These are the days...

I've moved...

2009-03-20T10:19:00.001-05:00

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!

2009-03-16T08:15:00.002-05:00

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!!!

2009-03-15T06:28:00.002-05:00

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

2009-03-14T21:10:00.002-05:00

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?

2009-03-12T18:41:00.002-05:00

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!

2009-03-10T19:11:00.003-05:00

*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...

2009-03-09T16:17:00.002-05:00

...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...

2009-03-05T19:56:00.002-06:00

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

2009-03-03T21:02:00.002-06:00

*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!!

2009-03-02T21:21:00.003-06:00

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!!

2009-03-01T18:56:00.002-06:00

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!

2009-02-25T17:15:00.004-06:00

*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...

2009-02-24T20:40:00.002-06:00

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...

2009-02-23T20:58:00.002-06:00

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

2009-02-22T19:48:00.002-06:00

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

2009-02-19T19:40:00.004-06:00

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

2009-02-18T19:44:00.000-06:00

Counting down...

2009-02-17T18:58:00.003-06:00

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

Handmade Valentine's R the BEST!

2009-02-16T18:49:00.003-06:00

*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?

2009-02-15T18:05:00.003-06:00

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...

2009-02-12T18:57:00.004-06:00

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

2009-02-11T20:29:00.002-06:00

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.

2009-02-10T19:57:00.002-06:00

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!

2009-02-08T19:29:00.005-06:00

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.

2009-02-06T06:28:00.003-06:00

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!

2009-02-04T20:45:00.003-06:00

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...

2009-02-03T16:53:00.015-06:00

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...

2009-02-02T21:40:00.002-06:00

**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!

2009-02-01T21:03:00.002-06:00

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!

2009-01-29T20:00:00.003-06:00

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...

2009-01-28T20:31:00.004-06:00

(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!!

2009-01-27T15:56:00.003-06:00

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!

2009-01-26T21:13:00.006-06:00

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

2009-01-24T20:12:00.002-06:00

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!

2009-01-22T21:25:00.003-06:00

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

2009-01-22T21:19:00.002-06:00

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...

2009-01-21T21:24:00.003-06:00

...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...

2009-01-20T19:11:00.002-06:00

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

2009-01-20T18:57:00.002-06:00

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

2009-01-18T18:01:00.003-06:00

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...

2009-01-15T21:22:00.002-06:00

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

2009-01-14T19:08:00.003-06:00

*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

2009-01-13T21:21:00.002-06:00

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...

2009-01-12T18:07:00.006-06:00

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

2009-01-11T17:48:00.003-06:00

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!

2009-01-08T19:01:00.007-06:00

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

2009-01-07T21:18:00.004-06:00

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

Ice...

2009-01-06T20:35:00.003-06:00

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

2009-01-05T19:54:00.005-06:00

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!)

God's Power to Change Your Life By Rick Warren

2009-01-05T19:45:00.002-06:00

**Book #1 for 2009 challenge! :-)

From the jacket: Actually, I think you could see more of what the book is about just by listing the chapter titles. Chapter 1 - The power to change your life; chapter 2 - God's part & my part in changing me; chapter 3 - becoming a more loving person; chapter 4 - the choice to rejoice!; chapter 5 - peaceful living in an uptight world; chaper 6 - developing your patience; chapter 7 - putting on a little kindness; chapter 8 - living the good life; chapter 9 - the one who can be counted on; chapter 10 - a gentle approach; chapter 11 - developing self-control; chapter 12 - a productive life

What I thought: I love Rick Warren books and have just started to try to branch away from him a bit to read others also. This book was my companion book to the Bible for the past few weeks. After reading my verses and my daily bread, I would read a chapter or half a chapter from this book. I really liked it - some chapters really stuck with me throughout the week and would help me stay calm in situations where I might want to loose my patience! :-) Mainly, I need to remember to praise God in every circumstance.

Boo-Hiss!

2009-01-04T17:10:00.002-06:00

I cannot believe that my vacation is over and tomorrow I have to actually earn my paycheck! It went FAST! I am really going to have a hard time getting my sleep back on schedule and imagine I may be a bit cranky tomorrow! I had to get up this morning to go see Kevin at John 3:16 and last night I could NOT make myself go to sleep. I have been bright eyed the past two nights until 2 am!!! On the positive side of that, I got out my Will & Grace DVD's and have giggled until 2 am! I miss Will & Grace...

Besides having to go back to work tomorrow and having insomnia, somehow today's visit went all wrong. It was great up until the last hour and then it turned into one of those conversations where you want a rewind button so you can see where it took a wrong turn. Everything I said, he misunderstood and everything he said, I misunderstood. And, visiting time was up and now we can't talk about it until next week or in letters. Jeez!

Soooo....Boo-Hiss!

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-01T20:32:00.002-06:00

A new year means making resolutions...I've seen some good ones! I decided to look back at my 2008 resolutions & do a check up before making new ones. It seems like since I stopped saying things like I will work out or lose weight, I do much better with my resolutions! ha!

Here was 2008:
*continue NOT smoking (I've made it just over a year now!) I can officially take this one off the list this year. It has been over 2 years now since I've smoked!! And, I no longer have the faintest desire! woo-hoo!!!
*now I need to be brave enough to join the church instead of just visiting each week Kevin & I struggled to find the right church all year, and I have to say that John 3:16 is our home church. I wrote my first tithe check today! yippee!
*read more ~ not just when I am on vacation from school, but year round! 14 books and counting...
*slow down and enjoy the moment I am IN! :-) Better keep this one on the list because I could still improve on enjoying the moment and not looking ahead...

2009 Resolutions ~ drumroll.......
This year I will:
*Continue to work on enjoying the moment I am IN...all the little moments too! :-) Sometimes I am much better at this than others!
*Start sending birthday and anniversary cards in the mail rather than using the internet and email.
*Find time everyday for quiet Bible reading & prayer.

And, I challenge myself to read even more books in 2009 than in 2008!!! (Less tv and more reading)

I wish everyone a Happy New Year and all of us lots of luck and perseverance in keeping our resolutions!! LOL!

Now, I may disappear for a few days while I go into a heavy denial that I have to actually go back to work on Monday!! Bummer! I kind of like this staying at home and still getting a paycheck stuff! ha!

Wordless Wednesday: My cowboy

2008-12-31T11:49:00.002-06:00

The Shack by WM. Paul Young

2008-12-31T11:39:00.002-06:00

From the jacket: Mackenzie Allen Philips's youngest daughter, Missy, has been abducted during a family vacation and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later, in the midst of his Great Sadness, Mack receives a suspicious note, apparently from God, inviting him back to that shack for a weekend.
Against his better judgment he arrives at the shack on a wintry afternoon and walks back into his darkest nightmare. What he finds there will change Mack's world forever.

