Life as I know it

Sacrifice.

2009-07-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

Sacrifice. I have pondered that word lately. I think that I am or I guess really I feel guilty for asking my family to. I think that we should be traveling and doing things and right now we can't. So is that really a sacrifice? No it is not. But in my tiny little mind it is. Why is seeing the big picture so hard? Why can't I not focus on the big picture and just enjoy the moment. Thinking that I am giving up this or that. Really? I live in a beautiful house. I have a car which means I don't have to walk. I have running water and and washing machine and a dishwasher. Man I really have it rough. I truly want to not be so selfish. Put thinking about my self is selfish. Wow. Last night we visited the Springville church and Burt shared about how to reach the community there. And it was so good to hear because I really just want to feed the "poor" at Christmas and Thanksgiving but I sure don't want to sacrifice my time and be their friend. That would reflect way to much on my own selfishness. And yet I think that is what I really need. I don't want to walk into ever situation and wonder what can I get out of and how does it make me look to others. I want to just be there for someone. I have seen it at CPC and it is so the way it is supposed to be. And it is what people need. They need that relationship with someone and ultimately with Christ. So I may not get to do all that the world says is important and I want my life to be what Christ wants it to be not what I think He wants it to be.

Change.

2009-07-16T10:12:00.000-07:00

It is raining. Love it. The kids are doing some math. Why is it so hard to keep them focused. I have been doing pretty good this summer making them practice. Not everyday but at least a couple times a week. Otherwise we have been having a really great summer. And they for the most part don't mind doing the little bit of work I have asked them to do.

Changing. Do you ever feel a change in yourself. Most of the time we don't notice but lately I have noticed. A good change I think. I see my sin more and others less. I think the love of Christ gives you tolerance that me as Heather does not have at all. I am so grateful for Christ and never understood as much as I do lately. And that is what makes you want to share it with others not for the you are a member of a church part but to know that love and know that He loves you endlessly.

Chang.I am very excited about working at the MDO starting in August. Fun times and I love the little guys they are so fun.

Change. I am not a mother of a baby anymore. My little guy turns 7 next month. I am somewhat middle aged. Yikes. But knowing that chapter of my life is over makes me more happy then sad. I mean I am still a mother I just don't have to change diapers. Except at work now so it all evens out.

Changing, when I will apply and start nursing school it will be fall 2010. It will help to get the other classes out of the way because the nursing classes are 8, 5, and 6 credit hours. Time and money.

I used to always fear change now I don't change is growth. And growth is good.

Fast

2009-06-25T11:54:00.000-07:00

How does a week go so fast? How does time just whiz by. My baby will be 7 in August. Wowness time is so amazing. And sometimes I want it to speed up but most of the time I want it to slow and let me catch my breath. Like with my school, I have been plugging away for almost 2 years now. It feels like forever and the it feels like I just started. I am so lucky to get to pursue this dream that I have had since I has 18. Now I am ever closer to achieving it. We have been in Moodyville almost 2 and 1/2 years and it seems like we have been here forever. I miss Wednesday nights at church. Time can speed up now I am ready for them to start back up again. But I am always glad for the break when they end for a while. So it is good to get to miss them. I pray for Ginger that time will fly and support raising will be over. I pray for time to stop so my friend will not leave me. I pray that I can remember to be thankful for the time that God gives us here on this earth so that we can be overjoyed when we get eternal time in heaven.

Humbledr

2009-06-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

So I like to think that I look and act my age. My mom would say they I have "acted" 40 since I was 10. Not in a arrogant way but she has an old soul way. So now that I am every closer to the actual 40 I am okay with it. All that to say that in my lab class the other night one of the other students wanted to ask me a question, and brace yourself, she called me mam. Really I clutched my heart and said "oh that hurt" and she said "sorry mam" wow humbled just a little. So I guess what my Paw Paw said was true you look in the mirror and wonder who that old person looking at you is. I am really okay with it, a wise woman (Kim Hill) once said the only other alternative to growing old is being dead. I like alive better.

Not since April?

2009-06-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, I haven't blogged since April. Facebook is just so much quicker. But I felt like blogging so here goes.

My oldest baby, Zachary, got baptized Sunday, joined the church and had his first communion. Awesomeness. So what goes through your mind when your precious baby gives his heart to Jesus. For me I was humbled, really and truly more than I can ever remember being humbled. God the creator of the universe choose me and then choose my son. Then the next thought was that He sent His Son to die so that my son could have eternal life. It brings tears to my eyes every time I think about it. It makes me feel joy that other than at Zach's birth I haven't felt. Because now I know that Zach has eternal life and that His savior choose him. There are really no words that can truly describe this wonderful moment. I am humbled by it.

So that was a bit heavy and rightly so. Now on to summer plans. School for me of course. Microbiology, which I love saying that to people. They groan when I say it like it is some form of torture. I really like the class, so far this teacher is the best right off the bat. She is nice and friendly helpful you know like a teacher. Crazy I know.

The kids are home and I think he have found our groove of being together all the time. It is fun not having to get up and get to school. But it really gets me going and I like that. I have been a little lazy but I know that summer will be over before I know it.

Talked to my bestest friend Angie today. I miss her but am so glad we make the effort to keep in touch. I love facebook for that reason. But a nice long girl chat is nice too. We may get to go down to the beach for a weekend and hang out. I am so excited. I hope we get to.

Well toddles for now, hopefully it want be this long in between blogs next time.

Should be doing other things.

2009-04-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

I really should be doing other things. Like laundry I would be further along if I had realized the dry was empty and did not need to be fluffed 3 times. Anyway Eric woke up this morning throwing up on my bedroom floor. Nice. I then start screaming at him to run to the bathroom because he just stands there telling me he needs to throw up while throwing up. Lovely. Usually he is good about going to the bathroom but he later told me he thought he was dreaming and he was at the beach? Really. I guess he had to much "fun" at spring break with his phrat brothers.Crazy. So got all that cleaned up and tried to sleep a little more. Wonderful. I do love being a mom. Actually it is nice having him home today. He feels fine now and is watching tv.

Last week was my spring break. I had a long list of things I needed/wanted to do. I decide to relax instead. I am glad I did but I am now making a mental list of things I am going to do and the end of the quarter. I really want to paint my kitchen. The builders used flat and you can't wash it. Smart. So I am going to do that for sure. I also want to go to the beach sometime this summer I love the beach. The husband (he loves when I call him that) doesn't really like the beach. Sad. But he will go with me and the kids have not been in a really long time. I need a cheap but clean place to stay. Does anybody know of some place? Anyway maybe will go maybe not. Hoping.

So the dry just stopped and it had laundry in it this time. Going.

School and a girl trip.

2009-03-11T08:32:00.000-07:00

I am wondering if anyone will read this but I guess I feel at little like blogging. School is good. It is a lot and I think I am way ready for Spring Break. And really ready for this quarter to be over. Which it will be soon enough and the one more class this summer and I will be ready to apply to start nursing school. And then who knows. Time is always moving forward and no matter what happens I have learned to be happy with were I am at instead of always think I will only be happy when I get there.

Girl trip this past weekend. To much fun. The movie was good and even if I had not been lured with time away and hangin with two of my bestest friends. I would have watched the whole movie. It was funny and sad and different. Rob can act and I enjoyed it. It was a little sad though. I hugged both my boys when I got home and let them know how much I loved them. The mom in the movie was very cold. I don't ever want to be like that. In fact I don't think that I could.

So off to study and try to figure out my math. It is so so so hard right now. I really don't care how much liquid will fit in a box. I just think things like, what kind of box is it? Is it a cardboard box because that would just make a mess. Is it a pretty box? Can I decorate it if it is not pretty. These thought do not help me to actually learn how to convert the numbers and greatly interferes with my ability to pass the test I have next week. Math is yucky.

Oscar night

2009-02-23T14:02:00.000-08:00

Darrin does not like the Oscar's. He thinks it is just a lot of egomaniacs stroking their ego's. And he is basically right. But I really like the pretty dresses and the pretty people. But the last few years I have not seen any of the movies some I would want to some not so much. It is about having time to and I usually don't.

So let me say that watching it with a bunch of girlfriends was to much fun. We laughed we cried (Val Kilmer is real heavy and I did tear up a little at a picture of him) But mostly we laughed it was super fun. I ate way to much and found out that Ginger and Whitney are very prissy and don't think a girl should burp. Sorry ladies for offending you so greatly. But really it was just plain old fun. I am a little bit sleepy today since I didn't get home until 12 ish, but it was well worth it.

Other than that school is good a little harder this time having two classes and Quizzes in Bio every week. I have been challenged and I am having to learn to not be a perfectionist and do the best I can. The balance of life and school is getting easier and I hope preparing me for the day I actually work outside the home. Will see. So ta ta for now.

Progress

2009-02-04T14:53:00.000-08:00

I have decided I am a big whiny baby sometimes, okay most of the time. I have decided that I am going to enjoy school and not freaky out about the whole need an A thing to get into nursing. I mean I have been losing sleep over it. It will be what it will be. And in doing so it freed me up to just enjoy the process a little more and stop trying to make it happen.

I miss hang out at the park with friends. Cold weather go away. Please. I need sunny and warmth. Need shorts, okay capris I am getting a little to old for shorts. Unless they are of course travel shorts. (thanks Kim Hill for that piece of fashion advice.)

Looking forward to the 25th b-day party. Yeah talent show. Last year was out first show and it was way fun.

Off to church. Yeah.

Later.

My Kingdom

2009-01-29T13:33:00.000-08:00

Kingdom building was the topic of Wednesday night class. I really like building my own kingdom. But I am really not good at it. I mean I think I am for a little while then it all comes crashing down around my ears, and I realize I need Jesus so much. Then it all starts over again. The I realize that the crashing is okay because I need it to point me back to the cross. So that helps me not get as frustrated with myself. I am glad I find comfort in that and it makes me so grateful for grace.

School is a frustrating thing right now I love going and I am so grateful I am going, but it is a lot a effort and I am trying to not let it dictated my moods. Whether I am happy or sad and sometimes I am able to not let it sometimes it gets away from me. I really want to glorify God through it and learn so I am trying. Staying or quiting is a constant battle right now staying is wining but quiting is always there. Maybe by the time I apply to the nursing program and actually get in will help.

So we are going out of town this weekend so have a good weekend.

2009-01-24T14:46:00.000-08:00

Life is good lately and busy of course. School is good and after my initial panic that I always get in the being that I can't do this it is just to hard, I am getting my groove and getting a feel for my teachers.

Went with Crissy today do a women's conference in Jasper. So I really went to hang out with Crissy but God had other plan's. I mean I did get to hang out but it was a really good seminar about mercy ministry's. I learned a lot and I am thinking over what I have learned. Good stuff.

So not much else going on just needed to say hey. Hey. Hollar. Later peeps.

Thoughts lately .....

2009-01-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Love is not easy. Being at a mission based church at first was hard. Knowing that you well love someone and then they well leave. I guess to love them enough to let them is the hard part. Still not my favorite. But I have come to realize that being part of the Kingdom does not mean my kingdom but God' s and that part is really wonderful. So the thought is to be encouraging and not to doubt God's plan.

School is fun. I think that I would have been horrible nerdy in school if I would have known how much fun it was. So I think I will just be a nerd now. Thank you Ginger for pointing my nerdiness out.

I think that I am glad I didn't make in concrete resolutions this year. I think they are like trying to keep the law you just can't. I like grace much more better.

Fear is something I never knew I struggled with until I learned to see my own sin more. Because fear is just unbelief. Not trusting God that He will take care of all things. My struggle with Zachary lately is really not him because he really is a great well rounded kid, it is my fear that I have messed up and that I have not prepared him enough to be independent of me. God will take care of him and I just need to pray and trust God. I will not be afraid. Okay I will try not to be afraid.

