sleep eludes me

the house is sleeping--I hear the multiple noises of the air conditioner, music from the back, the house settling for the night.  I simply cannot go to sleep so I got up to do something productive.  Can't seem to do that either so decided to record my thoughts.

Several of sis's friends have moved into dorm rooms this past weekend; so several of their parents have posted statuses, pics, etc on facebook and twitter to document.  I thought I was doing so well in preparing for her move to Ruston; perhaps I have been deluding myself.

tonight I attended the freshman convocation held at NSU for the incoming class.  This ceremony is full of pomp and circumstance to herald the beginning of their college career.  Dr. Webb, Chris Maggio and others eloquently spoke about the changes that awaited them and how they were pleased and honored they had selected NSU.  I was very moved by all this "hoopla".  It has slammed me into a funk I cannot seem to shake.  hunk of mine doesn't get it. 

i am thrilled for her new chapter but mourning the loss of mine.  isn't that bizarre?

Sissy is 18!

My sweet baby girl, born 18 years ago today, lies sleeping across the hotel room.  We are in a lovely room at the Pere Marquette in New Orleans to celebrate.  My heart is so full--with admiration for the young woman she has become; with heaviness as the summer races full throttle towards "M day" (moving day) to Ruston; with thankfulness for the deep abiding faith she has.

My prayer for today is to stay in the moment!   Don't get hung up in little details that irritate or detract---focus on my sweet little family who love you and love each other!

Call the WAAAAAAAmbulance!!!!

enough said this morning!  I know all the things I have to be thankful for and I cannot seem to break this incredible funk that surrounds and clouds my otherwise somewhat sunny disposition!  HELP!!

The gauntlet has begun!

A friend said recently "these last few weeks of school are a gauntlet to be completed".  I get this imagery of a long long narrow hall that must be conquered before reaching the end!   This morning, this is how I feel about Sis's graduation.  The actual ceremony is only 10 days away; however, there is SO much going on between now and the actual date.  In fact, the next three weeks are packed with awards ceremonies, choir concerts, parties, baccalaureate, family gatherings, graduation, Trojan Travels and finally Disney World!   How blessed we are--but I get a misty-eyed just thinkin about it.

I want to drink these memories in; sometimes, it is hard because we are moving quickly from one event to another.  This morning, the four of us went to eat breakfast at the Pitt Grill.  Such fun and laughter at the table; I want to treasure these moments with both kids!  We all looked a little grungy; no makeup, flip flops and t shirts but it is my family at its best.  We love each other and for the most part, like being together!  I love that!

Sis has such dreams and I want to be here to support her every step of the way! (not necessarily financially but....... ha)

Sunday's coming!

Wow, this Easter season has certainly been a time of reflection for me.  Our church did the Living Last Supper on Thursday evening.  I was initially skeptical; however, it has really given me much to think about  Jesus's last days before the crucifixition.

Today is a day of cooking and preparing for family tomorrow.  I love to bake and this gives me an excuse to make a yummy strawberry cheesecake and carrot cake muffins (thanks baked perfection for the recipe!)

I am so thankful for this time with family.  Sarah's graduation is so quickly approaching!

Wow-I needed to read this!

I just read the most honest look at hospitality--between Hospital and Hostel!
http://www.incourage.me/2011/03/on-frozen-turkey-and-hospitality.html

Who wants to come over tonight?

home alone!

It is Saturday afternoon and i am alone again.  The kids are involved with activities and Steve is at the church.  I have been cleaning out cabinets--wow, we have a lot of junk!--and am simply overcome with emotion at this moment.

Not sure if it is a result of cleaning products (ha ha) or that I am realizing I need to find some other outlets for my time.  Sarah has decided on a school and is speeding towards graduation!  She will be leaving home in a couple of months and she is ready! Andrew loves his momma but doesn't want me around all the time (I guess it would be weird if he did).  What do I want to do with my new found time?

Although I have had issues with balancing work, family and relaxation in the past, I do NOT want work to simply become more important in my life!  Maybe this is my opportunity to grow a real garden or finally learn to sew or perhaps baking (if I choose this outlet, I must find places to give the baked goods).

Steve and I are so blessed-I love my life!