najeras

Visit my new home.

2008-02-08T22:49:00.000-08:00

I have purchased a domain name www.sleepyeyed.com. This will be my new website. I am finally making use of my .mac account that my brother and sister and I split. Anyhow, I was looking to update the look of my blog. The blogger templates just weren't cutting it anymore. So I started over. I am not finished yet, don't have any links or anything yet. You may wonder why I chose the name sleepyeyed, well I suppose you'll have to visit my new site to find that out. If you have any trouble viewing the site, let me know.

Anxiously awaiting packages

2008-02-02T17:13:00.000-08:00

Waiting is so hard. I am very excited, but the waiting is horrible. Soon we will be using a new homeschool curriculum. We began homeschooling this year. There are many things I like about homeschool. The sleeping in, sleeping in, sleeping in. Oh yeah other stuff like, being with my kids, watching them learn, a more balanced life for us. No more tired struggle with homework afterschool when Cathy was sick of schoolwork and I was tired of teaching (when I worked) and neither of us was motivated to do anything after the 3:00 bell rang. So the entire aspect of learning is more welcome.

Anyhow, we have been enrolled in an online public school. By Nov. I was convinced that I did not like online school. My kids like computers so several hours of online assignments and then more time to just play online games - was so too much time glued to the computer. I also did not enjoy the curriculum, I won't go into details. I also believe in hands on learning. I believe kids learn more by doing and also taking into consideration their personal learning style. I can show stats if anyone is interested. In the beginning I tried to supplement hands on learning with their online assignments. That didn't work since they had a deadline in which to finish their course. If we deviated then they'd get behind, etc. So instead I began researching options. I wanted to find something that would target my kids needs. Something affordable. I researched different methods of homeschooling. I settled upon, unit studies (multi-level teaching). With this method, there is a topic at hand for the unit - you teach your children together and you draw the different subjects from that topic - then there are separate assignments or projects based on grade level. I began researching options. I knew that coming up with my own stuff was not a feasible option. Too much time to plan out lessons, activities, assignments. I finally narrowed down my choices. I chose KONOS. It is a faith based unit curriculum grades K-8. Its units go by character traits of God. You study a character trait, read real books together, hands on projects, writing, science, etc. It covers all major subjects - except Math and grammer. I have chosen some workbooks to work out of for those subjects for the remainder of this year. Maybe for next year I'll choose to buy actual curriculum for Math, we'll see. From what I've read the "scope" (stuff studied) is the same as most schools, but the "sequence" (order) is different. I'm looking at getting another volume so I can mix and match and put the order as I want. Also volume II has the Presidents and electoral process which would be good since we are in an election year. I am excited for something different. I am excited to be done researching . . . for now anyways. I bought mine off ebay today, so I saved some money. I bought the workbooks of amazon for cheap.

There's still more to do. I do not have any college credits, so state law requires that either I have a certified teacher monitor my students or I take a homeschool qualifying course. My mom is a certified teacher so I could ask her to monitor their progress, but I am choosing to take a qualifying course. As long as I intend to take the next available course I am good for the year. There are different ways to take a course. Great Expectations has a course in May. I will be registering for that course. Once that is done we are set for life I think. WA state also requires annual testing. Since Jorge is not 8 years old yet, he doesn't need to be tested. I will be registering Cathy for testing. Right now I am looking at two different companies that will be having testing in May in Tri-cities. With the online school I didn't have to think much about this stuff since they took care of it all.

So that is what is going on. My kids are excited about the upcoming change. I am excited. We read in our first unit we study senses and we get to dissect a cow's eye to see the different parts of the eye! Through my research I found a homeschool mom's blog

who uses the curriculum, she has lots of links and even made posts helping other to organize the curriculum for daily use. I read her testimony. Its interesting to connect with someone you don't even know. Well, we journey on waiting on mail. We will keep with the online school until I get and familiarize myself with the curriculum. Hopefully this will be our last month with online stuff.

Aroma of Life

2008-01-26T23:19:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you feel like life stinks. Like you know so much - yet you can't seem to make progress. And then a change comes.

Things have been well . . . rocky lately. Its a hard transition when you feel like you are in a comfortable spot. Comfortable in many areas: finances, marriage, being a mom, ministry, everything. and then suddenly nothing is comfortable. You feel like you are failing in all areas.

Well, I feel things are looking up. Things are changing. We are climbing out of our slump. God continues to be our provider. I had this moment. This moment of feeling stuck. Just stuck. At the moment of conversation it was a feeling of being at a "ministry wall". But my words were true about a lot of areas of our life: financial wall, marriage wall. You see I feel like God has created me to be used to my fullest potential - and I think he gave me a lot of potential. I want to be a part of everything. I want to learn as much as I can. So I was extremely excited at an invitation to be a part of a "leadership team" with the Northwest Ministry Network. It was a team by invitation only 10 youth and 10 childrens pastors invited on a year journey to learn and grow in ministry. Anyhow, there's a fee for it all and a trip to california. Registration was coming due. I wanted a slot. It didn't seem that my church was in a position to support me financially. It surely didn't seem like I was able to support this financially. I felt like I was against a wall. I wanted to move forward, but I couldn't. I wouldn't be wise to put money I didn't really have towards this adventure - not when its hard enough to pay our bills. But I wanted it to happen. I had already accepted an invitation to be a part of the Nitro team (planning kids conference). So I made the trip to Tacoma for the meeting. I just about cried. You see as we were leaving I was told that I would be receiving a form for reimbursement. I thought it would be for gas - since they paid for our meal. When I got the form, it was a mileage form. 50.5 cents per mile. That's over $200! At that moment, I felt kind of awkward - them paying me that much to be on the team, they could save a lot of money by not having me on the team. But then I counted how many Nitro trips I have and how many Leadership Journey trips there would be before the may trip. The reimbursements they were offering me would just about equal the cost to be a part of the Leadership Journey. I had so much joy at that moment. I talked to them and they were able to apply the reimbursement directly to my registration. God is amazing.

It gets better. A friend gave us a gas card as "late pastor appreciation". We used that gas card to go to seattle and get Jorge his passport. Another surprise provision.

Oh gets better. I felt like ministry life was coming back into focus for me - God will continue to equip me despite my circumstances. I've been working on track for my Sunday lessons, and even started working with 2 students to have key roles Sunday mornings - been fun. I started being more disciplined with my Berean courses. But I still felt like my marriage needed a boost. Jorge started meeting with someone for accountability. He also checked out a video series. He feels like he is learning a lot. But tonight I got a phone call. A couple from our church wants to bless us by sending us to the Weekend to Remember Conference - by Family Life Today! It is next month. Did you hear that? They want to bless us!

All over God is putting things into place for all areas of our life. I pray that we will be wise with what God has provided, that we will learn and grow from each of these upcoming events.

So right now, this week . . . life doesn't seem so stinky!

Chores and thoughts

2008-01-22T23:46:00.000-08:00

Aaaah the chore list! I'm loving it! We came up with 3 color groups - red, green, blue. Each color groups has 3 jobs assigned to it. The kids rotate weekly with color groups. laundry and dishes are each on a color group. Of course when Jeremiah has laundry - I have to help a lot (but its training right. if I can teach him to sort now - I'll have it made in a few years!) Cathy was great at dishes last week! She did a great job and did them pretty much on her own. She's got laundry this week. Jorgie has dishes this week - I help him, but he does pretty good. It's been good so far.

I've been watching more action type movies. Sort of scary to me. To think that such criminals really exist. I'm thankful that God is my protector and that I haven't dealt with such things face to face. But it makes me think of all that stuff that goes on in the world around me, and I just walk around with my daily routine. Is it enough to do the best I can with my kids and my family? To raise my little family to do right and love the Lord. Of course we will be witnesses to those around us and be part of global missions. But really, really will we or anyone reach these hardened criminals? Will any of us ever be in contact with these people who do wild and dangerous crimes? Maybe the concept is reach those around us and eventually we'll be raising up a new generation and there will be less and less criminals? I know everything in the movies is not real, but a lot of it could be real.

All right then.

an effort to blog

2008-01-13T14:47:00.000-08:00

I keep being disappointed that there's not much new to read - but then its been a real long time since I've written anything. Not much excitement has happened. We decided last night to go to walmart and get alarm clocks for everyone. For a long while we were doing pretty good at waking up at a decent hour to do schoolwork (decent hour being 9:30-10:00). However lately, past month or so we've been waking up at around noon! yeah daily around 11:45 - 12:00! we'd eat lunch and do whatever - then finally start on schoolwork around 2:00. Well Cathy has to do several hours of school in order to finish a course in a month. In theory time doesn't matter, except at about 4 everyone is itching to go somewhere - anywhere just to get out of the house (especially Jorge the dad). So its not a positive experience when the whole family is ready to go except we're all waiting for Cathy to finish. So we got alarm clocks for everyone so we could all get up earlier. Well today - they didn't help much. Jeremiah's didn't even make him stir. Cathy slept with me and got up when I got up - 45min after the alarm. I went to take a shower and could hear both Jorge and Cathy's alarm going off - and Jorge sound asleep! I guess we're all deep sleepers.

Sorry, but I'm stumped.

family thoughts

2007-12-17T19:48:00.000-08:00

My mom is gone to California. She left on thursday and will come back on the 27th - so a 2wk trip. She is spending about a week with my Tia Neomi (by dad's sister) and then a week in Indio with her siblings. Its got me thinking how for a good time we (my family growing up) went to California every christmas - usually spent most of our time with my dad's family and then a day or two with my mom's side. Then we kind of stopped going - at least didn't go every year. I've been thinking about Elia and her being away, yet she's come home every Christmas. Except this year she's not making it for Christmas, but for New Years. So I'm wondering. . . I suppose there will be a time where Elia may just stop coming home. Will I start going over to visit her? We haven't made it a priority to visit my husbands sister who is away. We didn't even really visit Abe and Deb when they were away in Seattle area. Will it eventually get to the point that I have to say "I haven't seen my sister for 3 years."? I hope not.

It's got me thinking. My last post -me crying with Rachel. I really think it was a moment of "i don't really know you". I don't know that I intentionally spent time with all my other nieces -but somehow I feel connected to them. I know growing up I didn't feel like I really knew my extended family. I remember thinking "my nieces and nephews are going to know me. I am going to know them. not just know who they are and that they exist but really know them" So what am I going to do about Elia and Mark's kids? I have this relationship goal for my nieces and nephews, but how can I make it a reality from afar? I suppose letter - blogs, email, making the most of the Christmas visits (I do feel like I knew my Tia Neomi -because that's where we spent the bulk of our time). Here I am thinking of all this, and Mark and Elia don't even have kids yet! But I think it is so easy to become a disconnected family. I don't even feel so connected to my nieces and nephews on Jorge's side and they are just in the Tri-Cities. I suppose it's because our priority has been here.

We decided to be more intentional with our time this year. We've actually started this month of December. In our life group we are going through a series by Andy Stanley called Taking it to the Limit. One session talked about our time and how all of our time is going to spent. We can't save it up and when we're on our death bed say "oh, wait. i can't die I've been saving up some time" Whether we plan how to spend it or not it will be used up. So we decided that we should spend some more time with the Najera's. So we are devoting one Friday a month to spending with them. Not much in terms of a month or how many days a week we see the Lara's. But hey its better than just chancing it and hoping that somehow we spend time together. So we had our first friday two weeks ago. It was fun to say "we're coming over" and Poncho saying "I'm not home I'm on my way from Yakima" then us saying "well we're doing a little shopping, but we put 'spend time with Najeras' on the calendar and we'd like to spend time with you" (see i know what you are thinking - you should have called ahead. tried that and it got nowhere except for "not sure what's going on friday. just call us friday" - they're not big on planning ahead) But they're response was fun "oh, wow on the calendar! Ok we'll be home in half an hour and we'll have pizza". Turned out that the ladies were having an end of year get together at their church so they scrounged around for a ticket for me. I got to go spend time with my sister in laws - and watch a very funny fashion show given by ladies from their church - really a good level of excellence in their performance and the event (you know me always looking out for ideas). Then I spent time talking to my nieces - found out that there was a dance exhibition for Jordana's dance team the next day. I even chose to wake up early to go see her perform!

Anyhow, enough family ramblings. Oh yeah! Our church Christmas Variety Show is this Wednesday at 7:00 PM. Don't know what that is? Well come on out and check it out.

Rachel made me cry!

2007-11-30T16:37:00.001-08:00

I was baby-sitting on Monday afternoon while Deb had a doctor appointment. All the kids had gone downstairs to play and it as just Rachel and I upstairs. Rachel had made her way on top of the kitchen table, so I grabbed her. I was holding her and Klove was on so I began to dance around the house with her. I wouldn't say she 'loved' the experience. She just sort of looked at me, half smile here and there. But she didn't protest. So I kept twirling around. I started tearing up an everything. I haven't nailed down why. Did I cry because -I don't have my own little one to twirl around with, and oh how I want one - or because I've never really twirled around with Rachel before so maybe I feel like man I don't even know this one! - or maybe it reminded me of my dad and Abby. I don't know - but I did cry (thank goodness everyone else was downstairs), and she just let me twirl as I wanted. It was a great moment. I stopped a minute to take a picture because I wanted to remember it.

We got a new van. Well you know what I mean - used, but new to us. It is a 96 ford windstar. It is a year older than my white car - but a year newer than my old van. We sold our car to Manny who was happy to have a car - although he needs to practice driving stick! The experience was a great reinforcement of the FPU principles of not borrowing money. I was telling Jorge "can you believe this van is a year newer than our old one - and we paid way over 3x as much for our other one because we financed it - and not to mention got a good deal for paying cash on this one." Manny was also happy to have a car without a car payment. So its light blue, tinted window, and has "captains chairs" - only a bench seat in back, middle and front have separate seats.

So what do you all eat for Christmas? I am wondering what we are going to eat for Christmas? I'm not really wanting a "thanksgiving round two" - I'm not much of a turkey fan, we too have turkey still in our fridge. What would be special - not so ordinary.

Oh, Susan - I hope your new job is all you hoped and more. Also we're trying something new out with our dog. We've fixed up the front yard for her so she can run around unleashed - hopefully she doesn't push too hard on the front gate - or realize that if she stands on the steps she can hop over the fence (that's how her backyard jumps started at mom's, standing on something and realized she could). We do let her in quite a bit now -since yesterday. We'll see how it all works out. Just thought you'd like to know since you were so concerned with "being tied up is no life". Hopefully she is enjoying her life more.

Oh yeah. My kids got sort of unnerved by a car that past by. They were all playing in the snow yesterday morning and a car at the stop rolled down their window and said "aren't you kids supposed to be in school - did you get kicked out". Cathy came running in to tell me. I asked what their reply was - none of them said anything back. Cathy didn't want to go out anymore. She sat at the window and said she saw the car come by a few more times. Jorge didn't care. He said he was going to say "we're home-schooled and we're at recess".

Ok. That's all.

I've got a writer!

2007-11-14T16:44:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of him! Jeremiah wrote his name completely unassisted! There were no dots to trace. I didn't tell him the letters to write. I didn't hold his had. Earlier in the day he was on the computer playing a game and it said, "type in your name" I glanced over and there he was typing it in. We'd been playing a game - for a while now- where we cut out all the letters in his name and scrambled them up and he had to put them in order. Anyhow, later in the day he got a white board and marker and announced that he was going to write his name. I said ok and sat back to watch. And he did it! Then I asked him to write it on a paper so we could put it up on the refrigerator. Once again he did it. I am a very proud mother. I went to the doctor yesterday and was bragging about him. She asked how my kids were and if Jeremiah went to preschool or anything yet. I said, "he doesn't go to school, but he is learning" She was impressed and said, "wow that's great for three, and he has a long name - its not like he's writing Bob." Anyhow, some of you already got a personal call from Jeremiah - "i wrote my name with no dots!" But to the rest of the world he's doing great.

Stuff

2007-11-08T15:03:00.000-08:00

When my grandma died, we took some of her roses and planted them at my mom's house. We also took this plant that she had. It has been by mom's continuous effort that the plant is still alive. She cared for it . . . including reprimanding little hands that would pull on the leaves! So I have a plant that I call my dad's plant. Even though my dad never even saw it. It was sent for the funeral by my sisters work. I don't even know what kind of plant it is . . . a leafy thing with green/orange leaves. I just liked it. Also the orange color I thought would go great with the color scheme for my new house. So I took ownership over that plant. I don't know much about plants and how to keep them living, but I water it and open up the curtains for it. It is growing. I think it will get pretty big, wonder if I will be pruning this thing! So it reminds me of my dad even though he never owned the plant, and it was given to him by a place he never knew. But to me its my dad's plant - especially since he's the one that wanted all grandmas' plants.

So how much electricity is really lost with old windows? We got our first electricity bill today and it was much higher than I thought. So I'm thinking about becoming the light police. Right now I don't have any lights - just opened up the curtains. It's fine . . but I still kind of feel like it's dark. I like well lit rooms. We were told that maybe we don't have much insulation in the "attic" area. I know underneath the dining room is uninsulated. So it must be a combination of all these things. We are hoping to get the windows redone in Feb or Mar. when we get our income taxes. But then I wanted to get a van at that time. Hmm.

We are heading off to the Children's Leaders Retreat. Tonight, tomorrow, and Sat. I enjoy the time to learn from others, hear relevant speakers, and just see people. I have been invited by the district to be a part of a "Leadership Journey 2008". It is a closed group made up of Children and Youth Pastors that will read books, meet, discuss, and even get to travel. The purpose is to build connections, sharpen skills, and have exposure to different ministry models. We get to go to California in May/June to visit four different churches that are "doing ministry well, but using different models". I am excited about being invited and also about the opportunity to build relationships and learn more about my field.

Silliness

2007-10-29T18:17:00.000-07:00

So would you let your kids make each other laugh so hard that they spit their juice out of their mouth .. totally on purpose! This was a fun thing that we used to do as kids. Someone would take a drink and then other two would try to make them laugh so that they would spit their drink all over the place. Very fun, very entertaining. Now last week, Jeremiah was watching Rachel and he had his mouth full of some drink . . I think she dropped her bottle and he just cracked up and spit out his drink. It was quite funny to watch actually. So it got me thinking as a mom, would I let my kids do that on purpose. Or would I be more concerned with the mess, the wasted juice, etc. Part of me I would think would tell them to stop. The other part of me would just want to let them make memories. Hmmm. How much fun do we so easily stop?? The kids and I were eating dinner and they were acting kind of silly. Well pretty silly. One of them would say something like "taco sauce" and everyone would begin laughing. Then it was are you ticklish? Before I could answer Cathy said "on her funny bone" bursts of giggle from the boys. Then I said "what about my boring bone or my scratchy bone? Outrageous laughter. Somedays I don't want to be silly and I tell them to stop and behave. Other days like to day I was like "hey their not fighting, so just go with it". Anyhow got me thinking . . . how much silliness do we need to put a stop to and how much should we as adults just lighten up? Any thoughts

Oh yeah. I wanted to post a slideshow about my house but I can't seem to figure out how.

Grandview here we are.

