She's here! :) What a whir-wind of a week! For all involved! 9 days ago we decided to host an exchange student. Were discouraged that our school would likely not accept anymore at this time, became hopeful again that it was going to happen and 8 days ago received confirmation we were a go! Much paperwork, many phone calls, a home inspection, a beautiful young lady form a 1/2 a world away made her way to the USA and into our home as well as our hearts!
Prior to her arrival we were able to connect on FB and even video chat with one another! Family to family! I can only begin to imagine the anxiety her parents are experiencing! A school year is a long time and the distance is great when someone you love dearly is gone. I feel happy that we were able to talk because I so wanted to help calm their nerves so that they might experience a sense of peace.
Almost home: (in the USA)
Ft. Wayne Int'l airport arrival 4:16 (30 min late mind you) pm. She's here! I quickly glanced at my own family and self included the smiles were ear to ear! I greeted her with a huge hug (of course) and she gave each of us one in return! and then the tears! Of joy, relief, excitement, everything all bubbling up and over! All the while with the biggest smile I've ever seen! Even through the exhaustion she managed to talk the whole way home! The kids gave her a quick tour of the property, a 4-wheel ride, moved her bed, and she presented her gifts! Supper included a couple of firsts! She had both pizza- without cheese first as she doesn't care for dairy, but said she would try a piece with cheese as well. ( & that her mom would be proud of her as her mom loves pizza). SUCCESS! She loved both pizza without the cheese AND the pizza with the cheese! And according to her "i'm am happy!" We were all happy! As we eat a lot of pizza! How did I not get a picture of this :( FAIL!
Ed & EJ joined us for the evening. She brought traditional snacks, coffee mugs, wine vessels, caps for the men, t-shirt for matt and necklaces for kat & I and a beautiful compact for EJ. So thoughful!
I hope to find a balance in the arena of time. I don't want to overwhelm her and want to allow her the time to have the experiences she hopes to. And I'm certain it'll all work out! What a year this is gonna be! I'm beyond excited!
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Friday, August 2, 2013
a whole new world
So if you've followed my blogging at all you know that i'm a firm believer that ALL things are part of the bigger plan. With that said, I am yet again amazed at how God has connected me/us to another family 1/2 a world away.
This is how it came to be....
While at dress rehearsal on Monday evening i reviewed my email and was deleting many when i came across one whose subject line read "11 host families needed". I opened the email and there was an expressed urgent need for host families for foreign exchange students. I didn't bother to open any of the profiles but for some reason didn't delete them either. Tuesday morning, I went straight to the email. I opened the profiles one by one, read through them all but kept coming back to the very first one I opened. Ekaterine from Georgia. I can't explain what specifically drew me back to her profile but I've learned to not question those things anymore. After reading through all the profiles I asked Andy if he'd want to host and didn't even get to finish expressing the need when he was quick to answer YES! I asked him again, sure he had misunderstood the question. Again, he said "yes". I awoke Kat and mentioned it to her and without hesitation she too said YES! Matt was at work at the time so he had no say. With that said all have expressed an interest in being a host family for sometime so I felt certain that he'd be on board!
Who to host?!? I had Kat make the final decision. I had her look at a few profiles that I had narrowed down and was sure to not express my preference with her. She too chose Ekaterine. With the decision made I made the call and spent the next 48 hours jumping through the proverbial hoops to get things in order so that our newest family member could join us!
"No, we're not going to accept anymore exchange students" that was what was said when I registered the kids for school and we were in the middle of processing. "no" ugh! he had to be kidding!. With a deep breath I encouraged him to be prayerful and I chose to be optimistic! As the day progressed I received a bit of encouragement from another host family and more 'hoop jumping' took place.
Noon 7/31 came the "YES" we had hoped for! With a 5pm deadline for application/placement and ticketing, the limits were being pushed! We were in an approved, holding pattern! And then word....Done & Done! Home visit will take place on 8/2 and we'll receive contact info.
7:00am 8/2: Andy awoke me with a phone call and I anxiously checked email hoping there would be something from/or about her but not sure what. AND THERE WAS! Happy is an understatement. She's beautiful, seems outgoing, and I can't wait for her arrival!
After our chatting I was also able to chat with her father! He and her mother are so excited and nervous for their daughter. This is for sure going to be a most memorable experience and living it out will be a blessing for sure.
God has made this possible without a doubt! And it's going to be so fun. A half a world away two families are joining and an amazing adventure is about to take place!
hold on .....here we go!
This is how it came to be....
While at dress rehearsal on Monday evening i reviewed my email and was deleting many when i came across one whose subject line read "11 host families needed". I opened the email and there was an expressed urgent need for host families for foreign exchange students. I didn't bother to open any of the profiles but for some reason didn't delete them either. Tuesday morning, I went straight to the email. I opened the profiles one by one, read through them all but kept coming back to the very first one I opened. Ekaterine from Georgia. I can't explain what specifically drew me back to her profile but I've learned to not question those things anymore. After reading through all the profiles I asked Andy if he'd want to host and didn't even get to finish expressing the need when he was quick to answer YES! I asked him again, sure he had misunderstood the question. Again, he said "yes". I awoke Kat and mentioned it to her and without hesitation she too said YES! Matt was at work at the time so he had no say. With that said all have expressed an interest in being a host family for sometime so I felt certain that he'd be on board!
Who to host?!? I had Kat make the final decision. I had her look at a few profiles that I had narrowed down and was sure to not express my preference with her. She too chose Ekaterine. With the decision made I made the call and spent the next 48 hours jumping through the proverbial hoops to get things in order so that our newest family member could join us!
"No, we're not going to accept anymore exchange students" that was what was said when I registered the kids for school and we were in the middle of processing. "no" ugh! he had to be kidding!. With a deep breath I encouraged him to be prayerful and I chose to be optimistic! As the day progressed I received a bit of encouragement from another host family and more 'hoop jumping' took place.
Noon 7/31 came the "YES" we had hoped for! With a 5pm deadline for application/placement and ticketing, the limits were being pushed! We were in an approved, holding pattern! And then word....Done & Done! Home visit will take place on 8/2 and we'll receive contact info.
7:00am 8/2: Andy awoke me with a phone call and I anxiously checked email hoping there would be something from/or about her but not sure what. AND THERE WAS! Happy is an understatement. She's beautiful, seems outgoing, and I can't wait for her arrival!
