A Journey Called Life

2012-02-13T17:15:00.002-05:00

LOVE

Heart thoughts

2012-02-11T14:17:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I received a call from a sweet someone, she made my day ;) More times than not I give the thoughts in my head more importance than the feelings of my heart. I've always believed in people. I am a person of second chances and like giving people the benefit of the doubt. I don't like assuming the worst and like to be open minded. Lately it seems that I am hardly that person. Yesterday I got a call from a friend who's heart I've been on, she wanted to let me know that she was thinking of me and keeping me in her prayers. It reminded me of the good that is in people. We all get busy. We all have trials. We all get caught up in our day to day stuff. I do. You do too. I should make more calls. I could spare more time. After all, what we bind here on earth, we bind in heaven. Sometimes what you give isn't enough. We all crave a tangible God. We are His hands and feet. I want to start using them! Just like this sweet someone did for me.

Since my last post...

2012-01-26T20:26:00.001-05:00

...life hasn't got any easier, to say the least. I've had to adjust and just handle each day with prayer. Through all this I have realized how much I have changed. I don't know when the change began. I miss the way old me handled problems. She handled them with passion and optimism. The new me, throws dirt over problems and pretends they aren't there. The main reason for this is, I am tired of dealing with the same drama over and over. I lost myself somewhere...while being a mother, wife and the person everyone else needed and wanted me to be. The day I decided I was done with this pattern, I was made aware that it was going to cost me. I gave up a lot that day, and I've been at war with myself ever since.

In other news, I registered Pretty for her first Still Waters Camp experience. She was of course, ECSTATIC! I on the other hand...cried. The way I feel about her going is a bittersweet feeling. I know this will be a life changing experience for her, and know she is blessed to have such a wonderful place to go to. However, reality slaps my cheek and its painful. I have to let go, and I am not ready. How I will deal with the fact that she is growing and will not always be at mommy's side, I don't know...

I've been traveling again. Hugs has been very homesick, so I've been trying to bring home to him. One day I was having a really hard time with personal issues. It was then that I realized, when he has bad days, he has to deal with them alone. I decided then that I would stop being so selfish and try hard to make this lifestyle work. I've missed a lot but at the end of the day, my family and the what our four walls consist of has to have a strong foundation in order to survive this journey. Yes, I need compassion and understanding from those that love me. Its not personal, but its definitely something I can't change right now.

Speaking of travel...we are going back to Cali. Just for a visit. We've tried to get Hugs family to come see us for the last 3 years and I guess they don't miss us as much as we miss them! So, we are coming to them. We will be gone for 3 weeks. Seems long but it will go by too fast, I'm sure. We will be there for Pretty's 13th birthday, we plan on going to Disneyland where we celebrated her 1st birthday.

Well friends, this is all for today. My coffee is cold and I have a pretty girl waiting on my full attention.

Goodbye. Hello.

2011-12-31T14:40:00.002-05:00

Imperfection is the only thing I've done perfectly.

Today is the last day of 2011. So many thoughts and emotions are flooding me. So much happened this year. I am so grateful to the Lord for allowing me to experience all these blessings. I will admit that the earlier part of 2011 was much easier than the end. With December came many trials, which I continue to fight daily. I'm not a sob story, I am simply being molded and boy is the Potter having a hard time with this old worn lump of clay! I am my own worse enemy. I am my highest hurdle.

If I could describe 2011 in only 4 words, they would be "God Never Failed Me." Day in and day out, He is the ONLY thing I can count on 100%!

As I sit here and pour myself out, I look back on this year and think "Lord, you really know how to make me smile!"

My fondest memories & milestones of 2011 are:

-My little sister & her family moved here from California.
-Mom came to visit.
-Hugs and I celebrated our 13 year anniversary.
-We welcomed a pretty little girl into the family.
-Hugs accepted a new job title/promotion.
-September 17th was our 7 year anniversary of when the Lord revealed His word to us & we accepted His invitation to walk according to His will (we fail at this daily but, the Potter is still molding.)
-I witnessed the Lord free a dear friends life from a life of addiction.
-Took a much need vacation to Florida for 10 days.
-My sister & Jimmys visit from California & our trip to Chicago together.
-Celebrating the holidays with my sisters and nephews. It was the first time we had all the kids together for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

In 2012 I look forward & hope to:

-See Hugs family (its been 3 long years)
-Behold what once seemed like far fetched dream of my sister moving here (she swore she would never ever EVER move here)
-Cheer my mom on her graduating with her Masters!
-Sleep less.
-Survive Prettys leave to YF camp.
-Not go crazy when I realize that at 32 I'm a mother to a teenager.
-PRAY PRAY PRAY
-Easter 2012...I feel like it will be a special one
-Getting out to witness when I travel with Hugs

But what I look forward to the most, is seeing Gods work in our family and to one day share my testimony of Gods grace to us with you. This is my GREATEST desire, and I would gladly give up ALL for this one thing.

I desire that the Lord open the windows of heaven and pour out His blessing on you.

Goodbye 2011. Hello 2012.

I'm.

2011-12-17T21:02:00.000-05:00

I'm tired. I'm confused. I'm hurt. I'm imperfect. I'm emotional. I'm angry. I'm sorry. I'm scarred. I'm healing. I'm cautious. I'm surrendering. I'm conceding. I'm stubborn. I'm vulnerable. I'm failing. I'm fighting...

I'm loved. I'm cherished. I'm blessed. I'm forgiven. I'm saved. I'm grateful. I'm free. I'm His. I'm passionate. I'm trying. I'm hopeful. I'm waiting. I'm believing.

I'm defiantly a work-in-progress.

In case you have wondered...

2011-11-12T17:45:00.001-05:00

...what I'm up to these days, Ive been: raking leaves, attending basketball practices, babysitting my other children, helping my sister move (again), Christmas shopping, coordinating Thanksgiving dinner, and wishing Fall would never end.

I haven't been traveling with Hugs the last few weeks. Although I have wanted to go, it seems as though I'm always compromised to something. I had planned on going to Illinois with him last week, but each week brings a new surprise and come Monday...surprise surprise, I was not able to go. I literally grieved the whole week. I'm typically not the kind of person who loves to mope around and feel sorry for myself. I normally refuse to give into my emotions and allow them to fog the view of a very blessed life. But Monday, I was just not me. I guess its normal for a girl to have those days...I thought I wasn't your average girl.

I am still trying to find a balance. I am often advised to not make a big deal about it and just stay home. Traveling, I'm told isn't the way I'm supposed to live. It seems like for most, the decision would be easy. "Stay home and enjoy your time alone" they say.

I will wait and continue to look up for my answers. I find my comfort in Jesus and His faithfulness. I love the way He loves me. He amazes me everyday! He's blessed my life with wonderful people who love and pray for me faithfully. I can feel and see their prayers. They are who I call "my few, but true". I'm praying for you too!

I'm a little beat up, but not defeated!

Until fingers meet keyboard again,

Me.

Beautiful change

2011-10-14T11:51:00.000-04:00

This morning I woke to sunny skies :) So grateful to the Lord who cares about all the little things.

Wisconsin and then some

2011-10-13T23:38:00.001-04:00

Although I've been traveling lately, it hasn't been for business its been for pleasure. Well, its back to work this week and work brought us to Wisconsin. I had a plan last week to make this feel like a get-away but I didn't plan on being sick. The last few weeks I hadn't followed Hugs anywhere. I was so exhausted and really wanted to be home. Well, that worked for a little while but we found that the distance brings on issues that we can otherwise avoid if I can just make the effort to follow as much as possible. I am defiantly struggling to find a balance.

We leave tomorrow but not headed home. We are stopping in Michigan City for a couple of days. We have heard so much about the Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan, and want to see this wonder for ourselves. The weather forecast is calling for high 50's to low 60's, that's not my kind of weather! So, I'm praying for a good change in weather.

Tomorrow morning I'll be driving away with a smile, bidding this place good-bye. I'm sure I won't miss it and don't plan on coming back soon.

Family Part II

2011-10-05T22:08:00.000-04:00

SkyDeck view

Beautiful view

P.D.A.

Pretty view

<3 Sisters <3

Sis & Bro-In-Law

Chicago Dogs

Charming Pan-handlers

I like this view

Bro-In-Laws

Big Sis, Little Sis

Just plain Pretty

Fishy Kiss

Family

2011-10-05T20:18:00.000-04:00

Last week my little sis flew in from Cali with her boyfriend Jimmy. It had been a long 2 years since I last seen her.

Her visit was short, but we managed to fit in lots of time for fun and making memories. The day she arrived we had a family fall get-together. I nearly killed myself with all the cooking, but I survived. I am so grateful for my crazy, nutty, and dysfunctional family! We ended the night with a warm bonfire and fireworks.

The next few days consisted of: couples only dinner, Seymour Fall Fest, a visit to Louisville Zoo, gun range shooting, shopping, lots of eating, and a 2 day visit to Chicago. I'm going to post more on my experience in Chi in a separate post because this post is about family.

My sis flew back home yesterday...I miss her already! I pray God grants me the blessing of seeing her again real soon.

Florida II

2011-09-22T16:23:00.000-04:00

Beauty & the Beach

Evening in Pompano Beach

Friends farm in Georgia

Another evening on Pompano Beach

Hugs favorite photo

The Coolest Tourist & Cutest too!

