2011 Welcome

NYE spent with the Powells, Nevers, Crauns, Farleys, Middlesworths.  Dinner in Kokomo at the Half Moon brewery followed by some of us (powells, nevers & cruns) gathering at the Crauns house for some apples to apples.  Fun.  I got my first kiss from my favorite guy! and thoroughly enjoyed the evening.  The day was warm and turned chilly and rainy as the night went on.

Kathryn celebrated with Kelsey Owings, Regan Holthouse and Regan Brankle and Matt was with Nick Smith & Andrew Tuttle.  I gathered up my youngn's at noon today.  Glad to all be back together again...kinda.  Matt retreated to his room, Kate crashed and Andy & I made a quick run to Kokomo to spend our Khols cash, make returns, and grab a pizza & get back home before it was time for the Rose Bowl.  Sadly the big 10 isn't doing so well this year in their respective bowl games.

We dined on cabbage, smoked sausage & carrots for lunch and pizza for supper!  Hoping that cabbage will bring about the ever sought "good luck".    Now for the record I'm not a big believer of luck (God has the plan) but I can't remember a time I didn't have it for the new year and at 44 why do away with tradition?

No resolutions for me this year.  Or last for that matter.  There are things I hope will get accomplished.  Like last year I'm really hoping we'll get our Swayzee house D.O.N.E.  I long to have friends and family over.  I want more than anything for my kids to have their friends over.  So, I vow to quit being a bum, and do all that I can daily toward that process!  Perhaps my doing will inspire 1 or 3 of the other folks I live with.  There's so much 'pre' stuff to do it just all seems so overwhelming.  Prayer...perhaps I'll rely on that to keep me going on this project.

Seems unbelievable that this year my daughter turns 15 & son 13!  How did that happen so quickly.  I get excited when I think of all the possibilities and experiences that lie ahead for them.  Not to mention I feel so fortunate they are where they are emotionally, mentally, spiritually, etc...  If only I would've had that sort of focus & drive! 

I've no idea what this year will hold.  I always get a little nervous and excited with each new year.  I do hope for all the basics, good health, happiness, etc....  But really just want more of the same...family time, time with friends, laughter, and a whole lot of memory making. 

So, here's to a good year and making more memories to reflect upon.  Here's to 2011.  Before you know it, it too will be just a memory.

weekend wrap up last of 2010

Well, Christmas Eve was spent with the Van Ness' family.  Our arrival there was a little later this year as we attended their Christmas Eve service.  The usual cheese ball, veggie tray & shrimp cocktail kicked off the evening.  Next was the gift exchange and then off to services.  It was a beautiful sight as we walked out of the church afterward...the biggest snow flakes ever were gently falling from the sky!  My son twirled about as he caught the flakes on his nose, tongue and eye lashes.  I love when the "little" kid in him shows up!  The falling snow was short lived as it diminished as we drove back home.  After church we continued the meal with oyster soup and tomato soup (yum), and gathered together to watch a bit of The Christmas story.  Such a nice evening.

Christmas morn brought about the usual ....early wake up call!  Matt played "Santa" and distributed the gifts.  A sign they're growing up...we each took turns opening and reveled in what each received.  Here we are 4 days out and they are both saying it's been "the best Christmas ever!"  Something I've observed this year is the gratitude in their words, actions, hearts.  As a mom that just add to the joy of it all.  I was given a beautiful necklace from my son.  He asked his dad to take him to Moser Jewelers so he could buy for Kathryn & I.  His selections were perfect.  That kid amazes me...daily.  What a joy!
Christmas afternoon was spent at my moms.  And low & behold all were in attendance.  Again a great evening...better than expected.  We enjoyed good food, conversation, and little ones.  Ike has a fascination with "Mac" aka Matt and I enjoyed had to get lap time with Ella singing Deck the Halls.  She chimed in with the "fa la la la la's".  So sweet.  That's the good stuff!

Sunday had me home bound in the am.  I was spent.  Later in the day Kate & I took a road trip to Muncie to get a shirt and few items for EJ,  The boys all gathered at the Van Ness' to watch football. 
Monday = more family time.  Back to the Van Ness' to have time with John, Mandy & kids!   I didn't mention before but Mark was home over Christmas.  It's been 2 years since he's been here so much time has been spent with him.  It's always good to see John & his family.  Such a fun group. 
I made it to the Dr. (finally).  Ugh....many prescriptions later... I'm sure i'll be on the mend in no time.  Sinus infection, ear infection, chest congestion, mouth full of canker sores...(brought out from all the infection), and a cough that is NOT productive.  Per Dr's orders I'm not to go 2 months suffering anymore! lol.  OK! 

