Taking a spin

I love the Disney teacups. Really. There is nothing like the pure joy of watching my kids faces as they first anticipate the spin, then enjoy the spin...then get a bit too dizzy from the spin! I love the squeals, the giggles, the "turn faster, Mommy-s". I love the teacups.

In the real world, some days just feel like they are spinning. And not necessarily in control. Today, was one of those for me. So, I'm evoking images of a much better spin -- a much controlled spin, a spin that definitely has an end! And I'm thanking God for the blessings that are my kids...no matter how crazy this ride, I am glad we are all on it together!!

Tuesdays are Horseback Riding days at our house! They boys got Claire hooked when she was only 4, and they were doing therapeutic riding. Now, Claire has been riding for a year and she is enticing the boys to join her! I'm certain there is a blessing in the ride....but for this non-horseback rider, I fear the snakes out there, am covered with dust at the end, and have no clue how to help my kids "tack up" their horses! But Skippy and Tyrone are beautiful horses and I do love watching my kids smile -- there is a blessing in that right? (Stay tuned for pictures of the two-year-old riding....and I'm sure we'll get Benjamin on a horse again, soon!)

"Play in my house, Mommy!"

If you had told me three years ago, that we were going to add another little one to our then-almost-8-year-old triplets, I would have laughed and laughed. Thank goodness, the joke was on me! Catherine Grace Shrader (Cate) has added so much to our family. From her adoring brothers, to her loving sister, and the parents thrown in to boot, we are all hopelessly wrapped around her little finger. And so, when she says, "Play in my house, Mommy," I tend to drop whatever else and join her.

How long has it been since you had pretend soup? A cup of air tea? Did you use your best manners and always, always ask for more? Life's most precious moments fly right by, my friends. Take a moment today to sit down and enjoy whatever stage your blessings are at -- and by all means, wear a pretty hat to do it!

My new adventure!

I am a total novice at this, my friends! But I am excited to try it and see if it will be an effective way of sharing the blessings of my family with my friends! Bear with me as I learn how...and what to share...and how to make time to share it!