Sunrise (7:07am)

Boogie Boarding Never Looked This Good

~~Happy~~ Pretty Feet

Boogie Boarding

Florida

2011-09-21T16:21:00.000-04:00

I've been back for 3 days and I feels like I've been here for weeks. I might still be in vacation mode. In case you didn't read my last post, I've been frolicking in the Atlantic Ocean :) We took a 10 day vacation to Fort Lauderdale, FL. 6 words. I.CANT.WAIT.TO.GO.BACK! Seriously. We stayed at the Wyndham Resorts with some friends who own a time share. We stayed in Florida for 8 days and then drove to Georgia and stayed there for 2 days. We stopped in to visit a believing brother, his lovely mother, and their sweet friends. I liked them so much, we may adopt them as family :)

Remember how I didn't want to go to Florida? Up until the day of our departure, I frowned as we got into the car. NO JOKE. I've been dubbed "Debbie Downer". ANYWAY, the Lord blessed our trip from beginning to end. I must give Him the glory He deserves and acknowledge His blessings. To begin with, Florida's forecast read: daily thunderstorms & hurricane warnings. I complained about this over and over in the week prior to our departure. Well, it stayed sunny and beautiful everyday we were there. The rain started as soon as we left. The day we left, we went to pick up our car rental. There was a glitch in the system and they didn't have our reservation. Long story short, we got the vehicle we requested along with a $250 discount AND an extra day rental free! He also blessed us with new friends, and wonderful fellowship. Hugs and I didn't realize how much we needed that.

I promise I will post some pictures. I am out of time for today, but please check back soon.

Home

2011-08-31T23:24:00.000-04:00

I decided to stay home this week. I'm glad I did. Although, going to Chicago sounded fun at first, Hugs informed me that we would be staying for a couple days and then driving to Milwaukee and staying there for a couple days too. That's when it all lost its appeal! I miss Hugs mucho grande, but I don't regret staying home. I love home. He will be back for the weekend and has to leave again on Monday. I am undecided if I want to tag along. I think I want to stay. The same night he gets back, we will pack our bags and head to Florida for 9 days.

Florida is actually a vacay, no business on this trip (I HOPE). It was a surprise. Most ladies would be ecstatic if there husband called and said "were going to Florida baby". I wasn't. Much to Hugs dismay, he didn't get the reaction he wanted. Long story. I am still trying really hard to get excited about it...I know. I'm complicated that way.

I have so much more to share but it will have to be at a later date. It's late and I have a special date tomorrow ;) So, I'm off to bed.

Toodles.

Lowdown. Rundown.

2011-08-23T23:05:00.000-04:00

Have I become high maintenance or is this place as gross as it looks?!

We are staying at the Wingate by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts in Blue Ash, OH. The place compares to a Motel 6 but at rooms starting at $144!

Last week we stayed at Wingate in Indianapolis and the place was NICE! Wingate offers some complimentary extras for guests, like: Dinner on Tuesdays, Wine, cold beverages & popcorn on Thursdays and Fridays, free unlimited bottled water & granola bars, and hot coffee & chocolate all day. Not to mention they provide Neutrogena toiletries. There was a full-time guy assigned to tend to the plants, and the housekeepers sanitize the stair wells daily.

SO, I drive up to the Blue Ash Wingate...dry landscape. NOT a good impression. The lobby was dingy and the maintenance men were sitting there doing nothing but speaking in an unknown language (unknown to me). They just stared and made us feel very uncomfortable. Thankfully the front desk lady looked very professional. The room looked like a place a horror movie could have been filmed, well... maybe not that bad. Haha. Tonight's complimentary dinner consisted of two flavors of chicken wings. They looked as if they were thawed out and stuck in a microwave to warm up. The pool was murky and moldy. None of the ice machines work. We requested a double queen bed suite and we got a double full bed suite with no microwave.

Did I just ramble on about a hotel experience? Someone get me out of here!

Duh

2011-08-12T15:46:00.000-04:00

All the fast food and laying around isn't fueling my body. I am bloated and sluggish. I am ready to go home and make some real food and sit at the table and eat like civilized human beings.

Headed home tomorrow for two days, then heading out again. We won't know what our destination will be until Sunday. I'm hoping for some place near a large body of water, lots of eclectic consignment shops and frozen yogurt.

WAIT! I have that here...why haven't I taken advantage??? Must be because I have no fuel in my body to get me going. DUH!

Observation

2011-08-10T12:37:00.000-04:00

I made a funny and interesting observation today while hanging out in our hotel room. Whether we are home or abroad, we tend to assume our normal roles. Dad & Pretty lay in bed watching TV, while I pay bills online, organize our clothes in the closet, and make the extra bed. LOL. Dad calls it my "psycho" mood, I say "I cant help it, mom-ing is what I do 24/7 365".

These days...

2011-08-09T12:26:00.000-04:00

...I feel like I'm suspended in the air. Not knowing if I will be lifted higher or be let down suddenly and harshly. Life doesnt feel like life. I sometimes feel as though I'm not living. I feel like Im just existing. Plans change with very little notice. I'm tired but I most remain possitive.

Hello.

2011-08-04T22:47:00.000-04:00

Did you miss me?

I've been home for 3 weeks. Somehow 1 week turned into 3. Its been nice. I am however, ready for another break. Hugs warned me that things will get hectic from here on out. School starts in 2 weeks, so we are going to try and work-in some fun family end of summer stuff somewhere. We have some adjustments to make, and I think I'm ready to take on the challenge.

I'll be posting from Ohio next week. Check back soon.

Rest? I think not.

2011-07-19T15:13:00.001-04:00

Well kiddos, my weekend and week so far have been FAR from what I envisioned.

We got in late Friday, made it back in 12 hrs! I wanted to chill with Pretty on Saturday and possibly have some friends over for BBQ on Sunday. Well Saturday morning I woke up vomiting, then I was surprised by an UNWANTED visitor. My period (please excuse my forwardness). I was so emotional I spent most of the day on the couch cuddling with a pillow. We ended up at the mall later that afternoon to look for some pants because all of Hugs pants and shirts are "shrinking" (total mystery) ;) We left the mall only to find out that our car wouldn't start. Long story short, Hugs spent most of Sunday fixing our car, and we never got around to our BBQ with friends or any relaxing.

I'll be home for the rest of the week and possibly next week too :) Then its back to the travel schedule for a couple of weeks.

Lots to do this week, mainly babysitting. I want to spend as much of my free time with those I love and commit to doing more with them when I'm home.

I'll check back soon. Maybe.

Day 4

2011-07-14T11:09:00.000-04:00

Making the long drive home tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to a quiet kick-back weekend at home with my family.

Be back soon, but not too soon :)

Day 3...

2011-07-13T12:18:00.001-04:00

feels like day 5...I'm tired and VERY READY to wrap my arms around Pretty.

The rest of yesterday consisted of the same things I did on day 1, with the exception of a HUGE bonus. Hugs took me to New York! New York City is only 40 mins from Parsippany, NJ. We had no plan and just winged it. He worked a long day yesterday and after heading to dinner around 7, we made a spontaneous move and decided to just go.

We entered NY through the Kennedy Bridge, then the madness began! For those that have been to NY and witnessed this craziness for yourselves, you'll know exactly what I'm describing. For those who have never been there, I will try my best to explain the chaotically delightful place that is NYC.

I don't know how anyone in there right mind could live there. NY is a different world. Its like stepping out of a hot tub and diving right into the Pacific ocean. SHOCK! I'd heard of this crazy place but never in my wildest dreams expected to see what I saw. As I stood on the corner of Broadway and 7th st. looking through postcards to bring home to Pretty, I searched and searched for just ONE card that remotely held the essence and vibrancy of what my eyes were looking at. NONE! I doubt that a lens has ever captured NYC and was able to express through the photo what its really like. Its like San Fransisco x100! There is no separation by class. The rich walk with the poor. They all take the same cabs, walk the same streets, and live on the same streets.Its a game of survival. You either keep up with the pace or get ran over. There are NYPD kiosks in every corner. God forbid your house should catch fire! I witnessed the NYFD trying to get from one block to the next. Your home would probably be burned to the ground before the fire dept. made its way across a one lane st. that looks more like an alley, while cars drive onto the sidewalk and almost hit pedestrians in order to get out of the firetrucks way! It seemed as though the people of NYC had just woke up. Have you ever seen how ants run out of their ant holes after being drowned out by water? That's what the people reminded me of. I've never seen so many human bodies in my life!!! The lights...OH the lights!...shocking. Mind boggling. Ridiculously delightful. But the most AMAZING thing about NYC is the skyline!!! Surrounded by water and with all its lights the way it glares on the water. BREATH-TAKING!!!

One question that kept coming to mind was, how did NY developed into what it is today? There is no normal. All is extreme.

We drove back to the hotel in total silence. Probably because our minds kept trying to take in what we had just saw.

Day 2

2011-07-12T10:07:00.000-04:00

Mixed emotions about so many things, is my current mood. Its day 2 in Jersey and I try and imagine this being long term and I'm not seeing it. I imagine this day after day, month after month and the more I ponder on it, the less I see this working out.

Right now I feel like I'm on vacation, alone. Continental breakfast (that is more like a breakfast buffet), housekeepers cleaning up after me, swimming, soaking in spa, long work outs, reading, blogging, studying, eating healthy, and even doing a little shopping (little). But I'm doing it all alone. Normally, Pretty would be with me. So, my view on this may change once I've experienced this with her for a week.

I don't want anyone worrying about me, PLEASE! I wanted this blog to become my outlet and means to express ALL I'm feeling and experiencing on this journey. I want to be able to look back on past posting, months from now or even years from now and remember all I experienced on this journey through my raw, explicit, and honest emotions.

My next posting will be more cheerful. I promise.

Day 1

2011-07-11T10:21:00.000-04:00

Good morning kiddos. Today is Hugs first day on the job and my first day on this crazy journey.

We arrived in New Jersey at 11:45pm. It was a 14 hr drive! There was so much road construction in Ohio, and we witnessed two major car accidents. But finally made it in safe and sore. I have to add that I am very proud of me :) I only asked Hugs to stop twice (pee break)! I'm usually the annoying person who pees every hour on the hour. A nightmare to a driver who is trying to get somewhere at a certain time. My secret? No coffee, water or tea. A difficult sacrifice but worth the bragging points :)

I'm going to finish up my coffee and take a hot shower. Ill check in later.

Be back soon

2011-07-09T08:31:00.000-04:00

We leave tomorrow morning for Parsippany, NJ. We will be right by the Atlantic Ocean, and only a few miles from NY! We will be back Friday (really late).

I'll post again when I reach my destination.

