Oh alright, I will play and I have nothing better to write about so it's an added bonus

I was tagged by Cousin Lyniel

Here are the rules:
1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write a post on their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules.

4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.


8 RANDOM FACTS ABOUT ME (stay with me, the last part I think is quite funny, the mental picure alone has made me chuckle)

1. One of my favorite things is to read is the Sunday Paper. I read the comics, the Life Section where they post the recent weddings and engagements. (I used to know many people but know our group of friends are all married and having children). I then read all the ads. Then I read the A & E section. Then I read the local "what's happening" in our neighborhood, the police scanner is my favorite. As you can see, I don't read the serious stuff, sometimes I may glance over but I try to keep it light and easy.

2. I organize my refrigerator like I used to when I managed a restaurant. Everything is out of a box, lined up in nice rows. The meat is on the bottom shelf or in the drawer, it's a health food thing.

3. I hum when I am working around the house, when I am thinking, when I am walking. Get the picture? I hum all the time. Sometimes I turn up the volume and sing my lungs out but that is mostly done without an audience.
4. I prefer cold showers in the summer rather than hot ones. There is nothing better than a nice cooling shower to help beat the Texas heat.

5. I have a very distinct laugh. I used to try to laugh quietly but that is nearly impossible. Therefore, I have embraced my laugh. I also love to laugh. It leaves me feeling warm and fuzzy. I will laugh for no apparent reason. My friends tell me it is because I have just gone to my happy place and needed to laugh.

6. I watch the local city council meetings on television every month. Yes, the boring, poor quality film job that lasts 2 hours. I watch it. It keeps me in the know.


7. When I am in deep thought, I pucker up my lips or stick out the tip of my tongue.

One night I was checking out a movie at Blockbuster, I went to the land of deep thoughts while I was waiting in line. This guy in front of me, turns around and says, "Why are you so mad? Are you having a bad day?" He was a creepy little dude (at least 6 inches shorter than me) and I said, "I'm sorry." He caught me off guard-I was not paying attention to him because duh I was in deep thought. He replies, "You don't have to be so rude." I said, "What are you talking about?" He says, "You must be having a bad day." "Huh?" Finally I had to tell him I have had a really long day, I am just standing here thinking, do you mind? I am now trying to work on thinking without looking like I am scowling. People, if I look like I am scowling please just assume that I am in deep thought and not upset. Here is someone who does the same as me, see the puckered look on his face.



8. Lastly I cry when I pray. I also cry when I discuss my prayer requests. I cry at commercials. The baby ones always get to me. They are just so sticking cute. I cry at movies. I cry at the sweet television shows that end on the happy note. For example, Brady Bunch, Little House on the Prarie, Extreme Homemakeover, The Friends finale rerun that I watched tonight. Sometimes my cry consists of watering eyes and a few tears running down my face. Other times, it is like someone turned on the water faucet full force. I may need to buy stock in Kleenex when I get pregnant, it could get ugly.

Now I am supposed to tag people but to be honest, I am too lazy to go to each of your blogs to say "tag your it." so if you would like to join in, than by all means do so and please say, "Susan tagged me."

I am like the little indifferent child at recess who just stands there and slaps someone as they pass by because they are too tired to exert the effort into running around trying to actually catch someone so they no longer have to be it.

That's why I like Freeze Tag, I just stood there the whole game and let all the other kids run around me. And I would yell, "DON'T TOUCH ME I AM FROZEN!" I was a pro at getting out of playing those "stupid childhood games"

(Did that make you chuckle or was it just me. Sometimes, I crack myself up!)

Jeff's Been Thinking...

Jeff and I are sitting in the kitchen at MIL and FIL's they aren't home yet-we are working our way through thier snacks in the freezer. MIL keeps great snacks on hand.

We are hungry.

I just logged into thier computer because I have an announcement.

Jeff just announced today to a few of us at church that he was thinking of starting a blog.

"What will the topic be?"

"I haven't decided yet."

One suggested that he write about me since I often write about him.

The one who suggested this is a regular reader of the blog.

Jeff is not. Thanks for letting the cat out of the bag, Kim!

No, Just kidding. He has too many people talk to him about the blog in the real world for him not to know that he is a regular feature.

Just now in the kitchen of MIL and FIL's he declares, "I am going to write a blog about political sattire."

"Umm, okay."

"I wonder if my mom would put my blog in her favorites folder like she has your blog?"

"Maybe."

I am halfway through telling you all of this when he says.

"You are about to goof on me in the blog aren't you?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Because you get a wicked grin on your face when you are about to write something about me on the blog."

Hmm.

I didn't realize he knew me that well.

I will keep you posted if Jeff begins to write a blog.

He just informed me that he may not do it because it will be too much pressure to think of something to say each day.

"Umm, okay."

Happy Sunday!

Someone Tell Me Why I Blog Again?

I am escaping for a few hours tomorrow night to my favorite scrapbook store. Let's just be honest for a second, this chick needs a break from a certain cleaned out colon male. Only kidding, only kidding.

I started to get all my pictures together because I am trying to be "Susie Save a Buck Or Two" so when we move I can buy lots of fun stuff to decorate thy walls or buy some cute fall fashions. So what does Susie Saver do when she is going to the scrapbook mecca? I organize all my pictures with my papers on hand and pray, lots of prayer before I open the scrapbook store door. I pray for the good Lord to help me have willpower and wisdom and what not.


"Dear Lord, help me not to buy the things I need but only the things I really, really want!"

So here is one reason why I blog:

When it comes time to get the albums organized in chronological order do you know what I use to help trigger my memory?


The blog.

I have spent a good portion of my night sitting here reading my own blog. It's fascinating really, fascinating to a woman with an email address called Granny B.

(Let me pause for a second. Does anyone else find it strange that my grandmother would have an email address yet no computer and no way of knowing how even to turn the computer on or how to send an email. Seriously do you catch the irony, folks?)

And boy has my style changed from the first post. My personality is showing through like a mac truck driving on your tail in the middle of the night with his high beams blinding you in the rear view mirror. And when I started this adventure we call blogging, I was very serious, matter of fact, almost shy. So not like me.

So thank you for sticking around all these months and coming back to read more. Sometimes I wonder why you did but it does not matter really, I am just happy you have stuck around.

Because really it's nights like tonight that I realize why blogging is so important to me.

It's important because I know have my 2006 and 2007 scrapbook albums in chronological order. That is a blessing in and of itself!

Got to have them priorities folks, got to have them priorities!

Praise God

Jeff is home resting now.

We are colon cancer free, the other issues can be fixed with medication and fiber.

Jeff had to go in alone to get his IV and what not...he hates needles, he was scared.

When the nurse called me in Jeff said, "Please pray for me."

I said, "I am."

He said, "No NOW."

So I lifted up his name to God and prayed right then and there for my sweet husband.

Could this be one of the reasons we went through this? We lean on each other so much more than before.

God is good.

The Nurse told me that if the procedure took more than 30 minutes than there was a problem to be fixed. It only took 20.

Big thanks to my mother in law for coming to sit with me.

When she walked in I started to cry.

Thank you, MIL for coming at the perfect time. I was about ready to flip out.

But God is good-He provided a support for Jeff and I.

My mom told me that I should never act "big and strong" to my mothers. That is what they are there for.

So next time, I will call MIL or MOM to be with us.

I am thankful that we never grow out of needing our mothers.

Jeff was funny when he woke up, very groggy.

Kept asking the same questions.

He is worried about Matt (his brother) who is in Mexico.

He asked us four times if we have talked to Matt.

On the drive home, he fell asleep.

I have now put him to bed called my mom and a few friends who have been praying with me.

And since I have been on the other side of the screen when you are praying for someone, waiting for an update, I thought I would not make you all wait for the results.

God is good. God is Good!

Thank you for walking this journey with us.

We are blessed to have each one of you in our lives.

Love

Susan

(and Groggy Jeff)

That's Me!

I was going through old pictures tonight because I have decided to post a "Flashback" picture for my profile picture and this is what I found.

Do you see the similarity?!?!?

