Today Rachael Anne over at Home Sanctuary challenged us to sit down and make a list of what we can do in 5, 10, and 15 minute "pockets" of time. While I have done this exercise before, I thought it would be fun to take my first floor main rooms and group some "pockets" together. Then I went back and looked at my last pockets list that I made here a few years back. What a fun comparison to make! I was in a different season and different home back then so I had a few things on my list that didn't come up this time. But for the most part, a lot of the things I listed were the same quick tasks as before. I just grouped them by room to help me maximize my pockets of time better. :)
Here's what my list looks like now:
In the Kitchen:
Load the dishes/wipe down the sinks
Wipe down the counters
Clean the stove top
Clear off the island
Wipe down the appliances
Empty the dish rack
Wipe the dining room table & straighten the chairs
Change the calendar (Wipe off white board, once a month)
In the Living Room:
Stack attack! (Sort papers)
Dust the phone table and the coffee table
Wipe down the phone
Straighten the book shelves
Check the answering machine for messages (Which often gets forgotten!)
In the Main Bathroom/Laundry Room:
Load/Move along laundry
Wipe down washer/dryer
Straighten counter top/wipe it down
Clean the mirror
Clean the toilet
Replace light bulbs
In the Master Bedroom/Bathroom:
Make the bed
Pick up any stray clothes and put away or in laundry
Straighten bathroom counter top/wipe it down
Clean the mirror
Clean the toilet
Straighten the towels
Other:
Clean out purse
File receipts
Clean out/organize a "junk drawer"
Schedule a dentist/doctor appointment
What a fun exercise and a great reminder that you don't have to have big pockets of time to accomplish Small Things that build Sanctuary in your home!
Showing posts with label Small Things. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Small Things. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Thursday, June 13, 2013
A Question of What Matters
This post is an entry from my hand-written journal on 6/6/2013...
This week Rachel Anne over at Home Sanctuary asked a question that I happen to ask myself quite frequently... "What Matters to You?"
When I started my blog "Seven Matters," I came up with the subtitle "What Matters Most to this Family of Seven." I started out by writing about the Small Things challenges that Rachel Anne would give us to create sanctuary in our homes each day. From there, I began to expand into the different activities, memories, and other fun things that come along with having such a big family. It became a "journal" of sorts. At the time I had 5 small children and I was still a full time at-home mom. Life was busy, but I always still somehow found time to sit down and write. I've always loved to journal, so this was a new and fun way to do just that.
Fast forward six years or so and I am in a totally different stage of life. I would say that most of the same things still matter to me in the areas of being a wife, mother, and homemaker. Now that all of my children are in school though, I have added titles like part-time-working mom, classroom volunteer, and taxi driver! I am finding it a little harder to sit down at the computer to write, so I've gone back to writing in a notebook when I find a minute here and there.
My youngest, age six, is finishing up kindergarten. Kindergarten! I can hardly believe it! I still remember the shy, reluctant boy that clung to my hand the first day of school, unsure of what to think. Every school day this year he has wanted me to wait with him in line outside the door until the bell rings and his teacher comes to lead the children inside. (As I type this, I did that for the last time today, and boy was it hard!) When it was too cold to wait outside, we would sit in the car reading until the bell rang while my other children would play in the gym. He's grown a lot more independent this year but I will cherish those moments together for many years to come.
My other kids are going into 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 7th grades next year. I can't believe I will have TWO Middle-Schoolers next year! Talk about independent. It's a whole new world, the pre-teen years. They start to question the rules a bit and no longer just follow along because mommy said so. On the flip side, they are developing more responsibility and character. Their actions become their own and they are, in my mind, great kids. The most exciting part for me is watching them grow in their own faith and trust God more and more every day.
So what matters to me? Family. That sums it up in one word. I can't make time stand still. My children will continue to grow and have birthdays and move on each fall to the next grade level of school. But one thing doesn't change. I am, and always will be their mom. And I love them more and more every day!
"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him." Psalm 127:3 NLT
This week Rachel Anne over at Home Sanctuary asked a question that I happen to ask myself quite frequently... "What Matters to You?"
When I started my blog "Seven Matters," I came up with the subtitle "What Matters Most to this Family of Seven." I started out by writing about the Small Things challenges that Rachel Anne would give us to create sanctuary in our homes each day. From there, I began to expand into the different activities, memories, and other fun things that come along with having such a big family. It became a "journal" of sorts. At the time I had 5 small children and I was still a full time at-home mom. Life was busy, but I always still somehow found time to sit down and write. I've always loved to journal, so this was a new and fun way to do just that.
Fast forward six years or so and I am in a totally different stage of life. I would say that most of the same things still matter to me in the areas of being a wife, mother, and homemaker. Now that all of my children are in school though, I have added titles like part-time-working mom, classroom volunteer, and taxi driver! I am finding it a little harder to sit down at the computer to write, so I've gone back to writing in a notebook when I find a minute here and there.
My youngest, age six, is finishing up kindergarten. Kindergarten! I can hardly believe it! I still remember the shy, reluctant boy that clung to my hand the first day of school, unsure of what to think. Every school day this year he has wanted me to wait with him in line outside the door until the bell rings and his teacher comes to lead the children inside. (As I type this, I did that for the last time today, and boy was it hard!) When it was too cold to wait outside, we would sit in the car reading until the bell rang while my other children would play in the gym. He's grown a lot more independent this year but I will cherish those moments together for many years to come.
