Dance Like Nobody's Watching

One of our favorite pastimes this summer has been heading a few blocks downtown to hear local talent play outdoors.  The concerts are free, which is an added bonus, but we just enjoy the atmosphere for an easy and enjoyable date night.

A side street is blocked off, nestling you between brick buildings that bounce the sounds of whatever style of music is offered each Friday night. 

The crowds have been small, the only disappointment, as we wish the community would support small-town efforts more.  But then again, not having to fight a crowd and feeling like you are attending an inclusive concert is also part of what makes it special.

We almost missed this past one, forgetting as it isn't an every week event.  On the way home from the movies, I received a notification reminder so we dropped in at the last minute.  Though I'm ever the planner, there is joy to be had in an impromptu outing.

Singing along with every tune, I began people watching and noticed a curly-headed toddler enjoying the show.  He was clapping and bouncing to the beat, oblivious of his cuteness or the attention he was drawing.  His enthusiasm was infectious and I soon found myself grinning ear to ear.

A bit later, another child a few steps up began to dance.  She twirled and rocked, waved her arms and jumped around happy as can be. 

Neither of these kids paid any mind to the people around them.  They didn't care what other's opinions might be.  They didn't worry if they looked silly or wore the right shirt.  They weren't distracted by anything and were fully present.  They simply found joy IN the moment. 

It was a pleasant reminder of true joy.  Joy unharnessed by any restrictions or rules.  Joy in just being.  We could learn a lot from a child...

Joy Drowning

Yesterday was one of those days. 

Waking up before dawn, to see our son off to work, we realized how nice it was outside.  Like unheard-of-June-nice.  Normally, summer mornings in Kentucky hit your face the moment you open the door.  But yesterday, it was surprisingly pleasant and we wanted to soak it up fully.

Sundays are normally short for us, as that begins Tim's work week.  After church and a nap to prepare for the night shift, we only get a few hours together. 

Taking advantage of the extra time, we opted to load up the boat and enjoy the morning on the water.  The river is my happy place, provided the weather cooperates.  I love to fish but not to sweat!  After we got settled in our spot, I actually felt we'd under-dressed, as it was a tad cool in the shade.  Unlike most boat outings, we began searching for sunny areas to fish.

Calm water, cool breeze, blue skies...the picture-perfect backdrop for our day date. 

Until it wasn't.

I'm terrified of snakes.  Like, change the channel if one is on tv, make a U-turn if one is the road, goosebump shivering kind of fear.  Years and years ago when we were dating (our first fishing date), a snake snuck into the car while we were unpacking.  On the ride home, what I first thought was a rolling Moutain Dew bottle, began to slither up between my legs.  Tim, thinking it was a bee (to which is he allergic), stopped the car, got out and left me inside!  Yes, I still married him anyway...he did eventually come to my rescue.

So anyway, since that day snakes and I are not friends.  And the boat, though I love it, causes me to see more snakes than I prefer.  A few years ago, we were boating and Tim says, "Heather, don't move."  Well, this sends me into a state of panic and I wind up face-planted in the bottom of the boat.  Since then he's learned better ways of warning me and, as long as I see them first and can keep my distance, I am somewhat ok.  Honestly, the past couple years the boys have been surprised at my calm composure.  In fact, I'd gotten so comfortable I could now turn my back to the water while fishing.

Which was the case yesterday, when I had my back at the bow of the boat, fishing off to my left.  Noticing movement at the side, my mouth caught up with my brain in time to say, "Snake!" as I stood.

Tim paused for a moment, probably wondering how I would react.  I stayed relatively calm until it started inching its way in what appeared to be an attempt to enter our boat.  Whacking the water with my pole, in an effort to scare it away only made it mad....or more curious.  It went under and back out, circling our boat and taunting me.  And then Tim shot it. 

Chair now turned around to the water, pole down, I was a bit unsettled.  My eyes kept scanning the water, heart racing each time a tree limb floated by.  Try as I may to shake the fear, it had returned with a vengeance.  Between that and the impending weather, we opted to turn in early.

On our way back, I mentioned to Tim that he needed to hit a bank for a potty break before we reached the boat dock (which no bathhouse exists).  Whether it was my nerves or lack of balance from a weak left side, I was more unsteady than usual as I raised up to prepare for a rest stop.  Wobbling, I could quickly tell I was about to go head first into the river.

What happened next was in slow-motion, both for me and hubby witnessing the ordeal.  Trying to catch my balance, I grabbed everything I could find, including my chair, which collapsed in the commotion.  Somehow, that process shot my phone out of the chair, over our heads, and into the river.  Clinging onto the side I watched my pink wallet case plop and sink out of reach. 

Jesus may have walked on water but listening to the church podcast on my phone, didn't keep it from sinking!

At this point, I'm sobbing, more from the shock of everything but also because the pain of my fall now caught up with me.  Somehow in trying not to fall, I probably hurt myself more.  Something hit my shin, of course in the leg I already have damage to, and I'm bruised all over.  But at this point, the scare of the snake, injury, and the realization that not just my phone but every card and ID I own is in the bottom of the river, broke me.

