Perfection.  It’s a crazy, unattainable goal, isn’t it?  Sadly, I still fall into the trap. Sometimes social media can be exhausting, maintaining this front that we live a picture perfect life.  But is it worth it?  What is gained if we appear to have it all together, but struggle in silence?


I hope that when you visit this blog, you see an honest representation of my life.  Sure, I tend to take pictures and blog about the “prettier” parts, but I hope you never come away feeling less.  I don’t have it all together and never will.  But that’s okay!     


So in the spirit of celebrating, here are a few examples of my wildly imperfect life:

• I currently have a king sized quilt draped across the banister of our stairs since it will not dry in the dryer!  It looks ridiculous, but where else am I going to put it to air dry?
• I wear my hair in a top knot almost every day of the week during the summer.
• See that picture above?  When I painted our chalkboard wall, I miscalculated how much to paint.  When we attached the framing, I was left with a bare strip across the bottom.  It drives me crazy and I keep meaning to touch it up, but it’s been months!
• I am a horrible meal planner.
• My boys are best friends, but can fight like animals.  Some days, I feel like all I do is discipline and referee. 
• I won’t have a William Morris Project post up this week because both of my ideas were busts.
• I should be doing dishes, but instead, I’m blogging.

P.S. Don’t forget to enter the giveaway for a $15 credit towards Usborne books!  Help support a mamma with me!

It’s been awhile since we talked, like really talked.  So pretend you’re sitting at my dining room table with a big cup of coffee and let’s catch up.

Well first, I’ll run you up to my closet to show you the new clothes I got from a new website I found.  The site is called Twice and they sell gently used, like new name-brand clothes for cheap!  I bought a few things for fall and am so pleased with everything.  I definitely recommend.

My boys will inevitably find us and claim that they are soooo hungry (aren’t they always?!), so we’ll head downstairs to feed the crew.  I just bought another Paleo cookbook called Against All Grain: Delectable Paleo Recipes to Eat Well & Feel Great and I can’t wait to try a few new recipes.  Although if I’m being honest, all of the new flours and ingredients are quite intimidating to me!  

With the kids busy, we can finally sit.  And enough with the silly things.  Let’s talk about important heart matters.  Without saying too much, I’ve had a hard few months in my marriage.  I’ve always been told that marriage ebbs and flows, that there are periods of highs and periods of lows.  And here at almost eight years, we hit our first low.  Thankfully, I do believe we are finally on the upswing of things.  I share this with you to not only ask for your prayers, but also to say that marriage is worth it.  It is the hardest thing I have ever done, but also the most worthwhile.  I really recommend this blog post from Jami Nato on forgiveness: “The Most Expensive Gift I Ever Gave.”  Our stories are not the same, but I found great comfort in reading her words.  


One of the parts I’ve been praying on: “…and so when we forgive, we mirror Christ’s forgiveness. We pay the tab. We stop making our spouse pick up the check. We say, no more. You can’t pay enough for this. This is the Gospel lived out in a tangible way. You recognize the darkness of your own heart and see the need for Jesus to save you. And that gift that God gave you, you give to others because you are just as terrible. And I’m not going to lie, it is difficult and hard and grievous to walk these steps in front of you. But you can because Jesus did.”  Forgiveness is a lesson we can apply to all of our lives, no?


Thanks for listening.  How are YOU?  What’s new in your world? 

From the Kitchen
Our diet has changed pretty dramatically around here!  My husband eats almost 100% Paleo now and I would say I eat about 80/20.  The changes have been amazing: steady weight loss, better sleep, and more energy.  This week, I plan on experimenting with a few recipes in Practical Paleo, including Blueberry Muffins using coconut flour.  

Fitness
I am doing a mix of running and the Pop Pilates for Beginners Calendar.  I am also participating in the #55milesinaugust challenge over on Instagram.  I work best when I have a goal in sight!  Also coming up: a 4 miler in September and a 10K if I can find one nearby.


Reading
My two current reads: The School of Essential Ingredients and Runner’s World Complete Book of Women’s Running.

