This one won't be as long as the others because I think I've said this on here about 100 times already. I LOVE THE TAYLORS. I know that I have been adopted in via marriage, but this family...I love them. I love that they have their own dysfunctions, but it is never something that is dwelt upon. I always have a great time when I spend time with them. And I am very much looking forward to Christmas Day night which is when we do the Taylor Family Christmas.
Steve's sister, Deanne, was the first to know about Steve and I dating way back when. There is a 15 year age difference between Steve and I and when we first met, I was 20 and he was newly divorced, 2 kids and 35 years old. You can imagine what we knew the family would say when they found out we were dating. Deanne was the first to either figure it out or be told and I remember talking to her on the phone and telling me that it didn't matter what anyone said...if we were happy, that was all that mattered. Not sure what the rest of the family thought of it. I'm sure they were very scared for Steve. He'd been hurt badly during his separation and divorce and here comes along a 20 year old "teeny bopper" which is what his ex-girlfriend called me and my best friend.
Anyway, despite their reservations (which I'm sure they had), the Taylors fully embraced me from the moment I entered the family. If my recollection is correct, I believe Christmas was the first holiday I spent with them. So, Steve and I would have been dating about 5 months by then. I remember they all welcomed me and I never felt unwanted or out of place. And I still feel that way. And if you want to go to Christmas at the Taylors, you will be treated the exact same way.
I have grown to love each and every one of them. And I hope they feel the same way.
12.20.2009
12.19.2009
6th Day of Christmas-My Work
So, I know most folks wouldn't list their workplace in a blog as something to be thankful for. But I am. I work at really a great place to work. Part of what makes it great is the people I work for and with. I have 3 co-workers on my team and my boss, Sherri. Now, you've probably heard me mention Sherri before...some in this blog, but many of you know I talked about her before.
I love working for Sherri. I worked for her a few years ago and left to take what I thought at the time was a better opportunity. And I spent the next several years scratching and clawing to get back to her. About 18 months ago I finally succeeded and I could not be happier. Sherri knows me well. I could go on and on, but we'll leave it at that.
And I work at a company who is very involved with the community and helping others. In fact, once a year, we get an entire day off work to volunteer with a non profit entity in our city. We have literally hundreds to choose from. And the company pays us for the day...we don't take it from our vacation or anything. And it is "strongly encouraged" that we participate. The company gives no telling how much to these same institutions every year to help them do what they do best.
We have a cafeteria, a fitness center, pharmacy and clinic all on-site at the Corporate office. It's free parking every day and if you have to go between buidlings, there are shuttles that run all day long so you don't have to walk in the rain or cold. There's so much more, but it is a fabulous place to work. The opportunity there is crazy. I have been there 11 1/2 years.
And then I have great co-workers...Katelyn, Sally and Erica. We all have different jobs, but we get along like family. They are some of my closest friends. We make a great team. And I love it.
So, in this season of reflection, I'm thankful for the company I work for, the people I work for and the people I work WITH.
I love working for Sherri. I worked for her a few years ago and left to take what I thought at the time was a better opportunity. And I spent the next several years scratching and clawing to get back to her. About 18 months ago I finally succeeded and I could not be happier. Sherri knows me well. I could go on and on, but we'll leave it at that.
And I work at a company who is very involved with the community and helping others. In fact, once a year, we get an entire day off work to volunteer with a non profit entity in our city. We have literally hundreds to choose from. And the company pays us for the day...we don't take it from our vacation or anything. And it is "strongly encouraged" that we participate. The company gives no telling how much to these same institutions every year to help them do what they do best.
We have a cafeteria, a fitness center, pharmacy and clinic all on-site at the Corporate office. It's free parking every day and if you have to go between buidlings, there are shuttles that run all day long so you don't have to walk in the rain or cold. There's so much more, but it is a fabulous place to work. The opportunity there is crazy. I have been there 11 1/2 years.
And then I have great co-workers...Katelyn, Sally and Erica. We all have different jobs, but we get along like family. They are some of my closest friends. We make a great team. And I love it.
So, in this season of reflection, I'm thankful for the company I work for, the people I work for and the people I work WITH.
Another good post...
From Stuff Christians Like. If this blog is not on your blog roll, I highly recommend you add it. You don't want to miss Jon's post today.
12.18.2009
5th Day of Christmas-Micah
Not to leave out any of my children, today is Micah's day! I said a few words about her yesterday, but I wanted to say more about what she means to me.
Micah is the reason that Steve and I are together. Many years ago when she was just a little girl, not much older than Jenna is now, she walked into my Sunday School class with her cousin Beth. Because I had been at this church my entire life, I knew every child and each of their parents. But Micah was new and I was instantly drawn to her. Those of you who are teachers by trade or have ever taught a Sunday School or VBS class probably know what I'm talking about. It's the kid that for some reason, you just have an instant connection to. Now, I know that connection to Micah was divinely ordained. Then, I had NO idea.
At any rate, Micah and I became very close. VERY close. Like I said earlier, she used to say, "I wish you could be my stepmother"...Micah was always very protective of Steve and I think she very much needed someone to watch out for him. She is STILL very protective of Steve which makes her an excellent mother.
A couple years ago, Micah rocked our world (not the first time!) when she announced she was pregnant. As most parents, we had concerns because while she wasn't a teen, she was still young (in our minds) and we didn't know how she would handle being a mother.
But can I tell you how she has blown our minds in what she's done? First of all, she carried our sweet grandson, Gage, with little or no complaint. She went through labor, had him and went home where she cared for him. She didn't stay with us or her mom for weeks at a time. She jumped right in and has turned out to be an excellent mother! Not to mention while she was pregnant with Gage, she lost her job, but when he was about 2 months old, she decided to go get an education. Now, she's a medical assistant at a peds office, no less. She works full time and takes care of her boy. Ask me how could a parent be any prouder?
She lives about an hour away from us, but we still see them fairly frequently and I cannot WAIT to see them on Christmas! It's by far, my favorite time of year to be with them. Gage is getting old enough now to understand Santa and gifts and it's going to be really fun.
And to Micah, I say...I love you. You are the first "baby girl" I had and I've never gotten over the bond we forged when you were just a mere 10 years old. I cannot WAIT to see what God has in store for you!
Micah is the reason that Steve and I are together. Many years ago when she was just a little girl, not much older than Jenna is now, she walked into my Sunday School class with her cousin Beth. Because I had been at this church my entire life, I knew every child and each of their parents. But Micah was new and I was instantly drawn to her. Those of you who are teachers by trade or have ever taught a Sunday School or VBS class probably know what I'm talking about. It's the kid that for some reason, you just have an instant connection to. Now, I know that connection to Micah was divinely ordained. Then, I had NO idea.
At any rate, Micah and I became very close. VERY close. Like I said earlier, she used to say, "I wish you could be my stepmother"...Micah was always very protective of Steve and I think she very much needed someone to watch out for him. She is STILL very protective of Steve which makes her an excellent mother.
A couple years ago, Micah rocked our world (not the first time!) when she announced she was pregnant. As most parents, we had concerns because while she wasn't a teen, she was still young (in our minds) and we didn't know how she would handle being a mother.
But can I tell you how she has blown our minds in what she's done? First of all, she carried our sweet grandson, Gage, with little or no complaint. She went through labor, had him and went home where she cared for him. She didn't stay with us or her mom for weeks at a time. She jumped right in and has turned out to be an excellent mother! Not to mention while she was pregnant with Gage, she lost her job, but when he was about 2 months old, she decided to go get an education. Now, she's a medical assistant at a peds office, no less. She works full time and takes care of her boy. Ask me how could a parent be any prouder?
She lives about an hour away from us, but we still see them fairly frequently and I cannot WAIT to see them on Christmas! It's by far, my favorite time of year to be with them. Gage is getting old enough now to understand Santa and gifts and it's going to be really fun.
And to Micah, I say...I love you. You are the first "baby girl" I had and I've never gotten over the bond we forged when you were just a mere 10 years old. I cannot WAIT to see what God has in store for you!
12.17.2009
4th Day of Christmas-HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHASE!
Well, today I'm going to honor the big birthday boy, CHASE!
Because I know there are some readers that visit from Facebook, I feel the need to give a smidge of background on Chase...who he is etc.
Chase is my all-grown up step-son. I met Chase when I met Steve. Chase was 6 years old. As you remember a day or two ago, I told the story of meeting Steve through Micah. Well, Micah and I were super close. In fact, for her, there were times when she was jealous...not of Steve's time spent with me, but my time spent with anyone BUT her. It was very sweet. Micah and I were close (we still are, but in a different, grown-up way). Chase...well, he always acted like he could care less about...almost everything. He was very laid back. If I was around, he was OK with that. If I was not around, he was OK with that too. And he'd argue with a brick wall. We always got along, but the relationship was different than with Micah. Maybe it's the difference between girls and boys.
Anyway, before I knew it, Chase had grown up and turned into a MAN. And a handsome man at that. He went to Marine bootcamp this year and graduated with flying colors. He's now a Private First Class in the Marines and about to graduate from his occupational specialty school. He also turns 22 years old today
And I am very proud of him. He's taken control of his life and I could not be more...surprised? No, no, I mean HAPPY! And I love him like crazy.
Happy birthday Chase. I'm so very proud of you.
Because I know there are some readers that visit from Facebook, I feel the need to give a smidge of background on Chase...who he is etc.
Chase is my all-grown up step-son. I met Chase when I met Steve. Chase was 6 years old. As you remember a day or two ago, I told the story of meeting Steve through Micah. Well, Micah and I were super close. In fact, for her, there were times when she was jealous...not of Steve's time spent with me, but my time spent with anyone BUT her. It was very sweet. Micah and I were close (we still are, but in a different, grown-up way). Chase...well, he always acted like he could care less about...almost everything. He was very laid back. If I was around, he was OK with that. If I was not around, he was OK with that too. And he'd argue with a brick wall. We always got along, but the relationship was different than with Micah. Maybe it's the difference between girls and boys.
Anyway, before I knew it, Chase had grown up and turned into a MAN. And a handsome man at that. He went to Marine bootcamp this year and graduated with flying colors. He's now a Private First Class in the Marines and about to graduate from his occupational specialty school. He also turns 22 years old today
And I am very proud of him. He's taken control of his life and I could not be more...surprised? No, no, I mean HAPPY! And I love him like crazy.
Happy birthday Chase. I'm so very proud of you.
12.16.2009
Stuff Christians Like Blog
One of my favorite blogs to read is Stuff Christians like. 4 days of the week, this guy (John Acuff) is hilarious. Wednesdays are for serious stuff. Today's post was a great one. If you have time, take just a minute and go there and read it.
3rd Day of Christmas-Jenna
Of course it was inevitable that I would have to have a post about my sweet baby girl! This one could be the longest yet, however, I'm going to restrain myself.
Last week on the way to school, somehow Jenna and I got to talking about the day she was born. She asked me to tell her the story of that day. Actually she first wanted me to rehash the day that I got food poisoning/a 24-hour virus and passed out in the floor at home while Steve was changing her diaper. Because that was not a glowing moment in my history, I declined because somehow I don't find the story as funny as she does!
For those that don't know (how could you NOT know), Steve and I had to go through in-vitro fertilization to have a chance at conception. Actually *I* went through IVF...Steve kind of just helped. :) It's funny, never once during all the shots in my stomach and hips did I question that I would ever be pregnant. It's like I just knew. And God saw fit to bless me with a child.
She's not perfect, but in our eyes, she's pretty stinkin' close. And she's 8 1/2 (officially yesterday) and that's more than halfway to 16. Driving. Dating. High school. It makes me want to hyperventilate just thinking about it. Before long, my sweet baby girl will be will be wearing makeup, smart mouthing me (because what goes around, comes around right?) and talking on the phone for hours about the boy she likes.
Anyway, I did relay the story to her and like many kids, she loved hearing it. Of course I had to kid-proof it because we all know how childbirth is, but she got the gist of it. And re-telling that story made me think about that day and all the excitement and anticipation of seeing this long awaited miracle child.
Excitement and anticipation not too unlike that which was felt all those many years ago when another child was about to be born. By a woman named Mary and a man named Joseph. Much younger than I was when I had Jenna, but equally as scared and unprepared. It wasn't until I had Jenna that I could relate to Mary, but boy do I now. She will be the one person I seek out in heaven to ask questions...
Last week on the way to school, somehow Jenna and I got to talking about the day she was born. She asked me to tell her the story of that day. Actually she first wanted me to rehash the day that I got food poisoning/a 24-hour virus and passed out in the floor at home while Steve was changing her diaper. Because that was not a glowing moment in my history, I declined because somehow I don't find the story as funny as she does!
For those that don't know (how could you NOT know), Steve and I had to go through in-vitro fertilization to have a chance at conception. Actually *I* went through IVF...Steve kind of just helped. :) It's funny, never once during all the shots in my stomach and hips did I question that I would ever be pregnant. It's like I just knew. And God saw fit to bless me with a child.
She's not perfect, but in our eyes, she's pretty stinkin' close. And she's 8 1/2 (officially yesterday) and that's more than halfway to 16. Driving. Dating. High school. It makes me want to hyperventilate just thinking about it. Before long, my sweet baby girl will be will be wearing makeup, smart mouthing me (because what goes around, comes around right?) and talking on the phone for hours about the boy she likes.
Anyway, I did relay the story to her and like many kids, she loved hearing it. Of course I had to kid-proof it because we all know how childbirth is, but she got the gist of it. And re-telling that story made me think about that day and all the excitement and anticipation of seeing this long awaited miracle child.
Excitement and anticipation not too unlike that which was felt all those many years ago when another child was about to be born. By a woman named Mary and a man named Joseph. Much younger than I was when I had Jenna, but equally as scared and unprepared. It wasn't until I had Jenna that I could relate to Mary, but boy do I now. She will be the one person I seek out in heaven to ask questions...
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Would one day walk on water?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Has come to make you new;
This Child that you delivered
Will soon deliver you.
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will give sight to a blind man?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will calm the storm with His hand?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Has walked where Angels trod?
When you kiss your Little Baby,
You kiss the Face of God!
Oh, Mary, did you know?
Oh, Mary, did you know?
The blind will see, the deaf will hear,
The dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak
The praises of the lamb!
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Is Heaven's Perfect Lamb?
This sleeping Child you're holding
Is the Great I Am!
