Treasured Possession

Sweet 16

2011-07-02T10:56:00.001-07:00

We have been married for 16 glorious years!

This picture was taken on the Angels Opening Day.

What did we do to celebrate??? Well, we are on vacation with the kiddos. SO, we did what every romantic couple with kids does, and went to the movies and saw Cars 2. I giggled at the irony of us celebrating 16 and most 16 year olds want to drive, yet here we were watching a movie about driving......... Then we walked the longest pier in California, to eat at a wonderful, and fun restaurant - Rubies. Along the walk we watched hundreds of fisherman catching their daily amount of fish and two were lucky (?) enough to catch sand sharks.

A more romantic dinner is being planned without kiddos when we get home. All in all, it was a great family date night.

Mwah Babe!

Arrrrrrrr..............

2011-06-23T09:39:00.000-07:00

Preparing for Battle
Aboard the "Jolly Roger"

We've been invaded by Pirates in these here parts. When Bubba was little, he was an avid Pirate fan. Now, we are pirate fans again. Only this time the Capt'n has a crew who is more than willing to play along. They even have the puppy playing along as a crocodile (but those pictures didn't turn out).

So Ahoy and enjoy your summer days, for I know I will be as I listen to my swashbuckling crew!

Memorial Day.....

2011-05-30T17:33:00.001-07:00

To those who serve our country: THANK YOU!

To those whose loved one is over seas or deployed away: We are with you, in prayer and spirit

To those who have lost a loved one due to war: Our sincere condolences, and prayers for your mourning heart. Our family has been effected as well.

This year Memorial Day took a different spin. This year, we have a loved brother serving in Afghanistan. This year it hit home for us all in a different way.

Our city does a Harley Davidson Ride every year that travels right by our house. This year my in-laws rode in honor of their son serving. We cheered and yelled as we saw them ride by. This year we had even more reason to show support. This morning as the Black Hawk helicopter flew and circled our neighborhood, my little guy saluted, in honor of his uncle that flies on the same helicopter.

We in our household fly our flag proudly. We love those who have served in the past, and are currently serving, for we are a military family.

May we never forget the sacrifice that others are making, so we can sleep safely at night.

Doggie Paddling......................

2011-03-21T19:08:00.001-07:00

(photo taken at my brother's pool - a blessing for the whole family, puppy included)

This picture is VERY cute. However, my pooch has a step he is on, an incredibly large step. Right now, I don't feel like I have a very wide step. I am doggie paddling through my days, weeks, moments. My work schedule changed - a very good and needed thing. Now, it calls for some adjustments.

My Crock Pot has come into full use several times a week.

My Laundry Basket has to be managed by the person whose laundry is in it.

Cleaning my house standard has become: Good enough. Not perfect, but good enough.

My children have learned that there are bonuses to getting ready for school on the "Early Days"

My husband is amazing and when I get the early morning phone call rearranging my day, once again, he steps in and packs lunches and whatever else I need. I married an amazing Man.

I pray that my friends and family who probably feel neglected realize that it is not them, nor my intentions, but rather my poor swimming skills at the moment.

How in the world?

2011-03-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

We went all natural snow sledding - the snow was waist deep, and thigh high ~ literally.
My precious snow family....

How can it possibly be March and double digits tomorrow? Last week, we were still in February! I am not sure how it happens, but it seems to happen this way every year for me. One day February - I still have plenty of time to plan Missy's bday. Then all of the sudden it is in three days! Yowza!!! Maybe this year was worse, since I had to travel out of state last week. However, it never really seems to fail.......her birthday sneaks up on me. In my defense, I have proof that last week was still February. Maybe the calendar fairy is stealing days and storing them up for summer break (aha, my favorite theory here!)

This year, she doesn't want a party. She has her mind set on a shopping trip instead. We have discussed, and rediscussed this - the girl knows her mind. With three days until the big day, I am glad that this is the plan. Pictures to come, I hope.......

Last weekend though, we took a jaunt to the mountains for some family time. Much needed family time.......Here are some picts!

Words.........

2011-02-24T19:52:00.000-08:00

The POWER of WORDS.......

Today I experienced words in the most positive way. I was in a random conversation that divinely turned deeper, it called for me to be real. I revealed some fears and inhibitions that I am facing at an upcoming conference. (Not an easy task, especially with the person I was talking with). The person I was sharing with looked shocked. She replied to my real fears with words of not encouragement but a genuine heartfelt compliment. Maybe this touched my heart in a different way, because I don't have these kinds of conversations with this person. Maybe it touched me because she gave me a boost of confidence at the right moment.

Either way, I left the conversation with a bounce in my step and a feeling that this event that is coming up, will indeed be successful. I left the conversation feeling refreshed.

The power of a compliment. The power of supportive words.

This encounter left me wondering who I could bless with some simple positive words........after all, I chat quite a bit ~ might as well make them count in a positive light.

~Blessings.

Post Stealing

2011-02-22T17:39:00.000-08:00

To view my post that I WANT to post: Go see Lady Dunbar from my side bar. That was my weekend. Except for the fact that on Monday I was playing with Bubba and busted my head open. Stitches, black eye, the whole fireworks. That is why I am Post Stealing today. I can hardly keep my eyes open without pain since I worked all day today.

Blessings!
Mrs.C

Double Digits

2011-02-09T08:38:00.001-08:00

This picture is from dinner. This boy, who won my heart over even before he was born, is now Double Digits!

As a Mama, this birthday has been hard. He is NOT a little boy anymore (although I still see it when he sleeps). He had a few friends over to play football in the park. For the family party he wanted to watch the Super Bowl and have Tritip, homemade rolls, and cheese mashed potatoes. TRITIP!!! This was such a grown up birthday.

He is one of my many treasures. I love this boy, more than I ever thought imaginable to love a child. It puts it into perspective just how much more God loves him, and me.

Happy Birthday Bubba!

Traitor..........

2010-12-27T18:56:00.000-08:00

Not quite sure, how I was the only one who received white, but I like it!!!!

I feel like Benedict Arnold......a Traitor to the literary world. But I can't help it.......

I (and the other huge readers in my family) have traded over to the Kindle!

Yup, that is right, I went digital. The sad thing is, I can see my kids going digital reading before WAY too long, but not before we are out of picture books. Our bookcases are full now, and I am nowhere near the point of wanting to stop reading. I will miss the smell of a brand new book, but a girls only got so much room in the house......

So it was a VERY Kindle Christmas around here. My Mom, Dad, and Bro all got one, including ME!!! This new advancement to the e-reader, will not stop me from rereading the current books that line my shelves now, but it will be handy in the new books coming my way.........

Happy Reading, whatever form you choose!

Singing in the Rain..........

2010-12-21T17:24:00.000-08:00

These Munchkins were preparing for water balloon battle at the time of the picture - hence the shorts. Now, we are wearing our boots for the reason they were made for ~ RAIN! Our neck of the woods, has received almost 2 inches of rain since Noon today. You know it is BIG, when we make national news! Remember, we are in So Cali....not really known for rain, but SUNSHINE!

OK, so I took a walk today with the little Munchkins and the Puppy because we all have been in the house for 6 straight days now. We need some exercise. As we left it was misting heavily. We kept walking, jumped in a few puddles, watched the creek behind our house overflow.....Enjoying the weather. By the time we rounded the VERY flooded park, and the kids tromped in the EXTREMELY flooded play area normally filled with wood chips, it was really coming down. I didn't know what to do but keep walking home. What other choice is there? Secretly I was hoping Hubby would drive by on his way home from work......NOPE. So we walked, and my singers were singing in the rain: Christmas Carols. Priceless.

Puddle Jumping

2010-12-20T16:31:00.001-08:00

After Puddle Jumping, we needed to be warmed by some good ol' Hot Coco, and a Marshmallows Snowman (notice on side of cup). For this activity, her brother decided to join her ~ funny how that works. He has been coughing and wisely chose to not jump in puddles. Hot Coco is just what the Mommy Doctor ordered.

Her Trusty companion in the rain. You can't really tell in this picture, but here is Puppy, still half soaking wet, after being towel dried. He chased balls and bit at the rain, while she splashed away. They both had a ball.

Seriously ~ how cute is she? Sorry for the sideways view, don't know how to turn it. This is what comes in adventure fun, after four freezing days of rain. Love it, but bored kids are never fun. Yesterday's creative fun was blowing bubbles in the rain, to see how fast they popped. They surprisingly pop fast when Puppy is biting them.

All the while she was jumping in puddles her song went like this:

"Rain, rain, stay today,

Stay around till Christmas Day!"

Personal Tradition Change.......

2010-12-14T20:02:00.000-08:00

This is my new choice in reading. I have read it before, and L.O.V.E. it!!! It is spiritual, personal, and encompasses the true meaning of Christmas and the faith and hope that go with it. Highly recommended. Also, apparently Max Lucado has written another Christmas book called the Christmas Child. I haven't read it my self, but based on popularity, and who wrote it, can it be bad?

As stated before, this was a pick by my school's book club. I for one am not a fan. They made a Hallmark movie out of it. However, the drama and struggles were a bit too personal for me to enjoy. Some of the conflict wasn't my cup of tea to be reading at Christmas time. So very unlike me, I stopped reading it. Usually I torture myself, thinking and believing there will be redemption near. This book I just gave up.

Dickens is still next, but I somehow gave out my copy, and need to go find it, or get a new one.

Happy reading.

Reasons to Love Cali.........

2010-12-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow our skies will look like this as more "wintery" weather blows in.

Today: our skies look like this picture perfect and resting in the mid to high 70's.

I don't live in Syracuse and get 39" of snow dumped on us in three days time. I don't live in Alaska where they don't see the sun for months (although, I want to go and see the Northern lights one day, wanna join me Cathy?) Anyway......this weekend we got blessed with warm weather. Too warm for some.

We went to Disneyland and wore flip flops with our Christmas t-shirts and jeans. Today Bubba wore shorts to church. Today is a gift for us who live in Southern Cali. Today is a gift because we can enjoy the sun, and relish in the beauty that God created.

Never fear, winter is right around the corner. By the end of the week, it is suppose to be in the 50's. For us Cali chicks, that down right cold!

Hope your day is just as beautiful, regardless of what weather you are having.

Personal Tradition

2010-12-07T18:59:00.000-08:00

Every year at Christmas time, when I have the time, I only read books about the Christmas season. This is my own little tradition, that helps me in the Holiday mood. Some are spiritual, like the one from Max Lucado. Some are just for fun. These are the two for this season. Mrs. Miracle was actually picked by co-workers and our noncommittal book club.

I have picked this one, because I have seen almost every version of the movie, yet have never read the words that Mr. Dickens penned himself. It's about time. That and it fulfills another personal goal of reading a classic a year.

Happy reading, and if you join me in my personal tradition, let me know so we can chat about it!

Whirlwind Weekend.............

2010-12-05T15:45:00.000-08:00

This weekend was a blur. So much going on, and yet so much time to reflect on it.

It started on Friday with Parent/Teacher conferences. The kids and I got a more relaxing morning before we had to report in. Then I got the opportunity to go with Mr. C. to our kid's conferences, before going to the ones for the kids I see for work. A blessing to hear about your children, and what the teachers think of them. A blessing to see their hard work be acknowledged, and yet at the same time, see areas of growth that need to happen.

Usually we go to Disneyland to celebrate the end of the beginning of school, and to see the Christmas decorations. However, that wasn't in the card for this year.

After conferences, the kids and I came home so I could change clothes, and then headed back out to have lunch with Daddy. Funny, when the kids get to pick their choices: Subway while eating out at the tables in front of Daddy's office. Fine by me, healthy, beautiful day, and you could see the ice skating rink and decorations.

Then it was off to the races. Curling Missy's hair for her BIG Christmas performance. Getting Bubba to soccer practice before playoffs start. Somehow making and feeding the family dinner, and making it to all these places on time.

Missy was AMAZING in her Christmas performance. I wish I had pictures. Yep, that is what happens when you are running around like a mad woman, you forget the "easy" camera. However, never despair, Mr. C. got it captured on the big camera that isn't loadable to my laptop. GRRRRRRRR. At least we have the moment captured, and had a great cookie reception afterward.

Then on Saturday, we were up with the Sun ~ literally to get to the soccer fields for round one of playoffs. The boys were ready. The parents were bundled up. The excitement was in the air, we had arrived to this point. The game was great, we had control of the ball MOST of the game. The ball should have gone in the net, several times. However, fate found it's way to the field........ Although the boys played with endurance and with their whole hearts, we ended up loosing 1 - 0. Our first loss.........Several players cried, several parents cried. The coaches were teary eyed. It was a shock to our systems, for we were undefeated. The way the boys played, it shouldn't have ended that way, but it did. So we went home, licked our wounds, and rested until we had to return to the fields for round two. Round two would mean that we were ineligible for the championship round, but we had a job to do, and were ready to do it. Again the boys played with endurance, speed, and a hunger to make the end of their season end right. Bubba scored an amazing goal, the others played with their hearts as well. We ended up ending our season winning our last game 3-0. Bitter sweet, but sweet all the same.

We were all tired from the events that had happened over two short days. We had much needed family time. We went to the movies, took the kids to a fun dinner to celebrate good report cards, relaxed with each other. We ALL are going to go to bed early, for tomorrow starts another week..........

16 years ago........

2010-11-27T09:17:00.000-08:00

16 years ago..........We had the trivet here all to ourselves. Unknown to me, the event was being documented and videotaped.

16 years ago, he asked one of the most important questions.......

"Will YOU marry me???"

16 years ago, I answered........YES!!!

Happy Engagement Anniversary ~ to my Prince Charming.

Triptaphan Happy

2010-11-26T09:02:00.000-08:00

I personally love the Triptaphan High that comes with a meal like Thanksgiving. Stuffing yourself silly because it all tastes soooooo good.

Having the munchkins excited that the Christmas music can finally flow in our car, as we drive home. Having them so exhausted that they fall asleep before we get home.

Spending time with family is what it is all about.

Now it is Friday, and unlike some, I WON'T go shopping. Today is the day to continue the Thanks. We will clean, watch some movies, and eventually get out the tree ~ but undecorated. Decorating the tree will come later in the weekend. Christmas will slowly come to our house, each new thing one to wonder at, appreciate and get excited over.

But for now, as our bellies are still full from the night before, we just sit in our Thankfulness....

Have a blessed weekend.

Cow Chip Cookies...........

2010-11-18T17:24:00.000-08:00

THESE are the most DELICIOUS, AMAZING, STICK IN YOUR MEMORY FOREVER thing in the world ~ and they were mailed to me today!!!! A whole DOZEN just for me, unless I decide my family is worthy enough to share with.

