Walk A Mile

My Fight My Resolutions...

2012-01-28T08:28:00.000-06:00

When I made my 2012 Resolutions I divided them into 3 categories...and I left them vague...

They were: physical, emotional and mental... My fight continues...

Physical: I continue to work out. Some days it is automatic and others not so much...I am really good at spending the day...talking myself out of it... This week I worked out 3 of 6 days (I may go today).. But only one at the gym... running is my passion but being on a treadmill is dreadful... actually any machine for me is dreadful...I feel awkward. I am also fighting what my daughter(s) call the old school way of being...the dang scale...it isn't moving... except sometimes higher... it really bums me out... They tell me that that is old school way of being healthy... but but but... My clothes are feeling better...less constrictive...and the distance around my bottom and belly appear to be a bit smaller... So...I must continue... I gotta start eating more protein..less sugary stuff...and less snacking in general...

Emotional: Yes I am emotional...whenever I see love displayed I cry...can't help it... My life in general has been great so far this year..We all seem to be on track...Bo is healing and the girls are thriving... So... what to do what to do...it seems that my value on my Faith..is lacking... I am not thriving and at times I feel empty. Some changes happen over the course of the school year..that is how I look at time.. September is my pseudo New Year... and I feel the loss of a faith community... I have lost the mojo...so to speak. I have reached out to some key people and I hope and pray that I can find away to bring it back... I will continue to be devotional..to pray for my friends... to serve others...but I need more... Bring. It. On

Mental: Ahhh Spanish class how I love thee... eekkk I have homework to complete..today... It is actually going well.. It is fun to be a no face in class...to sit and listen and participate...I gotta work on pronunciation... I am also reading some good books... and that is inspiring all in itself...and work... well that keeps my going mentally...or makes me mental..

I am adding on a new area...CREATIVE... I think in order to be well rounded I need to release some creative juices... I have something planned..but am not going to spill quite yet.. I am the queen of not following through.. I am hopeful that I will get started on this venture today...

January is almost over.. I feel good...full of life and love.. Life is Good and God is great!

My prayer list

Sandy... my blog friend...for strength and peace

Carter... my coworker.. struggling with a new normal

Janice...for peace

New (Second) Blog

2012-01-25T14:33:00.000-06:00

I started a new blog...This blog will be my daily whatever topic type of blog...

That Was Then ---This is Now.... is kinda sorta a story...it may be fiction...it may be non-fiction...those that know me will be able to tell...If you would like to follow along...

http://mypastmynow-beth.blogspot.com/

Oh I love comments!

Staying True

2012-01-24T19:37:00.000-06:00

I am staying true to my goals for 2012...

Spanish class is going good...not great...but I am learning!

I have continued to work out... I started a new home workout that is sort of old fashion calasthenics... crunches, jumping jacks, squats etc... It went fine last night...but today oh boy I am sore!

I am still going to Inver...mostly to run on the treadmill...it has been going pretty good.. it is hard to discern if I am progressing or not...

I found a cute way to visualize pounds lost... you put one marble per pound you want to lose in one jar and then when you lose a pound you transfer it over to another jar.. I think that would be a fun way to see it happen...

So...that is about it... feeling good feeling accomplished... loving life!

Here is where...

2012-01-19T16:08:00.000-06:00

Here is where I get to spend the next 4 hours... 13 in all...

My lovely classroom.

Parent Teacher Conferences....so much fun!

Say what?

2012-01-18T20:48:00.000-06:00

Oh today was just one of those days...you know...when you get up super early and am still awake many many hour later...wondering why?

Today started out early...well...because the day before was filled to the brim and I was exhausted so I went to bed early...leaving a report, lesson plans and grades unfinished...saying nothing about the spanish class work undone...

So I got up way too early to even mention the time..turned on the 'puter and got busy... by the time I usually get up I was done with most all the undone stuff...and was ready to get on with the day... shower, lunch making, bag packing, commute and donut buying..

Well then it was time to start my work day.. printing to do, report to finish up, oh man...here they come..

So the students walk in...tardy most of them...what a great way to get my skin burning...oh and no writing utensils...come on...you high schoolers....How can you come to math class without a pencil? Seriously?

Well I made it thru 1st hour...and they all left in one piece..then came 2nd hour... one , two and three ended leaving my room ...which means more paperwork... Then to find out some "bad" news...that will again change the dynamics..more attitude...

Third hour...okay...lunch..prep... got my second wind...phewwww...then onto dealing with kids that just couldn't handle being in class... one two three and four...

Sixth...mellow as jello...love those kids...and will miss them...

Well what do you know...time to start the second half of my day...being a mom, wife and student...

time for the ride home...taking a detour to drop dd's friend off at home...then home to make some dinner, time to study for my Spanish class...watch the news...pry my eyes open to stay awake during my life session of class...

And now I sit here giggling over silly sit-coms...thinking about why I am not sleeping...and about tomorrows super long day ...

work....thirteen hours...parent teacher conferences...oh I need to sleep...

How was your day?

Wednesday... Goals ...

2012-01-11T05:51:00.000-06:00

HA! I am still at it! Week 2 of trying to regain a healthier lifestyle...

Today I start my Spanish class...it is all online...I know..scary for me! But I have all the required stuff and my computer is all set...I have my first session this evening!

I have continued to Inver Hills fitness center every other day...and on the weekends I have been out walking...that part has been easy..the walking in this gorgeous MN weather... I haven't really noticed any body changes yet.. I really need to hone into my snacking...it does me in! But I am trying!

I think those are my two biggest ta dahs...

Anyone else still at it?

Blessed already...

2012-01-09T09:33:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I woke up to a headache and stuffy nose... Although I went to bed no later than usual my body was achy tired. I got up to do my thing and immediately crawled back into bed...I was tired... so I laid there all day..literally... I read the paper, played on the computer and then tuned into Dance Moms on Lifetime...it was the marathon... I think I watched all of them...don't judge...

Around 5 or so I was tagged on the photo above on Facebook! Isn't it delightful? I love it! Thanks to my niece Becky for posting it!

These girls are why my life has been blessed...oh don't get me wrong...we have our ups and downs...and they have their issues with each other...but at the end of day...we are blessed inside and out!

Friday Fave Five!

2012-01-06T08:48:00.001-06:00

Today I am joining in with Suzanne's weekly Friday's Fave Five. Suzanne's blog is called Living To Tell The Story... Come join in the fun!

1. On New Years Eve Day I posted this.... It is a list of my goals for the new year. It is fave because I have actually been making progress toward my goals. Did you make any goals for 2012?

2. My daughter was home visiting from her home in the BIG city in Eastern US... It was nice to have her home. We are both refreshed and it helped to start our new year with a happy heart.

3. Although our break from school and teaching was short in comparison to many other places...we are all glad to be back at our routine...we are creatures of routine... So life is good with regular dinner times, good meals, homework and TV shows starting a new!

4. One of my resolutions was to...of course...work out or increase my excersising...and I have and I feel good. We have a local Community College that has a pretty decent fitness center. So I have been running on the treadmill and using some nautilus type machines.

5. I signed up for and will start next week...a Spanish class at the above mentioned Community College. My dh works there so we get some "free" credits! This class is totally online which makes me a bit nervous. I have to go get my book and some other "things" and then be ready to start on Wednesday! I am actually anxiously excited! Wish me luck!

So there you have my first week in January's favorite things...

So far so good...

2012-01-05T13:04:00.005-06:00

Gotta say that I am kinda impressed with myself! I have been making a concerted effort to hold up my goals for 2012..and YES I am aware it is only Jan 4... but here is what I have been doing so far...

1. Tuesday I went to Inver Hills and worked out...and not just a pansy workout... I really busted my butt... I ran and lifted weights...

2. Since Monday we have made dinner here at home...good healthy meals...not necessarily low calorie..but enough to have leftovers the next for lunch...cutting down on yucky sandwiches etc

3. I also started reading an ebook titled: One Bite at a Time: 52 Projects for Making Life Simpler. It has many useful tips and suggestions...about meal planning, eco living, just everything.

4. I signed up and am anxious about my Spanish class. I hope it goes well... I am anxious trying to figure out the online classroom etc... we shall see!

So I am impressed that I am making progress...especially since I waited til the 3rd to really get started... How are your goals fairing?

Tale of the trunk....

2012-01-04T18:10:00.000-06:00

1978 --->Many years ago I was gifted the trunk in the photo. My mother gave it to me as a graduation gift. I immediately fell in love with it. To me it signified moving on in my life. Packing up...going on a trip or moving to another city or state. Upon graduation my grand plans were to attend Winona State University...and I did just that... 4 glorious years of learning and growing...spreading my wings. This trunk was packed full of all (and literally) my worldly possessions. I really didn't have much...so I am thinking it was mostly packed with sheets and blankets...We packed into the car and off we went... 4 years later it returned with me...and 4 carloads of other stuff..

Fast forward to 2003... after serving many different capacities...in storage, as an end table...etc etc... I gave the trunk to Lindsay as graduation gift... just like I received it from my mother. Lindsay took it in her care to school...U of MN...and back again. She stored many treasures in THAT trunk...not limited it to a gazillion Teen Vogues..shoes... important school stuff This past week she stated she wanted to take it back home with her...to NYC... We eventually hauled it out of the closet and measured it... We found it to meet the $25 charge for a piece of luggage. She loaded it up with other stuff...and we hauled it to the airport...and off it went... It is my hope and dream that she will give it either to her first baby upon graduation... or her first daughter! Inside the trunk it is inscribed with its path that it has taken... It will be fun to see where it ends up!

New Year New Ideas

2011-12-31T15:19:00.001-06:00

It is that time of year...the time to reflect and to determine how you want the new year to proceed. I know people would rather curl up and ignore when they are asked about their goals for the new year but I am one that thrives on them. I like to make plans... to keep myself focused. I don't like to wile away my time. I like the feeling of being productive.

I know my headline says Get Fit...but before you choke on the idea of heading to the gym, or out on the track...take a moment to think about the areas that you can get fit in...

1. physically

2. emotionally

3. mentally

I am determined to make a go at each area. I have some ideas already in motion and some thoughts that are just that thoughts.

2011 was not my year. When I say that I hope it doesn't sound selfish, but I spent most of the year serving others. Okay, let me step back on that statement. I love and thrive on serving others. It is who I am...what I am meaning is along the way I lost site of who I am... I had to deal with some tough stuff but it is in the past and I am ready to make a difference in my life...

Physically

In 2011 I started my adventure of becoming a runner. I actually followed thru and ran some 5ks. I love it. But along the way due to some emotional issues I also put on a lot of weight. You see I am an emotional eater. So...in 2012 I plan to continue running and by that I mean really run...none of this wogging and rugging stuff... I want to shed the pounds and pick up my knees and run... In motion already is some new eating habits...some recipes and cookbooks earmarked, plans for some gym activity and out side running

Emotionally

As I have stated I am an emotional person. My emotions run from being loving and kind to being horrid and hateful. I really don't think either really reflects who I am. I need to take time for myself. To strengthen my backbone and my resolve to not let people take advantage and to gain respect for myself. In motion already is my faith...I have a strong faith community and I am working on making it even better...I have been searching out some good devotions... and am working on some other ideas.

Mentally

I think mental stability and emotional stability can go hand in hand...but for me it is also linked to my desire to be a life long learner. I love the idea of a classroom (go figure) and the idea of learning new things. I don't ever want to become stale. I don't ever want to not be able to access the world. In order to achieve this I have to learn to follow through. (see I am always wanting to learn) In motion... and I am really excited about this... I am taking a Spanish class at Inver Hills CC. Laura and I are doing it together. BONUS: if we are students at the college we get to use the GYM for free...see Physical! Woot.

These are the main things I am willingly going to work on for 2012. I think they are all doable and don't feel like I am jumping in over my head. For all you naysayers I don't think it is right that you don't set goals. There I said it! I get ripped on for setting goals...lol

Other things happening in 2012

a trip to NYC for July
Rosebud
New dining room table and chairs
Bo's 60th Birthday and Lydia's Golden Birthday

It sounds like a grand year... I am excited to see it unfold...

Happy New Year!

Tale of the Christmas Trees

2011-12-20T13:10:00.046-06:00

<---1984 When Bo and I got married we were poor. We both worked but we were still poor. So when Christmas rolled around we were sad that we weren't going to be able to buy a tree for Christmas. Then we remember about a money jar that we used to save our change... I think it was Bo's doing...all the good ideas are his! So we counted the change and it was exactly how much we needed...plus or minus some change... Ever since we have been saving our change and every year as the cost of trees go up and eating out goes up...we seem to have just enough saved up!

