... Ramblings Of The Cool Chick...

Giving It To God - My Testimony

2012-02-21T07:19:00.001-07:00

I have a friend on Facebook who I read his status updates and my heart breaks for him. He so desperatly wants to be in a relationship with someone and it doesn't sound like this person has the same interest. I can tell his hope, his despair, his anxiety... and it reminds me of a place that I was at a few years ago.

In 2005 I got divorced from my husband of 7 years. I had two small children, a good job, and a house of my own. I started dating someone who had been a good friend of mine... things clicked, we had future plans, we were together all the time, etc... and the bottom fell out of that relationship. It made me think more about my dad leaving us and never turning back. I felt like something was wrong with me for all these relationships not to work out.

I was devistated. I was hurt, I was broken, I was sad beyond belief. I couldnt function and all I wanted to do was cry. I felt that I was useless, I felt that I was not worthy of someone's love and it sent me into a tailspin.

You see, I am a very independant person. I have never relied on a man for anything in my life and for whatever reason when this relationship didnt work out as planned, it crushed me. I was very jaded on the thought of another relationship so I drank more than I am now proud of and did some things I am even less proud of... but the fact of the matter is, that's my past. I dont live there anymore.

Somehow in the mist of dancing on pianos and doing Jager shots, God was talking to me. He was telling me that I am better than all that. He was telling me that is no way for me to live my life. He was telling me that I am loved by Him, even if I wasnt loved by that boyfriend or that father anymore.

As you know... I grew up Catholic. We were pretty religious in the sence of going to church every Sunday and memorizing prayers but as I went through my divorce, I realized that it wasnt the place for me anymore. I did a little research and started going to a Lutheran church where I met some amazing people... but I felt like I was going through the motions. One of the ladies I met introduced me to another Christian church and it was that day that I gave my life to Christ. I always felt like I knew Him, but the truth of the matter is I knew religion... I knew rules. I knew traditions. But I didnt know Him. I didnt have a relationship with Him that I do today.

My life is at a place of peace... my life isnt perfect, but with Him beside me I can get through it. It was by God's grace that we dealt with my mom's cancer as we did. It was by God's grace that I met my husband and he has now started a walk with Jesus as well. It is by God's grace that I am raising some God-loving children.

I couldnt do it on my own... I had to give it to God for the pieces to fall in place. I'm not saying it was easy... there was a lot of times (and still times) that I want control. I want to do things my way... and that's when things start to fall apart. I have to remember that God has a plan for me. I have to trust and be faithful. By accepting Jesus into my heart, I dont need the rules and traditions and whatnot that religion brings. Those rules and traditions lead to depression and anxiety. Those rules and traditions lead to feelings of unworthiness. That's not what God's love is about, He wants us to be happy.

So for my friend... I pray that he sits back and listens for God. That still small voice will lead him to where he should be, I just know it. Giving it to God isnt easy, but its so worth it.

Time To Confess

2012-02-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

I confess... I am irritated with my weight loss this week. I have worked my hardest, ate my best, and I am going up on the scale. I feel a little defeated. I hear alot of people say "that's b/c you are gaining muscle"... well, that's great, but until I see the scale going down instead of up I get upset.

I confess... I prayed this morning about this fitness adventure. It told God that I am going to keep at it, I am going to keep working hard b/c my goal is to be in top shape so I can best serve His people in Guatemala in a few months. If that means I dont look slimmer or go down a pants size, that's b/c I am supposed to look like I do... but I want my heart physically (emotionally and mentionally) to be healthy.

I confess... I tried my husband's Boom! supplement yesterday before the gym. I had a burst of energy and had my hardest workout on the Arc Trainer. I did it again today and thought I was going to die, but I pushed through and finished all 30 minutes. Phew, I am tired!

I confess... I got upset with my ex this week. This weekend is his holiday, he's known this for months and text me telling me he has to work on Saturday and on Monday so he decided not to take the kids. And for me NOT to call his family b/c I shouldnt burden them. Really? I think of my children as a blessing and a joy, not a burden. I know for a fact that they dont feel that way... I think there is only one person who does and that's him. It makes me sad. The good thing is my kids KNOW they are loved, regardless of that.

I confess... my ex also told me he is having surgery in March, right before the weekend he is supposed to have the kids. He told us this after he told us he isnt having the kids for President's Day and my daughter got mad and said, "Im calling Grandma". I told her to make sure Grandma knew it was her that wants to be there, not that I am asking for it b/c I am fine with them being home... so she calls her Grandma and says " My dad's having surgery and he wont take us that weekend... but you want us huh?". I could hear his mom say "Of course...we'll work out the details". I am so thankful for the people that my children have in their life and that they are mature enough to see passed the crappy parts.

I confess... my daughter is having a sleepover with a friend tonight and I am happy to have some time with Drewby. Even if he'd rather go to McDonald's than Cafe Zupa (which is what I am craving).

What are you confessing? Swing over to Mamarazzi's blog and link up!

Weigh In Wednesday

2012-02-15T08:08:00.000-07:00

I think I am going to start saving my updates for Friday... because I allow my weekends for cheat days (maybe not being as religious about what goes in my mouth, but still by no means over doing it... as well as not going to the gym one of the two days) it takes a few more days to get in gear... so maybe I'll call it "Fitness Friday" or something instead :)One strange thing... and I dont know what to do about it... On Friday, I was down to my lowest weight so far. Saturday, I was up 2 pounds. I forgot to weigh on Sunday. Monday, I was up 5 pounds. WHAT?!? I bought a new scale thinking this one was malfunctioning... get it out of the box, set it up, and it tells me I am 2 pounds heavier than the old scale did. This is so discouraging to me. I can see a difference... I am eating well... I am at the gym every morning and increasing my excercise. It's just frustrating to me... so today, I didnt weight myself. I am frustrated at the moment and I took it out on the Arc Trainer this morning... I did 25 minute on that beast and feel fabulous so I am just going to focus on that for a bit and not worry what the poundage says for now. BUT... if anyone has any ideas, tips, suggestions I am open to hearing them.

Ty's First Dance

2012-02-14T09:16:00.000-07:00

For about 3 years now, I've heard about this dance Ty is going to have when she is in 6th grade. She's been talking about it for that long... but as the time got closer, she wasn't as excited about it. She didnt like the idea of dancing with boys and wearing a dress. LOL Until she found out it is no longer a formal affair... it's an 80's themed dance :)Thank goodness Rue21 had a bunch of their neon, punk rocker stuff on sale for like $4/each. We got up early this morning to crimp her side ponytail and put on a rainbow of eye shadow. Of course, big hoop aqua earrings and pink glittery lipstick. The outfit was complete by a pair of leg warmers and big bangs.

Hope you enjoy your fun day... doing the "Cha Cha Slide" and not dancing with boys :)

Happy Valentine's Day my love.

2012-02-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

I sent Bryan an email this morning wiht the top 25 reasons I love him. Thought I'd share:25. When your arms are around me, I feel safe.24. I love when you reach for my hand to hold.23. I love that you take pride in your appearance. 22. I love when you sing songs from KLOVE on the radio.21. I love that you take such an interest in what the kids have going on.20. I love that you are good at math, b/c I sure am not!19. I love that you are serious about becoming healthy.18. I LOVE that you don’t chew anymore.17. I love that you take me seriously when I tell you about things that bother me (respect)16. You make me laugh.15. You motivate me to be a better person. 14. I love going on the motorcycle together.13. I love when you kiss me.12. I love that you take such good care of the kids. 11. I love that you do the laundry and other chores.10. I love when we have weekends alone together.9. I love snuggling with you. 8. I love that you will let me pick the movies to watch, even though I am going to fall asleep 5 minutes later.7. I love that you help me with my computer when I don’t know what I am doing. 6. I love that you know when I am stressed and do what you can to help.5. I love that I can trust you. 4. I love that I can talk to you, about anything.3. I love that you are getting to know Jesus.2. I love that you got a matching tattoo with me.1. I LOVE YOU!!!Happy Valentine’s Day my love.Bryan sent me these flowers to my work today. What a lucky girl I am!

The Book of Joshua

2012-02-13T07:14:00.002-07:00

The Life Project: JoshuaPastor Matt RobertsThe first words God speaks to Israel in the book of Joshua are "Moses is dead, now arise and go into the land I promised you!" After 40 years of wandering it was time. A new generation stood at the helm of a long awaited promise. God reminds them to let dead things lie and new things come alive in them. Many people see the book of Joshua as a book of battles, of which there are many, but we find hidden under the scenes of gruesome battlefields an old promise that has come alive in a new generation.38 years earlier Joshua was a young man. He was chosen by Moses as the representing spy from his tribe to be one of the first 12 Israelites to enter the land of their forefathers. He crossed the Jordan River in front of an expectant nation. Joshua experienced the beauty of the land, probably allowed himself to dream of what it would be like to raise his family there and finally have a place to call his own. Maybe he even picked out a perfect place for a perfect home. The time had come for a wandering nation of former slaves to settle down. But something went terribly wrong. As Joshua and Caleb reported promise and vision for a new tomorrow their ten companions spoke with fear of giants and city walls and insurmountable odds. We know the rest of the story, Israel fearfully walked away from promise that day. For forty years Joshua walked a path of wandering he didn't choose. I wonder how many times he reflected on the things he saw as a spy. How many time did he think to himself, "things didn't have to be this way!". It is a sad thing to grow old knowing there was a better path, a sweeter life, greater promise that was just one different choice away.Now God is reminding Joshua's Generation that those things are dead. The old is gone and the new had come. It was time to reclaim the promises of Joshua's youth but three things had to happen first. The first is to make the choice to walk away from dead things. This was no insult to Moses or his impact as a leader. It was God making a statement to an entire nation saying the days of rebellious wandering are dead and gone, let THIS generation choose a different path! Just because you have wandered for so long doesn't mean you have to keep on doing it. Walk out of the wilderness and reclaim the promises of God!The next command is to be strong. The book of Joshua shows us that God's plans for us require action on our part. If the promised land was to be theirs they had a war in front of them. God promised to provide the victory, to fight on behalf of His people but first they had to find the strength to go! To find the strength to press beyond the fears of the unknown and allow God to be their victor.The third command we find in Joshua is to take courage. I believe courage and faith walk hand in hand. God was calling a generation to place courage behind their convictions. They were called to simply believe in God. Would they find the courage to step out and live great lives because of that belief? Would they leave behind the safety of the present and head into the fear of the unknown future just because God said so? Now that takes courage!God continues to call forth generations today. He is calling a people who are willing to walk away from the graveyards of their past with strength, unwavering determination and the courage to live out what they believe everyday! Will you be a part of a new Joshua Generation? If so, it is time to move! It is time to go places with God that have never been seen before! Look out world! Here we come!Suggested Reading Of JoshuaMonday, 2/13/12 - Joshua 1-4Tuesday, 2/14/12 - Joshua 5-8Wednesday, 2/15/12 - Joshua 9-12Thursday, 2/16/12 - Joshua 13-16Friday, 2/17/12 - Joshua 17-20Saturday, 2/18/12 - Joshua 21-24

Time to Confess

2012-02-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

I Confess... that I totally suprised my daughter last Friday. If you haven't been keeping up, I took her to AZ to see her Godmomma. She had no idea we were going, she didnt even know part of the plan until 4am Friday morning, and the rest of the plan when we got the the airport. It was so much fun!

I Confess... even though its been over 2 yrs since I've seen Angie, we always fall into where we were before. There is no lag time. There is no awkwardness. I think being friends with someone for the past 28 years allows you to do that. I am so blessed by her friendship.

I Confess... I felt guilty for leaving my boys home, so I loaded up on Groupons and DailyDeals so they'd have fun activities to do in our absence.

I Confess... I didnt go to the gym this morning. I couldnt get Mister Husband out of bed. I know I could have gone alone, but I wasn't feeling motivated. Now I feel bad... and want to go.

I Confess... I am down another pound or so on the scale this morning. Yay!

I Confess... I have a whole Valentine's date planned with my hubby tomorrow. Movie, Massage, and Sushi. I can't wait. I love spending time just the two of us!

Our Love Story

2012-02-08T11:48:00.001-07:00

1. How long have you and your significant other been together? December marked 4 years.

2. How did you meet? {What's your "love" story?} December 28th, 2007 I got a text from a friend asking if I was seeing anyone. I kinda was at the time, but nothing serious. She asked if I could give a guy she works with my number b/c she thought he’d be perfect for me. Uh, sure… whatever. I wasn’t thrilled about it… I had gotten out of a terribly heartbreaking relationship about 18 months earlier and was very jaded by the thought of a boyfriend. We texted for a few days and met up for dinner at Iggy’s in Layton and then he ended up meeting up with my friends later that night to go dancing in SLC.

