4/9/10....lap time!

What a beautiful morning! Sun is out, chill in the air, and a lot of green grass & blue skies! Pretty! Funny thing happened this morning. After I returned from taking the kids to school I came into the family room to sit in the recliner and before I got settled BOTH dogs, Ike the basset and PJ the mini-schnauzer jumped on my each hoping to claim a space on my lap. So funny and such a surprise! Each morning as I watch the today show one or the other takes their place on my lap. I've noticed throughout the week it's become a competition to see who can get there first so much so Ike has decided to start throwing his weight around to get his way! Too funny.

I love these crazy dogs! What a joy they bring to me!

Power of a wave....the hello kind! :)

Good Friday 2010....
Location: Marion, Indiana....

It all started at a 3 way stop on the south side of town. The kids and I were behind a car who spent a bit longer at the stop than necessary. They were waving anxiously to get he attention of a gentleman setting on his front porch. As we approached our turn at the stop I said to the kids, "let's get in on the fun!" So, we joined in an sat at the stop sign and began waving at the gentleman. His reaction was priceless! With a look of surprise & confusion it wasn't but a second later that he returned our gesture with a wave of his own and the SMILE of all smiles on his face! As we drove a way a believe I witnessed a bit of a belly laugh. The kids and I laughed and giggled ourselves. I commented that perhaps we made is Good Friday even better and we discussed the power of a smile and a wave, two very simple gestures. We continued on our journey through downtown Marion and then out to the bypass waving at as many people as we could, watching their reactions and enjoying their smiles. I have a feeling some were left wondering who exactly we were! lol What a fun way to enjoy time in the car together and to brighten up someones day with a simple gesture of a smile and a wave.

So fun! So simple! So give a wave, smile & hello...you never know who's day you'll brighten...besides your own!

a few new favorites

A new twist on green beans. I fixed this for Easter and It was a hit.


Prep Time:
5 Min
Cook Time:
15 Min
Ready In:
20 Min

Servings (Help)
US Metric Calculate


Original Recipe Yield 6 servings

Ingredients

* 1 1/2 pounds green beans, trimmed and cut into 2 inch pieces
* 1 1/2 cups water
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
* 1/4 teaspoon pepper
* 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
* 2 cups cherry tomato halves

Directions

1. Place beans and water in a large saucepan. Cover, and bring to a boil. Set heat to low, and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain off water, and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in sugar, garlic salt, pepper and basil. Add tomatoes, and cook stirring gently just until soft. Pour the tomato mixture over the green beans, and toss gently to blend.

Nutritional Information open nutritional information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 122 | Total Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 20mg

So So good! You won't regret having mad this dish!


And for a break from potatoes try this Cheesy Cauliflower:


Prep Time:
30 Min
Cook Time:
30 Min
Ready In:
1 Hr

Servings (Help)
US Metric Calculate


Original Recipe Yield 5 servings

Ingredients

* 1 head cauliflower
* 1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces
* 1 teaspoon mayonnaise
* 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Steam whole head of cauliflower for 30 minutes. Drain and place on a pie plate.
2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
3. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and mustard; spread the mixture over cauliflower and dot with pats of butter. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) uncovered, for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is brown.

Nutritional Information open nutritional information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 163 | Total Fat: 13.1g | Cholesterol: 34mg

Awesome! and a nice replacement for the traditional white dish.

**I used my pampered chef microwave cooker and steamed my cauliflower. I put aprox. 1/4 of an inch of water in the bottom of the cooker, covered with plastic wrap and cooked for 6 min. I did 1/2 of a head at a time.


Let me know if you cook & like! ...I think you will!

Good Morning...4/8

Blah...that's the best way to describe today. Damp, cold, drizzle...and aprox. 40 degrees cooler than yesterday. Hello Indiana!

Big news today is Tiger Woods and his return to golf...teeing of this afternoon at the Masters. Also under scrutiny is a Nike ad that features him. I don't condone indiscretion, deception, cheating...however, with that said this man is famous, initially for golf. Not for being a family man/husband. I feel the events that have been exposed are unfortunate but are none of our business. The media is having a hay day and frankly is sickening. It's almost a form of rape from the media on his life. So over it all and ready for the man to engage in his profession and move on & hopefully he and his can take the necessary steps to heal and be happy with their lives.

Laundry for me today. Then, a trip to Sweetser to meet with my Kids Hope kid, there's a book fair so hopefully we'll find something interesting for her.

Funny thing...I failed miserably yesterday at trying to boil water! lol too funny. I enjoyed the rain so much it lulled me into a state of semi-consciousness and I thought I smelled something burning...went to pick up the kids and upon retuning home was sure something was burning...only to find the empty pot on the stove top! OH MY! I'm such a dork!

Kathryn's big day is today. Try outs for Freshman cheer. It's gonna be interesting the results. It's kind of an odd scenario this year. I've had so many girls send me messages over the course of the week expressing how much they missed me as coach and urging me to apply for the varsity job. I totally would've too, having not been fired in the fall. So sad that the situation is what it is. The girls had a miserable year when it should've been their favorite! Unfortunate for the program. Hopefully it'll recover. Coach D seems to have earned their respect and kept it.

