THANKFUL

Confession time: I did not partake in the daily Facebook thankful list during the month of November. However, I am exceedingly thankful for so many things. So here you go, fashionably late, my list of thankfuls for November: 

1. my family, albeit currently incomplete
2. the fact that my car is still running..in spite of the odds and many many miles I've put on it
3. friends who understand my heart and get where I'm coming from on a regular basis
4. the fact that our adoption is officially half  funded
5. working for Noonday Collection and knowing that my work is making the world a better place for someone else
6. the amazing adoption community that I never realized existed and am now blessed by every single day
7. good books that come around at perfect times
8. hot tea
9. road trips to see old friends
10. more experienced, wiser women who spend time investing in little ole me
11. Libby's love for music and her keyboard...and the headphones that go with it
12. 'Parenthood' reruns
13. slippers
14. blogs that inspire
15. pictures of my kiddos
16. little moments that makes big memories
17. gifts that give back
18. nights when bedtime is easy
19. hand-me-downs for my littles
20. snuggling on the couch
21. dancing in the kitchen
22. candy....all the candy
23. good music that makes me smile
24. laughing until I cry
25. living close enough to my grandmother that I can see her often
26. an automatic setting on my camera that allows me to capture one or two decent shots of our family...out of the two hundred or so that we took
27. friends who share my take on motherhood
28. all things pumpkin
29. Christmas movies playing on repeat for the next twenty-three or so days at mi casa
30. Hollyn's made up cheers that she does randomly all throughout each and every day

Here's hoping your Thanksgiving was superb and that you have much to be thankful for. Care to share one of the little things in life that you are most thankful for? I'd love to hear it! 

5 Thanks: March

March was one awe-some month. Busy, but wonderful.

Choosing only five thanks this month was not an east task. However, I'm a girl who like a challenge, so here you go:

1. CREATED FOR CARE

Created for Care was exactly what I needed. It was a great time with some great people, including Andrea, the lady behind the fantasticness known as C4C. Thank you, Andrea, for all of your hard work. I was so blessed through your selfless actions and service towards me and the 450 other ladies who enjoyed spending the weekend with you.

2. SPRING BREAK

Spring break this year provided the perfect stay-cation opportunity for our family. Good times, good friends, and good memories abounded.

3. LIBBY'S SCHOOL PLAY

Pretty sure there's nothing my daughter loves me than being in the spotlight, and this year's school play did not disappoint. So, so proud to be her mom.

#4: 7

This book was exactly what I needed this month, making a perfect pre-Easter read. If you haven't already purchased your copy, would you mind telling me exactly what it is you're waiting for????

#5: ALMOST 40 WEEKS OF PREGNANT

If you're been around here for a while, then you're heard me talk time and time again about my oldest friend, Heather. A few years ago, she was pregnant with triplets and delivered at 24.5 weeks. Well, I am happy to report that she's carrying baby #4 and is almost in the home-stretch of this pregnancy. So very thankful; God is so good. You can follow her story here.

Here's hoping April gives March a run for its money in the goodness department.
And do tell-- what were YOU thankful for last month?

Today I'm linking here. See you there?

5 Thanks: January

I'm truly ashamed. It's been far too long since I've posted a five thanks post....how terribly ungrateful of me. In case you've joined me since my last one, here's my original post where I explained how there's ALWAYS something to be thankful for, even if it's something small, simple, and sweet.

That being said, new year-- new start. And, for the record, I love how these items all fit well into my word for the year.

Without further adieu, here are five of the simple things I was thankful for last month:

1. rekindling my love for reading

After teaching reading all day long, sometimes the last thing I want to do when I get home is read some more. But then I do it, and I'm always so glad I did. I read three books last month, all of which were on my list of books to read this year. I'm guessing that puts me ahead in this game?

Anywho, I've especially enjoyed these...I'll be finishing the second one, Crossed, just as soon as I finish this post.

 

2. something shiny

Last month, the hubby and I bought a new oven.

Who knew an oven could ever be so shiny?

3. birthdays

Hollyn and I both celebrated birthdays last month, and I'm still smiling over the simplicity and perfection that was Hollyn's second birthday party. And seriously, this little girl is so beautiful in so many ways that it makes my heart swell with pride and adoration. Clearly God does not give us what we deserve when it comes to our children, because there is no way I've done anything worthy of being her mother.

4. this friend

This is my friend, Courtney.

