tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636907738006629942024-03-13T08:09:27.414-07:00One Day At A TimeNicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.comBlogger320125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-13070350329522043022013-04-17T10:10:00.001-07:002013-04-17T10:10:16.107-07:00Another Kind Of Outlet<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My last blog post on here was in December. I'm not sure why I can't seem to get on here to blog. Life isn't any busier than usual. Things are good. We are still pretty much functioning as we have been, reminding me of this Beatles song, </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1S-Lhu4gFQ">LOVE</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now, I'm not going to get a mushy, and sentimental and whiny on ya'll. I figure that people will take this as they will so no need for me to elaborate. Ya'll know who you are. (for the good and the not so good) </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love to write. It's a huge outlet for me. Blogging kept me sane through my pregnancy and the triplets being tinies. Now though, I want to write more personally. I've come a long way in 5 years. I've grown in so many different ways. My whole family has. Now though, I'm going to take some time for me, and write my little heart out, but it won't be public. Not just yet. </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, I will try to get on here and write but I'm just not so sure how much it will be. I actually thought about closing off this blog but I know that I might want to pop back over here now and then to say hi, or write about the kids. </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">See you soon! </span></i></div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-75766015103553495172012-12-13T13:02:00.000-08:002012-12-13T13:13:27.416-08:00It's Been Too Long....<div style="text-align: center;">
I am ridiculous. I love to blog, to write, but somehow this got lost in my priorities. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This wonderful article pretty much sums it up for me:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/amy-morrison/motherhood_b_2271349.html">Why Your Never Failing As A Mother</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Life with 9 kids is hard. Busy (too busy to blog apparently) and HARD. But please, don't get me wrong, things are great. Really great. Well, within my little world here within MY family, but that is for another time. I'm focusing on the good right now. The GOOD is so so much. Since September 20th (my last blog post).....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The kids started school. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We traveled to Hawaii. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Halloween with 5 Littles and some teens that love the day was fantastic. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are in the process of making some major, but amazing, life changing decisions. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My photography, as I hoped, as become a very integral part of my life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The triplets turned three. THREE. We made it. And we are stronger and happier than ever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We celebrated our 20th anniversary. 20.Years. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are finally content and complete with who were are as a family, and as ourselves. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, that is just the big stuff. As you can imagine the little stuff is like 3 million times a day. And I wouldn't trade if for the world. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UT5N4py7Ulo/UMo_yUpdPyI/AAAAAAAACeQ/cYQhFskak-g/s1600/800_5617-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UT5N4py7Ulo/UMo_yUpdPyI/AAAAAAAACeQ/cYQhFskak-g/s400/800_5617-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is my world. Right there. My life. Nothing in this eternity matters more than them and these past four years have been the hardest of our lives but also the most enlightening. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am more in love with my husband and my family than ever. And that is the best feeling in the entire world. Once you have that, everything else truly does seem to be 'the little stuff'. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<!--3--></div>
<!--3--></div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-19196899713705436432012-09-20T22:58:00.000-07:002012-09-20T22:59:42.730-07:00So *flipping* PROUD. <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>My 13 year old daughter, Juliette, has been practicing pretty hard and playing around with her (my) camera a ton these past few months. She did a photo shoot for a friend last week. I found her photos on my card and started flipping through them. This is what I found: (These are Juliette's photos, I merely did the post processing on them) </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>*Callista* </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aG6MQzn7-2g/UFwADYvIGPI/AAAAAAAACdI/pghoNLmuWyk/s1600/Callista1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aG6MQzn7-2g/UFwADYvIGPI/AAAAAAAACdI/pghoNLmuWyk/s640/Callista1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DnVaEIj5xz0/UFwAQkqatJI/AAAAAAAACdQ/v4r4l3Nc6Ok/s1600/Callista2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DnVaEIj5xz0/UFwAQkqatJI/AAAAAAAACdQ/v4r4l3Nc6Ok/s400/Callista2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IFxzoCCA45s/UFwAZ-c98HI/AAAAAAAACdc/Ionhm5ZMHdo/s1600/Callista3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IFxzoCCA45s/UFwAZ-c98HI/AAAAAAAACdc/Ionhm5ZMHdo/s400/Callista3.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMDIr7Xni-I/UFwAh__hVXI/AAAAAAAACdk/XDu-GfCJBPg/s1600/Callista4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMDIr7Xni-I/UFwAh__hVXI/AAAAAAAACdk/XDu-GfCJBPg/s400/Callista4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8GAGoEecnXI/UFwAuL__1cI/AAAAAAAACds/ra5Et707l20/s1600/Callista6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8GAGoEecnXI/UFwAuL__1cI/AAAAAAAACds/ra5Et707l20/s400/Callista6.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47veY-8h4PI/UFwA_LnO3SI/AAAAAAAACd0/gqSLqC-uV6k/s1600/Callista7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47veY-8h4PI/UFwA_LnO3SI/AAAAAAAACd0/gqSLqC-uV6k/s640/Callista7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I think she ROCKS. I can't wait to watch her grow in her talents. </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><!--3--></span></i></div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-8816395665809882552012-08-21T21:49:00.002-07:002012-08-21T21:49:33.744-07:00Where have you BEEN?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pretty dang busy :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, If you remember, my goals for 2012 were to dedicate as much time as I could to my photography. I wanted to learn and play and create as much as I could. I've done pretty well holding up to that goal. The one thing I haven't attained yet is to take a class. That goal has been redirected to a New Years EVE goal to END the year with instead. I have to give a little somewhere. Lol. Between photographing every single person that I can and raising 9 Littles, life is pretty busy. The triplets are *almost* THREE and for some reason, I'm dying about this miletone/birthday. Three officially means the aren't babies anymore. At all. Or even toddlers. They are official PRESCHOOLERS. Oh.my.Yikes. Our son graduated high school. We officially have TWO adult children. How did THAT happen? I have a 9th grader, a 8th grade, a 1st grader and four children at home under the age of 4. But 3 of them almost 3. That sounds crazy, even to me. I am about to celebrate my 20 year wedding anniversary to my high school sweetheart who loves me relentlessly and tolerates me tirelessly :) And I say that with intense love. Trust me, he puts up with alot. :) I am at such a good place in my life right now and I am loving it!. Yes, it is still HARD. The hardest thing I've ever done. But when I step back and look around, I am amazed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So here is what I've been up to the past few months. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(And I apologize, because I know this isn't my photography blog, I wanted to share it here also, since this is pretty much where I've been and what I've been doing besides taking care of my family)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0FR1kBki5v0/UDQ3lmWMKII/AAAAAAAACVc/lqoqg5Qk3kk/s1600/J2wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0FR1kBki5v0/UDQ3lmWMKII/AAAAAAAACVc/lqoqg5Qk3kk/s400/J2wm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4Ok6qEotUk/UDQ30_fEfuI/AAAAAAAACVo/brvzhUTMvVY/s1600/J7wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4Ok6qEotUk/UDQ30_fEfuI/AAAAAAAACVo/brvzhUTMvVY/s320/J7wm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gDVhxsVVqYY/UDQ4QbeevxI/AAAAAAAACVw/AMCxIxHzidg/s1600/Kate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gDVhxsVVqYY/UDQ4QbeevxI/AAAAAAAACVw/AMCxIxHzidg/s320/Kate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7JH4yojdglc/UDQ4gNq1_FI/AAAAAAAACV8/5_a5UsYabfo/s1600/Kate25wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7JH4yojdglc/UDQ4gNq1_FI/AAAAAAAACV8/5_a5UsYabfo/s400/Kate25wm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hl9BlvYgNos/UDQ4zfFiBhI/AAAAAAAACWE/V9m9u9CYS08/s1600/Katie5wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hl9BlvYgNos/UDQ4zfFiBhI/AAAAAAAACWE/V9m9u9CYS08/s400/Katie5wm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IgZCUGm0N-8/UDQ5LUWx4nI/AAAAAAAACWQ/zPtAk70iM2I/s1600/Emily2wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IgZCUGm0N-8/UDQ5LUWx4nI/AAAAAAAACWQ/zPtAk70iM2I/s640/Emily2wm.jpg" width="459" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dLTaipuFvgA/UDQ5cNmvYTI/AAAAAAAACWY/UIE5zjcL-SM/s1600/Emily7wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dLTaipuFvgA/UDQ5cNmvYTI/AAAAAAAACWY/UIE5zjcL-SM/s320/Emily7wm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtRliczcAqs/UDQ5vHXW6kI/AAAAAAAACWk/kVUd3c6CQFM/s1600/Polli5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtRliczcAqs/UDQ5vHXW6kI/AAAAAAAACWk/kVUd3c6CQFM/s400/Polli5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yLv8CVZSRp8/UDQ6LLVc3nI/AAAAAAAACWs/DKd64dZk6qo/s1600/Polli8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yLv8CVZSRp8/UDQ6LLVc3nI/AAAAAAAACWs/DKd64dZk6qo/s320/Polli8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eX1IoVnWKDk/UDQ6dctvJ6I/AAAAAAAACW4/2dcNQsNhh8w/s1600/AnnieB1wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eX1IoVnWKDk/UDQ6dctvJ6I/AAAAAAAACW4/2dcNQsNhh8w/s400/AnnieB1wm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AhLleQ2cQ_I/UDQ6mBIwUqI/AAAAAAAACXA/0UgU43NAC-U/s1600/Anniecollagewm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AhLleQ2cQ_I/UDQ6mBIwUqI/AAAAAAAACXA/0UgU43NAC-U/s320/Anniecollagewm.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O1nX-ujwukw/UDQ61auLXFI/AAAAAAAACXI/eD91Q161E0I/s1600/JA2wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O1nX-ujwukw/UDQ61auLXFI/AAAAAAAACXI/eD91Q161E0I/s640/JA2wm.