Matt was a booger last night. Left with out permission, played basketball in the down pour, and didn't do his homework. His excuse..."I didn't know I couldn't" REALLY the rules are the same from day to day! UGH that boy!

Work was slow last night. Actually got out early. Not sure how that happened exactly but it was nice to get home. I enjoy my job, I just wish I didn't hurt so badly at the end of the evening.

toodles

"he was cute until he opened his mouth"

The blog title is a quote from my daughter. And how true it is of so many. lol

Well, there's been a lot going on. I mentioned in an earlier blog that we're in the final stage of the school year! woo hoo! The last 9 weeks went out with a bang. It was the worst grading period for my kids for a number of reasons. Matthew managed to get himself banned from the computer lab for a 2 week period. They were given free time and while playing on kid pics realized that it would verbalize what you typed...needless to say he decide to test the system! (ugh) He's such a boy. Well, with out repeating what he typed he managed to freeze the computer & shut down his system until the teacher reviewed it with him. He had to call Andy or I & tell us what happened and what he typed. I was at a funeral so he got Andy...when Andy called me to tell me about the situation he was cracking up! You know how one child tends to be more like one parent than the other...well, Matt looks like the Van Ness' but acts like me! God help us... :) Kathryn found her voice. For the 4 years I worked in the school the 8th grade science teacher frustrated (to say the very least) many students, if not most. Few ever stood up for themselves against him. She finally did! Afterwards she was concerned about the repercussions her actions might've had but I told her not to worry...whatever happened happened and this too shall pass. I was just glad she felt strong enough to stand up for herself.

We were able to celebrate Easter at Aunt Peggy's this year. She's def. my kids favorite. Brian & family, Valarie & Family, Susan & Dan, Peg, Ed & EJ and Us were all there. Wish Amy & her family could've been with us in addition to Mark & Sam & Family. The kids really enjoyed each other! It would be nice if they could get together more often. Emma, Kathryn, Sam, Matthew, Rhiley, Carly, Mia are the kids in order of age. There's a year +/- between all except Mia who's the youngest. They really had fun. The egg hunt was a success & as always the food was excellent: chicken & noodles, mashed pot., fruit salad, green beans, cheesy cauliflower, relish tray, shrimp, cheese cake, & cake. (yum) I took the green beans & cauliflower. They were both new recipes and very good. We ended our Easter holiday at my moms. We had planned on joining her for an evening meal but were were all too full.

This week is a big one for Kathryn. She'll be trying out for Freshman cheerleader on Thursday. I sure hope she makes the squad. She really enjoys it and is quite good at it.

The new & last 9 weeks seems to be off to a good start! (thank you God) Here's to hoping it finishes up on the same note.

Monday: I cleaned entry, p/u kids & took kate back to cheer. It was a good day.
Tuesday: Not a good day. Did not sleep well at all...napped in the morning but just didn't feel well. Didn't go to KH appointment. Worked, had salad & wings for supper
Wednesday: so far so good...working tonight. it's a gloomy day looks like a storm could be brewing... I love storms.

OH, I for got the birthday update...Kate turned 14 on the 29th of march. We got her the purity ring she asked for (tanzanite w/ 6 diamonds) very pretty. So proud of her and the choices she's making for her self. Matthew turned 12 on the 14th of march. He got Xbox live subscriptions and all the techy stuff needed to make it all work....then he got grounded for the anticts listed above...(this too has passed).

whew...i do believe i'm caught up. Now that feels better.

Journeys....

Do you ever give much though to just how fun life is? Do you really take the time to enjoy the journey? What aspects of your day stand out? What do you remember about your day as it draws to a close? Is it the good or the bad stuff? I would venture to guess the most of us go to bed feeling the frustrations of the day. We're stressed, tense, tired. I've been taking a journey back in time through the journals of my Grandmother-in-law, Emma Ruth Anderson.

We have came across her journals dating back to Jan. 1 1975. I've deduced from reading that she probably wrote in her journal at the end of each day. She provides a recap of wake up time, temperature, weather conditions, visitors, food, and daily activities such as bible studies & shopping both she did a lot of! Out of 365 journal entries in 1975 only 1 recapped a possible disagreement between her & her brother. Even times that would frustrate most of us such as getting pulled over by the police she keeps a sense of humor and takes the warnings/tickets in stride. (i've read of a couple almost back to back in 1976...it happens)

I've tried to journal and obviously I blog. I use both as a method to recap, remember, vent, or just record. For me it's refreshing. There are times I feel like so much is going on inside my head I just need to get out. And I've come to learn over time that not everyone wants to hear what you have to say. However that doesn't mean I don't feel the need to say it. This allows me to get it out if you will.

I doubt that my children will ever be interested in reading my thoughts or recapping daily adventures but should they decide to ....here they are. (i'm saving trees)

If you don't blog or journal I really recommend it.

Have a good one...

Encourage & Educate all ready!

Thursday April 1....APRIL FOOLS DAY! A fun & beautiful day. Today is suppose to reach a record high in Indiana! 82 degrees...ahhhhh. How sweet it is!

