Procrastination

I have a midterm exam in two days.

I also have an assignment due in two days.

But I don't want to work on either one.

Instead I want to spend time being silly with my kids.

I want to get some fresh air.

I want to CLEAN my house. Not the surface clean with floors and bathrooms, but the CLEAN that is necessary in order to list our house in a few short weeks.

I want to feel like I am accomplishing something today.

Other than sitting alone in my too-quiet room with my computer.

I know that schoolwork is necessary. And that I alone chose to do this.

But somedays schoolwork sucks.

And I also know that by procrastinating I am setting myself up for extra stress later on.

I totally get that.

But that doesn't help when I am thinking and processing a million other things in my mind right now.

I am constantly checking MLS for new listings in our current town (there isn't a lot right now, but the housing prices are starting to climb. finally.) and for the town that we are expecting to find out we are moving to in 5 days.

Yes 5 more days until John signs the paperwork to make it official.

EEK!

Love

John is now home again!!

After his 2 weeks away he is home!!

HURRAY!

The girls and I have all been clamoring for his attention so he's probably a little overwhelmed.

He is so wonderful and had a bouquet of flowers, Lindt dark chocolates and a new movie that I have wanted to see, "The Proposal".

I love him!

I asked Ella tonight what is the best part about having Daddy at home.

She thought for a while and then smiled.

"LOVE!"

I think she has it right.

Chosen: a review

Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther

by: Ginger Garrett

The first in the Lost Loves series, Chosen is the story of Esther—the story of a girl unsparingly plunged into heartache and chaos, who would save a nation ... of Esther, who would be queen.

Wrenched from a simple life for her beauty, Esther finds herself at the mercy of King Xerxes. Leaving behind her only relative, her cousin Mordecai, and her first true love, Cyrus, she is thrown headlong into the unrestrained extravagance of palace living. Quick of mind and strong in spirit, she refuses to suffer the fate of her harem sisters and boldly challenges Xerxes to give of his heart before taking his pleasure, thus sealing her place beside him a queen. While conspiracy spins its diabolical web, Esther's mind and spirit waver, and she is forced to confront the past in order to save her future—and that of an entire nation.

My Review: I have always been fascinated with the unique life of Esther, from the Bible. Here is a simple girl who is "chosen" for greatness. Through her extreme courage she is able to help save an entire race of people. Ginger Garrett's storytelling is very original as she relates this story as if Esther had written a diary of these accounts. Several times I found myself wondering what was fact and what was fiction. This book was well written and I enjoyed following every detail.

Mom Knows Best

This is week two of John being away.

Sure we saw him this weekend, but we spent a full day in the city with family and that is not the same as being at home together.

We text or talk on the phone every night, and this is Ella's highlight of the day when she gets to dial the numbers and talk to Daddy first.

Brie however, is not so easy to convince. She has never been much of a phone talker. In fact she would rather not do it at all.

Our theory is that it's because she is such an emotional girl. She just can't process the sad thoughts when she hears the voice of a loved one that she can't be with. So instead she would rather avoid that at all costs.

Most of the time we respect that. It's her choice and we can't make her talk to someone.

Until today.

The long days of schoolwork, and therefore little quality time with the girls, has left us all feeling frazzled and grouchy. Which obviously doesn't help when John is away.

So after a few yelling sessions"chats" about attitude in these last 24 hours I decided to try a new approach.

I decided that she was in fact GOING to talk on the phone with her Dad. I explained that her grouchiness was attributed to her feelings of missing him and that she would feel better afterwards.

So when it was her turn, she picked up the phone and talked!

For several minutes!

And she was smiling the rest of the evening!

I certainly don't have it all together, and I certainly don't think I have been a model parent these last couple of weeks (or ever!), but I do know this...

I know my daughter and I know what is best for her.

And that?

Is a great feeling.

Brenton Brown "Adoration" CD review

Modern worship songwriter/artist Brenton Brown may be the most popular worship leader you have never heard of. Brenton has five CCLI’s Top 100 songs that are being sung by millions in churches all around the world, as well as played in concert venues and recorded on albums by an acclaimed group of artists, such as Chris Tomlin, Rebecca St. James, Lincoln Brewster and Flyleaf’s Lacey Mosely (familiar anthems as “Lord Reign in Me,” “All Who Are Thirsty,” “Hosanna (Praise is Rising)” and “Everlasting God,” which was honored by ASCAP as one of the most performed songs in the USA in 2007 across all genres, marking the first time that a worship song has been recognized with such an honor).

“Adoration,” which is being released to radio this month, is an encouragement from Brenton to always hold onto hope in the Lord, no matter the circumstances. The song is Brenton’s expression of hope having gone through the painful loss of a stillborn baby girl, Gracie, and the terror of nine months of pregnancy before the eventual joy with the healthy birth of his daughter, Bella.