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RpWp-edg8qE/UDQ7DIZjImI/AAAAAAAACXU/4it8ZH-0z0Q/s1600/JA4wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RpWp-edg8qE/UDQ7DIZjImI/AAAAAAAACXU/4it8ZH-0z0Q/s320/JA4wm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kIvEQx6_r9w/UDQ7XhHy6JI/AAAAAAAACXc/n1yM_BQ1Vec/s1600/Rosiebatman2wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kIvEQx6_r9w/UDQ7XhHy6JI/AAAAAAAACXc/n1yM_BQ1Vec/s320/Rosiebatman2wm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4QBl1_q1gtQ/UDQ7eCXTTXI/AAAAAAAACXk/6t49OTA0VLw/s1600/Tammi11wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4QBl1_q1gtQ/UDQ7eCXTTXI/AAAAAAAACXk/6t49OTA0VLw/s400/Tammi11wm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hc8zarri7Vc/UDQ7uw5XOGI/AAAAAAAACXw/Y9zEIcElJIM/s1600/Tammi12wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hc8zarri7Vc/UDQ7uw5XOGI/AAAAAAAACXw/Y9zEIcElJIM/s320/Tammi12wm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmnkhFOzEqI/UDQ7-bcp_JI/AAAAAAAACX4/IjmrNvWPq3c/s1600/Tammi3wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmnkhFOzEqI/UDQ7-bcp_JI/AAAAAAAACX4/IjmrNvWPq3c/s320/Tammi3wm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-16808809842384347352012-07-01T17:20:00.000-07:002012-07-02T11:56:23.153-07:00A Very Important, Missed Anniversary.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H8BEctsh9UY/T_DnU0U3ptI/AAAAAAAACVI/Mp8z3hyyE1A/s1600/536130_4148611319559_272577441_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H8BEctsh9UY/T_DnU0U3ptI/AAAAAAAACVI/Mp8z3hyyE1A/s400/536130_4148611319559_272577441_n.jpg" width="266" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">June 21st. The Summer Solstice. The beginning of a new....</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.season</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.life<br />
.letting go</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.promises</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.revelations</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.joy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.<span style="background-color: white;">realizations</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">.grief</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">.beliefs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">.sadness.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">.art</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">.embracing</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Everyone will have different story in how the first day/week/month and even year of the season came and went. Some won't remember, some will celebrate, some finally become. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was the day, for me, that marks the 2 year anniversary of my dreadlock journey. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It came and went and I forgot. That is not a bad thing. It means that my journey is proving successful. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's a few postings that I've done along my journey. There isn't alot but enough for you to get the idea. I intended to blog my journey much more thoroughly, but when embarking on it, within the first few months, so much of what I was discovering, and finding and embracing was just too personal at that time for me to feel comfortable sharing. Yet. Someday, maybe. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://onedayatatimenicole.blogspot.com/2010/06/dreadlocks.html">Dreadlocks</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://onedayatatimenicole.blogspot.com/2010/06/live-littlelearn-little.html">Live A Little..Learn A Little..</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://onedayatatimenicole.blogspot.com/2010/06/new-journey-new-blog.html">A New Journey..A New Blog..</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://becoming-journey.blogspot.com/2010_06_01_archive.html">Becoming. </a> This is the dread blog that I started but just never kept up. It almost seemed redundant because I was posting here as well. Maybe I will start it again one day. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The few things I can share that I've become.....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.Happier</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.More patient</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.Calmer</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.Free-r</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And my biggest one so far. Being less obsessive about things being orderly at all times. This one was huge to me. It was a trait that I didn't like in myself at all. It was added stress for me and my entire family. I knew it would be much healthier for me to try to work past that need than to keep up with things all the time. It was the right choice. There are times where I have to force myself to not constantly pick up the house all the time, but it is getting much easier. My kids clothing doesn't always have to match. They pick for themselves. We go full days without getting dressed at all. Dishes can sit in the sink for a few hours. I've learned that I don't have to impress anyone. Only myself. And that goes so much deeper than just a clean house and perfect kids. It's a true reflection of who I've BECOME. And I love me. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In a sense, for me, dreadlocks were the best thing that I've ever done for myself. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They are so much more than just a hairstyle. They become a part of you, not only physically but emotionally. As they form, so does your soul, IF you completely free your mind as you go. Another lesson learned. Two years in and my dreadlocks of a very important part of Me. They are here to stay. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a message to the very few people who do know my complete journey so far.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank you always for your love and support. I love you all. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wK7b0iQtCm4/T_DnTWsjmDI/AAAAAAAACUw/J3hWqiJ6t0g/s1600/168218_4148602039327_1553771227_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wK7b0iQtCm4/T_DnTWsjmDI/AAAAAAAACUw/J3hWqiJ6t0g/s640/168218_4148602039327_1553771227_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5h8vcCnWESo/T_DnT6zSy1I/AAAAAAAACU4/gh34a7jfCSA/s1600/185008_4148615479663_324066239_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5h8vcCnWESo/T_DnT6zSy1I/AAAAAAAACU4/gh34a7jfCSA/s640/185008_4148615479663_324066239_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mBCstmoE-uE/T_DnUklBU1I/AAAAAAAACVA/e-fNo9s0c5Y/s1600/252640_4148747562965_17223188_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mBCstmoE-uE/T_DnUklBU1I/AAAAAAAACVA/e-fNo9s0c5Y/s640/252640_4148747562965_17223188_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAT8EPEgMHk/T_DnVQhwAAI/AAAAAAAACVQ/tdL3bnYDnSU/s1600/577441_4148603999376_897529306_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAT8EPEgMHk/T_DnVQhwAAI/AAAAAAAACVQ/tdL3bnYDnSU/s640/577441_4148603999376_897529306_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-9505444467051455082012-06-18T20:53:00.000-07:002012-07-01T16:37:39.277-07:00The Most Fun In A Long Time...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">And by that I so do not mean to minimize all of the fun things that have happened also, but this was different. This was carefree, and fun, and important all in one.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> I really haven't felt that relaxed and truly happy in just a moment such as I did this day.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> The Portland Pride Parade 2012. It was so much fun and the girls had a blast! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Yay for my Family. Yay for Us. </span>Yay for new, beautiful and amazing friends. And Yay for me. Okay, so yeah, still stressed out at some point at least twice in each day about random and numerous different things but finally feeling peaceful.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Life Is Perfect.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Motorcycles are LOUD. All Gwen, Rosie, Mia, Lilah & Juliette (clockwise)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EHEJTjaGlQI/T9_Gl4kLS6I/AAAAAAAACRk/GUx2z-xnpaQ/s1600/Evie6-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EHEJTjaGlQI/T9_Gl4kLS6I/AAAAAAAACRk/GUx2z-xnpaQ/s400/Evie6-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We were sitting about 20 feet away from them. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UmkDXS49AfM/T9_HCs2araI/AAAAAAAACRs/AlbM_29GU5s/s1600/Evie6-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UmkDXS49AfM/T9_HCs2araI/AAAAAAAACRs/AlbM_29GU5s/s320/Evie6-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Nikes float. It was really cool. And they had even cooler teeshirts! Juliette is on the hunt for them now. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6wquQYkgIFo/T9_HwqmGFrI/AAAAAAAACSA/tRU-Ci9j4WE/s1600/Evie6-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6wquQYkgIFo/T9_HwqmGFrI/AAAAAAAACSA/tRU-Ci9j4WE/s640/Evie6-10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Way cool. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CMIfTFWNkVk/T9_ICLmwmuI/AAAAAAAACSM/h8IJ69dwgKQ/s1600/Evie6-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CMIfTFWNkVk/T9_ICLmwmuI/AAAAAAAACSM/h8IJ69dwgKQ/s400/Evie6-11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Evie loves Annie</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YLhtglGulUg/T9_IexaGvoI/AAAAAAAACSU/y1j0y_EkHgU/s1600/Evie6-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YLhtglGulUg/T9_IexaGvoI/AAAAAAAACSU/y1j0y_EkHgU/s640/Evie6-7.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> New friends <3 Evie and her Mama Renae</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FwEQS-g_zr4/T9_JhSTKfJI/AAAAAAAACSg/sC7hBGY992s/s1600/Evie6-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FwEQS-g_zr4/T9_JhSTKfJI/AAAAAAAACSg/sC7hBGY992s/s400/Evie6-19.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
