out of town

I've been out of town, thus not posting. I hope everyone had an amazing Christmas! Keep celebrating- 12 days of Christmas? Do we not celebrate the birth of a child beyond day 1?


I'm still excited about working towards being a doula. However, while I work towards that, I want to get a job- even PT. I want to have time to keep my house up and volunteer, but I want to help us get rid of the debt we have from our pasts.

I hope everyone has a great new year! My goal- prayer! I will pray more, really work on my relationship with God.

Career searching

This is something I don't think I've talked to much about. My degree is in music education, but I know I don't want to teach- especially in the public school setting. However, 37K student loans require payment, which requires a job! But currently my loans are on hold (as I'm jobless) and I'm searching for what my passions are. I talked on the phone with a life coach/family friend who helped me figure out some things. I wanted to share this.

What drives you? <-- Many people think "Money" but in reality- money motivates us (b/c we want to care for our family, etc) but MONEY itself isn't the actual drive. We just want to have it.
--- What makes you ticked off? What makes you happy? - Solving this can help you figure out what you truly care about. I narrowed mine down to
a- Personal (human) dignity. The TSA stuff with the full body scanners and pat downs makes me livid. Why? B/c i see it as an infringment of our rights and human dignity.
b- education of women- in terms of their own body, their rights, etc. For example, I am using Natural Family Planning (NFP). It's about seeing what the woman's body does naturally (it TELLS you when you are fertile!) and using these signs appropriately. If you want babies- now is the time to do it! If not, then you shouldn't right now! Women should know the harms of birth control, inducing labor, and other things. We need to be educated about our choices!
c- my faith.I want to do what is right, and help encourage others to do what is right- through education!

I always knew education was important to me (my major!) but what I was not sure. But as I talked to this friend, I narrowed down some fields I may be interested in learning more about. One of them being a Doula or labor assistant. I've never been in the labor room, but I have been reading and researching about choices there are and what they mean- I find it interesting to know how it works. Women have been birthing babies since the beginning of time! Why suddenly are we trying to control it? Our controlling it is HARMING the baby and mother!
I contacted a local Doula and she sounds great- we talked and got along really well. She gave me some information. I'm hoping to sit in on some of her meetings/classes to see what she does and how I enjoy it. She's actually converting right now to Catholicism and is interested in incorporating NFP into her practice! She is working with CAPPA on a program that she thinks it right up my alley in terms of interesting and morals. I'm excited to learn about it and I'm really thinking I'm called to this.My dad is offering to pay half the price of the coursework, should I chose to follow this.

It also makes me happy- it's a blend of what I believe and my values with my parents faith and values (more new age/naturalistic).

So this is where I am now!

Give-a-way

Giveaway Wine Cork

Check it out! Her work it very cute and I hope I can win one! Or else I'll have to go buy one sometime!

No reading

Those who blog- how did you get people to read? Does it matter to you if people read it?

I know I don't have people reading mine- maybe 1-2 people occasionally. Which is fine, but sometimes I need advice! I ask on here, but then if no one is reading.... yeah. Doesn't work so well!

demons?

 

(from http://www.parascientifica.com/articles.php?a=89)

Do you believe in Demons? Do they effect us? Can they "mess" with us? How? How do you recognize it? How do you deal with it?

Is it real?

T believes so. I'm scared to.

And I'm not!

This picture is pretty. :-) Trying to remember to think about Jesus and the scenario he came to our world in. I love the song "Mary, Did you know?" b/c it talks about it.

So, not pregnant. Good news, I suppose. I'm really torn... I am excited for motherhood and I hope for it. However, I really need to find out where I want to be in life. I feel obligated to find a career, but I don't know what I want to work in. I'm trying to make an appointment with a Doula to learn about it and see if it's something I'm interested in.I want to be a SAHM.... but, T's salary is small and It'd be nice to have the extra income- especially since there is no child right now! 

People talk about being "called" to something...I wish I knew what I was called to. I don't hear God. I don't know where I am supposed to be!

T is sick with the flu- I've been with him for 4.5 years and I don't think I've ever seen him sick with anything except sinus stuff. Poor baby. I've been trying to take care of him. 

This weekend we went dress shopping for Reba's bridesmaids dresses. The number one pick so far I like a lot. It's not up on David's web page yet though, or I'd post it.

Mary, did you know?

Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you.

Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
And when you kiss your little baby, you have kissed the face of God.

The blind will see, the deaf will hear and the dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak, the praises of the lamb.

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding is the great I am.

My favorite version is by Michael Crawford.

laundry day

Yeah... so the response is what I figured! Fair enough- I don't post often enough and don't have anyone reading this, but I'm ok with that. After all- half of blogging is to keep the self sane!

Today is laundry day!I'm not sure how T and I go through so much laundry in a week!I usually do a mid-week quick wash, and I didn't this week. On top of clothes, gotta wash the towels, dish towels, bed linens, etc! Meanwhile, I'm wasting time on FB (bad Lori!) and figuring out student loans. Ugh! I hate student loans. Very much! I might watch another episode on netflix of Jane Eyre.

And I'm still using my new homemade recipes for dishes (oh yeah! Got some of those to do too!) and laundry and I like them!

pregnancy and whatnot

So, I've been putting off writing. I'm not sure why. Busy, then without internet over Thanksgiving.... yeah. No good excuse here.

My big thing, which I haven't wanted to write about is my lack of a period.


I do Natural Family Planning, but we are not using it to determine sex or not. It's so I can keep up with what my period is doing. I have irregular, but after charting 4 cycles, I can see I have some regularity. But, my cycle lengths have been 40, 28, 34, 30, and now... ? I usually only have 8-10 days after ovulation before my period starts. However, I haven't been charting long, and I know my body has always been irregular.
Right now I am 19 days after ovulation. I took a pregnancy test on day (after ovulation) 13 and 17. Both Negative.
I am not having morning sickness. I was cramping a bit yesterday and today but so far no blood. (I thought I was starting.) I think my hormones are crazy (from either pregnancy or really late period) and I've been feeling really depressed and I'm super stressed about not knowing what's going on. People don't seem to understand "wait another week" feels like eternity. It should show up on tests, or else I should be pregnant. I'm ok with either- I really am. I just want to know. I'm scared, a bit.

