Coffee, Chocolate and a Chat

We have a new baby!!!

2011-05-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

And his name is....

Jesus and the Easter Bunny

2011-04-24T06:08:00.000-07:00

Well we are at that precarious age where fantasy and reality collide. Jared will turn 10 next month and for him right now, the world of make believe is a lot more real than reality. Where do we as parents draw the line and try to ever so gently bring him into the "real world"???

This is a question I am sure all parents must ask at some time in their childrens lives. But what is the "correct" answer? I ask this because this year has been a tough one for Jared, he is crying now because the Easter Bunny didn't make it through the storm last night...but Halleluiah Jesus sent 4 inches of rain!!!

How do you explain that our Savior was beaten, shamed and died on a cross for us and this is the REAL reason we celebrate Easter? A childs perspective on sin is when they do something naughty and get a time out. How do you explain worldly sin to a child caught in the middle of a world of fluffy white bunnies and chocolate peanut butter eggs? Reality vs Fiction...how do you make reality more appealing to a child? I live in the real world and there are very often days in these uncertain times when I wish I could return to the world of childhood. The land flowing with chocolate and peanut butter...

I will share with my little boy the same answer that has been the rock of my foundation. This verse was written on my heart as a child and transitioned me over the abiss from early childhood to reality:

"For God so LOVED the WORLD that He gave His only begotten SON that whomsoever believeth in HIM should not PERISH but have everlasting LIFE. John 3:16"

Words to cling to when the world has got your goat, on days when there is no chocolate but your days are very much like another brown substance and the streams of abundant JIF peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are just no where to be found...cling to the truth. And the truth shalll set you free.

Thank You Lord Jesus.

Random Thoughts...

2011-04-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

Well Hello...I see its been a long time since I have visited my blog or posted an update. I have been sucked into the world of facebook and my thoughts are scattered randomly and then get deleted at the end of the day..or send in to facebook cyberspace...its kinda neat to reflect back and ponder over thoughts I put down a year ago. So much has been happening lately that I have not had much chance to write...which I suppose beats not having anything to talk about I guess.

We had a potluck and egg hunt today after church. Our new church is about hmmm 100 steps or so from our property line and is the smallest church I have ever been in but it proclaims to have the biggest HEART in Texas, and after today I have to agree it is true. The sweetest bunch of people you will ever meet and such a kind, loving and generous spirit very reflective of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are very blessed that God led us to where we are and are amazed by every new day.

Anyway, it was a most excellent day at church today. Our church family puts on a good feast and the egg hunt was just incredible. There were eggs and Easter goodies all over the church lawn...had to have been hundreds of little plastic eggs and other treats. Jaiden even got a new stuffed bunny which made her ever so happy. She isn't into dolls much but loves loves loves stuffed animals. Jared came back with an overloaded basket and a big big smile on his face. But Easter is not all about the eggs or the candy and as Ms. Christy taught so well in Children's moment today, it is about the gift of life that Christ our Lord gave to us by sacrificing His own body and giving His own life's blood on that cross so that we might not suffer death but live eterally with Him in heaven. God is so good to us that all we have to do is believe and accept this precious gift and we will be saved. Even when satan beats us down, if we ask Jesus will save us from the world that is persecuting us....and the world is chock full of persecutions

The wind is howling out and we had wildfires going out of control on Friday so the firemen are on alert to the sound of yet another fire call. We got .44 inches of rain 2 weeks ago but its just so very dry that we need a good week of soaking rain....and a break from all this wind. I know God hears us when we pray, so we continue to lift up our prayers and know that He will keep us in His care and not let us go.

And we get ready for another work week to start. Another week of sitting at a desk and wondering what I am really doing with my life...as I near the big 4-0 I am pondering more and more what I should be doing and thinking more and more that life should really be more than a paycheck for putting in 40 hours at a desk each week. The threat of a furlough last week really got me to thinking hard about the government and how it manages our tax dollars and its personnel. I really don't dislike my job, I am very grateful to God for allowing me the chance to work and have the benefits that come along with it. I am not here of my own accord but by the GRACE OF GOD. As I hear the reports of EGF flooding and getting yet another 7 inches of snow, I can only thank God all the more for what he has given us. His abundant love is evident in every breath we take. We are so very blessed.

2010-11-05T04:30:00.001-07:00

Does anyone have a tip for raising African Violets?

Have seeds will garden

2010-01-04T12:22:00.000-08:00

We took a family road trip to Schertz on Friday...starting our year with a reflection of where we started really put things into perspective. We realized how far we've come and just where we are now is where we were meant to be.

The old house we lived in (my first home purchase)is now so pitifully run down that it breaks our heart to see it in such disrepair after years of work and toil to make it our home. The town has exploded in growth and there are stores and restaurants there that we could only dream of before...but the traffic is horrendous! I hit a few stores for a few minor supplies and then we headed back home on Saturday. It was a great trip but it was even greater to come HOME. As I was clearing the feed lot of our cow pasture I suddenly realized I'd finally come full circle...the farm girl has returned to her roots...I'd rather be out in the pasture with the cows than bumping through the crowds at a mall...

I spent my Christmas money from my MIL on a seed tray and seeds. I am looking forward to planting a veggie garden in the north corner of our 2 acre yard. It is a blank slate just ready to be painted with yummies! I can't wait to dig in and watch it come to life. I purchased a boatload of seeds (I went a bit overboard - ya)so I am thinking the kids may get the opportunity to start a little veggie roadstand if this venture is a success...

Scott built me a double compost area already, it is in the north corner by the cows feed lot...I have been filling it will trompled hay and cow manure, kitchen scraps and pecan leaves. Hopefully I will have nice healthy dirt in a year or so.

Happy New Year Ya'll!!!

2009-12-31T07:31:00.000-08:00

this has certainly been an eventful year!

It amazing to reflect back on it now and see how God has "moved us" physically, mentally, and spiritually. We are in good hands. When we let go and let God take control...amazing things will happen.

Wishing ya'll a Blessed 2010!

Doggone nutty

2009-10-23T17:12:00.000-07:00

We have two enormous native pecan trees in our front yard and they are just beginning to release their fall crop so we got out this evening and gathered about 10 lbs of nuts from around one of the trees. Being native pecans, they are about the size of small marbles so it takes quite a few of them, and a lot of work, to gleem a small amount of shelled out pecans...well we were sitting out on the backporch enjoying a beautiful evening and watching the sun set, cracking and shelling pecans when we discovered that every time a bit or broken piece landed by our two Boston terriers they were inhaling them like candy...I never knew that dogs liked nuts...! They were going gaga over em!!!

We are all so very grateful for the bounty Lord!!!

Home Sweet Texas Home

2009-10-21T03:32:00.000-07:00

We are now home. We are Texas residents! It has been a long road to get here and at times I have been overwhelmed by doubt. God is Good and He has blessed us so much!!!

We still do not have Internet yet so this update is from my Iphone. It will be short and sweet :). I just wanted to say Hi! And let everyone know that everything is working out great...

Life is good and we are Home Sweet Home in Comanche, Texas.

Let Go...and LET GOD

2009-06-12T06:15:00.001-07:00

These words have new meaning for me now....last week I had all but given up all hope...I was trying hard not to be devestated by the continuous flow of "your were not selected" to the jobs that I had applied for...it was looking pretty grim

I had not heard back from the job with the Core...although I had called and talked to them numerous times...so they knew my name and knew I was still around...waiting...waiting...tying patiently to wait...2 and a half months passed...surely if they wanted to hire me they would have called by now? So I put that dream on the back burner, not yet ready to let it go because deep down in my heart it so felt like "THE ONE" so to have given up would have been giving up every hope and and every dream of ever making it back to Texas...if this was to be my destiny it was in the hands of God to make it happen...the way I was feeling last week I don't know if I would have ever completed another application...I was at the end of my hope and didn't know what else to do...so I asked God to please change my heart if living in Grand Forks was His will...I was a burden on my family by being so miserable here all the time...I couldn't endure myself much less continue like this and bring my family down too...I asked if it be God's will he would grant me the ability to love it here and make it my home...we even went out and purchased a swingset...something we have never done because we have not lived in a house long enough....Scott was midway through the project when I got the call from the Core...

The call that has changed the course of our lives forever...the call that has given us all new hope of a bright and joyful future....an answer to hope...which came right from the heart...the heart of God. We are so very blessed!

What a week!

2009-06-10T11:10:00.000-07:00

I am still on cloud 9 after the past week...it has been truly AMAZING!!!

God is Cheering for Youby Max Lucado
If your God is Mighty enough to ignite the sun, could it be that He is mighty enough to light your path?
God is for you. Not “may be,” not “has been,” not “was,” not “would be,” but “God is!” He is for you. Today. At this hour. At this minute. As you read this sentence. No need to wait in line or come back tomorrow. He is with you. He could not be closer than he is at this second. His loyalty won’t increase if you are better nor lessen if you are worse. He is for you.
God is for you. Turn to the sidelines; that’s God cheering your run. Look past the finish line; that’s God applauding your steps. Listen for him in the bleachers, shouting your name. Too tired to continue? He’ll carry you. Too discouraged to fight? He’s picking you up. God is for you.
God is for you. Had he a calendar, your birthday would be circled. If he drove a car, your name would be on his bumper. If there’s a tree in heaven, he’s carved your name in the bark. We know he has a tattoo, and we know what it says. “I have written your name on my hand,” he declares (Isa. 49:16).

I still don't know where to begin without starting from the beginning of the story and telling how every step and every broken road has lead me to this new beginning...just where God wants me to be.

Quick synopsis: I applied months ago for a job at Lake Proctor, TX (deep in the HEART of TEXAS) small town, deep rooted community...very mayberry (once in a lifetime opportunity)

The same EXACT day that I got my hope crushed completely by a job that I didn't get in Austin I received a call for an interview for this job...the job I knew in my heart the moment I read the job description was "THE BIG ONE" the one that I couldn't possibly qualify for...had I not come to Grand Forks and spent the last two years here...as Administrative Support Assistant....to say it has all fallen into place would be such a massive understatement. The speed at which I am leaving is astonishing...God willing, I will be leaving Grand Forks on Independence weekend and my first day of work will be 6 July...my birthday...a good day for a new beginning...don't ya think?

My mind and heart have been just overflowing with dreams and hope now...Its a major whirlwind and sometimes I feel like I am going to float away! I can see so many happy memories being made in my head...and its all due to the awesome grace of God. I didn't think I could survive these past two years...somedays were just survival and I wondered if I would make it to the light...but God's grace got me through the darkness and now...now there is such JOY! I can't contain it all...I want to explode and my cup indeed runneth over. God is GOOD! All THANKS and PRAISE be to God!

Hold me Jesus

2009-06-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

Well, sometimes my life Just don't make sense at all When the mountains look so big And my faith just seems so small

CHORUS: So hold me Jesus, 'cause I'm shaking like a leaf You have been King of my glory Won't You be my Prince of Peace

And I wake up in the night and feel the dark It's so hot inside my soul I swear there must be blisters on my heart

CHORUS

Surrender don't come natural to me I'd rather fight You for something I don't really want Than to take what You give that I need And I've beat my head against so many walls Now I'm falling down, I'm falling on my knees

And this Salvation Army band Is playing this hymn And Your grace rings out so deep It makes my resistance seem so thin

CHORUS

You have been King of my glory Won't You be my Prince of Peace

All of me...or nothing at all

2009-05-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

That is the type of person I am. I cannot live torn in half. You either get all or nothing with me...

So today I find myself torn in half, yet again...and wondering where the future goes from here...

When I met my husband I was about 2 months into the relationship before I found out that he had a wife and two children...I wish sometimes that when I found out I had not only gone the other way but had RUN the other way...

I met his children at the same time I met his parents...that alone should have told me something

Yet dispite our differences, I love him unconditionally

His "other" family is another story altogether...

Praying for the strength and the wisdom to endure the other family that wants nothing to do with us and yet still takes...piece by piece

I feel like a horrible monster for wanting a "normal" family life...but if someone does not want you in their life, how do you become a part of it? If you don't even matter how can you give all that you have to make them momentarily happy? When does the feeling of being ripped into pieces and scattered about stop hurting so much?

Wrestling with it

2009-05-21T04:44:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am struggling with "this" and I am not sure what "this" may be...I not sure what I am facing or what exactly the whole point of struggling might accomplish...I am having an enormously tough time dealing with the situation and maybe I just need a strong dose of reality to bite me in the arse or someone to remind me that the world does not revolve around me....

I am trying hard to trust in the Lord with all my heart, have patience...and all that

I know I should

I am trying

One day and one step at a time...

Just keep going

Must keep going

Not exactly the answer I was hoping for...

2009-05-20T13:58:00.000-07:00

Scott found out today that a company that has offered him a job here has scheduled him a flight to go to Oregon to meet the company president...and officialize the job. While it is a good thing that Scott has found employment so soon after retirement, we def could use the funds right now....but it also means more time here...how long remains undetermined. I have gotten nothinng but rejection notifications on the hundred job apps I have submitted all over the south...it is frustrating...depressing...and down right disheartening....I just want to go HOME

Well, I DID ask for an answer...and this is pretty much a signed, sealed and set in stone one...whether I like it or not

On top of that, I took time off today to come home and plant flowers...it had been sunny all morning...but as soon as I stepped outside it started to rain...I've been feeling a sore throat coming all morning so I didn't think planting flowers in the wind and rain would be beneficial so instead I have just been chillin at home...pretty much wasting the day away...and what do you know...here it is at 4 pm...and the sun returns

I feel like Verizon...:)

2009-05-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

I have people :)...AND WHERE THERE IS PEOPLE PRAYING THERE IS POWER...That's what its all about...THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

Simple words are not enough to express our gratitude for the multitude of prayers. Shelly made it through her surgery just fine and the doctors now believe she is CANCER FREE!!!

PRAISE GOD!!!

Please Pray

2009-05-06T04:21:00.000-07:00

My cousin Shelly goes into surgery today for her second round of cancer. This time it is in her liver and they are monitoring two other spots elsewhere. Please keep her lifted high in prayer. My heart goes out to her, if you can afford to give to this fight, please do, Cancer sucks and no one should ever have to go through this.

My Aunt Angie(my Mom's baby sister) wrote this:

You know what should never happen....

You should never have to spend Mother's day in a hospital watching your daughter recover from the second surgery from cancer. It is bad enough to watch her body be scarred from numerous surgeries from a two year fight against breast cancer. That is bad enough. Then just when we think we are at the end of that fight and can finally see clear skies we get the other bombshell. Two days after she was told she was cancer free, the dr. called and said he needed to do more testing because there was a spot in the liver he needed to check out further. After several weeks of testing, here we are in another battle for her life. It is cancer. She will have surgery on Wednesday and will very likely still be in the hospital on Mother's Day.
I know some of you have stories much more traumatic and certainly more heroic than this one. This one just happens to hit home to me. I am asking for two things in this letter. One, the most important to me is prayer. I am trusting in God to give us strength once again to fight this battle and win. Second, I'm asking for donations for our cause. We are on a mission to stamp out cancer in this generation. We believe with more research we can accomplish this. Shelly and I will be walking the Susan G. Koeman 3-day walk in Dallas in November. We have to raise $2300.00 before we can walk in that race. My personal goal is $6000.00 All the money will go to research.
Now is an excellent time to donate. If you have someone you'd like to give in memory of or in honor of you can list their name on the website. Please give now so no more mothers will spend their honored day in hospitals with this deadly disease.
Please support me in the fight to end Breast Cancer. Just follow the link. Together we can hold each other up and make a difference in our world.

