The heart that is open to receive is never left empty.

Well, I'm not gonna lie.  It's been a rough day.  But, even on these days I can see God's hand.   He is leading those who will allow Him.  And that comforts me.  He is always there for us.  Always.  The heart that is open to receive is never left empty.  Today, my heart is full.  But, His presence isn't always fully of happy giggles. He is whatever we need Him to be.  He is the Great I Am.  And today I needed His comfort through a difficult situation.  And He gave it.  And, sometimes, His comfort brings great tears.  He is the ultimate Listener.  The ultimate Salve for our wounds.  There's a song that says:

I’ve got to see You Lord, I’ve got to see You.
Every day of my life, through the joy or the strife,
I’ve got to see You.
I’ve got to see You, Lord, I’ve got to see You.
In the calm or the storm, through the right or the wrong,
I’ve got to see You.

Today, I saw Him.  Through all of it, I saw Him.  My Daddy God.  Who knows every part of me, and loves me unconditionally.  His comfort brings more peace than I can even begin to tell you.  And, I so needed it.  He IS in control.  Even when it doesn't seem like it, He is.  All will see.  All will see. 


Very thankful for friends who love me.  Who, without me saying a word just know.  I appreciate that.  And I love having people who I can turn to, to confide in without fear of judgement.  Friends who don't twist my motives, or what I say.  People who are honest.  Thank you, Jesus, for the people you have placed in my life. 

And, I am thankful for my husband.  Who never leaves.  Who is always, always there for me.  Who gives the best hugs, and always smiles and SHOWS me how much he loves me.  Anyone can say, "I love you."  He SHOWS me he loves me, everyday. 

I'm thankful for my kids who hug and love on me.  Who honestly care about me, and who come to my defense when need be.  They are so precious to me, even when they are stepping on my last nerve. :)  These 2 children light up my world.

Lastly, I'm thankful for you.  Thank you for reading.  For commenting.  For being my silent prayer warrior.  For being that someone out there, somewhere, that cares.  I love you.  And, my prayer is that every time you visit this blog, you will be blessed.  And that you will find something in the words I type that encourage you, and bring you joy.

We'll chat soon..

Oh my goodness, I COMPLETELY hosed my blog tonight.  I don't know what I did, but it was all of the sudden totally crapped out.  I had weird codes everywhere, all my stuff was gone..had to start completely over.  GRR

This will do until after Valentines day.  Have a great weekend!  Love you guys!

Hairless Cats. EWW!

The Thirst is Taking over by Skillet..LOVE IT!  Have you heard it?  It's on my playlist somewhere, but here's a YouTube for it. :)

 

It was a good..umm...stressful...successful..sunshiney day!  Got my new Billy Blanks Boot Camp Ab Blaster DVD in the mail today (Netflix)..LOVE IT!!!!  It's so great. 

Have you listened to the song yet?

We got to have blueberry pancakes for dinner tonight with bacon!  It was a bit of a splurge in the sugar/carb realm, but fit easily into the calorie marker.  So, we did it :)  The kids were excited.  I ran out of greens last night so salads are out till payday.  The kids will have a small reprieve.  Is that how you spell reprieve?  I don't think it is.

Helped Jess clean a house this morning..was nice to get out of the house!  It's pretty sad when your only time to hang out with your friend is if you tag along on a job.  :)  She bought me a salad for helping her and it was DELISH!!!  We were at Subway.  I tell the guy I want the Grilled Chicken Breast Salad. (that is the title of it on the menu)  He says, "Uh, what kind of chicken do you want?"  All butthole-ish.  I'm like uh..the kind that bocks?  Dear Lord.   I didn't say that to him.  I just said, "Um, the Grilled Chicken Breast that it says it comes with.  Whatever chicken you'd like to give me, don't care."  He was sooo rude from beginning to end!!  Oh well, he made a great salad.  And, he wore gloves.  Granted, he wore the same gloves to make my salad, work the oven, get the food bag, and close out the sale.  So everything is contaminated, but that's ok.  At least his hands are clean under the gloves.

We had major drama with tiny Greta puppy today!  See..she's growing.  And, although still extremely small..she's a jumper.  A very talented jumper.  She loves to jump from couch to couch to rocking chair to ground, and repeat.  Well, today she jumped to the rocking chair and stood there for a second and then something happened and I hear all of this crashing and puppy screaming and crying and wimpering.  She had somehow fallen off of the rocking chair and must have hit every different part of it, as well as the movie case on the way down.  Felt SOOOOOO bad for her!!!  Then later, I let her outside and kind of sort of got sidetracked and kind of sort of may have forgotten that I'd let her outside.  Neighborhood kids came knockin' on the door..we ignore them.  Then all of the sudden, I'm like ummm is Greta still outside?  Chris looks at me bewildered.  Oh crayap.  I go outside and can hear the same kids talking to the neighbor and hear him saying "That's a small breed!  She's cute.  Where did you find her?"  I run in and tell Chris, "THE NEIGHBOR HAS MY BABY, GO GET HER QUICK!!!"  Mind you, the neighbor has 2 pit bulls that will eat Greta for a snack.  Chris goes over and rescues her, brings her back into me.  She was shaking she was so scared.  I told Chris, "My baby has had a hard day.  She is traumatized.  I'm sitting down with her."  After some cuddle time she felt better.  *sigh*  I was a bad puppy Mommy today :(

Have you ever seen one of these cats?

