Long Walks

I am a total out-doorsy sort of person.  I know you can tell to look at me but I am-  I love being outside!  I the love the fresh air and sunshine; the sounds and smells of nature.  I think that is why I love long walks so much becasue it is a chance to be outside for a long period of time.  That and the fact that is my favorite time to talk to God.  My favorite time to think and ponder and pray.  I am loving that the snow has melted and the weather has warmed up enough to make long walks a daily possibility again.

Outside my window... it is completely dark as it is nearly 9 pm.  I am getting a much later start on this post than usual.

I am thinking... about how angry I am at myself.  How stupid I feel for a genuine mistake that is going to cost us dearly.  Of course, I never like to make mistakes but when the stakes are so high and the cost of messing up effects the people I love... it is even worse.

I am wondering... what I am supposed to be learning from my recent difficulties.  It seems like we have had our share of them lately and I am just wondering why.  I am a firm believer that every experience we are given (even the hard ones) shape us, mold us, prepare us to become who we need to be.  I am trying to view these heartaches in that way but to be honest I am just not seeing it right now.  I am wondering when the dark clouds will pass and the sun will shine brightly in my life again!

I am wearing... my jammies

I am reading... 1000 Gifts, Women, Food and God.  I just finished The Dragon Sanctuary and have to recommend the series to anyone with children.  It really is a great story.  I am heading out to Barnes and Nobel tomorrow to buy the final book in the series- then I can get serious about my "real" reading. 

I am creating... moving cards... that is the project of the week and I really have to get them done!  I won't be sending them out until June but I think you will like them when you get them!

I am praying for... peace, comfort and understanding.  I am praying for faith to weather the storm! 

I am hearing... (from a distance) Robert read to the boys.  He is so good to do that with them- they truly love it!

I am going... to go the the dentist this week.  I actually love getting my teeth cleaned.  I am just hoping that is all that has to be done.

I am quoting...  A sweet friend from church.  He is an older man with some physical and mental challenges and is without question, the sweetest person I have ever met.  Robert is his Home Teacher and he has really attached himself to us.  He has decided recently that he really enjoys giving us gifts.  Today he brought me two books one called " Fresh cut Flowers for Mother" and the other called "Chicken Soup for the Mothers Soul".  Of course, I was delighted and thought it was really kind of him but the cutey part (and the reason I am quoting him today) is what he said when he gave me the books.  He said," Laura these are for you.  This one (referring to Fresh cut flowers for Mother") is a book about Mother's and this one (referring to Chicken Soup for the Mothers Soul) is a recipe book"  I could not help but smile!  That kind of innocence and kindness and generosity makes my heart swell!    


My spiritual thoughts include... how grateful I am for the gospel in my life.  It is the anchor that keeps me on course when the seas of life get rough.  I honestly do not know how I would survive hard time without the knowledge, testimony and faith I have in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
 
Around the house... I am ready to make some changes and improvements to our stuff.  My project list is a mile long.  It consists mostly of painting but I have a sewing projects as well.  I am hoping I have time to get everything done before we move.

Today I miss... simpler times.

I am hoping... to finalize paperwork for the house and Pennfield this week.  It is past time to wrap these things up.
 
I have been procrastinating... hum... if I can't think of anything does that mean I am not procrastinating anything?  Probably not.  But I hope it means that whatever it is I have put off doesn't count against me since I can't remember what it is!
 
One of my favorite things... new socks.  It is a simple things but I just the love the feel of new socks.  It ranks right up there with new bed sheets!

A few plans for the rest of the week.... (sigh) do I really have to think about it?  Major changes to the boys school curriculum in preparation for next year, x-rays, dentist, Karate, Scouts, Leadership Training meeting, cookies, VTing, house, shopping.







Here is picture or two to share...

 

 

Spencer and and his little friend Janessa in the pumpkin hats they made.  Aren't they cute?  The hats and the kids!!  I am loving Spencer smile- wish I could get something like that out of him these days!  LOL!

Packages in the Mail

I know it is a little thing but honestly, I just love it!  I love that I can shop on-line, get whatever I need and have it delivered right to my door.  Is that totally lazy of me?  Probably but I love it anyway!  And when packages arrive that I am not expecting or did not ordered myself, it is even better!  Anyway, Spencer is working on what he calls "e-packages".  He says it is just like e-mail but with packages.  I think it is a fantastic idea.  He says he almost has it figured out- he just has to nail down the teleportation part of the plan!  I hope as his Mom I get the privilege of trying it out first!

I have been down and out with a Migraine since Sunday night.  It has not been as bad an usual but I have been sleeping a lot.  And missed posting a few things.  Hopefully I will be back on track tomorrow.

I am still striving to find the casue of and cure for these darn headaches.  It feels like a never ending battle and it really is making me crazy!

Brain Pain! 