LOVED these outfits!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zNfeu9kKVlI/T9_J95WFalI/AAAAAAAACSo/j18iZiCYhpg/s1600/Evie6-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zNfeu9kKVlI/T9_J95WFalI/AAAAAAAACSo/j18iZiCYhpg/s320/Evie6-22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This guys was really cool too <3<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HIhiyOXEPy0/T9_KarOQF0I/AAAAAAAACS0/h9fMe7zBiHs/s1600/Evie6-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HIhiyOXEPy0/T9_KarOQF0I/AAAAAAAACS0/h9fMe7zBiHs/s320/Evie6-23.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gwena and Evie dancing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6zEhb4KX0U4/T9_Rw_ZyJbI/AAAAAAAACTA/mic9F36d0_Y/s1600/Evie6-28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6zEhb4KX0U4/T9_Rw_ZyJbI/AAAAAAAACTA/mic9F36d0_Y/s320/Evie6-28.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<3 Pure awesomeness <3</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBzne_XpKpY/T9_SNXz-UsI/AAAAAAAACTM/g4xnfwGE9Is/s1600/Evie6-29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBzne_XpKpY/T9_SNXz-UsI/AAAAAAAACTM/g4xnfwGE9Is/s640/Evie6-29.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All 6 little girls. Girls, girls, girls. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RkySiFajr28/T9_SmDm_quI/AAAAAAAACTU/YJGowdAwhyA/s1600/Evie6-30-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RkySiFajr28/T9_SmDm_quI/AAAAAAAACTU/YJGowdAwhyA/s320/Evie6-30-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Evie and her Mommy, April <3</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-07P-vW8mlLw/T9_XC5I0p9I/AAAAAAAACTk/24MCt_W8Gio/s1600/Evie6-32-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-07P-vW8mlLw/T9_XC5I0p9I/AAAAAAAACTk/24MCt_W8Gio/s400/Evie6-32-2.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Really cool dragon float. The girls loved it. Evie was scaaaarrreedd. ;)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lQkMpVpWIvI/T9_XfFifgqI/AAAAAAAACTs/M_n2kQjnQEQ/s1600/Evie6-37-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lQkMpVpWIvI/T9_XfFifgqI/AAAAAAAACTs/M_n2kQjnQEQ/s400/Evie6-37-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I loved this balloon rainbow. Its so pretty <3</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aoO8rqfdd94/T9_X4S52mMI/AAAAAAAACT4/LCHYDyLeTi0/s1600/Evie6-38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aoO8rqfdd94/T9_X4S52mMI/AAAAAAAACT4/LCHYDyLeTi0/s400/Evie6-38.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rosalie with our gigantic balloon. Nikes new little ad campaign :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lpt6Mq93p4E/T9_aM0XEcuI/AAAAAAAACUA/5MSyzMiz_bg/s1600/Evie6-43-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lpt6Mq93p4E/T9_aM0XEcuI/AAAAAAAACUA/5MSyzMiz_bg/s640/Evie6-43-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a real belly laugh folks. We had a BLAST. Mia and Evie</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-33E0_hZ-9HI/T9_akYToQ9I/AAAAAAAACUM/ICJ7CuXS5jI/s1600/Evie6-51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-33E0_hZ-9HI/T9_akYToQ9I/AAAAAAAACUM/ICJ7CuXS5jI/s640/Evie6-51.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A semi-group shot. Evie, April, Rosalie, Mia, Aaron and Juliette (counter-clockwise)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tG5zjIgjtO0/T9_a_a6uQfI/AAAAAAAACUU/iXlH7GGxKDo/s1600/Evie6-54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tG5zjIgjtO0/T9_a_a6uQfI/AAAAAAAACUU/iXlH7GGxKDo/s640/Evie6-54.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And of course, stilllllll babywearing. :) Rosalie and Juliette <3</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i2YwvbX5N90/T9_nJybrR2I/AAAAAAAACUk/9Pl0ELUtGBE/s1600/PP-56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i2YwvbX5N90/T9_nJybrR2I/AAAAAAAACUk/9Pl0ELUtGBE/s320/PP-56.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-9361468924687462132012-05-26T12:33:00.002-07:002012-05-26T12:39:47.702-07:00A Message For You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>3 night ago, my Grandpa died. It's okay. He was 90(and a half) and so very very ready to be with my Grandma again. I posted this: <a href="http://onedayatatimenicole.blogspot.com/2009/01/rip-nancy-lou-sarysz-my-grandma.html">RIP Grandma</a>. </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>This is not a post about my Grandpa. Not just yet. You see, I haven't really cried yet and so everytime I try to write an honorable post about him, I start to cry. Grandpa wanted no drama or fanfare or upsets over his death. He said 'Life is for the living. Do not waste precious moment grieving the dead' </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>I'm trying to respect that. I know the sadness is for me. I will give in to the tears when they are tears of happy remembrances and not tears of guilt and sadness. (I'm one who remembers alllll the things I forgot to do/say after a loved one dies :/ ) </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>So anyways. A post later about Grandpa, I promise. For now, this is a message. To someone I love very dearly, who is having a difficult time with the fact that her Dad is gone. 'I know this is hard. And I know you are hard on yourself for alot of things. Do not ever question the fact that you are an amazing Mom and raised some pretty damn good kids. But I don't need to tell you that.'</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i> I have proof: </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NWlwcAkvb5A/T8EsICQRN6I/AAAAAAAACQc/wRNFZtIn_Cg/s1600/SCP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NWlwcAkvb5A/T8EsICQRN6I/AAAAAAAACQc/wRNFZtIn_Cg/s400/SCP.jpg" width="400" /></i></span></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>''My love</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>There's only you in my life</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>The only thing that's right</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>My first love</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Your every breath that I take</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Your every step I make</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>And I</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>I want to share</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>All my love with you</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>No one else will do</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>And your eyes</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>They tell me how much you care</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Oh yes</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>You will always be</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>My endless love</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Two hearts</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Two hears that beat as one</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Our lives have just begun</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>And forever........''</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Who knew that almost 24 years ago this is where we would be today ♥ Our wedding song, a prophecy, of sorts. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Without my Mom and my Grandparents, being the very best examples and teachers I could ask for, I wouldn't be this amazingly happy today. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>My wonderfully, amazingly, absolutely beautiful family ♥</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>So, Mom. See? Ya'll done this so right. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>I Love You. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-left;">
<span style="color: sienna; font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gXMqgYQf0ik/T8EsKZU3FtI/AAAAAAAACQk/fS4YkCfCNoU/s1600/SCP2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gXMqgYQf0ik/T8EsKZU3FtI/AAAAAAAACQk/fS4YkCfCNoU/s1600/SCP2.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: sienna; font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sarahcostaphotography.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>http://sarahcostaphotography.com/</i></span></a>
</div>
<span style="color: sienna; font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-82980817105844296352012-05-24T13:17:00.002-07:002012-05-24T13:17:35.417-07:00*Smack*<div style="text-align: center;">
As if I ran headfirst into a brick wall. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Writers Block. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I mean, I have tons going on, but I think I'm too overwhelmed by it all to write about it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Functioning, processing and trying to remain as consistent as possible. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That has been my focus. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hopefully, soon I might have something to say. Honestly, this is a first for me. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:/</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-16071815226418989392012-05-09T12:15:00.001-07:002012-05-24T13:04:57.539-07:00Moving Backwards<div style="text-align: center;">
I am just not getting this. It is 2012. North Carolina just approved a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage. But they didn't stop there. They also went one step further by not allowing civil unions. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What.The.F***. !?!?!?!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
WHY is this even an issue? Who's business is it of ANYONES to tell someone who they can and cannot love. Let alone our government. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Black.Gay.Girl.Old.Transgender.White.Boy.Bisexual.Straight.Young.Tall.Funny.Blonde.Lesbian.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All I see from all those words is a person. People. Human beings that love and needs love. The desire for touch and companionship. The need to share their love with another person, or even multiple people. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hear all this talk from people about how 'allowing gay marriage will ruin the sanctity of marriage'</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Someone please tell me how that is? You know what? Never mind. I don't want to hear any closed minded opinions of how that could happen. It doesn't. No more so than a heterosexual couple could. Or ANY couple for that matter. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This video is going around Facebook. I watched it. I cried. I watched it again and again and wished the whole time that Tom was my son. That I could take him in my arms, hold him and tell him I love him. His parents should be ashamed of themselves. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have so much more that I could say but I'm so angry right now. And sad. And disgusted with the fact that there is even a need for me to be angry, and sad and disgusted. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please watch the video. Its long. And its sad. But take a minute and really watch Tom and Shane. Watch the video clips. You can SEE how much love is shared there. LOVE. And really, when it comes down to it, thats really all that matters. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pR9gyloyOjM" width="560"></iframe></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-21402242046469823942012-05-01T22:32:00.005-07:002012-05-01T22:34:43.069-07:00When I See you Smile...