Friday Favorites

Rachel inspired me to write a note for my Friday Favorites. I've noticed that my favorites are often things I'm thankful for.

Dear self,
As you enjoy that cup of coffee and few minutes of quiet, it's okay that you're not stressing over your half-mile-long to-do list. You should, however, accomplish something while your husband has your son so that when they arrive home it doesn't look like you were drinking coffee and blogging the whole time.

You should also finalize plans for Sunday's caroling fellowship meal at church. Browning that 30lbs of beef for sloppy joes is a great start. Remember how much you enjoy feeding people, and remember how much you enjoy seeing the variety of side dishes and desserts that are brought for fellowships.

It's great that you're thankful for Hospice and that you want to do Random Acts of Kindness for your birthday, ala www.thebirthdayproject.com, and it's pretty neat that you're combining the two things. Remember to take plenty of card-making supplies to tomorrow's family cookie/craft day. Everyone will be glad to make a card of encouragement for a Hospice patient, or a card of thanks for a Hospice nurse. And don't forget to soften the butter for the orange slice cookie dough you need to make tonight.

Speaking of cookie dough and all things kitchen related, you are keeping an eye on that browning beef, right?

I know it's your favorite time of year. Well, one of them. I know you think all times of the year have their perks. But this time of the year involves sparkly lights, great food and traditions. Feel free to go all out on decorations, or feel free to just do the minimum because your 13-month old will probably tear the place apart. Self, just enjoy it.

Self, remember that being a mama is one of your favorite things in the world, even when the Matty-destroyer has once again snuck into the bathroom and rolled all of the TP off the roll, or has pulled all books off the shelf, or has pulled every single toy out of the toybox and your living room looks as if a tornado came through. Take a deep breath, look at his cute innocent face, and remember that someday you'll miss these moments. Someday your home may actually look clean and organized.

Now finish that cup of coffee and daydreaming and get back to the kitchen to finish the sloppy joes. And the cookie dough. Remember, it's your favorite time of year.