LIFE IS LESSONS LEARNED

Day #7 w/out a Real Cig

2012-01-15T13:56:00.000-06:00

Ummm, not sure how I'm feeling. All over the place would be a good description. I have not had a real cig in 7 days so my body has not had all the yuck except for the nicotine (taking in much less, though) So now, just need to step down the nicotine levels until I am completely off of the Cig2O. I am not going to sit here and tell you it is easy. It's not. With that being said, it has been much better than the last time I tried.

Tomorrow, hubby and I will be back on the treadmill, etc. I hope to be able to push the water to help flush the rest of these toxins. I so want to feel better and not so tired.

One day at a time… I CAN DO THIS

LESSON LEARNED: Take one day at a time and you can accomplish anything… even the most difficult challenges.

GALLERY OF QUILTS

2012-01-08T14:03:00.001-06:00

I had been pondering an idea for quite some time and decided to give it a go. I have a passion for beautiful quilts and wanted to give people the opportunity to showcase their works of art for FREE. No hidden strings attached! Most blogs and forums I find to be cluttered. I have created a clean format so one's eyes can flow straight to the beauty without all the extra chaos. The quilts will be listed under their corresponding pattern. GALLERY OF QUILTS Click "join this site" and submit your photos/info to galleryofquilts@gmail.com so I can resize, etc. It's that easy!

Don't forget to join our forum… The link is directly in the blog. It is also in a nice format to where threads shouldn't get lost. They will also be organized into groups by pattern type. This will make it easy to go straight to your interest.

Look forward to hearing from you all!

LESSON LEARNED: Share your passion freely!

NUMBERS

2012-01-03T10:39:00.003-06:00

Numbers 1 The First Census of Israel
Numbers 2 The Tribes and Leaders by Armies
Numbers 3 The Sons of Aaron
The Levites Serve in the Tabernacle (Numbers 3:5)
Census of the Levites Commanded (Numbers 3:14)
Levites Dedicated Instead of the Firstborn (Numbers 3:40)
Numbers 4 Duties of the Sons of Kohath
Duties of the Sons of Gershon (Numbers 4:21)
Duties of the Sons of Merari (Numbers 4:29)
Census of the Levites (Numbers 4:34)
Numbers 5 Ceremonially Unclean Persons Isolated
Confession and Restitution (Numbers 5:5)
Concerning Unfaithful Wives (Numbers 5:11)
Numbers 6 The Law of the Nazirite
The Priestly Blessing (Numbers 6:22)
Numbers 7 Offerings of the Leaders
Numbers 8 Arrangement of the Lamps
Cleansing and Dedication of the Levites (Numbers 8:5)
Numbers 9 The Second Passover
The Cloud and the Fire (Numbers 9:15)
Numbers 10 Two Silver Trumpets
Departure From Sinai (Numbers 10:11)
Numbers 11 The People Complain
The Seventy Elders (Numbers 11:16)
The Lord Sends Quail (Numbers 11:31)
Numbers 12 Dissension of Aaron and Miriam
Numbers 13 Spies Sent Into Canaan
Numbers 14 Israel Refuses to Enter Canaan
Moses Intercedes for the People (Numbers 14:11)
Death Sentence on the Rebels (Numbers 14:26)
A Futile Invasion Attempt (Numbers 14:39)
Numbers 15 Laws of Grain and Drink Offerings
Laws Concerning Unintentional Sin (Numbers 15:22)
Laws Concerning Presumptuous Sin (Numbers 15:30)
Penalty for Violating the Sabbath (Numbers 15:32)
Tassels on Garments (Numbers 15:37)
Numbers 16 Rebellion Against Moses and Aaron
Complaints of the People (Numbers 16:41)
Numbers 17 Tbe Budding of Aarons Rod
Numbers 18 Duties of Priests and Levites
Offerings for Support of the Priests (Numbers 18:8)
Tithes for Support of the Levites (Numbers 18:21)
The Tithe of the Levites (Numbers 18:25)
Numbers 19 Laws of Purification
Numbers 20 Moses Error at Kadesh
Passage Through Edom Refused (Numbers 20:14)
Death of Aaron (Numbers 20:22)
Numbers 21 Canaanites Defeated at Hormah
The Bronze Serpent (Numbers 21:4)
From Mount Hor to Moab (Numbers 21:10)
King Sihon Defeated (Numbers 21:21)
King Og Defeated (Numbers 21:33)
Numbers 22 Balak Sends for Balaam
Balaam, the Donkey, and the Angel (Numbers 22:22)
Balaams First Prophecy (Numbers 22:41)
Numbers 23 Balaams Second Prophecy (Numbers 23:13)
Balaams Third Prophecy (Numbers 23:27)
Numbers 24 Balaams Fourth Prophecy (Numbers 24:15)
Numbers 25 Israels Harlotry in Moab
Numbers 26 The Second Census of Israel
Numbers 27 Inheritance Laws
Joshua the Next Leader of Israel (Numbers 27:12)
Numbers 28 Daily Offerings
Sabbath Offerings (Numbers 28:9)
Monthly Offerings (Numbers 28:11)
Offerings at Passover (Numbers 28:16)
Offerings at the Feast of Weeks (Numbers 28:26)
Numbers 29 Offerings at the Feast of Trumpets
Offerings on the Day of Atonement (Numbers 29:7)
Offerings at the Feast of Tabernacles (Numbers 29:12)
Numbers 30 The Law Concerning Vows
Numbers 31 Vengeance on the Midianites
Return from the War (Numbers 31:12)
Division of the Plunder (Numbers 31:25)
Numbers 32 The Tribes Settling East of the Jordan
Numbers 33 Israels Journey from Egypt Reviewed
Numbers 34 The Appointed Boundaries of Canaan
The Leaders Appointed to Divide the Land (Numbers 34:16)
Numbers 35 Cities for the Levites
Cities of Refuge (Numbers 35:9)
Numbers 36 Marriage of Female Heirs

SOURCE: Via YouVersion

A Dismayed Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T14:25:00.001-06:00

We had my hubby's brother, sister-n-law, two small nephews (2.5 and 6 months), and mother here in addition to our 5 boys (7, 12, 14, 15, 19). A house full indeed! Needless to say, I am plum exhausted. This didn't turn out to be the Christmas I had hoped to create. Stress overload, everyone being sick with a cold, a broken oven, and missing my parents (RIP) tremendously were the culprits to my "scroogeness"

I normally try to create the whole dinner spread with all of the trimmings. This year, it consisted of ham out of a can, stuffing out of a box, vegetable out of a can, candied yams, minus rolls or any dessert. They were grateful for the meal I did serve them. As exhausted as I was, I didn't feel up to making the pie crust nor the pies the night before. When I felt up to it on Christmas day, my oven decided not to cooperate, so I didn't make any pies. It is temperamental; if it quits working, usually a few hours later, it will work again. No rolls to be found in any store for two weeks, I attempted to make homemade dinner rolls which turned into a disaster. First mishap was the wrong part in the wrong bread machine, so had to dump out and put back into the machine. By the time the dough was ready, my oven still wasn't working and the dough fell. My hubby was trying to lighten my emotions by playing with the dough before I tossed it. He managed to make me smile.

My problems sleeping added to all of the other stress did a number on my mood. The little things started to irritate me. For example, if you spill something in my microwave, clean it up. All the cooking I have been doing… help clean up at least. I realize her hands were full tending to her kids, but there were plenty of people to help with them so she could do her part. The least she could do was pick up her & her son's plates when they were done eating and take them to the sink. My hubby and my mother-n-law, as sick as they were, at least offered to help but I would not accept because they were sick.

Everyone has left so today is rest day for the most part. Tomorrow will be the beginning of putting up the Christmas decorations/tree and cleaning the house. We need to get started stripping the kitchen cabinets before I get my new oven next week.

LESSON LEARNED: Plan everything ahead. Especially your meals if you are expecting company. If I hadn't done this, it would have been much worse.

CROCHET: Therapeutic Flowers Throw

2011-12-21T20:28:00.001-06:00

The inspiration for this project was from some flowers I had given to my momma. She now is singing with the angels (2/2/2010). I lost my daddy 5 months prior. Crocheting these flowers has been part of my healing process.

PATTERN INTERPRETATION
Mental Chaos: Multicolor
Numbness: Picots
Avoidance: Green Treble
Emotional Pieces: Motifs
Attempting to put myself back together: Chain connecting motifs.

I wish I could sit here and tell you that once completed, that it helped. They say that it gets easier with time. In my case, this has not happened.

LESSON LEARNED: Be the son/daughter that you should all of the time. Say the things that need to be said, don't say the things that shouldn't be said, be there when they need you the most. Never be too busy for your parents. They will not be there forever. You will have the guilt to live with for the rest of your life if you do not do these things. Live your life to have no regrets.

PLASTIC CANVAS: Deer

2011-12-21T19:47:00.003-06:00

This is another one of my UFO (unfinished objects) that I had completed. Like many others, this took me a few years to finally finish. Life just always seems to get in the way. Once done, I ordered the camouflage fabric for the background. Then it was time to search for a frame. Wow, did I ever get educated. I ended up having to have it custom made due to its size. I caved and paid $90 for that frame! Isn't that insane?! It was made for my eldest son who is 19 yrs of age. I gave it to him last year. He didn't seem too thrilled. I suppose its due to it took me forever to finally get it done. Needless to say, it now sits in my 15 yr old son's room who has yet to hang it up. Maybe not to offend his oldest brother, who knows. I have even had thoughts of selling it due to everyone's lack of interest in it. Problem is, I would never be able to get back the amount of money I have invested.

LESSON LEARNED: When your kids know you are making something for them, try to make sure it is done in a timely manner. This way, they won't feel like it is unimportant to you. They do not understand the concept of life as you do.

LATCH HOOK: Teddy Bear

2011-11-16T08:14:00.007-06:00

Does this one ever have a story! I had started it many years ago and was almost half way through it… then I got a puppy. Never under estimate pups. Just when you think you have it all moved to where there is no way he can get into it…. yes, he can. He had the rug canvas in shreds and my yarn pieces (thousands) everywhere! Boredom is not good for them, but somebody had to go make a living. I managed to salvage it and tucked it away to be untouched for about 4 years.

Does everyone remember the old saying, "everything happens for a reason"? Well, this project was intended for the boss man whose wife was expecting. He wasn't the one I worked directly under on a daily basis, but the one who signed my checks. I also had to work under him at times. Let's just say that when I resigned, I gave a 30 day notice out of respect for my direct boss and not the one the gift was intended for.

Four years later, I pulled it back out of the closet. I just do not like unfinished projects; part of my slight OCD, I suppose. All finished and needed to clean it being it had been through so much. They make directions for a reason! They are intended to be read and followed! My thinking, "delicate wash, cold water, will toss in the dryer for a few minutes." When it says "hand wash, air dry".. they mean just that! Hence, the right side raveled really bad, yarn pieces came out, etc. A little girl was here at the time I thought I was being clever. She was non caring about the mishap as she still kept admiring it. I ended up giving it to the mother hoping she could salvage what remained by making a pillow out of it somehow.

LESSON LEARNED: Child and pup proof your home thoroughly especially when dealing with projects. Read and follow directions. Someone has a job actually writing those things out for you.

Make their job meaningful, lol.

