a sunday lesson...

I have decided to post a lesson each Sunday from notes from classes or sermons. It is a good way for me to meditate upon God's word more throughout the week.

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THANK GOD FOR GOD.

With this being the week of Thanksgiving festivities; family and friend gathering together to enjoy fellowship and friendship, opportunities being taken to remember all that we have to be thankful for, we must remember to thank God for God.

In James 1:16-17, we are shown that God is the provider of all things good and perfect. It doesn't take much effort to look around our lives and see all that we are blessed with. Without God, our lives are devoid of light and goodness. We are creatures with no hope--following a god of inconsistency and darkness.

Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.{I John 1:16-17}

Be thankful for GOD....

...because He is all powerful; omnipotent.

I John 4:4 comforts us by letting us know that we can overcome false teachers; those that test our spirit because our God is greater than all that may come against us.

You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world. {I John 4:4}

... because He is good.

We sing a song with our girls, "My God is so good, so strong and so mighty. There's nothing my God cannot do.
And He is.

...because He is love.

What greater love can be shown than that which has been shown to us by God. He has prepared an eternal home for the faithful and He sacrificed His only Son so that those that are obedient to His word can live in His presence in eternity .

The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. {I John 4:8-10}

...because He is incorruptible.

Though we are sinners, falling short of God's word, God is sinless. God is truth and light and is faithful to His word.

...in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised long ages ago... {Titus 1:2}

This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. {I John 1:5)

...because He is patient with us.

Throughout all of history, mankind has shown hatred, apathy, disregard for God and His love for us. Yet, with all of the followers of sin; the neglect of the truth, God has remained patient. Christ has not returned to take the faithful to heaven because God wants all to have the opportunity to accept Him in their lives and be baptized for the remission of our sins. He wants none to perish.

The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. {2 Peter 3:9}

...because He is faithful.

God is unwavering in His desire for our obedience. He does not falter in what He requires of ALL man for their salvation. He is consistent in His love for us. He has promised a glorious home in heaven for those who live a faithful life. He will not turn away from us. He means what He says, and He says what He means.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful {Hebrews 10:23}

There are times in our lives that we may questions the 'goodness' of God; the presence of God in our lives. There are times when we are confronted with heartache, uncertainty, and temptations. Times we question 'Why?'; 'Why me?'. Times we feel our Lord has left us. That we are alone. But we are not. Our God is a gracious, patience, loving, merciful God. Our God is a God that we can lean on; that we can give all of our troubles to. Our God is good.


Thank God for God!!!!

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Today marks the.....

end of November...wow, how this year has flown!

beginning of the Christmas season....I am not sure I am ready for that!

end of NABLOPOMO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I made it.

30 post in 30 days.

You wouldn't think that writing about something everyday for 30 days would be difficult, but it was exhausting at times.

I enjoyed it. It was great to actually do something with my time. To use some 'brain power'!!??

Now I can waste my nights just surfing the net for useless information!!

But it is over.

NaBloPoMo 2008 has come to a close.

There is always next year to look forward to!!!!

today is the day....

UPDATE:
Did Auburn even show up???????

Alabama: 36
Auburn: 0

It's a good thing they won!
Things would be U.G.L.Y. in The Shoals if The Tide had fallen!!!!!!

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I believe it began 30 minutes ago.

I can imagine the scene at the Hunters...
everyone decked out in their blue and orange crimson and gray
all eyes glued to the t.v.
calmly taking in the activities flashing before them yelling and screaming at the television...

The undefeated Crimson Tide is on the field playing thrashing their rival team Au...I better not even put their name in the same post as The Tide....

Well, in the spirit of friendship....

ROLL TIDE!!!!!

santa has to start over....

To begin with, yes we do allow our children to 'believe' in Santa.

Yes, we perpetuate the story of Ol' Saint Nick.

We most certainly believe!!!

When Michaela was about 3, we decided that we were going to change how many presents Santa left under the tree.

We listened to the two or three items she would tell Santa she liked.

'Santa' would then bring ONE of the items--because he needs to have enough room in the sleigh for everyone's gifts.

Santa was so proud of himself this year.

He NEVER shops early, but about a month ago, the interactive baby doll that he knew would be on the wish list was found for about 60% less than normal, so it was purchased!

Yoo hoo...

Santa gift
Saved money

Okay, so maybe my closet wasn't the best spot for Santa to leave Emma's present.

Maybe, Santa should have considered that Emma might go into my closet to look for Michaela's slipper--because MY closet is the first place I would look for Michaela's slipper????

So, the doll was discovered, with MUCH excitement--from Emma, Of course, I wanted to scream in frustration!!!!

The doll is still in the closet. It WILL be under the tree--with a tag from Mommy and Daddy instead of Santa.

