I Made It Through The Rain

Love Songs- Music Moves Me Monday

2012-02-12T15:02:00.000-08:00

Balancing Act

2012-02-08T20:57:00.000-08:00

How does one achieve the perfect balance between two opposing sides?

Side 1- We are told and taught that compared to God man is nothing. That we are just a speck in the universe in the whole scheme of things. We are told that the natural man is an enemy to God.

Side 2- We are told and taught that we are Children of God. That we are special. That we matter to Him and are loved by Him. That our souls are great in the sight of God. We are unique.

Then we are warned not to get too caught up in pride and to be humble and teachable.

So, my question or questions is this. How does one achieve the balance between these two sides? How does one feel good about themselves without coming off too prideful? How does one keep from going the opposite direction and feel like you are worthless?

Any thoughts?

Music Moves Me Monday- Since I Missed The Duets A Few Weeks Ago...

2012-02-05T15:46:00.000-08:00

Quotes---I Love 'Em

2012-01-30T20:55:00.000-08:00

I have always loved quotes. I have collected them for years. They have always brought a great joy to me. Sometimes they comfort me, make me laugh, inspire me, encourage me. You name it, they do it. Here are a few that I have found recently. Hope you enjoy them.

Music Moves Me Monday-Broadway

2012-01-29T21:32:00.000-08:00

I Am In A Mood Today

2012-01-26T20:03:00.000-08:00

Isn't that picture cute? I thought so. Anyway, I am in a "mood" today. Not sure what to call it. I am feeling about 20 different feelings all at once. I feel tired, happy, sad, foggy, energetic, defeated, slow, sluggish, peaceful, confident------That is not 20 but you get the idea.
So, as I search through my life as of late, I shouldn't be feeling all the negative things. My life is pretty good right now. I can't complain. Nothing is really wrong so what's the matter with me? (the song from Sound of Music is running through my head)
In an attempt to try and get out of this I am going to do part of the gratitude challenge by John Hilton III and Anthony Sweat. It starts out with writing 10 physical abilities you are grateful for. Here goes.
1. I am grateful for my eye sight. I have worn glasses all my life and still couldn't really see. I had surgery
on my eyes and now I can see a lot better.
2. I am grateful that I can breathe with no problem. For many years I couldn't breathe very well because
the roof of my mouth was blocking my airway. I had to have surgery for that too.
3. I am grateful that I can walk. I just love to walk. Glad I didn't have to walk across the plains like
some of my relatives did.
4. I am grateful that I can organized things. Like drawers and closets. I get great joy from that.
5. I am grateful that I can sew and do crafts. That really brings a lot of pleasure and I can share that
enjoyment with others.
6. I am grateful that I can play the piano. Not concert hall play but play for my kids at school. It is
a lot of fun and they enjoy it.
7. I am grateful that I can type without looking at the keyboard. Thanks to my typing class at Clovis
High School where we typed on manual typewriters.
8. I am grateful that I was able to give birth to at least 1 child in my life. I wish it could have been 3
more.
9. I am grateful that I can somewhat use a computer. I love blogging on it etc.
10. I am grateful that I can hug. I love hugging my family members and my kids at school.

Well, that's my list. What are you grateful for? Thanks for reading this. I feel better now.

Just found this on my cousin's Facebook. I think it relates to this.

Give My Regards to Broadway- Music Monday

2012-01-22T18:02:00.000-08:00

This week we were ask to post music from Broadway plays. I have never seen a Broadway play, but I love them. I was lucky enough to see two plays that had been on Broadway in San Francisco. They were Jersey Boys and Phantom of the Opera. They were fabulous. We saw them several times each.

Oops! I am a week early with this one. Oh well. The theme is "freebe" so I am going to go ahead and do it. Maybe next week I will post some more Broadway music.

These People

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

These people make me happy. They are Lori and Corey. Lori is the one who owns the group homes where Daniel has lived since he was 5 1/2. He will be 23 next month. I can't tell you what a blessing these two people have been in my life. I am so happy that there are people like them who dedicate their lives to helping others.

Also, they made me a God Aunt today. Lori gave birth to Chole this morning. I can't wait to see her. She was born a little early and weighs 3 pounds something. She will be in my prayers.

Music Moves Me Monday- The Wedding

2012-01-15T18:22:00.000-08:00

For this week's Music Monday they asked us to post songs from our wedding. Well, we didn't have any but if we did, these would be it. The first one is Tom's choice. (very romantic) The second one is my choice. (not so) Tom and I met at a dance and I think this is one of the songs we danced to. Enjoy.

(sorry for the boring picture. I found several with really nice pictures but some of them were a little too suggestive.)

I Did Not Stand In Line For This Ride- Did I?

2012-01-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

It is possible to feel one feeling all day long? Maybe even weeks at a time? I will never know or at least I haven't yet. In a day I can run the gamut of feelings. I am all over the place. Sometimes it is every five minutes.(I kid you not) It has left me to wonder- is this normal? Is it okay? Is it me of Fragile X???

So, I was feeling pretty sorry for myself last night about all of this up and down ~~crap~~ stuff. While looking for a picture to go along with my ~~pity~~ post, I found the following picture. Then that brought up a whole slew of feelings. Guilt, shame, silly. You name it I felt it.

I don't mean to complain. I am really truly blessed. I do have so much to be grateful for. God, Jesus, my family, my faith, my friends, my country, my blogs, my Facebook account, my job. I mean the list could go on and on.

Sometimes, I wish life could just go on and on, on a more even keel. Any suggestions??

It's The Simple Things In Life That Makes Us Happy

2012-01-10T07:30:00.000-08:00

This is a thank-you note that we received from my mom yesterday. It was so nice to get it. Just put a smile on my face. We were so glad that we could bring some joy to her. She is always bringing joy to others before herself. (Just a note-we did not give her the TV on our own. It was my SIL idea and we just gave her some money for it) It was so cool to see Mom open it. She actually cried. I love that.

Music Moves Me Monday-Commercials I Like

2012-01-08T17:50:00.000-08:00

This is a little bit sad because I remember all of these commercials.(they are now called vintage) They just don't make commercials like they used to.

Ladies And Gentlemen, We Have A Word

2012-01-02T21:08:00.001-08:00

After much blood, sweat, and tears(not really) I was able to finally come up with a word. It is .....

These are the things that I would like to create this year:

1. Create a more meaningful relationship with my Heavenly Father.

2. Create more meaningful relationships with my family and friends.

3. Create a more self-confident me.

4. Create better ways to use my time.

5. Create handmade gifts for family and friends.

PS Thank God for Pinterest. That is where I found the picture.

