First of all I would like to start off by staying thank you to all of you who take your time to read the blog. I have had quit a few of you ask if I am going to continue writing my blog. The answer to that is...yes! Yes I am and don't worry I was just lost in the time and adjustments to our new adventures!
Moving to the big city...well not really that big compared to like Chicago by any means...but it seems to be growing and new buildings popping up left and right. We really are enjoying the perks of the city life for the most part, although there are some downfalls.
I started back at college for my bachelors in interior design at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University. This has been a huge adjustment and yet very rewarding. The girls love that Mom is going to college and working to have a great career. I was absolutely terrified going back, but I knew this was Gods plan and he made it all work out. I am very thankful for this amazing opportunity.
The girls are all adjusted to their new grades this year and doing great! I cannot be more proud of them. They are working hard and studying. We made a pack on the first day of school that all four of us were going to get good grades! It is hard to believe that the school year is almost half way over already.
With all our big adjustments I have to say that I have lived and keep on living to learn and grow. We must learn and use that to grow.
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
What They Don't Tell You About Joint Custody
My Ex Husband and I have had joint custody now for almost two years. I was against the whole idea of joint custody in the beginning of the divorce proceedings. My thoughts were, there was no way I will be without my Daughters for five days strait. After sitting through three mediation's we finally came to an agreement that joint custody would be best for our Daughters. It has proven statistics through the court system that equal time with both supporting parents is less stressful on the girls. It honestly took me a while to understand that part. Being a stay at home mom they were use to me being there for them 24/7. From sunrise to sundown and those middle of the night "Mom" calls. I've learned joint custody is a roller coast of emotions. I had no one else to share or prepare me for what I was about to go through. Here is what I have learned about joint custody.
- It never gets any easier. Just when you think you got this emotional roller coaster under control, you don't. The beginning will break your heart. Literally ripped out and stomped on the ground kind of break your heart. It will take time for the kids to get use to it as well. Until then there will be screaming, clinging and don't leave me battles. My Daughters had a hard time adjusting at first leaving me as I did them. We still have a hard time but can manage our emotions a lot better.
- You will cry. A LOT. I cry every single time right after parenting time exchanges still to this day. I cry when the house is to quiet. In the beginning of our divorce I would sit in my Daughters bedrooms and cry on the floor. I couldn't tell you how many times I prayed to God to help me through the new transitions. I hated the quietness and being alone.
- You may think you'll enjoy the quiet time while they are away at their Dads, but the silence will make you miss the more than ever. You'll miss the laughter, the fighting and the feet running around the house. Everyone talks about how they look forward to the "me" time and I don't yet full comprehend it. I fill up my me time with work, family, friends and cleaning. I still can't find myself just sitting in a quiet house without my Daughters.
- You will miss the bedtime stories and kisses on the nights they are at their Dads. You'll treasure the bedtime battles more than ever when they are home.
- You learn that cooking isn't fun for one or two people. You look forward to family dinner when they get home and not care so much about the clean up.
- When you see other kids you will start to miss your own and want them home instantly.
- You will learn you don't like to share your kids but know you have to do the right thing because they have two loving parents.
- You will still have almost daily communication with your children's other parent.
- You will learn how to put hurt aside just to make joint custody work for the kids.
- You never want your kids to choose a side, or make them feel guilty. You have to remember as parents you both love them and want to spend just as much time with them. You will never take parenting for granted. You look forward to them running into your arms after being away at their Dads.
Through out my blog I will be sharing posts about blended families, custody and divorce. I didn't know a whole lot going into these subjects. I have had a lot of learn as you go. Please feel free to comment below.
Sunday, June 18, 2017
The Tally Sheet Garage Sale App
How many of you have held a garage sale or have been to one? I'm pretty sure we all have at some point right? As a parent I love to hit the garage sales. Lets be real though, having a garage sale can be a lot of preparation and time consuming. I can think back to the first grange sale I had and tallying up on paper everything I sold along with the price. In the end adding up the price of everything to see the outcome while making no mistakes because we all know starting over can be a pain.
