Still here

Yes folks, I'm still here! It's been really busy. I've been working on school stuff, taking bootcamp at church, homeschooling...the usual.
So the good news is that I made the Surgical Tech program! Yay! But that opens another problem, needing to find a nanny. So pray for us that we find one. I am almost done with this round of classes though, and then I get a little break.
I have been running 3 plus miles a couple days a week now! Whoo! I have made my goal of 5k distance, now I need to work on my time. It's exciting stuff.

There are a lot of frustrating things going on in my life right now. I am conflicted about some things I am involved in at church. I just don't know how to deal with it or if it's worth it hang around and never be used.I'd say more, but can't right now, I will let you know what I decide to do. This nanny/school stuff is really stressful. I am afraid that I am going to have to drop out because I can't find someone. All that hard work will be for nothing if that happens. I am praying about it and looking and emailing, but so far, nothing.
I AM leading worship for the kids this Sunday! Yay! It's going to be fun! Phil is hosting for us as well! Super fun to have him working with us!

Time vs. Distance

On Fridays I change up my run a little. I try to give up my time for distance. I had run a mile and a quarter all week and yesterday I did a mile and a half. It took 20 minutes and 10 seconds. I ran a mile and a quarter in 18 min and 54 seconds, longer than it took me the rest of the week, but since I increased my distance, so it's ok. Anyone else do that? Do you ever give up time to go further? So next week I will be working on improving my mile and a half time. I may have to work on this for more than one week, so next Friday I probably won't do my time vs. distance.
I also need to change my play list on my mp3 player. I actually think I do better without music, but want a good playlist so that when I do use it, I don't feel like just stopping when I'm tired. I love the music that's on it now, but I think I need something a little faster for now.
So, tell me a little about your workout routine. What are you working on, what routines are you doing? I am running every day, except the weekends, and doing p90x in the evenings.

I'm still here!

I'm still here guys! We were on vacation last week. We went to Florida and met up with our family. My sister and brother in law rented an amazing house and we put 20 people in it, 9 of them were kids! But it was great. We got to meet our adopted cousins and all the kids got to spend lots of time together. Phil and I took our kids to the beach A LOT. They loved it. Last year William wouldn't even put his feet in the sand, this year, with the help of his floatie bathing suit, he was crashing around in the waves with his daddy and big sisters. My kids all discovered their inner beach bum. They love the beach. We went shopping and found some really neat clothes. Phil took me out to the Hard Rock cafe and bought me a t shirt and glass. We also went surf shop hopping, cause I LOVE the surf shops! We took the kids to a surf shop by the house we stayed in and the lady working there gave them some beautiful sea shells, for free. They were blessed. Then we took them next door to the ice cream shop. Gwen got to chose her own flavor, and the little two had rainbow sherbert. It was super fun! We took the kids to Bass ProShop in Florida, like last year, and looked at the fish and the boats and bought yummy fudge! We went bowling with the family, just like last year! Phil and Annabelle came in first and second. Annabelle did better than me! So wrong! But it was fun, the little kids loved it! The day we had to leave, Annabelle cried, she really didn't want to go. It was really sad.
So, on the way home we made a special stop, in the same place we stopped last year, the Bass ProShop in Louisianna. It's the second largest in the country. We love it! They have turtles and ducks and fish that you can walk over this bridge and watch them, in addition to the large fish tank. It is always fun, but this time they got to see the feeding of the animals. It was really enjoyable for them.
We got home late Saturday night, went to the store and went to bed! Sunday we got everyone up for church and spent the day at home. Monday...Monday we packed the kids back in the van and drove to Galveston. We wanted to show them that there are beaches in Texas. We had lunch at the beach along the sea wall and then went in the water for a while. Then we took them on a ferry ride. They LOVED it! They love boats so being on the ferry was special for them, but then they got to see the dolphins jumping out of the water. Now, I have ridden the ferry several times and NEVER saw the dolphins, so seeing them with my babies on their first trip was special for me. So we took them down to Boliver after that. The beach was empty and there were shells for miles! We found lots of whole, beautiful conch shells and brought them home. We rode the ferry back, and saw more dolphins. William slept the whole way home!

So, that is what we have been up to! What about YOU?

New news

So, last night was choir kickoff and it was lots of fun! I have been fighting a horrid sore throat for almost a week and I couldn't sing at all. So when we all went downstairs for the prayer and worship service, I just sat and listened to everyone else singing around me. It was amazing! Ohmygosh, I cried. I cried last Sunday in children's worship as well listening to all the kids singing. I can't even describe what it felt like to just listen to everyone worshiping together. Amazing! Then we went back upstairs and had desserts and the prayer team came a prayed over us. It was really nice. I am hoping for vocal team auditions again this year. Maybe this time I'll make it.

Today, I improved my time to run a mile. Yesterday was 15 minutes and 15 seconds and today it was 14 minutes and 15 seconds! Yes! Tomorrow I am going to try to run a mile and a half. I am going to try to keep the mile in the same time frame, and see how long it takes to do the other half mile! Tonight I am going to do another upper body p90x workout! I am looking forward to it!

Happy Dance!

So, as you know, I started running a few days ago. Well today I ran for 20 minutes and did a mile in 16! I am really pleased with that! I rewarded myself with a chocolate protein shake, mmmmm!
In other news, or not news, whatever, choir is kicking off this week! Yay! We are having a party and I am making cheesecake brownies! Yum! But I can't eat them. Hopefully someone will bring something that I can eat. And hopefully this sore throat goes away so I can actually sing. Weird thing is, after I workout, it feels better. Strange.
My son is sitting beside me, eating chocolate animal cookies. And I want them. I have to tell myself that I can't steal food from my children, AND that I can't have them. But talk about temptation. Nothing funnier than a two year old hanging around in his underpants eating choco cookies. I love that boy.
Tonight is going to be homework and one more workout, gotta do the upper body. I do have a question. Does anyone know of a good protein powder with no stimulants added? I am using soy protein now because it doesn't add stimulants, but would like something not soy based. I you know of any, let me know!

P.S- try running to Celtic music! Really a fun experience!

Link to new workout!

http://www.bodyrock.tv/2010/01/12/buns-and-fat-loss-week/

Here is the link to the new workout I tried. There are lots of workouts here that I want to try. Most of them have videos, except for this one, of course!

www.bodyrock.tv

thoughts

So some of the things I have been thinking about...
I have been working on controlling how much I am eating as well as WHAT I am eating. So I am eating when I am hungry, taking my time and stopping when I am full. I am hoping that will help me become more of my eating habits and hopefully help me lose weight. I am also thinking of cutting out the creamer in my coffee. I am thinking about it, not sure if i can commit to that. I am just not sure why I am not losing weight, I know that inches matter, but I am really getting discouraged that the weight isn't going down. I know I have been working out hard and probably putting on muscle, but ugh. But I am going to keep working out and trying to eat right. I am happy with the loss in inches, I really am.
So tomorrow I will be trying out the same workout from this afternoon tomorrow while the kids nap and another p90x upper body workout in the evening.
So here's to working out, almost meeting some goals and not meeting others!

measurements and a new workout

So, I tried out a new workout. Four moves, lots of reps. You are supposed to go through it four times, but I could only do two rounds. It was killer! I'll post the link later!
But now for the moment you have all been waiting for! My measurements!

waist- 30 inches
Hips- 35 inches
Chest- 32 inches
arm- 10 inches
thigh- 20.5 inches

I took these this morning. I think they look pretty good. Not where I want them to be, but getting closer! Tonight I am going to do my Kenpo X, it's one of my favorite workouts! What will YOU be doing tonight?

Small Goups and a change in plans

We met our small group for the first time last night. It was really awesome. I really enjoyed it. We had our connection point meeting at church and afterwards most of us herded up our kids and took over Chili's. We took up THREE tables, one of JUST kids! But it was lots of fun, except that the food took a really long time to get to us! But we got to spend a lot of time talking and getting to know each other, so it was good.
Sunday is usually my day off from working out, however, our trip to Chili's and the fact that I didn't workout for several days this week mean that I will be working it hard today! I have two workouts planned. One for afternoon while the kids sleep, one for evening after they are in bed. It's gonna be brutal, but awesome! My afternoon workout is a new one that I am going to try, if I like it, I'll share the link to where I found it, if not, ehhh you probably won't get a link! Tonight will be Kenpo X, and I already know that I love it! So, see you guys later tonight!

First run

So, I went for my first run on my treadmill. I ran 1 3/4 miles at about 4 mph. I felt pretty good about it. I am really excited to have the treadmill. Tomorrow I will be able to work it with Tony! Yes, Kenpo x here I come! I may also try a new workout tomorrow afternoon if I can. I found this really neat interval workout that I want to try. It's a butt blaster and looks pretty challenging! I will take my measurements tomorrow and post them for you.

This morning for breakfast I had a serving of bran flakes. I hate raisins, so I don't buy raisin bran. I actually like the bran flakes. Lunch was a salad of lettuce, spinach and cheese and some pico on the side. Really yummy! Tonight for dinner will be turkey tacos with pico. I can't wait!

what to say?

What to say today? As I am sure you have noticed, I am not a great writer. I like to write, I'm just not very creative. So what can I write about to interest you? I am leading worship for the kids tonight, one of the few times I will be doing it this year. With school and vocal team and choir, my Wednesday is kinda packed.
So, if you could read anything on here, what would it be? I am willing to take some ideas.
:)

Workout updates

Still working out almost everyday! Mostly p90x routines. I'm tired and sore. Have lost about another inch off all measurements except my arms. I am beginning to wonder if my scale is broken because I still haven't lost a pound! Ridiculous! I've been trying to eat fewer carbs and see if that helps. But I just can't figure out why my scale isn't moving! But I feel good and my jeans fit better and I feel like I look better too!
We are getting a treadmill! Yes! I am excited! Now I can run, I really like to run. I'm not very good, but I will get better!