My other kids are going into 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 7th grades next year. I can't believe I will have TWO Middle-Schoolers next year! Talk about independent. It's a whole new world, the pre-teen years. They start to question the rules a bit and no longer just follow along because mommy said so. On the flip side, they are developing more responsibility and character. Their actions become their own and they are, in my mind, great kids. The most exciting part for me is watching them grow in their own faith and trust God more and more every day.
So what matters to me? Family. That sums it up in one word. I can't make time stand still. My children will continue to grow and have birthdays and move on each fall to the next grade level of school. But one thing doesn't change. I am, and always will be their mom. And I love them more and more every day!
"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him." Psalm 127:3 NLT
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Homekeeping Mission statement 2013
We've been talking about setting up a "real world housekeeping schedule" over at Home Sanctuary. Last week Rachel Anne walked us through several simple steps of putting together a reasonable plan that fits our current lifestyle and allows time to "breathe," which is her theme of the year.
I have to say, I've been tweaking mine, and adding to it, and moving things around to see where they best fit in to my own simple plan. Every day I seem to realize something that I forgot to schedule in and I am tempted to make things more complicated and difficult on myself. But I have to remember that it is not about having an immaculate house, it's about turning this place we call home into a sanctuary.
When we were done creating our schedule at the end of last week, I asked Rachel Anne to re-visit the small thing of writing a homekeeping mission statement. I wrote one years ago when I started following along with the Small Things, and then again in 2011. That was before we moved here, so I wanted to make sure that mission statement still fit my current season. I didn't change it all that much, just tweaked a few words and re-wrote it in the present tense. I like how Rachel Anne did that with hers...it had a nice ring to it.
Here's my final draft:
"Our home is a peaceful, simply organized, warm and inviting sanctuary. It is a safe haven where relationships are valued and unconditional love and acceptance are shown. We strive together to maintain a reasonable housekeeping schedule and share responsibilities to keep clutter at bay. It is creatively decorated and affordably furnished to provide a relaxing living environment for our family and all who pass through our doors."
I think it really reflects how I feel about what I desire our atmosphere to be here at home. When I wrote my mission statement two years ago, I had the "three legged stool" in mind that Rachel Anne so lovingly refers to on her blog: peace, order, and beauty.
Now all I have to do is to carry out my mission statement one small thing at a time!
"By wisdom a house is built,
And by understanding it is established;
And by knowledge the rooms are filled
With all precious and pleasant riches."
-Proverbs 24:3-4
I have to say, I've been tweaking mine, and adding to it, and moving things around to see where they best fit in to my own simple plan. Every day I seem to realize something that I forgot to schedule in and I am tempted to make things more complicated and difficult on myself. But I have to remember that it is not about having an immaculate house, it's about turning this place we call home into a sanctuary.
When we were done creating our schedule at the end of last week, I asked Rachel Anne to re-visit the small thing of writing a homekeeping mission statement. I wrote one years ago when I started following along with the Small Things, and then again in 2011. That was before we moved here, so I wanted to make sure that mission statement still fit my current season. I didn't change it all that much, just tweaked a few words and re-wrote it in the present tense. I like how Rachel Anne did that with hers...it had a nice ring to it.
Here's my final draft:
"Our home is a peaceful, simply organized, warm and inviting sanctuary. It is a safe haven where relationships are valued and unconditional love and acceptance are shown. We strive together to maintain a reasonable housekeeping schedule and share responsibilities to keep clutter at bay. It is creatively decorated and affordably furnished to provide a relaxing living environment for our family and all who pass through our doors."
I think it really reflects how I feel about what I desire our atmosphere to be here at home. When I wrote my mission statement two years ago, I had the "three legged stool" in mind that Rachel Anne so lovingly refers to on her blog: peace, order, and beauty.
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| (This artwork is courtesy of Rachel Anne Ridge at homesanctuary.com) |
Now all I have to do is to carry out my mission statement one small thing at a time!
"By wisdom a house is built,
And by understanding it is established;
And by knowledge the rooms are filled
With all precious and pleasant riches."
-Proverbs 24:3-4
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Think Small
I know, I know...you've always been taught in life to "think big!" That's not the case here. In fact, when I started this blog I was thinking small. "Small Things," that is!
Several years ago I was feeling rather defeated when it came to keeping my home clean. Hey, I was just trying to remember to breath with a new baby and four more small children clamoring at my feet for my attention! But then a friend showed me Rachel Anne's blog, Home Sanctuary. She helped me have an entire new outlook on being a homemaker.
As an at home mom, I felt the pressure to always keep my home clean, have delicious meals on the table and make sure everyone was taken care of. Do you detect a hint of perfectionism in there? Well, I was setting myself up for failure.
Rachel Anne made me realize that building sanctuary in my home is not about everything being perfect. It's not about a spotless kitchen, or gourmet food. It's the Small Things that make sanctuary happen. With her help, I've learned that Sanctuary is a three-legged stool, made up of Peace, Order, and Beauty. It takes all of those things together to make my home a safe haven for my family and all who enter here. So after reading a few of her posts, I joined the Company Girls and dug in!
