Gratitude Journaling

Like everyone, Gregory sometimes gets all wrapped up in what he doesn't have (not that he has a deficit of Lego's... though I'm sure it's impossible to have "too many"). While it may not be unique, it can be wearing on the parents.

Fred had this great idea: he got Gregory a spiral-bound notebook to be his gratitude journal.

Fred has a matching one. Every night, right before bed, they each write down 10 things they're grateful for. It's so fun having a child who can write (at least phonetically)!

(labeling Popsicle sticks for the garden)

This is a video of Gregory showing me his latest entry. He usually finishes writing before Fred, so he illustrates. This will be so special in years down the road! Despite the trouble he can be, he is such a wonderful boy- I feel so privileged to be his mama!



(not sure what was up with the camera's coloring..?)

Giggle-Bug

Ever had one of those days where no matter how hard you try, you just can't get yourself moving?? Today was definitely one of those days!

By lunchtime I had tried several times to get motivated to clean up the kitchen, living room and other various parts of my house, but I felt like I was stuck in one of those dreams where you're trying so hard to run but are stuck in slow motion.

In exasperation I mimed wading through mud and starting wailing about how I felt like I was trudging through molasses... a truly pathetic sight, I'm sure. Then I caught up short when a delighted giggle came from the high chair.

In my dramatic pity party I'd forgotten that Kai was a little captive audience, treed in his high chair with bits of pancake and Cheerios. He was giggling hysterically. That got me going- I had a huge laugh over how ridiculous I'd been, and that my not-quite-yet one-year old son could laugh at me.

Within the hour my kitchen was immaculate (it's a wreck again since dinner, but for 1 blissful hour it sparkled). Gotta love those tender mercies from the Lord. Today mine came in the form of my little giggle-bug... such a classic example illustrating his cheery personality.


Here's a recent video of Kai doing his happy dance. He jerks his whole little body all over the place. He was a bit burned out by the time I go the camera rolling, but if he doesn't make you laugh, listening to me trying to motivate him probably will.

One more of him. He loves making that thing bounce with all his might