Love Me Tender

Love Me Tender Blog Interview

Janice Hanna Thompson

booksbyjanice@aol.com


Note from Janice Hanna Thompson, author of LOVE ME TENDER:
Hi everyone! Thanks for stopping by to share in the excitement of LOVE ME TENDER, my latest inspirational romance. When I heard about the new “When I Fall in Love” line at Summerside, I flipped! Why? Because I love the ‘50s, and I love music! (The line is based on song titles from the 1930s to the 1970s.) I happen to be a playwright with a really fun musical comedy titled JOHNNY BE GOOD, a story that’s near and dear to my heart. I decided to put a twist on that stage play and turn it into a rockin’ romantic novel! With that in mind, I hope you enjoy this “Hollywood Heartthrob” interview with four of the main characters from the novel.

Hollywood Heartthrob, “Man About Town” Column

Welcome, readers! This is Sunset Sam, columnist for Hollywood Heartthrob magazine, here to interview several characters from LOVE ME TENDER, a new book by author Janice Hanna Thompson. I read the book in preparation for this interview and had a hip-hip hoppin’, be-be-boppin’ time reading about the characters down at Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe in Laguna Beach. I’ve been to Sweet Sal’s many times, of course. Everyone in Hollywood knows it’s all the rage. Where else can you get a big, thick cheeseburger, hot, salty fries and the thickest chocolate malts in the country? Now that I’ve enticed you with the food, let’s have a little chat with some of the key players in our story. We’ll start with Debbie Carmichael, daughter of the owners of Sweet Sal’s.

Debbie, could you tell us a little about what your day-to-day life is like?

Most of the girls my age are in college, but I decided to stay in Laguna Beach and help my parents out at our family run soda shop. I have the best life ever! I live across the street from the Pacific Ocean, and love spending time at the cliffs, watching the waves lap the shore. When I’m at the soda shop, the jukebox is always playing. I’m gaga over Elvis’s new song, “Love Me Tender.” It’s all the rage with teen girls right now. Of course, I’m also head over heels for Bobby Conrad, but don’t tell my friends, okay? They think I’m more mature than most of the other teen girls who hang out Sweet Sal’s. Of course, I’m a little distracted by that new guy, Johnny Hartman. He’s so sweet and handsome, and I hear he’s a great singer, too!

Johnny, I read in another article that you came all the way from Topeka Kansas to Hollywood to make it big. How does Hollywood compare to Topeka?

There’s really no way to compare Topeka to Los Angeles. People out here (in California) are more up on current styles, the hottest tunes and the hippest actors and actresses. Back home, folks are so grounded. That isn’t always the case here in L.A. I hope I don’t sound too stuck up when I say that back in Topeka, I was a big fish in a small pond. And because my dad’s a pastor, I had plenty of opportunities to sing in church. But out here in L.A. no one even knows who I am. My agent, Jim Jangles, is working hard to get me a gig on television. I’m auditioning for Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts soon. Say a little prayer for me!

Bobby, I understand you were slotted to sing at the fundraiser at Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe, but had to cancel. Could you explain your sudden departure?

Yes, I was scheduled to sing at the fundraiser, but just got word that I’ll be filming my new movie that same weekend. I was really disappointed to have to tell the Carmichaels the news, but hopefully they understand. I think it’s going to be okay, because my agent, Jim Jangles, is sending his latest prodigy—a kid from Topeka named Johnny Hartman—in my place. I hear he’s quite a singer.

Sal, could you tell our readers about some of the Hollywood stars you’ve met over
the years?

First of all, thanks for including me in this interview! It’s been decades since I was a teen, but I still secretly read Hollywood Heartthrob magazine. (Shh! Don’t tell my husband, Frankie, or my daughter, Debbie!) I’m blessed to be the co-owner of Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe in Laguna Beach, and I’ve met a lot of stars who’ve come through on their way to places like Dana Point and San Diego. Here’s a list of some of my favorites: Doris Day, Gregory Peck, Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Ozzie and Harriet. There are dozens more, of course. I want to personally invite all of your readers to stop by Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe so that they can see the photos on our walls! And while you’re here, why not enjoy a creamy chocolate malt?

Debbie, a little birdie told me that you and the other girls in Laguna Beach are gaga over Elvis, Pat Boone and Bobby Conrad. Now that you’ve gotten to know (and love) Johnny Hartman, what would you say sets him apart from the other great singers you’ve known?

Oh, no doubt about it. . .Johnny isn’t just a great singer, he’s got a heart of gold. I especially love his strong faith. Unlike so many of the other singers in town, he doesn’t put himself first. With Johnny, it’s God first. . .all the way! And when he sings. . .man! That voice! It’s a smooth as velvet. (And it doesn’t hurt that he’s so dreamy! Talk about handsome!)

Johnny, you’ve been asked to fill in for Bobby Conrad at the Laguna Beach fundraiser. Can you tell us how you’re feeling as you look forward to the big day?

I don’t mind admitting I’m a little nervous. Who wouldn’t be? Thousands of girls from Orange County and beyond are looking forward to seeing Bobby Conrad in person. Now I’ve been asked to fill in for him. I’ll be lucky if they don’t boo me off the stage or toss rotten tomatoes at me! Hopefully my new love song—the one I wrote for the gorgeous Debbie Carmichael—will win them over. I hope so, anyway!

Bobby, many Christians have a hard time hanging onto their faith once they achieve
stardom. You seem so grounded. What’s your secret?

I always try to honor God in everything I do—whether it’s movies or songs for the radio. There’s a verse that I love, and it’s one I try to live by: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” The way I look at it, if I make a choice to put God first, He’s going to bless me above and beyond anything I could ever ask for, anyway. Even if He didn’t bless me, though, I would still serve Him. It’s really the only way to live a fulfilling life. (And trust me when I say that people out here in L.A. are looking for ways to live a fulfilling life!)

Sal, we were sorry to hear about your husband’s health problems. How is he doing now?

Praise the Lord, Frankie seems to be doing a little better. His heart attack several months ago really shook us up. And we got behind on the mortgage, which has made me a little nervous. Still, I choose to trust God. And now that everyone in town is banding together to put on the fundraiser to save the soda shop, I’m feeling more hopeful than ever!

Debbie, is there anything you’d like Hollywood Heartthrob readers to know as we end this interview?

Yes, I would like people to know that it is possible to live in Hollywood—to be a big star, even—and still be a person of faith. I’ve witnessed it in Bobby Conrad’s life, and in Johnny’s, too. I’d also like to share that putting your trust in God is really the only way to go. Some problems are just too big for us to handle on our own. When my dad got really sick, I made up my mind to try to “fix” the situation. What I’ve learned is this—only God can truly “fix” anything. And trust me when I say that His “fix” is far greater than anything we could ever dream up!

Thanks so much, folks! It’s been a great interview.

Well, there you have it, Hollywood Heartthrob fans. This is Sunset Sam, signing off for this week. See you next time!





Book can be purchased on my site at www.janicehannathompson.com or at www.amazon.com.

GIVEAWAY INFO: Janice Hanna Thompson is hosting a giveaway on her facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/jhannathompson). To enter, leave a comment on her page with the name of your favorite ‘50s star (movies or music) and explain why you liked him/her. The drawing to win the Be-Boppin’ ‘50s Basket (filled with great ‘50s memorabilia) will take place on the weekend of October 29th – 31st. Why? Because that’s the same weekend Janice is directing a local (Houston) production of JOHNNY BE GOOD the musical comedy that served as inspiration for LOVE ME TENDER.



To visit Janice’s webpage, go here: www.janicehannathompson.

Bittersweet

Potty training William has been a really bittersweet experience for me. While I LOVE that he is no longer in diapers and I do NOT miss changing dirty diapers, the thought of him being old enough to use the potty is kinda sad. It marks the end of a really long chapter in my life. The baby stage. He is really no longer a baby. That has been really tough for me to accept. I know that things change and our babies all grow up, but it always seems hard to pass one phase and on to the next. It's been harder knowing that he is the last baby. Unless God has other plans, we will not be having any more, so it's been hard to let it go. Seven and a half years of bottles, diapers, late night feedings, and potty training, it's coming to an end. But I know that bigger and better things are coming for our family, and that he will move on to other stages. But why is it soooo hard to deal with the fact that he is no longer my baby? I'm proud of him for potty training and look forward to the day when it's all done. And looking forward to what lies ahead for him and all my babies.

Fall

I love fall. It's my favorite time of year. The heat starts to die down, the leaves change and start to fall. I love the colors of fall, I have candles in fall colors on my mantle. Oh and fall candles! Apple cider, pumpkin spice, leaves...I love them! Fall is truly the best part of the year. It's cool enough to be outside with the kids, but it's nice to stay in and snuggle up. We like to go outside and look at the leaves changing colors and the kids like to play in them. I love fall.

no catchy title

just stuff... :)

It has rained ALL day today. I think I may go crazy. We have been stuck in the house all day, and with three kids, that is stressful! William is doing well on potty training, we spend lots of time running back and forth to the potty, but he seems to be getting the idea. He still fights me every time we go, and throws fits while he's on the potty. But he's so excited when he actually goes in the potty. Hopefully he'll settle down soon and the fighting back will stop and he'll start going on his own.
Gwen came home today, and Annabelle rejoiced. She missed her big sister soo much. Gwen got two days worth of homework caught up in about two hours today. She is so smart! She is doing really well on Switched On Schoolhouse. She really loves it and is getting better at using the computer as well.
Annabelle caught up her schoolwork today as well. She is doing well in kindergarten aged work. She is writing better and beginning to read a little more. She still has trouble writing her letters and numbers, but she will get it. She is still young, and doing well either way. I'm so proud of my girls.
William apparently knows some of his shapes. He was playing with a puppy with a heart on the tag and he yells out "heart!". Smart boy. He counts, usually not objects, but sometimes, and has gotten as high as 13. He can count objects up to about four. He knows some colors to! WOW! Where did he learn all this?

I did a new workout tonight. A set of 2 pull ups, 4 chair dips, 6 push ups, 8 weighted box steps for 20 minutes. Wow, hard. Then I ran for ten minutes afterwards. I'm tired. But it's gonna be worth it, right?

Measurements

I took my measurements this morning and thought I would share them with you!

