BLESSED BY GOD

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

2012-01-04T22:01:00.002-06:00

JUST WANT TO SAY A SIMPLE HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE!!!! I KNOW GOD HAS LOTS OF BLESSINGS IN STORE FOR US AS WE BEGIN ANOTHER YEAR. I WAS TRULY BLESSED OVER THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS AS MY SWEET SON WAS HERE TO CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH US AND THE REST OF OUR FAMILY. HE LEFT TO GO BACK ON HIS TOUR WITH SOUTH PACIFIC ON MONDAY. I MISS HIM SO MUCH AND PRAY EVERY DAY THAT HE GETS CLOSER TO HIS DREAM OF PREFORMING ON BROADWAY.

RIGHT NOW I'M PREPARING MY HOME FOR A VISIT FROM MY OLDEST DAUGHTER AND HER TWO PRECIOUS GIRLS. I HAVE NOT SEE THEM SINCE JUNE OF LAST YEAR AND WHEN KIDS ARE LITTLE THEY SEEM TO GROW WAY TO FAST AND TIME GOES BY WAY TO QUICKLY. SO LOOKING FORWARD TO SPENDING TIME WITH THEM AND HAVING SOME MOTHER DAUGHTER TIME. AND SOME NANA TIME WITH MY SWEET GRAND GIRLS. WILL ALSO GET TO HAVE ALL MY GRAND KIDS TOGETHER AT SOME POINT. I CAN HARDLY WAIT. THE ANTICIPATION IS REALLY GETTING TO ME. BUT WHO CAN BLAME ME. I THINK GOD GIVES US GRAND KIDS TO SPOIL AND MAKE SPECIAL MEMORIES FOR US TO CHERISH.

WELL I PRAY THAT WE ALL MAKE THE BEST OF EACH MOMENT WE HAVE TOGETHER AND DON'T TAKE ONE MINUTE FOR GRANTED. HOPE EVERYONE IS TRULY BLESSED IN 2012.

FINISHING UP THANKSGIVING THANKFULNESS!!!!

2011-12-03T12:55:00.000-06:00

JUST THOUGHT I WOULD FINISH WHAT I AM THANKFUL FOR. I STARTED WITH MY HUSBAND AND THEN GOT BUSY PREPARING FOR THANKSGIVING.

I AM TRULY THANKFUL TO GOD FOR BLESSING ME WITH THREE WONDERFUL CHILDREN. THEY ARE EACH A TRUE JOY TO MY HEART. THEY ARE GROW NOW BUT STILL BLESS ME MORE THAN THEY MAY EVEN REALIZE.

I SMILE EVERY TIME I THINK OF EACH OF THEM BECAUSE THEY ARE TRULY A BLESSING AND I KNOW GOD PUT THEM IN MY LIFE AS BLESSINGS.

I AM ALSO THANKFUL GOD HAS BLESSED ME WITH FIVE BEAUTIFUL GRAND KIDS. FOUR SWEET BEAUTIFUL GIRLS AND ONE HANDSOME SWEET BOY. THEY ARE EACH SPECIAL TO ME AND I HAVE SO MUCH LOVE FOR EACH ONE OF THEM.

THE REST OF MY FAMILY I AM VERY THANKFUL FOR AS WELL. EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM ARE DEAR TO MY HEART.

I PRAY FOR EACH OF YOU AND HOPE YOU ARE AS BLESSED AS I AM KNOWING GOD IS IN CHARGE OF EACH STEP WE TAKE IN OUR LIVES AND GLAD YOU ARE ALL APART OF MY LIFE.

I LOVE YOU ALL AND THANKFUL WE ARE FAMILY.

THANKSGIVING A TIME TO BE THANKFUL!!!!

2011-11-20T09:46:00.001-06:00

I thought I would post what I am thankful for over the next several days since it is Thanksgiving week. I will have to say first I am thankful to God for blessing me with the most wonderful husband. Some people were concerned when we met and fell in love so quickly as we had only know each other for a very short time. Must be why I enjoy watching or reading stories about mail order brides. After 32 plus years of marriage you just have to know that God knew what he was doing when He put us together for the very first time. I still remember the day we met. We were both sitting at the student union at UMHB. I was studying and he must of just been watching me. He then started talking to me and said he had a rough night the night before. Things have not always been easy but with God right by our side we have gotten through so much more than I would have ever thought would be possible. I love you with all my heart and I am thankful every moment that God put us together.

NO TRICKS JUST TREATS I MADE

2011-10-31T06:57:00.000-05:00

I GOT THESE IDEAS FROM PINTEREST AND THEY TURNED OUT TO BE REALLY CUTE. I ALSO MADE PUMPKIN FUDGE. REALLY YUMMY!!!

KEEPING MY WORD THIS TIME!!!

2011-10-30T22:27:00.004-05:00

I HAVE BEEN MEANING TO BE MORE UP TO DATE ON MY BLOG SINCE ONE OF MY SWEET DAUGHTERS LIVES IN VA. SHE IS SO WONDERFUL ABOUT SHARING SPECIAL TIMES WITH HER FAMILY. I HOPE THIS HELPS KEEP HER MORE UP TO DATE WITH WHAT IS GOING ON HERE AT HOME. I STARTED OUT DECORATING EARLY THIS YEAR FOR FALL AND I AM SHARING PICTURES OF WHAT I DID. HOW DO YOU LIKE MY FANCY NEW DOOR? I REALLY LIKE IT ALOT AND IT REALLY ADDS TO THE HOUSE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE. I HOPE YOU ENJOY. I WILL TRY AND BLOG MORE OFTEN AND SHARE PICTURES WITH YOU.

MEMORIES OF 2010

2011-01-01T09:59:00.005-06:00

Funny how I really cannot recall what was happening or the changes that were to follow for the year of 2010 back in January 2010. I think what we hold in our memories the things that hit us dear to our hearts.
We had a bread new nephew Jack and were able to go and meet him the weekend he was born. What a sweet little fellow. I knew this year would be special because God was going to bless us with another grandchild with the help of Jennifer and Joe. I also remember wondering where Jessica and Scott would be heading to as they were planning for the future of their family and knowing they would not be close by truly saddened my heart but I also knew this would make their family what God had chosen them to do with His guidance.

February was bitter sweet because Jessica was moving to Virginia and I was wondering how often I would really get to see her and her family. I have had experience with Justin for the prior year as he has been in Ohio and we just don't get to see him often enough. I cannot express how much I miss my sweet son. We had a family get together prior to Jessica leaving and she had Annalise announce she was going to be a big sister. This was the bitter sweet moment because I knew it was going to be hard as it has been with Justin living out of Texas. God knows what He is doing but sometimes it is so hard when you have to make this kind of change in seeing your family as often as you want. Makes me appreciate the family I have here more but still miss the others so much.

March there was a big change in my job and I was moved to the main clinic and my job was specifically for coding. This I truly enjoy due to me getting my certification but there was alot of uncertainty about what was to come later in the year. Of course we had three birthdays this month to celebrate Justin, Jessica, and Shelby's special days. The first time I was not with Jessica for her day and the second time with Justin.

April was our 31st anniversary and first big trip. My husband and I took our first trip to Ohio so we could see Justin perform his recital which was wonderful. We got to see so many things on our way to Ohio and even stoped to try and find some diamonds at a Diamond Mine but we only found rocks. I think my husband really had alot of fun digging in the dirt. I did at first but got to hot so I went and found shade and watched him. We got a small tour of Justin's school campus and where the college students hang out. Pretty nice if you ask me. We stayed down town was a pretty nice hotel that was like a town house as we had a full kitchen living room and bedroom. Since we were on vacation I really did not use the kitchen but was nice to have for snacks and drinks. The first morning we were planning to go site seeing but that was brought to a hault due to a big parade to mark the beginning of the baseball season. I have never seen so many people at one time. We did get to do a little walking around down town which was an adventure in itself due to there were business people along with street people that you knew had problems when they were cussing out themselves as they were walking. We got to go to the biggest Macy's ever which happens to be one of our favorite stores to shop at. Just walked through no buying on this trip. I thought Justin could not get any better in performing and then we went to his recital. WoW he is one fantastic performer. I mean it not just because he is my son but because he is Good!!! I am one happy mom to see and be able to hear his progress. God has truly given him a talent with his music and I know he will be happy. After a few days in Ohio we went on to Virginia to visit Jessica, Scott and Annalise. It was so nice to see them and they took us on a little tour of the base and saw Scott's ship the SS Kersage. I did not realize it but Scott describes the ship as a city and by the size I see how that would is possible. I cannot imagine being on a ship for days and days with no land insight. We also got to see the beautiful beach. I hope we get to see it again when it is not so cold. Went to the zoo and had a super day as the weather was perfect for the zoo. I also got to go with Jessica to her doctor appointment.

May I really don't remember much about. I guess it is because we had so much in April we needed a month of normal. Found out Ashley was not doing well and tried to go visit her when I could.

June we began the anticipation of baby Logan's arrival as Jennifer was so getting so big and was not sure if she would make it until July. I believe this is also the month Ashley went to be with the Lord. She had autisum her whole life and died of a heart attact one morning. She was doing better but never really gained her strength back after complication from gallbladder surgery she was in the hospital for over a year trying to get her strength back.

July was the big surprise from Justin as he came home for a few days for the fourth of July. Best surprise I had in a long time. It was also the arrival of our first grandson Logan on July 21st. He had a little problem because even though he was full term his lungs were not so he had to spend 10 days in the NICU so as soon as we were able that is were we started getting to know our sweet grandson. We also celebrated my husbands birthday on July 31.

August we were thrilled that Logan was doing well and able to be home. Also noticing from pictures of Jessica's belly she was going to have a big baby. We also lost another family member this month who was also Ashley's grandmother. My step mom (Linda's) mother. It was such a sad time and so hard for Linda especially after losing Ashley two months prior.

September we celebrated Jennifer;s birthday. Also started getting a little nervous for Jessica as Scott had to leave earlier than planned to be out on the Ship for 6-9 months with no visits in between. I was greatly relieved when I found out that Jessica's in laws were heading to Virginia to be with Jessica to help her with Annalise and the upcoming birth of Elizabeth. I will be forever grateful they were able to be there as I was not able to get off work at this time due to job issues and uncertainty.

October Elizabeth was born October 15, 2010. Was so very proud of Jessica she is one strong woman. Also thankful everything was fine with Elizabeth. God is so good.

November still a trying month at work but finally decided I had to go to Virginia to see my daughter, Annalise and my new grandaughter Elizabeth. I requested to be off for 11 days starting December 1 to return on December 16. I finally got the approval and to my surprise my Dad insisted on paying for my trip as a birthday gift from him and Linda. I was so totally surprised and very grateful for their generosity. They were going to go with me then backed out due to not sure about visiting with Jessica just having a baby and all that goes with it did not want to make her feel overwhelmed.