The only good that came from the escapade is that we made it back to the bank and into the truck just before a torrential storm hit.  Well, and that we'll have a funny story to share all summer.

I would include some great photos of Tim and me, the beautiful river and landscapes, as well as some awesome up-close pics I captured of a dragonfly who rested on my leg but, you know, they are a little wet...and lost!  Instead, I'll drop one that I posted that morning before the dunking. 

Yes, I get the irony.

Oh, and if you had my number, could you text me your name?  

Losing my contacts from the past decade has been rough...

but, it coulda been worse and there's always JOY to be found!

May Days

Goodness...May is nearly over and I realized there's not been a single joyful post this month!

This season is historically busy but when you have a graduating teen, it certainly adds to the chaos.  My calendar looks like an angry toddler played with an Etch-A-Sketch.

And although there have been many days I don't know if I'm coming or going, May has been full of joys.  However, given the busyness of my schedule, a blog-o-photos will have to do for now.

May means sunshine (and extra doses) so we dusted off the deck and have enjoyed our mornings and evenings there.  Most days Tim gets home just before I leave but we manage to sneak in a mini coffee date, serenaded by the birds.

My baby went to senior prom with his girl.  They had a magical night and allowed me to sneak in a few pics before they left.  This is one of my faves...

That same weekend was my sweet Grandma's 89th birthday.  She was surprised by many guests over the course of several days.  Seeing her smile always brings me joy.

I promise she was happy, we were just standing 

in her way of Cheddar's with all our pics!  tee hee

With all the formal dates on the calendar, Noah and I finally got some "mom & me" time, even if it was to try on dress shirts and pants.  I paid him in sushi after.  He's on the cusp of being all grown up so I soak up every moment with him I can get.  In the end, I know we've done our part to raise him right and the rest is up to him and God.  He sent me this pic last week out of the blue...knowing that he stops to take in the beauty of the day, assures me they've got this.

Like mother, like son.  In more ways than one...

I literally pulled off the side of the road to take in this view.

And Tim captured this over the weekend...

My flowers are starting to bloom, which makes me smile daily.

Tim's working on the boat, with hopes we're floating by Friday.

I've started classes and excited about the potential it has for our future.

Sunday, Mother's Day, was a bittersweet, but beautiful day.

Loved having my momma beside me in church, 

as well as other family who don't normally come.

Tim went out of his way to make me feel special and loved.

Noah cooked an amazing dinner.

And Austin, as always, sent me hugs and hellos.

All in all, May has been overflowing with joys.

Blessed beyond measure.

Here's hoping I can pause to catch up more with you soon!

Friday Funnies

Laughter is good medicine and I sure got several doses today. 

In fact, I'm still smiling from the chuckles I've had. Of course, being a Friday makes it good from the start.  Due to the long hours I work, most Fridays are free for me.  And a "free day off" is always sweet.

This morning, Tim and I lingered at the table going through the mail.  Exciting life we live, I know.  Most envelopes were never even opened but when coming across a small bubble wrapped package, I paused.

"Surely not," I chuckled. 

A couple weeks ago I ordered two portable stools, different styles.  For whatever reason, one shipped to the store and one was being mailed.  I figured it would come UPS.  And I'm not sure why I thought a 6x8 envelope would contain my long-awaited chair but I knew it was the only shipment we were expecting. 

As I pulled out the bag, laughter ensued.  Mine in disbelief, Tim's was rolling in the floor at his poor wife's expense.

This was folded in a bag smaller than most tiny umbrellas.  In ordering it, I searched for "heavy duty, portable, stool".  Obviously, I did not pay close attention to the specs on height but it stated that it was "heavy duty" and could hold 225 lbs!

I'm not sure if this is a 225-pound brick.  Or if the person is supposed to stand on one foot?  But I seriously don't understand how they expect a normal behind to fit in/on this thing.  Tim attempted it and, between our snorts and giggles, I wondered how I'd explain to 911 when a tiny stool crashed and entered his rear.  Thankfully, he survived.

But I won't live this down for some time...

Then it was off to my Aunt's to spend time with her, as she turns the big 6-0 tomorrow.  We had plans to see a movie (I Can Only Imagine) but when I arrived she had a little-unexpected guest.  My nephew just turned three and though he loves anything on the TV we opted for a more animated show to hold his attention. 

The movie was cute but what I enjoyed most were his expressions in the experience.  And my aunt's in watching him.  This was his first movie theatre excursion and he was full of questions and curiosity, as any toddler is at this age.

"Where is the big TV?!" he squeaks, looking out both windows as we near the entrance.

"Popcorn! ...Hey, that's mine."

"There's crumbs on the floor," swooping to retrieve.

"That's not very nice," when a gnome knocked another in the head.

But the cutest moment was during the previews.  As he'd never been to a theatre before -and being a toddler, he didn't quite understand the concept of whispering.  After a trailer for the new Grinch movie, he turned to my aunt and stated, "That looks like YOU!"

