"A Wink and a Smile"

Not my words, but the Pioneer Woman's words . I wonder how long she has been taking photos (like she does)? I wonder if she took any formal photography classes? I wonder if she carries her camera on its strap 24/7? I wonder if her family knows what she looks like without a camera in her face? One thing is for sure, I don't wonder where her #11 scowl mark came from. If I am correct it would be from focusing with her camera while one eye is shut. Elaine ... another Botox deprived lady with the #11 engraved between the eyes.

Thank you to ... the Sardonic Dad   (a Catholic, a runner, a Dad to 11, and someone who isn't afraid to share with us his sarcasm)  and  Wenderful's Weblog  (a very pretty mom of 4 who has really great taste and probably posts as many photos as I do).  Somehow I don't feel all that worthy because it only took me about a month to post this on my blog ... sorry Wendy   . I do think that this may possibly be my second award ... the first being Rockin' Girl Blogger .  I'll be sure to add these oh so amazing awards to my sidebar. The rules for this award are: - the winner can put the logo on his/her blog - link to the person you received your award from - nominate at least 7 other blogs - put links to those blogs on yours - leave a message on the blogs of the people you nominate Okay, here goes (in no particular order I might add) ... Laura  : a Catholic teacher who is darn good at writing.  She is  clever, funny, and quirky .  I can always find something really good  ...

It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities. -J.K. Rowling Peer pressure only works on people who don't know what they believe. Your attitude toward life has a huge impact on what you will be motivated to achieve. I actually found these in my daughter's school day planner.  The latter two quotes didn't show an author, but I really liked them.  As my girls start the new school year I have noticed some comments about what everyone else has or what everyone is wearing or doing.   It is at this time that I feel I need to have some good material ... some perfect words of wisdom that don't seem too preachy.  Eventually the "newness" of the school year will be gone and for the most part my girls will think and act for themselves ... at least I hope so.

One very big fault of mine is that I have a hard time letting things go.  When things don't go perfectly the way that I like them to go ... I GET ANGRY.  There isn't a day that goes by that I don't ask God for patience and forgiveness. School has started here.  One big change was that two of my girls went back into school (from being homeschooled last year).  Another was  that ALL of the girls are at new schools.   HOW MANY NEW SCHOOLS?   3 So I not only need to adjust to the routines, but the new rules that come with the new schools.  My older two go to a really great private school.  This school acquired new land and buildings this past year and as we speak they are still renovating and making changes.  So not only am I confused with the "newness", but all the other parents and students  are trying to understand all the change.  My 3rd and 4th are going to a brand spanking new public school and EVERYTHING is still being figured out.  It was only the night before...

T here is way more beauty beyond those dimples, those eyes, and that smile. {K} had a great first day back at school.  I am optimistic that her new school will be a great place of learning.  Hopefully her teachers will see (to some extent) what I see in her ... a smart, caring, funny, athletic girl with a great big heart.

I am in my house during the day ALL ALONE . Going for my r u n ... *To clarify ... alone time is just 2 mornings a week, but that is a huge amount of time for me .

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