Love to all,
Angie

Bunny Droppings

2009-04-12T07:38:00.001-07:00

Jaiden woke to find that the Easter Bunny had come while she slept and left her some "presents" scattered about the house. First she discovered her Easter basket had been filled with goodies...a new Dora video, a chocolate bunny, peeps, jelly beans, a golden "penny" and lots of little chocolate eggs! She turned around to discover that the Easter bunny had also planted colorful plastic eggs around the house, she found them in her room, in her shoes, on the stairs and in every nook and cranny. I think she had them all round up in just under 5 minutes....much better than at the Easter egg madascrable event that we attended yesterday...we waited in the line for what seemed like hours...they finally rang the cowbell...children 2-3 attacked the eggs like starved animals would a piece of bacon...but Jaiden didn't want to have anything to do with that craziness...she wanted to go HOME!

an hour later Jared had his chance when the 6-8 year olds got a turn so he captured a bag full of eggs and got 2 green and 1 pink ticket! Yay! two more long lines later he had another small bag of candy, an alien slime thingie, an a free kids meal coupon for the BLUE MOOSE...which means mom and dad will have to fork up the $50 to go eat there I suppose. Thanks businesses of Grand Forks...this "free" event was so impressive I think it will surely become a yearly tradition...NOT!

The day was just GORGEOUS...mid 50s and sunny! I spent the rest of the afternoon outside clearing out my flower beds which have finally come uncovered from all the snow...and discovered that there are TULIPS coming up on the south end of the house! Yay! So happy about that :) Also, the rose bushes that we picked up at the end of season clearance for a buck a piece at Menards seem to have survived as well! Woo hoo! Tis the season for firing up the grill :) Well maybe not just yet...this morning I have been brainstorming ideas for a new deck...one where we don't get blown away from the wind here...one where we can sit and eat and actually enjoy the outdoors...I would LOVE to find a plan that incorporates a kids play fort into the deck....that would be SO cool! I can almost see it in my head but can't figure way to make it a visual reality...or draw up plans that Scott could put together with actual building materials.

Today is supposed to be another gorgeous sunny day. Wishing you all a most blessed EASTER! Thank You Jesus for your most precious gift of salvation to us lowly sinners! May God bless You all!

Happy Easter Ya'll!

Good Read

2009-04-08T09:17:00.001-07:00

Check out this webpage for a good read on the fruits of the Spirit. Have a blessed day!

Endless Winter

2009-03-31T11:46:00.000-07:00

As I sit and type this I am trying not to fall asleep...I think my body is trying to go back into hybernation mode...again. I've been fighting this lethargic blah for months already and now winter is digging back in...sigh

When does it end????

River Rising

2009-03-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

The Red and Red Lake River is rising steadily this week. Since they merge just about 1.5 miles from our house we have been watching it with a lot of interest lately.

Fargo is expected to get record flooding and the citizens are calling for volunteers to help in the sand bagging process in hopes of deterring the massive surge that will crest later this week.

There is still a lot of snow melting and the ground is frozen solid ice for 30" below the surface so anything and everything that runs off goes into the rivers.

We got about half and inch of rain here Grand Forks last night on top of that. Some areas got 4-5 inches. We have to look at everything south of us because they are the ones that got the most snow this winter and our Red River flows north...yes north. The only river in America (that we are aware of anyway) that flows north...

What lies just north of us??? Lots of frozen ground and rivers of solid ice...resulting in an iceberg dam. We don't have flood insurance and it takes a month for the premium to go into effect anyway so we have to ride this one out and pray that the levies hold.

PRAISE THE LORD...We made it to FLORIDA!

2009-03-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

Our vacation to Florida in review:

Thanks to Dan the weatherman; my inside source of knowledge of all things weather wise I had an inside eye watching over my trip. I took his advice to be on the east side of the storm moving in and boy am I ever thankful now that God put me to work in the National Weather Service...I can appreciate what those guys do a lot more now that's for sure. I left home Sunday afternoon...the skies were blue and there was not a cloud in sight...got to my Mother in Laws in Albany...it was a gorgeous day.

We got up Monday and went shopping in town...had a great time...came back to her house checked in on the weather channel and saw that the storm was moving in and would possibly have roads closed by morning...Interstate 29 from Grand Forks had closed that morning and even schools were closed which is very rare for us. So I booked a hotel in Bloomington about a block away from the airport for Monday night and the kids and I headed out. No sooner did I leave but icy rain started falling behind me; my MIL woke Tues morning to a very slippery driveway.

The kids and I went to the Mall of America for a while on Mon night, had some dinner in our hotel room and then went down to the indoor pool and hot tub and had a great time there. Around 9pm came back up and went to bed...our room was up on the 6th floor and boy they must have been trying to prepare us for Florida because the room had to have been 80+ degrees even with the air turned off and the window cracked open...so it was a very "sultry" night indeed - I rather enjoyed it though ;)

Tues morn we woke up to a dreary day, went to breakfast at the hotel buffet and then came up to hang out in the room for a couple hours...I was starting to get extremely comatose from the sweltering heat in the room so we checked out early and went to Target where we picked up a new backpack for the trip and a few swim things for the pool. Then we headed to the airport to begin our adventure...

We arrived at the gate at exactly 12pm as I had hoped we would...Jared was so so excited and kept telling me to hurry up, hurry up - we will be late! (Our flight departed at 3:15) When we stopped for lunch at Subway he could hardly sit still long enough to eat his sandwich he was in such a rush to get to our gate...we finally made it....with only a couple of hours to spare ;)

The flight from MSP to Memphis was delayed about an hour to de-ice; the weather was getting worse by the minute and I was wondering if I would have to turn around and go home again before I ever got off the ground...but alas twas not so...the plane finally got airborne and we were off!

When we arrived in Memphis it was 80 degrees...aaaaah! Of course it was pretty cold in the airport terminal...but Jared's face was flushed as red as a beet. Oh, I must add that he was an awesome help in the airports helping me with our bags and pushing Jaiden's stroller. I could not have juggled it all without him.

So we arrived in Orlando about 10:30 pm...got our bag...got our rental car and headed off to our hotel with no clue how to get there other than a map sketched out by a kind gentleman at the car rental counter...which was very difficult to read in the dark while going 75 mph down the freeway...my navigator fell asleep on me from sheer exhaustion...poor guy...so I was on my own to find the way. I am still not sure which route I took and I wound up driving around the Disney parks somehow...but I finally made it onto the correct road that my hotel was on and was about to pull into the KFC when I looked up and there it was! Yay! So we checked into the ratty roach motel...it was pretty yuck. I wouldn't recommend it although it served its purpose as a cheep hotel with a bed...

The next morning we took a walk around the hotel and the kids immediately wanted to go swimming...there was not a coffee pot in the hotel room so I wasn't too enthused about this but I let them take a quik morning swim. Heather came down and we met at last; not exactly the meeting that I had imagined since my kids were in two different pools and my attention was not exactly clear yet due to the muddled coffee less state of my mind...so we headed off to breakfast at Denny's...where I swear that the waitress was really intent on hurrying us along for whatever reason...the restaurant was almost empty. She kept asking us over and over where we were going...we hadn't quite figured that out yet and she barely gave us a chance to talk before she was back asking us again.

I hadn't gotten a car seat with the rental car so I went off to Target to purchase one along with some snacks for the kids. We relaxed by the pool for the remainder of the afternoon and then headed off to Hollywood Studios to meet Heather and family for the Fantasia show. The girls had a great time sharing popcorn before the show. The show was awesome and loud and Jaiden wasn't too sure about the witches and the bad guys but loved the river parade of Disney characters at the end.

We picked up KFC on the way back to the hotel and Jared got a chance to play with his new toy; a "string thing" with built in blacklight...he was so happy!

Thursday we went to the Animal Kingdom...got there early; 9am and stayed until 5 when the park closed. We had a GREAT day! This was by far the best of the parks, it was like an enormous zoo with rides. We all enjoyed it immensely.

Friday we went to Flagler Beach to meet the Thomas family for lunch. We ate pizza right by the ocean...it was AWESOME!!! Then we went to the park and hung out for a while until the sun got too intense and we started turning red even with spf on...so we called it a day and took a drive up to St Augustine; a lovely little town but there was too much traffic by the water and Jaiden was asleep so we did not get to go to the beach that day. We had cheeseburgers from the McDonalds in Daytona and halfway through his Jared lost his loose tooth! He was so excited! The tooth fairy came that night and left him ten dollars and seventy six cents! He had just enough to buy a dolphin at Sea World the next day for ten dollars and sixty seven cents.

Sea World Orlando was a great experience. It was a gorgeous day out and the park was not too crowded. We all enjoyed the shows and had fun playing with and feeding the dolphins. Jared won the squirt gun and gave his sister choice of prize...she picked a dolphin almost identical to Jared's. We came back to the hotel and called it an early night in preparation of our trip to Flagler for church the next morning.

We got started around 7 am and headed off to Flagler. It was another gorgeous day. We all had a great time at the Thomas' church and enjoyed meeting some of the church family. Lunch afterwards at Golden Corral was fun and yummmy...I finally got the catfish I've been craving for so long :)

We drove along A1A for a while after lunch and I found a place to park at Ormond Beach and the beach was not too busy so we enjoyed a short walk and gathered quite a few really pretty seashells. Jared enjoyed running into the surf and a chat with an older gentleman that was fishing. We spent the rest of the day lounging at the hotel pool and were just about to head in when everyone started shouting "the rocket is about to lauch" so we stayed and watched that. It was really cool and Jared was ever so excited to see a real rocket launched into space. What a great memory!

Monday our grand fanali was the Magic Kingdom...we were so pooped out that we didn't get up very early and by the time we had done breakfast and made it to the park it was around 10am. The crowds were starting to get thick already. We went through the Swiss Family Robinson tree house (my favorite story) and then we rode the magic carpet ride and then the Johnny Depp...I mean Pirates of the Carribean ride, and then the Jungle Safari. We were not so impressed with Magic Kingdom as we were with Animal Kingdom, whether it was fighting the crowds or just the fact that we were totally exhausted and ready to head home. We called it a day after just 4 hours and lounged by the pool for the remainder of the day.

We loved Florida and getting the opportunity to visit with our friends. It was an adventure we will never forget and a very nice break away from the cold. I am so thankful that we were blessed to make it out ahead of the yucky weather that seemed to follow us all the way to Florida. As Jared said over and over "It never snows in FLORIDA" I feel blessed to have been given this "escape hatch" I know things are tough all over the world right now and everyone is a bit overstressed. I had gotten to the point of not wanting to go through the motions of survival day after day. Florida felt like a different planet from here...a place of great happiness and comfort...the economy was good there...money flows like warm honey in the land of Disney anyway. There may be an over abundance of issues to worry about in the rest of the world but here you can be at peace just soaking in the sun and fresh air. I did not cough a single time there...my cold and congestion returned almost the minute we landed in Minneapolis (go figure!) This week we are busy getting prepared for Scott's retirement ceremony on Friday. The inlaws will be here tonight....lots to do. I know that thanks to the great Florida excape I will survive this and whatever our future holds there is someone much greater than all the world that is looking out for us. We still haven't got the answers but we know who does and we pray for the wisdom and patience to trust in Him.

5 days till Florida!!!

2009-03-05T13:28:00.000-08:00

Woo Hooo! I am getting so sited :) Jared is now going with us, I booked his flight yesterday. He is ever so excited too! We are going to have so much fun in the sun!!!
Now what to pack...I can't believe that we will have to pay for checked baggage...at $15 a bag I think I will just be packing one for all three of us. Or should I just buy clothes there and spend the $15 on a bag on the return trip? I am really not sure what to pack and neither the kids nor I have many summery clothing...not much need for them here. It will be interesting to see how the kids react to 80 degrees.

I missed the Florida job by a point...my score was 99. Since there was well over 300 applications submitted for this ONE job they are only sending up the ones that scored 100 for consideration...its a tough market out there.

Update

2009-03-03T03:50:00.000-08:00

I haven't updated my blog in a while so I am going to try to catch up quik....before I forget. Its been crazy busy at work getting travel authorizations prepared for lots of travels for the spring flood event, training...etc...plus the gazillion and one other things that I do at any given moment.

Friday morning I got to work and it was -20 degrees, after the emotional week I'd had this was appropriate. A few minutes later I got a call from ICE Immigration and Custom Enforcement in San Antonio saying that I had a job interview at 10...could I make it? Uh..no not in person...I am in NORTH DAKOTA...so I asked if I could do a phone interview...she had to go ask...yes I could do the interview at 10. It went well...the job is Mission Support in property management...I do that..so now I am just waiting for a call back to let me know something...it could be two weeks before I know. This job in Texas is what I have been praying for many many years now.

Meanwhile...I have this spur of the moment trip to Florida to plan for ;) A break from the chaos of my life is just what I need right now...this crab needs to get to the beach quick! But there is a catch....I found a job in Florida....in St Augustine. It is a secretary job...same pay as I am making now...no excessive challenges, just taking care of a boss....sounds great after the two years of wearing a bazillion hats....but the Mission Support job in Texas is also a huge promotion...and its in TEXAS...so why am I now considering Florida as an option? I would have never even thought of Florida before last week....I asked for a window out of here and it seems that God has given me two doors...now which one do I choose? I am hoping to do some soul searching beach walking while in Florida to clear my head and hopefull that the answer will come to me.

How MAJESTIC

2009-02-27T10:19:00.000-08:00

I feel the need to share this...even though I just started it on the way to work this morning...and I have only completed the first two and a half lines...its been a truly AMAZING morning...I apologize that this isn't finished but I am being told to not hold it until it is...so here it goes:

Lord
(from the heart of me)

When our world is cover in ice
YOU are the fire that warms us

When storms rage and toss us
YOU are the anchor that holds us

When our bodies are sick and broken
YOU mend our spirit

When I cry out
YOU dry the tears within

(this last line just came to me now as I am writing)

Sunrise and a promise

2009-02-26T13:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday as I arrived at work and was pulling into my parking spot I witnessed a sight I had never seen before...sunrise with a rainbow right beside the sun. It was so beautiful. I have been having a very emotional week so of course this brought me to tears. It was as if God was saying to me "This is not the end, but a beginning to something amazing"

This winter has been especially harsh in more ways than one. We are still uncertain what our future holds and as Scott's retirement date draws ever closer I am getting more and more stressed about finding a job and getting us out of here.

I have been applying for every administrative job I can find but haven't had any success yet. Still praying that perfect job that is meant to be opens up or is one that I've applied for and I will get "the call"

Todays weather forecast:
A powerful storm system continued to move out across the northern plains early this Thursday morning. The most significant snows will be south of the Interstate 94 / U.S. Highway 10 corridor of southeast North Dakota and west central Minnesota. Snow will be heavy at times, with total accumulations from 5 to 12 inches expected in southeast North Dakota into west central Minnesota by this evening, with the highest amounts close to the North and South Dakota border where over 1 foot is possible. Dangerous wind chills from 25 to 30 below are also expected for northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota today and tonight. Northerly winds will increase through the day, with blowing and drifting snow expected in the Red River Valley.

Home Improvement?

2009-02-24T02:20:00.000-08:00

After spending my entire commute home yesterday in tears, I came home and hit the net...looking for an escape hatch...winter is getting to me big time and I am on the verge on a mental breakdown...and you know what they say "when mamma ain't happy..."

So Jaiden and I are now going to take a little vacation...to FLORIDA!....for 5 days we will be able to get outside and play :) I am so excited about that....I can't hardly breathe here anymore, being cooped up indoors for 5 months and then being sick on top of that...is just misery.