(I know that is really two words but you get the idea)

Spring

It has been a long time since I lived in a place where winter was really winter and spring was such a welcomed sight.  I am loving the warmer weather, the return of colorful chattering bird, the white puffy clouds.  It just makes my heart swell.  We even have a few tulip shoots poking out of the ground in the front yard.  There is nothing like a hard, cold winter to make one appreciate the color and warmth of spring!

Outside my window... it is cold and overcast.  A few weekends ago I thought it was spring.  I cleaned the house from top to bottom and put all of our extra blankets away.  Today I am thinking about getting them back out again.

I am thinking... about all of the expenses we have coming up.

I am wondering... what our finances will look like by the end of the summer.  With all of the projects, traveling, moving and setting up, camps, and outtings- it is going to be an expensive few months.

I am wearing... Grey slacks and a white button down shirt.

I am reading... 1000 Gifts, Women, Food and God, and The Dragon Sanctuary.  I think I am enjoying the Dragon Sanctuary best becasue it is just fluff. 

I am creating... plans, glorious plans.  I creating plans for school for the boys- curriculum, field trips, extra curricular activities for the spring.  I creating plans for the summer- projects, traveling, moving, getting set settled in the new house.  I am creating plans for a family vacation when Robert gets back- I can't decide between Disney World, Hawaii, or a Cruise.  I love planning- life is always perfect in my plans!

I am praying for... direction to know how to help Spencer.  I am praying that Pennfield is the right choice for him.  That he will grown and excel there.  I am praying that he gets in and that we can actually afford to have him there.  I am praying for strength to take whatever comes as a result of that decision- especially while Robert is away.

I am hearing... The hum of the computer.

I am going... to get my stuff super organized so moving this summer is not so stressful.

I am quoting... 

My spiritual thoughts include... how grateful I am for a living Prophet.  This month in Primary we are learning about Prophets ancient and modern.  As I prepared to teach yesterday I was reminded of something my friend taught we a few years ago.  I was teaching a class in RS on prophets and had drawn a picture on the board of a boat on the water with an anchor sinking deep to the bottom of the sea.  I said  "For me, a prophets counsel is like an anchor in the seas of life.  It keeps me on the right path even when the waves get rough."  My friend raised her hand and asked if she could add something to my drawing.  She came up and drew another anchor off the other side of my boat and said, "For me, the counsel of a living prophet is one anchor.  The other anchor is the counsel we have in the scriptures from ancient prophets.  Together, they not only keep me on course but prevent me from being capsized."  I loved her thoughts and think they are so true!
 
Around the house... I have much to do.  We are all picked up but we are in need a a deep spring clean.

Today I miss... My sweet Italian Sisters.


I am hoping... our appointment with Shannon is not postponed AGAIN.
 
I have been procrastinating...too many things to start counting.

One of my favorite things... staying awake on Sunday afternoon and actually doing something productive.  Like reading, writing, going for a walk, planning the week with Robert, talking with the boys.


A few plans for the rest of the week.... school for the boys, sing on the Lepes Rd house, FHE, Karate, scouts, music practice, RS birthday celebration, trip plan, address change cards, Vting.

Here is picture or two to share...

These are oldies but I just love them!  The boys look so cute and have grown SOOO much.  Robert and I look younger and oh so much thinner (sigh).  The good ol' days!

A husband who dutifully (and without complaining) plunges all of the toilets in our house on a daily basis.

Okay, I feel I need to do some explaining.  Our house has MAJOR plumbing problems.  Robert has snaked every toilet, sink and shower in the house multiple times over the last 7 months AND we still find it necessary to plunge the toilets every day.  It is absolutely infuriating.  But the inconvenience and Robert's diligence in dealing with it has taught me many things.  1) I am so blessed to have a husband who loves me enough to do the dirty work so I don't have to.  2) How grateful I am for a husband who feels a sense of duty to take care of his family and actually does something about it.  I think dutiful husbands are a dying breed these days and I feel so blessed to have one of my own.  I am grateful that my boys have that to look up to in their Dad.  I hope they will always be aware of their duties as husbands and fathers and will fulfill them with honor.  3)  I am amazed and humbled that Robert never complains- never!  Not once in the last 7 months have I heard him utter a word complaint.   He never even acts put out (I suppose he figures I do enough of both of those things for all of us).  He has learned that nothing good comes from complaining so he simply does not do it.  That impresses and inspires me more than I can say.  4)  He is even willing to move to a new house so I don't have to plunge toilets myself for the 14 months he is away.  Is there any greater kind of love than that?  Today I don't think there is!!  I am so blessed!  

Resolution (how I love thee)!

I am thankful for friends who trust me enough to let me see them struggle.

I have a friend who recently moved away from her home and family to train for what she thought was her dream job.  She was so excited and of course, I was excited for her!  She was gone for exactly two weeks before failing her first round of testing and being sent home.  She was devastated and as her friend I was too.   