I know a lot of you don't comment, but please.... what do I do?!?!

Thanksgiving challenge

I've been thinking about this, but not logging on to blogger as often as I ought. But, I should keep trying it out!

Today I'm thankful for friends. I am thankful there are people who know me- even the ugly sides of me- and love me anyways. I am scared of losing them, as we move off in different directions (2 of my bridesmaids and closest friends are moving out of state in the next 2 months) but I am thankful that I have them now.

Bible study challenge

One of my friends on facebook is doing a bible study challenge. Here is mine for today

Hebrews 10:24-25 (New International Version)

24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

As a Catholic, I'm not supposed to miss church- but I never understood why. Sure, keep the Sabbath holy- I can pray at home. So what? I don't feel like getting dressed, going out, being an example to the children today. (I sub at the Catholic school so I see many of my kids there, plus I work with the youth group.) I don't want to sing in the choir today- I just wanna relax!
This, old testament mind you, verse, reminds me of why we go to church. Why we worship together. For many many reasons, but to encourage each other. This is why all the church "extra-curriculars" are so important. Sure, one girl- new, in the choir, in a weird age right now (newly married, no kids-- I find it hard to make a lot of friends!) 1 hour of church a week- no one will get to know me. As I get involved -the choir, volunteering, going to dinners at the church and talks, I will get to know others. I will be encouraged and be able to offer encouragement to others.

Help the Steiners!

This family needs our prayers. And actions.

http://plainpamsblog.blogspot.com/2010/11/heartfelt-plea.html?spref=fb

Thanksgiving 4

Today, I am thankful for my church community. I am thankful for being able to substitute at a school affiliated with my faith- to work with and know people in my community and church. They help hold me accountable.

Thanksgiving day 3

Today, I am thankful for my health. I am thankful that I am healthy- even though I am overweight, have a lot of possible-bad-genetics coming my way, I am thankful.

Tonight we had a breast cancer awareness event- a fundraiser and small musicale for those in the middle GA area. SAI, my women's music fraternity I was in during college, sang at it, they had some speakers speak, etc. I got asked to sing kinda last min, since I was in town, and knew 1 of the 2 songs.

I have an amazing friend named April. We played flute together in band and woodwind ensemble. She was always quiet, and we used to joke I was teaching her how to be "a flute diva" for when I left. Well, my last semester (while I was student teaching) she got diagnosed with breast cancer- age 24. It was scary and I couldn't be there as much as I wanted to be- or should have been. I offered to do a lot and be there, but I didn't push my way into it- and she never asked for it. She played flute at my wedding and it was beautiful.

I started a thing called "KAIMP" Keeping April In My Prayers. I got a bunch of our classmates to put it at the end of our statuses on FB- to remind her we were thinking of her and praying. She loved it. As she went through treatments, we assumed she was getting better, and it slowly got dropped. She was active in any breast cancer awareness things... we (SAI and many groups on campus) hosted our annual "breast cancer awareness musicale- loving named BCAM" in dedication of her. We sold KAIMP ribbons. It was great- and she spoke.

Some people in middle ga started a book. http://www.blessyousister.com/ is the link- please check it out! It has the stories of survivors from all over middle GA (and even all of GA, I think.) I never purchased it- I kept a distance I guess- cancer scares me. I only knew April, and she and I grew apart as she is often tired and at the doctor.

Tonight, at the event at GCSU, it really hit me. I'm not there enough. I hung out with her some and we just talked- picked up like the old days. She introduced me to one of her survivor friends and said "This is Lori. the one I thanked at the end of my story in the book."

My jaw dropped. I haven't been  enough, not by a long shot. I was humbled by her love- her graituted for all the love I gave. And I wish I gave more.

Well, recently, they found more cancer. She's stage 4. She will be traveling to ATL to Emory for experimental treatments as they try to get rid of it.

I'm bringing KAIMP back. I'm being there for her in the ways I can. She inspires me.

I'm thankful for my health. I'm thankful for April, for KAIMP!

Making my own laundry and dish detergent, fabric softener sheets

I don't remember if I wrote about it, but here it is again!

From the Duggar family www.duggarfamily.com

Powdered Laundry Detergent - Top load machine

1   Fels-Naptha soap bar
1  Cup - Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½  Cup Borax

-Grate soap or break into pieces and process in a food processor until powdered. Mix all ingredients. For light load, use 1 Tablespoon. For heavy or heavily soiled load, use 2 Tablespoons. Yields: 3 Cups detergent. (Approx. 40 loads)

*Arm & Hammer "Super Washing Soda" - in some stores or may be purchased online here (at Meijer.com). Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent - It must be sodium carbonate!!

TIPS FOR LAUNDRY SOAP: We use Fels-Naptha  bar soap in the homemade soap recipes, but you can use Ivory, Sunlight, Kirk's Hardwater Castile or Zote bars. Don't use heavily perfumed soaps. We buy Fels-Naptha by the case from our local grocer or online. Washing Soda and Borax can often be found on the laundry or cleaning aisle. Recipe cost approx. $2 per batch.

I'm using the Fels-naptha b/c it was in the same section as Borax. -.-

And then for dishwasher detergent.

1 part powder dish washing detergent, cheap (dollar store!)

1 part borax

1 part baking soda

mix well. use 3T per load of laundry. 

 I've heard you can put vinegar in the jet dry area to help brighten up dishes.

-----------------------------------------------

Inexpensive Fabric Softener Recipes (also from the Duggar family!)

Recipe #1
1  Cup White Vinegar
Add vinegar to rinse cycle. Works great. Removes residue and odors. Also helps to keep washing machine and hoses fresh and clean too.

Recipe #2

1  Container of Name Brand Fabric Softener
4  Inexpensive sponges, cut in half

Pour entire container of softener into a 5 gallon bucket. Fill empty softener container with water twice. (2 parts water to 1 part softener) Add sponges to softener/water mixture. When ready to use wring out extra mixture from one sponge and add to the dryer as you would a dryer sheet.