Waist- 31 inches, down from 32
Hips- 35.5 inches, down from 36.5
Chest- 33 inches, down from 34...hmm
Arm- 10 inches, holding from 10 inches
Thigh- 21 inches, down from 22

Makes me pretty happy, even thought I weigh EXACTLY the same!

Today

Today was core synergistics day. Man, I'm tired! But it's all gonna be worth it, right? I'll admit that I had to take a few breaks, it really kicked my butt! But, I feel good, if not a little tired. Hoping to start to see some results, even just a little bit, soon. I also got William's toys sorted out and his room cleaned. I cleaned out a huge black trash bags worth of stuff he never plays with! Got the girls to go through their stuff as well and got a bag out of there as well. Vacuumed the living room in between that. The girls did a great job sorting out their old toys!

Tonight vocal team starts back up! Yay, I'm excited! Choir is next. I can't wait to get back to singing.

So, yesterday, I went out with my friend Me. and we got our nails done.(Me is Melessia) Phil took the kids to ballet and we took her little boy with us. It was fun, even though they set us in completely different areas! The lady who did my nails was really nice, up until she asked if I wanted my eyebrows waxed. That bothered me, more than when they asked if I wanted a pedicure. I hate when people try to sell me stuff! But we had fun and got to talk while we were at my house and in the car up there. :) But a big thanks to Phil for taking all the kids to ballet on his own! I know that was tough for him!

catching up

Yesterday was a dance workout day. I like to do them between p90x days, to recover a little! I'm actually getting better at the choreography! I have noticed a change in my clothes, even though the scale hasn't budged! Yay! Today is going to be core synergistics. Fun stuff!

Today Annabelle is going to catch up on her school work. We have missed a couple of days. SO we will be doing that this afternoon. She is doing pretty well, even if she is behind! Gwen is doing really well in her school work. She's so smart! I am going to load the spanish program onto her computer today, hopefully, so she can start working on that as well. Tomorrow is play day at the park! They really enjoy that.

Vocal team practice tonight, AND choir starts soon! WHOOOHOO! Looking forward to it!

So, how are you doing on your workout program? Making any progress? Share with me!!

Today's workout

Today I did Kenpo X, one of my favorite workouts! I couldn't do every rep, I hurt my right leg and ankle last week and it's still tender, but I was able to keep up pretty well. I'm tired and hot, but feel good anyway! So, now on to the rest of my day and watching what I eat!

How are YOU doing today!

Weightloss Journey

I have started trying to lose some weight and workout and be healthier! So I thought that I would post here about my journey! So I'll start out with the basic info..stats.
Weight-140
Measurements
Waist- 33 inches
Hips- 37 inches
Chest- 34 inches

Goals- lose 20 lbs
lose at lease 5 inches off each measurement.
Time Frams- one month
(I know those are a little high, so I am expecting a little less!)Aim Hight you know!

I will be working out several times a day. Probably rotating between p90x and several dance based workouts. So, here we go! Everything is easier when we do it together, right?

Favorites

As moms, we have ALL been told not to openly favor one child over the other. But have you noticed that some times, one child or the other does become the favorite? For me it changes almost daily. On days that I am kinda blue and need hugs and kisses, my middle child becomes my favorite, because she is cuddly and sweet and gives kisses and hugs freely. On days when I need help at home, my oldest becomes my favorite. She loves to clean and pick up and is very tidy. On days when I just need a laugh, my little man fills the spot. He is funny and goofy and loves to make people laugh.
I spend a lot of time at home with just my kids, hubby has to work you know! So some days having the special talent of each child is truly a Godsend. My kids can each speak to a spot in my soul that needs uplifting. It's amazing what God has put into each of them!
I think our kids just seem to know what we need sometimes. I am not saying to OVERTLY favor any one child, but sometimes let them give you what you need to make it through! God knew what He was doing when He gave us our children, He knew what we needed and when we would need it.

Someday..

Someday, I'll understand why I have the dreams I do. Someday I'll know why they seem to stay out of reach. Someday I won't stress about them. Someday I'll learn to let God deal with it.
Someday I'll miss how my kids liked to get up early and play in the hallway. I'll miss how much my babies liked cereal bars for breakfast. Someday I'll miss how much they wanted me to hold them, even when I didn't feel good, or my feet hurt, or they had a runny nose. I'll miss how they would run full speed down the hall and tackle hug me. Someday I'll remember how much they loved homeschooling, even when they said it was boring.
Someday I'll still dislike Sesame Street, but remember how much my babies loved it. Someday I'll be happy I spent all this time in school. Someday it won't seem like it was so hard. Someday I'll look back on my life and smile. But right now I need to smile and enjoy the memories for someday we are making now!

Off and running!

The girls have both started their schoolwork for the year! Gwen is getting the hang of Switched On Schoolhouse, and Annabelle is having fun in her workbook. They seem to be enjoying themselves! William is still being a pain while they work, but that's what he does!
I start school next week. Boo. I picked up my medical terminology book yesterday and it is an awful lot like my anatomy book.....booo. I have to go pick up my other books later this week. Ugh, another Pharmacology book.. But I can do it. I WILL pass these last classes and do well on my interview for Surgical Tech. :) I am excited about it.
Choir and vocal team will be picking up soon. Wednesday's will be crazy. I probably won't be leading worship on Wednesday nights. It's too much. I am really hoping to do more with the vocal team this year, I really am. I feel like I am kinda stuck. So maybe things will pick up. I am so excited to be leading on Sunday mornings for the kids now! It's been really great! I even got to lead on promotion Sunday with all our new kids! It was awesome!
Our week is filling up with stuff. Tuesdays Gwen has ballet, Wednesday is church, Thursday is play day at the park, Saturday and Sunday is church. Then almost everyone is in school, well William is the only one who isn't!

Workin It

I started working out again this afternoon! P90X yo! Gotta get in shape for our trip to Florida. Today was tough and I am tired! But I am going to try to keep at it and get in shape. I put the kids to bed early tonight and ended up going swimming, something about going without them seems soooo wrong, but it is really nice to have some alone time to do something that I like to do. So it was really nice.
Class starts in a week or so, joy. I have orientation next Saturday for Medical Term. Still waiting to find out what books I'm going to need and all that good stuff. But it's all good.

I made some bread today! And it was AMAZING! Trying to NOT eat it because of the whole diet/working out stuff. But the kids loved it, I gave them some with their dinner tonight. Been getting the house cleaned back up during my break. Doing pretty good, but there is a lot left to do. Ugh, it never seems to end. Next week we are cleaning out and getting rid of stuff, YAY!

I am also joining the Drama Ministry at church! Exciting huh? I know. AND we are starting homeschool up again on Monday! Have to sit down on Sunday and try to get everything loaded up on the computers. I think Gwen is really going to enjoy the computer based curriculum this year.

Fun times

Today I took the kids to park day with our homeschool group. We went to Bear Branch park and played for over an hour! They had such a good time! It was good to see them playing with their friends. We came home when all the kids ran out of water, then we had lunch and the kids took a nap! It was nice. Then we went swimming and had some ice cream. So it's been a really nice day. Now we are sitting together watching CyberChase. No if I could only figure what to make for dinner... I'll go rummage through the fridge soon.

We got our curriculum in the mail yesterday! Yay! Now to set everything up and get ready to start school next week. Gwen will be in third grade and Annabelle is starting kindergarten! OMG, when did they get so big? Looking forward to a good year with them!

My classes start up again on the 30th. It's getting pretty close. I am hoping that I can do well in them. They are the last two of my prerequisite classes. Now I am waiting to hear back from the surgical tech department at the college.

now for a break

I am done with my Anatomy class! Yay! Now I can take a little tiny break and have some fun! I am planning on taking my kids to the play group that our homeschool group is having later this week, going swimming with them and maybe making a trip to the park on our own! It's nice to be able to plan fun stuff again! We may go swimming tomorrow, but I have GOT to clean my room first! It has gotten bad in there since that is where I do most of my school work.So, fun and cleaning are on the agenda for the next couple of days, about two weeks. Then on to Medical Terminology and Pathophysiology. I know, you're jealous of how fun that sounds. Who wouldn't be?

So today has been a pretty good day for me, Phil even took me to dinner and World Market. It was awesome!

first ballet class!

Gwen's first ballet class of the year is today! Back at Excelsior! She is excited to be back and to see her friends again. I am glad that we are no longer in a Friday class!

I took my Anatomy final today and made an 83! Yay, I passed!! I am soo excited! Now I can move on to my next two classes.

Spent some time with my friend Me today. She brought her little boy over to play with William today. He really enjoyed having another little boy to play with. I enjoyed having her over to talk and hang out.

Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.8

endocrine glands!!!!

Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.8

Omg, almost done with class!

I have my final lab class tomorrow! One more exam and then my final and then I am done with this class! I may even be able to get an A! We'll see. So pray for me. One more chapter to read, then MASSIVE review! I CAN do it! Right?

We ordered Gwen's new curriculum for this year. We are using Switched on Schoolhouse. She is really looking forward to using the computer! I am excited for her, I think she will do really well this year! She is really smart and I think the challenge of third grade will be good for her. She is gonna do so well! I'm so proud of her.

Annabelle got her kindergarten book today! When did my Buggy get old enough and smart enough to be in kindergarten? She is only 4, almost 5. She is super excited about it, she wouldn't even put the book in the shopping cart today! She's done good with he transition book from pre-k to kindergarten so now she is ready to try kinder level work. She is looking forward to kindergarten graduation. I'm so proud of her!

William has been William. Sweet and irritating and loving and obnoxious. He is doing great with swimming. He is now in just the little water wings and loves to jump off the ladder and go under the water. If I could get the boy to potty train, we'd be great! But he's a good boy, he'll learn some day. We did have a very successful potty trip about three days ago, but nothing since. Hopefully he gets on board soon. I'm proud of him for trying, at least when he wants.

