The Strength of my Heart

Saddle Sore

2012-01-24T18:31:00.001-08:00

As a kid, I had a ton of different bikes. My brothers and I were so tough on them. I have so many wonderful stories of making ramps, jumps, crashes, and so much more. On one particular crash, I had to walk home with my bike because I had literally bent the handle bars into a non-maneuverable position. Craziness. It is amazing how I no longer remember the pain from the numerous accidents.

My bike riding of prior to my tri training was a lazy ride here and there with the kids. It wasn’t always an easy ride to keep up with them, and many times was more of a workout then I expected.

Well, my tri training has brought bike riding to a new level. My bike has this wonderful granny seat with these wonderful gel cushions. One big problem, my bike is really heavy. I quickly learned what a road bike was, and amazingly, I was able to buy a really nice one super cheap from a family who is fully of cyclist and triathletes. It doesn’t come with a granny seat and gel cushions. It isn’t called a seat. It is called a saddle. After my first 45 minute ride on it, I quickly realized why it was called so. It, the saddle, alters the way one will sit, stand, and walk for numerous days. No fears, many cyclist I know have been so kind to inform me that it will take about a year for me to not remember the saddle. OH YAY!

My new motto continues: Pain is weakness leaving the body. I have lots of weakness!

Lessons from Ignorance

2012-01-19T05:46:00.001-08:00

My daughter and I were recently labeled. The labeling was done in a joking fashion. The problem was that the person had waxed so eloquently and vehemently on those that this label included that the joke was really on them. It really made me think about me. My hubby is so great at being objective. He is much slower then I am to throw all my chips into one way of thinking. I am trying to learn from this gift.

How many times have I generalized comments and waxed eloquently on my opinion as a group as a whole? Wow, it is quite humbling. For the past year, I have really prayerfully sought to be a meeker person. I find that there is so much harshness in Christianity. I am Baptist in denomination, and I know the reputation for beating up your own. Before I would ever call myself a Baptist, I would claim to be a Biblicist. YES, THERE IS A VERY BIG DIFFERENCE. We tend to lump people into groups and then rank them accordingly. It is extremely unBiblical. This practice isn’t just limited to Baptist. I know people who won’t talk to me anymore because they saw me wear an outfit they didn’t approve of or read a facebook status that mentioned some taboo. I do not want to be one of those people. I don’t care what music you listen to, if you wear pants, whether you swim in a public pool (that would be mixed bathing), or much more, but what I do care about is that you know my Jesus, and if you do, that you are constantly growing in Him.

I say all that because it seems that my recent labeling by my “Christian” friends comes from my conservative views. Seriously!!! I mean really, you are going to harshly condemn me for the music I listen to when it is only Christian, but you listen to whatever you want. I am some how the stumbling block. I never criticized, never hinted for change, but somehow I am an offence?! This is just one random example. We are all different. I am finding that if I am different in a more conservative way it is less accepted then if it was in a looser way. I don’t understand it. I have been labeled a traditionalist. You know, I am just blindly following what they did years ago. Really? You know that how? Oh…that’s right, it was just assumed. I have been called ignorant because I believe that every area of my life ought to be rooted and grounded in the Word of God. Is a claim to take the Word of God more lightly in life something to really be proud of? Wow! It is in those moments I am learning to guard my response. I get the, “Well, we would have invited you but you would have probably been offended!” comments. How big and mature is that statement. Might I add, it is so totally the opposite of how Christ expects us to act.

So, yesterday when my twelve year old daughter asked me why we had been called such a label. My explanation came from Acts. In Chapters 13 and 14, Paul and Baranabas were teaching in the synagogues, and they were having amazing results. People were searching the Scriptures and coming to a saving knowledge of Christ. The unbelieving Jews stirred up the emotions of the Gentiles against them over and over. The unbelieving Jews acted in ignorance. Paul and Barnabas had to escape for their lives. Unfortunately people who decide to be ignorant about belief and why someone might believe that way, only spread more ignorance. It was great lesson to share with my daughter on why we accept people for who they are and to remember that it is God’s job to change each of our hearts and lives on an individual basis and relationship with Him.

Think before you speak. The person who is standing before you might have a reason or a thought you haven’t had. It might change your perspective on a few things.

Swim Days

2012-01-18T09:28:00.001-08:00

Oh, I dread swim days, and I love them at the same time. The most inspiring thing about my swim days is my kids. With my hubby off to training at his new post at Young, the kids have no choice but to join me in my triathlon training. The girls are most excited about swim days. They love to swim. I dreaded them joining me not from a nuisance or problem aspect but simply because they swim soooo much better then I do.

My oldest daughter, Abby, has taken swimming by the storm. She wants to compete at the highest level she can achieve, and thus, she pushes herself as hard as she can. Today, she gloated. Abby joined me at the gym for a few weeks. I used the term “weanie” when she complained about lifting some weights. Today, she got payback. As she swam her 100 yards in the time it took me to swim my 50 yards, she looked at me and said, “You weanie!” I asked her about my stroke, and she willingly gave me a few pointers. I began to try to practice them. As I was approaching the wall on one of my fifties, I was shocked to see Abby five feet below me giving me a thumb’s up. I almost drowned because it isn't wise to laugh while your face is planted in water. It did feel good to make my daughter proud. I especially loved it when she swam a fifty with me side by side at my pace. What an unexpected encourager!

Rebekah and Sarah are equally motivating. Sarah today helped me work on my stamina as she decided to grab my ankle half way down the lane. I literally drug her for the rest of my lap. What great preparation. Of course the highlight of my day was when Sarah chose to race me! I actually won. OK, so I have three extra feet and longer arms. It is the little victories!

A New Chapter in the Midst of a New Journey!

2012-01-17T06:53:00.001-08:00

Why does it seem that as soon as I begin to find my routine, that it seems the rug gets pulled out from under me? Phew! I am so glad this is a new year. We left 2011 in the dust with all of its twists and turns and major life changes. Seriously, I went from secretary and teacher to a stay at home mom (which I love) and homeschooling family! Wait, the best part was that my hubby was also able to work from home. Sure there were a trips to the office, but on the whole our life truly revolved around each other and our kids. I don’t think I even saw my hubby as much when we dated as I have the past few months. That equals up to me being severely spoiled.

Unfortunately, our finances didn’t agree to this change of pace. We knew that it would be tight, but it just isn’t currently possible. Our church does an awesome job of supporting us, but with our family needs growing and no ability for an adjusted income, we began praying about alternatives. My dear hubs loves to drive. He loves to go anywhere and explore and see and learn new places. His dream job (if he ever needed something other than preaching) was a tour bus. Seriously, we had a friend that got a part time job doing this several years ago, and I think my hubby was jealous. After some serious prayer, Dan began looking. He interviewed at a tour company near our home. After a great interview, we heard nothing. He researched companies within an hour of home, and he chose to contact Young Transportation in Ashville, NC. We began to pray, and the Lord began to open doors. Dan interviewed for the first time in November, just after Thanksgiving. He was told he was the 29th interview out of 67. Wow! His interview went great, and he was asked to come back for a second. Now, he is in training. It is amazing to see God work, but my oh my, I am struggling with this whole schedule change thing. I told you I was spoiled, but I am so used to having my hubby home. I am in the midst of revamping all the schedule adjustments that I have to do alone. Wow, what a difference it makes.

We are all excited about Dan’s new opportunities, and we can’t wait to hear about all his new adventures. Oh, how I dread the change of pace.

Pain is weakness leaving the body…

2012-01-12T08:26:00.001-08:00

This phrase has been circulating through many areas of my recent travel. I have seen it on billboards for military recruiters, signs in front of gyms, and tshirts. This week, I am truly beginning to feel as though I am living that statement.

My 13 week training calendar for my triathlon begin this Monday. Oh my! Our training coach said that this would be a hate him week, but I thought that I would really not be that bad since I do hit the gym hard five days of the week. Adding some swimming and jogs to my norm has really put me in some pain. I am relieved to be at Thursday. I truly do understand that I am weak! I guess that means there is much more pain to be had! Oh joy!

In preparation for my triathlon, I had to get myself my very own swim cap. I was so pleased at the many designs. I decided that if I had to endure pain, I might as well have something to laugh at to encourage me. I found this awesomely cute cap, and I am sure it has been that motivating factor as I try not to choke to death as I glide through the water….

My Journey: Part 3

2012-01-06T04:00:00.000-08:00

While I am not happy with where I am in my weight loss, my husband seems to be of the opinion that I am having great success. I guess I just know where I want to be, and I want it to come more quickly then it is.

I am so happy to report that I have lost over six inches around on my waist. It is amazing really for me to comprehend. I remember measuring a jumper that was becoming rather tight around the middle and being amazed at the length. Ok, shocked would really be the better word. Now, I wear it with ease. I am even hopefully going to find some new slimmer looks at Goodwill. My husband has informed me that my shirts are just a little too baggy. It was a true revelation for me. As I began to pay attention, I realized the shoulder seam on a few was quite low. Some of my short sleeves were more three quarter sleeves. It is odd too that my pants seemed to be getting a little longer as well. I didn’t realize this fact until I was walking through the kitchen, and well, after the thud, everyone wanted to know what happened. I slipped on my pants leg! OOOPS!

It’s is New Year’s! Everyone seems to be so excited about losing weight and becoming physically fit. UGH! I don’t say that because I don’t want to be fit myself or deprive others of that gift, but people at my gym are coming out of the woodwork literally!

Ok, I love meeting new people. I love the little support group that we regulars have together. We know when to encourage the other when it is just one of those tough days. We have all bonded. I literally felt as though I needed a badge as some new coming male counterparts joined the gym this week. We all have our routines. Those of us that work out together could tell you what the next step each of us are going to take. This new guy the other day just seemed to flitter back and forth and no one could predict where he would land next. We all were in our work out mode. I was on the lat pulldowns. I was half way through my first set when I felt that feeling you get when someone is watching you. Someone was. This guy was standing just off to the left of me, and it was clear he expected me to get off my machine for him! I was like what… So much so that when I stood to set the weights down in between sets, he acted as though he was going to sit on top of me. I hate that feeling. I just went to the weight rack and finished there. One of my gym friends came over and patter me on the back. She said,”Don’t worry, they all disappear by February!” I told her we all needed a badge that read, “This is not my New Year’s Resolution. This isn’t my first week, and all the front desk workers can vouch for that!” Apparently, my badge suggestion has been discussed throughout the regulars. They have all enjoyed the laugh provided.

While the others will come and go, it takes dedication and recognition that it will be a long journey. It is so true what they say about it taking time. I didn’t gain it all at one meal. For me, my journey is a life style change. It is a process of reprogramming old habits with new ones. It isn’t easy when my hubby can eat what he wants, when he wants, and how much he wants, and it seems to not affect him. All of our lifestyles have been affected for the positive! It is amazing the choices we make because that is what we have been programmed, but when we discover how that choice affects us or what it involves, we are eager for a change.