Yeah, hideous demons, right???  THESE are the cats that caused my allergy attack today!  The ones that were at the house had very, very short hair..almost non existant.  But, let me just tell you right now..when those things came running for me I FAREAKED OUT.  I screamed bloody murder and ran for the kitchen and jumped up on the counter.  Absolutely freaking hideously ugly nasty demons.  I was having a panic attack.  Jess had to "talk me down".  I found the squirt bottle the lady uses for training them and used it on one of them to get it away from me.  While I was mopping the floor on hands and knees I obviously couldn't also hold a water bottle .. one came meowing and looking like it wanted to touch me with one of it's freakishly long legs, so I hissed at it.  It ran away.  THESE CATS ARE BIG, PEOPLE!  Jess was standing in the living room talking to me and one went up and rubbed himself on her leg and it's long snakey rat tail ALMOST touched her crotch!  DISGUSTING.

Well, that's all I have for now.  Love you!

Annoyances and Blessings

Listening to someone talk with cotton mouth.  One of the most annoying sounds in the world.

Employers who give you money that is proven to be yours only to decide (after you've spent it) that it really wasn't yours and they want it back, and it will wipe out your paycheck. But then they'll give you some of it back, later. One of the most annoying practices in the world.

People in power making random, round about, passive aggressive comments that break down instead of build up, in an effort to remove responsibility and step up another rung on the pride ladder.  One of the most annoying actions in the world.

Educational establishments who can't figure out up from down and royaly screw up your schedule thus making your son do double work for no reason at all.  One of the most annoying shows of incompetance in the world.

A governmental system that will only allow you to receive unemployment benefits shoud you be looking for a FULL time job, even though you HAVE a full time job but it just doesn't pay.  No option for reduced benefit if you can only do a part time job.  One of the most "I have your stuff but you can't have it" annoyances in the world.

A husband who loves you, and holds you in his strong, loving arms, and tells you how much he loves you, and how the Lord will take care of everything, and kisses your cheek, and smiles while looking into your eyes.  One of the most precious moments in the world.

Children who adore you, and praise you, and compliment your meals, and do as they are asked without complaining, and find joy in the little things like a trip to the library.  One of the hugest blessings in the world.

Puppies who run to cuddle and kiss on you, no matter your mood or how you  may have just yelled at them to MOVE.  One of the most silly yet enjoyable things in the world.

Just realizing that you've forgotten a load of laundry in the washing machine for 2 days.  Well that's what we call the cherry on top of the turd cake.

Did someone say, cake?

Striving to be chubby-less

Another week done, and the weekend is, too.  It was a long one!  Trying to think back on all that happened I just mostly have a whir of shapes and colors.  I think it was a good one..but one can't be entirely sure! haha

I've had 2 meltdown moments with this diet so far.  I didn't "fall of the wagon".  But, as many of you know, losing weight isn't about losing the weight.  It's a mental game.  And the winning or losing comes in whether or not you allow yourself to grow through the experience thus causing true change..or if you just lose the physical weight but keep the emotional weight.  I'm opting for the growth..the winning.  But, in that, the loss of control is no good.  I can see it both ways though.  My flesh man is losing control.  But my spirit man is gaining control.  This is where I want to be.  But dying to self/flesh is a daily (sometimes minutely) task.  And there have been 2 nights where I just wanted to shove food in my mouth till I felt so sick that I had shown my body who is real boss..that I can do whatever I want, whenever I want.  And if it involves more food than any human should eat in one sitting (or 4), then sobeit.  I've always said..I'm like a bulemic..only without the purging part.  And I always laughed about it.  But, it's really not all that funny.  I know WHY I am this way.  So in that I have kind of an advantage.  I've been workin on it for awhile now..and as I've become more open, the Lord has revealed to me many instances that have shaped me into the person I am now as far as food goes.  Now, it's just the process of healing those wounds (which were twisted..the words said by others were in no way wounding.  I just twisted them until they were.) and growing spiritually while shrinking physically :)  I've realized, as with most things, the more open I am with it, the less hesitant I am to talk about it with people.  And, that's a big step :)  I've had quite a few people tell me over the past few weeks that I do not need to lose weight, etc.  Which is usually my line to other people.  But..it's more about my insides than my outside.  And, the big news there is..even with people telling me that I am skinny, thin, not in need of weight loss...I haven't had the usual overcoming need to then go shove my face full of food until I feel that no one will call me skinny anymore.  So..growth!  Yay :)  Anyway..that's the update for now..

