Slamming Doors

Door slamming is like an exclamation point. Isn't that true? A slammed door is an act of making sure everyone understands your frustration or anger. We've instructed the kids to not slam the doors, mainly because of all the little fingers that could be in the way. Often it is accidental, excitedly running outside to play and not paying attention. But also in our house right now, that dramatic exit belongs to my 6-year-old son. He will get upset for a myriad of reasons, but I notice it's mostly when he's misunderstood. This really irritates me, and I want to focus on the slam rather than his feelings or what he is upset with. I am realizing that it is OK to wait, let us both calm down, then approach his closed door and ask to talk. Responding, and not reacting, is such a test in patience!

Last Week....

We've been very busy lately, more than usual. Hoping to finish school up with the older three; we are ready for a break! The weather has been wonderful and they have been spending lots of time outdoors. 

4-year-old graduating from Pre-K at a local church. He will be joining the others at home next fall!

Proud big brother!

New billy goat at papa's ~ appropriately named "Darth" by our biggest Star Wars fan

Aren't they pretty?!! I'm bummed that in our new neighborhood we will not be allowed to have chickens :( 

Our roses are busting with flowers

Funny photo op of our cat and the cat statue

Bike parade on the last day of school

Precious 18-month-old

Four baseball games this week with the 6-year-old, only two played due to rain

Four soccer games played in an end-of-season tournament with the 13-year-old

She did well!

End-of-year dance recital for the 11-year-old. This was jazz.

Ballet

And tap.

A little slower this week. We have a tonsillectomy scheduled so that will be the main focus for us!

Do You?

It's polite to RSVP. No, this is not NEW news. But whyyyyyyyyyyyyy are we not RSVPing, like we should, ladies???? Truly, it is rude to not RSVP in a timely manner. If you wait until the last minute, you're really saying, "I'm going to wait and if nothing better comes along, then I'll go." We cannot do this and think that we are being respectful. Here's the etiquette rule: When we receive an invitation to an event, we should make every effort to respond within three days and let the host know whether we can or cannot attend. This only requires us to look at our calendar and see if we already have an obligation. Once we confirm that we are going, WE MUST KEEP OUR COMMITMENT, unless of course an emergency comes up. If you've ever planned a party, then you know that is takes a lot of planning and usually, a good bit of MONEY. People have to make decisions about food, decorations, activities, etc. based on the number of people who are attending. Please don't make a host wait. Be polite and respond as soon as you can and then make sure you keep your commitment. That's what every lady strives to do!

What's In Your Bag?

My bag contents change almost daily, depending on what activities we're headed to. I really need a larger-sized bag because so many things inside belong to the kids and plenty of room is needed for that. Here is what I found today:

My calendar (I only use this. No phone apps for me!), Brighton wallet, various pens & pencils, mints, lip stuff, very used tube of Buxom lip gloss in Sandy, Excederin, and paperwork for upcoming dance recital for the 11-year-old.

Today the iPad was with me, as well as a container of Cheerios, and of course my phone. Pretty boring haul. No wrappers, receipts, or stray toys were discovered at the bottom. Do you keep your purse/bag clean and organized?

I am the resurrection and the life. ~ John 11:25

HAPPY EASTER!

A Mother's Hands Are Always Full

As a mother of five, the chaos and busyness of life can be overwhelming. I seek sources most every day of wisdom to help me push through, and remind myself that this season will move so quickly and I must enjoy all that comes with it. I found this newly published work ~ Treasuring Christ When Your Hands Are Full : Gospel Meditations for Busy Moms by Gloria Furman. Recommended!

This little book is a wonderful resource for mothers looking for a spiritual uplift. It is a Gospel-filled, encouraging read from a mom who is very real and honest. Gloria Furman reminds us that we always need God's grace, no matter what's going on in our lives or what stage of mothering we're in. She uses scripture to point our eyes back on Christ and the wonders He has for those of us called to be mothers.

I think this would be an excellent choice for small group study. The chapters are short enough to get through quickly, but full of the Word and truth. There is also a free study guide to download at crossway.org/treasuring.

1. Metal hangers from the dry cleaner

2. Sweaters with too many fuzz balls or snags

3. Shoes that hurt your feet

4. Clothes with stains

5. Plastic stadium cups

6. Dishes you never use

7. Cookbooks you never use

8. Difficult, time-consuming, or expensive recipes

9. Dried-up cans of paint

10. Broken electronics

11. Florist's vases that you don't use

12. Paperback books you'll never reread

13. Greeting cards with no sentimental value

14. Expired coupons

15. Manuals for items you don't own anymore