By the worlds standards my friend failed, big time.  She took a risk and lost.  But I hope she never feels her experience was in vain.  If nothing else, her experience has taught me many things.  1) How much I love and appreciate her friendship.  Her honesty with the world, her trust in me, her confidence in herself- I admire and respect these things in her more than I can say.  I hope to be that honest, trusting, confident someday.  2) The fear of failure in me is real and has kept me from doing many needful things.  It has kept me from failing- yes.  But it has also kept me from feeling the joy of doing what I never thought I could.  It has kept me from the growth that comes from stretching and striving.  I am beginning to understand that failure to try is far worse than failure to succeed.  3) Failing is nothing to be ashamed of because the people who love us the most will be there to pick us up when we fall, dust us off and send us on our way- cheering us on all the while.  Friends actually make failure easier to bear.  4) No one is immune to the struggles of life.  We are all fighting our own desperate battle.  Understanding that and really believing it has changed me in a profound way.  It has made it possible for me to love people for who they really are not for the burdens they carry in this life.  It has helped me see myself anew- more the way I imagine God would have me be. 

So today I thank you dear friend, for trying and failing and not hiding it for me.  Your experience and friendship have taught me so much!

Outside my window... it is overcast and raining.


I am thinking... life is about to get really crazy! Travel, birthdays, yard sale, the pack out, more travel, more birthdays and the move! Yikes- this is the beginning of the bumpy road we always face the summers we move. Since there really isn't any other choise, I guess we better hang on and enjoy the ride.

I am wondering... if the lesson I gave today had the desired effect. It was a bit unexpected. I prepared a lesson for the Presidency but ended up sharing it with everyone. I felt unprepared. I didn't say everything I wanted to say and said all kinds of things I didn't plan. Hum... I hope they got what they needed in spite of me.

I am wearing... Sunday clothes... and slippers!

I am reading... nothing at the moment. A friend lent my the first season of the Ghost Whisperer and watching it has occupied all of my extra time. When I am done with the show I will venture on to new books.


I am creating... birthday cards for the boys. I figure if it is going to get done it will have to happen before the movers come and they will be here soon.




I am praying for... direction to know what to do with the boys for school next year. I am really torn. I really want them to be at a school that we simply cannot afford. I would like to homeschool but I am just not sure I am up for it. I don't know what to do. I am praying to know what is best.
I am hearing... silence.

I am going... to take Ross to the doctor tomorrow to get his crusty old cast removed. After deciding to keep it on the last time we were in- they promised that they would replace the one he has no tomorrow no matter what. I am thrilled. Ross and casts are quite a fragrant mix!

I am quoting... Sister Allred of the General Relief Society Presidency. She said to the sisters of the church, "The Relief Society needs you and you need Relief Society." I made a sign with a picture of a beehive and this saying for each of the Branchs in the District. We got to deliver our first one today.

My spiritual thoughts include... how grateful I am for the gospel of Jesus Christ. How thankful I am for a loving Heavenly Father who knows my weaknesses and gently urges me to change. I can feel his loving guidance in my life. I know that he knows me and really wants what is best for me. I know he is helping me to become what he knows I can be.
 
Around the house... things are a disaster. There are piles of things to sell and pack all over the house, yard, 
storeroom and garage. I am hoping that after next Saturday- things will be better.

Today I miss... Church parking lots. We had to haul all of our stuff plus four kids and all of their stuff from the parking lot to the building. Not fun!

I am hoping... next week is a little less hecktic. I hope I can get everything done and still get Spencer his 4 hours of school each day!


I have been procrastinating...too many things to start counting.

One of my favorite things... free time on Saturday night. Time to talk or watch a movie or just hang out when the house is clean, the chores are done, the clothes are ready, the lessons are prepared. It doesn't happen very often but when it does... I love it!

A few plans for the rest of the week.... Robert to airport, Dr Appointment, School with Spencer, Cooking Class, FHE, Seminary, Make Bread, Make Ganola, Homeschool Meeting, Curtians, Sheets, Towels, Take Decor Down, go through Decor in the garage, Yard Sale, Lesson.

Here is picture or two to share...

I love these pictures of the boys. They were taken at the Flegreo Branch Building in Pouzzoli. I think the boys look cute. They are really growing up!

Outside my window... the sun is shining and it was shining all day- thank heavens! Last time we had our District Relief Society activity and needed to be outside to paint it rained. It was not ideal. BUT today it was sunny, and clear and cool the whole time. It was perfect.


I am thinking... we had a great activity today and I will really miss being in this place among the Sister here.

I am wondering... if the Sisters felt that their day was well spent? I am also wondering if the Sister who did not attend are okay. Sometimes I get sad becasue it seems the Sisters who need these things the most are the ones who chose not to attend.

I am wearing... jeans and a black button down shirt. I felt terrible becasue I forgot my skirt to change into for the spiritual meeting and had to conduct and give my talk in these clothes.

I am reading... Still working on The Diary of Anne Frank and The Uglies. I was tempted to start a new book this week but refrained. I don't want to start anything new until I have finshed what I started.

I am creating... nothing at the moment and it feels great. I am not good at creativity with a deadline. I think my creative juices have been sucked dry for the time being.