3. If married, how long have you been married? If not, is this the guy you hope to marry? {do tell} Yes, we got married in September 2008

4. If you are married, where did you get married at? Big or small wedding? We got married at the Valley of Fire State Park near Las Vegas. We’ve both been married before so it wasn’t a big ordeal. We had family and close friends come.

5. Do you have any nick-names that you call one another? Do share! Well… I call him Mister Husband, he calls me Wifey. Babe, honey, love… all those work too. With an occasional “dumbass”.

6. Name 3 things you love most about your honey. He loves my kids as they were his own. He cleans my house and does my laundry. He holds hands with me.

7. Tell us how he proposed? LOL… we were walking in SLC a few months after we started dating and he said “I could see us being married…” and I said only if I had enough beer. Just joking around… the joke went on for a few months until he asked my parents for their blessing and he proposed on my birthday.

8. Is he a flowers and teddy bear kind of guy for v-day, or strawberries, champagne, and rose petals? Hmmm…. Flowers, jewelry kind of guy. We are going to get a massage and out for sushi this year.

9. Are you a sunset dinner on the beach kind of girl, or pop a movie in and relax on the couch? Well, I tend to fall asleep the minute we put a movie in… so I like to go out. Dinner and an early movie… or something like that.

10. Tell us one thing you'd like to do with your significant one day. If you could do anything? Go anywhere? I love going to Vegas with Mister Husband. We always have a great time… Fat Tuesday drinks, little gambling, a lot of shopping, a lot of eating, just having a good time. In addition to that, I love going on Harley rides with him… up the canyon around the dam.

11. Tell us what you plan on doing on this Valentine's Day. I guess I answered this above… massages and sushi 

12. Are you asking for anything this Valentine's day? I asked for a Sterling Silver ring from JCP… not sure if he remembered. We’ll see!

13. Give us one piece of advice of keeping a relationship strong and full of love. Forgiveness… forgive little things, forgive big things. I’ve learned a lot from my previous marriage and relationships and forgiveness is something I’ve learned. Set expectations… discuss what you will and won’t tolerate. Communication is HUGE… talk about everything and anything. Kiss and hold hands as often as you can. Affection and words of affirmation are needed.

14. Show us a picture of what love means to you.

Phoenix Zoo

2012-02-08T07:46:00.003-07:00

Enough Already!

2012-02-08T07:42:00.001-07:00

On my way home from Arizona, I see on the news that Josh Powell did a murder/suicide with his kids in their home in WA. My heart sank. I am so sad for this family. The mom disappeared 2 yrs ago from their home in Utah, so we have heard a lot about it over that time... the crazy stories of love affairs, pornography, child custody, and now death.

I dont know how someone can have so much hate and hurt in them that they could even fathom thinking about, let alone, carry out a plan to murder your own children. Those sweet little boys. I heard the 911 calls this morning at the gym and I got all teary-eyed. That poor social worker... and then the sister asking for help.

I am so tired of all the freaky things going on around me... cops dying in a drug warrant shootout, people committing suicide, possible high school bombing, and now this. It makes me so sad.

Weigh In Wednesday

2012-02-08T06:03:00.000-07:00

Even after a weekend of cake and alcohol-infused ice cream, I'm still down on the scales. I weighed in at 173.2 today.... And after looking back at my list, that's down from 174.8 so I'm making progress. I can see it in my waist and thighs, that makes me happy :)

The Book of Deuteronomy

2012-02-07T07:09:00.000-07:00

Genesis Project Connect Week 5: Deuteronomy
Pastor Matt Roberts

Forty years has passed. No homes, no roots, no heritage, nothing is permanent for the people of Israel. Days just seem to fly by one after another. They lack purpose,lack meaning, lack life! They are a people who were once so full of promise, so full of life and purpose. But they have forgotten years in the arid, dusty wilderness have robbed memory of the good times. They once knew the voice of God, once stood in His presence, once received His calling and His promise. They were a people on a mission who lost their way.

It must have seemed amazing how quickly those forty years passed by. One moment they were standing at the base of Mount Sinai on their way to a new land, a new beginning. The presence of God was so real in those early moments. They had come face to face with a living God and he spoke words of promise and purpose into a ragtag group of people and called them a nation. Yet now, forty years later they were walking in circles in a barren wilderness without any of the things promised to them. How did this happen? How did things go so wrong?

Quite simply, they forgot. The word Deuteronomy means, "the second telling of the law". We get the sense in Leviticus that God is warning His people "listen to what I say, this is VERY important!" maybe if we would have been there we would have heard "don't make me say this twice!". I am sure at the time Israel wondered how they could ever forget. God had been so good, so real, so relevant right where they were. God had invaded the nation of former slaves and I am sure they believed they would never be the same again. But soon reality set in. The wilderness was REAL. Real heat, real hunger, real thirst, real blisters on their feet and when they got to the river there were real giants and real armies on the other side. They became frustrated and tired and in doing so they took their eyes off of God. They set Him and His Word aside and placed their focus on their present sufferings instead of their God future.

Now forty years have passed and God is again calling a new generation to a promised land. For the second time the Law of God is laid out before the people. God asks them to be faithful, to remember this time all that He speaks to His people. It was a choice of blessings or curses, a literal choice of life and death. How would this new generation respond? Would they hold onto the things spoken in the presence of God, or allow circumstances to rob Gods words from them once again? The choice was now theirs and Gods hopes and direction was clear "choose life!".

As much as I would love to question the people of Israel in their forgetfulness, to ask how they could have walked out of Egypt unscathed and through the Red Sea on dry land, how they could have witnessed a mountain come alive by the presence of God and see a cloud of glory over their camp every day and still forget the things God spoke into them? I cannot question because I understand, cannot judge because I am no different.
How many times have we experienced the hand of God moving us? How many times
has His word permeated the silence of our lives. How many times was our response temporary? We, just like Israel are so good at letting life creep in and steal Gods Word from our lives. We get busy, situations change and without even realizing it, we slowly walk away from the clear direction of God. Most of the time we don't do it on purpose. We just drift away as the mountain top experiences become distant memories. Our passions wain, our resolve is tested and through all of our resolutions made in Gods
presence, the wilderness shows up and sucks us back into the same old ways of a monotonous life.

What if we made this time count? What if we chose life and blessing and ran with it? Ran with a resolve to never look back, never slow down, never to forget. It is a staggering thought for me to wonder where I would be today if I had refused to be sidetracked, if I had stuck to my promises, if I had ran with every word spoken to my heart in His presence. But just like Israel there is nothing we can do about what's behind us, no recreating time wasted. We can allow God to speak into the depths of our hearts
once again and resolve that this time it is going to be different through the power of a patient and graceful God.

SUGGESTED READING 2/6/12 - 2/11/12
Monday 2/6 - Deuteronomy 1-4
Tuesday 2/7 - Deuteronomy 5-11
Wednesday 2/8 - Deuteronomy 12-19
Thursday 2/9 - Deuteronomy 20-26
Friday 2/10 - Deuteronomy 27-30
Saturday 2/11 - Deuteronomy 31-34

Ty's birthday surprise

2012-02-03T06:16:00.001-07:00

My dear friend, Angie, lives in Phoenix. Angie and I have been friends since kindergarten. We grew up together in Indiana. She moved to Arizona for school and ended up calling it home. She is my kids Godmother. The last time Ty saw her was at my wedding, almost 4 years ago. She asks about her often and has been begging for her to come visit.

Angie planned to come out for Ty's birthday but Bryan and I thought it'd be fun to surprise Ty and fly there to see Angie. It took all I had not to tell her!

I packed the suitcase last weekend and hid it in my closet. I arraigned things at work. I made sure to stay quiet about it so no one slipped and told her. Last night she was looking all over for her Tom Brady jersey to wear to school today and was so upset she couldn't find it... With me quietly chuckling b/c it was in the suitcase :)

This morning I went in her room at 415am to wake her up... I told her Angie was flying in to surprise her and we needed to go to the airport to get her... All the while the bags were in the car and I'm quickly grabbing things she's done with, like hair ties and toothbrushes.

We drive down to SLC as she plans what were going to do all weekend with our special guest. As we pulled in the parking lot, I handed her a wrapped gift, a photograph notebook I made on shutterfly. On the first page it said, " just kidding, Angie isn't coming... We're flying to Phoenix to see her. Love mom"

Her first reaction? She yelled at me! Said I was mean for tricking her, as she has a big smile one her face. We hurried and got things out of the trunk and jumped on the shuttle.

We checked our bags and got into line for security and the agent says, " I have two questions for you.... What's your name? What's your flight number?". She gave him her name but had a panicked look on the flight number... She told him that she didn't even know we were going on a flight until we got here!!! Everyone around us laughed.

We're sitting in the airport, waiting for our flight... Can't wait to start our adventure! ( I can't upload off my iPad, so I'll ave to add pictures later)

Favorite Things Swap 2012

2012-02-02T14:51:00.002-07:00

I did this SWAP last year and I am so excited to be included again... fun stuff!!

Wednesday Weigh-In

2012-02-01T07:10:00.003-07:00

I think we have a scale malfunction this morning... After having it say "Error" 3x my weight said I was 3lbs more than yesterday and Bryan's was like 8lbs more. Pretty sure that's not the case. We maybe investing in a new scale tonight.

*** Update, changed the battery to see if that helped...and it went to 173.8 which I believe puts me at my starting number. Maybe I am now down to losing fat!! ***

Happy 12th Birthday T-Nic

2012-01-31T06:58:00.000-07:00

Today my darling girl turns 12. Wow... So much has changed in the past 12 years, but every day I thank God for the gift he gave me, my daughter. She is amazing. She is smart, she is sassy, she is independant, she is responsible, she is mature beyond her years, she is fun, she is God-loving, she is a good example, she can be bratty, but I think it comes with the territory. I am proud to be her momma and I love her with all my heart.

The Book of Numbers

2012-01-30T07:03:00.000-07:00

Genesis Life Project Week 4 : Numbers
Matt Roberts

The Hebrew title for the book of Numbers is bemidbar, which is literally translated as "wanderings in the desert". What a fitting title for this book. We pick up in the story after one year has passed since Moses and the Israelites walked out of Egypt and through the Red Sea. Israel has just received the promise of their own land at the base of Mt. Sinai and very detailed instructions of how to get there. It was a 9 day walk from Egypt to the promised land, the path was laid out before them, God was with them, this promise seemed like a slam dunk. But it wasn't. What should have happened didn't. They knew what was expected and they did the opposite. They took the long way, a 9 day walk turned into a 38 year journey.
The first detour Israel exited onto was a detour of fear. In only one years time they stood on the precipice of a new land, a new life, a new beginning. The promises of God were clear, "I am giving YOU this Land". Twelve spies were sent out and what they found was both wonderful and terrifying. The land was fruitful and beautiful. It was like nothing they had ever seen before but it was also inhabited by giants and armies and seemingly insurmountable odds. All of a sudden God's promises seemed to pale in comparison to what stood before them. They were afraid. Paralyzed by fear. They had stood at the border of the promised land, peeked into a world so perfect that it made the dry and dusty wilderness seem like a distant memory. Yet they chose fear over promise, wilderness over paradise, to be wanderers in a strange land instead of a glorious homecoming. Fear robbed promise, robbed the next 38 years, and robbed God's purposes and promise from Israel.

Isn't it funny that one wrong turn, one wrong decision always seems to lead to two more? It seems as if the moment the people chose not to grab hold of their promised land everything else began to fall apart. The next detour Israel charged into was the detour of rebellion. At the time I am sure it felt like a shortcut. "Why is God bringing us to this land only to let us die?". God is clearly confused, I know a better way! Over and over God spoke and His people completely ignored Him. He commanded them to seize their promise and they retreated in fear. He asked them to follow and lift up their leader and they found it much easier to throw rocks at him. He told them to speak to the rock for water and they struck it. He gave them a law to live by and they despised it. Over and over again God was leading His people towards promise and time and time again they rebelled declaring "our ways are better than Yours!".

The third detour Israel took was the detour of apathy. Soon wandering began to feel normal. The wilderness began to feel like home. Israel was no longer a promise driven people. They stopped waking up every morning driven by a passion and a purpose. They had been convinced that this nomadic life was all that was left for them. So they stopped caring. Stopped fighting. Stopped living. Stopped hoping for something more. The wilderness was too vast, they had walked for too long, and the beauty they beheld standing at the gateway to their promise seemed too long ago to remember. They had their shot and they missed! In their minds they lost, the game was over and the wilderness was all that was left.