We're in the final stages of the school year hip hip hooray! I've been thinking about all of my frustrations ....for 4 years as a full time employee at the jr. high I really had to filter myself....(HA!) and believe me, all though still out spoken I did filter! So much so I had to be put on blood pressure med. Well I'm no longer an employee of the system, I'm a mom whose kids are in the system. Given they are students there they are subject to many of the issues I struggled with as an employee. FINALLY, Kate found a voice and stood up for herself.

I find it interesting that respect needs to be taught. I've always thought that the best way to teach something was by example. It's sad that the example isn't being set. Is there an unwritten or written perhaps, rule that states children are not deserving of respect but should dish it out? Not in any of the books I read. My favorite book tells us that "the children shall lead them". (BIBLE)

Generation-ally speaking society has cast aside respect for rudeness, curtness, selfishness, judgment. What happened to killing them with kindness. Treating others the way you want to be treated. These are characteristics that cross generation lines. You can be nice to both young & old. Should you choose to not be nice then don't be shocked when you're not treated kindly.

In my opinion so many teachers have disconnected themselves from the caring aspect of child development. Having worked at the middle school level I had concerns about the adult examples that my child was exposed to, her instructors, mentors if you will. How sad. Myself as well as the students because they too were present at times witnessed whispering about other students, degrading of a students in front of the entire class, disrespectful tones being used from teacher to student, and repeated unwillingness on the part of the instructor to assist when questions came up, or provide further explanation when needed by the student. UGH!

Now...not all teachers are guilty. Not all fit the above description but it only takes one to make an impression. You call a child a cheater ...written at top of paper enough times and he'll soon believe you. Where does that rank in the realm of esteem boosting, empowering, encouraging,...educating? You call a child a "liar" enough times perhaps they'll become one. You refuse to assist them in learning enough times and eventually they'll stop doing any thing in your classroom. Why should they...when you're not holding up your end of the deal as an educator? It's not rocket science people. It's not baby sitting. You chose the profession...if you're burnt out get out. Do the kids a favor. Reevaluate why you do what you do, go be happy & rediscover your passion because if you remain you're killing the passion of many who pass through your door. These kids are impressionable and behaviors being exhibited by many educators are NOT impressive.

Adults....kids are people too. They're learning from us. If we respect them they'll respect us. If we encourage them, believe in them, they'll step up to the plate time & time again even if they strike out! But if we tell them how poorly they did while taking a swing the odds of them taking another swing are not good. We need to help them to develop their swing. It's when they are children that they will swing & miss, they'll have strike outs, but they'll also have a few base hits & RBIs and if taught well, encourage to practice & reach for the stars they just might hit it out of the ball park!

That's all for today...just had to blog :)

Take Time...it does fly by!

I can't thank my hubby enough for taking us away this spring break. Although our trip was a short one it was very much enjoyed. And I do believe by everyone. I really begged to take this trip. It's so easy to think that we have all the time in the world to do what we want to do. We put of doing the fun stuff for a time more suitable or a time when it will all be more affordable. My question is when is that time? And where is the guarentee that it will come. Now I'm not saying go into debt just to get away or have fun. But make a plan to do something together that is out of the ordinary. The big picture is this: In 4 years, God willing, we will be preparing for a high school graduation for Kathryn and Matthew will be a sophmore. They will both be entering the stage of life that we've been preparing them for for years. They will venture into this world with all the good and bad it has to offer and will make their way. The nightly snuggles are coming to an end. The desire to still hang out with the rents is going to wane soon. Seize the day, moment whatever time you get and charish it!

Today as a matter of fact is Kathryns birthday, 14! I can't believe it. She is so excited to be growin up! I was so impressed when she requested a "promise" ring from us. She's quite a young lady. Thank you God for her and for blessing us with her. Thank You for our church family and youth leaders that encourage her, her relationship with You and that lift her up. Thank you God for Kathryn!

It's a Charlie Brown existance....

When I write in pen, I get ink all over me. When I eat I dribble down the front of me. If the ground is flat & free of clutter I'm sure to trip. The week I travel south with the family....It's warmer at home. Such is life.

It's laughable if you think about it. I certainly believe it's got to be the trip and not the destination because it's the trip that is packed with all the good stuff. The meat & taters if you will. Car rides, how much longer, mom he/she's touching me, Huh?, what? The sights, sounds and smells of a new location. It all makes the journey worth while. Especially when you know there will be a time when they'll come to an end.

Last Friday we left Indiana headed for Gulf Shores Alabama. Neither Andy or I had ever been to this location. We'd heard many good things about the area and the beaches that we decided (or rather I strongly suggested)to check it out. Our stay is a short one as I need to get back to work, but we definately decided that we'll be retuning! It's absolutely beautiful here! Some of the nices beaches I've been too. Even with the record cold temps they've been experiencing. Which by the way will be ending the day we leave for home. (charlie brown)

I'm thankful we've had the time together as a family. Next Monday, the 29th Kate will turn 14! And it reminds me that sooner than later she'll not want to hang with the rents...rather go off with friends. I'll charish and take all the family time I can get. Which also has me thinking about the kind of in-law/grand parent I hope to be someday. I hope to be near my kids and their families, enjoy their spouses and have a lot of fun, laughter, and traditions of our own. I hope they choose to continue to spend time with us. I hope we can still vacation together. I hope. I hope. I hope.