I Need A Word For The Year

2012-01-02T09:51:00.001-08:00

Help!!! I have been trying desperately for weeks now to come up with a word for the year. I thought I had it nailed down but have discovered that I don't. Just can't seem to find the right word to describe what I would like to do or become this year. Here is the list so far.

Quiet

Gratitude

Prayer

Uplift

Rebuild

Inspire

Kindness

All seem good, but not quite right. Any suggestions? Please, pretty please. Thanks in advance for your help.

Happy New Year To All

2011-12-30T11:13:00.001-08:00

I hope that this next year will hold many wonderful things for you and your families. I am so glad that I know all of you. Keep on blogging!

This year has been pretty good for me even though it has been a year of change and growth. But it all has been good. I went from teaching 2nd grade for so many years to teaching 1st grade. (I love it) I dug up an old hobby- crafting and sewing (I love it too) This was all due to my friend Kathleen. Thanks. I also took a big step and went to the M.I.N.D. institute to learn more about my fragile x. They are going to help me and I am so glad I went.

In this coming year there are some things that I would like to do. I would really like to learn how to use the new blogger editor. I am still using the old one. Anybody???? I would also like to incorporate more exercising into my life. Any suggestions???

May God be with all of you in this new year. Here is to 2012!!!

Happiness Is Eating Well

2011-12-27T11:23:00.000-08:00

We went to my mom's for Christmas and they sent us back with left overs. Last night Tom and I ate this stuff in the living room. It was all so good.

This morning I ate some watergate salad(soo good) and a glass of bloody mary mix.(thanks Brooke and Lauren) It was so good eating this in the middle of the day in my quiet kitchen all by myself.

Merry CHRISTmas Everyone

2011-12-22T09:59:00.000-08:00

I would like to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas. I hope these coming days will be full of peace and joy to all of you. I hope you will all remember the true meaning of this time. May God be with all of you and give you comfort.

I also hope that this new year will bring great things to you and your families.

Whatever Happened To Dick, Jane and Sally?

2011-12-20T19:44:00.000-08:00

This post is being inspired by an addition to our family. Tom's niece just gave birth to a baby boy last week.

As a teacher I am come across some ~~weird~~ unusual names for kids. I have had a Heaven, Wisdom and a Lucky. I have also know of kids named Ever, Wish and Mister. I don't know how these names came about.

I guess it could come from the movie stars. We have Bruce Willis kids name Rumer,Scout,and Tullulah.Then there is Gwyneth Paltow's daughter named Apple.

As I mentioned earlier, Tom's niece just had a baby and named him Walls.

I am not trying to make fun of people or to criticize but I have to wonder where and why people come up with these names.

What unusual names have you heard of?

Merry Christmas/ Music Monday

2011-12-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

Too Cute To Pass Up

2011-12-14T19:25:00.000-08:00

While at my brother's house for Thanksgiving, there was a knock on the door. Someone opened it and this is what we saw. McKenzie had rounded up the dogs and posed them for this picture. It was just to adorable to pass up. Several people went and got cameras.

From left to right: McKenzie, Blackie, and Scruffy.

Happy Christmas Decorations

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

I just love decorating for Christmas. It is so fun and always puts a twinkle in my eye. Here are some of our decorations that are in our house. Hope you enjoy them.

A Santa pillow in our living room.

Some decorations that are in Daniel's room.

A stocking that hangs on Daniel's bedroom wall.

Flowers and a candle in our family room.

A bouquet of flowers by our kitchen.

A nativity scene in our living room.

A globe on the coffee table in the living room.

Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. I just love this one. I found it at a garage sale several years ago.

Well. these are just some of the Christmas decorations that make me happy.

What It's All About -- Music Moves Me Monday

2011-12-11T18:48:00.000-08:00

Looking Like Christmas- Music Moves Me Monday

2011-12-04T20:44:00.001-08:00

Protected

2011-11-29T17:40:00.001-08:00

I don't know where to begin with this story except to say that I am overwhelmed with gratitude for my Heavenly Father today. I could really see His hand it what occurred today on the way to work. I was traveling down a very busy freeway on my way to work. The car started to shake a little bit. At first I thought it was the road and then the car really started to shake so I pulled over. As I did, I saw my tire rolling across the road. (funny now) I got out of my car and this is what I saw.

I got on my cell phone and called Tom. Luckily he was still at home and he was not in the shower which normally he would have been at that time of morning. About the phone-later that day it ran out of battery. He said he would be there in a few minutes. So I waited for him.

Also, there just happened to be someone else right behind me that had some car problems earlier and the CHP drove up to them and saw me. After they were finished with them they came over to me. One of the officers told me he had called the freeway service patrol to help me.

I was so grateful I almost hugged him. Do you think he would have arrested me?

My knights in shinning armor who came to rescue me.

I had a really nice place to pull over. It really couldn't have happened at a better place either. Right parallel to the exit. There were really two lanes of shoulder there. Oh, my tire is over by that tree.

All BETTER!!!

It's Christmas Time-Music Moves Me Monday

2011-11-28T06:59:00.001-08:00

Got Thanksgiving?

2011-11-23T08:46:00.000-08:00

I would like to wish everyone out there a very happy Thanksgiving. We all have so much to be thankful for in our lives. The good and the bad. This may seem weird, but at times I am more thankful for the "bad" things that have come my way because I have gained so much from them. Even though life might have been easier without them, I am not sure I would want to give those all back. (like all this Fragile X stuff) At times I feel like "shooting" Fragile X and at other times I could just give it the biggest hug. Fragile X has really helped to strengthen me.

I would like to say also that I am so thankful for blogging. It has really been a God send in my life. I have grown so much from this and have met some outstanding people. Keep on blogging.

I must confess that the above picture was stolen from my friend Jill. But, in my defense, the little girl is my niece too. (Jill and I share nieces and nephews) The little girl is Brooke who is now 20 years old.

When It's Time To Change

2011-11-21T18:24:00.000-08:00

Do you remember the Brady Bunch? (Don't hate me because I have the whole show on DVD) Anyway, sometimes they had some good things. Remember the time they had a recording session and Peter's voice started to change? Greg came to the rescue by writing this song. Well, with the events of the last few months, I have decided that I need to make a change in this blog. I feel the need to embrace the Fragile x-ness that is me. I want to change the name(again) to reflect me. I also would like a new blog design to go with it. Please help in anyway that you can.

Hope you enjoy this song.

I have come up with a few names but aren't quite sure. How about The X Woman or Just X-actly Me? I think we could all do better than that. Let your creative juices flow.