Isn't this box the cutest???? Love it!

Rarely, do I get "Fun" things in the mail. A catalog can be considered fun, but that just usually gives me the "Gimmies". An occasional "Snail mail" comes, but with family living in a 5 mile radius, we here rarely get the fun stuff.

However.....TODAY.......I GOT IT...........

COW CHIP COOKIES!

My friend Laura sent them to me. Here is the funny part though ~ just this week, I have been having a conversation with a cyber friend and fellow Blogger: The Lemonade Makin Mama. She lives close enough, she and some of her girlfriends could go and get some. It would be a trek, but I would do it, especially at Christmas time!

Laura moved away from Cali long ago, but our friendship remains. Even she has moved away from the Emerald City. However, we spent countless days eating away a snack or two, under our totem pole and drinking milk which then matured to Starbucks. This is a food that is eaten with a memory. Never quickly acquired, but savored down to the very last crumb.

If you give a girl a cookie, she'll have memories to go with it. If you give a girl a COW CHIP cookie, you will have changed her week for the better, maybe the entire month!!!

Thank you, thank you, thank you thank you, thank you and THANK YOU!!!!

XoXo.

Thankfulness prepares our hearts

2010-11-14T16:43:00.000-08:00

So I was over at Lissa's blog: Humble Pie, and read this paraphrase from her friend (Tracy)

"Thanksgiving is the time prepare your heart with gratitude

for the upcoming celebration of Jesus birth."

If that isn't reason enough to be Thankful, I don't know what is. I never have thought of the season of Thanksgiving, in preparing me for Christmas, and having a grateful heart. Now, my family and I will be forever changed.

These are some of the things I find Gratitude in:

Neighbors that we have a mutual "Sharing of the bounty" with. When one of us cooks something tasty: we share! It goes both ways and is such an outreach, that and super TASTY!

The laughter of Children

The look of pure peace on a sleeping child

Disneyland!

Dentists and Orthodontist (that my kids LOVE)
Sunshine
Cool evenings
Happy Dogs - that truly look happy
The smell of freshly bathed babies - oh my niece smells like Heaven!
Friends: old, new, or from the blog world, walking the adventure of life with me
The smell of a fire in the fireplace, or better yet on the beach with friends
A great book
The simple and amazing fact that my children can read (big with a first grader) and more importantly love reading, and being read to. I see the flip side daily........this is a treasure for sure.

What brings you the spirit of Gratitude this week?

Medical Thankfulness

2010-11-12T17:09:00.000-08:00

We are blessed. Truly, truly blessed. My husband is a civil servant in his job. It is an amazing job that he excels at, but his ultimate boss is the governor of our state. So with the ups and downs of Cali government......sometimes his job and paychecks are - shall we say interesting.

However, we are blessed. We have insurance! Wahoo!!!! Now, some of you may be thinking - a blessing yes, but this chick is over the top.

On Wednesday, the kids went to the dentist for cleanings. This is a process, for my little Missy, but as she gets older, it is getting easier. Good news, NO cavities for either child. Bad news - her pockets are really, really deep and is going to have extensive sealants done next week, where anesthesia will be used etc. My portion of this bill, will be to make our dentist cookies.

Yep, over the top excited because today, all FOUR of us went to the eye doctor (and friend) for check ups. Now, you might be thinking - ah, your friend is your doctor - hook ups! Well, we do get hook ups, like appointments when we want them.....but I don't think its because we are friends, I think its because he is an amazing man and doc. Anyway, all four of us got our eyes checked. Mr. C's and my prescriptions stayed the same. However, the munchkins.........Bubba is fine for now, but Little Missy needs glasses. The sorta funny detail, is her prescription, is exactly the same as mine! So Daddy helped her pick out these adorable pair of glasses (I was finishing up my exam). Now, I am overjoyed because I never knew my little one couldn't see, but in a week, she'll be seeing just fine in class. The majority of the expenses were covered by what? INSURANCE!

Thankful for this week.............

2010-11-09T03:50:00.000-08:00

This week, I am thankful for so much. This is one of the reasons I LOVE November, it makes me reflect and focus, on just how blessed I am!

So here is my list for the week.

That we go to a church where the truth is told, whether you like to hear it or not. Truth is truth, and we get offended by it, only when we are in the wrong.
The weather is getting "fallish" outside
The weather is not blistering hot, so it makes me want to cook, bake, and spend time in the kitchen (this makes hubby thankful too)
My children are playing together and giggling up a storm
My husband loves me
My husband is handy, and does things for us like painting the fence (envision Huckleberry Finn here)
My children are close enough in age and distance to cousins to play, and have a ball
My almost 10 year old will still snuggle with me on the couch
When we focus on God's truth, it far surpasses the lies that are trying to fill our brain
Because our country celebrates it's Veterans, we get a THREE DAY week for school and work.
We got the opportunity to talk to my brother in law stationed in Iraq this week. Just to hear his voice was reason enough to be extremely THANKFUL.

In stealing the words from Cathy: "All of this and God too!"

What are YOU thankful for?

Our first "Baby" turns 14

2010-11-05T19:30:00.001-07:00

This is our first "Baby" Charley the kitty. We got him soon after moving into our first house, right after our first anniversary. He was barely 6 or 7 weeks old, and won over our two very "Non-cat" people's hearts. When we first saw him, I thought "No, way is Mr. C going for this scheme". However, Charley was sly......he climbed right up on Mr. C's lap, curled up, and started to purrrrrrrrrrrr. Now, 14 years later, we still have him curling up on our laps, and hear him purrrrr.

We celebrate birthdays big in this family for many different reasons. So tonight, we ate seafood, in honor of Charley. The kids got KitKats as a treat, and we are watching the Aristocats. A purrrfectly perfect way to celebrate the "Kitty's" birthday.

Oh, and as for the beast next to him......not his first puppy he has whipped into shape. They happily get along as you can tell. However, if Charley were to go out the slider, Koda has permission to bring him back in the house. Protector that he is! Ask anyone, we have the coolest cat in town!

Thankful for...........

2010-11-04T18:43:00.000-07:00

IT is November 4th last time I checked the calendar. Being in education of elementary kids, you check it every five minutes when they write the date.

SO.......last week, when completing Missy's costume, I became outraged that one half of the store was clearance of Halloween and the other gearing up for Christmas. CHRISTMAS!!! Now, I am no BUM-Humbug.....but come on!

I will stand, until I die for the season and Holiday of Thanksgiving. I love that we still have pumpkins all around the house. I cherish the fact that my porch has pumpkins with other fall trinkets....... I am so excited that this weekend, a stuffed animal turkey that Mr. C and I got our first Thanksgiving married, will sit on my mantel, and at times chase my kids around "Gobbling" after them with kisses (okay the kisses are from me, but the game is hysterical!)

So.....Here is a list of things I am thankful for out of the spirit of being Thankful this month (in no particular order):

My God, loved us enough to give us Salvation, when we don't deserve it.
We live in a country where the people vote for changes, and issues that matter to them as the people.
Pumpkin Spice Lattes
The coolness of evening and the warm Fall days
Although this week, we are really warm with Indian Summer days, we are blessed with the last tastes of summer
My kids attend a wonderful school with teachers who LOVE them - mentally and spiritually
Hubby and I have jobs we love, and that work well for this season of our family
We have an amazing family. Sure we got some quirks, but who doesn't and it adds spice to the pumpkin pie of life!
Our pets are funny, and truly part of our family
Our neighbors are friends who gather on the sidewalk or in the street and chat about life

More thankfulness coming next week! What are YOU thankful for?

Where's Waldo (aka - me)

2010-10-27T20:02:00.000-07:00

Where o' where has Mrs. C gone?????

Some of you may be asking, others may have just written me off. I understand and no real hurt feelings. Even this weekend, Mrs. Dunbar commented on the fact that "I see you comment, but where's the post?" I felt like the old commercial "Where's the Beef?"!

Here is a short recap of my last month:

New job: taking more hours, yet producing more joy than I thought possible. Funny, how when you are right where God wants you; you can be crazy busy, stressed by the learning curve, and perfectly happy and content all in the same situation.

Marriage Getaway: Every year for the last 9 years, our church hosts a Getaway for the married couples. For the last 6 years, I have been behind the scenes. Helping those that needed the help, tying bows, cutting paper - yada yada. The last 3 years, my role has stepped up. Now I am the one asking friends who are able to help me tie bows, cut paper, and this year make the cutest (so sorry no picture) milk cartons out of paper. They were stinkin' adorable if I do say so myself. Then the time of the weekend, it is Mr. C's and mine time to serve the attending couples. We are actually considering doing another married group, and leading it, but we'll wait on that until after the holidays.

Kids: Missy in Art classes on Monday nights from 4 until 6, rush home, finish homework that wasn't done in the parking lot, shove food down their little mouths, shower and bed for all.

Bubba: Soccer on Tuesday nights, repeat of Monday. Then on Friday night repeat (yes, Friday night practices - UGH!!!)

Hubby: Ever patient, kind and supportive of our new and crazy life. At least this week, our family underwear was clean on Monday! Yeah!!!! He roles with the punches, volunteers with Bubba's soccer team, and doesn't truly care when the underwear gets washed, as long as at some point in the week, he has some clean. Now we get ready for his traveling season to being.

The rest of me, taking into perspective that life, at its craziest, is not as crazy as some. I for one, am thankful for my life, craziness and all.

Tales from the Crypt............

2010-10-01T16:08:00.000-07:00

Today, I thought I was headed here. I knew I wasn't going to survive! I got the call yesterday to be a HIGH SCHOOL sub. I would have said no, if it wasn't for the fact that the man on the other end of the phone is someone sweet and dear to my heart. We have a bond, that makes me say yes, to things that quite frankly scare the begeebers out of me!

Well, a really good, kind, and compassionate friend emailed me this......"High school is cake. You tell them what to do and they should do it. Unless, the teacher tells you to actually give instruction, then your day might be screwed." Thanks Mrs. Dunbar!

My day on Thursday was so full, and so tiring, that I slept like a baby. Kids were taken care of, we were on our way out the door......when I looked down to see that the puppy had slobbered my shirt! YIKES!!! I can't teach all day with puppy goo down my shirt. Run upstairs and quickly change shirt. Good thing I was wearing black pants.

Get to my Alma matter high school, and was sent in the office to retrieve the key I would need for the day. Who is there????? Another beloved friend. She gives me a hug, gets me my key, and sends me on my way to teacher meeting (wasn't expecting this). "Oh but you must go" she says, "they would be so disappointed to NOT see you there........."

Off I go....back to an old classroom of mine, LATE to a meeting I wasn't intended to go to. My hands are shaking as I open the door. Every desk is filled except one - MY old one from when I attended school there. Really God???? Really???? God's sense of humor shining in this moment. Of course no one knew it was my desk but me.....but still. To some extent it was comforting for me to sit where it was comfortable, in a chair that had held my bum for so many hours before.

Off to the classroom and my first period, being escorted by the new principal......The day went fine. I had mostly seniors, who for the most part were perfect teenagers (is that an oxymoron?). I played a School House Rock video on the Preamble to the Constitution in three periods. Gave a Pop Quiz, and watched them work frantically so they wouldn't have homework over the weekend.

My day ended at 12:20, a full day teaching for this teacher! A stressful situation ended up being a lot of fun. Going back to High School wasn't that bad after all. I might even do it again!

What a Week...........

2010-09-17T09:32:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the commercial......"CALGON take me away......." That is my week.

For the record, this is NOT my bathroom, but I wish it was. Do you see the rose petals and the serenity that is in this bathroom?

This week, I started to work with the students that have been entrusted to me for therapy. It is a whole different ball game to be planning sessions instead of lessons. To be intentional, while trying to realize that now I am doing these strategies on actual kids, not adults or my own children. It is different when you look at a lesson planner and realize that what is filling the boxes are children with specific learning needs and disabilities instead of subjects, state standards, and homework. My partner, and boss told me I would be tired. She tried to warn me to take it easy. Do type A people heed warning to NOT over due it?! Well, not this one. I am wiped. She too admitted to coming home and taking a TWO hour nap - I WISH.

Amazing though, that when you are in the place that God has called you. You may be tired, worn out, and exhausted all at the same time and in different parts of your body, but are filled with peace. I was tired, but never to the point I didn't think I could go on. I was anxious about doing a good job, but not stressed to the point of being crazy. All week, I had a peace and confidence that was not coming from me, but from my Father, who kept confirming I was where I was suppose to be. That feeling of being right where HE wants me is the best there is.

Then we started with Missy an amazing Arts program with parent meetings (whew only for the first week). We had soccer, schooling for hubby, homework that we are still getting used to and just general crazy life with two kids, a cat and a dog.

Tonight, my parents are blessing us with an invitation for the kids to come over for a movie party/ sleep over. Rarely does it happen that they are asking US for the kids. We are tremendously blessed that they are always happy to help with our hoodlums, but tonight they are asking for them. So after soccer practice (yes, we have to go with Hubby being assistant coach) we are going on a MUCH needed and anticipated Date Night. I can't wait to start the weekend.

Happy Friday, and hope your weekend is filled with Fun Family Memories.

Choosing the RIGHT words

2010-09-15T09:09:00.000-07:00

I received a lesson this week in choosing the right words at the right time. As I stated last, I spent the weekend at Women of Faith.

My family spent a good part of their weekend at the soccer fields. This was one of the trade offs of me going away.........I was going to miss the first soccer game of the season.

While playing for the Comets, Bubba scored a goal. The only goal for his team in the game. Later while telling me about it, on the phone, I kept saying "I am so proud of you!" and I was. Except something kept eating at me. The word wasn't right.

Well, after finishing hearing this year's speakers, and hearing their stories, I figured it out. You see, they were talking about God, but I could relate it to human parenting. I wasn't MORE proud of Bubba because he scored a goal. I was proud of him because despite the heat, he gave it his all. Despite some bad calls by refs, he still was trying to do his best. The most important thing that I was proud of him for, was that although most of the game they were loosing, he had a fun attitude about the game. He wanted to be goalie, and stop any more goals from coming in. He wanted to be the best player he could be, while having fun playing a game he loves. THAT is why I was proud of him.

That night, as I tucked him into bed and went through our nightly rituals, I had a serious moment with him as well. After prayers, I had to specifically point out that I was EXCITED for him that he scored a goal, and PROUD of him for his attitude and fun spirit. I didn't want him to think that his performance made a difference on how I perceived him. He went to bed understanding, and I left him in his room with a smile on his face. (Glow in the dark retainers help see the smile in the dark!)

