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Monday, December 28, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Guest Blogger...
Today's guest blogger is....My brother Evan.... I am so incredibly proud of him. Owns his own company, getting ready to graduate from IU, and an all around great person. Shares the Burns family love of writing that comes from our grandpa... Enjoy
Are You Running Down the Hallway?...
It’s finals week, which luckily is really not that big of a deal this year. It would take an Obama style blackmail to get my GPA to move either up or down because the number of credits I have.
I’ve been fairly frustrated this past few days because I’ve had a bad cold, and because everybody else in the company has gotten sick too, and that nothing seemed to be cooperating. I then started to drop my level of performance and succumb to making excuses to myself why I wasn’t getting things done.
As I was sitting in my room at 1:00am sorting through 100 resumes for two low paying jobs I’m offering (and Obama says the recession is over), several other guys who just finished their finals busted through the door and started blaring Christmas music and dancing (no they hadn’t been drinking). Of course you can imagine that we all looked like idiots but it was fun haha.
After the song was over we shot the breeze for a few minutes and they left seeing the mass of papers sitting on my desk. I found myself after this working much faster even standing up at my desk (when I’m in the zone I stand and work). This brief 10 minute break to enjoy the joyous spirit of the holiday increased my happiness and productivity about 5 fold. It reaffirmed the reason i’m chasing the entrepreneurs dream, because of the freedom to drop everything and be spontaneous (uh and oh yeah to be the owner of my destiny). As I got back to work, my nose dripped on a paper I was reading (ugh). 15 minutes ago this would have pushed me over the edge. Now, I just got up to go the bathroom to blow my nose. Without even thinking about it, I found myself jogging down the hallway. This is what I do when I’m totally content, don’t ask me why but I hate just walking around.
Here is the point of the story, take some time and do something today that reminds you why you are in the game, it will push you to achieve even more than you thought. Maybe you’ll run down the hallway too.
E
check out his website...www.olympiamediagroup.com
Are You Running Down the Hallway?...
It’s finals week, which luckily is really not that big of a deal this year. It would take an Obama style blackmail to get my GPA to move either up or down because the number of credits I have.
I’ve been fairly frustrated this past few days because I’ve had a bad cold, and because everybody else in the company has gotten sick too, and that nothing seemed to be cooperating. I then started to drop my level of performance and succumb to making excuses to myself why I wasn’t getting things done.
As I was sitting in my room at 1:00am sorting through 100 resumes for two low paying jobs I’m offering (and Obama says the recession is over), several other guys who just finished their finals busted through the door and started blaring Christmas music and dancing (no they hadn’t been drinking). Of course you can imagine that we all looked like idiots but it was fun haha.
After the song was over we shot the breeze for a few minutes and they left seeing the mass of papers sitting on my desk. I found myself after this working much faster even standing up at my desk (when I’m in the zone I stand and work). This brief 10 minute break to enjoy the joyous spirit of the holiday increased my happiness and productivity about 5 fold. It reaffirmed the reason i’m chasing the entrepreneurs dream, because of the freedom to drop everything and be spontaneous (uh and oh yeah to be the owner of my destiny). As I got back to work, my nose dripped on a paper I was reading (ugh). 15 minutes ago this would have pushed me over the edge. Now, I just got up to go the bathroom to blow my nose. Without even thinking about it, I found myself jogging down the hallway. This is what I do when I’m totally content, don’t ask me why but I hate just walking around.
Here is the point of the story, take some time and do something today that reminds you why you are in the game, it will push you to achieve even more than you thought. Maybe you’ll run down the hallway too.
E
check out his website...www.olympiamediagroup.com
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Mom, she hates me...
You may be thinking that statement came from one of my teenagers... actually it was my kindergartener...
Jaden came straight in after school today and said very matter of factly..."mom, there's this girl...and she hates me." He was apparently upset by this.
So I say "Jaden, I am sure she doesn't hate you" to which he replies... "oh yes she does! She told me so."
So now I am thinkin, ok... who is this chick and why the heck is she hatin on my baby boy. So I probe further...
Is this girl in your class... "No"
Is she in the other kindergarten class... "yes"
And she said she hates you... "yes"
Do you know why... "no"
Does this pint size heartbreaker have a name... "yes"
Well what is it... "Summer"
So this Summer just came up to you and said she hates you for no apparent reason... "yes"
Did she say anything else... "just one more thing"
Well what else did she say... "she said she thinks I'm cute."
Aha! Playground romance. Try explaining to a six year old that a girl only says she hates you because she really likes you... makes for a very confusing conversation.
Crisis averted... I don't think there will be any lasting emotional scars from this one.... but you never know. :)
Jaden came straight in after school today and said very matter of factly..."mom, there's this girl...and she hates me." He was apparently upset by this.
So I say "Jaden, I am sure she doesn't hate you" to which he replies... "oh yes she does! She told me so."
So now I am thinkin, ok... who is this chick and why the heck is she hatin on my baby boy. So I probe further...
Is this girl in your class... "No"
Is she in the other kindergarten class... "yes"
And she said she hates you... "yes"
Do you know why... "no"
Does this pint size heartbreaker have a name... "yes"
Well what is it... "Summer"
So this Summer just came up to you and said she hates you for no apparent reason... "yes"
Did she say anything else... "just one more thing"
Well what else did she say... "she said she thinks I'm cute."
Aha! Playground romance. Try explaining to a six year old that a girl only says she hates you because she really likes you... makes for a very confusing conversation.
Crisis averted... I don't think there will be any lasting emotional scars from this one.... but you never know. :)
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Windy Wednesday...
It is extremely windy up here on the hill this morning... I think I should probably just stay home and hold on...
Yesterday was my dad's birthday. 67...I don't like that number much. When I graduated from high school, my dad was the same age I am now. I can't seem to get my mind around that one. In my eyes, my dad will always be young.
I called him last night about 10:30. He was in his usual spot... the garage... watching the usual... a ballgame. IU of course.
Besides the tv in the garage, he has four tv's in the house. Two in the living room alone... a big screen, but also one at the bar. That way he can have two different games on... sit on a swiveling bar stool and pivot back and forth to catch both. (can you say SportsAddicts Annonymous!) There is also a tv in the den and one in the bedroom. But where does he choose to spend all his time... In the garage. Must be a man thing.
He has a steady stream of visitors to the garage. Mikey from next door, my Uncle Gary from a few blocks over, and most everyone in between. They file in and out at all hours. He's a popular guy my dad.
So as we ended our conversation, I wished him a happy birthday and told him i love him very much... He told me he loves me with all his heart... Then he said what he says every single year, "just glad to be celebrating another one." :)
Me and Dad at the Bubble Room on Capitiva Island way back in 1992... nice outfits :)
Yesterday was my dad's birthday. 67...I don't like that number much. When I graduated from high school, my dad was the same age I am now. I can't seem to get my mind around that one. In my eyes, my dad will always be young.
I called him last night about 10:30. He was in his usual spot... the garage... watching the usual... a ballgame. IU of course.
Besides the tv in the garage, he has four tv's in the house. Two in the living room alone... a big screen, but also one at the bar. That way he can have two different games on... sit on a swiveling bar stool and pivot back and forth to catch both. (can you say SportsAddicts Annonymous!) There is also a tv in the den and one in the bedroom. But where does he choose to spend all his time... In the garage. Must be a man thing.
He has a steady stream of visitors to the garage. Mikey from next door, my Uncle Gary from a few blocks over, and most everyone in between. They file in and out at all hours. He's a popular guy my dad.
So as we ended our conversation, I wished him a happy birthday and told him i love him very much... He told me he loves me with all his heart... Then he said what he says every single year, "just glad to be celebrating another one." :)
Me and Dad at the Bubble Room on Capitiva Island way back in 1992... nice outfits :)
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Christmas Parade...
Today was the parade. It was SO cold. We stayed in the van until we heard the sirens coming. We still froze to death by the time it was over. Kids had fun though. And imagine my surprise when they start telling Santa what they want for Christmas and there is no mention of any of the items that they picked out at Walmart Thursday night.... you know the ones I went back and got on Friday morning (as was all part of my Brilliant plan in my last post) OMG! So much for my strategy.
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Thursday, December 3, 2009
Strategy...
Ok so the countdown is on and I have two gifts in my possession. Considering the fact that I have four kids, four parents, two in-laws, two brothers, one grandparent, two neices and a nephew... that is SO not a good thing. Despite my best efforts to concentrate and shop online I am constantly distracted soooo.... time to regroup and replan my attack.
Depite every fiber of my being telling me to do otherwise... I am going to take the kids to walmart after school (um...that's after 3:30... and if any of you followed my facebook rantings last week when I went after 3:30 you will understand why this is dangerous to my health) But, I will bite the bullet and take them there...spend time in the dreaded toy aisle while they pick out their favorite things...then return tomorrow and buy it all. Sounds like a plan don't yout think?
Heaven help the poor soul that blocks my way with their cart while talking on their cell oblivious to every other person on the planet... I pity the fool. ;)
Depite every fiber of my being telling me to do otherwise... I am going to take the kids to walmart after school (um...that's after 3:30... and if any of you followed my facebook rantings last week when I went after 3:30 you will understand why this is dangerous to my health) But, I will bite the bullet and take them there...spend time in the dreaded toy aisle while they pick out their favorite things...then return tomorrow and buy it all. Sounds like a plan don't yout think?
Heaven help the poor soul that blocks my way with their cart while talking on their cell oblivious to every other person on the planet... I pity the fool. ;)
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Texting Thanksgiving...
This is my favorite picture taken at Thanksgiving this year. (Although I don't think Julie was too happy with us when she took it:) Notice in the warm and fuzzy Thanksgiving Eve post below from the 25th that I have used for the last two years, it says nothing about the traditions of Burns family texting... guess I will need to change that next year.