I Started Walking The Path

2011-11-18T18:30:00.001-08:00

I am literally jumping for joy inside as I have now started on the path. I thought it was going to stark at first, but it has been so enlightening and liberating to my soul. I think a lot of pieces are being put together.
As I walked on the path, I began to see the light and feel joy and comfort. I am going to be ok.

This woman is being my guide. Dr. Randi Hagerman. She is a god sent to me. She has been working with Fragile X Syndrome for years. She is so knowledgeable about it. It was so nice to be understood and validated in my thoughts and feelings. I have a new mantra now. It is not me, it is Fragile X.

They took so blood for some testing and I got a prescription for some medication and I get to go back in about 2 months. I am really looking forward to my next trip.

I am so grateful to all of you out there for your love, prayers and support. I think it really helped. Thanks so much.

The Journey I Will Take

2011-11-15T18:00:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow I will begin my journey down an unknown path. I have yearned to go down this path for many years. Now that the moment is here to take my first step, I am apprehensive about going further than I have. It will be beneficial to me to go, but it will put me face to face with the stark reality of the situation. My body is not perfect and there isn't much that can be done to "cure" or "fix" me. (well not until the next live anyway)

As I come closer to getting on this path, the doubts are starting to fly. Can they really help me? Will things become better? What if they can really help me? What if they can't? It is a scary proposition either way.

Oh, I guess I better say what I am doing. I am going to Sacramento tomorrow and Thursday to meet with renown experts on Fragile X Syndrome, which I have and which my son has. I am really hoping they can help me in some way. I am really getting exhausted trying to act like a normal person. I just don't want to feel funny or weird any more.

Music Moves Me Monday-Color

2011-11-13T20:09:00.001-08:00

Veteran's Day Thoughts

2011-11-11T09:10:00.001-08:00

Happy Veteran's Day and thank you to all who have helped in anyway to make this country great. I am really thankful to them because, frankly, I don't think I have the guts to do what they do.

A Darling Picture

2011-11-10T07:36:00.000-08:00

My cousin posted this on Facebook. I thought it was adorable. Hugs are really the best. I love it when my husband gives me one or all the kids at school that come up to me. It just makes you feel better. So hugs ((()))) to all of you.

Ready For Winter

2011-11-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

I love the winter. I enjoy the cooler air(it is a change from being hot all the time since the "change") I love wearing warmer clothes and bundling up. What could be better than sitting in a soft chair, watching TV , feet up, slipper socks and a portable heater? Bring on the popcorn and hot chocolate.

I Am Normal---NOT

2011-11-05T20:21:00.001-07:00

Well, over the past few days I have had some discoveries and some more information added to my brain. I relearned that I have 220 repeats in my DNA for Fragile X Syndrome. (that's a lot)Someone told me that I didn't have it because my intellect is okay but then someone who knows a lot about Fragile X said I do have it. Wow! That is a lot to absorb in one day. But it is also somewhat comforting because as they say,"It explains a lot." Things are starting to make sense.

While talking to a friend today, she helped me put some explanation to my feelings. They are very inconsistent. I never know how I am going to feel from one day to the next. That is why I hate this so much. It is hard not knowing and also not wanting to appear the flake.

I also made an analogy as to why I don't like roller coasters. I don't like the coming down from the top part. Could that correlate with the Fragile X? Just a thought.

So, I am not normal. But who is to say what that is anyway? I have always felt different from others, now I know why. But it gives me great comfort to know that you aren't normal either! LOL

Happy Halloween To All

2011-10-30T19:50:00.001-07:00

Here is hoping I make it through the day. The kids at school get so very excited about Halloween. It will be fun to see what they all dress up like.

Where's The Escape Button?

2011-10-27T18:08:00.001-07:00

Do you wish that the "recording" of your life had an escape button? Oh maybe just a pause or hold?Sometimes I do. When little things happen all at once things just seem to pile up. My mind is still gone. I am not thinking too clearly lately. I am not comprehending things I hear etc. My cousin wrote me a letter and said she doesn't want to do birthdays and Christmas anymore. I said something to a co-worker about another co-worker and the first co-worker told the second co-worker. But that turned out okay because we talked.(me and the second co-worker)

I feel like I am slipping into a hole again. I do get seasonal depression and I try to stay it off but not always successfully. I would just like to go into my closet and scream for 2 minutes and come back out. I could do that when Tom is gone or is playing the trumpet. He would never know but what about the neighbors?

I just had a thought-surprise. I need to do something different. Change up my routine. Maybe that would help. What do you suggest? What do you do? Anybody have anything uplifting to share or a video from Youtube?

I'm Devoid Of All Thoughts

2011-10-25T20:49:00.000-07:00

I think my brain has left my body. I don't know what to "blame" it on. I can't say my kids-they are all grown and gone. I can't say PMS because I am over that-I've changed. I can't blame it on my job or my boss-I love both. I can't even blame it on my husband- he is wonderful and he told me he loved me more than I can imagine. :) :) So who does that leave-me? It can't be that because I am so awesome and not to mention humble.

Sometimes, I think it is me. I sometimes put too high of expectations on myself or get my hopes up too high. I need to relax and enjoy the moment.(that's my word of the year and I am not doing too well sometimes. Maybe I should continue that word next year???)

I always talk myself out of blog posts for one reason or another. I think I should stop listening to myself. I just need to go with the flow as they say. Hey, maybe I need to go eat some popcorn and eat some candy corn. On second thought, could that be why my mind has left my body? Don't answer that? LOL

What do you do when you mind is devoid of all thoughts, etc, etc????

4 Generations-Friday Photo Flashback

2011-10-13T20:55:00.001-07:00

This summer while visiting my cousins, I saw this picture in an album of theirs. I asked them to send me a copy. They sent me this for my birthday! Starting from the left: David(my brother), Nellie(my mom) Iona/Nannie(my grandmother) and Nellie/Great Nana(my great grandmother). I was a little upset because I wasn't in here. (I thought it would have been cool to have 4 generations of women) But, when I saw the date on the picture, I realized that I am in the picture. My mom was pregnant with me. I was born in Sept. of 1959.

52 Candles/Comments

2011-09-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today, September 30, is my birthday. Have I changed much over the years? I have a very determined look in my eye. Wonder what I was looking at. I think after all these years, I still have it. Hope so anyway.

MY BIRTHDAY WISH IS TO GET AT LEAST 52 COMMENTS ON THIS POST. THANKS FOR HELPING ME OUT.

2 Birthday Cards and a 20 Dollar Bill

2011-09-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

After receiving the news about my niece yesterday, this really helped to lift my spirits. They are 2 birthday cards from 2 very dear people in my life. The one on the left is from my cousin Linda and the one on the right is from my friend Denise. We have been friends since 7th grade.