I think I would like 4 to 5 days on the beach this summer. That would be awesome. I love the beach it is my favorite. I know you envy my tan, don't hate. It is ironic that the palest person likes the beach so much but I do. I think it is because my Paw Paw took me ever year when I was young, good memories.

I think that 12 degrees is to cold and that I do not want to hear about global warming anymore. Have you noticed that they call it climate change now that it is not so warm. Media. Blah-blah-blah.

I think I will now go do laundry always need to do laundry.

Here we go.

2009-01-05T09:33:00.001-08:00

Life goes so fast and I know when young people hear us old people say that they groan. But really life just flies by. Christmas has come and going again, and the New Year is upon us. I am trying to savor time a little more because I know it will be summer before long and another season will have past.

Time has been well spent this holiday break my honey has been off for two weeks and went back to work today. Other than a little traveling for the holidays we stayed home. It was really wonderful we got a lot of things done and we got a lot of lounging in too.

The kids go back to school tomorrow and they are vegging out today to make sure they are well rested. I think the other days of lounging just weren't enough. They have been pretending they were dogs this morning that are detectives. I know these funny times will not last forever but for now they are priceless.

So I hope we have a wonderful 2009.

Christmas Eve.

2008-12-24T08:18:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas. We are going to the Christmas Eve service tonight for the first time since we have been here. We are usually out of town. It has been so nice to be home and just hang out with my boys. Darrin has been off and that is so nice. I just want to say thanks to my mom for buying the nerf guns really, really enjoy being shot at while unaware. And love the shot in the bum when I am trying to get away from being shot. And that Darrin has enjoyed the guns as much as the children. Again thanks mom.

Went to Walmart yesterday with Ginger really what were we thinking. But it was not so bad because we did not want to rush home so time was ours to kill. And the wait in line helped with that. People are so fun at Christmas and their joy shows on their faces when at the Walmart. Joy and peace rained down. I had many beautiful Christmas moments at the Walmart. Happy. Also for the first time in my life ate a banana while in the store I got a little light head and had to sit on the floor and eat the banana people looked at me a little funny but my blood sugar was a little low and I needed the banana. Don't judge me to harshly.

So my mother-in-law is coming up on Christmas day, I am cooking, Just saying. Then she will take the kids with her for a few days then they are going to spend a few days with my mom. Alone at last with my man. Fun times. Need some ideas of something fun to do in the big city while they are gone. Any suggestions?

Well Merry Christmas to all and to all a wondrous New Year.

Lately.....

2008-12-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

I finished my class today and I really want to check to see if my grade is in but that would be crazy I just finished like and hour or so ago. But very glad to check that class off my list and move on to the next one. I have learned to trust my self and keep going and that I am pretty smart and I hope I can make sure my kids know how smart they are so they can pursue college a little younger then I did. But I do know that this is the best time for me to do this and I am ever so grateful and I think appreciate it so much now.

So do you every feel like you are not growing and then all of the sudden you feel like you are growing and you wonder if it shows. But since I am growing I don't really need to know if it shows or not because I feel it. I am happy and I hope more patient. Also less anger and maybe a little more understanding of others. I never saw myself as judgemental but I really was on the inside and the more I see my own sin the less I look at others because I understand the struggle we all have. I am just so grateful that Jesus did what He did it is so wonderful.

Things I am looking forward to now that I have 3 weeks off.

1. Knitting when ever I want to.

2.Not studying (although my teacher told me what our first 2 chapters are for my next class but I will not read them until the week before I go back.)

3.Baking all my favorite Christmas foods.

4. Relaxing.

5. Reading a book (sorry I don't have time for Twilight) just for fun.

6. Seeing my family.

7.Christmas Eve at church (what day is that on? that is what I thought when I saw the church sign because they always put the date. I get a little confused sometimes).

8. Being with my boys for 3 weeks and not having to get up and get ready. See # 4.

9. Being with my husband who will be off a lot because he said he would.

10. The kids going to my Mom's for a few days after Christmas. See # 9 Fun times.

Blogging about facebook?

2008-12-10T07:50:00.000-08:00

So facebook is fun and I haven't blogged in a while because I like facebook. So it rained last night the creek at the park was really full. Missy I had a super, fabulous time last night. To fun. I am so glad you did it, good times. I really need to study and am ready to not have that hovering thought, at least not for 3 weeks until spring semester starts. Thanks for putting up with me talking about it I can fixate a little bit. I try not to but it is a little consuming. Anyway I can't wait until next week and baking and doing crafty Christmas things with the kids. To much fun. And Christmas with the family and Advent at church. I think I need an Advent class because I really think that I don't fully get it. I have never had Advent. Anyway maybe somebody has a book that explains it and how it started. I like purple so it is really pretty. I really like the Elf movie I need to watch again. I love all the Elf flair. I in fact love flair it captures a thought really well. Once again blogging about facebook sorry. I need some sunshine I don't like it when it is so dark and blah outside. I am glad that it is not quiet so cold. Feeling a little crazy I just read over what I wrote. I guess I will leave it and not try to make it pretty and eloquent not that I could. Tah Tah for now.

I can't beleive it.

2008-12-04T09:13:00.000-08:00

Zachary turned 10 yesterday he was very excited about turning 2 digits. Time goes by so fast. Here are a few pic's he is having a friend over this weekend that was all he wanted so easy. He also would not let me bring anything up to school he would have been sooo embarrassed to have his Mom come up there. Again I am okay with that so easy. Also getting a 10 year old to look serious in a picture next to impossible. Happy Birthday Zachary!!!

Thanksgiving can start.

2008-11-26T10:38:00.000-08:00

So I saw the movie last night and it was good. I still don't fully get it but okay Edward is dreamy, and fun and really protective. And it was good.

Moving on won't you join me. We just got to Mom's house. The boys have left for a hike and I am thinking about a nap. I think my mom's house makes me sleepy. I always feel like taking a nap here. She is making lunch/supper so called it lupper if you like. Then some TV. It can be very relaxing here. I love not having to cook and enjoying good food is always great.

So I think I will eat some and sleepy some and repeat it all over again tomorrow. Later. Do vampires have a catchy goodbye phrase? I would like to use it if there is one.

And so it begins.

2008-11-25T14:22:00.000-08:00

They are calling me the vampires. (Mom this is funny I will explain in detail when I see you) They are speaking through my friends, sometimes a whisper , sometimes a yell. Sometimes I ........
just hear them and want to know them better. I'm scared!! I know they are sweet vampires and in return for my soul I will live for eternity with Edward (said in a dream voice and a far away look in.........
my eye). The Cullen family is supposed to be so wonderful and I think they will like me and accept
me. I think it is the right thing to do but I am conflicted and worried that I might be making the......
wrong choice. I must go now and fix dinner it maybe the last time for a while because once it
starts ........everything else must stop. Should I go tonight, should I? I think I must the voice are getting louder. (I just talked to Ginger)

Reallyto excited!!!

2008-11-19T14:27:00.000-08:00

Really I am out of school until a week from Monday!!! I am to happy although I have a huge test the day I get back I think I am pretty ready for it just some major reviewing in my future. Right now I am blogging and giving each kid a practice spelling test. Can you say multi-tasking. Really I just want it over with as soon as possible I am so not in the mood. I think I need apple-cider vinegar, I think it well cure me I am not really sick but I think it will pep me up and make me super skinny. And maybe skipping Thanksgiving would help. I love the holidays but I really like to eat to much. I need to start running again but I really don't like it to much all that bouncing and such. But I think I need to and get the weights out, the kids lost one which makes me a little crazy. It takes to long with just one. Anyway off tho church in a little bit. Zachary is taking the catechism class in January and one of us has to go with him which I am super excited about I need to learn it to. I think I may have a little to much caffeine I feel all wired and squirrely.

See my peeps later. I have to jet.

2008-11-17T10:57:00.000-08:00

So had a great weekend and I am wondering if this is what getting old feels like. I have been a little tired lately, I mean I normal only need a little sleep and I am good. I enjoy a nap when I can, but I can not seem to catch up this days. Oh well maybe it is that I have a little cold and and have been going a little to much. But whatever the cause I wonder if this is a glimpse of oldness.

So glad I got to see Kim this weekend and her friend Diane. Does she blog? She should I enjoyed her company very much. I so wanted to go out to Pagie's Sat. but the tiredness thing won and I could only lay on the couch and watch tv. And since I try not to blog about it to much Roll Tide. I have been a big fan all my days and it is nice to have a good season. Hope it all goes well to the end.

School is good just one more test then the final. I am all signed up for Spring classes Bio 202 and Math 116. This is my first time taking 2 class at once but now that I have learned how to study I think I will do okay. I should be ready to apply to the nursing program by Spring of next year. I hope to get about 4 more general courses out of the way first. Because I could actually apply for Fall next year but it will be much easier this way. The biggest thing I have learned is to be patient I don't like to be patient. (Picture me stopping my feet and clenching my fist) I want it now. But I will just have to wait and do the smart thing instead of the fast thing. So I really should be studying but I can't seem to motivate myself lately I work better when I am under pressure and we have fall break before we have our next test so maybe later this week I will feel more pressure, maybe not.

I think I will veggie until I have to go get the kids. Peace Out. Hollar

2008-11-11T09:36:00.001-08:00

Yearbook to much fun. the scare part is the big hair ones are alot like my senior pictures.

I tried.

2008-11-05T13:28:00.000-08:00

I so wanted to vote yesterday but alas I didn't have 3 hours yesterday to do it. Well I could have in the morning but I had hope that the line would lessen it did not. So I thought it would probably turn out the way it did. So no real surprise. Anyway life goes on and I think that it was historical and wild and I really love our country where the people are heard and things always swing back in forth between both parties and nothing really changes.

Changing topics. I have been getting really bad leg cramps and don't know why. Any suggestions?

Christmas music already? Really? My kids asked why isn't there Thanksgiving music. So maybe the songs would be like. Eating Pie, Oh My or I Love Turkey Yes I Do. But alas we don't. I like the word alas it makes me sound so smarticus.

Anyway one last Lab test and one last Lecture test and then a final. I now understand Spring break I never did before not the whole drinking like crazy but the whole laying on the beach and resting thing.

I need to bake cookies. I can't wait to do that too. And sweet potato bread. Love it.

Eric's Birthday

2008-10-27T10:51:00.001-07:00

River living

2008-10-25T08:55:00.000-07:00

Greetings from the river. The boys and I came down to see Mom and visit this weekend. They got out of school at noon on Friday and are out of school Monday so it worked out to be a good weekend to come. The boys and my step-dad, Riley, are out on a hike their favorite part about coming here. And the fact that my Mom always fries something. Today it is pork chops and let me say she fries up a mean pork chop. Also on the menu Au Gratin potatoes and lima beans. I love my Mama's cooking. Also I love I don't have to cook. It is so wonderful. This morning slept till 7:30 then ate and watched tv then the boys left for their hike and I layed back down. Kinda rested but not really sleep but laying there was wonderful.

So the agenda for today.
1. Eat fried pork chops.
2. I am thinking a nap after that pork chops make me sleepy.
3. Watch Alabama play Tennessee Roll Tide!!
4. Stay up late and watch tv.
5. Sleep some more.
6. Oh and eat cake my mom also made a cake. I will fit that in between naps and bedtime. Oh if only I knew when, my schedule is so full.
7. Miss Darrin. He had to stay home and work.
8. I think I will go I need a snack.

Random

2008-10-21T06:49:00.000-07:00

Its cold. I am such a crazy self-centered person I really need to retire in Florida because I like 75 and sunny. I don't care for 42 in the morning. I have such a hard time getting up when it is dark and cold. I know, I know I long for fall and winter but I feel my oldness creeping up because I need a sweater to go to the store.

School is good I had a big test yesterday and now have a little break before I have to learn all the muscles in the body. Really do I need to know all of them? Just a few would surely be enough. I mean I am not going to be a doctor for Pete's sake.