I'm doing recipe 2. I'm not doing 5 gallons either :D

thanksgiving day 2

I'm thankful for the church, especially my church- St. Joseph. I am thankful for the chance to sing in the choir and to be part of something bigger! I'm thankful I have the opportunity to receive Jesus weekly and the chance to be forgiven!

CLOROX VERSUS PEROXIDE

http://agodlyhomemaker.blogspot.com/2010/11/just-sharing.html

I found this interesting and insightful! Thanks!

Things I'm thankful for, and a good link

http://blushingbrideguide.blogspot.com/2010/10/top-ten.html "The Top 10 Things I Learned in My First Year of Marriage"

It was a good list. Check it out!!

Also, I see many people doing a thankful for list daily.I don't post daily, but let's see how I can do!

I'm thankful for the ability to vote, and the ability to look for candidates who support the things I support. We are lucky to live in the USA where we can vote!

Check out a giveaway

http://www.dontwasteyourhomemaking.com/2010/11/giveaway-1.html

Don't waste your homemaking is having their first giveaway! A cookbook called "Deceptively Delicious". Check it out!

Not much to say!

I haven't written in a while- sorry about that! Halloween party was fun, but I think I got a bit of food poisoning but I feel better now. We did fondue and I think I didn't cook a piece of chicken enough or something. I also ate too much cheese. Blah!

That's the final of my costume. I'm the one on the left. Holding the baby is one of my good friends Angela. That's her 1 year old daughter. The dress was made by Angela (or her mom) a while ago for a wedding. She is the one who taught me how to make the bonnet (and she made hers!)I had to put a shirt underneath b/c it was kind of see-through. I hope it's good. I liked having a modest costume this year!

I want to sew something else! It was fun!

When God leaves you

http://www.spirituallyunequalmarriage.com/my_weblog/2010/10/when-gods-not-there.html

Really enlightening!

Giveaway- DVD "The Art of Crafting"

I found http://thewestladies.blogspot.com/2010/10/art-of-crafting-dvd-giveaway.html and they are doing a giveaway for this DVD. Check it out!

Sewing

For my halloween costume, I didn't want to feel pressured to look skanky, so I decided to do a frontier woman type outfit. Actually, I just wanted an excuse to make a bonnet :P

Anyways, I don't know how to sew, so I went to my friend Angela's house. She's really good a sewing. She is working on a Little Bo Peep costume and was making a bonnet also! The pattern was easy- just a big circle with elastic in it! I wanted an apron also so I made up my own pattern and went for it. Here is the final product.

It's kinda hard to see. Anyways, I'm very proud of my first sewing adventure! I got a sewing machine from another friend, and so I brought it to Angela's. She helped me clean it up and taught me on it. Now I got a nice little sewing corner in my living room! Unfortunately, I don't have any cloth to sew! hehe. But, I have been fixing some of T's clothing- a pair of jeans has a huge hole in the pocket, so I cut the bottom part off and sewed a new bottom! Didn't think to take pictures!

Anyways, that's about it right now!

Nope!

I guess I was imagining the signs...

Things on my mind

I've gotten into this (annoying) habit of waking up at 4:30 to go to the bathroom, and then not falling back asleep! I want my last 2 hours of sleep, darn it! ;-)

Anyways, I believe I have mentioned it before, my husband and I are "not preventing, but not trying" for a baby. There IS a chance this month, and it's driving me crazy because I want to know. It's only 8 days after ovulation, and I should wait for at least 10-11 to take a test. I'm also trying to convince myself to wait and see if I miss a period or not--> I mean, I can't start writing a pregnancy test into my monthly budget :P that just seems silly. Now I'm noticing signs (some people call them 'symptoms' which I avoid, as it implied an illness!) and I don't know if I am 'making them up' because I want to be, or if it's possible... it's hard to imagine it could be possible!!!!

I've been questioning things about the church a lot lately. Not a bad thing alone, but it's odd that suddenly I'm so defensive and confused about things that never bothered me.... the devil at work? Or me just being a little concerned--> I don't throw myself into faith- and whenever I do, I always end up questioning and doubting things. I've turned very conservative in the past year and maybe I resent it a little....which leads me to my next thought.

I was doing well losing weight, the few months before the wedding. I got myself together and just did it. And after the wedding I dropped doing it. Now I need to pick it up, and it's so difficult! I guess part of me doesn't want to- I don't want to give up pizza and coffee and cheese! And I want to lose weight for when I have kids--> I don't want to be a bad example. And as silly as it is, I want people to be able to tell  I am pregnant by looking at me- not just fat! I don't want to be pregnant but just look fat.
Of course, I may be stuck here. 0.0 If I am. Which I don't know.

Anyways, these are the things on my mind today. Any words of wisdom?

An interesting post I read on covering

Check it out here.

I was browsing some websites of family-integrated churches in our state, and came across one which had "What about women's headcoverings?" in their Q&A section.  It was a pretty short list, so at first glance I was somewhat impressed that the topic had made the cut.  The answer began by saying than they had been contacted several times with inquiries about headcoverings, and they rather dismissively responded by saying: "The apostle Paul clearly states that a woman's hair is sufficient covering in 1 Cor. 11:15:  'But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering.'"


her whole post is really good and insightful.


I don't want to do it full-time. I hardly do the part time. But I keep finding it, keep reading about it.

tattoos and prayers

My SIL and MIL got tattoos a few weeks ago. Something was wrong at the place I guess.... both got nasty staff absesses and MIL has already gotten surgery done on it- shes finally out of the hospital (had to spend 5 nights) and has a tube in her back to a machine to get rid of the infection. She's going in for treatments several times a month for the next few. My SIL has it too and is going to a surgeon soon too. It's about $50,000 so far in treatment for MIL and I assume similar to SIL. I know MIL doesn't have health insurance and I don't think SIL does.

They (obviously) plan to sue. Still, please pray for their health and for the money to come.