December was my first trip to Virginia alone in a plane as Carol was not able to take any time off work after November 15. My Dad and Linda picked me up on December 1 and took me to the Airport in Austin. I had a stop in Chicago the on the Virginia. Once the plan landed I called Jessica and she was waiting for me outside. I was so overjoyed to see the girls and I will never forget the biggest smile I have ever seen on Annalise's face when she saw me. On the drive to Jessica's, Annalise was saying sometimes tears happen when you are happy and then she was whiping tears. So smart for such a young girl. We had such a wonderful time and I enjoyed being able to see Jessica's day to day life and truly enjoyed playing barbies with Annalise. Getting to know Elizabeth was such a treat she is one happy baby. I was even able to give Jessica a few breaks by staying with the girls while she went out a few times for groceries and errands. We had so much fun and enjoyed the time so much. Thank you Jessica for having me stay at your place and see you are doing just fine. I am so very proud of you as I cannot say I would be doing as well as you have done. A few days prior to me leaving Jessica's I fould out my sweet Granny was sick and had to have surgery. She had a really hard time but was doing better. First thing I wanted to do when I get back was to go see her. Early the morning I was leaving I got sick and was unsure if I was just nervous about leaving or if I was really sick I took two doses of immodium and seemed to feel a little better. Jessica took me to the airport at 7:30 and my plane lets at 9:05 headed to Flordia. I took a few plastic bags with me on the plan as my stomach was just not feeling right. I never thought I would get sick and throw up on a plane but yes I sure did and was glad I had the bags with me. I had a layover in Flordia of two hours but finally made it back to Austin and was pickup by my broher Steve and I was hoping the whole way home I would not get sick in his car. Got home and sick again and had to call into work on Thursday as was not able to make it. Went to the doctor to get a note since I was off the last 11 days of work and my boss told me there was a mandatory meeting at 10 am but my doctor said go home and rest note to be off the next two days. I have never in my life been off for so may days from work. Which I did even though I wish I could have made it to the meeting. Come to find out my job was being outsourced and we were given an oppertunity to have a job at a billing company. I was hired and hope and pray everything works out for all of us who were affected by this big change. After all this we still took time for Christmas as we went to Jennifer's Christmas Eve and spoiled the grandkids a little and enjoyed spending time with Jennifer and her sweet family. Went to my Dad's Christmas Evening for the traditional Wells gathering. Christmas Day was pretty quiet at the Vance house and then we went and spent the afternoon at my inlaws for the Vance Christmas. We enjoyed the time we spent with family. My last day was 123110 with KDC and it was so sad and in combination of working at the Eye Center I was at 15 years and now starting all over with a brand new job to begin 010311. Just very thankful I have a job as if the company did not want us I would not have a job. God truly blessed most of us but two people were not hired and it was so sad to see them go. I finally was able to go visit my sweet Granny. I pray God heals her so she will not feel so bad about having to have so much help with her everyday life.

Thoughts about the year:

With the big trip we took I realized God gave us new oppertunity to seen new places in His big beautiful world.

Thankful for Skype so I can actually see my family even when I cannot be there.

God still blesses us with family and we can make it work even with distance.

Don't take one minute for granted as it could be your last minute with that person.

We are not promised that changes will not happen in our lives. When God closes a door He opens another one for us.

We really have to put our trust in God to get us through all the good and bad things we have to deal with. I cannot imagine going through everything without Him.

Blessings for you and your family for 2011!!!

ELIZABETH GRACE OUR NEW GRANDBABY!!!!

2010-10-19T17:48:00.002-05:00

BORN 10/15/10 AT 12:22AM
8LBS 14 OZ 18 1/2 INCHES
THANK YOU GOD FOR THIS
WONDERFUL BLESSING!

MR CHEWY GOTTA LOVE THE EARS!!!

2010-07-17T21:21:00.006-05:00

WHAT IS UP HERE?

2010-07-10T09:09:00.002-05:00

IT HAS BEEN AWHILE SINCE I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO POST SO DECIDED TO GIVE YOU AN UPDATE. LIFE HAS BEEN VERY INTERESTING WITH WORK AND FAMILY. GOD HAS A WAY TO MAKE THINGS MORE PLEASANT.

FIRST OF ALL I HAVE AN AMAZING HUSBAND WHO UNDERSTANDS LIFE'S UPS AND DOWNS AND IS VERY SUPPORTIVE AND UNDERSTANDING OF WHEN I COME HOME AND JUST CRASH (EXAMPLE COME HOME PUT EVERYTHING DOWN BARELY SIT DOWN AND THE NEXT THING I KNOW I AM FAST ASLEEP). IT IS FUNNY BECAUSE THE OTHER NIGHT HE SAID I WAS SNORING SO LOUD HE DECIDED TO GO OUT AND MOW THE YARD BECAUSE HE WAS NOT ABLE TO REALLY HEAR THE TV. I DON'T REALLY KNOW WHY BUT THIS IS SUCH A PROBLEM AND I THINK IT IS THE REASON I AM SO TIRED EVERY DAY BECAUSE I WAKE MYSELF UP AT NIGHT. DON'T THINK HE DOESN'T SNORE BECAUSE I WAKE UP TO HIM SNORING ALSO. I THINK I HAVE HIM BEAT FROM WHAT HE TELLS ME.

AS YOU KNOW EVERY YEAR WE GO TO THE IN LAWS FOR A BARBECUE WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS. WELL LAST FRIDAY NIGHT I HEARD A THUMP AT THE DOOR. AND OUR USUAL RESPONSE IS IT IS ANOTHER BABY BIRD THAT HIT THE DOOR. IT HAPPENS ALL THE TIME SO WAS NOTHING NEW. BUT THEN IT SOUNDED A LITTLE DIFFERENT SO I GOT UP TO LOOK IN THE PEEP HOLE AND SAW NO ONE. BUT I THOUGHT MAYBE IT WAS A KID OR SOMETHING SO I OPENED THE DOOR TO LOOK OUT STEPPED OUT AND TO MY GREAT SURPRISE WHEN I LOOKED TOWARDS THE WINDOW TO SEE IF THERE WAS A BIRD OR SOMETHING THERE SITTING IN THE CHAIR WAS MY SON. I CAN REMEMBER JUST HUGGING HIM AND NOT WANTING TO LET GO OF HIM. HE REALLY DID GIVE ME SUCH A SURPRISE AND I COULD NOT ASK FOR ANYTHING BETTER FROM HIM. WE HAD A REALLY WONDERFUL VISIT. EVEN THOUGH WE WENT TO VISIT IN APRIL IT IS JUST TO LONG IN BETWEEN AND I REALLY MISS HIM ALOT. HE IS LEAVING FOR A TRIP TO ITALY AND WILL BE GONE FOR FIVE WEEKS BUT HE WILL BE DOING WHAT HE LOVES AS HE IS GOING WITH THE SCHOOL FOR A MUSIC FESTIVAL THAT HE WILL BE PLAYING IN. I SO WISH I COULD BE THERE BUT HOPE HE REMEMBERS TO TAKE ALOT OF PICTURES TO SHARE HIS EXPERIENCE. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND THANK YOU FOR BLESSING ME AND OUR FAMILY WITH YOUR SURPRISE VISIT. PLAY YOUR HEART OUT IN ITALY.

THE ONLY THING THAT WOULD HAVE MADE THE WEEKEND BETTER WOULD HAVE BEEN TO HAVE MY DAUGHTER SIL AND GRAND DAUGHTER HERE. THIS WAS OUR FIRST FOURTH OF JULY WITHOUT THEM. SO MANY FIRST WITHOUT THIS YEAR. SHE IS EXPECTING AND DID NOW WANT TO BE FAR FROM HER DOCTOR AND TRAVEL. WE MISS THEY ALL SO MUCH AND ENJOY EVERY TIME WE GET TO VISIT OR TALK TO THEM. I LOVE YOU ALL VERY MUCH AND LOOK FORWARD TO WHEN I GET TO SEE EACH OF YOU ESPECIALLY MY GRAND DAUGHTER. KEEP THE PICTURES COMING AS THE TRULY HELP KEEP US UP TO DATE ON WHAT IS GOING ON THERE.

FUNNY THING HAPPENED LAST WEEK AS MY HUBBY HAD MENTIONED HE WANTED TO GET A WIENER DOG. I REMEMBER ONE OF MY COWORKERS HAD MENTIONED SHE HAD A NINE WEEK OLD PUPPY SO NOW HE HAS HIS DOG AND I HAVE MINE. HE IS REALLY CUTE AND THE HUB NAMED HIM MR CHEWY. YOU GUESSED IT HE LOVES TO CHEW. VERY SMART FOR A PUPPY. I WILL POST PICTURES SOON.

NOW WE ARE WAITING A FEW MORE WEEKS FOR OUR FIRST GRANDSON'S BIRTH. I WAS BLESSED TO GO TO MY DAUGHTERS SONOGRAM AND SEE PICTURES OF HIM. HE HAS ALOT OF HAIR AND HIS WEIGHT IS NOW BETWEEN SIX TO SEVEN POUNDS PLUS OR MINUS. HE HAS HIS MOMMY'S NOSE FOR SURE BUT FROM WHAT I COULD SEE HE WILL FAVOR HIS DADDY AND LITTLE SISTER. I CAN'T WAIT TO HOLD HIM FOR THE FIRST TIME. PLEASE PRAY ALL GOES WELL FOR HER AND THE UPCOMING BIRTH.

I GUESS I HAVE GIVEN YOU A GOOD UPDATE FOR NOW. I GOT TO GO BECAUSE MY HUBBY IS MAKING BREAKFAST AND NO ONE WANTS TO MISS OUT ON HIS FAMOUS HASH BROWNS AND EGGS. THEY ARE THE BEST I HAVE EVER EATEN.

LOOKING FORWARD TO SOME FUN AT THE BEACH!!!

2010-05-25T23:44:00.002-05:00

It has been a really hard and stressful few weeks and can't wait to get away. I know this will be the perfect cure to all that work stress that I have had lately. On top of that I will be going with two of my dearest friends who I consider my sisters. We have made it a tradition to go once a year to the beach and relax and enjoy the sites. My hubby is so wonderful and has no problem letting me get away. I tell him he needs a get away week end for himself and hopefully he will be able to do that soon. I will miss some family adventures with my hubby's brother coming to visit but since this was planned way before I knew of his visit my sweet hubby said go on don't worry about it. It will give him a chance to catch up with the things that have been happening with our family. I will get a chance to spend some time with them when I get back and so looking forward to that. If your traveling over the holiday weekend be careful and have a wonderful time. One reason the Ocean is one of my favorite places to go is I feel it gives me some time with God that I really truly need. Don't get me wrong I have my time daily but there is something special about seeing the deep and wide OCEAN that makes me feel closer to God. Think about it how can you not believe there is a God when you see His beautiful world and all the nature that He created.

HOW I TURNED MY BAD WEEK TO A GOOD WEEK!