That is where the app Tally Sheet comes in play! If you have not already heard about this app you're missing out. Tally Sheet is founded by a local Grand Rapids couple who know all about running a garage sale. It is completely free to download. Be sure to check it out and downloaded it for your next garage sale!
What all does Tally Sheet exactly do?
- It is used as a cashier. It cashes out your customers and keeps track of your sales.
- It can be used on multiple phones. It's great for those of you who have a multi-family garage sale since it keeps track of each seller!
- It calculates your change for you.
- Importantly it keeps you organized and stress free.
- It is available on all smart phones.
The next time you have a garage sale whether its a multi-family sale or not, be sure to download this amazing app to keep you organized.
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Three Sisters and Us is back!
I honestly didn't know what to title this blog post. So that is as good as it will get, "WE'RE BACK!"
I don't even know where to begin. Just over a year ago I decided to take a break from blogging and focus mainly on m Daughters and myself. There has been many big changes in our lives. I will be speaking and opening up about these changes on the blog. So what have we been up to this past year? Well....Let me give you a short recap. More details to come as I blog.
In August 2016 my divorce was finalized. Yes that's right, I have been going through the process of divorce during this past year. Divorce is not something I wish upon on anyone. It has given me a whole new outlook on life. You will learn that my divorce was not that simple and a lot of pain in the beginning. I will touch on this subject on the blog.
In April of 2016 I found God in a whole new perspective and professed my faith. It was the first time I spoke out about my journey in front of the church congregation let alone anyone. I learned in that moment I don't need to hide my battles and fears. There are many other people just like us going through similar situations and only God can judge.
In August of 2016 My Daughters and I moved out of the suburbs into the country. Yeah.....it was a whole new world to us. I learned that I am not so much a country gal.
In February 2017 My Daughters and I moved back to the city. This time the big city, here in the heart of Grand Rapids. It was a big change getting use to living in a bigger city. The only downfall is the traffic. Other than that we are slowly adapting to it and loving it. We live close by a big park that we have found to enjoy.
In the midst of all of this beautiful chaos I have met an amazing Man. He didn't have to endure my beautiful chaos but he did and I am forever grateful! He is amazing with my daughters. I didn't let them meet till we were serious for seven months. How long do you think a parent should wait before introducing them to their significant other? I felt very strong about this topic. I'd love to hear your input in a comment below!
During the past year I have been learning a lot about co-parenting. I have researched and borrowed books based on co-parenting from the local library. Therefore this will be one of my main topics on the blog now. Co-parenting is a topic I feel that needs to be addressed. There are many positives to co-parenting than we realize. It's all about the kids in reality. Putting our needs second and our children's needs before ours. I have learned myself that resentment does not go in hand with co-parenting.
I am now a working Mom as a CNA. I also have been in the progress of starting college again this coming fall. I am very excited for this journey and to also show my Daughters you can do anything you put my heart and mind to. I'm going into Human resource management for my bachelors and associates in business management.
After the past year we have grown as a family and are stronger than ever. We appreciate the love and support from our family and friends.
In August 2016 my divorce was finalized. Yes that's right, I have been going through the process of divorce during this past year. Divorce is not something I wish upon on anyone. It has given me a whole new outlook on life. You will learn that my divorce was not that simple and a lot of pain in the beginning. I will touch on this subject on the blog.
In April of 2016 I found God in a whole new perspective and professed my faith. It was the first time I spoke out about my journey in front of the church congregation let alone anyone. I learned in that moment I don't need to hide my battles and fears. There are many other people just like us going through similar situations and only God can judge.
In August of 2016 My Daughters and I moved out of the suburbs into the country. Yeah.....it was a whole new world to us. I learned that I am not so much a country gal.
In February 2017 My Daughters and I moved back to the city. This time the big city, here in the heart of Grand Rapids. It was a big change getting use to living in a bigger city. The only downfall is the traffic. Other than that we are slowly adapting to it and loving it. We live close by a big park that we have found to enjoy.
In the midst of all of this beautiful chaos I have met an amazing Man. He didn't have to endure my beautiful chaos but he did and I am forever grateful! He is amazing with my daughters. I didn't let them meet till we were serious for seven months. How long do you think a parent should wait before introducing them to their significant other? I felt very strong about this topic. I'd love to hear your input in a comment below!
