#Gratitude365 Day 43

#Gratitude365 January 30 2014

Driving to my class this morning I was having fun car-dancing all the way. Gratitude to Star 94.1 FM for having some fun music that not only put a smile on my face, but likely to other drivers noticing.

I started working on a blog post yesterday that is not related to this gratitude journey and it was fun to just see where my thoughts were taking me. Writing. Gratitude. That is an awesome by-product of continuing to write about the things I'm grateful for. Kinda cool. I'm still working on that blog post. It's about coffee.

Tonight the kids had their art show at school. I'm grateful that their school has an art show, and has art period. They look forward to the opportunity to be creative. Amberly had her very first chorus performance tonight at the art show. Music education is one of those things that is not offered in very many elementary schools in San Diego so I know how fortunate we are to be at a school that values the arts. I loved hearing Cory tell Amberly that we would be framing her art piece because it's so good.

 California Quail by Amberly Woolley

Our principal saw me and stopped to discuss the Great Kindness Challenge and how we might get it up and running next year with better planning. I really appreciated her following up from the email she already sent me. Having my children continue at this school was a big reason I did not want to move to Austin Texas when that opportunity came up. Conversations with other parents tonight remind me how grateful I am that we stayed here.

My husband has introduced me to the show Comedians in Cars getting Coffee. We watched several tonight and I have to say seeing these conversations unfold where they're truly just chatting with no agenda is pretty fun to watch. An idea that was totally out of the box and is done well. Gratitude for those willing to take a chance and do something totally different. The creatives out there in the entertainment world have to push the envelope to keep us doing the same.

What big or little things are showing up in your gratitude journey?

#Gratitude365 Day 42

#Gratitude365 January 29 2014

People who hold doors open for you. I love how sweet a gesture it is when people are getting going with their work day, making a stop to get coffee and will hold the door open for you going in or out of 7-11. I the door has been held open for me more often at 7-11 than at Starbucks. I kinda wonder why that is. Either way, I'm making it a point to make eye contact with the person offering the kind gesture and hold more doors open myself.

Speaking of 7-11.... when I was getting my coffee the cashier was singing! And he was good too. When people do something to perk you up in the morning and make you smile it is so refreshing. As I paid for my beverage I told him to "Sing it!" and I hope many more patrons grabbing their cup of joe got to feel the cheer he was spreading.

Gratitude for something as common as holding a door open and for something you don't see too often, like the cashier singing in the store.

#Gratitude365 Day 41

#Gratitude365 January 28 2014

Staying home and taking care of my sick boys. Yes. For this I am grateful.

Once upone a time I had a job I disliked a whole lot and one of the challenges was that I didn't feel I had the freedom to miss work and take care of my kids when they were sick. Now I have that choice.

There was a lot of getting up to deal with throw up and by the time my daughter woke up for school I had maybe 4 hours of sleep and was so glad when my husband took her to school and let me and the boys stay in bed til 10am - clearly we needed it. AND he got me coffee. He doesn't even ask, he just gets it for me, knowing it will help me get through the day.

A lot of the day was spent cleaning up from them being sick - and they did fine on the couch with Disney movies - thank you Disney! That might be one thing that makes a sick day a little better, is putting in some of your child's favorite movies so they can take their mind off of being sick.

Random awesome youtube videos. Yes, that is another sanity saver for sick days... especially for mom or dad (whoever is staying home to take care of the sick babes). This one just made me smile.

video by stargirlnyc

One of my mamas saw that my boys are sick and offered to come over and let me borrow her essential oils and difuser. I am so grateful because it is Cory's birthday this Friday and we have plans to all go out for a fun dinner and we want to get everyone healthy and keep those of us who are not sick, healthy! Now I'm trying to figure out which doTERRA oils I want to get to start my own little awesome homeopathic pharmacy.
But really, this wonderful mom drove to my house and brought me everything to try and asks nothing in return.

I was trying to catch up on email and Google+ today and saw this fantastic quote graphic (that Leah Segedie at Mamavation posted) that seemed to be directed right at me:

This coupled with the video business training series I started watching from Christine Kane has me seeing some big shifts coming in 2014. Grateful to see some of the same messages reinforced to help drive them home.

#Gratitude365 Day 40

#Gratitude365 January 27 2014

It had been over a year since the kids had any kind of throwing up - thankful that I have a go-to remedy. Owen started to get sick kind of all of a sudden at 3:45pm and with my husband getting ready to leave for class within the hour I knew I needed to make a quick run to Sprouts for some Oscillio by Boiron. Sometimes when our bodies go a long time without being sick, it seems like there comes a point where our bodies just need to evacuate some toxins. While I spent the night cuddling Owen on the couch trying to keep him comfortable, the big kids were able to entertain themselves quite well and really were champions. At one point I asked Owen if he wanted to take a bath. So glad I remembered that as a good way to give him some relief. After I got dinner on the table for the other kids I went to go check on him and he had fallen asleep in the bath - completely relaxed. I had to sit and observe him sort of floating and so mellow. At first I thought he was maybe tricking me, but I had to lift him up out of the water to wake him.

Also grateful for my husband making a stop to pick up some 7-Up and Pedialyte and chicken noodle soup on his way home from class. By the time he got home I was ready for bed and Owen was too. He of course wanted to snuggle up in our bed, leaving my husband to want the couch so he wouldn't catch any "sickies."

Kyle was next. Just as I was falling asleep Kyle woke up and started vomiting. Grateful that the boys were staggered just enough so i could care for both of them and Cory could get enough sleep in order to be up for work at 4:30am. No matter how tough things seem, it is important to see what we can be grateful for that is going in our favor. There have been times in the past where we felt like all we did was run a merry-go-round of visits to the bathroom and refreshing towels and emergency pans between all 3 kids in one night.

#Gratitude365 Day 39

#Gratitude365 January 26 2014

Last weekend Amberly and I went to Color Me Mine as part of our mommy-daughter date night and today we picked up our snail planter - I love it! So glad we created this together.

Amberly and I continued on to run a bunch of errands. Normally I hate running errands, but having Amberly with me made it more enjoyable.

We both got a chiropractic adjustment and felt great afterwards. Finally getting her added to my plan for that made her very happy. Grateful to have something nearby that is priced reasonably. One of the things I want to be on top of this year is our health, so this was a step in the right direction.

Had some family visit us today. So fun to see the kids enjoy their time with their 2 year old cousin. I also appreciate Cory's aunt commenting on how well behaved the kids are in general. It makes me pause and gain perspective that some of what they do is just them being kids and always have room for that grey area.

Recently I saw a pretty cool video sharing 25 ways to wear a scarf.... so I wanted to go out and buy a few scarves. Today I did. Thanks to this video for the inspiration:

The other day my sunglasses fell off the couch onto the floor and were stepped on. While I attempted to adjust the hinges and frames, they were still crooked on my face. I showed them to my husband to see if it was a lost cause and he got his pliers out and viola.... I have my favorite sunglasses again! I told him I am going to get him a t shirt that says "I fix shit."

