Getting My Words Out...

Jeff is laying down for his Sunday afternoon nap, I took a small nap during the half time of Oregon and Florida game. I am now watching Georgetown and North Carolina. Therefore there is no time for a long extended nap today. (Jodi is saying, "That sacrilegious not to take a nap on Sunday!")

You all will be glad to know that I finally made it to my "Day O Beauty yesterday", Tina (TEE-NAH) was very happy to fit me in even though she was very, very busy. I felt sorry for her but she told me, "No you worry, I messed up your day yesterday!" She is the cutest little Vietnamese lady and we have some of the best conversations about her life in Vietnam. She says often that she is happy "to be American". I second that- yes mam I do.

Children's Church was an experience today. It left me a little unsettled. A single mother visited our church for the first time and brought her "autistic" child with her. I put autistic in parenthesis because that is my assessment of him. The mom describes her child as having "behavioral issues." But when you scream really loud, pull your hair and try to run away on the playground three times, it is more than "behavioral issues." I felt horrible because I had to ask that the mother to take him out of our class since the other kids were about to have a breakdown of their own. Our children's minister stepped in and saved the day from there. She kept him outside of the classroom where he continued to scream. Later when we went out on the playground, I offered to bring him into the class. I thought he may work better if he was able to run and play on his own. He ran all right-right past Jeff into the fence door that Jeff had just walked through. Instead of being able to push the kids on the swing and play chase with them, Jeff and I had to monitor the two entry's into the fenced in playground. The rest of time the little boy walked around the perimeter of the fence looking for a way to escape. I guess I will be brushing off some of my psychology books from college this week to get some insight on how to improve all of our environment if this boy continues to be in our class. I really, really hope this mother comes back because I know she needs a community around her. And she has left a burden on my heart today.


On to other things...

My great-grandmother is still in the hospital. They are talking about Hospice Care now. She is very, very sick and I just wish that God would just take her home. I know that sounds cruel to those of you who do not know all the circumstances but she is 97 years old, a strong believer and has no fear of dying. NO FEAR. Jeff and I saw her today-we prayed with her and she asked me to bring my hymnal so we can sing to her. I plan on going up tomorrow afternoon if I can get away from the office. I just want to love her in her final days. She was so cute today holding my hand and telling me the type of things all great-grandmothers say to their great grandchildren. It left me with warm fuzzies all over. I have been blessed to have her for as long as I have-I will cherish my memories until we meet again.

I guess I will end this post since the buzzer on my dryer is going off-and I love to fold a warm load of laundry. That's not a joke-this brings me great joy.

If you made it to the end of this very long post-thank you for sticking with me. You are sweet to be a faithful reader.

Happy Sunday!

My Day So Far

Today I was scheduled for a "day of beauty" at my favorite nail salon complete with an eyebrow wax. I felt this was a sufficient way to start of my Friday as I head into a very, very busy weekend.

I arrive to the salon and get all seated in the "chair of terror" that will leave me in a bittersweet state of mind. Bitter being the part that my eyebrow hair was just ripped out in one fell swoop and the Sweet being that I will not have to pluck the blasted things. I am a woman that hates to pluck thy eyebrows. But we soon realize that the wax is not hot-the owners sister unplugged it the night before. I say, "No problem. I will come back in an hour." (One of the moments where I enter into a state of euphoria-knowing I am blessed to be able to come back in an hour, since my life is not that hectic...at least today it's not.)

So I drive out of the parking lot with hopes of returning a few not too flattering shirts to Old Navy. I had just put my water bottle between my legs and was unscrewing the top to get a big swig when the water came shooting out like Old Faithful. Who knew that I squeeze my legs when I am making a turn and trying to brake at the same time. So my pants are wet in a not too flattering location if you catch my drift. So I am heading back home instead because there is no way I would be caught dead with water spots strategically placed around my buttux area.

When I walk in the door, I take a moment to breath. I have an hour to spare after all. I decide that the best thing for me would be to get a little "Quiet Time" going. As I sit and pray my phone rings, it's Granny on the other line calling for her morning chat and the latest update on my great grandmother. My great grandmother went back in the hospital yesterday because her arm was swelling up to an unusual size. Weird, huh? Anyway, Granny says that she now has pneumonia in her left lung and will be in the hospital until Monday.

And here is where my day completely changes.

I called "The Salon of Beauty" and told Tee-nah (That is how she pronounces her name, slow and drawn out...TEE-NAH!) that I will need to come in tomorrow instead of today because my family needs me. I said it just like that. So I am off to go spend a few minutes with my sweet great grandmother today.

And I as I made this decision, I realize that I am blessed, truly blessed to be able to drop everything and be at my family's side-no matter what.

Thank you Lord for freeing up my day so I can serve my family!

A Book Review: "The Undomestic Goddess" By Sophia Kinsella

I first knew that I would love this book when my grandmother handed me her LARGE PRINT version and said, "Read this. You will LOOOOVE it!" Granny has NEVER steered me wrong in the book department.

I then fell in love with it for myself when in the opening paragraph the main character, Samantha is getting a massage while hiding her cell phone and blackberry in her clothes so she can get some work done during the massage. Who would do that?

This book is funny and sweet. By the end of it, you will have fallen head over heals in love with Samantha. And you find yourself wanting to sit down and have a little heart to heart about her choices she is making because you only want the best for her. I will NOT give anything away-you will just have to read if for yourself to see what I am talking about.

This book is one reason why more Sophie Kinsella books are on my list to be read. She is fun, quirky and you get wrapped up in each of the characters in this book. At times a little self absorbed, which is fine, for now. I just a break from the serious books that I have been pouring myself into the last few months. Not that I haven't loved the serious ones but my brain is a little bit tired and telling me to chill out for a moment.

Let me know if you have read or will read "The Undomestic Goddess." I would love to hear your thoughts.

(This post is brought to you by the people who willingly print their books in large print so my Granny can continue her love for reading!)

The Spring Reading Challenge!

Katrina at Callapidder Days is at it again but this time instead of Fall Reading we are doing a little SPRING READING.

When you look at my list you are going to see some common themes this go round. This time I am all about the Chicks. Second most of them are light hearted-hopefully some what clean and will offer a good break from THE REAL WORLD!

All these books have been catching my eye while walking the book ailse at Target. I figured what better time to read than the springtime when I can sit and get a tan at the same time.

Feel free to click on the book titles below to read the summary of the books. I will check back after each one to give you my own take. I will also a family friendly rating for those of you who try to monitor what you read.

Saving Fish From Drying By Amy Tan

Confessions of a Shopaholic By Sophie Kinsella

Shopaholic & Sister By Sophie Kinsella

Oh My Stars By Lorna Landvik

The Jane Austn Book Club By Karen Joy Fowler

The Last Girls By Lee Smith

The Sisterhood of Traveling Pants By Ann Brashares

Annie Freeman's Traveling Funeral By Kris Radish

Hope you all join in the fun! I can't wait to see what everyone else is reading out in the big ole world we affectionatley call BLOG LAND!

It's life changing to be walking with thousands and thousands of people who have been in some way touched by breast cancer. Last year, a father and his two daughters walked in front of us with a sign on their backs saying "In Honor of Mom and My Wife." They were holding hands-each had tears streaming down their face. The date "mom" died was just 2 months before The Race.

