Charlotte,
You've learned so many songs and love singing them in the car, while you're coloring, and before you go to bed. However, only recently have you been willing to sing for me on camera. I love your sweet little voice and am so thankful you share it with me.
Old MacDonald Had a Farm
ABC Song
As I capture more on video, I will post them as well.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Giving Season
Christmas is upon us and I can't help but think of the real reason we celebrate such a joyous holiday. I am forgiven and redeemed by my huge God and am so undeserving of His many blessings. This year I feel a draw to celebrate His birth outside of myself and my own family. Be it a maturing relationship with my Savior or the added pressure of raising girls in a take, take, take world, or the need to share the many blessings we have, but I'm on a mission to deliberately give to others each day.
One example of how we brought joy to someone who often goes unappreciated, happened a couple days ago. As I pulled into the grocery store parking lot with you girls, Charlie saw the Salvation Army bell-ringer and said, "I give money and ring bell?". I told you yes, you could give some money but you would have to ask the man if you could ring the bell. While I parked, you practiced what you would say but of course, got shy as we walked up to the bell-ringer. You dropped your money in and tilted your head down but cut your eyes up as you said, "I ring bell?". I had to tell the man what you said because you wouldn't speak up any louder. He smiled big and handed you the bell to ring a few times. You were so excited but of course, wouldn't let on around a stranger.
As we went into the store, I saw the man duck into the lobby where it was warm...it was in the 30's outside and he was bundled up. That's when it hit me, this man needs something to warm him up and I can help! While in the store, I grabbed a big pack of Hot Hands hand warmers. I gave the man a couple packs as we left the store, knowing he could put them into his pockets to warm his hands while outside ringing that bell. I'm keeping a few packs in my purse from now on to hand out as I see people who need some warming up. This time I capitalized on a golden opportunity to think outside of "me and mine" to serve someone else. I feel like I miss SO many of these chances and am determined to change this. I knew I would need an external reminder because I can be so naturally selfish. I found a bracelet I never wear, in the bottom of my jewelry box and wear it daily as a reminder to myself..."Who have I served or what have I given today?". I aim to bring joy to those I encounter and use each opportunity as a learning experience for Charlie and eventually Olivia. I hope to engrain in you girls, the importance of sharing your blessings and the natural drive to serve others.
One example of how we brought joy to someone who often goes unappreciated, happened a couple days ago. As I pulled into the grocery store parking lot with you girls, Charlie saw the Salvation Army bell-ringer and said, "I give money and ring bell?". I told you yes, you could give some money but you would have to ask the man if you could ring the bell. While I parked, you practiced what you would say but of course, got shy as we walked up to the bell-ringer. You dropped your money in and tilted your head down but cut your eyes up as you said, "I ring bell?". I had to tell the man what you said because you wouldn't speak up any louder. He smiled big and handed you the bell to ring a few times. You were so excited but of course, wouldn't let on around a stranger.
As we went into the store, I saw the man duck into the lobby where it was warm...it was in the 30's outside and he was bundled up. That's when it hit me, this man needs something to warm him up and I can help! While in the store, I grabbed a big pack of Hot Hands hand warmers. I gave the man a couple packs as we left the store, knowing he could put them into his pockets to warm his hands while outside ringing that bell. I'm keeping a few packs in my purse from now on to hand out as I see people who need some warming up. This time I capitalized on a golden opportunity to think outside of "me and mine" to serve someone else. I feel like I miss SO many of these chances and am determined to change this. I knew I would need an external reminder because I can be so naturally selfish. I found a bracelet I never wear, in the bottom of my jewelry box and wear it daily as a reminder to myself..."Who have I served or what have I given today?". I aim to bring joy to those I encounter and use each opportunity as a learning experience for Charlie and eventually Olivia. I hope to engrain in you girls, the importance of sharing your blessings and the natural drive to serve others.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Miss Personality
Olivia,
You're getting such a sweet little personality these days. You're going on 6 months old and are figuring out how to make fun sounds with your mouth. You continue to be a happy baby girl and love nothing better than to smile at anyone who will look at you. Thank you for the joy your sweetness brings me.
Here you are blowing raspberries...and spitting...and drooling. You're really good at all of these now and do it when you're happy, tired, hungry...anytime really!
Here is your loud cackle that you do when you're really excited. You're learning to express yourself outside of a grin or giggle.
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