I've moved...

I will no longer be posting from here...I am moving blogs and you see why when you link over. A new journey begins! woo-hoo!

Come see me at Second Chances and save the link to your favs and sidebars!! :-)

Kevin is HOME!

Yesterday was a bit of a blur for me. I was a nervous wreck because I knew I'd have to speak. And, yesterday the chapel was so packed that they had to bring in extra chairs. We were sitting at the front, so when I stood and turned around I kindof lost everything I wanted to say! ha!

It was a great day for Kevin. He was surrounded by childhood friends, family, and family friends. He had quite a group there to see him off into the real world. Four of his buddies he has had since high school came, his parents, my mom, his sister and her crew, and even parents of some high school buddies. The only regret I have of the day was that I didn't think to video him leading the song "He Arose" in the front of the church. Wow - he was really something! When his graduation video is posted to the John 3:16 site, I will share it with you. It really showed the growth and change in him from 6 months ago.

Look - here is the line-up for the day...Kevin's graduation!! hee-hee!

Once we got home, we went out to eat and then to the grocery store because for those that know me, you know the refrigerator was empty. Kevin laughed when he saw it and said I was a guy...I had Dr. Pepper, poptarts, and some french onion dip & chips. That's about it. LOL! But what was really funny was that we were tickled to just be grocery shopping shopping together! How's that for finding some appreciation in the little things...I normally hate grocery shopping! ha!

And, best of all, my wonderful food is back...here is my breakfast this morning...breakfast tacos. His breakfast tacos ROCK! *and, no, I am not at work today...I am sick...cough...cough!

Today is THE DAY!!!

I am up, and I am wired! No snooze button today!! I can't believe I actually get to bring my big bear home today!!! Yee-haw!

Keep us in your prayers as he makes the transition from a boot camp full of support to the ugly real world.

Now, I gotta go finish getting ready and do my happy dance!!!

90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper

From the jacket: On the way home from a conference, Don Piper's car was crushed by a semi that crossed into his lane. Medical personnel said he died instantly. While his body lay lifeless inside the ruins of his car, Piper experienced the glories of heaven, awed by its beauty and music.
Ninety minutes after the wreck, while a minister prayed for him, Piper miraculously returned to life on earth with only the memory of inexpressible heavenly bliss. His faith in God was severely tested as he faced an uncertain and grueling recovery.

What I thought: This was a good book - not great writing by any means. It didn't help that it took me almost a month and a half to read it because I have been too busy to read lately. So, I was into it in at the beginning but not so much by the end. It is an amazing story what all this man lived through to tell. What I got most out of the book is that it reinforced for me that God has a plan for each of us. When we are experiencing trials, God is still with us. He is using those trials for us to share our stories with others and help each other.

Anyone else need a break?

I would just like a day to sleep in please!! ha! Sometimes life gets crazy busy!!
And, I am just trying to get things done (like papers graded and edline updated - all the stuff I won't want to worry with next week). Why? Because my man is coming home!!! heehee! 3 days peoples! 3 days! I mailed my last letter today!! woo0hoo! I also ate tamales out of a can tonight because when Kevin gets home, he thinks all that food is gross. I mean, I heated it up first...unlike when I eat pork and beans straight out of the can. ha! He hates that! So, I'm getting in the last of my "yucky, unhealthy" food. :-)
I am about to catch up on everyone's blog too. Last night, I had dinner with my friend with the twin girls. Adorable!! Although, I have NO clue how she keeps up with them at all. And, I don't think I am cut out for this Mom business unless I can order a 2 or 3 year old. Ha!
Ok...gotta check blogs...Thanks for any and all Audrey prayers. Check out her blog in my sidebar for updates. She has made it through her heart surgery with flying colors! Another woo-hoo!

And, last, a shout-out to my parents - Happy 33rd Anniversary!!! (on Friday) I love you both!! Aren't they cute?

Rant!

*Warning: I am getting some venting done here so I don't explode on someone...so you have been warned. And as an aside, you all crack me up when I vent and then I get all the emails saying "was that about me?" HA!

For the most part, I am a very non-confrontational person. This has its positives and negatives. I let things build and build sometimes and then it only takes that one little thing to just finally push me over the edge. Not liking to cause conflict can often cause me to bite my tongue or "let things go"...until one of my BFF's is within earshot and then they get an earful. ha! I can sugar- coat anything to keep a situation from becoming heated...and again my BFF's usually get to hear the HEATED version when I vent later! You get to hear today!

