2009...and January is almost over. Wow. Where did it go??? I am in the mood to CLEAN HOUSE. Emotionally, physically, spiritually, mentally. I've started...and the new 'clean' blog looks are part of my effort. Its funny b/c there was an email circulating a few weeks back asking what would you prefer to have more of...a) Money b) time c) friends or d) belongings (cars, clothes, etc). I would, hands down, choose time. I have great friends and feel abundantly blessed in so many ways. The only thing I wish I had more of is time...to spend with God, my husband, my kids, writing, photo editing, learning more photography tricks, updating blogs, keeping in touch w/ friends and yes...reading, soaking in hot baths and occassionally getting a pedicure. :) Time just seems to go faster and faster...it is almost February!
Sadly, I'll admit, I have not kept up with my resolutions...already. I have lost some weight, but not all of it. I have read more, but not like I wanted to. I have not had time to write, but the ideas are pouring...which is great! I have organized quite a few cupboards/closets. I have bins waiting to do more of it. I have tried several times to get to yoga class, but its just not happening. Seems someone is sick or Shane works late or something always comes up that I miss it. : ( I haven't even found the time to play our new Wii Fit!
So what have we been up to that is keeping me so busy??? Finn & I went to AZ with my mom to see relatives and enjoy the sunshine/warm weather. It was gorgeous!!! I'll elaborate in an entry a little later. Ever since our return we have been fighting one illness after another. I started it with some sort of stomach issues for a weekend, then Finn had a horrible cold, in the middle of that Hudson was sent home from school b/c he threw up, only to find out next he has croup. Just when I thought we were through the thick of it, Shane came down with stomach flu. I think I'm going out of my mind! To top it off, it's been single digit cold here...and we're expecting ANOTHER 17" of snow tonight (on top of the existing 14" of snow on my deck...which was partly melted). I was planning a run to Whole Foods tomorrow. I may be lucky to make it down the road to the local grocer.
The good news is I'm SO excited and motivated to work towards better days...so my house is getting a great scrub (over and over and over...LOL), I'm planning summer vacations, looking forward to our family visit to CO in March and investing in some sunless tanner. The winters here are so miserable... I am so thankful for God's protection last year. I don't believe we were sick at all! Given Finn was just a few months old, it was a huge blessing. At least we are all able to handle this mess easier this year.
So when I get everyone on the mend (which you'll laugh...not at the information, but at the extreme of our streak of bad health...Shane just came down and told me Hudson now has a 101 temperature. Looks like the croup is turned into something more!)...so let me say again....when I get everyone on the mend, I will post AZ photos and updates. : )
Till then...take care of you for me!
1.27.2009
1.06.2009
All of Christmas...
The festivities started later for us this year. Well, we were busy with parties, work, etc. The time just kept flying by and so we didn't even get our tree up till the 12th! This is SO late for me. I LOVE Christmas and everything that goes along with it. I usually have my tree up by Thanksgiving and it stays till mid-Jan. But this year was crazy...so here we were...
Finn loved the beaded garland. He carried it around for a while which gave the rest of us time to decorate!
Then the boys got started on the nativity. It's Hudson's favorite thing to put out. My mom got this Fisher Price set for them a few years back and it's awesome. They can play w/ it and it lights up and sings 'away in a manger'. We all enjoy it throughout the season.
Of course, Finn had to sample a taste of everything!
I don't know how much 'help' Finn was for Hudson, but Hudson was very patient, nonetheless. :)
Finished Tree!
It's never perfect, but eveyone 'helps' so I love the mess of it and the kids know where the ornaments are. Finn would go around and point to the 'balls' and his 'tractor' and 'train'. Too cute!
We went on the Polar Express the night before Hudson left for his mom's. I'll post those pics in a separate folder b/c there are quite a few. So we'll jump now to Chirstmas morning!