We always have cut down our tree... In the beginning we went to Afton Tree Farm in Hastings, MN...that has since closed and now we got to Hampton Hills Tree Farm.

In 1985 Lindsay was born (not sure where that pic went) and here she is in 1986 with mom and dad. In the early years I also had my youngest sister with us. She was such a great baby sister...and so helpful!Well as our family grew...Laura was born in 1988...I am thinking we must have not taken the babies out to get trees until they were at least one?? Not sure... I am love our sense of styles in outerwear! Not!

Laura was born in 1988. I am thinking we must not have taken the babies out tree hunting until they were at least one... I also love our sense of outerwear styles. Check out the hair in 1990 photo.

Miss Lydia was born in August of 1998. She was our most anticpated baby ever! The poor thing was dragged everywhere... I mean she was at the State Fair twice at the age of 2 weeks...So...of course she went out tree hunting. It doesn't appear that the weather was too cold @@... Our Tree adventures continued on...

Here is Lydia in Kindergarten... I think the year is wrong on the photo...It must be 2003. By the time Lydia was in school the tree cutting came down to Bo, me and Lydia. The older girls were busy. Lindsay started college in 2003 and Laura was probably doing something with basketball. Here are Lydia in 2008. Lydia has taken on the role of the tree dragger. She is quite mighty. She has even weilded the saw and this year she ran with the tree. Sadly, Bo has told us that he will no longer be cutting down the trees. I don't think with his new hip that he will even be able to if he wanted. I know that Laura will help for as long as we need her too! We love our tradition of saving coins and fetching the most perfect trees!

And here it is ...Christmas 2011... 27 years plus of searching

Wishes for my Daughters

2011-12-18T20:51:00.001-06:00

You are my heart and soul

I love you dearly

My Christmas

Wish

For

You

I wish for your peace, love, contentment in your relationships

My desire for your in 2012

That you continue to discover all that the world has to offer

I love you deeply...My heart aches when you ache...My heart soars when your heart soars...

Peace-Love-Joy

Three Word Wednesday

2011-12-14T12:11:00.000-06:00

Three Word Wednesday

How about spreading a little Christmas cheer... give it to me in 3 words...

Need to Shop! 

Lot of issues

2011-12-13T05:28:00.000-06:00

This school year has been difficult. Not only do I have an abnormal amount of paper work to complete, but that come March I am virtually done with that part...but the students that I inherited this year and some that I had last year are really struggling...some with day to day issues and some with "what is my future going to be?" issues.

Yesterday I learned some bad news about one of my former students. It absolutely broke my heart. I don't even know how to deal with it or if I have a place in this persons world... I am sure I do...I am just uncertain as what to do...praying for sure!

Other issues I am having can not be documented here... they have to stay in my mind and in my files at work. I wish I had more time each day...time that was uncomplicated...time to help heal some wounds...time to reflect..but alas that won't happen anytime soon...

I do love my job... but am struggling to make the ends meet.

If I were to write A Christmas Letter...

2011-12-09T20:33:00.000-06:00

If I were to write A Christmas Letter this is what I would write:

Merry Christmas
The Johnson Family thankful and grateful for the year 2011. We are all achieving and growing on different levels.

January found us with the return of Laura. Right away after Christmas she began student teaching. She fulfilled this part of her college experience in an elementary school in Woodbury. She thrived. Every day she would come home excited.

February was a month of many changes. We were blessed on many levels. We shed tears of great sadness and smiles of great joy.

In April I was blessed with a working trip to NYC! What a grand time. Going to NYC is extra special for me because Lindsay lives there. We had fun together and showing some sites to co-workers. Two days into my trip Bo joined us..and then I left and he stayed with Lindsay for a few more days.   They attended a Yankee/Twins game and did some "dad" site seeing.

In May Laura graduated with her teaching degree from my alma mater WSU...couldn't be prouder. Lydia danced in her 9 dance recital and we upheld our tradition of going to Lake Rebecca for Memorial Day

June equals summer to us and is always a relief. As a teacher I get some relaxation and down time. The weekend school got out we went up North to Land of the Loon(ies) in Virginia and then we were in full swing of summer. Then Lydia headed off to tennis camp. She went with her long time friend Meg and they seemed to thrive.    In July we quietly celebrated the 4th of July... And then the following week...Laura, Lydia and I headed off with 3 others from our church to Rosebud Indian Reservation. I loved being there with my girls...and watch them become wrapped in passion for these delightful group of people. When we returned from our Mission Trip I received a heart breaking email from my dear friend Jill Simon..I was saddened and devastated to find out that her dear husband Bruce had the dreaded C word and that he was only given months to live... I was so heartbroken...

Inbetween all the normal summer activities Lydia volunteered for the SSP Tennis program. She coached a couple groups of youth and worked hard to become a member of the SSP tennis team

In the begining of August Lydia was thrust into Tennis captains practice and then tryouts..She was thrilled that she and her friend Meg made the Junior Varsity team. Such a thrill

The rest of summer found us relaxing.. visiting.. and then preparing ourselves for going back to work and school. Laura was a little sad that she hadn't landed a teaching job..bummed that with all the applying she didn't get an interview...until the virtual end of the summer... She did end up with 2 interviews...which brought about one long term sub job in Rogers and then a break, another two interviews and two offers of long term subbing....she was so blessed

On August 22nd I received the dreaded phone call that Bruce Simon died. I was sad beyond understanding..such a hard hard day.. It sort of put us on hold..nothing seemed to matter... We all loved Bruce...he was a wonderful human being and I know he is looking down upon us...

The next week Bo was scheduled for hip replacement surgery...but during the pre-op we were made aware of a heart issue...which scared us...he spent several days in the hospital trying to get it under control...he had a cardio version that brought a little relief... he was discharged with a vague plan..totally changed his diet,increased his excersise...lost lots of weight..and was still having issues...

he went back into the hospital...St Joes...was given a few days of new medicine and another cardio version...and returned home in awesome health...

September and October were crazy busy with tennis and school starting...In later October we went to Duluth for a few days of rest and relaxation... AND we also cheered on SSP Packers in football..... .all the way to the State tournament.. it was so much fun! We were then solidly into November and Thanksgiving..we had a lot to celebrate and to be thankful for

And now it is December...and I am reflecting on how blessed my family is...how proud I am of all of us...how much we have achieved... how much we have grown... Life is Good... God Bless and Happy New Year...

Crazy Days

2011-12-07T21:19:00.000-06:00

Why is it that the holiday season takes me by surprise every time?

Gosh I have been busy...

And then I decide (or it has been made evident) that because NO clothes fit me anymore... I started to Shred again... I am doing the 30 Day Shred...

And lest I forget... I love me some Christmas cookies... I have made a bajillion...and eaten half of them..(see above)

Hoping to get back into a blogging pattern..soon..

Grade A Design

2011-12-03T09:09:00.001-06:00

A few months ago I played a guessing game with a past classmate of my daughter's. This classmate was overdue with her 2nd baby and was trying to pass the time...I assume. This classmate, Amanda, is also the owner of a graphic arts business, Grade A Design. So prize she was offering was something she would design.

Well guess who with all her wit and ESP won the contest?

ME!

Yesterday a cute box arrived in the mail. Without looking at the return address I opened the box and pulled out the contents...

What a timely awesome gift...thank you Amanda...

Just perfect...

2011-11-21T16:00:00.001-06:00

Growing up I had perfect vision...no problems. I could see for what seemed like miles...the darkness was not an issue...I guess I sort of took it for granted because about 4 years ago I stopped being able to see perfectly...

I went to the eye doctor....had complete eye exam... hmmm nothing wrong... your eyes are fine... perhaps just use the cheater glasses...you know.. readers... with numbers like 125, 150...etc...

Eh...don't get me wrong... they do work..when I can find them...when I haven't broken them...

Here is where it turns to sadness... I know that my changing eye ability is "just" because I am getting older...I think it was my first sense or hint of my body pullling tricks on me... telling me it is tired or wearing out...

I use to watch people have to hold out their books or papers with out stretched arms...blinking mercifully and think geez what is wrong with that person...I get it now.. and it makes me sad... I want to keep being able to read without hunting for my glasses...

Please don't laugh...just accept.. it hurts more inside than you can imagine!

Protesting...

2011-11-20T12:00:00.002-06:00

I am a child of the 60's but grew up in the 70's...My informative years were all about the Vietnam War... while babysitting I would make myself worried sick ...I the kids I was watching would be tucked into bed and I would find myself watching the live coverage of the war on TV. Did you know it was the first big violent event that had live coverage? I was captivated... reality TV at its best...

I also was captivated by all the protesting and the sit ins here in the US of A... I was always wishing I was old enough to join them... but eh I wasn't old enough... I knew what was going on...but just young enough to not be taken seriously...

Today I watched a You Tube posted on Facebook by several different people... it was the one about the protested at UC Davis being peppered sprayed...what the heck.. I found myself being enraged. Disgusted...angry....and sad... What were those police thinking?

Unfortunately I feel I am too old to go out and join the protest. I am the middle class...I do work hard... I do have a job...but there are so many in the younger generation that don't have viable careers...something needs to change... We need to be the change... My prayers are for the protesters...my hopes are that they can set an agenda... join together across a America and kick some Wall Street butt...I don't want anyone to be hurt... but I don't want things to same the same... something needs to change...

What happen to the American dream? The dream of freedom and goodwill toward others?

Something on Saturday

2011-11-19T19:30:00.000-06:00

This morning I was at the grocer...digging through the freezer box...looking for that just right sized Tom Turkey... I hemmed and hawed... and struggled deciding what size would be just right... and I came up with one...finally...

I proceeded to finish my shopping. The check out lines were few and long... so I got in line...started to unload my stuff...and noticed the people behind me... excuse my description...I mean no disrespect...

but they were old and wrinkled.... I told them they could unload and that I was waiting for the the divider...the gentleman smiled and said "oh it looks like you are getting ready for turkey day" And then said "I can't believe it..." I said "believe what?" He replied "that it is happening again...the holidays"

We continued chatting and it turns out that this 82 yr old man was with his 86 yr old sister..helping her shop... This made me smile...I had told him that I was impressed that he was out and about doing errands...he wasn't so optimistic...actually sort of bothered...but with a smile...he had a sweet smile...

The reason I am telling about this is because I have been inwardly been exasperated with myself about being in my 50's... a mere youngster the 82 yr old reminded me....

Here is what I know... enough being unsure of myself...time to reinvent myself...time to pull up the depends..umm...big girl panties and deal with life... enough dragging my feet...time to become ME...

I do have some ideas...some goals...time to go big or to go home... So...

I know I want to stay current with the world...
I know I need to keep reading for pleasure...
I know I need to get fit...
I know I want to get back out into nature...
I know I want to enhance my faith...

So with these things I think I have a future to embrace... You are welcome to come a long for the ride...maybe we can do it together.... Life is good.

Pile on the Miles Week 2

2011-11-06T20:03:00.000-06:00

Well we are into week 2 of Pile on the Miles...my PEOPLE are awesome...they inspire me so much...my sister Becky ran 6 miles in under an hour...what the heck...and then there is my sister Brenda who this summer and fall did the couch to 5k...and is now completing a 5k 3 times a week...I feel like a slug compared to them... I actually did over 6 miles...

We all got together today to take a few pictures for the record! It was fun to be together for the hour... we did lots of catching up and yakkity yak...

My goal for this week is to do at least 2 full 5ks... For me it means getting up early early and that is hard to do...and then get home and get ready for work...We shall see...

Made in America!!

2011-11-03T13:14:00.001-05:00

The more I read about Made in America the more determined I am to change my way of purchasing items. To be honest when America was seemingly prospering (I don't really think we were...) I didn't think twice about were the items I purchased came from... but the more I see the Middle Class disappearing...ME!! the more I am determined to make a change and hopefully drag some of you along... Please read below and know that I mean no disrespect to other countries...but I want us to start RESPECTING US more....

Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition

As the holidays approach, the giant factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Oh.... Yes there is!

It is time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box?
Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?
Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.

Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.

Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking down the Benjamins on a out of country-made flat-screen TV? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.

There are a gazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.

My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.

Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Give the kids gift certificates to the movies, the local laser tag facility, the roller rink, fast food joints, THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX!
Honestly people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand out of country lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that other countries can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US (We the People), encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we could not imagine.

Some places I will be shopping at...

Sixth Chamber Used Books

Candyland

Guthrie Theatre

There are many more places and ideas out there...feel free to comment and share some ideas with me!

