The Inevitable

It was bound to happen.

I tried to fight it but have come to realize that this is necessary.

I'm trading a blogging hiatus for my sanity.

Sad day.  

But also good?

For months I have been trying to keep my head above water with my blog.  

I held high standards for myself: post consistent, thought-provoking, and fun posts that closely resembles my reality... and of course a few good pictures.

But I can't blog up to those standards.  

And it's driving me nuts.

I feel guilty when I haven't posted in a few days (hello, there have been WEEKS- almost months where I haven't posted) or when I post non-sense crap.

Most of the time that non-sense crap is posted because I want to remind my readers that I'm still here.

And why is that so important?  

Deep down (who am I kidding, it's on the surface!) I don't want to be forgotten.

I live this wonderful life as a mommy, wife, and friend and I want people to know how amazing it is for me!

Now I have come to realize that letting the world know that I love my life has now turned into a "not as enjoyable" experience. Blogging feels more like an obligation than a fun hobby.

And I'm afraid that I'm missing out on this amazing life that I initially sought out to document.

My life is heavily scheduled as it is... the only way I've been able to write for this blog is to have about an hour for myself every night.  After Phillip goes to bed, after I've cleaned up the kitchen, after I've taken a shower- I found time to blog.

But now? I'd really just want that time to unwind- to quiet my mind.

So along with my personal Facebook hiatus, I am now taking a blogging hiatus.

I'll still be around to read and comment on all the wonderful blogs I follow.

And hopefully my inspiration will reappear and I'll find time to write again.

But until then... I leave you with my favorite posts and memories:

Where it all began... (post #1)

My first race and RESULTS

My weight struggles

Pregnancy belly pics

Gestational Diabetes Info

Breast Feeding Info

Thank you for all of the love and support during this past year and a half.  I'm so happy to have found a wonderful community to share pieces of my life.

Aloha and God Bless!

-Vanessa

Happy Happy Birthday to the Most Awesome Little Boy EVER

Today is my brother's birthday.

He is 6 years old!

Enjoying Pancakes Bigger Than His Face

He is the best little brother.  He is also the best big brother.  We have a sister (2) and he is so amazing with her. 

He is such a blessing to me!

I was an only child for most of my life. 

Every bedtime prayer, every birthday candle wish- was for a little brother or sister. 

I always figured God had other plans.  My parents divorced when I was 14.  I seemed destined to ride this out solo.

Then I moved away for college.  During my Christmas break freshman year my dad shares the news that he and his girlfriend were expecting!!

His estimated arrival was 8/22/2004.  I was home for Summer break but heading back to college very soon.  I waited and waited for his debut. 

He waited until I was back at school, an ocean away, to make his appearance.  I was able to meet him 3 months later during Thanksgiving break.

My brother is one of the sweetest kids I know.  He has always been there to make me smile and drive me crazy, usually all at the same time.

He has a love for Thomas the Tank Engine and his entourage, superheroes (especially Green Lantern, as of today), Transformers, and sweet surprises (ice cream, cookies, cake, etc...)

I thank God for answering my prayers and birthday wishes after all those years.  Seriously, 10+ years of the same request.  If there were any doubt that God answers prayers, I just remember this little guy and all the good times we have shared during his 6 years with us.  I can't wait to see what else God has in store for this little guy!!!

Happy happy birthday little brother!!!