Finding joy in little things like giving gratitude has been a good experience.

#Gratitude365 Day 38

#Gratitude365 January 25 2014

I saw a butterfly go by in the front yard as I left to teach my class this morning. A sweet little sign of nature announcing "Hey, look at me! I am here for you to enjoy!" I used to draw butterflies all the time when I was a little girl. Now Amberly draws butterlfies in her drawings. I love it that we have a shared fondness for this whimsical creature. I wonder what the symbolism is in that? 

Christmas is a month behind us and some of those warm fuzzies that floated around during the holidays have been lingering, some of them seemed to have been boxed up with the Christmas decorations. I'm choosing to be grateful for the ones that are still floating around. For instance the way I see the kids all want to do the same thing and be silly together. Tonight, Cory played Vanilla Ice's Ice Ice Baby on his phone and that immediately had me put on the brakes and start moving. Then Owen wanted him to put on my favorite song, Blurred Lines, which the kids hate. Owen asked me why I like that song so much and I said "It makes me feel like I'm in high school." Things that make us either feel youthful or remind us of "the good ole days." have a way of standing above the rest. The best part was when Gangnum Style came on and Kyle danced his way down the entire stairwell and took over as the little hhip hop dancer! In the past I've wanted to record him, but this time we just embraced the moment and it will live in our memories. We need these crazy impromptu dance parties to blow off steam and laugh. So good for the soul to see everyone share in the moment and feel included and have their part. These moments are the ones. The ones we wait for. The ones that make everything else worthwhile.

Gratitude for butterflies and dance parties. I know there will be many more of them to share this year.

#Gratitude365 Day 37

#Gratitude365 January 24 2014

It was crazy hair day at school today. Had to take a moment to stop and realize how big these kids are getting and how fun it is to have them participate in these things that I remember from my childhood.

Housecleaning. It always feels so good to have the house clean!

Kyle had his friends over and watching how happy he was playing with his two buddies after school really made me smile.

Amberly made sure I got the copy of the song that her choir teacher wants my help with showing the kids the signs for... I just beam when any of the kids want me to come into their class and sign with them!

Cory made tri-tip for dinner. Steak night is always a good night in this house.

Gratitude for all the little things even whent there are hiccups along the way. I'm finding that the way I feel about the day overall is more positive than negetive.

#Gratitude365 Day 36

#Gratitude365 January 23 2014

This video that was shared with me this morning has been on my mind all day. I'm really moved to see something scientific based showing how much the energy of our words and thoughts impact things around us. Here's the video. I hope it inspires you like it did me.

After watching it I had to post immediately to G+ with a confession and a committment. I'm very grateful for how a social media share with this link is the call to action I needed. Choosing our words and tone is not always easy, but it is worth it!

#Gratitude365 Day 35

#Gratitude365 January 22 2014

Two weeks ago I met up with a group of local mompreneurs and today we met again for informal networking. I was having computer problems and posted to the group that I wouldn't be able to make it. Then after doing so I remembered how happy I was to connect with some of these women two weeks ago. I asked my husband to take the sick patient (my laptop) and cure it and borrowed his laptop to take with me so I could get the few things online done that I needed to and still meet with these women. Keeping with my commitment, finding a way, that is what I'm grateful for today.... AND a husband who knows his shit when it comes to computer problems. Thanks babe!

Plus, I got a facial today. With the dry weather we've been having here in San Diego I needed some extra moisturizing attention and my friend Karen at Firefly Wellness helped my skin feel nice again.

My daughter has student council meetings before school on Wednesday and my husband not only manages to get her there on time, but returned with coffee for me. He knows I'm trying to cut out the sugar and get away from the cappuccinos so he came back with coffee and flavored cream added. Gotta love the support system when you're making changes in your diet. Lots of gratitude for the universe lining things up that I caught this fish!

#Gratitude365 Day 34

#Gratitude365 January 21 2014

Loved getting a tip that I can take action on in the Marie TV episode today. I watched the episode twice to really digest it. Gratitude for the people out there who share great content and make a difference like Marie Forleo does. Being that the topic was about money, I figured it is a good one to share and help shift any mindsets around money that can create more abundance in your life too. Cuz who doesn't want that?

Cooking dinner with my husband was the best part of my day. We don't do this on a regular basis, but when we do, I feel happy. The connectedness that happens when preparing food with your partner may not have any parallels. I'm grateful for the times we do cook together. It has been on my bucket list to cook a meal naked together - hasn't happened - maybe this year haha!

Connecting with people. I'm so glad to be "meeting" new people on G+. Expanding your circles and connections is useful for business for obvious reasons. But I find that I am entertained and learning neat things all the time on this social network. I will be curious to see at the end of 2014 what kind of things come from getting to know some specific people that I'm particularly inspired by.

Sometimes I find the things I post my gratitude for on one day are quite random in nature with nothing stringing them together except that my eyes were open to recognizing these things on the same day. Are you keeping a gratitude journal of sorts? What were you grateful for today?

#Gratitude365 Day 33

#Gratitude365 January 20 2014

I received an email from Kids for Peace sharing that there are over half a million kids participating in The Great Kindness Challenge next week. When others show you gratitude in the work that you are doing it just feels nice to be valued. I have no doubt that I have met Jill McManigal out of pure laws of attraction. My own children have been apart of bullying and it has not been something I knew how to deal with at all. Having the connection to Kids for Peace has been keeping me mindful of what is possible and how I can help not only KFP in their reach ons ocial media, but in effect at my own children's school. So much gratitude for how the univers aligns to help you.

While creating some images for their twitter account I converse with some pretty neat people who are doing important things to affect change and it continues to inspire me, lets me know we have far more good in the world and for that I am grateful.

We took the kids to Legoland today, and it wasn't crowded even though plenty of people had the day off in observence of Martin Luther Kind Jr.'s birthday. Short lines are awesome! What is funny to me is how much they all want to play at the various "playground" areas within the park. We've thought about doing the miniature golf before, and today we actually did it. We had so much fun! Pretty sure we'll be doing it again.
This reminded me of the ice skating thing I wrote about before... sometimes you wait on doing something until you think everyone in the family will really enjoy it and today it payed off. In fact the two things we considered as family outings today were whale watching tour or Legoland - and frankly I'm just not sure Owen is ready to be on a boat for 4 hours just yet. In the past I sometimes just jumped in and crossed my fingers hoping for the best. Grateful that these parenting stripes I've earned have me giving proper consideration to how it will affect each of us.

This was kind of a fun tweet I received today after sending in a photo via twitter to Good Morning America in response to the Dove campaign requesting mommy-daughter selfies.



KC ‏@kcifeanyi 10h

@sign4baby loving the selfie! i do the social media for @GMA--may we use your photo on-air?

So this photo may just show up on GMA - who knows!

I'd love to know if your gratitude journey is moving you to be more aware of what you're grateful for and if you if you take selfies with your kids like I do?

#Gratitude365 Day 32

#Gratitude365 January 19 2014

Mostly I am grateful for a day that I didn't get out of my pajamas. We need those days from time to time and that was this day.