My Review: As someone who helps lead worship music at church, I have been familiar with the name Brenton Brown for a long time. Some of my favorite songs were written by him, although these songs are usually on someone else's album. So when I heard that Brenton Brown was releasing his own album, I knew that I would want my own copy. "Adoration" features some of his older songs, but also some brand new ones too. His lyrics are heartfelt and the melodies are inspiring. I would definitely recommend this album if you like to listen to worship music at home.

***Album courtesy of Kingsway North America and Graf-Martin Communications Inc. Available in stores Feb. 23, 2010***

Rushed

This weekend was definitely a busy one!

John got home and we left for the city 15 minutes later.

We ran errands, went to appointments, shopped, went to a nephew's birthday party, visited Ray in the hospital, and drove home last night.

This morning was dance pictures, which went remarkably well considering this is the first time that I have 2 girls to get ready with hair and costumes.

We missed out on another nephew's birthday party today unfortunately but it just couldn't all be done.

John is headed back to finish the second week of his course and I needed to work on an assignment.

This afternoon I spent hours working on my big essay that is due on Tuesday. I was amazed with the pages that I filled up today, as my head is not in it today.

Because I am getting sick.

AGAIN.

I was just sick last month.

John believes it might be "stress-induced".

You think?

Single parenting

Heart surgery for Ray

Listing house in the next month

Pending move

Schoolwork

Nah, none of those things cause stress.

Scattered

My thoughts today are very random and scattered, so bear with me!

Today Ray is going for a bypass surgery on his heart. We are praying that his surgery doesn't get bumped as it was originally scheduled for Monday.

I need to finish up a take-home midterm today but it's difficult to concentrate.

I've actually been playing piano instead, since it is a wonderful way to relax.

I've starting working on my newest challenge in piano. In January I decided to work on a shortened version of "Moonlight Sonata" by Beethoven. It has definitely been a challenge to play with the frequency of note changing, as well as the dynamics (loud, soft) of the music.

I think that this song still needs some work, but it has come together quite nicely. Especially considering that our piano teacher was away for all of February. I've actually had a couple of other Suzuki songs come together recently, and it is starting to feel like I am actually a pianist!

Giving myself a challenge seems to work well. It keeps me inspired, and it feels like a great accomplishment once I tackle it. This one will take a lot longer, but with finals coming up shortly I'm sure that I will be practicing even more in the weeks to come!

The song I want to learn?

"Think of Me", from the Phantom of the Opera!!!

LOVE that song!

At this point, I can play the first 8 or so measures of the song hands together, but there are over 60 measures so I have lots of work ahead of me.

YAY! It's good work.

We also have the unofficial word of where we are moving. I will not post the location online, but for those who are interested we are happy with the result. I will update my Facebook in a couple of weeks once the papers have been signed. Or you can email me in April to find out!

Now begins the fun process of house appraisals, listing the house, selling the house, etc.

I actually have had a few people in town asking about our house already. One neighbour was even kind enough to phone me at 8:00 in the morning to inquire. (seriously, 8AM!) Our pending transfer was in the paper (yep, pretty sad, I know!) and she wanted to know when we would be selling our house. That is small town life for you!

We will really miss this house. It is spacious and bright. I love the yard with the MANY perennials, and the garden. This year I have decided that it wouldn't make sense to plant anything. But that makes me sad because I love making trips to the greenhouse. Gardening is so fun!

Once the sale is complete, we can go ahead and search for a new place to live. Believe me, we have already searched MLS quite extensively and have a few possibilities in mind.

Well I really DO need to finish up this midterm exam....

The Right Call: a review

The Right Call

by

Kathy Herman

It’s summer in Sophie Trace, the setting of Kathy Herman’s latest page turner, The Right Call. Based on 2 Peter 2:19b: “For a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him,” The Right Call demonstrates how we’re all slaves to something—either to God and righteousness or to the flesh and its pitfalls.

Ethan Langley is home from college for the summer, eager to renew his friendship with Vanessa Jessup (Police Chief Brill Jessup’s daughter) and her infant son, Carter. Before Ethan is even settled his world is rocked by a random shooting that leaves four people dead, including someone close to him. Ethan tries to deal with his grief by staying busy and concentrating on his growing love for Vanessa. When a coworker from the previous summer, Stedman Reeves, seems somewhat obsessed with the shooting—but also sympathetic to Ethan’s deep loss—the two seem to connect.