This 20 dollar bill came in the card from my cousin. Got to love the relatives. LOL

PS. My birthday is on Friday. (52)

A Little Rain

2011-09-26T16:34:00.000-07:00

Today a little rain has fallen into our family. Today my sweet and wonderful niece, Ashley, went in for surgery to have her baby removed from her fallopian tube. She is doing fine after surgery. Her mom is leaving tomorrow to come and be with her.

Forget not that the Lord loves you.

Golf Ball Hunting=Money Making Opportunity

2011-09-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

While my mom and niece, McKenzie, were here we had to go on a golf ball hunt. It was a blast and we found about 100 golf balls. (Can't believe I didn't get a picture of them) Anyway....

Here is McKenzie ready for the "hunt"

Our first "capture".

Here she is finding more.

The muddy feet of the great" hunters" at the end of the" hunt".

The best part was when we met up with a golfer. He had hit his ball off the tee and lost it up on the fairway.(are those the right terms?) Anyway, he asked us if we had found it. We hadn't but McKenzie went back a little way from where the man was and she found it. McKenzie returned the golf ball to him and he gave McKenzie $2. It was an awesome day.

Blank Is My Signature Blank

2011-09-18T18:06:00.000-07:00

This is something that has been bothering me for a while. That is knowing what my "signature" is.

Frank has My Way.

Tony has I Left My Heart In San Francisco.

Shelby has the color pink.

I knew I was doomed to answer this question when I opened my Dove candy wrapper today and it said to find my passion. Well, I would if I knew where to look or what is was. Does anybody have any ideas? What is your signature? What are your passions? Does one need one? Does one need an inanimate object to represent them or is who they are on the inside enough? Is this too deep?

Happy Friday- Uplifting Song

2011-09-16T07:01:00.000-07:00

This is a video of one of my former students singing at our school's talent show. She is amazing. When I first learned that she could sing I was shocked. She hardly said a word when I had her in 2nd grade. She was a wonderful student, by the way. I now have her little sister in 1st grade.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-06T21:15:00.000-07:00

WANT A BITE?

Deep Burning Questions

2011-08-31T18:41:00.000-07:00

I have all sorts of questions for you. Some are about blogging and some aren't. Here goes.

1. Why do people follow a blog and then stop after a while?

2. What do you do when a blog you are following doesn't update for months and doesn't say why? It is like they fall off the face of the earth.

3. How come some blogs have 1,000 of followers and get 100's of comments?

4. Is it okay to let God completely take over your life or should you help out where you can? Like , do your part?

5. Do you think it is bad to do the pledge in a public school? I do it everyday with my 1st graders. (some people think so but I don't)

6. Is there a good web site that I can go to to find ideas on how to decorate a sewing room/office?

7. When it comes to having a baby, "nobody" cares how old you are etc. but when you go to adopt one "they" care about all kinds of things?

8. How do you get excited about exercising?

9. Are there any good uplifting blogs out there that I can follow?

10. What are your plans for the Labor Day Weekend?

Happiness Project At Leigh Vs Laundry-Getting Rid Of Bad TV

2011-08-29T22:13:00.001-07:00

I made a decision to get rid of some bad TV in my life. I wasn't feeling too good inside and every time I would hear something at church or from other places, the little voice in my head told me to stop watching Baggage on GSN. Finally I took heed and stopped watching it. Boy do I feel better. So as a result:

I am no longer a newlywed.

I am no longer in a love triangle.

And I have no more baggage.

My soul sure feels a lot lighter since getting rid of these things.

It Is Okay To Be Happy--Right?

2011-08-28T21:18:00.001-07:00

Do any of you suffer from the Charlie Brown Syndrome? Sometimes I feel like I do. Why is it that we do this to ourselves? Can't we be happy inside even if stuff happens. Is it okay to be happy when bad things are going on?

I think we do this to ourselves because we are human and maybe lack faith. Or it could be ole what' his no-face(satan) that helps it along. Yes, it is okay to be happy regardless of what is going on. I think it will help make the tough times easier to get through if we are happy inside.

Due to things at work I haven't felt happy for a while. But somethings have changed at work and now I feel renewed and much happier. I love the feeling. I just get like Charlie Brown sometimes and loose my nerve to be happy. Or could it be that I don't know what to do with it?

You know what? I am going to feel this way because it beats the other way and now I know how strong I am because I got through 7 years of having a bad boss.

So, watch out world, I'm coming! Don't worry, be happy.

I Survived! (and so can you)

2011-08-25T17:54:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, August 23 was the first day of school. (I teach) I have had about 25 first days of school so far, but none-the-less, I was a bit nervous this year. See, I had been teaching 2nd grade for so long, I forgot how to do other grades. I made a decision earlier this year to move to 1st grade.

Well, FDR was right. I had nothing to fear but fear it self. I persevered and went to my class with confidence. It was a wonderful day. The kids were great and I felt so happy and calm and I felt like I was enjoying my job for the first time in a long time.

Sometimes we are prompted to make scary changes and sometimes we have to. I am glad I was able to follow my feelings and change grades. It has made a big difference in my life.

So if you have to make a change, go for it. It will be great especially if it is the right thing to do.

Happiness Is Having My Room Done

2011-08-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

I had to spend a week getting my room together because I had to change rooms. I taught 2nd grade last year and this year I am doing first. Also, the room was a mess and it was dirty too. I had to get rid of stuff and clean. But, it looks great now.

School starts today. Wish me luck.

Where Oh Where Has My Little Karen Gone?

2011-08-21T20:49:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been at home and going into work. My feet hurt and all my muscles are sore. I have muscles I didn't know I had.I found another lawyer joke that I forgot to put in my last post. My nephew Andrew just started law school last week.
My nephew Andrew and my niece Ashley stayed with us. I decorated the bedroom for them. It is sort of baby theme. Ashley is due in March. The bag has candy in it. Like Sugar Babies, Sugar Daddy, Baby Ruth, Almond Joy etc.

I also made some baby stuff for them. I called the baby "Baby A" because their names both start with A.
I have been trying to make this classroom look like a classroom. I am getting there. I had to change classrooms because I will be teaching 1st grade this year instead of second.
So, where have all of you been and what have you been doing? Hope you have been having a good time.

Look Out World: Andrew's Coming

2011-08-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today, Monday, August 15, 2011, my nephew, Andrew, will begin law school at McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento. All the best. (I hope I am not going to need a lawyer after posting this)

Happiness Project At Leigh Vs Laundry-Hard To Believe

2011-08-09T08:54:00.001-07:00

It is hard to believe that.....

this cute brother and sister team

and this adorable little girl are going to be---

A GRANDPA

A GREAT AUNT

A MOMMY

Congratulations Andrew and Ashley!!!