Why do children think eye drops burn? They don't they are just cold. Eric's eye was a little red this morning so I put a few drops in. You would think I was putting acid in his eye. Okay just had the thought I should probably work on my bedside manner. Can I tell a patient to just man up and quit whining.

I am all alone the kids are at school and the dog went to get a haircut. I haven't taken him in forever and he really needed it. But it is so quite here without anybody.

I miss Darrin he has been working so much and well I miss him. Hopefully once the airport is done he will have some time.

Went to Ginger's last week and Melissa came over. Let me say the kids did great but man 3 year olds make a lot of noise and demand so mush attention. They just don't understand leave us be we are talking. How fast we get used to where we are at but I don't want to because I want to be a Grandmother who enjoys the loud and craziness of kids.

Thinking about going to mom's this weekend.Pretty sure me and the boys are going to. We haven't seen her since August and the boys are very excited about seeing her.

Plans for today.
1.Do laundry really that is everyday but I am going to mom's so everything must be washed!!
2. Study really it is my life and for the most part I love it,
3. Try to eat better today have not been doing very good with this lately.
4. GO walk. okay already did this but I like to put one thing on the list I can instantly check off.
5. Relax a little nobody's here so I can.

Farm, Retreat, and School

2008-10-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

First its 85 I know others have blogged about it but really, 85 I want to wear a sweater!! NOW!! Okay I just watched Fred on Crissy blog so I had to whiny. So last week was busy Paige and I went up to school and made a pumpkin arch for Eric's class room. Then study, study, study I am about half-way through this semester and can't wait to be done. I am still maintaining my A average but I had a big lab test Monday and I think I did okay but it was hard.

Friday I went on a field trip with Eric to Old Baker's Farm, seen one pumpkin patch you've seen them all. But it was fun and well done and I got a pumpkin and Eric did too.

Also the ladies retreat was this weekend and we had a great time. It was about beginning a help-mate to your husband. It was also about our role in church and I needed to hear it. I think sometimes I forget that I needed to learn how to be apart of the body. So what I learned this weekend is that I am a pretty good help-mate and of course can always improve. But I think I am somewhat at a lost as to what my role at church is. So I am going to pray with intention and ask God to show me. Which is scary because I know He will answer me and what if I don't know how to do what He ask me.

Sunday.

2008-09-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

I love Sunday I remember when church used to feel like a chore and now I just love going and being in the fellowship with the Lord. The boys were just outside playing football that lasted about 5 minutes. Something about mosquitoes? Really? Anyway I have gotten a lot done this weekend. Darrin had to work all weekend poor fella. He has only taken off like 2 days this year so he promised I will be sick of him soon, he is taking off every Friday in December and the week of Christmas and the week of Thanksgiving. I don't think I will but you never know.

Yesterday the boys and I went to the Leeds park and collected leaves and pine combs and what ever they like that was fall like. And I made a fall decoration for the coffee table. We had a great time. I love fall.

Well once again I must go study and I am having a better attitude about it. I have a vocabulary quiz tomorrow.

Life chioces.

2008-09-26T08:27:00.001-07:00

So maybe you know know how much I struggle with decision. Like staying in school, I like and am doing fairly well so what is the problem? I was walking at the park this morning and I realized that I first don't trust God to take care of me and my family and second I feel selfish for doing it. I mean it is not cheap but worth it in the long run. That all sounds good but is it right? I mean it tell me is it? I have been known to make a decision just to make one because not making it drives me crazy. Right or wrong is sometimes not even a factor. Just need to stop the endless going over it in my head. I have to make it stop. So I vow to go with the flow follow what I have always wanted and be a nurse. Their that felt better. Do you think it was the right choice? I doubt already, so maybe the doubt is my struggle and not my choice because God is in control no matter what I do so surrendering to that control is what I need to do. Right? Right. Paige said something yesterday that made me think she said you just want to do something right (thanks for listening) and yes but I really am starting to believe that something is nursing I am just impatient and doubt that I can do it. So I am going to stay the course and follow my heart and not give up on myself or God. I just needed to vent.

Kids.

2008-09-24T05:30:00.000-07:00

Eric was sick yesterday. Stomach thing, vomiting. Yeah. So he was doing good then about 5:00p.m. the other part of the stomach virus started. Yeah. So he is home today again. Zachary wakes up this morning with a flaming red eye, pink eye is to mild of a description. Yeah. So he is home too. Which is really not bad I like having them home but I have school today so my sweet understanding husband went in really early so he could come home and watch Eric he doesn't know about Zachary yet. So I hope this is them building up their immunity and getting ready for winter. Will see. Here's hoping I have built up my immunity and don't need any help with that, thank you very much. No car line today that makes me smile. Later.

Funniest husband in the world and a 104.

2008-09-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

So my husband is so funny. I was so surprised by what he did and he enjoyed getting me. So I think he may have a future in comedy. Who knew? Okay I did know he really is very funny.

So I spent all weekend studying for a test I had today. I think I did okay it was pretty hard. But on a crazy note I made a 104 on my lab. test. That is not a type-o a 104 I really can't believe it. If you would have asked me I would have thought I got a C maybe but I only missed 1 and she gave out points( she used a big word like that started with an s?) so I maybe a little full off myself until Wednesday when I get my next test back. But until then I am off to learn the names of the bones in your head. Really I though there was just one the skull but it turns out there are a lot more. Are you scared I maybe your nurse one day? I am. Well see I hope I can remember everything I need to remember.

It came last night!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-19T18:29:00.001-07:00

Tragedy, Grief and Sorrow have covered the Nold house as the unthinkable has happened. I have used my excellent hacking ability(along with the knowledge of my wife Heather's password) to post this sad story to all of her loyal readers.

As many of you may know from her recent blog posts. Zachary brought home a pet crab earlier this week and Heather is deathly afraid of it as well as birds and bugs and bats and rats and cats. OK, she is not afraid of cats but she is allergic to them. I had insisted it would be safe to stay at home despite Heather's constant well vocalized fear since Zachary had brought home his pet “Mr. Crab”.

I WAS IN ERROR!!! Last night was the longest and most horrific night of our lives. At approximately 2 AM the now GINORMOUS(her favorite word) fiddler crab broke through our locked bedroom door. I had neglected to purchase solid-core wood doors and deadbolts for the interior of our house, again my bad. Anyway as some of you know I am a runner. NOT a fast runner but I am much faster than Heather when attacked by a mutated fiddler crab. Once the onslaught began I dashed to the boy's rooms with Heather close behind me, I then scooped them up as if they were still infants and fled out of a rear window. It was only when I got outside that I realized that she was not behind us. Being prudent (and not wanting to orphan our children) I fled jumping into my jeep. I drove away as I called 911. They dispatched first responders to deal with the monster crab.

Once the crack (as in expert) St. Clair county SWAT team had subdued it with non life-threatening force, it is a living creature and my son’s pet after all. The Moody FD used the jaws of life to remove the humongous thing's oddly and still proportionately over-sized claw from Heather's neck. Nearly lifeless she was flown to UAB. A team of highly skilled local surgeons was prepared to do the life saving repairs of the wound s to her neck. They would be assisted by world class surgeons from the Mayo Clinic, Mercy General and Caesar’s Palace who had been flown in at the request of the Governor. We do know people who know people, but I digress. The surgery was touch and go until by surprise that dashing Dr. Patrick Dempsey from TV’s Grey’s Anatomy evidently in town for some barbeque stopped by and saved the day. I am sure she would have preferred George Clooney but beggars can’t be choosers.

I am sure you will be glad to know that Heather has recovered quite quickly and should be walking around a couple of minutes. The only thing that you may notice is she will be wearing a lot of turtle necks. But with this cooler weather she probably would have anyway.

One final note:

The CDC has ran a quick test and apparently fiddler crabs can mutate in to monsters when exposed to a single droplet of gross pig preserving formaldehyde accidentally flung onto dried plankton. I recall noticing last week that Heather’s laboratory safety glasses were right by Mr. Crab’s food supply.

It could happen, right?

Oh and I change her password. ;-)

P.S. I hate to report that early this morning Mr. Crab was found dead. Officials have yet to determine if it was related to the force used to subdue it earlier today.

Could it have been murder? Only time may tell.

The crab is here.

2008-09-18T09:44:00.001-07:00

The crab is here. It has one giant claw and one little claw. Why? It looks so weird. I don't think I will sleep well tonight I just realized our doors are a little raised up he can get me even if I close the door!!!

Test, Book Fair and a Crab.

2008-09-18T09:44:00.000-07:00

So I have not blogged in awhile. I haven't felt very bloggy lately. Anyhoo school is ok. I took my first big test Monday and my next one is this Monday. The main thing I am learning lately(with God's patience and love of course) is that I have to learn to be happy where I am right now. Not happy once I get this, or that or when this finally happens. Because finding contentment is not about making a list and checking things off and saying now I am truly fulfilled and totally satisfied. The realization that obtaining the goal is not the happiness. It is trusting God no matter where I am and finding my happiness in Him. So I find great peace in that. God doesn't have a check list for me He loves me right now all the time and always will.

I also find that I lack a certain motivation. I think it is a genetic mutation (no offense Mom) but I just can't seem to find a lot of reason to do things. I realize as well that I work better under a deadline. I need a fire burning at my feet so that I can get done.

I helped at Zachary's school Tuesday and Wednesday at the book fair. Not to much fun but I did get to see Zachary's teacher in the hall and somewhat connect a little. I need to feel connected but he is in a big boy school and I have limited involvement with his classroom so I am helping at the school and hope that a least makes me feel better and more connected.

Also say a little prayer for me Zachary is bring home a crab from his class room today. I am slightly terrified. I DO NOT like wild animals. That scare me a lot and so I am trying to be a great Mom and let him bring it home but I hope it does not escape and attack me. What if it crawls on me while I sleep!!!! I mean it could pinch me really hard. Sorry I needed to whinny a little thanks for letting me.

I also asked Zachary what he was going to name the crab. He said we should do that as a family. So pray the thing doesn't die, or maybe pray it does. I know that was a little selfish. Wild animals you know.

Well I am off to study. I know you are shocked I mean I don't have a deadline the test is not until Monday. I thought I would try something novel and get a head start.

Tuna and Mayo. Thick white mayo. That was just for you Missy.

Makes sense.

2008-09-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

So I finally feel like my school is making sense and then them bring up atoms and protons and electrons. Some are positive some are negative blah, blah not interested at all. But I will figure it out and learn it but I want be to happy about it. Eric had Grandparents day at school today (thanks Hallmark for coming up with that one) Nancy (Darrin's mother) came up and it was very sweet probably a little to much pressure for the teacher and room mom (thanks Paige there was so not enough food, just kidding old people have to worry about their blood sugar they don't eat much). Anyhoo it was really sweet and Eric loved showing off his room. He made something for Nancy and Gingey,(I will bring it when we come down Mom).

Why is it still so hot? Can not wait to feel the cool winds of Fall.

I read the bible today, I know hold your applause, but this new bible study is very good and I read the next thing on the verses list. It was very good. God's glory is awesome and John 16 is really neat how Jesus shares His glory with us. Much enjoyed.

Well I guess I am off to study and help the kids with homework.

Labor day, Pigs, and kids.

2008-09-04T06:54:00.000-07:00

So been way busy lately with school and family. We had a great, lazy weekend it was nice to just lay around and relax. But Tuesday was here before I knew it. I had my first vocabulary quiz yesterday and I think I did really well on it at least I hope so. I also got to dissect a pig that was fun just a little funky smelling. But seeing the inside of the parts that we are having to remember is helpful. We have a lab test in two weeks and the little pigs stay in the bucket till then can't imagine they will smell any better in two weeks.

Still undecided about changing my major I think to much and normally have to make a decision within 48 hours or I go crazy, but I am trying a new approach and just letting the indecision linger in my mind. Very hard to do, maybe I am growing in my patience. Doubtful.

I am really enjoying the Wednesday night class about God's glory. It is pretty awesome. I struggle with reading the bible but it really makes me want to because I can see is glory more in the bible than anywhere else.