2010-04-25T10:37:00.005-05:00

This week started out bad on Monday because of my work. My boss decided at 12 noon he wanted us to go to four ten hour weeks and be off one day of the week. Sounds good but really does not work so well for my job. So after all was figured I end up getting to work four nine hour days and off Thursday morning for the simple fact that I could be needed at a meeting on Thursday afternoon or something. Any way I was trying to figure out how God wanted me to make this a more positive thing for me and my family. I realized this would be a perfect morning to go and visit my sweet Granny and to make it special for her I took my two grand daughters with me. I know in my heart that would make her day. We got there and she was asleep and my older grand daughter was not quite sure what to do. I told her that granny would be upset with me if we did not wake her for her special visit. She was so happy and I know God had a hand in this plan. I guess we really need to always stop and think of how we can turn something random into something wonderful. This happened for me and I know it was God's plan. I also know sometimes we need to take time out and spend with the little ones in our lives because it takes us back to simpler times and slows us down so we can enjoy that special moment that God already planned for us. Take time to give others a blessing this week you will not regret it.

HAPPY 31ST ANNIVERSARY TO MY HUBBY!

2010-04-12T18:27:00.004-05:00

JUST A QUICK BLOG TO SAY WHAT A WONDERFUL 31ST ANNIVERSARY I HAD WITH MY HUBBY OVER THIS LAST WEEK. WE TOOK A LONG VACATION TO VISIT MY SON IN OHIO AND WAS BLESSED TO BE ABLE TO ATTEND HIS SR RECITAL. WOW HE WAS FANTASTIC! WE GOT TO SEE HIS WORLD AND CAN I SAY IT IS SO VERY DIFFERENT FROM HERE. WE GOT TO SHARE A FEW MEALS WITH HIM BY THE CAMPUS BECAUSE HE WAS STILL HAVING TO ATTEND CLASSES SO WE JUST TOOK IT EASY AND RESTED. THEN WE HEADED TO OUR DAUGHTERS HOME IN VIRGINIA BEACH. WAS SO GLAD TO BE ABLE TO SEE HER NEW WORLD ALSO. SHE HAS A BEAUTIFUL HOME AND IS IN A REALLY GREAT LOCATION. MY GRANDDAUGHTER SEEMS TO BE VERY WELL ADJUSTED WHICH IS NO SURPRISE TO ME. MY DAUGHTER IS SUCH A GOOD MOMMY AND WIFE TO MY GREAT SON IN LAW. WE EVEN GOT TO SEE HIS SHIP. WE ALSO WENT TO THE BEACH IT IS BEAUTIFUL AND SO DIFFERENT FROM WHAT WE HAVE HERE IN TEXAS. IT HAS A BEAUTIFUL BOARDWALK AND IT IS STRANGE BECAUSE IT IS ONLY 10 MINUTES FROM MY DAUGHTERS HOUSE SEEMS LIKE YOU ARE GOING TO TOWN AND NOT THE BEACH. I WILL POST SOME PICTURES WHEN I GET THEM. I AM SO HAPPY WE GOT TO GO SEE EACH OF THE KIDS AND TO REALLY GET A TASTE OF WHERE THEY ARE IS TRULY A BLESSING TO ME.

GOD DOES ANSWER PRAYERS!!!

2010-03-13T10:17:00.004-06:00

JUST WANED TO SHARE ONE OF MY BLESSINGS FOR GOD WHO JUST TURNED 24 YESTERDAY. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND YOU ARE VERY SPECIAL TO ME.

I JUST LOVE SPRING!!!

2010-03-10T18:45:00.003-06:00

MARCH IS WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR AS SPRING WILL BE COMING SOON. IT IS ALSO A BLESSING BECAUSE GOD BLESSED US WITH OUR OLDEST DAUGHTER ON THE 20TH AND OUR YOUNGEST OUR ONLY SON ON THE 12TH. Also our first grandaughter on the 31th. We have one busy month and feel so blessed. Hope everyone have a great week and remember to enjoy the spring time with all of Gods beautiful blessings blooming all around us.

Pray for our family!!!!

2010-02-18T06:25:00.004-06:00

Three special ones in our family are moving to Virginia.

I know this is God's will but they will be truly missed. I look forward to stories from my sweet Annalise and of course my wonderful daughter and son in law.

Praying for each of you and asking all that read this to pray for them also. I love you all.

Hugs and kisses.

Love from MoM <3>

and NaNa <3>

and two coming <3>

FUNNY PICS

2010-01-08T18:43:00.008-06:00

LOOKING SO BORED WONDERING WHAT IS NEXT.

MAYBE IT WILL NOT BE SO BORING AFTER ALL. MY SON WAS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS AND I GUESS IT IS REALLY HARD TO BE HOME AFTER MOVING AWAY. HOPEFULLY HE WAS NOT AS BORED AS SOME OF THESE PICS LOOK. I MISS YOU SO MUCH AND LOOK FORWARD TO TALKING OR SEEING YOU AGAIN SOON. I LOVE YOU!!

SLUMBER PARTY AT NANA'S!!!!

2010-01-01T14:36:00.002-06:00

SINCE IT IS NANA'S HOUSE I ASKED WHAT THEY WANTED FOR BREAKFAST. THE ANSWER WAS A PEAR AND A PIECE OF TOAST. YUMMY!!!!

THEY TRIED TO DO THE SLUMBER PART TOGETHER WITH SANTA BUT DID NOT END UP SLEEPING HERE. ANNALISE WAS ON THE TODDLER BED AND SHELBY WAS IN THE GUEST ROOM. I ENDED UP SLEEPING WITH SHELBY HALF THE NIGHT. ANNALISE AND I ENDED UP AT THE ORIGINAL PLACE THE REST OF THE NIGHT. CRAZY GIRLS BUT I REALLY ENJOYED THIS AND LOOK FORWARD TO DOING THIS AGAIN SOON!!!

THIS PICTURE IS ONE AFTERNOON WHEN I WAS KEEPING THE GIRLS AND THEY WERE TRYING TO NAP. I DON'T THINK THEY EVER DID THOUGH. JUST TO MUCH FUN PLAYING AT NANA'S. GOTTA LOVE IT!!!!

More projects I've made

2009-12-31T20:38:00.002-06:00

I made the first 4 for a friend at work for her family for Christmas gifts. I felt honored that she asked me and they turned out really cute.

I made this one for my dear friend who really enjoys going to the beach as much as I do. It was a fun one for me to make and she loved it!!

A FEW THINGS I MADE DURING DECEMBER

2009-12-30T17:30:00.002-06:00

A few things for Jack for Sarah's surprise mini family shower.

I

I made this board for a friend of mine at work for her mothers birthday. I really liked it alot.

FROM BAD TO WONDERFUL!!!!

2009-12-29T21:32:00.008-06:00

I think I had way to many frozen banana's. My hubby was tired of my collection but sure enjoyed the end results!!! Yummy!!!! After all this baking I still have more to bake. Maybe New Years Eve............................
Lets seen now I have banana cake, banana bread, banana bunt cake now what?

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

2009-12-25T10:43:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! You all mean the world to me and I feel truly blessed by God every time I think of each of you.
Today is going to be wonderful as I have just put in a turkey breast and will make green bean casserole and mashed potatoes. My son and hubby and I will enjoy and then we will be heading to the movies for the new 3d movie (I just can't remember the name of it right now) to enjoy together. I have enjoyed spending time with him (my son) since he lives so far away it has been a delight to my heart to have him here.
I hope everyone enjoys their Christmas Day and don't forget "Jesus is the Reason" for this day that we celebrate by getting together with loved ones.
May God Bless you on this special day and continue to bless you in the New Year!!!

LOOKING FORWARD TO CHRISTMAS!!!

2009-12-05T20:49:00.002-06:00

Just want to say hi to everyone. It has been a busy few weeks. I am getting so excited as my wonderful son will be coming home. I will also be off for a week so we will get to spend some time together. Also my son in law will be home for Christmas and my daughter and granddaughter are looking forward to his arrival. Hoping we will get to spend time with everyone during this Christmas Season.

GOD HAS GIVEN US SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR!!!!

2009-11-18T21:07:00.002-06:00

I have been thinking alot lately about how thankful I am to God for all the many blessings he bestows on me and my family. Even when things are crazy and I don't always understand all the craziness we have in our lives. He is always right by my side guiding me through all of life's ups and downs. I have decided in the mist of all that is happening I'm going to think about all the blessings God has given me and let Him be my guide. I strongly feel that without God in my life I would have no purpose at all. I am truly grateful for all the special times I have with my family and would not trade one second of that time for anything else on this earth. I am looking forward to the holidays as all the family will be able to be together. For me I could not ask for a better gift than to spend time with each of my family. Thank you God for each and every one of them as they are a blessing to my heart.

I LOVE THE FALL!!!

2009-10-18T08:53:00.003-05:00

I THOUGHT I WOULD CHANGE MY BLOG LOOK TO MATCH ONE OF MY FAVORITE TIMES OF YEAR.

OUR FAMILY IS IN NEED OF YOUR PRAYERS. SO MANY THINGS GOING ON AND IT WOULD TAKE UP SO MUCH SPACE TO EXPLAIN HERE. JUST PLEASE KEEP MY FAMILY IN YOUR PRAYERS THAT GOD'S WILL SHALL BE DONE IN EACH AND EVERY SITUATION. I KNOW THAT GOD IS IN CONTROL AND HE KNOWS WHAT IS BEST FOR EACH OF US BUT, SOMETIMES IT IS SO HARD TO GRASP AND UNDERSTAND WHY SOME THINGS ARE HAPPENING. I AM TRULY THANKFUL THAT GOD IS ALWAYS THERE WITH US KEEPING US IN HIS REACH TO COMFORT US AND GIVE US PEACE EVEN WHEN THINGS ARE TOUGH. MY PRAYER IS GOD WILL TOUCH EACH OF US AND GIVE US COMFORT IN KNOWING HE WILL NEVER LEAVE US OR FORSAKE US!

HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A WONDERFUL FALL SEASON WITH LOTS OF BLESSINGS!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SON IN LAW!!!

2009-10-04T10:54:00.002-05:00

I THOUGHT I WOULD WISH MY OLDEST DAUGHTERS HUBBY A HAPPY BIRTHDAY! HE IS A WONDERFUL HUSBAND TO MY DAUGHTER AND GRANDAUGHTER. WE ARE TRULY BLESSED TO HAVE HIM IN OUR LIVES AS A SPECIAL PART OF OUR FAMILY. OF COURSE HE IS A GREAT SON IN LAW AND WE COULD NOT ASK FOR ANYONE BETTER. HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY.
LOTS OF LOVE FROM YOUR MIL. <3 <3 <3

TOUCHED MY HEART!!!

2009-09-13T10:33:00.004-05:00

I WANTED TO SHARE A NEW BLOGGER THAT HAS TRULY TOUCHED MY HEART. SEE THIS BLOG AND STORY http://greysonsgift.blogspot.com/ . MY DAUGHTER FOUND THIS SITE AND WE ARE BOTH GOING TO START ON THIS VERY SOON. AS YOU KNOW OUR FAMILY WAS TOUCHED BY THIS TWICE IN ONE YEAR AND WHAT A GREAT WAY TO HELP OTHERS IN THE SAME SITUATION IT IS TRULY A BLESSING THAT WE CAN DO SOMETHING TO HELP OTHERS DURING THIS SAD TIME. IT SHOWS HOW GOD WORKS IN OUR LIVES AND GIVES US A CHANCE TO HELP AND SHOW GODS LOVE TO OTHERS. YOU COULD ALSO THINK IT HELPS US WITH THE SADNESS WE WILL ALWAYS HAVE IN OUR HEARTS FOR THE LOSSES WE HAVE SHARED. I'M EVEN THINKING MAYBE WE CAN ALSO START SOMETHING HERE AT OUR LOCAL HOSPITAL.

