I have realized recently the need for quiet waters. I read a book by Max Lucado that breaks down Psalm 23 into sentence sections (1 per chapter).
We are all dumb sheep in need of a shephard!
The Lord is my Shepherd (I am a dumb sheep)
I shall not want (He provides all I need)
He makes me to lie down in green pastures (Rest)
He leads me beside still waters (Quiet time)
He restores my soul (Healing)
He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake (Lady with Strength & Honor – for His glory)
Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death (Loss)
I will fear no evil for You are with me (Faith)
Your rod and staff comfort me (Discipline & Guidance)
You prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies (Unmerited Favor in abundance)
You anoint my head with oil (Protection)
My cup overflows (Blessings)
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Thursday, January 27, 2011
100 Things for 2011
Thanks, Sue, for the response. I know I do not write here often. After I spend my day writing for work, college and Madison's school stuff + daytimer and all the sticky notes on my desk....I just cannot seem to find time to write down my thoughts! lol But, indeed I am trying!
My brother did this several years ago - though he might not be aware, I try at the end of each year to list 100 goals for the next year. Most are short-term, some are long-term...some of them simply roll over to the next year. I have been able to accomplish several things the past few years since starting this.
My brother did this several years ago - though he might not be aware, I try at the end of each year to list 100 goals for the next year. Most are short-term, some are long-term...some of them simply roll over to the next year. I have been able to accomplish several things the past few years since starting this.
My List:
- Madi & I attend 1 pottery class (we missed the last one)
- take more field trips
- Take a vacation with just my husband - anywhere
- take a family cruise
- be prepared to purchase a honeymoon for my step-son, who will more than likely propose soon!
- lose a few more lbs.
- write a book with my brother
- join AITP
- look into project management certifications
- master UNIX operating systems
- ace my college classes
- family get-togethers once a month
- get my funeral plan in order (myself & hubby)
- write my eulogy (sounds morbid - but I wish to be prepared)
- help Wayne get his funeral details organized - he wishes a party instead of funeral!
- pursue a new job
- Madi & I to start Spanish classes - we might talk hubby into that one!
- get a new vehicle
- get the Dodge in great condition
- paint the master bathroom
- paint the kitchen
- paint the living room
- take Madi to see the Pacific coast
- buy a new computer
- attend the home school convention
- spend more time with janet and the kiddos
- take M on tour of NASA via Pete in Texas
- attend one space launch - up close and personal (there are only 2 more scheduled with NASA =(
- master the art of keeping my desk clear
- have 1 very large cook-out - everyone invited
- buy new glasses/contacts
- get my wisdom teeth removed - ugh
- write on my blog more
- learn to dance
- teach Madi to dance
- look up one of my dad's old friends
- get better "plugged-in" to church
- take more Bible studies
- pay my tithes regularly
- give my husband control of the finances - I'm tired
- give up trying to control the things I cannot
- visit all my aunts and uncles more
- see more of my cousins - the millions of them!
- let go completely of the things in my past that I continue to hang onto
- be a better friend to others
- cultivate a deeper relationship with God, i.e. pray, read Bible, plugged-in church
- continue to participate in the Children's ministry
- do more for the Children's ministry
- be a better mom - there is just too much here to clarify!
- be a better wife
- be a better daughter/sister
- be a better property manager - not getting sidetrack with unnecessaries..
- give it all to God daily
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Guilty Pleasures
Sher did the guilty pleasures list awhile back. My one big, bad guilty pleasure is Dexter. I think the entire family thinks I'm sick. Now, I'm stuck without it until September when Season 6 comes out!
Holidays were great! However, I did get a bit sick (allergies) from the sugary stuff. It hit me last night - I think it's the milk in some of the homemade goodies. My system will not tolerate milk. I've known this for many years, but it has started showing up when I eat other things too. I made 2 batches of homemade fudge and nibbled while doing it. By that night, I was sick! Last night, I had a bit of Marlon's Whitmans chocolate and started sneezing...either I'm overloaded on sugar or it's the milk.
Now, I'm in the middle of cleaning files, spring cleaning the closets, cabinets, etc. while I am on break from school. I start back on Tuesday next week - so I am trying to get it all done.
Ms. Madi has enjoyed her break from school. I reminded her last night that we would start back up on Tuesday...she says, "ugh!! why did you have to remind me!?" Okie dokie...I'll have to come up with some really cool plans for next week.
She did get a crystal/geode maker kit for Christmas. We've yet to dive in but will probably do that next week.
Love you all ~ I know I do not write enough, especially for that awesome aunt who thinks I should...but I will work more on that this year!
jo
Holidays were great! However, I did get a bit sick (allergies) from the sugary stuff. It hit me last night - I think it's the milk in some of the homemade goodies. My system will not tolerate milk. I've known this for many years, but it has started showing up when I eat other things too. I made 2 batches of homemade fudge and nibbled while doing it. By that night, I was sick! Last night, I had a bit of Marlon's Whitmans chocolate and started sneezing...either I'm overloaded on sugar or it's the milk.
Now, I'm in the middle of cleaning files, spring cleaning the closets, cabinets, etc. while I am on break from school. I start back on Tuesday next week - so I am trying to get it all done.
Ms. Madi has enjoyed her break from school. I reminded her last night that we would start back up on Tuesday...she says, "ugh!! why did you have to remind me!?" Okie dokie...I'll have to come up with some really cool plans for next week.
She did get a crystal/geode maker kit for Christmas. We've yet to dive in but will probably do that next week.