 

This is why I love Elijah. Not only do I think he looks like this darling little thing pictured above, but he also can look just like Missy (his mom). This boy is a chameleon baby or maybe he just knows how to please his mama and his aunt at any given moment. Hee! Hee!

But I say from this picture he looks like ME! His Aunt Choo-Choo a.k.a Sue-Sue for the older kids.

Oh Missy, even if you don't see it please amuse me for a little while. If you do you will have earned you 5 free nights of babysitting. LOL!

29 and 1/2

Today is my 1/2 birthday.

I am now 29 1/2. I thought this would be a good day to check to see if I have done any of the goals that I have set out to accomplish before I turn the big 3-0.

Click here to read the original list.

I feel some major revisions are going to need to be done because things have changed in the last 6 months. See what happens when you try to plan?

It doesn't work.

So here is a revised list:

1. Live each day to the fullest

2. Continue to tell Jeff I love him every single day.

3. Pray more-plan less.

4. Be more loving to friends and family in my life. Jeff and I call this "Being Other Oriented"

5. Learn to Knit (this is on the original list-I am almost there)

6. Buy less save more.

7. Read more books...watch less television.

8. Be content with where I am and not try to rush ahead of God's plan

9. Continue my quest to become "Lil' Susie Homemaker"

10. Go to Vegas!

Oh and one last thing-do better about calling friends and family to check in.

Have I ever told you that I hate talking on the phone? I should be better about calling but I am on the phone ALL DAY LONG, I would rather meet for coffee and chat for an hour or meet for lunch and eat and chat for an hour. I will get better about doing this. Although I am not making plans anymore-just living. I am living each day one day at a time.

And I promise you, I will be in Vegas before February 21st.

I may go alone (since Jeff hates Vegas) but I will be there and I will love it fully!

Anyone else want to go with me?

we could do a girl trip or something like that.

Okay, that is all the blogging I plan to do this week.

I will touch base on Friday after Jeff (and probably me) have had a chance to rest.

And his colon will be super clean by then. :)

We Are Able To Laugh At Days to Come...

Jeff is having a colonoscopy Thursday, just in case you have been living under a rock and have not read the blog in awhile.



When Jeff is nervous he starts making jokes.



Needless to say, my sides have been hurting because I have been laughing a great deal the last few weeks.



It started when we were sitting in the waiting room the first doctor's visit.



The nurse at the check in desk was starring at us. I did not notice this because my nose was in a book. But I heard a chuckle from the "great beyond" looked up and saw her covering her mouth trying not laughing. I realized she was laughing at us, since we were the only people in the waiting room. Jeff had a pen pressed to his temple and his face was screwed up in a fashion that made you realize he was in deep, deep thought. The nurse begins to explain to me that she has never seen someone in such deep concentration like my husband is now.



Jeff says "I just don't want to forget any of my family history-we are sick people, you know."



I died laughing. Then proceeded to tell Jeff and the whole nursing staff about my first visit to the new OB/GYN. When the new form asked you to list your family's history I listed them under my own history. You can imagine the doctor's dismay and how worried she was that a 29 year old female could have all of these "issues." I realized my mistake after the exam and had to go back to fill out a new form. The doctor died laughing because she was happy to know that I was not about to die and in fact, was healthy as a horse.



So after Jeff finishes the form, they take him back to the examine room to get his vitals. His blood pressure was off the charts. The nurse says, "Your blood pressure is through the roof."
To which Jeff replied, "No S---, I am about to have a man sticking something up my a--hole." I died laughing because not only does Jeff get funny when he is nervous but apparently he also cusses like a sailor.



Jeff hadn't finished filling out all the paperwork so in between the weigh in, blood pressure and other vital signs Jeff would go back to filling out the form. The nurse says, "Sir put the pen down. We still have work to do." So he threw it down then turned to me and smiled timidly because I was there to witness him acting like a 3 year old. At this point, tears are forming in my eyes not because I was scared but because I was laughing so hard.



I have never had this much fun at the doctor's office.



Fast forward a bit.



The doctor tells the nurse to bring us into his office because he won't do an exam today but just wanted to get some information from Jeff. Jeff who at this point, was white as a ghost, sweating profusely and hands very, very clammy stood up and said, "Praise Jesus!" Now this is something that I say very often, Jeff has never spoken with this much passion. I learned this saying from one of my African American friends, I love this about her. She is always quick to "Praise Jesus" when something or someone blesses her. So when Jeff said this just like she does, I started to laugh. Because he was "Praising Jesus" because the manly doctor would not be "sticking his finger up his a-- that day" (to quote Jeff)

Now as we are sitting in the doctor's office who also has a great sense of humor, I could not contain myself. The two of them discussing Jeff's "issues" was just way too funny to me. I laughed and laughed and laughed.

Later as we were driving home Jeff turns to me and says, "Well did you enjoy yourself today?"

And I, still laughing said, "Oh yes. Yes I did!" Then I felt bad because I had just spent the last hour and a half laughing at my husband. He said "Don't worry your day will come and I can laugh at you."

I said, "Sounds like a plan to me."

Because really, what's the point in taking life too seriously. Our laughter is what has kept us from totally freaking out after all. And I am so thankful to have a husband that is able to laugh at the days to come as well.

Keep him in your prayers though because I know as the days get closer he will not be laughing as much. I am afraid that the white as a ghost, clammy hands will return. But we will take it one day at a time-walking by faith every step of the way.

Please forgive him Lord, for who knows what words may come flying out of his mouth this week.

Oh Yes I Did and I am Proud Of It

I spent the weekend watching this and getting therapy for my crush on him and now I am watching this.


Jeff says I need help. I disagree.

It's for a good cause after all, at least now I can be on the same page with my nieces and all the other screaming girls in America.

But at least, AT LEAST I can admit that I love this sort of thing.

It's the best of both worlds...I can be a kid by night and a big, responsible grown up by day.

It's like it, it's like I am a Super Woman or Wonder Woman... No it's like, it's like I am CAT WOMAN. Super hot in black Lycra and able to kick some @#@ at the same time.

Why do I have a sudden craving for milk? In a bowl. And am licking my had and rubbing my head in an effort to cleanse thyself!

Cheers and Jeers

One of my favorite sections of the newspaper is the "Cheers and Jeers" section. So here is my cheers and jeers from this week. It has been a crazy week.

Cheers-to this sweet person for sending me her ornament pattern. I am heading to the local craft store to pick up the supplies and get started. Oh and Happy Birthday, Barb. You have been an inspiration to me in the blog world.

Jeers-to the long, tedious meeting on Monday. The one that I left for at 8 am and didn't get home until almost 7 pm

Cheers- to the many sweet comments and emails this week when I told you what was happening in the "Real World". I am so blessed to have friends, blog friends and family who are willing to pray right alongside us.

Jeers- to the 4 reports that had to be done in less that 6 hours that normally take me double that time.

Cheers-I did finish the reports in a timely manner and was able to sleep 7 hours that night.

Jeers-to the little lizard that jumps out at me every time I walk into my house. It's a cute little thing really-I have watched it grow from baby to adolescents but is is necessary that we play "hide and seek" late at night.

Cheers-to being able to steal Faith for the night. It has been so long since it has just been the two of us. I will always hold a special place in my heart for her because she was the first niece in my life. She is growing so much this summer inside and out and I just love watching her blossom into a beautiful woman of God.

Jeers-to the lack of quality role models that our little girls do not have in the celebrity world.

Cheers to the movie "A Cinderella Story" a great movie for little girls with a great story of being true to the person you were created to be

Jeers-to the long week at work

Cheers to the new baby Amie and Bradley adopted this week.

Cheers to the community of friends and family that surrounded them this week when the birth mother wanted to change her mind. Prayer is a powerful weapon!

Cheers to the birth mother for making one of the hardest decisions of her life but one of the best decisions. I continue to praise God for her and pray for this sweet teenage girl.

Cheers to the weekend and spending time with friends.

Jeers to the laundry that has been piled up all week that I must tackle today.