And Santa has to start over.

I hope Emma can come up with something else because the only other item on her Santa list was a $500.00 stuffed horse she saw at H*me G**ds!!!!

*** I knew my chronic procrastination was a positive personality attribute!!!!!!

happy thanksgiving...

I hope on this day of thanksgiving, you were blessed with family and friends, that you had more food than you could eat, and that your day was filled with love, laughter, and thankfulness.

As you were surrounded by those that you love, I hope you had time to think about what you are thankful for.

And I hope the list was long.

Because we are all so blessed.

By a God that is good.

maybe the rules have changed...

I mean, I have been living in England for three years. I have been driving on the right side of the car and on the left side of the road for over a 1000 days. Maybe I have forgotten proper driving rules in America.

After all, when I left, drivers drove in the right hand lane unless passing. They did not stay in the left lane of the motorway refusing to get over into the completely CLEAR right lane. They did not require the the passing driver to get into the right lane and go around them. Nope. All passing was done on the left.
Hey wait, maybe all of these drivers are from the UK and they forgot that we pass on the left and not the right.

I'm just saying!!

Merging etiquette seems to have changed also. I was under the impression that if you are driving down the motorway, in the right-hand lane, and you are coming upon an entrance ramp, you move over to another lane. This allows the oncoming cars to safely enter the motorway. They do not have to come to a stop in the merging lane and attempt to enter 70-80 mph traffic at a slower speed. The cars on the motorway move over, the merging traffic enters the motorway safely.

Again, I could be mistaken!

I guess I had better go to the DMV and read up on the new driving rules so I too can be a rude, self-absorbed driver.

rant over....

until I drive down 71 S again!!!!

what I am thankful for...

There are so many things in my life that I am thankful for.

• a roof over my head
• my children
• the church we attend
• the ability to pay our bills
• my friends

The one 'thing' in my life that I am most thankful for is my husband.

Yes he is frustrating and annoying at times.

Yes, he does not do things in my 'time frame' often, {isn't really sounding like a post of praise, is it?}

He is a typical man:)

BUT.....

He is the sweetest, most generous man I know.

He rarely says 'No'--not even to my crazieat requests.

He gets up with the girls to get them ready for school.

He lets me sleep in.

He does laundry/dishes/cooking.

He paints--even though he hates it.

He holds my hair back and rubs my back when I am ill.

He irons his own clothes.

He gives my pedicures--and will kill me when he reads this.

He reads stories to Emma.

He helps Michaela with her homework.

He takes care of a dog he did not want.

....the list could go on and on.

Steve, thank you for being the Christian husband and father that you are.

a prayer for parents...

We, as parents, pray for our children daily.
We pray that they will grow up to be happy, healthy God-fearing adults.
We pray for all that is good to come to them.

We, as parents, should pray for ourselves.
We should pray that we have the wisdom to guide them in the way they should go.
We, as parents, should pray that we can be the proper examples to our children; an example that teaches them Christian values and morals.


Dear Heavenly Father,

Make me a better parent. Teach me to understand my children, to listen patiently to what they have to say and to answer all their questions kindly.

Keep me from interrupting them, talking back to them and contradicting them. Make me as courteous to them as I would have them be to me.

Give me the courage to confess my sins against my children and to ask them forgiveness when I know that I have done them wrong.

Grant that I may never vainly hurt the feelings of my children. Forbid that I should laugh at their mistakes or resort to shame and ridicule as punishment.

Let me not tempt my child to lie or steal. So guide me hour by hour that I might demonstrate by all I say and do that honestly produces happiness.

Reduce, I pray, the meanness in me. May I cease to nag, and when I am out of sorts, help me O Lord, to hold my tongue. Blind me to the little errors of my children, and help me to see the good things they do.

Give me a ready word to honest praise. Help me to grow up with my children, to treat them as those of their own age, but let me not expect of them the judgments and conventions of adults.

Allow me not to rob them of the opportunity to learn for themselves, to think, to choose and to make decisions. Forbid that I should ever punish them for my selfish satisfaction.

May I grant them all their wishes that are reasonable,
And may I have the courage always to withhold a privilege which I know will do them harm.

Make me fair and just, and considerate and companionable to my children that they will have a genuine esteem for me. Make me fit to be loved and imitated by my children.

Amen.

quoted in "Dear Abby."
author: Garry C. Myers

worry not...

6. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7.And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7

During our lives there are always moments of the unknown. There are always times we are uncertain about what life has in store for us. The three years with the Air Force certainly lead to MANY times of frustration; times of wondering 'what next'? I feel that in those three years, I grew in my ability to handle times of stress with grace. Or at least with more grace than I had in the past. Having returned to the States has not alleviated the 'unknown'; uncertainty is still a major part of our day to day life. Do I handle it as I should? Some times. Do I need to do better? Every day! Not knowing what our job situation will be when the savings account runs out certainly has caused me to worry about our future. It is easy to say, "I have given it to God." Actually allowing God to work in our lives in His time is difficult--especially for someone that likes to have things in control to be in control of all things. My worry manifests itself in impatience with my family, cynicism with the world, and a lack of desire to be productive in any aspect of my life. I become overwhelmed with the 'worry' and I lose control of the day to day aspects of life.

WORRY, in Greek, is defined as having a divided mind. Solomon wrote that, "an anxious heart weighs a man down. We are commanded by God to be anxious for nothing. We are to rely on Him for our needs. God has promised to take care of our needs. When we worry, we are telling God that we do not have faith in what He has promised us. We are sinning.

There are areas of our lives that we should have legitimate concerns about-our health, our souls, our children, our eternal salvation. We can be concerned, but we are commanded to not worry.

What is the difference between concern and worry?

Concern focuses on legitimate responsibilities and probable difficulties and produces meaningful action.

Worry focuses on improbable things and negative self talk that produces no meaningful outcome. Worry is based on fear NOT fact.

Fear is the opposite of faith. It s a symptom of a lack of faith. It is a failure to trust in God. Worry is the prayer to the wrong God.

Worry tells us that 'I am on my own.", but God tells us in Hebrews 13:5 ...I will never desert you, nor will I forsake you.

Worry shows our unbelief, but Romans 8:28 states: And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

Worry proclaims, "I can't" but Philippians 4:13 assures us that all things are possible through Christ. {I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.}

Worry is assuming a responsibility God never intended us to have. By worrying, we are telling God that WE are in control; that we do not trust Him or need Him. We are turning our back on Him.

There will always be unknowns in our lives. There will always be times of uncertainty. Life is unpredictable. Bad things happen to good people. As Christians, we have the blessing of a heavenly Father that is always there to listen to our fears and desires. God has promised never to forsake us. He will bear our burdens if only we ask.

We must do OUR part.

We have to maintain our faith and trust in God.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." {Deuteronomy 31:6}

We have to control our thoughts.
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. {Philippians 4:8}

We must take meaningful action.
The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. {Philippians 4:9}

We must turn to God daily in prayer.
Hear my prayer, O LORD! And let my cry for help come to You. {Psalm 102:1}

We must give God our concerns.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. {John 14:27}

We must remember....
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. {Matthew 6:24}

We I must remember that I am nothing without God.
That I need Him.

i am thankful for...

Emma Shea's Thankful list

1. family
2. friends
3. baby dolls
4. world
5. Thanksgiving

timing is everything...

i was soooo excited.

my friend told me about this website that allows you to watch television shows on your computer.

yes, I know it probably has been around forever, but I have been living across the pond for over three years and had not heard about it.

and yes, i know you can watch it on television but, we do not have any antenna or satellite to watch anything on television. we limit the girls to dvds and netflix shows we choose.

so...

i will not have to wait for the end of the current season of brothers and sisters and grey's anatomy for them to be available on Netflix.

yoohoo!!

i just went online.

i finished downloading the necessary stuff {that's the technical term}.

I clicked on grey's

and....

i can only see the last 5 episodes.

AAAAHHHHH.....

episode one 1, 2, 3, and 4 are not available anymore.

AAAAAHHHHHH......

brothers and sisters--- the same!!!

AAAAAHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!!

technology is great...

as long as your timing is right!!!

we seem to be rushing our lives away...

It seems that everywhere I look Christmas is being celebrated already--people have their trees up and Christmas music is being played everywhere. It is sad to me that the holiday that represents thankfulness and gratitude is being overshadowed by the holiday of want. The Thanksgiving holiday seems to be getting pushed further and further into the shadows; we go straight from Halloween (another holiday of getting) to Christmas. We have been a society of greed and selfishness for such a long time, we have forgotten to be thankful.
So, take a few minutes everyday.
Look around your life.
Make a list of what you are thankful for, rather than making a list of what you want.