I got up with the kids and made them pancakes. It's nice to do something for the kids that they enjoy. And we had both chocolate chips and blueberries on hand so everyone was happy - including me! Grateful for pancake breakfasts on Sundays ; )

Because I got up with the kids on the day that I normally sleep in as a favor to my husband I got to pull in a favor too - Costco shopping. He's so fast and doesn't lolly gag looking at stuff like I do. Plus, he had showered and I was having a pajama day. It worked out. He got us fully restocked on everything and made an extra stop at the grocery store too.

Oh, we had family movie night. My husband picked something quite random.... Princess Bride. I can't recall the last time I saw it, but I think I was in high school. I so enjoy seeing the kids get their special plush chairs and pillows and blankets to lay on the floor in the living room for family movie night. I don't really remember having a special tradition like that growing up and I love that we've created this.

Cuddling and laughing on the couch with my husband. I think laughing with your partner is the best aphrodisiac - or maybe it is the other way around. Either way it makes me happy.

#Gratitude365 Day 31

#Gratitude354 January 18 2014

Today I had a deaf mom in my class for the first time ever. Her name is the same as mine. I think it is no matter of chance that she ended up in my class. After class I had such a sense of fulfillment in being able to provide a social experience for this mama and baby where in other mommy & me classes she may feel isolated.... here I hope she finds some moms who want to practice outside of class and grow some friendships!

Tonight was mommy-daughter date night! Every year my husband takes the boys to see Monster Jam and Amberly and I go to Color Me Mine to get our creativity on. First things first, we had to eat. We settled on Panera Bread and it was so good! I tried a new salad that normally I would take a pass on. Yay for trying new things!

I have to give Panera Bread props because they serve chicken that is antibiotic-free --- I love it when places that I already patron make strides towards better choices for their customers.

Next stop. Color Me Mine. We typically paint our own individual pieces, but this time we chose to paint something together and I think it is going to turn out great!

We capped off the night out with a Butterfinger Blizzard at Dairy Queen. Oh. Yum!

We don't go here often - maybe 2 times a year - but when we do I enjoy it so much!

Mommy-daughter dates need to become a regular thing. We had such a good time hanging out doing stuff we both enjoy.

Do you have date nights with your kids?

#Gratitude365 Day 30

#Gratitude365 January 17 2014

Kyle needed some help with spelling and I started to work with him on word families. Yesterday it was quite the chore to get it done. I was quite spent after spending probably 45 minutes with him to get these word families or word chunks completed. I spelled out a plan for the long 4 day weekend that we would visit 7 each day. Sometimes I dread having to follow through on something I throw down the gauntlet on, but today we probably only worked on it for 15 minutes! He had a much easier time with it. Part of it could have been that I motivated him by saying he had to complete this before his friend came over today.... but it worked. It worked so well that I offered him an option to review yesterday's word families really quickly for extra video game time, and he went for it! Today we went over 84 words and it was a breeze. In fact I really enjoyed that he sat in my lap to do these. He rarely wants to cuddle.

Here's a picture of a sample from the box so you get an idea of what this is:

Grateful that I spotted this word family set at Lakeshore Learning Store when we did our Christmas shopping. Wish I had started using them earlier and been more diligent when they had these homemade ones in Kindergarten because it is an effective tool. So effective in fact that Kyle was even coming up with additional letters to throw in and come up with more words that fit in the word family!

Has there been a time where an educational tool or practice really turned things around for your child? It is such a good feeling to help others, so by all means post below about what has worked for you.

#Gratitude365 Day 29

#Gratitude365 January 16 2014

Recently I got new bras. Apparently it is a good idea to replace them every six months. Let me tell you it had been way more than 6 months. I wore the other ones until the clasp broke or the wire poked through. I was constantly readjusting my bra straps. Today I declare I won't wait that long before buying new bras. I happen to love Victoria's Secret when I do my bra shopping. This was the first time I'd ever shopped for them online and was pleased that I picked something that fit so well and is so comfortable!

Ladies, you know how good it feels to get yourself some new bras.... but if you're not sizing yourself properly you might not understand. Be sure to go in and be measured properly. Quick tip I read online a long time ago: start by clasping from the furthest out and over time as the elasticity of the bra stretches, clasp one more closer to keep everything fitting. If you start with the tightest clasp, you have no more options when the elasticity wears out.

Oh! And, just one more thing....

Sunshine. We have been having one heck of a winter. It is as if summer has come to replace it. I don't know weather to rejoice in all the beautiful sunshine or to be worried that we don't have enough rain. For now I'll just look at the 86 degrees as a blessing and enjoy the sunshine while it is here.

#Gratitude365 Day 28

#Gratitude365 January 15 2014

I love that simple things like bringing home the class stuffed animal makes Owen happy. When he shared it with his brother and sister they came up with an idea of drawing some scenery as a backdrop to create a "home" for Zebedee. Every once in awhile you see collaboration emerge in the most interesting of circumstances. There was no telling that they would take an immediate interest in Zebedee and want to work on something fun for Owen to take back to his preschool class and share.

Giving some gratitude for watching my kids do something together that clearly brought them all joy!

#Gratitude365 Day 27

#Gratitude365 January 14 2014

I forgot my phone today when I left. In the past this has left me feeling naked or in a panic that I may miss something or someone may NEED me. It is easier now to think about how once upon a time we survived without cell phones at all. Our children won't have that sense. I'm grateful for technology, and grateful for the ability to survive without it.

Beautiful San Diego weather. Today it was 80 degrees here. I must have marveled over that fact half a dozen times today. How I love a sunny day! I grew up in Minnesota, so I know cold weather, which may be why I do not take this kind of weather for granted.

I actually used our Vitamix today. I've been saying I'm going to use I more. So, there, I used it once so far in 2014. The kids were not especially fond of the smoothie. I never follow a recipe. Maybe that's the key, to find a healthy and easy recipe so they will always like the concoction. Darn Jamba Juice has spoiled their expectations of smoothies haha! I'm glad I have this awesome "blender" and can easily add more nutrition into our diets by blending something up.

Sometimes things don't go as planned. That happened more than once today. I'm glad for the most part that I can roll with the punches and let things work themselves out. That kind of outlook has served me well. Rushing things doesn't pay off.

#Gratitude365 Day 26

#Gratitude365 January 13 2014

Today I got a facial. I so love those days that I can catch up with my friend Karen, both personally and professionally. I've been on this regiment of taking better care of me and I'm continuing my twice a month facial regiment - so a little shout out to Karen at Firefly Wellness! Thank you for helping make my skin look better!

After picking up the kids from school today, everyone agreed they wanted to go to the park. I love when they all agree to go so we can have some extra outdoors time. I met the father of one of Kyle's classmates who was sharing their experience with Children's Hospital. One never know when these tidbits of information are going to be vital. And knock on wood, because I don't want to have to use this information as I rather like the fact that we don't ever see the inside of hospitals, aside from going to give birth. AND I recognize how super lucky we are to not have long hospital stay experiences or medical issues that cause for all kinds of testing that can be hard for an adult to sustain, let alone a kid. Giving gratitude for good health!