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Usually a certain photograph can make me sing a little song in my head. This one though, makes me think that someone who witnesses me looking at this particular photograph, will be able to see what I am singing based purely on the look upon my face. </span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">'</span><span style="background-color: white; font-style: italic; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">When I see you smile </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">I can face the world, oh oh, </span><br style="line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">you know I can do anything </span><br style="line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">When I see you smile </span><br style="line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">I see a ray of light, oh oh, </span><br style="line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">I see it shining right through the rain </span><br style="line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">When I see you smile </span><br style="line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Oh yeah, when I see you smile at me'</span></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YELk8ECJORY/T6DGCy0JlyI/AAAAAAAACO0/eDNUGFzIz0E/s1600/Silouhettewm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YELk8ECJORY/T6DGCy0JlyI/AAAAAAAACO0/eDNUGFzIz0E/s400/Silouhettewm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-10153531497105596692012-04-25T16:36:00.001-07:002012-05-01T22:35:48.087-07:00Far From Perfect<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-acXvrr_-aTY/T5h92N9oOuI/AAAAAAAACJ8/JLLekKgdPmM/s1600/SIS4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-acXvrr_-aTY/T5h92N9oOuI/AAAAAAAACJ8/JLLekKgdPmM/s320/SIS4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h7REvU52rb4/T5h-AHypuhI/AAAAAAAACKU/Bb3I3ddVulE/s1600/SIS1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h7REvU52rb4/T5h-AHypuhI/AAAAAAAACKU/Bb3I3ddVulE/s320/SIS1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7N61jH7xcGo/T5h97FEqU9I/AAAAAAAACKE/hMTlIV72DqM/s1600/SIS3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7N61jH7xcGo/T5h97FEqU9I/AAAAAAAACKE/hMTlIV72DqM/s320/SIS3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cRMTuODjVrw/T5h99zO5ARI/AAAAAAAACKM/gBnXnqs5qUo/s1600/SIS2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cRMTuODjVrw/T5h99zO5ARI/AAAAAAAACKM/gBnXnqs5qUo/s320/SIS2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am not perfect. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are not perfect. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My family is not perfect. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now, I'm not saying that I think everyone *thinks* I am perfect. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I strive to be. And I am every so slowly learning that striving for perfection in myself and others is too much. Just too much. For anyone. And if it't too much for me to attain, who am I to think that others could do it too? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(I will apologize early on in this post because I haven't posted in so long that I am bursting. It's gonna be an earful, and one that I struggling with posting because of the intimacy of it. And it involves more than just me.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, *deep breaths* Here goes:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the past 3 years, my entire family has been put on hold. Since May 2009, which is when we told the kids about the triplets, our world has revolved around the triplets. And me. Anything to keep them happy, keep me happy and maintain the peace. Self-preservation on my part. I'm not going to say I regret how we've handled the past few years, because obviously something was and is working because we are all still here and loving each other, regardless. And when you consider the divorce rate among parents of triplet parents is about 5% overall and and additional 4% suffer from sort of physical or substance abuse! Take into consideration our 'teen pregnancy and marriage at 18/19 at 48% and our stats go WAY UP. Like to about 55% averaged. Whoa. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yet, here we are. Almost 20 years later. And so in love it's crazy. Soul mates. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are all awesome and I am so incredibly blessed. I thank the Gods daily for my life. Something else I've learned to do more. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I dropped the ball. (Again, yes, but this is biggie) Somewhere, along the line, I (ASS)umed that my older 4 kids would be 'just fine' since they are older'. They are near perfect in every single way. Notice, I said near. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I got a HUGE wake-up call. HUGE. And this is where my 'Oh fuck' moment comes in. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My son came home from a friends house, neighbor friend actually, drunk. Yes, I said drunk. :/ </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
'Oh, fuck' right?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm not going to go into specifics because it's still so new, and to be honest, I'm not 100% sure I want to even post this, but as I said, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are not perfect. And the pressure to be so is so intense. And I hope this somehow maybe helps someone in my shoes. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And my kids are not perfect. They are kids. Teens. They screw up, hell, they fuck up. Alot. This was a big fuck up for him. And of course, I feel like the Worlds Crappiest Mom. 'Go me, I done good. This is all my fault' </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But it't not. My kids are amazing, well-behaved, delightfully intelligent and loving human beings, but they are not perfect. They are kids. Teens. Human beings that make mistakes and LEARN from those mistakes. See, that's how I know it's not my fault. They are individuals that think for themselves. He made a choice to do what he did. It was not my fault. There is no 'fault' to be had here. It was a lesson. He made a crappy choice and he learned from it. Next time, he will make the right choice. And I know this because I taught my kids to be themselves. I taught them to make choices. No, they don't always choose the right choice for them, but everyone makes mistakes. Life is about making mistakes and learning from them. And not everyone makes the same mistakes, they make the mistakes that, in turn, makes the lesson learned personal to them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Clear as mud right? :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some of the things he said, and I feel that peoples inhibitions are dropped after they've been drinking, and truth is more apt to flow out, made me cry. Sob actually, but he also made me think. This is his way of saying 'Hey! Look at me! I'm still here' </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And baby boy, we are LOOKING. We are here and we see. I know, finally! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's time for the triplets to realize that they need to fully merge into our family. It's taking alot of time and I am so proud of my kids for who they are and what they've become through all this. In some ways it's been amazing. To see my kids grow and their love for one another is just amazing, but in others, it's been so sad. I haven't fully been here for them. Not as I should have.I feel like I'm up above, watching my life as a movie, and I can SEE whats happening, but I can't stop it. It's self preservation because an emotionally absent Mom, was better, in my opinion, to a physically absent one because I went crazy (okay, I'm exaggerating a bit here, but you get the idea). </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Poeple always say to me, 'Wow, you have older kids huh? That must be such a huge help!'</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay, well, yes. But no. In the physical helping sense of the word, yes. They are awesome. They help SO MUCH. But for me, it's a huge struggle. I am, in a sense, raising two separate families. The physical needs of the older kids are so much different than the ones of the littles, that I struggled big time. I am still struggling. I am still earning how to be a good parent to (almost) 2 adults and 3/ 2 year olds. Throw in some teens and preschoolers and you got yourself a recipe for an emotional roller coaster. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He was my wake up call. We all sat down and talked and we are slowly readjusting the roles that we all will take in this. The babies are 2.5 years. They are old enough to now be 'one of the kids'. It's actually going okay. I'm surprising myself and doing really well. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I feel a calmer household with a bit more laughing. Well, among the older kids. TheTriplets are just setting forth their official 'sibling rivalry' And let me tell ya, it's not a ton of fun. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But again, lessons of life and being learned. And part of life is continuing to learn.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That is the one thing I want my kids to always know. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-30776908942223056092012-04-05T13:27:00.002-07:002012-04-05T13:41:40.146-07:00*It's Been A Year*<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 100%; ">It's been one whole year since my world was turned upside down. </span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 100%; ">It's been 12 months since I got one of the worst phone calls of my life. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;">And it's been 365 entire days since I almost lost one of my very best friends in the world. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">One year ago I blogged <a href="http://onedayatatimenicole.blogspot.com/2011_04_01_archive.html">this</a> entry. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Today, my baby sister is doing better. Physically she has 'mostly' recovered from the accident that very likely should have killed her. A few bumps in the road here and there but overall, she's come a very long way. Emotionally, I'm not really sure. And I'm not-sure enough to not go into it on here. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">But it didn't kill her. And I thank the higher powers that be every day that she was given another chance at life. I'm not sure I could have recovered if I lost her. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm thankful for so many things that came from that accident. I'm even more thankful for my siblings and try so hard to not take it for granted that I have them. I'm thankful for the lesson that everyone around me learned about drunk driving.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I'm thankful that my baby sister is alive. </div><div><br /></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-2411588919100603422012-03-09T08:38:00.012-08:002012-03-09T09:39:32.463-08:00A Heavy Heart & Signs Of Hope<div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">A few posts ago, I mentioned an unusual amount of teen suicides in our small town. 2 night ago, there was another. This is now 7 in 7 months. This time it was a 14 year old girl named <a href="http://www.columbian.com/news/2012/mar/08/teens-vancouver-Cascade-eighth-grader-suicide/">Eden.