Today starts 2 weeks of craziness in the Butler household. Lacrosse games and/or practice every night (combining my middle school and the high school schedule), work schedules, Emma's graduation and I leave next week for Oregon to bring Brennan home.
Added to that was a trip to Costco yesterday with Grace (to pick up things Troy and I forgot on our trip to Costco Saturday) where we picked up these delectable, chocolaty brownie bites that I cannot seem to stay out of!!!!
Stress makes me eat...crazy stress apparently makes me eat chocolate brownie bites and drink A LOT of Snapple. Trying to get all of our charts entered into the new on-line electronic medical record system at work, take care of all things lacrosse for my middle school team and attempting to meet Emma at some point this week to buy her a new dress for her graduation. I find it ironic that we thought life would be calmer when we were down to one child. It's a different kind of craziness but crazy nonetheless.
I always love when someone tells you how busy they are (get the irony of this blog post?!) because we are all busy! Some of us thrive on it, others let it consume us. I tend to like to be busy (maybe not this busy) as I get more things done. I also use it as an excuse to push off things I don't really want to do!
I always find it interesting to see what things people let get to them and what they let go. Please share how it affects you. And feel free to stop by for a Snapple and a brownie bite!
Monday, April 28, 2014
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Own it
I help coach middle school lacrosse...GIRLS. Hormonal, hyper, moody: we see all of these in just one practice (sometimes within 15 minutes!). Some days they are spot on, other days, they act like they've never seen a lacrosse stick or ball before. They don't focus in practices and you are constantly pulling them back in and reminding them why we are on the field.
One "trend" that seems more noticeable this year is lack of ownership. Not coming to practice. Blame the way the other team played (too aggressive, verbal, etc). Blame the officials (not making the calls, overlooking fouls, calling everything against us). We win and lose by the way we work within our team.
My motto has always been, practice like you play. Go hard in practice, give it your best. Show up. I really don't think it matters if you win or lose until the record applies to something like end of season tournaments. No one cares about the record from middle school lacrosse down to t-ball. Don't get me wrong, I like to win. But I know that losing is just as big, if not bigger, part of the game. The things I want my girls to take away from their time with me (a bit shorter this year since I am coaching part time) is that you are part of a TEAM. You aren't an island out there...you have 11 teammates on the field that are playing WITH you. I know you can run the ball from end to end and score. I am more concerned with your ability to see the field, looking for and making successful passes. Being a team player helps you on the field and throughout life. This isn't just about sports. I am trying to make sure you can work within a group, be part of the group.
Don't make excuses. If you aren't giving 100% then look in the mirror prior to blaming a teammate, the officials, the opponent. We all want to blame someone else. It's easier not to be responsible. Take ownership of your shortcomings. Don't be a sore loser...we all lose. Today it's a game, tomorrow a job. It's part of life. Handle it with dignity and realize that it's a learning opportunity. Become a better player/person because of the loss. Treat your opponent, your teammate and your coaches with respect. Being respectful now allows you to be respectful later. We all have bad days. It doesn't define us, just makes us all human.
Own it. How you practice, how you live, how you relate to others. It's about much more than sports.
One "trend" that seems more noticeable this year is lack of ownership. Not coming to practice. Blame the way the other team played (too aggressive, verbal, etc). Blame the officials (not making the calls, overlooking fouls, calling everything against us). We win and lose by the way we work within our team.
My motto has always been, practice like you play. Go hard in practice, give it your best. Show up. I really don't think it matters if you win or lose until the record applies to something like end of season tournaments. No one cares about the record from middle school lacrosse down to t-ball. Don't get me wrong, I like to win. But I know that losing is just as big, if not bigger, part of the game. The things I want my girls to take away from their time with me (a bit shorter this year since I am coaching part time) is that you are part of a TEAM. You aren't an island out there...you have 11 teammates on the field that are playing WITH you. I know you can run the ball from end to end and score. I am more concerned with your ability to see the field, looking for and making successful passes. Being a team player helps you on the field and throughout life. This isn't just about sports. I am trying to make sure you can work within a group, be part of the group.