Fireproof

T and I rented this movie because I had heard it was a movie all Christian couples should see. It wasn't quite what I expected, but it was good. It was more about a man coming to his faith and fixing his relationship with his wife when divorce was imminent. I thought it would be more about a man finding faith and him leading his wife- not so dire I suppose. Anyways, I am rewatching as I do laundry and blog!

"John Holt: Caleb, if I had to ask you why you're so frustrated with Catherine, what would you say?
Caleb Holt: She's stubborn. She makes everything difficult for me. She's ungrateful. She's constantly griping about something.
John Holt: Has she thanked you for anything you've done in the last 20 days?
Caleb Holt: No! And you'd think after I washed the car, changed the oil, do the dishes, washed the house, that she would try to show me a little bit of gratitude, but she doesn't. In fact, when I come home, she makes me feel like I'm an enemy! I'm not even welcome in my own home, dad! That is what really ticks me off! Dad, for the last three weeks I have bent over backwards for her! I have tried to demonstrate that I still care about this relationship. I bought her flowers, which she threw away. I have taken her insults and her sarcasm, but last night was it. I made dinner for her. I did everything I could to demonstrate that I care about her, to show value for her, and she spat in my face! She does not deserve this, dad! I am not doing it anymore! How am I supposed to show love to somebody over and over and over, who constantly rejects me?
John Holt: [John Holt strokes the wooden cross, and turns to Caleb] That's a good question.
Caleb Holt: Dad, that is not what I'm doing.
John Holt: Is it?
Caleb Holt: No. Dad, that is not what this is about.
John Holt: Son, you just asked me: how can someone show love over and over again when they're constantly rejected? Caleb, the answer is: you can't love her, because you can't give her what you don't have. I couldn't truly love your mother until I understood what love truly was. It's not because I get some reward out of it. I've now made a decision to love your mother whether she deserves it or not. Son, God loves you, even though you don't deserve it. Even though you've rejected Him. Spat in His face. God sent Jesus to die on the cross for your sin, because He loves you. The cross was offensive to me, until I came to it. But when I did, Jesus Christ changed my life. That's when I truly began to love your mom. Son, I can't settle this for you. This is between you and the Lord. But I love you too much not to tell you the truth. Can't you see that you need Him? Can't you see that you need His forgiveness?
Caleb Holt: Yes.
John Holt: Will you trust Him with your life?
[Caleb nods; yes]"

After a long weekend

Hey everyone. I hope all is well.

This was a long weekend for us- T took Friday off work and we drove to AL for my granddaddy's funeral. I had never been to a burial/funeral where there was a wake- just memorial services for the cremated. It was weird, to see him lying there... it didn't look like him to me. It was difficult. My dad did the eulogy and he did a great job- he had people send him their memories of granddaddy and it was fun to be reminded of him before he was ill.

I got to meet a bunch of my step-family that I had never met, or only met once. I made many new "friends" with family and I hope to get to know them better as the years come.

Today, I meet with my personal trainer at 9:30. It is currently 8am and I'm trying to get the excitement to commit. He wants me to be super excited, many goals at once... he is "tough love" about it all. It works for me (sometimes) if I feel the person cares if I lose weight or not- but right now it's just difficult. I want to commit. I want to be able to do it. I want to want to do it. Heh. What music do you listen to while working out? What motivates you? I want to know what others do.

 I got a lot on my mind, and I may write later about some of the other things.

Thoughts for today

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...darkness- I'm up way too early!

I am thinking...I wish I could have stayed asleep past 3:45am.

I am thankful for... my wonderful husband and a loving God!

From the kitchen... I made some pumpkin bread yesterday. It came out a bit dense, but is really good toasted with butter.

I am wearing...PJs

I am creating...a home

I am going... to take T to work, pick up a friend from her dropping her rental car off, going to the gym... church photo, and solomn rosary tonight!

I am reading...Lord of the Rings.

I am hoping... that I feel well rested, and that I can work on getting healthier again.

I am hearing...my neighbors are awake... I didn't know anyone got up this early :P

Around the house... overall fairly clean, lots of deep cleaning left to do.

One of my favorite things... cool Autumn mornings

A few plans for the rest of the week... church stuff, pack, go to AL for funeral

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing... A candle a friend lit at the wedding, now (for me) a memory of my grandfather.

Weight loss and goal setting

I haven't talked about weight loss on here much, but it's something I've been dealing/struggling with for a long time now. I started at 240 (I'm not afraid of talking about numbers... *shrug*) I went wedding dress shopping at around 222. At my wedding I was 208- I actually lost enough where my dress was almost too big! That was a nice surprise.

Anyways, I have a gym membership and I meet with a trainer 3X/month. During July and August I quit going- I was out of town, wedding planning, and he was getting married the week after me. So the past couple of weeks we picked up working out again- now he has gotten a "real" job and so I'm switching to a new guy named Michael. I'm a little nervous. I'm up to 214 as of this morning. I'm hoping a little of it is muscle gain, but I know I have been overeating again. I was (when I lost the 222--> 208) taking a pill called Slim Xtreme. I normally do NOT advocate diet pills. This is all natural (no caffeine). It's mostly an appetite suppressant. It is 1 pill/day and it starts working immediately! Taking that plus eating healthy, you can easily lose 10-20 pounds in the first month.

Most of my husband's aunts were on it and having great results, so I tried it out. I just kinda stopped around the wedding. So I'm picking that back up too. I know his aunts are very particular- I think 3 of them took it to their doctors to get it okayed as not going to give problems... once again, all natural. One even looked at it under a microscope. All good there!

Anyways, I trust it pretty well, and it works. I just need to work on the whole eating healthier thing. I need to eat much less in carbs, and eat more fruits and veggies. I don't know why this is so hard for me! It's something I need to work on. I know that if I want children in the near future, I need to be healthy and in healthy eating habits for the baby.

Coupon-ing failure

Failure might be too harsh of a term. But, I tried it out. I was full of this Sunday's coupons plus some online coupons. I was all excited-- until I got to the store and realized everything I needed wasn't really in my coupons. Silly me- you think I would have paid attention. I did get some really good deals- on pasta and cheese. But I still spent a whopping 72 dollars (rather that 89). I didn't even get meat!

