What Would You Do?

What would you do if on your way to bible study you get stopped at a red light?

What if while at this red light-a few drivers from other cars get out and start fist fighting?

What would you do if they were fighting in the lane that you needed to drive through to make it make it to Bible Study on time.

What would you do? Really!

Well I would first check that my doors are locked. Pull around them and turn up Casting Crowns new CD. I then would pray. And wait for the light to turn green. And pray for some divine intervention.

"Dear Lord now would be a good time to um, beam me up Scottie! If I am allowed such a request."

But then when the fighting comes closer to your car again and you are still waiting on the light that will not turn red what would you do?

Well-I sat and watched and laughed at the men.

Especially when another driver gets out of his car and yells to the man, "You "messed" up my car!"

And the other guy says, "So.....something, something something" (hands wagging pointing fingers to the car behind him) And then the man who was fighting gets back in his car.

The guy whose car was "messed" up during the fight, grabs his cell phone and follows the man to Point B. Not sure what happened next because I was driving to Bible Study to learn about the Book of Acts.

Later when I get home, I call Jeff. Who is at work.

We share a cell phone. I use it during the day-he uses it at night. I did not have a cell phone last night and for the first time ever I wished I did have one. But for the record, I don't carry one because I would never use it.

But this morning, Jeff emails me the picture below of a pink gun he found for me. I guess he got a little worried because of the "Fist Fight One Act Play" I witnessed last night. On my way to Bible study-nonetheless. LOL! Isn't she a beauty!?!?

Thirteen Celebrities That I am Tired of Reading About as Front Page News

1. Britney Spears


2. Rosie and Elisabeth's spat


3. Celebrities getting DUI's


4. This guy-who says "I didn't do it!"


5. This chick again! (But he's still cute...)


6. And now this girl is all they talk about


7. The Global Warming Ex-VP


8. Here's my fifty cents on this duo


9. The chick that I am going to call the "Southwest Mini"


10. He's cute but really the girl once kissed her brother with her tongue -I don' t get it!


11. Didn't he retire?!?!


12. Seriously Enough ALREADY!


13. I just posted him on here because of the picture of his hair. Are you playing Samson in a revival of Samson and Deliah?

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Wacky Wednesday

What do you do when your husband works nights and you are all alone and bored?

Read. Watch television. Bask in the glow of the computer screen.

But what do you do when your brother in law is working nights and his girlfriend is home alone too?

The two of you get together and do something wild and crazy...or wacky! Of COURSE!

She came over after work, ate dinner and then we waited until Jeff left for work and went to Hobby Lobby.

Hobby Lobby is having a fantastic sale on all things home decor this week. Not to mention all things Fall.

We walked the ailses until they gave the big annoncement that they were closing for the night.

"Closing time. You don't have to go home but you can't stay here." -Semisonic

So we kept shopping...

I bought a wrought iron pumpkin that was 1/2 off. It's super cute.

But I don't like the color- it's blue. YES BLUE!!!



Don't believe me? Here, see for yourself ...




Can you tell? It's BLUE! When did pumpkins become blue?!?



Next stop was Home Depot which was a quick jaunt to my left.

"To the left, to the left" -Beyonce



Anyway the pumpkin is about to be a pretty rust color, you know almost orange but a little more red. I will post a picture tomorrow. It will be better to paint when the sun comes out tomorrow.



"The sun will come out tomorrow." -Annie

Oh how I love the movie Annie.

Meredith says it was her all time favorite growing up. I told her that I liked her. In fact I told her that i loved her because she loves Annie.

Jenni and I used to be Annie buddies but she had to grow up and be a missionary or something special like that.

Oh Jenni, where for art though Jenni!?!?

(Real World Chicks, let's see if this brings her out of the woodwork!)