After our chatting I was also able to chat with her father! He and her mother are so excited and nervous for their daughter. This is for sure going to be a most memorable experience and living it out will be a blessing for sure.
God has made this possible without a doubt! And it's going to be so fun. A half a world away two families are joining and an amazing adventure is about to take place!
hold on .....here we go!
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Perfection is most certainly undefined and is most likely ever changing. That excites me. I've never really been one to strive for perfection as I'm not a huge fan of disappointment. Yesterday however was pretty close to perfection. The plan: a day on a boat with good friends. The plan was a success. It's hard to call a day perfect when my kiddo's are not involved yet yesterday was pretty close. Everything just played out perfectly. Andy & I were able to sleep until we no longer needed to. Matt had the opportunity to work and called me on his lunch break all excited because he had made $30 in tips in his first hour! Not bad for a 15 year old...$37.25 is pretty outstanding for one hour of work! Kat picked up hours as well, which is a good thing as she's planning for spring break 2014 and has a plane ticket to buy! That left Andy & I to have our own adventure. It was a most beautiful date day boating on the reservoir and wrapping up the day with some BBQ from Jefferson St. in Converse. YUM! And then we relaxed. ....even more! Kat came home, Matt spent the night with his 2 favorite people (Ed & Ej) and with the setting of a gorgeous sun the day was done. Perfection ....at least for me, for the day!
Today hasn't been too far off. Even though I'm cleaning I feel lucky to get to do so. I'm in the home of our dreams, things are not too messy! (major accomplishment) Andy is willing and able to do stuff outside as well and tonight Kat & I will return to MCT for continued rehearsal for OLIVER!
I'm astounded how quickly time is flying by! Over the course of the next month the following events will take place....register for school my Sr. & Soph, Stroup & Cox reunions, Cheer camp, AND applying to college! WOW! throw in a few bon fires, over-nighters, and a supper club outing and wowzeers we've got a fun filled month ahead of us! I'm so excited for each upcoming day! So many opportunities for fun and fellowship with others!
There are sure to be downs to accompany the ups but knowing each moment passes and God willing we're blessed with new ones it's hard to not to get excited for all that is in store.
Blessings all...
Today hasn't been too far off. Even though I'm cleaning I feel lucky to get to do so. I'm in the home of our dreams, things are not too messy! (major accomplishment) Andy is willing and able to do stuff outside as well and tonight Kat & I will return to MCT for continued rehearsal for OLIVER!
I'm astounded how quickly time is flying by! Over the course of the next month the following events will take place....register for school my Sr. & Soph, Stroup & Cox reunions, Cheer camp, AND applying to college! WOW! throw in a few bon fires, over-nighters, and a supper club outing and wowzeers we've got a fun filled month ahead of us! I'm so excited for each upcoming day! So many opportunities for fun and fellowship with others!
There are sure to be downs to accompany the ups but knowing each moment passes and God willing we're blessed with new ones it's hard to not to get excited for all that is in store.
Blessings all...
Friday, July 12, 2013
so many choices in life and for a contemplative person like myself all the choices leads me to think, think and rethink. aaaarrrrggggghhhhh! in my 47 years i've concluded a few things 1) i am the only one in control of my happiness. i choose. 2) in every moment i have a choice. i choose.
truthfully i've learned more than that. one little tid bit that i've garnered is that life is too short, and such a blessing that i've decided to take mine back from this world and give it all to God. and it's totally working for me. but, not without effort on my part. i broke this life thing down and concluded for every day He blesses me with, every moment for that matter, i have a choice.
this world and this life no matter your position throws so much at you and often without end. things break, others can be less than pleasant, the road gets rough and things just don't go as planned not to mention unplanned illness'. that too has been a lesson learned. with all that said i choose how i react to all of it.
it's not always easy and i don't always succeed. but i've decided to continue down that path. as a result i'd say i'm happier, calmer, a lot less angry & annoyed and all of that make for enhanced blessings. not necessarily more blessings but a greater appreciation for what is my world.
lesson 3) not everyone in 'your world' is willing to share in your happiness, appreciate your happiness. lesson 4) my world is ever changing. interestingly enough i'm a fan of change. and it's comforting to know that i get to be in control of how i choose to respond to the changes that come my way.
if only i would've learned this lesson earlier on i believe much grief could have been avoided, yet much of what has transpired in my life has brought me to the frame of mind i'm in today. God knows my path and He is who i trust implicitly. whatever comes my way i will get through. i will not be alone nor will He forsake me. it's a give, give relationship.
i choose to live for Him. i hope to be a light. and lesson 5) kindness is so much easier to put out, far more enjoyable when it comes back and leaves you with zero regrets when it's not accepted.
so what are your thoughts? what lessons have you learned?
truthfully i've learned more than that. one little tid bit that i've garnered is that life is too short, and such a blessing that i've decided to take mine back from this world and give it all to God. and it's totally working for me. but, not without effort on my part. i broke this life thing down and concluded for every day He blesses me with, every moment for that matter, i have a choice.
this world and this life no matter your position throws so much at you and often without end. things break, others can be less than pleasant, the road gets rough and things just don't go as planned not to mention unplanned illness'. that too has been a lesson learned. with all that said i choose how i react to all of it.
it's not always easy and i don't always succeed. but i've decided to continue down that path. as a result i'd say i'm happier, calmer, a lot less angry & annoyed and all of that make for enhanced blessings. not necessarily more blessings but a greater appreciation for what is my world.
lesson 3) not everyone in 'your world' is willing to share in your happiness, appreciate your happiness. lesson 4) my world is ever changing. interestingly enough i'm a fan of change. and it's comforting to know that i get to be in control of how i choose to respond to the changes that come my way.
if only i would've learned this lesson earlier on i believe much grief could have been avoided, yet much of what has transpired in my life has brought me to the frame of mind i'm in today. God knows my path and He is who i trust implicitly. whatever comes my way i will get through. i will not be alone nor will He forsake me. it's a give, give relationship.
i choose to live for Him. i hope to be a light. and lesson 5) kindness is so much easier to put out, far more enjoyable when it comes back and leaves you with zero regrets when it's not accepted.
so what are your thoughts? what lessons have you learned?