Its still sinking in...after I hit book the trip of course a million doubts crept into my head so I could hardly get to sleep last night. Scott is supportive of this, it was his idea that I take a trip and he made the suggestion months ago...but I didn't want to spend the money with things so uncertain right now...they are still just as uncertain for sure but snapping from the pressure of it all is just not an option...and my mindframe coming home was of escaping the only way that seemed possible at the time...but there is no return ticket for that trip

So finally after months of winter with no end in sight and spending all our free time thinking about upgrades to the house and walking the aisles of the home improvement stores for exercise as much as anything, there is finally light at the end of the tunnel.

So why am I going with just myself and Jaiden? I would LOVE this to be a family vacation but we can't afford air travel for 5 and the boys would be out of school for over a week. Cody just came home with a new job yesterday (YAY Cody!!!) He was hired at Dairy Queen...so that means he will be working and not able to take of for a whole week...Scott is saving his leave to use for terminal leave after retirement...so that just leaves Jaiden and I.

She is so very excited about our trip...I showed her the photo of the hotel and I think the only think I need to pack is her swimsuit...she saw the pool and just about lit up like a Christmas tree...that is what prompted me to hit the submit button...that look on her face was priceless...and she has been talking non stop about "spring" and going outside to play in the sprinkler...and being able to finally wear shorts...because I won't let her wear them in winter...she runs around bare foot most of the time...her flip flops replace her crocs as soon as she gets in the door good every afternoon and they usually never leave her feet until right before walking out the door the next morning...so I think she will love the sandals kinda attitude of Florida.

Our trip is from Mar 10 - Mar 17 and I must get started on an itenerary soon. Right now I do not have a plan to get to the airport yet...we are leaving from MSP. It cost the same to fly from here to MSP as it does from MSP to Orlando...so that is not an option. I will probably drive there but I need to figure out a way to get the car away from the airport as parking costs are astrocious. I am hoping I can find an inlaw willing to make the trip to the airport with me. Its a 5.5 hour drive from here...2 hours from Scott's hometown...so my prayer is that will fall into place and my boss will approve my leave...and my family will not be furious at me for not attending this years family reunion...I hope they will understand...

Sunny Saturday

2009-02-21T09:51:00.000-08:00

Its such a beautiful day...the high is supposed to be somewhere around 12 degrees today....feeling a bit like going OUT and doing SOMETHING....what is there to do? Ideas? Anything???? The wind chill is -4....so outside activities are limited.

The kids are going stir crazy...I am too...what oh what is there to do????

SEDENTARY:

It is characterized by sitting or remaining inactive for most of the day (for example, in an office), with little or no exercise. It is believed to be a factor in obesity, and, as such, may contribute to other diseases, such as type II diabetes, heart disease, depression and even hemorrhoids....OH JOY

Lack of exercise causes muscle atrophy, i.e. shrinking and weakening of the muscles and accordingly increases susceptibility to physical injury. Additionally, Physical fitness is correlated with immune system function; a reduction in physical fitness is generally accompanied by a weakening of the immune system....WOULD this could this explain the colds that we have been having? Jaiden and Jared both have colds now too.

Despite the well-known benefits of physical activity, many adults and many children lead a relatively sedentary lifestyle and are not active enough to achieve these health benefits. A sedentary lifestyle is defined as engaging in no leisure-time physical activity (exercises, sports, physically active hobbies) in a 5-week period....or try a 5 MONTH period...this SUCKS...I hate being indoors...being forced to be indoors has to be 10x worse

Snap out of it already

2009-02-18T16:41:00.000-08:00

Ok so its been 7 days since I first felt the burning throat and the first tinges of the crud coming on but for golly jeesh after a LONG weekend of nothing but meds and rest you would think that I would have gotten over it by now. I felt better yesterday and returned to work only to start coughing and wheezing again so I am on yet another sick day today...wondering if I am not just 99.9% mentally insane....I do not like being sick and normally a cold doesn't slow me down but this one has floored me. Quite literally to the point where I just stay curled in bed for hours at a time in a comatose state of mind. There is absolutely nothing wrong with me, there is no reason at all for the funk that I am in. It is so annoying, to myself, to everyone around me...I just need to snap out of it already.

Give Us This Day

2009-02-11T03:55:00.000-08:00

I have been doing a lot of thinking over the past few days...and not a lot of blogging. So I really should put my thoughts on record. So what has been placed on my heart this week? It seems each new week brings a new opportunity or a new interest...I've been applying for jobs everywhere I can find an opening...you will never guess where the lastest opening is that I've found...there is an administrative officer position opening with the Peace Corp. This would be somewhere in the EMA region...(Europe, Mediteranian, and Asia) From reading the job description it sounds like I may actually qualify for this job...the only reason why I would qualify for this job would be because I have been here in the job that I am in for the past two years....the job that I feel I am wasting my time and accomplishing nothing in...the job where some days I ask over and over again...Why am I here?...This job has prepared me for a bigger opportunity. It wasn't a huge roadblock as I've been perceiving it to be all along but rather a stepping stone. Its humbling to see the picture that God has painted for us when He allows us a tiny hint at what could be in our futures...sure it is a job on the other side of the world and not exactly what I had "planned" but it is an opportunity that two years ago I would have run from...today I find myself eager and hopeful that I am chosen. I can't even begin to know what that would mean...but I am eager to learn.

Song of the week: Here I am by Downhere - sorry I haven't been able to find a link to share it, hope you've heard it, its a very powerful song. Many Blessings! Kim

“Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread.”
by Max Lucado

What a statement of trust! Whatever you want me to have is all I want. Some days the plate runs over. God keeps bringing out more food and we keep loosening our belt. A promotion. A privilege. A friendship. A gift. A lifetime of grace. An eternity of joy. There are times when we literally push ourselves back from the table, amazed at God’s kindness. “You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup fills with blessing” (Ps. 23:5 MSG).

And then there are those days when, well, when we have to eat our broccoli. Our daily bread could be tears or sorrow or discipline. Our portion may include adversity as well as opportunity.

This verse was on my mind last night during family devotions. I called my daughters to the table and set a plate in front of each. In the center of the table I placed a collection of food: some fruit, some raw vegetables and some Oreo cookies. “Every day,” I explained, “God prepares for us a plate of experiences. What kind of plate do you most enjoy?”

The answer was easy. Sara put three cookies on her plate. Some days are like that, aren’t they? Some days are “three cookie days.” Many are not. Sometimes our plate has nothing but vegetables—twenty-four hours of celery, carrots, and squash. Apparently God knows we need some strength, and though the portion may be hard to swallow, isn’t it for our own good? Most days, however, have a bit of it all. Vegetables, which are healthy but dull. Fruit, which tastes better and we enjoy. And even an Oreo, which does little for our nutrition, but a lot for our attitude.

All are important and all are from God.

The next time your plate has more broccoli than apple pie, remember who prepared the meal. And the next time your plate has a portion you find hard to swallow, talk to God about it. Jesus did. In the garden of Gethsemane his Father handed him a cup of suffering so sour, so vile, that Jesus handed it back to heaven. “My Father,” he prayed, “if it is possible may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matt. 26:39).

Even Jesus was given a portion he found hard to swallow. But with God’s help, he did. And with God’s help, you can too.

Prayers are working...keep them up! and THANK YOU! :)

2009-02-04T16:42:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite songs. It is an awesome song that fits my mood a lot of days, especially of late. Some days when there are just no words...just peace.

Spring...NOT!!!

2009-02-02T06:52:00.000-08:00

After a weekend of warm southernly winds and sunshine, the snow was starting to melt and there are patches of ground showing through in spots...the snow turned soft and slushy...it was ALMOST like spring was actually probable....the 40 degree temps actually felt pretty WARM...but the north wind started to blow a gusty 60 mph....and this morning we are back to -11 and wind chill of -25...so spring...IT AIN'T HAPPENING :(

As anyone who knows me will know - this is like the movie - winter just keeps going and going and going - like a nightmare that I can't seem to wake up from...

Happy Chinese New Year - from a Boar!

2009-01-26T05:22:00.000-08:00

I couldn't resist pulling up my Chinese New Year Horoscope this morning...It almost brought me to tears when I read it... I really must go get ready for work now and stop procrastinating

Pig Overview
The Pig has many opportunities to shine this year. Your generous nature is apparent in all aspects of your life. It is an admired quality that people respect. This year, your inherent generosity plays a large role in areas that you may not even be aware and may pave the way to a possible career change. You have an abundance of friends and you are well loved by your family. this year will only enhance these relations. One area that may create some issues is that you seem to overextend yourself to a point where there isn't any time left for you. This could lead to a change in priorities and could promote some better organizational skills.

Pig Rating
53% (2 favorable 9 neutral and 1 unfavorable month)

Pig Career
The Pig may feel complacency in your current job position. This could be a year that you may need a change towards something that is more suitable for your needs. You may gravitate towards something that is more of a position that provides service to others, perhaps a non-profit organization or a customer service based position. Your busy schedule will also play a part in your work. You may be forced to choose between certain activities, as there are only seven, not eight days in a week. Whatever the course may be for your career, you will fit in well with your endearing personality.

Pig Relationships
Personally, 2009 will be a year that the Pig will enjoy much happiness. Both your social and domestic life will be endearing to you, providing you with encouragement and advice. Your family and friends will be the source of many memorable occasions this year. For the unattached Pig, there will be some romantic opportunities. Be careful who you let into your circle, as you tend to give others too much credit. July is a particularly favorable month for all Pigs.

Pig Health
The Pig would do well to watch your health this year. There may be an unforeseen incident that arises sometime during the year, most likely in late April or early May. This may cause you to look at your habits relating to your health. One area in particular is your diet. This year could provide a change in your eating habits, which could help other areas of your health.

Pig Wealth
There may be times this year when you are uncertain about your financial future, but there are things in your life that take precedence over money. You will be taken care of, but there may be times of financial uncertainty. A change will come in the second half of the year that will provide greater financial comfort and allow you to live at a means that is more accustomed to your liking. Be patient, as the change will come.

Heart Song

2009-01-21T06:56:00.001-08:00

This song has been running through my heart for a while. I don't know where we will find ourselves at next but I know that God knows and this gives me great comfort. I read something this morning from my Grace for the Moment Devotional that struck a chord and rings so true to my heart....

"My kingdom does not belong to this world. John 18:36" Unhappiness on earth cultivates a hunger for heaven. By gracing us with a deep dissatisfaction, God holds our attention. The only tragedy, then, is to be satisfied prematurely. To settle for earth. To be content in a strange land....We are not happy here because we are not at home here. We are not happy here because we are not supposed to be happy here. We are "like foreigners and strangers in this world"(1 Peter 2:11)...And you will never be completely happy on earth simply because you were not made for earth. Oh, you will have your moments of joy. You will catch glimpses of light. You will know moments or even days of peace. But they simply do not compare with the happiness that lies ahead. When God Whispers Your Name

...and today's devotional A HEART LIKE HIS
"we are like clay and you are the potter; your hands made us all." Isaiah 64:8
God wants us to be just like Jesus. Isn't that good news? You aren't stuck with today's personality. You aren't condemned to "grumpydom" You are tweakable. Even if you've worried each day of your life, you needn't worry the rest of your life. So what if you were born a bigot? You don't have to die one. Where did we get the idea that we can't change? From whence come statements such as, "It's just my nature to worry" or, "I'll always be pessimistic. I'm just that way."...Who says? Would we make similar statements about our bodies? "It's just my nature to have a broken leg. I can't do anything about it." Of course not. If our bodies malfunction, we seek help. Shouldn't we do the same with our hearts? Shouldn't we seek aid for our sour attitudes? Can't we request treatment for our selfish tirades? Of course we can. Jesus can change our hearts. He wants us to have a heart like his. Just Like Jesus

In GOD We Trust, All others we monitor

2009-01-20T12:29:00.000-08:00

I am an optimist (most of the time) but today is a sad day for me. Its hard to watch an end of an era come without some reflection on the past. GW has been our faithful leader since he became Govenor of Texas in 1994. 15 years of leadership under his wing. I wish him and Lady Laura all the very best in their new Texas home. I hope he left Washington with a sense of peace. I hope he leaves with his sense of self intact and his faith as his guide. The same smiling faces that greeted him coming in 8 years ago are now greeting a new President and a new era is beginning. Will a difference be made? GW had such great hope for our nation and look where we are now. And all because of greed and selfishness. Where are we headed as a nation? Only God knows. If this is the beginning to the end we all know how that story plays out. It is a promise worth more than anything. It is hope. Hope trumps fear on any day, in any place, at any time. May God Bless America Always.

YO-YO of emotions

2009-01-16T06:48:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I should have known something was up when I was in a really really good mood on the way to work. It was an off feeling after a week of being in the blahs. I just felt HAPPY like everything was going to be OK....no matter what. Well by midafternoon I felt like the tide was starting to turn and my emotional outlook was boiling....turbulent and restless would describe it very nicely. My dear sweet hubs was caught right in the brunt of my emotional distress and didn't know what was going on. We took a midafternoon jaunt to Lowe's after dropping the SUV off at the dealership to repair a broken hinge on the back window. We were planning on purchasing knobs for our kitchen cabinet...we even got so far as picking out some really nice one and counting them out...then I had a major meltdown when we figured up the cost. While $90 may not seem much it suddenly hit me that every bit and piece we are putting into our house is just another chunk of our savings that we are giving away. We are going to be LUCKY if we can give our house away. It is an "investment" that went bad...way bad.

We have been thinking about the future and what the next few months will bring. Scott will retire on March 20th and then we embark upon a new life. A whole new life in the midst of a recession. The dream of moving to Texas has pretty much been shot down. I've come to the realization that my mom needs me closer so after 20 years of being away I am finally making the effort to move closer but we are finding that even that may not be possible. Finding jobs and an affordable house in Arkansas is turning out to be a lot more difficult than we ever dreamed.

So what happens now? Where do we go from here? We can't live here on one income and we can't move with zero income. The job market here is not all that great either but at least I am still working so that is something to be thankful for. We may have to stay here longer than we had ever hoped and that is something I am trying to figure out how to be thankful for. We are now two years into a 5 year ARM loan and we have one year to move and have it paid for by the AF. After August Cody will be starting his senior year...our window of opportunity to move away from here shrinks more and more every day.

So am I a bit out of whack or what???

SubZERO?

2009-01-15T16:33:00.000-08:00

Sure we have been experiencing some serious cold this week...with temps somewhere around -44 with wind chill. Why that just means we are a ginormic gourmet refrigerator! With winters that last somewhere around 7 months the residents here never get old...just well preserved! :)

Chatter from the North (will post translation on Friday)

2009-01-14T09:48:00.000-08:00

Oop Nort Dere

This should take you a minute or two!!!!!If you can read this, you are a TRUE MINNESOOTIN!*

Ven Two Minnesootins Meet Oop Nort On Da Lake Fichen!

Haydair

Lobuddy

Benearlong?

Coplhours

Crieps, cetchenenny?

Yepgoddafew

Vairdayittn?

Oberdair

Kindarday?

Valleyeennordern

Ennysiztooum?

Cuplapowns

Oofda, ittenard?

Yepsordalike

Vahchaoozindalindyrik?

Ohyeahdonchano

Fichenondaboddum?

Rydoopneardaboddum

Howdeeperya?

Bouttvenyfeet

Oh, Vachadrinkin?

Hadacouplabeers

Velligoddago

Tubad

Seeyaround

Yeahtakideeze

Guluk

Yoobetcha

Da Ent!!!

If you can't read this, translation can be supplied by Opp Nort

REAL e?

2009-01-13T12:08:00.000-08:00

SAD?

2009-01-13T11:06:00.000-08:00

"Sorry, but I'm suffering from a biochemical imbalance of my hypothalamus triggered by a melatonin deficiency in my pineal gland."