In a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant The Shack wrestles with the timeless question: Where is God in the a world so filled with unspeakable pain? The answers Mack gets will astound you and perhaps transform you as much as it did him.

My thoughts: First of all, I have to THANK YOU to my Aunt Kim for telling about this book and telling me I needed to read it. Having just finished it, I am not sure I have the words yet to justify the intensity of this book. Wow! The first day of reading, I had to just put it down and let some things soak in. The second day of reading, I just cried. I am sure we have all asked ourselves when horrible things happen, why did God let it happen? This book gives some insight and really gets you to thinking about things. I am sure that it will affect different people differently depending on your life. I am not one to read a book twice, but this is one that I almost want to read a second time to make sure I didn't miss anything! Awesome!!

Priorities...

2008-12-30T09:02:00.003-06:00

This blog has been temporarily interrupted for a FULL DAY OF SCRAPBOOKING with my scrappin' peeps!!! So...the way I see it, that gives you time to read the post below and vote!!!

til tomorrow....

Opinions Please!!

2008-12-28T18:55:00.004-06:00

And folks, that means you can't just read it, you have to actually leave a comment with your opinion!! If you are really comment challenged, then shot me an email. Indulge me people!

Ok - this is a fun topic...well, fun to some I guess! Kevin and I have been talking about our wedding lately (gasp - what?!? Did she say wedding? Yes, she did! Now, before the gossip really kicks up, let me say this - we are not officially engaged or anything. We are kind of like that Dixie Chicks song "I shouldn't be wearing white and you can't afford no ring." LOL!) Ok - seriously, it is not a matter of if we get married but when. I mean really do you think we we've been through all this and stuck by each other for nothing? :-) Our love has done nothing but grow stronger with each trial that has come our way.

So...here's where your opinion matters (sort of - I mean you know we'll do what we want anyway! Ha!). What kind of wedding should we have? After all, it is a second marriage for both of us. But, then you gotta look at our history and all we've been through together over just the past 2 1/2 years...that doesn't even count us breaking each others hearts when we were 15 years old. He will, of course, tell you that I broke HIS...But, I am getting off topic...

Here are the wedding options we have come up with:

Option 1 ~ (Kevin's idea & a sweet one at that) We could get married in Newport at the church where we met & grew up in as little kids by the preacher we both loved as kids. Small, simple, very casual ceremony with close friends and family.

Option 2 ~ (my idea) We could take our parents on a trip and just get married on a beach somewhere barefoot in the sand...no stressful planning.

Option 3 ~ (Director at John 3:16 idea) We could get married at the chapel at John 3:16. Again, small, simple, very casual with close friends and family. No one that has gotten married there has gotten a divorce. (just a side note - ha).

**Note: When I say close friends and family, both our families are big. A family gathering with my family alone is 45 people and his family is about the same...I don't want big...how to do you make cuts? There are so many people who have supported us and I wouldn't want them left out. This is when option 2 looks good to me! :-)

Now...let's hear it. You have to choose 1, 2, or 3 unless you have a really cool idea. Oh, if there are any negative nellies out there who don't think we should get married, well, your vote doesn't count! hee-hee

Back again!

2008-12-26T15:56:00.006-06:00

I am finally home again after burning up the Arkansas highways some more for the holidays! I am tired of being in the car for sure!! I took Kevin back to camp today after getting to be with him for 2 days, and I'm not going to lie to you. It was a little bit hard to leave him. I cried...a few times! :-) But, it's all for the best...luckily, we were never sad at the same time, so the other one could hold the sad one up! Funny how that works...anyway, we know how blessed we were to be together and with our families for Christmas.

On a cheerful note (cause you know I don't like to be sad for long...I'm about to take it out on this house and give it a good scrubbin', then I'll be fine! ha!), here are some of our Christmas favorites this year.

Kevin's favorite moments were our car rides together because it was just the two of us (isn't he a sweet one! hee-hee!).

My favorite moments were playing guitar hero with his nephews. That was FUN! I want one of those games!! I went from 21% on my first try to 70% by the end of the day!! Pretty good progress. Although, I am horrible!!! ha!

My other favorite moments were out riding the horses on Christmas day with my nieces. You knew we'd have to get horses in sometime!! :-) It was so COLD, but I still loved it! My feet stayed on the ground, and I took pictures. But, Autumn just had to dare Kevin to ride and call him a chicken. So...he can't resist a dare and rode Shena! She's not always nice, but he didn't get thrown! ha!
Favorite presents...

My favorite presents were my Dr. Pepper PJ pants (How AWESOME!! You know how much I love DP!!!), my Christmas money, and a book from Mom called Old Dogs are the Best Dogs. Of course, after 2 sentences, I cried! Kevin's favorite presents were his BB gun (he was like a little kid and wanted to immediately go outside and start shooting things!!) and his Christmas money. Can't wait to hear about everyone else's holidays!!

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

2008-12-23T20:25:00.002-06:00

From the whole clan...even the cats! :-)

Cross Country By James Patterson

2008-12-23T20:18:00.004-06:00

From the jacket: Detective Alex Cross is called to the worst murder scene he has encountered in all his years on the force. Someone with less than zero regard for human life has slaughtered a family - and then more killings, each one more ruthless than the last, quickly follow. One of these deaths comes terrifyingly close to home, and Alex realizes that he is chasing a horrible new breed of killer.

As Alex and his girlfriend, Detective Brianna Stone, dig deeper into the case, they become entangled in the deadly African underworld of Washington DC. What they discover there is so shocking that they can barely comprehend it: a strongly organized gang of teenage thugs headed by a diabolical warlord known only as the Tiger. When the elusive killer's trail turns up in Africa, Alex knows that he must follow. Alone.

My thoughts: The Alex Cross series is my absolute favorite mystery series to read and this one does NOT disappoint. I started it last night and finished it today. So - to my other Cross fans (Peggy and Christie), this is a MUST read!!

Griswold Kind of Christmas

2008-12-22T18:32:00.003-06:00

Dad had the great idea to drive us all (me, my bubby, his wife, their two girls, Mom and Dad) to Granny's for Christmas on Saturday. We had all spent the night at Mom & Dad's the night before & it made more sense than taking 3 cars AND a lot more fun!

All aboard the Griswold RV Christmas train!!!!