Now, I just have to stay motivated for the other half of my goal!

Am I crazy?

2012-01-04T04:00:00.000-08:00

It seems that some think I have lost my mind! Maybe I have, but I am truly thankful for the support of my dear hubby. He doesn’t completely understand, but he does to an extent, but regardless he will do his best to cheer me on every step of the way of this new chapter in my journey.
You see, I have been working very hard to get this totally out of shape body of mine into shape. In six months I have lost over 35 pounds, and I feel so much better. I am half way to my weight goal, but I find myself very very dissatisfied. I know, I know, nothing comes easy, and I really don’t mind the work. I really kind of enjoy being a gym rat. Thus, my new chapter!
Every year our town sponsors a triathlon, and in its hope to inspire all the locals to get fit and join the gym/aquatics center, they offer a try a tri program. I have seen it advertised since early November. My gym buddies and life guard friends have all been encouraging it. It is supposed to be about fitness more than competition, they say! So, I have thought long and hard, and I have thought even harder and longer. I talked to my dear hubby, and I am now officially registered for the program and the triathlon.

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At signup, we got this really cool workout calendar for the next fifteen weeks leading up to the tri. It is quite overwhelming the volume of information. It is a three tier workout program. Since the tri is geared at beginners as well as though continuing to stay in shape, there is a workout for beginners, intermediate, and advanced. So, for now I am a beginning in the swimming part, but Woo Hoo for being intermediate for all the others, and a few I feel I can handle the advanced.
My hope is that this will really give me the boost I need in my training to carve off some more inches and lose some more weight. I cannot complain since I am continuously losing, and I am still living on eating good food. It has been a fun journey, and I cannot wait to see where it will lead!

Entering Double Digits!

2012-01-03T06:59:00.001-08:00

It is amazing to me to think that my little Rebekah just turned ten! I do not know where the time went. She was so graceful to enter the world on New Year’s Eve. Ok, Ok, so there wasn’t much that was graceful about her arrival. It is amazing to me my memory of the births of my children, but when Rebekah came, I just wanted to go back in time to do it all over again. It was by far one of the first real trials Dan and I had to meet head on as parents.

Rebekah was not due until mid January. We all expected her to arrive a little early since Abby did. My midwife had us come in on New Year’s Eve just to check me before the holiday began. I think she knew after my before Christmas checkup that it would be soon. She later told me she was surprised I made it through Christmas. We got there in the morning, and she was pleased to inform us that I was in the beginning stages of labor. She sent us out to walk some to help speed things up, and we all met for lunch before she checked my status again. Around four that afternoon, we all left to meet at the hospital in Hendersonville. I remember checking in and the lady asking questions as waves of contractions were hitting. She was quite comical since I had to answer and Dan couldn’t answer for me. I think she said, “I’m sorry,” a hundred times.

Once we got to the room my midwife broke my water and then the fun began. Rebekah’s labor was so different than with Abby’s. It was so much faster. I felt so much more in my back then I remembered with Abby. Come to find out, Rebekah was coming face down. I think there is an official medical term for that, but she literally had rubbed her tiny little face down my spine throughout labor. While we didn’t seem to get a picture of it, she was literally bruised on both sides of her face from her forehead down through her cheeks. Poor thing!! I didn’t know that it was difficult on her to come that way, but apparently it is. At 8:37 pm our precious Rebekah Grace was born.

Dan was so eager and proud to cut the cord and begin the bathing process. Both sets of our parents were there, and Abby got to come in just after the birth to see all the excitement. She was such a proud big sister. Here are a few photos from way back!

Shortly after we got to the room, we began to notice that her lips were a little hue of blue. So being the great parents we were, we added another blanket and kept watch. The nurse came in to check my vitals, and Dan asked her. I guess we never thought to look at her hands, feet, and gums cause if we had we would have noticed those were turning shades of blue too! The nurse asked Dan if she could borrow her for a minute to have the doctor look at her. A minute turned into two, two turned into ten, and ten turned into an hour. My midwife finally came and got us. Bek had been placed under an oxygen tent, and an xray showed a tiny spot in her lungs. I was trying to be brave, but I didn’t know what any of this meant.

My midwife explained that the way Rebekah came out was really hard on her. At some point in the birth canal, she became a little distressed causing her to open her mouth. This resulted in her swallowing something during birth. Whatever it was, instead of entering the esophagus it instead went down her windpipe. This was causing her body to respond as it would in a case of pneumonia. The pediatric doctor had been paged and would be there soon. My midwife brought me a rocking chair and told me I could stay with her.

I felt relief to know a doctor was coming to deal specifically with my daughter until she arrived. She was new to the job, and she was not pleased that I was allowed to be there. She recommended that I go back to my room. I kindly informed her that I been told I could stay and did not plan to leave. This was my kid and I planned to stay with her for as long as I could. She read the xrays, and she decided that she needed antibiotics and nicu treatment. A neonatal team from Mission in Asheville was called and was en route. In order to administer the antibiotics needed Rebekah had to have an IV. I watched her try four times, and I cried as she couldn’t manage to get the IV needle in place. I was then told I had to return to my room. I could give her a kiss goodbye was her act of kindness. Dan had been there with me, and he helped me back to my room. He went back and watched from the window. I was so shocked to see him return soon with a smile. The neonatal team brought Rebekah in to see me. It was so special. Here was my little baby in a this little incubator hooked up to an IV and oxygen being pumped in to the incubator, and all of this was on this huge stretcher. They brought her to my bedside and opened the cubicle windows. He patted me on the arm and said, “ Take as long as you need ma’am. She is in the best hands possible, and I promise to take great care of her.” I was so touched, and I will forever remember those moments.

Rebekah was diagnosed the next morning with tachypnea. It is common in infants, and she probably would have been fine to stay where we were, but since she had been administered antibiotics to be treated for a chemical pneumonia, she had to stay at the NICU for the duration of treatment. She was hooked up to every monitor known to mankind. Her IV changed locations daily. It went from her two hands, to her two feet, and finally finished in her head. We saw God meet our needs for lodging, food, and so much more. We learned a lot during our stay, and we were so thankful for their constant care. The doctors were so amazing in their time and explanations. They all did an awesome job! Here are some pictures of our adventure.

I did get tickled at her name tag. It read, “Qurollo, B.G”. We mentioned to a nurse that her initials were actually R. G. for Rebekah not Bekah… The nurse laughed when she told us it was B.G. for Baby Girl because only her last name and mother’s info came in with her. The hospital in Hendersonville hadn’t even had time to put her in the system. One of the nurses made her a little sign so they could call her something other than Baby Girl.

What a Christmas!!!

2011-12-29T11:47:00.001-08:00

My apologies for being so absent from the blogging world for a few days, but my oh my was it busy! It hasn't helped that my hubby is doing much of his studying from home these days so he uses the computer much more than I. Regardless, I just have to share our Christmas blessings!!!!

Dan and I were literally dreading this Christmas due to our financial situation. We simply did not know how we were going to do anything. We both made it a matter of prayer. We always seek to be cautious to be sure the kids understand what Christmas was truly about. We were very honest with them for months that they should not expect much materialistically. The kids handled it all so well, and it was been such a lesson for us all in how commercialized our ideas can be.

We set up the tree, and we did all of our normal holiday traditions. They are all so much fun.

As December 1st came about, we began to see God do some amazing things in our family! It really started before that with Abby, our oldest daughter. She so wanted a pair of boots for her birthday. She knew that our cash flow was low, and she wanted to use as much of her money as possible. She was so excited to be just over $50 short. She didn't want us to just assume the remainder. She began to pray. In two days time, she received $45 more for her boots. What a great lesson in faith for her and all of us!

The first Sunday of December, Dan was greeting folks as they were leaving church. A couple in our church handed him some cash for our family to have for Christmas. Another couple came through and gave him a card. This happened every Sunday throughout December! We were able to pay some looming bills and buy presents for our kids all without spending any of our money!

Our fear was an empty Christmas tree. Instead we got some excellent deals, and our kids were so blessed.

It was amazing! What a true lesson that God will always provide. It was an incredible lesson in giving for our kids to see. I remember one of my kids asking, "That person really wanted to give us that much money and be happy about it!" It was truly what Christmas is all about!

Here are a few pictures of the kids favorite expressions while opening their gifts!

Cast Free!

2011-12-08T07:06:00.001-08:00

On Tuesday, we all got a taste of freedom. Of course for Sarah it was the most rewarding. For the past four weeks, she has been so limited in her activities, but she has made lemonade of her lemons. She simply learned to find new ways to do things, and often, we had to limit her resourcefulness! We were all relieved to finally have simplicity at shower times, and Sarah was super excited to hit the water for swim team practice.

Needless to say, Sarah was definitely willing to pose for a few pictures!

Christmas Time

2011-12-05T08:02:00.001-08:00

We LOVE to decorate for Christmas. This year has been a new adventure with our cat, Sophie. We have heard so many stories of cats with trees. Some are so funny, but all made us a little leery of how Sophie would do. As we unpacked the tree and began to place the branches this is what we got.

Our tradition is always to decorate the weekend of Thanksgiving. The kids always remind us. They love being a part of it. It is great as they have grown since our tree is quite tall. They all have a blast attaching the branches and making the tree look beautiful.

I always grew up with a real tree. When Dan and I married, money did not allow for a real tree. Someone gave us some money to buy a tree. We were able to buy this artificial blue spruce for $28. It was on a killer sale at Walmart. We bought the last one the they had the day before Christmas, but I love it because it really does have a real look to it. It has lasted us for 13 years! I dread the day that we will have to retire it.

We really enjoy decorating with our Christmas village, lit garland on the mantle (our bass really loves the highlight colors he gets), and of course the piano top. I love evenings with it all lit up and glowing. We just purchased some lit garland for our deck too. I can’t wait til the hubby gets home to help me string it up.

Really?!

2011-11-18T04:00:00.000-08:00

There in moments in life when we see something take place, and our only reaction is to scratch our head and wonder what truly that one was thinking.

We seldom ever enter the world of McDonald’s anymore. I have to say that I truly don’t miss the place, but after swim practice, the girls begged and begged. Dollar menu it was. We met Dan at a local McD’s, and we planned to have an enjoyable meal.

We had begun eating our lunch when we watched a guy come to the counter with his empty fry box. It was odd to me that his fry box was empty. I know that there are free refills, but I thought that was limited to only drinks. He spoke to an attendant, and she took the box. I was quite intrigued. Was she really going to give him more fries? Then, the manager approached. She asked the man again what was wrong with the fries. He complained that the fries tasted funny and seemed to be burnt. The manager smirked and told the man that she would like to help him, but since his fry box was empty, she couldn’t find anything wrong with the fries. He huffed and started to complain but decided to just drop it. I watched him walk back to his seat with his family of small children and wife (I assume). The wife asked him, “How’d that go?” He shrugged, and he began to eat the fries he had dumped out in an attempt to get more. Based on the way he was shoving them in, I would see no reason to complain.