Owen is a hugger. I will be honest that sometimes I get touched out and with his 10th hug in 2 minutes I want to put up a barrier at times. Well, today he destroyed that barrier when he asked "Mama, does it make you happy when I kiss you?" and then follow up with "Mama, does it make you happy when I hug you?" Yes, my sweet Owen, it does make me happy. I will be remembering those questions with your future hugs and kisses!

#Gratitude365 Day 25

#Gratitude365 January 12 2014

 Fireplaces. Yes, that is something that I take for granted. We don't use it often, but when we do, I just love how it adds to the warmth, figuratively, of the room. It is a wonderful mood setter. Bow chika wow wow.

Despite the Chargers loss to the Denver Broncos, I enjoy the spirit that Owen has in sharing a love of sports with his dad. It brings an air of joy to the house to hear him running around chanting "Let's go, Chargers! Let's go, Chargers!"

I got to nap. This is the second nap this month. I am not sure why I felt so incredibly tired, but it feels so good to be at a point where one of us can handle the kids for a couple hours and give the other one a break. It is as if our bodies are catching up on all the years of less than quality sleep with our babies so close in age and taking FOREVER to sleep through the night. I will be posting about every single nap I am gifted because I so appreciate them!


We tuned into the Golden Globes, mostly because my husband loves Tina Fey and I admit that she and Amy Poehler make a great team. My favorite acceptance speech was Matthew McConaughey's. Ever since he exclaimed "Gentlemen, start your engines!" at a NASCAR race, I've always teased that he's on my "list."  I haven't seen the movie he was nominated for, but now of course I MUST see it. I had started to get a little disappointed with how scraggly he will go for a role... did you see him in Magic Mike? Ick. And this coming from a girl who is a big fan. Anyway, the part I loved about his acceptance speech was when he thanked his mother:

"A time like this, makes me want to say thank you to my mother, for this reason: when we were growing up, we weren't movie kids, we weren't TV kids, we weren't even media kids. If it was daylight, you had to be outside playing, and we were like, 'Why mom, why can't we watch 30 minutes of TV?' and she was like 'Don't watch somebody on TV, do it for you, get out there and do it for yourself.' And now, this many years later, I'm like, 'That's a pretty good recipe for an actor, to go be the subject of whatever you're doing.' So thank you mom for that."

I just have gratitude for people who thank their mother. It is the kind of thing we say is important, but not necessarily everyone is putting it to practice, and by putting it to practice, I mean teaching our sons to grow up and show gratitude for the lessons their mother taught them. 

I never know what's gonna pop up in my day to be grateful for where we are in kick back and relax mode, but there is plenty when you just  look through the right lens.

#Gratitude365 Day 24

#Gratitude365 January 11 2014

I had such a wonderfully engaged class in the morning... in fact I was so on a high from teaching this class that I posted something very different on my Facebook Page:

This morning's class totally went over the 45 minutes it is scheduled for - but that is what happens when I'm engaged with your sweet babies and the magic of communication is being born! Having no classes since Thanksgiving was a much needed break and I have felt the energy of that refueling myself as I returned to classes this week. I had no idea how much I was missing it in those several weeks off... Thank you for being part of this community!

One of the mamas works at The Childrens School and it is a place I have stated in the past I'd love to teach at and have my children attend. When we were chatting after class, she said she thought of me and how I should be teaching baby sign language to their toddler class. Ummm, yes! You just never know how conversations will steer a way that causes you to find a connection that can be beneficial. So grateful for the universe putting this sweet mama in my class and then creating this post class conversation.

When I got into the car and turned on the radio the song that came on took me right back to my youth
"Good Vibrations" by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch..... anyone else love that song as much as i do? I still remember it coming out when I was in the 8th grade and when my sister and I would watch MTV (remember that channel?) we'd be dancing along -- my sister would tell me how good a dancer I was and I just loved that compliment. I sort of wish I had a video of me dancing at that age so I could laugh ; ) AND of course when this song was on today I was fully car dancing, singing like I was one of the backup singers. So much fun.... so thank you to Star 94.1 for playing an oldie and putting me in the happy zone. Here's the video in case you want to go back to the early 90s:

I stopped to get gas - grabbed a bottle of water and a banana for a snack - yay me for choosing healthy! I'm really trying to eat right and find it is hard to make those choices when you're on the go.

On my way to teach another class I was pulled over.... for not wearing my seat belt. The gratitude I'm going to give in there is that the CHP officer was very kind and didn't cite me for not having my current insurance paperwork. He stated that the night before a 3 person car accident resulted in 2 fatalities because they were not wearing their seat belts. Last year I made a resolution to not text and drive. This year my resolution as it relates to driving is wearing my seat belt. Once upon a time I was really good about wearing my seat belt and then with my first pregnancy they were becoming increasingly uncomfortable to use and I've had a bad habit ever since. Bless my kids though because they tell me often to buckle my seat belt, which I do. My husband used to say "Buckle up, buttercup." He was not happy about this ticket. My thoughts to the families who lost someone last night and a promise to wear my seat belt, because it is true what my friend replied with on Facebook "You don't want your kids to be told mommy is gone because no seat belt." Grateful that it was a ticket and not an accident.

Do you ever have a day full of good that when even something like a traffic ticket happens, you're able to shift your thinking and see "the good?" Be sure to comment and share because sharing your gratitude leads to more gratitude!

#Gratitude365 Day 23

#Gratitude365 January 10 2014

Owen had his first day at a new preschool and when I picked him up he said "Mom, my day was AWESOME!" That is what we want to hear when our child goes into a new environment and doesn't know anyone. His teachers made him feel incredibly welcome and sent me pictures to show what he was involved in during the day. He went on and on about how much he liked his new preschool and made a new friend and what they're doing next week. Because he has been stuck at home the last 3 months after a reprieve from preschool, it was just nice to know he really appreciates being around his peers and learning.  He shared with me that he followed the rules so we went to Jamba Juice to celebrate his first awesome day - I just love his smile here:

And then he wanted to pretend to rock climb -- my boys are little monkeys climbing on anything and everything:

I had picked up my contacts the day before and finally got rid of contacts that were long over due to be thrown out - oh it felt good to have fresh contacts! No more irritated eye!

Watched one of my favorite Hangouts on Air to date - The Mia Connect Power Chat - and one of her guests, Leah Segedie of Mamavation got everyone laughing with her KloutKlaps.... it was legendary! Thank you all for the laughs!

Are you on this #Gratitude365 journey yet? Share with me below because the more gratitude we put out in the universe - the more we end up being thankful for!

#Gratitude365 Day 22

#Gratitude365 January 9 2014

1. People who can make you think differently.

2. The vast amounts of education available at our fingertips due to the internet. And especially now with Google+.

3. Having a moment to be real and push back a little bit with a public post to give people something to think about.

4. Witnessing a father be a good teacher to his son.

5. Songs that come on the radio that make you feel good.


I felt the need to list out the things I found gratitude for before I write about them in depth so I wouldn't forget them. It was a full day and I know there are more than the 5 I listed above, but I'm finding I can write on and on about ALL THINGS so I kind of have to cap it and eventually get to bed!