Zachary is having a hardish time adjusting to school and to remember to bring books home. Not just some books any books. He feels pressure really easily. I see more and more that he is like Darrin in all the wonderful ways like his kind heart and loving nature, but also he is not very organized(the way I think he should so I have to let him find his way and just be helpful) and the ringing bell is just way to much pressure when he is packing up. I am learning through him that it takes him a while to get something and he said last night that " I guess I know that a bomb is not going to go off when the other bell rings so I can take my time a load up my things." That was helpfully to me to understand him better. Mothering changes so much as they get older I always thought that it would get easier but it doesn't the emotional side of it is very challenging, but rewarding all the same. And having Darrin to understand him is priceless. I just have to learn to step back and let Darrin calm me down and not fixate on the little things but see the big picture and that we are shaping a human not just a student.

Well I need to go study my pig parts and human parts. Biology is so fun.

Lazy Day.

2008-08-26T13:17:00.000-07:00

So I did not really do anything today. I don't know if I liked it very much. I try to make myself enjoy the kids being gone and I know that with in the next 2 years I will be working and should enjoy it and I kinda did. Luckily I will have a chance to practice more. School is going well the boys are both still enjoying it. I miss them but it is all going great. Eric loves it beyond measure. Zachary is okay with it they are doing more interesting things this week so I think he likes it more. My school is going well I dropped my math class so I could concentrate on biology. It is alot of work and I need an A to apply to nursing. On that note I am considering going into Radiology. It is an Associate Degree and it is a specialized field and that interests me. I have to set up some observation in a radiology department as a prerequisite to taking Radiology so I am hoping that will help me with my decision. I think that it would be fun and a little easier and it want take as long to get my degree. Will see. I wish the rain would stop I went to go walking this morning and it was misty and muggy so I just went to vote, go Joe Lee, and came back home. So glad I have class tomorrow and will get up and do something productive. Later.

Rainy.

2008-08-24T16:05:00.001-07:00

I love the rain we have enjoyed it so much this weekend relaxing with each other was much needed.

The Olympics have been very enjoyable lately and I had a few observations.

1. The Olympics is where a big girl can shine. Water Polo girls, Shot put girls, Volleyball girls etc....

2. I want to be a girl who needs 10,000 calories for "training".

3. Rhythmic gymnastics I don't get it. It' a hula hoop, and a ribbon for goodness sake.

4. The swimming was awesome. Also a place for big girls.

5. The diving people need to eat more the Chinese girls look absolutely to skinny. But they sure don't make much splash.

6. Why are they on so late and why must I stay up to watch.

7. Prelim, semi-finals really just skip to the real race.

8. Let the swimmers fix their hair this is the biggest moment of their life and they have wet hair.

9. Why are the outfits so little. The speedo business is only around because of diving. And the beach volleyball really a bikini, they can't wear a shirt and shorts? The gymnast outfit is cut so high?

10. Why is it only every 4 years? I can't wait that long.

So I missed the opening ceremony but I am looking forward to tonight's. I hope it is not on to late.

Will see.

2008-08-19T05:02:00.000-07:00

So I had my first A&P class yesterday. The teacher said you pretty much have to get an A in the class to get in to nursing school. NO PRESSURE. So I maybe blogging a little less and studying a whole lot more. The best part is I get to dissect a pig. I know that does not sound fun to many people but I am very excited. I remember in high school the biology teacher getting ready for his AP glass and he was getting the pigs ready for that class. I wanted to be in that class. So now my dream is coming true. Don't be to jealousy. Anyway we ended up having to pay for my biology book and the place I barrow books from didn't have either book except any older edition of my math book so hopefully I can use that one if not I will probably have to drop that class because math books cost even more that biology books. Why do they cost so much? Also nobody had used books so I had to pay full price. Anyway I know it will pay off in the end. Anyway off to take the kids to school and hope that I can use an old math book.

Oh My!!

2008-08-12T14:28:00.000-07:00

My computer has been down for about 5 days you never know how much you miss the blog world until you can't get to it. Zach is doing homework now not crazy about homework because I really just want to go to the parties at school and not have to do the hard part like math. I could read to him forever but skip the math. Life is always an adjustment. Anyway they both like school Eric loves it I mean he was singing in the car line "I love school I love school" his teacher is really great, warm and super sweet. I hope to get to know Zach's teacher more in the future. It is still really quite without them here during the day. I mean I painted my toes in the middle of the day how crazy. So I am planning on taking 2 classes myself to keep me busy. It will be my first time taking 2 classes so I hope I can keep up. Anyhoo it is good to have the computer back.

Quite

2008-08-07T08:56:00.001-07:00

The boys are officially at school. It is so quite and I don't think I like it to much. I am adjusting. They both went in no problem and I am grateful for that. We got there really early so we could park and I walked them in, the traffic was not so horrible of course I haven't picked them up yet. We'll see.

Got lost looking for the Jeff State campus in Center Point. The roads are so curve and they don't just cut straight through. Birmingham is not like Montgomery I am learning. But I finally found it turned in a book and sold 2 others. Then went to Aldi and was back home by 10:30. Now I have all day to catch up on laundry Yeah.

Signed up, birthaty party, orientation, and a final oh my

2008-08-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

I have signed up for a fall class, so decision made. I am never going to say never but I really have always wanted to be a nurse so even though it can seem like forever before I finish I really want to finish so I am. I am growing and learning .

Today we had Eric's birthday party. We went bowling it was very fun. The kids had fun and I think the adults did to. I am in to the destination party. No clean up before or after.

We had Zachary orientation yesterday and Eric's tonight. I liked Zach's teacher she seemed nice and her room was not to busy and full of stuff. It was very neat and organized. I am a little nervous about everything and it comes out by complaining so I am going to try not to do that. I am not very good a asking questions and she didn't really say a lot just if we had any questions. But it will all work out I know he will do fine. Eric can not wait.

Oh almost forgot I also have a final tonight but I have to say I now like math it is always the same it is what it is and does not change. So hopefully I get an A, but I will probably get a B and that is okey dokey with me/

A little sad.

2008-08-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

So I finally got up the nerve to call about the job. The position had been filled she thinks. So moving on. I am a little sad but I know that the right thing will come along. Or maybe it already has and I am already doing it. So maybe I have to find contentment in what I am already doing. Who knows. I feel so wishy-washy sometimes. I don't know what I want. Anyway life goes on and I will survive hey-hey.

My Mom is here she got here yesterday and we are going to Big Savers I can't wait. She has never been. And then grocery shopping and school supplies must be bought soon. Waiting on tax free tomorrow. Or tonight at midnight, I think I will sleep and just go tomorrow. And I must study at some point for my final Monday night. To much.

One down a gbillion to go.

2008-07-25T07:19:00.000-07:00

Zach made it last night, he didn't come wake us up. He said he did wake up but didn't open his eyes( a little advice from his oh so wise parents) and went back to sleep. So yeah. I always thought that once they were not babies anymore I would sleep again. Don't get me wrong I sleep a lot more then when they were babies but still. Anyway I am glad that we had a the opportunity to share with him the gospel and God's love for him and our own.

I dropped my application off yesterday. I am still amazed at how far things are here. The Board of Ed. is in Ashville. Anyway I would like to share a bit of my insanity with you. Why haven't they called me yet? I had this thought even before I took the application in. Like they could feel my want of the job telepathically. I mean I am so great and really want the job. Can't they tell that from my resume? I am the most impatient person ever. When I get a thought it is all I can think about. I am obsess over it. I plan my life for the next 25 years around something that has not even happen yet. (You know the whole retirement thing). Anyway I know that it is really a lack of trusting God and His plan for me, instead of my plans and what I want Him to do for me. So I am trying to just chill and trust that the best thing for me and the family is what God wants for me and to trust in that. We'll see I guess I will just have to keep working on that one.

Anyway I think we will go to the pool today I mean there are very few pool days left. so toddles for now.

Adivse please.

2008-07-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

My 10 year old is having a waking up at night scared out of his mind probably. He has always been a bit scared at night. Scared of robbers breaking in. He sees things moving and thinks he hears things moving. Or a light moving. We have tried many things like a night light, that was to bright and he would come wake us up to tell us he could not sleep because the light was to bright. Bye-Bye night light. The office is right across from him and he would see light from the computer or maybe an alien space ship, come to us wake us up and tell us. So we closed the office door. Now he thinks he sees the office door opening. The other night it was so bad he was shaking all over terrified. So due to being so tired he sleep with us briefly until I sent him back. We encourage him to pray to trust that God is in control and that the house is safe but if something were to happen it would happen and God has a greater plan than we can understand. Last night 3 times he came in and woke us up it is getting worst not better. He feels we are mad at him and we let him know that we are not mad just frustrated with the situation. We told him not to get up to go back to sleep that is not working. I know he is truly scared and not trying to just sleep with us we never let him, but I feel punishing him is not quite the right avenue yet . What should I do. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

Life is tremendous.

2008-07-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

So I am going to apply for a job at Moody High school in the office. Crazy I know but I keep an eye on there web site because I think it would be fabulous to be off work when the kids are out and I am very excited. Thanks to all the ladies that came over today and listening to my excitement. I can get a little excited. But I have decided that having something while the kids are in school would be good for me I tend to get a little crazy when I am not busy. So we will see what happens. I am leaving it up to God and if it is not this particular job He will have the right one lined up for me. Will I keep going to school? Probably but I am not sure if I would stick with nursing. Maybe something in office admin. or something. Because I think a job where I am off when the kids are would be super fabulous. And to be honest I love school but it can get a little tedious and I would be just as happy doing office work and working for the county. I am way to obsessed about retirement. but I really want to retire and travel and I need to have a good retirement lined up. And it would be a good fit for me I think. Who knows we will see. Anyway I had a really great day. I love having people over. I will have to do it again soon.

Chocolate Cake anyone?

2008-07-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

I would like to invited everyone over for chocolate cake Tuesday around 2:00p.m. If you can make it I would love to have you. Let me know if you can or just come on over.

Lately

2008-07-18T07:59:00.000-07:00

So life has been busy lately. And to quote Paige I haven't felt obligated to blog much lately. School is good and I have an A in math right now. I have never been able to say that in my entire life. Usually I was happy about a C. Wisdom and old age and actually studying has its advantages. I have observed that I really don't remember much of what I learned in high school, not because I had a drinking or drug problem just because I was a teenager and didn't really care. I hope I can instill in my kids the ability to care or a least that school matters. We'll see.

Speaking of school the boys start in less the three weeks. I am a little nervous about it but mainly nervous about being all by myself all day. What will I do? I meant I haven't been without one or both of them in almost 10 years! I am happy for them they are both very excited and looking forward to it. We will just have to wait and see what happens. I hope it all goes well and that I don't worry to much about weather it is the right thing or not.

Life feels good right now I mean really good. The hubby is wonderful the kids are good, summer has been so much fun. I am looking forward to tomorrow. Can't wait to see what life has around the corner.

Chillin.

2008-07-01T18:26:00.000-07:00

So summer is so good. We went to the water park Alabama Adv. my cousin Lindy and her son Jonathan came up and we had a great time. We got to talk a lot and I got to share with her the love I have for my church family and that finding a good church home is so encouraging and wonderful for your life and living the gospel and grace is wonderful. I am sure I did not convey it that eloquently but I hope I did okay. I love her so much and want great things for her. I had to call her at work to set up our plans. I still think it is so cute she has a job. I know she is grown up but in my mind we are still kids when we talk to each other.

Anyway the water park was great the kids had a great time. I am way to old to ride spinning stuff in fact I never really liked it so I got a little motion sick. The water rides were great except the one that is shaped like a bowl I banged my head and feel through the hole in a most unlady like fashion. But the boys thought I was way cool for doing it. And I have to get in my way cool quota before I get to old.

Can not wait till the 4th we are going down to see family and it will be a blast as always.