Really, to go to that extreme for free fries! I mean we are talking fast food, drenched in grease, not really a potato fry! That deserves a Monday Football, “C’MON MAN.”

I forgot…How horrible is that!

2011-11-17T12:02:00.001-08:00

My kids absolutely love homeschool activities. We have a great homeschool group that does skating, bowling, and swimming every month. It has been a ton of fun.

My kids are always at the pool. My three are a part of a swimming team, and they practice two days a week. They are always begging to go to the pool to just swim for fun. I get tickled when they beg because I know that shortly after they enter the pool they will begin to challenge each other to races in the swimming lanes. I love it that they love it! They beg to go back for more!

Yesterday was our first homeschool swim. So needless to say that when I announced we would be homeschool swimming, mass celebration erupted by all three.

I left the dining room table feeling that wonderful feeling of awesomeness as a homeschool mom. As I sat on the couch to talk to my husband, Sarah arrived at my side complete distraught and in mass tears. I looked at her and asked her, “What is wrong? What happened?” In the most broken words, she said, “I can’t swim.” Without thinking I asked, “Why not?” All she did was hold up that little broken hand!!! Oh man, I felt so very horrible. In that moment of excitement, we had all forgotten.

Poor Sarah is such a trooper! She got DSi privileges from her big sissy’s, and that seemed to alleviate all of the traumatic effect I had caused! Daddy even let her put her feet in the water. She asked me numerous times, and I was the bad guy who said no. I just had this vision of her falling in with cast dripping.. UGH! I had the perfect plan. I would just have her text Daddy and let him agree with Mommy, right? It would have worked if Daddy wouldn’t have said yes! Oh what fun! She did well, and after a little dip with the feet, she was perfectly content the rest of the afternoon. December 6th cannot get here fast enough.

Skateland USA

2011-11-11T07:21:00.001-08:00

My kids and I love homeschool event days. This week we chose to go roller skating. The kids love to skate, and due to the cost, we definitely do not go often. This was a great deal. For five bucks we all got to skate, eat as many hot dogs or pizza slices we wanted, and drink as much soda as we wanted for three hours! Wow!

As I took to the floor, I was quickly reminded why I do not skate often, and it is for this reason that no cell phone or camera pictures were allowed. I was thankful that Dan could not join us for this trip as it took me a while to get my skating legs.

It was so much fun. The kids are all great and daring skaters, but me... I like to cling to the wall a little bit more. I did eventually get the hang of it, and I was able to be in the throes of everyone and feel confident.

My girls were quick to see that I had ventured from the wall and came right over to express their pride at my feat. I was feeling good. In the whole time, we were there I had not fallen. We only had twenty minutes left of skating. Sarah and I were zooming around the rink, and it happened. I managed to hit a small piece of plastic that some one had dropped. It stopped my front skate dead! I struggled to get my center of balance, and then plop, right on my bottom I went. I must say I was very careful to not place any hands out to break my fall. We already have one broken bone in the family at the moment. The nice staffer who patrols the kids skating came to my aid. I was even glad when he believed me that I had run over something. My kids had all rushed to my aid. "Mom, are you ok?" "Mom, you scared me!" "Mom, is anything broken?" I assured them I was fine, and the nice gentlement helped me up. Off we went skating again. My kids barrage of questions simply reminded me that I was thirty -five and no longer able to bounce as well as I once used to! UGH!

I was so pleased when the staff man who assisted me found me to let me know he too had rolled over the plastic, and it had removed. It was so very apologetic. I felt like asking, "Do I look that old?"

I was truly thankful that all that working out paid off, and I am not even the least bit sore today. I just have a little wounded pride, but there were only a handful of us parents out there. Celebrate the little victories.

Homeschool skating was a success, and we are all looking forward to next month!

Oh the Joy!

2011-11-06T14:01:00.001-08:00

Here we go again. This morning Sarah Joy and I made a visit to the ER. She had a major bike wreck Friday night. It was one of those crashes one witnesses and then is afraid to go see the damage. I was scared to look. I am not squeamish when it comes to many things, but when it is one of my own, I tend to get sick.

As I assisted Sarah to her feet, I noticed the way she manuevered her left hand. We were all getting ready to meet Dan at church. I think my words were, "Get in the car. We are going to ER." Well, after having Dan check her out, she seemed ok. We let it go and thought to watch her. When she didn't use it much yesterday and she couldn't do simple things like pick up a brush, it was time.

So here is my bundle of joy, she is not enjoying the life of a broken bone. Thankfully we got in and out of the ER without incident. The doctor was so nice. Since he only used the word fracture as he splinted her, Sarah had no clue. After we were discharged, Sarah says to me on way to car, "See it wasn't a broken arm just a splinted one!"

We go tomorrow to see the orthopedist. The nurse made her day when she told her that she could get a cast in any color. We shall see. She is such a cutie pie.

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Our Not So New Family Member

2011-11-04T08:26:00.000-07:00

For the past few years, Abby has begged, pleaded, cried, and begged some more for a cat. Shockingly to me, my dear hubby didn’t seem to mind having a cat in the house. It was four on one. For many many months I was able to hold out. The kids did research and asked questions of so many others who had cats to help change my mind, but I WAS NOT budging…. UNTIL..Abby’s dear friend got a cat.
Oh the drama! Here was my daughter all broken up over her friend’s ability to have a cat. It was earth shattering news, and Abby was really struggling. She had been praying for a cat for forever. It was all she talked about, and now one of her closest friends had one.
Hence this spawned much conversation between me and the hubby. You see I just hated cats. I have never gotten along with a cat period! So my hubby came up with an idea, let’s visit the local humane society and just look at cats. No problem for the non cat lover!!!
We prepared the girls that we were going to visit the pound, ask questions, and look at the different types of kittens available. You know, the explore all our options and see if one would work for mean old mommy who was holding the family back. The girls were so excited. I think we held all the kittens in the place, and we even got the right idea of the one for our family…I mean if somehow one should melt my cold heart and I relent.
It was pretty much decided after we left that day that we were going to get a cat. We even told the kids. Camp was the following week, and so we promised them that upon their return from camp we would kitten hunt. They were so excited, and now, I became the hero!
Dan and I decided we better go survey the options before they came home from camp. Somehow we even decided that if we found one we liked we should go ahead and get her. You know, that way she could be adjusted to life in our home before the kids bombarded her with hugs and kisses and loads of attention! As we looked through all the kittens, I began to grow discouraged. I just couldn’t find one I really wanted us to have. Then, we got to see the kittens that had just had their spaying surgeries. There she was. So cute..so lovable..so cuddly.
We brought her home, and we only got the necessary items. We decided to surprise the girls. We would tell them we needed to unload the car and do a few things at home before we went kitten shopping. I will never forget the look on the kids face when we got home, and they began to realize there was a litter pan and bag of litter. We told them that we were just getting ready to pick out our kitten. Then, out from behind the chair came the cat. Rebekah and Sarah raced for her, and Abby, well my dear drama queen, just stood there in shock!
We just love our little Sophie! She isn’t quite so little anymore!

My Favorite Gym Moments!

2011-11-03T06:42:00.001-07:00

I proudly bear the title of “Gym Rat.” I love going to the gym. I love the feeling of accomplishment I get, and I so love having negative calories when I am done. I am so excited to have finally passed over the thirty pound hurdle. Woo hoo! I still have a long way to go, but it is so much fun to focus on small success.

One of my favorite things has been meeting new people. Gym rats are usually people of routine. We all are consistently there together, and it is a neat accountability system too. One of my favorite people is Bob. He is a former Methodist pastor of 40 years, and he is currently filling in for a small church as interim. He is really neat, and it is great to have someone to share spiritual blessings with as well.

Throughout the months at the gym, I have seen and heard some interesting things. It has been comical to watch different people as they work out. So here are just a few of some of my favorite moments at the gym.

One of my favorites by far was with the hip adduction/abduction machine. We have a real funny guy that is older, and he is always cutting up with people. A lady was trying out the machine for the first time. I was on a nearby machine, and Ralph was on the machine beside her. She was asking me how the machine was supposed to work. Before I could answer Ralph chimed in and asked if she wanted the automatic setting or manual. She looked puzzled. Ralph told her to stand up a sec and he would show her. I was rolling!!!! She was actually thinking there was an automatic setting. Ralph sat down and tapped the yellow weight insignia, and acted as though the machine was working for him. Then he tapped the button again, and he acted as though the weights were some how heavier. The lady looked at me, and she said, “Wow!” I couldn’t let her believe him, and thankfully, Ralph quickly added that he was just having some fun. We all had a great chuckle!

My next favorite moment comes from this same machine. I was working on the machine beside the hip abduction/adduction machine, and a teen girl that works out regularly sat down to work out. I was the only other person working out at that time. As she went to adjust the machine to her desired weight, she looked at the setting and then at me, with eyes wide she asked, “Is this YOU?”. I happily replied that yes it was. She then responded with Wow! Ha Ha. I loved it. It totally made my day!

My last favorite moment is a conglomeration of the many of the same comments I have gotten. I work out with many of the same people on a daily basis. Over and over again, people have come up to me and said, “What kind of diet are you on? You are really losing some weight.” I have to scratch my head cause I am not really on a diet, but rather I am burning the calories that I consume. So when I tell them I am counting my calories, many ask, “So, is the gym thing helping?” LOL! No not at all it is just why I am here everyday! When I respond with a yes, the next question is always how long do you work out. Then it gets interesting when I respond with an hour and a half each weekday. It is always varied, but usually along the lines of, “I could never do that much or boy, your dedicated or more power to you.” Too funny! I cannot imagine going to the gym everyday and not seeing results.

Monuments, Memorials, and More…

2011-10-21T09:16:00.001-07:00

We started off our tour of Washington in style. Our first stop was the Lincoln Memorial. It has to be one of my favorites, but I have decided I have lots of those. You might just hear that frequently! It was neat that Uncle Dale had a name we could find on the Vietnam Wall, and I love how the reflection was captured in the photo too. We also walked past the Washington Monument. Boo, that it was closed for repairs due the recent earthquake. I am saving pictures of our trip to the World War II Memorial for the day we went at night. We also saw the Jefferson Memorial and the FDR Memorial. There was so much information to glean at all these locations. I loved reading all the old quotes from some of these very great men who were so instrumental in our nation being so successful. One of my favorites is from Thomas Jefferson: “If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, then it expects what never was and what never will be.” Wow! That is quite a statement, and it truly historically applies. So here are just a few, and I do mean few, pictures of our memorial visit.

We took a slight break and visited the Smithsonian of American History. I got so tickled as to the decision as to which side to visit. The museum has an east and west side. What my dear hubby did not know was that the girls had already been informed that the west side had all the famous dresses and inaugural gowns from many of our first ladies. Dan went so dutifully to read the the map to see which side we should tackle. He came back and to tell us the east side was the most practical.. you know all the war stuff and such. The girls had already decided we should see the west! He he! He just loves having a houseful of women. Here are a few pics of our wonderful exploration through this amazing museum.