BLOG SLACKER

2009-09-12T07:45:00.003-05:00

Well I have been a blog slacker lately. There has been quite a few family changes going on. All of you know what I'm talking about. I do not feel the need to go into detail at this point since everyone in the family knows all this already and you are the ones that read this post. I know one thing is for sure that God is in control of all our needs and concerns and we just sometimes need to stop and remember this. We all try and take control of things that we just really have no control over. In the long run we end up realizing God is always there and He is taking care of our every need and concern. Remember He knows what is best for us. We just have to stop and give all our cares and concerns (worries for some of us) to Him. We are given so many blessing but sometimes we forget the blessings out weigh our concerns. Or we hear about someone else who is so much worse off than we are. I think when this happens, God is really telling us everything is going to be fine. Praying for all of you!

A LAP FULL!!!!

2009-06-17T17:34:00.005-05:00

I'M BLESSED TO HAVE

3 WONDERFUL GRAND GIRLS THEY ARE VERY DEAR TO MY HEART AND I AM THANKFUL TO GOD FOR BLESSING OUR FAMILY.

GOD HAS BLESSED OUR FAMILY!!!

2009-05-17T22:48:00.005-05:00

GRACIE NICOLE GRIFFITH
BORN MAY 17, 2009
AT 7:27 PM
WEIGHT 7LBS 3 OZ'S
19 1/2 INCHES LONG

SHE IS ONE SPECIAL BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL!
I THANK GOD FOR THIS SPECIAL LITTLE MIRACLE.
MOMMY AND BABY ARE DOING WONDERFUL!
SEE MY DAUGHTERS BLOG FOR PICS.
THANK YOU TO EVERY ONE FOR THEIR PRAYERS!
MOST IMPORTANTLY THANK YOU GOD FOR BLESSING OUR FAMILY AGAIN.

THE WAIT IS ON AND ALMOST HERE!!!

2009-05-06T18:17:00.002-05:00

WE ARE ANTICIPATING THE BIRTH OF OUR NEXT GRANDDAUGHTER. MY MIDDLE DAUGHTER IS DUE TO BE INDUCED ON MONDAY. SHE HAS A DR APPOINTMENT TOMORROW TO CONFIRM THIS. PLEASE KEEP HER IN YOUR PRAYERS. I KNOW GOD IS IN CONTROL AND HE WILL MAKE THINGS HAPPEN IN HIS TIME. PRAY FOR PATIENCE FOR HER DURING THESE LAST FEW DAYS AND FOR THE DELIVERY PROCESS. WILL UPDATE YOU AS SOON AS I HAVE MORE INFORMATION.

WHAT A GREAT VACATION!!!!!

2009-04-12T22:41:00.007-05:00

WE HAD AN AMAZING VACATION AS WE DECIDED ON GOING TO ONE OF OUR FAVORITE PLACES PORT ARANSAS!!!! AT FIRST WE WERE JUST GONNA STAY HOME BUT THE WEATHER LOOKED LIKE IT WAS GOING TO BE GOOD.

WE LEFT WEDNESDAY MORNING AND STAYED AT THE HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS IT WAS ONLY A BLOCK OR SO FROM THE BEACH. THE ROOM WAS NICE BUT ONE THING WE REALLY ENJOYED WAS THE HOT TUB. THEY DID HAVE A SUMMING POOL BUT I WAS NOT READY FOR THE COLDNESS EVEN THOUGH THE HUBBY DOUBLE DOG DARED ME I JUST WAS NOT GOING TO GET IN AS IT WAS REALLY COLD. WELL THE NEXT DAY THE HUBBY TOOK A SHORT ENTRY AND GOT BACK INTO THE HOT TUB HE SAID IT WAS REALLY COLD BUT I DID DOUBLE DOG DARE HIM SO HE HAD TO SHOW ME UP. THIS WOULD BE A NICE PLACE TO STAY FOR A FAMILY AS NOT ONLY DID THEY HAVE THE POOL AND HOT TUB BUT A KIDDIE POOL WITH TWO FOUNTAINS IN IT. THEY ALSO SERVED HOT BREAKFAST WE HAD EGGS BACON BISCUITS WITH GRAVY COFFEE AND I ALSO HAD SOME YOGURT. IT WAS INCLUDED WITH THE PRICE OF OUR ROOM.

THE BEACH WAS JUST BEAUTIFUL AND AS YOU CAN SEE THERE WERE SHELLS TO BE FOUND. WE EVEN FOUND TWO GOOD SIZE SHELLS. I HAPPENED ACROSS A SNAKE THAT WAS ON THE BEACH. I HATE SNAKES BUT WAS INTRIGUED AS I HAVE NEVER SEEN ONE ON THE BEACH BEFORE. THURSDAY EVENING WE GOT DRESSED UP AND WENT AND HAD THE BIGGEST SHRIMP I HAVE EVER SEEN THIS WAS SERVED WITH FRIES. IT WAS REALLY GOOD AND WELL WORTH EVERY PENNY.

WE STOPPED IN GERINAMO AND FOUND THE HUBBY AN ON OLD RAZOR THE KIND YOU SEE IN THE OLD MOVIES IT WAS A STEAL. HE WAS REALLY EXCITED ABOUT FINDING THIS AS WE HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR ONE SINCE LAST NOVEMBER.

WELL AFTER NINE DAYS OF NO WORK TOMORROW WILL BE BACK TO WORK AS USUAL. SAY A PRAYER FOR ME AS I WILL HAVE ALOT TO CATCH UP ON.

OUR 30TH ANNIVERSARY!!!!

2009-04-06T20:17:00.003-05:00

TODAY IS MY HUBBY AND I 30TH ANNIVERSARY!!! I CAN SAY HE (MY HUBBY) IS STILL THE ONE FOR ME. FOR THOSE OF YOU THAT DON'T KNOW 30 YEARS AGO WE ELOPED AND WERE MARRIED AT THE BELL COUNTY COURTHOUSE. WE MET IN SEPTEMBER 1978 AT UMHB AND IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT.

I KNOW FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART GOD PUT US TOGETHER FOR A LIFETIME. I CANNOT EVER IMAGINE ANYONE BETTER FOR ME IN MY LIFETIME. LIKE I SAID BEFORE HE IS STILL THE ONE AND I LOVE HIM MORE THAN I DID THEN. I NEVER THOUGHT THAT COULD HAPPEN BUT GOD HAS BLESSED US WITH A BEAUTIFUL FAMILY AND WONDERFUL LIFE.

OUR CHILDREN BLESSED US WITH A CELEBRATION ON SUNDAY. IT WAS SO SWEET AND MEANT SO MUCH TO US THAT THEY WOULD MAKE THIS SO SPECIAL. THEY HAD A CAKE MADE WITH OUR PICTURE FROM BEFORE WE MARRIED AND ONE PICTURE FROM TODAY. IT WAS SO NEAT. THEY HAD OUR HOUSE DECORATED FOR THE OCCASION.

I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART FOR SUCH A WONDERFUL EVENT OF CELEBRATION TO EACH OF MY CHILDREN AND ALL MY FAMILY WHO CAME TO HELP US CELEBRATE. WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS ANNIVERSARY AS YOU EACH MADE IT SPECIAL FOR US. A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL WHO BROUGHT FOOD IT WAS ALL WONDERFUL!!!!

I HAVE TO MENTION HOW MUCH WE APPRECIATED JESSICA SCOTT AND JENNIFER FOR CLEANING UP AFTERWARDS. YOU GUYS ARE GREAT! ALSO FOR JUSTIN FOR MAKING IT HOME TO CELEBRATE WITH US!!

NOW YOU PROBABLY ARE WONDERING WHAT WERE ARE DOING FOR THE WEEK OFF. WE MADE RESERVATIONS THIS MORNING FOR PORT ARANSAS. WE ARE GOING TO LEAVE WEDNESDAY MORNING AND COME HOME FRIDAY LATE. WE JUST NEED TO GET AWAY. I CAN HARDLY WAIT AS THIS IS ONE PLACE WE ENJOY SPENDING TIME TOGETHER.

I ALSO WANT TO SAY I LOVE YOU TO MY HUBBY YOU ARE STILL THE ONE AND AGAIN I LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY OLDEST DAUGHTER!!!

2009-03-20T07:29:00.002-05:00

TODAY IS MY OLDEST DAUGHTERS BIRTHDAY AND SHE WILL TURN 29 AT EXACTLY 11:20 PM. THINKING BACK ON THE DAY I HAD PRIOR TO HER DELIVERY WAS FILLED WITH GREAT ANTICIPATION. I REMEMBER THE FIRST TIME I FINALLY GOT TO SEE HER. I WAS SO GROGGY FROM THE ANESTHESIA THAT I ACTUALLY ASK THE NURSE TO HELP ME HOLD HER BECAUSE I WAS AFRAID I WOULD DROP HER. KEEP IN MIND IT WAS AROUND 3AM AND I WAS LAYING IN A HOSPITAL BED. I KNEW SOMETHING HAD HAPPENED BECAUSE IT TOOK SO LONG FOR THE NURSE TO BRING HER TO ME SO I COULD SEE HER FOR THE FIRST TIME. WELL AS YOU ALL KNOW WHEN THEY CUT ME TO DELIVER HER BY C-SECTION THEY NICKED HER PRETTY LITTLE HEAD AND THEY HAD TO KEEP AN EYE ON HER FOR AWHILE. OF COURSE SHE WAS A HEALTHY BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL. I AM SO GLAD GOD HAS GIVE HER TO US AND SHE IS TRULY A BLESSING TO OUR FAMILY. I LOVE YOU AND WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY. ENJOY YOUR DAY BEFORE YOU TURN 29 TONIGHT.

NEWS FROM MY SON!!!

2009-03-20T07:25:00.002-05:00

LAST NIGHT MY SON CALLED AND TOLD ME HE WAS EXCEPTED AT EASTMAN SCHOOL OF MUSIC IN ROCHESTER NEW YORK. HE IS NOW WAITING TO SEE WHY KIND OF SCHOLARSHIP THEY WILL OFFER HIM. HE WILL BE MAKING THE BIG DECISION SOON. PLEASE KEEP HIM IN YOUR PRAYERS. I KNOW AS HE ALWAYS ENDS UP MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICES.

REALLY BEHIND ON BLOGGING!!??

2009-03-13T17:33:00.002-05:00

I WAS JUST LOOKING AT FAMILY BLOGS AND NOTICED IT HAS BEEN QUITE AWHILE SINCE I HAVE BLOGGED. TIME SLIPS BY SO FAST WITH THIS LIFE WE LIVE IN TODAY'S SOCIETY. YESTERDAY WAS A REMINDER TO ME OF THIS AS I REMEMBERED IT WAS MY SON'S 23RD BIRTHDAY. WOW I REMEMBER HOW BLESSED I FELT WHEN HE WAS FINALLY HERE. HE IS ONE AMAZING YOUNG MAN NOW AND I AM THANKFUL TO GOD EVERYDAY FOR GIVING US OUR SON. I REMEMBER BACK THINKING IS HAVING ANOTHER BABY SOMETHING GOD REALLY WANTED FOR US AND OUR FAMILY AFTER HAVING TWO BEAUTIFUL GIRLS... OF COURSE YOU KNOW THE ANSWER WAS DEFINITELY YES!!! BUT BEFORE THIS HAPPENED I DID ALOT OF PRAYING AND THE REST IS HISTORY. WELL I JUST WANTED TO SAY HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON WITH LOTS OF LOVE FROM MOM!!!