Oh, and I'm absolutely LOVING The Biggest Loser!  This is my first season really watching.  Are any of you watching?

Jaden is looking through 3 huge bags of hand-me-downs from is friends.  He's found a white dress shirt that he loves.  He says, "OH YES!  It's a James Bond shirt!!"  And now that he has it on he just told me, "There we go!  Now, I'm James Bond!  See?  (I say, looks good!) I like it."  He's so cute.  We got him a belt yesterday and this morning as he was getting ready for church I hear him ask Chris, "Hey, Daddy?  How do you dress so that your belt shows?"   Yesterday he told us the things he's come up with so far for his Birthday wish list.  First item: more Levi's.  Second item: money so that he can buy a pretzel at Target.  Third item: a DSI.  I told him the third request is out.  Chris offered to just buy him a pretzel but NO.  J is VERY firm on this.  He ONLY wants the money.  He MUST buy it on his own.  :)

I haven't seen Ash enough to know any cool stories she may have.  But she is getting very good at jumping over the gate we have blocking off the hallway (from the dogs) like a Gazelle.  She likes us to watch as she does this.  She is also going to start doing Tae Bo with Chris and I.  She's all excited.  Wants us to get the Hip Hop version..we might.  If we do, then J will join us, too.

On tonights menu, Pasta e Fagioli with salad and a balsamic vinagrette dressing.

Have a great rest of your Sunday.  Love you much!  One more thing..we were going over 2 Chronicles 20 in church today.  And my favorite part is the part that is in Jason Upton's song, he says, "I don't know what to do, I don't even have a clue.  But my eyes are on you Lord."  Here aee the snippets of my fave section:

...We have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you."  

...Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.' "

...As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated.

...The fear of God came upon all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard how the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel. 30 And the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side.

----

Isn't that awesome! Even when our lives are downright scary and the enemy is encamped around us (bills, naysayers, gossips, liars, etc) we can have faith that our God will take care of us. We just need to fix our eyes on Him, and follow His leading.  We must sing and praise!  He left not even ONE enemy standing.  Every single one was defeated.  And then, when He has won the battle, He floods us with His Holy REST on EVERY side.  His requirements?  That we are READY and in POSITION!  He commands us to NOT be discouraged, to NOT give into fear.  For if we are truly ready and in position, we will be in Him.  And in HIM, discouragement and fear cannot exist.  If you are praising and singing, there is little room for outside influence.  Because your focus is on HIM!  Yahoo!

Would your child say this?

I got this from the Empowering Christian Women blog.  The video is so beautiful.  I love it when the little girl says: "I need you to tell me I'm precious."  Thought you Mom's n Dad's would enjoy this, too.  Hug on your kids today :)

What are you speaking to your child? Are you choosing to speak positive, affirming and uplifting words OR negative, demeaning and destroying words?

“What you say can mean life or death. Those who speak with care will be rewarded.” ~ Prov. 18:21 NCV

Help Haiti

Found 2 new ways to help those in Haiti and others around the world today!  The first one is free.  We can all help that way, right?  Go to http://www.freerice.com/  You just answer quiz questions (english/math/art, etc) and every one you get right they donate grains of rice to be given to those in other countries.  You can donate up to 5000 grains/day.  It's a fun (and mega addicting) way to pass the time AND you are helping others.  Win, win! 

The other way is by donating $ by going to www.wfg.org/haiti. Or, text the word FRIENDS to 90999 to give $5.

Alrighty then..Gayle is back home.  She spent 12 hours in the doctors office yesterday waiting for a contraction (the home machine showed she had been having them regularly) and never had one contraction..faulty machine?  God?  Both?  Either way, she's home and hopefully RESTING! :)  The babies are all happy and have lots of good fluid in their little incubating bubbles. heehee

We watched FAME! tonight.  It was silly but entertaining.  I can't say I'd watch it again, but it was a good 2 hours spent!

Of the most annoying spirits...would you say mocking is one of them?  Or would we go lying?  Or could we possibly do a combo deal?  Just wondering.

Chris submitted his time off requests for the year, today.  I am so excited!  I just love that whenever he takes time off, I get it too.  As in, I won't still be going to work somewhere.  Beautiful!  This home schooling gig is awesome!  Not only do I get totally invaluable time with my son, but I get time off too!!  Lots of it!

MLK day yesterday.  Was happy to see more posts about him than I had expected.  Always nice to be happily surprised.  He was an amazing man.  I hope that in Heaven I get to meet him.  I know....I don't need to hear it..I know we will have new bodies..I know most believe (and probably correctly) that we won't look the same..but still..looking the same or not..spirit or not..I have to believe that that man will be recognizable. 