We snickered on both sides of the cutie, trying to muffle our humor.  We're still unsure if he thinks she is grumpy, green or because she has spiky hair.  I'm sure it was just what she wanted for her birthday! 

LYMTUK, Bec

Day 5: Joy on a Weekday

Joy on a holiday weekend is a somewhat easy challenge.  Joy on an ordinary weekday though?
That can be a bit harder to find...and share.

Today was a "Monday" even though it was really a Tuesday.  Just an average day of work and life.  A bit busier than most since I crunched two days worth of work into one.

My joy came in small doses scattered throughout the day.

Joy from a wake-up call by hubby.  Hearing about his workday and a special treat he found for me.

Joy from a morning devotion in a workbook that continues to speak and move me.  (Not a Fan)

Joy from having essential oils to start my day, help my health and ease my pains naturally.

Joy from walking through misty rain on a foggy July morning.

Joy from hearing success stories from parents I work with weekly and seeing their babies thriving and growing.

Joy from a mini lunch break with Noah eating tacos and watching Bob's Burgers.

Joy from picking up our doggies from the sitter and seeing their excitement in being home.

Joy from "me time" to unwind, relax and write as I shake off the day in this empty house.

Thankful for every day joys.

Day 2: Simple Saturdays

Announce you're on the search for joy and the world will sure try and suck it out of ya!

I've been hit with a sprinkling of unsettling news today and, though it caused some heartache, I'm determined to push ahead.  In situations like these the most you can do is pray, hope for the best, and leave it at God's feet.  Whatever will be, will be...

Today's joys have come from a simple Saturday.  Nothing special, except that I've spent it with my two favorite guys.

I woke rested, grateful to have hubby back in bed beside me.  And he greeted me with a steaming cup of creamy coffee to say good morning.

We ventured out for the Farmer's Market and breakfast, but I think most of the farmers must've taken a holiday!  Noah was desperate for more local honey, a treat he's become accustomed to after stealing mom's stash.  (It's healthy so I'll share, I guess!)  But she was one of many vendors not present so we drove on to breakfast.  Our plans were to try out a new catfish place only to find they weren't open.

I know, you're thinking catfish for breakfast?!  

But they'd announced on Facebook a 2.99 special starting in July.  And catfish isn't included!  I saw the date wrong though, as they don't begin until Tuesday.  Plan B was heading to another familiar favorite.  Odd as the 'catch of the day' might be with eggs and biscuits, our boy did polish off a piece of peanut butter pie at the end of our meal.

Next on our agenda, between errands, was the annual visit to the firework tent.

I'm only a fan of fireworks from a distance, and prefer to watch them in the eyes of a child more than the sky, but my guys love them.  They loaded up on bottle rockets, firecrackers, sparklers and those ear-shattering boom ones that sound more like a war zone than a holiday celebration.  But they're excited to have kiddos over tonight to watch them.  Or rather, they're probably most excited about setting them off.  Boys...

The rest of our afternoon has been a mix of productivity and laziness.  We've reclined and rested, laughed and wrestled, and just enjoyed being together.

Hubby is napping now, feet high in a recliner.  I'm about to sneak off and dunk mine in a pedi-spa.  And my boy is getting ready for work.  It seemed like the perfect opportunity to jump online and post about today's joy.

Sometimes it doesn't have to be big or anything special to be joy-filled.  Sometimes the simplest of moments and togetherness can be filled with joy just because of who you share it with.

Hope you're enjoying your Saturday too!

31 days of JOY

July marks the 6th anniversary for this little blog.  Wow!

I can vividly recall being bolted from bed in the middle of the night to begin this journey.  Never would I have imagined, as I began typing then, where it would take me.  Or how much this blog would change me.  Save me, really.

At the time, our family felt void of joy and the thought of writing about it daily was scary.  What if I couldn't find joy every day?

But God told me to search for it and I obeyed.  As always, He delivered.

What I learned is that joy cannot be present without God.  It has very little to do with circumstances and everything to do with attitude.  Which explains how despite the pain I felt in losing my son, I could still search and find joy.  Every day.

In the beginning, I challenged myself to write about it daily.  That simple exercise forever changed me.  Much like the gratitude challenge I do every Thanksgiving, acknowledging each day's blessings can only ever bring good.  Documenting it, in this virtual joy journal, has truly been therapy.  

But as I realized a few days ago, I've slacked in this exercise.  "Life" has gotten in the way so I'm bringing back the challenge to celebrate our 6th year together.

31 days of JOY!

The anticipation for today's joy was great.  I would say that is what kept me up all night, but instead it was a belly ache.  The down side is it caused me to miss my weekly morning Bible study.  The up side is I finished the last season of Gilmore Girls.  Yes, I cried.

Anyhow, I tumbled out of bed much later than planned and somewhat grumpy to start my first joyful day of July.  I'd taken vacation time for an extended weekend and was having a pity party that it might be spent ill.

As I doctored myself with essential oils and settled into the living room, the door knob jingled.