Love you all ~ I know I do not write enough, especially for that awesome aunt who thinks I should...but I will work more on that this year!
jo
Friday, October 22, 2010
Life is good...
I am so rarely on here (until recently) that I had forgotten some of the stuff I had written. I was reading about Ms. Madi and her venture to a charter school. That seems so long ago. We have now settled in to home school. This is what we do. Since that time, I have realized more and more how precious the young years are. She is only young once. She loves being with mom and dad, and as long as she does, we will try to enjoy every second of it.
Sheri mentioned the guys doing an oil change(?) and how proud she was. It reminds me of M and the things she accomplishes. The things she knows and is capable of amazes me. Home school allows us to explore curriculum deeper, it allows M to learn cooking, baking, cleaning the house, laundry, and soo much more. She even pressure washed the porch last week! Dad left her outside with the pressure washer and told her to go at it. Fun stuff.
But I preach to the choir. I am thankful for our church. M has developed many new friendships with others her age. She has friends who live chose, but we often talk about those who are not exposed to Christ and a good Christian home. I allow her to make decisions on her own - while giving her the tools to do it. She often impresses me with what she comes up with.
I still stand in awe of what God blesses me with daily. It was a long road getting here - mostly self-induced - but who could ask for more than what He has given.....
I really wish I could find the charger to my camera battery!! I have lost it and have no clue why it is not where it should be. I'm stuck at the moment, not taking pictures..
Sheri mentioned the guys doing an oil change(?) and how proud she was. It reminds me of M and the things she accomplishes. The things she knows and is capable of amazes me. Home school allows us to explore curriculum deeper, it allows M to learn cooking, baking, cleaning the house, laundry, and soo much more. She even pressure washed the porch last week! Dad left her outside with the pressure washer and told her to go at it. Fun stuff.
But I preach to the choir. I am thankful for our church. M has developed many new friendships with others her age. She has friends who live chose, but we often talk about those who are not exposed to Christ and a good Christian home. I allow her to make decisions on her own - while giving her the tools to do it. She often impresses me with what she comes up with.
I still stand in awe of what God blesses me with daily. It was a long road getting here - mostly self-induced - but who could ask for more than what He has given.....
I really wish I could find the charger to my camera battery!! I have lost it and have no clue why it is not where it should be. I'm stuck at the moment, not taking pictures..
Thursday, October 21, 2010
pms
Sooo the older I get, the more PMS I get. At this point, I have Premenstrual syndrom, postmenstrual syndrom and menstrual syndrome. That leaves me with like 7 good days out of a month. Seriously?!
Poor Madison..the other day I cramped so bad, I couldn't stand up straight. I ended up lying down for a bit. I never do this. I've never had issues like this since I started at age 11. I've experienced this severe cramping about 6 times over the past year or so, but this was the worst. Madison says, "that's why I'm having surgery and just never having kids, Mom!" I would like at least 1 blood grandchild, but who knows....
So besides that I'm great. I did send a crazy email to my finance counselor with the University of Phoenix today. I knew I should wait and not send it, but even hours after the fact, I'm still irritated and don't regret what I said...so maybe...he listened. who knows. he didn't respond. But i do know that probably another day, I would've reacted differently.
Okay, i'm done with that. I can't even type tonight. This looks horrible.
So, I'm off to study some more and get my mind back into schoolwork.
(I'm glad not many people are seeing this..yes, I have privacy settings up..........I think........I better check that!)
jo
Poor Madison..the other day I cramped so bad, I couldn't stand up straight. I ended up lying down for a bit. I never do this. I've never had issues like this since I started at age 11. I've experienced this severe cramping about 6 times over the past year or so, but this was the worst. Madison says, "that's why I'm having surgery and just never having kids, Mom!" I would like at least 1 blood grandchild, but who knows....
So besides that I'm great. I did send a crazy email to my finance counselor with the University of Phoenix today. I knew I should wait and not send it, but even hours after the fact, I'm still irritated and don't regret what I said...so maybe...he listened. who knows. he didn't respond. But i do know that probably another day, I would've reacted differently.
Okay, i'm done with that. I can't even type tonight. This looks horrible.
So, I'm off to study some more and get my mind back into schoolwork.
(I'm glad not many people are seeing this..yes, I have privacy settings up..........I think........I better check that!)
jo
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
S
One more thought for the day. S is a girl I knew from a previous marriage..She has grown into a beautiful woman. Looking back, I would love to be able to say that I had part in any of it, but I cannot. I left when she was young.
My love for her never changed. I beat myself up sometimes that I did not keep in contact through the years. As I look back, there was really nothing I could have done differently 13 years ago. To save myself and those around me, I left the state.
I cannot do anything to change the past - I am actually thankful for the past, because it has made me who I am today. But dearest S. Whoever said that you could never love a child of another as much as your own got it wrong! I think of S daily....when Madison is in the back seat singing, when she rolls her eyes at me, when she laughs or finds something extremely funny, when I log into Facebook, when I see S's cookie jar in the cabinet (one I have kept with me through it all..).....
...when I think of the responsibility of parenting and realize that I never set a good example in front of her...but she is always with me. I keep it light, I give her the space she wants, I cannot share with her how I truly feel. She doesn't wish to hear it and I can never tell her why I left her. We do not know each other as adults or the people we have grown to be. But time and distance never takes away from the special place she has in my heart. I carry her with me daily. While she will never view me as a parental figure in her life, I will never stop viewing her as a vital part of my life.
Enough of the mooshy stuff. Not only do I have to get myself motivated - I've got to motivate my husband as well...the weather is great for doing something outside and planting those Mums that are dying in the pots!!