Now, there are many fun moments that need to be written down and remembered about this trip. But, first you should all know that we cheered and clapped when we made it to Granny's driveway. On this 2 hour drive, we had no heat and it was COLD. We were all covered in blankets...except Dad...the driver in the front had heat. Ours was escaping through the vent that we very quickly discovered was missing a screw and wouldn't crank down! ha!

When we were within 45 minutes or so of our destination, we noticed we were losing speed...hmmm? Not going over 45 mph and cars passing us left and right. The adults noticed a puttering kind of feel to the RV. Many "think we are going to make it" looks passed between the adults!!! But we made it & after we opened gifts, Dad left with Uncle Terry to work on the RV, so we could make it home safely. So, imagine being 2 hours away and 6 of us at Granny's house wondering if our ride was going to be repaired or if we were stuck....stuck in itty, bitty Piggott!! Dad fixed it and we were all saved...saved to ride home in the even colder weather with no heat! :-) But it was FUN! I vote we take the RV every year.

My favorite moment was when a car blocked dad from making his turn and we all asked where he was going he said, "Some *#*hole cut me off & I missed my turn!" Autumn whipped around QUICK and pointed her finger at him and said, "I can't believe you just said that!" You probably had to be there, but we were all rolling!!

Thanks Dad for getting there and back safely! I loved having a Griswold kind of Christmas!

It's Santa!

2008-12-21T20:41:00.003-06:00

I've been traveling Arkansas again since Friday, so I'm going to backtrack and tell you about Friday first! :-)

Friday was a good day!! I had my most successful school Christmas party in 11 years of teaching - awesome room mom this year!! AWESOME! We had a craft station, a game station, and a food station. They rotated through in small groups and PARENTS ran each station - fabulous!! Plus, I got some really good teacher gifts! ha!

At 2:25, I breathed a sigh of relief that I had finally made it to Christmas Break! Woo-hoo! Two weeks off!! I loaded up all my loot and headed out of town. Stop 1 was the Christmas program at John 3:16 Ministries....and guess who was Santa for the kids???

Recognize that face? hee-hee! Kevin made a great Santa!! One kid was in such awe that he just stood in the aisle jumping up and down! ha! It was a great program and a good start to a holiday filled weekend.

After the program, I headed to Mom & Dad's to spend the night...tune in tomorrow to see pics of our Christmas Adventure...and an adventure it was!

Let the fun begin...

2008-12-18T20:50:00.004-06:00

Got this from Vader's Mom and and the rule is if you read it, you were supposed to play. So sure - why not!?! I needed a post! :-)

1.Do you like cheese? Of course. It makes everything better!
2.Have you ever smoked? yes for years...but not for the past two! woo-hoo!
3. Do you own a gun? You bet I do! Dad just gave me a new one!
4. Do you like listening to Christmas music? Sometimes. I have to be in the mood.
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? not really
6. What do you think of hot dogs? I like them at ballgames or when I'm camping!
7. Favorite Christmas song for all time? Silent Night
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Dr. Pepper
9. Can you do push ups? very doubtful!!
10. Who is your favorite Grey’s Anatomy Character? Was Izzy but she's weird right now!
11. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? a watch - can't be without it
12. Favorite hobby? scrapbooking, reading, blogging...
13. Do you eat “exotic” foods? I try not to unless Kevin makes me try it!
14. Do you have A.D.D.? Not officially - sometimes I behave like I do
15. What one trait do you hate about yourself? you all know I hate my freckles
16. Middle Name? Dawn
17. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment? "My name is so country" "I am sleepy" "I am ready for it to be tomorrow at 2:30"
18. Name 3 things you bought yesterday? dinner at TaMolly's, stamps, ink cartridge
19. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink? Dr. Pepper, Dr. Pepper, Dr. Pepper
20. Current worry right now? I worry b/c Jax is getting so old...
21. Current hate? overbearing parents (at school - not mine or Kevin's -ha!)
22. Favorite place to be? camping with Kevin
23. How will you bring in the New Year? luckily, with Kevin!! :-)
24. Where would you like to go? Alaskan cruise
25. Name three people who will complete this? I don't know - surprise me!
26. Do you own flip flops? Of course - several!!!
27. What shirt are you wearing? brown sweater
28. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Don't think I've ever tried but I like warm sheets
29. Can you whistle? yes but not well
30. Favorite color? green
31. Would you be a pirate? No - I couldn't be mean (at least not for long! ha!)
32. What songs do you sing in the shower? I am too grouchy in the morning to sing anything!
33. Favorite girl’s name? not sure...
34. Favorite boy’s name? these aren't fair questions for a teacher with hyper kids right now!
35. What’s in your pocket right now? nothing
36. Last thing that made you laugh? New Adventures of Old Christine
37. Bed sheets as a child? Not sure but probably strawberry shortcake!
38. Worst injury you’ve ever had? that I remember - getting thrown from a horse
39. Do you love where you live? Yes!
40. How many TV’s do you have in your house? Two
41. Who is your loudest friend? Holly (although Kevin doesn't have an inside voice either)
42. How many dogs do you have? Just Jax!
43. Does someone have a crush on you? Kevin does since he was 15...heehee!
44. Do you get embarrassed easily? yep
45. What is your favorite book? Too many to pick...love classics and James Patterson!
46. What is your favorite candy? Nerds
47. Do you know all the words to the Fresh Prince theme song? just some...
48. What song do you want played at your funeral? Something cheerful I guess?
49. What were you doing at 12 AM last night? Sleeping
50. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? I gotta pee!

Under Construction...

2008-12-17T17:11:00.003-06:00

Yes - you are at the right place - if you are looking for Lori's blog, These are the days....

Patience - I am trying to make changes without bugging Lindsay who usually does it for me! (Although, I did buy the template from her - go to her website - she has some cool ones!)

I have NO clue what I'm doing....so bare with me!

I love snowmen so thought it would be a cute winter look...I may regret it! ha!

Lazy Day

2008-12-16T17:59:00.004-06:00

This picture of Jax NOT wanting to get out of bed pretty much sums up our day! ha! Note how he lays ACROSS the bed and leaves me with NO room and how he doesn't lay on the blanket I put on the bed for him. I get no respect! LOL!

We didn't get snow - just yucky ice. So, I stayed in all day. In between reading a book that I could not put down (review below), I did get all my Christmas presents wrapped and some ironing done. However, I never managed to shower, dress, or leave the house! Ha! I love days like today!!

Keeper of the Keys by Perri O'Shaughnessy

2008-12-16T17:49:00.002-06:00

**Finally, a good book! woo-hoo! It's been a few reads for me. And, you know I started keeping track of what I read on here this year because of my New Year's Resolution to read more. I think this made book 12 this year, so one a month....not bad for a girl working on her master's. Patting myself on the back!