With that said...or rather bogged, I'll continue to lead my Charlie Brown existance & enjoy every min. of it. Most of which will be spent in laughter with me shaking my head because there are many things I just can't explain that happen to me.

what's new ...sun! & mud!

What's new...THE FURNACE! woo hoo. Now that we're warming up it is all new and ready for winter 2010.

Well, Swayzee Indiana has had sunny skies for 5 days now. Today, 3/8 could hit the 60 mark. This is exciting as it will help to dry up the mud. Mud is my least favorite thing about spring. ICK!

Ed and Emma Jean went to NY this weekend to see their news granddaughter Maisie. I'm so glad they get to do that. We had a very successful lazy weekend. Not what we needed but evidently what our bodies needed. Oh well...all good things come to those who wait RIGHT?

This next week shall be a busy one. Kate has 2 swim meets, I'll be working tue-fri. and Sunday is my favorite sons birthday! I can't believe he turns 12. He's so much fun & joy I was truly blessed with him. He's has completed our family perfectly.

I'm so excited to be going south for spring break and even more excited that it is a destination that is new to both Andy & I. It will be an adventure! I can't wait.

Praying for my nephew, my brother & his wife too. The next 3 months will not be easy.

Updates...

Well it's been a short while since I've posted anything so I'll try to catch up. Matt's basketball season is over. He's decided that this is his favorite sport. He was a B team player. There were times that it was ok with him but he has decided that more effort on his part is needed to hopefully make the A team in the 7th grade. He's in a very talented class and I hope for his sake hard work will be rewarded. He has also decided to not play baseball this year. He's going to golf with the Jr. High instead. This should be interesting...and expensive. School is a frustration for the both of us. You'd think enjoying 3/5 would make for a decent day.... Unfortunately it's not the case. Even more unfortunately the majority of the frustration is at the end of the day - so guess who gets to enjoy the frustrated kid! UGH! Unfortunately I feel as if I've given up. I know he's smart. I know he understands the concepts. I know he knows how to do the math. I know what's coming for him in the 7th & 8th grades and I know he'll do well. Jr. High is a different world, and I know for fact not quite the world that it is made out to be by the 6th grade team. Funny, for the 4 years at the jr. high I'd hear the teachers their "complain" / "question" if you will ...just how/what/why the 6th grade team taught/prepared the way they did. Funnier yet...in the 8-9 years subbing at the HS the teachers there would ask the same question. So much for being on the same page.
If ever there was an argument for everyone being in the same building this would be at the top of the list.

Kate has completed cheering for the year. Now she's in the middle of swim season. She's swimming in 2 relays and a 100 (i think). She's done rather well considering she's not really swam since 5th grade. She's doing OK grade wise but can stand to improve. Recently a teacher told me she was one of the smartest kid he's had...she just doesn't put it to good use. I would have to agree. Little to zero effort and still pulls decent grades. She's not feeling challenged, she's bored - something I've heard for years, and for years have been told she'll just have to figure out how to deal with it. Well...her method of coping as well of several others in the same boat (AP kids)...holding convo's in class (choose method yet to be detected by teachers) and tuning out until the teaching begins. Frustrated? YES! aggravated? YES! solution? NOT a Clue. This has been a constant behavior that has been reinforced by the schools for 7 hours a day 180 days a year...HOWEVER... when she's at home it's a different story. A prime example of what the parents can do. Kate's a totally different kid than Matt. She too has an above average grasp of the info, she too will succeed. Both of my children good or bad are not easily fooled by people, of any age and are certainly not fooled by persons in "positions of power" if you will. As I do they realize pants no matter who they belong to go on 1 let at a time.

Andy seems to enjoy his job still. His territory requires him to be gone more and he's home later than we're used to. It's been an adjustment for us all. But we are so THANKFUL that he has it. I'm so blessed to have him as a husband and father of my children. I did good. :)

This week has been a wild one! Furnace went out, Fridge went out, Water heater is poop'in out! What a tri-fecta! Oh well, what can you do but call in the troops. We preplanned moms funeral this week. This has brought about a whirlwind of emotions for her. I'm sure it's hard to come to terms with things changing. She's shed so many tears stressing over how she'd make ends meet, you'd think the solutions put forth would be a relief to her. You'd think. She's managed to maintain everything as a single woman far longer than she did married...call it a moral victory & call it a day!

A vacation on the horizon! Andy booked the hotel for our brief get-a-way over spring break. Gulf Shores here we come! I've never been there so I'm excited. It's tough as a grown up deciding where to go on vacation. I want to take the kids to places I've been but also want to explore new places. This is the 1st one that will be new to us all. I'm so excited. Not to mention that this will be the first trip NOT in a minivan! Oh the togetherness. lol. Let's hope it' not the last.

I'm continuing to pray for my brothers family. Julia was recently engaged. That's exciting for her. Jerrod is not doing so well (according to mom). Not sure what the lesson for him is suppose to be but it's been a tough one. Good news they've all gone to church recently. I hope this becomes something they enjoy and feel a part of. So much of their time was given to MG and sports, etc...I hope for them a renewed relationship with God and happier times. I do love my brother & his family.

