What's a wife to do?

My oh my! My sweet, loving, gentle, kind (READ CRAZY) husband has lost his marbles. I'm not sure what meds he's taking, but they are working :) He's been laughing hysterically (about nothing) for 15 minutes. Even poor Sam dog is looking at me like, "Dad is not right."

I do love his crazy moments though. He can lighten a moment and bring a smile to me face with just about anything he says or does.

Love you, babe! I'll come visit you in the looney bin!

I'm still Thankful!

I have some random thanksgiving to report.

First, it's been a month since I began this blog. I have kept it up, and for that I'm proud! It has become a part of my daily routine. I look forward to blogging. I think it has made me more aware of my surroundings, my daily happenings, my thoughts, feelings. It's a good thing!

Next, I am sooo thankful for my pastors and church that preach God's truth in a way that is applicable to me. Today was an anxiety-filled day. I don't know exactly why, but I was just struggling. My worry engulfed me, and I was down on myself. I just kept going back to a message that Jen gave that said, when you are worried/depressed...praise and worship God. I just began to pray and thank Him for so many blessings in my life. I praised Him for my helping me through trials and struggles of life. God walked me through my anxiety today. That weight has been lifted and I feel restored again.

I am thankful for financial blessings...One of our computers was acting up..we took it in, and it is fixed for FREE!

Yep, that's it for tonight! I feel good.

Happy Birthday, Dad!

In case you haven't already guessed, today is my dad's birthday. I don't even know where to begin. We have always been close, but over the past several years, he has been  dad, friend, encourager, listener, cheerleader, teacher...the list could go on.

I am so lucky to have a dad who loves me know matter what. I appreciate him so very much.

Love you, dad!

Barometric Pressure Stinks!

I've had the "shunt head" all day. Having a shunt comes with some unique "blessings" :) One of those is major headaches when there is a sudden pressure change. We went from mild 50s yesterday to this low pressure pattern which brought much colder temps today. This is the first significant winter system and so the headache came on strong today. (I bet you didn't think you were going to a weather report AND a medical lesson did you?)

So, needless to say, I was a bump on a log today. I somewhat know that I needed this, but the headache could have stayed away. Watched football, caught up on the DVR and read through the Sunday inserts.

And, now, dare I say...the headache is going away. Basically, I just have the 'hangover' feeling. Not that I would know what a hangover feels like ;).

Back to work tomorrow!!! Say it with me, people- 3 WEEKS until Winter Break. I think I hear the angels singing.

I'm still giving Thanks!

One word...Beautiful! That is how all of my friends looked today after their Mary Kay facials. Big shout out to M for being an awesome friend and bringing a crowd with her. Thankful, also, for my MK director who gave of her time to teach, mentor and guide. Jason was such a support through all of the prep, etc., and Sammy was the best behaved puppy I have ever seen.

People begin Mary Kay businesses for so many reasons. Sure, the extra income is appealing, but that wasn't the reason for me. I really wanted to discover an outlet that would grow me! I love that I am building self-confidence and self-esteem. I am learning new things each day!

Thank you, again, to all who made today a success!!!

Check out my Mary Kay webpage

Black Friday at Home

                              This is how I spent my Black Friday. 
 

I'll have you know that the garland is made by ME...yes, the crafty came out!

 

 

Can I just tell you that I'm doing a little happy dance now that I figured out how to upload photos? It's still a bit of a challenge, but that's why I have tech savvy family members (who just happen to be traveling to the Rock for New Years). I will be picking their brains, believe you me.

I am so blessed to have a wonderful hubby who helps his wife clean when she gets the cleaning bug (at 8:00 AM). Love that we worked as a team to clean, clean, clean. Fun times resting and relaxing the rest of the day.

Yep, I love him!

Happy Thanksgiving!

To all of my family and friends, near and far, may you be blessed this Thanksgiving. I am thankful for so many things. I love you all!

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 23

My heart is filled! I just spent an hour listening to worship music. What a wonderful way to prepare my heart for Thanksgiving. I have so much to be thankful for today and always. So often I drift away from the very core of my being. I try to live in ME time and do things MY way. God always has other plans for my life. He calls me back, and fills me whole again. I am so thankful for my loving Father who would forgive and love like nothing has happened. His grace and mercy covers me, and I am new!

Today was enjoyable. I decided to venture out and do a little shopping. Met up with Steph and Logan at Target. Not many days where I walk into Target and hear, "Tee Tee, you at Target with me!" As we perused the Christmas aisles, Logan announces, "This is sooooo fun!" Oh to have the heart of a child! Needless to say, Tee Tee had to spoil him a little bit. He saw a Lightening McQueen ornament and fell in love. Of course his mommy and I tried to steer him to the plastic one, but the blown glass one was much more to his liking. "I be real careful."...and he was!