NEW WASHER AND DRYER

2011-11-15T21:06:00.008-06:00

I feel like it's Christmas already! The new washer & dryer arrived this evening! I normally am not one to gloat or what have you, but I just had to share! I have a large family which means lots of laundry. My old set has been on the fritz for months. The repairman had been out here literally 8 times. He practically had rebuilt my washer, but yet it still wasn't fixed. I was just about beyond patience level by that point.

With this being said, upon re-inspection, I have found a big dent on the side of the dryer as well as TONS of major scratches. This is due to the deliver people's incompetence. They did not putting blankets over them while transporting and installing. Needless to say, I will not be paying a fortune for something that is damaged.

LESSON LEARNED: Patience is a virtue although extremely difficult at times!

QUILT: Cathedral Window Layout

2011-10-10T10:50:00.004-05:00

I have gotten an overwhelming response to the photo I had posted on the QUILTING BOARD that I wanted to share with all of my readers. In this photo, there are 16 blocks. I have been working in 4-block sections for ease of handling. To complete a King size quilt will take a total of 144 blocks (36 4-block units). I am currently have 24 blocks completed.

If I did this entirely with blue print windows, it tends to be hard on my eyes: too busy. Therefore, I have decided to break it up and add muslin fabric to some of the windows. I will be sure to keep everyone posted on my progress!

EYE EVAL RESULTS

2011-09-28T16:35:00.000-05:00

I did not get the answers I would of liked, but I am still grateful for the vision I do have. Unfortunately, this dr. contradicted a couple of things that previous doctors had diagnosed me with. I do not have macular degenerative disease. He also did not address my depth perception issues, etc. Yet, his credentials, as well as his colleagues', are impeccable. To make a long story short, when I was born, I had what you call "dancing eyes" which is where my eyes moved a lot involuntarily. As I got older, they stopped moving like that. You can barely tell it now. He said when they corrected itself, the vision I was at at that time is where it stayed. Therefore, I currently have 20/80 vision with glasses. I do have a slight astigmatism. He stated that all the surgery would do is get me to the point I am now with glasses and not any better than that. I asked if then could glasses be applied to get it even better and he said no.

LESSON LEARNED: Be grateful for the abilities you do have and do not take them for granted. There are so many others who are less fortunate.

POSSIBLE EYE SURGERY

2011-09-26T19:23:00.003-05:00

At age 38, the time has come to check into the possibility of fixing my eyesight problem. All my life I have had vision difficulties. Currently my diagnoses are: 20/80 corrected, extreme sensitivity to light, astigmatism, depth perception issues, and macular degenerative disease. I was unable to renew my driver's license a couple of years ago, but was about time to lay my keys down anyway. My limitations tend to get upsetting when my boys are wanting me to do things with them that would require me to be in the sunlight or spending time as a family outside. I wear dark prescription sunglasses, but it's still not enough. Everyone has always been tolerant and understanding. I have an amazing family! My husband has even been getting me different things to aide in my sewing endeavors.

Wednesday, Sept 28, I have an appointment at Lehmann Eye Center in Nacogdoches, TX. It is about an hour and a half from me. Our oldest son also goes to college in that town, so we plan to meet up for lunch after my evaluation. I am trying not to get my hopes up being I was told 15 years ago that nothing could be done. Technology has evolved since, so we will see.

LESSON LEARNED: Never let your disabilities hold you back.

EMPTY NEST SYNDROME

2011-08-25T10:11:00.002-05:00

It is almost time for my oldest to leave for College. He has to sign in his dorm this weekend. Only 2 hours away but will still be difficult for me. I have to admit, I am under extreme pressure through this whole college process. We have stressed the importance of working because not everything is going to be handed to him. With that being said, he has been working long hours six days a week plus with the fire department when he was off. They have been extremely busy with a vast number of fires in our area. This left me to do the paperwork end of things like scholarship applications, making sure he applied for them and not miss his deadlines for many different things for college. The financial aid process was also stressful because our situation is complicated.
We have attempted to teach him the importance of budgeting his money with no success. We are happy to help when we can but what if we weren't able to? We spent quite a bit on the things needed for his dorm and will be spending a large amount getting his brakes fixed on his truck for him. What would he had done if we hadn't had the funds? He has a set amount from his financial aid to spend on gas. I sure hope he spends it wisely. Unfortunately, it has come to the point that he is fixing to have to learn the hard way. He is the type to stress easily and we want to make sure the stress level is low as he starts college, but he has to learn.
He also has been dating this young lady for about 8 months or so. I really like her, in fact, she is the ONLY one I have ever liked. With that being said, I was really hurt during his prepping for senior prom. It was as if her mother flat "took over" so to speak. I felt robbed of sharing that experience with him. Now things seem to have repeated itself. He basically let me know that her and her mother plan to follow us up there when we go with him to move into his dorm. One would think this should be a family event. He says it's because she doesn't know her way in the town. I'm sorry, but why can't they meet him outside of the town the next day and he can spend the whole day with them. I feel like they are intruding on what should be a special time between a son and his family. Yes, I know I am sounding very selfish. My husband thinks I should just let it go. He adds that if she ends up being "the one" for him, we don't want to start alienating, etc. I see the point, but at the same time, I feel they all should have more respect for my feelings.
After all the money we spent on him last night, we haven't even received a "thank you". It's as if he expects it or feels that it's our job to do that as his parents. This type of behavior was the whole reason we stopped fitting the major gas bill and told him to get a job. One would think he would of learned the lesson. My daddy did more than most to help me but I was always very quick to tell and show him how much it was appreciated. I hate to make it sound like it's all about money, but I don't want to be used and took advantage of either. He has got to learn that not everything in life is a "hand out"
Right now he is in there on hold with the school and not too happy with me. He is complaining of how long he is still holding. Now he knows what I deal with all of the time trying to take care of these things for him. He has to learn how to do for himself. Not everyone is fortunate to have their mother and even those who do may not have the luxury of her willingness to help.
As I am writing this, things have hit the fan. I was thinking I had to apply for a book loan so I had him call his girlfriend to get their address. The plan was to use her dad as a reference. She about bit his head off. That was it! I flat let him know what I thought about the whole situation of her and her mother intruding. He isn't too happy with me and will end up having to take the heat from her. I am tired of stepping aside for everyone else and what they want. I'm unsure of who's idea it was for her to come with us that day, but if it was hers, he should have enough respect for me to have stood up to her about it to begin with.
I suppose I may be out of line with some of this. My emotions have been a total train wreck complete with mood swings that change as often as the wind. He actually did tell me thank you when I gave him the money to get his brakes fixed. That still doesn't excuse some of the rest.

LESSON LEARNED: Don't do EVERYTHING for them. Make them accept responsibility for the things that need to be done. Teach them to the best of your ability that nothing in life is a "hand out"and the importance of budgeting their money.

LITTLE BOY WHO CRIED WOLF

2011-07-27T22:25:00.001-05:00

I'm sure we all remember this story. Seems the moral of that story doesn't only pertain to little ones. We are having the same issue with our 14 yr. old. He is always complaining about some kind of ailment. He thinks he needs to go to the Dr. about the smallest of things. He gets plenty of attention, so not sure what the deal is It gets even worse when the grandmother is around who is a retired RN. I'm not going to run my kids to the dr. for something I can take care of at home. Don't get me wrong, if I can't take care of it, I have no problem taking him in. I have put the complaints to the test & I have always been right so far. If I don't say much about it, the next day, all is fine with him. The latest is, "I need to go to the Dr., I have Swimmer's Ear" Yet, he still feels like hanging out with his friend for 2 days straight now, running the roads. If he had swimmer's ear, he would be in so much pain, he wouldn't want to move off of the couch. Especially when he can't handle pain of any kind. He even puts his complaints/ailments on Facebook. So to make him feel better, I have been giving him ibuprofen & using peroxide. He has been mad because I haven't made a big deal over it & took him to the dr. So I explained to him about the little boy who cried wolf. I have tried hinting around in a picking manner trying to get this issue resolved but have had no success as of yet.

LESSON LEARNED: If you find yourself in this situation, reiterate the moral of the story of "The Little Boy Who Cried Wolf" Hopefully, it will eventually detour this type of attention seeking behavior.

"NO" MEANS "NO"

2011-07-27T22:06:00.001-05:00

I'm sure we have all dealt with when one parent tells the child "no", they sneak off to the other parent hoping to get a different answer. We have a firm rule in our house that you don't do this. With this being said, one of our boys has went to the grandmother after we said "no". He was wanting her to try to persuade us to change our minds. Needless to say, I hit the roof. I absolutely can't stand someone (especially family) to butt in our business & try to tell us how to raise our kids/what is best for them. I have been biting my tongue for a very long time regarding this, but I had finally had it. I understand that kids will be kids, but it all comes back down to respecting us.

LESSON LEARNED: Stand your ground on your house rules. Don't let outsiders manipulate decisions you and your spouse have made for your children.

QUILTING: I Have a Lot to Learn!

2011-06-05T11:31:00.002-05:00

Being fairly new in the whole quilting department, I have a lot to learn. Impaired vision (20/80 corrected) I'm sure will make things a bit more difficult. With that being said, I have not let my disability hinder me in the past. I am blessed to have a son that doesn't mind threading my machine for me when need be. His response to me is, "Just don't tell anybody, mom" I'm assuming he meant anyone who knows him, lol. The machine and I seriously need to have a better relationship. I wished I would of payed attention when I was little when momma was sewing.

About 14 yrs ago, I made a crib size Hourglass quilt for my son by hand. This just happens to be the same son who doesn't mind threading my machine. Needless to say, it is in a mess condition but he still has it. My newest endeavor will be a twin size Cathedral Window quilt. Having never worked with Muslin Fabric, I hear it may cause havoc when trying to work with it. They are telling me it stretches and ravels easy. I will be following up with a later post to confirm or deny this statement. My plan is to attempt to do some by machine and some by hand.

I have always had a passion for quilts and have wanted to master this skill/talent. My passion is in the more traditional spectrum. Patterns such as Sun Bonnet Sue, Overall Sam, Hourglass, Log Cabin, Maple Leaf, Texas String Star.... wow the list is endless!

LESSON LEARNED: Never let your disabilities hinder you from attempting to learn something new, especially if you are passionate about it.