Penpal Circles
Sixty (Update: over 70!) amazing women from 35 states and three countries are participating in the Penpal Circles and I couldn’t be more excited!  Welcome packets are being created and I hope to get them out to you by week’s end.  In the meantime, pick out your favorite stationary and get ready to write some snail mail 🙂


On the Blog
After months and months of writer’s block (blogger’s block?), I’m back and have lots to share.  An update on my journey to health is long overdue as well as a post on Whole30 and what works for us.  (I’ve gotten lots of questions on Instagram that I need to answer!)  I have a new series in the works about making our house feel more like home.  And of course, lots of everyday ramblings about living with intention.  Good things to come 🙂


How are you, friends?  What’s new with you?

My sweet blog friends Cynthia and Christy both tagged me in sharing five things about myself.  Nothing like a prompt to combat the writer’s block!  Here are a few little known facts about me: 


1. I met my husband on the Internet.  I KNOW.  Almost eight years of marriage and I still get red in the face when I talk about it.  My parents had just moved to a new area, I was transferring home from FUS, and I thought it would be a fun thing to do since I didn’t know anyone.  I had absolutely no intention of actually meeting anyone, but well…we all know how that turned out!  God works in funny ways.    


2. I love to bake.  I can make a mean chocolate chip cookie, but I like to dabble in all things sweet.  I once made a blueberry cheesecake for my dad, to which he asked, ” This is delicious…is this from the store?”  If you know my dad, you know this is the highest form of flattery. 🙂


3. I am a dance school dropout.  My mom started me when I was in kindergarten maybe? and I lasted only a few classes before I was totally over it.  This probably explains why I have no rhythm and my dad calls me Elaine.    


4. My favorite ice cream is mint chocolate chip…preferably the green kind.


5. I dream of having a library in my home someday.  Beauty and the Beast was my favorite Disney movie growing up…I mean, the rolling ladder to get the books way up high?  How cool is that?!

It’s been awhile since we’ve caught up!  If you lived nearby, I’d invite you over for coffee,  but I have tea if you like that better.  My kids would be excited for visitors and they’d want to show you everything: their latest Lego creation, their rooms, even the crazy spin move they’ve made up.  We won’t be able to get a word in, so I’ll pop some popcorn and declare it “Movie Time” so they’ll quiet down. The latest favorite around here is Alvin and the Chipmunks.  


We’ll sit down at my dining room table with a baby on my lap…or on yours if you want to hold her.  She’s awful smiley lately; maybe she’ll coo for you too.  I’ll have a plate of homemade chocolate chip cookies on the table because you’re special.  Feel free to eat two or three…you’re in good company. 🙂

I’ll tell you all about my crazy home improvement ideas and my decorating ADD.  I can’t seem to stay in any one room for long.  I’ll quickly bring you into the laundry room and show you the progress.  I’ve got big plans including installing new cabinetry and tiling the floor.  I’ve also got plans for the living room, so you’ll hear all about that too.  


The doorbell will ring and my latest monthly bundles from Honest Company will be on the step.  Oh, how I love this service!  I’ll open up the boxes to show you all the products.  We get both the diaper and the cleaning product bundles.  So far, I’ve been pleased with everything but the dishwasher gel (it didn’t get my pots and pans as clean as I would like).  The diapers are adorable, we have had minimal leaks (HUGE!) and I’m happy to find a natural option that’s pretty affordable.   

We’ll talk about plans for the month of March.  I’m hoping to cross a few items off of my 30 Before 30 list.  I’m thinking a trip to the library is finally in order and I really want to plant a succulent for the living room.  I’ll also tell you about my upcoming trip to Maine, just me and my Little Miss.  I’m nervous about flying alone, but the excitement far outweighs the fear.  2013 is the year to take risks, conquer fear and make things happen.  That’s what I keep telling myself anyway!


Then I’ll realize I’m rambling and haven’t heard from you!  So tell me, how are YOU?  What’s new in your world?

Today’s post is something totally different for me.  I’m talking about clothes today, friends!  First, a little disclaimer: I am no where near as cool or fashionable as say, Anna or Grace.  But I want to try.  I’m a simple girl who has quickly gone from her high school/college fashion (to which I never want to return again!) to the stay-at-home mom uniform of t-shirts and yoga pants (and not a whole lot of yoga).  I hate to say I “lost myself” along the way, because the line is so cliche, but I definitely put myself on the back burner.  