Then I was off to find my supplies for my holiday craft project. Here comes the thankful for today.....wait for it...The least crafty girl I know (ME) made an adorable paper garland for the mantle. Pinterest made me do it! I am so proud of my little garland. Thankful that my small talent can shine through once in awhile! :)

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 22

So many things to be thankful for today. First, today starts our Thanksgiving Break! Can I get an AMEN? I am ready for a break. After school I had an appointment for haircut and color. AHHH. Oh how I love getting my hair did. :) I have a wonderful stylist. I truly have no attachment to my hair so I always just say "do whatever". It's fun to see the finished product since I don't really have a vision going in.

And, this may seem really silly, but God answered one of my prayers...it's what I would call a little ridiculous, but apparently, He didn't think so. Last night as I sat and listened to worship music and had my quiet time, I found myself listening to several Kari Jobe songs. (If you haven't heard her, look her up, FAST!) What a voice! Well, as I was listening, I thought to myself how I would love to see Kari Jobe in concert for a live worship experience. So, I found myself asking God to bring Kari Jobe to Rockford. A little selfish...perhaps. BUT, guess who's coming to Rockford??? Kari Jobe! At my church, no less....on Jason's birthday. AMEN!!!!! God listens; even to the small stuff. I am thankful for the opportunity to worship with this awesome woman of God, who I believe, has the voice of an angel.

Thankful for so many things in this life.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 21

Ouch! I don't know how I slept last night, but I woke up with my back in oh so much pain. It's the area where I have my bulging disc. I managed to move around all day, but when I sat down for parent conferences it started to throb!!! So, I grabbed the tylenol and Ibuprophen. Not much relief..So, tonight I am ever so thankful for Tylenol with Codeine. Relief is on the way. :)

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 20

Let's just recap the weekend...Gamecocks win, Packers win, Bears win, Tony Stewart wins the chase, ,US Team wins the President's Cup, Panthers lose (big surprise..LOL). I can't believe how my life has changed. I went from a sports observer (if I had to) to a sports lover. Not only do I watch, but I understand what the heck I am watching. It's a fabulous thing.

Today we brought the Christmas tree up from the basement along with all of the Christmas boxes. I can't believe the holiday season is upon us. It makes me get this warm fuzzy feeling. I just want to bottle up the happiness and emotion and save it for one of those days where I need a little pick-me-up.

I'm slowly ( and I mean slowly) beginning my Mary Kay business. I am very excited to start on this venture, but it brings about self-doubt and feelings of insecurity. I am very thankful for a kind and sweet director who is there as encouragement. My husband has been my rock through this process. He's talked with me, encouraged me, prayed with me...so many might think, it's just a side job. But, for me, it's a chance to build self-confidence, break out of some negative thought patterns, serve women in a special way that makes them feel special and beautiful on the outside, just as they are on the inside. Keep praying for me!

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 19

Spent today with family. That is a perfect Saturday in my book. Lunch with dad and after, ran errands with him. He and Jason always make me laugh. They are crazy.

This morning, I stopped over to G & G's house. Grandma had picked up a really cute wall sign for me (Please snow! I'm a teacher.) LOL. It's proudly placed on our front door. While I was there I got a brief geneology lesson. It is so cool to hear about your family roots and where you came from. I love hearing stories that I've never heard before. Makes me realize how much family means.

And after that nice sentiment, I am thankful for bills that come in the mail that say we owe nothing due to overage in the account. HAPPY DAY, HAPPY DAY!

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 18

TGIF! TGIF! TGIF! I am just so thankful that today is Friday, and I made it through this long and hectic week. It's so wonderful to know that I can just rest, relax and not think of anything too serious for a couple of days. Well, I think I am thankful that I posted this before I am a complete zombie..seeing as this short post has taken me like 10 minutes to write thanks to all of my spelling errors and typos. This might be my cue to take a bow and exit stage right. Tomorrow I'll be back with more reflection. Until then, sweet dreams (I know, it's so sad for a Friday night to be thinking about bed at 6:45pm)

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 17

It was a very busy day. Came back from Madison in time to go to school for parent conferences this evening. Just got home at 8:00. As we drove back from Madison, the radio blaring (and Jason napping LOL), I was taken with the beauty of our Earth. Fall is by far my favorite season. I know that so many think road trip are boring with no scenery other than farm land. That's what I love! It was gorgeous to see the mostly bare trees with just a few lingering leaves. The sun was shining and making the empty fields glisten. It was the perfect fall drive. I am thankful that I get to see our lovely Earth from so many different vantage points.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving~ Day 16