I just realized I never really talk about be in these posts...perhaps someday I will be brave enough to express what all goes on inside my head...or perhaps it'll all just stay in there & I'll work it all out as I go along. I just know inspite of it all, I am blessed. Thank you God.

weekend events & stuff...

Yesterday we celebrated family and february birthdays. This had been a long time tradition in my husbands family, the Anderson side as it was granny Andersons birthday month. Now we're down to two, Julie Adams, Brians wife and our newest addition Masie Van Ness born a week ago. Keeping with tradition we dined at Hollyhock Hill in Indianapolis. The food was wonderful. We enjoyed the traditional pan fried chicken, mashed potatos & chicken gravy, green beans, corn, biscuits, beats, & their wonderful house salad. yum yum. In attendance were the McNerney's: David, Valarie, Carly, Riley & Mia; the Adams': Brian, Julie, Emma & Sam; Julies Mom, Susan Adams, Peggy Adams - our hostess; Ed & Emma Jean Van Ness and us: Andy, Kelly, Kathryn & Matthew. It was an enjoyable time with good food & family! I hope we continue to gather & remember & catch up with one another despite the distance & business of our lives.

I've been feeling ill since last Thursday. I do believe I'm suffereing from a sinus infection again and possibly my bronchitis is reoccuring. I'll find out today at 1:30.

Kate has a swim meet today. It will be the 1st one that I get to see. I'm kinda excited to see how she does & cheer her on!

Our Lady Eagles lost in the Regional semi-final Saturday. Disapopinting, yes but it's impossible to not be 100% proud of this group of girls.

I sent Matthew off to school today with 72 pencils. Hopefully this will keep him out of the principals office. At least for NOT having a pencil.

One final note...I hope we get to go somewhere for spring break.

That's all for now.

Laugh it feels good

Oh the power of laughter. :P I can't think of a better sound, feeling, or action. I do love a good laugh. Big thanks to ELLEN DEGENERES for getting me started with a daily does of laughter.

Well the furnace was out last night when I came home...& this morning when I woke up brrrrr it was chilly. Thanks to Dave Howard for getting here first thing & working on it...although it's still down, I'm hopeful we'll be warm shortly. Andy's gone tonight :( (bummer) but at least we don't have 1001 activities and the ones we do have are local so kids can transport themselves.

We've got a new addition to our family Percy Jackson aka PJ. He's a mini schnauzer and so fun. He and Ike our basset have become the best of friends...at least when Ike wants to be. It's kinda funny to watch the dynamics among the dogs...PJ the littlest and newest def. rules the roost. He's so confident. I love that silly pup.

Well...I'm out for today. I'll return again shortly. tata

Accentuate the Positive

Accentuate the Positive...I think I'll adopt this philosophy, as best as I can, for 2010. What is it about human nature that we focus, talk about, dwell on the negative? I'm as guilty as the next person that's for sure. Sadly it's so easy to criticize, to point out the flaws. I've decided if I've something negative to say it must be accompanied by at least 2 positives...and NO math principles do not apply here...2 negatives DO NOT make a positive! (lol) With that said I'd like to challenge all of you to do the same. Become more conscious of your words, spoken opinion (i speak of mine often) and perhaps, just maybe your outlook as well as mine will become a bit more sunny.

It's been a WOW couple of weeks...very busy in every aspect. Highs: a Saints superbowl victory, the birth of Sam & Michelles baby Maisie, a lot of snow!, rescuing a dog, Lady Eagles 4th consecutive sectional victory. Lows: the passing of Rick Van Ness, Kate & bronchitis (again), my melt down towards the kids, colts loss in the superbowl. In addition swim season has started which means a 5:30 am departure to get Kate to practice...(i don't do mornings) and ZERO motivation from my kids regarding their school work. UGH.

Matt is an enigma to me. I would love to be able to be a fly on the wall in his class room to see how he conducts himself. He has so much potential...puts forth ZERO effort and squeaks by...with decent grades but I have to wonder what a little effort would result in. Unfortunately the frame of mind for many of our youth today is that it's not "COOL" to be too smart. And...he does have a tendency to speak his mind. I kid and say "he's just like me" ...unfortunately I didn't become so brazen until I was in my 20's. ...proving the old saying true...you get kids whose behavior is 10x's what yours was! WARNING WARNING WARNING! LOL Keeping the faith! I know he's got an awesome heart, knows the Lord & loves Him & has an awesome foundation & many who love & pray for him and will continue to do so.

I've got to be honest...I am freaking out! my baby girl is gearing up to enter High School! In 6 short months she'll walk through the doors at OHS as a high schooler. eeek. Not to mention in 4 short years she'll be preparing to graduate! Have I mentioned how times flies ...especially when you're having fun! I'll continue to pray that I'll handle all the "growing up" with grace, patience, & a sense of humor. And I'll continue to thank God that she's more like her daddy!

Raising kids is FUN...Fantastic, Unlike any thing else you'll ever do, Numinous. I've been blessed to have been given Kathryn & Matthew...just another reason for me to give thanks today.