Thursday, June 27, 2013
time sure does fly when you're having fun! and when you get older! and when you have much to do! *sigh*
passed on the rummages this year....i like going to them but don't like doing them! AT ALL! i'm amazed and a bit in awe of those who do! seriously.... they're a ton of effort just prepping for them and then you are tethered to them until closing time! just. can't. do. it! A) 'cause i'm a sloth B) 'cause i don't want to and C) 'cause I'm a sloth...still! L.A.Z.Y. my mom was dead on with that call! i've decided to just embrace it because after all it would take substantial effort on my part to make a change.
kat started off right away working this summer. she scored a gig as a life guard at the splash house and for the first couple of weeks i had matt & mom time! <3 15="" 1="" 2="" a="" accomplished="" all="" and="" another="" applications="" around="" be="" because="" been="" believe="" both="" brilliant="" car="" could="" day="" days="" decided="" do="" don="" dropping="" drove="" encouraging="" ever="" except="" eyes="" felt="" for="" gathering="" giddy="" gonna="" great="" had="" happy="" he="" him="" hire="" hired="" his="" i="" idea="" in="" it="" know="" later.....he="" little="" lol="" mid="" mom="" moment="" nbsp="" obtaining="" of="" off.="" old="" only="" p="" proud="" real="" right="" s="" see="" seriously="" so="" t="" take="" taller="" that="" the="" them="" then="" through="" to="" total="" trying="" ve="" walked="" wanted="" was="" wash="" way="" week="" when="" while="" who="" work.="" year="">
fathers day of course came and went. to celebrate ed and andy we dined out before the IN/KY allstar basketball game. we enjoyed italian fare at bella vita on giest. it was yummy but lunch menu had fewer options. my dad ...well, i assume he was released from the hospital and i'll also assume he received the card i mailed him.
o.h.s.c. ventured north to warsaw and enjoyed amazing food at Noa Noa! omg so good! so it's in the books for a return visit from the van ness family.
today is june 26. arrgghhh! can't believe it's the end of the first month of summer break. kat leaves saturday for church camp, she's a counselor again this year. as a result she will miss our annual fireworks, my birthday and will be extending her absence to be with her friends at the lake. :( glad she's enjoying herself by selfishly missing her. ...that's normal. right?
hoping to spend the 4th with andy at shipshewana. i'll be 47 that day. i'm kinda excited about that. minus the fat knees and occasional body aches i'm digging the growing old process. what i'm not digging is the angst that's been developing as time passes. double aaarrrrgggghhhh! not a big fan of that out of control feeling.
tomorrow marks the 20th day without elly. ....miss her like crazy. with that said, toby has come to the homestead. matt is the proud owner of the new guy, a black lab. he's 6 weeks old and seems to be enjoying his new digs. he has some mighty big shoes to fill.
so june has certainly been eventful with a road trip with the ohsc ladies to shipshe followed by another road trip with heather to meet one of our mutually favorite authors jen lancaster!!! i totally tried to avoid appearing too FANtastic :) and just be super casual about our meeting. ....well i'm guessing i failed. you see i told her "i like your brain"!! who says that? ....me, 'cause i'm a goob.
so yeah, june was fun and fast and july is 'bout to be jumpin! and august....well, that will mark the beginning of the end. applications 8/1 to colleges, sr. year starting & soph. year for the boy! how is it possible. the angst is mounting. eek!
feeling as though it's gonna be a fast & furious ride.
passed on the rummages this year....i like going to them but don't like doing them! AT ALL! i'm amazed and a bit in awe of those who do! seriously.... they're a ton of effort just prepping for them and then you are tethered to them until closing time! just. can't. do. it! A) 'cause i'm a sloth B) 'cause i don't want to and C) 'cause I'm a sloth...still! L.A.Z.Y. my mom was dead on with that call! i've decided to just embrace it because after all it would take substantial effort on my part to make a change.
kat started off right away working this summer. she scored a gig as a life guard at the splash house and for the first couple of weeks i had matt & mom time! <3 15="" 1="" 2="" a="" accomplished="" all="" and="" another="" applications="" around="" be="" because="" been="" believe="" both="" brilliant="" car="" could="" day="" days="" decided="" do="" don="" dropping="" drove="" encouraging="" ever="" except="" eyes="" felt="" for="" gathering="" giddy="" gonna="" great="" had="" happy="" he="" him="" hire="" hired="" his="" i="" idea="" in="" it="" know="" later.....he="" little="" lol="" mid="" mom="" moment="" nbsp="" obtaining="" of="" off.="" old="" only="" p="" proud="" real="" right="" s="" see="" seriously="" so="" t="" take="" taller="" that="" the="" them="" then="" through="" to="" total="" trying="" ve="" walked="" wanted="" was="" wash="" way="" week="" when="" while="" who="" work.="" year="">
fathers day of course came and went. to celebrate ed and andy we dined out before the IN/KY allstar basketball game. we enjoyed italian fare at bella vita on giest. it was yummy but lunch menu had fewer options. my dad ...well, i assume he was released from the hospital and i'll also assume he received the card i mailed him.
o.h.s.c. ventured north to warsaw and enjoyed amazing food at Noa Noa! omg so good! so it's in the books for a return visit from the van ness family.
today is june 26. arrgghhh! can't believe it's the end of the first month of summer break. kat leaves saturday for church camp, she's a counselor again this year. as a result she will miss our annual fireworks, my birthday and will be extending her absence to be with her friends at the lake. :( glad she's enjoying herself by selfishly missing her. ...that's normal. right?
hoping to spend the 4th with andy at shipshewana. i'll be 47 that day. i'm kinda excited about that. minus the fat knees and occasional body aches i'm digging the growing old process. what i'm not digging is the angst that's been developing as time passes. double aaarrrrgggghhhh! not a big fan of that out of control feeling.
tomorrow marks the 20th day without elly. ....miss her like crazy. with that said, toby has come to the homestead. matt is the proud owner of the new guy, a black lab. he's 6 weeks old and seems to be enjoying his new digs. he has some mighty big shoes to fill.
so june has certainly been eventful with a road trip with the ohsc ladies to shipshe followed by another road trip with heather to meet one of our mutually favorite authors jen lancaster!!! i totally tried to avoid appearing too FANtastic :) and just be super casual about our meeting. ....well i'm guessing i failed. you see i told her "i like your brain"!! who says that? ....me, 'cause i'm a goob.
so yeah, june was fun and fast and july is 'bout to be jumpin! and august....well, that will mark the beginning of the end. applications 8/1 to colleges, sr. year starting & soph. year for the boy! how is it possible. the angst is mounting. eek!
feeling as though it's gonna be a fast & furious ride.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
memorial day was like a comma...,
,
That's the best way to describe Memorial day 2013, a comma. A pause. A much needed break in the action that is our crazy, busy, fun, tiring, rewarding, blessed lives. WOW WHAT A WEEKEND! What a month, What a year (thus far).