Fun Weekend

So, Phil actually had the ENTIRE weekend off! It was great! So Friday we packed up all the kids and headed to BLUEBELL! WHOO! I have been dying to go there forever! So we drive up there and the kids are so excited. We buy our tickets and have lunch on the grass, and every couple of minutes Annabelle asks if we can get our ice cream yet. We keep telling her it's at the end of the tour. Finally we finish lunch then head to the gift shop. We got the kids each a pencil, of their choice, and a ruler to go with it. Phil got me a cowbell and key chain and a pink pencil. :) By then it's time to line up to head inside. We get inside and they are making Belles favorite ice cream, strawberry. I think she quit paying attention at that point and was just waiting to get downstairs again to get some strawberry ice cream. We saw them make ice cream sandwiches and the little tubs of ice cream to send to the schools. Gwen even pointed out that our tour guide and I were wearing the same watch. So,it was finally time to go get the highly anticipated ice cream. All the kids (well we picked Williams) got to pick their flavour. I'm sure you can guess what Belle had, Gwen had dutch chocolate, I started with cookie dough then ended up swapping for Phil's Krazy Kookie Dough. It was much fun. Annabelle was so excited that there were real strawberries in her ice cream!
Saturday we all went to a birthday party some of our friends were throwing. The kids had tons of fun, because everyone thought they were adorable. William ended up in the hot tub, fully clothed. Lucky for him the other little boy that was there wore the same size clothes and his mommy gave him some. We even got to witness a little boy get his tooth pulled out. It was lots of fun!
Sunday we had church then we met Phil's parents for lunch at Red Robin, for Phil's birthday. OMG so GOOOOD! We let the kids ride to the cabin with their grand parents (much joy for my kids!) and we all headed that way to hang out and have cake.

All in all a really great weekend! But now, on to the last couple days of class and TONS of homework!

So proud

For any of you that know Annabelle, you know that she is pretty shy. Well this week at dance camp has been soo good for her. I spoke to her teachers today and they told me that she is being very good, listens well, doesn't cause trouble, pays attention well. Wow, I'm so proud of her. I was a little concerned when we put her in, but she seems to be doing so well! She is having lots of fun and seems to be making some friends. She has been showing us some of her dances, like her elephant dance, and she is soo darn cute! I'm glad that we signed her up for this, she is growing in so many ways! Way to go BuggyBoo!

Can I do it? I'm going to try!

I am aiming to make a 90 on my next test. I got an 88 on my last one, so a 90 is just a few points higher! I have been studying hard, but taking a little break for the night. I really need to keep my grades up so I can take my next class. But I am going to keep working and hopefully I will make that 90! Whoohoo!

cool

blogging from my phone!!!

Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.8

Reading, and more reading...

Yeah, reading. But not that fun relaxing kind. The kind that you walk away from and go, "OMG, am I going to remember ANY of this? How much of that is going to be on the test? Are my notes good enough? Am I taking TOO many notes? Will I have time to reread ALL of this stuff?" Stressful reading.
I read just about half of my chapter tonight. It was a lot of work. I can finish the rest in the afternoon, then start on the last half. Then study for my quiz. Then prep for chapter 10. I am sooo looking forward to being done with this class. I am praying to do well and doing the best that I can. But, once I am done with this class I can take my patho class. Then I will be just about done with the prereqs for Surgical Technology.

Buggies big day!

Annabelle had her first dance class today! She is going to dance camp at the school where Gwen dances. She is soo very excited about it! She got a new leotard and tights, and couldn't wait to wear them! She had SOOO much fun! She is looking forward to tomorrow. She will be in camp until Thursday. It's a big deal for her because Annabelle can be very shy. So getting her around new kids and teachers is really difficult for her most of the time. But she did great and wasn't afraid or anything. She danced, did a little craft and ate lunch at the studio. She was exhausted when we got home.
While she was in class, we took Gwen and William shopping. Phil stopped at the 99 cent store and Big Lots. Then we took Gwen to Jazz Rags and bought her a new leotard for her upcoming classes and we tried to get her shoes, but they didn't have her width. So they are transferring some and I guess they will call us when they are in.
Now the girls are sleeping, and I am hanging with William. I have lots of homework to do, so will have to get to that soon.

like it or leave it

I've spent a lot of time worrying about getting certain people to like me. And hard as I try I have realized that I just don't fit in with a lot of them. So, I have decided to just back off and if they like me that's great but if not that's there problem. If they would actually take time to get to know me instead of being so judgemental they would really like me, I think. I've spent a lot of my life trying to get people to like me. And I'm not going to do it any more. I am funny and smart and have a lot to offer. If people chose to not get to know me because I don't fit their mold, that's their loss. I'm not saying I'm the greatest thing ever, and I realize that not everyone likes everyone else. I'm just not going to try to change who I am for people who don't care any way. :) I'm me, that's it. Jesus loves me even if others don't like me and my loud self.

Worth it

So I decided to go for the 30 days of brown rice and veggies thing. BUT today Phil brought home taco bell for me for doing well on my test and improving my grade so much. As well as to celebrate some stuff in my brothers life. SO, today I had tacos for lunch and will finish the last couple for dinner. But tomorrow I will be back on track with my diet! But it was so nice of him to go get my favorite food for us! What a great hubby I have! So while I broke my diet, it was worth it. I will just start back up tomorrow.

And now we come to the pay off

So, I studied my rear off for two weeks, and made an 88 on my Anatomy Exam! YES! I have been making 80's and my goal was a 90. But 88 is close enough! I'm really excited about it!

Work Harder

So I need to work harder in my Anatomy class. I am making 80's on my test and that really isn't as good as I would like. I really need to spend more time studying and taking notes from my chapters. Especially since I have a quiz and two tests this week, including a lab next Saturday. So, I will be spending less time online and more time with my notes and books. I am hoping for an A in this class. I have to pass this class to take the next class I need, Pathopysiology. Sounds exciting huh? I can't imagine how much harder that class will be. I am also taking Medical Terminology next semester. But hopefully all this work ahead of time will pay off, I'll be taking substantially fewer classes if I make it into the Surgical Tech program.

I am also thinking of starting a different diet. I was thinking about going on a brown rice and veggies diet. Just to see how I would feel. I am thinking of doing it for 30 days. Which coincidentally is about how many days of Anatomy class I have left.

Big Things

I feel like big things are coming up for me and my family. Hoping that maybe there is some fulfillment of dreams. Maybe I will get the chance to sing or something. Who knows, I just know that something is coming! Can't wait to see what it is! I am supposed to lead worship for the kids this Sunday. It' going to be great. I really enjoy leading for the kids. But I haven't even picked my two songs. Sigh, I will though. It seems to be so hard to pick two songs. I'm not sure why. Hopefully someday it will be easier. Sundays are still a little tough for me. But it will get better.

Fun Times

We made yummy snickerdoodles today! They were soooo good! The girls were super happy because they got to help out. Annabelle loooves to cook so this was really great for her. William and Gwen were really more excited to EAT the cookies. Uncle Ron came over to help make cookies and stooped and got some chicken on the way over. Dinner was awesome! We went swimming after Phil got home from class, BEFORE he left for work. William is such a good swimmer, he LOVES the pool. Annabelle likes to be thrown around in the pool. The higher the better. Gwen is working hard on learning to swim, although she is tall enough to stand up in the pool, but she is coming along quite well. She wants to be able to swim before we go to Florida.

Right now I am actually supposed to be studying and getting ready for my quiz that opens tomorrow, but I needed a little brain break.

Ron and I spent the day watching country music videos, mostly of songs we remember from being kids. Still so great! I have decided that I am going to sing country music. Watch out vocal team! ( not that they will read this or give me the chance to sing any country. ) LOL. But that's ok, I will sing it here and to anyone else who likes to hear it!
So, all in all it was a really great day. Especially when we found out that William looks like Kenny Chesney when you put his cowboy hat on him. And flip flops. It's stinkin adorable!

Whoot!

I got an A in my pharmacology class! YAY! One class closer to Surgical Tech!

so busy..

We have been SOOO busy the last couple of weeks! Summer classes are KILLER! I just finished my Pharmacology class, now I just have to survive Anatomy! But, I did get my Surgical Technology application turned it! Yay!

The kids are really enjoying the slower pace of summer "school". They don't have much homework to do, but there is still some. I just don't want them wasting time and not learning anything. So we have them working on in between grade books. Gwen is moving on to third grade soon, so she is working on getting ready for that. I can't believe she's going into third grade! And she is only seven! Smart girl!

There really isn't much to share, we haven't had time to do much. We go to church at least three times a week, ballet once a week, and I have a lab class every two weeks.

Gwen is loving her summer ballet class! She is having so much fun! We missed last week because William hurt himself and we couldn't make it. But he is better and we should be able to go tomorrow. Fun stuff.

I am watching all my kids sit and color together in the living room, they are such good kids. I am one blessed momma! I have the best kids ever. :0)

sign me up!

I read somewhere that you can get paid to blog. How do I get in on that? Sign me up!! I have the ability to blog away! Can you imagine getting paid to sit down and write up a little something on someone or a product and actually make money? How does it work? I don't know but I wish that I did! So, who wants to pay me to blog about them or their service??? Let me know!!

For Sale!!

Home made laundry soap!!! One batch of this lasts my family of 5 more than a month, sometimes two months!

Five dollars per batch, if you are local such as church or family members, no shipping. If you are not, there will be a moderate shipping charge.

This soap is powdered, safe for all clothes, safe to use in front load and HE washing machines. It does NOT bubble up! You only need one tablespoon for a large load. Less for a smaller load!

if you are interested let me know! Leave a comment!

Dreams... do they really come true?

So, ever since I was little I wanted to take ballet. I know, most people wouldn't think that. But it's true. And now since my daughter is taking ballet, it's really come back to me. But, I can't afford to take them because we are paying for hers. So, what can I do? Right now I am just praying that God would make it happen. Hopefully He will make things happen, or just take this desire away.

I also have the dream of being a worship leader. But, I don't even know how that will ever happen. I love doing worship for the kids, but it's not really the same thing, is it? I'm happy with where I am, don't get me wrong. But I don't want to stay here forever.