I am praying for... help getting through another Sunday in Caserta.  It has been so hard lately and it is no ones fault but my own.


I am hearing... silence.

I am going... to take a nap tomorrow and the clean this messy house.

I am quoting... "if you look at it right the whole world is a garden" The little girl Mary from the Secret Garden. I love this thought and think it is so true. The beauty and goodness of life are completely subjective.




My spiritual thoughts include... my gratitude for answered prayers. for strength to do things that I could not do on my own. For a knowledge that God lives and loves us. That he is aware of our weaknesses but will use us anyway. For the time I have been in Italy working with the Sisters here. For the wonderful women I have met and for the lessons I have learned from them. I know that I was given the opportunity to serve here becasue I had something to give but more importantly becasue I had something to learn. I hope I will always remember those lessons.
 
Around the house... things are a disaster. I am now a day behind on cleaning. I guess I will have to make up for it all on Monday!

Today I miss... my mom and sisters. I thought several times day how much fun it would have been to be at this activity with them. I don't think I have ever done that- I think it is high time we planned something like this as part of a family reunion.

I am hoping... I can make up for this lost work day without affecting Spencer's school work too much.


I have been procrastinating... I don't know. Not becasue there isn't something (I am sure there is) but just becasue my brain is fried.

One of my favorite things... working hard for something and seeing it pay off.

A few plans for the rest of the week.... house, car, yard, store, GMC, Scholastic, NHG blog, picture blog, school, seminary, Dr. appointments, PE... I don't want to think about what else there is to do.

Here is picture to share...

Some of the Sisters and their projects from today. They are great ladies!

Outside my window... the sun is shining and there is a cool spring breeze! It is really nice. Outside my window there is almost lost of stinky air becasue people are burning their trash but I suppose stinky air is simply the price that must be paid in Naples for sunny warm days!


I am thinking... we had a very successful Saturday. Robert and the boys were immensely helpful today and baring any unforeseen snags- I am on target to get everything done AND get in bed at a reasonable hour!

I am wondering... who is the world we are going to fit all of our stuff in to our RI house. I know it is going to work- it always does but right now I can't see how!

I am wearing...regular clothes- yeah for me!

I am reading... The Diary of Anne Frank and The Uglies. I finished The others this week. And I must say Nation is one of the best books I have ever read. It is funny and serious and sad and very profound. I highly recommend it.

I am creating... all the same things as last week- samples of everything we are going to try to make at the DRS activity on the 27th- boxes, tags, cards, bags & pillows. It was a little tricky at first but I think I finally got it.

I am praying for... the patience and understanding and humility I will need to make it through another Sunday in Caserta.


I am hearing... the busy buzzing of children playing outside.

I am going... to watch a movie tonight with Robert- maybe Hamlet!

I am quoting... "We are reaching for the future we are reaching for the past and not matter what we have wee reach for more. We are despite to discover what is just beyond our grasp may that's what heaven is for" Hillary Weeks

My spiritual thoughts include... my personal testimony that every Sister in the Church needs RS and that RS needs every Sister. I think the days of having a casual relationship with our Sisters in the Gospel are over. The world is changing and will continue to change in ways that affect us as women, daughters, wives and mothers. I think the time is not far distant when we will need each other in a very real way. The days ahead are scary and at the same time exciting. I am grateful to be a part of an organization of women who are faithful and strong.

Around the house... things are looking pretty good. Thanks to the boys it is clean- I am thrilled!

Today I miss... being near family. We got a picture of some of the cousins on the Wadsworth side- I was startled how much everyone has grown. It is really hard to think that we are missing out on so much of everyone's lives.

I am hoping... I can make it through Church without crying or causing a scene.


I have been procrastinating... making Mom's sign.

One of my favorite things... a clean house and a full refrigerator.

A few plans for the rest of the week.... school, seminary, RI stuff, DRS stuff, Dr. appointments, PE, Scholastic.

Here is picture to share...

This is a ginormous Greek statue (25 feet tall) of a man holding something above his head. The man is laying on his back right now but just imagining him standing up "holding" the ceiling of a building is completely awesome!

Outside my window... the sun is shining but it is still very cold. I know becasue I spent the morning outside taking down the trampoline and getting the potted herbs in the ground and my fingers and toes are still frozen.

I am thinking... that I might homeschool both the boys next year- yikes! It is a scary thought for sure but one we are seriously considering for many reasons.

I am wondering... I am wondering if my grand ideas for what life will be like in RI are possible. I am such an idealistic person- sometimes that is a blessing and sometimes it is a curse. I hope it can be exactly what we hope it will be. We need that kind of time in our lives.

I am wearing...I am embarrassed to admit it but yes, I am in exercise clothes again!

I am reading... too many books right now. The last Olympian, Anne Frank, The Uglies, and a fantastic book called Nation. Robert is actually reading it to me- what a treat. I can't even remember the last time someone read me a book- it really is fun!

I am creating... samples of everything we are going to try to make at the District RS activity on the 27th- boxes, tags, cards, bags & pillows. I am also working on centerpieces for the tables and door signs. FUN!