Today - Tuesday, I'm feeling better not great but better.  Sure to be back to normal soon.  We're soon to be off to the Grant 4 basketball tournament.  Matt is with a friend today, so needless to say I'm missing him.  But he is having a blast I'm sure. 

I do love this time of year.  Even all the hectic craziness that comes with it.  Christmas is certainly something worth keeping in your hear all year long!

Looking forward to 2011. 
Blessed!

whatta week!  everyone is HOME!  & I love it.  thus the lack of blogging & facebooking on my part.  an early gift to me!  monday we headed to w. lafayette to see the purdue girl play and get another win! the drive over was beautiful!  snow was falling and it was a gorgeous snow at that.  4" total accumulation.  after the game we dined at arnies!  (yum).  andy had made reservations for us to spend the night in lafayette such a nice get-a-way and timing was perfect.  sadly, matt didn't want to go along.  he's "tired of going places" so he hung with his favorite people, grandpa & grandma van ness.  tuesday brought about shopping, lunch at hooters (we flipped for options) and an oak hill basketball game v. marion.  (lost by 6...great effort on our boys part) 

wednesday, wasn't a day i was looking forward to.  it was long.  started and ended well and the middle was completed. 

thursday was my day for doing up treats in the kitchen.  chex mix, hot cocoa mix, cracker snack, peanut butter fudge, blossoms, sugar cookies & toffee bark were all made and distributed.  i look forward to the day when my kitchen is new and spacious and then perhaps i'll up the occurrence of making good stuff. 

today, friday is Christmas eve.  it's one of my favorite days of the year.  it's a day filled with tradition and i do enjoy that!  i've a few treats i'd still like to make, a few last minute presents to wrap and then we're off to the van ness' for our traditional Christmas eve.  food: oyster soup, shrimp cocktail, cheese ball & crackers, ham, tomato soup, blossoms, & veggies.  lighting of the advent candles, reading of scripture, retelling of the Christmas eve when 7 bowls of soup was consumed.  (lol) and my favorite, time together.  this year mark will be home with us.  it's been 2 years since we've seen him.  glad he could make it.  and i almost forgot, Christmas eve service. 

i can't help but feel overly blessed when i think about all that has been given to me, freely given to me.  a Savior, my husband, my children, friends, home, pets, etc, etc, etc....  i'm flawed beyond measure yet daily i'm reminded how much i am loved, in spite of all the ick. 

i'm thankful that this year i've learned (stage 2) how to slow down a bit and enjoy.  how to better keep focus on what really matters.  i'm thankful for the blog option to emote, vent, spew, whatever.  and i'm really thankful for all the people in my life.  so many have come into it over the course of the year and each as been such a blessing.  some have gone from my life but their time in it remains with the memories and i'm sure it's purpose was served. 

well, that's it for me today.  i'm off to get a move on.  Merry Christmas to all...and to all a good night!

Sadly tis the season for B$tchen...

Same old song and dance... sang by aerosmith & my momma! 

Let me start by saying I love this time of year.  I love fall/winter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, NYE and having the kids home from school.  I love the foods that get prepared THIS time of year.  I love the music, the gatherings, the time together.  I love that the celebration of Christmas causes some to wonder about, seek out, focus on the meaning of this season.  I love giving gifts.


I don't love the inevitable conversation that takes place...EVERY YEAR...about: having a feeling this is gonna be the last Christmas, not having a man - therefore her traditions get shoved aside for those of others, getting the short end of the stick with regard to time spent with her Christmas day, being the ONLY one who has to alter plans...UGH!!!

MAN has chosen the 25th of December to celebrate the birth of the Christ child.   It's a day.  The focus of that day should be on the gift of the Christ Child.  The day is often, as it should be, celebrated with family and friends.  CELEBRATED, yet many families like mine, find themselves frustrated by the occurrences, nonoccurence's of the day. 

I just don't understand the need for all the frustration!

As for me and my family we will do what we can.  Be where we want and can be and celebrate Jesus and family...those near and dear, those across the miles, and those who are no longer with us.  I'll do all I can to keep their focus of the true gift, to create memories worth sharing and hopefully lite in them a desire to carry on some of the traditions we experience and encourage them to be open to new traditions.  

