana comes to visit for Brayden's dedication/Mother's day. I was so glad she was here to share in that special day!
7. Getting Brayden's 6 month pictures taken. I love these shots from my friend Laura. I will treasure them forever!
6. Wagon rides in the spring! Brayden loves to be outside in the nice weather, so we took a LOT of wagon rides.
5. Impromptu photo shoots with my growing boy.
4. Brayden's 1st birthday. It was kind of a disaster really, since he had been sick the week prior, but it was a huge milestone and we celebrated!
3. I have no picture for this, but in October/November I made the decision to start seeing a therapist- and it was life changing. I feel like a new person today and I am SO glad I took the time to get some help for my anxiety.
2. Getting to share Brandon's passion with Brayden. We spent many a morning/evening farming this fall, and Brayden loved every minute. I even got brave and left him so that I could have an afternoon for myself! It was so fun for the boys, and I got a LOT of house work done that day! I am just so blessed to be able to take Brayden to share in our livelihood at such a young age, and I am even luckier that he likes going!
1. Our vacation to Colorado. 10 days away from the real world in the most beautiful place was such an experience! Brayden did so awesome while we were away and I can't wait to go back. We had an amazing time. Brandon even learned to fly fish and wants to do that again! It is a vacation I will never forget!
Don't forget to visit Sluiter Nation to see what everyone else's Top 10 moments are!
Monday, December 27, 2010
#reverb- day 22
December 22 – Travel How did you travel in 2010? How and/or where would you like to travel next year? (Author: Tara Hunt)
We traveled to Estes Park, Colorado in October for 10 glorious days with my parents and my sister. It was incredible. I was nervous at first, traveling with Brayden, getting him to sleep without a rocking chair, and just in general nervousness- but he did awesome. And I actually got to relax!
Brandon and I went to an incredible steak house while we were there. I had the best Prime Rib I have ever tasted. The dessert platter was straight from a catalog, I swear. And it was just nice to have some us time in the middle of a family vacation.
In 2011, I would like to travel to Nebraska to see my family that has never met Brayden. And maybe to Chicago or St. Louis for an overnight with the hubby. We'll see! :)
We traveled to Estes Park, Colorado in October for 10 glorious days with my parents and my sister. It was incredible. I was nervous at first, traveling with Brayden, getting him to sleep without a rocking chair, and just in general nervousness- but he did awesome. And I actually got to relax!
Brandon and I went to an incredible steak house while we were there. I had the best Prime Rib I have ever tasted. The dessert platter was straight from a catalog, I swear. And it was just nice to have some us time in the middle of a family vacation.
In 2011, I would like to travel to Nebraska to see my family that has never met Brayden. And maybe to Chicago or St. Louis for an overnight with the hubby. We'll see! :)
#reverb- day 21
December 21 – Future Self. Imagine yourself five years from now. What advice would you give your current self for the year ahead? (Bonus: Write a note to yourself 10 years ago. What would you tell your younger self?) (Author: Jenny Blake)
Five years from now I will have already celebrated my 30th birthday, and I am hoping I will be as ok with it then as I am now! Brayden will be almost 7 years old, in school, enjoying Christmas break, will hopefully have siblings, and GAH he will be almost 7? I can't comprehend that. I seriously can't.
Moving on... a letter to the 15 year old me.
Dear 15 year old Julie,
That tall boy in your study hall? Talk to him. He will end up asking you out on a date around Christmas time, and then 4 years later? He will ask you to be his wife. You will endure a lot during those years of courtship, but you will make it- stronger and more in love than ever. And just before your first anniversary? You will get the best surprise of your life- impending parenthood.
Motherhood agrees with you, but this thing called anxiety will start to creep in around the times you were looking forward to the most- Brayden's first holidays. The push and shove of those around you and your own expectations will start to swallow you whole. PLEASE confide in your husband. If you don't, you will just feel worse. He will be slow to understand but ultimately? Your biggest rock. Follow your heart to do what is best.
And the little boy you are blessed with? Cherish every moment. It goes by incredibly fast- faster than you can imagine. There will always be laundry and dishes and dirty bathrooms- but there will only be a few times where that little boy will want you to read with him. Drop what you are doing and do it. He will love it.