I've learned a lot as I've followed along with the small things since that first day. I've made friendships and won prizes and cheered on other Company Girls. I made it through some really tough times and blogged about some exciting victories. With a little effort and a LOT of prayer, I've come a long way on my journey to sanctuary.
But my journey is far from over.
Now I'm in a new season in my life. All of my kids are in school (grades K-6), and I've gone back to work part time. My schedule looks way different here at home, but I'm still striving towards sanctuary. Every day I remind myself to just breathe. It's the theme over at Home Sanctuary for 2013. Take it one small thing at a time.
Rachel Anne extended the invitation so wonderfully that I'm going to now pass that invitation on to you.
Several years ago I was feeling rather defeated when it came to keeping my home clean. Hey, I was just trying to remember to breath with a new baby and four more small children clamoring at my feet for my attention! But then a friend showed me Rachel Anne's blog, Home Sanctuary. She helped me have an entire new outlook on being a homemaker.
As an at home mom, I felt the pressure to always keep my home clean, have delicious meals on the table and make sure everyone was taken care of. Do you detect a hint of perfectionism in there? Well, I was setting myself up for failure.
Rachel Anne made me realize that building sanctuary in my home is not about everything being perfect. It's not about a spotless kitchen, or gourmet food. It's the Small Things that make sanctuary happen. With her help, I've learned that Sanctuary is a three-legged stool, made up of Peace, Order, and Beauty. It takes all of those things together to make my home a safe haven for my family and all who enter here. So after reading a few of her posts, I joined the Company Girls and dug in!
I've learned a lot as I've followed along with the small things since that first day. I've made friendships and won prizes and cheered on other Company Girls. I made it through some really tough times and blogged about some exciting victories. With a little effort and a LOT of prayer, I've come a long way on my journey to sanctuary.
But my journey is far from over.
Now I'm in a new season in my life. All of my kids are in school (grades K-6), and I've gone back to work part time. My schedule looks way different here at home, but I'm still striving towards sanctuary. Every day I remind myself to just breathe. It's the theme over at Home Sanctuary for 2013. Take it one small thing at a time.
Rachel Anne extended the invitation so wonderfully that I'm going to now pass that invitation on to you.
So think small in 2013! Come join the Company Girls and simply Breathe.I'm inviting you to find that part of yourself that longs to come home to a place that is uniquely "you" and comforts your soul as soon as you walk in the door. I'm inviting you to give up the silly notion of "perfection" and embrace the deep truth that "Home is Sanctuary," no matter how big or small, fancy or plain. It is the place where you create history, find your faith, accept each other's flaws, and give one another strength. It is where you'll find beauty and grace in everyday dishes, tossed backpacks and mismatched socks. It IS there....even if you don't see it right now. I'll show you.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
A Priceless Gift
Sometimes I just need a little reminding to have a positive attitude. Rachel Anne over at Home Sanctuary had perfect timing this morning with her post Glass Half Full.
In her post she says "Learning to have a positive attitude is a gift we can give our children...and is a gift we can give ourselves." A gift. Encouraging words. Understanding. Grace. All gifts that are priceless, wrapped in selfless love. Gifts designed by the Master of giving.
Mornings aren't always the most positive environment around here with 5 kids getting ready for school. Take this morning, for example. I was having a tough morning, being stretched to the limit. One of my boys came to me and said he was sorry for making me mad. I was only trying to teach him that he needs to be responsible for some things on his own in the morning because Mommy can't do it all. I think all he heard was "I'm mad at you because you're making my life difficult." I hugged him and told him I wasn't mad and that I was sorry for coming across that way.
Am I sorry for trying to teach him to help himself in the morning? No. I am, however, sorry for the way I presented the lesson. It must have been in my tone of voice. Or maybe the words I used. Perhaps it was just the frown on my face. I am so thankful that he was brave enough to approach me. My heart sinks to think that I could hurt one of my children with my words. I'm so glad they are quick to forgive me.
I am going to try to have a more positive attitude in the morning. Hopefully it will be contageous... a gift worth wrapping and unwrapping over and over again.
"Let all that you do be done in love." -1Corinthians 16:14
In her post she says "Learning to have a positive attitude is a gift we can give our children...and is a gift we can give ourselves." A gift. Encouraging words. Understanding. Grace. All gifts that are priceless, wrapped in selfless love. Gifts designed by the Master of giving.
Mornings aren't always the most positive environment around here with 5 kids getting ready for school. Take this morning, for example. I was having a tough morning, being stretched to the limit. One of my boys came to me and said he was sorry for making me mad. I was only trying to teach him that he needs to be responsible for some things on his own in the morning because Mommy can't do it all. I think all he heard was "I'm mad at you because you're making my life difficult." I hugged him and told him I wasn't mad and that I was sorry for coming across that way.
Am I sorry for trying to teach him to help himself in the morning? No. I am, however, sorry for the way I presented the lesson. It must have been in my tone of voice. Or maybe the words I used. Perhaps it was just the frown on my face. I am so thankful that he was brave enough to approach me. My heart sinks to think that I could hurt one of my children with my words. I'm so glad they are quick to forgive me.