Despite how it looks in the picture...we actually did talk to eachother throughout the course of the night. :) Talked a lot about our phones, now that I think about it. Heck we even texted eachother from across the bar...
My Blackberry Curve... "PING"... it was Kent
My Blackberry Curve to his Blackberry Tour... "What!?"
His Tour to my Curve... "QUEER!"
My Curve to his Tour... "MAGGOT!"
True story... I am happy to say, though, that when we went around the table to say what we were most thankful for, not one of us said instant messaging, facebook, or 3G network...
Here are a couple more of my favorites pics...
Hey wait... is that a cellphone in Grandma's hand???
Don't ask...don't tell...believe me!
Best brothers ever!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanksgiving Eve....
This year on thanksgiving eve... I am FURIOUS! Furious with my oldest son. Ethan was chosen freshman homecoming candidate today and what does he do..... TURNS IT DOWN. Who does that?!!! Ethan Michael Jones does apparently. Turned it down.... blows my mind.
The following is from last year's Thanksgiving Eve post... not much has changed :)
I don't get to see my mom on Thanksgiving, and that is always a real bummer. But, I am looking VERY forward to seeing Kent and his family. Haley is home, so can't wait to see her. Max is with his mom... bummer. Jaden is SO excited to see Abby, he can hardly stand it. I can't wait to stand in the kitchen, crowded around the cheeseball, catching up with everyone while we wait on the turkey. It's tradition.
My family has a lot of Thanksgiving traditions...we are a predictable bunch. Dad and Kent and Aaron will hang out in the garage or at the bar watching some ball game. Julie, Patti, and I will hang in the kitchen and talk about everything we can think of. Evan will kind of migrate between the two. Big kids will impatiently await the food (which simply cannot be eaten before at least 7:30!) Little ones will run up and down the hallway, only stopping when papaw burns catches them.
We will gather around the table, take turns telling what we are most thankful for. My grandma Burns (almost 93!) will give thanks, and dad will be all misty eyed. Then we will proceed to stuff ourselves till we can hardly move, forgetting that grandma has made pumpkin AND chocolate pie. Somehow we will all find room for a piece or two. Kent will stand (cause he is too full to sit) in the kitchen eating several pieces of the persimmon pudding I make him every year. He will invariably say "Man, Aunt P, this is excellent!" (his kids call me Aunt P - long story) The rest of the evening we will just be together and anticipate the Christmas season.
Doesn't that sound like just THE most perfect Thanksgiving! I think it does... :)
The following is from last year's Thanksgiving Eve post... not much has changed :)
I don't get to see my mom on Thanksgiving, and that is always a real bummer. But, I am looking VERY forward to seeing Kent and his family. Haley is home, so can't wait to see her. Max is with his mom... bummer. Jaden is SO excited to see Abby, he can hardly stand it. I can't wait to stand in the kitchen, crowded around the cheeseball, catching up with everyone while we wait on the turkey. It's tradition.
My family has a lot of Thanksgiving traditions...we are a predictable bunch. Dad and Kent and Aaron will hang out in the garage or at the bar watching some ball game. Julie, Patti, and I will hang in the kitchen and talk about everything we can think of. Evan will kind of migrate between the two. Big kids will impatiently await the food (which simply cannot be eaten before at least 7:30!) Little ones will run up and down the hallway, only stopping when papaw burns catches them.
We will gather around the table, take turns telling what we are most thankful for. My grandma Burns (almost 93!) will give thanks, and dad will be all misty eyed. Then we will proceed to stuff ourselves till we can hardly move, forgetting that grandma has made pumpkin AND chocolate pie. Somehow we will all find room for a piece or two. Kent will stand (cause he is too full to sit) in the kitchen eating several pieces of the persimmon pudding I make him every year. He will invariably say "Man, Aunt P, this is excellent!" (his kids call me Aunt P - long story) The rest of the evening we will just be together and anticipate the Christmas season.
Doesn't that sound like just THE most perfect Thanksgiving! I think it does... :)
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Birthday Blog...
November is a big birthday month. A few of the people I love most in this world were born in November. Unfortunately, I am so stinkin busy I barely got time to acknowledge them.
The 2nd was my big brothers birthday. He got the customary text saying "Happy Birthday Queer", and responded with the usual "Thanks Queer." Those of you who know me well know that I love my brother with a passion. He is my hero and growing up he was the center of my universe. I can trust him and confide in him. He has always been there for me and has protected me like only a big brother can. I miss him everyday and don't see him nearly enough. Such is life.
The 14th was my little brother's birthday. He turned the big 22. Funny how he keeps having birthdays but I'm the one that keeps getting older. He also got a text about 9:30 that night. Sad I know. Evan is my inspiration and I also love him with a passion. That kid has more drive than anyone I have ever known in my life. He is destined for big things. Huge things actually. He will graduate from IU in the spring. I also miss him everyday, and don't see him nearly enough.
My dear friend Kristy's baby boy Isaiah shares Evan's birthday. He turned the big O-N-E. He is such a little doll. Looks like his big brother. Unfortunately, he doesn't have a phone yet, so I couldn't text him, and of course totally spaced the party. I really need to get out of the garage more. Saw pictures of him today. He is walking and has hair! I missed his whole first year. His big sister Mikenna also had a birthday this month. She is too cute for words. Her mommas face and her mommas sassines. Guess what... no phone, no text, busy on party day. How sad is that.
TODAY is my besties birthday! Christy and I started our friendship via text about 3 years ago. My life has never been the same. :) She is always there, night or day. She knows me deep. She loves me anyway. She prays with me, she prays for me. She holds me accountable and she never hesitates to tell me exactly what she thinks. I love that about her. We know that God brought us together for a reason and we are having a ball watching it all unfold. Her faith inspires me, her friendship guides me, and she helps me be a better person. I will text her happy birthday right now... but I won't call her a queer :)
The 2nd was my big brothers birthday. He got the customary text saying "Happy Birthday Queer", and responded with the usual "Thanks Queer." Those of you who know me well know that I love my brother with a passion. He is my hero and growing up he was the center of my universe. I can trust him and confide in him. He has always been there for me and has protected me like only a big brother can. I miss him everyday and don't see him nearly enough. Such is life.
The 14th was my little brother's birthday. He turned the big 22. Funny how he keeps having birthdays but I'm the one that keeps getting older. He also got a text about 9:30 that night. Sad I know. Evan is my inspiration and I also love him with a passion. That kid has more drive than anyone I have ever known in my life. He is destined for big things. Huge things actually. He will graduate from IU in the spring. I also miss him everyday, and don't see him nearly enough.
My dear friend Kristy's baby boy Isaiah shares Evan's birthday. He turned the big O-N-E. He is such a little doll. Looks like his big brother. Unfortunately, he doesn't have a phone yet, so I couldn't text him, and of course totally spaced the party. I really need to get out of the garage more. Saw pictures of him today. He is walking and has hair! I missed his whole first year. His big sister Mikenna also had a birthday this month. She is too cute for words. Her mommas face and her mommas sassines. Guess what... no phone, no text, busy on party day. How sad is that.
TODAY is my besties birthday! Christy and I started our friendship via text about 3 years ago. My life has never been the same. :) She is always there, night or day. She knows me deep. She loves me anyway. She prays with me, she prays for me. She holds me accountable and she never hesitates to tell me exactly what she thinks. I love that about her. We know that God brought us together for a reason and we are having a ball watching it all unfold. Her faith inspires me, her friendship guides me, and she helps me be a better person. I will text her happy birthday right now... but I won't call her a queer :)
Monday, November 16, 2009
CAN'T SLEEP!!!
It is 12:58 am... I am awake... Grrr
I am making an effort to clear the random thoughts filling my head so I can get some SLEEP!
Dang! I should've had some pop before midnight!! To late now, Christy and I have sworn off our beloved Pepsi and Dr. Pepper until further notice.
Crap! Tomorrow is Monday...well actually I guess it's already Monday...which means Walmart day...which means I have to deal with managing my extreme aisle rage yet again.
Holy Moly! Thanksgiving is a week from Thursday...
Good Lord! I haven't started Christmas shopping yet...do you know how long it takes to Christmas shop for 4 kids!
OMG! I didn't get all the laundry done, which means I will be searching for three pairs of matching socks in just a few hours before I have had a chance to have any coffee....oh wait... mom did all the laundry yesterday :)
Hmmm. I wonder if I am the only one who has obsessive thoughts that won't go away
Idk... Is facebook really a form of cyber stalking??
Man. It's kinda creepy sitting in here alone in the dark. I knew I shouldn't have watched that commercial for Paranormal Activity.
I wonder. How ridiculous am I going to feel when I have to sprint down the hallway cause now I've spooked myself.
I'm makin a run for it....
I am making an effort to clear the random thoughts filling my head so I can get some SLEEP!
Dang! I should've had some pop before midnight!! To late now, Christy and I have sworn off our beloved Pepsi and Dr. Pepper until further notice.
Crap! Tomorrow is Monday...well actually I guess it's already Monday...which means Walmart day...which means I have to deal with managing my extreme aisle rage yet again.
Holy Moly! Thanksgiving is a week from Thursday...
Good Lord! I haven't started Christmas shopping yet...do you know how long it takes to Christmas shop for 4 kids!
OMG! I didn't get all the laundry done, which means I will be searching for three pairs of matching socks in just a few hours before I have had a chance to have any coffee....oh wait... mom did all the laundry yesterday :)
Hmmm. I wonder if I am the only one who has obsessive thoughts that won't go away
Idk... Is facebook really a form of cyber stalking??
Man. It's kinda creepy sitting in here alone in the dark. I knew I shouldn't have watched that commercial for Paranormal Activity.
