Safe Sanctuary

WOW!!  What is it about weekends that just makes me think I'm invincible and can get a million things done in a day on top of all the other "normal" stuff???  I was so worn out it was actually making me look forward to today (Monday).  Yikes, never thought that was possible. LOL!  However, all kidding aside, I am pleased with all the progress we made around the house this weekend.  I FINALLY got all the kids' rooms organized and decluttered. We are in the midst of preparing for a neighborhood garage sale this coming weekend and boy did we ever need a toy audit!  I have a feeling our garage sale will look like FAO Schwarz!  LOL!  Jarred made some serious progress in the garage too- he even managed to hang his dart board and a few of his treasured neon signs!  Can you say "MAN CAVE"!?!?! LOL!  

Needless to say by the time Sunday morning rolled around I was exhausted and in desperate need of an energy boost.  I LOVE Sundays!!!  I think I've mentioned it's my favorite day of the week, namely because of our church here and just having a day to spend as a family and hang out with friends!  Such a great way to feed the soul!  As much as I hate mornings, I will bust my bootie to get this family fed, dressed presentably, and out the door to make it to church on time (sometimes even sacrificing my hair - thank goodness it's finally long enough to pull back in the black ponytail tie that adorns my wrist 24/7)!  It's so important to me, I NEED that time to just release, refresh, & restore my state of mind.  I've become quite good at putting up walls and hiding the burdens of my heart over the past few years.  I'm not sure if it's a side effect of always moving, or society as a whole that tells us we have to be "put together" all the time, but whatever it is, I've almost become a professional at it. However, on Sunday mornings in the safety of church, and in the presence of believers & my Heavenly Father,- just like Jericho, my walls come tumbling down.  I find myself drawn to tears almost every Sunday.  Often I'm just overwhelmed with the unconditional love and grace I'm so freely given.  Amazing!!!  And it's also a time when I remember my dad.  It's been almost 2 years, but some days it still feels like yesterday.  I cry tears of joy knowing he's restored to health and no longer in pain, but I also cry tears of sadness because I'm reminded of my loss.  It's a daily choice I have to make to celebrate his life rather than mourn his passing - I know that's what he would want, but it's much easier said than done.  I'm so thankful for the people and tools God has placed in my life to bring peace and comfort during such a difficult time.  I love that He knows where I'm going and is always there before me, prepaing a path.  I actually started writing a book about it.  Hopefully I'll see it through and finish it.  It's been good therapy if nothing else.  Maybe you all could keep me accountable???  LOL!  Goodness knows I need something.  I'm terrible about following through.

One thing I AM actually good at sticking to though is my meal plan! Yea!!!  I'm finally getting back to doing it on Monday!  Whoo Hoo!!!  So, here you have it!  It's my favorite part of Monday.... Let's give it up for Meal Plan Monday (sponsored by "Mama K's Farmer's Market" - aka our garden! LOL!)

MEAL PLAN MONDAY!!! (actually on Monday! LOL!)

MONDAY:  Chicken-Fried Ham, "Magic" Macaroni & Cheese (means I'm NOT using the box), Sauteed potatoes, & Garden Green Beans

TUESDAY: Vodka Penne Pasta, Baked-Stuffed Zuchhini, Garlic Bread, Salad, & Orange Blossom Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing (my personal favorite!!)

WEDNESDAY: Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Beans, Chips & Queso

THURSDAY: Leftovers (I'm thinking we'll be very busy setting up for the garage sale!!)

FRIDAY: Chinese Won Tons, Fried Rice, Sweet & Sour Sauce, Banana & Cream Cheese Dessert Won Tons

HAPPY MONDAY!!!! Have a blessed week!!