Wow, Just Wow

I have nothing else right now. Just spending a lot of my time on my knees searching for answers.

Seriously?

And then the world seems to fall apart bit by bit. When will it end. Standing firm but the winds feel like they are hurricane force. Stand Strong. Hold Tight. Breathe.

See You At the Pole

It's been a long time since I've blogged. Just haven't been able to make myself with everything that's going on, but had to take the time today.

Today is "See You at the Pole" day. This is a day when students gather around the flag pole at their schools for a time of prayer and/or worship to God. It is student led. It's held before classes began.

I knew the boys planned on going. I'd bought them t-shirts even. Just wasn't sure if they'd get up and get moving. It started at 7:00 a.m. My precious children got themselves up, dressed and out by 6:20. The only way I know this is because Rus sent me a message at 6:23 asking me to make sure I grabbed his wallet for him.

When I texted at 7:45 and asked if their were many people there, J texted back "yeah". I don't know how many I only know that my boys were there without shame and were not alone. I can't wait to find out more tonight, but right now I'm just proud.

"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." Ephesians 6:14-16

Blessings

No I did n't

I did not just make a double batch of rice krispie treats and hide half of it. Nu uh, not me, I wouldn't do that. Really . . .

Glorieta

A couple of weeks ago we took a group of youth to Glorieta, New Mexico for CentriFuge. It was an amazing trip which I will fill in later.

Just some quick thoughts:

• The devil worked overtime to try and squash the amazing things that God had planned. We stood firm and it didn't work.
• Praying for things by name, being incredibly specific, works. We lifted up some very specific prayer requests and not one of them was left unanswered. We must have the faith to ask using specifics.
• You must watch what you are saying and how you saying because you never know how someone is going to take it. When there is an overload of stress and people are tired, emotions get confusing and fuses get short. The devil will always keep working.
  

Just Call Me Switzerland

Just in case you didn't know it already, raising teenagers is a tough job. Keeping the peace is not easy. Helping them develop into responsible adults is not easy. Encouraging them to make the right choices is not easy. Being there for them when they are angry, hurt or confused is not easy. Understanding their feelings is not easy. But the end result is worth it.

Son: "Mom, I thought you said you were Switzerland."
Mom: "I did."
Son: "Switzerland kept her opinions to herself."
Mom: "I don't think so. Just because Switzerland remained neutral didn't mean she had no
opinion about the various sides. It simply meant that she refused to choose sides."



"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

Don't Judge a Book By It's Cover

I was watching "America's Got Talent" tonight and I was blessed.

The last performer was a lesson learned. I don't remember his name but he was an unemployed farmer. He wore a baggy shirt and had his hat on backwards. When he talked he sounded like a big time "good ole boy". He said he was going to sing and had his guitar. In my heart I was hoping it was good but fearing it was bad.

Then he opened his mouth and began to sing and everyone stared. He was unbelievable. He sang and he touched everyone.

Never judge a book by its' co er.

Let Them Eat Cake and Ice Cream and Pie and . . .

Well, Lou and I had a girl's night out last Tuesday. Her son and hubby were out of town and she doesn't do empty house well. Never understand that, I love empty house. Of course I like knowing they'll be coming home, but empty house rocks. Empty nest . . . don't even want to go there, but I digress.

Lou and I went to eat at Applebees. We ordered three out of four of their desserts. I had tea and she had milk. Our waiter said it was a first for him and the manager loved it. We got the blonde brownie with butter pecan ice cream and maple sauce. I'd give it 2 out of 3 stars, I like my mom's blonde brownies more.

We also had Triple Chocolate Meltdown: Chocolate cake with a fudge center and topped with milk and white chocolate and vanilla ice cream. We do love our chocolate and I'll give it a 2 out of 3 stars. Cake isn't my favorite and I don't like vanilla ice cream much.

We didn't have the chocolate chip cookie ice cream sundae because we'd had one like it at Cheddar's and we were going for new tastes. Probably a mistake on our part.

Our favorite was the Mile High Ice Cream Pie:

Mile High Ice Cream Pie

This pie-scraper starts with an OREO® cookie crust, filled with chocolate ice cream and layers of chocolate fudge and peanut butter. Then we add peanut butter ice cream, caramel swirls and peanut brittle. Finally, we drizzle it with hot fudge & caramel, and top it with whipped cream and OREO® cookie crumbs.

Picture and description taken from Applebee's site. It totally got 3 out of 3 stars. Should have ordered three of those. Joking... sort of.

After the dessert fest, we went to see "The Proposal". Loved it, loved it, loved it. Laughed all the way thru it. And yes, I did still have my buttered movie popcorn. How can you even think of going to a movie and not having popcorn? Really, now. . .

Great night with a great friend.

Will this year do me in?

Girl Drama! Didn't have to deal with it as much with boy 1, but boy 2 is already having girl drama!

I was already worried about this year since it's J's senior year. Although I love all the youth at church, the Class of 2010 are my babies. I've been teaching them in some way, shape or form since they were three years old. I don't mean in a little way, I mean in a big way.

Therefore, not only am I going to have to deal with my J's senior year, I must deal with all of their senior years. Guess I should buy stock in Kleenex.

R's been in a funky mood and I blew a gasket. Suddenly, I remembered that it was J's 10th grade year that he was in a funk. A very stressful funk. I spent more time than ever on my knees. So now, I have to deal with J's senior year and R's year of funk.

Praying for more stregth than ever.


"Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always." 1 Chronicles 16:11

Should I stay or should I go?

I'm just not sure what I want to do. I'm signed up to go to our youth camp, Centrifuge in Glorieta, as a sponsor. There are plenty of sponsors going and I'm waffling on what I should do.

All the camps my kids have gone to, I've been a sponsor at. I just feel safer going. This is the farthest they've ever gone. Of course they are 15 and 17.

It always is good time and a very spiritual time. I love being a part of the whole thing, I love the closeness that is developed.

I don't love traveling that distance on a bus. I'm worried about altitude sickness. I don't do well on mountain curves.

Should I stay or should I go? I'll pray about it.

Brenham and Washington-on-the-Brazos

We took a quick vacation to Brenham last Wednesday thru Friday. Mom, Dad, Cindy, Rachel, the boys and I went to a bed and breakfast right outside of Brenham.

We took Dad's truck and my nice new Sonata. On the way up there Cindy, Jeremy and I were in my car and we rocked out (relatively speaking) on the way there. We listened to old and new Christian songs, it was all good until I started playing some of the older songs that I loved and then Jeremy wasn't quite as sure. I have fond memories of "Rise Again", "We are the Reason" and "When God Ran." They were especially useful during the drive through Houston. Driving through Houston is never good. We listened to Taylor Swift and sang along to "I Will Survive." It was actually quite fun.

We stopped at the Bluebell Creamery in Brenham and took the tour before we went to the bed and breakfast. We got some cute pictures. Then we went to our B&B, after passing it once and returning to the Creamery to pick up Dad's phone that he'd lost (as Rus says, does hehave to lose something every vacation?). It was a cute cottage with a pond and sweet garden. After unpacking, the kids went out to see the cows and donkey (conkey, cause he thinks he's a cow). We were sitting on the benches talking when we happened to look up and see all the cows running. Had to stop Rus from "Running with cattle" or should I say "running at cattle."
Poor Rach wasn't feeling well but by that evening was better.