So they gave up and made the wilderness home. But even when they quit on God, God never quit on them. While they wandered God's presence stayed with them. When they retreated in fear God kept whispering promise and potential. When they rebelled God forgave and when they quit God kept
pushing them towards His promise. He commanded them to build a Tabernacle in the middle of their camp in the wilderness so that He could dwell among them. His presence rested over the community as a cloud during the day and a fire in the sky at night. No matter how far off track Israel got God pursued them, loved them and stayed faithful in spite of them.

Aren't you glad God is faithful through our wanderings? We live in a world that offers more detours from the promises of God than ever before. Big shiny signs that promise an easier road, a shortcut through rough times, an escape from the reality of the journey. But just like with Israel those detours lead to nowhere. We find ourselves stuck in the wildernesses of life scared of what is in front of us, stubbornly fighting to find our own way through it, and exhaustedly asking "is this it?". The good news is that God doesn't abandon us in the wilderness. His presence stays with us like the cloud in the book of Numbers and He is always reminding us that His promises do not come with an expiration date. No matter how long and how far we have wandered God calls us back to His path of promise whispering into our hearts the whole way that we were not created for the wilderness. God gave his only Son, Jesus to meet us right in the middle of our wilderness of sin and carry us into the promise of relationship with Him.

SUGGESTED READING FOR NUMBERS
1/30/12 - 2/4/12
Monday 1/30/12 - Numbers 1-3
Tuesday 1/31/12 - Numbers 5-10
Wednesday 2/1/12 - Numbers 11-17
Thursday 2/2/12 - Numbers 18-22
Friday 2/3/12 - Numbers 23-25, 27-30
Saturday 2/4/12 - Numbers 31 - 36

What are you confessing today?

2012-01-27T07:24:00.001-07:00

I Confess... that being with my ex's family this week wasn't as bad as I thought.

I Confess... that I actually found myself missing them and am grateful for the presence they have in my kids' lives.

I Confess... I fell in love with my husband a little bit more this week when he took the day off work to go to my ex-husband's grandma's funeral to be a support to my kids.

I Confess... I am going to get my tattoo touched up today.

I Confess... I didnt make it to the gym today. I feel really guilty about it.

I Confess... that I am going to be skipping the confessions next week, for a good reason, that I can't share yet :)

Hunger Dinner 2/18/12

2012-01-26T08:14:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, February 18th we are doing a “Hunger Dinner” as a fundraiser for our mission trip to Guatemala.

During this dinner we will go into specifics of the trip, what we are going to do there, who we are going to meet there, and the dinner will consist of the type of food the Mayan’s eat to give you an example of what it will be like for us while we are there.

Tickets are $15/each for dinner. If you are in the area and are interested in coming or if you just want to donate towards the cost of my trip, let me know. Checks can be made out to VisionTrust with my name in the subject line. (All donations are tax-deductible.)

Please let me know if you have any questions and thanks in advance,
Lisa

Weigh In Wednesday

2012-01-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

Another week down... and I am down a little bit from last week.

I am now at 174 (which is still up from where I started)... but I can tell a difference looking at myself. I am upping my weight on the machines, so I know I am making progress. I feel stronger.

My hubby is down 3lbs and its interesting to me the difference that makes... he seems slimmer to me, especially his face/neck.

We'll see what next week brings!

Goodbye Grandma Lloyd

2012-01-24T07:56:00.000-07:00

This week has been interesting. A lot of emotions and strange feelings, like anxiety and worry; however today I feel peace and comfort instead. That's how the Lord works:)

My exhusband's grandma passed away last week and her funeral is today. She's been sick for a few years now, so we've known this day would come but it doesnt make it any easier.

My kids had a lot of questions... and I didnt have answers. They wanted to know if they would see her in heaven one day... if she was a believer b/c as a believer you know that this isnt the end, its just good bye for now. It was hard to tell them I didnt know.

It was hard for me b/c I am not part of that family anymore... and I was getting thrown in. I was to spend 4 hrs with them last night at the viewing. Some I havent see in years, or atleast since I've remarried. I was worried about people's reactions of me being there. I was worried about things they would say that my kids would hear.

So I prayed about it... and rather than having anxiety and worry, I was ok. People were nice, I was thanked for being there, it went as it should... being about Grandma Lloyd and not about a failed marriage.

Today we say goodbye to a spunky little woman. She wasnt a lady of many words, but you could tell her love for people. She worked until she was 83, she was strong, and stubborn. She will be missed.

The Book of Leviticus

2012-01-23T07:40:00.001-07:00

Leviticus
By Pastor Matt | January 22, 2012

In Leviticus we pick up three months after the Israelites deliverance from the grasp of Egyptian slavery and we find the emerging nation at the base of Mt. Sinai. They were a nomadic people in a barren land suddenly forced to live together, travel together, eat and sleep together as a people. For forty days the Lord dictated incredibly detailed law through Moses for His people. What follows is gruesome, bloody and often times downright weird. God laid out boundaries for His people. They needed guidelines for hygiene and health. Rules for worship and community. This was all new for them and God laid out a groundwork for His people to prosper. A practical "field guide" for community and worship.

First we recognize that God desires His people to be set apart. The Israelites were supposed to look different, act different, worship different, and spend their time in different ways than the nations around them. It was an integral part of their calling. Gods people were challenged to rise above easy conformity to carve out a culture of Godliness and health.

The manifestations aren’t quite the same, but Christians have the same calling today. To be the light of Jesus in a dark world, aliens and strangers in a place that so desperately wants us to think like they think, talk like they talk, and live like they live.

Once we understand this truth we soon realize we aren’t set apart enough. The law points out our insufficiencies. Even if the law were just a set of external rules, we still couldn’t keep them perfectly and then Jesus asks us to examine our hearts! That is a "whole 'nother can of worms"! We just can’t measure up to following the law or Christ’s example that has been set before us..

Leviticus still reminds us today that God is serious about community, serious about health (spiritually, physically, emotionally) and most of all serious about holiness. But the problem I always find with holiness is as soon as I try to be holy I soon become convinced it is impossible. There are too many rules. Too many stipulations. Too many layers to my brokenness and corruption. If you are anything like me we soon realize we need help! We need a Savior. Holiness is what God desires. But holiness is what we cannot achieve. That is why Jesus is everything to us. That is why everything we live, teach and preach boils down to grace.

Could it be that, in ignoring Leviticus as a whole today, we forget how awesome grace is? That somehow we forget we are the same lost group of people desperate for a new way to live, a new way to experience God, a new way to fulfill the desires of our hearts.

Only in Christ can we find rest from the law and a new identity that really sets us apart. Yes, the law is a good thing – it makes us realize how much Christ had to overcome on our behalf. Sure, we’ll still fall, but those failures should only remind us to run back to the grace of Jesus. How beautifully Christ not only supersedes the law, but fulfills all of its demands for us. This is what it means to be Christians. Not religious parrots strutting about in arrogance speaking of our own holiness but ugly, broken people who have been healed and restored by the power of grace, the power of the cross, the power of Jesus.

Daily Suggested Reading in Leviticus 1/23/12 - 1/28/12
Monday 1/23 - Leviticus 1-4
Tuesday 1/24 - Leviticus 5-8
Wednesday 1/25 - Leviticus 9-12
Thursday 1/26 - Leviticus 16-19
Friday 1/27 - Leviticus 20-23
Saturday 1/28 - Leviticus 24-27

Friday Confessions

2012-01-20T07:17:00.004-07:00

I confess... I am SORE! Yesterday we did lower body and my thights hurt... today we did upper body and I can barely move my arms.

I confess... I was lazy last night... I didnt do anything, I laid around. It was a free for all for dinner (which is Drew's favorite anyhow).

I confess... in my laziness I didnt check Drew's homework. Only to find out he didnt do it when he told me he did. Guess who's doing homework this morning before school?

I confess... I am enjoying the gym. It's kicking my butt and I hope to see some progress soon. Getting on the scale and having it go UP when I am working out so hard and not eating any junk... but I believe this is my test for patience... because God knows I dont have any!

I confess... I am excited for tomorrow. My mom and I are celebrating Ty's birthday early b/c she will be out of town on her birthday and Ty will be with her dad the weekend before. We are going to get pedicures and lunch. Fun times!

I confess... I am unsure what to think about next Tuesday. My ex's grandma passed away and that's the day of her funeral. My ex hasnt really come out and said what he wants to do with the kids so finally I said "Well, you have two choices... either I bring them to the funeral and you take them the rest of the afternoon to the graveside and the reception or I get to hang out with you and your family all day to support my kids".... Looks like I am hanging out all day with my kids and my ex and his family. Will be interesting...

What are you confessing today?

Tag, I'm It!

2012-01-19T07:59:00.001-07:00

Becca from http://www.everydaylifes.com tagged me... so I'll play along :)

Post these rules.
1. You must post 11 random things about yourself.
2. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post.
3. Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer.
4. Go to their blog and tell them that you've tagged them.
*No stuff in the tagging section about "you are tagged if you are reading this." Legitimately tag 11 people!!

#1-

Yes, I live in Utah, but am not Mormon
I have a white tattoo on my wrist
I have 3 kids; two are mine, one is his.
I go to an awesome church. The Genesis Project, www.genesisutah.com
I LOVE coffee
I am on a quest to get fit
I enjoy spending time with my hubby on the back of our Harley
I am going to Guatemala in May on a mission's trip
I am high risk for breast cancer and fight daily to never be diagnosed (although will be prepared if the time ever comes)
I love getting pedicures, going on Saturday
I have a new love of photography, thanks to the camera I got for Christmas.

#2-

If you had only 24 hours to live, what would you do? Spend time with all my family and friends. Make sure they know how much I love them.
What Is one song that discribes your life? Hmmm... one that stands out to me is The Stand by Hillsong United... "I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned..."
Are you good at making new friends? Online yes, in person it takes a minute
Where did you grow up? South Bend, Indiana
What is the silliest prank you ever played on someone? I'm not much of a prankster... but I am doing an awesome suprise for my daughter in 2 wks that could be viewed as a prank. (more details to come)
If you could have a $10,000 shopping spree to one store, which store would it be and how long would it take you to spend the $10,000? Probably Target... clothes, electronics, books, house goods... I could do some damage!
Do you exercise regularly? As of last week, yes
Who would you want to play you in the movie about your life? Julia Roberts maybe?
Who is your celebrity crush male/female? Bradley Cooper is Hot!
Do you exercise? Didnt I answer this at #7?
What is the weirdest thing you will ever admit to having done in the past? Hmmm... weird. Danced on a piano? Puked off a patio? Hell, I dont know... I think I did a lot of weird stuff in my "previous life". LOL

#3-

1. Who do you admire most and why?
2. What did you want to be when you grew up?
3. What is your favorite beverage?
4. Dogs or Cats?
5. What is your least favorite excersise to do?
6. What is one thing you have done that you aren't proud of?
7. If you could do 3 things on your bucket list tomorrow, what would they be?
8. If you could go on a trip anywhere, where would you go?
9. What is your favorite book?
10. What is your favorite candy bar?
11. If you could tell someone from your past one thing, what would you say?

#4-

1. http://wanibug.blogspot.com/
2. http://confessionsfromanimplusiveaddict.blogspot.com/
3. http://christaandlogan.blogspot.com/
4. http://lonetater.blogspot.com/
5. http://theirondaisywrites.blogspot.com/
6. http://happinessisajourneyforjanna.blogspot.com/
7. http://summer-summersstoryafamilysjourney.blogspot.com/
8. http://www.ourdandelionwishes.com/
9. http://gilberteschler.blogspot.com/
10. http://crystalleblanc.blogspot.com/
11. http://marycateutah.blogspot.com/

Weigh In Wednesday

2012-01-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

Well... I'm up about a pound from last Wednesday. Muscle weighs more, right? I can't believe with my healthy eating and 5 days of working out that it's anything else. That's ok... I'm not looking for a quick fix, but a healthy change. I was able to do 3 more mins on the elliptical than yesterday, that's progress :)

Hello Fitness! Goodbye Donuts!