Menu Planning-Phase One

I am not going to sit here and tell you that I have menu planning down to fine art or that I do this consistently every week. You see the minute Jeff comes to check to see if his name has been mentioned via the blog (yet again) he will call my bluff, so this chick won't tell you no lies. But I will venture out and tell you that I am getting better and for that Jeff and his full stomach thank me.

Now, I am only writing this because one dear friend recently mentioned to me that she would love a step by step version of my menu plan. And since I am a people pleaser, here it is.

When I started out, I found the whole process very daunting. So today I will only write what I consider to be Phase One.

Phase One-Planning and Compiling the Grocery List

What Phase One will Cover:

1. Pick a Day that Works for You and Your Family
2 Write down 7 meals that work are your family favorite recipes.
3. Get a magnetic notepad to stick to your refrigerator for the household to write down things needed.
4. Make your grocery list by the way the grocery store has the section layed out.
5. Clean Out the Fridge Before You Go.

1. Pick a day that works for you and your family to do your weekly grocery shopping.

What works for me may not work for you and your family but I do my grocery shopping on Tuesday mornings. Two reasons, it is the slowest day and the shelves have been restocked from the weekend rush. Whatever day works for you and your household-stick to that day as best you can. Also, try to get out of the habit of running to the store every time you need to cook. The reason menu planning is helpful is because it should decrease the amount of running back and forth to the grocery store. It also helps you save on the bottom line.

2. Gather your favorite family recipes (enlist their help if you need it) and come up with at least 7 meals.

I usually do not cook 7 meals a week but I do write down seven dinner ideas so that I have "an in case of emergency" meal just in case something comes up with work the next week and I am unable to grocery shop on Tuesday. Gather up the recipes and write down all the ingredients that you will need for that week. Make sure you check the pantry before you put it on the list. At one point I had 15 cans of Red Beans because one recipe called for it and every week I would purchase a can or two thinking I did not have it on hand. (Red Beans and Rice is Jeff's favorite food and my least favorite. Bleck!)

This is also a good time to look at the weekly calendar. If you have lots of late night activities happening then pull out the crock pot recipes. If you have pot luck at church or holiday gatherings, get your list for that too. I got all my holiday food ingredients last year before the holidays and boy did it make like easier.

Only focus on the 7 meals for now, you can add to it but I won't discuss that until Phase Two. Seriously folks, I was so stressed the first time I tried to do this so I am trying not to overwhelm you.


3. Get a magnetic notepad and stick it to the front of the fridge.

I use my notepad so often through out the week that Jeff knows not to take it off the fridge. I write down any and everything we may need. I ran out of Paprika the other day and I threw the empty bottle away then wrote Paprika on my list. No, I don't typically use Paprika all that much but I want to make sure I have it ready for the next time that I do. Jeff is known to put toilet paper on the list when we start to run low.

4. Make a list based on how the grocery store is laid out.

Sarah at In the Midst of It posted a template that she uses a few weeks ago for her menu planning. I made my own at the first of the year in Excel because I am an Excel nerd and get great satisfaction from things like this. If you would like my version, email me at blessedassurances@gmail.com and I will send it to you. I divided mine up into sections based on the layout of my local Wal-Mart. (Deli/Produce, Can Goods*, Frozen Food, Household, Dairy, Meat) Did you know that I have cut back my grocery shopping by at least 20 minutes by writing my list in categories? It really doesn't take that much longer if you already have the grocery lists pre-printed and ready to write down.

*Can Goods is all the little aisles in the center of the store which also includes baking stuff.

5. Clean out the fridge before you go.

A FLYLADY trick that I have actually kept. Usually the fridge is almost empty so this is a good time to quickly wipe down the shelves and throw out the little science projects. Trust me, it will help you when you come home to put away your groceries too.

The reason I do menu planning is because it simplifies my life and helps me limit the running around like a chicken with his head cutoff. I see this as a work in progress, therefore, I don't beat myself up for not having it done just right but I do want my home to be a peaceful atmosphere. And menu planning is one way to help me do this.