In the mean time, I'll be talking a lot to my God in heaven above, and myself as I try to reel in all the frustrations I've allowed others to provoke!  And pray to God that I can maintain the true spirit of Christmas within my heart all year long!

just a disappointment

for a week forecasters have been alerting us of a winter storm.  initial snow totals were to be 6-10 inches.  as the weekend drew nearer the arrival of the storm was pushed back and the snow totals were lessened.  ...with measly snow falling from the sky the kids were gifted a 2 hour delay and well, I can still grass poking through.  Epic fail in the winter storm category!   saddened am I.

Today is sure to be busy...i'm assisting with the cheer clinic, kat has an orchestra concert, and matt has a bb game at peru.  good news is andy is home this week so we will have to divide and conquer. 


returning to my love of snow, you must know that 1978 spoiled me.  i've such fond memories of the blizzard of '78 and have had a love love love of the white stuff ever since. 

tis the season for crazy busy stuff...but it's a season i love and am blessed to celebrate. 

somewhere along the line...we did good

I do & then think.  As a result there have been many times I've seconded guessed myself or have allowed others to cause me to doubt my parenting.  There have been times as a parent I've been flustered and annoyed, concerned, and wondered IF/WHEN my kids would get it.  And then...

...my daughter says to me "mom, i miss my best friend".  I ask who she's texting and she tells me and it's the ex-best friend.  When I suggest they make a plan she declines inviting her.  Puzzled I ask why?  and she replies "because I know how I felt when *B set out to make her HER friend and come between us, and I don't want *M to ever feel that way.  She knows I miss her and that will just have to be enough, the text messages that is."


& then this...

..."mom if I don't get asked to the valentine dance is it ok with you if I ask *X to go with me? "  me, "sure, why?"  Kate, "because, I know what it feels like to feel like you're never gonna be wanted or asked out, and it's a terrible feeling and I would hate for him to feel that way, when we could go together as friends"


And then today on the way home from school today my son shared this:  '"some one told me today I smile too much.  I'm always smiling and asked me why?  And it got me thinking....I smile because I'm happy.  You know mom how the *D family seems all together, you know sanded on the edges?  Nice house, clothes, good athletes, organized lockers and all and normal family?  and We're all crazy, frazzled and messed up house and I'm not organized and not the best athlete....well, it dawned on me...I like my life and am happy.  I like that you and dad are nuts and we're crazy and I like being home ....I'm just happy and we're FAR from perfect.  I wouldn't change it.  And I feel bad that my classmates find it odd that I smile when to look at them they would appear to have more of a reason to smile than I do"   "I'm just happy with our life".' 

Aahhhh! somewhere along the line...Andy & I did good!  We didn't do it alone, have to thank our church family, and family...we've all done good!  :)  PTL!

what if....

what if...

• welfare could only be received once every 7 years
• for the next 10 years any income in excess of 1 mil. was distributed to public schools
• kids were allowed to be kids
• "whacks" were reinstated as a form of correction in the schools 
• bullies were called out
• political correctness was thrown out the window
• people stuck w/ one face as opposed to two
• kindness prevailed
• smiles were given freely
• respect was given...from the start
• we agree to disagree
• we didn't judge
• love the sinner & hate the sin
• we spoke words of encouragement
• we return value to relationships
• we return value to people

what if...

Louise KLOVE's caller ...

So the kids were dropped off and I tuned in and turned up KLOVE for the drive home.  The DJ's were taking calls from listeners with Christmas confessions.  Next on the line, Louise.  Louise was somewhat difficult to understand and for a bit even difficult to listen to.  Her tone was agitated, angry perhaps.  Her confession:  She had suffered many personal losses this year and this Christmas is missing significant people and she isn't celebrating it without them.  In addition she has a 9 year old who is excited about Christmastime and the excitement is adding to her frustration and sadness. 

As you might imagine the DJ's were somewhat stunned, initially, as was I for her tone didn't seem to match the emotion she seemed to be conveying.  Sadness, is the emotion most would associate with missing loved ones this time of year, yet her voice seemed filled with anger.  Almost immediately the DJ's asked if they could pray with/for her.  Moments later a prayer was being lifted up and I too was praying with them.  All I could think about was how awful she must feel and I personally couldn't imagine.