There was an awesome hands on science center. The kids really enjoyed trying out several new ideas. We all had a blast, and I highly recommend the American History museum. There is truly something for everyone. The inaugural dresses were truly amazing. I loved the red one (bottom rt. corner) that belonged to Laura Bush, and the one above was a Nancy Reagan and Barbara Bush. These ladies truly arrived in style.

To Mayberry and Beyond…..

2011-10-19T11:21:00.001-07:00

Via

I have to say that I am a huge Andy Griffith fan. I remember as a kid we all crowded around the TV to watch the show together. I remember when the Return to Mayberry movies came out, and we got to stay up late to watch them. Oh the memories.
Well, what does that have to do with vacation? As we were driving up Interstate 77 on our way to Virginia, we say this sign for Mt. Airy. We had time, and we decided it was worth a stop. We had a blast as we visited the museum. I had no idea how many movies Andy G has starred in. It was like reliving my childhood as we saw the old Matlock office stage and the Mayberry jail stage. We oo’ed and aw’ed over all sorts of memorabilia. We got to see Andy as a baby, a teenager, and then the actor. I was so sad we couldn’t take any pictures inside the museum, but I did manage to capture a few outside…

Then, we began to tour Mt. Airy itself. We started by visiting the birthplace of Andy. It was such a modest little home. His parents bought the home for $600 in the 1930’s, and they sold it for $6,000 in the 1960’s when they moved out to live near Andy in California. It is now available to rent.

We then moved on to the Mt. Airy jail and the little Mayberry community that has been recreated there. I got so tickled since it even had the home of the Darling family located there. I think the thing that made it the best fun is that my kids are all huge fans of the Andy Griffith Show! I just love it!!!! We even got to eat lunch at the Barney café! It was just a quick pit stop with some great memories.

Home safe and sound!

2011-10-17T06:53:00.001-07:00

We made it home safe and sound midnight on Friday! Phew! What a full week of sight seeing we had. It was a wonderful trip, and I have to give a huge shout out to our Uncle Dale who made this trip possible. He heard Dan and I talking about wanting to go, and he made it all possible. Here he is in our photo from our trip to Mt. Vernon.

I will be posting here on many of our activities and thoughts. We saw so much, and we learned so much. It was so humbling to walk and stand in the same places that some of the greatest men ever have been. I was totally in awe!

Washington, DC Bound!

2011-10-06T11:36:00.001-07:00

We are on our way to DC. We have all been counting down for this trip. We were all loaded and ready to head out by 8:00 am. Can you tell we are prepared for travel and vacationing with kids?

We took a little travel break in Mt. Airy, NC. It was neat to see sights that were all popularized on the Andy Griffith Show. We chose to dine in at Barney's Cafe, and we visited the remake of the jail from the set of the show. We all had a blast.

Hhhmmm..it is time to hit the road again. Next stop, who knows! I have even been sent to the back of the car for this trip. I am trying to keep my backseat driving in check :)

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My Journey: Part 2

2011-10-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

There is so much that goes into being successful at weight loss. For me the recognition of just how far out of hand the situation had become was a necessity. I had many excuses. Of course, no one ever wants to say, “Yes, you really do need to lose weight.” Naturally, there is never a good time to begin weight loss.

Via

For me, I truly had to recognize what carrying around all this extra weight was doing for me. That was ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! I was so miserable that I could not truly enjoy life. In the spring, we went hiking to Table Rock, and I literally had to will to make it up the mountain. Wow! It was a real taste of truly how out of shape I was. It was so embarrassing. My kids were miles ahead of me. I was constantly bringing up the rear, and I didn’t enjoy that. I knew I had to do something.

It is amazing to me how much like a different person I already feel. In June, we went hiking at South Mountain, and this time I was hardly winded. It was a great hike, and I was able to enjoy it all. I am dying to go hiking again. It is so great to feel in shape, and I still have soooo far to go.

I also had to recognize how this affected my family. How was I as a mom to teach proper diet to my children? How could I tell them they needed to watch what they ate as I kept adding pounds year after year?

The affect my weight loss has had on my family has been so positive. We are all eating better, and my kids understand that it is a choice. It doesn’t mean they can never have cookies or chips. It just means that our choices have to be balanced. It is great to see them contemplate what to eat, and I love for them to ask me how many calories something has.

I still have sooo very far to go in this journey, but it has been a fun ride. My first few weeks, I didn’t seem to be losing the weight, but I never calculated the loss in measurements. It was unreal when I began to realize that I had lost inches. Losing the first ten pounds felt like I had lost thirty!

I remember the devastation I felt when I one day decided to just measure my waist! I was in shock, and the only image I could see was the little girl who turned into the blueberry in Willie Wonka’s Chocolate Factory! Wow! It feels so good to fit into skirts and such that I haven’t worn in years, and the best part is that they are beginning to feel quite roomy!

via

If you know someone who is struggling and working to lose weight, please please be an encouragement!

My Journey, Part 1

2011-09-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

Phew! I have never been a skinny little chick. Oh, I have had lots of friends that were, but I was always the one who never had to worry because I had big bones or Dad’s broad shoulders or the frame to handle more weight. Those don’t really help with self confidence issues. Until recently, I was facing a subtle but consistent weight gain per year. I would try to watch what I ate, but with the crazy schedule of being wife and secretary to the administrator of a small Christian school and pastor, I never had the time to exercise consistently, and the stress was only adding to my weight gain. This summer, I became inspired by a dear friend who began to rave about a program called loseit. She was having all this success, and I kept thinking it would be so nice to feel the same. It was summer, and I had the time. My thoughts were to just begin a consistent workout that I could do Monday through Friday at the gym. Once I became consistent, I could work on the time frame I would need to prepare for my day once school began. So I began after our vacation to the Cincinnati area and the Creation Science Museum. Here are a couple of pictures of me during that trip.

I love this picture and the moment Sarah and I were having, but I look at it and so hate what I had become weight wise.

This is our family at the museum. It is so funny because that shirt was one of my faves as it was so comfy. Now it is a little too comfy! LOL.

I began working out faithfully, and I have now become a gym rat! I love it! I have all my little gym buddies that work out the same time I do, and it is so encouraging. Probably the best part of it all though is that I have lost almost 30 pounds since June 1. It has been a huge process of reprogramming, and I really do have to rave on Loseit. I began charting everything I ate on it, and boy! it didn’t take long for me to really understand I needed a life style change.

Dan and I had talked frequently about my desire to lose weight. He is very negative about the whole diet thing. Partly because we all see some one diet to lose a bunch of weight only to gain it back more quickly than they lost it. He just didn’t want that to happen with me. So, I didn’t diet, and I can say honestly that I haven’t given up one thing I love to eat. I just learned when I could! It is amazing to think that I have lost 28 pounds to date, and I still eat ice cream, drink sweat tea, and enjoy these delicious chocolate tortes I make with a dear friends help. It is also amazing how it has affected the meals and family as well. We have all become a little more healthier due to my changes.

It is a journey, and it is truly one I have only recently begun. I cannot begin to express how the loss of not only weight but also inches from my waist and arms make me feel so much more in control, energized, and free.

I even let my hubby take some pics this past weekend. So here are Sarah and I again!

2010-07-04T13:51:00.001-07:00

Sarah just lost her first tooth! She was so excited.

Our New to Us Suburban

2010-06-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

Our New Suburban (new to us!)

A few months ago we learned our van was going to die. It wasn't a matter of if but of when. I truly didn't want the "when" to take place when I had the van. So we parked the van, and we all squished everywhere and anywhere in our little Honda Civic. We are so thankful to only have one child in a booster seat still! We prayed for the Lord to open the right doors for us in the car search endeavor. We made some contacts to some Christian car dealers we knew, and we waited. Just before our school graduation, the Lord gave us the opportunity to purchase our suburban. We are so pleased. Dan and I had both desired to buy one, and we had discussed it numerous times, but the market for them here doesn't work for this pastor's family income. The Lord provide far and above what we ever thought we would be able to afford. The girls are so excited to have room to stretch out and be comfortable, and it makes for much happier kids as we travel more than the ten miles back and forth to church. I am so pleased to not have to squish all my Sam's Club purchases in the back of our Honda. LOL..

I wanted to be sure to share this special blessing along. Truly, God will give us the desires of our heart! I am so thankful to serve an amazing God!

My fondant experience

2010-05-20T09:23:00.000-07:00

So, we decided to have a little graduation party for Sarah Joy. I needed to make some kind of cake. I wasn't really sure how so I asked an expert. So, after some great coaching, I stepped out on a limb with the help of my hubby to make some homemade fondant. It was definitely entertaining to say the least. After all that hard work, I was able to put this together for my first attempt. I am not overly pleased, but I will take it for my first try.

My Lollipop Gerbera Daisy

2010-05-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

With our recent deck project, I needed just the right flower that would be perfect for it. I happened upon this unusual daisy at Lowe's over the weekend. With all the additional lumber pieces from the deck, Dan made me a very nice planter stand! He worked really hard to make it just perfect.

My Graduate

2010-05-18T07:06:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I thought that having my baby go off to Kindergarten this year was hard. It wasn't so bad. Working as the school/church secretary, I actually got to see more of her then I would have if she was still in preschool. I was wrong.

On Monday, graduation practice began. Although the K5's only wore their caps to get used to that tassel flying around, it was still tough. Thankfully, on Wednesday, I had a preview of my emotion as we had a full rehearsal. BUT NOTHING prepared me to see my little girl walk down that aisle. She actually appears shy in this picture! She was so cute. She did exactly what she was supposed to do. She was so adorable. It was like this whirlwind of my little girl is growing up emotion!

Her class did a presentation of poems, verses, and songs they had learned throughout the year. It was so cute to see them all do the motions. My favorite was their "Graduation song" they did as a finale. It goes like this: "1 plus 1 is 2, 2 plus 2 is 4, 4 plus 4 is 8, 8 plus 8 is FIRST GRADE!" Too cute. I love how none of their tassels are correct during this presentation. They had all been jiggled around. Thankfully our K5 teacher fixed them before they left for the platform. :)

One of the great privileges that all of our children have had is having Daddy as administrator. Dan has been able to give all of our girls their K5 diplomas. I can't imagine how hard it will be if he has to give them their high school diplomas. It was so precious as he bent down to take his moment of being DADDY. Sarah was so surprised. He hadn't practiced it that way. Wow, that was another great moment!

Of course, no graduate is ready without her tassel turned and her diploma in hand. We had this great photo diplomas for our K5 students this year. As the cover opens, on one side there was a graduation portrait , and on the other a very nice diploma. They looked great!

Of course, we had a wonderful photo time following graduation. One is never quite sure exactly what smile Sarah will give. We have to work on the natural pose smile for a while.