Facts:

1. Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November in the United States.
2. By the fall of 1621 only half of the pilgrims, who had sailed on the Mayflower, survived. The survivors, thankful to be alive, decided to give a thanksgiving feast.
3. Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the second Monday in October in Canada.
4. The Plymouth Pilgrims were the first to celebrate the Thanksgiving.
5. The pilgrims arrived in North America in December 1620.
6. The Pilgrims sailed across the Atlantic Ocean to reach North America.
7. The pilgrims sailed on the ship, which was known by the name of 'Mayflower'.
8. They celebrated the first Thanksgiving Day in the fall of 1621.
9. They celebrated the first Thanksgiving Day at Plymouth, Massachusetts.
10. The drink that the Puritans brought with them in the Mayflower was the beer.
11. The Wampanoag Indians were the people who taught the Pilgrims how to cultivate the land. 12. The Pilgrim leader, Governor William Bradford, had organized the first Thanksgiving feast in the year 1621 and invited the neighboring Wampanoag Indians also to the feast.
13. The first Thanksgiving feast was held in the presence of around ninety Wampanoag Indians and the Wampanoag chief, Massasoit, was also invited there.
14. The first Thanksgiving celebration lasted three days.
15. President George Washington issued the first national Thanksgiving Day Proclamation in the year 1789 and again in 1795.
16. The state of New York officially made Thanksgiving Day an annual custom in 1817.
17. Sarah Josepha Hale, an editor with a magazine, started a Thanksgiving campaign in 1827 and it was result of her efforts that in 1863 Thanksgiving was observed as a day for national thanksgiving and prayer.
18. Abraham Lincoln issued a 'Thanksgiving Proclamation' on third October 1863 and officially set aside the last Thursday of November as the national day for Thanksgiving. Whereas earlier the presidents used to make an annual proclamation to specify the day when Thanksgiving was to be held.
19. President Franklin D. Roosevelt restored Thursday before last of November as Thanksgiving Day in the year 1939. He did so to make the Christmas shopping season longer and thus stimulate the economy of the state.
20. Congress passed an official proclamation in 1941 and declared that now onwards Thanksgiving will be observed as a legal holiday on the fourth Thursday of November every year.

For more Thanksgiving activities and fun quizzes, check out this site.

wordless wednesday...

not a look of joy....

'not me' monday...

I guess I should look at the time before I post--12:38am is actually Tuesday:):)

I DO NOT have any 'Not Me(s)' this week because I have done nothing. I have a full life and most certainly would have many things to write about that I DID NOT do this week. So, I am sure if you scroll down you will find lots of things I did NOT do:)

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NOPE--NOTHING!!!

Have a great Monday!!!!!!

my first meme...

I have never participated in a meme before, but I figured I would give it a go.

5 things you want your kids to learn--before they grow up

1. There will always be people who are not considerate of others--at all ages. These people think only of themselves; they are mean. Do not lose your kindness. Let your light shine.

In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets. {Matthew 7:12}

2. Do your best in all that you do. You may not always end up with the outcome you expected or desired, but as long as you have given it your all, you have succeeded!

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." {Philippians 4:13}

3. Choose your husband carefully. Marriage is forever. Your husband should be a man that shows you love and respect. He should be a man that you can show love and respect to.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her. {Ephesians 5:25}

4. Stand fast in your convictions. Do not give into peer pressure. Know what you believe and defend your morals.

But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good... {I Thess. 5:21}

5. Life will bring it's own stresses and difficulties. Do not go looking for them. Find laughter and humor in circumstances that may seem insurmountable at the time you are going through them.Trials come--grow from them. Build character with each hardship.

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose {Romans 8:28}

What do you want to teach your children?

parenting...it is hard!!!!...

The sermon at church tonight was the first of two on parenting. It is amazing to me how God provides what we need. I have had a very difficult time parenting one of my children lately. Tears have been spilled from my eyes and prayers for wisdom offered up. God provided me support and guidance with a Sunday evening sermon.

I will add the insights as soon as I have them in a coherent form:)

~From God with Love ~

~Author Unknown~

Children are a blessing sent from God above. For us to care and nurture and most of all to love. God calls us to be parents and gives us all the tools. And when we feel like giving up, our strength He will renew. Children are a gift from God that He so freely lends. To make it through the childhood years, on Him we must depend. He must have a presence, you see it must take three. The parents, child and Christ at the center to be a family. From childhood days to a child full grown. Their joys and hurts are a parent's own. Times of joy and laughter and those times of tears. The times spent raising a child are surely the best of years. There comes that time in life when a child will leave the nest. We must send them off with love and a prayer and leave to God the rest. We've have shared the Word of God, we've taught them right from wrong. Now it's time to let them go and let them write their song. The faith instilled, the examples lived, and the lessons taught. All gifts that we've given our child, which will never be forgotten. There are many paths a child can take, right or wrong will remain unknown. But rest assured that in the end, they all lead back to home.

more to come....

snippets from a lazy saturday...

The weather has changed once again.

It is cold and rainy.

But we are having great family Saturday--snuggling by the fire, eating chips and salsa from Margaritas, and watching a movie on NETFLIX.

What could be better?

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Emma Shea has come up with a few new phrases this week--besides the evil ones that come out when the demon possesses her.

*While Michaela, Emma, and I were walking through the store; Michaela talking non-stop, Emma looked at her and said, "Shhhhh!!! I would like some peace and quiet."