-Your 25 year old self
Five years from now I will have already celebrated my 30th birthday, and I am hoping I will be as ok with it then as I am now! Brayden will be almost 7 years old, in school, enjoying Christmas break, will hopefully have siblings, and GAH he will be almost 7? I can't comprehend that. I seriously can't.
Moving on... a letter to the 15 year old me.
Dear 15 year old Julie,
That tall boy in your study hall? Talk to him. He will end up asking you out on a date around Christmas time, and then 4 years later? He will ask you to be his wife. You will endure a lot during those years of courtship, but you will make it- stronger and more in love than ever. And just before your first anniversary? You will get the best surprise of your life- impending parenthood.
Motherhood agrees with you, but this thing called anxiety will start to creep in around the times you were looking forward to the most- Brayden's first holidays. The push and shove of those around you and your own expectations will start to swallow you whole. PLEASE confide in your husband. If you don't, you will just feel worse. He will be slow to understand but ultimately? Your biggest rock. Follow your heart to do what is best.
And the little boy you are blessed with? Cherish every moment. It goes by incredibly fast- faster than you can imagine. There will always be laundry and dishes and dirty bathrooms- but there will only be a few times where that little boy will want you to read with him. Drop what you are doing and do it. He will love it.
-Your 25 year old self
All About the TV
The toddler age is a fun one, right? The constant learning, babbling, new discoveries- it is very endearing to watch. But the tantrums, the whining, and lately, the endless throwing of our Christmas ornaments- whew, it's exhausting.
Lately, my nemesis has been the television. What started out several months ago with a couple of episodes of the Wonder Pets has turned into full fledged movie loving by my 17 month old. Toy Story, Cars, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse- he loves them all. And as soon as he wakes up in the morning, he heads straight for the TV. He has figured out how to unlock the cabinet that houses the DVD player (child proofing phase two will commence as soon as I figure out exactly what that is) and gets kind of ticked off if it isn't the right movie.
Craziness, right?
It's so frustrating. SO frustrating. Because I don't want to raise a child that is GLUED to the TV!
Ok, I take it back. SOME mornings we end up playing in his room for up to an hour but then? He wants a movie on. And he doesn't sit in front of the movie the entire time, just the first 20 minutes or so and then he is playing with it on in the background.
Plus, it is winter so that limits our outside activities.
So I guess don't feel like the worst mom ever ALL the time.
I am hoping that all of these new toys he got for Christmas will occupy his attention, that he will forget about Lightning McQueen, Buzz and Woody, and Mickey Mouse- just for a couple days. I am going to bed singing songs from movies and quite frankly? It is getting super annoying.
But as long as he is happy? I guess I am happy.
Lately, my nemesis has been the television. What started out several months ago with a couple of episodes of the Wonder Pets has turned into full fledged movie loving by my 17 month old. Toy Story, Cars, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse- he loves them all. And as soon as he wakes up in the morning, he heads straight for the TV. He has figured out how to unlock the cabinet that houses the DVD player (child proofing phase two will commence as soon as I figure out exactly what that is) and gets kind of ticked off if it isn't the right movie.
Craziness, right?
It's so frustrating. SO frustrating. Because I don't want to raise a child that is GLUED to the TV!
Ok, I take it back. SOME mornings we end up playing in his room for up to an hour but then? He wants a movie on. And he doesn't sit in front of the movie the entire time, just the first 20 minutes or so and then he is playing with it on in the background.
Plus, it is winter so that limits our outside activities.
So I guess don't feel like the worst mom ever ALL the time.
I am hoping that all of these new toys he got for Christmas will occupy his attention, that he will forget about Lightning McQueen, Buzz and Woody, and Mickey Mouse- just for a couple days. I am going to bed singing songs from movies and quite frankly? It is getting super annoying.
But as long as he is happy? I guess I am happy.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Blog Change
Some of you may have noticed, that if you don't click on my blog posts from a reader, my comments appear to be gone! BUT if you click the title of the post that you want to comment on, the form is at the bottom.
I installed a new comment form because I want to be able to reply to your comments directly-not hunt you down on your blog and comment on YOUR post for something you wrote for mine. Make sense?
So they aren't gone forever, I promise!
Hope you all had a wonderful holiday! I can't wait to share photos from ours- Brayden was so much fun.
I installed a new comment form because I want to be able to reply to your comments directly-not hunt you down on your blog and comment on YOUR post for something you wrote for mine. Make sense?
So they aren't gone forever, I promise!