A remodel completed, new house purchased, an ill timed cruise, a move, a 2nd remodel started, and continued moving of stuff, setting up house, making it our own, 12 hours a week of mowing, end of school year activities and the kick off of summer. whew!
This weekend was a mixture of all! but mostly it served as a reminder of our many blessings! Kat enjoyed lake time with best friends before one graduates, travels and prepares to move for school, poor matt was laid up fighting of exhaustion and a cold while andy & I continued with the norm and threw in additional fun in prepping for OHSC family night at our house! fun!
Our first official summertime party was a success! Food consisted of wild hog roasted (as killed by andy while he & juan were on their hunting expedition) 3 whole chickens bbq'd to perfection, mac & cheese, baked beans, 3-bean salad, corn casserole, ramen noodle salad, chips & dips, dump cake, cherry pie, strawberry shortcake x's 2 versions, caramel corn and veggie pizza. The pouring rains held off allowing for fun by the bonfire and cornhole! What a day spent with some of the best friends anyone could ask for! (&family)
And then came Monday and the rain which seemed to bring about the pause. Each awoke on their own time and went about their own business. Andy for the first time in YEARS just sat and I was thankful. Dvr'd Duck Dynasty combined with a Pawn Stars marathon made for a relaxing day for him. Kat caught up on her sleep and left midday for a study group prepping for finals. Matt...well made occasional appearances for sustenance only! I casually continued the never ending job that is laundry, fell asleep in a soothing bath, made some filling goulosh, and enjoyed my family, our home and thought about my momma often....with a smile of course.
The benefit of a 'comma' type day.....well I'd say a peaceful next morning. I can't bring myself to say time was wasted, or a day of work lost because of how our day went. Time is precious and our time was spent together. Perhaps not 100% engaged together but for the most part we were here and available. Do yourself a favor and enjoy a comma of a day every now and again! It does the body, mind and family good!
Happy summer every one!
That's the best way to describe Memorial day 2013, a comma. A pause. A much needed break in the action that is our crazy, busy, fun, tiring, rewarding, blessed lives. WOW WHAT A WEEKEND! What a month, What a year (thus far).
A remodel completed, new house purchased, an ill timed cruise, a move, a 2nd remodel started, and continued moving of stuff, setting up house, making it our own, 12 hours a week of mowing, end of school year activities and the kick off of summer. whew!
This weekend was a mixture of all! but mostly it served as a reminder of our many blessings! Kat enjoyed lake time with best friends before one graduates, travels and prepares to move for school, poor matt was laid up fighting of exhaustion and a cold while andy & I continued with the norm and threw in additional fun in prepping for OHSC family night at our house! fun!
Our first official summertime party was a success! Food consisted of wild hog roasted (as killed by andy while he & juan were on their hunting expedition) 3 whole chickens bbq'd to perfection, mac & cheese, baked beans, 3-bean salad, corn casserole, ramen noodle salad, chips & dips, dump cake, cherry pie, strawberry shortcake x's 2 versions, caramel corn and veggie pizza. The pouring rains held off allowing for fun by the bonfire and cornhole! What a day spent with some of the best friends anyone could ask for! (&family)
And then came Monday and the rain which seemed to bring about the pause. Each awoke on their own time and went about their own business. Andy for the first time in YEARS just sat and I was thankful. Dvr'd Duck Dynasty combined with a Pawn Stars marathon made for a relaxing day for him. Kat caught up on her sleep and left midday for a study group prepping for finals. Matt...well made occasional appearances for sustenance only! I casually continued the never ending job that is laundry, fell asleep in a soothing bath, made some filling goulosh, and enjoyed my family, our home and thought about my momma often....with a smile of course.
The benefit of a 'comma' type day.....well I'd say a peaceful next morning. I can't bring myself to say time was wasted, or a day of work lost because of how our day went. Time is precious and our time was spent together. Perhaps not 100% engaged together but for the most part we were here and available. Do yourself a favor and enjoy a comma of a day every now and again! It does the body, mind and family good!
Happy summer every one!
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
948-5563
Well momma, today's the day! Oh my goodness I can hardly believe it. I'm imagining our conversation and your excitement for all of us! Your expressing concern over the added distance thus additional time it will take to get to your house to see you, but knowing you're happy that we're happy. I know you'd probably have a surprise of a wreath or some sort of decoration for the new place! I purposely saved some items and supplies just so I could do exactly that. (....although not even close to as lovely as what you could do.)
Golly I sure do miss you! It's weird to think that life just.....goes on. I miss most our conversations! We could talk (&argue) about any and everything. Man I miss that!
And the kids...Matthew turns 15 in 2 days and Kathryn 17 in a couple of weeks! You would've celebrated 76! I'm holding onto the hope (fact!) that you're celebrating your 2nd heavenly birthday in your pain free body! That thought alone brings me joy! And of course that you're no longer 'alone' rather you're with grandpa & grandma....a family again!
I pray you continue to watch over us and hope to you visit me again soon!
Miss and love you loads momma!
I'll talk to you later!
Golly I sure do miss you! It's weird to think that life just.....goes on. I miss most our conversations! We could talk (&argue) about any and everything. Man I miss that!
And the kids...Matthew turns 15 in 2 days and Kathryn 17 in a couple of weeks! You would've celebrated 76! I'm holding onto the hope (fact!) that you're celebrating your 2nd heavenly birthday in your pain free body! That thought alone brings me joy! And of course that you're no longer 'alone' rather you're with grandpa & grandma....a family again!
I pray you continue to watch over us and hope to you visit me again soon!
Miss and love you loads momma!
I'll talk to you later!