2012-01-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

I think I mentioned before that I joined a gym last week... I did it for various reasons. I don't want to miss out on opportunities while on my missions trip to Guatemala b/c I am too out of shape to hike the mountains. Second, I didn't like how clothes are fitting anymore... or how I look without them. Too many ripples and rolls for my liking. Honestly, I really don't have that much to lose though... maybe 10-15 lbs, so its more toning I guess. The third reason I am doing this is b/c my darling husband has been ~~asked~~, I mean, ORDERED by the doctor to exercise and lose weight. He has high BP and needs to lose about 50lbs to lower his risk of a stroke. (in addition to this, he quit chewing about a month ago, yay!)

I need to take a before picture so I can show an after picture later... but being that my looks aren't my biggest reason for this, I haven't done it yet and hesitating on posting any. I just want to be healthy. I want to continue to lower my very high risk for breast cancer. I want to grow old with my husband and kids... so I am doing this for my family mostly.

We met with the personal trainer yesterday morning to go over our goals and make a plan. Both of us are on the same workout plan (his reps and sets are just different than mine) so we can do everything together. We went back today to try it all out and I think the elliptical tried to kill me... but I did what I needed to do and feel good about it.

I am getting rid of junk food at my house... and doing my best to eat better and make a conscious choice in what goes in my mouth. The trainer said that 2x a week its ok to splurge b/c then your body doesn't plateau... so we aren't weeding everything out, just making a change to be better over all.

Not too hard, just need to stay motivated :)

Book of Exodus Devotional

2012-01-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

The Genesis Project: Life Project Part 2: Exodus

Pastor Matt Roberts
At the end of the book of Genesis we find the budding nation of Israel fleeing famine and drought to Egypt under the leadership of Joseph. The 12 sons of Israel were welcomed with open arms, a party was thrown in their honor and it looked as if Egypt offered every possibility for a great new life! Isn't it funny how time can change everything?

When we pick back up with the story of Israel we find the party is over! 430 years later Egypt was a very different place than the hospitable nation under Josephs rule. Soon after Josephs death the nation of Israel was enslaved to the throne of Egypt's Pharaoh. Isn't it interesting that there was no great battle, that there was no invading army in the middle of the night, not even the slightest hint of a fight. Israel had walked into their slavery with hopes of a better life, a new beginning, a reinvention of themselves. But slowly the lights of Egypt faded and what was once a new and promising land soon turned into a prison of long days, hard nights and a complete lack of freedom. Israel had lost control and probably had a hard time telling you exactly when that happened.

Even in the depths of despair God began to unfold a plan to deliver His people from their desperate circumstances. No matter how poorly Israel was treated they seemed to prosper. So much so their growing numbers alarmed the insecure Pharaoh. A decree was set forth to have every male Jewish child killed on the spot. Horrible? Yes, but God was working. A baby boy named Moses was born. The hand of God saved the life of this slave child and delivered him into the house of Pharaoh. The stage seemed to be set for another Joseph to rise to power in Egypt and deliver his people. But God had other plans.

With everything going for Moses; power, influence and riches. We find him at 80 years old a murderer on the run in the middle of the wilderness not realizing any of the potential his early life had seemed to promise. Moses 1st 80 years was a story of what might have been. What if he would have made different choices? What if he hadn't lost his temper that fateful day? What if he could have made a difference for all of those hurting people back in Egypt. Had he blown his one chance? It seemed as if he had. For now he was an old man with no power, no influence, and not 2 pennies to rub together.

Then there was a burning bush. It was not just another brush fire in the dry and arid wilderness. This fire was different. It burned brighter than anything Moses had seen before, it seemed to permeate the darkness of Moses' wandering life and bring to life things inside of him that he believed were long dead. Moses' encountered the presence of a living God and that day through that bush God spoke to Moses and his life would never be the same again! All of a sudden a man whose tomorrows always looked like today was consumed with the passion of a freedom fighter, the direction of a visionary and the purpose of a man confidant in a promise that was bigger than anything he had ever known before.

Prior to Gods calling Moses' life never seemed to gain any momentum, 80 years of walking in circles physically, emotionally and spiritually. But things changed! Within months Moses' was leading an entire nation out of slavery in Egypt, through the parted waters of the Red Sea and towards a promised land of hope, heritage and healing.

But the journey wasn't an easy one. 250 miles is all that separates Egypt from Israel and the journey took 40 years! That's a snail's pace of just over 6 miles a year, well that's assuming they walked in a straight line and we know that's not how journeys look. There were starts and stops, impassioned pleas and temper tantrums, affirmations of loyalty and coups, laughter and tears, life and death. After 40 years you would have thought Moses' would have quit a dozen times over (he tried many times!), what kept him going? What fueled his desire to keep walking through the wilderness even when it seemed impossible? What tied him to a people who were always grumbling and complaining? What sustained Moses from the beauty of a burning bush through the hell of the wilderness? A divine promise. He was heading somewhere only God had seen, a place that far exceeded his wildest expectations. Moses knew that trials and setbacks were temporary holdups to a surefire promise. Without a promised land in front of him the wilderness would have been a very hopeless place.

Just like Moses God has spoke promises into your life. It is easy for us to understand the awe, wonder and excitement of standing at that bush barefoot and bewildered. We have to hold on to those moments, guard the promises of God in our hearts. Sometimes that is the very strength that sustains us in the wilderness of life. May we not lose sight of the truth that we are a chosen people with divine destination! God's promises to you are just as sure as his promises to Moses. Don't quit walking towards all God has called you to. Discouraging circumstances, dead end roads, lost relationships and angry mobs all pale in comparison to God's plan for you.

Suggested Reading For 1/16 - 1/21
Monday 1/16 - Exodus 1-6

Tuesday 1/17 - Exodus 7-13

Wednesday 1/18 - Exodus 14-19

Thursday 1/19 - Exodus 20-27

Friday 1/20 - Exodus 28 - 31

Saturday 1/21 - Exodus 32 - 40

My White Ink Tattoo

2012-01-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

I've had a request for a picture of my white ink tattoo... keep in mind, it's still healing and a small spot needs to be touched up :)

Infinite Love

Friday Confessions

2012-01-13T07:37:00.002-07:00

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I confess... it's been an emotionally draining week. I didn't realize that his police officer's death would impact me as it did. I even made the news for a 2 second clip of me crying in front of my work on the funeral procession route. Seeing his casket on top of the firetruck pulled at my heart, but seeing the police officers following behind, with their lights on, and wiping tears from their eyes, that's what got me.

I confess... it's been a physically draining week. We joined the gym. I need to get in shape for my mission trip to Guatemala, Mister Husband needs to get in shape to better his health. I've gone daily since we got the membership... I cant do a whole lot b/c of my neck, but I've been riding the bike. 35 mins gets me 12+ miles on the bike. My legs feel like Jell-o but I'm making progress. We meet with a personal trainer on Monday to find out what else I can do that's low impact.

I confess... my daughter is babysitting a co-worker's baby today. I'm a little nervous. Not sure why b/c she is uber-responsible and good with kids, but all the same... little nervous.

I confess... joining the gym is giving me a reason to shop. I already got new sneakers... off to Old Navy today to get some new pants and a sports bra. Nothing like having your shorts go up your butt while you are on the bike!

I confess... I got a white ink tattoo on my wrist. Mister Husband has a matching one on his arm. I really like it. It's an infinity symbol with the word "Love" in it. We did it for God's infinate love and the love we have in our marriage.

A Photo Tribute to Ogden's Fallen Officer

2012-01-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the privilege to witness the funeral parade for one of our officers who was killed in the line of duty last week while serving a drug warrant. What a humbling and emotional experience that was. The outpouring of community kindness was overwhelming for all.

Here are some pictures I took throughout the day...

My prayers are with his family and friends, along with the other officers who were injured. I admire what you do on a daily basis to protect and serve. For that I thank you.

Farewell Officer Jared Francom- Ogden Police Department

2012-01-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

Picture from KSL.com

I've been keeping up on this story because it has shook our community and I feel it has brought out the goodness in people. Everyone is coming together and doing funraisers and different things for the family... getting involved in ribbon making and flag holding as his funeral procession tours the city before he recides at his final resting place. My work is allowing us to go outside as they pass today to honor our fallen officer, how humbling this will be.

I was on my way to work this morning and passed the mortuary where his viewing was last night. I glanced over and there was a dim light in the lobby and at the doorway to the left, I saw another officer in his dress uniform standing guard. It hit me then... I was SOBBING in my car. I dont know this man... but I do know the impact his has left on our community. I know the protection we had due to his faithful service. I know our city is heartbroken with his loss.

I am imagining him in Heaven and the Lord saying " 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matthew 25:23)

Officer Francom, thank you for your work here on Earth. You were committed, you served and protected, you gave it your all. Rest in Peace.

The Book of Genesis

2012-01-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

This year, my church is diving into the bible one book at a time... Sunday we started with the book of Genesis and here is the devotional my pastor put together in case you want to follow along. I hope to be able to post these weekly. Enjoy!

Genesis Project Life Week 1 Devotional : Genesis

The book of Genesis is all about God's story of Covenant lived out in the lives of men and women. In the beginning we see a Creator with a passion for relationship, so much so that He created us in His own image and gave him the gift of choice. What a risk to take for an all-powerful God. To create a being that is so intimately tied to you and give him the ability to hate, reject, and walk away. But real relationships cannot exist outside of that choice. Love is all about choice and God chose to love us! How would we respond to that selfless of an act?

Well, we know how Adam and Eve responded, they wanted more! Didn't they have it all? A beautiful garden they could call their own, all the resources and luxuries of creation, daily walks in the cool of the garden with God himself. Sounds like Heaven on Earth.....it was. But it wasn't enough. Or at least it didn't seem to be when the serpent made his infamous sales pitch.

Of all the spoils of the garden there was ONE tree God asked Adam not to eat from, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Can you imagine how awesome it would be to not know evil? To not be plagued by its taunting voice? To be free of its scars, its baggage, its worry? This was the innocence Adam and Eve enjoyed. Living life naked and happy with no idea of the world of horrible possibilities that laid outside the presence of God.

But the serpent was clever, "Did God really say 'you must not eat from ANY tree in the garden'?" Here was the beginning of a long line of liars who would try to rob, kill and destroy by adding to God's Word. It is just like our enemy to try to use legalism to make God's Words sound ridiculous. The truth was God's lone commandment was to preserve and protect the innocence of his beloved creation. To protect them from a sure death. "Surely You will NOT die" said the serpent, Gods word was clear and absolute and the allure of sin stood in direct opposition to it. Adam...Eve, what will you choose? Who will you serve?

That day in the garden Sin won. Adam and Eves eyes were opened to the horrors of a life away from God. Sin replaced the intimacy they once lived in. Toil replaced paradise. No more walks with God. No more innocence. No more life as God created us live. Sin was unleashed upon a perfect creation and the world would never be the same.

The next 47 chapters of Genesis walk us through the implications of this mighty fall. Death, murder, destruction, debauchery, lies, laziness, lust. Sin was multiplying as rapidly as man. But God didn't quit on us! Maybe He should have. This wasn't his mess to clean up it was ours. He clearly warned us that the wages of sin was DEATH. Yet in spite of our rebellion God continued to peruse men. In spite of our atrocities God continued to spare us from complete destruction.

He continued to call out men like Noah who were still willing to walk with Him and offer salvation when He could have just ended it all and put humanity out of its misery. God's heart

for relationship beat on. He made a covenant with Abraham that was passed down through Isaac and Jacob and even when they broke that covenant God upheld His promises. God's heart for relationship beat on. From old women past their prime, to deceivers and liars, to young shepherd boys in colorful coats God's plan to rescue his fallen creation marched on.

Time after time, generation after generation God continues to seek and save men and women from the curse of sin. And time after time, generation after generation we continue to choose that same old tree of sin and rebellion. We find ourselves naked and broken because of that choice and there is the God of love, actively waiting on His creation, His people, His Sons and Daughters to come home. And He fights for us, calls to us, perfectly loves us the entire way!
Pastor Matt

Suggested Reading for 1/9/12 - 1/15/12

Monday - Genesis 1-4, 6-9 &11

Tuesday - Genesis 12-19

Wednesday - Genesis 20-26

Thursday - Genesis 27-33

Friday - Genesis 37-41

Saturday - Genesis 42-45, 47-50

Guatemala Meeting- Fundraising

2012-01-10T07:29:00.000-07:00

We had our first meeting last night for our mission trip to Guatemala. We have 21 people who are going with us. Our groups has a variety of ages and backgrounds, so its going to be neat to see everyone's perspective while we are there. This trip is the pilot trip for our church, so we are going to be doing a lot of videos and pictures to show the people at home what we did and get them excited for other opportunities. I can't wait!