The ol' diet is going well, we think.  The scales battery died so we are kinda in the dark.  But just continuing on as normal.  We should really start working out.  I need an accountability buddy and I don't have one.  Someone who comes pounding on my door everynight, rain or shine, and says, "Get yer shoes on, we're goin now!"  I don't have that.  Which brings me to my next topic...self reliance.

Is it really necessary to have others motivate "you"?  Is it really necessary to be part of a group in order to fulfill what you feel you have been called to do?  Is it really?  Is it necessary for me?  What if I just decided, accountability partner or not, I am taking control of my own life and walking rain or shine.  What if I just decided, church family/community group or not, I can fullfill my calling simply because I know it's what I've been called to do.  The walking part, yes.  The calling part, yes.  But, you know what?  I believe God put more than one person on this planet for a reason.  For accountability.  For fellowship..because when in a group things get accomplished and morale is higher.  Because where 2 or more are gathered in His name...

So..I'll just leave that for ya to gnaw on.  I don't want to be stagnant.  But, I don't feel I've been called to be an army of one in the area outside of "walking".

Was approached the other day with a job ...  personal chef.  Wasn't sure what to feel about it at first.  I mean, it's serving.  I like that.  Love blessing others where I can.  And this is a definite way to do it.  Can do it from home.  It's in the planning stages.  Praying.

Was approached with another job opportunity... JUS.  Given to me for free, if I will give it a good shot.  I'm just not sure if I want to get involved in another MLM.  I will not go to someones house and pitch my sale.  I won't call someone and pitch my sale.  Those 2 factors alone probably cut me out, right?  Is it possible that I could do this via FB, Twitter, Blog, Website?  Not sure.  I will find out.  If someone wanted me to go talk to them about it that would be fine, but I am in no way interested in soliciting that way.  Will have a meeting on this later this week probably.  Praying.

Drama practice is overwhelming this year for Chris and Ash directly.  And for Jaden and I somewhat indirectly.  But when I get to the point where I just want to scream, "NO MORE!" (It's only the second week for goodness sake), I remember how amazing it is when they get to the performances.  And all of the tears in the audience, and the cheering, and all of the glory being given to the Lord.  Lives being affected.  And then I remember, this is SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO worth it.

I guess that's all I really have to say.  Actually, I think I've been rambling for awhile now.  But, I love you :)

OH..As you know, my blog is: Life is Change.  Growth is Optional.  But, I found a version of it today that I love, love, love!  It is: "It is not necessary to change.  Survival is not mandatory."

Prayer, friends, and diets, oh my!

Gayle is back in the hospital due to contractions.  Please pray with us that they stop.  Also, for Gayle that she would stay still and on bed rest as the doctors have asked.  It's so hard to be still when you start to feel better.  Especially for someone so active.  But rest is what is needed.  Hopefully they can get the contractions to stop and she can go  home.  Still no sign of infection, though, so that is good!  Thanks :)

We did well at the TBQ match in Nyssa on Saturday.  The kids had fun, and so did we!  Then we came home and ran back out for my brother and sister in laws birthday party.  Another fun time!

Friday night (I know, I should have started with Friday..) we had our friend Jen and her kiddos over for a "playdate" while our men went and saw Book of Eli.  We had so much fun chatting..an I hear the movie was great, too!  I look forward to seeing it.  Later that night I got some unexpected time with my friend, Judy.  Was a nice surprise!

Today we stayed home from church and just enjoyed eachothers company in the peace and quiet of home.  Then Chris and Ash went down for drama practice at 3.  I took J to his LaCrosse lesson at 4.  It was his first one, my brother is coaching him.  He did really well!  He's got a great coach :)  Then we came home, made up some dinner and took it down to drama practice where we hung out till 9. 

It's been a long weekend!  But, a good one :)

It's cold, dark, and windy here. 

Dieting is going fine.  Can't wait till it's over.  Nuff said.

Hope your weekend was spifftastic!  Love you :)

Letter from a Missionary serving in Haiti

My sister in law sent out this email, and update from Chelsea's Mom on their ongoing struggle to be reunited with their kids.  For background on this, read my previous post asking for prayer for Haiti by clicking HERE.

Here is the note from the family:


Byron believes that our children need to be evacuated, if at all possible.  I confess to being resistant to this.

Bodies are literally lining the streets, covered in sheets, many of them identified - but not all of them.  As you know it is very warm in Haiti.  This is a very bad combination, which will be made much worse if it begins to rain.  The potential for spreading disease increases exponentially at this point. So, against my strongest desire, I am asking that you pray the embassy permits my children to be evacuated with Kelly Tobin.

FURTHER......please pray they issue an emergency visa so that Belle can fly with them.  We do not have her passport as it was just turned into the Ministry of Immigration for the receipt of her new passport with our name.  We have nothing.  We are trying to work with the embassy - and have not been able to speak with a "real person" as of this moment.

JUST LEARNED that our tickets have been cancelled again.  We do not know what to do.