I am going to try to have a more positive attitude in the morning. Hopefully it will be contageous... a gift worth wrapping and unwrapping over and over again.
"Let all that you do be done in love." -1Corinthians 16:14
Friday, August 17, 2012
Summer Moments
It seems my blog has turned into a once a month thing. While I don't mind that it has taken a seat on the back burner this Summer, I do miss sitting down and writing once or twice a week. When I started my blog it was to share the Small Things that I do on a daily basis to create Sancuary in my home. I still partipate with Rachel Anne and other Company Girls over at Home Sanctuary. I am encouraged on a regular basis by Rachel's posts and the comments that I read there. Like today... I stopped in for Company Girl Coffee, and I was happy to be greeted by a photo of Flash, the Donkey, just hanging out enjoying life.
Sometimes, as I have witnessed this Summer, life just seems to move along at a pace so steady that you don't have time to stop and do the things you love the most. Although this won't be the longest blog post ever, I'm taking a tip from good old Flash and Simply Live in the Moment. Or, if you'll allow it, maybe several moments. I want to share a few of my favorite pictures from this Summer so far.
Thanks for stopping in for coffee. Have a great weekend!
Sometimes, as I have witnessed this Summer, life just seems to move along at a pace so steady that you don't have time to stop and do the things you love the most. Although this won't be the longest blog post ever, I'm taking a tip from good old Flash and Simply Live in the Moment. Or, if you'll allow it, maybe several moments. I want to share a few of my favorite pictures from this Summer so far.
Thanks for stopping in for coffee. Have a great weekend!
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| Watching the gang play "Peanuts" at the Larson Family Reunion...crazy! We "camped" at Camp Kawanis for 4 days and spent time getting to know extended family members making great memories. |
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| The kids with my mom in front of her house in Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island |
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| Me with my 98yr old Grandma. She still lives on her own...I just love her spirit!!!! |
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| The kids climbing the stairs up to the top of the light house at Ft. Casey |
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| On the beach at Deception Pass State Park. I was born and raised on Whidbey Island and have crossed that bridge too many times to count! |
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| Climbing at West Beach |
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| Playing in the water |
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| JS's 10th birthday and MUD! |
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| RL's 11th Birthday Breakfast |
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| Swimming...LOTS of Swimming this Summer!!! |
Friday, May 4, 2012
Company Girl Coffee 5.4.12
Today's Small Thing is to come up with "Creature Comfort" for each of the five senses. Since I was already going to share about our guest room here on my blog today, I decided to take the idea of having company over and run with it.
Sight: Our guest room has a new, fresh coat of paint! We went with two colors, both in the warm grey family. I am going to finish one of my Grandmother's old dressers to place in there and my husband is bringing home a painting to bring it all together. Just in time to have company over this weekend! Yay!
Smell: Chili in the crockpot for dinner tonight! I will be making corn bread to go with it. This meal always fills my kitchen with irresistible aromas!
Taste: Hmm...maybe I should have saved the chili for this one! :) I'm always up for a good chocolate and I have some Frangos hidden away for a rainy day. Yum!
Touch: Hugs and more hugs for our friends that are coming to visit! I haven't seen them since January so they are missed and I am really looking forward to their stay.
Sound: There will be lots of laughter going on this weekend as our children play with their children and the adults visit and play board games.
I love to play hostess and make our guests feel at home. We've known them for years and they are like family to us.
Have a blessed weekend everyone! Thanks for joining me for coffee today!
~Melissa
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| Before |
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| After |
Smell: Chili in the crockpot for dinner tonight! I will be making corn bread to go with it. This meal always fills my kitchen with irresistible aromas!
Taste: Hmm...maybe I should have saved the chili for this one! :) I'm always up for a good chocolate and I have some Frangos hidden away for a rainy day. Yum!
Touch: Hugs and more hugs for our friends that are coming to visit! I haven't seen them since January so they are missed and I am really looking forward to their stay.
Sound: There will be lots of laughter going on this weekend as our children play with their children and the adults visit and play board games.
I love to play hostess and make our guests feel at home. We've known them for years and they are like family to us.
Have a blessed weekend everyone! Thanks for joining me for coffee today!
~Melissa
Friday, April 20, 2012
April Flowers
.JPG) |
| FFA Wa-High Greenhouse |
Today's Small Thing over at Home Sanctuary is to celebrate your history by finding an object in (or around) your home that brings a sweet memory to mind.
The above picture is what came to mind when Rachel Anne talked about sweet memories. It's been 25 years since we closed the doors to our store, but the memories will remain in my heart forever. Now I have children of my own, and I love to take them with me to our Dollar Plus store. They help out in any way they can and we are making memories of our own. I hope that one day, they will look back and smile on these days with fond memories of us building something together.
Why not join us for Company Girl coffee today and share some sweet memories of your own?
Blessings,
~Melissa
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Follow the Crumb Trail
Good morning! And Welcome to any Company Girls who are visiting from Home Sanctuary! :) This morning I'd like to share a story.
Once apon a time...