2007-10-24T23:01:00.000-07:00

I feel like we became grandviewites this morning. We got up and went for a walk through downtown Grandview. We went in about every business (except all the insurance offices). We looked at what they had to offer. We even got the boys haircuts at a local salon. Found an antique store that I didn't know was there. They have appliances and other furniture. It sounded kind of funny at the hair salon. Jeremiah at first didn't want to get his haircut - because "we don't come here". Then I told him we live in Grandview now and I wanted to get to know some of the places in Grandview (not like we ever got haircuts in Prosser of anything, but I thought - let's see what the locals have to offer). He said, "yeah a new place". But it so sounded like we had moved from far away! It was a very enjoyable walk, and I enjoyed looking around Grandview.

I have been very blessed with the generosity and service of others with my new home. We've been discussing "joy of giving and serving" at church this whole month. This week is "bringing it home" and I have about 5 min. to share. I am being a bit inspired. I hope to have a short slide show put together. Bringing it Home - it''s the real thing. I sit in my living room and think "is this really my home!" The downstairs is just days from being done (if we get back to work - since getting the upstairs "pretty much" finished we haven't been such workaholics). Tomorrow everyone will be sleeping in their own bed, in their own room.

Family. I miss my mom. I think about her everyday. Although I have still managed to see her at least every other day. She stops by when she subs in Grandview, and I've gone over to get more stuff. Today was special to me because Jorge gave my mom a key to the house. That meant a lot to me. If she's subbing in Grandview she can come over and raid our fridge for lunch even if we're not here. She can let herself in and greet us when we arrive home. I had my brother's family over for dinner on Monday. I enjoyed cooking for them, and figuring out how to seat so many people! The table extends so it was big enough, but I was short on dining chairs. However I did have computer desk chairs and a bench step ladder that with a towel on served as a bench seat. I love the upstairs/downstairs thing. Kids could play down there and we could still carryon a conversation.

I put up some curtains last night - living room. I sort of miss watching the cars go by. I remember my dad used to sit and watch out the window. I guess people watching runs in the family. Every once in a while I see one of you people I know on your way to Safeway. There are so many semi trucks that pass by. I don't know, I just look and think about the people and their lives. On the go. All the dads working at night driving those trucks and working at the warehouses. Jorge works afternoon/evenings on the weekends. I'm used to it now. When he started I didn't know what to do with my time. Now I usually spend it with people in someway. Either I spend it with friends or I babysit for someone (usually if people ask me to babysit, I say yes on the nights Jorge works - out of respect for family time I want to leave other evenings - well tuesday and friday (wed. church, thurs. small group) available for us. So that has become my general rule of thumb. When I watch the trucks go by, I wonder what their wives and kids are doing. Are they spending time in community with people. Are they home just wishing their father/spouse was home. Are they having special bonding moments with their kids. Maybe they are just watching TV. Well anyhow it gives me lots to think about when I look out my window.

A saturday with nothing planned.

2007-10-20T23:35:00.000-07:00

So we are here! Today was the best saturday ever! And we didn't do anything! That's the whole point. I just stayed home. Didn't do any trips - although there are still trips to do (storage stuff). Didn't do any painting, although there is still painting to do! I've had people around pretty much all day. Jorge had "starbucks with the guys" this morning. A friend also went and I watched his two girls. My kids were still asleep so I had them help me clean my room, hang up my clothes and such. Nice to talk to them. Don't get time like that often, usually the kids are playing etc. Meanwhile, Abe stopped by with churros! Then a friend of Jorge from Yak. came down to work on the heating system for downstairs - needs vents in bedrooms down there. I was thinking I had to cook lunch for all of us, but my loving mother brought over lunch. I love you mom. When the guys came back, Johnny fixed my mom's car! (it had a broken hose) Then my friend Vicki came over with her kids. We chatted for a bit. She left to run errands, but I asked her to stop by on the way back. She did and she helped me unpack boxes, take boxes downstairs for storage. helped make the house much more livable! Thank you so much Vicki for just being around. I am blessed for people like you that show up and do mind getting in there! Then they left - took Cathy with them to spend the night. I had a few hours for to do laundry, and work on a sermon. Then I babysat my other friends two kids (this was sleeping time though after 9) while she went out bowling with her cousin from out of town. I let the kids slide around on the hardwood floors for about 15 min. then put everyone to bed. What a day, and I had nothing happening today. Isn't "community" a great feeling. It has been for me lately.

It was great. Next week I hope to actually finish up. We have another trip to do at my mom's, and clean up around her house. Then, we still need to drywall the ceiling of the laundry room (cobweb city). and lay bits of carpet (kids rooms are done, but ran a little short for the living area). I have trim work to do around up and downstairs. We really can't set up my kids rooms, since they don't have mattresses! Jeremiah does, but the others don't. Hey we have two couches they can sleep on that were given to us (even though I had said "i am not having those couches" - well as deb said "you get what you get and you don't throw a fit"

The end is coming! yeah. I am excited for more great days. Inviting people over for dinner . . . great stuff.

Here it is - another post

2007-10-14T16:28:00.001-07:00

Oh my word! How embarrassing! It has been so long between post and the last one doesn't really count!

I am feeling very exhausted! In every sense of the word. It reminds me of the month of July! I was so exhausted after mexico and kids camp stuff.

We got our house! We officially got the keys the same day as my father's service! Imagine that. We have been going on it nonstop. Lots of repairs, facelifts, etc. to do for it. We are finally getting to the point that we can finish up the upstairs. I was hoping to be at that point on Friday - but the sanders were all rented out! We have hardwood floors upstairs and are sanding them to refinish them. I really wanted carpet in the bedrooms upstairs but when counting the cost - hardwood was the way to go. So we will get carpet for downstairs to help warm it up (downstairs is a basement). However, we have to wait until Jorge gets paid (thursday) for the carpet - by the time it is actually purchased and installed, grr. So I am giving in and moving in upstairs as soon as it is done. I am tired of driving to Grandview everyday, eating burritos for dinner, etc. Our routine has been - Jorge gets to the house around 9 am. I do school with the kids until around 1pm and then head to Grandview and work (yes i work! I have done the majority of the painting - we've painted all rooms, trim, cleaning, this week i'll be helping refinsh the floor and install the floor wall trims). Depending on the day is when we call it quits. Tues/Friday we work until 9. Wed/Thur until 6 or 7, since we have church and small groups. I am excited to just BE. We're all tired of just being strained from giving each other proper attention. All of our focus is on the house - time, money, etc. It will be nice to just be home - even if it is only upstairs.

So many have asked "what's your mom going to do with the whole house." others have asked "are you having second thoughts about leaving your mom right now".

I remember the night before my dad died. He had a fever and was falling off the bed, throwing up and choking. My mom yelled for us to help. We ran over and Jorge helped him up. I remember thinking . . what's going to happen when I move. Will she call us? Or just wait - when my dad would fall while Jorge was at work if we couldn't get him up we laid him down and he just waited until Jorge got home. That was when I was concerned about moving out. I know my mom will be ok. She is a strong woman, relying on the Lord. On another note she has invited a friend of mine to live with her. I had previously offered her and her kids a home when I got mine (hey why break mine and Jorge's tradition!). But when my father passed, my mom offered her home. My friend made the choice to move into my mom's home - after we get out. So she won't really have the whole house all to herself. My mom is also planning on doing some traveling and visiting her family.

So that is the update I have. Jorgie wants a blog. I am working on a Mac one for him - just to try it out. But I feel like I haven't had any time.

Service times.

2007-09-22T19:05:00.000-07:00

We will be holding an evening service 7:00 pm Friday - Sept. 28th @ Grandview Assembly of God. We will also have a graveside service 10:00 am Saturday Sept. 29th @ Prosser Cementary. Just to let the blog world know.

Daddy

2007-09-19T21:29:00.000-07:00

My dad. As far as I can think back I remember holding onto my dad and swinging in circles around the room - dancing. I wonder if my kids will remember things like that. I really do - its not that I was always told about it, but I actually remember it. When I was young, my mom says, I told someone matter of fact "i know my daddy loves me, and that's that!" What else did I really need to know in life? I could be a world genius - but sad and alone with out the love of a father. You know they say that babies in orphanages can have all their physical needs met, but without love they die. So I think about that - many times I wish my dad would have done different things with us (you know typical dad stuff - camping, ball games, etc) - but when I really think about it. He did a good job of the most important thing - making sure we knew that daddy loved us. I have lots of memories with the cows at the ranch. He loved that - his form of recreation. He did have some sense of a balanced life - he did Pastoral work, but he also worked his cows for the fun of it. Makes me think - do I have the same balance. What part of my life is just for me to enjoy? When I look on his life . . . he did have a lot of things right. I consider him to be a wise man, anointed. People continually came to him for counsel. A very patient man, slow to anger. I can't really remember when he was angry. I don't remember him getting after us kids much - or even my rambunctious boys (well sometimes!) I have fond memories of his with my young girls. The first years of their life, he was there almost everyday (and we lived in Yakima). He would lay on the floor and let them climb all over him. I even remember the first time I let him "babysit" my kids. The girls were 2 years. He was "sick" but still able to walk around. I had to run downtown, my girls were asleep. So I went for it. I wasn't sure what to expect when I returned. I came home to smoke all over the kitchen. My girls had woken up, crying. My dad got up from his sleep (boy did he like to sleep) and was trying to make them breakfast. He was frying hot dogs - burnt hot dogs! But I was so proud that my dad actually was making an effort. He did what he could. In many ways, he opened our home to many people. Single people, and families who needed a place to stay. He did what he could for our family. We didn't have it all, but we didn't need it all either. As his life changed, it was hard to see. The life that he enjoyed so much, diminishing. Yet, people still came over to seek his wisdom. Even me. When I really wanted to know - I still asked my dad. He didn't let me down. He was a man of intentional words. When he spoke it was because he had something to say. I appreciate every moment, every memory. Even these last days, when he was awake and Jeremiah would play catch with him. When I first laid eyes on his body - after he passed - there was a sense of peace. It was peaceful for me to see him without breath, than struggling to breathe. I love my daddy. I want my daddy. But God knows my daddy. I close my eyes and I watch as he dances around heaven holding my baby in his arms - just as he once held me. Now that is a beautiful picture to imagine.

Updates

2007-08-30T22:36:00.000-07:00

So here I am. Tomorrow is the last day of the month. We are supposed to be closing on our house. But it is taking longer than we thought. They called today and said that things are approved upon meeting some conditions. Because our credit history is not great we need to produce documentation or letters with 3 different entities stating good payment history. So we are trying to speed those up a bit. I also had to write a detailed letter stating why our credit report is as it is, what we have learned from our mistakes, what action we have take to improve and ensure we do not continue our past pattern (thank goodness we took financial peace university - sure looks good right now.), etc. So today we were trying to get letters, etc. I hope that we can turn everything in soon. Technically we have until the 15th of Sept. to close before we start paying penalties per day. So I think we can get these letters in by then but I hope that once the stipulations are met, things move quickly.

Sept. 5th we start school. I opted for the online school option. I was weighing my reasons for not doing it, and it seemed so selfish. I thought my kids could benefit academically from it, but I was choosing to send them to public school so that I could have time to do my things. I decided that my kids needed to come first and my other agendas needed to come after them. So if it looked like online school might be best for them, then I needed to do that -at least give it a try. It is very nice knowing I don't have to wake up at 7 am! I plan to have school time start at 10 am. So I can get up and do breakfast - get them up around 9 (well the boys are already up around 8, but Cathy, well she takes after me). From what I read they can stay on track with about 2-3 hours a day. So that sound like school could be done around noon or 1. On a side note, Susan, I tried calling you today but your line was busy just to see how things are going for you at school. I'm sure the new me is much greater than me!

Jorge worked a lot of overtime last week - they had some special training. He got called in for a few hours tonight too. So we are expecting a pretty good check soon. I hope we have our house then. The extra $ is scheduled to be used for fixing or furnishing the house. We were looking around at Lowes today and I am getting excited about new things. Furniture is much more expensive than I thought - so we may just have to see what people are giving away at the time - Hey I know of two 70s looking flowered couches at the church that are up for grabs! Ha!

My computer had a slight crack - well not really a crack, but a piece coming ungluded. It was fixed today and they replaced the whole covering (the part the keys poke through). I thought they'd just use some sort of sealer or adheasive to bind it back together. so now my touch pad is not worn anymore! Jorge thinks that I should purchase the extended warranty since I still can. i'm not sure - Abe do you get the extra two years?

So who still checks my blog - since I have become one of those irritating people who never post anymore! Like Elia - who is still just engaged! According to her blog!

School days??

2007-08-19T23:39:00.000-07:00

One week until school begins and I still have no idea what we are doing for school. I won't be moved into my new house by then. We are hoping to close by the end of the month and then have some repairs to do before moving in. So we could start in Prosser then move to Grandview schools. Or try and figure a way to get them started in Grandview. Then there's online school. Achieve Online offers free tuition to WA residences. It's actually a nice way to "homeschool". You choose a mentor, which is a certified teacher. This mentor then gives you your assignments - both online and offline course work. The mentor corrects the assignments and modifies your plan to fit your needs. You must pass by 80% to continue - which is a much better standard than public school, because then you know that you have mastered the material and are not getting lost by just being moved forward because the rest of the class is moving forward. Your mentor is also available by phone or email to answer any questions or give words of encouragement to the students. It sounds like there would be some good accountability and a good standard for learning objectives. Which were my chief concerns previously with homeschool - would I actually do school or just get lazy and how do i know that they are learning what they need to. Both of those concerns would be addressed by having a mentor. However my dilemma is, I chose not to return to work this year because I was feeling like I never had time to focus on ministry and my own studies, without skipping out on my kids. Having the kids at school would give me plenty of time to focus on those things. Then when they came home I wouldn't have to be working. Homeschooling compounds that. I sort of mapped out a daily plan - it could work. School for a few hours and then I would do my own work - but what would they be doing during that time?? Would I actually have enough peace and quiet to get my work done? Aaaaaaagh. So many things to consider. I know that you can start and stop the online school anytime - but quitting would feel like a failure. Hmmm. Any insights?

My life in a rush.

2007-08-11T22:41:00.001-07:00

Ok. I have not dropped off the face of the planet. I have just been busy. I went to Mexico. that was great. Then came home for a few days and left for an awesome anniversary vacation with Jorge. Everything he planned was great. We stayed at a beautiful charming hotel. Walked around the bay. Kayaking, horseback riding on a trail and then winding up by the beach at sunset. Unbelievable - even though my back and legs were so sore! 3 hours at one time was a lot for me. but worth it. Then I came home for one night and left for a week of kids camp. Kids camp this year was amazing. I got to really network with some people. I feel like a know a lot more people from around the network. I was part of the camp staff team. I organized the morning sessions. Jorge went with me and helped out. The most precious moment. The words I have been waiting for years to hear. He was praying for kids at the alter. then he sat down with me and said, "thank you." I said for what. he said, "for letting me see why you do what you do. I never saw it before - why you would want to be with kids. but now I see it and I want to be a part of it. i don't want to miss out on what God is doing in kids lives." that was a prayer I'd been praying for years - both for our home and for ministry. the best part was that Jorge was sharing his experience with several pastors from the area and they are holding him accountable. He has kept in touch with them. God is awesome. Then I came home from kids camp and had one week before Elia's wedding! Deborah and I have done pretty much all of the planning and coordinating for the wedding. I was pleased with how it all came out. The flowers and table decorations were beautiful - thank you Donna and Dennis. The food was prepared and my mom didn't have to be in the kitchen at all during the reception (she did prepare a dish to bring - couldn't have a wedding without mexican food!) - thanks Dawn and Jordan. My mom made all the little girls dresses. Jeremiah didn't want to stand where he was supposed to, but oh well - nothing can be perfect! Vernice came along to be extra hands - clear plates, light candles, and help clean up - it was great to have someone around. Holly helped to make up beautiful - thank you. I appreciate everyone who was a part - Abe officiated and he did a great job! I heard several compliments. mark's family was great to meet.
Well that's pretty much been my life for the past month! Oh yeah. Our bid was accepted on a house in Grandview. I hope to close before the month is over. I still don't understand why closing takes so long - but everyone says it does. I hope to be able to enroll my kids into Arthur Smith Elementary School - by safeway. our house is also by safeway. But I'm not sure how it will work out, since I can't get mail there until it closes. Once we close we still have some things to repair in the house before we move in. If we have an address we can enroll the kids. I may have to drive them over - but I'd rather have then start off the year in the new school than switch a few weeks into the school year. Ok. Now I think that is officially it.

Another few days.

2007-07-13T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well it is Friday. We have had two days of doing kids ministry. The engage house is in a much wealthier part of Guadalajara than the areas that we have gone to minister to. The areas we have gone to are poorer than anything I myself have ever experienced. The roads a very bad. Mostly rocks and lots of dirt. The kids there are just looking for something to do. We just walked down the streets telling kids "we're going to have a kids program at your park, come on over" and they all did. They came. Our program was pretty minimal. Just what the engage team usually does (they go to this area every thursday). We did some songs to motions. Played simple games like soccer, red light green light. I got to do the Bible Story ( I narrated and had abe and some of the kids act it out) - I had fun with that. I was complimented by several leaders - so thats always nice. I got to do a job that I have never done - dog patrol. There are so many stray dogs. they are pretty tame, however, there was a group from Georgia that wanted to be involved with our thing and they were doing a drama that had some evil people. Well whenever the evil people started their stuff all the dogs started trying to go after them. So I was on the side shooing the dogs away before they could make to the front! So we did our first program. Then went home for lunch. Then we headed to another "park" just on the other side of the the same houses. So we had many of the same kids for our afternoon program (repeat). I did the same story but used the kids more. They remembered it. The we handed out sandwiches and juice.

Today we went to another area. and did a different "kids ministry" program. we invited and again they came. We played soccer for a really long time! I was sweating with the girls (more boys) because we had to play until the boys finished their tournament. I was dying out there (I'd been assigned the girls by the director - church pastors son). It was even worse when I stopped for water - we take a big jug for our team - and they all wanted some. But I wasn't sure about giving them some, because then we'd have to give everyone water and we wouldn't have enough. Finally I broke down - emptied my pepsi bottle (i'd been using abe's water bottle) and gave it to the girls to share - just one pepsi bottle for all of them.

That I think has been one of the hardest things. There is such need around here. Spiritual and physical. clothes, shoes, water, food (I talked to a very skinny 12 year old), entertainment. Everything. How do the missionaries deal with that - not being able to meet all the needs. i suppose scripture tells us "my God shall supply all my need". They just like seeing us. They ask me my name, they come by and just touch my arm and smile. They beam when I'm in the middle of a song routine and I look in the eye and smile.

Tomorrow is youth ministry day - soccer tournaments again. I wonder how the youth will respond. The church has never tried doing a youth event, so its an experiment.

Another day.

2007-07-11T22:21:00.000-07:00

OK. So here you have a picture of the landing in the Mexican airport. When you land you just walk down the steps and a bus picks you up. Totally unexpected when you come to the plane door! Nancy still hasn't received her luggage. We found a few things for her at walmart, but it was difficult. Hope it comes tomorrow.