P I L E on the M I L E S

2011-11-02T10:21:00.000-05:00

Run Turkey Run!

Yesterday was the offical start of the Thayer Girls Pile on the Miles! (I cheated and started on 10-31-11) The challenge goes soemthing like this... Run...as many miles as you can from November 1 to November 24th. The idea is to run more miles than the pounds of food you eat...lol...We are adding another element by keeping track of time also...The reason is that we all are beginner runners and some are more atheletic than others. An example certain ones of us can run a way faster 5k than the others...so they might be able to run more miles but others run for longer time...Anyway... There are over 600 people participating in this challenge...and we will all be winners... You can check out all the specifics here...

So far in two days I have run 4 miles...not too shabby... I plan on getting in at least 5 miles a week...

Friday Fave Five

2011-10-28T09:36:00.000-05:00

Susanne at Living to Tell the Story hosts a meme that you get to talk about your favorites from the week...it is awesome and uplifting...give it a try...

1. Last week Thurs-Saturday we went "up" North, Minnesota to Duluth...We had a blast. It was nice to get away with family...and see parts of Minnesota that I forget about... We went to Gooseberry Falls and Splitrock which are in Two Harbors... FUN!

2. I finally finished a good book...The Red Tent...I enjoyed it and it was one of my first finishes in a long time.

3. Ohh... Upon return from our trip I was in for a great surprise...We had ordered a new stove/oven...and it was suppose to come on Monday...but it came on Friday...new vent hood too...so very happy and it is awesome and fun to cook again!

4. Our Girls Soccer Team is in the State Tournament. (this is the school I teach at too...)

5. Ha! I am loving the fact that I can synch all my calendars...I feel more organized...work and home all on my Ipad...sweetness!!

Fall Break Trip...Duluth

2011-10-23T08:32:00.000-05:00

We started out early on Thursday morning. Our first destination was Splitrock Lighthouse in Two Harbors, MN...

Lydia and Laura near the lighthouse...beautiful sunshine and the last of the fall foliage

The crashing waves on Lake Superior were so awesome...

Our next stop was Gooseberry Falls State Park. MN is blessed with many gorgeous state parks..

The Falls were awesome... I want to go back in the summer to see how different they are..

Sunrise on Friday..out our hotel window!

Laura and Lydia enjoying the Alpine Coaster at Spirit Mountain...

Bike riding at Canal Park... check out the old time bikes...

Me and Lyd

Those ships are truly magnificent. We were in awe and were lucky to watch them level the canal!

We had a great trip and can't wait to go back!

House Cleaning

2011-10-17T20:24:00.000-05:00

I have a question...

Is there a way to block some readers without making it private etc? I have had to clean house mentally and just need some people off my radar....

The people involved know they are being blipped off...so don't panic all you that comment and read!

Media Alert

2011-10-10T20:36:00.000-05:00

In the past year(s) two causes have pulled at my heart strings.

In my book group thru church we read the book Half the Sky. It tackles woman issues in war torn countries... human trafficking, rape and abuse. It was a hard book to come to terms with...it broke my heart but also infuriated me. In the back of the book there were pages among pages of resources and ways we can contribute and help. One such organization was Women for Women International

It is an organization that supports women that have been down trodden due to abuse by their husbands or other males in their lives. The women are given the opportunity to take year long classes to learn about self worth, self esteem and learn a trade to support herself.

Starting tomorrow night (Oct 11) on PBS they are airing a 5 part series titled Woman, War and Peace
It looks to be a very promising and enlightening program. I am looking forward to this series and perhaps learning how I can increase my service to my sisters.

Another issue that is near and dear to my heart is the Lakota Nation in South Dakota. This tribe encompasses several Reservations near Mount Rushmore...oh I know saying that will make it sound familiar to all of you...

About 5 years ago my church presented an opportunity to go on a mission trip to Rosebud Reservation through Tree of Life Relief Agency. I signed up and I went, and went again, again and once again. I am signed up to go again the summer of '12. The Lakota Indian are a spirit filled loving people. They have captured my heart...and my passion.

On Friday (October 14th) Diane Sawyer is continuing her series of Hidden Children... This time she has spent a year interviewing and learning about The Children of the Plains...the Lakota Children. Last night as I was drifting off to sleep the advertisement came on and I became excited... I want you all to learn about these endearing children...BUT most of all I want you all to reach out to these people... to do what you can...They are real people..they lived here before us... check out the video

I challenge each and everyone of you to watch these shows and then do something...listen to the tug of your heart...

Some pictures of our Mission Trip... this is just an example of the hard work we accomplished in our week. But just imagine your bathroom...


After....


Before.....

Imagine

2011-10-08T18:13:00.000-05:00

Today I ran a 5k... I was awesome...(bare with me) I did a personal best.. 43:18...but better than this is the reason why I ran this 5K....

Many years ago I started to go to First Methodist in South Saint Paul...there I met a woman and her family that to this day continue to make a change in my life... I am speaking of my dear friend Cindy Yanchury...her husband Bob and daughter Amanda...(also Meagan and Dan) For many years our daughters hung out together...but then as life takes us...they took different paths...but all our paths reconnected today...

I am a Methodist. We Methodist like to make change in the world. This year a global mission was initiated... I know I don't have all the details...I am not good with the hierarchy of things...but...The Methodist Church launched Imagine NO Malaria. In the 50's the United States was able to eliminate malaria from this country...but at the same time Africa was left behind. Mosquitoes inflicted with malaria attack at night.. and they attack mostly little kids...90% of the deaths are those that are 5 and under...single handedly destroying families the potential future of Africa... The church already supports the efforts of Nothing But Nets...but this new initiative can be considered NETS PLUS... They/We are determined to use education, communication and infrastructure to battle this disease...

As I was running..jogging...wogging today...I also prayed...I prayed that God would help me be successful today...I was... And then my mind wandered to why we were running...besides trying to hurt myself... to fight this awfully unnecessary disease.

I just checked the Imagine No MALARIA website...there are some really neat events taking place...youth and adults alike. Advent United Methodist Church did a 5k walk/run...I would estimate 50 plus people headed out on the trail...all to help combat this disease...they raised $2000! So cool...

I challenge you all to check out the site...Imagine No Malaria and consider donating... in some way...

A Flat Tire...

2011-10-02T20:12:00.000-05:00

*****WARNING*****

*****This is not a feel good post****

This week I was reminded a couple times how I am just a flat tire! I am a 50 something year old mom that is having trouble keeping up... my tire is flat many times during the week! It really disappoints me that A. that this happens and B. that I have to make excuses.

I do no regret having my 3rd daughter...and really how much say did I really have in it? BUT...there are not many 50 year olds out there that have children that they still have to entertain...now...I must be careful because many of Lydia's friend's moms are 50 plus...but they are not included in my rant... and this is my blog and my rant... I warned you up above!!

My work week is long and hard and mentally challenging...again not a complaint...just my reality. I hate to admit that I am time watcher. I calculate how much until I get a break, how long til lunch and when I get to be done for the day. I am NOT night person...

When I go home my day continues...much like others...but again this is MY blog... on a regular basis I have to do some laundry, cook dinner, clean up after, do some other chores, do some schoolwork, go to tennis, dance or some other event...SO when something comes up or I over schedule myself I really get out of sync.

This week it happened not once but twice...and I had mini meltdowns both times.

get up

get ready

head to work

meetings

final prep for classes

teach 3 classes

break

eat lunch

back to teaching

meetings

**** Mini Meltdown One

go home

do a few chores

lay on couch

attempt to attend a meeting

too tired for extra meeting

******* Mini Meltdown Two

go to tennis match

leave early/miss part of last match

head straight into wicked bad traffic

run out of time for dinner...equals starving

drink a pop on the way... have to use the bathroom

look for event and parking

get to event...no one there...still have to pee and am starving

EXHAUSTED...stand outside looking for others

read text...meltdown

return to car and go home...

I sure learned a lot about myself...

1. don't go home before needing to attend work meetings

2. do not over plan... Fridays are for ME....

I make no apologies...heck this is my blog I guess I don't have too!

Do you ever have meltdowns? Do you admit to the meltdown? How do you balance?

Friday Fave Five...

2011-09-30T08:43:00.004-05:00

It's Friday It's Friday...and that means...time to share you favorite things from the week....Susanne @ Living to Tell The Story .... So here goes...

5. After much grumbling and complaining (long story) I have new to us bedroom furniture...and the fave part is my dh went to Macy's (on his own) and bought new sheets and comforter... I was pleasantly pleased...shocked but pleased.

(I can't find my camera cord so no pictures)

4. Our congregation is reading The Story...it is a novel form of the Bible...we are doing this as the sermon, in small groups and with our comittees...It is really a good read...I mean the Bible is a good read...but this makes it really good!

3. Last Saturday Lydia played in the JV Conference Tennis Tournament. She had some great matches and really improved as the day went on. She also had some good matches this week.

2. Over the weekend I weeded out my closet. I went thru all my clothes, boxed up the summer summer stuff...kept out some capris, washed and hung up my sweaters and long sleeves and assessed all my pants...it sure is nice going to the closet and being able to match up some outfits quickly.

1. It is Friday! 'nuff said

What? Wednesday? Wow!

2011-09-28T06:21:00.000-05:00

Three Word Wednesday!

Lots to do

Okay now it is your turn.... You know you want to

I know you doing in your mind...let it out!

Friday Fave Five

2011-09-23T09:02:00.000-05:00

I was going to write this post last night and have it all ready for today...bright and early...but epic fail on my part...I got caught up in waiting for and watching Grey's Anatomy... My one and only guilty pleasure...lol...

Anyway...it is Friday and time to celebrate our Favorite Five things of this week... This is sponsored by Susanne at Living to Tell the Story....

Starting backwards...

1. I loved Grey's last night. I know some of the story lines are ummm not "appropriate" but I think the overall show is well done. I have watched all the seasons. My daughter watches them over and over.

2. Wednesday I made "up" a really good chicken dish. We called it Fiesta Chicken...and I have seen several similar recipes but this one was made with love ...and was fried, baked and broiled AND smoothered with my homemade SALSA and PePPerjack cheese... so so good!

3. Tuesday was my 8th grade daughter's JV Tennis family potluck. It was fun getting back into HS Team functions...lots of good conversation and food...(and I didn't have to cook..well I did...but it was the night before...so that day I didn't)

4. Sunday was a good day... our congregation and another congregation merged... this was after a long year of working out the details..and it so happens that the other church was my old church so it is fun being together again... Our church was brimming with lots of high energy...good stuff!

5. As mentioned above I made homemade salsa last weekend. I have done this for several years. It is a long process...but the outcome is so good...not just for chips ya know!

These pics are from a few years ago...I actually made triple this amount....

!!!!! WEDNESDAY !!!!!!

2011-09-21T08:17:00.001-05:00

Hey hey Hey ....Its WEDNESDAY....

Lets hear about you in 3 words...no more no less...

Here is mine...
Impressing TEENagers difficult

Touched on Tuesday

2011-09-20T12:54:00.001-05:00

As today started I was feeling overwhelmed but kind of in a good way. I knew that I had lots of activities today and that I would be away from home until evening...so I just felt that rush of hyperness. On my Facebook status I wrote about the same thing...

On the way to school as we were about to take our last turn before getting to the parking lot I said to Lydia..."oh look at THAT sunrise" She noticed it but just grunted... I could barely see it but it was coming up over the trees and it made me shiver...and then I felt a sense of calm.

We had to gather our "stuff" and trudge up to the 2nd floor. As we entered the classroom and my co-worker came in she said "wow look at the sunrise" We all looked out the window...and were in awe....

I grabbed my camera... why I had it I don't know...but take a look at the shoots I got...purty ain't it....

The pictures really don't do it justice..but you get the idea! Sometimes God works in mysterious ways...I was happy to have my camera and happy I got to my room in time and took the time to enjoy... and then it was off to the races....

Were you touched anyway today, on Tuesday?

Weekend Review

2011-09-19T06:13:00.000-05:00

We had a packed weekend. Thus my house is still a mess..

Friday was the SSP Packer football game... WOW what a great team! I really enjoy watching them. They have a great following of the community and students. They won...63 to 0

Saturday was a mixed day. The family went to the Twins game and I made salsa. In the afternoon I went to a wedding ceremony. It was a nice day and a nice wedding.

Sunday was church...which was full of high energy. We came home, at lunch, napped and went to see Lion King on the big screen. Later we had dinner and got ready for the week!

