Random Thoughts

We all have things that energize us, or "charge our batteries", and things that "drain our batteries." In order to be happy and feel balanced, we need to make time for things that "charge our batteries", and rid ourselves of any battery drainage that is expendable. There most likely are things that drain our batteries, but are necessary. In these instances, maybe we need a 'tune-up' or a new perspective.

I know I'm alone in this, but I really don't enjoy cleaning perpetual dishes and laundry. I had a good wake-up call a while ago when I read this post on a friend's blog, and realized that these things aren't interruptions to my life, THEY ARE MY LIFE. I think there must be stages to acceptance, because even though I realized this, I'm still struggling with those never-ending tasks, and allowing them to "drain my batteries" way too much.

I hope to get to the point where I view the dishes and laundry as evidence of the multitude of physical blessings God has given me (i.e., the fact that I even have clothes and dishes) as well as proof of the wonderful family by which I am surrounded. Maybe then, doing the dishes and laundry will be a "battery charging" experience!?


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Do you think 6 graham crackers with chocolate frosting was too much?


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Our Pack Meeting last night had the theme of "Down on the Farm." As part of the meeting, we split into groups and had different activities in which the boys could participate. The activity that I took charge of was grinding wheat into flour. I have a hand grinder, and LOTS of wheat from James' and my sporadic attempts at food storage.

So, we gave each boy 30 seconds to grind as much wheat as he could. Each boy got to take home the wheat that he ground in a sandwich bag, along with a recipe to make Cracked Wheat Cereal. (Yummier than it sounds, I promise.)

I was amazed how much these boys enjoyed this. Some asked if they could have another turn -- and it really is hard work cranking that grinder. One asked if he could have my grinder -- um, no! Others said it was their favorite part of the evening -- and that was AFTER the ice cream!

On the way home, Ben suggested that we grind all of our wheat, and eat Cracked Wheat Cereal everyday to save lots of money. We talked about putting cinnamon, apples, etc. into it. Then Ben said, "Mommy, you're yummin' me out!" : )

So, there you have it: if you want to be a hit with young boys, have them grind wheat by hand!

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Residency is hard. And crappy. While James and I have both grown in a lot of positive ways during this experience, there have been major sacrifices, and times when we have wondered if it is all worth it. I don't say this to compare my trials with anyone else's -- I don't believe that to be a healthy practice. I'm just saying, . . . if you're young, and you're interested in the medical world: FIND ANOTHER AVENUE to fulfill that interest!!! Might I suggest: Physician's Assistant, Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Physical Therapist, etc.

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I love blogging! I love the outlet it provides me, as well as the connection I feel to my family and friends, whether they are across the country or just a few blocks away! This will be such a blessing to me when I move away from all of my good friends here. Thank you, Heavenly Father, for blogs.

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I don't think I will ever measure up to Ben's expectations for what a "good mommy" should be.

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I can't wait to get my new contact tomorrow!!! Although, my new 'funky' glasses have grown on me! I guess I should always let some middle-aged black man pick out my frames, since I was blind at the time. He did a good job!


Here's to a clearer perspective tomorrow!