My head went through the possibilities, clearly it was someone I knew (I hoped) since they intended to walk right in without knocking.  There's only a handful of people in our family that do so.  But I had extra security latches on, as hubby was away all week traveling for work.

Ross, our dog, and I both realized who it was at the same time.  Hubby was home early!  We raced each other to the door and fought for hugs.  Knowing I would worry while he drove home from little sleep and lots of overtime, he decided to skip the nap and surprise me.  What a welcome one it was!

As he settled in to catch up on some sleep, Noah finally stirred awake and was ready for our weekly Friday outing.  Though my tummy was still not 100% ready for adventure, we set out anyway.  There's only so many Fridays left in the summer after all.

We opted to include Mom on our trip, since it was her birthday weekend.  And because I knew our location was one she'd never been but always wanted to try.  Noah couldn't believe she'd never experienced a burger from a nearby Dairy Freeze.

"How has she lived this long and not ever had one!" he exclaimed.

He then smiles at thinking how many firsts he's helped her experience this week.  A few days prior he'd taken her out for a Mamaw lunch, with him in the driver's seat.  She didn't know anything of the agenda and was just along for the ride.  They had a really good time together, so he was excited for the fun to continue.

Along the way, I remembered her messaging this week about her worry ring breaking.  A local artist makes them, each one unique, with tiny beads that roll when you touch them.  The idea is that when you find yourself worrying, you can gently roll the beads and say a prayer.  (Kind of like a rosary for your fingers, although we're not Catholic.)  But it brought mom comfort so I knew we needed to get her another.  As we drove to pick her up, we devised a plan.

Arriving at the burger joint, mom is distracted by the menu options and picking on me for wearing a holey tshirt.  It's my longest living shirt, well over 20 years old, and has become quite thread-bare.  I wear it as a PJ top and didn't think about having it on, because initially I'd had no plans of getting out of the car.  But with the weather nice and mom along for the meal, we'd opted to eat outside at their picnic spot.  The friendly bickering was enough for me to pass off her gift to Noah for the presentation.

As he brings our burgers and shakes, mom spies the ring attached to her straw.  I wish that we'd taken a photo of her expression because it was priceless.  She was speechless, touched and tickled.  It's one milkshake she'll always remember.  And an impromptu birthday excursion that brought me a lot of joy sharing it with her.

Joy Journey for July

Perusing through my blog made me realize how much I've slacked in writing.  And I miss pouring out my thoughts over the keyboard.

Yet I wonder, am I also missing joy?

On the sidebar of my blog is a handy view of all my past posts through the years.  A quick glance can see a steady decline.  My first year I wrote nearly 150 posts and I didn't even start it until July.  The next year was close to 200.  Every year since I've wrote less and less.  2015 was my lowest, not even clearing a post a week.  No surprise since it was an extremely difficult year for us.

But then again, difficult, hard to find joy was what led me to creating this blog!  There's been no other low darker and deeper than losing Austin.  If I could summon joy in the midst of that pain and write, then there should be no excuse now.

When I first began this blog, I challenged myself to find the joy in every day and write about it.  So for the rest of 2010 that is what I did.  And it forever changed me.

With the 6th anniversary of this blog approaching, what better way to celebrate than to re-challenge myself.  Some posts may be short and sweet but I'm going to do my best to write every single day of July.

I hope you will join me!

Grateful & Kind

Maybe it is because I'm getting older but time seems be passing so quickly lately.  I can sit and almost watch it slip away.  And no matter how much you will it to slow, there is no stopping the ticking of the clock or ending of another day.

It's already the middle of November.  

The busyness of the holidays will be among us and, before you know it, another year gone.  

Pausing to be thankful is how I spend this month.  Not just on Thanksgiving but every day of the month.  I started practicing this the year after losing my son.  It was impossible to imagine the holidays without him so this exercise helped me focus on the good that still remained.  I've continued doing it because truly it's how I try to live every single day.

Gratitude = Joy.  This I have learned.

This November has me standing on my head at times searching for joy.  In what is the most difficult of months for us, we've endured some extra heartache.  Watching those you love suffering is one of the deepest pains, especially when there's nothing you can do to fix it.

In the midst of it, I'm aware that Satan would love nothing more than for this girl to stop.  Cease sharing.  To end the finding of joy.  But that just makes me want to do it more.

Since I was a child, if you told me I couldn't achieve something, it just fueled me to prove you wrong.  Of course, in this case, I know there's a bigger power on my side.  And through Him, I can do all things...most especially find JOY!

Yesterday I hear it was World Kindness Day and then I see devastating news for Paris.  In a much bigger scale, it magnifies that sometimes there is nothing you can do in the chaos and pain, except keep moving forward.  PRAY.

And not stop.

Our annual RAK project is approaching.  I prefer focusing on the day of my son's death with a positive, because how else can you celebrate such an anniversary.  Instead of dwelling on something we can't change, we remember our son and the way he lived his life - helping others.  Doing random acts of kindness is a small way to keep his sweet spirit with us on the day we miss him most.