All in all a good weekend. I would feel better if my house was in order before all these events. I hope to find that order this week amongst all the upcoming events..tennis...dance...book group...tournaments etc....

What did you do this weekend?

Three Word Wednesday

2011-09-14T05:47:00.000-05:00

It is Wednesday...middle of the work week... So let's have some fun... Tell me in a 3 word sentence something about you..or your day...or your week...Have some fun with it!!!

BRRR It's Chilly!

Get up now!

Too Many Meetings

gotta clean house

Now it is your turn...if you read my blog and don't comment,,,you should...this is so easy and fun!

The Giveaway I won and received!

2011-09-12T10:22:00.001-05:00

First off...thanks to Carmie of Single Nester... I am not sure how I first found her charming blog...but I think it may have been when I was searching out blogs about and around NY...I had decided to find some blogs in that area to stay tuned to what my dds life is about! Anyway...

Carmie was having a give away with a theme of End of Summer fun! I don't always participate in give aways... but this one called my name... It seemed so refreshing.. beaches and grilling...trying to hold onto the summer!

My box arrived last week...Here is a peak of what was inside...

It was such a fun box to get....and all the things remind me of summer. I am tucking it all away for next summer to use! The book Dressed to Grill was especially fun...the titles of the recipes are hilarious like...

FORBIDDEN Nights (Moroccan pesto), GUY Pie (apple pie) and Who's SARI Now (chicken kebabs)

Don't they all sound yummy?

Thank you Carmie for the fun give away!

Something on Saturday

2011-09-10T21:06:00.000-05:00

What a cool date today is...don't you think? I don't mean to make light of tomorrow's anniversary...but I needed to take a break from it all..

Often times...and a lot of the time I will look at the clock and the time is some intertesting assortment of numbers...some of my favorites are:

12:34...

3:16 (as in John 3:16...the first bible verse I memorized)

9:11 (obvious)

10:57 (my house address)

Do you ever notice the numbers?

Another weird game I play is looking for my daughter's initials... LSJ, LKJ and LMJ...or LLL or SKM okay you get the idea!

Today.. in my heart...I hold close all those effected by the wickedness of 10 years ago...and those that are living in fear of it happening again...hold tight...call...make those people feel special!

Friday Five.... and a Tribute

2011-09-09T05:30:00.000-05:00

Thank God today is Friday...and we get to celebrate the day as well as our Five Favorites this week with Susanne at Living to Tell The Story... go visit and maybe join in...

1. This week we went back to school. Not only did my daughter start her second year of junior high, but I started my 12th yr at my district. I really love teaching.

2. Ha! I cooked three times this week..oh wait...two times...but heck that is good! Going back to work is exhausting and usually I have no desire much less energy to cook! (Tonight we are having take out pizza)

3. In my classroom we have an Interactive SMARTboard...it is like a large computer on your wall, but you interact with it....kind of hard to explain...but anyway... I love using it and it has enhanced my teaching! Excitement!

4. This is funny one...for the last two weeks our hot water heater has not been working right...but you know why it is a favorite...I have had so redefine my priorities...I had to realize that I shouldn't take for granted the simple things and realize I will survive!

5. My students are awesome this year...'nuff said!

"Mommy, why did the bad men crash the buildings? " This was the question that my now 13 yr old asked me a little over ten years ago... I can't remember what I told her exactly... but I am sure it wasn't too intelligent... I know for a fact that it include words like Jihad or terrorists or location of Afghanistan etc... It was probably something like "I don't know honey, they wanted to hurt people"

My heart still breaks... I have the People magazine that showcased the children that lost their dad's in and around the towers... it makes me so sad...

I still just can not fathom the how and why...

I pray that as a city, state, country and world we can continue to heal and become more tolerant of each other... I try everyday to make a difference...to care and love for my family, friends, coworkers and students...

Are you making a difference? How?

Life As I have Known It...

2011-09-05T18:19:00.000-05:00

It has been awhile since I blogged...or posted or whatever you call it.. So here is a catch up of my life as I have known it...

On Monday August 21st a hole was ripped thru my heart. I lost a friend to cancer. It was quick and frustrating. His wife was my friend first...and I got to know him thru her... our daughters went to school together since preschool. I feel so sad and heavy hearted for them. My dad died when I was 15, so I get what is going on for them! I pray that they will be able to live their lives to the fullest...

On Thursday August 24th darling husband went to the hospital for what we thought would be for hip replacement surgery...as it turns out he had some heart issues...so we had to deal with all of that... I think he will be fine once we get use to the change of diet and activity level he can endure.

(sometime during this time our water heater started acting up!)

On Monday August 29th I went back to work... We had a super fun Opening Days...well as fun as it could be... We were honored to have Governor Dayton in attendance..He is supportive of education and is determined to not let anything detrimental happen... I am praying for the best. The cool part is Lydia got to meet the governor and some other political figures. It was a great opportunity for her Work is work...but on this same day was my friend's funeral! What an amazing gathering of friends and family...like 450 some people..probably closer to 500... It was a sad day...but also joyous!

During the week Lydia also had a couple tennis matches...oh and the water heater...was seen by several people...

We went tot he MN State Fair on Friday. That is always a fun time. We ate a lot of food... saw some animals...people watched...and ate more food!

This weekend we were busy doing a lot of nothing type of things...Saturday we were all pretty tired...and became frustrated with the water heater...it still is not working right...everything has been replaced on it...but the pilot light won't stay lit...so we do get some "warmer" water...but it shuts off and I have to go down and re light it... It is a newer unit so we don't want to replace it unless it is covered under our warranty! Tomorrow they are coming out AGAIN...

Yesterday we went to church...

Today we headed to Stillwater. It is a quaint little town...it was a lumberjack town back in the day...very charming... we try to go on Labor Day weekend as our little tradition...

So here I sit...the night before school starting... thinking I should try and get something done to make my days go smoother...but it probably won't happen.

Breakfast of Champions...or those angling for a sick tummy or both!

Deep friend pickles were a new thing...I think...

Lydia on her favorite ride at the fair...she has ridden on these every year she can remember!

So excited that Ellen will be on at 4pm... Can't wait!

MN Men in Purple and Lydia

Who can resist Jared Allen?

A small look at the MN State Fair

Lydia with the Prez

A Jack Sparrow look a like and the infamous Haunted House

Today's Date....

2011-09-01T18:35:00.000-05:00

About mid day today... I was in another person's classroom. We were checking in about some new tech stuff we were suppose to learn about. All of a sudden I looked at the screen and on the bottom I glanced at the date... it said....

9-1-11...which if you don't know... that is September 1, 2011!

I blurted out...what is the date today? Everyone looked at me perplexed..and didn't really answer me...but we were all thinking the same...I think... We were all shocked that is was now September!
Several of us had a story or a thought to share about how weird it was that it was no longer August!

I am sure glad I wasn't the only one that was shocked or perplexed it was now September!

Have a nice night!

Recap...One weird week

2011-08-27T21:00:00.000-05:00

This past week has been plan ole weird!

On the good side... we got to watch Lydia play in a JV Tennis match... she did pretty good considering she is just now gaining experience ...that was on Tuesday...Oh early that day I had mentor meeting...which wasn't weird..but just long...

On Wednesday I had a dentist appointment...which I dislike so it was weird!

Thursday we got up early and got Bo to the hospital...this is where things got weird... he went back for his pre op stuff which was suppose to take an hour...about 30 minutes later the nurse came and got me.. and then I was told that Bo had a heart issue and the surgery was canceled... After all was said and done he was admitted to the hospital. Shortly it was explained to us that he had atrio-flutter...which is similar to atrial fiberlation...but different... then the cardio told us the treatment plan...part one didn't work...the next day...much more invasive procedure and kinda weird to write down... electric shock..worked like a charm...and things were beating like normal...Thank God! He needed to spend a second night...which brings us to today...he was told last night he would be going home today...BUT needed to be seen by the cardio...get this...they didn't come to nearly 5:30 pm... spent about 5 minutes with him..and then was discharged..BUT we still didn't get out of there until 7:30... I can certainly see where hospitals and insurance companies bump heads! ugh!

Then the rest of this weekend we are sitting her wondering about Irene...and worrying about Lindsay! It is driving me nuts! I just want Irene to go away...way way east...take a right turn and go home to sea! I think she will be okay...but I know she is anxious and needing for it to be over!

Next will be a kick in the pants for me...back to work..back to the grind...fun to be around my co-workers...but the early rising...is for the birds!

So how was your week?

Thankful..Thursday

2011-08-25T07:56:00.000-05:00

Today is Thursday and I am at the hospital with my husband. He is having hip replacement surgery...he is getting prepped and I am waiting...the battery on my phone is basically dead but I am obviously getting a WiFi connection. For some reason I didn't sleep much last night so I am a bit groggy..

Today I am thankful for:

A sweet friend that hands me my diet coke virtually every morning...she told me I didn't look old enough to have a daughter that is 26....she said I looked to be 42...that made my day!

Encouragement comes in surprising ways...yesterday a was at a service station the same time as a coworker..she asked if it was true that I was a runner...or running..I started to explain...but every time I tried to minimize the fact she hushed me by encouraging and telling me how great it was...it made me want to go run....again!

I am thankful for principals picking the best candidate for jobs...

I am thankful for doctor's steady hands and competent hospital staff...

My heart continues to ache for the Simon family...but I am thankful for the strength to see this through!

What are you thankful for?

Three Word Wednesday

2011-08-24T07:58:00.001-05:00

Okay...just do it... I dare you...just three words...don't be afraid..

Today...is the middle of the week..the work week...give me a three word sentence or phrase that tells the who what when where why of your day..or week...or just feelings...

Here is mine... well I have two...

Rest In Peace

and

Cancer really sucks

I love you...

2011-08-23T19:55:00.000-05:00

My NYC daughter called this afternoon... but I was in a meeting...when she calls I try to contact her as soon as possible...it has always been that way... Anyway... I snuck a text to her and within seconds she text me back saying...

Text One: We just had and earthquake. I am scared

Text Two: I am fine tho!

Text Three: (from Me) Be careful

Text Four: (from her) Just tell me you love me...I am afraid of the aftershocks....

Text Five: I Love YOU!

I got a bit anxious...excused myself from the meeting and called her.....

Me: Hi...stay out of the subway
Her: I know
Me: Are you okay:
Her: J called and told me the building was shaking really hard
Me: scary
Her: We can go home if we want...etc etc..

Goodness...I never thought I would have that kind of conversation...

Unsettling

2011-08-22T15:49:00.000-05:00

Early this morning I woke from my slumber with stomach pains... I laid awake for awhile and felt sad...I didn't want to be sick on my last days of summer break. When I woke up for the second time I felt a bit better and got up and got busy... cleaning my desk station... and then the phone rang...

I checked the number and didn't recognize it...When I answered it is was a dear friend that was obviously upset... She called to inform me that her brother-in-law...my friend... had died today. About 6 weeks ago it was discovered 6 weeks ago that he was in Stage 4 of Gall Bladder cancer... I HATE cancer... This man was one of most genuine generous gems I have ever known... I will miss him.

I had a doctor appointment today. I arrived too early...left to do a bit of shopping and when I went to the bathroom in one store I "got" sick... ugh... it was awful...so I came home and are just laying here...feeling sad..

I pray that tomorrow is better...not that I am obligated but I want to be able to process what is going on and to help where I am needed... God is good...but I am frustrated today!

I am nesting...

2011-08-21T18:38:00.000-05:00

Okay STOP what you are thinking...I am a 51 year old woman...I am NOT pregnant... but I am NESTING.... I just couldn't stop myself this week....I go back to work next week... as in the 29th... and dh is having his hip replaced on Thursday of THIS week...so I suppose we are both feeling a bit anxious...different kinds but still anxious... So her is what I accomplished:

Tuesday: I totally cleaned out all my kitchen cupboards...I re-arranged and re-purposed some of them...and low and behold I have an extra one...weird...I dumped so much stale food and useless stuff...felt good!

Wednesday: I think I re-cooped...I don't remember doing much... Oh I know...I went to my classroom and worked on some organizing there... and on my SchoolFusion Webpage...

Thursday: I rented a Rug Doctor...I cleaned my carpet AND furniture...it was dir....tee... nasty dirty... It looks much better in here now!

Friday: I went back to school and cleaned out the fridge in my classroom...SOMEone closed the the door after I unplugged it in June...so you can imagine the mold...ewwww..it looks so much better..SPARKling actually

This weekend I worked out in the yard for a total of 7 hours... I pulled weeds, planted and mowed... It looks pretty dang nice...