Hope you all had a wonderful holiday! I can't wait to share photos from ours- Brayden was so much fun.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
I hope you all have a wonderful day filled with giving, love, the spirit of Christmas, and spending time with family and loved ones.
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6
Friday, December 24, 2010
A Social Media Christmas
Someone posted this on Facebook the other day and I couldn't help but pass this along. Very, very interesting!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Holiday Preparations & Winter Wonderland
Last Sunday while a blizzard was making its presence known outside, my sister and I decided to do some more holiday baking.
Because we NEEDED those extra calories and goodness and frosting. YUM.
And then a few days later? Freezing fog gave way to some glorious early morning photos that I am in LOVE with.
It was such a calm, peaceful morning and I took 5-10 minutes while Brandon was inside with Brayden to get these. Next time? I am hoping to drive out a bit farther into the country and see what I see. But for now? I love these winter photos.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
#reverb- day 20
December 20 – Beyond Avoidance-- What should you have done this year but didn’t because you were too scared, worried, unsure, busy or otherwise deterred from doing? (Bonus: Will you do it?) (Author: Jake Nickell)
I should have done a lot of things probably, but I don't like to dwell on regret or coulda, shoulda's. Let's just say I was none to trusting, overbearing, on the verge of craziness, and way too uptight.
I was too busy thinking about repercussions of things that didn't matter to really grasp what was going on. I was too worried about the end result, but not the journey to that result. I wasn't living in the present. It affected everything in everyday for awhile. But now? I just can't care about the future, because I can't do anything to change it. I can only change what I am doing in the moment. And I wish that I would have learned that a LONG time ago.
I should have done a lot of things probably, but I don't like to dwell on regret or coulda, shoulda's. Let's just say I was none to trusting, overbearing, on the verge of craziness, and way too uptight.
I was too busy thinking about repercussions of things that didn't matter to really grasp what was going on. I was too worried about the end result, but not the journey to that result. I wasn't living in the present. It affected everything in everyday for awhile. But now? I just can't care about the future, because I can't do anything to change it. I can only change what I am doing in the moment. And I wish that I would have learned that a LONG time ago.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
#reverb- day 19
December 19 – Healing. What healed you this year? Was it sudden, or a drip-by-drip evolution? How would you like to be healed in 2011? (Author: Leonie Allan)
Without sounding totally cliche, time has been my biggest healer this year. You are all probably sick of hearing about my struggle with anxiety (as am I!) but I really think that time was a huge factor in getting me to where I am now.
I don't believe that time heals ALL wounds, but I do believe there are some things that time can heal. Time gave me perspective, a second chance at the start of every day, and over time, I started to feel whole again.
In the coming year, I want this process to continue. I don't know how or what or when or where but I just want to feel like I do now. And remember how it feels.
Without sounding totally cliche, time has been my biggest healer this year. You are all probably sick of hearing about my struggle with anxiety (as am I!) but I really think that time was a huge factor in getting me to where I am now.
I don't believe that time heals ALL wounds, but I do believe there are some things that time can heal. Time gave me perspective, a second chance at the start of every day, and over time, I started to feel whole again.
In the coming year, I want this process to continue. I don't know how or what or when or where but I just want to feel like I do now. And remember how it feels.
#reverb- day 18
December 18 – Try. What do you want to try next year? Is there something you wanted to try in 2010? What happened when you did / didn’t go for it? (Author: Kaileen Elise)
In 2010, I decided to kick up my photography hobby and start a business. A small one, but a business nonetheless. I did some free sessions, learned more about my camera, invested in 2 new lenses (which I then fell in love with!) and had my friend Laura do a website/blog up for me.
I love it. I am not nearly as busy as I would like, but I am not going to complain. It takes time, and I am nowhere NEAR a professional. I am at the mercy of the outdoors because I don't have a studio so I expected the winter to be slow. I can't wait for spring! :)
I love taking good, quality photos of Brayden and just want to pass that along to others. I love capturing the every day, the out of the ordinary days, and all of the days in between. I hope in the next year to be able to practice more, learn more, and just BE more of the photographer I want to be.
In 2010, I decided to kick up my photography hobby and start a business. A small one, but a business nonetheless. I did some free sessions, learned more about my camera, invested in 2 new lenses (which I then fell in love with!) and had my friend Laura do a website/blog up for me.