During the past year I have been learning a lot about co-parenting. I have researched and borrowed books based on co-parenting from the local library. Therefore this will be one of my main topics on the blog now. Co-parenting is a topic I feel that needs to be addressed. There are many positives to co-parenting than we realize. It's all about the kids in reality. Putting our needs second and our children's needs before ours. I have learned myself that resentment does not go in hand with co-parenting.
I am now a working Mom as a CNA. I also have been in the progress of starting college again this coming fall. I am very excited for this journey and to also show my Daughters you can do anything you put my heart and mind to. I'm going into Human resource management for my bachelors and associates in business management.
After the past year we have grown as a family and are stronger than ever. We appreciate the love and support from our family and friends.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Sunday Funday
I can't believe tomorrow is already Monday. I feel like I am always telling myself that every Sunday night. Now that I am back into the working field I really enjoy my weekends a lot more. Most of you don't know since I have been off the blog for some time; I am now working outside of the home again. I am working where I have always wanted to...a hospital on the surgical floor!
Therefore we like to spend out Sundays having a good time or just simply relaxing.
Oh and of course FOOTBALL on is a must after church.
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| Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Prov31Ministries/photos/a.390955286960.162138.99550061960/10153183216521961/?type=3&theater |
Lastly, we like to include our Starbucks addiction. Okay...my addiction. What is your favorite drink from Starbucks?
I hope you all enjoyed your weekend.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
I'm Back!
No one tells you life is going to be easy.
It doesn't always go with the flow or as you may have originally planned. Life is not always going to be this perfect paved road, in fact there will be many dirt roads you have to travel to get where you need to be; want to be.
Sometimes certain people will come into your life and become road blocks or speed bumps. You need to learn to navigate around those people. Never allow someone who means little to you to become a speed bump or road block.
Or yet, even a life situation, Everyone comes to a roadblock or speed bump at some point and time.
So when you come upon a speed bump or road block learn to navigate or push right through and over them. God is there to help if you allow him. Use God as your anchor during the difficult times.
I'm back!
I would like to thank everyone who has still came to visit my blog while I disappeared for a short while. We all go through some hardships and mine I had to take a moment to myself. I was still writing as I just shared a piece above. I am officially back and happy to be back into my blog.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
My Crazy Busy Life As Of lately
These past few weeks my life as gone from go with the flow to crazy-busy and a little hectic in between. Although I honestly wouldn't have it any other way. It is what keeps me young and on my toes. I just need to get more organized now that the girls are back in school because my desk...is well...yeah lets not go there!
Though during all the crazy business it's very important to remember to take time to snuggle with your children. Read a book to your children. Let them know their important and still your number one. The housework can wait a bit. That took me a bit to understand because I cannot stand clutter or a mess. Guess what? I have three laundry baskets staring at me that need to get folded while my Daughters are in school and I homeschool our youngest. I have to get use to the quiet home again. But first we stopped at Starbucks on the way and picked up a pumpkin spice latte and cake pop.
Happy first day of school to all parents and teachers!!
Why my life has been crazy busy and a tad bit hectic lately...
- We have been squeezing in the last of our summer activities before the girls had to head back to school today.
- Last week we had some sick Daughters and ended up in urgent care due to a high fever that wouldn't go away. Not fun and poor Littlest one!
- I was busy and on the go with Mom stuff and back to school goodies.
- Our oldest Daughters soccer season started back up. I love being a soccer Mom!
- I've been spending a lot of time with family and friends before I go in hiding. Hiding as in when my Daughters go back to school ( today). I'm sure you all know what I mean.
- Sundays we have started going back to church...which feels A-ma
zing!! - I personally have started an online devotions series. I will be sharing with all of you soon!
- Lastly, I have started working part-time again. It feels great getting out again but I sure do miss my babies! I also have an interview this week at a hospital. Praying!
