meet me by the water

Little Girl's Birthday Wish

2012-01-31T05:26:00.000-08:00

breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

This just makes me want to cry and cry for happiness for this little girl.
What a sweet sweet homecoming!!!

Simply Put

2012-01-30T21:01:00.000-08:00

Over the course of the life of my blog...I sometimes hit speed bumps. Places in the road where I either hit a pot hole (or four), come headlights to eyeballs with a deer, or veer completely off course and crash into a tree. Then again, that's part of what I use my blog for. Journaling is one of my therapies. Typing a blog post is similar, yet out there for everyone to see. I suppose, though, I shouldn't be ashamed. I shouldn't worry about who sees this or that. I am who I am. God has made me this one certain way for a reason. And perhaps there is something in this for another to learn from. The part in my bio that says "keep you thankful for the life you lead." In other words, I am NOT PERFECT.

The end of 2011 and now, the beginning of 2012 has brought me to a place where I have begun to ask more of God and what He would have me to do in this life He has given. I guess I've finally found the point in my life where I'm opening my heart to Him and letting Him take more of the lead. Always, I've held a place for him in my home. But have I always done that in my heart? No. So why all this time, trying to go it alone? I don't have the answer. I don't think I need the answer. Maybe it will come later. In the future.

The photo above has a simple, rustic, genuine, even broken and put back together feel to it. That's been my heart lately, and I wanted to share.

1/22 week in review

2012-01-29T14:21:00.000-08:00

Another fast paced week. We had three home conference games for my daughter, and all three ended up nail biters! We swept Bloomington Central Catholic for the season, which is a tremendous feat! It's been an exciting end of the season, and we hope post season goes well! Senior night coming up this week.

Work is going well. I'm just getting started on some of the weekly reports that are sent to coaches, and am starting to realize the challenge ahead. At this point, I'm still motivated and encouraged to make a difference. More than anything, I'm thankful to get back working in academia. Awards night coming up in Feb that I am able to be a part of. The 'good side' of monitoring!!

Sharing the office space with the baseball staff is proving...interesting. I'll do my best to deal with whatever comes my way, but I'm really looking forward to their upcoming travel dates so I can better work with less riff raff going on in the background. It will be a nice break.

We have come upon the third night of "discover crosspoint" this evening. FOOD night! Always gotta eat, right!?

The eyes have it...

2012-01-29T14:08:00.001-08:00

Both of my kids...apparently have great eyes. Of course- I already knew this. It is...in fact....a fact. However...this week we have found that others completely agree. First of all Kelsey is voted "best eyes"-girl category for senior superlatives. Hence the eyebrow waxing job (photo attached). Late night after a tough game I hack at the wayward strands and stubborn stubble.

THEN we find out later in the week that our son has a new nickname among the cheerleaders. Yep. They are all over him apparently because he has the longest darkest eyelashes ever! Confused at being called "eyelashes" he was comforted by fellow members of the cc team...a few of whom are girls and couldn't help but side with the rah's. Eyebrows it is!

I'm not sure how it all happened. But if two different combinations can turn out so well....I guess we did something right! ;)

Faster Than Kudzu

2012-01-28T08:34:00.000-08:00

I love everything about those three words. First of all, it's true. Kudzu is one of the fastest, most aggressive growing plants...um....foilages....um....ok, WEED that grows in the south. It sometimes can strangle the most beautiful bushes and trees. It mostly grows along the roadways, and has been mentioned at the state plant of Georgia. But it isn't. It's just a nasty weed that devours everything slow moving in it's path. So when you say....."she moved faster thank kudzu" that's really a compliment. Cause it means you are really really fast. And aggressive.

Back to my reason for this post. Joshilyn Jackson wrote one of my favorite novels, "God's in Alabama". It's one of the novels on my shelf that gets read multiple times. When loaned out, I give whichever friend the eye. You know, the EYE...that says, 'this book...is a top shelf book...therefore MUST be returned!' Right now Nikie has it. I trust her. She had my signed copy of "Coming up for Air" by PCH. She will return Gods in Bama.

This past summer, when meeting PCH...I also met Joshilyn. She signed my copy of "Backseat Saints". She is a sweet, down to earth, fan loving, literary inspiration. On my way home that trip, I listened to her audio book "The Girl Who Stopped Swimming". She narrated it. I was immediately immersed in the words speaking to me during the (I won't mention dreaded) trip home. She grips you with suspense, love, and mystery in her stories.

"A Grown Up Kind Of Pretty" is the same way. Just released a week ago, this novel is sure to be the next addition to my bookshelf. I can see myself in the summer hammock out back, reading till almost dusk. I'll get it now. Read it later. You can read about it here. Joshilyns blog.....faster than kudzu.

Winter deck

2012-01-28T08:12:00.001-08:00

Eureka Sweeps BCC this season

2012-01-28T07:48:00.001-08:00

And its a WIN!!!

2012-01-26T19:44:00.001-08:00

Eureka lady hornets beat Bloomington central catholic tonight....48-45. Now tying for first place in the corn belt conference with bcc and uhigh! I love our tough conference play action for our girls!!!!!!!

look again....

2012-01-26T05:26:00.000-08:00

2012-01-24T05:24:00.000-08:00

It's one of those phases where the bad news on the news hits my heart. First JoePa, now the tornadoes. Again. Everytime I hear of this kind of weather down there, I cannot help but think 'what if we had actually moved down there? would we be among the ones picking up the pieces? would we have survived?'. I know you cannot live life thinking that way. It is not my intention to do so. However, the south in me prevails, and I cannot help but feel a part of 'home' has once again been scarred.

I'd go again in a heartbeat if I thought I could be any help at all....

Amber Butler walks through the wreckage of her home in Oak Grove, Ala., on Monday. Jefferson County sheriff's spokesman Randy Christian said severe storms produced a possible tornado that moved across the county around 3:30 a.m., causing damage in Oak Grove, Graysville, Fultondale, Center Point, Clay and Trussville

I told you...

2012-01-22T13:13:00.001-08:00

Scroll to Top

Worthy of a Re-post

2012-01-22T12:53:00.000-08:00

Joe Paterno will live on in the hearts of many.

1/15 week in review

2012-01-22T12:39:00.000-08:00

First week of the semester. Monday was spent at home. Being Martin Luther King's Birthday, I was able to spend the day at home with the kiddos in and out. I organized my office space in the den downstairs, and have things just about ready to go for 2011 tax prep.

Tuesday came with a bang. I am convinced the first week of the semster at work is probably the craziest, most frustrating week(s) possible. However, some very good things happened this week. I have gained access to my new, though temporary, office (shared with baseball coaches..yeah....that's what I thought too) :) that will be used for athletic academic monitoring. I'll be running reports, notifiying coaches and instructors, and meeting with athletes as part of my new duties for the Athletic Director. I'm thrilled and excited to have the new opportunity and challenge. I have some hills ahead, but am eager to get going with things this coming wednesday. Training from a colleage on access and reports, and the ever dreaded application: excel. Hey. Whatever I gotta do to make a difference. My goal is to get thru to a few student athletes, and turn some nasty habits around. Of course, drop kicking some into next decade might have to be part of the process, I was given the blessing of three coaches to use whatever means necessary to get thru to them. Of course, colorful language always has an impact, but coming from me...? Like I say, it's gonna be a ride!!!

While complications with the log in and scan software system we use at the plex has me entering visits completely by hand, yet I am in no way behind in my work. Perseverance and determiniation had me with my game face on, and work ethic on it's highest setting. When there is work to be done, I have the end goal in mind. No riff raff, and no joke. Let me at it, and I'll chat later. Payroll, workloads, PO's, new members, and visits logged...DONE. Now, that's not to say there won't be a big batch of items waiting for me on monday. But I'm pretty sure putting out BON fires is now behind me. At least until August.

Also at work, coordination of my very first hiring committee ended with a bang! We ended up being able to hire all three candidates of which we are desperately in need of at the plex. Thankful for good management in bear and garber, I had been able to organize all areas of the process...and leave the big decisions to them! Thrilled and honored to have been chosen and for the experience gained.