12.15.2009
2nd Day of Christmas-Grandparents Day
Today, Jenna's school celebrated Grandparents Day. It's kind of a combination Grandparents Day celebration and Christmas Program. Poor Jenna, she's down 2 grandparents since this time last year. Thank God for Pacockey (Steve's dad) and Nana (Bertie, my step-mom). Nana made a special effort to attend this year. Not sure if Pacockey was there...sometimes he comes in late and we don't see him. Jenna might not realize it now, but as she gets older, the fact that her grandparents came to her programs will mean so much to her.
So, about grandparents...mine were already gone by the time I was born, so I've never had the experience of grandparents. Most of you have and you are so lucky. I'm thrilled that my Dad found Bertie (for a multitude of reasons) and that she became a grandmother to Jenna that I thought she might not ever have. (For those of you that may not know or remember, I lost my mom in 1992 to cancer...long before JG was born).
Anyway, I love Nana and Pacockey and in this holiday season, I'm thankful for them. Not just for what they are to me in my life, but for what they mean to my daughter.
Merry Christmas Nana and Pacockey!
So, about grandparents...mine were already gone by the time I was born, so I've never had the experience of grandparents. Most of you have and you are so lucky. I'm thrilled that my Dad found Bertie (for a multitude of reasons) and that she became a grandmother to Jenna that I thought she might not ever have. (For those of you that may not know or remember, I lost my mom in 1992 to cancer...long before JG was born).
Anyway, I love Nana and Pacockey and in this holiday season, I'm thankful for them. Not just for what they are to me in my life, but for what they mean to my daughter.
Merry Christmas Nana and Pacockey!
12.14.2009
1st Day of Christmas-Steve
My 1st Day of Christmas post today is about my sweet husband, Steve. To say I am fortunate to have found someone like Steve is an understatement. I was very young when I met him. For those that really know us, know that I was proably like THREE when we met for the really first time. He went to school with my much older brother so we probably knew of each other from way back when.
But I was still fairly young when I met Steve. I was 20...actually 19 because Steve came to my 20th birthday dinner. I had been through some pretty awful times and my dad didn't really have much advice to give in the boy department. Except, DON'T. :) Daddy would have been fine if I'd stayed at home with him for the rest of my life and his. God had other plans.
I actually was semi-dating someone else at the time Steve and I met and so was Steve. We were just friends because I'd gotten to know his daughter, Micah. Actually, I was smitten with Micah. Micah used to say, "I wish you were my step-mom." Ahhhhh....be careful what you wish for. Anyway, there was a point in time where I'd stopped dating this other guy and Steve had broken up with his girlfriend. I remember telling him, "God has someone special in mind for both of us". And I'm sure if I had listened hard enough, I would have heard God laugh. Oh, how my God has a special sense of humor.
Anyway, we started dating when I was 20 and he was 35. We got engaged on my 21st birthday and married just shy of my 22nd. 13 1/2 years later and we have weathered some pretty tough times. The last couple years have been harder than we could have ever imagined. But I could not have done it without him by my side.
And now, as we celebrate our 15th Christmas together, I'm thankful that God put this man and his children into my life. I know I didn't deserve him (still don't). But I'm glad that God gives us what He knows we need, not what we deserve.
I love you Steve. Here's to another 15 Christmases!
But I was still fairly young when I met Steve. I was 20...actually 19 because Steve came to my 20th birthday dinner. I had been through some pretty awful times and my dad didn't really have much advice to give in the boy department. Except, DON'T. :) Daddy would have been fine if I'd stayed at home with him for the rest of my life and his. God had other plans.
I actually was semi-dating someone else at the time Steve and I met and so was Steve. We were just friends because I'd gotten to know his daughter, Micah. Actually, I was smitten with Micah. Micah used to say, "I wish you were my step-mom." Ahhhhh....be careful what you wish for. Anyway, there was a point in time where I'd stopped dating this other guy and Steve had broken up with his girlfriend. I remember telling him, "God has someone special in mind for both of us". And I'm sure if I had listened hard enough, I would have heard God laugh. Oh, how my God has a special sense of humor.
Anyway, we started dating when I was 20 and he was 35. We got engaged on my 21st birthday and married just shy of my 22nd. 13 1/2 years later and we have weathered some pretty tough times. The last couple years have been harder than we could have ever imagined. But I could not have done it without him by my side.
And now, as we celebrate our 15th Christmas together, I'm thankful that God put this man and his children into my life. I know I didn't deserve him (still don't). But I'm glad that God gives us what He knows we need, not what we deserve.
I love you Steve. Here's to another 15 Christmases!
12.13.2009
12 Days of Christmas
I know I have been very remiss in blogging and I hate that. I want to do better, but somehow time just slips away from me and I get behind. Trust me, it's not that I don't have stuff to blog about, because most certainly I do!
So, today, since there are only 12 more days until Christmas, I thought I'd do a "12 Days of Christmas" blog. I know this is mostly a Thanksgiving type idea, because most days will be things I'm thankful for. But I believe Thanksgiving is just the beginning of the season of thankfulness.
You'll want to check back every day because you never know when YOU might show up in one of my posts! Tune in tomorrow for the 1st Day of Christmas!
So, today, since there are only 12 more days until Christmas, I thought I'd do a "12 Days of Christmas" blog. I know this is mostly a Thanksgiving type idea, because most days will be things I'm thankful for. But I believe Thanksgiving is just the beginning of the season of thankfulness.
You'll want to check back every day because you never know when YOU might show up in one of my posts! Tune in tomorrow for the 1st Day of Christmas!
12.10.2009
I Need a Christmas Tree...
Alright Facebook and blog readers. It's a call for help from the Taylor household.
This year, we went out and bought the most beautiful live Christmas tree. It's a Frasier Fir about 7-8 feet tall and perfectly shaped. We bought it Thanksgiving weekend.
And it's dying.
Yes, we water it. Twice a day actually. When we brought it home, I searched the internet for the best way to keep the tree alive. We did everything we read. Watered it frequently (it's never been dry), kept it away from the heating vents, turned off the lights at night etc.
But the stupid, beautiful tree is still dying. And it's dying at an alarming rate. Like I don't know that we will have anything left at Christmas, which is still more than 2 weeks away.
I'm not going through this again. I am on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree. And I might just have to find it before Christmas this year. So, I'm here to ask you all where the best place is to get a tree. Here's what we are looking for:
7-8 feet tall
Green, no flocking or colors
Pre-lit, preferably white lights
Frasier fir or something similar...we like FULL trees
Something that will last more than 2 years
A nicely shaped tree
Preferably something less than $1000
OK, the last one is a little overblown. We'd like something for about $200-300, but the trees meeting my description above that I've found online are running $500-600. I did find the perfect tree...it's beautiful online...and it even has a stand in a bag so when Christmas is over, you just stand up the tree in the bag stand and zip the bag up over it and store it standing up. This, my friends, is Steve's dream of a tree. However, it is about $560. For that much, the tree better last for 20 years. But maybe it's supposed to. Maybe it's time we invest in something that will last. That just seems like an awful lot...but the shipping is free. Somehow that doesn't seem to help.
So, dear readers, tell me your secrets. Where can I find the best artificial, pre-lit, beautifully shaped Christmas tree without spending a fortune (remember, Steve is only temporarily employed at the moment...)
Oh, and while you're thinking, send up a quick prayer from my friend Katelyn. She's flying to Las Vegas (to see Garth!) today and will be coming in Sunday...safe travels...
This year, we went out and bought the most beautiful live Christmas tree. It's a Frasier Fir about 7-8 feet tall and perfectly shaped. We bought it Thanksgiving weekend.
And it's dying.
Yes, we water it. Twice a day actually. When we brought it home, I searched the internet for the best way to keep the tree alive. We did everything we read. Watered it frequently (it's never been dry), kept it away from the heating vents, turned off the lights at night etc.
But the stupid, beautiful tree is still dying. And it's dying at an alarming rate. Like I don't know that we will have anything left at Christmas, which is still more than 2 weeks away.
I'm not going through this again. I am on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree. And I might just have to find it before Christmas this year. So, I'm here to ask you all where the best place is to get a tree. Here's what we are looking for:
7-8 feet tall
Green, no flocking or colors
Pre-lit, preferably white lights
Frasier fir or something similar...we like FULL trees
Something that will last more than 2 years
A nicely shaped tree
Preferably something less than $1000
OK, the last one is a little overblown. We'd like something for about $200-300, but the trees meeting my description above that I've found online are running $500-600. I did find the perfect tree...it's beautiful online...and it even has a stand in a bag so when Christmas is over, you just stand up the tree in the bag stand and zip the bag up over it and store it standing up. This, my friends, is Steve's dream of a tree. However, it is about $560. For that much, the tree better last for 20 years. But maybe it's supposed to. Maybe it's time we invest in something that will last. That just seems like an awful lot...but the shipping is free. Somehow that doesn't seem to help.
So, dear readers, tell me your secrets. Where can I find the best artificial, pre-lit, beautifully shaped Christmas tree without spending a fortune (remember, Steve is only temporarily employed at the moment...)
Oh, and while you're thinking, send up a quick prayer from my friend Katelyn. She's flying to Las Vegas (to see Garth!) today and will be coming in Sunday...safe travels...
12.09.2009
Wanna win?
Holy cow y'all. There are some fabulous giveaways on the following blogs...check 'em out.
Boo Mama
Kelly's Korner (Kellys' Reviews)
MckMama
Totally Together Reviews
The NieNie Dialogues
Boo Mama
Kelly's Korner (Kellys' Reviews)
MckMama
Totally Together Reviews
The NieNie Dialogues
12.08.2009
A Professional Photographer...
...I am not.
Let me preface this post by telling you that I am in love with my Canon Rebel XSI and I'm about to celebrate my 1 year anniversary with it. Since I've had it, I've bought a telephoto lens, taking a photography class, purchased a card reader, hijacked Photoshop and taking about 10,000 pictures. I just found a fabulous deal on a fixed portrait lens and so on Cyber Monday, I purchase it, along with aforementioned wireless remote.
I'm looking into an additional flash, but they are expensive. So Steve and I decided that if I'm going to invest in this camera I should start doing some little side jobs. I was pretty excited about that prospect and thought maybe some of you would let me photograph your family...free of course...to get me some experience.
Well, after last night, I am thinking perhaps NOT.
Disclaimer....you asked for it.
What's up with that look on Steve's face?
Does it not look like there are an extra pair of legs going on here? Seriously.
Oddly enough, this is one of my faves. Katie finally just gave out and the rest of us got tickled.
Yeah. Nothing good about this one.
And this one may or may not make the cut...we'll just have to see...
Now. Let's not all jam up my inbox with requests for portrait sessions.
Christmas Card Pictures...
I've had a request for this, so just for you Stacey... :)
Just so you know, the Taylor Family may not have Christmas cards this year. Because we are trying to save money you ask? No......because there is no possible way to get a decent Christmas photo of all of us.
This year, we have our new addition, Katie, who is NOT to be left out of the photo. Unfortunately, with a dog that is highly trained to keep an eye on Steve (literally), it's hard to get her to look at the camera. Not to mention, Jenna is into that fake smile thing and it looks AWFUL! Her smile is so beautiful when it's genuine, but you parents all know what I'm talking about right? That goofy, forced smile that they start doing. It's enough to drive me crazy.
I even bought a fancy, schmancy remote for my Rebel so that I could set Jenna, Steve and Katie in position and then get into position myself without having to rush before the flash went off. But even a fancy remote can't shave the 30-40 extra pounds off me. I looked like a big red whale next to Steve.
So, there you have me, looking awful (and yes, I know all of us women think we look worse than we do, but seriously...) Steve looking normal, Jenna forcing her smile and Katie looking everywhere BUT the camera.
Finally, we ended up on the stairs and the pictures were great. Except since I was using the remote so instead of getting up to look at each one, I'd just take a few shots. By the time we got to the stairs, I was exhausted, hot and starting to get cranky, so I just packed it up and was done with it. Those pictures would have been gold except for the fact that I'd moved Jenna up one stair to sit on my lap to hide my body and only realized when I looked at the pictures that I'd cut both our heads off.
But Steve and Katie look great.
Just so you know, the Taylor Family may not have Christmas cards this year. Because we are trying to save money you ask? No......because there is no possible way to get a decent Christmas photo of all of us.
This year, we have our new addition, Katie, who is NOT to be left out of the photo. Unfortunately, with a dog that is highly trained to keep an eye on Steve (literally), it's hard to get her to look at the camera. Not to mention, Jenna is into that fake smile thing and it looks AWFUL! Her smile is so beautiful when it's genuine, but you parents all know what I'm talking about right? That goofy, forced smile that they start doing. It's enough to drive me crazy.
I even bought a fancy, schmancy remote for my Rebel so that I could set Jenna, Steve and Katie in position and then get into position myself without having to rush before the flash went off. But even a fancy remote can't shave the 30-40 extra pounds off me. I looked like a big red whale next to Steve.
So, there you have me, looking awful (and yes, I know all of us women think we look worse than we do, but seriously...) Steve looking normal, Jenna forcing her smile and Katie looking everywhere BUT the camera.
Finally, we ended up on the stairs and the pictures were great. Except since I was using the remote so instead of getting up to look at each one, I'd just take a few shots. By the time we got to the stairs, I was exhausted, hot and starting to get cranky, so I just packed it up and was done with it. Those pictures would have been gold except for the fact that I'd moved Jenna up one stair to sit on my lap to hide my body and only realized when I looked at the pictures that I'd cut both our heads off.
But Steve and Katie look great.
12.02.2009
11.26.2009
Happy Thanksgiving to my 3 readers!
I finally finished cooking our delicious lunch at 11:30 this afternoon and now we are all laying around. We are about to start getting prepared for round 2 which will occur with the Taylor Family. Getting together with the Taylors will be different this year. We are missing cousin Alex (who recently got married-CONGRATS!) and is with her new husband in North Carolina. Chase is not home this holiday, but lucky for him, he is in Marine school about 20 minutes away from Alex, so they should be spending today together. Cousin Gabri is still in California, unable to be with us. Micah and Gage won't be joining us as they have other plans today. And of course, the most pronounced absence is our Matriarch, Mary.
But we have much to be thankful for in this year of loss. Let me name a few:
*God removed Steve from his most unhappy situation at his old job.
*He has continued to amaze us in providing for us since Steve has been out of a job.