The next day we went to Washington-on-the-Brazos to see Independence Hall where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed. We also went to the Living History homestead of Anton Jones, Texas' 4th and final president and to a Texas museum. We worked hard to avoid a daycare group of 150 kids the entire day and managed until the very end at the gift shop. Oh well, it probably saved some money. It was so hot and we were so tired. We visitied the mini horses but were grateful it was closing. We went to eat at what was supposed to be the best burgers around. A little hole in the wall gas station with a barely working air conditioner and a 30 minute food wait (we were the only people there). Poor Mom is not happy when she's starving, I'll leave it at that. The burgers were good, though. The rest of the day we just chilled

The kids explored the pond which had a concrete slab with tables and chairs and a paddle boat. They hung around there and had a great time. Then we all went down there and enjoyed watching them boat around.

Mom and Dad went to Austin and the rest of us went in my car. They were a bit cramped, but it wasn't horrible, especially for Cindy and me. We had multiple sing alongs and prayed our way through Houston.

Family's great!

Did you know not all spider's have a web?

Well, I was looking for a new car the other day and I ran across a Spider. Not the normal kind of spider but by the end of my short dealings with him he gave me the creeps like his eight legged namesake.

I called a Chevrolet car lot to ask about an ad for a car (go figure) and this guy answered and assured me that even though the ad still up on their website had expired, he could make me a great deal. And then he told me his name was "Spider" (I know, I know, first clue?strike). We set up an appointment for a bit after 1. I headed that way and gave him a call to let him know I was on my way. After 2 calls to his cell phone he finally answered and told me that he was with someone else on a test drive but he'd be there shortly and they were expecting me. Self said, "Really now, why'd I make an appointment then?" (Second clue/strike)

Sure enough I got there and he was nowhere to be found. I looked around at cars for about 2o minutes and still he was nowhere to be found. I headed inside and told the receptionist that my time was more valuable than this and I was headed across the street and if I didn't find something I'd be back. Then I walked away.

You should have seen the 2 legged Spider, with the bleached blonde mullet, come running out of the dealership. Being the kind person that I am I stopped instead of running over him. Seriously now, what kind of person runs in front of a moving vehicle? Okay so that is a slight exaggeration he ran to the side of the car and nearly knocked my window out. Okay, okay, another slight exaggeration but he did run to the window while the car was moving and knock on the window.

Conversation went something like this:

Spider (S): "I'm almost through here."
Me: (M): "That's nice. I am through here. I'm going to the car dealers across the street."
S: "Do you know where they are?"
M: "Uh, yeah, I can see the large number of cars are across the street." (Duh)
S: "Great! I should be finished when you get back."
M: "Cool! I'm finished now."
S: "Oh, well, will you be back?"
M: Just wanting the creep to leave me alone, "If I don't find something maybe."
S: "I'll make you a great deal."

Strike 3 and he's OUT!

Finally I drove off. He called my cell twice. My new car dealer bud and I got a great laugh at that as I was signing papers for my Hyandai Sonata!

Squished that spider, eh?

My Version of 20 Wishes

So I don't know whether or not wishes is the right word. I finished reading Debbie Macaumber's book "Twenty Wishes" a couple of weeks ago. I really liked it. In the book a group of women of varying ages made a list of 20 wishes, things they wanted to do. There was no time line it was just putting some dreams or ideas down on paper.

I decided that I would do the same thing for summer. They will be in no particular order and I will edit to add as I come up with more.

1. I want to go to Applebees with LouAnn and only order desserts, maybe an appetizer but probably just desserts. There is a list of four that we need to try.
2. I'd like to make the boys and even K, Rachel and probably Cindy, maybe even Mom and Dad if they want, go to San Jacinto Monument.
3. I'd like to get my scrapbook room organized and my pictures and kits ready to go.
4. Complete 20+ scrapbooking pages
5. Make atleast 7 pieces of jewelry (wanted to say 10 but changed my mind)
6. To be continued

Cruisin' Pics

So, finally, I have figured out this blogger image thing and have uploaded some cruise pictures.


The boat has just taken off from New Orleans and this is a picture of Jeremy with his phone. I'm sure he's texting K because he's already worried about leaving. This is a brand new phone that doesn't look the same when we get home as it did when we left, but that's a whole nuther story.

Shortly after getting on the boat and exploring we realized that we needed a meeting place. Everyone was going to want to go do different things but if we had a set spot then we'd be able to touch base. (This was my idea although I don't know if they'll admit it. I was the cruise guru, I had a green journal with all kinds of cruise information, most we didn't us. They made fun of me. Shame on them.) Who would have known how much we would use this spot. It was in the gorgeous atrium, which is in the center of the boat, right by a coffee/drink bar. Mark, the boys and I had all purchased a soda pass for unlimited soda, before we got ton the boat. Who knew how handy that would come in. Well worth the $40 or so bucks per. Dad eventually got one, too. It was so easy to get drinks. The nice people at the coffee/drink bar got to know us by name. I must say we were a little possessive of our spot, but we used it the most.

This picture is out of place it should be after Costa Maya, but I couldn't figure out how to change it, so, anywho. . . When the boat started to dock in Santo Tomas, Mark went to one side of the boat and this is what he first saw.

I went to the other side of the boat and this is what I saw. It was breathtaking. Who got the better view, eh?

Now back to Costa Maya. It is a little spot made for the Cruise lines. Lots of little junk. Doesn't Dad look cute in his sombrero.

Just call us the Monkey Family. As we walked into Costa Maya, there was a native dressed as a pirate with a monkey. For $5 he took pictures of you with the monkey. Jeremy, who never wants to take pictures, wanted these taken. It was well worth it.

This is a picture of my boys in Costa Maya.

We took a trolley tour in Santo Tomas. Other than squished knees, the tour was excellent. This is a picture of our wonderful tour guide unlike the tour guide we had in Belize, I won't even go there. . . .

Here is a picture of the above the ground cemetery. I took a bunch of pictures.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words and let me assure you that this one is speaking volumes. The look on Cindy's face totally sums up our entire experience. It was a tour from Hades. But mom wanted to see some ruins and see them we did. Of course in our infinite wisdom we decided we should take the city tour, too. It was on a chartered bus. Of course the chartered bus had a non working air conditioner and a not working well. People were told not to go number 2 in the bathroom, but they didn't listen and we were in the back. It wasn't good. Then it took forever to go through the city and it was very hot. Then we had to go 44 curves in like 22 miles. When we finally got there after this ride from Hades, we were given a bottle of lukewarm water. The entire time we were there all I could think about was the fact that we had to do those same 44 curves again.

These were the tall steps that I would have liked to throw someone off of.

This is how Jeremy and Rusty toured the Ruins. When asked what they were doing Jeremy said, "They came, they built, they died. What more do I really need to know?" Point taken.

Mom "climbed" the ruins. It seemed necessary to get a picture of her on the ruins because it was her idea after all.

Mark climbed the ruins, too.

His were just a little bit taller, though.