My love for her never changed. I beat myself up sometimes that I did not keep in contact through the years. As I look back, there was really nothing I could have done differently 13 years ago. To save myself and those around me, I left the state.
I cannot do anything to change the past - I am actually thankful for the past, because it has made me who I am today. But dearest S. Whoever said that you could never love a child of another as much as your own got it wrong! I think of S daily....when Madison is in the back seat singing, when she rolls her eyes at me, when she laughs or finds something extremely funny, when I log into Facebook, when I see S's cookie jar in the cabinet (one I have kept with me through it all..).....
...when I think of the responsibility of parenting and realize that I never set a good example in front of her...but she is always with me. I keep it light, I give her the space she wants, I cannot share with her how I truly feel. She doesn't wish to hear it and I can never tell her why I left her. We do not know each other as adults or the people we have grown to be. But time and distance never takes away from the special place she has in my heart. I carry her with me daily. While she will never view me as a parental figure in her life, I will never stop viewing her as a vital part of my life.
Enough of the mooshy stuff. Not only do I have to get myself motivated - I've got to motivate my husband as well...the weather is great for doing something outside and planting those Mums that are dying in the pots!!
I finally found my blog and decided to write a moment while I drink my coffee. You guys are soo good at this - Sherry, Sue, Jeanette....ooohh Jeanette. It saddens me you are gone. One thing about Jeanette, she could always make you laugh - it might be after the fact of course, but she was very dear to me.
As I read through what I wrote a couple of years ago (wow, it's been that long?!), I wish to edit a statement I made. While I wrote my husband's favorite poem to live by, I commented that that did not work for me.....the Wise Ole Owl. Funny how life changes you - or perhaps our husbands do. I now prefer the quiet. While I do tend to still talk, I have learned it best not to involve myself in the drama of others.
Life is too short and full of its own worries to concern ourselves with what others are doing. Marlon has taught me that! Such a wonderful husband. I am not sure where I would be without him. He has taught me what true love really is.
I guess we never can know what true love and forgiveness is until we find ourselves lying at the foot of the cross. We must accept God's love and forgiveness - we then forgive ourselves - then we can in turn share that with others.
I am thankful today that I have known true love. I have forgiven myself and allowed God's love to be evident in my life.
I am blessed!
As I read through what I wrote a couple of years ago (wow, it's been that long?!), I wish to edit a statement I made. While I wrote my husband's favorite poem to live by, I commented that that did not work for me.....the Wise Ole Owl. Funny how life changes you - or perhaps our husbands do. I now prefer the quiet. While I do tend to still talk, I have learned it best not to involve myself in the drama of others.
Life is too short and full of its own worries to concern ourselves with what others are doing. Marlon has taught me that! Such a wonderful husband. I am not sure where I would be without him. He has taught me what true love really is.
I guess we never can know what true love and forgiveness is until we find ourselves lying at the foot of the cross. We must accept God's love and forgiveness - we then forgive ourselves - then we can in turn share that with others.
I am thankful today that I have known true love. I have forgiven myself and allowed God's love to be evident in my life.
I am blessed!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Okay, we wore that last joke out, so I deleted it.......
the dusting did not work, however, Marlon and I did clean house yesterday. He even mopped for me. That was sweet.
It's wintry weather today. Ice on the ground. Madison is home and I'm thankful we have nowhere to go. We plan on making cookies and drinking hot chocolate.....(and some schoolwork I suppose....)
Lots of love to everyone!
the dusting did not work, however, Marlon and I did clean house yesterday. He even mopped for me. That was sweet.
It's wintry weather today. Ice on the ground. Madison is home and I'm thankful we have nowhere to go. We plan on making cookies and drinking hot chocolate.....(and some schoolwork I suppose....)
Lots of love to everyone!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Marlon
Hubby meme:..
I found this and decided to play along too...
1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen? The History Chanell
2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad? Thousand Island
3. What's one food he doesn't like? Parmesan cheese
4. You go out to the bar. What does he order? We don't go to bars
5. Where did he go to high school? New Caney High, Texas
6. What size shoe does he wear? 9
7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? Tools, tools and more tools
8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? Homemade Reuban, and any sandwhich I make of course!
9. What would he eat every day if he could? Eggs!
10. What is his favorite cereal? Lucky Charms
11. What would he never wear? A kilt
12. What is his favorite sports team? He really doesn't watch sports! (crazy huh?)
13. Who did he vote for? I agree...don't discuss politics
14. Who is his best friend? Me
15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do? I have a difficult time saying no to others. I sympathize too much sometimes with the wrong people
16. How many states has he lived in? Wow! let's see...Arkansas, Texas, New York, California, Japan, The Philippines...maybe more..
17. What is his heritage? German
18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what would it be? Chocolate
19. Did he play sports in high school? NO
20. What could he spend hours doing. Sleeping
21. What's something cool about him? He can always make me laugh no matter what. He never has to be or likes to be the center of attention. His favorite saying of all:
The wise ole owl,
sat in the oak.
The more he saw,
the less he spoke.
The less he spoke,
the more he heard.
Why can't we all be like that wise ole bird. (unknown)....or something like that.
That's his personal philosophy for a good life. It's doesn't necessarily work for me....I like to talk too much! But for him, he's completely content. And that makes me content!
I found this and decided to play along too...