People really need to keep their opinions to themselves about how they think other's should live their lives UNLESS they are asked for their opinion. Do NOT pretend you know what it is like to be me or judge my decisions on anything until you have walked a day in my shoes!!!! As far as Kevin & I are concerned, no one has ANY idea what all we have been through except us! I am the one who has had to deal with his alcoholism face-to-face. He lived with me, so I know first hand what it was like when he had been on a binge. I know what it was like to watch him not be able to even focus his eyes or hold his head up. I know what it is like to have to shut the bedroom door and leave him passed out in the floor because I can't lift him. I know what it is like to hear him crying out my name in the middle of the night for help. ME! NO ONE ELSE!!!! So, do not judge me or tell me what I should do with my life. I am a big girl and have been fiercely independent since the age of 18, so far I think I've managed just fine. I could go on and on about the affects of alcoholism and how it not only affects the person doing the drinking - but that isn't the point. Let me also say that everyone else gets involved the day after the binge....that day is a cake walk compared to the rest. That day is full of remorse and promises to do better. That day is full of all the things you want to hear. NOW, all that is in the past. The past is the past. Let's just leave it there. My point is...until you have actually walked in my shoes and seen what I've seen and felt what I've felt...DO NOT TELL ME WHAT I SHOULD AND SHOULDN'T DO!!! And certainly, do not judge me for a decision I have made. I am 36 years old and can make any damn decision I want. If it is the wrong one, I, and I alone will deal with the consequences. It won't be the first time I've made a mistake and it certainly won't be the last.
You know Kevin & I have both grown a lot over the past 6 months. But it has not been an easy walk. We have had struggles. Some that only he & I know about. We have overcome. Together. With Love. Do not try to tell either one of us how we should act about anything. If one of us isn't all cheery one day or wants things done a certain way or makes a decision that WE are happy with, then support us or quite frankly shut-up! This is not a time for anyone to be throwing rocks or telling anyone how to live their lives. Worry about your own. I am willing to bet you have problems of your own hiding in your closet. So, as my kids at school would say "MYOB" - mind your own business!

Whew...I don't know about ya'll but I feel a lot better...my keyboard, however, just took a beating! And, yes I went around the world to just say MYOB! :-)

In case you were wondering...

...there are only 6 more days until Kevin comes home. I know you are ALL counting down the days too (if only so I will shut-up about it!) It is going to be a little strange at first...I am jittery nervous like a first date or something. ha! We are so blessed to get to wipe the slate clean and start over fresh. (Not that anyone would want to go through what we did to get here! ha!) He has already asked what I want to eat the first week he is home. I am working on my menu...the weight is about to pack back on! ha! And, the grocery bill is about to go WAAAAY back up!! But it's all good! :-)

Now, I have to go put the finishing touches on my Master's project and be done with it! woohoo!

Don't forget to say a prayer for Audrey's surgery in the morning!

Back soon...

I am really swamped and trying to stay on task with this master's project (not an easy task but I am almost finished). So, in the meantime...head on over to some of my fav blogs and show some love...

Go see Tasha at www.cheeka-beeka.blogspot.com. She has some sick kiddo's right with ear infections and poor Tasha is about to be a crazed mom! :-)

Go see Lindsey at www.craftylou.blogspot.com. She is now 6 months pregnant....time flies!

For gorgeous farm photos if you are an animal lover like me go to www.foodiefarmgirl.blogspot.com. She is a city girl who moved to the country and has some amazing stories and pictures.

Go to www.audreyphelan.blogspot.com and give some prayers and support for a friend's grand-daughter. She is having heart surgery on the 10th of this month and is only 3 years old.

Don't be afraid to leave comments when you visit their blogs! :-)
And, there are lots more good ones in my sidebar...check 'em out! Just don't forget to come back here too!heehee!
In case you are counting, 10 days until Kevin's home!

Random Thoughts

*Only 12 days until Kevin is home!!!!

*There are never enough hours in a day to get everything done.

*Hair balls from cats are just GROSS! eeekkk!

*My goal this week is to finish my Master's project that is due. I may have to ban myself from blogging until it's DONE!

*I don't think I want a pet cow anymore after the diary farm came to school today...cows are BIG! ha!

*Scrapbooking is Friday....YES!

*Is it Spring Break yet?

*How can it snow on Saturday and be 70 degrees 5 days later???

*The Bachelor is a JERK...enough said!

Happy birthday!!

To the very bestest dog EVER - Jax!! You all know how absolutely crazy I am about this dog, and we have had 11 years together today. If dogs could talk, the stories he could tell! ha!

I hope we have many more days together buddy! :-)

2 weeks!!

In two short weeks Kevin will be home! woohoo! I brought home the first carload of stuff today - yippee!! It was so good to see him...with me missing visiting last week because of the scrap retreat, well, it made for a long two weeks no matter how much I needed a girls weekend! The moment I saw him all my stress and worries were gone...he really is my bestest friend and soulmate and I am so ready to have his messy self home! ha!

On another note, only two more Saturday classes for my Master's class - thank goodness! I have one class on the 14th and a big project due that day. urgh! Then, April 4th is the final. I looked at the summer schedule and both classes I need to finish ARE being offered. Unfortunately, one is first session and one is second session, so I'll have to be class all summer, but I am going to try to get in because I am ready to be DONE! Wish me luck that they don't fill up before I get in!! :-)

As Requested...scrap pages!

*Back to the old blog look today...no more wishing for snow. Now I want Spring!