The lesson here that I learned is that I want my children to understand that I am their biggest fan, even if I am rooting for them 45 minutes away. I also want them to know that win or loose, score or not, I am proud of them when they try to do their best. Just like our Heavenly Father is proud of us when we are trying our best.............................................

My Weekend

2010-09-12T10:50:00.000-07:00

My weekend took me back to Women of Faith. I haven't been to a convention in 8 years. It was time to reconnect with these women with so much wisdom. Our church went as a group, but I went on my own Friday morning. This was my favorite session, quite possibly because I was alone, and could sit and relish what God was saying to ME, sitting among thousands.

I can not tell you all of the lessons that I walked home with in 36 hours of time. I can not express the ways that God reached out and touched me. Funny how such a short time really can make it seem like a weeks worth.

I CAN tell you, that when God tells you to go somewhere, and prompts you to step out from your comfort zone, so that HE can speak.........He doesn't disappoint.

I encourage you to find a conference near you during this season. They are coming, and man ol man is it worth it.

Back in the Saddle..........

2010-09-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

This week I got back in the Teaching Saddle ~ again............
(If I were savvy enough, I would have Gene Autry singing it to you.....)

Back in my life this week were: staff meetings, planning meetings, agendas, long range plans, room cleaning and decorating, and even Back to School Night.

This time around, I am not in my comfortable saddle of classroom teacher. Now, I am in a new saddle, one that hasn't been broken in, or worn in all the right places. Going back as an Educational Therapist is different. Much like Western and English saddles are different. Some things are VERY different, and some I just have to adjust.

I am excited to begin this year with new students, new expectations, and the launching of a whole new career. There is so much that is different and new, yet the comfort of some things that are the same. The smell of chalk and coffee are still a comfort. Excitement in the air, of fresh beginnings and a new school year, for everyone.

However, as great as this week has been. I am SUPER excited to be able to sleep in, enjoy the last taste of summer with my kids, and relax with friends and family. For Tuesday will be here before I know it, and the start of a breaking in this new saddle. Giddy-Up

Great is Thy Faithfulness..........

2010-08-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

Growing up I sang hymns when I visited my Grandmother's church. Something about them though always spoke such clear and simple truth that drew me in.

Then my hubby and I started dating and although the church we attended together still didn't sing hymns, when we attended church with his family, there they were. As an adult, I was introduced to BSF, if you know what that is......enough said about hymns, but I loved it.

Lately the Hymn that won't leave my mind is one of my favorites....."Great is Thy Faithfulness.." I have been singing it for almost a complete week. This morning on my run with the puppy, I realized the significance of why I have been singing it all week. It is because, if God is nothing else, He is Faithful. He is faithful in punishments that are promised and well deserved. He is faithful in blessings ~ promised or not, and usually never deserved. He is Faithful, in taking us to places we never would have considered, if it were left up to us, but not letting us fail either. He is Faithful to never leave us, forsake us, or stop loving us. He continues to be Faithful, even if and when we stop or falter in our own faithfulness.

What struck me this morning about God's Faithfulness, is that He is faithful for getting us through any situation. He IS there, whether or not we feel, see, or recognize it. His Faithfulness is also not limited to what it is that I want, but providing for me what I NEED. This is a huge difference. What I NEED is so much less, than what I may want.

As I prepare for the weekend, my prayer is that I continue to see more of His Faithfulness, for it is there.

Wonderful Week

2010-08-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

This week, Bubba has been away at camp. That means it has been a girly week all week focusing on Missy. For the first time she and I watched one of my absolute favorite movies, The Wizard of Oz. She LOVED it, and loves the soundtrack we downloaded.

We went to the beach with other moms and friends, where the kids played and the moms chatted. It was a wonderful afternoon, where I was having so much fun in the moment, that I forgot to take the camera out and capture the moment. Maybe, this was better to be part of it, instead of trying so hard to capture it. We saw a great,big, dark red jellyfish near the shore. We also enjoyed watching a California Sea Lion playing right by the pier.

We went to Disneyland with Nana and Papa, where she was Queen Bee and chose all of the rides and activities. We stayed in Adventureland the ENTIRE day, because it worked out that way, and we were having fun. We watched Pirates sing, and took our time on Tom Sawyer's Island. We did eventually leave Adventureland to head over to Princess Fan Faire, to hear not one, but two princess tell us stories. She was enchanted, and we were relaxed.

I introduced her to Beignets. Fresh, hot, wonderful pockets of sugary dough....... What started this adventure was a cookbook based on the Princess and the Frog, which she loves! We also visited the bathroom in this restaurant that is painted like a New Orleans Bayou and Swamp. Strange to have a bathroom as a destination, but she really loved it! The only downer here was we weren't in New Orleans with my beloved friend.

She had a play date with her two best friends from school. Here they are having lunch in their "Clubhouse". They did everything Girly.....painted nails, played Barbies, made jewelry for themselves and each other. They enjoyed summer as girls and the Three Musketeers that they are.

This morning we get to go pick up Bubba, and hear of his adventures. I have missed him, but I have enjoyed just being with her. I am looking forward to next week, when we go away as a family, enjoying summer before it ends.

Nightly Visitors

2010-08-05T10:58:00.000-07:00

We have nightly visitors. They play and flirt and entertain us.

This pair come every night, without fail.

They come for these. Luckily our yard is filled with these colorful explosions of blooms. The nector is sweet for our friends, and they are happy.

We eat here every night and enjoy the show. We hear them chitter and chatter, see them fly and flirt. We see them happy in our little slice of Heaven, and in return they make us happy.

Deployed..........

2010-08-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

Later this week, our brother is being deployed to Iraq. We have said our good-byes, and had fun at the family BBQ. It was a mix of tears, that the reality of his year long deployment brings to our family, and laughter, as we tried to keep things normal. There was lots and lots of laughter, and Wet Willy's ~ gross but a great tension breaker.
Missy LOVES her uncle that is never too busy to share a hug, push her on the swings, or avenge her against her teasing brother. One to help out when we need him, and one to be carefree on the trampoline with the kids.
Always one to bring a smile to Bubba, and helping train my son to be a stronger man. Funny that when I came into this family, this now man and soldier was younger than both of my kids. He was younger than Bubba in our wedding. They both share a love of Legos and he can be found on Bubba's floor with new creations they have quietly built together.
The baby of the family is now a soldier and a man. It is hard to see him as such especially when he is so carefree and easy going with the kids. We will miss him. I will miss him and pray for his safety daily.

Take me out to the Ball Game......

2010-08-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

The family at Petco Park, watching the Padres vs the Dodgers. This checks off one of Bubba's Summer bucket list items: to visit a different baseball park. As you can see, our efforts to not be in the sun, backfired a bit, as our seats and the day were chilly! Good thing we thought to bring jackets to a day game! This is So Cal for goodness sake, who would have thought? I didn't have a jacket, and hubby left his in the car, but I was SO glad I had jeans on, and that the kids were covered. Although we are still avid Angel's Fans, it was a great day watching amazing baseball.

Pure delight to a Mother's eyes. Bubba patiently explaining baseball to his sis, who frankly doesn't care right now. She was there for the snacks.

The hilarious Padre that dances around the stadium in between innings. This is the only baseball park, I have been to that has a Mascot that dresses up and gets the crowd going and excited. With a rivalry between the Padres and Dodgers who are battling for first place, it wasn't a hard day on the job for the Padre. We sure enjoyed his antics though.

Camera malfunction here, but the picture is worth a thousand words. We got to the stadium early to hopefully meet players and get our baseballs signed. This is Bubba getting his baseball back and having a conversation with the Padres' right fielder. Later in the game, we got to see this player make some amazing catches and plays. It was fun being able to personalize who it was with his signature in our hands. Missy didn't talk to him, but loved the experience all the same. Having the balls, on their respective nightstands and the gleam in their eyes when it was over: Priceless.

90

2010-07-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

Last week we had the extreme pleasure of wishing my Grandma a Happy 90th birthday. Her story is one that I treasure, since her story becomes our heritage. Born of immigrant parents who spoke only broken English, at their best. They refused to let any of the 10 children speak anything BUT English, so that they could "Be American". My grandparents were the rebels by moving WAY out to the west coast when my grandfather got transferred. The rest of the family still lives in the original 5 mile radius, in New York. She was the adventurer, the one who took risks, challenges when they came, and was always looking for the fun in a situation.

She is now the oldest of the siblings, and is the one who has lived the longest EVER in her family. We had an absolute wonderful time, being with family, eating, laughing, eating some more, and celebrating her. Then we ate again. Hey, we are Italian, it is what we do! Her youngest brother came out from New York, as did my cousin. It was magical having us all together for a couple of days.

Happy Birthday GG, we love you!!!

Drivers Start Your Engines.................

2010-07-08T13:10:00.001-07:00

The Official Logo for this year's VBS experience

My two race car drivers!

This week has been filled with Vacation Bible School! Oh how I love it!!! Since our church is in the middle of building our own building, and before that never had our own building, we visit the neighboring church and are invited to their VBS. Every year it is AMAZING!!! The stage that they transform to the coordinating theme.........The volunteers that dress the part, everyday. The work and effort that this church puts in is truly blessing to those they serve. This year 1100 kids are attending. They had to finally turn away some, for that age group was full. This church serves our community, and knows the definition of hospitality. They also have a gift for serving and teaching our children. I for one, am extremely thankful!

Goodbye Ol' Friend

2010-07-06T15:20:00.000-07:00

We bought this chair 10 days after Bubba was born. It instantly became my favorite chair, and most treasured baby item. Something about gliding, reading, singing, or just sleeping was soothing for us both. This is the place where I first read to my kids"Goodnight Moon", " Where the Wild Things Are," and "The Napping House". We have said countless prayers, sang a billion songs, and slept more hours than I can count in this chair. This chair became a haven for both of my kids as a safe calm place.

But alas, all good things come to an end. Now, when we read to Missy in the chair, her feet almost touch the ground. It isn't as comfortable with a "BIG" kid in the chair with you with long arms, long torso, and just long. So the chair has sat in Missy's room for a little over a year, being a haven for her babies and stuffed animals. But now it is time to move on. Both kids were kind of sad to see it go, for they have as many found memories as I do. However, a couple at church is expecting their first little one, and need a chair. So we said good-bye. We showed them where the treasure secret pillow can hide, making the chair THAT much more comfortable. It is good to bless someone else with a need, but there is part of me that is sad to see my friend go and be reminded that we don't have little ones anymore................

And the Winner Is.......

2010-07-02T14:29:00.001-07:00

Testing being done

Official Judges

New or Original.......Which would win

The other day while shopping for snacks to take to the beach, the kiddos found these NEW Oreos. This presents a conundrum in life. To have something NEW, usually is expanding on the old, or changing it. These (although you can't see the middle) are inside out Oreos. The cookie is vanilla and the center is chocolate! We thoroughly enjoyed them at the beach, but without the original to compare to, it left us wondering on which one is truly better.

Hence, today while giving the kiddos a snack, we had impromptu Taste Test. As you can see each "Judge" was given equal amounts of cookies and flavors, and the tasting began. It was funny to me, that although blindfolded, they each picked the New one first.

The Winner: The NEW Inside out Oreo. They both said that it was close, but the new ones aren't quite as sweet. Although an Oreo consumer for many many years, I have to agree. The 98 year old cookie, may have met its match this year.

15

2010-07-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

This is us before the Michael Buble Concert that he gave me for Christmas!

Fifteen years ago, I married my best friend. Back then I wasn't sure what real love was, because I think I was too young, and too dumb. We were "in-love" and that is all that mattered. Now, years later, I love this man more than I did back then. Except for now, I really truly LOVE him. We are on a roller coaster of life, and I am SO glad I am strapped in with him. I am still "in-love" with him, and LOVE him, which is that much sweeter. Happy Anniversary Babe!

A Job Well Done........

2010-06-29T09:14:00.001-07:00

True love with Build a Bear. She is my adventure Queen!

Of course his car is green ~ his favorite color. He was able to pick every accessory that he wanted for now, and customize his own car.

Sadly, you can't even see the TRUE soaking that happened. This is a teaser really.

My kids have worked REALLY, REALLY hard this year. When I went back to work that was adjustment #1. Going back to school, adjustment #2, and for Missy, going to school all day for kindergarten, was the biggest adjustment of all! Well, I quite honestly didn't know what to expect for this year according to grades. 3rd grade at our school is a HUGE jump from 2nd, as a Mom I was concerned for Bubba. How would he do, what could we expect, there was a lot of maturing that was expected and required from him. Then there was the start of kindergarten. Because we had already done this once, I was at peace with Missy going, but not sure how she would adjust. She is different from Bubba academically.

However, my kids shined!!! Yes, I am taking this moment to brag on my kids. They each learned the meaning of perseverance this year. They learned what it meant to really work, respectively on their own. The final report card for each of them was GLORIOUS!!! Truly I was amazed and proud of both of them.

So, Hubby and I decided that they deserved a bonus for all of their hard work. We took the kids to California Adventure, and let them make ALL of the decisions. They chose the rides, the shows, where and when to eat, EVERYTHING! I love days like these. It is fun to see them come up with compromises on their own, decide things together, and know that they have the run of the park. This meant that we rode on Grizzly Rapids ~ TWICE!!! WE go SOAKED!!! We played in the Redwood forest for a long time, just enjoying the play area. We ate pizza, popcorn, and indulged with Cotton Candy. Most important, was we laughed ~ a lot.

Then came the fun part.......Shopping!!! Bubba really wanted a remote control car that he got to build himself at Ride Makerz (think Build a Bear for boys). Missy split her money between Build a Bear and then saved some for American Girl store (future post to come). It was an incredible day spoiling our kids for all of their hard work.

Welcome Summer

2010-06-21T12:54:00.001-07:00

Ah Summer is officially here! Not only is it officially here by the calendar status, but it is also here because school is FINALLY over. This has been a year of growth for all of us. Yet, we have successfully finished Kindergarten for Missy, 3rd Grade for Bubba, and College for me. WHEW!! Now, we can relax, look forward to the days spent at the beach, and as of today get assigned new chores.

My Mama is a smart lady! Here is one of my tricks I am stealing from her. When we entered school, our primary job was school. So although we had chores, there were some that were lessened, or forgotten during the school year because our focus was school. Then came summer. With summer came extra responsibility so that we ALL could play. In her wisdom, there was NO need for her to be doing the primary share of the chores, when there were helpers who could help and who wanted to do fun things. So alas, every summer we either learned a new chore working toward independence or regained a chore that was set aside during the school year.