I finished my first week of official training for future races this summer, via retired CC coach H. I'm so excited to have him and his expertise on my side! So far so good, and 10 running miles logged my first week! Success! Now to keep on for week two...

Finally began reading a biography. Between work now, training, and my kids' games.....reading has become very back burner. By the time my head has hit the pillow each night this week, I have been more than ready to shut my eyes immediately. Thankful for a warm, cozy hubby to snuggle up to!

Some more snow this week, which does not make me tame down the cries for spring. However, I did notice one day this week, it was almost 5pm, yet the sun was still visibly setting deep into the horizon. Glows in the rest of the sky hinted towards the very very first bits of possible spring signs.

New nails and time at the Barnes and Nobles yesterday. After my long week, I felt necessary to treat myself just a bit. Topped off with a spinach and artichoke quiche. Perfection.

A busy week ahead with home games, and fun times at the plex again. BRING IT!

Joe Pa vs The Bear

2012-01-22T07:28:00.000-08:00

Giving your life for your life's passion

2012-01-22T07:02:00.000-08:00

"Do what you love, love what you do..."

It's simple. One leads to the other. If cause and effect are so obvious, of course we would provide more positive cause in our lives. Who doesn't want positive effects!? We aren't all fortunate enough to do and work in areas that are most fulfilling. Maybe that's not the main part of what makes up our days, but if we can even dabble in those bits of passion, life is just that much sweeter. And we understand those with similar passions. We identify, and get it.

When you have that, say....100%. And you're successful. And you're a legend in what you do.....what happens when that is taken from you in swift and seemingly unfair ways? Life fades. And sometimes quicker than what any human can fathom.

Prayers for JoePa.

10,11,12

2012-01-20T17:38:00.001-08:00

I will always love these three girlies to death!!

8th grade night

2012-01-20T17:37:00.001-08:00

Think about your thankful list...

2012-01-20T05:07:00.001-08:00

Surround yourself with positive, genuine, and authentic people- and you'll understand more of your own positive, genuine, authentic self.
-me

Lately with my people at work, and influences at church, along with my family of in-laws I am learning that you definitely are what you surround yourself with. The energy that flows from those around you, afffects you more than you might realize. I am especially thankful for the fact that, right now, in this moment of my life...I have many many good people that care for me, and are working WITH, not against me.

And remember:
"What if today, God only gave you what you were thankful for yesterday?"
Remember your blessings, and be thankful for them!!! Even the small things, cause they add up quick!

I ended on this tonight..

2012-01-17T22:17:00.001-08:00

"every living person should be forced to write an autobiography. They should have to go back and unravel and disclose all the stuff that was packed into their lives. Finding the unusual way authors put ideas into words gives me a very satisfying knowledge that I could do this too if I focused on it. It might help me release the pressure I feel from stored up memories that are affecting me now. But I do something terribly wrong. I tell myself I'm too controlled by my past habits. I really want to write about my life, the close friends I knew, the family life we had, but I hold back. If I would be totally honest, I think I could reach a point where I'd begin seeing ME in a more understandable light. Now I'm jumpy in my recollected thought, yet I know it would be nothing but good for me to do this.". Excerpt from Diane Keaton's book "THEN AGAIN".

Above is one of the passages she takes from one of her mothers 80 some personal journals and expounds on it in her newest autobiography. So far...this book is amazing and I'm seeing a lot of myself in Diane's mother...

The Wall

2012-01-16T21:18:00.000-08:00

You've heard the phrase...."I hit the wall". Most times this comes to play when someone runs a marathon. About mile 20, though for me I'd think hitting the wall would happen much much sooner :) Sometimes we plateau with weight loss. "I just can't loose those last few pounds." Or how about when you are trying to talk to a teenager, and you get the blank stare....."it's like talking to a brick wall." A writer who get's "writers block." It's all the same.

Well.....here's food for thought for you this week:

"HOW you transcend the wall, as a runner, or a musician, (or anything else for that matter) defines who you are." -Ben Gibbard musician and marathoner.

Dressing for the Golden Globes

2012-01-16T20:55:00.000-08:00

Here's a peek at just a few of my favorites!

Evan Rachel Wood

Clarie Danes

Zooey Deschanel

Link to all photos can be found here.

1/8 Week in Review

2012-01-16T06:18:00.001-08:00

(A day late)

I knew I was missing something....my days this past week flew by. Getting geared up for the new semester at work and starting some new projects, I worked some OT, and got an extra day in. The facility is starting to buzz again with athletes, and new students wanting to get in shape for the new year. Coaches are coming back, and baseball preseason has begun. They travel to Baton Rouge in less than three weeks, opening day. Hard to believe, but glad to know that's one of the biggest signs of spring. The start of baseball. Though not at all a baseball fan, I have it in my life every day. Guess I'm a fan by default. Wishing the cougar baseball team a great 2012 season!

A coworker and I did escape the chicken coop and travel a day to Chicago. An unfortunate glitch on the day of our first planned trip, we rescheduled, and had a great time together. It was good to go, and good to come home. I do enjoy heading to AI with someone who enjoys it as much as I do!

An evening with Joyce and her friends. Pizza and wine in and some good talk. She's enjoying her retirement, and looking at starting some art appreciation classes at the art guild in Normal. Teaching the history of art comes best from her, and whomever crosses her path will gain much in her knowledge and passion for the arts.

Trying to keep up with my daily reading, and attending some informational classes at Crosspoint. It's a good time to reflect, recommit, and reconnect. All that with local people, and friends we know....priceless. We've found a church home, and are thankful for the blessings that produces. A good time last night, and some new friendships will surely be forged from the process.

The first snow came this week. Hopefully the last. I know, I'm such a scrooge when it comes to snow. I'm fine with trudging on towards spring, and keeping the warm feelings going.

Golden Globes. I'm not afraid to say. I enjoyed watching the dresses, the hunks, and the beauties.

Here's to the start of a new week, new projects, new endeavors. A day (today) to organize the year past...lots of paperwork to sift thru and organize. Celebrating MLK and freedom from clutter!

Habits can be good

2012-01-15T11:07:00.001-08:00

Girls in my kitchen....

2012-01-14T20:06:00.000-08:00

How do you lure four teenage girls into your home (yes, willingly)? Food. That's right. Just post on facebook that you made a bunch of new recipes off pinterest, and wham! Your kitchen is full of laughing, beautiful girls. Another way to stave off the blahs.....

Fighting the Funk

2012-01-14T17:41:00.000-08:00

That moment when you feel a funk coming on, and you realize you really just MUST do all you can do to fight your way out of it. But you know it's going to be like trying to tread water when you don't know how to swim....trying to drive up an icy hill with bad tires...or walk up a down escalator. Near impossible.

This is when I bring out my weapons. The fight. Will it be worth it? Will it work? Or am I just destined for a few days of 'pleasejustdon'tbothermecauseIreallydon'twanttodealwithitrightnow' kind of mood?

I'm currently telling myself...'go run, fill your journal with thoughts, get into a good book, do SOMETHING but sit here and feel like this.'

So here goes....

Olympic trials marathon

2012-01-14T15:18:00.001-08:00

Sean Houseworth ran in today's Olympic trials in Texas. After being 5th overall he ended up dropping out of the race at mile 20. What an unfortunate thing but good for him to stay healthy. Sean is an eureka grad and is one of those professional athletes that represents this area with class. Hopefully next time....watch his interview here.
I had to bring to my sons attention that no runner wore 5 fingers during a 26.2 road race!

Visit Spike

2012-01-13T05:41:00.000-08:00

My blog (this blog) typically average 30-50 pageviews a day. This morning I log in and have 170 pageviews yesterday??? That's an unusually large spike in visits. I'm afraid to know....!

A day in the city

2012-01-12T19:14:00.001-08:00

The Art Institute is calling...!

"The Three Graces" exhibit...our fave!!

Vickie and I. One of my bestest work buddies!

Peach Bellinis at Terazo Piano in modern wing of AI

Saturdays at hammers..oh wait, Sunday at La Grande Jatte :)

Grande Lux Cafe

Michigan Ave!!

Along those lines...