Now please don't stress out about this. Try it for a week and let me know if it works for you.

Next week we will move on to Phase Two-The Actual Plan.

Sunday Afternoon Naps Lead to Sleepless Sunday Nights

Oh what does one do when you are lying in bed at night and you can't sleep?

You blog of course.

I did something very out of character for me this weekend. I turned off the computer. Tonight when I couldn't sleep, I decided to check out GOOGLE READER to see if anyone had posted. It seems I was the only one who stayed away from the computer. For the first time, in the history of me using GOOGLE READER, I had over 50 posts to read. I decided that I would hold off reading all of these until in the morning, when I have a fresh cup of coffee brewing, a wonderful case of bed head and teeth that are in dire need of a good brushing. Nothing says "Good Morning Blog land" better than bad breath and sweet smelling coffee. Jeff calls it "A Case of the Exactlys" ...because your mouth smells exactly like your @#S! Oh my husband thinks he is soooo funny! And he seems to be getting so many requests to start a blog of his own that he is getting a little scared. Gun shy as I like to call it.

Speaking of guns. Were we speaking of guns? Not sure. But we are NOW! Jeff has been looking to get a handgun for a very, very, very long time. Almost as long as we have been looking for a house. This past Saturday we were driving home from his brothers when he asked if I would happen to like to get my concealed hand gun license too. I thought about it for a second and said, "Sure, why not. Can I get a pink one?"

Oh he laughed. Hard. I asked him what was so funny. A pink hand gun seemed like a reasonable request. He said, "Susan, a pink handgun?" I sat there silent. Then he replied "You know I did see a pink glock (the thing that holds the bullets, I think) that you can put inside your gun. Do you want to do it with me?"

Girls (and Wade) I think I do. I really, think I do. I just think with Jeff working nights and me home alone and this world going to hell in a hand basket, I think I would feel safer. Not to mention the fun we can have shooting at each other paper people targets.

And don't worry, we are looking to buy a safe to store our one black, one pink gun in. Also we are going to have to take a 10 hour safety course before we buy. Safety First, People! Safety first!

I know my sisters-in-law are going to start not allowing the kids to come over and play once they read this post. (don't worry sisters, you know your children will probably be 18 before Jeff finds the gun he wants anyway.

But you know, I grew up around guns. My dad taught us well. For some reason, carrying my own gun around seems like what I was born to do.

Especially a gun that is pink.

By the way, this post has taken on a whole new dimension. i really did not plan on telling you about my dream of having a gun. But I just did. I guess i get loose lips (or fingers) when I am tired and it is fast approaching 1 AM.

Okay, pleasant dreams. I will see you on the flip side!

The Google Game

Have you ever played the Google game?

You know the one where you google yourself and see what you find?

I never actually find the real Susan. I just find others with my same name who are a little more ambitious than me.

For example, I have been a songwriter, a motivational speaker in Florida and a doctor.

But the best was the one I found last night when I entered in my longtime friends name.

Here is what Google Says-

jodi's weblog: Slap the beaver - Slap the beaver. the_beav.jpg So I come up number one now if you Google search "beaver jodi". Small pleasures, folks. In other news, my wrist feels much ...www.jodigreen.ca/blog/archives/2005/01/slap_the_beaver.html - 9k -

Can you guess who I googled Real Life Friends?

The picture that pops up is what cracks me up even more. I am so glad that your kids don't look like this Jodi!

Now that's what they call a Friday funny!

Thursday Thirteen: I Haven't Done One of These in Say...FOREVER!

Thirteen Places I would Rather Be Than Home...in bed...with a sore throat and a headache.

1. On a Beach In Florida (Um, check that-I will be there in October)

2. At A Family Reunion meeting Jeff's crazy cousins (Um, Check, doing that in October)

3. Magic Kingdom (Check, Check-going when we are in Florida)

4. Cruising the Interstate with Jeff (yes, yes, that too will be covered in October driving to FL)

5. Sitting on the Couch at MIL and FIL's cheering on the Chargers (Duh! Football Season is Here! GO CHARGERS!)

6. Standing on a scale that shows that I am 16 pounds lighter (taking it off one pound at a time my friends, one pound at a time!)