Have I mentioned how much I love Facebook? What a fun place to visit. I've really enjoyed reconnecting with old friends. Whether or not I get the opportunity to "talk" to everyone (& I don't) I do enjoy following their adventures, praying with them through life's trials, and celebrating their successes. Most recently a former student,Jade has experienced first hand the miracles of God - how awesome is that! I am so excited for her & her growing family as she'll soon be returning home from Uganda with their new addition, Samuel. God is good. I've also enjoyed reconnecting with old childhood friends...Garland. I had such a fun childhood and it's so fun to be reminded of the good old times with someone who shared in the fun. I've reconnected with neighborhood kids, elementary friends, slumber party girls, and countless others whom I've been blessed to cross paths with in some manner. How fun!

Well...that's about it for today. Kate has her 1st swim meet tonight...I'll be working, but will be cheering her on from the "chuck". I have faith that she won't sink. ;P

Let me know if you stopped by...Thanks for listening & be positive! I'm sure it'll make for a good change in your outlook.

frustrations - lifes "storm warnings" perhaps...

OH how I do get frustrated. Time frames aren't followed, promises aren't kept, request aren't honored...UGH! People (myself included) are so frustrating.

In our youth group we've just concluded a series on Storms...like the storms in life an how we handle them. And like most things in life...it got me thinking. I'm thinking about life's frustrations and how they seem to mount and how we respond to them. If we let our frustrations add up they can produce a full out storm. And sometimes even though we deal with our frustrations as they come on there are times when they seem to bombard us one after the other. We feel attacked. Repeatedly!

I don't think I handle frustrations well. As in life I seem to do better dealing with storms. I don't like drizzle, but love a sever down pour. Lite flurries tease while a full on blizzard is what I enjoy. Not that I want the storms that come with life, but I feel better prepared to handle them as opposed to the drizzle that pops up now and again.

It's a prime example of depending, leaning, talking to, confessing to God in the bad times, all the while knowing He doesn't give us more than we can handle. God get's the big stuff. How easily we (me) forget that He also get's the drizzle. I'm guilty of letting Him be in charge of the Biggies and getting me through, giving Him the glory for all the good stuff, but somehow I seem to lose sight of Him when the frustrations occur. I really need to work on that!

I'm also reminded how blessed I am. If I didn't own a home then my home wouldn't frustrate me. If my husband didn't have his job we wouldn't even be able to consider vacation options, remodeling projects etc... I am blessed beyond measure and I am as imperfect of a human being as you can get. INSERT SERENITY PRAYER HERE!



With that said, here's a quick recap of recent events...Andy returned last Friday night from Dallas, we were all glad to see him. Matt had to wait a day as he spent the night with his grandpa & grandma Van Ness. (thank you Lord for them) I had to work on Saturday, which is not something I usually do. Sunday was youth Sunday @ Mt. Olive UMC - which means the youth ushered, greeted, led worship & gave testimony & sermon. They did an awesome job. Kids never cease to amaze me. People, if you don't have any friends or acquaintances that are teens/young adults you are missing out. Monday Kate cheered at what was possibly her last 8th grade game. We were all there & I took really crappy pictures. lol If only the camera caught what was in my minds eye! I'm horrible. Today is Tuesday February 2 - groundhogs day & Phil saw his shadow. It was also Andy Andersons birthday. (andy's grandpa) Latest report on Sam & Michele & baby...well, they're still waiting. So are we. :) Andy is spending the next 2 nights in Merriville for work. And Matt was home from school ill today, headache, stomach ache, sore throat all carried over from yesterday after school. Finally at 2pm he seems to be doing better. Still requesting prayers for my brother & his family...talk about frustrations! And prayer for me too if you will that I can do a better job at keeping things in perspective and being a lot less frustrated by 'this world'! I just need to keep STANDING ON THE PROMISES OF GOD!

...until next time. Thanks for reading & feel free to leave a comment. I do enjoy those. ;)

curve balls...aka: LIFE

You just don't know the plan... I feel if God has said this once, HE'S SAID IT A THOUSAND TIMES! I'm sure you've all heard it said that everything can change with the blink of an eye, well how true this statement is. And not ALL change is good. You can go through this life virtually unscathed but if you do are you prepared for that moment when you blink and life as you know it is no more? How do you handle such events? I guess my bigger question is how do you handle such events with out God? Do you find comfort, at all in my saying "you're in my prayers".

My family members are enduring a change...everyday life as they know it has been turned upside down in one instant. I pray for them. Of course I want it to all go away, for things to go back to normal if you will. But that's not God's plan. (i don't think) I can't think of a better time to FROG it if you will. (Fully Rely On God) He knows why! He's in charge & has the blue print. I pray that they will turn to him and KNOW He is in control. That eye's will be opened to the lessons that needed to be learned...for all who are touched by the circumstance.

I wonder if this is an example of our PARENT yelling at us...in our face style...that we need to trust Him, rely on Him, build a relationship with Him. Is this His attention getter? Does God do that?

All the while, today I am prayerful for my family...that God's will be done as a result of the changes that have occurred. Please pray with me.