They you have a picture of a mexican policeman riding along on a horse. Another interesting thing I haven't taken a picture of is the street vendors. And I mean literally street vendors. They walk on the road between the cars selling newspapers, calling cards, candy, or offering to wash your windshield. They other picture is of the church the we are working with for the week. Just a big room with plastic chairs. They have a small sound system, but the pastors do own a Mac. That was interesting.

We learned dance moves to 5-6 songs. so we are getting plenty of exercise. Tomorrow we are doing a food ministry. Go to a neighborhood and feed people then do a bible story and such. Later in the week we are doing youth ministry (the church here would like do experiment with youth ministry rather than kids - its new). We will be having sort of like a soccer tournament. Inviting youth from a park (i think) to play on our teams. We will have the tournament then have dramas, songs, message, testimonies, etc. We haven't planned much else.

There is a small store (smaller than the corner store at GAG) by the church. I bought a Pepsi. It was a liter and cost $7 in mexican money - which was about .70 in american. That was a great buy! It tasted sort of like american coke to me. Someone said they think that the mexican coke actually tastes like american pepsi! Like they got it all switched around. No wonder people in mexico like coke - it tastes like pepsi!

Oh yeah, when we came out of walmart - our bus was broken down! So after a bit they sent a van for us. However we were too many for the van (the yakima team and ours) so they were going to have to come back for us. Well nancy got to ride in the van. But conveniently a taxi pulled. So we all crammed into one taxi. yep all of us in a 5 passenger car with the driver taking a seat of course. We let Keven ride up front because he had the longest legs. Fun

Have a good night!

Beginning.

2007-07-11T08:55:00.000-07:00

Well we also made it to Mexico. The Engage House (missionary & intern house) is absolutely beautiful! Made out of stone or something. Marble flooring, granite countertops. I took pictures. Maybe tonight I'll get a chance to download some of the pictures. I haven't visited any missionaries before, but I'm guessing this is pretty luxurious. Our motel room is ok. Not so fancy like this house here. But I haven't had any bugs in my room - I checked my blankets before hopping in bed! I got a warm shower which was a big blessing! Some people didn't get warm showers. I think they didn't know which knob was which. You have to use only the hot. The bed was hard, but warm. I suppose I'd take warm over soft so that is good. Nancy lost her luggage. They are hoping to have it today. We hope we are available when they call. We haven't gone to any convenience stores yet and I am dying for a pop! Also I need to get a contact lens case. Abe took a run this morning and went to a store, but he didn't find one. There is a pharmacy close by here hopefully they have one. We also haven't exchanged any money. But one of the gals her at the engage house is going to exchange $20 for me! yeah! That way if we happen to be by a store I'm ready!

We learned 3 songs (movements) yesterday that we will do in a presentation at a church - or maybe in a park or street. That was fun. Especially watching everyone's coordination.

One interesting thing that I have noticed is that Guadalajara is big, but there are no skyscrapers like Seattle. On the freeway in - one side of the freeway was very poor looking, but you look on the other side and there were beautiful homes and buildings! I guess "the other side of the tracks" is actually "the other side of the freeway". It will be interesting to see the church we are going to today. More thoughts later.

made it.

2007-07-09T21:31:00.000-07:00

Well we made it to Portland. We will be heading to the airport at 3 am. Then finally off to Mexico. It took us quite a while to make it all the way to our hotel. Leaving late, bathroom stop, lunch, walmart run, hotel - then dinner, getting half of us lost, safeway run, then back to hotel. Good thing we left early! Well just wanted to let you know we are here.

Just a quick note.

2007-07-07T22:36:00.000-07:00

We will soon be on our way. We leave for Portland on Monday morning. We'll spend the day there and get some sleep at a hotel. Then head to the airport by 3 am Tuesday. We fly out at 5 am. I am excited to spend time with my daughter. I love these one on one times. Granted there will be others in our group and we will be busy. But one to one time with my kids is when I really see them. They're not just one of the bunch, but I can really see their thoughts and feelings. i am excited about that.

AAAAAAAGH! I just saw a mouse! It was in my bathroom. Anyone have any great mouse catching ideas? We used to get those sticky traps from walmart, but they don't work anymore. The mice know the smell now and just wal around it. We need another way. Your ideas would be very helpfu.

Pray for us all. We have hopes and dreams for our familly. A blessed mission trip, a home of ours, stregnth and bonding for our family.

the Race

2007-06-25T22:40:00.000-07:00

So Jorgie was running around the house and I said, "you run so much you should be in a race." He said, "OK". So I decided that we should go have a race! We went to the stadium and raced one lap around the track. It was very fun. Jorgie won. I stayed and helped Jeremiah along the way. He made it, but had a couple falls. They were all smiles. Then they did another race - just on the long straight stretch (forgot how long that is). Then we did a "baton"race. We had to use a battery for the baton. We had a lot of fun. Then we climbed up the stadium hill and rolled down it. What an easy way to entertain the boys.

That was on Saturday. Today we tried out a homemade finger paint recipe that I found in a magazine. I think that it worked pretty well - except that my paper was too thin. They liked making it. I liked feeling like a fun mom. It was worth the time spent. I think I will keep trying to find simple easy things to do. They don't take up the whole day, but they add variety to our days. I found that there are lots of websites out there with stuff do do. Just google summer day activities. I also have some "Busy Books" I bought one year.

Well we leave pretty soon for Mexico. I am getting excited for that. We aren't all the way paid off, but there's still time! On another subject we are looking into buying a house in Grandview. It sound like all the stuff will be happening when I am gone. Wouldn't it be exciting to come home and find I have a new home! Well it's a little complicated. The house isn't technically out on the market yet. There is a for sale by HUD housing sign on it. The HUD housing place has a law that before they put it out on the market they open it for sale to hurricane katrina victims. So that is where it is right now. If nobody wants to buy it (which they say out here in WA it is not likely that there will be any Katrina victims) they open it up. So they say it should open to others in the next week or two. So that puts it to Mexico time. I hope they don't really need me!

Recent happenings.

2007-06-16T23:50:00.000-07:00

Well I've had fun being with my sister this week. A great surpise for my parents and my kids. I knew since march, but it was a secret from everyone else. It was killing me to keep it in. It was fun to try on bridesmaids dresses. Cathy is pretty excited for a new dress and looking all "grown up".

Cathy is sure growing so much. I am excited for growth in our relationship as mother and daughter. I am excited for hanging around with her friends She has a friend who calls and even if Cathy is not home - she just chats with me. Also for all the days of shopping and hair dos, nail painting, and make up. I love it when she says "mom lets just lay in the bed and talk". We've done that since she was little. I pray that we will always continue to do that.

We did our "endurance climb" today. We had to climb the hill behind my house - the whole way to the top. The concept is that we help each other along the way. Don't let anyone give up. It was an interesting feeling as Cathy got tired and felt like throwing up. I was tired. But I had her grab my waist and I pulled her along. I was the donkey and she was my cargo. It was this time of thinking for me - I must carry my child. She will not fail this task. I don't know how to explain it. I was glad for the experience.

Have you ever smelled deoderant? Well I was going on a "Walmart run" with Elia and Jorge asked us to pick up some deoderant for him. Well I decided I wanted to get him a different one. So there I was smelling all the deodants. There were some hat I definately didn't like - Old Spice. But there was the TAG brand. I sort of liked them. They had names like "lucky", "midnight", "all nighter" etc. Well I was going strickly by smell and I chose all nighter. The picture is purple with shadows of a city and a girl on it. Well it was priceless to see Jorge's face as I handed him the bag. His eyes lit up and he said "oh really". Then I told him, I just liked the smell - I smelled them all!"

Tomorrow is Father's Day. We don't have big plans. We don't have evening service either. Jorge has to work. My dad will probably sleep all day. My mom has declared that she is sleeping after dropping off Elia (noon). So I really don't know what I will do to occupy myself. What fun and exciting thing could I do. Or maybe not exciting, but just not boring. Well I'll elt you all know what I decided.

reallife.kids SPLASH and other stuff.

2007-06-07T01:05:00.000-07:00

Just a few more days for our kids SPLASH. I absolutely love events. Its fun to get everyone together and just have a blast. Just have some fun. Everyone needs fun you know. I pray that saturday will be very hot. My plan is to have everyone soaked. Hope no one has plans to stay dray at our water party! I've got my whole team involved and I am sooo excited about that. Even Pam in Shirley will get wet!

oh, I had a d&c on tuesday morning. everything went fine. i am feeling good. I am anticipating being able to swim on saturday. Thanks Jeannie for the German Chocolate Cake. It was wonderful. I'm almost done with it!

Abe and Deb are you guys back online yet? June wasn't it - when your media fast was going to be over?? they've got me thinking about homeschooling stuff. I hate workbooks. I never liked them when I worked at school. Everyday was just turn the page in your workbook. I like hands on learning. I like projects. Fun stuff. I know there is a time and place for workbooks, but that would get pretty boring for me. I ordered a curriculum catalogue - but don't know if I'll find what I want. Anyways, Laras, was just wondering if you'd found great hands on curriculum in your homeschooling search. Jeannie weren't you thinking about it too?? Oh, I don't know - it would be work.

I feel like everything is just around the corner! kids SPLASH is finally here. the Mexico trip is coming upon us. Then kids camp is on its way. then well have a summer outreach event - something different this year. then the summer is gone! it hasn't even started, but its gone. we finish one great thing and begin planning for the next. Of course there are lots of days in between for us to do personal stuff - hmmm what personal family plans shall I have. I should come up with some.

Jorge has been finishing Cathy's playhouse. He's putting in sheetrock and electricity. Also linoleum on the bottom floor and carpet on the top floor. she want's him to have it finished by friday so she and Isabel can spend the night outside! I am excited for her.

Jorge is planning an anniversary vacation for he and I. That is just driving me crazy! I almost can't stand not knowing.

Maybe I should have a summer cousin camp! Hmmm. plan some activities, some field trips. Hmm. when Abe had cousin camp he had the kids up at dawn. not here - i'll let them stay up till midnight or something, just hoping that they will sleep in some - with my luck they won't!

Clean rooms are so comforting!

2007-06-01T21:50:00.000-07:00

What a great way to come home! Tonight I was at a friends house and that was very good for me. It was good to talk and just visit with someone. But I came home and the kids rooms were clean and my room was clean! Even my desk. They all helped out and it meant so much for me. The clean desk is really what topped it off. Thanks Jorge and kids for working together.

It got me thinking about Gary Chapman's 5 Love Languages. He says that people give and receive love in their primary love language. The love languages are: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Physical Touch, Receiving Gifts. So we have a primary love language. When people love us in that way we feel most loved. The tricky part is we most often give love in that way since that's how we feel loved - even thought that may not be the way they feel loved. I always saw myself as a quality time girl - but after tonight, maybe acts of service is good too, Oh, but I think quality time is my winner - because I associated the act with the time they spent on me. You can read more about the love languages in his book or website; www.fivelovelanguages.com. Its a good read for couples - however it can make you more aware of how you are not showing love to your spouse in the right way. Ladies - most men are rated Physical Touch. So it can be a very conscious effort on your part to show love that way if it is not your primary love language. But in any respect it is good to know.

Its time to submit my resignation letter for school. I'm not sure why I hesitate. I know the plans I have for next year. I guess its one of those things, you know just finalizing it all. I hadn't done it because I had been given medical leave for the rest of the school year. And terminating my employment would terminate by medical - and when you are on medical leave you kind of need medical. But my leave is up in July so it is time - they told me if I wrote a letter stating I wouldn't return next year then my resignation wouldn't start until that time - i'd keep my medical as long as i've paid into it, but they could find a replacement. So it is time.

It will be good for me to align myself appropriately. I have been slacking on my ministerial studies. I need to get back into the swing of things. When I first took time off, I made lists everyday of what I planned to accomplish - what I wanted to research, any church work, any house chores (usually not), appointments. I got a lot done. But then pregnancy set in and all I wanted to do was sleep. I am serious this has been my most draining pregnancy. So now I need to get a handle on things again. I want to keep walking/running. I got new tennis shoes. Firm up my body.

Oh, I think I'm getting ready to share. Not quite yet, but faithful readers know that it is coming. Every struggle that I go through, God brings me through and after some time it is time to share the journey with people. It can be an encouragement or just a moment of hey, Maggie is a real person that struggles, but God helps her. It was a while before I spoke about Abby's death - details about how God brought me through. The time is coming for me to share the reasons I left work. Some of you know, some don't. Medical leave was recommended to me for a reason - and I am glad that I took it. Soon I'll share.

Quick update.

2007-05-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update. Tuesday has passed us by. No change. I called my doctor. He set up an appointment for me with an OB doctor in Grandview - Dr. LaSalle? not sure how to spell it. I see him Thursday at 10:00 am. I have concluded to accept the wisdom that God has given these doctors. I will ask for an ultrasound and then I will proceed with the recommendations. I am anxious for another ultrasound. It will be good to see now that I know what I am looking for. The first one - I could tell the tech knew something and wasn't telling. Now I know what they are checking for.

FYI

2007-05-25T12:15:00.003-07:00

Guys - men - this is pretty girly stuff, but you can read if you like.

Ok, I think that this will be short and to the point. I wanted to give you all a pregnancy update. I have been spotting off and on throughout my pregancy - which can be normal. I had an ultrasound April 24th that showed a baby heartbeat and that everything looked fine. The baby measured 6 wks - we thought I was 8 weeks. I also had bloodwork done to check my pregnancy hormone levels. They were ok. So I continued to spot off and on. Wednesday May 16th I was actually bleeding - I was told to lay down the rest of the day. I stopped bleeding and just had some slight spotting Thursday and Friday. Saturday evening I began to actually bleed again. I bled Sunday and Monday. Monday night they had me go into the emergency room for a pelvic exam. The pelvic exam showed my cervix was closed - I had not had a miscarriage. They did blood work to check my pregnancy hormone levels - they should double every two days. They did not get the results right away. I was sent home and asked to go back Tuesday afternoon for an ultrasound. Tuesday the ultrasound was awkward. The tech was very quiet and not wanting to give much information. She couldn't see very well abdominally so she did a vaginal ultrasound. We saw the baby, but that is all she would say other than asking a bunch of times when I was going to see my doctor again. I had them fax the results to my midwife and also to my regular doctor. My midwife called my Tuesday evening with the results. The baby had no heartbeat. The baby measured 7 wks when I should have been more like 11 wks. They concluded that the baby's heart had stopped beating a few wks ago and stopped growing. I have not miscarried. I was told I could wait a week to see if it happens on its own. By blood test showed the pregnancy hormone was decreaseing instead of increasing. On Tuesday if nothing has happened then I need to call my doctor and he'll set me up with an OB doctor to talk about the D&C procedure. I am really having issues with the idea of having a doctor remove my baby. I know that God is powerful and I know that God's will is always best for me. I pray that his will be evident. If God chooses not to revive the life within me that he would remove it naturally. I know there are risks to not having the baby removed - if it is dead then it can be toxic to my body. I want to wait as long as I can for God to complete the work. Either way that God would complete it. Please keep me in prayer.

Just stuff.

2007-05-15T20:37:00.000-07:00

One book down (creating community) still soooo many to go!. I've also been procrastinating writing my papers to finish off my Berean Course. Maybe I'll devote Thursday afternoon to that! I can't wait until Thursday! Why? I'm planning to go out to eat. Most likely by myself but still. I don't konw why I like to go out to eat so much. It's not even about where I go, just the fact that I eat, get full, and don't really have to lift a finger (well except to operate my fork!) It's so bad that I can be somewhat childish when I am anticipating going out to eat and then I don't get too. Boo Hoo. Well Thursday I'm having a doctor appt. in tricities at 9:30 and then an appointment with my midwife at 11:00. So I have time to kill so I've decided on eating. I'm thinking IHOP, but still thinking. Olive Garden doesn't open until 11:00. My appt. will last an hour and I'm thinking I'll be really hungry if I wait. Anyhow I guess it doesn't take much to please me.

How rich would I have to be to have a paid live in housekeeper/cook? If I could have someone who'd stay on top of the laundry and cooking. That would make things so much nicer. I'm not a great housekeeper. Mostly because it is not high on my priority list. Sure I like it better when my clothes are put away, but not enough that it motivates me to keep on top of my laundry baskets. i wonder if women really long ago (litlle house in the praire) actually enjoyed house work/farming. I think now a days there are many more women like me. Where its not that we are uncapable, we just would rather do other things (blog) than tackle the pile of laundry accompanying us on the bed. Were there just not as many other things to occupy time with? Did they just have a better sense of their responsibilities vs. free time? I don't know. I am very happy that Jorge has not harrassed me about it. Good thing his love language is not acts of service (5 Love Languages) - that's where the person feels loved when people do things for them etc.

What else am I thinking about. Oh, yes. Friend time. Hang out time. (trips to winco at 10:00 at night - avoiding the forklift guy who always seems to be running you over, or times to sit in a park and talk - while you avoid looking at the two teenagers kissing on the other end of the park!) you know just time to be with friends. I don't think that women give themselves enough friend time. Maybe men don't either. I leave my kids for appoitments sometimes (many times they come with me) and meetings at church (also many times they come with). But it almost seems unjustified to ask someone to babysit (assuming dad is working or whatever) just so you can hang out with a friend - for no good reason. But friend time is a good reason, isnt' it. So many women go into stages of depression because they feel lonely or isolated. Even when you are around people. If you are only devoting time to work or family duties or family relationships - then you could suffer from a feeling of isolation - from the world of fun, friends, and leisure. I need, God, my husband, my kids, my extended family - but I also need friends.

Jorgie went to Grizz's Farm (high school ag project) and he went to the Yellow Rose Nursery without me realizing it. You see I knew the field trips were coming. I signed the consent forms - I appreciate consent forms, its not the schools fault I didn't remember they have proof that I knew. But the surprising thing was he never talked to me. Never came home and said "I saw a cow and a pig today" Or "we saw where they have lots of plants and trees." Last week I was thinking about the nursery field trip coming up and then found a paper in his backpack that was reminding me they were going. I couldn't believe he hadn't mentioned it. Then today my kids were late for school - 9:30 (shame on me. i chose to keep sleeping!) and I was thinking I wonder if today is the Farm day. What if Jorge missed the trip and has to sit in the office all morning. Well when he came home I asked if he knew when they were going. He said "we already went." I had this mom moment. Right now in Kindergarten I can't keep up with his schedule what will it be like later. Oh yeah and the worst part - my son had no desire to share these out of ordinary days with me! You would think that he would mention a trip! I find out a week later! I mean what kind of mom will I be in the teen years! Aaaagh. Well I suppose I better ask more questions. Sometimes I do forget to ask how his day went - I shouldn't assume that he'll just tell me if something exciting or horrible happens.

Well that's all. House is on. It's one of my regular shows now. Only one more episode of 24 - two hours next week!

sometimes you've just got to Relax

2007-05-08T23:52:00.000-07:00

Well I had a relaxing day today. I started out not feeling well - again. It seems like I am always not feeling well. This pregnancy is different. I am definately more tired and drained out than any of my other pregnancies. My stomach seems to be quesy a lot. I am completely eating by mood. One week I couldn't get enough bagels and cream cheese and the next week just looking at them grossed me out.