This year once again, I am strapping on my running shoes and joining my mother and sister-in-law to walk in honor of those we love who have either won or lost the fight that effects more and more women each year.

I walk for my grandmother who died in 2000 after a long battle with breast cancer.

I walk for Rhessa who won her fight with breast cancer.

I walk for Missy's grandmother MeMe who also won the fight.

And this year I add a new person to walk for to my list.

Her name is Terri. She has done my hair since I was three years old. She is more than a hairdresser, she is a friend almost like a sister. For my wedding, she offered to do my mom and my hair for free. What better gift can you give to someone than making sure their hair is just right on the day we say I Do? She is a constant supporter to my every changing need "to change my hair up a bit." She knows the right color to bring out the color of my eyes and she has learned to camouflage my hair in such a way that my face look thinner than it really is.

In recent years, I have started each appointment by asking the same question, "So what's new with you?" And often times after she fills me in on the this and that's of her life I will say, "Keep me posted because I will be praying for you." The other day she sat me down in "Chair O Beauty" and first thing out of her mouth, "Susan, I need your prayers since you are the praying sort."

I sort of set up a little bit taller because something in her voice warned me that I needed to prepare myself. "Alright, tell me what I can pray for you."

"I found a lump in my breast and will have a biopsy next week."

"Oh Terri, I am so sorry!"

She then she went about her business of covering up the roots and I sat in the chair and did just what she asked. Prayed.

Lord, be with her.

This week my mom had her turn in the "Chair O Beauty" and came home to tell me that the lump is now called breast cancer. So I continue to pray. Each morning in the shower when I lather up my hair, I pray. Each morning when I comb my hair out to dry it, I pray. As I am driving through traffic and I blow that wispy piece that hangs in front of my face, I pray. And as I walk April 7, I will pray.

I am also raising money to help further the race for the cure. If you would like to donate then click the link here. Please know that your dollars will be greatly appreciated no matter what the amount. Let's join together to beat this nasty beast called "Breast Cancer."

A Quick Story with A Lasting Impression

Katelyn and I (who spent the night with "Lynnie"-grandmother extraordinaire and who lives next door to us) were driving to have breakfast this morning with the family.

Yesterday she picked out this Barbie for her gift from us, that looks like a Barbie but is actually a remote for a game you can load on the television. You have to actually program the stupid thing before it will actually work. Since Katelyn has been looking very forward to playing her new game-and to say she was bummed it didn't work the instant we put the batteries in is a small understatement.

As we were driving to breakfast she says, "I am not going to worry about the Barbie because I know that my Daddy can fix it later today. When my Daddy is around there is no reason for me to worry, right?"

This of course got me to thinking about my Heavenly Father.

"Katy, do you know that we have the same thing with our Heavenly Father, even when you Daddy is not here He is watching out for you?"

"Oh yes, and if my Daddy and Mommy were to die I would be just fine because God is watching out for me and He will take care of me."

"That's right, sweet friend. Why do we waste our time worrying when God is going to take care of us?"

"I don't worry because God is always with me."

My heart smiled and I know that God's did too.


Later in the day, I was praying about the house hunt. I started to think about my conversation today and quickly changed my tune. "Lord, I am not going to worry because I know that you are going to take care of me-just like Katy said."

Do you think there was a reason she was in the car and said these things the day after I spent most of the night laying my worries at God's feet? Coincidence, I think not.

Father, thank you for showing me that you are here and have gone before us so there is no need to worry about the little details or the big because you are in them all."

A BIG DAY...KATY DAY!

Today you celebrate St. Patricks day while I celebrate my niece Katelyn's 5Th birthday! Y'all I am old!

For each of my nieces birthdays I take them to IHOP for breakfast and a trip to Wal-Mart to pick out their present. Today was Katy's day! Now let me tell you, Katy is a lot more, should I say, shy, no that's not it...maybe I should say, humble...yeah humble is the right word...than her sister Faith. Faith is a lot like me, God help her! She loves to be the center of attention. She is not afraid to talk up her birthday weeks in advance and she will tell you all day, "It's my birthday say happy birthday to me!" The proof of our similarities is in this post.

Anyway, Katy was the complete opposite of Faith. I bought her an "I am 5" pin today. She put it on at first but then someone at IHOP said, "Happy Birthday!" because they read her pin. It freaked her out and she asked to take it off. What!?!?!? Shoot, I would of loved to have one that said "I am 29 today," I would of wore it proudly. Although I am happy to say she later put it back on after I talked to her about how important today was. I said things like, today is YOUR DAY, you only have this day only once a year, so you should soak it up because everyone deserves to feel special on their day. Do you know her response?

"I felt different today when I woke up because I was a whole year older!"

I told her I totally understood how she feels, I always feel different on my birthday. When they came to sing I snapped this picture of her in the "IHOP Chef's hat." She was a little nervous with having all the attention focused on her. Isn't she a doll! Love this girl, yes I do!

Here is her breakfast of champions...she ate all the chocolate chips and almost half of the Funny Face Pancake.

And here I am with my sweet niece Katelyn. (And yes that is an NCAA hat I am proudly wearing from my mom's trip last year. Hint to Mom: Bring me back another one this year. And yes bloggers, my mom is going to the finals without ME! Where is the love people? Where is the love? The closest I get to being able to go to the Finals is dropping them off at the airport!)
I love you sweet Katelyn and enjoyed being able to be apart of your special day! After all you only turn 5 once. And you are the cutest 5 year old I know!

Katelyn's Favorites at age 5 (according to her today)

Favorite Cartoon: Popeye and Dora

Favorite Color: Purple (she gets that from me!)

Favorite Season: Summer (she surprised me, I didn't know if she would understand what I was asking)

Favorite Movie: "Ah, sometimes "Tweety the Movie" and sometimes "High School Musical"

Favorite Food: Pancakes (Go figure...she was waiting for them after all)

Favorite Restaurant: McDonald's

The Newest Member To The Team

It's no secret our family is a basketball family. As we speak, I am watching the NCAA finals and updating my brackets. My grandfather and I have a tradition of making our picks for each Round. Whoever wins over all buys the other a gag gift and one thing I love is a good gag gift, yes I do!

Round One we are tied so I am crossing my fingers that Kentucky wins. Last nights upset for Duke initiated the happy dance for me. I had to call Bonner (that is my grandfather) to gloat. Today he called me to gloat over the Texas A & M CC loss to Wisconsin. Tonight Jeff is in Las Vegas so I went over to harass my grandfather since I was one team ahead at that point. We have an appointment tomorrow at 9 A.M to make the Round 2 picks. I will keep you posted on my status.

Now for the rest of the story....

I met my sister in law with the three kids for a gourmet lunch at Mickey D's a.k.a McDonald's. It was delightful to say the least. After we got done eating we took the kids into the playroom to play. Elijah noticed the basketball goal game pretty quickly. He became so excited when a little boy dropped the basketball on the ground. I told my sister in law, "That must of been the same look that the Israelites had when the manna came falling down." He was that excited. I being the aunt and all had to fish out a quarter in the bottom of my purse (which I must clean out this weekend) just to let my little buddy have all the b-ball time he chose. He grabbed that ball like he was a pro or something. I swear little man is a natural basketball player! And could he be anything not with all the ball players in our family?

A Beautiful Legacy

I have been studying what it means to be a PROVERBS 31 woman before Mrs. Shultz's death, I thought often of her, while studying this passage.