Thursday, March 7, 2013
well many of you who read my blogs or know me personally know that in a week or two (or 3) we will be moving. not far mind you but to a new, to us, home. i'll be a country girl for the first time. we will no longer be residents of grant county. or for that matter a part of the oak hill community...at least by address standards. and as most of you know i'm beyond excited, overwhelmed with the task and even more overwhelmed with the blessing. i've driven by the home many times. i've taken friends and family by it and even assisted a good friend who doesn't enjoy driving, at all....in finding the house from her own so that she can come by and chill with me like i do to her! i even took my mom by the house shortly after we put an offer on it. she passed 2 months later. she'll never get to visit there and the mother-in-law residence on the property will not be occupied by her but nonetheless she knows where we'll be.
and that's the thing about this move.... there are those who i want to know where we'll be. for without a doubt the new place is 'out of the way'. in the middle of nowhere and on your way to no place. :) ....kinda like swayzee only w/o the neighbors and much more land. but i wonder....i wonder if my father will ever try to find me. for i'm just curious.
and that's the thing about this move.... there are those who i want to know where we'll be. for without a doubt the new place is 'out of the way'. in the middle of nowhere and on your way to no place. :) ....kinda like swayzee only w/o the neighbors and much more land. but i wonder....i wonder if my father will ever try to find me. for i'm just curious.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
there's just no pleasing some people and over time my desire to do so diminishes.
as this happens to me i wonder what Jesus' position would be when dealing with some folk. for i've been kind, used kind words, have traded curiosity for judgement and yet i am approaching exhaustion. my psyche is taking a beating and i wonder how much longer must i remain in the proverbial boxing ring?
it's as if satan has moved away from me directly and is taking the pot shots at me via another? you know... through one who perhaps is less likely to call on His name as the ugliness of this world sets in. and so i reflect on myself...am i a part of the ugliness? if so Father forgive me and wash it away for i do not want any part of that to be what i put out for it is not reflective of You.
so i will be prayerful. i will take comfort in knowing this is part of a plan....a plan that is perfect.
and i will continue to be me....a work in progress.
as this happens to me i wonder what Jesus' position would be when dealing with some folk. for i've been kind, used kind words, have traded curiosity for judgement and yet i am approaching exhaustion. my psyche is taking a beating and i wonder how much longer must i remain in the proverbial boxing ring?
it's as if satan has moved away from me directly and is taking the pot shots at me via another? you know... through one who perhaps is less likely to call on His name as the ugliness of this world sets in. and so i reflect on myself...am i a part of the ugliness? if so Father forgive me and wash it away for i do not want any part of that to be what i put out for it is not reflective of You.
so i will be prayerful. i will take comfort in knowing this is part of a plan....a plan that is perfect.
and i will continue to be me....a work in progress.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
well....the time is upon us! i'm so full of emotion and what not i don't even know where to begin! so many thoughts going through my head....proud of my husband and all of his hard work and sacrifice...over 2 years worth! there's not a doubt in my mind that when the time is right the house in amboy will sell and he shall reap his reward! ....excited for my family! 1yr & 9 mos. later we will be moving into our dream home! a beautiful home that satisfies all our needs and wants. situated on just under 8 acres it has the barns and out buildings that appeal to my husband as well as beautiful landscaping, mature trees, hills and a meandering stream. i used to lose him to work in amboy and was sad and now i look forward to losing him to work 'in the barns' and can't wait! it's truly his dream place and there's not a man alive that deserves it more than him. he has cared for this family in so many ways...he's nothing short of amazing. ....can't wait to decorate! but totally feel like i'll be in over my head. i'm not sure of the look i'm going for but am looking forward to finding it out. ...i'm looking forward to dinners at our table, a revolving back/front door for friends and family, movie nights, bon fires, walks to my friends' houses & back home again - totaling 6mi walked!!!! :) thank you very much!...
i keep thinking how happy i am that i was able to show mom where it was....because she'll know where to find me.
This is our soon to be new home. Please come and visit....anytime! It's a little out of the way, but what's a bit of distance between family & friends.
i keep thinking how happy i am that i was able to show mom where it was....because she'll know where to find me.
This is our soon to be new home. Please come and visit....anytime! It's a little out of the way, but what's a bit of distance between family & friends.
Saturday, February 9, 2013
948-5563
hey mom. it's been awhile. i've enjoyed our :11 convo's throughout the day. i sure do miss you...especially today. not so sure why today but nonetheless today you occupy my thoughts. there's not much new to catch you up on. i'm so ready to see the dr. on monday! and ready for relief.
mom, i'm feeling like i'm floundering at times. i could use some of your encouragement....or swift kick in the hind side, which ever you would find most fitting. :) i need you to tell me i'm gonna be ok.
i can't seem to get the morning of your surgery out of my mind. you looked very pretty. i don't think i told you that. but you did. ....as always. you were so afraid....i could see it in your eyes and hear it in your voice. it was different than any other time. i knew it and felt it too....but didn't want you to be afraid, or worried.
anyway, just thought i'd call you. i miss hearing your voice and was blessed to watch the video of you the other night. what a comfort. so anyway, feel free to visit me whenever. until then...i love & miss you mom.
mom, i'm feeling like i'm floundering at times. i could use some of your encouragement....or swift kick in the hind side, which ever you would find most fitting. :) i need you to tell me i'm gonna be ok.
i can't seem to get the morning of your surgery out of my mind. you looked very pretty. i don't think i told you that. but you did. ....as always. you were so afraid....i could see it in your eyes and hear it in your voice. it was different than any other time. i knew it and felt it too....but didn't want you to be afraid, or worried.
anyway, just thought i'd call you. i miss hearing your voice and was blessed to watch the video of you the other night. what a comfort. so anyway, feel free to visit me whenever. until then...i love & miss you mom.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
there are regrets and then there are Regrets.
regrets to me are those choices that i've made that have directly impacted me. the ones i've learned from. i regret them in the sense that they were bad choices but i don't regret how they've made me who i am.
Regrets are those choices, decisions i've made that have directly impacted someone i love dearly....my kids or husband. i have far more re: my kiddo's than i do the husband. being a wife is far easier than being a mom.
with that said i can't alter the past ....thus i will pray and pray some more.
regrets to me are those choices that i've made that have directly impacted me. the ones i've learned from. i regret them in the sense that they were bad choices but i don't regret how they've made me who i am.
