raising a mommy

raising a mommy

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

my lenten fast

Today's blessing:
New perspectives

For Lent this year, I will be fasting from anxiety, anger, and resentment.

How's that for a challenge? This is all a part of my attempt to choose contentment, and I would like to thank PK for the inspiration for this one.

Growing up, Lent was all about self-denial for me. I gave up chocolate or candy or meat (my mom was thrilled about that one). Yes, it was a good exercise in discipline and learning how to do without something I enjoyed, but what was the long term benefit for myself or those around me? I'm sure I could come up with something if I really dig at it, but why?

This year, I will be fasting from anxiety, anger, and resentment.

I will choose contentment, and, hopefully, it will rub off on those around me.

What are you doing for Lent? If you don't celebrate Lent (yes, it is a celebration) then how do you challenge yourself?

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

life is good

Today's blessing:
Life.

Things are generally going really well for me right now. Work is good, the baby is perfect, my hubby is amazing, and the next big adventure is just around the corner. Next big adventure, you ask? In August or September, hubby will be starting a year long internship, location TBD. Yes, life is good.

I think contentment is one of the best things a person can feel. According to my dictionary.com app, content means "satisfied with what one is or has; not wanting more or anything else." There's a sense of calmess and peace about it that you don't necessarily get with elation or joy. Joy is pretty great, too, don't get me wrong! However joy, which is defined as "the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying" must be brought on by an external source. Contentment is brought on by you. You're not reliant on anything else. I remember the phrase "Choose Joy" being a thing a few years ago. There might have even been a book or something. If you look at the actual dictionary definition, this phrase is a bit misleading. Joy is not something you choose, it is something that you feel as a result of something that happens to you. You can, however, choose contentment. Choose to not "need" more. Choose to be satisfied. Choose contentment, and be peaceful.

Yes, life is good.

Friday, February 1, 2013

thankful day twenty seven

Today's blessing:
Having a good driver behind the wheel in bad weather.

I'm on my way to southeastern Wisconsin for a Pampered Chef training, and let's just say that the weather is less than awesome. It's pretty much been snowing since we left the Twin Cities. Luckily for me, I'm riding with some fun people who also happen to be stellar drivers!

Added bonus: they are all parents who understand that babies cry sometimes.