From the jacket: For ambitious, troubled architect Ray Jackson, the nightmare begins one sultry California night when his wife disappears. No phone call, no ransom note, no body, reveals whether Leigh is dead or alive.
Then suddenly, a woman shows up on Ray's doorstep demanding answers: Kathleen, an old friend of Leigh's. Ray wants answers too, but his questions seem strange and shady to Kat. Suspected by his wife's friend and the police, Ray launches a desperate and alarming search of his own. Using a collection of keys he has held on to since he was a boy - keys to homes he and his mother once lived in - Ray quietly yet boldly enters each house, one by one, hoping to unlock the secrets of his past. As past and present collide, as a chilling mystery begins to unravel, Ray is suddenly confronted with the most agonizing decision of his life - to face his own violence-laden past, acting to prevent another horrendous act of violence, or not. His choice will leave nothing and no one the same.

What I thought: I loved it! I kept changing my mind about what I thought happened to his wife through the entire book. I wanted to read more and find out what happened...couldn't put it down! If you love a good mystery, this is a good read. It also made me want to change all the locks on my house! ha!

What? A free day???

2008-12-15T19:33:00.001-06:00

The weather is looking like I may get a free day off tomorrow!!
Not snow though, just ice - bummer! But still, a free day off!
Everyone cross your fingers and toes!! hee-hee!
*updates tomorrow....

My Praise Report

2008-12-14T19:11:00.004-06:00

Every Sunday at John 3:16, the residents and graduates stand up and give their individual praise reports for what they are grateful for that week. So, in honor of them, here is mine:

This week I am grateful that Kevin has made it to the half-way point in his stay at John 3:16 and the positive changes I see him. I am grateful that Kevin had his court date this week and got that behind us. That is the closing of a chapter in Kevin's life. It was good to be reminded of how bad things had gotten, so we could truly appreciate how far he has come in the past three months.

I am grateful that John 3:16 came into our lives, because it reaches far beyond just Kevin and his addiction. I have benefited and grown from this experience too. John 3:16 has been an inspiration for me and has shown me how to live for God and with God in my life. Before this, I just went to church on Sunday, but I didn't live it. Now, I not only read my Bible nightly but I reflect on what I've read and ask how it pertains to me and my life. I seek out more material to read. I am not afraid to talk about God to other people. I have started going to a Bible Study. And, this is just the beginning of what John 3:16 has done for me. So, maybe you can see why when I say we may move to Batesville, it isn't ALL for Kevin. I feel a pull to be near this place that brought so much peace into both our lives. I praise God daily for John 3:16 and answered prayers!

Cranky

2008-12-11T19:04:00.004-06:00

I am in a funk...a cranky funk...and I am going to let it carry over into tomorrow so I can be a "mean teacher" because my kids were horrible for the sub today! Why am I cranky you ask? Oh, let me count the ways...

1. I suck at crafts. How do people wrap presents with all those cool bows and ribbon? I thought I would try it today. It looks like a 10 year old wrapped my presents!

2. Christmas planning...urgh! It stresses me to even think about it. Usually it isn't such a big ordeal but with Kevin getting to come home for two days (but with restrictions) and me wanting to be where he is, well, it complicates things. Of course, there is the big question of what to do with the dog...you know, my spoiled, rotten, high-maintenance, dog aggressive, separation anxiety, scared of storms dog? Yep, gotta figure out what to do with him....jeez! I know there are those of you that are saying he is just a dog - board him or have someone come over and throw some food his way, but I refer you back to separation anxiety dog. Plus the fact that he is not just a dog to me. He is my only companion in life that has never, ever let me down. So, I try to return the favor.

3. Then, there is my class. I got a 2 1/2 page email from the sub today. The sub that I made special arrangements to have so they could have a nice day. I should've just left it to the system and let them have any old sub. This sub is a parent of one of my kids and was mortified at their behavior. They were so disrespectful. Oh....they will regret coming to school tomorrow, I promise you that! I can't believe how they acted.

4. And, lastly, let's just be honest for a minute. I didn't play hookie from school today to go Christmas shopping. Today was Kevin's court date for his DWI. I mean, I didn't come out and say to everyone (some knew) that he got arrested for drinking and driving, but I hinted at it. And, you had to know something serious went down for me to finally give him the ultimatum of 'moving out and it's over' or 'going to rehab'. So, today was my first time in a courtroom. I didn't like it and don't ever want to go back. He got a hefty fine, a choice between 10 days in jail or 20 days of community service, a 10 hour class on alcohol and self-help, and 2 year suspended license. Good times! You know I HATE drinking and driving, H.A.T.E. it! And, I am all for consequences for your actions. But my palms were still sweating and I was still nervous for him because I love him. Do I love him enough to drive him around for 2 years? Well, yes, of course I do. As long as he also rides a bike some and walks some! :-) Live and learn.... It could have been so much worse. He could've killed someone that night. That is something he couldn't live with and neither could I.

So there you have it, my very solid reasons to be in a cranky mood. Don't tell me to cheer up...I will tomorrow at 2:25!!

Randomness...

2008-12-09T19:57:00.003-06:00

*Got my Christmas cards finished tonight and will have them in the mail tomorrow! Yay! The mail is so exciting this time of year!!

*For some odd reason as Jax has gotten older he has become afraid of thunderstorms. And this is really strange - months ago, a tornado hit close to our house and me, Jax, and the cats all hid in the closet ...well, every since then, when it storms, Jax hides in my closet! An 80 pound dog!! ha! Today, it stormed while I was at work and he drug all the clothes that were in the floor of my closet out and had them all over the bedroom. I had to laugh because I bet he spent most of his day in my closet! He's such a big baby!

*And, to keep with the random theme - here is my new favorite saying : Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's learning to dance in the rain.

*Oh, here's one more - Sandy, one of my bff's, saw this today and thought of me and Kevin - Loved you once, Love you still, Always have Always will - Awwww!

*One more thing - I just realized it has been 2 years since I last smoked!!
WOO-HOO!

Told you it was random....

Christmas Chores

2008-12-08T20:29:00.004-06:00

This is Jax telling me to STOP making Christmas presents that take hours on the computer (I'll explain later - remember, family reads), STOP addressing Christmas cards, and STOP putting Christmas stuff out and just pay attention to him! So, that's what I'm about to do!! (after blogging of course!) :-)

You will be relieved to know, I brought the Christmas tree in from the garage tonight and a few other things but not an ALL-OUT decorating fest like I normally do!

