a glimpse of summer

Outside my window...

the sun is setting later each night, the warm night air breathes a comfort to my soul and brings a warm glow to my cheeks. i notice a beautiful golden brown tone to the skin of my little ones that reminds me of the fun we have been having, rejoicing in the sunshine and splashing in the clear blue water of our pool through out these hot summer days. and i feel blessed!

I am grateful...

for a husband who loves me, who supports and cares for his family, with a gentle hand a giving heart. for the strength he gives me when i feel like i am drowning in the trials of this life. and am thankful for my father in heaven who answers my prayers and understands my heart even when i don't! and who carries me through when i cant go on, on my own.

I am thinking about...

trips to Oregon and San Diego, being with family and enjoying my children as they are right this very second! and how time marches on way to fast for my liking, and what i wouldn't give to have the chance to relive some of those days i wished would race by when they were tiny, and just hold and love on them knowing they grow sooo fast.

From the schoolroom...

i think i am starting to finally get things figured out! that simplicity is the key. that consistency and routine make such a big difference, that not all my lessons need to be works of art and supplemented with amazing visuals and expensive flare. But that a rocking chair and a book, can be just as enjoyable and lends itself to great conversations and very teachable moments.

From the kitchen...

i am working on a few fun cake ideas for ivy's upcoming 5th birthday! and on the opposite end of that, i have also been working on healthier eating habits for our family. we will NEVER eat fast food again!

I am reading...

the infinite atonement, the miracle of forgiveness and the good earth.

I am hoping...

for the lord to guide my path. for the faith to believe i am worthy of his blessings. and that my kids know how very much i love them, and that i don't scar them for life, as i try and figure this whole parenting thing out.

I am praying...

for wisdom, faith, healing and forgiveness. i pray for all those who are struggling that they will find peace in the lord. and that i can be his hands when and where he would have me be, to help his fellow children on this journey through life, to find strength, love and peace in his service.

I am hearing...

the white noise of the air conditioner and the soft rhythmic thump of the ceiling fan, the crickets and birds out side my window and enjoying the sounds of summer as i fall asleep.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

we are hosting my nephew Sam's 7th birthday tomorrow, so that means come morning the house will be needing a good solid scrub down. as well as finishing up the plans and details of Ivy's birthday. buying airplane tickets to Oregon and planning a trip to San Diego(a relaxing day on the beach and hopefully some fun times at sea world.) also, i am truly looking forward to this Tuesday when i will finally be getting my copy of the new David Cook album (this loud morning) i have waited a year and a half for! :)

a picture to share...