Negativity Averted

Sometimes Sunday is extra hard, I have a child that makes sure of it- almost on a weekly basis.  I've been feeling a little down in the dumps because of some of the things that child said to me as I put said child to bed...  So I went on a little walk to clear my mind.  I didn't want to stay in grouchy/grumpy/sad mode so I prayed on my walked.  That helps a lot.  What mostly came to mind as I prayed was other people in my life who are suffering in some way right now.  So I tried to think of ways to help them and prayed for them in their time of need.  That helps a lot too- cause it makes me realize that it isn't really all about me.  Hopefully my child will forget the awful things they said, and will only remember that their mommy loves them, was patient, and didn't get angry (that was hard).  That being said, I also prayed about things I was thankful for- that helps a ton!
Here are five:
1.  My safe neighborhood - I was on a walk by myself at dusk, and not once did I feel scared or threatened.
2.  My mom - she is the best example of patience and calmness I've ever known
3.  My health - In recent (some very recent!) times I've had major health scares, right now things are really great.
4.  My husband - he made dinner tonight, did the dishes, didn't mind that I needed to leave to go on a walk, works hard for our family, supports my crazy hobbies, loves me despite my weaknesses....etc....
5.  My kids - the more I considered them, the more I thought of loving tender moments I have with them, EVERY day!  When they hold my hand, kiss my cheek for no reason, run by and say "I love you mama!", sit in my lap while I read to them, and today my favorite was when they played pretend Nora wanted to be 'Kendra'.  :)

Life is pretty awesome.  There are ups and downs, but how much would I appreciate all the wonderful moments if I never knew the hard ones?  Someday I have a feeling Sunday is going to be my favorite day of the week!

A new Caribbean instrument?

At 7:00 am...
Me: sleeping peacefully
Nora:  MOM!
Me: (not sleeping)  huh-wha?
Nora:  Ethan won't let me watch TV, he's been playing the Mimtembo all morning!