And in the past month or so, her world has been rocked in more ways than one. Yet, after moving and losing her mother within one week's time, she continues to be an amazing example of what it looks like to live and shine for God. She is truly relying on Him to comfort her, bring her peace, and guide her during this difficult time. And I could not be more thankful for the example she has set or the reminder she has been to me that God IS in control, and His plans, though we may not always understand them, are ALWAYS what is best.

5. Prison Break  and Parenthood marathons

Although I did resolve not to watch more than I read this year, I did a lot of watching in January. However, the entertainment that is Prison Break can't be beat.......

And Parenthood has truly challenged me as a wife and a mother.

I'm hoping that cancels out the many hours I've spent making the most of my Netflix subscription.....

And now I have to ask--- what were YOU thankful for last month?

And what are you looking forward to this month?

I happen to L-O-V-E Valentine's Day, specifically in terms of my kiddos, so I can't wait for next week.

Here's hoping your Wednesday is filled to the tip top with things to be thankful for, and be sure to come back tomorrow; there's a giveaway a comin'.

Five Thanks: March

1. Our Africa Shirts

Seriously, I have been so very blessed by the support I've received some friends, family, and strangers in my little attempt to make a difference.

And speaking of Africa shirts, if you still haven't sent me a pic. of you in yours, it's not too late. Just try to get it to me by Sunday night, mkay?

2. Peppermint Tea

So, it's a far stretch from Starbucks, but I'm seriously loving peppermint tea. It doesn't take much to make my day lately, but this stuff is ugh-may-zing.

3. My Kiddos Increased Awareness

Although this wasn't my intention or driving force, can I just say that I am loving how my increased awareness for Africa has brought about an increased awareness for Africa in my child? I have truly loved watching her little heart grow for others and their needs.

4. My Snuggle Buddy

We seriously couldn't have gotten a dog at a better time. We brought him home eleven days before I hurt my back, and he has been the best nurse I could imagine. We literally spend about twenty-two hours a day together. Wow.

5. My Friends

I am so fortunate to have such good friends. To everyone who has checked in on me, prayed for me, and asked about my back, thank you. I am truly grateful.

Here's hoping your March gave you much to be thankful for as well.

Oh, and before you go,

here's a quick reminder about Kristen.

She still need about $350 or so to complete her fundraising for her mission trip to Africa. If you haven't helped already or if you've already helped and want to do more, it's certainly not too late.

She still have several bracelets available. They're $5 each, and you can purchase them through the paypal button on my sidebar.

The best part?

She'll stick one in the mail to you within twenty-four hours, and they're a great way to help spread awareness.

And let's don't forget that all the cool kids are doin' it.

And don't you want to be cool?

Happy Friday to you and you and you.

Five Thanks: February

Before we begin, let me remind you that TODAY is the last day to place your Africa shirt order and to enter THIS GIVEAWAY to commit to pray for Kristen and her team...one of you will win a free t-shirt tonight!

This is exciting stuff, agree?

Moving on....

To be totally honest, February was hard. My back hurt every.single.day. last month. And it's getting old.

Enough already.

However, there are ALWAYS things to be thankful for, even in spite of the fact that I've now been sleeping on the couch for six very long weeks.

Here are a few of the highlights from last month:

1. THANK YOU, MOTHER NATURE

I realize it's not officially spring yet, but I sure have enjoyed this weather lately. It's been heavenly and done wonders for my soul, especially when I'm out walking Doc in the wee hours of the morn'.

2. MY SILLY KIDDO

Nuff' said.

3. MY LITTLE HELPER

Hollyn, while Mommy truly appreciates you wanting to help her blog, she's not so sure her readers will understand what you mean when you say:

iaofui awue90r]bn792a5078q2398upa9wojsdf;ljksld; ivfmawopbe9tna0wt.

4. THE HELP

Seriously, this book has resonated with me. It's been several days since I finished reading it, and I'm STILL thinking about it. Do us both a favor and pick up a copy, k?

5. LIBBY'S NEW BFF

See this lotion?

We now own stock in it...or at least it feels like we own stock in it;

we use on Libby FIVE TIMES A DAY.

And it's helping her skin...at least for now.

So, if only for this moment, I am so very thankful for it-- anything that will help is welcome in our house.

And, in your 'free time' today, I'm thinking you should read more about her skin and about The Help by checking out this weeks' linky party post. I'd love for you to join because, let's admit it, life would be better if we were neighbors.

You know this is true.

And now, I'd love to know:

WHAT WERE YOU THANKFUL FOR LAST MONTH??????

Five Thanks: January

First of all, my apologies for this post being so late.

Enjoy it just the same?

Thanks.