I wonder. How ridiculous am I going to feel when I have to sprint down the hallway cause now I've spooked myself.
I'm makin a run for it....
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Sticks and stones...
Teasing and name calling... don't you love it. I am amazed at how it has transformed from the time I was a kid back in the land of innocence to the times we are living in today. You remember the days of "oh yea...you and what army" or classic insults like "your such a a doofus" or "barf bag" or "pizza face" or "four eyes." Today it's all out, no holds barred viscousness. Nothing is off limits. These kids throw insults and words around that I probably didn't even know existed until I was out of high school. It's a sad state of affairs...
Even though our insults seem WAY tame compared to today's... they were just as effective. Case in point... Way back in the day, circa 1978ish, I spent most of my summers at my grandparents in Otwell. Hung out with my cousins on lazy summer days that seemed to go on forever. Made some of the greatest childhood memories ever in that tiny town.
I had a major crush on this friend of my cousins who used to come and play with us. I thought he was the greatest thing on the planet. Oh so cute and so cool. It was the butterflies in your stomach and the sweaty palms kind of crush. One day we were all laying on a big blanket under the shade tree in my grandma's back yard; me, Chad, Ryan, Leah (my cousins) and Mike. We were talking and laughing, drinking Kool-aid and drawing pictures of our dream house. (Can't you just picture it as a classic Norman Rockwell painting. *sigh*)
Then came time for the big reveal... I'm sad to say I don't remember what I drew that day, or what Chad or Ryan or Leah drew either for that matter. But I do remember Mike's drawing. He drew a dog house. Your typical looking dog house. And above the door he wrote the word "Fido." We all laughed and thought it was funny, but then he said the words that still echo in my mind to this day.... wait for it folks...
It's way harsh...
"THIS is 'WHAT'S HER FACES' dream house!"
OOOOH man... and I'm sure you can guess that I was the "what's her face" to whom he was referring. DANG! Can't you just feel the pain of that poor 11 year old version of me. Scarred me for life... well sort of...
Ok not really, but I'd like for Mike to think it did. I have run into him on the rare occasion over the years... family funerals and such. And now I am happy to report that by the magical healing power that is Facebook... after 30 some years... he has apologized for scarring me emotionally, and we are friends. :)
Even though our insults seem WAY tame compared to today's... they were just as effective. Case in point... Way back in the day, circa 1978ish, I spent most of my summers at my grandparents in Otwell. Hung out with my cousins on lazy summer days that seemed to go on forever. Made some of the greatest childhood memories ever in that tiny town.
I had a major crush on this friend of my cousins who used to come and play with us. I thought he was the greatest thing on the planet. Oh so cute and so cool. It was the butterflies in your stomach and the sweaty palms kind of crush. One day we were all laying on a big blanket under the shade tree in my grandma's back yard; me, Chad, Ryan, Leah (my cousins) and Mike. We were talking and laughing, drinking Kool-aid and drawing pictures of our dream house. (Can't you just picture it as a classic Norman Rockwell painting. *sigh*)
Then came time for the big reveal... I'm sad to say I don't remember what I drew that day, or what Chad or Ryan or Leah drew either for that matter. But I do remember Mike's drawing. He drew a dog house. Your typical looking dog house. And above the door he wrote the word "Fido." We all laughed and thought it was funny, but then he said the words that still echo in my mind to this day.... wait for it folks...
It's way harsh...
"THIS is 'WHAT'S HER FACES' dream house!"
OOOOH man... and I'm sure you can guess that I was the "what's her face" to whom he was referring. DANG! Can't you just feel the pain of that poor 11 year old version of me. Scarred me for life... well sort of...
Ok not really, but I'd like for Mike to think it did. I have run into him on the rare occasion over the years... family funerals and such. And now I am happy to report that by the magical healing power that is Facebook... after 30 some years... he has apologized for scarring me emotionally, and we are friends. :)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
The best advice...
Teenage years bite. They really do. So does middle age.... but I digress.
Parenting two teenage boys can be trying at times. I'm sure not as trying as parenting even one teenage girl, but still a struggle on occasion. I'm so thankful not to have any huge issues with either one of my boys. They are just trying to figure out who they are, where they are going, and where their place is in this world. (I don't have the heart to tell them they will still be trying to figure that one out when they are 40:)
They are going to struggle, make mistakes, get their hearts broken, fail to fit in at times and so on. My job is just to be there to guide them on their journey, guard and protect them from what I can, and pick up the pieces when I can't.
A dear friend gave me a cd recently and the song "The Words I Would Say" by the Sidewalk Prophets was on it. (It is on my playlist if you want to hear it). I loved it immediately. Exactly what I would want to say to my boys. I have written the chorus and posted it on my boys mirror to remind them everyday...
Be strong in the Lord and
never give up hope
You're gonna do great things
I already know.
God's got his hand on you so
don't live life in fear
Forgive and forget
but don't forget why your here.
Take your time and pray
Thank God for each day
His love will find a way.
These are the words I would say...
Great advice for even us middle-agers... don't ya think
Friday, October 30, 2009
A Father's Love...
A son says to his father "Dad, would you be willing to run a marathon with me?"
The father, despite his age and heart disease says "YES"
And they run that marathon together.
The son asks, "Dad, can you run another marathon with me?"
Again, the father says "YES"
They run another marathon together.
One day the son says "Dad, would you please do the Iron Man with me?"
(Now just in case you wouldn't know, the Iron Man is the toughest triathlon in existance; a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike ride, and finally a 26 mile run - all in one day!)
Again, father says "YES"
Maybe this doesn't touch you yet... until you watch this video... (pause playlist first.)
As much as this father loves his son, how much more does your father in heaven love you...
The father, despite his age and heart disease says "YES"
And they run that marathon together.
The son asks, "Dad, can you run another marathon with me?"
Again, the father says "YES"
They run another marathon together.
One day the son says "Dad, would you please do the Iron Man with me?"
(Now just in case you wouldn't know, the Iron Man is the toughest triathlon in existance; a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike ride, and finally a 26 mile run - all in one day!)
Again, father says "YES"
Maybe this doesn't touch you yet... until you watch this video... (pause playlist first.)
As much as this father loves his son, how much more does your father in heaven love you...
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Adoration...
This is my favorite song right now. I listen to it over and over and over again. I tend to do that when I have a favorite. This video is kinda long, but the end is the best part! Pause my playlist and watch with an attitude of worship. It's powerful stuff.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
The Average Day...
Funny how when you are "tuned in" to God you find him everywhere. In the beauty of a fall morning, in the sleepy faces of your kids, in a text from a friend, in the verse of the day.... He will speak to you in so many ways if you just listen. All you have to do is intentionally focus on him as you go about your regular routine. I dare you to try it and I promise you will be amazed.
Even though our Crazy Love study has just begun, I am already feeling the crazy love. I can already see it will be life changing in the fact that it will challenge how we think about God and how we go about living each day. I am not a reader, but I am drinking in every word of this book. Just so ya know...It's $9 bucks on Amazon. $9 bucks to change your life... what a bargain.
This morning I read the following...
"you could die before you finish reading this chapter. I could die while you are reading it. Today. At any moment. But it's easy to think about today as just another day. An average day where you go about life concerned with your to-do list, preoccupied by appointments, focused on family, thinking about your desires and needs. On the average day, we live caught up in ourselves. On the average day, we don't consider God very much. On the average day, we forget that our life truly is a vapor."
Morbid thoughts over morning coffee??... I don't think so. Just another reminder we need to get our acts together and our priorities in order. In our next heartbeat, we could find ourselves standing in the throne room of God. On any average day. And as the author puts it... not only do we have to realize this, "we have to believe it enough that it changes how we live."... Word.
Even though our Crazy Love study has just begun, I am already feeling the crazy love. I can already see it will be life changing in the fact that it will challenge how we think about God and how we go about living each day. I am not a reader, but I am drinking in every word of this book. Just so ya know...It's $9 bucks on Amazon. $9 bucks to change your life... what a bargain.
This morning I read the following...
"you could die before you finish reading this chapter. I could die while you are reading it. Today. At any moment. But it's easy to think about today as just another day. An average day where you go about life concerned with your to-do list, preoccupied by appointments, focused on family, thinking about your desires and needs. On the average day, we live caught up in ourselves. On the average day, we don't consider God very much. On the average day, we forget that our life truly is a vapor."
Morbid thoughts over morning coffee??... I don't think so. Just another reminder we need to get our acts together and our priorities in order. In our next heartbeat, we could find ourselves standing in the throne room of God. On any average day. And as the author puts it... not only do we have to realize this, "we have to believe it enough that it changes how we live."... Word.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Monday Monday....
Monday is not my favorite day and Monday mornings are killer. Always takes a little more coffee and a little more time to get going. I think I'm showing my age here... Did anyone else notice how dark it still was at 7:00??
This should be a fairly easy week. Ya-Ya's tonight...we are starting the new Crazy Love study. Check it out at www.crazylovebook.com I think it is gonna be really great.
Austin's soccer is over, so I won't have to make two different trips to school for pick ups this week. One more week for Ethan...games are over and Sectional is Saturday. After that I wonder what he will do with himself from 3:30 on... On the plus side he will be able to get his homework done at a decent time...on the not so plus side, he will have an extra 2 1/2 hours to complain about being bored and hungry. Hmmm...did I really say I was glad soccer was over??
Lots to accomplish today... better get busy....OR maybe just a little more coffee first... :)
This should be a fairly easy week. Ya-Ya's tonight...we are starting the new Crazy Love study. Check it out at www.crazylovebook.com I think it is gonna be really great.