*Katie joining our family, putting my mind at ease and saving Steve's life over and over again.
*The fact that my dad is no longer suffering, but has joined my Mom in heaven this Thanksgiving.
*My job that I love and work for 2 women who also believe and understand the importance of family.
*Jenna, Steve and myself are for the most part healthy and happy.
*The financial ability to send my child to a school where worshipping God is a daily thing.
*Friends who love me and will approach the Throne on my behalf.
*A God that loved me so much, He would sacrifice His Son so that I can spend eternity with Him.
So many other things to be thankful for. There's not enough time to list them all. I'm off to get ready for another food fest. I hope wherever you are, you are eating turkey and remembering all you have to be thankful for.
But we have much to be thankful for in this year of loss. Let me name a few:
*God removed Steve from his most unhappy situation at his old job.
*He has continued to amaze us in providing for us since Steve has been out of a job.
*Katie joining our family, putting my mind at ease and saving Steve's life over and over again.
*The fact that my dad is no longer suffering, but has joined my Mom in heaven this Thanksgiving.
*My job that I love and work for 2 women who also believe and understand the importance of family.
*Jenna, Steve and myself are for the most part healthy and happy.
*The financial ability to send my child to a school where worshipping God is a daily thing.
*Friends who love me and will approach the Throne on my behalf.
*A God that loved me so much, He would sacrifice His Son so that I can spend eternity with Him.
So many other things to be thankful for. There's not enough time to list them all. I'm off to get ready for another food fest. I hope wherever you are, you are eating turkey and remembering all you have to be thankful for.
11.25.2009
Thanksgiving Menu
Just thought I'd share what's on my Thanksgiving menu for tomorrow. I am cooking a mini-lunch for the three of us and then we'll have the Taylor Thanksgiving at Steve's sister's house tomorrow night.
But for us, we are having ham, cornbread dressing, macaroni and cheese, corn, green beans, sweet potato casserole, fruit salad and rolls. For dessert, we have cranberry-apple crisp and chocolate cake balls.
So far, I already made the fruit salad, the cornbread for the dressing, the dressing, and the cranberry-apple crisp. The corn and green beans will only take a few minutes to warm. I think I'll do the cake balls and a second batch of macaroni and cheese for the Taylors.
Now, I'm tired and have been on my feet all night (I cooked dinner too) and so I'm going to lay down. I'll have to get up early tomorrow to put the rolls out to rise.
But for us, we are having ham, cornbread dressing, macaroni and cheese, corn, green beans, sweet potato casserole, fruit salad and rolls. For dessert, we have cranberry-apple crisp and chocolate cake balls.
So far, I already made the fruit salad, the cornbread for the dressing, the dressing, and the cranberry-apple crisp. The corn and green beans will only take a few minutes to warm. I think I'll do the cake balls and a second batch of macaroni and cheese for the Taylors.
Now, I'm tired and have been on my feet all night (I cooked dinner too) and so I'm going to lay down. I'll have to get up early tomorrow to put the rolls out to rise.
11.21.2009
A late one...
I know this is a very late update. I blogged almost daily for a while there. I guess life just has a way of intruding sometimes!
Not really a lot has been going on. I'm working fast and furiously at work. So many things to get done before year end. I have a huge deadline looming over me. A year-long project that must be finished and doesn't seem to be going anywhere.
Jenna got her progress report from school last week. She's doing well. Es in Bible, Social Studies, Science and something else...S+ or S in everything else (handwriting, math, reading, etc.) We are very proud. She's been struggling with her behavior lately and so we've had a "coming to Jesus" talk with her which has resulted in her being without TV privileges for the past 3 days. I can already see an improvement in her behavior at home, so I hope it's working.
Steve's still working at the church about 3 days a week. He finally signed back up for unemployment (he was ineligible for a while when he was working 2 PT/temp jobs) and that will help fill the financial gap. We are beginning to really feel the pinch of him being out of a job. God has provided more than I can tell you through the last few months. Perhaps a post on that soon. Anyway, thankfully, for the last 10+ years, I have had a Christmas Club account where money is automatically deducted from my check and sent to a special account at the credit union. They transfer it into my savings in October and then we have that money for Christmas. It is the BEST thing I have ever done financially speaking (or close to it). Each Christmas, we have more than enough money to make our family's Christmas a good one. This year, it will come in extremely handy. I can't imagine the stress this year if we hadn't saved all year. We do give back also...we are helping with the church's Christmas baskets this year and I have to say, I'm pretty excited about it. I hear it's a fabulous time!
What's on tap this weekend? Not much. I am leaving shortly to go to the VERY EARLY matinee of New Moon with my friend Marcia! It's the 10 AM showing. We figured it would be best to beat the crowds. I'm pretty excited about it. After that, I have absolutely no plans whatsoever. Laundry of course, but other than that, just relaxing at home.
Does anyone out there shop on Black Friday? I've always wanted to do it, but never have. I couldn't do it alone or with Steve because I would be too easily irritated. But I think if I could ride with an experienced friend, that would be fine. I have shopped occasionally on BF if I was looking for a high dollar item like a PC. But it's been years since I've needed something like that. A few years ago, I laid down and took a nap on the Friday after Thanksgiving and when I woke up about 5pm, I decided I wasn't going to stay in the house all day and so I got up and went Black Friday NIGHT shopping. Y'all, let me tell you...best thing EVER. The crowds are nearly gone, parking is better and for the most part, the deals are still going, not to mention the stores are usually open late. I do the majority of my shopping then. It's fun and I look forward to it. The first year Steve was bowling in a league, so I took JG with me. The last few years, I've left them both at home...that way I can do her shopping at the same time. If you are interested in tagging along, HOLLA. My bestie, Rachel is going to be in OK for the holidays and that totally means I'll be alone and depressed. :)
OK, that's it. It's about time for me to head out. I have to meet Marcia in about an hour and I need to check email before I go.
Happy before-Thanksgiving weekend!
Not really a lot has been going on. I'm working fast and furiously at work. So many things to get done before year end. I have a huge deadline looming over me. A year-long project that must be finished and doesn't seem to be going anywhere.
Jenna got her progress report from school last week. She's doing well. Es in Bible, Social Studies, Science and something else...S+ or S in everything else (handwriting, math, reading, etc.) We are very proud. She's been struggling with her behavior lately and so we've had a "coming to Jesus" talk with her which has resulted in her being without TV privileges for the past 3 days. I can already see an improvement in her behavior at home, so I hope it's working.
Steve's still working at the church about 3 days a week. He finally signed back up for unemployment (he was ineligible for a while when he was working 2 PT/temp jobs) and that will help fill the financial gap. We are beginning to really feel the pinch of him being out of a job. God has provided more than I can tell you through the last few months. Perhaps a post on that soon. Anyway, thankfully, for the last 10+ years, I have had a Christmas Club account where money is automatically deducted from my check and sent to a special account at the credit union. They transfer it into my savings in October and then we have that money for Christmas. It is the BEST thing I have ever done financially speaking (or close to it). Each Christmas, we have more than enough money to make our family's Christmas a good one. This year, it will come in extremely handy. I can't imagine the stress this year if we hadn't saved all year. We do give back also...we are helping with the church's Christmas baskets this year and I have to say, I'm pretty excited about it. I hear it's a fabulous time!
What's on tap this weekend? Not much. I am leaving shortly to go to the VERY EARLY matinee of New Moon with my friend Marcia! It's the 10 AM showing. We figured it would be best to beat the crowds. I'm pretty excited about it. After that, I have absolutely no plans whatsoever. Laundry of course, but other than that, just relaxing at home.
Does anyone out there shop on Black Friday? I've always wanted to do it, but never have. I couldn't do it alone or with Steve because I would be too easily irritated. But I think if I could ride with an experienced friend, that would be fine. I have shopped occasionally on BF if I was looking for a high dollar item like a PC. But it's been years since I've needed something like that. A few years ago, I laid down and took a nap on the Friday after Thanksgiving and when I woke up about 5pm, I decided I wasn't going to stay in the house all day and so I got up and went Black Friday NIGHT shopping. Y'all, let me tell you...best thing EVER. The crowds are nearly gone, parking is better and for the most part, the deals are still going, not to mention the stores are usually open late. I do the majority of my shopping then. It's fun and I look forward to it. The first year Steve was bowling in a league, so I took JG with me. The last few years, I've left them both at home...that way I can do her shopping at the same time. If you are interested in tagging along, HOLLA. My bestie, Rachel is going to be in OK for the holidays and that totally means I'll be alone and depressed. :)
OK, that's it. It's about time for me to head out. I have to meet Marcia in about an hour and I need to check email before I go.
Happy before-Thanksgiving weekend!
11.11.2009
Veteran's Day
Today is Veteran's Day. Up until this year, for me it was just another day for the banks to be closed and the mail not to run.
This year, it means so much more.
Take a few moments today to pray for the troops who are deployed, those in training, those that were affected by the events in Ft. Hood, TX...and if you know someone in the military...past or present...thank them. Their sacrifice provided the freedoms we all enjoy today.
Happy Veteran's Day!
This year, it means so much more.
Take a few moments today to pray for the troops who are deployed, those in training, those that were affected by the events in Ft. Hood, TX...and if you know someone in the military...past or present...thank them. Their sacrifice provided the freedoms we all enjoy today.
Happy Veteran's Day!
11.09.2009
Do you Twitter?
I'm pretty sure that no one cares about what I'm doing every minute of the day except me...but I am now Tweeting periodically. If you are one of few people who "do" Twitter, then you can follow me @sandysignr or leave me your Twitter handle in the comments...
Need a little miracle today?
If you keep up with MckMama's blog and Stellan, you'll know that they had to do the ablation today. Stellan was in bad shape and actually coded before the surgery even began.
If you haven't already read her post from this evening and need a little pick-me-up, read the results of his surgery here.
If you haven't already read her post from this evening and need a little pick-me-up, read the results of his surgery here.
11.08.2009
This is a test post
This is a test post I am sending from my cell phone. Could it be true? I can blog from my cell?!
*Sandra*
*Sandra*
10.31.2009
Cleopatra and a Cowboy
For those of you that played my guessing game as to what Jenna was going to be for Halloween...here you go...and pictures of our surprise guest...
Preparing for the costume!
Cleopatra! The Queen of the Nile. Did anyone catch my hint in an earlier comment??
Cleopatra and the Cowboy. What a combination!
HAPPY HALLOWEEN everyone!
Preparing for the costume!
Cleopatra! The Queen of the Nile. Did anyone catch my hint in an earlier comment??
Cleopatra and the Cowboy. What a combination!
HAPPY HALLOWEEN everyone!Happy Halloween!
Happy Halloween! We have a full day today which includes carving our pumpkin which I hope hasn't rotted sitting outside. I have the regular weekend stuff...laundry, cleaning, scrapbooking. And we are hoping to have a special guest tonight. More on that, as well as Jenna's costume, later.
I can't tell you how excited I am that this work week is over. If you will remember, it started with me being over tired and feeling awful. I have worked late every night this week. Last night, Jenna spent the evening at school doing special Halloween activities while Steve and I went out for a date night, which makes 2 in one week! It was pouring down rain and honestly, I would have loved to come home and snuggle up in front of the TV with some movies and our own microwave popcorn. But we had a good time nevertheless.
Speaking of that, Tuesday night we went to TPAC to see "Little House on the Prairie". Melissa Gilbert played "Ma" and while it was cute and it was neat to see her on stage in the show that she grew up in, but no offense, she is not that great of a singer. The show starts off slow in that it was hard for me to get interested in and I think it's because the plot jumps around so much that you don't really have time to get interested in it before it's moved on. Ultimately, the end is cute and happy and you know how I like a happy ending!
Last night, because it was raining, we only had time to go through the Chik-fil-a drive thru. I got off work just a wee bit early and since we couldn't drop JG off until 6, I went over to Kohls. I LOVE that place! I had a $20 gift certificate and a 15% off your entire purchase which turned into 20% if you spent $100 or more. I got 3 blouses for work, 2 pair of pants and jewelry to match all the blouses. With my gift certificate and my 20% off, I spent just a few dollars over $100 and saved...get this...$126!!! Did I already mention how much I LOVE that place?!!? After we dropped JG off and ran through the drive thru, we went to see the movie Paranormal. If you know Steve, you know how much he loves all things scary. He would much rather decorate for Halloween than Christmas (part of that has to do with the fact that it's so much colder outside in December than October!). But he just loves Halloween and scary movies. So we went to see it while we had the chance. Like all movies, I'm sure there will be differing opinions, but I thought it was SUPER SCARY. That is, if you are into scary. Not to give anything away, but it kind of reminded me of The Blair Witch Project, which I also thought was pretty scary. And when I say scary, I mean mostly in that mind way. You know, when you obviously know it's just a movie etc., but when you get home, you start listening for sounds and think you see stuff you don't. So, Steve enjoyed it and I did too. At any rate, it is good to get out with my sweetheart every once in a while.
OK, better get this weekend started...Lots to do.................
I can't tell you how excited I am that this work week is over. If you will remember, it started with me being over tired and feeling awful. I have worked late every night this week. Last night, Jenna spent the evening at school doing special Halloween activities while Steve and I went out for a date night, which makes 2 in one week! It was pouring down rain and honestly, I would have loved to come home and snuggle up in front of the TV with some movies and our own microwave popcorn. But we had a good time nevertheless.
Speaking of that, Tuesday night we went to TPAC to see "Little House on the Prairie". Melissa Gilbert played "Ma" and while it was cute and it was neat to see her on stage in the show that she grew up in, but no offense, she is not that great of a singer. The show starts off slow in that it was hard for me to get interested in and I think it's because the plot jumps around so much that you don't really have time to get interested in it before it's moved on. Ultimately, the end is cute and happy and you know how I like a happy ending!
Last night, because it was raining, we only had time to go through the Chik-fil-a drive thru. I got off work just a wee bit early and since we couldn't drop JG off until 6, I went over to Kohls. I LOVE that place! I had a $20 gift certificate and a 15% off your entire purchase which turned into 20% if you spent $100 or more. I got 3 blouses for work, 2 pair of pants and jewelry to match all the blouses. With my gift certificate and my 20% off, I spent just a few dollars over $100 and saved...get this...$126!!! Did I already mention how much I LOVE that place?!!? After we dropped JG off and ran through the drive thru, we went to see the movie Paranormal. If you know Steve, you know how much he loves all things scary. He would much rather decorate for Halloween than Christmas (part of that has to do with the fact that it's so much colder outside in December than October!). But he just loves Halloween and scary movies. So we went to see it while we had the chance. Like all movies, I'm sure there will be differing opinions, but I thought it was SUPER SCARY. That is, if you are into scary. Not to give anything away, but it kind of reminded me of The Blair Witch Project, which I also thought was pretty scary. And when I say scary, I mean mostly in that mind way. You know, when you obviously know it's just a movie etc., but when you get home, you start listening for sounds and think you see stuff you don't. So, Steve enjoyed it and I did too. At any rate, it is good to get out with my sweetheart every once in a while.