This summer Missy is learning to make her bed. She was very excited this morning when lessons started. It is going to be interesting to see her progress since she is the littlest member of the family with the tallest bed in the house. What a hoot!

Bubba is going to learn the domestic lesson of loading and unloading the dishwasher. Now because of the design of our kitchen, there may be some I have to help with if I want any dishes left at the end of summer. But for the most part he should be good, and able to reach.

I am looking forward to days spent by my brother's pool (since we don't have one). Setting up the slip and slide, going to the beach, having picnics in the backyard with the dog. We are attempting to have a movie screen set up in the backyard for nighttime showings of fun family flicks, with neighbors and friends. I am looking forward to friends coming to eat on the patio, and listening to the sweet music of our children playing. I need summer in more ways than one, and am very excited that it is finally here!

My Word........

2010-05-27T18:47:00.000-07:00

Months ago, many of you selected a word for the year 2010. In all honesty, I had never thought about selecting a word to focus on for an entire year. Well, leave it to God's sense of humor, apparently HE picked my word for me.

The last few months the word that keeps coming to mind, being put on my heart, and one that is whispered to me in my times of whining is:

PERSPECTIVE

Apparently, this is my word for the year, and it has changed me in a great deal. WE all whine. We all have situations in our lives that we feel are tough. They might be tough, but one thing I have realized is there is two different kinds of tough situations. The first kind, will only last a moment or for a season. Now while you are in that season, you may at many times feel like it is NEVER going to end, but it will and you in your inner most heart know it. Then there is the Earth shattering tough. The kind, that may never go away, will change your universe as you know it, and will grow you in your faith and outlook more than you ever could have imagined. Either situation that we face and want to whine and complain about takes perspective, for somewhere out there, in our not far distant circle are people whose situation is worse.

When I was little, and didn't want to finish my dinner, my Grandmother (GG to my kids now) would threaten to send it to the starving children in.................(fill in the blank, for she did!) It was hard as a child to imagine kids in a world and place I could hardly imagine starving. Yet, they were, and still are. Perspective comes into play more, when you aren't focusing on the kids in ................... but rather, on people you know or see in our world around us daily.

Here is a sample of what is to come on Perspective. My family was waiting in line at a Lego store for the free monthly build. It was hot, and sort of a long line. As my children were beginning to whine, be bored, and basically be kids, we turned the corner of the vinyl ropes containing the flow of the line. Behind us, now in our line of site was another family. They had several kids, and were just as hot and tired. However, as I stood observing this family, the Dad reaches in the backpack connected to his daughter's wheelchair (Perspective #1) and pulls out her feeding bag, and proceeded to "feed" his daughter. (Perspective #2). You see my attitude changed in an instant. At that moment, it didn't matter how hot, tired, bored, aggravated, or irritated I was with waiting. I have been blessed with two very healthy kids. They can walk, and eat on their own. Whatever I had to whine about, I heard a small voice saying "What would they say to your problems and whining. They would probably trade you in an instant.

My lessons on perspective are not all that drastic, but it is one that has stuck with me for the last month or so. There have been many lessons, which I don't know if I will share or not, and every week God seems to be showing me there are more. Next time you whine, I challenge you to take a look at perspective and I am confident you will find it.

Funny

2010-05-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

I carpool daily with my Sister in Law. It works for both of us. She does drop off and I bring the crew of children home.

The other morning, the kids were tired. I was tired. Because of life circumstances, I knew my SIL was tired. So I banked on her being a bit late in the morning. I let the kids sleep in for a bit. We didn't rush through breakfast. The kids were buying lunches that day, so nothing needed to be done on that front.

Then the phone rings. It is 7:40. Who could THAT be???? when I answered it was my brother announcing he was around the corner! He is 20 minutes earlier than my estimated and somewhat normal time for pick up. My response was:

HOLY COW!!! YIKES!!!!

(Okay in honesty that isn't really what went through my mind but you get the picture)

I run upstairs screaming as I am skipping stairs "Hurry! Hurry! Uncle Matt is HERE!!!!"

Bubba is naked in his room, not sure of what is happening but gets his rear in gear. Missy is right in front of me running moving as fast as six year old legs carry her. Literally as she is pulling pj's off, I am putting her clothes on. WE are a team. WE can get this done. We RUN to my room, and yank her hair in a ponytail. Off we rush for socks and shoes. Forget brushing of teeth, or bringing the extra stuff to school. WE are on a mission. The three of us clamor down stairs (giggling I might add). AS Bubba is putting on his shoes and hat (oh thank goodness for baseball caps!), Missy and I are putting on her shoes.

The three of us run out the door to the driveway, where my brother is waiting. Get kids buckled into the car and look at the time. In 5 minutes flat we went from leisure breakfast to dressed, and in the car. NOT too shabby for a Mama who was tired! My brother's response: "I didn't realize I was early, I thought I was on time!" OK, he was "on-time" and nice to his wife, but made me laugh all day long at the hilariousness of the morning.

HIp HIp Hooray!!!!

2010-04-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

YAHOO

HIP - HIP - HOORAY

WHO RAH

SKIPPY-DO

YIPPEE

WHEW

These are the emotions that I have felt the last week. You see, it is OFFICIAL!!! I am an officially Licensed NILD Educational Therapist. That is right. My score has been posted, my finals done, and now I wait patiently for the Postman to bring me my actual license that will one day hang in an office with my Name on it. These are the small things that I am so looking forward too!

One small step for some, one GINORMOUS leap for this Mama. I started this school year as a stay at home Mom. Then in October I started tutoring and seeing kids with reading needs at my children's school. Now, I am there almost full time, 4 days a week. I have 15 kids on my schedule with more coming as poor work notices go out next week, and parent / teacher conferences were today. The Principal already warned me that more are coming. What about therapy? Well, with 8 weeks left in the school year, it is a hard place to start manipulating their brains, so we wait until September. I have NO idea what next year will look like. I do know this: God has brought me through this leap of faith for a reason, and won't let down or dangle without purpose.

I am back, for those blogging friends, but with warning. Life is funny.......when crazy, it is CRAZY. When relaxed, it is peaceful. NO matter what the craziness I face today, I am at peace and that is the most important thing.

HUGE thanks and Hugs for the love, support, text messages, and even dinners!

Mawha!!!!

Light at the end........

2010-03-03T19:07:00.000-08:00

There is a light now at the end of my educational tunnel. This light will represent that I have completed the tasks necessary to become an intern! Wahooo!!! I won't be completely certified as an Educational Therapist for another 4 or 5 years, and two more levels of certification to go. Baby steps.

I have seen with my own eyes, what an educational therapist is capable of, given time. This is not a quick fix process, with a magic wand ~ don't I wish. It is slow, steady, and when given the time it needs extremely successful. Here is an extreme example that I am not qualified to do, but maybe one day.......Twin girls with Cerebral Palsy, when born the parents were told they would not talk, walk, or be able to function is society ~ ever. The parents wouldn't swallow that. They started them in EVERY kind of therapy as soon as the girls were old enough. They started educational therapy when they were 3 for 4 days a week. They are now seven. They read at and slightly above grade level. They walk on their own (the physical therapy and educational retraining the brain), they can write at slightly below grade level, but if given chance to verbalize ideas, they are incredibly smart. They comprehend what is said and done in a regular classroom, but have an aide for physical reasons. They are being written up in medical journals because as their physical therapist said "They are a miracle." I cried when they left their session because until I saw it with my own eyes, I wouldn't have believed it was possible.

I have learned a great deal on this journey. I have learned what it truly means to rely on God for strength and endurance. These are lessons I have dealt with before, but apparently I had gotten in the way, and needed to learn them yet again. I have learned the true definition of perseverance and how to live with it.

I have learned that taking classes at this level, working basically full time, and running my family with all of life still happening is stressful, and FULL. During this process, 3 of the 4 birthdays in our family have occurred. Missy's is the last and is right as finals and a DVD showing techniques is due ~ yikes. I have learned to respect those professions that regularly call a parent away for a time, to have them home, only to be called away again ~ like firefighters. I had to learn how to keep the suitcase packed and the beauty products, since I was only home for three days before leaving yet again.

I have relearned the true learning process. To celebrate the small victories, keep your eye on the prize, and truly learn from mistakes so they don't occur again. I had to swallow the hunk of pride, and relearn defeat and what my response to that was going to be. How was I going to recover and pick myself back up and be back in the game before break was over.

This is a journey, and like others, the path continues for a short while before a break. I am looking forward to being able to catch my breath, take a drink, and regroup before going down the next path around the corner.

Thank you all for your encouraging words, e-mails, voicemail, and dinners. You have been part of my journey and they have all come, when I couldn't do anymore and needed help or encouragement. Now off, to get back on my current path until I am DONE..................

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

One of the days, that I ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY, down to the core of who I am,

LOVE LOVE LOVE

VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!

I haven't been the greatest this year like some, ahem Lady Dunbar. But I am trying. Tonight we are keeping the tradition of Family Valentine. The table will be set, with the finest china, and glasses for all. The only light will come from candles, and there will be music streaming from the ipod nestled on the counter of the kitchen (Thanks for the reminder Cathy). Then tomorrow we get to keep the tradition set by some loved friends, and have Valentines surrounded by other marriages that support us and love us.

However, this year I pose this challenge: LOVE your Valentine. Simple and yet hard I know, but seriously. It doesn't have to be expensive, or fancy, or super elaborate, but I think now more than ever we need to celebrate our marriages. We made a promise to these men, to love, honor, and cherish them, until death do us part. I know of too many marriages right now that are crumbling or about to. I can't help but think that if we put work and effort into our marriages like we do when we are happiest on this weekend, we might be able to fight off the enemy. So I for one, am picking up the pieces of a stressful life and going to make my HONEY and little cupids some dinner. We will probably watch Charley Brown Valentine, and snuggle on the couch or make Big Bed. Not glamorous, but I hope they feel the love. NOW go love on your cupids.

P.S. When I am stressed out, I like to cook. I mean COOK. So following is a menu idea in case you are stumped for ideas, for Valentines, or any other night. Seriously can be done quick and easy, but the rewards are GREAT!

Menu Idea:

Tri-tip (premarinated from Costco)

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: (They are from the box. Add 1/3 cup sour cream for every 4 servings and shredded cheese. Follow cooking instructions without adding time. For super fancy add French Onions around rim and bake until they are golden)

Dinner Rolls (mine are homemade, but I am super stressed! Pillsbury Grands are great too)

Salad (Hubby picking it up at store right now)

Brownies for dessert (cut with a heart shaped cookie cutter for cute factor)

Wine: Whatever your fancy

9

2010-02-07T08:59:00.001-08:00

The puppy wants to be in on the celebration of Bubba's birthday. In a sense, they both got presents that night! He LOVES to shred paper.

( Picture taken by Missy: age 5)

This weekend, my "Little Guy" turned 9. He has grown so much in so many ways. This past year was a big one. A year of maturing, gaining a more developed sense of humor, and most importantly growing in his Faith. I couldn't be prouder of this guy, and wish there was a way to keep him 5 forever.

Missy picked this gift out herself. This is how she shows her brother love ~ Star Wars! He loved it and loved that she was so proud of it. He even busted out his other sets, which are going to be outgrown sooner than I like, and played with her. She got all the girl figures and some Ewoks. IT was too cute. I absolutely love the way they love each other.

Lemonade........

2010-02-03T10:19:00.000-08:00

A blogging friend has made her entire blog about taking lemons and making Lemonade.......http://sashabrodeur.blogspot.com/.............

This has got me thinking A LOT lately. What strikes me about Lemonade, is the time it takes time to make it. You can not simply look at lemons on your counter or in your cute bowl and Wahlah, Lemonade. NO, it takes a bit of time and effort. This is also how I work through my feelings and emotions, with time and effort. Otherwise what I find myself doing is reacting too quickly and getting impatient, and my reward: a big ol' mouthful of sour lemon juice with extra bitterness! So I am working on changing that.

When I am stressed out that both kids are home sick, my Lemonade: extra time to get homework done for me!

Bubba's birthday is fast approaching and I am not exactly ready, my Lemonade: Family and friends who are running around town for me buying food, baggies, and whatnot because they are out and about, and I am not.

No idea what to make for dinner because I am too sick and there is SO much else to do, my Lemonade: Friends who help me order it, or family who brings it over

There is a lot right now, that I could choose to be bitter, angry, or selfish about. However, I am going to choose to take my time in reacting, add a LOT of sugar, and make the best darn LEMONADE, that God would be proud of. After all, HE is our final taste tester, and who wants to be found bitter?

Go ahead and laugh......

2010-01-15T11:28:00.001-08:00

Here is a small list of what Ditsy things I did this week. Call it school brain, hormones, lack of sleep, not enough Starbucks......whatever. Have a laugh at my expense. Trust me, I did because if I DIDN'T laugh, I probably would have cried. Happy Friday y'all.

Put on Night cream instead of regular moisturizer in the morning (oily face all day)
Forgot mascara ~ twice
Put coffee in microwave for a warm up, went and started a quiz I had to take and never went back for the coffee
Didn't see or comprehend the specific instructions for seeing Bubba do his oral presentation for his HUGE history project. The instructions were right above where I have to sign my name! Thank goodness, his teacher is gracious and kind.
Put on different socks
ALMOST sent my kids to school with EMPTY lunch boxes
Looked at lunchboxes and forgot what I was doing ~ DUH!!!
Had to ask 3 times what time Missy's parade started, when I work at the school and it is posted.
Can't tell you how many times, I walked into the office, and had NO IDEA what I was doing there, or who I needed to talk to.
"Made" rice for dinner side dish, but turned the stove off instead of on low. Pitched the rice in the trash and had the kids fill up on carrots and popcorn.

Amazing..........

2010-01-09T09:25:00.000-08:00

My hubby came home from work yesterday and told me to close my eyes. Then he told me to smell into a bag. What wafted to my senses was the amazing and delicious smell of my absolutely favorite thing: Beignets!!!

I fell in love with this tasty and delicious treat while visiting my friend in New Orleans. I have sought them out where ever I can find them since. There is a popular place in Disneyland that has pretty much the original thing, and I get them when we eat there. If you have seen the move The Princess and the Frog ~ oh yeah, they are THAT good, as the movie depicts!!! The best place though is still the Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter of New Orleans ~ AMAZING!

Why would my hubby do this you might ask? Is it our anniversary? Birthday? NO!!! He did it because there is a new New Orleans style restaurant by his office, and because I finished my first week of school. He did it because he said :"I am proud of you and your efforts this week." He is AMAZING!!!!! Oh, and in case you are wondering ~ yes I shared!!!!