Not sure if I am going to be able to keep up that pace as I am exhausted today/tonight... I want to watch some TV and just chill...

What have you been up to?

Three Word Wednesday

2011-08-17T13:23:00.000-05:00

Today is the day...

Tell me in three words about your day...

I am perplexed

Give it a try....

Friday Fave Five

2011-08-12T09:10:00.001-05:00

It has been for. ev. er since I participated in this wonderful meme... Susanne at Living to Tell The Story is the awesome host and I love reading about everyone's week. With that being said...here is my five..

1. I bought a new to me vehicle. A little back story...I hate finances. I get really nervous and anxious so I rarely go seeking car loans etc.. But I finally did and I had a certain vehicle that I had in mind and I got an ad in the mail for a local dealership and off I went...within 3 hours I was sport this....

It is a Jeep Compass! I love it and although it is pre-owned...it has the new car smell!

2. Earlier this week I went to the doctor for a couple concerns. One was for my back... I stressed out my back muscles from lifting and chasing and fetching my over active dog...and the other concern I had was a suspicious growth under my eye...it was biopsied...it is benign and is JUST a wart and I am getting it removed! I was so dang worried!

3. It seems that the weather in MN has taken a turn for the more comfortable...gotta say I like that. I love being outside but when I can't breath...

4. Okay... I am a 50 something woman and have always bit my nails ...well I stopped..it has been 3 weeks...and they are looking good. I think I am going to treat myself to my 2nd ever manicure today...the first was for my wedding lol

5. I am trying to be back running... I ran over 2 miles this week...that is a favorite on many levels...one being I love to fun, two running clears my mind, three it is something I challenged myself to do and four...hmmm I don't have a four...lol...

(PS: not all these are from this past week...just some of my faves...)

Three Word Wednesday

2011-08-10T07:16:00.001-05:00

Wednesday is here again....tell me in 3 words your who what where when ....etc....

What? More training

Play along....be creative!!

Can't Escape Me

2011-08-07T08:27:00.000-05:00

A few days ago I was lamenting about how much a certain daughter was bugging me...actually dd #2 posted something on Facebook how dd #3 and I were so much alike...I believe we were going at it with one another... a dear friend of mine gave me a chuckle saying "it is hard to escape ourselves" DD #3 is a lot like me.. we have our expectations and get really really frustrated when others don't meet those expectations...but I do have to say that of the 4 females in my family (myself included) we all carry many of the same characteristics...they just come out different.

So... escaping me....

When you are just existing..meaning hanging out at home...not doing much not thinking about much...it is really easy to put your mind in lala land and go blank.

Blank..that is how I have been feeling lately...well since returning from South Dakota...after hurting my back...I sort of fish tailed into feeling blah...not down and out..just blah... The weather was hard to deal with...I love being outside...I hate feeling trapped....but I don't like to feel like being squeezed by the air, either.. So trapped and blah...

Yesterday my heart started to twist and turn and pull....get moving it seemed to be saying...you know..that little voice that said.."pull up your big girl panties" Yep...it did....

So today...I did just that..I got up early enough to RUN... yahoo...nothing better than getting out there one on one with God...no escape..haha... I was stuck... couldn't turn my mind away...or I would be sure to fall...been there...

We had a great little visit...talked... well I listened (I think) to the thoughts being thrown in my face... I laughed some...cried some...and decided that I have a lot to be thankful for... and I have lots of room for improvement!

Have a nice Sunday!

Three Word Wernesday

2011-08-03T08:36:00.000-05:00

Give me three words that describe who, what, when, where or why...About you...

Loving Today's Weather

Play along....

Allergies? Menopause? Noooooo

2011-08-01T08:10:00.000-05:00

July really threw me for a loop this year! We had a lot going on but I also slacked off alot! And now this month I am going to pay for that!

What really made me pause was my health...nothing debilitating or such...but things that made me say "gosh you are aging!"

On my Mission Trip we did a lot of lifting of boxes and other stuff. I don't consider myself a weakling...but I really do lack in upper body strength! After the first day of work my body had all sorts of bruises. My arms looked like I was attacked! Not a pretty sight! I think I counted at least 20 bruises...and I never use to bruise that much! So back to my back...because of all that work... when we returned home I was just generally stiff. One day I had to chase down my dog and grab her...she is little close to the ground so I had to bend way down and on the way down my back stretched the opposite way...and I was down for the count! And true to form I was sore for about a good week and half! I am good now...back wise!

For a couple years now I think I have been hit with allergies. Again this is something I hadn't had to deal with as a younger person...but I do now! I sneeze and weaze and my throat itches and such! BUT I also have this static sound in my ears...constant bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...Most of the time I can ignore it! Well the other day I decided to google "static noise in the ear" and it came up with two possibilities... one is teeth grinding (which I did in the past..).and the other is ALLERGIES! I have stubbornly tried to believe I don't have allergies...I refused to get Claratin etc... well I took some yesterday and the bzzzzzzzzzzing greatly diminished...so I guess I do have allergies... and love me some OTC meds!

The last troubling thing was the growth under my eye. In April I noticed it. . It was strange but I didn't think much of it. Come June...it seemed to get really dry and it was itchy...or I guess I itched it in annoyance.... So...I decided to go to the doc... He decided to biopsy it because it was so close to the eye...and wanted to be sure before treating it as a wart.. well it came back benign which is a big relief... but now I have to go thru the process of getting it froze off...

Oh wait...one more thing..the other morning I woke up to go to the bathroom and had this ginormous dizzy spell...like spinning and spinning...I think it lasted at least 3 minutes... and it made me so sick...I finally made it to the bathroom...and back to bed where I then started to sweat... like night sweats! ick! So I grabbed my Ipad and googled menopause and yep...dizziness is a symptom...as well as night sweats and hot flashes which I had all weekend! ugh...

Oh and my teeth..ack..that is whole different story...lets just say I have some major appointments I should make!

So there you have why my July was nutso ... I have lots of ground to make up...

How are you today?

It's Wednesday!

2011-07-27T08:40:00.000-05:00

Time for......

Three Word Wednesday

My Back Hurts

Give it a try...keep it simple!

Mission Trip...finally!

2011-07-26T19:11:00.000-05:00

Well a week has passed and I have been trying to digest my experience at Rosebud Reservation. It was perhaps the best trip of the 4 so far. I have some selfish reasons for thinking so and some realizations that make it so!

We left on a Sunday morning...hot hot day...and traveled in two vehicles. There were six participants, myself, Laura and Lydia (my daughters), Megan (Youth/Mission Outreach), Corrine (Mission Trip guru) and Carly. Myself, Megan and Corrine has been before and the three younger ones experienced it for the first time. The driving all seemed to go well...we stopped for lunch and some other necessary needs (potty) We ended up taking a different way and got to see some magnificent scenery including the Missouri River which has been wreaking havoc in its path.

Upon arriving we experienced a little chaos...looking for our hosts and trying to get settled. We stayed in a different dorm/house so it took awhile to get adjusted. We then had our orientation. Again ... changes were made and we adjusted our approach. When we returned to our dorm (The Vicerage/Red House) we discussed what "jobs" we would like to do. Laura, Corrine and Carly decided to do construction and the rest of us worked in the warehouse and Warm Welcome. In past years we got to sample all the different jobs...this year they wanted us to stay with the same job for the week. It was okay...but I enjoyed the variety in the past years. The plus side was we really got to know the staff members that we worked with.

The construction workers installed a new shower for a woman. She was the momma of two active boys. The boys entertained the workers and the workers put the boys to work too! They also helped get the new dorm ready to open. They were busy on different areas of the dorm. The group also painted another woman's house. I think construction work is the most rewarding when you get to see the joy on the owners of the homes. They really appreciate the work.

Those of us in the warehouse lifted and moved and cleared and lifted and moved and cleared and repeat the warehouse throughout the week. Just as we cleared it out another semi-load of "stuff" arrived. When this happened we needed to make room and then "deal" with the load. The first load that was donated was 12 pallets of boxed Koolaid Jammers (like Capri Suns) They were boxes of 24 servings...so from what we can best estimate there were probably like 2400-3600 boxes of Jammers. Lydia took charge of emptying the pallets and stacking the shelves in the Warm Welcome. In between the other jobs the rest of us in warehouse took on a huge task. Walmart donates all their returned items (consumables) to Rosebud. Now I am not saying all Walmarts... Anyway... all those little make-up returns...mascara ...eye shadows...lotions...sunscreen...etc etc... oh and damaged boxes of stuff get donated too. Our job was to open the boxes, remove the return labels and sort them into categories of face lotion, sunscreen, make-up so on and so forth. Oh and let me tell you...some boxes had at least a 1000 items...I kid you not! I think we went thru at least 30 boxes of the stuff... but then another donation would come in..on a semi...in a van...by foot and we would have to stop the sorting and jump to figuring out what to do with the donation! The craziest thing was on Friday... we had just finished cleaning out the warehouse for another shipment a church from North Dakota arrived with a 15 seat type van stuffed to the gills with bedding...alot of bedding! Nutso!

On our day off (Wednesday) we took a trip west to see Mount Rushmore, Wall Drug and Bear Country USA...fun was had by all!

I want to say that this is the best trip thus far due to being with my girls. They worked very hard and I was very impressed. They rock! Also, we finally figured out how to manage meals. We each took a night...well...not each...but 4 of us did...and then we took turns getting cleaned up. Very efficient and tasty...

For the most part I really enjoyed this trip...as I always do! It is long short hard exhausting exhilarating week!

Summer Update

2011-07-24T22:11:00.000-05:00

Well summer is more than half way over and I feel like I am spinning my wheels! It is all good but lots of things have made me stop in my tracks!

One thing that has stopped me is the weather...the heat and the second thing is my back issues..which seems to be on the mend...I have taken less meds today! Yahoo...

So looking back on my summer bucket list:

1. Blueberries and Strawberries have been picked and lots eaten! So good!

2. Read six books... I have read 4 so far...History of Love, Deed So, Maine and ??? I can't think of the other. I am disappointed I have not read more but I do have 6 weeks to go...

3. Go camping 3 times...fail...I am now hoping to just go camping...

4. Get control of my body?? I have started eating better... and I have continued to run...and have had plans to start shredding...but my back has set me back some...alot...

5. Organize my house...this is my project to start this week... it got out of hand with the re-do of Lydia's room... but all is not lost...yet

6. Mission Trip...DONE and AWESOME

7. Bike Riding...ehhh not so much... Garage Sale(s) a little...

8. My garden is growing...not overly productive yet...

9. Tech savy...I am working on it...I have my Ipad,,,now have to figure what to do with it!

So I am only moderately pleased with my summer...I do have lots of time to go yet!

So here is to SUMMER BREAK!!!!

Concerns

2011-07-21T13:43:00.000-05:00

This past week as been riddled with concerns.. Things that make me pause and wonder.

1. When we returned from our mission trip, I received an email from a friend. The email brought me to tears. The email writer's (my dear friend) husband had just a week before been diagnosed with a stage four cancer. This man is a true blessing and my heart is just so full of sadness.

2. Another concern and quite mild but yet a concern is that my dear husband needs hip replacement. We don't have many details as he goes to meet with the surgeon tomorrow. (Friday) This all just puts a pause into our summer not knowing when it will all happen

3. Yet another concern is that I hurt back this morning...chasing after the dang dog...she is lucky I like her (notice not love her! yes I do!) So every step I take is taken with hesitation! It will heal and I will be fine...but I have too much I want to do!

4. My house is a mess. We are in the middle of re-doing dd # 3 bedroom. This girl has way way too much stuff. So we have stuff everywhere and it is stressing me out! blech and ugh!

5. Speaking of a house concern... I have the itch to totally organize once and for all! It is a daunting task that I hope I can talk my middle dd into helping with. When my house is a mess I can't focus and don't know where to start!

So do you have any concerns that I can help you with?

Just Today...

2011-07-19T10:21:00.000-05:00

I am out of sorts today...I am not going to complain about this weird awful stifling weather...no I am not going to complain that I love being outside in the summer because I don't get out enough in the winter months...nope no complaining from me!

So today...here I sit..muddling around the house...basically bored! I could read, I could watch TV..but those are just too passive for me...I did all that yesterday!

So far today I have cleaned out my dresser drawers... washed some clothes, took Lydia to tennis and played online...I have been up since 6AM...What the heck!

My allergies have become annoying...my eyes burn and my throat itches and my ears are stuffy!

But you know what... I am thankful for what I have... Life on the reservation is daunting... and I really should be more content...