Austin's soccer is over, so I won't have to make two different trips to school for pick ups this week. One more week for Ethan...games are over and Sectional is Saturday. After that I wonder what he will do with himself from 3:30 on... On the plus side he will be able to get his homework done at a decent time...on the not so plus side, he will have an extra 2 1/2 hours to complain about being bored and hungry. Hmmm...did I really say I was glad soccer was over??
Lots to accomplish today... better get busy....OR maybe just a little more coffee first... :)
Friday, October 2, 2009
Things that make you go Hmmmm.....
Remember my post from yesterday.... got this on FB first thing this morning. (pause my playlist so you can hear)
Will you be left behind....
Will you be left behind....
Thursday, October 1, 2009
The power of a moment...
"What am I gonna be when I grow up? And how am I gonna make my mark in history? What are they gonna say about me when I'm gone? These are the questions that shape the way I think about what matters.
But I have no guarantee of my next heartbeat. And my world's too big to make a name for myself. And what if no one wants to read about me when I'm gone. Seems to me that right now's the only moment that matters.
You know the number of my days...so come paint your pictures on the canvas in my head and, come write your wisdom on my heart. Teach me the power of a moment...."
That was from one of my all time favorite songs by Chris Rice. Puts things in perspective for me. We are not guaranteed our next heartbeat. We could be called home in a moments notice. In the blink of an eye. Lately I am thinking about the big picture in that thought. We ALL could be called home...in the blink of an eye.
Do you ever think about the end of days. It's hard to watch the news and not think about it. Are we living in the end times?
As I typed that sentence, I received a text from Christy with the following verse... "However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don't know when they will happen, stay alert and keep watch." Mark 13:32-33 Whoa...what a God thing.
It goes on to say "The coming of the Son of Man can be compared with that of a man who has left home to go on a trip. He gave each of his employees instructions about the work they were to do, and he told the gatekeeper to watch for his return. So keep a sharp lookout! For you do not know when the homeowner will return - at evening, midnight, early dawn or late daybreak. Don't let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. What I say to you I say to everyone: Watch for his return!" Mark 13:34-37.
In the grand scheme of things, what really matters in your life. This life is fleeting. So many things we worry and stress about mean absolutely nothing. We need to be concerned about this very moment. Are you watching, or are you sleeping?
There is power in a moment. Every moment of every day we make choices. Choose to make the best of your moments. Months of planning go into a wedding, the birth of a child, a career change, etc... do you place the same importance on preparing for Christ's return, THE most important event in your life. It's results will last for eternity. Don't postpone your preparations. Study his word and live by its instructions each day...only then will you be ready. Be ready... Be watchful...
Obadiah 1:15 "The day is near when I, the Lord, will judge the godless nations..."
But I have no guarantee of my next heartbeat. And my world's too big to make a name for myself. And what if no one wants to read about me when I'm gone. Seems to me that right now's the only moment that matters.
You know the number of my days...so come paint your pictures on the canvas in my head and, come write your wisdom on my heart. Teach me the power of a moment...."
That was from one of my all time favorite songs by Chris Rice. Puts things in perspective for me. We are not guaranteed our next heartbeat. We could be called home in a moments notice. In the blink of an eye. Lately I am thinking about the big picture in that thought. We ALL could be called home...in the blink of an eye.
Do you ever think about the end of days. It's hard to watch the news and not think about it. Are we living in the end times?
As I typed that sentence, I received a text from Christy with the following verse... "However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don't know when they will happen, stay alert and keep watch." Mark 13:32-33 Whoa...what a God thing.
It goes on to say "The coming of the Son of Man can be compared with that of a man who has left home to go on a trip. He gave each of his employees instructions about the work they were to do, and he told the gatekeeper to watch for his return. So keep a sharp lookout! For you do not know when the homeowner will return - at evening, midnight, early dawn or late daybreak. Don't let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. What I say to you I say to everyone: Watch for his return!" Mark 13:34-37.
In the grand scheme of things, what really matters in your life. This life is fleeting. So many things we worry and stress about mean absolutely nothing. We need to be concerned about this very moment. Are you watching, or are you sleeping?
There is power in a moment. Every moment of every day we make choices. Choose to make the best of your moments. Months of planning go into a wedding, the birth of a child, a career change, etc... do you place the same importance on preparing for Christ's return, THE most important event in your life. It's results will last for eternity. Don't postpone your preparations. Study his word and live by its instructions each day...only then will you be ready. Be ready... Be watchful...
Obadiah 1:15 "The day is near when I, the Lord, will judge the godless nations..."
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
When September Ends....
How could this possibly be the last day of September...it just started.
With the end of September comes the end of the first grading period. It also marks the end of the jr. high soccer season for Austin. Last game tonight. It also signals the winding down of high school soccer for Ethan, with sectional just around the corner. I think we are all ready for it to be over.
Every morning these days I am looking out my front windows anxiously awaiting the changing of the leaves. I have an aboslutely beautiful view that I normally take for granted the rest of the year...but not in the fall. I think with the weather the way it has been, this fall will be a great one for color.
The persimmon tree out front is loaded down with persimmons. Dad and Kent will be glad to hear that. Persimmon pudding is a Thanksgiving tradition at the Burns house. We have gotten out the jackets and the long sleeves. Put flannel sheets on the beds. Being cold natured, like I tend to be, we have already had to run the furnace twice. Last year at the end of September, heck way into October, we were still swimming in the pool. I think Aaron may close it down this weekend.
And so it goes....let the winding down begin. Fall is my favorite!
With the end of September comes the end of the first grading period. It also marks the end of the jr. high soccer season for Austin. Last game tonight. It also signals the winding down of high school soccer for Ethan, with sectional just around the corner. I think we are all ready for it to be over.
Every morning these days I am looking out my front windows anxiously awaiting the changing of the leaves. I have an aboslutely beautiful view that I normally take for granted the rest of the year...but not in the fall. I think with the weather the way it has been, this fall will be a great one for color.
The persimmon tree out front is loaded down with persimmons. Dad and Kent will be glad to hear that. Persimmon pudding is a Thanksgiving tradition at the Burns house. We have gotten out the jackets and the long sleeves. Put flannel sheets on the beds. Being cold natured, like I tend to be, we have already had to run the furnace twice. Last year at the end of September, heck way into October, we were still swimming in the pool. I think Aaron may close it down this weekend.
And so it goes....let the winding down begin. Fall is my favorite!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
A little older...a little wiser...
My birthday was Saturday. I was working the Walk of course, so I didn't get to spend it with my family... but it was a great day!
At times when I would go back to my room there would be cards and gifts from my besties and texts from my family which was cool. Evan did not fail to remind me that I am now "Finding Myself at 42." Thanks Ev. But perhaps the coolest thing came from my dad.
Every single year on my birthday as far back as I can remember, my dad has told me the story of the day I was born. He was in Music Appreciation class at Oakland City College... someone came to get him to tell him mom had went into labor... and on and on...He goes to great detail to tell the whole thing. When I returned to my room for the night it was very, very late. I saw the flashing light on my phone and checked to find that dad had texted...in several texts.... the entire story. He did not leave out a single word. Must have taken him a long time. That meant the world to me.
I know God has great things in store for me as I start my 42nd year. I am thankful to be starting it with an even deeper relationship with Him. I believe working the Walk on my birthday was His gift to me. It was THE best present ever.
At times when I would go back to my room there would be cards and gifts from my besties and texts from my family which was cool. Evan did not fail to remind me that I am now "Finding Myself at 42." Thanks Ev. But perhaps the coolest thing came from my dad.
Every single year on my birthday as far back as I can remember, my dad has told me the story of the day I was born. He was in Music Appreciation class at Oakland City College... someone came to get him to tell him mom had went into labor... and on and on...He goes to great detail to tell the whole thing. When I returned to my room for the night it was very, very late. I saw the flashing light on my phone and checked to find that dad had texted...in several texts.... the entire story. He did not leave out a single word. Must have taken him a long time. That meant the world to me.
I know God has great things in store for me as I start my 42nd year. I am thankful to be starting it with an even deeper relationship with Him. I believe working the Walk on my birthday was His gift to me. It was THE best present ever.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Wow...
I really don't even know how to begin this post. I have been bowled over and swept off my feet so many times this past weekend. It was joyful...it was inspiring... it was heartwrenching... it was hilarious... it was every single emotion all rolled into one. God showed up and man did He show off. I love it when He does that. :)
I looked at the faces of the women as they arrived on Thursday night. I studied them. I saw the fear, the apprehension, the worry, and the extreme amount of burden they carried. I don't think I have ever seen that much burden in one place. Over the course of the 72 hours, I saw those expressions change. From a spark of interest, to an opening up, to a breaking down. I witnessed as they lay those burdens down at the foot of the cross and I am praying today that they never pick them back up. I stood in awe as COUNTLESS women - I lost count - confirmed or reconfirmed giving their lives to Christ. We were so very priviledged to watch these women's eyes be truly opened for the very first time to the incredible love and grace of Jesus that he has for each and every one of us. It was a humbling experience that I shared most intimatley with my asst. table leader and the 5 incredible ladies at our table. Man did He know what He was doing when he put all of us together. We all belong to Him.
Sharing this experience with my Ya-Ya's was beyond words. We have prayed over this weekend for so very long, then to finally be there and live it was more than I had ever imagined. Laying (yes I said laying) at the alter in prayer for these women with my dear sweet Christy and then seeing those prayers answered was a blessing I will cherish forever. Watching Susan go about her duties with such a pure heart for God blessed me in a way she will never quite understand. The times I got to see Annette in passing and give her a squeeze and an I love you were priceless. Seeing Andi in her tinkerbell jammies shuffle into the bathroom every morning is forever etched in my mind :) Sitting across from Shirl at the amazing meal on Saturday night and sharing that with her was humbling. (even tho our husbands did not include us in the Hot Wives club :) And Tami...wow. As she led us through this experience, when I looked at her I saw Jesus. Towards the end of the weekend she stood before us all and gave THE most amazing talk and then sang a song that perfectly conveyed her feelings for everyone there. She raised her hands at the end as she sang and I think it may have been one of the most powerful things I have ever seen. All the praying, and the hard work, and the organizing, and the hundreds and hundreds of hours she had put into this weekend all came to fruition in that moment. I loved it.