You remember how it was when you were young-don't you? When you had that one best friend who you spent every weekend with day in and day out. I was lucky because I had two best friends who happened to live on the same street, Lauren and Lindsay. It didn't matter whose house I was officially staying with, we always ended up together, the three of us. Many nights were spent down in the Shultz basement dancing to hits like "Jailhouse Rock" and "Uptown Girl." We would laugh and carry on for hours and hours. The next day, we would wake up to the smells and sounds of a gourmet breakfast being cooked by Gail. As we walked in she would say, "Hello my little beauties!" And we would smile and say in that I just rolled out of bed voice, "Hellllooooo!" Years later, I asked her for many of her breakfast recipes-she made the best French Toast. I can't wait to cook the same from my children and their kids.

There was the time that we decided to TP (toilet paper) the Shultz house. Since we were only thirteen at the time, we had to beg our parents to drive us from place to place. I begged my mom to let us toilet paper Lauren's house one night when she was unable to stay with us. She of course gave in and in fact joined in the fun. We tried to stifle our giggles and teenage girl chatter, while simultaneously lofting the toilet paper into the trees. My mom decided the front door needed a little sprucing which is very brave of her since everyone knows you save the door for last, just in case you get caught. As my mom was tying her toilet paper bow to the house, the front door opens and out walks Gail. She and my mom shared a good laugh and I think they even went in to have a glass of tea. Now, that to me is hospitality: serving tea in the middle of the night while your yard is getting littered with toilet paper.

And then there were Lauren's birthday parties. Lauren had a middle of August birthday so we were never in school and it was always blazing hot. There was the party where all the mom's were called in advance but us girls did not have a clue. We were woken up the next morning by who else? Lauren and her mom Gail and the other girls that they had stopped to pick up along the way. We were told to get in the car because we were having a "Come As You Are Party." Can you imagine our shock and horror of not being able to primp before we were seen in public? I mean we were 13 and knew we just had to look cute to walk out to the mailbox. But the parties of all parties, were the ones at the lake house. All the boys and all the girls were invited for the entire grade, it was a private school so it was not that many kids. We would spend the day playing in the lake-while Gary and Gail would grill hot dogs and hamburgers for us. Later they would take us all to their house where pur parents came to pick us up. No one really wanted to leave because we all were having a blast.

There are many, many more stories I could tell like these because Gail's life was full of joy and her joy was contagious to those around her. She loved every child as if they were their own, she was a friend to everyone and did not judge you, she was genuine through and through.

What I love the most was Gail's fair well today. There was no casket since her body had been donated to help others live on and there was no awkward grave side service. But what we had was a mini-reunion topped off with brownie and all sorts of cookies and a gallons of lemonade. The church and recpetion hall was full of teachers, friends, family and community who at some points lives were touched by Gail Shultz. She leaves behind a beautiful leagacy.

I would like to share with you a special write up in today's Star Telegram. When the writer read her obituary he was so inspired that he wrote something more. Follow this link to read the rest of the story, http://www.dfw.com/240/story/37621.html

What a blessing Gail was to me and I bet even to many of you reading this post today.

Please continue to pray for Gary (her husband) and three kids, Ryan, Taylor and Lauren as well as the in-laws and grandchildren that have a whole in their heart tonight.

A Blogland Break...A Good Cry...And Checking Myself Into the Looney Bin

(Edited: I removed the song that was playing here simply because the mood had passed. The Song? "How Deep The Father's Love For Us")

I am taking the rest of the week off from blog land. Most people wouldn't even mention they were taking time away they would just leave then leave us wondering if everything is okay in THE REAL WORLD. I tell you this because I would like you to pray with me.

My best friend's mom died Saturday. My best friend since I was in 1st grade, my best friend that's parents stood by me in good times and bad. My best friend who was in my wedding whose Dad offered me a job so that I wouldn't have to work at Chili's any more. My friends whose parents were my second parents. Whose home was a safe haven when mine was not. She wasn't sick-it was just her time to go.

My grandmother was reading the obituaries this morning, something I often do with her as a joke. We count the number of people we know. Yes, it's morbid but funny when you realize that Granny has not too many friends left. Then today, she was reading and she said, "I had to call your mother first just in case I was wrong." My mom than pulls up the obituaries online and sends me a link-without warning. I called my grandmother first. Granny said, "Are you okay?" I replied, "Yes I am. I am just in shock and I feel like I need to call Lauren." Granny said she would let me go so I could make my calls. But instead I have spent the rest of the day praying and praising. Gail's life was full. She did not have to suffer-she just died. She is now in Heaven, enjoying the party-she loves a good party. But honestly my heart aches more for her family, those that have yet to complete their journey. She will be a big void in that family.

This week is also the anniversary of my Uncle Miller's death. In fact the same day as the memorial would be the same day Miller died. 4 years ago, the first night Jeff and I were back from our honeymoon settling in as husband and wife-we received a call from Granny. It is always a sad time of year for our family. Another death without warning.

(Edited to add: I am about to run with my emotions so grab on to something tight!)

So you are about to think me totally nuts (I am. Your assessment is correct-but hang with me) I am planning my funeral this week. Yes I am 29 years old and feel it necessary to jot this stuff down on paper. After Miller's death-I have faced the reality that sometimes we just die, without warning and without good-bye. So I don't want to leave without jotting a few sweet notes on paper to Jeff and my family.

Here is what I know so far, this song you are now listening to will be played at my funeral -coupled with something that will get your feet tapping. I was thinking a gospel version of "I'll Fly Away" but then I remembered my favorite song of all time... "Getting Jiggy with It" by Will Smith. Because I can assure you, I will be getting jiggy with it in Heaven. I will be like the blind man who Jesus healed with the touch of his hands who quickly jumped up and danced a jig. (Don't go looking in your bible for "danced a jig" I added that myself. And I assure you, Metro Parents even though this is the lesson I taught in Sunday School this week, I did not mention the words: DANCED A JIG! Promise!) I invite everyone to my funeral, I don't care if I don't even know you-come anyway. Why? Because I am going to have someone preach the gospel to you. So if you don't know already I can guarantee you will know Jesus and the steps to salvation when you leave my funeral. Because that dear friends is the meaning of life: Jesus. Let's hear it for the "Altar Call!"

And for a not so relevant side note: If Jeff is not crying or showing any signs of missing me...then will someone please hit him upside the head and tell him "Your wife asked me to give you a message." But if he is crying like a baby- hug him and tell him I loved him with all my heart. And yes, it's okay to remarry but better do it with the lights on because ghosts come out at night. LOL!

(Whew! How I feel better! Seriously folks, I started this post crying like a baby and ended it laughing 'till my side hurt thinking of how much fun it will be if God allows me to be a ghost just one time after Jeff is remarried.)

All that being said, please pray for my friends and my family. And may we all remember to cherish every moment with our loved ones, even those who can sometime be a thorn in our flesh, if you know what I mean.

Attention FWC Alum

Lauren Schultz's mother died unexpectedly Saturday. I thought I would use Blogland to get the word out. Please pray for Gary, Ryan, Taylor and Lauren. In order to respect thier privacy, I will send the link of the obituary if you email me. My email is in my profile. God bless you all! Susan

My New Friend Glady's

Texas People are Unique people. We are known for wearing big hats, have big hair, in fact the bigger the hair the better. We make are own shorts out of old jeans and the men are known for wearing t-shirts with the sleeves cut out because let's face it, it's hot in Texas during the summer. It's because of us, Texas folks, that you see the signs, "No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service." That's why during the hot months, when we all run around shirt less and shoe less we gear up the family bar-b-que in the backyard-because who cares how roam when you are in your own home.