Anxiety

2011-07-08T11:14:00.000-04:00

My anxiety level is very high today. I am a naturally nervous person. I get nervous about almost everything! It really stinks!

I keep thinking that I need to hire a housekeeper while I am gone so that I don't come home to a dusty dirty house. I'm getting extremely nervous about my bed. I keep thinking that when we get home I will find bedbugs or spiders in my bed...I feel as though my house will be neglected. I am also considering hiring a landscaper. I would hate to be "that house" on the block where the "typical Mexicans" live. lol. Yes, I have a bit of a chip on shoulder. I am VERY particular about my yard work. Curb appeal is very important to me (it may be because I worked in real estate for 5 yrs). All Ive done for the last few days is organize my closets, drawers, and cabinets. I know that if I leave without making the house look & feel clean I will be TOTALLY MISERABLE on the trip. I know what your thinking...O.C.D...(sigh)...

I'm leaving to New Jersey on Sunday night and wont be back until next Saturday. We will be home for one day and then leave to Chicago. SO, I have 3 days to get this house right.

Wish me luck (not that I believe in luck, its just sounds right on this line). Yes, I KNOW...freak!

Testimony

2011-07-07T10:06:00.001-04:00

This isn't related to traveling, maps, or suitcases. This post is about a little faith.

Last night at church we listened to the second half of "Be Not Afraid". I hadn't heard a message with a prayer line in quite a while. Pretty and I held hands and prayed for Hugs healing. He was diagnosed with Scheuermann's disease a few years ago and although he has never accepted it, his back is always in pain. Lately it has gotten worse. A little about me now so you can fully understand the way the Lord spoke directly to me last night. I have problems in my chest. I deal with alot of different things like: flutters, chest pain, shortness of breath, sharp pains etc.

I kept Hugs on my mind as I listened to Brother Branhams prayers for needy people. I kept believing for Hugs. Then it was our time! He said "You believe me to be His servant with all your heart? Your trouble's in your chest. That's right. But there keeps being somebody else appearing there. It's your husband. He's not here, but you had him on your mind. You was praying for him. That's right. You believe God can tell me what his trouble is? It's in his back. That's right, isn't it? Now, you believe you're going home--go home find him all right. All right. Then just go right on that...?... and believe with all your heart, and you'll find it just the way you believe".

If you don't believe in miracles, that's your lose. God doesn't change His ways! He healed then, He heals today, and He will heal tomorrow.

For I am the LORD, I do not change- Mal. 3:6

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today, and forever- Heb. 13:8

All the things...

2011-07-06T17:34:00.000-04:00

we take for granted.

Making the transition of living out of a briefcase, has opened my eyes to some wonderful things I've taken for granted. My house plants for example. Its hard enough finding someone to water your outdoor plants and pick up your mail, let alone finding someone to baby-sit your house plants. LOL. Whats totally weird is that last week, two of my house plants started dying! Ive had them for so long, they were super green and healthy. Its like they knew what lurked ahead. Strange.

Some other things I might miss (besides the obvious):

my bed
my coffee maker
my kitchen
home cooked meals
tending to my garden
grocery shopping

Things I think I wont miss:

doing the dishes
cleaning the toilet
laundry
picking up dog poop

I'm sure they will be more to say on this subject later on :)

Notice any changes?

2011-07-05T16:59:00.000-04:00

Because Hugs is very private in nature, I kept quiet about the drastic changes that were changing our lives. No, were not pregnant! As you can tell by my new template, we will be on the road A LOT.

Hugs has accepted a Regional Maintenance Tech. position (same company). What this means for us, besides a small pay increase IS, we will be away from home about 3 weeks a month. It took us two months to decide to give it a shot. Because he will be on the road so much, Pretty and I are given the choice of seeing him one week a month or tagging along. Hardly anything will come out of our pockets. Gas, food, and hotel expenses are all paid.

Changes abroad means changes at home. Because a company vehicle will be provided for him, we decided to sell the truck. We also made the hard decision of letting Charlie go (our dog). I put an ad on Craigslist and 20 interviews, 6 meetings, and 2 over night stays later, we still haven't successfully placed him. I renewed my ad today and pray to God we can find him the right family.

This will now be the place where I will blab, vent, share, express, update, etc the challenges, discoveries, sacrifices, benefits, rewards, etc of our lives on the road.

Today is Day 1. Although we are home this week, this journey has begun.

I hope you will come back and check on me because, this is where you will find me :)

Its been a long time. Too long.

2011-05-18T13:13:00.000-04:00

I have so much to say, so many pictures to show-off. I am competely over whelmed by all I want to post.

We are seeing end of our school year, and I'm starting to see my calendar slowly clearing up too. What a great feeling. It been an incredibly challenging year for me (for us).

I envy all the "busy" moms who have time to blog, run around with their kids, and spend an hour on the bleachers cheering on their kid/s. My desires to serve others, has been a burden that Hugs and Pretty have had to carry too. All in the end for few to say thank you. Not that I need a thank you BUT a friendly smile goes a LONG way. Oh well...I'm not sure of much, but of one thing I am sure! I can ONLY serve God by serving His children (those are not my words, they are His)! So, that's where I find my strength.

Much has come and gone...Pretty turned 12 in March. Of course I wanted to post but never got around to it. Hugs and I had our 13 year anniversary in April, I thought I would post then but never got around to it. Mothers Day came and went, still no time for blogging...

There were a few weeks back, when I would come to schedule something and I had to be reminded of the date because I had totally lost my place in time. There was even a day when I had something scheduled and I showed up only to find an empty room! LOL. I had showed up on the wrong day. My days consisted of nausea and nervousness.

This week I have little planned. It feels so good to just clean my house, stay in my pj's, sit down and learn with my favorite girl, play a board game, blog, email friends who have been waiting for MONTHS for a reply, read, cook every night, the list could go on. Next week is a bit busy. But for now, I am thoroughly enjoying this week :)

I will be posting some photos of the last few months, some time soon. I promise :)

Toodles.

Butterfly

2011-02-19T11:19:00.000-05:00

Two weeks later and I'm still not back to normal! What is normal anyway?

The last month and a half was nothing like I expected. I have found out so much about myself. I visited some ugly places, places I thought I would never face again. Its easy to feel like I am taking steps back, but not even I believe that. I see miracles everyday. Some are very personal, and others I am convinced only I can appreciate.

I see so many struggling and fighting...I stay in prayer and watch miracles take place. Right now we feel like cacoons and worms battered and broken trying to break free, but wait for in a little while, for our wings you shall see!

I heart YF.org

2011-02-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

My miracle today is youngfoundations.org!

Cloudy

2011-01-31T15:24:00.000-05:00

Some days are so cloudy, its hard to see your miracle...

Humerous miracle

2011-01-24T12:14:00.000-05:00

I was up at 5:45 looking out the window and I noticed that it snowed again. Little did I know that Pretty had prayed for more snow. What made me laugh was, this morning when I came into her room she was sitting up in bed smiling. I asked her "whats so funny"? To which she replyed "last night I prayed for more snow but I also prayed that Monkey would still have to go to school (Monkey is her cousin, he is living with us right now and he is driving her nuts). I laughed! How is it that she got exactly what she asked for?

I want pure simple faith like that!

Journey of miracles.

2011-01-22T15:20:00.000-05:00

Sometimes life needs to get really crazy before you are really able to appreciate all the wonderful things you are blessed with everyday. At least this is the case for me.

I tell myself daily that I will stay positive and see the good in everything, but I fail at it everyday.

I believe with all my heart that NOTHING in my life is a coincidence. EVERYTHING happens for a reason. Every person I encounter, every conversation I engage in, every situation good or bad...and if ALL works for the good of those that love the Lord (and I do) then I must face each day with a good attitude, and thank the Lord for every situation I face daily.

I changed my blog header. I am going to try and post more often. I want my blog to be a journal of miracles, BIG and small. It is an attempt to share with you, my thanksgiving to the Lord for all that takes place in my life.

Wonderful her.

2011-01-20T19:03:00.000-05:00

Today was unplanned and randomly wonderful. I spent most of my day with a wonderful person, whom I admire and love very much! Six hours came and went too fast.

This wonderful person has a special way of making my heavy burdens, feel so light. This is because she walks by my side and helps carry my burdens with prayer and compassion.

Today she was my miracle.

I love her to pieces.

Miracles

2011-01-18T13:21:00.000-05:00

I know I've experienced a miracle everyday of my life, I've just been to busy contemplating on the negative to see the miraculous unfolding before me.

My miracle today?...family. We are all different, VERY different. But I'm glad I have them!

Holding on

2011-01-17T11:56:00.002-05:00

When you think you've reached the end of your rope, tie a knot and hold on tight!

Manger & a Cross

2010-12-25T23:56:00.000-05:00

A manger and a cross saved my life.

Lifes journey

2010-12-08T10:46:00.000-05:00

In this journey called life, I have been to many places. Some I hope to never go again, and others I cant wait to go back too. I'm not talking about destinations. I'm talking about life.

December 4th, was our Indiana anniversary. We've been here for 6 years now. Its a date I celebrate everyday. I still get butterflies when I think of how excited we were when we got here. A few weeks ago we took a drive out to the country, when fall was in all its slender. As I took in all the beauty surrounding us, I cried and cried. I STILL cant believe I'm here! It wasn't the country or the gold, red and oranges leaves...it was remembering where life had taken me, and how the Lord found me.

Ive been asked many times where I'm from. When I answer, the reaction is the same "California"? "Why Indiana"?!?! Life has taken me through some ugly places...and although most cant see the beauty the Lord saw in this little town, I can.

A few years ago, my biggest struggle was; looking back. I could seem to gasp why I'd been chosen to live for God. You have no idea what Ive seen and done... It couldn't accept that I was forgiven. It took me a long time to forgive myself. In my desperation I begged the Lord for comforting words.

He gave me Jeremiah 29:11-14.

11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back from your captivity; I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you to the place from which I cause you to be carried away captive.