On a lighter note, that boy of mine! Matthew...what a pistol! He is SO different from Kate and not in the obvious ways. ;P I see so much of me in his attitude, the old me...and it scares me. He's funny, fun, real yet loves to get lost in fantasy and boy oh boy is he opinionated. His mouth is such a weapon. Yet with all the angst that he exhibits, I know he's got a heart of gold. He'll be such a fine man...I just need prayers for the both of us that we get through all the "growing up". lol I hope he finds a passion, something that brings him joy that he has a fire in his belly for. He's so smart - but doesn't think so OR thinks it cooler to not be; he has athletic ability - but no desire because he feels others are better/favorites so "why bother"; he loves the Lord - but doesn't want to go to Sunday school or youth...at least not with his age group; he has so much potential and so little drive. (ugh) Was near tears at the loss of their game last night. Perhaps Thursday's game will have a happier outcome.

Kate wraps up what's been a long year of cheerleading this week. She's nervous about next year and tryouts. She shouldn't have any trouble as she's def. got the talent but knowing that evaluations are biased or have been in the past she's concerned about being given a fair opportunity. (ie: i was fired from cheer coaching at OHS...long story but I wouldn't change how i conducted myself at all!)

Andy is in Dallas this week for training. I miss him when he's gone. He was thrown a curve ball as he waited for his departure. The plane experienced mechanical trouble and all 200 passengers had to be rebooked on other flights. I'm sure he was the poster child for how to handle the situation. Oh to be more like Andy...

Curve balls can result in different outcomes: a base hit, rbi, sacrifice, strike 1 2 or 3, free base because you were hit with the ball, an out and/or if we're lucky a HOMERUN. Like in baseball in life we can't always hit homeruns, But if we allow God to be in control, trust in Him, give our life to Him, you can be sure that you will get through and in the end will have a Home to run to.

today...1/19-10

What a weekend! over 7200 young people descended on Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg TN over the weekend to celebrate their relationship with Jesus Christ! If that isn't encouraging then I don't know what is. It was such a blessing to experience...thank you pastor Steve for taking our kids!

Today has been a mixed bag for me. Unfortunately I've been suffering with a headache since Friday and haven't been able to get much relief until about 8 o'clock this evening. (ugh) Praise God for it easing up! I took today off work to attend freshman orientation with my daughter. Unfortunately the orientation was canceled. I can't believe she'll be in high school in 7 short months! eek! She's so excited. I am too I suppose but for me all I seem to see is how quickly the next 4 years are going to pass. I can't imagine this house without her in it. But how exciting it is to see what a beautiful young lady she's growing into. I love our relationship and hope it only continues to grow! She's everything I wish I would've been. Thank you God for her!

As I am typing this I look over to see my son...what a fine young man he's growing into. I love that he still wants to cuddle, sit on my lap, give me hugs & kisses. I love that he tells me he doesn't want to grow up because he doesn't ever NOT want to do those things. He's my "lost boy" if you will...I don't think he'll ever truly accept the growing up process.

I remember one time listening to a therapist on a morning show talk about the keys to making a successful marriage/family and she talked about how when 2 become 1 they need to realize that at night...there are 6 in the bed. WHAT??? you might ask! Well, the explanation is this: you take with you into a marriage/family the good/bad from each of your parents, therefore you've got the potential for 6 different personalities forming a union. Knowing that no family is perfect I strive to take the good from mine and leave what I viewed as unsuccessful as growing up at the curb. So far so good! I have been blessed beyond measure and far more than I am deserving of. I am thankful for my family and for Andy's for giving us examples...good, bad or otherwise to build upon.

My little emily, (kids hope) was to have her tonsils out today. I hope she got a long ok. Tomorrow I plan on talking to her mom to see how she's coming along. She's suffered with sore throats all year. Hopefully she'll finish this school year out on a healthy note.

Well...saying prayers for: my brother & his family, my mom, my cousin Joe and his kids, my friends Linsie & Abby & their dad Reece, emily, haiti. giving thanks for: my husband & kids, my home, church & good friends...I am truly blessed.

1/15/10

Today will surely be a full day. My heart is heavy and prayers are with the Peacock family as they lay to rest Beth Peacock. She is mom to two wonderful girls whom I've been lucky to get to know, have in my life and call "friends". Both are very strong, beautiful faithful women who are too young to lay to rest their mom. Not to mention their father who has not only lost his wife but earlier in the month buried his father. My prayers are with them all, may they weather this storm finding comfort in God. He does have a plan.

Tomorrow we will leave for Tennessee for the weekend. No school on Monday! Kate & I will be attending the STIR conference - a youth leadership conference. Our youth group is going and the leaders however we will be driving down separately because Kate will be cheering for the jr. high grant 4 games Saturday morning. Hopefully Andy & Matt can enjoy their time and find something fun to do. Glad Matt is feeling better! Last night was not a good one. Although on the bright side he scored the 1st points for his BB team...however they lost.

Killer headache today had me down for about 3 hours! It's mildly lingering (ugh) hope it just goes away...perhaps with more excederine.

Today was foggy & dreary. Warm enough that the snow is melting :( Now were being left with all the gunk I dislike...MUD!