She said she has heard me say that--I cannot imagine that. I love to hear my daughters' lyrical voices nonstop. I hang on their every word.:o}

*Tonight Michaela went into the kitchen to get a drink. Emma looked at her and said,"Would you kindly please get me a glass of water?" Kindly please?????

****This politeness after a VERY difficult morning, afternoon, day.

*Her favorite word has changed from 'actually' to 'eventually'.

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YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!! I figured out how to put a strike-through in my post.

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I cannot believe I forgot to post for NABLOPOMO on Thursday.

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It's the most wonderful time of the year day---bedtime for anyone with 4 legs or under the age of 13!!!

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It is adult time--no whining {unless I don't get to choose the movie:)}, no crying {unless I choose to watch Brian's Song:( }, no interruptions!!!

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Hope you have a great evening. Talk to you tomorrow!!

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just a little reminder to myself...

because it has been one of those weeks--and being a parent is H.A.R.D.

Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.

Psalm 127:3 Boy, does she know how to push the limits. Pray for my patience...and her survival:)

You are being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might, so that you might patiently endure everything with joy
Colossians 1:11

Instead, in every way we demonstrate that we are God's servants by tremendous endurance in the midst of difficulties, hardships, and calamities...
2 Corinthians 6:4

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13

In Your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; Incline Your ear to me and save me.
Psalm 71:2

a glimpse into his world...

why does he try?

after 21 years together. 21 years of my twisted logic and crazy scenarios. 21 years of usually shaking his head--in frustration or in amusement--but giving in to me.

he still gives it his best shot.

i just wonder why he doesn't just give in at the beginning of the request and avoid the crazy twisted road the conversation will most likely take:)

15 minutes ago:
the setting: our bedroom
me: oh, i forgot. i need to do a blog post for NABLOPOMO. The laptop is downstairs.
him: you better hurry up. it's almost 11:30.
me: would you please go get it?
him: i am already in bed. plus,my toe hurts from where i smashed it today.
me: my knee hurts. see. it's swollen.
him: it's dark and I don't want to turn on a light and wake the dog.
me: the hall lamp is on. you'll be fine.
him: no, i almost ran into the new shelf when i went down and let her out earlier.
me: oh, then you definitely better go. you already know how to maneuver in the dark. i might get really hurt.
him: looks at me with 'the look' that says, 'how do you come up with these things.'
me: plus, with my knee hurting, i may drop your laptop. i am only thinking of you. what would you do without your laptop. (you know, the one i ran over with the van!)
him: knowing he cannot refute my logic (i.e. wanting me to stop talking) goes down and brings me the laptop.

puppy crying fades in

me: thank you for getting the laptop
him: uh huh.
me: cali's crying. do you think she needs to go out?
him: i don't know. she just kept running into the evil neighbor's yard when i took her out before.
me: can you go let her out? she probably has to poo
him: no. i did not want a dog. she is your dog. you go.
me: how would you feel if you had to poo and no one would let you out to go?
him: again, 'the look'.
me: please.
him: it's your turn.
me: some bribes i won't mention:) {all said in jest}
him: laughing because he knows i am not serious in my bribery:)
me: you need to do all your turns in case you get that job and you are gone. i will be here doing everything all by myself.
him: uh huh
me: ummm. oh yeah, I am afraid to go outside at night. it is very dark.
him: muffled laughter in his pillow
me: seriously. why are you laughing. someone might take me and you will be asleep and you won't hear me screaming.
him: more muffled laughter
me: the fear ages me. you don't want me to look older do you?
him: 'the look'---again. shaking of the head added
me: i am only asking you to let the dog out. i am not asking you to jump in your car and go buy some popcorn. but....would you?
him: i am not going to go buy popcorn. you should have gotten it when you went shopping yesterday
me: I was too busy thinking about the needs of my family. i bought coffee AND creamer for you--without you having to remind me. i did not have time to think of my own needs. (not sure popcorn falls under the need category, but hey, when the martyr meter is going, you do what you have to:)}
him: we have carrots in the refrigerator. i will go get you some of them
me: okay. while you're down there, would you let the dog out. smile, smile
him: the look of defeat as he goes downstairs

10 seconds ago:
him: {upon his return from downstairs} that worked out well
the sound of a puppy crying in the background
me: did she go?
him: i don't know. she ran off into the evil neighbor's yard again.
the puppy crying getting louder and louder
his eyes glance at the computer screen. he rolls them
him: yeah, i see you're writing about me.
he rolls over and goes ot sleep.

i love you honey. you are the greatest. and just to let you know, as you sleep next to me, NOT snoring (ha'), the dog has finally stopped crying. but boy, popcorn would sure be yummy about now! this conversation was almost has good as the one we had when we were first married and i wanted new furniture. you should have learned then to give up :p

heros remembered...