LEVITICUS

2011-03-27T11:21:00.011-05:00

Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering
Leviticus 2: The Grain Offering
Leviticus 3: The Peace Offering
Leviticus 4: The Sin Offering
Leviticus 5: The Trespass Offering
   Offerings With Restitution (Leviticus 5:14-)
Leviticus 6: The Law of the Burnt Offering (Leviticus 6:8-13)
   The Law of the Grain Offering (Leviticus 6:14-23)
   The Law of the Sin Offering (Leviticus 6:24-30)
Leviticus 7: The Law of the Trespass Offering
   The Law of Peace Offerings (Leviticus 7:11-21)
   Fat and Blood May Not Be Eaten (Leviticus 7:22-27)
   The Portion of Aaron and His Sons (Leviticus 7:28-38)
Leviticus 8: Aaron and His Sons Consecrated
Leviticus 9: The Priestly Ministry Begins
Leviticus 10: The Profane Fire of Nadab and Abihu
   Conduct Prescribed for Priests (Leviticus 10:8-20)
Leviticus 11: Foods Permitted and Forbidden
   Unclean Animals (Leviticus 11:24-47)
Leviticus 12: The Ritual After Childbirth
Leviticus 13: The Law Concerning Leprosy
   The Law Concerning Leprous Garments (Leviticus 13:47-59)
Leviticus 14: The Ritual for Cleansing Healed Lepers
   The Law Concerning Leprous Houses (Leviticus 14:33-57)
Leviticus 15: The Law Concerning Bodily Discharges
Leviticus 16: The Day of Atonement
Leviticus 17: The Sanctity of Blood
Leviticus 18: Laws of Sexual Morality
Leviticus 19: Moral and Ceremonial Laws
Leviticus 20: Penalties for Breaking the Law
Leviticus 21: Regulations for Conduct of Priests
Leviticus 22: Offerrings for Accepted and Not Accepted (Leviticus 22:17--)
Leviticus 23: Sabbath (Leviticus 23:3)
   The Passover and Unleavened Bread (Leviticus 23:4-8)
     The Feasts of Firstfruits (Leviticus 23:9-14)
     The Feast of Weeks (Leviticus 23:15-22)
     The Feast of Trumpets (Leviticus 23:23-25)
     The Day of Atonement (Leviticus 26-32)
   The Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:33-44)
Leviticus 24: Care of the Tabernacle Lamps
   The Bread of the Tabernacle (Leviticus 24:5-9)
   The Penalty for Blasphemy (Leviticus 24:10-23)
Leviticus 25: The Sabbath of the Seventh Year
   The Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:8-17)
     Provisions of the Seventh Year (Leviticus 25:18-22)
     Redemption of Property (Leviticus 25:23-34)
     Lending to the Poor (Leviticus 25:35-38)
   The Law Concerning Slavery (Leviticus 25:39-55)
Leviticus 26: Promise of Blessing and Retribution
Leviticus 27: Redeeming Persons and Property Dedicated to God

SOURCE: YouVersion.com

EXODUS

2011-03-20T17:17:00.003-05:00

Exodus 1: Israel's Suffering in Egypt
Exodus 2: Moses is Born
   Moses Flees to Midian (Exodus 2:11-25)
Exodus 3: Moses at the Burning Bush
Exodus 4:  MiracuGlous Signs for Pharaoh
   Moses Goes to Egypt (Exodus 4:18-31)
Exodus 5:  First Encounter with Pharaoh
   Israel's Deliverance Assured (Exodus 5:22-)
Exodus 6:  The Family of Moses and Aaron (Exodus 6:14-27)
   Aaron is Moses' Spokesman (Exodus 6:28-)
Exodus 7: Aaron's Miraculous Rod (Exodus 7:8-13)
   The First Plague: Waters Become Blood (Exodus 7:14-25)
Exodus 8: The Second Plague: Frogs
   The Third Plague: Lice (Exodus 8:16-19)
   The Fourth Plague: Flies (Exodus 8:20-32)
Exodus 9: The Fifth Plague: Livestock Diseased
   The Sixth Plague: Boils (Exodus 9:8-12)
   The Seventh Plague: Hail (Exodus 9:13-35)
Exodus 10:  The Eighth Plague: Locusts
   The Ninth Plague: Darkness (Exodus 10:21-29)
Exodus 11: Death of the Firstborn Announced
Exodus 12: The Passover Instituted
   The Tenth Plague: Death of the Firstborn (Exodus 12:29-31)
   The Exodus (Exodus 12:31-42)
   Passover Regulations (Exodus 12:43-51)
Exodus 13: The Firstborn Consecrated
   The Feast of Unleavened Bread (Exodus 13:3-10)
   The Law of the Firstborn (Exodus 13:11-16)
   The Wilderness Way (Exodus 13:17-22)
Exodus 14: The Red Sea Crossing
Exodus 15: The Song of Moses
   The Song of Miriam (Exodus 15:20-21)
   Bitter Waters Made Sweet (Exodus 15:22-27)
Exodus 16: Bread from Heaven
Exodus 17: Water from the Rock
   Victory Over the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8-16)
Exodus 18: Jethro's Advice
Exodus 19: Israel at Mount Sinai
Exodus 20: The Ten Commandments
   The People Afraid of God's Presence (Exodus 20:18-21)
   The Law of the Altar (Exodus 20:22-26)
Exodus 21: The Law Concerning Servants
   The Law Concerning Violence (Exodus 21:12-27)
   Animal Control Laws (Exodus 21:28-36)
Exodus 22:  Responsibility for Property
   Moral and Ceremonial Principles (Exodus 22:16-31)
Exodus 23:  Justice For All
   The Law of Sabbaths (Exodus 23:10-13)
   Three Annual Feasts (Exodus 23:14-19)
   The Angel and the Promises (Exodus 23:20-33)
Exodus 24: Israel Affirms the Covenant
   On the Mountain with God (Exodus 24:9-18)
Exodus 25: Offerings for the Sanctuary
   The Ark of the Testimony (Exodus 25:10-22)
   The Table for the Showbread (Exodus 25:23-30)
   The Gold Lampstand (Exodus 25:31-40)
Exodus 26: The Tabernacle
Exodus 27: The Altar of Burnt Offering
   The Court of the Tabernacle (Exodus 27:9-19)
   The Care of the Lampstand (Exodus 27:20-21)
Exodus 28: Garments for the Priesthood
   The Ephod (Exodus 28:5-14)
   The Breastplate (Exodus 28:15-30)
   Other Priestly Garments (Exodus 28:31-43)
Exodus 29: Aaron and His Sons Consecrated
   The Daily Offerings (Exodus 29:38-46)
Exodus 30: The Altar of Incense
   The Ransom Money (Exodus 30:11-16)
   The Bronze Laver (Exodus 30:17-21)
   The Holy Anointing Oil (Exodus 30:22-33)
   The Incense (Exodus 30:34-38)
Exodus 31: Artisans for Building the Tabernacle
   The Sabbath Law (Exodus 31:12-18)
Exodus 32: The God Calf
Exodus 33: The Command to Leave Sinai
   The Promise of God's Presence (Exodus 33:12-23)
Exodus 34: Moses Makes New Tablets
   The Covenant Renewed (Exodus 34:10-28)
   The Shining Face of Moses (Exodus 34:29-35)
Exodus 35: Sabbath Regulations
   Offerings for the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:4-9)
   Articles of the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:10-19)
   The Tabernacle Offerings Presented (Exodus 35:20-29)
   The Artisans Called by God (Exodus 35:30-)
Exodus 36: The People Give More Than Enough (Exodus 36:2-7)
   Building the Tabernacle (Exodus 36:8-38)
Exodus 37: Making the Ark of the Testimony
   Making the Table for the Showbread (Exodus 37:10-16)
   Making the Gold Lampstand (Exodus 37:17-24)
   Making the Altar of Incense (Exodus 37:25-28)
   Making the Anointing Oil and the Incense (Exodus 37:29)
Exodus 38:  Making the Altar of Burnt Offering
   Making the Bronze Laver (Exodus 38:8)
   Making the Court of the Tabernacle (Exodus 38:9-20)
   Materials of the Tabernacle (Exodus 38:21-31)
Exodus 39: Making Garments of the Priesthood
   Making the Ephod (Exodus 39:2-7)
   Making the Breastplate (Exodus 39:8-21)
   Making the Other Priestly Garments (Exodus 39:22-31)
   The Work Completed (Exodus 39:32-43)
Exodus 40: The Tabernacle Erected and Arranged
   The Cloud and the Glory (Exodus 40:34-38)

SOURCE: Via YouVersion

GENESIS

2011-03-16T15:07:00.006-05:00

Genesis 1: The History of Creation
Genesis 2: Life in God's Garden (Genesis 2:8-25)
Genesis 3: The Temptation and Fall of Man
Genesis 4: Cain Murders Abel
   The Family of Cain (Genesis 4: 16-24)
   A New Son (Genesis 4: 25)
Genesis 5: The Family of Adam
Genesis 6: The Wickedness and Judgement of Man
   Noah Pleases God (Genesis 6:9-12)
   The Ark of Prepared (Genesis 6: 13-22)
Genesis 7: The Great Flood
Genesis 8: Noah's Deliverance
   God's Covenant with Creation (Genesis 8: 20-)
Genesis 9: Noah and His Sons (Genesis 9:18-29)
Genesis 10: Nations Descended from Noah
Genesis 11: The Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9)
   Shem's Descendants (Genesis 11: 10-26)
   Terah's Descendants (Genesis 11: 27-32)
Genesis 12: Promises to Abram
   Abram in Egypt (Genesis 12:10-20)
Genesis 13: Abram Inherits Canaan
Genesis 14: Lot's Captivity and Rescue
   Abram and Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-24)
Genesis 15: God's Covenant with Abram
Genesis 16: Hagar and Ishmael
Genesis 17: The Sign of the Covenant
Genesis 18: The Son of Promise
   Abraham Intercedes for Sodom (Genesis 18:16-33)
Genesis 19: Sodom's Depravity
   Sodom and Gomorrah Destroyed (Genesis 19:12-29)
   The Descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:30-38)
Genesis 20: Abraham and Abimelech
Genesis 21: Isaac is Born
   Hagar and Ishmael Depart (Genesis 21:8-21)
     A Covenant with Abimelech (Genesis 21:22-34)
Genesis 22: Abraham's Faith Confirmed
   The Family of Nahor (Genesis 22:20-24)
Genesis 23: Sarah's Death and Burial
Genesis 24: A Bride for Isaac
Genesis 25: Abraham and Keturah
   Abraham's Death and Burial (Genesis 25:7-11)
   The Families of Ishmael and Isaac (Genesis 25:12-28)
   Esau Sells His Birthright (Genesis 25:29-34)
Genesis 26: Isaac and Abimelech
Genesis 27: Isaac Blesses Jacob
   Esau's Lost Hope (Genesis 27:30-40)
   Iacob Escapes from Esau (Genesis 27:41-)
Genesis 28: Esau Marries Mahalath (Genesis 28:6-9)
   Jacob's Vow at Bethel (Genesis 28:10-22)
Genesis 29: Jacob Meets Rachel
   Jacob Marries Leah and Rachel (Genesis 29:15-30)
   The Children of Jacob (Genesis 29:31-)
Genesis 30: Jacob's Agreement with Laban (Genesis 30:25-43)
Genesis 31: Jacob Flees from Laban
   Laban Pursues Jacob (Genesis 31:22-42)
   Laban's Covenant with Jacob (Genesis 31:43-55)
Genesis 32: Esau Comes to Meet Jacob
   Wrestling with God (Genesis 32:22-32)
Genesis 33: Jacob and Esau Meet
   Jacob Comes to Canaan (Genesis 33:18-20)
Genesis 34: The Dinah Incident
Genesis 35: Jacob's Return to Bethel
   Death of Rachal (Genesis 35:16-22)
   Jacob's Twelve Sons (Genesis 35:23-26)
   Death of Isaac (Genesis 35:27-29)
Genesis 36: The Family of Esau
   The Chief's of Edom (Genesis 36:15-19)
   The Sons of Seir (Genesis 36:20-30)
   The Kings of Sodom (Genesis 36:31-39)
   The Chiefs of Esau (Genesis 36:40-43)
Genesis 37: Joseph Dreams of Greatness
   Joseph Sold by His Brothers (Genesis 37:12-36)
Genesis 38: Judah and Tamar
Genesis 39: Joseph a Slave in Egypt
Genesis 40: The Prisoners' Dreams
Genesis 41: Pharaoh's Dreams
   Joseph's Rise to Power (Genesis 41:37-57)
Genesis 42: Joseph's Brothers Go to Egypt
   The Brothers Return to Canaan (Genesis 42:25-38)
Genesis 43: Joseph's Brothers Return with Benjamin
Genesis 44: Joseph's Cup
   Judah Intercedes for Benjamin (Genesis 44:18-34)
Genesis 45: Joseph Revealed to His Brothers
Genesis 46: Jacob's Journey to Egypt
   Jacob Settles in Goshen (Genesis 46:28-)
Genesis 47: Joseph Deals with the Famine (Genesis 47:13-26)
   Joseph's Vow to Jacob (Genesis 47:27-31)
Genesis 48: Jacob Blesses Joseph's Sons
Genesis 49: Jacob's Last Words to His Sons
   Jacob's Death and Burial (Genesis 49:29-)
Genesis 50: Joseph Reassures His Brothers (Genesis 50:15-21)
   Death of Joseph (Genesis 50:22-26)

SOURCE: Via YOUVERSION

NOTE: BIBLE GENEALOGY DIAGRAM to help you understand the kinships.

