A few things I learned/realized/remembered this week:

- I don't like it when plans change. It's not that I'm inflexible or unforgiving, but changes in my schedule do stress me out. I wish they didn't, and need to work on this.

- I love really clean floors, and clean everything. I have been elbow-deep in spring cleaning (the old-fashioned way!). It is very difficult with two little kids to chase around, but I just needed it.

- I enjoy aesthetic changes. Even the simplest change can inspire me to organize and maintain. It has been a long time since anything in my place has been changed.

- I do not know how to deal with tantrums and persistence in a positive way. This stresses me out.

- I love sitting on the ground and running my fingers through the sand (even the dirty old sand at the playground!), and I love playing outside with my boys.

- I miss aerobics class and can't wait to start up again after my surgery.

- Wearing jewelry makes me feel pulled together even when I know I am not.

- Selling jewelry is a very fun hobby.

- I am getting nervous as our regular activities are winding down. On one hand, I love warm summer days that are free for beach trips and picnics and adventures; however, I feel anxious at the thought of too much free time. On good days, it is a gift. On trying days, it is like torture!
- I love being part of a Bible study that challenges me to dig deeper and get to know my Bible and God more intimately.

-That being said, I do not love being challenged on submitting my will to God. There is a lot going on that I'm not ready for...not wanting. It's hard to let go of the things I think I want in this life.

- I am saddened by adult behaviour that doesn't seem so mature, and am always inspired when I talk to someone who rises above. 

- I love getting to know neighbors. It makes long days at home not feel so long.

- I am horrible at getting stains out of laundry (and just died a whole load pink with one of my red scarfs that should not have been put in the washer at all).

- I have a pile of borrowed things that need to be returned...mostly baby things that my baby has outgrown. I am not ready to let go!

- I miss teaching and planning, and have been thinking a lot lately about some of my old students. A few months ago I ran into a student who was in the first kindergarten class I ever taught. He is now finishing up grade seven...how crazy is that?!

- I stay up too late, trying to hold onto a few more moments just for me. I love silence and stillness, but really dislike feeling sleep deprived. What to do...

- I have been putting off a few things that won't take that long to do, so I just need to do them!

- Josiah is responsible for most of the pictures I take of Elwin. He inspires me to stop what I am doing and watch the little moments before they disappear.