The next thought that came to mind was 'and the child shall lead them'.  And I thought, if only she could see this time of year through the eyes of her 9 year old.  If only.  Louise didn't go into detail about the who and what of her loss but one would imagine if it was that close of a loved one that her 9 year old also felt the loss.  Yet through the eyes of the child the joy of Christmastime was still being experienced. 

I would assume since KLOVE is a Christian station that Louise is a believer to some extent.  And I would agree with the DJ's prayer was much needed.  I pray in-spite of her loss she'll feel and come to know the Love of Jesus this season.  That she'll be able to know and experience the blessing of the birth of the Christ child.  That she'll experience this Christmas with the eyes of a 9 year old. 

Join in praying for Louise and others who might be struggling with the celebration this season.  Pray that they, with the eyes of a child might enjoy the true gift of this season, and be reminiscent of time with loved ones lost and find joy in those moments that have come to pass. 

With or without those we love and those we've lost Christmastime is here and the joy of the reason for this season is cause to celebrate!  May there be JOY TO THE WORLD.

some favorite things

just thinking about some of my favorite things and new things that have come my way over the course of 2010:

books: Luxe series; Mother Daughter Book Club series; Jen Lancaster memoirs; a few good ones by Hope Bauer; Lock & Key by Sara Denssen (sp?) 

food:  nachos mexicanos @ lachas; Moes - (thanks heather!); pizza huts soup, salad and bread stix - mostly their salad w/ their wonderful italian dressing!  YUM!!  can't get enough; CW salad & wings well done; maggianos!

new & old relationships/friendships & acquaintances:  crauns, powells, halls, nevers', heather, heather, jessica, doretta, randi co-workers, this list can go on & on ...pretty much if you're reading this you're among my fav's!

technology & social sites; blogspot & blogging; Christian radio stations; the resurgence of GOD! my church and church family; our newest addition PJ the amazing mini schnauzer!  my amazing GE crockpot; advocare & it's 24 day challenge.

I'm sure there's more and without a doubt i'll be back with more to add.  Just curious...what are YOUR favorite things?

Good Tuesday morning

Freezing & beyond! It's a whopping 16 degrees out and not expected to get much warmer! I can't say I mind as this is my favorite time of year. But I would really prefer if SNOW were falling as well. (of course it would be warmer if that were to happen) There's a slight promise of a snow storm this weekend! The weather models are a bit up in the air as to what is REALLY going to happen (haha) so according to the weather guy "we'll just have to wait & see". Hummm go figure. I love weather & most weather reporting folk. So much so I've been encouraging Matt to strongly consider that line of employment. I figure with his curly hair, dimples, big brown eyes, and just over all good looks folks will be forgiving when he doesn't get it right! haha! He said if he does it he's gonna use the white board like Jim O'brien does and write random phrases just for fun. ...too funny!

Do you ever have that one thing you wish you were better at? I do. For me I wish I was better at letting others know when I'm thinking about them. There's a lady here in Swayzee whom I became acquainted with at church who is awesome at her card ministry. I so wish I was good at that. Every year I say I'm gonna do it and year after year I don't get it done. Nonetheless I'm still thinking, praying, wishing & rejoicing with so many through out the year. I just wish I was better about letting those who cross my mind know they're thought about. Who knows perhaps 2011 is the year to make it happen.

Took kate to the dr. yesterday, she has pleurisy again. She's taking a round of steroids and is on the mend. Dr. says she's just prone to it. :( not fun. Matt had a game yesterday, they lost, and has an away game tonight. Sure hope he's in a better mood for it. Andy is away this week. He's in the part of Indiana where it's snowing. Wish I was with him. Good news is he'll be off work from 12/21 until the first of the year! Can't wait...but will have too.

My Christmas shopping is done. Now to wrap! Thanks for stopping my. I encourage you to do a little random act of kindness today or tomorrow! :) make someone smile. I certainly hope so as it's become my passion.

quckie

saturday got to watch me great niece ball it up at MGYbL. so cute. you could tell she was having fun. then over to moms to say "hello" and see how her open house was going. it's been a beautiful morning as the ground is covered with snow and it continued to fall all day. mom was interview by the chronicle for her crafting abilities. such an honor for her. perhaps now is a good time to "retire"! lol ...i can only hope. matt went to watch the boilers w/ ed. and kate rested at home as she's not been feeling well. evening brought about dinner @ the chuckwagon with the powells and then boys basketball at oak hill. victory! it was a good game.