Cheers to the morning cup of coffee with my mom

Jeers to her moving away from us in two weeks. She won't be far but not as close as 10 steps ever again.

Cheers to her moving forward in her life. Mom, have I told you how proud I am of you lately?

Jeers-to the coffee that is now running through me to make me stop blogging with all my peeps.

Cheers to blogland!

Seriously, I need to close

Happy Weekend everyone-do something you love or someone....

(I crack myself up!)

MAKE IT STOP

It started at 8:30 a.m this morning and it is now approaching 8:30 p.m and I am still at it.





IT- is the many little projects that must either be emailed or mailed by tomorrow morning and were giving to me this morning. All of which are long and tedious and very, very time consuming!



It is also the fellow co-worker who called this morning at 8:00 am and left a message saying,

"I thought you said you would answer the phone for the team before 9:00 am."

I have NEVER answered the phone that early for anyone, ask my family and friends they will vouch for me. I answer the phone between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm, if you are related to the office in any way shape or form, that is when I answer the phone. Just because I work at home doesn't mean I want to work all the time.


Sigh.

Is it Friday yet? I guess I will go put a pot of coffee on because this chick is pulling an all nighter I am afraid.

Do you want to see into the inner working of a furniture sales rep?

(edited to add: I had a picture posted but some information was shown that probably shouldn't be pictured for all the world to see. Sorry, I would love to show you the inner sanctum but I signed a confidentiality agreement and I could get fired. Plus the bosses contact info and financial stuff is posted on my bulletin board and when you click on the picture it comes up in all it's glory. I will post a picture later after I clean out the secret stash)



Oh where oh where is my little assistant Faith?

My 8 year old niece spent the night with me this week and she helped me put together catalogs the next day. I sat and watched her without her knowing I was doing so and boy she has such a great work ethic. I am one proud Aunt! And she offered to help, I swear I did not force this on her. But I think what floored me even more is when she finished all her work and said, "Can I do more? I love helping you."

Ahh.


Now I think I can go back to work-if Faith can do it, I can do it!

Oh and if anyone mentions the fact that I should be working instead of blogging, I will clobber you. I am procrastinating folks. Procrastinating!

This chick is allowed a break every now and then, right??

God is Faithful, Y'all!

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."



2 Corinthians 4:17-18



The first time I read this verse, I was sitting on my bed praying for my family situation. In the other room, my mom and step-dad were having an escalated fight in the middle of the living room. I didn't know what to do, I was terrified and I knew it would only get worse if I made an appearance. I began to pray as hard as I could that God would provide a way out for my mom and I. That man, my step dad, was an evil, cruel person. He was a wolf in sheeps clothing. But God was faithful. He blessed me through that verse. I prayed it many times during that period in my life. And God proved Himself by providing a way out for us.



The second time this verse grabbed my attention yet again, I was sitting in my room at the house I rented while in college. I was making a hefty decision that night, should I stay or should I go. It was not easy realizing that I would not finish my college degree at ACU. I hated to leave but I knew that God was telling me not to focus on the here and now but on the Him and the rest of the story would be written later.



The third time this verse caught my attention,was the other night after I wrote this post. If you were sitting on my side of the screen, you would of seen many tears and pacing across the room and prayer-lots of prayers lifted up to the heavens that night. It was the first time that I allowed my emotions to get the better of me. God was faithful. Since that night, I have felt a sense of peace like never before.



I have been filled.



The next morning, during the "Daniel Study" by Beth Moore she quoted this verse. The same one that has always served as God's reminder to me that He is faithful. It was like He was reminding me, yet again, that He will see us through. I sat and quoted it under my breath right along with Mrs. Beth. Oh how this verse speaks to me!


Later in our prayer time, I shared with the ladies what I just told all of you. I love this verse. But more importantly I love the fact that God once again has proven His faithfulness to me. You see, He didn't have to prove Himself. Just like He didn't have to in high school and college. But He did. Why? He is faithful. As well as loving, kind, patient, quick to forgive, selfless and compassionate to name a few.



I realize that there are things that we must go through in order for God's work to be made complete. It's not easy nor is it fun. But I believe it is necessary. Necessary for us to grow in Christ and to rest in Him. I believe it is important for us to realize that this too shall pass. That yes, this world will have trouble and we will have hard times. But God wants to and will see us through.



"In my weakness, He is made strong." And isn't' that really what it is all about?! To God be the glory, to God be the glory.



Oh and just remember, He is faithful, y'all.



He is faithful.

For The Teachers Out There...

(I recieved this email this week and thought it was blog worthy!)

NO PARENT LEFT BEHIND

I promise you cannot read these and not laugh out loud. These are REAL >> notes written by PARENTS in a Tennessee school district. (Spellings >> have been left intact.)

1-- MY SON IS UNDER A DOCTOR'S CARE AND SHOULD NOT TAKE PE TODAY. PLEASE EXECUTE HIM.

2-- PLEASE EXKUCE LISA FOR BEING ABSENT SHE WAS SICK AND I HAD HER SHOT

3-- DEAR SCHOOL: PLEASE ECSC's JOHN BEING ABSENT ON JAN 28, 29, 30, 31,32 AND ALSO 33.

4-- PLEASE EXCUSE GLORIA FROM JIM TODAY. SHE IS ADMINISTRATING.

5-- PLEASE EXCUSE ROLAND FROM P.E. FOR A FEW DAYS. YESTERDAY HE FELL OUT OF A TREE AND MISPLACED HIS HIP.

6-- JOHN HAS BEEN ABSENT BECAUSE HE HAD TWO TEETH TAKEN OUT OF HIS FACE.

7-- CARLOS WAS ABSENT YESTERDAY BECAUSE HE WAS PLAYING FOOTBALL. HE WAS; HURT IN THE GROWING PART.

8-- MEGAN COULD NOT COME TO SCHOOL TODAY BECAUSE SHE HAS BEEN BOTHERED BY VERY CLOSE VEINS.

9-- CHRIS WILL NOT BE IN SCHOOL CUS HE HAS AN ACRE IN HIS SIDE.

10-- PLEASE EXCUSE RAY FRIDAY FROM SCHOOL HE HAS VERY LOOSE VOWELS.

11-- PLEASE EXCUSE PEDRO FROM BEING ABSENT YESTERDAY. HE HAD (DIAHRE, >> DYREA, DIREATHE), THE SH**S. NOTE: [WORDS IN ( )'S WERE CROSSED OUT. (Love it!)

12-- PLEASE EXCUSE TOMMY FOR BEING ABSENT YESTERDAY. HE HAD DIARRHEA, AND HIS BOOTS LEAK.

13-- IRVING WAS ABSENT YESTERDAY BECAUSE HE MISSED HIS BUST.

14-- PLEASE EXCUSE JIMMY FOR BEING. IT WAS HIS FATHER'S FAULT. {You >> know, this could be legit!}

15-- I KEPT BILLIE HOME BECAUSE SHE HAD TO GO CHRISTMAS SHOPPING BECAUSE DON'T NOW WHAT SIZE SHE WEAR.

16-- PLEASE E XCUSE JENNIFER FOR MISSING SCHOOL YESTERDAY WE FORGOT TOGET THE SUNDAY PAPER OFF THE PORCH, AND WHEN WE FOUND IT MONDAY. WE THOUGHT IT WAS SUNDAY.

17-- MY DAUGHTER WAS ABSENT YESTERDAY BECAUSE SHE WAS TIRED. SHE SPENT WEEKEND WITH THE MARINES.

18-- PLEASE EXCUSE JASON FOR BEING ABSENT YESTERDAY. HE HAD A COLD AND COULD NOT BREED WELL.

19-- PLEASE EXCUSE MARY FOR BEING ABSENT YESTERDAY. SHE WAS IN BED WITH GRAMPS.

20-- GLORIA WAS ABSENT YESTERDAY AS SHE WAS HAVING A GANGOVER.

21-- PLEASE EXCUSE BRENDA. SHE HAS BEEN SICK AND UNDER THE DOCTOR.