Happy 4th!!!

Things I need to do.

2008-06-25T06:16:00.000-07:00

I need to study. I can't seem to motivate myself to do Math it is so uninspiring.

I need to register the kids for school. I thought you had to do it by June now I know you have till July. Next week for sure.

Go to the grocery store. I need milk and Aldi is to far just for milk, but I don't want to go to Walmart just for milk. Can I survive without milk?

I need to stop and enjoy life more. I always feel better when I am so busy, but learning to be in the moment is hard. So I need to be in the moment and enjoy the kids and summertime more.

I need to be more patience. I have so little.

I need to turn off the cable. I don't need to watch so much TV.

I need to focus less on what I eat but why I eat. I want to not care one way or the other but I am a little obsessed with it. I need to give it to God and to not try and strategies it.

I need to exercise more. I used to exercise a least 5 days a week sometimes 6. Now I am at about 3 or 4.

I need to not worry and trust God. This is the biggest need. Why do I always feel like He needs my help to make decisions I mean surly He wants to know what I want Him to do.

So maybe I can give all my needs to God and not try and fix everything myself. Is that just one more thing I need to do? Oh well I am trying a little I guess.

Summer an stuff.

2008-06-20T09:49:00.000-07:00

We have been pretty busy with summer lately. If you haven't been the Moody library has been having different shows and door prizes every Friday. They have one more left a magician. It really has been fun. Eric won a door prize today so he was so excited. Also we have been having a great time at the Clayton's pool. I love having a place to take them to swim.

Last night Paige and I took Rebbecca dinner and got to meet and hold baby Jonathan. He is so sweet and it was fun to get to visit.

I really can't believe June is half way over. I forgot to wish Darrin a happy birthday on the blog Wednesday. So happy birthday Darrin. I love you even though you are on the down side of the hill. Growing old with you makes me very happy. Happy 42!!

The boys are really enjoying their guitar lesson. They think Adam is the coolest guy on the face of the Earth. And amazingly enough they are actually learning how to play. Not that I doubted Adam's ability just the ability of an 9 and 5 year old to focus and practice. But they do and enjoy it a lot.

My Math class is going well. I got an 95/A on my first test. It was easier than I though t it would be. Fractions are next. I remember why I don't like fractions because they are fractions.

Anyhoo can't wait until the 4th we are going to go visit the family in Wetumpka. I haven't seen some of my aunt's and uncles and cousins since Thanksgiving. So that should be fun. Later.

The boys are back.

2008-06-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

The boys are back. Yeah I really missed them 4 days is a long time. They had a great time with Grandma. They took them on their boat and went to Lake Jordon and Lake Martin. They got to drive the boat and had a great time. My family had a cabin on Lake Martin growing up and I have many wonderful memories of the lake. So I was very excited they got to ride on boat. They have never done that before. So now back to full time motherhood. I really did enjoy the quite but now that they are older they really are not as much work as when they were little. So things I discovered about myself while all alone for 4 days. (Darrin was home in the evenings but I was by myself all day).

1. I watch way to much TV. And trash TV.

2. I find my self thinking and my lips moving. I was truly one day away from talking to my self.

3. The baby dog would be so spoiled if I was alone with him on a continuous bases.

4. I email a lot because I was a wee bit lonely.

5. I would probably never cook.

6. I would shop a lot.

7. I do not like to be alone. (I see a pattern).

8. I don't eat as much because I forget to.

9. I had to get my own drink a lot.

10. I am way spoiled.

So next time they leave me I need to arrange play dates for my self so I don't turn in to the crazy lady with a little dog all dressed up in cute outfits.

Alabaster city feast.

2008-06-10T07:12:00.001-07:00

City feast and more.

2008-06-10T06:40:00.000-07:00

We went to city feast in Alabaster Sat. It was fun whee bit hot but fun was had by all. It was free to get in they had a bounce moonwalk area that was free. Also a rock wall that was free to climb. Zachary had fun and tried 3 or 4 times and finally got to the top. I told him to have that much focus and drive when it came to school work. He did not find that funny. Act of Congress played they were awesome as always.

Sunday the mother-in-law meet us for lunch and offered to take the kids with her for a few days. We say of course but they have no extra clothes. She says no problem I will buy them some. I secretly think she thinks I over pack when they normally go. Just in defense of myself Zach one time wore his Elmo pajama shirt to church with her. So I tend to send a lot of choices. Of course she back packed through Europe with just a back pack for 3 weeks. I could never do that. I try to pack lighter. When we meet her and Darrin's brother in Calloway last year for Thanksgiving I was so glad we got there first so she could not see all my luggage.

Anyhoo just imagine our excitement at the unexpected thrill of no kids. We went and rented 2 movies and watched both. I had not been feeling good all day thought maybe just tired. No I had fever and a little stuffy. Spent all day yesterday laying and feeling horrible. I could have gone anywhere but no I could not lift my head without feeling dizzy. So anyway I feel better today and hope to leave the house. I have not showered in awhile so I know I will at least do that today. Oh did I mention I can't stand my Math class it is way not fun. It is all about Math, Math,Math, Math that is all the teacher talks about. Boring!!! So later all.

Crazy!!!

2008-06-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

Okay so I saw on the news the new Top Model is a plus size. SHE IS A SIZE 10!!! When did size 10 become plus size. I mean I really don't care but the struggle is hard enough without having crazy people decide size 10 is plus size. Why does it matter I honestly want to scream. Who is in charge of this decisions and when did it matter so much what size we are. I want to be happy and healthy. I want to not look at myself and not judge myself. Happiness is not suppose to be tied up in what size jeans we ware. I want to eat a cookie or two and not feel guilty. I want my happiness to be in my family and God not in my size. I guess it has always been this way think of the crossest and be glad those days are gone. Maybe one day this crazy world will look at everyone for who they are and not what their weight is. Maybe not. I want to bring chubby back and that to bring sexy back. I mean chubby is sexy right? Here's to the pursuit of happiness. I am going to go eat a cookie.

Summer.

2008-05-31T12:24:00.000-07:00

It's hot. When did it happen and why is it always such a shock to the system? Anyway I am currently trying to keep 3 different plants alive. I have a black thumb what am I thinking! Also 2 pots have a variety of plats, 1 has peppers the other has basil, parsley and oregano. The other is a white ivy that I got on my birthday. I always want to grow things and they always die I figured out that I mainly water to much so I am trying to remember to test the soil. Will see.

How you know you are back from your all girl beach trip:

1.The boys are playing football on the square video game thing. I think that is so pointless. I do not like video games. They actually think they are playing. Ugh. They yell at it and take it personally. Men.

2. I am going to eat something cooked on the grill tonight.

3. The Belmont horse race comes on today. We watch the derby and the other one every year. Not so into it.

4. When I got back the boys had been camping. They had ticks. Why I don't go camping.

5. I have cooked every night this week. I don't mind cooking just lets me know I am back.

Well I guess I am back to earth and school has started back for me. The teacher is a teacher at Moody Elementary (I had to spell check to spell elementary good thing English is over)Anyway he seems to grade really nicely. You get 5 test you can throw out the lowest and if you do really good on the finally you can throw out your other lowest and use your finally grade twice. So unless I take up crack or crystal meth I think I will pass. (I know I shared that with some of you but I thought it was a great line if I do say so myself). So I have not even opened the book yet maybe tomorrow.

Glad to be home and back among friends. We had a great time at Crissy last night. Always great food and fun with the ladies. Toddles for now.

Beach trip 2008!!

2008-05-27T12:51:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the beach. It was really great seeing my friends from P'ville. Keeping in touch is hard when your so far away. It was wonderful hanging out by the pool and relaxing. The hardest part was eating late I am not use to that. But waiting for a table takes a while. You may wander where the pictures of the actually beach are. I forgot to take them But me in a swim suit for all the blog world to see I am okay with. Missed everybody. Hope to see my fellow work out friends tomorrow I need to run. A lot.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-05-27T12:47:00.001-07:00

River Life

2008-05-21T14:05:00.000-07:00

Well we have been Mom's since yesterday. The boys and I have been treated like royalty. Mom has cooked and watched the boys the whole time. I just woke up from a 2 hour nap and I wasn't awaken by the kids I woke up naturally. How awesome !!!! I also got a new book that I have been reading and it is very good. Riley, my step-dad, took the boys hiking/walking and I read it for about 2 hours. Hey I see a pattern, and I like the pattern. So I feel like I need to do something I have been so busy with life lately that I think I need to do something. But I think I am going to try to keep relaxing and enjoy this break.

Oh by the way I still go to the beach Friday without the kids or Darrin for three whole days with one of my best girlfriends. Try not to hate me to much. Just kidding if I could I would take everybody with me. Well maybe not everybody.

2008-05-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

36

2008-05-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

I am adjusting to the fact that I turned 36 yesterday. Really that is getting scary close to the big 40. I never thought about getting older until I started getting older. But I had a great day the kids made me cards and the hubby bought me a card with some money for my trip to the beach with some friends from Prattville next week. Kim made me a wonderful chocolate cake gooey thing that was wonderful, thank you. At the gym after running I mention that it was my birthday I don't like to say it out loud like please don't look at me. So everyone started singing "Happy Birthday" and so I blushed really bad and was so embarrassed. But it does always make you feel special when people sign "Happy Birthday" so thanks ladies. My Mom sent me a beautiful email telling me things about my babyhood and my delivery. Thanks Mom.

Onto, will soccer ever end? We are now making up games that we missed from bad weather. And a tournament on Friday and Saturday with a total of 5 games. I am really ready for it to be over. I really enjoy soccer and the boys love it for the most part but near the end I can't wait for it to be over. So one more week.

Next week we are going down to visit my Mom and the I am going to the beach with just girls cannot wait. 3 whole days on the beach with one of my bestest friends Angie. So that should be really funny. Another friend Bridget is letting us go down with her for the weekend then her family is coming after we leave. I miss my friends form P'ville it has been an adjustment so getting to see them will be great.

So I guess I will now come to terms with my age the alternate to not getting older is even less appealing.

I Got A "B".

2008-05-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

I can not believe it I got a B in English. I was very worried about it because it was harder than I thought. I also never knew how my research paper turned out. Maybe I get something in the mail about it who knows I don't care I passed. So on to Math for simpletons.

On to Mother's Day I am very thankful for my mother. She has always been there for me and though we have not always gotten along perfectly she has always supported me and loved me unconditionally all my life. So thank you my sweet Mommy for all that you do and all that you are.I would wanted no other mother but you. All my love your Happy Heart. (See pic above I think she will be okay with this pic since you can't see her really well. She does not like pic's of herself)

Also to all the mother's out there and you know who you are you have the stretch marks to always remind you of your bundles of joy. I wish all of you the happiest Mother's Day ever.

Leaving?

2008-05-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

Is Kim really leaving? Is she really? Who will take me to the thrift store and find me fabulous stuff? I mean I am such a newbie at thrifting and I still need lots of help. So I really will miss that part a lot but I will really miss her smiling face the way she always makes everyone feel so welcome. I remember the first time I went to her house for small groups and I sat at the bar in the pool house and I knew after about ten minutes that we would be friends really good friends. She has shown me the gospel so much and always weaves it into her life so beautifully. Always answering my questions but never pushy. She has made me a runner I know she would say I did it but she is a great motivator. She has taught me to be more open and the ability to be more hospitable. Even when you have to watch Phantom of the Opera 3 times in one week still you get cheese cake and you are always welcome. My boys will miss her boys greatly. So I know you are scared about leaving and I know that you will make new friends but I am glad that I get to say that I am your friend. You made my move and adjustment to Moody so wonderful and I will always be grateful to you for that. So as hard as it is for you to leave I pray for you and that in Clinton MS that there are lots of friends waiting to be blessed with you as their friend. As long as you know that I expect you back here in three years to the day. And whenever you want to come visit that the Nold's welcome you and I can't wait to come stay with you and see the fabulous Mississippi. I love you and I am proud of you. Missing you already.