So yeah. I need to re-study up on this. Check the webpages better, get more coupons. And NOT BUY THINGS just because I have the coupon for it!

Thoughts on abortion and NFP

First thing: I'm having a lot of trouble with blogger- it says "service unavailable" a lot and won't load... anyone else?

Anyway, to my topic. On the thought of "Respect Life Sunday" yesterday, a forgotten part of "respecting life" is the conception part. First of all- our society has created a very negative image of pregnancy. Even the word. Pregnancy. We impregnate a cow. Preggers- that term makes me angry! It sounds dumb. You can google "symptoms of pregnancy"--> doesn't that sound like a disease?! What happened to "with child"? Doesn't that sound happier? We don't celebrate life- it's a fight, here in America. Trying to get insurance to cover the birth, trying to get maternity or paternity leave... it's a fight.

Life begins at conception. Period. As such, abortion is wrong- the act of killing a unborn child (Intentional, as compared to accidental- miscarriage.) There is no "choice" in the matter- unless you believe in killing others because they inconvenience you- because you invite them into your home--> Yes, the sexual act is an invitation to your world. You wouldn't tell a friend "Hey- drop by sometime." and then kill them when they come over, b/c you are "too busy." 

I am "pro-choice." I am pro choice as in "you made the CHOICE to have sex.... you CHOSE sex---> something that gives life. You chose life." If you want to chose to not have a child, please, don't have sex.

I am practicing NFP- natural family planning. For those who are unfamiliar with the process, this is what it is.

The female body releases an egg part way through the cycle- this we call ovulation. The body, in preparation for this, creates mucus. The point of the mucus is to help sperm live for more than a few minutes/ 1 day. Otherwise, without mucus, pregnancy would be very rare! You would have to have sex basically as you ovulate!... So in NFP we watch the mucus. When it's there, and the more fertile type, you know ovulation is coming. The couple would abstain during the time if they were wanting to not conceive.  We also chart temperature- it helps us know when ovulation happens, and we can use it to determine pregnancy. The charting of mucus and temperature takes a whopping 1 min a day for me. It's not a big deal. 

It's 98-99 percent effective. More so than birth control pills and condoms- most women are not taught simple things about the pill such as "you need to take it at the exact same time, every day." If you miss, the % goes down. Let's not mention the unpleasurable side effects of the pill- I found this page  which I am not familiar with, but lists more links to the pill than I have heard of. The pill will at least admit to, according to epigee

"Are there any side effects or health complications associated with hormonal birth control?
There are a number of side effects and potential health risks associated with the use of hormonal contraceptives.

•  
  • Weight gain
  • Increase or decrease in acne
  • Nausea and vomiting (particularly for the first few cycles)
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Depression
  • Vaginal infections
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of libido
  • Blood clots in legs, lungs, heart or brain
  • Stroke
  • Liver tumors (rare)
  • Heart attacks
  • Gallstones (rare)
  • Jaundice (rare)
  • Possibly cervical cancer
  • Spotting and irregular vaginal bleeding
  • Longer periods
  • Amenorrhea for extend periods
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety and nervousness
  • Pain in lower abdominals
  • Dizziness
  • Loss of libido
  • Depression
  • Increase or decrease in acne
  • Skin rash or darkened patches of skin
  • Appetite changes
  • Weight gain
  • Tender breasts
  • Increase or decrease in facial and body hair
  • Possibly hair loss
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Bone density loss
  • Enlarged ovarian follicles
  • Pain or itching (usually for a brief period of time)
  • Norplant users: infection at the site of implantation
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Certain cancers"

 Well, let's say you want to take the pill anyways- desipite all the side effects. Well, we determined that life begins at conception- when sperm and egg meet. Let's see what webmd says about how BC pill works.

"Hormonal contraceptives (the pill, the patch, and the vaginal ring) all contain a small amount of synthetic estrogen and progestin hormones. These hormones work to inhibit the body's natural cyclical hormones to prevent pregnancy. Pregnancy is prevented by a combination of factors. The hormonal contraceptive usually stops the body from releasing an egg from the ovary. Hormonal contraceptives also change the cervical mucus to make it difficult for the sperm to find an egg. Hormonal contraceptives can also prevent pregnancy by making the lining of the womb inhospitable for implantation. "

I bolded a line. Any guess why? It is not PREVENTING PREGNANCY.... if sperm and egg meet (thus life is given, by God), and then as part of your I-don't-want-to-have-a-baby plan you take this pill that forces the body to thicken the lining, so the womb is "inhospitable for implantation" then the newly formed baby does what? died... The baby is aborted, because you asked your body to- no, forced your body to. It's an abortion still, even though you didn't even know it happened. Sad huh?

Some people say "Well, abstaining is not good for a couple." I found this. "NFP is not just a "method" based on physiology. Rather, NFP is based on VIRTUE. It is based on sexual self-control, which is necessary for a healthy marriage. There are times in any marriage when spouses have to put aside their desire for sex because of sickness, fatigue, travel, or other reasons. In a healthy marriage, love is shown in many ways, and not all these ways of showing love are physical. In fact, to refrain from sex when necessary is itself an act of love. Why? Because in effect the spouses then say to each other, "I did not marry you just for sexual pleasure. I married you because I love you. You are a person, not an object. When I have sex with you, it is because I freely choose to show you my love, not because I need to satisfy an urge." Using NFP requires abstinence from intercourse during the fertile days if a pregnancy has to be avoided. This actually can strengthen the couple's sexual life. When the spouses know that they can abstain for good reasons, they also come to trust each other more, and avoid the risk of treating each other primarily as objects of sexual pleasure rather than persons. Artificial birth control, on the other hand, gives free reign to the temptation to make pleasure the dominant element, rather than virtue. It encourages couples to think that sexual self-control is not necessary. It can encourage them to become slaves to pleasure." It really can be good for a couple to abstain. Much like we (should) abstain before marriage- even with our hormones rage-ing, we abstain for love of each other, and love of God. Abstaining has to happen sometimes, and plus- it's not the end of the world! Date- remember those sweet, fun things you do before marriage? You can still feel love without sex all the time- if not, it's time to do some talking!