sunday has been a lazy day. church, angle tree shopping, watching the lady boilers and later on the colts and the amazing race. :) andy will be gone ALL next week :( that means my parenting duties will be doubled and it's a crazy busy week as it is. 3 ball games (m, t, tr) for matt and kate will be cheering friday night as OH takes on ole miss.

let it be known i'm hoping for snow, and many 2-hour delays this next week.

also just want to say i've really been blessed recently with new friendships that i really enjoy, andy & i both. thank you God for those people in our lives.

boy am i random...

showering it occurred to me that i might've not given the information requested by a friend on FB. so like any reasonable person, i hopped out of the shower, logged back on FB and answered the question a bit more thoroughly. (nuts...i know)

blowing dry my hair i thought to myself, 'i wonder what difference might be made in someones life if i became a prayer warrior for them on a daily biases?' ...now by random i mean so & so who lives at some random address in some random town from some random state. while contemplating that i thought to myself, 'golly, what would the differences be if i prayed for all those who i know & don't know who take the time, purposefully or accidentally to visit/read my blog and/or facebook!' ....so while blowing dry my hair I began my morning conversation with God. asking for His blessing on those who i encounter, cyberly or live in person. praying that something will 1) draw them closer to Him 2) inspire them to seek Him.

i had to chuckle while talking to Him because next thing i knew the door flew open a though someone was walking in on me and i look down to see my dogs. pretty sure they thought someone else was with me in the bathroom as sure enough i was talking aloud. i paused, scratched their heads and explained it was just God i was talking to. instead of continuing to play they both just sat at my feet and stuck around ....for the rest of my conversation.

i don't know how my prayers will affect those will receive them and that's okay, because i do know in someway God will have an effect. that's cool!



today: coffee house took place for matt & all the 7th grade at OHJH. i so love that kid! talk about a blessing. God amazes me with how much He trust me to love, nurture & raise 2 of His blessings. ed & ej were able to attend. as matt read his final poem it was touching to hear how he appreciates the wonder of Gods majesty and his thankfulness for His gifts. may he continue to fall in love with our Lord!

the sun is shinning, there's a promise of snow and God is good! blessings upon you and yours today and always. and know i am thankful for you in my life.

just a matter of time

a little bit of time can make all the difference.

today's technology allows us to communicate with masses in a matter of minutes. facebook, myspace, e-mail, all allow us to post information reaching many at one time, send messages to multiples or individuals in just a matter of seconds. yep seconds depending on how quickly you type. not to mention skyping which is also as quick and easy as a phone call.

i personally have many facebook connections and often feel like...so many people, so little time. i'm guilty of spending time "creep'n" or perusing as i like to call it, my friends' status, photos, etc.... i like being in the know what's going on with new & old acquaintances. and while doing so it dawned on me...why not take the time to say hi. just a little something to let them know i'm "here". i'm interested in what's new in their life.

time is precious as are friends, family, acquaintances so be it via a social network, an e-mail or a phone call take a moment of your time and reconnect. don't just peruse ...say "hi".

Hello December...you are my 2nd favorite month

Ahhh to wake up to SNOW! for me it doesn't get any better. Oh how I do love the white stuff.

Somewhere along the line today was declared national pay it forward day a.k.a random act of kindness day. I'm in. How much more awesome would the walk on this earth be if this were an everyday occurrence. So let the games begin if you will and not just today but let's say for the entire month of December I challenge YOU & myself to do a RAK everyday!

I've also came to the conclusion that SNOW is Gods way of slowing us down. So many of us go through our day (life) in such a hurry we don't slow ourselves down and enjoy the journey. Slow down on your drive and enjoy the majestic views, notice the bird trying to get the worm. Slow down and be thankful for the gift of time. You'll get to where you're going as soon as you arrive. What's the hurry?

Today my boy is off on a field trip & kate has a game tonight. Fun! I get my nails done, meet w/ pastor steve to review our youth Christmas party plans and then grocery shop. I'm planning on enjoying my drive time, take it slow and with any luck i'll put a smile on someones face today.

Today I will REJOICE! Won't you join me?

Happy December!

tis the season...

Well this Thanksgiving break went a bit different than in years past. Different location for the meals. Family members not in attendance and the addition of others. Overall it was enjoyable. Certainly a time to reflect and give thanks for all the many blessing in our lives.