OK, better get this weekend started...Lots to do.................
10.30.2009
Pray for Stellan
If you keep up with MckMama and her blog, you know that Stellan is again doing poorly. If you don't know Stellan's story, I encourage you to go to MckMama's blog and get updated. It is a miraculous story which makes Stellan's struggle now all the more painful. Let's join together and pray for him...
10.29.2009
What do you know about me?
So, I saw this on another blog and thought it would be fun to do...you can learn a little more about me!
1. What is your favorite thing to snack on while your blogging?
I don't usually snack while blogging...but if I am, probably something chocolate!
2. What is one thing you wouldn't want to live without?
Obviously my family comes to mind, but since the question is about a "thing", I'd say, my cell phone. I know it's totally non-spiritual but it's true...
3. Beach, Mountains, or Farm? Where would you live if you had a choice?
I'd like to say Beach, but only if I was retired there and didn't have to work. Although I love the beach, I'm not sure that I'd love it if I had it in my back yard all the time.
4. What's your least favorite chore/household duty?
I really hate vacuuming. Not sure why, but I do.
5. Who do people say you remind them of?
This is tough. I don't know that anyone says I remind them of someone in particular. More often, I've gotten the "You remind me of my best friend", so I guess that would have to be it.
6. Prefer parties and socializing or staying home with the fam?
Depends. As you know, I love my "MY" time, but I love being with my family and just hanging out.
7. What's your all time favorite movie?
Gosh, I don't know...I really like Love Actually. I watch it over and over every Christmas. Last year, I started wrapping gifts at a card table in my bedroom and would watch it while I wrapped. Makes wrapping go a lot faster.
8. Do you sleep in your make-up or remove it like a good little girl every night?
I really should remove it every night. Some evenings I do, but more often than not, I sleep in it. Of course, in my defense, I don't wear a lot of makeup to take off!
9. Do you have a hidden talent or a deep desire to learn something that you've never had a chance to learn? What is it?
No hidden talent that's for sure. I really wish I could play a instrument really well. I'd love to play in the church orchestra. And I wish I'd been blessed with a beautiful singing voice. I would love to sing on stage especially worship songs...I could totally get into that if I could keep from crying while singing!
10. What's one strange thing you're really good at?
Organizing? I do a good job at meal planning and grocery shopping etc. If you've ever been to my house, you know there is always a 2 week meal plan on my fridge...helps save money when shopping for groceries.
11. What first attracted you to your spouse?
Micah, Steve's daughter (my step-daughter). I fell in love with her long before I knew Steve. It was a total God-thing.
12. What is something you love to smell?
Fresh cut grass in the spring. Or the smell of coffee especially when it's cold out (though I'm not much of a coffee drinker).
13. Tell something about you that you know irritates people.
I totally overanalyze things and probably take things way too personally that aren't meant to be personal.
14. When you have extra money, what's the first thing you think to do with it?
Well, first I have to determine whether I have bills that need to be paid or a need that has to be met. Then I pretty much spend it on whatever.
15. Are you a silent laugher or a loud laugher? What makes you laugh the hardest?
Loud laugher and I get in trouble at work all the time for it. Genuinely funny people that crack themselves up make me laugh hardest. Watching Whose Line Is It Anyway? where the comedians get themselves tickled makes me laugh until I cry.
16. Where is your favorite place to shop?
Depends on what I'm shopping for. I hate clothes shopping because I'm obviously way bigger than I wish to be. Otherwise, I like Target or Hobby Lobby (for all my scrapbooking needs)...when I do have to shop for clothes, I love Kohls.
17. What's one thing you'd do more often if you had more time?
Hmmm...this is a toss up between scrapbooking and reading. Although if I could get caught up on my scrapbooking, I'd have more time to read.
18. Are you a big spender or frugal?
Frugal. I am stuck in the 90s and can't stand to pay more than $20 for any piece of clothing, pair of shoes or purse. I know...it just doesn't work these days. People who spend hundreds of dollars on shoes or purses...I just don't get that. Sorry if you are one of those people...I just can't see spending that kind of money on stuff...but I could see spending it at the scrapbook store. :) :) :)
19. Who is your favorite character of all time?
Character? I'm not sure I get this question. I don't think I have one.
20. Would you want to be famous?
No. No desire whatsoever. I'd like to be related to someone famous. Then I could say, "Oh, Brad Pitt is my brother in law" or "I roomed with Drew Barrymore in college"
1. What is your favorite thing to snack on while your blogging?
I don't usually snack while blogging...but if I am, probably something chocolate!
2. What is one thing you wouldn't want to live without?
Obviously my family comes to mind, but since the question is about a "thing", I'd say, my cell phone. I know it's totally non-spiritual but it's true...
3. Beach, Mountains, or Farm? Where would you live if you had a choice?
I'd like to say Beach, but only if I was retired there and didn't have to work. Although I love the beach, I'm not sure that I'd love it if I had it in my back yard all the time.
4. What's your least favorite chore/household duty?
I really hate vacuuming. Not sure why, but I do.
5. Who do people say you remind them of?
This is tough. I don't know that anyone says I remind them of someone in particular. More often, I've gotten the "You remind me of my best friend", so I guess that would have to be it.
6. Prefer parties and socializing or staying home with the fam?
Depends. As you know, I love my "MY" time, but I love being with my family and just hanging out.
7. What's your all time favorite movie?
Gosh, I don't know...I really like Love Actually. I watch it over and over every Christmas. Last year, I started wrapping gifts at a card table in my bedroom and would watch it while I wrapped. Makes wrapping go a lot faster.
8. Do you sleep in your make-up or remove it like a good little girl every night?
I really should remove it every night. Some evenings I do, but more often than not, I sleep in it. Of course, in my defense, I don't wear a lot of makeup to take off!
9. Do you have a hidden talent or a deep desire to learn something that you've never had a chance to learn? What is it?
No hidden talent that's for sure. I really wish I could play a instrument really well. I'd love to play in the church orchestra. And I wish I'd been blessed with a beautiful singing voice. I would love to sing on stage especially worship songs...I could totally get into that if I could keep from crying while singing!
10. What's one strange thing you're really good at?
Organizing? I do a good job at meal planning and grocery shopping etc. If you've ever been to my house, you know there is always a 2 week meal plan on my fridge...helps save money when shopping for groceries.
11. What first attracted you to your spouse?
Micah, Steve's daughter (my step-daughter). I fell in love with her long before I knew Steve. It was a total God-thing.
12. What is something you love to smell?
Fresh cut grass in the spring. Or the smell of coffee especially when it's cold out (though I'm not much of a coffee drinker).
13. Tell something about you that you know irritates people.
I totally overanalyze things and probably take things way too personally that aren't meant to be personal.
14. When you have extra money, what's the first thing you think to do with it?
Well, first I have to determine whether I have bills that need to be paid or a need that has to be met. Then I pretty much spend it on whatever.
15. Are you a silent laugher or a loud laugher? What makes you laugh the hardest?
Loud laugher and I get in trouble at work all the time for it. Genuinely funny people that crack themselves up make me laugh hardest. Watching Whose Line Is It Anyway? where the comedians get themselves tickled makes me laugh until I cry.
16. Where is your favorite place to shop?
Depends on what I'm shopping for. I hate clothes shopping because I'm obviously way bigger than I wish to be. Otherwise, I like Target or Hobby Lobby (for all my scrapbooking needs)...when I do have to shop for clothes, I love Kohls.
17. What's one thing you'd do more often if you had more time?
Hmmm...this is a toss up between scrapbooking and reading. Although if I could get caught up on my scrapbooking, I'd have more time to read.
18. Are you a big spender or frugal?
Frugal. I am stuck in the 90s and can't stand to pay more than $20 for any piece of clothing, pair of shoes or purse. I know...it just doesn't work these days. People who spend hundreds of dollars on shoes or purses...I just don't get that. Sorry if you are one of those people...I just can't see spending that kind of money on stuff...but I could see spending it at the scrapbook store. :) :) :)
19. Who is your favorite character of all time?
Character? I'm not sure I get this question. I don't think I have one.
20. Would you want to be famous?
No. No desire whatsoever. I'd like to be related to someone famous. Then I could say, "Oh, Brad Pitt is my brother in law" or "I roomed with Drew Barrymore in college"
10.28.2009
What are you gonna be for Halloween?
Jenna has chosen quite an unusual costume for this Halloween. We found it at Target. It's not a fairy, animal or kid superstar (Hannah Montana etc).
It is a person though...someone pretty well known...back in her day. Any guesses? I'll post pictures after Halloween. And I'll have a little something for anyone who guesses correctly. And for those of you that already know, you don't get to play. :)
It is a person though...someone pretty well known...back in her day. Any guesses? I'll post pictures after Halloween. And I'll have a little something for anyone who guesses correctly. And for those of you that already know, you don't get to play. :)
10.27.2009
Two Wheels!
While I was gone on my getaway weekend, Jenna had a red-letter weekend! First her fabulous report card, and then with this...
Some of you know that we've tried and tried for several summers to teach Jenna to ride her bike without training wheels. She has worn us out trying. We have taken the wheels off, raised them, and removed one training wheel. Nothing seemed to work. I was beginning to wonder if they made adult bikes with training wheels. Someone had recently recommended that I remove the pedals from the bike and let her coast until she learned. We just hadn't gotten around to that yet.
So on Saturday, Steve encouraged her to go outside to play with our neighbor's kids, Grey and Gage. Jenna is, age-wise, right in between both of them. Anyway, Grey apparently told Jenna just to "pedal".
And she did.
And now she can ride her bike without training wheels. Go figure. But I was super excited...I was sorry I missed the big event, but so glad she learned. Rachel put it best, it's like potty-training...when they are ready, it just happens despite all of our attempts to force it earlier. Wow...there's some deep thoughts in that comment, yes? Maybe for another day. :)
Some of you know that we've tried and tried for several summers to teach Jenna to ride her bike without training wheels. She has worn us out trying. We have taken the wheels off, raised them, and removed one training wheel. Nothing seemed to work. I was beginning to wonder if they made adult bikes with training wheels. Someone had recently recommended that I remove the pedals from the bike and let her coast until she learned. We just hadn't gotten around to that yet.
So on Saturday, Steve encouraged her to go outside to play with our neighbor's kids, Grey and Gage. Jenna is, age-wise, right in between both of them. Anyway, Grey apparently told Jenna just to "pedal".
And she did.
And now she can ride her bike without training wheels. Go figure. But I was super excited...I was sorry I missed the big event, but so glad she learned. Rachel put it best, it's like potty-training...when they are ready, it just happens despite all of our attempts to force it earlier. Wow...there's some deep thoughts in that comment, yes? Maybe for another day. :)
10.26.2009
Report Card Time!
I'm sure no one else cares as much as me about Jenna's grades, but I wanted to take an opportunity to brag on my girl just a bit.
She got her report card on Friday while I was scrapbooking and I went right online to see what the grades were. Being in 2nd grade, she's still on the E, S, N, U scale. Check it out:
Bible: E (a girl after my own heart...me being a former multi-year Bible award recipient)
Reading: S+
English: E
Writing: E
Spelling: E
Math: S+ (not the least bit surprising given my challenges in Math)
Science: E
Social Studies: E
I mean, seriously, this would be Honor Roll material if we were on that grading scale. But that's not even the best part. Get this...
You know how I'm a crazy reader. OK, maybe you don't know, but I am. If given a choice between anything and reading, reading would win almost every time (except in a showdown with scrapbooking and then who knows what would happen?!) Anyway, I sincerely believe that the love of reading, or at least the liking of reading is the bedrock to doing well in school. I honestly believe that. I think if a child learns to read well and likes it (not to mention loves it), they will overall do better in school. Obviously I haven't tested this theory, but you know...it's what I have observed in many cases.
Anyway, all that to say, at DLES, they have reading progress levels which have benchmarks to be reached at the end of each grade. For example, at the end of Kindergarten, children need to be at reading level "C". It's just kind of a guideline. Jenna's reading level skyrocketed at the end of last year and we worked really hard at reading over the summer. Many times over the summer, kids don't read as much and it's not uncommon for a child to drop a level or two during the first 9 weeks of school. I was anxious to see what level Jenna would come in at.
At the end of second grade, she needs to be at a reading level of "P". Well, I should have known not to worry because her guided reading level came back this time at "Q"!!! That means, she is already reading beyond where she needs to be when she FINISHES second grade! That just makes my heart sing!
So I just felt the need to brag on my little one. :) As for me, I had a rough night. I absolutely could not breathe which not only kept me awake, but Steve too. I had already taken 1/2 day today but I didn't get out of bed until 10:30. I lounged around the house trying to decide whether to go to work and ended up going. I was tired all day, but the meds seem to be working on my congestion. Hopefully I can get caught up on my much needed rest tonight and feel back to myself tomorrow.
Poor Rachel didn't fare as well. She has bronchitis. YUCK!
She got her report card on Friday while I was scrapbooking and I went right online to see what the grades were. Being in 2nd grade, she's still on the E, S, N, U scale. Check it out:
Bible: E (a girl after my own heart...me being a former multi-year Bible award recipient)
Reading: S+
English: E
Writing: E
Spelling: E
Math: S+ (not the least bit surprising given my challenges in Math)
Science: E
Social Studies: E
I mean, seriously, this would be Honor Roll material if we were on that grading scale. But that's not even the best part. Get this...
You know how I'm a crazy reader. OK, maybe you don't know, but I am. If given a choice between anything and reading, reading would win almost every time (except in a showdown with scrapbooking and then who knows what would happen?!) Anyway, I sincerely believe that the love of reading, or at least the liking of reading is the bedrock to doing well in school. I honestly believe that. I think if a child learns to read well and likes it (not to mention loves it), they will overall do better in school. Obviously I haven't tested this theory, but you know...it's what I have observed in many cases.