Snow Day

2010-01-02T17:35:00.000-08:00

My little Angel, making her first snow angel.

The first race down the hill. It ended in a tie, with LOTS and LOTS of giggles

The kids were so excited about new sleds that they HAD to try them out the night before on the grass. Surprisingly, it worked fairly well and added to the excitment for the next day.

Okay, so I accidentally just lied. Sorry. However, my dear, sweet, honest friend Irene tells me that I don't post enough pictures. So here you go! This is our first snow day as a family. Missy by far was the best outfitted and warm, but Bubba was right behind her. Just so you know Scotchguard works fairly well for a day in the snow and waterproofing your pants and jackets. Rainboots with several pairs of socks, work well for makeshift snow boots. Laughing every time your Honey lands into a tree or bush.......Priceless!!!

Good-bye for now

2010-01-01T16:54:00.000-08:00

The dawn of a new year is always exciting to me. This year brings on an old adventure spun in a new light for me and my family. I am starting back to school. After finishing my last bout with school, I never thought I would hike that particular path again. However, as of last Sunday, I am officially back on the trail and trudging along.

After church last week, I decided to go on the school's web-site and check on my class. I knew that there was at least one book I still needed to order before classes begin next week. What I wasn't expecting was the news, that I need to read a book BEFORE official classes start. Did I have the book? NO. Was I prepared to jump in like this? NO. Did I freak out???? YOU BET!!
So thankfully, I had a moment of wonderful Internet service in order to order my books from Barnes and Noble. The books came on Wednesday, which gives me four glorious days to read and then prepare a paper.

So in light of all of this, I am saying good-bye for now on blogging. I will try and use all of you for distractions from the studying awaiting for me, and possibly leave you some comments. Hopefully in the spring, like the flowers I will bloom again. In the spring, I hope to come away with the start of a new degree, the first part a license for teaching students with special needs, and most importantly a renewed understanding in how God brings us through the adventures and hikes He has mapped out for us.

Correction....

2009-12-11T06:04:00.000-08:00

I feel like I am writing for our town's newspaper and need to submit a correction. Actually, maybe better stated a clarification.......

Yesterday's events were horrific. Thankfully, they are NOT as bad as we have seen in our house. OY!!! I digress....... Anyway, yesterday Bubba did retrieve the ball out of the tree. Then being an eight year old boy, he was going to throw it again for his puppy. Puppy being a knuckle headed goofball of a dog, with an extremely large blockhead jumped up in excitement and smashed into my son's face. That is how the said gruesome story unfolded. Even though our dog has worn a cape a time or two, to become Underdog, or Super Puppy he does not have flying abilities ~ yet. He does have great jumping abilities.

This isn't our first collision with puppy trying to do good gone wrong, and something tells me it won't be our last. However, Bubba was cheerful about it today until the recess duty teacher told him he couldn't play soccer. That tore my son's heart right open and wounded him more than the physical pain he is in. She wasn't willing to risk additional trauma to the mouth, and there is part of me who agrees, and a VERY big part of me that almost cried with my little guy.

He came home and played soccer with his dog.

Took the Plunge

2009-12-10T07:49:00.000-08:00

Just like the Nestea guy, I took the plunge. After MUCH deliberating, praying, discussing, meeting, observing, and more prayer, we decided for me to take the plunge and apply to:

GO BACK TO SCHOOL

Yep, I am going to hopefully hit the books, log in on-line, and in the end become an Educational Therapist. What is that????? Yeah, I had NO idea either. Basically it is a Special Ed teacher at the kid's school using the Discovery method from NILD.

So I sent in my application, and they received it in headquarters yesterday (thanks certified mail!). So now I wait, and find out what the verdict is. If accepted, I would be extremely excited, scared, and anxious. But mostly, EXCITED!!! If rejected, I will be sad, disappointed, and confused as to where God is putting me for next year. If accepted, school starts January 4th. Nothing like last minute here!!! Will keep you posted.

Additition problem......

2009-12-09T19:13:00.000-08:00

What do you get when you add one boy playing ball, one puppy who wants the ball, and one tree? The answer in my world: is an EMERGENCY trip to the Dentist, to see if the hospital is next!

Yep, that was my afternoon. I had sent Bubba outside to play with the puppy. It makes them both happier come homework time. He had just checked in with me, and told me about the NFL kick that put the ball in the tree. I being a responsible parent, told him to retrieve the said ball and then come in and finish homework. We have a BIG report due tomorrow after all. What do I hear as doing homework with Missy? THE BLOOD CURDLING SCREAM!!!! I run outside to find my son with a bloody face. After rushing him to the kitchen, and applying pressure, I soon realized this was worse than I feared. I called the dentist, and he said come right down.

We sped down to the dentist.....figured if I got pulled over, they could look in the back at WHY I was speeding. We got right in at the dental office. WHEW!! The dentist looked at his mouth and lips, and assessed that we just barely made it to the point of NO stitches. Bub's braces actually helped save his teeth from being too damaged. His lip will heal, as will the cut in his mouth, but it looks NASTY. Just know this, because I value you, I saved you from the gore of pictures. Should be interesting tomorrow at school.

When we got home, Koda was VERY sorry and laid at Bubba's feet while he did the homework and finished his report. He even gave Bubba an "I AM sorry" slobbery kiss which made Bubba giggle.

Whew.....!

2009-12-08T19:08:00.000-08:00

I am a rule follower. THAT is a big part of who I am. Last week, I was told, by Federal Jury duty cyber phone voice, that I was not to call in again until Sunday night. So.....Sunday night I called in, only to be told by cyber woman, that I was to report for jury duty at 7:45 on Tuesday, December 8th and to call back on Monday night for further instructions. YIKES!!! However, I was excited that at least I had a day's notice to prepare for my day. I could arrange for childcare, make sure that the kids on my caseload were prepared that I wasn't coming, and basically get ready for what may come.

Monday night, I called back like instructed. Then much to my amazement, the cyber voice said "Thank you for your time, your jury services has been fulfilled. You do not need to report for the rest of the week." Hear the Hallelujah Chorus? Do you hear the trumpets, horns, and tambourines? I sure did after listening to the message for a second time.

So after preparing my kids, my students, and the teachers I work with, that I WOULDN'T be there today, I showed up. I serviced my kids like normal, and had a great Tuesday.

Hope your day was just as happy!

Christmas Tradition...........

2009-12-07T19:12:00.000-08:00

I try every year to read a Christmas book at Christmas time. I was a great thematic teacher, can you tell? Anyway, this is one of my ABSOLUTE favorites. I love the Herdmans and their funny antics. I love that you never really know the kid telling the story. I love that the true meaning of Christmas is there the entire time. I especially learned to love this book one year, when Mr. C. and I were early marrieds, and he had never read it, so we read it out loud to each other. I value this book, when I forget that there are real Herdmans out there, no matter what town or school you go to, and they need love too. If you need a good Christmas read, one that brings the little ones to giggle too.......Enjoy this one! This year I get the privilege of enjoying this book with Bubba, as his class is reading it together. I can't wait for story time tonight!

Did you know......

2009-12-01T21:02:00.001-08:00

Did you know, that if you are summoned for FEDERAL Jury Duty, that it last for

TWO STINKING WEEKS???

YIKES!!! Yep, guess who has it??? That is right my friends! So on top of trying to work, Christmas shop, see my family, go to Soccer playoffs (yeah Bubba!!!), orthodontist appointments, dental cleaning for me, etc.......every night I have a date with my phone to see if I frantically need to rearrange my schedule, or miss Parent/Teacher conferences because of jury duty.

WHO KNEW?

So for those of you out there, who complain about the week long process, I have just had my own bubble burst and found out that yes, there are indeed worse scenarios out there!

I am whining I know, but that is all I have right now ~ sorry!

Priceless......

2009-11-24T08:23:00.000-08:00

May I introduce to you........the cookie sheet! If your little boys, or bigger boys for that matter are into Legos then you know the problem that comes with them. There are several little bags in every box, and within those bags are what seem to be a bazillion pieces. So to conquer this problem for my Lego men in my house, I gave them a cookie sheet. This is a way that they can move their creations off of the dinning room table and not loose a piece. The cookie sheet provides nice sides, so the pieces don't roll off. If the cookie sheet gets bumped, the pieces generally are safe, and you can even transport in the car safely creations. Price of cookie sheet ~ 99 cents at the 99cent store. Price of not stepping on those little pieces ~ priceless!

And for the girlie girls in our houses......the cookie sheet reigns again. If your little girl is into magnetic paper dolls....they stick beautifully to the cookie sheet, and keep the refrigerator clear from paper dresses and princess that a big puppy might like to eat (ahem Koda!) Also allows for it to go in the car, for rides to Grandma's, soccer games, or where ever we are off to! Price of little princesses creating glorious outfits, and not loosing shoes ~ priceless!

Ode to Koda

2009-11-23T05:08:00.000-08:00

This is Koda, our now full grown (or almost) puppy. We brought him home a year ago today (the much smaller version of him.)

He loves my parent's dog Hailey when she comes over to play and snuggle

Here he is about three months old, and growing like a weed. He still loves to cuddle with a blankie. Exactly like the human puppies in my family. He fits right in.

A week after we brought him home, and winning our hearts over with that face. That face still keeps him out of getting in major trouble. And he knows it!

We first fell in love when we found this puppy. He is ten days old, his eyes are still closed, and his ears are smaller than my thumb nail. We didn't know at the time he would grow to be close to 100 pounds, or a complete goofball. However, we wouldn't change the way it all worked out. This is when Bubba fell in love, holding this puppy sealed the deal on which one he wanted to bring home in several weeks. Do you see that face? He is part of our family. I can't believe that it has been a year. What a complete blessing he is.

Practical Hypocrite

2009-11-22T16:58:00.001-08:00

So a while ago I posted my soapbox about starting things Christmas TOO early. I still stand by those statements. However, here is my confession..........

I am guilty of being a practical Hypocrite.

Last week we took the family to California Adventure, since the kids had the day off. While there, we did indeed see Santa sitting in his gazebo, waiting for the next kid in line. The line was all of ONE family. Mr. C. looked at me, I at him, and we both agreed to take the plunge. When would we be at Disneyland again or California Adventure and virtually have NO wait? So he talked to the kids, he made Missy giggle, and we took our family photo. If nothing else, I am a practical Mom. I do see the opportunity and grab it! I apologize for my hypocritical ways, but as fellow Moms, I hope you would do the same. Carpi Diem and all of that ;)

The Sweetest Words EVER!!!

2009-11-15T17:54:00.000-08:00

The sweetest words a parent of a missing child can hear is: "I have her!!! I have her!!! SHE is here with me. Come and get her." These are the words that my friend got to hear after her four year old walked away from the family at the soccer fields. After being able to witness the reunion of Mom and child (still bringing tears to my eyes by the way), I began to seriously ponder.......

God must feel the same way when HE receives this message. The Holy Spirit or Christ comes across the phone and says :"WE have her. She is now safe. She is now here." You see, I don't often think of myself as a child, why would I? But that is indeed what I am . I am a child of God.

Yet after this event, it occurred to me how many times I have wondered away from my Heavenly Father. Not super far, still where my Heavenly Father can find me, and me HIM, but wondered. Chasing butterflies, off in my own mind, seeking things that I think I need to go after, only to be drawn further away from HIM. I have created the need to be found. You see, the child in this story wasn't intentionally trying to give her parents the fear of their lives and a heart attack. She was being four, and allowed herself to get distracted and wonder further than she thought she was. But I have been guilty of the same thing.

The beauty of this story, and the spiritual tie, is that my friend was not angry, she was just happy to have her lovely girl back in her arms. The prodigal son, has the same ending - rejoicing of the lost one found. Looking back, I shamefully have wondered on more than one occasion, yet received the forgiveness and hugs of coming back to where I belong. I hope that after experiencing this with my friend, I will learn the lesson before I wonder again. Somehow now that I am a parent myself, the story of the prodigal son has new meaning.

Thank You

2009-11-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

To all the Veteran's out there,

THANK YOU.

These two words do not seem enough to say, yet that is all I know. You do a job, I physically can not do. You protect me from things I don't know about, and for the ones I do, that scares me enough. You serve those who don't appreciate you, and for those who do. You carry our country's safety on your shoulders, and take that responsibility with a seriousness most of us don't even see a glimmer of. Thank you for those who have served in the past, the present, and for the boys who are dreaming of the job for the future.

I Want to Be.......

2009-11-10T17:57:00.000-08:00

I had the Under Roos at the age of 6 or so. She was so cool! Bullet reflector bracelets, red boots, reflector and weather proof hair, an invisible plane.....the list goes on and on. Who wouldn't want to be Wonder Woman today?

If I WERE able to be Wonder Woman.......I would be able to work a full week as the teacher of first grade and come home with energy, with complete patience for my own family. I would be able to pull together delicious meals every night this week, instead of banana pancakes that are on the menu tonight. I would have had something brewing in the Crock Pot all day, so our home would smell wonderful upon the arrival of the family and hubby coming home. The laundry would be done folded, and put away. The house would be clean and the garden freshly spruced up. In the mornings, I wouldn't be cranky and urging my kids out the door, unusually and possibly ungodly early. My hair, nails, and make-up would be flawless. Traffic, smaffic as I sailed with five kids in the invisible plane over drivers who can't drive. I could save people from the injustices in the world, and still have time to buy that birthday present I need by Thursday. Oh, I would be unstoppable!

Since, the job has already been filled, I guess I will take one day at a time. I will do the best with what I have, and I will be a Philippians 4:13 Mom ~ doing all things through Christ who strengthens me. Can't really ask for more than that. Her accessories would be cool though, especially the plane!

Righteous Anger........

2009-11-04T10:02:00.000-08:00

I have a confession.........

This week, I got angry at stores. Here is my story of what I feel to be a righteous anger.

1.) I am shopping in Michael's, looking for some lovely paper to adorn these invitations I was commissioned to make. As I am looking for glittered paper, I hear over the speakers "Jingle Bells" and then "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree". This happened on November 2nd!!! I understand that Halloween is officially over, and that the Christmas paraphernalia needs to go up, especially in a craft store, but REALLY???? it is the BEGINNING of November.