But have you met, Gladys from Austin, Texas.

What?!?!

You don't know who Gladys is??? Well then let me be the first to introduce you.

I found her one day when I was channel surfing and came across The Ellen Show. Ellen was hunched over laughing so hard I had rewind and see what the deal was.

I don't think I have ever laughed so hard!

So click here to laugh yourself...I will follow up with a post later in the week-with Gladys favorite lines.

Mixeology

A BAD COMBINATION:

Daylight Saving + Teaching Sunday School + miss Set Alarm Clock= 3-4 year old students hanging in the youth room until the teachers come to pick them up

A GOOD COMBINATION:

Daylight Savings + Teaching Sunday School= only 3 student in my classroom today

A BAD COMBINATION:

Wal-Mart grocery shopping + start of Spring Break + 8:30 P.M = many screaming children with parents wearing looks on their faces that says "How the are going to survive the next 5 days?"

A GOOD COMBINATION:

Wal-Mart Grocery shopping + purchase of a new book + no kids in my home = a nice quiet evening for me!

Happy Anniversary To Us!

It's been a great four years so far! I look forward to seeing what this year will bring!

I love you Jeff!

Procrastination Station In Full Swing

I should be working...I'm not. I should be starting a load of clothes...I'm not. I should be doing my bible study for small groups that starts in less than two hours...but I'm not. Instead I am here, typing up a storm. Why does it feel like it has been a long time since I filled everyone in on the happenings at our place? Is it just me or does it seem that we are all posting less these days? Could it be we have SPRING FEVER?!?! I don't know about you but the weather here has been gorgeous and I have been hanging outside reading a good book, working on my tan.

So let me fill you in on what has been happening in my neck of the woods.

We are looking for a house but it doesn't look like we will be moving as soon as I hoped. Let's just say that once again I realize that God does not want us to plan our future but to trust Him to show us our future. God is doing some amazing things during this time and I just sit back and wait for Him to give us the go. I am also amazed with Jeff and his willingness to continue to save and wait for God to give him the peace he has asked for before we move forward. I wish I could say I am the same way but sadly I want to move. I have also realized that the reason I want to move is so I can "keep up with the Jones" so to speak but like Jeff continues to show me by his actions, we aren't to compare ourselves to those around us but to compare ourselves with what God has planned for us. I swear Jeff amazes me everyday with his willingness to wait and not sweat the small stuff.

Also-I got a second job with the same company. Some of you know that I work as a sales rep admin for Ashley Furniture. What you may not know is Ashley is divided into three divisions, I now work for 2 of the 3 divisions in North Texas . Which is going to be absolutely nuts! But a blessing to our bottom line. Just another way that GOd is providing for us during this time of waiting. I was telling a friend about this job the other day and she said to get ready God is about do something huge in your life. I believe that is true, scarey to realize but true.

I am also listening to a new tape series on the Proverbs 31 woman by Nancy Leigh Demoss. It is very good-very convicting. Nancy is going verse by verse explaining what each verse means. One thing I found very cool was that if you read P31you will see that this woman first talks about God, then husband, then children and lastly the community. Nancy said there is a reason for that because that is how God designed women's roles: God, husband, children, community. I don't know about you but I often reverse my roles and my husband and God fall last when they should always be first. I would highly recommend this to anyone out there, single, married, mother, no children, divorced...it's a one size fits all type series.

Well I guess that wraps up my world, oh I forgot. Tomorrow is Jeff and my anniversary. We are going away this weekend but I don't know where. We had a friend ask us if we wanted to come over for dinner in honor of our anniversary but Jeff said, "No thank you, I want to be alone with my wife-away from the normal people we run with." Gets me curious as to what he has up his sleeve but I don't care as long as I don't have to cook and can close the office down for a few days-I will be just fine!

Catch you on the flip side!

Change of Plans...

I thought I would do the soundtrack thing today but work has other plans. I am out for awhile so go ahead and make it a great day, maybe a great week in blogland without me.

Oh and I changed the music because I am cool like that. I realize if you are not checking in everyday you miss out on my music selections... too bad, so sad!

My sweet friend is hurting today.

I felt it important to change the music since she is very sad today.

I will be back tomorrow with "MY LIFE SOUNDTRACK" please feel free to join in-I don't want to look like no one likes me. (Just teasing!)

But in the meantime, remember that NOTHING can seperate you from the love of Christ and

I am off to pray for you, sweet friend.

"The Road Goes On Forever and The Party Never Ends..."

The party is still happening here in my house, for that I am thankful. We have had a hectic week! I am praying that this week be just a little slower since our anniversary is coming up this Thursday and I would like to stop long enough to enjoy it!

So who's up for a little game? I know you are, everyone like to play games. So here is what you do: Pretend that Sony Music has come knocking on your door with a proposal. The proposal is that they would like for you to market a CD to pass out to your friends or family that would sum up the greatest (or perhaps worst) parts of your life. What music would you choose?

Now here is what Sony would like us to share:

1) What song reminds you of childhood?

2) What song reminds you of your first kiss?

3) What song reminds you for your first break-up?

4) What was your Senior Class Song?

5) What song reminds of the college years?

6)What song is your "Wedding Song"?

6) What song would you say was your theme song back in the day?

7) What song best describes who you are today?

8) Bonus Track: Pick a song, any song that is a must for the "Song track Of Your Life" CD?


So what would you choose?

Come back on Tuesday and see what I would pick and on the bottom of the post-I will have our friend "Mr. Linky" so please, please, please link to your post.

Now let me just say, that I am begging you not to make me look like the girl in school who had no friends but thought she did-therefore she had her parents throw her a party and yet, no one came except for her best friend who really wasn't her friend just someone who felt sorry for her and thought of this girl as her "charity project."


And since the point of THE BLOG PARTY is to have fun and get to know each other then I say we do just that. LET'S GET REAL PEOPLE! So grab a cold Dr Pepper or whatever your drink of champions is and sit awhile. Remember I won't tell your family you are hiding out at my place instead of grocery shopping, cleaning the house or cooking dinner.

Tune in Tuesday-it will be fun, if it's not I will NEVER do this LINKY thing again.

THIS CHICK LIKES TO PARTY!

I am always looking for an excuse to add a little fun to the everyday routine. If you invite me to the party, you can guarantee I will be there...unless it is a Home Interiors, Avon, Mary Kay or any of the other parties such as these. I am not really a fan-no reason-just don't like them. But enough about those let me tell you about this one. It's a BLOG PARTY, Y'all! It's a party set up by "5 Minutes for Mom" where you can meet other bloggers in blog land. Let's call it an open house or a meet and greet, or I could use a little sunshine in my day kind of thing. Anyone is welcome to join in on the fun in fact, the more the merrier. Just blog something entertaining starting now until March 9Th.



I got so excited about the party that I treated myself to a pedicure..."Lilac Fiesta" is the color of my toes. The masterpiece I am standing on is an original work of art done by niece Faith.