Sabotaging Scales

2011-01-20T08:38:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I just want to throw the scales away. I realize it is a mind thing, but when the numbers aren't doing what I want them to, I want to throw in the towel. As a result, I make bad decisions as far as my intake is concerned. I am looking at this DASH DIET PLAN and thinking of giving it a try. This will be in conjunction with SPARKPEOPLE and my BODYBUGG. All of the tools are there, I just have to get my mind right! Sure wish there was a tool for that! In addition, I need to ease myself into exercising. Trying to find the right routine and game plan has been difficult. Running is out of the question for now being that my chest starts to hurt right from the start. There are a million of other avenues for exercise, I just need to find my nitch. It is time to do the dreaded menus and grocery list which stresses me out. Not sure why this is. Another problem I am having is doing this on my own. Thomas was doing this with me, but since the treadmill broke, his motivation has been null and void. One would think that as "I will show you" as I am, this wouldn't be an issue for me.

LESSON LEARED: Weight loss is a never ending battle unless you are willing and able to make the life altering changes on a constant basis to ensure lasting success.

NOT AT THE SAME TABLE AS YOU

2011-01-01T13:48:00.000-06:00

Today has not been the greatest start to the new year. My 11 year old was still in bed at 1 pm. Therefore, I told him he needed to get up and come eat something. Needless to say, he was not happy with me. He came downstairs, fixed him something to eat while I am sitting at the kitchen table. He decides he doesn't want to sit at the same table with me and proceeds to go eat in the dining room, which we NEVER use. He evidently doesn't want to be in the same room as me. So, I made him come right back in the kitchen and sit down with me while he ate. The attitudes have started already. All of these boys are fixing to get a rude awakening because I am not going to put up with attitude all of the time and be unhappy. If that means staying on their case to break these habits, then so be it. I can be the biggest pain with the best of them. When they get tired of dealing with me then maybe they will re evaluate and correct their actions.

LESSON LEARNED: Call them on their behavior right then so they don't think they can keep getting by with it.

Santa's Video Message to Jeremy 2010

2010-12-18T14:31:00.000-06:00

My brother and sister-n-law told me about this website. You can personalize and add pictures to create a video from Santa. This is absolutely amazing! So if there is any doubt in their mind that Santa isn't "real", this should take care of that. Take a peek below to see how it turned out!

SANTA'S VIDEO MESSAGE TO JEREMY 2010

LESSON LEARNED: Always try to keep the magic in the little one's minds!

DISPOSITION

2010-11-19T22:58:00.002-06:00

My disposition is seriously out of wack. Everything and everyone tends to set me off here lately. I am thinking I need to take some time to re evaluate my thoughts and avenues. Practice what I preach so to speak. It has gotten so bad that I posted the following on my facebook page:
"My kids are a lot like me (maybe some of it not good). I have no tolerance of being lied to, talk to rudely, gossiping, being used, messiness, or habitual negativity. I will very quickly "wash my hands" Life is stressful enough as it is w/out all of that drama. My apologizes, I am no better than the next person at all, but that just put me in a mood."
I usually avoid all of the above and it usually keeps my disposition in check. I'm thinking I need to get back to cooking/recipes/nutritional value charting. Maybe a bit of crocheting. I have been sick for almost 2 weeks so I haven't done much cooking and haven't really done a whole lot of anything. That might be part of the problem as well.

LESSON LEARNED: Once again, avoid the drama and negativity to help keep your own attitude in check.

SFA COLLEGE TOUR

2010-11-14T12:37:00.005-06:00

On Saturday, Nov 13, 2010, we took Christopher to Nacogdoches, TX to tour Stephen F. Austin State University. It is about an hour and a half from home. I liked the college as a whole. It wasn't too big, nor too small. The average class size was about 28. This will enable a good learning experience with the ability to ask questions. They serve about 13,000 students. Everything he could need is in walking distance, including free minor medical care. They have some of the most top notch curriculum, teachers and advisors.

I will be honest and say that I was not happy with the dorm situation. I understand that it is mandatory for them to live on campus for the first 2 years and/or 60 hours. They are expected to live 2 people in a 12 x 15 room. There is a community shower (which was not in the best condition) and a community kitchen. The size would be fine for 1 person, but 2? It is very cramped! They will have a new dorm building ready by fall, which will have larger rooms, but what are the odds of him being able to get one of those?

He doesn't seem too excited, which worries me. I think it is because none of his friends are going there. They are all headed to the Houston area. I understand that, but feel that it is in his best interest to meet new people. Christopher worries so and I know this is a huge leap for him going to a new town, new school; so much to take in at once.

I really need to get busy and see about scholarships and financial aide. I'm not really sure where to start myself. It is hard to get with the high school counselor for assistance and direction.

LESSON LEARNED: Do you still keep guiding in what we think is the right direction? Do we let him make all of these decisions and pray they are the right ones? I am choosing to still guide and pray I am dong the right thing. Only time will tell.

BROOKELAND ISD FALL FEST 2010

2010-10-30T15:29:00.002-05:00

The senior class of 2011, which includes my oldest son (Christopher), held their fall fest last night (Oct 29th). It was very successful! I wish I had pictures to show you! Haunted house, barbecue sandwiches, dunking booth, bake sale, game booths, costume contest, and a hay ride. You name it, they had it! A lot of work was put into this event to ensure that the little ones had a real good time. This was in hopes to provide a safe alternative to the norm trick or treating. Tonight they will also hold a Trick and Trunk in the school parking lot. The teenagers have had a blast decorating their ride and the little ones will come out all sugared up!

Our contribution as parents was running the barbecue dinner booth. I also made a homemade lemon pound cake, tons of peanut butter chew, and homemade ginger cookies for the bake sale.

LESSON LEARNED: Get involved in your kids' activities. It will sure to become an everlasting memory in their lives.

Emotional Day

2010-09-22T21:57:00.002-05:00

Disheartening news to start my day. I was unable to renew my driver's license due to my bad eyesight. This was something I knew was inevitable. My vision is 20/80 with glasses. It must be 20/40 at the DMV. I normally don't drive anyway, but it is the principle of it. I am blessed to have a wonderful husband that always takes care of everything with no complaint. In addition, I am grateful for the vision I do have.

Really missing momma and daddy.... Just seems like I just can't forgive myself and move forward no matter how hard I try. If i could only talk to them one last time... If i could only do things differently and handle things differently... Thank God I have such a wonderful husband and kids. I try so hard to be strong but I flat lost it this evening. I bawled and squalled for at least an hour.

LESSON LEARNED: No matter how hard you try, you can't be strong ALL of the time. You have to be willing to lean on those who love you.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

DE-FRIENDING SITUATIONS

2010-09-03T15:40:00.003-05:00

I have always been an outspoken person so it is very difficult for me to bite my tongue. I try so hard to set the example and not judge being it is not my place to. I just don't understand people these days.

For example. It truly doesn't bother me that someone deletes me as a friend on facebook. What I don't understand is that I have done nothing to her and have known her for years. Strange how her mother is terminally ill and I have sent kind words along with thoughts and prayers, but yet she still deleted me. Her FB account is still active so it's not that she deleted her whole account. The reason I knew this is because I was going to let her know I was thinking about her mom and her profile was deleted from my friends list. What ever her reasoning is, hopefully she will find peace in her thoughts and actions. If you don't want me as a "friend" then why did you send me the friend request to start with? Just sayin'. I will, of course, continue to send prayers up for her mother as well.

Another example: Every relationship has issues, completely understandable. There is always two sides to every story. What I don't get is, if you are that miserable why do you continue to stay with the one you are with? You have already had a job offer and a place to stay offered so it can't be the stability stand point. I know from personal experience that every situation is different. But when you are not protecting someone you don't have rights to, then why stay? Especially when there is no violence in the situation so fear is not an excuse. Why all the head games and ill words, just leave. If they are staying because there are kids involved, in my opinion, is the wrong answer. Those kids can pick up on the demeanor around them. It's best to have happy visitation with no bickering between the parents than to expose them to the constant current situation. Then you start doing things to get back at the person you are with in which your choices effects others in the process who have nothing to do with what is going on in your relationship. Just sayin'.

The above two situations are just reminders of why I would rather stay to myself like I always have. Surround myself with my own immediate family and block everything else out. That is one of the many reasons our relationship and home life is so wonderful. I keep out the constant negativity and avoid those who cause it. I used to not be this way and was always there to lend an ear, a shoulder, etc. I have finally taken some advice a lady gave me one time.. " WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO START TAKING CARE OF YOU INSTEAD OF EVERYONE ELSE?" Don't get me completely wrong, I am still there for those who are TRULY my friends. Those who aren't completely engulfed in themselves and will ask, "how are things in your direction? or what have you been into?"

LESSON LEARNED: As I have stated many times, avoid negativity and those who cause it. Life is drama enough without all the extra.

9/2/2010 RELIANT STADIUM TAMPA VS HOUSTON

2010-09-03T15:10:00.006-05:00

Unfortunately, Christopher was unable to go with us due to him having to work. We promised him there would be other games and we were so proud of him. He has really stepped up his responsibility. J.J., Shaylynn, and Jonathan went with us being we had a few extra tickets. Chris, Ronda and her son Calob did not go at the last minute.

We picked the boys up early from school and took Josh to his grandmas being he didn’t want to go. He seemed excited about his visit with her. A stop at Chili’s® was on the agenda right before we got into Houston. Once we got to the stadium which was bumper to bumper traffic, it was $20 for parking and $45 for cokes! Wow, I was in culture shock!

With a birds’ eye view, we could take in the whole atmosphere. I had never been so high up. It had to be at least 9-10 stories high. Our seats were at the very tip top. Needless to say, I felt a bit quizzy and broke out into cold sweats. I later adjusted after being there for a while.

The boys seemed to of had a really good time, but I think they were more interested in the cheerleaders and girl watching, lol. Would of thought their eyes were going to pop out, lol. They are at that age, I guess.

Long trip home but the traffic didn’t seem to bother me so much at night. We arrived at about 1:30 am. The boys did really well getting up that morning for school with no complaints. I did keep Jeremy home because he was extremely irritable.

FYI: TAMPA WON THAT GAME 24-17!

LESSON LEARNED: Try to schedule events when the boys aren't in school It was very bad timing, but was worth seeing their excitement!

GALVESTON BEACH 7/23-24/10

2010-07-26T17:38:00.008-05:00

A last minute trip with good friends to Galveston for a couple of days. We went up there with Chris, Ronda, and their kids. The LaQuinta Inn in Texas City was our initial destination due to everything being booked solid.