I imagined my battered and broken body being carried in His strong and mighty arms, and all things that had a hold of me, loosing their grip at His authority.

Life has drug me through some ugly places...but where I'm headed... this life I'll leave behind.

Purpose. It's just a nicer word for busy.

2010-12-07T09:23:00.000-05:00

Life is a bit chaotic right now...why am I lying to you, its VERY chaotic right now! I've been trying to get up extra early everyday, so I can do all the regular things I usually do for our family, and still have time to do all the other things I do for everyone else.

My feet hurt so bad yesterday, that it was painful getting out of bed to use the restroom! Today will be much like today...I have school, ISA fundraising, Christmas program practice, basketball, mail pick-up for a friend, grocery shopping...need I say more?

I'm not complaining, I promise! I'm just exhaling out loud :)

My little sis moves in, in 3 weeks. I have to find time to steam stairs, give the basement a fresh coat of paint, and find a place to put all the home school grp.'s stuff.

But you know what? I believe with all my heart that I can only serve God but serving His people. Someone said to me the other day "you do too much, by being a mom and a wife your serving your family, so why do you do so much for everyone else"? It's simple. Brother Branham spoke about true JOY. J for Jesus, O for others, Y for you.

Busy just means that I'm blessed with a life of purpose :) So begins another day... Dr. Schohls gel inserts, here I come! Are you gel'in? HaHa.

Commit random acts of kindness & have a wonderfully blessed day.

Sky basketball

2010-12-05T21:04:00.000-05:00

Last night Pretty played her first basketball game. She plays at Graceland Baptist Church. She chose #2 as her number. Sky is the name of her team. She likes her coach very much, but I wish he was tougher! Their moto is "Play with a Purpose".

Warming up.

Pre-game prayer.

Biting nails. Mom & Dad were nervous too!

Game time.

#2 in action.

Notice the scoreboard...Team Sky's first lose.

Good game.

Check it out!

2010-11-27T20:12:00.000-05:00

Visit my food blog at http://ohsoveryyumee.blogspot.com/

Thank You Lord!

2010-11-27T12:39:00.000-05:00

Pretty entertained us with beautiful piano music.

Cristiano & Mommy

Bow ties & Big eyes.

Thanksgiving

Doorbusting Suz

I needed some lipgloss!

Centerpieces.

This year was a special Thanksgiving, the Lord blessed us with two new family members: Mirium, my cousin Isaacs new bride, and little Evan Cristiano. We also had six special visitors join us for dinner: Miriums sisters from Italy, and the Newtons.

While family, food, & laughter are great, I'm grateful for the cross above all else!

Blog boo boo

2010-11-27T10:45:00.000-05:00

I am not sure how the last post was posted up...I never finished typing before I got busy and left my laptop on my coffee table. Next thing I know, I have a new comment from my last post...lol. Anywho, I do have more to share about my Thanksgiving.

Stayed posted!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-26T18:41:00.000-05:00

I love everything about Thanksgiving! All the way from what it means to all the yummy food!

Someone said to me that Thanksgiving is all about food & family. I was a little sad to hear that. To me Thanksgiving means that God paved a path that his Word would travel one day to reach His predestinated children. When the English men, women, and children braved that long and cold ocean voyage, it was religous freedom they were seeking. This paved the way for christianity.

I survived

2010-11-07T20:06:00.000-05:00

the weekend
the home school meeting
all the leaves and yard work
painting the kitchen

I sat down yesterday to fill out my calendar with all the events that will be taking up our days from Nov.-Feb. As I sat there and filled week after week, I got knots in my stomach. On top of all that will be going on in the following months, I will need to find time to clean out my basement, re-paint all the walls, and have the stairs cleaned because my sister and family are moving in the first week of January.

Busy means Im blessed with good health, family, and purpose! Hope you're busy too ; )

Have a great week.

Prisoner

2010-11-04T13:32:00.000-04:00

I'm a prisoner, are you? Why would anyone want to be a prisoner? Prisoners give up all their freedom to do what they want; they are no longer free to make any decisions for themselves.

Christ is looking for prisoners.

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.

Update in brief. Real brief.

2010-11-03T22:43:00.000-04:00

Special K diet (didnt work)
Spilled coffee on my laptop (had to buy a new one)
Survived the first 60 days of home schooling (120 days left...)
Prayers answered. My little sister and her family are moving to J-ville in January.
Havent made it to the pumpin patch, and my mums are already dying.
First attempt at making bread pudding was successful.
Raking leaves galore.
Prayed, praying, & praying some more.
Planning: birthdays, holidays, ISA events...
Driving Pretty to babysitting jobs, tennis, & b-ball.
Watched the SF Giants win the World Series!!!

2010-09-26T14:25:00.000-04:00

Sometimes giving up doesn't mean you're weak, sometimes it means you're strong enough to let go

Tomorrow perhaps?

2010-09-21T15:17:00.000-04:00

I miss blogging!!! I sit here and I desire to type type type...then I think of all the things that need to get done.

Maybe tomorrow...

Above water

2010-09-14T18:53:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was crazy! Today I feel like my head is above water again.

I cant stop thinking how much I miss Twitter! Last time I used it was last summer. I stopped twittering because hardly anyone I know uses it. I may start again, its a easy and fast way to express your thoughts, emotions, etc. without having to sign on to blogger and over vent about stuff you might later regret!

Simplifying

2010-09-08T18:16:00.000-04:00

For those that follow my blog frequently, I'm sure you've noticed my lack of posts. They will be less frequent...this school year has brought lots of changes and I am having a hard time keeping up with everything else. My main reason to keep the blog up is to post updates and pictures for my family and friends miles away to get a peek at my life in the Hoosier state. So, that's all it will be for now...

I recently came across someones blog that really opened my eyes...it irritated me to read all her opinions on politics, religion, life, and so on...I don't want to be that annoying! So I'm keeping it simple :)

I still have You.

2010-09-02T09:31:00.000-04:00

There is always so much to be grateful for. Life can take away our homes, marriages, children, stability, jobs, health, friends, family, etc. But it can't take away Gods love, forgiveness, salvation, and truth!

I dont have a new car, but I have a new life.
I feel like I'm going crazy some days, but I know He's crazy about me.
I'm not perfect, but I'm forgiven.
I'm not healthy, but I have a new body waiting.
I'm broke, but my inheritance is great.
I fail, but God is faithful.

It's not a storm...if you take a closer look, you'll see that its just angels flapping their wings.

Happy Birthday Jo

2010-09-01T11:54:00.000-04:00

Today a dear friend that I call Jo celebrates another birthday. I wanted to dedicate a little time to acknowledge her.

I met Jo 5 years ago. Lord knew I needed a special friend in my life after leaving California. In the short 5 years that we've known each other, Jo and I have been through SO much together. We've cried and laughed. She is a faithful, loving, kind, and giving person. She has stuck by my side regardless of myself. When I think of Jo, the thing that stands out the most is, how she has encouraged my walk with God. She prays for me faithfully.

Today Jo turns 31. Today is the day we celebrate her life, her existence. The beauty that God created with His hands, and placed on earth to bring joy to many lives, including mine.

Losing control

2010-08-30T21:48:00.000-04:00

I feel like I've lost my grip on situations that I once had complete control over. There, I said it! I'm in a bit of a chaotic state of mind. I feel like I'm going 100 mph, and about to come to a curve ahead...

Family

2010-08-25T07:43:00.000-04:00

Overdue family photos.

Mom with all her grand-babies

Pile of Hugs

Jobi

Monkey Boy

Cheekys

Pretty

Two of my favorite boys

<3 I'm not photogenic, but he makes this picture look good :)

Peek-a-boo

I am...

2010-08-23T15:55:00.000-04:00

I am not tired. I am not frustrated. I am not emotional. I am not irritable. I am not overwhelmed. I am not in over my head. I am not sluggish.

I am positive. I am capable. I am grateful. I am sane. I am healthy. I am content. I am energetic.

Science

2010-08-16T20:52:00.000-04:00

Today was a BEAUTIFUL day in the Ohio Valley. Did anyone else think it felt like Fall? It felt like fall all the way around for us.

We started school today. We had a bumpy start, but managed to finish all our lessons. I'm most excited about science this year. Its always been Pretty's least favorite subject, and mine too. I couldn't find a curriculum that caught our attention, so, I decided to make my own science lessons. My lesson for this week is: Comparing the Continents. We will talk about, population, landforms, customs, religion, climates, similarities, animals, etc. within each of the seven continents.

If anyone has any ideas they want to share with me, PLEASE comment! Would it be smart to follow-up with a lesson on ecosystems? Then maybe Global Warming?...

Game

2010-08-16T17:31:00.000-04:00

37-17 San Francisco! Was the final score on Sunday. We STOMPED the wanna-be thoroughbreds!

It was our first time at Lucas Oil Stadium. It was a good experience over all. Our only complaints are: the music is WAY to loud, and the cheerleaders are trashy! I've never been to a stadium where the music is that loud. It could have been because the stadium roof was closed. The stadium is top notch! The nicest I've ever seen. I wonder how much tax dollars that cost? The Colts fan were classier than some of the other NFL fans we've confronted at previous football games. It was still VERY intense, and we did get some comments from the fans. Nothing threatening. One dude in a hummer drove up and a guy rolls down his window and says "who are the 49ers?" To which I replied, with a big smile "we're the guys with the five World Championship rings!"

It felt good to feel a little bit of home.

I made Pretty's t-shirt. I says I <3 49ERS. This was her and Caleb's first game. My little loud mouth screamed the whole game until she couldn't scream no more.

49ers

2010-08-14T14:50:00.000-04:00

Headed to Indianapolis this weekend. We are celebrating our last day of summer vacation at Lucas Oil stadium, for the 49ers VS Colts game. Haven't been to a niner game since my 24th birthday! It's just a pre-season game, but it will be nice to see my boys in their white and gold jerseys! This is Pretty's first football game, she is ecstatic! I'll post pictures next week. Come back and check them out.

GO NINERS!!!