Here's the proof and yes, she is leaning. I'll deal with that later! ha!

And I need to puff her up a bit, but I refer you back to Jax's sad face. I gotta hurry and get to the couch with him! ha! It will wait!

My favorite new item this year is a gift from one of my student's last year.
I love it:

Pros & Cons

2008-12-07T21:17:00.004-06:00

Well, the cat is out of the bag that Kevin & I are discussing a possible move to be closer to John 3:16. For those of you that don't know, John 3:16 is a 2 hour drive from where we live now. We decided to look into a few things this week and make a pro/con list of relocating. Basically, this is our list....(what is funny is that our lists were almost identical!)

Pros:
1. The biggest pro was being closer to John 3:16 (I gave this one a weight of counting as 3 pro's in one). By being closer a) Kevin has more support in his addiction b) we will both be able to give back to a place that has given us both so much c) John 3:16 is like an extended family
2. We would be an hour closer to our families. (As in, my Mom would be 45 minutes away and when kids come into the picture, I can easily call for help!)
3. small town atmosphere (We are both originally from a small town - actually the football rivals of the one we are debating moving to....hmmm?)
4. Cost of living is lower.
5. Crime level is lower. (Kevin argued this point, but crime has been on my mind lately.)
6. Dry county with a much longer drive to the nearest liquor store. We live in a dry county now but the liquor store is 2 miles down the road at the county line.
7. Job opportunities are better for Kevin because that community is SO supportive of the graduates at John 3:16. He already has job offers.
8. Kevin would have access to the concessions trailer at John 3:16, and we all know his dream is to cater and run concessions. (and I want to help him sling BBQ someday!)
9. We could have a fresh start!

Cons:
1. I would miss my friends BAD! (that includes family friends, work friends, scrap friends - everybody!)
2. I would take a BIG pay cut! (Anywhere from $10,000 to $12,000)
3. Selling my house (not a sellers market right now and I would miss my house).
4. Small town (yes, this is a pro and a con - you get it if you've ever lived in a small town)....no good restaurants, decent movie theatre, not sure if they even have Wal-Mart!
5. Quality of the school district isn't as good as where we are now.

So, there you have it! And, yes, Kevin did say today that I would be the one making all the sacrifices if we moved, and that he didn't feel that was fair. It would be easy for him to move, because the only thing keeping him here is me. That being said, I am the one who brought up moving, not him, because I feel a pull to give back to John 3:16. But, maybe we can do that without moving...no decisions are being made lightly or without thought and prayer.

Any thoughts? Be honest!

Christmas Spirit

2008-12-04T20:02:00.002-06:00

That's what I'm missing this year...where is it? It is December 4th - I usually decorate the day after Thanksgiving for Christmas. Haven't yet this year and am actually contemplating NOT decorating this year! GASP! I have always decorated...what the heck is going on? You know what is really sad about it? My tree is wrapped in plastic in the garage completely decorated!!! All I have to do is carry it in, unwrap it, and plug it in. Presto! But, I just plain don't feel like it. I'm not sad. I'm not having a pity party that Kevin isn't here for Christmas. I just don't have that excitement that it is almost Christmas. Maybe it's money? I am bummed that after not charging anything for over a year and a half, I've had to charge. That sucks. But would that zap my Christmas spirit? Come on folks! Help a girl out....tell me something, anything to do to put me in the mood for the season!!! (Anything but Christmas music...I'm not one that can listen to Christmas carols! Bah-hum-bug! huh?) HELP!

More Wordless Wednesday : Turkey Day Slideshow

2008-12-03T21:06:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-03T06:27:00.002-06:00

*Me and Kevin at High School Graduation (hee-hee!)

Sunday at Tiffany's by James Patterson

2008-12-01T21:41:00.002-06:00

*I am a reading fool these days! Hee-hee! I love it! I just hope my next selection is better!!!

From the jacket: Jane Margaux is a lonely little girl. Her mother, a powerful Broadway producer, makes time for her only once a week, for their Sunday trip to admire jewelry at Tiffany's. Jane has only one friend: a handsome, comforting, funny man named Michael. He's perfect. But only she can see him. Michael can't stay forever though. On Jane's ninth birthday he leaves, promising her that she'll forget him soon. He was there to help her until she was old enough to manage on her own, and now there are other children who need his help.

Years later, in her thirties, Jane is just as alone as she was as a child. And, despite her own success as a playwright, she is even more trapped by her overbearing mother. Then she meets a man, a handsome, comforting, funny man. He's perfect -

What I thought: You all know James Patterson is my favorite author. That is the ONLY reason I read or even finished this book. He needs to stick to his mysteries - Alex Cross and the Women's Murder Club series. I just couldn't swallow a love story with an imaginary friend from childhood that is suddenly becoming humanized. What!?!? So, Christie and Peggy - skip this one! I know you are Patterson fans too, but trust me on this one!

Favorite Moments...

2008-11-30T21:18:00.003-06:00

Instead of some big long post about the Thanksgiving break, how 'bout we wrap it up nicely with a list of all my favorite moments from the past 5 days...(and with Friday's post! ha!)

**Getting to spend extra time with Kevin. We had all day Thursday and until 5pm on Friday.
**Looking through old family photos at Kevin's house from when he was little. I will have to post some later this week! I love old pictures!
**Getting a hug from my Mom when Kevin and I stopped in to see her on our way back to John 3:16.
**Playing sequence with Kevin's parents (even though we lost this time - totally my fault!) Rematch at Christmas!!
**Making our Christmas card photo...coming to a mailbox near you soon! :-)
**Sitting in a restaurant alone with Kevin and just talking.
**NO papers to grade!!!
**Getting into a whip cream fight at the family gathering with my cousin, Tanner. (although, I don't recommend this as it ruins whatever clothes you were wearing!)
**Going with my peeps to see Four Christmases after the family gathering. It was predictable but funny. I love me some Vince!!
**Last, but certainly not least, getting to laugh, hug, hold hands, talk to Kevin for 3 out of the past 5 days!!

Bittersweet

2008-11-28T21:43:00.005-06:00

*Jax looks HUGE in this picture...doesn't he? ha!

I took Kevin back to John 3:16 today. We had a great visit, but being together for two days almost made it harder to leave him behind today. Nothing went as originally planned for our Turkey Day plans, but we rolled with the punches! It actually got to be quite funny. In short version, we were given the restriction of not being able to sleep under the same roof because we aren't married. So....we went to Kevin's parents house and while me and the dog got to sleep inside, Kevin slept outside in the back of the Yukon with an extension cord running to it that plugged into a heating blanket. Seriously! LOL! Let's just say, it got interesting with some last minute planning changes, and I was once again reminded how laid-back and awesome my Mom is and how grateful I am that my future mom-in-law and I can work together to keep everyone happy!! :-)

I miss him already, but luckily I will get to see him on Sunday...