At Ed and Ej's we had our traditional Thanksgiving readings. Poems, scripture and prayers left over from Thanksgivings past at Granny Anderson's. And as tradition dictates most sang and struggled through singing "Be Present at Our Table Lord". Only aunt Peggy & Valarie & girls were able to join us but the food was great & so was the time together! Next stop was to my nieces house for dinner with my side of the family. Again good food & my favorite cream cheese/tortilla roll ups (thanks kim). Once dinner was over we enjoyed several games of Uno attack, scategories and clue. Good times.

Black Friday sent us out with the masses. This year however both of the kids went along. Not so sure Andy enjoyed it much this year but overall the day was a success. Lunch was a Houlihans with Anne. Conversation & food were both good! Deep fried pickles for an appetizer and my salad get 2 thumbs up! Amazingly we were able to actually get surprises for the kids. All in all the time together was priceless. I feel very fortunate that at age 12 & 14 my kids still want to "hang" with me. Pretty sure when I was that age I was so over my parents.

Saturday was the annual Oaken Bucket game. Another 1st this year as Matthew came along. The Williams' were unable to attend and the same for Sherri as her mother passed away thanksgiving day. We enjoyed a tailgate at a seed company courtesy of Brian Farley. (thanks) Sadly the Boilers couldn't come up with the W. After the game we headed home to take in the Oak Hill girls & boys games. Both got the W. :)

Sunday...consider us all pooped! Andy went to church alone to fulfill his ushering duties. Kate slept until 12:30, Matt & I just relaxed, put lights on the tree and did a whole lot of nothing. We participated in the Annual Turkey Bowl(adults won!) and returned home to chill for the evening.

The best part about this break was with out a doubt time spent with my kids. This morning as Matt readied himself for school he said "I'm gonna miss you today mom!" I don't think it can get much better than that! I'm taking it easy today. I've made a pot of potato soup for my favorite people. Will receive a massage at 4 and then get to watch my beautiful daughter cheer at her first freshman basketball game.

3 weeks left until the kids are home for break. I can't wait. Tis the season to really enjoy the blessings bestowed on me by my savior.

A season for thanks...

So many on facebook have been listing the things they are thankful for daily as we approach the big holiday for giving thanks. It's been uplifting to read all the blessings in peoples lives and even to share my own. All the while there are those who struggle to find something to be thankful for or to have a spirit of thanks. I myself lift up those people. I can't imagine the emptiness they must suffer from to be alive...today...and struggle to give thanks.

As I've gotten older I've learned to STOP and look for the blessing in every...EVERY situation. That means the good, bad & ugly ones too. I have to remind myself that there is reason behind all that happens and that I am to be faithful in all that takes place. I've learned to give thanks when my kids don't mind...for I've been blessed with them. I've learned to give thanks when doing laundry...because if nothing else I've got a sweet washer & dryer. I've learned to give thanks for my shedding dog and my broken sweeper because one loves me unconditionally and the other...well once repaired will allow me to sweep my rugs that cover the floor in my house that keeps me warm and is full of all that is my family.

During the holidays as a mom most of us want everything 'just right'. The right decorations, the right appearance of our home, the right table setting, the right menu, the right clothes, etc... And the list goes on & on. I have been oh so humbled and through a combination of upbringing and my own domestic challenges have come to realize it's not about appearances, table settings, food, clothing, or gifts for that matter. It's about the family, the time, the laughter, the memories made. It's about the blessings God has so carefully crafted together in our lives. It's about Him and what He has done...for us. It's about giving thanks to a Heavenly Father for ALL the things - Blessings in our lives.

He tells us in scripture we're not to worry yet so many allow themselves to do just that. And over "stuff".

This holiday season I hope you can enjoy your blessings...'as is'. Do what you can and not worry about what doesn't happen. Enjoy those your with and reminisce about those who are not in attendance. Enjoy the moment, the memory being made because odds are it's the time, laughter, activity & conversation that will be most remembered and NOT the appearance of your surroundings or the food rather the time together.

Have a Blessed week before the official kick off of the Holiday season. This year...Chillax & enjoy! And feel blessed because you are!

Oh bother...