1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen? The History Chanell
2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad? Thousand Island
3. What's one food he doesn't like? Parmesan cheese
4. You go out to the bar. What does he order? We don't go to bars
5. Where did he go to high school? New Caney High, Texas
6. What size shoe does he wear? 9
7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? Tools, tools and more tools
8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? Homemade Reuban, and any sandwhich I make of course!
9. What would he eat every day if he could? Eggs!
10. What is his favorite cereal? Lucky Charms
11. What would he never wear? A kilt
12. What is his favorite sports team? He really doesn't watch sports! (crazy huh?)
13. Who did he vote for? I agree...don't discuss politics
14. Who is his best friend? Me
15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do? I have a difficult time saying no to others. I sympathize too much sometimes with the wrong people
16. How many states has he lived in? Wow! let's see...Arkansas, Texas, New York, California, Japan, The Philippines...maybe more..
17. What is his heritage? German
18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what would it be? Chocolate
19. Did he play sports in high school? NO
20. What could he spend hours doing. Sleeping
21. What's something cool about him? He can always make me laugh no matter what. He never has to be or likes to be the center of attention. His favorite saying of all:
The wise ole owl,
sat in the oak.
The more he saw,
the less he spoke.
The less he spoke,
the more he heard.
Why can't we all be like that wise ole bird. (unknown)....or something like that.
That's his personal philosophy for a good life. It's doesn't necessarily work for me....I like to talk too much! But for him, he's completely content. And that makes me content!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Scooter
Oh yeah, and Mr. Scooter got "altered" and shots yesterday. He was so tramatized in the cage while waiting that he tried to break out....and broke a couple of his bottom teeth in front. He's had a rough time. But he's getting lots of love and attention. Even Marlon is walking around telling Scooter how much he loves him! Okay, that DOES NOT happen. My poor baby....he's happy to be home and the workers never want to see him again! lol
I'm Back!
Yeah, I know....don't pass out that I'm back soo soon. My heart is heavy and I can't sleep. In order to share what I'm about to, I need to back up a bit. As everyone knows, earlier this year we decided as a family to send Ms. Madison to the new charter school. Public school has never been an option for me, and as my life got busier, we were all about to pull our hair out. I prayed about it and off she went.
School was exciting at first and things went okay for her...but she did (and does) get tired in the afternoons and cranky. This has been a big transition for all of us, as you can imagine. I then started college myself in September (lovin' it by the way) and for my first class, I had to write a persuasive essay. I chose home schooling. Every night, I lay in bed wondering what in the world I had been thinking to ever send her to school in the first place. Then, as it always does, things got really busy for me work wise. At the encouragement of a dear friend, I laid it aside to think of it no more, realizing God was in control....He does things for a reason and things would be fine.
As I put my mind at ease about all this, Ms. Madison suddenly decides school is awful and doesn't want to go. She called me today at 10:00. She had told the teacher she wanted to be home with her mother...she was done for the day. The teacher was in shock of course, but allowed her to call me. My intention was to talk to her and leave her there. When I got to the school, she was pretty much checked out and in the office waiting for me.
The teacher called later to tell me that Madison is really bothered and this is a make or break it time for her. She asked for suggestions. I told her I had none and was simply praying for direction. I prayed all day that God was just show me the way. Make it clear. That's all I could ask for. He does it for me time and again. Marlon and I finally found a moment to talk this afternoon. His response was "It's time for her to stay home." There was no longer any question for him.
That was part of my difficulty all the way through home schooling. He thought she should be in school, but allowed me to make the decision. He was supportive but not always encouraging. This evening, he tells me it's the best thing possible and he will be more involved from this point out. He told me if I was up for it, she didn't need to go back....
My dear friend that I always call when I need prayer suggested that we give her until Christmas break. That was a stopping point...and I would not be teaching her that we just quit something whenever we feel like it. As I lie in bed, I'm still thinking through this. We asked her to write down pros and cons....Ms. Madison that is....she cried and battled with it, but tonight, she told her daddy that she was ready to be home. She couldn't bear the thought of going back.
We live and learn. I know that for some reason God allowed all of this to happen. Perhaps it was for Marlon to be involved more. Perhaps it was for Madison to see what she wasn't missing. Or maybe for me to rearrange my priorities and remember why I started this venture in the first place. As I write this, I keep having the thought....they are only young once. Time passes quickly and we only have one chance to make impressions on our children....we can't go back when they are adults and try to fix what we realize we messed up.
I know home schooling is the best option for us. I just need prayer and guidance. I need to remember daily that life is suppose to be busy, and my child comes first no matter what...somehow, I've forgotten that along the way....it's awful to admit.
To all those moms who do it and never doubt it, kudos to you! You are several steps ahead of me. To those of you who send your children to school and cover them in prayer, I commend you as well. It's an amazing journey. I want to do my part in my daughter's life to make it the best journey....Pray for me as I prioritize my schedule....yet again!
Okay, I feel better already.
School was exciting at first and things went okay for her...but she did (and does) get tired in the afternoons and cranky. This has been a big transition for all of us, as you can imagine. I then started college myself in September (lovin' it by the way) and for my first class, I had to write a persuasive essay. I chose home schooling. Every night, I lay in bed wondering what in the world I had been thinking to ever send her to school in the first place. Then, as it always does, things got really busy for me work wise. At the encouragement of a dear friend, I laid it aside to think of it no more, realizing God was in control....He does things for a reason and things would be fine.
As I put my mind at ease about all this, Ms. Madison suddenly decides school is awful and doesn't want to go. She called me today at 10:00. She had told the teacher she wanted to be home with her mother...she was done for the day. The teacher was in shock of course, but allowed her to call me. My intention was to talk to her and leave her there. When I got to the school, she was pretty much checked out and in the office waiting for me.