What Is Love?

2011-08-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

Over the years men and women have asked this question over and over. Many talks given and books written on the subject. There are as many different answers as there are people. Here are a few answers that I have found.
In the 1968 movie Yours Mine and Ours, Henry Fonda explains it beautifully to his daughter as he is taking her mother to the car to go to the hospital. I love this explanation. I couldn't embed the video, but here is the link to it. http://youtu.be/gVg55U7Ux84
To me this picture above is what love is. Every morning Tom makes fruit smoothies for us. Sometimes he is up before me and he will put mine in the refrigerator. He went the extra mile and put a straw in it for me because he knows I love to drink them with a straw. This always touches my heart.

That is what I think love is. What do you think it is?

I Love Mary

2011-08-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

I just love Mary. Here pictures are so cute and I love all the sayings she puts with them. Enjoy your Friday and weekend.

Thankful Thursday

2011-08-04T10:03:00.001-07:00

I am so thankful that there are places and people where the answers don't change.

What I'm Loving Wednesday- A New Blog Hop

2011-08-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

I found this great blog hop over at This Kind of Love. She is really sweet and a teacher too.

I am loving that this is my 200th blog post. Can't believe it. I need to have another give-away soon.
I am loving this plaque. I bought it from Christie Cottage. It came on the day of my colonoscopy. Perfect timing.

Happy Things

2011-08-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of happy things that happened this week.

I survived my colonoscopy. This is a picture of me before I went in. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.

I won this award for coming up with a caption for this picture. My winning entry was "I'm too sexy for my snake."

What good and happy things have happened to you this week?

Some Uplifting Music

2011-07-29T10:36:00.001-07:00

Here are two very uplifting songs. One is from back in the day and one is from now. Enjoy.

What are some of your uplifting songs?

Happiness Project At Leigh Vs Laundry- We Have A Winner

2011-07-26T08:26:00.001-07:00

I took a short trip to Clovis last week. While there I took McKenzie to Target. This store had just opened the grocery store section so they were having some raffles. There was a man asking trivia questions to us in order to get a ticket for the drawing.

McKenzie's question: Name one of the Fairly Odd Parents.

McKenzie's response: Cosmo (wasn't he the mascot of BYU?)

My question: Who is the host of Jeopardy?

My response: Which one? (showing my age again?)

His response: There is more than one? (showing his age too)

My response: Alex Trebex.(wasn't Art Fleming the original host?)

Anyway, they had the drawing a little bit later.(McKenzie made us stay) They called the numer on the ticket and it was her. She was so happy. It was a fun day.

The cool part of the whole thing was that the bucket matched her mom's tablecloth.

The Path I Walk

2011-07-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

This has always been something that fascinates me. Not hallways but how we walk them. Everyday I walk this path. I walk this path many times throughout my day. This path leads to my bedroom or if I turn left it goes to the bathroom and laundry room. I have walked this path for almost 10 years now. This path has not changed in that time. Everything is right where it was when we moved in.

Anyway, I have noticed that when I walk this path in the "light" I have no problems. I don't even pay attention to where I am walking. I know the way. I walk with confidence and no fear. Sometimes I even have things in my hands.

I have also noticed that when there is no "light" things take a drastic change. I no longer walk fast or with confidence. I walk very slowing and am hesitant about where I walk. I even put my hands out to feel the way. I also have great fear that I will bump into something even though I know nothing has changed.

Why is this? Perhaps when we walk in the "light" things are clearer and we can see the dangers very well. When we walk in "darkness" things are disguised. Things are not where we think they should be. Suddenly the wall is not where we thought it was.

So, in conclusion, we should always walk in the "light" because we know who the giver of light is and we know who the giver of darkness is.

Does anyone care to shed any "light" on this matter?

A "Very Romantic" Moment

2011-07-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

One night an older married couple were snuggling in bed just before falling asleep. The man was tenderly stroking the woman's arm. He then looked into her eyes and said,"Your skin feels better than it used to." To which she replied,"It must be all those fruit and vegetable smoothies I have been drinking."

This is an actual true story. The man was Tom and the woman was me!!!

Thankful Thursday

2011-07-21T08:34:00.001-07:00

DIVINE INTERVENTION

A couple of days ago, my check engine light came on. I told Tom about yesterday and asked if my Victor(our car man) could look at it real quick. I went over there yesterday and he checked it out. All I needed was a small part but it was no big deal. Just as Victor was getting out of my car, I noticed a screw in my left rear tire. It was a very good thing I saw that because I am leaving to go to Fresno today. (3.5 hour drive)

So was this divine intervention or what? If that engine light hadn't come on, I don't think I would have seen the screw in the tire. It could have been awful on the way to Fresno.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T09:12:00.001-07:00

GOT BUTTER?

Thanks to Tom's brother Jon and his parents, we have our years supply of butter. For some reason this butter can't be sold. Jon gets it for free. His parents were nice enough to give us some chunks. So, the butter for the popcorn is on us.

Giveaway Winners

2011-07-18T22:01:00.001-07:00

Winner #1

BECKY JANE

@Rise Above Your Limits

Winner #2

MICHELE

@Fake It Til You Make It

Winner #3

KIM

@Stuff Could Always Be Worse

Congratulations to all of you. Please email(kmort10@hotmail.com) me with your address and choice of prize so that I can get these to you. Thanks to all of you for entering my giveaway.

My Happy Happy Joy Joy GIVEAWAY

2011-07-15T13:45:00.001-07:00

Here it is. My for no good reason, just because I want to have a giveaway giveaway. Below are the three items you will have a chance to win. These were all made my me. (Don't let that stop you LOL)A tote bag, 2 standard size pillow cases and an artist canvas covered with fabric.
Pillow Cases- the cuff is cotton fabric and the body is flannel. One pillow case ended up a little smaller than the other due to technical difficulties.(I sewed it wrong and had to take out the seam. It was hard to do with the flannel. Sorry)

This is just a cute little tote bag. Uses are limitless.

The fabric covered canvas. Isn't this cute? You can put it on a stand or on the wall.

HERE'S HOW TO WIN

Each person will have up to three chances to win.

*Leave a comment here.

*Follow this blog.

*Be friends with me on Facebook.(Karen Shepard Mortensen)

*Tell someone about this giveaway.

Each thing you do will give you one entry. (4 in all)

Let me know what you do.

HERE'S HOW YOU WILL WIN

I will draw three names out on Tuesday morning July 18th.