Well, my head hurts so I'm gonna call it a day. Until tomorrow from Tennessee...

this is probably a jumbled mess of randomness :)

well for starters it's day 3 of the daily blogging. but i've got so many random thoughts & things to share i feel the need to apologize in advance should i lose you along the way. so hang on! as i empty my head ...

REPLACEMENTS... now i've been thinking, most things in life have replacement parts, are replaceable and/or come with a warranty. (notice i said things) but what about people? divorce has allowed us to replace one spouse with another. when a pet passes we sometimes get a new, replacement pet, if you will. technology has allowed some of our parts to be surgically replaced...and i'm talking major parts! if you think about it, as sad as it may be sometimes our friends and relationships are also replaced.

now, you know i'm a Christian and love my God! He is in total control! but i am human and often find myself wondering what He's up to! what His plan is. why He has chosen to put certain people in place in my life. i think they're the "replacements". sometimes it's easy to figure out who's been replaced. at other times it takes awhile to see & figure out who this person is going "in" for. (sports analogy)

with this in mind i also find my self wondering who i am replacing in someones life? with that i am reminded to try & be the best me that i can. God does have a plan and someday i hope to get to talk to Him about it.

BLESSINGS...silly facebook! oh how i love you. (sad but true) i love how i get to reconnect with so many people who have been a part of my life. from childhood friends, neighbors, family, college friends, former colleagues, and even the random people that have "teamed" up for silly on-line gaming. i enjoy seeing, reading and staying up on everyone. i love that kids i had in class have befriended me and share their gown up years with me. i love that i've been able to reconnect with cousins that i hadn't seen or had a relationship with in years. what an awesome opportunity to share, talk, visit, pray for/with so many people. silly to think a computer social site could be a blessing...but i do think that for many it is.

TODAY... andy, "do you think it would be possible for you to have something ready for supper tonight?" lol me, "sure, no problem" hahahahaha silly boy! with that today i will continue to "tame the shrew" i call laundry & prepare a delish dish for my family! i better make it good because i'll be eating it tomorrow for breakfast & lunch. the sun is shining in swayzee! but there's still quite a chill in the air. I was blessed this morning to another fuss free start & good 'chat' conversations with doretta & nancy. thanks ladies for an enjoyable chat. i'm praying today for safe travels for lowell & doretta, my nephew, bip, and safety on the road for andy and peace for my kids in school also for all those affected by the tragedy in haiti, my dear friends linsie & abby and the peacock family and for my mom. and a ton others. is it me? or does anyone else talk out loud to God through out the day? thanking Him for a blessing? requesting His presence, or lifting up a prayer? needless to say i talk a lot! but if you know me this should come as now surprise. :) tonight's only! activity is matts basketball practice. i hope andy & the kids can enjoy their time together as i will be a the "chuck".

BOOKS... you know the old saying beggers can't be choosers? well years ago i "begged" (not really) my friend marsha to suggest a book to get me into reading. she suggested fine things by daniell steele and it was a good one. it did it's job...kind of. having spent the last 4 years working in the jr. high as an instructional aide i took it upon myself to read books that i thought would be interesting to a jr. high girl and easier to comprehend for those who might have a reading disability. needless to say the genre i typically am attracted to is teen stuff ...i know, grow up already. well, joan bauer has become an author i enjoy reading. as my daughter would say her books are "short" (a characteristic that kate deems unworthy of reading) i would say her books are enjoyable & to the point. enjoyable even if you're my age, younger or older. so if you're looking for a good wholesome story that's a quick read i recommend the following joan bauer books: hope was here, best foot forward and rules of the road. read the last two back to back. they follow the same character.

well readers of my blog...thanks for stopping by, i do appreciate hearing from you & now i must be off to "prepare something for supper" :) ....this could take awhile.

until tomorrow...

1/13/2010

Day 2 kinda...officially day 1 but go figure, I'm playing catch up. The morning got off to a good start! Gotta like when that happens. It was almost harmonious! Kids off to school without fuss. Kate being a typical pre-menstrual teen girl ugh and me being the chauffeur. Everyone was on time and I do believe BEFORE the bell which it was pointed out to me was the preferred arrival time. (whatever) I've multi-tasked very well this morning. Wash is going, clothes are getting folded - now if only the wearer's of those clothes will PUT THEM AWAY! and I was able to enjoy Ellen all the while getting things done. I also took the time to write my dad a letter. It's funny, I totally thought I knew what all I wanted to say, yet as I began writing the feelings & words came out different than I had anticipated. With so many deaths over the course of the last month you can't help but be reflective on relationships. I'm sure the one with my father would be one in need of repair however I don't know that I have the tools to fix it. It's been broke for about 30 years...I have to wonder if they even make the parts needed. It was good though to get out what I needed to...now to get it into the mail.

Over all the day was ...well, uneventful. But! that's ok with me. I feel good about what got done both domestically & emotionally. Work was slower tonight, typical Wednesday but so enjoyable. I was with a good group of employees & customers. Sometimes I forget I'm at work. (sigh...how nice!) Kate had a game tonight, she said the girls won v.MG.

Now as the night draws to a close I would like to thank my Father above for blessing me so. For loving me always. For knowing me ...the good, bad & ugly and still wanting me more & more. I hope I can be pleasing to Him. Good night & sleep tight