On the trip back, Rachel got sick. There were no towels on the bus. Mom thought she could wash it away with a bottle of water. Really Mom, we're on an enclosed bus, where do you think it's going to go. I'll tell you, it's gonna slosh right back where it started. Luckily, for them, Rusty and Nate sat closer to the front. Unluckily, for the rest of us, we didn't. At the ruins there were allspice trees, many people picked up some of the leaves. They came in very handy. You saw a lot of allspice leaves being sniffed on the way back. We, unfortunately, didn't pick any up. People were tearing their's in half and sharing. Noone shared with us.... What's that about? Go figure.

Not only did we have a memorable (noone said all memories have to be good, and in our family on vacations, we always have to have atleast one story like this) trip back, we still had to tender back to the ship. We get on a very large boat, relieved it's over. Somehow we managed to get the ONLY seats on the boat that got wet. By this time all we could do is laugh. I laughed so hard I was crying, no need to worry about mascara running, I was getting wet anyway. Dad just decided if you can't beat 'em, join 'em. Make the best of a bad situation.

Here's a picture of our boat when we docked in Cozumel. I have to say this was my favorite stop. All I did was shop. I got separated from everyone, but I was on a mission. Just let me shop people, that's all I wanted. Jeremy and Nathan took a carriage tour. The boys hadn't made it to breakfast so they were hungry, we found a Burger King and I paid about $25 for them to eat. Color me unhappy. What did you expect it was a Burger King in Mexico. Jeremy got a henna tatoo with K's name on it and some other trinkets. Nate got some boots and I just got

Rusty thought he needed to get his hair braided. Cindy stayed with him while I ran to the boat, not even joking, with Rachel to get the underwater cameras and her bathing suit on. Dad, Rusty and Rachel were going snorkeling. Thankfully, Dad took some pictures while they were on the boat because Rusty decided, almost immediately, that he didn't like his $27 braids and took them out. Atleast I got pictures. By the time I got everyone where they needed to be, I was exhausted, but not too exhausted to shop.

Here's Mom and Dad on the boat. Aren't they sweet?

Sunset at sea. Isn't it gorgeous?


Time for some random boat pictures.

On the last day, I made the kids go all around the boat and let me take pictures. We basically hadn't seen the boys for the entire week because when we were on the ship, they were with their new friends. They had to promise to let me do this in exchange for not hanging with us. This is the steps in the gorgeous atrium.

This is Jeremy on the steps acting like Jeremy anywhere else.

This is Jeremy pretending to bite the dragon's ear (he got that from his dad, not dragon's ears but dog's ears) with Rusty looking on and laughing and Rachel right before she fell off of the dragon (apparently he didn't like his ears being bit.)

This is Mark and his mom, Linda, when we went to dinner in one of the main dining rooms. Enough said.

Here's Rachel in our meeting spot eating the popcorn her wonderful Aunt Missy snagged for her.

Here's the whole gang, minus me cause I'm taking the picture and Dad, Linda and Nate cause they're getting the trucks, glad to be back.

And yep, all this luggage is ours.

Bonnini Strikes Again

I don't know what is going on with Miss Bonnie the Breakout Puppy. A couple of weeks ago she figured out how to move the doggy gate enough to let herself and Ringo out. She noses it away from the wall and they slip out leaving poor Boonie behind.

The first time I noticed her doing it was a Saturday morning. I could hear little feet pitter pattering on the floor outside of my door and thought the boys were up. I bellowed for them to let the puppies out and they just ignored me. That didn't make me happy because it was a little after 7 and the last thing I wanted to do was get up. Well, pups kept scratching on my door and I tried invain to ignore them. Even tried yelling for the boys again.

Finally, against my better judgement and with a real mad on, I got up to let them out and to have a gripefest at the boy-os. To my utter shock and amazement they were both still asleep. Well, that let them out, and I knew I didn't do it so it must be hubby's fault, right, I mean I have to blame it on someone. Luckily, before I put my foot in my mouth (a rare occasion I assure you), I headed into the kitchen 'cause I realized Boonie wasn't around. He was still laying on the blanket looking at me in exasperation. Then I noticed the gate pushed open a bit. It clicked in my brain, seeing as how I am sharper than a tack, Bonnie Marie had become an escape artist after I went to bed the night before.

I have to admit, I found it a bit funny and actually was a teeny tiny bit in awe of her amazing abilities. That changed that night when I put them up. I talked to her about the importance of staying in the right area and she looked at me with such smart doggie eyes I knew she understood. Yeah, right, she's a dog, albeit a smart one, but a dog none the less. I get myself comfy and go to bed (now mind you this was the weekend after the wreck and I was quite achey).

Not five minutes after I've gone to bed did I hear the telltale sound of little doggy feet and I swear I could hear doggy giggles. Really, I'm not kidding. Seriously. Anywho, I got my achey body up and griped at the pups and put them back up. With Boonie looking on in exasperation, yet again, he was trying to sleep after all, I put pups back up, put a box full of books in front of the gate to dissuade her exiting again and in my best stern teacher voice said, "Bonnie Marie, you better stop that nonsense and go to sleep."

I just knew that would take care of it, I've stopped many a kid in their tracks with that same voice, surely it would work on a dog, right? As I headed to my room, I chanced a look back and there she was smirking at me, who knew a dog could smirk, but I'm here to tell you, that is what she was doing. Anyway, I climb my achey bones back into bed and get comfy and start reading my book. Five minutes pass and I hear nothing. "Yes!" I think to myself, "I did it!"

Guess you know where this is going, eh? Next thing I know right after I turn out my light and close my eyes I hear little doggy feet. I swear to you, they waited for the light to go out and thought they'd play. Once again, with my ire on the rise, I climb out of my comfy bed with my achey body and go to the door where they are sitting there waiting for me. Now they aren't just smirking they are giggling like they were so cute! I was NOT HAPPY! My books nor my teacher voice worked to contain these little hellions.

Took them to the room for the second time and added 2 two liter bottles to the mix. Now I had her! In my toughest teacher voice, reserved only for the most dire cases, I gave her the whatfor. Ringo appeared to be shaking in his fur but Bonnini just looked at me with this "Bring it on" look. I grabbed a third 2 liter bottle and added it to the mix. Dusting off my hands I headed to my comfy zone only this time I chose not to look back. You know those looks your kids give you that just send you into orbit? I figured that was what she was doing and it would be better for us both if I took the high road and just kept going.

Finally, my weary body is in bed and my eyes are shut and I am almost asleep, you know that special place you go to right before you start with the REMs? Yeah, that's where I was. Clickclack. Clickclack. Clickclack. No telling how long this went on because I had my earplugs in but finally the noise made it into my special place. I'd like to say I popped out of bed but I told you I was achey so I actually creaked out of bad just as mad as I could be. I opened that door and there she was sitting right outside my door staring at me and belly laughing, I tell you, she was basically rolling on the floor. Mind you, Ringo was smart enough to stay in this time. That was the LAST STRAW! I scooped her up, took her through the kitchen, and tossed her (said for effect, I just simply placed her with a tiny bit of frustration) into the laundry room and shut the door. "Take that you mongrel! Who's laughing now?" And I stomped (well, a quiet stomp cause it was like 2 a.m. and the rest of the house was sleeping) back to my room and went to sleep.