November 29, if you'd like to join us.  Although I encourage you to do a RAK whenever it feels right, whether in November, December - or even July!

Here are some of my favorite RAK moments from the past, if you'd like to read...

Hidden Shopping Spree

Free Drinks

Love in a Shoebox

Kindness Collected

Backpacks

Last year was the first year we received messages after our reverse shopping spree.  

Six years may have passed but I was having an especially rough weekend remembering.

These came at just the needed moments.  Hugs from above...

If you do a RAK in memory of Austin, we love hearing about them.  

Just add to the comments below.

It is Well

I left my dr's office on a high last Wednesday.  It was the first time I'd been there in a year, since my last physical.  The scale showed a lower number (yay, me!) and I had nothing to complain about.  In fact, the doctor and I just sat there chatting about loving life.  What a treat!

That in itself was worth throwing a party.  For I can't remember a year in the past decade that I didn't frequent the doctor on multiple occasions.  There truly is something to be said for reducing your stress and how it affects your health.  Although more exposed in my current job to illnesses, I'm sick way less often.

However, despite sanitizing and upping my immune boost, I left my wellness visit with an unknown illness.  Isn't that ironic?  The next day a tickle in my throat and fatigue was a tapping on my shoulder.  Try as I might to ignore it, by Friday, I was in the bed with a migraine.

So not the way I planned to spend my afternoon off.  Or weekend.

Just about everything I had planned was pretty much thrown out the window.  That sunshiny window of spring beckoned me from my bed.  Boxes still surrounded all the rooms of my house and the living room begged to be put back together.  My closet still hasn't been swapped out for the season.  And my spring cleaning list hasn't been completely checked off.

The goal was to use my Friday afternoon to knock a bunch of it out and surprise the family.  Instead they got the shock of finding me bundled up on my couch when they arrived home.

Normally, I would love a do-nothing weekend.  Cuddling up on the couch is one of my favorite ways to spend the day.  But not when I had other plans.  Sadness.

And isn't that just how it often goes?  It's easy to never be satisfied with our current situation.  To long for something else.  To spend so much time complaining or wishing that we end up missing the blessings that are there.

Despite the fact that my ear throbbed continually and my throat still feels like I swallowed thumbtacks, there were many good and simple joyful morsels to be had.  Gladly, I'll count my blessings...

I'm thankful for family that pitched in and helped mom when she was down.  Tim and the kids put the house back together in record time.  (A double date fishing at the lake may have put the pep in our teens' steps though!)  Hubby gladly went shopping for me and went down the girly aisle without hesitation.  Love him!  Even my doggies were extra snuggly, sensing I didn't feel well.

Grateful for a collection of essential oils to help ease what ails me.  Whether soothing my throat or stopping my cough, it's been a blessing to have them.  Messages from friends and family wishing me well from missing church were a sweet surprise.  Glad our church offers a podcast!

I'm fighting sleep deprivation from the coughing spouts and don't recall everything from the weekend, but last night when my son and I were giggling for no apparent reason, I remember lifting up thanks in the very moment.  It physically hurt to laugh, which just made nothing even funnier.

And today, I'm thankful for not needing many sick days the past year as I need two days off to recuperate from this nasty bug!  Yes, it stinks to suffer through a virus, but no matter how bad I feel, it is always well, well within my soul.

Joy in...Laundry?

I had another unexpected day off due to the snow today.  In the past, a snow day still meant a work day, as I could conduct business from the house.  Now, being that I do home visitation, it is a little difficult to conduct via my couch!

Though the comforts of my living room, complete with a fireplace and a never-ending queue on Netflix beckoned me, so did the growing piles of laundry at the foot of my bed.  After about the tenth towel folded, I sighed.

This was such a boring way to spend a vacation day.  

And then a memory flashed of about a decade ago, when I'd give just about anything for the ability to do something as simple as laundry.

I recalled my recovery from our motorcycle wreck and how, once out of ICU and recovering at home, I'd push a laundry basket with my walker to the utility room.  In the evening, as hubby arrived home, he give me a shake of his head and a "LeAnn...." letting me know of his disapproval.  But he understood my restlessness of a long recovery, for he wasn't many weeks ahead of me.

Each day I'd spend all my energy doing something - anything to make it easier on him.  And I was grateful for it.  Happiness in putting a casserole in the oven.  Contentment in washing a load of dishes.  Joy in folding laundry. Even if it meant the rest of the day would be spent in bed from the effort.  I was thankful for the task and the ability to do it because it meant I was still here, with and for my family.

So my sigh was quickly sucked back in today.  How quickly we forget....
And I smiled with the mating of each and every one of those patience-testing socks!

Wherever life finds you today, I hope you can find joy in it too.

Tuesday Tidbits

Ever had a day where you just smile on the inside?
Where...you can't quite say why, but it is just a good-good day?

That's been the case round' here lately.

This afternoon, windows down and radio on high, hair blowin' through the breeze, I looked up at the pale blue sky and fluffy white clouds and smiled at God.  Gratitude for the simpleness, the good, the joy, for no reason other than it was here and I was glad.