I spent the better part of my life searching for something to fill the void in my heart that kept me in depression and misery most of the time. I thank God for those that interceded in prayer on my behalf until my own eyes were finally opened on my Walk. I owe that experience to the prayers of my big brother. I remember vividly one day riding in the car with him and he was listening to a christian radio station. It freaked me out. I asked if he had become a religious fanatic. He laughed and said "define religious fanatic" I said "someone who reads the bible everyday" he laughed again and said "well sis... I guess that makes me a fanatic" Wow... to go from that to the relationship I have with the lord now has been quite a journey. It's far from over...and I am loving every minute of it.
I would love for everyone to have this experience. Pray about it. (If you have been on a Walk pray about someone you may be able to sponsor.) If you know someone who has previously been call them up and ask questions. If you don't know anyone who has been drop me an email. I would love to talk to you about it. And it's not just for women you know. There are men's weekends also. I got a different husband when Aaron returned from his weekend up in Indy. I hear the men cry more than the women do. :)
I leave you with a verse that struck a chord with me during the weekend... it is from John 15:5 "I am the vine and you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." Just like a branch that is cut from a tree and later withers and dies, so will we if we separate ourselves from Christ. Food for thought...
SIDEBAR...AFTER posting this, I read the verse of the day to your right... (which at the time I posted was this)... "I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you keep growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until Christ returns." Phillippians 1: 9-10 That is nothing but pure confirmation my friends straight from God to me this morning. Man... here comes the ugly cry.
I looked at the faces of the women as they arrived on Thursday night. I studied them. I saw the fear, the apprehension, the worry, and the extreme amount of burden they carried. I don't think I have ever seen that much burden in one place. Over the course of the 72 hours, I saw those expressions change. From a spark of interest, to an opening up, to a breaking down. I witnessed as they lay those burdens down at the foot of the cross and I am praying today that they never pick them back up. I stood in awe as COUNTLESS women - I lost count - confirmed or reconfirmed giving their lives to Christ. We were so very priviledged to watch these women's eyes be truly opened for the very first time to the incredible love and grace of Jesus that he has for each and every one of us. It was a humbling experience that I shared most intimatley with my asst. table leader and the 5 incredible ladies at our table. Man did He know what He was doing when he put all of us together. We all belong to Him.
Sharing this experience with my Ya-Ya's was beyond words. We have prayed over this weekend for so very long, then to finally be there and live it was more than I had ever imagined. Laying (yes I said laying) at the alter in prayer for these women with my dear sweet Christy and then seeing those prayers answered was a blessing I will cherish forever. Watching Susan go about her duties with such a pure heart for God blessed me in a way she will never quite understand. The times I got to see Annette in passing and give her a squeeze and an I love you were priceless. Seeing Andi in her tinkerbell jammies shuffle into the bathroom every morning is forever etched in my mind :) Sitting across from Shirl at the amazing meal on Saturday night and sharing that with her was humbling. (even tho our husbands did not include us in the Hot Wives club :) And Tami...wow. As she led us through this experience, when I looked at her I saw Jesus. Towards the end of the weekend she stood before us all and gave THE most amazing talk and then sang a song that perfectly conveyed her feelings for everyone there. She raised her hands at the end as she sang and I think it may have been one of the most powerful things I have ever seen. All the praying, and the hard work, and the organizing, and the hundreds and hundreds of hours she had put into this weekend all came to fruition in that moment. I loved it.
I spent the better part of my life searching for something to fill the void in my heart that kept me in depression and misery most of the time. I thank God for those that interceded in prayer on my behalf until my own eyes were finally opened on my Walk. I owe that experience to the prayers of my big brother. I remember vividly one day riding in the car with him and he was listening to a christian radio station. It freaked me out. I asked if he had become a religious fanatic. He laughed and said "define religious fanatic" I said "someone who reads the bible everyday" he laughed again and said "well sis... I guess that makes me a fanatic" Wow... to go from that to the relationship I have with the lord now has been quite a journey. It's far from over...and I am loving every minute of it.
I would love for everyone to have this experience. Pray about it. (If you have been on a Walk pray about someone you may be able to sponsor.) If you know someone who has previously been call them up and ask questions. If you don't know anyone who has been drop me an email. I would love to talk to you about it. And it's not just for women you know. There are men's weekends also. I got a different husband when Aaron returned from his weekend up in Indy. I hear the men cry more than the women do. :)
I leave you with a verse that struck a chord with me during the weekend... it is from John 15:5 "I am the vine and you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." Just like a branch that is cut from a tree and later withers and dies, so will we if we separate ourselves from Christ. Food for thought...
SIDEBAR...AFTER posting this, I read the verse of the day to your right... (which at the time I posted was this)... "I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you keep growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until Christ returns." Phillippians 1: 9-10 That is nothing but pure confirmation my friends straight from God to me this morning. Man... here comes the ugly cry.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Final Post...
... not really.... just for a few days. :)
Tomorrow begins Southwest Indiana Walk to Emmaus #39! Starting at 5:00, 52 team members and 44 women from all walks of life will begin an incredible life changing journey. 72 hours in the presence of the Lord. Unless you have been, you can't even imagine. I HIGHLY remcommend it.
Counting my own walk, this will be my 4th Walk experience and I can tell you this...every walk is a bit different, BUT one thing is the same...Jesus always shows up. He will be in the faces and hearts of all those coming together to make this weekend happen. Pray that these women will be able to see Him and feel Him and be open to what He has in store for each and every one of them.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness and into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9
Tomorrow begins Southwest Indiana Walk to Emmaus #39! Starting at 5:00, 52 team members and 44 women from all walks of life will begin an incredible life changing journey. 72 hours in the presence of the Lord. Unless you have been, you can't even imagine. I HIGHLY remcommend it.
Counting my own walk, this will be my 4th Walk experience and I can tell you this...every walk is a bit different, BUT one thing is the same...Jesus always shows up. He will be in the faces and hearts of all those coming together to make this weekend happen. Pray that these women will be able to see Him and feel Him and be open to what He has in store for each and every one of them.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness and into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9
Friday, September 11, 2009
Finally Friday..
This "short" week has been a long week in my opinion. SO much to try to fit in. Since my last post, Aaron and I celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary. (That is hard to get my mind around.) We spent Labor Day weekend at my dad's with the family (Had an awesome time!) And we had our last team formation for Southwest Indiana Walk to Emmaus #39!! (Hard to believe it's here! Woo Hoo)
The lord has revealed a great deal to me over the last several weeks. He has reminded me that when I have no strength left to go on, He will carry me. That when worry begins to enter my mind, He will take care of it. That when people hurt or disappoint me, I can find forgiveness. That none of us should complain about our lives because others are going thru unspeakable pain. That there is nothing that can quite compare to the Body of Christ praying together in unison. That He be can praised in ALL things and ALL situations.
A friend from our team of the upcoming walk lost her brother-in-law yesterday to a battle with cancer. He was diagnosed this past January. He was only 40 years old. He never had a chance to "find himself at 40." He and his wife also lost a two year old to a brain tumor several years ago. So much pain for one family to bear. As I would read the emails and the posts on his caring bridge site about his failing condition my heart would ache. I could picture myself, sitting at a hospital bed in my living room, holding my husbands hand and I could feel the magnitude of that situation. They have a 13 year old boy. I thought about what it would do to my 13 year old to watch that happen to his dad. Doesn't that kind of put your whole life in perspective.
Throughout this most difficult, unimaginable time, that family never once... not for a single minute stopped praising God. Never Once. What a testiment to their faith. They were so completely confident that Kevin's healing would come. If not on this earth, then in Heaven. And they were ok. I could never do justice in conveying the complete and total faith that this family has. I would encourage you to go to his site and read his journal. www.caringbridge.org/visit/kevinking/journal
You will be blessed more than you can imagine.
A dear old friend posted on facebook this morning "we are only one phone call away from falling on our face before Him." Man...that's heavy stuff. Where are you on your journey. Do you have a personal relationship with our lord and saviour Jesus Christ. I'm not talking "yes, I go to church every Sunday" I am talking a REAL relationship. There is a huge difference. Pews are full of people who will never make it into heaven. Are you one of them. Do you have a daily walk with Him, or only think of Him when times are difficult. I challenge you to really examine your life. Will you be prepared when you get that phone call. Will you be prepared if someone else gets that phone call about you.
The last words that Kevin had his wife type on his caring bridge site on Sept. 1st were these... "Live, love, and abide by God's glorious commandments. Good Night and have a blessed day tomorrow. Love, Kevin."
The lord has revealed a great deal to me over the last several weeks. He has reminded me that when I have no strength left to go on, He will carry me. That when worry begins to enter my mind, He will take care of it. That when people hurt or disappoint me, I can find forgiveness. That none of us should complain about our lives because others are going thru unspeakable pain. That there is nothing that can quite compare to the Body of Christ praying together in unison. That He be can praised in ALL things and ALL situations.
A friend from our team of the upcoming walk lost her brother-in-law yesterday to a battle with cancer. He was diagnosed this past January. He was only 40 years old. He never had a chance to "find himself at 40." He and his wife also lost a two year old to a brain tumor several years ago. So much pain for one family to bear. As I would read the emails and the posts on his caring bridge site about his failing condition my heart would ache. I could picture myself, sitting at a hospital bed in my living room, holding my husbands hand and I could feel the magnitude of that situation. They have a 13 year old boy. I thought about what it would do to my 13 year old to watch that happen to his dad. Doesn't that kind of put your whole life in perspective.
