A place for everything and everything in it's place.

I have some friends that are missionaries, and they write a blog. I read this just this morning... and I really liked the thought.

" A place for everything and everything in it's place"

This statement was made in reference to keeping a clean home.

There are many different places that I can apply this principle.

For example, with my recent weight issues, I think about those parts of my body that were affected by childbirth. I would like some things back in their normal place(s). Where they are supposed to be. Oh, well.

And, on the family side, I can apply this to the actions and attitudes of my children. I have to teach them that there is a time and a place for everything, right?

As far as my house goes, well, I have always liked this. When we had ONE kid, it was easy. I love to know where things go. I ABHOR disorganization. Unfortunately, my family of five does not feel the same way as I do. I really don't understand that why cabinet doors are not shut after plates are taken out, why empty juice boxes can't go into the trash can, and why chairs are not pushed up after the sitter-inner has gotten up from said spot.

As I have examined my thoughts on this subject just recently, I know why I do not like disorganisation. It comes from my childhood, when my family and I lived in "that house".

You know... "that house" that you passed by on the school bus, the one with the un-mowed yard, with junk sitting outside, the paint peeling off? Well, that was my house. I absolutely hated growing up in that environment. I wanted parents who took care of what we had - or didn't have - and I wanted cleanliness and organization. I knew- JUST KNEW - that when I grew up and got married, and had my own children, that my kids would not go thru what I did.

And they don't.

When I get angry, stressed out, or frusterated, I clean. I mop. I dust. I like to do housework.
A clean house is a happy house. That is my thoughts.

Well, this has taken a whole 'nother direction that what I meant for it to. I could tell some stories. But I won't. Not today, anyways.

Letter to Me.

I heard a really interesting song a while ago... it is by Brad Paisley.. titled "Letter to Me".
He is essentially writing a letter to his teenage self and telling what he could or would change.

You can look at it here..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fqtbMHfpXY

This song made me think about Eli - at age 13 - and how things seem so important at a certain stage, yet not so important as an adult. It made me remember what it was like to be young.



I know of at least one very important reader that strongly dislikes country music - but, really, give this song a shot.

So, I have decided to write my teenage self a letter. If you feel so inclined, please participate with me and see what you have learned about yourself. This should be fun!!

Dear Me,

Your parents are nuts. It is not you. Please do all you can, finish school and then start college. It is not cool to finish college at 35. I don't know why noone ever told you how important your grades are, but your schooling will take you everywhere. Study, study, study. Also, your friends are not that cool. Or cute, either.

Church is so important. Please go every chance you get. Know that God is where it is at.

One day, you are going to meet this really cool guy that is so funny. He will end up being the love of your life and the father of your children. So don't waste time on anyone else. Wait on him. He lives in town. He is just a year older than you. Go look for him in the hallway at school. He is blonde and really cute.

What you wear does not make who you are. Even though you are from Rickman, you are a cool person. And you are cute. Appreciate the perkiness of your boobs. And your flat stomach. And your little round hiney. Cause they will not be with you forever. Exercise more. Don't eat so many burgers from Druthers and McDonalds. Lay off the shakes and fries from the DQ.

Go to a high school basketball game. And all the football games. And pay attention at the pep rallys. They could be really fun. Try the Teen Center.

It will all turn out OK. Even better than what you expect.

Love, Me