No Greater Joy

2010-05-18T06:27:00.000-07:00

I often think of the verse, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." It is really so true. We talk to our kids a lot about the privilege they have to grow up in a Christian home. Funny how now I view that a little differently then I did as a kid who often didn't get to do everything else my friend's were.

We are so thankful to say that all three of our children have now come to a point of salvation in their lives. Our oldest two had begged and begged to be saved. I know that sounds horrid to think that we let our kids beg to be saved, but we really wanted to be sure that they understood what salvation really meant.

On Sunday morning, Sarah Joy, who has never mentioned wanting to accept Christ, surprised me. She came to me immediately after church, grabbed me by the hand, and insisted that when we got home Daddy and she could go to the deck cause she needed to get saved. I asked her why she had decided this, and she simply replied that it was her sins from yesterday. She had been in quite a bit of trouble Saturday evening. She was so sincere. Previously, we had to resolve arguments in the car that if our whole family died Sarah wouldn't go to heaven. Oh how fun to explain that one.

Sarah rode home from church with our friend who was joining us for lunch. I asked Dan if Sarah had told him the same she had told me. So we decided that we would let her talk to Dan. That way it would really be a decision she felt she needed to make.

Sure enough, I had begun to put lunch together, and Sarah came in the kitchen and told Dan exactly what she had told me. Off the two of them went to the deck, and they didn't return until Sarah had "gotten the gift." It was quite cute to hear her explain to me what happened. I don't think she was prepared for all my questions. At one point she was quite clear that it went like this, "It's a gift. You know like a present, and you just take it. You just take the gift." So cute. I am so thrilled that all of my kids have come to a point when they realized their need for our Savior in their lives.

Now we would covet your prayers as they continue to grow that they would grow in their personal relationships with Christ!

Red or Yellow

2010-05-16T06:05:00.001-07:00

For Mother's Day my dear hubby and girls fed my love for hibiscus. I had purchased an orange colored tree earlier, and they all knew I was dying to have a yellow one. After searching the produce store where we buy our plants, Dan brought home this beautiful tree with all yellow blooms and some beginning to form. After planting it and seeing it grow, as new blooms begin to form, I now have a red and yellow tree. I absolutely love it. It is like a double blessing cause I had such difficulty deciding against the red. My theory is that one of the three braids of the trunk was red and thus giving the variety. Rare I am sure, but I am quite pleased!

2010-05-10T05:56:00.001-07:00

Our little graduate!

What is life?

2010-05-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

James 4:13,14 state, "Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.

There are times that come in go in life when Scripture takes on a whole new meaning. Growing up in a Christian home, I have always been in church to be trained from the Word of God. Throughout school and Bible college and ministry, I have probably heard hundreds of messages on this passage at camps and youth rallies and revivals and more. On April 10th, no one was preaching, but God was definitely speaking.

The morning started so quietly. Dan and I got up and ate breakfast. We enjoyed our last morning alone for the spring break week. Our girls had been with my parents since Wednesday. Dan and I had worked in the garden and done some other projects around the house as well as spend some quality quiet moments together. It was Saturday now, and time to meet my parents at our favorite stomping grounds "Bass Pro Shops." Oh the anticipation was great. Dan and I were eager to purchase our new fishing rods and so many others must haves for our upcoming tournament. Plus, I love walking around as my dad always shows us a few neat things.

We arrived to Bass Pro a few minutes ahead of my family. My mom had text me when they last stopped. I figured the family should arrive about twenty minutes after us. Dan and I went to look at all the stuff we had been waiting to buy. Then, we began to look at our watches. We knew the family would arrive any minute. We strategically placed ourselves in the fishing section so that the girls and Mom and Dad would see us. We just kept waiting for that delightful cry of "Daddy, Mommy". You know when the kids are so excited to see you! Dan's cell phone rang. He didn't recognize the number, but we both had one of those it would be good to answer it gut feelings.

It was that phone call. You know, the one that as a parent you never ever get! "Sir, I have your daughters, and they have been in an accident." I saw Dan's facial expression change instantly. I knew something was wrong. He was way to bent on understanding every word. Then he mouthed, "ACCIDENT!" We were calm through the first sentence. The second one had Dan bolting for the door, unpurchased sunglasses in hand. I followed to hear him say, "But is everyone out?" What... did he just ask if everyone is out. Then it hit me. Why is my dad or mom not calling me? Why is this perfect stranger who Dan struggled to understand calling. I play back through my broken understanding of this phone call frequently. I remember something about fire, but all were out. Then he talked to Abby. I could hear her cries, but I couldn't understand her words. Something about Mom and Dad... It was Dan asking if Mom and Dad were out and ok. I heard the panic in her voice as she cried out.. "I DON"T KNOW! They won't let us see them." Ok, Ok,, reminder to breathe. Dan got back on the phone with the original lady to find out they were a mere mile and half from the Bass Pro exit. Only a mile and half!!! Dan drove like mad. I remember he said we are on the way, and hung up. We prayed and tried so hard to be strong. I remember seeing the speedometer hit at least 90. We had to loop around an exit to get in the North bound lane. It was the longest two red lights of my life. I could see three fire engines, two ambulances... lots of people.

We pulled up. I could see my parents laying on the grass as six paramedics surrounded them. My feet were touching the ground before the car stopped. I had no clue where Dan was behind me, but I had to move. I had to go to them. I got there, but they wouldn't let me talk to them. The lady medic was so kind. I remember trying to hold back the tears as I assessed the damages. Mom had her eyes closed. I could see a nasty cut on her left foot. Otherwise I was pleased. Dad had a gaping gash across his knew. I heard him cry out as they moved him on the back board, and I saw the wincing of his eyes. He was hurting. Could he move his legs? Mom had no shoes. Dad had his sandals still. The medic... "Ma'am.. ma'am.. your parents are conscious." Phew, mom's eyes closed and calmness was of her own volition. Wait a minute... what does conscious mean.. "Ma'am that's all I can tell you. Let us do our job. Let's find your girls!" At that point Dan was near by. Somehow I was still ahead of him. It seemed like eternity passed. "C'mon, honey let's get the girls." We headed toward this circle of people.

I hear "MOMMY!" "DADDY!" with a bit of a shriek to it. It was beautiful. It was Sarah, and somehow she had managed to break free from the people and ran to me. I swung her around, held her out, and said..Wow.. you aren't hurt. I remember her saying, "but Granddaddy is." I looked back toward my parents. A stretcher followed by another was heading from a nearby ambulance. The circle opened, and there were my other two beauties. Blood! Lot's of blood on Bek's face and Abby's legs. I remember the feeling of this isn't happening. The medics were telling Dan that they had gotten most of the glass out. "Let's head to the ambulance to check them out more completely." There we no obvious breaks, and it didn't appear there would be any internal injuries. All just seemed to be superficial cuts.

As we got to the ambulance, I asked where they were planning to take my parents. It was hard to not go with my parents to the hospital. Since the girls were not critical, they were originally heading to another closer hospital. Thankfully, the medics conferred and decided that they should all go to the same hospital. Thank the Lord. There was so much going on all at once. The medics asking medical record questions, the state trooper needing the information pertinent to the accident, and I watched them roll my parents to the ambulance and drive away. I had so wanted to ride with them. I was glad that they took them both in the same ambulance. I couldn't bear to think that they were alone! Yet, I couldn't bear the thought of leaving my girls alone.

The paramedics decided that the girls needed to go by ambulance rather than releasing them to us to take to the ER. Dan was going to follow the ambulance and I was to ride up front with the driver. As I was climbing into the ambulance, the driver came around to where I was and said, "This isn't going to work. You are going to have to ride in the back." The girls went into a panic when they realized they were going to be without one of us. It was an interesting trip for sure.

When we got to the ER, I just assumed that we would all be nearby. I could easily go from Dad to Mom to girls. NOPE. CMC has a pediatric ER and an adult ER. They were three halls apart. Once we got the girls into a room to wait for the doctor, I went on my search for Mom and Dad. Only, I couldn't just go see them. I had to check in and then they had to evaluate the condition to see if I could see them. At the time, they were both on another floor getting CT scans. The rep was so kind. She said that they had been together this whole time, and she would come the peds ER to get me as soon as I could see them.

The representative kept her word. She came to the girl's ER room to find me. Abby was having her stitches put in, and due to her bruising, she had to have an abdominal ultrasound. Once the doctor left and the girls were released, I headed back to the ER. It had been almost two hours from the time the accident happened til I got to see my parents. Dad was still in a trauma room, and Mom had been moved to the hallway to await an open room. Dad was hurting so much, and Mom seemed to be doing really well. The nurses encouraged a brief visit in the ER for the girls. She felt after the trauma they had all been through they needed to know everyone was OK. The doctor came in and spoke with me. He stated that since it was such a traumatic impact for the body Mom and Dad would have to stay in observation over night. Dad had to go to a separate floor then Mom because he had to have his heart rate monitored as well.

By this point, I had already talked to my youngest brother several times. He was on his way, and then I had to make the rest of the phone calls. I was such an emotional wreck. I had to call my Dad's parents. It was the hardest call I have ever had to make. I was so thankful to be able to tell them that they were going to be all right.

Mom was badly bruised from top to bottom, but praise the Lord there were no breaks or internal bleeding. Dad had two breaks in his back. Thankfully, they were the transverse processes. Unfortunately, there was nothing the doctor could do for them except let them heal over time. The most unfortunate thing was Mom was on the eleventh floor and Dad was on the third. My brother and I made many trips up and down in a 24 hour period.

I was so thankful that Dan and the girls were all close by. It was a long 24 hour period, but the doctors finally released my parents. My brother headed to SC, and we headed back home. I was going home to pack and say a goodbye to my family to head to my parents until they were up and around again. It was so very hard to say goodbye to them all. I was able to spend a week with my folks. It was great to see them progressing each day. As the time came for me to head home, my desire to be with my family was great, but the dread of walking away from folks was high. I can't put into words the emotion that comes with knowing my family was spared. To hear the wrecker driver say people don't walk away from that. To hear the doctors say your parents were lucky. It was a miracle. I was so close to losing all but my husband, and in just one quick second. I had no control over any of it. Tears flowed. Tears of joy, tears of pain, tears of all that could have been...It took me two weeks to not get teary everytime I spoke with my parents or sent my kids off to school. It was a huge gut check. What would I have done if the outcome would have been different? Where would my faith have been then? Would I have the faith to move on? It is amazing to me the grace God gives in each difficulty. He never leaves the same. He is always seeking to grow us, to mature us, to increase our faith.

After three weeks, my parents are doing so well. We just made a recent visit with the family. It was so good to see them moving around so freely. My brother and I joked a few weeks earlier about how slowly they moved around. Walkers and canes were a sign of the years to come.

