April 10 on 10

Can you believe it's already APRIL 10th?!?  As much as we try to simplify, relax, be present in the moment and "slow down"...that "time thing" keeps getting away from us!

It's already time for our second 10 on 10 segment.  It's Jen's turn to post some things about herself that might help you get to know her a little better!  Here goes...
 
1. Love My Lists. If you know me at all, you know I'm a little obsessed with being organized. There are a few things I can't function without...my planner (which happens to be just like Julie's!) and my LISTS.  I've always made lists...I have simple, "typical" lists, and I have complex lists.   When I was teaching, my lists were divided into "Before, During and After" - I would write down everything I had to do BEFORE school...what needed done DURING school and what I needed to finish up AFTER school (yes, my teaching friends often had a good laugh at the expense of my lists).  Nowadays, I often have several lists going, with one being the "Main List" of all that needs accomplished over the course of a few days.  And, yes...if I don't feel like I'm being productive and crossing off things on the list, I will add something to the list just to be able to cross it off!  

 
2. Tub-aholic. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE tubs!  I have a serious addiction.  I use tubs for everything...storage, transporting things, etc.  I think this love has been passed down to me by my parents...specifically my dad.  Going to Target or Walmart to buy more tubs is one of my favorite things to do.  Add to that some cubbies and baskets, and I am one happy girl!

3. Sweet Treats. I can't resist them.  I'm not sure I've ever been able to turn down a piece of cake or a bowl of ice cream.  Chocolate chip ice cream and chocolate chip cookies (soft and chewy) are two of my favorites.  I've been known to be the one to take the kids to birthday parties just in case there is some leftover cake!

4. Nancy Noel. Nancy Noel is amazing.  The way she is able to portray so much emotion in her paintings is unmatched (in my humble opinion).  Years ago, a former student of mine introduced me to her art by giving me a signed and framed angel print.  I immediately fell in love (I still think of this student often when I walk by my angels!).  I've since collected numerous other prints (and books), all of which have special places in my home.  I have a special fondness (it may be my favorite yet) for my most recent Nancy Noel addition...

5. Picky Picker. I've had "long" fingernails maybe TWICE in my life!  Biting (when I was younger) and now picking my nails is a horrible habit I just have never been able to break.  If I'm bored...or nervous...or listening in church...or watching a show/movie (good or bad)...or stuck in traffic...I need something to do with my hands!  So my nails suffer.  It's seriously bad!  Silly Putty is the reason I've had nails the two times I have...the Easter Bunny brought some to our house...who knows - maybe I'll soon be able to write a post that shows off my long, pretty fingernails (until then, you don't get to see them!)!

6. Baseball. Watching it, that is - especially when my boys are playing.  I was never much of an athlete, myself, but I do enjoy watching sports.  I've really grown to love watching all types of sports since my own children have begun participating in them.  Baseball is a favorite (with boys' volleyball now a VERY close second!).  Baseball season is the start of spring...which leads to summer (another favorite of mine).  This year the baseball season has caused COMPLETE and TOTAL CHAOS with our schedules.  Three boys in baseball!  I'm going to need lots of lists...and a few "eggs" of Silly Putty! 

7.  Country Music.  I resisted at first.  But, with my husband's encouragement (actually pushing), I've grown to love country music.  I can still do without the "twang".  But, for the most part, I like the meaning and emotion of country music...and I don't have to worry so much about my kids listening to songs they shouldn't be listening to!  One of my favorites - and one that got me hooked on country music is Rascal Flatts, Bless the Broken Road. 

 
8. Cats. I love animals.  When I was young, I wanted to be a vet...then I realized animals don't live forever - I couldn't handle the losses.  I was given my first kitten was I was in Kindergarten.  Bijou was a Siamese - we had her for 17 years.  I have a special fondness for cats - domestic and wild!  I would love to have a tiger for a pet!  I think they are beautiful and so fascinating...I realize I'd be risking my life, as my love for the animal wouldn't stand a chance to wild animal instincts!

9. Down syndrome. It's a huge part of our lives, but doesn't define us.  It's now integrated into who we are - a piece to our family puzzle...maybe even the missing piece we always needed.  Since we've been blessed with Lauryn, our family - immediate and extended - has learned an incredible amount...not only about Down syndrome, but about perspective, acceptance, awareness, inclusion and true love.  I'm now passionate about these things. I can't say enough about the Down syndrome community...we've met amazing people (in person and online) and have made incredible friends.  

10. My Family. I'm so blessed.  I have a wonderful husband and 5 wonderful children.  They are my world.

Now that you know a little bit more about Jen (and Julie), tell us more about yourselves!  We want to hear from you!  ♥