Tonight, I'm in a hotel room in Madison. Jason is having a sleep study, so that means I am in a hotel room...and to tell you the truth, I am so okay with that. Of course I'd prefer to have Jason near me, but after this crazy week I've had (am having), I needed some real quiet time. No school work, no, household chores, no crazy puppy...just me. I've spent time with God..just Him and me. Talking...praising...hoping. I can't tell you how much I needed this mini recharge. Now, I know that God is with me always, but to be able to essentially shut out the world around me and just have focus..it's very special. So, I'm thankful for my timeouts. My heart is full of love, praise and adoration for a mighty God. Gone is the stress, anxst and worry.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 15

I am ready for the speed boat to slow down. It's been a whirlwind of a week (and we aren't half-way through it). There is so much that I could be doing right now. I finally just made myself stop and sit. I ended up just reflecting on the small things that get lost when life is busy....the way Jason will just lovingly look at me, how Sammy rolls over for some rubby and smiles. When life gets busy, it's time to stop and think about everything else. I am thankful for the small part of life that help make my world go round!

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 14

I'm thankful for a quiet evening at home. After the crazy weekend, I just need a night to recharge the batteries.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 13

For all of you who were wondering...(and a hush falls over the crowd)...report cards are finished!!!

Just spoke with dad. He is safely on the bus back from O'Hare. This weekend was Matt and Laura's wedding in Dallas. Dad was able to attend. It sounds as if he had a great time. I can't wait to see pictures from the events. Even though I wasn't able to attend, my heart was there. Many blessings to Matt and Laura today and always.

Church was wonderful this morning. Love to sing praise and hear a applicable message.

After hearing the message at church this morning, I am thankful for good health. Yes, there have been some adversities over the years for Jason especially, but it's important to remember that God is bigger than all of that. We have been blessed with healthy bodies that allow us to do so much.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 12

So, I'm a day late..had some password problems (mainly, I forgot what it was LOL). Saturday was spent working on school work. It's report card weekend, and I am more than a little overwhelmed. I am so thankful that I could spend the day in my jammies, working on report cards and watching the Gamecocks win!!! It's simple, but it makes me happy,

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 11

Wow! What an evening. Tonight was "Original" night at church. Original is the women's ministry at Rockford First. It was a wonderful evening of worship, teaching and fellowship. I love the Lord with all my heart, but sometimes (ok, more often than not), I decide to try and do things MY way. I think that my timing is better and my ideas are best. And then, times like tonight occur.

I am thankful beyond words that I don't have to do things my way, and when I try, God loves me anyway. I serve a mighty God who loves me for me. He yearns to transform my mind and heart. Without God, I'd be lost. I am thankful for a church that exists to build up a body of people that live for Christ. I am thankful for wonderful pastors who speak the truth. I am thankful for friends at church who encourage me, listen and pray.

I am blessed to feel the love of God. His only son gave His life so that I may live. That is profound. My prayer is that I live each day in such a way that is pleasing to God. There is no fear of having to be perfect, only the prayer that every day is spent living out His plan for me.

God created me for a purpose. He made me original.

Thoughts of Thankgiving ~ Day 10

Well, a full day it was. Just got home a little while ago from serving Thanksgiving Dinner to our families at school. It was a wonderful experience. I served corn (LOTS of corn). Many of my students past and present were there with their families. It's so funny to watch my little babies (kinders) come in the gym and see you there doing something other than teaching. (They mainly think I exist only in our classroom from 8-2). After my serving detail, I was able to visit with many parents. That is why I love what I do. Just when I think I can be of encouragement to them, they encourage me! I'm so thankful that I was able to fellowship with our families. God makes us all. We all have different circumstances, but we all desire the same thing...a friendly smile, a warm hug, a heartfelt word... This is just what I needed to end my work week. (No school tomorrow..YIPPEE).

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 9

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow! The first flakes flew today. It only lasted about 20 minutes, but it is a sign of things to come. I know that many don't share this sentiment, but I love living in a place where I experience all 4 seasons. I know that Fall is my favorite season, with winter/spring a close second and third. Summer, it's nice, but I would like it better if I could keep it at an even 80 and low humidity. HAHA.

So, I guess today I am thankful for God's beautiful world. It's awesome to know that He created everything I see each day.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 8

I have been taking part in SMARTboard training at school. One of our teachers is a certified SMART trainer. She has been A-MAZ-ING in helping me make sense of this new technology. The roughest part of all of this?? I don't have a SMARTboard..yet. I am thankful that new technology will make learning more interactive for my students. I have a LOT to learn, but I will keep learning.