So tune in tomorrow-I have a game for all of us to play-but first I must clean up the house and finish a project for work. By the way, this little project is what has kept me from blogging like I normally do this week. It's like the "higher ups" knew that I was planning to party or something. Maybe it is a conspiracy to keep me from doing what I love to do. But I can't let them get me down, no sir! I won't, I won't, I won't. To read more about this little shin-dig and to join in for yourself go HERE.

Otherwise come back to my blog a.k.a "Procrastination Station" to hide out from the family, laundry and any thing else that you MUST handle on the dreaded "TO DO" LIST! What happens here, stays here-and my mama told me NOT to be a tattle tale so I will NOT tell your significant others or offspring that you are goofing off at my place. All I ask is that you have yourself some fun this week!

Oh and enjoy the new music...I picked it especially for you...hope it gets you dancing! For those of you who maybe just read "The 30 Day List" understand why I choose this song- See # 30! Ha! Ha!

30 THINGS TO DO BEFORE I TURN 30!

Blogland, my "older" and more "wiser" friends have encouraged me to make a 30 things to do before I turn 30 list. Since turning 29 all of 5 days ago, I have thought long and hard about THE LIST. I have erased and added, erased again and added again many things repeatedly. All because I didn't know if it could be done or if I wanted to commit myself to getting it done in 360 days. I wanted to run a half marathon but thought better of it since we are trying for kids...could you imagine me running with a load up front? I just don't see it happening.

Please remember when reading this list that this is MY LIST, MY GOALS and some may seem a bit-let's just say strange to you but to me they all make perfect, logical sense. My friends out there may even say, "Yes, that sounds just like something Susan would do!"

So can I get a drumroll please...

1. run a 5k marathon w/out stopping (I can do this pregnant, eyes closed and running backwards...I hope or i can do it BEFORE I am prego)
2. Las Vegas Trip-maybe renew VOWS with HUBBY by ELVIS
3. Start taking Piano Lessons again...why did I quit in the first place
4. learn to knit booties!
5. finish THE WEDDING SCRAPBOOK
6. Reread: Mitford Series, Little House on the Prairie, The Ladies of the Club and Gone with the Wind
7. Read: Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice and some of the other classics I "read" in high school but truth is I didn't read it, I read the CLIFF NOTES
8. Organize photos that are in a box from high school, college and Camp Deer Run Days (I promise to post embarrassing pics of friends via THE BLOG)
9. take a painting class
10. get wisdom teeth pulled-YUCK but necessary
11. write a thank you note to the influential people in my life, the ones who encouraged me, stood by me and helped me move beyond my past
12. tell Jeff EVERYDAY that I LOVE HIM
13. go to Philly, Chicago or Boston (BTW: If I am pregnant this summer-the plan is for me to go to Philly to run the steps like Rocky...wouldn't that be funny!)
14. jump in a foam pit at TEXAS TUMBLERS with my favorite little buddy Amie J!
15. relearn Spanish-I used to be great at it when I worked in the restaurant but now...I can only remember cuss words
16. finish writing the "Blessed Assurance" Bible Study
17. plant a garden
18. frame Jeff's photo's from road trips-too great not to show them off
19. live in the moment
20. learn to bake bread-call me Mrs Baird's if I accomplish this
21. get a redesign to me blog (it's in the works...can't wait to do the big REVEAL)
22. continue to grow in the Lord
23. start a thankful list-one for each day from now until Feb 21st
24. get a menu plan/grocery list inventory together (just wait-you will either want one of your own or think I am completely obsessed with the organizational process)
25. scrapbook the scrapbook retreats...some of our best stuff is on those stinking retreats yet "What happens in Canton Stays in Canton or does it?!?!"
26. Raise money for the Race For the Cure!
27. buy a house
28. get the Deer Run Chicks together for a day-o-fun!
29. celebrate Jeff's birthday in our NEW HOUSE-this summer! We are already planning his big day-he will be 37 y'all...I married me an OLD MAN but I love him, wouldn't trade him
30. BECOME A MOTHER FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!

And don't you worry your pretty little head, I will keep you posted as I check them off. It may be some great blog material or atleast I seem to hope that people will think it is great blog material.

"Fireflies"

The FIRST time I heard this song, I thought about the days when I was young and I would lay under our big tree in the backyard and watch the clouds pass by in the sky. I would imagine that I would see flying bats, butterflies, bunnies hiding behind the clouds. Often times I would fall asleep to be later awoken by my brother throwing a stick or a ball or even a rock my way. But I allowed myself to dream-to use my imagination.

The SECOND time I heard this song, I made myself remember what it means to dream. Before the heartache, before the empty promises of young love-there was a little girl who dreamt of her prince charming sweeping her off her feet. I remembered the giddy feeling that comes from your first kiss or the first time that special someone held your hand in a dark movie theatre. These were special times because I was a little girl who had grown into a young woman and was learning what it meant to "be in love" the good and the bad. I just knew that one day my prince would come.

The THIRD time I heard this song, I thought of my nieces who are at the dreaming stage. They run and play and are fascinated with the world around them. They play "Princess" and "House" and dress themselves up in their various roles. They run outside and play and some days I will sit them down and point to the clouds. "Girls what do you see up there?" They will point out the bats, the butterflies and the bunnies hiding behind the clouds. They each love ladybugs and these little bugs are a treasure to find. We often have to stop and pick them up. And a real live butterfly is an extra special treat. It's in these moments that I realize that once again I have learned to dream. I have relearned what it means to "dream of fairy tales and dreamers dreams like bed sheet sails." And I am renewed by the freedom to dream my childhood dreams.

The FOURTH time I heard this song, I realized that this is the song that I want on my blog for this week. I want others to walk away from reading this with a renewal of their own childhood dreams
dreaming of fireflies and Peter Pan. So take a moment turn up the volume on the computer and enjoy the song.

"Fireflies"

Before you met me i was a fairy princess

I caught frogs and called them prince

And made myself a queen

Before you knew me i traveled 'round the world

I slept in castles and fell in love

Because i was taught to dream

I found mayonnaise bottles and poked holes on top

To capture tinker bell

They were just fireflies to the untrained eye

But i could always tell

[chorus]

I believe in fairy tales and dreamers dreams like bed sheet sails

And i believe in peter pan and miracles

And anything i can to get by

And fireflies

Before i grew up i saw you on a cloud

I could bless myself in your name and pat you on your wings

Before i grew up i heard you whisper so loud

"life is hard, and so is love, child, believe in all these things"

I found mayonnaise bottles and poked holes on top

To capture tinker bell

And they were just fireflies to the untrained eye

But i could always tell

[chorus]

Before you met me i was a fairy princess

I caught frogs and called them prince

And made myself a queen

Before you knew me i traveled 'round the world

And i slept in castles and fell in love

Because i was taught to dream

Happy Birthday To Me!

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalms 118:24


Lord, thank you for my life. May it bless others as I seek to serve you. Lord thank you for your faithfulness-thank you for being the one constant in an ever changing world. Thank you for loving me when I was unlovable and humbling me when I thought I deserved more love. Lord thank you for my friends and family. You have blessed me with some amazing people. Thank you for Jeff-who inspires me, exasperates me and loves me warts and all. Lord, I do not worry about the future because I know you are in the future. I do not worry about the path you have set before me because I know that you have already gone ahead and paved the way for us. Lord I pray that you continue to challenge me, continue to show me ways that could be more like you. I pray that you take each day and make it your day. Fill me with faith that is steadfast , fill me with joy that overflows and fill me with the peace that passes all understanding so I can serve you fully in the moment-not looking ahead to the next thing.
Heavenly Father, I adore you and praise you for all that you have done and all that you are going to do with my life.

