WYPW

 I have total.writers.block. I have been trying to come up with things to write about. But I've got nada, zilch, zero. It's strange, because in the past, I would literally grab a sheet of paper when thoughts came to me, and now my brain seems to be void of ideas. I do have a theory though. Not only is it a minor case of writers block, but I also think exercising and blogging are inversely proportional. I have been pretty focused on my marathon training and overall fitness level which has actually been pretty fun. It's just that balance thing, ya know?

I celebrated my 32nd birthday on Tuesday. 

I started the morning out with a "boot camp" style workout. I met two of my friends at 5:30 am and I think it definitely set the tone for this year since I am training a marathon. I have heard that women can reach their physical peak after having babies - so here's to that! This was also my first birthday that I wasn't actually looking forward to. I think it is the beginning of "being okay" with getting older. Aging gracefully is a gift from God and I want to age well.  

For Mother's Day, my parents offered me 3 choices.

1. Massage - ahhh, now doesn't that sound nice?

2. Mani/pedi - of which I am in serious need of

3. To have my house cleaned by s.o.m.e.o.n.e. e.l.s.e

#3 took me some serious thought. Because in the past, I would've fought off thoughts like (I am somewhat kidding here), "A Proverbs 31 doesn't need someone else to clean their house," "What a waste of money," and "It's just going to get dirty again." But you get the idea. I had a hard time letting someone else see the grime and actually have to clean it. It just didn't feel right. Well that was then and this is now. After 3 kids, I am just about willing to let anyone do anything for me. So I enjoyed it thoroughly. When I walked in after they were done, it was so heavenly. Having it cleaned that thoroughly was like being given a clean slate. It was like the year of jubilee and now my head is above water. Now the challenge is to maintain it and not have to start from the bottom again. I am so thankful!  I just about lost it though when I saw Reed charge in with dirty shoes, but I maintained my composure. It's like getting the first dent in your new car - it was just a matter of time. 

Patrick is planning a trip to an area outside of Birmingham, which was badly hit by the recent tornadoes. And although I would love to be selfish and say we really need you here, babe, I know they need his help more. I have always admired that one of Patrick's love languages is service. And he's good at it. He's good at coming to the aid of those who need it and I am thankful for his perspective. The church's main goal for this trip is to build connections and relationships with the people there that will need long term help. If you are interested in knowing more, send me an email.

Here are some pictures of the devastation.