Framily

2010-08-12T20:51:00.000-04:00

-noun

Friends or blood relatives to whom we would actually choose to be related, because the relationship is mutually respectful, close, supporting and affectionate. The favorite people in our lives we would include in our family, whether they are blood-related or not, typically because we love them.

Had a perfect day with my framily; Jo, Buddy, Cheese, and Shahomey. I heart you guys!

First, we stuffed our faces with some DELISH pizza from Wicks. Best pizza in Louisville, hands down! Then headed to the Science Center. I didn't have the Nikon, but I got some shots on the iphone (not very clear, but still provides a glimpse)

Someone was hungry!

OMG! That's a BIG burger!

Cheese has a friend...he looks like a guido!

Yes..., the nudee in the picture is with us. Show off!

Good times.

Blinking

2010-08-11T16:02:00.001-04:00

I had a beautiful dream last night. One part of my dream confuses me, but I think I understand what it meant.I see God doing great things in my life right now, giving me strength to get through situations that I almost gave up on. One day I want to share this testimony with others, but for now, its not something I am willing to share.

Anywho, school starts Monday. I am excited, Pretty is excited too. Not sure how long the "excitement" will last. I'm trying not to look at the long road ahead...this year we are trying something a bit different. I'm excited to see the results. I'm still in shock over having a middle school student!

Hugs and I sat in bed the other night and talked about all the beautiful memories of Pretty growing up. How time has changed her, and how there was some insight on the type of kid she would grow up to be. We totally didn't see it, until now.We blinked and she grew up. So, Hugs says "no more blinking"! We made a deal with Pretty, I should say, we tried to make a deal with Pretty. NO MORE GROWING UP. She is staying 11.

She was offered a real summer job, by a close friend of ours. He said she is mature enough to handle it. I said "UHM..., NO! Give me one more year, I can even fathom my baby-girl having a real job! I don't even have another child to hang on to. I cant imagine my days alone without her, waiting until she is off work. Some friends have said to me that they envy my "free time"...if anyone knew how I feel when she isn't with me...I wouldn't share her with anyone if I didn't have too! I'm not the kind of mother that needs breaks, or alone time. My breaks are sitting with Pretty and talking about everything under the sun. Being alone without my Pretty is hard. So....NO MORE BLINKING! If it was only that easy...(sigh)

Check it out!

2010-08-03T19:00:00.001-04:00

It's been in the works for a few months now, and its fnally here!

A blog dedicated to my cooking adventures. WWW.OHSOVERYYUMEE.BLOGSPOT.COM

It's going to be YUMMY!

Surprise

2010-07-20T21:13:00.003-04:00

I mentioned previously, that today was full of surprises. One of those surprises came in a small box, left by a secret admirer.

Last Friday, My sister and I took Mirium (newest addition to our family-my cousins wife) to a consignment shop in the Highlands area of Louisville. I had already spent too much on clothes, when I saw it. Behind the glass counter was a charming and beautiful vintage ring. I awed and ooed over its beauty, and then decided I'd already spend more than my budget had allowed, handed it back to the clerk and sadly walked away.

When Hugs came home that evening, I told him about my day with the girls, and about the dazzling ring. He was a bit upset that I didn't buy it. He isn't fond of me buying used clothes and accessories. He waits for the day, when I'll come home and inform him, that I've spent way too much on a dress from Macys. What he doesn't understand is, I LOVE shopping consignment because I find unique things. It's such a rush finding a brand new J.Crew t-shirt or a Vera Wang dress for $12.

...getting back on subject.

The next day I ended up back at the same store, as a favor to my sister, to pick up a shirt she wanted. Before checking out, I went over and sneaked a peek at the beauty that had awed me the day before. Attached to it was a tag, indicating that the ring would be marked down 50% on July 31st. I made plans to return, and crossed my fingers that it would still be there when I came back.

I shared my plan with Hugs, and it seemed like he wasn't really listening.

Today as I got into my truck, I noticed a small box on the trucks console. Wondering what it was, I picked it up and opened it. It was the vintage beauty! I was speechless! I was taken back by my husbands spontaneity, more than, the fact that this dazzling beauty was now mine!

If you know Hugs, you know he doesn't have a romantic bone in his body. But one thing is for sure, he's crazy for his wifee (and he was listening). I'm ok with our romance less marriage. I'm not big on flowers and chocolate anyway. He has his moments, they may be few and far between, but they mean more to me that way. I think he did good. He definitely scored some points ;)

Waiting

2010-07-20T17:55:00.001-04:00

Today has been a day of surprises. I believe with all my heart that EVERYTHING in my life works out for the good, and although sometimes things may seem like small insignificant happenings, they are defiantly not coincidences.

Today I was faced with a test of faith. I was hit HARD! I felt satan trying to hand me doubt, fear, heartache, and anxiety... to say the least.

There is this very special someone in my life, whom my heart loves dearly. This person has been in and out of my life, but not by my choosing. I'd settled for this coming and going for a long time. I'd attempted to bury my emotions in a deep hole, and whenever I felt them creeping back up to the surface, I'd simply throw dirt on them and try to forget this reality existed.

I prayed for years for this special someone. Things got worse. In fact there was a day when things got REAL bad! I walked away from the situation defeated. I convinced myself to give up on this someone. I even stopped praying about this situation. But there was a little girl whos heart ached daily for this special someone, and although I had given up, she hadn't! Seeing her pain, and hearing her beg the Lord for mercy, I joined her in pleading prayers to the Lord. She wrote a letter to the Lord, and everyday she would check the mailbox for His reply. Months, maybe even a year went by.

I asked the Lord to give me something to hold on to while I waited for His answer. He gave me a dream. Lacking faith I asked for a second dream, and He gave it to me. Doubtful still, I asked for a third dream to give me confirmation that it was indeed Him giving me these dreams. He gave me the third dream. My faith soared, and from that day, no matter what my eyes saw, I had a promise!

Meanwhile, the faithful praying little girl continued praying, and waiting for her personal reply. Then one day her answer came. Hand written in blue ink, she received the answer to the greatest desire of her heart. We both read in aw. I turned to her and said "we don't have to ask Him anymore, now we have to thank Him". The tears and pain, were replaced with peace and assurance. That was over a year ago...

Today satan brought it up again, hitting me right smack in the face! HARD! He tried to creep into my mind, because my heart is occupied. I whispered to the Lord, that I didn't doubt His faithfulness. I kept walking, and satan followed. I started to feel fear, and anxiety...with fear comes the desperation to lash out and defend myself in my own way. I grabbed a hold of faith, and told the Lord "no matter what my eyes may see, no matter what my ears may here, You gave me a promise, and You don't fail".

I'm a little bruised, but defiantly not defeated.

Its a blessed feeling, when Daddy picks you right up into His strong arms, and you know He has all of you!

Abraham waited 75 years for Isaac. I may not have to wait that long for my promise, or I may have to wait longer...either way my eyes will someday witness Gods faithfulness, as this special someone starts to walk, then run without looking back.

Plans

2010-07-06T21:31:00.002-04:00

I realized today that school starts in a month. I feel like we just started summer. I've worked hard the last two weeks, too hard! But we've made time for fun too. I made it my goal, to do as much as I could possibly handle with my tween this summer. We've been to the amusement park, zoo, went fishing, swimming, made smores...and even sat down last week, and made a list of all the fun things we want to do this summer.

(there is a full page on the back too)

Prettys ideas are: backyard campout
                            plant jalapenos
                            have a water balloon fight
                            take Charlie swimming (Charlie is our choco lab)
                            trampoline jumping contest
                            go on a road trip
                            have a bbq w/girlfriends
                            go bike riding

My ideas are:        firefly catching contest
                             go to the zoo (check)
                             have a picnic, collect rocks & paint them
                             play tennis
                             find cool backdrops for Nikon
                             go fishng (check)
                             outdoor movie night w/concession stand

Hugs hasn't written down his ideas, all he said was "I like these ideas". LOL!

Of course there will be much more. The 4H County Fair in a few weeks (Pretty wants to make it a tradition to go with her BFF every yr.), the Kentucky State Fair next month, and maybe, MAYBE Kings Island :)

I also have plans the last week of July. It will be the highlight of our summer!!! Its a secret I'm keeping to myself, but am dying to tell : / (lips are sealed)

(Holiday World)

Perspective

2010-07-02T17:53:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I get so worked up about such petty things...I have been bummed since yesterday. Not because of a lousy ticket or a good day turned "bad". In truth, I don't really have the energy to explain my emotions right now.

I know there are bigger problems in the world! But here I am sulking in self pity. Shameful. I'm more upset at the fact that I'm upset.

To put things into perspective, help came through an email today from a person who I recently met. I met her at the Immanuel Scholars Academy graduation ceremony, I only spoke with her for 5 minutes and we became friends. Now I feel as though I've known her all my life. In her email, she shared some personal struggles with me, and it reminded me of a similar struggle Pretty went through 3 years ago. Remembering the painful moments of that time, made me ashamed that I chose to pout over a "not such a big deal" situation.

I went back to an old post on YF, that Pretty and I had sent in, sharing a little of our lives and hearts. I remembered how God had worked in such a beautiful way, and gave Pretty the desire of her heart!

Will we ever have a good enough reason to frown? We ought to be the happiest people alive! Hes got all of us!!! And if we never have anything else to be happy about besides that, that is the only reason we should ever need to be happy!!!

> : (

2010-07-02T10:31:00.001-04:00

Before my day gets too crazy, I wanted to post.

Yesterday Hugs took a much needed day off, to take his girls fishing at Patoka Lake. Being that it was a last minute plan, Hugs was not able to ask for a vacation day, and had to take the day off without pay. Which we didn't mind, because we were going to spend some much needed time with each other. The weather was beautiful!!! It felt like Spring. We were having such a GREAT time. We had caught 29 Blue Gil, and Hugo was reeling in #30, when he said "this one feels a little heavier". He was right! It was a Large Mouth Bass. We were celebrating the Catch of the Day, when DNR comes boating over to us. We provided all he asked for, licenses, registrations, etc. and he kept pushing to find something. He would look and look and ask and ask, and finally, he got his break! Apparently life jackets are a must on a boat. He stressed that life jackets are so important! I wondered, if they are so important, why didn't you ask us about them before you interrogated us about everything else??? For the first time in our lives, we felt singled out! Its a powerless, vulnerable feeling. We were one life jacket short...