Third time's a charm. (I am the champion, my friend, and I'll keep on trying til the end [channeling Queen])

For the last two weeks she left the gate alone. She was waiting for me to let down my guard. I'd reached the point where I just put the box of books and forgot about the 2 liters. Last night she escaped twice but the second time I spanked her heinie and reminded her of the Laundry room. She stayed put, atleast until the morning when she needed to go potty. Atleast she made it through the night!

"He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him." Prov. 13:24

American Idol Finale and others

So, I wonder who will win?

Hoping it's Kris although I think it may be just as good for the number 2 and even many of the others because I don't think they have to share their winnings with American Idol.

As I look at the crowd, I'm amazed at all the celebrities.

How bout Kara smashing "Bikini Girl" in the song. Go Kara.

I like the Idol finale.

Who am I kidding, I like almost all reality show and there are alot of finales this week and last and I'll share my two cents cause I can:

America's Next Top Model: Not my pick, I wanted Alison.

Dancing with the Stars: Any of the three would have made me happy. I really thought it would be Gilles and he was my top choice only because of Cheryl, love Cheryl. Shawn won and I was happy with that.

Survivor: JT rocks and was the perfect choice, he totally sealed the deal when he took Shawn with him and not Allison.

Amazing Race: Would have preferred the mom and deaf son, can't remember the name but the lawyers were okay.

American Idol: Ten more minutes, but I'm giving Rus the computer so . . . .


Edited to add: OMG Kris won!!!!! Didn't they all look shocked, including him. Way to go Kris.
I also forgot to mention Hell's Kitchen. I totally didn't want Danny to win, I think he's a bit of a wimp but could be cause I was Team Paula.

I Have Will Power! Who Knew?

Well, Sonic isn't my favorite food place, but I just can't pass up their Happy Hour! Today when I went I decided to also get a caramel shake. I've thought about it for awhile but I have these weird texture issues and Sonic's shakes have always been a bit grainy. Weird, I know, but that's me.

Today when I ordered that milkshake it was smooth and nummy. The nummiest milkshake I've had in probably forever. I finished it and knew I was driving by another Sonic so I really wanted to stop and get a large one. I know, I know, bad Missy! But I overcame it and passed on by.

Now that's will power. Who knew?

Besides, there's always tomorrow! :)

Did you know that when deployed air bags stink?

Well, neither did I until last Wednesday. Somebody decided that they wanted to turn left from the middle lane. I was in the left lane and it wasn't a turn only lane. I wanted to go straight. It was at a green light that was headed to the highway. They turned, I continued straight right into them.

When air bags deploy they emit white powder. I don't know if it was the white powder of what, but it burned my wrist, my chin and my forehead. I think it got my back, too. Not bad burns, but little blisters popped up. The air bags also smoke and stink. I thought something was on fire.

My right ankle hurts a bit from slamming on my brakes, my wrists and fingers hurt from holding on to the wheel so tight. The seat belt bruised my chest and my ribs. The pain in the ribs is the worst, still can't bend without pain, but it'll be okay, I'm not seriously injured.

I was in a daze. There were a lot of cops. Don't know if driver was hurt. It was a new Explorer, if so wasn't major. Wasn't my fault. Think they got a ticket. Don't know if they have insurance. Know accidents happen but not happy that my car will probably be totaled. It had a new tire, fresh oil and a full tank of gas. Funny what you think about at a time like that. Really want my gas.

Bottom line, I'm alive. My angel was protecting me. My God was with me as he always is.

Blessings,
Missy
"But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." Psalm 5:11

Midnight,? Really Now.

Well, Wolverine is coming out at 12:01 on Thursday and the boys want to see it. Yes, it is a school day the next day. So will I be a bad mom or a good mom. Although it depends on who you ask, what one considers good, others consider bad.

Edited to add: Nope, I didn't let them go. Still curious does that make me a bad mom or a good mom. Whatever, I'm the mom.

Maybe this time?

He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Okay so I'm a day late but the message is the same, "He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed!"

Isn't it amazing that our God allowed his perfect son to die for us? Can you even imagine what our life would be like if He hadn't allowed it? I just can't fathom.

We did the resurredtion eggs in Sunday School and the forgotten cookies. I'd made each of the girls a beaded cross pendant, I really enjoyed making them.

J's girlfriend spent the day with the family. They had a great day and we had a great day giving them a hard time. We'd take turns going and sitting with them in the living room. It was simply to annoy them and it worked.

Example:
I went in and sat down.

J: "What're you doing, Mom?"

Me: "Just came to talk."

J: "Is that necessary Mom?"

Me: "Yeah, I think it is."

Small talk, small talk, small talk and some more small talk.

J: "Awkward silence Mom."

Me: "Really? I hadn't noticed."

J: "Mom, can ya'll disperse now?"

Me: "I guess."

I head back to the kitchen and say to Cindy, "Your turn."

And the Judge Said . . .

Guess how I spent my morning? I spent it in the court with my J. Remember the wreck, now we had to go take care of the ticket. It wasn't too painful but still. . . I was late to my inservice. The judge likes to see the teens so that he can really "give them a talking to." Nothing wrong with that.

Now I'm sitting here in my workshop hoping I learn more about my blogging experience.

Silly Man

So I'm sitting here almost asleep watching, sort of, a tv show. (My purse and cell phone are in the other room with my hubby.)

Hubby: "Your phone's ringing!"

Me: "I'll call them back later."

Hubby: "It might be important."

Me: "It's probably a wrong number."

Hubby: "But what if it's important?"

Me: heavy sigh as I get up to answer my phone. By the time I get there it is no longer ringing. ?Suddenly it starts ringing again. I check the name and what do I see? Wait for it. . . .


"Hubby"

Me: Laughing. "What are you doing? I thought you said it could be important. I got up from my comfy position and you're calling me from the next room?."

Hubby: "But it is important. We want a cake." He says with a smile."

So what do i do? Head to the kitchen and make brownies (I didn't have a cake mix.)

I am a Soldier in the Army of God

At D-Now this weekend a group of girls got up on stage wearing pink t-shirts with "Active Duty" written across the front. One of the girls read the following letter she'd found on the internet. The author is anonymous but the message is powerful. I'm posting it so I don't forget it. I'm hoping for a way to work this in to our youth group. Or should I say praying.

Here it is:
I am a soldier in the army of God.
The Lord Jesus Christ is my commanding officer.
The Holy Bible is my Code of Conduct.
Faith, prayer, and the Word are my weapons of warfare.
I have been taught by the Holy Spirit, trained by experience, tried by adversity and tested by fire.

I am a volunteer in this army and I am enlisted for eternity.
I will either retire in this army at the rapture or die in this army; but I will not get out, sell out, be talked out, or pushed out.

I am faithful, reliable, capable and dependable.
If my God needs me, I am there.
If He needs me in the Sunday school, to teach the children, work with the youth, help adults or just sit and learn, He can use me because I am there.
I am a soldier.

I am not a baby.
I do not need to be pampered, petted, primed up, pumped up, picked up or pepped up.
I am a soldier.

No one has to call me, remind me, write me, visit me, entice me, or lure me.
I am a soldier.
I am not a wimp.
I am in place, saluting my King, obeying His orders, praising His name, and building His kingdom!