Don't worry, I'm not going to tell you a story about a boy and a girl named Hansel and Gretal! What I do have to say, however, does have to do with a crumb trail.
It all began in my coffee mug cupboard. I keep my coffee mugs in a space above my coffee maker, separate from the rest of the dishes. It just makes sense to me. Anyway, the other day I went to grab a mug and noticed it had crumbs around the edges of it. "What?" I thought to myself, "These are supposed to be clean!"
Lo and behold, there were coffee crumbs, (ok, they are technically grounds, not crumbs) there in the cupboard. They must have fallen from the basket that I keep my coffee beans in, on the shelf directly above the mugs. I gently pulled out the mugs and wiped down the surface with a wet cloth, creating a freshly clean space for the mugs. It took me about a minute and a half, but it got me to thinking...where else have I missed lurking crumbs?
A quick look around my kitchen gave me the answer and the idea for today's Small Thing. It's simple. Just "Follow the Crumb Trail." Here are a few suggestions:
Clean the crumb tray in your toaster
Vacuum up the crumbs under the dining room table
Clean the crumbs that collect in the silverware drawer (or maybe that's just my problem!)
Wipe the crumbs off the counters
Wipe the cracker crumbs out of the pantry
Clean the bread crumbs out of the bread drawer (or pantry, or wherever you keep your bread.)
Vacuum the crumbs out of the living room couch/chair cushions
You get the idea. We all have crumbs in our life. Just follow the trail and see where it leads you! Like me, it just might lead you to a happy, crumb-free ending!
Where else do you find crumbs? Let us know!
Once apon a time...
Don't worry, I'm not going to tell you a story about a boy and a girl named Hansel and Gretal! What I do have to say, however, does have to do with a crumb trail.
It all began in my coffee mug cupboard. I keep my coffee mugs in a space above my coffee maker, separate from the rest of the dishes. It just makes sense to me. Anyway, the other day I went to grab a mug and noticed it had crumbs around the edges of it. "What?" I thought to myself, "These are supposed to be clean!"
Lo and behold, there were coffee crumbs, (ok, they are technically grounds, not crumbs) there in the cupboard. They must have fallen from the basket that I keep my coffee beans in, on the shelf directly above the mugs. I gently pulled out the mugs and wiped down the surface with a wet cloth, creating a freshly clean space for the mugs. It took me about a minute and a half, but it got me to thinking...where else have I missed lurking crumbs?
A quick look around my kitchen gave me the answer and the idea for today's Small Thing. It's simple. Just "Follow the Crumb Trail." Here are a few suggestions:
Clean the crumb tray in your toaster
Vacuum up the crumbs under the dining room table
Clean the crumbs that collect in the silverware drawer (or maybe that's just my problem!)
Wipe the crumbs off the counters
Wipe the cracker crumbs out of the pantry
Clean the bread crumbs out of the bread drawer (or pantry, or wherever you keep your bread.)
Vacuum the crumbs out of the living room couch/chair cushions
You get the idea. We all have crumbs in our life. Just follow the trail and see where it leads you! Like me, it just might lead you to a happy, crumb-free ending!
Where else do you find crumbs? Let us know!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Company Girl Coffee 3.4.11
Good afternoon! I have been a busy mom lately, but I thought I'd take a minute and chime in for some Company Girl Coffee.The other day when Rachel Anne posted "Grab Bag" as the Small Thing of the day, it reminded me that I never gave a final update on my 28 bags in 28 days. We finished well over 28 bags. It was a mixture of clothing and toys to donate, and lots and lots of trash. It's amazing what you collect when you live in a home for 6 + years!
I learned I big lesson about myself last month. I tend to hang on to things because I think I need them to hold on to the memories. It's as if I think the stuff I own makes up who I am. As I was sorting I really had to ask myself why I wanted to keep certain items. It was very good. Not only was I cleaning up the clutter in my home, but also getting rid of a little "heart clutter." God really helped me work through some tough things that I didn't even know were there.
I still have plenty of time to work on de-cluttering and packing. And God still has plenty of time to work on me. I love the way Natalie Grant puts it in her book The Real Me. "I am not the woman I was five years ago, and hopefully I am not the woman I will be five years from now. I am evolving, changing, becoming. It's not so much who I am but that I am a work in progress, striving to become more like the one who made me."
Have a great weekend everyone! This post is linked up for Company Girl Coffee!
~Melissa
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Sanctuary in the Middle of Change
I've been thinking a lot this week about my Homekeeping Mission Statement for 2011. The first time I wrote one, was back in 2008, when I joined the Company Girl fun and dove into Small Things.
Back then, I had a one year old, a three year old, a four year old, a five year old, and a six year old! Needless to say, I needed that mission statement to keep me sane! Today, my children are a little older, and four out of five of them are in school. Though the wording has changed some, the main statement (in bold) has stuck with me.
HOMEKEEPING MISSION 2011
I want my home to be, peaceful, simple, and cozy. I will value my relationships with my husband and children by showing them unconditional love and acceptance. I will maintain a reasonable housekeeping schedule and designate chores to keep clutter at bay. I will decorate tastefully and affordably, creating a relaxing environment for my family and all who enter my home.