We headed to the beach late that night (about 8 pm) and thoroughly enjoyed playing with the boys under the moon light. Unfortunately, I didn't get any pictures due to fear of getting airborne salt in the camera. I plan to be more prepared next time. I packed a cooler full of PB & J sandwiches, chips, cookies, bananas, and doughnuts for the meal fixings. Friends treated us to supper at Wendy's both nights.

We set up our day area underneath the abandoned pier of the damaged Flagship Hotel. The perfect area being we were in constant shade. Jeremy conquered his fear of seaweed and finally came in the water with me! I had to tell him it was "dead grass", lol. We played "jump the wave" and built sand castles together, which I extremely enjoyed!

We didn't leave Galveston until midnight which got us home at 4 am. The boys really enjoyed the ferry ride on the way back which was flat moving fast that night. All the years I have been on it, I have never seen it move that fast. It was a good thing, too because we were exhausted, lol. It was all well worth it, though!

LESSON LEARNED: Be a bit more prepared with a camera. If you make a lot of last minute trips, try to have a pre-packed tote ready to go at a moments notice, lol

JEREMY'S 1ST DAY OF PRE-K 9/1/09

2010-07-17T22:41:00.009-05:00

The hardest thing for me to let go that morning. Thomas was wonderful. He did his part reassuring Jeremy, and then sat back to let me have my momma moment. I was full of tears as he walked out of the door. I wouldn’t let him see me cry, though. He was already overwhelmed with mixed emotions. One minute he was excited, the next he was teary eyed. The boys were so good with him trying to keep his spirits up. They did a wonderful job reassuring him that all would be ok; that he would have fun. I must of called that school at least 5 times (literally) that day for worrying so. His teachers’ names were Mrs. Smith and her assistant, Mrs. Cook. They were so good with him. Unfortunately, he had times of wanting to come home to me every day for at least a month. I felt loved but was heart broken for his tears. He eventually adjusted and made new friends. I was blessed with stories of his day every afternoon!

LESSON LEARNED: During your little one's early years before pre-k, it is best for them to be away from you for short periods of time. It will make it easier for them when it is time for them to start school.... easier for you to let go, too. I learned this the hard way being that Jeremy had never ever been away from me at all.

TNA WRESTLING 5/23/2010

2010-07-17T17:59:00.008-05:00

BEAUMONT, TX

A last minute idea to load up and head to Beaumont to watch TNA live. We were joined by good friends Chris, Ronda and their youngins. Surprisingly, there wasn't a huge crowd but was still an entertaining event. Christopher was our photographer and got some great shots! This was where Josh really started showing an interest in Wrestling. He has been hooked ever since! Lane was more interested in looking at the ladies (giggle) and Jace was like "this isn't as fab as Wrestle Mania" lol. Jeremy was all into it and seemed so excited! At last, ALL of our boys together and were ALL having a good time! Afterwards, we stopped at Hooters® for supper. Everyone still insists the hot wings there aren't as good as mine. I aim to please!

LESSON LEARNED: When you can find inexpensive events to take your children to, try to attend. It will create memories they will always remember and expose them to different experiences.

CUTTING THE APRON STRINGS

2010-07-16T13:31:00.005-05:00

We have tried being easy going while teaching the basic fundaments to prepare our 17 year old son for his future. We explain the pros and cons of what he should do and leave it up to him to make the decisions. For example, why it is important to get at least a part time job. It will prepare him to learn money management, how to deal with pressure in different situations and will start a base line for work experience for future employment. What he needs to do to obtain a job, filling out a job application, how to conduct himself professionally, etc. He needs to learn work ethics.

We have also paved the way for what he needs to do to prepare for college. He did take the initiative and did what was needed to get his ACT test done for college prep. He did fare on it, but needs to improve his score. We suggested he take a practice test at least once a week and make sure he registers in time for the other test dates. The practice tests are free and all over the internet in which he has constant access to. He chose not to do any of this and run the roads every day, unless I stayed on his case. I would have to tell him that he wasn't going anywhere until he did a test and brought me the results. He is 17, I shouldn't have to resort to that.

When he continues to not heed what we are teaching and continues to think life is going to be a free ride from us, it is time to cut the apron strings. That was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. I don't know how else to teach him... He is SO NOT happy with me right now and still doesn't seem to understand why I am upset.

I'm upset when I show and teach something 4 times and tell what to do to be prepared and then he turns around and ask me how to do the same thing. If he would have done what I told him, he would have been prepared. I'm upset when we do what is necessary to prepare him and he still will not take the initiative unless I stay on his case.

Our conclusion is the following: We no longer pay for his gas (he was getting a tank a week). The only way we continue to pay his insurance is if his grades stay up and will continue to pay during his college years. If he chooses not to go to college and plans to stay here, he will start paying us rent and we will no longer pay for his insurance nor his cell phone bill.

We have taught him and given the info needed to prepare him. It is his choice whether to use it or not. He's a real good kid and stays out of trouble but gets mad at me for forcing him to step up the responsibility.
Our job as parents is to guide them, teach the basic concepts, and to push to some degree to keep them in the right direction. But all we can do is give them the information needed and pray they take heed and make the right choices.

LESSON LEARNED: You can not hold their hand and let them have a total free ride when they refuse to take initiative. They will learn nothing that way.

EBENEZER PARK 7/4/2010

2010-07-07T00:26:00.009-05:00

EBENEZER PARK ON LAKE SAM RAYBURN: We spent the day with many of our friends (J.J. and his family, Jonathan, Chris and his family, and Patrick). Good eats, swimming, and good music. After everyone left, we took Troubles down to the water and played some fetch. He jumped across the water like a rabbit. It was the first time we had ever taken him to the lake. He had so much fun! As we played with the boys in the water, it was decided we would reserve the site for 2 more nights. Unfortunately, we wrapped it up and came home the next morning. The worse time ever for a stomach bug to hit me during the night. Jace was pretty toasty even with sunscreen, so we felt it was best that we cut it short. Christopher stayed the remainder of the day and came home about 1 a.m. He was definitely crispy. I imagine he was pretty miserable trying to sleep in the heat and humidity. I am glad he and Bobby decided to come home and get a good night sleep before they went to work the next day. My honey went way and beyond to insure that we had a wonderful, memorable weekend! I thank God everyday for blessing me with the most amazing family.

LESSON LEARNED: Capture these moments on camera. They will stay with you forever. Keep some kind of record of your family adventures.

HOLLY PARK 7/3/2010

2010-07-06T23:41:00.023-05:00

HOLLY PARK ON TOLEDO BEND LAKE: Grilling burgers in the rain and the boys watching Lane do a bit of fishing were just the beginning of this adventure. Josh and Jeremy both conquered one of their fears; they jumped off of a 15 ft peer and were so proud of their achievement! I am still shocked that they even asked to jump off of it! Thomas was down in the water to reassure them of their safety.

Jeremy met a little friend named Taren (4). They played in the water together for an hour with me right there for safety. They also sat side by side watching the amazing fireworks display together. All of the boys had a fabulous time! My only regret was that I had forgotten the good camera at home.

We were joined by our good friends and their kids. (J.J. and his family and Jonathan) All seemed to have had a fabulous time. It was so nice to get out for a while!

LESSON LEARNED: Find different places to go as a family to make memories that will last a lifetime.

GOD DOESN'T LIKE UGLY

2010-06-22T23:33:00.003-05:00

I am ashamed to say that I haven't been down to Leesville to check on things. Call it avoidance due to me having a hard time dealing with the loss of my parents. My brother has come down from Pennsylvania for a visit. He went by there and found their flowers missing again. This is the 3rd time since we buried our mother in February. I have a feeling it might be one of the boys from my previous marriage of 10 years. He didn't have the decency to come pay his respects back in August for my daddy nor for my mother. Needless to say we had words over it. He is also aware he is not welcomed at my house for several reasons. My sister's flowers and all the others have remained in place. The only ones ever missing are my parents'. It takes a sorry person to steal from God's children.

LESSON LEARNED: God doesn't like ugly and He may take from those who take from His children. Evil will come back to haunt you.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY, DADDY (((HUG)))

2010-06-20T11:15:00.005-05:00

If yellow roses grow in Heaven, Lord, please pick a bunch for me. Place them in my Daddy's arms and tell him they're from me. Tell him that I love and miss him, and when he turns to smile, place a kiss upon his cheek and hold him for awhile. Because remembering him is easy, I do it every day, but there's an ache in my heart...it never goes away. I miss u so much, Daddy (RIP 8/16/2009)

LESSON LEARNED: Keep your parents near and treasure them while they are with you.

FATHER'S DAY IS COMING UP!

2010-06-13T00:03:00.002-05:00

glitter-graphics.com
DADDY'S BIRTHDAY IS ON THE 15TH AND FATHER'S DAY IS ON THE 20TH. IT IS GONNA BE SUPER TOUGH! I PRAY FOR STRENGTH AND COURAGE EVERYDAY. MAY YOU AND MOMMA HAVE PEACE WHILE SINGING WITH THE ANGELS. OXOXOX

LESSON LEARNED: Never take one day for granted with your loved ones. You may not get the chance to say good bye. Treat every day like it might be your last with them.

SPARKPEOPLE

2010-06-06T15:17:00.002-05:00

I have decided to get back into SPARKPEOPLE. It is a FREE weight loss program that is absolutely amazing! It is simple, fun, and has a lot of perks. They also have a companion app for the phone, as well as, a companion recipe app for the phone; both of which are also FREE.

Sunday is my weigh in day of choice. I have lost 3lbs this week.

LESSON LEARNED: If you aren't the healthiest person, at least attempt to do something about it. If not for yourself, do it for your family.

FIRED UP

2010-05-14T21:17:00.003-05:00

Well, where do I start? We had a major remodel done to our house during the time I lost my daddy. Then I had lost my mom 5 months later. So, my mind was not on checking behind these guys to make sure things were done the way they were suppose to be. There is so much wrong with the work they had done. We still have a huge unexpected bill from them. Needless to say, we are not going to pay them a dime more until they either fix ALL of it, or trashes the remaining bill. I have been avoiding the contractor until I could get my composure in check. Yes, my red hair flames when I've had enough. I have no tolerance for someone who refuses to take responsibility for their actions and constantly makes excuses. I have no tolerance for someone who thinks I'm an idiot and trying to take me to the cleaners. If anyone is interested in what the outcome turns out to be, leave me a comment and I will update.

LESSON LEARNED: Stand your ground and don't let anyone walk all over you! Try to maintain your composure but don't let that stand in the way of what is right.

MOTHER'S DAY

2010-05-09T21:00:00.003-05:00

New Graphics
Wow, the most difficult day ever! I miss my mom something awful! Thank you to all of you! Your love and true friendship are much appreciated. May God please give me strength and courage. Thank you for surrounding me near or far with people who love me unconditionally.

MOOD SWINGS

2010-04-26T21:11:00.000-05:00

   Absolutely just don't know! One minute I'm ok, the next, I'm mad at the world again. I have been feeling very stressed, overwhelmed, irritable. Usually it is worry about finances, but all is ok in that department at the moment. I don't like to whine and complain. I try to stay positive, but sometimes that's not so easy. Sad thing is when I'm like this everyone around me (my family) end up catching the re-procutions from it.
   Yesterday, we went out to Ms. Beth's. I ended up getting very attached to her husband, Mr. Butch. He has recently passed away one day before my mother… him on Feb 1st and her on Feb 2nd. Needless to say, it was very difficult to keep my emotions in check in front of everyone. I know how hard it was for me, so I can only imagine how hard it was for Thomas and J.J.
   A lot of emotional stuff for me for the past week as well as busy, busy. Hopefully I can get it all together soon. I honestly don't know how Thomas deals with me!