While Chief Jessup is scrambling to find a suspect in the shootings, Ethan gets a late-night call from Stedman, who sounds panicked and needs to see him right away. Stedman confesses shocking details: due to a series of bad choices, he is going to be framed for the murders. All the evidence points to Stedman’s guilt, and he knows that there is no way he can prove his innocence. Stedman implores Ethan to go to Vanessa’s mother with this information.

When the wrong people find out that Ethan knows too much, those around him are placed in danger. What should he do? Going to Chief Jessup with the truth could save Stedman from doing life in prison—but it could be a death sentence for and Vanessa and Carter. He’s been dealt an impossible hand, but it’s his move. Will he make the right call?

Best-selling suspense novelist Kathy Herman brings this vivid story to life in her new book, The Right Call, the third book in the acclaimed Sophie Trace Trilogy. Filled with heart-pounding suspense that delivers heart-changing truth, The Right Call uses the perilous story of a young college student to reinforce the importance of walking closely with God, to be armed with wisdom and strength in order to face the toughest of circumstances.

David C Cook/March 1, 2010/ISBN: 978-1-4347-6784-4/352 pages/softcover/$14.99

www.davidccook.com ~ www.kathyherman.com

Click here to view the book trailer!

My Review: Since I was a big fan of the first two books in this series, it should come as no surprise that I also liked this third and final installment of the Sophie Trace trilogy. As always, Kathy Herman's books are full of suspense. The Right Call kept me wondering how the trilogy story was going to be resolved until the very end. I always enjoy the spiritual truths that are a part of each of these stories. The theme for this book was "self-control"; in addictions, in actions, etc. Kathy has a gift for weaving that theme through each and every page she writes.

Ultimate Reno-cation

FreeShopper is hosting a gift card giveaway in connection with this great contest from Royale.

Since we will be moving in the next few months, I have already been thinking of possible renovations in our next house. If I could pair that up with a vacation at the same time....even better!

The Flowering Cross: a review

The Flowering Cross

by: Beth Ryan

A modern-day story of how Christ’s resurrection is still changing lives

Six-year-old Katie’s next-door neighbor Papa Jack has the most beautiful flowers in town. He seems like a mean man to most, but Katie has a special place in his heart. Every Easter Sunday she stops by to get her flowers for the Flowering of the Cross at church. Only this year, Papa Jack decides to come along, and Katie helps him discover the real meaning of the Cross.

Designed to place God's truths in the heart of children, The Flowering Cross, has Faith ImprintTM suggestions thoughout that will help parents share God's Word with their young one.

Also included are instructions for making a Flowering Cross.

My Review: This is a wonderful way to teach the lessons of Easter to young kids! The little girl in the story is full of life and love. Through her kindness to her grouchy neighbour, he comes to understand how much Jesus loves even him. Each page also has a bible verse along with some discussion ideas for parents who want to add even more conversation to the story. It also includes instructions for how to make your own "flowering cross", which is all about thanking Jesus for his love for us. We have read this story numerous times already (sometimes multiple times each day), so it is obviously a hit with kids too. And the timing of reading it is perfect as Easter is not very far away.

Fun

Well today feels a little less crazy than others so the kiddos and I have had some fun.

They each got to bake a cake in the Easy Bake Oven.

We went for a nice walk and they SPLASHED in the puddles!

Unfortunately I forgot to grab the camera, but hopefully next time I will be able to post some pictures too.

Now back to reality, which is schoolwork.

And housework.

We have been doing some SERIOUS cleaning in prep for listing our house next month.

It feels great, but it's also stressful since John is away for the next 2 weeks on a training course.

I am trying not to be overwhelmed, and had a good reminder of that this week, but still life gets crazy at times.

So I think we'll need to have some good dance parties this week while John is away! That helps to keep the stress at bay.

Hey, I just rhymed.

Sorry, I'm tired.

200th Post!

***This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to Tara's View Of The World and Free Shopper!***

Here are your random numbers:

12 8 

Timestamp: 2010-03-22 15:27:48 UTC

This post is my celebratory 200th post and is cause for celebration!

To celebrate I am hosting a little giveaway from one of my favorite Canadian companies, Barefoot Venus.

I absolutely love their products, which is fortunate because they are available in a local gift shop. I have also been the lucky recipient of some of their Facebook giveaways which they do from time to time.

So in honor of my 200th post, I am giving away 2 of their wonderful products.

The Caramel Candy Bath Soak

AND...

The Caramel Candy Whipped Bath

To enter, please go to the Barefoot Venus website and leave a comment to tell me which product you would like to try the most!

For extra entries:

- Follow me on Twitter and let me know in a separate comment

- Tweet about this giveaway as many times as you would like, letting me know each time

- Blog about this post and leave a separate comment

- Subscribe to Little Missus Sunshine and leave a separate comment

- Follow this blog

This giveaway will be open until the end of Saturday March 2ost, the 1st day of spring!!