Isabelle is the biggest, BIGGEST piece of this very difficult puzzle.  We cannot leave her.

At present we have run out of options - ONLY GOD CAN PROVIDE ANSWERS, DIRECTION, A CLEAR PATH.

We really need a clear path.
---

**Also, here's my update on Gayle for today:

The doctors are allowing Gayle to go home today! She is still to be extremely careful, but they feel she is at a point where she can go home. If any infection arises, they will have to take the babies. So prayers are still needed!

Just a few days ago the doctors told her there was no hope and wanted to take the babies. She refused. And, today, praise GOD, she gets to go home. Our God is a good God! We pray for and believe with expectancy for her total healing and for the safety of the babies. NO INFECTION!!

I’ll let you know as I hear more.

Thank you for your continued prayers!

Pray for the babies, help the Haitians

I've asked for prayer through email for our friend, Gayle, who is pregnant with triplets and having medical issues.  She is at high risk to develop infection which would be life threatening to both her and the babies.  My Dad and her brother flew down today and prayed over her.  She is filled with hope and got up without bleeding for the first time since this started.  GOD IS GOOD!  Please believe with us for a miracle.  She is 20 weeks along, the docs say she needs to make it to 28 weeks for the babies to have a chance.  Our God is so big and we know He can do all things.  We're believing for the best possible outcome for Gayle and her 3 little unborn girls!

My brother and sister in law are going on a mission trip to Haiti..the place they are going has been directly affected by the recent earthquake.  I thought I would include the letter she wrote today for you to read.  If you are able to help, please do so!  Feel free to pass the email along to others.

Hi everyone,

I’m sure that you all have heard about the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Many of you may also know that one of our students at The College of Idaho has family that lives there. They are missionaries with Heartline Ministries, a ministry that runs an orphanage and a women’s center. Everyone is ok, but their house and facilities have suffered some damage, and Chelsey’s parents were in the states at the time of the earthquake, meaning that they were apart from their 5 younger children at the time. They have secured tickets back to Haiti tomorrow, but I can’t imagine the anxiety they must feel from not being able to be together with their kids.

Much prayer is needed for Chelsey’s family, their ministry, and the country as a whole. The poorest country in the nation just got poorer, but fortunately all of us know that the hope of Christ cannot be destroyed.

Prior to this disaster, we were already planning to send a student team to Haiti during our spring break for a service trip. We are still planning on traveling down there in April.

I know that many of you are connected to home churches. If you feel lead to do so, we would love any support we could get for our trip that will ultimately benefit the ministry in Haiti. We are looking for donations such as clothing, toiletries, and medical supplies (specific items are listed below) that either Chelsey can take down with her when she can go home in the near future, or that our group can take down with us in April, but most helpful would be monetary donations. The estimated repair costs for the damage to the house is $30,000-50,000!

If you would like to donate directly to the Haitian ministry rather than go through the C of I, here is the website: http://heartlineministries.org/default.aspx

If you would like to donate to our trip, you can simply send a check to

Campus Ministries
2112 Cleveland Blvd.
Caldwell, ID 83605

*Make the check out to The College of Idaho and put Haiti in the memo area.


Items needed for donation:

Tuna fish
Peanut butter
Baby formula
Hand sanitizer
Bug spray
Good, sturdy sandals for kids of all ages
Clothing
Mac and cheese
Cold cereal
Lotion/baby wash
Bibs (heavy/large)
Plastic pants (that go over cloth diapers)
Crib/bed sheets

Thank you for all of your prayers and support!

----
 
Have a great night everyone!  I will write a "real" blog on my little life next time.  But, I feel these things are more important today.  Love you!

Venting..Crying..Comforting..Biggest Loser..Fam update!

So, I've wanted to write and vent and cry and laugh and whatever else would fit on that little rollercoaster.  But I've refrained.  For many reasons.  Instead had private tears with friends, hubby and my Jesus.  And..in doing that I realize that it was for the best.  His joy truly comes in the morning.  And, I'm thankful for that.  Anyway, all is well..just forever changing.  And we all know how I sometimes am less than enthusiastic about change..err..seasons.  But, I'm getting better as the days go on!  By force if nothing else.  LOL!

I'm all into The Biggest Loser.  Haven't watched the other seasons but this season is mine baby!  2nd episode comes on in just a few. Will watch it later with my good lookin hubby.  Speaking of me and good looking hubby..we've decided to get even better looking LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Ok, I'm being a brat.  But, really, I decided last night to lose weight.  25 pounds.  Already lost the 7 I gained over Christmas.  Anyhoo my friend and his wife are both losin weight and I got to talkin with his wife last night and thought..eh what the heck, I'll do it, and hubby was all for joining me!  Cuz here's the thing.  I'm happy with my body, most days.  Even though it's less than what most would consider ideal.  BUT, when I think of myself 5 years from now..10 years from now..I will no longer be happy with my body if it stays as it is now.  So, I will lose weight.  I want arms of steel and the legs of Sandra Bullock.  However, I do not want to work out in the gym. So the arms part will not likely happen.  I can make the legs happen though..well not just like hers but .. sheesh you get the idea.  I wouldn't usually post this online, but I am anyway..so just in advance..please don't tell me "You've been losing weight!", "You really look great!" etc..because although you may think it's a compliment, all I hear is "Dang, you were UGLY before. Thank God you decided to take some of that lard off."  So let's just focus on my insides and forget the outside.  Plus, when people tell me those things, it makes me want to go eat 4 Big Macs and a tub of ice cream.  I know, this is something I need to work on.  And, I am.  But, until I get the victory over it..just shh.