Finn must have heard Santa b/c he was up at a whoppin' 5:15 am!!!! ouch. So daddy and I gathered our wits and managed to crawl out of bed around 6:15. Thankfully, Finn snuggled with us in between.
The first thing he saw was his new jungle gym!
This look of wonder and joy was on his face all morning. It was great! He kept dancing and squeeling and lauging. He was so much fun! He loved everything! Great job Santa!
He also kept making really loud sounds when he got excited about stuff. Here is that face....and I'll add the video.
Santa also brought some of Finn's favorite...books!
So happy baby...
Daddy also got some new clothes, all of the Avatar series and other fun stuff. :) Mommy got a day at the spa, some new necklaces and other fun treats!
Finn is starting to get curls on the back of his head. Love it!!!
Granny brought over apricot roll for breakfast...yum!
These shots are from the day after Christmas. We were so busy on Christmas day. Granny was over at 7am to open gifts, we were out the door for Shane's parents by 11am, my dad's at 3:30 and home at bedtime. It was fun, but I was wiped out! So we stayed home and finally played w/ all the fun new toys. He is starting to get better balance and squat down like this then stand back up. Big boy!
I just love these jammies on him...his cute little bum.
There is one last fun thing from Christmas that I have to share. Finn hated the bows/ribbons. It was hilarious. I have to admit that I tortured the poor kid on more than one occassion to show everyone his face when he got a bow on his hand. I managed to capture it on film, so I'll add the video for you to see. He looks like he just ate a PB/pickle sandwich. So funny! I promise, after I caught this on film, I didn't tease him anymore! :)
This is from NYE morning. Shane brought this car in...which was Hudson's...and Finn thought it was Christmas all over again! Too cute.
We have two 'kissing' balls up in our house. A small one at the garage entrance and this big one at the front door. Our stairs go up around this ball so Finn points at it every day (many times a day) and says 'ball'! Yes, baby...and he gets kisses every time! I don't think anyone escapes our house without kisses....we have the doors covered!
This picture of Finn reminds me so much of my nephew, Austin, when he was a baby. The expression in his eyes and his pose (sitting on one foot). Funny how the family resemblences carry on...
We didn't have snow for Christmas (it was actually, quite warm), but we did for NYE! It was fun! We just went down to the neighbors house who had many other neighbors there w/ all the kids. Craziness, but so fun! They had face painting, crafts, games and a wonderful spread of snacks. It was a great way to see everyone and catch up after the busy holiday season.
ahhh....sleep
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight!
1.01.2009
New Year
Happy New Year Everyone!
Today is my dad's 68th birthday. I just came home from a great celebration and had my annual serving of pork & sauerkraut. I'm really excited about 2009 and wanted to take a minute to reflect on 2008.
I would have to say that 2008 was the best year of my life so far. I have moved so many times in my life (cross country too) that it was SO nice to be in a home where I know we'll be for at least a few years. I was able to 'nest' and relax and focus on other things...like our family.
I loved having the luxury of staying home with Finn. It is a busy job, but I am SO thankful to be here doing it. I, personally, would not want anyone else doing it. I have no judgement for the working mom's out there...to each their own and I respect you! All I can say is for myself and I loved every minute of it! Finn has brought so much joy to my life and our family.
In 2008 we had some fun memories...I'm trying to think of my top three. Of course I immediately think of all the fun 'firsts' we had with Finn this year...but you have probably read about those already, so I'm going to try to think of three others. :)
1. Doing what I love. This is the first time in my life that I am really doing what I love. I LOVE photography. I love working with people, taking pictures, editing pictures and giving them something they love and will cherish for years to come. What a gift to finally be in a place in my life that I can delve into this profession and enjoy it! I also LOVE being a mommy...so when I'm not taking pictures, I still love my 'job'. I would have to say this is the first year since I was 5 years old that I am truly doing what I love. I went through school, more school and worked from age 12 on (babysitting, then waiting tables through HS and college, Little Debbie routes, sold Partylite, delivered phone books, school teacher, tutored, actuarial analyst, loan processor, real estate agent, travel agent and now this...). I'm still 'working'...but I finally feel like I'm where I was always meant to be.