If you haven't been to the website in awhile...go! John 3:16

Why does this always happen?

2008-11-26T10:23:00.002-06:00

I left my Jeep at the shop yesterday with a list of about 8 things that need to be checked or done. (It's rolling over to 100,000 miles). Now, for those of you who have ridden in my Jeep, you all have heard and commented on the horrible, grinding noise it makes when I make turns. Guess what? yep, the guys at the shop drove it around for 20 minutes and "ma'am, we never heard a noise." URGH!!! It makes a horrible noise!! I promise! But nope, not making it today when it really needs to! Why does that always happen? So, the men think the woman is nuts!

Weekend Highlights...

2008-11-23T19:58:00.002-06:00

Friday:
*You know it was scrap night...I got a major Christmas present done, and I wish I could share the details because I am SO excited about it!! But, it's for my Mom and she is a faithful reader. I'll have to tell you about it AFTER Christmas! :-)
*Other Friday highlight was the yummy deer chili that Peggy brought! YUM!!!

Saturday:
*Did a little Christmas shopping - stressed me out. I have no idea how I'm going to buy gifts this year!! I hate to charge them, but it's just going to have to be that...:-(
*Went to Copeland's for a cousin's birthday lunch (Happy Birthday Jared!). Got over Christmas shopping depression with an awesome dessert! ha!
*Went to see Bolt with my cousin's. Loved it!
*Finished my book. (review below - and I looked and I have averaged about a book a month this year - not bad at all!)

Sunday:
*Got to see Kevin for the first time in two weeks!! It was a good visit. We have had some issues come up in the past few weeks that we have needed to work on and today was our first day to get to talk rather than write. It was good for us, and our relationship just keeps growing! I can't explain the warmth and love I felt today from everyone. John 3:16 is an amazing place!!

Two Reviews

2008-11-22T20:13:00.002-06:00

Ok - I went to see Bolt, the new Disney movie with the dog that thinks it has super powers (voice is John Travolta) and "his person" is the voice of Miley Cyrus. The hamster, Rhino is hilarious too. Well, the cat was too. They all had their moments. I honestly laughed out loud several times. You gotta go see it. I promise if you don't laugh, you will at least smile! Thanks to Sandy and Kayce for inviting me to go with them!!

I also finished the book I've been reading this week - woo-hoo! I haven't gone back to see how many I read this year yet. The year is coming to a close and my New Year's Resolution was to read more throughout the year and not just on holiday breaks. I've done a little better, but it's hard when I am taking classes to read for fun! :-(

Ok - the book: The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

From the jacket: When US Marine Logan Thibault finds a photograph of a smiling young woman half-buried in the dirt during his third tour of duty in Iraq, his first instinct is to toss it aside. Instead, he brings it back to the base for someone to claim, but when no one does, he finds himself always carrying the photo in his pocket. Soon Thibault experiences a sudden streak of luck, winning poker games and even surviving deadly combat that kills two of his closest buddies. Only his best friend, Victor, seems to have an explantion for his good fortune: the photograph - his lucky charm.
Back home in Colorado, Thibault can't seem to get the photo - and the woman in it-out of his mind. Believing that she somehow holds the key to his destiny, he sets out on a journey across the country to find her, never expecting the strong but vulnerable woman he encounters in Hampton, North Carolina - Elizabeth, a divorced mother with a young son - to be the girl he's been waiting his whole life to meet.

What I thought: I was in the mood for somthing light and this was a good, light read. I admit it was a bit predictable and the ending wraps up all nice and neat. But, it was a feel good romantic story, so that's sort of why we read them. Right?

Two Words

2008-11-21T06:36:00.003-06:00

SCRAP NIGHT!!

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-19T15:18:00.002-06:00

From the infamous Reba/Kelly concert night of "Three Blondes and who has the tickets"....which one of us do you think forgot them? HA!

And....big news...got my final and my grade today for my master's class....Guess who got an A!!!! Whoo-hoo!

Anyone need a cat?

2008-11-17T18:50:00.003-06:00

I don't know why my mom is so mad at me. All I do is try to bring her prizes to show her I love her. I thought for sure she would see just how much when I brought her the big rat a few weeks ago, but she just screamed and spanked me so hard that I hid in the back room for the rest of the night. I have never seen someone react like that to a present! The nerve of that woman. Well, she's at it again. I tried to bring her a mouse tonight. I thought she liked rodents. I mean, she talks to that guinea pig in a voice much sweeter than she talks to me! So, I thought if I didn't kill the mouse and brought it to her as another pet, she'd be happy. Now, she's threatening to put a 'free cat to good home' ad in the paper! Jeez...I get no respect around here!

Girls Only Weekend!

2008-11-16T19:25:00.002-06:00

Sometimes all you need are your girlfriends! :-)

This weekend can be summed up with quality girl time only...
**Saturday, Peggy and I started our day with shopping at a big scrapbook sale. Does it get any better?? Well, maybe if you threw in a chocolate dessert! ha! I even bought my first Christmas gift, and it wasn't for myself!! (Pat on the back here!)
**Saturday night was the Reba and Kelly Clarkson concert with my work BFF's. I admit that I don't really listen to Reba or Kelly, but thought it would be a fun girls night (and it was). Let's just title Saturday night as "Three blondes and who has the tickets?" Enough said! LOL!
**Today, Becca & I got to listen to a friend preach at his new church. He was awesome!! I hope to follow him to this church, but my Sunday's for awhile will be at John 3:16. Oh, and as a bonus, turns out it is a small world and his new church is my Great-Aunt and Uncle's church!

Hope you all had a good weekend!

Thursday Thirteen

2008-11-13T18:50:00.007-06:00

**been awhile since a Thursday Thirteen ~ missed 'em? heehee! I've been a bit sentimental this week for some reason, so I thought I'd have a grateful post ~ just in time for Thanksgiving season too!

Thirteen Things I am Grateful For:

(in no certain order ~ I tried and it was too hard to rank them!)

1. Family ~ ALL my family...that includes Kevin's family too. I love them like my own already!

2. Fur Kids ~ you know how much my fur kids mean to me (even Simba! LOL! There is no cat like him and he gives me so many stories to share. Jax should get his own number. You know, he is even sleeping in the bed with me these days. Rotten doggie! Nala is just special in her own right. She is my fluffy princess.)