The teacher called later to tell me that Madison is really bothered and this is a make or break it time for her. She asked for suggestions. I told her I had none and was simply praying for direction. I prayed all day that God was just show me the way. Make it clear. That's all I could ask for. He does it for me time and again. Marlon and I finally found a moment to talk this afternoon. His response was "It's time for her to stay home." There was no longer any question for him.
That was part of my difficulty all the way through home schooling. He thought she should be in school, but allowed me to make the decision. He was supportive but not always encouraging. This evening, he tells me it's the best thing possible and he will be more involved from this point out. He told me if I was up for it, she didn't need to go back....
My dear friend that I always call when I need prayer suggested that we give her until Christmas break. That was a stopping point...and I would not be teaching her that we just quit something whenever we feel like it. As I lie in bed, I'm still thinking through this. We asked her to write down pros and cons....Ms. Madison that is....she cried and battled with it, but tonight, she told her daddy that she was ready to be home. She couldn't bear the thought of going back.
We live and learn. I know that for some reason God allowed all of this to happen. Perhaps it was for Marlon to be involved more. Perhaps it was for Madison to see what she wasn't missing. Or maybe for me to rearrange my priorities and remember why I started this venture in the first place. As I write this, I keep having the thought....they are only young once. Time passes quickly and we only have one chance to make impressions on our children....we can't go back when they are adults and try to fix what we realize we messed up.
I know home schooling is the best option for us. I just need prayer and guidance. I need to remember daily that life is suppose to be busy, and my child comes first no matter what...somehow, I've forgotten that along the way....it's awful to admit.
To all those moms who do it and never doubt it, kudos to you! You are several steps ahead of me. To those of you who send your children to school and cover them in prayer, I commend you as well. It's an amazing journey. I want to do my part in my daughter's life to make it the best journey....Pray for me as I prioritize my schedule....yet again!
Okay, I feel better already.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Inquiring Minds
Okay, guys and gals, I'm here. I didn't realize how long it has been until I logged on and saw the date...yikes! And yes, dear Sue, it is difficult to keep my sanity!
let's see, the last post was right before Halloween...we survived that, and then Ms. Madison has a party November 1st. A sleep-over actually with a bunch of girls...that was fun!
Anyway, then Marlon's family sprung one on me. We were planning to be in Texas on Thanksgiving, but as it turned out, they planned Thanksgiving for Sunday the 16th. That way, all 5 siblings could be there. One girl lives in Arizona, Marlon in Arkansas of course, and the other 3 in Texas. Debbie his oldest sister went to Germany for Thanksgiving. How wonderful!
Anyway, so as it worked out, Ms. Madison was out of school already the 13th & 14th, so off we went to Texas. We had Thanksgiving on the 16th as planned, and then the 3 of us drove back home on Monday. It was a wonderful trip. My in-laws is one of my favorite vacationing spots. It is so peaceful and quiet most of the time.
So....then the next thing I guess was Thanksgiving. I absolutely love to cook, bake and create. So, that's what I did. We had a wonderful, peaceful time at home. Mother came over and we cooked up a storm. Yolie and the kiddos did come over and eat on Friday. But half of the food I loaded up and took to Debbie's house. She spent most of her week working and didn't have time to cook much. So, I enjoyed being of service.
Then, the craziest thing of all. Mother and I stayed up late on Thurs. night watching movies. Then, got up at 3:30am to go to Kohls right up the road. I have NEVER gone shopping the day after Thanksgiving. For those of you who love to do that, Kuddos to you. But for me personally, I can't stand it! However, mother wanted the towels and washcloths for $2.99 a bundle, and I wanted the mattress topper for my bed for $35.00. She did get her towels. I did not however get my topper. I did get some toys fairly cheapo, but the line......OMG! It was horrible. We got home at 6am and went to bed. Unfortunately, my mother cannot stand in line for 2 hours to purchase towels, no matter how cheap. I kept telling her we would drop it and go home, but she insisted. well, she suffered for it. She spent the weekend in the bed with her back out of line. It's almost comical.....the idea, that is, that we could do that somehow and walk away enjoying it! Lesson learned! One time is plenty for me. Crowds give me anxiety.
So, now you wonder I suppose what has kept me from posting? Well, I am still attending college online. I have stayed on top of that, worked from home and been a full-time employee/stay at home housewife....yeah, I'm about crazy! But it's all good...
Marlon and I were discussing Christmas. We asked each other what we wanted. For the first time, neither of us can think of a thing. We are both so blessed and have decided to just buy for our children and the kiddos next door. I want them all to have a good Christmas. Even with the chaos, life is good and peaceful. I lie in bed at night thanking God for all He has given me. I truly do not deserve everything He has blessed me with. To some, it may not be much. But he has truly given me the desires of my heart time and time again. (I may have said that already on here, but it's the one thing that comes to my mind repeatedly). God is good!
Oh yeah, and the best part. We always have an artificial tree. I have always had an issue with this, mostly because it's ugly. But this year, we decided on a real tree. We went Saturday and bought one. The most beautiful tree! The 3 of us spent the evening decorating and pulling out all the Christmas stuff. We now have a Christmas filled house ready for Santa.
OKay, that's it for now. I will return very shortly!
to all those who read this: I love you, I'm sure. If I don't know you or vice versa, then rest assured, you would love me! =)
Happy Holidays to All!
let's see, the last post was right before Halloween...we survived that, and then Ms. Madison has a party November 1st. A sleep-over actually with a bunch of girls...that was fun!