People who make you think differently. This stems from watching an amazing TED X talk by a 13 year old boy who is wise beyond his years, sharing what he wants to be when he grows up. He breaks down how his ambition will be realized because of the homeschooling experience that he's having. I know some people who homeschool, and I have sort of envied them on one side of the coin and on the flip side of the coin thought they were nuts to take that on. Well, now after watching this video I think if they have the same hackschooling philosophy that Logan and his mom do - then they are brilliant!

The vast amounts of education available at our fingertips due to the internet. And especially now with Google+.... We love learning, well, at least I do. Television is for entertaining and the internet is for connecting and researching and G+ seems to be ALL of it - but most of all inspiring learning. I just love how much I have learned by being on G+ -- and seriously being around people who share their ideas and their knowledge and express their creativity has rubbed off on me because I worked on a couple of infographs - which I'd never considered creating before. I'm still working on them, using the resources online to figure it out.

Now, number 3 above I'm not going to retype - I'm just going to copy straight from my Facebook page:

I have heard this comment on a handful of occasions in reference to what I do "it's not rocket science."

Yep.

You're right, it's not. And neither is what you do. But I offer far more than vocabulary in my classes. I make it fun! I offer you a chance to see what's in your blind spot. I save you a ton of time in tracking down the information online and present it in an organized, easy to learn fashion. Plus, I keep you committed to your goal. I even inspire you to adopt a new goal of why you're bothering to sign with your baby. I don't JUST teach ASL vocabulary. It's NOT rocket science. But, just like any rocket scientist, I have a passion for what I do, continue to hone my skill, and appreciate when someone recognizes my specialty.

Witnessing a father be a good teacher to his son. We were in the family restroom at the mall and a father and son came in, his son about 11 years old. The son looked around at the breastfeeding stalls and asked what it was. His father replied that it was an area for moms to breastfeed their babies. Now we were walking out of the family restroom and I could hear the son asking what that meant or something of the nature. Without skipping a beat the father said while looking directly over at his son "It's when a mother feeds milk to the baby from her breast." Having nursed 3 children over the span of 6 1/2 years I am a big breastfeeding advocate - and Nursing In Public advocate for that matter. I just thought this was such a win. A simple moment to realize that if a man can tell his prepubescent son with great ease what breastfeeding is, then we are making great strides in the stereotypes surrounding breastfeeding.

Oh, and the last one.... Blurred Lines came on the radio when we were driving home and I of course got my car dancing groove on. My kids hate the song, we certainly hate when they yell and scream in the car, but when this song comes on, I turn it up and sing along and the kids just have to wait it out.

Alright. It's your turn. Can you think of something really cool that happened that just made you go "Wow, I'm really grateful for that" --- comment below as I'd love to celebrate your gratitude journey as well.

#Gratitude365 Day 21

#Gratitude365 January 8 2014

Over a month ago I proposed a meetup in real life with some mompreneurs and today we came together. It was awesome to meet some new people and find out what they're up to and not so much have an agenda. We agreed to keep meeting twice a month with no specific purpose. Keeping it casual is super useful so if any of us has a question or need for help on a project it is an open dialogue. Ideas can flow so easily too in the discussion. I'm so grateful for having a group of moms who are business owners that are all connecting to support one another in our learning and expanding.

Bonus was that I got to chat with Amy from Hippilongstockings for a little bit afterwards. She happens to be one of my newer friends who I started following on twitter and have fallen in love with what they do in their "Gift of Good" mission. It is awesome to surround yourself with REAL people striving to be good people, really conscientious of their actions and existence. People who influence us to be and do better ourselves are like that angel on the shoulder telling you what you should do - come to life and just SHOWING you what you CAN DO. Much love to you Amy for being that kind of mama sister.

Do you have someone in your life who is an amazing mama sister that you want to acknowledge?

I have several and I will certainly be sharing my gratitude for each of them in future posts.

#Gratitude365 Day 20

#Gratitude365 January 7 2014

One of the crazy benefits of these posts? I know what the date is every day. That may seem funny, but really I lose track of the date all the time!

My husband must love me. He tells me about my hair clogging the drain and messing with the vacuum all the time. He's been hinting at me for the last few weeks to give snaking the drain a try. Today he must have reached his threshold of tolerance because he decided around dinner time to clean it out. I was tempted to take a picture to share - but honestly, it was just too gross. The pipe had become corroded and needed to be replaced, so his quick little drain cleaning turned into a bigger project. He got it done though after a trip to Home Depot. I put the kids to bed in trade (tonight was his night). Two things I'm grateful for in this experience:

1. My husband is handy around the house and can do these things. It was never part of my wish-list in finding Mr. Right that he be a good fixer, good with tools and that kind of thing, but I certainly ended up with that kind of guy. Usually it is when my mama friends on facebook are complaining about stuff not getting fixed that I remember to appreciate that about my husband, but today his actually doing it made me appreciate it and not take it for granted.

2. He did not complain while he was doing this. He teased me a little and had me take the bucket outside, but in all honestly if he had complained I would not have faulted him for it.... SHIT, I didn't have any desire to get under the sink and figure out how to open up the drain/pipe and get the gunk out - and he did it. He must love me.

We need a sink trap. Tomorrow I'll make a stop at Target. That's the least I can do.

In business, I received a call from the Del Mar Library inquiring on having me come present a workshop to their new parents so I'm thrilled about scheduling a quarterly workshop with them and helping more families get an overview on signing with babies and what makes it so special! Oh and I got to make a stop at Lakeshore Learning Store today and found the cutest book by Todd Parr that I can't wait to bring into my Signing Story Time program - this picture says it all:

I have found some really awesome books there! So many great authors and illustrators that teach our kids important lessons in disguise of a story. It is truly remarkable to have talents like that be used for such good.

My daughter was being quite witty today and I was laughing, thinking "Wow, she is really funny." I don't think I was funny at her age. It has been really fun having an 8 year old in the house - on so many levels. I didn't really understand when parents would express how a particular age their kid was, was now their favorite age to parent... but I have to say the conversations and thought provoking statements and questions she poses, extra help with the house and her brothers, coming up with ideas on her own that seem well above her age all have m really appreciating the wonder that she is. Tomorrow I get to take her early to school for her first student council meeting. I think she is excited about this new thing, but doesn't want to let on too much.

Seriously, I do have to stop and pat us on the back for a minute. It is not easy to say YES to the things our kids ask of us to grant them permission. There's more work on the parents' part to allow them to do extra, and more money. I was not afforded those kinds of opportunities, mostly for the sake of my parents not being able to afford extra curricular activities. I'm grateful for the ability to grant her the experience of being in soccer, softball, choir and now student council. It is really fun watching her grow up.

