Words to Treasure

I received a card in the mail today that I just have to share.


The card wishes me a happy birthday and tells me that I am a gift from God. But it gets better.


There are two notes inside--one from grandpa and one from grandma.


"Dear Amanda, we wish you a very happy birthday. Thank you for making the trip with your children. I know it wasn't easy for you. You are always so helpful and you always know just what I need. You are so special to us. We love you and Jonathan and your two precious little ones. Love, Grandma."


"Dear Amanda, 'June of the third' is a special day in your life. It seems like yesterday that we waited for word from the delivery room that we had a beautiful baby girl. We were so proud. You gave us a lot of joy and still do. We are so proud of you. You have two beautiful children not only on the outside but on the inside.


We love you and commend you for the finishing of your college education, for the mother and wife you have become, and for being a loving and caring granddaughter. May you have many years of joy in your life.


Love, Grandpa"


Melt. My. Heart.


I will strive to communicate such love and pride in my children and grandchildren. These two precious individuals have set an amazing example for me and have provided me with love and security when I needed it most. I will never doubt their love for me. That is an invaluable gift. 






This afternoon, my kids took horrible naps. While they were asleep (for about 10 minutes), I made cookie dough.

When Andy woke up cranky as all get out, I dipped his finger in the cookie dough. He didn't stay sad for long. After that first taste, he insisted on crawling to the floor beneath the mixer on the counter and demanding another taste. Over and over again. Then Emily woke up. She wasn't happy either. I had to bribe her to get her attitude straight with a warm cookie. Hey...sometimes a girl just needs a chocolate chip cookie.

























Now i'm anxiously awaiting bedtime (I won't post a picture of that--it's not pretty). I am running my first 5K tomorrow and would really appreciate a decent night of sleep. It's doubtful. I have been actively putting kids to bed since 7pm. It is now 9:30. There is something wrong with this picture. A change is in order--just have to figure out how to get the result I desire. Isn't that what parenting is about? I mean, how many times can she get out of bed before she gets the picture? And how many times can she really say "mommy, mommy, ma ma" in a semi-sing-songy voice before she gives up? I'll let you know.