My top ten favorite things about Kim Hill.

1. Cheese cake and her love of it.

2. Hangin and just talking endless about everything.

3. That she can't understand how I just don't like coffee. Even with liquor in it.

4. Shopping. (need I say more)

5. Beex and his love of Mrs. Header's bubble gum.

6. Si guys sweet face.

7. Corin and his funny, funny sense of humor.

8. Her great passion for something if she loves it (Phantom anyone).

9. Her open and wonderful happy self.

10. That I am her friend. :)

Conflicted?????????????????????

2008-04-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

I have finished writing my paper. I can't believe it it seems like I have been working on it forever. I have been thinking lately that I don't know if I want to keep going with school. Do I have the patience? Do I really want to? Am I wishy washy? I really want to keep going but it has been a strain on my time and the time with the family. The boys have been great at helping and not having there dinner cooked every night. And I am happy having my own little slice of life. But the boys are going back to school next year and I think why not just get a job and not wait 3 to 4 years to finish school. Or work and go to school. I have a difficult time making decisions and I don't like to stop something once I have started. But I know that it would be okay either way. I just wonder if am able to keep up with it all. I still have to type my paper and edit it so the work goes on. I have learned a lot and have decided to take a math class during the summer. Which I actually see as growth for me. I am usually an all or nothing person so doing something I am not 100% sure about is good for me. So maybe it is about growing and not just about finishing. Guess I need to type my paper. Peace out.

I think I am turing into a morning person!!!

2008-04-17T05:37:00.000-07:00

Help me I think I am turning into a morning person. I don't understand it I am official unable to go back to sleep if I wake up around 6:00a.m. This is not like me at all,it started about 2 years ago and it has only gotten worse. I miss sleeping in till 9:00 or 10:00 but alas even when on vacation I can't. Sad :( But it has made me more productive in the morning I even fixed breakfast for my husband this morning before he left. This almost never happens and it was only cinnamon rolls but hey I opened the can and put then in the oven and he loves cinnamon rolls. But I used to wish I would be a morning person because I am married the morningest morning person ever. He does more before 8:00a.m. then I do all day. But he has always been sympathetic to my affliction of sleeping in past 7:00a.m. He even wishes he could sleep in sometimes but that is a rare occurrence. So I guess I will be getting all the early bird specials and be asleep by 8:30 okay I am also official old.

In a Good Mood.

2008-04-08T10:48:00.000-07:00

I am in a good mood. Did a lot of work on my paper last night at the library. I meet with my teacher tonight and should probably be working on it now but I don't want too. So had a great time at Kim's yesterday thank you for the wonderful pictures and I am glad I could unburden you of some of your cheese cakes. I will miss you greatly when you go but I am happy for you on your new adventure (I said that because it is the right thing to do but really not happy about it at all) good luck. Any who me and the boys just baked banana nut bread, oatmeal cookies, and bran muffins, I have been in the mood to bake for a couple of weeks but have not had the time. We had great fun and they are actually helpful at fetching and measuring things now so it is fun. I need to clean the house but baking was so much more fun then cleaning so maybe tomorrow. I have truly learned to be more patient since starting school, learning that my-self worth is not connected to how clean my house is or how perfect I keep everything. Also not fussing at everybody for not doing it and just letting go. If only I could put off laundry but people are running out of under ware and socks so that I have to kind of pay attention to. So here's to a great day loving ever minute of my crazy busy life. Later.

5 K We did it!!!

2008-04-05T08:13:00.001-07:00

How long?

2008-04-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

I am a horrible procrastinator, I need to be working on my final research paper but I don't want to.(imagine me whining and pulling my hair, while laying in the floor kicking my feet) That is how I feel.I don't understand why we have to do something totally different from what we have be doing. Very frustrating, I know I must learn and get through this and I am trying to remember why I want to do this. Why? I have lost a little focus and Darrin has been giving me pep talks,thanks honey. But I guess the biggest thing I am learning is to stick with it. I didn't know I would have to have quiet so many pep talks with myself but a least I have not quit. I will not DOR "I got no where else to go". Love that movie. So I will keep on keeping on. And try not to be so whiny.

Also, the 5K is Saturday wish us luck and no rain. I am still enjoying running I can sometimes run and talk at the same time now. Learning new things at my age is really cool. I mean I always thought of over 30 as near the end thank goodness that is not so. I am happier than I have ever been and glad to be learning new things. So I guess I better go work on my paper or maybe put it off until later.

Belk's has a sell.

2008-03-31T05:43:00.000-07:00

Well Friday morning after running Kim mention Belk's is having a $1.98 to $4.98 sell I say I'm in. So I go home then head over to Kim's. Within 10 minutes maybe not even that long Zach's saying Mom from out side very urgently. I walk out and Eric is bleeding from his chin and knee, Zach explains that he lost control of the bike he was on and ran over Eric. "What you ran over him" I ask? Yes he ran over him. Okay I am thinking a few band-aide's and we will be on or way to the big sell at Belk's. But then every time Eric moves he screams his belly hurts. So I lift up his shirt and guess what a tire mark going right across his upper belly. Now I get a little scared because he is making this moan like wail that is not like him. So Kim comes and looks and we call Anita, she is at work, so we call Myja and she looks and says probably need to get him checked out. So I call Darrin because I don't like to drive in a panic, so he meets me at Raceway and we go to St.Vincent's East. They check him out and say he is a little tender on his side he needs a CT. Okay so we are there about 4 hours they got us back quick and did a great job. But the whole time Eric is fine joking playing Eye Spy. So they do the CT and say he may have a lesion on his spleen. I'm sorry say again? My brain is not computing. Then we are told we will be there or transferred to Children's. So now I have that scary felling inside because living in Montgomery Children's is were you were flown to if it was really bad. So they did transfer us in an ambulance (because they wanted him under the care of surgeons that specials in children in case he needed surgery) Eric did like the ambulance ride they rode lights and siren go down 20/59 at 5:00 p.m. very wild. So we get there they put me in a little room all be myself. Didn't like this I needed to talk nervously to make me feel better but no one was there. Darrin had run home to get me some clothes to sleep in at the hospital. Then they move him to the PICU,again scared feeling inside. But they soon reviewed his CT and said that it maybe a lesion but it maybe just a bruise. We would be moving to a private room. So by now they have put an IV in both the babies arms and start drawing blood every 4 hours. He could not get up, he was on bed rest, no food, Eric was not happy. They were all really great and kind they took care of Darrin and me to, getting us water and whatever we needed, Children's was great. So they let us go the next day and it was a bruise on his spleen so no soccer or wrestling or to much running around for 2 weeks. During all of this,for the first time in my life, I didn't think God what did I do wrong and now what can I do right to make this all okay and make you happy with me again. I just keep being thankful for his grace and knowing that I was on the path He had chosen for me and to just be with me in my time of need. And he was there the whole time and He loved me and delighted in me and that was my comfort to know that things happen and that no matter what God would be there for me and my family.

So you ask what about the sell I made it yesterday and got some really great stuff. But most of all I am glad my baby is okay.

Day Three,Four and Five.

2008-03-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

Okay so we did leave really early. Got to Destin at about 9:30 can you say early check-in I love this try it sometimes check-in is normally at 4:00 p.m. but if your room is ready they let you check-in. If it is not ready just go have lunch or shop. It is like getting an extra day. So anyway we got there changed and went for a run so humid and fast man is to fast for me. I mean Darrin says he is slow but I am about to die and he is doing ballet moves to be funny and it just makes me crazy because I can't even breathe. I missed my running friends this week they run like normal semi-fast people not crazy legs Darrin. So after the run we changed and went and had lunch. First let me describe were we stayed. Sand Destin is a resort with hotels and golf and stores and so much stuff our hotel is attached to The Village which is a New Orleans style area with shops and restaurants/bars. So we can walk about a block and be right in the middle of it. So we had lunch started to rain (we were on a covered dock that was lover the little pond area) and had great fun. I ordered a Pina Coldia (spelling is way off spell check did not help) so it had way to much rum in it and I like to taste coconut not rum so Darrin helped me drink it because it cost allot. They have a 2% resort fee on most dining out things what is that? I mean duh I have to pay 2 % that is insane. But resort life is very nice so I guess that is to be expected. So anyway took a nap and then went to dinner and then my favorite place was The Funky Blues Shack they had live music and both night the bands were really good. So this is my observation on bar people. I know I was also in a bar but we really were there for the music. There is always and older woman dancing all alone to some pretty undancable music. Both night's this was true, how bizarre. Always college girls in way to short a skirt and way to much make-up, and older guys ready to buy them drinks. Really the people watching was just as fun as the music. So the next day took the Tram down to the beach love the Tram, you call and they pick you up and take you anywhere on the resort love me some Tram. I loathe having to drive everywhere and you can have a few drinks and not worry about driving. Oh also did a little shopping at the factory outlets good prices but they were no Big Saver let me tell you. So went to the pool, no swimming a little to cool but my fake tan got some pool side time. Took a nap and then went over the Towne Center and ate at his great Mexican place. Walked out on the pier and then back to the Shack. Love me some Funky Blues. So any who got back this afternoon and crashed for about 2 hours and enjoyed seeing my boys and hearing all about there fun times at Grandma's and Gingey's. I must now come back down to earth. I must say that this had to be my favorite trip with just me and Darrin ever. Hope to see everyone at the Easter egg hunt tomorrow.

Day one and day two.

2008-03-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

So day one of vacation was fun picked up the kids then meet my sister-in-law and got my niece and nephew in Prattville. Stopped by to see my goodest friend Angie and hung out with her for a little while. Then came down to Mom's Darrin got here about 6:30 and we all watched the Bee-Movie very funny.

Day two woke up way early my Mom does not like curtains it blocks the view and the sun is so bright in the morning. So then Darrin and I rode into P'ville, we went to the Bass Pro shop, he does not hunt or fish but it is a man store. Saw an old friend that we both used to work with (she was the cashier at the Bass Pro place) she didn't recognize me I sometimes forget I used to way a good bit more, anyway good to see here we used to go to lunch every day and went through a pregnancy with her. Then the sun came out really good so we put the top down on the Jeep and rode with AC/DC blasting on the radio and cruised on back. The kids have already gotten muddy from head to toe twice they are all fixing to shower and settle in with the Game cube. Oh forgot I brought chili fixins and made a big old pot this morning.

So day three I think since we wake up around 5:30, remember no curtains, probably be at the beach around 8:00 tomorrow. Sand Destin here we come.

Movie reviews.

2008-03-17T05:58:00.000-07:00

This weekend the kids went to their Grandma's Saturday. Darrin and I had such a great time. We rented movies Saturday (Gone Baby Gone and The Simpson's')We watched Gone Baby Gone because we had both read the book. It drives me crazy when they change the movie I mean I know you can't keep everything in but they changed some very relevant stuff. And the Boston accents it was like watching Pride and Prejudice I obviously have a fair amount of difficulty with accents. The Simpson's' vulgar not very funny so completely rude and irreverent. No surprise there. Then Sunday got up tried to go running together, I didn't eat breakfast made it one lap and almost through-up. Oh did I mention I had a little wine the night before, I can not drink then run the next morning. I felt so bad I apologized a least 20 times to my husband who was so nice and didn't make me feel bad. We then went to Waffle House can you say "PECAN waffle" I have not had one in a very long time so good. Then we went to church, then went to lunch, then went to see Semi-Pro with Will Ferrel. He is so funny I mean he just makes me laugh so hard it had way to many F$#@ in it but it so so funny. Then we came home packed a little went to eat at Santa Fe (Darrin did not want to cook so we did not have to clean up) so three meals out yesterday yeah crazy I know but we are in vacation mode, and when you eat out without the kids and drink water it is really not to pricey. So this morning Darrin went to work and Grandma called last night and wanted to take the boys fishing this morning so I don't have to get them until about 1:00 or so. So I may blog while at Mom's I don't know. Oh did I mention I have a paper due the Tuesday after we get back. I really don't want to write a paper, I want to be on vacation fully now I have this paper looming over me like a black cloud. I will write a Mom's and hopefully get done. I will not write while at the beach that would just be wrong. Love me some vacation, and I feel completely caught up on my movie watching.