</a> She was bullied so badly that she took her own life. SHE WAS 14. Fourteen. Still just a baby with her whole life ahead of her. My heart is breaking. Being a teenager is HARD. Try to think back and remember. </div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSnNxUbzTGI/T1o0DPbvupI/AAAAAAAACJ0/LGUERvmbbyg/s1600/420828_284047878333536_100001849777148_680388_833251637_n.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 247px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSnNxUbzTGI/T1o0DPbvupI/AAAAAAAACJ0/LGUERvmbbyg/s400/420828_284047878333536_100001849777148_680388_833251637_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717939907187423890" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Korie-Nicole-Photography/129064687152077" style="font-size: 100%; ">Korie Nicole</a><span style="font-size: 100%; "> is an amazing photographer trying to make a change. She has started a campaign. Her and a few other local photographers. Amazing work! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>YOU MATTER</span></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">If you are local to me, check it out. Go. Be there. SUPPORT OUR KIDS. </div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">Remember this song?</div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "> (RIP Whitney, you will always be amazing to me)</div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "> Listen closely. It all starts at home. Teach your children empathy, compassion & RESPECT FOR OTHERS ALWAYS. </div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">LOVE EACH OTHER. It's NOT that hard!!</div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IYzlVDlE72w" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-30378455892082744892012-03-05T10:43:00.005-08:002012-03-05T13:24:26.310-08:00So Much To Do<div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i><span style="font-size: 100%; ">I thought it would be good to write while I was having a good day. I tend to write when I'm stressed, excited, overly exuberant or angry. I'm not sure what it is about those things that make me want to write. Writing is obviously an outlet for me. Which got me thinking. Maybe I should write. Really write. Like, a novel, or a book or an autobiography or something. Nobody has to read it, or like it but it might help some stress. One of my lovely blog readers, </span><a href="http://spunoutpost.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: 100%; ">Hellena</a><span style="font-size: 100%; ">, has inspired me. She is a beautiful writer and such a beautiful person. I started reading her blog a few days ago and it's fantastic. I can lose myself in her thoughts and her words. So, I'm thinking I should start writing, or at least blogging more. I'm not sure I can blog as amazingly as she does, I'm not sure I'm ready to 'let loose' so to speak. </span></i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Hellena does and she is inspiring. That is on my list for sure. Oh yeah. My list. That is what I was intending to blog about today. I got distracted reading Hellenas' blog. </i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>I have a list. I call it a 'Pre-Bucket List' because, even at 38, I just do not FEEL 38 (more like 25!) so I'm nowhere near ready for an official Bucket List. I'll wait until I am at least 40 for that. My list changes all.the.time too. I add to it, I take away, I put things on there that will more than likely never, ever happen. That should almost be a different list. My 'In Another Lifetime List'. I'll get to work on that. It will be fun to see how many of those I can move over to my 'Pre-Bucket List' and my 'Bucket List'</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>(another little secret about me, that you MAY have already figured out. I am a list maker. I make a list for EVERYTHING.) </i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>My Pre-Bucket List (as of March 5th 2012 at 1pm, anyways) </i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Blog more</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Write an autobiography</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Write about my experiences with breastfeeding triplets</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Write a novel</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Get WAY better at photography</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Play more</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Try dog breeding</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Backpack around another country</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Buy an older VW Bug or Van and fix it up. By myself. </i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Relax often</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Read more books</i></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span ><i>Become a gestational surrogate</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i><span style="text-align: left; "><span>Re-certify</span></span><span><span style="font-size: 100%;"> my CNA and work in a nursing home again</span></span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span><span style="font-size: 100%;" ><i>Bring the kids to a soup kitchen to help with meals</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Bring the kids to a nursing home to visit with the elderly</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Start one of the many photography projects that keep spinning around in my brain</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Stencil my family room wall</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Put hardwood floors in my home</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Continue working on my patience</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Finish my back tattoo</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Get a few more tats (an owl and Jack & Sally) </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Attend a rainbow gathering</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>Sew all my own clothing</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><i>*sigh*. That's all I can think of for now. I know I have more but the kiddos are starting to get crazy. </i></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-46803650808623736642012-02-29T09:18:00.011-08:002012-02-29T10:08:02.267-08:00life.overwhelmed.<div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i>Seriously.</i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i>I used to love February. Not so much anymore. This month has been c.r.a.z.y. Obviously since my last post was almost exactly a month ago. This is going to be kind of a pity party, so if you want to come, please stay and read. If not, I so will not be offended if you step away. Most of my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span> friends will probably not want to relive my month. Yes, it was that bad. BUT. We are all here. And alive. And well. And happy. And (I do say this with caution) back to normal. Finally. </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i>My horrible month started on February 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span>. Rosalie woke up from her nap SICK. Sicker than I've ever seen one of my children. Fever was 104 and she was lethargic and limp. Called the advice nurse, and after determining that she needed to be seen, we headed to the ER. Upon arrival at the ER, vitals were taken.</i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span><span><i><span style="font-size: 100%;"> Temperature: 104.2, </span>Respiration<span style="font-size: 100%;">: 46, O2 Sat: 76% (!!!) Pulse: 158. </span></i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i>Yeah. Read those again. No, I am not kidding. </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i>Keep in mind that we put a healthy child down for a nap and this is what she woke up like. </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Pneumococcal</span> pneumonia. Do I realize there is a vaccine for this? Yep. Pneumonia has 90 subtypes. The vaccines that they have made can protect against 13 of them, given they choose the right one that year. So, basically a 1/90 chance that this MIGHT have been preventable. Not good enough odds for me. But this isn't meant to be a vaccine debate at all. </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i>So, long story short, 3 days in the hospital and she is okay. Thank the Gods. I will mention that the Dr's were SHOCKED that she recovered so fast. I smiled and told them no vaccines and 2 years of breastfeeding did that. :) </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i>While we were in the hospital, I realized how many people are not here for us. Not really. Our baby girl almost died and 2 people came to show their support to our family. My amazing sister and a very very dear friend, both of which I'm not sure I could have made it these past 3 years without, let alone the latest 'stuff'. I'm not angry, or bitter. Not anymore. Almost losing Rosie helped me to see what's important in life. Not lingering over my expectations of people. Obviously mine are too high. </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i>Next to follow along in this awesome month was just lots of little things. You know, the little stuff that can just make or break you? Yeah, I almost broke. Literally. </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i>Broken down cars, broken washing machine, dishwasher died, more illness although nothing near Rosie's, money issues (but who doesn't have THOSE?!), family stuff with another sister that I can't even get into, it's still just too hard and unresolved (in my opinion anyways). Add in general life for us among all this and yeah, life gets crazy. </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i>Our small town has endured the suicides of 6 teens in the past year. Although I did not know any of them, it has weighed heavily on my heart. I have teens. And the thought that these teens were suffering so much that they took their own life, just breaks my heart. And the suicide issue has also hit home hard with a friend whose 2 children are in pain and reaching out also. </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i>Then, we get to add to all this bullying. My 12 year old daughter came to us with a broken heart. Sobbing and crying, begging to switch schools. The problem? One certain teacher and a handful of kids. Kids that she has been friends with for years. ( Have I mentioned that you couldn't pay me enough money to be 12.13.14.15 again? Never) Imagine being 12 and walking through school feeling invisible. And ignored. Feeling like a nobody. My baby girl did this for over a MONTH before she came to us. This is what my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Facebook</span> status was a few days ago: </i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span><i><span style="line-height: 14px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">'Bullying is serious. In ANY form. Bullying is not just calling names and 'being mean'. Bullying is not just physical. A child shunned by all her friends and most of the school is being bullied also. A child should not have to walk around <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">scho</span></span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; line-height: 14px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ol</span> feeling 'invisible'. Even if your child isn't 'friends' with someone, or they aren't <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">BFF's</span> anymore, teach them know that acknowledgment is important too. Just a simple smile can change a persons day. And please talk/listen to your child. Don't just ask about their day. Get specific. Ask about their TEACHERS. You are trusting these people to be a part in raising your child. Ask how they interact and treat your child. Its important.'