I had a request for pictures of scrap pages completed over the weekend...now who am I to deny a request? Especially about one of my favorite topics! So, here are some of my favorites from the weekend (some are blurry but that's ok...you can't read my journaling...heehee!): Favorite title goes to "RV there yet?" Thanks Sandy for that one! I liked the bling music notes and the color for this one - plus the pics were fun:
Although, it doesn't show, I worked hardest on this one because I wanted it to be good. We were each given the same 3 pieces of paper & had to design a page with them. It was really neat to see how no two pages looked alike, but all were with the same paper. I was proud of this because I made my own tag and used a big bite for the first time to put an eyelet in my tag. How's that for scrappin' terminology 101! ha! (Oh, the tag says To: The kids of John 3:16 ministry From: Santa aka Kevin)
This one is just fun because Christmas card photos are one of my favorite parts of the season. My friend, Carey's kiddo, just makes the whole thing. Look at that cute Santa face!! This one was obviously just plain ole sentimental... I journaled about our journey to John 3:16.These are AWESOME letters that Peggy discovered at Wally World - they come in a booklet that looks like a paper pack, but each page is big colorful letters. Love them!

This one I just loved the paper and the sparkle stickers for Shena's name...plus, I used staples for the first time on a scrap page for the ribbons.
And last, this one I love the simplicity and the quote...at the top it says, "Often attempted, never mastered..." Then the bottom is stamped Christmas Card Photo.And there you have it... Keep the pages simple is my motto!

In less than a month...

Kevin will be home!!! Yee-haw! March 15th!! I only visit two more times and then it's graduation!! After that, I will actually have someone to share the ride to Batesville with - woo-hoo!

Retreat continued...

I am still tired today from the excitement and late nights of scrapbooking over the weekend, so this is going to be short and then I'm crashing! I will catch up on all blog reading tomorrow...or Wednesday when I play hookie from work....shhh! Anyway - above is Peggy at her work station. We all got our own 6 foot table to scrap at - there were about 32 scrappers total I think.
This is our gang late into the night on Friday night...we were actually more tired Friday night than Saturday night...hmmm? Oh, and I have to give a shout-out to Laura & Peggy who made it until 4:30 am Saturday night...woohoo!

There was a scrapbook retreat queen...sadly it wasn't one of us. The queen is pictured below - we all have aspirations to steal her crown next year. The queen is the one who scraps the most pages. (I was pumped with my 34 pages!! yippee)
Our saving grace was Laura who won the PJ parade...whew! We have a winner in the group! Go Laura...aka Funny Girl! The PJ queen! I think it was the boots!

Scrap Retreat Weekend

First of all, we had a BLAST! Second, I am exhausted!! And, today when I got home I crashed for 3 hours and could have easily slept until in the morning!! Here we are in our matching T-shirts we bought just for the weekend, because we LOVE to cheese it up! heehee! Aren't they cute? Next year, we are thinking maybe matching PJ's...because this has to be a yearly thing. It was THAT awesome!! I only have the energy to post one picture tonight...more to come tomorrow! :-) I know you are all going to wait on pins and needles. LOL!
My favorite things about the weekend were just simply getting away with great friends, the awesome CD that Laura made for us to listen to on the way - she titled it scrappers delight - ha, the fun we had with our walkie talkies (we had to take two cars because of all the stuff and each car had a walkie talkie so we could sing together and still talk on the way...we know we are cheesy but we don't care!), and the new tools we learned about on the trip. I may think of more tomorrow when my brain isn't dead...but I do know I have to get a big bite. That is on my next Hobby Lobby trip!!
Stay tuned....more tomorrow! :-)

Our Own Concert

My kiddo's had a project to build their own instrument to wrap up our sound unit. There were some good ones!! I am always amazed!! Anyway, here they are putting on their concert today ~ comical! It's only 52 seconds of torture! ha!

PS....only one day until SCRAPBOOK RETREAT!! yeehaw!

Wordless Wednesday: PJ Day at School

Counting down...

Only 3 days until the scrapbook retreat...yee-haw!! My scrap stuff is packed and ready!!

Handmade Valentine's R the BEST!

*We are just going to hope that when Kevin comes home, he doesn't backtrack through the 'ole blog! heehee! If he does, I'm going to be in BIG trouble!! But, I happen to know through the grapevine that at least 3 of my letters have been shared with the entire camp. So...all is fair in love & war! LOL!

Here is my Valentine on a handmade "card" & I couldn't have asked for a better one!

Dear Lori -
I've thought about this letter all week. How do I explain to you what you are to me? I'm really not sure I can. You have stuck by me through my spiritual (and almost financial) bankruptcy, and you've brought me here where you've saved my life. I came here to salvage my life, but Jesus has restored it and given me a future. A future of hope, prosperity, joy, contentment, and love. I owe it all to Jesus and you.
I want to always put your needs above mine and serve you the rest of my life. I know what our future holds, and it is some good times. We'll have a rough patch from time to time, but that's when we seek and trust God and we can't lose. You are my world. You are my gift from God.
I love you whole heartedly,
Kevin

I just wanted to share this glimpse into our personal journey through alcoholism to show anyone who may need it - there is HOPE! They have to be ready and most of the time, they have to lose everything. Kevin did - if I would've bent just an inch, he wouldn't have gone to John 3:16. He didn't want to go in the beginning. It was too long. My advice to anyone dealing with an addict is don't cave. Stand your ground. You can love them and still be firm in what you know is right. I was able to talk to someone today about John 3:16 and their struggles with an alcoholic son. It confirmed to me that THIS is what Kevin & I have been put here to do with our lives - our purpose to help others overcome and give them HOPE. Without hope, we have nothing!