Lots to be grateful for today! Have you considered taking this gratitude journey? I'd love to hear in the comments below what makes you pause and say "Thanks!"

#Graditude365 Day 19

#Gratitude365 January 6 2014

 I actually got up when my alarm went off this morning, which after a 2 week break of sleeping in is pretty worthy of gratitude... especially since I had to be in class at 9am this morning.

Speaking of class - I had such an amazing interaction and witness to another breakthrough for a family this morning - and I shared it here on the Sign4Baby Blog.

We got the very LAST spot in the preschool down the street from us for Owen. I waited til after winter break to go and pick up a registration packet and my heart almost sank when the administrator behind the desk frowned at me with that telling look that says "we're full."

But, then she thought for a moment and said "Let me check something before I give you the final answer."

For his age group there was ONE spot available so I filled out the registration form and nabbed it up!

We've had Owen out of preschool for the last few months since he had some issues that I won't get into here. We had a goal all along to get him enrolled in a new preschool after the winter break and I am so grateful that there was one remaining spot. I think the schedule is going to be much better for him here and I'm glad it's a lot closer to home and know he is eager to make some new friends. It can be pretty lonely for a 4 year old when your brother and sister go to school every day and you're stuck at home with mom and dad mostly working.

Sometimes I think the stars align just right - but keeping you on the edge of your seat - to make sure you're able to more appreciate what you're about to receive. At least that is what it felt like today when I walked out of that preschool office. Thankful to the stars lining up in this case!

Random, but I was totally happy to have such an easy time at Costco today.

We tend to go to Costco when it is overly busy, with all 3 kids in tow - which can stretch all of our patience to a point that it completely evaporates. Yes, sometimes we are those parents yelling at the kids in the parking lot. I'm not proud of it, but I think being honest is better than putting on a facade. Not today though. I went alone and it was so easy to get in and out of there. If I don't want shopping to be stressful I need to work it into my calendar and go when hardly anyone is there (like on a Monday night!). And get it done without a whole family trip. Scheduling these odds and ends is one of my big confronting challenges. I know it is there and that is the way to make it better, but I'm a horse drawn to water. Just drink the damn water, Joann!

AND one more thing! I have been doing great drinking 8 glasses of water everyday. Something I've been working on and it is happening. I'm trying to think whether I wait til it has been successful for 30 full days before I add in any new health/nutrition goal. What do you think?

#Gratitude365 Day 18

#Gratitude365 January 5th 2014

Sleeping in after a night out. My husband let me sleep until.... eleven a.m. I don't know the last time I slept in that late. That's a little extra birthday gift and one that I apparently needed. Most of the time when I get to sleep in I am up by 9am at the latest. I'm so grateful that my husband kept the kids out of my room so I could sleep in, and that my body let me sleep as long as I did. I don't have the same tolerance of alcohol that I once did so the 3 glasses of wine and 1 cocktail really left me "tired" this morning.

Today the Chargers won their playoff game and that makes my husband happy. It was cute that he left my Charger jersey out on the dresser for me, which I happily wore.

Jerry Coleman, long time Padres announcer, died this afternoon. Incredible gratitude for his service to our country and for delivering so much joy to Padres fans from the broadcasters booth for all those years. My husband used to fall asleep listening to him on the radio. His famous one liner "You can hang a star on that one" will not be forgotten. Truthfully, I'm a sports fan by marriage, but in the case of Jerry Coleman, he was a gem. My children were all curious about why their dad seemed down, tears in his eyes and asked him if someone really died. They don't quite understand the magnitude of death and I took a moment to appreciate that.

Finally, I'm wrapping up 2 weeks of a wonderful break with the kids. Back in early December I planned out my teaching calendar for 2014 After having a full two weeks off with the kids where the thought never crossed my mind "when do they go back to school?" I'm really glad to have built in plenty of time off with them this year. They are growing up so fast and that juggle of work/family balance had become a challenge for me. I know many other moms who run a business experience the same thing. This year I took action on it. Gratitude abounds for having the foresight to do this and the faith to afford the time off.

What are you doing differently this year that you're grateful to yourself for creating the space to do?

#Gratitude365 Day 17 BIRTHDAY POST

#Graditude365 January 4 2014

Oh, where do I start? I had a kickass birthday and I have to tell you all the awesome that I experienced.... and all the awesome I want to experience at my HALF BIRTHDAY ; )

When the social media messages start rolling in wishing you a happy birthday, it feels so wonderful and I begin to think "Wow, if I had this at the halfway point of the year, I wouldn't have any reason to hit that mid-year WALL."


One quick tip: If your partner wakes you in the middle of the night - just go with it - birthday sex is something I am going to say is NOT overrated. Catching you be surprise just after midnight is a great way to start the birthday. Not sure what to get your partner for their bithday? Don't wait til the night of, instead wake them in the middle of the night and surprise them! Live in the moment people! Happy marriages are often made inside the bedroom. I firmly stand by that statement.





I'm watching Coyote Ugly right now and am thinking back to when this movie was first released. At that time I had nowhere near the confidence level to do something crazy like that - and now I have nowhere near the body required for said position and they're opening up downtown soon - in fact I hear on the news auditions are this week. DAMN. But, I'm grateful for now having the confidence that would be required to deal with that kind of population, even if I don't have the bod, because if you can have only one, I'd take the confidence. I knew a handful of people with BOTH - but those are rare - always instill confidence in our girls - they are still lagging far behind the boys and shouldn't wait until they figure it out on their own (like I did) - GIVE THEM EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO BE EQUALLY INDEPENDENT AND FIERCELY CONFIDENT.

I'm grateful for having the audacity to wear the outfit I did tonight even though I've gained nearly 20 pounds over the last two years (weaning after 6 and a half years of breastfeeding is a BITCH). My husband said I reminded him of a "go-go dancer" (that's pretty haute when you've just turned 36 and have been married almost 12 years).

My day actually started off with an amazing massage - and I look forward to making that a part of my regular monthly regiment in 2014 because for as much as I'm on traveling all over San Diego and getting up and down while teaching and on the computer, I NEED IT! Not to mention signing, that takes its toll on body too. The last time I had a massage was my birthday last year - and those chair massages don't count because they are nearly as effective.

Then I went and got a manicure and pedicure. I think it was the beginning of summer the last time I got a mani/pedi and that is just not acceptable. So, I've resolved to make that an every other month habit... at minimum.

We went to Torrey Pines State Reserve to hike a bit and see the ocean. It was simply beautiful. I'd never been. And I've lived in San Diego since I was NINE years old. If you haven't been and see people talk about how awesome it is, do not wait. JUST GO. It is the start of a new year - every single piece of permission that you need to see the ocean and the sky meet in such beauty is before you - a picture of your kids is just frosting on the cake.  Incredible gratitude for my husband knowing that this is something I've wanted to do for a long time and making it happen. There were a few moments that my monkey-like boys got close to the edge of the edge, but my anxiety was temporary and the views will be forever-lasting.