When the days start getting shorter and colder, and the nights longer and darker, many people start to suffer from winter depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD.) We outline some strategies for dealing with those winter blues.
Cheer up, you have a recognized medical condition: It might seems like curious advice, but for many sufferers the effects of SAD are greatly exacerbated by the fact that they just can't understand why they feel so darned miserable, and blame themselves for their grumpiness rather than a genuine mood disorder.
Thanks, however, to the pioneering work of U.S. doctor Norman E. Rosenthal -- who coined the term SAD in 1984 -- it is now widely acknowledged that winter depression has a sound medical basis, involving changes in the body's mood centers brought on by shorter daylight hours and a lack of sunlight.
If anyone accuses you of being a surly misanthrope between the months of November to February, you can justify yourself with words to the effect of: "Sorry, but I'm suffering from a biochemical imbalance of my hypothalamus triggered by a melatonin deficiency in my pineal gland. So get off my back!"
Cheer up even more, you're one of many. One of the worst aspects of any form of depressive illness is the sense of utter isolation and loneliness it induces.
There is thus some comfort to be drawn by SAD sufferers from the fact that you are surrounded by people who feel equally grouchy and nihilistic around this time of year. In the UK, according to the SAD Association, 500,000 people experience some form of winter depression, while in Sweden doctors have estimated that 20 percent of the population -- almost 2 million people -- are affected. One of the earliest descriptions of SAD comes from the Sixth Century chronicler Jordanes who, in his Origin and Deeds of the Goths, describes the excessively gloomy winter disposition of the inhabitants of Scandza, or Scandanavia.
Get more light: Without doubt the most effective clinically proven remedy for SAD is "light therapy," which has been shown to benefit some 80-85 percent of cases. Simple as it sounds this actually involves rather more than just turning on a light and sitting beside it for a while twiddling your thumbs as renewed cheer inexorably suffuses your being.
The average domestic or office light emits a paltry 200-500 lux (a lux is a unit of illuminance,) whereas a minimum of 2,500 lux is required to alleviate the symptoms of SAD. For the record, a clear summer's day can reach an intensity of 100,000 lux.
Fortunately, specially designed light boxes have been developed that emit precisely the right amount of illumination. These can be bought from specialist retailers and, at their most basic, cost around $190 (£100.) By sitting in front of one for a certain period each day -- 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the severity of your conditions -- symptoms gradually subside. Sadly, though, you won't be left with a suntan.
Try drugs or therapy: While greater light exposure is far and away the best treatment for SAD, addressing as it does root causes rather than just symptoms, both anti-depressant drugs and psychotherapy have also proved helpful to sufferers, especially those with especially severe symptoms. If you wish to go down this route you should seek advice from a medical professional, or else contact one of the many SAD support organizations that exist around the world (type Seasonal Affective Disorder help into an Internet search engine for an exhaustive list of such organizations.)
Move south (or north) for the winter: This may or may not be practical, depending on your circumstances, but studies have shown that the incidence of SAD increases dramatically the further north, or south, you go from 30 degrees of latitude. The condition is virtually unheard of in the Tropics, on the other hand, and it therefore stands to reason that a move to anywhere in the vicinity of the Equator for the duration of the winter should go a long way towards improving your mood (although whether three months in Mogadishu will completely cure you of the blues is uncertain.)
Watch Lawrence of Arabia, over and over again: Unlikely as it sounds, research has shown that winter depressives who watch films featuring warm, sunny, summery climates show demonstrable improvements in mood. Anything with clear blue cloudless skies, palm trees and an absence of snow ploughs should do, although with its endless shimmering desert vistas and eye-watering three and a half hour running time, David Lean's 1962 epic Lawrence of Arabia probably offers the most intensive movie therapy available.
Watching cricket or golf can, apparently, have the same mood-enhancing effect. Over-exposure to snooker, darts and indoor bowling on the other hand, has been known to bring on a state of depressive, trance-like catatonia that, in severe cases, culminates in complete mental breakdown.

ND Winter Humor

2009-01-12T08:02:00.000-08:00

True Meaning of Temperatures in North Dakota

60 above zero: Floridians turn on the heat. People in North
Dakota plant gardens.

(I planted pansies and johnny jump ups on Saturday - it was somewhere around zero out)
50 above zero: Californians shiver uncontrollably. People in
North Dakota sunbathe.
40 above zero: Italian & English cars won't start. People in
North Dakota drive with the windows down.
32 above zero: Distilled water freezes. The water in North
Dakota gets thicker.
20 above zero: Floridians don coats, thermal underwear, gloves,
wool hats. People in North Dakota throw on a flannel shirt.
15 above zero: New York landlords finally turn up the heat.
People in North Dakota have the last cookout before it gets cold.
Zero: ; People in Miami all die. People in North Dakota
close the windows.
10 below zero: Californians fly away to Mexico People in North
Dakota get out their winter coats.
25 below zero: Hollywood disintegrates. The Girl Scouts in North
Dakota are selling cookies door to door.
40 below zero: Washington DC runs out of hot air. People in
North Dakota let the dogs sleep indoors.
100 below zero: Santa Claus abandons the North Pole. North Dakotan's
get upset because they can't start the Mini-Van.
460 below zero: ALL atomic motion stops (absolute zero on the Kelvin
scale.) People in North Dakota start saying..."Cold 'nuff fer ya?"
500 below zero: Hell freezes over. North Dakota public schools will
open 2 hours late.

Tagged

2009-01-11T07:31:00.001-08:00

I was tagged by Dusty the other day to post the fourth photo from the fourth album on my computer. I have put all my photos onto an external notebook so this is one from way back. It is Christmas 1996 and we are at Scott's Mom and Dad's house in Albany. This is one of our rare Christmases spent with Mike and Sarah. I think they were passing through Minnesota that year for a visit to their Mom's sister.

Yes, for all ya'll out there that didn't know - Scott had two kids and was still married when I met him. (We were well into our relationship before I knew this) He got married in the Phillipines. We met in San Antonio in 1992.

We rarely see them at all now. Mike now lives in Wisconsin and Sarah lives in Missouri with her Mom. There are a lot of history that I could share but this is not the time or place. If your curious just ask.

Total ICE-solation

2009-01-11T06:54:00.000-08:00

Today marks the second year of our arrival to Grand Forks. That memory is burned into my memory for life. We left Albany that morning to temps in the mid 30s, as we drove the 3.5 hours to Grand Forks we watched as the temp gauge on the SUV progressively dropped into the sub zero range. The kids and I had never experienced sub zero before so when we arrived in Grand Forks, opened the car door and received our first icy blast of north wind it literally took our breath away. It felt like a knife stabbing into our lungs.

Today as I reflect back over the past two years I still have that same feeling of total isolation that we felt when we arrived. Who in their right minds would live here on this tundra of frigid northern valley? What were we thinking to come here?

I have never felt so alone in my life as I do here. My family is far far away and we only see Scott's family when we go visit them or their very rare visits here. Last time they came here was October. No one wants to come here in winter. No one wants to be here in winter. But those that can't get away are stuck here until spring thaw...whenever that may be. As I sit here looking out my window at the 5 ft snow drift outside the window I wonder just what spring is going to be like. They are predicting floods similar to that of the big one in 97' We still have months of snowfall ahead of us before spring comes. The snow so far has come from the west; it is dry and fluffy. The heavy snow comes when there is a storm from the south. So the guys that I work with are saying we haven't seen anything yet. The icy blast coming down next week is something the guys I work with have never seen here before. I think they always overdramatize things a bit but the last few storms they have actually been pretty accurate on so I don't plan on any outside activities in the upcoming week. With that said, Scott is helping his brother Joel this weekend to put siding on the outside of his sunporch. He needs it completed before he can refinance his house. Its a great time to refinance but I don't see paying a $4000 closing cost just to lower my interest rate a percent or two a huge savings. I cannot see why it costs so much to change paperwork. I deal with finacial paperwork all day every day and I know it can be done. Between you and me I think America is getting scammed. The American dream is dead and our futures are an uncertain abyss. I am just full of optimism and cheer today aren't I? Just rambling my thoughts and putting them on record. Thats the way it rolls. Peace out!

Survival Mode

2009-01-10T05:47:00.000-08:00

Well, its official. The winter blahs have set in. Its a long time till spring and I am already getting that cooped up feeling and all I want to do is hibernate the winter away. If I could just sleep till spring I would be totally happy...but I have to get up each day and go to work at the NWS and hear yet again how cold it is and how cold it is going to be...it is one thing to feel it in your bones but to sit and hear it ALL DAY is just about to drive me crazy. We are supposed to have a record breaking cold front come through next week...So if I lose it and start to ramble on about crazy things at random just chalk it up to winter taking yet another victim. I don't mean to be negative but this is how it rolls. Happy Winter Ya'll!

2009-01-05T12:58:00.000-08:00

Tell me WHY...

2009-01-01T10:13:00.001-08:00

Now tell me...do these look like the faces of criminals to you? They even came wrapped in the smell of sweetness and baby powder...

But now check out the bondage that they had to been unleashed from before they could be given the much deserved hugs and cuddles that they require

Now tell me...what child age 2 and up other than baby hudini himself can unleash these sweet babes from their packaging??? Nada...it takes Mom and Dad and some pliers and much perserverence to get the multiple layers of bondage from around their sweet little necks and feet...this is just wrong. Wrong I tell you. These kids are under tighter security than most national prisons. Why??? Why are these toys being subjected to such unjust and cruel punishment...not to mention the cruelty to parents that have to release them from their prisons before they can truly become a gift worthy of giving.

Happy New Year!!!

2008-12-31T13:39:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a joyful 2009!

May you be blessed beyond measure

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T08:06:00.000-08:00

From our family to yours, a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

May your heart be filled with Love

2008-12-24T08:32:00.000-08:00

Tonight will find some child all alone without a home or family to call their own. This makes me so sad because tonight we celebrate family and friends and laughter and life without a care in the world. We should care about these forgotten ones. These children may be surrounded by presents given to them by charities and kind strangers but what they really and truly want is the love of a family.

I would love more than anything to give them a home. Every single one if I could. There are so many. Each and every one is special. Each and every one deserves the love of a family. This is a present they may never know. This tears my heart to pieces. I would love to give them my love and my family but there are so many obstacles in the way to bringing them home.

If it were simple there would not be a child out there without a home, a family that loves them and hope for the future. This is my very simple wish. That there might be a way to give them this love, this family, this hope, this Christmas...and forever

Christmas Spirit

2008-12-23T08:42:00.000-08:00

I am really lacking in the Christmas Spirit right now...as I drove to work this morning in the beautful, fluffy new fallen snow I could SEE Christmas but I just couldn't FEEL Christmas...I was listening to the radio playing "Here comes Santa Clause" and wondering to myself "Where are you Christmas?" I LOVE listening to KLOVE but have tuned in to the local station that plays Christmas tunes because there is no Christmas Carols and everytime I tune in they are asking for money. Yes, I know this is a difficult time and we should ALL give whatever we can, but shouldn't it come from the heart? Shouldn't you want to do it and do it without being asked or seen? Putting a dollar in the Salvation Army pot is a nice thing to do...but would you do it if there wasn't someone looking? I actually prefer the pots where there is no one there but that is besides the point. I wish that there were not a need for someone to stand out in the freezing cold to collect a pocketfull of change. Why can't we all give because our hearts tell us it is the right thing to do when we SEE someone in need? Why don't WE be the ones that makes the difference in the world? All this commercialism and talk about the economy has really been grating on my nerves. Every penny in America is imprinted with "IN GOD WE TRUST" Yet our taxpayers money is spent on bailing out billionaires so they can continue to make the same mistakes with our hard earned money. Where is the sense of it all? Why do we NEED to spend, spend, spend for our economy to survive? Maybe we just need to fall to our knees and Worship, Worship, Worship. Its free and its pretty easy to do. All we have to give is ourselves. In return we receive the greatest gift of all.

Merry CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-22T04:37:00.000-08:00

I would like to wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas Week!

May your homes be filled with love, laughter and the special joys that Christmas brings!

Just a Momentby Max Lucado

It all happened in a moment, a most remarkable moment.
As moments go, that one appeared no different than any other. If you could somehow pick it up off the timeline and examine it, it would look exactly like the ones that have passed while you have read these words. It came and it went. It was preceded and succeeded by others just like it. It was one of the countless moments that have marked time since eternity became measurable.
But in reality, that particular moment was like none other. For through that segment of time a spectacular thing occurred. God became a man. While the creatures of earth walked unaware, Divinity arrived. Heaven opened herself and placed her most precious one in a human womb.
The omnipotent, in one instant, made himself breakable. He who had been spirit became pierceable. He who was larger than the universe became an embryo. And he who sustains the world with a word chose to be dependent upon the nourishment of a young girl.
God as a fetus. Holiness sleeping in a womb. The creator of life being created.
God was given eyebrows, elbows, two kidneys, and a spleen. He stretched against the walls and floated in the amniotic fluids of his mother.
God had come near.
He came, not as a flash of light or as an unapproachable conqueror, but as one whose first cries were heard by a peasant girl and a sleepy carpenter. The hands that first held him were unmanicured, calloused, and dirty.
For thirty-three years he would feel everything you and I have ever felt. He felt weak. He grew weary. He was afraid of failure. He was susceptible to wooing women. He got colds, burped, and had body odor. His feelings got hurt. His feet got tired. And his head ached.
To think of Jesus in such a light is—well, it seems almost irreverent, doesn’t it? It’s not something we like to do; it’s uncomfortable. It is much easier to keep the humanity out of the incarnation. Clean the manure from around the manger. Wipe the sweat out of his eyes. Pretend he never snored or blew his nose or hit his thumb with a hammer.
He’s easier to stomach that way. There is something about keeping him divine that keeps him distant, packaged, predictable.
But don’t do it. For heaven’s sake, don’t. Let him be as human as he intended to be. Let him into the mire and muck of our world. For only if we let him in can he pull us out.
It all happened in a moment. In one moment … a most remarkable moment. The Word became flesh.
There will be another. The world will see another instantaneous transformation. You see, in becoming man, God made it possible for man to see God. When Jesus went home he left the back door open. As a result, “we will all be changed—in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.” (1 Corinthians 15:51–52)
The first moment of transformation went unnoticed by the world. But you can bet your sweet September that the second one won’t. The next time you use the phrase “just a moment, … ” remember that’s all the time it will take to change this world.

Jaidens Birthday...

2008-12-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

How do I get this idea onto a cake in less than 24 hours? I just had this brilliant idea but it kinda came a bit late in the game...now to find the right stuff to pull it off. Well, there is going to be snow tommorrow that is one thing that is for certain...I hope I can make her third birthday magical and one that she will remember...she is so excited to wear her Princess dress and tiara!

44 Things about me

2008-12-18T09:55:00.000-08:00

that you probably didn't really want to know...but if you would like to play along please do this on your blog too (and let me know so I can check you out)

1. Do you like blue cheese? bleh - does that answer it good enough?

2. Have you ever smoked? Tried it once; it made me cough. A lot....I hate the smell of smoke so this should have been a warning

3. Do you own a gun? Not really but the boys do and I like to target practice with coke cans :)

4. What was your favorite Kool-Aid flavor? Berry Lemonaid

5. Do you get nervous before doctor's appointments? Hmmm...I avoid them at all costs so I guess I must say yes doctors make me nervous

6. What do you think of hot dogs? they are better than a cold dog

7. Favorite Christmas movie? The Grinch

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Coffee

9. Do you do push ups? I should, but no.

10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? A Mood Ring

11. Favorite hobby? Shopping!

12. Do you have A.D.D.? No...definitely not...what was the question again?

13. What's one trait you hate about yourself? I am too quiet

14. Middle name? Yvette

15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. I wish I weren't at work. It's freekin cold. There are a lot of strange noises in my office right now

16. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink. Coffee, Milk, Dr Pepper

17. Current worry. Where the next 3 months will find us

18. Current hate right now. Living so far away from family. And the cold. I realize that's 2 but they're both battling for #1 on my list of hates right now.