I love it. I am not nearly as busy as I would like, but I am not going to complain. It takes time, and I am nowhere NEAR a professional. I am at the mercy of the outdoors because I don't have a studio so I expected the winter to be slow. I can't wait for spring! :)
I love taking good, quality photos of Brayden and just want to pass that along to others. I love capturing the every day, the out of the ordinary days, and all of the days in between. I hope in the next year to be able to practice more, learn more, and just BE more of the photographer I want to be.
Monday, December 20, 2010
#reverb- day 17
December 17 – Lesson Learned What was the best thing you learned about yourself this past year? And how will you apply that lesson going forward? (Author: Tara Weaver)
I learned that I am in control of my life, my decisions, my future. It's in MY hands and no one else's. Every day I get a new chance, a new beginning to be the person that I WANT to be. The person that I NEED to be for my husband, son, family and friends.
I learned that I don't have a lot of time for second guessing, indecisiveness, or the like. I need to make decisions and be happy with them (Wow, I sound like my mom!) and live for each day. I have learned that there are some things to get worried about and some things to not. Going with the flow helps me sleep better at night, and I do love my sleep!
Don't sweat the small stuff- right? And that's what I will be working on in the coming year.
I learned that I am in control of my life, my decisions, my future. It's in MY hands and no one else's. Every day I get a new chance, a new beginning to be the person that I WANT to be. The person that I NEED to be for my husband, son, family and friends.
I learned that I don't have a lot of time for second guessing, indecisiveness, or the like. I need to make decisions and be happy with them (Wow, I sound like my mom!) and live for each day. I have learned that there are some things to get worried about and some things to not. Going with the flow helps me sleep better at night, and I do love my sleep!
Don't sweat the small stuff- right? And that's what I will be working on in the coming year.
A realization
In Brayden's first year, I couldn't imagine starting over. From scratch. More kids. Sleepless nights. Can you say nipple shield?
We got settled into a comfortable routine, Brayden was sleeping all night pretty much EVERY night. We totally lucked out. He was a great baby, and he is everything you would expect in a toddler. And we have a great ebb and flow right now.
So why on EARTH would we mess that up?
I think I have figured out why (some) people have more than one child.
Brayden likes to rough house a little bit, he is busy, and likes to play constantly. Great, right? Well, not if you are the one getting beat up on.
After getting an accidental fat lip the other night due to me being in the wrong place and the wrong time, I said "Little dude, you NEED a brother. This is why (some) people have more than one child. I totally get it now."
And Brandon just looked at me like 'I've been trying to tell you this."
I should have figured this out sooner!
We got settled into a comfortable routine, Brayden was sleeping all night pretty much EVERY night. We totally lucked out. He was a great baby, and he is everything you would expect in a toddler. And we have a great ebb and flow right now.
So why on EARTH would we mess that up?
I think I have figured out why (some) people have more than one child.
Brayden likes to rough house a little bit, he is busy, and likes to play constantly. Great, right? Well, not if you are the one getting beat up on.
After getting an accidental fat lip the other night due to me being in the wrong place and the wrong time, I said "Little dude, you NEED a brother. This is why (some) people have more than one child. I totally get it now."
And Brandon just looked at me like 'I've been trying to tell you this."
I should have figured this out sooner!
Saturday, December 18, 2010
#reverb- day 16
December 16 – Friendship How has a friend changed you or your perspective on the world this year? Was this change gradual, or a sudden burst?
I guess that my perspective based on a friendship this year wasn't changed gradually or in a burst, but somewhere right in between. It's just evolved as we are getting older, have new concerns in life, new hopes and dreams to talk about, and new priorities. I love that my close friendships have allowed for that change in dynamic without being entirely noticeable.
It makes me realize how lucky I am to have these friends in my life, no matter where our individual lives take us!
Friday, December 17, 2010
#reverb- day 15
December 15 – 5 Minutes-- Imagine you will completely lose your memory of 2010 in five minutes. Set an alarm for five minutes and capture the things you most want to remember about 2010. (Author: Patti Digh)
I want to remember those first baby giggles that developed into laughter in the early part of 2010. Baby laughs melt my heart.
I want to remember the times spent with family, friends, and realizing that we are getting older, but that doesn't mean we are getting smarter! :)
I want to remember the look on Brandon's face when he saw Brayden take his first steps. We were beaming with pride. And then quickly realized what kind of trouble we were in!