Another interesting fact. "but one of the hidden secrets of using NFP is that is actually has a low divorce rate, 4.2% to be exact. Couples who use other forms of birth control experience a divorce rate of almost 60%." This is because the couple must talk- must take responsibility together (rather than all the responsibility on the woman.) Rather than once a year "Do we want kinds this year? No? Ok- then I take the pill for another year." A example I heard/read once was a couple. Female: "It's my fertile time. Do we want to, even though it means we might get pregnant?" Male: "No! We don't have the money for another child. You spend it all shopping with your girlfriends...." etc. Suddenly we are talking about REAL ISSUES that otherwise may not have been addressed. All this communication--> Helps keep divorce rates down.

The hardest thing, I've told friends about NFP and I've had many say they are interested in it after they are married (and these women are having premarital sex). They don't trust it- but they are willing to bet it all on a pill? A pill that hurts the body, hurts the environment (another long story), a pill that- if not taken exactly right- will not work? Why don't we trust nature? Why don't we trust what our bodies do- what they are meant to do. If you have a stuffy nose, a sinus headache, and a cough- you put together those signs and go "I have a sinus infection!" Likewise, can't we do the same and say "I'm fertile!" ?

Some pages I got info from, not tagged.

http://www.nfpworksblog.com/nfp-faqs/

So, just some food for thought. 

Promotion Baby Steps

Promotion Baby Steps

Haven't written in a few

I haven't really had a good thought to write on- I've thought about little things off and on, but nothing of substance. Nothing that people would care to know :)

I've been trying to ID where a smell is coming from in my house. It's in the kitchen. I completely cleaned my fridge and freezer- where I thought it could be from. Still there. I'm thinking I need to bleach the two drawers and my trash can- I can't think of anywhere else it could be! I had my husband check the fridge pan, under the fridge, under the oven.... nothing! It's really frustrating and makes me not want to get laundry and cooking done!

My husband keeps all his mail/papers he gets. In case they are important. It drives me mad!! We don't need all these piles of seemingly-trash sitting around! I got us a file cabinet (thank you craigslist) and Saturday we have decided to devote to filing all the papers. That means he has to go through them!! We can file bills, pay stubs, important papers. We can throw out the old stuff.

Question: How long should you keep bills and pay stubs? One year? 3 years?



I'm also feeling  better about money- for the first time... ever. We are still in a good bit of debt, but now at least we see positive numbers to start paying debt off! I'm excited about this and about to work on an excel chart to give us goals. I'm also planning on using Quicken to help us figure out where we are spending our money (and how much!) in order to budget more accurately. I'm also hoping doing couponing will help us with cutting some of our food budget!

I should be working harder on getting a job, but there isn't much here. I really enjoy substituting, teaching flute lessons, and staying home- to make a nice home for my husband and I. I know this is keeping us in debt longer. I feel kind of bad.... I don't know what I should do!

Titus 2 women and desire for such

" ³Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. ⁴Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, ⁵to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God."  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Titus+2&version=NIV


I know there are movements for Titus 2 women organization. Where older women serve as guides to younger women- on how to be a Godly wife, how to take care of the home, how to.... live. Women often don't teach the younger generation these skills- we are a rushed society. We are a feminist society. (I do want to insert, for anyone who does know me, my family was there, and my home I grew up in was taken care of. I didn't learn- didn't want to, didn't have time.... It wasn't an issue to be passed down, for me.) I need to learn these skills- want support and help on how to do this.

How does one find a group? I googled seeing if there was a group called "Titus 2 women" in my area, and I didn't come up with anything. I know women that I can ask questions to (one is a friend's mom who is also a friend of mine.) I'm afraid of being a burden though.

Thanks for any thoughts!

Proverbs 31

Proverbs 31 (New International Version)

Proverbs 31

Sayings of King Lemuel

 ¹ The sayings of King Lemuel—an oracle ^[a] his mother taught him:  ² "O my son, O son of my womb,
       O son of my vows, ^[b]
 3 do not spend your strength on women,
       your vigor on those who ruin kings.
 ⁴ "It is not for kings, O Lemuel—
       not for kings to drink wine,
       not for rulers to crave beer,
 ⁵ lest they drink and forget what the law decrees,
       and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.
 ⁶ Give beer to those who are perishing,
       wine to those who are in anguish;
 ⁷ let them drink and forget their poverty
       and remember their misery no more.
 ⁸ "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
       for the rights of all who are destitute.
 ⁹ Speak up and judge fairly;
       defend the rights of the poor and needy."
       Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character
 ^{10 [c]} A wife of noble character who can find?
       She is worth far more than rubies.
 ¹¹ Her husband has full confidence in her
       and lacks nothing of value.
 ¹² She brings him good, not harm,
       all the days of her life.
 ¹³ She selects wool and flax
       and works with eager hands.
 ¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
       bringing her food from afar.
 ¹⁵ She gets up while it is still dark;
       she provides food for her family
       and portions for her servant girls.
 ¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
       out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
 ¹⁷ She sets about her work vigorously;
       her arms are strong for her tasks.
 ¹⁸ She sees that her trading is profitable,
       and her lamp does not go out at night.
 ¹⁹ In her hand she holds the distaff
       and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
 ²⁰ She opens her arms to the poor
       and extends her hands to the needy.
 ²¹ When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
       for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
 ²² She makes coverings for her bed;
       she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
 ²³ Her husband is respected at the city gate,
       where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
 ²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
       and supplies the merchants with sashes.
 ²⁵ She is clothed with strength and dignity;
       she can laugh at the days to come.
 ²⁶ She speaks with wisdom,
       and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
 ²⁷ She watches over the affairs of her household
       and does not eat the bread of idleness.
 ²⁸ Her children arise and call her blessed;
       her husband also, and he praises her:
 ²⁹ "Many women do noble things,
       but you surpass them all."
 ³⁰ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
       but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
 ³¹ Give her the reward she has earned,
       and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Coupon-ing