I made a secret promise to myself, which I guess I am now sharing with you, that 2013 is the year I spend a little time on me.  Not in a greedy or selfish way, but in ways that would make me a better wife, mother, sister, daughter and friend.  And stop number one on the “me” train is my wardrobe.  Dressing like a frump, with a body that I’m not happy with, has been rough on my self esteem, which then in turn affected my entire family.  But no excuses, right?  If I’m not happy with the situation, I need to take the steps to change it.


Enter the wonder of the world wide web!  I first heard of Stitch Fix randomly from…Instagram maybe?  I looked it up and thought it was the perfect idea for moms like me.  Basically, you sign up and take a survey called your Style Profile.  It goes through a bunch of questions ranging from your body type to what style clothing you like.  Then you can schedule your “Fix” and a stylist will pick clothing for you based on your answers!  There’s a spot at the end to add comments to your stylist, which I found very helpful.  I made sure to note that I had recently had a baby and therefore preferred tops that didn’t hug my midsection and were easy to nurse.  And they really delivered!


The process is so cool.  They send you a box of items, you try them all on, keep what you like, and send the rest back.  Here’s a peek at my first fix:

I apologize for being behind the camera instead of modeling these clothes for you, but a fussy little girl nixed that idea!  

I LOVED shirt #1.  It was a teal/turquoise color, sleeveless and just a bit flowy.  It even looked great on.  My only problem was that it was 100% silk and with my attached-at-the-hip, spit-up laden baby…probably not a good option for this stage in my life.  Sadly, I didn’t keep this one.

Shirt #2 was another awesome one.  It was an oatmeal color with navy stripes and so comfy.  Casual without looking frumpy.  Sadly, it was just a bit too tight in the chest area.    Bummer.

Shirt #3 was just okay.  I liked the color (it was actually a much deeper blue than shown in this picture) but the cut was just okay and I didn’t like the price tag for a shirt that was 100% polyester.  The item in the bag was a scarf.  It was cute, but I didn’t think it was worth spending the money.  I’d rather invest in new jewelry.

This is the one piece I decided to keep.  White and simple, but something I actually needed in my closet.  I know it will get a ton of use this spring.  Oh!  So this is the best part of the whole Stitch Fix box, in my opinion:

Every piece has a tag that gives you ideas for how to wear it.  So for example, one idea for this sweater is paired with a casual tunic and skinny jeans.  But you could also belt it with a dress for a totally different look.  I feel a little clueless in the outfit department, so I found that card extremely helpful!

So yeah, Stitch Fix is something I will definitely try again.  I’m thinking next time I’ll request some cute spring and summer dresses!  Have you tried Stitch Fix?  I’d love to hear about your experience!  

From the Kitchen
Since our sweet girl was born, meal planning has gone out the window.  And while I’d be lying if I said I was tired of trying out all the local joints around our new home (oh yum!), our budget just won’t allow it.  So I made a small challenge to myself to cook dinner this week.  Again, keeping my expectations LOW, I’m only committing to three “real” meals.  Baby steps!  On the menu: Crockpot BBQ Chicken, Beef Stroganoff and Italian Chicken.    

Around the House
We’ve got toys everywhere, so I’m researching and designing organization systems.  Craigslist has been checked daily, but so far, no luck.  I’m hoping to find a good deal soon! I’m also thinking one more Goodwill purge should take place…the boys’ birthdays and Christmas are near!

Homeschooling
M’s been asking daily if we can do school, so we’re slowly going to ease back in.  Phonics, math games and the occasional art project will be just enough this week.

Fitness
I’m two weeks postpartum and just starting to feel ready to getting back into shape.  I need to dig through a few boxes, but I’m determined to find my “Postnatal Rescue” DVD and get started!  I’m also planning on walking with my family for the Little Flowers Virtual 5K…have you registered yet?

Plans and Schemes
A trip to the pumpkin patch needs to be planned soon.  I also hope to start brainstorming Christmas ideas….call me crazy, but I know I’ll blink my eyes and it will be here! 

Reading
Currently reading A Secret Gift: How One Man’s Kindness–and a Trove of Letters–Revealed the Hidden History of the Great Depression, which I’m finding fascinating.  Have you read it?