I want to remember the way Brayden's face lit up when he realized that we were going to ride in the tractor this fall. I want to remember the way Brandon's face lit up when we showed up to ride in said tractor.
I want to remember the feeling in my heart when Brandon said "I think it's time for Brayden to have a sibling." And then the subsequent feeling after Brayden broke yet another ornament off of the tree. And realizing that maybe by next Christmas? Life would be totally different.
I want to remember the feeling of being OK- feeling whole with no anxiety ripping at my heart.
(And this was TOTALLY random BUT it was 5 minutes timed!)
I want to remember those first baby giggles that developed into laughter in the early part of 2010. Baby laughs melt my heart.
I want to remember the times spent with family, friends, and realizing that we are getting older, but that doesn't mean we are getting smarter! :)
I want to remember the look on Brandon's face when he saw Brayden take his first steps. We were beaming with pride. And then quickly realized what kind of trouble we were in!
I want to remember the way Brayden's face lit up when he realized that we were going to ride in the tractor this fall. I want to remember the way Brandon's face lit up when we showed up to ride in said tractor.
I want to remember the feeling in my heart when Brandon said "I think it's time for Brayden to have a sibling." And then the subsequent feeling after Brayden broke yet another ornament off of the tree. And realizing that maybe by next Christmas? Life would be totally different.
I want to remember the feeling of being OK- feeling whole with no anxiety ripping at my heart.
(And this was TOTALLY random BUT it was 5 minutes timed!)
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Recipe: Taco Filled Pasta Shells
Last week, I was telling my bff Jacqui that I had a box of jumbo shells in my pantry that I really needed to use, and she instantly told me about this amazing recipe. I made it Monday night and Brandon raved about it! It was really easy, really yummy, and if you follow the directions below you can make enough for 2 batches- they freeze well!
Taco Filled Pasta Shells
Taco Filled Pasta Shells
2 pounds ground beef
2 envelopes taco seasoning
8 oz cream cheese, cubed
24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells
1/4 cup butter, melted
Additional ingredients for each casserole
1 cup salsa
1 cup taco sauce
2 cups shredded cheese of your choice
crushed tortilla chips
sour cream
green onions
Cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink, drain. Add taco seasoning; prepare according to package directions. Add cream cheese. Cook and stir for 5-10 minutes or until cream cheese is melted. Transfer to a bowl. Chill for an hour.
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Gently toss with butter. Fill each shell with about 3 TBSP of mixture. Fill 12 and put in a freezer safe casserole dish.
To prepare the others, spoon salsa into a greased 9 in square baking dish. Top with stuffed shells and taco sauce. Cover and bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Uncover, top with cheese and crushed chips- bake 15 minutes longer uncovered or until heated through. Serve with sour cream and onions.
To use frozen shells Thaw in the fridge for 24 hours- shells will be partially frozen. Spoon salsa into greased 9 inch baking dish, top with shells and taco sauce. Cover and bake for 40 minutes at 350. Uncover, top with cheese and chips, and then bake for another 15 minutes.
NOTE: I did not freeze any, I just filled as many as would fit into a 9x13 casserole dish. I did not use taco sauce on top, just a little salsa and it was still realllly good.
#reverb- day 14
December 14 – Appreciate -- What’s the one thing you have come to appreciate most in the past year? How do you express gratitude for it? (Author: Victoria Klein)
I can honestly say that I have learned to appreciate my husband much more in the past year than ever before. There are so many things that he does that I just never really noticed or appreciated, I was just glad I didn't have to do them. Not the right attitude. Not even close.
I have really come to understand more why God put the two of us together. Brandon is good at executing, I am good at talking about executing. Brandon is good at organizing. I dream of being good at organizing. Brandon has a way about not wasting time, and I am the world's biggest procrastinator. We actually often joke about how I should just listen to him the first go around, but I generally don't. Sometimes he is right, sometimes he isn't- but he always has mine and Brayden's best interests at heart.
And I don't give him enough credit.
To show my appreciation, I make sure that he comes home to a clean home (most days!), a home cooked meal (most days!), and some time for him to decompress from his day. I try to listen, be a better wife, and be receptive to his needs. Somedays? I totally fail at this. But with anything in marriage, it is a learning experience.
I can honestly say that I have learned to appreciate my husband much more in the past year than ever before. There are so many things that he does that I just never really noticed or appreciated, I was just glad I didn't have to do them. Not the right attitude. Not even close.