BEHIND ON BLOGGING OH MY

2009-01-28T09:40:00.002-06:00

I guess you can tell by the last time I blogged I have been pretty busy. I really don't like to be so behind but sometimes that is how life is. After my last blogg I was busy with keeping up with my MIL making sure they were ok and had made them dinners or purchased dinners for them to help them out while my MIL was getting better. I can say I know some of my efforts were not as good as others but at least I gave it my best try. I was also busy making homemade Christmas gifts for my family. I really enjoyed that alot! I made several homemade blankets and a few sequin calendars and I am currently still working on a few of those. Not sure who will be the lucky ones to get these but again this is something I really enjoy doing. Christmas was a little different for us this year as with the hubby working and one of my daughters working the holiday we had to wait and share our Christmas with our grown kids and grand girls after Christmas but all in all we still got together which is all that really matters to me anyway. This year we purchased each of the grand girls a play kitchen set. They really are at the age they enjoy pretending and are having lots of fun with their gift and I have had a chance to go and share in the fun with them. It was nice to have my son home for Christmas! He spent his time at home with us and at his grandma's as is the tradition for us to go to the in laws on Christmas day. We enjoyed the time and the food was wonderful as always. We were surprised as my SIL and BIL made alot of the traditional sweets my MIL usually makes. Let me tell you they did a great job and my BIL made the best cheese cake I have ever tasted. You know he could go in the business if he wanted to it was that good. We did get to spend New Years with my Dad and family and shared our Christmas that day. We even managed to have my son join us and he was also able to make it to my uncles for the traditional Christmas Eve for my sweet Granny and family. I know it has been a long time since all of us were able to be together and it was just a great time for everyone. I can truly say we are blessed with a wonderful family. I do have a bit of good news we found out my daughter is going to have another baby girl and things seem to be going well this time around but please keep her and that precious baby in your prayers for God to protect her and give her good reports each doctor visit. I know the baby is growing as I saw my daughter last night and notice her tummy is getting bigger!!! I know she goes to the doctor on Monday so pray for good progress. I have been sick since last Thursday and finally went to the doctor on Monday. I am not sure what I have but fear it has something to do with peanut butter. The Dr gave me an antibiotic and is running a test to see but have not heard yet. I have been off work and I'm suppose to go back tomorrow so please pray for me that I will have strength to get through the next few days as it is the end of month which is a very busy time at my job and I know I have several days of work to get finished by Friday.

GOODS NEWS AND BAD NEWS!!!!

2008-10-11T07:48:00.002-05:00

WELL THE GOOD NEWS IS I PASSED MY TEST AND NOW I AM A CPC (CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL CODER). SIGH OF RELIEF...............................

AS FOR THE BAD NEWS.........MY MIL HAD A STROKE AND SHE IS HOME AND DOING OK BUT SHE NEEDS SOME ASSISTANCE GETTING AROUND. WE WILL FIND OUT THIS WEEK THE RESULTS OF HER TEST. I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO KEEP UP WITH THEM THIS WEEK TO MAKE SURE THEY HAVE WHAT THEY NEED. MY FIL HAS HIS HANDS FULL JUST TAKING CARE OF MY MIL AND I FIGURED I WOULD MAKE SURE THEY HAVE A MEAL. FROM WHAT THE HUBBY SAYS ABOUT MY FIL COOKING I FIGURED I WOULD KEEP THE EVENING MEAL MY JOB FOR NOW. IF ANY OF YOU KNOW ANY FAVORITE MEALS PLEASE INFORM ME SO I CAN ADD THAT TO MY LIST. PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR THEM AS THIS IS A BIG CHANGE FOR THEM BOTH AND I SURE HOPE THINGS GET BETTER FOR THEM.

A LONG TIME COMING NOW WAITING AGAIN!!!!

2008-09-28T09:55:00.002-05:00

IT HAS BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I HAVE ACTUALLY HAD TIME TO BLOG. AS YOU KNOW I HAVE BEEN TAKING A CLASS TO BECOME A CPC (CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL CODER). IF I PASS I HAVE BEEN PROMISED A RAISE OF $1.00 PER HOUR. I HAVE BEEN STUDYING AND PREPARING FOR THIS TEST SINCE FEBRUARY. YESTERDAY WAS THE BIG DAY!!! LET ME TELL YOU IT WAS EXTREMELY HARD AND I WAS SO TIRED AFTER THIS FIVE AND A HALF HOURS OF TESTING. IT HAS BEEN A VERY VERY LONG TIME SINCE I HAVE HAD TO TAKE A TEST OF THIS EXTENT. I DON'T KNOW HOW WELL I DID AS I WAS SO FOCUSED ON MAKING SURE I COMPLETED THE TEST. YES I DID COMPLETE THE TEST WHICH SURPRISED ME. THERE WAS 150 QUESTIONS AND WE HAD TWO MINUTES FOR EACH QUESTION. THIS IS NOT ENOUGH TIME FOR ME ESPECIALLY WHEN THE QUESTION HAS ALOT OF INFORMATION TO REVIEW BEFORE YOU CAN ANSWER. I KNOW IN MY DAILY JOB I HAVE MORE TIME TO MAKE SURE I CHOOSE THE CORRECT ANSWER FOR CODING/POSTING AND APPEALING CHARGES BUT THIS WAS REALLY REALLY HARD. I'M JUST NOT USED TO CHOOSING FAST. THIS MAKES FOR MISTAKES IN MY BOOK. ALL I CAN SAY IS I DID THE BEST I COULD AND I SURE HOPE I DON'T HAVE TO RETAKE THE TEST. IF WE DON'T PASS WE HAVE ONE MORE CHANCE. I HAVE BEEN TOLD MOST PEOPLE HAVE TO RETAKE THIS TEST A SECOND. I DON'T WANT THAT TO BE ME. THIS HAS TAKEN UP ALOT OF MY LIFE AND TIME. I WOULD LIKE TO MOVE ON TO SOMETHING MORE ENJOYABLE. LIKE MAKING MY CHRISTMAS GIFTS AS THERE IS ONLY ABOUT THREE MONTHS LEFT. I HAVE TO WAIT FOUR TO SIX WEEKS TO GET MY TEST RESULTS BACK. I HATE WAITING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A DECISION HAS BEEN MADE!!!

2008-04-15T21:29:00.002-05:00

JUST WANTED TO UPDATE EVERYBODY ON JUSTIN. AFTER ALOT OF THOUGHT PROCESS JUSTIN HAS DECIDED TO GO TO EASTMAN SCHOOL OF MUSIC IN NY. WE ARE VERY PROUD OF HIM AND ANTICIPATE GREAT THINGS AHEAD FOR HIM. GOSH ONLY A SHORT FEW WEEKS AWAY AND HE WILL GRADUATE FROM BAYLOR. THIS IS SOMETHING I KNEW HE WOULD DO. I HAVE NO DOUBT HE WILL CONTINUE HIS EDUCATION AND HAVE A WONDERFUL CAREER. I STILL NEED PRAYERS FOR HIM AND OUR FAMILY. NY IS ALONG WAY OFF FROM HOME AND WE WILL NEED TO BEGIN MAKING PLANS FOR FUTURE VISITS. WHICH MIGHT I ADD WILL INCLUDE ME TAKING A PLANE TRIP. YEKS!!!!!!!!!!! FOR A PERSON WHO IS EXTREMELY AFRAID OF HEIGHTS IT WILL BE A BIG CHALLENGE. I DO KNOW THAT IF THAT IS THE ONLY WAY I WILL BE ABLE TO SEE MY SON GOD WILL GIVE ME THE COURAGE TO OVERCOME THIS FEAR.

JUSTIN'S TRYOUT IN INDIANA!!!

2008-02-29T18:33:00.001-06:00

JUST AN UPDATE JUSTIN HAS HIS LAST TRYOUT TO DETERMINE WHERE HE WILL GET HIS MASTERS TOMORROW. KEEP HIM IN YOUR PRAYERS AS HE MAKES THIS VERY IMPORTANT DECISION.

JUST FOUND OUT LAST NIGHT............

2008-02-21T20:19:00.001-06:00

JUSTIN ALSO TRYING OUT IN MICHIGAN ON SATURDAY!!!! BUSY ONE!!!

JUSTIN'S SECOND JOURNEY!

2008-02-20T06:54:00.003-06:00

JUST WANTED TO GIVE YOU AN UPDATE ON JUSTIN'S JOURNEY TO SEEK AND FUTHER HIS EDUCATION FOR HIS MASTERS DEGREE. THURSDAY HE WILL TRAVEL TO NEW YORK AND HAVE HIS TRY OUT AT EASTMAN!!! PLEASE KEEP HIM IN YOUR PRAYERS FOR SAFE TRAVEL AND A GOOD TRY OUT EXPERIENCE.

BTW: I MADE AN 83 (MISSED 3 OUT OF 18) ON MY TEST LAST NIGHT! YEAH! IT WAS OF COURSE OVER SOMETHING I DID NOT STUDY FOR. I DID STUDY FOR HOURS BUT THAT IS HOW IT ALWAYS IS. I APPRECIATE YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS ON MY JOURNEY WITH WORK AND THIS MEDICAL CODING CLASS.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!!

2008-02-13T17:44:00.001-06:00

I JUST WANTED TO WISH YOU (MY WONDERFUL FAMILY) A HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TOMORROW!!! I LOVE EACH OF YOU VERY MUCH!!!

WHAT IS GOING ON IN MY LIFE???

