A different twist - I've got some specific questions for people who frequently comment, so here goes-
1.) Heather - What is the connection between you and Thomas and Allison (Star of the Sea blog entries) that you've quoted a couple of times in your blog? Ever since your first post, I've followed both of their blogs consistently, it has been quite a journey for them and certainly inspiring to say the least. I've never known anyone personally, and at our age, go through cancer -
2.) Colie - When is your due date? Any changes you'll make in your birth plan compared to last time?
3.) Hollie and Jodi - What advice would you give to someone who just found out they'll be leaving their hometown to start someplace new with their family? (That's not me, I'm speaking hypothetically!)
4.) Stephie - What advice would you give someone who is considering getting a puppy for their family for Christmas? (And, What do you want Santa to bring you for Christmas? - perhaps some ulterior motives there....)
Drive Safe everyone, it's COLD outside!
Make sure it is God's Will. I know that is rather cliche, but I had a vary good attitude about moving (twice) because I knew I was suppose to. Also, Jodi had me do a little exercise about friends and to write down the qualities I appreciate and desire in friends and to stick to it when making new ones. It has helped me make and keep my priorities.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, make sure you really do your research as to what type of dog you want. Some breeds are child-friendly, and others are not so much. Some dogs need lots, and lots of exercise, others (like bulldogs) do not. If your family consists of a bunch of social butterflies and are away a lot, I would strongly consider whether or not a puppy is right for you at this time. Dogs need lots and lots of love, attention, and work. Training your puppy as soon as you get him/her home is key to a well behaved dog. Puppies will keep you up at night, and will need to go outside to potty at night (sometimes a lot!)
ReplyDeleteThe biggest thing I must stress is: Do your research before choosing a dog breed (mixed or pure). I have books and books on owning a Beagle, and there are certain things that Bogey does that would freak me out if I hadn't done my research and known before hand that Beagles do it. (I.e reverse sneezing. It sounds like the dog is having a terrible asthma attack, but in reality he is reverse sneezing, which is very common in Beagles.)
As for your second question: Bubble bath is always a hit with me. Gift certificates for borders, gift certificates for Sage Spring. And, that is about all I can come up with right now. I know, I am of no help to you! :o) If I think of anything else, I will email you.
I would say that as soon as you move find areas/places/things that bring you peace and comfort. If where you used to live you really enjoyed a certain coffee place, find a new one to call home. Do things that feel familiar no matter where you are...go to Starbucks. Go to a movie. Go to Target. Take a long walk. Take the kids to the park. I think all of these things make you feel less "away". Also, take up the art of hand-written letters! It's fun to check the mailbox everyday for replies. And kind of along the line of what Hollie said...it can be easy to fall back into old habits or traps that you struggled with where you used to live. Use the move as a chance to start fresh...don't make a lot of commitments right away. Be choosy about friendships and what you agree to get involved in. One great thing about moving has been to step back and look at my new life and if there are problems that exist here that also existed where I used to live then I know they are issues I need to address in a different way. But mostly I'd say the world is a lot smaller than we think it is.
ReplyDeleteVery Smart Steph!
ReplyDeleteApril 8th is my due date. Randy's sister's birthday is the 10th so it would be fun to share that day!
Birthplan: pray for a shorter labor, a better epidural, and less tearing:-).