We were no longer in the mood to fish after being ticketed, so we decided to leave. We discovered that we had hit a tree stump under the water, and broke our trolling motor!

After the ticket, gas, and trolling motor repairs, we felt like our catch of the day had cost us almost $300 (not including the fact that Hugs didn't get paid for taking the day off).

Long story short...Hugs quit fishing! He said he's done. He posted his boat on Craigslist last night...

Here's the snap of the glorious moment we celebrated, right before DNR bummed our joy!

Meet Evan

2010-06-29T15:22:00.000-04:00

This precious gift from God, was wrapped in skin and lots of hair. He was delivered to mom & dad on June, 24th at 6:15am.

Meet, Evan Cristiano Garcia.

Rollercoaster

2010-06-23T15:24:00.001-04:00

Life has been a bit of a roller coaster lately. Of course if you're a roller coaster lover, then that isn't too bad right? The good thing about roller coasters is, once you get past the scary climb, and drop, your initial scream, turns into a big fat cheesy smile!

Saturday

2010-06-19T07:51:00.000-04:00

I've been up for an hour watching the thunder storm, its so beautiful! We had plans to attend the Ohio River Clean Up today, but the weather has forced us to cancel our plans. However, I am very happy Hugs is home all day! I can hug him, kiss him, have breakfast together, we can sit and talk, and OHHH, I'm so excited for today :) Yay for Saturday.

Have a lovely weekend.

BIG

2010-06-17T20:25:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is a BIG day for me. My nerves are starting to irritate me. If I am voted in, I have BIG shoes to fill!

Observing

2010-06-09T18:24:00.002-04:00

I don't like McDonalds, but here I am having breakfast with Pretty. I'm observing the people around me and my mind ventures into what I imagine their lives are like. Since I was young, I would watch people and would analyze them (or stereotype, if you prefer that word). As I take small reluctant bites of my sausage mcmuffin, I watch an old man, lost in thought, as he licks his vanilla ice cream cone. I see an obnoxious guy, desperately trying to impress a very average girl, makes me wonder just how lonely he must be. I notice a man, whos face is very red. I assume he is an alcoholic, he has a rather worn look on his face. As my imagination drags me into their lives, my heart feels sorry for them. I wonder if they know God, and what burdens them so drastically, that causes the pain to show on their faces? Then I spot him, the face I look forward to seeing every time I come here. He sits at the same table everyday. In very neat piles, are his books, and his tracks, along with a picture of his lovely wife who is now with the Lord. He sits there too, observing the passing world. Unlike me, he reaches out to those whom his soul is lead to. I come over and wish him a good day, and he shares bits and pieces of himself with me. He misses his lovely dearly, and not a day goes by that he doesn't think of her. He was born in Canada, and hasn't become a US citizen yet. He taught his children that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and never changes His ways. I share a little bit of me with him too, he listens, and smiles. Pretty asks "mom, does he really sit there all day?" I tell her "yes, he sits there and waits for God to lead him to a soul who needs truth, and salvation." Although he lost his wife, just a short time ago, his blue eyes display joy, because he has what most will never have.So the world passes by, too distracted by life, to pay attention to the little old man with eternal life stacked neatly on the table.

Litte bit of my mind

2010-06-07T21:07:00.001-04:00

I haven't been blogging a whole lot these days. I found that I was being more negative than I was positive, I didn't like it, so I didn't blog. Its been difficult to express how I feel, without coming across as a downer. I'm really not a downer, in fact I like to think of myself as a pretty optimistic gal : )

This blog is no longer my own, it probably never was. I had hopes for what I wanted this space to be, but I constantly find myself editing, or deleting what I write because I am always afraid to offend someone with my feelings, or thoughts.

On the flip-side, I got some really GOOD news today! I'm bursting with excitement, but I was sworn to secrecy, my lips are sealed. Lets just say, I have plans for a whole week in July!

The weather has been beautiful the last two days. I wish it was Saturday, so we could take the boat out for some fishing. I hope we get good weather on Friday for our trip to Holiday World. I haven't rode a roller coaster in a LONGGG time (excluding life). Looking forward to the awesome peeps I will be hanging with ; ) my second family.

Food for thought: If happiness is a state of mind, then I shall never be happy. But if happiness is a matter of the heart, then I have found true happiness.

Good-night.

Friends, Food & Farts

2010-05-31T22:52:00.000-04:00

Had a BLAST tonight at Mic & Jo's!!! It was a NICE ending to my rough day. Michael and Jamie joined us for dessert, it was nice to sit with a couple of GREAT ladies and just talk. Things got a little personal, thus the fart in my blog title, LOL! Hope we can do it again real soon!

just venting

2010-05-31T13:22:00.000-04:00

I'm just venting, do not take any of my rambling serious! I just needed an outlet to express my busy mind.
It was supposed to be a long weekend. Well its been the total opposite. Its Monday afternoon and we haven't really had any family time. This is a BIG deal to me! I take family time very serious. Weekends are the only time we have together and we usually don't like to make plans, so we can just veg, and talk, and do nothing together. I'm so frustrated right now, I'm not even sure who I am upset with. Hugs had to work yesterday, so I never left the house. I HATE not going to church, but I hate going alone even more. Sat. we spend almost 3 hrs. at AT&T, and then rushed over to a friends house for supper, which I wasn't even in the mood to do! Hugs had made plans, and filled me in at the last minute. Well, today is Monday, and Hugs has been gone all morning. He left around 4am. He went fishing. I hope I don't get misunderstood about what I am going to say...I'm glad he went, he works so hard and totally deserves a break, and besides him and Mic haven't spend time together since the AZ trip, so I feel selfish for wanting him home right now. My frustration roots from my over scheduled schedule. Tomorrow will be the beginning of a long week! I have been considering dropping track to one day a week...I desperately await the end of June, AND ITS NOT EVEN JUNE YET! June will be a hectic, stressful, and nerve racking month for me. I have a feeling Hugs will be in early to work tomorrow, and since they had a holiday, he will probably be very backed up and work late everyday...ok, I'm gonna stop my venting now. I just got recruited to babysit, so I have to go.

My treat.

2010-05-27T17:10:00.001-04:00

I have to share a cute and funny little story with you.

Yesterday after track, Hugs wanted to take Pretty out for dinner to celebrate her first win in track, and let her pick a place to eat. Well...of course she picked Moes. GAG! I DON'T like Moes. Its my least favorite place. Anyway, she loves it and so does Hugs. They were so happy chewing down on their burritos, and I was miserable with my cup of rice and stale chips. I didn't make a big deal out of it, I made the best of it for Prettys sake. When we left, Hugs drove to Homemade Pie & Ice Cream. He said " I know you hate Moes, so I wanted to make it up to you with some dessert". It was so sweet (if you know the hubster well, you know that he is not a cheesy, spontaneous, or romantic guy) so this was a big surprise! As we drive up, they locked the front door. He was bummed that his idea didn't go as planned. Then another car drove up, and they come up to the door and realized that its closed too. For whatever reason, Hugs gets out of the car and dares the couple to beg the employees to open the door and let us all in for dessert! So they did! After about 5 minutes of begging the employee agrees to let us in but only if we pay cash. So I jump out of the truck, knowing exactly what I will get, coconut ice cream! Unfortunately for the other couple, they didn't have cash, and they started to walk away pretty bummed, because they had just begged their hearts out, and now they couldn't even get some ice cream. As they walk away, Hugs just looks at them with such pity, and yells out "hey, I'll treat you for getting them to open the door", their eyes lit up, and taken back by his offer, they happily accepted. They were so grateful for free ice cream, and I was so grateful for their begging, and my coconut ice cream!

The End

2nd

2010-05-27T09:24:00.001-04:00

Pretty had her first meet yesterday evening. She won 2nd in the 200 meter race. Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures. As I rushed out the door I forgot the camera. Totally lame, I know, especially because this was her first race.

Need more sleep...

2010-05-25T07:24:00.000-04:00

Another early morning for me. Hugs got called in early again. He was supposed to go in late today, since he had to work a double shift yesterday (please keep him in your prayers, his allergies have got really bad).

I got recruited for babysitting most of the day today, and honestly...I'm tired. I went to bed very late last night, waiting for Hugs to come home, so we could at least chat and have dessert before bed. Had the dessert but not the chat. LoL. Thus is life.

I'm stressin today...I'm homeschooling two kids, and chasing after a toddler...I just want to absolutely do NOTHING at some point this week, and enjoy a competently quiet house. I guess all you moms are craving the same things right???...

Text

2010-05-24T21:53:00.004-04:00

I received a very sweet text, from a special someone today, it read; I know u know this...but I thought I would remind you...I love u more than I can express...if I love you this much, I cant imagine how much He must love you.

It made my day because 5 minutes before I got the text, I was lost in thought about Gods way of loving me.

I was imaging myself as a rebellious child, stuck in her ways, stubborn, and hard to love. Then I thought of my love towards my daughter, and I questioned if there could be anything she could ever do that I couldn't forgive, or cause me to love her any less. There wasn't! I know Gods love is greater than a million mothers love put together! Like a mother, whos love, a rebellious childs actions can not change, I imagined Him looking upon me and knowing all I will be one day regardless of myself.

My thoughts were interrupted by the text, and upon reading it, I could hear Him saying to me; I love you MORE than you can imagine! I'm crazy about you! I wish you knew just how much! An overwhelming feeling of joy came over me, and I grinned from ear to ear, looking toward heaven, I said "Your amazing!"

To the beautiful amazing person who delivered the special message to me today, I love you BUMches ; )
.

NO COMMENTS PLEASE.