I feel like all my dreams are so far out of reach. I don't know what to do. There is really nothing that I can do to make things happen, and I really am tired of living with the ache of these dreams that seem like they are never going to come true. I wish that I knew if they were ever going to come true. Surely God wouldn't give me dreams just to let them sit and never be realized, would He?

Choir Tomorrow!

The choir is going to sing in Montgomery tomorrow! Yay, it's going to be fun! I love going to Montgomery to sing.Looking forward to it!

Share my geekey joy!

I got to go see the Surgical Tech classroom the other day! It was AWESOME! So exciting! Then I got to go see the Biology labs and look at my books in the bookstore! Yay! Yes, I'm a geek, but I'm awesome anyway!

Break almost over...:(

So, my break from school is almost over, boooo! Classes start June 7, yay. I am praying to make it through and pass. ugggh.

I am almost looking forward to it, but kinda not. I like the idea of having something to do that isn't house work, but I know it's going to be hard and really time consuming and my kids will be totally annoying. Because they are kids, and it's what they do.

My little man is learning to swim! He actually let go of our hands and swam by himself yesterday! (he is in a floaty vest, but he usually won't let go of his adult) so we are really proud of him! Gwen has mastered the doggy paddle, and is really proud!
Gwen has a recital coming up! yay, it's going to be so amazing! I can't wait to see it!June 12, at 7:00 pm. I am picking up all the tickets tonight! She is going to be great! She is also finished with second grade and getting ready for third! We got these great summer bridge books that take her from second grade to third grade level work. She is working through it pretty quickly. She's a smart girl.

We bought a van! Yay for space between kids and less arguing on the road! SOOOO NICE! Looking forward to taking it on our trip to Florida! We have room for all our stuff and the kids won't drive each other, or us, crazy! It' going to be great! (and I'll be done with all my classes by then!) Bonus!



I am trying to be positive, I am, but I am having a tough time. I feel really disconnected from my friends. I never get to see them, cause, lets face it, I'm stuck with all these kids all the time. I miss them, I miss having adult women to hang out with.

I did it!

I passed my math class! Not with a C either, I got a B! Can you believe it! I was SHOCKED when I found out! Now I can move on to my next two classes. Anatomy and Pharmacology. Exciting stuff huh?
However, the progression of my classes does raise some questions for our family. We will need a sitter for several labs this semester. And probably for test as well. We are hoping that Phil can do most of them, but I don't have the schedule yet so we don't know. But if he can't we don't know if his parents can watch the kids, or maybe his sister, or one of our friends.. what will we be able to pay them? CAN we pay someone? Then next is the question of what we are going to do when I HAVE to take my classes on campus? That is coming up soon, sooner than I think even I realize. Will we be able to keep homeschooling? I really want to. I am hoping to find someone to stay with them and help them do their school work. I do NOT want to have to put them in school. Especially since only Gwen and later in the year, Annabelle, will be able to go to public school. But I really want to avoid that at all costs. Please pray for us about this.

I am leading worship for the kids again this Sunday! It's lots of fun, I really love it. BUT, with so much going on, I am afraid that I may have to stop doing Wednesday nights. I still have vocal team, but over the summer there is no choir practice. I guess it will depend on how school works out.

So much is going on, so many decisions need to be made, or are about the need to be made... it's good, but still stressful!

On a fun note, I am taking the kids to the library in Tomball Saturday! Phil will be working so they will get to see him and have fun at the Library! I really like the colleges library, so this should be fun!

A big step..

So, I have taken a really big and pretty scary step. I turned in my application for our worship leader training at church, The David Project. I will find out when I audition later this week or next. I will have to sing for my worship leader, that's pretty intimidating for me. But I am going to go and do my best. I really debated doing this, but I decided that if God wants me in, He will make it happen. But I would never make it if I didn't even try. So, I am stepping out, and it's scary, but I am ready to see what God is going to do.

On a positive note, I got to lead worship for the kids on Sunday and it went great! I really enjoyed it!

FINISHED!

Today I took my math final! I am DONE with this class! Now just praying that I passed! WHOOHOO! Tonight, I am going to stay up late and read a book! Really looking forward to some down time. I worked hard and hopefully I passed my math class. Not really worrying about my psych class. I am pretty sure that I did well. I really like psychology.

break coming up!

I have a break between classes coming up in about a week in a half or so. Two weeks off! I have finally decided what I am going to do!
Play my guitar
Singing practice
Workout at my normal time
Read It Had to Be You, by Janice Hanna
Work on Annabelle's kindergarten work.

It's going to be glorious! SOOOOO looking forward to it!

Another note

Gwen will finish her homeschool this week, hopefully! She will be finishing second grade! Yay for Gwen! Over the summer I will be getting Annabelle more used to working every day on Kinder. I'm not pushing her to much, she is still young. I will try to finish most of kindergarten over the summer. We will see how she does. She is doing good with identifying all the uppercase letters, so we will move to lowercase letters. She can write pretty well. She is doing good. Gwen will be moving to a computer based curriculum next year, she will like that.

Need to breathe...

The end of the semester is upon us! I have a math and psych final to take, I think there is another psych test first, but no idea! So I am trying to get as much studying in as possible. I really need a good grade on my math final. SO, I am seeking help, going to sit down with a friend before choir on Wednesday. Maybe he can help me figure this stuff out!
Speaking of Wednesday, I am leading worship for the kids, but before that I am getting an evaluation from my choir director. Hopefully it will go well and I won't freak out and get nervous. We will see.

We had William's second birthday party on Saturday. We got a pool and a dog earlier that same week. Upon arriving at our house and walking into the backyard, my 11 year old nephew says, "That is a SWEET pool." I almost drowned. It was really funny. The party went pretty well. It ended up being only family, no one else could make it. But we had cake and ice cream and presents. William got a drum set, he loves it.

There has been lots of swimming going on. The kids love the pool and we are teaching them to swim. William loves to hold Daddies hands and kick his feet. Gwen and Annabelle are doing well even taking floaties off to swim solo. It's fun to watch them figure it out.

Thursday we have a church plant meeting. Yay! I really enjoy them. We went to a friend of ours new church on Sunday. It was great, the message was just what I needed. Trying to keep it in mind this week. It's been hard and stressful already. Saturday is Gwen's ballet exam, so pray for her. I think she will do great. Unfortunately I don't think she will be in ballet next year, we can't really afford it. So if anyone out there wants to donate $58 dollars a month, that would be great. Sunday morning I am helping to lead worship for the kids. Fun stuff. But in between all of this, I have SOOOOO MUCH studying to do. I am looking forward to being done and having some space to breathe. Pray for me, I don't think I did well on my last math test, and I have to have a c average to get into surg. tech classes. If I don't pass this math class, I can't take pharmacology next semester. So pray that some of this studying sticks and my hard work will pay off, would you?

Getting Comfortable, birthdays, and clothes...

I am becoming more comfortable where God has me serving. I enjoy leading worship for the kids on Wednesday nights and when I can on Sunday. I am getting comfortable with being a part of the vocal team and working with everyone at practice and not just waiting to see what the other singers are doing. I am getting comfortable enough in choir to actually lead worship when I can. I am happy to be getting comfortable. I am enjoying being in a place that will teach me what I need to know to move into what I feel God has called me too. It's a good feeling!

William will be two on Saturday. It's hard for me to accept that he is no longer a baby. He is my big boy, even if he still wants to be called my baby. I guess it's always hard to see the last baby growing up. I know it is for me. I am afraid I will be a wreck on Saturday, and that can't happen because there is just to much to do! I love my little man, and am glad that he is growing into a sweet little boy. It's just hard to let go of my baby man.

My girls got another round of "new" clothes today! They are so blessed! Thanks Auntie Heather! They love getting more clothes, I think they like it when they are hand me downs from other girls they know. They have never balked at the idea of wearing someone elses stuff. They love it. Sweet girls!

Someday my post will go back to being more entertaining and funny and all, but right now there just isn't time! But I still love the few of you that stop by and read!

Slackin...

I have been slacking lately. I haven't been doing my vocal practice like I should be. I know. I'm just busy, and frankly, frustrated and don't want to do it. But I should. So that I can push past this and maybe make some improvements. So, I'm going to put on my big girl pants and just do it! Just wanted to share with you all, maybe someone will read this and help keep me going!

Big Bad

Looking for something fun and humorous to take your kids to? Our church is putting on a production of Big Bad! All the information you need is below. Plus, Gwen is playing Little Miss Muffit, so, you know, you have to come see her!!



The Woodsedge Childrens Ministry Production Team Presents...

Big Bad
The criminal master mind of the century, The Big Bad Wolf, is finally going to get what's coming to him as he faces a class-action law suit brought by Little Red Riding Hood and her Grandmother, The Three Little Pigs and The Boy Who Cried Wolf! Will he pay the price for his deeds? Guilty? Innocent? Hung Jury? Who will decide? You are the jury! You decide his fate! Every performance is a chance to see justice prevail!

Show Times~
Friday, April 23- 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 24- 2:00, 4:00 and 7:00 pm

Location: Woodsedge Church 25333 Gosling Road Spring, Texas 77389
Kid's Live Area 1

Tickets- $2

Proceeds of tickets sales will benefit Royal Family Kids Camp
A week long summer camp that extends God's love to abused and neglected children in Montgomery county.

Church Info

This church listed below is one that some friends of mine have started. If you or someone you know lives in this area, or close by, and are looking for a church, why don't you check it out?

Christian Life Community Church
Meeting @ The Rave Movie Theatre
15900 Yorktown Crossing Pkwy
Houston, TX 77084

Christian Life is a non-denominational, casual and contemporary church meeting at the Rave Movie Theatre in Northwest Houston. Please join us for our pre-launch services as we reach out to Houston in 2010 and where it's about real life, real people, and a real God.

For more information, visit our website: www.GetLife.org

What makes it worth it?

What makes being a momma worth it for you? What are the little things that your kids do or say that make you glad they are yours?