The first person I draw will have their choice of the pillow cases, bag or picture.

The second person with have their choice of what the first person left.

The third person will get the one that wasn't chosen by the first two people.

Enter the giveaway now and best of luck to everyone. See you on Tuesday morning.

My Happy Happy Joy Joy Post

2011-07-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

I just love that saying. Brings a smile to my face. I decided I need to smile more and focus more on the positive side of things and not let the Fragile X crap/stuff get me down. So here are some happy, happy , joy, joy things that have happened lately.

1. Tom loves me. He is so nice and sweet etc.

2. My niece Ashley and her husband are going to be living in Sacramento for 3 years. My nephew, Andrew, will be attending law school there.

3. I am going to be having a give away for no reason as soon as I get one thing done.

4. My blogging friend Michele called me last night just to talk. It was wonderful. A good shot in the arm. It is possible that she and her husband can make a trip out here. Pray that it happens.

5. I re-organized my office/sewing room and it looks great. Maybe some day there will be pictures.

Everyone have a wonderful day and weekend. Let's all accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative, and don't mess around with Mr. In-Between.

On A Highway In Nevada

2011-07-12T20:25:00.000-07:00

This is for Wordless Wednesday.

Excuse me. Can I use your restroom please?

Another Week Of Happiness(These People Are Real)

2011-07-12T07:38:00.000-07:00

Last week Tom and I traveled to Utah. While there we got to meet two amazing women. These are two ladies I have meant through blogging. It is nice to know that they are real people living in real homes and not just living on my computer!!This first one is of Becky Jane and I. Her blog is called Raise Above Your Limits. She is one awesome lady. She has been in a wheel chair for many years and has 11 children. Her spirit is so sweet and strong.
This is Rachael and her son. She has a blog called Our Life. Her kids have Fragile X like Daniel. It was so good to meet her. It helped to feel that I am not alone in the Fragile X world. All her kids are just darling. (and so is she)

Side Note: All pictures used in this post were stolen, I mean borrowed. I couldn't get the pictures I had from my camera to upload today. But it wasn't really stealing because my husband took all the pictures-is it???

It Wasn't What I Expected

2011-07-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

Tom and I just arrived back from our trip to Salt Lake City with a detour ending up in Idaho. Throughout this trip I have come to know and appreciate the meaning of this quote. We arrived in Salt Lake on Monday July 4th. I was so excited to be there. But as time went on I began to become very sad. My town just wasn't the same any more. There was hardly anybody there and they have been building downtown for several years and things don't look the same. Plus I saw a "wayward" relative and that was sad. I just don't like what they are doing with their life. Makes me sad. I also saw an aunt and an uncle whose health are declining. They were just not their old selves. They are pretty young. 73 and 68. This is part of the reason why we left a few days early and went to Idaho. We had a really nice visit there.

As I was pondering over our trip to Salt Lake, this quote came to mind. It really gave me comfort. I am so glad that these people are in my life and that we had some good times together. Salt Lake is still a great town and I am so blessed to have been able to go there so often. It will always have a special place in my heart.

I still have those memories and pictures in my mind and no one can take them away. So I just need to hold on to those and be ever grateful that I had them.

Things change and that's okay. That is the way life is. Some changes are for the best and some are not. But, at least I had them and I can smile about that.

Back and Learned A Lot

2011-07-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

Just to let you know that I am coming back to Blogland the week after next. I would came back next week, but Tom and I decided to go to Salt Lake City. I love it there. Slat Lake is where my roots are. I always feel renewed after going there. Here are somethings that I have thought about and learned over these last few days.

1. I need to spend better time in prayer.

2. I need to spend better time reading God's word.

3. I need to spend less time on watching TV and then be more selective on what I watch.

4. I need to limit my computer time. I don't need to check things every 5 minutes.

(possibly a Fragile X thing?)

5. I need to remember my word for the year more. I need to enjoy each moment that I am in and not hurry on to the next moment.

(possible a Fragile X thing?)

6. I have come to realize the truth and meaning in this statement,"When you pick up one end of the stick, you pick up the other."

For everything I do, there is a consequence. I cannot control what the consequence will be nor can I control the reaction someone will have to what I do.

All I can do is do my best and say, " I am sorry." and try not to do it again.

I have been in contact with the family member who was/is upset with me. We haven't been able to talk yet, but we will soon. At that time, I will be finding out more specially of what upset them.

Thanks to all of you for your love, understanding and support. Have a wonderful 4th of July and stay tuned for a report on our trip to Utah.

A Need To Re-group Myself

2011-06-24T10:44:00.000-07:00

Well, never thought I would say or do this but, I have to take a little break. I really need to re-group myself.

Is what started it off was, a few days ago I found out that I upset a very close family member by writing something on here a little over a year ago.

So, that sort of threw me for a loop and then I started feeling like I am spinning out of control. Just sort of wandering aimlessly.

Anyway, I need to spend some time in prayer and meditation to help me figure this all out.

Therefore, I won't post anything here for maybe about a week but I will be on your blogs to see what is up.

Thank you for your help and understanding. All advise is more than welcomed here. If you want any details feel free to contact me, and I will let you know.

Hopefully re-grouping won't take too long.

Couldn't Resist

2011-06-17T09:26:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine posted this on Facebook. I cracked up because I can relate to it. One day after church I was standing behind what I thought was my car trying to open the trunk with my opener. To my surprise, the trunk of the car next to me opened.

Thankful Thursday

2011-06-15T20:30:00.000-07:00

1. I was able to take a wonderful trip to Clovis, CA. The trip included a baby shower, a wedding reception, and sleeping in the tent trailer.

2. I am learning to sew again. It is sew much fun. I have made a baby quilt, receiving blankets, and burp rags.

3. Daniel has been accepted to an adult day program and will be starting on June 20th.

4. I have been married to Tom for 24 years now. He surprised me with a card and flowers when I got home from Clovis.

5. School is out for the summer. I will be teaching 1st grade next year. We will also have a new principal. This is all good.

6. The bruise on my leg is getting better. (I was going to put a picture up but I will spare you all)

7. My new blog design is on its way. Can't wait till it all gets up.

Beautiful Water

2011-06-14T18:28:00.000-07:00

This is a water fountain at the Butchart Gardens in Victoria, British Columbia.

Happiness Project At Leigh Vs Laundry

2011-06-13T20:56:00.001-07:00

This past weekend I went down to Clovis for a couple of days. Here is what happiness was to me that weekend.

Sleeping in the tent trailer with McKenzie and Hailey.

Don't know if this was happy or scary. My 16 year old nephew driving my car. He did a really good job, by the way.