LESSON LEARNED: When I'm moody I try to stay clear of everyone and stay to myself.

Testing a BlogPress App

2010-04-23T18:30:00.001-05:00

I found a new app that will allow me to write a post on the go, it will then post it to my main blog page. The only draw back I have found at this point is the inability to Label from the app. Nope, I figured out how to do that now (giggle)

It says I can put pictures within the post so I will try it..... I haven't found the icons they were talking about just yet.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iP

Location:Victoria Dr,Brookeland,United States

TRYING TO FIND A BALANCE

2010-04-10T16:23:00.001-05:00

My emotions seem to be all over the place again. I need to back up and re evaluate my goals. Thomas and I were both blessed to be able to retire at an early age. This is one thing that most people only dream of being able to do. We enjoy being able to stay home in order to be able to always be there when the kids need us, to attend their after school activities, not having to worry about if the boss is going to let us off, etc. We don't have to worry about being so exhausted when we get home to be able to spend quality time with the boys. We also enjoy being able to spend all day together. Most couples would want their space, etc. Our relationship is blessed to not be that way at all. In fact, we truly just don't like being away from each other. Trust me when I say that neither one of us was blessed to have this type of bond with anyone until we met each other. We thank God every day for bringing us together and showing us the way.

The downfall of this is that we both have a need to feel productive, accomplished, and successful.
I am currently enrolled in a medical transcription school but finding it difficult to get a routine in place. He has recently joined a gym to keep himself busy. We both are starting to feel a bit restless of what direction to go in. The ultimate goal is to find something we both enjoy and be able to do it together. Kink is that our interests are different. Strangely enough, this is one of the aspect that makes our relationship so strong. We may have different interests and knowledge bases, but we teach each other.

With all the stress and loss of loved one's recently, seems like my whole world is unbalanced. I like simplicity, order, and direction. I am unsure of how to handle the disarray. As a result, I seem to stay exhausted, feel disorganized, and disconnected. I miss having all the energy and passion in things like I used to.

LESSON LEARNED: ?

WHAT IS OUR SCHOOL THINKING?

2010-04-07T20:21:00.000-05:00

Why is it that when certain grade levels have TAKS testing, the other grades do absolutely nothing during the day? I still need to confirm this statement. This is what I am getting from the boys. I am starting to doubt the quality of education that they are getting. Yes, being in a smaller school has it's advantages. I never have to worry about them not being safe. There is more one on one teaching capability. The classes aren't overcrowded.

At the same time, I still have concerns. I have already seen first hand some of their standards. As a reward for passing their TAKS test last year, if their grades are satisfactory, they have an option of having 12 free Fridays to do nothing, or 12 Fridays to be able to stay home without being counted absent. I made our boys go to school those days and insisted they be put in tutorial classes during those days. Never hurts to get extra practice.

LESSON LEARNED: Be active in what is going on in your children's school and what they are being taught. Their future depends on it.

AVOID HOLIDAY OVERLOAD

2010-04-07T08:41:00.001-05:00

Yes, I know, It is only Spring, lol. But one must start early! Every year I devise a plan to prevent the overwhelming stress of the holidays. Financial and time crunch stress can be avoided.
   *GIFT GIVING: I compile a list of people for whom gifts are to be given. I divide that number by the number of paydays up until the end of November. Each payday, I start working down the list.
   *CARD LIST: I keep a folder with a list of names and addresses. At the beginning of December, I buy a box of cards and start working down the list.
   *DEADLINES: First week in December, packages start being mailed and cards sent out. This will ensure their arrival on time even if going overseas.
   *DECORATING: Second week in December, decorations get pulled out and displayed accordingly.
   *MEAL PLAN: Third week in December, meal planning begins, shopping lists made.

LESSON LEARNED: Keep a game plan and follow it. This will enable you to enjoy the holidays. Always remember the reason for the season.

SNAPPY

2010-03-28T12:12:00.000-05:00

I hate to admit, but I have been so beside myself for the past few days. I seem to be biting every one's head off. The least little thing irritates me. I need to back up and regroup my thoughts. I don't know what has gotten in to me. I have been holding up well considering the recent loss of both my parents until the last few days. Emotional meltdowns every day and had several today. Maybe it is just hitting me, I don't know. Today was the perfect opportunity to get quite a bit of studying done. Needless to say, I stayed crabby all day and didn't do any. My husband is trying to talk me into going to the Dr. and asking for something to help, but I am reluctant. I don't want to be hooked on something or put on the wrong thing. Medicine like that is trial and error until they get you on the right one. I have always been the one to try to stay positive, etc. Not an easy thing to do. I just don't know if I can even go to the dr. without crying.

LESSON LEARNED: ?

LITTLE THINGS MEAN A LOT

2010-03-01T15:27:00.000-06:00

Always make time for each other. In today's world, everything seem so hectic. Between career, raising kids, taking care of a house hold, possibly school. The day gets very jammed pack. Take a few minutes for a lunch date, text message, or stop by the store for a card. Even the smallest of things lets the other know you are thinking about them even though your day is totally chaotic.

Make time for the two of you. We find that hard at times. But even if it takes setting your alarm an hour earlier or a quiet dinner for two with candles in your own kitchen after the kids go to bed. There have been times that we go sit on the back porch after the kids go to bed.

LESSON LEARNED: Always make time for each other. This ensures that no matter how hectic life gets, they know they are still very important and special to you. This goes both ways.

ALCOHOL SOLVES NOTHING

2010-03-01T15:13:00.001-06:00

I see relationships where one goes out with their friends and the other with theirs and end up partying and drinking. First of all, I wouldn't even want to go out without my honey by my side. If you truly love someone, you will be the same way. I agree with guys needing guy time and gals gal time, but partying without your significant other needs to be where the line is drawn.

Thomas spends time with his guy friends, but it is usually day events. For example, they may go to the shooting range, wrestling event, football event, NASCAR event. It is NEVER out to party without me.
With that being said, I may go get my hair done or go do lunch or something. But NEVER go out and party without him.

I have NEVER seen a relationship work out where the couple "went out" without the other.

FYI: My hubby nor I even drink. This was an observation I had seen from other couples that ended in disaster.

LESSON LEARNED: If you truly love someone, you wouldn't want to ever be away from each other much less go out without them.

CLEAN SLATE

2010-03-01T15:02:00.000-06:00

No matter the situation, sometimes the two of you have to back up and start completely over. Anything that has happened in the past, whether it be between the two of you or something that happened to each one of you in the past, MUST STAY IN THE PAST. Go with the thought of, "trust until given a reason not to", this is where the honesty comes in. 'BELIEVE 1/2 OF WHAT YOU SEE YOURSELF AND NOTHING YOU HEAR." Nothing is as clean cut as it seems, so don't jump to conclusions. If you can do these things, you are off to a good start. This also goes back to avoiding other's opinions. If someone doesn't agree with y'all being together, they like to stir mess to try to prevent y'all success as a couple.

As far as my husband and I are concerned, if I was to let the things that had happened in my past contribute to decisions I make with him, then our relationship may not be as strong as it is. If you go into things with lack of trust right off the bat, you are headed for trouble before you ever get started. I'm sitting here telling you that like it is an easy thing to do. I admit that it is hard. But at the same time, it is a necessity in order to have a strong relationship.

LESSON LEARNED: Keep the past in the past. This will enable a fresh start to build from.

HONESTY

2010-03-01T14:49:00.000-06:00

I can't stress enough how important HONESTY is! This is true in anything or any situation. I don't care how awful it is.. if one would only tell the truth! When one starts with one lie, leads to another, and another.. making a mountain out of what started out as a mole hill. Then this leads to lack of trust. Once that happens it is SO HARD to ever gain that trust back. I'm not saying it can't be done, but if you tell the truth to begin with than it's one less thing to have to overcome.

LESSON LEARNED: As the old saying goes, "Honesty is the best policy"

AVOID OUTSIDE NEGATIVITY

2010-03-01T14:42:00.001-06:00

My husband and I have some friends that are trying to mend their relationship which has kids involved. In this process, they are enduring some un-needed drama from outsiders. This is what led me to write this post.

Don't let anyone's outside opinions interfere in what you think is best for you and your kids. I would give that same advice to anyone in the same situation.

Misery likes company… you have to ignore the mess stirring and concentrate on what is important. That is just what it is.. mess stirring. One of the roots of most relationship problems is other people.

How we do so well? we have been asked… we shut the negativity out and concentrate on US and OUR KIDS! We "sweep around our own door" and "do not sweep around others."

LESSON LEARNED: Avoid negativity and drama to ensure positive vibes around you. You will notice that you will feed off of each other's emotions. Therefore, keep the karma positive.

FINANCES/MONEY CAN CAUSE HAVOC ON A RELATIONSHIP

2010-02-28T13:11:00.001-06:00

As many may know, the stress of lack of money and finances tend to be a huge problem. The best advice I can give in this department is to make sure that one hand knows what the other one is doing. Little things like lunch, etc. do not need to be discussed.

PAYING BILLS: When it is bill paying time, we sit down TOGETHER and figure out the budget and pay them together. By doing this, you both have the reassurance of knowing what got paid and what hasn't. There will be no question of where the money is going.

NO ULTIMATUMS: Don't ever give one another ultimatums. That is extremely belittling and will no doubt instigate an argument. If you tend to not agree or see that one is fixing to make a bad judgement call, make a suggestion. "What do you think?"is a phrase that everyone should remember.

BIG PURCHASES: This one should be common since. Always discuss before one makes a large purchase.

ATM WITHDRAWALS: This goes back to communication. Even if you are trying to surprise the other with a gift, at least let them know you are pulling X amount (close ballpark figure) out of the ATM for the gift. If large amounts start disappearing, one may start not trusting the other.

All of the above comes right back down to RESPECTING EACH OTHER and COMMUNICATION. It's not called "answering to each other" or "giving each other the third degree" Like I said before, it's not like you're asking permission from your significant other to buy a coke or a burger for lunch. If a relationship gets to that point… a sit down talking session is a major necessity!

LESSON LEARNED: Always keep the "cards on the table" and upfront when it comes to finances and money. Communication is a have to. You aren't belittling or not trusting the other. It is called respecting each other. When it is done in this fashion, it leaves no room for doubts or mis-trustings. It also gives the reassurance that the bills are paid.

TRUSTING YOUR KIDS

2010-02-27T13:18:00.000-06:00

Well, our philosophy is that we trust our kids until they give us a reason not to. We are not the type of parents that think our kids do no wrong. We NEVER under estimate our boys by no means! Only 2 of the 5 have maintained our trust so far. Believe it or not, our 17 yr old is one of those 2! Strange, huh?

Here recently, lying has been the issue in our house. We have absolutely NO TOLERANCE for it. Sad thing is, in both situations it was over something trivial. They fail to see that the problem starts with something small and usually escalates from there. If I can't trust them over small things… Needless to say, all of their privileges have been taken away. In addition, we tried to reason with them to make them understand the importance of being honest. Of course, we all remember that all those talks our parents had with us normally went in one ear and out the other. Time will tell.

LESSON LEARNED: A nosy parent is a good parent! Always check behind your kids just to make sure all is ok in their world.

