Happy New Year

It's been two weeks since I posted anything here on my blog, so I wanted to pop in, say hello, and wish you a happy new year!

How is 2014 going for you so far?

Here's what's been happening around here lately.  

Lately, I've been giving a lot of thought to what I want to accomplish this year. To which goals are most important, and how much time and energy and money I want to devote to each.  

Lately, I've been sorting through boxes and boxes of my teaching supplies, and deciding what to keep, what to give away, and what to throw out. I've also been reminiscing as I look at drawings and notes from former students and glance at photos from field trips and special classroom activities.  Sometimes, I miss teaching (especially the days with my fourth graders), but most often, I feel very lucky and happy to be at home with Noah.     

Lately, I've been polishing an article about animal communication and researching presidential pets for a second piece.

Lately, I've been processing photos from Noah's birthday party earlier this month.  (I hope to have a post up later this week.)

Lately, I've been flossing my teeth while Noah plays in the bathtub. I've never been good at remembering to floss, but this year I want to try to make a habit of it.

Lately, I've been slowly working on my December Daily album, adding patterned paper and a few embellishments. 

Lately, I've been watching Downton Abbey with Brian. It's one of the few television shows we watch together, and although I know Brian doesn't love it like I do, I love that he watches it with me anyway. 

Lately, I've been writing thank you notes for Noah's birthday gifts.

Lately, I've been walking on the treadmill three times a week during Noah's nap time. But I keep telling myself I need to step it up big time (as in, "Run, Jennie, run!") if I'm going to attempt a 12K in April.  

Lately, I've been singing Kumbaya, My Lord and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star and Row, Row, Row Your Boat.  Noah enthusiastically sings along, uttering every fourth or fifth word, which makes my heart happy.  

What have you been up to lately?

This Week: Thanks and Wow

Right now, I'm reading a book by Anne Lamott called Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers. 

As I think about the prayers I offer up to God, I realize that Ms. Lamott couldn't be more right.  

I'm either asking for help, giving thanks, or as Lamott writes, "feeling awe at the world around [me]."

This past week, I've been saying lots of "thanks" prayers and "wow" prayers.

Truth be told, though, I don't know if there really is more "good stuff" happening in my life right now, or if I'm just more open to seeing and acknowledging it.  

Regardless, I'm thankful.  And hopeful.  And happy. 

Here's a look at what's been happening around here:

Saturday: We celebrated Noah's first birthday in the company of family and friends.  Noah was showered with new toys, clothes, shoes, books, and even some money for his college fund.   

Sunday: I watched Downton Abbey for the first time--after seeing a photo of the show on Instagram. I know I'm a little late to the party (Season 3 just started), but I'm glad to have found a series I really enjoy watching!  Now, I just have to hunt down Seasons 1 and 2, so I can get caught up on the storylines and characters.  (ETA: Brian just picked up Season 1 from Redbox...woohoo!)

Monday: Even though Notre Dame lost to Alabama, Brian had fun playing poker with his friends. Meanwhile, Noah and I enjoyed dinner (Dos Coyotes' burritos) with my mom, sister, and 2-month-old niece, Zoey.   

Tuesday: Noah received a beautiful, handmade quilt from our friend, Noeleen.    You know how we all have gifts from God?  Quilting is definitely one of Noeleen's gifts!  (If you'd like to see the quilt, check out my Instagram photo here.)

Wednesday: After Noah's nap, we headed to the library to pick up a few books.  On the way there, Noah and I were listening to Christian music when "Proof of Your Love" by For King and Country came on.  I LOVE that song!  I cranked up the volume and sang loud, especially during the refrain.  Noah just smiled from the backseat... 
 
Thursday: I received a wonderful package in the mail.  Inside, there was a wooden hanger with my name on it, along with a card from my sister, Katie. 

The card said:
Plan with me,
Stand with me,
Cry with me,
Laugh with me
...will you be my matron of honor?"

My answer: YES! 

Friday: Marilyn, our babysitter, watched Noah for four hours in the afternoon.  During that time, I finished the tenth (and final) assignment for my children's writing class.  It's been a great experience, and I'm excited to start submitting my stories and articles to children's magazines. 

Saturday: Both Noah and I were glad to see Brian this morning; he's been at work for the past three days.  Also, I planted seven paperwhite bulbs a few weeks ago, and one of them bloomed today.  I love having fresh flowers in our home!

Now it's your turn: What are you celebrating?  Watching?  Listening to?  Baking?  Writing?  Reading? Feeling grateful for?