I went to CCW (Council of Catholic Women) this week for the first meeting of the "year"(it runs August-July). I am by far the youngest woman there- it's weird. They do a lot of service projects, and I'm excited about stuff that's coming up. They have different speakers each month, and this month a lady from the church talked about coupon-ing. I was unsure about it at first but now I am really excited about it!

http://www.time2saveworkshops.com/ is the main webpage I'm looking at using. For example, If I shop at Publix, I can look at the Publix list. I can see what sales are going on- and what coupons you can use. For example, Publix lets you use 1 manufacturer coupon, 1 store coupon (or competitor coupon, and they double coupons worth up to 50 cents.)
So...
"Krusteaz Pancake/Waffle Mix $2.27 ($1.14)
Use $.50/1 from 8/22 SS
Get $.50/1 in Upromise Savings
(makes it $.14 plus Upromise savings!)"
So... the mix is usually 2.27, on sale for 1.14. I can use the 8/22 coupon from SS (southern saver I think) for 50 cents off of one. Publix will double it so it's a dollar off. So I would pay 14 cents for this mix!

I'm excited about using this to shop for us. I think about the Proverbs 31 wife. 

"13 She seeks wool and flax,
and works with willing hands.
14 She is like the ships of the merchant;
she brings her food from afar."

"16 She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard."

"18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.
Her lamp does not go out at night."

 

I think part of it- she goes out- she finds good deals, she shops. She earns money for her family- and/or saves her family money in her work (coupon-ing can take 2-4 hours a week, but well earned!) 

I want to study more about how to be more like the P31 wife... and to apply it now, before having children. Then, when we have children, hopefully I will be disciplined and more Godly- and be able to pass on my knowledge to my children.

More on P31 I'm sure.

Failure at Ironing

I'm trying to learn how to take care of things around the house- having a clean home, a nicely set up table, washed clothes and linens. And the ironing..... I am not sure how I manage to iron MORE wrinkles into clothes than there already are. I'm not sure how to learn to do this better (without burning holes in all the clothes while I go over and over and over and over......) but it's really frustrating me!!


Since I've started caring more about my faith and morality, it's funny how much TV can bother me... it feels like every show is so.... inappropriate! Like one show with a married couple and kids- and how much society is running the kids instead of them. Or (one of my favorites...) everyone having sex with everyone. Where is the married, happy, couples? Where are the morals, the faith? Crazy.Or maybe I'm just paranoid...

Article: How my mother's fanatical feminist views tore us apart

She's revered as a trail-blazing feminist and author Alice Walker touched the lives of a generation of women. A champion of women's rights, she has always argued that motherhood is a form of servitude. But one woman didn't buy in to Alice's beliefs  -  her daughter, Rebecca, 38.

Here the writer describes what it was like to grow up as the daughter of a cultural icon, and why she feels so blessed to be the sort of woman 64-year-old Alice despises  -  a mother.

The other day I was vacuuming when my son came bounding into the room. 'Mummy, Mummy, let me help,' he cried. His little hands were grabbing me around the knees and his huge brown eyes were looking up at me. I was overwhelmed by a huge surge of happiness.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1021293/How-mothers-fanatical-feminist-views-tore-apart-daughter-The-Color-Purple-author.html#ixzz10Apod94n

Fighting the sick!

So... I've been sick for like 5 days- I think it's all sinus- no temperature or anything. Mostly drainage- which gives me a cough, and a slight stuffy nose. Go away sickness!!!!

This Sunday T and I skipped church the first time since we got married. I was feeling cruddy, needed to lie down before church- then went over to a friend's house (plans made in advance) and so we just didn't go... I feel terrible.

I'm not sure what else to say today. I have a lot on my mind, but not sure what to say. :-) I'll write tomorrow when I have more coherent thoughts.

Sept 15, a clean home makes me happy!

My kitchen/dining room area is coming together beautifully. We decorated in red/black with silver and white accessories. It's a mix of cafe/coffee house and Italian. The dining room table sometimes almost has a Japanese look sometimes but it still looks nice. T's sister gave us a silver wall-hanging wine rack. It hangs over our dinner table b/w two coffee pictures- 1and 2.  Kitchen pic. I made my first homemade bread in my bread maker. Homemade bread pic. I'm very proud of it :P

My living room, I'm working on. It's difficult b/c we have horrible ugly couch/ottoman/ chair  (like tan, browns, off-white stripes with wood on the sides.) I just can't get a "feel" for what our living room should be aiming towards. The ugly couch/ottoman/ chair and one lamp are all browns. The dog cage, another table-lamp, and entertainment center are all black. We have a random mixture of different types of instruments (both musicians, so people tend to get us unique instruments) and some wedding memorabilia. Then DVDs. It's cluttered and no "theme." And dusty! We got a few pictures in the living room (Midsummer eve by Edward Hughs) and (Spirit of the Night by Grimshaw)

Our bedroom is greens and browns. I eventually want to go for a forest- almost enchanted- feel. I registered for mostly sage and chocolate brown items. However, the bed frame and end table are black steel. There isn't much wall decor- just an necklace holder I made. I used an old pillowcase -care bears- and put it on a bulletin board. I'll get something more adult one day- but it was cute. :-) I'm turning one corner into mine- a necklace holder, dresser, mirror- area to do my hair, perfume, and just mine. I hope this isn't selfish! I've been cleaning out my closet and having T clean out his too- clothes that don't fit and whatnot. I'm happy so far with it.

The office- I haven't done anything. We are getting a futon frame today so I suppose I should go pick up there enough to put it in there!

So I hope these links work! It's the first time I've done them, but I wanted to show it all!

Let me know if you have any thoughts or ideas!

Oh, and I'm learning how to iron... I never learned. My stepmom always did it. T knows how. Now I'm learning, since I have more free time. It's weird it makes me happy.

Sept 3rd, a cut from LJ, adoration

I went to adoration the other day. It was nice- I'm proud I did. I was nervous and wavered for a good 10 mins, but I finally did. It was nice to have a quiet time to be with Jesus, and to just pray. I tend to get distracted praying- I have trouble with focus. This was a chance to focus more. Does anyone else notice they have trouble focusing while praying? What do you do to keep your mind where you want it?