My point in all of this is I still have two parents and three beautiful daughters. I saw the car, and I saw where it had been and the damage left behind. I was unprepared for what I saw. In my most human thoughts, I know that my family should not be alive. I am so thankful to have God who protects and cares for His own. There is no doubt in my mind that God sovereignly controlled each area of this accident. His hand of protection is every where. More than just having my family, I realized how truly brief life is. It is truly a vapor. I was so focused on having my fun and the day planned ahead that I never really thought about the what if"s. The Lord is the giver and the taker just as Job learned. I am so thankful that my family wasn't required of me that day. It has truly changed how I view my life and my life spent with my family and my view of my faith. We take so much for granted and put so little concern for God's plan in each detail. Goodbyes are different, and priorities change easily. I am so thankful that I was able to learn a lesson and still do some thing about it! Don't take life for granted. It is passes too quickly. Hold the little things dear and seek God's plan in each and every moment.

2010-03-29T15:54:00.001-07:00

We had some outdoor work to do this weekend. While the older two helped with the process, Sarah enjoyed relaxing in the dog house bottom with Mix. He was so kind and gentle with her. She didn't mind one bit.

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Mistaken Identity

2010-03-26T11:12:00.001-07:00

Bekah came in the house in a hurry and claimed to have seen a snake. We all love snakes in our family... NOT! Dan and I headed out to investigate. The head that Bek knew she had seen was not visible at all. We waited. I was busy working on laundry at the back of the house to come around the front to see them near the "sighting" zone. I asked my dear brave hubby if he had seen it. He claimed to have seen the head. I leaned in closely to the crack in the cross tie. Sure enough there was a head, but wait... the body accompanying that head had front legs. It was no snake, but it was the largest salamander I had ever seen.

My Favorite Pasttime

2010-03-24T10:43:00.000-07:00

There are so many things to enjoy. This weekend, it was so enjoyable to open windows, do yard work, and plant flowers, and all of it was so relaxing. For me, the one thing that is the epitome of stress free is fishing. It is a big plus that my partner is my dear hubby. We make a great team, and when those days come that just cause a need to get away, to find that quiet corner, we hit the lake. It doesn't matter what time of year, and it doesn't matter what we catch. In my life, I grew up near lake, and I spent so much time with my family fishing. I can tell you stories of fishing when the temps were so cold that the water froze on my line as I reeled it in, but I was happy. Even now, I put on layer after layer to go out in January to fish. It is so amazing. The sights you see while on the water are unrivaled by anything else. Deer crossing 100 to 200 yard stretches of water with only a head barely above water, ducks, sea gulls, squirrels, sunrises, and sunsets are all things I have seen in just the last year. It is amazing to be out enjoying God's creation in such a way. For me, nothing beats that nibble on the end of my line, the hook set, and the fight to reel in that catch whether it is a large bass or merely a little bream! So here is my first fish of 2010, compliments of Lake James (aka the dead sea). If you compare both pictures, you will see I have also been taught the art of framing a fish so that it always looks like a toad (that's fishing slang for really big fish)!

The Dead Fish Debacle...LOL

2010-03-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

I
We are in our week of Stanford 10 testing this week. I stopped in our kindergarten room to see if our teacher needed anything. One of the classroom pets had died overnight. She had bought the 38 cent goldfish at Walmart so they would be easy to match. I quick called Dan to see if he would pick one up to replace the dead one. We just couldn't have a meltdown on testing day. As the K5 took their bathroom break before testing, Dan and I worked to replace the dead fish. In the process of our hurry, we knocked over the very cheaply made sea monkey tank. Water went all over the floor. At this point I cracked open the classroom door, and I told the teacher we needed a hand. She thought it was all hilarious... thankfully! She was quick thinking on her feet, and suggested fill the sea monkey tank with the excess water from the fish bag, and it made all right with the world. (Well, except for the really wet spot on the floor, and the fact that the fish Dan purchased was shorter and slightly a different color then the one before.) We thought we had made it in the clear. After testing the students were looking at the fish when one asked why "Goldie" had changed colors. Another then piped in to explain that fish change colors when they are about to die! Oh no...groans could be heard around the room. The student who noticed the color change then mentioned "Goldie" looked shorter too. Of course, she had to look at the sea monkeys... At least she thought they were sleeping! So, before one's hubby goes to save the day, it might help to know what the dead fish looked like!

Lessons from the Tree

2010-03-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

Dan and I were so excited for this weekend. We looked forward to great weather and the opportunity to spend a whole Saturday at home. It is truly a rare treat!

Shortly before our lunch, our neighbor and a guest begin using a chainsaw next door. We ventured to a nearby window to see what tree was meeting its fate. It happened to be a tree that was on our side of the property line. It was quite odd. I had been hanging out clothes on our line, and as I brought a new set to hang, Dan popped out too. Our neighbor then was passing by to take equipment for the clean up to the tree. A passing casual comment was made about the tree, and then Dan asked if it wasn't on our side of the property line. Our neighbor was less then pleased that he should ask. She had some not so nice words to say about it and then stormed off. Later, as I was hanging out another load, the family member who was cutting the tree came by and he was going to bring down the two taller forks and wanted to be sure that girls weren't in the back yard. Yes, where the tree is laying is our yard, and he didn't want it to fall near the girls and scare them or scrape them. As he and I talked, our neighbor stormed up and told me not to involve him in "this mess." He quickly left the scene, and she begin to lay it on me. Apparently, asking your neighbor where the property line is a very bad thing. As she told me the trouble I was to our community, the only thing I did wrong was to have a husband that knocked on her door one day to ask about the property line. I did my best to nice and polite, and finally after Dan just agreed so they would have common interests, she walked away. The nice gentleman cutting the tree was now not to certain he wanted to cut the tree. He had mentioned that he thought the line was questionable but the neighbor had assured him it was hers to cut. Dan and I both could care less if the tree was cut. We were more concerned by the fact that she felt she could do whatever without a concern to us. Well, he finally decided to bring down another fork. This time, the fork kicked out as he sawed and landed awkwardly on his ankle. Off to the ER he went for xrays. Our poor neighbor who had made it very clear that she wanted us nowhere near her was left to clean up the remaining tree that was down in our yard. It tore the girls up. They took turns offering their help, and each was politely turned down. Abby asked Dan if God let the tree fall on the man's leg as punishment. We took some time to explain that there is a right way and wrong way to get things done. So often, we get set into what we ARE going to do at all cost and never add God's plan into the equation. We just press right along. It seems that God puts roadblocks in our paths to help us see our error, but often we just press right on through. It was a good lesson for our kids on treatment of others who don't treat you kindly even when you have done nothing wrong. The girls couldn't understand why she was so angry and why she said the things she had. While I don't enjoy being yelled at by an angry neighbor, it is such a small thing in light of the many who have suffered so for following Christ.

Happy Birthday Dear

2010-03-19T08:04:00.000-07:00

I am always excited for Dan's birthday. It makes him closer to my age by a few months. We are a year and half apart in age. Unfortunately, I am in the lead in counting years. Our wonderful church family got together on Sunday night for some cake and ice cream to celebrate.

My dear hubby has been lamenting over his gray hairs, and he has mentioned it a few time in his recent messages. So, to commemorate his birthday in style, he had a fishing cake cause we all know he likes that, and then, he had specially prepared cake. It was wonderfully baked carrot caked designed with Dan in mind.

Gray Hairs

2010-03-19T07:35:00.000-07:00

♦

It has finally happened. For some time now, my dear hubby has used my gray hair against me. He is always happy to remind me that I have few new ones here and there. It has never once bothered him that I am gray. Well, on a recent trip home from Asheville, NC, the sun was shining through the window just perfectly to shed light on a few gray hairs atop Dan's head. While I am resigned to the fact of my ever increasing grayness, this caught my dear hubby quite off guard. He just wasn't prepared for it. I think he is beginning his mid life crisis early. I have tried on several occasions to get a picture as proof for him especially since he has been in denial. Well, I finally did! I just had to share. Since his hair is so short it so hard to see, but it is truly there. Oh has the taunting begun!

Thankful for heat!

2010-02-10T08:18:00.000-08:00

There are times in life when I can remember my parents and grandparents saying to me, "There will be a time when you won't have this, and you wish you had." Well, now is one of those times. Our furnace decided it needed some attention. Our heating and air guy rushed right over to let find out that the burner had a nice five inch gash in it. Thankfully, he was able to order a part, but unfortunately, mother nature has proved to be the issue. Our part was to be shipped on Friday and arrive on Monday. It never shipped on Friday. So, needless to say we have been without heat for a week. UGH! The first few days weren't so bad. We were home and the space heaters we were using did a good job at keeping the temps fairly normal. Then came Monday and back to work. It is just not enough to compensate for the hours without heat. My kids think it so cool how much steam they can cause in the bathroom. Sarah last night said, "Yeah mom, and the water isn't even that hot!" I am so thankful for the six years of faithful heat from this system, and I am more thankful for the heat it will provide once this part is replaced.

Am I that old?

2010-02-07T05:27:00.000-08:00

This is my dear friend Julie. Last night, we embarked on a mission to find some four ounce aluminum foil cake pans. Who knew they would be so hard to find? I needed them for my chocolate torte recipe. We headed to a grocery store that I was sure would have them. They have more pans that type than any store around. After thoroughly walking every aisle, we had no luck. I decided my plan B was to use a soup type can. I called Dan to see if I could bake in one. He and I were on the phone when a grocery store worker was nearby. I turned to her and asked if she thought I could bake in a soup can. Julie was a little caught off guard that I really asked that question. So when that lady asked the front manager, Julie took matters into her own hand. I was on the phone so she had the conversation with 20 something too smart for her own good manager. Julie told this chic that I was her mom and I sometimes got confused easily. That Julie was just playing along to appease me. The girl asked her who was driving me and when Julie said.. OH I AM, she was so glad. Do I look old enough to be her mother? Who would belive such a thing? Dan began telling me that my idea actually had a little merit. I got off the phone and Julie and I went to find a conducive size can. We finally discovered it... Vienna Sausage cans! I was so excited. Then the manager arrived. She was like, "Oh, I thought you meant put a can in the microwave.." She was so condesending to me. She was so carefully explaining her every word and then she was describing these mini casserole dishes she bought in Hickory. She then explained to me what a casserole was. The whole time she kept looking back and forth between me and Julie. I was really starting to get irked. I made a statement that I hadn't thought to look in the store she bought her mini casserole dishes in. (which this mini casserole is actually called a ramekin). It isn't one I frequent. I was like of course I had three kids with me. To which, my dear friend, was shaking her head and mouthing it was only her... This poor manager thought I was crazy. So on the way out... Julie was playing along so well. She passed the manager and thanked her for playing along and the manager said... "It's ok. I have a mom too." Ah, I am so blessed to have good friends. I have not laughed so hard in a while! For the record, I do get the mom/daughter question a lot with Julie.

2010-02-06T08:35:00.001-08:00

We have had so many snow days this year. Here is a picture of our recent three inches from Friday. We had a night of snow and then sleet. It was a yucky day, but my second snow day of the week. This has been our third snow storm of the winter with a possibility of more next week. It will be strange when we actually have a five day school week with no delays.