19. Favorite place to be? outside (when its warm outside)

20. How did you bring in the New Year? I think I went to bed early

21. Where would you like to go? Somewhere the temp AND wind chill is above 75..and it doesn't have to go DOWN in order to get warmer....for example -18 is COLDER than -2 so if the number is DROPPING the temp is actually RISING...oh this is complicated...that is why I don't do math!

22. Name three people who will complete this. Not a clue.

23. Do you own slippers? Yes...my favorites are a pair of pink crocs with fuzzy lining from AVON

24. What color shirt are you wearing right now? Multi colored sweater - greys reds with trees and snowflakes on it

25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? No, tried them once and they kept slipping off the mattress and I kept sliding across them so its too much work to sleep and try to stay in bed at the same time. I prefer Egyptian cotton

26. Can you whistle? a little

27. Favorite color? Blue

28. Would you be a pirate? Hmmm if Johnny Depp was my captive...sure

29. What songs do you sing in the shower? Christmas carols

30. Favorite Girl's Name? Katie

31. Favorite boy's name? Zachary

32. What's in your pocket right now? in my coat pocket there is a pink easter egg that Jaiden was playing with at church last night

33. Last thing that made you laugh? Jaiden being "Miss Attitude" this morning...sometimes you just have to laugh when a two year old INSISTS that she is the boss

34. Best bed sheets as a child? Holly Hobbie

35. Worst injury you've ever had? kicked in the ribs by my horse

36. Do you love where you live? Nope. No how. No way. I can't wait to move to someplace warmer than here and closer to family

37. How many TV's do you have in your house? 4

38. Who is your loudest friend? Krissie

39. How many dogs do you have? one Boston Terrier named Chloe

40. Does someone have a crush on you? I certainly hope not

41. What is your favorite book? My favorite collection of books is the Little House on the Prairie Series

42. What is your favorite candy? Chocolate! :)

43. Favorite Sports Team? Dallas Cowboys

44. What song do you want played at your funeral? ...Can I have two since it is my last request? My Wish by Rascall Flats and There You'll Be by Faith Hill

All I want for Christmas

2008-12-15T08:54:00.000-08:00

This is a powerful song that I heard for the first time this morning. Wow!

Monday Morning Musings

2008-12-15T05:20:00.000-08:00

I love the writings of Max Lucado and how they are so vivid and real. I got this in my inbox this morning and thought I would share it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did and may the reason for this Holy season not be forgotten. I know with the hustle and bustle and clamor of shopping for gifts we often forget the most precious gift of all.

The Arrival by Max Lucado

God had entered the world as a baby.
Yet, were someone to chance upon the sheep stable on the outskirts of Bethlehem that morning, what a peculiar scene they would behold.
The stable stinks like all stables do. The stench of urine, dung, and sheep reeks pungently in the air. The ground is hard, the hay scarce. Cobwebs cling to the ceiling and a mouse scurries across the dirt floor.
A more lowly place of birth could not exist.
Off to one side sit a group of shepherds. They sit silently on the floor; perhaps perplexed, perhaps in awe, no doubt in amazement. Their night watch had been interrupted by an explosion of light from heaven and a symphony of angels. God goes to those who have time to hear him—so on this cloudless night he went to simple shepherds.
Near the young mother sits the weary father. If anyone is dozing, he is. He can’t remember the last time he sat down. And now that the excitement has subsided a bit, now that Mary and the baby are comfortable, he leans against the wall of the stable and feels his eyes grow heavy. He still hasn’t figured it all out. The mystery of the event puzzles him. But he hasn’t the energy to wrestle with the questions. What’s important is that the baby is fine and that Mary is safe. As sleep comes he remembers the name the angel told him to use … Jesus. “We will call him Jesus.”
Wide awake is Mary. My, how young she looks! Her head rests on the soft leather of Joseph’s saddle. The pain has been eclipsed by wonder. She looks into the face of the baby. Her son. Her Lord. His Majesty. At this point in history, the human being who best understands who God is and what he is doing is a teenage girl in a smelly stable. She can’t take her eyes off him. Somehow Mary knows she is holding God. So this is he. She remembers the words of the angel. “His kingdom will never end.” (Luke 1:33)
He looks like anything but a king. His face is prunish and red. His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby. And he is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well-being.
Majesty in the midst of the mundane. Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat. Divinity entering the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager and in the presence of a carpenter.
She touches the face of the infant-God. How long was your journey!
This baby had overlooked the universe. These rags keeping him warm were the robes of eternity. His golden throne room had been abandoned in favor of a dirty sheep pen. And worshiping angels had been replaced with kind but bewildered shepherds.
Meanwhile, the city hums. The merchants are unaware that God has visited their planet. The innkeeper would never believe that he had just sent God into the cold. And the people would scoff at anyone who told them the Messiah lay in the arms of a teenager on the outskirts of their village. They were all too busy to consider the possibility.
Those who missed His Majesty’s arrival that night missed it not because of evil acts or malice; no, they missed it because they simply weren’t looking.
Little has changed in the last two thousand years, has it?

Visit with Santa

2008-12-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

Today we took the kiddos to see "The Grinch" and then went to Cabela's to shop for Jared a new pair of snowboots. We found Santa instead and the kids got a quick photo op on santa's lap.

Jaiden quietly whispered to Santa "I would like a Dora puzzle" she was just a bit shy but didn't cry although we thought for a minute she might.

Afterwards we went for haircuts...Jaiden had her first! Go check it out on her blog. I've put together a little slideshow of the big event. She looks so beautiful and smiled the whole time. She was a little afraid the wind was "going to blow the haircut away" which made me laugh...too cute! She really enjoyed her visit to the salon.

16 Amazing Years

2008-12-12T09:36:00.000-08:00

Today Scott and I celebrate 16 years together :) We had our very first date 16 years ago and have been together ever since. I called him by the way...it was just after my Squadron Christmas Party and I'd met him at work several weeks before and had been trying to drop hints through our coworkers to see what I could do to get him to ask me out...but he was and still isn't a very assertive type and had I waited I would probably not have ever gone out with him. His room mate at the time though had absolutely no qualms about asking me out and I had to repeatedly avoid him while trying to capture my one true love's eye. Our first date actually was on an outing with several of his friends (roommate included - ugh) In spite of that we had a great date obviously and I will never look at a Christmas tree by a fireplace without thinking back to that first date...:)

***I have a confession to make****
I am a horrid, horrible person....and you will and can say so after you hear why but in my defense I thought I made it perfectly clear that I DO NOT LIKE CUT FLOWERS...especially ones THAT WERE PURCHASED FROM A FLORIST...cut from the garden is ok, wildflowers and such are fabulous and they actually MEAN something...but PLEASE DO NOT BUY ME FLOWERS! I would rather have a living plant that I can keep for a long long time. Is that wrong? If you want to buy me cut flowers...keep them and enjoy them yourself. Because I don't enjoy seeing them die.

I came home yesterday to find hubs clearing the driveway (again) and when I say (again) it is like he would rather be clearing the driveway than being inside with his family...the wind is blowing and the snow just blowing back into the driveway again doesn't make any sense to me why it needs to be cleared away constantly...but that is his hobby so to each their own...I came inside to find on the table...cut flowers in a paper wrapper and a live poinsetta. This was not the only red I was seeing...I should have been happy that he was so thoughtful and sweet...instead I was LIVID. Does this man whom I've lived with for the past 16 years know me at all??? Not only do I dislike cut flowers from a florist but also flowers that I am destined to send to deaths door...so when he came in a few minutes later he found me a bit steamed. I told him I didn't want the flowers and to give them to someone else....so he threw them out into the snowbank. Hours later we came back from my office Christmas party and I asked him where they were...I got them out of the snow but they'd frozen and 5 minutes later when the warmed up were mush....so our anniversary didn't end especially well. I was left wondering how much if at all this guy really knows me. I love him unconditionally and that gets us through pretty much everything that life throws our way but just sometimes I wish he understood me. Guess that is why they say men are from Mars...any helpful advice?

First Blizzard

2008-12-12T07:10:00.000-08:00

If the weather predictions come true this will be our first real blizzard. My office has been abuzz with activity these past few days...one of the joys of working at the National Weather Service :) I am going to stock up on Oreos and cocoa and maybe read a good book :) Have a SAFE and cozy weekend! And if you're in Grand Forks and must travel - be careful!!! They are talking somewhere around 10.5 inches of snowfall. I know I will be making sure all our vehicles have winter survival kits before nightfall but plan on staying inside if at all possible.

Complete Winter Survival Kit

Warm socks, hat and mittens Long underwear Fleece or wool sweater and pants Ski or snow pants and jacket Sleeping bag or blankets Snow boots Water and a coffee can, pot or disposable bread pan (to melt snow in) Large stainless camp cup Dried fruit, nuts, granola, tea, Swiss Miss Shovel Flashlight and batteries Camp Heat, Sterno or emergency stove (to melt snow and heat water) First Aid kit 1 or 2 backpacking meals and spoonMatches and lighterEmergency candles/candle lantern
Multi=purpose tool or knife Colored ribbon (to tie to antenna) Vehicle Emergency kit (tire changing tools, fuses, belts, hoses, clamps, strapping tape, assortment of screws, nuts, washers and bolts, bailing wire, tow chain, sand, flares, booster cables) Tool kit (screw drivers, needle-nose pliers, channel lock pliers, crescent wrench) 25-50 ft. of nylon cord Windshield de-icer and scraper Hand warmers Ski goggles Compass Road maps Cell phone batteries A good book...

Home Sweet Isolation...

2008-12-11T03:58:00.000-08:00

Its not that we don't stay busy...last night was Advent service at church and the childrens Christmas pagent practice...tonight is the Christmas play at school...tommorrow is the Christmas Pary for my office...Saturday movie and Santa....Sunday church and then a spa party which I have agreed to host and now really regret because lately all I want to do after work is bury myself into a thick nest of blankets and sleep the winter away.

I don't know what is wrong with me lately. Ever since we got back from Arkansas its been a tough transition just to try to get normal back. Each morning Jaiden has woken up kicking and screaming and fighting my every effort to get her dressed and ready for daycare. This is not typical and I do not understand what she is going through. I try to have endless patience but sometimes it slips...especially when I have been late to work every day for the past two weeks because getting a struggling toddler into clothing takes a lot longer than normal...bundling her into layers is an additional challenge that is often met with a challenge so most times I just throw her jacket around her shoulders and carry her inside....or outside since in the afternoon she is just as stubborn and resisitant to getting a jacket on and coming home as she is to leaving home. Oh to just STAY home and not have to go through this daily. I am quite exhausted and do not look forward to the moment that I must wake her and begin it all over again. I wish we could stay home and cuddle. Last night she came and got into bed with me, something she doesn't normally do but while at Gramma's she slept with me so I am thinking this "new normal" is a bit of a transition for her getting back into the old "new" routine...we didn't have to deal with frigid weather in Arkansas or when we left...winter came sometime during the past weeks and its here to stay whether we like it or not.

What hurts the most is that home doesn't really feel like home here. I never thought I'd want to live in Arkansas but during our visit I started to see it with new eyes; how much the kids enjoyed being with their grandparents, how much Cody enjoyed hunting and target practice, how well we seem to just be welcomed into the church family every time we go even when it has been months or years since our last visit. Its a small community but they are family. I miss that. I don't feel like we have family here..sure we do but where are they? 3.5 hours away is not very close and it doesn't allow for very frequent visits. I also know that my Mom is not getting any younger. At 74 she is is decent health today but she is resistent to leave her home and I know someday she will not be able to do all the things she does today. She has lived hundreds of miles away from the only grandchildren she has for 17 years. I guess I am feeling guilty (finally) for living so far away and wanting to give it back before its too late to enjoy those moments.

With Scott retiring in just 3 months (Gasp) we still don't have "a plan" yeah ok so we've stopped trying to plan because it doesn't seem any of our "plans" were meant to be anyway. We take each new day as it comes. When March rolls around and we are still trying to figure out this new life and where to go I will trust in God's plan. Maybe He's talking already and gearing us up for this next new life...finding two federal jobs in the forests of Arkansas is a daunting challenge...but...upon doing a job search there is a forestry technician position open right now...and its just below my current job level (so not a major pay cut) only thing is I had a DREAM of being a park ranger...I didn't actually pursue this dream...so the qualifications thing is a minor issue...I don't know the ecology of a tree or how to manage the forest...it sounds like a great job....walking the hills and forests each day, taking measurements and observations, doing research and creating reports (just my cup of tea) but how to get from point A to point B in such a short time? Its more than my little brain can comprehend. what is the plan?

So when overwhelmed with decision and activities abuzz around me is it any wonder why I want to bury under the covers until spring? Cowardly approach to life I must admit but it appears darn appealing at the moment.

Its time to face the day.... Hope you have a great one! :)

*Morning Update: Today started off GREAT!!! I was in the bathroom getting ready for work when Jaiden came toddling out of her room and actually said Good Morning back when I said Good Morning to her, then we sat and cuddled for a while and then she watched the Higley Town Heroes while I finished my routine maintenance :) She didn't fight me (too much) when I got her dressed and didn't cry (hardly at all) during the morning rush. Thank You God!!!! I was beginning to feel like a Monster Mommy and was wondering if and when my sweet little girl would return. I am so very thankful for a peaceful morning. And Jaiden gave me the sweetest hugs and kisses when I left her at daycare this morning :) Her "attitude" was totally changed and she was her normal happy self again.

7 Random Things

2008-12-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by Audrey to do a meme and didn't even know it until I happened to be passing by her blog and saw my name. What a surprise! I love surprises and I especially love memes (is it pronounced Meme....rhyming with cream or Meme as in MeeeMeee?) I've always wondered but since this is done on a blog you never hear the pronounciation. Just curious if someone out there should know and would like to share that tidbit of knowledge I'd appreciate it! :)

The Rules
1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Write 7 random things about yourself.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post.

1. I wish we could keep our Christmas tree up all year

2. I wish our cat would stay OUT of the Christmas tree - every day I come home to see the lights drooping down around the bottom and a pile of ornaments scattered about the floor and some in other rooms of the house. The limbs are are bent out of whack and it looks like it has been violated.

3. I am looking forward to Saturday. I plan to take Jared and Jaiden to see the Grinch and visit with Santa at the theater

4. I have started getting the winter blahs already and every day when I come home all I want to do is crawl into a warm bed and sleep.

5. I think the snow here is like living inside a giant snowglobe...its very beautiful and the world has to slow down to a crawl

6. I am trying to decide what to do for Jaiden's 3rd birthday - she is going to have a princess party; she has a cute Princess dress and the invitations are pink tiaras for the girls and green frogs for the boys - I can't wait to send them out but I'm not sure where to have the party...options are 1)Home 2)McDonalds 3)movie theater....she's already stated that she wants ICECREAM at the party and every day she asks if she can wear her dress. Too cute! Since last year she wore black and attended a funeral for her Great Grandma on her birthday I want to make this year extra special for her.

7. I love Amazon! I have been finding some great deals online and it sure beats getting out in the cold and weaving through the crowds, trying to find a babysitter etc. Plus a lot of items have free shipping which is really great, I can shop at home and the goodies come to me :) I found the cutest surprise for Jaiden but you'll just have to wait to see it and I hope she loves it too.