Ashley talks non stop.  She's got so many stories and questions, etc.  She never asked 4 million why's and how's and what if's when she was 2, so I guess I should take her questions now with joy!  haha  Really, I love her chatting with me.  There are many parents who don't have that with their kids.  I am blessed.

J runs non stop.  No matter where he goes or what he's doing, he's running.  It's sweet.  Sometimes annoying, but sweet.  Love hearing his little feet pounding pitter pattering around the house.  Ok, he's not little.  But, he's littler than me. 

If you're watching Wheel of Fortune right now, the answer is: "Save room for dessert."

American Idol starts tonight.  I had quit watching it I think about 2 seasons ago.  Just couldn't deal with how cruel they are to people in the tryout portion of the show.  Hurt my heart.  But, Ellen is going to be one of the hosts this year, so I must watch.  At least for awhile.  And..for all of you Simon haters..I actually liked his input for the tryout-ers.  It was Paula and Randy laughing mockingly and being condescending to them that chapped my ...

Well, I better go.  Sure love you.

Until next time, I'll leave you with this:

There is a future for the man of peace because he takes refuge in Him.

*Psalm 37:39-40*

Friend tag things

Hi!  Ok, thanks to Rebekah over at Cowgirl for Jesus I am now active link smart!  :)  I remember someone had told me awhile back how to do it, but obviously I lost those instructions! 

Anyway, Rebekah has awarded me with these special awards and so now it's my turn to post awards on my page :) (P.S. R, thanks for thinking I'm lovely :) )

The first one is:

Rules


1. Thank the person who gave the award.

2. Copy the award.

3. Post it on your blog.

4. Tell seven things about yourself that your readers don't know.

5. Link seven new bloggers as recipients.

6. Notify the winners with comments on their blogs.

7. Keep being awesome!


1. My eyes are very dry (yet watering..hmm) and burning right now.  Ouch!

2. It frustrates me when the editing in shows is so raunchy that (reality tv including food network/hgtv, etc) that they show people with different clothes/hairstyles proving that the clips they've pieced together are from all different times..although they are trying to make you believe otherwise.  Reality my butt.

3.  I got a new bag the other day!  It's technically a purse, but I can't call it that because I don't use it as a purse, because I don't like purses.  But it holds my Bible case, and Bible Quiz binders, and water very nicely!  Love it

4.  We have a ton of DVD/BluRay's in the house.  I've seen maybe 1/4 of them.

5.  I'm pretty sure the act of folding and putting away laundry is straight from the playbook of the devil.

6.  I love the smell of fresh cut grass, even though it makes me sneeze.

7.  I love to house hunt.  Even though I can't buy one, cuz I can't sell mine.  I love to hunt.  My husband hunts animals, I hunt homes. 



I give this "Lovely Lady Lovely Blog" award to: (mine are not in any particular order..)

1. Jen

2. Tierney

3. Tiffany

4. Rebekah

5. Georgiann

6. Aurora

7. Laura







The second award:

The Lemonade Stand Award is awarded for being a blogger who shows great attitude and gratitude.



There are just a few rules for accepting this wonderful award:



- Put the Lemonade logo on your blog or within your post.



- Nominate at least 10 blogs with great attitude or gratitude.



- Link the nominees within your post.



- Let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.



- Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.



**Ok, so I nominate all of the same people I gave awards to in the first one!  But, since this one asks for 10, here are the other 3 (again, in no particular order.).



Val

Robyn

My main squeeze, Chris (guys are allowed in this one, right?)


Ok, now this one is the link one.  Also, from Rebekah (her link is up top, remember?)


Here are the rules:

1. Do quick post about the person that tagged you saying thanks

2. Answer the 10 questions

3.Tag 6 people

4. Follow 3 new blogs and list them

5. Challenge one person to do something fun or crazy



Here are the 10 questions:



1: Have you ever been to a rodeo?
Absolutely, nothin better than a Texas rodeo!



2: Have you ever tried to ride a cow?
Um, no.


3: Have you ever milked a cow or goat?
Nope.



4: Have you ever been to a Demolition Derby?
No, but I've thought about it!


5:

a:What is your favorite Country song?

Gotta go classic and say: Fancy




b: Who's the artist?
Reba!