</span></i></span></div><span><i><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><i><span style="line-height: 14px; ">As for the teacher? Well, the list is long. My daughter was taped to her desk. TAPED. For rocking back in her chair. She was told that her work was worthless. She was told that if she didn't understand an assignment to 'just take an F'. She was humiliated and </span><span style="line-height: 14px; ">ridiculed</span><span style="line-height: 14px; "> by a TEACHER. </span></i></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; line-height: 14px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; line-height: 14px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><i>And she had no friends to turn to. She endured this for a month before coming to us. She didn't want to worry us, or bother us. Poor sweet baby girl. </i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i>She is now in a new school in our same district. So far, so good. She is happy. </i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i>Things are looking better. Tomorrow is March 1st. A new month. Spring is coming and I am hopeful for a continued happiness and peacefulness. </i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i>I have a new car (old one got sold because it was a gas hog. 10mpg? No thanks), all the kids are healthy, happy and content. For now :) </i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i>I am hopeful that it will continue. </i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><span><span style="line-height: 14px; "><i>It HAS to. </i></span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; "><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 14px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-47879755291343884792012-01-31T14:28:00.000-08:002012-01-31T14:30:52.207-08:00Busy.Busy.Busy<div style="text-align: center;">Life is hectic. I do plan to write more someday soon, but this is why I've been so busy. :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nikkisemrophotography.blogspot.com/2012/01/bekah-sarah.html">Bekah & Sarah</a> ♥</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And redecorating my entire house. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Finally my creativeness has returned! Yay!</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-11229386366415722872012-01-12T14:43:00.001-08:002012-05-01T22:36:17.438-07:00Living The Journey. Step 2.<div style="text-align: center;">
So, since the whole purpose of my dreadlock journey is so that I can learn to just 'let things go', I figure I better start on it now that my lockes are fairly fully established. The locks were my first step in this process. I know it's confusing that I started with such a huge step, and now I'm keeping it small again, but it's how I had to do it. I had to prove to myself that this was possible in the biggest way I knew how. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The biggest 'physical' change that I wanted to see when I first started this journey is in my home. Being a sahm (stay at home mama) means that this is my job. My career. It includes caring for the kids, doing the laundry, making meals and keeping the house clean and picked up. Among tons of other things but you what I'm saying. And I take it seriously. Too seriously. To the point of it causing me anxiety. It's crazy and stupid, I know that. I feel that just as how my children behave are a reflection of how I've done as a Mom, so is how the house is kept. It's my job. Simple as that. Would I go to a place of business that I was employed at and leave my office trashed? No.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My point. If the house isn't relatively picked up, at (most) all times, I can't stand it. ( I'm talking the daily toys and clutter, NOT the cleaning. I will continue to be a cleaning freak :) I like that trait in myself, Lol) I can't think in a messy house. I can't do anything in a messy house. A messy house puts me in a bad mood. Stupid. And the odd thing is, it doesn't bother me at someone elses home. Only mine. Pretty sure it's because it is MY responsibility to keep MY home clean. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At least I've figured myself out without help :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I decided that I needed to be less worried about the small stuff. Like the bathtub toys. The girls play with them every.single.day. But every day, when the baths are done, we scoop up the toys and put them all back. And if, for some reason, we don't do it right after bath, I'll do when I'm going to bed. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That.is.dumb. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is my first step in changing things:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zgaRqpb2zB0/Tw9ljXP9RcI/AAAAAAAACDQ/osI46N_Mu8E/s1600/DSC_4273.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696883711857739202" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zgaRqpb2zB0/Tw9ljXP9RcI/AAAAAAAACDQ/osI46N_Mu8E/s400/DSC_4273.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 265px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, that is from last nights bath and it's 3pm the next day and I haven't picked them up yet. usually I have to play the 'out of sight, out of mind' game with myself but not this time. Today I was even able to take a photograph of them and walk away. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is HUGE for me. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am really really proud of myself. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I just keep telling myself... 'baby-steps', 'I think I can, I think I can'. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My goal is to just be able to let the mess linger a tad bit longer before picking up. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We'll see how I do. Wish me luck. :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-91154620150805616592012-01-05T15:10:00.000-08:002012-01-06T10:26:22.763-08:00My Personal Journey, thus far.<div style="text-align: center;">I've gotten a few emails and a few comments left by readers that wanted to know more about my dreadlocks, how it all started, what they mean to me, and also wanted to see some progression photos. So, here it is. Almost 2 years of dreadlocks. My journey, thus far, as simple as I can make it right now. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">And I can simply say, best.decision.ever. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"> I've had my locs for almost 19 months now. I started them June 21st of 2010. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've dreamed of having dreadlocks ever since I can remember. The biggest reason that I never just did it was perception. 'What would people think?' Yep, that was my biggest fear. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is what I've learned. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Dreads are:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Natural.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Beautiful.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Patient.</div><div style="text-align: center;">True.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Unique.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Simple.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Carefree.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hippy.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sensual.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Peaceful.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Organic.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Thoughtful.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Self.</div><div style="text-align: center;">♥</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Dreads are not:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dirty.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Smelly.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Ew.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Icky.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Gross.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Nasty.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Greasy.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Lice.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Itchy.</div><div style="text-align: center;">*Black.</div><div style="text-align: center;">*Black. should be number one actually. Yep, really. I just would like people to do their research before labeling and stating 'facts')</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And yes, these are the things that I hear. I see the eye rolls, I hear the whispers. At first, it bothered me. It made me sad. It takes longer than a day to un-learn what you've seen and done for 37 years. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">At about a year into this journey, I would be offended and angry at the comments. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I would be most horrified when these people would show their distaste and horror over my dreadlocks, in front of their children. Hell, it was bad enough in front of my kids too, but at least I could talk with them and answer their questions. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Way to 'set an example'. Great job showing your kids acceptance and tolerance. Nice work on showing them how to tease, belittle and laugh at someone elses expense. Awesome work on showing them how to judge someone based solely on looks. Because yes, that IS what your child is learning. Yes. Children do learn by example. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Now? Now I smile. And laugh. And smile even bigger. My dreadlocks are for ME. I'm not 'doing this to my hair' so that I can have opinions thrown at me daily. I started this journey to better myself. To learn more about me and to finally really start LIVING how I feel. Not, FEEL how I should live. Live how I think others want me to, or how others think things should be. And how does this all relate to dreadlocks? I was always 'messing'; with my hair. Growing it out, cutting it off. Coloring, perming, highlighting. You name it. For some reason, I needed the constant change in my hair. I think it was some sort of oddly placed control thing. I am a bit OCD. I wanted that to change some, so I took away from my control the one thing I always used. My hair. I had to just 'let things go' 'let it be'. I had no choice. This was a huge step in bettering me as a parent, a wife, and a person. For me. I was ready to take that step. I NEEDED to take that step, triplets were kicking my scheduled, planned, list-making OCD butt. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So, I smile at the lady trying to whisper something incognito, you know the one, where she leans in to the side with her hand kinda over her mouth. But just as a shield, (because you know, lip reading is another one of my hidden talents) to her husband who, believe it or not, looks like he might just think they are kinda cool. And I will add the disclaimer that it could very well be the triplets that people are oogling over. But usually not. You see, I've also learned in the past few years, that people will express their opinions on your children, whether nice or not, much more readily than they will talk with you about your hairstyle. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Totally something to think about huh? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've changed so much in the past 2 years and 11 months. And I'm really happy, content and proud of who I am becoming. And the best feeling is that I'm not afraid to show it anymore. It's a nice feeling. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">♥</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The following what I hope I am portraying to my children. Because so much of this whole process is about them, for them and because of them. Without my babies, I wouldn't be who I am today. And I like what's happening. I kinda love it actually. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-Soaring Eagle (owner at www.dreadlockssite.com)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size:13px;" ><span>dreads are freedom. they are deep personal and intimate connection to</span></span></div><span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">the true self, the earth, to life force of the universe. dreads are a</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">connection to the true self because all your lifes experiences are</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">recorded in your hair. when the hairs locked all experiences intercept</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">all others creating a oneness that can be called wisdom. they are</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">pure natural beauty. they allow you to be your most natural self, free</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">from the artificial cosmetic reality of grooming and dressing to impress</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">makeup and fashion reality</div></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;"><span>you are simply you. nothing more. nothing less.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;"><span>dreads are strength and healing.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span></div><span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">lets look for a second at anorexia and body image issues that come from, pressure to be perfect, and sensitivity to what others say (youre fat</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">and worthless. ugly etc etc etc.) when you dread you must stop caring what others</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">think and only find the strength to know your true worth. and true</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">beauty does not require validation from shallow narrow minded people.</div></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span></div><span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">dreads give you confidence in yourself. in your worth. in your beauty and</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">value. and that your true value does not lie in your looks but in your</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">heart. dreads literally are wearing your heart on your sleeve. letting your</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">soul shine forcing people to look deeper within you...or look away.. it</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">repels the shallow while attracting the deep..</div></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span></div><span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">to dread you invite criticism. you gain the strength to not be so hurt</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center;">by ignorance. you find your own bliss and in that bliss you are</div></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 17px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size:13px;" ><div style="text-align: center; ">protected and cannot be easily harmed by the misery of others</div></span></span><br />As for my kids? <div><br /></div><div>My kids have learned how to respond and react to both the negative and the positive comments that I get about my hair. The littles will pat my hair or play with my dreadlocks while saying 'Mama beautiful'. The older kids will smile and laugh and usually start a conversation that is pretty opinion seeking. Just because they are teenagers, I suppose. They gotta get a jab in here and there. </div><div><br /></div><div>But, they have all learned by example. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, in a nutshell. I started my dreadlock journey to teach me patience, acceptance, and letting go of the little things. Picking my battles. Whats important and what isn't. And it's going really well. I feel a better parent. I know I'm calmer and more patient. I feel things so much deeper and with more thought. It has truly been a journey of me. A look inside my soul. And of who I really am, who I want to be and what I want my children to learn from me. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="line-height: 17px; ">August 2010</span></span></div></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fI5GOUVlSj0/TwY1xW8jNLI/AAAAAAAACDE/ADledc_BpuQ/s1600/Dreads1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 317px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fI5GOUVlSj0/TwY1xW8jNLI/AAAAAAAACDE/ADledc_BpuQ/s400/Dreads1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694297900945978546" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">November 2010</div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hg8IZpg4hjM/TwY1wsygStI/AAAAAAAACC4/P3h57L2Xrhw/s1600/Dreads6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hg8IZpg4hjM/TwY1wsygStI/AAAAAAAACC4/P3h57L2Xrhw/s400/Dreads6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694297889629555410" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">January 2011</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2HEIkwI4uao/TwY1wXqXQAI/AAAAAAAACCs/vmnJL4t71tY/s1600/Dreads7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2HEIkwI4uao/TwY1wXqXQAI/AAAAAAAACCs/vmnJL4t71tY/s400/Dreads7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694297883958263810" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">June 2011</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7tVzvUumVs/TwY1dQYTyqI/AAAAAAAACCg/stELK9lN2Jc/s1600/Dreads5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 274px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7tVzvUumVs/TwY1dQYTyqI/AAAAAAAACCg/stELK9lN2Jc/s400/Dreads5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694297555585976994" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">August 2011</div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CIPaWSbRvd8/TwY1c2NXLnI/AAAAAAAACCU/BjQljOAi1FQ/s1600/Dreads2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 287px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CIPaWSbRvd8/TwY1c2NXLnI/AAAAAAAACCU/BjQljOAi1FQ/s400/Dreads2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694297548560739954" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">December 2011</div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U40ezNH2FD4/TwY1cZL-NmI/AAAAAAAACCI/awQ_cwz5elA/s1600/Dreads3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 285px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U40ezNH2FD4/TwY1cZL-NmI/AAAAAAAACCI/awQ_cwz5elA/s400/Dreads3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694297540770281058" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What did I 'do'? Nothing. No chemicals. No hairbrushes. I use baking soda, apple cider vinegar and peppermint essentials oils on it about twice a week. Every other day, or whenever I'm bored and just watching TV, I separate the locks so they don't 'congo'. If you don't tear them apart they can all grow together and that would be really difficult to care for. </div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And that's it. Simple and beautiful. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Now, if I could just kick the ocd-ness of always having to have my house clean and picked up, I would be complete :) Oh well, I'm definitely a work-in-progress.</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-27430514627081598512012-01-01T21:38:00.000-08:002012-01-01T22:07:39.990-08:00A Whole New Year ::2012::<div style="text-align: center;">I meant to write this last night but completely forgot. I thought it would be cool since I started this blog on NYE 3 years ago. Oh well, maybe a good 'overview' post is waiting to climb outta this one. :) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We had no older kids at home for NYE so the 5 littles went to bed at 9pm and we pretty much vegetated on the couch until 2am. Watching 'Parenthood' (if you haven't seen it yet, DO. It's wonderful. We watch it on Netflix) and playing with Hazel (our bunny). </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It.was.awesome. And even awesome-r is that I didn't have to worry about the older kids at all. They were all safe at friends' homes'. No driving at all after 9pm. Best gift for the New Year for me, EVER. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So, back to my story. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ever since I was a little girl I wrote out my 'New Years Resolutions List'. Every year. I even have most of them saved still. I love to look at them. Pretty funny, the resolutions of a 13 year old girl :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This year, I decided, in addition of course to my regular list, to focus on one major thing that I wanted to really work on, for myself. Something that was just for me. I have a hard time doing that usually. I mean, of course, on my list is the usual 'be a better Mom, be more patient, spend more individual time with each of the kids' but that all involves others too. This 'resolution' doesn't. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I am going to learn everything that I can about photography. I want to make beautiful, artistic photos more than anything else I've ever wanted to do. Second only to being the best wife and mother that I can be. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I really want this. This photo that I took 2 days ago made me want this even more. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had a session with a client, a friends sister, right before the New Year. It went amazing. This is one of my shots of her daughter, Katie. I'm usually pretty critical of my work. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not this one.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I am so dang proud of this photo. I've been pretty much literally showing everyone (and yes, posting it on Facebook is the same thing as showing everyone these days :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Katie ♥</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a2Y-vl0Jcjc/TwFDO-p0FOI/AAAAAAAAB_s/ew-u8JicVd0/s1600/Polli1WM.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 265px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a2Y-vl0Jcjc/TwFDO-p0FOI/AAAAAAAAB_s/ew-u8JicVd0/s400/Polli1WM.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692905328588625122" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">So, what do I think of the New Year?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I think that 2012 is going to be amazing, beautiful, calm, loving, peaceful and happy. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And that my house is going to be full of alot of photographs. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I ♥ photography. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And I've said it before, but this time I'm doing it. I'm ordering myself a tee shirt. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">'Photography Is My Prozac'.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you haven't yet seen my photography blog, check it out :) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://nikkisemrophotography.blogspot.com/">Nikki Semro Photography</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(I'll be posting Katies' session, with her Mom, sister and brother, later this week. Watch for it!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-79557588041579310532011-11-30T11:31:00.000-08:002011-11-30T21:53:50.604-08:00I Am Thankful...Days 29 & 30<div style="text-align: center;">I can't even get the last 2 days on their own day. Good thing this 30 Days Of Thankful is over. I don't think I could have made it much longer. I'm not used to blogging daily. Pretty obvious huh?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yesterday I was Thankful for the break that my husband gave me. I got to sneak away for a few hours to visit a friend and have dinner. It was so very nice. We hit Taco Tuesday at the bar. Tacos and Diet Pepsis. We are party animals! Lol..I would post the pic that we took, we take one every time we go out, but it's got bad 'flash face'. We look like cats in the dark. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Today I am Thankful that I did this project. It's good for me to stop and reflect on things. I get so caught up in the stresses of my life that I completely lose my mind sometimes. Now I have this to look back on and help me realize that life is good. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Which is why I'm posting this video/song. Again. :) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I ♥ it. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jZhQOvvV45w" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-27610577769122452072011-11-28T22:01:00.000-08:002011-11-28T23:20:50.195-08:00I Am Thankful...Day 28<div style="text-align: center;">Today I am Thankful for my littles and their endless imaginations. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We started a tradition today. It's called<a href="http://www.elfontheshelf.com/"> Elf On A Shelf</a>. My little 5 are in heaven. Actually, it was pretty much a family affair this time. Madeline bought the Elf and the book this afternoon and we all sat down and watched the movie with popcorn and chocolate milk. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">While we were on our 2nd round of the movie, (yes, it's that good) the doorbell rang. Annie and Lilah ran to see who could possibly be at the door at night. She opened the door to a white box. I kid you not, her exact words were:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> 'It's a package. A white box with letters on it, now isn't that weird?'</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I almost laughed too hard. She asked me what it said on it. It said ' To: The S_______'s. Love: Santa.'</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">'MOM! OUR last name is THAT!' Lol..... 'Yes, Annie, it is' (she is so cute!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">They tore inside and ripped open the box. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm pretty sure our neighbors could hear the squeals of joy coming from all the of the girls, while Aaron, myself and the other 3 kids laughed. It was so wonderful to see such happiness and love on everyones face at once. A scene I so wished I had on film. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Anyway, THIS is who arrived this evening: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Meet Snowy Christmas Cookie Melt</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t7KXNNLrp0M/TtR7e7tpIII/AAAAAAAAB4Y/AOK2mYB9_6M/s400/MineElf.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680300801376460930" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 400px; " /><div style="text-align: center;">She is our very own adopted Elf. Every year she will come after Thanksgiving and keep watch over all of the house during the day. At night, she flies back to the North Pole and reports to Santa how everyone in the S_____ family has been each day. I'm hoping it starts to instill a habit of more kindness and peace, and less arguing (mostly with the youngest 5) throughout our home YEAR ROUND. Really, it's all I want for Christmas. No fighting. Ever. Ha, right? I know. :/</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The idea behind it is that once you take her/him out of the box and set her on the shelf, you must name her. Once she has her name, you can no longer touch her or she will lose her magic (at least, that's our adapted version of what us older kids got from the movie's intention. I can't imagine the arguing if 5 little girls had to share one Elf. No way. Better to keep the no touching or she'll lose her magic idea).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">At night, after she's reported her day to Santa, she returns and lands in a different spot so that she can watch everyone from different areas of the house. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And this is the part that I love...Only a child would be this thrilled to love that a tiny 12" Elf is watching her every move. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's magical. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Snowy Christmas Cookie Melt. Her name was decided by Annie and Lilah. The each liked a name so we put it together as one. And there was no arguing! It's starting already! ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Annable loves her 'beautiful blue eyes' and Lilah loves the 'red snowyflakes on her skirt'</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In the morning the girls will wake up and have to look to see where she landed for the day. I almost can't wait to hear the laughter when they start their search. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's like a tiny bit of Christmas morning every day until Christmas. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">♥</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-77518156290690890182011-11-27T22:59:00.000-08:002011-11-27T23:54:37.229-08:00I Am Thankful...Day 27<div style="text-align: center;">Today I am Thankful for the amazingly relaxing week we had. All the kids home, Aaron off for a few days and we had nothing to do and nowhere to go. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It.was.awesome.</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-71814289775585263132011-11-26T22:31:00.000-08:002011-11-26T22:45:50.299-08:00I Am Thankful...Day 26<div style="text-align: center;">Today I am Thankful that I didn't totally forget my baby sisters birthday. It's today. I just NOW remembered. At 10:30pm. I suck. I even SAW her today. My HUSBAND even remembered and THANKFULLY told her Happy Birthday. I totally suck. This is what happens when you never look at a calendar and your kids had an entire week off school so you had no reason to even know what DAY it was, let alone date. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So, I'm super sorry and I really cannot believe I forgot. :( I've NEVER forgotten her birthday. But I am Thankful that I remembered before it was tomorrow. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">*Happy Birthday sb*. I love you so much. And I'm sorry I forgot. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/CMwbG4pSHFc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-53965599812783626182011-11-25T21:52:00.000-08:002011-11-25T22:00:18.326-08:00I Am Thankful...Day 24 & 25<div style="text-align: center;">Backed up again. I have a good excuse this time. Thanksgiving. Then Black Friday shopping. My first time ever. And it was fantastic! We hit <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Walmart</span> and Target and got everything that we went there for. Even better? We decided to go to a newly built <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Walmart</span>, quite off the beaten path and it was pretty dang empty. Well, for a Black Friday event from what I hear. In and out in 40 minutes. Including paying. Then Target. It was a bit crazier but we did it again. Everything we went to get (no more, amazingly) and outta there in less than an hour. The Black Friday Gods were sure on our side last night. I am not only Thankful for having a wonderful first experience, but I was also so Thankful that most everyone was in good spirits and not rude. Rudeness, especially when you KNOW it's going to be crazy, just irritates me. Go, be happy, hope for the best, have a good time and BE NICE. That's what we did. And it worked :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Today, I am Thankful for my older kids. And all the babysitting that they do for us. Aaron and I were able to go out and get even more Christmas shopping done this afternoon thanks to them. Not only did we get to shop, we got to just 'hang out' together. Something we need to do more of. I LOVE our family and our babies but sometimes it sure is nice to be alone, doing regular stuff. Getting more shopping done, though was awesome. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This may be the first year ever that we are done shopping before Christmas Eve. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">MAY BE. </div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163690773800662994.post-33509524526935121172011-11-23T22:55:00.000-08:002011-11-23T22:57:04.558-08:00I Am Thankful...Day 23<div style="text-align: center;">Today is a little thing. Today I am extremely grateful, I mean Thankful, for being able to do some of my Christmas shopping online. Not only is it easier, I save so much money with online deals/specials and coupon codes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">How did I ever shop before the internet?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519322258177958865noreply@blogger.com0