warmth

It sure is getting colder.  All of the rooftops were frosty this morning.  I have been advocating a lower temperature inside our house too.  The way the thermostat is set now, the heat only kicks on if the temp in the house dips below 65 degrees.  I don't know why, but I just associate warm stuffy houses with germ production.  Do you think that there is any truth to that?  In any event, I think that I have only heard the heat kick on a couple of times. And although the utility bill is noticeably lower- my family grumbles about this from time to time.  I like to sleep with the window open- Carl does not.  The girls come to the breakfast table each morning glaring at me as they wrap themselves in blankets from their beds.  Me, I find it kind of cozy wearing big squishy socks and an extra layer here and there.  In fact, I have stayed quite comfortably warm (except for my feet which always seem to be cold when I slip into bed at night- no matter though because I just sneak them over to Carl's side.  They are warm in no time!)

So yes, I am thankful for warmth.  Warmth that comes from soft cottony sweaters,

   

(yep, I am pretty sure that Laurel is picking her nose there.)

warmth from this super-de-dooper yummy white chocolate/peppermint cocoa,

   

and this little snuggling moment under a blanket on the couch with Laurel brought warmth inside and out. Don't you just want to eat up that little dimple on her elbow? 

Warmth to you on these chilly days.

looking and finding

I found myself looking for things to be thankful for yesterday knowing that I had promised to share some with you each time I post.  Indeed they were everywhere to be seen. Here are a few I found:

Lovely trees that flicker in the breeze and sprinkle down golden leaves.

Boiled eggs. By far one of the most nutritious, compact (with biodegradable packaging), kid friendly, easily packed whole food around.

"Adventure hikes" by the river, where Hannah leads (only possible because Emma was at school) and Laurel doing what she does best- picking up rocks and dirt. Hannah wouldn't let us linger very long in any one spot...she kept saying, "c'mon mom- keep it movin' ".  Just like her Grandma Karen.

The opportunity to Introduce Laurel to her shadow. I couldn't catch her waving.

And finally, a few stolen snuggles and smooches from this girl.  Anyone recognize her?

Thank you all so much for sharing your own personal grattitudes with me.  I love reading your comments and look forward to it each day!!

November= Thankfulness

I am as excited as the next person about the coming of the Christmas Holiday. I love giving and receiving gifts.  I eagerly anticipate gathering with family.  The jubilation my children express when the first snow arrives is contagious.  Their faces light up as each tree ornament is pulled from the box and rediscovered.  On and on I could go about the miracle that is Christmas.  However, what the heck happened to celebrating Thanksgiving?????  Already we are bombarded with ads in the newspaper and on TV telling us about all the great deals to be had on the "stuff" that has somehow seemed to replace the true meaning of Christmas.  My neighbors actually put up their Christmas lights last weekend. (They haven't turned them on yet...and they may not be all that stupid putting them up when it is not 9 degrees outside- but still.) 

 

I made this little banner a while back and now that it is officially November, I put it up last weekend.  It wasn't my idea...I hacked it from here. I hesitated in linking that picture because their version is way cuter.  I made the squares from wool felt and the letters were cute using a stencil and fat quarters that I thought looked autumn-ish.  I sewed them on raw edges and all.  It is hanging from a garden twine rope. ( a bit uneven too- the ladder was fairly wobbly, I wanted to get off it as soon as possible.)

Above our door it hangs in the hopes that it encourages us to be grateful for ALL that we have.  So many times we take simple things like a new toothbrush or clean socks for granted.  The big things slip by too- health, family, freedom.  I want my family to slow down and really give thanks for what has been given to us. 

So, for the rest of November (or at least until Thanksgiving) each time I post I would like to include at least one thing- and a picture too, of something (people, moments, and yes things) that I am thankful for. 

First up, I am thankful that my girls like to wash dishes for me. I do hover somewhat nervously as the water gets splashed about, and some food bits get passed over (good for the immune system right?) but I am thankful that they are willing to help out.

It was funny to watch the progression of wetness take over.  First, they wanted their sleeves rolled up.  Next, the socks came off.  Then, we lost the pants.  Finally, when I turned my back for moment Hannah actually disrobed completely and was sitting in the sink (she put the plug in the drain.)  That is where I drew the line.  Washing dishes in the buff is too much for me.  Its important to me that we work as a team and all pitch in.  This is a great way that they can play work :)  What are you thankful for?