Sept 1, Why Veil?

I'm wanting to veil, and people have asked why. Here is my research//thoughts so far.

It doesn't have to be a veil. It can be a hat, veil, hajab, etc...

There are several reasons...

1- The veil is historically part of church tradition- in catholic and protestant churches, until fairly recently.

2- It's a symbol of chastity and of purity.

    A- It is more covering- in church I prefer to not see mini-skirts and really low V neck shirts (which there is more and more of these days.) I understand it's the fashion of the times- I have a very large chest and it's hard to not show cleavage! But, I try. The best for God! Veiling is (historically) another layer- more covered, more modest- does this make sense?? (I just woke up...still forming thoughts in general today!)

    B- 1 Corinthians 11 talks about a woman covering her head while in prayer (such as in church.) This verse is sometimes controversial based on translations and on "opinions" of what this means. However, the basic idea behind it is that a woman covers her hair to show love/devotion/respect/chastity to her husband.

"2 Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you. 3 But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife [1] is her husband, and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head, 5 but every wife [2] who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, since it is the same as if her head were shaven. (At the time, a woman would have her head shaved or cut short as punishment for bad behavior (sexually) )6 For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head. 7 For a man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. (meaning woman was created for man, because it was “not good for him to be alone.”) 8 For man was not made from woman, but woman from man. 9 Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. 10 That is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. [3] 11 Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man nor man of woman; 12 for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God. 13 Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a wife to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair it is a disgrace for him, 15 but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering. 16 If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God."

3- It is beautiful. When you wear it, you can’t help but to be in the mindset of church/prayer. It’s wearing the clothing fitting for the time. (does this make sense?)

I might come edit this later, but this is the idea.


EDIT on Sept 18:  http://feelinfeminine.com/?p=1001 a link I found today with more info on veiling.

Aug 27th, I'm subbing

I have this period off so I'm writing for a few.

That girl I was having problems with- that was a friend of T's.... we ended that for the most part. He finally wrote with her on FB and they are on an ok note. I never talked to her again. It's easier for me to not have friends like that. I need friends who can respect my believes- even if they totally disagree with them.

On that note, I was going to write a bit about me and Catholicism. I've gotten a lot more conservative in my expectations within the church. I bet that has a lot to do with the church I go to now- it's fairly conservative, especially the priest. A lot of women in the choir wear the veil (which I love!) But on conservative thoughts--- For example, went I went to a church in Biloxi, 5pm mass, the Eucharistic ministers were wearing jeans! I understand that the 5pm is usually a college/youth mass, but I feel that if you are involved, such as an EM, you need to be dressed nice. It's the body and blood! You are touching it! You need to be clean, dressed nice, and in a holy mindset! T's mom actually gave me a hard time about being bothered by that. I also don't get it when people are in short skirts, tank tops, low neck shirts, etc.... It's gotta be a distraction to guys- it is to me- a married female! I mean, come on! Dress appropriate to the occasion!!


I also really like the veils. Several women in my church wear them and I love it! It's so pretty. I know it's more historical church (pre-Vatican II) I asked Fr. about it and he said "In the early church wearing a veil gave a woman an authority she would not have normally been accorded. In terms of society at that time, this was a big deal and a step forward. Wearing a veil today can refer to one's chastity or virginity and thus is appropriate for those who have made the vow of chastity or live chaste lives in marriage (fidelity). But many women find it demeaning. I'm not sure why completely." So yeah- I always thought it had to do with "purity" but chastity makes more sense. Chastity is such an important and new thought- especially as married- but it's something I'm studying on some and I find interesting. Chastity within marriage- hadn't known there was such thing.

Anyways, I'm rambling so I'll log and write later!

August 26,

I keep meaning to write, but there feels to be so much, yet so little to write about!!!

Like I said before, our wedding was amazing. The church was gorgeous, my dress amazing, my bridesmaids beautiful, and the family priest was funny and reverent. It was such a beautiful ceremony! We had a full mass (the 3 readings, priest speak/homily, communion, flowers for Mary). It all went so smoothly!! I felt gorgeous. My dad loved it which made me really happy- I was worried about how he would feel.
Even our exit was perfect- usually it seems no one knows what's going on, but everyone blew bubbles! It was great!

Waiting the 9 months was worth it. We were exhausted that night, but it's nice knowing that we are full married and renewing our vows every time. It's so exciting and special! I feel like it's 100% worth it and I recommend others to do so also. Doing NFP is working well--> it ends up with us having times where we chose to not to, but it ends up making us closer. We make that decision every time.
I guess it all goes along with my becoming more conservative. Crazy. It's funny to see how I have changed/am changing. I'm scared the people in my life won't like me, but I can't help it. I want to be a little more feminine, conservative, Catholic.... this is another post that I'll write later. heh.

T's school year has started and is going well. We ended up fighting some- I shouldn't really go into it, but he is doing his marching band without my help and he is doing fine. I wanted to be involved with marching band, but I think he needs time to establish himself first. It's taken a long time to figure out- especially for me. I want to be there and help, but as a man he needs to do it himself for a while. I don't know if this makes sense, but.... I know it to be right, for now. I guess that's what matters.

I've been subbing and it's fun. I love subbing- the joys of teaching without lesson planning :D I do need a job though, as money is extremely tight. I was hoping after the wedding we could start catching up, but then I had more car problems and other (expensive) issues keep coming up and they needed to be attended to.

Overall I'm happy. I hope I get more comfortable with myself as I am growing and coming up with a new identity- a wife! I've been working on making our home more of a home- I'm beginning to love the small things that make it feel like a home. I know we won't  be here forever, or even very long, but I want it to make it ours! I don't want to look like a college dorm. I love having my tablecloth out, my place mats down, my cloth napkins... I love the homemade pancakes I make him in the morning before work. I love being married, being home, being me.

I'll want to add older posts

I'm learning how to use blogger right now. :D I have some old posts on LJ I want to move over here, and I could just copy/paste except I can't change the dates... I might date them myself and look like I did 10 or so today!