No one has to send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy or give me handouts.
I do not need to be cuddled, cradled, cared for, or catered to.
I am committed.

I cannot have my feelings hurt bad enough to turn me around.
I cannot be discouraged enough to turn me aside.
I cannot lose enough to cause me to quit.
When Jesus called me into this army, I had nothing.
If I end up with nothing, I will still come out ahead.
I will win.
My God has and will continue to supply all of my needs.

I am more than a conqueror.
I will always triumph.
I can do all things through Christ.
The devil cannot defeat me.
People cannot disillusion me.
Weather cannot weary me.
Sickness cannot stop me.
Battles cannot beat me.
Money cannot buy me.
Governments cannot silence me and hell cannot handle me.
I am a soldier.

Even death cannot destroy me.
For when my Commander calls me from this battlefield, He will promote me to Captain and then allow me to rule with Him.
I am a soldier in the army, and I’m marching, claiming victory.

I will not give up.
I will not run around.
I am a soldier, marching heaven bound.

Blessings,
Missy
“Suffer hardship with me as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier.” 2 Timothy 2:3-4

D-Now

This weekend was Discipleship Now for the Lumberton churches and NEBC in Beaumont. It was a wonderful concept.

Normally D-Now involves a single church. Doing a large number of churches allowed it to be further reaching. We still had host homes with our church but did worship and missions with all churches!!!

I stayed with the High School Girls and we had a great time.

Once again it was a growing experience for our youth. We were in Sunday School, having breakfast, this morning and David looked over and noticed that our entire youth group was over together at the couches and new ones would join. There was no separation of many little clique type groups, like usual, just one big group all talking together.

Blessed to be a part and to have these experiences.

1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8And being found in appearance as a man,he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! 9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Phil. 2:1-11

The First Girlfriend

How totally sweet! Jeremy has a girlfriend and it's his first. I'm totally happy with it, cause it's all about me, right?

What I mean is he's a steady kid. Takes it slow, takes it easy, makes it last.?

The nice thing is keeping the lines of communication open. Right now he's talking to me and asking my input.

They know each other from church and are taking things at a slow pace. Keeping God at the center.

They've gone out on two dates. To see "Taken" before we left on the cruise. It was the Friday before we left and I offered to go with them because I had really wanted to see the movie. He shot me down! What's that about?

Then Cindy came over and helped roll change and we texted him to try and get him to save us seats!

"Mom it's our first date!"

"So is that a no?"

No reply. So I guess that was a no! Like I'd really go on his date!

Anywho, The next date was the Friday after we got back. The Wednesday before he'd given her the souveneirs he'd picked out for her, a chain neclace with dangling hearts from the ship, a handmade beaded purse from Guatemala, a handmade name bracelet from Cozumel and he showed her the henna heart tatoo with her name. Their second date was putt putt golf.

Tonight they held hands and he put his arm around her. He was over the moon happy.

The next date is the Fair which means two things: His grades need to be up and he needs to earn quite a bit of money.

Sweetness.

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

Cruisin' On a Sunday Afternoon

Oh my goodness!!!! We're at the Drury Inn in New Orleans. We are checking out and headed for our cruise ship!!!! We are going on a seven day cruise to the Western Carribean, did I spell that right? Oh well, no time to check.

Will have lots to write about when I get there. Praying for an easy embarking experience and a great time.

Remind me to tell you about Jeremy's date! Yes, I said it, "Date". A real live date.

Blessings and Bon Voyage!

Let's Shed a Little Light on the Situation

Okay, did I feel silly!

The boys and I all went to church together on Sunday in the Mustang. On the way home, at night, in the dark, I had a car that was riding close on my tail. I didn't like it.

After a bit, he pulled over to my side and just kind of hung close. The boys are like, "Hey Mom, (that's what they call me, you know) what's that guy doing?"

I said, "I guess he wants to race or something, I don't do that." I just ignored him and thought to myself, "I don't like driving this car if people are going to look at me like that. It makes me feel funny."

You see, he wasn't the first one or last to be cutting looks my way.

I just drove along and as the roads got darker, I noticed there wasn't a lot of light in front of me. The lights in my car come on automatically and the way I know they are on is because my dash lights are on. No dashlights, no headlights. Dashlights on, headlights on.

Makes perfect sense. The Mustang's dash lights were shining bright. (Bet you know where this is going don't you?) Headlights, not so much.

Apparently, dashlights on in 'Stang do not mean headlights on.

Color me embarassed.

Turns out no one wanted to race me. They were just trying to get me to turn on my lights! Go figure!

Where's my sign?

And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. Genesis 1:3

His First Oopsie and My Hubs Rocks!

Poor J had a wreck today. Both boys were in the truck and both were fine, truck not so much. Rus called Nate, I think J was in shock. Smart choice to call Dad and not Mom. Mom was so panicked. They texted me to let me know.

I called back really quickly. After checking on the boys. Finding out that the other person was fine and J wasn't being stupid, I kept talking about thngs that really weren't important. Nate finally told me to settle down and not get hysterical. I informed him I was not hysterical ( I didn't feel like I was, guess I was a bit in shock, too. The fear and relief). He told me I was headed that way(his tone was way calmer than mine.)

After getting off the phone, I realized he was right, I was headed to hysterical. How well he knows me.

Nate was amazing. He handled the whole thing so well. I know on the way there he was petrified. When something's wrong with your kids, the whole world stops for a moment. J said he was so cool when he got to the accident. He was a bit worried. He took care of the boys and all the accident stuff. Got a rental car, a blue mustang, and picked up J's parking pass. I made sure to let him know what a wonderful man he was and what a great dad and that I loved him dearly and am blessed to have him.

Spent forever working out cruise details. Have a cruise notebook now so I feel so much better!

"In Jesus Name"

Well, it's a new week. Sometimes I don't take the time to blog because I want to do something specific with my blog. You know a meme or activity or something. Sometimes I don't blog because I'm tired. Then I get behind.

Oh, well . . .

This Sunday morning the lesson was on "Praying in Jesus Name."

I never really thought about the fact that I always end my prayers with, "In Jesus' name."

We talked ahout the reasons for going before God and using His son's name.

One of the reasons was to establish resonance. To align our beliefs. To become unified.

Also, when we pray in Jesus' name He appreciates that we know His son. I likened this for the girls to my own sons. When I was studying the material I had an epiphany. If I didn't know you and you needed something from me I don't know whether I'd give you much time or be likely to even listen. On the other hand, if I didn't know you but you came to me and told me you were a friend of J or Rus, I'd stop what I was doing and listen.

I explained to the girls that a child is a part of their parent's heart. If you are a friend of my child, I look at you much differently than if you were a random stranger. It is a connection and a powerful one. It's the same way when we go to God using His son's name.

It just seems natural to use the phrase "in Jesus name".

As I was studying I started reading more about it. There have actually been people fired for saying prayer and using the phrase, "In Jesus name."

I guess we only have religous freedom when it is convenient to other people. When other people aren't offended.

Guess again, people, guess again. My Jesus died for my sins. My Jesus told me in John 14 to pray in His name. My Jesus said do it. That's all there is to it. Just do it!