I love when the little ones wake up from a nap and are still warm from sleep and climb into my arms for a snuggle. Totally worth it.
I love making peanut butter sandwiches every day, and the kids still get so excited the get them.
I love that my seven year old is learning to write cursive and is proud of herself. Proud.
I love that my seven year old could sit on the couch and read all day.. and sometimes does.
I love that my seven year olds love of learning is rubbing off on my four year old. She asks almost every day to do her schoolwork as well.
I love when my misterman tackles me in the hall then asks for a hug. Who would say no?
I love that my seven year old tells me that even when she is 16 she will give me a hug whenever I want one. I'm holding her to it.
I love that my four year old comes out of bed at night to tell me that I forgot to take out her clippies, and that I told her she can't sleep in them.
I love when my three kids stand in the playhouse in the back yard and yell MOMMY MOMMY MOMMY at my window cause they know I can hear them and the all smile and wave every time I open the curtains.
I love hearing them pray, even mister man asks to pray now.
I love to hear my girls play their guitars and sing to Jesus.

It's all worth it. Every stressful, is it ever going to end day of it. For those reasons.

A great day

Yesterday, we had a really nice day here. Phil was home all day.Went to HomeDepot, we got some yard work done. Played with the kids while Phil painted our shed in the back yard, had dinner together even. We don't get to do that a lot, Phil is gone a lot of nights.The kids watched Daddy work on the motorcycle then we all went to BigLots! Yay, that is always lots of fun. Then daddy took everyone to get ice cream. The kids just loved it! Thank God for great family days!

Frustrations

My last couple of days have been awful. Just so very stressful. William was sick last week for a few days and he seems to be trying to make up for it. He has been cranky and clingy and whiny and demanding and confrontational. He is driving me totally up the wall. I just don't know what to do with him. The girls are trying to be good, but half of the time they make him worse. I love my kids but sometimes I wish they would go home with someone else.
I have two tests coming up, and I want to do well on them. I'm stressing over that because I have a friend who has a job and four kids and sings and all and has a 4.0 and just got accepted to a nursing program. And here I am with three kids at home and I can barley maintain a 3.0. I feel really inadequate.
I'm frustrated with all my singing stuff. I really thought that I was doing better and that vocal team auditions would work out differently. Don't get me wrong, I'm happy to be in the ensemble, but I thought I could do better.
I'm frustrated that we had so many technical problems Wednesday at kids worship.
I'm jealous of opportunities that have been presented to my hubby, when I can't seem to get into the program that I want to be in for worship.

I just don't understand why everything is so hard right now. I know it seems silly, but this is my frustration right now. I don't mean to vent to all of you, but sometimes things need to come out.

Time to commit

Starting Monday, I am committing to working out regularly and eating healthy. I am having Phil make up a workout plan for me, to use with my P90X routine, when I don't have the same kind of time. And going to work on an eating plan. Anyone else on the same wagon? I'm looking for someone to take this journey on with, someone who isn't my hubby.

Ugh, I HATE potty training!

I HATE the process of potty training. I truley HATE it. We have started training William, beyond just letting him sit on the potty. I have been sitting him on the toilet, every ten minutes or so for five minutes. He does NOTHING. He has even been holding it in for hours, just so he won't have to use the potty. Or he will pee in his underpants while sitting on my lap. Fun stuff. I am hoping that he gets with the program and doesn't drag this out. Annabelle took over a year to train! A YEAR! I am not diggin on that for a second time. William just doesn't want to sit still on the potty. UGH, so frustrating.

I did it!

I went to vocal team audtions last night! I did my best, my vocal director told me I did great! Now we will wait and see if I made the team. I'm not holding my breath, but it would be nice!

Flower Beds and Dining Rooms

So today we got our flower beds in order. We used almost seven bags of red mulch, two crotons, two box woods, two Queen Elizabeth roses and a peach tree. This was all to replace what we lost this winter to freeze. Weird, I know. It was actually pretty easy going since the ground was nice and soft still, so the digging stuff out part was easy. Putting down all the mulch took the longest. But it looks really nice in my front yard!

We also finally got the chairs for our dining room table. We got this nice new table given to us, but there were no chairs to go with it. SO we went to Ikea to get some. Well they had one that we liked, but they were out of stock. So we went home, and called back today, they told us last time that it would be five days, today they said two more weeks. Uh, no thanks. I LOVE Ikea, but I need my chairs. So we went to Garden Ridge, and bought the same chairs. And some flowers for my table, to go in my cute little buckets from Ikea. Now all that is left is to get rid of the other table and chairs and we will be all set. It looks really nice, I love it.

Tomorrow is vocal team auditions. I am going, but not really expecting much out of it. I would like to make the team and will do my best, but I can't go in under pressure, cause I will choke.. massively.

Spring Break....ummm...What?

So, there really is NO spring break in our house. I have TONS of schoolwork to do, including some catch up reading tonight. Gwen will still end up doing her work, because she likes to, and Annabelle will do hers because Gwen is doing hers. Then add all the other stuff that goes on around here, add in some yard work, and there is a busy spring break!

My great scholarship search has been postponed until tomorrow night. Yay! I have the paperwork, I just need to fill it out. By tomorrow I should have all my work caught up and have a little time to work on it. I have to be able to focus, ya know!

I got to help lead worship for the kids today! Lots of fun! We had a fair number of kids there, considering time change and spring break. Sunday is a little different than Wednesday night, just enough to make me feel a little out of sorts. But it's fun and I enjoy doing it.

We were TOTALLY blessed today. A woman from our church gave us four bags of little boys clothes. Now there were things that I need for MisterMan, like shirts and underpants, that I was going to have to find a way to buy. This woman sent EVERYTHING I needed, shirts, pants, winter clothes he will grow into, a pair of shoes, and underwear! Even a duplicate, in a bigger size, of a favorite outfit of his. Exact same shirt and pants combo, just one size up! How amazing is that??? I'm totally thrilled about it!

So, that's pretty much it for now. I am going to go fold some laundry, read my psych book and try to get a moderate workout in. Enjoy your spring break folks!

Hello? Is this thing on?

Is anyone out there? Anyone reading this? Sometimes I just wonder...

Grants, auditions, and curriculum.. oh my!

I am soo glad this semester is almost over! Looking forward to a little break before summer classes start. I will be spending my evening filling out scholarship paperwork.. sounds fun huh? You know you're jealous! But hopefully I can get more than just a Pell grant this semester, and maybe be able to pay a babysitter so I can go to my on campus classes. We will see.

Next week I am going to vocal team auditions. I am looking forward to it, but really have no expectations. I have heard that it's going to be pretty tough, so I am NOT holding my breath. I AM going to go in there and do my best! Maybe I'll make it in one of the ensembles.. ya never know! The biggest issue I am going to have is nerves, I get REALLY nervous when something is on the line. So I am going to treat it as though nothing is, it's just a fun night of someone telling me how to sing, and that I am going to do great. That should help!

The homeschool year is almost over, can you believe it? Gwen will be moving on to third grade soon. Annabelle will be working more into her Kindergarten stuff now and into summer. She is finally ready to accept that she can do school work and now that she is going to have to do it! I'm looking forward to seeing how she does. She is writing fairly well, colors quite nicely, working on reading. I think that she is pretty ready for Kinder, so we are going to start working on it more and more.
BTW, she just learned to tie her own shoes! Such a milestone!
I am looking into what we will be using next year for the kids. I think for Gwen we will be using Switched On Schoolhouse. It's the same curriculum we have been using, just electronic. I think she will enjoy it. I am looking to see if I can get a hold of Saxon math, because everyone raves about it, and scope it out. I don't want to spend a lot on a book, so hopefully someone has one I can borrow or buy cheap!

Just to fill ya in!

So last week was CRAZY busy! But I'll give you a brief overview!

First I had this paper due in Psych class. SO I go online to the college website to start working on it. My library card and student id don't work. So I call. They tell me that the card I have will work, but the site must be down. So Thursday I go down there, nothing is working. I talk to whomever was there, they tell me that my library card I have won't work there. So I get two more library cards in the end, a Lonestar College card and a HCPL card. Finally! I can find and print an article. I rush home and get the thing done, even longer than the recommended length. But it's done, now I just have to wait for my grade.

Wednesday night I led the children's worship service. It was really awesome, here is why. I was planning on singing that night, with this backing track. And I could do it, but it was a little high. So when I got to church there was a guy there who was helping with Haiti night. He had a guitar, and he knew the song I was going to sing! A miracle! So, I led two kids songs, then I got to sing for the kids! Amazing! The kids did great!
Then I go upstairs to choir practice, where I was singing the same song again. I did and it was great! NOT because of me, but as I was singing, I suddenly heard everyone else join in, and it was beautiful and amazing. I knew that I wanted to do it again! So, now I am waiting for another turn!

This weekend Phil and I went to a pyrotechnics class. It was fun, we passed our test, got another shoot out of the way. AND witnessed catastrophic failure. We had a low break that caught the other mortars on fire and ignited them, burning up the whole trailer they were sitting on. No one was hurt, but I'm sure the people in charge were embarrassed. But sometimes things just go wrong. All proper procedures were followed, there is nothing you can do about a bad mortar.

This is the brief version of my week. Today we are back at home, the kids are doing homework, I am cleaning and doing laundry and catching up on my schoolwork. I am almost half done with these classes, and I can't wait to be completeley finished! I have decided to go into the surgical tech program at Lonestar, so I have to take Pharm. for Surgical Techs and ANP next semester. Unless I decide to take a break... I don't know yet.

Tomorrow should be GREAT!

Tomorrow, Annabelle and I will be making cookies! White Chocolate Chip cookies! We are taking them to one of Phil's injured coworkers. Then THEN we are supposed to go to IKEA! WhoooHooo! We are getting rid of some dishes and using an old set that is clear glass. BUT we don't have any bowls in our set. But Ikea has some clear glass bowls for 99 cents each. So we can actually afford some!

I got a new set of knives yesterday, they are wonderful. The knives led to the switch out of and getting rid of the old dinner sets.

On another note, I worked on my song for the kids today. We made headway. The biggest issue is learning to sing with the track. Pitch isn't really the problem, hitting all the notes on the notes in the track is. It is proving difficult. But I will get it! I have until Wednesday to get it, think I can do it?

