Sunday, March 27, 2011

Springtime

Although the temperature outside is still hanging in the 30's, I am feeling like spring. Perhaps it's the sunshine, perhaps it's the fact that this week will usher in April, perhaps it's the fact that we, the church, are in the Lenten season. Whatever the reason, my mood has been lifted and I feel happier. One task that, for me, always indicates that spring has sprung, is window-washing. And that is a task that is much needed here in my house. When the sun can freely shine through the windows and I can clearly see out, then I will be able to fully enjoy life!
Spring cleaning, in other forms, has begun for our family. Last week when we had a nice 50 degree day we spent the afternoon moving toys and games from what will be the baby's room to the front porch. It is a 3-season porch that has been transformed into the playroom for the warm weather months. The kids have been bundling up and playing out there ever since we made the switch. And today we borrowed a carpet/upholstery cleaner from a friend and cleaned our rugs, couches and dining room chairs. And my body is exhausted.  This baby is wondering why I worked so hard and is glad that I am now resting comfortably on the clean couch!
During this season of Lent our family is cleaning house in a different sort of way as well. We have taken on the practice of "de-accumulating". Every few days we all come up with something that we don't need or use that is still in good condition, put it in a bag of other "de-accumulated" items. After Easter we will take our items and donate them to someone who can use them. Giving up these items that we don't need anymore and that have been taking up space in our house and lives is freeing. And it has been a good lesson for me about decluttering my life and opening up more space for the presence of Christ.
As we move into spring we are also quickly approaching the birth of our 3rd baby! Each day brings a bigger belly and more Braxton Hicks contractions. Here are some pics of the big belly as many of my MI friends have requested. I am now 34 weeks!


 Exercising is getting more and more difficult these days too. So I am really excited to get outside running after this baby is born. And P90X will be in the mail to me soon to whip this body back into shape too.
Thus ends the rambling of thoughts on this Sunday evening.