2012-01-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

from Pinterest

Let's roll

2012-01-11T05:51:00.000-08:00

Gettin' my rap fix, with some bama fun in the process!

yelawolf with kid rock!

*adult content, sorry! I am only human!*

Gifts of Laughter and Counsel

2012-01-11T05:43:00.000-08:00

Gifts. We all have them. Some can calm, some can motivate. Some can sing, some can play. Some can teach, some can influence. Some can heal, some can kill.

What are your gifts? Those certain things that naturally come out of your daily living, natural personality, or automatic existance. I certainly feel I have a 'knack' for certain things. I enjoy design, art, and overall home/fashion design. Am I gifted at any of it? I wouldn't say that. I'd grown up pretty much thinking I didn't have much of any gifts at all, and was just fine with that. I didn't play ball, I wasn't smart, I never felt pulled in a certain way to direct my life.

And that, possibly is some of the reason that as an adult I still feel like I'm still growing up! But as of recent, some of my 'gifts' have shown their worth. At least, that's what I'm calling them. I seem to have this uncanny way of popping in with a few words, or a line that gets everyone in the conversation rolling with laughter. I've recently been told that I'm about the funniest person they know. Now, that might be a stretch, or that person has been around really REALLY dull people their whole life, but it is something that has gotten me thinking.

Never NEVER did I take myself as a people person. I enjoy my job. I enjoy the people I work around. Sometimes I think they bring out the best in me. It might be my effort in having a different perspective as well, but I'll credit them anyways! Recently, being away from the advising portion of my job has had me missing it terribly. I've been told by a few former advisees that they wish I was still their advisor, I have athletes coming to me for advice, our AD rushes to me in a pinch when she needs to get an ill english speaking transfer volleyball recruit coming to US on a visa a fitting schedule, matching her abilities.... All that is easy to me. I can easily relate to students, and I have a soft place for athletes as both of my kids are busy with extra-carriculiars, and I understand the harried schedules of athletes. In and out of season.

All of those abilities mesh perfectly into a position of advising. A gift of counsel. So funny, because about 8 years ago I took the myers briggs inventory test. On the final outcome, it stated I should be a counselor, clergy, advisor, teacher...ANYthing dealing with the guidance of people. At the time I was dumbfounded. NEVER had I seen myself this way.

What led me to going back to school? The desire to achieve. The desire to finish something I'd started years ago, but had put on hold. And quite frankly, the desire to prove a few people in my life wrong. That I COULD do it. Looking back, I now realize one of the reasons I really did go back to school was to find myself. Figure out who I was. Other than a wife, and mother of course. But also to figure out what my gifts were.

Feeling a sense of 'relate' to the athletic dept, I accepted a part time job to help pay for school as I continued on my journey towards my degree. Upon completion, I had an amazing opportunity to take an advising postion. Even at the time I worried I wouldn't be able to do it. I didn't realize I'd be any good at it. However, those around me...mentors, instructors, and deans saw a former student who understood the in's and out's of being a student. They saw me as someone I really was, and not who I thought I was...still lacking any talent. It isn't until that talent is tested do we finally understand, we've found it.

Amazingly I caught on quickly and formulated my own ways with students. It was a quick, and easy transition and I was able to help a number of students overcome obstacles they never thought could be lifted. Those moments just feed the desire to do more, advise more, and in turn- learn more.

Being comfortable in my position has enabled me to work on and polish other areas of my life. And apparently, at this season of life, that is to keep the fun in life, and make those around me happy with laughter!

My wish for everyone is that they too can come to a point in life where they see and understand their own talents, gifts, knacks.... And be comfortable in that, so that all areas of their life can be touched in similar positive ways.

A little en--courage--ment

2012-01-10T19:43:00.000-08:00

Can't help it. A little astrology for the new year......A couple have hit target fairly dead on. This one- today. BINGO.

Your energy levels are getting higher, so make sure that you're dealing with the projects and people that mean the most to you. You're on a roll, and things are just getting better!

Today I received encouraging news from the dean of students regarding a new aspect of my job at ICC. Athletic monitoring might be sooner in my future than I was starting to think....And this, that I read this morning...has that written all over it!

In addition, today I turned down the opportunity to interview for a different position....all in faith that what news I received today is a definite step in the right direction, and that I am where I am meant to be...

All Your Life

2012-01-10T19:33:00.000-08:00

And then there is The Band Perry.....

yup, it's a song kind of night:)

Life in a Northern Town

2012-01-10T19:29:00.000-08:00

As much as I would love to be living in a southern town, this song has gotten my attention.

Love sugarland, and LOVE the meledeys to this one!

Leavin on a jet plane...

2012-01-10T17:28:00.001-08:00

What a beautiful sky we have been having lately. Not only beautifully haloed moons at night but also those crisp blue skies where traces of white flit around during the sunny days.

Tonight's the night!!

2012-01-09T14:33:00.001-08:00

Roll tide!!

Hill Seeker, go for it!

2012-01-09T05:30:00.000-08:00

Be a Hill Seeker:
Most of us try to avoid hills, but what's so good about flat? Think about it: flat tires, flat hair, flat returns, and- the ultimate- flatlining. Life happens on the hills. They're oppostunities to prove to yourself that you're stronger than you ever imagined. If you never attempt the ascent, you'll never know the trill of swooshing down the other side.
-from SELF magazine Jan. 2012

I have to add....there IS balance. Some of us don't have to seek out the hills. The hills somehow have an uncanny way of finding US. But this is good advice for those who, after a while, realize running the flats is too easy.

1/1 Week in Review

2012-01-08T12:34:00.000-08:00

So week one down. I have to say, pretty decent start to the new year. I have high hopes and good feelings about 2012. Not sure I had any feelings concerning the beginnings of the past few years. Maybe my positive outlook will make things different.

Started out the year making a clean slate with a few things. Not just house and home, but internally and emotionally as well. I'm not a resolution maker, and I try to lay off the list making a bit, but a few goals this year include living a more appreciative, thankful, and peaceful life. I know most of my frustration is brought on myself. I've decided to make a change and live more simply and make gratitiude a priority. Should help stave off frustration, even when things I can't control come whipping my way.

Work is good. I'm in the process of taking over the role of Athlete Monitoring, and gearing up for students to start back in their PhyEd classes in a couple weeks. I try my hardest to keep my big grumbly boss happy (that's more of a joke than anything)...and on track with paperwork. I'm sure I annoy him at times, but I'd rather he annoyed with me, than others annoyed at him. Or so that's my goal with my job. I do work with some of the greatest people around. It's becoming like a family there, and I'm grateful to have a job and be in a position to grow. I just do wish the growth was happening a bit more quickly! Soon the big guy will be out on the field prepping for homegames, and we will begin a season of sports camps again!

I feel more energized this year. Mostly because I've gotten my lazy carcass up on the treadmill on a higher setting these past few days. Running has been a bit easier, and I'm tackling it slowly, but hey...I'm tackling it. I definitely notice a difference in running with even just a few less pounds. It's amazing how complacency and unawareness can sneak up on your hips and rob you of freedom you have known in the past. My hope is to hit treadmill workouts hard on my days off, and really watch what I eat during my work weeks. I have another 5-8lbs to loose, and am hopeful I can accomplish that sooner than later and not let any of that past 10 sneak back.

Keeping friends close. That was a hopeful goal last year. But also ended up being some sticking points to 2011. Already have a girls night in the pocket, though, and am hopeful for closer, more meaningful relationships with my girlfriends. Old and new.

Finally, it's my hope to catch up on a weekly basis such as this, each Sunday. A good way to reflect back, and focus ahead. Good or bad, it doesn't matter. How are we letting our reactions control the situation? That's my BIG goal this year. Now. One down. 51 to go...

Blogging is so much easier

2012-01-07T12:16:00.001-08:00

My blogger iPhone app makes it SO convenient to blog on the go! And so many times I've been out and thought to myself--remember to blog that tonight.... Ha. I'd never remember. Now. I can. iPhone apps are the best I've seen. User friendly and best of all. They work!

Ben on eastbay

2012-01-07T12:13:00.001-08:00

Eurekas very own Ben Zobrist on the cover of one of the most coveted catalogs that ever enters the young household. Great story inside front page.