Today was supposed to be my "lesson planning day" for church. I didn't feel like it. I've been feeling like that a lot lately though. I'm just sort of tired of findng/creating activiities and games for us to do. Sometimes/many times I want to just go back to purchasing curriculum. It was nice and easy. The concept is laid out for you and there is an array of activities to choose from. Then I can always expand on it any way I choose. It's more time consuming and thought provoking to have a topic: Loving God with your mind. And have to think about what that means to me. What that means and looks like on a kid level to their understanding and relevance. How to express it in a way that will produce action. And then once I have a grasp on the concept I want to give (the angle) then I need to find things to do. One thing I've read over and over is kids learn more by doing. They retain only 10% of what they hear but 90% of what they do. So the trick is to do something that they'll remember and have that be reinforcing the point. So what they hear goes along with what they do. For those reading from church - I'm not totallly complaining. I understand and support the goal and reason that I am now lesson planning. We want everyone from kid to adult to be on the same page. In kids this past Sunday we learned about "Loving God with your mind" (we are disecting the verse love the lord your God with all your . . . . ), in youth they learned "loving God with your mind" and in adults they learned you guessed it "loving God with your mind". We are trying to provide continuity. There are things that every person needs to know and grasp at any age - to their level. I want families to grow together. I support our plan for this . . . its just a bit more trying - but sometimes more rewarding too. When I have a week that went great - or a kid tells me how they thought and acted on it - its nice to know I thought and meditated on the concept and brought what we felt God was asking us to bring.

Back to today . . . so I didn't feel like it. So I laid on the couch. Then went out to watch or keep Jorge company as he weeded the yard. I tried to help, but right away my tummy was hurting - picky baby -. So I sat in a chair talking to Jorge as he worked. It was a nice and restful time. Then we went out for ice cream (thank you to the boys who were "helping"). Then we went out to see our horse. Its at friends house. I just watched from the window visiting. while Jorge and Holly (mostly Holly) worked with the horse. A very nice day. Now tomorrow . . . well I have to do what I put off today! Hee hee.

Oh - Elia's gettting married! I am so excited and I am so glad its going to be here. I can have so much fun "wedding planning" with her from here. We are looking for big yards for an outdoor wedding - we do have a lead - but if you have a big yard or connections with a great yard, let me know!

to read or not to read

2007-05-03T00:42:00.000-07:00

How is it possible for someone to enjoy writing, but not reading? Aren't the two supposed to go together? communication too. Aren't good speakers, knowledgable, - you know the type that if given a mic they could something and come off somewhat poised and not like a scatterbrain. Arent' reading, writing, communicating all connected? They're all language.

People have always mistaken me for a reader! I am not a reader - in terms of novels or even self help type books. I like to get information in the quickest way possible. So I would say I prefer cliff notes. Give me the whole book boiled down to a couple pages. Sort of like a book report. The highlights, important things to take away from it. I primarily research online. I can find tons of information in conscise articles.

I enjoy writing though, When I was a kid - probably around Cathy's age - I used to write my own "chapter books". They always had a girl named Cassandra in it. Sort of babysitters club/junie b. jones books. Never quite as long as a full book. But I like writing. I still do. Weird that I never took up actual journaling. Hmm.

I like to talk too. (not the extroverted life of the party kind of social talker), but if I need to speak out its good. I think I come off well too. And I can quickly get a grasp on a topic. I do retain a lot of my reading though. Like for kids church. If i'm scanning through activity options. I just need to read it once - usually on tuesdays when i'm planning - I find one I like and I know it. I don't use my "scripts" during class. i remember the directions, what the point of the activity, and am able to expand on it and give my own two cents. Its all language - i'm wondering how they're all really connected. (not really like intellectually wondering - Holly). Just interesting to think about.

I went to see a specialist this week. Lots of "getting to the root of the issue" kind of talk. She made a comment about reading notes my other doctors wrote saying "each of them wrote that you come very knowledgable and prepared. you do your research and you know what you are talking about." she called me wise (woo hoo) (of course she just wants me to come back again! - if you saw the $ rate summary they had me sign of what they are charging insurance - wow. now that's good money) But then she proceeded to say, "you must be quite the reader. let me give you a book to read over the next month." Aaaaagh. Do I come off as a reader to everyone??? I am not a reader! I currently have 7 books that I am supposed to be reading! I can't even say that I don't have time, but its just not really on the top of my list. How does a non reader become a reader?? Not that I can't read. I read very well. I just can't keep up with my circle of "readers" and others who are outside my "circle" but give me books! and not to mention that fact that parents are supposed to focus on reading! Aaagh.

Happenings and thoughts.

2007-04-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

Jorge is loving his horse. It is quarter horse/thoroughbred. It's not that young - like a baby. But it has not really been broken. It hasn't been ridden yet either. Jorge has been working with it. He can lead it on a rope, brush it etc. I love seeing him so happy. His face just glows when he's working the horse. Even when he is just talking about the horse. He found someone who sells saddles and has picked one out. He is moving out to a friend from church's property that is closer to us. He will be getting the corral ready tomorrow. He is excited. He asked how I felt about the horse. I told him. "I like how excited you are with it. And I like that if you have a hobby it is one that we can all potentially enjoy"

Except for now I am more in my I want a house mode. When the horse is ready to ride it would be nice for it to be just right here with us. The dots are just not connecting quite yet for us though. I've looked into two different properties that were for sale. I am looking at cheap - fixer uppers. They would yield cheap monthly payments. And I'd get to have new stuff - you know paint, carpet, etc. I'd have the new house feel but with an older home. There was one that looked promising - needed some fixing but nothing Jorge couldn't handle. But two days after I came across it - it sold. It was in forclosure. I came across another house. In case you wonder how we "come across" - we just drive around. We want a house in the country for the horse so we drive around following for sale signs. This house really needs fixing - i mean it needs new drywall and ceilings, carpet, bathrooms. larger house, larger property - but there is a canal that runs right through the property. So the part that would be the yard for us is ok, but the area that would be for the horse has a canal right through it - you can't just freely ride around. I don't like that. But as people have told me "there'll be another".

Just to share I am having some reservations about our summer missions trip. See it all started with our family vacation. Then since we were going down anyway it'd be fun to be with the church group and go down early. Now Jorge's mom is supposedly coming up for 2 months -may and june. We're supposed to go down and visit his parents - and now we're going to be seeing his mom already. Well true his dad isnt coming. Then I was reading this thing that abe gave us that said "reasons to go on a missions trip. and reasons not to go" I'm not sure if I was connecting more with the to go or not to go side. I know that it will be a great experience regardless. But a little part of me is like. Let's just visit "mom" here and save our money. lay some grass and landscape our yard (finally) or save for a van for the baby or save for a house (someday). I don't know. It always seems like there is so much we want to do with our money and it all can't get done. But Cathy and I already have our plane tickets. We still need the boys tickets.

Jorge started a new shift at work weekends. Sat, Sun, Mon starting at 3:30 pm. He is loving it. I am glad that he his happy to go to work again. Cathy is looking so mature lately. She is really growing in so many areas. Jorgie is still my little handful. Jeremiah is cute as ever even when he gets mad (which he's been doing more lately). I have been gaining weight already. Surprising really since the baby is so small. But it is a good thing.

everybody say "KNOW the need, ASK for help, TRUST God for the rest.

2007-04-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

Know the need, ask for help, trust God for the rest. Today we were talking about Power for Change: people and circumstances. We talked about 2 Kings 4 where there first was a woman whose husband had died, creditors came and wanted to take her sons as slaves. She went to Elisha and asked for help. He gave her directions to collect jars and fill them with oil (she only had a little oil to begin with) and then once filled she had to go out and sell them to pay the debt. Story 2 was a woman's son had just died. She went off to find Elisha and then Elisha went to the house locked himself in the room with the boy. Elisha prayed and prayed - laid down on the boy, prayed and paced, laid down on the boy again, the boy sneezes 7 times (i imagine right on Elisha's face since they were laying face to face) and the boy is raised up.

So I was teaching that these women - knew their need, they knew what part of their life needed change. Then they found out who to ask for help. Then finally they had to trust God for the rest. I wonder if the woman was a natural saleswoman - or if she was kind of timid to go around saying "i'm selling oil. you want to buy some". She trusted that she listed to God and he would come through. I can imagine the other woman pacing, maybe praying, maybe crying outside the door. Just waiting, trusting that God would come through. Probably thinking "i want to DO something".

So the kids and i repeated that over and over :know the need, ask for help, trust God for the rest. I think the last part is the hardest. It just is. We want a change in our lives. Are we willing to follow the directions whatever they are? Are we willing to wait and trust God is working it out? Aaaaaagh! I'm back in my "I want a house mode" I go through this every few months. I've identified what I want changed. I do want a home of my own. I do want to enjoy that. It is not the time yet. I need to put my money where my mouth and heart is. I haven't made that a priority. (i haven't really done my part like these women did). And trusting God's timing is hard. I feel like the woman outside the door. Not knowing what's going on the other side but knowing that it is good. Jorge just made a deal to trade his car for a horse. I have wanted a horse my whole life. I always said, that I would have a horse, some pasture, etc. We obviously can't keep it here, but we will keep it at a friends house. I kind of feel like the woman with the boy - when Elisha first prophecied over her saying "next year you will have a son" and she was like "don't tease me, if it's not true". I keep thinking maybe this is the beginning and soon I will have my little horse ranch (in the loosest sense of the word - at the most 2!). So trusting God is the hardest.

Look familiar?

2007-04-10T21:45:00.000-07:00

Take a look at my birthing room! Yep looks a lot like my living room! Well could be my bedroom, living room, or even my parents room. But somewhere in my home I will be delivering my next child! Yes, I have opted to have a midwife that does HOMEBIRTHS!

Yes, I know it sounds like something from Dr. Quinn or Little House on the Praire. With Jeremiah I had a midwife, that delivered in the hospital. I was trying to see the difference between midwives and doctors. At the time my Pastor's Wife (at Prosser church) was learning to be a midwife. I found no difference, since I still delivered at the hospital. Well I was talking with Holly on Friday and she mentioned at water birth. I thought I don't think I could do that, I hate baths. But then she said, "well there's lots of options. Go with a midwife, Mag. Women were not meant to have babies in hospitals." I remember thinking. Yeah, that's what I wanted to experience with Jeremiah. Something different. So I started looking for other midwives. To find out what "options" are out there. I got online and found a birthing center in tri-cities, but they were just names to me.

I decided to call my old Pastor's Wife, Shannon. I thought if anyone knew about midwives it would be her. Turns out she is now a midwife! That was the sealing the deal moment. Someone I knew, and really trusted would deliver my baby. She talked about home births - that is what she does. She talked well about the birthing center, where she actually did all her training, etc. She said some of them do homebirths, center births, and other midwives do hospital births.

I am so excited. Don't freak out. It will be great. I am a perfect candidate. I haven't had birth complications before (except with the twins -Cathy was breach), I've had previous births without pain meds. She will bring everything, a birthing pool (I could have an underwater birth - maybe Holly maybe), tarps, whatever. She can order ultrasounds. It will definately be a different experience. One that I can look forward to. Then when its all done, i can lie down in my own bed and be done. No packing up from the hospital, no waiting for my doctor to come and finally release me. People can come visit after the birth without feeling like their overcrowding - or watching that their kids don't touch all the equipment. Its home.

Fun, fun, fun. So leave me a comment! What do you all think of this idea! Who thinks I'm crazy!!!

My daddy loves me.

2007-04-06T13:25:00.000-07:00

My DADDY loves me! Speaking about my heavenly father. You see I have always taken to heart the verse "Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm. 37:4. It seemed so easy. If you rejoice in God, do what he says, please him then you could have what you want - granted that his desires will become your desires.

Well around December. I began getting the desire to have another baby. You see Jorge and I had been bouncing around the idea for some time. I wanted a baby, he didn't. Then around November he decided that yes, he wanted another baby. Then I had this honry feeling like "now I don't want one. it's got to be my idea." Doesn't that sound so controlling! Well in december I wanted a baby. I wanted a baby enough to take action. So I called my midwife and had my iud removed. I timed things so perfectly so that that if I calculated correctly - which I did - I could get pregant right away. I read online to find out what days I was ovulating. The works. Didn't get pregnant in january. Tried calculating again in Febrauary. Didn't get pregnant.

At this point I was upset. I prayed and I asked God why he gave me the desire for a baby if he wasn't going to give me one. I asked him "are you going to give me a baby or not?" he told me "no. you are not ready" I remember feeling so hurt. Like how can my daddy say no. I am delighting in him. I believe he put the desire within me and Jorge. Then I went to the Lord again, this time asking for more direction. I said, "how am I not ready?" The answer was simple, yet perplexing. He told me, "your health is not ready. you have not honored your body." This was big for me. He was identifying an area of weakness in my life. An area that I had to delight myself in the Lord - where I was not delighting.

So right away, I went to the doctor. I know this must be killing some of you to read that I have issues, but not know what they are. He helped me identify things more. So I began this journey to correct my own behaviors. It has not been easy. I am not done yet. I remember thinking "so how does this all fall into place. I wonder if God is going to wait to give me a baby until I am completely restored. Or is taking action enough." I had no idea.

Well blog world. I am pregnant. Just a few weeks. I have a new sense of urgency for my medical issues. But I also have a calming peace. A peace that God loves me. That he helped me identify an area in my life that could be better. But doesn't wait to bless me until I have it perfected. The act alone of initiating obedience. Choosing to follow his commands is enough to bestow his blessings upon me. I feel very loved.

On a side, not this is going to be the funnest pregnancy yet. Cathy is bubbling over with excitement! He eyes get so big her smile so wide when she says "my mom IS PREGNANT". She put her ear to by belly and began giggling that it sounded squishy like water gurgling. I'm going to have fun with her. Jorgie: bewildered look like - are you serious then asks how do you know, looks at pregnancy test and says "you must be having two since there are two lines". Jeremiah: lays on the bed looking up and says "our own baby" with a big smile.

Are we different? Good.

2007-04-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note.

Holly and I preached on Sunday morning. We did a great job - if I do say so myself. Other people said so too. We had a lot of fun in the process. We had a topic. But then we had to come up with our subpoint - what we wanted to say in regards to that topic. It was fun to see our similarities and differences. We were discussing Elijah and Elisha's relationship and how they were similar and different.

There are a lot of ways that Holly and I are different, but there are also a lot of ways that we are the same. It was interesting to me to watch us preach and how there too, we are different in style. I remember reading a commentary on Elijah and Elisha and reading the big question "who was better suited for his role - as prophet?" At first glance, most people would answer "Elijah" he was the more dominant personality, he performned more dramatic miracles, he dealt with the more powerful figures, etc. But the correct answer is: "They were both suited perfectly for the different roles God gave them." God has created us each perfectly for unique roles in his service. Ultimately we are to be like Christ. We are to learn from people, and take on the qualities of Christ that they display - but we don't have to be a "mini me" (austin powers). God made us uique for a reason.

I am glad that we had this chance to investigate the differences and similarities and how God used them both tremendously AND how God specifically chose them to work together for so long.

Cousin Camp started yesterday. It sounds like a lot of fun. I'm going to go and send them all some "Camper Mail" just like summer camp. We're taking this serious you know!

Throwing off my Groove!

2007-03-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

Conference week began this week. Kids get half days everyday (except Monday). Well there goes my new found groove (schedule). Today was my one of "workdays", well I slept longer than I should have and then i had to go to conferences and doctor appointment later. All my kids are home, wanting to eat lunch even though they should have had lunch at school. Not wanting me to be "working". Arrgh. Tomorrow I should stay up after the kids leave to give me some time to work before they come home. Next week might be intersting with them all at "cousin camp" until Wednesday! Jorge has made some plans for Monday. But Tuesday and Wednesday should be pretty quiet. Hmmm. Shopping???

The Lord kept waking me up last night. Holly and I are "tag team preaching" on Sunday (this was decided on Sunday). We are having fun with the idea. She came over last night and we were talking about our initial reactions to the idea. It was fun to know we were thinking much the same thoughts. We are to talk about Elijah and Elisha and their mentoring relationship. We decided this is very ideal for where we are right now in our relationship. Specificaly we are to talk about "passing the baton". Where Elijah goes off to heaven and Elisha is left to continue the work. Ironically, I feel like we have been fumbling with the baton. We have been finding ourselves having different issues with our new roles and defining appropriate parameters to suit chain of commmand, but also the freedom for the roles given to us. Anyhow, so we get to research this and become better examples of this (passing the baton) in the process. We have walked together for a number of years now - so we are kind of like Elijah and Elisha in some ways - which is why we were chosen for this topic.

Anyhow, I was trying to sleep and the lord would bring to mind something on topic and an experience Holly and I shared relating. So I'd get up and write it down. Then I'd go back to sleep, just to be waken up again, and again, and again. I'm not sure how it's all going to come together and if God intends for me to use each thing or was just bringing to mind possibilities. So I slept longer than I'd been, but it was ok, because I already have somethings down. Also a nice side note, on the kids side - we did a lesson on Elijah and Elisha last september. I think a lot of the stuff can be used again and the kids will still have fun. So it makes my planning a bit easier, too.

Tomorrow is Play Day

2007-03-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is "Play day". That's what my schedule says. I wonder what we are going to do?? If it's nice - for me that means, sunny and not a bit of a breeze - we could go for a walk to the park. We could even take Heidi with us. She would love a walk. IF IT'S REALLY NICE - you know I'm not an outdoor person. You'd think that I'd have tons of activities up my sleeves. Maybe I'll pull out socks for a good old sock war! I still love those. Jeremiah does too. He get's all into them.

Hey any of you other than Jeannie - do meal planning? Do you just plan dinners or do you plan all day? I need to work on that. But does your WHOLE life have to be scheduled? That's my resistance to the whole idea. My stubbornness. I already have daily to do lists (somedays I even write times), evening schedules, NOW meals on a schedule? I read that people can see your priorities by looking at your schedule. So I suppose if eating is important it should be a schedule event! Ha ha ha.

Ok you creative folks. I have a friend who is getting married - younger than me. They are having her "bridal shower" next weekend. It's a "night at the movies" theme. We're supposed to write down a favorite quote from a movie and tell her how it can help her in her new role as a wife. That's easy. I already know the quote I'll use. But under gift ideas it had: movie snacks, comfortable viewing clothes and anything that has to do with watching a good movie at home in the arms of her new lead man (be creative)." So since they wrote to be creative - I feel a gift basket of snacks is not suffcient. It's got to be something great. Something that will cause laughter. Any great ideas??

How's it going Mag.

2007-03-20T14:50:00.000-07:00

So how's it going Mag? Many have been asking me that since leaving work at school.

