Quick Takes - Monday Style

 

[ 1 ]

I am struggling with the fact that Lent begins in a few days! I am seriously considering Jen's practice of going without light one evening each week.

[ 2 ]

As precautionary measures, Genevieve had to have some tests that required a visit to the hospital where she had an ultrasound and x-rays. Unfortunately, the x-rays required a urinary catheter.

Appropriately frightened: What's a catheter, mommy?

It was just as bad as expected, but it is over and all is well. Genevieve found comfort in having both parents hold her down while she screamed for dear life. I hate those moments that you have as a parent, where your child is suffering and there isn't a darn thing you can do about it because you know it is for a greater good—in Genevieve's case, making sure her kidneys are functioning properly, so that no long-term damage is done.

Truly, how cute is this mini hospital gown? After the procedure was over, they even allowed her to choose from among a treasure chest of really sweet toys, so at least there's that for making her feel better. :)

[ 3 ]

If you follow my shop on facebook, you probably saw this photo last night. I finally made a mother's rosary for myself. TWO DAYS after making it, I received a custom order for one that I liked just slightly better than what I picked out for mine. It's all good.

[ 4 ]

When I reordered gift boxes recently, I discovered that my supplier had changed them slightly, and I must say that I was pleasantly surprised.

It is hard to tell, since this photo is with my camera phone, but the bottom is a really nice blue and the top is a dark brown—it matches my colors perfectly!

[ 5 ]

My favorite tweet this week was by @erwinmcmanus:

The question is not "am I an artist." We are all artists; it is intrinsic to our nature. The question is "do I have the courage to create"?

[ 6 ]

Joseph, Aniston, Miles, and I are going to see Casting Crowns in concert this weekend! I cannot wait to sing Courageous along with them. 

[ 7 ]

We didn't have a super exciting Valentine's Day since Joseph had to work late, but I was so excited about my homemade card and a gift that keeps on giving. While attending my first Mothers of Preschoolers meeting, the craft was to make a Valentine's card. While chatting with the other ladies at my table I was inspired to buy a journal that would serve as a gratitude notebook solely devoted to my husband. The one I found for super-cheap at Marshall's was leather bound with a crest, cross, and fleur-de-lis design. Hello, perfection!

So it hasn't been that long, but already I've noticed that even on those days when I am not feeling particularly loving, reflecting on something Joseph did for me or in service to our family during the day really improves my attitude. We are both blessed by this gift!

For more Quick Takes, visit Betty Beguiles! Thanks for hosting, Hallie!