Thankful for the Family God has Given Me

Day in and day out, we try to teach our kids how to behave and how to treat each other.  Sometimes, I really think our words do go in one ear and out the other.  But today, God showed me that there is hope and that He is slowly molding my kids.  Today is MLK holiday and H went to work early.  I didn’t set my alarm since there was no school.  The boys woke up at their regular time, got dressed and groomed themselves.  Since I was still sleeping, they helped Mui-mui get dress, go to the potty, and brushed her teeth.  Then, they went downstairs, got out the milk, cereals, bowls, and utensils and started breakfast.  They even poured a bowl for their sister.  When I got up and went to the kitchen, they were already eating.  I went back upstairs to start my morning routine.  By the time I got back, everything was put away and dishes in the sink.  WOW!  I was amazed and surprised.  Who are these kids?  Immediately, the Holy Spirit tells me to give them more positive encouragement and praise.  So I made a big deal and thank them for their help.  Ever since the boys were born, God has impressed upon our hearts to train them up to be a servant leader who loves Him with all their hearts.  This job as trainer and coach is the most important task I have on earth and as a result has caused me to worry and fear that we are not doing a good job.  Today, God showed me that they have the potential and that I just have to keep coaching.  The Lord also showed me that He is also doing the molding and that I am not alone as the coach; I am only the assistant coach. 

 This is my first cake.  Since we are on a budget this year, I thought I would bake my kids their birthday cakes instead of buying.  C and K are both born in February, so it’s a big birthday month for us.  I didn’t want to ruin their cakes, so this is my trial run.  It's yellow cake with strawberry in the middle and whipped cream frosting.  Turned out quite yummy for a first timer.  I just need more practice piping the icing and decorating the cake.  They ate the cake after dinner tonight and everyone had seconds.  Except H, he had thirds.  They loved it.  It’s a great compliment that C ate two pieces since he is not a cake kind of person.  He likes savory things better.  But he loved the whipped cream frosting.  Sitting there watching my family eats since I am still on the diet, I am once again thankful for them and to God for giving them to me.  In the past few months, I have baked apple pie, cookies, breakfast empanadas, French toast casserole, sausage and egg casserole, lemon cake, lemon bars, blueberry muffins, and now birthday cake.  My family ate them and seriously loved them all.  I can’t believe it.  God knew that I love to cook and feed people and He gave me a family that’s willing to eat what I make.  I can't take that for granted because kids can be picky.

The Joy of Shopping Returns

I haven't gone clothes shopping for myself in a long time, probably years.  That's because I hate trying on clothes that I don't fit or make me look fat.  When I was younger and skinnier, I used to love shopping because I fit most things.  Back then the only problem was finding clothes that is small enough for me.  After two pregnancies and not exercising, I have gained quite a bit of weight.  Two and a half months ago I went on a low carb diet cutting out rice, bread, pasta, and sugar.  In the first three weeks, I even cut out fruits.  I now only eat meat, vegetable, fruits, and nuts.  As a result, I have lost about 18 lbs to date.  I hope to loose 10 more pounds.  I will post before and after pictures when I reach my goal.

Since I am skinnier, I fit most things in the store so shopping is fun again.  I am so excited that I can wear size xs shirt again and even fit skinny jeans.  The best part is that I got a great deal.  I bought a whole outfit for less than $45; this include a shirt, jean, and boot.  Must find more deals.