Almost Monday already?

Time flies!! It can't almost be Monday already! I haven't had a weekend yet!!! Seriously, last week was yuck - way too much going on and my stress was HIGH. I had a full blown migraine by Friday night. But, it is all over now. That week is behind me, AND I got all my work done - masters work - check, all papers graded - check, entered in edline - check, interims printed and complete - check, parent conference forms typed and ready - check! As a result, I refuse to bring ANY work home this week! :-) It all stays at work ~ especially since I have to stay and hold parent conferences all week.

Remember the best way to handle overload? Reward system! heehee! So.....I have my eye on the prize this week...the countdown is ON! I can make it through this week to get to SCRAPBOOK RETREAT WEEKEND! Yee-haw!!

I shouldn't be blogging...

So, I'm just going to post this video and get back to work! This is a John 3:16 video that will show you how good Mr. Kevin is doing. Remember when these guys arrived at John 3:16, they had nothing to smile about and now look at them! Sit back, watch and just relax! (and yes, that is him in the first picture busting out a wall! heehee!)

WANTED

One assistant who can...
*answer a steady stream of emails from parents all day
*document the behavior of all students each day
*answer phone calls
*collect money for a Valentine party
*schedule parent conferences and accommodate all parents (even the ones who DON'T follow the directions on the sign-up form you send out)
*grade papers
*enter all grades into edline
*answer MORE emails regarding grades
*print interim reports
*write conference forms
*print conference forms
*write lesson plans
*return MORE emails
*counsel students
*run errands for supplies needed for lessons

If I can find an assistant to have all this completed by Monday, you are hired, and I MIGHT get my assignments done for my Master's class! Oh, and did I mention it doesn't pay....

My B.I.B.L.E.

Was that a Sunday school song when we were little?

Seriously, this goes to show how much things have changed for both Kevin and me in the past 5 months. I left my Bible at the ministry on Sunday (two hours away). And, it's a big deal to go without it for a week. I got a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach when I realized I had left it. I thought "What am I going to do? It has my notes and my daily bread in it. I can't go without it." Made me realize how much different things are now ... and I'm glad! :-)

On another note, it was my turn to host Bible Study tonight. And, it's over....whew! You know I'm not a cook, and I had to cook. But, I pulled it off (or they were just being polite - ha!). And, Jax behaved himself. He only tooted a couple of times. heehee!

Happy Birthday to ME!

My birthday weekend can be summed up in 3 words: laughter, family, and FUN!

I will give you the run-down in short version. Friday night, my Bubby & I went to Conway to watch Autumn play basketball. It was nice to just be me and Bubby. Quite honestly, we haven't had the best relationship in the past few years, and I hope this is the beginnings of a newer, healthier one. He even took me out to eat dinner after the game AND he treated! I would say we are off to a great start! ha!

Saturday, I got to sleep in for the first time in forever! Then, me, Sandy, and Peggy headed out for a day of scrapbook shopping...no bargains were found (oh, except our cool new shades), but we had lots of laughs. And, no one fell down! LOL!

Then, today (my actual birthday - I tend to celebrate for a week instead of day) I went to see Kevin. My mom, his parents and Kevin's nephew joined us at the service. His Mom brought me the biggest birthday cake EVER! Just look at all that chocolate!! "Don't worry kid - there's plenty! I'll share!" HA!

And, Kevin made me a HUGE birthday cookie! Isn't he sweet?

Oh, it's good to be 29....again!

T.G.I.F.

This was the slowest week!!!

I hobbled through yesterday after my latest fall. The kids were very nice to me yesterday and good....maybe I'm on to something here! ha! Seriously, this fall was worse than when I fell down the bleachers this summer at the horse show. Remember that one? hee-hee! I am definitely getting older because I still hurt this morning!

I have another full, fun-filled weekend ahead. More basketball, time with my BFF's scrap shopping, and of course, a day with Kevin. It's all good! Even the part about turning 29 again!

Have a GREAT weekend!

I lost AGAIN!

Remember this fight I lost at Thanksgiving with my teenage cousin, Tanner:

Well, weeks ago, I got silly string and have had it in my purse for just the right moment to pay him back. It would have worked too, IF I weren't clumsy!! I mean, what was I thinking running at full speed carrying a purse in one hand and silly string in another and trying to navigate stepping off a curve?!?

Oh yes, you guessed it, I busted it and I busted it good and hard on the pavement in the parking lot at TaMolly's. I have skinned up knees, an elbow, and both hands to prove it. So, that is 2 points for Tanner and 0 points for me.

But, I have to admit it was good for a laugh. I have thought about it several times tonight and just started giggling....now, I am going to take some back and body and go to bed!! I may not be able to move tomorrow! LOL!

Check it out...

I give up on trying to get the video actually ON my blog...I'm just going to send you over if you are interested. John 3:16 Ministry was on the Jonesboro news last night (about 40 second clip). They are helping with clean-up in Hoxie from the ice. Anyway...go to the news site below and check it out. The videos are to the right. Also, if you are interested, type John 3:16 into the search bar and it will show a video called Offbeat with Bob that highlights what John 3:16 Ministries is all about. Enjoy!

www.kait8.com

Notes of life lately...