I've been reading a book called "the Family Friendly Church". It is all about moving from a "church-centered, home-supported ministry model TO a home-centered, church-supported ministry model." It describes this Pastor's journey. The book begins by describing his home life. He was ministry centered. All about his church work, family was secondary - they could wait. He began feeling the strain in his relationship with his wife. She began to mention her struggles and the need for a change. How would this sense of balance come? What would cause the sense of urgency that he needed so that he would reprioritize his life? He shared his struggles with another Associate. They were trying to research "Family Ministry" and get a better handle on this ministry model shift. What happened?

He was granted a Sabbatical. A what? A paid leave from his church duties. Three months to rest, rejuvenate, and research Family Ministry. They outlined his duties. The type of research he was to accomplish. He was to travel and meet others who were accomplishing what they wanted. He would return after 3 months with 6 solid contacts, present his findings and a prospective plan of action. There was a big list. But much of this could be done within his home. Travel could include his family. These three months were going to save his family. He began spending more time at home. Scheduling his "work" time. Scheduling his family time. Not just being around, but being THERE, rebuilding the much needed relationships. He quickly began to discover that in order to lead a church into a family focused minstry model - he first needed to focus on stregnthening his own family. I'm not done with the book yet.

Anyhow, this kind of what I feel the Lord has granted me. Time. I was feeling my life very unbalanced. I had already decided that I wasn't returning to work next school year. So this year was spent, just waiting for next year. Everything would be better, I just knew it. So many things to do - develope sunday lessons, figure out what family based ministry meant, events, family focused events, Berean courses, mentor team members, build relationships with kids, school, my husband, my kids, work on homework with them, house cleaning, roundtables. It just seemed that I would never be excellent in anything. But I kept going. I don't consider myself "burntout". I just had this constant feeling that if I did something it was at the expense of something else. Sort of like life before being on a budget - if you splurge and buy something new, its at the expense of one of your bills.

So I was determined to stick it out for the rest of the year. That's was responsible people do right? Finish their commitments. I became aware that I was not taking care of my body the way I should have. I decided to go see a doctor. (I don't go to doctors). He told me he could help me, but I had to get to the root of the issue. The why? He asked if I lived a stressed life. Or unbalanced. I said, "i guess so." I told him I couldn't really set the blame on any one aspect, just the whole unbalanced life. He asked me to share. So I rattled off the list above. He had his back to me and turned quickly. He said, "you will never beat this thing, living life the way you are. As long as your mind is stressed, unbalanced, feeling like you can't ever finsish . . . your body will never be restored. Its starts with renewing your mind." Now my doctor is a christian doctor. He always prays for me. When he mentioned "renewing your mind" I immediately thought of the the verse in the Bible. I was waiting for him to tell me to quit working at the church. I didn't envision myself agreeing to that. But he said the opposite. He said, "consider taking time off of school" I told him that I was already planning to do that next year. He asked why am I there now? My response was, "I told them I would. I make the commitment for the year" He said, "there are a lot of other things you could have said: money, I love my work there I can't live without it. Really consider taking a leave for the rest of the year. 30 hours a week, on what I am guessing is not the highest on your priority list. Is it really worth it? There comes a time when you have to take care of you. Honor your body, renew your mind. Getting a sense of balance will help you beat this."

I pondered. And pondered. I shared with my teacher the possiblity. Just to see if she'd freak out. I read my book. It seemed that time was what he needed. Time to get things in perspective. I asked Jorge. He said, "God is giving you the gift of time. A medical leave, would give you time and you'd still get paid through your contract (a reduced amount). Nobody can look down on you for leaving on medical terms. If the doctor is recommending, its' ok." I was on my way to an appointment in tri-cities. I got there on time. But the wrong day! I felt so dumb. You see I don't do those things. I have always been able to mentally keep my schedule. It was so out of character. I said, "that's it - I really can't even keep my mind on track. tomorrow I have an appointment with my doctor. i'm going to discuss leave with him." Now I know many of people have missed appointments. But it was a big deal for me.

So here I am. Just about one week out. I feel good, at peace. I made a weekday schedule for myself. Monday - unscheduled day to spend with Jorge (he's off mondays - he is thrilled he made the list), Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday - schduled work days (i make a list of things i need to accomplish and write me a timeline) Friday - playday and houskeeping (a time during the day to just play with the boys - maybe even go outside!). The evenings are no longer work time. My family is happy. I have cooked almost everyday. Also, througout the days, there are Jeremiah breaks for hide n seek games and puzzles, and Jorgie reading and piano practice breaks. But you get the picture. So it is great!

My favorite part.

2007-03-18T00:31:00.000-07:00

We're back. I have to write this down while I am thinking of it. I will post more pictures and a video later - when I finish making it.

Like I said before my favorite part is worship. I saw so many of our kids have such a heart to worship God. Some of our young ones, our older ones and even some of the boys. And I'm not even talking about when as a leader you try to motivate kids to worship "come on guys, let's worship or it's time to worship" or even when the praise team says something like "clap with me or let's lift our hands to Jesus". No I'm talking about kids engaging in worship on their own accord. I was thinking about the different times I've been with the kids and I think this time was the time I most saw them freely engaging in worship.

I began to think about how they are each growing in their walk with the Lord. It hit me on the way home. When I had the highlight of my NItro experience. I had Nicki and Cathy in the front with me. We weren't even talking about worship. Cathy just brought up "you know the song - I give you my heart - when I sing that song it makes me want to cry. Especially when I have my hands up to God. I don't know why, but it does." Nicki agreed that she experienced the same thing. I told them it was because when they are worshiping their hearts are close to God. Their hearts are connecting with God. Especially when they lift their hands reaching out to God and when they close their eyes, they aren't distracted by anything else. That's when they are one on one with God - their hearts are so close to God during that time that it causes emotion. It's ok to cry during worship, they are tears of love between God and you. Then they said it, (I pray they will always remember this) they both said, "yeah, that was my favorite part of Nitro. When I felt like that."

It was awesome to hear from their own mouth - student initiated talk on worship and how wonderful it feels to them. Their favorite part, better than the games, inflatables, pizza, hotel, funny speaker - feeling connected with God. I thought - man I've always believed it. If only others would catch on the old saying "kids are the church of tomorrow" is SO WRONG! They are the church of today. They are connecting with God. If we as parents and leaders continue to partner together and nurture these kids faith now, help it grow more than it already is. Just imagine where their walk with the Lord will be when they are youth and adults. It starts now. Awesome!

I just had to write this.

the Beginning

2007-03-16T16:17:00.000-07:00

We have arrived! At the hotel at least. Off to a great start. We ate at Burger King for lunch. The "Big girls" are settling into their HUGE suite! The boys have a suite too. Us lovely "little" ladies are split in two "standard" rooms. Nice and comfy.

We just came back at from our first session. It ended around 9:30. We went to safeway for some fruit, etc. Jorge and the boys went in, and the rest of us waited in our cars. I listened to the radio and drained the battery. Well, we got it charged so we are fine. We are having a good time. I still want to cry everytime I see kids worship God. Here's a video (a little blurry - Jorge is getting used to the camera) and a couple pictures. More to come.

Do you ever go BIG? You need to!

2007-03-16T00:16:00.000-07:00

Nitro 3 - Zero Gravity starts tomorrow!! Well today - if we want to look at the clock right now! I am excited. I enjoy all the kids, the chaos, the music. All the kids jumping up and down to the music. I love seeing kids worship. I love worshiping with kids. It's going to be great.

In the past year as a church we have been exploring different levels of our walks with God or our discipleship. I forget the actual wording. The personal level - your own devotions, prayer time, etc. The large group (probably wrong wording) - sunday services, fellowship, etc. And the corporate (wrong word again - apparently I haven't paid enough attention) - the mega conferences, BIG group stuff. Our Pastor has encouraged that each person attend at LEAST one BIG event each year. There's just something about - a room full of thousands of people, all for the same purpose, same age group or people type (men, women, kids, youth), or could be genera conference of families. But in any event, those times are priceless- to me anyways. Feeling connected with people you don't have a personal connection with. As a kid knowing that there are christians outside of your church walls and community. You are a part of something much bigger. I love the big experiences. I think that even for people who go to mega churches every week - they still need a time of mass community with others. The way you are connected by the Spirit with essentially strangers - its awesome. NITRO is our big event for kids. This is the first year where they actually had to close registration because they have so many registered!

Not avoiding.

2007-03-13T23:39:00.000-07:00

Here I am still on this planet. I have been slipping a lot with this blog - wondering is it going to stay alive! Up until this point, I have really enjoyed blogging. I sort of have a bit of a writer in me. I've always liked to write. Getting my thoughts on paper - there's just something about it. But lately I've been dealing with things that I want to write about - but yet, some things should be private. So it's sort of just hit me lately that I have an audience when I write. I don't know why I never thougth of it before. I guess I never had anything really "juicy" to write about. Or anything that would make me feel extra vulnerable. So I've been avoiding the blog.

I don't want to avoid the blog, because I do like it. It makes me feel somewhat connected to people - even if everyone doesn't always comment. I don't always comment on people's blogs, but I feel connected and informed on their lives. I'm taking some time off work (maybe forever - most likely forever). A number of things led up to this (which I don't want to discuss), but yes the decision has been made. There comes a time where you have to make decisions - to take care of you. This is one of those times. I am looking forward to a new daily schedule. To feeling like a good mom and wife. I work off lists, so that will help me not waste away my days - I still have to get kids off to school so I won't be sleeping until noon. I already have a list for tomorrow, which I thought "there's no way I'll get that all done so I better start tonight". Hee Hee. Blogging wasn't on it, but I did get to do one thing and check it off early. I am happy for peace.

It's good.

2007-03-06T23:38:00.000-08:00

Parental Guidance Required Roundtable was awesome! I am excited. My biggest fear was that people would not want to talk. I am glad that there was disusssion. People seem to be open and honest. A great start. I like the dynamics of the group. It will be fun to walk with them. It just started and I think that I can already see it will not be fun to just stop meeting when the 6 wks are over. At least that's how I felt. I really needed this comradery right now. It will be good!

What do you do?

2007-03-04T01:36:00.000-08:00

What to read, what to read. I thought I was better, but I wasn't. I was in bed all day Friday except for my doctor's appointment and got up for Deb's parents anniversary dinner. Saturday, had some lab work done went to Winco with my mom and came back home and went to bed. Stayed in bed asleep untill the night. Now I am not so tired, but obviously everyone else is sleeping. So I look at blogs and read. Then, I read some online studies on Elijah (we're working through Elijah this month at church). Those were good to read. Then, turn off computer because really I should be in bed. Can't sleep still. So I surf amazon for a book I've wanted to read. The whole amazon world is amazing to me. How do these people get these products that they can sell them new at a a much lower price? Ordered some CD's earlier for like 6-8 bucks brand NEW. I did buy my book used because I thought that's ok. My mom bought a video for like a dollar! Interesting. Anyhow, there's a book we're supposed to be reading for our church leadership team - but I just don't feel like reading that book! I should do my Berean studies, too.

I'd watch TV, but who wants to say they were up until 2:00 am watching TV. That just sounds like such a TV addict. Instead if I were actually reading until 2 AM I might look somewhat intellectual! Hee hee. But I'm online so I'll just be an online addict. My mom was reading blogs today and she has concluded that the internet takes up too much time. She reads and then she has to tend to something. No wonder we're always on the computer, she says. Ok so here's something to do. If you're a reader - for a week log how much time you spend reading. If you're a tv person - log your tv time for a week. If you're a computer person - log your computer use for a week. It should be interesting. Maybe we can get a person in all three categories and see which takes up the most time. Or maybe it's an even thing. I think it'll even out. Whatever you like that's what you're going to spend your time on - even if you are givng it too much time. TV may come out less since it's harder to do out of the house. Hmm. Any takers?

The last 3 days.

2007-02-28T23:30:00.000-08:00

I've been sick. Monday I was off work for my laser "surgery". I don't even know why they call that surgery. It's just like shining a flashlight on your head, maybe 5 times. After the appointment I was really tired (don't think it was related). So I went straight to bed. I stayed asleep pretty much the rest of the night.

Tuesday I woke up with a sore throat and a headache. I went to work. By 9:30 I was feeling like "I've got to go home. There's no way I'm staying all day" I left. Went home and went straight to bed. I was tired! I woke up about 3:00 only because I could't sleep from about 2:00 on thinking "I have to pick up the kids, George doesn't even know I'm home". Then I decided I could call the school and have Cathy go to the babysitters. So I did. My mom tried to feed me, I didn't feel like eating much. I had a fever at this point. I slept more until 6:00 or so. Holly called - what a life saver! I still had Sunday's lesson plans to write before church on Wed. I asked her to come over and do my lesson plans for me. I am so blessed to have her! Thank you Holly. Yea, she did come over. Later I found out she was supposed to be grading test - even more special for me that she chose to do that! Sometimes when you are sick you feel people generosity more. I suppose we should feel blessed/loved all the time, but when we are sick is when we are "unable" and hence feel weakest. So when help comes along we are thankful.

By 9:00 I still had a fever, so I called in sick for Wed. I had slept all day so I got up about 11:30 and was up for a bit. Went to bed at 1:30. I only slept until 7:30. Being in bed so long made my bones kind of ache. I guess a person CAN sleep too much. So today I haven't felt so bad. A little dragging, but not dead. I did go to school to see the talent show presentations (not the real thing, but the presenting for the teachers so they know what you're doing). I wondered how that would look for me, showing up while on sick leave. I decided who cares how it looks, I'm not missing my daughter. There was only one other parent & grandparent there, hmmm. I'm sure there will be more for the real thing. Cathy and Isabel did a dance routine to "Different Now" by Out of Eden. I like the beats on that song. They did a good job. They still need to figure out the rest of their routine, but I found out they have until Mar. 30! A whole month! Yeah, and they had a meeting like 2 wks ago about the talent show and telling them they needed to have their talent ready to present today! Why all the rush if there's still a whole month. Anyways, I have fun practicing with them. So this will give us more bonding days.

I had fun at church tonight. We made costumes out of paper for each other. Used big butcher paper. They drew designs then I got to try and create them on their bodies! I felt like one of those designer shows! Except paper rips easy. We decided next week that we should do a model runway thing. Bring clothes for them to dress up in. Anyone have some fun outfits? Those of you that don't know and are thinking "no Bible Story". Wednesday nights is a teambuilding night for our church. We have ministry teams that meat to discuss plans, prepare for Sunday, etc. Grown up meetings. We don't run a "kids program" on Wed. It's the kids of people involved in those teams that come. So its a much smaller - mixed age, group. When we started I felt like "these are the leaderships kids - they need time to just have fun - they're at church a lot" So we spend the time having fun, building relationships, exploring. Of course naturally we tie in Jesus. Paper costumes can represent how God makes us beautiful. Or how God gave us creative minds, etc. Anyways, it was fun. Last week we had costumes that represents people in a family - mom, dad, big sister, little brother - and we got to wear them (even I wore little brother clothes - Jorgies) and act out "family skits" for the rest. That was fun too.

Tomorrow I will go to school. At 4:00 I have another laser appt. Hope that's not what caused my sick. I'm sure they're unrelated.

What do you remember?

2007-02-25T23:13:00.000-08:00

I'm having laser surgery tomorrow. It's a new treatment (don't know how new, but this derm. just recently got the "new laser"). I was kind of nervous about it - just unsure of what to expect. When I last went for my shots they said they were going to look into it with my insurance. Then they called and said its covered and I could have it done on Monday. I looked online and read success stories, saw some pictures. It doesn't seem to be that big of deal. Then I was watching Extreme Makeover and someone had laser surgery on some acne. It didn't look too bad. I will be very pleased when this all works out. They told me I'd have to have a series of treatments - twice a week for a while, but then the psoriasis usuallly goes into remission for 8 months or more.

I am excited about a Parenting Roundtable starting in March. I am excited about it, because it's not a class on time outs, spanking, grounded, etc. Its all about building relationship. Connections if you will. Influencing our children's relationship with us (parents), their relationship with God, and their relationships with others. I think that it will be good for me as well. I know that I could do a better job of building a better relationship with my kids. When my girls were born my hearts desire was that we would establish good, open, honest communication. I wanted to make sure that my girls could talk to me about anything. Whether it was good or bad. That they would know that mom would love them no matter what. And that I would not immediately just preach to them, but really listen. See past the action and to the root cause - why they acted that way. See past the desire to simply punish, but really connect on a different level. I don't think that I have effectivly done that. I still have that desire. I think that we do have a good start, but we're not there yet. The first session (I was previewing) was touching on the fact that key moments in our lives are based out of our relationships. Events/experiences happen, but it is the relationships involved that stick to us. He was laughing that people always come to counseling saying "i have this problem and i think i know how it all started - it all started with the way my dad or my mom always . . ." nobody ever says "i have this problem and i think i know how it started. it all started the day i got a used car. or the day i went to public school. or the day i didn't get on the team" those things can be big, but it is really the relationships involved in those situations that mattered. he also made me laugh when he said, "no one ever says - i remember when my life really turned around. i was on the wrong path and i really made a turn around when i was on phone deprivation for two weeks. that's what really changed my life. those two weeks without a phone". How true. Anyhow. Tuesdays nights at 7:00 pm. You're all welcome - whether you have little kids, big kids, teenagers, college, adults, or no kids (what a great start you'll have).

Truth and Grease

2007-02-21T10:23:00.000-08:00

Time for a new post. We did our income taxes last night. I've been pondering money and money management. From when Jorge and I got married to now - we made QUITE a bit more than when we started out. Yet, we haven't managed to get ahead (unless you count - eating out more and cooking less :)) I'm not really complaining. The Lord has blessed us. I'm not really worried. Right now we are in the process of taking care of OLD debts. A mess we got ourselves into when we were young poor newlyweds. So I know that once that is done, we will be in a good place. Financial Peace has helped us a lot. Except for when we stray from the plan. Hence the fact we are still in debt, when we should have been done by the start of this school year. I was working on my lesson for Sunday. There was an illustration I read where you had a football with grease all over it. It's now too slippery to hold onto. That is like "truths" or our relationship with God. We have a desire to hold onto it, to live it, but we let it get all greased up. We let things get in our way - when speaking money - wanting to blow more that we have. Wanting to have what we really can't afford. So we still have these truths in our mind, but they are mixed in with our feelings and desires. That's what makes it hard sometimes and then things slip past you. That's when you do your taxes and you say "wow! so much money, yet I can't afford my dreams" When in fact, if we would wipe off the grease - strip down to the facts, the truths that we know will work, we could have it all. I thank the Lord for continueing to bless us even though we are not always wise stewards. I am not a millionaire yet, because I have not been so faithful in the little - so how could He trust me with much? We have put a plan together for our income taxes, pay debt, fix truck, mexico trip installment, oh yea more debt. Hope you all have fun and hold onto the truths that God has spoken to you.

