Everyday task..

I have written a few paragraphs only to erase them twice... I guess I don't know quite what to write about today. My normal life this week wasn't very exciting. I feel mostly tired. I haven't quite settled into our school routine. I am still staying up too late and trying to feel motivated in the morning to be creative when packing my kiddos lunches hasn't always panned out. Yes, the lunches have been packed and ready, but I am lacking that creative drive. Pinterest has many good ideas and I have a goal for next week to try a few of them. I want to cut down on my use of baggies, I need to invest in some good containers that the kids can use over and over.

I think my kids would enjoy knowing that I've taken time to consider some new and fun options for them, putting a smile on their faces while they unpack that days creation. I love art and need to incorporate an art themed lunch.. I love an everything the same color lunch. I will try and take some fun pictures to document my endeavor. Here's to a fun creative outlet in an everyday task! 

Thrifting know how

As a child I went "boutiquing" as my mom liked to call it many Saturdays. There were tips that I was taught about how to thrift; to get the most out of my money. I thought I should impart this wisdom and let you into the little world of finding treasure amidst other's throw aways. I see it as the ultimate recycling and love the thrill of the hunt, knowing that my wish list of vintage things could be found at any local thrift store is so exciting. Here's a list of tips to help you conquer this quest:

1. Label shop! The point here is that good quality items last longer, so if you're spending $1.99 you might as well spend it on great brands!

2. Have  a wish list. I have certain items I know I need or that I've been searching for. Knowing a purpose behind your shopping is good sometimes to help you narrow down your options.

3. Keep an open mind. I know this kind of contrasts #2, but looking at things in  new ways is important when thrifting. You need to think outside the box sometimes.

4. Buy what you love. If you are hesitating on the item, but keep going back to only the price (what a deal it is), it might not be worth buying, even if it's a good deal.

5. Shop often. Knowing the store and when they offer sale days & when they place "new" items is important, get to know these things and be savvy about when you shop.

I look around my home and am thankful I was introduced to this adventure early in life. Thanks Mom!

Happy Thrifting! :)

Inner Ramblings & the moments after

I have many conversations inside my head; those thoughts that bounce around prior to a conversation, or one that is yet to be.. or maybe one that will never come at all. I have found that sharing my thoughts in written format scares me. Although I greatly appreicate reading the honest, gut wrenching moments in others blogs,  I am struggling with being that transparent in mine.

My blog tends to edit the moments that could step on others toes or hurt feelings.   I just can't bring myself to the point of feeling like it'll be okay to share them.... but isn't that the point of this? Isn't my heart crying out to share the deep moments, the real life, the mess.. I crave that. So where do I start? And how much do I share? I think I will just start being "more me"... I may shock, offend, or annoy folks in the process, but all opinions can do that right? ... the honest truth may not happen as quickly as I dream.  The layers may take some time to peel back... but I am taking a baby step..

Looking back at the journey that got me to this day, this moment at the pool talking with women who share their world with others through blogs, who open their hearts for all to see, I am inspired to do the same. Grateful to know and meet such brave women. Life is messy. I am imperfect. There, that was freeing! Welcome to my imperfect mess!

What is my greatest fear in being more real? That's the question that's been stewing in my head this afternoon. What will happen if I just lay it out there... will people still like me? That's what it comes down to for me most...being likable.. does that just sound crazy shallow? I think I am mostly likable... I can be a lot of fun, I am positive most days, but what about those days and times when I am no fun to be around, when I am feeling discouraged, angry, and overall ugly... will I still be likable? And why is being likable more important to me than authentic?. That's pandora's box for me... I have so many tales to tell about why pretending or putting on a face is sometimes my natural reaction rather than honesty.  Hurt and shame can cause me to put on the mask or ignore the pain... BUT I am praising God that I am recognizing that a bit more quickly now, and I am trying to be more intentional with my friendships, to live life on life more openly, talking through the mess and knowing that the mess of life doesn't define me, I am who I am in Christ and He loves me. So my security can be found only in Jesus. I am secure to share the ups and downs, the joys and triumphs, heart aches and burdens; honestly without fear, but with tenderness and empathy.