I am praying for... peace, direction, understanding, diligence.


I am hearing... nothing!

I am going... to give myself a pedicure this week- I really need it, my feet feel like sandpaper.

I am quoting... my friend Donna from Fairfield who said, "my goal is not to isolate my children from the evils of the world but to insulate them from it with truth." I have been thinking about this a lot and wondering what the proper balance is. How do we properly balance being in the world but not of it? Hum...

My spiritual thoughts include... my gratitude for a knowledge of a kind of loving God. I can't imagine trying to make sense of this work without the fundamental truth that we are God's children, that he loves us and want us to be like him and that he is over all.
 
Around the house... I needs a house keeper! END OF STORY!

Today I miss... having friends in the Parco to hang out with.

I am hoping... our activity on the 27th is good. I hope it is relaxing and uplifting for the Sisters. I hope they feel the spirit and learn something new and have a renewed desire to go forward in faith for the next 6 months.


I have been procrastinating... getting really organized for the DRS activity. I am struggling with it this time through. I am tired and not terribly enthusiastic. I am praying for a change of heart as I really do want this activity to be a success.

One of my favorite things... accomplishing something that was hard for me to do.

A few plans for the rest of the week.... school, seminary, RI stuff, DRS stuff, softball practice... hum, I think that is it.

Here is picture to share...

This is one of the title designs I came up with for the NHG blog. It was not chosen but I love it becasue I took that picture in Sicily and then edited it in photoshop. And becasue olive trees are so Italian!

Outside my window... The sun is shining and Spencer and I just spent an hour on the trampoline soaking it all in! I love the sunshine!

I am thinking... That our summer plans are finally coming together. We FINALLY decided against the cruise (I feel really good about that decision), made reservations for our trip to Germany, have talked through our trip from Va to RI, and almost have a contract on a house. We will shortly have orders so we can schedule our pack out too. I am thinking all of that is pretty darn great!


I am wondering... I am wondering if my brain dumping session this weekend will be as productive as I hope it will be. I have high hopes.

I am wearing...exercise clothes again- uuuggg! I am wearing my old New Balance shoes and forgot how uncomfortable they are. My feet have been hurting all day. I really to love my runnersworld.com ones!

I am reading... The last Olympian- so far so good! Still working on Anne Frank with the boys- they really 
like it.

I am creating... personalized stationary for Piper for her birthday and a card for Chris. I am also scrambling on my DRS activity craft stuff.

I am praying for... patience, faith, strength, desire to do what is right and good for the right reasons. I am also praying for little Hazie J and my sister.

I am hearing... Spencer hum the Darth Vader theme song.

I am going... to clean that darn hall closet TODAY.

I am quoting... Ross on his way out the door this morning said, "Okay mom it is Family Fun Night tonight- I expect a report on what we are doing when I get home" Oh child! His antics are only funny when you are not the parent!


My spiritual thoughts include... How grateful I am for the good in my life and for the bad that I have been protected from. I am grateful for the spiritual safety net the standards of the church are against the evils of our day. I know that keeping the standards of the church has prevented all kinds of heart break and heartache I might have otherwise face in life.
 
Around the house... well unfortunately, it is in need of our regular Saturday deep cleaning- the yard and care need tending to as well. But the garage is clean- I did that last weekend.

Today I miss... shopping in real stores.

I am hoping...I don't run out of steam before all the work is done this weekend.


I have been procrastinating... getting really organized for the DRS activity. I am struggling with it this time through.

One of my favorite things... days when I don't have to make dinner.

A few plans for the rest of the week... I seriously I don't even want to think about it. ALL the same old stuff and last week I suppose. Sheez- I need a little variety in my life.

Here is picture to share...

Spencer and Ross exploring caves- aren't they tough and totally cool?

Outside my window... The sun is shining, the air is clear and crisp- it is beautiful. I have been missing the sunshine. I hope it is here to stay.

I am thinking... I have to find some time to organize my thoughts and feelings because I am really starting to lose it. the trouble is every time I get a moment to myself- I fall asleep. Aarrgg- I hate that.


I am wondering... how I can possible help my family through the trails of life when I am struggling simply to keep my head above water.

I am wearing... a skirt, boots, a black shirt and sweater. I have on my silly multi colored button necklace too. I got it for E1 at the market in Aversa- got to love that!

I am reading... A book called the Westing Game. it is kind of silly. I am also reading the diary of Anne Frnak to the boys- it is not silly at all!

I am creating... at this very moment- homemade whole wheat bread- yumm! I even ground the flour myself from wheat in our food storage (yes, I suppose I am patting my self on the back)

I am praying for... guidance to help Spencer, peace to deal with my own stresses, understanding for how I can help best fill Ross's needs, patience in dealing with the move, and strength to get everything done with a smile.


I am hearing... Spencer eating the pasta he made himself for lunch.

I am going... to go up stairs and get a drink of water- I am parched.