Sticky note to self.

2012-01-07T12:10:00.001-08:00

Almost 10lbs (re)lost since the summer. (5 more to go) I have completed a few days of hitting the treadmill with more than walking again. Sad but true; it's much easier to run without the extra pounds. But can I stick to it?

We shall see.

Jungle?

2012-01-06T19:47:00.001-08:00

First a cougar. Now an orangutan. The plex is turning into a jungle GYM!

Grisham & Lucas

2012-01-06T08:33:00.000-08:00

Take one bestseller legal thriller author and add one hunky blond haired blue eyed actor and what do you get? The Firm.

2 hour season premier this coming Sunday at 8pm. I'm SO THERE!

Green January

2012-01-05T16:20:00.001-08:00

Was today still January? Cause it looked and felt like a warm day in march instead... Loving the mild temps.

Beauty of the Heart

2012-01-05T05:32:00.000-08:00

A beautiful woman. A tragic injury. A determined and glorious heart. Meet her here.

Settling in

2012-01-04T15:39:00.001-08:00

Half way thru the first week of the new year. I hope everyone is settling in nicely! I have good thoughts for 2012!!

In A Year

2012-01-03T15:51:00.000-08:00

Well, I have decided to take on the challenge (offered by Crosspoint Community Church) to read the bible in a year. I have wanted to do this before. In fact, there are many times I have opened up to the first page and started out...."¹In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
²And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was....." oh dear what am I getting myself into?? You can imagine failure set in almost before I got started. Thick book. Thin pages. Very small print. I cannot do this!

Well, the plan (that is in fact, the key word...PLAN) I will follow is set up in a way that failure cannot happen. Or is much less likely at any rate. You can find the completely free and accessable plan here.

My hope is this will help me on my journey of becoming a calmer human being, more aware in life, and remembering my blessings quicker than my shortcomings.

I think too I'm finally learning that going by a plan makes things oh so much more possible!

Cold. But sunny.

2012-01-03T14:05:00.001-08:00

A frigid start to the day but the sun has been with us :)

This Spoke to me Today..

2012-01-02T19:25:00.001-08:00

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
Proverbs 4:23

My weakness..

2012-01-02T18:49:00.001-08:00

A nighttime no fat treat....lime serbet. Yum!

Two new addictions

2012-01-02T05:36:00.000-08:00

It's a new year. I'm still one who can get sucked into something and not surface for....well, a while. One reason I never started scrapbooking way back when. I just knew if I did, I'd end up broke(r) and swallowed up in fancy scissors, glitzy papers, and trimmed photos out the ying/yang. If I think it will be a problem, I try to steer clear. HA. Well, I've held off long enough with pinterest.

But first, instagram. Oh. My. Word. I LOVE instagram. If you have an iPhone, you probably know what I mean. I hardly think I'll end up with more followers than meetmebythewater, BUT I am following some amazing photographers that use instagram in more ways than I can ever dream to figure out. What an awesome concept.

Ok, now pinterest. I've known about this social pin board for a while now, and as of yesterday I am hooked. Just go look. No iPhone required. Pinterest.com. You. Will. Be.. amazed.....

Goodbye holidays

2012-01-01T16:33:00.001-08:00

It's refreshing to me to have a clean home and organized life. This isn't always the case. But when the tree and lights and decorations come down freeing up open clean space in my house I somehow find peace in it. Clean slate - we all need that once in a while.

Keeping friends close..

2012-01-01T10:27:00.001-08:00

Welcome 2012

2012-01-01T10:23:00.000-08:00

With the blustery wind today, it feels like I could start this by saying 2011 went out like a lamb, and 2012 came in like a lion! Esp with the warm temps we are experincing, add this wind, and it feels more like March than New Years!

Happy Twenty Dozen everyone!

Time to take down and pack Christmas away for another year...

CHAMPIONS!

2011-12-31T08:46:00.000-08:00

Our girls went undefeated for the tournament and played host St. Bede Bruins for the

Championship. Which is a repeat of last year, only we took second. This year we won in a clencher down to the wire, winning 57-51. (we were tied 51-51 with 1:50 to go in the 4th!!)

Our girl had some good blocks, an awesome three, and played defense like NO FREAKING OTHER. Girls......you make your mommas and poppas proud. You played like the champs you are!!

Now she is off to Nashville with her besties to ring in the New Year

southern style....(JEALOUS!!)

She is definitely growing up, that girl of mine...

2011 year in review..of sorts

2011-12-30T07:06:00.000-08:00

Last year (or the year prior even) I had done a year in review of sorts...more of a "what's hot, what's not" blog post. In watching (and shedding a few tears at) the Today show morning year in review, I decided I need to do yet another "what's hot, what's not" post to sum up the year 2011. So here goes nothin'.

Hot--nokia cameras. Not--multi million dollar divorces
Hot--adele. Not--realizing your coworker just heard you jamming out to adele.
Hot--BAMA vs LSU in the bcs Not--LSU beat us in regular season
Hot--loyal PSU fans Not--firing a legend because of disassociation
Hot--the possibility of advising student athletes Not--administration that can't make a decision
Hot--CC state finals Not--season ending shin splints during track season
Hot--Friends that are like family Not--family that are like enemies
Hot--two clear dental appts Not--a cracked molar entering the holiday season
Hot--mild winter so far Not--late spring? hope not
Hot--gel nails Not--a non english speaking newbie that never did a french mani before you
Hot--trip to the cayman islands Not--realizing this is your daughters senior trip
Hot--riding boots Not--only having bootcut jeans to wear with them
Hot--rockin awesome coworkers Not--wishing you got paid for what you did at work
Hot--wearing black nail polish Not--your son starts calling you 'emo'
Hot--smartphones Not--dumb batteries that don't hold a charge
Hot--in laws that would give you the world Not--realizing you pale in comparison
Hot--friendships that never sever Not--friendships that crumble for reasons out of your control
Hot--'the sak' messenger bag Not--fake leather messenger bag that cost $8
Hot--leftover green bean casserole Not--leftover butter braid
Hot--blogger buddies that motivate you Not--realizing you'll never have more than a few followers
Hot--reading or watching chick flicks all day Not--you forgot to buy groceries and do laundry
Hot--a health conscious 14 yo boy Not--you can't quick run by mcD's for a burger
Hot--having vehicles paid off Not--three vehicles with 100,000+ miles on them
Hot--being inspired to write a book Not--where to start?
Hot--Vera Bradley Not--you realize you have 20+ pieces, none in matching patterns
Hot--packing your own groceries Not--you still screwed up and smashed the bread
Hot--the opportunity of a clean slate (2012) Not--wondering what might go wrong THIS year
Hot--half full Not--half empty (I'm both--I know, it drives my husband nuts)

So there ya have it. Adios 2011. I really thought you'd be better than 2010. I can't say you were worse, but it was far from much better. I guess who can go wrong with status quo, huh?

Here's to a mild yet exciting 2012. Here's a sneak peek to what's ahead

8th grade graduation
HS graduation
One starts college
College Volleyball
Job Promotion?
A new president
Reading more great novel
Little bro gettin hitched
Daughters first plan ride

Awesome, she did it again...

2011-12-28T06:45:00.000-08:00

There is this saying that time is relative. A very smart man said this, and it's true---it's all relative to what you want and when you want it. It seems to move slowly when you want something or someone, and it appears to fly at the speed of light when you're exactly where you want to be, doing exactly what you want to do with exactly whom you want to do it. There are also those times when it seems to stand still, do stop completely, as if time itself is holding its breath to see what will happen next.

pg 108 excerpt from "the perfect love song" by PCH

I've always said...Patti can take us to a place in our hearts where we didn't even know we wanted to go, or knew existed. She brings feelings and thoughts to words in a way like no other. The true gift of any writer. And the essence of every successful writer.

ummm yeah. Nope.

2011-12-25T20:42:00.000-08:00

Remember how I don't care for new years resolutions? Yeah, no...I'm not making any.

Happy New Year!!

Time to get your cmas on!

2011-12-24T07:47:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

From us to YOU

My New Coworker/Protector

2011-12-23T07:37:00.000-08:00

Cougars Are Our Name and Now We have One.