1. Birthdays Galore

I seriously think my 31st may have been my best birthday to date. And then, to top it off, two days before I turned the big 3-1, this little one celebrated her first year. And I could not possibly be more thankful for this little life I love so. Oh, and that first birthday party = a total success if I do say so myself...which I do.

2. Working On My List

If you do recall, I recently wrote my list of thirty things I want to accomplish while I'm in my thirties. Well, look out number 9, cause I've got my eye on you.

That's right; despite the back drama I am working on learning how to actually play my guitar.

And this time, I've enlisted reinforcements.

Bloggers, you might remember Rachel.

Well, not only does she make me laugh on a regular basis and love my babies big time, but she also has madd skills, yo.

Check this out:

Pretty amazing, si?

You might recognize it from here.

Guitar lessons, here I come.

3. The First Born

Although my oldest can best be described as exhausting, I am so in love with the fact that she is totally comfortable with who she is, that she can own any room at any time, and that she was born to entertain. Now if we can only teach her to stay seated during dinner and not paint her mirror with chap stick, all will be right with the world.

4. The Dog Child

Plain and simple, I love this dog. I can't believe we've only had him for a little over a month. He has blended right into our crazy household and is the best snuggle buddy I've ever known.

The hubby will have a hard time topping this birthday present.

5. Tasty Treats of the New Variety

Just a few things I've been lovin' the heck out of lately.

January, you rocked.

Snow? Check.

Birthday celebrations? Check.

A month to remember? Check.

Oh, and if you haven't told me what we'd talk about if we were neighbors, no worries.

The party is still going strong.

So why don't you get to work on your post?

All the cool kids are doin' it.

5 Thanks: December

December was a great, albeit super long, month. And despite the fact that at times a certain six-year-old who shall not be named almost pushed me to my breaking point on several occasions, it was a great month....and a busy month. One that included traveling, celebrating, and eating galore. And for that, I am very thankful. Here are five of the many things I have to be grateful this month:

1. Taming the Beast

Oh, you just don't know the joy in my soul now that the hair is gone. Donating is truly a gift of love for me because it means I have to live with at least three months of hair that I simply cannot fix. And being able to jump out of the shower, blow dry it in less than five minutes, and straighten it in less than ten is TRULY something to be thankful for this December.

2. The Bestie

This month brought not one but TWO adventurous night with my best friend. One of which happened just last week when I spent the night with her before she moved. While I'm sad that she's now over four aways instead of one, I am very thankful for our fun night spent with no cable and no Internet--- only us, her giant dog, and her neighbor, who likes to hammer at all hours of the night.

3. She Walks

I could not be more thankful for this little girl. This month included not only her first Christmas but her first steps as well. And will someone please tell me how it's possible that she'll be one this week? Seriously-- where did last year GO?

4. Our Adventure

In case you missed that post what with all the New Year-ing, the fam and I took a trip this week to check out the new Mississippi Children's Museum. It was a great day, the kind that doesn't happen often, and for that I am truly grateful.

5. Grow, Blog, Grow

I could not be more thankful for the way that this little blog o'mine has grown lately. In December, I hit the 200 followers mark. While I realize this isn't all that grand in the big scheme of life, it kinda sorta made my day...ok, I'll be honest-- it made my week.

And I'd promised myself that I'd try to take it to the next level when that happened. So, in an attempt to take it to the next level, I'm hosting my first linky party and offering a super cool giveaway. You should join the party and link too and enter my giveaway, which I'm hoping will help someone with a new blog get her feet wet, but established blogs are more than welcome to enter too; I'm not picky.

Speaking of giveaways, I ALSO have this giveaway from Always Elyse going on this week.

That's probably because this week is gonna be monumental at our house.

For you see, this is the week that H turns one and I turn thirty-one.

This means lots of super fun, and possibly even funny, posts for you.

Are excited?
That makes two of us.

5 Thanks: October

October has been a great month at our house. God is doing great things and continues to provide for us. Isn't He just amazing?

Here are just five of the many things I'm thankful for this month:

1. My Own Personal Prayer Warriors

I don't know about you, but I believe in the power of prayer.

And I am so beyond thankful for what I consider to be my own personal prayer warriors.

 I hope and pray that each of you has someone in your life who you know will

pray for you and all of your needs.