Throughout this most difficult, unimaginable time, that family never once... not for a single minute stopped praising God. Never Once. What a testiment to their faith. They were so completely confident that Kevin's healing would come. If not on this earth, then in Heaven. And they were ok. I could never do justice in conveying the complete and total faith that this family has. I would encourage you to go to his site and read his journal. www.caringbridge.org/visit/kevinking/journal
You will be blessed more than you can imagine.
A dear old friend posted on facebook this morning "we are only one phone call away from falling on our face before Him." Man...that's heavy stuff. Where are you on your journey. Do you have a personal relationship with our lord and saviour Jesus Christ. I'm not talking "yes, I go to church every Sunday" I am talking a REAL relationship. There is a huge difference. Pews are full of people who will never make it into heaven. Are you one of them. Do you have a daily walk with Him, or only think of Him when times are difficult. I challenge you to really examine your life. Will you be prepared when you get that phone call. Will you be prepared if someone else gets that phone call about you.
The last words that Kevin had his wife type on his caring bridge site on Sept. 1st were these... "Live, love, and abide by God's glorious commandments. Good Night and have a blessed day tomorrow. Love, Kevin."
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Happy Birthday Jaden!
Jaden put the "Labor" in Labor Day six years ago. It was nice that he was born on a holiday, because the ENTIRE family was able to be there. He spent his first hour being passed around among a dozen people or so. It was really cool. His big brothers were so proud of him.
Today he is spending his birthday at school. Another "first" to deal with. He wanted me to make brownies for his class, since he isn't a cake person. I told him I would bring them out for his classroom party this afternoon. His reply, "you really don't have to come mom." I said "it's ok Jaden, I want to come" thinking awww, he is worried about how busy I am and doesn't want to inconvenience me. How sweet. But then he said it again. And then a third time. Finally I asked..."Jaden do you not want me to come?" He tried his best to be diplomatic, but DANG... another dagger to mom's heart.
So I will honor his wishes and miss the classroom party today. This one seems to be growing up at lightening speed. Little mister independent. I don't like it a bit.
Today he is spending his birthday at school. Another "first" to deal with. He wanted me to make brownies for his class, since he isn't a cake person. I told him I would bring them out for his classroom party this afternoon. His reply, "you really don't have to come mom." I said "it's ok Jaden, I want to come" thinking awww, he is worried about how busy I am and doesn't want to inconvenience me. How sweet. But then he said it again. And then a third time. Finally I asked..."Jaden do you not want me to come?" He tried his best to be diplomatic, but DANG... another dagger to mom's heart.
So I will honor his wishes and miss the classroom party today. This one seems to be growing up at lightening speed. Little mister independent. I don't like it a bit.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Catching up...
I love being caught up don't you. Caught up with the laundry. Caught up on the housework. Caught up in a moment... Getting caught up with old friends, especially ones you haven't seen or heard from in years... can't beat it.
I haven't blogged much lately as you may have noticed. Do you even need to ask why? I simply cannot get caught up with the chaos that is my life. In fact, it is physically impossible for me to get caught up at this point in time. Way to much going on. Take the usual stuff that you poor readers get to hear me vent about and add back to school, a kid with mono, a kid with a bad cold, and a kid with endless soccer games, and a kid with an upcoming birthday... coupled with preparing to work an Emmaus Walk and trying to keep my head above water business wise. Man... I am SO not ever gonna get caught up. SO, I am going to quit trying and just go with the flow.
Here are a few "catch up" facts for new readers who are interested in the where abouts of the family...and for those readers who maybe had lost track...
Mom moved to Indy six years ago next month, the same month that Jaden was born. That was a bummer...BUT Greg was working up there so it pretty much had to happen. She lives in the Castleton area. I get up there with the kids usually in March for spring break and October for fall break. A getaway for the kids and I get to shop by myself! She, on the other hand, comes down here every other week... gotta see her babies. I am so thankful for that.
Dad is still in Jasper. He and Julie are still operating Pieper-Burns State Farm after 23 years. Dad is still Dad...he never changes. My baby brother Evan will be 22 in November and is a Senior at IU this year. He is one amazing kid.
Kent is up in Carmel. Village of West Clay, to be exact. Super successful of course. Check him out at www.kentburnsonline.com. Haley is up around IUPUI, Max is a senior and Abby is in the second grade. I don't get to see him near as often as I would like, usually 5 times a year or so, but we do text eachother about every other day.
Grandma Burns is 93 and going strong! Still lives alone, still cruises Jasper, and can often be found hanging out at walmart. Isn't that wild.
As for me...there are plenty of posts on this blog to give you the lowdown... 151 to be exact. One night I couldn't sleep and read them all. Got "caught up" on the past year or so. Amazing what you forget in a year's time.
Playing catch up bites... but getting caught up is awesome. I highly recommend it.
I haven't blogged much lately as you may have noticed. Do you even need to ask why? I simply cannot get caught up with the chaos that is my life. In fact, it is physically impossible for me to get caught up at this point in time. Way to much going on. Take the usual stuff that you poor readers get to hear me vent about and add back to school, a kid with mono, a kid with a bad cold, and a kid with endless soccer games, and a kid with an upcoming birthday... coupled with preparing to work an Emmaus Walk and trying to keep my head above water business wise. Man... I am SO not ever gonna get caught up. SO, I am going to quit trying and just go with the flow.
Here are a few "catch up" facts for new readers who are interested in the where abouts of the family...and for those readers who maybe had lost track...
Mom moved to Indy six years ago next month, the same month that Jaden was born. That was a bummer...BUT Greg was working up there so it pretty much had to happen. She lives in the Castleton area. I get up there with the kids usually in March for spring break and October for fall break. A getaway for the kids and I get to shop by myself! She, on the other hand, comes down here every other week... gotta see her babies. I am so thankful for that.
Dad is still in Jasper. He and Julie are still operating Pieper-Burns State Farm after 23 years. Dad is still Dad...he never changes. My baby brother Evan will be 22 in November and is a Senior at IU this year. He is one amazing kid.
Kent is up in Carmel. Village of West Clay, to be exact. Super successful of course. Check him out at www.kentburnsonline.com. Haley is up around IUPUI, Max is a senior and Abby is in the second grade. I don't get to see him near as often as I would like, usually 5 times a year or so, but we do text eachother about every other day.
Grandma Burns is 93 and going strong! Still lives alone, still cruises Jasper, and can often be found hanging out at walmart. Isn't that wild.
As for me...there are plenty of posts on this blog to give you the lowdown... 151 to be exact. One night I couldn't sleep and read them all. Got "caught up" on the past year or so. Amazing what you forget in a year's time.
Playing catch up bites... but getting caught up is awesome. I highly recommend it.
Friday, August 14, 2009
First Day...
It's done... It was just as bad as I had feared... worse actually.
I was weepy on the drive there, but under control. We pulled into the parking lot and all piled out of the van. My big boys both hugged me and kissed me and man that's all it took. Bring on the waterworks. They walked away and I couldn't watch.
I managed to gain control by the time I got into the building with Jaden. We hung up his things and went to his seat. There was a picture there for him to color. He sat down and I sat down in his seat with him and he began coloring.
I tried to think of everything I needed to tell him, even though I have tried my best for the last almost 6 years to teach him everything he needs to know. I reminded him to raise his hand in the cafeteria if he has trouble getting things open in his lunch. I'm worried about that. I told him over and over and over that I loved him and he was going to have a great day.
I tried so hard to choke it back, but I failed. I sat there in that tiny seat and hugged him and cried....and I didn't care.
I cried all the way to the van and then had the big ugly cry for the next half hour or so. As I type this I am holding my baby girl who wants to know where Jaden is and how long till he gets home. Gonna be a long day.
I was weepy on the drive there, but under control. We pulled into the parking lot and all piled out of the van. My big boys both hugged me and kissed me and man that's all it took. Bring on the waterworks. They walked away and I couldn't watch.
I managed to gain control by the time I got into the building with Jaden. We hung up his things and went to his seat. There was a picture there for him to color. He sat down and I sat down in his seat with him and he began coloring.
I tried to think of everything I needed to tell him, even though I have tried my best for the last almost 6 years to teach him everything he needs to know. I reminded him to raise his hand in the cafeteria if he has trouble getting things open in his lunch. I'm worried about that. I told him over and over and over that I loved him and he was going to have a great day.
I tried so hard to choke it back, but I failed. I sat there in that tiny seat and hugged him and cried....and I didn't care.
I cried all the way to the van and then had the big ugly cry for the next half hour or so. As I type this I am holding my baby girl who wants to know where Jaden is and how long till he gets home. Gonna be a long day.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Point of no return...
It's almost 8:00. I happen to have few minutes of peace and quiet, on this, the eve of the day I have dreaded for the last year.
In a few minutes, they will all pile in the back door from their various practices and activites. I will head them all to the bathtub and showers. We will pick out clothes and get backpacks and supplies in order. I will look at my big boys and see each one as the tiny boys that I knew long ago, even though now I have to look up at both of them. I will look at my J and wonder where the last five years went. Seems like I was carrying him on my hip only yesterday. And I will look at my precious baby girl and thank god he gave me one more to hold onto a little while longer.
I am choking back tears already my friends. Typing this through cloudy vision. I know they all grow up but man, I tell ya, every year it gets a little harder to accept. Four short years is all I have left with Ethan. It will be over in a flash. I am also thinking of my dear friends who are sending their babies off to start their senior year and of friends who are sending their last baby and will come home to an empty house for the first time. My heart breaks for them too. Letting go stinks... But, despite these sad moments, that inevitably come, what joy surrounds me in this house. What a privledge and honor it is to be a mom to such wonderful kids. God gave me four gifts... and I am so thankful.