One of my favorite possessions is my Creative Travel Mug and I made sure to bring it with me when I went to get my massage so I could stop by Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and get my favorite white chocolate latte. Grateful for caffeine and the yummy delicious drinks that I consume to give me a little bit of solace in my day. This day especially. I had a chance to enjoy the warmth and sweetness of the beverage in hand and sat in the driveway to finish it before returning to the crazy that can sometimes be my house haha!

Kudos to my husband for ALWAYS wanting to make every single birthday a "day off" for me... if such a thing exists for any mother. He handled every squabble and smiled at me every time I looked at him to take care of something, like put socks on the boys or handle snacks. He really makes this day and Mothers Day just about me and I know not all moms are so lucky. Thank you to my husband for being that guy who recognizes that I need a day to do just what I want to do.

Well, happy birthday to me and may I celebrate many more in order to bring them the special gift that I add to their lives. Yes, I am special and you should realize that YOU are special enough to proclaim the same. If I could figure out a way to fake a second birthday each year I for sure would! We all deserve to have more than 1/365 days in a year to feel like a million bucks. Sending buckets of gratitude to all those who took a minute to send me birthday wishes ; )

When is your birthday? Do you do anything special to celebrate you?

#Gratitude365 Day 16

#Gratitude365 January 3 2014

Three days in a row we've been out to a park/playground and the feeling of fresh air feels so good! Pretty much when the kids ask "What are we going to do today?" and our response is an offer to take them to the park, the kids often poo-poo on the idea. Not today. We bumped into some friends there yesterday and planned to meet them there again today. It was on their mind all the rest of yesterday and all of this morning:

"When are we going to the park?"

"Did we get everything for our picnic?"

"Are we riding our bikes to the park?"

I think we're like most parents, we go through slumps of not getting the kids outside to "just play" and every year it is one of the things I re-visit when contemplating my resolutions or goals. Speaking of goals, I want to make a "family goals" sheet to put up on the refrigerator... something that we've never done before and can keep us all accountable for our follow through (points finger at me!).

Living in southern California we know we pay a sunshine tax, and we take it for granted most of the time how amazing our weather really is. This winter break we've had beautiful blue skies just about everyday and it has been warm enough that shorts are an option. Since I grew up in Minnesota, I absolutely appreciate this gem of a place to live. Some of my local friends have even been posting photos of "beach days" during winter break. That is how fortunate we are.

Today I'm incredibly grateful for fresh air and friends to play with at the park. 

OH, and naps. My husband mentioned he needed a nap and then I suddenly realized how groggy I felt (worn out from the park? my body still fighting this cold? going to bed at 2 a.m. last night?) and he told ME to go ahead and take a nap. A random afternoon nap is such a treat!  When I woke up I could hear the kids asking where I was, he lied and told them I went to the store - cuz otherwise they'd barge into my room to wake me. I didn't have to worry about dinner, he had already made dinner, fed the kids and cleaned up! Man, that was a 4-in-1 delight. Maybe it's because it's my birthday tomorrow. I'll take it! My bucket is full and tomorrow starts a new year around the sun!

When's the last time your partner let you take a nap?

#Gratitude365 Day 15

#Gratitude365 January 2 2013

Do you have moments where you are thinking how blissful things are and then 10 minutes later your kids are fighting with each other in a public place and you look like the crazy mom who can't keep it together? Okay, that happened today. I was using all my patience and didn't dart my eyes around to see if people are really seeing this all unfold before me - instead just stated matter of factly to my 6yo "Yes, I know you are embarrassed, we are ALL embarrassed." I think just stating what IS helped me find my center again. With every passing month of this parenting journey I am indeed learning not to sweat the small stuff - seriously this is huge for me because I'm regularly having it in the back of my mind that my children's behavior is a reflection of my parenting, and I had an epiphany... that the only thing that is a reflection of my parenting is how I BEHAVE when they have their "moments" so to say. That "pause" button sure is easier for me to find as of late. Then an hour later, we're at the park and I capture this photo of them being in a state of bliss again. 

First, I'm grateful that I am having an easier time finding that "pause" button so I can respond rather than react to those situations. Second, I have abundant gratitude for these 3 kids! The 4th kid with the hat is a photo bomb - he's not mine ; ) I know people who want to have children and do not have them and for all the crazy there is plenty of laughter and hugging - so I'm grateful to take the whole package.

I got a call today from the hair salon I went to right before Christmas informing me that I had won a raffle basket with all these amazing Aveda products! Aveda is my brand of choice when it comes to my hair so I was thrilled to win. What was further interesting is that when I arrived at Joelle's hair salon I saw there were a few other baskets from the raffle and they were for various other product brands - how cool is it that I won stuff I already love and will actually use?

This is only day 15 of this 365 day journey and I have to say I feel pretty certain that the conscious effort of being thankful, expressing gratitude, and looking for the good is manifesting itself pretty nicely. 

Anyone else on a gratitude journey or inspired to start? New year, new perspective!

#Gratitude365 Day 14

#Gratitude365 January 1 2014

Whoa. You blink and it's a new year. A high school teacher of mine once explained why it seems that time passes more quickly for us as we get older. When you are 4 years old and you're waiting an entire year for your birthday to circle around again, that is 20 percent of your life, a huge chunk of time to wait. When you're 40, waiting for your birthday to circle around again, a year is just 2.5 percent of your life. It's all relative. Makes sense to me.

I tend to wait until after my birthday (coming up this Saturday) to start to adhere to healthy/exercise new years resolutions - so I'm grateful that I know myself well enough to not put that kind of pressure to skip yummy treats, desserts, drinks or otherwise when celebrating my one special day a year. Even though I have that policy, I did jump in with a renewed commitment to drinking 8 glasses of water a day and starting the day off with hot lemon water before eating/drinking anything else. I got that tip from La Jolla Mom a few weeks ago and have been sticking to it almost every day (one reason I like to start new things a little before the new year is to give me some time to get used to a new habit!) I'm grateful for having found that tip when I did because I've been battling two colds back to back these last two weeks and feel like I haven't been "as sick" as I would have been if I hadn't had all that extra vitamin C. Really, I haven't been congested with either of these two colds so that was a total win.

Scrolling through the photos on my phone I saw Owen, my 4 year old, had taken a selfie, as is totally the norm with kids and iPhones, and it made me smile. There are days where I'm having constant struggles with him about personal space and respecting boundaries, but then I see one of his #lovenotes like this and my heart feels full. He gives hugs out like they are in high demand, he hugs like you're the love of his life, and he kisses me good morning, good night and just because. His middle name should be Joy because he clearly wants to pass joy to everyone around him. Today as I start the new year and still try to figure out "exactly" what my new years resolutions are, I am grateful to be the mom who gets to kiss this face every day.

What little surprises make you smile?

#Gratitude365 Day 13

#Gratitude365 December 31 2013

The year has come to an end and we look forward to the new, a fresh start and a world of possibility.

Every year I hope for a LOT of improvements and dream up big things and while it is not all complete or perfect, I'm left remembering that life really is a constant work in progress, never to be "complete" let alone perfect.