22-- MARYANN WAS ABSENT DECEMBER 11-16, BECAUSE SHE HAD A FEVER, SORETHROAT, HEADACHE AND UPSET STOMACH. HER SISTER WAS ALSO SICK, FEVER AND SORE THROAT, HER BROTHER HAD A LOW GRADE FEVER AND ACHED ALL OVER. I WASN'T THE BEST EITHER SORE THROAT A ND FEVER. THERE MUST BE SOMETHING GOING AROUND, HER F ATHER EVEN GOT HOT LAST NIGHT.

NOW WE KNOW WHY PARENTS ARE SCREAMING FOR BETTER EDUCATION FOR OUR KIDS.

The Real World Post

To the Real World Friends out there,

Let's pretend we are sitting side by side, chatting up a storm, a gallon of Mint Chocolate Chip sits between us on the coffee table and we are eating it as fast as we can. Let's pretend that we have spent the whole day laughing and catching up and now our conversation has turned to the question, "How can I pray for you?" Because for some reason, on this hot summer evening, I miss my chicks and I could use a good heaping of your prayers. I miss the lengthy conversations over a gallon of our favorite ice cream, jumping from laughter to tears back to laughter again.

Things are so hectic in my world these days that I just want time to sit for awhile and do what I WANT TO DO. That is why last Saturday was so good for me. I needed my husband for a little bit without work obligations looming over my head. God knew that our life was about to take a turn so He provided time for us to just chill.

Our life has turned, no not really turned but tilted for a little bit. And in order for us not to completely fall head first onto the ground, we are clinging to each other and to our faith. We are trying, even though it is not easy, to take it one day at a time. Today I am sad, most days I take it all in stride but today, I am sad...it's a bad day.

Jeff went to the doctor last week for a few issues. He is having a colonoscopy done August 23 to check a few things out. Colon cancer runs in his family, in fact, his grandmother died of colon cancer. On a good day, I am totally confident that God will see us through no matter what happens. But on the bad days, I am scarred and find myself too afraid to pray to God. Because what if God does bring the worse? What would I do if I lost the best thing that has ever happened to me? Would I lose my faith? Would my faith grow? Would I be able to make it through? You see, I told you today was a bad day.

This past Sunday, our little group at church sang "You Raise Me Up," boy howdy, did I almost loose it. Especially after our sermon on "Not Our Plans But God's Plans." When I stood up their singing, I was so close to crying a puddle of tears that I had to close my eyes and just sing from my heart. I did not open them until the song was done, I would have lost it if I would have looked at my friends sitting in the audience. Even though most of them will find out about all of this after reading this post. Sorry peeps, I didn't want to talk about it until now.

I mean most days it doesn't even phase me. I mean I am walking by faith, right? Or I am just living in a state of denial? Why is it that some days we walk with total serenity with God while other days we worry with what God is about to do? I mean, I prayed this morning, I prayed this afternoon, in fact, I prayed without ceasing, but I still find myself in a helpless state of mind. Am I missing the big picture or does God have me right where I need to be? I lean toward the later.

"You raise me up so I can stand on mountains. You raise me up to walk on stormy seas. I am strong when I am on your shoulders. You raise me up, to more than I can be."

Oh Lord, I pray that it is true. I pray that the little "Tilt-A-World" ride you have for us will not leave us wanting to puke our guts out but leave us wanting more because it brings us that much closer to you in the end.

You see friends, this is the time where you would be assuring me that God is ultimately in control but that it is okay to cry. This is the time that you would grab my hand and say, "Let's pray this out." Man, do you remember the times that we have prayed together over the years? What a blessing you all have been to me! God knew what He was doing when He brought us all together. I may not be able to grab your hand tonight but I feel at peace. I know that I have the greatest group of friends who will actually stop their day and say a little pray for us. And I will pray for you too, I know that many of you have also been pushed on the "Tilt-A-World" ride as well.

Thanks for being a sounding board tonight, I love you all!

I Love Being An Aunt!

A Song In My Heart

For the last two weeks I have noticed that when I wake up, I am singing a different Christan song. It's almost like my spirit is singing to God even though I am not fully aware or awake. When I told a friend about this, they suggested that I start writing down the songs each morning and see if I can find a pattern.

Here are some of the lyrics that I have on my heart when I wake up this past week.

"I sing a melody in my heart for you..."

"My Adonai, I lift up my heart and I cry, my Adonai. The maker of each moment author of my heart..."

"Because somewhere in the course of this life my little boy will need a godly wife, so hold on to Jesus baby wherever you are..."

"And maybe my eyes can't see, that you are surrounding me, Here in the wind and rain, the things that I know, tender and sweet and strong as my need, I know the voice, I know the touch lover of my soul."

Not a bad way to wake up in my opinion, not a bad way at all.

It's a busy weekend so I am off to get things done.

Happy Saturday!

Life Learning Skills By Willard Tate

One of my favorite classes while attending ACU was the class by Willard Tate called "Life Learning Skills." It was a class that everyone took. You either wanted the easy A or you wanted to hear what all the fuss was about. Truth is, no matter what your reasons, you walked away from that class having a different perspective on life.

At the beginning of the class, he had us write a bunch of little facts on 3 x 5 cards. These facts would be our final. We were to learn them and learn them well. I kept them in a green plastic index card box, similar to a recipe box. When Jeff and I got married and we were merging our stuff, he looked inside this box and said, "Why do you still have these?" I couldn't really give him a good enough answer but I said something to the effect of "they are mine and they are staying." I should of been a lawyer with those arguing skills.

Last week I was in a cleaning frenzy. I have been selling my old books on Amazon so I was standing on a stool in my closet throwing books down from the top shelf that didn't make the cut. When I spied this little box sitting in the corner. I opened it up and started to read the cards. Thirty minutes passed, I was still dangling on this stool reading each and every one of them. There is over a 100 facts about life, leadership, happiness, etc, etc.

Each time I read these cards, I am inspired to be a better person. Maybe that is why I haven't thrown these cards away yet. They inspire me!

Here are a few for you and I promise to share more with you from time to time.

What is the difference between a winner and loser?
A winner thinks he deserves a little but owes a lot

A loser thinks he deserves a lot but owes a little

Three ways to overcome procrastination?
1. Write goals on 3x5 cards and take it with you.
2. Get a "to-do" list
3. Develop a new attitude toward failure.

What should you work harder on than anything else? Yourself

Where you IS, is where you IS.

How does the future come? One day at a time

Repetition is... the mother of mastery

How long should you use repetition? As long as it takes

What must you do in order to finish? Get started


P.S I am curious to know if any of you other fellow ACU'ers kept these cards or was I the only pack rat?

These Are The Days

I made a promise to myself after the last negative pregnancy test to quit worrying about the future and start living in the moment. This thought process has been very freeing for me. I am blessed.

Due to this new found, freedom to live each day to fullest, I have been doing just that.

Friday night, Jeff and I debated whether or not to go out on the town or stay home and just chill. We chose the later. He watched Bourne Identity while I sat at our dining room table to scrapbook. (I love having my newly organized scrapbook to where I can do as much or as little without pulling out ever little thing)

Saturday morning we drove to the local train station to catch a train to Downtown Fort Worth for the day. We only live 15-20 minutes from Downtown but we love riding the train. On the train, we met a man who was in his late 70's. This man was traveling to one of the local shelters to preach to the children there. He has been doing this for 20 years. I was not the one sitting closest to him so Jeff carried the conversation. It was a tender moment for me seeing the man Jeff is becoming. A man who goes outside of himself to talk to others, perfect strangers in fact. As I listened to Jeff and this man converse, the scripture about entertaining angels kept popping in my head.

After the train ride, we caught the "Bourne Ultimatum" matinee feature, for the two of us it was only $8. We love matinees. Plus the movie was very, very good. Not as good as one and two but still good.

Afterwords, we headed to our favorite burger joint for lunch. Jeff kindly suggested that I hold down a table close to the window while he placed our order. So while he ordered, I sat and read my recent book. Two hours later we left the restaurant, fully fed and fully relaxed from just taking a moment to sit with nothing on our schedule.