I love days like that.  When you've had your share of rainy days, sunshine soothes the soul!

And I'm not talking the yellow ball in the sky here, folks, although it has been amazingly nice for July.
Like uncommonly mild temps for this time of year.  In fact, last night as we were lingering outside on the deck, I had to pull a blanket over my legs.  Crazy to be cold in the middle of summer!

All the worries of the world just melt away here!

It was just so nice to sit outside on a July night and not be dripping in sweat.  Most of the summer, you'll usually find me retreating indoors.  I'm a wimp, I admit it.  My hubby knows I'm usually only interested in fishing at the start and end of the season.  Because this chick just doesn't do sweaty.  It doesn't agree with my personality.  So to find autumn-like weather in what should be sweltering summer puts this girl in a pretty good mood.

But it's not the weather that has me smiling.

It's the plateau.


Life is full of valleys and mountains.  Peaks and lows.  Although I do rather enjoy the highs, I'm even more content when there is a lull.  No excitement, no flash.  I'll take good ole' routine any day.

Here's a few of my favorite simple moments this month that have brought me joy...

Black Cherry and Chocolate snow cones.  Yum!

Austin's memorial tree has bloomed beautifully for his birthday month.

The kids have actually been requesting "tech free" and asked to play games instead.  Love!

And we welcomed a new fur baby into our home.
Meet Dewey "Roscoe" Blair.  He's so happy he smiles!

Oh, Happy Day!

What makes you happy?

If you were to think back through the course of your day, what moments stood out?  What made you smile? What brought you JOY?

Can you find happiness in every day?

What about for 100 days?

Focusing on the joy of each day is what inspired this blog, so I was elated to see a similar challenge in my news feed today.  The test - to simply post a photo of something every day for 100 days that makes you happy.

Of course I accepted!

You can follow my photos here or here, if you aren't already secretly stalking me.  But, I'd love to see you get involved too.  You can choose any outlet to post your 100 days of pictures or you can keep it private.  If you post, be sure to include the #100happydays to join in the joyful fun.  And if you take the challenge, I'd love to hear from you.  (There's a handy little comment box at the bottom of all these posts)

Thinking of "100 days" takes me back to my boys in elementary school.  Did yours ever celebrate the 100th day of school?  I remember so many last minute, "Mom! I need a white T-shirt tonight so I can make a 100 days shirt!"  And the race to Wal-Mart and raiding of the craft bucket and pantry to complete.  I'm pretty sure the glue gunned Fruit Loops spelling out 1-0-0 never all survived the trip to school.  But, oh, the memories of making them.

If I could photograph the flashbacks of my mind, I'd include that as a #100happydays pic.  Guess that's a smile I'll keep tucked in my heart - and a reason to seek out another joy to share!

Hodgepodge Joy

Mini moments of JOY this week...

Driving in the rain to Bowling Green and taking in the beauty of the changing trees.  Against the raindrops, the landscape appeared like a life-size watercolor, still wet from the artist's brush.

Lunch with my momma, sister, and the sweetest itty baby I know.

An impromptu-last-minute-oh-yea-I-forgot-school-project at the end of a long work day.  Rushing to the store before they closed.  Tina and I spying the perfect outfit for her zombie costume at just the right moment.  Trying it on as they shut off lights and begin their close down routine.  Watching the glee and excitement from her and she jumped to the car, in the car, and at the house from our find.

A beautiful hunter's moon against a field of cornstalks.

Taking advantage of in between taxi services for our kiddos to enjoy a mini date downtown.  Strolling through the food booths.  Making two loops to decide on our orders.  Dinner for less than $10!  Tunes and people watching from a park bench. 

yellow mums.

Two new to us recipes that were big successes.  "Repeat worthy" as the family says. 
Here's one of them. You're welcome.

Laughing beyond comprehension over nothing at all with my boy.  Uncontrollable.  Side splitting.
Oh, the joy to see him smile...

Seeing all the littles at the park.  Beautiful fall weather.  Slides, giggles, and ice cream.

Lifegroup at the barn.  First bonfire of the season.  Friendships.

*For those of you who don't follow me on Facebook, yes, I yet again failed to post a FF last week.  I posted a rewind favorite for my FB friends but you can walk down memory lane anytime here.

JOY in every day

Finding JOY in every day are the first words you see upon opening my blog. It was the concept and inspiration for starting this journey. It is what drives every post. And it is what brought me out of bed five years ago when I was in my deepest, darkest days of grief from losing Austin.

Yet, I've noticed I've been a little void of joy these past several weeks. I've let troubles of this world overcome the ultimate joy I know.

In my quest to start this year anew, I'm getting back to basics. Not just finding it, but reveling in the joy.

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Posting Friday I noticed a theme. So far this month the only time I've consistently written has been for my "Faithful Friday" series. That's been the case for a large percentage of my posts the past few months. But there's joy to be found on more than just Fridays.

So where else has there been joy this past week?