We are in the fundraising stages of our planning. The trip costs $2500 to go plus supplies for while we are there (seeds, gardening tools, etc). We are going to do a Hunger Dinner on Feb 4th at the church that we are selling tickets for. We talked about waitressing for tips at Golden Corral. We talked about selling pizza or candy bars. We have a lot of ideas, it will be neat to see how God uses them.

One thing that keeps coming up is the fact that we need to be in shape. There is a lot of hiking up mountains involved. I am going to be going to the gym today to sign up. It's the motivation I need. I've been putting it off long enough and I want to be in the best shape possible so I can focus on serving and not worrying about pulled muscles and huffing-puffing up the mountain. I'm not a big excersise person, pray for me!

My Little Beauty

2012-01-06T10:02:00.000-07:00

For Christmas I got a new camera... and it's kinda fancy and I am trying to figure out how to use it. My daughter, who normally hides or cover her face when I have the camera out, decided she wanted a photo shoot to "help" me learn my camera. Thanks dear!

Here are some of the pictures I took of her... my little beauty.

(Ty age 11 with a picture of herself when she was 6 or 7)

Loss in our Community

2012-01-05T12:30:00.001-07:00

I woke up this morning to a lot of facebook messages regarding an officer shooting where I live.... then I saw it on the news... and heard it made national news... then I found out that of the 6 people injured/killed I know people who know atleast half of them. So very sad... so heartbreaking.

Here is the news article: http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=18748705&title=1-officer-killed-5-injured-in-ogden-shootout

Father God, I come to you on behalf of the officers who were shot... for those injured and the one who lost his life. I pray for their healing. I pray they feel comfort and support from You. I pray for their families and friends, I can't imagine what they are going through. They make a daily sacrifice for us and I am so grateful for their service. Lord, none of this makes sense. It's heartbreaking, but I know that you have a plan for all this and I trust in You. I say these things in Jesus' name, amen.

Guatemala with VisionTrust

2012-01-02T20:06:00.001-07:00

I feel like God is calling me to something big... Something more.

A few months back, I learned about a mission's trip to Guatemala and kept coming up with reasons not to go... But now things keep changing and moving in the right direction so I've made the decision to go. It's for a week in May and were going to build gardens at 40 Mayan houses to help them be more inacially responsible for themselves. They will be able to take the veggies from their gardens, make it into salsa, and sell it at market to support their families. In addition to the construction, they're setting up soccer matches and pampering parties where we can share the love of Jesus with them. What an awesome opportunity!!

If you feel led, I'm accepting donations to fund the trip. It's going to cost about $2500 to go. It is 100% tax deductible and sent to VisionTrust in my name. ( i can get you the needed info) If now isnt a time to support me financially, I'd love to have your prayers.

I'm so excited... Nervous... Happy... I can't wait!!

GP Caroling

2011-12-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

The other day I get a text from my friend who is a worship leader at our church. She asked if I'd like to go caroling with her at a residential treatment center for adults with disabilities. I told her I'd love to and packed up the kids and off we went. We had a bigger turn out of caroler's than expected which is good b/c the entire room was packed with residents... it was a wonderful time. It was heartwarming to see these people's faces when we sang to them. This is what Christmas is about. We were blessed by being a blessing :)

Christmas Fun!

2011-12-19T13:48:00.000-07:00

Egg nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot chocolate. Blah to Egg Nog.
Does Santa wrap presents or just set them under the tree? Wraps
Colored lights or tree/house or white? White Lights
Do you hang mistletoe? Nope.
When do you put your decorations up? Usually by the first weekend in December, but we got a new tree this year from the Jubilee so we put it up the weekend of Thanksgiving.
What is your favorite holiday dish? I love green bean casserole, but we are doing Christmas Breakfast this year so I am not thinking that will work.
Favorite holiday memory as a child? Christmas eve with my grandparents
When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I am not sure... but we are believers in Santa, no matter how old we are or what we know.
Do you open a gift on Christmas eve? Nope
How do you decorate your Christmas tree? Ours is all fancy with little owls
Snow! Love it or dread it? Hate it unless it comes on Christmas eve and leaves at the end of Christmas day
Can you ice skate? Not gracefully.
Do you remember your favorite gift? Probably the doll house my Poppie made me.
What's the most important thing about the holidays for you? Remembering the reason for the season... doing church activities and being with family
What is your favorite Holiday dessert? Cookies!
What is your favorite holiday tradition? Handing out treats to people working on Christmas eve, at the hospital, gas station, police station, etc.
What tops your tree? a wooden star
Do you prefer giving or receiving? I like giving... getting is nice, but I love to see my gift bless someone else.
Candy canes: Yuck or yum? normal plain ones are good... but these fancy ones, not so much
Favorite Christmas show? Not big into Christmas shows
Saddest Christmas song? Not big into Christmas music
What is your favorite Christmas song? Not big into Christmas music

Merry Christmas!

Friday Confessions 12/16/11

2011-12-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

I confess... that I took Wednesday off work and got my shopping done. I got my nails done, got a pedicure, went to lunch with my hubby and his awesome mama. I got all my wrapping done too!

I confess... Wednesday night I went to my son's first Royal Rangers Merit Badge Ceremony. I am so stinking proud of him!! He earned 4/5 possible badges, only missing the other b/c we werent there due to my surgery. It is so cool to see him growing into this little man of God.

I confess... speaking of being a man of God, last night Drew and I were driving and we saw an ambulance and he says "I sure hope someone's ok"... and next thing I know, he folds his hands and says "Dear God, please take care of whoever needs that ambulance. Amen".

I confess... My daughter has had an amazing basketball season. She has come such a long ways since her first game. I am very proud of her accomplishments. She is going to try out for the team at the Jr High team next year, but we had a "Come to Jesus" meeting last night regarding her grades and how they wouldnt let her on the team with her math scores the way they are... hopefully that opens her eyes!

I confess... I am looking forward to a weekend with my hubby. We may be getting a new tattoo :)

I'm Going To Confess Anyways...

2011-12-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

I just don't have anywhere to link up to right now :)

I Confess... that in all my years of working in a call center and/or office, I have dreaded the thought of burning popcorn in the microwave. It's been a fear of mine. I am so concious of it that I leave a lot of unpopped kernals in the bag. Until yesterday. Yesterday I got distracted by someone and although my popcorn wasnt black and didnt catch on fire, it was a little more well done than I would have cared for and it still smelled a bit.

I Confess... I have had the LONGEST week ever. I am not sure what the deal is. I am just glad today is Friday.

I Confess... I have bought a lot of Christmas presents that are shoved into hiding spaces, but I dont fully remember what all I've gotten. I have Wednesday off to pull it all out, start wrapping, and finish up shopping.

I Confess... I love my job. I have an awesome employer. I am so blessed.

Gone with the Wind

2011-12-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

Nothing of mine was gone with the wind, but I know people who lost windows, fences, swap coolers, shingles, trees, etc. Yesterday in Utah we had winds over 100mph. That is a Category 2 Hurricane wind... in Utah. It was the weirdest thing.

Here are some pictures from the news:

I haven't heard of anyone being seriously injured, thank God for that. I know there are a lot of insurance claims taking place though!

My New Favorite

2011-12-01T07:09:00.000-07:00

I found a new favorite over the weekend... not a pair of shoes or a comfy pair of jeans, mind you.

I found Cinnamon M&M's. OMGosh! They are delicious. They are not "in your face" flavorful, but they are tasty. You can only get them at Target during the holidays. Right now they are 2 bags for $5. I am going to stock up... Yum!

Thankful

2011-11-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

I have so much to be thankful for... so many blessings to count. I am thankful for my family... my parents, my husband, my kids (in no specific order). I am thankful for my Salvation and the cross. Thank you, Jesus. I am thankful for a good job that allows me to provide for my family and help others. I am thankful for my relativly good health and for great health insurance when its not so good. I am thankful for having a roof over my head, food to eat, and a car to get me to where I need to go. I am thankful for a furnace and water heater that work. I am thankful for coffee every morning. I am thankful for amazing friends who are like family to me. I am thankful for the snuggle time I get with my kids. I am thankful for a husband with an open heart. I am thankful for the advice I get from my wonderful mother. I am thankful for so much. I am blessed.

Have a happy thanksgiving everyone!

Is it the weekend yet?

2011-11-16T12:36:00.000-07:00

This has been the longest week I've had in a long time. A lot of busy stuff at work. Some launches and tight deadlines and other things. I feel mentally exhausted, is it the weekend yet?

Friday Confessional

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

I confess... this has been a hell week. I am exhausted. It has been so busy.

I confess... that as much as I am happy that my sister is getting married today, I am not sure how 85+ people are going to fit in my parents house.

I confess... my son is a goof. He told me today that he is going to sleep in his clothes at night so he doesnt have to waste time in the morning getting ready.

I confess... I paid for a latte this morning that isnt very good and I am kicking myself for spending the money on it.

I confess... The body heat between me and hubby wasn't good enough this week to stay warm and I ended up having to call the HVAC guy b/c our furnace wasnt working. Ends up being the thermostat and not the furnace, thank God.

I Am Blessed!

2011-11-10T07:12:00.000-07:00

I have so much to be thankful for... I have an amazing husband, great kids, a wonderful family, a fabulous church. Food on our table and a roof over our head. I have the opportunity to work in the kids ministry and help other's learn about Jesus. I am in good health, thankful for my neurosurgeon. I have a great job that I enjoy. I am grateful that I dont have to work for my salvation. I am thankful for having the freedom to worship where others do not.

Simply put, I am blessed.

Friday Confessional

2011-11-04T08:42:00.000-06:00

I Confess... this has been a really long week. I am a creature of habit and this weeks things have been thrown at me without notice and I dont do well in those situations.

I Confess... I am happy to be back teaching in the kids ministry at church. This week I was assigned to the 3-5th graders. Its a new program we just started in the past couple of months and I think I am going to like it.

I Confess... I am happy to have this weekend with my hubby. The last time we didnt have kids we were doing his dad's funeral planning. I am excited to just relax and snuggle.

I Confess... I want to go shopping. It could be dangerous. I need to go get money out of the ATM and pay cash when I go otherwise I may end up spending more than I want to. I just feel like I dont have any warm weather shirts/sweaters. We'll see...

I HATE lying... but I love the little liar.

2011-11-03T10:52:00.000-06:00

If I had to tell you one of the top 3 things I despise, it is lying. Just be honest with me and we'd get along a lot better. Being lied to gets me so worked up. It puts a weight on my heart. It irritates me like nothing other.

With that being said... I dont understand why my darling daughter feels the need to lie about the dumbest things. "Have you been texting boys?"... no.... "Did you clean your room?"... yes... "Did you turn in that paper at school?"... yes... when the correct answer was the opposite.

Last night I noticed her bangs looked shorter. I asked her if she cut them and she says "No". Hmmm... are you sure? They look shorter. "Well, I got a rubber band stuck in them last week and Angie had to cut it out". Well, Im pretty sure that I've seen your bangs since then and this doesnt look like a little bit, but whatever.

After dinner, she goes upstairs and messes with her hair some more and I notice it even more. I ask her again... still getting some BS answer and my irritation level is even higher now. After bible study, her hair is completely down and I see the chop job. I call her out on it again, "This is the last time I am going to ask you and I expect you to be honest with me...."

FINALLY she tells me that she didnt like them the other day and she cut them. Really? Was it that hard? Ugh! We discussed that lying isn't acceptable and wont be tolerated... so she is grounded yet again for lying. We talked about being responsible and asking for help. We talked about how if she came to me and told me what she wanted to do and we talked about it before she does something how it has a better outcome... but even if she did it on her own and she confessed when I first asked, it would have a different outcome. Its the lying that got her in trouble.

She was pretty upset.... I kept my cool. I didnt yell, I didnt swear, but I did voice my disappointment and I think that was worse for her than me yelling and screaming about it. We discussed it in a biblical sense and she prayed for help to stop lying. I told her that regardless of me being upset, I love her unconditionally and we will get past this but we need to be honest with each other.

If we are already lying about dumb things at 11, I need prayer to make it through the teenage years. This is stressing me out already!

Operation Christmas Child

2011-10-31T07:56:00.000-06:00

Hey friends,

This year I am participating in a Christmas activity to fill shoe boxes with gifts for children in 3rd world countries. These shoe boxes will contain school supplies, small toys, and hygiene kits for children from 2-14. This is a world wide organization and this year my church is the drop-off spot for all of northern Utah. The shoe boxes can be provided or you can use your own shoebox, or walmart has plastic shoebo...x sized bins that will work and filled they will cost $7 to send, plus the cost of whatever it takes to fill it with the gifts. We have a goal to send out 10,000 filled boxes by mid-November which would be the largest shipment for this area if we achieve it.