**I had to make myself just breathe and slow down tonight. I am feeling very overwhelmed lately. It just seems like I have zero downtime. At work, I feel behind on everything. I love my job, but it is impossible to ever be completely caught up. After full work weeks, I have full weekends. I need a break!! And, I might have to take a day off work to just get caught up! I knew it was getting out of control when on scrap night, I wasn't focused on a fun night with the girls, but was already thinking of everything else I needed to get done. Not good! So, tonight, I made myself just leave everything and veg on the couch for mindless tv with Jax. I have to calm down...it will all get done (eventually)!

**On another note ~ while I am stressed over little things, family in the northern part of Arkansas is still without power and may be for at least 2 more weeks. Keep my parents, Kevin's parents, my Aunt & Uncle, cousins, and my Granny in your thoughts and prayers. They are ALL still without power - since last week! They all now have generators, but it is still not fun! Kevin's parents even had a tree fall into their bedroom and have a nice hole in their roof to deal with. And, meanwhile, all we got here was a rain...just hours away. Crazy!

**It is now February and I can say Kevin will be home SOON!! It is looking like either the 8th or 15th of March. Yippee!!!!!

**Service at John 3:16 was very inspiring and moving this week. The director actually led the service. He has an amazing testimony. He shared his story with us, and I literally had tears rolling down my cheeks throughout the service. God is so good and forgiving. He took this man who was an addict and stealing from his kids to pay for cocaine and lifted him out of that life to start a camp for others with addictions. He is able to reach these men like no one else could because he has walked in their shoes and made it to the other side. That is just one story of overcoming addiction. There are so many more. There is hope. If you love an addict or know someone that does, don't give up. Keep praying. Don't give up, but don't be afraid to give tough love either. That is what it took to get Kevin where he is today. There is always hope!!

My scrap girls ROCK!

Friday was scrap night and they surprised me with a YUMMY birthday cake. So begins the start of my birthday WEEK. Ha! (Although, I am not too pumped about being 36...how did that happen? So, if anyone asks, I am 29 ~ again!) I only managed to scrap 2 pages Friday night...a record worst for me. Must be the age thing! Or, maybe I'm saving up for my full weekend of scrapbooking that is coming up! woohoo!

Oh, and my actual birthday isn't until Sunday the 8th. I have a week left of my mid-30's. Doesn't 36 seem too close to 40??? Don't answer that!

Call a Plumber....or NOT!

I seriously doubt anyone else could make changing the seal on a toilet fun besides my awesome cousins! No need to call a plumber for a leaking toilet when you've got handy cousin's like mine! We laughed & had a good 'ole time...once we got past the yuck part! ha!

And, you know there were plumber's crack jokes...

"Ok...seriously, we are listening now Tanner...what are you trying to do?"

I promised Sandy I wouldn't post any pictures of her (after all, she was sick AND fixing my toilet! What a friend!). But really, she did all the work. She taught herself on the internet how to change the seal when it happened at her house. Way to go Sandy! So, for all your toilet needs, just call her! heehee!

Thank you Sandy and Tanner for helping me out. And, of course, for all the belly laughs! Love you both!

As Promised...

(these are both only 19 seconds a piece) In the top one Autumn is shooting free throws. She doesn't make them, but she looks good trying! :-) And, in the bottom one she has the ball the whole time. And, mostly that is "Grandma" yelling in the background...heehee! Love ya Mom! But, I did yell "wrong way" once. Love these games!

Now that's ICE!!

I am out of school today for an "ice storm" but it has really been a rain day. I have heard from a few people that the bridges and overpasses were icy this morning, so best not to risk the school buses. Especially since one was in a wreck last night with 10 kids on board. I am pretty sure that's why they didn't risk it this morning. But, it is supposed to get worse for us tonight.

Meanwhile, my BFF in NW Arkansas is getting a REAL ice storm!! Check out these awesome pics she just sent me:

Isn't Jacob a cutie? She taught him from an early age to be good for the camera...Momma is a scrapbooker you know! :-)

That is a great shot Michelle! I am praying you don't lose power! Stay warm...

Burning up the roads again!

This weekend was busy and awesome! I'll keep it short - or try to! And, I am mad at myself that I either forgot my camera (Friday night) or forgot to take pictures (Saturday!)...ooopps!

Ok - Friday was awesome for several reasons. The first being the most obvious - there was a camp meeting at John 3:16, and I got to see Kevin!! The other great part of that is the meeting was put on by Newport. This is where Kevin and I grew up, so we got to see some people from High School and Church that we haven't seen since we graduated. One of which was one of my best buds in high school. (and as an aside - it goes to show that alcoholism can hit even those you least expect it to. This guy was one of my good friends that I ran around with when I was tired of being "bad" and just wanted to relax and not have peer pressure. He never got in trouble or drank in High School. As a matter of fact, we would always go for milk shakes! ha! Anyway, turns out he was in rehab for about a month for alcoholism right after college. It can happen to anyone.) But enough of that, it was just great to see him. oh, and here is why I'm mad I forgot my camera - Kevin played the bongo's at the end of the night with the band that plays at John 3:16!!! I will have to get it next time!