Well I've certainly learned to NOT stress! lol. My house is a COMPLETE DISASTER! My sweeper won't suck, my dog should be bald considering the amount he sheds. HELLO ANIMAL PLANET: YOU ARE TELLING LIES WHEN YOU INFORM YOUR VIEWERS THAT THE BASSET HOUND DOES NOT SHED!!! STOP IT! and the holidays are not creeping up on me they're sprinting to the finish! And I feel all I can do is laugh. Although perhaps if I try crying I'll shed some additional water weight poundage. Either way it is what it is and this too shall pass right?!? ....RIGHT?!!
Saturdays Purdue game was a wash! completely. Our offense can't score and it rained the entire game. Not on the way to the game...not walking in to the stadium but from the time our butts hit the bleachers until the final train whistle it rained. Then it was on to the Liberty tenderloin dinner. Yum...and visits with all the Van Ness clan that came in from: Wisconsin, Illinois, Florida, Greenwood, Ft. Wayne and Rockville. Good to see them only my time was cut short as I had to take the teen to a friends for "girls night" & cheer stuff. We celebrated Andy's birthday a bit. Good thing because on Sunday, his actual birthday I think I saw him for about 30 min. total. He's spending his birthday, monday & tuesday hunting in a state wide deer reduction hunt down at Shackamack state park. Sure hope he get's a deer or 3 :)

I on the other hand served lunch to the Sweetser UM voluenteers and staff, took the kids for a bit of shoppeing for much needed items, then returned to the church for youth stuff. Arrived home at 8:30 to the wails of my son with stomach pain...sure enough all items consumed that day made a repeat appearence around midnight. Someone needs to teach that boy how to puke, seek out a container or preferably the toilet! He's the worst and moves about while doing it! Really???? His college roommates will NEVER want to party with him!

Today, Monday...he's home b/c of the puking however at the time of this post is feeling much better! Thank God! I'll be taking my Dyson into Sears later for service...it quit sucking. (wish aspects of my life would...jk life is good)

Tuesday & wednesday this week I work....good thing because Thursday I shop! Now I don't really like shopping, but this time of year I tolerate it.

The sun is shining and the skies are blue and temps are mild. They're calling for 60's later in the week. This doesn't excite me. I'm anxiously awaiting the forcast for some snow & bitter cold so that I can fire up my fireplace. Come on colder temps.

Thanks for joining in....enjoy your Monday!

hello thursday...

well...this has been an exceptional November week. Amazingly beautiful, sunny, blue skies, in the upper 60's & mid 70's all in all awesome. Unless you're like me and wishing for and anxiously anticipating the arrival of cooler (or down right cold) temps and my favorite...SNOW!!!! I however must wait and 'suffer' through the beautiful warm fall days.

Today I enjoyed a 3 mile walk with a friend and enjoyed our conversation and laughs. I pray for her as she's a single mom and tired of being alone. I can't imagine what it would be like to try to meet someone NOW, all the while holding a fulltime job and raising 3 kids. I want to lift her up! and ask that you will too. I also got to spend time with my mother-inlaw. Time with my in-laws is just an additional reminder of how fortunate I am. I have truely been blessed.

Again today I'm reflective on relationships. I'm trying to be more real with the ones that have happened to me. I will say they are all unique. And I feel more & more they're a God thing. While on the trail today one of the passers by struck up conversation with us and she mentioned something that she's been doing...asking God to let her be a blessing to others and said since praying that prayer has noticed a difference in her relationships. I chuckeled to myself as I too have been praying that very same thing. Many times I've questioned WHY so & so has been put in my path and of late have concluded, because that's God's plan. So, since His plan isn't always clear I've began to pray that I too am a blessing to those who I encounter. Hopefully I'm have some sort of success at this.

I challenge you to take a look at the relationships in your life, past & present. Are they beneficial, encouraging, healty? I hope so. How's the most important relationship you could ever have? ...the one with Jesus Christ? I guarentee if you allow it to it will fill you up!

Blessings that have me thankful this Thanksgiving season: (11 for the day 11) <3 Andy <3 Kathryn <3 Matthew <3 Ed & Emma Jean <3 my Mom <3 my brother <3 my church <3 my home <3 my home <3 my dogs <3 my friends & aquaintences.

Ahhh the (lack of) Power of the Lunch Detention....

I subbed for 12 years, worked as a full-time Aide for 4 years (or 3...can't remember lol) any way in all those years MAYBE I issued 1 lunch detention. Only 1 you might ask! How only 1? Well you see I went into the lunch room to get my own lunch from time to time and bore witness to the LUNCH DETENTION TABLE where punishments were being served. At this table were kids who appeared to be like all the other kids in the cafe' only just waiting for their turn in line. Oh, and there's the stern looking adult (NOT) hovering nearby. You see when you receive a lunch detention for whatever the reason you are last in line, you are to sit at a designated table and of course it's preferred if your somewhat miserable and not showing signs of enjoyment...afterall a punishment is being served. (ha!) My observation confirmed my suspicion that the punishment was a pointless one. I never observed behaviors being changed. Therefore I chose to not issue the pointless piece of paper.