Knock on wood, but life with four little ones is pretty great.  Loud and a whole lotta crazy, but still great.  I feel like I’ve said all pregnancy: Once you’re outnumbered, why not add one more to the mix?!  Good thing she’s such a natural fit.  She’s already proven to sleep through anything (which is a must with three big brothers!), is a natural nurser (such a blessing!) and has every male in her family wrapped around her finger.  

The transition to four has gone relatively smoothly for us, so I’d like to share my humble tips for newborn survival.  Let me know if you have any others to add!

1. Keep your expectations LOW. 
For my first day solo at home, I had one goal for the day: survive!  Other than feeding myself and the kids, I had very low expectations.  No long to-do lists taunting me.  Nope, if I could keep us all fed and happy by the time my husband got home, I declared the day a success.  Anything else accomplished was just icing on the cake.  So when I managed to fit in a few loads of laundry, bill paying and some bedroom organization…well I just entered rockstar category. 

2. Do one thing for yourself everyday.
I think Mammas can get overwhelmed in the newborn stage easily without this step.  Find that one thing that makes you feel beautiful/sane, and make sure you do that everyday.  Some Mammas may need to get dressed everyday.  Some may feel better with a little makeup on or the ability to blow-dry their hair.  For me, if I can get a shower in, no matter how short, it does wonders for my day.  I feel clean and ready to conquer anything. 

3. Don’t be too proud to ask for help.
With the births of my older two boys, I think I felt like I had to prove myself as a mother.  So I tried to do it all, asking for very little help.  Ironically, these were the times where I struggled the most with the Baby Blues.  With baby number four, I’ve finally learned my own limitations and I try to call out for help before I reach my breaking point. 

4. Step back and see with new eyes.  
Sometimes with the exhaustion that the newborn phase brings, it’s hard to see past the feeding and diaper changing and the older children watching, etc etc.  But if I could offer any advice, it would be to make sure you take the time to step back and see the good.  When I really take the time to see, I see three big brothers who just adore their sister.  I see a healthy baby girl who is so sweet, it makes my heart hurt.  I see a family that is so, so blessed. 

From the Kitchen

Posting on the blog may be a bit sporadic during the next few weeks, but it hasn’t been forgotten!  I’ve been brainstorming and dreaming of new things for this little space of mine.  I’m also considering getting a blog makeover…does anyone have any favorite designers?  I’m ready for a new look.

HAH…fitness, what’s that??  My lofty plans for exercising with my prenatal workout video have gone out the window.  Should I admit that packing, deep cleaning and going up and down stairs 100x/day is enough of a workout for me at this point?  🙂

Hoping to make the time to visit a few of our favorite places before we move: the Children’s Museum, local ice cream, and our favorite park are on the list.   

Reading
I’m pretty excited that I’ve almost finished my 2012 Reading Challenge with months to spare!  I recently finished Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum.  It was a page turner and I found it quite unsettling, but I assume every book about the Holocaust should be that way.  Warning for those intrigued: there is quite a bit of graphic description as far as the abuse/rape she suffered, so if you have no stomach for that, I’d skip this book.  

1. This weekend was busy, busy.  The weather was beautiful, so we decided to cram in as much as we possibly could.  A trip to Lowes to pick out new hardwood floors.  Lots of yardwork and playing outside.  Errands and bedtime adventures to get ice cream.  I even painted my dining room!  It was full and fun.     

2. Nine more days until we find out if a Mister or a Sister will be joining the fam.  We are all excited to finally call this baby by name.  And indulge me while I rant a bit: I am getting a little tired of all of the random comments from people telling me they are hoping “I get my girl” or “I know you’ll be disappointed if it’s not a girl”.  I always just smile, but I find it a little heartbreaking that no one acts like they’d be excited if it was another boy (which let’s be honest, is quite possible with my previous track record).  Boy #4 is just as exciting and as much of a miracle as Boy #1.  Sometimes I feel like I’m the only one who feels that way.   

3. I am so bad about making a menu every week, but I really am trying!  After a quick peek in the fridge and pantry, these are recipes I came up with (thank you, Pinterest board!)