I have really come to understand more why God put the two of us together. Brandon is good at executing, I am good at talking about executing. Brandon is good at organizing. I dream of being good at organizing. Brandon has a way about not wasting time, and I am the world's biggest procrastinator. We actually often joke about how I should just listen to him the first go around, but I generally don't. Sometimes he is right, sometimes he isn't- but he always has mine and Brayden's best interests at heart.
And I don't give him enough credit.
To show my appreciation, I make sure that he comes home to a clean home (most days!), a home cooked meal (most days!), and some time for him to decompress from his day. I try to listen, be a better wife, and be receptive to his needs. Somedays? I totally fail at this. But with anything in marriage, it is a learning experience.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
To my Husband...
3 years ago while a blizzard was raging outside, we stood at the altar in a packed church and vowed to honor, love, and cherish each other until death do us part.
We could have never predicted where the last 3 years have taken us, but I know one thing: I love you just as much now, if not more, than I did 3 years ago today, when I vowed all of those things. I meant every single one of them, and I can't wait to grow old(er) with you.
You have been nothing but my rock and support in the last 9 years (yes, 9!) and still can't believe that my love for a boy in high school translated into a life like this. Thank you.
Happy Anniversary! I love you!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Top Ten Tuesday- Holiday Treats
If there is a holiday, you can bet there are treats in the Sancken home. My mom, sister, grandma, grandpa, and I get together every year to make LOTS of candy and treats. We did this all this past weekend, but I forgot my camera...so you will just have to trust me!
10. Glass Candy. Think homemade jolly ranchers rolled in powdered sugar. This is one of my favorites! We made three flavors this year- wintergreen, cinnamon, and strawberry.
9. Butter brickle. You may know it as toffee, but it is butter brickle in my house. This is one of my grandma's specialties, but in recent years, I have learned how to make it. Good thing too, because for some reason my mom always has trouble. You cook butter, sugar, vanilla, and water for what seems like forever, until it is JUST right. Then, you pour that over a bed of pecans and top with Hershey bars so that the chocolate melts. We generally set our candy in the garage or outside to set up so we can enjoy it faster!
8. Peanut Brittle. This is one of my grandpa's specialities and we didn't have a lot of luck with it this year. I am pretty sure it wasn't cooked long enough but I am sure SOMEONE will still eat it!
7. Homemade caramels. Again, my grandpa's specialty. They are SO good, and we always make a bunch to send to my aunt and uncle.
6. Peanut butter balls. Word got out at church that my sister makes these homemade, and they are requested for their cookie walk every year. They are a tedious project, but oh so yummy!
5. Gumdrop cookies. These are not my favorite, but they are a tradition in my mom's family. Think oatmeal cookies with gumdrops.
4. Chocolate pixies. These are chocolate cookies rolled in powdered sugar and then baked. These are Brandons's favorite, and I just made these successfully for the first time on Sunday. yum!
3. Sugar cookies. Because you have to make frosted santa's, snowmen, and trees! This year, I used a new recipe that I found- amazing.
2. Hot Chicken Sandwiches. Yes, this isn't a sweet one, but it is a HUGE tradition on my dad's side for Christmas Eve. Every year we have chili, oyster stew, and these sandwiches. My mom cooks a chicken, grinds the meat up with her grinder, stuffs homemade rolls with the chicken, and bakes them. Yum. They are my favorite part of Christmas Eve I think! Simple, but holds a lot of tradition.
1. Artichoke Dip. Again, not a sweet thing, but we have this every year at least once or twice between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I am definitely making it for Christmas eve this year. And if you notice the title- no spinach.
(Sorry I didn't post the recipes! If there is one you are dying to try, e-mail me and I will hook you up!)
Make sure you visit Sluiter Nation to see everyone else's top Holiday Treats!
10. Glass Candy. Think homemade jolly ranchers rolled in powdered sugar. This is one of my favorites! We made three flavors this year- wintergreen, cinnamon, and strawberry.
9. Butter brickle. You may know it as toffee, but it is butter brickle in my house. This is one of my grandma's specialties, but in recent years, I have learned how to make it. Good thing too, because for some reason my mom always has trouble. You cook butter, sugar, vanilla, and water for what seems like forever, until it is JUST right. Then, you pour that over a bed of pecans and top with Hershey bars so that the chocolate melts. We generally set our candy in the garage or outside to set up so we can enjoy it faster!