Today I am going to get myself into a positive frame of mind...I am going to go buy some Claritin....and suck it up!

Have a nice day!

(PS: Carol... I am working on a Rosebud post...just having a hard time putting it into words!)

Mastercard

2011-07-17T05:42:00.003-05:00

One bathroom shower remodel...... $1000

2400 Koolaid jammers unloaded and given out ..... $1200

A new dorm for the awesome volunteers ..... $5000

27 boxes of sorted Walmart donations..... $10,000

A Mission Trip with Megan, Lydia, Laura, Carly and Corrine.....

Priceless!!

Thanks Ladies for an awesome trip!

Three Word Wednesday

2011-07-13T07:00:00.009-05:00

(We are on our Mission Trip)

Three Word Wednesday

Rosebud Indian Reservation

Our Day Off

God is Good

Appreciating Life Daily

Play along!

Blueberries

2011-07-11T19:50:00.001-05:00

We discovered the love of blueberries last summer. I never really thought I liked them until I went to a blueberry patch/farm to pick them fresh off the bush! When we return from our trip (which we are now on) we are going blueberry picking! I am really looking forward to it! This spring I bought 4 blueberry bushes and planted them in my yard. The other day I went out to weed around them and to just check them out and what to my wonderous eyes did I see... 4 whole awesome berries! So excited. I know that I won't get many berries for a few years so seeing these made me smile!


My berries!!!			Check out the video below.. It is where we pick (sorry about layout)

Our Mission Trip

2011-07-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

As you are reading this..if you are reading it on Sunday, July 10th..we are on our way to South Dakota. We are heading to Rosebud Reservation where we will spend one week working to help bring the white and red nations together! We will be working and playing bringing our hearts closer to God...

The above video is their promo and does a pretty good job showing what we do! This year my daughers are going along and that makes me excited...it will be refreshing to see it thru the lives of my kids.

Here is a post from after our first trip!

Mission Impossible

Please pray for us! These trips are so awesome and eye opening!

Dear Blog

2011-07-08T17:13:00.000-05:00

Dear Blog,

Summer is in full swing. We have been lounging around, enjoying the summer. There are days that I get up really early and others that I sleep til 10. The days I get up early I am the most productive and the other days...not so much! Dare I say I get bored some days? I do get bored but it isn't all bad. I find myself thinking about things and planning for the future.

When Sonya of The Mellow Pages wrote about wanting or needing or desiring to have time to just be to do things at her own pace I felt a bit bad for my good fortune. Because I am a teacher I do get to have time to do what my heart desires. I wish everyone could have this time. It is refreshing.

We are gearing up for a week long Mission Trip... more to follow about this!

Well..Dear Blog... we are heading out to Lebanon Hills for some ummm Paddleboarding...

Love,

Me

Three Word Wednesday

2011-07-06T06:00:00.009-05:00

Three Word Wednesday

Busy Like Bees

Play along... give me three words that describe your life right now!

Something on Saturday

2011-07-02T12:17:00.000-05:00

Silence...

Silence is Golden...

The Silent Treatment...

There is no one in this world that I would rather be like than my dad. Growing up I would observe him observing the world...taking it all in. He marched to the beat of his own drummer. He wasn't a weirdo or anything like that..but he didn't mince words either. He was honest to the bone. But if something upset him or someone attacked... he acted silently and swiftly... He didn't call names... he didn't put others down...but he did make his feelings known. And then he would let it go. Now this is how he appeared to me...this is my opinion.

I wish I could be more like this. I wish I didn't take what I observe to heart and stew in it. I wish I could handle criticism better. I wish I knew what others meant by being so silent. It hearts me so much.

Social media certainly can be demon. I have fun with social media but it can also hurt. I have been trying to stay away...but sometimes it is just automatic...pick up the computer check this check that...or text someone... and become curious if they understand what you are saying... or worse yet no response.. but really maybe they are just busy... When there are so many ways to communicate silence sucks.

This weekend will not include much silence... we will be out enjoying life with family and friends and watching and hearing many booms and bangs...and the dog will be barking... wearing our Red White and Blue!

Happy Loud 4th of July!!

Dear Blog

2011-07-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

Dear Blog,
This week emotionally I have been a mess. For some reason I have had many sad moments, but I have no explanation. To my daughters...do not worry I am okay. In fact I am more than okay... I just have had moments of not understanding my own thoughts. I have wanted to just stay around what is familar.

This week I have cut back on Diet Coke. Please don't laugh dear Blog...but Diet Coke is part of my identity... I am known as the teacher that loves diet coke... Most of the morning employees @ McDonalds know me and my voice over the intercom...so when I say I have cut back I have also cut back on my identity...crazy ? ya I know!

I have had a lot of thoughts swirling around in my mind. And tasks to complete. I have to spend the next week getting ready for my mission trip and then the following week on my mission trip. I am sort of tired just thinking about it. I know it will be good but it is a bigger deal this year as I get to see it thru Laura and Lydia's @@'s

I hope that I can start to sort out all my thoughts. My thoughts are about my future endeavors and my past mistakes.

I am thankful for my belief that I can falter and receive forgiveness and move on all in one moment..I am thankful for the comforts of my home, the love of my family, my friends that don't hold grudges, I am thankful for morning chats with people that just happen to be in my life..I am thankful for the ability to pay my bills...I am thankful for air conditioning and 100 degree weather.. I am thankful for not having to explain myself to people that care...and I am thankful for Strawberry Lemonade!

I started to write this Dear Blog being angry and wanting to just shout it all out..but then it turned out to not be so bad... I just am tired today...and have a heavy heart!

Love,

ME

My Summer Fun today...

2011-06-30T21:16:00.000-05:00

Nothing screams Summer louder than

Strawberry Lemonade

Spraying and playing with water and the dog

Nearly 100 degrees

Going to the movies with those you adore

AND

PIZZA!

Today was a good day!

Alliegance (to family) and other stuff...

2011-06-29T11:49:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I get into situation that make me bristle. I love my family to the depths of my heart and I do not make any excuses for that. When I have to make choices that pair against my family I will most always choose my family. This is true when dealing with colleagues, work doings, church activities and friend activities. And to be honest it is not always easy decisions to make. I love all that I am involved but when push comes to shove my family rules. I think it makes people think I am anti-social and sometimes it feels that way but it is who I am!

How do you balance your social obligations and family obligations?

On other things...

This week started out with the need to balance. I often have to lay it on the line for my family and I am sure it drives them nuts..

We usually have a lot going on and have active minds. Tuesday was busy. I had a training to attend, a tennis match to watch (go Lydia) and a Twins game to attend (go Twins). Today I woke up and realized that to make my summer a good summer I needed to accomplish some things in my house and life so that come July I can do some things that will bring creativity to my life.

I am spending the next couple days in my home...and then am looking forward to a relaxing weekend.

We are staying close to home for the 4th...spending it with family... and friends and watching fireworks and swimming!

What are you doing?

Pause

2011-06-27T19:08:00.000-05:00

For me summer is a time to pause...to slow down and relax and I have been doing just that. In fact I have not been doing much of anything and I actually thrive on it! In past years I would start to feel anxious because come the 4th of July I would feel my summer is cruising by...not this year. I am actually anxiously waiting for the 4th..haha..

Other pauses I have needed to take...on Saturday my laptop crashed... for the 2nd time since I bought in March '10! Needless to say I am bummed. Luckily I have a desktop...but it is super slow! I also get to use my daughter's Macbook to use which I love and wish I could purchase one... but that is another topic... but I am going to take advantage of this crash and limit my computer use while I am getting my laptop fixed...

The other pause is...I am trying my dangest to eliminate my craving for Diet Coke... I love me some Diet Coke... I am not sure if it is the caffeine or the taste or the fountain pop I desire...but I do know that it is inhibiting me from losing weight...and I need to loose some weight!

So there you have it...am I nuts?

Sixth Chamber Bookstore

2011-06-21T20:57:00.000-05:00

This post is all about Sixth Chamber BookStore . It is on Grand Avenue in St. Paul, right off of Hamline. Last summer my daughters and I and then my sister and I stumbled across this awesome Independent Used Bookstore. My daughter and I went back again today.

Okay, so you know that odor...that odor that assults your senses when you walk into some used book stores? Well...forget it... Sixth Chamber has none of that. When you walk in...all that overcomes you is all the books... many many books. Clean organized books of all shapes and sizes but all in next to new condition.

The reason we went today is because I was on the hunt for a couple books for my book group reads. When we figured out what books we were going to read the rest of the summer I was excited. I had both books already. So I went to where they were suppose to be and much to my chagrin...I remembered that I donated one and the other I borrowed to another teacher that was letting a student use...and ahem...she didn't give it back to me...I am sure I will get it back in the fall..but I. Need. It. Now... anyway...Sixth Chamber had them both... half price... ahhhh thankfully...So I started my stack...with Peace Like a River by Enger and Left to Tell by Ilibagiza

Then I found :

The Great Brain series...for Laura...for her classroom collection...
Lizzies War by Tim Farrington
Miss American Pie by Sartor
Emma's War by Scroggins

I found like 5 more interesting books but I decided to leave them for someone else. These books all seem like something I will like. What was really neat was the conversation we had with one of the owners... she loves talking about children's literature...she had found all the Great Brain books and had them together and was able to pull them for me... I read those as a 5th or 6th grader..loved them...She showed us some brand new never been read yet picture books...one of which I bought...and will show you later...and she also gave Laura some titles of series that she loves and wish more kids would read...

I can not say enough good about this place...the atmosphere, the choices, the conversations...all delightful. If you are local and think you would ever visit...LIKE them on Facebook for some bonus percentages off...

So...the picture book I bought... Here is the You Tube of the complete book... I thnk I am going to share the book with my students in the fall... and probably this video....go ahead and watch it... it is good and good reminder to all of us...about the power of books...

The owner of the store showed me the book first and then took the time to share the video with us... talk about service...

So if you are local...please consider visiting Sixth Chamber Bookstore ...trust me...you won't be disappointed!

My BIG lost Ambition...

2011-06-20T20:23:00.000-05:00

Lydia is off to camp and I have 2 full days to really get something done...something productive. My plan was to have a garage sale. This weekend is our city celebration and with it included an All-City Garage Sale. Lots of traffic and good opportunity to get rid of some stuff... Well on the way home from camp I lost my ambition... well and maybe I really didn't...but I don't want to spend my time sitting and pricing stuff when I can spend time doing something more meaningful...

The hard thing or frustrating thing is that I already have a ton of stuff sitting in my living room, ready to be sorted and priced..NOW what? I really can't put it all back...hmmm... I could just put it down in the basement...yuck! hmmm what to do what to do...

WAIT... I am going on a mission trip...hmmm I know! I will sort it and box it up for the Reservation! Ahhh a WIN WIN...

Shoes! Clothes! Household items! PERFECT !

And now to a bigger worthy project... Shhhhh ... I am not ready to tell... I will show the progress as we go...

Mission Work

2011-06-16T21:21:00.000-05:00

A couple Sundays ago an interesting award was bestowed upon me. It is named United Methodist Women Special Mission Recognition. It is an award given to someone each year. I was honored and a bit unaware.

Mission work is not something I ever think of doing. It is not something that comes easy to or for me...in fact it stresses me out..not a bad stress but more of a now how did I get myself involved in that. I am introvert. I don't go looking for things to do. I would much prefer hanging out at home...you know watching TV, reading...and cooking.

About 4 years ago I was intrigued by an adventure my church was going to take. On the bulletin board there was a sign up to go on a mission trip. The trip was going to be in August to the Rosebud Indian Reservation. Something came over me and I signed up. I still can't make reason of why I did it! That is history...This July I will be making my 4th journey to South Dakota...the 3rd to Rosebud.

My point being... this was the start to my "interest" in Mission work. Now I can still say it isn't something I am automatically drawn to. On the way back from Rosebud with my dear friend Carol, she asked if I wanted to lead the next trip. I wasn't even sure I wanted to go back...but I said sure! But then I was asked by the "people" of church...well...I guess the nominating committee to be the Mission Outreach Team Leader... I eventually agreed...not even knowing what it all meant!

So fast forward 4 years... The award was being presented to me and I was listening half heartedly because surely they would never be speaking of me...this person has been a Sunday school teacher, lead Lent Activities, Summer School Food programs, Flood relief missions etc etc... It finally dawned on me when she started talking about Rosebud mission trip... All in all it was a bit overwhelming as these are things I just do because I can...not necessarily because I want to... but because I am being lead to...