Don't make excuses. If you aren't giving 100% then look in the mirror prior to blaming a teammate, the officials, the opponent. We all want to blame someone else. It's easier not to be responsible. Take ownership of your shortcomings. Don't be a sore loser...we all lose. Today it's a game, tomorrow a job. It's part of life. Handle it with dignity and realize that it's a learning opportunity. Become a better player/person because of the loss. Treat your opponent, your teammate and your coaches with respect. Being respectful now allows you to be respectful later. We all have bad days. It doesn't define us, just makes us all human.
Own it. How you practice, how you live, how you relate to others. It's about much more than sports.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Putting your best self forward.
10 Old-Fashioned Clothing Habits We Need To Bring Back | Thought Catalog
I read this little list this morning and it gave me pause. We have become a sloppy society. I am guilty of it myself. Wearing athletic shorts and a tshirt when running errands, yoga pants/jeans and a sweatshirt to dinner...not taking the time to present myself in the best manner possible. I haven't fallen (and never will!) into the realm of wearing pajamas in public but I know that I usually go with what's the easiest and sometimes, the most comfortable.
I fondly remember my childhood....I grew up out in the middle of nowhere. We went to "town" on Fridays. My parents dressed up (we usually go to go to dinner), they made sure my brother and I were clean and dressed nicely as well. I spent my childhood in dresses and was always reminded to look like a lady. Funny thing is, when we arrived at our destinations, everyone else had taken the time to make sure they looked nice as well. This carried on for me through high school, into college and well into my adulthood. Somewhere in my 40s, I forgot that I should take more time to present myself in the best manner possible. I don't shoulder that all by myself, because the rest of society appears to have forgotten that as well.
The pajamas comment above is a small part of how we forget to take pride. Rolling out of bed and just going with it really doesn't say you care much about yourself or those you're interacting with. Jeans in church (sorry, I really have never gotten that one). I understand the statements made "God doesn't care what you look like" and get that to a degree but does it really take that long to throw on something a little more appropriate for the place you're about to enter?
Being dressed scantily and in clothing that leaves little to the imagination is another pet-peeve. The world does not need to see your assets, your underwear or
I've been on a crusade of late to encourage my children, my spouse and myself to take a little more care and pride in how they appear. I think when we take the time to present ourselves in the best light possible, it shows we have confidence and that we value and respect the people we are dating/meeting/working/worshipping with.
I am not really sure when we became a pajama/yoga pant wearing society but I am all for putting the pjs away, taking a shower and putting my best foot forward. Hoping I can get the rest of the family to follow suit...
I read this little list this morning and it gave me pause. We have become a sloppy society. I am guilty of it myself. Wearing athletic shorts and a tshirt when running errands, yoga pants/jeans and a sweatshirt to dinner...not taking the time to present myself in the best manner possible. I haven't fallen (and never will!) into the realm of wearing pajamas in public but I know that I usually go with what's the easiest and sometimes, the most comfortable.
I fondly remember my childhood....I grew up out in the middle of nowhere. We went to "town" on Fridays. My parents dressed up (we usually go to go to dinner), they made sure my brother and I were clean and dressed nicely as well. I spent my childhood in dresses and was always reminded to look like a lady. Funny thing is, when we arrived at our destinations, everyone else had taken the time to make sure they looked nice as well. This carried on for me through high school, into college and well into my adulthood. Somewhere in my 40s, I forgot that I should take more time to present myself in the best manner possible. I don't shoulder that all by myself, because the rest of society appears to have forgotten that as well.
The pajamas comment above is a small part of how we forget to take pride. Rolling out of bed and just going with it really doesn't say you care much about yourself or those you're interacting with. Jeans in church (sorry, I really have never gotten that one). I understand the statements made "God doesn't care what you look like" and get that to a degree but does it really take that long to throw on something a little more appropriate for the place you're about to enter?
Being dressed scantily and in clothing that leaves little to the imagination is another pet-peeve. The world does not need to see your assets, your underwear or
I've been on a crusade of late to encourage my children, my spouse and myself to take a little more care and pride in how they appear. I think when we take the time to present ourselves in the best light possible, it shows we have confidence and that we value and respect the people we are dating/meeting/working/worshipping with.
I am not really sure when we became a pajama/yoga pant wearing society but I am all for putting the pjs away, taking a shower and putting my best foot forward. Hoping I can get the rest of the family to follow suit...