2.) The very next day, was a doozy. Mr. C. had to get up at 4:45 for an exceptionally early flight to our states capital. Then because of the loveliness of time change, Missy got up at 5:45! I couldn't go back to sleep, so I got my day started. I will save you the roller coaster of things that went wrong yesterday morning, but I WAS looking forward to heading to Starbucks, meeting my friend to give her the invitations, and get the MUCH NEEDED coffee. The girl behind the counter, welcomes me friendly. I feel a wave of relaxation coming my way......ahhhhhhhh. The smell of coffee is in the air! Then she says the words that stop me in my clouded thinking....." We now have the Gingerbread and Eggnog lattes, if you would like today." I was shocked. I am not ready for Christmas flavors. So to my credit, very calmly I replied "Oh, no thank you it is still November, I need those flavors in December and January. I would like a pumpkin spice latte please." I know that this flavor is expensive (I know Mrs. Dunbar, I know) but it was a matter of NEED, not WANT on this particular morning.

When I worked at Nordstrom there was a sign that went on every branch of the store during November: They celebrate Thanksgiving and use it as a time TO GIVE THANKS! Here is a copy of the Michigan Journal, that applauds Nordstrom as well, and wraps up my thinking in general! Let me give out a WOOT WOOT to Pete Nordstrom!

"Tis the season to be jolly." Though the words of the popular Christmas carol are well known, many Americans have long forgotten the time span for the actual Christmas season.Surrounded by much controversy, Christmastime has no definite start or finish. Beginning as early as Columbus Day when temperatures are still in the high 60s and lasting until late January when people finally figure out that throwing the extremely dead (not to mention fire-hazardous) Christmas tree to the curb would be a good idea, Christmas seems to be a season just like spring or fall. Fortunately, for consumers sick of being bombarded with irritating Christmas decorations, there is a safe haven.We at The Michigan Journal wish to applaud the department store, Nordstrom. Separating itself from its competitors, Nordstrom stores are not Christmas clad until the day after Thanksgiving. "We believe in celebrating each holiday in its entirety before moving on to the next one," said Nordstrom spokesman John Baily in an interview with The New York Times. At the entrance of each Nordstrom store, customers can spot a sign announcing Nordstrom's commitment to wait until after Thanksgiving to decorate. Considered a breath of fresh air for consumers tired of being overrun by the early onset of Christmas decorations, people have taken notice of the bold statement. Pete Nordstrom, the president of Nordstrom department stores, admits, "I don't know of anything that we do that gets more favorable customer feedback."With such considerable support, one might wonder why other department stores do not follow in Nordstrom's footsteps. Representatives from Bloomingdales noted that their elaborate Christmas displays take time to set up, causing the department stores to start the decorating process long before Thanksgiving. "It's not like decorating your tree at home or your little vestibule. The New York store is close to a million square feet," said Joe Catugno, Bloomingdale's vice president for visual merchandising.Though the decorating process is time consuming, we at The Michigan Journal think it is no excuse. If Nordstrom can manage to decorate after closing on Wednesday to be ready for Black Friday, other department stores should be able to do the same. We appreciate the effort made by the department store and look forward to their appropriately timed 108th unveiling of Christmas decorations.

Gobble Up Dinner for Your Gobblins.......

2009-10-30T06:22:00.000-07:00

So for Halloween the last few years this has been our adult menu: Kids get something like grilled cheese so that it won't ruin a costume before heading out for the good stuff!

Beef stew and the ever famous, Beer Bread!

(If I had sound effects, you would hear trumpets!)

Now, I will pretend that you all, say: "Trick or Treat," and I will give you the recipes. Even if you don't use them this weekend, they are tasty for a cold night. Hope you and your families have safe and fun weekends, whatever is in store for you.

Beef Stew, the EASY way:

2 Tablespoons all purpose flour

1 pound beef stew meat

2 tablespoons cooking oil
3 1/2 cups V8 (weird I know, but go with me on this)

3 1/2 cups water

1/2 cup chopped onion

2 teaspoons beef bouillon granules

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

2 1/4 cups cubed and peeled potatoes

2 cups sliced carrots

1 cup celery

Barley to taste

Place flour in a plastic bag. Add meat cubes, a few at a time, shaking to coat. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven brown meat, half at a time, in hot oil. Return meat to saucepan. Add V8 and water, onion and rest of ingredients to thyme. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover, simmer 1 to 1 1/4 hours. Add potatoes, carrots, and celery (barley if you choose). Cover, simmer 30 minutes more. Skim fat. Makes 4 servings, but is easy to double, triple, whatever!

And now friends, the moment you have been reading for........

The recipe for Beer Bread!!!!

(drum roll beating, trumpets blaring, and I wish I had a magic wand!!!)

If I am going to wish, why not big???

3 cups flour

3 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 tsp salt
12 ounces of beer at room temperature ~ the cheaper the beer the better the rise, not sure why....but true

Preheat oven to 375. Oil a loaf pan Combine all dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon, mixing in beer last. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until nice and golden on top. If baking in a stone loaf pan 40 minutes is perfect. Let cool in pan for about 10 minutes, and then cool completely out of pan on rack before cutting (if you can wait that long!) Serve with plenty of butter, honey is great, peanut butter in the morning is awesome....best served with friends and beer! Enjoy, and if my friends who live around me are reading this....invite me over for some ;)

Also....go check out Lemonade Makin Mama for her post about some amazing cookies, now you have dinner and dessert! YUM!!!

Highly Recommended

2009-10-29T12:18:00.000-07:00

If anyone pays attention to my reading list, you will notice a lot of books by D. Henderson. Can I just say that I lOVE her books? The series that I have been reading is called the O'Malley series. What ties the books together, is that each of the O'Malleys are siblings, who all have these wonderful jobs. There is action, romance, unpredictable outcomes, and what I love most, is the undeniable TRUTH that she preaches within every story. Each character, has their moments of unbelief in God and His abilities. But they also have their triumphs and realization that HE is there, taking care of them. There is a prequel to the O'Malley series called: Danger in the Shadows, a great place to start, but you don't have to read it first per say (although highly recommended). In fact, my Mom has read the books out of order on accident, and it hasn't impaired her love of the series. She did however comment that you loose a bit of the history of relationships going out of order.

Dee Henderson's other books are just as good, hold just as much suspense, and preach just as much truth. If you need a good read, here is a great place to start!

Tuesday's Treasure ~ Field Trip

2009-10-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

There are 60 student in the third grade at Bubba's school. There is a large majority who are stay at home Mamas. SO....when there is a

field trip, you can imagine the chaos of all of us who want to go and experience the trip with our young'ins. Well, guess WHO got picked???? I am so excited!!!

Not only was I picked, but my Sister in Law was also picked from my niece's class. This is just an added bonus as I won't have to drive up by myself, and our car will stop at Starbucks on the way, and still beat the bus. This Mama doesn't do school buses on a mountain road ~ sorry.

We are going on a hayride, and gonna learn about the colonial era, and how they lived. We will pick apples and eat our lunch in the shade of the apple trees. Not only am I excited about going on the trip itself, but I am especially excited to spend the day with my Bubba, and enjoy him and his friends.

An added bonus.......with my tutoring job, I just have to rearrange my calendar and schedule and I am being encouraged to go enjoy the day. What a tremendous blessing!!!!

Time Flies........

2009-10-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

When we are young we learn the principle of time. There are 60 seconds in a minute, 60 minutes in an hour, and 24 hours in a day. It is the simple concept of there being 7 days in a week, and 4 weeks in a month, 12 months in a year.

What I do not understand sometimes, is how can it be Monday again? How exactly did the laundry pile up so fast? Where did the week go?????? How is it, that life is so busy, that I am catching up on blogs instead of feeling connected from the blogs? How exactly did it happen that I haven't posted in a week, when there have been multiple posts in my head?

I am at a loss, and I think my laundry is making babies. I just wish the babies where free clothes in my kids sizes ~ one can dream right?

Tuesday's Treasure

2009-10-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

My treasure this week is friendships.....

Lately I have been reminded at just how blessed I am with the friends that I have been given. I am not talking about the superficial friends, but the real deal. The friends you call (or your kids call) when your house almost burns down (not my story, but you know who you are). The friends you call, when life goes for the major roller coaster ride. The ones who invite you over for dinner, and it is leftovers. The people who arrive in sweats at your house. When you call on the phone, it probably means you will spend some of your time talking to the munchkins as well. They were there for weddings, kids birth, and the new puppy, because it was happening in life. The friends that are with you for more time than you can remember...........and you can't imagine your world without them, wherever they are.

We were blessed to visit with some of these friends last weekend. We have known the Brunners for 15 years now. We haven't seen each other in 6 years. They got to come to our neck of the woods for a conference he needed to attend. Given the opportunity to 1) hang out with them and 2) go to the Beach, my Honey and I were there! We had a great time reconnecting about the new things in life, and laughing at the old memories.

What I love about true friends is this: the time lapse doesn't matter, for when you are together, it is as if you were never apart. For that moment, all is right in the world for you are together.

Smooches and Hugs to my friends, for I love you all!

Happy Hula Friday

2009-10-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

Today was Hawaiian dress up day at the school. Fitting, because true to our fall weather, today is 98 degrees, NO kidding. It seemed fitting that my kids go to school in these outfits in this weather, when earlier this week, we were wearing rain coats and sweaters. This however is my mood for today. Ahhhhh, to be on the beach hearing the waves, being served a tasty beverage by a cabana boy........that is where I am mentally. I hope you have an Aloha spirit of a weekend, and relax.

Cleaning Blessings........

2009-10-15T17:26:00.001-07:00

So as most of you know, I have entered BACK into the work world of Reading Specialist. I cannot express how much I LOVE this job!!!! Truly this is a GINORMOUS blessing. As of right now, I have two kids on my case load (soon to be three). This is what that looks like: Tuesdays and Thursdays, I arrive at the school at 1pm. I tutor one student, have a clean up break, go and tutor another student. When I am cleaned up from that, I go and pick up my kids, and we all go home with nothing to do but homework, snacks, get dinner etc..........

Here was my dilemma..........I was carrying too much stuff! So in my "Why didn't I think of this sooner, Knucklehead!" wisdom, I found my old briefcase. It was like finding an old friend. It was given to me when I first started student teaching.....and carried me through my career. I love that case, it still is perfect and exactly what I needed.

But alas, it needed to be cleaned out, and dusted (ack!!!). When cleaning it out, I giggled at some of my finds. Random notes, cards from flowers that Mr. C. sent me on the last day of school (every year), you know......STUFF. With the exception of the cards from my Honey, most of it quite honestly was trash. Why I kept it, was pure laziness on my part. But then I found...........

MONEY!!!!!

Oh, man did I find money!!!! Lots, and lots, and lots of coins. Now you might be thinking that I am off my rocker at this point, but here is the short story.....

When the kids would turn in their book order, a lot of the times it was in the form of coins. So I created an envelope to stash it in for sodas after school, and meetings that we were required to attend (great planning on my part!) Well, the stash grew, and grew after 8 years of teaching. I don't drink THAT much soda. So apparently when cleaning out my filing cabinet on the last day, I put the coins in my bag, came home and forgot about it. I forgot about $27 dollars and some change to be exact!! That is a lot of quarters. So to celebrate, I am going shopping for a new top or something to wear to work, using my new funds. I know it won't get me much, but the thought of using money that was found is a blessing in itself. Maybe I should clean out my stuff more often. Who knows what I might find!

Ahh....Fall is here

2009-10-14T11:09:00.000-07:00

Fall is officially here. We have had rain, cold mornings and colder evenings. Soccer is in full swing, and school is finally caught up after the "illness". This is what I am thankful for this week. Pumpkins on porches, a nip in the air, and the feeling that the season is finally changing around here. If you need a Mrs. C recipe for dinner tonight or another cold night, go to Lady Dunbar, where she posts one of my "Quickie Dinners". Seriously friends, it is NOT hard, but I get A LOT of credit for it :)

Flu, Flu Go Away...........

2009-09-30T15:45:00.000-07:00

My household is the NyQuil commercial. We are the sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, stuffy head, fever, and can't go to school family. The bonus is that Mr. C. has yet to get it! HOW????? I am baffled, he has cuddled us all, wiped noses, and most likely been coughed in the face ~ yet he is healthy. Right now I covet his healthiness. I have my suspicions on WHAT we have exactly, but I am too chicken to go to the doctor for a blood test. There are 4 kids in Bubba's class out with it. 1/3 of my nephew's class was out last week (including my nephew). Missy's class is overwhelmed with it too. I just want it to end. Anyone want to come for a visit?????

Mirror, Mirror...........

2009-09-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

We have all heard it said, and quite possibly said it ourselves either out loud or in our head

"Mirror, Mirror

on the wall,

Whose the fairest

one of all?"

If we look at the Creator of the mirror, our answer is staring right back at us.

We were listening to Missy recite her creation rhymes that go with her artwork that she brought home. At the end of every rhyme (and verse in Genesis for that matter) it ends with ......and He saw that it was GOOD. Not "Oh I am in a hurry, this will have to do". Definitely not "OOPS! Sorry" No where near, "Oh Dear, I screwed THAT one up" or even "This isn't worthy of anything, I need a trash can." NO, God said at the end of HIS creations that it was GOOD.

This means quite simply that if we believe that God created us, then we are considered GOOD. If we take our faith one step further, and believe in our heart of hearts, that we are created in HIS image, then the adjective of GOOD, doesn't even come close. For we are the FAIREST in the land.

Yet, we believe the lie that Satan wants us to believe. We believe and tell ourselves that we don't measure up. We don't fit into size (x) clothing, or weight (x) amount. Our hair is too curly, or not curly enough. We are either too tall, or too short. We have the wrong size feet, to share shoes with our girlfriends, and therefore defective in some way. The lines from laughing, we now don't laugh at but buy creams and potions to hopefully get rid of. We look and obsess over cellulite or stretch marks (that we earned carrying God's creation) with disdain, and uneasiness. This is not to let yourself go, or permission to NOT treat your body like the temple that it is. But it is the wake up call to STOP believing the lie that magazines, movies, and the media in general want us to believe.

We are GOD's creation. I for one, do not have the guts, balls, or courage to stand before the maker of the UNIVERSE and tell HIM where HE got it wrong, where I am concerned. So in light of that, I am going to work with what I have, STOP comparing myself to others, and look in the mirror, at the FAIREST in the land. AS a child of God, I get the bonus of also being a glorified Princess! May the Royal Crowns Unite!!!

Thanksgiving Family Night

2009-09-25T08:08:00.000-07:00

We used to have Family Night once a week at my parents. It was Heavenly. My Mom would cook for us all, we would eat, drink, and settle down for "Must See TV" as a family. Now, that we all have kids, and schedules that rarely connect us during the week, it is a rare thing.