In Jesus Name Amen!


(PS: While writing this post-I got interrupted by the phone. My sweet nieces, Faith and Katelyn sang Happy Birthday to me over the phone. They have the sweetest, most angelic voices. And again I ask you, "Could life get any sweeter?")

FAT TUESDAY!

Today I was talking to Jeff about our plans for tonight. We originally were going to celebrate FAT TUESDAY at Razoo's. But I soon started having flashbacks to my days at Chili's and thought better of it. And trust me after years of slinging beers and margaritas along with other concoctions for the drinking population of DFW-these are not happy memories.

"Uh, Jeff! Can we just stay home tonight?"

"Sure baby, whatever you want because it's YOUR BIRTHDAY WEEK!"

"Well great-then will you go pick up a pizza and a movie? And we can celebrate our own FAT TUESDAY!"

So I guess in a way we are celebrating FAT TUESDAY by getting FAT on slices of PIZZA!

Again I ask you, "Can life get any sweeter?!?!"

Let the Festivities Begin!

My Husband out did himself this year! Jeff is NOT the planner in the family, I am!

Jeff is NOT the LOVER O' BIRTHDAYS in the family, I am!

I believe everyone should be celebrated on their BIRTHDAY! Jeff just sees it as another day until this year....

Jeff sent E-VITE's to a few of our friends and we all met at my favorite new spot in Downtown Fort Worth. Gloria's Restaurant-home of the best bean dip, margaritas and salsa dancing. For you Fort Worth folks: It's located in the newly renovated Montgomery Ward building off of 7th street. It's my opinion that EVERYONE should go by there because not only is there a Gloria's but a Starbucks, Cold Stone Creamery, Target, Ross and Marshalls. A girls dream spot.

As the party was breaking up I could not stop wishing everyone a Happy Birthday! I don't know why but I kept saying, "Thanks for coming! Happy Birthday!" Maybe it was my margarita talking but I have never been affected like that...EVER! Oh well, it was fun!

I am so blessed with friends and family who are willing to take time out from their kids to spend the evening celebrating little ole me. One friend had had a really, really rough week so I felt extra special that they made it that night. Another friend's husband was on a business trip but she still came all that way to say, "Happy Birthday!" God has really blessed Jeff and I with great friends and family! I cherish them always! Here is the chicks from the party, the men were on the opposite side of us holding our "luggage" or purses as they are normally called.

What a wonderful way to kick off the birthday celebration! Tonight we are off to celebrate FAT TUESDAY at Razoo's. Neither of us have ever done this but you are only 29 once so Jeff is letting me live it up! No that's not true it's just the excuse we are using to get out of the house since he is on vacation this week and I am not. Otherwise I would be staying home in my pj's getting caught up on laundry and other things that have gotten out of hand since I was sick 4 straight days last week. And tomorrow is my OFFICIAL birthday so Jeff and I will be heading to Cheesecake Factory! Could life get any better than that?!? I don't think so, I really don't think so!

A List Of Random Thoughts!

1. I am still sick, I spent Friday night layed up in bed with fever...AGAIN! I thought I was better, but I guess I was wrong. I haven't left the house since Monday-I am ready to not be sick anymore!
2. I missed out on scrappy time with my chicks last night...I was bummed.
3. I had to cancel last weeks Recollections night with sister in law b/c I was too tired from my all niter at the hospital. I NEED SOME CHICK TIME!
4. Hubby has put together a dinner party for me and a few of our friends tomorrow night to celebrate my birthday...I am looking forward to seeing someone other than Jeff and getting dressed up. Dressed Up=make-up and something other than pjs.
5. A friend told me that since I will be 29 Wednesday, I need to come up with my list. List???? Supposedly I am to come up with 30 things I want to do before I turn 30 and then make a list of 40 things I want to do before I am 40 when I turn 30. I have 365 days to get my list of 30 done and I have 10 years to get the 40 done. Whatever! Sounds fun! Be looking for a list in the next few days.
6. I just finished watching Rocky! I am desperate for new shows to watch.
7. GH has been fabulous this week, an extra special treat for a sick woman. I kept thinking, "I wonder if Paige and Meredith are watching?" Meredith was my roommate in college who got me hooked on GH. And Paige, let's just say our love for GH runs in the family. Ha! Ha!
8. Now I am Watching Rocky III, it's a marathon on TNT. I loved these movies when I was a little girl. "EYE OF THE TIGER" was my theme song-no not really. But I do use it when I am lifting weights.
9. I haven't lifted weights in over two weeks, I am going to be so sore when I start back.
10. I lost weight though due to having no appetite and drinking lots of water this week. I needed to lose a few pounds so it works for me.
11. Have you ever tried laughing when you have a cold? I laughed so hard during MY Name is Earl, The Office and Scrubs the other night that I thought I was going to pass out, I couldn't breath and I couldn't cough because I was laughing too hard. I was afraid my face turned blue!
12. Have you seen Britney Spears latest? No! Google it, I don't want to take the time to link to the picture of her skinned head. Give it up, girl! Give it up!
13. Okay I am going to lay down, stuff Kleenex's up my nose to clog it up so I don't drip! Have a happy Saturday!

God Bless Him!

I just needed to take a moment and praise my husband. He has been so sweet and supportive the last few days and deserves a post of his own.

Yesterday, Jeff was off work so he was home with me on Valentine's Day. This is not a common thing for him to be off work during the week but his schedule has changed to where he will work Thursday and Friday during the day than his normal night shift.

Unfortunately, I have been sick the last few days. And yesterday was my worst day. But Jeff took it all in stride. He ran a couple loads of laundry, cleaned the kitchen and refilled my water glass. Later, he went to Sam's Club to see if he could rummage up a meal. He brought home a plate of Cajun Chicken Pasta that was pure heaven. He also had a Valentine's Day card telling me how much he loves me. Now a card on Valentine's Day is A BIG deal b/c we long ago threw out the idea of celebrating "THIS HALLMARK HOLIDAY" as Jeff dubbed it back then. Plus I would rather he save up all the romance he can muster for my birthday the following week. But this year, I got a card, dinner, clean clothes and a clean kitchen. Who can ask for more?

Today I am feeling much, much better! In fact, if I wasn't coughing the bullhorn style coughs I would consider myself fully recovered. Praise God for that, right? So I am going to work until 1, then dump all the trash, clean the sheets, fold the remaining laundry from yesterday and vacuum the house. Then I will scrub the bathroom, scrub myself (yes I am still in my pj's) and take my husband out to his favorite restaurant and possibly a movie. Why? Because I love him and he deserves a little bit of pampering today.

Thank you Jeff for spending you Sunday this week caring for our grandmothers. Thank you for spending the last few days keeping our house running smoothly while I crapped out on the couch from this nasty, nasty cold. I love you dearly!

Happy Valentine's Day or Is It?

I usually am one who loves Valentine's day-not because of what the day means but because it is the countdown to my birthday. My birthday is exactly 7 days after Valentines-the 21st. As a kid the Valentine card swaps always felt like a kick off to my BIG DAY. But today things are a little different.