A finally cleaned car.

When I got home Tom had these flowers and card waiting for me. This could be added to my 24 Becauses list.

Happy Days Are Here Again (school is out)

2011-06-10T08:26:00.001-07:00

Just some "school's out for the summer" humor. I know the kids look forward to the end of school but I wonder if the teachers really want it more. (we do. don't tell anyone.)

Hope everyone is having a wonderful summer.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-08T07:41:00.001-07:00

Wicked Witch of the West or McKenzie?

I post, you decide.

My 24 Becauses

2011-06-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, June 12, is our 24th Wedding Anniversary. These are my 24 becauses of why I love him sooooo much.

1. Because he made me a wife.

2. Because he made me a mother.

3. Because he brought a wonderful family with him.

4. Because he has been through a lot and is still faithful to God.

5. Because he is trustworthy.

6. Because he trusts me.

7. Because he is responsible.

8. Because he fixes good food to eat.

9. Because he takes good care of our yard.

10. Because he remembers I like a straw in my smoothies.

11. Because he allows me to be me.

12. Because he has a great smile.

13. Because he is funny.

14. Because he is warm when I am cold.

15. Because when I call him he says,"Hi Babe."

16. Because he is calm. (I am not always)

17. Because he makes me feel safe.

18. Because he is complementary of my blogs.

19. Because he understands me.

20. Because he says that I am the greatest.

21. Because he loves his family.

22. Because he loves my family.

23. Because he loves our son.

24. Because he loves me.

There is suppose to be a link here to Leigh Vs Laundry 52 Week of Happiness but for some reason it is not working. You should go check her out. Blog button is on my side bar.

I Fall Down--Go Boom!

2011-06-05T19:43:00.000-07:00

The other day I tripped and fell over a little plastic garbage can in my office. This is the result of the fall. Yes, it hurts. Don't worry, no harm was brought to the garbage can during this event!After doing this I automatically thought of how I could turn this into a blog post. (Are you surprised?) It made me think that sometimes during our lives, we trip and fall and get physically hurt. When we do, we pick ourselves up, do what we can do to fix things, and go on.

Sometimes throughout our lives we fall, spiritually or emotionally. When this happens we need to do the same thing. We need to pick ourselves up, do what we can do to fix thing, and go on. The thing is, that our mistakes have been paid for. We are not hopeless when we fall. All is not lost.

So, the next "fall" you take, just brush yourself off and go to the right person to help you.

I Usually Don't Post On Saturdays But.....

2011-06-04T10:41:00.001-07:00

Sometimes you need to make exceptions. I just found this video on Facebook. My friend Erin posted it. Her and I are proud parents of special needs children. Her daughter, Cami, is my child of the heart.

Google Image Surfing

2011-06-02T20:39:00.001-07:00

These are some cute and funny things that I have collected from Google Images. I hope you enjoy them.

This is me in 30 years?

One of my new favorite sayings.

This is becoming more of a reality for me. Need to get back on that treadmill.

This cracked me up because this would be Tom. You could also substitute the golf clubs for a trumpet.

I love Maxine and this was fantastic. Here is to all my incredible friends.

Thankful Thursday

2011-06-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

There are so many things to always be thankful for each day. It is hard to limited it to just a few. I always have the obvious ones in my heart at all times. God, family, friends, blogging.

1. I am thankful this week that Daniel was able to come and stay at our house for the weekend. It was nice having him here.

2. I am thankful that after Tom and I took Daniel home, we went out to lunch and then to Cold Stone for ice cream. It was sooooo good.

3. I am thankful that our neighbors invited us over for a BBQ on Monday night. It was yummy.

4. I am so thankful that I only have 5 days left of teaching school and then I get off for a while.

5. My good friend, Joyce, who I used to work with called. It was so good to talk to her. She is very nice.

6. I am thankful that I found the "block" button on my email. Now I won't get so much junk mail. Don't worry, I won't block any of you.

7. I am thankful that I will be getting a new blog background soon. There was a little trouble because the lady wasn't getting my emails and I didn't know it until she told me.

Wordless Wednesday- Isn't He Cute?

2011-05-31T21:08:00.001-07:00

Thing That Make Me Smile

2011-05-30T19:50:00.001-07:00

Here are a few things that have brought a smile to my face lately.

A bag I made for my niece out of stiffened felt.

A creeping charlie plant that was on the farm we took the kids to on a field trip. We use to have these plants in our house when I was a kid.

A lunch date with Tom. Nothing beats a Costco Polish Dog with your sweetie.

A rainbow that was on my bathroom wall one morning.

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T09:52:00.001-07:00

What more can be said? I am so appreciative of all the military has done for me.

Put On A Happy Face

2011-05-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been feeling a little "down and out". Last night this song popped into my head and I thought I would put it up today. I love all the happy face pictures in this.

Daniel is coming to visit for the weekend so I am sure I will be putting on a happy face. I just love that guy.

Wordless Wednesday In The Park

2011-05-24T19:12:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken a couple of years ago in Clovis. I think it was Thanksgiving time.

The Lazy Swinger

Ride'm Cowgirl!

Meet Elizabeth--My "New Baby"

2011-05-24T07:34:00.001-07:00

Monday I took the day off of work so my friend Kathleen and I could go down to this "adoption" center and pick up my new baby. The name of the agency is Berkley Vacuum Center.

The entrance to the "agency".

Me and the "adoption" agency owner finalizing the "adoption"

All the "adoptees were lined up in the window and this one stole my heart. When I first saw her I knew that she was the one.

I am so looking forward to all the mother/daughter activities that we will be able to do together.

This I Believe

2011-05-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

I had a blog post all scheduled and ready to go. BUT.... I have since deleted it and now I feel very inspired to write this blog post. I just feel that God is leading me this way. I have been in a little "crash period" lately and I need to do something to pull myself back. Thanks for listening.I believe in many things but they are dear to my heart and are the simple truths that I have based my whole life on. I truly believe these are true. Here is my truth and my believes.

Spiritual- I believe I am two separate beings. I am a spiritual being and a physical being. I have parents for both of these. I love them and I believe they love me. They have all helped me and have done so much for me. I am truly a child of God who loves me. I believe is God and Jesus Christ with all my heart.

Family- I believe that I was put in this family not by chance. The family I have is the perfect one for me. They have truly helped to shape and mold my life. They have always been there for me. I believe that having Daniel was not by chance and that marrying Tom was not by chance. I believe the hand of the Lord was truly in this.

Job- I believe that I was truly lead to be a teacher. This has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. I have learned so much and have hopefully influenced many wonderful children.