We then headed to our favorite bookstore and again sat for another grand length of time while we perused our favorite authors and magazines.

At one point, Jeff and I even talked about the song by 10.000 Maniacs where I borrowed the title for my post. We dubbed that song our theme song because soon life will change for us. And even though we will always be able to head to downtown Fort Worth, it may never be just like this one day. Where time stood still for a brief moment and we were able to just enjoy living in the moment.

We are blessed.

25 Ways To Be Good To YOURSELF

I found this list while decluttering this week. I thought I would post it here so I could throw recycle the paper this list is on. I actually got this from my OB awhile back. I have saved it for almost a year. This means I am either a pack rat or I was extremely inspired by this.

1. Excercise...take a walk.
2. Relax in a bubble bath.
3. Keep a journal.
4. Go window shopping.
5. Ask for help.
6. Take a class...learn somthing new.
7. Make time for yourself.
8. Enjoy time with your favorite people.
9. Give yourself a pat on the back.
10. Eliminate stressful activities.
11. Eat a well-balanced diet.
12. Treat yourself to a foot massage/pedicure.
13. Be optimistic.
14. Dance
15. Keep things in perspective.
16. Laugh out loud.
17. Turn Off the Phone and Email/Blogging. (I added the last part )
18. Sleep well...take a short nap
19. Schedule mandtory fun.
20. Sit quietly for fifteen minutes.
21. Go on a media fast.
22. Star gaze. (My two sense: Actual stars not Hollywood type stars. LOL!)
23. Make a list of postive things in your life.
24. Really take time to smell the roses.
25. Pamper Yourself.

Happy Weekend!

Now Turn off the Computer and enjoy your family, friends and whatever else that brings you joy!

I Never Won the Quiet Game Growing Up

This week has been busy. Good busy. Not pulling my hair out at the end of the day busy, but sighing with satisfaction for all that I have done that day.



Ask me if I worked out? NO. And proud of it!


I did, however clean out my scrapbook closet, made over $100 selling used books on Amazon.com (thank you Ashley for the inspiration!), read "The Testament", did some projects for work and folded all of our laundry and put it away after it came out of the dryer.



Plus, J and I narrowed down the house hunt. That officially started August 1st. We are so ready to move that I am having a hard time not packing up the whole apartment right this very minute. Then living out by the curb until the movers arrive...90 days from now. I have always been like this. I was packed and ready to go to camp weeks before we were to leave. It's not that I have my life that put together that I am able to pack weeks in advance, it's that the anticipation to leave drives me to get ready fast.



We have found 3 houses that fit our needs. We plan to contact our realtor friend in a few weeks (tomorrow if I had my way)to have him take us on a tour. I continue to pray over this one house that it will not be sold before we get over there. I doubt that it will because it has been on the market for 3 months now already. If it is gone, than no worries it's not the house for us. I have my bible study chicks praying that God give us clear direction on where to buy. We sort of know the area we want but we always go back to this older neighborhood that is being restored close to Downtown Fort Worth. Those houses have lots of character and don't look all the same. No offense, but I hate those newer neighborhoods were all the houses are identical. I know some of you love it, I hate it though. I have always beaten my own drum...ALWAYS.



Anyways, do you want to see pictures of my scrapbook closet before and after? Okay.





Here's the Before...

Here's The After

I took out our winter coats and placed those in our closet. Most of my coats I am giving away this year because they are either too small or need to be retired (if you know what I mean). These shelves I used to store all of our catalogs for work in my patio storage. But now that I work once a week at my bosses office, she told me to bring all the catalogs there. So now this shelf can be used inside for all my goodies. I put all of the stamping stuff on the bottom shelf. The third shelf is for my paper box and my embellishment container. The second shelf is my punches, ribbons and rulers. The top shelf is my other stamp box that I take with me on weekend crops and my photo boxes.
The flower box and basket on the top shelf is the nieces and nephew stash. Coloring Books, Barbie Dolls and puzzles are confined to those two things. Uncle Jeff and I made a decision this week to throw out the stuff that they never played with or if it had 100 pieces to it, we threw it out. They will never miss this stuff, I gurantee it
My paper rack. I store all of my solid paper here and my patterned paper is stored in a paper box. It's in my car at this moment but I will photograph it for you scrapbook people out there. It it very handy and keeps my papers organized. I bought this paper rack through a company online with a Christmas bonus two years ago. It comes in handy when you are working at home. Very easy to find what I need when it is organized.
As you can see, I have been busy. One day soon, I will photograph all the little things I use to organize this place. Because if you scrapbook as much as I do, you tend to always look for ways to keep the stuff from overflowing into your house. Plus I love order and being able to find things rather quickly. Call me crazy but that is just the way I roll.

Happy Birthday Chandra!

To my Sweet friend,

I hope you are having a great day. A day filled with laughter and love.

I am so glad that we were able to meet that one fateful summer when we shared an apartment together. Our memories we made still make me laugh. You have been such a blessing to me. I am so thankful that I was able to walk along side you in prayer with Canon's transplant. That time forever transformed my prayer life and for that I am so very thankful that God brought us together again for that time.

I love you, miss you and hopefully one day soon will get to hug your sweet neck.

Enjoy your day!

Love

Susan

P.S This is still my favorite photo of yours because of what you are wearing. I love that you are wearing pink with your camo skirt. That is the perfect combination in my opinion.

Taking Time Out

Life has been going non-stop.

I'm trying to find balance so that I can enjoy the ride.

I will be back at some point...

possibly a few days from now.

But until then take some time to relax.

Life is better when you live it fully!

Simplifying My Life One Topic At A Time

It's no secret that I love order. I like everything to have it's place and a place for everything. If I don't have a place for everything I get rid of it.

I recently realized though that my need to have order comes from a direct result from the events that took place between 1994-2000, when my life was very hectic and very much out of my control. Someday I will share this with you but those years aren't really the subject of this post.

The point is, I am working on a few things in order to simplify my life. Oh and before I forget, let me give a shout out to Marcia, the author of "Simplify Your Life" and "Simplify Your Time." I started reading her book in Barnes and Noble every Friday night when Jeff and I would go there to catch up on our reading. Who knew that one day she would have lunch with my mom and attend the same church where my mom and brother work? In the meantime, she has blessed me with a copy of her books so that I can read in my own home at my own pace. And one day soon, if we can coordinate our calendars we plan to have coffee or something to get to know each other better.

But again, Marcia is not the reason for this post. I just felt like I couldn't tell you about my simplifying without telling you about the person who has inspired me to do so.

Topic #1

The Blog. Who here has been overtaken by the blog? I know I have. I created a gmail account separate from my personal account. I also signed up with a thing called Google reader. Google Reader is a lot like bloglines, where you can subscribe to certain sights and they will notify you when a new post has been added to that blog. Before I just stored all my favorite blogs in a favorites folder on the Internet and clicked through each one at random times throughout the day to see if anyone had posted something new. Talk about a joy kill when everyone but you is taking a break from blogland. Plus not to mention the time that was wasted clicking through every single blog of mine. So...Google Reader is a must have for me.

I signed up, picked out my all time favorites, like family and friends. Then picked out my blogs who I consider friends but never have met. Then I deleted the favorite blogs from my favorites so that I would break the habit of clicking through every blog. I click on Google reader once a day. At the same time, I look to see if anyone has left a comment on my blog at gmail, since now my blog comments go to my gmail account rather than my personal email. It takes a big ole helping of self-control but I know that once I break this habit my life will be so much more balanced.

And that after all is the key to a well rounded life is in my opinion, balance.

So friends if you are looking for a good book to get your life in order so that things can be simple than check out Marcia's book. It is a must read for new mothers especially. You will be glad you did!

If you have ways that you keep the blog from overtaking you I would love to hear them!

Please Close Your Windows...

I will post pictures of our weekend fun later but I am not in the mood to hassle with it tonight.

But I had to share this story with you all before I forgot. Get ready it's a great one...