Monday, April 14, 2014
Emma
Today starts the last week of undergraduate classes for my oldest. These four years have gone by so quickly. It is bittersweet as she is close to embarking on true adulthood...I think something we are both a bit sad about.
It wasn't that long ago that we eagerly anticipated her arrival on a hot August morning. This tiny little being who was going to change our world more than we knew. How quickly that time went! Preschool, to grade school, middle school and high school. Then suddenly, too quickly, dropping her off at college
Nothing describes the feelings you experience as you watch your child become a young adult. Observing how they navigate the world of college, deal with some of the challenges of that world and come away a better person is a bit of a testament to how you've raised them. A nod that maybe, just maybe, you did a good job.
She leaves her undergrad life behind but not school. She'll enter OSU's French Phd program this fall...teaching entry level French while taking her own classes. She'll move into an apartment with two close friends that she'll pay for herself. She will be responsible. It is hard for me to think of that little baby I brought home as this young woman she has become. It didn't take long to get from that point in time to this one.
So, as she starts this last week of undergraduate classes, I hope she holds on to a bit of that child within. I hope she continues to have grand and crazy dreams and realizes that anything she wants to do is within her power. I hope she realizes that even though she's taking a step into this new adult world, we will still be here. Supporting and cheering her all along the way!
It wasn't that long ago that we eagerly anticipated her arrival on a hot August morning. This tiny little being who was going to change our world more than we knew. How quickly that time went! Preschool, to grade school, middle school and high school. Then suddenly, too quickly, dropping her off at college
Nothing describes the feelings you experience as you watch your child become a young adult. Observing how they navigate the world of college, deal with some of the challenges of that world and come away a better person is a bit of a testament to how you've raised them. A nod that maybe, just maybe, you did a good job.
She leaves her undergrad life behind but not school. She'll enter OSU's French Phd program this fall...teaching entry level French while taking her own classes. She'll move into an apartment with two close friends that she'll pay for herself. She will be responsible. It is hard for me to think of that little baby I brought home as this young woman she has become. It didn't take long to get from that point in time to this one.
So, as she starts this last week of undergraduate classes, I hope she holds on to a bit of that child within. I hope she continues to have grand and crazy dreams and realizes that anything she wants to do is within her power. I hope she realizes that even though she's taking a step into this new adult world, we will still be here. Supporting and cheering her all along the way!
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
everyday blessings
“As the years pass, I am coming more and more to understand that it is the common, everyday blessings of our common everyday lives for which we should be particularly grateful. They are the things that fill our lives with comfort and our hearts with gladness -- just the pure air to breathe and the strength to breath it; just warmth and shelter and home folks; just plain food that gives us strength; the bright sunshine on a cold day; and a cool breeze when the day is warm.”
― Laura Ingalls Wilder, Writings to Young Women from Laura Ingalls Wilder - Volume One: On Wisdom and Virtues
The quote above means more to me these days than it would have a year ago at this time. As I work through losing my mom, little everyday things suddenly mean more than they ever have.
A quick catch up with a friend over coffee, hearing about weddings and new babies. Talking to Emma about her dates. Listening to Grace and her friends giggle as they settle down to sleep. Messaging with Brennan about his choice of major. Excitement as we look forward to Emma's college graduation and Brennan being home for the summer. Spending Friday with my hubby as we do the Alternate Eats tour in Columbus.
And then there are even simpler things. Sunshine after a day of rain. The cat and dog fighting over a spot of sun on the floor. A clean house and the laundry being done. A crocus blooming.
May you enjoy your everyday blessings in your common everyday life today!
― Laura Ingalls Wilder, Writings to Young Women from Laura Ingalls Wilder - Volume One: On Wisdom and Virtues
The quote above means more to me these days than it would have a year ago at this time. As I work through losing my mom, little everyday things suddenly mean more than they ever have.
A quick catch up with a friend over coffee, hearing about weddings and new babies. Talking to Emma about her dates. Listening to Grace and her friends giggle as they settle down to sleep. Messaging with Brennan about his choice of major. Excitement as we look forward to Emma's college graduation and Brennan being home for the summer. Spending Friday with my hubby as we do the Alternate Eats tour in Columbus.