If this is something you are interested in participating in, please let me know. We'd love your help and support! However, please don't feel any obligation to help... I just think its a neat idea and wanted to share the opportunity to those who may want to.

Feel free to go to www.samaritanspurse.org/occ for more info. Let me know if there are any questions.

Be blessed by being a blessing!

2011 Fall Family Pictures

2011-10-31T07:53:00.000-06:00

Friday Confessional

2011-10-28T07:13:00.000-06:00

* I hurt my back last night... it was so stupid. We were at Ty's Economic's Fair and the kids behind her had a game to shoot hoops. I had my back to them and the ball hit me on the top of the head causing me to jump and I twisted my back funny. Ty was worried about my neck, but I knew it was my lower back that just got hurt. Dang it!!

* I dont want to spend the $40 to go to the chiropractor...and that's the only thing that helps despite going to get injections, which didnt work for my neck so I doubt they'd work for my lower back.

* I am torn on going to a Halloween party tonight. Its a dear friend who's putting it on for the kids, but its at her fiance (who I am not fond of)'s ex-wife's house. Uhhhh AKWARD?!?

* I am going to a memorial service tomorrow of a man from my church. He passed away Saturday morning of a heart attack. This man was truly a man of God... my experiences with him were during "Wanna Give Away Week" where we did nonstop community service projects and when he came up to the hospital before surgery to pray with me. He will be missed, but I know he's serving up some BBQ with Jesus now :)

Random Ramblings 10/27/11

2011-10-27T10:23:00.000-06:00

* I just realized that about 10 people that I know or know of have passed away in the past month. Some are people dear to me, other are aquaintences. Little overwhelming...

* I am tired of hearing of people's lives being hurt by pornography. Relationships damaged, family's torn apart. I pray that these people fight against Satan in these battles. It's sick, disgusting, and an addition.

* I am tired. Like, go to bed at 530pm tired.

* I need to learn to bite my tongue b/c I some times say some hurtful things when I get upset. I don't mean to, but emotion gets the best of me at times. It's something I dont like about myself, but am working on.

* I need more coffee... right this second. I think it goes along with my tiredness. My cup never seems to stay full enough for my liking.

* I have seen a different side to my husband this week. I've seen him heartbroken and tearful at the loss of his father. Even though we knew it was coming, it was still very hard. I am glad to see this side of Bryan, rather than having him bottle it up. Seeing this has grown my love for him even more.

RIP Robert M Williams

2011-10-25T12:38:00.000-06:00

Robert M. Williams, age 73, died October 19, 2011. He was born March 12, 1938 in SLC, UT to John and Donna Williams.

Robert attended South High School until he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. Robert served in the USMC until 1968, attaining the rank of staff sergeant. On August 23, 1958 Robert married Arlene M. Clayton in Inglewood, CA.

Robert lived in Salt Lake City and worked at Western General Dairies until retiring in 1986. He continued driving truck until 1989. Robert loved to travel with his wife Arlene, playing cards with his friends, camping, fishing, and hunting. He loved to go to Wendover and Las Vegas.

Robert was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Robert will be especially remembered as a wonderful husband, caring father, and fun-loving grandfather and great-grandfather.

Survivors include his wife Arlene, their four children and spouses Kent and (Patti) , Joy and (Kevin), Danny and (Renee), Bryan and (Lisa), 11 grandchildren -Heather, Brandon, Logan, Steven, Aaron, Brooke, Levi, Austin, Taylor, Ty, and Drew, 3 great-grandchildren -Jaxson, Autumn, and Aksel, and two brothers Jim (DeeAnn) and Darryl (Elva) all residing in Utah. Robert was preceded in death by his son Steven James Williams, and grand-daughter Heidi Marie, as well as his Dad John Williams and Mother Donna Williams.

Services will be held at Larkin Mortuary at 260 E. South Temple on Monday, October 24, 2011. Viewing will be from 9:00-10:30 with service at 11:00. Burial will be at Wasatch Lawn and Memorial Park immediately following the service and is open to family and friends.

Many thanks to the staff at Garden Terrace, Larkin Mortuary, and Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park for their help and support.

Courageous- The Movie

2011-10-17T12:12:00.000-06:00

http://www.courageousthemovie.com/themovie

A-Maz-Ing!

This movie was a must see... It was in your face, look at your life, and be a leader in your family kind of movie. It was a every day kind of situation... things went wrong... people messed up... God stepped in and people's lives changed. I have goosebumps thinking about it.

The acting wasn't great and I think the actors lips were out of sync with the words, but the story was well worth it.

It made me look at the roles we play in our family as parents. It made me think of how I interact with my children. It made me think of how I interact with others around me. It talked about being bold and courageous. It had a group of men making a resolution to be more Godly men, husband, and fathers. I took the whole family and there were times my hubby had tears in his eyes. This movie was touching... I think everyone could take something away from this.

Casting Crowns just released a new song called "Courageous" and the lyrics go like this:

We were made to be courageous

We were made to lead the way
We could be the generation
That finally breaks the chains

We were made to be courageous
We were made to be courageous

We were warriors on the front lines
Standing, unafraid
But now we're watchers on the sidelines
While our families slip away

Where are you, men of courage?
You were made for so much more
Let the pounding of our hearts cry
We will serve the lord

We were made to be courageous
And we're taking back the fight
We were made to be courageous
And it starts with us tonight

The only way we'll ever stand
Is on our knees with lifted hands
Make us courageous
Lord, make us courageous

This is our resolution
Our answer to the call
We will love our wives and children
We refuse to let them fall

We will reignite the passion
That we buried deep inside
May the watchers become warriors
Let the men of god arise

We were made to be courageous
And we're taking back the fight
We were made to be courageous
And it starts with us tonight

The only way we'll ever stand
Is on our knees, with lifted hands
Make us courageous
Lord, make us courageous

Seek justice
Love mercy
Walk humbly with your god

Time to Confess!

2011-10-14T07:20:00.000-06:00

I confess... I spent a lot of money about 8 weeks ago to get eyelash extensions. I liked them, but didnt LOVE them with an exception of a couple of days. They are a lot of work to keep up. I got the OK from the Dr to go on the motorcycle and they were flying everywhere, even with sunglasses on. I felt like spiders were dancing from my eye lids. Yeah, that's not going to work. I am starting to get a cold or allergies and my eyes itch. Well, I rubbed a chunk of my eyelashes off last night... which resulted in me removing all of them.

I confess... my eyelasshes now look like my mom's did when her hair was coming back from chemo. Probabaly wont be doing that again.

I confess... I am stressed about money. My pay check is now back to normal after being off from my surgery, but I have big plans. My big plans involve selling a townhouse and buying a house... my stress comes from the fact that the townhouses near us arent selling for what I owe. It's going to be an act of God for this to all play out... but I believe in miracles. If we are supposed to move, God will provide a way for that to happen. If not, we are meant to stay put and wait for something else.

I confess... I am not patient. That's where a lot of my stress comes from.

I confess... I am irritated with Utah movie theaters. I want to see "Courageous" and the only place its showing is down in West Jordan or West Valley or somewhere... over an hour away from me. Just because its a Christian movie means it has to only have one movie theater in the whole state? I dont get it.

I confess... I am so PROUD of my kids. We went to parent teacher conference and their teachers had great things to say about them. Drew is a hard worker, is a math wiz... Ty is at grade level now, and is fun to have in class. Thank God for wonderful teachers who are making such a difference in my kids lives.

Strides Against Breast Cancer 2011

2011-10-10T08:03:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, we did our annual Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in SLC. It's put on by American Cancer Society and its a 5 mile walk to raise funds to find a cure for breast cancer. My mom's work is a sponsor and because she is a 2x survivor they have her speak during the kick off each year. It's always neat to see the turnout and the impact on the community. We had family and friends join us and although it started out being chilly, it turned nice and we had a good time.

All my pictures are sideways... so I need to figure out what to do, it wont let me alter them...

The Dash Between The Dates

2011-10-05T09:34:00.000-06:00

I have gone to a couple funerals recently and have heard of other people losing their loved ones and it got me thinking about what people would say at my funeral.

I want the dash inbetween my birth and death date to be big. I want it to be full of experiences and memories. I want to be known for my loves, my friendships, my accomplishments. I want it to be full of memories of good times. I want it to be full of funny stories.

Yesterday my dear friend said goodbye to her mother. It was unexpected and a complete shock to everyone. Her uncle and other family got up to speak of her mother and they talked about how "Vickey Loved"... how she loved her family, disabled kids, complete strangers, and her love for God. It was so touching.

When I pass away I would be honored to be discribed as "Lisa Loved"... and I am going to start living my life that way today!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month... get your mammogram!

2011-09-26T07:24:00.000-06:00

Ladies... this is a reminder to get your mammogram. I don't care if you think you are too busy, too poor, too- whatever. Get it done. Take your sister, mom, grandma, or neighbor with you too. This is serious business...

Last week I had my yearly mammogram.Yes, I am young but I am high risk so we do this yearly. I went in on Wednesday afternoon... chitchatting with the tech who was doing it... not thinking a lot and I hear "Something came up on your mammogram, we need you to stay for a while longer". Ok... this happens just about every time I get done. I have fibrous tissue and cysts. Something always shows up. Then I go back for another set of films... something is still there, but not as bad. Ok, that sounds better... I guess. Then they say they want to do a ultrasound... although they are sure nothing is going to show up on it... until something shows up on it and the next thing I know I am scheduled for a biopsy for a few days later.

On the way home, the hospital called me back and said they want to do an MRI before the biopsy so the next day I calm my claustrophobic nerves and go dangle my boobs from an MRI machine. Mind you, the people were awesome and they had music. I think I fell asleep... without Valium, mind you. Huge victory for me.

That evening the hospital calls me back again and said the specialist wants to meet with me Friday morning. Hmmm... maybe its not nothing this time... people always tell me things on the phone. I never have to go in. I spent a lot of time in prayer that evening.

Next morning I went in to the hospital to meet with the specialist who deals only with breast imaging. First thing he tells me is that I caused him heartburn and that he didn't get any sleep the night of my mammogram b/c he thought he was going to tell a 33 yr old mother that she had breast cancer.

He showed me the mammogram images and for not knowing what I was looking at, they looked ugly. It was a white spot of tissue that looked like it had spider legs. I asked him how he knew it was ok and he brought up my MRI and it was clear. If it was cancerous, it would have glowed a blue color.

He suggests I get mammograms done every 6 months now and an MRI once a year. Remember, I have been told in the past "Its a matter of WHEN you get breast cancer and not IF you get it"... so I am all about screening and prevention. If I do get a diagnosis, I want it early. I want a chance to fight it.

So for now... I am breathing a sigh of relief, although it doesn't stop me from my advocacy. Do self-checks, do mammograms, follow up with your doctors, raise funds to help find a cure... the Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk is on October 8th in the SLC area. If 1 out of 8 of us is going to get it, we cant just sit around and do nothing.

If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

2011-09-23T22:19:00.004-06:00

I have been struggling this week with something someone said to me... Without going too deep into it, someone who I consider somewhat close to me is upset with the way I worship Jesus. My music is too loud, my church is disrespectful, my prayers aren't right... That type of thing.

I've been in religion my whole life, but it wasn't until I was in relationship with Him that I figured out what Gods love really is. This isn't about traditions, set prayers, and being quiet. The bible says to make a joyful noise! This is about being head over heels in love with a Savior. This is being so filled with the holy spirit that it oozes out if you. This is having a light in you that attracts others to you b/c they want to hear the good news. This isn't sit in church for an hour on Sunday to get your quota in... This is live every moment in His presence, thanking Him with every breath, there is no end to prayer... Be in constant dialog with the Lord.

I went to worship tonight with a heavy heart. I've been through a lot this week... Some health issues, kid issues, then this friend problem and I just wanted rest. I keep replaying the conversation with her in my head... And it's tiring to me. I told her Im not going to apologize for my beliefs. I'm not going to tone down my worship to make her comfortable. I'm not going to stop my prayer requests... I'm not going to stop posting bible verses on Facebook. This is who I am. It's what I do.