Regrets are those choices, decisions i've made that have directly impacted someone i love dearly....my kids or husband. i have far more re: my kiddo's than i do the husband. being a wife is far easier than being a mom.
with that said i can't alter the past ....thus i will pray and pray some more.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
if you know me at all you know i'm rather social. with that said there are also those times that i just enjoy being alone or just chilling with my family. well super bowl sunday was one of those days for me. andy and i are typically at a party or having a party of our own. but not this year.
this year we gathered as a family. each of us in our own claimed space in the family room with the game on the big screen....and our electronics placed in a comfortable manner on our laps and we connected with those not with us. it was actually kinda nice.
you see i was able to enjoy the game with out vocalized chit chat and random conversations. instead i enjoyed many intentional conversations via social networking! i enjoyed my own facebook super bowl party! friends from illinois, colorado, ohio, as well as other states & all parts of indiana all attended my fb super bowl party. it was almost perfect. :) So, to those who joined me in my little cyber party! i enjoyed your company! ....y'all come back now, y'hear!
again, it's the little things!
this year we gathered as a family. each of us in our own claimed space in the family room with the game on the big screen....and our electronics placed in a comfortable manner on our laps and we connected with those not with us. it was actually kinda nice.
you see i was able to enjoy the game with out vocalized chit chat and random conversations. instead i enjoyed many intentional conversations via social networking! i enjoyed my own facebook super bowl party! friends from illinois, colorado, ohio, as well as other states & all parts of indiana all attended my fb super bowl party. it was almost perfect. :) So, to those who joined me in my little cyber party! i enjoyed your company! ....y'all come back now, y'hear!
again, it's the little things!
Saturday, February 2, 2013
for the record....
i was reminiscing today thinking back to my HS years. and it dawned on me, that's where it all started
high school. started what you ask? well, started calling things as i saw them. so yeah, been at it for years. perhaps it started even earlier, jr high even i'm not really sure i just know that i've had a knack for seeing things in their true light. and when i say things i probably mean people for who they are. for whatever the reason, it's as though i see through them.
my earliest recollection of this occurring is with my parents. i think i was the only one not shocked when the divorce occurred. what i was shocked about, or perhaps the best description of what i felt was disappointment, was the manner in which the end of the marriage came to be. those details brought out the skeptic in me with regard to people. you see lesson number one was this...people, even those who are suppose to love you unconditionally can: lie, cheat, sneak, lie, fake it, lie, sneak, all the while allowing you, and others believe otherwise. LESSON: if the very people who brought you into this world will hurt you and be dishonest, don't be surprised if/when others do the same. LESSON: outward image must be maintained as long as possible.
*i too lied and put up fronts. it's what i knew. for the truths were ugly.
senior year, feeling all full of my senior, i'm about to graduate and know far more than you self I embarked on the beginning stages of calling it as i see it. and ....for the record i started with the principal. why? well, i bore witness to him telling a lie. one story to the adults and a completely different story to the student body. and so it began.
some years later i returned to my Alma mater and little had changed. only this time teachers spoke up and out appalled at the lies and cover ups and feeling like they were with out a voice so i spoke up. and again i witnessed the same principal speak a hurtful untruth, telling a young man he wasn't to speak and wasn't worth hearing as nobody wanted to hear anything he had to say...i was incensed! to say the least. LESSON: people lie. LESSON: people don't have to be accepting of those lies.
*it is now that it occurs to me that i don't much care for liars, cheaters, and certainly not at the expense of kids.
and here we are, in the more recent past i've encountered more of the same and have approached it in the only manner i'm comfortable with. sadly it too has often been at the expense of the child. LESSON: liars don't like being called out. LESSON: if you're not forthwith, you tend to be deceptive. LESSON: one has little fear in a creative lie and much to fear in an ugly truth.
*i'm not one to look the other way, take one for the team, buy into mans greater good...
so, i am what i am and only expect such from others. no airs, pretense, or falsehoods....rather an open book. i question most everything, and most everyone until i feel comfortable. i trust and respect from the get go, but should it be lost or tampered with then i'm done. i don't chase after anything. appreciate where i am in life and those who are with me as well as those who are not. i love unconditionally. and for those i don't like .... i insist that i, at any given time, can tell you 3 kind things about them.
*i'm not perfect, better than anyone or less than another. i'm where i'm suppose to be and daily working to be better at being me....the me God intended me to be.
so odds are ..... if there's an elephant in the room and you don't seem to notice i'll point it out. it's just who i am. no apologies...
i was reminiscing today thinking back to my HS years. and it dawned on me, that's where it all started
high school. started what you ask? well, started calling things as i saw them. so yeah, been at it for years. perhaps it started even earlier, jr high even i'm not really sure i just know that i've had a knack for seeing things in their true light. and when i say things i probably mean people for who they are. for whatever the reason, it's as though i see through them.
my earliest recollection of this occurring is with my parents. i think i was the only one not shocked when the divorce occurred. what i was shocked about, or perhaps the best description of what i felt was disappointment, was the manner in which the end of the marriage came to be. those details brought out the skeptic in me with regard to people. you see lesson number one was this...people, even those who are suppose to love you unconditionally can: lie, cheat, sneak, lie, fake it, lie, sneak, all the while allowing you, and others believe otherwise. LESSON: if the very people who brought you into this world will hurt you and be dishonest, don't be surprised if/when others do the same. LESSON: outward image must be maintained as long as possible.
*i too lied and put up fronts. it's what i knew. for the truths were ugly.
senior year, feeling all full of my senior, i'm about to graduate and know far more than you self I embarked on the beginning stages of calling it as i see it. and ....for the record i started with the principal. why? well, i bore witness to him telling a lie. one story to the adults and a completely different story to the student body. and so it began.
some years later i returned to my Alma mater and little had changed. only this time teachers spoke up and out appalled at the lies and cover ups and feeling like they were with out a voice so i spoke up. and again i witnessed the same principal speak a hurtful untruth, telling a young man he wasn't to speak and wasn't worth hearing as nobody wanted to hear anything he had to say...i was incensed! to say the least. LESSON: people lie. LESSON: people don't have to be accepting of those lies.
*it is now that it occurs to me that i don't much care for liars, cheaters, and certainly not at the expense of kids.
and here we are, in the more recent past i've encountered more of the same and have approached it in the only manner i'm comfortable with. sadly it too has often been at the expense of the child. LESSON: liars don't like being called out. LESSON: if you're not forthwith, you tend to be deceptive. LESSON: one has little fear in a creative lie and much to fear in an ugly truth.