Anyway, all that to say, at DLES, they have reading progress levels which have benchmarks to be reached at the end of each grade. For example, at the end of Kindergarten, children need to be at reading level "C". It's just kind of a guideline. Jenna's reading level skyrocketed at the end of last year and we worked really hard at reading over the summer. Many times over the summer, kids don't read as much and it's not uncommon for a child to drop a level or two during the first 9 weeks of school. I was anxious to see what level Jenna would come in at.
At the end of second grade, she needs to be at a reading level of "P". Well, I should have known not to worry because her guided reading level came back this time at "Q"!!! That means, she is already reading beyond where she needs to be when she FINISHES second grade! That just makes my heart sing!
So I just felt the need to brag on my little one. :) As for me, I had a rough night. I absolutely could not breathe which not only kept me awake, but Steve too. I had already taken 1/2 day today but I didn't get out of bed until 10:30. I lounged around the house trying to decide whether to go to work and ended up going. I was tired all day, but the meds seem to be working on my congestion. Hopefully I can get caught up on my much needed rest tonight and feel back to myself tomorrow.
Poor Rachel didn't fare as well. She has bronchitis. YUCK!
10.25.2009
Scrapbook weekend
I said I'd try to be better about posting so here's my attempt...
This is one of my favorite weekends of the year. SCRAPBOOKING WEEKEND! Rachel and I left on Thursday afternoon for a state park just down the road a piece to hang out with about 18 other women who are as crazy about scrapbooking as we are.
There are two retreat weekends a year...one in October and one in March and I look forward to each of them for weeks before they get here. Thinking back to the first one I went to a couple years ago (has it been that long)...I thought I was a serious scrapper with my rolling tote and all my stickers etc. Well, you have never seen the likes of what some of these other women come with. When we first started, we stayed up until 11:00pm and thought we were pushing the limits. But these other women are hard core. Staying up until 3am almost EVERY night. And you know what? I'm one of them now.
Every spring and fall, Steve removes all the seats in my van (except the passenger seat (and driver, of course!) and by the time Rachel and I have finished loading up all our stuff, it's filled to the brim. I mean, I take two scrapbooking chairs also...and everything in my scrapbook room goes. And when we get there, it's like being "home" again. Back in the day, the retreats would start on Friday and I'd head out after work on Friday afternoon. Subsequent retreats, we'd move it up to only working 1/2 day on Friday. The day came when my consultant and retreat hostess opened it up an extra day so that we could arrive on Thursday afternoon and by that point, we jumped at the chance!
Now, Rachel and I have a standing lunch with some scrapbooking friends around 12:30 on Thursday (we now take the whole day off). Then we head out and get there right at the time it starts and we can check in our room. And we stay up until 1am or later just about every night. And we don't really sleep in. Most days we are in the room by 9am. Oh yes...it is one of the highlights of my year.
This year was just as wonderful and much anticipated. I managed to get a couple of Christmas gifts done (books I was making) and finally got caught up on Jenna's school album as actually into 2009 with her regular book. There's still lots to do, but these retreats give me the opportunity to really get going. Unfortnately, Rachel started getting congested last night and I woke up clogged up this morning. It is definitely allergies. Complicated with the wishy-washy weather and the fact we both got a flu shot on Wednesday of last week. Oh well...we rung out every last drop of the weekend we could. And now, we begin the countdown to March.
And for all you scrappers out there...this is NOT a closed group. You are totally invited to come. It's very economical...you have lots of space, a pretty decent room (for the few hours you are in it sleeping) and catered lunch and dinner for Friday and Saturday. Plus you get time away from the family to concentrate on getting your stuff done not to mention the really good company of people who like doing this as much as you do! If you are interested, the next retreat is in March...first weekend I think...let me know if you want more information and I will get it to you ASAP. If you live out of town, that's NO PROBLEM. We had 2 from Kentucky and one from south Alabama...they come from everywhere...Murfreesboro, Nashville and even my friend from MI, Becca, came one year...so start planning now and join the fun in March!
Thankfully, I take off 1/2 day on the Monday after scrapbook retreat weekend too. Usually I'm getting groceries, finishing laundry, unpacking etc. However, not sure how I will feel tomorrow...guess we'll see...I'm all drugged up on Actifed Allergy medicine and ready for a LONG night of sleep.
Later! (and sorry to all of you non-scrapbookers...I know this post was a huge bore to you all!!!)
This is one of my favorite weekends of the year. SCRAPBOOKING WEEKEND! Rachel and I left on Thursday afternoon for a state park just down the road a piece to hang out with about 18 other women who are as crazy about scrapbooking as we are.
There are two retreat weekends a year...one in October and one in March and I look forward to each of them for weeks before they get here. Thinking back to the first one I went to a couple years ago (has it been that long)...I thought I was a serious scrapper with my rolling tote and all my stickers etc. Well, you have never seen the likes of what some of these other women come with. When we first started, we stayed up until 11:00pm and thought we were pushing the limits. But these other women are hard core. Staying up until 3am almost EVERY night. And you know what? I'm one of them now.
Every spring and fall, Steve removes all the seats in my van (except the passenger seat (and driver, of course!) and by the time Rachel and I have finished loading up all our stuff, it's filled to the brim. I mean, I take two scrapbooking chairs also...and everything in my scrapbook room goes. And when we get there, it's like being "home" again. Back in the day, the retreats would start on Friday and I'd head out after work on Friday afternoon. Subsequent retreats, we'd move it up to only working 1/2 day on Friday. The day came when my consultant and retreat hostess opened it up an extra day so that we could arrive on Thursday afternoon and by that point, we jumped at the chance!
Now, Rachel and I have a standing lunch with some scrapbooking friends around 12:30 on Thursday (we now take the whole day off). Then we head out and get there right at the time it starts and we can check in our room. And we stay up until 1am or later just about every night. And we don't really sleep in. Most days we are in the room by 9am. Oh yes...it is one of the highlights of my year.
This year was just as wonderful and much anticipated. I managed to get a couple of Christmas gifts done (books I was making) and finally got caught up on Jenna's school album as actually into 2009 with her regular book. There's still lots to do, but these retreats give me the opportunity to really get going. Unfortnately, Rachel started getting congested last night and I woke up clogged up this morning. It is definitely allergies. Complicated with the wishy-washy weather and the fact we both got a flu shot on Wednesday of last week. Oh well...we rung out every last drop of the weekend we could. And now, we begin the countdown to March.
And for all you scrappers out there...this is NOT a closed group. You are totally invited to come. It's very economical...you have lots of space, a pretty decent room (for the few hours you are in it sleeping) and catered lunch and dinner for Friday and Saturday. Plus you get time away from the family to concentrate on getting your stuff done not to mention the really good company of people who like doing this as much as you do! If you are interested, the next retreat is in March...first weekend I think...let me know if you want more information and I will get it to you ASAP. If you live out of town, that's NO PROBLEM. We had 2 from Kentucky and one from south Alabama...they come from everywhere...Murfreesboro, Nashville and even my friend from MI, Becca, came one year...so start planning now and join the fun in March!
Thankfully, I take off 1/2 day on the Monday after scrapbook retreat weekend too. Usually I'm getting groceries, finishing laundry, unpacking etc. However, not sure how I will feel tomorrow...guess we'll see...I'm all drugged up on Actifed Allergy medicine and ready for a LONG night of sleep.
Later! (and sorry to all of you non-scrapbookers...I know this post was a huge bore to you all!!!)
A new blog design
I have been thinking for a while about a new blog design. But that is definitely NOT my forte. The Design Girl is giving away a free photo makeover for blogs. I would love to win this! If you are interested in getting in on the giveaway, click the button to the right of this post or just click here.
Good luck!
Good luck!
10.21.2009
The Potter and the Clay
OK, so I have been super-bad about blogging lately and I swore to myself I'd do a better job. I owe you (who are "you" BTW?!) a recap post of my weekend in Memphis with Rachel and Beth Moore and it's sitting in my blogger dashboard waiting to be finished. I want to add pictures and so that is the hold up. Yes, I've uploaded them, but then I never went back to finish the post.
And this post would not be here now except I have finally given up on finding what I was looking for to go with this. So, I'm posting without it because it's something that has been on my mind and I need to share.
The last several weeks at church the sermon series has been on...stewardship. I know, I know...so many of you (non-BBCers) are rolling your eyes now because who does that guilt-'em-till-they-give sermon better than us Baptists!? But this has been different. The series is titled "His." and it has been great! It has really put into perspective what all we have that belongs to Him. Not just our money, but our stuff.
So, in our small group time, our leader was talking about when he was a young person, seeing a potter come demonstrate the making of a clay pot. He told how the potter would spin the wheel so fast and throw water on the lump of clay and how he would beat this clay to mold it the way it needed to go. And at times, the potter would even tear off a big chunk of clay and throw it off to the side. Obviously, there was too much clay for what it was going to be made in to.
When I was in art class in high school, we had the opportunity to work with clay and let me tell you, it is NOT as easy as these folks make it look. The clay is really hard and it does take strength to mold it. And one wrong move with your hands can cause the clay to collapse on itself. I remember I was going to make a vase becase it couldn't be that hard. But it WAS hard. The clay was unruly and hard to mold...every time I tried to form it into the shape I wanted, one side would fall in. When I added too much water and it slung all over the place and made a huge mess of the piece because if you don't know, this job is MESSY!
It's no wonder why there are so many references in the Bible to God being the Potter and us being the clay. How often do we try to take the position of the potter with our own lives. We try to mold ourselves into what WE think we should be. We add too much "water" and generally make a huge mess of our lives. Why do we do that? Well, because it sometimes hurts when the Potter gets hold of us. It feels like we are being beaten down...ripped apart. But the Potter sees the whole picture...what the finished product is going to be. He knows when there's too much of us and some needs to be broken off. He knows exactly how much water to add and where to place His hands on our lives. And in the end, what started as nothing more than a lump of hard, unruly, ugly clay...
And this post would not be here now except I have finally given up on finding what I was looking for to go with this. So, I'm posting without it because it's something that has been on my mind and I need to share.
The last several weeks at church the sermon series has been on...stewardship. I know, I know...so many of you (non-BBCers) are rolling your eyes now because who does that guilt-'em-till-they-give sermon better than us Baptists!? But this has been different. The series is titled "His." and it has been great! It has really put into perspective what all we have that belongs to Him. Not just our money, but our stuff.
So, in our small group time, our leader was talking about when he was a young person, seeing a potter come demonstrate the making of a clay pot. He told how the potter would spin the wheel so fast and throw water on the lump of clay and how he would beat this clay to mold it the way it needed to go. And at times, the potter would even tear off a big chunk of clay and throw it off to the side. Obviously, there was too much clay for what it was going to be made in to.
When I was in art class in high school, we had the opportunity to work with clay and let me tell you, it is NOT as easy as these folks make it look. The clay is really hard and it does take strength to mold it. And one wrong move with your hands can cause the clay to collapse on itself. I remember I was going to make a vase becase it couldn't be that hard. But it WAS hard. The clay was unruly and hard to mold...every time I tried to form it into the shape I wanted, one side would fall in. When I added too much water and it slung all over the place and made a huge mess of the piece because if you don't know, this job is MESSY!
It's no wonder why there are so many references in the Bible to God being the Potter and us being the clay. How often do we try to take the position of the potter with our own lives. We try to mold ourselves into what WE think we should be. We add too much "water" and generally make a huge mess of our lives. Why do we do that? Well, because it sometimes hurts when the Potter gets hold of us. It feels like we are being beaten down...ripped apart. But the Potter sees the whole picture...what the finished product is going to be. He knows when there's too much of us and some needs to be broken off. He knows exactly how much water to add and where to place His hands on our lives. And in the end, what started as nothing more than a lump of hard, unruly, ugly clay...
"And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We all are formed by your hand."
Isaiah 64:8(NLT)
10.14.2009
Home...
My brother is home now. They have determined that he definitely had a stroke but it was a TIA, but it was one of the mildest that a person can have. There is nothing that could have really prevented it. The neurologist said that the numbness and tingling (which he likens to feeling like you arm is asleep) might take up to 24 months to cease and he might never regain the feeling. It's just one of those things.
At any rate, he's on some medications, off work for a bit and should have pretty minimal lasting damage.
Thanks for all your comments and prayers...
And just to clarify, this was David G., NOT David T (who is Steve's brother).
At any rate, he's on some medications, off work for a bit and should have pretty minimal lasting damage.
Thanks for all your comments and prayers...
And just to clarify, this was David G., NOT David T (who is Steve's brother).
Update on David
There's not much to report, but I did just call the hospital and David actually answered the phone.
He sounds just like always. He says he doesn't believe it's a stroke and no one has said for sure what it is or whether it was for sure. They've bascially been told nothing except they "think" it's a stroke or it looks like it is. He's had an MRI, ultrasound on his heart and neck and cat scan of the brain (they found one, go figure...we've always wondered! :) ) and no one told them how those tests came out. He is still feeling the same tingling and numbness as he did when he arrived. No better, no worse. He wonders if it's some kind of pinched nerve.
Someone entered the room after about 10 minutes of conversation, so he had to let me go. I told him to keep me posted and he said he would.
Continue to pray that whatever it is, it is minor and that it can be fixed easily. I've always been close to my brother and I am very concerned and worried for him.
Thanks for your prayers!
He sounds just like always. He says he doesn't believe it's a stroke and no one has said for sure what it is or whether it was for sure. They've bascially been told nothing except they "think" it's a stroke or it looks like it is. He's had an MRI, ultrasound on his heart and neck and cat scan of the brain (they found one, go figure...we've always wondered! :) ) and no one told them how those tests came out. He is still feeling the same tingling and numbness as he did when he arrived. No better, no worse. He wonders if it's some kind of pinched nerve.
Someone entered the room after about 10 minutes of conversation, so he had to let me go. I told him to keep me posted and he said he would.
Continue to pray that whatever it is, it is minor and that it can be fixed easily. I've always been close to my brother and I am very concerned and worried for him.
Thanks for your prayers!
Prayer Request
I know I owe like a huge update post and I have one started (I really do!), but can I ask for all of you to pray for my brother David today? Last night, he was taken to the hospital where they believe he had a stroke. He's only 51 years old but they do think they caught it very early on and they hope there is no to only minimal last damage. They have taken him for lots of testing and will know more as the day goes on. If you will just keep him and my sister in law, Judy, in your prayers, I'd appreciate it.