7. In Vegas Playing the slot machines (Still working on Jeff, he says no I say"Let's GO!")

8. At my brother and sister in law's house watching HSM2 with the girls. I know a few of the dances now...thank you very much

9. Getting a pedicure with my friend Tina-this girl knows how to massage my feet! (Give me another week and I will be there!)

10. Barnes and Noble reading a book sipping on a non-fat latte with the latest People Magazine in my life (I have to admit, I am getting a little tired of Brittany and friends but I will get my fix later tonight)

11. Scrapbook weekend- Take me away Kim! NOW! I need to get away! (Oh alright, I will wait until November

12. Camping in the mountains (Jeff and I are trying to work out the logistics)

13. In my new house with my feet kicked up on my ottoman (Um, not so much-will try again in 6 months. For those of you who followed this "house hunt" journey-don't worry I am fine with it, thanks to lots and lots of prayers and a husband who is not being lazy but proactive in getting a great cushion for us. Blame Dave Ramsey if you want! lol!)

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A Good Routine Is In The Eye Of The Beholder

Let's face it we are all a little busy these days. I know I am not the only one running from morning until night. I have come to believe it is what us women do. We work and we work hard...while our husbands sit and watch football. LOL!

Lately I have been restructuring my daily routines. I tried the Fly Lady* thing, it worked for a little while. Actually it helped jump start my whole love for a good routine. But after awhile, I realized her routines are not really my routines. We at the Blessed Assurances house like to beat to our own drum. I have embraced this part about Jeff and I. I mean not every household has a husband who works nights and a stay at home housewife that works for the #1 Furniture Brand in the country (or that's what the company likes to tell us over and over) in her living room. It can get a little insane at times in my little living room.

But here's the thing. We have found a routine that works for us. I have read many, many books about order in the midst of chaos and I think I am close to getting it under control. And let me tell you, I know like every season in life this too shall pass, so for now this is what works for me.

Yes, I will share with you our weekly routine but only under the preface that you must find a routine that works for you and your family. How do you know a routine is working for you anyway?

1. When it becomes second nature
2. When your house can be straightened up in less than 15 minutes and scrubbed down in less than an hour
3. When you can leave the house on a certain day and time and your husband doesn't have to wonder where you are because he knows it is grocery day.
4. When the laundry pile is not overflowing and the clothes are put away.
5. Finally when the ring around the tub is a nice off white and not a dark brown ring.

These 5 things are a good guide to knowing you are doing a great job.

So here is how we at the Blessed Assurance house roll.

Monday-lazy days, spent catching up from the weekend and planning out the menu
Tuesday-Grocery Day
Wednesday-laundry day-wash, dry, fold and put away
Thursday-Me time, I get out of the house for Bible Study and afterwards treat myself to an hour at Barnes and Noble
Friday-errand day (Bank, Post Office, Cleaners, etc)
Saturday-clean the house, catch up on laundry, get ready for Sunday
*we try to have the house finished before noon and start the morning off with Jeff's infamous pancakes
Sunday-Church, Small Group and Charger Football

So there you have it. A basic weekly schedule that works for us. If you have any routines that work for you, I would love to hear your thoughts so feel free to comment on what works for your family.

Next up: Menu Planning 101

*Flylady is a wonderful resource if you need help establishing a routine, she will take you step by step through the process in a loving, compassionate way. If you need help-try her out. I promise you and your house will be happy.

Happy Birthday Kim!

Today is my friend Kim's birthday! I talked to this girl for quite sometime today and she did not even tell me it was her birthday. You big toot! For that you get a blog post for all the world to read.