We surprised MIL and FIL with a 40th anniversary party this past weekend in Downtown Fort Worth. My BIL's girlfriends mother (are you with me? good) has a loft apartment in Fort Worth that has a Garden Terrace that overlooks the city. To say I was not some what jealous would be a slight overstatement. It was fabulous!

So the apartments are located next to a hotel that also overlooks the city. As we were sitting up that afternoon, I mentioned to BIL's girlfriend on how fun it is to be this close to this hotel. She says "I know I am always afraid that I am going to catch someone in the act."

"Seriously, you think someone would keep the windows open knowing they are in the middle of Sundance Square?"

To which she replied with something along the lines of it could happen or I wouldn't put it past them.

So through out the night, as we are refilling drinks, setting out food, cleaning dishes we kept one eye out on the hotel. It was right next door y'all. We saw someone blow drying their hair, talking on their cell phone as they looked out the window, sitting on the bed watching television, children jumping on the bed and a parent grabbing by the arm to "park it." But then. THEN oh my gosh I can't believe what I am about to tell you.

Later into the evening we were sitting out on the patio enjoying the cool breeze and the sounds of Downtown Fort Worth. When I happen to look over my shoulder to the hotel behind me. And here is the part where you must know me to really find this funny, I am not a quiet wallflower by any means. Okay?!

"OH MY GOSH! THERE 'BOUT TO DO IT!"

All heads at the party turn and we start to see what is going to happen next. Oh yes, we did. Although Hayley (my 9 year old niece) was trying to figure out what all the fuss was about. I think every single person at that party said at one time, "Whatever you do Hayley-do not turn around." Which she didn't because she knew we all meant business.

Here is what we saw:

Young 20-something female in black nightie on the phone with a friend. Young 20-something male in boxer briefs walking around hotel room. Female hangs up. He kisses her. She jumps on top of him and they start to wrestle. Truly it was just a wrestling match folks. He gets up, puts on pants over his boxers and turns to the window to "adjust himself." And at this point, all the males in our party are yelling things like, "Score!" "Sweet!" You know the typical congratulatory remarks that most men do after one of their own species happens to uh, mate!

And the girls at the party, well let's just say we were a little more disgusted with the 20 something females behavior.

Do remember the FRIENDS episode where Phoebe catches Chandler and Monica "doing it" from ugly naked guys apartment? And she starts to yell, "Oh my eyes, my eyes!" That was my reaction. I could not believe (actually I can believe it) that someone would keep the windows open when they are half dressed, either about to do it or just finished their romp in the hotel room.

Way to make your mother proud, 20 something chick in black nightie. Way to make her proud!

And no, the pictures I will post are not from this story. Get your head out of the gutter!

Happy Birthday Jeff!

Today I was typing the "Sunday Word" post when Jeff walked in the room. He says, "Oh are you writing about me again?"

I said, "No not today."

"Why? I thought I was your blog material. Am I not good enough anymore?"

To which I replied, "Yeah, when you keep saying stuff like that I guess you are great blog material."

So for his birthday I do what any good wife with there own blog does, I make a post in honor of Jeff.

Jeff's favorite song these days is "Rock Star" by Nickel back. He knows every single word and sings them proudly. And when I saw this post today I knew there was no greater post for my husband on his birthday.

So in honor of my favorite Rock Star, on his birthday, I give you his list.

1. He knows every single word to every Van Halen song ever made.
2. If he doesn't know the lyrics he makes up his own. His version of the lyrics are hilarious and often make me laugh very, very loud. (And for those of you who know me and know my tendency for loud laughter can only imagine the sound that echos through our car or house during these times)
3. He is loyal.
4. He knows when to say no when he has too much on his plate.
5. He listens more than he speaks. But when he speaks, people stop to listen because you know if he is speaking up then he must have something important to say.
6. He can perform the dance called the "White Man's Overbite" better than any man out there.
7. He likes to perform this dance when I am in a bad mood. I start laughing and the bad mood slips away.
8. He spends wisely. I found a Christmas card from my grandparents two years ago when cleaning out one of his drawers, the money they gave him is still there. When I asked if he was going to use it he says, " When I find something I can't live without I am there."
9. He is a great uncle which can only mean he will be a great father one day.
10. He loves me warts and all.


And now for my newest favorite picture of Jeff.
We were having a party this weekend for his parent's 40th anniversary. I had a bunch of songs downloaded to the IPOD so we could party like it's 1967. I downloaded the Beach Boys, "California Girls" in honor of niece Hayley who was born in Cali. Her sweet Uncles Jumped at a chance to dance with Miss Hayley. I will let the picture speak for itself.

Happy Birthday Jeff! Thank you for all the joy that you have brought into my life!

Oh, by the way, if you aren't going to use that money my grandparents gave you, can I have it? I have my eye on a cute little dress that I saw today while shopping in the mall...without you to nag me! :)

Yeah, yeah I know...wait until it goes on clearance.

Sigh...

Sunday's Good Word

This morning I woke up with the following scripture circulating in my head. It was like God was speaking this directly into my ear this morning. So if you are struggling with a life changing decision or even if you find yourself at a crossroad, I believe this scripture is for you.

This is one of the main reasons why I continue memorizing scripture. You never know when God will bring that same scripture back to you-sometimes it is for me other times it is for others. Please know that if these words speak directly to you than God must of had a plan in waking me from my slumber early this morning to get these jotted down for you. May you be blessed.

My Precious Child,

"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) For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) You will seek me and you will find me when you seek me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29: 13)Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for you an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So fix your eyes not on what is seen but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.(1 Corinthians 4:17-18)"

With Love ,

Your Heavenly Father

Thankful Thursday #1

Last night after my husband left for work, I realized that there have been many times that he has gone over the call of duty yet I am not saying thanks near as much as I should. So in an effort to get it all in writing so I can tell it to his face when he wakes up, I am joining in on Thankful Thursday.

1. Jeff kept the house clean while I was away on a business trip. There is nothing better than walking into a house that is clean especially when you weren't the one keeping it that way. But you did stay up late the night before getting it that way.

2. He made dinner Tuesday night when I got in hours earlier than planned. He didn't have to do this but he did and didn't even grumble about it.

3. He made dinner because I was taking a nap. I slept for 2 hours that day because I did not get much sleep on my business trip. He didn't wake me or bother me. In fact at one point I realized he was reading quietly while holding my hand. I was thankful that he recognized my need for uninterrupted sleep.

4. He gets up an hour early to head into church while I practice with the praise team on Sunday morning. He does not need to do this, I have offered to take my own car so he can sleep. He says "Nah, I like having our Sundays together." And I totally agree because this is the one day we get to spend together when we are awake at the same time. It is a precious time for us.

5. He brought me a slice of banana bread that they had served during Sunday school but I missed out because I was downstairs practicing. And he filled a water bottle with lemons so that I could sip on it during the sermon after I got done singing. For those of you who may sing, you understand the need to keep your throat from getting dry. But the fact that he stuffed lemons into the water bottle before we left for church, knowing it was my favorite way to drink water is so precious to me. The guys in our church that sit by us were so amazed that he was able to get the lemons inside the hole. They would say, "How did you do that?" and Jeff replied, "Very carefully!"

6. He always tells me when I sit down, "Beautiful job." Not good job but beautiful job. His encouragement makes my heart soar.

7. He is working on something right now that I need to keep private but I watch him working and organizing and I am simply amazed by this. He is doing such a great job! I have really been proud of how he is going over and beyond the call of duty on this one. I am watching this realizing how blessed I am to have a husband who gets things done. Great job, Jeff!

8. And the last thing that I will mention is that every morning when he comes home from work (I am usually am still sound asleep) he will get into bed and say, "I love you, Susan." I have realized that he will keep saying this until I finally wake from my slumber and say, "I love you Jeff." Seriously today he said it maybe 5 times until I finally woke up and said, "I love you, Jeff." I wonder what would happened if I never woke up to tell him, would he keep going until I did. I hope so, it is a sweet way to wake up.

His birthday is coming up on Monday so hopefully this will be a nice kick off to his birthday celebration. Jeff, I truly thankful for you and all that you have blessed me with in the last 7 years.