Valentine's Day

2007-02-13T16:51:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is tomorrow. I don't like teddy bears, don't like candies, not even flowers. That is the tradition for people right? So thoughtful for someone to give right - they thought of you. But serously, are you supposed to keep them forever? What are you supposed to do with a giant teddy bear? And candies - they're not really for me. I had a giant teddy bear forever! Finally got the nerve to ask Jorge if I could toss it out. It's the thought that counts right - but these are my thoughts. Now I have to give Jorge credit. See finally after many years of "valentine's gifts" I finally told him. I'd really rather not have them (because I feel bad getting rid of them). I like to go out to eat - but why does it have to be on the 14th. I'd like to go out any day. I don't know. I think Valentine's day is more of a juvenile "dating person" holiday. Junior High and High School people get mad when they don't get a teddy bear (that their boyfriend is too broke to buy, since he doesn't have a job). So many years we go out to eat sometime around valentines day - don't know about this year. Tomorrow's church - so we'll still go. I just don't really get the holiday. And am I supposed to get my kids a valentine's gift? Huh! Are they really going to cherish that forever? Or is it just bragging rights - because no one else in their class got flowers delivered to them. So is that really right? To get your kid a gift to make other kids feel bad! I'm having to stop and buy valentines for the kids in my class - just because I feel like I'm supposed to (the other two teachers in our class are) how would I look - like an unloving person!

So what about you? Is it a top holiday in your book? Will you be outraged if you don't get a valentine's gift?

Running in circles.

2007-02-09T21:09:00.001-08:00

This was always fun as a kid. My grandma used to play with us. She'd sit on the couch and try to catch us as we ran by. Very entertaining, if you can handle all the crashes and bumps. Be prepared for a tumble, but the laughter outweighs the falls - in my book. But maybe it's just a childhood memory that I love.

Stuff.

2007-02-09T13:30:00.000-08:00

My car should be ready next week. We decided to keep our car and fix it. The insurace paid us the value of our car. We paid the salvage fee (235) to keep our car. Jorge is able to fix it for cheaper than they would have and it left us some money. I at first wanted a new vehicle. That would have been nice, but with what our car was worth . . . Well we have refurnished our emergency fund. That feels very good. We paid off some debt. We will pay off more with our income taxes (since we are not using that for a vehicle). It feels very good. I will have my car and be better off financially. Its turning out to be a good thing.

Jorge and I have decided that we want to have another baby. Sorry for all of you who have to hear about this on the blog. I like to hear first hand, but it's not like I'm anouncing I'm pregnant or anything. We have gone off birth control and are ready for God to decide when He chooses to bless us. We know obviously that this means eventually we'll have to get a van or something, but we will cross that bridge when it comes. We can always sell my car or Jorge's car, his truck (not running, but someone could wnat to fix it) and we have some time to save up for one.

I am heading to Mexico this Summer. Cathy and I will be gone almost a month total! Wow. Talk about replace yourself. First I will be going on the church mission trip this will overlap a day or two with our scheduled family vacation. Jorge and the boys will meet us over there. Won't he have fun flying with the boys! In the mean time, we're going to start getting our passports. I am expecting a great summer. Then we'll come home and it will be August - Kids Camp! Woo Hoo. School will settle in and work --oops, NO WORK. WOO HOO. The anticipation is almost too much to handle.

We bought the movie Flicka. It's horse movie. You know the girl who finds the wild mustang and tames it. I liked it. I liked the whole "your daughter is just like you and you don't even see it" part. It reminded me of how a lot of the times we clash with our kids, but its the fact that sometimes we're really just the same. Her stubbornness and my stubbornness. Her insecurities and my insecurities. Her frustration with no knowing the answer, my frustrations. How often our kids mirror us is amazing. God designed man in his image. He the father and we the children. And our children seemed to be designed the same way - reflecting us. I also liked the movie setting. A horse ranch - like 5000 acres. I imagined life like that. All secluded. Going on a riding date with my husband. Just talking and riding. I think that at times I would like it. Maybe Jorge and I should buy a ranch. Probably not that big, but you know. I think my kids would absolutely love that kind of life.

My head

2007-02-05T21:11:00.000-08:00

I have psoriasis. It is a skin condition that is hereditary. I started breaking out with it 5-6 years ago (since Abby was in treatment). I found out that it can be triggered by stress. Since being diagnosed with that I've had several different treatments. I was on a steroid for almost 2 years (even though using steriods for long periods of time isn't good) - I never got big muscles though. It worked for a long time. My psoriasis is on my scalp, just a portion behind my right ear. The medication was somewhat like mousse. It was a foam that I'd rub into my hair. I'd use it and then it would go away for a few weeks. It'd come back and I'd use it again.

Well that stopped working and I've been back in the try everything mode. In the past year I've started getting injections - shots into my scalp. I remember the first time I had this done it was 45 pokes. They aren't painful to me just a bit uncomfortable. So I went once a month for injections then it was all cleared up. So they said I could be off the injections for a while. But it came back pretty soon after being off. So I went back today for more injections. However all meds have a side effect. This one has been making my head have like dents in it. She dilueted the dose to minimize it. I'm not sure that this dilueted dose will cut it. She mentioned a new laser treatment that is very successful with stubborn cases. She is checking into it all with my insurance. She says it usually make people go into a long remission. Remission . . . that word brings back so many memories. They said I look like a good candidate since they've tried several other things already. I'm ready for this to be done with. They say its hereditary and cannot be cured just controlled. I think if stress can trigger it can unstressing make it go away?

Now I have a lump behind my ear. I thought it was related, but its not. Apparently it may be a cyst. A small one. I'll have to read up on that (i've read about everything on psoriasis). They said I could have it removed, because sometimes they grow large and bulge out. Or I could wait it out because sometimes they just go away.

Yeah, I'm sure this was a pretty boring post for you all to read, but its what I'm thinking about right now. i'll write something more exciting or thought provoking later.

I want to go to Mexico

2007-01-28T23:42:00.000-08:00

I want to go to Mexico. Our church is planning a mission trip to Guadalajara, Mexico this summer. We need 10 people to sign up by Sunday, Feb. 4th with $150 deposit. (the trip is about 1200. I plan to be one of those people, Cathy as well.

These are the reasons that I want to go to Mexico. I want to experience another way of life. I want to see kids in a different light. Just because I am going doesn't mean that we have to do a VBS. I would love to experience other things. Feeding the hungry. Going to an orphanage and holding babies. Going into a neighborhood and playing with kids. Just hanging out and giving them a new kind of friendship. I want to interview people and ask them what their struggles are. I want to pray with kids in a whole new way. (not just Cathy's usual request of "I want to pray that I can eat hot cheetos again". That is totally valid for Cathy because that is her personal struggle. But what about kids who have no family, nothing. I am sure there are some around here I just haven't gone out to meet them. Maybe I should seek that out.

I preached today on ministering to our families. Not expecting our churches to have it all and teach our kids all the spiritual things they need to know, but to take that responsibility on ourselves. I want to meet families. I want to meet parents in Mexico who strive to follow the Lord despite not having all the things we have - wonderful churches with great classes for parents and kids, great schools with awesome teachers (and the WASL), internet (wireless only please), cable or satelite TV (premium package), MAC (only the best for us), etc. You get the picture. I want to talk to the parents who are taking the responsibility to raise Godly kids, just because nobody else is going to try and do it for them. I want to see the way they take the authority God has given them and despite not having the premium church - seeking God's will for their family and teaching their kids to do the same. I want to step away from the thought that if I had nothing I could do nothing. But to hands on, personally, see the way other cultures embrace the Lord.

I don't even know how "poor" this part of Mexico is but this is why I would love to go to Mexico. Please pray for me, that God would grow the personal desire in my heart for my family to grow deeper in the Lord. That we will realize all the extras God has given us are extras, just for the fun of it - not necessities.

Is it Dinner time?

2007-01-25T12:20:00.000-08:00

What's dinner like at your house? I've been thinking. I'm very thankful for my mom who prepares things for when we get home from school. I think that's how it all began. Mom if you are reading this I am not complaining. It saves me from cooking full blown meals - and that is good for me. I'm just taking a poll.

You see, back at our old home. We'd get home from school around 3:30 and nothing would be prepared obviously. So the kids would have a snack - chips, pudding, cheese and crackers, etc. Something not very filling, but just to hold them over. I'd lounge for a bit. At around 4:00 I'd start THINKING about what we were going to eat. Finally around 5:00 I'd start cooking something. Jorge would get home (he worked at treetop then) and we'd eat around 6:00 or so.

Now our schedule is more like this. We get home around 3:30 and there is sopita ready (hope you know what that is - think mexican ramen, just noodles and broth) or papas and chorizo (fried potatoes with mex. sausage). Well that after school snack is much more filling for my kids - and me. So then I'm not hungry, neither are they, so why cook. Oh yeah, Jorge is coming home. Hmm. So he's either home when we get there or arrives shortly after. We've all eaten. So he has a sandwich or somthing quick. By the time we are all hungry again its around 7:30 or 8:00. That's too late to cook a full meal deal. So we eat cereal, eggs, or hot pockets. Something quick and easy. Or a lot of days after we have our "snack/meal" we go somewhere and end up eating out around 7:00. On the rare occasion that my mom worked and is not home - then it's panic time. Why? Because it's my turn to return the favor to my mom. I have to think quick and get something cooked when she gets home. That's when I actually cook.

So I don't cook much. When I do I want it to be something great. Usually my kids don't want to eat it. They'd rather have sopita, papas and chorizo, or tacos. (they sure have the mexican genes) chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, etc. just don't cut it. Then I lose any joy in cooking when they don't want to eat it. Jorge ate my dad's oatmeal the other day. I never make him oatmeal.

Well that's what was on my mind today. Since I'm getting ready to make a grocery list. I was thinking what am I going to need. Then I thought - what is mom going to need. THANK YOU MOM FOR ALL THAT YOU DO FOR MY FAMILY. I am truly blessed to have you so close. Thanks for showing your love to us by serving us.

School busses are REALLY BIG!

2007-01-22T18:22:00.000-08:00

School busses are really BIG! Especially when one is backing into you! That is what happened to me today. I was on my way to pick up Jorge from the daycare. A school bus stopped to drop someone off. I knew they would stop since I'm always behind them. I stopped quite a ways back. Then the bus started backing up. I didn't move at first because there was a lot of space between us. I thought "she's just backing up a bit" pretty soon it was evident that she had no intention of stopping soon. So I quickly tried to change gears to reverse at the same time I was trying to honk then horn. Too late. CRASH. She backed right into me. I couldn't believe it. Cathy couldn't believe it. The bus driver opened the emergency back door and just had a shocked "I can't believe this - Sorry" face.

I got on the phone - called Jorge - "come get me. a bus just backed into me". I knew that we needed a police report. I also knew that Whitstran was sherriff territory. I had no idea how to call the sheriff. So I called my school and asked the secretary. She told me I needed to call the bus garage. I called them - the bus driver had already called. They were sending their supervisor to the scene and they had called the sherriff. So I got on the phone to my insurance.

A tow truck came immediatly since one of the nearby houses had a towing service. They heard the loud crash and came to help. I thought "yeah you heard the crash and thought $$$" I am thankful for insurance. They gave me a rental car. They'll be sending someone to assess the damage maybe tomorrow. I am wondering what it takes for a car to be totaled.

In any event. I am safe. So is Cathy. I think all the kids on the bus were fine, too. What an excitement for the school bus to back into Mrs. Najeras car.

I gave in.

2007-01-20T21:39:00.000-08:00

I did it. I changed to blogger beta. I've been holding out, not because I think that somethings wrong with the new version of blogger. That stuff doesn't even cross my mind. It was more the fact that when I started there was an option blogger or blogger beta. I chose blogger. Why let me choose and then be trying constantly to get me to switch! If there's a choice then let me make it. If you want me to choose something then don't give me a choice. Just tell me what to do.
So my plan was to just stay blogger until the bitter end. When they finally said, "ok if you want to keep your blog you have to switch now".

Well . . . i've been using my blogger username for my blog, but then I sign in with my google username for other things and I was constantly signing in and out of things. What a hassle.
So I changed to blogger beta. Sorry Elia - you're alone in the "Old Blogger' as it is called. Just change already or don't so we can see how long before the force switch if that ever happens.

Sharing your Faith

2007-01-19T12:17:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had something to say and then the thought slips from your mind. Then it just drives you crazy because you know you had something you wanted to talk about but now its gone.

That's where I am. I can't think of it. Wait it just came to me! Woo hoo.

I found a site that was talking about the different ways that people share their faith. This site was interesting to me. I could see people I knew fit the different categories. It intrigued me, just because I think so many times I think things are black and white. There is a "right way" and when I think of the "how to's (step one, two, three)" to share your faith it seems that way. But looking over the site it was more on how you get to that point with people.

Being a contagious Christian doesn’t mean becoming something weird that you don’t want to be, or trying to be something great that you feel you may never be. It means being yourself and letting God work through the natural abilities and personality He has given you

There were six styles mentioned: confrontational - direct, no small talk, ex: Peter, intellectual - logical, like debate, how do you know?, ex: Paul, testimonial - storyteller, shares personal experiences, ex: blind man was healed and told, interpersonal - friendship oriented, warm personality, ex: Matthew the tax collecter, invitational - hospitable, persuasive, ex: woman at well, serving - patient, humble, provides for needs, ex: Dorcas.

Read the page to find out more in detail about these different styles. It was helpful for me to know - hey my way is the way God made me, it's different than someone elses way, but that's ok.
http://www.gostudents.net/site/c.ejINI5PNKpG/b.374447/k.B316/Finding_Your_Fit.htm

Give me your feedback, what style are you?

Rescuing or not.

2007-01-16T21:43:00.000-08:00

It's time to write another post. I burned my hand getting fries out of the oven today! Boo hoo. I think I might actually have a scar. I wasn't just getting the tray out. I was trying to rescue a burning fry. One who had fallen down to the bottom of the oven. I stuck the spatula through the oven rack and was trying to sweep the fry out. In the process my hand hit the top burner. I always for get about the top. It hurt. I tried once more and then said, "forget it. this ones just going to burn." Maybe I'll get the fry out when the ovens cooled down and it's safe.

How many times are we trying to save ourselves/our kids/our spouse/friends from burning (hot water, trouble, you know what I mean). In the midst of saving their life/crisis we get hurt or in some sort of crisis. Think about it. Sometimes when we're in trouble we deserve to be there. Sometimes we need to take the heat for our own actions. When things settle down, we can get out safely.

Let's look at the flip side. That fry just fell as I was getting all the others out. It didn't deserve the "heat". There are times like that where we/our kids/our spouse/friends get into a pickle and we weren't asking for it. We just find ourselves needing help out.

So here's another question for you to ponder. When do you help people out of trouble/crisis and when do you let them fend for themselves. I think I already have an opinion on this one. I just want to give us something to talk about. Share your experiences with getting out of the fire or letting someone endure it. Anyways. I can show you my burn tomorrow.

Funny, how I thought I had nothing to write about.

Home

2007-01-11T12:12:00.000-08:00

I'm home today. Jorgie threw up this morning at about 5:30 am. That was all I needed to call into work today. He hasn't thrown up since, but I bet if I'd sent him to school he would have thrown up and then I would have looked like one of those moms they talk about that send their kids to school sick. Also the fact that I was up late last night watching 24 helped me choose to keep him home. I almost thought of keeping Cathy home - just for the simple fact that I didn't want to get up and drive her to school! Finally I convinced myself and Cathy that we should make the "wise choice" and take her to school since she had no signs of possible sickness. Gave me a glimpse of next year. I don't know how all you stay at home mom's do it - getting up for the sole reason of getting your kids off to school! Don't know if I'm going to like that kind of sleep interruption!

Why am I always so tired! Now my thought that is was a staying up late thing - right, obvious. But the other day - tuesday I think, I was so tired that I went to sleep at 7:00pm and I didn't get up until 7:00am! I was thinking, "I'm going to be so rested today", but nope. I was still yawning all day. Still wanted to go to bed when I got home. I figure, if I'm going to be tired either way, I might as well stay up and watch 24 :) I did notice that after sleeping so long - I did find it easier to get up. But once the day got underway, no difference. I made myself a list of things to do before I get back on a 24 kick. After this, there are only three more things! Woo hoo.

Deb, I'm still waiting for your comment - on approved or not approved. Cathy is scheduled to spend the night at her friends house tomorrow night. One of the gals at our sleepover was saying that it was her second sleepover ever. I think - this will be Cathy's first - other than with people related to her and of course the church stuff. I always figured, that I'd make my house the place to be. So that friends would always be here and I'd never have to wonder what's going on. It's not necessarily the friends I wonder about. They are nice girls, I just don't know what the home life is really like. And not even really bad stuff, but what if their house is swarming with cockroaches, mice, or SPIDERS! Imagine my daughter in such and environment! Anyhow, Trust in the Lord right. So Deb your comment???

These are the days.

2007-01-06T19:24:00.000-08:00

The sleepover was great "the best sleepover ever". I loved seeing my daughter with her friends. They really do get along very well - no arguing. We did hair, make up, played Life, and Cranium's Family Fun Game, stayed up late, had ice cream, went to OG, mall, and movies - I'm tired. Originally I was going to let them tend to themselves, you know not bug them. Then I said, "you know, there will be a time where Cathy really just wants to be with her friends, right now they still think I'm so cool" and they loved calling me "Maggie" they'd giggle just about everytime. So I decided to play games with them and just get involved with them. I loved it. Cathy lights up. I did leave them alone for a good while, too. They played concert with Cathy's guitar. I was also very proud of my daughter. She was a good example of Christ and she set boundaries. I couldn't hear what song they wanted to sing - but I heard Cathy, very eloquently (not bossy, but kindly) say "we're not going to sing those songs. I have songs on my ipod that we can sing. here I'll pick one." the ipod speakers were out of battery - so they did their best to hear through the headphones. Cathy took the lead singing "not to us" and they played and danced around.

While the girls were here a friend called my mom. They heard all the laughter in the background and asked what was going on. My mom told them Cathy was having a sleepover. He said, "oh, those were the days" reminiscing. I remember thinking - are these the days I will long for when my kids leave home. I will keep that thought in my mind. Cherish these times of fun and provide more opportunities for my kids to come alive.

It's all good.

Approved or not approved?

2007-01-05T07:14:00.000-08:00

Well Cathy is excited. One of her Christmas gifts was nail polish, hair clips, gift cert. to Olive Garden, and gift cert. to Movies. She gets to invite two friends to spend the night and then on Saturday I'll take them to OG and the Movies. She's doing that today. She wastes no time. I told her to wait since both kid friendly movies out there she's already seen. Carmike theatre was out of gift cert. so we had to get it for the one in the mall. Carmike has a new kid movie Happily Never After. some backwards version of a fairytale. but regal (mall) just has Happy Feet and Charlotte's Web. But according to the girls - "we don't care what we watch. we just want to come".

I talked to parents and asked if their daughters could come. Both of them agreed, one was hesitant - but I think that is more a cultural thing (hispanics don't make a habit of spending the night often). She seemed to be comforted by the fact that I work at the school. Yes, I did pull the para pro card. It makes me sound like such a great person. The other parent said yes right away, but she will drop her daughter off later in the evening because they have "something". I wondered if that was just a polite way of saying "i want to see who you are and where my daughter is going to be". It was good to know that parents are still nervous about stuff like me. If it's not a public place I wonder about letting my kids go there.