My Dear Rebekah

2010-02-06T06:43:00.000-08:00

My dear Rebekah turned eight on December 31. Rebekah is my middle daughter and she struggles at times to just find herself. Surrounded by sisters can get complicated. Of course, she has her birthday so close to a holiday. One of the most special things about her birthday this year was her little sister, Sarah. She went the extra mile and spent all of her money on Rebekah without a care as to her not having a thing. What a sacrificial gift it was. She even helped with the wrapping. My girls are all very special gifts, and I love seeing them shine at the least expected moments.

My Sweet Hubby!

2010-02-06T06:36:00.000-08:00

My dear hubby decided to make a shelf. Now, this is not a huge task unless you are as OCD as my hubby when it comes to his projects being perfection. So if you ask him, he is not satisfied. Me, I am totally satisfied. It was so perfect to me that I just has to share. Of course, making the shelf meant Dan got to go to Lowe's and get much needed tools too. I don't care as long as they benefit me and our humble abode.

I love INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY!

2009-08-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

Following dinner tonight, our neighbor knocked on the door. It appears that someone drove into our mailboxes. Not only did they plow down four mailboxes with metal post and four inch wooden post, they then backed out from them and drove away. They made no attempt to notify anyone. It isn't as though all of our mailboxes have an address on them!!!! My favorite words in my American history classes are individual responsibililty. Since the modernist era, that has simply become non-existent. Dan and I did reassemble most of them, but all the post and a few of the boxes must be replaced. So sad...so goes the USA today.

My Little Sarah

2009-08-19T05:56:00.000-07:00

Sarah is the one in the family that you just aren't sure what exactly she is going to repeat or what she will say. She was so cute as she came home from the second day of school and did her best Mrs. Hembree impersonation as to what the behavior chart means.

Her claim to fame.

2009-08-18T18:02:00.000-07:00

We had a photographer for our local newspaper visit our open house. She took all kinds of pictures. Well..on the online paper...there was none other than my little Joy and some of her gang. She is sooooo cute.

http://www2.morganton.com/content/2009/aug/17/school-open-house-schedule/news-local/

PHEW!!!!

2009-08-18T16:59:00.001-07:00

Ok..for my dear friend...yes...I am posting this!! HA HA!

Ok, so my life got a little crazy, and I fell off the map for a while. Well, since I am going to be helpful in keeping the school blog up and running...I reckon it's time I got mine under control as well.

This summer flew by with trips to SC with my family and Utah to visit Dan's family. We had a blast. In the midst of it all, Dan managed to have a little surgery and change the pace of life up yet again. I am so glad he is back to normal. Through it all, I am so thankful for our wonderful church family who through this first year in the ministry has stood in the trenches with us and helped us lay the bricks to a wonderful foundation.

Our recent task has been getting the school year underway. This past week we have seen at least two new students daily. It has been a blessing to see God provide. His grace is truly amazing as it always seem to come when my last drop of strength is gone.

Our biggest hightlight thus far has been our little Sarah Joy joining the ranks of elementary school. She headed off to school for the first time, and my oh my, she was so very cute. The second day of school we got to celebrate her birthday. That was so much fun.

We are trying to get into the swing of things. Phew..in this family routine is a non-existent word....

I will try to post some pics soon.

The talking parrot

2009-07-25T06:28:00.000-07:00

During our trip to Utah this summer we had the opportunity to visit the Hogle Zoo. It was a great little zoo, and they have an awesome bird show. I loved this talking parrot. He was so funny.

Lewis and Clark Circus

2008-09-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time last night at a circus in town. It was nothing fancy, but in our "oh so busy" life, it was a night away from our constant stresses to just be with the girls. They had so much fun. Sarah would watch the acts with such intensity, and then she would tap me on the shoulder to let me know that if I tried that I would probably kill myself.

Abby got chosen out of all the kids in the crowd to hold an alligator. It was too precious. He asked for the bravest kid in the crowd. Abby was standing as tall as she could with her hand raised as high as it would reach. The ringmaster was looking in our directions and said, "That young lady right there." Abby pointed at herself as if to say, "You mean me?" The ringmaster was like, "Yeah you, in the cute little dress, with the nice little polo shirt, and cute curls." She had so much fun. She obviously has no stage fright whatsoever.

Of course, the kids got free tickets at school, and they so wanted to go, but they just figured we wouldn't. Dan really surprised them, and we all had an awesome evening out.

Ten Years Already!?

2008-08-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

Dan and I had the wonderful privilege to celebrate our tenth wedding anniversary. I had hoped to be able to scan in our wedding picture, but I can't get the scanner to cooperate, and it just isn't worth it tonight. Who knows...maybe tomorrow.

We have two coworkers who gave us one of the most memorable gifts ever. I thought I would share. It reads : Dan and Amy, we snickers at the thought of you two having spent ten years together. Twix us butterfingers we realize that many times you have had Zero tolerance for each other as you awaited a PayDay. However, you have given God top priority and claimed Him as you Lifesaver. May Christ bless your wedding anniversary. Love the Doves.

Double click the picture to see it for yourself! It was too cute.

From the mouth of Sarah

2008-08-03T06:22:00.000-07:00

I have been enjoying getting my new office tailored to my taste. One of the things that I have been lacking was a treat dish for all the little ones that stop by my window along the way. Yesterday, I picked up a nice dish and some M&M's for my dish. The kids all got to pick out a pack of candy too.

On the way home, the girls were all eating their candy, and my mom and I were sampling some new chocolate skittles. Sarah piped in,

"Grammy, can I have some of those M&M's in your bag?"

"No, Sarah, those are Mommy's, and she has a special place for them."

"I have a special place for them too, Grammy."

"You do?"

"Yep, right here in my hand!"

Oh my so matter of fact, nothing gets passed me little girl.

Whitewater Rafting

2008-07-19T04:36:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, Dan and I had the privilege to go rafting with a couple of our college kids and a senior. We headed to the Ocoee River in Tennesee. It is full of class III and IV rapids. Dan and I have taken our teens rafting numerous times, but it was on the Nantahalia which doesn't pack quite the same excitement. I think we were all ready to get wet and have some fun. Our guide was awesome. We had just started out on the river, and all of the sudden he landed right beside me in the boat as we went through a few little dips. He scared me because it was so unexpected. He jumped like that through most of the rapids. If you look at the pic this guide (while not ours) is doing the same thing. Notice the kid riding the front of the boat. Dan ( of course) as well as Megan and Nick all had to take their shots at the front. I think Dan is actually the only one that remained seated for the ride. Megan and Nick both fell back in the boat.

We had so much fun. Our guide managed to break his paddle in half. So he just used one of ours. On one of his wild jumps through the rapids, he mislanded. It bounced him out of the boat almost. He managed to grab my life vest strap and the side strap of the boat. As he tried to pull himself in, he was actually pulling me out. Thankfully, Megan turned just in the nick of time to save us both. It was quite the fun.

The best part was when our guide intentionally dumped us. We were approaching one of the last rapids, and he gave us the option of hitting it straight on or going through it sideways. We were up for the excitement. It was the ONLY rapid he said, IF you go out of the boat, don't worry. I think his statement got us all thinking. As we approached, he told us he would have us put all our paddles in the air so that no on got smacked. We got to the edge, he gave the command, and as my paddle was going up, I was going out along with Dan, Megan, Jessi, and NIck. I honestly thought the raft had turned over, but as we surfaced, there was our guide safely in the raft. As he approached us, he said, "Next time I tell you to lean right, lean right!" We all quickly informed him that he never gave us that command. He then laughingly stated that he had somehow forgotten. It was quite the experience floating through such a rapid. It was definitely an experience I would gladly do again today!

If you would like to actually see us going through the first rapid to get a real taste you can scoot on over to http://www.ocoeerafting.com/ and view pictures of Havard for the 1:30 trip on 7/17.

Am I that old?

2008-07-16T18:46:00.000-07:00

Today, we had a funeral at our church. The church was packed. I sat in the sound room with two friends, one who is 28 and the other a college student, 19. The funeral director kept coming back and forth to see what part of the service was going on. During one of the songs, he asked me if my two friends were my daughters. I choked. Oh, how I couldn't believe he was serious. I was like no way these aren't my daughters. Julie, my 28 yr. old friend, spoke up and said that she is the younger sister. Then in the most ridiculous voice I could I said that Jessi the college student was my daughter then. He totally bought it and thought we were serious. He went on and on about the resemblance. I made some joke about it being my gray hair. The funeral director told me that it was being married to a pastor. It was so hilarious, but seriously, I am only 31. Do I really look soooo old that I could have a 28 year old kid. Of course, I think it is an insult to my friend's maturity stating she didn't look her age, right? At least that is what I am going to believe.

Welcome to the pastorate

2008-07-14T04:41:00.000-07:00

Our church voted on Dan as the pastor last night. We received a 94% vote to call us as pastor. We were so excited. It has been a hard few weeks. We have been so busy doing the work of the ministry, but we haven't had the ability to do all we desire because of the limbo of waiting on the vote. Now, we are definitely here. We are all excited about the change. It has been great to already see the unity begin among our church people. Together we can build a wonderful work for Christ. Thanks to all my family and friends who have prayed so fervently for us throughout this process.

Questions and answers?

2008-07-05T09:06:00.001-07:00

Wow, what a busy week. Last Sunday we had a question and answer time as part of our candidating process at the church. Dan began by preparing a power point of the needs and our heartbeat for the ministry. it was so funny as he explained our burdens for our church. At one point he paused and explained that he wasn't trying to sound like a presidential hopeful, but that he wanted the people to understand our heart for the ministry. It went very well, and many of the questions were satisfied with the powerpoint illustration. The church will vote on the 13th of this month. We are praying for 100%, but understand that it may not happen. We just want a very clear indicator. Other than that, we are just hanging in limbo until then. If we are the choice, then I will begin as the church secretary, and we will begin making plans to start the school year. Thankfully, our Vacation Bible school is this week. It should be a great distraction for us as we look ahead to next week. It has been a whole lot of hurry up with even more wait.

2008-06-24T04:55:00.000-07:00

My favorite excursion in Utah was our visit to Olympic Park. Here are some pics.

Caught in the Whirlwind

2008-06-24T04:40:00.000-07:00

This summer had been super busy for us. We took our annual vacation to the lake with my parents in early May. We then came home for a few days rest and headed out to the wonderful world of Salt Lake City, Utah with Dan's parents. Now we are home. It has been great, but we have so much to catch up on. In the midst of all of this our church pastor decided it was time for him to step down. Last Sunday, he formally resigned. Dan has been named interim pastor, and the deacons met and presented the idea to the church for Dan to be the candidate. Our church family is still in shock. Pastor Zolninger has been here for almost twelve years. He's the only pastor that some in our church have ever known. Change is never an easy process. Unfortunately it comes and goes as it pleases. For now, Dan and I are in the middle. We want what God wants for our lives and what our church people feel is best. For know, we are going round and round in the whirlwind and trying to keep the chaos from spreading.