HOW I PLAN TO "FIT IT ALL IN"

2010-02-26T17:59:00.004-06:00

Well, I have made a final decision to continue with school. I have a sheet I print out every morning. It contains a lined time table by 30 minutes increments. On the right side of the page has a place for your menu for the day, chore list, and a place for notes. I have found that this helps me to "fit it all in." As I start to study, I mark down the place where I started and page number; each time I stop, I do the same.

This is how the basic concept goes:
   6:00 am: get the boys up for school/coffee time
   7:00am: chores done (laundry, pick up the house, etc.)/ plan supper
   9:00am: start studying
   (completed 2.5 hrs study time)
   11:30pm: break for lunch/honey time
   12:00pm: start studying
   (completed 3 hrs study time)
   3:00pm: start cooking supper
   4:00pm: boys home/family time
   5:00pm: eat supper
   6:00pm: Jeremy a bath
   7:00pm Honey Time/Craft time
   10:00pm: bed time

MONDAYS: NO STUDYING/TOTAL HOUSE CLEAN/ERRAND DAY
CALENDAR: MY CALENDAR IS A NECESSITY. BIRTHDAY, BASEBALL GAMES, ERRANDS, ETC.

I KNOW THIS PLAN SEEMS VERY OCD (OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER), BUT I HAVE FOUND THROUGH EXPERIENCE THAT IF I DON'T HAVE A GAME PLAN, I GET VERY OVERWHELMED AND NOTHING AT ALL ACCOMPLISHED! THIS, IN TURN, GETS ME DOWN IN THE DUMPS, LOL.

LESSON LEARNED: Try to stay organized and keep focused. This will help to lessen your stress level and allow you to feel accomplished. It also ensures that you don't get so busy that you forget to make time for your family.

SCHOOL EXTENSION OR TOSS THE TOWEL?

2010-02-22T08:24:00.002-06:00

I am ashamed to say that I have been enrolled for 2 years come this July. I have only completed 17% of this course. I am currently half way through Pharmacology. My extension expires March 17. This fact alone is discouraging for me. To add to the situation, I have recently lost my mother on February 2 and lost my father on August 16, five months apart.

I am having a lot of self doubts at this point. My mindset is all over the place and the CS clock is ticking for that extension to run out. The reasonings for me pursuing this career have not changed. I have always had a passion for the medical field. The financial stability is present but things are really tight at the moment. I have had a couple of huge bills added to my plate. As far as the far future stability, I have concerns of late life security. Also, I still have a need to feel successful. I was in the medical field for a long time and gave up my career. I had to re-prioritize and do what was best for my children at that time.

At this point, I can't seem to focus and don't know what direction to go. I also have concerns of the stability of the MT profession with all the technology today. Every hospital and doctors office I have been in has done their reports at the time of seeing the patient. Everything was computerized.

I know I need to contact CS for guidance on what to do. I just can't seem to manage a phone call without crying. E-mail might be the way I need to contact them. On the outside, one may think I have my act together. On the inside, it is a whole different story. Wow, I do believe I have been rambling. Your listening has been much appreciated! Hopefully I can come to a decision soon. I only have a week or so to ponder and come up with a solution.

Thanks again!

LESSON LEARNED: ?

GOD LOOKED AROUND HIS GARDEN

2010-02-16T09:18:00.004-06:00

THE HOLY ALPHABET - author unknown

2010-02-16T08:42:00.004-06:00

Although things are not perfect

Because of trial or pain

Continue in thanksgiving

Do not begin to blame

Even when the times are hard

Fierce winds are bound to blow

God is forever able

Hold on to what you know

Imagine life without His love

J oy would cease to be

Keep thanking Him for all the things

Love imparts to thee

Move out of "Camp Complaining"

No weapon that is known

On earth can yield the power

Praise can do alone

Quit looking at the future

Redeem the time at hand

Start every day with worship

To "thank" is a command

Until we see Him coming

Victorious in the sky

We'll run the race with gratitude

X alting God most high

Y es, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...

Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!

"I AM Too blessed to be stressed!" The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor. The one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything. Love and peace be with you forever, Amen.

MORAL DELIMA-WHAT TO DO? WHAT TO DO?

2010-02-16T08:36:00.001-06:00

At this point, I feel very used and have decided to distance myself from negativity. I have this "friend" if you want to call her that, that did help me out with my wedding. She also was dating one of Thomas' friends and has a little girl by him. Her and him have split and she has been down right ugly towards him. We have stayed out of it and just have listened, etc. First point, no matter how bad things were in my past, I don't recall ever being that hateful and vindictive. I tried to reason with her, etc. about her situation and get her to look at things in a different perspective. But she starts listening to the wrong people, etc. and then she turns ugly all over again.

I have babysat for her for a few days before mom got sick and had originally told her that if she was in a bind, I would be glad to keep Jen, etc. She knew mom was sick a week before she passed and it was on my facebook, etc. (She uses facebook). Plus I told her a week before mom passed that it didn't look good at all, etc. She not once called to check on me nor mom. The only way she called was when Chris (her ex boyfriend, Thomas' friend) told her in court on the 5th that she needed to call me. She has texted me once since then. Now she texted me yesterday wanting me to keep Jen today.. I didn't reply. I feel like the only time she contacts me is when she needs a sitter for Jen.

My moral standards and what I believe are the issue. I realize that I may be the only Bible some people "read" and I'm not perfect by no means. I have plenty of faults I am having to work on. I feel so "USED". To stand by and read the things she says to and about Chris is disheartening. I know I should set the example and do the right thing, but what is the right thing?

I have always kept myself from making friends for a reason. Not saying everyone is like this, but they have either used me, lied to me, slept with my boyfriend, or made a pass at my husband. Yes, I learned from experience and learned from my mistakes. So now, I don't allow myself to be opened up to people. My thought with her was.. ok, all that was in the past, I'll try this friendship thing again. Well, here we go again with the using me, etc. I can only count my true friends on one hand.. that would only be 2.

With all that being said, I have to admit I haven't called or text her much either. My issue with her constant negativity and inability to see reasoning was standing in my way. Seemed like no matter what advice I gave, she still continued to behave in the same way. Not saying for her to stay with Chris, but there was/is no need for all the hateful vindictive behavior on her part. It is not my place to judge and what goes around comes around. How do I stand by and watch her self-destruct no matter what I said..

I have lost both my parents within 5 months. I am blessed with an amazing husband, wonderful kids, a supportive brother and sister-n-law and an Uncle and Aunt who are always here for me. But I am dealing with my own emotional drama. I'm unsure of how to handle things as it is. My thought was to distance myself from all situations until I can get my own self together. On the outside, one may think I have it together and all is good with me. On the inside, is a whole different story!

So, the question is... do I distance myself from this situation or do I give in and act like all is good, etc. I tried the latter when she text me the one time before she wanted me to keep Jen... but the more I ponder on it, the more hurt and used I feel. That was when I decided not to respond when she wanted me to keep Jen... What to do, what to do? What is the right thing to do?

LESSON LEARNED: distance yourself from negativity and drama in order to keep your own mindset in check.

EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER

2010-02-10T19:10:00.001-06:00

It has been 8 days now since my mom has passed. I, again, am on the emotional roller coaster like I was when dad passed back in August. I am still having a hard time dealing with losing him and now I have lost my mom. One minute I'm holding it together and the next I'm bawling and squalling.

Thomas and the boys have been wonderful. I feel so guilty. I don't think I have cooked in over 2 weeks. I haven't cleaned the house as well as I normally do, etc. Thomas has been trying so hard to keep the stress off of me and even made me a hair apt for today. All I could do was cry.

I am going to try and get my cleaning routine back in gear as well as cooking up some home cooked food. Maybe staying busy will help some. That will be my first goal. School studies will be next on the agenda of getting back on track.

LESSON LEARNED: One day at a time is all one can do when dealing with grief. Try to focus on the happy times with your loved ones.

CHRISTOPHER NON RESPONSIVE

2010-01-24T18:50:00.001-06:00

My eldest son, Christopher (17), passed out at church this past Wednesday. He was non responsive for 15 minutes. ER Dr. says dehydration and possible enlarged heart. Mom was Life Flighted to Beaumont ICU the very next day. Therefore, I have been unable to get him to a Cardiologist. His tooth abscess is much better and goes back to the dentist on Tuesday, 26th for re-evaluation. I will have to schedule a root canal which will be $450. He is feeling better at this point and his blood pressure is back to normal.

LESSON LEARNED: Always drink plenty of fluids no matter how bad you feel.

MOM IN ICU

2010-01-23T21:09:00.001-06:00

Mom has been in the hospital as of 1/13 this time. She was Life flighted to Beaumont ICU on 1/21. She has viral pneumonia (meds won't help because it's not bacterial), had a large pericardial infusion (pulled a liter of fluid away from her heart), whole body is completely swollen with fluid, kidneys are barely working, blood pressure is rising again which is an indicator that fluid is building around her heart again. They are going to have to redo her central line which is dangerous.

I had to throw a fit at the nursing home to even get them to send her to the hospital. They kept trying to patronize me and tell me nothing was wrong. I had to throw a fit for them to even get her vital signs. So let's see.. she has been gone this long and absolutely no one at all from there has called me to check on her or even see what is going on with her! Don't think I'm not gonna eventually say something to them. Think I might go pay them a visit on Monday.

LESSON LEARNED: Always stand up for the one's who cannot help themselves. You might be the only advocate they have. You just might save their life in the process.

SOFTWARE RESEARCH

2010-01-10T00:48:00.001-06:00

Due to fussy youngin's and company, I decided to spend the day researching. I ended up purchasing a text expander called "Fast Fox" compatible with Mac for the moment. I have a strong feeling I will end up putting Windows with Parallels back on my laptop in order to use Instant Text. It is much pricer but feel it will make me become much more productive in the future. I have also downloaded Express Scribe in order to control the sound file speeds when it is time for me to begin the transcribing part of this course.

It is very overwhelming seeing all the resources available and trying to determine what will be best for you. I have a huge concern, once I get in the work force, of Mac compatibility. I have ways of converting for the mac to use, but unsure of a PC ability to convert it back or if I can figure a way to keep it in a PC conversion to start with. I suppose I need to search the forums and look into it. Maybe I can find some working MTs that have already encountered this issue. I know it is still real early to begin worrying about that, but I always want my ducks in a row before I get to the obstacle.

LESSON LEARNED: Keep your ducks in a row and try to be prepared for anything

BOUGHT LESSONS WELL LEARNED

2010-01-10T00:41:00.000-06:00

At least one would think so! Heard a story a couple of days and thought I would share. Last winter, there was a lady whose entire plumbing busted due to a hard freeze. She had to replace EVERYTHING. This year, the same lady did not take precautions AGAIN. No need for further explanation, I would think. You guessed it! ALL of it busted again.

LESSON LEARNED: Mark down your mistakes and learn from them!

NEVER DISAGREE IN FRONT OF ANYONE

2010-01-09T12:39:00.000-06:00

When one of you is discipling the kids and you disagree, never disagree in front of the youngins. If you do, it will under mind the other parent. As a result, the kids think that what that parent says doesn't matter, therefore, losing respect for them and losing respect for their authority. Once, it is over, then the two of you need to discuss what happened away from the youngins.

Same thing goes for around other people. It all comes back down to respecting each other at all times even in public.

LESSON LEARNED: Don't disagree with your partner in front of anyone whether it be your youngin's or anyone else.