My son received another (yes not his 1st) lunch detention. His infraction, not having his writing folder and his hand book, which he never uses, with him in class. He informed the teacher they were in his locker and received the lunch detention and was sent to his locker to retrieve the items. Matt's was ok, with this. (he too knows it's "no big deal" to sit at the detention table) What puzzeled my son was what transpired after he returned with the materials he had arrived with out the first time. THE WRITING FOLDER AND HAND BOOK WERE NEVER USED, OR NEEDED!!! REALLY!

Now here's where it gets tricky for me. He asked me to make sense of that situation for him. I was at a loss. And having prior experience in the building he is now in I struggled to come up with a sensable explination. He knows he's to be prepared and he wasn't and he without issue did his 'time'.

I suppose I should've said something wise like..."they're trying to prepare you for the real world". But that would've, in my opinion been a falsehood. You see, my recent stint in the real world was in the school system. Many times teachers themselves were unprepared. Yet they were still able to eat lunch in a timely manner and at a table with their friends. I know I know they're grown ups. But what about the time when they forget or don't have time to grade the test/paper/project and return it in a timely manner like they said they would? Oh, yeah...grown ups and gownups get busy in the evenings. Therefore often times students are left waiting for the grade. What would it look like if the student happened to be busy the evening that homework was assigned? Would it be acceptable for them to not be ready? NOPE!

Now don't get me wrong...I have many friends who are teachers and I'll be the first to say they are under appreciated and overworked. I just feel there are better methods to getting a point across, or modifying behaviors. Especially at the jr./sr. high level. I think the lunch detention is a joke and doesn't begin to prepare them for the real world.

Just my opinion...and this is where I state them. ;)

a mixed bag for sure....

recap: Our family suffered a loss last week with the passing of Brian Buroker. He was one of the finest men I know. And without a doubt he will be greatly missed. Matthew made his return to school on thursday so that he would have the chance to tryout for the basketball team...only to have his fever return resulting in another day home on friday. Friday afternoon we attended Brians viewing and then headed down to Terre Haute for the night. Andy, again has been selected for the state wide deer reduction hunt at Shackamack state park and had to prepare his site first thing saturday morning. Then it was off to W. Lafayettte where Purdue was taking on Wisconsin. We listened to the 1st half of the game while driving to the stadium and once we arrived ....well, it all went down hill for the boilers. I'm beginning to take it personal. :/ Next it was on to the youth bon fire for some bonding with the kiddos. All in all Saturday was a great day, football, time with lex & haley, my boy finally seemed 100%!!!! and I can't recall any fussing. Sunday was a busy day too as Andy & the deciplship team gave a presentation after church, then there was youth...which I was unable to attend and kat's cheer dinner which I did attend. So that is pretty much the weekend update....matt still has 1 more day of tryouts to get through...we're still praying for a positive outcome!

So now for the things that have me puzzeled...and other ponderings:

Why is it ...the whole must be punished for the sins of some? ...those who break the rules continue to go unpunished? ...parents don't let coaches coach? ...you simile and say hello only when others might be watching? ...people tolerate or are afraid to out the craziess who ultimately have an impact on their life & that of their child? ...why are girls mean? ...why the personal attacks on one another?

Sadly as our kids go through this growing up process they often find themsleves "muted" if you will. Speaking up/out results in 1) risking adults & peers thinking you're a "nark". 2) becoming a social outcast 3) some form of bullying. Instead of the 'talk' taking place with the adults/coaches the conversations are held amongst each other with no solutions being offered, instead irritations are deepened. What's it gonna take for someone to stand up and call out those who need to be called out?

"Hi, Kel!" really?!? I know I know it's a simple greeting but it still take's me by surprise when it comes from someone who made a couple of things clear: 1) we are no longer friends & 2) due to the lack of "friendship" I am no longer liked... So do me a favor and save the "hi, kel". It's unnecessary and pathetic when given only in the presence of others. And furthermore...my friends call me Kel and you withdrew your friendship. I must say...for the 1st time ever I didn't reply to the greeting. It was somewhat awkard in the moment but that soon faded as it's much easier to just not be fake.

Well...here's to a warm November week. Boy is Indina crazy in the weather catagory! Good news is...it's sure to change.