Abby's 1st Piano Recital

2008-05-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

Abby is so excited to be finally taking piano lessons. She began this fall, and this spring she had her first recital. I am so proud of her. She really enjoys the piano and I believe Rebekah will begin next fall. We shall see. Abby played "Lightly Row" and "Pop Goes the Weasel". She enjoyed the opportunity to be in front of everyone. I love her nod to the crowd and her curtsy.

Sarah's Spring Program

2008-05-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

Sarah had her big debut in a spring program on Tuesday evening. She wasn't so sure she wanted to sing, but she did well after all. My niece Kaitlyn, and my nephews, Jacob and Colton, are also featured.

Fishing

2008-03-28T17:35:00.000-07:00

So my dad and Dan have been fishing for the past couple of days in a church tournament. They are trying to catch largemouth bass. There are several types of bass, but largemouth are the most predominant here in the south. The first day the conditions were tough. Dan and dad were fishing hard, and instead of a largemouth, Dad hooked a twenty nine pound striper. It is quite the fish. I thought I would post a few pics for those of you who don't understand the big fish idea, or that people really do catch fish!

Haircut Day.

2008-03-27T20:25:00.000-07:00

Today, my mom treated the girls to a haircut, including shampoo and blow dry. It was so much fun. It was also Sarah's very first haircut. I can't believe how big they are all getting.

There was a guy and a girl there to cut. Rebekah was determined that no guy was cutting her hair. Sarah was the ham of the day. The staff kept calling her Curious George. The guy just enjoyed Sarah. While he cut Abby's hair, he talked away with her. He did a great job. He was certain he was going to do Sarah. When the lady was free, she offered to take Sarah, and he spoke up to let her know, Sarah was his next cut. Rebekah was thrilled. The older two got the shampoo and conditioning. They so loved it. It was so relaxing to Bekah I thought she was going to fall asleep. The best part of the afternoon was when we were waiting on Bekah's hair to be done. A gentleman came in and he wanted his hair cut short. He had served in the Army and had kept that style. Curious Sarah was up in the chair to watch. As the guy cut the man's hair, he took off all on on side, and he announced he was done. He asked Sarah what she thought, and she just put her hands over her mouth in shock. It was so funny. Enjoy the pics of the girls. They are all so adorable. Of course, I know that I am extremely biased.

A Day at the Park

2008-03-27T20:24:00.000-07:00

We decided the weather was just too nice today; so we all went to the park. It has changed a lot since I was a kid. Funny how the park always seemed so huge as a kid, but now as an adult..not so much. The kids had a blast.

Rebekah's Hives

2008-03-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

It seems that unusual sickness and injury plague my family. Saturday night after being put to bed, Rebekah came down stairs to tell Dan and I that her belly itched. When she lifted her pajama shirt, she had bumps everywhere. They didn't look like true hives. Since I have excema, we thought maybe she was having a break out. This is always a tough time of year for me. We lotioned her and sent her back to bed with the order, "DO NOT SCRATCH!" Sunday morning she got up, and she had hives down her leg. They quickly cleared. Not a big deal at this point. We headed to church Sunday night, and the hives began to reappear. By the time we got home she had hives from head to toe. She was so afraid to tell us because she is terrified of getting a shot from the doctor. Thankfully, after a dose of benedryl, the hives disappeared. The hives stayed missing in action all night and all day without any meds. Once we arrived and got settled here in SC, we took a romp through the clay pit and woods. As soon as we came in and the girls settled down, back came Rebekah's hives. She is too cute in her timid way of letting us know. Again, the hives were quickly gone after the medicine. So today, Rebekah has kept us aware of her hiveless state. She will come right up to us and slightly lift her shirt, and then she asks if we are glad for her. The first time I was caught off guard, and I reminded her that she shouldn't lift her shirt ever. Then, she ever so slightly cut her eyes at me to let me know she was showing me her lack of bumps. Thankfully, we are at the end of the day, and there has been no breakout. Maybe this has passed. Let's hope so.

Welcome to SC

2008-03-25T16:26:00.000-07:00

It is so nice to have a break in the action. We are spending a week with my parents in SC. The girls are having a blast, and Dan and I are enjoying some downtime. One of the girls favorite things to do is to walk through the woods. It brings back tons of memories for me. My brothers and I spent so much time in the woods. One really neat thing is the clay pit that has always been a part of our property. It is a huge pit, and the sides are so beautiful. I remember all the dirt bomb wars my brothers and I used to have. The girls have enjoyed visiting and climbing and throwing dirt clods as well. Only I don't let them throw them at each other as my brothers and I did. I hope to post some more pictures of this area so you can get a real view, but the wall of the pit is in the backdrop of the new profile photo.

Pranked

2008-03-22T06:03:00.001-07:00

I am not a big fan of pranks and practical jokes for many reasons. Often, the joke cause hurt feelings or public humiliation. The worst part is that what goes around comes around. Regardless of all that, we have some jokers on our staff. Dan is a really tough prank job. Last year, one of our fellow HS staffers pranked Dan with a gift. This year, we put our heads together on what to do. It always revolves around his birthday. This year, I supplied the idea. We decided to have some one call staging as a police man or the DMV to tell Dan that his boat had been stolen. I provided all the info for the boat. I knew for Dan to believe it the guy would have to know as many details about the boat as possible. My fellow staffer had her brother in law call Dan. It was during his class; so a voice mail was left. My fellow staffer let me know the call had been made. I had to put on my serious face and pretend I knew nothing. At class break, I had yet to see or hear from Dan. My staffer's fear was that he would so believe it he would leave without telling me. I assured her that he would come to me quickly if he believed it or not. Five minutes into my class, Dan shows up at my door, and he is panic stricken as he has listened to the voicemail and returned the phone call. My students had no clue. We had planned to tell him a former student had stolen the boat. After that was stated, Dan's wheels began to turn. It was sooooooo great to get him. It took probably 30 minutes for Dan's heartbeat to return to normal.

Definitely Good Friday

2008-03-21T19:20:00.000-07:00

Dan and I were so thankful for a day off. We are really looking forward to spring break. I think we are more excited than the kids. Today was so nice. It was definitely made to be a family day. For Sarah's birthday, my parents bought her a co-pilot bike system. It attaches to the back of an adult bike, and Sarah can pedal, but she is pulled along behind. When we head to the greenway, she can't keep up on her little bike (not to mention she hasn't quite mastered the art of brakes). Today, we took the girls. We biked for several miles, and Sarah loved every moment. This will definetly be a repeat event.

I got so tickled. Thankfully, there are a couple water fountains along the way. When we stoppped at the first one, Sarah had to get her drink from all her hard work. She pedaled and pedaled, and when I looked at her to laugh at her hard work, she actually had broken a sweat. It was great. I loved all the looks we got from all the other parents pulling their kids in those big trailers. They all had the wheels turning on why they didn't have one.

Signs of Aging?

2008-03-18T04:43:00.000-07:00

I am not sure whether it is truly a sign of aging or just simply ironic. Dan turned the big 30 on Saturday. He has been fighting a major sinus infection for a few days. I had encouraged him to visit the doctor numerous times. Over the weekend, I was definitely feeling similar pains. I had some spots of question on my throat. Dan encouraged me to visit the doctor to be sure that I didn't have strep. It is going around like crazy here. Of course, I was sure to comment that it was ok for him to send me to the doctor on an iffy basis and for him to still not go. I set up my appointment, and Dan called shortly after and set up one as well, only we were going to be seen together. He was certain that he was fine and there would be no medicine to help him. Poor guy, when the doctor checked his ears, he questioned Dan's hearing due to the amount of fluid. He asked him if he wanted him to clean that up for him. After the doctor was done with the exam, he was telling us that there is a new study in which they determing that antibiotics don't help sinus infections. There were some flaws in the study. Dan was certain this meant no antibiotics for him. He gave me a smirk only for the doctor to inform him that regardless of the study no real doctor would let a two week old sinus infection go untreated. I am sure my smirk was bigger. So here we are both us at the doctor together and both of us with a huge bottles of pills for the next ten days. Which is the greater sign of aging: having a joint doctor's appointment or the huge bottle of antibiotics we are now taking?

The Big 3 - 0

2008-03-15T18:36:00.000-07:00

Today was the day that Dan finally left his 20's. I have been relishing this day far too long. So far his transition has been much smoother than my 30 year. I seemed to have broken 3 bones in less than six months that year. It was a very nice day. It was busy and unfortunately for my early rising husband (NOT!!!) Rebekah had a 9:00 am game. We did our presents at 7:30 this morning because the girls just couldn't hold it in anymore. Thanks to Grammy and Granddad, Dan is now sporting a new Ipod Nano. He is already enjoying it, and he is looking forward to his podcasts. That means many quotes for me in the near future. I am so glad for him. We also got him some fishing stuff, but we won't bother with those details. The highlight of the night was the cake. Abby and Rebekah helped me every step of the way, and I think we were all pleased with our creation. At least we all ate our slice. Abby had two and for Sarah, she ate the frosting and the cake...that is always a news flash for her.

I have been learning some photo software tricks. I created the Dan fishing pose.

Basketball season

2008-02-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

Abby's basketball season came to an end this past Saturday. I am not sure who is more relieved, Abby or us! She did a great job. Her team was really young, and they struggled through the season. They had two wins and four losses. Often, they faced the giants, literally. Compared to her teammates, Abby outsizes them all, but she was outsized often by the opposing teams. Through it all she had a great spirit, and she loved playing. I think we are all glad it is over, and we ended with a win. YAY!

We are all looking forward to indoor soccer season now. A great delight is that Rebekah has decided to play.

Monkey Joes

2008-02-03T12:41:00.000-08:00

Over our Christmas break, my dad took our family to this great place called Monkey Joe's. It was awesome. It is full of all these huge inflatable bounce play areas. Our kids had a huge blast. It will definetly replace the favored trip to Chuck E Cheese. The great thing is that parents can play too. Next time, Dan and I are joining in on the fun as well. I would strongly encourage you to look up Monkey Joe's and visit one if you are near one!

Snow Day

2008-01-17T07:46:00.001-08:00

OK, well, I know it has been forever since I have actually posted anything, but I had some formatting errors that weren't right and I couldnt' fix them so I have actually deleted my blog and started over. What better way to start over than to post pictures of our first snow day of the year. Dan and I were delighted to get up at five and see that it has snowed, and then we were really glad that we could turn off all alarm clocks and wake up with the kids. Of course, since we are all on an early schedule, the girls awoke around six to peek out the window. Somehow Dan was able to encourage them to go back to sleep for a bit. After breakfast we went out for a while. The discouraging part was the rain that began around ten, but we did get about three inches of snow. Maybe the girls will go out again later. Sarah wasn't too sure about it since she had a hard time getting around without slipping. We all had fun. The girls go to see a snow plow in action. I honestly don't think I had ever seen one that was actually plowing the roads. I know that this snow doesn't compare to my dear friend in the North, but indulge me for at least today, please! :)