TAG! The following friends have been tagged to do this on their blogs! :)

1. Heather

2. Dusty

3. Nicole

4. Susan

5. PIPO (OMG You're NEXT!!!) Congratulations!!! (LID 2 years, 9 months and 14 days - Whew! This gal is the pillar of patience)

6. Monica

7. Krissie

Photos from Thanksgiving

2008-12-05T17:28:00.000-08:00

Gingerbread House that lasted all of 5 min before it collapsed
Cody and his first squirrel
Jaiden clowning with Pappaws glasses
goats and donkeys on the farm
Princess, Cisco and Eeyore
Pappaw teaching Jared how to load his bb gun
the greenhouse 80 degrees....aaaaah!
Code man
Dinner Sat night; deer steak and home grown veggies
Playing checkers with Pappaw

Rollin' in the dough

2008-12-05T07:38:00.000-08:00

Momma and Jaiden taking a walk and looking for hickory nuts

Last night the house was warm and scrumptious with the sweet smells of vanilla and sugar wafting through the air...we made dozens and dozens of cookies for the church bake sale this coming Saturday. We made Peanut Butter cookies first and then Double Butterscotch cookies...I was up rolling dough into balls late into the night :) I'd never made the butterscotch cookies before but they turned out really nicely. I used the hickory nuts that my Mom gave me from our trip to Arkansas. There are some trees at her house that have huge hickory nuts but they are quite the challenge to get out of their shells. The taste is something similar to a walnut but its kinda sweet like a pecan.

If you hit a hickory nut on the ""bull-eye - a point about 1/3 of the way down from its stem - the husk should fracture approximately along the lines drawn on the sample pictured here. (The nut on the right has been cracked, and glued back together.) ABOVE: RIGHT: The sequence of steps used in opening one of the tough nuts. [1] Lay the nugget on its side and raise your hammer several inches above it. [2] Aim for that optimum impact spot. [3] Whack the nut sharply... and [4] it'll break cleanly into several pieces, from which you can extract the meats.

Hickory nut meats are rarely found on grocery shelves, simply because the kernels are so difficult to extract in large pieces. But you can forage a bushel of the odd-shaped nuts in one afternoon . . . and then (believe it or not!) shell them yourself to reap mostly large, beautiful nutmeat "halves". In fact, it's my opinion that every fruit, nut, or seed has a hidden "zipper" or "door" somewhere . . . all a person has to do is find the combination and open 'er up!

THE MYSTERY IS SOLVED
A lot of folks think that hickories—which are native to most areas of eastern North America—are well-nigh impossible to crack neatly . . . but if you strike one of the nuts in just the right spot, the shell will fracture along clean lines almost every time. I discovered the secret quite by accident one day while shelling a bowlful: I began to notice that if I struck one of the nuggets in a particular place—ping!—a piece of shell would fly in one direction and bounce off the screen door. I soon found that the predictable breakage pattern was due to the interior architecture (or framework) of the pod itself. A membranous partition—called the septum—divides the kernel in such a way that when a nut is struck near its stem end (where the thickest part of that membrane attaches to the outer hull), the shock waves can travel along the septum and through the shell . . . causing the rugged casing to fall apart in six separate pieces.

AUTUMN FORAGING
Hickory nuts usually begin to drop from the trees in early autumn, as soon as they're loosened by rain or frost. But, if you want to forage a good supply, be sure to head for the nearest grove as soon as the nuts start falling . . . since this wild food is a favorite of squirrels. The plumetailed scavengers are skillful hickory hunters too . . . if you're not quick, they may plunder your entire local crop before you have time to collect any nuts at all!

Take a bucket or sack with you on foraging trips (or just wear an apron with big pockets), and use a small stick to scratch around in the leaves under each tree. Most of the nuts you pick up will still be encased in their rough, dark hulls . . . which have to be removed before you can start cracking them. Some gatherers stomp on their crop to dehusk the "fruits", but I usually pick the sections of the outer coverings off carefully, one at a time. Whichever way you remove the hulls, though, don't throw away those hand-staining pods . . . they can be used as mulch material for your garden.

Movie Reviews

2008-12-03T12:35:00.000-08:00

Its been a fairly quiet week, getting back into the rhythm of our very uneventful life so not much to talk about...just wanted to share that we are really enjoying the "early" Christmas gift of the big screen that hubs got just a week ago. It was installed the day we left for Arkansas so we didn't get to enjoy it as a family until we got home last Sunday. The first movie we watched was Shrek III - and I must say....WOW! I am not much of a tv watcher but the colors on the High Def really pop and its almost like having our own personal theater in our den.

The next movie we watched was Night at the Museum...and I must say this is the first Ben Stiller movie that I have actually liked...in fact I really like this movie. It was a very good family movie. Jared and I were both a bit frightened at first when "Rex" was unleashed but after that it got pretty funny....definitely recommend it.

After that we watched IRON MAN. I've always been a fan of Robert Downey Jr since the bratpak days of yore...I am happy to see that he cleans up well and I'm hoping that his drug induced days are a thing of the past. Watching the movie right before bedtime was not a very smart move...I felt like I was flying for about an hour afterwards and it was nearly impossible to sleep so the next day I was exhausted. It was a great movie and if you are able to see it on a big screen with blue ray it is a truly awesome experience. Thanks to my Mom for that gift, it was a BIG hit! *My Mom bought the movie, not the TV - the TV is getting paid off over the next 3 years thanks to Best Buys 0% interest deal...couldn't pass that up!

Bathroom Makeover

2008-11-26T05:20:00.000-08:00

I think I've been watching a little too much HGTV...

As a Christmas present to my Mom I've agreed to undertake the painting of her bathroom. After several hours of painting primer around the trim I am still a long way from completion of this project...but I am hoping that it will turn out nicely before we have to leave on Saturday.

The bathroom is a mess right now so I will try to post after photos when it is done. The color is "Spanish Sage"

On the road again...

2008-11-21T03:10:00.001-08:00

In just a few hours the kiddos and I will head south (16hours/1058 miles south) to my Mom's house for a week in the woods. She lives out in the middle of the Ozark mountains on a hill, surrounded by trees and wildlife...chiggers, bear....

Please pray traveling mercies upon us "Yankee folk" as we make our way down south....I don't know if its the fact that the south is a bit "restless" right now or the fact that guns have been flying off the shelves that has gotten me on edge. I do not plan on making any extra stops along the way though...gas, 2 min potty break and then we roll. I grew up in the south and know how "outsiders" are looked upon. I never thought I would fit into that category but I guess living in the bubble this past couple years has really made me more aware of the dangers on the outside.

Anyway, its been a bit stressful getting prepared for this trip back. I'd really appreciate all your prayers during our journey. Have a great week! (My Mom has dial up modem so not sure how much updating I will be able to do for the next week and since I already stink at updating photos I will just leave with the hope and intention to load a slideshow upon our return to the bubble.

Racking up the sick days...

2008-11-20T06:56:00.000-08:00

Today is yet another sick day at home. Got lots done at work yesterday to catch up but the daycare called at around 3:50 to tell me that Jaiden's fever was back up to 103 again so we are hanging out at home today fighting off the germies. I ache all over so I think I will spend some time in bed myself to try to ward it off...that and a steady diet of alkaselzer cold medicine should help. If I do not blog again before Turkey day I want to wish you all a very special holiday with all the ones that you love.

In honor of sick days and the prevention thereof I am including todays list of 7 winter foods rich in antitoxidants

1. Artichoke Hearts (I've never had these; what do they taste like and how do you eat them?)
2. Beans (Beans, beans good for your heart...)
3. Cranberries (craisins are a household fave and I LOVE cranberry sause)
4. Pecans (does Pe-can pie count?)
5. Prunes (Love em or hate em so I've heard...I love them, they are yummy!)
6. Apples (Sweet and not too crisp is my favorite...I hate biting into and apple and having it feel like I just bit into a sweet rock)
7. Cloves (aaah simmering on the stovetop, brings the memory of sweet traditions)

What is YOUR favorite tradition for the holidays? I am so looking forward to my Mamma's home cooking; sweet potatoe pie, cornbread dressing, fried deer steak, home grown corn on the cob...so much to be Thankful for :)

Under the weather

2008-11-17T15:49:00.000-08:00

Jaiden came home with running nose and weepy eyes yesterday from her weekend adventure at Gramma's. Last night she woke several times in the night and her raspy breathing and croaky sounding cough was just awful. I stayed home with her and most of the day she was acting her normal bouncy self but this afternoon she is back to coughing, stuffed nose and buggery eyes. Ugh. Not looking forward to her having a nasty cold all week since the kids and I will leave on Friday to go to Arkansas for Thanksgiving with my Mom.

How to Cat Proof A Christmas Tree

2008-11-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

That darn cat keeps getting into the tree; there are no presents under it yet but he has a thing for bags so I need to find a solution before we start accumulating any "new toys" for him to test. There are some lower hanging ornaments that jingle and rattle when he touches the tree so I can hear him from another room and give him a shout out to get out of the tree. I did a search and found some handy tips:

Make sure that your cat or cats, are locked in a safe room large enough to hold it/them when everyone is either asleep or out of the house. This will keep your kitties from knocking the tree on the floor. (but I hate keeping him locked up all the time)

Use a piece of high test fishing line to connect the top of the tree to the ceiling. This will prevent the tree from tipping. (uh ok, but that is kinda creepy, not to mention unjust to hang your tree without a trial isn't it?)

Put any valuable ornaments somewhere in the top two-thirds of the tree. That way the cats can't reach them. (but then when the tree topples over those priceless ornaments shatter first- uh no thanks - I just put them deep into the recesses of the branches, nestled around a cacoon of artificial pine)

Hang ornaments by using wire ornament hangers. Use a pair of pliers to clamp the hook part around the branch. (ok this one would make the taking down part of the tree, which is already tedious enough an even greater chore - who wants to untangle wire from around each branch for every ornament?)

Use duct tape. If the tree is shorter than 6', use duct tape to tape the legs of the holder to a piece of wide ply-wood and put the whole thing on a short, sturdy table. This keeps the tree above their level and the cats won't be as interested. (this one is HILARIOUS - it brings to mind Jeff Foxworthy and the redneck Christmas song)

Plug the tree lights into a short indoor extension cord and tape the plug into the socket with electrical tape. Simply unplug the lights from the extension cord to turn off. (This one brings to mind the Lampoons Christmas)

Tips
Keep a small spray bottle full of water near the tree. If your cats still go after the tree, a light spritz of water on their back and a stern "NO!" will get the point across. (Now where the heck did that water bottle go? ...Oh yeah I took it from the kids when they were using it as a squirt gun)

Purchase several ornaments that are bells and hang them on the lower branches. If your cat tries to pull on the tree or hide underneath it, you will hear it. (Also suggested by Dusty on a post a few days ago, and it works great - Thanks Dusty!)

Cats naturally hate the scent of oranges, so keep orange peels under the tree to repel your cat.
If its a plastic tree, a small amount of Citronella oil shaken into a bottle of water and misted on to the tree makes it smell unpleasant to the cat but fresh and citrus-like to you. Where can I find some Citronella oil?

Consider getting a Scotch Pine. They have extremely sharp needles. Also works for curious small children. ( oh but those extremely sharp needles are extremely hard to get out of your carpet too - messy messy that is why I don't do real trees, besides the fact that I am scared to death of the tree going up in flames because it has dried out and the lights have become a thousand little torches and the presents underneath a pile of fuel - shudder)

For small kittens wrap tinfoil around the trunk. They don't like putting their nails into it and it will keep them from climbing the tree. (He hasn't tried climbing the tree yet - that I am aware of anyway)

Spray some pine cones with citronella and pile them around the base of the tree. Cats do not walk on pine cones! (also works great to put pine cones in the base of your houseplants). Oh, i gotta try this one - he is forever getting into the houseplants too and they have been moved into a room that is kept closed from his access)

Spray the bottom limbs with tobasco sauce to keep them from chewing the bottom branches. They wince and run away! (yee haw and ya'll have a very Merry TexMus with ya'll's gifts)

Decide to make it your cat's Christmas, too. Decide you are not going to get frustrated trying to outsmart your cat this year. Secure the tree to the wall or ceiling to keep it from toppling. Clamp ornaments to the branches with the metal hooks using pliers. Take pictures of your cat sleeping in the Christmas tree branches, and SMILE! >"< Hope this has brought a Smile to you too :) Have a great day!
Love,
Kim

Open House Review

2008-11-15T17:03:00.000-08:00

Rejoice, REJOICE in all things REJOICE - As I was so humbly reminded this morning, we should rejoice in ALL things. I was not seeing many positives last night but today I see that I have shoppers (plural) and I am grateful to God for the blessings He has given in the fellowship that I shared last night in the company of 7 friends.

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near." Phillipians 4:4-5

Open House Jitters

2008-11-14T09:18:00.000-08:00

In a few short hours hubs and the kids will head off to the inlaws for the weekend and I will be left to finish planning for the consummation of an open house event which I have scheduled for Sat between 2 to 5. So anyone feeling the urge to pray for someone in need, please indeed let it be me :)

I have been prepping for this for ages now (or so it seems) and have invested quite a large chunk of our funds into making this business grow outside of my circle...so I am hoping that this weekend will be a success. Meeting a few neighbors would be nice too since during winter there is not a tendency to linger out by the mailbox much.

I've been making baskets of goodies all week and trying to come up with ideas to make this party rememberable...so my question of the day for all you out there in bloggerland is what do you remember the most about a party that you have attended? Clean answers please...there will be no running Columbo through the snow!

I am Thankful

2008-11-10T11:40:00.000-08:00

Our Sunday School class was issued a challenge at church yesterday to come up with a list of things that we are thankful for and scriptures that go along with or motivate thankfulness. I have a list about 10 pages long of things to be thankful for but I may need help in finding scriptures to go along with them...so if anyone has any inspirational verses to share as you read through my list I encourage you to please leave a comment...in order for me to officially "do my homework" just leave the chapter and verse and I will find the scripture and post it here (if that's ok with the person sharing) These are not sorted in any special order, just as I think of them...although God, family and friends are right up there on the top of my list :)

1. Almighty God
"And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him" (1 John 4:16).
2. Jesus Savior
"For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, that whosoever shall believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life" John 3:16
3. Holy Spirit
"For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth" (Ephesians 5:9).
4. Family
5. Friends
6. Wisdom
7. Kindness
8. Love
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians13 Thank You Dusty!
9. Compassion
10. Laughter
Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them." Psalm 126:2
11. Generosity
12. Food
13. Clothing
14. Shelter
15. Hope
" For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 Thank You Dusty!
16. Patience
We are "strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness" (Colossians 1:11).
17. Perserverence
18. Peace
19. Freedom
20. Health
21. Happiness
22. Forgiveness
No longer will a man teach his neighbor, or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest," declares the LORD. "For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." Jeremiah 31:34
23. My Country
"I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing." Genesis 12:2
24. Veterans
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31
25. Strength
The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him." Exodus 15:2

"a bit of snow"

2008-11-08T06:44:00.000-08:00

As per Jared's observation this morning, we got "a bit of snow" last night A light dusting - not the blizzard that the weatherpeeps were hoping for/expecting to come our way. So its not quite a white winter wonderland outside but it is pretty darn cold and the wind is blowing so that makes it feel all the more chill. Good day to stay indoors - hubs is still here; he was going to go visit family with the kids last night and take our excess "stuff" to his brothers storage shed but the trailer lights weren't working so plans were thwarted at the last moment and I am not all alone this weekend after all...which is nice :) I plan on cleaning and pulling out holiday decor to set up for my open house being held next weekend. I am hoping this will "kick start" the business and get it going since I am buying waaaaaay more than I am selling and at this rate I will have to get another part time job to pay for this one....hopefully not. Someone out there has to love Avon just as much as me...hopefully more ;)

Just brought out a few boxes of holiday lights and you'd think by that smile it was the happiest day of his life - I LOVE that smile! He is such a sweet kid he said to me tonight "Mom, our house is looking so awesome!" I soooo love you Bear! (our house is a total disaster right now because I have been building gift baskets all day and there is stuff everywhere) He went out and shoveled the snow this morning, while his dad was gone, all by himself; he even asked if he COULD shovel...like it was some sorta treat to do so. He's one great fella! We are so very blessed and thankful beyond all measure for this sweet boy.

this is our doggie Chloe...getting the traditional antler donnage on decorating day. Sorry sweetie, its a tradition in this household.