In a few minutes, they will all pile in the back door from their various practices and activites. I will head them all to the bathtub and showers. We will pick out clothes and get backpacks and supplies in order. I will look at my big boys and see each one as the tiny boys that I knew long ago, even though now I have to look up at both of them. I will look at my J and wonder where the last five years went. Seems like I was carrying him on my hip only yesterday. And I will look at my precious baby girl and thank god he gave me one more to hold onto a little while longer.
I am choking back tears already my friends. Typing this through cloudy vision. I know they all grow up but man, I tell ya, every year it gets a little harder to accept. Four short years is all I have left with Ethan. It will be over in a flash. I am also thinking of my dear friends who are sending their babies off to start their senior year and of friends who are sending their last baby and will come home to an empty house for the first time. My heart breaks for them too. Letting go stinks... But, despite these sad moments, that inevitably come, what joy surrounds me in this house. What a privledge and honor it is to be a mom to such wonderful kids. God gave me four gifts... and I am so thankful.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Women of Faith!
My girls and I returned home yesterday from our second annual Ya Ya trip to Women of Faith. If you have never been, you are truly missing out. 12,000 women in one arena all coming together in Christ to share and laugh and cry and rejoice. The speakers were outstanding as usual. Stephen Curtis Chapman literally took our breath away and left us speechless on Friday night. (He is my fave, in case I never mentioned it :) Mandisa, and Lisa Welchel (Facts of Life) and Patsy Clairmont, and Marilyn Meeburg, and all the others were equally as inspiring. Everyone has a story my friends, and none of us are alone.
I forgot my camera! But here is a pic we had taken while there.
My favorite Farhar and My favorite Fields (Christy's sister Andi)
Shirley and Tami...love those crazy gals
Me and my precious pals Susan and Annette
I forgot my camera! But here is a pic we had taken while there.
My favorite Farhar and My favorite Fields (Christy's sister Andi)
Shirley and Tami...love those crazy gals
Me and my precious pals Susan and Annette
Monday, July 27, 2009
Life lessons...
I was told it was time for a blog... didn't realize it had been so long. I continue to be amazed at how fast time is passing. The busier I am, the faster it goes. The older I get, the bigger the blur. Not fair.
The dreaded day is fast approaching. I have begun the enforcement of my annual self-imposed back to school boycott. I will stand firm and refuse to buy anything school related... I will let the scheduled days for book rental come and go without stepping foot in the door of the school... I will refuse to talk about the impending doom that is to come at 8:10 on Friday August 14th. On that note... I am changing the subject :)
I am working really hard this summer on loosening the apron strings as far as my older boys are concerned. They are, after all, 13 1/2 and 15. They both have level heads and make wise decisions. It's time they branched out a bit, right?? Last night as they, along with six other boys swam in the pool, some of them were making plans to go four wheeling at a place in Jackson County. Two of the boys ever so cautiously approached Aaron and I and asked if our boys could go. I almost laughed out loud.
It is no secret to me that we are known as the "strict" parents, and some of these boys think we are downright mean for not letting our kids do what other kids do. I am SO fine with that, you wouldn't believe it... BUT this time I felt it was ok to say yes and felt that they deserved to get to go. I think my boys were in shock.
So, after lecturing them till there ears bled...they loaded up this morning and off they went. Dirtbikes, four wheelers, coolers...eight people in all. Amazingly, and prayerfully, I felt calm and at peace with my decision as they pulled out of the drive.
Fast forward a short couple of hours and I get a text telling me one of the boys had had a bad wreck and was not wearing a helmet! In the middle of nowhere they had to run up and down hills to find service to call 911 and wait 20 minutes or so for an ambulance to get to them, all the while trying to keep this boy from moving, watching his face bleed and swell before their eyes.
Verdict was a concussion, broken shoulder, broken wrist, torn up face but no broken facial bones. Amazing it wasn't worse. All the kids were pretty shook up by the incident, but man what a lesson they all learned.
I initially beat myself up for letting my boys go in the first place... what if this had been one of them... how would I live with that knowing I put them in that position in the first place. It was then God whispered in my ear...
Your boys are growing up. Your relationship is naturally transforming. You are not always going to be there to protect them... but I will. Trust that you have raised them to this point to the best of your ability and know that they both have a stong relationship with Me and are stong in their faith. Even when your eyes are not on them... My eyes are. Even when your voice is not in their ear telling them to be careful...My voice is. And even though they are no longer totally dependent on You, they both understand that they are dependent on Me. Even though you have to start to let go... I never will...
My boys are growing up... I am ever so slowly letting go... and I am at peace....
The dreaded day is fast approaching. I have begun the enforcement of my annual self-imposed back to school boycott. I will stand firm and refuse to buy anything school related... I will let the scheduled days for book rental come and go without stepping foot in the door of the school... I will refuse to talk about the impending doom that is to come at 8:10 on Friday August 14th. On that note... I am changing the subject :)
I am working really hard this summer on loosening the apron strings as far as my older boys are concerned. They are, after all, 13 1/2 and 15. They both have level heads and make wise decisions. It's time they branched out a bit, right?? Last night as they, along with six other boys swam in the pool, some of them were making plans to go four wheeling at a place in Jackson County. Two of the boys ever so cautiously approached Aaron and I and asked if our boys could go. I almost laughed out loud.
It is no secret to me that we are known as the "strict" parents, and some of these boys think we are downright mean for not letting our kids do what other kids do. I am SO fine with that, you wouldn't believe it... BUT this time I felt it was ok to say yes and felt that they deserved to get to go. I think my boys were in shock.
So, after lecturing them till there ears bled...they loaded up this morning and off they went. Dirtbikes, four wheelers, coolers...eight people in all. Amazingly, and prayerfully, I felt calm and at peace with my decision as they pulled out of the drive.
Fast forward a short couple of hours and I get a text telling me one of the boys had had a bad wreck and was not wearing a helmet! In the middle of nowhere they had to run up and down hills to find service to call 911 and wait 20 minutes or so for an ambulance to get to them, all the while trying to keep this boy from moving, watching his face bleed and swell before their eyes.
Verdict was a concussion, broken shoulder, broken wrist, torn up face but no broken facial bones. Amazing it wasn't worse. All the kids were pretty shook up by the incident, but man what a lesson they all learned.
I initially beat myself up for letting my boys go in the first place... what if this had been one of them... how would I live with that knowing I put them in that position in the first place. It was then God whispered in my ear...
Your boys are growing up. Your relationship is naturally transforming. You are not always going to be there to protect them... but I will. Trust that you have raised them to this point to the best of your ability and know that they both have a stong relationship with Me and are stong in their faith. Even when your eyes are not on them... My eyes are. Even when your voice is not in their ear telling them to be careful...My voice is. And even though they are no longer totally dependent on You, they both understand that they are dependent on Me. Even though you have to start to let go... I never will...
My boys are growing up... I am ever so slowly letting go... and I am at peace....
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Celebrity Guest Blogger....
Got this from my mom earlier in the week. Thought it would make a great post...
Hope...
Hope you are okay,
hope you had a good night,
hope you don't have too much work today,
hope Ava is even better,
hope your heart is calming down,
hope you are happy in the midst of your busy life,
hope you will take care of yourself and your family first,
hope you are talking to your Father in heaven everyday many times,
hope your business will take a real break soon,
hope you know your brother still says you're a queer,
hope you know what a great person you are,
hope you know how loved you are,
hope you know how proud I am of you,
hope you know I love you just as much as you love those precious kids of yours!!!
Is my mom the greatest or what??!!
Hope...
Hope you are okay,
hope you had a good night,
hope you don't have too much work today,
hope Ava is even better,
hope your heart is calming down,
hope you are happy in the midst of your busy life,
hope you will take care of yourself and your family first,
hope you are talking to your Father in heaven everyday many times,
hope your business will take a real break soon,
hope you know your brother still says you're a queer,
hope you know what a great person you are,
hope you know how loved you are,
hope you know how proud I am of you,
hope you know I love you just as much as you love those precious kids of yours!!!
Is my mom the greatest or what??!!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Thinking Thursday...
K... Got 5 minutes here.... just took Ethan to band camp....kids still in bed...here are some random thoughts running through my mind this mornin.
I think it is absolutely INSANE that it is July already...what happened to May and June?
I think I will never, ever, ever take another vacation in June in the midst of all-stars and catfish... the aftermath is literally killing me.
I think I may or may not be geared up for the fest...if I could quit working long enough maybe I could decide.
I think it is awesome that our boys Babe Ruth team is #1 in their division...and the tourney win at Bloomfield was SWEET!
I think it is my own fault that I am back on the heart monitor...no down time/too much stress = an unhappy ticker.
I think Susan is THE best massage therapist in the world (for sure the county :)...and she makes house calls! (still feelin great susie q)
I think I am FIRED UP my mom comes today AND is gettin to spend the night...and that Greg is well enough to spend one night on his own.
I think I miss my brothers somethin' fierce...thanks for the call last night Ev, hope you make it down tonight.
I think the fact that my first born can operate a motor vehicle leagally is freakin me out...man I am gettin old.
I think I got WAY to much to accomplish today...better get busy.
"You can rest...you will find rest...Let this old life crumble, let it fade. Let this new life offer be your saving grace....let this old life crumble...let it fade"
I think it is absolutely INSANE that it is July already...what happened to May and June?
I think I will never, ever, ever take another vacation in June in the midst of all-stars and catfish... the aftermath is literally killing me.
I think I may or may not be geared up for the fest...if I could quit working long enough maybe I could decide.