Time away!!

2008-03-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

Can't wait for Spring Break. Me and the kids are going to Mom's and then Darrin is going to meet me there and then we are going to Sand Destin for 2 1/2 days. It is our 12 year anniversary!! I can't believe it has been 12 years, life just flies by at mach speed. So since I have a paper due this week two dentist appointments and I need to pack. I am going to sing his praises now because I may not get to later.(and I know Darrin would be upset if I didn't blog about him)

So I have know Darrin since I was 19 and we worked together, I went away to school then came back and we went out. I knew after about 2 weeks he was the one. What the deciding factor was when we went to the store at 10:30 and bought me a Coke and a Snickers. I thought this guy will take care of me forever, and he has. He spoils me rotten and I hope I do the same for him. Life is good and I hope to grow really old with my sweetie. He makes me laugh and has always been there for me throughout our lives together. So thank you honey for our 2 wonderful sons and for 12 years of wonderful times. I love you.

Soccer 2008

2008-03-04T14:09:00.001-08:00

Fun at the park with friends.

2008-03-04T13:59:00.001-08:00

Spring please!!

2008-02-28T10:10:00.000-08:00

Woke up this morning again with a sore throat. Way tired of the sickies. But I will survive Hey Hey! (I always have to sing that when I say survive Hey Hey!) So other then that I fell pretty good. So tired of school I am ready for Spring Break we hadn't planned on taking it off but I think we need a break. My school is going pretty well but it is harder then I had thought it would be, my teacher is very nice and let me and others rewrite our papers if we needed to. I needed too. So the only thing getting me through is that I am half way done and I show up to class and participate so I hope that is worth some extra points. I need a C so I hope that I do get it. I am learning but,college is very different and I hope the difficulty of this class will prepare me for my other classes.

So 10 things I like about Spring!

1.Flowers blooming. I do not have a green thumb so I must admire others flowers but I do love them. Oohh a field trip to the Botanical Gardens!!!

2. Flip Flops. I love that they are back in style.

3. Sunshine.

4. Fresh air, cool breezes.

5. Trips to the beach before it gets to hot.

6. It's not a 114 degrees yet.

7. Swimming or watching the kids swim when it is really to cold but they don't care.

8. Easter and Easter dresses, Easter egg hunts. We always had a big hunt at my PawPaw's I'll miss that.

9. Sitting in the backyard music on,BBQing, drinking a cool beverage. With my sweetie or course.

10. Everything becoming new again. The grass, the trees, the flowers everything.

So eagerly awaiting Spring, and eagerly awaiting May 2 (that would be the end of English 101) and on to new Summer classes.

2008-02-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

I had great fun helping at Kim's yesterday I was so motivated and enjoyed scrubbing the floors with a rag(I have never done that before) I came home and did it to my floors. Loved it they are so pretty. The house is clean which always makes me happy. I used to wonder why things in life happen. Why God? It is hard to look at it from why not; I have been through things that made me question God and His love for me. I have learned so much this past year about God's devine providence and seen such strength in our church that I hope I am better at not questioning God and to accepted what He has planned for me whatever it may be. To have heart ache and know that from that God is working. To suffer and to know that how I suffer may help someone else. To be helpful and always thinking of other does not come naturally to me, I am trying and hope that I can get better at it. I think that I want to know why but truly that would be to much for me and to give all things to God is forever the challenge. Yesterday was a sad and happy day to be able to pray with each other and to feel the depth of our love through the love of God was so moving and so powerful. I think that that is what the meaning of church is and why God's wants us to be part of the body so we can grow and love each other through everything.

FLURRY!!!

2008-02-13T08:15:00.000-08:00

Zachary does not feel well he is worse than a 2 year old with the whining. He thinks sick means laying on the couch or playing his game cube. It means you need a nap. So he is crying and won't just rest in his bed. Maybe I am horrible and should just let him watch TV but he tends to be like me and has lazy down real good. So maybe he will rest maybe not I am ready for SPRING!!!! I mean it is snow flurrying today yesterday it was 70 degrees. CRAZY!!!!

I ran 8 whole minutes today twice. YEAH!!! That is the most I have ran since Jr.High when they made you. I really like it it feels good do to something I never thought I could do. I also need to get over that I should lose a least 5 to 10 pounds a week now that I am a "runner". I feel like a new mom who's baby is the greatest baby ever like I have done something so unique. So I will not try to talk about it to much but am really great at it now that I have been doing it for 8 whole weeks so I must share my vast knowledge of running with everyone. Just kidding.

So maybe it will get warmer and I will shrink a little or not. I wish that I could have a week on the beach. With the kids and a nanny for the kids so I can see them some but not a lot. I know,never going to happen but a girl has to have her dreams.

Sick

2008-02-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

We are sick I felt like yuck yesterday head cold, laid on the couch and slept off and on all day. Zachary then started trowing up right after lunch luckily only two or three times. I know I should probably know how many times but remember I was asleep and he is 9 and can run fast a make it to a toilet. So if there is anything good about trowing up is when your kid can make it to the toilet. My baby is growing up:( As you know I have been mourning the loss of my 150 channels since we down graded. I am so spoiled and am realizing this. I have made it and got the first much, much lower bill so it is not quiet as painful anymore. When is game cube to much? 3 hours 7 hours? Is it wrong for them to watch TV right after I say turn that off and do something productive like watch TV!!! I think they are about ready for a pop quiz on Logo Star Wars. So hope everyone gets better and spring will get here soon. Can you say hay fever?

Trying to do nothing.

2008-02-05T12:05:00.000-08:00

The kids are at my Mom's. I woke up all on my own this morning. Nobody had to be feed but me. I am trying to do nothing. It is not as easy as it sounds. I have watched a lot of TV and lounged a good bit but now its 2ish and I just changed out the laundry. Took a shower. Cleaned the kitchen. I can't stop. Why is it so hard to do nothing? I mean I dream of doing nothing but never seem to get to. So I promised myself that today I would do nothing. But alas I can't seem to stop myself. Maybe I need an intervention. Someone to stand over me and make me relax, but if someone was coming over I would really have to get the house in order. So I guess I have enjoyed doing things on my schedule today so that is sort of like doing nothing isn't it?

Also it is to quiet I have the TV and radio on, the dry and wash are making noise. But no one is running around being crazy. Max did bark this morning at something but that only lasted a few minutes he is very quite. So I guess I will try and enjoy the quiet while it last. I promise tho veggie out a little more but now I have to finish my rough draft for class tonight. Nathaniel Hawthorne so interesting. Sort of.

100 Day party!!

2008-01-31T07:59:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at our 100 day of school party.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-01-31T07:57:00.001-08:00

?????

2008-01-30T10:08:00.000-08:00

Just cleaned the house it is so lovely. I absolutely hate my vacuum I really want a Dyson. I am almost caught up on laundry and I feel very in control. I know this feeling is fleeting so I am trying to enjoy it while I can. I made a 76/C on my first essay. I am so glad I did pretty good for my first time, at least that is what the teacher wrote on my paper. So on to the next one.

So I was the "friend" who went to Moody Elementary yesterday. We are considering the boys going next year. I love homeschooling and really enjoy it. But I feel overwhelmed and ill equipped which I know is a pretty common feeling. So as a family we when decided to homeschool we said that we would not close any doors. I always thought that they would eventually go back and I guess knowing when is the big question. So we are thinking and I am just so glad that we live in a time and place where we have the choices we do. I think sometimes having the choices are hard. I am just really glad the kids are open with us and let us know what they want and respect that Darrin and I will make the best decision for the family.

I am running. I think this is so unbelievable. I have a husband who runs and have always secretly wanted to run, but never thought I could. I can run 5 whole minutes without stopping. Thanks ladies I really am enjoying it.

The COWS meeting was good. I think that Crissy did a great job, because you really have to trust God with everything and know that He can do whatever you need Him to do in any area of your life.

So today is a good day and I got things done. I wish I felt good even when I am not doing all the things on my mental check list. I guess I just need to add that to my list.

OCD!!

2008-01-25T14:05:00.000-08:00

Kim Hill tagged me to do my top 10 obsessions which came from her happy list. Go figure.

So here goes.

1. I re-wash clothes if they don't smell perfect. I hate when they smell even a little musty.

2. Fingernails. I used to always keep mine long and polished. Lately they won't grow they peel down to the quick. I am so vain that it is driving me crazy.

3. Cleaning my house. I am compulsive about it. I could clean 2 or 3 hours a day, happily. I have let it go a little but it drives me crazy. I adore vacuum lines in the carpet they are soooo pretty.

4. I won't wear red. Why can't redheads wear red? The thing is I bought a red swing velvet coat. Now I am scared to wear it. I mean blonde's wear yellow, brunettes wear brown. So why not.

5. Clean feet. I hate dirty feet.I make my kids bath way to much. When Zach was a baby the doctor told me to stop washing him so much I was drying him out. Sorry Zach.

6. I love my yorkie Max way more then is normal. I am not a huge pet person but he is truly the greatest dog in the whole world. I love him like a crazy old cat lady except he is a dog, and I don't want 10 dogs just the one.

7. I plan everything. When we go on trips I would have a schedule of every minute of everyday. I actually did the last time and it was way fun for me. I don't like open endedness I need a schedule. The family on the other hand, not so into it.

8. I could watch TV for days on end I hate that I could watch it so much. We recently downgraded the Dish to 100 channels. I miss the other 150 allot. Even though there are only about 10 I really miss but you can't just order what you want. Very annoying.

9. Lent. I de-lent everybody. I had a Bounce scented lent brush it ran out and now I am worried I want be able to find a new one. I can not de-lent before I leave and it is driving me crazy.

10. I drink Diet Coke we are out now and it is in the back of my brain that I am out and I need it. I need it bad really bad. I mean I don't think I could live with out it. I horde it and will not share. When we go out to my Mom's I have 3 or 4 20oz even if we are only there over night.( She lives way far out and it is to far to go to a store so I must have it with me at all time.

Isn't it fun that what makes us happy also makes us crazy. Who knew.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-01-20T11:36:00.001-08:00

2008-01-20T11:27:00.001-08:00

Snowing!!!!

2008-01-19T10:21:00.001-08:00

Okay so I was wrong I can admit when I am wrong. It snowed not quite on the schedule the weatherman said but it did snow. Zachary now believes in the weatherman again. We went out and played in it had a snow ball fight and walked around the neighborhood while it was snowing. We keep signing "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" as Kim Hill would say perfection. Of course for it to be totally perfect we would have had to sign in opera voices alas we did not. Eric keep saying over and over "This is great!" he had a blast.

The concert last night was so completely awesome. They were very, very good. We had a great time hangin with our fellow Community Pres. friends. I adore being a grown up. Sometimes I forget what it is like to just sit and enjoy something like that.

Well guess I will go be with the family. The snow is melting, its melting, but it was wonderful while it lasted.

I don't think so.

2008-01-18T13:55:00.000-08:00

I don't think it will snow to much. It was 57 degrees today. Zachary says he no longer believes in the weatherman. Like he just found out about Santa. He is angry that they would even mention snow if it weren't a 100 % true. He has already made a map of the Clayton/Hill's yard to plan for his snowball fight. Please snow so Zachary can still believe in the weatherman!!!

My sweet baby Max (for those who don't know he is my little Yorkie) went to day to get a hair cut and I mention about make an appointment to get his teeth pulled (his baby teeth did not fall out) the vet was standing there and I guess he has some Christmas bills due because he said they would do it today. Most the time I can't even get him for a hair cut but today he can have all that done. All that to say that as I was leaving him I had the thought that I hadn't prepared him for anything but a hair cut, like when you tell the kids that they could get a shot at the doctor's. I know he would not have been anymore prepared if the appointment had been scheduled for next Tuesday. I know he can't understand English but I am obviously way to into my dog.