8. Peanut Brittle. This is one of my grandpa's specialities and we didn't have a lot of luck with it this year. I am pretty sure it wasn't cooked long enough but I am sure SOMEONE will still eat it!
7. Homemade caramels. Again, my grandpa's specialty. They are SO good, and we always make a bunch to send to my aunt and uncle.
6. Peanut butter balls. Word got out at church that my sister makes these homemade, and they are requested for their cookie walk every year. They are a tedious project, but oh so yummy!
5. Gumdrop cookies. These are not my favorite, but they are a tradition in my mom's family. Think oatmeal cookies with gumdrops.
4. Chocolate pixies. These are chocolate cookies rolled in powdered sugar and then baked. These are Brandons's favorite, and I just made these successfully for the first time on Sunday. yum!
3. Sugar cookies. Because you have to make frosted santa's, snowmen, and trees! This year, I used a new recipe that I found- amazing.
2. Hot Chicken Sandwiches. Yes, this isn't a sweet one, but it is a HUGE tradition on my dad's side for Christmas Eve. Every year we have chili, oyster stew, and these sandwiches. My mom cooks a chicken, grinds the meat up with her grinder, stuffs homemade rolls with the chicken, and bakes them. Yum. They are my favorite part of Christmas Eve I think! Simple, but holds a lot of tradition.
1. Artichoke Dip. Again, not a sweet thing, but we have this every year at least once or twice between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I am definitely making it for Christmas eve this year. And if you notice the title- no spinach.
(Sorry I didn't post the recipes! If there is one you are dying to try, e-mail me and I will hook you up!)
Make sure you visit Sluiter Nation to see everyone else's top Holiday Treats!
#reverb- day 13
December 13 – Action When it comes to aspirations, it’s not about ideas. It’s about making ideas happen. What’s your next step? (Author: Scott Belsky)
On a whim last spring, I decided to launch my photography business. I was all about doing portraits for others, throwing in some neat nature shots, and really taking my hobby to the next level. Now, I am nowhere near skillful enough to be a professional, but if I could take great photos for others, I was happy. Oh, and of course, document Brayden's life while I was at it!
So I read about my camera, lens, took a Photoshop class, did some free sessions, and loved every minute of it. I bought a 50mm 1.8 lens and I love it! It really enhanced what I was already doing.
But I don't think it is enough.
My next move: read more, get inspired by other photographer's, really know the ins and outs of my equipment, get unintimidated by Photoshop, and KEEP taking photos. With enough practice, who knows what could happen!
On a whim last spring, I decided to launch my photography business. I was all about doing portraits for others, throwing in some neat nature shots, and really taking my hobby to the next level. Now, I am nowhere near skillful enough to be a professional, but if I could take great photos for others, I was happy. Oh, and of course, document Brayden's life while I was at it!
So I read about my camera, lens, took a Photoshop class, did some free sessions, and loved every minute of it. I bought a 50mm 1.8 lens and I love it! It really enhanced what I was already doing.
But I don't think it is enough.
My next move: read more, get inspired by other photographer's, really know the ins and outs of my equipment, get unintimidated by Photoshop, and KEEP taking photos. With enough practice, who knows what could happen!
Monday, December 13, 2010
#reverb- day 12
December 12 – Body Integration This year, when did you feel the most integrated with your body? Did you have a moment where there wasn’t mind and body, but simply a cohesive YOU, alive and present? (Author: Patrick Reynolds)
As I walked out of my first therapy session, I felt different. But I couldn't pinpoint it.
I drove through the nearest Starbucks before headed home, soaking in a caramel macchiato and everything that was just hashed out in my session. And then I knew it.
I felt like the old me was making a comeback. That she could brave this storm and come back more vibrant and better. And it was encouraging. And in that moment, I made a decision to change, to help the old Julie rear her head once again and beat this anxiety nonsense. And then suddenly, I was ME again. Whole, but different. Alive and well. And ready to face my burdens.
As I walked out of my first therapy session, I felt different. But I couldn't pinpoint it.
I drove through the nearest Starbucks before headed home, soaking in a caramel macchiato and everything that was just hashed out in my session. And then I knew it.