9.30.2009
A very late update
So many things to say and most of them are updates that are long overdue. We are still trying to get in the swing of being back in school.
Let's see...last week I went for my 1 month post-Lasik appointment. I am seeing almost 20/15. I'm definitely 20/20. If you have been considering Lasik then check into it NOW. I can highly recommend Loden Vision Centers, but I'm just a huge proponent of Lasik in general. It's been a virtual miracle for me.
Steve's not had one single bite on the resumes he's sent out. But thanks to my good friend from church, Leigh Ann, he has been working a temporary assignment for about 3 weeks now. And starting Monday, he will work a temporary job at the church 20 hours a week and then with Leigh Ann on the other days (for a while at least). So, we do have some money coming in and that is extremely useful! A HUGE shout-out to Leigh Ann for her help in employing my husband!!!!
Chase has graduated from military combat school and is now started his specialty training which diesel mechanics. He will hopefully be visiting in a couple weeks for a few days. MOS is like college, so he can use his phone when he's not in class or on duty, so if you have his number and want to, you can give him a call.
Jenna is doing well in school. 2nd grade is different than 1st and comes with a lot more personal responsibilty which is new for her. But after our fall parent-teacher conference, we find she is doing well. Of course, the one thing that she struggles with is T-A-L-K-I-N-G! Geez...I have no idea where she gets that.
Micah had a birthday yesterday so a huge birthday SHOUT OUT to her. 25 years old. Her comment was that she was 1/2 way to 50. All I know, it that makes me feel REALLY old! I met her when she was only 10, so this is certainly a milestone I'm happy to celebrate with her. My brown-eyed girl is all grown up!
As for me, I'm doing OK. Work is keeping me super busy and I'm always behind. A couple weekends ago, we were coming home from some friends' house and it was wet (big surprise). I had on some flip flops with pretty slick soles (I'd slipped several times before). Anyway, I got out of the truck and when my feet hit the garage floor, I slip and fell. My left knee took the full force of the fall. Of course, it was painful and swelled a little, but some ice and Ibuprofen, I was good. But as the weekend and week wore on, I knew something was wrong. X-rays showed nothing, but there is some popping and the doctor thinks I might have a torn meniscus. He has me doing home exercises, taking more Ibuprofen and icing it at night. Next week I go back and if it hasn't improved, it's off to an MRI I go. I can tell already that it's not getting better. By the end of the day, it is swollen very noticeably. OUCH!
That's really about it. Rach and I are going to Memphis to see Beth Moore next weekend and we are pretty excited about that. I say "we", but I guess I only speak for myself. :) In a few more weeks it will be our scrapbook retreat and I'm practically giddy about it already.
So, until I have more exciting things to share, over and out.
Let's see...last week I went for my 1 month post-Lasik appointment. I am seeing almost 20/15. I'm definitely 20/20. If you have been considering Lasik then check into it NOW. I can highly recommend Loden Vision Centers, but I'm just a huge proponent of Lasik in general. It's been a virtual miracle for me.
Steve's not had one single bite on the resumes he's sent out. But thanks to my good friend from church, Leigh Ann, he has been working a temporary assignment for about 3 weeks now. And starting Monday, he will work a temporary job at the church 20 hours a week and then with Leigh Ann on the other days (for a while at least). So, we do have some money coming in and that is extremely useful! A HUGE shout-out to Leigh Ann for her help in employing my husband!!!!
Chase has graduated from military combat school and is now started his specialty training which diesel mechanics. He will hopefully be visiting in a couple weeks for a few days. MOS is like college, so he can use his phone when he's not in class or on duty, so if you have his number and want to, you can give him a call.
Jenna is doing well in school. 2nd grade is different than 1st and comes with a lot more personal responsibilty which is new for her. But after our fall parent-teacher conference, we find she is doing well. Of course, the one thing that she struggles with is T-A-L-K-I-N-G! Geez...I have no idea where she gets that.
Micah had a birthday yesterday so a huge birthday SHOUT OUT to her. 25 years old. Her comment was that she was 1/2 way to 50. All I know, it that makes me feel REALLY old! I met her when she was only 10, so this is certainly a milestone I'm happy to celebrate with her. My brown-eyed girl is all grown up!
As for me, I'm doing OK. Work is keeping me super busy and I'm always behind. A couple weekends ago, we were coming home from some friends' house and it was wet (big surprise). I had on some flip flops with pretty slick soles (I'd slipped several times before). Anyway, I got out of the truck and when my feet hit the garage floor, I slip and fell. My left knee took the full force of the fall. Of course, it was painful and swelled a little, but some ice and Ibuprofen, I was good. But as the weekend and week wore on, I knew something was wrong. X-rays showed nothing, but there is some popping and the doctor thinks I might have a torn meniscus. He has me doing home exercises, taking more Ibuprofen and icing it at night. Next week I go back and if it hasn't improved, it's off to an MRI I go. I can tell already that it's not getting better. By the end of the day, it is swollen very noticeably. OUCH!
That's really about it. Rach and I are going to Memphis to see Beth Moore next weekend and we are pretty excited about that. I say "we", but I guess I only speak for myself. :) In a few more weeks it will be our scrapbook retreat and I'm practically giddy about it already.
So, until I have more exciting things to share, over and out.
9.24.2009
Please Vote!
If you have just a minute, could you please go out and vote for my friend Leigh Ann's sister? Her name is Jennie and she has Cystic Fibrosis and would greatly benefit from this scholarship...
If you are willing, please click on this link and vote for Jennie so that she can get a scholarship to help with Belmont University bills. This is a scholarship that was created to honor young adults with Cystic Fibrosis as they pursue goals of post-high school . It's so easy to vote and you can do it all 3 ways. It will take maybe 30 seconds to do all three. I know Leigh Ann and Jennie would love your support.
Click HERE to support Jennie!
Thanks!
If you are willing, please click on this link and vote for Jennie so that she can get a scholarship to help with Belmont University bills. This is a scholarship that was created to honor young adults with Cystic Fibrosis as they pursue goals of post-high school . It's so easy to vote and you can do it all 3 ways. It will take maybe 30 seconds to do all three. I know Leigh Ann and Jennie would love your support.
Click HERE to support Jennie!
Thanks!
9.14.2009
Another Book Review: Stray Affections
It's been a while since I've done a book review, so I figured it was time...
In Stray Affections, the last thing that Cassandra expects out of her Sunday is to be mesmerized at a collectors’ convention by a snowglobe. She’s enjoying some shopping time, with husband Ken at home tending their brood of four young boys, when she’s utterly charmed by the one-of-a kind globe containing figures of three dogs and a little girl with hair the color of her own. She can’t resist taking the unique globe home—even if means wrestling another shopper for it!
The beautiful snowglobe sparks long-dormant memories for Cassie, of her beloved Grandpa Wonky, the stray she rescued as a child, and the painful roots of her combative relationship with her mother, “Bad Betty” Kamrowski. Life in Wanonishaw, Minnesota is never dull, though, and Cassie keeps the recollections at bay, busy balancing her boys, her home daycare operation, and being a good friend to best pal Margret. But after a strange—flurrious, as Cassie deems it—moment happens with the remarkable snowglobe, Cassie and the people she loves are swirled into a tumultuous, yet grace-filled, and life-changing journey.
The author, Charlene Ann Baumbich is a popular author and speaker and an award-winning journalist. In addition to her Dearest Dorothy series of novels, she has written seven nonfiction books of humor and inspiration. A bungee-jumping, once motorcycle-owning grandma and unabashed dog lover, Charlene lives with her husband and rescued dog Kornflake in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She loves telling stories, laughing whenever possible, and considers herself a Wild Child of God.
This is a must read! I have a copy to give away. If you are interested, please leave me a comment or send an email to Sandras_junk@charter.net by Friday, 9/18 at 5pm. I'll draw sometime during the weekend.
Also, for your enjoyment, here is a video link of Charlene introducing the book. The video is available on facebook and/or YouTube.
And as always, if you would like to purchase your very own copy of Stray Affections, you can do so here.
In Stray Affections, the last thing that Cassandra expects out of her Sunday is to be mesmerized at a collectors’ convention by a snowglobe. She’s enjoying some shopping time, with husband Ken at home tending their brood of four young boys, when she’s utterly charmed by the one-of-a kind globe containing figures of three dogs and a little girl with hair the color of her own. She can’t resist taking the unique globe home—even if means wrestling another shopper for it!
The beautiful snowglobe sparks long-dormant memories for Cassie, of her beloved Grandpa Wonky, the stray she rescued as a child, and the painful roots of her combative relationship with her mother, “Bad Betty” Kamrowski. Life in Wanonishaw, Minnesota is never dull, though, and Cassie keeps the recollections at bay, busy balancing her boys, her home daycare operation, and being a good friend to best pal Margret. But after a strange—flurrious, as Cassie deems it—moment happens with the remarkable snowglobe, Cassie and the people she loves are swirled into a tumultuous, yet grace-filled, and life-changing journey.
The author, Charlene Ann Baumbich is a popular author and speaker and an award-winning journalist. In addition to her Dearest Dorothy series of novels, she has written seven nonfiction books of humor and inspiration. A bungee-jumping, once motorcycle-owning grandma and unabashed dog lover, Charlene lives with her husband and rescued dog Kornflake in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She loves telling stories, laughing whenever possible, and considers herself a Wild Child of God.
This is a must read! I have a copy to give away. If you are interested, please leave me a comment or send an email to Sandras_junk@charter.net by Friday, 9/18 at 5pm. I'll draw sometime during the weekend.
Also, for your enjoyment, here is a video link of Charlene introducing the book. The video is available on facebook and/or YouTube.
And as always, if you would like to purchase your very own copy of Stray Affections, you can do so here.
9.11.2009
The Prodigal Returns Home and other happenings...
Just wanted to give you a few quick updates on us...
Steve is working a temporary job right now with our good friend from church (thanks LA!). He's worked all week and he is loving it even though it's just stuffing envelopes. He is definitely not a stay at home dad, though I love that he's been home. I'm sure it won't be long until I will love the money he's making more! He has sent out a bunch of resumes, but I'll tell you, there's not even been the slightest nibble...but that's to be expected I guess. He isn't discouraged because we knew this would be hard going into it. We have definitely made some budget adjustments and are living quite differently from before.
On a separate note for those of you not on Facebook...MITTENS CAME HOME! Yes, friends, you read that right! Let's see...it was Wednesday night and uncharacteristically, Jenna had some math homework and I needed to pay bills. So Jenna and I were both sitting at the kitchen table. Steve decided that even though it was 8:15 and dark, he would take Katie for a walk while we finished up. They were only gone about a minute when I heard the door open again. I was just about to say, "Well, that was quick" when around the corner Steve came smiling from ear to ear and holding Mittens!!! I really don't remember what Steve said other than "Look!" because Jenna and I had jumped up and run to him hollering and screaming etc. Steve was absolutely speechless I think! Mittens was "talking" quite a bit, but he seemed no worse for the wear. Because he is long haired, he had one big hair mat and a couple smaller ones, but other than that, seemed fine. He was starving and I can tell he's thinner when I pick him up but the hair covers up the weight loss. Anyway, he is back to his old self though he's quite a bit more loving these days and does not like to be out of our sight. We are so happy to have him back and feel our family is complete again.
That same night, as if the return of our missing kitty wasn't exciting enough, Jenna started hollering from the bathroom. Apparently, she saw something that worried her...sparing you all the details, turns out she has a "severe" bladder infection. She's on a very strong antibiotic, but the sad thing is that her infection is so severe that most times she cannot hold her bladder. So there have been several accidents over the past few days. I finally went out tonight and bought her some "GoodNites" so we don't have to worry about it for a while. By Monday, the antibiotics should have gotten into her system and she should be feeling better. She ran a low grade fever last weekend which we were afraid was the flu, but since it stayed so low grade and she'd been having some allergy issues, we figured it was because of those allergies. We now know it was most likely caused by her body fighting this infection. Anyway, she's been pretty devastated and you have no idea how it breaks my heart to hear her say she asked a teacher if she could use the bathroom and they say no causing her to have an accident. This happened at church and several times at school. I've tried to talk to the teachers at school (her teacher is very aware), but sometimes word just doesn't get all the way around.
Speaking of school, we had our parent teacher conference this morning. Jenna is doing very well in school. Her reading level is "very strong" and she's doing pretty well. Her "problem" is that she is a little "mother" so she's more worried about whether everyone else is doing what they should be which in turn means SHE'S not doing what she should be! And of course, the inevitable, "talks too much" which I have NO IDEA where that comes from!!! But her teacher was very careful to put positive spins on each of these things. She said these issues were common, not as bad as say learning disabilities and that this strong willed tendency will make her a very good leader/teacher as long as that stubborness is redirected appropriately.
So that's our story of the last week. Pretty exciting stuff going on. Chase is doing well in combat training (as far as we know). Tomorrow is a hopefully low key Saturday with just a few things to get done.
Right now, I'm off to bed..
Steve is working a temporary job right now with our good friend from church (thanks LA!). He's worked all week and he is loving it even though it's just stuffing envelopes. He is definitely not a stay at home dad, though I love that he's been home. I'm sure it won't be long until I will love the money he's making more! He has sent out a bunch of resumes, but I'll tell you, there's not even been the slightest nibble...but that's to be expected I guess. He isn't discouraged because we knew this would be hard going into it. We have definitely made some budget adjustments and are living quite differently from before.
On a separate note for those of you not on Facebook...MITTENS CAME HOME! Yes, friends, you read that right! Let's see...it was Wednesday night and uncharacteristically, Jenna had some math homework and I needed to pay bills. So Jenna and I were both sitting at the kitchen table. Steve decided that even though it was 8:15 and dark, he would take Katie for a walk while we finished up. They were only gone about a minute when I heard the door open again. I was just about to say, "Well, that was quick" when around the corner Steve came smiling from ear to ear and holding Mittens!!! I really don't remember what Steve said other than "Look!" because Jenna and I had jumped up and run to him hollering and screaming etc. Steve was absolutely speechless I think! Mittens was "talking" quite a bit, but he seemed no worse for the wear. Because he is long haired, he had one big hair mat and a couple smaller ones, but other than that, seemed fine. He was starving and I can tell he's thinner when I pick him up but the hair covers up the weight loss. Anyway, he is back to his old self though he's quite a bit more loving these days and does not like to be out of our sight. We are so happy to have him back and feel our family is complete again.