:)

I love my mother in law, she thinks I'm organized! She's super! Love you Gail!

Feeling good today

I got in my workout today! I worked through the kids nap and did all my math homework and most of tomorrows. I was really excited to get to workout, it is really hard right now to find the time. But I have decided to try as hard as I can to make the time to do it.
I am going to start working on my song for kids worship and choir, tomorrow. I don't have to sing until next Wednesday, but I think I need to go ahead and start working on it now, since I can't practice everyday. I also need to get busy with my vocal lessons.. and guitar lessons. Need Phil to commit to at least one day a week to help me.

I need to sit down and make a comprehensive list of my goals and aspirations. I have been told it is easier to meet your goals if you list them out in a reasonable, realistic manner. I think I need to. I have so many things going on in my life, and so many things that I want/need to do. So, I may work on that tomorrow as well.

Anyway, it appears that something foul is descending on my house. Gwen didn't feel good today, and William hasn't seemed to be feeling well for the last couple of days. And they were all in bed by 5:00 today. And not a peep after. So, I hope that Gwen and William feel better tomorrow. Keep them in your prayers, please. There was no school today. We watched a movie and some cartoons, and that was about it. Gwen spent most of the day in bed and William was in my lap most of the time. Annabelle seems to be feeling just fine. She made get well cards for Gwen today. She's such a sweet little girl. They are all very full of love.

Needs a break.. fo sho

It's bee so crazy around here. Running around, school work, choir, church, kids, house work... it just seems to keep piling up. I can't seem to find time to do much of my house work, trying to squeeze in my schoolwork during the kids nap and at bedtime, then trying to get the kids to color or play quiet while I do vocal practice and choir and worship practice... then we have church three days a week, and ballet on Fridays. I really feel stressed and need a break. I don't know what to do.

I didn't do as well on my Psych test as I wanted, and I'm hoping that I did a decent job on my math test today. I'm doing the best that I can, but I feel like I just can't keep up. To all you Momma's who do all this AND have a job, you have my applause! I can barely keep up staying home!

I am praying that God is using all of this to do something great in my life. Or even something moderate. I hope that He shows me what it is, or gives me a hint. I feel like I've done what He wanted me to, with starting to lead kids worship at church and joining the choir and all, but it seems like ever since then things have just gotten more and more chaotic. But, I will keep doing what I feel He wants me to. Cause that's what I have to do. :) Just say a little prayer for me, ok?

This week...

This week is going to be looong. I have a math exam at the end of the week, so I will be spending LOTS of time studying, because I am not really that good at math. Hopefully I will do well enough and make a good grade. Pray about that would ya? I still have psych work this week, but just reading. So that makes life a little easier. I also will be leading kids worship on Wednesday and will be working on all of that this week, and one song for Sunday morning worship. Then you add choir in and the kids, it really is a lot to deal with. May not sound like it, but it is. So, keep us in prayer please. Thanks my friends!

How is YOUR week shaping up? Leave me a comment and let me know!
Hopefully I'll be able to post more for you later!

Did you know?

Did you know that God loves you? Did you know that He who created EVERYTHING loves YOU the most? YOU are His greatest most treasured creation? The God who made everything and could have anything, wants YOU? Just like you are? It's true.

Did you know that even though God has power over all things, He won't force you to love Him back? He will call to you, love you, even if you won't love Him back? God will never force Himself on you, that wouldn't be love. God has given us all the choice to love Him, but no matter what we chose, He loves us. Always. Forever. No matter what.

Can you imagine what kind of power it takes to speak the universe into being? Now can you imagine that God wouldn't use that same power to force us to bow down and worship Him? Can you imagine that He who has always been and always will be, stands at the door of your heart and knocks, but would never break down the door and force his way in? But, why? Why does God not just make us love Him? Because forced love isn't true love. Only love given freely can be called true love.

Jesus loved us sooo much that he left his rightful place in Heaven and came down to live as a man, with us, GOD with US. He suffered and died and was separated from his Father, for us, for YOU! Jesus defeated death, hell and the grave, for YOU! And he won't force us to love him back. Can you imagine?

But He wants you to love him. He wants you to trust him. He desperately desires you to come to him and let him into your heart. Jesus calls to us, gently, romancing us to come to him, to let him in and to love him. The creator of the universe wants nothing more than for us to love him and obey him. And when we do, there is the great reward not only of Heaven someday, but of knowing that the Master of the Universe is with you, loving you, holding you, seeing you through every tough time you will ever face, and making it all work for the good of you, the one much loved by God.

YOU are MUCH loved by God.

missing

I am missing playing my guitar. So what if I'm not that good at it, I miss it. I has this ability to make me feel better. But right now I just can't find the time. I spend most free time I have now doing homework and after the kids go to bed there is more of it. Plus it wakes the boy up. What's a girl to do? I really could use some time with it... maybe tomorrow?

Guess what?

I led Children's Worship last night! It was pretty intimidating, but fun too. They were a tough crowd, and they had never seen me before, but I hope that they still enjoyed it. Now they want me keep doing Wednesdays as well as Sunday. We'll see, as long as I can get some time in church, I think I'll be okay. Thinking of taking the last week of the month off so I can go to church and rest.
I also had my vocal team audition last night. I didn't make the team, but we will reevaluate in three months or so. However I was told that I have a nice voice and good pitch, so I'm going to just be happy with that. I need to work on not being so darn scared when I have to sing around people, so my choir director told me to try some vocal tracks and to audition for everything in choir. So that's what I will try to do. Hopefully doing the kids worship will help. Maybe they will let me sing there....

SO, all in all last night was emotionally tough, and I think is the cause of my glorious migraine today, but it was really good and totally worth it. Now, hopefully God will bring me that chances to sing and be bold that I need to reach the goal that He has given to me.

Overwhelmed?

Yes, yes I am. There is soooo much going on right now. I don't understand why events can't be spaced out over time instead of all just falling on top of each other at one time. I am taking two classes online, homeschooling the kids, learning about leading childrens worship, choir, vocal team audition, guitar lessons,taking Gwen to ballet once a week, three nights at church, helping Gwen learn her lines for the play, and now we are looking at joining a group at church with others looking to start a new church. Just reading it is overwhelming.. I need a nap. Honestly none of it it truly hard, ok, the math class is, but really, nothing else is truly hard. It's just soooo much. Especially when you factor in house work and the rest of life that gets tossed in. It's all good stuff too. I just wonder why it's all happening now. Hopefully we will find out, but I guess I'll just be busy until then.

We picked up our summer supplement books yesterday! Each girl got a new summer workbook to help them get ready to move up a grade. Annabelle is going to restart her lessons now that I KNOW she knows her letters. So no more excuses from Doodlebug! We got William some dinosaurs to put up on the walls. He loves them, especially the T-Rex. He just calls them all "dinosaur" even when you tell him the real names. Oh well, I'm sure that soon he'll learn to say Triceratops. Right?

Randomness

Today has been very stressful. My son is clingy and screamy and randomly cries. I feel like I am going out of my mind. But hopefully they will all be going to bed relatively soon, then it will end. I have a little homework to do, but then I am going to relax.

I lost a friend today. It wasn't an easy decision for me, I don't tend to stop being friends with other people. But some of their attitudes were becoming to much for me to deal with in a polite manner. I can't stand when people go from living in freedom to bound by legalism. It is truly tragic. But when you start condemning people who don't live in the legalism that you do, that is really over the line. Especially when it is over, what I like to call, the details of Christianity. Such as Christmas. I know that no body truly knows when Jesus was born, but I think it's wrong to tell people that they are paganistic for celebrating the birth of Jesus on December 25. Yes that day happens to line up with a random pagan holiday, but the way I feel is that I am celebrating Jesus birth not whatever the other thing happens to be. As long as I am making it about Jesus, I can't see as the overlap of day's matters. Now, if you want to celebrate Channuka, that's up to you. Personally I have nothing against it. Just don't sit there and judge those of us who chose to celebrate Jesus birth on December 25. If you really want to celebrate His birthday, then do it in August, that's the speculated month of His birth. Either way, just make it about Him and not rules.

Ok, vent over. :) Thanks for bearing with me! On a good happy note, Annabelle wrote ALL of her letters today! She makes such a big deal over just reading them to me that I was truly shocked that she just sat down and wrote them with very little help. They are hanging on my refrigerator door. I'm so proud.

soooo tired...

Today has been so very busy. I got up, took care of the kids food and such, then did the dishes, vacuumed my living room, dining room, and most of the back half of the house. Did several loads of wash, folded more, sent the kids outside to play, then did some schoolwork. Then I fed the kids lunch and put the little ones to bed, got Gwen doing HER schoolwork, then did my psychology homework and spent the rest of the nap hour doing math homework. Some where in there I did guitar practice, cleaned my kitchen, played with the kiddos, made dinner, got them all ready for bed, did more math practice..... Now it's time to take a break.
Tomorrow promises to be just as busy, we are driving up to Liberty to hopefully sell off the truck, have to find time to do my psych and math work, go to church, choir and Gwen's rehearsal. sssiiiggghhhhh I will tell you I tip my hat to you mommies who work, go to school and take care of yo baybays. :) I still have to find time to practice my audition music, learn all the material for kids worship, make cookies, and have a date with my hubby.... I think I need a few more hours and another me.

Busy Day

We spent allll day at church today. I had Crew Camp training, then Gwen had her call back. Luck for me, there was left over pizza from CC so I didn't have to make dinner. Tomorrow I will be meeting with Kari again for more training since I had all my babies with me a missed a lot today. But it will be good. I'm looking forward to the chance to lead worship. Once I get over the nervousness of it all. Hopefully that won't take to long. So, say a prayer for me, that I can learn all this material and not be scared to dance in front of the kids!

A little update for you

I know I haven't posted in a while, sorry. But there has been lots going on, but nothing really blog worthy. We have been getting Gwen ready for her audition for our church's children's play, and she has a call back on Sunday. I am going to be attending training for children's worship the same day, and I have set up an audition for the vocal team. I also started my classes for the semester. So there's a lot bouncing around. I will try to keep you all updated. But, today I am going out to lunch with my best friend. It's gonna be great! See you all later!

