Things I learned without using the internet (shocking I know!)

My week away from the internet was...nice. I struggled at times, proving how deep my addiction, and I confess I even got on really fast on Monday morning. All in all though it was really good. It gave me some time to get some things done around the house and to spend some great time with the boys.

I realized a couple of things as a result of the break. First, I enjoy goofing off on the internet - searching for new recipes, reading the news, facebooking (can you make a verb out of that?) and just seeing what else I can find. However I am easily distracted and suddenly 2 hours has gone past and I've just wasted it. Second I need my rest. The biggest difference in my week was that I actually had time to take a nap. So often I sit down to just check my email "real quick" and then I'll take a nap. As I already mentioned, suddenly 2 hours has gone past and there is no way I'll be able to take a nap without piles of guilt washing over me! That extra rest I was able to get was so good for my attitude. I was a better wife and a better mother. At least I felt like one. Third, spending time with God is a priority and if I get on the internet I usually totally forget my priorities (there are just too many good recipes on allrecipes.com!). I was and am able to have a focused quiet time when I keep the internet out of my life. And that time with the Lord is really what makes me the best wife and mother I can possibly be.

So, what does all that mean? Well, I have decided I will kinda schedule time for the internet. Hopefully time when other people are home, then I am less focused on the darn thing. The plan for now is no computer time until after lunch (uh, except today :-S) and then only on certain days - say Monday, Thursday and the weekends? Its kinda a work in process, but I am really excited to keep myself in check. Its a good thing as Martha Stewart would say :-)

Well that's the deal, the plan, the whole shebang just so you know. If you're thinking there is something in your life that you're a little "addicted" too, I highly recommend taking a break. Its a great way to learn important things, not to mention an excellent topic for blogging!

I'll leave you with a couple pictures of the boys from the last week. They are growing up TOO fast!

Benson loves his Bert.

Josiah helping Daddy mow the lawn. Doesn't he look all grown up?!

And Now It's Time For...

--Something new, what do you think of the new background? Just thought I needed a bit of an update.

--A little break. Lately I've been struggling to get things done, chores, quiet time, life. I realized this morning it has a lot to do with this device I am sitting in front of, and specifically the internet. It is bordering on an obsession for me. So, it is time for a break. Right now I am thinking a week. After that I'll probably have to take some time and be super disciplined, even set a timer so I don't spend too much time on this thing. Then, who knows. We'll see how things go. I'll be sure to let you know how it went when its over.

--Enjoy the new background, see you in a week :-)

The Orchid

On the window sill in the dinning room there sits an orchid. My mother-in-law left if for me to care for while she is overseas for the year. It had a few blooms on it when she left and has bloomed another time since she's been gone. Now as we await their arrival, just a few weeks from now, it is in full bloom yet again. It is absolutely magnificent. I am in awe of a God who has created such a delicate, intricate and beautiful flower. Isn't He good?!

Birthday Catch Up

Joey gave me a Birth-week this year instead of a Birthday. It was so much fun. The first day he watched the boys while I got a pedicure and then he took me to the mall and bought me a two new shirts. Then on Tuesday he took me to the Seattle Art Museum and we got to look at a exibit showcasing some impressionist painters. It was really great. On Wednesday my actual birthday I went out on the town with some close friends and we had a GREAT time laughing, eating good food and enjoying yummy drinks. My favorite drink was a "Jade Martini" I don't know if they have it anywhere else, but it was lovely! Thursday there was a BBQ at our house, it was a lot of fun to have more friends over, play some volleyball and stuff our faces with hamburgers! Friday we left to go camping in eastern/central Washington. All in all it was an EXCELLENT birthday. I am so blessed by my great hubby. I have to tell you though one of my favorite parts was the little notes he left me each morning to tell me what the day held. What can I say I am a sucker for love notes :-) Here are just a few pictures of the week. Better late than never :-)

Here I am opening the Wii that Joey got me for my birthday. It has been a fun addition to the house!

Yep, I'm officially 30!

Sitting with the boys (l-r Thomas, Josiah and James)

Benson on our camping trip, he had loads of fun.

Josiah loved playing in the water where we were camping. It was a great trip.