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!

Thank you to my husband and his Air National Guard Unit.

Those going to the sandbox --you will be in our prayers.

Thank you to all military personnel, past and present. You are the reason we, as Americans, have the freedoms we do. Your sacrifices can never be understood by those who have not served, yet they are appreciated.

Thank you to the spouses who stay behind and keep the home running. You are the backbone to those fighting. You sacrifice more than anyone could ever imagine.

you've got a friend in me...

friend:–noun
1.a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard.
2.a person who gives assistance; patron; supporter
3.a person who is on good terms with another; a person who is not hostile:

Friendship takes time. It is something that requires work and attention. It is very easy to allow all the little things in life to consume us. What pays the price is our relationships. Maintaining friendship does not take grand gestures. Small, conscientious actions are what is needed to let the friends in your life know you are thinking of them and that you value their place in your life.

I have failed. I have been a terrible friend. I think about my friends every day, but I have not taken the time to let THEM know that. I am truly sorry!!
Amy, Holly, Keira, MaryAnn, Melanie, Renea, Roy, Shelley, Stephanie, Windy... thank you for putting up with me. Don't give up on me yet!!!!

Thank you for being a friend!!




I'll be there for you:):)

"not me" monday...

Check out MckMama’s blog to read what other bloggers DID NOT do this week.

I DID NOT let my sick 5 year old watch Netflix cartoons for hours upon hours today. She was sick. I most certainly would have had her in bed with lots of fluids. I am a good mommy who would not have paused the Netflix cartoon, wrap the feverish child in a blanket, and driven up to McDonalds because all that was in the house was peanut butter and water. I am Mom of the Year and I always have fresh fruits and veggies available. There is always stocked cupboards in my household. I DID NOT have to go through the drive-thru to give my sick child sustenance. Nope. Never. Not me.

I certainly DID NOT whoop out loud when I saw petrol for $2.09. And that means I definitely did not squeal with delight when it later went down to $1.99. I am always frugal with our money and I am not irresponsible enough to make trips in the van unless they are absolutely necessary. I NEVER just hop in the car and go to HOME GOODS to get out of these 4 walls. So how would I know when petrol prices drop?

Being the great example and devoted mother, I know I DID NOT stay up until 4:00am for 4 nights and 6:00am one other night to watch Netflix movies and the entire 4th season of Grey’s Anatomy. Staying up that late would cause me to be unable to get up in the morning to help the girls get ready for school. I would be so tired I would have to nudge my husband all 5 days and say, ‘Can you please get up with them today.” That would be pathetic. That would make me an irresponsible parent. Could not have been me.

And some of the movies I didn’t watch on Netflix were NOT horror shows. Watching horror shows would cause me to be jumpy and irrational when I had to stay by myself on Friday. I am more sensible with my choices. My choices would surely be all G rated cartoons!

Knowing we are trying to watch our dollars, I am sure I DID NOT take 4 showers in one day just to get warm. I would just put on a coat or sweater; wrap up with a blanket. 4 showers in one day! Not me. As I mentioned before, I am frugal.

I have NOT posted everyday on my blog, but NOT written any of my friends. This would be rude and make me a very bad friend!! And I always make time to write my friends.

I know I was not soooooo nervous for my husband and afraid I would want to ‘help’ him out during his interview, I DID NOT hide up in our bedroom while he was having a phone interview. I would be supportive and sit quietly while he answered the questions. I would be his rock. So again, it could not have been me.

I most certainly DID NOT make a Word document of items to add in my NOT ME post. That would mean I was slightly obsessed with blogging and that I have no life outside of these four walls. Oh wait, maybe I did do that because I have no life outside of these four walls.

And lastly, I know I DID NOT wish something really funny would happen to me so I could add it to my NOT ME post. That would be really, really sad!!

Have a great Monday.

Let me know you’ve been by to see me!!!!

introducing.....

cali

This is Cali.

She is the newest addition to our crazy, unsettled lives.

I had talked to Stephen about getting another dog--moment of insanity:) He was not in favor of the idea. He gave reasons like, "We don't need another mouth to feed." "We don't know where we are moving once I get a job." You know weak reasons:) But in typical fashion, I did not give into common sense. I showed him a picture of a Shorkie (a shih tzu/yorkie mix) His response was "We don't need a dog. But when we get one we need a big dog." We had looked at Old English Sheep dogs and Newfoundlands when we lived in England. OESD take alot of grooming, so the search for a Newfie began.I found CALI on PUPPYFIND. She was 7 weeks old and ready to come to a new home. I contacted the owner. We conversed for a week or so. Last Monday, I told the girls I had an appointment and I would see them later that evening. Michaela went with her friend Hannah B. to work with the Young Republican group, Emma got ready for her date at Chuckie Cheese's with her Daddy, and I proceeded to drive the 4 hours to Bailey Lakes, Ohio.