Blessings from the Little Things

I woke up in my hotel room today, the coffee pot did not work. Later I plugged in my curling iron to the same plug, it too did not work. That is when I realized that I needed to push that little red buttoen in between the plug holes to "recharge" the outlet. Curling iron turned on, coffee pot started doing it's thing. I did the "Praise Jesus" dance because it was 5:30 a.m and I really, really needed a jumpstart today.

God is good to give us what we need if we just plug ourselves in and let him hit the little red button to "recharge" our outlet.

I am praying for consistency in meeting with Him first. I have a horrible habbit of logging into the computer before I log in to God. Somehow that just doesn't seem right to me.

Lately God has been blessing me with the small details. Like today, I thought I wouldn't be home before my husband went to work. I was home 4 hours before he had to go to work. I curled up in our bed and slept while he read a book and held my hand. And also today, I was told that my meeting in Frisco tomorrow is cancelled. My boss realized I had enough on my plate and did not need to add more stress to my day by driving out to her office when I could easily work out of mine, in my pajamas, with my favorite coffee cup to the left and my cute little mouse pad to my right. There is something so sweet about working in the comfort of your own home surrounded by the things you love.

I continue to see ways that God is molding us and blessing us during this time of waiting and for that I send Him nothing but praise. In the Sunday post I wrote the quote from Nancy's talk last week. When I find myself getting moody and irratible with life's happenings-I fall back to that quote. (If you have yet to read, let me just say you are missing out.) I don't ever want to look back on this phase of my life and say, "I wish I took more time to do this or I wish I did this more." I want to live each day to the fullest and just wait for God to reveal the plans He has for us. It is a wonderful journey when you stop pushing and just start trusting. I just wish I was trusting more than pushing.

Oh and yes, that's a cheetah chair on my profile picture. I am so in love with this chair. I found it and now I am saving up for it. Too bad it is not one of the chairs I sell because I could maybe talk one of my dealers into selling it to me at cost. Did you know that I work for a huge furniture company but I don't a discount when I buy? Yes, it's true-sad but true. So I am doing what every good rep does-get to know the competition and beg for a discount! Cross your fingers, all you can do is ask, right?


Oh I live a blessed life, yes I do, yes I do!

Weekly Menu Planner #2

Monday-Going on a Business Trip


Tuesday-Still tripping with the biz



Wednesday-Chicken Salad Sandwiches and Salt and Pepper Chips



I posted the Chicken Salad Recipe here because it is so good that you shouldn't have to wait on me to post it for you.



Thursday- Cobb Salad



Friday- Ordering Pizza, because this chick is tired!



Saturday-Eating out for the start of Jeff's birthday celebration




This week the menu is being kept very simple because I have a busy, busy week. Poor Jeff will be fending for himself on Monday and Tuesday. This means he will either show up at his parent's house with fork and spoon in hand or he will raid the meal cart at work. I on the other hand will be sitting with my co-workers talking non-stop on ways we can improve the bottom line and cushion our pockets in the process. Fun times! The only saving grace is that I will not be paying for these meals.



Hope you all have a great week! I will be laying low the rest of the time, unless I get bored in the hotel room and decide to log on don't expect to see much of me this week.

Funny side note in a funny God sort of way: I am in the middle of the Daniel Study by Beth Moore. Each day has met me where I am for that paticular day. Today was talking about being a light in the dark world and not neglicting our work. Now if you knew all the things on my to-do list and how many times I have said to myself, "Let's just put it off until I get back." Then you could fully understand how this grabbed me today. Thankfully I have disciplined myself this past week so that when I get back I can have some downtime around here. But in case I don't, at least I am staying on schedule and not falling too far behind! And why did the song by Brooks and Dunn just pop into my head, "I'm in a hurry to get things done..."



Now head on over to see Laura's Menu and what everyone else is cooking up this week.

Sunday's Good Word

May this quote from Nancy speak to you today, soak it up, read it at your leisure, you will be glad you did.

"But Ruth has been willing to forfeit the possiblilty of ever having a husband, ever having children because she knew that ulitmately security is not found in any man, any person, any thing, any experience, or any place on the face of this earth. Ultimately, security is found under God's covering and His protection, under His wings.

A woman who has come to find her resting place in God, whether she's married or single, whether she has children or no children, will be a woman who is protected and cared for. She will be a woman with a refuge.

As I think about Ruth's life, I see in her the result of a woman who takes refuge in God. She was a contented woman. As you read through that story, you find a woman who's got a free spirit. She's free because she's not controlled by her circumstances because her ultimate circumstance is God.

She can trust God to work through others. She still has this bitter mother-in-law but she can trust God to give direction through that mother-in-law even if the person giving direction may not be all that spiritually mature or sensitive, because her trust isn't in her morther-in-law or her husband. She has none.

Her trust is in God. As a result of taking refuge under the wings of God, she has a quiet spirit. She doesn't need to strive to manipulate her circumstances. Thers' a restfulness in the spirit of this woman. Thers' no sense of being frantic, or being in turmoil, but there's a quietness.

I think much of the moodiness and the rowdiness that sometimes characterizes us a women is a reult of insecurity and lack of trust in God. As a result of finding her refuge under the wings of God, she put herself in a position where God could bless her. The blessing begins in her life and God begins now to turn her circumstances. He been planning this all along."

Nancy Leigh Demoss, lesson titled " A Life that Speaks Volumes from her series, "Ruth the Transforming Power of Redeeming Love" originally aired Wednesday, July 11 2007 on Revive Our Hearts

God bless your journey wherever you are today!

A Quick Post Because My TO-DO list Runs A Longer Distance Than ME!

I posted the Turkey Spinach Lasagna recipe here for those of you interested. Check out the other great recipes there too. Yummy! And a big kudos to Rachel for putting this together for all of us cooks, wanna be cooks or cooks in dire need of cooking lessons!

I will try to get the others posted soon but it may be a few days, weeks or months. Have I told you how crazy it is in my house hold this week, next week and the week after that?!? No?!?!

Well boy howdy, I am busy! Work is super, super crazy. You should see my task list I have working in my outlook right now. It would make anyone want to run for the hills. I don't necessarily want to run, I just can't wait to click on the check next to each task to watch to show one more thing complete.

Got to run, my timer told me time is up!

And well, you already know how I like to goof off.

MUST. TAKE. COVER

I just spent $40.72 on ITUNES at one time. I thought I was only buying just a few songs.

Hubby is going to be mad! M-A-D!

No, not really mad but I feel a "We need to go back on a budget" speech coming up soon.

If you don't hear from me for a while just know I have recently started collecting donations door to door. Hopefully I won't be abducted on my adventures!

Mom, you better hide your piggy jar. I feel a strong noreaster to the left may swoop in and suck it dry!

But hey, the music will be good so atleast I will keep myself entertained while I walk door-to-door...collecting spare change.

Guiding Principles #1-3

Sadly I have come to realize that I still require boundaries in my adult life. I work better, I eat better, I live better if I have rules and regulations set forth for my day. At camp we used to call the camp rules "GP's-Guiding Principles." Who knew that in my adult world I would still require a few GP's to live by.

I have been teased by Jeff over the recent months because of my new found love for a regimented schedule. I finally got tired of the taunting one day and asked him in a not so kind and gentle manner, "Don't you see a difference in our house and in my overall attitude when I am following these simple guidelines?!" And of course, his reply was a muttered, "Why yes, yes I do."

Now I am all for guidelines but I have also learned that we have to be flexible to allow ourselves to go as the Spirit moves us, so to speak. I am almost embarrassed to admit this next thing to you. Even though I love a good routine, I am horrible at keeping them. Horrible. I have way too much down time these days and the old saying "Give them an inch and they will take a mile" seems to apply to me and how I handle free time. I will run with it, if it means that I can goof off at my own pace-I run like the wind. Maybe that is why I am always working late into the night or feeling like I never have enough time in my day. Because I am not disciplined enough to use my time wisely.