2. Buying a camper. I'm really excited about this because it symbolizes many things for me. I love our family. I believe I have one of the best guys out there and I love him so much! I was thrilled when he came home with the camper and I'm excited for our family road trips ahead. I know it may be a few years before it's relaxing (it will be hard w/ little ones), but it will be fun and what a great way to build family memories that will last a lifetime. I hope this summer we can take our first trip!
3. Comfortable in my skin. I have always been a worry wort. I know most of us are our own worst enemies, and I seem to take it up a notch. I always worry about what people think of me and fuss over staying attractive for myself and my husband, being a good mother/wife/friend, being a good Christian, neighbor, etc. Staying at home really challenged me this year. After having a baby and gaining WAY too much weight it took me all year to work on getting it off. I just finished nursing about a month ago, so I'm still battling the last few pounds. Anyone who has stayed home after having a career knows it is a long adjustment. It is hard to feel 'accomplished' at the days end when you have been running ragged and yet feel like nothing is done. I can't tell you how many times Shane asked me what I did all day and I know I was busy, but can't name one thing. The blessing in this is I finally had to get over my insecurities. I had to love myself through it and forgive myself at the day's end if my house was a mess and/or dinner was not ready (or even thought of!). My husband is SO very gracious and supportive. We accomplished so much this year with his business and mine...but I could not have done it without his help and compassionate soul. He allowed me the time and space to find my way...and I finally feel comfortable with myself. The weight was worth it to have Finn so beautiful, healthy and happy. My wrinkles, imperfections and changed body is exactly as a mommy should be...it's that time in my life and its time to accept it (and Shane sweetle says...it's all part of growing old together and promptly points out his imperfections). I often see other women and long for their energy, their look or want to be 'more' in some way. I feel like I'm failing or not doing enough. Although I still challenge myself on a daily basis...I have also come to a place of peace. I am who I am. I like jeans. I like scarves. I like boots. I like accessories. I like to wear jammies all day with Finn every once in awhile. I like my house...even when its messy. I like music. I love to dance and sing (even though I know my voice isn't that great!). I love to laugh and be silly. I love to be outside. I love a glass of wine, smores and a fire on summer nights with my husband. I love Finn's morning snuggles. I love the sunshine. I love to be home. I love the Lord. I love my husband. I love our family. And finally...I love me. :)
With that said...here are some dreams/resolutions for 2009!
We may have another Polen family member on the way by year's end (God willing!). I hope to do yoga and cardio more regularly. I hope to go to bed 30 minutes earlier every night and spend that time in the Word. I hope to write at least 2 hours a week. I hope to get organized thorughout the year. Donate what we don't need, keep what we can 'recycle' (Hudson's toys and old clothes) and organize what we readily use. I hope to be more 'green'. I hope to stick to this plan!
I wish all of you the very best and abundantly blessed year!
PS. Christmas photos are coming...I think tonight was the last party! So hopefully this weekend I'll get them up. :)
Happy New Year!
Today is my dad's 68th birthday. I just came home from a great celebration and had my annual serving of pork & sauerkraut. I'm really excited about 2009 and wanted to take a minute to reflect on 2008.
I would have to say that 2008 was the best year of my life so far. I have moved so many times in my life (cross country too) that it was SO nice to be in a home where I know we'll be for at least a few years. I was able to 'nest' and relax and focus on other things...like our family.
I loved having the luxury of staying home with Finn. It is a busy job, but I am SO thankful to be here doing it. I, personally, would not want anyone else doing it. I have no judgement for the working mom's out there...to each their own and I respect you! All I can say is for myself and I loved every minute of it! Finn has brought so much joy to my life and our family.