1. Kim and I met at Pantego Bible Church when Jeff and I were newly, newly married.
2. I met her when Hudson was less than a year old (he is now 5) and Emma wasn't even a thought yet.
3. Our little small group split off from a bigger small group so that group became fast friends.
4. We had great discussions on Sunday.
5. Jeff was a new Christain during this time. Her husband Danny and another guy name Todd took Jeff under thier wing. They all used to meet for coffee once a week back in the day.
6. One summer Holly, Kim and I did a Bible Study together on Romans. I guess you can say the girls took me under thier wing too. I grew so much that summer.
7. Emma was less than a month old at this time.
8. We bonded while I was able to get my "baby fix" by rocking her little one.
9. All 3 of us and our husbands left Pantego at the same time.
10. Jeff heard about Metro Bible (our home church now) from Danny, Kim's husband.
11. I was so glad to have a familar face at church that first week in our new church.
12. Ever since that first day, we have tried to sit close to each other during church.
13. Kim and I bonded over our love of scrapbooking and getting crafty.
14. We also have bonded over our love of Jesus.
15. And we have bonded over blogging. She started reading my blog first and then got inspired to do her own. I love her blog. In her quiet way, she continues to challenge others to be more like Jesus.
16. One time she gave me a book, "Loving God with All Your Mind" that she thought would be a good read for me.
17. This book changed my life. And she said it would. You should read it too.
18. She is the "Scrappy Chick" weekend coordinator.
19. I am so thankful for her taking time to put this together every 6 months.
20. We all enjoy a good amount of bonding over this weekend.
21. She cracks me up when she says during the weekend, "Let's put on a movie."
22. She prefers a movie with a good soundtrack for scrapbooking.
23. Top Gun is always in the mix-I think it is because she likes the volleyball scene but she won't admit it.
24. She hates the sound of smacking gum just as much as I do.
25. Her kids are so precious to Jeff and I.
26. Emma comes into the santuary while we are practicing singing and waves hello to me while she dances a "Holy Jig" to the music. This girl is NOT shy and I love that about her.
27. Hudson made Jeff and I so proud this Sunday by memorizing the scripture that had pretty big words through out. He is growing up so fast. He has grown by leaps and bounds the last few months. God has great plans for this little man!
28. I am so thankful for Kim and Danny's friendship.
29. Danny works nights as a K-9 officer and she is the one friend that truly understands how hard it is to have a husband who works nights.
30. Especially when you are trying to start a family.
31. I am so thankful that God brought you in my life, Kim.
32. You are such a blessing to me.
33. And I am thankful that we still get to see each other once a week at church.
34. Not to mention, that you are my most faithful blog commenter.
35. Here's to the big 3-5!

And here is one to grow on: Thank you for inspiring me this summer to lose the weight. You look good girlfriend, you look good.

Pretend I Am Not Really Here, KAY!

It's been a little crazy around here this week, I will tell you about it...oh wait, I don't have the time. I promised myself that I would do 4 things before I came back to blog.

They are as follows:

1)grocery shopping
2) wash, fold and put away the pile of laundry
3) file all new catalog pictures for work
4) clean off my desk


And since I am halfway there, I thought I would reward myself by writing a post.


I found this article very funny.

And you know what is even funnier? Someone asked me for parenting advice this week.

Here is what I was thinking:

(Are you serious!?!? You want MY advice! You must be desperate to ask me?!?!)

Here is what I actually said:

"Umm. I don't know! Ask someone else."

I just knew this was a test from the Big Man Upstairs. If you asked me advice, oh say, a year ago and I would have jumped at a chance to talk non-stop. But the truth is, I don't know and I won't know until I have been there and done that.

But here is what I promise to do for any of you moms out there at the end of your rope.

I will pray for you.

I will pray for your spouse.

I will pray for your child and the demon that sometimes posses that child.

And I will give you a big hug and say "You are doing a great job!" Because you are. Really you are! Go ahead give yourself a quick pat on the back. Go on, you deserve it!!