The surprise was better than I had imagine--I only wish I had it on video!!!!!

She is a good puppy. A typical puppy--but there is hope for a well trained adult dog. Puppy training begins in 2 weeks. Potty training is underway---hopefully she is a quick learner so I can get the 5 foot cage out of my kitchen and the doorways confining her to the kitchen unblocked:)

Facts about Cali:

*She was named Cali by the owner--third litter--all dogs named with 'C' names.
*She will weigh between 100 and 120 pounds (her dad weighed 150.)
*She has webbed feet--for swimming
*She will drool--UGH
*She is a worker dog
*She LOVES putting her foot on her water bowl and swishing all of the water out {cute the first time, not so much the 50th!}
*Her breed is known as the Gentle Giant--great family dog.
*Click here for more info on Newfoundlands.

life's little quandaries...

There are many things in life I do not understand.

Most things I do not try to understand. The price of petrol. Ear stretching. Football. They are what they are.

My trip to Wal-Mart for Children's Tylenol for Emma allowed me to add a few more items to me list of things not understood:

1. Salvation Army bell ringers in front of stores in November.

2. Christmas music being played in stores and on the radio in November.

3. Parents who take their young tired children out to shop way past their bedtime--and then yell at them the entire time they are in the store because they are acting up.

4. How petrol can be $1.57 at one exit and $2.29 at the next. {But I am not complaining about the $1.57!!!}

5. Did I mention Christmas music in November!!!!!

But I do understand why I usually shop at Target instead of Wal-Mart.

another fabulous friday...

Happy Friday.

I really have nothing to say tonight--actually I have plenty, but I do not have the energy to think.

So, everyone have a great Friday evening--what's left of it.
The girls have just gone to bed. Steve is in Monticello chopping wood, and I am going to find a movie on NETFLIX and stay up until the wee hours to watch it.
WOW-the glamorous life!!!!

I guess this counts as a post:)

repeat after me...

...i will not become my mother. i will not become my mother.

When does it happen? When do we cross over and say and do the things we swore as children we would NEVER do when we became parents? When do we become our parents??????

You walk into your newly painted living room, only to find a hand print on the wall. You see the small culprit coming down the stairs--dragging her hands down the stairway wall. You open your mouth. The words come out, but it is not your voice you hear. The voice saying, "KEEP YOUR HANDS OFF THE WALL." is the voice of YOUR MOTHER!!!!!

The culprit rolls her eyes and says, "When I am a parent, I will not tell my kids to keep their hands off the wall. It is just a wall."

Hence, the cycle of parent and child continues.

I can't wait until SHE"S a Mommy!!!!!!!!!

diy--lesson one...

HOW TO BUILD A WALL

...as done by Builder Emma Shea

Dig a trench

taking out as much dirt as possible.
Get help if you need it.
Sometimes it is very heavy!!

Grab a bag of sand to layer in the trench
...my helper says this gives the bricks a level place to sit.


Smooth out your sand
Make sure your bricks are level.

Flatten them out if needed.
Measure
Chisel away the extra bits
Stack the bricksPut the dirt back

Voila'!!! a wall

Now, if she could just come up with a landscaping plan!

shhh.. secret family recipe...

Addition... I thought I would add our secret family recipe for peanut butter lollies. So that everyone can enjoy them.

INGREDIENTS:

One jar of peanut butter {We prefer Jif Creamy, but you use whatever brand is your favorite.}

One spoon. The bigger, the better.

STEPS...

First, open jar of peanut butter.

Next, take the spoon and scoop a ginormous amount of peanut butter onto the spoon.

Then, enjoy--Emma chooses the small licking method, but experiment and find your favorite method of eating the lolly!!!

***This is a great recipe for those mornings when your darling tells you for the first 30 minutes she is awake that she IS NOT hungry, but as soon as it is time to go to the bus stop she is STARVING! It is simple enough for her to make and it travels well as you walk to the bus!!!

November is....

National Peanut Butter Lover's Month

Emma is thrilled!!

An entire month devoted to peanut butter lollies!!!!

just what we needed...

she says with a hint of sarcasm!!

Announcing...

Cali the Newfoundland

8 weeks old

"not me" monday...

Not Me Monday--A fun way to confess to the 'not so cool things' you may have done throughout the week--or not done:) This was started by MckMama at MyCharmingKids. Check out her blog and the amazing story of Stellan, the miracle baby.