I am quoting... The Declaration of Independence, "We hold these truths to be self- evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed."

My spiritual thoughts include... my total and complete gratitude for the inspired men whose ideals were the foundation of our great nation. I can see the hand of the Lord in all of their endeavors for freedom. I know that the work they did was the work of the Lord and made the Restoration of the Gospel possible. I know that the Book of Mormon is a record of the commandments and blessings promised to the people in America. I hope we contiue to live according to those commandments so we can continue to recieve the Lords blessings!
 
Around the house... things are actually somewhat clean- it is nothing short of a miracle. I have not had a house keeper now since August and it is a real pain in the rump to keep this house clean. We can keep things in order without much trouble but keeping it clean in another story all together. Yesterday we had a toilet overflow so I had the mop bucket out when Ross got home from school. He came in the door and said, "Mom how come you are always acting like a janitor?" That is exactly what I want to know?

Today I miss... looking forward to an organized, fun filled summer. One that does not include moving halfway around the world!

I am hoping... We get Spencer an appointment sooner than the 9th so we can get those order in our hands. I am also hoping my Joanne's package comes soon.


I have been procrastinating... cleaning that up stairs cabinet. Seriously, it will only take 30 minutes and then I won't have to think about it anymore. I am doing it TODAY (or maybe tomorrow)!

One of my favorite things... homemade pasta- now I understand how an entire countries diet could revolve around pasta- when it is fresh and homemade it is AMAZING!

A few plans for the rest of the week... all the usual and getting both cars up and running- right now both are out of commission.

Here is picture to share...

Spencer among the ruins at the Valley of Temples in Sicily!

Outside my window... we have more rain. In fact, there is a HUGE puddle in the back yard because the ground can't hold any more water. Hello, enough already!

I am thinking... I am kind of excited about the weekend. We have a few projects to work on and we are going to the movies but mostly I plan to just relax.


I am wondering... what kind of a house we will end up with in RI. What it will look like. Where it will be? Where I will put my furniture and I will use and what I will need to fill in the holes.


I am wearing... exercise clothes- again! Seriously I need a new wardrobe or maybe just a reason to wear the stuff I already have.

I am reading... Two great books right now. One called the Migraine Brain- it is awesome! And one called Juicing, Fasting and Detoxing for Life. I am excited about the things I am learning and look forward to being able to apply some of what i am learning soon.

I am creating... bags, tags and more with my cricut machine.

I am praying for... patience and wisdom to know what to do with the boys for school next year.


I am hearing... Spencer playing with his LEGOS. He is grunting and growling and making all kinds of whooping and whoshing sounds. How come boys are so funny?

I am going... to make dinner for my friend tonight- she had a baby this week. I am so excited for her!

I am quoting... The Declaration of Independence, "We hold these truths to be self- evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed."

My spiritual thoughts include... my total and complete gratitude for the inspired men whose ideals were the foundation of our great nation. I can see the hand of the Lord in all of their endeavors for freedom. I know that the work they did was the work of the Lord and made the Restoration of the Gospel possible. I know that the Book of Mormon is a record of the commandments and blessings promised to the people in America. I hope we continue to live according to those commandments so we can continue to receive the Lords blessings!
 
Around the house... things are a MESS. I am so sick of living in a messy house. I am just not sure how to get things done when I am teaching Spencer at home. Things are picked up but not clean- it makes me nuts. Saturdays are usually cleaning days but last week we were out of town so it is extra bad today!

Today I miss... health food stores like Whole Foods.

I am hoping... to get orders soon!

I have been procrastinating... getting my health plan all figured out. I am too much of a perfectionist. I am working to get every detail taken care of before I jump in. It is bad, bad, bad- I know.

One of my favorite things... sea breeze- I just love the feel and smell of fresh sea air. I really am an outdoorsy kind of gal- though I think people would not think it of me.

A few plans for the rest of the week... homeschool, RS stuff, food storage plan, seminary lessons, FHE, piano, cooking class, exercise, RI plan, health plan COMPLETED, garage clean out, medicine cabinet clean out, and a nap at some point!

Here is picture to share...

The symbol of a great nation!

Outside my window... the sun is shinning and spring is in the air. I am savoring the short winters we have had here in Italy as I know Rhode Island winters will be long and challenging.

I am thinking... I have got to get a grip on my life because I feel like a complete failure. I always wanted to make a difference in the world but... I haven't. I have done nothing spectacular with my time, talents, opportunities. Heck, I can't even get my kids to brush their hair! What is my problem?

I am wondering... what it is going to take to get my act together.

I am wearing... exercise clothes (I haven't exercised yet today but it is on my list of things to do).

I am reading... Travel books about Sicily. We are going there next weekend.

I am creating... Valentines day cards with my cricut machine. They are not really cute but they get the message across.

I am praying for... strength to do what I know I must do.


I am hearing... clothes tumbling dry in the dryer.

I am going... to be optimistic about who I am and where I am in my journey through life.