I could keep going about Friday, but I'll move on to the Saturday highlights. Autumn had another Upward basketball game. I just cannot get good pictures at these games. She did make her first basket! yay Autumn! (and it was right after I stopped videoing - I had zero camera luck this weekend! ha!) Here she is chillin' and waiting on her turn....(#42).

Oh, and I thought this was cute - they make this grand entrance with the announcer and the foggy smoke screen. heehee!

After the game, some of us went with Mom to look at a horse trailer. Well, she bought it! A 4-horse trailer with living quarters in the front. It is nice!! I would show you, but, yep, forgot to get a picture! Jeez!!

Sunday, I was back on the road ~ day 3 in the car! Off to John 3:16 again, and it was another great visit. You know, we are almost to February and then I can say, "next month, he comes home!" yeehaw!

*Mom, I will post a video or two tomorrow of her game! :-)

Lessons I've learned

Yesterday marked 5 years since my ex-hubs walked out of our marriage....5 years of being divorced and single...time flies (when you're having fun!) Here's some things I've learned from my divorce:

*Ladies, if you think your husband might be having an affair, he is. Plain and simple. Trust your instincts. God gave them to us for a reason. Don't be afraid to listen to your gut like I was.

*Don't think your friends will rat out your cheating spouse. They won't. No one wants to be the one to tell you and break your heart.

*Let yourself feel the pain of the loss of your marriage. Cry. (but don't cry as long as I did.)

*Know when to let go. Know when it's worth fighting to stay. (Use those instincts again.)

*Don't be nasty during the divorce - especially if you have kids. You are a part of each other's history and lives. Find a way to keep it simple and be civil to each other.

*Learn who your true friends are (not the ones who just want the latest dish so they can gossip)...rely on your true friends to help you through the tough spots.

*Oh, and definitely you need a good dog! Jax was a life saver! :-)

*I had a hard time with being ashamed of the fact that I was divorced. Don't be ashamed.

*Don't worry about what anyone thinks - your true friends and family love you no matter what!

*Don't immediately start dating. Find yourself, your happiness and your independence first.

*Have a "fun fling" before you look for a serious relationship.

*Even though you hate hearing it - that life will get better and you will be happy again. It is true. When you finally let go of the marriage and life that really wasn't happy in the first place, you will find yourself laughing again, reconnecting with old friends, making new friends, and genuinely enjoying life like you are supposed to! I PROMISE!

Lovin' the next few days!

I always LOVE Friday's but tomorrow will be even better because I will get to see Kevin! Then, I will be entertained on Saturday with another of my niece's Upward basketball games. I hope to get better pictures this time around! And of course, Sunday, I get to see Kevin again. I just hope the weekend isn't over in a flash...good stuff coming!

The Prayer of Jabez by Bruce Wilkinson

Preface from the author: Dear Reader, I want to teach you how to pray a daring prayer that God always answers. It is brief - only one sentence with four parts - and tucked away in the Bible, but I believe it contains the key to a life of extraordinary favor with God.
This petition has radically changed what I expect from God and what I experience every day by His power. In fact, thousands of believers who are appying its truths are seeing miracles happen on a regular basis.

What I thought: Before reading this, I always felt a felt it was selfish to pray for myself but had no problem praying for others. I would recommend anyone to read this...I read it as my Bible companion for the past week. It has really made me think about my prayer life.

Things I don't understand...

...why we as women cry sometimes but we don't know why we are crying and can't stop!
...people give their unsolicited opinion when they know it is only going to hurt the person they are giving it to.
...all contractors show their butt cracks when they are working. What is the deal with that? Is it a job requirement? ha!
...People that drive slow until you try to pass them and then they speed up.
...how some people can take a little thing and completely blow it out of proportion.
...parents who neglect their children!
...how the weekends FLY by and the work week is so long!
...why it is so hard to talk about the Bible with those you are unsure of their faith but so easy with those you know share your beliefs.
...why our pets can't live longer.
...how anyone could think that Mr. Pibb could ever be substituted for Dr. Pepper! HELLO?

I can't think of a cute title...

Moving on to my 4th book of the year already ... I hope I keep this up!! Thank you Jill for your fab idea to grade papers from 2:30 to 3:00 everyday and not bring work home. Now, I have time to do what I like to do instead of grade, grade, grade!!

See how behind I am ~ this is my shelf (and they sort of pile over onto another shelf too) of books waiting to be read: I am not going to lie to you, I am probably going back to a good old mystery after that last book I read (see post below). I have been really missing Kevin the past few days even more than I normally do. Reading a love story that makes me bawl at the end didn't help matters! I know we only have about 8 weeks to go, but I am ready to have my best friend back. It is almost bittersweet that he comes home in 8 weeks, because after a few weeks home, he is going back to Batesville for 2 months for a job that will allow him to give back to the ministry. Of course, I think it's great he gets to give back. And, I am grateful beyond words for what the ministry has done for us and for him. But, I can still have moments where I want him home to laugh with, watch tv with, piddle in the yard with, take road trips to nowhere with, cook with...oh wait, I mean him cook for ME! heehee! I just miss my Big Bear, and I miss him even more when I think about how it's going to be even better than before when he comes home.