Do you recognize the three elements in the beginning? They may be different words, but they are still the same three legs of an old reliable stool. Peace, Order, and Beauty. You can find the origin of this story on Rachel Anne's Blog.
And now for my big announcement:
My family will be moving to a new location in June of 2011! We have the opportunity to begin a new business adventure in my husband's home town, where his parents still live. I will be blogging more about it in the future, but today I simply wanted to share the good news with you over coffee.
Over the next several months, I will be living out my Homekeeping Mission Statement while I pack, organize, and slim down our belongings. I'll be honest with you. Maintaining sanctuary in our home while preparing for the big move will be a challenge. Hopefully, with a little patience and a lot of prayer, this Company Girl will be able to keep peace, order, and beauty alive in the middle of it all. :)
May all of your homes be blessed in 2011!
~Melissa
Friday, December 17, 2010
Company Girl Coffee...Savor the Smile
Good morning girls! I was going to post something clever this morning but after reading Rachel Anne's post, I thought I'd just have you scroll down so I could pass on a smile during this busy season! Blessings to everyone who reads this...may you find a little something to enjoy, appreciate, and savor today! :)
Enjoy your weekend!
~Melissa
Enjoy your weekend!
~Melissa
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
The Light of Life
This morning when I was taking the kids to school the song "Forever Reign" came on the radio. I cranked up the volume and the kids and I sang all the way to school. The song speaks so many great truths about God. If you've never heard it, I'd recommend sticking around for five minutes or so and listening to it.
Later in the day, as I was lighting my candles for today's Small Thing, I couldn't help but think of Jesus.
He is the creator of light (Gen. 1:3).
His Word is light (Psalm 119:105).
He brought me out of the darkness and into the light. (Ephesians 5:8-9)
He IS light.
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
-John 8:12
Light of the world...forever reign!
Later in the day, as I was lighting my candles for today's Small Thing, I couldn't help but think of Jesus.
He is the creator of light (Gen. 1:3).
His Word is light (Psalm 119:105).
He brought me out of the darkness and into the light. (Ephesians 5:8-9)
He IS light.
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
-John 8:12
Light of the world...forever reign!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
The Little Bitty Small Thing
I've been a follower of the blog Home Sanctuary for a while now. It's a very helpful blog where the author, Rachel Anne, posts what we Company Girls like to call the Small Thing of the day. It involves completing a task that applies to one or more areas of bringing Peace, Order, or Beauty to your home. All three of those areas then work together to create "Sanctuary" in your home. The fun thing about it is that there are points and prizes involved! :) Since it's a new month, I thought I'd just take a minute and talk about today's Small Thing.
Straighten your kitchen chairs or bar stools. That's it. 10 points a pop! Doesn't get any easier than that. I collected 90 points today in about 2 minutes.
So, if you're interested in maintaining Peace, Order, and Beauty in your home during what can be an otherwise chaotic season, stop in and visit Home Sanctuary and join the fun. You'll be glad you did!
~Melissa
Monday, February 8, 2010
Monday Miscellany
It's Monday, and I'm ready to face another week! If only I hadn't stayed up so late last night!
Do you like the new look of my blog? I figured, as long as I'm giving my laundry room a makeover, I might as well do the same for my blog! Thanks, A, for letting me be your guinea pig as you learn a new program! :) I love how colorful it is.
Speaking of the laundry room, I'm still making progress. I have cleaned off the desk and am ready to take it apart. The huge "L" shape just does not fit well in there, so for now, we'll just keep the hutch. I'll be spending quite a bit of time down there today doing laundry, so hopefully I'll get a lot more accomplished.
I took Saturday off from the project to spend the morning at a friend's house making projects of a more creative kind. My sweet friend A (the same one who designed my blog) let me use her craft supplies to make valentine boxes for my kids. Last year the valentines that they brought home got spread all over the house. This way, they can be kept in their special containers. Thanks again A!
Today over at Home Sanctuary Rachel Anne is helping us Menu Plan for an entire month! I tend to be a weekly planner, (I have about 9 weeks of menus, recipes, and grocery lists saved on my computer so far) but if you've never menu planned before, her instructions are a great way to start! Then there's no guess work involved in what's for dinner. :)
Well, I had best get started on my laundry and other chores for the day!
Have a great week all!
~Melissa~
Do you like the new look of my blog? I figured, as long as I'm giving my laundry room a makeover, I might as well do the same for my blog! Thanks, A, for letting me be your guinea pig as you learn a new program! :) I love how colorful it is.
Speaking of the laundry room, I'm still making progress. I have cleaned off the desk and am ready to take it apart. The huge "L" shape just does not fit well in there, so for now, we'll just keep the hutch. I'll be spending quite a bit of time down there today doing laundry, so hopefully I'll get a lot more accomplished.
I took Saturday off from the project to spend the morning at a friend's house making projects of a more creative kind. My sweet friend A (the same one who designed my blog) let me use her craft supplies to make valentine boxes for my kids. Last year the valentines that they brought home got spread all over the house. This way, they can be kept in their special containers. Thanks again A!