Here's the gals of the house wearing our traditional santa caps :)

Intervues continue...

2008-11-07T04:20:00.000-08:00

I am "auditioning" artists for the Christmas Joy playlist I have running over there at my blog store....there are so many versions of those old familiar classic tunes that I am having a hard time desciding which ones to keep and which ones to delete. So I'm asking for your help here. Can you tell me your favorite Christmas song and the artist that sings it the best?

If your in the mood to listen to some Christmas tunes, go check out my Avon blog --->

Have a great day! It's FRIDAY!!!!!!

A "present" for you

2008-11-06T10:17:00.000-08:00

Ok, I am soooo sorry! I need to apologize to my friend Heather. I didn't mean for my post to sound like THAT. I thought it was great that we picked the same design when there were literally hundreds to choose from! Please check out Julia's blog if you would like to see what the heck I am talking about. (We both chose this background at the same time) It's sooo CUTE!

....and if you are interested please check out my Avon blog as well :) Happy Shopping!

Caution: Be prepared to get into the Christmas spirit :) I know its only November but Christmas is my favorite time of year. We put our lights up last weekend...I have an open house scheduled on the 15th so I will be putting up the Holiday decor inside this weekend...hmmm that should be interesting because Jak really likes to attack anything that moves. I had to move our cookooo clock because he kept knocking the pendelum down. He loves to climb trees....hmmmm wonder how many times we will have to yell "TIM-BER" Anyone know how to keep cats off furniture and things were they shouldn't be?

messing around...

2008-11-05T19:24:00.000-08:00

I am trying out some new looks for my blog. Please let me know if it is not sized proportionately. I am trying to find one that "fits" just right. Bear with me! ;)

If you want to start your holiday shopping early or just want to get into the Christmas spirit, go over and visit my Avon blog ----> gotAVON? Tell me what you think.

As for me and my family we shall serve the LORD

2008-11-05T02:19:00.000-08:00

We work for the federal government so the election this year has been a bit stressful. But in spite of it all we know who is in charge. So we may need to re-prioritize some things this year. I will start with some goals for myself and my family.

1. Love thy neighbor...we hardly even KNOW our neighbors so I am putting this goal at the very top because it is a very important commandment and in this day and age a very neglected one. I pledge to make an effort to not only love them but to get to know them too. How will I do this? Random acts of kindness? Have them over for coffee? Not sure, I will be praying for the answer.

2. Make sure the kids brush their teeth better. Yes this may be a weird priority but after paying over $300 in copays this last couple of weeks for fillings this has trumped a lot of other seemingly more important things. So we are not going to fret about buying new toothbrushes, we will not skimp on toothpaste, floss or rinse. This is very important and we have to address the need for clean healthy mouths.

3. Read a book. Reading has always been a favorite pastime of mine but it seems to be lost on todays generation where tv watching and video games often takes priority. I would like to see my kids reading more so I need to set the example for them to follow. When they come to me with a book I will embrace the opportunity for this moment of learning, growing and a nice cuddle too. I may return to my original childhood favorite this winter "Little House on the Prarie" I've been wanting to re-read the series and relive the wonder of that long lost era.

Ok that is the top 3...I'm sure I will add more but for now that is a good start. I am asking for ya'll out there to please pray for our family during this next few months. It is getting more and more stressful trying not to think too hard about what will happen once Scott is retired from the Air Force and how long we will be here...its all in God's hands.

uh I can't watch please tell me when it's over...

2008-11-04T17:45:00.000-08:00

oh I shouldn't have but I just hit the yahoo home page again and they are tallying up the electorials already...uh I shouldn't watch this stuff...it makes my belly hurt...so much is riding on this election and who will be our next president but I am trying to focus on the one truth: God is in control and IN GOD WE TRUST Amen No matter what happens...no matter what

The Name Game

2008-11-02T15:45:00.000-08:00

I saw this on Three Dumplings and thought it looked like fun!

1. YOUR REAL NAME:Kim

2. YOUR GANGSTA NAME: (first 3 letters of real name plus -izzle.)Kimizzle

3. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color and favorite animal)Yellow Horse

4. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (your middle name and street you live on/or neighborhood if it's a number)Yvette SouthPoint

5. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name) Kleki

6. YOUR SUPERHERO/CRIMINAL NAME: (Your 2nd favorite color, and favorite drink)Blue Kahlua

7. YOUR IRAQI NAME: (2nd letter of your first name, 3rd letter of your last name, 1st letter of your last name, 2nd letter of your moms maiden name, 3rd letter of your dads name, 1st letter of a siblings first name, and last letter of your moms first name). Iekcvka

8. YOUR WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: (parents' middle names)Riley Katheleen (sounds very familiar, I think people could find me)

9. YOUR GOTH NAME: (black, and the name of one of your pets) Black Jak

10. YOUR HOOD NAME:....first 3 letters of your first name plus iqua: Kimiqua

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T04:03:00.001-07:00

I am running late, gotta go get ready for work - Cody is feeling much better today. It was a 24 hour bug.

Happy Halloweeeeeen! I will get photos posted later but not sure when since it will get busy in just a few moments and then not slow down till the kids are in bed tonight...after injesting a pound of candy like that is going to happen. It will be an all nighter....not that I am going to let them injest a pound of candy...but somehow one piece turns into another...and then another....

Have a spooktacular day! What's your plans for Halloween?

OK - here's the update on our day: At around 1:30 PM I started getting hallucinations...seeing bright fuzzy lights and blurry, unfocused vison, didn't have a headache though so I popped a couple Migraine pills and hoped like heck it would pass...around 2pm the pain felt like my eyeballs were about to explode...so I took off work and made it home feeling very nauseus...and annoyed...who has time for a migraine on HALLOWEEN!!!

I crashed for a bit and felt better when the kiddos headed out at 6pm to go trick or treating so I tagged along. Couldn't miss the fun of Jaiden's first real trick or treating! She was into it for all of about 5 minutes as you can see from the photo of her running down a driveway with her Dad. After about half a block both were asking when they could go home. It was a gorgeous night, the sky was full of stars and the fresh air felt nice and not too cold. I could have walked the entire neighborhood but I'm glad they were ready to go home because by the time I made it home I had a splitting headache. We got the kids into jammies and they didn't eat but a few pieces so far, that stash is going to last for a while I think. I had just eaten some dark chocolate when the migraine hit me...my mom is ALLERGIC to chocolate...I am hoping that this doesn't mean that I will soon follow suit...I can't imagine a life without CHOCOLATE!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

"That is going to go straight to my hips!"

I need your help

2008-10-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

I have added a new blog to my lineup; I am goin to take all the ads off my family site and divert it to my "business" site. I need for you to check it out and tell me honestly what you think.

I designed the ad banner myself (as I'm sure you can tell) I'm very amature but the white dots in the g and the o....don't they look a little bit like eyes to you? I thought that was kinda neat...it wasn't intentional that it happened to come out like that....also if you look really closely they like a tad bit like boobies....which is sorta the heart of the reason behind starting this new business. I want to somehow give back and by doing this in some way I may be able to help out others. My Mom is my inspiration - she is a breast cancer survivor of 5 years now and I am so very proud of her and her grit and determination to not let it slow her down. She is 74 years young and still doing things that would wear me out....sometimes it wears me out to just listen to her talk about what all she did in a day. I need to get her onto blogging so you can meet her and see how wonderful she truly is.

Anyways, hope you will take a gander over at the new site and check it out for yourself. Any ideas or tips on how to make it look more professhinal and appealing would be most appreciated! Thanks for stopping by my blog and have a most beautiful day!

Nurse in Training

2008-10-30T08:29:00.000-07:00

I'm staying home with Cody today who is sick with a stomach flu. He woke yesterday with a headache and by noon it had turned into a migraine...he also has a fever which hubs tells me you can't have a migraine with fever...he used to have migraines too so I figure he should know but was wondering if anyone else out there has information on these symptoms. He is queasy nauseous and has bowed before the thrown and deposited all that he had to give if you know what I mean so much that he is exhausted and has the dry heaves. I've given him crackers, toast and 7up and Pepto to help with the nausea. Any other suggestions....?

Ode to little Jimmy Dickens

2008-10-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

This is a hilarious story my Mom told me this morning:

(caution please do not read if you are a chicken rights activist)

I was telling my Mom about getting locked out of the house this weekend (another story) and she told me about a story of how little Jimmy Dickens (the singer) had a similar thing happen to him way back when...that brought back memories of the little rooster that she had named "Little Jimmy Dickens" because it was so little and so loud...and that was this rooster Jimmy Dickens thing: he was little and loud...anyway I told her that her story reminded me of that mean old rooster that she used to have...she replied back that she had forgotten all about that chicken (my Mom NEVER forgets anything) she proceeded to tell me how Jimmy Dickens met his match...you see this little chicken was not only little and loud but he was also very mean. He would chase after you and attack you for no apparent reason. He got Cody when he was just a little fellow (mind you that this all took place about 15 years or so ago) Apparently he also tried to attack my mother...and no bird or anything else gets away with messing with my mamma! She took him up by the neck and was about to chop off his head with a DULL chopping axe and my stepdad came out to see what all the commotion was all about...little loud Jimmy put up a squawking fight to the very end...well my mom says "I am about to get rid of this chicken" my stepdad said "you can't do that" and she replied "well, you just watch me" and she did. You can bet I have a whole new respect for my momma now. She has some grit in her. I can see now why my stepdad is so well behaved and agrees to her every wish....she's put the fear of Jimmy Dickens in him.

Happy Friday!!!

2008-10-24T08:34:00.000-07:00

I've been TAGGED!

2008-10-22T15:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks Dusty! I feel so loved :) You are always here to make me feel better and today I really needed it. The weather has turned gloomy and cold and this nasty pinched nerve just won't go away...You are an awesomest friend! And I can SOOOO relate to your comment of being from NE Louisiana and being asked if that were in cajin country or New Orleans. I get that ALL THE TIME too...people out there that haven't ever been to Louisiana...there is other parts to that state (other than New Orleans) and no its not all swamp land either.

Ok here's the rules:

1. Link to the person that tagged you, and post the rules on your blog

2. Share 7 random or weird facts about yourself

3. Tag 7 random people at the end of your posts, and include links to their blogs

4. Let each person know that they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Okie, Dokie lets see what I can thinks up....

1. I really don't like to be alone, although I seem to be a loner, I've always felt comfortable in a crowd even when I don't know anyone; I love meeting people but I don't always have a lot to say so I have been labled as "quiet" I don't think I am quiet; I just don't like to talk out loud.

2. I love to cook but I hate to clean...so the latter usually prevents the former from being a very interesting experience. When I cook I tend to be quite messy...like last night when I made some apple turnovers...needing to use up those yummy apples that God gave us this year I chose to try a new recipe I found online...the crust came from the freezer department and the apples were simple to peel, slice and chop - the kiddos helped which made it really fun but tripping over each other in the kitchen made it a bit messy too...sticky syrupy apple filling was all over the counters when I was done...but the turnovers were excellent!

3. I tend to choose fun over functional...which is totally opposite from my very conservative husband but somehow he has managed to love me through 15+ years of lifes challenges. He's the best person I have ever met and always willing to lend a hand, and he loves building things...I tend to love to "find" things...so I guess I am the artistic, optimistic always looking for that rainbow in the storm...sometimes to the frustration of my loving husband that is trying to put the umbrella over me to keep me safe and dry.

4. I want to make a difference in the world. I don't know how and I often find myself wondering what my purpose on Earth must be....sometimes I feel so alone and afraid that when I am gone I would not have made any difference at all. I tend to be a bit extravagant, never wanting to do anything halfway...I dream big and want big things to happen and get frustrated when they don't happen overnight...my patience level is puny. I really need help working on that.

5. I want to be a giver. I love to nurture and provide comfort. I think that would be the greatest job in the world to be able to provide to others and bring them joy through the little acts of kindness that I might be able to provide...but I don't have a very good sense of self motivation and so the empowerment is missing...I tend to not make very good choices on my own so I tend to look for outside leadership and I need to work on finding positive sources of leadership in which to follow....

6. I am really glad there is only two more to go because I am feeling very exposed....I like to write...obviously

7. I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to adopt a sibling group someday...but I am soooo frustrated right now because the MN laws require that both parents attend a two day training class during the weekday and the closest class is 2 hours away. The logistics of this is making me crazy. If we lived anywhere but here I could call upon friends or family to come stay with the kids but here we do not know anyone and we can't leave the kids alone for two whole days on their own. Our closest relative is 3 hours away...and won't come all this way all alone....in MN there are only about 2 classes a year on our side of the state...most are held in the cities which is 5 hours away. It would be just as easy to go 5 hours away as it would 2...getting away for that long is going to be the issue to overcome. There is a class next month but Scott can't go because it is also a long weekend and if he goes he will have to take 5 days of leave and he is trying to save his leave so he can retire in March...so please pray for us ya'll that we find our direction because sometimes it feels like we're just spinning in a circle and getting nowhere.

Ok, well there you go...that was 7 very random and often times weird facts about me. Now I tag:

1. Heather - my cyber friend that's been with me through a LOT and hope to someday get the chance to meet in person, especially now that she lives in Florida ;) But I would have liked meeting her in Texas too!

2. Nicole - over at QuickStartMyHeart I love her blog, her family and she's the sweetest friend...I think we may be long lost sisters because we have a lot of things in common. We may not be blood kin but she will always be a sister of mine; we are joined together by the bond of our Tonguu girls.

3. Krissie - my real life friend :) We have known each other since meeting at a scrappin party at Becca's house in 2001. She followed us to Germany...will she find her way to us in Grand Forks too??? That would be totally awesome. :) She has such a wonderful family and lives life to its fullest praising God every step of the way.

4. Barbara over at Candy Hearts and Paper Flowers is a Grand Forks blogger and she has the most creative ideas for just about anything. She is so very helpful and nice too.

5. Leo from Confession of a thirty something. I love reading her blog, she is very nice and I feel like I take a mini vacation to another world every time I visit her blog.

6. Amy my newest blogger friend and the only blogger I know in Minnesota. I don't know you all that well yet but I hope to meet you and your family someday.

7. I don't know any more bloggers that haven't been tagged yet so if you are reading this and you have not been tagged, consider yourself tagged!

Hope you've enjoyed todays TAGATHON :)

I've tried everything

2008-10-22T03:59:00.000-07:00

It's been 3 days since I woke with a crick in my neck and I still have a pinched nerve...what will make it go away? I've tried water therapy, heat therapy, massage therapy, muscle relaxers, tylenol, aspirin, motrin..but there is still a knot in the center of my back making it difficult to use my right hand or move very quickly. What should I try next?

22 Tuesday

2008-10-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

I will be submitting an order for campaign 22 Tuesday so if you haven't placed an order yet and were waiting for that perfect moment, this is it! This is the last chance to order from campaign 20 brochures. Let me know what you like, favorites, not so favorites...if you provide a review I will give you 10% off your next order. So go ahead, what's your favorite Avon product? What is your least favorite?

*Super Sale* Save up to 72% on Shimmering Body Powder when you mix and match any three for $5. Pair this with a lotion and fragrance and you have a great gift basket for a man or a woman!

Pair up PLANET SPA Mediterranean Olive Oil Conditioning Hair Mask with a head wrap towel and you have a great spa treatment in a bag!