That same night, as if the return of our missing kitty wasn't exciting enough, Jenna started hollering from the bathroom. Apparently, she saw something that worried her...sparing you all the details, turns out she has a "severe" bladder infection. She's on a very strong antibiotic, but the sad thing is that her infection is so severe that most times she cannot hold her bladder. So there have been several accidents over the past few days. I finally went out tonight and bought her some "GoodNites" so we don't have to worry about it for a while. By Monday, the antibiotics should have gotten into her system and she should be feeling better. She ran a low grade fever last weekend which we were afraid was the flu, but since it stayed so low grade and she'd been having some allergy issues, we figured it was because of those allergies. We now know it was most likely caused by her body fighting this infection. Anyway, she's been pretty devastated and you have no idea how it breaks my heart to hear her say she asked a teacher if she could use the bathroom and they say no causing her to have an accident. This happened at church and several times at school. I've tried to talk to the teachers at school (her teacher is very aware), but sometimes word just doesn't get all the way around.
Speaking of school, we had our parent teacher conference this morning. Jenna is doing very well in school. Her reading level is "very strong" and she's doing pretty well. Her "problem" is that she is a little "mother" so she's more worried about whether everyone else is doing what they should be which in turn means SHE'S not doing what she should be! And of course, the inevitable, "talks too much" which I have NO IDEA where that comes from!!! But her teacher was very careful to put positive spins on each of these things. She said these issues were common, not as bad as say learning disabilities and that this strong willed tendency will make her a very good leader/teacher as long as that stubborness is redirected appropriately.
So that's our story of the last week. Pretty exciting stuff going on. Chase is doing well in combat training (as far as we know). Tomorrow is a hopefully low key Saturday with just a few things to get done.
Right now, I'm off to bed..
9.03.2009
This is what happens when you send Daddy to the salon with daughter for a "trim".
Yep, it's ALL gone. In the span of 8 short months, we went from hair down the back to chin length. Those who know me, know I am a long hair person, so this was a big shock to me. I think she's cute though. Of course, I would think that no matter what haircut she has. And she LOVES it. And loves the attention she's getting from it.
No more updates on Mittens...3 sightings (supposedly) in one day, but none of them OURS!
Chase is doing well at combat training. For those that are interested, you can drop him a line at:
PFC Taylor, Steven C.
SOI East MCT BN India Co.
PSC Box 20161
Camp Lejeune, NC 28542
No luck for Steve in the job search...
Oh and one last thing, if you think of it, will you pray for my friend Kelly and his family? He is about to lose his mom (if she hasn't already passed) and I know his heart is breaking. He is a Believer and he knows intimately the One who can heal all hurts, but sometimes that sentiment doesn't ease the pain at the moment. So if you think about it, send up a prayer for what they are going through about about to go through.
Yep, it's ALL gone. In the span of 8 short months, we went from hair down the back to chin length. Those who know me, know I am a long hair person, so this was a big shock to me. I think she's cute though. Of course, I would think that no matter what haircut she has. And she LOVES it. And loves the attention she's getting from it.No more updates on Mittens...3 sightings (supposedly) in one day, but none of them OURS!
Chase is doing well at combat training. For those that are interested, you can drop him a line at:
PFC Taylor, Steven C.
SOI East MCT BN India Co.
PSC Box 20161
Camp Lejeune, NC 28542
No luck for Steve in the job search...
Oh and one last thing, if you think of it, will you pray for my friend Kelly and his family? He is about to lose his mom (if she hasn't already passed) and I know his heart is breaking. He is a Believer and he knows intimately the One who can heal all hurts, but sometimes that sentiment doesn't ease the pain at the moment. So if you think about it, send up a prayer for what they are going through about about to go through.
9.01.2009
What Do I Know of Holy?
I heard this song a few days ago and it really spoke to me. I thought I'd share the lyrics here.
What Do I Know of Holy
Addison Road
I made You promises a thousand times
I tried to hear from Heaven
But I talked the whole time
I think I made You too small
I never feared You at all No
If You touched my face would I know You?
Looked into my eyes could I behold You?
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?
I guess I thought that I had figured You out
I knew all the stories and I learned to talk about
How You were mighty to save
Those were only empty words on a page
Then I caught a glimpse of who You might be
The slightest hint of You brought me down to my knees
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of wounds that will heal my shame?
And a God who gave life "its" name?
What do I know of Holy?
Of the One who the angels praise?
All creation knows Your name
On earth and heaven above
What do I know of this love?
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?
Nothing. Nothing at all.
I have been spending more time in the Word and in prayer the last few weeks. I hate to admit that I've beefed up my time with Him simply when my life got rough, but it's true. But in the midst of that, I have heard Him through so many different avenues.
The bottom line is this: Our family needs prayer. We have been beat up this year and over the past 18 months. On the outside, we put on a happy face, but inside we are hurting. Please pray for one thing...that through this time, we would not allow Satan to get a foothold in our lives. That comes in different forms for each of us (even Jenna). Just remember us in your prayers. And remember...
What do we know of Holy?
What Do I Know of Holy
Addison Road
I made You promises a thousand times
I tried to hear from Heaven
But I talked the whole time
I think I made You too small
I never feared You at all No
If You touched my face would I know You?
Looked into my eyes could I behold You?
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?
I guess I thought that I had figured You out
I knew all the stories and I learned to talk about
How You were mighty to save
Those were only empty words on a page
Then I caught a glimpse of who You might be
The slightest hint of You brought me down to my knees
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of wounds that will heal my shame?
And a God who gave life "its" name?
What do I know of Holy?
Of the One who the angels praise?
All creation knows Your name
On earth and heaven above
What do I know of this love?
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?
Nothing. Nothing at all.
I have been spending more time in the Word and in prayer the last few weeks. I hate to admit that I've beefed up my time with Him simply when my life got rough, but it's true. But in the midst of that, I have heard Him through so many different avenues.
The bottom line is this: Our family needs prayer. We have been beat up this year and over the past 18 months. On the outside, we put on a happy face, but inside we are hurting. Please pray for one thing...that through this time, we would not allow Satan to get a foothold in our lives. That comes in different forms for each of us (even Jenna). Just remember us in your prayers. And remember...
What do we know of Holy?
8.29.2009
Update
Just wanted to give a quick update on Mittens...we have NOT had any luck this week. We did locate a grey and white cat that some neighbors spotted but it was most definitely not Mittens. We have seen this cat several times now in the same area our neighbor thought he saw Mittens so we believe he probably never really saw Mittens, but this cat.
At this point, we are thinking he is not in the area and probably never was. I honestly don't know what might have happened to him unless someone picked him up with the intention of keeping him and went out of the area. Someone has removed all our missing signs so I'm thinking maybe it's a sign that it's time to move on. I'll always wonder what happened to him, but I guess it's time to stop expecting him to show up. Maybe he will. I've heard many stories about cats that show up weeks after going missing. I guess we'll see.
Well, I am skipping my scrapbook day today to get this house cleaned. Call it "Fall Cleaning" but that's what is on the agenda for today. Wish me luck!
At this point, we are thinking he is not in the area and probably never was. I honestly don't know what might have happened to him unless someone picked him up with the intention of keeping him and went out of the area. Someone has removed all our missing signs so I'm thinking maybe it's a sign that it's time to move on. I'll always wonder what happened to him, but I guess it's time to stop expecting him to show up. Maybe he will. I've heard many stories about cats that show up weeks after going missing. I guess we'll see.
Well, I am skipping my scrapbook day today to get this house cleaned. Call it "Fall Cleaning" but that's what is on the agenda for today. Wish me luck!
8.26.2009
Sight, Seeing and Eyes
You may be wondering what in the world the title of my post means. Well, I have 3 things to tell you and they are all related as you will see (no pun intended).
First of all, there has been a Mittens sighting!!! It's just a sighting and it wasn't us, but someone saw our fliers over in the adjoining neighborhood and called this morning. He said there is a grey and white cat that has been hanging around his neighbor's fish pond the last few days. Steve immediately went over there and of course, couldn't find anything but talked to the guy and he said that the cat is usually out there about 9am in the morning and sometimes in the evenings. From his description, it appears to be Mittens! We are trying not to get our hopes up, but it's very hard. To think he is alive and as close as the next neighborhood makes me very happy. Steve is on his way home now with Jenna and we are going out there to look. Wish us luck!
In other news, I went for my follow-up exam from my LASIK surgery today. It can take up to a month for your vision to reach it's final resting point so to speak and it can fluctuate in between. I've been trying to test my eyesight with everything and I was quite disappointed that my left eye (the worst one) didn't seem to be at 20/20. Today I was prepared for the official disappointment. Much to my surprise, my right eye is not 20/20...it's 20/15! Better than normal!!!! My left eye (that troublemaker eye!) is "slightly better than 20/20, but not quite 20/15". HOLY COW. People. I went from legally blind (not blonde) without my glasses or contacts to 20/15! I'm here to tell you...if you are like me, LASIK is for you! And I'd highly recommend Dr. James Loden! I have some pictures I want to share, but that can come later...
Now, for the last thing...as you know, my Chase graduated Marine Boot Camp a few weeks ago. He's now gone back to NC to do his MCT (military combat training) and his job training. He'll be gone another 3-4 months, hopefully home by Christmas. At any rate, we did get his "formal" pictures and we were very pleased. This is my little 6 year old stepson, all grown up.
Talk about a sight for sore eyes....Mmmhmmm...I know. All you single women understand, you have to go through me to get to him right? A co-worker said to me last week, "There is just something about a man in uniform that makes me weak in the knees." Yes, I know. And I couldn't be more proud!
First of all, there has been a Mittens sighting!!! It's just a sighting and it wasn't us, but someone saw our fliers over in the adjoining neighborhood and called this morning. He said there is a grey and white cat that has been hanging around his neighbor's fish pond the last few days. Steve immediately went over there and of course, couldn't find anything but talked to the guy and he said that the cat is usually out there about 9am in the morning and sometimes in the evenings. From his description, it appears to be Mittens! We are trying not to get our hopes up, but it's very hard. To think he is alive and as close as the next neighborhood makes me very happy. Steve is on his way home now with Jenna and we are going out there to look. Wish us luck!
In other news, I went for my follow-up exam from my LASIK surgery today. It can take up to a month for your vision to reach it's final resting point so to speak and it can fluctuate in between. I've been trying to test my eyesight with everything and I was quite disappointed that my left eye (the worst one) didn't seem to be at 20/20. Today I was prepared for the official disappointment. Much to my surprise, my right eye is not 20/20...it's 20/15! Better than normal!!!! My left eye (that troublemaker eye!) is "slightly better than 20/20, but not quite 20/15". HOLY COW. People. I went from legally blind (not blonde) without my glasses or contacts to 20/15! I'm here to tell you...if you are like me, LASIK is for you! And I'd highly recommend Dr. James Loden! I have some pictures I want to share, but that can come later...
Now, for the last thing...as you know, my Chase graduated Marine Boot Camp a few weeks ago. He's now gone back to NC to do his MCT (military combat training) and his job training. He'll be gone another 3-4 months, hopefully home by Christmas. At any rate, we did get his "formal" pictures and we were very pleased. This is my little 6 year old stepson, all grown up.
Talk about a sight for sore eyes....Mmmhmmm...I know. All you single women understand, you have to go through me to get to him right? A co-worker said to me last week, "There is just something about a man in uniform that makes me weak in the knees." Yes, I know. And I couldn't be more proud!
8.24.2009
Missing Family Member
Last night after returning from church, we realized we were missing our "baby" cat, Mittens. After canvassing the house, we figured he slipped out without us knowing when the door was open at some point on Saturday afternoon.
Steve is going to spend the day looking and putting up signs, but if you live in the area, will you please be on the lookout for Mittens? He has no front claws and no collar (because he has always stayed inside) and we are all heartbroken that he is missing.
If you happen to see him, THINK you see him or actually catch him, contact me or Steve immediately. You will truly be our hero.
Thanks!
Steve is going to spend the day looking and putting up signs, but if you live in the area, will you please be on the lookout for Mittens? He has no front claws and no collar (because he has always stayed inside) and we are all heartbroken that he is missing.
If you happen to see him, THINK you see him or actually catch him, contact me or Steve immediately. You will truly be our hero.
Thanks!
8.21.2009
I can see clearly now the rain is gone....
Today was a big day for me...I took the leap. The LASIK leap.
I have been thinking about this for a while now and at my last annual eye visit, I figured it was now or never. I wanted to have it while I was still young enough to enjoy life without any glasses (including reading).
I researched a couple of doctors, did a couple free consultations and settled on James Loden of Loden Vision Centers. He came highly recommended by my friend Leigh Ann. And I was not disappointed.
I arrived today at noon and they took me right back. After a few minutes for the sedative to take effect, I was on my way to the laser room. The whole procedure took about 8 minutes. The minute I sat up I could already see better even though it was a little blurry. We came home and I rested. When I woke up, I could see even better! For someone as blind as I was, this is a miracle. About 20 minutes after I woke up, the phone rang and guess who it was? Dr. James Loden! Calling to check on me after surgery. NICE TOUCH.
Anyway, I go back tomorrow morning for a follow up appointment and I should be able to see close to 20/20 by even then. I'll let you know.
I have some beautiful goggles...reminds me of someone...
I have been thinking about this for a while now and at my last annual eye visit, I figured it was now or never. I wanted to have it while I was still young enough to enjoy life without any glasses (including reading).
I researched a couple of doctors, did a couple free consultations and settled on James Loden of Loden Vision Centers. He came highly recommended by my friend Leigh Ann. And I was not disappointed.
I arrived today at noon and they took me right back. After a few minutes for the sedative to take effect, I was on my way to the laser room. The whole procedure took about 8 minutes. The minute I sat up I could already see better even though it was a little blurry. We came home and I rested. When I woke up, I could see even better! For someone as blind as I was, this is a miracle. About 20 minutes after I woke up, the phone rang and guess who it was? Dr. James Loden! Calling to check on me after surgery. NICE TOUCH.
Anyway, I go back tomorrow morning for a follow up appointment and I should be able to see close to 20/20 by even then. I'll let you know.
I have some beautiful goggles...reminds me of someone...
8.18.2009
My Military Man...
OK, I'm really here to blog about our trip to Parris Island to see Chase this past weekend, but first, let's get this nasty lay-off stuff out of the way.