6: Do you like to hunt?
houses



7: Have you ever cooked your breakfast over an open fire in your backyard?
Not in this one..cooked it in the front yard of one we lived in down in the North End, though.


8: Have you ever thought that the muck was shallow and when you stepped in it, you sank knee deep?
Not knee deep, but mid shin.


9: What is the hardest thing you have ever done?
Being a good and faithful servant, wife, and mommy is definitely the hardest thing I've done, and continue to do.  But, the rewards are overwhelming!



10: (The question is optional) What's one of your most embarrassing moments?
My son (3 at the time I think) pooping in my friends daughters room and then my friend went in thinkin her dogs had done it..and well, you can imagine the rest.  Horrible.  HORRIBLE!  Funny though.

For this I tag:

1. The followers of this blog!!

2. And anyone else who wants to do it!



I don't havea ny new blogs to follow right now..I don't read any without following so I have nothing new to follow without going out and finding them! 

Happy Sunday :)

My baby turned 14, and Steven Segal is still on TV

What a busy week!  We had Ash's 14th bday party and then her friend spent the night.  The party was soo loud, which isn't unusual, but it just seemed to hit a whole new octive (sp).  My friend, Tierney reminded me "They're making memories."  This made me reevaluate the "ITS SO LOUD IN HERE" comment.  I then enjoyed the noise..for about 3 minutes.  haha 

The next day we all went out shopping.  The girls got all that they "needed" and we got what were wanting too!  Had a nice lunch and a subpar dinner..but we were together and that's what matters :)  Our bedroom and bathroom are finally starting to come together.  Can't decide if I will end up painting or not.

My friend invited us to to go the Governor's dinner and ball this weekend, would have been a blast but we don't possess any black tie affair clothing..nor the money to get it..nor the time to go.  Can't wait to see the pictures though..hopefully she will get to sneek in some quality time with her sweet Daddy.  That family has always been so loving and welcoming to me, just love 'em. 

Tomorrow is J's last JBQ match of the "year", can you believe it!!!  Crazy.  I'm excited to get a break, but sad it's over.  Not sure if he will continue on next "year" or not.  We'll see.  Chris and I will most likely continue to be involved.  Ash hasn't decided yet either.

Went to clean the gym tonight with Jess.  Todd won't be able to help her for quite awhile I think.  So I'll fill in till he can.  Doesn't seem like work when we're together though.  We have so much fun laughing and laughing and laughing.  Feels so good to laugh.

Well, it's super late and I'm super exhausted.  Have a full weekend ahead of us, but that's not unusual :)  I'm excited to get to sleep in a bit on Sunday morning since quiz is over!  Ash still has to be there early..hmm..I wonder if she'd like to walk so we can all sleep in? Ok, you know I wouldn't allow that.

Oh, please pray for my friend Tiffany, she had her wisdom teeth pulled today! YEEOUCH!

BTW, I tried that new 5 layer burrito thingy at Taco Bell tonight. The commercials make it look disgusting, but it's not!  SO YUMMY!  Crunchwrap Supreme is still my fave, though.

I'm watching a Steven Segal movie..alone.  Is that weird to anyone?  LOL  Ok bye.

Putting Christmas stuff away is overrated..are the Bronco's? No.

So..I haven't put the Christmas stuff away.  I have put all of the downstairs stuff on the couch in a pile.  So it's at least moved.  The tree and nativity set are still up, upstairs.  The lights are still up outside and there is most likely a warning notice on the way from the HOA regarding the lights.  Joy!

Had a great first day back at (home)school with J today.  We laughed so hard..  He just cracks me up. 

I made chili today, and homemade mac n cheese.  Can't wait to eat!  Well, I'm not in the mood for chili, but mac n cheese will be good.  And it seems that I always make chili on a football game day..so why change now!  Plus it lasts forever which cuts down on my cooking for the next few days!

BSU is playing in the Fiesta Bowl in about an hour from now.  We will watch it at home.  My bro and his wife were gonna maybe come over but ended up having to go elsewhere.  So it will just be us at home.  Which is actually ok.  I'd love to have them here, but if they can't be here..this is the next best thing :)

Hope you've had a wonderful Monday!

That is my most favorite picture from Christmas.  Well actually I took it on Chris' birthday which is just a few days after Christmas.  But, you get the idea.

What a day it was..Bible Quiz, Church, lunch with friends, nap, drama practice at church and then news that my best friends hubby fell from their attic down to the floor of their garage.  Thank God he is ok.  And he better not scare any of us like that again!  He has a broken arm, a few broken ribs and a lot of bruising.  Thanks to all of you who prayed for him tonight.

Tomorrow we all go back to work/school, except for Ash.  Part of me is excited, part of me is sad to say goodbye to vacation!  But, my goodness, I love my life.  I'm sooo blessed.  SO thankful for all that has been given.