Curves® for Women Flex Trainer - purchase any Curves product and receive a FREE two week Curves membership!

Men's Classic Leather Strap Watch $19.99
971-991

Holiday Lighted Leg Sitters $12.99!

Hanna Montana Hand Cream (only at AVON) $1.49

Shop my online store and see for yourself there is more to Avon that just makeup. Thank YOU soooooo much for your support!!!

Nights in Rodanthe

2008-10-17T18:13:00.001-07:00

I have a date with hubs to go to a late night movie tonight...nights in Rodanthe. I am a sucker for romance so I am very excited to see this movie. I just watched "Because I said So" last week and loved it....Have you seen any good movies lately?

**** Rating: 4 Stars - I would love to give it a 5 rating but I didn't think Richard Gere was a very convincing choice for his part. The house, the beach, the horses, the crab fest, dancing on the boarwalk...I could so live there. This is a movie I could watch again and again. I love the sea glass curtain, the glass chandaliers and candlesticks...it was all very me. That is how I would love my house to look. Lots of character and personality. This was a tear jerker but because Gere wasn't a very convincing actor I didn't tear up until the little girl said "Mom?......momma?" That did me in. What can I say, I am a big softie....this is a great movie. ****Review update....I did some research on the movie...I am a research nut...and found out that maybe I should have not done any research and just loved the movie version of the house....because I found out that this is a real house and it is rentable...but the inside is not the inside that you see in the movie. They actually filmed the interior shots at a different location...the inside of this house is very modern...and boring. I am very disappointed....the interior of the house on the movie is what made the house come alive and gave it character. The only thing it really has in common with the movie is that it really does have plumbing problems...and has been condemned.

Friday 5

2008-10-17T13:49:00.000-07:00

I am starting a contest called Friday 5. Sign up at my online store and you will be automatically enrolled in the drawing for a grab bag of goodies each week. Good Luck!

Sick Days and Dental Checkups

2008-10-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

Jared woke up at midnight last night...well we all did I suppose. He came home from school yesterday with a bit of fever and a tummy ache...well the tummy ache didn't get any better....until midnight anyway. I'll spare the details but he wound up sleeping on a blanket bed on the floor for the remainder of the night. When he woke this morning he still wasn't his bouncy self, luckily the boys were out of school today and tommorrow for teacher work days (what's up with that? Why are they called teacher WORK days? Teachers work harder than anyone I know and have the most gruesome job in the world, they deserve OFF days too) anyways...no school was missed. I took a sick day to take care of him and this evening he is doing much better.

I am at a loss as to this new Avon adventure I have embarked upone...I am not into sales so what in the world am I doing???? I love Avon but finding someone who loves it just as much as I do in order to make a business of it???? Its off to a slow start because I am finding far more to purchase than I am customers. Where are they? How can I get customers to come to me? I know times are tight right now for most of the world but here in GF the economy is supposed to be going strong. I just need to connect the dots....find customer looking to buy Avon products...but how??? Advertising is pretty limited here. How do I reach out to those that will buy without bugging those that are not interested? I don't want to be a pest. I went to the mall last night and put coupon flyers on windshields. I'm still waiting for my first customer to call. I opened up a business checking account today and the lady at the bank was really nice...I'm sure I could have sold her something if I'd had any salemanship ability at all. I'm starting to wonder just what I'm getting into. Opening a business account is a commitment. That is kinda scary. That really makes this real. I must reach beyond my "circle" and find customers that will help pay the slight overhead of running a successful business.

Oh last but not least, the boys had dental checkups today...7 cavities between the two of them! Yikes! How did that happen? That is going to be costly. Cody needs braces. That is going to be costly too. I guess I need to get a grip and stop letting everything get to me. Today was a GREAT, GORGEOUS, SUNNY and NOT FREEZING COLD day. The kids are healthy, in spite of their mouths full of muck...they do brush consistantly but they inherited my soft enamel...our mouths are full of fillings....could be partly the sweet tooth too Jared has recovered from his bug and is now playing happily with his sister, tossing balloons around the playroom. Life is grand. We are so blessed. I should not worry about what I have no control over.

I planted the last of the tulip, daffodil, iris and some other bulb I am not sure what it was today...so when it comes up in the spring it will be a great surprise. I love surprises. As I wandered about my garden this afternoon I was amazed at the amount of flowers that are still flourishing there...daisys, marigolds, and lots of others that I am not sure what their names are. I may not know but God does, and that reminds me that even though I am not in control, maybe I can be an instrument that God will use to make the world a better place. Just a few short months ago those spots of dirt were just brown. Now they are filled with color and life. This is not something I had to do...its not something that someone told me to do...it is something I enjoy doing. It is like therapy for me to dig in the dirt...it is like therapy for me to shop. I am hoping that this newest hobby will flourish and grow too and blossom into something beautiful that brings as much joy to others as it does to me.

Can't buy me love...just buy me Unscripted

2008-10-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

Congratulation to Heather! She's the winner of the contest "Who's that man" The answer is Patrick Dempsey....new face of the new scent Unscripted due out this season from Avon. He helped put the scent together too so it is very much his own signature scent.

Introducing....Unscripted...."At the heart of Unscripted is the idea of living your life on your own terms, and not by a written script. It's about loving what you do, and doing it in your own unique way, rather than being defined by rules." Patrick Dempsey

Unscripted is a woody green fragrance that expresses the freedom of the open road with fresh, aromatic cardamom and invigorating cracked black peppercorn. At the heart, a sensual mix of fig and crisp lavender enrich the experience with a warm, sophisticated texture. The drydown reveals an unusual twist - a bold blend of exclusive leatherwood and patchouli heart wrapped in earthy vetiver and rich musk for an authentic, adventurous finish. follow your passion ~ UNSCRIPTED ~

Christmas in October

2008-10-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday when the UPS man drove up to my house I got that jittery feeling I used to get when I woke up on Christmas morning...Presents! Well, in this case it was my first AVON shipment arriving....close enough to Christmas for me. Jaiden and I had a grand old time opening up the boxes and sorting out the goodies. She of course dove right into the lip balms and started putting them into a tiny little purse that is just her size. My new crocs arrived (see photo below) they are soooo warm and snuggly (I am wearing them now with my jammas and I wore them right away when I got them to run to the store) LOVE EM!

We have lots of smellies and pretties to try out and sort. There were two customers this order so not too overwhelming. I felt like Santa filling the sacks. It was so much fun. There are so many new things coming out this next quarter to try....I must pace myself. I will do occasional product reviews too so stay tuned for the fun new things yet to come. Oh, I did try the wintermint lip balm today...its soo creamy and has a nice light mint tast to it. Very nice. Almost makes me look forward to winter....almost. Which will last for about a minute once the snow flies....which has not happened yet Praise God! This year we are getting an extended long fall, and I am LOVING it. There are still green leaves on some of the trees, although the rains this weekend and the wind is starting to make the leaves that were yellow last week start to fall...so the trees are starting to look a bit naked with a carpet of gold below them....the kind of leaves that make you want to scoop them up and toss them into the air...except that they are too wet to toss, and its a bit too nippy out to enjoy being outdoors. It actually got into the 30s yesterday. Brrrr...not ready for that for sure.

Let me know if you'd like me to send you any samples. I am pretty well stocked now and if I don't have it, I can get it. Just let me know. Have a beautiful day!

ooooh guess who's the new face of Avon...He helped create his new signature scent Unscripted

Hint: He plays the actor McDreamy on some big hospital drama show...any idea who this guy could be??? $5 coupon good for any sized Avon order goes to the first person to answer correctly.

Going out in a boat

2008-10-13T06:20:00.000-07:00

Today, being Columbus Day, so Daddy is home and the conversation I overhead this morning between Jaiden and hubs goes something like this;

Dad: "Jaiden, today we are goin out and about"

Jaiden's reply "Daddy, I don't want to go out in a boat!"

Gotta love that northern accent (hubs spent the weekend with his family and he often picks up stretching the o's when he's around them)

*We noticed something as we were sitting eating lunch at Arby's, Jaiden's shirt which she picked out herself "the puppy shirt" has the phrase "Let's go sailing"

GRAND OPENING

2008-10-12T13:13:00.000-07:00

Shop now and save an extra 10% on campaign 22-24 orders!!!

As an extra incentive to shop my online store I am offering a special discount of an extra 10% on all orders placed. This is in addition to the already great prices offered by Avon. This is a great chance to stock up on items you have been needing or would like to try. Satisfaction guaranteed, if you are not 100% satisfied with your order return it for a full refund. Free shipping on direct delivery. Shop today!

PS...I love seeing "You have received a new customer on YourAVON.com" That totally makes my day! :) Thank You for your support!

Have a Beautiful day!
Kim

Saturday Saturday I LOOOOVE Saturday!

2008-10-11T10:05:00.000-07:00

We were supposed to have gone to visit family in Albany this weekend but the kids and I stayed home because the wedding we were going to is adult only...so hubs will represent our clan solo.

So I am still hangin out in my jammas being lazy and catchin up with the blog. I need to go to the grocery store later to pick up catfood and carmel dip...to enjoy the home grown apples from our very own tree...we were blessed this year with a nice crop of apples that are very sweet but just a tad tart...thus the need for caramel dip :)

I will get back to posting photos soon, I apologize because I have been slacking. We went to Fargo last Friday (Cody's Birthday) and bought a new/used truck; 2001 Ford F150 which Cody has been driving to school this week. I miss the boys and taking them to school but I know I must give Cody some independence...its just so hard to see him growing up soooo fast! He is such a good kid/young man and I know he will go far...its just hard as a Mom to let him take those first steps into adulthood. It seems like just yesterday that he was a toddler....and today his is a man.

The cough that I've had since last Sunday is still lingering on...today its more a nuisant cough/headache. I get these nasty sinus infections in the fall and I truly hate being sick, life goes on whether I am 100% or not...I can't afford to not be able to keep up. Jaiden was such a sweetie, I let her stay home with me on Wednesday and she sat beside me while I rested and she watched cartoons and played with her dolls, reading them books and talking softly to them. She even covered me up with her favorite blankie...now that is LOVE, I am so blessed!

Ok, the headache is not going away so I need to get out from in front of the computer for a while. Have a wonderful day!

Where is this all going....?

2008-10-10T17:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I attended my first "Avon meeting" on Wednesday night. It was a small group which was really nice so I didn't feel overwhelmed and like I had to remember a whole bunch of new names...I know you all are probably wondering why I keep posting ads about Avon and what I am doing, thinking and trying to sell....well thats just it, I am not trying to "sell" anything...I think it is more about the making contact than with the "OMG I have a sale" factor...I am really trying to reach beyond my inner orbicle...this wall I have built around myself.

I admit I am a shopaholic, so Avon has always been a favorite of mine but this is my third time being a representative and this time I want goals...I think I did it before for basically the same reasons but this time I really want to grow.

The past few weeks I've been doing a lot of thinking about the future...I like to think ahead of the game and plan things out. This week I planted the tulip garden for my Mom, joined Avon, its been things that I don't see any results of at the moment but I'm hoping will be something that brings pleasure to others, making people smile is what makes me happiest.

Thats also got me thinking about the next phase of our lives here...what is to come...what is going to happen once Scott is retired...where will he find a job...how long will we live here? 2 years, 5 years...a hundred? Is this "our place" to be? So many questions...so few answers. I would still love to adopt a house full of kids, hubs is a bit leary of having more than we can afford but I feel totally opposite in the sense that without the kids there is nothing of value in our home...I would love to adopt a dozen or more....the wild and crazy life portrayed on reality shows where the families have dozens or more children...that is exciting to me. I know most think that is crazy but that is my dream....I have a good job and should be happy being a career woman in todays world but some days all I want to be is a Mom. Showered in kisses and hugs, surrounded by the pitter patter, thunk of growing feet. I know in todays world "things" are given a higher value rating than are human beings. We've lost the ability to stop for a moment to say hello to our neighbors or even get to know each other. Our lives seem wrapped up in getting to somewhere, but do we really know where it is we are going? What is it all about? What are our dreams and how do we make them real? Not real like reality tv real, but real as in please come in and sit down, lets have a chat and tell me what you are truly thinking. How are you doing today??? Where has that reality gone?

2008-10-10T08:31:00.000-07:00

By the light of the harvest moon...well not quite

2008-10-10T08:24:00.000-07:00

Last night I finally was able to get out and plant the tulip bed. The last of the holes were dug in the dark so not sure what it is going to look like in the spring...our neighbors now probably are thinking I am possessed with some crazy gardening bug...I was out with power tools, shovels, wheelbarrow, and all the kids were helping dig. I popped in the last of the bulbs by the light of the street lamps...and headlights of passing cars, with drivers staring at me in wonder....wondering I'm sure what the heck I'm up to.

The soil was very packed and soggy after a week of rain and there seemed to be more rocks than dirt in some places but I hope I got them deep enough for them to grow...now we wait.

There's lots of great sales in the newest Avon campaign, check it out!

Happy Birthday Scott!

2008-10-05T14:35:00.001-07:00

FREE lip balm with any order!

2008-10-04T05:10:00.000-07:00

As an incentive to place your first order this week (due by 12:00 PM CST on 10/08/08) I am offering a FREE lip balm for any sized order placed. Just log onto my store and don't forget to use the FREE shipping code SHIP3 to have items delivered right to your door.

Thank You for your order!!!

As I am sure you all know by now, Avon is a huge supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In addition to offering a variety of "pink ribbon products" such as this Breast Cancer Lip Balm with SPF 15 ($1.50, with all profits donated to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade), the company sponsors several walks to raise money for breast cancer research and prevention. If you are wondering what you can do to help, this lip balm is an affordable way to make a contribution.

*I just found out yesterday that Christina Applegate (aka Kelly Bundy on Married with Children) just underwent a double masectomy in July. She told her story on Oprah. She is only 36 - just a tad younger than me. My prayers are with her and all women that face this.

17 Years Ago....

2008-10-03T07:07:00.000-07:00

I became a MOMMY!!! :)

Today, is my firstborns 17th birthday! I can remember that day like it just happened...even though I can barely remember what I just ate for breakfast. I remember the hour long ride to the hospital in the ambulance and watching the sunrise and my Mom being right there by my side seemly taking every bit of the pain and anxiety onto her own shoulders to the point where I had to reassure her "Mom, I'm doing OK" even though the doctor wouldn't give me anything because Cody was coming fast. I arrived at the hospital around 7 (I remember it was at shift change because there were nurses everywhere) It went very fast but my Mom was there feeding me ice chips and I did my Lamaze breathing so well that it was my Mom that I had to tell to breathe. Cody was born at 10:12 am...with the umbilical cord wrapped 7 times around his neck! He was a very healthy 7lbs 11ozs...but I didn't have any "water break" as seen on tv...which I thought was weird and when I got to take a good look at him later when they'd cleaned him up, his skin was dry and flaky like a fish. He never cried and has always been such a good boy, loving and kindhearted. Never fussy and has always been very mature for his age.

Even as a small boy, he was my "protector" keeping watch over me. When we would cross the street, he was the one that would always check and triple check and then say "Ok, its safe to go now Mom" He'd get fightin mad if anyone made a rude comment to me or about me in public. He has a very sensitive nature and always makes me the sweetest cards and gifts. He has a heart of pure gold! He's always been my sweetie! So today, as I reflect back on the past 17 years, it is with wonder and amazement that God has blessed me with such an incredible child to call my son.

I LOVE these!

2008-10-02T12:45:00.000-07:00

As I was looking through the Avon ads online I found these...aren't they adorable! I wish they came in child sizes, I would order a matching pair for Jaiden. I LOVE clogs!!!

Avon has so many great products to choose from, and 100% of profits on pink ribbon products goes towards the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade....so what are you waiting for LET'S SHOP!