That being said:

Daddy God I come to you to pray for our nation. It was founded on religous freedom yet that is being taken away from us. Father God just be with us as a nation. Be with each Christian and give them the power to stand up for their beliefs. Be with me and help me stand for my beliefs.

Daddy God, be with my girls at West Brook who are having a hard time in their English class. The teacher has decided that "Evolution" would be a great hot topic for discussion. They have asked for prayers because this teacher is making it very hard for them, he is questioning them about their religion and making them uncomfortable.

As I told them today, comfort isn't always a necessity. We have to step out of our comfort zone and stand tall and stand firm. I know that satan is going after them.

We just returned from an amazing time in Your presence, Father, and he's not happy. Lay your all powerful hand on my precious angels and give them strength and peace. Wrap them in you powerful love and bind satan from their presence.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Take that satan, take that.

If someone somewhere has run across my blog and is offended, I don't apologize. This is my little piece of the web and God is present here. All I have to say is: "Don't let the door hit ya, where the good Lord split ya!

Blessings

What a Weekend!

Well, last weekend was Winter Retreat and it was amazing. Winter Retreat is always awesome, but there was just something different this time around. At Afterglow last night, Janie Davis said it best. When asked what was so great about Winter Retreat she said, "It's Winter Retreat. What else can I say."

I have to admit that I wasn't sure about it this year. I was a little concerned about our speaker, but I was way off base. His name is R.V. Brown. When asked what it stood for he replied, "Risen to Victory." That should've been our first clue that we were in for an amazing ride!

Our Worship group was "The Ticket Ministry" and they did more than just lead the worship. They were small group leaders and played with our youth. They loved our kids and that made all the difference. It made them so much more than just a group that led worship.

One major difference this year is that there was no rain. In the six years I've been going, it's always rained and has usually been cold. Even before that noone can remember a dry Winter Retreat. Our youth have become so used to this that they were, at first, disappointed that they weren't going to be able to play mud football. With the beautiful weather, they soon got over that disappointment.

Saturday night is always such a big night. Starting with the music in the service, you could tell something was going on. On his very first night, RV told us that he had prayed over each chair and had circled the building seven times to bind Satan from the Tabernacle. I can truly say that on Saturday night the Holy Spirit could be felt surrounding us. The feeling was amazing, I had goose bumps.

After our worship we had the Talent/unTalent Hour. Jeremy, Lila and Josh have formed a band called "RisingSon." They played for the first time in front of a crowd. I was so proud of Jeremy.

After the Talent/UnTalent Hour, we have share time. It is always a touching time, but this time was so much more. All or the sudden, I looked over and Rus was waiting to go up on stage. Once he got up, he shared what was on his heart and I was awed, amazed and so unbelievably proud. It was so much more, but I'll journal it because it's not mine to share. To have the guts to get up and share your heart like he did, was impressive. My boy got a standing ovation from his peers. There were others that shared but only his that touched us all in such away that we had to stand. To say that I cried would be an understatement, I cry at everything, so this got me good. All us mommas were wiping our eyes, most of the dads and quite a few of the youth. How could you not, it was just that powerful.

Sunday night we had Afterglow, a time to share about the weekend. Rus had mentioned to me that afternoon that he wasn't sure whether he wanted to speak or not. I asked him if David had approched him about it and he told me no but RV said you shouldn't be afraid to stand up for Christ and share your testimony. I gave David a heads up and called Mom and told her Rus might speak. She told me to let her know and she'd come if so. I wasn't able to call her.

David had all the youth and most of the sponsors sit in the choir loft. I say most because Neesie and I sat up front. Neesie had already asked me if Rusty was going to speak and if so we should go get tissue. I wasn't sure so we got it just in case. They tried to get us up there we begged off, we knew we'd be bawling cause that's what we do. I also wanted to take pictures. They ran out of room anyway so we made the right choice.

Needless to say, Rusty did get up to speak. Needless to say, I bawled. Unbelievably, he got another standing ovation, the only one again. I say this not to brag, but to try to get across just how moving the entire thing was.

After it was over, I was stopped so many times by people wanting to tell me how they were touched by his testimony and how proud they were. One of the college students even stopped me and told me he never cried unless he was mad and Rusty brought him to his knees and he almost broke down.

I was so glad that my mom made it. I asked her how and she told me that she was watching tv when at 6:24 (church was at 6:30) a still, small voice told her to get to church and she did. Boy was she glad. Dad'll be sorry.

None of us left this weekend without being moved by the Holy Spirit. It is my prayer that the mountaintop experience will last.

There's so much more. I'll share Jeremy's fire tomorrow and the verses.

Blessings,

Missy

The Novelty of Facebook

There are days I have my issues with technology but it really is a wonderful thing.



Take for example Facebook. I thought I'd check out Facebook and hopefully reconnect with some old friends. I have located some and am having fun playing with my present day friends.



Over 23 years ago I moved to Beaumont from Austin at the start of my senior year. My parents were going to let me stay with some of their friends but I couldn't do it. Literally, I was there one day and gone the next. I totally picked up my life and started over. I just took it all in stride and never really thought about it.



I had some great friends in Austin/Pflugerville and I just left them behind. Now that I have stopped to think about it, if they'd done that to me I would have been so hurt and probably a bit angry. Oh, I'd know it was something that had to be done, but not the way I did it. We had so many big plans for our senior year and so many dreams. I had every intention of staying or I would have said good-bye. I would have had a good-bye party and cried with my friends. But God had other plans for me and it's been great.



I did keep in touch with a handful of my friends but eventually lost touch with each and every one of them. It's not a lack of love, life just got in the way.

I literally hadn't talked to any of my friends from high school in over 15 years. So I thought I'd give Facebook a try. What a fun ride it is already.



A couple of days ago I got an email from a very special friend. A friend I hadn't said good-bye to. I actually got an email asking what was going on in my life. I thought about it for a day or so and this morning I sat down to answer. The words that came out were a bit of a shock and cleansing at the same time. I had never taken the time to stop and think about the entire situation.



As I was doing it I realized it was something I'd like to post on my blog, to help me remember. Maybe it will actually touch someone and help them understand that God has a plan and it is a perfect plan. Even my number one life verse talks about that and I never stopped and put two and two together.



Here goes:



Mom, Dad and Cindy moved to Beaumont my senior year. It was arranged for me to stay with Sue and Clovis Williams and graduate from Pflugerville. Everything was going great: I had a job I loved, a great church, great friends at a school I had been at forever and everything I thought I wanted.

The Fam had been in Beaumont for about 6 weeks by the time school started. I'd visited a few times, but held on to my Austin life. The Fam was visiting churches and had found one with an amazing youth group. It was so unlike Hyde Park it was unreal.

I loved Hyde Park and the amazing opportunities it presented me with as well as the great friendships. I would take absolutely nothing back and would change none of my experiences.

Hyde Park was so huge and here was a youth group that averaged about 35-40 people with the core group of about 20. I became quick friends with a girl named Tamara and met a really cool guy. It always amazes me how God just puts people where they need to be when they need to be there. I don't know why it should, He is God.

School had already started in Beaumont the last weekend I visited. Pflugerville was getting ready to start school on Monday. When I visited with the Northend Youth, I was amazed at how close they all were. I went home that Sunday ready to carry on with my life, or so I thought.