We had a guest preacher tonight and he was so on fire for Jesus. He was captivating and the spirit reigned down. I felt all my burdens lifted. I felt peace in my soul. He talked about when you have Jesus in your heart you become a different person, a new person, and you live for Him. You are free in Him. I truly felt God speaking through this preacher tonight... I know that I stood up for what I believed in. I did what I needed to when my faith was questioned. I feel at peace now. I feel better...

Ill admit, Im human... Im hurt... And while I don't know the extent of the damage done to our friendship, i will do my best to forgive. I pray that God opens the eyes to her heart and lets her be open to things that are different to her. Let her be open to hearing the good news and may God use me as a vessel. Amen.

Some bible verses that come to mind:

"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let
God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.
Then you will learn to know
God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect."
Romans 12:2 (NLT)

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:
old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)

John 8:36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.(NIV)

Bad Homework Night

2011-09-22T08:22:00.000-06:00

So... yesterday the kids had early out. They were home by 130pm. The rule is work on homework, take out the dogs, no playing until everything is done. Ty didnt have any homework but Drew did (a math sheet and a spelling review). Ty said she will help Drew b/c I had a Dr appt and Drew had soccer as soon as I got home. Sounds great... it should all be done by the time I get back.

I call them on my way home from the Dr to tell Drew to get ready for soccer, but when I get there he isn's dressed... he was playing. The homework is on the counter, unfinished. Ty said he had a fit and she wasnt going to argue with him. Ugh!!! Fine... got him dressed and we would finish the 2nd page of math and do the spelling when we got back.

After soccer, I had him sit down while dinner was being made and he was just all over the place. Just do the damn math already. He was struggling to focus so I had him eat and Ty was helping him with spelling words... the whole thing ended in disaster and we all gave up and all of us went to our rooms.

I went in to talk to him about 10 mins later and he is sound asleep with the TV off and the lights on. I am wondering if the homework meltdown is b/c he was too tired. I prayed over him for a while and I went to bed.

I went in to wake him up this morning so we could try to finish what we started... and he looks at me all funny and said "Its already done". WHAT!?! No... it cant be done, there was an entire page to do. He said that he did it in his room. I looked at it and sure enough... he finished it in his room. What took fighting over for 5 hrs was done in 10 mins by himself. Lord have mercy!

I sure love that boy... but I think he caused some of my hair to go grey last night :)

Three Years Ago... and I still "I Do"

2011-09-20T10:51:00.001-06:00

Three years ago today, I said "I Do" to the love of my life. I look back over all we have done in the past three years and wonder how it can only be three years, but at the same time I remember every detail of our wedding perfectly, like it was yesterday (it's that night that is a little hazy, LOL).

Bryan is an absolutely amazing man. He is a wonderful spouse, lover, and friend. He is a great dad to all the kids, not just his own. He loves all of us unconditionally despite our faults. He genuinly cares about us and takes such good care of us. I am so blessed that God chose to make me his wife.

I came across a quote the other day that fits this day perfectly... "God made wedding vows as strong as steel and fragile as glass. Protect and honor the promises you've made to each other. Don't let anything come between you." based off of Mark 10:9.

May God bless us and keep us... may every day He strengthen our marriage and our love for each other, and for Him. May He continue to bless us as a family.... keep us in good health, with a roof over our heads, jobs to go to and warm meals to eat. I say these things in Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday Confessional

2011-09-16T07:23:00.000-06:00

I Confess.... that I feel like an idiot. I woke up in the middle of the night to go pee and my legs were all tingly/asleep. I didnt realize until I had already stood up and I fell. A "POP" noise came from my ankle that was loud enough to wake my husband (although I am not sure how he didnt wake up to me falling...). I went to the Dr and Ive "sprained the dickens out of it", as he said. The popping maybe the ligament since no bones broke, waiting on the radiologist.

I Confess... I was more worried about my neck than my leg considering I am 5 weeks post-op and my head almost went through the wall. Luckily, no neck pain so I dont think I did anything. Neck XRays are next week.

I Confess... I am THRILLED that all these Christian bands are coming to Utah. It doesnt happen very often... last week we had David Crowder Band, tonight is MercyMe, and in 2 weeks Casting Crowns with Sanctus Real and the Afters.... all that in addition to Beth Moore. I feel God working in Utah!!!

I Confess... I am getting used to napping in the afternoons. I can only work up to 6 hrs a day currently so I work 5 in the office, go home and nap, and work my other hour when I wake up. How am I going to adjust to working all day again. Ugh!

Yay! I Got Pink Stuff!!!

2011-09-13T07:01:00.000-06:00

I got my "Favorite Color Swap" package in the mail yesterday... and it was full of pink stuff! Thank you Amy (http://amyclairejacob.blogspot.com/) for putting together such a great package for me. Are you sure this was your first swap?!?!

I got so much fun stuff... bubble gum, mentos, coconut M&M's, yummy smelling coffee (with a pink bow to make it pink!), nail polish, lip gloss, a note book, a neat fleece blanket, some cool markers, etc.

AND.... a Harley-Davidson pink poker chip from Duluth. How freaking cool is that? I think I am going to start collecting them when we go places. I found out last night that my brother in law does so I need to hide this one so he doesnt add it to *his* collection!

Thank you again Amy! I hope you enjoy your package as much as I did mine. Those coconut M&M's were a lovely treat last night :)

Thanks Mamarazzi for putting this together. Fun times!

Where were you when the world stopped turning?

2011-09-07T08:06:00.000-06:00

10 years? Already? It seems like yesterday b/c my heart still aches for all those directly affected by the terrorist attacks. My heart aches for the loss of life.

10 years ago this weekend, I was in Chicago with my parents, ex husband, and daughter. We were in town for a Notre Dame game and staying at my Uncle's condo downtown. I remember waking up and seeing on the TV that a plane had crashed into a building in NY. We kept watching and soon enough another plane... then the plane in the field... and the plane in the Pentagon. I remember my 1 year old child saying "Why those planes hit the buildings?" I don't know... I don't know why someone would want to cause that much havoc and chaos and destruction.

After a while we decided to turn off the TV and go to Navy Pier. We took a bus from the condo over and mentioned there wasn't many people on board. When we got off the bus, I swear the bus driver hauled ass to get away from us. Then we looked around and there were no more buses... or taxis... or anything. The city was eerily quiet.

We ended up having to walk back and we were directly across from the Sears Tower (which later we heard was another target) and I remember FREAKING out when I heard airplanes b/c there wasn't supposed to be any. All flights had been grounded. It ended up being Air Force planes doing circles around the Sears Tower but it was so cloudy that day, we couldn't see them.

We were stuck in Chicago for a while... took a couple of days to get a rental car and drive home. For years to come, my little girl continued to ask about planes and buildings and bad guys. Hurts my heart that she had to learn about that at such an early age. It is so sad that so many lives were lost for something so senseless. My brain isn't programmed like that... I don't think about hurting others. I just pray that people think about the consequences to their actions and the needless deaths end. I just want peace and safety and love. That's all...

Lord, I am sure there are many blessings that have come from this disaster and for that I thank you... but I know this weekend, many are going to focus on the heart ache and the terror. Father God, bring them peace and comfort. Let them remember all those who willingly helped out and for those who stood up for us and continue to stand for us today. Help us to know you better through the events that happened 10 years ago. Lord, I say these things in Jesus' name. Amen.

Beth Moore- Living Proof Live- SLC

2011-08-29T08:02:00.000-06:00

Oh. My. Gosh.

This weekend I went to a women's conference in SLC with a bunch of ladies from church. Beth Moore is a well known Christian bible study teacher, inspirational speaker, etc. I've never been to something like this before and didnt know what to expect and it was amazing. It was powerful, fullfilling, uplifting, and just spirit filled. It was exactly what I needed.

Here are some pictures from our weekend...

Beth Moore

When Jesus Christ is Revealed

Me and Brenda

Worshipping to the music of the Travis Cottrell Praise Team

Some of the ladies from my church. I am so blessed to have them in my life!

Friday Confessional

2011-08-26T06:59:00.000-06:00

Considering I've been laying around in bed for 2 weeks, I am not sure how much there is to confess this time but we'll see how it goes.

I confess... that I havent been laying around the whole time. Any chance I had to get up I took it... 2 weeks is a long time. I am feeling pretty good that I am now able to work from home 4 hrs a day and ease back into full time.

I confess... I FREAKED when I took off my bandage. I thought I looked like a monster. Luckily, the insicion on my neck looks a lot better.

I confess... I got eye last extentions and I am not sure I love them. They were pricy and look cool, but seem like a lot of work and my hope was to make for less work. Its only been a day so I am not going to make any for sure judgements yet.

Yay!!! Swap Time!!

2011-08-26T06:52:00.000-06:00

I am so excited... it's time for another swap. This is a favorite colors swap... it will be fun :)

Ugh!

2011-08-17T13:09:00.000-06:00

I'm not going to lie. This has been an adventure. Pain where I didn't have it before, my favorite drinks taste like crap, sleeping is a chore, my neck looks like a monster dug into it.

However, the old pain is gone... My headaches are gone... My incision should heal nicely...everyone is waiting on me b/c I can't drive or lift more than 10 lbs.

So while I say "ugh" now... I really will mean " thank you" later.

I Heart Harley-Davidson

2011-08-08T08:31:00.000-06:00

Over the weekend we got a text from my dad asking if we've ever thought about a Heritage Softtail Classic. Ummm... I hadn't, but Bryan's always thinking of bikes so he had. He told us to come down to the HD dealership, he had an idea. Great... his ideas normally cost me a lot of money.

We get down there and we talk with my parents... they have a 2006 Fatboy that we have been making payments to them on since May and while we were in Vegas we had to put some money into it b/c there were some issues. That got my dad thinking... and he offered us to trade in the Fatboy for something newer with a warranty so if anything did happen, he didnt feel responsible for it.

After doing some negotiations and paperwork.... we are now the proud owners of a 2012 Heritage Softtail Classic (with a warranty and a prepayed service plan) for only $10 a month more than the payment we were making to him. Yay!!

This is a picture of it from their website... that's the color and everything, only missing the engine guard and highway pegs. Isn't it beautiful??

WTF... F= Friday!

2011-08-05T07:28:00.000-06:00

1) A magazine, newspaper, or website just offered to give you your own advice column. In what area of life do you advise people, and what is your column called? I tend to give advice a lot. Most of the time people ask for it... and when I do, I tend to ramble... so I'll stick with my blog title for my advice column "Ramblings of the cool chick"

2) If your favorite celebrity endorses a product, are you more likely to buy whatever it is? Nope... I dont care so much about that stuff. Does it matter if you wear the same underwear as Michael Jordan?

3) In what way do you reward yourself for your accomplishments? Pedicures, shopping trips, coffee!

4) If you could only pick two of the following attributes to have -- being intelligent, good looking, or emotionally stable -- which two would you pick? Emotionally Stable and Being Intelligent.

5) On ABC Family's show "State of Georgia," a man is seen sliding down a department store's escalator while wearing lingerie. What is the weirdest thing you've seen in a store? Someone going from the dressing room half naked to find another size off the rack.

6) If you owned an airplane that can do skywriting, what message would it write across the sky today? " 6 Days Until Surgery"

7) What is one of your favorite lines from a recent movie? " Just stick out your pudding cup".... from the ZooKeeper movie. That part made me laugh so hard. What was even funny was me and the kids talking about it in front of my hubby who didnt see the movie and as we were walking down the street I acted out the scene and he was utterly embarrased. LOL

8) Anatidaephobia is the fear that somewhere, somehow, a duck is watching you because of something you once did to a duck. Are you ever afraid that you're being watched? Not usually...

9) What are some things people should never do in public? Pee, wear hair curlers, go without a bra

10) What is something you've never seen in a vending machine that you wish you could buy out of one? Hmmm... good question. Maybe just general supplies you would find in your purse but are always missing when you need them. Like make up, or safety pins, or super glue.

Friday Confessional

2011-08-05T07:14:00.000-06:00

I confess... I missed my hubby while he was away. I am so glad he had a fun time in San Francisco, but am glad that he is home now.

I confess... that I was suprised when he brought home gifts for me and the kids. He got me an awesome cross prayer box, got Ty a purse, and got Drew a sword. Does he know us or what?

I confess... that I had a meltdown last night. The past 2 days have been terrible for me. My pain is a lot worse than its been and I just sat there in Bryan's arms and cried. All these silly "what ifs" came up... "What if I die in surgery, will you still take care of my kids?" or "What if something happens and I end up paralized?"... ya know, dumb stuff. I had a moment of weakness. I know my God's got this...