Celebrating my niece's 18th birthday and feeling her joy in being with siblings & family on her special day. An extra worship opportunity last Sunday night, as our praise band played at a local snow cone shop. Outdoors...summertime...church family & great music. Watching Tim feel baby Rae kick from my sister's belly. Schools days saw the return of Rose & Thorn. The bonus of beginning the day in scripture with the kids, each of them reading a daily verse. Grounding our morning with family prayer before parting to start our days. Unlikely, beautiful fall-like temperatures made for some amazing weather. Drawing from the peace my windchimes brought off the back deck. Two new recipes tried and loved. Texts from my aunt. Snuggle time with Noah in his big comfy bed. Two kids wanting so desperately not to miss Wed night youth made for juggling of rides and schedules, due to a painful rib, but it reminded me of a patient husband and willing friends ready to step in. Negative test results. Thank you, Jesus. A special friend, who miles may seperate, but is always there. Being held in prayer and having the blessing of praying for others. Lunch with my mom & little sis. Special, heartfelt words from volunteers and friends. Dad coming through surgery and going home. Laughing so much it hurts (which isn't hard to do these days!) Tech free family time. Pastel sunsets. Farmer's Market. Hearing Tina's excited recap of a Christian concert with friends. Time with God.

And those are just what this broken old body can quickly recall. May I start this week pausing in every little joy, praising him for the moments, and counting my blessings along the way.

Joyful wishes for your week ahead...

P.S. Sorry for the sloppy formatting and photo. Blogger is not playing nice again...but I'm not letting steal it my JOY!

Joyful Tidbits

Stress. 
That ugly word that scratches its way into life, despite how much you push it away.
Or pray it away.

Sometimes life is just stressful.  When it's out of your hands, beyond your control.
And you admit you're weak enough to still worry, even after giving it to God.
That kind of stress can really mess up your day.

But, it can't take away the joy.  Joy is still ever-present. 
If you look for it in the big and the small.  If you savor it when it shows.

Sometimes it's the little things...


heart sigh...Tim and his great-nephew, Liam

Sometimes it's the every day things...

Sometimes it's the simple, beautiful things....

And just thankful for the "things" that really aren't things at all.

Praising Him through this storm.  This temporary storm...

Joy comes in the morning.

I woke up a bit aggravated this morning, which is never a very good way to start the day.

Hubby got called out at 3:30 this morning for a wreck that his help was later cancelled.  Normally I can block his pages out.  I'll put myself into almost a coma-like state, many times not even knowing he's left for a run until the next day.  I do this out of necessity, as there's an invisible switch inside of me, that once turned on, I'm wide awake.  No matter the hour or the need for more sleep, it just won't happen. 

Today would be example A.

Tim rolled back in a little after 4:00 and for the next 45 minutes I really tried to go back to sleep.  I tossed.  I turned.  I stretched.  I sighed.  And then, exasperated, I stomped to the living room.

It wasn't Tim's fault.  He didn't set the pager off, but I certainly directed my frustration to him when announcing I was getting up to stay.

Mumbling and grumbling, God nudged me that this might be a good opportunity to read His word. 

And so I did.  And soon, irritation turned to joy.

As the dark faded into light and the world began to stretch awake, I was gifted with the songs of the many birds around our home.  Many of them I know to be Mama birds, protecting the handful of nests I've spied in our yard.  (There's itty babies in the surprise nest from a previous post.  I hope to sneak pics soon!)

I was blessed by the peace that is the calm, quiet start of a new day.

There was the gift of time to prepare the kids a real, not from a box or frozen breakfast.  Hopefully this will warm their bellies and fuel their minds in preparation for the week of testing they have.

And I have the opportunity to apologize to dear hubby by taking him a steamy cup of coffee in a bit and waking him with a gentler mood than I last left him.

Simple, unexpected joys.  Thank you, God.


Oh and there's more...

This was actually yesterday afternoon's gift but I wanted to share.

Though it was misting rain, as it had all weekend, I was able to enjoy getting my hands dirty by planting happy little flowers in my window boxes.  It's what I call dirt therapy.  These are sure to brighten my every day and bring a smile as I come and go this season. 

It is well, it is well, it is well within my soul... 

From a Church Pew

There's a reason I don't normally sit on the back row at church.  Unlike the popular expression, I'm more of a front-to-middle row Baptist.

I'm too distracted from the back.  There's so much activity in a church service - and not just from the pulpit!  Being a people watcher by nature, this does not help me pay attention to the message.

Today, I was saved by the fact that I attended both worship services.  We left for Sunday school this morning but after about two minutes I could tell from Tim's face he would not survive four hours.  He's such a trooper and would never complain, never ask to go home early; yet he did quickly take me up on my offer to go next door and sit through just the early service.  This allowed me to take him home, as the kids were coming out from their lessons, and get back to them in time for the second service.  Because they picked the pew - and the fact that we had a packed house - we were on the last row.

I let this excuse my lack of total attention, as I perused the crowd.  There were adorable babies I made silly faces and smiled at... a few elbows from wives keeping hubbies alert... stern looks from parents to keep children in line...inspired expressions from those touched by the message.  And one particular duo that brought me joy and a reminder of being a wooden pew as a small child.