However, this week with a break in soccer practice, and the planets aligning, we had family night once again. What we weren't expecting was a Family Feast that my Mom prepared. We had Thanksgiving. Why???? Because my parents are trying to get rid of an old freezer, and the turkey was taking up too much space. She had bought it when it was on sale a month ago, and we never ate it. Turkeys are too big for just the two of them. So last night, we had it all mashed potatoes, yams, green beans, biscuits, gravy, stuffing, and the glorious Turkey. We even had pie for dessert! PIE!!!! YUMMMMMY!!!

It made it taste like fall, even if our weather doesn't feel like fall yet. The boys then figured out that we were having Thanksgiving exactly two months early. The girls kept the tradition of having us all say something we were thankful for from our week. How completely thoughtful that the kids picked up on the idea, that we don't need a calendar day to say what we are thankful for. I need to remember to more thankful everyday for even the little things, for enough little things add up to great big things.

Have a Thankful Weekend.

Twilight Confession..........

2009-09-24T15:47:00.000-07:00

For all of you out there who are hooked, obsessed, or fascinated by the Twilight series, I have a confession............

I WAITED TOO LONG!!!!

Back in December, I bought Twilight (in paperback) as a filler gift for my Dad. He finished it while snowed in, and bought New Moon (in paperback). So I read the books in January and February......then I waited.

You see, I waited because Eclipse wasn't out in paperback. This is a funny little trait that runs in my family. If we start a book series in one format, we read all of the series in that same format. Crazy, I know, but it works for me and both my parents. Genetics, you can't pick your traits.

So a couple of weeks ago, I picked up Eclipse anxious to find out what happens in the world of Vampires and Werewolves......except I was a bit lost. I remembered enough of the big details from New Moon, but not enough of the little ones, to make the references to them make sense. So after 100 pages or so, of me trying to remember, I put the book down.

I went back to New Moon, and started reading the last third of the book. I can now see why my neighbor (who is 16) has read Twilight 13 times, and New Moon at least 10. I am not sure on the others, but I know it is multiple. There are SO many little details that you think don't matter, but really do. It was amazing how much of those I had forgotten or just not paid that much attention to. I can't say, that I will read the books as many times as my neighbor, but after rereading the one, in part, I will definitely reread them all.

As for Breaking Dawn......when I finish Eclipse, I am going to the Library so that I can finish the story. It won't be in paperback, but I have learned my lesson! :)

First Time Listening.......

2009-09-21T15:23:00.000-07:00

Little Missy proudly brought home her homework on Friday. She has yet to discover that Homework will indeed loose it's appeal one day! Anyway, in the homework, she has a

First Time Listening Chart

She quickly explained this part of the homework. There are four categories, in which they can earn first time listening smiley faces. When the chart is complete, we are to have her wear the badge at the bottom of the chart. This is to enforce that we need to be first time listeners to parents, teachers and ultimately God, and when we obey parents and teachers, we are indeed obeying God and making Him happy.

This got me to thinking, as I have been marking the appropriate boxes with pink smiley faces....What would my chart look like? What are the categories that God would pick out for me that I need to work on? Just how long would it take me to earn the badge at the bottom of the chart, and receive praise? In some areas, I see that I need to step up on my listening ears......How are your ears doing today, this week, this month????

It's Official

2009-09-17T12:27:00.000-07:00

It is official, I am back in the work force. Yesterday, after a comically coincidence of events that happen at an elementary school, I was seen for my interview thirty five minutes late. However, I was on time, and that is all that matters.

We chatted, we discussed how things would look, and in the end, I signed a contract. I am now officially the Reading Tutor for the school, as well as substitute teacher. That simply means, that as the kids need it, I am contracted out through the school. I get to set my own hours, days, and time limits. I get to use the resources of the school, as well as whatever I have at home.....oodles and oodles of reading materials. I work with the teachers, parents, and students to best get them where they need to be. I can't wait. This was my absolute favorite job when teaching, and now I can do it, and go to coffee with girlfriends too. Okay, and get some laundry and cleaning done too.

God is great at HIS timing and situations. I don't know where all of this is going to go exactly but I know for right now, I am being blessed with opportunity. I get to earn a little money for my family, while still being there to pick up my kiddos, and come home to puppy and homework. This is going to give me something to do, which in itself is a huge blessing.

Interview.......

2009-09-16T09:23:00.000-07:00

I have a job interview today. I haven't been in an official interview in over 12 years. I am slightly freaked out, and a bit nervous.

I turned in my application a few weeks ago. But unlike the public school system, my kid's school interviews their subs. This is something that as a parent, I am thankful for. I don't want some schmuck off the street teaching my kids when I am paying for them to go there. I want quality teachers all of the time. The subs should have the same faith base and standards as the real teachers. As a teacher, I think this process is a bit much. REALLY, I applied for a sub, but WAIT, I also applied to be their reading specialist because there was that NAGGING voice (yes, I realize WHO the voice is) telling me to do so. Sometimes, I really don't like what that voice has to say.

So today, I am growing in faith, that HE really does know best, and am preparing for the interview. I have the dress on, the shoes that look great (Mrs. Dunbar and Jamie be proud!) Now, I need to work for my Dad for a bit, and then go to the interview. I am going to be doing a lot of praying while typing!

Somehow.......I have this nagging feeling that this interview is more than what I applied for. I don't know why, but it seems that this is the way God has been working lately. Will keep you posted.............

NOT Recommended

2009-09-13T14:21:00.000-07:00

Here was my night last night. I do NOT recommend, you repeating it. Laugh all you want, but I will try and remedy it tonight.

After putting the kiddos to bed, I started watching Twilight, in a dark house with all lights off. I got as far as the wolf part, before realizing I was WAY too tired, to finish this movie tonight.

Took the dogs out for one last potty break before bed. Koda (11 months old) instantly went after a rabbit (good boy!) and then preceded to chase around the dark corner of the yard. All of the sudden he started to bark his "I am protecting my home, BACK OFF" bark. When he wants to sound like the size of dog he is, he can and he is intimidating! Then Hailey (12 years old and NEVER barks) put her nose to the air, and the hair on her back stood straight up. She started to bark the same bark. Now I have two big dogs going crazy, and no husband at home. I went inside to find a flashlight. NO LUCK!! I went back outside (stupid, stupid, stupid) and was pondering calling my dad or the police.......HMMMMM. The dogs are going crazy and not letting up, I am standing there in my pj's ~ Duh! I have no idea if the intruder is on four feet or two, but I am standing there waiting to find out. Repeat ~ no hubby home to protect me, and visions of werewolves fresh in the brain. Blood pressure raised at this point and heart racing.

Finally, Hailey gives up her protection bark, but remains on high alert. Koda, is not going to give this up without a fight. Alas, there is movement, and I can see that SOMETHING is on our fence that borders the ravine. It is smaller than a cat, but either a HUGE rat, or some other critter. As Koda is protecting me, it comes into the light..........a small opossum. It is hissing, snarling, and not happy that this smallish moose is trying to knock it off of "its" fence. I do the girlie thing and get a bribe for my dog. I order him to "come" and after getting his attention he does (yeah!!!) even if it is for a cookie, he obeyed with vermin in sight and almost in reach, good boy! Hailey has now seen it is vermin, and decided to look for a cookie for herself when I went in. As I feed him his treat for being such a good boy, I latch the leash on him, and bring my protector inside to be with me.

I go upstairs, and WHAT do I do????? I start where I left off in my mystery / thriller book. I am dumb!!! Of course it was the part in the story where one of the main characters gets her life threatened at knife point. It is high impact, and action, and getting later and later at night. It is now almost 11:30, before I get to a part in the story where it is normal, and I might be able to fall asleep.

Let's just say that the best part of the night was falling asleep praying for protection for me and my kiddos sleeping down the hall. I instantly felt HIS peace, and presence as sleep overwhelmed me, and without God that would have been IMPOSSIBLE. Thankfully, God is there to protect us from the Boogie Man, Vermin's, and suspense novels, as well as the "real" things in life.

Remember........

2009-09-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

I remember so clearly the early morning phone call from a friend announcing that we were under attack. I remember rushing downstairs, to see the first tower fall, and the second plane hit. After dropping off Bubba with my Mom, I learned the news that no one in my family knew where my cousin was. Pure panic went through our family as her school is right next to the towers. I remember hearing the threats all the way to school, knowing that my husband works in a government office, and was on his way there. The fear I felt, when Hubby called my cell phone during class (unheard of people!) to tell me he was evacuated and told to go home. The visual memory of the images that day still haunt me. We found my cousin safe, four days later, and heard her gruesome tale. Knowing that we were one of the blessed few who got good news.

A few years ago, Mr. C. and I went to NYC, for our anniversary. On tour of the downtown area, I chose to not go to ground zero. I couldn't. I am an extremely visual person, and I have spent time in those towers with my cousin. I have wonderful memories, and then horrible images in my head from that gruesome day.

In honor of those who lost their lives on that day, I will not forget. This is our generations "Where were you moment" that truly matters in our history. I am flying our flag in memory of the heroes of that day. I look forward to the day, when the evil of this world is cast into the Lake of Fire, and dealt with once and for all. When the TRUE King rules over us all.

First Day of School

2009-09-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

We MADE it!! Yesterday was the first day of school for my little munchkins. The morning went just as I would have predicted........Bubba, right where he should be, Missy changed outfits THREE times. Yep, we picked out THE outfit the night before, we knew how we were going to do our hair, our backpacks were packed, we were ready. Morning came, nerves came, and we changed our mind on EVERYTHING. I was proud of her though, because she changed into what is comfortable for her. A favorite skirt from the summer, and a comfy t-shirt. The cutest outfit she has - no, but she wore what she is comfortable in, and on a day like yesterday, I was proud of her choice to be herself.

We went to school as a family. We took the pictures by the sign (pictures I have of myself at the same school). I kissed Bubba goodbye as he was off to the playground, and walked the rest of the hallway to Kindergarten with Missy. She was big and put her backpack down, and off to the playground. She held my hand, unsure of what was going on. For every kid, there were a minimum of two parents. Many had even Grandparents there. 64 Kindergartners, 300 parents! NO JOKE!!! I would have been intimidated too. We swung on the swings, and got comfortable with the one little girl she knew from church. (whew!) Mr. C. and I chatted with parents who were in our same shoes, and friends from different walks in our lives.

The bell rang, and I was still doing good. I showed her were to line up ( in the girls line, of her class). She proudly said the pledge of allegiance, for we knew that one! Then they started the walk to class. They got their backpacks when told, and waved goodbye, with smiles on their faces to Mom's and Dad's and walked into class. I cried. My baby is now so big. She is gone for 8 hours a day. It is a big adjustment. This is a big day in her life, the start of her educational career.

Mr. C. is a wonderful, wonderful man, who gets me. He hugged me tight, and told me it was going to be okay. He said the things that I needed to hear as his wife, and as a Mom. Then, he sent me to the spa for the day! My sister in law and I have a small tradition of going to the spa on the first day of school. Last year for various reasons, we missed it. This year, it was mandatory. Mr. C. gave me an amazing gift card, that let me be pampered, relax, rejuvenate, and have a focus on the day besides missing our kids. At the end of treatments, and pampering, it was time to go pick the kids up. Last night was a night of stories, funny antics that kids did, and a glimpse into both of their days. IT must have been good, for they both were wiped out.

Today, drop off was much better. I shadowed her walking to her class, but refused to go out on the playground again today. I kissed her goodbye, made sure she went to the playground safely, and turned and left.....without tears. It is surreal today, the house is quiet (minus the music playing). The puppy doesn't quite know what to do without the others here to play with. We are making it, and not surprising getting things DONE!!! Wahoo!!! I think I can make this transition after all.

Happy Labor Day

2009-09-07T09:49:00.000-07:00

Labor Day has it's history dating back to the 1800's. However, our FATHER has it dating back further than that. I was deeply challenged this past year, on taking days off. Having days of rest, really keeping a Sabbath day free of work. So on this day, that our nation recognizes, I am focusing on what God says about rest, and our labor.

Rosie the Riveter, has a point: WE CAN DO IT!!! We can take a day and focus on God, family, and friends. Enjoy a last hurrah before school starts, and the unofficial end of summer. Enjoy your day friends, and focus on what matters.

Genesis 2:2 on the seventh day God had finished HIS work of creation, so HE rested from all His work.

Exodus 23:12 You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must STOP working.......It allows you to be refreshed. (message repeated 5 more times in Exodus)

1 Chronicles 28:20 ....Be Strong and courageous, and DO the work. don't be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God is with you . He will not fail you or forsake you.

Psalm 127: 2 It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.

2Corinthians 12:9 "My Grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness ." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.

Ephesians 6:7 Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.

Philippians 1:6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue HIS work until it is finally finished on the Day when Christ Jesus returns.

Sampson Summer

2009-09-04T15:01:00.000-07:00

This is the second season of the Sampson Summer in our house. It started last summer, when around April, Bubba asked if he could be Sampson for the summer. So........after consideration, I said "sure" except for keeping to the rules during school. So as of the last day of school, NO shears of any shape touch my son's head for the entire summer. Does he get stronger? Nah, but it would be cool if he did. He does feel like a rebel though! I like the fact that he kind of looks like Zac Efron.

Then AFTER Back to School Night, the big transformation happens, and I get my clean cut boy back. Truth be told, I don't mind it long. He takes care of it. His baby face comes out when it is short, and it is SOOO much cooler for soccer season.

Today, Bubba and Missy visited Miss Christina, and we had fun! He loves it! Missy is very happy to have had a trim, but still able to do the VERY important pigtails. I am happy that it is one more thing off the check list before school starts next week.

One small step..........

2009-09-03T15:56:00.001-07:00

Today I took what might seem to some as a small step in today's society, but let me assure you, it was

ONE GIANT LEAP,

for this stay at home Mama. I completed, for the second time (ugh and sigh on THAT story), my application to be a sub and reading specialist at my kid's school. I made the required copies of my degrees, credentials, and CBEST score. It is turned in, and secured. Now we wait for the phone to ring.

It has been six years since I have officially been in charge of a classroom, but I figure it is going to be like riding a bike. Once in there I can follow a lesson plan, organize and manage a class, and keep everyone from killing each other.

My confidence has been shaken from not being in the work force for so long, but today on my way home, I realized the tremendous blessing that the last six years has been. I have been taken care of by my Father who knew what was best for me and my family. The next step, I am not sure of, but I know that there is a God holding my hand making sure I don't fall.

Momisms......