Written by Matthew Allan Guile

Tuesday, 20 December 2011 21:53

EAST PEORIA - A real Cougar, Sonya has come to Illinois Central College.

Don't worry though, there won't be any bludgeonings at the claws of a wild cat roaming the campus. Sonya's not going anywhere as she peers over visitors at the CougarPlex, above the merchandise counter.

Sonya was the original cougar at Wildlife Prairie State Park. She died in 1982 and was preserved through the hard work of a taxidermist.

Because of a joint agreement between the college and the park, she has been moved to the Cougarplex.

At the ICC Board of Trustees meeting on Dec. 15, ICC President Dr. John Erwin, challenged those who were listening: “...see if you can find Sonya. I think it's going to be really clear where Sonya is located.”

Prior to her new home, according to Erwin, her position at the park was obscure.

“When we completed the CougarPlex, it looked like it would be an appropriate location for Sonya," Erwin said. "And that if we acknowledged its origins, and talked about it as a particular type of animal at one point, here in Illinois - and of course it's a our nickname - we might be able to give Sonya a new home.”

“It's a nice colorful touch of originality, and reality,” Erwin said.

ICC encourages nature lovers to visit Wildlife Prairie Park and view its two remaining live cougars, Hillary and Tipper. It should be pretty obvious who those two big cats are named after: Hillary Clinton, and Tipper Gore.

For more information about Sonya, and cougars: visit the CougarPlex, ask about her, and pick up a pamphlet

From: http://iccharbinger.com/home/news/1-news/351-matthew-allan-guile

Sonya sits about 10ft above my head where I sit at the front entrance desk at the CougarPlex. At first I had some issues with having her up there. But then I remembered Rocky and Bullwinkle (our stuffed squirrels here at home) and knew she'd soon become my desk mate and protector. At least I'm trying to keep that in mind!

TidBits of Awesome

2011-12-23T07:16:00.000-08:00

From "The Book of Awesome":

Snow stepping...using someones bigger footprints in the snow to guide your way.
Finally remembering a word that's been on the tip of your tounge forever.
Sneaking McDonald's and hiding the evidence.
Taking off your shoes on a long car ride.
Finally figuring out how your hotel shower works.
When you arrive at your destination just as a great song on the radio ends.
Saying the same thing a sports commentator says just before they say it.
A long hug when you really need it.

I haven't read from this book since the warm summer breezes filtered across my face and legs as I laid in the hammock after a morning of cutting the lawn. Joyces birthday gift to me brought smiles, and uh huh's, and many giggles of agreement. It still does. I never read straight thru, as it is a compilation of many short quipps and stories. Is quipp a word? I don't know, but I use it. Anyway, I thought during this time of hustle, bustle, ram rod driving, and short days it would be fun to remember those tiny moments in life when you can smile within yourself and know that Life Is Good.

Shortest Day

2011-12-21T05:33:00.000-08:00

Today is the shortest day of the year. Only 8 hours and 58 minutes of daylight, per my friend Glenn on facebook. My comment? GOOD! Now let's begin counting down to spring!!

Your hearts treasure...and purpose.

2011-12-20T14:03:00.000-08:00

“Remember that wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure.” You’ve got to find the treasure, so that everything you have learned along the way can make sense. "
- The Alchemist

What an interesting book this is turning out to be. I'd love to have time to sit down and read it all in one setting, but that's not looking to happen anytime soon with Christmas just around the corner. So I whittle away a few pages at a time, having a difficult time pulling myself away when I need to do something else. Like do laundry, fix dinner, go to work, or sleep....I mean, this is a serious book. Light, and entertaining..but serious too. I'm loving the learning lesson within it.

Rocker Dead or Alive?

2011-12-20T05:30:00.000-08:00

My middle and early high school years almost took a sudden sad turn yesterday when I read a quick report online that Jon Bon Jovi had been found dead in a hotel. Thankfull this morning he's tweeted that he's alive and well. How do things like this get started? WHY do they get started?

I can't tell you how many times I stayed up late on friday nights hoping to catch one of his song videos on Friday Night Videos (usually sandwiched between something by Michael Jackson and Cindi Lauper) or played my Guns n Roses tapes on my boom box, or walkman. A friend of mine had JBV posters in her room (actually, the close up shot you see below..), right along with the Tom Cruise Top Gun Poster. Adding to the dynamic atmosphere and surroundings of a teen growing up in the late 80's.

If nothing else, I can thank the hoax for the trip down memory lane....!

A little ZBB

2011-12-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't like a Zach Brown Band song to get a saturday morning started!?

11 Natrual Ways to Beat a Migraine

2011-12-13T05:33:00.000-08:00

I've dealt with the debilitating effect of migraines for a few years now. They don't happen often, and are mostly triggered by stress, hormones, and or a drastic change in weather. Or all three combined, like this last one was. Not being able to take meds for them, (I've thrown up every pill I've ever tried taking for a migraine as the headaches cause nausea among many other symptoms) I've typically just suffered thru them. Most times I hibernate to a cool, dark, quiet place. If I can have a cool rag on my head while laying down, all the better. I decided to do some googling and see what natural, home remedies might have for me. I found this article and I think I might try a few the next time I start to feel one coming on!

11 Home Remedies for Migraine Headaches

Talk about gender bias.

Three out of four of the nearly 30 million Americans who suffer from migraines are women.

The reason may have to do with a woman’s menstrual cycle, but triggers can also include alcohol, weather changes, stress, food and lack of sleep, said Dr. Brian Grosberg, assistant professor of neurology and director of Inpatient Headache Program at Montefiore Headache Center in Bronx, N.Y.

Nonetheless, there are therapies you can try at home to relieve your migraine pain, Grosberg said.

And the best thing about these remedies? They aren't gender-specific.

1. Drink water

“Dehydration can be a big cause of headaches,” Grosberg said.

2. Drink caffeine

Caffeine is a double-edged sword – it can help and hinder headaches.

“Caffeine can restrict blood vessels, it can lessen pain, it’s a constituent of some pain over-the-counter pain medicines, but it can also trigger headaches for some people,” Grosberg said. “If someone uses caffeine excessively, it can cause a rebound headache, making existing headaches worse.”

3. Tying a headband around the head

Grosberg said this is a practice that's been done since ancient times, and he’s not sure how it came about, but some people claim it works.

4. Fish oil

Enthusiasts claim that fish oil reduces inflammation and works by restricting the blood vessels in your temples. Grosberg said there's no sound evidence, but he recommends trying it.

5. Peppermint oil

Rub it on the part of your head that hurts.

“There’s been no literature to support this, but again, people say it works,” Grosberg said.

6. Eat ginger or take ginger capsules

“No one really knows how this works either,” Grosberg said. “It clearly reduces nausea, but other than that ..."

7. Magnesium

Grosberg said this has been studied and when taken in doses of 400 to 600 milligrams per day, magnesium is effective for menstrual-associated migraines and migraines associated with auras.

The downside: Magnesium may cause diarrhea, if you take too much, Grosberg said.

8. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

In doses of 400 milligrams a day, vitamin B2 can also act as a preventative for migraines, Grosberg said. It can cause some people to urinate more frequently or have darker urine, so the dosage may have to be adjusted.

9. CoEnzymeQ10

Grosberg said that taking 300 milligrams per day has proven to be effective in reducing head pain. The downside: It can be expensive.

10. Butterbur

The most effective "natural medicine," Grosberg said, is called butterbur, or petasites.

Butterbur is a plant grown in Germany, and extensive studies have proven that in pill form, it is very effective in treating migraine pain and asthma, as well as alleviate upset stomachs. Butterbur is safe, although it can only be ordered online.

11. Cold (or hot) compress

This is another remedy that no one knows why it works, but it some swear by it.

"It's hard to study something like that," Grosberg said. "It can have a placebo effect, or it can have a distracting effect on the patient. But a lot of patients swear by it."

Whether you try one or all of these at-home remedies, Grosberg said you should still keep a headache diary to monitor what works and what doesn't, and what triggers your headache. This will assist your doctor in treating you.