Good luck!

Mabel's Loot Bags

Mabel's Labels is turning 7 and to celebrate we're giving away loot bags!

Randomly selected orders between March 9-17 will receive a surprise pack filled with Mabel's goodies.

Just a reminder that I have plenty of coupons to share if you want to make an order now. Let me know if you would like one.

Your Shape Wii review

When I was given the opportunity to review a new Wii fitness game I was excited. However I also had some reservations. I'll be honest... I saw the name Jenny McCarthy and thought it's going to be lame and/or annoying.

Your Shape featuring Jenny McCarthy is actually a brilliant idea. Each game comes with a small camera that plugs into your Wii console. The camera can be placed on top of your TV to track your movements. It then compares your movements with Jenny's and lets you know which area of your body needs correcting. I haven't found it to be annoying at all.

Each workout can be adapted and personalized to you. You can choose which areas of your body to work on, and specify whether you want to work on tone, strength or burn. There are well over 400 exercises so it's never the same thing twice!

I have tried Your Shape several times now and I am really enjoying it. I usually do a 15-minute routine so it doesn't take up too much of my day, but by the end (or the middle :) ) I am really sweating. I have definitely felt the burn in my muscles, and I'm seeing positive results.

My favorite thing about this game is how accurate it is. Other fitness games for the Wii (like Wii Fit) have their good points too, but those games are easy to manipulate simply by waving the remote around like a maniac. You can't do that with the camera in Your Shape. I would definitely recommend this game to someone who likes to stay active!

Exclusive!

Get Your Shape featuring Jenny McCarthy for only $39.99!
This limited time offer is only available at Costco from March 8 to March 14 2010.

***I received the Your Shape Wii game free, courtesy of BzzAgent***

Please Pray

My mom's husband Ray (sounds weird to say "my step-dad") was put in the hospital yesterday to undergo several days worth of tests on his heart.

The doctors believe that he may have had a heart attack a little over a month ago while they were away on holidays.

Please pray for his health.

BlogHer '10 Contest

Making the decision to return to school last semester was not an easy one. Making the decision to return to school while being a stay-at-home-mom of 2 busy kids, seemed like an impossible task! Knowing that I could take satellite or online classes was what made my decision easier in the first place. Through these electronic avenues I am able to still take care of my kids without paying someone ridiculously high childcare costs, and I can work on my schoolwork at my leisure, if there is such a thing as a mom.

If I knew that come tomorrow I could not continue to take classes towards my 4-year degree program, I would be absolutely devastated. Yet I think that I would find hope in the midst. I now know that I have this amazing strength inside of me. Strength to work on assignments, write essays, and study for exams, all while maintaining the necessary balance of wife and mother is not an easy task. But I have done it. I am getting good marks, while still playing with the kids, practicing piano, building forts, reading stories, driving the kids to school, going to extracurricular activities, making supper, cleaning the house, and also keeping up my blog. Definitely not easy.

I’m just an average mom doing average things every day. But this also makes me extraordinary, because if I can make it work...anyone can. So I know that somehow I would continue my classes even without the ease of the electronic world. I haven’t come this far just to quit now. Somehow my dream of getting my degree will be completed. Because I am a mom and I can accomplish many things!

***This is my entry for the Mabel's Labels BlogHer '10 Contest***

More Than a Picture

Our family recently made the decision to sponsor another child with Compassion.

Since our first sponsor child was chosen to be of a similar age to Brie, we wanted our second child to be close in age to Ella.

I think this just makes these kids more relatable and they become more than just a picture on the fridge. Afterall we send many pictures and letters to our sponsored kids in order to show them how much we care.

For several weeks now we have been waiting to get a picture of our new sponsor child, Mary, in the mail.

Ella has asked literally DOZENS of times when her picture was coming.

Finally yesterday, our new picture arrived. I promptly put it on the fridge beside the picture of Ashly, our first sponsor child.

When I was tucking Ella into bed last night, this is what I saw...

Mary has made her way not only into Ella's room, but into her heart as well.

How could you not love a sweet face like this?

Kenya has always held a special place in my heart. I'm not exactly what draws me towards that country, but I have specifically wanted to sponsor a child from there for quite some time now. This country is filled with amazing culture and animals, but I know God has placed this country in my heart for a deeper purpose.

Maybe it was for Mary.

Compassion Bloggers is sending another team of bloggers to Kenya this week. Their flight actually leaves today. You can be sure that I will be tuning in daily to read about their experiences.

If you want to welcome a sponsor child not only into your home, but into your hearts as well, you can do so today!