Today over at Home Sanctuary Rachel Anne is helping us Menu Plan for an entire month! I tend to be a weekly planner, (I have about 9 weeks of menus, recipes, and grocery lists saved on my computer so far) but if you've never menu planned before, her instructions are a great way to start! Then there's no guess work involved in what's for dinner. :)
Well, I had best get started on my laundry and other chores for the day!
Have a great week all!
~Melissa~
Thursday, December 17, 2009
A Christmas Surprise
When Rachel asked us to share a Christmas memory this morning over at Home Sanctuary, my mind began spinning with tales of Christmas' past. First I thought of marching through the woods to find the perfect Christmas tree as a child. Years of opening one present on Christmas on Christmas Eve and the anticipation of a stocking filled with little treasures brought a smile to my face. Then there were the Christmas dinners! Oh, we never had a very fancy spread, but you could always count on a full house. Our doors were always open to employees from our store that didn't have anywhere else to go. Never let it be said that there weren't enough seats around our table.
Yes, I have many fond Christmas memories. There is one though, that my thoughts landed on this morning that is very dear to my heart. It was nine years ago, and we were spending Christmas at my in-laws. I had been married to my loving husband for six years by then. It was no secret that we were trying to get pregnant with our first baby at the time, but with much difficulty. In fact, we'd been trying for almost four years with no results. With the support and prayers of family and friends and the help of doctors, we held out hope that one day we would become parents.
I love spending Christmas with my DH's family. They open one gift at a time so that everyone can share in the excitement. We didn't have much money that year, but we did have one gift that we put under the tree for his parents. It was one simple envelope. We were sure to place it way at the back, hidden under all the other gifts and it was marked "Open Me Last."
When my Mother in Law finally held the envelope in her hands, she questioned the mystery of it all. We told her that it was a Christmas surprise. You could feel the suspense in the room and all eyes were on her as she opened it.
In the card was a photo and a note. The note went something like this:
"Dear Mom and Doug, in 7 months you will be a Nana and Papa! We're having a baby!"
The photo was a copy of my first ultrasound. Tears began to roll down my Mother in Law's cheeks as we announced that we were finally pregnant. It was a Christmas miracle and the best gift that year. God had answered our prayers.
RL is 8 years old now, and she has three brothers and a sister! To hear the entire story of my journey into motherhood, you can read this post.
Thanks for letting me share my Christmas memory here. I look forward to reading some of yours also.
May God bless you as we reflect on the story of His birth this Christmas Season.
Yes, I have many fond Christmas memories. There is one though, that my thoughts landed on this morning that is very dear to my heart. It was nine years ago, and we were spending Christmas at my in-laws. I had been married to my loving husband for six years by then. It was no secret that we were trying to get pregnant with our first baby at the time, but with much difficulty. In fact, we'd been trying for almost four years with no results. With the support and prayers of family and friends and the help of doctors, we held out hope that one day we would become parents.
I love spending Christmas with my DH's family. They open one gift at a time so that everyone can share in the excitement. We didn't have much money that year, but we did have one gift that we put under the tree for his parents. It was one simple envelope. We were sure to place it way at the back, hidden under all the other gifts and it was marked "Open Me Last."
When my Mother in Law finally held the envelope in her hands, she questioned the mystery of it all. We told her that it was a Christmas surprise. You could feel the suspense in the room and all eyes were on her as she opened it.
In the card was a photo and a note. The note went something like this:
"Dear Mom and Doug, in 7 months you will be a Nana and Papa! We're having a baby!"
The photo was a copy of my first ultrasound. Tears began to roll down my Mother in Law's cheeks as we announced that we were finally pregnant. It was a Christmas miracle and the best gift that year. God had answered our prayers.
RL is 8 years old now, and she has three brothers and a sister! To hear the entire story of my journey into motherhood, you can read this post.
Thanks for letting me share my Christmas memory here. I look forward to reading some of yours also.
May God bless you as we reflect on the story of His birth this Christmas Season.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
A Small Thing Lit Up
Today's Small Thing over at Home Sanctuary was to light some candles. One of my decorations that I bring out every year around this time is my Partylite Snow Globes. I don't think they make them anymore, but they sure are pretty. They hold a tealight on top, play music, and have a motor in them that makes the snow blow. A couple of my motors don't work any more, but they are still beautiful. Rachel asked to see a picture.
Here they are, all lit up. You'd be amazed how hard it was to get a good picture. I had to actually turn my flash off to keep it from reflecting off the glass.
I lit up other candles all over the house too, and it sure did smell nice. Thanks, Rachel, for another great Small Thing! :)
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Are You SnowMiser, or HeatMiser?
I'm determined not to get grumpy about snow this year. Normally I'm more like the HeatMiser, but this afternoon, I took Rachel's advice over at Home Sanctuary, and "Captured a Moment." (Or two or three...) I'll let the pictures do the talking
. 
