Today...

You know those days where you go to bed wondering what in the world did I even accomplish today?! Lately, I feel like I've really let some of my resolves to create good habits that would become just a natural part of my daily routine go. So much for New Year's resolutions, right? I mean, I've sat down to write a new blog post twenty times but just don't feel up to writing and skip it. Sad. There are so many things that I felt excited about trying to accomplish this new year: journaling/blogging, consistent personal scripture study, fun sewing projects, weekly (organized) FHE, exercise, at-home schooling, etc. But each day, that motivation and drive get lost somewhere. Lying in bed this morning, listening to the banging of a crib against my bedroom wall and the pitter-patter of running feet downstairs, I gave myself the worn out pep talk of how I was going to get up, get dressed, get breakfast for you and kids, WORK-OUT, and start the day productively. I mean, why is this so hard?? Just get up and do it!! The rest of the day will go much more smoothly and tonight, you won't feel like nothing was accomplished. So I did it. I even had my morning devotional with the kids and they stayed fairly clean after a breakfast of "soft" oatmeal. But as the morning went on, those little explanations of why this is so hard randomly popped up in my mind. As little fingers poked at my eyes and nose while I tried to find "peace and inner-connection" while doing yoga with two little exercise companions sprawled within two feet of me. While trying to convince an obstinate child with a cough and runny nose that playing in the frigid basement in just a bathing suit and fairy wings is not okay. When sneaking into the bathroom while the girls were distracted to take a shower only to start the water and find they were behind me half undressed to get in too. As unusual waves of exhaustion or hormonal emotions from pregnancy test my actions and thoughts. When what used to be days and nights of not-much-to-do get filled with activities, assignments and obligations that add extra busy-ness to our lives. It seems so easy for me to make excuses as to why I don't feel like I'm truly progressing as of late. But at the same time, I have to recognize so many of the hard to see blessings that have pushed me forward, though unknowingly. Regular dates with hubby thanks to friends willing to take in our brood. Seeing my children grow in relationships with new friends and each other. Though I have not been having as much personal scripture study as I should, we have family scripture study every night and morning. My household may not be up to par according to my wishful standards, but it's not a condemned disaster and it keeps us warm and comfortable. We don't have lots of new, nice things but we have been saving money even on our med school budget. We have been healthy this winter. We have a new addition to our family on the way who seems healthy and hasn't made my life too uncomfortable...yet. I've had Christopher home a lot lately and enjoy spending down time with him. We had a great Valentine's day with the kids and each other. I'd say one of the best in a while. Countless moments of smiles, laughter, hugs and kisses.
Prayers have been answered, blessings have been given. I just need to work a little harder. Starting today.

And just a few random pictures we've taken recently...recharged camera batteries hopefully mean more pictures to come.

We're thinkin'...

PINK!

Yep, we're adding a bit more sugar and spice to our little family mix!

Now we just need a name....