There's so many things to love, therefore so many things to miss

I love your love of collecting bugs.

I love your creativity. Collecting bugs in a plastic dump truck---brilliant! It's so you can tip the back of the truck down and they can climb out when they're ready, like you always say. And why take your bike helmet off? It's better to stay safe.

I love your love of layering clothes. A colorful pair of tights, a cute skirt, a fancy shirt, and a sensible jacket. It's all good! It's wonderful to have your own style.

I love your zest for life. I love your empathy. I love your pride in yourself----when you work so hard on something and it shows. I love your love of chicken nuggets, barbecue sauce, and broccoli. I love your hugs, and your constant joy.

I miss you more than any words I could possibly say.

My hands are folded in prayer. My fingers are crossed. My tears flow, but my faith---hopefully---remains strong enough.

Natural Air Freshener

This is what I made in my kitchen tonight.

Lavender Air Freshener

One cup water
Two Tablespoons white vinegar
Four teaspoons baking soda
5-10 drops lavender essential oil (or any other)

Mix vinegar and baking soda until fizzing stops. Add essential oil, then water. Shake.
Spray in house, on yourself, or on the stinky dog.

Why I'm proud today

My smart, intelligent, confident daughter brought home her report card today.

I am so proud of her.

Number two reason why I'm proud:
She just said to me: "You know you're the best mom in the world, right?"
(I said "yes", of course!)
She continued----"If all the other kids in the world met you, they would probably think you're the best mom, too."

Gosh, I love her.

You'll have to use a fork with that chinese food tonight

I've never been much of a dog person. Well, except for my cute dog Sunny who I had when I was little.

Now I have two large dogs. One came with marriage, but one came with the unfortunate coincidence of walking past someone giving away cute little puppies in the Wallmart (yes, I spelled that wrong) parking lot.

Now he's big, and not nearly as cute.

I sure do love him, but tell him frequently "I don't like dogs. Didn't you get the memo?"

I sure do love him, but he barks when there is any smidgen of out-of-place noise. Like, the next door neighbor daring to come home and shut his car door.

I sure do love him, but he chews everything up. You know---my shoes, chopsticks, the bathroom garbage. I'm still bitter about him eating my smoked turkey lunch meat the other day. I was waiting for my english muffin to toast and the dog stole my lunch meat. I still haven't recovered from the horror of it all.

Anyone want a dog? He's cute and barky and chewy. He came from Wallmart. I'll give him to ya for a good price.

Just give me some natural smoked turkey lunch meat.