I felt like the old me was making a comeback. That she could brave this storm and come back more vibrant and better. And it was encouraging. And in that moment, I made a decision to change, to help the old Julie rear her head once again and beat this anxiety nonsense. And then suddenly, I was ME again. Whole, but different. Alive and well. And ready to face my burdens.
#reverb- day 11
December 11 – 11 Things What are 11 things your life doesn’t need in 2011? How will you go about eliminating them? How will getting rid of these 11 things change your life? (Author: Sam Davidson)
1. Anxiety. I just don't have room for it in my life anymore. I plan to use the techniques I have learned in therapy to eliminate it as best I can. It will be SO much better for me, my health, and my family.
2. Material things. I have more than I need, and I really need to trim down the amount of impulse purchases that I buy. It's so tempting, but I know for our budget, I have to.
3. Expectations. I set the bar way too high, resulting in disappointment, and you guessed it! Anxiety.
4. Clutter. Slowly but surely I am eliminating clutter in my life. Has. to. go.
5. Balance. I need to use my time more efficiently.
6. Pop. I reallllly need to cut my Diet Pepsi habit. Seriously.
7. Worry. I need to quit worrying about what others think, about what they are doing, and how they DON'T affect me immediately.
8. Indecisiveness. This goes hand in hand with my anxiety. I don't need it. Don't have time for it.
9. Oreos. Ok, I am only half serious here. But my addiction needs to be whittled down.
10. Bath and Body works products. Brandon found my stash from the last semi-annual sale. Oops! :)
11. Drama. I think we would all be better off without it. Sadly, I don't think this will EVER happen.
1. Anxiety. I just don't have room for it in my life anymore. I plan to use the techniques I have learned in therapy to eliminate it as best I can. It will be SO much better for me, my health, and my family.
2. Material things. I have more than I need, and I really need to trim down the amount of impulse purchases that I buy. It's so tempting, but I know for our budget, I have to.
3. Expectations. I set the bar way too high, resulting in disappointment, and you guessed it! Anxiety.
4. Clutter. Slowly but surely I am eliminating clutter in my life. Has. to. go.
5. Balance. I need to use my time more efficiently.
6. Pop. I reallllly need to cut my Diet Pepsi habit. Seriously.
7. Worry. I need to quit worrying about what others think, about what they are doing, and how they DON'T affect me immediately.
8. Indecisiveness. This goes hand in hand with my anxiety. I don't need it. Don't have time for it.
9. Oreos. Ok, I am only half serious here. But my addiction needs to be whittled down.
10. Bath and Body works products. Brandon found my stash from the last semi-annual sale. Oops! :)
11. Drama. I think we would all be better off without it. Sadly, I don't think this will EVER happen.
Friday, December 10, 2010
#reverb- day 10
December 10 – Wisdom Wisdom. What was the wisest decision you made this year, and how did it play out? (Author: Susannah Conway)
The wisest decision I made this year was to seek some therapy/counseling for my struggles with anxiety. It was hard to admit to myself that this was what I needed. I felt selfish, knowing that every 2 weeks, I would have to leave my boys behind for a couple of hours. Bit in the back of my head, I knew that this would be better for all of us.
So I took a leap of faith, contacted a Christian counselor who specializes in anxiety, OCD, etc. And I have to say, I am so glad I did. I learned a lot about how to control my anxiety, how to put thoughts in the back of my mind, and just live my life for today. Granted, I have my days where most of that knowledge never finds me, but I feel better. More like myself. More like the wife my husband married, and more like the mother God intended me to be.
In the pit of my heart I know I can beat this, I know I can LIVE for today- and that is a huge weight off of my shoulders.
The wisest decision I made this year was to seek some therapy/counseling for my struggles with anxiety. It was hard to admit to myself that this was what I needed. I felt selfish, knowing that every 2 weeks, I would have to leave my boys behind for a couple of hours. Bit in the back of my head, I knew that this would be better for all of us.
So I took a leap of faith, contacted a Christian counselor who specializes in anxiety, OCD, etc. And I have to say, I am so glad I did. I learned a lot about how to control my anxiety, how to put thoughts in the back of my mind, and just live my life for today. Granted, I have my days where most of that knowledge never finds me, but I feel better. More like myself. More like the wife my husband married, and more like the mother God intended me to be.
In the pit of my heart I know I can beat this, I know I can LIVE for today- and that is a huge weight off of my shoulders.
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