*i'm not one to look the other way, take one for the team, buy into mans greater good...
so, i am what i am and only expect such from others. no airs, pretense, or falsehoods....rather an open book. i question most everything, and most everyone until i feel comfortable. i trust and respect from the get go, but should it be lost or tampered with then i'm done. i don't chase after anything. appreciate where i am in life and those who are with me as well as those who are not. i love unconditionally. and for those i don't like .... i insist that i, at any given time, can tell you 3 kind things about them.
*i'm not perfect, better than anyone or less than another. i'm where i'm suppose to be and daily working to be better at being me....the me God intended me to be.
so odds are ..... if there's an elephant in the room and you don't seem to notice i'll point it out. it's just who i am. no apologies...
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
another day older....
what a blessing! right?
i know there are aches and pains that are associated with aging and there are times with they can be so intense that we lose sight of the everyday blessings.
just one reason why i love social media...i am reminded of all the blessings that have touched my life. having had what seems like 1001 jobs, lived in a few different areas/communities, been involved in a variety of activities, social groups and churches, i've encountered quite few people....friends, acquaintances. and because life comes at each of us in a different manner it would be so easy to be like two ships that pass in the night never to meet again.
instead, i'm blessed to see and be in touch with so many people. as i get older i've enjoyed seeing former students become parents, friends become grandparents, college graduations, mission trips, and leisure trips. i've had to opportunity to pray for and with folks who requested or not expressed a need/care/concern. not to mention the celebrations. we've talked books, recipes, restaurants, movies etc... shared tips, thoughts, and laughs.
wow what a joy! what a joy to get older! what a joy to have another day to live! take a moment and reflect on you joys, your blessings! and here's to getting older! enjoy the ride!
oh & one more thing.... the neck, doesn't lie! :P embrace every wrinkle but don't let it define you!
what a blessing! right?
i know there are aches and pains that are associated with aging and there are times with they can be so intense that we lose sight of the everyday blessings.
just one reason why i love social media...i am reminded of all the blessings that have touched my life. having had what seems like 1001 jobs, lived in a few different areas/communities, been involved in a variety of activities, social groups and churches, i've encountered quite few people....friends, acquaintances. and because life comes at each of us in a different manner it would be so easy to be like two ships that pass in the night never to meet again.
instead, i'm blessed to see and be in touch with so many people. as i get older i've enjoyed seeing former students become parents, friends become grandparents, college graduations, mission trips, and leisure trips. i've had to opportunity to pray for and with folks who requested or not expressed a need/care/concern. not to mention the celebrations. we've talked books, recipes, restaurants, movies etc... shared tips, thoughts, and laughs.
wow what a joy! what a joy to get older! what a joy to have another day to live! take a moment and reflect on you joys, your blessings! and here's to getting older! enjoy the ride!
oh & one more thing.... the neck, doesn't lie! :P embrace every wrinkle but don't let it define you!
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
i'm right! i'm right! i'm right! O CRAP! I'm right!.....
ever had that feeling?
a while back a change of events took place that directly involved my daughter and her extra curricular activity of choice. i was blown away by what had transpired and left shaking my head. what i was not, was left speechless. (that would probably take a cataclysmic event for that to happen) i was engaged in many conversations where there occurred concerns, speculation, rants, problem solving for problems that would undoubtedly come our way. there were convos with parents, ad's, and other folks in the community. perhaps an error on my part, as perceived by others would've been my lack of communication with the person at the helm, leading the way.
i gotta be honest i struggled with the placement. and did so based on my own experiences with this person as a fellow parent. for during her time as just a parent she remarked often about how she'd handle things, her take on some of the other participants and their parents, former persons in charge, etc... it's safe to say there was an agenda! a hefty one at that. WARNING WARNING WARNING!
and here we are....some time later....& O CRAP!
sad really! many young folk have had life lessons and experiences that some adults haven't even had to deal with yet. there's been a heavy dose of disappointment on many levels that has involved families as well as participants. and what was once a top-notch program is no more. (ohhowthemightyhavefallen)
i really really REALLY! wish i as wrong....
ever had that feeling?
a while back a change of events took place that directly involved my daughter and her extra curricular activity of choice. i was blown away by what had transpired and left shaking my head. what i was not, was left speechless. (that would probably take a cataclysmic event for that to happen) i was engaged in many conversations where there occurred concerns, speculation, rants, problem solving for problems that would undoubtedly come our way. there were convos with parents, ad's, and other folks in the community. perhaps an error on my part, as perceived by others would've been my lack of communication with the person at the helm, leading the way.
i gotta be honest i struggled with the placement. and did so based on my own experiences with this person as a fellow parent. for during her time as just a parent she remarked often about how she'd handle things, her take on some of the other participants and their parents, former persons in charge, etc... it's safe to say there was an agenda! a hefty one at that. WARNING WARNING WARNING!
and here we are....some time later....& O CRAP!
sad really! many young folk have had life lessons and experiences that some adults haven't even had to deal with yet. there's been a heavy dose of disappointment on many levels that has involved families as well as participants. and what was once a top-notch program is no more. (ohhowthemightyhavefallen)
i really really REALLY! wish i as wrong....
Monday, January 21, 2013
so a week ago i received a stern warning/threat from a someone via fb on his wife's account, regarding a comment i made, in light, on a status of a friend who doesn't live in our community. my comment was vague and for those who know me would've known the following 1) it's nothing i wouldn't say to the 'powers that be' 2) i'm a jokester....9/10 times. ANY way, as i thought about the incident all i could think about is why? why would he bother? what was gonna be my punishment? what was i to be "careful" of exactly....or what? friday school? iss (eek)? my child kept from something s/he loves? seriously based on past experiences i'm left to wonder just how the foot shall come down. in addition and more puzzling to me i was left wondering what the 'fear' of me was or was based on. although outspoken and of my own mind i 1) hate conflict and avoid it and confrontations at all cost 2) can not recall even one time when in public* that i've been rude to another and/or confrontational to them. (*by public i mean live in person....not fb or blog - as those are locations i opt to speak my mind, state my opinions and what not. like a radio/tv, if you don't like what i say you don't have to tune in. moreover - 99.9% of my fb status' are restricted to my fb friends only)
so, back to my original pondering....where's the scary? is it that my opinions might be shared by others? is it that my take is a truth, and perhaps an ugly one? is it that i challenge that which doesn't make sense? is it that i tend to call a spade a spade and am not blind to the elephant in the room? i get why some of those qualities might not be to your liking or comprise someone you want to hang around with, especially if you cannot persuade them to do your bidding or just go along with what ever and turn the other cheek when need be. and if that's the case fine....we'll skip coffee & fellowship. but seriously is it necessary to threaten/warn?