To all the mothers out there in my life: Please know that on the horrible-no-good-very-bad days I am praying for you. And then on the wonderful days, where everything goes according to plan, I am rejoicing with you. (I'm curious, does it ever really go according to plan?)

And if you ever need me to pray for you and your child, then all you have to do is ask or don't, I will still pray for your little monster angel.

I may be under a pile of paperwork and laundry right now but I can still pray.

When I finish my to-do list I will come back to tell you about the conversation last night with Jeff. The one where he announced to me that he was going to pursue acting.

Blogging now acting. My husband is ambitious!

(ohh, I spelled ambitious right the first go round. I am one smart spelling chick)

On Bended Knee I Come

You prayed with me for Canon Perkins, you prayed with me for Canon Norman, you prayed with me for Cousin Kanyon. Now I ask you to pray with me for baby Bennett. You can keep up to date with the latest here. http://www.totsites.com/tot/bennettmitchell/journal/.


Will you join me in praying for Travis, Kelly and Baby Bennett?


I am taking a few days off of the blog to get some other things done around here. So I will see you all in a few days.

God bless your Journey!

Summer 2007

I made this little diddy to compile all of our summer pictures together! Enjoy!

Click the play button to start the music if you want the soundtrack version. Or leave it alone if you would like the silent movie version.

So Long Summer, So Long

Summer- A time to defend, nurture, guard and protect yourself.

This SUMMER has been exactly what I want while at the same time being nothing like I expected. I did everything that was on the Summer Plans List while other things have come as a complete surprise. One of the most unexpected things from this summer is how God transformed me.

I started out this summer anxious about the next phase and instead of giving it to God, I talked about it with my friends non-stop.

Early on in the summer, I made the decision to turn off the television for the summer. By doing this, I found myself getting quieter on the inside. I felt God calling me to keep silent and trust Him with the "next phase." I prayed more and talked less.

Many things came up this summer that were completely out of my control. Often times, I felt like I was in a series of tests to see if I truly meant what I said when I said I would trust God.

The big apartment flood, the colon cancer scare, the increased work load, not getting pregnant when I wanted, all of these have served as a reminder that God is fully in control of my life-not me. Oh I cried and I tried to pray in a way that would get God to do things my way. But each time He would gently remind me that my ways are not His ways.

When my mom started to pack up her apartment we decided to clean out a few of our "memory boxes." As you already know from the past post, I enjoyed my walk down memory lane. But I found a quote in my prayer journal that hit home even today. To be honest, I don't know if I wrote this or if I found this and wrote it down. I don't think I wrote it because it is too profound for even I to write. But I think this quote is a perfect way to wrap up my "So Long Summer" post.

"God has more for you than plans; He also has a purpose. You do not have to fear getting on a side track when God is setting your course. If He is speaking, listen. If He is guiding, follow. And when you arrive to the place He has chosen, let your heart be still. He not only knows where He as taken you, He also knows what He is doing with you while He has you here."

God Bless Your Journey!

Huh. Who Would Of Thought That A Small Box Could Home So Many Memories!

I have been looking through an old box of mine from high school and college that was in my mom's closet. She's moving said the box had to go.

And here is what I found inside.

I have found a sweet, sweet note from Jodi (I will call you to read it, I can still remember reading this and praising God for our friendship. It's a sweet one, you are a sweet friend even today)



I found a list of to-do's from the week before I left for ACU. It was divided out by the days leading up to the big leave and the last line said, "Leave for ACU!"



I found a picture of my great grandmother and I cooking in her kitchen. This will be framed and put in my kitchen now. I think it was my first salad to make ever and she raved and raved about it. I had the biggest smile on my face. It is a keeper.



I found my notes from the Mexico mission trip. Aquilles baby! YEAH! I have spanish songs galore, I can't wait to teach the children at church these songs. Plus a few vocab words.