I get to go out tonight to be with grown ups in a grown up bar. I can't wait to hear Adam's band. Very excited. Thanks Kim Hill for watching the boys this is there first friend sleepover. They are over the moon with excitement and if it does snow (please snow) I think that the only day that could rival getting up and having a snow ball fight with your best buddies is maybe their wedding day or the birth of their first born.

Hope everyone has a great time in the snow, but I still don't think so.

Yeah!!

2008-01-14T15:53:00.000-08:00

I am on hold trying to pay a bill. I loath being on hold. The bill says they close at 6:00 p.m. It is now 5:56 p.m. Do you think I may have waited to late to pay it? I think 4 minutes the day before cutting it off is okay. I mean if it is going to be late it might as well count. They picked up I made it with 1 minute to spare.

Doing laundry. Always doing laundry. I wish it I could just do it one day a week and be done somehow it works better to do it every day or every other day. So thus I am always doing laundry. Endlessly.

I love having friends who listen so well and just let you vent and love you and not judge you. That is hard for me because to do that means letting your mask down and admitting that your life is not perfect. That you don't always get it right. That life is a big wonderful mess and if it was easy then we wouldn't have heaven to look forward to. I am not perfect and as shocking as that is I know I am loved.

I am trying to make a big decision right now and I don't do well with loose ends. I think that once a decision is made I always feel defense about it and must be totally right. I am learning to not be that way and know that whatever my decision is that it is the best for me and my family and to not worry what I think others will think. To know that its okay to be right or wrong.

Life is hard but good and I am slowly trying to look at the struggle as a gift and to learn to grow from it and to not always run from it. I think I over think to much and worry to much. Which means I am not trusting in Jesus enough and to not means I am not grateful for what He did for me and that it means nothing. I can't wait until Wednesday class I miss it when we don't have it. I forget to quickly and I am always needing to be reminded.

So yeah to the struggle. Yeah to learning. Yeah to growing closer to God. because I know that is all I really want or need.

English 101.

2008-01-09T14:06:00.000-08:00

I have official started school. My teacher is Mrs.Buzbee. She is very sweet and seems very helpful. I am pretty sure I was the oldest one in the class, but with age comes wisdom. I enjoy all the knowledge I have acquired in the school of life and hope it serves me well. Although it was a little scary getting started I am really glad that I have. I hope that this will help me learn patience. I am by nature not a patient person. I over think and over worry about everything. So I try not to focus on that this will probably take me 3 to 4 years. I say to myself I am now one step closer to the goal I have set. I am one step closer to a dream that I have always had. So very content with myself right about now and very patiently working towards my goal. I am very much enjoying feeling like I am accomplishing something and that is a good feeling. I hope that by the time I have to write my research paper I will be ready (panicking because I have never written a research paper) to write it and to finish what I have started. So 4 months from now I can check English 101 of my very long list of classes I have to take. But definitely happy that I am slowly and patiently getting there.

Resolutions?

2008-01-01T09:18:00.001-08:00

We went to The Sharp's last night. It was as always very fun. This was the first New Year's party that Darrin and I have ever been to. I had mimosas,chocolate and great company.

So Zachary keeps asking me what my new years resolution is. I don't make them anymore. I think that they are just to hard and to easy to let go so why bother. I mean I wake up every day thinking I need to diet, I need to be a better wife and mother so this day is really no different. So I stopped making resolutions a few years ago. Now I think why are they always the more self-centered things. Why can't I resolute to be more kind to others (also for me so I can say to myself I was kind today) help someone (also for me). If I can come up with one that isn't all about me maybe I will give it a try again. I know that they are about improving myself but I think I try and fail at that enough. So I think I will start my new year off just knowing that God delights in me no matter my short comings and those short comings make me long for Him and with out them I probably wouldn't. So I resolute to be me and enjoy life and to not making new years resolutions.

Veggin'

2007-12-27T10:24:00.000-08:00

So Christmas was great had great family fun, lots of gifts, lots of food very good times. I cooked my first turkey it was moist and delicious. So Christmas is over. Eric now keeps asking me when New Years day is the child must have an event to look forward to. I also told him he could have some champagne to toast the New Year, he is very excited about that.

Yesterday and today we have been veggin. The kids have been playing video games or watching TV. I have been watching TV. I think I have now seen ever Lifetime movie about Christmas. Why are all the themes about switching to some alternate life to make you appreciate the average life she thinks she has? I guess that theme must work it got me to watch. I do so love staying in my PJ's till noon. There is something so great about eating lunch in your PJ's. I think I have reached my limit of veggin, I think I need to do something some what productive. So I think I will go use my gift cards (thanks Mom) and help out the economy. I really feel I must do my part.

Getting out of my box.

2007-12-19T07:18:00.000-08:00

So I went to the Moody campus to take the test. The lady there didn't know I was coming and she was getting ready to leave. I graciously offered to come back another day but she didn't know when I could because they were winding down for the semester. I was very glad she said okay, because I had had nervous eating all day. (even ate Moose Tracks which I don't like and I only ate the Tracks which is that not a gross name for ice cream but I was desperate for chocolate). Then the computers would not work and this lady who was very nice thought that I would think she had broken the computers. She actually said that out loud. I don't think she meant to but I have been around those who have verbally diarrhea so I knew she could not help it. Anyway she called the Pell City campus to see if there's were working and they said I could come over there. As most of you know I am not fond of driving somewhere I have never been before. God is so great because Darrin's brother gave us a TomTom for Christmas so I came by the house and got it and in its gentle soft voice guided me to Pell City at night all by myself, well me and TomTom. So I took the test in the coldest room on the entire planet. It was very hard but I did very well on the English and no great surprise I tanked on the Math. So I survived and I will take either Math or English in the Spring. Happily getting out of my safe, warm box.

Random thoughts

2007-12-17T07:36:00.001-08:00

So I could not sleep last night I hate that I would love to get up and clean. I am truly a night owl, but I can't because everyone else is sleeping. I have to take a college entrance exam tonight and I am a little terrified. It is for Math and Grammar (I think someone said I was a wiz at grammar at least that is how I will interpret it)So say a little pray for my old brain. I will say that I hope by helping Zachary with is 3rd grade Math and Grammar will help.

I have really been missing my grandfather. He loved Christmas and was always so wonderful and generous. Going to his house is still wonderful but I miss him. I still expect to see him there. To see him laugh and the joy he always had when we were all there. I know he is happy in heaven and dancing with my grandmother, but I still miss him. I am so grateful that he was with me for 33 years of my life and both my boys knew him. Zachary still cries for him, this time it was right before his birthday and PawPaw never missed his birthday and he knew he would not be here for it.

I was also thinking last night about all my wreaks. Why you ask? I don't know I have had a lot and sometimes I just can't help but to remember. My first wreck was when I was 15. Mom was with me and we were in a mall parking lot. I ran over the little tree/curb thing at the end of the row and hit one car that push it into two other cars. I pushed the gas instead of the brake. I am still surprise when my Mom rides with me and let's me drive. I guess the whole graceful thing past me buy. I fall down a lot too go figure. I once tried to jump over a chain at a car lot you know the really low ones that go from one post to another and nearly touch the ground in the middle. Well it somehow caught my foot and I flipped and landed on all four's. I scrapped both of my knees and hands. I was dating Darrin at the time so he knew what he was getting into. It was so funny when Quinn came and got my ankle brace the other night for Kim, Darrin and Quinn shared a look of understanding that only a husband of truly graceful women can share.

I needed to make Christmas cookies. I haven't yet and would like to. Maybe tomorrow if any one would like to join me let me know. If you are totally burned out on Christmas cookies I completely understand.

Better.

2007-12-16T11:52:00.000-08:00

We have been sick first the stomach thing then a cold but we are on the mend. We really missed craft day luckily I had not told the kids about it so that didn't know what they missed. I have gotten most of the shopping done the kids went to Mom's this weekend which is always nice but the driving wears me out, but it is worth it to get to go to dinner with my sweetie and walk around Barnes and Noble with him. We actually stayed together and looked together it was really great. We then went shopping all day Saturday, we were not rushed and went from Brookwood Mall to the Galleria to the Summit and enjoyed it so much. The crowds were massive but not to bad. (If the amount of people out were an indication I think the economy is doing just fine) all in all a great weekend, except no community groups others are sick I hope we all get well soon.

Cookies!!!!

2007-12-08T20:51:00.001-08:00

I can't sleep I just got back from the cookies swap and I am high on sugar. It was great fun as always. I think sometimes how hard it used to be for me in those situations. It maybe hard to believe but I was incredible shy growing up. I think that I am still a shy person on the inside but that God has helped me so much I know He wants us to be a body and to be a community and I have learned that you really have to jump in there. I have never had to before I went to one church before for about 4 years and before that only when I was little. So when we moved here I knew that to form relationships is the key, you can't connect with people unless you hang out with them, laugh with them, and eat chocolate with them. It isn't always easy to know people and to make yourself vulnerable is not easy. I think you really have to preach the gospel to yourself and to truly love each other in Christ for it to work as well as it does. I am truly grateful to all the ladies for welcoming me and making me feel at home and loved.

2007-12-08T20:51:00.000-08:00

Zachary is 9!!!

2007-12-04T16:10:00.000-08:00

Zachary turned 9 yesterday . Time is always whizzing by and I can't believe he is 9 now. We went to the movies yesterday with 3 of is friends and the had a great time. They had a 10 to 15 minute conversation about burping and farting (sorry Gingey they did say fart) which then turned into a conversation about Star Wars then my most favorite question of the day was when Ty (who is just the coolest kid) asked who your favorite founding father (of our country) was? How awesome is that and the vote in the car was of course Ben Franklin. Then the next favorite question (once again Ty way cool) who was your favorite Revolutionary War hero? Of course Ty's was George Washington and Zachary's was the German general who helped train the soldiers ( I didn't know this but tis true) We then went to see the Bee Movie very, very funny and very kid friendly which is always so surprising this days. We ate tons of popcorn and they played video games and back in the car for more man speak. We then came home and I had offered to make Zach a cake or bake him a big cookie (love to bake really wanted to) but he said he wanted doughnuts so we got some on the way home and sang Happy Birthday over a doughnut with a 9 candle stuck in the middle. All in all a very good day.

Tis the season.

2007-11-29T07:40:00.000-08:00

So my kids are both stuffy and I always blamed the real tree before so I hope Darrin (he said I can't call him sweet husband anymore but it just fits him so well because he is sweet and so wonderful maybe I will call him wonderful husband?) doesn't notice the runny noses. I think it is just this time of year of course. Which makes me crazy because this is my favorite time of year and I loath being stuck inside with sick kids or my sick self. I love being out in the cold, we went to the park yesterday it was cool and crisp and so beautiful. So maybe we want be to sick and maybe we want be stuck to much. I think time just flies by so quickly it was about a year ago we found out we were going to move and now we have been here almost a year that is so great. I hope I can get everything done for Christmas and I hope to not be to stressed out. I always Christmas shop at the last minute which is so not me but it always seems to work out that way. I mean I have not bought one thing yet for Christmas not one thing crazy I know okay I am going to stop mentioning it I am panicking a little. Happy shopping.

Is it real or fake?

2007-11-28T10:17:00.002-08:00

For 11 years I have wanted a fake tree and my sweet husband has always wanted a real one. Well this year he finally conceited and I have a new beautiful fake tree. No watering the tree or the presents under the tree. No pine needles everywhere forever never able to vacuum them all up EVER!!! I am one happy girl and so excited about my faked tree. Thank you Darrin I know that now that we have one I get to at least have a fake tree for the next 15 to 20 years (according to my PawPaw they can last 30 or more years you have to get your moneys' worth out of it) I am official in the Christmas mood now.