I think it is awesome that our boys Babe Ruth team is #1 in their division...and the tourney win at Bloomfield was SWEET!
I think it is my own fault that I am back on the heart monitor...no down time/too much stress = an unhappy ticker.
I think Susan is THE best massage therapist in the world (for sure the county :)...and she makes house calls! (still feelin great susie q)
I think I am FIRED UP my mom comes today AND is gettin to spend the night...and that Greg is well enough to spend one night on his own.
I think I miss my brothers somethin' fierce...thanks for the call last night Ev, hope you make it down tonight.
I think the fact that my first born can operate a motor vehicle leagally is freakin me out...man I am gettin old.
I think I got WAY to much to accomplish today...better get busy.
"You can rest...you will find rest...Let this old life crumble, let it fade. Let this new life offer be your saving grace....let this old life crumble...let it fade"
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Ode to Chang....
Chang came into our lives nine months ago. During that time our family has come to love him. Such a great spirit and all around good kid. Today it was time for him to return to South Korea. I have to admit it was tough watching him walk away not knowing for sure if we will see him again. He has called Christy several times updating her as he travels. Right now as I type he is on a plane to Japan. Will make it there about 1:00 tomorrow morning. Then it's onto another plane to South Korea and he should arrive home somewhere around 8:30 tomorrow morning. Wow...that's a long haul.
It's cool to know we have a bond with someone half way around the world. Someone from a totally different culture. My boys are especially sad. Ethan says he doesn't remember what life was like before him. Can't imagine how weird it is around the Farhar house right now.
So here are some of my favorite pics of Chang... and you know the next best thing to having him here.... FACEBOOK!!! (have I mentioned I love facebook :) He is all set up and adding friends, so in some ways, it will be like he never left!
It's cool to know we have a bond with someone half way around the world. Someone from a totally different culture. My boys are especially sad. Ethan says he doesn't remember what life was like before him. Can't imagine how weird it is around the Farhar house right now.
So here are some of my favorite pics of Chang... and you know the next best thing to having him here.... FACEBOOK!!! (have I mentioned I love facebook :) He is all set up and adding friends, so in some ways, it will be like he never left!
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Friday, June 5, 2009
Friday looking forward...
This week has flown by...
Looking forward to much needed haircuts for 5 this morning... pretty shaggy round here.
Looking forward to our going away pool party for Chang tonight... man we are gonna miss that kid.
Looking forward to leaving for Florida a week from Sunday... South Seas Resort here we come!
Looking forward to spending some time with no kids and no work... I'll believe it when we get there.
Looking forward to completing the 18+ HUGE orders we've got going before we leave... can we pull that off??
Looking forward to seeing my mom...whenever that is :(
Looking forward to seeing Evan... I hope he makes it down this weekend.
Looking forward to another text from my dad on his new iphone... hilarious!
Looking forward to Ethan and Austin's first babe ruth game... nice to have them both on the same team!
Looking forward to Ethan's first day of Driver's Ed... not really, but he thinks I am. :)
Looking forward to meeting with my Ya Ya's next week... I LOVE that crazy bunch!
Looking WAY forward to Southwest Indiana Walk to Emmaus #39... Can't even imagine how awesome that is gonna be!
Feeling very fortunate to be able to look forward...
Looking forward to much needed haircuts for 5 this morning... pretty shaggy round here.
Looking forward to our going away pool party for Chang tonight... man we are gonna miss that kid.
Looking forward to leaving for Florida a week from Sunday... South Seas Resort here we come!
Looking forward to spending some time with no kids and no work... I'll believe it when we get there.
Looking forward to completing the 18+ HUGE orders we've got going before we leave... can we pull that off??
Looking forward to seeing my mom...whenever that is :(
Looking forward to seeing Evan... I hope he makes it down this weekend.
Looking forward to another text from my dad on his new iphone... hilarious!
Looking forward to Ethan and Austin's first babe ruth game... nice to have them both on the same team!
Looking forward to Ethan's first day of Driver's Ed... not really, but he thinks I am. :)
Looking forward to meeting with my Ya Ya's next week... I LOVE that crazy bunch!
Looking WAY forward to Southwest Indiana Walk to Emmaus #39... Can't even imagine how awesome that is gonna be!
Feeling very fortunate to be able to look forward...
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Tuesday tutorial...
Here's a little info via the ABC's of yours truly...
Age: 41 and Fab of course...
Bed Size: Queen size sleep number bed... best money we ever spent!
Chore I hate: All of them! That's why they're called chores and not parties...
Dogs name: Speedy... god rest his soul... also have a cat named meow meow
Essential start your day item: Coffee and more coffee
Favorite color: sometimes blue, sometimes pink
Gold or Silver: Gold AND Silver
Height: 5'4" and Aaron swears I'm already shrinking... :(
Instruments I play: A little piano... a tad bit guitar
Job title: Wife, Mom, Nurse, Educator, Business owner... take your pick
Kids: LOTS! 4 angels on earth and 1 in heaven
Living Arrangements: Same house we built back in 95
Mom's Name: Madelyn :)
Nicknames: "P" or "Aunt P"... long story... "Queer" to my loving older brother :) "Sissy" to my favorite baby brother :)
Overnight Hospital Stays: Too many to mention
Pet Peeves: I have serious road rage issues...
Quarter Pounder or Happy meal: Happy Meal!
Right or left handed: Right
Siblings: Older brother Kent, Younger brother Evan, step-brother Travis
Time I wake up: Everytime Ava yells...
Underwear: Uh... yes?
Verse I Love: Jeremiah 29:11
Ways I run late: Kids, kids and more kids
X-rays I've had: lots and lots
Yummy food I make: Aaron says I am the master pie maker
Zoo favorite: Lions and Tigers and Bears... oh my
Age: 41 and Fab of course...
Bed Size: Queen size sleep number bed... best money we ever spent!
Chore I hate: All of them! That's why they're called chores and not parties...
Dogs name: Speedy... god rest his soul... also have a cat named meow meow
Essential start your day item: Coffee and more coffee
Favorite color: sometimes blue, sometimes pink
Gold or Silver: Gold AND Silver
Height: 5'4" and Aaron swears I'm already shrinking... :(
Instruments I play: A little piano... a tad bit guitar
Job title: Wife, Mom, Nurse, Educator, Business owner... take your pick
Kids: LOTS! 4 angels on earth and 1 in heaven
Living Arrangements: Same house we built back in 95
Mom's Name: Madelyn :)
Nicknames: "P" or "Aunt P"... long story... "Queer" to my loving older brother :) "Sissy" to my favorite baby brother :)
Overnight Hospital Stays: Too many to mention
Pet Peeves: I have serious road rage issues...
Quarter Pounder or Happy meal: Happy Meal!
Right or left handed: Right
Siblings: Older brother Kent, Younger brother Evan, step-brother Travis
Time I wake up: Everytime Ava yells...
Underwear: Uh... yes?
Verse I Love: Jeremiah 29:11
Ways I run late: Kids, kids and more kids
X-rays I've had: lots and lots
Yummy food I make: Aaron says I am the master pie maker
Zoo favorite: Lions and Tigers and Bears... oh my
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Chapter closed...
Time for me to get sentimental again... last day of school and all. This morning, Austin headed out for his last day of elementary, Ethan for his last day in jr. high. Man this year went entirely to fast. Seems like only yesterday I was dreading the first day of school :) Remember this POST
Here they are back in August...
And here they are this morning...
Both a little taller (well Ethan a LOT taller) and a little wiser.
Austin finishes up K-6 with all A's and only one B+ on his record (drat that ONE 5th grade reading test!) Ethan made it through Jr. High...Algebra 1 and all...with straight A's. They worked hard and it paid off for both of them. Honors program for Austin today and Ethan tonight. We could not be more proud.
If you follow my blog, you know I have been freaking since the first day of school THIS year about the prospect of the first day of school NEXT year... when one starts high school, one starts jr. high, and one starts kindergarten. It continues to stress me friends. Before I know it, this summer will be all but a blur, and I will be making that dreaded early morning drive..... can't go there today :(
Until then, I plan on enjoying my kids as much as possible all summer long. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the last day of school!!
Here they are back in August...
And here they are this morning...
Both a little taller (well Ethan a LOT taller) and a little wiser.
Austin finishes up K-6 with all A's and only one B+ on his record (drat that ONE 5th grade reading test!) Ethan made it through Jr. High...Algebra 1 and all...with straight A's. They worked hard and it paid off for both of them. Honors program for Austin today and Ethan tonight. We could not be more proud.
If you follow my blog, you know I have been freaking since the first day of school THIS year about the prospect of the first day of school NEXT year... when one starts high school, one starts jr. high, and one starts kindergarten. It continues to stress me friends. Before I know it, this summer will be all but a blur, and I will be making that dreaded early morning drive..... can't go there today :(
Until then, I plan on enjoying my kids as much as possible all summer long. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the last day of school!!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Playing Catch Up...
Man, this is a busy time of year! Preschool graduation, Beta Induction, band practice, Fine Arts Night, Band Awards and on and on and on. No time to blog...as the blogger police so kindly pointed out:) I can see the light though. Only 5 days of school left. BUT that also means all four kids will be home 24/7, pony league will be starting for the big boys, driver's ed for Ethan in a couple weeks, vacation, tournament time.... Hmmm maybe it's not gonna slow down after all.
Here are some pics from recent events
Jaden ready to go to graduation
The three Shoals boys
Miss Peggy and Miss Brenda
Beta Induction
Austin, Bobby and Chang at prasie band practice
Here are some pics from recent events
Jaden ready to go to graduation
The three Shoals boys
Miss Peggy and Miss Brenda
Beta Induction
Austin, Bobby and Chang at prasie band practice
Friday, May 8, 2009
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