2. Praying for Africa

Lately one thing has been on my mind: Africa, specifically Ethiopia. And we've been praying hard for the many people there who are struggling and fighting just to survive.
Well, Libby came to me the other morning very upset because she's forgotten to include Africa in her bedtime prayers. So, when she gets home from school today, she's going to find this by her bed:

Hopefully it will serve as her own personal prayer reminder. :)

3. Libby's Old Testament Learning Tool

Although my oldest can be a handful sometimes, I love her heart and her desire to learn and serve others. It's truly one of my favorite things about her. And this past week she has been determined to memorize all the books of the Old Testament. So, to help her learn, I pulled out one of my old dorm-life tricks, and wrote the names of the books on her mirror in her closet.

 

**Please excuse the terrible quality of this picture. Taking pics. in the Libster's room is like trying to take pics. in the bat cave.**

4. It's Almost Time

...to donate my hair! This will be my third time to donate my hair for breast cancer, and although I'd hoped to do it this month, it's just not quite time yet. However, ONE MORE MONTH should take care of it. I've reached the point where I'm so ready to cut it that I could just scream, so please pray I can dig some patience up from somewhere and make it another month.

Here are some pics. from the last time I donated:

That's Erin, in case you're new around here. She'll be donating with me again this year. She's one of my former students, and I LOVE THIS KID.

5. Blogging

Although it might sound silly, I am so thankful for blogging.

It has opened my eyes to so many new things, not only in a crafty sense, but in a mom and better person sense as well. I've been so inspired by so many stories out there from people with whom my path may never have crossed if it weren't for blogging.

Oh, to think of all the friends I could have if we could ever all be in the same place at the same time.

And, you know I'm gonna ask....

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR THIS MONTH?????

Maybe, just maybe you're thankful for the chance to win cute stuff here at Lee, Me, and the Girls???

Well, you can't win if you don't enter. So how about entering my two giveaways? One ends tomorrow and one ends Thursday, so you'd better hop to it if you haven't already. 

And here's hoping your October was as blessed as mine.

5 thanks- September and MY FIRST GIVEAWAY!

I'm not gonna lie-- September 2010 has not been the most fun month of my entire adult life. However, it has definitely had some high points.

Here are just a few:

1. My Bible Study

I love, love, love Beth Moore Bible studies. If you've never participated in one, I highly, highly recommend them. And if you can't find one to participate in, her books are fabulous as well. My personal favorite is Believing God. I learned so much about the difference in believing God exists and believing He truly is who He says He is through doing that study.

 Anyway, I am thrilled to be participating in a study of one of her newer books-- Here and Now..Then and There, where we are working our way through the book of Revelation. Beth just words things and relates things in such a way that I can't help but admire and respect her. God has truly given her a gift, and I am so thankful to get to wallow around in it for a few hours every week.

2. The Hunger Games Trilogy

I honestly believe that my earliest passion in  life was reserved for reading. I literally used to get in trouble for staying up late to finish just one more chapter. I guess you can say I've been a nerd for a long, long time, and I don't think even one person was surprised when I became an English teacher.

Literature is in my blood.

And while I enjoy dissecting good books in the classroom, I also enjoy immersing myself in a good book at home. Unfortunately it's not often I come across something I truly can't get enough of, which is why I'm so glad I found this set of books. They are truly entertaining and have really made me sit back and think of all the luxuries in my life and how many things I take for granted. I read the first two last weekend and am plowing through the third like a freight train. They are fabulous. You should give them a looksie.

#3. The Libster's Party

In case you missed the party posts, you can find them featured here and here.

I am so very thankful that her party a success. No drama. No tears. Happy guests. And a VERY happy birthday girl. What's not to be thankful for?

#4- My College Visit

In case I haven't mentioned 2.5 billion times already, I am so thankful for my alma mater. And this month I got a much-needed visit with some of my very favorite people, both new and old.  Although I would return to my college days is one minute flat (without any hesitation, arms stretched wide, and running as fast as my short little legs could possibly carry me), the visits sure do help with the withdrawals.....at least momentarily.

#5- This Precious Baby



I am so beyond thankful for the opportunity to stay home with my little one. She is, most definitely, the baby God hand-picked just for me, and I could not possibly love her more. I also happen to love making things for her, because let's face it, a girl, no matter what age, can never have too many accessories. So, with some inspiration from here, I made this little headband for her. And I'd like to make one for one of you as well.

Wouldn't this just be adorable on your little one for Halloween?

Because it's on a large elastic band, it will fit a newborn all the way up to....well... I guess anyone who wants to wear it.

To win it, all you have to do is become a follower (or remind me that you already are one) and leave me a comment below telling me one thing YOU are thankful for this month.

I'll have Libby choose a winner (at random, of course) on Friday, October 8th.

I can't wait to hear from YOU!