What makes a person approved? What makes me approved in their eyes if I've never met them. Pretty soon I won't be calling with a Whitstran Elem. caller ID and I won't have the Parapro (the school says I'm ok) card. Of course I can always pull the "Family Life Pastor" card - hee hee. What makes you a credible person for others to allow their kids in your home?

Stuff you've missed.

2006-12-31T14:48:00.000-08:00

So I thought that I was going to write more during Winter Break, but looks like I slept too much. I've finished season 4 of 24. Now I am getting ready for season 5. Season 6 starts on January 14 on tv. I've been getting up to speed. I just get all caught up in it, that I can't shut it off. I really don't think I'm going to like watching one episode a week.

I still haven't posted a picture of Jorge, you'll just have to wait to see him in person. Susan, I guess you'll have to come over sometime:) I went' shopping 3 days in a row! Last wednesday I went with my sister, bought a few things. Then Thursday, Jorge, came home and said, "I'm taking you shopping" I really enjoyed that time. We dropped the kids at his brother's house, it was nice. Then on Friday, my friend, called and said she had some Christmas money to spend. So I went shopping with her. By that time I already knew which stores had good sales. I really am glad. I was so tired of my clothes, just not feeling like wearing them - I know you've been there. I didn't feel like things fit right, it's nice to have new stuff. Wish I could do more shopping.

Holy Spirit Weekend was this Friday and Saturday. It's a weekend that our church does, teaching on the Holy Spirit and a time of seeking the Holy Spirit. We've had two of them and I haven't made it to either. This time Jorge went. I didn't want to leave the kids with my mom-again (after my many days of shopping) and I didn't want to take them. It is a long weekend from 5-9 on friday and 8-4 on Sat. I just couldn't see my kids sitting through it all, and I didn't want to have them in the Nursery by themselves for hours either - that idea just didn't sit well with me. So I stayed home. Jorge had a great time and left feeling energized and newly equipped. (you can ask him more if you want). I went just for a bit on Saturday, mostly because I wanted to give the kids to Jorge when it was over so I could get some work done. I missed the testimony time, I was looking forward to hearing what God had done in people's lives. So if you went - I'd love to hear your testimony.

A new year starts tomorrow. I pray for more discipline. There are so many things I want to and should do, but I just get lazy. Well have a great New Year.

Baldy

2006-12-25T22:41:00.000-08:00

Jorge went bald. He has been wanting to go bald for years. I've never really wanted him too. So he always joke about someday he's going to go bald. Well lately I've just been like - if you want to do it, then do it. Don't just keep talking about it. So tonight we were at Jeannie's house and we were all joking with him about - "just do it already". So he did. Cathy didn't want him to at first, then Jorge talked her into helping him. I don't know. Truth be told, I just want some hair on him. He was prior to this evening letting his hair grow long. I didn' t want that either. What's wrong with a regular haircut. He looks alot like his brother Carlos.

Christmas was great. we got to downsize the kids toys to make room for the new ones. I always like that - getting out the clutter - making the rooms have order. For one day at least. Well, I hope that you all had a wonderful day.

the eagle has landed

2006-12-23T12:40:00.000-08:00

elia has made it home. We picked her up last night. Her flight got to pasco at 11:15. However baggage claim took a while. we got home pretty late, but we still had taquitos for her.

Elia - this is for you.

2006-12-21T22:24:00.000-08:00

And anyone else who'd like to read, hee hee. I decided to post tonight - just to give Elia some new reading material for her journey at the airport. Although, by now she is safely at my cousins home. Yes, we have a cousin in Denver, Sammy. I met him and family when I was there a few years ago - "hey Sammy, how's it going? I hope that you and your family are doing well. I hear that you have several planned mission trips in the next few years. May God continue to bless you with desire to minister to others." That is assuming that Elia clued them in about our blogs!

Well we are all missing you Elia. Any hopes of staying extra long once you get here? I believe that we have finished our Christmas shopping. I am happy with our choices. It has been quite an ordeal - just not wanting to settle for something, but waiting till we find something super at our price.

So Elia, are you wishing that you drove here? Or do you think you'd have run into more trouble on the road? Is the blizzard stuff just around colorado or other states? Would you have run into closed roads?

Jorge has been approved for a two week vacation this summer. They had to turn in all their leave for the upcoming year. He had originally requested time in December, but they didn't give that to him. They offered him July so he took that. We are planning a trip to Mexico. We are hoping to be able to fly. Of course that depends on cost, but it would surly make the time more worthwhile if we did fly. We have never gone to visit Jorge's family and I suppose after - by then 10 years - of marriage it's about time. Jorge is very excited to take the kids to meet all his family. I guess we better brush up on their Spanish - we want to leave a good impression you know :)

Well Elia, I hope to hear from you tomorrow. I let Cathy spend the night in Tri-cities on account that I'd have to pick you up tomorrow. I hope that I finally get to pick you up!!

I'm late.

2006-12-17T23:38:00.000-08:00

Ok, so my apologies. I guess it doesn't seem that long when you are the person posting as when you are the person reading a blog. I was giving Deb a hard time about not posting often and she mentioned that I hadn't posted lately either. I didn't think I had slacked that much, but when I checked my "don't you love change" post had been on longer than Deb's last post by two days. So I had actually slacked more that she. So here I am admitting it to the world. Sorry Deb - i guess I was the guy "looking at the speck in anothers eye and forgetting about the plank in my own eye". Everyone thanks for posting - whenever you do. I still check and enjoy reading it. And yes, Deb you can say "I told you so".

It's Over.

2006-12-17T23:26:00.000-08:00

"the Play" went very well. I am pleased with the way that it all turned out. Kids looked cute and their little imperfections just add style to it all. Thanks to everyone who had a part in it. There are many people who are much more talented in different areas than I am - Abe, Jessika, Deborah, Joddi Jay - all of you.

Give me some ideas for Cathy's christmas present! I have no idea what to get her. She's getting past Barbie and I can't think of much. I can't wait for break. I will be so excited to have many sleep in days.

We've been working on toning down the TV - it's a work in progress. Which is another reason that I'm having a hard time with Christmas stuff. What's is going to replace TV time? Yes, we do have board games on the list - bought several already - but what else do you do? Individually? Cathy's not going to run around with a truck like they boys, what can she do to occupy time. SERIOUSLY give me ideas - those of you who don't watch much TV. Keep in mind that I like to keep my computer available for me.

Well have a great night. My brother in laws are here today and I am thankful for the joy and spoiling they bring to my kids.

"the Play"

2006-12-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

"the Play" tonight SUNDAY 6:00 PM. enough said. reports later,

Don't you love change.

2006-12-12T21:24:00.000-08:00

"We need Christmas" that's what Jeremiah's been saying -meaning we need a christmas tree. So we (me, susie, holly, jorge, justin) - well the guys just moved the big stuff - began the ordeal of rearranging/painting our living room. Susie arranged my bedroom for me too, and I think she just has a nack for that sort of thing. Using our stuff but just setting it up differently. We still have all our zillion pictures they somehow don't look like so many. A big move was putting the piano into the dining area. That freed up a lot of space in the living room. She also placed our big huge old style tv on top of my dad's bookcase (an idea Jorge thought of and I didn't go for, but if Susie said - then it's ok) I teased her about placing our family portraits over the fireplace and placing Abe's higher and centered between elia and mine. Just like always "el nino nino" on a pedestal. Hee hee. I'm pretty happy with it right now - even though as with every move there were some "changes" that had to be made to please "everyone" (read between the lines). I'm still happy though. It looks warmer, like a home, cozy. You'd only appreciate that if you'd been here before. Oh, we haven't found our box of ornaments so we just have lights on the tree for now. It's a start.

Elia will be here in ONE WEEK! I am so excited! HOORAY! She's agreed to babysit for us ALL while we are at a staff meeting too. WHAT A WONDERFUL LOVING SISTER WE HAVE. thanks El. LOVE YA!

Recent stuff

2006-12-08T16:32:00.000-08:00

So here are our boots. Jeremiah's are not there since he is wearing them - asleep. It was actually a pretty nice experience. No major frustrations. Cathy and I found ours at the first store.

I also highlighted my hair. I don't know if you can really tell by the picture. Since I am working on growing my hair out - highlighting was a good move. It changed my hair a little so now I like it again. I was so ready for just chopping it.

We are planning on Jorgie starting piano lessons in January. He seems to be the one who enjoys using the piano. If he can focus enough I think he will do well. He is the one that "plays" the piano without making it be just a bunch of noise. He has his own melody. Does that make any sense? I know once he starts Cathy will want to as well. We'll have to see about that. She has a guitar - so maybe I should find her guitar lessons. Then Jeremiah could learn drums and we could have our own band - Yes like the Babcocks.

Oh, which reminds me. This Sunday night at 6:00pm there will be a spaghetti feed and concert featuring the Babcock family to benefit Jessika's trip to Mexico - you should come. It is sure to be a great night - Pastor Jon gave us a little preview of some of their songs a variety from "spiritual" to just plain fun - like "Jeremiah was a bullfrog".

Hey, Laras - should we try to do another Christmas recording for the parents? Last years didn't come out to well, but now the church has a new sound system. Will that make us sound any better?? Hee Hee.

Have a good night.

Compassion and Pity

2006-12-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

Compassion.... this is our virtue for December - Caring enough to do something about someone else's need (def. by 252basics curr.). Are compassion and pity the same thing? I always thought of pity as a negative or ill feeling towards someone, but compassion as a thoughtful act. I didn't want the kids to associate compassion with looking down on people - thinking that others are pitiful, etc. So I looked up compassion in the dictionary (online of course) and found that pity was part of the definition. I looked up pity and its definition included compassion. So its got me thinking are they just synonyms? I'm beginning to draw my own conclusion as I write, but I'd like to hear your conclusions.

Winter is here.

2006-11-27T17:56:00.000-08:00

Ok. So grown up snow boots. Where can I find some stylish. not too grungy, bulky - but warm and good for ice. I don't usually even get snow attire. I just grumble and complain all winter in my shoes. But this year, I have way more recess than before and I felt like I had no shoes and I was just walking on the snow. I want something that looks, sleek. Good. Can go with a casual shirt or a more dressed up look. Am I just dreaming that such a warm boot exists?

Anyways give me some tips on how you all stay warm for the winter without looking like a blown up bulky thing. I don't really like sweatshirts either - too bulky. I like some sweaters, but some of them are just too fuzzy. Winter clothes are so hard for me. Help.

For now I just drink Starbucks to stay extra warm. I even got my dad a Hot Caramel Machiatto and he really enjoyed it. I guess starbucks beats his usually instant blend. You know the kind of coffee that you ad a teaspoon of instant coffee to a cup of hot water. He liked the starbucks version better.

Thanksgiving Begins

2006-11-23T09:01:00.000-08:00

Happy thanksgiving! I think we should all head to New York next year! I think it would be so fun to check out the Macy's parade festivities. Something totally different!

I'm excited to take a little thanksgiving video so I can make a movie. But I just realized that I guess I'm not so video inclined - I should have gotten some shots of Cathy helping me prepare the ham. Oh well.

Yep, New York. I've been having this feeling like I want to see places. New York is a big one. The big apple. During Thanksgiving or New Year's would be so cool. Maybe chaotic for us small town folks, but that's the fun of it all.

Starbucks

2006-11-21T22:56:00.000-08:00

Ok, the verdict is REARVIEW MIRRORS. Apparently, if I rely on my mirrors I won't have the backing up problem. Hmmm.

Starbucks opened. I'm not a die hard coffee drinker. I don't have to have my coffee everyday, but I do enjoy the Starbucks experience. Just hanging out with people, the background music, the sleek decor, friendly faces. I don't know. Ever since my first official Starbucks run with my Pastor (the die hard Starbucks people) I've enjoyed it. I'm glad there is one in Prosser. I got wind that it was open and offering FREE COFFEE! So Holly, Jeremiah, and I went for a coffee experience. It was packed but they had enough workers there that the wait was not unbearable. While there, part of my Pastor's family showed up. Then Jorge was called to come. So there we all were "the gang" (well part of it - the Laras and rest of Babcocks and my two kids were still missing) It was nice. Scoping out the place deciding where our spot was going to be. Tomorrow is the official grand opening, don't know if I'll go again tomorrow. Even Jeremiah is starbucks friendly he was excited to go get "coffee" (hot chocolate)

On my way to starbucks I passed, Jen's Java and did have a twinkle of sadness for them. I wonder if they will lose a lot of business? I mean, I'm sure there are plenty of people that know her and will feel a loyalty to her. I don't know, I felt a little bad for the little guy getting beat out by the big chain.

Crazy Driver

2006-11-18T21:56:00.000-08:00

Here I am posed to write. My fingers are in position and yet nothing is coming to mind. So where are you regular readers? You know who you are. The ones that were faithful at commenting. Or maybe I just haven't been as interesting lately.

Driving in reverse. I have never been any good at it. I remember when I took drivers ed and the first task we had to accomplish before hitting the road was to weave through cones, forward and backwards. I went over and over again, couldn't do it. Everyone else (well the other 2 people) did it right away and were on the road. Not me. It took me two driving sessions before I could get onto the road. I still can't drive in reverse. Cathy forgot her library book, and I was already down the hill. I decided to just go in reverse instead of turning around. I was weaving all over the place. Almost hit a parked car! Half way through I thought, it's so sad that after having my license for 12 years I still can't reverse decently. Anyone want a ride!

Crazy drivers. We were at the Children's Leaders Retreat and we were pulling out of a parking lot. Well there was this center/turn lane. Since there was traffic coming Jorge decided to turn into the turn lane and then move over. Well the look on the lady's face was PRICELESS. She obviously didn't realize that people do pull into the turn lane. She thought that we were surely going to collide into her. Scared spittless. We roared with laughter. Just the look on her face thinking "oh man, I'm a gonner. I'm about to get hit" Yes, those of you who were there are laughing now, reliving the moment (I am).

Holidays

2006-11-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

So thanksgiving is next week. I guess I'm slipping. I haven't even checked to see what ads are out there. It's fun to go shopping he day after. I've done it the past few years. This years there's not any big item I'm looking for. You'd think there'd be something. And we're changing our gift giving routine again. Maybe that's going to be the new tradition - finding a new and different way to give gifts. So readers, what are your thanksgiving/christmas traditions?

A new day.

2006-11-12T23:09:00.000-08:00

We did it. We had two AM services. We've been gearing up to this for some time and the day finally came. I think that it did go well overall. We had visitors and our leadership did a dance. That was fun. Check our website.

Our lesson (with kids) today was about Aaron and Hur. The Israelites were in battle against the Amelikites, when Moses' staff was up the Israelites were winning, but when his arms got tired - they would lose. So Aaron and Hur helped hold his arms up. It wasn't part of the battle strategy. Nobody told them to do it, it wasn't laid out in writing. They saw the effects of his staff, saw the struggle to keep his arms up - they saw the need and did what they could. They were there for him. It's an interesting concept to think about - both when you are the person that needs their arms held up and when you are working with someone that needs help. We are all called to serve. "obey your leaders, put yourselves under their authority. They keep watch over you, they know they are accountable to God for all they do." Hebrews 13:17. We all have leaders, how often are we really serving them - without being asked, without having it all "in writing", without being told exactly how - but just because we are called to serve them. Because we can see their struggle. It's not always all about us. What we need, how we think it needs to be, or what we would rather be doing. Honor your leaders, respect them - God has placed you where you are -, and hold them up.

Bed and Breakfast frenzy

2006-11-10T17:43:00.000-08:00

We are here! We went to our afternoon sessions and we've taken a break to go check in to our bed and breakfast. It passes my test. It's nice and quiet. Very home like - well much cleaner. I don't feel closed in like at a hotel. Also the big determiner for me was: YES THEY HAVE WIRELESS INTERNET! and TV. Here are some pictures. My people are so mean to me. They showed me the bathtub and I freaked out because I just don't do baths. I could never understand how to wash my hair in that thing. At the end they finally showed me the shower stall that is hidden behind the door. Meanies.

Getting the Mac video

2006-11-07T23:26:00.000-08:00

Well I'm enjoying my Mac. I still have a lot to learn. I sort of feel like my mom. Well not quite that bad. But just having to ask how to do things. I finally finished my movie. Hopefully you are able to view it. I was having trouble with uploading it.

Things are going well for me. It came out at work that I'm not planning on returning next year. I got to talk to my teacher about it. I am glad that things are out in the open. I feel freer (is that a word). There's nothing hiding for me in the background - no big secret.

The children's Leader's retreat is this weekend. I always enjoy that. We are staying at a bed and breakfast this year. I've never satyed in one. This is all for you Holly (who keeps wanting to stay in one). I don't even know what to expect. Do those places have tv? internet? Well either way, I'm sure we will have a wonderful experience!

i finally got the MAC

2006-11-04T11:39:00.000-08:00

i finally got it. i'm no longer a pc user! exciting stuff. pretty soon i'll make my first movie entitled "from PC to MAC". we video taped the experience. yes we probably looked pretty dorky! but hey that's what the pc comercial people always look like "dorky" so now i will be in the cool mac club! don't worry i'll still love all you pc users. anyways hopefully we can also use it as a FPU promo with my mac envelope and all my hundreds!

i'm sick

2006-11-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

I'm sick! on my birthday! it all started yesterday. today i tried going to work. i went but i just couldn't take it. i ended up leaving at 10:00. monday i took my computer in to get checked out. it hadn't been charging properly and i needed to fix it for the "computer deal" to go through with my mom. otherwise my Mac would be in jeapardy. so i didn't have it until wednesday. Long days! So i'm finally posting today. Cathy's been complaining about not being able to post either.

we're scheduled to go to porland on saturday to get my mac and then we'll go to the OMSI center. That will be a fun "birthday" event for Jorgie. It will all be exciting, but a long day. well since i did come home sick i should go to sleep. just wanted everyone to know that i'm still alive - just out of the blogging sequence.

Are you too scheduled?

2006-10-27T22:50:00.000-07:00

Me and my schedules. I have somethings that are set times, but many things are just mental notes of stuff I have to get done and the general order that I'm going to do them. Pretty much each day I know what I am setting out to accomplish. Well this all had a funny turn of events last night. Since Jorge has been gone the kids have taken turns sleeping with me. It was Cathy's turn, but Jorge was in bed crying because he wanted to sleep with me too. I wanted to get on the computer and prepare some illustrations for tonight's Dynamic Women's thing. I tried consoling for a bit, and finally exasperation hit and I said, "Jorge, I don't have time to sit here while you cry and I don't want to hear you cry either. This isn't in my schedule I have things to do." He was intrigued, he said "schedule, what do you mean." I said, "I have stuff to do and you crying wasn't in the plan, the schedule" He started smiling. He said, "so if it's not in the schedule you can't do it." I said, "yeah, we can't cry right now. do you want me to fit crying in the schedule for tomorrow." By this time he "got it" and was laughing and said, "yeah put crying in the schedule tomorrow" So I said, "should it be in the morning, after school, or at bedtime." He wanted it at bedtime. I said, "ok, but it will be pretty funny when you get in bed with me and you have to cry because its on the schedule."

So today after school he asked me "mom, is crying still on the schedule?" I said, "yep. are you going to do it." He asked if he had to. I said, "we can take it off the schedule if you want." He decided he didn't want to cry anymore so I should cross it off the schedule.