And then there are even simpler things. Sunshine after a day of rain. The cat and dog fighting over a spot of sun on the floor. A clean house and the laundry being done. A crocus blooming.
May you enjoy your everyday blessings in your common everyday life today!
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Paying it forward
I was reading Yahoo this morning...something I do everyday usually more for entertainment than anything else. I was all set to write a blog post today about the backlash regarding the Honeymaid commercial celebrating families of various types. I never understand the hatred people have for someone they don't know just because their lifestyle is different. Then I moved on and read this story...https://shine.yahoo.com/parenting/mom-grateful-for-stranger-who-paid-for-family-groceries---you-didn-t-judge-163003709.html and changed my mind.
I could have used my space to jump on my soapbox about people who judge people. I have a father who judges everyone he meets...it would only make sense that I'd be somewhat like him. Fortunately, in my quest to be the exact opposite, I am very open-minded, embracing everyone's choice to live the way they want and love who they want.
The woman who paid for the groceries didn't judge. She helped a person in need. That is what we all should be doing. Looking for ways to help someone who needs it. Not judging or condemning their choices. It's not our place to judge others.
In a way, it kind of comes back to my original thoughts for this morning. Love and kindness go a lot further than hatred and condemnation. We set examples for the children we raise and they watch what we do. My hope is that my children continue in this world accepting those who are in need, different from themselves.
So in my quest to be a better person and a better example, I've decided to take a lesson from the woman who paid for the groceries. I will focus on paying it forward, helping strangers in need, not judging. I hope you'll join me...looking at individuals in a different light, helping those in need and not judging the choices people make. Paying it forward means much more than paying for groceries.
I could have used my space to jump on my soapbox about people who judge people. I have a father who judges everyone he meets...it would only make sense that I'd be somewhat like him. Fortunately, in my quest to be the exact opposite, I am very open-minded, embracing everyone's choice to live the way they want and love who they want.
The woman who paid for the groceries didn't judge. She helped a person in need. That is what we all should be doing. Looking for ways to help someone who needs it. Not judging or condemning their choices. It's not our place to judge others.
In a way, it kind of comes back to my original thoughts for this morning. Love and kindness go a lot further than hatred and condemnation. We set examples for the children we raise and they watch what we do. My hope is that my children continue in this world accepting those who are in need, different from themselves.
So in my quest to be a better person and a better example, I've decided to take a lesson from the woman who paid for the groceries. I will focus on paying it forward, helping strangers in need, not judging. I hope you'll join me...looking at individuals in a different light, helping those in need and not judging the choices people make. Paying it forward means much more than paying for groceries.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
traveling
Never go on trips with anyone you do not love.
Troy and I travel with our children. Often with one of them, sometimes with two of them and rarely with all of them. We enjoy getting to see them outside of their comfort zone. It's easy at home to get caught up in the stuff that makes the house/our lives function: i.e. computers, housework, work. When we travel and those distractions are removed, it lets us all relax and spend time together.
We travel with them for sports and for fun. The sport travel is a lot of time in the car...listening to their music, talking about their thoughts, dreams and fears. Then arriving at the destination to watch them interact with a different subset of friends. They don't go to school together and come from many different backgrounds. They work together as a team and then you see them pairing off (usually based on personalities). Team dinners, time in the hotel...it's all fun to watch and observe and be a part of.
Travel for fun is a different beast. We usually have a destination in mind: a favorite city, a college town, the beach. The drive isn't usually as open...we tend to take friends but it is often just as fun. Conversations flow and you gain insights into their day to day lives with friends. Once at the destination, we allow the kids to pick the activities. Museums, record stores, waterfalls, beach...it's all an adventure and a peek inside their world. I love to see what interests them and sometimes see their unexpected reaction to what they are experiencing. Watching them let loose in an environment away from school and day to day pressures. Finding food is another adventure for our entire family. We don't do chains. We try to seek out those mom and pop places or start up restaurants (total dives) to eat. Usually the best food and the best people. We enjoy seeing the reactions to various menu items and we like to share what we order.
We are fortunate and realize that. We appreciate the time we get with each of them, whether separate or together. I think it is good for them to see us outside of our regular environment and to have us focus on them, try new things with them, get lost with them.
Looking forward to our next traveling adventures...
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