2008-02-10T11:58:00.001-06:00

I THOUGHT I WOULD GIVE YOU AN UPDATE ON WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH ME. THIS PAST THURSDAY, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY I WAS BLESSED TO HAVE BEEN ABLE TO GO TO THE WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE IN SAN ANTONIO WITH ON OF MY DEAR FRIENDS FROM WORK. FIRST I WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY THAT I'M THANKFUL MY HUBBY GAVE ME THE BLESSING TO ATTEND. WHAT A WONDERFUL MAN HE IS AND BTW I LOVE HIM MORE AND MORE EACH DAY NO MATTER WHAT. AT THE CONFERENCE THURSDAY NIGHT WAS THE FIRST TIME I REMEMBER HEARING NICHOLE JOHNSON SHE IS THE CUTIES LADY BY FAR AND VERY GIFTED BY GOD WITH HER FUNNY SKITS THAT SHE HERSELF WRITES. I HAVE HEAD MARK SCHULTZ SING BUT THIS IS ONE WONDERFUL MAN OF GOD. HIS NEW CD BROKEN AND BEAUTIFUL WILL BE ONE OF MY NEXT PURCHASES. IT IS FILLED WITH TRUE STORIES ONE THAT HE TOLD THAT MADE ME BAWL LIKE A BABY WAS THE SONG HE WROTE ABOUT "WALKING HER HOME" WHICH WAS AN EMOTIONAL TALE OF A COUPLES RELATIONSHIP FROM THEIR FIRST DATE UNTIL THE WIFE IS CALLED HOME TO HEAVEN. THEN SHEILA WALSH WHO IS SO CUTE WITH HER ACCIENT SHE MADE YOU REALIZE "YOU ARE LOVED BY GOD JUST AS YOU ARE" THIS IS SO VERY TRUE BUT SOMETIMES WE ALL NEED A REMINDER. THEN SANDI PATTY CAME ON LAST WITH HER BEAUTIFUL VOICE. WE ALL KNOW SHE IS JUST AS HUMAN AS WE ALL ARE AND HAS MADE MISTAKES JUST LIKE SOME OF US DO AND BY GODS GRACE SHE AND WE ARE ALL FORGIVEN FOR OUR SINS. FUNNY I HAVE NEVER BEEN WHERE SOMEONE WAS PROTESTING ANYONE (JUST SAW ON TV) BUT THERE WAS A MAN SPEAKING OUT AGANIST SANDI PATTY FOR HER ADULTERY. YES SHE DID COMMIT ADULTERY BUT WE ARE NOT THE JUDGE OF HER SIN AND THAT IS BETWEEN GOD AND HER. I'M THANKFUL GOD IS A FORGIVING GOD AS YOU ALL KNOW HE WAS THE ONLY SINLESS MAN ON EARTH. FRIDAY MORNING THE FIRST SPEAKER WAS ANITA RENFROE. SHE IS SO VERY FUNNY AND SANG "WILLIAM TELL MOMISMS" (AKA "THE MOM SONG"). I LAUGHED UNTIL I CRIED SHE WAS JUST SAYING WHAT WE ALL SAY ABOUT LIFE. THEN THERE WAS PATSY CLAIRMONT WHO I HAVE HEARD BEFORE AND SHE IS JUST WONDERFULL AND SPEAKS OUT ABOUT OUR FEELINGS. SHE IS THIS LITTLE PINT SIZE WOMAN AND SHE TELLS US "YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO FEELS THAT YOU HAVE MORE MOOD SWINGS THAT BRAIN CELLS AND MORE HORMONES THAN HALLELUJAHS. TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND POP A DARK-CHOCOLATE BON-BON ; WE GIRLS ARE IN THS TOGETHER." I TRULY ENJOYED HER! THEN WE MET JIM CAVIEZEL WHO PROTRAYED "THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST". I HAVE NOT SEEN THIS MOVIE AS I JUST KNOW IN MY HEART HOW DEEPLY IT HURTS ME WITHOUT SEEING THIS I KNOW THE SUFFERING JESUS WENT THROUGH IS MORE THAN I CAN BARE TO SEE. BUT JIM DID BEAR SOME REAL SUFFERING DURING THE MAKING OF THIS FILE. THIS LEAD HIM TO A DEEPER RELATIONSHIP WIHT JESUS. I TRULY BELIEVE HE IS A GENUINE CHRISTIAN MAN AND HE TOLD US "WE WERE ALL BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTERS OF GOD". I TRULY ENJOYED HIM AND KNOW HE IS TRUE TO HIS CALLING. THELMA WELLS SHE SPENDS HER TIME HELPING PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD LEARN TO BEE THEIR BEST. THIS IS SOMETHING I STRIVE FOR IN MY LIVE IN ALL AREAS. THEN WE WERE BLESSED TO HEAR MANDISA. YOU ALL KNOW SHE WAS ON AMERICAN IDOL SEASON FIVE. SHE HAS SUCH A BEAUTIFUL VOICE AND LOVE FOR GOD AND KNOW SHE DID NOT MAKE IT ON AMERICAN IDOL SO THAT SHE COULD USE HER VOICE TO PRAISE GOD WITH HER SINGING. THEN MARILYN MEBERG WHO I HAVE HEARD BEFORE IS A WOMAN WHO SPEAKS OF REAL LIFE EXPERIENCES AND WHAT A BLESSING SHE WAS. FRIDAY NIGHT I ATTENDED A CONCERT AND SAW FOR THE FIRST TIME MAX LACUADO WHO I DID NOT KNOW IS ALSO A PREACHER IN SAN ANTONIO. I ALWAYS KNEW HE WROTE GREAT CHILDRENS BOOKS AND ADULT AS WELL. HE IS WONDERFUL. SINGING WAS MANDISA SANDI PATTY AND MICHAEL W SMITH (MY FAVORITE NEXT TO MARK SCHULTZ). SATURDAY MET SQUIRE RUSHNELL WHO WAS FORMER VP OF FAMILY PROGRAMS FOR ABC WAS A FATHER OF THE ACCLAIMED "SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK" AND ABC "AFTER SCHOOL SPECIALS. HE HAS A BOOK CALLED "WHEN GOD WINKS AT YOU" THIS IS ABOUT TRUE STORIES THAT HIGHLIGHT HOW GOD MAKES INCREDIBLE THINGS HAPPEN IN OUR LIVES EVERY SINGLE DAY. REMINDED ME OF THE TIME I MET MY HUBBY (I WAS NOT LOOKING FOR A BOYFRIEND OR MARRIAGE OR EVEN A DATE) BUT GOD HAD ANOTHER IDEA FOR ME. SQUIRE IS MARRIED TO LOUISE DUART WHO IS AN IMPRESSIONIST. CAROL BURNETT IS ONE OF MANY SHE DOES VERY WELL SHE IS FUNNY. THEN WE MET SHERRI SHEPPARD WHO YOU ALL MAY HAVE SEEN ON THE VIEW. SHE SHARED HOW SHE CAME TO BE ON THE VIEW. WHAT AN AMAZING LIFE SHE HAS HAD. OUR LAST SPEAKER WAS LUCI SWINDOLL I HAVE ALSO HEARD HER BEFORE. SHE IS FUNNY AND A WONDERFUL SPEAKE AS WELL. HERE IS MY THOUGHT FOR NEXT TIME............GET READY GIRLS AND START SAVING AS I TRULY FEEL MY TWO DAUGHTERS MY WONDERFUL MOTHER IN LAW AND HER DAUTHER WOULD JUST LOVE GOING TO THIS EVENT. SO START SAVING NOW!!!! I WILL LET YOU KNOW WHEN THE NEXT EVENT IS . I CAN SAY FOR ME IT WAS WELL WORTH THE MONEY I SPENT!!!

WHAT'S NEXT ON MY LIST??? TODAY I HOPE TO SPEND TIME WITH MY HUBBY SEE MY GRAND GIRLS AND FAMILY. THEN IT WILL BE BACK TO WORK ON MONDAY. ALSO A LITTLE STUDY TIME FOR THE CLASS I'M TAKING FOR WORK TO BECOME A CERTIFIED CODER. PLEASE PRAY FOR ME FOR THIS ENDEAVER. I DON'T KNOW WHERE THIS WILL BE TAKING ME BUT THIS IS ONE TOUGH CLASS AND A VERY HARD TEST REQUIRED TO BECOME CERTIFIED.

ANOTHER REQUEST IS FOR YOU ALL TO PRAY FOR MY SON. HE IS GOING TO BE GRADUATING BAYLOR IN MAY AND HAS ALOT ON HIS PLATE TO DEAL WITH IN HIS LIFE. I KNOW GOD WILL LEAD HIM IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

JUSTIN'S FIRST TRY OUT USC

2008-01-26T12:17:00.000-06:00

I JUST TALKED TO JUSTIN AND IT IS 10:15 AM CALIFORNIA TIME HIS TRY OUT IS AT 10:45 AND HE IS READY TO GO. HE SAID MOST OF THE ONE'S TRYING OUT ARE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND ARE PLAYING MOSTLY THE SAME PIECE. HE IS THE ONLY ONE TRYING AS GRAD STUDENT. HE WILL BE GREAT FOR THE JUDGES TO HEAR AS HE WILL BE PLAYING A DIFFERENT PIECE. HE SAID HE WAS NOT NERVOUS. I KNOW HE WILL DO JUST FINE. PLEASE KEEP HIM IN YOUR PRAYERS AS HE HAS 3 MORE TRYOUTS IN THE NEXT MONTH AND HOPEFULLY GOD WILL LEAD HIM TO THE BEST SCHOOL FOR HIM. PRAY FOR HIS TRAVEL SAFETY AS WELL. I WILL UPDATE YOU ONCE I HEAR FROM HIM AGAIN.

BY THE WAY THE CHRISTMAS PICS WOULD NOT LOAD SO I JUST GAVE UP WILL SHARE THE PICS WITH YOU ALL ONCE I GET A COPY MADE OF THEM.

WHAT HAPPENED TO CHRISTMAS?

2008-01-17T17:39:00.000-06:00

I GUESS YOU CAN TELL I'VE BEEN BEHIND IN MY BLOG. HERE ARE A FEW PICS FROM SPECIAL TIMES DURING CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. I HAVE A FOND MEMORY OF MY GRANNY AND SPENDING TIME WITH ME IN HER KITCHEN SO THIS YEAR I DECIDED (EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE YOUNG) I WOULD START A TRADITION OF BAKING AND DECORATING WITH THE GRAND GIRLS (AND FUTURE GRANDCHILDREN). OF COURSE I NEEDED A LITTLE HELP FROM THE MOMS FOR SOME OF THE FUN. I ACTUALLY MADE SNOW MAN CAKES AND CUPCAKES AND SUGAR CHRISTMAS COOKIES PRIOR TO THEIR ARRIVAL. NOW FOR THE DECORATIONS I GATHERED ALL THE SPRINKLES I COULD FIND EVEN MY SON IN LAW PITCHED IN AND LOANED ME SOME OF HIS SUPPLY OF SPRINKLES. I ALSO PURCHASED A COUPLE PACKAGES OF SKITTLES AND SEPARATED THEM BY COLOR TO DECORATE THE LARGE SNOWMAN CAKES. FOR THE COOKIES I MADE MY OWN FROSTING WHICH WAS MADE WITH POWDERED SUGAR . I USED FOOD COLORING AND MADE BLUE YELLOW RED AND GREEN. ANNALISE ENJOYED THE SPRINKLES AND THEN ENJOYED COOKIES AND MOM EVEN LET HER HAVE A FROSTED ONE WHICH SHE ENDED UP SMEARING ON ME. TRULY ENJOYED EVERY MOMENT WITH HER. SHELBY CAME LATER AND SHE LIKED THE SPRINKLES BUT THE SKITTLES THAT WAS HER FUN AFTER OF COURSE HER TAKING A FEW TO ENJOY ON HER OWN. SHE HAD A GREAT TIME DECORATING. I KNOW NEXT YEAR SHE WILL HAVE TONS MORE FUN AND SO WILL I WITH BOTH OF THE GIRLS. ENJOY THE PICTURES.