I woke up this morning around 2, feeling just plain yuck. I was sick all day yesterday but I went to bed thinking the worst was over. Not so, dear friends. I took my temperature last night-102 was the high! And boy do I feel it. Now I am laying on the couch with the covers over me, my phone to the right and my laptop resting on the armrest. Because, I am still working even though I feel like a weight is on my chest and jump from being extremely hot to extremely cold.

I am going to MAKE MYSELF get up and take a shower, brush my teeth before Jeff wakes for the day. I may not be a beautiful Valentine today but I sure don't want to be a smelly one!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

Isn't It Ironic?

I pray for life-my great-grandmother prayers for death?

Today as we prayed together in her desperatley bare room at the nursing home, I cried.

Here she lays praying for the Lord to take her Home and her I am praying nightly for the Lord to give me Life.

It just reminds of the verse in Ecclesiastes, "God has made EVERYTHING beautiful in His time."

That means death, life and everything in between.

Cherishing and Trusting...

The Lord is teaching me so much this week and for that I am continually grateful.

The first is to cherish. Just last week, I was complaining in my prayer time because I was tired of spinning in circles so to speak. I felt unused and bored. A friend's phone call reminded me to enjoy my mornings of reading as long as I like or just laying in bed because the covers felt too good to get up. Because as the Johnson and Johnson commercial so wisely states, "A baby changes everything."

My great grandmother's fall was a reminder that life is fragile and we should cherish where the path takes us. I cherish the moments with "Mom" because she is so precious to me. I cherish the fact that I am not in school, child free and a husband who works nights so that this past week I could clear my already almost cleared schedule to be at my great-grandmother's bedside. Wild horses couldn't pull me a way! :)

The second lesson is to trust. You see I often forget that God really does have a plan for me. I get so tired of feeling like my life is in a standstill. But each time I start this mantra I am reminded that if I would just trust Him that I would see I am exactly on the path that God has destined for me.

I believe that God used all the events of this week to teach me to trust Him and to cherish His plan for my life. So instead of looking for the "big thing" to come in order for me to serve God-I just want to serve. If for today all I am to do is serve my great grandmother by visiting her in the nursing home-then that is what I will do. One day. Lord willing if I am mom-I will serve my children. And as always, I will continue to serve my husband each and every day. But most importantly I will serve the Lord. And learn to be flexible with my plans just in case He changes my course in order to serve Him more fully.

P.S. I will post a Mom Bonner report later in the week-she is still trucking along and deserves a post all to herself!

Trying to Post Something Not Too Depressing Or Deep...

Today while staying with my great-grandmother I got mistaken for a nurse while walking the halls. Instead of correcting the "male nurse" that should know better since his desk is right outside of Mom's room I went along for the ride.

Male Nurse: "Haven't I worked with you before?"

Susan: "Maybe. Where do you think we worked together?"

(I was thinking he would say Chili's here I swear-since I have worked at the Chili's next door to the hospital.)

Male Nurse: "You worked with me at the Lewisville ER didn't you?"

Susan: "Let's see. What years were you there?"

Male Nurse: " %#%" (not sure what he says here, I was contemplating my next line)

Susan: "Nope sorry I didn't work at that ER during those years."

And then I walked away. So later when I asked for an extra set of silverware so that I could share the choclate pudding with Room 281 you should seen Male Nurses face. Priceless...

Do you think he was wondering at this point why a fellow nurse would be sharng another patients pudding?

Nah, I bet at that point he realized I was not that nurse he used to work with in the Lewisville ER.

A Bittersweet Day

I need a hug, do you? Today has been a hectic one and from what I have heard from some of my friends today the same is true for them as well. So before I tell you MY story, take a moment wrap your arms around you and squeeze real tight. That is my virtual hug sent out via blogland to anyone and everyone who may need a hug. (Jodi, Becky and mi familia that means you!)


97 years old is a long time to live ya'll. And my great grandmother (pictured here) is still ticking. She had a bit of a setback last night though. She fell out of her bed and was rushed to the hospital. She has a kidney infection and is dehydrated. But her BP is 120 over 50-that's good, real good for a 97 year old woman.

We shared a sweet moment today alone in her hospital room. I brought my Bible thinking she would want to read her favorite passage, John 17. I started to read, I couldn't make it through the first few verses without crying. I stopped looked at her and said, "Mom, this is hard for me. I don't ever read the Bible without crying." She too was crying and said, "I don't either and I just love hearing you read to me. Go on," she says. So I read John 17 and we both cried, unashamed by our tears.

When I finished we sat and discussed family members that we have been praying for in our family. I told her to quit worrying about them and trust God. Because of her example these people will be in Heaven with us one day. "I believe you are right, sweet child. I believe you are right."


Her deepest desire is to go home to the Lord. That is all she wants these days. I pray the Lord will take her home peacefully while she is sleeping. But I must admit that I will miss her when she leaves. Although it will only be for a little while since eternity will be extra sweet sharing it with Mom. But I am not putting her in the grave just yet; since I am not the one who decides when people should go. But I will enjoy the time I do have with her. The time I have to pray with her and to pray for our family and reading God's Word with her. I will cherish these moments and not wallow in my own self pity. But praise God for the 97 years she has had on this earth. Who knows she could live longer than all of us.

On a funnier side, she told the doctor tonight, "If I die I will sue you!"

The doctor said, "Good luck trying to get a someone to defend you from the grave. They don't have Yellow Book in Heaven I am afraid."

She replied back with her huge grin, "Well you lucked out there, didn't you?"


She is just too precious!

Prayer List

I know that prayer is a powerful tool. And it seems my prayer list is growing, for which I am thankful. I love to pray for others probably because I like to see how God transforms them and myself during the process. I have seen miracles-I am a miracle due to the fact that others stood in the gap for me. And I praise God for the gift of the Spirit to inteerceed for us. All that being said, let me lay a few requests in your lap as well.

1. Jeff-he is going on his first ever Men's Retreat. I am very, very proud of him. He did this all on his own signing up and all. I pray that the retreat will connect him to other men in our church and I pray that the men in our church will grow and seek God during this time. The cool thing is he is going to the place our youth group first went to when I started high school and we got a new youth minister. Those of you from youth group know what great memories are there for me.


2. Maudie- Jeff's grandmother. Continue to pray for her-I hate to admit that I do not know the latest. But from what I have heard the plan is to place her in a rehabilitation facility until she can get back on her feet again. Continue to pray for her to have a open heart for whoever God puts in her path to direct her to Him. Pray for her healing and her upcoming angioplasty.

3. Becky's Dad- Becky is my new friend who married a good friend of mine in high school. They just moved back to DFW area and we had become blogging friends before they moved. Please pray for her Dad's heart surgery. Also pray for Becky and her family as they sit and wait. Pray for the doctors to use thier gifts of healing during the surgery. Pray for Greg and the kids as they are without wife and mom.

4. Pray for Jodi- David's grandmother died today and they will be traveling to Kentucky for the weekend. Pray for little Reagan to sleep and for her to be healthy since the last trip she cathched RSV. Pray for the family as they say goodbye. Jodi said that Grandmother is having a party with angels tonight. So praise God for her leaving a legacy of faith behind.

5. Canon- my little friend Canon went to the hospital this past weekend. Not sure of his status but pray that his little body will be protected. For those of you confused-Canon is the little boy who had a liver transplant over a year ago.

6. My grandfather- please pray for him as he is recovering from lip surgery that removed his cancer spot. He is also very angry these days- this is not a side that I am used to seeing. Pray that God will transform his heart and remove the bitter root.