When I find myself getting worked up about what I get myself into I do pray and I do calm down and do the work and most of time I am pleased...

Philippians 4

6-7Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

Summer So Far...

2011-06-14T13:27:00.000-05:00

Well... besides wacking my knee on a pew in church on my way out and watching it swell up with liquid.... I am assuming with water under the knee cap... Summer has been s u   p e r sllllooooowwwww....

I was suppose to attend a two day workshop this week but my knee said "um No...you can't bend me quite yet..." So I stayed home...and I don't regret that what so ever....the knee issue yes...but staying home...no way!

So yesterday I sat on my bed and pulled stuff out of my closet... I sorted and dumped and sorted and dumped...every pair of shoes in that closet now are matched up...and all the "bags" are put with in a larger bag...winter clothes are folded and in a bin... I couldn't get the stuff off the shelf so that will have to wait...I did manage to throw some things up there...literally!   I then pulled a chair to my coat closet and pulled stuff out and made piles...my family didn't appreciate me as they walked into the door and I had them sort and put things away...but closet number two is done...

After that was said and done...I hobbled outside into a chair and read my book...well my kindle on my Itouch that has a book downloaded onto it...I so want to finish this book because I have 11 more I want to read!

After Lydia was finished coaching we met up with some friends...the girls are going to tennis camp together...so we sat on their deck and discussed all the logistics..you know...snacks to bring, time to leave, fans or no fans...what clothes? Swimsuit? etc! I wish I were going!

Today has been much the same but my knee issue is distant memory...well it is a bit jiggly...but next to no swelling...

So I cleaned my last closet and cleaned out bathroom drawers... I am so thankful for my summer to be able to gain my house back...

I have squeezed in several naps...I have been tired.

I have something planned every day this week...all minor things...but good things...

So...back to reading for me and planning a meeting and thinking about dinner and and and....

What is going on for you?

Low Key

2011-06-12T20:54:00.000-05:00

This summer promises to be low key. It hasn't started like a bang like many of my past summers have been. Only one grad party to attend...no weddings...no babies... just my own things to deal with. As the last couple days of school approached I felt myself get anxious and then a little depressed. At a meeting I attended I was quickly reminded that I should be grateful of my time off...and I am..but this year it is a little surreal. I am not much of a lounge cat...I am not the type to meander around my house looking for things to do... I don't really enjoy sleeping in...I mean if you call 8am sleeping in then so be it... What I am getting at is I think I was feeling a bit anxious about not having any plans... we didn't buy pool passes, Lydia is doing lots of tennis stuff, we are going to do some camping..but that is about it! I do feel like it is enough. I think that because my school days were so full of anxiety that I am having a hard time settling in... Tomorrow is really only the first real day of break... and for that I am grateful!

Today was a weird day. My head was full.. and my heart was jumping all over the place. I got up early and read some emails, I ran in a 5k race, went to church, took a nap, hung out with family, went to a grad party... all while feeling like I was looking around the corner..

Tomorrow is a new day and I plan to live it every moment!

I need I need I need...

2011-06-01T21:45:00.000-05:00

Back in the day I use to be an avid reader. And acutally it wasn't too far back in the day...lets just say pre-facebook...and pre-blogs and pre-message boards. It makes me so frustrated that I have stopped reading avidly. I use to stay up for. ev. er reading. Not anymore. Nope I crash early...I get up read online stuff and go to work come home read stuff online Repeat!

So...to combat this issue... I made a pact with myself.. I am only holding myself accountable... I am going to stop everything online except blogging and reading my favorite blogs..and yes if you are reading this and if you have a blog I will continue to read and comment...

I am craving books and stories and a way to get lost..

So what are you reading??

Memorial Monday

2011-05-30T19:39:00.000-05:00

Today is the day to honor those that have given us our freedom and freedom to others in this world. Today is a hard day for me...but I try to make the best of it! Thirty Five years ago my dad, a Navy and WWII Veteran died of that dreaded cancer. My heart broke that year and although it has mended it has never been the same. I have no regrets about my life but do often wonder how different it would have been.

As tradition has it we spend Memorial Day weekend with family. We have always spent parts of it together, but in the last 16 years it has been at the same park...Lake Rebecca Park Reserve. The group shrinks and swells but it is always fun.

Today we visited Fort Snelling National Cemetery. We in the metro area are very fortunate to have this cemetery so close to us... it is filled with so much history. Some day I am going to make it my business to go out and explore more in depth. Today we witnessed graves of our fallen soldiers that are very new...so new they don't yet have standard issued grave stones... It make my heart so sad to know that these people just recently stood under the mini-shelter and listened to the gun salute as the American Flag was being removed from the casket in preparation for burial...much as we did in 1976... not an easy thing to bear or remember...

I am a proud American. I am proud of our country. I am proud of our freedoms. I am proud of my dad, uncle, brother and nephew who have and are serving our country!

Something on Saturday

2011-05-28T13:35:00.000-05:00

Today has been absolutely awesome! We all slept in longer than usual... and woke up in good moods! I am hopefully anticipating summer to be the same...

In the past few years I have been blogging I have posted a "bucket" list in the beginning of summer for the summer months... I am going to continue that in this post and then will move it to my sidebar when school is out... My list is probably going to be smaller and more consise as I don't have any big plans...

1. pick and eat a gazillion strawberries
2. pick and eat a gazillion blueberries
3. read a minimum of 6 non-book group books
4. Mission Trip
5. 3 camping trips
6. swim in 3 different enviroments (lake, river, pool)
7. master a 5k
8.watch AMC every day I can...
9. get control of my body
10. become more tech savy
11.keep my house clean and orderly
12. bike ride whenever I can
13. garage sale(and ing)
14. find a suitable craft
15. maintain my veggie garden

I am going to stop at those...I was starting to overwhelm myself.

The good thing is I have several books lined up to read, the Mission Trip is planned and I have started (in the middle of) Couch to 5K...so I am on the way!

I love sort of plotting out my life...gives me somethings to ponder

What are you doing this summer for yourself?

Friday's Favorite Five!

2011-05-27T13:11:00.000-05:00

Yes yes yes...it is Friday again and I am ecstatic! You see...this is my last of something that I will explain in my Favorite Five below! Susanne at Living to Tell the Story gives us all the chance to share our favorites from the week...so read below and then go visit others...

1. Today is the last day of the last full week of work before I start my summer break! Even tho teachers have been slammed over and over this year about this very thing...I am going to still gloat and be happy!

2. On Wednesday I went out to dinner with my friend Megan... we chatted and planned for some fun conspiracies...sounds mysterious doesn't it!

3. On Thursday I was treated out by my Union to yummy steak dinner... it was so good and I am still full this morning... lovely company... and the people I sat with and I planned a camping trip this summer! I am very excited for that!

4. Another favorite was that I got my vegetable garden box put together and filled with soil. I have yet to plant the veggies but I am at least moving in the right direction...

5. My husband is healing nicely from a surgery he had a couple weeks ago... and he is looking forward to going back to work...me too...I am looking forward to him going back to work!

Lawn the Mow

2011-05-26T02:11:00.000-05:00

Of course when I decide to cut the grass.. it becomes appealing to all in the house. I like to cut the grass because it is sort of a mini-vacation. You can't hear anything and you can get lost in your thoughts! So, I went out into the garage to get the lawn mower set up and it was just like a magnet...and there she was...

Lydia is dressed like a fashionista...I mean who cuts the grass wearing a fashion scarf? Really??

What's there not to Love?

Oh Sunday...

2011-05-22T18:54:00.000-05:00

What is wrong with this family? Yesterday and this morning we were up early...clearly on days that were made for sleeping in...rainy and cloudy...but we were out and about... Saturday Old Navy had their $1 Flip Flop sale...so off we went...and bought 10 pair... between 3 of us... 10 pair you say? yup...and they will all get worn and worn out! No worries...from May til Labor Day that is basically all we were on our feet!

This morning...dodging the nearly continuous rain storms we headed to the Farmers Market... we were desperate to get our veggie plants...we got eggplant, green beans, cukes, tomatoes and jalepeno peppers... I don't have much time this week to get the veggies so today was the day... We were able to get them before getting a drenching! I love the St Paul Farmer's Market!

So although it sounds cray to be up early like that...we got some needs taken care of.....

We didn't have anything on the calendar this weekend so it was slow paced and at times boring... I did go out to eat with my mom for my birthday...and my sisters' ...three of us celebrate birthdays in May! We jokingly watched the clock for the infamous 6pm... and as we all know..the world as we no it did not change..drastically...lol...

This upcoming week there is alot on my calendar...stuff that I need to attend to... choir concert, Union Dinner, comittee meetings, planning meetings... hmmm it is looking like Monday and Friday are my only nothing evenings! The good thing is it will bring Memorial Weekend to us quicker...

We are excitedly waiting for the end of the school year... we have a 5 day, 4 day and 4 day weeks left...lots to get accomplished and it will go quickly!

Friday's Fave Five

2011-05-20T10:42:00.000-05:00

I haven't participated in this in a very long time and I have missed it. I think because of how busy I have been that it is Friday before I can catch my breathe... So today I am urging you all to check out and maybe link up with Susanne @ Living to Tell the Story! If you do you get to sit back and reflect ont he goodness of your week...or you can blog hop around and read about other good stuff...

1. This favorite happened way back on May 6th... but I am including it because it makes me happy... My middle daughter graduated from college. It was a happy day in our life...just like when oldest daughter graduated...it is what we work for as parents...a bright future for our children!

2. Yesterday I planted 4 blueberry bushes in my yard. I bought them at the local Farmer's Market last Sunday. I am so excited, but they are still babies. They won't produce many berries for a couple years but I do have a blueberry farm to visit to tie me over!

3. In my yard we have a crab apple tree. It blooms every Spring and is such a delight. We wait in anticipation every year because it is a true sign of Spring... I wish the blooms would stay around longer!

4. We have an abundance of squirrels. Squirrels sort of creep me out...but today they made me smile. They were just hanging around early in the morning gathering their daily food...gnawing away on some wood chips. I was surprised that my usually "squirrels make me nuts" dog wasn't barking her head off to attack them.

5. Several years ago on the side of my house we planted this bush/tree...every year I have to rack my memory to remember what it is... I believe it is a Magnolia something or other. It has the most gorgeous blooms...doncha ya think?

Happy Spring!

Tormenting Tuesday

2011-05-17T15:36:00.000-05:00

My personal world turns and turns. I need it to stop...as it is wearing me out! Too much for me to keep track of and to process... Not all of it is bad..in fact much of it is just life...but just too much with which to deal. I am tired.

But I am woman

Hear me Roar!

I am so thankful for those people in my life that keep me sane.
I love being there for people because I know the same people are there for me...

Today I am thankful for:

* awesome mother /daughter talks
*watching my offspring delve into the world
* making vacation plans (shhhhhh)
* coworker friends
*anticpation of book group (geeky but whatevs!)
* being able to rant and still be loved!
That about covers it!
*

Moments of Monday

2011-05-16T22:10:00.000-05:00

Today two cool things happened. I finished a really really good book. It is titled Unsqueezed and the author's name is Margot Starbuck. I am sort of at a loss for words...most what she had to say was met with a "well duh" from me...but the reasons she gives made my heart and brain perk up...She is humorous and down to earth kinda lady. A couple statements from the back cover are:

Are you stuck in a mold that doesn't fit? Jump out of that suffocating mold and discover what your body is really for..

Basically this book discusses who we are and who God wants us to be... I dare you all to pick AND read a copy...

The other cool thing is today I received information...including name and photo of my new sister....the woman from the Congo that I am sponsoring. She is 35 and a mom to one child. She will be spending the next year learning about being a woman, being education and how to become self-sufficent! I am so excited to be walking this walk with her. I pray that we become aquainted and can share our joys together! If you are so inclined...check out the link on my sidebar to learn more about Women For Women! If you do decide to sponsor or become involved in other ways please let me know!

Sunday Reflections

2011-05-15T19:00:00.001-05:00

What a beautiful day it is today! The sun is shining and the sky is blue... there is a slight breeze that keeps it all good! We noticed today that everything outside sure has greened up. Such delight.

Today I am just okay. I didn't do my usual Sunday thing.. I didn't go to church...so I feel a bit off kilter...Some weeks are just like that... two places to be and only one way to get there makes it necessary to miss out on other things...