2010-05-24T09:34:00.000-04:00

Life has thrown some weird at my face the last two days. Yesterday started ok, then got real bad, then ok, and back to bad. I had started to blog yesterday after a certain incident, and got interrupted, and was never able to finish. I am glad I didn't because I would have vented a bunch of negativity. I'm really confused about a lot of things, and I hate unanswered questions. They make me doubt things that I thought I was always sure about. The more I pray the worse I feel, and I know why. I'm not complaining or wishing life was easy, in fact, I'm smiling as I type because I haven't felt this close to God in a while. I am learning patience. I refuse to say the word depressed. This emotion that attacks me, and is trying to make itself a part of my life, can wear me out. How is it that you have so many around you that love you, and you know they do, yet feel so alone? I know the answer to my question. Its a certain someone, whos affection you want so bad. Since its not one you have, you can feel rejected, causing a lonely feeling. I'm really ok! I promise. I am not seeking pity, and I know I have faithful loved ones who keep me in their prayers daily.

I'm rambling randomly.

Blew our budget last week. Our water heater went out and we had to spend $700 to fix it. I'm not complaining, I'm VERY happy with our new water heater. PLUS, I'm all for home improvments.

People let you down, but your true friends hold you up.

...I'm lonely, but we're all lonely together : )

Anger is strong, but love is stronger.

I'm completely lost in the right direction.

I'll have a new nephew to hold in a few weeks. Summer break is aproaching, so I'll be able to help Sis with the boys.

I was nominated for President of ISA, some are not supportive, but the supportive group out weights the non-supportives. I should mention that I got my answer about the direction I should take. In addition, I have two letters to support me, as if I needed everyones support, I only need His!

I need to go...I have a student counsel meeting here at 3, the singing group at 4, and a whole bunch of things I need to get done before all the kiddos arrive.

Another early morning

2010-05-20T06:30:00.001-04:00

Its 5:45am...I'm up because the smell of Columbian coffee roasting in the kitchen seduces me out of bed, and gets my feet moving towards its direction. Mmm, Ahhh. Bliss.

I'm kind of liking being up this early. So much more gets done. The hardest part is ridding myself of the burning sensation in the eyes. Although my body is wide awake and willing to start the day, my eyes plead more sleep. Been up way to early twice in a week. This may be the start to something good. More time in the day. How many times have I said, "oh, if I only had a few more hours in a day," now I do! Maybe today is the day I will finally tackle the playroom project.

Because Pretty hardly plays with her toys anymore, she doesn't need the playroom area. I plan on repainting the chalk wall in the downstairs family room area, and then putting up a big Ikea divider with some totes for the stuff that may get used occasionally. The playroom will then become....(drum roll) MY CRAFT ROOM! Well... Prettys and my, craft room. Our special spot for her sewing machine, and my scrapbooking stuff. It will be a bittersweet goodbye, parting with the playroom.

The first time I saw this house, I knew I would turn that room into a special place for Prettys and the kids. The place that the kids would walk into and would be WOWed with shelves of board games, bins full of toys, and a big wall to write on without getting in trouble. But such is life. Kids must grown up...I will post pictures as we transform the room.

Well, my coffee mug needs a re-fill of warm Columbian bliss, so I'm off. Have a lovely day kiddos, and stay out of trouble.

Another Boy

2010-05-19T11:39:00.000-04:00

Sis finally had an ultrasound yesterday, which is totally funny because she is due in a few weeks! She was right...it's another boy! The baby is already 7 lbs., which could result in a earlier due date than expected, or a really big baby.

Pretty is always happy to receive new members into the family, but I could see a little bit of disappointment in her eyes. She wanted a girl. She is still the only granddaughter. She is totally out numbered by the boys. She wants so bad to have a real doll to dress up and care for. Sometimes I've wondered if it would make her more feminine. She's always been around the rowdy boys, and has just blended in.

Monday

2010-05-17T10:21:00.001-04:00

Hugs went in early today. He was making so much noise in the kitchen, and woke me. I tried to go back to bed, and couldnt, so I got up. I've been up since 6:30am, debated making a fresh pot of coffee, and conformed for a bowl of vanilla almond cereal instead. Spent all morning cleaning. I even organized my office closet. It's only 10, and all I got left to do is clean the bathroom. Not bad at all for a Monday morning.

Pretty is still asleep. I noticed that the older she gets the more she is sleeping. I debated waking her up, but after realizing that I don't usually have a quiet house, and that I will have a dozen kids over later today, I opted to let her sleep.

Today I am teaching my first singing class with some of the 5th & 8th grade homeschoolers. We plan on singing at the Graduation & Awards Ceremony next month. It's a great group of kids, I cant wait to see the outcome of their hard work.

Well, sleeping beauty just woke up...didn't even say good morning! Instead she headed downstairs to ride her Rip Stik. Why does my finished basement feel like a skate park?

Happy Monday Y'all.

Moms Day at Spring Mill

2010-05-12T18:02:00.000-04:00

Where are my F.A.I.T.H gloves?

2010-05-10T13:47:00.000-04:00

I feel like Rocky Balboa in the 15th round with Apollo Creed! But somehow I started to believe that I wouldn't be the one lifting my arms in victory. The worst part is that I know I'm just being lied too. I KNOW the truth! With every blow, I feel weaker and weaker...and then I hear a sweet voice say "remember the woman at the well? Her life was so messed up, chaotic, ugly, and dark, but despite all that, she came face to face with Hope. It was REVELATION that saved her. She recognized her God Prophet." Then I feel a sudden rush of strength, my legs are wobbling but I'm starting to stand, my shoulders feel heavy with burden, but I hear YOU in my corner saying "PRESS ON, for I didn't give you the spirit of fear..."

Do you know your Mexican history?

2010-05-06T10:35:00.001-04:00

I had to post about a rather awkward yet funny, maybe a little embarrassing moment I had yesterday with Pretty's track coach. He comes up to me during warm ups and says "Happy Mexican Independence Day". I chuckled and hesitated to correct his mis-information. Then I thought, I would hate to be the person on the other side of the equation, and be laughed at for not knowing the difference between D-day and 4th of July. So I gently said " Mexican Independence Day is September 16th. Cinco De Mayo (May 5th) was our victory at the Battle of Puebla against the French. Mexicans don't really celebrate it. I think I must have offended him because he said "do you know your Mexican history? I never knew the French went to Mexico!" So I doubted my knowledge of our history, and simply said "I'm pretty sure". As soon as I got home, I had to Google it.

The Battle of Puebla was fought in Mexico against the French in 1862. It was an unlikely victory that took place in Puebla, Mexico. It is a holiday that is celebrated mostly in the U.S. but not really sure why. Maybe just to give the Mexicans a holiday. HaHa

I wonder if coach Googled it too? If you didn't know, now you know!

Im still here, well not really

2010-05-04T11:31:00.001-04:00

Ive been wanting to post for days. I am super busy this week. I have something planned for everyday this week, even the weekend! End of the school yr is approaching and we are still playing catch up. I've been thinking about ending school at the end of June, and whatever is left over can be started in Fall. The only thing that causes me to hesitate is the thought that I will be starting a new school yr with 3 months worth of work to catch up on off the bat. I don't want to start that way...so I have few options. This is the part where I have to take a deep breath and let go of all the negativity I have inside. Its easy to blame others...but ultimately its our fault we let Pretty's previous school get away with so much before we final stepped up and said THIS IS ENOUGH! I feel robbed of our money, I feel betrayed, it hurt her emotionally as well. Its been so hard finding forgiveness...but I had to learn my lesson the hard way for being stubborn and not allowing God to guide me in the direction He wanted me to take in the first place. So here I am. I don't know what to do. We have about 3 more months of school left, and she needs a summer break , and so do I! Most of her friends will be out of school next week, this causes her attitude and motivation to go down the drain. She starts to slack off, and sit at her desk with her face buried in her arms, and sit and stare into space. Her complaining wears me out! "Mom, everyone is out of school next week, and I have to be sitting here", then I feel bad because its not her fault she is in this situation, but do I really have another choice?

Changing subject, Pretty starts track today. I'm really hoping she doesn't give up on this too. Soccer didn't work out, she didn't make the basketball team, and volleyball doesn't start until Sept. SO, I hope she hangs in there with this. Its hard not pushing to hard, I used to be in the track team and I started at her same age. I competed in my first regional track competition in 6th grade, and won 2nd place. So the passion is there for me, and I cross my fingers and hope its there for her too. I just want her to stick to something, and not give up so fast. Track is tough, so we'll see.

I cause my own grief don't I? (sigh) How do you change your passion? After all, being passionate about something means your whole heartily dedicated, and how does one change their heart?

Mostly Cloudy

2010-04-26T17:59:00.000-04:00

Its been mostly cloudy around here, and I'm not only referring to the weather outside. Fighting so many different things right now...I could say so much but I refuse to give in to any negativity. My prayer journal seems to be filling up quickly. This morning I was reading back on some requests and I was able to write ANSWERED beside a few.

I've seen many storms, and although they put a damper on my mood, I know the sun is just beyond the clouds.

Love your Mother

2010-04-22T12:18:00.001-04:00

Happy Earth Day earthlings. In honor of the once breathtaking beauty we call Earth that was created by Mighty hands with so much love and care, it is my desire to thank God through my actions, by doing all I can to conserve, heal, and love this immense masterpiece.

I'm not hardcore, in fact I'm pretty ashamed of driving an SUV :( But I do what I can because I truly feel in my heart that its my way of taking care of what God made for us.