A letter

Dear Satan,

I am writing to less than cordially ask, or tell which ever you prefer, you to back off. While your efforts have been notable, they will not be effective. You can try whatever you like, but my family and I will not yield or be broken. We are not afraid of you or your tricks. You see, every time you knock us down in an attempt to keep us there, it is really a chance for us to be picked up and carried in the arms of God. No matter what you try, God will be there to protect us and keep us safe. Our souls have been spoken for, so there really is nothing here for you.

I know that you have been busy poking into our lives here recently. You even tried to get your hands on my babies, don't think I didn't notice. But you forget that our family is under the hand of God and covered in prayer by others. Now you are messing with my husband, and I'm not going to let you get away with it. In the power given me by the blood of Jesus, I COMMAND you to leave Phil alone. You have no power over him or his job.

Now, I know that you feel threatened because we have been doing the things that we truly feel called to do in the name of God. And you should be. But trying to break us down really isn't going to work. You see even if we feel discouraged or down, we know that God will come and help us through. He will give us the strength and courage needed to fulfill His will. So, go sit on a tack.

The One Who is Much Loved by God,



Leslie Nott


P.S- You should back off my friends as well....

Decisions!

Some decisions have been made today! I have decided on my classes for next semester, and what program I'll be taking next year. I am going to take the Sterile Tech program to get a decent paying job, going to Radiology Tech after that. Yay!

I also sent an email about joining the children's worship team at our church tonight. They are supposedly looking for someone for the young kids and older. So lets see how all that turns out. :) I am really looking forward to how things are going to turn out.

The only issue is going to be finding someone to babysit our kids. The Sterile Tech class has to be taken all at once, so I actually have to go on campus for classes during the day. No online classes here. But I'm going to start looking around for one and hopefully something will work out.

Improvements

Somethings around here are improving. The kids and adults are all feeling better, no runny noses or coughing.We sorted out about half of our kitchen today, lots of free room in the cabinets now! AND I have finally moved from an 8 to a 9 on my singing practice! YAY me!

Seems silly the things that I think are improvements, but such is my life.

Gwen is finally catching up on a few days worth of schoolwork. She has fallen a bit behind since we have been busy around here the last few days. But there are no errands today and no where to go until church. So she has all day to catch up. It's quiet with her working and the others napping. Weird.

I have been waiting for what seems like forever for choir to begin again, but I don't think that anyone knows when we will practice again. I am really waiting for a chance to try to join the worship team, but don't know anything about that either. This is why Phil telling me my practice is getting better makes me so happy. So I guess until I get the chance to try out, I'll just keep practicing.

I finally got my books, so now I can finally look through all the stuff I will be studying in the next few days. It all seems familiar, so we'll see how I do. I have to take intro to Algebra, which is basically remedial math. Yay. But when I scanned my book last night a lot seems familiar, and if all else fails, I have a calculator. My psychology books looks really familiar as well, since I took college psych in high school, I'm not to worried, unless I have to write a paper. Then I'll be nervous. Maybe I could get a hold of my old psych teacher.... :) The good news is that even if I change from Nursing to Radiology Tech, I will still need most of the same pre-reg. classes. I have been thinking about it because RT makes about the same money, and spends only about two years in school. So, I'm really struggling with that right now.

Nothing really important...

The weekend has been pretty busy. We had a meeting for community group leaders Saturday morning before Gwens party. Phil and I are wanting to start a community group for homeschooling families. So we sat in on the leaders meeting/info session. Then we looked into a class I can take at church for college credit. SO, then we stopped at McD's and fed the kids with the gift cards we won at the meeting. We put the kids down and cleaned the house, or started to. About half an hour before the party a pipe in our backyard burst. Yay, the ONE that we never even thought about wrapping. So, Phil had to run to the hardware store and fix it so we would have water for the party. But other than that, the party went really well. Gwen had lots of fun and got lots of wonderful gifts.

Next week, we have to go buy textbooks, yay. Not really looking forward to this semester. But hopefully I'll make it and do well. We'll see.

Today was slow and dull, a typical Sunday. We went to church, then came home and attempted to nap, but William decided that no body really needed a nap. So, we decided to start working on potty training. We are starting with getting used to sitting on the potty and wearing big boy underwear. Not expecting much yet, but we like to start slow. So, keep watching for potty training updates!

Bedtime Prayer

The girls both say a little prayer before they go to bed. Gwen generally likes to say the Lords Prayer and Annabelle like to thank God for socks. It's true. Tonight was a little different. It was Annabelle's turn to go first, so she begins with thank you for the things you gave us, and especially for the things you didn't give us. Hmmm does she know something I don't about the things that God hasn't given us? Does she have a direct line with God, cause if so, I need her to take a message. Then she says, "Thank you Lord for your son-in-law, Jesus." Yep. That's what she said. I couldn't keep it together, I laughed. It was hilarious. If you know Annabelle you know that she is very matter of fact, and I don't think at that moment I could have convinced her that Jesus was God's son, not son-in-law. Then at the end she says, "But most of all, thank you for the kids that mommy had, after she was married." Amen. :)
THEN, it's finally Gwen's turn to pray. She starts off her Lords Prayer, and half way into it, Annabelle looks at her and says, " Gwen, don't do that. Pray for something particular." Wow. Annabelle won't be attending prayer meetings anytime soon...

Awesome Day

Phil actually had a few hours off work today, sooo we all packed up and went to Chuckey Cheeses to play games in celebration of Gwen's birthday. It was lots of fun. Gwen got to play lots of games by herself and Phil and I traded off with the little two. You would be amazed how many race car games a four year old girl likes to play. Skee ball was a riot too, Annabelle threw the skee balls overhanded. Awesome loud noise when they slam into the alley. After two fun filled hours of game play, we came home, put the boy to bed, fed the girls and put them to bed for naps. AHHHH quiet time.

After they all went to bed for the night, I had a date with James Bond in Casino Royale. My current favorite movie. Petitioning Phil for Quantom of Solace for my birthday.. we will see!

Anyway, I think that I can say it was a great day. Gwen even got most of her homework done after all the festivities!

Funny Day Today

Well, the day started fairly normal. Kids got up mouths first. Had some breakfast and I even let them watch a movie. Then my doorbell rings. This is odd, we hardly ever have unexpected visitors, you know, never. So, I open the door and there is this realtor standing there. Now we took our house off the market last week, and there is no sign in our yard. She looks at me like I am crazy and asks if they- the Realtors service- had called to tell me that they were coming. Well I guess my flannel pj's were so glamorous that she could easily make the mistake. But no sign in the yard? I said no, we took the house off the market. Oops. She was embarrassed. She tells me that the service didn't tell her that the house was no longer for sale. Hopefully this is remedied. But then, know what she does? Gives me her card. I can't imagine why. In case I change my mind and decide to re list a week after removing the house? Is the housing market about to jump up and she is trying to give me a hint? I have no idea, so as soon as I shut the door, I gave the card to the boy who was content to destroy it.

A couple of other funny things happened. My son decided that it was much fun to push Gwen over and sit on her. Gwen thought it was funny too, because she kept letting him do it. But hey, they weren't arguing, so I let it go. They also proceeded to dance like little punk babies when their favorite song from The Electric Company came on. Hilarious to watch. Trust me. Then at dinner, which was mac and cheese in honor of Gwens' birthday, Annabelle looks at me and tells me that the mac n cheese is beautiful. I almost choked I laughed so hard. I've never felt so appreciated. My mac n cheese is prettier that yours!!

ME!

1. Do you like bleu cheese? Never tried it
2. Have you ever smoked? No.
.3. Do you own a gun? No not one of my own. We have one that I know how to use, although I learned to shoot pretty young, but since hubby is a police man we have a few..
4. What color Kool Aid was your favorite. Black Cherry
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Only OB. Y'all know...
6. What do you think of hot dogs? I know what they are made of. I also know that they are fantastic with chili and cheese
7. Favorite Christmas movie? I don't really have one... I know...
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Uhh.. coffee...
9. Can you do push ups? Heck yeah! Thanks Tony!
10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? whatever I happen to be wearing.. my butterfly necklace from my kids
11. Favorite hobby? Yelling at the kids? Reading or knitting
12. Do you have A. D. D.? No. I can pretty well focus on whatever I need to. My problem is getting to something to focus on.. give me a book and I can ignore ANYTHING
14. Middle name? Ann
15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. my middle name is really boring, do I really have ADD? WHY hasn't Phil called me back?
16. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink? Coffee, water, coffee..
17. Current worry? How to make money so we don't owe $700 every month
18. Current hate? ... Don't really have one...
19. Where would you like to go? Some place where shopping is free
22. Name three people who will complete this: Probably no one but it's all good. They need to know this about me
23. Do you own slippers? Yes wearing them now, they are purple
24. What color shirt are you wearing? Pink :)
25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Yes, but I have fallen off the bed because of them...
26. Can you whistle? Duh, how do you call your kids?
27. Where are you now? Living room
28. Would you be a pirate? Only if Captain Jack was around
29. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing in the shower.. everywhere else, just not there
30. Favorite Girl's Name? Brigitta. Hands down most awesome name EVER
31. Favorite boy's name? Enoch. That's what I'll name another boy if I ever have one.
32. What's in your pocket right now? lint
33. Who last made you laugh? Probably William running into something. I know what your thinking, but when you have an almost two year old boy, you'll get it
34. What vehicle do you drive? White, Ford F250, long bed, vinyl floors, it's the bomb, and for sell
35. Worst injury you've ever had? Never had a serious injury...
36. Do you love where you live? Pleading the 5th
37. How many TVs do you have in your house? one, but technically it's not a TV, it's a projector, does that count????

You should also know
My favorite movie~ Casino Royale, I loove James Bond, but mostly Daniel Craig
Favorite color~ Pink
I don't like scary movies and HATE scary movies that involve paranormal aka demonic activity
I LOVE to sing, want to be a worship leader
I hate getting up early, but working on it....

I talk a lot...