As we went out to enjoy some fresh air at the park while the kids rode their bikes and played, I was filled with gratitude for just being able to breathe in the fresh air, time to sit and do nothing next to my husband on a park bench, for the beautiful San Diego weather and our health.

Contemplating what we are looking forward to does not always mean that we have activly sat back to appreciate what has been. I hope you've taken just a minute to revel in both the big and little accomplishments of this past year.

Some of the things I want to acknowledge and hold space for in 2013:

1. We are here in San Diego, CA rather than Austin, TX. My husband's job was relocated and we were at two opposite ends in what we thought was the best for our family. Lots of patience and talking and I'll admit stress and changing minds on both sides ended up with us staying here. I am so grateful to keep my kids in their same school and neighborhood. Starting my business over in a new city was not a task I was looking forward to, or leaving the strong community of families I've supported here, so I continued to be grateful for their support and referrals, helping my business grow. It ended up that my husband was able to find a position within the company that is a work from home position, and a small pay raise, plus cutting down on the expense of gas. I had MANY conversations with people who knew about this decision that weighted heavily on my mind, and am so grateful for their listening ear and support in bringing a few things to fruition to make the possibility of staying here appear to be the better choice to my husband. MOSTLY my husband sharing that he knew after visiting Austin that he could see us living there but through my eyes that he couldn't see ME living there. I have a partner who is truly a partner. And giving thanks that Blackbaud had that position open up that happened to be a fit! Things always work out the way they are supposed to - I firmly believe that.

2. I hired a story time leader to help with the Sign4Baby Signing Story Time programs. She is animated, she is devoted to early communication for babies and toddlers like I am and she has been a long time champion of what I do. So grateful for you Lea!

3. A project was started, by recording my classes, and will be a project that continues in 2014... starting is the biggest step. Figuring out how to secure the funds to complete the project will come!

4. I got active on Google+ which has been a steep learning curve, and so much fun in the process. One person I want to give a shout out to is Christine DeGraff for her #31Days Project where she featured me. It has truly helped me to connect with more people! I plan to do more on G+ in 2014 and use my voice!

5. I committed to my daughter at the beginning of the school year that we would allocate time for her to have friends over on Fridays afters school and create field trip experiences, which we have done almost every Friday. I can see how much she enjoys having this time to bond with her friends outside of school and will continue to do this in 2014 and beyond.

6. Winning the Red Tricycle Most Awesome Language Classes in So Cal for the 3rd year in a row was a wonderful accomplishment because I didn't promote the contest the the extent that I had the first two years, showing me that my audience has grown and that audience is very appreciative of what I do for them. AND I was ecstatic to be listed with some of So Cal's Coolest Power Moms!

7. I had a couple of successful social media projects for other businesses this year that I expect to expand next year. Grateful to Natural Baby Pros, The Center for a Healthy Lifestyle and Kids for Peace for giving me an opportunity to help get your messages out into the world through social media.

8. This year I had my first ever $1,000+ invoice with repeat business resulting in my first ever $4,000+ invoice. AND they've already contracted me for repeat work in 2014. Seriously, repeat business is the best!

9. I've had the pleasure of building upon existing sponsor relationships and adding new ones and excited for what is to come in 2014 with our sponsors! Partnering with brands that I truly believe in is a very good feeling because I'm able to use my platform to further educate families I serve about their choices of products and resources for their growing families.

10. This year we had the annual Sign4Baby Birthday party and the 2nd annual Signing Mrs Claus event - which I look forward to continuing in 2014 - even adding in another big Spring event!

11. It may not be a big feat for others to stop and acknowledge but for me it was a personal commitment that I was proud to keep to myself, that was taking time for 2 facials a month and I will be continuing that going forward. I'm lucky to have connected with Firefly Wellness who I see as my skincare coach! In 2014 I'm adding a monthly mani/pedi to the self care regiment!

12. Another moment that I just enjoyed so much was seeing the kids choose to all be Star Wars characters for Halloween! It was the first time they have ever done a theme and it was their idea and I just LOVE the picture of the three of them.

13. I was part of a mastermind group this year. It was a challenge to make the meetings all work and despite having to move some of my own personal calendar items and work on my own challenges of commitment, I managed to make it to every single meeting. I'm looking forward to continuing working with these women again in 2014.

14. We bought more organic foods than we ever have - especially grateful to Costco for making this an easier option! I get excited whenever I see a brand new organic produce option or healthy super food offered in their store because I believe the more organic options that reach the masses, the more people will buy them and the healthier we will all be.

15. I switched to the Diva Cup this year. TMI for some people, but honestly another way to reduce my carbon footprint and proud of that.

16. We added Sparkletts water delivery to our home. We were not making time with the Brita water pitcher to be full enough before leaving the house to fill everyone's personal water bottle and often times the personal water bottles were missing or not clean so we were stopping at convenience stores to buy water bottles and that's not helping our earth. SO, while we tried the best option, we realized we were not committed enough and found another way we could work on reducing our use of plastics.

17. We kept up on our date nights - averaging one per month. Sometimes we'd go a stretch of 2 or 3 months between and boy we would recognize when it was time for us to get some alone time together. I started this commitment to my husband about 4 years ago and it has been a huge factor in the happiness in our marriage. My favorite date night was one where we had a private chartered yacht tour via Details Matter App and Zolna Yacht Tours with an amazing sunset and view of downtown San Diego from the bay. Every year we have been better about making time for our #datenight and I always appreciate the special couple time!

Now it's your turn. What did you want to recognize as an accomplishment in 2013??

#Gratitude365 Day 12

#Gratitude365 December 30 2013

Have you ever misplaced something and then found it - like a long time later and were so happy to have found it? That happened.

Amberly's big Santa gift in 2012 was her Easy Bake Oven and she was super excited about it because she had thought long and hard about what to ask Santa for for Christmas.

But we never got to use it because we couldn't find the cupcake or cake pan. I thought it had wound up in the trash by mistake in the hustle of cleaning up wrapping paper and boxes... and we never got committed to going to Toys R Us to see about buying a replacement part. Total #momfail.

Anyway, in cleaning up stuff in our spare room from wrapping presents this year I saw one of the cake boxes for her Easy Bake Oven and picked it up - it was open - so I looked inside. What did I discover? The damn missing cake pans! I showed Amberly and my husband and called it a #ChristmasMiracle.

Gratitude for finding something that you thought was lost and now is found. Something small and simple. We had talked about it perhaps a dozen times and I have a feeling that with Amberly's consistency in putting it out in the universe by asking me when we would use her Easy Bake Oven and buy the replacement parts is what led to it being found. Visualization from an 8 year old works too!

So, we made cupcakes in her Easy Bake Oven! They were delicious not so much in the taste, but more in the experience being realized.

After a full day focused on cleaning out her closet and her help in organizing the playroom after an overflow of Christmas toys - this was a real treat to get do one of her two favorite things = bake! Next time I need to get a live action shot of the baking - perfect reason for us to get to do it again during winter break though ; )

Has anything like that happened to you or your kids?