"Overall, the less medicines you take, the better," he added

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,530388,00.html#ixzz1gQBVhqYm

Shopping Trip, um...Adventure down..how many more to go!??

2011-12-11T07:24:00.001-08:00

Finally got my christmas shopping started last night. And while I dreaded entering the mall parking lot the entire drive there, I was pleasantly suprised to find a close spot. Which is a great sign of a successful shopping day.

The sunny mid saturday afternoon started off almost deserted. Barely a car on the highway. I immediately thought the worse. Everyone is ALREADY at the mall, and I'm going to have to park three thousand blocks away....Luckily for me, I stalked an elderly lady to her car, which was not far from the door, and was able to nab her spot. This is about the only time I use my blinker. To claim my parking spot. It works, really..it does. I mean, how many times does someone steal a spot you are waiting on and have your blinker on to claim it as your own? I'd say for the most part, people heed the warning. It's like saying..."Backoff buddy, don't even think about stealing that spot, and if you do, consider my bumper up the backside of your caddy." And don't you think, that blinker claiming would hold up in court? "I'm sorry sir, you deserved to be rear ended...she DID have her blinker on....judgement for the defendant, claimant responsible for his own damages. Maybe now you'll learn to heed the 5th golden rule." I'm not really sure it's the 5th golden rule, but parking spot blinker claiming IS on the list!

My easy entrance into the parking lot, did not prepare me for what I'd find inside...Of course, there were people everywhere, though not so many I couldn't navigate in and out of stores easily. It wasn't even the relentless bell ringing and merry music coming from anchor stores that startled me. No, it was a train. A train full of children, laughing hysterically as the driver dodged would be santas and elves toting packages, and gulping coffee from gloria jeans. Most mall trains run in a giant circle around and around. This one obviously derailed, and no one was reporting it. For a while I almost felt I was being stalked by the train full of shrilling laughing children, and I even once spotted a parent climbing out of one of the little miniature cars. I was being paid back for stalking the elderly lady in the parking lot, I just knew it. Karma had struck!

When I wasn't fearing for my life and the crazy train passengers, I was finding deals. And I'm talking almost black friday type deals. These were bright saturday evening specials. Just for me. I got three people checked off my list, and a few other lists at least started on. The close parking spot theory was ringing truer than a salvation army bell ringer after standing in the same spot for hours and hours.

About half way through my adventure I had remembered both lunch and supper had passed and I'd not even so much as taken a sip of water. Time for a sleigh ride moca. I could pretend it's a warm version of a meal replacement shake...couldn't I?! No shopping trip is complete without a sleigh ride drink! And a full jolt of caffiene on an empty stomach? Fuel for more shopping!!

This time, for a new bag for myself. Which is about as bad as jeans shopping for me. I am wayy too picky on what type of purse I carry. It has to be stylish, functional, organized, soft, neutral, statement making, yet not expensive. I found out last night that is an impossible conglomeration of qualities. It cannot be found. I did find a fairly cheap (we will see how long it lasts) black messenger that I think I can live with. For the rest of the winter anyway. And actually, now that I think about it, this subject is an entire blog post in of itself.

10pm I finally make my way home, almost running into a deer in my front yard. No joke. That lady I stalked in the parking lot was really trying to get back at me. First the zombie children derailed train in the mall.... Now a leeping 8pt buck streaking my yard.... I can hear her laughing now...."it aint just grandma that got run over by the reindeer little lady!"

I wonder what adventures my next trip will bring!?

Patience Rules

2011-12-10T06:01:00.001-08:00

Sometimes the direction you think things are going...and feel completely content about, happen to take a turn you did not expect. At the begining of the week, I thought things were going to change significantly for me in the department of my career and work day. But it was actually a no-go, and fell through. Thankfully, I had recruited a few to be on my side in prayer for the right outcome from the begining of the process. I truly believe this aided in my sense of peace over the would-be let-down over not getting the job. I honestly believe it was not the right place for me. Of course, a week ago, I thought completely differently about it....

This position, a Paraprofessional III position was just what I felt I wanted to do. Working with students again was something I felt would help give me a sense of purpose back in my daily job outside the house. I've missed the daily work with students more than I thought I would. And since my job now doesn't interact in the same way, I thought the move..with higher pay and less commute...was a no brainer. Well, it is really. But was I the right one for these kids? No. Could I have done the job well? Yes. But as effective as they need? Probably not. Not as well as someone with a teaching degree...though not necessary for the position....could do. My main concern? Successful students. If that includes me or not, so long as they succeed in the way that is necessary. Of course, being a finalist of three out of almost 30 applicants is not something to sneeze at.

The ironic part of all this, the day I interviewed the final time, the AD where I am now came to me to say that my monitoring of athletes for NJCAA requirements is closer to being a reality. Of course, I've heard this before. I've been put on the back burner for this for quite some time. Hence my looking elsewhere. So, I informed her of my plans of possibly changing jobs, and she was crushed. Knowing it's not her call on the new position, I did feel badly, and yet she completely understood my frustration. Frustrated herself, she called her manager and alerted that if something didn't get decided quickly, they'd loose me. An already seasoned advisor, familiar with both academics and athletics at the school. They know they have a goldmine. Not to toot my own horn, but honestly....at this point, no one could replace me in the experience I have at the school. No one would. It's hard to explain. My advising knowledge came on the fly. I already knew athletics. NCAA summer school equipped me with even more ammunition. No one else on campus has that combination of knowledge.

So there I sit. Waiting. Knowing that God knows whats in store, being patient in that, and realizing the student athletes might just be where I am needed most. Now if they just open the door and let me do my work. With a pay raise and benes of course.... I'm not THAT into my career :)

Oh, and by the way. 800th post. Full of peace, contentment, patience, and still. Totally out of character for me!

In a barn

2011-12-02T20:38:00.001-08:00

Were you raised in a barn?

Perhaps born in a barn?

Did you party in a barn?

Maybe put hay up in a barn?

Scoop manure from a barn?

Work in a barn?

How about worship and find strength in God in a barn?

Now, that...I've not done. Yet.

This coming sunday that will change.

And over the course of the next several months, that barn, too, will change. It will be transformed into a fit space for gathering, worshiping, and praising of God's eternal love and grace.

And since I know you're still hung up on that one...yes, I have partied in a barn. :) What was that last post about everything happens for a reason and all the things we go thru prepare us for the future.....? yeah...

Game Changer. Finally.

2011-12-02T20:33:00.001-08:00

This could be it. It really could be. I have such a good feeling about what might be just right around the corner for me that I just couldn't help but put a quick note out here about it. I'm having to be vague. I don't want to jyinx what so far has seemed to be just what I have been wishing and waiting on for some time now.

And if things happen the way I feel they are headed....I will be a firm believer in that everything happens for a reason, and every thing you go thru now is preparing you for something more in the future. Embrace the challenges, the changes, and the frustration. Learn from it all. Become the you you are meant to be.

Oh. And your gut. For goodness sake, LISTEN TO YOUR GUT!

Journaling

2011-12-02T05:10:00.001-08:00

Okay, I have stated before that blogging is sort of like journaling...only the world (or 9 people) can read it. Of course, I do probably screen things before posting here. I know some people don't screen before posting on their blog. But that's just my preferance.

Yesterday while browsing the blank journals at B&N, I came across many beautiful, many generic, many gaudy journal covers. Some sueded leather, silver locks, and feather light pages that I'd be scared to make one mark in for the fear of ruining the entire book. Lots of printed hard covers with inspiriational messages already printed inside, or artistic renditions of love and nature. Spiral bound even with lined pages, not the soft, recycled paper, but new, bright, rough papers. You could find a spiral notebook at walmart for cheaper. Nothing but a small pocket initialed journal seemed logical until I came across something fun.

Since I already DO journal, and sporatic as it is, I decided to challenge myself to make sure and make an entry at least twice a week thru the end of the year, and continue thru 2012. Among the many journals on the three shelves I found a small, square something with a title. This hard cover fat little book is called 365 answers for 5 years. Each day, a question. Each day an answer. Once you complete a year, you start over 4 more times. Questions asked are simple, but can bring about some thought.....things like, "what is your favorite tv show?", or "how do you feel today", or "what makes you happy", or "what is your favorite dessert". Some simple, non committal, some more intense.