Though during all the crazy business it's very important to remember to take time to snuggle with your children. Read a book to your children. Let them know their important and still your number one. The housework can wait a bit. That took me a bit to understand because I cannot stand clutter or a mess. Guess what? I have three laundry baskets staring at me that need to get folded while my Daughters are in school and I homeschool our youngest. I have to get use to the quiet home again. But first we stopped at Starbucks on the way and picked up a pumpkin spice latte and cake pop.
Happy first day of school to all parents and teachers!!
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Our Summer Recap
Is it truly September already? It can't be. This means next week my older two Daughters go back to school. I left home-schooling my youngest Daughter. I can't imagine my home being quiet all over again...till next summer.
With that I wanted to leave the summer months off with a summer recap. What did you and your family do this summer?
School is out for the summer! So what did we do?! We went and hit up the candy store and the vegan donut shop of course.
We went on Vacation. In the month of June we went on a small vacation to Mackinaw City, MI. We explored the town and learned many history facts. Next time we will make it over to the island and make sure to wait till July to head up there. June is still a bit cold for northern Michigan.
We visited the beach a couple times. Living in Michigan visiting a Great Lake is a must. With hot and humid days the lakes always are a great idea and the state parks sure do get full.
And more summer fun. What is summer without your typical relaxing. hanging out with family. Riding your bikes with the neighborhood friends and having water fights. Roasting smores over the bonfire. Celebrating a little girls fourth Birthday in August. Starbucks dates and of course heading out to the farm and feeding the cows.
With that I wanted to leave the summer months off with a summer recap. What did you and your family do this summer?
School is out for the summer! So what did we do?! We went and hit up the candy store and the vegan donut shop of course.
We went on Vacation. In the month of June we went on a small vacation to Mackinaw City, MI. We explored the town and learned many history facts. Next time we will make it over to the island and make sure to wait till July to head up there. June is still a bit cold for northern Michigan.
We visited the beach a couple times. Living in Michigan visiting a Great Lake is a must. With hot and humid days the lakes always are a great idea and the state parks sure do get full.
I'm sure I left out quit a bit. But that's summer and we pile a lot in a few months and of course can't pile all that into a few paragraphs right?!
Now I am looking forward to fun fall activities.
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Oven Bakes Red Potatoes- Recipe
Today's dish seems so fitting with the weather. When did fall come knocking on our front door here in pure Michigan? Our summer has jumped all over the place temperature wise. Make up your mind Mother Nature! It really has me craving for a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks right about now. Or even these oven bakes red potatoes I am sharing with you below.
These are a must make. I love playing around in my kitchen and adding fresh herbs together with meat and our vegetables. When this one turned out fabulous I just couldn't wait to share. You will notice I didn't tell you exactly how much herbs to use. That is because everyone has different taste pallets. Therefore add in however much you would like and enjoy.
Oven Baked Red Potatoes
All you need is a bag of organic small red potatoes and
a package of organic celery stalks.
- Preheat your oven at 375 degrees while you begin your prep.
- Always wash/ scrub your fruits and vegetables before slicing and chopping.
- Dice your red potatoes and cut your celery into thirds.
- Combine in bowl.
- Drizzle 1-2 Tablespoons of organic EVOO oil and mix around.
- Now add in the herb mixture. Sea salt, black pepper, basil, parsley, splash of garlic.
- cook for about 20-30 minutes. Or until they start to look wrinkled and your can poke semi softly with a fork.
Labels //
food,
recipe,
Three Sisters and Us
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Protect Michigan Children
This is not an advertisment blog post. Being a Mother myself when I received the email in regaurds to do a post about the importance of spreading the word to other parents like myself about the importance of keeping our children safe, how could I not? So do me a favor a just take a moment of your day a do a little reading.
Kids these days are growing up in an online world. Children as young as two are using tablets, mobile phones and computers. 93% of teens (12-17) are online and 63% of teen internet users are online every day. The online world is changing quickly and parents are struggling to keep up on what their kids are doing and who they are talking to.
Michigan families, especially minors, are becoming inundated with advertisements from alcohol, tobacco, pornography and gambling marketers through different email inboxes and cell phones. Texting their advertisements is the newest marketing effort that many of these companies are using. With children spending more and more time online, it is a high priority to keep them safe from these types of messages. So what can parents do to limit the negative messages their children are exposed to online?
