Keeping It Simple

Our journey to a healthier lifestyle/way of eating began at the end of October in 2012. I can't believe it has been that long- we have eaten "this and not that", cut down on sugar, moved to a more plant based way of eating (we're still carnivores over here, but I can see eating less and less meat over time), learned to love walking, taken hikes, ... it is a few steps forward and one step back type of journey, but moving forward all the time. We recently went to a doctor, who suggested some dietary changes and a few supplements that might help with some medical issues two sons are having. It is suggested that for SIX weeks, my boys are to eat gluten-free, sugar-free (no added processed sugar), minimally processed, and minimum dairy. I know there are many who have gone before me- I read your blogs, I scoured pinterest for find your best pins, and I have even picked up a cookbook or two. But I am surprised how actually difficult it can be. My biggest source of f...

Boy, do I have a lot to share, but this is what is most on my mind: The other day I read a FB status that a friend posted about her children. It was about some of their homeschool successes. My initial reaction was to "like", of course. And, I really do like it. She was not doing any grand bragging. Just sharing some accomplishments. I have done that occasionally here as well. But it gave me pause to think. One of my children has done some "amazing" things lately. They are not things that other people would understand are amazing. They are ordinary every day milestones that come with a struggle so big that he might as well have climbed Mt. Everest. And I am amazingly proud of him because these milestones have come because of his hard work and willingness to do what it takes to get the job done. I am not going to share what those milestones are- like my teens before this one, I keep their blogger profile pretty low. It is just not good for their dignity to be...

A few moments in time from this month... Fun at CEC!  He reminds me of the kiddos in those meme photos that have clever captions written under them. He is loving grandpa's breakfast burritos.     My card sharks- actually, I think it is Blink.  Mom's lap is disappearing! But it's still the best place to hang out.  James' newest hobby- made from dad's bucket of scrap wire.  The very best grandpa ever!  Precious little one in there.  This is real!  I just had to take the photo op before I tucked the girls safely back in their bassinet.  Love these faces.  33 years yesterday (Friday the 31st)