Sue and Clovis were wonderful but they weren't my parents. Even though Mom, Dad and I had our problems, especially Dad and me, there's something about family. I was sitting in my room at the Williams' and thinking about all the things I was missing in Beaumont. Great friends, a sweet guy, my family and a chance to start over.

No matter how much I loved being "independent" in Austin, I was torn. Even though I loved Pflugerville, my friends and my "station in life", it hadn't been the same for me since Becky had died. When she was killed in the car accident, it left a hole that just wasn't filling up. I'd already quit band, which I loved, because I just couldn't deal with all of the memories. I still had my other friends and loved them all dearly. But,since high school had started, Becky and I had been almost inseperable, minus one silly fight.

Everything at school and many things in Austin reminded me of her. Even as much as I loved Todd and Kevin, even as good of friends as they were, it was hard to be around them in the same places we'd hung with Becky. Losing Becky gave us a connection, but also was painful. On new turf, Beaumont, it wasn't as hard. They visited me many times and were ushers in my wedding. The first hurricane scare after I got married, they were ready to come and rescue us. My husband was amazingly understanding when they'd randomly drop by. A couple of times Kevin would pop in and say he was in the neighborhood. I'm still trying to work out how the Austin area and the Beaumont area were neighborhoods. Then they found great gals and got married and we lost touch. I totally digressed.

Anywho, I returned on Sunday afternoon and sat in my room. I can't remember if I made it to choir practice or not. I think I did, I believe I remember telling Christy and Julie I was thinking of moving. Especially Christy because she had traveled with me to Beaumont. By the time I made it back to the Williams', I'd made up my mind.

I called Mervyns and explained. Told Mark since we worked together. Called my parents who were over the moon happy. Called Kevin who said he'd take me to the airport and then drive my car (if you can call that Chevette a car) and stuff up the next weekend along with Todd, if he could get off work. Called Samantha to let her know, talk about totally shocking her.

I went to Pflugerville on Monday and checked out and collected my school records. They were shocked because I'd been granted special permission to finish school in Pflugerville while living in the other end of Austin. I said good-bye to the couple of people I saw with little explanation and I walked away from their confused faces.

Kevin was there to take me to the airport and I cried the entire way. He left me alone except to ask if I was sure this is what I wanted. He told me nothing had been done that couldn't be undone. I told him I needed my family. He reminded me that my parents and I fought ALOT. I told him yes, but they're still my parents. I don't know if he understood.

He reminded me that I had him and all of my friends. I told him I knew that and I loved them and valued them. I told him I wasn't sure going to Beaumont was what I wanted but it was what I had to do.

I only got to say goodbye to Todd on the phone. Most of my friends got nothing and I'm sorry for that.

I only knew that I was hurting inside. I tried so hard to overcome it, and for the most part I did. No matter how many amazing memories I had, and there were too many to count, they couldn't replace the truly painful ones.

Can I just take a moment to tell you how weird this is? I truly haven't thought about this in twenty years. I just buried the entire thing. Then I get on facebook and reconnect with people. It doesn't hurt now so I can think about it. God's plan is perfect.

I don't know if you can imagine what it is like to totally start over with a clean slate. To totally recreate yourself. I am having some major "aha" moments now. This is truly what it is like when you give yourself over to God, you become a clean slate. How cool is that?

I never really believed that I had a "good" testimony. I didn't have an amazing conversion experience, I wasn't a bad bad kid, I was simply a young girl brought up in a Christian home doing what I was supposed to do.

Don't get me wrong, I was saved on that day but because it was all so "normal", I didn't feel like my testimony was that important. Talk about a major God moment. Again, I digressed, but in a good way.

Anywho, I got to Beaumont and had a really amazing senior year. My new high school, West Brook, had a senior class of over 500. Talk about a culture shock. To this day, I can meet someone I graduated with and not even know we went to school together. In fact, my best friend, since college. and I graduated with each other and had no idea.

My youth group was very active and we were very close. I had no problem finding a place to fit in. I didn't have a lot of the same things I'd had in Pflugerville/Austin but I had some different things that were wonderful. God takes away and He gives.

I had no problem recreating Missy. My slate was totally clean. It wasn't that I was trying to be different or have a new identity, I simply was able to have a clean start. I was still me but I had the opportunity to start fresh. No one knew the "old" me.

One time, in college, Kevin came to visit. We had a group of people at my house from the BSU and we played Scruples. Have you ever played Scruples? In Scruples, someone asks you a question and you answer. You don't have to tell the truth, you just answer. The group then has to decide whether or not they believe you. I don't remember all of the particulars, I only remember that Kevin, angel that he is, outed me every chance he got. In some ways he was right, and some ways he was wrong. Although, I had changed in many ways, fundamentally I was the same.

Kevin and Todd kept visiting. Christy came a few times. I'd go to Austin to visit. I was Samantha's maid-of-honor. And then that season seemed to end, too. I completely lost touch. That makes me sad. But life goes on.

I know that was a lot but thanks for taking the time to read it. I can honestly say it holds many "aha" moments for me.



Blessings,



Missy

Blessed Revisited

Revisiting my word of the year, "Blessed".

My friends at church. I've been totally blessed with a group of friends at church. For the most part, these friends are the parents of my kid's friends. It is so nice to have people to laugh and play with.

I was thinking this before hand, but last night was our Super Bowl party and it was wonderful sitting there laughing with and enjoying my friends.

God has blessed me with a remarkable group of people and I just want to say thank you God for putting these special people in my life.

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17

Blessings

Cold Weather Public Service Announcement

Boy was it cold outside this morning. It was so cold there was "frost on the pumpkin." If you're not in the know that means there was ice on the windshield.

Well, I've discovered the perfect de-icing system: turn on defrost as high as it will go with the heat going and turn on windshield wipers as fast as they will go.

I was in a hurry today and I added another element: -------- water. It's not the first time I've used water.

Just a FYI: Before putting water on your windshield you should either turn off the wipers or atleast stand back. Just sayin'

Blessings

So goofiness is hereditary?

My mom used to worry about early onset of Alzeheimer's. I say used to because I think the antics of my sister and myself have finally convinced her she's not alone. She'd do silly things or forget things and think there was some "major" reason for it.

As I started relaying my multitude of stupid stories, she began to feel better. My sister adds hers and now mom is trying to figure out how she has such ditzes for daughters.

It's not that we're ditzes, we just want to make our mom feel better. I mean, that's selfless isn't it?

Really, you'd think that we'd keep our blonde moments to ourselves. Of course, neither of us is blonde although I once did highlights for awhile. Now I'm just greyish brown, totally time to color my hair. Ever since the bozo episode, I have hair coloring fear, but I'm working on it. I digress, although we should probably stay quiet, we (especially me, I'm all about bringing joy to other people's lives and if I can do something to make someone else feel a little better, I'm all over it.) Oops, digressed again . . .

Sis called the other day and said, " Okay, you're never going to guess what I did."

Well of course she was right, how in the world would I be able to guess. I shot some random guesses out there but I wasn't right, go figure.

"You know how you drove away from the drive thru bank with the cannister?"

"Yes, that was a good one."

"I did it, too!"

Laughing and spitting my drink everywhere I replied, "Did they call you,too?"