Anyway, then Marlon's family sprung one on me. We were planning to be in Texas on Thanksgiving, but as it turned out, they planned Thanksgiving for Sunday the 16th. That way, all 5 siblings could be there. One girl lives in Arizona, Marlon in Arkansas of course, and the other 3 in Texas. Debbie his oldest sister went to Germany for Thanksgiving. How wonderful!
Anyway, so as it worked out, Ms. Madison was out of school already the 13th & 14th, so off we went to Texas. We had Thanksgiving on the 16th as planned, and then the 3 of us drove back home on Monday. It was a wonderful trip. My in-laws is one of my favorite vacationing spots. It is so peaceful and quiet most of the time.
So....then the next thing I guess was Thanksgiving. I absolutely love to cook, bake and create. So, that's what I did. We had a wonderful, peaceful time at home. Mother came over and we cooked up a storm. Yolie and the kiddos did come over and eat on Friday. But half of the food I loaded up and took to Debbie's house. She spent most of her week working and didn't have time to cook much. So, I enjoyed being of service.
Then, the craziest thing of all. Mother and I stayed up late on Thurs. night watching movies. Then, got up at 3:30am to go to Kohls right up the road. I have NEVER gone shopping the day after Thanksgiving. For those of you who love to do that, Kuddos to you. But for me personally, I can't stand it! However, mother wanted the towels and washcloths for $2.99 a bundle, and I wanted the mattress topper for my bed for $35.00. She did get her towels. I did not however get my topper. I did get some toys fairly cheapo, but the line......OMG! It was horrible. We got home at 6am and went to bed. Unfortunately, my mother cannot stand in line for 2 hours to purchase towels, no matter how cheap. I kept telling her we would drop it and go home, but she insisted. well, she suffered for it. She spent the weekend in the bed with her back out of line. It's almost comical.....the idea, that is, that we could do that somehow and walk away enjoying it! Lesson learned! One time is plenty for me. Crowds give me anxiety.
So, now you wonder I suppose what has kept me from posting? Well, I am still attending college online. I have stayed on top of that, worked from home and been a full-time employee/stay at home housewife....yeah, I'm about crazy! But it's all good...
Marlon and I were discussing Christmas. We asked each other what we wanted. For the first time, neither of us can think of a thing. We are both so blessed and have decided to just buy for our children and the kiddos next door. I want them all to have a good Christmas. Even with the chaos, life is good and peaceful. I lie in bed at night thanking God for all He has given me. I truly do not deserve everything He has blessed me with. To some, it may not be much. But he has truly given me the desires of my heart time and time again. (I may have said that already on here, but it's the one thing that comes to my mind repeatedly). God is good!
Oh yeah, and the best part. We always have an artificial tree. I have always had an issue with this, mostly because it's ugly. But this year, we decided on a real tree. We went Saturday and bought one. The most beautiful tree! The 3 of us spent the evening decorating and pulling out all the Christmas stuff. We now have a Christmas filled house ready for Santa.
OKay, that's it for now. I will return very shortly!
to all those who read this: I love you, I'm sure. If I don't know you or vice versa, then rest assured, you would love me! =)
Happy Holidays to All!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Sandra
I yet to have a good picture of Sandra, Wayne's wife. If she doesn't send me a good one, she will force me to use one I have with her mouth opened and her head turned! Hint hint!
Anyway, Sandra and I used to talk almost daily for about 2 hours. As I got my priorities straight a couple of years ago, I realized I did not have time to talk on the phone, no matter how many of the world's problems we solved between us. I rarely get to see her anymore (we used to live down the street)...my brother keeps her busy I think!
Anyway, here's to you Sandra! My dearest friend and partner in crime! Hopefully, one of these days our lives will slow down and we can spend more time together.....You're the best!
Anyway, Sandra and I used to talk almost daily for about 2 hours. As I got my priorities straight a couple of years ago, I realized I did not have time to talk on the phone, no matter how many of the world's problems we solved between us. I rarely get to see her anymore (we used to live down the street)...my brother keeps her busy I think!
Anyway, here's to you Sandra! My dearest friend and partner in crime! Hopefully, one of these days our lives will slow down and we can spend more time together.....You're the best!
Debbie~my dear friend...We dragged her along for the ride. She needed hay and pumpkins for her decorations...
Anyway, that's our trip! Other than that, I've been doing school work and finishing up outside for the winter. I'm so excited mowing season is almost over! Yippee!
I transferred some iris bulbs that a friend gave me. I love bulbs...so easy to maintain. I did plant some pansies around the property for the winter. I usually choose a variety of colors, but this year, I went with just dark pink. Beautiful!
Okay, I'm here! We've stayed sooo busy the past few weeks, it's just difficult to keep up. We went to the pumpkin patch. Long trips are always fun and festive, especially when we have our neighbor children with us. Our family basically adopted the children and their mother in January when the fiance left....She had 3 at the time and has since had another baby.....they are beautiful children! Anyway, they live 2 spaces down and come over quite a bit. It's almost like being a grandma at the early age of 34....so fun!We didn't get a picture of Yolanda, the mother, for some reason, but I did get a picture of my best friend Debbie holding Izzy.
Okay, so we have Izzy that is 1 1/2, Evie that is 2 1/2 and Madison. We left the newborn at home and Javen, the 7 yr. old brother was with his dad...