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Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Siesta Scripture Memory 12.1.09 "GLORY"
Well, I'm a day late, but better late than never. Yesterday Rachel Anne over at Home Sanctuary challenged us to pick something in our lives that we needed to "get back on track." My decision was an easy one. Lately, I have been lacking in regular devotion time with the Lord. It's a variety of things that I let stand in my way, really. I got off track on my "read through the Bible in a year" plan a couple of months ago and felt defeated. I wasn't able to fit the Fall Bible Study at Church into my schedule, so that was disappointing. Family, home, holidays...the list goes on and on. In the process of living, I forgot to tap into my Lifeline, Jesus. It's time to remedy that.This time of year, I get a daily advent devotional in my in-box, in preparation to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus. The scripture readings and devotional topics vary, but they all focus on one thing. Jesus Christ, Son of God. Yesterday the topic was "Glory." Here's what the authors had to say about finding glory in Christmas:
For one thing, you find glory throughout the biblical account of what happened at Christmas. Mary gave God glory in response to the news that she would bear the Savior of the world (Luke 1:46). When the angels announced to the shepherds that Jesus had been born, they sang out, "Glory to God in highest heaven" (Luke 2:14). And when the apostle John wrote about Jesus, he said, "And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father's one and only Son" (John 1:14).
Glory. It's just one of the many traits of the Father. And we can see it in His Son, Jesus. That brings me to my memory verse for the first half of December, John 1:14. I like the New Living Translation best.
So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.May you recognize His glory in your life today and always,
~Melissa~
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Pockets of Time
Today over at Home Sanctuary, Rachel Anne asked us to think about what we can accomplish during small "pockets" of time during the day. This is a list that I have made before, but I often revisit, and revise it as I think of new things to do.
My list continues on, but you get the idea. The important thing is to take advantage of those priceless pockets of time during your day that you don't actually have anything "scheduled." Sometimes if I only have five minutes, I take a water break. I fill my cup, sit down, and enjoy an ice cold glass of water while I re-focus. It's important to take time for yourself too!
Thanks Rachel Anne, for the reminder that there are so many things you can do in small increments of time!
De-clutter my Car: Are you early for a meeting or waiting to pick kids up at school? De-clutter your car! Gather up all the recyclables, including plastic bottles, soda cans and paper, and put them in a bag. Put all trash in another bag. Use a damp cloth or disposable wipe to clean all surfaces. Group any remaining things that you need to remove from your car later, such as clothes and newly purchased items. When you leave your car, take all the trash and recycling with you. Remove the other items as soon as you get a chance.
Prep for a Meal:
Clip, Sort, and File Coupons: If you are a coupon clipper like me, you might have a stack set aside to sort and put away! Coupons can be organized with minimal time and effort. That way when you think of something you need or find something on sale, you don't have to shuffle through a mess of coupons to find the one you need!
Match the Socks: Grab a container and pile all solo socks inside. Match what you can.
Clean up "Message Central:" Wherever messages are taken, clutter seems to arise. Go through any miscellaneous messages or notepads and discard items no longer needed. Test the pens; get rid of those that don't work. Clear off your answering machine.
Clean Off The Fridge: If you have kids' artwork wallpapering the front, consider featuring them in an alternative style. If you keep reminder notes on the fridge, straiten them up and remove outdated notes.
Sort the Mail: Gather all the mail into one place. Don't read the mail--just make piles. Create a pile for garbage, one for bills, one for to-read items and additional piles for other people in the home (i.e. give to husband, child, mother.) When done transfer the piles for others to somewhere they will see them. Put the to-read items in a place you will read them. Toss the junk in the garbage. Return the bills to the inbox.
Go through the Bills: This is best to complete after the task above. Remove all bills from their envelopes and lay flat. Staple of paperclip those with multiple pages. Tuck the return envelope around the bill. Throw out all the miscellaneous offers included in the bills. Stack them in three piles... receipts/file only (if you use auto-pay), to pay within the next 14 days, to pay after 14 days.
Wipe Down the Appliances: Grab the Windex and wipe down the front surfaces of your kitchen appliances.
Clear the Junk Drawer: Empty the drawer entirely. Go through each item and either throw it out or return to its proper place. There is no reason to use up prime storage to hold "junk."
Wipe Down the Microwave: Give your microwave a thorough cleaning--inside and out!
Wipe Down a Shower Door: Spray the front and back and let it "set" for a couple of minutes while wiping down the vanity area. Return and wipe down the shower door. Go ahead...set your timer! You'd be surprised at how much you can get done in only 10 minutes.
Wash a Window: Wash a window (inside or outside--your pick). Be careful on this one though, if you only have 15 minutes you need to have the discipline to stop at one window!
Match-Up Your Media: Return CDs, DVDs, video games and computer programs to their proper storage cases.
Go through Your Media: Do you need to keep the install disks to printers you no longer own or programs you no longer use? Get rid of any unneeded items to make it easier to find what you do need.
Check the Medicine Cabinet: Check the expiration date of all vitamins, prescriptions and medicine cabinet supplies, discarding any expired items.
Toss 10: Find 10 things in your house to donate or throw away.
Sweep the
Wipe down your mirrors
Change a light bulb: Quit walking by that burned out light bulb! It only takes a couple of minutes to replace it with a new one.
My list continues on, but you get the idea. The important thing is to take advantage of those priceless pockets of time during your day that you don't actually have anything "scheduled." Sometimes if I only have five minutes, I take a water break. I fill my cup, sit down, and enjoy an ice cold glass of water while I re-focus. It's important to take time for yourself too!
Thanks Rachel Anne, for the reminder that there are so many things you can do in small increments of time!
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