A good friend of mine always talks about the importance of journaling. If for no other reason than to be able to get things out, and see yourself, and others maybe in a different light. It's therapy. Cheap, even leatherbound, therapy.

Another interesting thought is that by journaling you are leaving a part of yourself behind. Something that one day, possibly someone will cherish because you are no longer among them. A legacy that possibly those you love most will have a chance to delve into. Weather they want to or not. I mean, there could be things you've admitted, shared, or thought about that others won't want to read. But isn't that what life is full of? Things we don't want to deal with. Things we don't want in our life. But we do, and they are. For a reason. To make us more understanding, stronger, and more aware of ourselves.

So, in 2017 my new fat little journal will be complete. It should be an interesting outcome.

iPad in the dark?

2011-11-26T14:05:00.001-08:00

For all you iPad users out there, a quick and easy fix for when/if your screen ever goes completely blank and is unresponsive to any and all attempts at recessitation. Press and hold BOTH the home and sleep/awake buttons at the same time for about 10 seconds. Voila'.

I'm so glad I didn't act on my urge to pry the thing apart to see what issues there may have been inside, or worse yet....taken it in to the geek squad to pay $60+ for something I easily found an answer to on about.com.

And now, I'm doing my daily good deed and passing the info along to all 5 (if that) by the water readers. You're welcome.

At ease.

Black Fryday

2011-11-26T07:24:00.001-08:00

I successfully was able to avoid black friday like the plague. I insisted in staying home, in my pajamas, cleaning my house, doing my familys mounds of dirty, smelly laundry. My choice was much more peaceful. Much more controllable, which if you know me, control is key! I didn't feel like fighting traffic. Road rage hits me at very unnecessary and inconvenient times. I didn't care to deal with the lines of people, who I am sure were more filled with piss and vinegar rather than sugar and honey. I have very little paitence for people in stores who think they are the only customers in the place, standing dead center of every aisle they walk down. And that's impaitence on a NORMAL, non busy, shopping day.

I've been shopping on black friday once in my life. And once in my life I have entered a store, picked up the item I needed, and walked directly to the register, paid for the item, and walked to my car. Then drove home. I do consider myself someone who loves to shop. My husband would tell you I am someone who loves to shop too much. He is right. And he probably wishes every day was black friday. Because he knows that's the only shopping day I'll miss on purpose.

For those of you who braved all the frustration the day can hand out, I commend you. I hope you got everything on your list you were looking for, and then some. My house is clean. My familys drawers are full of clean clothes. And I'm still in my jammies. Sane, and comfy! Well, comfy for sure.

See The Man?

2011-11-22T18:16:00.001-08:00

No, you're not looking at a Predator. This is Liu Bolin, also known as 'China's Invisible Man,' who specializes in camouflage body-paintings. The seamless blending-in with his environment is the result of hours of painstaking work. Click through to see a couple more of his opuses.
http://games.yahoo.com/photos/camouflage-paintings-1321923033-slideshow/

Scarf Fun

2011-11-21T16:49:00.001-08:00

25 ways to wear your scarf!

Trending Now: Broken Thumbs

2011-11-21T04:46:00.001-08:00

Apparently my son has started a fashion sense that even NFL quarterbacks rival. Break your thumb, and you'll get tons of attention from your mom, funky colored casts, and preferrential treatment at school. Of course, you'll have to add ESPN and yahoo updates for some. That's right, Bears' quarterback, Cutler busted up his thumb late in last evenings game vs. the Chargers. He's facing a possible surgery and 6-8 weeks out. Hopefully, though, he gets the same luck as my son and only has to sit out 3 weeks of recess...

Sometimes Timing is Everything

2011-11-19T07:27:00.001-08:00

Still praying for the JoePa and Penn State family...Even more now in light of these news.

Enlightened by Larry Crowne

2011-11-18T10:00:00.001-08:00

Lately since the weather has been cooler, I have been spending friday mornings (my only day off) catching a flick on dish network. Today I caught one that I remembered wanting to see in the theatre, but never took the opportunity to do so. "Larry Crowne" is one of those down and out, feel good, understated movies that leaves you appreciating the small things in life.

Larry Crowne (Tom Hanks), a suburban divorcee, is fired from his shift manager position at U-mart, and is left wondering what to do with his life. Upon some reflection, and help from his pushy yard sale retailer neighbor, he decides to head to community college. Here, Larry discovers new friends, himself, and the art of unplanned speeches. Oh, and don't forget the pretty teacher (Julia Roberts) that he ends up bringing out of her down and out junior college instructor stupor. Wondering if she ever even makes an impact on at least one student, knowing her classes are not all that popular, and wishing for a marriage that completes her....she has a similar self discovery moment by the end of the reel.

Larry Crowne is great if you've ever been on the brink of something new and out of your comfort zone, and especially if you've attended or worked in a juco setting. With a bit of NBC's sitcom "Community" antics, todays economic conditions, and personal reflection....Larry Crowne is sure to tickle your funny bone, and touch your heart.

You'll have a new appreication for Tai Chi, tucked in polos, and scooters!

The Mike and Maty Show!

2011-11-18T09:48:00.001-08:00

Do you remember this? I think it started the year I became a stayathomemommy and was a staple in my morning routine staying home with my new baby girl. Funny how we forget about things, and a simple youtube video reminds us!

A New Solo Movie Day Out

2011-11-18T05:16:00.001-08:00

Or I might take one of my girlfriends that loves Nick Sparks as much as I do....

The Vow...based on a true story, starring Channing Tatum and Rachel McAdams. I had apprehensions about seeing two former Nick Sparks' movie stars coming together in a new screenplay written by Nick, but after seeing the trailer...I'm SOLD!

Perfectly Blessed

2011-11-13T19:31:00.001-08:00

Today was one of those days where I have been so deeply reminded of just how blessed I am. A wonderfully talented, beautiful, and strong daughter. An incredibly kind, paitent, and loving son. A husband that will do ANYthing for his family, and loves completely and unconditionally. A nice who is almost a mirror image of my own daughter, but quirky in all her own beautiful and fantastic ways..and just as talented. And two sister in laws who are more like regular sisters than anything. (not to mention all the other SIL's I have!) There was no grand thing that happened. We did not have pretenses to the day. No wild expectations. It. Was. Just. A. Perfect. Day.

US Amateur Volleyball Competition

2011-11-13T19:02:00.001-08:00

We arrived early to the UofI Student Recreation Center, basically the ICC CougarPlex on steroids. I mean, this place is incredible. I lost count at how many gymnasiums they have!

We got the girls checked in, jerseys assigned (even though they were all the same color despite the team they were on..), and found the right gym. We had a full day of one last hurrah with volleyball. And the girls had fun playing against one another one last time. They also had some awesome experience of being teammates with girls they don't know, and coached by some area college coaches. Overall good, fun experience. And I found out Champaign has a rockin

awesome shopping mall!

A portion of the girls who participated...Kelsey's 'gold' team is seated in front..

Kels and her cousin Tay

Kels is setting on the near court

and Tay is setting on the far court...

Trac, Kels, Tay, Jod

Can You Fire A Legend?

2011-11-12T05:59:00.001-08:00

Perhaps. When you see it as the easiest, quickest, and most impactful way of polishing a tarnish created by OTHERS, sure. Does it work? Time will tell, and honestly...people are already figuring it out. In my opinion, the Board of Trustees thinks they can defame someone by using them as a scapegoat. They can take him away from football, but they can't take football away from him. God Bless JoePa, may the true criminals get their due, pray for the victms...and GO PENN STATE.

From Joe's Hidden Blog. This is great.

2011-11-08T05:36:00.001-08:00

Missing your peace.

Clarkson and Camry

2011-11-07T17:18:00.001-08:00

Imma sucker for certain commercials where you find unlikely parings......Kelly Clarkson and the football guy....

Here ya go, Joe

2011-11-07T16:41:00.000-08:00

From Women's Health facebook page...(but probably goes for the men species too)

FACT: Drink 34 ounces of water a day and you'll be 21 percent less likely to develop high blood pressure.

