Passing the time with an update

UPDATE: Di and Jeff have Sienna. I know several of you are checking in. I will have a post soon for Di's blog (once she get Sienna to bed). Sienna is GORGEOUS!!!

I am sitting here waiting to hear from my friend Diana. I am lucky enough to be posting to her blog while she is in China and tonight (well really tomorrow morning) she and her hubby and daughter, Ainsley will meet Sienna Grace. I am on pins and needles as I wait.

So, I wanted to update a few things while I wait. This is all over the place:)

Several people have asked me how I am doing with my Lenten sacrifice of no shopping. Honestly, it has been pretty easy so far. I have realized how much mindless spending I was doing. I have learned that I carefully contemplate big purchases such as furniture, antiques, decorating, etc. and I obsess over costly decisions such as vacations, summer camps for kids, cars, etc. However, I spend a lot of $$ on things like books, food, clothes and little inexpensive things that really add up and I don't even really think about it.

So, giving up shopping has made me look at my shopping impulses and habits. After Lent, I think I will really be a better steward of our money.

Also, my Bible studies are going well. I am doing a fabulous study with my Mom's group called Having a Mary Spirit. It is really great and I highly recommend the book. Also, I am doing way better than I expected in my reading the Bible in a year plan. So far I have read Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Acts of the Apostles, half of Psalms, and most of Matthew. To be honest, I was not sure I would last 2 weeks and I have made it through 2 months. I have read about a sixth of the Bible. I really hope to finish this goal.

One more update...Harry is on a new nutritional supplement to help his growth and he appears to have grown 3/4 of an inch in 3 weeks!!! We could not be happier. He was not absorbing food and this supplement is the most readily absorbable amino acids and it seems to be working .

And since I always need to post photos...here are a few....

Chinese NY decorations

I am so proud of Will. He got straight A's on his report card which has earned him two weeks at his favorite sleep-away camp this summer:)

Miss Kate is in a funny little phase where she wants to carry a purse and she puts her hand on her hips and tells me she looks like a "lady." I don't know where she gets this stuff?! But she can (and does) put her own hair in a ponytail by herself! I think that is pretty talented for a 3 year old! Doesn't she look sassy?

And finally, my hubby made this delicious and gorgeous galette!

I am so blessed.