Thankfully, the State of Michigan offers a free program to stop adult advertisements from reaching e-mails, mobile phones (text messages) and instant messenger IDs. The Michigan Child Protection Registry, like the federal Do Not Call List, is a free do-not-contact service for Michigan’s families and schools and can be located at www.ProtectMIChild.com. It only takes a few minutes to register your family.
I encourage you to sign up and inform your friends and colleagues about how they can protect children from unwanted adult advertising.
If you have any questions or want more information regarding the Michigan Child Protection Registry, please contact Alisha Meneely at alisha.meneely@protectmichild. com.
Kids these days are growing up in an online world. Children as young as two are using tablets, mobile phones and computers. 93% of teens (12-17) are online and 63% of teen internet users are online every day. The online world is changing quickly and parents are struggling to keep up on what their kids are doing and who they are talking to.
Michigan families, especially minors, are becoming inundated with advertisements from alcohol, tobacco, pornography and gambling marketers through different email inboxes and cell phones. Texting their advertisements is the newest marketing effort that many of these companies are using. With children spending more and more time online, it is a high priority to keep them safe from these types of messages. So what can parents do to limit the negative messages their children are exposed to online?
Thankfully, the State of Michigan offers a free program to stop adult advertisements from reaching e-mails, mobile phones (text messages) and instant messenger IDs. The Michigan Child Protection Registry, like the federal Do Not Call List, is a free do-not-contact service for Michigan’s families and schools and can be located at www.ProtectMIChild.com. It only takes a few minutes to register your family.
I encourage you to sign up and inform your friends and colleagues about how they can protect children from unwanted adult advertising.
If you have any questions or want more information regarding the Michigan Child Protection Registry, please contact Alisha Meneely at alisha.meneely@protectmichild.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Someone Turned 4 In our Home!
Birthdays have always been a big deal to me. Growing up and now my own Daughters birthdays are a big deal. It's just too much fun being able to see their face light up!
This week we had a special golden birthday in our home. Our littlest lady turned four and it was her golden birthday. Therefore we made the day out to be around the color gold and of course blue her favorite color. Her little party isn't till this weekend so we had a small celebration on her actual "birth-day" and lots of fun. At least in an eye of a new four year old.
Although I must admit she was a bit of a "birthday diva" and therefore that birthday crown fit her well for the day. Ha ha! She may have even cried on her birthday. It was a great birthday in the books and she went to sleep on her pillow one happy little four year old. Oh yeah and she snuck into her cake a tad earlier than everyone Else.
To our sweet baby Helen.
You amaze me every day how strong you are as you grow into your own little personality. You are so caring towards others and your big sisters. You can sure light up a room and love to give out complements to others. May God continue to bless you and strengthen you.
Friday, July 31, 2015
The TGIF Blog & Instagram Hop
Fridays have always been one of my up most favorite days of the week. Which is why I started this growing, fun, friendly and inspiring blog hop! I am thankful to have each and every one of you that link-up and share with us each each.
Thank you!
Celebrate Friday!
The TGIF Blog & Instagram Hop is a Friday friendly hop where we hope you can blossom, meet and greet new bloggers. We enjoy having you.
Each Friday we will feature our most favorite post from the previous week. It could be you! We also have a weekly Cohost spotlight, that is great to gain your blog some extra notice (enter here).
The rules of the TGIF Blog and Instagram Hop Are simple!
1. Link-up any post or posts (no specifics) and your Instagram.
2. Grab a button and display it on your blog, in a post or somewhere visible to help us get notice for the Hop. Also helps us better feature your blog.
3.Be social. Comment and follow at least one blog you enjoy.
4. Tweet out the TGIF hop.
Meet This Weeks co host
What started out as just a place for Liz to document her pregnancy, Sundays with Sophie has become so much more. It has become a place where Liz, the blogger, shares her adventures of parenthood and the navigation of marriage. Her husband Kyle and daughter Sophie make frequent appearances on the blog.
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