COMMUNICATION NECESSITY

2010-01-09T12:33:00.002-06:00

I believe that communication is the key to any successful relationship. No one needs to let the "little things" that are irritating just build up. If that is done, eventually, you will blow and it will be one huge mess. Always remember that once something is said, it can't be taken back. Don't talk about it when one or both of you are still upset or angry. Just tell the other that it isn't the best time to talk about it. Cool down, but make sure you don't go to bed without talking about it.

I have taken a page from my daddy... never go to bed mad. So even if you are irritated through out the day, it will have to be talked about that night regardless.

LESSON LEARNED: Don't let the little things build up.. you MUST TALK.

LAUNDRY GREMLIN CONTROL

2010-01-09T12:19:00.001-06:00

Some wonder how in the world to keep the laundry caught up when you are a family of 7 (5 kids, 2 adults, and even their friends at times). The gremlins get real busy at night. Laundry would be caught up when you go to bed. You wake up the next morning to find at least 2 more loads waiting on you, lol.

First thing is first, it is an EVERY day chore. I keep mine and Thomas' separate from the kids.

One of the first morning chores is to get the laundry going. By the time the boys get home from school, the load in the dryer is done. I run it on "touch up" to warm them back up right before they get home. I pull them and have the boys sit in the room where I am folding. I start pulling clothes and tossing to whom they belong to. They then fold their own and put them away. They also get tossed evenly the towels, wash clothes, etc. that they have helped the gremlins collect.

I do 2 loads a day that way. The second load is ours and I do do those myself.

LESSON LEARNED: They help dirty them up, they can help take care of it. There is no need for fuss if you have them sitting right there so they can't get sidetracked.

CAREER STEP JOURNEY

2010-01-04T21:28:00.001-06:00

I have been enrolled since mid April of 2008.. would make it almost 2 years. Everything seemed to keep holding up progress. At the time, Jeremy wasn't in school yet, stress overload from the lawsuit (which we prevailed successfully) and the every day life of raising 5 boys. Then I had lost my daddy and my mom has been sick. I have only completed about 16 % of the course.

With the new year starting it is time to refocus, re-prioritize, and reorganize! I am anxious to get back on track and hopefully stay steady. I am determined to prove to myself and others that I CAN do this and be successful in the field as well.

I also plan to keep an ongoing progress report on here as I push through the course... kind of like a motivational tool for me. I will look into creating a spot on the blog itself for this instead of in a "post".

ONE PAGE AT A TIME is another place where I post my progress. I created this thread in hopes to be supportive to other students as well.

LESSON LEARNED: Take steps to be accountable for yourself.

BACK ON TRACK WITH SCHOOL

2010-01-01T22:56:00.002-06:00

Well, once again, I have high hopes of getting back on track with my studies. I should have finished two years ago! Seems like something always tended to distract me. Here it is a new year. Once I can get my house organized, I will be able to get focused. That is the plan, anyway.

I worked some on my "to do" list which entails going through drawers, filing cabinet, etc. Tomorrow, I plan to get the laundry caught up and the closet/bathroom drawers done. Hopefully, by Monday I will be ready to get back in full force on my studies.

I know how proud Thomas was of me when I first started this endeavor. I hope not to disappoint him. He wants me to do whatever makes me happy. Having never been a quitter, I'm not about to start now. Problem is that I will need to purchase extensions again.. money is really tight at the moment. It will be that way for the next 10 months. My time runs out in March.

LESSON LEARNED: If you can stay focused and on track, you can accomplish anything!

THOUGHTFUL GIFTS

2009-12-30T13:38:00.000-06:00

Thomas and I have been together for almost three years. I have always aimed to come up with gifts that I have put a lot of thought into.

For example, I found his watch that his dad gave him for his high school graduation that he had put up. The crystal was cracked and it didn't work. I sneaked it off and had it fixed for him and gave it back to him as a gift.

He loves Cuban Bread and the only place he can get it is Tampa, FL. I contacted his dad and he shipped me several loaves of it for him. I also ordered the Quava Paste that you can't get here, either.

I acquired a recipe for his Nana's Fruit Cake (she has passed away) and a picture of her and her husband, as well as, a picture of her kitchen. I put all of that nicely on a piece of card stock and made the cake for him. He had no idea where I was getting my info, giggle. I eventually fessed up and told him that his cousin Amy was my source. He had no idea I even communicate with her.

I know there is a book regarding his family's genealogy that he is wanting to get. Supposedly, his Uncle has it. His father is also wanting a copy of it. I am going to attempt to get a hold of it and make several copies of it.

We have recently marred on December 20th 2009 and I have already started thinking about our first anniversary. I have contacted Yahoo Personals (where we met) in hopes to get a copy of our profiles at the time we met. I would like to put together a little "history" book for him. Unfortunately, I do not have a good feeling about Yahoo Personals cooperating. I have tried to search myself, but Thomas and I have both pulled our profiles off of there after I moved in with him almost 3 yrs ago.

LESSON LEARNED: It is always the gifts that a lot of thought has been put into that mean the most. Also, save everything, lol.

THOUGHTS FOR THE NEW YEAR

2009-12-26T11:39:00.003-06:00

This year has brought so much chaos and mental anguish. Losing my daddy, stress from the lawsuit, house remodel, etc. It is time to get my home back to some kind of normalcy. Time to rethink where my life is going and put into motion a new game plan.

First on the agenda is to get my house reorganized. I need to go through drawers, closets and the such to filter out the clutter. The dreaded filing cabinet is a must have to. I have been avoiding it like the plaque.

Second, to get my Career Step materials organized. Need to get a new study plan together and get back on track. I should have finished 2 years ago... too much stress was always throwing a kink in things.

Third, back to my Body Bugg diet plan, Maybe if I can stick to it this time I might find more energy and feel better. Eating right wasn't the problem. It was getting motivated to do the exercise. I am currently back to 173 and need to get down to 115.

Fourth, try to do things for me that are relaxing. Make time for long hot baths, get a bit of crafting done, etc.

Fifth, work on crafts for Birthdays and Christmas gifts throughout the year. This will be in hopes to decrease some of the stress levels.

Sixth, organize my time more wisely. My calendar is my lifesaver. I always have so many irons in the fire and never enough time.

I need to de-clutter my computer to be able to get my new game plan into place. If I don't stay organized, everything turns to total chaos, stress, and then I want to throw my hands up, lol. Time to get this all in motion before the new year begins.

LESSON LEARNED: Try to stay organized so that day to day life doesn't cause you great amounts of stress. Always fit some "you" time in there somewhere.

BECOMING SCROOGE

2009-12-23T16:17:00.003-06:00

Christmas used to be my favorite time of the year. Family, fireplace, hot chocolate, traditional Christmas flicks and the aroma of baked goodies coming from the kitchen. The excitement from the kids has always been priceless. Every since I lost daddy in August.. nothing has been the same. I'm not sure if I can ever get back to that "happy place." I find myself just going through the motions in hopes to not ruin everyone else's spirit. I hate to admit it, but I'm even skipping the Christmas dinner. I had always laid out a huge spread for the feast. Just not into it at all. With the wedding being a week prior, opened gifts the day after and so much food left from the reception... just don't see the point of a huge feast.

LESSON LEARNED: realize the mental issue and try to overcome it before the next holiday season.

HOUSE FULL OF TEENAGERS

2009-12-12T20:23:00.001-06:00

Three days of many teenagers under one roof. Think I ended up with a total of 30. Half of those will be staying another night. Reason: Christopher's 17th birthday. A bunch of good kids, though. They all seem to be having a good time. I would much rather them all be here than somewhere else where I can't oversee things. There are so many that the church bus is coming all the way out here to pick them up in the morning. Jeremy has ended up being their "mascot." He has been right in the middle of all of them playing XBox 360, etc. They have a lot of fun with him. Jeremy thinks he's one of them, lol.

LESSON LEARNED: Try to get your kids and their friends to hang at your house so you can make sure they stay SAFE!

SEASONS GREETING

2009-12-11T22:54:00.001-06:00

MySpace Graphics

PURE INNOCENCE

2009-12-10T00:37:00.001-06:00

I kept Miss Jen today (4 months old)... what a pleasure she is! So tiny and precious. Here Thomas wasn't sure I would know what to do with a girl, lol. I showed him! We played, laughed, cuddled and just hung out. What a joy she is! Strange how no matter how much stress you have going on or overwhelmed you are... the pureness of a baby seems to make it all melt away. She will be blessing me with her presence again tomorrow.

I think everyone enjoyed her being here including Troubles. Troubles was a bit jealous and wanted Thomas and mine's constant attention. He adores her though. He kept checking on Jen and turning his head sideways cocking his ears if she made a noise at all. It was so sweet. When Ronda was pregnant with her, he was like an old mother hen with Ronda.

Jeremy wanted to know whose baby. I would tell him. Then he would ask if the baby was going home. I would say yes... (here's the kicker)... Jeremy wants to know why she has to go home and why can't she stay.

LESSON LEARNED: When overwhelmed, take a deep breathe and borrow someone's baby, lol.

TEENAGE SPOIL PREVENTION

2009-12-04T09:27:00.004-06:00

Do we all remember those days? How things have changed! Problem is, our hearts get bigger than our brains when it comes our turn to raise the teenager. Back in the day, we didn't have mom and dad dishing out the doe for this and that. With that being said, it never really bothered us all that much. We still managed to have a good time and find other means. These days, we are having a hard time saying "no" when the hand comes out wanting. It is time to bring in the reigns a little to teach responsibility about earning the things you have and want.

We are very fortunate that he is much more responsible than we were at that age. He has given us no reason to not trust him at this point. If he goes anywhere, he always calls and checks in frequently. He is involved in multiple sports, very active in church, and yet still manages to keep an A average in school. Sometimes, we make him slow down so we can see what he looks like. Don't get me wrong, despite his continued show of responsibility, we still never under estimate our children; there could always be a first.

We have told him to concentrate on school and enjoy his teenage years. Therefore, not to worry about getting a job for spending money unless he wants to during the summer. It is time to clarify that he still must earn that spending money we dish out. It has gotten to the point to where he expects the hand out when he comes to us. When we try to reign in slightly and tell him "no" at times, you can hear the sigh and disappointment that he didn't "get his way." Observation... we have spoiled the child. It is time to back up and regroup before it gets out of hand.

LESSON LEARNED: Don't spoil the child by always giving in. No matter how responsible they are in other areas, they still must learn to appreciate the things they have and earn the things they want.

WHAT WAS I THINKING?!

2009-12-03T20:33:00.008-06:00

Total chaos the month of December.... and to think I am trying to have a wedding this month with only 2 more weeks to plan. Between the usual Saturday night game nights, birthday party for my 17 yr old, a "to do" list a mile long, his family coming in for 4 days... wedding is suppose to fit in here somewhere. Think I need a personal assistant. lol. If it wasn't for my calendar, I would be in serious trouble. Let's add the plumber to come out, pool table people to come out, try to alter my dress by myself, get all the wedding decorations, put up Christmas lights outside and I still have to buy Christmas presents. Oh lets not forget buying groceries and trying to cook for the wedding reception and Christmas dinner. Can someone please come clone me?! So bad, I had misplaced the marriage license!... talk about panic!!!!! (found it!) Sure hope I don't forget to go pay that J.P.

I feel like I am neglecting my online friends. They also have exciting news! I have been so wrapped up that I haven't had a chance to catch up. I sure hope they forgive me!

LESSON LEARNED: Stay organized and tackle one thing at a time. If you don't, it will become very overwhelming.