I am quoting... Hillary Weeks song Reaching, "We are reaching for the future. We are reaching for the past. And no matter what we have we reach for more. We are desperate to discover what is just beyond our grasp, maybe that's what heaven is for."

My spiritual thoughts include... the need I have to balance my drive for excellence with the counsel we have been given to be patient, humble, meek, submissive. I feel greatness inside but feel shackled by my weaknesses and insecurities. I know that God has great things in store for me (and I don't mean greatness in the worlds sense) if I could just get my actions in line with my intentions, desires, dreams. Am I the only one that feels this way? The feeling these thoughts produce is actually painful- my lack of real success in life actually hurts.
 
Around the house... things are pick up but certainly not clean. Unfortunately, the cleaning is not going to happen today.

Today I miss... the happy carefree days of my youth.

I am hoping... to feel better about myself, my life, my decisions SOON.

I have been procrastinating... getting our food storage organized. It is a huge project and the thought of it is overwhelming. We decided not to take our food storage with us when we move- so that means we have to use it over the next 6 months. It is a fun undertaking BUT it is time consuming. And requires a lot of preparation and planning.

One of my favorite things... white pottery. I have a collection that I love. Italy is famous for their pottery (see the picture below) and I am so glad I had time in italy to add to my collection.

A few plans for the rest of the week... school, RS stuff, Food storage plan, Scripture Mastery plan, FHE, Sicily prep, piano, cooking class, exercise, RS activity.

Here is picture to share...

White pottery from Nove, Italy. They make and export some of the worlds most popular dishes. These dishes are in the middle of production. They have not been glazed or fired yet.

Outside my window... the sun has set and darkness abounds. It is cold and wet. There is a perfect full moon illuminating the lingering storm clouds- it is actually quite beautiful.

I am thinking... that life is pretty good and that I have everything that really matters.

From the kitchen... well, the kitchen is closed.

I am wondering... what kind of joys and challenges 2010 will bring.

I am wearing... jeans, a really cute brown and orange sparkle shirt (mom gave me) and a sweatshirt. I am actually quite comfy.

I am reading... same as last week.

I am creating... tags for my "harvest market designs" items. I am having fun but I haven't created just the right thing yet.

I am praying for... the faith and strength and patience and determination to truly become this year; to find my way and fulfill my purpose.

I am hearing... total and complete silence. The boys are in bed and Robert is out of town.

I am going... make some tea, turn on some good music and keep working on my tags.

I am quoting... Oprah Winfrey when she said, "While I was waiting on God, God was waiting on me. To either live the life that was meant for me or to be satisfied with the one I was living." This might just be my favorite quote of all time. Not only because I can relate to the uneasiness and (often times) frustration of "waiting on God" but also because it implies (and I believe) that living the life the life that was meant for us is something we choose and more importantly work for, not something that merely happens to us.

My spiritual thoughts include... my gratitude for a Savior who gave his life for me. We talked about the atonement last week in Seminary and I was reminded again of the reality of his life and death. Of the power and peace available to us through his sacrifice. I am so glad I get to live my life with a knowledge of him.
 
Around the house... the floors need to be swept. I can't wait to get back into a house with a little less tile.

Today I miss... mail that delivered right to your house- what a luxury! I can't wait to have a mailbox again!

I am hoping... my packages to arrive soon.

I have been procrastinating... getting serious about getting in shape. Whaaa! What is wrong with me?

One of my favorite things... paper. I don't know why- it doesn't make much sense but i just LOVE paper. I love office and craft supplie too but mostly paper.

A few plans for the rest of the week... school, seminary, Odyssey of the Mind, GMC, Baseball sing-ups, post office, mail from Capo, Rhode Island research...

Here is picture to share...

Shopping with Mom in Verona, Italy.

This is what 32 looks like- yikes!

Outside my window... I see blue skies and sunshine- thought it is still colder than cold.

I am thinking... about how nice it is to have a stay at home Saturday with nothing much to do. The house is already clean, the car is washed, lawn mowed, bread made... I think this is what Saturdays are supposed to be like.

From the kitchen... Spencer is busy making fried eggs. He is "experimenting" and has used about a dozen eggs so far. At least he has not set the fire alarm off yet, that is what happens every time I make fried eggs.

I am wondering... if my headache will ever go away or if I am to be plagued with it forever!

I am wearing... jeans, a sweatshirt, a vest.

I am reading... too many books. Battle of the Labyrinth, The Wednesday Letters, Zions Covenant, a book called Hope in Everyday.

I am creating... nothing right now but I REALLY WANT TO CREATE SOMETHING SOON. I just ordered some bags to paint. I want to make some more signs. I have beads for bracelets. And I really want to make some cards with the Circuit!

I am praying for... for peace. I feel very out of sorts lately. I don't feel peaceful and calm. And I have decided that part of it must stem from a desire to suppress my anxiety about not knowing what this year holds in store for me and my family. I wish I could really let it go but I am afraid I am just pretending to let it go becasue deep down I just feel tension and stress and all kinds of discord.
I am hearing... the hum of a happy house on a lazy Saturday morning!