Steve's company has been laying off people for months. This month, they laid off 7. Yesterday, they let 2 go and one of those was Steve. The question I am getting is, "Does this have anything to do with the dog?" And my answer is, "I don't really know" and I might never know. Honestly, we figured this was coming sooner or later. There's not many employees left at the company and there was some drama last week which ended with the company losing their biggest client.
Steve and I both have an indescribable peace about this. We have prayed for years (no exaggeration) for God to give Steve a new job and the answer has always been "No". So now He has answered...just not in the way we'd hoped. I am reading the Chronological Bible again this year and I'm about a month behind (darn summer!). I'm desperately trying to catch up and am in Isaiah. This morning there were three verses that really stood out to me. I want to share them with you:
But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you.
O Israel, the one who formed you says,
“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.
I have called you by name; you are mine.
2 When you go through deep waters,
I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
you will not be burned up;
the flames will not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Isaiah 43:1-3a
18 “But forget all that—
it is nothing compared to what I am going to do.
19 For I am about to do something new.
See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?
I will make a pathway through the wilderness.
I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.
Isaiah 43:18-19
and finally...
11 This is what the Lord says—
the Holy One of Israel and your Creator:
“Do you question what I do for my children?
Do you give me orders about the work of my hands?
12 I am the one who made the earth
and created people to live on it.
With my hands I stretched out the heavens.
All the stars are at my command.
Isaiah 45:11-12
So, basically He said to me, "I got your back", "I'm about to do something AWESOME and hey, I'm already working this out to My glory" and most importantly, "Who are you to question what I'm doing?" I'm so thrilled when God shows up so obviously.
I've received many comments, calls, emails and offers of help. To those of you who want to know what Steve can/wants to do the answer is he has spent his entire career in the printing business, however, with the Green movement and so many folks going paperless, I'm not sure the smartest move is staying in the printing business. We are working on updating his resume (which was pretty updated already) so if you want it to pass along, just shoot me an email and I'll forward it to you complete with references etc. I'm happy to tell you a little about what he has done in the past, but right now, I want to share some pictures with you of our little trip to Parris Island...
We were due to fly out of Nashville at 5:11 on Wednesday, but our flight was delayed by almost 90 minutes. What that meant was that we would miss our connecting flight in Atlanta. We went ahead and changed our flight out of Atlanta. The earliest flight we could get out of Atlanta was 10:30pm. We got to the Atlanta airport right on time but then our flight out was delayed and so we didn't fly out of there until nearly midnight. We had almost an hour drive from Savannah to Beaufort in the rain. Finally we got to the hotel and in bed at 2am.
That wouldn't have been so bad except for the fact that we had to be up at 4:00am in order to get to the base in time for the motivational run and catch our first glimpse of Chase in 3 months. We did pick him out of the platoon of like 70+ and watched as they ran. At about 9:30, they marched into the All Weather Facility and in about 30 minutes we had a joyous reunion! We were so excited to see him...especially Jenna...and he looked SO GOOD! We enjoyed a picnic lunch and a tour of the facility and then a second lunch (for Chase) before he had to go back at 2:30.
Friday morning we had to get there by 7am in order to get a spot for graduation. They usually make a big production of raising the flags, but it was canceled on Friday because of the MONSOON! I mean, it was raining so hard. And of course, all I had on were flip flops. And there, the area is so flat, water pools in PONDS that you could swim in. We had to sit in the very stuffy, crowded gym for 2 hours before they started. NOT FUN. But the wait was worth it. The men (no more boys) all looked so sharp in their dress uniforms. I mean...if you are single, I'd recommend going to a Marine graduation...plenty of fine looking men to choose from there!
Anyway, we did a quick stop at the MPX (the Marine Wal-Mart) and then took Chase to Applebees for lunch. That is where we had to part ways because we had a flight to catch and they (Chase with is mom and step-dad) were driving to the beach for a day or two.
What's next? He's home for now. Monday he leaves again for Camp Geiger (NC) for Marine Combat Training for about 4 weeks. From there, he will go straight to is job training (also in NC) for 3 months. He might be done in time for Christmas. Boy do I hope so. You don't realize how much you miss someone until you can't talk to or see them for 3 months! Chase came to eat lunch with me at work today and he was a hit. Everyone was talking about how good he looked in his uniform after. I should get his dress blues pictures tomorrow. When I do, I'll scan one and post it.
He did say that he kept EVERY letter and card he received and he got many that he didn't know who it was that was sending them. But he appreciated every one. And Steve and I appreciated each of you that sent something. I'm sure he'll be a little homesick while he's gone in the next few months but I think he'll have email access, so when I find out for sure I'll post his email address (with his permission) so you can send him encouraging notes there too.
Without further ado...
(and most of these were on Facebook, so if you are my friend there, they will be duplicates)...
Steve's company has been laying off people for months. This month, they laid off 7. Yesterday, they let 2 go and one of those was Steve. The question I am getting is, "Does this have anything to do with the dog?" And my answer is, "I don't really know" and I might never know. Honestly, we figured this was coming sooner or later. There's not many employees left at the company and there was some drama last week which ended with the company losing their biggest client.
Steve and I both have an indescribable peace about this. We have prayed for years (no exaggeration) for God to give Steve a new job and the answer has always been "No". So now He has answered...just not in the way we'd hoped. I am reading the Chronological Bible again this year and I'm about a month behind (darn summer!). I'm desperately trying to catch up and am in Isaiah. This morning there were three verses that really stood out to me. I want to share them with you:
But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you.
O Israel, the one who formed you says,
“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.
I have called you by name; you are mine.
2 When you go through deep waters,
I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
you will not be burned up;
the flames will not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Isaiah 43:1-3a
18 “But forget all that—
it is nothing compared to what I am going to do.
19 For I am about to do something new.
See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?
I will make a pathway through the wilderness.
I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.
Isaiah 43:18-19
and finally...
11 This is what the Lord says—
the Holy One of Israel and your Creator:
“Do you question what I do for my children?
Do you give me orders about the work of my hands?
12 I am the one who made the earth
and created people to live on it.
With my hands I stretched out the heavens.
All the stars are at my command.
Isaiah 45:11-12
So, basically He said to me, "I got your back", "I'm about to do something AWESOME and hey, I'm already working this out to My glory" and most importantly, "Who are you to question what I'm doing?" I'm so thrilled when God shows up so obviously.
I've received many comments, calls, emails and offers of help. To those of you who want to know what Steve can/wants to do the answer is he has spent his entire career in the printing business, however, with the Green movement and so many folks going paperless, I'm not sure the smartest move is staying in the printing business. We are working on updating his resume (which was pretty updated already) so if you want it to pass along, just shoot me an email and I'll forward it to you complete with references etc. I'm happy to tell you a little about what he has done in the past, but right now, I want to share some pictures with you of our little trip to Parris Island...
We were due to fly out of Nashville at 5:11 on Wednesday, but our flight was delayed by almost 90 minutes. What that meant was that we would miss our connecting flight in Atlanta. We went ahead and changed our flight out of Atlanta. The earliest flight we could get out of Atlanta was 10:30pm. We got to the Atlanta airport right on time but then our flight out was delayed and so we didn't fly out of there until nearly midnight. We had almost an hour drive from Savannah to Beaufort in the rain. Finally we got to the hotel and in bed at 2am.
That wouldn't have been so bad except for the fact that we had to be up at 4:00am in order to get to the base in time for the motivational run and catch our first glimpse of Chase in 3 months. We did pick him out of the platoon of like 70+ and watched as they ran. At about 9:30, they marched into the All Weather Facility and in about 30 minutes we had a joyous reunion! We were so excited to see him...especially Jenna...and he looked SO GOOD! We enjoyed a picnic lunch and a tour of the facility and then a second lunch (for Chase) before he had to go back at 2:30.
Friday morning we had to get there by 7am in order to get a spot for graduation. They usually make a big production of raising the flags, but it was canceled on Friday because of the MONSOON! I mean, it was raining so hard. And of course, all I had on were flip flops. And there, the area is so flat, water pools in PONDS that you could swim in. We had to sit in the very stuffy, crowded gym for 2 hours before they started. NOT FUN. But the wait was worth it. The men (no more boys) all looked so sharp in their dress uniforms. I mean...if you are single, I'd recommend going to a Marine graduation...plenty of fine looking men to choose from there!
Anyway, we did a quick stop at the MPX (the Marine Wal-Mart) and then took Chase to Applebees for lunch. That is where we had to part ways because we had a flight to catch and they (Chase with is mom and step-dad) were driving to the beach for a day or two.
What's next? He's home for now. Monday he leaves again for Camp Geiger (NC) for Marine Combat Training for about 4 weeks. From there, he will go straight to is job training (also in NC) for 3 months. He might be done in time for Christmas. Boy do I hope so. You don't realize how much you miss someone until you can't talk to or see them for 3 months! Chase came to eat lunch with me at work today and he was a hit. Everyone was talking about how good he looked in his uniform after. I should get his dress blues pictures tomorrow. When I do, I'll scan one and post it.
He did say that he kept EVERY letter and card he received and he got many that he didn't know who it was that was sending them. But he appreciated every one. And Steve and I appreciated each of you that sent something. I'm sure he'll be a little homesick while he's gone in the next few months but I think he'll have email access, so when I find out for sure I'll post his email address (with his permission) so you can send him encouraging notes there too.
Without further ado...
(and most of these were on Facebook, so if you are my friend there, they will be duplicates)...
8.17.2009
Laid Off...
Steve.
Today.
Unemployed.
More to come, I promise...we are OK. We are not strangers to the tough times. I am looking forward to see how God is going to work through this.
But if you feel God is leading YOU to help him find another job, please feel free!!! :)
Today.
Unemployed.
More to come, I promise...we are OK. We are not strangers to the tough times. I am looking forward to see how God is going to work through this.
But if you feel God is leading YOU to help him find another job, please feel free!!! :)
8.11.2009
Vacay Recap
I have been promising some friends (KB!) that I would post a vacation recap this week while I was off. I have so many pictures from the week that I decided a slideshow would be best.
Monday, we arrived by plane and because we were staying in a family member's condo, we were able to get our rental CONVERTIBLE and go straight there. It rained most of the time. We did go down the street to dinner at a great little place called The Oasis and when we got back it was dried up enough to walk the beach. Although JG thought "walk the beach" meant "get in and get your clothes soaked"...
Tuesday we spent most all day at the beach and the pool. When JG was little, she preferred the pool to the beach. Now, it's just the opposite. Wednesday was more of the same, but when we came in for lunch we cleaned up and visited the Old Jail and bought Trolley tickets. Thursday we rode the trolley and went to the Alligator Farm. We also walked around St. George's Street a while. We were supposed to go horseback riding on the beach, but the storm blew up and that was postponed until Friday. I believe it was Thursday night that we did the Haunted Trolley Tour. That was fun...
Friday, my family from Jacksonville took off and chauffered us around all day. We did more trolley riding, more St. George shopping but first we did the parasailing. 1400 feet was as high as we could go and we did it. Amazing...and so quiet and peaceful. It is as close as I will ever get to flying like a bird. I would highly recommend it. That is, if you aren't afraid of heights. They will dip you in the water, but I was more concerned about taking pictures so I didn't want that. Plus, we didn't have our bathing suits on because we were spending the rest of the day (this was at 10 in the morning) in downtown St. Augustine and we didn't want to be wet. We ended the day with the horseback riding on the beach. We enjoyed some delicious seafood almost every night of the week!
We had quite the full week...we did so much...almost everything we wanted to do, we did. I would have never believed how much there was to do in St. Augustine.
Now we are back and ready for the coming festivities. Tonight, JG is having her BFF from school over to spend the night. They are not going to be in the same class this year for the first time since Pre-K, so this is a special end-of-summer sleepover! Tomorrow we are going to meet her teacher and pre-register for school since we'll miss her registration day on Thursday.
After we do that, it's off to the airport to fly to Parris Island to see Chase graduate. I promise many, MANY pictures when I return. We are coming back Friday evening, so I hope to upload my pictures and post on Saturday. It will be so good to have him home (though it won't be for long). Thanks for all your prayers, cards and letters for Chase. He received and felt every one.
OK, off to pack...
Monday, we arrived by plane and because we were staying in a family member's condo, we were able to get our rental CONVERTIBLE and go straight there. It rained most of the time. We did go down the street to dinner at a great little place called The Oasis and when we got back it was dried up enough to walk the beach. Although JG thought "walk the beach" meant "get in and get your clothes soaked"...
Tuesday we spent most all day at the beach and the pool. When JG was little, she preferred the pool to the beach. Now, it's just the opposite. Wednesday was more of the same, but when we came in for lunch we cleaned up and visited the Old Jail and bought Trolley tickets. Thursday we rode the trolley and went to the Alligator Farm. We also walked around St. George's Street a while. We were supposed to go horseback riding on the beach, but the storm blew up and that was postponed until Friday. I believe it was Thursday night that we did the Haunted Trolley Tour. That was fun...
Friday, my family from Jacksonville took off and chauffered us around all day. We did more trolley riding, more St. George shopping but first we did the parasailing. 1400 feet was as high as we could go and we did it. Amazing...and so quiet and peaceful. It is as close as I will ever get to flying like a bird. I would highly recommend it. That is, if you aren't afraid of heights. They will dip you in the water, but I was more concerned about taking pictures so I didn't want that. Plus, we didn't have our bathing suits on because we were spending the rest of the day (this was at 10 in the morning) in downtown St. Augustine and we didn't want to be wet. We ended the day with the horseback riding on the beach. We enjoyed some delicious seafood almost every night of the week!
We had quite the full week...we did so much...almost everything we wanted to do, we did. I would have never believed how much there was to do in St. Augustine.
Now we are back and ready for the coming festivities. Tonight, JG is having her BFF from school over to spend the night. They are not going to be in the same class this year for the first time since Pre-K, so this is a special end-of-summer sleepover! Tomorrow we are going to meet her teacher and pre-register for school since we'll miss her registration day on Thursday.
After we do that, it's off to the airport to fly to Parris Island to see Chase graduate. I promise many, MANY pictures when I return. We are coming back Friday evening, so I hope to upload my pictures and post on Saturday. It will be so good to have him home (though it won't be for long). Thanks for all your prayers, cards and letters for Chase. He received and felt every one.
OK, off to pack...
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