for the most part i'd describe myself as pretty laid back, easy going, accepting and tolerant....even of persons who i'd consider to be boobs at best. my opinion of some doesn't comprise my opinion of the whole - that would be dumb.
so yeah....i'm not good at pretending, but i'd say i'm generally kind. but some people just seem to be mean and malicious. whew, that's gotta be exhausting. we're all a work in progress....it'll be interesting to see in what manner we continue to do so.
so, back to my original pondering....where's the scary? is it that my opinions might be shared by others? is it that my take is a truth, and perhaps an ugly one? is it that i challenge that which doesn't make sense? is it that i tend to call a spade a spade and am not blind to the elephant in the room? i get why some of those qualities might not be to your liking or comprise someone you want to hang around with, especially if you cannot persuade them to do your bidding or just go along with what ever and turn the other cheek when need be. and if that's the case fine....we'll skip coffee & fellowship. but seriously is it necessary to threaten/warn?
for the most part i'd describe myself as pretty laid back, easy going, accepting and tolerant....even of persons who i'd consider to be boobs at best. my opinion of some doesn't comprise my opinion of the whole - that would be dumb.
so yeah....i'm not good at pretending, but i'd say i'm generally kind. but some people just seem to be mean and malicious. whew, that's gotta be exhausting. we're all a work in progress....it'll be interesting to see in what manner we continue to do so.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
So do you ever really give much thought to 'how you're doing?'?
Take a minute and think about it...
....
....
....
What exactly did you consider? Your job? Family? Relationships? Finances? Emotional well-being? Physical well-being?
Did you consider how you're doing with YOU?
I've seemed to be very reflective lately on just how I'm doing. And I think I, like our pastor mentioned a couple of weeks ago...."I'm not perfect but I'm a lot better than I used to be!" I'll chalk up all the reflection to a few things...1) the passing of my mother 2) reconnecting with so many different people from different stages of my life via social networks 3) age and maturity. I have had so many voices and words replay in my head and some made me smile while others caused me to pause and give thought and consideration to what was said....said about me. I've thought about who I thought I was, who I think I am and who I want to be. And then I've had to rethink it all and question weather or not it is at all in line with who God wants me to be. And there it is....the bottom line.
You see, I cannot define me, nor can my family, friends, social status, church, or this world. I'm defined by God. I'm an unfinished set of works and I hope I'm improving in such a manner that I am becoming better than I was and more and more pleasing to Him. For pleasing Him is really all that matters.
There are so many elements of ME that I want to improve upon and I feel that I'll get that accomplished. It is for certain a process.
So how are YOU doing?
Take a minute and think about it...
....
....
....
What exactly did you consider? Your job? Family? Relationships? Finances? Emotional well-being? Physical well-being?
Did you consider how you're doing with YOU?
I've seemed to be very reflective lately on just how I'm doing. And I think I, like our pastor mentioned a couple of weeks ago...."I'm not perfect but I'm a lot better than I used to be!" I'll chalk up all the reflection to a few things...1) the passing of my mother 2) reconnecting with so many different people from different stages of my life via social networks 3) age and maturity. I have had so many voices and words replay in my head and some made me smile while others caused me to pause and give thought and consideration to what was said....said about me. I've thought about who I thought I was, who I think I am and who I want to be. And then I've had to rethink it all and question weather or not it is at all in line with who God wants me to be. And there it is....the bottom line.
You see, I cannot define me, nor can my family, friends, social status, church, or this world. I'm defined by God. I'm an unfinished set of works and I hope I'm improving in such a manner that I am becoming better than I was and more and more pleasing to Him. For pleasing Him is really all that matters.
There are so many elements of ME that I want to improve upon and I feel that I'll get that accomplished. It is for certain a process.
So how are YOU doing?
well, after having been gone a few days this week my favorite fella came home Friday evening and we had the privileged of having a date night. we took in Silver Linings Playbook and we both really enjoyed the movie. quirky yet interesting it moved right along and i really enjoyed the plot and the characters. i tried so hard to make it through the movie with out any popcorn....i failed! i swear that stuff is crack! lol i only made it through the last trailer. but hey, what's a movie without the pop corn? it really adds to the ambiance!
saturday brought about quite a full day! senior day and final end of year swim meet & banquet, eye appointment, mani-kat, pedi-me, and then evening out with the supper club. it was our first outing of the new year. destination of choice was Day & Night located in Peru. what a nice atmosphere and setting for our area. nicely decorated, beautiful bar and good selection of menu items set the tone for a great dining experience. hope to return on a tuesday evening sometime, as tuesday's are Cole Porter night which features live entertainment & 1/2 price martini's (although i've never had a martini). we rounded out the evening back at Paul & Jessicas for dessert! Rachel, Jake & Chelsea made the yummiest of cake balls and pretzel bites.
today is sunday....the kids will be leaving soon for winter jam. they'll be gone all day and i'm certain they'll be filled with the spirit. not sure what today will hold for andy & i. i'm hoping we will take to the road and take in some local fare. without a doubt he'll want to get over to amboy to tie up some more loose ends.
saturday brought about quite a full day! senior day and final end of year swim meet & banquet, eye appointment, mani-kat, pedi-me, and then evening out with the supper club. it was our first outing of the new year. destination of choice was Day & Night located in Peru. what a nice atmosphere and setting for our area. nicely decorated, beautiful bar and good selection of menu items set the tone for a great dining experience. hope to return on a tuesday evening sometime, as tuesday's are Cole Porter night which features live entertainment & 1/2 price martini's (although i've never had a martini). we rounded out the evening back at Paul & Jessicas for dessert! Rachel, Jake & Chelsea made the yummiest of cake balls and pretzel bites.
today is sunday....the kids will be leaving soon for winter jam. they'll be gone all day and i'm certain they'll be filled with the spirit. not sure what today will hold for andy & i. i'm hoping we will take to the road and take in some local fare. without a doubt he'll want to get over to amboy to tie up some more loose ends.