Blogging- I believe that blogging was a God-send to me. It is almost impossible for me to express what a wonderful experience this has been. It has helped me in so many ways.

Thank you for listening to me.

A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Bathroom

2011-05-19T19:41:00.001-07:00

I thought we could all use a good laugh. At least I could. This is Kris Belcher. She is blind due to having cancer. She is a remarkable woman. I had the pleasure of hearing her speak a few months ago. She is telling a funny story about using a public restroom.

Below are my funny stories involving the bathroom.

Many times I have gotten up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom. One night I got out of bed and started walking to the bathroom. This night it was almost like sleep walking. I wasn't fully awake and my eyes were barely open and had stars in them. When I got to the door, I hear this deep voice saying,"Hello." It was Tom. He had beat me to it.
This is the picture of the restroom at work. One day I was having some problems and I sat in there so long the lights went out. That wasn't the worst part though. While sitting in the dark, in walks my principal. Luckily, she didn't try to come in my stall.
This is a picture of me when I was about in the 5th grade. I was with my family at Shaver Lake. I had to go to the bathroom. They only had out-houses. So I went in and when I was done, I turned around and my glasses(the ones above) went right on into the out-house toilet.

Hope everyone enjoyed the funny stories. You got one?

Thankful Thursday

2011-05-19T06:20:00.000-07:00

1. My husband who makes these wonderful fruit smoothies every morning.

2. Good people who watch after Daniel.

3. We think Daniel finally will have a new school placement after he graduates from the one he is at now.

4. Tomorrow is Friday and we are taking all the 2nd grade on a field trip.

5. Playing Wheel of Fortune and Family Feud on Facebook.

6. About 14 more teaching days until school is out for the summer.

Doc Severnsen Needs To Be Worried

2011-05-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

These are two of the grandkids who "blew in" from New Jersey to play the trumpet for us. Tom had a lot of fun showing them how to do it. They loved it.

My "Other" Children

2011-05-17T06:56:00.000-07:00

This is the first time I am joining up with Leigh for her happiness project. I think it is wonderful and should have done it sooner. Anyway, this is one thing that makes me happy. My "other" children. See, I was able to have one wonderful child and he has Fragile X. The risks were too high for me to have any more. That about broke my heart. But thankfully my big brother stepped in to take care of the situation. He and his fabulous wife had 5 fantastic kids for me. LOL These kids are the great joy of my life. I love them all as if I had given birth to them. I am so glad my brother and sister are raising them because I think they are doing a better job than I could. These kids are fantastic.

Are There Rules Of Following?

2011-05-16T06:10:00.001-07:00

Well, are there? I know that in the children's game of Follow the Leader there are rules. The leader stands in the front and does things. The people behind the leader are suppose to do what they do and go where they go. There are even Follow the Leader songs. So, are there any written or unwritten rules about following a blog?

Why does one follow a blog? I follow for 2 reasons. I feel that if someone is following me, I should return the favor and follow them. I also follow a blog because I like what they are blogging about and I think they are an awesome person.

Is there more to following than just putting your name on the list? I feel it is. I think that if I am going to follow a blog I should go there and read and comment on what they have to say. I think I need to let the blog author know I am there.

So, what ARE the rules of following? When do you start and when do you stop? Thanks for your opinions on this matter. I really do want to know.

Thankful Thursday

2011-05-11T19:53:00.000-07:00

1. I am thankful that I feel better.

2. I am thankful for friends who want to get together this summer and do things with me.

3. I am thankful a blogging friend let me be a part of another bogging friend's birthday.

4. I am thankful I found a cute little felt purse to make at www.youcanmakethis.com and that my friend Kathleen helped me make some really cute ones.

5. I am thankful that I have good friends at work that support me and are fun to work with.

6. I am thankful that Spring is here.

7. I am thankful that we only have 20 days left of school.

8. I am thankful for my treadmill.

9. I am thankful that I can look at pretty things.

10. I am thankful for this blog hop.

Sisters By Heart

2011-05-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father, Please bless Mom that she will have a baby and it would be a girl. Amen.

This is the prayer I prayed as a little girl. I wanted a sister so bad. Then one day mom was going to have a baby and I changed my prayer for some reason. I asked God to send me a "beetle brother". Don't ask me why but I did and I got what I prayed for. Mom gave birth to Billy on September 19, 1965. I am glad she had him because he was a good friend to me growing up.

Well, that feeling in my heart never did go away. I still yearned for a sister. Over the years I have gotten several of them. One was when my brother married Robin. She is terrific. Others came when I started blogging. Still more came from friends at work and church. I have been truly blessed with many sisters of the heart.

Holly Cow- I Put The Wrong Video Up

2011-05-06T19:42:00.000-07:00

This was the one I wanted up with my Zero Post. So sorry.

Some Mother's Day Thoughts

2011-05-06T18:52:00.001-07:00

There are many thoughts going through my mind as this holiday approaches. Sometimes I think it is a great day(I am so thankful for all the wonderful mother's out there), sometimes I don't think it is necessary(it should be ALL the time), sometimes there is a bit of sadness and times when I don't feel like I am in the category. So here come the thoughts. Here is a cute graphic I found on Google Images. I just think it is adorable. It really takes a special person to be a mom. I think you can be a mom weather you have given birth or not. I also think that just because you give birth, doesn't make you a mom. It is a title that I don't take lightly and shouldn't be thrown around.

Confession Time-- For many years I hated Mother's Day because I wasn't one. Then I became one and it turned out that I wasn't going to have the typical mother experience nor be a mother again. It was all I could do to attend church and take the flowers they handed out.

Well, I guess one day my wise mother stepped in and told me something that changed my life and my way of thinking. She told me that Mother's Day was not about me and weather I was a mother or not. It was a day to honor my mother and how wonderful she is. I am so grateful to her for saying that. It really turned me around.

Some times God steps in and gives you alternatives. He helps fill in the holes with other things. These following notes were written by two students of mine. As far as I am concerned they are just as good as Mother's Day cards from my children.

Happy Mother's Day and thanks for all you do. I appreciate it.

PS. I know I chose to be Daniel's mother and even though it has been hard, I am glad I chose him.

Z is for Zero

2011-04-30T12:04:00.000-07:00

Well, here I am at the end of the A-Z blogger challenge. I can't believe I made it. It was hard sometimes to come up with something good to say. But, I think 25 was my limit. I can't really think of anything good to write about here. I do have a good excuse though. I have been sick with the flu.

Cute cartoon I found on Google Images.

Now, zero is not always bad. It sure adds more value to a number when they are added. Wouldn't it be good to have zero of a few things? Like crimes.