I wonder if 68 ounces gives you 42% coverage!?

Food Cravings and Personality

2011-11-07T04:45:00.000-08:00

Think the two can't be related? Think again. I quickly read thru this article regarding such relation...and I have to say, there's a bit of merit in what I see.

1 vs 2

2011-11-05T15:59:00.001-07:00

Here's the BAMA hYpE!!

6 month time lapse...

2011-11-05T15:21:00.000-07:00

It has been just over 6 months since the devastating Tuscaloosa (and other deadly southern) tornado. Click here to see a time lapse as recorded by photographer Michelle Carter.

gym fail!

2011-11-05T15:19:00.000-07:00

Did someone say exercise balls roll!?

This Says A Lot

2011-10-30T13:40:00.001-07:00

Well..by golly....

2011-10-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

That was it! And here all along I've been blaming my computer? Although, I do think I had a minor java script glitch, I believe it is fixed now. But the new blogger interface seems to be a change I can't live without. That is if blogging is something I want to continue on with.

It's kind of like that feeling you probably get when you solve the rubiks' cube back to the original matching pattern. A computer glitch is very similar to someone who is technically challenged. You either a) sit and stew about it and get yourself so frustrated you want to chuck the thing out the window; b) send it off to a professional. You know, like that one uncle who would come visit and solve your rubicks cube within 3 minutes of staring intently after you've been agonizing over it all day long; c) shove the thing in the closet never to look at it again; or d) rearrange the parts (stickers or squares) to force solve it. (of course, I never did this...the stickers weren't square when I got it...honest...)

photo source

Maybe this will work?

2011-10-30T13:13:00.001-07:00

A new blogger interface? Okay, sure. I've ignored it a few times, maybe clicking on it, and allowing the newness to come into my life..(haha) will fix my posting 'problem'?

Let's see..

So here's the thing...

2011-09-17T05:53:00.000-07:00

My laptop is having issues. Not exactly sure when the issues began, but they were obviously noticable a few days ago when I found that the drop down tabs on my kids' school website were permanently stuck in the 'down' positon. Funny thing about that, is that just a few nights before while at the school open house, a friend of mine noticed the same issue with her computer about the school website. But it's a computer issue. Not a site issue. I can access things perfectly fine from work. Hubby has no issue with his computer, and the iPad responds fine.

Here's the second thing I found out. I cannot 'publish post' from my laptop. I can do everything else on my blog but PUBLISH the POST.

Do you know how completely frustrating both of those issues are? Tiny issues in the grand scheme of things. Petty really. Nothing seems to affect my bank site, my email, or my documents in word. The only indication I have is that possibly it's a java glitch. I know I should go to the geeksquad. But the $60 fee to tell me what needs to be fixed has me lingering. And I've inquired to a few facebook friends that I know are especially 'techy'. But to no avail.... the issue persists.

So as summer is turning (much too quickly I might add) into fall...I sit wrapped in my fleece blanket blogging and saving. Time to hit the iPad and order up some biscuits and gravy. Sometime this weekend I have to sit down and do my reflection post about Patti's book. I just finished last night. I know. Took me forever. I was lingering. Didn't want it to end. And when it did, I wished for the first chapter again. The eerie thing is, that after meeting her, I had her voice in my head as I read.

And no, you do not need to bring to my attention the ADHD/ADD content in that last paragraph. Thats what happens when you stop posting regularly.

Now, excuse me while I switch devices so the world can read this.

Some Fun Odd News

2011-09-15T04:54:00.000-07:00

http://oddnews.yahoo.com/video-odd-news-26618313

Meeting a Favorite

2011-09-05T19:15:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a favorite. A favorite color. A favorite pair of jeans, or shoes. A favorite dessert. A favorite pizza topping. Perhaps a favorite activity. When you see or experience these 'favorites' in life, you just come to feel comfortable. Happy. Life is good when 'favorites' can be a part of your daily life.

Take that a step further and we can talk about favorite movies, songs, cars, sports teams, etc. When we look at larger things like this, we can attach certain people to the 'favorite'. Possibly it's a teams coach, the quarterback. How about the starring role in that favorite movie of yours? Possibly the director.

Try having 8 favorites all in a row. A nice little tidy row on the top shelf of your bookcase. The bookcase that you pass numerous times a day. The bookcase who's contents and open spaces you dust and clean weekly. Though, there are not many open spots, for every inch is almost full of books. Books, and more books. Lot's of them. Certain authors works grace your bookshelves for a time. Some sit in waiting. Waiting for their spines to be cracked open, and their contents devoured. Some, only to be read then passed on to another, while other authors come to find their place on your shelf. Never to be packed up or given away. They have rightly earned their spot thru their contents. Each individual package and gift of words that has crept so deeply into your heart that they have reserved their permanent and tangible spot in the bookcase.

I have two favorite authors. And right now they have room to share the top shelf. Longer ago I remember thinking how lovely it would be to meet this person or that. Take for instance, Oprah. Every 30 something wife, mother, daughter, friend wants to meet Oprah. Don't they!? I mean, when asked that question.."Who most would you like to have lunch with" my most obvious answer would most likely have been Oprah. Not necessarily because of any particular reason. Mostly because of my place in life, that's the expected answer...That's how I used to do things. The 'expected' way.

These days my answer would be much different......

It seems when we have a certain something or someone that 'helps' us thru certain times in our lives, they seem to become a part of us. This can be a close friend, a pet, a family member, even a coworker. I've had all of the above. And those are true blessings. Blessings that I realize not everyone has.

But there are other blessings in life. The blessing of word. The blessing of story. Those that speak to you so deeply that sometimes you have to shake your head to realize you are in fact NOT THE person the author writes of...yet you can't help but think..just maybe.

Then I realize this is more of a sense of relief. Relief that, finally...thru the craziness of your mind, the hurt inside your heart, and the confusion of life that surrounds us all...that FINALLY someone gets it. They UNDERSTAND you. Okay. So you read that first book. And it spoke. But then so does the next one. And the next one.... And finally you come to see that some of the things you'd most wish to change of yourself can only be embraced because these quirky things are what make you who you are. And that someone on the other side of the story has in fact confirmed this very fact.

This is getting deeper than I intended, but some of it must be explianed to understand.....so I will get back on track here.

When someone with the gift of story has touched your heart and life with what they share to those that care to crackle the spine of the book and take a few moments out of their day to indulge...you can't help but call them one of your 'favorites'. A favorite band, singer, actor, actress. Author. A favorite author. A NYTimes bestselling author at that. An author who's life seemes to parallel yours in many ways. An author that comes from where the water meets the land, the mountains climb to the heavens, and the sweet tea runs like wine :)

I had the most wonderfully electrical experience of meeting the person behind the words that helped me thru some pretty terrifically rocky parts in life. Reading her stories helped me realize I was not the only one going thru some of the 'stuff' that us wives, moms, friends, and daughters go thru. Patti Callahan Henry is one of the most gifted, gracious, inviting, and involved author I know. Well, okay. Fine. She's practically the only one I know. Though I did meet a few other wonderfully talented authors over the weekend. Some of whose books do also grace the shelves of my bookcase. What a wonderfully wonderful day it was. My heart is full. My life has been touched. And I do hope that if you are reading this and thinking..."I've never had an expreience like that"...then this is my wish for you. I wish that this kind of experience can cross your path in life, and a connection can be made. For connections are so very important for all of us.

Awe, He's got pizza, he's alright!

2011-08-29T05:12:00.000-07:00

Evacuate!

2011-08-24T05:14:00.000-07:00

The hurricaine is on it's way, and praying it slows down a bit before getting to the Carolinas. Just heard on the news that they are evacuating people from Ocracoke Island, just south of the Frisco Pier you see here. One of the last hurricaines that skirted the east coast left the Frisco Pier in disrepair, but still standing. I'm afraid another strong storm could wash it completely away and into the atlantic waters....A vacation landmark left only in pictures and memory.

Just a Glimpse!

2011-08-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

My Anthem in a Couple Weeks..

2011-08-16T14:06:00.000-07:00