The Magnolia Story

I just finished this book and I loved it. The book reads like a comfortable conversation with friends. The Gaines' faith in God is inspiring and I was so impressed at not only how faithful they were when they needed help but how diligent they are and how quick they are to recognize his hand in all things. I love, love, love their work ethic as business people, as a couple and as parents.  It was great read for me as I prepare to take on 2017.  I had already decided I want work to play a bigger role in my life and my family's and this has definitely been a push in the right direction.

I love finding couples (and individuals) who make me want to be better.  I felt better just being around them in their book.  They don't shy away from the bad stuff but are able to look at it without despair and negativity.  How they work together as a couple = life goals. :)

Definitely a book I will reread in the future.  (I actually ended up pulling out a highlighter because I kept finding little gems that I want to incorporate in my own home.)

January Blahs

I'm not typically one to have a lot of the January blahs, but this year I have.  I think I've been spoiled the last couple of years with a pleasant, mild winter.  This year seems colder and wetter.

I really enjoyed our Christmas break.  It was so fun to have all the kids to myself.  No dance, basketball or a million other things demanding our time and attention. But like all good things, Monday came way too soon. :P

Yesterday I was feeling a bit sorry for myself if I'm being honest. ;)  Chloe and I stopped at the grocery store to pick up a few things we needed for dinner and I splurged.  I bought a package of big, bright red, sweet smelling strawberries.  And I didn't just get the measly one pound package.  No way, Jose. I bought the big kahuna.  Two pounds of beautiful (and delicious!) berries.

Let me tell you.  It was worth every out-of-season penny I spent.  I hid them, too.  I didn't want my kids to know I had them.  They've been happy.  They were still smiling and laughing when they came home from school.  They didn't need them.  These berries were for me!

I did come to my senses and have shared them.  And they taste sweeter for it.  Plus my kids know me well now and ask before they eat them.  Haha.

But seriously.  Worth the splurge to feel a little springiness in the dead of winter.  The berries, combined with some unexpected sunshine have chased away the January blues and left hope and excitement for the new year.