Here goes...my first 'Not Me! Monday"

(1) I did NOT drive 8 hours, round trip, to pick up a puppy. Nope. Not me. That would make me crazy. A dog--when we do not know when Steve will get a job or where we will be living. Getting a puppy would add another mouth to feed and added expenses. Deciding to get a puppy now would show a lack of sense. And I always use my common sense and make practical, logical decisions. Definitely NO PUPPY CAME TO THIS HOUSE TODAY. I did not choose to buy a Newfoundland. NOT ME!!!

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(2) I certainly did not have to spank my 12 year old for being mouthy and rolling her eyes at her father. If I had to spank her that would mean my child was NOT the perfect, respectful well-mannered child I raised her to be. And because my 5 year old is always the picture of goodness and obedience, I did NOT have to punish her for telling a lie. I certainly did not have her take a bite of soap to wash the ugliness out of her mouth. I always use non-physical punishment. I am always the picture of the patience mother. So, that certainly was not me.

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(3) As I was driving down I-71, I did NOT see animals on the side of the road and ask outloud, "What are those?" and then answer, "Oh, they are sheep." This certainly could not have been me because a). I know my farm animals and b). I was alone in the car and that would mean I was talking to myself--and answering my own questions. I am too 'together' to talk to myself and I most certainly am not loony enough to ANSWER my questions. Again, this was NOT ME!!

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(4) It was not me that became annoyed when my husband said he was going to play golf tomorrow with Joe. Nope. Not me. Never. I am always the supportive wife! I realize he has been working very hard around the house. I certainly would not get aggravated because I want him here doing the rest of his honey do list. That would make my selfish. I always put my wants behind his. If this had been me, the conversation would have been more like, "Only one round? Are you sure you don't want to play two?" "What time do I need to be up to fix your breakfast and shine your clubs?" So, since the conversation did not go that way, it could NOT have been ME!!!

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(5) And lastly, (not because it is the last of the crazys, but because it is time to take the puppy, I did not get, outside to go potty and to her new bed) I did NOT stuff my face with the girls' M&M's and Milky Ways. I am watching what I eat and M&M's and Milky Ways are not calorie smart foods. I would only be seen eating carrot and celery sticks. I have no idea where all of the chocolate went, but it was NOT ME that ate it. Clearly, since my sweatpants are fitting fine it was NOT ME that had to wipe the evidence from my face!

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I was about to publish this post, but I needed to add one....

(6). It was NOT ME that just went down stairs to check on the puppy (Because we did not get one) only to find my husband sitting with her. It could not have been me that snapped a picture of him petting her and getting her used to the crate. He wanted no part of getting a dog. He was against the addition to our family, so I certainly did NOT hear him talking to her and comforting her. Not Me. Not my husband.

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i will not complain no matter the outcome...

With the upcoming Presidential election only two days away, the talk everywhere I have been has been about who is going to be the next President of the United States. Some voters are excited about the prospect of the first African-American president or the first woman Vice-President. Others voice fear over the future of America if this one wins. Or if that one wins. There are strong convictions on both sides of the vote.

I am not political. I AM a law abiding citizen that is very thankful for the freedom this country allows me. Yet, I am not interested in politics. I have never voted.

Okay, I will wait for the gasps to stop. Everyone picked their jaws up off the floor? What? Yes, I know it is my responsibility. Yes, I know many have died for me to have this right. Okay. Okay. I know 'every vote counts'. {which actually they do not in a Presidential election--if it did Al Gore would have been President), but even with these arguments, I do not vote.

Why do I not vote? Call me cynical, but I do not believe that what the candidates tell us during their campaigning is true. They ARE campaigning to win the ultimate political prize--Commander in Chief. They tell us what demographics tell them we want to hear. Do I have strong convictions about issues? Most definitely I do! Do I doubt that politicians hold firmly to their beliefs? Certainly if the beliefs are not popular with the constituents. I have a difficult time deciding between the lesser of two evils; deciding who is lying 'the least'. So I choose to not vote.

But you, please go out and vote on Tuesday. And while you are deciding your vote for the next leader of our country, consider the candidates political experience, not the impact of his skin color on history. Weigh out his belief on the value of life at all stages of development, not his charisma when he speaks. Determine if your nation will be safe from outside enemies with a leader that has no military experience. Honestly contemplate the future of the USA as we know it before you cast your vote on Tuesday.

I will not be in the voting booth on Tuesday, but I will be kneeling in prayer for the future of our 'one nation under God'.

nablopomo...

Okay, so it is National Blogging Post Month, NaBloPoMo, and I have taken the challenge to write 30 post for 30 days.

And...since it is 11:52pm, or 10:52 if I go by my clocks that have already been moved back for Daylight Savings Time :), I decided I had better get something posted before I fail---on DAY ONE!!!!

So this is it. My first post of thirty. A post about posting.