MORE GOOD NEWS FOR JUSTIN

2007-11-26T18:30:00.000-06:00

Today Justin called to see if Temple College was open as he was unable to get anyone to answer. Well he came down to get his transcripts. They told him they do not usually just hand them over but he persuaded them as it was that important that he get them to send out for the schools he is trying for with his applications for his Masters Degree. University of LA, Eastman in NY, Michigan and Indiana. His professor of Sax informed him that the Dean requested that he play at the graduation. Actually they want him to play all his instruments. You all know Justin was excited! Again we are all very proud of you!!! There is no doubt we will be hearing his name across the states one day very soon.

THANKSGIVING FEELINGS OF FAMILY

2007-11-22T07:33:00.000-06:00

"OUR FAMILY IS A CIRCLE OF LOVE AND STRENGTH.
WITH EVERY BIRTH AND EVERY UNION, THE CIRCLE GROWS.
EVERY JOY SHARED ADDS MORE LOVE.
EVERY OBSTACLE FACED TOGETHER MAKES THE CIRCLE STRONGER."

UNKNOWN

I LOVE YOU ALL HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

JUSTIN REACHED IMPORTANT GOAL!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-18T11:52:00.001-06:00

Yesterday Justin had his final try out for the concerto, we tried to get all the family to attend. Some were sick or unable but we did surprise Justin with his Grandma. Being in the concerto means he would be the guest featured performer during a concert. His dream come true! He has tried every year at Baylor and this was his last shot. He played Concerto for Saxophone and Orchestra by Paul Creston. He did a wonderful job actually fantastic! He is so amazing and God has truly given him a gift with his talent. Oh course all of you already know he made it. He was first place out of several players that tried out. I am not sure how many but the one's I heard were very good players. Will let everyone know when the concert will be as soon as we find out. Justin said when they announced the winner he noticed his sax professor shed a few tears as did all of us that were there with him. I'm sure this was a great feeling for his professor as well. WE ARE ALL VERY VERY PROUD OF YOU JUSTIN!!!! YOU DID IT!!!!!! :o)

MORE CATCHING UP SUPRISE FOR JUSTIN

2007-11-18T11:39:00.001-06:00

Justin had a concert last week and it is rare that my hubby can make it due to work. I know he is very proud of the opportunity to have a chance to hear Justin play in concert. He is such an awesome player!!! We really enjoy going and hearing him perform.

CATCHING UP

2007-11-18T11:30:00.000-06:00

I have been behind on my blog just so busy. I wanted to share a few pictures from Halloween I thought you might enjoy.

ANNALISE'S FIRST SLEEP OVER!!!!

2007-10-30T21:37:00.000-05:00

WHAT A WONDERFUL TIME WE HAD WITH ANNALISE!! WE HAD LOTS OF FUN JUST PLAYING EATING BATHING BRUSHING HER TEETH AND EVEN PUTTING HER TO BED!! SHE SLEPT ALL NIGHT!! WAS JUST AMAZING HOW EASY SHE WAS AND HOW MUCH MY HUBBY AND I ENJOYED SPENDING TIME WITH HER. SORRY FOR SO MANY PICTURES BUT I WANTED TO SHARE IN OUR TIME OF FUN!!! THANK YOU JESSICA AND SCOTT FOR BLESSING US WITH THIS TIME OF FUN AND ENJOYMENT! HEY BY THE WAY WHEN CAN WE DO THIS AGAIN?

WEEKEND TRIP TO PORT ARANSAS TEXAS

2007-10-02T22:27:00.000-05:00

My hubby was so wonderful he let me escape for the weekend with some friends from work. This was a long needed trip for me. I really have had so much going on in my life it was the best thing I have done for myself in a really long time. I thought you might enjoy some of the pictures of me and two of my good work friends. We escaped to St Jo's Island on Saturday and just relaxed. Many thanks to my friends for spending a great weekend and of course to my hubby for letting me go.

SHELBY AND ANNALISE PLAYING TOGETHER!!!

2007-09-15T23:12:00.000-05:00

THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THE GIRLS PLAYED TOGETHER. THEY WERE GREAT AND I HAD SO MUCH FUN WATCHING THEM!

OUR FIRST VISITORS!!!

2007-09-15T23:09:00.001-05:00

IT FINALLY HAPPENED!!!!

2007-09-15T22:47:00.000-05:00

YOU GUESSED IT!!! WE SIGN FOR OUR NEW HOUSE ON 8/28/07. HAVE BEEN EXTREMELY BUSY WITH THE MOVE. STILL HAVE ALOT OF UNPACKING TO DO. JUST TAKING ONE DAY AT A TIME. I LOVE IT AND I'M STILL IN SHOCK OVER THE REALITY. GOD HAS TRULY BLESSED US. SORRY MY CAMERA WAS DROPPED SO SOME PICTURES MAY BE DUPLICATE.

Been Busy!!!!

2007-08-12T22:11:00.000-05:00

Well this will be the fourth time our house has sold. Hopefully this will be the final time. It was amazing. Friday evening our realtor called and said they had someone wanted to come and look at the house. Later we got a call and were told it sold. Saturday we signed the paperwork and actually have a closing date of 8/23. This was really good news. We also have a closing date on our new house 8/28. Everyone say your prayers for us. I will keep you posted on what happens.

Exciting news for Justin!!! On Saturday he was approved for 2007 Nisan Centra 2.0Z. It is loaded and only had one previous owner. Two weeks is all they had it. He is so excited and loves it.

Please keep Shelby (our granddaughter) in your prayers. She has reflux which goes from her bladder back to her kidneys more on the left than the right one. She is on antibiotics for a year. Then they will check and see if it has improved.

Well the hubby is ready to get to his game so more later. Love to all of you and hope you have a wonderful week.

JUST A QUICK REQUEST

2007-07-18T05:59:00.000-05:00

HI TO ALL OF YOU. I JUST WANTED TO ASK YOU TO KEEP US IN YOUR PRAYERS. THERE IS ALOT OF THINGS GOING ON AND IT IS EXTREMELY STRESSFUL FOR US RIGHT NOW. I KNOW THAT GOD HAS GREAT PLANS FOR US BUT IT IS REALLY CRAZY RIGHT NOW. I APPRECIATE ALL OF YOU AND YOUR PRAYERS. I HOPE BY NEXT WEEKEND TO WRITE TO YOU ABOUT NEW ADVENTURES IN OUR LIVES. LOVE TO ALL OF YOU.

Some Bad News!

2007-06-27T09:25:00.000-05:00

My son called me Monday and said he had some really bad news. I had no idea what he was going to tell me. He found out thru a friend from Cleburne that my hubby and I's very dear friend had passed away in his sleep on Sunday. This is the friend that he (hubby) went with him to Nebraska to get his kids when his exwife took off with them. I knew he was not doing well but had no idea how he was doing recently. We saw him last year when his daughter graduated from high school. Our hearts are broken for his dear sweet family and we are still in shock. Due to our daughter being in the hospital we will not be able to make it to the services. This is also very hard but I know they will understand. You just can't take for granted any moment in your life. You should live as if it was your last day. Hubby and I are very grateful for having the chance to have such a great friend. The great thing is that he is now in Heaven with his father who he truly missed and his mother. Please keep his family in your prayers as this will be a difficult time for them. I would like for you to also pray for my family as there is so much we are going through right now. I know it will all be fine but just need the extra prayers. Well I'm heading to the hospital to spend time with my daughter. Will try and keep you posted once I know how she is doing as they did not give her medications she normally takes and made her stay up until 3am last night. Not sure why but will find out today. If I haven't told all of you before I truly am blessed to have all of you in my life and I love you all dearly. Blessings to you today and always.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

2007-05-13T09:18:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to wish all the special mothers I know a very happy mothers day! This includes my MIL, First born daughter, 2nd born daughter and my Step mother. You are all wonderful people and super mothers. I'm so proud of my daughters and want them to know they are wonderful mothers and I'm very proud of them both. My MIL is and always will be a very special person in my life and has been the best MIL anyone could ask for. My Step mother is also a wonderful person and has shown me how to step in and be a wonderful person and mother no matter what life gives you. I love you all and am glad you are a part of my life. God has truly blessed me with each and everyone of you. HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL OF YOU!

NEWS FLASH!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-04-25T06:33:00.000-05:00

We received a call from my son regarding an award program he was told to go to. He just figured it was for the Dean's list again.

When they called him up it was announced he made
"PERFORMER OF THE YEAR"
FOR BAYLOR UNIVERSITY!

We are all extremely happy and very very very proud of him as this is a very high honor for him and he was up aganist grad students for this award.

Great job SON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! God has truly blessed us with you in our lives and again we are very proud of you!

Justin's Recital Pictures

2007-04-21T23:03:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful recital Justin had today! God has truly given him his talent. He amazes me every time I get a chance to hear him play and I am so very proud of him!! Check out my SIL's blog to get a small viedo of him playing. Was also nice to hear him sing with his fraternity. They sounded fantastic. Sorry for the colors of some of the pictures but the lighting was not great. I also wanted to thank again my MIL she was a great help to me today. She is an amazing woman and I am truly blessed to have her in my life. Justin again what a great performace!!

ITS SNOWING!!!!!

2007-04-07T15:22:00.000-05:00

We got a surprise today with SNOW!!! This turns us all into kids. We had a little snow fight and took time to take a few pictures. Enjoy!!

28 YEARS OF HAPPINESS WITH MY BEST FRIEND!!!!

2007-04-06T08:33:00.000-05:00

Today is a special day for hubby and I as it is our 28th anniversary. We have truly been blessed in our marriage and we love each other more today than we did when we first met. We have shared lots of ups and downs but have always stuck together. For those of you that may wonder how, always remember your vows and the commitment you made together when you married. Thur sickness and health richer or poorer we are and will always be together. Shina Twain sings a song "Looks Like We Made It", this is truly a song for us as some did not think we would make it but we are living proof that we have and will continue to. I would insert a wedding picture but the scanner is packed up so just sharing one of the hubby who is my best friend. I Love you! Happy Anniversary!

LOOK HOW THE GRANDBABIES HAVE GROWN!!

2007-04-02T09:50:00.000-05:00

It is such a blessing in the mist of some difficult situations to take time and spend with the grand babies. My little Sweet Pea turned 1 on Saturday March 31. Gosh she is getting so big and busy! My little Sweet Heart recently turned 3 months old (March 21) and is already rolling over and trying to crawl. These are some on my favorite times besides spending time with my hubby and family. The hubby and I are on vacation this week and are still packing things up so we have less clutter. It makes a much nicer look for those that come and look at the house. Oh if some of you did not know we are in the process of selling our house and moving. This will truly be a blessing in itself. I appreciate all your prayers regarding this situation. Also we are moving my middle daughter and granddaughter into our home. Doing what we can to help her in her time of need. Please pray for our family at this very time as we have lots of concerns and really need those prayers. Will try to keep you posted on the house situation as things come about.

WONDERFULL WEEKEND!!!