Small changes make a BIG difference! Here are 10 small ways you can make a BIG difference:

1. Turn the lights off. Make it a habit to only turn the lights on after a certain time (conserves energy)
2. Unplug anything that is not being used. Lamps, coffee maker, toaster, cell. phone chargers etc (conserves energy)
3. Use scrap paper. I rarely use a blank sheet of white paper. Lists, spelling tests, Prettys drawings etc. all are done on scrap paper (save a tree)
4. Re-use your water bottles. For fun have your kids decorate their bottle with puffy pen, and teach a mini lesson on re-using and recycling (helps landfill waste)
5. Bring your own cup to the coffee shop. Most avid coffee drinkers have a thermos cup, USE IT (helps landfill waste)
6. Use green bags. Keep them in your car at all times. Most stores offer a small discount for green bag users, some Gap stores offer up to 10% off. If your not crazy about green bags, bring back your used plastic bags to your local grocery store, most of them have recycling boxes (helps landfill waste)
7. Carpool whenever possible. If you have a big family and carpooling is not an option, instead take one day to run errands, map it out to keep driving to a minimum (lower emissions, cleaner air)
8. Minimize aerosol usage. Use pump hairspray instead of can hairspray (protect the ozone, cleaner air)
9. Plant a small tree. Great science project for the kids too! Don't have room for a tree? Houseplants do a great job too! (betters air quality)
10. Last but not least...RECYCLE! I can't stress enough how important this is to our planet! Most homes I've visited don't recycle. Recycling is probably the easiest earth friendly thing you can do, at no cost to you that makes a HUGE difference to our planet. You can even get paid for recycling! Let the kids save the soda cans, and cash them in, use the money for their Jesus Jars or for a trip to the dollar store.

ONE MORE THING: DON'T BE A LITTER BUG. Carry a small trash bag in your car, and whenever possible pick up trash in your neighborhood.

I'm listing the following info. about the lifespan of litter, and how long popular items take to biodegrade. Share it with your kids today in honor of Mother Nature. Pick at least one thing to do from the list above, and take pride in caring for Gods wonderful creation!

Aluminum Can 200-500 years
Batteries – 100 years
Cardboard Box- 4 weeks
Cigarette Butt up to 10 years
Cotton Rag- 1-5 months
Disposable Diapers- 500-600 years years
Glass Bottle 1Million years
Leather- up to 50 years
Lumber- 10-15 years
Mono-filament Fishing Line- 800 years
Milk Cartons (plastic coated) 5 years
Nylon Fabric- 30-40 years
Orange Peel- 2-5 weeks
Paper-2-5 months
Plastic Film Container- 20-30 years
Painted Wooden Stake- 13 years
Plastic 6 pack cover 450 years
Plastic Bag- up to 500 years
Plastic Coated Paper- 5 years
Plastic Soda Bottles- Forever
Rope-3-14 months
Rubber Boot sole 50-80 years
Sanitary Pads= 500-800 years
Styrofoam- More than 5,000 years
Tin Cans-50-100 years
Tin Foil- It does not biodegrade
Wool Clothing- 1-5 years

Land fill waste report from 2003

970 thousand tons of paper cups and plates were discarded in 2003 (EPA).
64 billion paper cups and plates being thrown away every year in USA.
730 thousand tons of styrofoam and plastic plates and cups (710 thousand tons were styrofoam)
73 billion mostly styrofoam cups and plates being thrown away every year in USA.
3,810 thousand tons of plastic containers & bottles were thrown away in 2003.
90 billion plastic containers & bottles being land-filled or incinerated every year.

The above numbers do not include trash bags, grocery bags and other plastic materials like trays, utensils, clam shells, caps and other plastic packaging. A total of 8000 thousand tons of these items were discarded in 2003.

(our little tree)
(bad photog of me in my organic tee)

U + Me =We

2010-04-21T18:51:00.001-04:00

We've been in Nashville Indiana, better known as Brown County to all the Hoosiers, celebrating our anniversary. We had a lovely time, relaxing, fishing, hiking, chilling in the jacuzzi, eating too much...We stayed at Abbey Inn. It was PERFECT! I cant wait until we go back. Someday we hope to go back to Carmel Beach and celebrate our anniversary down memory lane. Have dinner at the pizzeria were Hugs proposed, maybe wear our wedding day attire again and take pictures of ourselves with wrinkles and gray hair, but with the same smiles.

I could share so much...but for today I will say that, I am so blessed to have Hugs walking this journey of life with me. So glad God chose us for each other <3 Isn't He a great matchmaker?!?!

Here's to the future baby. On your mark... get set...GO!

4/20

2010-04-20T20:22:00.000-04:00

Today Hugs and I celebrated our 12th anniversary. I am not able to write an extensive post at this time, but please check back I will share my heart with you.

To be continued...

Drugged

2010-04-16T00:02:00.000-04:00

Greatest love story-Good Friday

2010-04-02T18:22:00.000-04:00

The ugliest most beautiful day the world has ever known! As the earth cried while its Creator was nailed to a cross, the clouds darkened in grief, the sun couldnt shine, the earth shook in fear. Yet how beautiful that day is to me! The greatest love story ever told...to be continued

...much to say about Monday

2010-03-29T21:09:00.001-04:00

Not bad for a Monday. Pretty was up early and finished with school by 8:45am. That left me plenty of time to fold three loads of laundry, take a long hot shower, and wash the dishes.

Headed to Lou for the ice skating field trip. Three hours in a ice rink is too long! I shook the whole time I was there. Pretty had a great time, and she made a new friend (Jo's niece from Canada). I had a very deep conversation with a person whom I've always liked but didn't know very well. She shared an AMAZING testimony with me. It impacted me in a way I cant describe...I've had a lump in my throat all evening. It brought back a memory of a "dream" I had, which wasn't a dream, but I dare not call a vision...

I did make it to revival night...came back home after first 30 mins. I rather not go into detail. Before going home I wanted to stop by Big Lots and buy a journal. I'm going to share the reason why. Couple years ago Pretty and I started a prayer box. Every time we had a request for God, we would write it on a piece of paper, or if the request needed very special attention, we would write it on a Jesus check, and place them in the box. We decorated the box with scriptures promising answers from the Lord. From time to time we would go into the box and read our past requests and talk about how God had answered. We out grew the box. We then started a list, which we keep in my bible, we write the name of the person and what they are in need of. Well...it's growing fast and getting bulky. This brought me to the journal idea. I found one at Big Lots for $1.50. It's nothing special but what attracted me to it was that inside it has two pockets. The first thing that came to mind when I saw the pockets was that this would be a great place to tuck my Jesus checks into. One pocket for Waiting on Jesus, and the other for God is Faithful! As soon as I am done blogging, I'm going to start filling it up.

It's 9, and Hugs called and said he won't be home for another 2 hours...(sigh) he's been gone since 9 this morning. I hate late nights because it temps me to entertain myself with food...there's a lonely slice of cheesecake in the fridge, hmmm...what to do?...byeee

Church, Mud & $8 Pie

2010-03-28T22:43:00.003-04:00

Today was a quiet day. After church we had lunch at Zaxbys. I ran into a lovely person there, whom I have great fondness for. I had a short talk with her, but it lifted my spirit. After lunch we headed home, and Hugs decided to finish up the dog kennel he had started yesterday. Despite the wet cold weather, I was needing some hubbers and wifey convo, so I hung out with him outside until he finished. It looks great! Im so glad the temp. fencing is gone, it was such an eye sore. My hott hubby is a great handy man! Its fun watching him work. We were muddy and hungry, so by the time everyone headed in and ate dinner it was 6:15, kind of a bummer because we planned on going to the evening service. But I'm glad I can go again tomorrow : ) I'm really looking forward to this week. It's going to be a little hectic, but in a good way. My only complaint for today is, that while at the grocery store, Hugs threw in a 24 pk of Coke and a $8 pecan pie to the shopping cart. I HATE processed store pies! Especially when they are $8! Then of course he lets Pretty choose some nasty fatty chips, and some sugary kids cereal with a high content of fructose corn syrup. Oh well...I chose to keep the peace and smile, it beats going grocery shopping alone.

Heavy Heart

2010-03-27T10:25:00.000-04:00

So many thoughts running around in my mind since last night...my heart is so burdened! Sometimes I want to smack some reality on someones face. Thats such a terrible thing to say, and totally not christian like (sighs) unfortunatly thats how I feel right now. It takes every ounce of self control to keep my mouth shut. I promised the Lord that I wouldnt open my mouth unless He said to speak.

Expecting

2010-03-25T09:06:00.005-04:00

I'm really excited about revival week. It's going to be a little challenging being there everyday, but I am expecting great things.

I loved this quote from last nights message: No matter what you done,He's still got His eye on you. Those disciples went off without Him,and the darkest hour when that devil got them away from there, awayfrom His Presence, he begin to storm on them. Maybe that's what he'sdoing to you tonight. He might give you cancer; he might give you this;he might give you that. He might give you a broken home; he might giveyou a tore up heart. He might give you worries; he might give youheadaches. I don't know what he will do, but there's one thing I doknow, that God's still got His eye on you.
-W.M.B.

Momcher (mom & teacher)

2010-03-24T11:23:00.001-04:00

I'm excited about going to the ACE convention today. I will be signing up to become a certified ACE instructor. I have some thoughts stirring in my mind, and I'm crossing my fingers that they dont get into my heart because I'll lose this battle. I have a weakness for helping others. Thats all I will say. Well, maybe just say one more thing...I was thinking last night how much I miss having a job. Since Angel was a month old, I worked 10 hrs. a day, so it became normal for me. I didnt stop working completely until about 2 yrs. ago. I know that being a mother is my God given job, its the best job I've had! Now I'm a "teacher" too. I have completely fallen in love with being a momcher (mom & teacher) but if I could "teach" and earn some money....hmmm...ok, I've said too much : o

New look

2010-03-22T12:58:00.001-04:00

I wanted something new and fresh reflecting my mood. I am not sure that I like it. Its been up for less than an hour and I'm already getting bored.

Speaking of bored, if you know me well, you know how I must have change in my surroundings. I put out my spring decor about 3 weeks ago, and I'm already ready to burn it. Just another reason why I'm weird. I am getting rid of the lamps I once fell in love with, and looking for something vintage modern. I also got a new sofa table, not coffee table, SOFA table. I got a SWEET deal at Goodwill!

This brings me to my next topic. I often run into some sweets deals on awesome stuff. So I thought that for fun, I would start posting them for your viewing pleasure, and my sharing pleasure :)