This is Madison on the hayride into the pumpkin patch where she picked this pumpkin. I'm dying to cook the thing....we only have about 10 of them now outside on our hay!...but she refuses. Last year I cooked fresh pumpkins for the pies and what a difference!!! I've never really cared for pumpkin pie, but I fell in love with it last year! Fresh pumpkins makes all the difference.
.....okay! I can see I'm going to have difficulty posting all these pictures beside this paragraph...let me try something different...
Monday, October 6, 2008
Yes Ma'am!!
Okay, to the tons of folks (yeah right!) wondering where I am, here it is. What a week it's been! I started college online last Monday with the University of Phoenix. It was a productive week but I had to be careful and choose my time wisely to get everything done.
On Saturday, Madison decided she wanted to make the neighbors a cake. Even in her worst moments being a Gemini, she has a heart of gold and loves to give to others. So, she did it, all by herself. Then decided to decorate it with M&Ms, candy corn and pumpkins. It turned out beautiful! She did it from start to finish by herself. Unfortunately, I did not even think of the camera until it was all said and done. Sherry is soo good at that! Those taking pictures of everything. I'll get there...so, I've spent my spare time the past few days trying to remove the outlets from the picture...no luck. My brain is not working! Anyway, as fuzzy as it is, here is the cake!
Anyway, my dear aunt insisted that I needed to post and somehow I was getting LAZY about it! The truth is, she really just wants something to read so she can sit down....
more later (I promise) and
lots of love to all,
me
Friday, September 26, 2008
To The Rest of You!
Just wanted to say I'm how impressed I am that you guys have so much time and energy to write post pictures all the time! I told Sherry that I'm going to have to get with the program! I am going to have to pull out the camera though. I know, it's just awful that I don't take more pictures....but I'm on it!
Lots of love to all of you!
Lots of love to all of you!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Well...I have done it again. For the past couple of weeks, I have worked on a letter to someone....accusing them of holding ill feelings against others when I have done the same thing myself. Choosing self-righteousness over love. To those of you who have witnessed that in me, please forgive me...
Ya see, I used to believe that it was my God-given duty to set everyone else straight. This included any and everyone right down to the server at a fast food restaurant. But a few years ago when God delivered me from the baggage, abuse, addictions and plain and simple, a sin-filled life, I suddenly saw the reflection in the mirror. The awful person I had become. For the first time in my life, I truly fell in love with Jesus and saw myself for who I was compared to who HE is......you see, it was rarely that the other person was totally right or justified..it was that I was sooo wrong.
so.......somehow, I fell in this trap again. Suddenly out of nowhere, I get on this tangent to set the record straight with someone. It all came to a head last night (for me) when I couldn't go to sleep for thinking about it. About 1am, I thought "Oh my goodness! What am I doing?" I prayed and set it aside. Now, all I can think about is telling the person how much I love them and clear the air.
Thankfully, I did not get around to sending the letter. We make choices everyday to either respond or react. And truly the only right response to anything is to let God's love flow through us. The Blessing is that I've chosen once again to just love. Hopefully, I can do just that. And thankfully, all the people I've hurt along the way have not written me a letter pointing out all my faults. Otherwise, I would have received hundreds.
One thing I could always say about my dad...he loved me! We argued, we fought and we told each other off numerous times. But we could always say to the other, "I'm having a bad. You've hurt me. I'm mad at you...and if you will leave me alone, I will be okay." I loved having that with my dad. Now, I can even cherish the times we argued and how stupid it all was. Thankfully, the last year of his life, he made ammends and learned to love as Christ loves us. He learn to turn the other cheek and love no matter what. But why must we wait until we feel we've wasted our life (or our bodies) or feel we're near the end to see clearly? I choose not to follow in his steps in that regard. I choose to love and allow myself to be loved here and now!
So, If I've ever hurt you, done you wrong, made you feel less of a person, not loved you or just ignored you all together, please forgive me. It was just me preoccupied with myself.
For our struggle is not against fless and blood, but against the rulers, authorities, powers of this dark world and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12
Ya see, I used to believe that it was my God-given duty to set everyone else straight. This included any and everyone right down to the server at a fast food restaurant. But a few years ago when God delivered me from the baggage, abuse, addictions and plain and simple, a sin-filled life, I suddenly saw the reflection in the mirror. The awful person I had become. For the first time in my life, I truly fell in love with Jesus and saw myself for who I was compared to who HE is......you see, it was rarely that the other person was totally right or justified..it was that I was sooo wrong.
so.......somehow, I fell in this trap again. Suddenly out of nowhere, I get on this tangent to set the record straight with someone. It all came to a head last night (for me) when I couldn't go to sleep for thinking about it. About 1am, I thought "Oh my goodness! What am I doing?" I prayed and set it aside. Now, all I can think about is telling the person how much I love them and clear the air.
Thankfully, I did not get around to sending the letter. We make choices everyday to either respond or react. And truly the only right response to anything is to let God's love flow through us. The Blessing is that I've chosen once again to just love. Hopefully, I can do just that. And thankfully, all the people I've hurt along the way have not written me a letter pointing out all my faults. Otherwise, I would have received hundreds.
One thing I could always say about my dad...he loved me! We argued, we fought and we told each other off numerous times. But we could always say to the other, "I'm having a bad. You've hurt me. I'm mad at you...and if you will leave me alone, I will be okay." I loved having that with my dad. Now, I can even cherish the times we argued and how stupid it all was. Thankfully, the last year of his life, he made ammends and learned to love as Christ loves us. He learn to turn the other cheek and love no matter what. But why must we wait until we feel we've wasted our life (or our bodies) or feel we're near the end to see clearly? I choose not to follow in his steps in that regard. I choose to love and allow myself to be loved here and now!