But it is those days that I wake up early, workout, eat a nutritious breakfast work for a long period, blog for an hour a day, watch an hour of TV or no TV at all, read, cook a balanced meal, a load of laundry a day and so on and so forth. It is in these days that I go to bed happy and satisfied with all I have accomplished. And let me tell you, for a girl who struggles with depression this is a good feeling, no make that a great feeling.

So imagine my surprise when God started showing me scripture that matched up with my desire. Did you know that God can use scripture to transform us? (I am being funny here but seriously did you know this?!?!) The Word of God is an amazing tool for setting up GP'S.

And today's GPs comes from Ruth 2:7

"She went into the field and has worked steadily from morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter."

Indulge me while I break it down for you, myself and anyone else who has read to this point on the blog without getting scared away.

1. She started work in the morning
2. She worked steadily
3. She only took one short break

Point # 1 shows me that she didn't sleep late-she rose early to start her day. This shows me that when I wake up earlier I tend to get more done in my day

Point #2-She was not idle throughout her day. She worked steadily.

Point #3- She only took one short break. Friends, I love break time. I take one every hour. Yes, that's right-work 45 minutes take 15 minutes off. But remember when I said the old saying above. Well my 15 minutes turns into 30 minutes than to an hour and sometimes more. So no more, my GP's for today are the three I listed from Ruth2:7

1) Wake up early
2) Work Steadily throughout my day
3) Only take a short break during my work hours-not 5 to 10, 30 minute breaks

By the way, this deep thinking is brought to you today by Nancy Leigh Demoss, God bless her! So you can catch her full series on Ruth by clicking the nice words that says click here!

And stay tuned, I will share my GPs as God shows them to me. Doesn't mean I will be perfect at them or have them down pat but atleast I am taking the first step. And didn't God send His Son to die on the cross so I didn't have to worry about perfection? Yes, I think He did!

Thank ya Jesus!

Proof that this Chick Is Getting Organized

This is my first time to join Laura in the Menu Planning Monday post.

I have been looking in each week to get ideas but have never gotten my act together far enough in advance to have a whole weeks worth of meals already planned out. But, drumroll please, I have finally gotten my stuff together!

Here's whats cooking in my kitchen this week:

Monday-Spinach Turkey Lasagna

Tuesday-Toasted Almond Chicken with white rice

Wednesday-Beef Stew and Cornbread (slow cooker recipe)

Thursday-Tortilla Pie with Mexican Rice

Friday-Saturday-Depends on the weekend plans

Lately we have been cooking something light and quick on Fridays and renting a DVD to watch. I have realized that keeping it slow on Friday nights, helps my husband, who works nights Monday through Thursday, get back into the swing of things for the weekend. But I NEVER cook on Saturdays, the kitchen is closed that night! It is Saturday night after all!

Let me know if you want a recipe in the comments. These are all from my favorite cookbook and sadly there is not a link on the Internet.

"Uh What," Says Jeff

We were sitting by the pool soaking up a few rays of sun yesterday. Yes that's right, it didn't rain yesterday. I had just mentioned that I was hungry to Jeff.

As we were sitting in our lounge chairs, in walks another tenant who looked like she was about to give birth any minute now.

Jeff says, "Looks like we may have a WATER BIRTH today."

To which I replied "Mmm, WHATABURGER that sounds wonderful!"

"Uh What?!?!" Says Jeff. "I said WATER BIRTH not WHATABURGER!"

And oh did I die laughing!

In my defense, I did just tell him I was hungry.

Deep Thoughts By Susan!

You know, all this rain here in Texas puts a whole new spin on the song by Casting Crowns, "Praise You In The Storm!"

Lord, I'm trying to praise you I promise. It's just that 30+ days of constant rain makes it hard especially when it is summer! Oh and Lord, if I can be so bold please hold out on the rain long enough for me to watch some Rangers at the ballpark this Saturday. I've got me some memories I need to make this weekend in honor of my great grandmother. But thanks for the rain this afternoon, it was the best background music for a great two hour nap. As it was the day before and the day before that and that day two weeks ago. I guess you knew I needed some good quality rest the last 2 months!

In Jesus Name AMEN!

It's the Simple Things

It's the simple things that keep us going through out our day.

The sunrise in the morning.

The first cup of coffee that gets your mind jump started.

The first prayer uttered before the throne in the first hours of the day.

The sound of rain falling...again.

The morning jog-in the rain.

The warm shower that jump starts us even further than the morning Cup of Joe but leaves you smelling super sweet.

The hugs from your husband (or wife).

The emails.

The updated blogs-the sweet comments that take place.

The Christian radio program that speaks directly to you.

The encouragement note received via snail mail. (Thank you friend!)

The prayer answered.

The prayers not answered.

The hearts changed.

The to do list getting done than adding more.

The smell of clean laundry filling up our small space.

Dinner cooked.

Dinner served.

Prayers of blessing for our meal.

Sweet Conversation with my family of two.

Kissing your husband good-bye as he heads to work.

Knowing that you have a few hours to spend doing the things you love.

The good book you can't keep down.

The Bible Study that convicts your Spirit.

The bubble bath after a long day.

The clean, cotton pajama's that feel so good against your skin.

The sheets cool and fresh.

The final prayer for the day-thanking God for the simple things He brings our way.

Happy Fourth of July!

Ususally we spend the weekend before the fourth watching the fireworks at Cousin Doug's house. This year we had no fireworks, a few random ones thrown into the air but nothing like last year. Usually the kids run up to Cousin Caroline's clubhouse and watch the scene high above, this year they ran to the clubhouse but kept yelling, "Where are they? Come out come out wherever you are!" But due to the rain, we did not see fireworks and due to the rain, we will have no picnic out on a blanket tonight with good friends. We could sit out on a blanket but we would look like we would be covered in mud.

So things are a little strange in our neck of the woods. I can tell you what we will be doing. Eating good ole barbeque at Spring Creek tonight and possibly watching a movie at our friend's house. And I can tell you another thing we will be doing. We will be waiting with joyful anticipation for the news that Cousin Kanyon is home. In his own bed, sleeping soundly. 100 days in the hospital and little Kanyon is having his very own independance day. We celebrate with Kory and Jaymie. And we mourn with Kory and Jaymie because words can't describe the feelings they must be feeling. To enter the hospital with two and come out with one. It's in these moments that we take it one step at a time and trust God to bring glory to this situation. If we dwell to long, our hearts may grow bitter or angry and that is not what we are called to do. And if the truth be told, I am not sure how to react to all of this. I just keep praying for God to reveal Himself to me but it seems like He is playing a game of hide and seek. Anyway...enough! I will leave the rest for a post on another day. For now, I am celebrating with my cousin and enjoying my day off with my husband.

God bless you on this 4th of July!

Thank you for Indulging Me!

I promise to come by your space if you have left a comment during the "Unveiling of the Lurkers" week. I love meeting new friends and talking to old friends. It's just that I have a lot on my plate these days so it may take me some time to get there.

Now you are more than welcome to go back to lurking if you would like. But just know that I may do another post to get you to come out again and say hello. If you are like me, I read lots of blogs but comment on a few. I don't always have time to post a comment or even read a post in it's entirety. So I find myself looking in rather quickly then coming back later when I have time to read the post fully. Preferably with a cup of Joe and quiet music playing in the wee hours of the morning. That is why you may see strange time stamps on my comments. Strange because they are done in the small hours of the morning! I am a morning person what can I say.

Okay on to other things. My friend Rachel put together a blog for our group of friends to post recipes called "Whatcha Got Cooking." I thought I would share with you the link so you can get ideas for yourself. I already have a few items in mind that I will post on this blog and some that I may have to try. Thank you Rachel for putting this together, I love seeing what everyone is cooking in their homes. Good times I tell you!

Alrighty roo, I have to run but I have so much more to tell you so I will hop back in when I get the laundry finished, bills paid and the work done. It's Monday and it will be a great week because babies are coming home, babies are being born and babies are celebrating first birthdays! (Deer Run Chicks we need Legs to start her own blog now don't we!)

Love you all!

Got to run! Stay dry if you are in my neck of the woods!

Oh and guess what? It just started to rain...again!