She said, "I figured they would, but they didn't. When I took it back the next day they laughed and said they'd called a bunch of people, but didn't know what happened."

"So ditziness is hereditary?" I questioned.

"Guess so."

See Mom, no worries. You're okay. Your daughters on the other hand I'm not so sure about.

Gotta love it and keep smiling!

Attitude of Gratitude

Grat-i-tude:–noun
the quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful

Gratitude and thankful are two words that I believe go with my word of the year "blessed."

I am a "glass half full' gal. I'm always looking for the positive in every situation, I guess that's one of the reasons I chose blessed to be my word. As annoying as it may be, I want to be positive. It isn't always easy, sometimes I have to push myself to find the positive. I just find my life a little easier if I do.

Some might call it "sticking your head in the sand." Others might say you're "making lemonade out of lemons." I say I'm surviving.

This Sunday at the Stampin' Up Open House I saw some scrapbooking friends I hadn't seen in awhile. One of my precious friends, Darla, has breast cancer. She's had one surgery and was only able to do 4 shots of chemo because of her liver transplant. They found a bit more and were going to take it out on Monday. She is very positive about the entire thing.

I had no intention of going to the open house, I missed my exit and decided to head that way. It never ceases to amaze me how God works. I'm grateful that I can add my prayers to those already going up for her. The power of prayer is an awesome thing.

So gratitude, thankful, blessed all seem to fit together like a puzzle.

"A thankful heart is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others."- Cicero

"Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus"

1 Thess. 5:18 (NLT)

Blessings,

Missy

Give me back my socks already

Okay, I have a real major issue here. It's been weighing on me for many years. I just feel that it is time to bring it to the forefront because I know I am not alone.



It's no wonder I hate doing laundry. You see, it scares me.



Why is it that I can put a certain number of matching socks in the washing machine and when I take them out of the dryer there is a different number and they no longer match?



Well, I've pondered this problem for many years and think I have finally come up with an answer.



I know that some of you probably agree with me that there is a sock monster but it has always confused me how he manages, now I think I'm on to his tricks.



Here's what I'm convinced is happening, are you ready for this? The "Sock Monster" takes them. The "Sock Monster" has the ability to travel from house to house with a simple poof (Think of the house elf Dobbin in Harry Potter). There also must be hidden "elf" doors in both the washing machine and dryer. He takes some socks from my house and delivers them to other houses. He does it just to mess with our minds. It's just not right I tell you, just not right.

So here's where the rubber meets the road. It's simple really.

I know you have my socks people, so give them back already!

"Hey, Dad . . . "

Being a dad, you don't necessarily know that nothing good comes from those words. The other shoe always drops.

As a mom, I just sit here and giggle. Hubs comes to me and says, "Guess what J asked me?"

"No telling dear, what did J ask you?

"He wants to know if he can borrow my truck on Saturday."

"What's wrong with his truck? Why does he need your's?"

"He wants to go to the movies."

"Again, what's wrong with his truck?"

"He said Lizzie might go."

"Still don't see the problem. Last time I checked there were two seats."

"And maybe Lizzie's friend."

"Hmmmmm..."

"And maybe Rus."

"And what did you say?"

"I told him I'd think about it."

"And have you thought about it."

"Yep."

"And what did you decide?"

"Nope."

In total agreement I say, "Good plan."

Simple Joy

What a day full of silly memories that's what yestrday was.



After church the boys and I went to mom and dad's and ate. I had no intention of staying forever and figured the boys could head home whenever they were ready.



Mom suggested we play SkipBo if we could get one of the kids off of the computer. Dad doesn't like SkipBo much so he just napped. Noone wanted to play so I was going to head home. Just as I was headed out the door, Rus decided he would play, so we did, mom won, he is not a good loser. No more SkipBo.



We used to play SkipBo with my Nanny, the cards were actually hers. She's been gone for 10 years It's been too hard to play the game without her, especially for my mom.



Mom said Cindy, my sister, would play if she was there. We called and she said she'd come in after a bit and play before she took Rachel home.



In the mean time, Dad wanted Jeremy to see if he could download the CSI Miami theme song onto his phone. He said, "You know ''oooh ah wee, oooh ah, ooh ah'" Jeremy chimes in, "I'm pretty sure it's 'Who are you?"



Jeremy's point totally made sense, mom and dad's - not so much. Dad was still totally sure he was right. After checking on YouTube we found out J was right but Dad still wasn't satisfied. He did set his Pa's phone to that ring.



Cindy came and we played "Thirteen" first. She won all four games and didn't let you forget it. Then we played SkipBo partners and it was Rusty and Mom against Cindy and I. Cindy went at first and somehow we pulled out my going out next. I feel totally certain it had nothing to do with the 9 I put down in the 5th discard spot (there are only supposed to be 4 discard spots but I so can't help it if they weren't paying attention! Cindy assured me she'd had a SkipBo any way but it was much more fun with the 5th discard!) Cindy also felt it was necessary to hedge her bets and remind us all that even if WE didn't win, she had gone out first so she was the Queen. And remind us, and remind us, and remind us)



Anywho, it was nothing major, but just a lot of little pieces of joy and memories.







"So I commend the enjoyment of life, because nothing is better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany him in his work all the days of the life God has given him under the sun." Ecc. 8:15 (NIV)

Life Verses

Every Christmas I give my mom a 365 Day Devotional Book. I take myself to LifeWay and read the backs of all ot them. The problem I have is that I can never remember which ones I've gotten her. To alleviate that problem, I check the publish date and choose one published that year. Pretty smart, eh? This year I got her one about Life Verses. It intrigued me because I'm really big on verses fitting situations.

When I was a teenager I had a couple of interesting ways of deciding what my devotional would be for the day.

I'd either say a quick prayer and ask God to give me a good verse to meditate on and then open up my Bible. Amazingly the verse always fit. Don't know why I was so amazed--I asked, He answered. Duh

The other way I chose a devotional was to look in a book of pocket promises from the Bible. I'd choose a subject that was laid on my heart and then pick a Bible verse. That would be my meditation for the day.

Anywho, this was the start of my fascination with verses. It was that fascination that aided in my choice for my mom and it seems to be a good one. I may have to go pick one up for myself.

My only problem with a Life Verse is that I have a hard time choosing just one. Therefore, I decree that I can have as many as I want.

I will choose a predominate one because it's my go to verse:

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

One of my goals this year is to memorize atleast a verse a week. I know there is atleast one blog with this challenge on my blog reader. It may be Beth Moore's, not sure, I'll have to check it out.

I don't know what it is about Target

I don't know what it is about Target, I love that store. Can't figure out why. I know reasons not to like it:

• It' s a French store and the French are just downright unsupportive of us here in the US.


• They refused to allow the Salvation Army to ring their bells at Christmas. Now on the one hand I thought it was a bit tacky to stop people from raising money on the other hand I was grateful because those bell ringers drive me crazy. They are everywhere and even when I give in one place, I feel guilty if I don't give in another place. My choice what I want to give to at Christmas. Ultimately, I liked it. This year they game a nice size lump sum to the Salvation Army so that was good.


• It's not the cheapest store around. Wal Mart certainly has cheaper stuff for the most part.

But I love them, that's all I know.