I still have the first ever retreat booklet with Hatchett. "The Great Adventure."



I found some of my piano books that I used at recitals. I can't wait to teach Hayley these songs (after I reteach myself of course)



I found a picture and many sweet notes from Laura who I am now reconnected with thanks to the blog.



I found my letter from ACU telling me I was in Nelson Dorm and my roomate would be Meredith.

I found some pictures from a time that a certain intern came to my house one night to fix my hair for a banquet. It was huge. And we laughed and laughed. It's because of this night that it still cracks me up that the Lord gave you boys, Kendra. We had a blast did we not?

Oh and a Sierra magazine you stuffed in my box when I was the church runner and they came to sing at the church. We were walking on cloud nine that week, 'member?

I found pictures of one of my cabins at CDR when Jenna Lucado was in my cabin (some may know her Dad, Max)



I have a check in list from my campers during 4th session. My favorite cabin EVER. Sarah you were there-really that cabin rocked!



I found Mark and Melissa's engagement picture, still in a crystal frame. Yeah, that's right, IN A FRAME. You guys were so sweet...still are, of course!

But the most important discovery of all is my prayer journal from 1993-1994. Priceless. Hard times but God was good. I will share some of the entries later, promise.

God was a big part of my life then just as He is now. And most of you real world friends were there then like you are now. We are blessed to have such a rich history together.

And as I look over all the names listed on Baby Bennett's site at everyone who is praying, I am reminded once again how blessed we are. Nothing, nothing compares to Christan community.

We are so blessed.

Thanks for the memories y'all. Let's get together soon to make more of 'em.

(Jeff asked me the other day, "So how many get togethers are we up to now when we get a house?" I told him 2 but the real number is definatley more than 2, we just will ease him into it slowly. My mom may have to give him a few pointers, I used to invite the whole school over since we were only 5 blocks away. She learned to cope...I think.)

I Have An Announcement to Make So Listen Up!

I am officially giving up on the BABY!

Hang with me please

Yesterday was a bad day for me! I cried all day. But I think God is grabbing my attention right now so I am starting to listen and quit feeling sorry for myself.

I will continue to take the necessary steps to get ready for a baby. For example, take the vitamins, track the junk, work out (rock hard abs, please) and well, you know where babies come from so I won't go any further.

But as for obsessing over having a baby. I am letting it go!

Fly away deep burning desire, fly away!

In less than 3 days we are giving our 60 day notice here at the humble abode.

Praise God we are moving in the right direction.

We have been moving in the right direction all along it's just that God had some things He needed to get clear to us. And well, we are slow learners.

Top 3 Lessons we have learned:

1. To trust God
2. To trust each other
3. To Stop Planning and Start Living.

I always wonder what God is doing behind the scenes. He must have big huge plans if He is willing to throw us into the learning pit time and time again.

In church, we are talking about the 4 words that can hinder you from growing in your faith. Do you want to know what they are?

"I Can Handle It."

Yes, you can handle it but that is because God gives you the strength to go through it not the other way around. I put God on the back burner because let's face, I believe I can handle it or even do it better my way. But let me tell you, it doesn't work that way.

So here are three things that I plan to do in order to truly allow God to handle it.

1. Praise Him for what He has done and what He is going to do.
2. Read my Bible every morning to start myself on the right foot.
3. Pray through every emotion that takes me away from sweet communion with the Lord Almighty.


Thank you for your encouragement. From here on out I am moving forward-taking it one step at a time.

Oh and like little Katelyn, the sweet kindergartner says

"Just Keep Swimming. Just Keep Swimming!"

Translation: Just Keep Moving Ahead

I Can Sleep Easier Now that I Know This

Ummm, check this out, I hope you are as enlightened as I was.

Somehow I feel like we have just solved one of the biggest mysteries known to man.

I don't know about you but I am filing this one away under useless trivia that will do nothing to further my career.

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.