Seeing a little girl sitting with her grandmother, notebook in hand, she would doodle and write, looking up with a smile and proudly showing her next masterpiece.  Each time her grandmother would nod in approval, smiling back with a hug or pat on the leg.  This transported me some thirty-odd years to a little church I grew up in, side by side with my Grandma, pearls and sweet perfume.

We actually were near the back row.  Right hand side, second row from the back, by the window was our seat.  I remember the feel of the dark brown pew, solid wood under my legs, as it stuck to whatever skin my cotton dress didn't cover.  Precious Moments Bible in my lap, I would mimic and copy Grandma's movement, as she turned to the passage from which Grandpa drew inspiration for his sermon.  If I needed a distraction, I knew Grandma's purse provided entertainment, as it always contained a good supply of gum or candy. 

Occasionally, she'd allow me to doodle on scratch paper, although it wasn't nearly as fun as when I'd venture to the other side of the church to sit with my Aunt Becky.  She had mini Snoopy colored pencils and itty bitty paper to match.  Plus, I got to watch her play the piano with a the close seating her spot allowed.  With all the activity, one might think I didn't soak up much of the sermon, but I always listened to my Grandpa.  I loved to watch him in the pulpit, his passion and compassion pouring from his kind face and loving smile.

So many memories, from a simple glance across the church today.  Blessed to have those moments, the faith foundation given from my grandparents, and the joy of remembering.

And yet somewhat distracted, thankful for the message of today's sermon...and the added blessing of hearing it twice!

Savoring September

Part of me can hardly believe September is already here.  It seems like the month is nearly half over and I find myself grabbing both sides of the calendar and holding on. 

This is the start of my favorite time of the year, followed of course by the most difficult part of the year.  Avoiding November, I tend to focus strongly on every tiny morsel of joy that comes my way.
Make the most of the moments you love.

This weekend was filled with some pretty sweet ones...

Sleeping with the windows open

and waking to misty rain.

Between the crickets at night and the

clean scent of dewy morning air...Ahhh!

The start of fall festivals!!

We took in two this past weekend

- a new and an old, filled with

Carnival food

Free Music

Arts & Crafts

Did I mention the food!? 

Deep Fried Oreos...Loaded Pork Nachos....Sweet Tea

 Oh, My!

Insert "Awwwww" here

Meeting (and holding) our great-nephew, Liam Jude

My arm went numb from holding him but who really cares...

and oh, how I wish you could bottle that new sweet baby scent!

Church

Blessed to be able to go back.  How I've missed worship.

So thankful to have Tim beside me.

He probably didn't really feel like it,

but we returned again that night

for BBQ, friends and fireworks.

Salted Caramel Gelato.

My first gelato

and I must say,

if salted caramel is the only

gelato I ever get to try,

how lucky am I!

And then this happy little box

was waiting on my doorstep

as I arrived home.

My Starbucks gift pack from the

Big, Bad Back to School Giveway

I won had arrived!

...Just in time for Pumpkin Spice Latte season.

Mmm...helps me savor September even more.

What's your favorite part of this season?



Tuesday Tidbits

I'm sure Tim would adamantly disagree but time, when you're caring for someone, often rushes by.  Between caring for, keeping company, cleaning, cooking and keeping track of his medicine schedule, the hours in a day don't seem to stick around long.

Whenever I catch him napping, that's my opportunity to get household needs done.  It doesn't take much to scare me when it comes to infection, with our history, so I'm extra OCD in cleaning any area Tim may be.  And yes, I vacuum and sanitize his recliner regularly.  Today will be spent doing an extra scrub, as the dressing comes off tomorrow.  Knowing his wound will be "somewhat exposed" just adds to my anxiety.

I try to get my busy list done while he's at rest, so that when he's awake, we can spend time together.  Distraction conquers boredom. 

Yesterday his pain subsided long enough to set him up at the dining room table for a quick game of Sequence.  His restlessness and shifting reminded me of the 30 minute rule so we never got to break our tie.  Maybe today.

He felt well enough (or pretended at least) to allow us to get out and drop the kids off at church.   Thankfully the bus offered to deliver them to our door later that evening.  They enjoyed having a break to go watch back to back soccer games and stop for an Island Burger and shake.  I could tell Tim was pining for cheese balls but knew the drive would be way more than he could handle.  Future road trip tucked away.

Tim was worried about the drink machines at the station and I appeased him with a stop so that I could restock.  Lugging those cases and scrubbing the kitchen floor counted as my exercise for the day!  Though I'd hoped a firefighter would happen by while we were there, the parking lot remained empty.  I know he misses them.

Later that evening, the heat seemed to diminish and a painted sky called us from the house.  Walking is good for him, as his pain permits.  We shuffled softly, in pjs and house shoes, along the front of our driveway.  Hand in hand we lazily walked with the doggies, enjoying the close of the day.

Sequence and an afternoon stroll.  Simple.  Sweet.  Joyful.
And grateful to do it again today.