whine and cheese

Have you ever felt like everything you were working so hard for was, really, for nothing?

I have.

I've spent the last 10 years of my life knowing that I wanted to be a counselor, and in one week, my vocational counseling professor has me convinced that that's not at all what I want to do.

Basically, here's what I've found out:

Moderately Successful LPC Practice
Income:
$75,000

Expenses:
$7,000 - malpractice insurance
$6,300 - office rent
$3,000 - utilities
$26,000 - secretary
$2,000 - legal counsel
$2,200 - assessment fees

That leaves me with a grand total of $31,200.
To live on.
With a master's degree and licensure in professional counseling.
And student loans.
And bringing my clients' problems home with me.

Making $5,000 more than my secretary.

I know it's not all about the money, but it can be a little bit about the money...right?

Thanks!

Thank you everyone for making Brylie and Casen's first birthday so special!

1

One year ago today, I experienced more emotions than I ever knew existed (and more pain than I ever knew existed):

Excitement the night before (I couldn't even sleep!)
Anticipation as I checked to make sure the nursery was just perfect for her.
Nervousness when I climbed up into the hospital bed.
Exhaustion after six hours of contractions.

Relief (I spell it e-p-i-d-u-r-a-l)

Fear when I was told her heart rate wasn't good.

Panic as the nurse hurried out the door to get the doctor.

Anxiety as the doctor rushed in to deliver her.
Absolute joy when I heard, "Here she is, Mari!"
Peace when I finally had her in my arms.

And it was all worth it.

Bitty Girl,

Sometimes after Daddy and I get in bed, we just lay there and talk about all of the things that we love about you. We talk about how beautiful your tiny face is, how cute your long eyelashes are, and how proud we are of your 3 1/2 teeth. We're so proud of how smart you are when you "love your babies," call us "mama" and "dada," or put toys in your baby stroller to push around the house. You learn so much every day and it just amazes us.

I love every moment I get to spend with you. In the mornings when you wake up and Daddy goes to get you, I can't wait for him to come back with you in his arms. You love to snuggle between us and go back to sleep for a little while longer. My favorite moment of the day is when I wake up and see your little face on my pillow next to me. I'll kiss your cheeks and whisper how much I love you until your big, blue eyes open and you smile at me. I love how you greet every morning as if it's the day you've been waiting for all your life. It's the most breathtaking sight I've ever seen - better than the most beautiful sunset.

I love you more than you will ever know. I'm so blessed that God has chosen to let me be your mommy. I know it's a big job since God has some huge plans for your life, but I promise to be the best mommy I can be. I will always put your needs first and love you unconditionally. I will do my best to never take you for granted, but to thank God for you daily. I will try very hard to discipline you out of love, never anger, and to teach you how to respect others. I will show you how to be compassionate. I promise to teach you all about Jesus. I will show you how to seek out God in his creation. I will try to be the kind of woman that you would want to be someday.

I love you, my sweet girl.

Mommy

Wanna know a secret?

Today is my hunny bunny's 24th birthday.

He doesn't know it, but he's getting a surprise birthday party tomorrow night.

: )

22 days ago...

I was thinking we could definitely handle being out of town for 3 straight weeks.

I'm so glad we're home now.

During those 3 weeks, we slept in 4 different houses and 1 hotel. We saw 2 sets of grandparents and 1 set of great-grandparents.

San Angelo to Midland: 112.25 miles
Midland to Houston: 556.14
Houston to Dallas: 239.55
Dallas to Indianapolis: 900.16
Indianapolis to Cincinnati: 114.03
Cincinnati to Indianapolis: 114.03
Indianapolis to Chicago: 183.64
Chicago to Dallas: 970.02
Dallas to San Angelo: 272.96
Total: 3462.78

I'm thinking Christmas will be at our house next year.

Round 4

of Mari vs. Mastitis

Why me, Oh God?!

big, big girl

11 months ago:



Today:




This kid is now saying, "momma," "dada," "uh oh," "thank you," and "papa"
She:
-nods her head 'yes'
-makes 'sad' faces on command
-dances to music
-claps her hands and waves 'hi'
-loves Elmo, Momma, and Dada (hopefully not in that order)
-thinks she can survive on cheerios
-thinks being naked is just the best ever
-Walks!

Where, oh, where has the time gone?