Might have to admit...

...I've been sick for the last 24 hours. I hate it when I really feel lousy, but can't quite put my finger on what I'm feeling. My wonderful husband offered to stay home today, but I didn't feel like that was necessary. What I did think was necessary though, was sleeping all day. Fortunately, HT stayed right with so I didn't have to worry about him, and I pretty much dozed only enough to wake up every 10 minutes to look at him. It is one nice thing about the kids being older...I don't have to worry about them quite as much. I feel better this evening, and I'm looking forward to another good night sleep. Hopefully tomorrow I'll be back at it!

Longaberger

Some people might say that I have an obsessive personality...and some who read this blog might agree. My latest obsession is Longaberger baskets. I absolutely, absolutely love them! They are really expensive, but they are heavy duty baskets that hold up through just about anything. The one rule I've always pretty much had is that if I buy a basket, I must be able to have a practical use for it. About once a year I break that rule to buy a basket that only pertains to a particular holiday. Lately, I've been buying on ebay. And I mean buying! I've been able to get some really, really good deals on some good sized baskets, which are the best kind for our house! I love decorative storage options! And when I buy them new, I can always tell myself that I'm helping the Ohio economy since they are made a few hours from here. I'm hoping this summer to be able to take a trip and visit the headquarters...but maybe I should leave the credit cards at home!

Out and about

The sun is shining again...it's like the fifth day in a row! I know that probably doesn't seem noteworthy, but that's how crazy we were all beginning to feel about February! Our weekend has been really nice. The Pinewood Derby was yesterday. No trophies were brought home by our family, but the kids had fun and, most importantly, were good sports. Last night was dinner and drinks with some very good friends. It was exactly the relaxing evening I needed after such an emotionally draining week. Even a week later, I can be going along and suddenly get teary and choked up thinking about our friends. But last night it was so wonderful to just sit and visit and watch a couple of funny movies. Today we had church and lunch out, and since it is such a gorgeous day out (sunny AND warm) my wonderful husband is taking the kids to the woods for a hike. I'm so grateful because I haven't slept well in the last week, and I could use a few moments of quiet and maybe even a nap! We have a busy week coming up, but nothing terribly exciting. Looking forward to a pleasant week.

Sunshine and baseball

If I wasn't careful, I might think Spring was just around the corner. Hard to believe, but it might really be! It's our second day of beautiful sunshine. Even last night at dinner, JC made the comment that it was still sunny out and she was very excited about that. This afternoon at 2:30, the Reds play their first preseason game, and it's even on TV! So excited!

Amazing strength

Today was the memorial service for beautiful little six month old Tommy. It was an amazing service. Both of his parents spoke, two aunts, and his great-grandfather after whom he is named. I am just in awe of the strength his parents are showing. Their faith is inspiring. I know that there is still so much pain ahead of them, and I pray for their continued strength and comfort. I can't imagine how they are doing it...I'm so completely drained and I'm removed from the immediate situation. May God have mercy on their family.

Dare to Dream

Today is sunny...the sun is actually out, at least for a little bit. It's not supposed to last, and it isn't supposed to get warm enough for much snow to melt today. Saturday though. Now Saturday, the high is supposed to be 46 degrees, and very sunny. The meteorologist even said last night that if the conditions are right, we could even see 50. I'm almost giddy! Dare to dream for such beautiful weather!

The next day

Today is the day after I learned about the tragedy my friends are enduring, and there is a calmer and more peaceful feeling in my heart today. I've been hugging my kids tighter, and I'm remembering to be more grateful, even when they are yelling/crying/complaining. They are a beautiful blessing in our lives.

On a happier note, March has begun and we are actually able to see the grass outside. It's quite an accomplishment around here! It's not going to warm up significantly, but knowing that there is no major snow in the forecast is a good feeling. We are looking forward to Spring!