I confess... that even though we were invited to Bear Lake for the weekend, I dont know that I want to go. I want to get my house cleaned, I want to do last minute errands, I want to just relax. Maybe we'll go to the Smurf's movie instead.

I confess... I made the kids go to McDonalds the other night and made everyone get kids meals so we could get Smurfs toys. I have Brainy sitting on my desk at work. LOL

WTF.... T = Thursday!

2011-08-04T07:45:00.000-06:00

Drawing eyebrows with a Sharpie and other crazy things

1) Daily deal websites (like Groupon, LivingSocial, Seize the Deal, and even the pet-oriented DoggyLoot) are all the rage right now. Have you bought anything from any of those deal websites?
Yes, I shop off Groupon and GoDealGo all the time. I have gotten some awesome deals.

2) A former classmate of mine posted a Facebook status recently saying that she finally got her first "real world" job, to which I welcomed her to the hell of adulthood. She responded by saying, "Hell is being an adult and still having a part-time job at Old Navy!" How would you describe hell on earth?
Not sure its really hell on earth, but some bad things I've dealt with.... Watching my mom go through chemo and radiation for breast cancer, watching my daughter's saliva gland have issues and see her and pain and not be able to help, watching my son have seizure after seizure... stuff like that.

3) Many people are doing their back-to-school shopping for their children or themselves right now. Did you have a favorite character/theme for your school supplies when you were in school? Or, do you like to have unique supplies (like the high heel shoe-shaped tape dispenser on my office desk) for your office/home today? We arent doing anything fancy for school supplies... the kids each picked a color and tried to find the majority of their supplies in that color. I am irritated that ShopKo had better prices than Walmart so I have to return stuff today. Dang it!

4) Speaking of office supplies, some people love using Sharpie markers to draw in eyebrows. What is your favorite use for a Sharpie? I love to write with the thin Sharpies. My writing always looks better.

5) Who is a celebrity you'd love to sit down and have a conversation with? I am so not a celebrity junkie... I guess if I had to choose someone it'd be Oprah or Dog the Bounty Hunter. I think I am leaning more on Dog.

6) I recently discovered a list of 100 "crazy" things you should do before you die. (Click here to read.) What is something you think everyone should do before they die? Hmmm... Crazy? Get a tattoo, spend a weekend in Vegas, I don't know... LOL

7) What is the worst job in the world? I couldnt be a janitor. I dry-heave at the thought of cleaning up other people's messes. I have a respect for those who do that job and do my best to clean up after myself b/c of it.

8) What television show's filming would you love to be in the audience watching? I would have loved to see the Oprah show... but maybe Ellen would be fun too.

9) Some people are annoyed when other people talk on cell phones while in line at a store. I discovered something even more annoying -- someone ahead of me paying for a case of beer with all pennies. When you've been behind someone in the checkout lane at a store, what is the most annoying thing a person has done? A lady arguing with her kid over a candy bar. She was being rude, the kid was getting upset. I just wanted to buy it for her to get her moving.

10) I don't know if they really exist or not, but I heard a TV show talking about memory foam toilet seats. Do you think a toilet seat made from memory foam that shapes to your specific bottom sounds like a good idea? If you are spending that much time on the toliet, you've got bigger problems than the seat.

WTF Questions.... W= Wednesday!

2011-08-03T09:00:00.000-06:00

1) Do you feel it's okay to feed people food to pets or should you always follow the vet's instructions? I dont feed my dogs human food and I dont feed my kids dog food... each has its own!

2) Have you ever become addicted to a game (of any sort)? If so, what was it? Yes, Bejeweled Blitz

3) This week is World Breastfeeding Week. Should women be able to breastfeed in public places (assuming their covered up)? As long as everyone else doesnt see anything, I think people are fine to feed their babies in public.

4) It is National Clown Week. Have clowns ever scared you? No, but my daughter is scared of them. Although, my husband does have a scary clown shirt... Hmmmm.

5) If you became a spy and could pick anyone (living or dead, real or fictional) as your partner, who would it be? Good question... I dont know...

6) Where do you (or did you) get the majority of your life philosophy? My mom :)

7) Have you ever had a deep conversation with a cab driver? Well, over the weekend we were in Vegas. Twice we had issues with the taxi... one was b/c the A/C didnt work and it was 107 degrees. The other was when I asked him to take us 2 casinos over b/c I didnt feel like herding drunk people down the street in the 107 degree weather and he got snippy with me and yelled at us when I paid him (mind you, I tipped him over 30%) saying it wasnt worth this while, blah blah blah. Being the nice person I am, I chose to walk away rather than have a deep conversation with him b/c I dont think the sober person in the group should use those words.

8) Do you think toilet paper should be hidden or is it okay for people to see it "naked" in your bathroom? Hell, I'm just happy to have toliet paper in the bathroom so it can be seen or unseen. Hubby uses it all and doesnt replace it. Pet Peeve!

9) The Food Network's show "Meat & Potatoes" is rated "M" for "Meat." Many movies are rated "PG" for "Parental Guidance." Some video games are rated "E" for "Everyone." What is your life rated? LG - Loving God. I want everyone to see the goodness of the Lord through my actions.

10) What was a quick decision you once made that changed your life? Telling my friend that I wasnt dating anyone and was open to meeting the person she wanted to set me up with. Here we are 3+ years later :)

Could-a, Would-a, Should-a

2011-08-03T07:39:00.001-06:00

Totally stealing this from one of my blogging buddies :)

I can't...
•go with unpainted toe nails
•stand to touch wet paper... paper towels, toilet paper, etc. Blah!
•wait to have my surgery done and behind me
•believe how fast the past 3 yrs has gone, we are sneaking up on my anniversary next month

I can...
•use my pineapple cutter I just got from Pampered Chef and it tasted wonderful (big step considering I dont have much strength in my arms right now)
•spend hours on Facebook
•watch re-runs Law and Order SV over and over
•make some pretty cute homemade cards

I won't...
•ever be seen holding a spider. HATE them.
•mix jager and beer the way I used to.
•be watching any of Shark Week.
•tell you what you want to hear. If asked, I will give you my opinion. -- in a loving way, of course! ;)

I will...
•always be emmotional about everything, it's who I am.
•always see two sides to every story.
•always thank God for all the blessings He has given me.
•always question what needs to be questions, I've got to understand what is in front of me.

I shouldn't...
•worry. Period.
•get worked up over silly things.
•keep dollars in my purse b/c the vending machine keeps calling my name in the afternoons
•let my past determine my future.

I should...
•drink more water.
•plan more meals to eat at home.
•do a deep cleaning of my house before I have surgery... or pay someone to do it b/c I dont know that I am up to it.
•live my life to the fullest every day.

We Want To Know Wednesday

2011-08-03T07:27:00.002-06:00

{1} If you could spend a day with a blogger, who you haven't met in real life, who would you choose? Hmmm... probably my old swap partner, JennyKate (http://jennykate77.blogspot.com/). We had SOOOOO much in comman that I think it'd be fun to meet her if I ever made it to OK.

{2} What website do you check first when you go online? Facebook, duh!

{3} What is something you are saving money for right now? To pay off medical bills before they come in. We just paid off 2 of our credit cards, can I get a Hallejuiah?, so that leaves one credit card left which I am making good progress on and I am anticipating about $700 in medical bills for my surgery when its all said and done so I'd like to get a head start on that.

{4} What is your go to silly face when a silly face is needed? (post a pic of it and be entered to win a prize from Mamarazzi) I roll my eyes alot, does that count?

{5} How do you relieve stress? Coffee, crying, sleeping... all depends on the stress.

Viva Las Vegas

2011-08-02T07:50:00.000-06:00

LastThursday my mom, MIL, SIL, and I drove down to Vegas to meet the guys who rode the motorcycles down the night before. We were going to celebrate my nephew's 21st Birthday. We stayed at Hooters Hotel and Casino so when we got there, we found the guys in the restaurant and they were already a little tipsy :)

We went over to MGM Grand to get Fat Tuesday drinks (jello shots included) and go to the Harley Davidson store... went to NYNY to go to the Harley Davidson store... oh yeah, we stopped at HD in St George too, are you feeling a theme??

The next day we wanted to the HD dealership (HD Red Rock) that we havent been to before and on the way there, Bryan's bike started acting up. Started sputtering and wouldnt get out of 2nd gear. Freaking great. They ended up keeping the bike over night and got it up and running again. It was pricy (the joys of owning a Harley) but I am thankful it happened there instead of when they were in the desert.

Highlights of the trip, besides all the Harley Stores:

Bryan, Danny, Renee, and I went to see "Tony and Tina's Wedding". It was really funny and had a good time.
All the guys got new tattoos... Bryan got a HD skull, Dad got a flying pig, Danny got a hog, and Levi got a Koi fish with a Dragon. Awesome work... I recommend the Sleepy Lagoon in the Hooters casino.
We found the "American Idol" slot machine and thanks to it, I came home with money. It was fun b/c you could do group bonuses!
I didn't need an ice bucket, enough said!! LOL

Wanna Give Away Week

2011-06-20T09:48:00.000-06:00

I took last week off work for "Wanna Give Away" week at church... it was a week of service projects for the city of Ogden. It started bright and early at 7am with breakfast and ended every evening after 7pm with a worship service. In between those hours, we painted houses, walked dogs, gave out water bottles, organized food at the food pantry, etc.

It was a week of hard work, tears, prayers, laughter, and love. It was a great experience and I am glad I took the week off to be with my kids, my mother in law, and my church family. I have a bunch of pictures to upload so as soon as I remember to bring my camera in, I'll get some posted.

Lord, I am so thankful for the blessings that I have and the ability to be a blessing to others. Amen!

Arm Update

2011-06-09T08:13:00.000-06:00

Well... my arm issues arent really in my arm. They are in my neck. My neck doesnt have the right curve, the discs are degenerating, one disc is out of place and pushing on my spinal cord, and my bones are sitting on top of each other without cushion so its causing nerve problems.I had an appt with a specialist on Tuesday who referred me to someone else to get an epidural injection tomorrow. If that doesnt work, I go to a surgeon. Pray for me!

Prayers Please

2011-06-01T08:50:00.002-06:00

So… my arm/shoulder has been in pain for a couple weeks now and I had my MRI yesterday afternoon and the Dr’s office called me first thing this morning saying I need to come in to review the results. It’s a freaking shoulder, why do I need to come in? Little worried. I am going in tomorrow at 5pm b/c she wants to squeeze me in before she goes on vacation. I have my EMG nerve conduction test today, freaking out about it. Ugh. They did tell me my Vitamin D is extremely low which can cause some of my bone and muscle pain, so I will start meds for that this week.

Please keep me in prayer… I will be ok once I know what it is, but the anxiety of not knowing is what gets to me. I just need to be calm and trust that God’s got this…

All About Andrew

2011-05-31T07:45:00.000-06:00

My Drewby-doo just makes me laugh. He is such a sweet kid with the biggest heart. I thought I would make a list of updates for him along with reasons why I love him so much… here goes!

• He holds my hand when we are at the store. I don’t have to reach for him, he always reaches for me. It has to be a good hand hold too. No limp fish with him. He will squeeze our hands together tightly with his other hand.

• He gives me the biggest hugs when he tells me goodbye. He even ran after my car the other day to give me another hug.

• He loves gardening, but being in a town house we have to be creative. He tells everyone he has a green thumb and offers to help with their gardens. He told his sister she can help with the pots… but that she doesn’t have a green thumb. She may have a green pinky though, we’ll see how it goes.

• He has such a love for Jesus. He tells me all the time “I prayed for that…” when we are talking about something.

• He loves baseball. He thinks about every play. The other day he was playing 2nd base and caught a fly ball. We are all screaming for him to throw it to 2nd to make a double play and I think he was so shocked that he caught it, that he forgot what to do. “Mom, I forgot where 2nd base was!!”

• He is an artist. He loves to draw these little scenes. They are random… but they go on for pages. I love seeing him do them. He asked me for a notebook, 2 black pens, and a box of colored pencils. I better get to the store!

• He has overcome some struggles this year (and we will continue to work on them again next year) with ADD and a learning disability. He did really well in school. Had great grades. I am very proud of him.

• He has been deemed “seizure free”. His EEG showed no signs of seizures and he is being weaned off his medicine.

• He is a good kid and I am blessed to have him as my son.

Silly iPad2 picture of Drew

Dang Blog!!

2011-05-25T07:18:00.000-06:00

I just wrote this really long blog about my Drewby-doo... and it only saved the first line and a half. Dang it!