In 2008 we had some fun memories...I'm trying to think of my top three. Of course I immediately think of all the fun 'firsts' we had with Finn this year...but you have probably read about those already, so I'm going to try to think of three others. :)
1. Doing what I love. This is the first time in my life that I am really doing what I love. I LOVE photography. I love working with people, taking pictures, editing pictures and giving them something they love and will cherish for years to come. What a gift to finally be in a place in my life that I can delve into this profession and enjoy it! I also LOVE being a mommy...so when I'm not taking pictures, I still love my 'job'. I would have to say this is the first year since I was 5 years old that I am truly doing what I love. I went through school, more school and worked from age 12 on (babysitting, then waiting tables through HS and college, Little Debbie routes, sold Partylite, delivered phone books, school teacher, tutored, actuarial analyst, loan processor, real estate agent, travel agent and now this...). I'm still 'working'...but I finally feel like I'm where I was always meant to be.
2. Buying a camper. I'm really excited about this because it symbolizes many things for me. I love our family. I believe I have one of the best guys out there and I love him so much! I was thrilled when he came home with the camper and I'm excited for our family road trips ahead. I know it may be a few years before it's relaxing (it will be hard w/ little ones), but it will be fun and what a great way to build family memories that will last a lifetime. I hope this summer we can take our first trip!
3. Comfortable in my skin. I have always been a worry wort. I know most of us are our own worst enemies, and I seem to take it up a notch. I always worry about what people think of me and fuss over staying attractive for myself and my husband, being a good mother/wife/friend, being a good Christian, neighbor, etc. Staying at home really challenged me this year. After having a baby and gaining WAY too much weight it took me all year to work on getting it off. I just finished nursing about a month ago, so I'm still battling the last few pounds. Anyone who has stayed home after having a career knows it is a long adjustment. It is hard to feel 'accomplished' at the days end when you have been running ragged and yet feel like nothing is done. I can't tell you how many times Shane asked me what I did all day and I know I was busy, but can't name one thing. The blessing in this is I finally had to get over my insecurities. I had to love myself through it and forgive myself at the day's end if my house was a mess and/or dinner was not ready (or even thought of!). My husband is SO very gracious and supportive. We accomplished so much this year with his business and mine...but I could not have done it without his help and compassionate soul. He allowed me the time and space to find my way...and I finally feel comfortable with myself. The weight was worth it to have Finn so beautiful, healthy and happy. My wrinkles, imperfections and changed body is exactly as a mommy should be...it's that time in my life and its time to accept it (and Shane sweetle says...it's all part of growing old together and promptly points out his imperfections). I often see other women and long for their energy, their look or want to be 'more' in some way. I feel like I'm failing or not doing enough. Although I still challenge myself on a daily basis...I have also come to a place of peace. I am who I am. I like jeans. I like scarves. I like boots. I like accessories. I like to wear jammies all day with Finn every once in awhile. I like my house...even when its messy. I like music. I love to dance and sing (even though I know my voice isn't that great!). I love to laugh and be silly. I love to be outside. I love a glass of wine, smores and a fire on summer nights with my husband. I love Finn's morning snuggles. I love the sunshine. I love to be home. I love the Lord. I love my husband. I love our family. And finally...I love me. :)
With that said...here are some dreams/resolutions for 2009!
We may have another Polen family member on the way by year's end (God willing!). I hope to do yoga and cardio more regularly. I hope to go to bed 30 minutes earlier every night and spend that time in the Word. I hope to write at least 2 hours a week. I hope to get organized thorughout the year. Donate what we don't need, keep what we can 'recycle' (Hudson's toys and old clothes) and organize what we readily use. I hope to be more 'green'. I hope to stick to this plan!
I wish all of you the very best and abundantly blessed year!
PS. Christmas photos are coming...I think tonight was the last party! So hopefully this weekend I'll get them up. :)
Happy New Year!
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