It takes a whole lot of work not to give up on life when things look bleak.  We can really muck things up on our own.  But change is just a step away.  Stepping into His grace is the easiest (and sometimes hardest!) thing to do.  His arms are open and they never tire of picking us up.

Today I am reminded that blessings are all around us.  Sometimes it takes a bit more looking around in order to find them.  But..here's the thing.  I think that when it takes us a bit longer to find them, it's not because they are small..or hidden..or few.  It's because we've allowed our vision to be clouded.  If we take off the blinders, the blessings are overwhelmingly abundant.  We weren't created to live lives of mediocrity.  Blinders stunt growth.

My ears have been fine tuned to the things people claim lately.  Everywhere I go I hear it..stores, restaurants, get togethers, church, conversations (mine included), the mall..wherever..I hear it.  Louder than I hear anything else.  Sickness.  Poverty.  Depression.  Hatred.  All the things we claim over ourselves without even realizing it.  We are what we eat.  Truly.  This week, listen to your words.  Listen to everything that comes out of your mouth.  Man it's a real eye opener.  Let's speak life into ourselves and those around us!  It's just a choice.  May not feel it at first, but before you know it, things will begin to change.  You don't have to be sick.  You don't have to be in pain.   You don't have to be poor..fat..angry..depressed..tired...lonely..blah blah blah..it's not required.  It's all up to YOU.  That's pretty dang freeing if you ask me.  The enemy may put up a good fight, but we've got the victory in Jesus name.  And no weapon formed against us will prosper.  If you speak it, you give life to it.  What are you speaking?  What are you bringing to life?

Have a wonderful week.  Love you bunches and am looking forward to being part of your life this year as we both grow in Him together. 

And, He hears the sound of my hearts cry...THE SUN IS OUT TODAY!!!  I mean REALLY out.  I mean it BLINDED me!  MAGNIFICENT! Thank you, Father, for your many blessings! 

Well..I guess I'm in a funk.  I keep coming here to my blog..but don't have much (if anything) to write about.  I changed the layout hoping it would inspire me.  Nope.  It may have to do with the lack of sunshine.  Winter absolutely sucks.  I was determined to enjoy it this year.  But, I'm not.  I just want sun.  I need it.  Must have it.  COME BACK!

 No I don't have SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).  I just like sun.  And I hate it when it's not here.  I tend to throw infantile fits over it.  My house is already a bit dark so when it's winter time (or a rainy day in some other season) it's just waaaaay dark in here.  I grew up in sunshine and have always lived in houses with a ton of windows allowing natural light in.  Not this house though.  Not sure why that is.  It seemed light enough the day we came and picked it out.  I've tried those special lights that are supposed to trick my brain into thinking it's sunny.  My brain is too smart for that.  It knows it's just a lightbulb.  I know they help some, and that's great.  Happy for you!

I made some delicious chicken enchiladas the other night.  Finished them off today.  Dang, they were good!  Not sure what to have tonight..Chris keeps asking, but I just can't decide.  I'm not real hungry..just real thirsty!  And, I guess water isn't really food.  hmm  I wouldn't mind a huge salad with tons of fresh veggies added in and maybe some cranberries and grilled chicken..and avocados of course.  Oh man that sounds delish.  And a nice tall glass of iced tea.  Yummy.

I've been buying these apples from Winco that are SO stinkin delicious you can't even begin to imagine.  Crunchy and perfectly sweet and juicy.  Man, they're good.  They come from Washington.  I can't remember if they are Fiji or Gala.  I usually buy one of those kinds anyway (even though Jonathan is my fave) but this particular "brand" is divine.

Sick of sweets. I just don't want anymore.  We had a lot of chocolate dipped fruit last night and that was delish.  But, just straight sweets..I need a break!  Just thought I'd share :)

Christmas stuff is still up.  Will you please come take it down?  Please?  I just know that has to be SOMEONE's hobby! 

School starts again for J and me on Monday.  I'm excited.  I've missed that time with him, even though it can get intense (I'm sure there is a better word than intense..just can't think of it right now).  Anyway, I love how with homeschooling we both get vacations throughout the year.  Ash doesn't go back for another week still.

How was your Christmas?  How was your New Years?  You already know about my Christmas from previous posts.  Our New Years was great, though!  We went and played games and ate lots of goodies with our friends.  Was an easy, fun, laughter filled night.  Then we came home and passed out..then got up and went to clean up at church at 7 from the Youth Lock In they'd had on New Years Eve.  I expected to have to clean for hours but they had already done just about everything!  We just had to vacuum and tidy up the chairs and kitchen.  Blessing!!  After that we came home and passed out again.  We've been lazy all day. 

J and Chris are coloring.  We're watching Jingle All The Way..has Phil Hartman in it.  That makes Chris sad.  He loved Phil (he's passed away).

Well, I'm done blabbing for now.  Love you guys :)


Here's a quote I love:

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore,
is not an act but a habit.
~Aristotle~