Thank you friends for praying. I am off to go to bed since I feel HORRIBLE today!

" A Parable" by Susan

A man lost his job unexpectedly one day. He asked the Lord to show him the job that He planned for him and began his search. Job lead after job lead led this man no where. He became angry and disconnected with Lord until one day he found a help wanted sign in the window of his local grocery store. He almost let his pride stand in the way of taking this job since this was not a job for a formal C.E.O. But knowing that money was tight and the bills piling high, he did not see any other choice.

The first day on the job was enough to drive anyone to quit. He left for home that day feeling tired and dirty. Scrubbing the warehouse floors was NOT the job he signed up for but it was the task he was given none the less.

That evening while sitting in his chair watching the 10 o'clock news, he noticed a familiar book on his side table. This book had somehow got left behind while on his quest to find the perfect job. He picked up The Bible and ran his finger over the front cover. "When was the last time he read this?" thought the man. All he could do was hang his head in shame.

"Lord I failed you. I went ahead without you taking the lead. Show me what it is you want for me. What is your plan for me and this new job?"

He opened his Bible and read the first thing that his eyes fell on.

"Whatever you do, work it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

Colossians 3:23

The next day the man rose early because he had a renewed spirit with this new job. As he drove to the local grocery store, he prayed that God would use this job to glorify Him.

As he walked in the door, he was greeted by his new boss. "Oh, am I ever glad to see you! Our regular cashier has quit in order to take care of her sick mother and we desperately need to feel her spot. So I am going to move you up to the cashier position. Do you mind? Once you are fully trained you will receive a raise since this position pays more."

The man just smiled and said, "If that is where you need me, I will be glad to serve."

That day was the start of something great in this man's life. Because of the verse in Colossians that he had read before; he saw this as an opportunity to serve the Lord by serving the people in his line. The customers loved him, in fact it seemed that he always knew the right things to say to lift their spirits. It was refreshing too to see someone enjoy his job as he obviously did.

He was eventually promoted to manager. Although his salary never even came close to matching what he made at his old job, the man did not worry. Because all of his needs were being met, spiritually and physically. And like the end of Colossians said, "it was the Lord Christ whom He served."


I hope that this story will encourage you today. No matter what job you may have: stay at home mom, janitor, sales associate, teacher, pastor, youth minister, missionary, doctor, nurse, lawyer, retired or unemployed. Just remember Colossians 3:23, "Whatever you do, work it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men...since it is the Lord Christ you are serving."

Go out and have a great Monday.

Baby Peyton Update...

In my prayer post on Thursday, I wrote about Baby Peyton. He was born on Wednesday and the plan was for the doctors to operate immediately on the tumor that was pushing against his aorta. The doctors decided that a c-section would be best to get this little one out so they could get to the tumor ASAP. His parents were in a state of shock but continued to pray that God would work a miracle.

Last night, I went over to my friend Alison's who has been keeping me up to date with the latest Peyton news-since Peyton's mom is her team teacher. She says to me, "Listen to the message I got from David yesterday." (David is Peyton's dad) I don't really remember the full message so let me paraphrase for you.

"Hey guys- it's David. We just got some news that I wanted to share with you. Come to find out that the tumor pushing up against the aorta is NOT a tumor but lung tissue. The doctors have already removed the tissue and from what they know Peyton will be just fine. No tumor, no cancer."

At this point of the message, I am crying. In fact, just retelling the story is making me tear up all over again. If you only knew the weeks that were spent in prayer for this little family. Alison and I have prayed and discussed that what they need is a miracle. Well blog land, Peyton received his miracle this week! Oh yes he did!

"Lord, you are the divine healer and the ultimate miracle maker. We praise you for all that you have done in little Peyton's life. We praise you for giving his parents strength and courage as they faced these last few months with so many questions and not knowing what the future will bring. Thank you Lord for using these experience to teach me that no one can plan their future-no one knows what the next day may bring. But what we can know is the words you say in Jeremiah 29:11-that you know the plans for us, plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to to give us hope and a future." Lord thank you! No words can adequately describe the joy we feel."

This Post is For You Julie!

Julie, I have not been as good of friend as I wanted to be with your questions, so look what I found tonight on your blog. And scroll down, you may find a surprise for you and only you!


1. I’ve come to realize that my ex-(boyfriend) --- was part of the "Broken Road" that led me to Jeff.
2. I am listening to --- Jay Leno.
3. I talk --- way too much.
4. I love --- Thursday night TV and curling up with a good book.
5. My best friends --- are my best friends b/c they know everything about me and still love me. 6. I lost --- my wedding band-have the engagement ring but the band is long gone.
7. I hate it when people --- send me lots of forwards. (Amen, Julie!)
8. Love is --- a battlefield. (I am keeping Julie's b/c I started to sing the song and I love 13 going on 30 when Jenn dances with the 13 year old)
9. Marriage is --- fun, why did I not do it sooner.
10. Somewhere, someone is thinking --- "Love is a battlefield!"

11. I’ll always be --- Myself.
12. I have a crush on --- Rick Springfield.
13. The last time I cried was because --- watching The Extreme Home Makeover show.
14. My cell phone --- is non-existent. I refuse to use one since I am always at home. Need me-call Jeff.
15. When I wake up in the morning --- I lay in bed and wonder how long I can stay in bed before the office phone starts ringing.
16. Before I go to sleep at night --- I pray.

17. Right now I am thinking about --- Jeff. He is sick and should of called in sick and thanking God I have the bed to myself tonight.

18. Babies are --- sweet. When will it be my turn?

19. I get on MySpace --- never but have enjoyed hearing from old friends. AHEM! Julie!

20. Today I --- stayed in my PJ's (Thursdays are PJ days) read a good book and watched the snow fall

21. Tonight I will --- lay in bed reading-praying-dreaming

22. Tomorrow I will ---get a pedicure and spend the evening with my scrappy chicks while Jeff stays home and coughs up a lung. Seriously folks-he should be home-he had 100.5 fever but he says "They need me! I can't call in!" Men!!!

And Bonus Material Just for Julie!!!

1. Your current favorite song? Love is a Battlefield no just kidding, Jessie's Girl by Rick Springfield

2. The best movie you saw over the holidays? Charlotte's Web-I cried

3. What's on your Tivo Season Pass list? If I had it...but we use MIL and FILS so here is what is on theirs 24, Days of Our Lives, The Office and My Name is Earl (FIL sometimes records for me), Dr. Phil, Charger Game and Hallmark Movies

4. The most unorganized part of your house? My Desk-horrible

5. Your first memory of your spouse? He sitting at the Chili's Bar I worked at, waiting on his brother who was my manager, and I said to Matt the brother/manager, "Whose that old man sitting at the bar?" Who knew the old man would end up my husband?!?!

6. The most frequent thing you get caught up doing and is a total waste of your time but fun and you do it anyways? Blogging!

7. The most predictable part of your daily routine that most people don't know? I take a shower first thing when I get out of bed otherwise it will never happen. Except Thursdays that is PJ DAY.

8. What would you do with a day off, 50 bucks, and child care provided? shop!

9. The last good, new recipe you tried? I love my Martha Stewart Baking Book so that is always good. Tune in soon b/c I have some great recipes that I feel like blog land would enjoy!

10. In 2007 I am looking forward to... buying a house and having a baby-Lord willing!