3. Friends ~ where would I be without them? I have some of the best friends a girl could ask for! I only hope I am as good a friend to them as they are to me!

4. A good warm, friendly, Christian workplace ~ I could not be surrounded by better people everyday. What a difference that makes!

5. My house ~ I love my house...it is a HOME. It is where I am most comfortable and love to be.

6. Gas prices ~ hello! I saw gas for $1.87 today!! I am super grateful for that!! It is like getting a pay raise where my gas guzzler is concerned.

7. I am also grateful that while it seems like I am always broke these days and scraping the bottom of the barrel, I can pay my bills. My bills are always paid and paid on time. In this crazy time, that is something to be grateful for!

8. I am grateful my aunt is hosting Thanksgiving this year! Whew! I have hosted for the past 3 or 4 years...it was fun, but I am ready for a break and to get to talk to people!!

9. Scrappin' nights ~ scrap nights with my peeps are priceless!

10. Mexican food ~ already had it twice this week and could eat it again tomorrow!

11. Bible Study ~ I am grateful that my co-worker and I were finally able to put a plan into action that we've talked about for a year (yay Jill!). This is my first Bible Study group, and I am super excited about it!

12. John 3:16 ministries ~ I am grateful that Bryan and Beverly have given their lives to helping others overcome addictions. Because of them and John 3:16, Kevin and I have been given a second chance. We have a fresh start, and I am getting a brand new man!

13. My Mom ~ My mom is more than a mom. She is my friend and my rock. I only want to make her proud! I am grateful that I can call her for anything at any time and she will listen and tell it to me straight (even if it isn't what I want to hear.) Her strength is an inspiration to me, and I don't know what I would ever do without her. I love you, Mom!

Wordless Wednesday: They grow up fast!

2008-11-12T20:44:00.003-06:00

Parents and Teachers...

2008-11-11T21:08:00.002-06:00

...check out this cool website a parent uses in my classroom.

www.spellingcity.com

Awesome for practicing spelling words - right?
Tasha, I bet Hannah would love it! :-)

Freedom!!

2008-11-10T18:42:00.003-06:00

I just have to SHOUT it out that I am FINISHED with my Master's class!!!! I have two months off from all the extra work that keeps me from doing things that I really want to do ~ like scrapbook and actually read NOVELS, not textbooks!!! Woo-hoo!!! My class is O.V.E.R.!! No more classes until January 17th!! Yee-haw!

Can I also just say how excited I am to only have 3 classes to go???? One in the Spring (my last Saturday class) and two during summer I. Cross your fingers I get registered in the summer classes before they fill up. I don't want to drag this out any longer. This time next year, I will be able to say I have my Master's and a big, fat raise!!!! Woo-hoo!

Now....which James Patterson book can I read first? :-)

Weekend Report

2008-11-09T18:33:00.003-06:00

I had a great weekend!! I studied Friday night for my final and felt really good about knowing my material, but I was most excited about surprising Kevin the next day!! John 3:16 was having an event for Veteran's and guests could attend. He wasn't expecting me because with my final, I didn't think I could make it. Well, I found a way (thank you Jared for house sitting!).

Saturday, I burned up the Arkansas highways for sure - first I drove to Conway to take my final. A two part final! yuck! Oh, and I had a presentation. I HATE presentations!! But, I made it through (mainly because it was a group presentation!). Then, we started our final. I am a bit nervous because I was the first one finished. And in hind sight, I wish I had double-checked it. But, I really just wanted to get on the road to my next destination! ha!

So...I burned up the roads for the next two hours heading from Conway to Batesville and was so early, I had to stop and shop in Searcy to kill time!! LOL!

Here is the drive going into John 3:16 ~ They added the flags for the veteran's. Anyway...Kevin was SO surprised to see me. It was fun getting to surprise him. The other guys helped me out when I got there because he was in the kitchen and they acted like they needed him to come out and help them with something. When he opened the door, there I was and he yelled and hugged me so big, my feet came up off the ground! ha! I don't think we stopped smiling all night!! It was an added bonus that I got to see him two days this weekend!!

(this picture is from today:) The Veteran's service was really, really good!! They did a fantastic job of honoring them. You would have to have a very cold heart not to be moved by that service!! After the service, I spent the night at my Mom's since it's only 45 minutes away. Then, I got to go back this morning!! woo-hoo! If you can't tell by the pictures - Kevin is at about 34 lbs. lighter these days! This is him with his parents today:

I could keep rambling on and on...but I'll stop!! Just keep the prayers coming and keep him in your thoughts.
Check out their website if you have time - they have made updates: www.john316ministry.com

Fall

2008-11-06T17:49:00.004-06:00

I love FALL! Fall is one of my favorite seasons (b/c I love Spring too!) Kevin and I both love fall though. I have really missed him more this week because the leaves are changing and we both take time to appreciate the beauty of it. We like to take road trips (like to the Buffalo) and hike, explore, and enjoy the scenery. We call ourselves old souls out for our Sunday drives. Sometimes, we don't even know where we are heading...we just head out and stop along the way at any flea market we happen to pass. I love it!

We also really, really like fall camping...the camp fires are so much better in fall! So...I've missed him a bit more as I enjoy the drives home and the gorgeous scenery. But, I know next fall, there will be plenty of road trips, so it's all good.

Fall also left me bringing in the last of our garden. Carrots anyone? I was so excited!! There were a BUNCH under all that green! I have one happy guinea pig!!This is what I love most about fall ~ look at the beauty just out the backdoor!
But, you know, what I hate about fall?? When those beautiful leaves fall, and I have to rake them up. So far, this year, the wind is treating me right and they are all blowing into my neighbors yard! LOL!

Wordless Wednesday: Expressions

2008-11-05T20:38:00.001-06:00

V.O.T.E.!!!

2008-11-04T15:59:00.003-06:00

There's still time....get out and VOTE if you haven't!! I was expecting long lines today and even took my notes to study for my final while I waited, but I was in and out with no trouble.

Not telling you who I voted for.....but isn't it time for a change?!?! :-)

NOW GO VOTE!!

Skipping School

2008-11-03T17:39:00.002-06:00

I stayed home from work today (shhhh!), but I had good reasons!! Honest! I needed to organize all my notes and make a study guide and start studying for my final on Saturday. I also had a doctor's appointment at 3...technically still could've gone to work if that were ALL I had on my plate today! :-)

The good news from today is that my advisor told me I needed one less class than I thought I did to graduate. So, after Saturday, I only have 3 to go. The bad news - only one of the ones I need is offered this summer! Bummer! So, it will still be next school year before my master's is finished! But, the end is SOOO close!