The Choice by Nicholas Sparks

From the book jacket: Travis Parker has everything a man could want: a good job, loyal friends, even a waterfront home in small-town North Carolina. In full pursuit of teh good life - boating, swimming, and regular barbecues with his close buddies - he holds the vague conviction that a serious relationship with a woman would only cramp his style. That is until Gabby Holland moves in next door.
Despite his attempts to be neighborly, the attractive redhead seems to have a grudge against him...and the presence of her longtime boyfriend doesn't help. Still, Travis can't stop trying to ingrtiate himself with his new neighbor, and his persistent efforts lead them both to the doorstep of a journey that neither could have foreseen. Spanning the eventful years of young love, marriage, adn family, THE CHOICE, utimately confronts us with the most heartwretching question of all: How far should you go to keep the hope of love alive?

What I thought: Well, I wanted a light, easy read after my last book and I got it right up until the end. I have literally been bawling while finishing this book!! Thoughtout reading the book, I thought it was exactly what I needed a light, predictable love story. But I didn't see that ending coming and the tears...my eyes are going to be swollen tomorrow from crying. But as one of my students said last year when I came to school with puffy eyes after finishing Marley and Me, "Ms. J, a good book will do that to ya!"

Spring Class

Here's the skinny on my master's class this spring ~

I had my first class this weekend and considering I am getting my Master's in Library Media, I thought it was kind of funny that this is the first class I've actually had IN the library!! (and I'm almost finished!) I'm not going to lie to you - it's a LONG day, but luckily instead of 8 am to 4 pm. The professor is cutting it back to 9 am to 3 pm....every little bit helps!

In my master's classes, most of the students are my age (mid-30's) or forever 29, however you want to look at it! ha! Well, this semester there are two girls in the class who apparently decided to get their master's straight after finishing their bachelor's. So, we had to look at two stylish hottie's in their twenties all day and wonder when WE all got old!! And of course, by the end of the day, there was that ONE classmate who got on everyone's nerves!! It is amazing how there is always ONE who won't shut-up, knows everything, and asks too many questions when everyone is ready to leave. She may not survive the semester! LOL!

Work wise ~ I think this class is going to be a good class. The professor started off by saying he knew we all had full-time jobs and a life outside of his class. Very good sign!! :-) Now, 5 more Saturday's, 4 small assignments, 2 big assignments, 4 quizzes, some chapter reading and a final to go.....

Busy Days Ahead...

Well, my Master's classes start back this Saturday, and when I put everything on my calendar....LOOK OUT! Not one free weekend until the first of March! Yikes!! I better sleep in and enjoy my day off Monday for MLK Jr. Day, because I won't get to sleep in again for awhile. Unless, we get a snow day sometime... :-)

This is my last class on Saturday's though...whew! I'll let you know after Saturday, but I heard this class won't be too bad. Fingers crossed!! After having two months off from taking classes, it is going to take a bit to get me back in the groove. I just have to keep saying, 'only three to go, only three to go'.

Besides classes, there are Autumn's basketball games (fun), fundraisers at John 3:16 (fun), and are you ready for this one???? A FULL weekend of SCRAPBOOKING at a scrapbook retreat in Hot Springs with 3 other scrappin' buddies (double fun!). Yep, life is busy, but life is GOOD!

Hour Game by David Baldacci

*2nd book this year and it's only the middle of January!! yes!

From the jacket: A woman is found murdered in the woods with a very special watch on her wrist - and what seemed a simple case soon escalates into a nightmare. The criminal methods of some of the most infamous killers of all time are being replicated by a new predator who stalks and strikes victims with a cunning brilliance. No one can understand the murderer's motives or who the next victim will be.
Drawn into this violent affair are two Secret Service agents turned private investigators, Sean King and Michelle Maxwell. Both have been hired to prove a man's innocence in a domestic burglary involving an aristocratic, if dysfunctional, family. soon stunning secrets will lead the partners into the middle of a frantic search for a killer unlike any they've confronted before.
As the Hour Game barrels forward, Sean and Michelle face a macabre puzzle and uncover one horrifying revelation after another. Nearing the truth, they will find that their own lives are in danger. And then they're hit with the biggest surprise of all.

What I thought: LOVED IT! This book had me hooked. I could NOT figure out how all the pieces would connect or who was doing it. I didn't know until they revealed the killer who it was!! I love that because I read so many mysteries that usually I have someone in mind. Last night, I had about 80 pages to go and after school today hurried home to finish. I NEVER do that! So, if you like a good mystery, I recommend it.

Kid Talk

Here is a good funny for you ~ I was told that there was some inappropriate conversations taking place in the cafeteria at the table with my class. So, in case, you weren't aware, teachers are also investigators. We have to get to the bottom of all of these situations all while trying to teach...but anyway, I start calling a few kids one at a time into the hall to question them. And here is one of the conversations that made me giggle inside, because I couldn't show my expressions to the kid.