I am full of anticipation today and it makes me feel unsettled. I stayed busy doing things but didn't really accomplish much. I did go for a run...slow and pathetic run but I did go! My new shoes were fabulous. I did or am make a delish dinner... I am hungry so am anticipating that... We only have 4 weeks of school left...but really only 18 days... one day off for Memorial Day and then some weekends and it will be over for another summer...I am anticipating our annual Memorial Weekend picnic with family...it is usally fun...but another thing to plan for... aaaaauuuugggghhhhh... My heart is just jumpy today.

Things happen for a reason...And sometimes I get overwhelmed. It makes me feel so helpless inside.

Today I am thankful for:

1. The bright sun
2. blue blue sky
3. blueberries
4. praying
5. making summer plans
6. new running shoes
7. Raising daughters
8. good dinners
9. friends
10. good books to read

What is on your mind today?

Something On Saturday

2011-05-14T22:22:00.000-05:00

This month almost wipes me out! We have been so busy that when I do get some down time I quickly nod off to lala land! Thus my blog has been suffering...but it is Saturday and I have to post Something on Saturday.

Women for Women

Over a month ago my book group read Half the Sky by Kristoff and WuDunn. It is perhaps one of most mind numbing heartwrenching book I have read in a very long time. The result of me reading this book was that I am now almost a proud sponsor of a Sister in the Congo. I am still anxiously awaiting the info on my sponsor..Hopefully this week...

In the mean time I deeply encourage you to visit the Women for Women website....by clicking on the button in this post.

There are a few ways that you can help the wormen for war torn parts of the world... You can shop through the Shop Smartly link... I know this type of shopping can be a pain...but once you start to use it... it gets easier and a percentage of your total comes back to Women for Women

You can donate money here...

You can sponsor a sister here...

I am usually not the type of person to sponsor anyone.. I get nervous wondering if I can keep up my end... I really wonder if it could possibly do any good and I wonder if my money will help etc...but I couldn't resist this time... so I did it...I think you should too!

Reflection on Sunday...

2011-05-08T20:06:00.000-05:00

After a simply hectic week that included 3 birthdays, college graduation, and mothers day I am ready for a mellow week...oh wait...not going to happen...Dance Recital week is looming... with 5 evenings...and lest we forget...2 softball games...hey wait that equals 7 days...

Well in an effort to forget all that for awhile... I have the need to tell you what I finally did...I am so ding dong excited... and you will be too...@@...that is an eyeroll not a link to something! lol...

Last year for my 50 birthday I was given a gift card to a store called The Running Room. Yep...it is a store that sells running shoes..clothing and other running things... (please..those that gave me the card...don't be mad!) I finally used that card today!

I bought me some R.U.N.N.I.N.G Shoes... I am so excited. I went in...they did an analysis of my feet by having me walk a short distance barefooted... I learned that my feek land where they are suppose to and that I have super high arches... Not sure how that impacts me..but it may be the reason that most all shoes make my feet hurt..I digress... So the kind running girl... showed me the shoes that would most benefit me... and I tried on 3 different kinds.... and ended up with....

They are so comfortable... and my feet breath and my toes don't feel crowded! The running girl that helped me was able to answer all my beginning questions... So now...NO. MORE. EXCUSES.... Just Do It!

Rightousness

2011-05-02T20:37:00.002-05:00

Osama Bin Laden... he is dead...How does that make you feel...

I am going to admit right here on my blog that I raised my hands in the air and said "yes...'bout time" Does that make me bad??

I am not sure what I am suppose to think.

I will not ever take away the feeling or negate the feeling of the surviors and family of victims from 9-11...they have a right to their feelings.. Or the fireman in NYC or the Mayor of NYC... they have a right...

Do I think we should berate everyone on facebook for expressing their feelings? This is America were we are free to express our feelings..Right?

So the question I had all day... how should I feel? How do I express what I feel without making others feel bad? How do I follow what I know in my heart to be what Jesus would do?

I think for me is to accept the fact that I am a human... I make mistakes...

So... a question...the orders that President Obama gave Kill Osama Bin Laden... he made it point clear what they were to do...The Navy Seals that were given the orders did what they were ordered to do...they followed those orders... So are they right or wrong?

In the past few months I have reiterated to those in my life that I feel people are good and do not in general think people intend to do bad...I don't think those chanting and partying are bad people...only humans with real raw feelings!

Day May 2nd.. Happy Birthday

2011-05-02T06:00:00.001-05:00

The month of May keeps me hoppin" Today is my middle daughter's Birthday. She is a light in my life that is devoted, loving, kind and what you see is what you get kinda person! I am in disbelief that this once "it's pips it's pop" gal is a soon to be graduate from her mom's alma mater and has potential to be Teacher of the Year! Love you to the moon and back!
L is for loving

A is for audacious

U is for understanding

R is for radiant

A is for ambidextrious (I just had to write that!)

Happy Birthday Laura!

May Day Happy Birthday,,,,

2011-05-01T06:21:00.003-05:00

Ahhhh May....finally... I love May...

Today is my oldest daughter's birthday...What a lucky gal to be born on the first of May...Lindsay Sue...She is a delight. She is a determined...goal-setting... driven person. When she sets her mind to do something and you get in her way WATCH out!

L is for lovely

I is for intelligent

N is for natural beauty

D is for DIVA

S is for Sassy

A is for Alluring

Y is for You are loved!

I am so very proud to be her mom.

She is a light of my life..

raZZle daZZle ZiZZle Zip...

2011-04-30T09:47:00.005-05:00

Razzle Dazzle Zizzle Zip... Come on Packers let it Rip ... South Saint Paul Packers that is!

Laura was my softball player. She played pretty much from Kindergarten age thru most of college!

Her coach after me was also her Elementary School principal John Laliberte... He was a softball enthusist and loved to coach...at least is appeared he did. He held high standards for the girls and they respected him to the max.

John had many things he would say to the girls "get on your horse..." and "razzle dazzle..." So much fun...those days were!

So there you have... the A-Z Challenge...is now complete!

Young at heart...

2011-04-29T08:29:00.004-05:00

Young at heart is how I feel! I was given a second chance to be young...and I feel maybe someday I will need to grow up!

When I found out I was going to have baby number 3 I was DEV.A.STATED...no lie...not something I was wanting at all...that was then...my now is way different..

She is loved to the moon and back for all eternity..

But really...playing Barbies AGAIN...lol

So...Lydia is getting all the credit for keeping me YOUNG at heart! What other 50 yr errr almost 51 yr old mom jumps on a bike to just for a ride...or go out and play catch...

Pretty much the people I have hung around with...have been her friend's moms...all aged appropriate...you know...young..late 20's early 30's... when we met...now they are late 30's early 40's! (not all some are older than me!)

But I have also gotten to coach softball again... I think I have coached 10 teams in 26 yrs! I have gotten to be a Scout leader again... 16 years in the past 20 years... I have taught Sunday School... hosted a gazillion birthday parties... I have to say

Thank you Lydia for keeping me Young at Heart!

eXasperated

2011-04-28T05:19:00.004-05:00

So here I sit trying to think of a cool X word. Not wanting to rely on "ex" version...but looking at all the words that actually start with X stress me out.... I can't even sound most of them out plus I don't even want to sound them out or know what they mean!

This alone EXASPERATES me (makes me annoyed or impatient) So today's idea...blog post is going to be a vent... fair warning and if you are part of my life beware... I make no apologies...

1. I am exasperated by the whole Obama birth certificate ordeal...Come on people admit that you are racist...want proof that our President was born in the United States because you don't think a black person can be an American citizen....Come on Donald...just stop it!

2. I am exasperated at work because people are so satisified with the status quo. Everyone wants things to change but no one wants to be the change maker...

3. I am exasperated with the weather... I usually don't complain or whine about the weather...but this is ridic...I am cold.. the clothes I am wearing are WINTERish! ugh

4. I am exasperated with my body...enough said..

5. I am exasperated with meetings...meetings that go one 4 EVER...and meetings where no one wants to do anything...

6. I am exasperated with people that complain about their life (me included)

Okay enough...Today I am grateful and thankful for

1.My Country and how different but the same we are

2. That I have a job...I love teaching

3.That I live in such a gorgegous state in this wonderful country

4.That I have no scary ailments and that I can walk

5.Being part of groups of people that have great ideas

6. Most of all I am thankful for the people in my life...for the joy and love they show me on a daily basis...and how they take me by my shoulders and offer a hug when I am feeling blue...or a shake to wake me up....

Women of the World...

2011-04-27T09:52:00.004-05:00

Did you know that many women of the world live in abhorant conditions? I am not just speaking in third world conditions. I am talking in conditions that are abusive. They are being raped, enslaved for sex, having babies under horrid conditions and little to no care for woman type issues.

Check out these links for ways to help...

White Ribbon Alliance for safe motherhood

Women for Women International I am anxiously waiting for information on the woman I am sponsoring...

Women's Campaign International

Women's Dignity Project

Women's Learning Partnership

Women's Refugee Commission

Women's World Banking

Women Thrive Worldwide

Worldwide Fistula Fund

I just clicked on the links and none of them work...I will try to figure it out!

Village

2011-04-26T12:26:00.005-05:00

My philosphy is that it does indeed take a Village to raise our children. This includes my children also! I know none of us like to hear if our children are not living to our standards or the standards of others. I think they learn more when they are confronted or held accountable by other people. It pains me like no other to confront negative behavior....but it is such a joy the next the day...week..month...year.. to have the child come back with improved behavior or changed life.

Another half hearted post... I had deeper thoughts but my frame of mind just is lending itself to producing....

Understandably So...

2011-04-25T11:53:00.003-05:00

Some days I am just amazed at what I hear...Understandably so I work primarily with teenagers...or almost teenagers...

Lots of times I forget that the ones I work with have less than parents...not saying bad parents...but usually parents that parent less than I do...

They ask me the weirdest questions and lots of times I need to catch myself before I give a flippant answer... I need to figure out if what they are asking is really what they are asking or if they are being smart alecs! When I started this post I had some good examples but right now I have nothing...

So Understanably I am going to end this now!

My Day...

2011-04-24T20:01:00.006-05:00

Awesome, beautiful, calm, delightful, EASTER, family, God, healthy, idealistic,

Jesus, kind, Loving, mindful, nice, obedient, peaceful, Quiet, restful,

spiritual, talkative, underestimated, Victorious, wonderous, X-cellent, yearning,

Zesty kinda day!

Treats

2011-04-23T19:28:00.003-05:00

I was trying to be all trust and teach , but not tonight... All I am thinking about is the Easter treats...

My favorites are Snicker Eggs...followed by Reeses anything...miniatures or eggs... oh then I have to throw in there Dove Milk Chocolate eggs...oh and then malted milk ball eggs...I honestly think Easter candy is way better than any other holiday...

What are your favorites?

Sisters or Sistahs...

2011-04-22T18:36:00.004-05:00

I have the best sisters...I mean the best! I am also a mom to daughter that through think and thin are good sisters! ...

I am oldest of 5 kids. Four of us are females and two of the 4 are sisters that mean the world to me! We have been through a lot together and I know if I need anything and I mean anything they will be there for me... They are there to hold me up and to tell me to shut up!

Brenda is my rock. She and I pretty much see eye to eye...but not on everything. But we still like each other...She is wonderful mom, too! She is so logical. She loves my kids like they were her own.

Becky is my relief. She is my "baby" sister and "little" sister. She is the mom to four boys that are so much fun to be around. I often get inspiring and funny texts and messages from her just checking up. Many times before texting I would get cards in the mail from her. She also loves my kids like her own.

I am so lucky to have these two in my life. They are what a sister is suppose to be. They do what a sister is suppose to do!

ReNew...ReDo...ReMake...

2011-04-21T07:18:00.007-05:00

I like words that start with Re--- I like them because it gives me the sense of a second chance... A second chance to re-do a test or a report...a second chance to make thing better. I also like the chance to re-make things...especially food...many times I remake something and can make it better or more special...

My favorite Re word is renew...

Renewing my spirit..my love for my faith , my spirtiuality is so ahhh haaaa Refreshing...

(photo borrowed from Google Images)

For fours now I have been attending church services on Maundy Thursday. The first one I was like "eh this is interesting..." It took me awhile to catch on to the meaning.... The second one I think was when I did a reading ...so I was sort of wrapped up in that...making sure I was doing what I was suppose to when I was to do it... I understood more what was going on but not the total depth of it... Last year Lydia helped...and I was nervous...I was half listening and half making sure she hit her cue so to speak...

This year... I allowed myself to just listen...to take it all in...to renew myself in the story of Jesus.. It was...to me... good... powerful and strong... and REassuring...I am reassured that Jesus loves me and forgives me my sins...