My doctor's appointment today made me feel really old. How does time fly so fast? How did I get to the age that the doctor tells me my chances of ever having a child are going to start dropping more and more each year now...that my chances of having a baby with downs start going up...and I need to start thinking about mammograms??? REALLY? When did I get old? Apparently at around age 35...hmmmm...Needless to say, I headed straight to Krispy Kreme after my appointment. Nothing like a hot donut and some Dr. Pepper to cheer me up! Well, that and a panicked phone to my BFF, Michelle that my time is running out, and I may never be a Mom. Thanks Michelle for calming right down!!! I need to send you a counseling fee! LOL!

Today's Visit

2008-11-02T17:34:00.002-06:00

Every time I see Kevin, he has grown spiritually more than the week before. And physically, has lost more weight (30 lbs. and counting...). He also has that twinkle back in his eye that I love so much. I didn't take any pictures today. We stupidly decided it would be cool to go out on the pond in the canoe. It was a bit windy - we really didn't realize it until we were out on the water. The water kept taking taking up to this far corner that looked like snake territory to me if I've ever seen it. Kevin was working like a dog to keep up out of that area. Let's just sum it by saying - it looks romantic in the movies, but not so much in real life! ha! We are both clumsy, so as Kevin would say I was "as nervous as a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs!" I just knew we were going to tip over in that nasty water! ha! But, we didn't! :-)

Anyway - we had a great visit, but it goes by WAY too fast!! Next week, his parents get to come too. I look forward to the chocolate dessert Kevin's Mom is making...yum!!!

It's all good!

2008-10-30T21:06:00.002-05:00

How 'bout the sharing of some good news???!!!

First, I got not one, but TWO letters from Kevin today! And, one was a love letter!! Gush - Gush! I haven't gotten one of those in years!! I'll give one line from it, but the rest is mine ~ he said, "You brighten my life, my spirits, my emotions." Yep, it was a good letter! I've read it three times already and cried (happy tears) twice! :-)
My principal observed me earlier this week. Cross that off the list! Whew ~ it's over! I have taught 11 years now and still hate observations. But, I couldn't have paid my kids to be any better! Wow! They were awesome, and I didn't even bribe them! ha! AND, my principal left a sweet note on my desk. She told me I was a doll! It is my week for nice letters!!
Lastly, I have two good friends who have decided to start their own blogs. Go show them some love if you get a chance. Becca at Happily Ever After is Right Now... (Isn't that a cute blog name?), and Jill at All About Beckett (I couldn't convince her to scrapbook, but I may have her blogging! ha)

Have a great weekend!! I'll update on Sunday after I see Kevin!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-29T19:49:00.002-05:00

Whose couch is this anyway??

**ignore the mess! :-)

Community service!

2008-10-28T19:39:00.003-05:00

One way to get your yard mowed when you are too broke to hire anyone is good, old community service hours! My teenage cousin needed 2 hours of community service for his honor society. I love it! We didn't have to do that when I was in high school though! :-) So, I got 2 hours of free labor. He mowed, edged, weedeated (keep in mind the backyard hadn't been weedeated in 2 months! ha!). Then, he even graded some papers! Woo-hoo! Thanks Tanner! (who has NO idea I snapped this picture through the glass door ~ I figured he'd kill me for taking pictures of him while he's working so hard! ha!)

And Thanks Sandy for loaning me your kiddo!

Kevin Update

2008-10-26T19:32:00.003-05:00

I think we can all take a page from Fred's book, the resident dog at John 3:16. Just take it easy...no worries!

Seriously, I have cried over the local news around here. I could blog about it, but it's on every one's mind around Arkansas. I think we are all trying to make sense out of something so senseless...

So instead, I will focus on today and the continuous positive progress of Mr. Kevin!

He was able to move into one of the cabins this week. We sat outside in the camping chairs today and chilled ... like the old souls we are! ha! He has lost even MORE weight and just looks better and better every time I see him. I never doubted this was the right thing, but I wondered if he would take FULL advantage of the opportunity given to him to start his life over. He is using his time wisely and becoming more of the man that God wants him to be. That is all we can ask for! Thank you SO much to all of you that are sending cards and care packages. He loves them and proudly shows me all his stuff each Sunday with a big grin on his face. His recovery wouldn't be possible without all of your support and continued prayers!

BIG HUGS TO ALL OF YOU!!

T.G.I.F.

2008-10-24T06:26:00.003-05:00

Happy it's Friday for several reasons:

**I have my last conference!! Woo-hoo! (even if it is with hip dad)
**It's scrap night! YIPPEE!!! Good food, good company, and scrappin'!!
**After tomorrow, I only have one, yes ONE, class left for this Master's class I am taking. Then, I get my Saturday's back for awhile! Maybe my yard will get mowed...ha!
**Only two days until I get to see Kevin! :-)

Happy Friday!

Yada-Yada

2008-10-22T19:34:00.005-05:00

Here's what is going on around LoriLand:

What did Simba do this week??? Well, you know he did something because he's always in trouble!! This, in my opinion, may be his worst one yet. He brought in a HUGE rat. Yep, you read that correctly. AND, he dropped it in the middle of the living room floor. It wasn't dead. There was A LOT of screaming!! Simba got a spanking so hard that it hurt my hand! ha! And, my neighbor had to come help me get the rat out from under the entertainment center...the big, heavy entertainment center!! Doggie doors are great, unless you have a hunting cat!!!
Tomorrow we have a field trip at school. I love them, and I hate them. I worry about loosing a kid every time! I count them constantly! ha! We are suppose to have a picnic lunch after, so I hope it doesn't rain....
It's also red ribbon week at school or Drug Free Week. Here is our bulletin board...I visualized it cuter than it turned out, but it will do! :-) They are suppose to be ghosts...can you tell they are ghosts? You won't hurt my feelings if you can't tell!
In the news around here (and nationally), one of the local news anchors was brutally attacked in her home earlier in the week. It has just weighed on my mind what this girl has had to endure. She is still in critical condition. When you say your prayers, say a prayer for her and her family. They don't know yet if it was random or if she was targeted because of being on tv, but it has reminded me to be on higher alert and aware of my surroundings. Let's just say my pistol is A LOT closer to me and easier to reach. Don't even think about pulling a prank on me b/c you may get shot!
Oh, that parent conference with "nice hips" dad isn't until Friday...for all of you inquiring minds! I saved the best (or most awkward) for last! LOL!
Lastly, SCRAP NIGHT is Friday night!! Woo-hoo!!!!