I am going... enjoy the nothingness of the day without feeling guilty about it.

I am quoting... a card I got as a gift from Christmas, it says, "Dreams come a size too big, so we have room to grow into them."

My spiritual thoughts include... my gratitude of the blessing of the Gospel. For a knowledge of God as a perfect loving Father. For faith that he hears and answers prayer. And that he has a plan for me.
 
Around the house... the "papers only" hutch and the toiletries closet need organizing.

Today I miss... I don't know. I am so used to missing things sometimes I forget to think about what they are.

I am hoping... for peace, hope, energy, laughter, joy, confidence.

I have been procrastinating... making time to create

One of my favorite things... reading a book in bed under the covers on a cold day.

A few plans for the rest of the week... organize cupboard and closet, mail packages, teach schoo for Spencer, fill out applications, order Math u See, Set up Homeschool blog for Renee, spend some time alone, go on a castle trip, take the boys to movies, say good bye to Robert.

Here is picture to share...

Spencer's 10th Birthday Cake.
He shared his birthday with friends, Cole, Jonah and Josh. It was a great day!

Outside my window... the sun is shining- yeah! It has been weeks and weeks and weeks of rain so the sun and its warmth are a welcomed site.

I am thinking... about how grateful I am to be able to spend the day with my family in the snow. It is something they all enjoy so much. I am grateful for the time and means to make it happen.

From the kitchen... a picnic of sandwiches, hot soup, fruit, veggies, yogurt and chips awaits us!

I am wondering... how I could possibly be cold today- I am wearing 7 layers of clothing. Yet- I know at some point I will be.

I am wearing... snow gear.

I am reading... nothing at the moment. But I am taking the last book of the WWII series I am reading. I am really excited to start it. This series has been eye opening and inspiring.

I am creating... nothing right now but I just finished a sign for Hazel and it is SO cute!

I am praying for... for safety for all of us today. My prayers always intensify when there is snow on the ground.
I am hearing... Spencer talk to me as he types a list of every friend he has ever had!

I am going... to enjoy the day!

I am quoting... a card I got as a gift from Christmas, it says, "Dreams come a size too big, so we have room to grow into them."

My spiritual thoughts include... how totally dependent I am on God for strength. I am reminded daily that without him- I am nothing. I am grateful for a knowledge and testimony that God know me. He understands my weakness and failings and that he is lovingly and willingly stretching out his hands to help me when I ask.

Around the house... the floors are dirty, the bathrooms need cleaning and there is stuff everywhere. Ahhhh- I can hardly stand spending the day playing when there is so much work to be done.

Today I miss... being smaller, leaner, stronger and more flexible. If I were all those things and a little more adventurous I might consider skiing with the rest of the family.

I am hoping... for the energy and patience I need to get through next week.

I have been procrastinating... writing a book called "Hey Naples" about my experiences in Italy.

One of my favorite things... watching my kids do something they really enjoy.

A few plans for the rest of the week... school, goals, seminary, organize, something fun with the boys, PE classes, cooking class, miss Robert (he is traveling), field trip to Benevento. Hum... things don't change much around here.

Here is picture to share...

I took this picture and just love it. Not only because it is Dad and Grandma but because it is Dad and Grandma in Italy! It was really fun to watch them share their time here together.

Outside my window... it is not yet light because the sun just starting to raise.

I am thinking... this is the year my dreams come true.

From the kitchen... there is no activity in my kitchen right now- and I am relishing the nothingness of it!

I am wondering... if I have what it takes to do and be all that I want and need to be.

I am wearing... exercise clothes and man are they comfy.

I am reading... a myriad of books at the moment. Percy Jackson, Wednesday Letters, the Zone- just to name a few.

I am creating... nothing right now but I hope to make cards and sings and boxes in the next week.

I am praying for... the strength to change. For the wisdom to see that I can't do it alone. The humility to seek help. The determination to stick with it even when it is hard.


I am hearing... silence- a nice change after a month of visitors.

I am going... to clean the house today and then prepare for Sunday and for next week.

I am quoting... a card I got as a gift from Christmas, it says, "Dreams come a size too big, so we have room to grow into them."

My spiritual thoughts include... how totally dependent I am on God for strength. I am reminded daily that without him- I am nothing. I am grateful for a knowledge and testimony that God know me. He understands my weakness and failings and that he is lovingly and willingly stretching out his hands to help me when I ask.

Around the house... I would like to prepare the exercise room for all the many workouts I plan to have in it over the next year.


Today I miss... the simplicity of youth.

I am hoping... for greater peace and joy in 2010! I am hoping that this year I find the balance I am seeking.

I have been procrastinating... oh my, do I really have to answer that question?

One of my favorite things... the feeling I get when I successfully do something that it hard for me to do.

A few plans for the rest of the week... school, goals, seminary, organize, something fun with the boys, PE classes, cooking class.

Here is picture to share...

Ross and Me in Verona Italy on January 1st 2010!