It was just so funny how one exasperated statement turned things into a funny situation.

Pudding and blogs

2006-10-26T23:44:00.000-07:00

Pudding. It was so fun! Wed. I took chocolate pudding to church with the purpose of "painting" with it. Each kid got a glop of pudding on the table in front of them. Dive in. First we did our verse for the month, and then it was free game! Jeremiah loved the squishy part. He got it all over his face. When he'd get too much on his hands he'd just fling it - yep flying pudding. Anna got it all over her shirt (i hope pudding washes easier than paint - that was my plan) "its not blood, it's pudding". Danielle came late and wanted to play pudding, but it's just not an activity that you pull out again after it's cleaned up. Too bad, because she was one I had in mind when I chose the activity. Danielle finger/hand paints whenever we paint! Truly a Kodak moment and me without my camera.

Cathy's blog is going well. Check it out - it's available to you all now. The other way was too inconvenient! (on account of having logged in as cathy recently, I typed out THIS post - much better - and then clicked to post and it asked me for my login stuff. i typed it in and poof the post was gone - start over!) So no more loggging in and out etc.! Grr. Anyhow read it, remember being her age. My nieces also have blogs, Jorge hasn't asked for one yet. It doesn't seem appealing if it's not a game.

Speechless?

2006-10-24T21:35:00.000-07:00

So how often do you all take pictures of your kids? I know Abe takes pictures almost daily, but how about eveyone else? I have all the right equipment, digital camera, video camera. But it's not something I naturally think of. I thought with the blog and all I'd be taking pictures more often to post, but nope.

Is it possible - I've got nothing to say! Oh, yeah. I skipped out on a class tonight - I wasn't leading it :) I was just tired! I had to decide what would be the most beneficial to me - going to a class or resting/working at home. I chose to sleep a while. I have a hard time sleeping (at the wrong time) I did rest a bit, but not as planned. I kept thinking on things I could be doing. I have several "computer" projects I'm working on. So eventually I got up to work on them. I finished 3 things. That was great to cross them off my list. My boys slept too while I was "resting". Cathy got on her blog. It was weird though, because she was watching TV/blogging - so she didn't go to fast (not that she can go super fast) and then her post page was gone. Like she took too long so it logged out - it went back to the dashboard. I thought that once she logged back in it would be back, but it wasn't she had to start over.

cathy's blog specs.

2006-10-22T23:39:00.000-07:00

ok. for now i've set up Cathy's blog as private. only available to people we know. we have to type your email address in. then you get an email that says something like "cathy wants to add you as a reader, would you like to join." it's kind of a pain, because when you click to go to her blog then, you have to type your email/password to identify yourself as one of her readers, before it lets you see the blog. i haven't decided if i should change it to just regular. my original intent to just not allow anonymous commenters wouldn't work because you can't do that, its either anyone, bloggers only, or go private. in reality who would read her blog anyway other than people we know, but we'll try it this way. hope you read it. oh, she hasn't posted yet - today was just set up day. also if you'd like to read hers let me know so we can add you. i didn't know everyone's email off hand. even if you think i know it - just let me know if you'd like to be one of her readers.

Explosion

2006-10-22T23:05:00.000-07:00

I put some pops in the freezer. Need I say more! We didn't drink them all at lunch. Forgot about them, and came back home tonight. Jorgie opened the freezer for my mom and said, "oh my goodness! I told you grandma that they would blow up if we put them in there." What a mess to clean up.

I'm letting Cathy get a blog. I'm still working on getting it all set up. Soon you will have a link from my site to go to it.

I was making a list of things I need to get done. Needless to say, it's pretty long - and blogging is not on there. Yet, here I am. I didn't know that this would happen when I started a blog. I didn't even always read anyone else's blogs, but now I do. Everyday, checking the blogs.

Jorge is doing great! He's enjoying showing off their skills. I guess it was them six running the freezer against the rest - too finish production. Nobody thought that they would beat the rest of the plant since it was only the six of them, but you guessed it. They smoked them. Jorge's team averages working at 130% (who really understands what that means?? but that's what jorge says) and the nevada guys were working an average of 60%. Which is why they weren't meeting standard. Jorge's team was instructed to go and just work the first few days, to show them that it can be done. Then to begin teaching them. He's loving it.

On with the Show!

2006-10-21T23:04:00.000-07:00

So I've made it through the first week without Jorge. I managed to pick up two tables that were on sale at Shopko. I managed to fit them into my car. I spray painted some plastic tubs. (those were two jobs that would have been Jorge's) I also managed to get SOME of my stuff done, too. I still held my Case for Christ class (with my extra kids - Jorge joined the class, Jeremiah went between watching a movie/joining us.), I met with a friend to go over Sunday's schedule, I babysat late night (10:30 - 2:00) for a friend, I cleaned part of my 'junk room' at church, helped Cathy blog - and check her blog post nonstop to see if anyone wrote. Thanks to those of you who wrote - it made her day., I also did numerous puzzles with Jeremiah, and helped Jorge cook eggs (he loves learning to cook). I think that I have been pretty productive. Now I can think of several things that I haven't done, but that's life.

I'm contemplating letting Cathy get her own blog. She asked me if she could get a blog. I asked her why. She said, "I'm starting to like writing. I could write about my day. Or maybe even a story I make - if you're allowed to write made up things on a blog." I asked her who would read it, since many of her friends don't even own computers, and those who do don't always get much access to it (i've never understood that - parent's that have computers but don't want to let their kids use it - although i feel like i might be a little more protective of my mac.). She of course had an answer "my cousins could read it, abe, elia - you know people we know." I told her that she could write a post on my blog. She was estatic with the response. "let's check the blog to see if someone wrote to me" The funniest thing was that she would get so excited when SHE would comment and the comment number would change (she'd think someone else added a comment). It would get her more writing practice. And if she got a blog, I'd probably start her on some sort of typing instructor. That'd be cool to have her able to type at this age. For hers I'd definately set it up so you couldn't post annonymously. I definately want to know who is talking to my daughter.

So seriously, if anyone has any reason I shouldn't let her get a blog (other than the fact that I'd have to share my computer with her - maybe I should get her a macmini :) ) let me know.

By Cathy

2006-10-20T21:45:00.000-07:00

I was sick today. and I had a fever I slept a long time today. My grandma was taking care of me I didn't go to school today either. later my friend, holly, came to my house and I wanted to go for a bike ride but the tires were flat.

Holly and I are having a friend date tomorrow. we are going to go to olive garden and chuck e cheese. She's picking me up at 12:30. I love the Zupa Toscana from olive garden.

I want my own blog. Do you think I should get my own. Or just write on my mom's?

What's up?

2006-10-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

My niece is finally here! It was great to see the lara girls so excited to see their newest sister! It reminded me of when I had Jeremiah - who is no longer a baby. Maybe I should get another one!

Cathy has had a fever. We left school early. Tonight she still has one. Gave her some med. and it has gone down a bit. We'll see what it looks like tomorrow. Maybe I'll get to stay home with her! I could get so much done. REFOCUS MAGGIE - sorry - I actually do hope that my daughter gets better!

Jorge had an excellent first day in Nevada. They went and showed them that it could be done. He called and you could just hear it in his voice. The joy, pride, and just being alive and on top of the world. It was great to hear his excitement.

My son Jorgie - snores - almost as loud as his dad! I wonder if he has sleep apnea like Jorge. Or maybe he just snores. So much for stretching out - they are all in my bed. I know some of you say "kick them out". Secretly I've always enjoyed sleeping with my kids. The feeling of closeness. A bonding time. I've always liked it.

Tears?

2006-10-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

I was feeling down tonight. If you ask me why - I won't be able to pinpoint it. Maybe it's Jorge being gone or one of a zillion other things. But I just had no enthusiasm. It was aweful. (I'm talking tonight at church) I wasn't productive during our meeting time, because I just didn't feel it. I was feeling off tonight. Even Joddi-Jay asked me if there was anything she could help me with - I couldn't even look her in the eye (i was on the verge of tears) - I just said, "that's ok". Then Holly asked me if there was anything she could pray for me for. Again, I didn't look her in the eye or really answer her because I didn't want to start the water works. I just wanted to get in my car and cry it out. Whatever it was.

Then someone needed a ride home (they live in Prosser), so I couldn' t. I came home and turned on the computer to see if my brother was online - for baby news. I checked my blog. Then my friend called. It was so nice to talk and laugh with someone. It was nice to blog about anonymous. And chat with some people on GoogleTalk. It was nice to have a computer world I could talk interact with. It stopped me from focusing on the way I was feeling. Thanks for reading.

Anonymous REVEALED!!!

2006-10-18T21:56:00.000-07:00

Jeannie has confessed. I talked to her tonight. I decided to just ask her. I knew that she wouldn't deny me if I asked. She claims she never really denied it. Just asked "who is Jeannie", but never said i was wrong. (everyone, be gentle with Jeannie - I still want to be her friend)

I love you Jeannie, and I love finally figuring out the right answer. I had no more guesses after that one. MYSTERY SOLVED!

Abe and Deb are about to have their baby tonight - sometime. They headed to the hospital - at her doc. appt. she was dialated. (check his blog). Now big news yet. Any last minute guesses about boy or girl??

On the road again!

2006-10-17T22:07:00.000-07:00

Jorge is off tomorrow morning. He will be in McCarran, Nevada for 11 days. He was one of six chosen to go and help train workers at a new Distribution center. Jorge is pretty excited! After all they were handpicked to go! "we're sending them our best, to show them how it's done". I am so proud of him. He has vision for himself. He aspires to be all that he can be (not in the army). I know that God has given him favor in they eyes of his leaders. Jorge takes the verse "no matter what you do, work at it with all your might." Ecc. 9:10, to heart. He is such a hardworker and a wonderful provider for my family. I am blessed to have him.

on a side note (and because he's reading over my shoulder) . . . while he's gone . . .
I can take the whole bed (maybe I'll get more rest) 00ps - forgot, my kids always climb in when he's gone!

who wants to hang out with me and my kids? (seriously I will get board - or go crazy)

anyone want to go grocery shopping with me? (can you imagine all my kids and me with a cart full of groceries - yes you can laugh) (holly maybe we could finally go to winco!)

any other great ideas??

well have a great day!

Macbook on the Way!

2006-10-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

I was completely surprised. Usually I think I stay into the loop enough to not get surprised. October is Pastor Appreciation Month. The first week we honored our Sr. Pastor, 2nd week we honored Youth/Assoc. Pastor, (that is our whole pastoral staff). This sunday we were having a potluck to celebrate. When I got up to dismiss the kids, Holly interrupted me by having the kids all give me pepsi. That was cute. Then I continued talking (each week before dismissing I give parents a little nugget of info. regarding what our focus for the day is). Pastor then interrupted me and proceeded to tell how much he appreciates me, etc. He said that I was a Pastor to the children of Grandview A/G and they wanted to honor me. He said a lot of nice things - I almost cried. They gave me a gift basket w/bonus. It was a wonderful feeling. Totally unexpected. God has brought me to Grandview A/G. I wouldn't be the person I am today without the leadership that I've been serving under. I have grown so much. It was nice to know that the growth is visible. I pray that I will continue to bring honor to God.

Later I found out all the people who knew that it was coming. Nobody leaked it out. Amazing!

Soon and very soon, I will have a Macbook of my own!!!! I am soooooo excited. Its all coming together. My mom is buying my current laptop. Macbook for my birthday now that's a nice gift. Woohoo!

300

2006-10-12T23:03:00.000-07:00

We hit 300! Since I added stat counter to my blog. I remember when I added it, it seemed like it'd never add up. I blocked it from counting the times that I get on.

Thanks for reading my thoughts. Giving me your insight/opinions. This blog has done a lot for me. Just liking to get myself out there. I enjoy talking about things. This way I can say as much as I want, hope someone has something to say about it too, and then talk about it again. Its great! I can think out my thoughts and you can think out your response, or just respond on a whim, I like them all.

Some of you who read this on a regular basis might want to consider starting your own blog. Just click on the blogger button at the top. It's quick and simple to start up. The rest of you can continue reading my blog, please do. It's fun to think that we're kind of connecting with each other through this technology.

Thanks for reading! I've been waiting to reach 300 - don' t know why that number - now I'm looking forward to 500! This is great!

Moving Day

2006-10-11T22:56:00.000-07:00

The difference between having goals and aspirations and not being content with what you have - or where God has placed you? Anyone have wisdom?

Those of you who know me, know that I fluctuate from time to time between 1. wanting my own house (rented or owned), 2. deciding to live with my parents indefinately. There are so many issues either way.

I want so much to have my own place. To have my home exactly the way that I want it. To have it beautiful or messy at my own will. To let my dog come in for a bit (it would still be a primarily outside dog). To have grass. My own furniture, my own stuff. My own home. A place to be hospitable, have kids parties, or just hang out. Carpet, definatlely carpet.

Financially, it may be wiser to stay where I am. I love the bond my kids have with my parents. I love seeing my parents without making the effort to come and visit. Late night talks with my mom when everyone else is asleep. Support for my mom with my dad. Support for me with my kids. Leaving my mom??? She'd get too lonely wouldn't she? Or maybe she'd like the peace and quiet. Her own sewing room.

I want to someday have my dream home, or maybe just any home at this point. I went to visit my friends new home this week and I wanted to cry when I got home. Cry for the beauty of it, how it reminded me of my past places. Cry because of the things that I want for me and my kids. But is that what God wants? Is it wrong for me to want my own place? Should I not think on that and be happy at where God has me? We have more of the house now with the garage built into a bedroom for my parents, but it's still not the same. Shall I just plant myself here, in my childhood home and forget about having my own place? Or should I give those thoughts a second look? I know that true wisdom comes from the Lord, but what are your thoughts? To move or not to move that is the question. oh yeah don't forget "and why"?

Internet Reliable?

2006-10-09T20:30:00.000-07:00

Dumb football! I was out at recess and a kid was tossing me a football. In my effort to be fun and energetic I started playing with him, then it happened. I fumbled the ball. It jabbed my finger. Hard. Now my finger is hurting. That's what I get for trying to be cool!

Can you remember life with out internet? It's so hard to think about. All things I wouldn't learn. Whenever I want to know about something I look it up online. Even if its just a bunch of peoples opinions I can still weigh what they say and draw my own conclusion. I use the internet for everything. I tried getting somewhere without going on Mapquest just by going on someone's verbal directions. I didn't make it and had to end up going home to check Mapquest. I've been taking online courses. They send you printed materials as well, but I just use the online versions. Well for the past couple days my class hasn't been available online. I emailed and they said that my class wasn't available for a while. It's weird because it's a class I've been doing online. So I've had to get out my printed materials. It's just not the same. I know there are some of you that prefer books, print. But still, think about it life without the internet. What would change for you? Imagine what new inventions will pop out in the near future? Well I still need to get Macified. I getting seriously behind the times without all the Mac products. Soon, soon, soon.

Daddy loves me! And that's that.

2006-10-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

Picture day is tomorrow. Cathy wants to have her hair all curled. Someday I should just let that girl get a perm. She always wants her hair culed. Only her hair doesn't curl very easily. you curl it and right away it goes out. who knows if we'll even get up early enough to try. Jorge, my son, got a haircut for pictures. pretty short, but you can't tell that he cut it himself earlier. Jeremiah, wants to read, read, read. And he is doing great toilet wise. He loves it. So do I.

My dad and I had a good talk today. He sleeps alot, and isn't always fully awake for a conversation. We had a Dynamic Women's meeting on the 29th of Sept. One question we had to discuss was a person who has been influencial in our christian walk. I talked about my dad. How he was always so loving and kind, yet he could also be firm if he needed to. He wasn't overly firm, or yell, or threaten. We knew when it was no, and had respect for him. I said that to me he was a great example of God's love. Loving, but will reprimand if needed. I always look to him as an example. One of the ladies asked if I've ever told my dad. I hadn't. She said that I really should let him know that he influenced me. So tonight I did. He was sitting on his chair. I was laying on his bed. It was great. He got teary eyed and said, "good". He can be a man of few words. It was an implied "good, that i influenced you. or good that you watched me" He did say that he loves me. I always knew that. My brother being the first born knew things before me and was showing off reciting abc's and numbers, check out his super smart daughter . Someone asked me what did I know, well i couldn't say the same thing so I said, "i know my daddy loves, me and that's that!" I'm glad that I had the opportunity to share with him, and that someone told me I should. Thanks Donna.

Makes me think "what are my kids seeing when they look at me." I pray that I will be as influencial in a good way to them as my dad is to me.

Carpet, YEAH!

2006-10-04T22:50:00.000-07:00

Carpet. It is wonderful! We've been updating our children's area at church. We're painting, accessorizing, changing seating, breaking down walls, and yes we got CARPET in our kids church room. It was installed on Tuesday. I layed on the floor and gazed around the room - it's not finished yet - and just thought. Thought of the way God has been blessing us. I was just so thankful, so appreciative. Long ago I gave up asking for carpet. It was always a negative response - yes kids do make messes, we know. But the feeling of sitting on the floor, bouncing balls around without such loudness, running and falling without wails, music sounds better, chairs don't screach when moved, no dirty socks, I could go on and on. It finally happened. And it happened in such a nice way. As I lay on the carpet I almost cried. Maybe it's because I no longer have carpet in my house, but I love it. I love it so much I even did cartwheels in there.

The kids came tonight. Their faces were wonderful. They took off their shoes, we did summersault races, kartwheels, even the babies did crawling races! It was great. Makes me want to get carpet back at home.

Changes are coming to Grandview A/G and it is looking wonderful.

Life changes here.

2006-10-02T18:07:00.000-07:00

Well Jorge is taking the plunge! He's joining the Prism diet - TONIGHT. Well I suppose it's not just a diet, it's a lifestyle change. There are several different phases. The first one is the hardest, and then slowly more food choices are added. Scary stuff. You know even after stuff is added back in; it's weighing your food, counting calories. Everyone I know that's been through that diet has one of those food weighers and a FAT book. Even Cathy is getting into this calorie counting thing. She just asked me to check how many calories in a piece of watermelon, "check please before I eat it."

I pray that I can be an encourager. I can be such a stickler for the rules that I often don't praise little gains. Or I focus more on minor losses. I think I'm already flunking as an encourager. We were talking last night about what his weight goal would be. He told me what he thought. I thought it still sounded like a lot. I told him a weight and he said that was way too skinny. So I asked him to give me visuals, people we know that weighed the right amount. We kept mentioning different people. He kept saying I was picking too skinny people. I didn't think I was so I went to the BMI website. The weights he was saying were on the overweight side and the one's i was saying were on the lower end of the normal weight side. He couldn't believe it.

I say that I flunked as an encourager because I should have just encouraged him to lose the weight he wanted and then trust that when he got there he would see it wasn't enough and go for more. Instead I was taking him to the extreme and he was feeling like that was an unreachable goal. I think, if you're going to go on an extreme diet program then you might as well aim high. But then I suppose you should just take baby steps. Anyways, I pray that I will be a blessing to him through this time.