OK....on a side note...Michelle Dugger is having baby # 20! Wow. My first thought is CRAZY. But, the more I read and listen to them...what a blessing. It may not be for everyone, but this family makes it work.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 7

Might be strange, but I come from a family who has a love for words. Crosswords, crypto-grams, word searches and other word games. I fondly remember watching Grandma Marg doing her word searches or sharing a book with me called "Anguished English". It's fun to go to Grandma and Bumpa's house on any day and see a crossword going. Sunday crosswords are the best..they each do half (how cute is that?). I remember my mom coming home from working 11p-7a and straining to keep her eyes open while she struggled to figure out the crypto-gram.

Now, I find myself developing a love of words. Whether it's a simple crossword (I'm still at the EASY ones) or a quote I happen upon. I love words. I LOVED writing college papers (yea, I know..I'm one of those..) because I could experiment with words.

So, in a very odd way, I'm thankful for the gift of expression. Words are powerful. They can make one laugh, cry, remember, think, etc. It's the one thing that once said, you can never take back. My family has instilled the love of words in me. (hmmmm...blog idea...What's the Word Wednesday).

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 6

Happy Sunday! Today I am thankful for wonderful quality time with Grandma and Bumpa. I love to hear their stories. Thankful for a whirlwind cleaning adventure and a fabulous fresh- smelling house! Ahh..Sundays!

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 5...and other musings

Let me just begin with...don't forget to set your clocks back tonight (ok, the reminder is mostly for me, but consider yourself in the loop) :-)

What does one do when you wake up on a Saturday morning with a headache?? Grocery shop, of course! I must admit that hitting Walmart at 7:00 AM is sort of a thrill. It was also thrilling that I didn't get stopped at any red lights from Alpine and State all the way out to Walmart on State. (If you know anything about Rockford you know that is a small miracle). So, grocery shopping finished, I came home and hung out with my hubby and then took a nap HAHA. Later, it's off for coffee with my BFF Steph. The only chick I know who can make me laugh about nothing!

I digress. So thankful today for my cutie pie "nephew" Logan. Ok, he's not my nephew by blood, but the closest I will ever come (one of the downers of being an only child). Anyway, Logan is the sweetest boy I've ever met. It melts my heart every time he calls me "tee-tee" or says, "I love you". He has taught me so much about patience, gentleness and loving unconditionally. I love you, Logers!

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Day 4

Short and sweet! I am thankful for my new-found love...PINTEREST. The technology people always amaze me. Why don't I think up this stuff? If ever you need a break from the real world for hours upon hours then pinterest is your best friend.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving~Day 3

I've always wanted to be a teacher. Ever since I can remember I have yearned to make a difference in the life of children. I don't do it for the accolaides. Watching a student experience that "ah-ha" moment is reason enough. Or when a former student walks by in the hall and says, "I remeber learning about ___."

The more years I spend in education, I realize that I learn more and more from my students than they will ever learn from me. I love my career. It's not just a job...it's a choice!

Thoughts of Thanksgiving~Day 2

There are many people in my life who have influenced me and helped me become the woman I am today. I think of my parents who instilled in me the values and morals that I hold so dear. My extended family has provided love, laughter, shared joys and sorrows. My hubby, Jason, has taught me what true love is. There are special friendships that I hold dear. Those friends have been, through so many times, a sounding board, a place to vent judgement free, a place to laugh and be quirky. Every time I walk into my classroom I think of Mrs. Starr, my 3rd/4th grade teacher. She is the reason I am a teacher. My puppy has taught me what unconditional love is. Sam dog can make the worst day the best.

To realize that so many people have surrounded me just "because" is overwhelming. Each day I thank God for each and every one of you. I am forever blessed!

A Month of Thanksgiving

During the month of November, I will be counting down the days to the Thanksgiving holiday by giving thanks for things in my life. Yes, I am thankful each and every day, but I think it's important to write them out and acknowledge all things. Some big and some more subtle and personal. So, without further a do....

Today I am thankful for my mom. Today would have been her 59th birthday. I can't believe how the time has flown by. I miss you each day, but I am eternally blessed knowing that I will see you again in Heaven. Oh, how my heart aches for you some days. I close my eyes and can still see your smile, feel your hands hugging me and smell your unique smell. It makes me feel such peace knowing that you have left the troubles of our Earth behind to live in peace in Heaven.

I am thankful for Jason and my dad who remembered this day, as well. Jason was so sweet to get me a card and small gift as a remembrance of you. Dad came to spend time with me and treated us to dinner. These men have supported me and loved me through the good times and the bad, the happy and the sad.

Thank you, Father, for the gift of my mom. You gave her purpose here on Earth and then brought her home to You when her job was done. You have equipped those in my life with the right words, the calming hug and comforting smile to help ease the pain. I pray that I can shine the light that is Your love to those around me. I love you, AMEN!