2007-03-06T07:20:00.000-06:00

The garage sale was sucessful. We made over $400.00. This was worth the time we put into it. Total between my daughters and I was $800.00. That says we had too much stuff. My oldest daughter and her hubby treated us to dinner that evening at a local cafe. They make the best homecooked meals. Thank you again for a wonderful meal and letting us have the garagesale at your house. My inlaws are also giving us another chance to sell our stuff we had left when they have their garage sale. They should do great as well. Thank you to my inlaws for letting us put our stuff in with theirs. ON Sunday my mother in law treated us to homecooking. We had fried fish red potatoes cloe slaw and cobbler. It was wonderfull! Thank you for the great meal we really enjoyed it. Keep me in your prayers as work is getting really stressfull! Lots of meetings etc. Talk to all of y0u soon!

BUSY WEEKEND COMING UP!

2007-03-01T23:20:00.000-06:00

Hubby and I have been busy working on pricing garage sale items. Gosh we have way to much stuff. We have really gone through our home and weeded out alot. We are having a one day garage sale at my oldest daughters house on Saturday. Once hubby takes the load over we finished up tonight my daughter will have a full garage. My son is suppose to come home tomorrow evening and go through his stuff so we will have even more stuff to get rid of. Been thinking of you all and hoping you have a wonderful weekend. Many blessings to you all, hope to see you soon.

WHAT A FIND!

2007-02-05T18:36:00.000-06:00

Last Friday we went up to Waco as Justin was in need of some groceries. Carol wanted to make his bean and sausage soup and the saugage was a a great price. Of couse we figured out it was labeled with the incorrect weight. HEB has a store policy that whatever price is marked is what you pay. I remember one time we got cheese that was marked $0 and that is what we paid zero. That was about 5 plus years ago. Anyway I thought it was a really good deal that Carol found. Justin got a few extras because of our savings on this item. He also had a concert Friday that was just fantastic as always. His band left for a 3 day tour on Sunday first place was Houston. Not sure where else but I know this is up his alley! I'm so proud of him as again he made the deans list. GREAT JOB JUSTIN! I better go for now and get dinner.

Been Busy!

2007-02-01T20:07:00.000-06:00

I have been so busy lately. Last week was one of those weeks you just want to hide in bed for a long winter nap. Actually I think it was two weeks ago. Yes I got the bug but I'm fine now. I was blessed this past weekend as Shelby came for an overnight visit. I picked her up on my way home from work. We went by Target (which is a better place to shop here than Walmart) as I needed to get a few things. Of course grandma found Shelby a small ball to play with. She loves that ball. I tried to show her how to roll the ball but she would just smile and hand the ball back to me and wait for me to roll it back to her. She was also very glad to see grandpa. Saturday morning Jessica called and wanted to come over and bring Annalise. Was I ever excited both babies at the same time. It was wonderful! Poor Jessica really needed a change of scenery. Shelby just loves Annalise and Jessica kissed Annalise on the hand and Shelby copied her. It was so sweet I loved to see the interaction between them. I even got to watch Annalise while Jessica went to the store. Jessica even got a well needed nap during her visit. I look forward to more visits. Monday of this week I had to go to Dallas for an insurance coding seminar. We left around 3pm and spent the night in Irving then got up and went to Dallas for the seminar. It was a great seminar and I got lots of good information. There was 10 of us and it was nice to get out of the office for a change. It gave us a chance to relax. Today I took Jennifer to take Shelby to the doctor. Yeah she has the virus and was not able to hold anything down. We found out that Shelby was throwing up because she was so thirsty she would just suck down the pedialite and it was just going in to quickly. She has to give her a syringe at a time every 5 minutes until she can hold it down better. Jennifer told me late this afternoon she was sleeping alot today I told her that is how her body heals. Hopefully she will be back to herself soon. I hope all of you are well and I will see or talk to you soon.

Being a Grandparent

2007-01-15T08:52:00.000-06:00

I was just thinking about how I remember my own grandparents. If I could have a wish it would be that I would be as good of a grandparent as my own Granny Wells. She is such a blessing to me in my life and I know without her who knows what kind of a person I would have become. You see I truly believe you are molded by those you are brought up around. Let me just tell you I have spent more hours with my Granny than I can even tell you. Of course she always made sure we went to church. This was of utmost importance to her and of course my grandpa.

Thinking back I remember how I always wanted to have children and could hardly wait for the day this would be a part of my life. I love all of my 3 children and words just would not be enough to explain how deeply my love for them is. Each one of them is a blessing from God. I grew up with two brothers and I was in the middle so of course I was able to get attention from each side of my family as I was the first granddaughter. I now know how my granny must have felt when I was born.

When I found out my second daughter was going to have a baby I was overjoyed. Then when I first saw Shelby ("Sweet Pea") I felt a new love that was so different than when I had my children. When my first born daughter found out she was going to have a baby again I was overjoyed. When I first saw Annalise ("Little Sweet Heart") I felt that same love and my heart again was truly blessed. I cannot wait from the last time to the next time I get the chance to see these two blessings that God has given to our family. One of the ladies where I work say I sure have the biggest smile on my face when they see me with Shelby. My daughter has noticed this also. I can say that both of them put a smile on my face and great joy in my heart. I look forward to all the times I will get to spend with each one of them. I will truly enjoy every second I get.

Update on Annalise

2007-01-03T20:32:00.000-06:00

Annalise is now home with mom and dad. She is on a home monitor and is doing great. Mom and Dad are tired after a long day of waiting for the doctor to ok for Annalise to go home. Please keep them in your prayers.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2007-01-01T09:37:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to wish you a new year filled with blessings from God. This to most of us is like looking forward to new beginnings. I ask that all of you keep Jessica, Scott and Annalise in your prayers as they had to put Annalise back in the hospital. She was not keeping her temperature as she should. From what I have read and understand this is something that occurs in premature babies. I know she will be fine it is just hard on mom & dad.

Blessings of Christmas!

2006-12-25T22:45:00.000-06:00

We are now celebrating answered prayers as my daughter & SIL finally get to hold our precious granddaughter at 3 days old (which was on Christmas Eve). What a joy to my heart to see my daughter and SIL smile with pride and joy. We were able to go and see Annalise today Christmas Day. She is just beautiful if I say so myself. I can't wait to hold her but we will have to wait for now. We were also blessed to have Shelby at our home on Christmas morning! What a joy that was. She puts a smile on my face and as you can see she enjoyed looking over the presents and the tree. She actually ended up taking off that decoration.

Update on Baby Annalise

2006-12-24T23:43:00.000-06:00

Good news for our family. Mom & Dad finally get to hold their precious bundle of joy. She is improving and is breathing mostly on her own. Mom told me they have even fed her through one of the tubes today. Mom is doing fine and we are all praying still for improvements. Please keep on praying for them.

God has blessed us with a new Grandaughter

2006-12-22T23:09:00.000-06:00

Thursday December 21, 2006.

Annalise Faith Sackreiter

5lbs 10 ozs 18 1/2 inches

Mom is doing fine baby just needs a little help since she was born a little over 4 weeks early she is our 2nd grandaughter this year. What a blessing God has given our family. I know she will get strong with each minute of each hour of each day. Please keep baby and mom and dad in your prayers. They are doing a wonderful job of handling all that has come their way. I love them all and I know God has wonderful plans for thier lives.

Shelby's First Christmas Party & Present

2006-12-19T21:34:00.000-06:00

Saturday Carol and I were invited to a Christmas party at Shelby's Great Aunts house (my SIL family). We started out with introductions of family members there was even family from Pampa Texas. They sure had a long trip. I remember when we lived in Borger Texas which is 30 minutes from Pampa. Then we ate Ham, scallop potatoes, green bean casserole, chips and cheese dip, and of course sweets. All the kids gathered and the Christmas story was read. Then it was time for the kids to get their presents. This was Shelby's first gift. Of course the first thing was to put the paper in the mouth. Once she saw there was something more than the paper it was down to serious business. Look at her concentration. She is definately part Vance look at her natural music ability. Looks like Uncle Justin will be able to begin the music lessons soon. She may even want to start her composing early. I'm very glad I was able to share this time. I can't wait for our time with Shelby on Christmas evening!

I THINK WE ARE READY FOR CHRISTMAS!!

2006-12-19T06:36:00.001-06:00

I thought I would share a few pictures. I hope every one is
ready for Christmas as there is only 6 days of shopping left.
Oh gosh... maybe I'm not done yet. Happy shopping to all!

Today was my 47th Birthday!!

2006-12-15T23:10:00.001-06:00

Ok family be patient with me as I have gotten a year older. Actually my daughter (Miracle33106) is the one that really got me interested in this blog. I have no idea how this will look later LOL but you gotta start somewhere.
My heart has been touched by two special people in my life with their sweet notes on their blogs see (Miracle33106 my daughter& look at my garden upside down my wonderful MIL). Thank you for blessing me today with your heartfelt words.
I have to go back to Saturday as that is when my first gift was received from my oldest daughter Jessica who gave me a nice shirt which I love. She was the lucky one who got to go clothes shopping with me the prior week. What a big help she was to me she went looking while I tried on clothes and would bring me more things to try on and go back for more. Talk about your personal attendant. You were wonderful and I thank you for your help and of course for the pretty shirt. Sunday I went to Jennifers and she gave me a manicure kit. It has a pink shimmery case very pretty. Thank you Jennifer now where is my pedicure/manicure from you????? Monday I was at a meeting at work and my name was drawn for good deeds and I got a square white coffee cup cookies peppermints and a mini egg beater. Ok this was not really a birthday gift but I still count it as part of (as my Jennifer says) my week of Birthday. Tuesday I received a birthday card in the mail from my Dad and Linda with a gift card to Macy's. Yes Jennifer you can go and help me this time. I think I tired Jessica out on the last trip. Wednesday I had a surprise Birthday party at work. No it was not my real Birthday but they decided since we were having our Christmas office party on my real Birthday that it would be better to make my day seperate. Gosh this was very special to me as usually everyone is busy planning for Christmas but to go beyond and do a party...........nice very nice. On top of all the girls in my department giving me gifts which I did not expect they also treated me to lunch. I am very blessed to work with this group of ladies. Thanks Rebecca I know you were the one behind all this. Rebecca is my very special friend. I am blessed to have her in my life. Thursday I received a birthday card from yes you guessed it the Auto insurance company all of them signed the card personally. As they should as we have had the same policy since I have been married. Today I again went to work with now Birthday and Christmas gifts. All these presents in one week talk about being stimulated with excitement. Then I received a call from my son in law who is Miracle33106 husband. He was so sweet with birthday wishes. Thanks for remembering. Then Jennifer called to say happy Birthday, later called me and said to look at her blog today. Thanks for making me run out of tissue. Justin called me and said he did not forget about me and wanted to wish me Happy Birthday. Jennifer later came to my office with flowers and of course my little Sweet Pea. After work after my hubby and I did a little shopping he took me out to eat at Red Lobster. YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!! I should not eat for a week after all I've eaten this week. Oh yea.....while doing some shopping Jessica called to see how my day went. She was so tired probably still from the shopping the prior week. Acutally she told me it was all the Christmas programs that she has had to do with her job. She is a elementary school music teacher and her coworker is also expecting and will deliver Monday by c-section. Jessica will be on her own then until school lets out. YOu better rest up this weekend Jessica.
Well I thank you all for making my Birthday special! I love you all. I still have to figure out how to put my picture on here later as I'm tired.