Me to girl student: Did you hear any of the boys talking about inappropriate things at lunch?

girl student: oh, yes ma'am

Me: What did they say?

girl student : well, Ms. J, they were talking about balls. And, not the good kind.

Heehee! Not the good kind!

Autumn in action...

A few clips from Autumn's first basketball game with Upward. Once she caught on and decided to steal...LOOK OUT! :-)

First video is only 23 seconds - she is in green with a blue wrist band.

In this one (40 seconds) she has on a yellow band. At first, I think she forgot she was IN the game. heehee!

Weekend Wrap-Up

First of all, this week FLEW by and followed with a nice, quiet family weekend!

Friday night, I went to dinner with big 'ole group of family to say bye to my cousin who is leaving for college (actually left today). But he is only about an hour away...still, his Mom, one of my BFF's, now has an empty nest. Poor Peggy! Maybe she'll get all caught up on scrappin' now! You gotta think of the positives! :-) We are good at that - we managed to have TWO go out to eat to say good-bye to Jared nights this week! ha!

Saturday, I met my Bubby and Mom in Conway to watch my niece, Autumn in her first Upward Basketball game. It was great! Lots of laughs!! They were a little lost at first but actually ended up coming back to only lose by 2 points! Then we went to eat and shop a little.

See the basketball hair:

Thank goodness she isn't a girlie girl!! ha!

And I wrapped up the weekend by starting a new book and spending some quality time curled up with Jax reading. And, of course, I went to see Kevin today!!

Hope everyone else had a good weekend too! :-)

Here today, gone tomorrow!

That's the fun part of Christmas money and gift cards...it burns a hole in my pocket until I use it all and use it for FUN stuff!! Shopping with no stress about the pocketbook...it doesn't get much better!

This year I scored a $40 gift card to Bed, Bath and Beyond and $25 Visa card from parents in my room as TEACHER GIFTS!! Hello - awesome!! Then, I got a $50 gift card and $200 in cash from family to blow. Needless to say, I was set! And my first mission was to turn this guest room that somehow became a dog room back into a guest room!! Seriously, this is where Kevin slept when he was in trouble (the doghouse) and apparently Jax uses this bed all day to look out the window for me (see how spoiled he is? I leave the blinds up enough for him during the day! ha!)

Before: After: (thank you Kohl's...the sale even threw in the sheets for free!)
Next on the list...work on the guest bath (aka Kevin's bath that is slowly transforming to a Razorback bathroom). I am trying to do it subtly without just big HOGS everywhere...so here is the new shower curtain with Razorback red in it.
And then, to bring in the Hog theme...this is what holds up the shower curtain:

I still wasn't finished spending freely...I got some Bath & Body Works stuff (great sale, LOVE that store), 2 CD's, and my Boxer calendars for the year. Woo-hoo!

THANK YOU to everyone who contributed to my spending FUN!! :-)

Wordless Wednesday

*credit goes to my Uncle over at Focused Distortion for taking this awesome action shot!

Ice...

Ice can be pretty...but it can also make trees heavy and cause them to fall on power lines. The trees can fall across roads that are the ONLY way in and out of a neighborhood. Downed power lines cause electricity to go out in the middle of the night - which causes heat to go out, alarm clocks not to go off when needed, nightlights not to work, house alarms to beep every 30 seconds AND teachers not to be there to pick up their kids on time or have a shower before work!!! Ohhh, and let's not forget that garage doors don't go up with the push of a button when the power is out. Picture one blonde standing in a dark garage scratching her head and trying to remember exactly what the trick was to release the garage door. Picture same blonde making it to work to have one of her 3rd graders simply ask, "Why didn't you just pull the cord?" Thanks Erwin! Where were you when I need ya? LOL!

Storybooks

Remember those top secret Christmas presents that I was working on using the computer? The ones I wanted so badly to share with you but couldn't because family reads and the surprise would be ruined...well, here they are! I made scrapbooks on-line for my Mom, Bubby and Autumn. In my opinion, waaaay better than making them a scrapbook the old fashioned way. There is no way I could've had the time needed to make 3 separate scrapbooks the old fashioned way!

These are great gifts - especially for those of you with kids. Grandparents eat up anything revolving around their grandkids!! :-)

Autumn's book was a smaller size and was more personalized to her. The text I typed might say, "We are so proud of you." This is an example page from her book... And this was her cover:
These are pages from Mom and Bubby's book. I made one book for them and had it printed twice. If you decide to do this, it is easy!! There are lots of sites that you can do this on. I really like the one I used with Creative Memories because it really looks like a scrapbook and has lots of scrapbook features. Give yourself a several hours to make one if you want to do it right. First, I picked all the pics I wanted to use and put them all in one file. Then, it was just dragging them to where I wanted and picking the page design I wanted to use. After I designed all the pages, I went back and added text. I waited a day and proof read everything, because if you type a mistake, it prints.
See how the colors are coordinated, but you can pick different layouts?Here is Mom and Bubby's book cover:
(My favorite picture!!!) If you want the link to this website, send me an email. I will hook you up with my BFF, Michelle, so she can get credit for any purchases. You know she sells Creative Memories...gotta give her a plug here! (Or maybe she will leave a comment with easy instructions, because I always have to ask her the name of the site!)