2009-09-02T13:02:00.000-07:00

Every Mom, has these. They are Momisms. Words that make little or no sense to anyone else but Mom,the family, and close friends. So on the lighter side, here are some of my family's Momisms. Some of them are still in use today, others have faded now that we have grown a bit. Either way, they are fun to remember. What are yours?

Bootchey = Bottom

Chicken = any meat, other than a hot dog or fish

Moo Juice = Milk

Cheesy Toast = Grilled Cheese

Underware vs Panties (depends on the gender, but the war rages on in my house)

Peeties = toes or feet

Bana = Banana

Candy Toast = Cinnamon and Sugar on toast

Pooh Sandwich = peanut butter and honey

Suckie = Pacifier

Jammies = pajamas (a friend pointed this one out, not that odd to me)

Candy and Raisins = Trail Mix

Nudey = Speaks for itself

Fooze ball = Football

Brown Cookie = Protein bar

Dragon Blood = the mix of ketchup and mustard together, so tasty on a corn dog

Goozle = the ticklish part under the chin, that makes my little Missy sqeal with delight

Tuesday's Treasure ~ Date Night

2009-09-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

So last night we had date night. NOT me and Mr. C, but rather Missy and Me, Mr. C. and Bubba. This was an end of summer opportunity to spend quality time with each of our kids.

I let Missy choose what she wanted to do. Her choice, no joke was "I want to stay home for date night and watch a Barbie movie". Okay, that sounds easy, and fun.

Bubba and the Hubby, fulfilled one of Bub's dreams for the summer and went to Dodger Stadium for a game against the Diamond Backs. (gag, puke, cough, heart attack happening right here from the Angels fan family) His goal, was to just see a different stadium, sorta close by. So we were blessed by having a connection to a Diamond Back pitcher, and he got the boys seats with the players families. These are REALLY, REALLY nice seats behind home plate, or the dugout traditionally. He ate a Dodger dog (and didn't die!) They saw 5 home runs hit during the game, and most exciting was that they got to see a last minute baseball trade basically in action. You see, our pitcher connection actually got traded to the Dodgers during the 7th inning of the game! So now our friend, who last year actually WAS an Angel (yeah!), is now a Dodger. Bubba and Mr. C. were so excited to see it happening and be there for the live feed at the game. Baseball is wacky that way to trade mid season! Crazy, baseball factoid: he can't go home and move his stuff, because he is contracted to stay with the team. Guess his fiance is on her own for moving details!

Missy and I went shopping at one of our favorite stores of Target. When asked if she wanted to go out for dinner her response "No, I just want to stay home, and have Pot Stickers with rice." So we made dinner together, gave her a bath, got into jammies, and watched Barbie conquer the musical world. We made popcorn, cuddled on the couch, and topped the evening off with chocolate chip cookies. WE were in bed at a great time, a blessing to us both!

This morning the whole conversation between the two kids was how exciting their nights were. Two completely different nights, yet, two completely happy kids. Both were happy and excited for the other and how much fun they each had.

As for MY date night with hubby, thanks to my SIL and a sleep over with cousins, that is happening later this week!

Seasons are Changing.........

2009-08-31T08:12:00.000-07:00

The seasons are about to change. I am not talking about Summer to Fall, we still have some time for that, but more quickly approaching is the change in my life seasons.

My little Missy has one week left before entering Kindergarten, Bubba going to Third grade. We have one week left, before both kids leave the house at 7:45 and come home around 3:30. I am somewhat apprehensive at what this road will look like.

For the last eight years, I have had at least one little one, home most of the time. I have had someone going with me to Bible Studies, BSF, Costco, Target, or the grocery store. I have had to work around naps, snacks, and constantly knowing where the precious blankey is, for both of my kids are Linus. I have treasured my role, been frustrated at times of having to watch Big Bird yet one more time, and being content and blessed just knowing that this morning I don't have to rush my babies to childcare like I did when Bubba was little. However, now that this season is coming to a close, I am conflicted with emotion. I do see the light at the end of the tunnel, but also am feeling a deep loss for my season that is ending.

For me change is always received with apprehension. I don't anticipate changes well. What does this next season look like with two kids in school? What does it look like to manage homework for two, sports, church activities, and general life? These are the questions that are left unanswered at the moment. Yet, my fears are soothed by the fact and comfort that I LOVE the school my kids attend. They are going to an environment that is so RIGHT for them, and will enrich them in ways that make them grow. They not only grow academically, artistically, but more importantly are strongly encouraged to grow spiritually.

I have one more week, with both of my kids to enjoy summer. So this week, I am trying to focus on the positive and have fun with them. For what is keeping my sanity, is knowing that there is a time for everything........

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under Heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1)...

(Life application according to me, no sacrilege intended)

A time for blankies, footie pajamas, and diaper buns,

A time for naps, snacks and Big Bird,

A time for Preschool, play dates, and being with Mom,

A time for completely independents in the bathroom,

A time for backpacks, lunch pails, and school supplies,

A time for Mom to have time to herself and get things done,

A time for a Heavenly Father to make sure that we are in HIS care,

A time for God to prepare me for the next adventure on this roller coaster we are on called life.

Beach Bums

2009-08-28T08:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my SIL and I took advantage of the fact that we are not back in school yet, and escaped to the beach for the day. I packed lunch for the kiddos, and she packed crab ceviche for us. The beach is part of my element. The sound of the crashing waves, the smell of the ocean, the saltiness in the air, and seeing the blue sky touch the blue green waves, this is Heaven to me while on Earth. I love sitting on the beach, watching the kids play, and seeing one of God's amazing creations right there.

The kids had a blast playing in the waves. There were some swells that easily cleared 8 or 10 feet, and came to shore with a vengeance. When these swells came, you could almost see the anger of the waves, while being protected on shore. The boogie boarding boys were delighted as they played and "surfed" where it was still safe. The girls, were a bit more timid, but enjoyed the waves all the same, and collected some great shells.

The day was amazing, and it got us away from the

117 degree weather

at home. Oh, you read that right! We don't normally get this hot, but at least we were blessed to have an escape. It was one more day I get to dig my feet into the sand before facing sending my littlest off to school.

And the TRUE Winner Is..........

2009-08-26T12:31:00.000-07:00

Truth be told, I have loved all of the blogs you have sent me to for different reasons. However, the true winner is:

Lady Dunbar for giving me alittlebitofloveliness.blogspot.

It truly is wonderful. What the winning element was though, that the very first post that I read made me cry. I am not an easy crier per say, but she was posting about her little one going to kindergarten. I too, am facing that life changing event here in a couple of weeks, but that is a WAY different blog for a different day.

I also want to give a shout out to Humble Pie, wonderfully delightful, should we live closer, we would probably hang out! She introduced me to her sister, Stefiesjourney, which at times is thought provoking, at other times a hoot.

Lady Dunbar, I think I will hold your prize at ransom until I can give it to you during a girl's night out! ;)

Tuesday's Treasure

2009-08-25T08:18:00.001-07:00

My treasure this morning is our church's annual Marriage Getaway. Even though it is a lot of work, it also is very fun and very rewarding. It is a time for marriages to be healed, refreshed and renewed. Friday night is a fun dinner party. Saturday is meetings, but with a three hour lunch (to relax by the pool, or have a leisure lunch with friends), followed by date night.

This year's topic for the whole conference was about TREASURE. What do we treasure, what does our lives reflect that we treasure? How is God being reflected in our marriages as a treasure?

Some of the sessions were easier than others to hear. Some were down right hard to realize just how selfish we can be with our time, finances, and lives. It made me ponder what is truly being reflected through my life as a treasure. Are others seeing my ONE true treasure of Jesus?

On the sad note, Mr. C. and I didn't get one picture of us dressed up! NOT ONE!!! There are pictures of our friends as couples, but not one of us. I did however treasure that he took the time to coordinate with my dress, you just can't see it :(

And the Winner Is.......

2009-08-19T15:18:00.000-07:00

Sandal's Marriage Getaway!!!! Yep, you guessed it, it has won the contest, okay not really. The truth of the matter is though, that if I didn't have my hand-me-down new phone, I wouldn't have had the time to go to the fabulous places you have introduced me to. I spent a few minutes looking at blogs while waiting for fireworks at Disneyland, while Mr. C. was on rides with the kids. SOOOOO.....the contest is

EXTENDED!!!!!

One more week, of submitting your fabulous favorite places to see blogs. I like what I see so far though!

In the mean time, here is a Pointless Poll for you......................

Are your toes painted for summer or fall, and what color are they?

For those of you coming to the Getaway, can't wait to party with you. For those who I won't be seeing there, pray for my sanity......it might be slowly leaving. I actually had to pause when asked my husbands name. I PAUSED!!!! WOW is my brain happily fried.

More to post, when there is a moment of calmness.............

Celebrate 100

2009-08-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

With Tuesday's blog, I have reached 100 posts!!!!

WAHOO!!!

Who would have known? I sure didn't when I started on this journey, that if for sure. The best news is that you could CELEBRATE too! Here is my challenge........

Over the next week, introduce me to a blog that you love, that I don't know about.
Tell me why you love them, and why you think I will, or should.
The winner, of my favorite will celebrate with me and WIN A PRIZE!!!
The contest will end August 19th, and yes, you can submit more than one!
Tell your friends, they can win too!!!

Happy celebrating, and thanks for going on this blogging journey with me.

Tuesday's Treasure ~ Best Friends

2009-08-11T19:48:00.001-07:00

My Treasure is my kid's relationship. They have always gotten along. They have always been nice to each other, with reason. But this summer, they have blown me away. My kids have had a LOT of time where it has been the two of them only. They have only had each other to be entertained by. This summer has been magical, and I know it won't always last. Instead of TV in the morning, they are quick to play with each other. Every afternoon and night, they veg out with each other playing a game or deciding together the movie they want watch. They have literally been in each other's back pocket, and liked it.

Now, don't get me wrong, there have been moments. But it has been just that, moments, that are quickly fading, and never lasting long. I will treasure this summer, for the pure joy that my kids have been, for I know that this too may be a only a memory next year.

Be Strong and Courageous

2009-08-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I blogged about the journey our church was on to find a church home. In the words of our pastor yesterday......."God ALWAYS shows up. It may not be early, yet NEVER is is late, but rather, it is on time, in HIS time, right when we need HIM the most." Well, God has shown up. We now officially have a building!!!!

However, we NEED a home. In order to make the building a home, certain things have to happen. Permits need to be obtained, parking needs to be found, and the church body needs to cough up some dough to make the transition on the inside of the building from an industrial shell, into a church home.

Again, I am reminded of the Israelites crossing into Canaan. They were promised the land. They knew it was theirs. However, there were kings who wanted to fight for what was at the moment THEIR kingdom, and fight they did. Joshua had to lead the people in victory, but victory had it's price, and had a lot of hard work in the mix. It took courage, faith, sweat, sacrifice, and a belief that God was indeed on their side, and that the Israelites would be victorious.

I am left with the encouragement for Joshua: "Be strong and courageous." These words are echoed four different times, in Joshua 1. No matter what the challenge was that God was preparing them for, HIS words at the end were: "Be strong and courageous". This is what our church needs to do now. We need to prepare for the battles ahead, and

"Be strong and courageous.

Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged,

for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Joshua 1:9

Hostess Gift

2009-08-07T21:14:00.001-07:00

Tonight we had our good friends over for dinner. We did the traditional "What time should we be there? Can I bring anything?" Yada Yada.

Here is when you KNOW you have great friends.......They show up with your favorite beer that you were just craving, that they introduced you to. I didn't ask them to bring it, they just brought it on top of the salad that was requested. Then they also brought brownies to go with the ice cream that I had promised for dessert! Who doesn't like brownies and ice cream together?????

The topping of the cake was the hostess gift that was hidden away for me to find. I am SURE that my friend didn't want me to make a big deal over the gift and get embarrassed. I am POSITIVE that her humble and kind spirit, knew that I would appreciate such a gesture and wanted it to be a surprise. What did I find? None other than this fabulous Louis Vuitton handbag. Some friends are just worth keeping for lifetimes!!!! Man oh man, am I going to enjoy this generous gift!!! ;)

Tuesday's Treasure

2009-08-05T10:39:00.000-07:00

San Francisco is my treasure, a true highlight for the summer. When we first got married, my parents gave us this word of advice: Every year, starting now, go away for your anniversary. Now, we do not always go away during our anniversary, especially now that we have kids and got married on a holiday weekend, however we do go away. So on Saturday, we packed our bags, dropped off the kids and puppy at Nana's, and headed to the airport. We spent four days in San Francisco being a couple, not parents. We got the opportunity to sleep in, dine out, eat lots of fish, and just be adults without an agenda, or kids. I love my kids, but this was bliss and truly needed for our relationship. We rode on a go-car, a rocket boat, and of course a trolley car. We had a blast just being us and remembering what "us" is. I didn't leave my heart in San Francisco, as the song goes, but I did renew my heart! Love you Babe!!!

For My Dad

2009-07-29T11:26:00.000-07:00

Growing up, we had a poster of the Hobbit in our garage. I have always known that my Dad has loved the Hobbit as well as the Lord of the Rings books. He even has Bilbo Baggins' birthday in his outlook. I have never read any of the books. Not for any reason mind you, but just haven't. Well, last week when we were waiting for his surgery to end, my brother and I got into this conversation about the books. We reminisced about the poster, and my Dad's love for this series. Well, my brother admitted to having several of his own copies, an annotated version of the book with commentary, and now the prequel that J.R. Tolkein's son has finished. This all got my curiosity up. So when I finished my last book, I have been patiently waiting to get my hands on a copy of this book. I want to read it, while I can discuss it with my family since they all love it so much. So for the next week of so, I am off to read in the land of Hobbits, fairies, and whatever other mystical friend may come my way...........will let you know when I am done if I will read the Lord of the Rings.

Tuesday's Treasure

2009-07-28T08:36:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday GG!!! This is my Grandma, my kid's GG, this week she turned 89. She is the Grandma that rocks! We went camping as children with her, and her way cool motor home. We had sleep overs in the backyard underneath my Grandfather's pitch tent from the army. She came to every event, big or small, and most of all she loves us unconditionally. I am so blessed that we have her in our lives and in my children's lives. Of course knowing her roots, dinner was Spaghetti, with homemade french bread. Dessert was made by Missy (with some help) but is my Grandma's favorite and something she was good at baking, brownies! I wish I could say that my passion for cooking came from her, but that comes from the other side. My passion for painted nails, is ALL her!!! I have RARELY seen her natural nail color ~ always saucy and usually red, it is her signature color.