So, If I've ever hurt you, done you wrong, made you feel less of a person, not loved you or just ignored you all together, please forgive me. It was just me preoccupied with myself.
For our struggle is not against fless and blood, but against the rulers, authorities, powers of this dark world and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12
Thursday, September 18, 2008
More Blessings!
Whoa! What a few days it has been with no computer! My desk is full of things waited to be attended to, but I couldn't help but take a moment to write. The Blessing of the computer being down is that my husband has chosen to give up his online video game. I'm amazed at how God has used the past few days to show him he could get rid of that. I'm rarely bothered that he chooses a video to play in his spare time. I've considered myself blessed that I have a husband that loves to be at home with his family regardless of what we're all doing at the moment...but it has at times irritated me, especially when he spaced out momentarily because he was "saving the world" (his words) and could not respond to me immediately.
But then again, the frustration would be my own fault because I do like to be responded to immediately! LOL....anyway, moving along.
I was asked to explain the pictures on my sidebar. At the top is of course me. Not a good one, but good memories with it. A picnic on Mother's Day with my family a couple of years ago. The real kind of picnic where you sit on the ground and fight the ants forming armies around your food.
My favorite guy is of course my husband. This picture was taken when Madison was born. This is one of my favorites of him because he's so happy and relaxed with Madison lying on his chest. This was before his health problems started and he looks so stress-free.
My baby is of course, Madison. The picture below it is one she made for me on the computer awhile back.
Dearest Sara~my 1st husband's daughter. I claim her of course as one of my own. She has grown into a beautiful woman, as you can tell. She graduated college in December with a degree in criminal justice and married this summer, Aaron Morris. Her mother and father have done a wonderful job with her. Although her mother, Kathy, told me once that she could take no credit for it...that God has blessed Sara and taken care of her through the years, even when life handed her lemons. She is truly a remarkable young lady. Her mother is special too. Kathy has recently become a prayer partner of mine and has grown very dear to me as well. There is a picture of her as a young lady and 2 of her wedding. The picture below is one she made for me many years ago.
Scooter~ well, he's our crazy dog. Jack Russell Terrier. We did not know what we were getting ourselves into with him but he is a wonderful addition to our family. He doesn't know he's not a human.
Our Kiddos~Marlon has 3 boys from a previous marriage. In order from left to right is Chris (20)~~Ben (14)~~Marlon (hmm)~~Jon (17)~~Madison in front. The boys live in Lousiana. The picture was taken on spur of the moment last Christmas while we were all visiting in Texas at my in-laws. (Surely you can see why Madison is so spoiled...but it's a good kind of spoiled)
But then again, the frustration would be my own fault because I do like to be responded to immediately! LOL....anyway, moving along.
I was asked to explain the pictures on my sidebar. At the top is of course me. Not a good one, but good memories with it. A picnic on Mother's Day with my family a couple of years ago. The real kind of picnic where you sit on the ground and fight the ants forming armies around your food.
My favorite guy is of course my husband. This picture was taken when Madison was born. This is one of my favorites of him because he's so happy and relaxed with Madison lying on his chest. This was before his health problems started and he looks so stress-free.
My baby is of course, Madison. The picture below it is one she made for me on the computer awhile back.
Dearest Sara~my 1st husband's daughter. I claim her of course as one of my own. She has grown into a beautiful woman, as you can tell. She graduated college in December with a degree in criminal justice and married this summer, Aaron Morris. Her mother and father have done a wonderful job with her. Although her mother, Kathy, told me once that she could take no credit for it...that God has blessed Sara and taken care of her through the years, even when life handed her lemons. She is truly a remarkable young lady. Her mother is special too. Kathy has recently become a prayer partner of mine and has grown very dear to me as well. There is a picture of her as a young lady and 2 of her wedding. The picture below is one she made for me many years ago.
Scooter~ well, he's our crazy dog. Jack Russell Terrier. We did not know what we were getting ourselves into with him but he is a wonderful addition to our family. He doesn't know he's not a human.
Our Kiddos~Marlon has 3 boys from a previous marriage. In order from left to right is Chris (20)~~Ben (14)~~Marlon (hmm)~~Jon (17)~~Madison in front. The boys live in Lousiana. The picture was taken on spur of the moment last Christmas while we were all visiting in Texas at my in-laws. (Surely you can see why Madison is so spoiled...but it's a good kind of spoiled)
My mother~ Whom I cherish though I don't tell her often enough. This is her 65th birthday from January of this year. She had just had surgery on her rotator cuff, and I talked her into cutting her hair short and then we dyed it red. Love it!
The next one~ My mother loves Indians. Real ones! Perhaps this is because she has a lot of Indian blood in her. We siblings have taken turns taking her on vacations with us. Unfornately for Wayne and I, Loyd has outdone us in that department. This picture was taken in South Carolina on one of those trips with Loyd. You can see how happy she is. She is on an Indian reservation and this picture is with the Chief.
My dearest brother, John, graduated last year with a Bachelors from University of Phoenix. He is currently working on his masters degree. He has inspired me to further my education. You would be hard pressed to find a sister more proud than me. I know that no matter what situation I could find myself in, he would be there for me. He is supportive & loving. Life, experience and my sweet sister-in-law, Sandra, have done well by him. He is successful at whatever he sets his mind to and again, I am sooo proud!
I do have another brother and more family I have yet to put on here. I love them all and am proud of Loyd too. But I'll save that paragraph for when I find a space for his picture....
Okay, more later.
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